NewMusicMatters

I Break Horses @ Mercury Lounge May 30

noreply@blogger.com (JaneJS) — Thu, 31 May 2012 19:16:00 +0000

Mercury Lounge was sold out for the I Break Horses show last night, and I was looking forward to seeing this indie synth duo in person. Maria Lindén and Fredrik Balck hail from Stockholm, Sweden but have been opening up for M83 lately, so the large crowd seemed as ready as I was to check them out live. I chose their song "Heart" for my Fall 2011 Playlist, with its wash of synths and dreamy swirls of vocals. It's also the title track of their debut release.

It turns out the show was delayed because Lindén was backstage "throwing up all over the dressing room," as she later explained when the band finally took the stage at 11:30. (They were slated for an hour earlier and things were ready to go at least a half hour before.) She told the crowd that she was "not feeling well at all today." I imagine that was quite the understatement. The band began with the song "Heart" with an overzealous volume and lackluster lighting casting a pall over the performance. My camera wasn't getting anything and I knew videos were out of the question, plus the music was punishing at those sound levels. After the third song, I turned around and grabbed my date Paul who was as happy to leave as I was.

Early Summer 2012 New Music Playlist

noreply@blogger.com (JaneJS) — Thu, 24 May 2012 13:51:00 +0000

To most people, the Memorial Day weekend is the start of summer so why not explore some new music for your own personal soundtrack. With a mix of recent arrivals and established artists, releases abound for the listening to heat things up. Notes are provided with background info for further discovery.

1. “Disparate Youth” – Santigold

This solid single is off Santigold’s second album, Master of My Make Believe. With a mix of reggae, jazz and new wave influences, she continues to forge her own distinctive pop path.

2. “Happy Home” – Onuinu

Onuinu is the musical project of Portland multi-instrumentalist Dorian Duvall, combining an electro pop past into a new genre he likes to call “Disco-Hop.” This shimmering romp of a song is off his upcoming full-length debut, Mirror Gazer.

3. “Heaven” – The Walkmen

The Walkmen are ready to release album number seven after a decade together – this title track highlights their unique sound, featuring Hamilton Leithauser’s passionate vocals over a steadfast foundation. The band members are now living in New York City, Philadelphia and New Orleans, but still present an unwavering united front for indie rock fans.

4. “Bad for Me” – Brendan Benson

This tuneful song is the single off Benson’s sixth album, What Kind of World, which was recorded entirely in analog. In the middle of a busy career as a musician, songwriter and band member of The Racounteurs, he now also has his own record label called Readymade Records.

5. “Good as New” – Vacationer

6. “Trip” – Vacationer

These groove-based songs bring a feel good summer attitude via the new chill wave band Vacationer, embracing all things sunny and cool in the debut release, Gone. Listeners may recognize Kenny Valosi’s fun time vocals from his punk pop band, The Starting Line.

7. “Warbeth” – The Magnetic North

This U.K. band is an alt music collaboration between Simon Tong (Gorillaz, The Verve), folk artist Erland Cooper and prolific Irish songstress Hannah Peel. “Warbeth” is a mesmerizing multi-part composition off their debut album, Orkney: Symphony of The Magnetic North.

8. “Act On Impulse” – We Were Promised Jetpacks

We Were Promised Jetpacks is a quartet from Edinburgh, Scotland, generating buzz with their take on indie rock. This building jam is off their second release, In the Pit of the Stomach.

9. “Alpine” – Hands

This single from Australian band Hands will be featured on their upcoming full-length release. Six band members combine to create quirky songs with Scandinavian sounding indie pop sensibilities.

10. “Heart” – Oberhofer

Founder and frontman Brad Oberhofer moved East from Tacoma, Washington to study music at New York University and now his band is based in Brooklyn. He writes and records all the music himself, gathering a tour band to support this second release, Time Capsule II.

11. “Montauk” – Rufus Wainwright

American-Canadian singer/songwriter Rufus Wainwright recently released another album of intensely personal songs featuring his signature tenor and virtuosic piano playing. (He has seven albums of original music, ten if you count compilations and other contributions). This one, called Out of the Game, focuses on his new stage of life finding the wonder in marriage and fatherhood.

12. “Higher Palms” – My Best Fiend

This Brooklyn based quintet embraces the psychedelic ways of fuzzy indie pop. Singer Fred Coldwell provides spaced out renditions of melodic vocals for this single and lead track on their second release, In Ghostlike Fading.

13. “Hey Jane” – Spiritualized

14. “So Long You Pretty Thing” – Spiritualized

Jason Pierce (a.k.a. J. Spaceman) has had a tough seven years battling health problems such as double pneumonia and going through chemo for liver disease. So it’s no surprise that the new release for his U.K. band, So Long You Pretty Thing, is full of soul searching songs contemplating the highs and lows of human existence.

15. “Saint Nothing” – Daniel Rossen

This quiet, solemn song is off Daniel Rossen’s solo EP, Silent Hour. Rossen is originally from Los Angeles, traveling east to study at New York University and then becoming part of the indie bands Department of Eagles and Grizzly Bear.

Caveman @ Brooklyn Museum May 17

noreply@blogger.com (JaneJS) — Fri, 18 May 2012 17:02:00 +0000

Caveman at The Brooklyn Museum

I like to arrive early to concerts. Maybe it's because I used to perform as a dancer and in back high school musicals, arriving before things get going just feels right. That way I can get a sense of the space, the crowd and even the band as it's setting up. I had just seen Caveman at Crossing Brooklyn Ferry killing it on the big stage so it was going to be quite a comparison at a smaller venue. The band was going through their sound check as I arrived at the Brooklyn Museum. I even got to chat a bit with the band before they headed for the green room and a tray of Brooklyn Lagers. I had thought the Audiophile program would be in the auditorium where I saw Moby do an acoustic set and interview last May, but this year's music series was right in the entry pavilion. So while the bands played (NewVillager was on the bill first), a constant wave of people and traffic pulsed behind the stage. It was almost like footage on a scrim used by many a band on larger, more traditional venues.

Frontman/singer Matt Iwanusa

Here's some photos and a video from the night -- PopMatters write up here!

Reflection of the band on the ceiling

Caveman "Decide" @ Brooklyn Museum 5/17/12

Spiritualized "Live In Concert" via NPR Music

noreply@blogger.com (JaneJS) — Tue, 15 May 2012 15:04:00 +0000

NPR Music has posted a recent concert of Spiritualized as an entire listening session along with a six "featured videos." The concert was recorded last week at the Washington D.C. venue 9:30 club (named for its original address of 930 F Street NW during the 80s, now located at 815 V Street NW). In my book it’s a perfect mid-sized space to see a show, with a standing only capacity of 1200. Sure it's not the same as being there, but I welcome these fly on the wall opportunities to check out a band's performance style. Looking at the footage, you not only witness the nuances in the songs presented and how they vary from the produced tracks, but also the interactions of various band members, even if it's just on your computer screen. The audio stream provides the entire show, over two hours of live music to indulge in right at home or in work if such things are allowed.

Here the theatrics of a psychedelic light show cut across the blackened stage with frontman Jason Pierce (a.k.a. J. Spaceman) and his back up singers all dressed in white. Pierce’s voice is raw and gravely, as he plays guitar while standing behind a mike stand in black sunglasses. While there may not be much movement by those on stage, waves of emotion pour out in the music. Most of the set list are from Pierce’s latest release, Sweet Heart Sweet Light, a personal collection of alt rock anthems full of triumph as well as serious songs revealing doubts about our limited time on earth. I have two tracks already picked out for my next playlist... stay tuned.

Link to NPR Music’s “Live in Concert” page here.

SET LIST:

"Hey Jane"
"Lord Let It Rain On Me"
"Headin' for the Top Now"
"Walkin' with Jesus"
"Oh Baby"
"Rated X"
"Born Never Asked"
"Electric Mainline"
"Soul on Fire"
"I Am What I Am" *
"Ladies and Gentlemen We Are Floating in Space" *
"Mary"
"Stay with Me" *
"So Long You Pretty Thing" *
"She Kissed Me (And It Felt Like a Hit)" *
"Come Together" *
"Cop Shoot Cop"

* featured video

New Passion Pit Single "Take A Walk"

noreply@blogger.com (JaneJS) — Fri, 11 May 2012 17:32:00 +0000

Passion Pit @ Moogfest 10/30/11 (Photos: Paul Seymour)

This week Passion Pit released a single off their much anticipated sophomore album Gossamer called "Take a Walk." Paul and I got a sneak preview at last fall's Moogfest show, during a very cold night on the Animoog Playground (basically a parking lot with a stage and food/merch tents, offical PopMatters review here). Singer/frontman Michael Angelakos was actually sweetly concerned about the crowd's well being, but as you can see by the photos there was plenty of body heat to keep us warm. "Take A Walk" announces the band with a synth chord intro and then it's classic Passion Pit with a driving dance beat and sing along chorus. Angelakos told New York Magazine's Vulture that this time around "there is more a dichotomy between the lyrics and the music. The lyrics on this album have a lot to say about what the last two years of my life have been troubled with." To drive home the point, their website provides the lyrics along with a free download for the listener (also provided below).

TAKE A WALK

ALL THESE KINDS OF PLACES MAKE IT SEEM LIKE IT'S BEEN AGES
TOMORROW SOME NEW BUILDING WILL SCRAPE THE SKY
I LOVE THIS COUNTRY DEARLY
I CAN FEEL THE LADDER CLEARLY
BUT I NEVER THOUGHT I'D BE ALONE TO TRY
ONCE I WAS OUTSIDE PENN STATION SELLING RED AND WHITE CARNATIONS
WE WERE STILL ALONE MY WIFE AND I
BEFORE WE MARRIED SAVED MY MONEY
BROUGHT MY DEAR WIFE OVER
NOW I WORK TO BRING MY FAMILY STATESIDE

BUT OFF THE BOAT THEY STAYED AWHILE THEN SCATTERED ACROSS THE COAST
ONCE A YEAR I'LL SEE THEM FOR A WEEK OR SO AT MOST

I TOOK A WALK

PRACTICE ISN'T PERFECT BUT THE MARKET CUTS THE LOSS
I REMIND MYSELF THAT TIMES COULD BE MUCH WORSE
MY WIFE WON'T ASK ME QUESTIONS
THERE'S NOT SO MUCH TO ASK
AND SHE'LL NEVER FLAUNT AROUND AN EMPTY PURSE
ONCE MY MOTHER IN LAW CAME JUST TO STAY A COUPLE NIGHTS
THEN DECIDED SHE WOULD STAY THE REST OF HER LIFE
I WATCH MY LITTLE CHILDREN PLAY SOME BOARD GAME IN THE KITCHEN
AND I SIT AND PRAY THEY NEVER FEEL MY STRIFE

BUT THEN MY PARTNER CALLED TO SAY THE PENSION FUNDS WERE GONE
HE MADE SOME BAD INVESTMENTS NOW THE ACCOUNTS ARE OVERDRAWN

I TOOK A WALK

HONEY, IT'S YOUR SON
I THINK I BORROWED JUST TOO MUCH WE HAD TAXES
WE HAD BILLS, WE HAD A LIFESTYLE TO FRONT AND TONIGHT I SWEAR I'LL COME HOME AND WE'LL MAKE LOVE LIKE WE'RE YOUNG AND TOMORROW YOU'LL COOK DINNER FOR THE NEIGHBORS AND THEIR KIDS WE CAN RIP APART THOSE SOCIALISTS AND ALL THEIR DAMN TAXES BUT SEE I AM NO CRIMINAL
I'M DOWN ON BOTH BAD KNEES I'M JUST TOO MUCH A COWARD
TO ADMIT WHEN I'M IN NEED

I TOOK A WALK.

PopMatters Review for Crossing Brooklyn Ferry May 5

noreply@blogger.com (JaneJS) — Thu, 10 May 2012 14:16:00 +0000

My review for the last day of Crossing Brooklyn Ferry is posted on PopMatters today -- all I can say on behalf of all indie music fans is well done Dessners! Article at link here with photos and highlight video (also below).

Crossing Brooklyn Ferry Highlights @ BAM 5/5/12

PopMatters Review for Crossing Brooklyn Ferry May 3

noreply@blogger.com (JaneJS) — Tue, 08 May 2012 17:11:00 +0000

My PopMatters review for day one of Crossing Brooklyn Ferry posted today at the link here with photos and highlight video below, enjoy!

Crossing Brooklyn Ferry Highlights @ BAM 5/5/12

BAM's Crossing Brooklyn Ferry Closing Night May 5

noreply@blogger.com (JaneJS) — Mon, 07 May 2012 00:36:00 +0000

We were lucky enough to be going back to BAM for the third and final night of Crossing Brooklyn Ferry on Saturday, May 5. As I was picking up our tickets, a woman at the next box office window was spelling out the last name D-E-S-S-N-E-R. Seconds later, Aaron Desssner clamly walked through the lobby with an aborable baby in a carrier on his chest. And then, going up to the BAMcafé, I quickly spotted Bryce Dessner in the crowd.

It was clearly their production, from start to finish. How rewarding it must be to have the whole thing go so well, as staff and participants alike seemed more a tuned to how things would proceed upon my return after opening night. The BAMcafé was busy at an early hour on Saturday, with a performance by the Brooklyn Youth Chorus. (It reminded me of how George Balanchine took to casting children in his beloved ballet The Nutcracker simply to sell seats.) But this being a project of Bryce Dessner, it all made sense. He even joined the group on guitar as they presented his lyrical choral composition, "To the Sea."

Me & Matt Iwanusa of Caveman

Things quickly heated up with Caveman scheduled for the opening slot over in Opera House. I missed seeing this band during last fall's CMJ festival, but didn't fret over it after reading a not so flattering review about a lackluster performance style. I loved last year's debut release Coco Beware, playing it many times all the way through (what a concept!) But they really brought it to the big stage with a nice mix of songs. Sometimes bands can look awkward or a bit lost on such a grand stage, but the guys sounded great and looked like they were having fun which is always such a plus. Although I was seated near the stage, I ran down to the pit for their final tune "Old Friend" to dance along. In fact, it became my favorite set of the festival -- even with such stellar headliners such as The Walkmen and Beirut, I just personally like Caveman's brand of indie music better.

Next up was My Brightest Diamond with yMusic in tow, followed by Atlas Sound and the headliners Beirut in what seemed very quick succession. While Beirut ended on a mellow note with an encore featuring singer/songwriter Zach Condon alone on acoustic guitar, the party continued in the BAMcafé with a dj set by Pat Mahoney and Nancy Whang of DFA (and formerly LCD Soundsystem). On the way up the escalator, we spotted singer Matt Iwanusa of Caveman talking his way into the line. It seems he and his buddies had just gone to use a bathroom and when they returned there was a long line. Once upstairs, we joked how we were going to say they were with us if the deal didn't go through. Matt was openly generous to us as fans and thanked me for telling how much I liked his band's set, new and old songs alike.

Later as we were leaving after a stint on the dance floor, I was interested to see if we had missed the "super moon" spectacular. A small group of guys outside on the side of the entrance caught my attention instead, especially the stylin' plaid jacket I recognized as the one worn by Caveman's guitarist Jimmy Carbonetti (turns out a friend of his designs such things). He was hanging with two other members of the band and as we've started a serious of photos of Paul with fellow bass players, we went over to introduce ourselves. As the guys chatted guitars (Carbonneiti has his own shop on Orchard Street called Cobra Guitars), I looked up at the sky. It turned out that clouds had obscured the vision so we hadn't missed a thing.

Paul with (left to right) Jimmy Carbonetti, Stephan Marolachalus, & bass player Jeff Berrall

Caveman "A Country's King of Dreams" @ Crossing Brooklyn Ferry, BAM 5/5/12

Atlas Sound "Te Amo" @ Crossing Brooklyn Ferry, BAM 5/5/12

Beirut "Elephant Gun" @ Crossing Brooklyn Ferry BAM 5/5/12

Beirut set list

BAM's Crossing Brooklyn Ferry, Opening Night May 3

noreply@blogger.com (JaneJS) — Fri, 04 May 2012 19:36:00 +0000

With Paul in the BAMcafé

Last night was the first night of Crossing Brooklyn Ferry, a new music festival at the Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM). BAM has hosted many single concerts before, but to have the entire main building taken over by like-minded indie music fans was something definitely different. As curated by Aaron and Bryce Dessner of The National, Crossing Brooklyn Ferry (named after the Walt Whitman poem) celebrated all the connections the brothers have made since leaving Ohio to make Brooklyn their home (handy New York Times graphic here). As the first act began in the BAMcafé, the intense JACK Quartet, Bryce Dessner sat in the crowd with his head tilted in concentration. Aaron Dessner soon entered the venue and stood at attention in the back. Without any official declaration, their musical concept became a reality. Just off tour with Bon Iver, yMusic took the stage next and then the room filled with people as the rows of chairs were removed for People Get Ready. This band seemed much tighter and together since we caught them warming up for Washed Out last summer, which is always nice to witness in live performance.

Loads of band merch available, love it!!!

Crossing paths again with David Byrne

We spent the rest of the night checking out the acts in the Opera House: Twin Shadow, Sharon Van Etten and The Walkman. The crowd was allowed to fill in the orchestra pit and without ticketed seats, mingle about at will. This also allowed a nice back and forth during sets in the Opera House back to other bands in the BAMcafé, along with food and drink. Wondering where Paul had wandered off, I texted him for info.

"Upstairs talking to db" he wrote, using the initials for David Byrne who we had heard was in the house. I thought maybe Paul was just saying Byrne was nearby, but when I got there I saw he was indeed telling the truth -- two guys just chatting at the bar. Paul was in the middle of telling our story of helping his friend Brian Eno through airport security after Moogfest last fall. I chimed in with details and then asked him about how he once said that he was disappointed not to see his contemporaries at music shows around the city. Turns out he actually meant fellow musicians, not just the same generation of music fans (like me!)

BAM Lobby

Looking forward to going back Saturday night and full write up to appear on PopMatters soon. Here's a few videos from last night below.

Sharon Van Etten "All I Can" @ Crossing Brooklyn Ferry, BAM 5/3/12

The Walkmen "Heaven" @ Crossing Brooklyn Ferry, BAM 5/3/12

The Walkmen set list

BAM's Music Fest Crossing Brooklyn Ferry This Weekend

noreply@blogger.com (JaneJS) — Mon, 30 Apr 2012 15:51:00 +0000

In anticipation of this weekend's Crossing Brooklyn Ferry new music festival, the Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM) compiled a video playlist highlighting some of the 30+ artists in the line up. Curated by The National's Bryce and Aaron Dessner, the three-day event will take over BAM's main building at 30 Lafayette Avenue in Fort Greene, Brooklyn. While bands are playing on the Opera House stage and in the BAMcafe, there will also be films with original scores in the cinemas. Featured acts include The Walkmen/Sharon Van Etten (May 3), St Vincent/The Antlers (May 4) and Beirut/Atlas Sound (May 5, which is sold out). Tickets are available for the first two nights at $45 each along with the full schedule at CrossingBrooklynFerry.com.

Photo via @ouraugust

Spring 2012 New Music Playlist

noreply@blogger.com (JaneJS) — Thu, 26 Apr 2012 16:28:00 +0000

The spring blooms have been showing their stuff for weeks now, while new releases have hit the airwaves to please many a music fan. Plus with SXSW and Coachella’s two weekends come and gone, there are plenty of buzz worthy bands to choose from for the next new music playlist.

1. “Go Right Ahead” – The Hives

Swedish party band The Hives are back after five long years with their fifth release, Lex Hives. The band is led by brothers Per (a.k.a. Howlin Pelle, frontman and vocals) and Nicklas (a.k.a. Nicholaus Arson, guitar and keyboard) Almqvist, returning to their high-energy approach for this catchy single.

2. “Sad Vacation” – The Dandy Warhols

Portland’s own alternative rock icons, The Dandy Warhols, return to the scene with their ninth album, This Machine. Their gravelly, no excuses vibe chugs along in this opening track for the collection.

3. “Ho Hey” – The Lumineers

The Lumineers are a folk rock trio from Denver, specializing in an acoustic-based Americana sound. This infectious single is off their self-titled full length debut, complete with callbacks and an invitation to join their jam.

4. “Heavy Metal” – White Rabbits

White Rabbits are a sextet based in Brooklyn with an unusual rock band set up (two drummers and a piano player) to expand their sound. The band’s two frontmen, Greg Roberts and Stephen Patterson, met in college in Columbia, Missouri, while working at the local record store together. This song is off their third release, Milk Famous.

5. “Hollywood Forever Cemetery Sings” – Father John Misty

This song was recently offered as KEXP’s “Song of the Day” by Josh Tillman, the former drummer of Seattle band Fleet Foxes. The majestic tune is off the debut release for his solo project, Fear Fun.

6. “The Wave” – Miike Snow

7. “Devil’s Work” – Miike Snow

Miike Snow is an indie pop trio formed in Stockholm in 2007, incorporating the talents of Andrew Wyatt with producers Christian Karlsson and Pontus Winneberg (known as Bloodshy & Avant). These two shining examples of their work are off the band’s second album, Happy to You.

8. “Finding Reasons” – New Build

Al Doyle (of Hot Chip and formerly LCD Soundsystem) and Felix Martin (Hot Chip) joined forces with studio producer Tom Hopkins to create this British electronic collaboration, New Build. As expected, the tracks are filled with solid dance grooves such as in this single off the debut release, Yesterday Was Lived and Lost.

9. “The Reflection of You” – Bear In Heaven

10. “Sinful Nature” – Bear In Heaven

Brooklyn band Bear In Heaven embraces 80s synth pop song structures as formulated early on by Jon Philpot, during his off hours from working at a recording studio in Atlanta. These two swirling tunes are from their fourth full length release, I Love You, It’s Cool.

11. “Tourists” – Bright Moments

Bright Moments is the indie pop music project of Kelly Pratt, known for his horn and vocals in Arcade Fire, Beirut and LCD Soundsystem. He lets the brass section take center stage along with his new frontman position, as evidenced in this lead track off the band’s debut release, Natives.

12. “California” – Delta Spirit

Delta Spirit is an indie rock quintet from San Diego, now living in Long Beach. This song is from the band’s self-titled third album, with their folksy rock vocals and approach to instrumentation.

13. “Serpents” – Sharon Van Etten

Brooklyn based singer-songwriter Sharon Van Etten embraces the indie folk rock genre with her heartfelt compositions. This song is off her third release, Tramp, which was produced by The National’s Aaron Dressner (who also makes an appearance as a performer as well).

14. “Shiny Things” – Fanfarlo

Fanfarlo is a London based indie pop quintet, fronted by Swedish musician Simon Balthazar. The band’s eclectic instrumentation includes trumpet, mandolin, violin, musical saw and clarinet along with the standard rock band set up. This song is the single off their second release, Rooms Filled with Light.

15. “Myth” – Beach House

Dream pop trailblazers Beach House are back with this single off their fourth album, Bloom. Featuring French-born Victoria Legrand’s soaring vocals and Baltimore’s Alex Scally, the duo continues to offer larger-than-life musical landscapes.

16. “Eyeoneye” – Andrew Bird

17. “Belles” – Andrew Bird

Chicago area native Andrew Bird lists voice, violin, guitar and glockenspiel as his instruments for creating indie folk rock that has resulted in nine albums and more. These two songs are from the latest release Break It Yourself.

Gotye vs. GLEE -- Is it still good pr if you're whining about it?

noreply@blogger.com (JaneJS) — Tue, 24 Apr 2012 15:54:00 +0000

Photo: Simon Schluter

With Gotye's hit "Somebody That I Used to Know" still all over the airwaves and in the top ten of VH-1's "Top 20 Music Video Countdown," the artist is riding the wave of being a music sensation. The song caught my ear on KCRW last summer and is worthy of the cross over attention, with its eclectic instrumentation and soaring male/female vocals. Gotye's release Making Mirrors (which I reviewed for BUST Magazine when it came out last January, finding it uneven and a bit all over the place) is now #7 on the Billboard 200. To complete the ascension, Gotye performed on Saturday Night Live April 14th, complete with a spoof of the artistic video.

But after selling the song to GLEE, Gotye commented in how he was not happy with the production as reported by SPIN, liking it to "hearing it from a cardboard box." How could he not be surprised that the vocals were given the pop vibe as standard for the show about high school drama nerds? I'm sure he was paid handsomely for the handover too. Even though I watch the program to revisit my own high school musical days, it was a bit cringeworthy with the duo changed from a heated exchange between ex-lovers to emotionally challenged brothers (Darren Criss and guest star Matt Bomer of White Collar). Later in the episode, there was a similar feeling with the Givers' buoyant song "Up Up Up" flattened out almost beyond recognition. Yet when the show returned to decades old music in the recent Saturday Night Fever based episode, its audience wasn't as enthusiastic -- there was a vote of no confidence with a drop in sheer numbers. As for Gotye, he backed off his remarks in a recent performance as covered in The Hollywood Reporter, calling the whole thing "clever." Clever move indeed, but is it too late to quell the media backlash?

This Year's Record Store Day -- April 21, 2012

noreply@blogger.com (JaneJS) — Fri, 20 Apr 2012 15:51:00 +0000

TOMORROW is Record Store Day, so get ready to go visit at your favorite shop (if you're lucky enough to still have one in your area that is, providing behind the annual event). In honor of the day, PopMatters has enlisted the help of artists and staff to celebrate favorite stores and hangouts. The lengthy pool of artists was split in half this week, with Part 1 and Part 2 full of memories plus current music. (Be sure to check out The Darcys in Part 1, who I saw recently in a solid supporting slot for the Bombay Bicycle Club at Bowery Ballroom).

The PopMatters staff picks include my own personal top three: Amoeba Music in L.A., Sound Garden in the historic neighborhood Fell's Point, Baltimore, and of course my town's beloved Johnny's in Darien (recent blog post here). I have such fond memories of all three, treasures in their own right from the tiny but chock full of memorabilia and memories at Johnny's to Sound Garden's open square footprint of both new and used items, with the best sticker selection I've ever seen anywhere. Amoeba's in L.A. looks like a big supermarket from the outside, but inside is a vast warehouse of musical finds. The store hosts many live performances and some day I'd love to be there for one...

RecordStoreDay.com posted a full list of events and special releases or NPR has a list of "A Dozen Reasons to Visit Your Local Record Store Day on Saturday," for those who still need more convincing.

R.I.P. Dick Clark -- The Man Who Kept the Party Going

noreply@blogger.com (JaneJS) — Thu, 19 Apr 2012 14:08:00 +0000

Photo: OnTheRedCarpet.com

Dick Clark was a part of pop culture for as long as I can remember, hosting American Bandstand and every New Year's Rockin' Eve since I was old enough to stay up to watch to ball drop in Times Square. My Dick Clark moment came in 2001, as I gathered with friends around some TV per usual (not even sure was exactly I was but it was back in the Connecticut suburbs after living in the city -- our little town had lost nine people who were killed for the simple act of going to work that day). What a comfort it was to hear his iconic baritone, announcing how he had no doubt that people would show up in the crowd to celebrate. "New Yorkers are a resilient people" Clark declared, imploring us all to be the same. We were all grief stricken and the tears flowed yet again that night. Clark continued to show up for this annual gig on ABC, even after a stroke had slurred his speech. Welcoming another year with a clean slate continues to be our tradition to gather with friends around the television and party.

Dan Wilson Interview: Co-writer of Adele Songs and Semisonic Frontman

noreply@blogger.com (JaneJS) — Tue, 17 Apr 2012 20:39:00 +0000

Photo by Melanie Nisson

When an opportunity came along to interview Dan Wilson for PopMatters recently, I jumped at the chance to discuss his newly Grammy-fied work with Adele as well as have a chat just being a fan of his 90s band, Semisonic. It was a good ice breaker to be able to say pointedly how I was a proud owner of a Semisonic cassette back in the day, so with a chuckle of generational recognition we began the game of question and answer. After the last prepared subject of his own work, I asked Wilson how he was going to find the time to finish his next album. He told a story of a friend who ran into Bob Dylan at some nondescript grocery store, telling the icon how much he admired the music, etc. Dylan reportedly turned to the guy and said, "No time for nobody." Wilson laughed as he obviously related to the simple feeling of being way too busy, which in the world of music is a very good thing indeed.

While doing my research, I came across a commencement address Wilson gave in 2009 at the MacNally Smith College of Music in his hometown state of Minnesota. I just love his idea of jumping in the pool, whatever your pool may be... the world is constantly changing but there are still those who are going for it and those who stand around looking in, it's a choice to be made on a daily basis.

Link to interview on PopMatters here.

Hopping Aboard the April is Public Radio Music Month Bandwagon

noreply@blogger.com (JaneJS) — Fri, 13 Apr 2012 15:22:00 +0000

I had no idea... The month is almost half over and I just found out that April is "Public Radio Month." Appropriately enough, I learned about it through an email from one of my favorite public radio stations: The Alternate Side, which is part of WFUV.org. It referenced a letter of thanks signed by artists, bands and even record companies, with appreciation for these stations that "take chances" to play music even when "it doesn't sound like everything else on the radio dial." This was signed on April 9th by some of my treasured music makers from MGMT, Passion Pit, and My Morning Jacket, to Ozomatli and Chairlift. Additional names have since been added with Rolling Stone sharing the story, such as The Decemberists and Andrew Bird.

As listed on the right sidebar of this blog, my best sources for new music are public radio stations. Two years ago, the very first article I wrote for PopMatters was "Radio is Doing Just Fine... Online," where I extolled the virtues of my coveted time listening to (mainly public) radio over the internet. My daily routine revolves around KEXP's "John in the Morning" show from 9:00 am to noon EST and KCRW's "Morning Becomes Eclectic" from noon to 3 pm EST, with gaps filled by The Alternate Side online or in the car weekday mornings on WNYE 91.5 in the New York City area. These three outlets feed my soul with new music, news and live sessions. Their blogs detail upcoming concerts, more news and vast archives are available anytime I care to access something new or revisit a session truncated when life intervenes. My membership in these stations has also outfitted my wardrobe with various T-shirts, tote bags and baseball caps, worn proudly everywhere I go. It's music and more... community plus a sense of involvement in the music scene by simply tuning in, wherever I am.

Listening to my iTunes or even Pandora plays music I already know, it's as basic as that. These stations provide new discoveries to add to my playlists and djs who speak from the heart about music they love. As a lone writer at a desk in a home office, I'm connected to others with a shared commitment to new music day in and day out. Let me add my thanks to public radio music, with gratitude from a very dedicated listener.

Daytrotter's Coachella Playlist 2012

noreply@blogger.com (JaneJS) — Wed, 11 Apr 2012 15:49:00 +0000

Daytrotter is providing its own Coachella buzz with a playlist of performers in the lineup for both weekends: April 13 – 15 as well as April 20 -22, in a new double dose experiment for the annual California desert festival. (I'm looking forward to catching as much of the webcast as I can on the Coachella Youtube channel here, why not go ahead and subscribe now?) This feature by “Mr. Daytrotter” introduces everyone on the bill, a true testament to the Daytrotter mission which captures worthy bands in stripped down, live sessions. This listening opportunity of 34 songs lasts over two hours and of course hearing just one song invites further exploration Daytrotter style, with full set offerings lurking right on the website.

Listen to the Coachella Daytrotter Playlist: 2012 here.

And FYI a monthly subscription to all things Daytrotter is a measly $2... such a bargain!

New Song from The Dandy Warhols "Sad Vacation"

noreply@blogger.com (JaneJS) — Mon, 02 Apr 2012 13:44:00 +0000

As one of my very fave bands, I was thrilled to learn recently that The Dandy Warhols are getting ready to release another album (their eighth since 1995) on April 24th called This Machine. Stereogum provides a sneak peak of the track "Sad Vacation" as a free download at the link below -- instantly recognizable with the band's bottom heavy approach, adding in doubled vocals across an octave and wailing guitars that disintegrate into a very unpolished finish. Their signature in-your-face, inexcusable vibe makes me love this group since I discovered them for my own personal playlists so long ago. I'll definitely be counting the days until I can hear more.

Listen to "Sad Vacation" via Sterogum here.

Revisit my review of their show in Fall of 2010 here.

The Dandy Warhols @ Webster Hall, 11/6/12 "This Will Be the Last Time" Cover of Rolling Stones (Awesome encore!)

Record Store Day Planned for April 21 & Shout Out to My Own Fave, Johnny's Records of Darien, CT

noreply@blogger.com (JaneJS) — Fri, 30 Mar 2012 16:55:00 +0000

Mark your calendars -- this year's Record Store Day is in the works for April 21st with special releases and more. It's an event to honor those independent record stores still in existence, not just a day of remembrance for the many past lives of such establishments. For me, it could only mean Johnny's Records -- an iconic storefront in town where Moby used to decorate the bags using his favorite medium (a Sharpie). You can check out the specials for Record Store Day and tons of collectibles offered online or in store at johnnysrecords.com.

Johnny’s Records

45 Tokeneke Road, Darien CT (203) 655-0157

The brick front and cluttered window of Johnny’s Records has graced a side street in Darien, Connecticut since 1975. It’s a small shop chock full of collectibles, clothing and music – both vinyl and CDs represented now. If you’re lucky enough to visit with the man himself, John Konrad, there, he’ll happily point you the right direction to your favorite artist or recommend another. (I will be forever thankful for his recommendation of Spoon years ago.) The place is full of history: members of Kiss were married there and former employee Moby used to draw cartoons on shopping bags, which became his “little idiot” alter ego character.

Johnny's Records local cable ad which ran on MTV in the 90s

Moby "Study War" Blip with info about The Little Idiot character

New Bear In Heaven Release on NPR's "First Listen"

noreply@blogger.com (JaneJS) — Tue, 27 Mar 2012 16:40:00 +0000

Bear In Heaven Promo Photo by Nick Helderman

Alt fave band Bear In Heaven amassed some considerable buzz at this year's SXSW festival and now they're gearing up to release their fifth album I Love You, It's Cool, next week (April 3). The trio actually began back in 1998 as a solo studio project for Jon Philpot down in Atlanta, until a group mentality amassed in Brooklyn by 2003. The trio now includes guitarist Adam Wills and drummer Joe Stickney. This new collection of songs continues the synth-heavy approach with Philpot vocals buried among psychedelic sensibilities. Simplistic pop treatments lurk in their lyrics such as "Feels like a thousand years have gone by without you" in "Reflection of You" and "Friends don't know what you've been through" in "Sinful Nature." But with soaring choruses, pulsing beats and majestic guitar lines, all is easily forgiven.

Listen to I Love You, It's Cool in its entirety or song by song, on NPR's "First Listen" program here.

New Music Seminar 2012 in NYC June 17 – 19

noreply@blogger.com (JaneJS) — Thu, 22 Mar 2012 17:01:00 +0000

This year’s New Music Seminar 2012 (NMS) will take place at Webster Hall in New York City on June 17 – 19, to discuss the state of the music industry and “new music business resurrection.” It offers speakers and workshops covering all areas of the industry, along with countless networking opportunities. The line up includes the SoundExchange Digital Broadcast Summit, the BMI Creative Conclave and keynotes from Clear Channel CEO Bob Pittman and digital music futurist and Founders Fund Executive General Partner, Sean Parker.

There will be showcases for artists at night, including Artist on the Verge contenders. NMS delegates will vote for a winner to receive $250,000 in marketing, promotion, musical equipment and services. During the final day of the conference, Tom Jackson of Tom Jackson Productions will review the finalists in a “Live Performance Workshop – Making the Band.” A popular forum at last year’s NMS in Los Angeles, Jackson provides honest, accessible feedback both in terms of musical arrangements and visual tips for a successful live show. The presentation “Trends in A&R” will also review the top three Artists on the Verge acts, as top executive discuss the latest trends in A&R as well as what compels them to sign artists in today’s marketplace.

For the complete schedule and registration information, visit NewMusicSeminar.com.

SXSW 2012 Media Coverage Recap

noreply@blogger.com (JaneJS) — Tue, 20 Mar 2012 16:37:00 +0000

Another SXSW has is now in the books. The festival celebrated 25 years with a ten-fold increase in size -- 2000 musical acts descended on Austin to play in 90 venues or even on the street until last call at 2 a.m. on Saturday (St. Patrick's Day no less!) It's interesting to follow the coverage before and during, especially with more gigs streaming live online. There was definitely a larger rap and hip hop presence this year, plus electronic dance music continues to enjoy its higher profile in the music industry. In the process, I heard bands I barely knew get a nice mention and learned about countless new bands, which is exactly the point of this annual gathering.

A good point of introduction is the mix, "SPIN Presents Austin Power: Best SXSW Acts" 2012, available as a free download after handing over your email address. (They already had mine so it was no big deal. I enjoy their monthly playlists anyway, however the horrendous redesign of their print issues are another nail in the print publication coffin.) With 36 songs lasting two and a half hours, there's bound to be something to catch your ear although I found myself skipping ahead more than a few times. I'm always curious just to peruse listed band names: from the mundane (White Fence, The Coathangers) to witty (Class Actress) and extremely descriptive (Screaming Females).

NPR music also had a "All Songs Considered" preview show which listed my recent interview/review band Bright Moments as one to watch. During the festival, the site offered a live feed to Bruce Springsteen's keynote speech which is here for those still wanting to bask in the glow of the rock star's presence online. Basically he was brought in as the member of the old guard to inspire the new guard, reminding everyone that "There is no right way, no pure way of doing. There is just doing." Sounds more like a tag line for a sports company, but Mr. Bruce can do no wrong in this beleaguered industry. I'm sure it was a thrill just to have him in town for a bit.

Both the LA Times and the NY Times provided nice wrap up articles as stalwart news organizations in the traditional sense. LA cited Bear In Heaven as the stand out newcomer along with the crowd pleasing honky tonk of Alabama Shakes, and there were props to Grimes for a heightened stage presence. NY decided to shine a spotlight on the folksy sound of Colorado band The Lumineers as well as Georgia's Reptar (who I saw in a supporting slot last year and maybe I should revisit). Although the write up by the Associated Press proclaimed that the entire festival show was stolen by the Austin High School marching band, appearing in an outdoor stadium at the University of Texas with Mumford & Sons, Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros, and Old Crow Medicine Show on the final night.

Consequence of Sound (COS) required each writer to return with two new fave bands, making for an interesting list. One band chosen for this is Chairlift, who begins the latest Early Spring Playlist here. COS also provided an overabundance of photos which I find is like looking through another high school's yearbook, one that is way cooler than your school could ever be. The voluminous LATimes photo gallery is also way beyond necessary. My favorite photo actually came from blog brand PopMatters, where there is someone literally climbing the walls during Day 2's Burgerstock showcase presented by Burger Records. Rolling Stone has a nice mix of videos and photos on their website, as does Pitchfork -- although obligated to assert their taste maker cred by anointing bands as "The Best (and Worst)." Stereogum took it one step closer to high school behavior by listing "SXSW Superlatives 2012," from Best Beard and Best Wailer, to Longest Setup Time.

My fave online radio stations were also at the festival to broadcast live and provide coverage through their online blogs: KCRW, KEXP and WFUV's The Alternate Side. These links will offer me plenty of new music sustenance going forward, along with the upcoming NPR music wrap up show. NPR has already submitted some wrap up coverage, including a nice shout out to women rockers. And for those who actually care about the latest fashions at such festivals, check out the scene via New York Magazine for shoes, eyewear and other trends.

New Build @ Mercury Lounge March 13

noreply@blogger.com (JaneJS) — Mon, 19 Mar 2012 17:39:00 +0000

When the balmy spring weather arrived early in NYC last week I strolled through Greenwich Village, taking my time to get to Mercury Lounge for New Build's early show at Mercury Lounge. I had just met a friend/neighbor across the street from our old apartment building for a nice chatty happy hour catch up session, so it should have been no surprise that I would pass Rick Ocasek, another guy I used to see around the neighborhood when I lived there. Some things never change I guess, even in NYC.

When I arrived at the venue, it was practically empty and the supporting slot of Reverend John Wilkins had not begun. I spotted singer Al Doyle milling about and went up to say hello. He admitted to being quite nervous that the place hadn't started filling up, so I told him how early shows in NYC aren't easy. Doyle remarked how he hoped the scalpers didn't get all the tickets and I had to confess that's how I got mine (even though I'd be reviewing his band, I wanted to be sure I had a ticket). The band added a second show the next night but that one sold out quickly as well!

I was thrilled to meet the guy after seeing him up on stage with two of my fave bands, LCD Soundsystem and Hot Chip -- that night added another fun show, seeing Doyle performing with his latest band.

PopMatters review here and another video below.

With Al Doyle before the show

New Build "Finding Reasons" @ Mercury Lounge, NYC 3/13/12

Fanfarlo @ Webster Hall March 6

noreply@blogger.com (JaneJS) — Thu, 15 Mar 2012 15:49:00 +0000

Going to concerts back to back is something I try not to do, especially if it occurs early in the week. But I really wanted to see Fanfarlo, a U.K. band at Webster Hall the night after the Bombay Bicycle Club gig. I loved their debut album, Resevoir, playing it over and over back when it came out in 2009. Their latest release, Rooms Filled With Light, sounded promising but it wasn't hitting me in the same way. Things seemed more labored and while the music sounded livelier/looser in concert, the older songs still stood out in comparison. Also I was happy to pass over the photographer duties again, this time to PopMatters Events Editor Sachyn Mital, as Webster Hall is crazy dark and hard to capture (see my sorry attempt on this page).

PopMatters review here and more videos below.

Fanfarlo "Comets" @ Webster Hall NYC 3/6/12

Fanfarlo "Tightrope" @ Webster Hall NYC 3/6/12

Early Spring 2012 New Music Playlist

noreply@blogger.com (JaneJS) — Tue, 13 Mar 2012 19:12:00 +0000

Why not jump into the spring season a bit early after the "winter that wasn’t" with a bunch of new tunes ready for the next playlist? The time change forward is never easy, but releases from Chairlift, Porcelain Raft and Dr. Dog can help ease the transition. Also much appreciated the free downloads from Pretty Lights and Converse’s latest collaboration, bringing together the Gorillaz, Andre 3000 and James Murphy of LCD Soundsystem to round out the mix.

1.”Amanaemonesia” – Chairlift

2. “Sidewalk Safari” – Chairlift

Now a duo comprised of Caroline Polachek (vocals/synths) and Patrick Wimberly (bass/keyboard/drums), Brooklyn based Chairlift made a point of recording during the day to capture a bright energy with their indie synth pop and it shows. These two sprightly songs are off the band’s sophomore release, Something.

3. “Back of Your Neck” – Howler

This young quintet from Minneapolis updates the early rock ‘n roll sound on their debut release, America Give Up. In a classic story, the group formed out of boredom to skewer all conventions -- piling up fans at their energetic live performances.

4. “Drifting In and Out” – Porcelain Raft

5. “Unless You Speak from Your Heart” – Porcelain Raft

Composer Mauro Remiddi, an Italian ex-pat now living in New York City, creates a fuzzy electronic pop vibe as Porcelain Raft. These two tunes, off the release Strange Weekend, capture the varying moods of this band.

6. “DoYaThing” – Gorillaz featuring Andre 3000 and James Murphy

Converse’s latest foray into the music business put Damon Albarn of the Gorillaz in a studio with Andre 3000 and James Murphy. This funky dance track was released as a free download on the Converse website, along with a sprawling, twelve-minute version.

7. “Champagne Coast” – Blood Orange

This spacious single is off the 2011 debut album, Coastal Grooves, by British singer/songwriter Devonté Hynes. He has penned songs for others such as Florence and Machine, but with this collection Hynes has full control of the final product with his own band.

8. “Lonesome” – Dr. Dog

9. “These Days” – Dr. Dog

Philly-based band Dr. Dog has a renewed commitment to their live jam sound as evidenced in these two songs off their latest release, Be the Void. The raucous party continues for over a decade now, led by guitarist/singer Scott McMicken’s raw vocals.

10. “Origins” – Tennis

Tennis is a husband and wife indie pop duo featuring Alaina Moore (vocals/keyboards) and Patrick Riley (guitar). This song is off their sophomore release, Young and Old, which brings a welcome mix of expanded instrumentation to their music.

11. “Simple Song” – The Shins

Singer/songwriter James Mercer creates a new line up for the new release, Ports of Morrow, yet this single shows a return to the Portland band’s classic indie rock sound. The building melody finds space for a playful interlude, complete with choral harmonies behind Mercer’s crooning.

12. “Coastal Brake” – Tycho

Tycho is Scott Hansen’s ambient music project full of blissed out tracks of electronica, this one off the latest release Dive. Based in San Francisco, Hansen is also known as ISO50 for his photographic and design works.

13. “Genesis” – Grimes

Montreal musician Claire Boucher creates indie dream pop, with her vocals floating over synths. This is the single off her latest release, Visions.

14. “Dour Percentage” – Of Montreal

This song is from Georgian Kevin Barnes’ eleventh releases of musical visions, Paralytic Stalks. His soulful singing compliments the band’s psychedelic groove in this meandering composition.

15. “Raw Umber/Twilight” – Walls

The U.K. electronic duo of Sam Willis and Alessio Natalizia layer the beats with guitars, synths and harmonies to create a musical glitch haven. This song is off their second release, Coracle.

16. “We Must Go On” – Pretty Lights

Colorado native Derek Vincent Smith is the mastermind behind the electronic music of known as Pretty Lights. This soundscape was released with a self-produced video on the band's website, its hip hop vibe punctuated with an uplifting yet reflective vocal hook.