The Times The Are a Changin'

Whether you've noticed or not, this WONDERFUL blog has run its course. I have yet to discuss the matter with Hugh, but we may continue it, but in a format that is a)less demanding and b)less demanding. I think we would both still love to share music with our friends, but maybe more casually. Keep checking back and stay tuned via facebook for more info/updates.

Long live the Dude!

Happy Halloween!

It was a Graveyard Smash

Happy Halloween! Have a spooktacular day!

Dia de Los Muertos!

I wish I could play the guitar like this.

Clap

Halloween is Right Around the Corner: ZOMBIES!!

One of my favorite bands, that sadly, broke up.

New Cake!

Cake rocks:

bang bang bang (on the drum all day?)

Debut Albums are Generally Better than All Subsequent Albums

I Walked

New Sufjan!!

Retro Frizzle my Nizzles

1 week countdown to halloween....

Everyday!

Classic Buddy Holly + classic movie scene = pretty damn good Friday.

the rent is TOO damn high

Songs for No One

Our trivia team made a comeback appearance at Will's this week, and although we didn't come close to winning, thanks to none of us having ever read "A Wrinkle in Time", I did hear this song, and had to ask the emcee immediately who it was. Now, I knew it sounded familiar and as it turns out, I actually own this CD. I guess the memory of it just got lost in the shuffle. Time to get it back in rotation.

If You Don't Know By Now...

...that I'm in love with Fanfarlo, then you don't know me at all.



Oh, and for all you LOST fans...

Just a Great Tune

Listened to this earlier today and now I can't get it outta my head...

Why Not Toulouse...

An interesting mix of The Decemberists/The Weakerthans. All hopeful, youthful, and a lot of dudes.

GET BACK!

truth be told, I'm voting for Vicky today. i can't top it.

but this one is good too.

Rock the What?

This is just how I feel today!

All is Full of Swan Dresses

I'm taking a cue from Mr. McPoyle and posting a Chris Cunningham video, more for the video than the song. Bjork's music can be danceable, but most people just think it's really Icelandic and weird. I mean, I think that too, but I'm into that sort of thing:)

go on take yo mama's car home!

Aphex Twin: aka AFX, aka PowerPill, aka Richard d. James - is a musical weirdo. he has a strange approach to music, mixing genres and every manner of electronic blips, bleeps and bloops. he was huge in the late 90's for stretching the concept of electronic music. some elitist nerds dubbed his stuff "intelligent dance music." intelligent? i'm not sure. dance music? maybe this song, but i'd love to watch someone try to dance to the rest of his music.

Anyways.... the guy makes some weird stuff. this is probably the easiest on the ears of his entire catalog. i like the song, a lot. but i LOVE the video. Chris Cunningham directs it. He's got some other amazing ones i recommend watching (for bjork, squarepusher, etc.). but for now, i leave you with the hilarious and creepy Windowlicker by AphexTwin.

On the Road to a Good Dirge...

...I'm afraid one will soon be necessary.

Superchunk Rules...Still!!

Number 1 Scratch DJ EVER!

this scratch-master has crazy skillz

Welcome to Miami

Retro Enough

They're not French, but they sure do kick? Nah, that's pretty bad. French Kicks have been one of my favorite bands since college, when I went to see the Walkmen, got super drunk and feel in love with the opening band (FK) and tried to buy their CD with my last 5 dollars but they wouldn't sell it to me! Well, I've bought everything they've put out since, until eventually they petered out of existence. I'm not sure if they are on hiatus or if they truly broke up, but either way it's sad. But it's also sad going to see a show and be one of 15 people there actually enjoying it. They are still amazing in my eyes!! Any singer that throws a whiskey glass at a heckling fan gets a gold star in my book:)

Not So Quiet Little Voices

Sing it sister!

Japanese Cops

I didn't even know Tokyo Police Club had a new record (Champ) out until I randomly saw it at Best Buy. "Breakneck Speed" is off of that new record.

An Open Letter...

...to the person who continually votes for Hugh Honey when I'm the only one to post a song. You're mean, and I'm a sensitive flower whose feelings are easily hurt. Meanie.

I saw Cymbals Eat Guitars open for The Thermals on Sunday night and they were, in a word, phenomenal. They're passionate, sensitive and apparently reliving the emo glory days, but they're great at what they do. This is "Wind Phoenix" off their debut Why There Are Mountains.

Whoever you are out there, I hope you hate it. -VV

Tramps Like Us

I've been listening to Titus Andronicus quite a bit lately. I missed their show at the Metro because of kickball, but I'll get around to it someday... The singer sounds so much like Conor Oberst that it seems incredibly derivative, but the music has so much passion and grit, and singing about Nebraska is nothing like singing about New Jersey, so I have to forgive them that one slight. Here's "A More Perfect Union"

Ultimate Retro Europop

Ok, so in honor of the Europop I've been posting all week, I wanted to post one of the best examples that exists, Ace of Base. How was this band so popular? Because they're European, that's why. I don't think it has to do with their music, although I admit, I bought this record AND the one that came out after it, so, yes, I'm guilty as well. Happy Friday homeslice! Oh,and if anyone has any interest in more Europop, please start reading this blog: www.europopped.com It's amazing!

Retro Friday

Man this song rules:

UK Pop Included...

The Eurotrash continues with UK hip-pop hottie Esser:

Vick Vick Vickidelphia

This is the latest "it" band. Do you buy the hype?

Wanna Learn Spanish?

One of the great things about Europop is that many times it is sung in a different language. This song by Nena Daconte is a perfect example. I visited Madrid awhile ago and heard this song at least 6 times a day...that's what happens when a great pop song blows up!! I didn't have a choice but to buy the record and get my Spanish learn on. Enjoy, even if you don't know what she's saying...

Midwest Hip Hop

I haven't enjoyed any Midwest hiphop south of Chicago this much since the Nelly invasion of Freshman year of college! Here is Indiana's own Freddy Gibbs with "What it be like". Thug life!

The Mighty Return of EuroPop!

I'm gonna go crazy this week and feature some of my favorite recent Europop songs. It won't be my usual style, but what can I say, I tend to have a weak spot for trashy, cheesy, European pop songs:)

German is for Suckers

I was nearly going to abandon the cover theme when I saw what Hugh put up, and then remembered all those 90s bands that covered 80s music. That niche is a goldmine for great cover songs!!

Bueller? Bueller? Bueller?

I remember skanking out to this song back in the day. Great cover, great song, yada yada yada.

Here's Save Ferris with Come on Eileen:

Gnarls Raconteurs

I was lucky enough to catch this performance a few years ago at Lollapalooza. Pretty sweet going from seeing the original to this awesome cover within a couple of hours. 2006 was badass...

Bowie to Bowie

Love me some Bowie. Even better is some Nirvana unplugged covering some Bowie. Best unplugged ever? MTV completely sucks now, I wish they would bring back this series more often.

Here is "the man who sold the world":

Under the Covers 5

I can get down with the cover song theme! You probably all know how much I love Fanfarlo, and I've already posted them doing a cover, but here's another one. Here, they are covering the Smashing Pumpkins and their song "We Only Come Out at Night".

COVER it live!

I decided to theme it up this week with cover tracks. There are quite a few famous songs out there that are actually covers, yet the cover has achieved way more notoriety. My first choice is a cover by Nada Surf of Depeche Mode's "Enjoy the Silence". A great tune and an interesting take by Nada Surf. This can be found on the album "If I had a hi-fi" by Nada Surf which features all covers.

Puff Puff Give Motha******

Man, whatever happened to these guys?

KickBall Fridays

its finally friday!!! i never thought we'd make it this week. but there's a lot to look forward to in the next few days and i'm excited.

i'm not sure if hugh and vicky are doing retro fridays, but to be on the safe side i'm posting Link Wray. he's a total badass.

HDTV

I love Lupe Fiasco. He's local. "Hi Definition" is another song I rocked out to recently after not listening for awhile. If that makes any sense.

It's recommended that you bump the bass at your work computer and put one hand in the air-er with a sneer on your face while you listen.




Lupe Fiasco ft. Snoop Dogg - Hi-Definition by sfkoenig17

Outsourcing Rant

I work with a lot of IT outsourcing houses in India. My #1 problem is the 15hr time difference. I've been up at 5am every day this week, drinking RedBull and listening to heated debates about programming architecture; all spoken in deep accents. Worst of all, I'm not a programmer so I have no idea what they're arguing about... even when I CAN understand the words.

The idea is you blend amazing Indian tech skills with American business know-how. We set the business case and requirements during our business day, and they program the shit out of it during our night.. and by 8amCST, we will have solved world hunger. It's this 'perfect solution' to provide round-the-clock efficiency. It never works this way.

That is wrong, it did work once. An American interpreter and an Indian dance troupe were blended into something spectacular. I suggest indulging in any kind of "experience enhancing" substances you might prefer before watching this.

Mr. Miyagi Did Not Make This

Fujiya & Miyagi. What a great name! I think they are Australian. I first heard these guys because of a friend of mine who would play them all the time while we were summer school teachers in Spain. It's chill but propulsive at the same time. I haven't heard much off their latest disc, but hear it's pretty damn good too.

Expletives are Fun!

Cee Lo Green, one half of Gnarls Barkley, has had a recent huge hit with his song, "Fuck You". I read about it in Time Out among other publications but only heard it this weekend while driving around Madison chasing my friend in the Ironman. Even though its message may not be so happy, the song in general is just a really happy song!

It's Sometimes Sunny in Chicago

It's no secret that Chicago weather is pretty lousy. While there is no city I'd rather be in than Chicago on a nice summer (or fall) day, we all know those are few and far between. There are other cities, like Philadelphia, where its always sunny. Speaking of... that show starts this Thursday. I'll be spending my Thursdays in my bathrobe, with the heat cranked-up and a big glass of milk.... laughing my butt off.

Until then, I leave you with Beirut. Its a band, but mostly its just some guy. I don't know a lot other than he dropped out of high school and went to live with some cousin in Europe. Then he came back and started writing "worldly" songs. I'm sure his parents weren't happy about it, but I am.

This is Beirut with the song 'Nantes' off the album The Flying Cup Club

Rock Rock Rock!

The Thermals are great! Carrie Brownstein is great! This video is really fun! I had a great, fun weekend watching my buddy Mike finish the Ironman, so I wanted to post a great, fun song for this lovely Monday morning. Enjoy!

Bang on the drum all day

I did a little painting this weekend (thx for the help Liam!!) and while painting we jammed out to the new Budos Band album. For those not familiar with them, they consider themselves "afro-soul". They mainly have instrumental jams.. if you ever can see them live I HIGHLY recommend it.

They just released their 3rd album - Budos Band III. That's what we jammed out to on Saturday. This song isn't on that album, but is excellent nonetheless. Here is Budos Band with Aynotchesh Yererfu:

HIGHLANDER THEME

Sorry, the quality on this vid sucks, but it doesn't mean this band/song doesn't rock any less.

I Want My MTV

Oh Dire Straits, how I love thee. For the beginning of the NFL regular season and my first time in a fantasy football league, I thought I'd put up "Walk of Life" for its wonderful display of how sports and music mix. Or maybe just to reminisce about when basketball players wore short shorts:) Happy Friday!

Look Out for Jaws!

Surfer Blood has been one of the big indie favorites of 2010. Pitchfork loves 'em, Bob Boilen of NPR loves 'em, and although I haven't listened extensively to 'em, I sure do like 'em a lot too. Catch a wave and some "Floating Vibes".

Aaron Rodgers Rock n Roll!

Rock on to that super bowl!

Hooray for Earth

Yes, that is a real band name, and this is what they sound like. Here is their song, "Surrounded by Your Friends". I've been listening to a lot of synth-heavy stuff lately, and I'd say this falls under that category.

Young Love Does Happen Twice

I posted this song maybe last week or the week before, but it went unchallenged, so I'm doing a re-post because I still love it and have still been listening to it non-stop:

""Young Love" by Mystery Jets is possibly my new favorite song. I put it on this mix that I've been listening to constantly over the past couple of weeks, and I always get the most excited when this gem pops up. It features brit-pop darling Laura Marling, who I believe broke the young heart of the singer for Noah and the Whale, so I guess young love doesn't always last. Sob sob, but it sure is sweet."

Menomena na na na na

New Track from Menomena - take the weird out of TV on the Radio and add some hard rock and you get this band.

Here is "TAOS":

Under the Covers 4

I heard the Depeche Mode version of "Personal Jesus" on the radio yesterday but figured I'd throw up this cover by Johnny Cash because a)it's awesome and b)I can't get the embed code for the original. It's okay though, because The Man in Black does it justice and then some. It's the weekend bitches!!

James Brown Medley

The Godfather of Soul - 'nuff said:

Beverly Hills, What a Thrill!

Today is September 2, 2010. Or should I say 9/02/10. That's right, it's 90210 day!! I'm not quite sure how I'll be celebrating, but this will certainly get me in the mood! What will you do?

Play on words

Pobody's Nerfect. Reminds me of the Puck Furdue shirts. Nice play of words Wolf Parade!

Rococo in the Suburbs

"Rococo" is probably my favorite song off of Arcade Fire's new album, The Suburbs. I just love singing along to the "Ro-co-co ro-co-co ro-co-co ro-co-co ro-co-co RO-CO-CO!" A bit long-winded and I don't know exactly what they're talking about. Types of houses? I like the steady beat that feels like it's building up to something, but then doesn't really. The song truly reflects the feeling of living in the suburbs.

New Walkmen

Perfect for a Monday morning (and really any other time). I think the Walkmen continue to evolve as I enjoy each new album even more than the last.

Here is a track off their new record, which by the way you can stream in full over on NPR's website: http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=129177585

"Stranded":

Formidable Joy

Hello and welcome to a new week. I don't remember where I heard about The Joy Formidable, or heard their song "Whirring". All I know is that it was in my youtube favorites and decided to post it. It has a 90s alt rock feel to it, and may be a little too heavy for a Monday morning, but I'm throwing caution to the wind.

I Need You Around...For Now.

I was never into the Smoking Popes when they were at the height of their semi-obscure popularity, except for "I Need You Around" because it was on the Clueless soundtrack. I started listening to them a lot more in college, at the same time I was getting into Morrissey, and one should definitely be able to recognize the similarity between the two. The major difference is that The Smoking Popes rock a lot harder, and that's just a-okay with me. Happy Friday!

I think i'll have myself a beer

As I've mentioned on here, I was in a ska/punk band back in high school. I used to skank it out at the warped tour, ska against racisim, and many a reel big fish show. Speaking of Reel Big Fish, they are somehow still trucking along - that's some amazing staying power for a ska band (mighty mighty bosstones are still around too!).

Because it's retro Friday and we are all thirsty for some adult beverages, here is "Beer" by reel big fish:

Swedish People Write Good English Songs

The Tallest Man on Earth is actually a Swede named Kristian Matsson. Some say he's a modern day Bob Dylan, and he definitely does sound like him, but his lyrics aren't as politically and socially driven. In "King of Spain" Matsson makes a clear reference to Dylan by citing his "Spanish boots of leather", but the song still manages to sound fresh in a genre (folk) that is difficult to keep modern.

Patty Lee

Sorry for being MIA yesterday - long day trip to good ol' Des Moines, Iowa for work.

But today I'm back in the saddle. I saw Les Savy Fav at Pitchfork Fest a few years ago. I had heard legendary stories about the lead singer, Tim Harrington, and his crazy antics at live performances. He didn't disappoint, spending half the show stage diving and dancing in the crowd.

Here is "Patty Lee" by Les Savy Fav:

Ah, To Be Young and in Love

"Young Love" by Mystery Jets is possibly my new favorite song. I put it on this mix that I've been listening to constantly over the past couple of weeks, and I always get the most excited when this gem pops up. It features brit-pop darling Laura Marling, who I believe broke the young heart of the singer for Noah and the Whale, so I guess young love doesn't always last. Sob sob, but it sure is sweet.

Nice Jeans

I heard/read about White Denim awhile back and I only heard/read good things about this band, but I didn't actually make the effort to listen to any of their music until a couple of weeks ago. "Let's Talk About It" is the only song that really stuck out to me. Maybe you'll like it too.

Hipster Dance Party

Every now and again hipsters just wanna let loose. However, they can't just dance to anything - they need a new, hip electro-poppy song that is not by a "popular" artist. My song today falls somewhere in there. Kele, the lead singer from Bloc Party, just released his debut solo album. It's much much different than the hard-driven rock of Bloc Party. It sounds much more like something that would be played in some unmarked underground club. Here is "Tenderoni" by Kele:

You're Easy On the Eyes

Eugene McGuinness is another Brit I've discovered recently. "Fonz" is an upbeat tune that will hopefully get your week started right. I finished a paper this morning that I'm about to go turn in, so heavens knows my week has started off with a bang, mostly because my two-week summer vacation starts...NOW!!

Monday, Bloody Monday

Today was one of those days where I woke up in what I thought was the middle of the night - only I looked over at my clock and noticed it was 5 minutes before my alarm was set to go off. Bleh.

James Mercer, aka 'The Shins' has been busy with Dangermouse and their side-project Broken Bells. However, he recently recorded a cover track of "Goodbye Girl" (originally by 80s pop band Squeeze) as the Shins as part of this Levi's Pioneer Sessions.

Song isn't up on youtube - so click the link and scroll down, you'll find it:

http://stereogum.com/404131/shins-goodbye-girl/mp3s/

Wet Hot American Summer

So, one of the best movies of all time, Wet Hot American Summer, has been running on tv all week. "Jane" by Jefferson Starship is the background to possibly the best opening sequence of a movie ever. Well, a summer camp movie anyway...

Happy Friday everyone! Have a great weekend and rock the F out!!

You're the best!

Our highly anticipated kickball league starts tonight. We decided to have at-bat music this year, so each person on the team got to pick a song that will pump em up when walking to the plate. My choice was made famous by a montage in Karate Kid, "You're the Best", by Joe Esposito.

Wax on Wax off Daniel-son!

Going With The Voice

I'm going nice and mainstream today with Florence + The Machine with "Dog Days are Over". It's a slow builder, but once it gets going, it makes me feel inspired to do something. Like get dressed and go buy milk or something. 2 pros to this artist; she's British and she's got a killer voice.

This is not Toto

But the song name IS "Africa." Here is a little collaboration by Amadou and Miriam featuring K'naan (who I sometimes feel like is Mos Def in disguise).

An interesting side note I just learned on wikpedia:

Amadou & Mariam are a musical duo from Mali, composed of the couple Amadou Bagayoko (guitar and vocals) (born in Bamako 24 October 1954) and Mariam Doumbia (vocals) (born in Bamako 15 April 1958). The pair, known as "the blind couple from Mali" met at Mali's Institute for the Young Blind, and found they shared an interest in music. Amadou lost his vision at the age of 16 while Mariam became blind at age 5 as a consequence of untreated measles.

Ra Ra Riot meets Passion Pit

Here is a little Ra Ra Riot, "Ghost Under Rocks" remixed by Passion Pit. The new Ra Ra Riot is streaming over on NPR, I'm just checking it out now. I've still yet to make it to a Passion Pit show, but I'm always down for a hipster dance party:

If I Had Grown Up British...

I've recently gotten into this British TV show called Skins. It's about a group of teens in Bristol who are dealing with growing up, school, families and relationships. So, like Dawson's Creek...except that in British teen dramas the kids are doing loads of pills, smoking spliffs at every turn, bringing bottles of vodka to school, getting into trouble with gangsters and drug dealers, cheating with each others' boyfriends/girlfriends, staying out all night without their parents caring, and best of all, swearing like they grew up with Quentin Tarantino. Needless to say, it's a rather entertaining show. More realistic(?), but if kids in Britain are really like that, American parents have nothing to worry about.

Anyways, another highlight to the show is the music. I've discovered a slew of bands because of it. This is The Ettes with "Take it with You" (they're from L.A. not U.K.)

Dear God 2.0

I posted "Dear God" by the Monsters of Folk a few weeks back. The hard-working Roots crew have recently managed to release a new album despite their full-time gig as the Jimmy Fallon house band. Here is a track off the new album that features the Monsters of Folk 'Dear God' song - "Dear God 2.0":

Aren't They Called Crocodile Tears?

Tegan and Sara are Canadian twins that write sometimes cute, sometimes complicated pop songs, but in both cases, the songs are catchy and good. "Alligator" is off their latest album, Sainthood. It's one of those albums that, once you start listening to it, it's all you listen to for a week; well, that's if you like it of course.

I think the video is particularly funny because of the absurd dancing. You will have to click twice to watch the video via youtube, or you can simply listen below...my bad.



Alligator by sfkoenig17

Hide your kids! Hide your wife!

It's amazing what you can make with autotune these days.

The Only Song

Wow, I really couldn't wake up today. Lazy summer indeed. I've had this song, "The Only One" by Manchester Orchestra, in my head for the last day or so, and so I'm posting it because don't they say that in order to get it out of your head, you should listen to it again? That's probably not right, but I'm obviously being very slow today, in more ways than one. Go Monday!

Blister in the Sun

Happy Retro Friday!! As Made in Milwaukee week ends, I'm showcasing the Violent Femmes, a Milwaukee band whose continued success relies heavily on a few songs, "Blister in the Sun" included. But they were the first concert I went to without my parents, at a fest I don't think exists anymore called Maritime Days, and I successfully crowd surfed! Hugh and I also went to school with the drummer's kids and were in rival bands, although now his son is the drummer for Langhorne Slim, so I guess we lose, huh?

Have a great weekend everyone!!

C'mon Sloop John B

I just recently found out that "Sloop John B" was originally a traditional West Indies folk song, "The John B. Sails". It remains one of my favorite Beach Boys songs. And yes, it is a true fact that John Stamos, aka Uncle Jesse, was in the Beach Boys at one point in time.

Sticks and Stones

Maritime, another Milwaukee band gaining national success. Here is "Guns of Navarone".

Night & Day

I heard this song on XPN and at first I thought it was new Walkmen. But nope, alas, it was the band Chief with the song "Night & Day". Apparently, this song is on their album, 'Modern Rituals', being released early next week, which is getting some pretty solid early reviews:

Slackin Off

My post is pretty late today, in honor of "slacking" off here is a song by the sweet ska beats of 'The Slackers'. I also noticed they are coming to town in a couple of months to the Bottom Lounge. Maybe we can skank out our differences there!

Here's "Have the Time":

I Grew Up in a Small Town

So, here is a band called The Midwest Beat. I don't know too much about 'em, except, of course, that they are from Milwaukee. Yes, the Made in Milwaukee week is still happening. Upon finding this video for "Color Radio", I knew it was a catchy song but the vocals just don't quite make it into the mix, but the little that you can hear is good. I was about to say forget it and post a different song when at timestamp 1:56 I saw a familiar face. Someone I went to high school with. I had to re-watch that segment about 15 times but I'm pretty damn sure that Drew Delmenhorst is in this video. Yup, Milwaukee is a small town.

We also get a peek into one of the cool bars in Bayview, which is like the Wicker Park of Milwaukee, but minus all the douchebags and way more blue-collar. And the PBR is actually cheap!

Pinback - Fortress

This song is a few years old, but yet I still can't get sick of it. It's off of Pinback's 'Summer in Abaddon' - an album I've probably listened to over 500 times. Rumor is they have a new album that is coming out soon. Here is "Fortress":

It's a Drag

Continuing the Made in Milwaukee series that is this week comes a band called The Goodnight Loving. They've just released their 4th album, but this song, "Drag", comes off their 2008 self-titled record. They are labled as garage rock, but I see them more as psych-alt-country, whatever that means...

Made in Milwaukee

As Hugh has stated before, Milwaukee is finally getting some recognition in the music world. There have certainly been bands before from Mke that made it, but not necessarily as many as of late and not as "indie". This week, I want to highlight some of those local Milwaukee bands that are getting national attention and can really rock!

The first band to kick off my Made in Milwaukee week is Jaill, who has their latest album, That's How We Burn, coming out on SubPop Records. This song is called "Everyone's Hip". Even in Milwaukee? Listen and find out.

Case of the Mundays

So I didn't end up making it to Lollapalooza on Sunday, even after my full week pep-talk on this blog last week. I didn't get back into town until late and had no luck tracking down a discounted ticket. But, I hope everyone who went had a great time!

Coming back to work after being out a couple of days is never fun. Not to mention the gloomy weather and the fact that it's on Monday. Here is a song that kind of summarizes my mood at the moment -- it has a Doors 'Riders on the Storm' vibe to it. Here is "The Ghost Who Walks" by Karen Elson:

Retro? Friday

I debated whether or not to post a song for retro Friday from Paul Simon's Graceland because it doesn't necessarily feel very retro. The album is timeless and hasn't dated at all since its release in 1986. Two hundred years from now, people wouldn't be able to place when this album came out (apart from, perhaps, that wicked bass solo on "You Can Call Me Al").

This song is called "That Was Your Mother" and it recalls Louisiana zydeco music, just one of the many influences that shaped the album. When I listen to this song, I imagine myself at a sidewalk cafe in New Orleans, with a random street band belting this out, and then people just get up and start dancing and swinging each other around. Then I finish my beignet and pralines, take 2 shots of bourbon and join the dancing crowd yelling, "Hells yeah! It's summer y'all!"

Arcade's on Fire

New Arcade Fire = awesome. Sunday night will not disappoint.

Here is "Modern Man" off the new album:



Also, you can stream the full album over on NPR: http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=128878239

High Violet

I was lucky enough to see The National last night, and as always, they put on a fantastic show. I wish they would have played more off of their 3rd album, Alligator, but their new album, High Violet, is so good that I didn't really mind too much. This song is called "Anyone's Ghost" and was their opener last night. They make me feel good all over.

Let's Go Outside

It was raining all morning but now it's sunny, so let's go outside, shall we.

Trapped by Blizten

Blizten Trapper plays Sunday afternoon and I couldn't think of a better time for this alt-country/folk-rock group to play. I saw them play at Pitchfork and it was very enjoyable. Here is "Black River Killer":

Dispatch Do-Over

Remember that band Dispatch that you would hear blaring from speakers in every college dorm room in the early naughts? Well, they broke up, but one of the guys went on to form a band called State Radio, and it sure sounds a heckuva lot like Dispatch. But that's okay. I liked Dispatch. I haven't listened to them in over 6 years, but it's always a nice reminder of college and the depressing fact that they never made it as big as OAR. Barf. So here is State Radio with "Keepsake". If you watch Weeds, you should also recognize this song from season 3 when SPOILER: she burns down the house.

Japanese Metal?? Japanese Metal!!

This week I will continue to profile bands I'm excited to see on Sunday. X Japan is a band I recently heard about and knew I had to figure out a way to see. They are known for selling out arenas all over Asia in the late 80s and 90s and are the most influential Japanese metal band ever. They disbanded in 1997 but have recently gotten back together to melt our faces once again. I don't think I can write anything else to explain how amazing this will be, just watch this live video performance of "Kurenai":



AND a bonus song of the day!!! Silent Jealousy:

No Contest

Well, I have to admit that I saw Hugh's post and already knew there was no way I could pick a better song than "Ambling Amp" because that's probably my favorite song of the year so far. But I can at least try to introduce an interesting band.

They are called Small Black, they are from Brooklyn, and they really know how to rock old school casios. This song is called "Pleasant Experience".

Lolla Lolla Lolla Lolla Lolla

Gotta love Lollapalooza! $210 tickets! $10 beers! $6 bottles of water! 1 mile hikes in between stages!! YES!!!

I miss the early days of the revived Chicago Lollapalooza. Like most good things, it has gotten too large & corporate for its own good. But, there are still a ton of good bands coming and it should definitely be a good time (if you can afford the $200+ tickets).

I'm going to be out of town Fri/Sat, but I'm planning on making it back for the action packed Sunday. Arcade Fire will be worth admission by themselves, but luckily there are a bunch of other interesting acts that day. This week I'll concentrate here on those bands playing Sunday.

I missed Yeasayer when they played the Metro a few months ago, but I heard from multiple people that it was LOUD and AWESOME. I hope I give the same review after I see them this weekend -- here is "Ambling Alp":

You're So F**king Special

One of my all time favorites here, and Thom is doing a tremendous acoustic version. His royal hotness Johnny Depp and French popette Charlotte Gainsbourg add to the drama in this sweet little video. Happy retro Friday!!

Retro Friday - Birth of Rock n Roll

I always knew who Chuck Berry was and was familiar with a few of his songs (specifically Johnny B Goode from Back to the Future). However, I took a Rock n Roll history class in college that covered everything up until the british invasion. A full week was spent on Chuck Berry and I gained a full appreciation of his greatness and the path he set for everyone playing rock music today. I could listen to Mr. Berry any day of the week, here is one of my favs, "No Particular Place to Go":

The Hangover

I stayed out way too late last night, and in turn, have a killer hangover that I have to endure because I have a Spanish paper to finish. Anyway, I figured this song was appropriate...

"Try Watching this on Acid"

That's one of the comments on youtube - hilarious. Tame Imapala is bringing psychedelic rock back with heavy influences of Cream, Zeppelin, and Wu Tang. Here is "Half Full Glass of Wine":

Carrots are good for your vision

Flashing back to the 90s on this one, although this is a band I never listened to until recently. Just more proof of the 90s being one hell of a music decade.

Neutral Milk Hotel - The King of Carrot (flowers), Part 1:

The Scottish Are Coming!

Frightened Rabbit is a band from Scotland. Or maybe I should say that Frightened Rabbit is a Scottish band, because they do sound Scottish. I'm getting the sense that Glasgow is perhaps the new Brooklyn, where a lot of new indie bands are forming and writing good music. Scotland already has a good musical history because of bands like Belle and Sebastian, Franz Ferdinand, and my favorite, Camera Obscura. Now along with Frightened Rabbit, there are bands like We Were Promised Jetpacks and The Fratellis, among others that I can't think of now. I guess what I'm getting at is that Scotland seems like a pretty cool place, especially because it produces such kickass bands. Here's "I Feel Better".

3 Days Sober Begging for a Drink

Many of you probably know David Bazan as the singer/songwriter for Pedro the Lion, but in the last few years he has gone off on his own and been fairly successful. Except that my friend's brother said he went to see him live and nearly fell asleep it was so boring. Well, I wasn't at that show, so I guess it didn't have an effect on how much I like this guy. Bazan is also known as the Christian indie rocker, but after getting kicked out of a Christian music festival for being too wasted, he had words with God and then made a record about it called Curse Your Branches. His voice and style may not be up everyone's alley, but it's definitely worth a listen. This song is called "Please Baby, Please". (I could only find this live version, but it lives up to the recording)

We got Spirit, how bout you?

I gave Delta Spirit album "History from Below" a listen on my way to work. Now, I've kind of listened to it before and I'm familiar with a couple of Delta Spirit songs, but I never gave them a full chance. The song "911" kicks off the album and I think it's a great track.

I had trouble finding it on youtube, but I did finally find someone who uploaded it (even though they uploaded it with a picture of Dr Dog.. ah well!):

Come Back Baby

Good morning! Metric is definitely one of my favorite bands. Emily Haines has an amazing voice but seems completely cracked out onstage, but that's okay, as long as it sounds good. "Combat Baby" is off their second album, Old World Underground, Where Are You Now, which is arguably my favorite record of theirs, although Live It Out and Fantasies, their two latest records, boast a number of great tunes as well. I was surprised to see how few hits their earlier songs have on youtube, but perhaps that's only natural. In the comments section I read that this song will be on Rock Band 3, so now I'm even more excited for that game! Bring it!

Good Morning (Benders)!

Bleh - another Monday. This song will give you some positive vibes to get your week started off on the right foot. I chose a song from the Morning Benders awhile back - here is another track off of their 'Big Echo' album, "All day day light":

I love BLUR

Sometimes there are bands that are HUGE over in Europe but just never quite catch on stateside (Muse, Travis, Blur,etc...). People over here seem to think that Blur is a 1-hit wonder with Song #2 (Starship Troopers - YES!!!). But, Blur really has several hits and there is a ton of good stuff everyone is missing.

Damon Albarn from Blur is probably more well known in the states for his side-project, the Gorillaz. Hopefully he can get some more love for his old Blur stuff - here is "Chemical World" by Blur. Unfortunately I can't embed their music vid for this song:

Y'all Be Safe Now, Ya Hear!

I actually thought this song was something different, or maybe the beginning is just different, but now I can't think of the song I actually wanted to post, so this is what you get for Retro Friday!! I was watching some old Max Headroom Coke commercials and got into a very 80s mood this morning. I wouldn't exactly think to make this video into a renaissance film, but that's what happened, so I hope you enjoy the absurdity of the video as well. I know nothing about Men Without Hats, only that they sing "The Safety Dance", which I think is that thing where you box your arms around your head like when doing the Robot. At least I think I saw the guy doing that...Happy Friday everyone!

They Are Not Scientists!

My friend and I went to see We Are Scientists at Bottom Lounge last night. The show was pretty good, but lacked energy, not from onstage but from the crowd. Kids just don't know how to make a good show these days. Plus, this band tries waaaay too hard to be cool, which in turn makes them not so... I haven't heard their latest album and I wasn't a huge fan of their last album, so I'm going to post a song of their first album, which I hold dearly to my heart.

Wake up! It's a Beautiful Morning!

I wish it was. Instead it's overcast and looks like it's gonna start pouring any minute. This NY duo, "The Drums" has the right idea though - let's go surfing!

I've Got a Case of the Shambles

Sorry this post is so late. My life is still sort of in shambles since the move and everything. Plus my internet is still pretty slow and spotty. I'll be surprised if this makes it up. Anywhoot, enjoy this Pete Doherty non-Libertines song with Babyshambles.

Take me Home

It's On Bitches!

Broken Social Scene was another band I enjoyed catching at Pitchfork. I first got into this band back in 2003 because their first record, You Forgot It In People, really blew me away. I still like their music, but nothing they've done since has affected me in such a strong way. "Texaco Bitches" is off their new record and is an enjoyable little jaunt. Can you count the number of people onstage?

We must go back to the future, marty!!

How is today only Tuesday? Ughh.

I really dig this tune and the video is pretty sweet as well. Vicky probably knows more about these guys than I do - they are Spanish. I really like the band name and wish I owned a Delorean so I could do some time traveling. I'd travel into the future through the rest of this week.

Sonny Sure Sounds Sunny

Sonny and the Sunsets were possibly my favorite band that I saw at Pitchfork over the weekend. I had only heard one song when I went to see them, but their show made me want to go out and buy anything they've ever recorded. Based out of San Francisco, these guys (and lady) really know how to convey a sunny, 50s garage pop sound while still keeping it all fresh and new.

OK, OK.. It's not OK!

I'm the worst guest ever... yesterday I needed a reminder to post. Today I visited the site to vote, saw there was only 1 song up and then realized that it was ME who screwed up..... AGAIN.

Ok, so its retro Friday. And since I'm 5hrs late with my post, I had the luxury of seeing Hugh's post already. So, I thought I'd pick a similar contender. I'm going with the wonderful one-hit-wonders of 1996, Spacehog and their little number "In the Meantime." For all my fellow living-room rockers, this song will be in RockBand 3 and GuitarHero 5.

Happy Friday!!

Decide to walk with me

This song rocks. 90s alt-rock might go down as the best genre of my lifetime. It's hard to think anything will ever top it:

Ticket Madness

Thanks to Vicky for giving me the honor of filling in.
As Hugh mentioned, Pitchfork Music Festival is this weekend.  I sort of hate Pitchfork, and sort of love them.  They're great for uncovering excellent new music.  They're also great at shitting on bands you love, writing obnoxious reviews and being arrogant asses.  Yet, I just waited in line with 952 uber-hipsters for a previously sold-out Sunday ticket.

This is Surfer Blood, with a sort of old-weezer meets beach boys sounding song called "Swim."  They'll be playing Sunday, along with Big-Boi and a bunch of other good stuff. There is an official video for this song, but you would have to watch some commercial first.