Grant Manship

New MP3 from The Fireman

First we were blessed with new material from David Byrne and Brian Eno on Everything That Happens Will Happen Today.  Now we have the first new music from The Fireman in 10 years and this time the album will feature vocals!  In case you're unaware of who The Fireman are it's Paul McCartney and Killing Joke bassist Youth.  The album is called Electric Arguments and consists of thirteen tracks recorded in thirteen days over the period of nearly a year.  The duo spent one day writing and recording per song and the results are much different than their previous ambient material.  You can check out the first single off Electric Arguments below.  Rumor has it that the song is a diss track aimed at Sir Paul's ex-wife, whatever her name was.

• The Fireman - "Nothing Too Much Just Out Of Sight" from Electric Arguments

Danielson Releases Danielson Alive! EP for Free

'Tis the Season of Danielson and that means some free goodies for all of you on the good list.  The EP consists of six classic Danielson tracks which were originally recorded during various live shows and radio broadcast performances including CBC's famous "Real Art Ways" program and venerable VPRO Dutch Radio.  You can preview a couple of the tracks off the EP below or just go ahead and download the whole thing here.

• Danielson - "Flesh Thang" from Danielson Alive! EP
• Danielson - "Southern Paws" from Danielson Alive! EP

MidPoint Music Festival - Day 2 Preview

I had prior commitments that kept me from getting too into Day 1 of MidPoint but now I'm free enjoy the remainder of the festivities!  With that being said, I thought I'd briefly highlight a few of the artists I'm most excited to see tonight.  They are as follows:

Say Hi - 10:00 PM - Aronoff 5/3 Theater

Eric Elbogen, who is Say Hi, currently resides in Seattle, WA.  After relocating to Seattle, Elbogen wrote he most recent record The Wishes And The Glitch at his home studio during most of last year.  While it was mostly Eric doing his thing alone, John Roderick of The Long Winters and David Bazan from Pedro The Lion/Headphones also lent their voices on a couple of tracks for The Wishes.  Say Hi's music is full of keyboards blips, skittering drums and bass along with plenty of catchy vocal melodies.  Needless to say, it's great stuff.

• Say Hi - "Northwestern Girls" from The Wishes And The Glitch

A.A. Bondy - 11:00 PM - Know Theatre Main Stage

AA Bondy (a.k.a. Scott Bondy) used to play with Verbena prior to stepping out on his own.  Following the dissolution of the band, Bondy moved to the Catskills and was about to leave music behind.  That was until the creative juices began to flow once again and he started recording the songs that would make up American Hearts.

The record bring about thoughts of Harry Nilsson or Harvest-era Neil Young.  Sounds like the perfect set to balance the electronic vibe of Say Hi.

• A.A. Bondy - "There's A Reason" from American Hearts

Buffalo Killers - 12:00 AM - Lodge Bar

I plan on rounding out my night by catching Cincinnati's very own Buffalo Killers.  I've been a big fan of the band's psychedelic southern rock after seeing them open for their buddies The Black Crowes a year or so ago.  Their latest album Let It Ride is a perfect representation of the aforementioned genre.  The following song sounds like the music I imagine would come from the genetically engineered love child of David Bowie and Joe Walsh.  The vocals really remind me of Joe Walsh which is great since he's the only Eagle whose solo material can make me forget how much I hate the Eagles.

• Buffalo Killers - "If I Get Myself Anywhere" from Let It Ride

Solo Debut From BMSR Member Tobacco

As many of you know I'm a big fan of Black Moth Super Rainbow.  If you're also a fan of the band, then you know Tobacco well.  As a member of BMSR he contributed to one of last year's, or any year for that matter, most shockingly interesting records, Dandelion Gum.  Under the Tobacco moniker his solo material is much darker than his work with BMSR.  Make no mistake about it though, it doesn't sound like someone who isn't a member of BMSR made this record.  The unique sounds found on the band's records are present here in spades.  You can hear what I'm talking about on the standout tracks "Dirt" (featuring Aesop Rock) and "Truck Sweat" below.  His debut, Fucked Up Friends, is due October 14th from Anticon Records.

• Tobacco - "Dirt" from Fucked Up Friends
• Tobacco - "Truck Sweat" from Fucked Up Friends

Passion Pit

I've been feeling a little uninspired when it comes to writing about the stuff that's come across my desk for the last week or so.  There is some good stuff but nothing that's really struck me and left me wanting to hear more.  It's only fitting that a group called Passion Pit would make me a little more passionate about getting my blog on.  I should have known a little electropop would cure whatever was ailing me!

As their bio states, Passion Pit is the brainchild of Michael Angelakos and their recent EP Chunk of Change was born out his need for a Valentine's Day gift for his special lady friend.  It then made its way into the hands of friends and fellow students at Emerson College. At some point along the way Frenchkiss Records got a hold of it and is now reissuing the EP next week with two bonus tracks called “Better Things” and “Sleepyhead”.  A full length debut is in the works for sometime early next year.  You can check out "Sleepyhead" off the EP below.

• Passion Pit - "Sleepyhead" from Chunk of Change

Get Your Free Digital EP From Grampall Jookabox

A few weeks ago, I suggested calling Grampall Jookabox's brand of music, "folk-hop."  Word from Asthmatic Kitty suggests he is a, "ghetto-folkster."  Pretty close right?  Today, we get a better glimpse into just exactly what a ghetto-folkster sounds like with the release of Grampall's free digital EP called Rill Bruh.

The EP contains the previously posted "The Girl Ain't Preggers" in addition to seven other tracks.  You can download the EP here or, if you want to listen before you leap, check out "Air Penance" below.  It sounds like this track's narrative does a nice job of  picking up the theme of family turmoil where "The Girl Ain't Preggers" left off.

• Grampall Jookabox - "Air Penance" from Rill Bruh EP

New MP3 from School of Seven Bells

If you missed my prior mention of School of Seven Bells or are unfamiliar with the group, they are Ben Curtis (formerly of the Secret Machines) and twin sisters, Alejandra Deheza and Claudia Deheza who previously were a part of On!Air!Library!.

When I first heard a track from the band, I believe it was "Chains", I think I remember feeling as if it was the Secret Machines but with an obvious feminine touch.  Now that I've heard their new album Alpinisms in its entirety I realize that such a generalization couldn't be further from the truth.  While there are small elements of Ben's prior gig that show up now and then, School of Seven Bells is an entirely different animal.  The Secret Machines sometimes strike me as being somewhat formulaic.  I don't mean that in a bad way, it's a very complex formula but a formula nonetheless.  What strikes me about School of Seven Bells is the range of feelings and/or emotions that come out of the record.  Maybe it's the dichotomy between the male/female aspects of the band and the perspectives each camp brings to the music.  Maybe it's just the excitement of the new creative outlet the members have found that comes through.  Regardless of what it is, it works for me.  Whether it's a track like "White Elephant Coat" and it's Dead Souls-inspired bass line or the very danceable "Connjur", I'd say there is plenty here for everyone.

Finally, to Ben in regards to his new bandmates.  Well played sir!!!  Your new bandmates are exponentially more easy on the eyes than your former ones.  At least for the heterosexual male portion of your fanbase that is.  No offense to Brandon or Josh but come on!  I think I might have a new crush or two in the world of indie music.  Now that I've said that, let's return to what is really important and also less likely to get me in trouble with my girlfriend.  Here is a track from Alpinisms, due out October 28th, for your listening pleasure.

• School of Seven Bells - "Connjur" from Alpinisms

New MP3 from The Secret Machines

It's been over 2 years since The Secret Machines released Ten Silver Drops and after losing one of their founding members, we're finally going to get a glimpse into what they've been working on since then.  I've been curious to see how things will sound after the departure of one-half of the Curtis brothers, and founding member, Benjamin Curtis would effect the band.  If you're unaware of Benjamin leaving, he left a little over a year ago to focus on work with his other band School of Seven Bells.  From the sound of the track below, The Secret Machines are going to be just fine.  It's over 8 minutes of classic Secret Machine space rock.

The band is planning on releasing the follow-up to Ten Silver Drops through their own TSM Recordings with the help of World's Fair.  While this track is a non-album b-side you will eventually be able to pick it up on limited edition vinyl later this year.  For those of you who are fans of instant gratification, check it out now down below.  The self-titled Secret Machines is due out on Oct. 14th.

• Secret Machines - "Dreaming of Dreaming" [non-album b-side]

These United States Playing Cincinnati Tomorrow

Our friends over at Each Note Secure are gearing up to present DC psych-folk act These United States tomorrow night at the Gypsy Hut.  The band is touring in anticipation of the release of their new album Crimes due out Sept. 23rd.  You can hear a track from Crimes as well as one from they're excellent debut A Picture Of The Three Of Us At The Gates To The Garden Of Eden below.

If that's not enough to get you off the couch the band will also be supported by not one, but two, great local acts in the Seedy Seeds and Wake the Bear.  So... unless you have something really important going on tomorrow night, I guess I'll see you at the Gypsy Hut.

• These United States - "West Won" from Crimes
• These United States - "The Business" from A Picture Of The Three Of Us At The Gates To The Garden Of Eden

Richard Swift Releases Free Digital EP

Richard Swift just released his new EP Ground Trouble Jaw and being the swell guy that he is, he's giving it away for free through eMusic.

The EP is classic Swift through and through.  As the press release for the EP states, "the five tracks run the gamut from 60s girl group pop to Motown soul to Onasis-flavored 50s street gang doo-wop to synth-fueled pop classics (think Prince sitting in on the "Plastic Ono" sessions) - all with Swift's emerging trademark vocals which bring his songs to life like few other singers do today."  If you've been living under a rock and are somehow unfamiliar with Mr. Swift, download this.  Seriously.  The guy is brilliant and there isn't any reason why he shouldn't take over the world soon.  It's better that you're up to speed on things when that finally happens so like I said, pick this up.

I'd have to say my favorite tracks are "Would You" and "Lady Luck".  I've listened to both tracks at least 10 times since downloading the EP this morning.  Make sure you check them out below before you inevitably proceed to download the whole EP.  Speaking of downloading it, if you have trouble with the eMusic link you can download a zip file with all the tracks ready to go here, courtesy of yours truly.  Enjoy!

• Richard Swift - "Would You" from Ground Trouble Jaw
• Richard Swift - "Lady Luck" from Ground Trouble Jaw

The Walkmen Release You & Me Early for Charity

The Walkmen have decided to release their highly anticipated new album You & Me exclusively through Amie Street as part of the website’s new Download To Make A Difference campaign.  Amie Street is definitely one of the more innovative music sites to emerge in the last couple of years and their Download To Make A Difference campaign is no different. 

The way it works is You & Me will be sold for a period of three weeks, prior to its official release, at the special price of $5. For each album purchased Amie Street will donate $5 to a cause of personal significance to The Walkmen.  Specifically, "All donations go to Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center in honor of Luca Vasallo, a friend to the band and a current patient who is seven months old and doing a great job fighting a very difficult disease,” said Peter Bauer of The Walkmen. “This is a very good organization that certainly deserves the attention.”

The You & Me exclusive pre-release marks the second major release for the Download To Make A Difference campaign, which gives people the chance to support important causes by downloading new music.  To download You & Me and give $5 to a great cause go to AmieStreet.com/thewalkmen now!  The album is really wonderful and is worth every penny especially when you consider it will go to such a great cause.

• The Walkmen - "In The New Year" from You & Me

Grampall Jookabox

Indianapolis-based artist Grampall Jookabox (aka David Adamson) has signed to Asthmatic Kitty who, along with Joyful Noise, will release his new album Ropechain on Nov. 4th.  After listening to some of the tracks off the record I wasn't sure how to categorize it.  I'm not sure there really is a category for it.  There are obvious influences of hip-hop but plenty of lo-fi folk and blues as well.  Maybe folk-hop would work.  Anyway, I'll let the music speak for itself.  I caution you though, it gets to be pretty infectious so prepare to have this track on repeat for a while.

• Grampall Jookabox - "The Girl Ain't Preggers" from Ropechain

New MP3 from The Walkmen

Here is a preview of what's sure to be another great album from the Walkmen.  You & Me is due out on August 19th.

• The Walkmen - "In The New Year" from You & Me
  

New MP3 from Parenthetical Girls

I shared an OMD cover from Parenthetical Girls with you all a few weeks ago and now I have a track off their new album Entanglements for you as well.  I must admit, I wasn't all that familiar with the band prior to the aforementioned OMD cover but ever since then I've been anxiously waiting the record.  Entanglements will be released on September 9th via Tomlab.  If the song below is any indication it's going to be ridiculously good.

• Parenthetical Girls - "A Song for Ellie Greenwich" from Entanglements

New Lackthereof

Menomena drummer Danny Seim is getting ready to release his ninth album of lo-fi electronic material courtesy of his Lackthereof side project.  Being a big fan of Menomena this is an obvious addition to the list of things I can't wait to hear.  The album is called Your Anchor and will be out July 22nd on Barsuk Records.  You can hear one of the tracks off the album below.

• Lackthereof - "Last November" from Your Anchor

New MP3 From Dr. Dog's Fate

Here is the first single off Dr. Dog's upcoming release Fate.  I absolutely can't wait for this record.  It'll be out July 22nd on Park the Van in case you've been sleeping under a rock and didn't know.

• Dr. Dog - "The Ark" from Fate

Chromeo On Kimmel Plus An MP3

In preparation for the release of the deluxe version of Fancy Footwork, Chromeo hit Jimmy Kimmel's outdoor stage a week or so ago to perform the title track from the album.  Not only was it a great performance but it looks like the duo is doing their best to keep a few of the Simply Irresistible girls employed in today's less than stellar economy.  That combined with their homage to the video for Money for Nothing with their "Bonafide Lovin" video show the guys are doing their best to carry the torch for some of the '80s most iconic stars.  Check out the video below.

Finally, the deluxe version of the album includes several remixes by the likes of MSTRKRFT, Crookers, Yuksek and several others.  You can hear Yuksek's remix of the aforementioned "Bonafide Lovin" below and if you like what you hear, pre-order a copy to show your support for the electrofunk masters.  I'm sure David would appreciate the help while he tries to pay for that Ph.D. in French Literature from Columbia!

• Chromeo - "Bonafide Lovin" from Fancy Footwork [Yuksek Remix]

MGMT Get Remixed by Justice

We've already heard Jorge Elbrecht's remix of "Time to Pretend" and now it's time for Justice to try their hand at remixing MGMT.  Below you'll find the Parisians remix of "Electric Feel" which, based on the number of times played on repeat, is probably my favorite track off of Oracular Spectacular.

Walter Meego

After listening to Walter Meego's new album Voyager for the first time it struck me I likely just listened to what will serve as the sound of summer for hipsters everywhere (or at the very least the soundtrack to the newest Heineken commercial). 

I'll be the first to admit that I'm a total sucker for electro-pop and if you're anything like me, you'll have several tracks off the record stuck in your head throughout the coming months.  Here are a couple of tracks for your listening pleasure and the subsequent popping and locking.

• Walter Meego - "Forever" from Voyager
• Walter Meego - "Girls" from Voyager

New MP3 from David Vandervelde

David Vandervelde is getting ready to release the follow-up to his first record on Secretly Canadian this August.  Considering that The Moonstation House Band was one of my favorite records from 2007, I'm looking forward to his next outing. 

After relocating from Chicago to Brooklyn, David holed up in his apartment with his acoustic guitar to write most of the music on the album.  The album, entitled Waiting for the Sunrise, is being described as a more rootsy effort, reminiscent of the classic, sentimental pop of the 70's.  Check out a track off the record, due August 5th, below.

• David Vandervelde - "I Will Be Fine" from Waiting for the Sunrise

Preview from Dr. Dog's New Album

Here is a track from Dr. Dog's new album Fate which will be released July 22nd.  This is another one of my most anticipated releases of the year.  Be sure to check out the tour dates listed on their MySpace page and catch one of the MANY shows they'll be playing this summer.

• Dr. Dog - "The Old Days" from Fate

New MP3 from Albert Hammond, Jr.

Como Te Llama?, due July 8th, is the new album from Albert Hammond, Jr. and his band of thieves Matt Romano, Marc Philippe Eskenazi and Josh Lattanzi.  I would be lying if I said I wasn't extremely excited for this record. 

Where Yours to Keep was primarily dominated by a bright and airy SoCal sound presumably culled from Albert's youth spent on the West Coast, Como Te Llama? has subtle hints of The Kinks, The Clash and Crazy Horse-era Neil Young.  The album, recorded over 5 weeks at Electric Lady Studios, is full of heavy riffs, charming instrumentals and that ever-present reggae-bounce. 

Not one to rest on his laurels, this album will exhibit Albert's attempt to make the boldest, most ambitious follow-up record possible following his much-acclaimed debut.  One reason for the increased eclecticism of Como Te Llama? stems from the infusion of Albert's band into the creative process.  This differs from the recording of Yours To Keep where Albert had a mostly complete vision of what his first record would sound like and a nice batch of songs with which to make it happen.  With a blank canvas and such a wide array of interesting personalities contributing, a superbly unique and wholly different result was bound to come out of the recording process. 

“GfC” will be the first single from the album and from the sound of it, it's a superb choice to get things started.  Judge for yourself below.

• Albert Hammond, Jr. - "GfC" from Como Te Llama?

Parenthetical Girls Cover OMD

Parenthetical Girls, also known as (((GRRRLS))), are a few months away from releasing their new full-length, Entanglements.  The album will be released by Tomlab on Sept. 9th, 2008.

While you're waiting to get your hands on Entaglements, here is a non-album track.  It's a cover of OMD's "Joan of Arc (Maid of Orleans)" from their Architecture & Morality album and I think it's reaallllly good.  Be sure to check it out below.

• Parenthetical Girls - "Joan of Arc (Maid of Orleans)" [OMD Cover]

New MP3 from Au

A second track Au's second record, Verbs, landed in my inbox today.  While Au has just recently appeared on my radar I'm looking forward to this record based on what I've heard.  "Are Animals" (which is serves as part 2 of the album's lead-off track "All My Friends") features a 21 person choir, including members of tons of different Portland bands, including Yellow Swans, Parenthetical Girls, A Weather, Gulls, Evolutionary Jass Band, Ah Holly Fam'ly, etc.

Aside from "Are Animals" you can also check out another track from Verbs, "RR vs. D,"  below.  The album is due out on Aagoo Records June 26th.

• Au - "Are Animals" from Verbs
• Au - "RR vs. D" from Verbs

MGMT Get Remixed

Jorge Elbrecht, of the psychedelic-pop band Violens, has remixed MGMT's "Time To Pretend" into a darker, more solemn version of the original.  The feeling of the remix seems to more accurately reflect the story at the heart of the lyrics.  Specifically, the feelings of not quite living up to your expectations of the prime of your life and only having the morning commute to look forward to.  I think most of us have been able to relate to that at some point during our lives haven't we???  Thankfully MGMT is normally all about cheering us up!  Alright, check out the remix below.  I've already added it to my MGMT playlist that's been on constant repeat lately. 

Also, make sure to click through to the Violens page and check them out.  I've been hearing a lot about them lately and after only my initial listen I think their psych-pop sounds really good.  You can check out a track from their debut release below if you're too lazy to click on the above link.

• MGMT - "Time To Pretend" from Oracular Spectacular [Remix]
• Violens - "Violent Sensation Descends" from Violens EP

New NIN Album Available Now For Free!

Radiohead left it up to you but Trent has decided for you.  You will take the album for free and you will like it.  Yes, that's right!  At some point this morning Trent Reznor took his experimentation with releases to a new level and decided to give away his new album The Slip away for absolutely nothing.  The note from NIN is as follows:

as a thank you to our fans for your continued support, we are giving away the new nine inch nails album one hundred percent free, exclusively via nin.com.

the music is available in a variety of formats including high-quality MP3, FLAC or M4A lossless at CD quality and even higher-than-CD quality 24/96 WAVE.  your link will include all options - all free. all downloads include a PDF with artwork and credits.

for those of you interested in physical products, fear not. we plan to make a version of this release available on CD and vinyl in july. details coming soon.

So what are you waiting for?  Pick up your free swag here.

The Super Desserts

I've been spending an uncharacteristically large amount of time on MySpace lately.  Not because I'm trying to make new friends but because I can't stop listening to the tracks posted on the page of Columbus, OH band the Super Desserts. 

While I kicked around the idea of using several dessert inspired puns to describe the band I've decided to spare you all.  That being said, the band does describe their sound as sounding like butterscotch frosting and their genre(s) as being pop, pop and yes... pop!  As you can probably tell, you won't hear many somber numbers from the band.  Just like some tasty, super dessert their songs are sure to put a smile on your face.  They might even put you into an awesome diabetic coma!

• The Super Desserts - "Funeral" from Bring On The Super Desserts
• The Super Desserts - "Banjo Forever" from Bring On The Super Desserts
• The Super Desserts - "Fashion" from Bring On The Super Desserts

New My Morning Jacket - Evil Urges

My Morning Jacket just sent out an email with a link for a free download of the title track off their new album Evil Urges.  If you're interested in getting your hands on it go here and type in "urges101" when prompted.

New My Brightest Diamond - Inside A Boy

Here's the first glimpse into My Brightest Diamond's new album A Thousand Shark's Teeth.  While the album was supposed to have a more classical feel, "Inside A Boy" and its crunching guitars juxtaposed with the strings and Shara's voice show the work has morphed into something entirely different.  The song has a sense of urgency that, if it's an indication of the rest of the record, means A Thousand Shark's Teeth will most likely be at the top of several year end lists.  Asthmatic Kitty will release the record on June 17th so mark your calendars.

• My Brightest Diamond - "Inside A Boy" from A Thousand Shark's Teeth

Panda Bear Is Comfy In Nautica And On The Dance Floor

Panda Bear approached the release of his 2007 solo album Person Pitch like a dance album in that almost all of the tracks were released as vinyl singles leading up to the album's debut.  Now "Comfy In Nautica" has been completely overhauled into a full-on dance floor track by XXXChange (SpankRock, Kid Sister, Amanda Blank).

• Panda Bear - "Comfy In Nautica" from Person Pitch [XXXChange Remix]

Man Man Appreciation

I can't say enough good things about Man Man.  They're easily one of my favorite bands out today.  Each time I've seen them live seems to be progressively better than the last and considering how blown away I was the first time, that's saying something. 

The last time the band played at the Southgate House I spoke with Ryan (a.k.a. Honus Honus) for a little while about music, touring, the band's label search, etc...  He was gracious enough to let me listen to a few of the early demos for Rabbit Habits he had on his iPod.  Needless to say, the gesture made my night if not week, month, or year.  I was lucky enough to get through several songs while the band broke down their gear and was really impressed by what I heard even at that stage in the process.  From listening to the tracks it was apparent that Rabbit Habits is going to be an amazing album.  He asked what I thought and I don't think I could have come up with anything bad to say even if I tried.

In anticipation for their new record on their new label, Anti- Records, I figured I would post a couple of the tracks that have been released prior to the April 8th release date.  "Top Drawer" showed up a while ago and Stereogum debuted "Hurly/Burly" in this week's 'Gum Drop.  Enjoy!

• Man Man - "Hurly/Burly" from Rabbit Habits
• Man Man - "Top Drawer" from Rabbit Habits

Awesome Color Sound Awesome!

Sorry, I couldn't resist using that title for this post.  The power trio that is Awesome Color currently reside in Brooklyn but originally hail from Michigan where they met in Ann Arbor.  I'm sure Ann Arbor's favorite son Iggy Pop as well as the spirits of the legendary MC5 to the east are proud of what they're hearing from the group.

It's also occurred to me that since the University of Michigan and Ohio State are such bitter rivals maybe Awesome Color joined the fray to serve as an answer, or should I say a shot across the bow, to the Buckeye state's very own Times New Viking.  That's certainly a battle of the bands I'd like to see!  Somebody get to work on that double bill asap. 

Awesome Color's second album Electric Aborigines is due out April 29th on Thurston Moore's Ecstatic Peace! label.  Check out one of the tracks from the album below.

• Awesome Color - "Eyes of Light" from Electric Aborigines

Richard Swift Doubles Up With Double EP

Richard Swift is back with a new double EP Richard Swift As Onasis, due out April 8, 2008, which should wet everyone's appetite until he releases his second full-length, and proper follow-up to last year's exceptional Dressed Up For The Letdown.

The EP's serve as a study of a bygone era when the main purpose of a record was to capture an artist's performance instead of focusing on the cutting, pasting, and auto-correcting we get from todays studio wizardry.  Mr. Swift conjures up Howlin' Wolf and Little Richard and throws in a touch of his Instruments of Science & Technology side for good measure.  Check out a couple of the tracks below!

• Richard Swift - "Phone Coffins" from Richard Swift As Onasis
• Richard Swift - "Knee High Boogie Blues" from Richard Swift As Onasis

Megafaun Prep Debut

If you're a fan of Akron/Family you'll probably dig their recent tourmates Megafaun and their brand of experimental folk music.  You can check out a track from their upcoming debut below.  Make sure to pick up the album when it come out Feb. 19th on the new Radium imprint from Table of the Elements.

• Megafaun - "Lazy Suicide" from Bury the Square

Dr. Dog Releasing Rare Tracks

Dr. Dog is getting ready to release a collection of rare tracks on March 4th via Park the Van Records.  The tracks were originally made available as unmastered streaming audio on the band’s website.  The re-mastered tracks on the album, entitled Passed Away, are a lo-fi assortment of 4-track recordings made over the past five years. 

The album will have to help tie the fans over as they eagerly await the release of Dr. Dog's new studio album later this year.  You can hear one of the tracks off of Passed Away below.

• Dr. Dog - "A Long Time Ago" from Passed Away

Panther Preps New Album

Floor dancing specialist Panther is ready to release the follow-up to Secret Lawns with the upcoming 14kt God.  The new album finds Panther venturing into new territory on songs like "Violence, Diamonds" and "Beautiful Condo" which both have political undertones.  That being said,  there are plenty of instances where you'll find yourself dancing to anthems about sexual obsessiveness and airplane paranoia showing that Panther is still wild and ready to pounce.  Make sure to mark your calendars for Feb. 19 when the album is due out on Kill Rock Stars.

• Panther - "Violence, Diamonds" from 14kt God
• Panther - "Puerto Rican Jukebox" from 14kt God

New Music from No Kids

Tomlab artists No Kids are coming out with a new record called Come Into My House on Feb. 19th.  I've got two tracks off the album available for your listening pleasure and if that's not enough, David Byrne  is streaming some more tracks at his website.  Enjoy!

• No Kids - "For Halloween" from Come Into My House
• No Kids - "The Beaches All Closed" from Come Into My House

WHY? Prep New Release, Cover The Cure

WHY? are getting ready to release Alopecia on March 11 and then go on their most ambitious headlining tour yet to follow-up 2007's The Hollows EP. You can check out their cover of The Cure's "Close To Me" below as well as the title track from last year's EP.  You'll also want to mark your calendars for March 29th as they'll be performing live at the Southgate House.

• WHY? - "Close To Me" Cure Cover
• WHY? - "The Hollows" from The Hollows EP

New Music from Del the Funky Homosapien

Del the Funky Homosapien has leaked a new track from his upcoming album Eleventh Hour to be released on March 11th via everyone's favorite independent hip-hop label, Definitive Jux records.  The track is called “Bubble Pop” and serves as the first glimpse into Del’s long awaited solo follow-up to a string of popular albums released in the 1990s as well as projects like 2000’s Deltron 3030 and 2001’s Gorillaz album.  The album is eight years in the making and will not disappoint.  Check out the track below.

• Del the Funky Homosapien - "Bubble Pop" from Eleventh Hour

New Music from Evangelicals

Here is the first single from Evangelicals upcoming album The Evening Descends.  The track is called "Skeleton Man" and has long been a part of Evangelicals live shows.  Here, however, we have the final, polished version that will be a part of The Evening Descends.  Enjoy!

• Evangelicals - "Skeleton Man" from The Evening Descends

Thao Nguyen

The following MP3's from Thao Nguyen's upcoming release, We Brave Bee Stings, count as the most entertaining material to land in my inbox in 2008 so far.  Since that's the case, I figured I should share them with all of you. 

The tracks on We Brave Bee Stings are packed with upbeat melodies, horns, Thao's intricate guitar work, as well as her cynical and self-deprecating sense of humor.  I think it's safe to say she's definitely come a long way from writing songs for the sole purpose of accompanying her favorite TV shows as a kid.  The album is due out Jan. 29th from Kill Rock Stars so mark your calendars.

• Thao Nguyen - "Beat (Health, Life and Fire)" from We Brave Bee Stings
• Thao Nguyen - "Bag of Hammers" from We Brave Bee Stings

My Favorite Albums of 2007

With 2007 actually being over, I guess I should probably get around to posting my favorite records of last year.  With that being said, here's my list of favorite albums of 2007 in no particular order.

The National - Boxer - I'm not ranking these albums because they've all been #1 in my mind at one point or another during the year but Boxer definitely ranks as one of the most consistent listens for me since its release.  The band is as amazing live as they are on record and should be commended for creating such a great album.

Black Moth Super Rainbow - Dandelion Gum - With this album being a loosely based concept record about forest dwelling witches, with each song representing a different candy-induced freakout, how can this not make the list?  The album gave me plenty to chew on during the year.

• Black Moth Super Rainbow - "Forever Heavy" from Dandelion Gum

Okkervil River - The Stage Names - In my mind, this should be the album that provides Okkervil River with entry into the general public's consciousness.  The bands seemingly endless ability to improve with every album shows the abundance of their talent.  If you don't believe how good this band is, maybe you'll take Lou Reed's word for it who has been shouting the praises of the band for a couple years now.

• Okkervil River - "Our Life Is Not a Movie or Maybe" from The Stage Names
  

Feist - The Reminder - In what certainly has to be one of the biggest successes of the year, Feist has firmly landed in everyone's  consciousness and is no longer just for the cool kids.   That is, unless some of you happen to live under a rock and entirely missed the super-catchy "1234" pop up in the iPod ad.  As wonderfully catchy as "1234" is, it's not even my favorite track on the record. 

Of Montreal - Hissing Fauna, Are You The Destroyer? - Kevin Barnes and Co. returned with yet another album full of reasons why there is no one like them currently making music.

• Of Montreal - "Gronlandic Edit" from Hissing Fauna, Are You The Destroyer?

Menomena - Friend and Foe - With a more polished, and even more complex, sound than the one found on I Am the Fun Blame Monster! this album was an instant favorite of mine this year.  The record places the band on the same levels as TV on the Radio or Radiohead as far as creativity goes.

• Menomena - "Wet And Rusting" from Friend and Foe

David Vandervelde - The Moonstation House Band - Considering that "Nothin' No" is one of my favorite tracks of the year, if not one of my all-time favorites considering I almost wore the record out repeating the track, I couldn't leave this album off my list.  That's not to say "Nothin' No" is the only reason you'll fall in love with this record either.  The Moonstation House Band is full of reasons why there should be plenty of exciting things to come from Mr. Vandervelde.

• David Vandervelde - "Jacket" from The Moonstation House Band

Odawas Tell Lies for Christmas

It's been a big year for the Odawas with the release of their second album Raven, and The White Night in March.  This year has also seen a decrease in Brad Cash's role in the band after moving to North Carolina and  Michael Tapscott and Isaac Edwards moving to Chicago.  While it's been a busy year, that hasn't stopped them from prepping a Christmas tune for you all to enjoy.

Maybe I shouldn't say enjoy.  We all know that the holidays can be a stressful time of year and this song is specifically for anyone with a case of the Christmas blues.  The song was originally crafted for Odawas front man, Michael Tapscott's side project More Animals Of The Arctic and has now been lovingly remixed with  a new mix by Isaac Edwards and vocals from Mr. Tapscott.  Instead of enjoying it, just kick back and let it soothe those wintry ills.

• Odawas - "I Tell Lies" from Odawas Christmas Remix

Danielson Gets Ready For Christmas Eve Nite

Danielson is getting into the Christmas spirit with a new Christmas song called "Christmas Eve Nite" as part of his label Sounds Familyre's digital compilation "A Familyre Christmas".  A choir of children help Danielson on this organ-driven carol about the restless wait for Santa and Christmas morning.  You can hear the track below. 

After giving it a listen, make sure you go here to get the rest of the compilation.  The album will contain new interpretations of traditional Christmas carols as well as original songs.  There will be a new song posted each day for thirteen days with seven up so far.  The best part is the songs are all free to download so you can make A Familyre Christmas - Vol. 1 CDs for stocking stuffers!

• Danielson - "Christmas Eve Nite" from A Familyre Christmas - Vol. 1

White Williams

There was a flurry of blog activity about  White Williams a few months ago but I never got a chance to really give the music a listen.  Now that I have I think I love it!  As far as the delay in getting around to it, better late than never right?  I mean, if anything, I should give the man some kind of recognition since he's a graduate of Cincinnati's very own DAAP.  Cincinnati and an unwitting resident were also the source of inspiration for the the album cover seen at left.  Mr. Williams told Dazed magazine the cover was inspired by the story of, "a girl from Cincinnati, who was really upset about something, a boy or something, and she was bawling over it but it didn't keep her from hitting from this bong."  Sounds about right...  Anyway, I finally got a chance to listen to what all the fuss was about and I'm pretty disappointed in myself.  This should have been in heavy rotation around my place for quite some time now.  I guess I have a lot of catching up to do.

There's plenty to keep my ears busy here with the perfect touch of T. Rex, Beck, etc... thrown in for good measure.  The laptops, synths and other various instruments provide the perfect backdrop for Williams' impressionistic lyrics.  Give the following track a listen and see for yourself.  That is, if you've been living under a rock like me for the past few months and haven't already heard it.  Then again, that's not to say you can't listen to it again... and again...

• White Williams - "New Violence" from Smoke

Okkervil River Giving Away New EP of Covers

Okkervil River have made a 9-track mixtape of cover songs called Golden Oppportunities available as a free download on their website.  Not only do you get the music but they're offering liner notes and printable artwork for download as well.  The album features songs from The Fugs, John Cale, Randy Newman, and Serge Gainsbourg among others along with thematic ties to "The Stage Names".

The songs from Golden Opportunities were recorded at various radio stations, concerts and empty hotel stairwells while the band was on tour in Europe and America over the last year.  Make sure you download the mixtape here.  The Serge Gainsbourg cover below should be more than enough reason to hurry up and get that done.

• Okkervil River - "I Came Here To Say I'm Going Away" from Golden Opportunities

New Beach House

Baltimore duo Beach House are set to release their sophomore album Devotion on Feb. 26th.  The basic formula everyone came to know and love is still present here but Alex and Victoria have definitely filled out the sound this time.  Devotion is like a fire on a cold winter night, it will definitely help fight off these cold winter months.

• Beach House - "Gila" from Devotion

The Diamond Hoo Ha Men Are Coming...

The Diamond Hoo Ha Men (i.e. Supergrass) are coming and I couldn't be more excited.  I'm always anxious to get my hands on anything new they put out.  As far as I'm concerned I'd take them over their Britpop counterparts any day of the week so it was with great pleasure that I downloaded the free mp3 the band is giving away of "Diamond Hoo Ha Man".  The track is a live version of the song from this year's Guilford Festival.  You can check the track out below:

• Supergrass - "Diamond Hoo Ha Man" from Live at Guilford

While we're on the subject of Supergrass and my affection for them.  You should definitely watch the video for "Low C" while you're here.  The song is my favorite track from their previous album Road to Rouen which I think was vastly under appreciated here in the States.  According to ilikemusic.com, the Director Garth Jennings and producer Nick Goldsmith came up with the idea of the video to help support the cause of the Mermaids of Weeki Wachee Springs, Florida. The 'Save Our Tails' campaign was started by the citizens of Weeki Wachee to help prevent the springs and mermaids from extinction at the hands of the local authorities and Supergrass decided to lend their support.

Director Garth said: "I went to Weeki Wachee as a kid and have always wanted to go back. When we heard the song it seemed to fit perfectly with the place, the people and the cause. It was all shot in documentary style rather than the traditional music video approach. Luckily the local people were extremely friendly and gave us total freedom to shoot what we wanted. We even held a Save Our Tails party at the local bar and it turned into one of the best party's I have ever been to!  Supergrass played two sets and joined in with the local band too!!!"

I love the documentary approach to the video and its reminder of days gone by.  It's definitely an endearing video for an absolutely stellar song.  Check out the video below and save some tails too if you're so inclined.

Evangelicals Celebrate Last Christmas on Earth

Dead Oceans artist Evangelicals have contributed "The Last Christmas on Earth" to Mistletonia, a Christmas compilation put together by Mistletone Records, which is the bands label in Australia.  "The Last Christmas on Earth" was recorded after the band finished recording their new album "The Evening Descends" which will be released on January 22nd, 2008.

In addition to recording this little bit of holiday cheer, Evangelicals singer/guitarist/main madman Josh Jones posed for the very special holiday photo seen at left.  Now that's a Christmas card worth sending to your friends and family.

• Evangelicals - "Last Christmas on Earth" from Mistletonia

New Black Mountain

This is quite an introduction to Black Mountain's new album, In The Future, with the following track entitled "Tyrant" clocking in at just over 8 minutes.  The word "epic" is getting thrown around a lot in regards to the track and for good reason.  The word epic can be defined as, "very imposing or impressive; surpassing the ordinary (especially in size or scale)," which is a perfect description of the song.  It covers a lot of ground stylistically as it meanders between both the Black Mountains and Pink Mountaintops of Mr. McBean's musical landscape.  Give the track a listen while you wait for In The Future to hit the shelves on January 21st.

• Black Mountain - "Tyrants" from In The Future