Welcome to the M!dwest!

New Blog

2006-07-29T01:16:00.000-04:00

I've started a new blog. It's Mixtapes & Cellmates. Check it out.

Kobe Still Sucks...

2006-01-23T11:17:00.000-05:00

Kobe still sucks.

... and so does Pittsburgh.

Chromewaves has some Jenny Lewis/The Elected MP3's. Definitely worth checking out.

Short post today= long day of classes. More to come tomorrow.

[EDIT: 1:29pm]Oh... and one more thing Bill Gates runs like a girl. (via)

Wheat + Large Update

2006-01-20T22:40:00.000-05:00

So I thought I'd finally have an MP3 post. And this one's a good one.

It's safe to say I've been insanely addicted to Wheat for the last month or so. Their brand of alt-country pop music is catchy, endearing, and unique. Wheat manages to stay true enough to their pop sensibilites to land songs on various movies soundtracks (including Elizabethtown and Win A Date With Tad Hamilton ), but also have that indie/alt-country charm of a band that hasn't been "tainted" by a major label or mainstream radio (although technically, they released Per Second, Per Second, Per Second... Every Second on Sony records).

MP3 Closer to Mercury (Live @ WBER)
MP3 Don't I Hold You (from Per Second, Per Second, Per Second... Every Second )
MP3 World United Already (Nude Version) (from Per Second... Demos)
MP3 Off the Pedestal (from Hope and Adams)

The rest of the "Nude" demos can be found here, along with a bunch of live shows and info. Wheat's official website is down/no longer in existance, so this site may be the only place to go for info.

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

NFL Draft talk continues, and thanks to my ESPN Insider membership I get all kinds of info, including Todd McShay's analysis of Omar Jacobs' early entry:

Omar Jacobs, QB, Bowling Green With his mobility, arm strength, size and accuracy, Jacobs flashed first-round potential as a first-year starter in 2004. He failed to build on that momentum during an injury-riddled and inconsistent junior campaign in 2005. Instead of returning for his senior season, Jacobs made the sizeable mistake of getting greedy. He'll wind up with decent money as a second- or third-round pick in 2006, but he could have made millions more in the 2007 draft if he had returned to form at Bowling Green next fall.

Well, I'd be lying if I said I disagree. With Omar's talent, he could have easily been a first round pick had he come back for a successful senior season. But, it also remains that BG is losing their top 2 receivers, their best running back (who was also a contributing receiver), and a few members from the offensive line. If he had been coming back to a great team, I'd say stay. But I think, overall, it's in his best interest to go this year. He could technically perform great in the combine and in private workouts and get taken in the second round.

This guy is an asshole. I would have done the same thing if I was Antonio Davis.

Duke faces off against Georgetown today. I can't say I'm a huge fan, but my girlfriend's influence has rubbed off on me some.

It's nice to see an athlete with some loyalty, even if I do hate Arsenal.

Gotta love the right.

So Much Silence has The National's WOXY performances up for download. (via)

Matisyahu has a couple of live shows up for download here, here, and here. This guy is amazing.(via)

Everyone Loves Theo

2006-01-20T11:15:00.000-05:00

Theo's back. Best news I've heard all week.

My Falcons start a home-and-home tonight with Michigan. I know they're only 11-13-1, but they've won 8 out of their last 11, including a sweep of Ohio State.

~~So it looks like Apple and the Postal Service have made up. Or were they ever fighting in the first place?~~ Nevermind.

As usual, You Ain't No Picasso has some great stuff to download, including a new Colin Meloy song.

Is there anything funnier and better written on TV than The Daily Show? Not possible.

Short post, busy day. More to come soon (including some MP3 posts).

Lets get this going again....

2006-01-19T13:19:00.000-05:00

Alright, here we go again.

It's a new year and I have some new motivation to do this. Posting may not be everyday, but it'll be often enough.

This time around I'll most likely write a lot about sports, as well as music, movies, pop culture, politics, and whatever else floats my boat.

So I figure I might as well post now, seeing as how I'm here already.

Is anyone else disgusted with Steeler's fans? First, they harass Tommy Maddox (and his son), and now they're throwing rocks through a ref's window. Real classly there, Steeler's fans. Ok... so I'm still a little bitter about Kimo Von "Cheapshot" and Carson Palmer's knee. So shoot me.

It seems new Chief's headcoach Herman Edwards is off to a good start, naming Larry Johnson the starting running back. I'm predicting 2,100 yds and 30 rushing touchdowns next year for Johnson. I'd go out on a limb and call him the best back in the NFL if it weren't for LT and Shaun Alexander.

Since my Bengals are no longer in the playoffs, I'm already looking to the draft. There are quite a few notable early entries this year; primarily Vince Young and Reggie Bush. But also Lendale White, Maurice Drew, Mario Williams, Santonio Holmes, and Devin Hester. Also declaring was BGSU (where I go to school) QB Omar Jacobs. Right now he's projected in the 3rd or 4th round, but I think he could rise with a good showing at the combine. After all, anyone who throws for 41 TDS and 4 INT in a season has some talent. I'd love to see my Bengals pick him up in the later rounds, seeing as how Jon Kitna most likely won't be back. And we all know Craig Krenzel is not a #2 QB.

You Ain't No Picasso pointed out to me earlier that Page France has posted a new song on their MySpace. It's off their forthcoming EP Pear, which I can't for. And while you're at YANP, you might as well download Colin Meloy's performance on KEXP.

If you're a fan of Matt Pryor's work (aka The Get Up Kids, The Terrible Twos, and The New Amsterdams), head over to the New Ams' website to download an unreleased album (Killed or Cured) as well as a half dozen unreleased songs recorded recently. Some of them are great ("Heaven Sent," "Old Enough to Know Bitter," and "Suit Sacrifice" in particular).

If you're a Mac user (like me), MacUpdate is offering free year long memberships. But get there soon, as it'll end at the end of January.

And...Uh... freaky. (via)

On a final note, ignore that the layout looks like crap, I'm gonna be tinkering with it in the coming days.

The State of The Blog Address...

2005-10-12T04:01:00.000-04:00

Ok, so I haven't posted in about a month. Life is filled with a lot of other things that take up my time. However, I do miss this place. So I was thinking about starting this back up again, but with some changes.

While I still want to post about music, I'm also going to start posting on other things: sports, TV, movies, and maybe even a little politics. I want to cover all of the things I enjoy, not just one.

So look for some new updates, some new layouts, and some new things coming from this place.

It's been a while, but hopefully I can get this thing going again.

"George Bush Doesn't Care About Black People"

2005-09-09T00:15:00.000-04:00

This isn't much of a post, but I wanted to make it anyways.

This is remix of Kanye West's new single "Gold Digger." It's remixed with Kanye's now infamous outburst from the other night at an NBC Telethon in regards to this administrations less than stellar response to Hurricane Katrina.

MP3 George Bush Doesn't Care About Black People (via)

This was remixed by The Legendary K.O, with words by Big Mon and Damien a/k/a Dem Knock-Out Boyz.

Waxwing

2005-09-01T14:34:00.000-04:00

I had a psuedo-request for this great band.. so I thought I'd post on them.

Fronted by the amazing Rocky Votolato, this folk/rock band is easily one of the most emotional and driving bands I've ever heard. Rocky's tradmark raspy voice gives these guys so much power. Lyrically, the songs don't vary much from the folky storytelling of Votolato's solo work, but that's definitely not a negative. Songs like "One for the Ride" are incredibly emotional and soaring, kind of like a wonderful mix of Rocky Votolato's solo work with a harder, more grating U2. This is a wonderful, wonderful band.

MP3 Deadly Wisdom (from For Madmen Only)
MP3 All My Prophets (from One for the Ride)
MP3 ~~One for the Ride (from One for the Ride)~~
MP3 Colour (from Nobody Can Take What Everybody Owns)
MP3 Laboratory (from Intervention: Collection + Remix)
MP3 The Gift of Light (Live) (from KEXP Performance)

It seems like their website is down, but they have a nice page over at Better Propaganda.

KEXP Mixtacular!!

2005-08-31T00:54:00.000-04:00

I've been on a binge... making playlist after playlist for my iPod. Now that classes have started and I've been walking everywhere, I always have my trusty 'Pod with me. So the other day I got to thinkin' about a cool mix I could make.

And here's my idea:

I've ripped tons of stuff from the streams over at the wonderful KEXP. So why not take the best of it and make it a mix?

Well, that's what I've done.

I'm gonna go ahead and post these all to suck up the last few bits of my bandwidth fo the month of August... and you all are the beneficiaries.

BANDWIDTH ALL GONE!!! SEE YA TOMORROW!!

On to the list:

MP3 ~~The Decemberists - "The Engine Driver"~~
MP3 ~~The Fire Theft - "Heaven"~~
MP3 ~~Rocky Votolato - "Don't Walk Out On Me"~~
MP3 ~~Death Cab for Cutie - "Blacking Out The Friction"~~
MP3 ~~Maximo Park - "Grafitti"~~
MP3 ~~Sufjan Stevens - "The Predatory Wasp of the Palisades is Out To Get Us"~~
MP3 ~~The National - "All the Wine"~~
MP3 ~~Matt Pond PA - "Last Song"~~

So what do you guys think? Any comments? Requests? Glad to see me posting again?

I've also been thinking about some things to spice this place up... so I'm gonna start taking requests/suggestions/tip offs. So if you guys know of a band you'd think I'd like or you want to see something posted, drop me an email.

Quick Update...

2005-08-30T16:39:00.000-04:00

Sorry for the absense. School has started which has resulted in me being extremely busy with all kinds of stuff. So until I have time to do a real post (which will hopefully be quite soon), here's a brief blurb on stuff I've been diggin' lately:

Half-Handed Cloud As labelmates of Sufjan Stevens and Castanets, this one man band often gets overlooked. Well, he shouldn't. Combining eclectic musical seizures with strange, often funny lyrics, Half-Handed Cloud is definitely one of the most unique and interesting artists I've ever heard. I picked up Learning About You Scale when I was in Boston recently and it's gotten quite a bit of playtime on my iPod. You should definitely check him out if you're into the great stuff AK has to offer, or if you're a fan of The Danielson Famile or Castanets.

MP3 Animals are Cut in Two (from Thy Is a Word & Feet Need Lamps)

Also, I'd recommend everyone check out Matt Pond PA, Final Fantasy, and Page France.

I have a really cool post planned for sometime this week... so make sure you check back for that.

Stylex

2005-08-19T05:19:00.000-04:00

If you're from the Northern part of Ohio or Southern Michigan, there's a good chance you've heard of synth-rock band Stylex. For those of you not "in the know," think Thunderbirds are Now! meets The Faint. Their live show is famous in the area, with a suprisingly tolerable high energy, "I'm so much fuckin' cooler than you" style. Thier not for everyone, and I feel like I dirty scentster for even posting about these guys, but I figured some of you might like them (it kind of sounds like I don't, but alas, I do). Their nothing spectacular, but enjoyable if you like The Faint, Thunderbirds are Now!, or any 80's flavored dance/pop.

MP3 Out of Focus (Thunderbirds are Now! Mix) (from Potential Infection)
MP3 The Best News (goLAB Mix) (from Potential Infections)
MP3 Wiggle While You Work It (from Out of Focus)
MP3 False Start (from False Start)
MP3 In$ider (from False Start)

They've got a MySpace and a neat little website.

Ah... it feels good to be back.

Oh how long it has been...

2005-08-17T22:45:00.000-04:00

So I'm back from a great few days in the wonderful area known as New England. Boston, how I love thee.

Normal posting resumes tomorrow and I have some great stuff to catch up on.

Until then...

Vacation...

2005-08-11T13:52:00.000-04:00

I released today how I've been seriously neglecting this blog.

Bad Aaron. Bad.

But alas, this week and next are my only two weeks of "summer vacation," so posting will be extremely light. After that, however, things will return to normal.

In the mean time, I recommend the following blogs:

All of these blogs have great taste in music and I'm sure will post some great stuff.

Banjos are for Lovers

2005-08-08T03:40:00.000-04:00

So the other day I bought a banjo. Why? Because I'm cooler than you.

Anyways, am I alone in my love for this wonderful instrument?

So here, to celebrate my growing love for the banjo, here are a few prime selections... some serious and some (definitely) not.

MP3 Sufjan Stevens - ~~The Transfiguration (Live)~~ (from Live Performance @ KEXP 10/13/04)
MP3 Steve Martin - You Can't Sing a Sad Song While Playing The Banjo (from SNL)
MP3 Stewie Griffin - Stewie's Banjo Song (from Family Guy)

And since this piost was kind short, here's a few links to what's up in the blog world today:

- My Old Kentucky Blog has pictures and info on last Thursday's Brenden Benson show with Robbers on High Street.

- You Ain't No Picasso beat me to a post on the Great Lake Swimmers. Definitely check these guys out.

- Stereogum is diggin the new Death Cab as well.

- Brooklyn Vegan has an updated CMJ Performer list.

- Gorilla vs. Bear has some great posts on Flake Music, Danger Doom, and on the Iron & Wine/Calexico split.

- Useless Dolphins with Radars has some of the new DCfC tracks. I'd post some, but I'm a little uneasy about posting them this early. Major labels can be scary...

Death Cab for Cutie - Plans

2005-08-07T02:32:00.000-04:00

So... after giving this a good few listens, I can honestly say that I enjoy this record. It's Transatlanticism-meets-The Postal Service.

Here are some comments/thoughts on the new record:

- "I Will Follow You Into the Dark" is easily one of the best songs Ben has ever written.
- I like how they re-recorded "Stability." It sounds excellent.
- It's a little short. Most songs clock in around 3:30... so multiply that by 11 and you have a relatively short record, especially when compared to the epic Transatlanticism.
[EDIT] I guess I should clarify a little. They are both about the same length, time-wise, but Plans feels very disjointed and brief. I like most of the songs, It just doesn't doesn't flow as well, at least when compared to the (IMO much better) Transatlanticism.
- Highlights are the afformentioned "I Will Follow You Into the Dark," "Brothers on a Hotel Bed," Marching Bands of Manhattan," "Someday You Will Be Loved," and "Summer Skin."
- Lowlights are the blase' "Soul Meet's Body" and oddly grating "Crooked Teeth".
- Ben's falsetto seems a little overused.
- Despite what some people think, I think the production sounds great. Chris Walla is a great producer and I think it shows. Ben's voice is a little hidden/muddy at times, but it's all good to me.

Overall, it's not my favorite by DCfC, but it's enjoyable. It does make me excited for a new Postal Service though...

Anyone have any thoughts/comments?

Quick Update

2005-08-05T15:15:00.000-04:00

So after spending 2 1/2 hours in car driving back to Cincinnati, I'm worn out.

So, instead of spending the next hour writing a post, I'm gonna rest up and maybe head down to the Southgate House to see Brendon Benson.

Otherwise, here's a great song by one of my favorite CDs recently: Final Fantasy's Has A Good Home.

MP3 Your Light Is Spent

Sufjan Live Video

2005-08-04T15:07:00.000-04:00

As I work on my final Sociology paper, I just have one thing to say today:

Head over to You Ain't No Picasso for a full concert video of the one and only Sufjan Stevens. Props to Matt for putting this is up.

Sufjan Stevens Live in Aspen Torrent

2005-08-03T23:19:00.000-04:00

I'm tired. It's been a long day and I have an 8 page paper due Friday for my Sociology 301 class. So in place of a real post, here's the link to the torrent for Sufjan Steven's performance in Aspen, via the always amazing Colorado Tapers.

Link to Torrent. (356 MB, FLAC)

The setlist is almost exactly the same as the show in Denver, minus the encore:

1. The Fifty States
2. The Tallest Man, The Broadest Shoulders
3. Prarie Fire That Wanders About
4. They Are Night Zombies!! They are Neighbors!! They Have Come Back From the Dead!! Ahhhh!!!
5. Sister
6. John Wayne Gacy, Jr.
7. Casimir Pulaski Day
8. Jacksonville Cheer
9. Jacksonville
10. The Predatory Wasp of the Palisades is Out to Get Us
11. Chicago Cheer
12. Chicago
13. Come On! Feel The Illinoise!
14. Metropolis Cheer
15. The Man of Metropolis Steals our Hearts
16. Illinois Cheer

The sound quality is apparently ok, but don't expect anything great. It's a good show nonetheless.

New Header...

2005-08-03T00:32:00.000-04:00

Out of sheer boredom and appreciation for Sufjan Steven's humorous song titles, I changed the header a bit.

Keep in mind, this still isn't the final product... so stay tuned for that.

Sufjan Stevens Live @ The Bluebird

2005-08-02T04:22:00.000-04:00

I got this wonderful Sufjan Stevens performance from 7/30/05 via Colorado Tapers. So all the thanks goes to them.

Now, however, are the goods.

This is what I'm gonna do. I know if I put up the whole show, it'd kill my bandwidth. Judging by how my bandwidth has been going recently, I thought I'd put it up via MegaUpload.

[EDIT] - Chris over at Music.For.Snobs has generously uploaded the whole thing track by track. Head over there if you'd like to get it that way.

So here's tracklist:

1. The Fifty States Song
2. The Tallest Man, The Broadest Shoulders
3. Prarie Fire that Wanders About
4. They Are Night Zombies!! They Are Neighbors!! They Have Come Back From The Dead!! Ahhhh!
5. Sister
6. John Wayne Gacy, Jr.
7. Casimir Pulaski Day
8. Jacksonville (Cheer)
9. Jacksonville
10. The Predatory Wasp of the Palisades is Out to Get Us!
11. Chicago (Cheer)
12. Chicago
13. Come On! Feel the Illinoise!
14. Man of Metropolis (Cheer)
15. The Man of Metropolis Steals Our Hearts

Encore:
16. The Star Spangled Banner
17. A Good Man is Hard to Find

So here's the whole thing for download from MegaUpload because this would definitely reak havoc on my server space. Let me know if i goes down. The file is 100.7MB zip archive and was encoded from FLAC to 160kbps MP3. Enjoy.

Download Via MegaUpload (Follow Link to Download)

The audio quality is really pretty good, and the songs are performed marvelously. Definitely worth downloading.

New Sufjan Stevens Song

2005-08-01T20:31:00.000-04:00

So I'm guessing most of you Sufjan-ites have gotten wind of the Rubber Soul tribute album heading our way this fall. Well, Sufjan Stevens contributed a track to the album: "What Goes On."

It's up for stream here.

Or if you prefer an mp3:

MP3 What Goes On (VIA RAPIDSHARE -- >Follow Link to Download.)

[EDIT]:So aparently some people might be confused by Rapidshare. Right now (10:31pm EST) is "happy hours" at Rapidshare. Meaning that there are no server limitations (concurrent downloads, download limits, etc). This results in heavy traffic. If it says the server is busy, just hit refresh a few times and it'll come up. Or wait another hour or so until the servers calm down.

I'm not hosting this myself because I know it would kill my bandwidth. So it's up on Rapidshare. Let me know if it goes down and I'll re-upload it.

Keep in mind this was ripped from the stream, so it isn't the best quality, but it's listenable.

I do, however, really like the song. Thoughts?

Header...

2005-08-01T14:25:00.000-04:00

I added a header. It isn't final, but I thought it would spruce up the place nicely.

Thoughts?

Bach Cello Suites

2005-07-29T13:43:00.000-04:00

So the last two days have seen new highs in hits (over 1,200) and page views (over 2,600). This is great news, except for the fact that my bandwidth has gone from 27% used to 83% used in two days. Yea, so that's not very good. Due to this, I've taken down the Sufjan Stevens show @ Judson College and the new Death Cab song. The Death Cab song is up on Rapidshare and the Judson College show will be up soon as well. Sorry about all this, but those are the two things killing my bandwidth, and I need to squeak by on just a few GB of bandwidth for the next few days.

Also, I'm going to start only keeping things up for about a week or so. I'll keep important things up for a long time (like the Sufjan Stevens stuff and for now, the National Live @ KEXP), so don't worry about stuff like that.

But anyways, on to today's post:

Ok, so this is a little different than usual, but that's a good thing right? As some of you may know, I love classical music. It's amazing and is way to underappreciated by people my age (late teens, early twenties). Everyone has their focus on the indie scene or hip/hop or country, and just ignores the beauty of classical music. Most of you should know by know that I love the cello. It's an amazing instrument with a gorgeous and powerfully emotional sound. So, needless to say, classical music + cello = awesome. And thats where today's entry comes in. Here are a few of my favorite Bach cello pieces performed by the amazing Yo-Yo Ma. These works are somber and haunting, giving off an unnerving amount of emotion for only being performed by a single cello. Definitely an example of beautiful classical music.

From The Cello Suites: Inspired by Bach
MP3 Suite No. 2, Prelude
MP3 Suite No. 3, Gigue
MP3 Suite No. 5 in C Minor - Allemande

You can buy some wonderful music by Yo-Yo Ma here.

Castanets

2005-07-28T13:33:00.000-04:00

I'm really suprised it took me so long to get into Castanets. I mean, after all, they are on the same the label as the great Sufjan Stevens. Castanets is what I'd call "raw," but not in the sense that his talent has yet to be developed. In fact, that's far from the case. His vocals are pushed and stressed, yet stray from being grating or harsh. He sings the way you'd expect to hear a blues singer sing, stressing the emotion behind the voice, rather then the talent of the voice itself. His songs have the same folk/country-inspired eclectic innocence that labelmate Sufjan Steven posseses, giving off a universal sense of Americana that sounds perfect. Vocally, he sometimes sounds a little like Devendra Banhart and by the looks of his Sam Beam-ish beard, there's something about the Grizzly Adams look that makes you a lot cooler and more talented then everyone else. Its times like these that I wish I had facial hair...

From Cathedral
MP3 Three Days Four Nights
MP3 No Light To Be Found (Fare Thee Faith, The Path Is Yours)

More info is here.

A Brief Update...

2005-07-27T19:15:00.000-04:00

Sorry for the server woes... everything is back up again and hopefully it'll stay that way.

I've been really busy the last few days and have my attention elsewhere, so I'll keep this one short. Tomorrow should see the start of normal posting again.

Also, make sure you check out the new Death Cab for Cutie song I posted, it's really pretty good. Definitely better than "Soul Meets Body."

So here are a few random songs I'm really digging.

MP3 ~~Xn - Vito's Ordination Song (Live)~~(Sufjan Stevens' Cover)

MP3 Marzuki - No One Likes a Nervous Wreck (from No One Likes a Nervous Wreck)

MP3 Matt Pond PA - Grave's Disease (Live) (From live performance at KEXP)

There ya go... just a quick update. More to come tomorrow.

SERVER ISSUE

2005-07-27T01:23:00.000-04:00

Just to let everyone know, my server is down at the moment... so bear with me.

[UPDATE 3:10AM] - Still down... A Small Orange is still working on the issue, so hopefully it'll all be back up by the morning.

[UPDATE 3:23AM] - Everything is back up. Enjoy.

[UPDATE 6:02PM] - Server is down again...

New Death Cab Song

2005-07-26T18:24:00.000-04:00

Sorry for the lack of updates the last 2 days, but I have a great gift...

OK.. so hosting this file has helped kill my bandwidth (like 8GB in 2 days...), so I'm taking it down. I uploaded it to rapidshrare.. so feel free to get it from there. Here's the link:

MP3 Marching Bands of Manhattan (VIA RAPIDSHARE)

Thoughts?

Personally... I really like it. It's really charming...

Sundays are for Science!

2005-07-24T21:14:00.000-04:00

I have no idea why I titled my post "Sundays are for Science!."

I thought I'd do something special for my 50th post, but I really don't have the energy to. I was going to post Sufjan Stevens' performance for KEXP that aired yesterday, but I don't have to time or energy to do so. Look for it tomorrow morning.

So I'll cut this post short with a song that I've been listening to a lot:

MP3 Page France - "We Remain as Two"

This song is so incredibly charming... I just can't describe it.

Sufjan Stevens Live @ KCRW Video

2005-07-23T14:56:00.000-04:00

So do people actually read these things on the weekend?

Judging from my hitcount today (which is a lot lower than usual), my guess is resounding "NO."

Oh well, their loss.

This has been short and pointless, so I'll offer something worthwhile to make up for it. Here ya go:

VIDEO ~~Sufjan Stevens Live @ KCRW~~ (Real Player Required) (63.04MB)

This is the video available for stream at KCRW's website, but streams suck right? The quality isn't the best, but its entirely watchable. Remember, it's a .ram file, which is only playable through Real Player.

Enjoy.

Sufjan Stevens Live @ Judson College

2005-07-22T17:20:00.000-04:00

So, I know people love this man (*cough*ME*cough*), and that this show isn't very widely available, so I thought I'd make it available.

This is from his solo show at Judson College on November 19th, 2003. It's a great set and includes a few rarities, like "Lakes of Canada," "Borderline," and "Opie's Funeral Song." This is a great show, so make sure you grab it.

EDIT - Ok.. so these mp3s have helped kill my bandwidth.. so I'm gonna take them down. I'll upload them to rapidshare later.

MP3 ~~The One I Love (REM Cover)~~
MP3 ~~Opie's Funeral Song~~
MP3 ~~Borderline~~
MP3 ~~Vito's Ordination Song~~
MP3 ~~Sister~~
MP3 ~~Seven Swans~~
MP3 ~~Lakes of Canada~~
MP3 ~~Rake~~

This was recorded straight off the soundboard, so the quality is GREAT. Sorry that the show is out of order, as I'm not really sure of the right order, but I'm sure you're ok with that. This is the whole show, including the stories between songs, tuning, etc.

Also, make sure you check out today's other post, on New York indie/folk band taKKa taKKa.

taKKa taKKa

2005-07-22T14:24:00.000-04:00

I definitely didn't expect to be posting about these guys today, but they really caught my attention.

The other day I got an email from taKKa taKKa's Gabe Levine, praising my blog and offering to send me some stuff by his band. I checked out his band's website and boy was I suprised. These New Yorkers have some serious talent. What I found when I ventured to their simple (yet charming) website was a bunch of neat, folky indie/rock songs. Their sound is so familiar, but not stale. I spent a few hours last night listening to "They Built You Up Too Fast," "Joshua and Professor Faulkner," and "American Queen" trying to pinpoint who they sound like. Even after scanning thorugh my extensive iTunes library, I couldn't really put my finger on it. I heard a little bit of Yo La Tengo. A little American Analog Set. And even a little Neutral Milk Hotel. Yet those comparisions still don't really work all that well. I really can't wait to hear more.

MP3 Joshua and Prof. Faulkner
MP3 American Queen
MP3 Subway Shanty

From Fall Apart Art
MP3 Jackson
MP3 They Built You Up Too Fast

Check out their website for more info.

Yes, this is kind of short.. so expect another entry later.

More and More Minor Additions

2005-07-21T20:37:00.000-04:00

I changed the commenting and trackback ability of my blog. This erased all comments (even though I do have them saved as emails), so feel free to "releave" me some love.

Stay tuned for more minor tweakings.

Also make sure you check out today's music post.

Various Artists Live @ KEXP

2005-07-21T18:52:00.000-04:00

Sorry for the late update today, for some reason I thought Sufjan Stevens was going to be at KEXP today when in actuality he'll be there Saturday at 7:30pm EST.

But anyways, I thought I'd offer some songs I've ripped from recent radio performances @ KEXP. I've ripped over 50 total, but here are some of my favs.

As always right click and save as...

MP3 Matt Pond PA - ~~New Hampshire~~ (Live @ KEXP)
MP3 The Decemberists - ~~We Both Go Down Together~~ (Live @ KEXP)
MP3 Sufjan Stevens - ~~For The Widows in Paradise, For The Fatherless in Ypsilanti~~ (Live @ KEXP)
MP3 Ben Gibbard - ~~The Dream of Evan and Chan~~ (Live @ KEXP)
MP3 Iron & Wine - ~~Free Until They Cut Me Down~~ (Live @ KEXP)

I'm tired of giving kind of crappy updates, so I'll make sure I put up all full one tomorrow.

More Minor Additions...

2005-07-20T23:43:00.000-04:00

I added a few more things to the sidebar out of sheer boredom and for your convience.

There is a quick link section that has recent notable posts listed. I also seperated out my blogs a little bit.

Also, I moved all the music files into a different folder on my server, so if a link is dead, please drop me a line so I can fix the link. I'm pretty sure I got them all, but let me know if I missed one.

What's in store for tomorrow? Sufjan Stevens appearence on KEXP is at the top of my list, so hopefully he performs some songs. Otherwise, I'll have Feist's recent KEXP performance up.

Until then...

The National Live @ KEXP

2005-07-20T11:39:00.000-04:00

So lately I've been on a binge, ripping almost every good stream of a radio performance I can find. And today I'm giving you another one.

The National have been one of those bands that just takes over my iPod. I've searched out almost everything they've recorded and have logged dozens and dozens of plays in just a few short weeks. Their most recent effort, Alligator, is one of my favorite records of this year, with driving yet beautiful melodic indie rock songs. I only wish they were coming closer on their tour with Clap Your Hands and Say Yeah!.

So here you are, four wonderfully performed songs by The National. Make sure you at least check out "All The Wine" and "Wasp Nest," two of my favorite songs by this great band.

MP3 ~~All the Wine (Live)~~
MP3 ~~Lit Up (Live)~~
MP3 ~~The Geese of Beverly Road (Live)~~
MP3 ~~Wasp Nest (Live)~~

Sufjan Stevens Live in San Francisco (7/17/05)

2005-07-19T13:05:00.000-04:00

This post is gonna be quick, but I thought I'd at least post these.

I have 2 MP3s for ya. Both are from a recent show in San Francisco by the one and only Sufjan Stevens. I was sent this show by a member of the All Good Naysayers, Speak Up! Forum and have been cleaning them up for the last day or so. These are two of the best so far. Keep in mind, however, that the quality is kind of low, but it gives you some idea of what his live show sounds like.

There may be another MP3 or two added tonight, so check it later.

Sufjan Stevens (Live in SF 7/17/05)
MP3 Casimir Pulaski Day (Live)
MP3 A Good Man is Hard to Find (Live)

And remember, the quality is pretty low, but not horrible. I've cleaned the shit of these things and they still aren't sounding great.

Enjoy.

Monday Mix #6

2005-07-18T11:55:00.000-04:00

It's Monday, so here's the goods:

As always: right click and save as...

1. Stellastarr* - ~~Lost In Time~~ (from Harmonies for the Haunted)
So remember back before there weren't 400 new wave "revival" bands? Well, back in 2003 (was that really all the way back in 2003? Whoa...) Stellastarr* came onto the scene with their (now not so) distinct "new wave-meets-electro/pop" sound and garnered some pretty moderate critical attention. I don't know about anyone else, but I freakin loved the few songs I had heard at the time. So fast foward to 2005 and they aren't so distinct anymore. That doesn't really make them bad though... right? Well their forthcoming full length, Harmonies for the Haunted is more of the same dance/80's/synth pop. This isn't entirely like everything else though, managing to pay respects to the works of Robert Smith and David Bryne, while channeling their great energy and catchiness. It's good stuff.

2. The National - ~~Mr. November~~ (from Alligator)
I've been pretty much hooked on two bands/artists as of late: Sufjan Stevens and the National. The National have such a great sound: it's like driving indie rock... with a lighter touch then you'd expect. Singer Matt Berninger's dyanamic baritone is unique and definitive, giving even more depth to band that has written some great songs (see: "Wasp Nest," "Abel," "Trophy Wife," etc.).

3. The Get Up Kids - ~~Campfire Kansas~~ (from On A Wire)
I think I'll always have a place in my heart for The Get Up Kids. Yes, it's a little whiny. And yes, it's a little generic. But so what? It never really tried to be anything more then what it really was at it's core: emotional punk-laced rock. Matt Pryor is a great performer and can write some really enjoyable songs. "Campfire Kansas" is probably my favorite song ever by TGUK, and it never ceases to remind me of summer; and in the greatest way.

4. Cary Brothers - ~~Blue Eyes (Live)~~ (from Live Performance @ KEXP)
The first time I heard of Cary Brothers, I admit, was through Zach Braff's great film Garden State. This song was one of the best on the great soundtrack (right there with Frou Frou's "Let Go" and Colin Hay's "I Just Don't Think I'll Ever Get Over You") filled with wonder songs. This is a live version of the afforementioned tune from Brothers' appearence/performance at KEXP. Enjoy.

EDIT: Sorry.. I linked to the wrong song. The actual Wolf Parade song is now up.

5. Wolf Parade - ~~Grounds for Divorce~~ (from Apologies to the Queen Mary)
There's a lot of hype surrounding these guys and for good measure. They've had a write-up in The New York Times, have shared the stage with Modest Mouse, have gotten (proverbial) hand-job and after hand-job from the indie rock world's biggest critics. They aren't gonna change your life like some bands supposedly can (*cough*ClapYourHandandSayYeah!*cough*), but they're damn good at what they do. It's a little bit of 80's infused indie/pop, in the vane of Moon and Antartica-era Modest Mouse. It's enjoyable, even it if won't change your life.*

*Please ignore my blatant use of sarcasm in this paragraph about CYHSY!... I'm really, really tired...

Coming Soon...

So what's in store for this week?

Feist Live @ KEXP
Sufjan Steven Live @ KEXP
A few live Sufjan Tracks from Yesterday's show in San Francisco.
And more...

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Odds and Ends

You Ain't No Picasso pointed out to me that you can stream the entire (!) new Page France album Hello Dear Wind. It's all over at their Purevolume page. Have I mentioned how much I freakin love these guys? I can't wait for this one...

Use a Mac? Want to try a neat "new" broswer? I'm personally gonna pimp out Shiira, an open source browser that uses the Safari rendering engine. It's stable, fast, and has a lot of neat features like Safari Bookmark recognition (it'll read your Safari bookmarks without even importing them!!). Give it try.

Cliptip, a music video blog, posted M83's video for "Don't Save Us From the Flames" the other day. The link is here.

Layout Additions...

2005-07-17T15:42:00.000-04:00

Just a quick note:

I've added a few things to the sidebar today out of boredom. The first is that you can now hover your mouse over the images in the "What's on the Pod?" Section and it'll tell you what artist and album it's from. Next, I added two new sections: What's in the Book Shelf?" and "What's in the DVD Player?" Basically, it's what I'm currently reading and watching. You can hover your mouse over those links as well and get a description and/or review of the work in question. Those descriptions/reviews come courtesy of Amazon.com.

Let me know if it all works correctly.

That's all for now.

Sunday! Sunday! Sunday!

2005-07-17T10:47:00.000-04:00

I'm worn out from a long week, so I have an idea. Basically, here's my plan for the post: recommend a couple of artist's and offer up some MP3's of a couple of songs that I've been listening to a lot lately. It's short, simple and damn sexy. Or something like that.

So, here's the goods:

MP3 ~~Joanna Newsom - "Bridges and Balloons"~~ (from The Milk-Eyed Mender)
I know a lot of people who dislike her (usually based solely on the strangeness of her voice), but her and her odd voice have really grown on me, a la Conor Oberst. It's chock full of harp-goodness wrapped in a Bjork-like menagerie of high pitched screeches and strangely beautiful melodies. It's not for everyone, but give it a try.

Her website is at this address.

MP3 ~~Devendra Banhart - When They Come~~ (from the forthcoming Cripple Crow)
Devendra is a little weird. His Grizzly Adams beard and songs about love for little boys will probably be a little disheartening to some. But to others (like me), his brand of chillingly dark country/folk music is pretty damn good. This is the kind of music that you could put to an episode of HBO's now defunct series Carnivale and have it work perfectly. Devendra is one of those really great songwriters that never really gets much attention and probably never will. Nevertheless, he's worth looking into if you're into... well... good music.

More information can be found at his website and a sampler from his album Cripple Crow can be found here.

MP3 ~~Imogen Heap - "Just for Now"~~ (from the forthcoming Speak for Yourself)
It seems like "Hide and Seek" has been getting all the attention, which is understandable, but I like this track quite a bit more. The harmonies are just gorgeous and it's a little more innocent then "Hide and Seek" (even though I do absolutely love that song). Frou Frou's front... um... lady can craft some really beautiful songs, and this is one of her best.

Check out her website.

And while I'm at it, here are a few more recommendations:

If you've never seen it, I recommend checking out the entire Band of Brothers mini-series that aired on HBO a few years back. It's out on DVD, so you should be able to find it to rent/buy. It's really great stuff. The entire series is one big collection of stories that come are emotional, powerful, funny, visually gorgeous, and very poignant. Amazon has the info on the DVD here.

I've been reading a lot of Carl Sandburg lately. So, I recommend at least checking out his poetry, which can be found with a quick search on Google.

What? No Sufjan today? I can't have that happen:

MP3 The Star Spangled Banner (Live) (from performance at Lee's Palace in Toronto, 11/16/04)
This is great rendition of this oldie. Sufjan changes the lyrics around a bit, but I think it's a lot better then the one written by that Francis Scott guy...

Secretly Canadian + New DCfC Song

2005-07-16T03:58:00.000-04:00

First off, WTTMW can now be found at http://www.welcometothemidwest.com. Update your bookmarks, or just use the old address.

Also here's an MP3 of a new Death Cab for Cutie song.

MP3 Soul Meets Body

Thoughts?

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Not only does Bloomington, IN based label Secretly Canadian have a great name, but also a wonderful line-up of bands: from the lounge/jazz/folk act of Antony and the Johnsons to the indie/rock of Damien Jurado. They've really come up with a great collection of bands. Here's a sampling of some great music, courtesy of the wonderful Secretly Canadian:

Antony and the Johnsons
MP3 Cripple and the Starfish (from Antony and the Johnsons)
MP3 Hope There's Someone (from I Am A Bird Now)

Br. Danielson
MP3 Things Against Stuff (from Brother is to Sun)

Damien Jurado
MP3 Texas to Ohio (from Where Shall You Take Me?)
MP3 White Center (from On My Way to Absense)

Danielson Famile
MP3 Good News for the Puss Pickers (from Fetch the Compass Kids)
MP3 Nice of Me (from A Prayer for Every Hour)

Early Day Miners
MP3 All Harm (from All Harm Ends Here)

June Panic
MP3 Let My Lungs Coin Words (from Hope You Fail Better)

Magnolia Electric Co.
MP3 Cross the Road (from Trials and Errors)
MP3 The Dark Don't Hide It (from What Comes After the Blues)

Richard Swift
MP3 Lady Day (from The Novelist / Walking Without Effort)
MP3 As I Go (from The Novelist / Walking Without Effort)

Songs: Ohia
MP3 Lioness (from The Lioness)
MP3 Steve Albinis Blues (from Didn't it Rain)

The Impossible Shapes
MP3 Bombs (from Horus)
MP3 Perfect Timing (from We Like It Wild)

Windsor for the Derby
MP3 Giving Up (from Giving Up the Ghost)
MP3 The Melody of a Fallen Tree (from We Fight Till Death)

Tour Dates / Booking / News / Media / Store

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Odds and Ends

Stream "Soul Meets Body," the single from Death Cab for Cutie's forthcoming major label debut at the band's MySpace. (via Stereogum)

The new Harry Potter book is now out. I don't really care, but I guess some people do.

Anyone seen new Charlie and the Chocolate Factory yet? Any thoughts?

CNN has info on what's been up with Chapelle's Show. I'm pulling for production to start again soon.

Sample Devendra Banhart's new album Cripple Show here. (Note to readers: It's really freakin good, even though the album art scares the living crap out of me.)

Okkrevil River

2005-07-15T14:25:00.000-04:00

I really don't remember where I first heard this wonderful band, but I'm thankful to whoever turned me on to them. Okkervil River is a rock band. They aren't just a normal "Foo Fighters/Queens of the Stone/I rip off Eddie Vedder" rock band though. They're a good rock band. By using elements of folk/roots to create very introspective and rockin' songs, they've created some chilling music. Some may be turned off by the vocals, as singer Will Sheff's vocals aren't exactly the smoothist things around. I'm not calling this a bad thing, however, as his shaking, haunting vocals work perfectly with Okkervil River's style of dark, country music-inspired rock. They've had quite the buzz around them for a while now, so be sure to check them out. They just finished tourning with Rilo Kiley, so look for them to play some shows here-and-there this summer.

From Sleep and Wake Up Songs EP
MP3 A Favor

From Black Sheep Boy
MP3 For Real
MP3 Black

From Live Performance on KEXP (5/18/05)
MP3 ~~The Latest Toughs (Live)~~
MP3 ~~Some Weird Sin (Live)~~

VIDEO It Ends With a Fall (QuickTime Required) (15MB)
VIDEO For Real (QuickTime Required) (25MB)

The stream of the session at KEXP is here, so listen to the whole thing if you'd like.

Check out their website if you so please. Buy their music while you're there.

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Odds and Ends

Thanks to awesome blog press from Brooklyn Vegan, My Old Kentucky Blog, Gorilla Vs. Bear, Stereogum, Muzzle of Bees, South of Mainstream, Largeheartedboy, and many others, I've been averaging over 500 hits a day. Thanks a lot everyone.

The All Good Naysayers message board is in full swing. Man, do those people (including me) love Sufjan.

Sorry for the small entries lately, I'm working double my usual hours this week. Tomorrow will have a full update.

Sufjan Stevens on KCRW's Morning Becomes Eclectic

2005-07-14T15:13:00.000-04:00

So yea, I'm obssesed with the man and his banjo. So sue me. Anyways... here's his performance from earlier today from KCRW's Morning Becomes Eclectic:

As always, please right click and save as...

EDIT 10:19pm - I added a freshly recorded version of "Jacksonville," complete with the first 4 seconds or so that were cut off in the first MP3.

EDIT 10:36pm - I cleaned up the beginning and end of all the songs, so now they're not all jagged and what not. I didn't, however, clean up the interview or the intro. I thought it to be kind of pointless. The file sizes are also smaller in order to save space for you and for me. Enjoy this wonderful set.

MP3 ~~Intro~~
MP3 Casimir Pulaski Day
MP3 The Man of Metropolis Steals Our Hearts
MP3 Chicago
MP3 ~~Interview~~
MP3 John Wayne Gacy Jr.
MP3 A Good Man Is Hard To Find
MP3 Jacksonville

What a wonderful performance. Make sure you get "The Man of Metropolis Steals our Hearts," it's an amazing song.

Please let me know if a link isn't working, I rushed this up. Enjoy.

Also see Sufjan Live @ WNYC.

Matt Pond PA

2005-07-13T11:58:00.000-04:00

I really don't know why it took me so long to mention this wonderful band. I've been in love with this band and their chamber indie/pop music for a while now. Maybe it's my obsession with the cello, or maybe it's singer Matt Pond's wonderfully abrasive voice, but there was a period of time where I exclusively listened to these guys. A lot of their songs are musically upbeat, with simple driving bass lines and tap-your-foot-along-with-the-beat drums. Some, however, are beautiful and longing, relying heavily on the cello to push along the melody. Pond writes a majority of his songs about the wilderness and nature, with many references to lakes, trees, fire, and the weather. He imposes a beautiful sense of lonliness in a lot of his songs, paralleling the lonliness of a vast open stretch of wilderness. That sounds a little cliche' but he pulls it off really well. They've made an appearence (musically) on the O.C. and on the O.C. Mix Volume 4, and even have a wonderful cover of Neutral Milk Hotel's "In the Airplane Over the Sea." Expect a new full length from them by the end of year. I reccomend checking out "Promise the Bite" and "Measure 3," two of my favorite songs.

From Deer Apartments
MP3 Possibilities of Summer

From The Nature of Maps
MP3 Closer

From Measure
MP3 The Hollows

From The Green Fury
MP3 ~~Measure 3~~

From This Is Not The Green Fury
MP3 Lily One

From Emblems
MP3 Graves Disease

From Winter Songs EP
MP3 ~~In the Airplane Over the Sea~~

From Live Performance in Middle East, MA - 10.12.2001
MP3 Promise the Bite (Live)

From @ KEXP Session
MP3 ~~KC (Live)~~

Check out their neat website here and buy their music at Insound.

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Odds and Ends

Of Montreal is planning an extensive summer tour. Check out the dates here.

FUNTIME OK has an awesome set of Intonation previews on Thunderbirds are Now! and The Decemberists.

Stars Live @ KEXP

2005-07-12T11:42:00.000-04:00

(Sorry for the low quality picture... it's all I could find of their KEXP sessions)

I was looking through the archives over at KEXP and saw that Stars had a few performances up. So, as the stream-ripping junkie that I am, I recorded it. So here, for your listen pleasure are four songs from their April 2, 2005 performance and one song from their March 23, 2003 performance.

God, I love these Canadians.

As always, please right click and save as.

MP3 ~~Your Ex-Lover Is Dead~~ (Live @ KEXP 4/2/05)
MP3 ~~Reunion~~ (Live @ KEXP 4/2/05)
MP3 ~~On Peak Hill~~ (Live @ KEXP 4/2/05)
MP3 ~~Calender Girl~~ (Live @ KEXP 4/2/05)

MP3 ~~Look Up~~ (Live @ KEXP 4/2/05)

Well, there ya go. Since I have a bunch of sexy server space, look for cool stuff like this all the time. Enjoy.
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Odds and Ends

Thanks to Brooklyn Vegan (LINK) and the almighty Stereogum (LINK) for the hot link action. I had record hit numbers yesterday because of it. Thanks go out to those great blogs. Also thanks to recent mentions from South of Mainstream and Gorilla VS Bear. I appreciate the press.

Monday Mix #5

2005-07-11T11:49:00.000-04:00

Here's the good ole Monday Mix. I'm gonna start making them 5 songs every week now, just cus it's easier to assemble. However, I will be offering all of the songs individually for download, thanks to my new server space and bandwidth.

Remember, please "right click and save as."

Here's the goods:

1. Matt Pond PA - ~~New Hampshire (Live @ KEXP)~~
Anyone who knows me, knows how much I love Matt Pond PA. Here's one of their most well known songs (thanks to the O.C.) performed live for those wonderful people over at KEXP.

2. Sufjan Stevens - The 50 States Song (Live @ Lee's Palace)
This anthem is a must have for any Sufjan fan. It's clever (with the great line "Visit Nebraska, there's nothing to do!") and very Sufan-ish in it's beauty. Download it. Now.

3. The Mountain Goats - ~~Golden Jackal Song~~ (From New Asian Cinema)
I love John Darnielle. His songs are poignant and a graceful, even with his sharp pronounciation. This is kind of an oldie, but I love it. It's classic Mountain Goats.

4. Marzuki - ~~Newmantra (from No One Likes a Nervous Wreck)~~
This is Sufjan Stevens' old band. They're really quite good. Sufjan played the whistles and accordian, among others. It's beautiful folk/indie music. If you like Sufjan, you should like Marzuki.

5. The New Amsterdams - ~~Strangled By the Thought (All I Want Is You) (From Killed or Cured Demos)~~
Yea, I know, I'm a sucker for an emotional acoustic song. Matt Pryor will always have a piece of my heart for his role in the Get Up Kids. However, since they are no more, I'll take The New Amsterdams. With all their Folk/Americana/Emo/Indie goodness.

Tomorrow I'll be uploading another KEXP performance from one of my favorite bands. Who? Well... they're Canadian if that helps any.

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Odds and Ends

Holy crap... I've mentioned on one of my favorite music blogs: Brooklyn Vegan.

If you love Sufjan Stevens, join All Good Naysayers, a great new message board. There are live show downloads and a bunch of useless info. Plus, yours truly is a Mod.

Smoosh

2005-07-10T23:38:00.000-04:00

Some of you may have heard these girls before, but "hey," I thought, "I'll give them some free press." So here's the deal on Smoosh: they're a pair of sisters (ages 11 and 13) that make catchy, upbeat indie/pop. You're probably thinking "oh they're 11 and 13, how good could it be?" Well, it's damn good. These girls know how to make charming, yet simple pop music. The songs range from funny to inspirational to just plain fun and lighthearted. I don't know about you, but when I was like 12 or 13 I spent most of my time playing Super Nintendo and eating Dorritos, not touring with Mates of State and opening for Pearl Jam or Death Cab for Cutie (all of which they've done). Once you get past the initial "awwww" of hearing these two girls croon and wail like rock stars twice their age, you can easily see how talented they really are. Songs like "It's Cold" and "La Pump" really showcase how talented these girls are.

From 2004's She Like Electric
MP3 ~~Pygmy Motorcycle~~
MP3 ~~It's Cold~~

VIDEO La Pump (QuickTime required)

They have websites here(Label) and here(Band).

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Odds and Ends

Love Sufjan Stevens? Well, now there' s a message board for you. Head to AllGoodNaysayers.Net for news, reviews, downloads, etc.

Pitchfork has a review up of Wolf Parade's EP.

Saddle Creek Records (home of Cursive, Bright Eyes, The Faint, etc.) plan on opening a club in Omaha. Sweetness...

I've gotten my own webspace, so look for bigger and better files in the near future.

Dredg

2005-07-09T11:54:00.000-04:00

I never really liked Dredg. They were a little too abrasive for me. But wow, is their new stuff good. Catch Without Arms is epic and haunting, with soaring guitars and vocals. This is the stuff of a well matured band. Musicially, I'm a little reminded of Muse or Mew, with guitar and vocal parts soaring with a sense of airy disregard. I was even a little reminded of Lovedrug when listening to a few songs ("Catch Without Arms"), which sure as hell isn't a band thing in my mind. Dredg is sexy progressive-rock that can easily appeal to people who aren't fans of it. Give it a listen.

From 2005's Catch Without Arms
MP3 ~~Catch Without Arms~~
MP3 ~~Ode to the Sun~~

Check out their website for more info.

**Quick note: I'm gonna be trying some new layouts/format things out over the next few days, so if this page looks strange, that's why.** ___________________________________________________________________________

Odds and Ends

First off, thanks to Gorilla Vs. Bear for the mention.

As you might have heard, Q and Not U are disbanding at the end of this summer. Lame.

"Soul Meets Body" will be the first single Death Cab for Cutie's major label debut, Plans, out August 30th.

Hollywood makes me a little sick sometimes. (Via Pink is the New Blog)

There are multiple Flickr albums with pictures from Thursday's terrorist attacks in London here and here. The pictures are very haunting and poignant, like many of the images that followed 9/11. (Via Boing Boing)
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Daily Torrents

Music from the O.C. Volume 5
Stars - Set Yourself on Fire**
Bright Eyes - When the President Talks to God (Video)**

(**=Requires Registration)

Sufjan Stevens Live

2005-07-08T22:29:00.000-04:00

I'm feeing generous today, so here's another little gift:

Sufjan Stevens recently performed a few songs for WNYC in New York. Here's some fresh mp3s of that performance:

EDIT [7/24] - Aparently these were down for a bit. I fixed the link.

MP3 Chicago (Live)
MP3 Casimir Pulaski Day (Live)
MP3 John Wayne Gacy Jr. (Live)

As always, please right-click and save as.

The info and the stream for that performance/interview is here.

The Mountain Goats + Spoon KEXP Performances

2005-07-08T11:34:00.000-04:00

In lieu of posting reviews (or anything else for that matter) today, I thought I'd offer a few things for download.

First up is The Mountain Goats' recent KEXP performance. John Darnielle even premieres a new song.

And remember PLEASE right-click and Save As.

UPDATE 7/13/05: I just noticed these were down, they're back up again. Enjoy.

Live @ KEXP 6/16/05:
MP3 ~~Song for Dennis Brown~~
MP3 ~~The Mummy's Hand~~ <---- NEW!
MP3 ~~Dilaudad~~
MP3 ~~Deinara Crush~~
MP3 ~~You or Your Memory~~

Next up is Spoon's recent KEXP performance. It's Britt Daniel at his best.

Again, please right-click and Save As.

Live @ KEXP 6/18/05
MP3 ~~Anything You Want~~
MP3 ~~I Summon You~~
MP3 ~~Two Sides of Monsieur Valentine~~

Enjoy.

The Prayers and Tears of Arthur Digby Sellers

2005-07-07T09:57:00.000-04:00

These guys blew me away. It's indie/folk at it's best. Their latest release, The Mother of Love Emulates the Shapes of Cynthia, is a collection of "lost love" songs, each holding their own unique sense of loss and hope. Singer Perry Wright pronounces his every thought with strain and heartache, a la Conor Oberst. Although, I have to say, Wright has quite a bit more vocal control than Oberst does. The Prayers and Tears... also has the same sense of playful sorrow seen in Sufjan Stevens or Pedro the Lion recordings. It's not "sad," per say, but it gives off a very introspective sense of yearning that's mature enough not to be whiny and whiny enough not to be depressing. It's beautiful and comforting in the worst kind of way: we've all felt the way their music sounds. They're worth the listen.

From 2003's Psalterie
The Sun Fell On You

On the Occasion of a Departure

From 2005's The Mother of Love Emulates the Shapes of Cynthia
Cannot Eat Better Not Sleep

Concerning Lessons Learned From the Aliens

Check out their website and head to their label to buy their music.

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Odds and Ends

Four explosions in London have killed [EDIT 12:19 PM] 33 [/EDIT] and injured hundreds. More info here and here. My heart goes out to those affected by this, as London is an amazing, amazing city filled with great people.

Thanks go out to Funtime OK for linking to me. Everyone should check it out, it's a great blog.

Lil Kim gets 366 days in jail after being convicted of 3 counts of perjury and 1 count of conspiracy back in March. Sucks for her. (via Pink is the New Blog)

Devendra Banhart has announced some tour dates. (via Pitchfork)

Find Illinois on Tuesday even though it was supposed to be delayed? Here's why.

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Daily Torrents

U2 - Joshua Tree**
Broken Social Scene - Live in Toronto 8/27/04**

(**=Requires Registration)

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Random Downloads

Sufjan Stevens - "The Lord God Bird"
OK GO - "A Million Ways to Be Cruel" (VIDEO)*

(*=QuickTime Required)

New Sufjan Stevens Song

2005-07-06T21:53:00.000-04:00

Sufjan Stevens - The Lord God Bird

I got called into work today, so sorry it wasn't posted earlier.

Enjoy, it's quite beautiful.

Sodastream

2005-07-06T10:47:00.000-04:00

On a quick note, Firefox is really getting annoying. Too bad Blogspot doesn't support Safari fully.
Luckily, I found these guys through iTunes a few months back. The best I can describe them is that they're a little bit of Wilco's Being There added to some Yo La Tengo. Think late 90's Mojave 3. Their brand of folk/pop is beautiful at times and fun at others. Melodically, it's often like listening to a somber rainy day, offering a sense of subtle longing that Wilco has mastered. These Aussies have been around since '97, so they've got quite a few albums under their belt. In fact they even recorded a set with BBC DJ John Peel. Give these guys a listen.

From 2001's The Hill For Company
MP3 ~~Lushington Hall~~

Check out their website for more info, music, and even a few music videos.

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Odds and Ends

The iTunes release of Sufjan Stevens' latest, Illinois, has two extra tracks: "The Avalanche" and a remix of "Chicago." Both are wonderful. Also, Illinois is number 8 on iTunes' top album list. Props to Sufjan.

On a related note, a new Sufjan Stevens song entitled "The Lord God Bird" will premier today of NPR's All Things Considered at 4:36 and 6:36pm EST. I'll be offering it for download around 5pm or so EST.

*Sixeyes has some solo demos from Clap Your Hands and Say Yeah frontman Alec Ounsworth here.

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Daily Torrents

They Might Be Giants - Mink Car**
M83 - S/T**
Emmylou Harris - The Very Best of: Heartaches & Highways**

(**=Requires Registration)

Psapp + Late Monday Mix

2005-07-05T12:04:00.000-04:00

I have a psudeo-double post today, so make sure you check it out.

One of my favorite music blogs recently (Funtime OK) posted about these guys the other day and I was pleanstly suprised. Nick (over at Funtime OK) described them as what The Books' new one should have sounded like, and I'd have to agree. Psapp is a nice combination of pop and fun, giving off a wonderful sense of playfulness and charm, all the while exploring a minimalist pop sensibility. Their songs are like little tunes you'd play for a group of 6 year olds just to keep their attention for a few minutes. The video for "About Fun" is one of the best I've seen in a while and is composed using the drawings of Psapp's Galia Durrant. Make sure you at least check that out.

From 2004's Tiger, My Friend
MP3 ~~Calm Down~~
MP3 ~~King Kong~~

VIDEO About Fun (QuickTime Required)

Make sure you check out their website for more info.

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Monday Mix #4 (Abridged)

So... I basically forgot that yesterday was Monday. So here's a mix of some stuff I've been listening to for the past week or so. It's abridged this week to save time and space. It's 5 songs instead of the usual 10.

Here's the tracklist:
1. The National - "Mr. November" (From Alligator)
2. Athlete - "Wires" (From Tourist)
3. Black Mountain - Druganaut (From Black Mountain)
4. The Danielson Famile - Good News for the Puss Puckers (From Fetch the Compass Kids)
5. Gatsby's American Dream - "Just Like Heaven" (Cure Cover) (From Punk Goes 80's)

Get it here (via Yousendit)

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Odds and Ends

The THe Unoffical Apple Weblog pointed me out to a wooden case iPod mod. Neat.

There's an awesome site with a bunch of Live 8 show downloads here.

Tiny Mix Tapes has a very well done review of Sufjan Stevens' new (and delayed) disk Illinois right here.

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Daily Torrents

Boards of Canada - Music Has the Right To Children**
Various Songs and Sounds from Ren and Stimpy**

(**=Requires Registration)

The Scotland Yard Gospel Choir

2005-07-04T14:38:00.000-04:00

As most of you know by now, I'm a sucker for pop music. Call it my achillies heel. But every once and a while, I don't feel bad for liking pop music. Case in point: The Scotland Yard Gospel Choir. The first thing I thought of when hearing these guys was "Wow they sound like Belle & Sebastian." Well, they do. But it's not a bad thing. Sounding like one of my favorite bands is a hell of a compliment in my mind. Since their conception in 2002, they've made quite a name for themselves in the crowded Chicago scene. Their infectious and light-hearted indie/pop sounds like something you'd hear on the High Fidelity Soundtrack, and for good reason. Give a listen if you're into Camea Obscura or Belle & Sebastian.

From 2003's I Bet You Say That To All The Boys
She Just Wants To Move

Sometimes I Say The Stupidest Things

Bet You Never Thought It Would Be Like This

Hit up their website for more info and to buy their music.

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Odds and Ends

Largeheartedboy has some nice Live 8 torrents/downloads here.

Sufjan Stevens' new disk has officially been delayed until August 2nd.

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Daily Torrents

The Killers - Live @ Live 8
Athlete - Tourist

This just in...

2005-07-03T16:01:00.000-04:00

After getting up really early on a Sunday and working 7 hours... and having my entry erased with Safari flaked out on me, I think I'm going to pass on posting today.

I'll make sure I have a big update tomorrow.

The All-American Rejects

2005-07-02T17:28:00.000-04:00

Don't look at me like that. Or scoff at the notion of these guys. They are so damn catchy and I'm just a sucker for good pop music. They've finished their second full length and it's awaiting it's release July 12. They've made the jump from an indie label (Doghouse) to a major (Interscope), but they're still making catchy-as-hell pop music. I know, these guys aren't "cool" or anything anymore but I don't really care. Move Along initially struck me as boring and more of the same, which I chalk up to listening to too much "good" music lately. But after a few spins, it grew on me and I released that "more of the same" wasn't a bad thing in this case. I'm not afraid to admit these guys have a place in heart and in my iPod.

From 2005's Move Along
Dirty Little Secret

Dance Inside

Buy their music and check out their website.

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Odds and Ends

The first portions of the line up for this years CMJ has been announced. Wow is that line up sexy (The Arcade Fire, Wolf Parade, John Vanderslice, Of Montreal, The Hold Steady, Lucero, Motion City Soundtrack, Annie, Clap Your Hands and Say Yeah, Denison Witmer, !!! (CHK CHK CHK), Cary Brothers, Nightmare of You, Dressy Bessy, etc.). And to think, there's more to be announced.

Due to legal action over the use of image of Superman on the album cover, Ashmatic Kitty has delayed pre-orders of Sufjan Stevens new disk, Illinois.

AOL is streaming Live 8 performances here.

Islands

2005-07-01T12:48:00.000-04:00

Time didn't allow me to update yesterday, ruining my streak of posting everyday. But anyways, here' s a nice, full update:

Islands

As most of saw, a few days ago I posted about The Unicorns. Well, as some of you know, The Unicorns broke up awhile back. So what are they up to now? To answer that poignant question, I give you Islands. Featuring 2/3 of the Montreal indie/pop/noise/dance trio The Unicorns, Islands picks up where they left off. It's danceable and noisy and full of goofy Canadian goodness. I'm not really sure what all they're up to at the moment, although I do know that they are touring. But anyways, here are two mastered demos from whatever they're working on. Props to Simple Mission and to You Ain't No Picasso for bringing this to my attention.

Flesh (via Simple Mission)

Abominable Snow (via Simple Mission)

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Odds and Ends

Want details on DCfC's new album, Plans? Pitchfork has them here.

Sufjan Stevens recently recorded a song for NPR entitled "The Lord God Bird." Pitchfork is on the ball today and has the info here.

Brooklyn Vegan directing me to an interesting Clap Your Hands and Say Yeah video.

A new Belle and Sebastian album next year?

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Daily Torrents

Clint Mansell - Requiem for a Dream OST**
Xiu Xiu - La Foret**
The Hold Steady - Separation Sunday
Wilco - Live @ the Albright Knox Art Gallery (6-29-05)**

(**=Requires Registration)

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Random Downloads

Bear VS Shark - 5, 6 Kids (from Terrorhawk)
Hot Hot Heat - Middle of Nowhere (from Elevator)
Aloha - The Sound Between (from The Great Communicator...)

The National

2005-06-29T07:24:00.000-04:00

Sorry about the short post yesterday. Here's the full post The National deserve.

The National

Where have these guys been all my life? Hailing from my hometown (Cincinnati, OH), The National is an indie rock quintet packed with talent. Formed in 1999 in Brooklyn, they were immediately met with critical applause. Their debut, The National, was recorded before ever playing a gig. Lead singer Matt Berninger's striking baritone is as morose as it is hauntingly beautiful. When blended with a style of indie rock that honestly pays homage to driving 70's rock you get a very dynamic, elevated sound rarely heard in an indie rock scene obsessed with New Wave inspired synth-rock. Their sophomore effort, Sad Songs for Dirty Lovers, took it a step further. Berninger sings of trophy wives and slipping husbands, seemingly providing a soundtrack for a depressing movie none of us have seen yet. Between the slow, painful ballads are (musically) upbeat indie rock gems ("Murder Me Rachel"). 2004 saw the release of a mini-LP, Cherry Tree. This provides a great mix of their newest release (which I'll get to in a minute) and Sad Songs. It's a little acoustic, a little atmospheric, and a little up-tempo all at the same time. "Wasp Nest" is one of my favorite songs by these guys, and it finds it's home here. Their most recently release, Alligator, has recently become one of my favorite albums released this year. Too bad I didn't get into these guys sooner, because if I had, they'd be near the top of my top 10 of 2005. Alligator is their most musically and lyrically mature album to date. It's an indie rock opus of melancholy, with a dash of Americana thrown in for charm. Songs like "All The Wine" and "City Middle" give me hope that the indie rock world still does have some great talent in it. Hell, even Pitchfork liked these guys, and they don't like anything. The National is currently on tour Europe in support of Alligator, but I'm sure they'll make their way around the 'States sometime late this summer/early fall. Give these guys a listen.

From 2001's The National
Cold Girl Fever

From 2003's Sad Songs for Dirty Lovers
Murder Me Rachel

From 2004's Cherry Tree
Wasp Nest

From 2005's Alligator
~~Abel~~
~~All The Wine~~

Abel (Video)

Seriously guys... buy their music. It's good. And while you're at it, hit up their website.

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Odds and Ends

iTunes 4.9 was released yesterday. New to the program is full support Podcasting support. Neat.

Speaking of Apple, it seems like they're planning something big for July 7th. New iPods maybe?

This made me laugh a little.

The Bumbershoot music festival (Seattle, Labor Day Weekend) is shaping up nicely with Ted Leo, The Decemberists, Devo, and more.

Turin Brakes will be touring the U.S. soon. That show @ the Magic Stick in Detroit caught my eye...

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Daily Torrents

The Mountain Goats - Sunset Tree
Sufjan Stevens - Illinois

A Quick Note...

2005-06-28T11:02:00.000-04:00

Due to time constraints I only have one thing to say today...

Listen to The National. They're amazing. And probably the best thing to come out of Cincinnati. EVER.

That is all.

Monday Mix #3

2005-06-27T11:09:00.000-04:00

Monday Mix #3

Here's my third Monday Mix. As I've said before it's basically a collection/sampling of what I've been listening to the past week.

Get it here(via yousendit).

Here's the tracklist:
1. Bright Eyes - "Landlocked Blues" (from Live Performance in Washington DC)
2. The National - "City Middle" (fromAlligator)
3. Stephen Malkmus - "Post-Paint Boy" (from Face the Truth)
4. Devendra Banhart - "Rejoicing in the Hands" (from Rejoicing in the Hands)
5. Death Cab for Cutie - "Love Song" (Cure Cover)
6. Matt Pond PA - "Measure 3 (Live)" (from Live Performance in Buffalo 11-4-02)
7. The Fire Theft - "Heaven (Live)" (from KEXP Performance)
8. Stellastarr* - "Jenny" (from Stellastarr*)
9. Yo La Tengo - "Tom Courtenay (Acoustic)" (from Prisoners Of Love: A Smattering Of Scintillating Senescent Songs 1985-2003 (Disc 3))
10. Say Anything - "Wow, I Can Be Sexual" (from Vs. Aids Demos)

If anyone would like an individual song, IM me and I'll hook you up.
___________________________________________________________________________

Odds and Ends

Cursive to reunite?

Commonbits has random Daily Show pieces from the past week or so.

___________________________________________________________________________

Daily Torrents

Largeheartedboy has a nice collection here. (Yea.. I'm lazy.)

The Unicorns

2005-06-26T05:06:00.001-04:00

The Unicorns

Matt over at You Ain't No Picasso is fan of these guys so I decided to check them out. And wow... they're damn good. Too bad they broke up, but I guess it's better to appreciate them posthumously then not all. I kind of hate to throw out the obvious comparison to Neutral Milk Hotel, but it's hard not to see the similarities. It's a little lo-fi mixed with some indie/pop with a little bit of just noise. They're sort of what like Architecture in Helsinki is trying to be. Check it out.

From Who Will Cut Our Hair When We're Gone?
~~I Don't Wanna Die~~
~~I Was Born (A Unicorn)~~

Check out their fan site here and you can get bootlegs and out-of-print EP's over at this forum.

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Odds and Ends

I know I've said it enough, but Tom Cruise is insane.

Well-known promoter Chet Helms died yesterday. He launched Janus Joplin's career back in 1967.

Pitchfork has a update on Clap Your Hands and Say Yeah (including tour dates).

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Daily Torrents

Sleater-Kinney - The Woods
Yo La Tengo - Prisoners of Love
At the Drive-In - The Station is Non-Operational

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Random Downloads

Statistics - Final Broadcast

My Top 10 of '05 (Well... the first half that is...)

2005-06-25T15:37:00.000-04:00

Since everyone and their Mom is doing this, I thought I'd go ahead and do it.

So here ya go, my top 10 of the first of '05:

10. Crooked Fingers - Dignity and Shame
While this record is melodically kind of dark, it's very beautiful and hopeful at the same time. Definitely the best effort by these guys. The title track is excellent.
9. Maximo Park - A Certain Trigger
Yea, I know, it's more of that "new-wave" revival shit right? Well, not really. These songs are just pretty damn good, regardless of their musical style. A Certain Trigger is a lot better then anything The Futureheads or The Killers are offering. "Graffiti" and "Apply Some Pressure" are great listens.
8. Spoon - Gimme Fiction
I can't really say anything bad about this album. Just go check it out. Standout tracks are "I Summon You" (another one of my favorites this year) and "Sister Jack."
7. Clap Your Hands and Say Yeah! - Clap Your Hands and Say Yeah
As I said in yesterday's post, these guys are the real deal. The only thing keeping them out of my top 3 is the occasional down spot on their S/T debut. It's really damn good nonetheless. Make sure you check out "Is This Love?" as it's one of my favorite songs released this year.
6. The Decemberists - Picaresque
Overall just an amazing album that fails to have any standout moments. It's more classic Decemberists. Her Majesty is still my favorite by these guys, but this has swooped in close behind. "Engine Driver" and "We Both Go Down Together" are the standouts.
5. Stars - Set Yourself on Fire
Indie/Pop at it's best. The songs are catchy as hell and sincere to boot. Another great album from this wonderful band. Check out "Reunion" and "Set Yourself on Fire."
4. Bright Eyes - I'm Wide Awake, It's Morning
Easily Conor Oberst's best album. I'm Wide Awake, It's Morning is a quiet and honest folk album. "First Day of My Life" and "Road to Joy" should be checked out.
3. The Mountain Goats - The Sunset Tree
Not my favorite Mountain Goats album, but it's hard to live up to Tallahassee in my mind. It is, however, more classic John Darnielle, which is a great thing. Check out "This Year" and "Love, Love, Love."
2. Antony and the Johnsons - I Am A Bird Now
Some may be turned off by his trembling voice, but underneath is a album full of great and classic songs paying homage to the great blues/jazz albums of the past while incorporating a style very much his own . "Hope There's Someone" is easily the standout track.
1. Sufjan Stevens - Illinois
I'm guessing this one stays up here for the rest of the year. It's beautiful and sincere. Yes, melodically and structurally it is very similar to Greetings From Michigan, but I'm sure as hell not gonna say that's a bad thing. Highlights include "Chicago" and "The Predatory Wasp of the Palisades is Out to Get Me."

Two Short Reviews

2005-06-24T12:01:00.000-04:00

Clap Your Hands and Say Yeah - S/T

At their best, Clap Your Hands and Say Yeah emit the same kind of energy that the Talking Heads did. And that's a really big compliment. Their debut album (which is ingeniously self-titled) gives off a very comforting sense of awkward reassurance; the kind Neutral Milk Hotel still gives me. About 3/4 of the album The other 1/4, however, bores the crap out of me. Sort of the same way The Mars Volta does. But when they're on, THEY'RE ON. Their best is better then most of what I've heard this year, even with the occasional down spot. Yeah, I know... I know, everyone and their Mom are raving about these guys, but it's for good measure. These guys are for real so be sure to check them out.

RATING: 8.5/10

~~Is This Love?~~

Buy it here.

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

The Foo Fighters - In Your Honor

I was trying to figure out what exactly to say about this album and I kept thinking of the same word: crap. It's boring and overdone and just more of the same boring radio rock. The acoustic CD is a lot better, but that isn't saying much. I would upload a song, but I deleted it from my computer right after I was finished listening. The only thing keeping it from being a 1, is the decent acoustic CD. If you're going to listen to any part, make sure it's that. Otherwise don't bother. Trust me, pass this one up.

RATING: 3/10

Don't buy it here.

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Odds and Ends

It looks like "Indie-Yuppie" has finally become a genre. (via Brooklyn Vegan)

*Sixeyes is all fresh and new... and still one of my favorite music blogs.

Noel Gallagher (of Oasis) must have eaten paint chips as a child.

Rocky Votolato

2005-06-23T12:16:00.000-04:00

Rocky Votolato

I would easily note Rocky Votolato as one of, if not the, biggest musical influence I have. His brand of folk-tinged acoustic rock is as soothing as it is scathing. His voice is stressed like that of a man who's had one to many nights drinking; the kind of singer you'd hear in a roadside bar a couple of miles off the main road. He pushes his voice as far as he can in many of his songs, laying everything he has emotionally on the line for everyone to hear. He sings like he's been through years of pain, yet he never crosses over into depressing. His songs are amazingly powerful and poignant, covering everything from corporate greed, suicide, and loss. His most recent album, Suicide Medicine, was produced by Death Cab for Cutie guitar player Chris Walla, and Walla's amazing production and influence shows throughout the album. Suicide Medicine is his most mature and compelling work to date. If you download only one of the songs I've posted, make sure it's "The Rain Will Come," as it's easily one of his most dynamic and beautiful songs he's ever written.

From Burning My Travels Clean
Crabtree and Evelyn
Without Eyes Still Seeing

From The Light and the Sound EP
The Rain Will Come

From Suicide Medicine
Mixtapes/Cellmates
~~Montana~~

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Odds and Ends

FAMILY GUY: THE MOVIE!!!

This album has the potential to be redicuously good.

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Daily Torrents

Broken Social Scene - Bee Hives
Collection of Triumph the Insult Comic Dog Shorts
Elliott Smith - LIVE 1997-05-03, Stinkweed's, Tempe, AZ [DVD]**

(**=Requires Registration)

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Random Downloads

Ratatat - "Seventeen Years" (from Ratatat)
The Promise Ring - "Say Goodbye Good" (from Wood/Water)
The New Pornographers - "Use It" (from Twin Cinema)

Page France

2005-06-22T14:39:00.000-04:00

Page France

I heard about this great band from You Ain't No Picasso a few weeks backs. And holy crap these guys are good. On the amazing Indie-O-Meter, I'd put them in between Pre-Transatlanticism Death Cab For Cutie and The Weakerthans with a little American Analog Set thrown in for good measure. They're catchy as hell and kind of quirky at the same time. But that doesn't take away from their music like it does with the indie worlds current love: Architecture in Helsinki. Their most recent release, Come, I'm a Lion!, has been out for awhile now and is worth the pick up. It's a collection of wonderful, often very simple, indie/pop songs. They'll be releasing a new full length, entitled Hello, Dear Wind, in the next month or so, so be on the look out it.

From Come, I'm a Lion!
Spine
~~Air Pollution~~
~~Rhythm~~
~~So Sweetly Around Me~~

Hit up their website here and buy their music while you're there.

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Odds and Ends

The American Film Institute recently released their top 100 movie quotes of all time. Read about it here.

Seu Jorge has scheduled some American tour dates.

___________________________________________________________________________

Daily Torrents

Mae - Destination: B-Sides
Transplants - Haunted Cities
Broken Social Scene - You Forgot It In People**
TV on the Radio - Desperate Youth, Blood Thirsty Babes**

(**=Requires Registration)
___________________________________________________________________________

Random Downloads

Rocky Votolato - "Suicide Medicine" (from Suicide Medicine)
...And You Know Will Us By The Trail of the Dead - "Crowning of the Heart (Demo)"
Arab Strap - "Who Named the Days (from Monday at the Hug & Pint)
Simon Joyner - "Blue" (from Lost With the Lights On)

Hanalei

2005-06-21T15:45:00.000-04:00

Hanalei

Hanalei is the solo project of Brian Moss (formerly of The Ghost). It's good. VERY GOOD. Blend some folk, americana, indie, and pop with a little bit of electronica and you have Hanalei. Charming pop songs are his specialty. We Are All Natural Disasters, his newest release (and his only full length), is a great collection of songs about dissention, strife, love, and even marriage. Lyrically, he's "sweetly" honest, straying from cliche's and metaphors; instead relying on very common phrasing and structure. When he sings he sounds like he's reciting a story from his own life, not just a singing a song. All of his songs are based around his vocals and an acoustic guitar, with electronic beats and bloops acting as his band. Great if you're into The Shins or The Postal Service.

From We Are All Natural Disasters
Action Drum
~~Eulogy~~

Check out his website and buy his music.
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Odds and Ends

Wow. I guess the big music news for the day is that Billy Corgan is going to revive the Smashing Pumpkins.

Ashmatic Kitty has the new Sufjan Stevens CD, Come On! Feel the Illinoise! for sale for only $10. It's definitely my favorite album so far this year.

Tom Cruise needs to get a sense of humor.
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Daily Torrents

The Boy Least Likely To - Best Party Ever (Import)
Boards of Canada - In A Beautiful Place Out In The Country

Monday Mix #2

2005-06-20T12:55:00.000-04:00

Sorry for the short entry, I go straight from class to work today. A full update tomorrow.

Monday Mix #2

Here's the mix for this week. It's bascially a sampling of what I've been listening/am listening to. Get it ~~here~~ (via Yousendit).

Here's the tracklisting:
1. Maximo Park - Grafitti (from A Certain Trigger)
2. The New Amsterdams - "Strangled by the Thought (All I Want Is You)" (from Killed or Cured Demos)
3. Denison Witmer - "Forgiven" (from Of Joy and Sorrow)
4. Death Cab for Cutie - "State St. Residential (Live)" (from Live Room)
5. Coco Rosie - "Beautiful Boyz" (from Noah's Ark)
6. Camera Obscura - "Before You Cry" (from Underachievers Please Try Harder)
7. Architecture In Helsinki - "Maybe You Can Owe Me" (from In Case We Die)
8. Annie - "Always Too Late" (from Anniemal)
9. Math & Physics Club - "Sixteen and Pretty" (from Weekends Away EP)
10. The Scotland Yard Gospel Choir - "Bet You Never Though It Would Be Like This" (from I Bet You Say That To All The Boys)

___________________________________________________________________________

Odds and Ends

My Old Kentucky Blog has a White Stripes concert bootleg up. Check it out.

Crooks and Liars is still getting my attention.

This made me laugh.

...And this makes me sad.

Pitchfork has info on the Kill Rock Stars Compilation DVD here.

Denison Witmer

2005-06-19T14:45:00.000-04:00

Short entry today, but it's quality over quantity right?

Denison Witmer

I guess you could consider Denison Witmer a singer/songwriter. You know, the "one guy with his guitar" type thing. The thing is, using such a simple title doesn't do his beautiful folk/rock music justice. His music is in the same vein as Sufjan Stevens, Damien Jurado, and Pedro the Lion, and interestingly enough, can easily be described as a combination of all three. He has the hushed, folk sensibility of Stevens, the sincerity of Jurado, and the religious metaphor laced lyrics of Pedro the Lion. His musical style can be seen by looking at his self-professed influences: Red House Painters and Graham Nash. Witmer's song are soft and elegant, staying close enough to his folk inspired roots, but he keeps his music accessible enough to grab all kinds of listeners. Witmer's a great talent and is worth checking out.

From 2002's Philadelphia Songs
24 Turned 25

From 2004's The River Bends and Flows Into the Sea
Are You lonely

Check out his website here and buy his music here.
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Odds and Ends

This made me laugh pretty hard. (via Brooklyn Vegan)

Um... should this be taken seriously.

The Go! Team will be remixing their latest release Thunder, Lightning, Strike for it's American release.

Crooked Fingers

2005-06-18T15:02:00.000-04:00

Crooked Fingers

Better Propaganda is becoming more and more useful every day. As I looked around for some new music the other day I stumbled upon these guys. Formed from the remains of Archers of Loaf, Crooked Fingers excels at creating somber indie rock. Singer Eric Bachman's voice immediately reminded me of a combination of Neil Diamond's and Bob Dylan's, but trust me, that isn't a band thing. Their newest release. Dignity and Shame is somewhat different then their past releases, as the songs have taken on a more positive tone. While their past albums were tales of abuse and alcoholism, Dignity and Shame emits a solemn hopefulness about love and life. The songs are beautiful and simple and when combined with Bachman's bluesy voice, create an amazing feeling of listening to honest folk/indie/rock. Check them out if you like M. Ward or the aforementioned Bob Dylan.

From 2005's Dignity and Shame
Dignity and Shame"

From 2003's Red Devil Dawn
You Can Never Leave

Buy their music here and visit their website.
___________________________________________________________________________

Odds and Ends

Awww... FUCK!

The new partnership between Apple and Intel is starting to look pretty good.

The Reviews for Batman Begins keep getting better and better.

Perhaps my favorite non-music blog to visit over the last week or two has been Crooks and Liars. It's politics and humor all rolled into one.

I won't say this very often, but Pitchfork has an accurate(??) review of the Foo Fighter's new double record, In You Honor.
___________________________________________________________________________

Daily Torrents

Tears for Fears - The Best Of (Remixes)
Nick Drake - Pink Moon
Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds _ Let Love In
Late Night with Conan O'Brian (6/16/05) w/ Heather Locklear, Paul Giamatti, and Caesers
___________________________________________________________________________

Random Downloads

Andrew Bird - "A Nervous Tic Motion of the Head to the Left" (from The Mysterious Production of Eggs)
Damien Jurado - "Paperwings" (from I Break Chairs)

Three Short Reviews

2005-06-17T14:03:00.000-04:00

I keep trying to think of things to do for this thing, so I've decided that every Friday, I'm going to write a couple of reviews of recently released CDs.

Coldplay - X & Y

I know I mentioned it before, but this album just bores me. I appreciate Coldplay and everything, but I just can't seem to get into X & Y. The single, "Speed of Sound," is easily one of the more average songs on the album and doesn't really give a very accurate outlook on the album. There are a few highlights, however, such as "Fix You" and "What If?" The latter is singer Chris Martin's beautiful ballad addressed to his daughter, Apple. In fact, I think the best song on the album, wasn't even included on the U.S. release. "How You See The World" is one of their best songs in years, yet only made it onto the Japanese release as a bonus track. Most of the songs, however, don't do anything for me. I feel like I've heard it all before. Seems like a good band has finally leveled out musically.

RATING: 6/10

~~How You See The World (Japanese Bonus Track)~~

Buy it here.

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

Common - Be

It's rare that a hip/hop album will get any playtime from me. The genre has become too watered down and focused on the "bling" aspect of urban culture. However, the occasional artist or album will catch my ear. Common's politically and emotionally charged album, Be, is easily the best hip/hop album I've heard this year. The albums title song is as catchy as any pop or rock song, which peaks with the inciteful: "I looked into my daughters eyes/And realized I'm gonna learn through her/The messiah might even return through her/If I'm gonna do it/I'll have to change the world through her." Featured contributions from Kanye West, John Mayer, John Legend, and more, Be is one of those rare hip/hop albums that actually can grab and keep my attention with it's postive and powerful message. Worth a listen if you're into 2Pac, Talib Kweli, or Kanye West.

RATING: 8/10

Be

Buy it here.

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Paul Anka - Rock Swings

As some of you know, I'm a huge fan of big band/lounge music. It just tickles me inside. Old Blue Eyes and Deano can put a smile on my face no matter what is going on. So enter Paul Anka. His newest studio album, Rock Swings, is a collection of modern pop/rock covers. These aren't Richard Cheese-esque, mind you, but very well done big band/lounge versions of very memorable songs. The arrangements are really well done and not rushed in order to just sell some records. Standouts include "Everybody Hurts," "Smells Like Teen Spirit," and "Tears in Heaven." The fact that he covers Eric Clapton's most famous track and does it well says a lot about the record itself. Definitely a nice pick up for any fans of lounge/big band music.

RATING: 8/10

~~Tears in Heaven (Eric Clapton Cover)~~

Buy it here.

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Odds and Ends

Damn you Tom, for proposing to my woman.

I've been wondering the same thing for a long time.

It looks like Dell is keen on Apple's OS.

Windsor for the Derby

2005-06-16T12:40:00.000-04:00

Today's update will be somewhat smaller then past ones as I work a nice 7 hr shift today. But here ya go:

FEATURED: Windsor for the Derby

A few nights ago as I was scowering Secretly Canadian's website for information and pictures on Antony and the Johnsons, I checked out a few of the other bands the label had to offer. The one that stood out was Windsor for the Derby. I guess the best way to describe their music would be to call it "slighty skewed indie/pop." While not as upbeat and "poppy" as say Belle & Sebastian their sound still maintains the kind of charm that the indie/pop genre is known to produce. Their songs come off somewhat awkward, but not in a way that doesn't feel intentional. Definitely worth checking out. Their 6th full length Giving Up The Ghost is out August 16th on Secretly Canadian.

From 2004's We Fight Till Death
Melody of A Fallen Tree
A Spring Like Sixty

Check out their page here and buy their music while you're there. Also, there's a nice fan site with photos, tour info, and more mp3's here.

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Odds and Ends

VH1 has a very well done summary of last weekend's Bonnaroo Festival (via Stereogum).

Big Brother really is getting out of control. Although it is nice to see this happening.

Don't get me wrong, Coldplay's new album, X & Y, is very well done, but I just find it kind of boring. I guess the 730,000+ who bought it the first week don't though.

The reviews for Batman Begins just keep getting better and better.

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Daily Torrents

Paul Anka - Rock Swings
Miles Davis - Live in Berlin 10-29-1983**

(**=Requires Registration)
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Random Downloads

Volcano, I'm Still Excited! - "In Green"
The Elected - "Greetings in Braille"
Iron and Wine - "Woman King"

Sufjan Stevens

2005-06-15T15:31:00.000-04:00

FEATURED: Sufjan Stevens

No musician has in recent memory has grabbed my attention like Mr. Stevens has. Over the last few weeks I've searched out almost every recording he's participated in (yes, even those elusive Marzuki ones). His songs are as eclectic as they are beautiful, acting like poetry to your ears (call it cliche', but it's the truth). Stevens' use of vocal melody is absolutely incredible, in that his voice alone almost pushes along every one his songs (although he does have nice accompaniment from the Illinoise Makers! (formerly the Michigan Militia)), giving them each a sense of hushed sincerity reminiscent of the late Elliott Smith. His new album (out July 5, unless you pre-ordered it and got it in the mail already) Come On! Feel the Illinoise! is an aural masterpiece, churning out beautifully rendered folk songs ("Casimir Pulaski Day") along side indie/pop gems ("Chicago") and wonderfully charming instrumental interludes ("To The Workers Of The Rockford River Valley Region, I Have An Idea Concerning Your Predicament, And It Involves Shoe String, A Lavender Garland, And Twelve Strong Women"). As the second chapter of his ambitious 50 States Project (in which he will release a record for each of the 50 States over the next fifty years or so), it doesn't seem like Ilinois can ever be topped. His first entry in the 50 States series, 2003's Greetings From Michigan!, is almost equally outstanding, portraying everything from the sorrow and hopelessness of those living in run down urban regions like Flint ("Flint (For the Unemployed and Underpaid)") to the quirky stereotypes applied to "Yuppers" ("The Upper Peninsula"). Last years Seven Swans, while a brief tangent from his abitious project, is just as beautiful. Dealing directly with the stories of the bible and his youth, Seven Swans is a lot more subtle and personal then Illinois or Michigan, but just as well done. It's not often you find such a personal and yet universal record dealing with religion. But Stevens' biblical folk masterpiece does just that. It moves you in a way that doesn't make you think about his faith and his beliefs, but it makes you look at your own through his elegant and often metaphor-filled songs. He puts himself into each of his songs and it really does show. Sufjan Stevens is one of the premier song writers of the day. Hands down. His music is worth every moment of your time.

From 2003's Greetings From Michigan!
Holland
~~Romulus~~

From 2004's Seven Swans
~~The Dress Looks Nice On You~~

From 2005's Come On! Feel the Illinoise!
~~Casimir Pulaski Day~~
~~Chicago~~

From 2000's 8.21 A Blue Bunny Compilation
~~Woman at the Well~~

From an unknown live performance
~~Chicago (Banjo Only) (Live)~~

Please, buy his music here or here. Also, check out his website. ___________________________________________________________________________

Odds and Ends

Tom Cruise just keeps getting creepier and creepier (via Pink is the New Blog).

Maybe this will stop some of the Terry Shiavo controversy. Then again, maybe not.

Al Franken's Radio Show + iTunes Music Store?

Borrowed Tunes has a review of the new White Stripes album, Get Behind Me Satan. I agree whole-heartedly.

Sufjan Stevens has expanded his Illinois Tour. Pitchfork has the dates. I already have my tickets to the 9/14 show in Newport, KY. It's only June and I can't wait.

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Daily Torrents

The Arcade Fire - The Arcade Fire EP
Sin City OST
Mastodon - 9 Song Demo [FLAC]**
Morrissey - Live in London (1991)**

(**Requires Registration)
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Random Downloads

Say Hi To Your Mom - 'The Twenty-Second Century"(from Ferocious Mopes)
Dressy Bessy - "Side 2" (from Electrified)
Camera Obscura - "I Love My Jean" (from I Love My Jean Single)

Antony and the Johnsons

2005-06-14T22:26:00.000-04:00

I was saving this for tomorrow, but it's done, so what the hell....

FEATURED: Antony and the Johnsons

Androgyny never was my favorite topic (besides SNL's Pat), but I guess I can ignore it in this case. Yea, yea I know I'm way late on this one, but Antony and the Johnsons deserve all the attention they can get. Antony's quivering voice gives me chills everytime I listen to them. It's rare that something can seem so fresh and new, but feel so established and perfectly aged at the same time. But Antony and Co. do just that. I Am A Bird Now feels like a great soul/blues album from the 40's, but still sets itself apart. Featuring Rufus Wainwright, Lou Reed, Devandra Bernhart, Boy George, and more, the album pays great homage to the great blues/soul albums of the past. Definitely worth a listen.

From 2005's I Am A Bird Now
Hope There's Someone
Hope There's Someone (Video)

From Live at the Knitting Factory NYC, Jan. 2001
~~God With No Tear~~

Check out their website and buy their music here or here. ___________________________________________________________________________

Odds and Ends

It looks like Phil Jackson is coaching the Lakers again. It doesn't matter, I still think Kobe is overrated.

After all the courtroom drama, I guess Michael Jackson really is a "Smooth Criminal."

The L.A. Times has interesting article on Morgan Spurlock's (of Super Size Me fame) new televison show 30 Days.

Tom Cruise has really lost it.

He be fast.. Man.

The New York Times has a review of last weekends Bonaroo Festival here.

This had me laughing harder than anything in recent memory. (Give it a few minutes to load, it's a pretty big file)

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Daily Torrents

The Number Twelve Looks Like You - Nuclear. Sad Nuclear
Drive-By Truckers - Live @ Cat's Cradle, Chapel Hill, NC 10/10/2003**
Neutral Milk Hotel - Live @ Cat's Cradle, Chapel Hill, NC 3/4/1998**
Doug: Complete Season 1**

(**=Requires Registration) ___________________________________________________________________________

Random Downloads

Random Family Guy Music
Rivers and Matt (of Weezer) - Undone/The Sweater Song (Live) (VIDEO)

Shearwater

2005-06-14T08:44:00.000-04:00

FEATURED: Shearwater

"Ambient/Folk/Pop/Country" is the best way for me to describe Shearwater. Beautiful and longing, their most recent release, Winged Life, is eclectic and somber, but doesn't bring you down in a way that you might expect. Lyrically, it's very honest and simple; not pushing too far, or coming up too short. With Winged Life Shearwater has created a record that is truly just very nice to the ears. Jim Sheff's somber voice (think Ben Folds having a really bad day) is perfect for delivering their mopy, Neutral Milk Hotel-esque songs about life, the great outdoors, and change. This is definitely the kind of album you could listen to while stuck inside the house on a rainy day. Just charming and beautiful. Worth the listen if you're into Sufjan Stevens or the aforementioned Neutral Milk Hotel and Ben Folds.

From 2004's Winged Life
Whipping Boy
The World in 1984

From Thieves
Let The Bomb's Fall (I Can't Wait)

**NOTE: These are not hosted by me.**

Check out more songs at their website. And buy their music here.
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Odds and Ends

Apparently, I'm not the only one sick of Apple's iPod Commercials. Don't get me wrong, I love Apple (although I'm still skeptical of their recent move to Intel chips) and my iPod, but those commercials just get on my nerves.

It looks like my poor Katie has been brainwashed. What a shame.

If this is any indication of how the new Batman movie is, color me excited.

The L.A. Times has a nice article about Sleater-Kinney.

I'm going with Firefox.

Some good new releases today including Dressy Bessy, Bear Vs. Shark, Brian Eno, and Aesop Rock (all links to Amazon.com via Largeheartedboy).
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Daily Torrents

Rocky Votolato - Burning My Travels Clean
Doves - Some Cities**
The Decemberists - Live @ The World Cafe, 6/9/2004**
Pete and Pete: Season 1**

(**=Requires Registration)
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Random Downloads

Half-Handed Cloud - "Animals Are Cut In Two" (from Thy Is A Word and Feet Need Lamps)
The Mountain Goats - "Two-Headed Boy" (Neutral Milk Hotel Cover)
The National - "Wasp Nest" (from Cherry Tree)
Iron & Wine - "Southern Anthem" (from The Creek Drank the Cradle)
Antony and the Johnsons - "River of Sorrow" (from Antony and the Johnsons)

Monday Mix #1

2005-06-13T14:36:00.000-04:00

Monday Mix #1

So here's the mix for the week. Get the zipped file ~~here~~ (via yousendit).
Tracklist:
1. The Most Serene Republic - "Content Was Always My Favorite Colour"
2. Math & Physics Club - "Weekends Away"
3. The Mountain Goats - "Up The Wolves"
4. Sufjan Stevens - "Rake"
5. Imogen Heap - "Hide and Seek"
6. Iron & Wine - "Teeth in the Grass"
7. Joseph Arthur - "In The Sun"
8. Four Tet - "Iron Man"
9. Joanna Newsom - "Sadie"
10. The White Stripes - "Take, Take, Take"

All 10 songs are MP3s. If the link exceeds it's limits, let me know and I'll re-upload it.
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Odds and Ends

So the big news of the day is that Michael Jackson was aquitted of all charges. Can't say I'm suprised.

MySpleen has been my go to for Torrents this last week. Where else will you find entire seasons of Pete and Pete, Rocko's Modern Life, and the most up to date episodes of Robot Chicken?

So, aparently, Pink Floyd is getting back together to perform at Live 8.

Um... does this scare anyone else? Just wondering...

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Daily Torrents

Family Guy, Season 3, Episode 5
American Dad, Season 1, Episode 6
Belle & Sebastian - Tiger Milk
Doves - Some Cities Ben Folds - Live @ WXPN, World Cafe (11/03/1995)**
Bob Dylan - Live in Atlanta (6/9/1984)**

(**=Requires Registration)

Snow Machine

2005-06-12T14:08:00.000-04:00

Here we go, post #2.

FEATURE: Snow Machine

Maybe it's my love for peppy pop music or maybe it's Katherine McElroy's beautiful voice, but Snow Machine makes me feel all warm inside. Elroy's foray into pop music has resulted in a combination of musically upbeat, yet lyrically dark, pop ballads about love, and well, love. The combination results is something that not only gets your foot tappingly good, but also quite introspective. Elroy sings on "Birmingham:" Your eyes are tired/You're not the boy I knew/Birmingham is slowly killing you/So tell her I'm the one you left behind/And I'll be hear in case you change your mind/Goodbye, showing that this is definitely not a collection of feel-good pop songs; rather, this is a collection of well-made and honest piano-driven ballads.
~~Birmingham~~
~~Camel Lights~~

Buy it here. ___________________________________________________________________________

Odds and Ends

The Russian Futurists were recently held up at the U.S./Canadian border while on their tour with Caribou and The Junior Boys, causing them to miss a few shows. Apparently the mix up was caused by some miscommunication when it came to their work visas. Pitchfork has the full story here.

Speaking of Pitchfork, they have an interesting article on video game music here called "John Cage's XBox."

I've always known Joe Simpson (the Father/Manager of his daughters Ashlee and Jessica) was creepy, but this just kind of scares me.

In my late-night blog browsing last night, I stumbled upon an awesome video of Matt and Rivers of (early) Weezer performing a version of "Undone/The Sweater Song." So what makes it so special? Matt lays down some fly gangsta rap during the verses. You Ain't No Picasso has the video here. ___________________________________________________________________________

Daily Torrents

Kanye West - Freshman Adjustment
Maximo Park - A Certain Trigger
The White Stripes - Get Behind Me Satan

Here we go again...

2005-06-12T01:56:00.000-04:00

So I've decided to try this again. I'm strangely motivated in all aspects of my life lately, so hopefully I can keep this going. I usually have a good amount of free time and maybe this will become a good use of it.

Just a quick post for now.

You Ain't No Picasso pointed out to me yesterday that the amazing (and my current favorite) Sufjan Stevens is coming to Newport, KY in September; his only stop in the next few months anywhere near me. Needless to say, I've already bought tickets. $12 advance tickets are definitely worth it. Interested? Get them here (scroll about halfway down... but also take note of some damn good shows coming up including Travis Morrison, Brendon Benson, and Xiu Xiu). The Southgate House is one of the few things that makes me actually wish I still lived in Cincinnati.

The new White Stripes album, Get Behind Me Satan is actually pretty good. But you didn't hear me say that. Want to hear it? It's here and here (the password is tws).

Common's new album, Be is the first hip/hop album I've listened to in a long, long time. The title song is one of my favorite songs in the last month or so. Get it here if you want.

Death Cab for Cutie is aparently close to finishing their major label debut, Plans. Stereogum has a tenative (and out of order) tracklisting and a live track. Check it here.

Since I'm off work tom., I'll most likely have another entry. More then.