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January 31, 2005
Arcade Fire @ Bowery Ballroom | Pics
After the Arcade Fire played Bowery Ballroom on November 11th, I posted three pictures. I posted photos from their previous CMJ show at Mercury Lounge just a day before that, so I figured I'd wait until next time they got to town to post the rest of the Bowery Ballroom ones. Now they're here, so here they are.
Tonight's (February 1st, 2005) show was supposed to be at Bowery Ballroom again, but due to overwhelming demand, the show was moved to the much larger Webster Hall. Tomorrow, February 2nd, you can catch them at Irving Plaza, if you can get a ticket. If you're not at Webster Hall, or after you get home, don't miss their scheduled appearance on the Conan O' Brien show.
More than one celebrity was in the audience at this show.
The Hidden Cameras played this show too.
Posted in music | pictures at 11:23 PM | Comments (2) | TrackBack
KIKI & HERB Will Die For You at Carnegie Hall | Decemberists cover
Kiki and Herb's final performance at Carnegie Hall is now a double CD. And as cool as I think it is that they covered the Decemberists, I really only wrote that to grab your indie rock attention. It's true. They cover "I was Meant for the Stage," not to mention "When Doves Cry," and "Total Eclipse of the Heart" in what has been described as "an emotionally exhausting, career-capping show."
The CD is officially released on Feb. 1st, and you can order your copy from CD Baby. (where you'll find a much longer description).
For even more info, and to download some tracks, check out Bride of Bloggenstein and Ultrasparky.
Backstage photos here, and a report from the show in September at Cheesedip.
Posted in music at 10:42 PM | Comments (3) | TrackBack
January 30, 2005
iPod Porn
This link is definitely Not Safe For Work.
(via the sticking point)
Related
At these clubs, the DJ is an iPod
Posted in music at 8:06 PM | Comments (28) | TrackBack
Live Pixies Albums Available For Sale | Austin City Limits
You may recall that the last twelve Pixies reunion shows were being taped and sold as limited edition CDs.
Well, some are still available, and you can order them from CD Baby.
The Pixies are also on the current episode of Austin City Limits. You can watch a video clip here.
Previously
Nine Fantastic Days of Shows in December
Posted in music at 4:54 PM | Comments (3) | TrackBack
Lou Reed, Ray Davies & Antony join Tibet House Lineup
Lou Reed (obviously), the Kinks' Ray Davies and vocalist Antony have joined the lineup for the 15th annual Tibet House benefit concert, to be held Feb. 9 at New York's Carnegie Hall. They join a bill that already includes the Black Keys, Patti Smith, Trey Anastasio, Nellie McKay, Chocolate Genius, the Drepung Gomang Monks and longtime artistic director/Tibet House VP, composer Philip Glass.
Related
Lou Reed Signs Worldwide Recording Deal With Sanctuary Records
Previously
Tibet House U.S.'s 15th Annual Benefit Concert
Antony & The Johnsons | I am a Bird Now
The Black Keys record a tribute to Junior Kimbrough
Posted in music at 3:43 PM | Comments (1) | TrackBack
The Go! Team are Coming to NYC
Now I don't need to go to SXSW. The Go! Team are coming to NYC.
March 21st: Mercury Lounge
March 22nd: Southpaw
More on these shows, and other U.S. dates at Coolfer.
Posted in music at 12:03 PM | Comments (8) | TrackBack
Conor Oberst Lives on the Lower East Side
I missed this one two weeks ago...
At the Mercury Lounge, Oberst slinked around unnoticed, unbothered, just another shaggy-haired, hoodie-loving hipster clinging to his bottled beer.
Bright Eyes front man Conor Oberst is the indie-rock champion of Omaha. So what’s he doing living on the Lower East Side?
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UPDATE: Read about Jen's missed encounter with Conor
And (semi-related) from Gawker:
spotted 1/25 at the first bright eyes show at town hall: ben kweller sporting an overgrown hipster mop, devendra banhart making out with a pretty girl in the orchestra during bright eyes’ set, helena christenson purchasing tilly and the wall merchandise, ebon moss-bachrach from porn and chicken and mona lisa smile with a girl i recognized — perhaps rachel mcadams from mean girls?
Posted in music at 10:44 AM | Comments (23) | TrackBack
January 29, 2005
Bright Eyes | When the President Talks to God
If I had to name the most memorable moment of the Bright Eyes show at Town Hall on Tuesday night, it was definitely his performance of "When the President Talks to God." The NYC crowd went nuts to the anti-Bush song, "boos" included.
are the conversations brief or long?
does he ask to rape our womens' rights
or to send poor farm kids off to die?
will the president reccomend an oil hike
when the president talks to god?
The song is not on an album, but as Donewaiting pointed out, you can get it as a free download on iTunes. So what are you waiting for?
Newsday backs my claim.
I took the above photo at the show. Add that to the four others I posted when I got home that night. Full set coming soon.
Posted in music | pictures at 11:09 PM | Comments (175) | TrackBack
Last Nights Party vs The Cobra Snake
Merlin Bronques from Last Night's Party interviewed Mark from the Cobra Snake (previously Polaroid Scene. It was an e-mail list only thing, so here it is for those that missed it.
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A million website hits and 300 thousand photos later, MarK from (the former) PolaroidScene.com and Bronques from LastNightsParty.com finally meet:
MarK: I noticed you have some censoring on your site. Did naked girls change their mind the next morning?
Bronxxx: Only one person has actually asked me to take a photo down because of nudity, most of the time people ask me to take stuff down because of some drama like two people I got on film kissing that shouldn’t be kissing, or sometimes that person in the picture just wasn’t supposed to be at that party in the first place...
MarK: Yeah, for me it varies from people who don’t like the way they look to compromising situations. I got these really good ones recently where the girl had bright pink lipstick on and... so did the guy, but it was rubbed all over his face. You could totally tell...
Bronxxx: I sometimes get people comparing our sites. How ‘bout you?
MarK: Yeah, for a while I was getting alot of emails from people telling me that you’ve been doing it. They just see the connection. In my opinion I think it’s great ‘cause it just adds to the whole thing. The more the merrier. There’s certainly plenty of space for everybody.
Bronxxx: How do you think our websites are different?
MarK: Content mostly. You have a little bit more racy content and a cleaner look, which is nice. I’m not really good at web design, so everything is pretty crude and basic.
Bronxxx: Come on...
MarK: You have navigation bars and... it’s nice ‘cause we’re not exactly the same.
Bronxxx: When you go out and shoot what are you trying to do?
MarK: I don’t ever really know. I just like to see what reactions I can get in front of a camera. As you probably know, you bring out the camera and people show their stuff and get into it. It’s fun to see what the human mind will do for photos.
Bronxxx: Yeah. What’s the editing process like for you? How do you decide what makes it in?
MarK: I’m trying to get a good variety of photos. I noticed that you do it too, where you have the same person in a row and I was doing that for a while and it got good response... the repetitive nature of it. Just trying to get quality photos for the most part.
Bronxxx: You know, on the scene there’s alot of drug use and you’ve chosen not to photograph it...
MarK: Oh, I have... But I just choose not to show it because it’s something that alot of people wouldn’t want to have to look at the next day.
Bronxxx: Not to mention it might get a few people in trouble...
MarK: Yeah. I try to stay on everybody’s good side for the most part, photowise. The drug use is definitely interesting. I’ll save those and in 10 years from now when nobody cares, it would be a good time to show that kinda stuff.
Bronxxx: Do you always ask permission to take your pictures?
MarK: No, I’ll try to take candids too, but it’s pretty hard when people know who you are and they see you coming. They see the flash in the distance and they’re prepared. Inadvertently I’ve made alot of good friends and met alot of great people through this, though.
Bronxxx: Are you into the celebrity aspect of it? Do you want your face to be recognized? I’ve noticed that you’re often in your photos...
MarK: Just in the respect that it would make it easier to do what I wanna do. It’s always sort of refreshing, and brings me back to square one, when I get hassled after taking someone’s photo. I don’t wanna be like “Don’t you know who I am? I’ve been doing this for so long...” Not everyone really cares. It’s such a niche that mainstream doesn’t always respect it. That’s the only reason I would want people to recognize me.
Bronxxx: Where can we go with this MarK? I think what we’re doing is pretty cool, but where can we go from here?
MarK: I saw that you got that article in TimeOut. That was pretty cool. Getting some press is pretty cool. It would be nice to be able to do it in more places all around the world and travel, or getting hooked up with a magazine could be interesting too. We’re being creative and we’re pushing each other to the next level. Sometimes I’ll see something that you do and I’ll be like “That’s good...” ‘Cause we’re doing the same thing, but it’s just the way that you see it versus the way I see it. Artists do that all the time. They’ll be like, I’ll sample this, in music, or they’ll paint a similar thing to get better. The more these kids get used to their photo being taken, the better. They get used to it and it looks better.
Bronxxx: We were talking about this earlier... What can we do as a collabo?
MarK: We should think of something. Maybe a coast to coast concept since we’re on different sides of the US. We should figure something out.
Bronxxx: Yeah, we gotta.
MarK: It’ll be interesting.
Posted in music | pictures at 8:10 PM | Comments (16) | TrackBack
Todd P's Nameless Space | Animal Collective
Todd P, of 'no-bullshit far-flung indie-rock show' fame, opened a new venue in Williamsburg (Brooklyn, NY).
Last night't show featured OCS (John Dwyer from Coachwhips), Black Lights (Kyp Malone from TV on the Radio), Lichens,and Kim & Matt.
Tonight's (Saturday) = Viet Nam (Vice Recs), Blood on the Wall, Psychic Ills, and Civil War.
Tomorrow's = BENEFIT FOR A FAMILY WHO LOST THEIR HOME IN A FIRE w/
X27, Langhorne Slim, GunsFireMayhem, Narchitect, and Tuncan (Irish Rock).
Here's the info you need to get there:
NE Corner of Metropolitan & River St - River St door | WLMSBRG, BKLYN
L - Bedford / G - Metropolitan / JM - Marcy | 8pm | all ages + booze, $7
The official opening party on February 24th features Animal Collective and Nix Noltes, who are playing Bowery Ballroom the next night.
More at Todd's official website and more user-friendly show listings at Oh My Rockness.
Posted in music at 6:44 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
Colin Meloy Stuff
A lot of people have asked me where to get the recording of the Colin Meloy solo show that I posted ten days ago. Well, you can actually get it in two places now: MP3 or FLAC.
In other Colin news...
He was supposed to finish the solo tour in Boston, but there was too much snow.
The Morrissey cover CD was reviewed by Pitchfork, and it's selling for ridiculous amounts on E-Bay.
More in the Monitor give an excellent IM review of the Saturday night show at Fez in NYC. I hadn't realized that the burning smell was someone's hair on fire. I especially didn't realize that the burning hair, "Grace Cathedral Pier" girl, and "I didn't stop" girl, WERE ALL THE SAME PERSON.
Colin announced at the show that he'd be back in NYC for two shows in the spring. One at Irving Plaza. One at Warsaw. Their days in small venues are finished (for now).
Colin also spoke of a Decemberists' DVD featuring an exclusive video and tour bus footage, and the double vinyl version of Picaresque, which will include a bunch of songs that didn't make the CD.
Previously
Decemberists Shakeup | New Lineup
Posted in music at 4:06 PM | Comments (16) | TrackBack
Antony & The Johnsons | I am a Bird Now
The new Antony & The Johnsons album, I am a Bird Now, will be officially released Tuesday February 1st.
Insound printed this excellent synopsis...
'There is a myth that great artists operate in seclusion. Hogwash. One need look no further than to the ten songs of Antony and the Johnsons' new album, I Am A Bird Now, to realize this is an utter fallacy. To be sure, with his androgynous features, the singularly named Antony is an original. Have you ever heard a voice like this, imbued with the transcendental emotion of the blues, yet deployed with an unadorned simplicity reminiscent of medieval music practice, and graced with a top note of childlike wonder? Or songs that blur distinctions of gender and identity, yet which still summon up such powerful feelings: longing, love, lust, loss? No. Because Antony is one-of-a-kind. But he is certainly not alone. We are proud to present you with a record filled with one of the most gifted voices heard in a long time. Antony's vocals are almost inhuman, coming together to compile a creature that's as beautiful and enigmatic as the Peter Hujar photo, Candy Darling on Her Deathbed, that graces its cover. The lead-off single to I Am A Bird Now, "Fistful of Love" is perhaps Antony & the Johnsons' finest work to date. It features a scorching horn section and subcultural icon Lou Reed on vocals and searing lead guitar. In the tradition of subversive soul classics The Crystals' "He Hit me (And It Felt Like a Kiss)" and Millie Jackson's "Hurts So Good," Antony sings this ode to getting the shit kicked out of you and learning to love every minute of it. The complex emotional undertow of this track reaches a cathartic roar by the song's finale. Antony shifts from a tremble to a wail - a tempest of emotion. I Am A Bird Now also includes contributions from friends Boy George (duet with Antony on "You Are My Sister"), Devendra Banhart (vocals on "Spiralling"), and Rufus Wainright (lead vocals on "What Can I Do").'
Order now from Insound.
Stylus gives it an A- (nobody's perfect)
Buked & Scorned is a believer.
Watch animated videos for The Lake and Mysteries of Love (neither of which are on the new album)
Last Train To Cool, calls him Lou Reed's favorite transvestite.
Slate (MSN) links to two streaming songs and puts Antony in the "Class of 2005," along with M.I.A., Brazilian Girls, and Annie.
Previously
Stream Golden Apples of the Sun
The NY Times reviewed the Antony & The Johnsons show at Joe's Pub
Antony & The Johnsons @ Joe's Pub, NYC | Pics
Posted in music at 1:39 PM | Comments (4) | TrackBack
Hot Hot Heat & Louis XIV
Hot Hot Heat were supposed to be the next Strokes. While their 2002 album was popular, they never really reached the next level. That could all change when they release their major label debut album this April. In the meantime, we still have the chance to catch them live during their upcoming, relatively small venue, tour across the U.S.A. In New York, it's March 9th at Bowery Ballroom. Pitchfork has the rest of the dates.
Stereogum's got an MP3.
Opening the shows is the San Diego band, Louis XIV. Readers of Ultragrrrl will remember them as the first release on her Stolen Transmission series of homemade CDs. Signed to Atlantic Records since August 2004, they released an EP this week. Now their name is popping up everywhere.
PopMatters has an interview.
Mystery and Misery highlights the band, with MP3s to download.
Posted in music at 12:59 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
Adam Green | Gemstones
Note the position of "Bright Eyes" on the cover of the new German Rolling Stone. As The Modern Age pointed out, and is further illustrated in "The German Top 5," New York's Adam Green is huge in Germany.
Pitchfork doesn't think he deserves it. Whatever.
His new album, 'Gemstones,' was released in the UK last week. Check out this e-card to stream some songs and videos. It might not be ground-breaking, but Adam Green fans (me included) will not be disapointed. Even more so, you'll like the cover.
Previously
Stream Adam Green on MTV Germany
Posted in music at 12:29 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
NYC Shows
Here's a bunch of upcoming shows, with tix on sale, that I haven't previously mentioned....
Hot Hot Heat plus Louis XIV @ Bowery Ballroom. March 9th.
Doves @ Bowery Ballroom. March 15th.
Isn't it Romantic featuring Jason Molina (solo) @ Knitting Factory. Feb. 14th.
Movable Hype 2 @ Knitting Factory. Feb. 16th.
Castanets @ Knitting Factory. Feb. 27th
Bella Lea @ Knitting Factory. March 10th.
7Seconds @ Knitting Factory. March 14th.
The Thermals @ Knitting Factory. March 22nd.
Magnolia Electric Co./ Oneida @ Knitting Factory. April 16th.
Rogue Wave @ Mercury Lounge. Feb. 7th.
Kaiser Chiefs @ Mercury Lounge. Feb. 14th.
Walking Concert @ Northsix. Feb. 3rd.
Kaiser Chiefs @ Northsix. Feb. 12th.
Posted in music at 1:54 AM | Comments (2) | TrackBack
January 28, 2005
Top Acts Sign Brief Urging P2P Liability
The 54 recording artists who signed on to the Amicus brief are: Don Henley, Glenn Frey, Joe Walsh & Timothy B. Schmit (The Eagles), Jimmy Buffett, Kenny "Babyface" Edmonds, "Mya" Harrison, Gavin Rossdale, Sheryl Crow, Kix Brooks & Ronnie Dunn (Brooks & Dunn), Bonnie Raitt; Natalie Maines, Martie Maguire & Emily Robison (The Dixie Chicks), Stevie Nicks, Phil Vassar, Patty Loveless, Reba McEntire; Mickey Hart & Bill Kreutzman (of The Grateful Dead), Avril Lavigne, Dido, Denyce Graves, Tom Jones; Jesse Colin Young, Sarah McLachlan, Martina McBride, Sam Moore (of Sam & Dave), Joe Terry & David White (of Danny and the Juniors), Billy Preston, Boz Scaggs, Diana Krall, Elvis Costello, Brian Wilson, Kenny Rogers, Tom Waits; Tyler Stewart, Jim Creeggan, Steven Page, Ed Robertson & Kevin Hearn (Barenaked Ladies), Deryck Whibley, Dave Baksh, Cone McCaslin & Steve Jocz (Sum 41), Brandon Hargest, Brittany Hargest, Chris Fedun & Lesley Moore (Jump 5), Bethany Dillon, Nichole Nordeman, and Michael W. Smith.
Top Acts Sign Brief Urging P2P Liability
Posted in music at 9:24 PM | Comments (3) | TrackBack
January 27, 2005
The Week in Review
So here it is. Here I am. Awake and at my personal computer for longer than 10 minutes. It's still past my new bed time, but oh well.
It all started last Wednesday when I got the call. The call signaled an end to years of working for myself. An end to my month long stint as a professional blogger (yes, I mean for this site). The start of 9-5, fancy clothes, and paid vacation. I was to start Monday and the timing couldn't of been better. Mother nature decided to unleash her powers on our fine city and a cold homeless man decided to turn the Chambers St. subway station into an inferno. This was all more than our photo-banning MTA could handle. For the first time in a while, I actually NEEDED to get places. The fun began.
On Thursday it was off to the uniform shop to drop my life savings on new clothes. These are not just ordinary clothes. These are the kind of clothes that need tailoring. Tailors don't work quick, but I was able to arrange for one outfit to be ready each day starting Sunday.
Long hours trying on outfits mixed with frigid temperatures and a child to take care of had me skipping the Tsunami benefit concert featuring Lou Reed, David Byrne, Moby and Angela McCluskey (who I saw the night before) Thursday night. Did anyone go? How was it?
Friday brought the end of Sea Ray. Saturday the snow came, but I still made it to both Colin Meloy and Jean Grae that night. Sunday I had no choice, but to head to the tailor, and then get lots of sleep. Melatonin helped me accomplish the last goal...I think.
Jean Grae, critically acknowledged as the best female emcee, and one of the best living emcees period, recently lamented the fact that she can't make a decent living in hip-hop.
Monday morning began the commutes from hell. I was late for my first day, which wasn't too bad because they were cool about it. The morning was spent watching videos and leaning about safety. By the afternoon, they had me dive right in. Monday night was more Colin, where I was joined by Jeff and Mike.
Tuesday saw more commuting fun, more work, and a night of Bright Eyes, Coco Rosie and Tilly & the Wall. Unfortunately I got to the show right as Tilly were playing their last song. When Town Hall says a show is going to start at 8:00, they mean it. Bright Eyes was good, but Coco Rosie was surprisingly the highlight of the show. I know you know who Bright Eyes is because he's everywhere you look, like on the cover of Time Out, and the front page of the New York Times.
The New York Times article was a review of the show I was at.
The show was the same day as the release of his two new albums, one of which Pitchfork liked a lot.
NPR broadcast the same concert in DC live today.
Wednesday I was officially feeling the long days and jet lag. Just last week I rarely made it to bed before 4am. I got home from work (after making my daily trip to the tailor) and slept till this morning.
Sleep is as important as food and air
It's Thursday. I actually feel human again, and the job is a-ok. Thanks to all who had kind words to say this week. Sorry to those who haven't received e-mail replies yet. I will catch up.
Sorry I missed the following bands tonight: Other Passengers, Hinkley, and Craig Wedren.
Sorry more that this happened.
More music news coming soon. stay tuned.
Posted in general | music at 10:55 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
Some More Pictures of the Snow
On Sunday, I was forced to venture out to do some last minute shopping for the job I was starting the next day. I took some photos along the way. So beautiful to look at. Such a nightmare to deal with during my first week of a new 9-5 job. (the subway fire didn't help either)
Posted in NYC | pictures at 9:59 PM | Comments (4) | TrackBack
Colin Meloy's 2nd Night @ Fez | Pics
Somehow I made it back to Fez for the 2nd night of Colin Meloy solo, Monday January 24th, 2005 @ 11 pm. Here are a few photos, with much more on this show at Stereogum and Gothamist.
You'll find another picture I took of Colin that night, right here.
And an interview with Colin at The Black Table
According to the Washington Post, 'Colin Meloy is a playful fellow, a wordsmith who seems just as enamored with the sound of syllables colliding as what it means when they do.'
'tricksterpyg' invited Colin to their prom. They point out they did the same to Ben Gibbard. That makes at least two people that have crushes on both of them.
Previously
Colin Meloy Solo @ Fez in a Blizzard | Pics
Posted in music | pictures at 9:40 PM | Comments (6) | TrackBack
Keren Ann North American Tour Dates
Keren Ann has four scheduled NYC dates coming up, including shows at Tonic, Fez, and Joe's Pub (on sale at telecharge).
All Dates...
February/Fevrier
17- New York, NY- Tonic
24- Los Angeles, CA - Hotel Café
25- Los Angeles, CA - Tangier
26- San Francisco, CA - Swedish American Hall
28- Seattle, WA - Tractor Tavern
March/Mars
6- Toronto, ON - Horseshoe
8- Boston, MA - Middle East, Upstairs
9- New York, NY - Fez
10- New York, NY - Joe's Pub
11- Philadelphia, PA - World Café
12- Arlington, VA - Iota
23- New York, NY - Joe's Pub
Previously
Posted in music at 8:25 PM | Comments (10) | TrackBack
January 26, 2005
Normal Blogging to Resume Soon
I just got back from the Bright Eyes, CocoRosie and Tilly & The Wall show at Town Hall in NYC, and now I need to go to bed :(
Here are four pics.
btw, CocoRosie took my breath away.
Posted in music | pictures at 1:00 AM | Comments (4) | TrackBack
January 25, 2005
Quick Update
I started a new job yesterday, so things might be a little slow around here while I adjust.
In the meantime...
Check out Tim Burton's Corpse Bride trailer.
And browse the worst album covers ever.
Posted in music at 8:12 AM | Comments (4) | TrackBack
New Beck Video
I don't need to link you to the new Beck video, Stereogum already did.
Previously
Beck album is not the final version
Posted in music at 8:09 AM | Comments (15) | TrackBack
Fischerspooner & Deitch Projects Present...
"EXCELLENT WORKSHOP"
Salon Series Re Opens
Every Thursday 7pm- 11pm
January 27th- March 31st, 2004
FS Studios, 110 North First Street, Williamsburg, Brooklyn NY
Opening Night featuring NY premiere of new Fischerspooner art and music JANUARY 27TH
(New York, NY) -- Art/pop duo Fischerspooner and gallerists Deitch Projects are pleased to announce the re-opening of Â"Excellent Workshop,Â" a series of evening Salons held at the FS studio space at 110 North First Street in Williamsburg, Brooklyn every Thursday.
The Salons began in July 2004, but have been on hiatus since October while the band put the finishing touches to their long awaited second album Â'OdysseyÂ'.
WARREN FISCHER and CASEY SPOONER will host a special OPENING NIGHT of the Salon series on January 27th. The final event on March 31st will be the official release party for their new album, Â'OdysseyÂ' being released by Capitol/EMI worldwide on April 5.
The first Salon will be the premier of selected new artwork, photography, film and music the band have been working on for the last two years.
This Salon project was created to encourage participation and experimentation in the creative process that surrounds Fischerspooner, and has been a breeding ground of ideas and references for their new bodies of work in music and art. This casual weekly gathering is inspired by the salons of 19th century Paris and are meant to be a place to meet, exchange ideas, enjoy spontaneous events and witness the evolution of ideas in a working studio space.
Each gathering has showcased the work of a range of artists involved in FischerspoonerÂ's creative world and has spanned dance, performance, music, photography, painting and installation. Much of this new work has remained in the space, accumulating as the season progresses and currently includes inspirations for music from their upcoming second album and the aesthetic informing the art direction of the new record
Fischerspooner began as a two-person, low-fi electro-pop performance at a Starbucks coffee shop in downtown NYC. In the years that have followed, Warren Fischer and Casey Spooner have expanded the project into an international pop culture phenomenon, incorporating the various talents of dancers, singers, filmmakers, and fashion, lighting and set-designers.
Previously
Fischerspooner are about to release a new album
Posted in music at 8:03 AM | Comments (2) | TrackBack
January 24, 2005
Jean Grae @ Rothko | Pics
I almost forgot that Jean Grae was playing Rothko in NYC Saturday night (January 22nd, 2005). My original plan was just to go home after the Colin Meloy show, but Jeff (who reminded me of the show) was going, and I already braved the snow by going out at all. So to Jean Grae it was, and I'm happy I did it.
Diverse opened the show.
Read an article by Jean Grae.
Vibe interviewed Jean.
Read a Diverse review by Stylus.
Posted in music | pictures at 8:39 PM | Comments (3) | TrackBack
Bands Who Blog
Technically not all bands...
Know of more? Add 'em to the comments.
Posted in music at 7:44 PM | Comments (9) | TrackBack
January 23, 2005
Blizzard of 05
More pics of the snow here, here, here, here, and here.
Posted in goliath | pictures at 12:01 PM | Comments (2) | TrackBack
Colin Meloy Solo @ Fez in a Blizzard | Pics
Over the River and Through the Hoods, To Colin's show we go.
The horse knows the way to carry the sleigh
Through white and drifted snow.
The Blizzard of '05 didn't stop the first of two Colin Meloy shows from going on at Fez in NYC (January 22, 2005). It did stop a lot of people from actually making it to the show though. One's misfortune is another's luck. Anyone who was brave enough to show up to the sold out show without a ticket, got in without a problem.
Colin played a mix of old and new Decemberists' songs and Morrissey covers from his solo-show-only "Colin Meloy Sings Morrissey" CD. Amy Annelle opened the show with her band, The Places.
Related
a review of the show in Arlington VA
Previously
Decemberists Shakeup | New Lineup
33 1/3 Let it Be (The Replacements) by Colin Meloy
Posted in music | pictures at 3:21 AM | Comments (5) | TrackBack
January 22, 2005
Watch Tegan & Sara perform at Spin
As previously reported, Tegan and Sara gave a private performance at the SPIN magazine offices. Watch it here. (via Aeki Tuesday)
Posted in music at 5:04 PM | Comments (2) | TrackBack
Racist Hot 97 Skit Mocking Tsunami Victims
"For the last week Hot 97 has been running a hideously unfunny and offensive skit named "Tsunami Song," that ridicules the victims of the Tsunami as "ch*nks" whose children will now be sold into child slavery. It's being played on the station's morning show, hosted by Miss Jones."
Racist Hot 97 Skit Mocking Tsunami Victims (thx to TTIKTD for the link)
Posted in music at 4:11 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
Sea Ray's Final Performance @ Mercury Lounge | Pics
Sea Ray played their last show ever at Mercury Lounge in NYC on January 21st, 2005.
Here are photos from that emotional goodbye performance.
Posted in music | pictures at 3:57 AM | Comments (12) | TrackBack
January 21, 2005
New Bjork Video | Vespertine
So the other day I said that I just wasn't feelin Bjork lately. I guess I needed to hear myself say it cause Vespertine has been in constant rotation ever since. Then Stereogum busts out this fantastic new video. Bjork is back.
Posted in music at 9:52 PM | Comments (22) | TrackBack
Stella @ Fez
It really sux that I can't make it to either of the Stella shows at Fez because, Central Village was nice enough to inform me that, tickets just went back on sale.
They're the same Stella who was recently picked up by Comedy Central.
Posted in music at 4:51 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
Fever Frenzy
The Fever plays with The Sights and Diamond Nights at Bowery Ballroom Saturday night. Who's got the best headline?
The Daily News says The Fever is catching on with fans.
NorthJersey.com says The Fever's music can give you chills.
The New York Post says You won't mind this Fever.
And in Blog World...
The Modern Age: We're going to recommend you see this show...
Manic Mess: ...to the sure-to-be-kickass diamond nights/fever show...
Posted in music at 1:18 PM | Comments (2) | TrackBack
The Hold Steady @ Mercury Lounge | Report
So while I was checkin' out Angela McCluskey Wednesday night at Fez, others were over at Mercury Lounge watchin The Hold Steady.
And that includes...The New York Times.
It also includes fut0nrev0luti0n, who was nice enough to let me post the above pic from the show without their knowledge. Let The Good Times Roll has even more info on this event.
Posted in music at 3:02 AM | Comments (2) | TrackBack
Watch and Listen
Watch Feist's new video (real video). It's a Bee Gees cover. I swear. (via those crazy Canadians) Download a Feist tune here.
Watch M. Ward live on KCRW. His next album will include covers of Bach and The Beach Boys. More news here.
Watch teeny-tiny Clem Snide videos. See them with Archer Prewitt at Bowery Ballroom.
Listen to the Dears perform live at KEXP. Their show didn't do it for everyone, but are they assholes?
Listen to a performance Neko Case did at KEXP over two years ago. Dodge will lead you to some MP3s.
Download Black Mountain MP3s here. You know, these guys. More here.
Here's a Sleater Kinney video. Damn, those shows sold out fast.
I purposely waited to post this so I could prove I have Arcade Fire self control. Watch them on TV. The ArcadeFire.Net message boards are a treasure trove of torrent information. Yes, we're talking about the band who debuted on the Billboard 200 this week.
Fluxblog has the Basement Jaxx action. A different version of an M.I.A. song too.
Here's an Animal Collective track, and Pitchfork makes Pitchfork history by actually not giving an Animal Collective related album a good score.
You might of heard that the leaked Beck album is not the final version. Well, I haven't actually even listened to it, so Paul, I can't tell you if it's good.
Missed my earlier post? Listen to Lemon Jelly. Want to know more? The BBC fills you in.
Posted in music at 1:46 AM | Comments (4) | TrackBack
January 20, 2005
Tibet House U.S.'s 15th Annual Benefit Concert
The Black Keys, Tibet House Vice President and composer Philip Glass, former Phish front man Trey Anastasio, singer Nellie McKay, and Marc Anthony Thompson of Chocolate Genius are the first artists to join the line-up of Tibet House U.S.'s 15th Annual Benefit Concert, which will take place at Carnegie Hall in New York City on Wednesday, February 9, 2005 at 7:30 PM. Actress Uma Thurman is the event's Honorary Chair.
The concert assembles some of the biggest names in contemporary music and offers audiences a mix of unprecedented musical collaborations and solo offerings. The Tibet House Benefit Concert commemorates the Monlam Prayer Festival traditionally held in Lhasa at the time of the Tibetan New Year. The festival drew vast numbers of monks, citizens and pilgrims from all over Tibet who gathered together to pray for world peace and prosperity.
Concert-only tickets are $30-$108 and can be purchased by calling CarnegieCharge at (212) 247-7800 or in-person at the Carnegie Hall Box Office and are on sale now.
A fundraising reception with the event's Honorary Chairperson and artists will be held following the performance. Tickets for the reception are $375 ($700 for two) and include prime seats at the concert. To reserve tickets for the reception call Tibet House at (212) 807-0563
Posted in music at 10:09 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
RIP Jarvis
My condolences go out to Kyle at Information Leafblower who just went through the hardest thing a pet owner could ever experience.
Posted in music at 9:52 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
New Evidence In 'Vegan Baby Death'
You remember this case? The one where the parents were prosecuted for killing their baby by not feeding it properly. The case that caused people to stereotype vegans as crazy freaks that kill babies? The case where the supposed vegans fed their child Cod Liver Oil? (vegans don't use fish products) The case that had people confusing child abuse with veganism?
Well it looks like it wasn't child abuse after all.
Posted in veggie at 9:13 PM | Comments (4) | TrackBack
Lemon Jelly
Stream the whole new Lemon Jelly album. Read the Popmatters review.
Watch Lemon Jelly videos.
Posted in music at 2:42 PM | Comments (3) | TrackBack
Fez Closing?
It looks like the NYC club, Fez, may not be long for this world. While at the Angela McCluskey concert last night, someone, who found out from a bartender, told me the club was closing within a few months. On my way out, I asked another employee for confirmation. They said there was a rumor floating around that the place is closing, getting renovated, and reopening as something new. They also said it's probably not true. In fact, they were rather defensive about the whole thing, exclaiming, "We're still here!"
On my way home, I sat and wondered if I had discovered a scoop that I ought to pass along to Tale of Two Cities or Curbed, or if perhaps I was the last one to know what might be common knowledge. Before I could decide, I browsed over to Productshop, only to discover, in what is the strangest coincidence, that his lead story today is none other than the closing of Fez.
Further investigation revealed a a thread on an indiepop message board that further confirms the possible closing.
Regardless, it's still open for now, and I'll see you there Saturday night for the Colin Meloy show.
Posted in music at 4:37 AM | Comments (1) | TrackBack
Angela McCluskey @ Fez, NYC | Pics
CRAIG WEDREN, ANGELA MCCLUSKEY, & CYNDI LAUPER
Last Night's (January 19th, 2005) Angela McCluskey concert at Fez in NYC was not only an extraordinary, intimate performance, it was filled with special surprises that made it even more unforgettable. Joining Angela on stage for a duet was Craig Wedren of Shutter to Think and Baby. For the last song of the two song encore, Angela called Craig back on stage, along with her good friend Cyndi Lauper who was also sitting in the audience. As you can tell by the pictures, they sang a song together using lyrics they had written down ahead of time.
ANGELA MCCLUSKEY, & BAND
Once again, Craig Wedren graces me with his presence on stage. As noted in my Best Shows of 2004 post, Craig seems to be everywhere, whether it be because Baby is on the bill, or he's playing as a member of Bright Eyes. Don't forget to catch him during his residency at Pianos this month.
It's actually not surprising that Craig, who recently played on the same bill as Angela at Mercury Lounge, would appear at an Angela McCluskey show in 2005. She (along with Billy Corgan, Liz Phair, Jeff Buckley, and others) provided vocals on Shudder To Think's 1998 movie soundtrack album, First Love, Last Rites. Angela's album, The Things We Do, was produced by Nathan Larson, another former member of Shutter to Think.
I'm not sure how long Angela and Cyndi Lauper have been "best mates," but musically they've got some connections too. Angela's old band was called Wild Colonials, and Cyndi sang on their song called 'If By Chance.' You can catch Cyndi with Sandra Bernhard, and Nancy Sinatra at another tsunami benefit at Crobar in NYC on January 27th, 2005.
CRAIG WEDREN & ANGELA MCCLUSKEY
As far as I can tell, Angela's scheduled show at Fez next week is cancelled, but you can see her TONIGHT (January 20th, 2005) with David Byrne, Lou Reed, and Moby at the Tsunami Benefit Concert in NYC.
Previously
David Byrne, Tsunami Benefit Reminder
Angela McCluskey | The Things We Do
Craig Wedren Residency @ Pianos
Nancy Sinatra @ Joe's Pub | pics
Posted in music | pictures at 3:30 AM | Comments (6) | TrackBack
The Jesus Vibes cover Joanna Newsom, The Decemberists
So a bunch of kids from Australia got a band together, and covered Joanna Newsom and The Decemberists. Stream and download the questionable cover songs here.
Posted in music at 2:41 AM | Comments (7) | TrackBack
David Byrne, Tsunami Benefit Reminder
Here's a reminder that the Tsunami Benefit at Marquee is tonight. Lou Reed has been officially added to the lineup that already included Moby, Angela McCluskey and DJ Spooky. A little birdie told me to expect David Byrne as well.
Posted in music at 2:27 AM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
Fourth Luna (matinee) show Added @ Bowery Ballroom
Jan. 27th. 2 pm. When will it end? Tickets.
Luna is not the only one who just added a fourth show. Metric is doing the same thing (minus the breakup) in Toronto.
Posted in music at 2:01 AM | Comments (1) | TrackBack
January 19, 2005
Ted Leo, Benzos, James Murphy Tix on Sale
Jeez, what's with today.
Tickets for this show via Melody Nelson. Should sell out fast.
Posted in music at 4:59 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
Portishead, Sleater Kinney, Postal Service, etc...
Sorry about all the posts today. They just keep appearing. I'm more sorry that I'm not getting anything I really need be doing, done.
First and foremost, PORTISHEAD IS COMING OUT WITH A NEW ALBUM! Obviously I'm excited. And as One Louder pointed out, the upcoming Portishead tsunami benefit show is not actually Portishead at all, but just Beth Gibbons solo, which is still good, but I have to take back my letter. It's not like I was going to be at the show anyway, but as Portishead's official site points out, the show can be viewed as a live web cast.
Next topic: Sleater Kinney. In the above referenced One Louder post, they also update us with the latest on Sleater Kinney, including the much anticpated two shows at Mercury Lounge in NYC on March 2nd and 3rd. Well I just read on Daily Refill, that those tickets are now ON SALE.
Jen also points out the new Postal Service video that's worth a look, Jenny Lewis included.
Chromewaves, who also covers the Postal Service video AND Portishead AND Sleater Kinney today, reports that Iron and Wine and Calexico are collaborating.
KarenPlusOne asks us to check out the new video from the Kaiser Chiefs.
And finally, the initial Bonnaroo lineup has been announced... Joanna Newsom, Rilo Kiley, Secret Machines, M Ward, Mars Volta, and Modest Mouse included. More on that at Stereogum and Thighs Wide Shut.
Posted in music at 3:54 PM | Comments (1) | TrackBack
Bloc Party 2005 U.S. Tour Dates
via More Cowbell
04.07.05 New York, NY - Bowery Ballroom
04.08.05 New York, NY - Bowery Ballroom
This is in addition to the date I announced two posts ago.
All Dates...
03.21.05 Pomona, CA - Glass House
03.22.05 Los Angeles, CA - Troubadour
03.23.05 San Francisco, CA - Bottom Of The Hill
03.24.05 San Francisco, CA - Pop Scene
03.26.05 Seattle, WA - Neumos Crystal Ball Reading Room
03.27.05 Vancouver, BC - Richards On Richard
03.30.05 Minneapolis, MN - Venue TBA
03.31.05 Chicago, IL - Metro
04.01.05 Detroit, MI - Magic Stick
04.02.05 Toronto, ONT - Mod Club
04.05.05 Boston, MA - Paradise Rock Club
04.06.05 Philadelphia, PA - First Unitarian Church
04.07.05 New York, NY - Bowery Ballroom
04.08.05 New York, NY - Bowery Ballroom
04.09.05 Washington, DC - Black Cat
Posted in music at 2:55 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
Colin Meloy Live Recording
Three days until Colin Meloy of the Decemberists hits Fez in NYC with his solo show.
"If you don't mind, I think I'll play another one off that, since you all seem to KNOW it so well."
- Colin Meloy reacting to the crowd singing along to a track off of the Decemberists' leaked album, 'Picaresque,' at his recent solo show at Cafe Du Nord in San Francisco.
Download that whole show...
intro
http://s25.yousendit.com/d.aspx?id=0XZ1JIB41PTIV0ACNA5W66BFP2
shiny
http://s25.yousendit.com/d.aspx?id=201VY1C7B666X0UK9JDFJIJN40
my mother was a chinese trapeze artist
http://s25.yousendit.com/d.aspx?id=2JRYEFS9WAVCP0O22X6QHFOVQS
apology song
http://s25.yousendit.com/d.aspx?id=0USJ8J8UW0D951LAIEG8PPHYUF
gymnast, high above the ground
http://s25.yousendit.com/d.aspx?id=2K5NUKGKEO0VI3BYXGNHP1RK6R
sister, i'm a poet
http://s25.yousendit.com/d.aspx?id=21P6TAO5PTYTV3OI94DU9GMEE9
i've changed my plea to guilty
http://s25.yousendit.com/d.aspx?id=23HFVL4RV0DH12V1GVEUO4TWH5
cautionary song
http://s25.yousendit.com/d.aspx?id=2Q4KBXZ4KATTZ3SDJQHAFBC152
bachelor and the bride
http://s26.yousendit.com/d.aspx?id=22XE15K3QTPN5104QJ16RC21JT
eli, the barrow boy
http://s25.yousendit.com/d.aspx?id=19P91FWSE5CVV3H54EMXMVPT29
the bagman's gambit
http://s25.yousendit.com/d.aspx?id=0LBIVUOHSK5E2JHPIRFSY1ZGQ
myla goldberg
http://s25.yousendit.com/d.aspx?id=1ZT4638CAMBBO0FE82GS5TXXFS
bandit queen
http://s25.yousendit.com/d.aspx?id=1HDBUWULA64431F9GAA5F7VUJR
california one/yabb
http://s25.yousendit.com/d.aspx?id=0MZOWHIRSG3BG1XKAUL3V42DJB
encore break
http://s25.yousendit.com/d.aspx?id=2MAB970BO3VAO1MKADBA0TIY5Y
grace cathedral hill
http://s25.yousendit.com/d.aspx?id=3DPWKNUPLJBPY1DB4MR418OB0P
red right ankle
http://s26.yousendit.com/d.aspx?id=0W3EIIZ174VK11K318AZZDRA4N
southern girls
http://s25.yousendit.com/d.aspx?id=2CN2GDPABZBI0158USWIZYM0GJ
Previously
Colin Meloy Sings Morrissey & Other Fun Stuff
Decemberists Shakeup | New Lineup
Colin Meloy on the Picaresque Leak
Posted in music at 1:56 PM | Comments (6) | TrackBack
Bloc Party Playing The Next Motherfucker
The rumor is that Bloc Party are coming back to NYC on February 20th to play the next Motherfucker party. Thanks to Neuman for the tip.
Above photo grabbed from the Cobra Snake.
And in related hot-act-from-the-UK-playing-NYC news, The Kaiser Chiefs are coming back to play Mercury Lounge on Valentines Day. (via Central Village via KarenPlusOne via Melody Nelson)
Previously
Best Shows of 2004 | MP3s Included
Bloc Party Signs to Vice Records
Saw the Dears @ Mercury | Missed Kaiser Chiefs
Posted in music at 12:57 PM | Comments (1) | TrackBack
Great Minds Think Alike
As brought to my attention in my comments...
http://www.catbirdseat.org/catbirdseat/archives/000216.shtml
Posted in music at 11:29 AM | Comments (1) | TrackBack
Raisin' the Roof
Religious Icon, Jesus Christ
Folk Singer, Devendra Banhart
Actor, Vincent Gallo
Serial Killer, Charles Manson
--------------
Vincent Gallo photo taken from MTV's gallery of the recent Johnny Ramone memorial service.
Posted in music at 4:15 AM | Comments (30) | TrackBack
Chin Up Chin Up returning to NYC
Chin Up Chin Up: Feb 10th, Mercury Lounge.
Opening for....Soft. hmmm. Soft may be ruined in our minds forever thanks to their billing as 'Super Secret Headliner' at the Voxtrot show.
Previously
Posted in music at 3:24 AM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
Colin Meloy Sings Morrissey & Other Fun Stuff
'Let it be said here first: Kasabian is indisputably one of the most important albums of 1997.'
(previously: Morningwood Touring w/ The Music, Kasabian & Kasabian Playing Irving Plaza)
'Post rock never sounded so good through a female voice as it does with Controller Controller. the hype machine may jump on this band soon enough.'
Just when you thought no more bloggers could fit in the Dears show at Mercury Lounge this past Saturday, along comes Verbose Coma, Karen Plus One, Productshop, and Melody Nelson.
Speaking of stuffing as many bloggers as possible into a small club, I Rock I Roll posted a review and pics of Movable Hype 1.5, as did SpinachDip. Stay tuned for Movable Hype 2.0.
Articles about Bright Eyes are all the rage. Here's another one in the Village Voice. Listen to a chat with Conor at NPR.
Neko Case has two dates coming up at Bowery Ballroom. I can vouch for her latest live album. It good. Largehearted Boy found this article about her. Chromewaves was at the Toronto show, and so was For the 'records'.
'Dusted brings you profiles of 10 artists to watch in 2005. Today's installment: M.I.A.'
'The best way to help support independent music, is to spread the word. The more folks we get to woxy.com, the more features we can bring you. And unlike corporate radio stations, we really do appreciate every single listener.'
Information Leafblower points us to the exact details of 'Colin Meloy Sings Morrissey.'
Archer Prewitt. Archer Prewitt. Archer Prewitt. Archer Prewitt.
Posted in music at 1:55 AM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
The Stands Are Coming To NYC | All Years Leaving
Just because you're from the UK doesn't mean you're good.
"The Stands have recently joined forces with the World's Fair Label Group, to release "All Years Leaving" in the US. The CD will be released on the ECHO Label on January 25th '05. "
Tour Dates:
January 26th - Mercury Lounge 8:00 PM set
January 27th - Southpaw
January 28th - Mercury Lounge with BOBBY BARE JR, SARAH LEE GUTHRIE & JOHNNY IRION
January 29th - Urban Outfitters instore DJ set by Howie Payne
January 29th - Maxwell's in Hoboken with the Damnwells
The album's been out in the UK for almost a year. Learn more at NME.
And check out their new official United States site.
Read what the BBC had to say when the album was released in the UK.
More reviews here, here, and here.
Posted in music at 1:33 AM | Comments (2) | TrackBack
Bonfire Madigan Residencies
This post is a month too late for NYC residents. Sorry about that. Bonfire Madigan already completed three of her four residency dates at Knitting Factory this month. Since 4 minus 3 equals 1, we've still got one more chance to catch her on January 25th (that is if you're not already going to Bright Eyes at Town Hall, Ted Leo at Rothko, or Buck 65 at Sin-e). Ok, so that's not a very good date either. Luckily she's continuing the residency trend by doing ANOTHER residency in NYC. Next time it's at Pianos and it's Feb 8th, 15th, and 22nd. Watch Pianos' website for more details.
Her long stay in New York is to record her newest music with Hal Willner.
According to her/their official website, ".....Bonfire Madigan is an avant-pop, chamber-rock experiment. A configuration of combustible collaborators orbiting the songs and spit of Madigan Shive. Madigan ignites the Bonfire with a shebeen of soul-art-string-sounds."
Download some Bonfire at Kill Rock Stars.
Get a video at Wolfe Stone.
Jasper has photos of her July performance at Tonic.
An interview at Delusions of Adequacy.
Posted in music at 1:00 AM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
January 18, 2005
More Music Randomness
Above photo of Joe Elliot (frontman of Def Leppard), Kid Rock, and Justin Timberlake at Kid Rock's birthday party two nights ago at CHI in West Hollywood. Happy Birthday Kid!
MP3 blogging took a hit. The Big Ticket has the details on the story of Moistworks, with more at Donewaiting. Mystery and Misery says it how it is. I'd expect some commentary on this over at Coolfer, but apparantly he's on vacation. Those deviant MP3 blogs hosting Public Enemy...
Maybe they should have posted something less controversial, like the upcoming Beck album that has officialy leaked. The blog that posted the whole CD made a good move by removing it. More at aeki tuesday and One Louder.
Causing much less of a commotion is the also-recently-leaked Idlewild album.
It's unfortunate that the Shivaree show at Joe's Pub tonight is sold out. I just started listening to them/her this week after some IM recommendations. I think Chromewaves knows the same people I do.
The Arcade Fire stream from KCRW is now available as MP3s. Bradley's Almanac has the entire thing for download.
Have you seen the new Doves video yet? What 80's song does that intro sound like? more at Chromewaves and the Oh So Quiet Show. And stay tuned for a Doves show to hit NYC. (via One Louder)
Devendra Banhart tells Pitchfork a few of his favorite things.
#4 "CocoRosie and Antony playing a show in a spanish ballroom." How about CocoRosie and Antony in a Bowery Ballroom? Will Devendra be one of the special guests Antony refers to? I hope so.
(previously: Devendra watches Antony @ Joe's Pub)
Watch some Devendra Banhart videos. At the Hop | Little Yellow Spiders
While you're over at XL Recordings, don't miss the M.I.A. video either, and win an M.I.A. iPod.
(previously: M.I.A., Nick Catchdubs, Tale of Two Cities)
Here's one that came to me in a dream. The two tiny sisters, Tegan and Sara, played Bowery Ballroom in NYC on the same day that Apple released their two new tiny products. Steven Jobs runs Apple. Little Steven was at the Bowery show. Last time Tegan and Sara were in town, they played the Appple store. What does this all mean? I don't know.
Here's a review in the Village Voice of the Bowery Show.
the real janelle points us at some artistic niceness.
Every field/hobby/interest-group has things that divide them. In computers its MAC vs PC and Microsoft vs Open Source. For NY sports fans there's the Yankees vs Mets. In the current indie rock scene it's Joanna Newsom lovers vs. haters. Catherine says that Joanna's music is 'the 2004 equivalent of taking a cute boy home only to find that he's, like, a hermaphrodite or something'
Posted in music at 6:45 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
Movable Hype 1.5
Once again, I am in no condition to post after a Gothamist Movable Hype event. Tonight was version 1.5, and I saw two amazingly kick-ass bands. So check them out....
Posted in music at 2:35 AM | Comments (10) | TrackBack
The Eleven Worst Songs of 2004
Posted in music at 2:14 AM | Comments (3) | TrackBack
Petitions
I don't know why. Music fans like to create petitions. Here are a few that caught my attention. Get involved.
The petition to fire Ozzy from Black Sabbath.
The petition to stop Britney. Created by StopBritney.com, as seen on Tale of Two Cities.
The petition to stop Ashlee Simpson. From Ashlee haters, HOPE.
The petition to stop RANA from breaking up. From my very own friend, Fischler.org.
The petition to release Fiona Apple's next album. Courtesy of Free Fiona.
The petition to put a stop to 'crappy nu-metal bands.'
The petition to play more Bon Jovi.
The petition to get New Kids on the Block a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
The petition to bring back the Spice Girls.
Posted in music at 1:13 AM | Comments (1) | TrackBack
January 17, 2005
Arcade Fire Just Played Live on KCRW
The Arcade Fire just played live on Morning Becomes Eclectic (KCRW), and it's already available in it's entirety as a Real Video stream. Highlights include a new song, and a Magnetic Fields cover.
Set List:
1) Wake Up
2) Neighborhood #4 (7 Kettles)
3) Vampires / Forest Fire
4) INTERVIEW
5) Intervention (new song)
6) Born on a Train (Magnetic Fields cover)
7) In the Backseat
Stream the whole show (Real Video)
In the future you can keep track of everyone's favorite over-hyped band, over at Kyle's new ARCADE FIRE FANSITE.
Previously
Posted in music at 3:07 PM | Comments (2) | TrackBack
Music group 50 Foot Wave's bad timing
Rock singer Kristin Hersh (who recently opened for the Pixies here in NYC) had something else entirely in mind when she named her new band 50 Foot Wave.
New album released to critics a week before tsunami hit
Previously
Posted in music at 2:29 PM | Comments (1) | TrackBack
Ted Leo & James Murphy Playing Rothko
This one is sure to cause a riot...
Tue January 25th
www.jenyk.com & www.melodynelson.com Present A Special Benefit Show For Sarah Flynn Of Spinart Records:
Ted Leo 11 PM
Apollo Sunshine 10 PM
Chinese Stars 9 PM
Countess Zatak feat The Gill Scott-Heron 8 PM
Guest DJ James Murphy of DFA
Doors 7:30 PM, $8, Rothko, NYC
Posted in music at 2:42 AM | Comments (3) | TrackBack
January 16, 2005
Dear Portishead
Dear Portishead,
Thank you for recognizing the demand for your music, and getting back together to play a Tsunami benefit show in the UK with Massive Attack.
Please keep it up. Consider this an invitation to play an encore performance in NYC. I promise you that tickets will sell out and lots of money will be raised.
I hope this letter finds you in good spirits.
Sincerely,
-bv
Posted in music at 8:56 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
Saw the Dears @ Mercury | Missed Kaiser Chiefs
photo of The Dears from Stereogum
Last night, Montreal's The Dears played a sold out show at Mercury Lounge in NYC. Benzos, and local favorite, Saints and Lovers, opened the show. File this show under "didn't live up to the hype." The Dears' set started out strong with a few good songs, but quickly faded into long jams that didn't hold the attention of the crowd. By the time they left the stage, the place was half-empty.
Benzos sounds a lot like Radiohead. Saints and Lovers impressed as usual. It's just too bad more people didn't get there in time to catch them.
The blogosphere was out in full force. I didn't bring my camera, but photos and reviews are everywhere.
photo of The Dears from Daily Refill
More in the Monitor left after five songs. ouch.
Daily Refill, who interviewed the Dears for Gothamist just a few days earlier, says she wouldn't believe the hype, unless morrissey worship is hott in '05
The Wicked wasn't so disappointed.
She provides pictures of all three bands:
The Dears
Benzos
Saints and Lovers
Central Village and I pretty much agree exactly.
Stereogum provides more pics.
Aeki Tuesday should have more pics and a review soon.
The Dears left the stage around 1:00. I rushed over to Tribeca Grand to try and catch the Kaiser Chiefs, but got there a second too late to even see one song.
The Modern Age was there, and she promises more info in the near future. oh well.
Posted in music at 7:23 PM | Comments (2) | TrackBack
Music, Music, Music
More in the Monitor review the Tegan and Sara show at Bowery Ballroom via an IM Conversation.
(previously: Clap Your Hands and Say Tegan and Sara)
"You may not yet have heard of transplanted Torontonian Leslie Feist, but chances are you will. As the torchy indie singer is preened for her U.S. debut, she is trying to stay low-key"
"Indie kids, 18-, 19-year-olds, worship her," says Daniel Cutler, co-president of Arts & Crafts Records, an independent Toronto label, which released Let it Die in Canada. Its potential in the much-larger U.S. market is easy to imagine, he said." More in the Toronto Star (via LargeHearted Boy)
(previously: Leslie Feist Update)
Mystery and Misery profiles Daily Refill favorite and Movable Hype veteran, Snowden.
(previously: Movable Hype or How Many Bloggers Does It Take To....)
LCD Soundsystem take the spotlight with news at Pitchfork and an interview with James Murphy at One Louder. Download 'Daft Punk is Playing at My House' here.
(previously: DFA | Death From Above)
Keren Ann gets a shout out in Newsweek. The New York Times reviewed the show she took part in at Knitting Factory.
(previously: Keren Ann @ Southpaw | Pics)
'Friends Casey Spooner (Fischerspooner) and Jake Shears (Scissor Sisters) were interviewed early December by hosts Alanna Heiss and Klaus Biesenbach on internet-only WPS1 Art Radio.' Listen here. Fischerspooner are about to release a new album. Download some remixes from their first single.
(previously: Scissor Sisters "Filthy, Gorgeous" Video)
If I started this blog 2-12 years ago, you probably would of received constant updates on Bjork. Lately I'm burnt out on her. I hardly listened to Medulla at all. That doesn't mean I still won't go see her play 2-3 nights in a row every time she comes around.
Björk to Release Double Album for Charity, New Single.
(previously: Bjork nominated for a Grammy)
Speaking of Bjork, Travis Sullivan's Bjorkestra is back at Knitting Factory NYC on January 27th.
(previously: Bjorkestra at Fez)
RJD2 and Aesop Rock have been added to the Plug Awards lineup at Webster Hall in NYC. Ted Leo and Dillinger Escape Plan were previously announced.
(Previously: Plug Independent Music Awards)
Kings of Leon, who have the #24 single in the UK right now, are playing Webster Hall in NYC on Feb. 23rd.
Download more Prince than you know what to do with. (via Totally Fuzzy)
Posted in music at 4:11 PM | Comments (2) | TrackBack
Movable Hype 1.5 Reminder
Posted in music at 4:05 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
Keoki Tonight (Sunday) at QUO | Free Admission
LOUNGEWHORE SESSIONS SUNDAYS @ QUO (NYC)
Sunday January 16th >>
Grand Opening Party
music by Keoki
open bar 1am- 2am
complimentary admission on the Bradley Rose guest list until 1am
e-mail bradleyrose001@yahoo.com and mention BrooklynVegan to be placed on comp list.
Posted in music at 4:02 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
Crazy Legs Conti
Gothamist interviewed, competitive eater, Crazy Legs Conti. That brought back memories of the San Genero Festival Cannoli Eating Contest, in which he was a contestant.
Posted in NYC at 3:28 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
January 15, 2005
Fiery Furnaces Tour Dates
Sat 04/09/05 New York, NY Bowery Ballroom
Sun 04/10/05 Brooklyn, NY North Six
Posted in music at 7:55 PM | Comments (2) | TrackBack
Johnny Ramone
Linda Ramone, the widow of the late punk guitarist Johnny Ramone, poses next to a statue in his likeness, after unveiling it during a ceremony at Hollywood Forever Cemetery in Los Angeles, California, January 14, 2005. Lisa Marie Presley , Eddie Vedder , Rob Zombie, Nicolas Cage and Pete Yorn were among the notable friends in attendance. Johnny Ramone, co-founder and guitarist of seminal 70's punk rock band The Ramones, died on September 15, 2004 at his home in Los Angeles. REUTERS/Jim Ruymen
Johnny Ramone Gets Statue at L.A. Cemetery
Posted in music at 6:45 PM | Comments (7) | TrackBack
January 14, 2005
100 Acts of Support: The Concerts for Banda Aceh
On January 20, Virgin Megastores will present 100 live bands and artist performances in a single day at the “100 Acts of Support: The Concerts for Tsunami Relief” charity event.
...sexy-cool New York-based band, The Brazilian Girls (who are really three guys and a “girl”) were one of the first acts to confirm a performance at the Union Square Megastore. In addition to Brazilian Girls, Jason Spiewak, Sister Hazel and Ike Reilly will perform at Union Square, while Dillinger Escape Plan will be featured at Times Square in New York. In Orlando, look for The Adorables, THORO and Spam All-Stars to play. In Miami, Afro-dance group
and hip hop act Mr. Haka will give performances and in Dallas (Mockingbird Station), the young country singing sensation, Brittany Wells, will appear.
100 Acts of Support: The Concerts for Banda Aceh
Posted in music at 7:42 PM | Comments (1) | TrackBack
Tsunami Aid on NBC
8/7PM SATURDAY, JANUARY 15th
LIVE & COMMERCIAL FREE
Scheduled performances by:
Roger Waters
Madonna
Sheryl Crow
Annie Lennox
Stevie Wonder
Maroon 5
Norah Jones
Sarah McLachlan
Mary J. Blige
Lenny Kravitz
John Mayer
Eric Clapton
Kenny Chesney
Gloria Estefan
Elton John
Nelly
Tsunami Aid: A Concert of Hope
Posted in music at 6:04 PM | Comments (1) | TrackBack
M.I.A., Nick Catchdubs, Tale of Two Cities
When Pitchfork released their review of M.I.A./Diplo, Piracy Funds Terrorism album last year, I added the CD to the to-do list in the back of my mind. When Tale of Two Cities released their list of favorites for 2004, I made a small mental note to do my research. Then when Tale of Two Cities alerted us to the M.I.A. show at Knitting Factory in NYC on Feb. 3rd, I realized I've got to catch up quick.
Rather than let my procrastination cause you to miss out, here's your warning. These tickets will probably sell out.
Nick Catchdubs, who's also playing the show, provides more M.I.A. info.
Rather than link you directly to the spot where you can download the ENTIRE ALBUM, I'll link you to someone who will link you to the ENTIRE ALBUM.
More buzz at Stylus, The Village Voice, Sonic Laundry, One Louder, Central Village, and Chicagomuzik
Posted in music at 4:27 AM | Comments (13) | TrackBack
NPR: 2005 Music Preview
Bob Boilen speaks with All Things Considered music reviewers Tom Moon, Meredith Ochs and Mikel Jollett about the most anticipated releases for 2005. Hear sneak previews from Marianne Faithful, Bright Eyes, M. Ward, Son Volt and more.
Everyone seems to be talking about Bright Eyes, like Rolling Stone, and MSNBC.
Previously
Norfolk & Western (featuring an EX-Decemberist) touring with M Ward
Third NYC Bright Eyes Show Added
Posted in music at 4:13 AM | Comments (1) | TrackBack
January 13, 2005
Clap Your Hands and Say Tegan and Sara
Last night was one of those nights where I stayed in and did nothing, even though I was itching to hit at least one of two good shows happening in Manhattan.
The first was Tegan and Sara with Kimya Dawson at Bowery Ballroom. Kimya on the bill made it that much more worth checking out. Ends up it sold out, I didn't have a ticket, and my potential also-ticketless companion bailed. Aeki Tuesday was there, NuWanda was too.
Tegan & Sara out of the picture meant I could head over to Pianos to catch the show that I had so many reasons to want to see. First there was the Castanets, who by the way were interviewed by Pitchfork today. Then there was Piano's latest resident, Clap Your Hands and Say Yeah, that everyone's been talking about. And just to make the show that much more appealing, in what was a minor coincedence, I met the singer to the opening band, Pile of Face at LIT over the weekend when he handed me a flyer for this very show. Oh well. I Rock I Roll (who inspired this post title) reports it was quite the show with further review at Let the Good Times Roll (no mention of Castanets though).
Not even an option is what I didn't know. Everyone with more connections than me was over at the SPIN offices checking out a private performance by Tegan and Sara earlier in the evening.
Previously
Little Steven hearts Tegan and Sara
Tegan and Sara played the Apple Store
Posted in music at 5:36 PM | Comments (14) | TrackBack
Trail of Dead Tickets
You can now get tickets for the private Trail of Dead show at Rothko on 1/21.
Oh My Rockness Provides the exact details:
To get a free pass to the show, just stop by any of the record stores mentioned below and pre-order the new ...And You Will Know Us By The Trail of Dead record "Worlds Apart." The pass will get you into the show at Rothko (116 Suffolk St.) on Friday, January 21st at 8:30 PM. You want the CD anyway... might as well get a free show out of it!
Note: Each pre-order is good for one pass to the show. This is a 21+ event. Limited space available. Eligible pre-sales begin on 1/13/05 at these locations:
Virgin Megastore
Union Square Location (@ 14th and Broadway)
52 East 14th Street
New York, NY 10003
Vintage Vinyl
51 Lafayette Rd.
Fords, NJ
Looney Tunes
31 Brookvale Ave.
West Babylon, NY
Posted in music at 2:27 PM | Comments (18) | TrackBack
More Music Randomness
Andy Bell of Erasure to duet with Jake Shears of Scissor Sisters. The new Scissor Sisters DVD only costs $8.99 at Amazon.
The Kaiser Chiefs are playing a free show at Tribeca Grand in NYC on January 15th. (answer to commenter: I don't know if they card)
'Walking with a Ghost' by Tegan and Sara voted best album of 2004 by Little Steven's Underground Garage. Tegan and Sara played a sold out show at Bowery Ballroom in NYC last night. Little Steven recently performed with Nancy Sinatra at Joe's Pub.
Album release of the week is the new Fiery Furnaces 10 song EP. Soviet Panda weighs in, and naturally, so does Pitchfork.
One of the highlights of last week was the Keren Ann show at Southpaw. Aeki Tuesday provides more pics, and so does Melody Nelson.
Some people thought I sounded bitter, angsty, (mean even?) with my multiple links to Coolfer yesterday. Hopefully you realized it was all in fun. 'Over-blogged bands' may win the most referenced post of 2005. Add Chromewaves, One Louder, and The Rub to the list of trackbacks.
PopMatters writes about Capitolizing on the Beatles. Junkmedia says that Papercuts sound like the Beatles.
Largehearted Boy links you to everything you ever wanted to know about the recent Apple/iPod hoopla. Gizmodo hosts an image that will make you laugh.
According to the Denver news, the hottest thing in German music right now is a 4-year-old girl's made-up song about a crocodile.
Posted in music at 4:38 AM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
Mommy & Daddy w/ DFA 1979 & Man Man
The Death From Above 1979 show at Mercury Lounge in NYC on January 27th looks like a not-to-be-missed-lineup of some of the hottest and heaviest bands playing right now.
THE PLAYERS
Death From Above 1979 - by now you've probably heard of, or even seen these guys. They've got a highly acclaimed album, are signed to the fashionable Vice records (where you can listen to the entire album & a video), and caused some controversy with their choice of names.
Man Man - After playing this show as opener for DFA1979, they're back a few days later opening for Arcade Fire at two of the most in-demand tickets in NYC right now. Pitchfork likes them, they're signed to Ace Fu records, and they most recently opened for Out Hud at Mercury Lounge. Listen to MP3s.
Mommy & Daddy - not posted on Mercury Lounge's site yet, but the recently buzzed, Mommy & Daddy will also be playing at this show. More about this band at The Rub and ProductShop. Interview here. Listen at Myspace.
Read Yellow - This band just got finished touring with TV on the Radio & Mooney Suzuki in Europe, and according to the PopMatters review of their last show at Mercury Lounge by Jinners, they're good. Listen at Myspace
Posted in music at 3:31 AM | Comments (2) | TrackBack
Stream Golden Apples of the Sun
Stream the entire Devendra Banhart Curated CD featuring Joanna Newsom, Antony, Vetiver, CocoRosie and more.
Order your own copy (now in it's second limited pressing)
Posted in music at 3:14 AM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
Decemberists Shakeup | New Lineup
Hi everyone.
We meant to announce this soon, though I realize that the folks at KRS kind of let the proverbial cat out of the bag.
We’re very sad to announce that Rachel Blumberg has decided, after much deliberation, to leave the group. We’re going to to miss her tons, but we all collectively feel it’s for the best.
Since joining the group, Rachel has always made it clear that Norfolk and Western, the band she shares with her sweetheart, Adam Selzer, has been her priority. Unfortunately, our increasingly hectic schedule has never really made this a possibility. Her decision to leave was a very difficult one to make, but we all support her wholeheartedly.
In happier news, we’ve taken the opportunity to shake up the ranks a bit and are pleased to welcome two new members to the Decemberist family, John Moen and Petra Haden. John’s a bit of a cornerstone of the Portland rock community and is a member of Steve Malkmus’ Jicks as well as his own band the Maroons; Petra was a founding member of That Dog and has played with tons of folks including the Rentals, Beck, and Cibo Matto. They’re both incredibly sweet people and we’re really pleased to have them on board.
So anyway, just wanted to write a little note to let you all know what was happening. Norfolk will be heading on the road this spring with M. Ward as both his opening and backing band, a show which everyone should go see.
Best,
Colin.
Related Links
Tickets for M Ward @ Knitting Factory, NYC
New Bill Frisell & Petra Haden CD set for release January 11th, 2005
Thanks to More Cowbell for the heads up.
Previously
Colin Meloy (Decemberists) cover Morrissey
Colin Meloy on the Picaresque Leak
Posted in music at 2:28 AM | Comments (12) | TrackBack
Suicide Girls @ Lucky 13 Saturday Night
SUICIDE GIRLS NEW YORK PARTY
Saturday - 1/15 @ 10 PM
The SGNY crew is in the house for this special over-the-top party featuring a boatload of SGNY girls, most of whom will be shakin' their booties on the corner stage while DJ Minimalism and other special guest DJs spin metal, punk and alternative; plus enjoy $3 well drinks all night long!! No cover!
Lucky 13 Saloon is located at 273 13th Street @ 5th Avenue in Punk Slope, Brooklyn.
Posted in music at 1:49 AM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
January 12, 2005
Be in the new Moby Video
MOBY is inviting fans in NEW YORK to take part in the video shoot for his new single ‘LIFT ME UP’.
The dance star is seeking anyone aged between 18 and 25 to come down for the shoot, which is expected to last about six hours, on Thursday (January 13), according to his official website.
To take part email mobyvideo@hotmail.com.
Posted in music at 6:36 PM | Comments (9) | TrackBack
A Few More Show Notes
Tickets are on sale for the Plug Independent Music Awards featuring Dillinger Escape Plan & Ted Leo @ Webster Hall on Feb. 9th.
The Black Crowes are reuniting for five shows @ Hammerstein Ballroom in NYC.
Date: Support:
03/22: John Butler Trio
03/23: The Bees
03/25: The Soundtrack Of Our Lives
03/26: North Mississippi Allstars
03/27: Ben Kweller
The Decemberists announced some tour dates. Nothing in NY yet, though you still have the chance to catch Colin solo twice this month at Fez.
Other shows coming up at Webster Hall include New Found Glory on March 26th & Reverend Horton Heat on May 11th.
Mudvayne is playing CBGB. Tix go on sale Friday at noon.
Posted in music at 2:12 PM | Comments (1) | TrackBack
Final Luna Show Tickets on Sale
Luna's last show ever (so they say) at Bowery Ballroom in NYC, Monday, February 28 (8:00 PM doors). Tickets.
Previously
Everyone's Breaking Up and Getting Back Together
Posted in music at 1:00 PM | Comments (2) | TrackBack
Angela McCluskey | The Things We Do
Launch an Angela McCluskey player here for background music to this post.
"Scottish singer-songwriter Angela McCluskey has a cult following. But she's probably most widely known through a car promotion; her voice is the one you hear on Telepopmusik's song "Breathe," an ad for Mitsubishi." (NPR)
"The former lead singer of the Wild Colonials — who also lent her vocals to "Breathe," the pop hit from Télépopmusik and a Mitsubishi commercial — returns with an album that brings to mind Macy Gray and Catatonia's Cerys Matthews. Beginning with a soulful and midtempo groove on "It's Been Done," the singer is quite at home delivering a highbrow pop tune with traces of reggae." (allmusic)
"I could cite gushers like this: “The striking vocals of Angela McCluskey will make you remember the first time you heard Miles blow his horn or Billie sing the blues.” (Hits Magazine) That’s not inaccurate. People bandy phrases like this around, but let it be known that Angela McCluskey is no less than the real deal." (angel records)
More audio at her official site and in the jukebox at Giant Step's site.
Listen to an interview at NPR.
New Yorkers can catch Angela three times this month:
January 19th 9:30 pm, Fez Under Time Cafe (tickets)
January 20th, Artists for Tsunami Relief
January 26th 9:30 pm, Fez Under Time Cafe (tickets currently not online)
Look out for more Telepopmusik with Angela in the future.
Many thought she put out one of the best albums in 2004.
Get The Things We Do at Amazon. Enjoy.
Posted in music at 3:39 AM | Comments (7) | TrackBack
Music Stuff and Stuff
My condolences go out to the Pitchfork haters 'cause Pitchfork is back from vacation. No redesign yet, as their having technical difficulties. Kicked off the year with a positive review of Snow Patrol's recently reissued second album.
Soviet Panda has returned to the blogosphere.
I had so many ideas on how to respond to this next one. Like...
"Coolfer obviously didn't hear that you shouldn't be blogging about Death Cab, Morrissey, Ashlee, U2, Joanna, The Killers, Danger Mouse, Franz Ferdinand, Ted Leo and The Arcade Fire."
or
"Isn't it ironic that Coolfer adds another Arcade Fire post to the blogosphere? It's like rain on your wedding day."
or
"Coolfer's over-blogged band post sets off a string of blog posts on over-blogged bands."
or
"I told you Arcade Fire is a bad word."
or even
"The music blogger hype machine backlash continued today with a post from music blogger Coolfer on over-blogged bands. This comes on the heels of another music blogger bashing post by prominent sometimes music blogger Whatevs just last week. We'll update you with coverage on this story as it comes in."
The NY Times reviewed the Antony & The Johnsons show at Joe's Pub, which gained him at least one new prospective fan.
Man Man are the other opener for Arcade Fire at both NYC shows. They're also playing Mercury Lounge (with Death From Above 1979) and Northsix and a whole lot of other places. So says Pitchfork.
Teaching the Indie Kids to Dance (TTIKTD) posted Chad Van Gaalen MP3s. Don't miss them. And get more in my own Chad post.
Speaking of TTIKTD, I recently figured out that he was the other person at the Magneta Lane show.
Stereogum reveals Henry Rollins' Ebay ID.
Catchdubs points out this must-see video of The Fiery Furnaces performing "Mouse House, Moose Hoose."
PopMatters interviewed Kwamé
Central Village updates us on the NYC show situation. Highlights include Buck 65 back in town, a secret Trail of Dead show, and "What have you done for me lately" Interpol with Blonde Redhead at Radio City.
Posted in music at 12:15 AM | Comments (5) | TrackBack
Luna Lounge Update
This from the comments of my post about Luna Lounge Closing....
We are not planning on having a last night blow out party as we could never hold the thousands of folks who would want to get in. It would be no fun to be packed into the club.
Rather, we are asking people to come in alot over the next several weeks and support your favorite bands who will be performing THEIR LAST SHOWS at Luna Lounge...
Please go to http://www.LunaLounge.com and sign our email list so we can let you know to where we will eventually relocate.
i do promise to make the new Luna Lounge even better than the old one although it most certainly will not be on Ludlow street...
Best wishes,
Rob Sacher
Luna Lounge
Posted in music at 12:10 AM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
January 11, 2005
Morningwood Touring w/ The Music, Kasabian
Starting on February 17th at Irving Plaza (tickets), in their hometown of NYC, Morningwood begin a U.S. tour with UK bands, The Music & Kasabian. Like The Bravery, Scissor Sisters, The Strokes, and many others before them... Morningwood are sure to gain greater success overseas before they do in their own city & country.
In fact, their U.S. tour is the second half of a tour that starts with twelve UK dates. They'll end the tour in Texas in March, which works out perfectly with the appearances they'll be making at SXSW. (more on who will be appearing at SXSW)
Related
Cult band Kasabian surge forward
The Music & Kasabian Join Forces
Listen to the New Music Album in Full
Watch and Listen to Morningwood
All tour dates, and related posts, below the fold...
JANUARY/FEBRUARY/MARCH 2005 TOUR SCHEDULE
UK Tour:
Date City Venue
Wed 01/26/05 Stoke, UK Sugarmill
Thu 01/27/05 London, UK Metro
Fri 01/28/05 Peterbrough, UK Met Lounge
Thu 02/03/05 London, UK Metro
Fri 02/04/05 Tunbridge Wells, UK Forum
Sat 02/05/05 Leicester, UK Charlotte (w/ The
Paddingtons)
Sun 02/06/05 Brighton, UK Pressure Point (w/ The
Paddingtons)
Tue 02/08/05 Bristol, UK Fleece & Firkin (w/
The Paddingtons)
Wed 02/09/05 Cardiff, UK Barfly (w/ The
Paddingtons)
Thu 02/10/05 London, UK Borderline (w/ The
Paddingtons)
Fri 02/11/05 Bournemouth, UK Villa (w/ The Paddingtons)
Sat 02/12/05 Oxford, UK Zodiac (w/ The
Paddingtons)
US TOUR w/ THE MUSIC & KASABIAN
Thu 02/17/05 NEW YORK, NY IRVING PLAZA
Fri 02/18/05 Washington, DC 9:30 Club
Sat 02/19/05 Philadelphia, PA Theatre Of Living
Arts
Tue 02/22/05 Providence, RI The Call
Wed 02/23/05 Boston, MA Paradise Rock Club
Thu 02/24/05 Montreal, QC TBA
Sat 02/26/05 London, ON Centennial Hall
Sun 02/27/05 Detroit, MI St. Andrews Hall
Mon 02/28/05 Covington, KY Jillian's Entertainment
Center
Wed 03/02/05 Chicago, IL Metro / Smart Bar
Thu 03/03/05 Saint Louis, MO The Pageant
Mon 03/07/05 Seattle, WA Neumo's
Tue 03/08/05 Vancouver, BC Commodore Ballroom
Wed 03/09/05 Portland, OR Crystal Ballroom
Fri 03/11/05 San Francisco, CA Slim's
Sat 03/12/05 Los Angeles, CA Music Box At The Fonda
Sun 03/13/05 San Diego, CA Canes
Tue 03/15/05 Tempe, AZ Marquee Theatre
Thu 03/17/05 Dallas, TX Gypsy Tea Room
Sat 03/19/05 Houston, TX Meridian
Previously
Franz Ferdinand Leads Brit Award Nominees
Posted in music at 5:19 PM | Comments (1) | TrackBack
Joanna Newsom Concert Video
Someone posted an entire streaming Joanna Newsom concert from Birmingham, November 2004. (via Free Williamsburg)
You can also watch the Sprout and the Bean video.
Above image of Joanna in rainbow shorts, with The Pleased, courtesy of a Joanna Newsom fan site.
Previously
Joanna Newsom covers Melanie MP3 | Drag City Christmas Pics
Posted in music at 1:41 PM | Comments (1) | TrackBack
America's Sexiest Plumber
So this is what goes on when The Bowery Ballroom is having a "private party."
'In addition to winning the title of America's sexiest plumber, Lori will receive an all expenses paid trip for two to Super Bowl XXXIX in Jacksonville, Fla., on February 6, 2005.'
Posted in general | music at 2:54 AM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
Upcoming Castanets shows
"The core of the Castanets is the lyrical and musical talent of Raymond Raposa. With the help of some of San Diego’s finest, including members of Tristeza, Pinback, Rocket from the Crypt, and Asthmatic Kitty's own Liz Janes, Castanets create music that is epic and inspiring."
If you missed them on January 5th, you have a few more chances to see them soon.
Jan 12th - NY, NY @ Pianos (with The Five OClock Heroes)
Jan 13th - Brooklyn, NY @ Sound Fix (In-Store) 9PM
110 Bedford Ave., corner N. 11th St. 718.388.8090
Feb - March - East Coast Tour with Lazarus - More details to be announced later.
Download Three Days, Four Nights (mp3) (from 'Cathedral')
Posted in music at 2:31 AM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
Craig Wedren Residency @ Pianos
Craig Wedren of Baby, Shudder to Think, (and even Bright Eyes) has a residency at Pianos, in NYC, the last three Thursdays in January (1/13, 1/20, & 1/27).
The shows will feature a small band performing solo material new & old, movie music (Craig scored a bunch of movies), and some Shudder To Think stuff.
They go on at 7:30 sharp.
Craig appeared at more than a few of my favorite shows in 2004.
Gothamist interviewed him in August.
Posted in music at 1:22 AM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
Everyone's Breaking Up and Getting Back Together
A collection of break ups, as reported all over the place...
Who will cut their hair now they're gone? - Unicorns split
Libertines Break-up Due To Tumour, Love-Loss
Luna will play our final shows at the Bowery Ballroom
(not to be confused with the end of the other Luna)
Its a Sad Day in Music | RIP Sea Ray
Guided By Voices—Farewell Show
And those getting back together...
Still Talking About Slint reforming
Motley Crue inks more North American dates
Carrabba, Further Seems Forever Reuniting For Spring Festival
CLAPTON AGREED TO CREAM REUNION OVER AGE CONCERNS
NO DRINK AND DRUGS POLICY SAVES PIXIES COMEBACK
Posted in music at 12:40 AM | Comments (2) | TrackBack
Green Day Videos
Posted in music at 12:35 AM | Comments (76) | TrackBack
Tsunami Bomb on the Tsunami
Remember when Anthrax didn't change their name?
Well it doesn't look like Tsunami Bomb will either. They did have this to say though...
"On a final note for 2004, I’m sure everyone knows all about the tragedies brought on by a tsunami in Asia. I honestly had no idea that a tsunami could be that destructive, with the death tolls going up every day. Our hearts go out to the people who are suffering and have lost their families and friends. It seems like a really bad way to end the year, but hopefully 2005 will start off right. If you decide to continue wearing your Tsunami Bomb t-shirts through all this, please let people know that we’re a band that’s been around for a few years. It’s a good thing we aren’t called “Tsunami Avalanche Hurricane Earthquake Tornado Bomb”! "
Attend a benefit concert in NYC, or in San Francisco, or in Seattle, or in Toronto, or in the UK, or in NJ even.
Check out Music For Relief
And has Tsunami relief "turned into a a trendy dick-measuring contest?"
Posted in music at 12:15 AM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
January 10, 2005
Franz Ferdinand Leads Brit Award Nominees
Scottish rock act Franz Ferdinand leads the field with five nominations for the Brit Awards, which will celebrate their 25th anniversary this year. Muse was close behind with four nominations, while American acts Maroon 5 and Scissor Sisters garnered three each.
Other nominees include The Streets, Morrissey, PJ Harvey, Kasabian, Snow Patrol, Keane, The Zutons, Dizzee Rascal, The Libertines, Joy Division, and U2.
Franz Ferdinand Leads Brit Award Nominees
Posted in music at 2:48 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
Antony & The Johnsons @ Joe's Pub, NYC | Pics
Truly an angel from heaven, Antony performed with his band, The Johnsons, at Joe's Pub in NYC on January 9th, 2005. I must be blessed. Why else would I be so lucky as to witness two such heavenly creatures in one weekend. Friday - Keren Ann, Sunday - Antony and The Johnsons.
Enjoy these photos of what was one of the most breathtaking, emotional performaces I've ever seen. Joe's Pub was the perfect venue for Antony - much better than Bowery Ballroom where I saw him last, and will see him next.
Among those in attendance was Devendra Banhart, who makes a guest appearance on Antony's upcoming album. Devendra has been quoted as saying "Antony is my favorite living singer, hands down."
I'm not sure if Rufus Wainwright was there, although Antony did mention him in one of the only stories he told on stage. (I did see their common friend, Michael Cavadias, though). Antony made an appearance on Wainwright's last album, and Rufus does the same on Antony's next one. The 'next one' I'm talking about is called I am a Bird Now, and comes out on February 1st.
Also spotted: Nicola Rainbird Bowery, in town from London. She spent the night before at a party in honor of her late husband, Leigh Bowery, at Chelsea's Perry Rubenstein Gallery.
Related
I Am Very Happy, So Please Hit Me: Antony and the Johnsons
Previously
Best Shows of 2004 | MP3s Included
Posted in music | pictures at 1:55 AM | Comments (57) | TrackBack
January 9, 2005
Off to Antony
I'm about to leave for the Antony show at Joe's Pub.
Before I left, I thought I'd leave you with this interview with Antony in the current issue of the Village Voice.
Antony's upcoming tour dates here.
Previously
Posted in music at 7:53 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
Streaming, Download, Listen .... Continued AGAIN
In the post that I posted 5 seconds ago, I referenced the U2 Brooklyn Bridge concert, and the new official video based on the trip through Manhattan leading up to it. And as I was posting it, I got an email alerting to me a very unofficial video of the entire show in Brooklyn.
Posted in music at 7:48 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
Streaming, Download, Listen .... Continued
Daily Refill posted links to two videos of Wilco at Tinkle. The videos were recorded by my compatriate Fischler.org, who reviewed that show and more. (my own pics here and here)
Stereogum also posted a link to the new U2 Video that features footage from their recent trip to NYC.
Previously
Posted in music at 7:41 PM | Comments (1) | TrackBack
LIGHTS OUT AT LUNA
Condo cash cows are displacing comics on the Lower East Side.
Generation X clubgoers are not laughing over plans to bulldoze the Luna Lounge — a beloved comedy and music cabaret on the Lower East Side — for a luxury apartment building.
LIGHTS OUT AT LUNA @ the NY Post
Posted in music at 4:31 PM | Comments (3) | TrackBack
Streaming, Download, Listen
Arjan has clips from the new Scissor Sisters DVD that comes out on January 11th.
Stereogum provided a link to streams of songs from Adam Green's upcoming album. Some of the tracks are just clips. Watch the Emily video while you're there. It's in German because he's way bigger there than he is here where he lives.
The Donnas performed for NPR. Listen here.
Listen to KEXP's Best of 2004 Countdown.
Gratitude's first video is available at Launch. (yahoo ID/registration required)
Posted in music at 4:16 PM | Comments (1) | TrackBack
SXSE Tsunami benefit Sunday
On Sunday January 9, 2005, local New York City artists, bartenders, bands, djs and numerous others are throwing an all day benefit to raise funds for victims. We feel that after 9/11, there was such an outpouring of compassion for New York City, we owe it to the world to pass that consideration on.
We are calling the benefit SXSE; South by Southeast (as in SE Asia). It will be held in a 2500 sq ft loft space in Long Island City and thus far, high profile local acts such as Matthew Caws (Nada Surf), Vic Thrill, and The Fresh Kills have confirmed along with a slew of DJ acts with large followings.
Plus: Slot Car Racing + Gambling, Prizes, a Kissing Booth, and much much more. Numerous raffle prizes have been graciously donated by The Knitting Factory, Bust Magazine, March Records, Sweet Action Magazine, Le Grand Magistery Records, Mark Cosmetics, Vessel Gallery, Rapture NYC, Moist and Tasty, Ringlet Salon, Subtexture, and many others.
All proceeds will go to AmeriCares - a charity which we researched and discovered 100% of their donations are going to Asia. This is the worst natural disaster of our life time. We hope you will work with us to do what we can to help.
Confirmed Acts
Matthew Caws ( http://www.nadasurf.com )
Julia Marvel ( http://www.myspace.com/juliamarvel )
Vic Thrill ( http://www.myspace.com/victhrill )
The Fresh Kills ( http://www.myspace.com/freshkills )
The Shop Fronts
Bacardi & Cola
Vag on the Turntables
DJ Drilla
Miss Lola Belle
Autovac
SXSE - Tsunami Relief Benefit
Sunday, January 9, 2005 @ Grey Studios
$20 gets you in with all the free beer you can drink (we can even give you a receipt!). Cheep ($3) cash bar, too.
Doors at 3pm, party till way after
40-17 22nd St 4th Floor
B/w 40 & 41 Ave
Long Island City, New York
Take the F train to 21st St. - Queensbridge
when you get off the F train. walk to 22nd street, make a left, (away
from manhattan) and walk to 40-17 (on that block)
The N or 7 (yay, 7 train!) to Queensboro Plaza or the E / V / R / G to scenic Queens Plaza.
Other trains. walk towards manhattan until you reach 22nd street, make a right. walk to 40-17 (between 40th and 41st ave)
http://www.subtexture.com/SXSE/SXSE_flyer.jpg
"COME HAVE A GREAT TIME WHILE GIVING A FUCK"
From the AmeriCares website:
AmeriCares has mobilized emergency response teams and airlifts into
Sri Lanka and India, with preparation underway for Indonesia. More
than 155,000 people have died since the devastating earthquake and
tsunamis hit these countries and others on Dec. 26th, 2004. Our aid is focusing on providing essential medicines, medical supplies, personal care items and vital water purification treatments. Your donation is essential and 100% of it will be applied to relief efforts in this crisis.
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January 8, 2005
Wilco & Bright Eyes on PBS
Austin City Limits Tonight
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Artists for Tsunami Relief | NYC Benefit Concert
at Marquee (289 10th Avenue @ 27th Street)
Thursday, January 20 7 - 11 p.m.
100% of all monies raised goes to the cause.
Presented by SYNDICATE in conjunction with Tanya Selvaratnam
Appearances by (list in formation):
Angela McCluskey
Metro Area (Morgan Geist + Darshan Jesrani)
Moby
Vernon Reid
DJ Rekha
Anna Deavere Smith
DJ Spooky
Colson Whitehead
More Information (via The Wicked)
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Keren Ann @ Southpaw | Pics
Keren Ann played Southpaw in Brooklyn, NY on January 7th, 2004. It was the first, but it won't be the last time I see her in concert.
Previously
Keren Ann | Not Going Anywhere | Nolita
Posted in music | pictures at 3:23 AM | Comments (12) | TrackBack
January 7, 2005
Fiery Furnaces, Cat Power, more | Tribute to Junior Kimbrough
Fat Possum Records has released SUNDAY NIGHTS The Songs of Junior Kimbrough. The CD is a collection of Junior Kimbrough covers by artists like the Fiery Furnaces, Fat Possum's The Black Keys, Cat Power and Iggy Pop.
Specifically:
1. You Better Run (version #1) – Iggy and the Stooges (30 second clip)
2. Sad Days Lonely Nights – Spiritualized (30 second clip)
3. Meet Me In the City – Blues Explosion
4. Done Got Old – Heartless Bastards
5. My Mind is Rambling – The Black Keys
6. I’m Leaving – The Fiery Furnaces (30 second clip)
7. I Feel Good Again – Pete Yorn
8. Do the Romp – Cat Power & Entrance
9. All Night Long – Mark Lanegan
10. Release Me – Thee Shams
11. Done Got Old – Jim White
12. Lord Have Mercy On Me – Outrageous Cherry
13. Pull Your Clothes Off – Whitey Kirst
14. Burn In Hell – The Ponys
15. You Better Run (version #2) – Iggy and the Stooges
Stream an NPR review which includes the Black Keys track.
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A Bit of This and That
It looks like Voxtrot's site went down. Maybe all the Real Audio streaming was using too much bandwidth. Whatever it was, you can still download the MP3s in my last post, but the real audio stuff is down for now.
The $60 will-call-only benefit show tickets are on sale now for Norah Jones at Irving Plaza.
I didn't go to the TV on the Radio show at Trash last night, and neither did Stereogum, but he did post pictures from the show and a link to their new video.
He also posted a link to a pretty funny post that reacts to this one on Whatevs (as seen previously).
Like Stereogum, Central Village was watching the OC last night (obviously). He also posted a bunch of NYC show updates.
Posted in music at 5:15 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
Voxtrot | Rothko Saturday
I have no idea who the "Secret Special Guest" is playing Rothko in NYC Saturday, January 8th, but this show is most likely worth checking out anyway for a band from Austin, Texas called Voxtrot.
Listen to Voxtrot
The Start of Something (Real Audio, just click it to stream)
Missing Pieces (MP3, right click, save as)
Raised by Wolves (MP3, right click, save as)
Whiskey and Water (Real Audio, just click it to stream)
to love is to rob (Real Audio, just click it to stream)
Voxtrot have been described as "Smiths, Belle & Sebastian, C86 and
a dash of New Order." I'd describe them as pretty freakin good.
Shenzou 5 & Aero Wave open the show that's presented by North Loop + Filter. More info on that here.
Visit Voxtrot's official site, and let's hope that the "secret special guest" is really that special.
Posted in music at 3:38 AM | Comments (6) | TrackBack
Arcade Fire Update
I know. Now that it's 2005, "Arcade Fire" is a bad word or something.
Anyway, it seems the band was a little annoyed/confused at all the press they got about the "christmas ep."
They had this to say:
"I would have thought it would be obvious that the Arcade Fire never released a Christmas EP. Particularly since neither Regine or I are singing on the songs Pirchfork reviewed. But I guess the un-researched written word works Christmas miracles...I guess a tape recording of our friends making up funny songs at our Christmas party in 2002 is worthy of being reviewed, even though Tim, Richard, Howard, Jeremy, Sarah, and Will weren't even there. I still stand by Josh's rendition of O Holy Night as very funny, and Brendan singing Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire is genius.
Lucky no one ever busted us on these Christmas themed Arcade Fire press photos...
Have a very post-modern Christmas!"
Here's a link to a teeny tiny streaming Arcade Fire video from their July 28th, 2004 show at Local 506. You might have seen it already since Daily Refill posted it last year.
More Cowbell alerted me to a stream of their appearance on NPR yesterday.
Also from More Cowbell (who's been locked away in seclusion working hard on his forthcoming Arcade Fire fan site. Stay Tuned...) are details of the/an opener on the upcoming tour. It's Final Fantasy aka Owen Pallett playing violin. Name Ring a bell? He's the one who covered Joanna Newsom's Peach Plum Pear.
As everyone in NYC knows, the two upcoming shows here are sold out. Tale of Two Cities breaks down the scalping scene.
Those not in to scalping, can always try to win their tickets. Contests are popping up everywhere. Maybe even I'll throw one. Until then, you've got Youngna, Daily Refill, and Oh My Rockness all giving you a chance to win.
Finally, Chart Attack informs Canadians of all this success they're having down here.
Photos in this post also from More Cowbell. Gallery Here.
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Dead Can Dance Reuniting!
Best News Ever.
"Dead Can Dance have reunited and have lot's in store for the next year. A worldwide 2005 tour is in the mix, plus new recordings"
deadcandance.com has the European tour dates, with North American ones coming soon.
For those new to Dead Can Dance, here's a bio, and watch two videos here.
Posted in music at 12:05 AM | Comments (4) | TrackBack
January 6, 2005
Secret TV on the Radio show Tonight
According to Melody Nelson, TV on the Radio is playing a secret $8.00 show at Trash Bar in Williamsburg tonight. I suppose it's practice for their much more expensive show at BAM tomorrow.
Melody also notes that she'll be spinning at the Keren Ann show at Southpaw tomorrow.
Posted in music at 6:21 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
No, I mean some, more 2004 Best Of Lists
Admittedly, I got bored of the 2004 'best of lists.' Minus a few here and there thrown into other posts, I stopped the series over a week ago. I don't have it in me to do my own, so I'll leave you with just my best shows. Uncle Grambo (Whatevs) will thank me for it. (actually he probably won't, but it sounded good)
Wait, two more (they're quality I tell you):
Glide Magazine presents: Best of 2004: From the Artists' Perspective.
Three Imaginary Girls presents: Top 50 Northwest Releases of 2004
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Hip Hop Turns 30 | The Village Voice
Hip Hop Turns 30 - Whatcha Celebratin For?
Posted in music at 9:50 AM | Comments (1) | TrackBack
Quick Show Update
The Bravery are playing Northsix in Brooklyn on Jan. 29th. Some people caught them at Motherfucker on New Years Eve. According to Ambitious Outsiders, they're the next big thing.
Norah Jones is playing a benefit show at Irving Plaza on January 25th. Tickets go on sale Friday at noon.
A third Slint date was added at Irving Plaza.
The Plug Independent Music Awards at Webster Hall on Feb. 10th will feature Ted Leo, Dillinger Escape Plan and more.
Posted in music at 9:38 AM | Comments (1) | TrackBack
January 5, 2005
Random Music Stuff
Shows, News, Whatever
Thanks to Claire from Oh My Rockness for the heads up that Keren Ann is also on the bill at Tonic in NYC Thursday night.
Mystery and Misery presents his soundtrack album for 2005. All available for download.
One Louder & Stereogum both pointed out an interesting article about Pitchfork.
Coolfer had some interesting commentary on Rolling Stone's end of year "best of lists."
Largehearted Boy points us to the download of Wilco's New Year Eve set at MSG in NYC. Sleater Kinney's set from the same show is also available. The Flaming Lips also played that show, and supposedly they had naked dancers. Reviews from that show can be found here, here, and here. Pictures here and here. Wilco played a surprise show at Tinkle one night earlier.
Gothamist presents Movable Hype 1.5. Local Bands The Moirai, Dear Leader, Morning Theft and Fort Ancient are all on the bill. The last Movable Hype show at Knitting Factory was a good one.
Thanks to Daily Refill for pointing out that the Castanets are playing Knitting Factory's tap bar Thursday night. The Castanets are signed to Sufjan Steven's Asthmatic Kitty label, and Sufjan will be making an appearance as band member at this show. The Castanets put out a good, but rarely talked about, CD in 2004. As previously mentioned, Jason Forrest is playing Knitting Factory the same night.
I was just reading about Spencer Tweedy's band in SPIN today. Spencer is the nine year old son of Jeff, frontman for Wilco. He plays drums in a band called The Blisters. They don't seem to have a website, but as you can read in articles like this, The Blisters have collabaorated with Wilco. I wasn't even going to bring them up, but for some reason The Blisters were the first thing that came to mind when I read about Blue Fire on Let the Good Times Roll.
Tale of Two Cities always keeps us updated on drama associated with the Craiglist ticket section. Keeping in that spirit, extrawack! points out how you can get a free Arcade Fire ticket on Craigslist.
Everyone's talking about U2's world tour postponement.
A member of Brian Wilson's band was lost in the Tsunami.
Scissor Sisters sold more albums than Keane. As previously reported, they also just came out with a new video.
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Futureheads @ Bowery Ballroom, NYC | Tix on Sale
Feb. 22nd, 2004. Tickets.
Previously
Posted in music at 6:18 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
Donna Summer aka Jason Forrest | Stream
Donna Summer, aka Jason Forrest, is a DJ From WFMU who came out with a critically acclaimed album in 2004 called The Unrelenting Songs of the 1979 Post Disco Crash.
Awards include an 8.5 from Pitchfork, a spot on Res's list of 10 greatest videos of 2004, as well as Blender Magazine's top 50 albums & Spin's 10 best albums you didn't hear.
His radio show is called Advanced D&D, and you can stream and view the playlists back to 2002
Cock Rock Disco is his official site.
If you're in NYC, you can also catch him at Knitting Factory tomorrow night (6 January 2004).
Previously
Time for More Best of 2004 Lists (including Blender)
Another mention of Spin's 10 Best Albums You Never Heard
Knitting Factory Concert Update
Posted in music at 8:51 AM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
Keren Ann | Not Going Anywhere | Nolita
Launch this Keren Ann player to listen to four tracks off her latest (U.S.) album, Not Going Anywhere. Listen while you read.
Keren Ann = French. Not Going Anywhere is in English. The album was released in the U.S. in August 2004.
'After recording two successful CDs in France and co-writing the bulk of legendary French singer Henri Salvador's 2000 hit album Room with a View, the singer-songwriter Keren Ann makes her auspicious U.S. premiere with Not Going Anywhere on Metro Blue Records (an imprint of Blue Note Records). The CD is a sumptuous acoustic pop album of 11 finely crafted, lyrical gems. It marks Keren Ann's debut singing a full package of songs in English.' (EMI)
With Not Going Anywhere barely out a month in the USA, Keren went ahead and released another album in France. Title = Nolita.
'Keren Ann is a multi-cultural phenomenon. The Dutch-born singer has adopted France as her homeland, but recently took a temporary break in New York to record her new album, Nolita.' (radiofrance)
'In November, EMI Music held a listening party in Paris to celebrate the French release of “Nolita,” the new album by the Israeli-Dutch singer and songwriter Keren Ann, who is thirty.' (the new yorker)
Music blog, The Mystical Beast, had tracks from Nolita. available for download just three weeks ago. (sorry they're gone now). 'Ann's vocals hit an exceedingly tasteful spot somewhere between Claudine Longet's whisper and Hope Sandoval's heroin hangover, arriving at a point where her voice lacks audibility and expression in equal parts. Add the French-ish accent, and you get distant, sexy, and foreign, and I can't imagine what could be more appealing to a certain kind of male reader, other than "inaccessible." ' (The Mystical Beast)
You can stream 30 second teaser clips of all Keren's songs on her website. Nolita Here. | Not Going Anywhere Here.
And as usual, we lucky New Yorkers not only have the only chance to see her in the U.S.A., but many chances to see her in the near future. (although she did recently play PA and VA).
Jan 7th, SouthPaw, Brooklyn, NY (tix) (La Laque opening)
Jan 9th, The Knitting Factory, NY (tix)
March 1, Joe's Pub, 9.30pm
March 23, Joe's Pub, 9.30pm
Canadians recently had the chance to check out Keren as well. For the 'records' was there. Read their review. (chosen over Feist, who was playing in Toronto the same night)
Watch some Videos at her official site.
Download "Right Now, Right Here" (mp3) from the album Not Going Anywhere. Courtesy of 'Princess Klara & Blarni.'
Not a bad review from Pitchfork, and appearing on more than a few year end 'best of' lists. More positive notes at PopMatters. Stylus Magazine too.
I'm sold.
Posted in music at 2:21 AM | Comments (10) | TrackBack
January 4, 2005
Colin Meloy (Decemberists) cover Morrissey
I want to say that you should rush over to Jim's Doomsday Robot and download the live cover of Morrissey's 'Sister I'm a Poet' by Colin Meloy of the Decemberists, BUT it's so-so, so just walk slowly.
As previously reported many places, like this Morrissey site, Colin will be selling a tour-only Morrissey cover CD called "Colin Meloy sings...Morrissey" on his upcoming solo tour. In NYC, he'll be playing Fez twice, both of which are now sold out.
Previously
2nd NYC Colin Meloy Solo Date Added
Colin Meloy on the Picaresque Leak
Colin Meloy Solo Tickets for Sale
Posted in music at 5:03 PM | Comments (1) | TrackBack
TV on the Radio & P-Funk in Brooklyn Friday
Winter Soul
George Clinton and the P-Funk All-Stars
TV on the Radio
Curated by Danny Kapilian
BAM Howard Gilman Opera House
Jan 7 at 7:30pm Tickets: $20, 30, 40, 45
Previously
Posted in music at 12:39 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
Goliath's Feeling Deprived
He reminded me I haven't posted any pictures of him in a long, long time.
Posted in goliath at 2:14 AM | Comments (5) | TrackBack
Disco Exhibition @ The New York Public Library
DISCO: A Decade of Saturday Nights
From February 1, 2005 through May 14, 2005
Donald and Mary Oenslager Gallery
The New York Public Library for the Performing Arts, 40 Lincoln Center Plaza, New York, NY 10023-7498 (directions)
Hours: Tues, Wed, Fri & Sat: 12 to 6; Thurs: 12 to 8
More information at And We Danced Daily.
Posted in music | music history at 2:04 AM | Comments (14) | TrackBack
Scissor Sisters "Filthy, Gorgeous" Video
Stream the new Scissor Sisters video.
[real]
[windowsMedia]
More on the video, including how to see the uncensored version, at Arjan Writes.
Previously
John Cameron Mitchell, Scissor Sisters video | X-Rated Download
Posted in music at 1:43 AM | Comments (8) | TrackBack
Bands on Tour
Kings of Convenience are on tour, and playing Bowery Ballroom in NYC on Feb. 7th & 8th. Listen to their entire last album, and download two tracks, including the one they did with Leslie Feist, at The Big Ticket.
Central Village let me know that the Futureheads are playing a still unannounced show at Bowery Ballroom on Feb. 22nd with The Shout Out Louds (from Sweden). I missed the announcement on Let the Good Times Roll back on December 9th. Jasper's got photos of the Shout Out Louds from February. New York Doll too.
Mercury Lounge has the hot shows this month, with the Constantines and Oakley Hall on the 8th, the Dears, Saints & Lovers and Benzos on the 15th, The Hold Steady & White Hassle on the 19th, and Sea Ray's final show on the 21st.
Oakley Hall is a Brooklyn "country-rock" band featuring Crazee from Oneida. More on some of these shows at Central Village.
More Cowbell also posted the Secret Machines, Autolux tour dates today. In New York, it's Irving Plaza on March 5th.
I'm still post-holiday-hibernating, but if you need a show to see this week, Coolfer's got more info.
Previously
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January 3, 2005
2nd NYC Colin Meloy Solo Date Added
Monday, January 24 at 11:00 PM | Tickets
Previously
Colin Meloy on the Picaresque Leak
Posted in music at 3:10 PM | Comments (1) | TrackBack
January 2, 2005
Best Shows of 2004 | MP3s Included
this post contains never-before-released MP3s and pics, and a bunch of links. enjoy.
word count
amazing: 5
excellent: 3
show: 42
concert: 3
==================================================================
A list of the "best shows of 2004" is obviously a very personal, subjective, and somewhat random thing. I go to a lot of concerts, but still probably only saw less than .001% of all the live music events held in NYC in 2004.
Even among the shows I'm interested in, I probably only hit a small number. I attended three of Central Village's nine favorites, one on Melody Nelson's list of nine, none of the NY equivalents of the twelve Torr posted, and only four of One Louder's fifteen.
Everyone at a show leaves with a different experience. You could be at "the greatest show of the year," but if you're stuck in the back corner directly behind a basketball player, after not having slept the night before, you would probably be happier at home in bed. Mood plays such an important part of show enjoyment. blah blah blah.
Here's a list of the shows (that I remember I went to) that I most enjoyed in 2004.
Sufjan Stevens @ South Street Seaport
1) Any Sufjan Stevens show.
Most notable:
Sufjan & Baby, Knitting Factory, January 22nd - this CMJ sponsored show was the first time I saw Sufjan, and Craig Wedren from Shudder To Thinks's new band Baby
Sufjan, South Street Seaport, July 1st - this free outdoor show held on Canada day brought Canada banter into Sufjan's Michigan routine, and included a surreal experience where Sufjan debuted his own version of The Star Spangled Banner against the backdrop of the ships in the Sea Port while the crowd and band all held up flags handed out by Sufjan.
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Sufjan Stevens, and band, covered The Star Spangled Banner at their South Street Seaport show.
DOWNLOAD: The Star Spangled Banner live @ South Street Seaport (mp3, right click, save as)
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2) Any Decemberists show. Like Sufjan, I actually got Decemberists overload and started not going to the shows they played toward the end of the year. (pics)
Most notable:
Decemberists & Clearlake two nights in a row, March 25 & 26, Mercury Lounge & Bowery Ballroom - Clearlake is an amazing band that came out with one of my favorite albums of 2003. Decemberists never play a bad show.
Decemberists & The Long Winters, June 17, Echo Lounge, Atlanta, GA - I saw this same show in NYC (twice), and just so happened to be working in Atlanta when the tour made it there. Seeing one of my favorite bands in a foreign place makes this one special. This tour also made me a fan of the Long Winters, who put on an excellent live show.
Decemberists | Clearlake | Long Winters
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The Decemberists played The Sporting Life, from their upcoming album, at the show in Atlanta.
DOWNLOAD: The Sporting Life live @ The Echo Lounge (mp3, right click, save as)
(as seen previously on this site)
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3) TV on the Radio, April 8, Mercury Lounge - TVOTR shows often get mixed reviews. They proved why they deserve all the hype at this small venue show.
4) Scissor Sisters, Morningwood & Special Guests, May 23, Bowery Ballroom - I can't say enough good things about Scissor Sisters and Bowery Ballroom as a venue. The mix was magical at this LAMDA benefit show that included the always amazing live band, Morningwood. Special guests Fred Schneider from the B52s & half of Kiki & Herb made the show that much more exciting.
Scissor Sisters | Morningwood | The B52's | Kiki & Herb
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Fred Schneider sang Monster (in my pants) with the Scissor Sisters.
DOWNLOAD: Monster live @ Bowery Ballroom (mp3, right click, save as)
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5) They Might Be Giants, David Cross, Todd Barry, and Sarah Vowell, June 4th, Southpaw - A benefit for 826NY, it was great to see TMBG in a small venue in their home of Brooklyn, NY. David Cross and Todd Barry, the biggest comedians on the NY indie rock circuit, cracked me up as usual. Todd actually stole the show, and convinced those with blogs to include the term "jewforever" on their blogs the next day. It worked.
They Might Be Giants | David Cross | Todd Barry | Sarah Vowell
Joanna Newsom @ The Drag City Christmas Party
6) Every Devendra Banhart and Joanna Newsom show (Devendra pics)
Most Notable:
Devendra, Joanna, Antony, and Vetiver, June 21st, Bowery Ballroom - I'm not listing my shows in particular order, but this one would definitely be in the top three. Devendra puts on such an amazing live show, I leave every show not believing what I just witnessed. Add Joanna Newsom as an opener. It what was the first time I saw her live, and I had prepared all week by listening to the Milk Eyed Mender non-stop. Add Antony, another amazing artist, who I was seeing for the first time. Add Vetiver, a group of musicians who play with Devendra and have their own group. so, so, so, so, good.
Joanna Newsom, June 22nd, Mercury Lounge - an early show added at the last minute while Joanna was in town with Devendra. A chance to see her two nights in a row. With no advanced tickets, I was already standiong on line around 6:00 for the 7:00 show. (pic)
Drag City Christmas Party, December 18 & 19, Bowery Ballroom - Two more nights in a row of Joanna with Smog and Weird War. Joanna proves she's a ticket selling force, arguably being the reason this show sold out two nights in a row at the 550 capacity Bowery Ballroom. (pics, pic)
Devendra Banhart | Joanna Newsom | (smog) | Weird War | Antony | Vetiver | SOO
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Joanna Newsom sang This Side of the Blue with her friend Stacy at the Mercury Lounge show
DOWNLOAD: This Side of the Blue live @ Mercury Lounge (mp3, right click, save as)
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7) The Secret Machines & Calla (solo, acoustic), July 13, Sin-e - shortly after being signed to a major label, and blowing up to the point being noticed by David Bowie & landing the opening spot on Interpol's tour, The Secret Machines played this intense benefit show in a small Lower East Side venue.
8) Franz Ferdinand, The Delays, The Futureheads, September 9, Roseland - Best lineup of UK it-bands. Well worth the inflated Roseland large-venue-inflated-ticket-price. (pics, pics)
Franz Ferdinand | The Delays | The Futureheads
Bright Eyes @ North Six
9) Bright Eyes featuring Craig Wedren, Kevin Devine, September 23, Northsix - Yet another big band, small venue, benefit show. This one was for the legal defense fund of the protesters arrested at the RNC. Craig Wedren surprised me by a) being part of the Bright Eyes band, and b) performing two Shudder to Think songs. Kevin Devine, although I'm not a huge fan, was a great opener. (pics)
Bright Eyes | Craig Wedren | Kevin Devine
Fiery Furnaces @ Bowery Ballroom
10) Fiery Furnaces, September 25th, Bowery Ballroom - After catching their disappointing performance earlier in the year at The Siren Festival, it was extremely refreshing to see The Fiery Furnaces at their best. Tight, magical show. (pics, pics) (fluxblog review)
Bloc Party @ Knitting Factory
11) Both Bloc Party shows in NYC
Bloc Party, September 30th, Knitting Factory - hype-living-up-to amazing U.S. debut by one of the most exciting bands playing music today. (pics)
Bloc Party, October 2nd, Tribeca Grand - details of how Tribeca Grand (the promoters) treated their customers aside, an excellent NYC encore performance in a night club setting. (pics)
Gratitude @ Downtime
12) Gratitude, The Features, October 12, pre-CMJ party @ Downtime - the NYC debut of Jonah Matranga's new band, Gratitude was especially exciting for me. Jonah, previously of Far, New End Original, and Onelinedrawing, is one of my favorite musicians. Plus, this was free. (pic, pics)
13) CMJ Day 1, October 13 - possibly one of the most surreal days in my personal indie-rock-concert-going history. In one day, in four small venues including a radio studio and the "legendary" CBGB, I saw Ted Leo, Sufjan Stevens, The Decemberists, The Arcade Fire, Gratitude, Magneta Lane, and David Kilgour. (pics)
Ted Leo, Sufjan Stevens, The Decemberists, Museum of TV & Radio, KEXP studio - Three of my favorite artists in a row in a room the size of my bedroom, live on the radio. (pics)
Ted Leo | Sufjan Stevens | The Decemberists | KEXP
Magneta Lane, CBs Downstairs Lounge - These young Canadian girls caught my attention earlier in the year, so I made it a point to check out their U.S. debut during CMJ. (pics)
Gratitude, CBGB - after seeing Magneta Lane downstairs, I went to the main stage of CBGB upstairs to catch the second night in a row of Gratitude.
Arcade Fire, David Kilgour, Mercury Lounge - I actually saw David earlier in the night, and went back to Mercury Lounge after Gratitude to catch the most anticipated of all CMJ shows, The Arcade Fire. They lived up to Funeral, and then some (pics, pics)
The Arcade Fire | David Kilgour
The Arcade Fire @ KEXP
14) CMJ Day 2, October 14 - as if the previous day wasn't enough, I finished off my two day CMJ run with a second day of Arcade Fire, then Baby & Har Mar Superstar, and a final late-night Jonah Matranga (sans Gratitude) show. (pics)
Arcade Fire, Museum of TV & Radio, KEXP studio - KEXP let about 50 lucky fans watch the Arcade Fire perform in a room that barely fit all members of the band, let along a studio audience. (pic)
Har Mar Superstar & Baby, Coral Room - Craig Wedren (Baby) officially made appearances at four of my favorite concerts of the year. This was another one. Har Mar Superstar surprised me as one of the most fun performers I saw in 2004. (pics, pics)
Jonah Matranga solo, CB's Gallery - After two nights of Gratitude, I got to see Jonah perform an intimate Onelinedrawing style show.
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My guess is that most people don't know Jonah's music. Here's a studio version of one of his most popular songs.
DOWNLOAD: Letter by Onelinedrawing (mp3, right click, save as)
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15) Arcade Fire, Hidden Cameras, Dirty on Purpose, November 11, Bowery Ballroom - a month after their much buzzed CMJ performances, Arcade Fire came back for one of the most in-demand tickets of the year. The Hidden Cameras put on an exhilarating opening show, and local faves Dirty on Purpose were thrown in for good measure. (pics, pics)
The Arcade Fire | Hidden Cameras
16) Pixies, November 26, CEPSUM Stadium, Montreal - My first time ever seeing the Pixies. Lots of energy. Huge venue, but comfortable and great crowd, and...in Montreal. (recap)
17) Calexico, December 7th, Bowery Ballroom - excellent group, excellent venue. my reviews are getting shorter. (pics)
18) Broken Social Scene three nights in a row, once with the Pixies - a BSS rollercoaster with a sprinkling of Pixie dust. (pics, recap, pics, pics)
19) U2 under the Brooklyn Bridge, November 22nd - huge band, beautiful setting, crazy antics, a spectacle. (pics, pics)
Wilco @ Tinkle
20) Tinkle with Wilco, David Cross, Todd Barry & Eugene Mirman, December 30th, Pianos - a great way to end the year, with a special guest that left me star-struck.(pics, pics)
Wilco | David Cross | Todd Barry | Eugene Mirman
Honorable Mentions
Eagles of Death Metal & Minibosses @ Mercury Lounge
The Unicorns @ Knitting Factory
any Onelinedrawing show
The Wearkerthans @ Bowery Ballroom (pics)
Destroyer & Frog Eyes @ Mercury Lounge
The Zutons @ Mercury Lounge (pics)
Rilo Kiley @ Bowery Ballroom (pics, pics, pics)
Mountain Goats & John Vanderslice @ Knitting Factory (pics)
Chin Up Chin Up @ The Delancey (pics)
From Autumn To Ashes @ Knitting Factory
Morningwood, Dogs Die in Hot Cars & Baby @ Mercury Lounge
Murphy's Law @ Rocks Off Cruise (pics)
Sonic Youth @ Webster Hall (pics)
Movable Hype (recap)
Shows I Wish I Saw
Franz Ferdinand @ Bowery Ballroom (offsite pics)
Keane @ Knitting Factory (offsite pics)
The Delays @ Mercury Lounge (offsite review)
Courtney Love @ Bowery Ballroom & Plaid (offsite pics)
Rilo Kiley @ Knitting Factory (offsite pics)
AC Newman @ Bowery Ballroom
Libertines @ Bowery Ballroom
Vincent Gallo @ Rothko (I had to sell my tickets) (offsite review)
Futureheads @ Rothko (I got a refund when it was over capacity) (offsite review)
Secret Machines @ Rothko
All Kimya Dawson shows
Wilco & Fiery Furnaces @ Radio City (I ended up selling my tickets outside...long story)
Junior Boys @ Bowery Ballroom, Other Music, & Joes Pub
American Music Club @ KF (they went on too early!)
Arcade Fire @ Mercury Lounge (pre-Funeral) (offsite review)
etc...
Most Disappointing Cancellation Due to Rain
Joanna Newsom @ South Street seaport
Too Profitable to Pass Up Scalping Moments (so I didn't go)
Franz Ferdinand @ Webster Hall
Keane @ Irving Plaza
Concert Tragedy of 2004
The Damageplan Concert Shooting
Most Blogged About Concert Reunion Tour
More Shows I Posted Pictures Of
None More Black @ Knitting Factory
O.M.I. @ Ruby Falls
Cat Power @ East River Amphitheatre
Modest Mouse @ Webster Hall
Fiery Furnaces @ The Siren Festival 2004
Bob Log III @ Southpaw
Apostle of Hustle @ The Hook
Juliette & The Licks @ Tribeca Rock
Nancy Sinatra @ Joe's Pub
Posted in music | pictures at 2:30 PM | Comments (25) | TrackBack
Knitting Factory Lawsuit
This story is two weeks old now. I meant to post it before.
"NEW YORK - The management of the renowned avant-garde music club the Knitting Factory reached a settlement with artists on its record label after they alleged the label owed them royalties and disposed of unsold CDs.
Knitmedia Inc., which runs the Knitting Factory clubs in New York and Los Angeles and Knitting Factory Records, agreed to pay $1,250 in back royalties to each musician who signed on to the settlement, said David Lennon, president of Local 802 of the American Federation of Musicians. The company also agreed to return to the approximately 80 artists all rights to their work and the master recordings, he said."
Knitting Factory Settles With Musicians
Posted in music at 11:43 AM | Comments (1) | TrackBack
Colin Meloy on the Picaresque Leak
Okay folks.
While I know there's really nothing in our power (ethically, that is) to stop people from leaking promo copies of the new record on the internet, we can't rightly be supporting that sort of information exchange on our own message board.
Now: we have always been very open to P2P exchanges; I think's it been nothing but beneficial to us. Without the likes of you kind folks exchanging mp3's, I doubt we'd be where we are today. I get the feeling that your average person who comes to a Decemberist show is of a very special fabric, someone who often finds other ways to support the band if they did get the records from a P2P network.
That said, leaking a promo of a record that does not come out for another three and a half months is not so cool. We spend a lot of time prepping for the release of a record -- we have a lot of folks working very hard to make sure the record gets a proper release at the scheduled time. It'd be nice to think that we have enough control over our art to keep our records veiled until we see fit to unveil them.
And on top of that issue, there is the issue of record sales. If a record is leaked this early, I have no doubt that, unchecked, it could make a serious impact on the sales of the record once it is released. If someone really wants to hear the songs at this point, they'd have no recourse but download it; it won't be available in the stores for months. Keep in mind that ourselves and KRS are not a bunch of money-grubbing corporate CEOs. We are a bunch of folks who have worked very hard to get where we are, working independently of corporate largesse, and count ourselves very lucky to be making our art for a living.
I realize that it's a new day and age and I can't stop this sort of stuff from happening -- I think that all attempts in the past of stopping this stuff legally has smacked of corporate bullying -- but please (and this is the sentimental bit) reach into your heart of hearts and realize that if you really really loved us, you'd wait until the record comes out, on March 22nd, to get the record.
Hope that doesn't sound too stern or preachy. We've deleted that thread. I know that's kind of a silly action to take, but decemberists.com can't be a place for disseminating information that's decidedly contrary to the band's interests.
I will, though, give you the correct tracklisting for the record -- it was printed wrong in early press releases:
1. The Infanta
2. We Both Go Down Together
3. Eli, the Barrow Boy
4. The Sporting Life
5. The Bagman's Gambit
6. From My Own True Love (Lost at Sea)
7. Sixteen Military Wives
8. The Engine Driver
9. On the Bus Mall
10. The Mariner's Revenge Song
11. Of Angels and Angles
Best,
Colin Meloy
Previously
Colin Meloy Solo Tickets for Sale
Posted in music at 2:52 AM | Comments (14) | TrackBack
Tinkle @ Pianos | Fred Armisen | More Pics
Fred Armisen on the right
As I sat home recovering from New Years Eve tonight, I caught Saturday Night Live (a repeat from the week of the Tara Reid boob flash). Modest Mouse was the musical guest, and they played an impressive two songs, but that's besides the point. What most caught my attention was the appearance of Fred Armisen as a member of the cast. I'm not real up on the cast of SNL, so I didn't even realize while at Tinkle that Fred was a member.
PAUL F. TOMPKINS
Armisen recently landed on Rolling Stone’s “Hot List” as well as his first major feature film role in the upcoming Will Ferrell feature “Anchorman.”
Armisen began his career as a musician in the Chicago-based post-punk band Trenchmouth as well as playing with Blue Man Group. His transition to comedy came with the 1998 underground short film “Fred Armisen’s Guide to Music and SXSW” which followed him through the Austin, Texas “South By Southwest Music Festival” posing as a music journalist.
He has brought his characters to “Late Night with Conan O’Brien,” the Chicago Comedy Festival and programs on British television. He has also appeared on HBO’s music show “Reverb” and in his own eponymous interstitial series on “HBO Zone” as well as in the Wilco documentary “I Am Trying To Break Your Heart.”
Read more about Tinkle @ Central Village & @ Lindsayism
Previously
Tinkle 2004 @ Pianos, NYC | Wilco | Pics
Posted in music at 1:19 AM | Comments (5) | TrackBack