Friday, January 27, 2017
Wednesday, January 18, 2017
Tuesday, January 17, 2017
Friday, January 13, 2017
Thursday, January 12, 2017
Wednesday, October 5, 2016
Radiohead - The Numbers
Dang, it's been a while. Again. I've got an excuse this time. Computer went kaput. Good news is I've got a new one. And it's way faster. That means greater productivity, right?
Here's Thom Yorke and Jonny Greenwood in live action.
Directed by Paul Thomas Anderson.
Here's Thom Yorke and Jonny Greenwood in live action.
Directed by Paul Thomas Anderson.
Thursday, September 15, 2016
Sunday, September 11, 2016
Saturday, September 10, 2016
Caravan
Dick Morrissey - Saxophone
Brian Dee - Piano
Len Skeat - Bass
Charly Antolini - Drums
Bern Jazz Festival 1993
Brian Dee - Piano
Len Skeat - Bass
Charly Antolini - Drums
Bern Jazz Festival 1993
Friday, September 9, 2016
Soundgarden - Been Away Too Long
Sometimes you just need an extended break. A hiatus? This is my longest yet! Must mean I'm making a comeback. I still need go to back in time for a bit. Time travel is dangerous. Wish me luck? Oh, and what's up with this crowd? Wall Street-only admission?
Monday, January 11, 2016
David Bowie - Bring Me The Disco King
I got insanely busy and didn't finish my list. I'm going to go back in time and fix that pronto. In the meantime we've lost Lemmy and Bowie in a matter of days. Both were musical titans, but the latter had the greater influence on me. He was brilliant, and managed to reinvent himself in so many ways that were genuine, not merely doing it to be different. I'm just gonna post some of his videos this week, and then probably never post one again.
Sunday, December 27, 2015
Best of 2015 Part 3
On to day 3 and so far I'm only regretting one selection, but it's a minor issue of ordering so that's pretty good. I'm sure I'll find some albums early in 2016 that I complete missed from this year that will scream "I should have been there!" but them's the breaks. Times are busy so let's get back to what we're here for.
#15
Jamie xx
In Colour
I really just want to call this guy Jamie Smith, because that's what his name is and the 'xx' part is stupid. Anyway I was surprised by this album. I didn't think I would be into it at all, but after a couple listens I was pretty impressed. Not really sure what I expected.
Like his old music with 'The xx', this album has a layered, ethereal sound that's progressive, but in a measured way. He uses space well, with minimal foreground dripped on top of sweeping atmosphere. Only a couple tracks feature any meaningful lyrics, which isn't bad by any means. My least favorite track is the most mainstream one featuring Young Thug. I don't really hear any classic singles, but it works as a collection from front to back.
Gosh
Sleep Sound
Loud Places
#14
Uffe
Radio Days
Uffe Christensen is a Danish electronic producer who has only done singles up until now. In his first full-length album he's done a commendable job of putting together catchy beats and blending them into a cohesive construct. Nothing feels out of place.
His sound is glitchy, minimalist, and eclectic. There are moments of late night deep tech house, bouncy UK garage grooves, downtempo trip-hop, and just a whole whack of varied sounds mashed together. It reminds me of slightly more subdued Siriusmo, another spastic producer who has featured on these charts before. Do yourself a favour and check this one out.
I Can Show You High
Lemon Nights
Die For You
#13
John Tejada
Signs Under Test
Another ethereal album, awash in reverb but more pulsing than Jamie xx. This one is purely instrumental. I think the best description is late night trance tech. This latest album from the Austrian producer isn't overly emotive, it just kind of expands through stillness.
Some really interesting synth choices really help accentuate the melodic lines in between frazzled fringe percussion. There's a lot of care taken to use air to give a delicate sense of changing pressure, as if the music were going for a deep sea dive down a tunnel. Probably not for those who aren't intently into electronic music, but I found it captivating.
Some really interesting synth choices really help accentuate the melodic lines in between frazzled fringe percussion. There's a lot of care taken to use air to give a delicate sense of changing pressure, as if the music were going for a deep sea dive down a tunnel. Probably not for those who aren't intently into electronic music, but I found it captivating.
Two 0 One
Beacht
Meadow
EP #5
Møme
Cosmopolitan
This is Jérémy Souillart. He's French, but he lives in Australia. Interesting decision. He makes what I guess you'd call chillwave, or maybe chillstep? I dunno. Genres are so often lost on me now, not that they're important. Gender, genre, seems to be a theme there. Anyway I digress. This is great collection of five tracks, including a booming psychedelic house track at the end. Two thumbs way up.
Cyclope
Hangover
Cosmopolitan
Tomorrow we tickle the toes of the top 10.
Saturday, December 26, 2015
Best of 2015 Part 2
These last days of the year always seem to fly by, even more so than the rest. Could be the constant eating, drinking, and all the writing... or maybe my internal clock is just scrambled beyond repair, Whatever it is, we've got three more album to look at, so let's hop to it.
#18
Iris
Liquid Sunshine
There aren't too many prominent female hip-hop producers on the scene these days. That fact doesn't actually earn her any bonus points, just throwing it out there. I have no idea what her real name is (maybe it's Iris), and again, it doesn't matter. Her beats are dope.
In the past I've championed the likes of Brock Berrigan, Apollo Brown, and Wax Tailor, This is something similar, sample based with elements of the funk soul brother tied together with crispy drum tracks. There are some great sounds on this one, I highly recommend it if you're into instrumental hip-hop. Pick it up online here!
Seoul Soul
Azoto Rain
Bustability
#17
Laszlo
Cartoon Hero
Another 80's inspired album, this time from Aaron Wheeler, a disco producer often found on the Monstercat label. The majority of his work seems to be electro-dance stuff that doesn't really appeal to me, but he clearly has some talent and versatility as he shows here. That might sound strange considering this isn't far off electro, but there is actually quite a range of interesting sounds jammed together on this album.
It's a proper concept album, an audio tribute to the great cartoon heroes we used to watch as kids. It's definitely not for dancing, with eclectic grooves and quick transitions, Elements of dubstep, electro, synth pop are all there. It's a great listen, lots of fun for the kids, and at 38 minutes not too taxing on the brain.
What Did We Learn Today Kids?
Cartoon Hero
Supermassive
#16
Owiny Sigoma Band
Nyanza
It's been a while since these crazies have graced the blog, four years since they checked in around the same spot on my 'Best of 2011' chart. This album isn't quite as good as their self-titled debut, it's a bit faster and heavier rhythmically, but it's still very injoyable.
There are times when this album feels very techy. Thumping tribal Kenyan house music of sorts. Most of the vocals are heavily processed to give it a dub feel. Reverb and delay are applied liberally. If I have a complaint it's that the pacing of the song order is a little off. Some re-organization might have gone a ways to fixing that, but that doesn't take away from the quality of some serious jams.
There are times when this album feels very techy. Thumping tribal Kenyan house music of sorts. Most of the vocals are heavily processed to give it a dub feel. Reverb and delay are applied liberally. If I have a complaint it's that the pacing of the song order is a little off. Some re-organization might have gone a ways to fixing that, but that doesn't take away from the quality of some serious jams.
I Made You, You Made Me
Changaa
Luo Land
EP #6
Foreign Fields
What I Kept In Hiding
These guys are really good, but they're also really boring. Kind of like the Mumford & Sons of indie folk but half the speed. It's like they only have one tempo, and one way to write songs. What they do, though, they do very well. Their sound is great, they're polished live, but man.. branch out a little gentlemen. Don't get me wrong. This EP is excellent, and the format suits them perfectly. I'd just like to see something different from some obviously talented individuals.
I Have Your Weapons
In Hiding
Subtle Weight
Part 3 ahead, with some experimental sounds.
Friday, December 25, 2015
Best of 2015 Part 1
Holy it's Christmas Day. That means it's time to start my 6th annual 'Best of" list, 21 albums that grabbed my attention this year. I have to say it hasn't been the greatest year music-wise, for me anyway. I've heard varied opinions, as one does in the subjective arts business, but I felt that while there were a lot of 'interesting' albums, not many really grabbed hold of me like in years gone by. Just one of those years? Could be.
Only two repeat 'champions' find their way into the reckoning this year, and many of these artists were entirely new to me. That's a good thing, I suppose. In case you're wondering who made it in the past five years, you can check them out here:
Actually I should add that this year could be described as 'year of the EP'. I had serious trouble trying to narrow it down to only seven, there are plenty of contenders that have missed out that on another day could easily have sneaked in. On the LP side, not so much. The top half of the table is pretty solid, the bottom a bit here and there.
Let's get stuck in, shall we?
Only two repeat 'champions' find their way into the reckoning this year, and many of these artists were entirely new to me. That's a good thing, I suppose. In case you're wondering who made it in the past five years, you can check them out here:
Actually I should add that this year could be described as 'year of the EP'. I had serious trouble trying to narrow it down to only seven, there are plenty of contenders that have missed out that on another day could easily have sneaked in. On the LP side, not so much. The top half of the table is pretty solid, the bottom a bit here and there.
Let's get stuck in, shall we?
#21
Sufjan Stevens
Carrie & Lowell
Let me preface this by saying that I'm not really a Sufjan Stevens fan. Not a great way to start an appraisal is it? He's flighty, often limited in scope, and just doesn't really grip me all the time. I really enjoyed his Illinois album, but otherwise found him very hit and miss.
This offering isn't a masterpiece. It's still whispy yet it has a certain weight to it, both lyrically and harmonically, that makes it stick out from other indie folk albums this year. It's sparse and droning, with just enough instrumentation in the background to keep its momentum creeping forward. For what it is, it's a solid effort from an unusual fellow.
Death With Dignity
Should Have Known Better
Carrie & Lowell
#20
Timecop 1983
Reflections
This one is unapologetically one dimensional 80's synth wave, and it's juicy. I guess the name might have given that away. Jordy Leenaerts is the man behind the brand, and he's created some serious throwback tunes. Nearly every track on this album sounds like it could have been a one hit wonder about 30 years ago.
If you're not into epic cheesy synth ballads, don't even bother with this one. If you're like me and enjoy some dreamy synthesizer accompanied by a drum machine, dive right in. This won't make any best-of-the-decade lists, not even close. It's still a fun album, which just so happens to be good enough in a bit of an off year.
New Horizons
Lost Without You
My First Crush
#19
Humans
Noontide
This is a new band for me, who I actually discovered from a shirt that Shamos was wearing. He said I might like them, and hey, I do. Robbie Slade and Peter Ricq are from Vancouver, and they play with lots of buttons and dials and vocoders and such, it's pretty cool. Reminds me of a heavier Caribou, or a more conventional take on The Knife.
Like the others, this album isn't a grand slam for me, but it's getting better with each listen and there are some undeniably catchy beats that reach out amidst the sludgier sounds. 'Ennio' has a relatively mainstream sound, while 'Cold Soba' is glitchy and washed out. It makes for an intense hour of listening. I haven't delved too deeply into their older stuff, but based on this I've got some catching up to do.
Like the others, this album isn't a grand slam for me, but it's getting better with each listen and there are some undeniably catchy beats that reach out amidst the sludgier sounds. 'Ennio' has a relatively mainstream sound, while 'Cold Soba' is glitchy and washed out. It makes for an intense hour of listening. I haven't delved too deeply into their older stuff, but based on this I've got some catching up to do.
Follow
All My
Tell Me
EP #7
Zero 7
EP3
My first EP selection has a terrible name. In case you haven't noticed it's a pet peeve of mine. Anyway we won't let that get in the way of the great tunes on it, four originals and one remix. Henry Binns and Sam Hardaker have put together a terrific little release with some great vocalists like José González and newcomer Danny Pratt, whose style is very similar to Sampha of SBTRKT fame. The opening track, '400 Blows', is one of my favorites of the year. I can't for the life of me understand how it doesn't have a video!
Last Light
The Colour Of Spring
400 Blows
Tomorrow, part 2!
Thursday, December 24, 2015
Styx - Come Sail Away
Last Throwback Thursday of the year. Let's make it a good one. I've posted this before, but it was the studio version. This is a killer live performance from Dennis DeYoung.
Wednesday, December 23, 2015
Unknown Mortal Orchestra - Multi-Love
This album didn't make my best-of list, but it's worth checking out.
Silversun Pickups - Lazy Eye
Almost there! My 'Best of 2015' countdown starts on Friday. Just one more day after today! I hear these guys have a new album. Haven't checked it out yet. This is a goodie.
Tuesday, December 22, 2015
Monday, December 21, 2015
City and Colour - Boiled Frogs
Acoustic Metal Monday? Sure, let's do it. Loud songs made quiet. Would have been nice to see a better video of this, but anyway. Don't forget the original. It's better.
Sunday, December 20, 2015
Sandpeople - Roll Call
Went and saw Star Wars tonight. It was good. Not great, certainly has its story limitations, but I won't spoil them for ya. Check it out yourself, but first check this.
Saturday, December 19, 2015
Slowcoaster - Fuck Last Night
This is turning into east coast jam band week. Nothing wrong with that.
Friday, December 18, 2015
Thursday, December 17, 2015
Wednesday, December 16, 2015
Erlend Øye - Garota
I'm not sure I gave this album enough credit last year. Defo worth a few listens.
Tuesday, December 15, 2015
Quannum - I Changed My Mind
Don't let the name throw you off. This is Lyrics Born in disguise. Da best.
Monday, December 14, 2015
Periphery - Stranger Things
Over 30 straight days I've had this updated now. Let's shoot for a new record. I don't actually know what the record is, so I'll have to go back and take a look. Amazingly we're very quickly approaching the end of the year, which of course means we're close to my 'Best of 2015' list. Exciting and scary at the same time, because I've still got a lot of listening to do and then I've got to sort out my rankings, which are very, very loose at the moment. Will I make it in time? Stranger things have happened.
Sunday, December 13, 2015
Mantler - I've Been Destroyed
Well we had our little disco party yesterday, so let's cool it down today. Remember this dude? He now goes by Marker Starling. Personally like Mantler better.
Saturday, December 12, 2015
Roy Davis Jr. - Boiler Room London
One song isn't enough. We need an hour of soulful funky house beats to get us ready to boogie. As it happens, I have just the thing.
Friday, December 11, 2015
Wild Belle - Giving Up On You
Well this doesn't sound much like their older stuff. Not sure what to think.
Thursday, December 10, 2015
Coheed & Cambria - Here To Mars
I have no idea how this didn't come to my head two days ago. Embarrassing. Anyway, am I the only one who thinks that lyric videos have been done to death? This video would actually be pretty cool without the damn letters flying across the screen.
Wednesday, December 9, 2015
Tyondai Braxton - Boids
Bonus triplet. Former Battles dude Tyondai is now doing weird 'solo' stuff. Enjoy.
Tuesday, December 8, 2015
Monday, December 7, 2015
Deftones - Digital Bath
It's Monday... right? Yup, confirmed. It's Monday. Let's do metal. Surprised I haven't posted anything by these cats in ages, but then the new album isn't coming until early 2016. Really looking forward to it. This is one of my favs.
Sunday, December 6, 2015
The Icarus Line - El Sereno
So I was trying to figure out why the YouTube videos didn't have the player controls anymore in my embeds. Turns out I've been putting in the wrong code since August. Oops. I went back and fixed it. What a dummy. I think the blog could use a facelift. I'll start thinking about that. Maybe it'll get one for Christmas. I like this video. Cool concept.
Saturday, December 5, 2015
Green Velvet & Riva Starr - Robots
Ima be proactive and schedule this one. It's Saturday. Let's boogie.
Friday, December 4, 2015
Velvet Revolver - Fall To Pieces
Scott Weiland is gone. It's not a surprise, was just a matter of time. Still sad. One of my favorite performers in the grunge days. Let's sing him out.
Thursday, December 3, 2015
Tom Waits - All The World Is Green
Back again. A bit (a lot) earlier today. I feel we should do some more relaxing before the weekend arrives, because that looks like it could be hectic. No reason really, but it's December which invariably means mayhem 24/7. I'm looking forward to March.
Wednesday, December 2, 2015
Tuesday, December 1, 2015
Robert T - Cirrus
Running a little late today. Here's a really cool live performance on a whole whack of funky blip and bloop machines. Throw on your headphones and give it a whirl.
Monday, November 30, 2015
Psy - Daddy
I'll be honest, I haven't even listened to either one of these songs yet. I just skimmed through the videos on mute for like 30 seconds and thought "what the hell". I'm guessing they're both terrible, but the action is just too ridiculous to pass up.
Sunday, November 29, 2015
Saturday, November 28, 2015
Dan Mangan & Blacksmith - Vessel
Not sure how I feel about this album. It's different. Some strong parts, some less so. Overall, not bad. Potential there for more collaboration in the future. Cool video anyway.
Hayden - Bad As They Seem
Kind of slightly sour about this one. Really wanted to post 'Trees Lounge' but for some dumb reason Hardwood Records doesn't want me to share their video with the world. Whatevs. Check out the link anyway. And watch this one too. Weirdos.
Seven Mary Three - Water's Edge
Only one yesterday, so let's make it a triple today. This one goes out to J-Ryze.
Friday, November 27, 2015
Thursday, November 26, 2015
Wednesday, November 25, 2015
Junkhouse - Burned Out Car
Not sure why but I had this song in my head today. Tom Wilson is a massively underrated song writer. That's Sarah McLachlan on the backing vocals too.
Tuesday, November 24, 2015
Pearl Jam & Neil Young - Rockin' In The Free World
I'm running a little late today but I've just about made it! This might not be the best rendition of this song in existence, but it's pretty frickin' epic. 67 years young and the old fella's still given 'er. I also love the video concept. Bet all those videographers were wishing they were rockin out instead though.
Monday, November 23, 2015
Sunday, November 22, 2015
Caribou - Back Home
Right. Looks like I'm back in a bit of a rhythm. Pretty similar to the music scene in 2015 I think. Slow start, but there's been some solid releases in the final quarter. Better late than never? Let's pick up the tempo slightly. Two songs a day for the next week?
Sounds like a plan, Stan.
Saturday, November 21, 2015
Kill Chicago - The Grey
Live at the Recordery. This is Brad Perry and Evan Hanson's new spot. Groovy.
Friday, November 20, 2015
David Bowie - Blackstar
New album out in January. This is the first track. It's out there. Can't wait to hear more.
Thursday, November 19, 2015
Wednesday, November 18, 2015
The Tea Party - The Ocean At The End
Heard these guys were putting out a new album, and then somehow it completely passed me by. Seems like it did the same to most people. It's pretty decent actually, not as strong as their early stuff but to be fair it's hard to live up to perfection. This one is obviously very Pink Floyd. That's not a bad thing by any means.
Tuesday, November 17, 2015
Monday, November 16, 2015
Sunday, November 15, 2015
Saturday, November 14, 2015
Friday, November 13, 2015
Thursday, November 12, 2015
Wednesday, November 11, 2015
The Fallen of World War II
I'm back from a long sojourn and a week's recovery. Gotta make up for lost time. First, a little history lesson. Because it's that day.
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