Over the last four years Herve has released tracks under a whole slew of monikers. Showing up all over the musical map and on all sorts of compilations he has finally pulled together two of his own. Best Of is an assortment of his most loved bits while Cheal Thrills vol 1 is a collection of the hottest tracks that have come off his Cheap Thrills label. This track caught my attention and led me to a whole bunch of great music. I suggest you too follow the beats of Herve.
[MP3] Under The Sun (Hervé’s ‘Ain’t No Sunshine’ Mix) – Hervé V Kidda
This Florida remix team took a stab at remixing a few tracks off of Lady Gaga’s The Fame Monster and gives them both a little bit of robotic make over. It’s almost a jock jams-esqu treatment. The results are curious and I can’t say I’ve made my mind up about them just yet but they held some strange appeal to me. I’d be interested to hear your thoughts.
[MP3] Love Game (InsomniACTS remix) – Lady Gaga
[MP3] Bad Romance (InsomniACTS remix) – Lady Gage
This track it a lot more chill than my usual remix postings but after listening to it one it just stuck with me. Like some kind of spacey sitcom theme song Gejius remix of Botanist’s “Florescent Microwave” is delightful on the surface and get progressively more enjoyable as the track plays on. Turns out Gejius has quite a knack for subtle electro beats – might I recommend you go get your hands on his track “Makkuro Kurosuke” – consider this but a brief intro to the world of Gejius.
When I was young I spent a lot of time in the car criss crossing the country. You see, my parents had moved from Minnesota to Montana in the 70′s to pursue their ski bum dreams and had settled there to start their family. Their families, however, remained back in Minnesota so at least once a year my sisters and I were packed into the car for the two day drive back to the Twin Cities. My mom considered this time on the road a prime opportunity to give us a dose of essential musical education. With my older sister in the passenger seat playing DJ’s assistant my Mom taught us about Phil Spector’s Wall Of Sound, the glories of the entire Beatles catalog (a history lesson that required both the trip to and from Minnesota), how to recognize a good guitar lick, the importance of backup singers etc. The memories I have of popping in Dire Straits’ Brothers In Arms once we began crossing the Rockies on our way back into the Flathead Valley or the ritual singing of “Don’t Fence Me In” as we crossed the seemingly endless plains or my mom explaining brilliance of The Allman Brother’s “Jessica” will forever be etched in my mind.
Once we moved to Minnesota we would still travel back to Montana – or out East to visit other contingents of the family – at least once a year. As we began to form our own musical tastes the music took some interesting turns leaving me with distinct associations of particular songs to one or another of our epic road trips. For example the summer we drove to Washington’s Olympic peninsula will always bring about memories of singing “Fishin In The Dark” then segueing directly into “Shoop” as dictated by my sister’s mixtape. Or the summer my Dad was at the wheel and Linda Ronstadt & Paul Simon poured from the speakers. Over the years I have found myself day dreaming of those summers when my world consisted of watching the landscape race by while trying to soak up as much as I could from the stories and music my parents were passing along. I have no doubt that my intrest in all varieties of music is rooted in those road trips and that I will most definitely subject my kids to a similar fate.
Naive Melody (Talking Heads Cover) – Arcade Fire
Walk Of Life – Dire Straits
Fishin In The Dark – Nitty Gritty Dirt Band
To Love Somebody (Bee Gees Cover) – Ray LaMontagne
You Really Got A Hold On Me (Smokey Robinson cover) – She & Him (live)
Beast Of Burden + Sweet Jane (Rolling Stones & Velvet Underground cover) – The Kooks
Don’t Fence Me In – Willie Nelson
So Right, So Wrong – Linda Ronstadt
Rave On – Buddy Holly
Jessica – The Allman Brothers
I really enjoy discovering great new acts from Philly and, despite their name, In Grenada is very much in my fair city. The foursome are about to release their first album Break and allowed me to sneak a listen in advance of its July 2nd due date. Drawing some influence from feel good new wave and melding it with a scenic pop sensibility their music is montage worthy. Dense arrangements of repetitive guitars bound to subtly building percussion give it some weight while the synths push a lighter musical agenda. The use of a harmonica on the wonderful “On The Line” provides just enough suggestion of loneliness to support the suspicion in the lyrics. The rest of the album plays out with similarly intelligent construction. I’m sharing these two nibbles with you in sincere hopes you download the full album. They’re having their album release show on July 2nd at Johnny Brenda’s with Busses and New Motels.
The idea of seeing Cyndi Lauper perform live made my inner 8 year old squee and due to a little reconfiguration of the night’s schedule I didn’t have to wait long to see Ms Lauper perform. Fronting a band of old session players that have accompanied some of the greatest soul and blues musicians she stuck primarily to material off of her new album Memphis Blues. While her stage banter was a little abrupt her voice was in top shape as she gave the appropriate swagger to the soulful set. The fellas she was fortunate to have in her band really gave the music it’s genuine richness. Lauper has maintained her voice and is smart to let it cover new territory, it would rather depressing to hear her still trying to crank out peppy pop. Instead, finding a new comfort zone allowed her to work through the material with ease. It was a great kick off for the night.
John Legend and The Roots were up next downstairs on the main stage. Playing together in support of their cover song LP – due out later this summer- the combo was a match made in funky heaven. The set opened with Legend leading the charge through a few smooth jams. He was in fine form as he worked the crowd with his flawless voice the addition of the Roots gave the music a little funkier flavor. Once Legend took his place at the keys the music began to acquire more of the hip-hop vibe the Roots are so well know for. MC Black Thought volleyed with Legend for the remainder of the set creating a well balanced mix of soul and rap. Captain Kirk Douglas stepped up for some killer solos that was truly the icing on the cake. It was a fully satisfying experience watching these masters of their trade join forces in the name of really good music.
Denver’s Nathaniel Rateliff and his band The Wheels definitely get the award for best vocal harmonies of the night. The indie folk foursome were far more lush live than I was expecting. Rateliff’s voice definitely leads the pack but the addition of some stellar stand up bass and guitar playing gave the arrangements a vibrancy not fully achieved in their recorded work. The real magic of the group’s dynamic though is the harmonies they were able to hit with amazing resonance. The music isn’t particularly fancy but like a simple chocolate cake made with the best ingredients the final product is incredibly delicious.
[MP3] Laughing (Daytrotter Session)
I have already made my love of The Mynabirds known but Friday night it was finally realized when I got to see them as the last act on my agenda for the night. Laura Burhenn’s vocal dexterity was pausing as she smoldered through her bluesier tracks and soared through her poppier bits. The lady has pipes the likes of which haven’t been given warrant to really roam free since the days of Dusty Springfield. She has assembled a band that knows how they fit in the overall sound. Never once was there an over eager guitar or pushy drum, Burhenn’s voice was at the core for the entire set. Even her own piano playing seemed to respect distance her vocals required. The two wonderful backup singers flowed in and out of the songs seamlessly and managed to give the delivery an extra sparkle. The 30-ish minute set wasn’t nearly long enough to get a full Mynabirds fix but, it’ll have to do for now.
On the whole Non-Comm’s evening events were a tightly run ship – sets were never more than 10 minutes behind and the production on both stages were fantastic. I hope next year I can take work off to give the full conference my total attention as I am a firm supporter of non-commercial radio and would love to hear what the sessions covered. But, for my first year I was thoroughly impressed by the line up and the overall positive vibe of the event.
Last week Philly’s WXPN played host to their 10th annual Non-Commercial Radio Convention an event that brought together industry folks, listeners and artists to talk shop and, of course, to rock out. With a line up befitting the celebration of the incredible endeavor that is public radio the two nights of music saw some superb acts share the stage at World Cafe Live. I was lucky enough catch some of what Non-Comm had to offer.
Retribution Gospel Choir got things jumping right off the bat with an intense set that filled with mega guitar riffs and brooding bass lines. The group, a slight reconfiguration of the group Low, flew right through their set not even slowing during a bit of mouth on guitar riffing. RGC’s reved up bluesy rock got an excellent way to get everyone in the mood for a night of fantastic music.
Alberta Cross was next to take the stage downstairs at The World Cafe. The Brooklyn band brought their brand of riff riddled southern rock to the party in full force. It’s grizzled rock that pairs wonderfully with lead singer Petter Ericson Stakee’s unfettered vocals. Watching the two guitarists toos off their power solos made the conversational nature of their playing much more apparent and brought out a new dynamic in their music. A late bit of slide guitar gave the set a nice bluesy finish.
The Gaslight Anthem took me totally by surprise. Continuing the evening’s variations on the theme of rock they tapped straight into some good old rock and roll. All four members played their instruments as if they were mere extensions of themselves leaving them to put on one hell of a show. They don’t challenge the conventions of classic rock and roll – great americana ballads set to punctuated percussion, racing guitars and rhythm baring bass lines – they just make sure they do it damn well. Their 35 minute set went by too quickly and I now I’m left wanting more, much more.
[MP3] I Do Not Hook Up (Kelly Clarkson cover)
The final act of the night, for me at least, was the experimental jam band Minus The Bear. Sticking closely to the material on their new record Omni they cut a memorable set upstairs on the cafe stage. The increased electro influence was front and center and really made the Seattle group’s music pop. All five members seemed lost in their own jammin universe only lending their spaced out sound an air of authenticity. The live delivery of Minus The Bear’s new sound solidified my approval of their evolution. It was a great end to a spectacular night of music.
Stay tuned for tomorrow’s recap of Non-Comm night 2.
This is some heavy stuff, man. It’s spacey vocals matched with thundering drums and spacey guitar riffs. It enteres your thoughts and takes your minds away to the land of day dream. Whether you find yourself nodding your head to the weightier fuzzy guitar riffs or drifting off to the dulcet vocals of Rachel Williams there is a audible intensity entirely appropriate for a band named Sleepy Suns. While their arrangements tend to build to epic resounding climaxes they are equally capable of dabbling in slower wandering pieces like their song “Lord.” Really savor this album it has a slow reveal that requires your attention but is well worth the time. They’ll be in Philly on September 7th at Blockley Pour House but, if you can’t wait til then consider heading up to Brooklyn Bowl on the 19th of this month to catch them there.
[MP3]Snow Goddess (Daytrotter Session)
The members of Mighty Tiger are operating on all cylinders on their new album Western Theater. Lush harmonies are made even more delicious with the addition of subtle percussion and carefully strummed guitars working around each other. These students of the classic multi-layered instrumental pop groups, like the Beach Boys, are doing a good job of finding their own place in a complex sonic scene by embracing unusual rhythms and key changes. The twelve tracks that make up the new release provide a feast for the ears, you’ll taste some chamber pop influence, a bit of the spice of unique instruments and marinade of retro vocal harmonies. It’s great driving music for a long road trip when you’ll truly be able to explore the depths of the music.
The Black Keys – Tighten Up – Official Video from Chris Marrs Piliero on Vimeo.
This soul tinged tune from The Black Keys is given a little visual irony when sung from the mouths of babes. It’s a silly take on playground love thats makes you feel like a kid again just watching it. Their new album Brothers is out now and you can get some free downloads over on the Black Keys’ Facebook page.
“WHIPLASH” by Sunglasses from 8000 bam bam on Vimeo.
This video is basically an 80′s workout video on acid, and I LOVE it. Sunglasses, the electro pop group from Savannah by way of New York makes crazy synth-licious tunes and the video matches their “why the hell not” attitude. If you’re looking for some new summer dance moves watch and learn.
‘night like this before’ MUSIC VIDEO from elizabeth santry on Vimeo.
Philly’s whip smart and tireless rapper Chang Chang has finally completed his EP Has The Best Friends Ever and his first video for “Night Like This Before” (starring the coolest 11 year old around LOLA) drives home how ridiculously awesome he is. Always taking a balls out creative approach to his art Chang Chang has busted outta the gates and I don’t see him and his DJ accomplice RuinIt slowing down anytime soon.
Jordan Galland
Search Party from Jordan Galland on Vimeo.
Pieced together from shots taken all over New York this new video from Jordan Galland is fun spin around town with his excellent track Search Party, the first single off the album of the same name. A filmmaker himself Galland teamed up with animator Michael Collins to create this crafty vid. It makes you want to go ride your bike and that is just what I’m about to do. You should go get Galland’s new album and bust out on the open road as well.
Veronica over a CreamTeam turned my attention to this most delectable retake of the Prince classic “I Wanna Be Your Lover.” Prince, in my humble opinion, is the righter of all wrongs; that isn’t just because I was raised in Minneapolis it’s because it is the truth. It takes a bold soul, or on this case two, to attempt to bring new character to the work of the man in purple but duo behind White Girls Lust up the disco factor and add just the right assortment of beats to make it work. It’s awesome headphones material, especially if you’re prone to music inspired burst of dancing in the streets.
[MP3] Wanna Be Your Lover (White Girl Lust’s Solid Bump Beat) – Prince
The Kids Of 88 are amongst my new favorite discoveries. The New Zealanders make fun poppin dance tracks. They describe their sound as a”whimful combination of dirt spitting kicks and feathering grit. An overdose of nightlife; the lubricated moan of spilt vodka. The hard realization of concrete and the happiness of blurry vision. An alleyway gangbang between Grandmaster Flash and The Knack.” Which pretty much nails it on the head, as does this remix of their bit “My House.” In the hands of RAC is it hard to go wrong and this one is oh so right.
[MP3] My House (RAC remix) – Kids Of 88
I’ll be honest “Om Nashi Me” isn’t my favorite piece from Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros but after hearing the digital wash Timmy The Terror gave it a blossom of appreciation was loosened in me. Pulling apart the driving beats and letting them echo in a little more space gives the chant an artier vibe . Timmy maintains the warm reverential spirit of the original just skewed slightly for a different setting, instead of tripping through fields think biking home from a night of dancing.
[MP3] Om Nashi Me (Timmy The Terror Mix) – Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros
On days like today when everyone seems to have slowed to an almost European pace and the heat is melting me into a puddle of mush all I want to do is crack a ice cold beverage and lounge around listening to southern fried, country leaning, rock. It is usually some mix of The Allman Brothers, Skynard, Drive By Truckers, Ryan Adams & The Cardinals, The Love Language and a few others. I’m always on the hunt for new acts to add to the fold and I do believe I have found just that in The Futurebirds.
The mischief makers from down Georgia way have grown from a duo that first came together in high school to a six member troop about to release their first album, Hampton’s Lullaby. Expect to find haunting pedal steel guitar, fuzzy rhythm guitars, jangley guitars and appropriately southern accented vocals. It isn’t a terribly inventive approach to the genre but the skill used to create it is what gives the album its appeal. Mark your calendar for July 13th when you can get your copy of Hampton’s Lullaby. I highly recommend you enjoy it with frosty beer in hand.
Every spring I assemble a summer playlist; it’s usually an assortment of new and old, some perfect for dancing crazily around my apartment others ideal for being as still as possible in the stultifying summer heat. All are intended to create a memorable personal soundtrack to the warmer months.
This year as I looked back over the mixes from years past and I was struck by how much they reflected where I was and what was going on in my life. The summer after my freshman year of college I waited tables and tended bar in a Mexican restaurant/ jazz club in northern Wisconsin. The soundtrack that summer had a lot of classic rock, a bit of country and lots of jazz. The soundtrack to the summer I spent studying photography & jewelry making in Florence was mainly singer songwriter and folk with some Euro pop thrown in as I gathered it along my travels. Listening to these mixes immediately takes me back to those languid days of yore.
In the haze of this reflection I decided that it would be fun to share some of the prime tracks from these old playlists. So, I’m going to do a series of summer mixes, one every other week. They’ll each have a theme and will include some new tunes thrown in to keep the lists relevant. If you have a song or two that mean summer to you please pass it along. To start off, this week’s selections are an assortment of songs intended to serve as a teaser for mixes to come. Happy summer!
Anywhere You Looked – I’m From Barcelona (PEACE project)
Multiply – Jamie Lidell
We Are The Men You’ll Grow To Love Soon – Let’s Wrestle
Unless It Kicks – Okkervil River
Whole Wide World – Wreckless Eric
Do You Realize – Flaming Lips
Are You Ready For The Floor (Hot Chip cover) Lissie Trullie
Always On My Mind (Willie Nelson Cover) – Ryan Adams
Dream City – Free Eergy (Daytrotter Session)
Moon River – Josh Ritter (Daytrotter Session)
Can’t Help Falling In Love With You – The Eels
