An Indie Christmas pt. 1

For the next couple of days I'll be sharing some holiday/winter music.  Today's selection is Beach House's "I Do Not Care For The Winter Sun."  I hope everyone has A great Holiday!

They Play With Rackets

Tennis is the band that will save you from your winter melancholy.  Their breezy rock will take you to the beach and back a few decades.  All of this coastal sound from a group from Colorado... Denver and Sunshine do have a lot of history together I suppose. Tennis is very comparable to Girls, maybe West Coast, or bands of that nature.  Easy going, sunny rock. These two tracks, "Marathon," and "Take Me Somewhere," are the obvious faves.  Enjoy!
Tennis by TILLS

S Dot

I am a fan of S. Carey by default, due to his membership in Bon Iver.  The Justin Vernon backer has been touring for some time and has produced a decent solo album.  He recently has recorded some great videos of which I feel the need to share.  The first two videos are songs from his album All We Grow ("Acton," "Mothers," and "In The Dirt"). The third video is one of my all time favorite blogotheque videos.  It is an a capella version of "For Emma, Forever Ago" (sorry for the ad at the beginning). This is when I first became a fan of Sean Carey.  You will see what I mean at the 3 minute mark.  Enjoy!

City of Music: S. Carey from MPLS.TV on Vimeo.

In My Room: S Carey "In the Dirt" from Yours Truly on Vimeo.

#93.3 - BON IVER - For Emma, Forever Ago
Uploaded by lablogotheque. - Watch more music videos, in HD!

Mighty Little Album Of The Week

Lord Huron was sent to me from a good friend about a month ago (good looks DJ Cakes).  I have been waiting to review his EP, Mighty, for some time.  Well, today is the day.  This album is serious. Lord Huron is serious.  For someone to only have two EP's to their name (both great by the way) to make such great music is astounding.  Lord Huron will either be largely successful with an entire LP or will fall amazingly short.  The sound created is of a Yeasayer edgy-world blended with a Grizzly Bear soft-echo. It is fantastic combination.  The Middle Eastern, African, island, folk will make your mind drift to its most relaxed state.  I urge you to listen.  Thanks to bandcamp, the first track "Mighty," is free for download (as is "Into the Sun" which is off his first EP Into The Sun.  You'll have to go to the website to get that one).  My personal favorite comes at the end; "When Will I See You Again."  Enjoy Lord Huron.

From Toronto, With Love

The Russian Futurists win the most recent Song of the Moment.  Granted, "Hoeing Weeds Sowing Seeds" has been out for a month of two, every time I hear it, it puts me in a good mood.  Their newest album, where this song comes from is called The Weight's On The Wheels.  I supplied you with a link to purchase as it's hard one to find.  Overall, the album is decent, with a couple tracks that are on par with "Hoeing Weeds Sowing Seeds," but not much better.  I hope you enjoy and have a great weekend!
The Russian Futurists - Hoeing Weeds Sowing Seeds by TILLS

Gimmie Some McMorrow

Ireland can produce some big name artists. For example, Van Morrison, U2, and Damien Rice to name a few (maybe you've heard of them?).  Unfortunately, James Vincent McMorrow may not reach those artist's large status, but I think he deserves some recognition.  He is up and coming and has a talent that maybe could reach the level of Damien.  Their styles are similar, in that they are mainly acoustic guitar/folk type singers.  JVM is making his way to the states and currently has a self-titled EP out.  Below is the EP, which includes the solid track that drew me to JVM, "If I Had a Boat." If you enjoy James Vincent McMorrow, JVM's full length album, Early In The Morning, is due out in January (you can currently buy it in Ireland). Enjoy! James Vincent McMorrow EP by partisanpr

I'll Have Another Iron & Wine

Kiss Each Other Clean is Iron and Wine's new album, which is due out in January.  It is the first album with Warner Brothers and hopes to be the best.  Sam is back with the full band that he performed with on the his last album, The Shepherd's Dog. A few songs have been released, but "Walking Far From Home," may be the best (in my opinion).  The start of 2011 is proving to be a great time for music.  Enjoy the new track!
Iron & Wine - Walking Far From Home by TILLS

Triple D

As we await the release of the new album by super group, Middle Brother, I thought it would be a good time to take a look at some of their best. Also, TILLS hasn't posted a great video in a while, and all of these fit that bill. Enjoy Deer Tick, Dawes, and Delta Spirit... as well as Middle Brother.




Delta Spirit "Bushwick Blues" (Waits Room Version) from Yours Truly on Vimeo.

Album Of The Week

Jonsi's solo album Go is one of my favorite albums of the year.  I was lucky enough to have seen his live show for this album, which was incredible.  Now, everyone can see it.  Jonsi has just released a live version of Go and also a dvd of his show.  The show is one of the most visually stunning concerts I have every seen.  The back drop and stage were designed specifically for this show and display various scenes that seem so real.  I am not doing it justice in my description.  It is something you have to see for yourself.  I am sharing the album with you, but if you want the dvd there is a link at the bottom to order it or you can get it from Jonsi's website.  Also, watch the trailer for the album/dvd to get a taste of Go Live.  Enjoy!

'go live' preview from Jónsi on Vimeo.
Jonsi - Go Live by TILLS

Tell Me She's Back

Jessica Lea is back and officially on a big record label.  Her new album Tell Me is due out in February, but its first single is floating around out there and is worth a listen.  If you were a fan of With Blasphemy So Heartfelt, by the sound of "Our Hearts Are Wrong," Tell Me will be right up your musical alley. "Our Hearts Are Wrong" has that same melancholy, passion that her other tracks feature and make so addicting. This news should give you something to look forward to in that dreary month of February.  Enjoy Jessica's new track.
Jessica Lea Mayfield - Our Hearts Are Wrong by TILLS

Gold Is At An All Time High

Well, Dirty Gold that is.  This young band from San Diego doesn't have much to show aside from two great tracks.  It's definitely a band with potential.  You really can't help but enjoy the chilled out nature of their music.  Here are a couple tracks and their video for "California Sunshine."
Dirty Gold by Dirty Gold
Dirty Gold - California Sunrise from Panaframe ▲ on Vimeo.

Need Moral Advice?

Free Moral Agents are here to help with Control This.  This group of individuals from LA/Long Beach is led by Mars Volta Keyboardist, Isaiah Owens.  They are a rock, blues-ish, psychedelic, electronic band. Mendee Ichakawa truly leads the way with her amazing vocals.  Her sound rivals some of the best, strong lead females like Karen O and Alison Mosshart.  Not really comparing these ladies' voices, more so their involvement in their bands.  They tend to be the face.  Mendee should and could be that.  The difference for Free Moral Agents, is that Mendee is more of an instrument than the star. In any case, I am posting three of their better tracks.  "Sound At Sea" is a solid example of what's on the album, and "Ageless" is a near 8 minute epic track you can just get lost in.  The third track, "Little Trouble Girl," is a Sonic Youth cover.  I dig the use of a choir of children.
Check out Free Moral Agents!
Free Moral Agents by TILLS

So-Cal Royalty

The Peach Kings are somewhat of a new band.  The duo is originally from San Fran, but call LA their home these days.  They won best unsigned band from Alternative Apparel over the summer and have been making music and touring since.  Both Paige and Steve sing, but Paige is the highlight.  Her earthy, soulful voice, similar to Lauren Hill, almost echoes an Etta James/Billie Holiday type.  I am not saying shes the next soul queen, but she's got a great sound.  Their music is more of an alternative, acoustic rock.  Not all of their stuff is fantastic.  It's their slower songs, where Paige can wail a bit, that are successful.  These are the ones I have posted below.  Take a listen to "Wooden Heart" and "By Your Side." Also watch their video for "Back In The Day."  You'll really get the whole range of Paige Wood
The Peach Kings by TILLS

1/2 Album of the Week

I am foregoing Album of the Week yet again (sort of), but for a good reason.  The reason is Conner Youngblood and the release of his new EP, Colored Ghost.  He released his first full length album about a year ago now, and recently has been releasing new material. Conner has a smooth way about him.  He describes his music as bluegrass/club/indie.  I love that. It is definitely a unique sound.  You'll find that the bluegrass resides more in his earlier work and transforms into the club-ish, dubstep sound on his more recent music. I am sharing with you some of the EP and his newest singles "Monsters" and "Girl Hair."  If you enjoy, I posted a link to buy his first album and the new EP.
Monsters by Conner Youngblood
Colored Ghost by Conner Youngblood
Like an Iceberg by Conner Youngblood
Girl Hair by Conner Youngblood

Hip-Hop Friday Returns

Of course, this song is Kanye influenced.  (I can't help it, his hand is in everything).  Kanye produced this B.o.B. track almost a year ago on B.o.B's first mix tape.  Well, "Fuck The Money" is back, only this time featuring Wiz Khalifa, who is blowing up in internet land. The beat clearly makes this song, which is why I give credit to Kanye.  The lyrics are also pretty enjoyable, giving all of us some great advice. Enjoy "Fuck The Money."
B.o.B. - Fuck The Money (feat. Wiz Khalifa) by TILLS

Song Of The Moment

Of Oceans is more of an ambient style band.  Great relaxing sound.  Definitely Song of the Moment material.  In "In Love, Not Limbo," there is some semi-clear sampling of Karen O's voice from "Maps" by Yeah Yeah Yeahs and Jonathan Boulet's "A Community Service Announcement." I mean, I'm not absolutely sure, but as I was listening, I was expecting to hear, "Wait, they don't love you like I love you." Not that it matters, the song is awesome.  I hope you enjoy Of Oceans, "In Love, Not Limbo."
Of Oceans - In Love, Not Limbo by TILLS

I'm Awake!

Not sure you would have ever put money on The Roots and John Legend covering an Arcade Fire track.  I mean, I wouldn't have.  Well, we would have lost.  If there were Cover Song Awards (The CSA's), this would have to be cover song of the year.  The Arcade Fire song, "Wake Up," is a future classic in my book.  It is an intense, emotional, sing-a-long.  Having one of my favorite groups cover one of my favorite songs, by another favorite group, is pretty mind blowing for me.  John Legend kills the emotion needed to sing this song and The Roots do what they do.  I don't have much more to say about it, except, you will like this.
John Legend & The Roots - Wake Up (Arcade Fire Cover) by TILLS

Under The Hood: An Interview with Hoodie Allen

Back in September, I blogged about Hoodie Allen and his most recent mix tape, Pep Rally (see "It's Hoodie, It's Hoodie").   I have sung his praises and recommended his music to anyone and everyone I could. I truly believe he has what it takes to be big time.  Recently, I had the greatest pleasure of interviewing Hoodie.

The Idea Lingers Lately Still and Hoodie Allen

                                                                        11/28/10

TILLS:  You have such a unique, fresh take on life and rhyming. You capture the young twenty-something outlook perfectly.  So, what's your deal?  Parents in the music scene? Church choir participant?  Typical high school lifestyle (Degrassi) or were you already making moves musically (Glee)? 

HOODIE:  Well I appreciate that a lot man! My mom was a singer but outside of that, the desire to do music came completely from myself, I was writing songs when I was 10 years old in my Dad's apartment so it has always been something I naturally felt inclined to do. I've been doing all of this for a long time while going to school and being otherwise a normal kid so perhaps it's somewhere between Degrassi and Glee haha. 

TILLS:  How long have you known this is what you were going to do? 

HOODIE:  I've known since an early age that music was the thing that drove me more than anything else. I was a good student and enjoyed school and learning a lot, but to now have the opportunity to get my music in front of so many people has been incredible.

TILLS:  I'm not big on the Long Island hip-hop scene.  I've been there few times.  So, I'm picturing you getting started in the basement of some small mansion on a culdesac, with parents yelling down the stairs - LL cool J style, but less gangster.  How far off am I?

HOODIE:  Haha, that's kind of a stretch! Firstly, the history of great MC's coming from Long Island is abundant--from Chuck D to Busta Rhymes, De La Soul, EPMD, I can go on for a while. I am fortunate to have grown up in a cool environment like Long Island but it's really just normal suburbia, no Hamptons life for me, 

TILLS:  You master the pop-culture scene in your music.  What's your secret? Us magazine? TiVo?

HOODIE:  I love pop culture--I've always been fascinated with television and film and I've just committed a lot of things to memory that when I throw in a reference or two while rapping adds a little bit of who I am and my experiences into the music.

TILLS:  Has Hype Machine given you any kickbacks for all your free advertising? I Love hype machine by the way.  It must have felt incredible to show up on their "Popular" list that first time?

HOODIE:  It was surreal for sure. I absolutely set out with no intentions of how my record was going to be received. For it to have flourished on a site that I always visit as a listener is wild to me.  

TILLS:  Straight forward - Who are your hip-hop/rap influences?

HOODIE:  Andre 3000, A Tribe Called Quest, Black Thought, Reflection Eternal, Jay -Z 

TILLS:  Do you do your own beats?  You reference "RJ." Is he your DJ? 

HOODIE:  RJF is my boy, he is responsible for producing the songs on Pep Rally with me. He also is the DJ at the shows so if you come to a Hoodie concert, you are likely to meet him, 

TILLS:  You are an internet sensation.  So, what’s the plan from here on out?  Make millions of dollars and buy a piece of the Jets?

HOODIE:  Might take a little bit more than that to buy the Jets haha. My plan is to continue to make forward progress, make great music, get in front of fans and take everyday as an opportunity to get better. 

TILLS:  You clearly are having success.  Who do you thank for where you are right now?

HOODIE:  My fans, friends, and family for supporting and believing in me. RJF for being my partner in crime on the beats.  

___________________________________________________________________________________
Thank you Hoodie Allen for you time, honest answers, and your fantastic positivity. 

Remember, Pep Rally is still available at Hoodie Allen's Soundcloud page.  If you haven't heard it, I know I've posted it before, but for good measure, here is Pep Rally once again:

The Pep Rally Mixtape by HoodieAllen

Album Of The Week

The Phoenix foundation is yet another band that has popped up on my radar that is from New Zealand.  The kiwis must have some new kind of music promotion going on.  In any case, New Zealand is shipping out good stuff.  The Phoenix Foundation's newest album, Buffalo is their first full length album.  You'll appreciate their easy going style.  Clearly, I have been digging this style of music recently.  It's an indie alt-folk with a sprinkling of electronic.  My recommendation is to skip to "Buffalo," and listen through the album.  If you can't, definitely get through to "Pot," and then jump to "Wonton."  Also, if you want to take a look at them, there is a pretty decent video from some place called the Slow Boat.  If you like The Phoenix Foundation you can donate to their their cause and buy their album in the player below.  Unfortunately, it's not a tax write off.  Enjoy Buffalo.

School House Rock

Pitchfork TV should be on TV.  It would only make sense to have an awesome music television channel, since one doesn't exist.  I guess it may not matter; TV is dying anyway.  Perusing Pitchfork's videos recently, I came across this amazing Menomena video/live performance of "TAOS." Watch and enjoy Menomena take over a classroom with this kick-ass song.  Have a great weekend!

Thanks

A quick song for Thanksgiving.  No, I did not choose this song because it says the words "thank you" in it.  Well, maybe a little bit.  In actuality, it's a really great, feel-good song.  Hey Rosetta is a cool band from Northeast Canada.  They may not be a super star band, but they have a few great songs and a cool video on Blogotheque. "A Thousand Suns," comes from their latest album Into Your Lungs.  Hope you enjoy.  And I thank you so much.  Happy Thanksgiving!
Hey Rosetta - A Thousand Suns by Tills

Song Of The Moment

Amy Seeley new song "Mile Marker" is a bit on the somber serious side, but it's beautiful, so you make it through. This may be your style, it may not, but you should definitely check out her website.  Here she shares three songs off her new album, Plum Coulee.  If you really like her, the album comes out November 30th.  Enjoy "Mile Marker."
Amy Seeley - Mile Marker by Tills

Skinny Love, Phat Beat

Justin Vernon quickly became one of my all time favorite artists when his band Bon Iver came about a few years ago. For Emma, For Ever Ago has got to be one of the best albums I've ever heard.  Everything he touches, from Volcano Choir, to Gayngs, to all of his features on various albums, is gold. After seeing him on the Kanye album, I thought it would be appropriate to share an amazing remix of his song "Skinny Love." If you don't know Bon Iver, get to.  Enjoy the track!
Bon Iver - Skinny Love (Das Kapital Rerub) by Tills

Album Of The Week

I'm going mainstream on this week's album of the week.  Kanye West's newest, My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy, comes out on Tuesday.  I have had the privilege of listening to this album for the past week.  After 808, I wasn't sure what to expect from Kanye.  That was his most out-there work, and overall, it wasn't that great.  I give Kanye a lot of respect though for always going in a new direction.  Here, he does it again.  He doesn't go back to his pop style he started with, or his auto-tune heartbreak.  In his 5th album, he delves into some old-school style, and like the titled states, "dark" hip-hop.  He invites some big names to help out, from Jay-Z to Bon Iver. Most tracks have already been leaked, so you may have heard many of them, but the album played as a whole is great.  Enjoy My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy.  (You may be able to download it here)
Kanye West - My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy Check by zibalba56

Animality

Miike Snow is probably the most remixed/covered artist of the past year or more.  The album Miike Snow's most popular song is probably "Animal."  Search for a remix of "Animal" and you will come up with tons of tracks.  I'm not huge into remixes, but I do love covers.  For the weekend, here are my favorite covers, a cool remix, and the original.  I'm not sure which cover I favor more, Javier's or Sky's.  Sky is something like 17 years old, so maybe I favor hers.  In any case enjoy!
Animal by Tills

Dawes-ome

This is a band I recently stumbled upon. Dawes is a band from North Hills, California.  Their most recent album, North Hills, is well over a year old.  I wish I had found them well before this, but what's good is there is hope for a new album soon.  They bring an Eagles-ish, southern, indie/folk rock to a music scene that lacks this easy going, classic sound.  I'll let their music speak for the rest of this blog.  Enjoy some tracks off North Hills.
Dawes - North Hills by Tills

A Good Natured Cover

The Good Natured, I'm not familiar with.  However, as you may know, I love Sufjan Stevens. The Good Natured recently covered "For The Widows In Paradise...," off of Greetings From Michigan.  I have a lot of respect for bands that attempt to cover obscure, amazing songs. This is one of those cases.  Enjoy The Good Natured's cover and Sufjan's original.
For The Widows In Paradise by Tills

It Must Be The "&" Sign

What is it about new bands from other countries nailing Americana Folk Rock.  We have seen Mumford & Sons do it and they're from the UK.  Now the Aussies are coming in.  Boy & Bear, in my opinion, have the same staying power as Mumford & Sons and I am excited to see them come to the states.  They have a great EP out entitled With Emperor Antarctica.  Here are 4 of the 5 tracks from that EP.  I hope you enjoy.
Boy & Bear by Tills

Album Of The Week

This album is not too new, but deserves some praise.  Good Old War's second full length album, Good Old War, came out in June, but just recently was recommended to me by a knowledgeable music-head.  The enjoyment here sort of goes along with the band's name.  Good Old War supplies, simply, good old indie-folk-rock.  Almost, indie-easy listening.  I have been listening to this album for a couple weeks and find myself enjoying the album from top to bottom.  They won't win you over with any shock value or new and unique sounds.  They are going to get you with there up-beat, fun, sing-along-able style.  If you enjoy the Good Old War, head over to their website where you can listen to all of their music and download it at a price you name (with limits). Hope you enjoy Good Old War's Good Old War
Good Old War's Website

Back In The Neighborhood

I don't love everything Matt & Kim do, but I damn sure love some of their songs.  They have the recipe on making a killer catchy song.  Their newest album, Sidewalks, has its fair share.  I heard "Block After Block" the other day and it brought me right back to when I first heard "Daylight."  It's not as fantastic, but its a good track.  Enjoy the song, and check out Matt & Kim's new album.
Matt & Kim - Block After Block by Tills

Back, A Month Early

The Decemberists have been one of my favorite bands for a long time.  They hit a serious road block with me when they released The Hazards Of Love.  That was by far their worst album.  This was their attempt at a sort of rock-opera, theme style, album.  It didn't work.  They are getting ready to release The King Is Dead, which I'm hoping goes back to their good-old ways or at least in a new direction.  From what I have heard so far, it seems like that is the case.  Thank God!  Here is the first song they are sharing with the public, "Down By The Water," and a few videos of Colin Meloy playing some of the new songs and a classic, "Crane Wife 3."
The Decemberists - Down By The Water by Tills

Bill, Ted, and Marnie

So this may seem like something straight out of Bill and Ted's Excellent Adventure, but Marnie Stern is way more legit as an artist.  I mean, that doesn't sound like a compliment since Keanu Reeves and the blond dude aren't real musicians, but Marnie is a serious guitarist.  "For Ash" is one of her newer tracks.  Give it a couple plays.  You may not think you like this style of music, but it will grow on you. Link to Marnie on Myspace
Marnie Stern - For Ash by Tills

I Can Still Hear Them

The Phantom Band just released The Wants.  When I heard this band, I wasn't blown away.  They have a few good songs, but what intrigued me was their mix of sounds that I have heard before.  They remind me of a UK/Scottish Gomez.  A Folk/Rock band that has a few members that sing and also have moments when they just jam.  There is a definite resemblance to Twilight Sad.  This may be due to the link this band has to Glasgow.  There are also shades of People In Planes, which is an obscure band, but one that has a unique dark electronic/rock sound.  At some points I heard Wintersleep and Snow Patrol.  I guess my point is, this band has many sounds, and you should probably like one of them.  Here are a few tracks off The Wants.  I recommend "Walls," but try listening to all of the tracks, even the 8 minute "The None of One."
The Phantom Band by Tills

Album of the Week

In retrospect, I have been a little too judgie on new albums of the week.  Clearly, there have been good albums.  One's that I have at least given you samples of.  My new direction will be to share more and let you decide on whether or not the album, as a whole, is good.
For this week I am giving praise to Pepper Rabbit. A young band from California that is on track to be your new favorite opening act.  Their new album Beauregard is well crafted.  Their sound is a folk/alternative/rock.  Your typical new, indie-rock sound.  At points they remind me of Morning Benders, especially on their most touted single, "Older Brother."  I enjoy their ability to change sounds with seamless precision.  If you need to skip around when listening to this album, at least listen to the opener "Clarinet Song," and then skip down to "Older Brother" and finish the album to the end.  The back half is pretty solid.  Enjoy Beauregard.
Pepper Rabbit - Beauregard by Tills

Small Black

I'm glad you noticed this was week two of no album of the week.  This was my closest contestant, and I still debate whether or not the album, as a whole, is awesome.  I really love Small Black, and New Chain is solid work for them, but there are some down points on the album.  These are my go to's from New Chain, which got a lot of play this week.  If you are looking to have something to relax and listen to,  this is your pick.  "Goons" may wake you up from your trance, but it's a good change.  Make sure you listen to the whole album if you like these selections. Also, Pitchfork has some cool POV videos of a live show of theirs.  Check out the link to "Photojournalist" and the rest of their show:  Photojournalist Video

Small Black - New Chain by Tills

Up In The Aer

So, I don't know much about this new band Aer.  They are from Massachusetts, and make music.  I am excited to see where they go.  They have a cool hip-hop/rock/reggae/electronic chill sound.  I'm not sure if they have any other songs floating around out there, but the one I did find is pretty cool.  Enjoy "Water On The Moon."
Aer - Water On The Moon by Tills

Disney 2.0

I have never seen the Disney movie Snow White. So, when I heard this song by Labyrinth Ear I only appreciated it for its catchy sound and cool lyrics.  Come to find out, this is, essentially, the main song from the movie.  Ms. White singing in the forest over a well which echoes her voice.  In any case, this made the song that much cooler in my mind.  This may make it that much less cooler in yours, but it's worth a listen. If you like the Labyrinth Ear's style, I added a link to their Soundcloud page where you can listen and download their tracks for free. Link to Labyrinth Ear
Snow White by Labyrinth Ear

Everyone's Gonna Love You

Cee-lo Green has got to slow down.  He is just all over the place.  With Gnarls Barkley, to his new solo album, and now with an amazing cover of "No One's Gonna Love You," by Band of Horses, Cee-lo may have a heart attack.  I mean, I'm concerned.  Regardless, I love this guy and love what he's doing.  You will definitely enjoy this cover song!
Cee-Lo Green - No One's Gonna Love You (Band of Horses Cover) by Tills

Song of the Moment

This band sounds like bad news. However, Dog Is Dead has an amazing track that needs to be heard. This young band from the UK has some serious potential. They don't have a full album out yet and haven't toured outside of England, but be on the lookout. Here is their best track, in my opinion.
Dog Is Dead - Glockenspiel Song by Tills

Friend of God

Theophilus London has friends in high places, or at least that's what his name implies.  He does have some friends in high musical places.  I first heard of Theophilus on The xx's cover/remix of  "You've Got The Love" by Florence and the Machine.  The original version is great, and the cover which features the slowed down style of The xx and the chilled out voice of Theophilus, is a phenominal song.  They work perfectly together.  I then came across Theophilus on the new Maximum Balloon album, where his song is the lead track.  Theophilus has recently released a mix-tape entitled  I Want You, which is a mix of 80's and Indie rock mixes.  The overall style is of a subdued nature, with sparks of 80's flare. Here are a few tracks from the mix-tape (which includes a cover of Tweet's "Oops") and a The xx's cover of "You've Got The Love."
Theophilus London by Tills

Persephone's Favorite

You should know Pomegranates.  This young band from Cincinnati has been able to take notes from some great bands and at the same time mix in their own musical direction.  Comparatively, they have shades of Ben Gibbard's delivery on your favorite Death Cab song, with a musical style that blends a sophisticated aura of electronic-ambience and a youthful punk rock a la Tokyo Police Club.   Their latest album is entitled One of Us.  "Create Your Own Reality" is the only track from that album I have posted.  The other two tracks are from earlier releases.  If you dig these guys, make sure you check out all of their work.  Enjoy Pomegranates.
Pomegranates by Tills

Take One For The Team

Song of the Moment!  Found these guys this week and have thoroughly loved their music.  I may be late to the game with One For The Team, but you know what they say.  I added "I Got Tamed" to songs of the moment as it was my favorite and deserves to be in the list. "Best Suporting Actress" is below, also worth a listen.  Both tracks are off their 2010 release, Ghosts.  Enjoy One for the Team!
One For The Team by Tills

Jose and Friends

You may have noticed that there was no album of the week this week.  That's because I didn't find one out there, or it didn't find me.  Hopefully by next week something great will come along.  I figured I would need to highlight some band though.  Although I just referenced last week as not being a good one for music, Junip is a band worth knowing about.  If you are a fan of Jose Gonzalez, you are a fan of Junip. This is one of Jose's side projects.  Instead of a focus on acoustic guitar, he employs an entire band to play with him.  Granted, this album came out a few weeks ago, it only really caught on for me recently.  I judged the album at first as not being what I knew from Jose Gonzalez.  I mean, how can you compare anything to his earlier work.  His cover of "Heartbeats," by The Knife, may be one of the best cover songs ever.  His quiet sound is not lost though. In Junip, there is just more going on in the background.  I picked a few songs worth listening to.  Of course, if you like them, make sure you check out the album. (I included "Heartbeats" just for fun).
Junip - Fields by Tills

Harmonize

On Saturday I enjoyed a great live performance from Local Natives in Boston.  My second time seeing them was as good as the first.  That's because they are flawless live.  They have been touring for a serious amount of time, which may explain their perfection on stage.  The thing that makes them so good is there ability to all sing together as one voice.  It is really remarkable.  It's not often you see a band sing 95% of their songs together.  And for a live show, this inherently makes the audience sing along with them.  This is one of the main reasons I didn't capture any video from this show.  If it wasn't me singing as loud as I possibly could, it was the person next to me.  But don't be disappointed thinking I wouldn't supply you with something to watch.  This could technically be a double post, because as news worthy the Local Natives are, the website Baeblemusic.com is just as notable.  I stumbled on this site last week and it blew me away.  They have amazing, high quality video from tons of concerts, which are mainly indie bands.  I'm sharing the Local Natives show with you so you can get the idea of seeing them live (actually one song, but see their whole set at Baeblemusic).  Make sure you check out Baeblemusic.

"Let'sTake Some E!"

The patterns is forming.  Friday's are becoming my hip-hop go to for the week.  This transitions perfectly into today's post.  E-dubble is a rapper from Maryland (B-More!) who is blowing up.  His specialty is releasing a "Friday Freestyle," well, each Friday.  "Get on Board" is a track from a couple Fridays ago, and is one of his best. His myspace page features all of his tracks, and is worth a look/listen. You'll dig E's commanding voice which slides on a smooth, yet thoughtful, delivery.  Enjoy the Friday hip-hop song of the week, and if you want more head over to E-dubble Myspace.
E-dubble - Get on Board by Tills

New Song of the Moment

Telephoned is calling out Yeasayer. They have ambitiously covered one of the best Yeasayer songs. Taking on the uptempo dance track "O.N.E."  The cover comes up smooth and easy to listen to.  Their recipe was simple.  Take a chilled out reggae beat (by Gyptian) and loop it over the original track.  If you're looking for another track to relax to, consider adding this one.  Listen to Telephoned's cover in Songs of the Moment. Also, don't forget to check out Songs of the Moment periodically, for a new track I've recently found and loved.

Lack of Magnetism

So, you are going through Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros withdrawal? Well there is an antidote to your pain out there.  Alexander, of the Magnetic Zeros (or the more well known: "Jade?," "Alexander?" "Do you remember that day you fell out of my window?..." - Lyrics from the song "Home" for those of you that are lost) has been in the midst of making a solo album.  His new song "Truth" has been getting a lot of buzz.  So no more missing Edward Sharpe.  Here is Alexander's new song.  Enjoy!
Alexander Ebert - Truth by Tills

Roots in a Grizzly Bear

We Are Trees is slowly taking a front seat in my iPod playlist.  The band from Virginia, led by James Nee, just released an EP entitled Boyfriend.  This has been, and will continue to be, a very popular blogged about band.  They are compared to Grizzly Bear and Department of Eagles, or more specifically Daniel Rossen (of Grizzly Bear and Department of Eagles).  I could see We Are Trees opening for some great bands this fall, and then releasing a stellar full length album.  This is definitely some of the better music that has come out this year.  Take a listen to Boyfriend.  You won't be disappointed.
We Are Trees, Boyfriend EP by Tills

Mr. Stevens Opus / Album of the Week

A few posts ago, I reviewed Sufjan Stevens latest EP, All Delighted People.  If you recall, I didn't give it a stellar review.  It was very difficult to do, as I have much respect and love for Sufjan.  I was worried that when The Age of Adz was released, I would be disappointed. All in all, I was not overly impressed.  I listened to The Age of Adz for over a week, and couldn't find the inspiration I usually do from a Sufjan Stevens album.  However, throughout this week of analyzing his lyrics and new genre of music (sort-of), I neglected to listen to the last track on the album called "Impossible Soul."  I didn't avoid this song for any other reason than it is 25 minutes long.  I am not afraid of a nearly album length song, but I knew that it would need my total, undivided attention.  I had not been ready to give that attention until this past weekend.  This is where everything changed for me and The Age of Adz.  This song alone makes this album great.  Thus, bringing this album up from a middle-of-the-road album to Album of the Week.  As for "Impossible Soul," it may be Sufjan's best work.  His skill in combining all of his musical abilities, from folk, to electronic, to soul, to rock, to classical, all in one song is mind boggling.  If you have never heard of Sufjan Stevens before, and listen to this song, you will immediately understand why he is one of the greatest musical artists of the past decade.  Please enjoy "Impossible Soul," (if you can find the time) as well as The Age of Adz.
Go To Album Of The Week

Sufjan Stevens - Impossible Soul by Tills

F*ck Everyone

Not sure if you heard "Fuck You" by Cee-Lo this summer.  I have to admit, it reminded me of the good 'ol days of hip-hop.  The college scene must have loved or is still loving this song.  Well, Cee-Lo just met his competition in Anjulie.  This Canadian born singer-songwriter has remade "Fuck You;" a girls version.  Pretty funny, but good too.  Figured Friday, would be the best time to post about these two songs.  Enjoy both versions this weekend!

Fuck Everyone by Tills

Two of My Favorite Things

The Naked and Famous is a new band out of New Zealand.  I first heard of them from a single they released called "Young Blood."  It's not my typical style of music.  It's more punk/pop rock.  Sometimes you just have to give into some guilty pleasures.  Although, these guys are a bit more than a guilty pleasure.  They just released  Passive Me Aggressive You.  The album is pretty damn good.  I could see these guys getting some play on some TV networks or commercials.  They have comparisons to The XX or Stars (with their guy/girl duet style singing) but with a much harder, eighties edge.  I thought about these guys when pondering this weeks album of the week, but thought they may be a little too rough around the edges still.  In any case, here are some good tracks from their new album, as well as a great remix of "Young Blood,"  featuring Chiddy Bang.  I personally enjoy the Eighties-ish "Punching In a Dream" and obviously "Young Blood."

The Naked and Famous by Tills

Battle of the Three Names

Sharon Van Etten just released her album entitled Epic.  I am one for good folk/singer song-writer type.  Sharon fits right into that mold.  I heard a little from her on various blogs, but just listened to "Love More," from Epic.  Great song.  However, listening to Sharon reminded me of another folk/singer song-writer: Jessica Lea Mayfield.  Although not identical in the way they sing, they are clearly both going to battle it out in this genre for a while.  Jessica came out with one of the best albums of 2008 and one of my favorites, in With Blasphemy So Heartfelt. I expect that Jessica will release some new material in the coming year.  I truly hope she does.  Sharon is getting incredible praise for her album Epic and it's a perfect time for Jessica to bring out her best as well.  I am looking forward to these two furthering their careers.  They have the talent.  Here are a few songs from each.

Battle of the Three Names by Tills

Getting Croc'd Up

Some people have a hard time with what some call psychedelic freak folk. Granted, when listening to music by the likes of Animal Collective, for example, you might get put off by the layers of noise produced by their electronic melting pot.  The trick is to actually get passed your preconceived thought that "you don't like this kind of music," and give it a chance.  Once you experience this kind of music and set aside what your told is "good music," you come to enjoy it.  You actually kind of find it quite amazing.  Avey Tare, or David Portner, is about to release his own solo album entitled Down There.  David is hoping to achieve a bit of the success his Animal Collective running mate, Noah Lennox (aka Panda Bear), has had with his solo albums.  I have posted two of his new songs off Down There.  The first, an audio track, entitled "Heads Hammock."  The second, a video of "Lucky 1."  Now, if my introduction to this post doesn't sell you on this style of music, then maybe the actual music will.  If you're still fighting it, it's OK.  Just know that this is out there and people enjoy it.  Someday, you just might.  Enjoy Avey Tare!  (Warning:  If you are prone to seizure, be careful watching "Lucky 1")


Avey Tare - Heads Hammock by Tills


Lucky 1 from Abby Portner on Vimeo.

Is that a cover song in your jeans, or...?

Over the summer, Levi's put together a little thing called the "Pioneer Sessions."  I assume, in reference to how their clothing line, and jeans in particular, were the pioneers of american clothing. In these sessions, they invited bands to come in and remake classic songs from various decades. The bands covered songs from all types of artists; from Otis Redding to Smashing Pumpkins.  I have a few favorites that I have shared with you.  The best one, in my opinion, is The Shins cover of "Goodbye Girl."  Although, Ryan Bingham's take on "That's How Strong My Love Is," may be just as good (but that's probably because that Otis Redding song may be one of my favorite songs of all time).  Take a listen to these covers.  If you want to hear all of the "Pioneer Sessions," just click the link above.

Levi's Pioneer Sessions by Tills

Album of the Week

This is a personal pick for album of the week. Is it the best album out in the past couple weeks; maybe not. Ben Folds is someone I have been following for a long time. I love the guy; always will. Also, it's sort of a group love. Many, you know who you are, feel the same way I do. The cool thing about Lonely Avenue is that it is a colloboration of Ben Folds and Nick Hornby.  That's correct.  The author of such amazing works as High Fidelity,  An Education, and About A Boy. The pairing worked like this:  Nick wrote the lyrics and then Ben wrote the music to match.  In my honest opinion, it is a pretty beautiful and fun album.  Simple.  Not over the top.  Fans of Ben will be happy.  This is one of his better albums in a while.  Maybe he has Nick to thank for that.  You can decide for yourself.  Enjoy Lonely Avenue. Go To Album Of The Week