Slacker Sounds

Talking Heads -- "Found A Job"

2011-12-22T20:53:00.002-05:00

I love this band.

I'd Like To Say How Beautiful I Think You Are

2011-12-17T02:03:00.002-05:00

Pandora played this song for me. I like it.

She let me wear my chain and my turtleneck sweater

2011-12-06T23:02:00.004-05:00

The Lonely Island are probably the best Top 40 pop act today.

MUMFORD AND SONS - Sigh No More

2011-04-19T00:16:00.006-04:00

This debut record from Mumford & Sons was released in 2009, but I didn't stumble upon it until a month ago. I had heard of these guys, described as folk, and I thought they would be some wimpy folk band (read: boring). Then, my good friend Seppi, of the newly formed band Kid Charlemagne and the Magna Carta, sent me a listing of the songs his band would be playing at their first show. Mumford & Sons' "The Cave" was included on the list, as well as a link to the song's lyrics. Curious about this choice of a cover song, I took a look at the lyrics; I liked them a lot. A Youtube play of the song was next, followed by getting the album, and it was then that I fell in love.

This is my favorite record so far this year, regardless of when it was released. I've been listening to it as winter is turning into spring, which also brings many new possibilities to my life, and it has been a perfect soundtrack. It's a big album while keeping its feet on the ground; it's about finding new beginnings, endings, and many of the songs tell us to stay true to our own selves while giving the best we can. Marcus Mumford has one of the most gorgeous, powerful voices I've heard in a while. He can sing a ballad and then he can fill his voice with emotion and kick out the jams. This guy, he can do it all. He sings, he plays guitar, he plays a kick drum simultaneously while singing and playing guitar, and he plays drums. Plus he writes the songs. I can't believe he is only 24 years old because he has a maturity about his music that led me to believe he was much older. The arrangements and the lyrics are all so amazing. I haven't seen them live in person, but I managed to catch the live stream of their set at Coachella over the past weekend. Their songs carry over from the studio incredibly well. In fact, the energy and excitement that was present in their performance and the feedback from the crowd made the band even better than I previously thought they were (if that was possible).

For most of the past month, Sigh No More has been the music that plays in my car as I drive around. Trust me when I tell you that I do my fair share of driving, so this record has been receiving a considerable number of spins. I can't play it enough. I listen to it at work and I listen to it at home. Sometimes I even listen to it at the gym! But back to my previous thought that they were a wimpy folk band: yes, they are a folk band. Have some country, have some folk, have some bluegrass. Have some rock and roll. Have Mumford & Sons. They are a folk band, but they sure as hell ain't a wimpy folk band. They know how to rock out. I think that is one of the reasons why I like these guys so much. They can play beautiful songs that are at home in the sunshine and then switch to playing music with dark overtones that sounds like it's storming outside. They have the capacity to provide intimate, minimal instrumentation with just Marcus Mumford's vocals and guitar and then jump into full-band mode that could fill up an entire ocean with sound. Mumford and Sons are a band that get dynamics, and they use them to their full advantage. I love that a band like this has been tearing up the Billboard Rock charts, because it's good for music. I'm so sick of all those angsty "rock" bands who play terrible music yet manage to hit the charts. Mumford & Sons are a breath of fresh air and I am so happy that they are successful because it gives me hope that good music will eventually prevail.

I am so in love with the way this album fills my heart with emotion and makes me feel good about everything. There's so many amazing lyrics; here are just a few of my personal favorites:

"Love: it will not betray you, dismay or enslave you; it will set you free."
(From "Sigh No More")

"Stars hide your fires, these here are my desires and I won't give them up to you this time around. And so, I’ll be found with my stake stuck in this ground, marking the territory of this newly impassioned soul..."
(From "Roll Away Your Stone")

"We'll be washed and buried one day, my girl, and the time we were given will be left for the world. The flesh that lived and loved will be eaten by plague; so let the memories be good for those who stay."
(From "Winter Winds")

"You are my accuser, now, look in my face. Your opression reeks of your greed and disgrace. So one man has and another has not; how can you love what it is you have got, when you took it all from the weak hands of the poor? Liars and thieves you know not what is in store; there will come a time I will look in your eye, you will pray to the God that you've always denied. Then I'll go out back and I'll get my gun. I'll say, "You haven't met me, I am the only son!""
(From "Dust Bowl Dance")(This one you really need to listen to the whole song for the full effect, but I feel weird posting the entirety of the lyrics here...so, yeah.)

I could keep going, but a lot of these are simply for personal reference anyway, so I will stop now. And I could go on and on and on about how amazing this album is, but I think I'll stop, at least for now. I've got to go listen to Sigh No More.

MIKE POSNER - 31 Minutes To Takeoff

2011-03-29T23:00:00.004-04:00

I like how it's called 31 Minutes To Takeoff when the album is actually around 37 minutes long. Perhaps Mike is referencing something else with the title? Who knows.

This is his debut album. His popularity has been buoyed by singles like "Cooler Than Me", "Please Don't Go", and, most recently, "Bow Chicka Wow Wow". Though the radio version of "Bow Chicka Wow Wow" features a guest spot by Lil Wayne, the album version doesn't. Sadness.

Anyway, Mike Posner has never (at least to the best of my knowledge) professed to be a maker of "deep" or "intellectual" music. If he did, then he's a liar. He makes pop music: fluffy, candy-coated pop music. It's sexy pop music though; it grooves, thanks no doubt to his hip-hop influences. This album would be best listened to by people who won't be offended by the dropping of the word "shit" in several of the songs, or the fact that Posner often is either singing about being ignored by girls, picking up girls, having sex with girls, being cheated on by girls, or cheating on girls. We get it, Mike, you like girls. Despite the fact that most of the lyrics are throwaway and even cheesy at times, I like this guy's stuff. Mike's got a unique voice that isn't great but he uses it the best he can. He's got a smooth delivery and exudes charm. I love the horns on "Do You Wanna" which really add some soul to his sound. "Gone in September" is such a sweet little song (it even has finger snaps!), that you almost want to side with this guy who's cheating on his girlfriend. Almost: Mike hits the nail on the head when he sings, "I thought I wasn't like the others...Guess I'm an asshole after all." At least he knows it. We do have "Delta 1406" on here which seems to be about the unintended consequences and worries of becoming famous very quickly.

Overall, I do like this album a lot. I think it will make for good summer jam music: not too deep but it's catchy and polished to a shine.

WIZ KHALIFA - Rolling Papers

2011-03-25T22:31:00.005-04:00

I don't know too much about Wiz Khalifa. In the few things I have read about him online, I know that a lot of his "fans" consider him a "sell-out" because he's on a major label now (Atlantic) and this album was a "let-down" based on the strength of his previous mixtapes. Well, I never listened to those mixtapes, and I'm one of the people that first heard Wiz when "Black and Yellow" came on my radio's speakers. So maybe I'm not qualified to talk about this album, but I was hooked on that single the first time I heard it. Every time it came on, the volume went up and I was singing along to the chorus. Eventually, I said to myself, "Self, you should get his album and listen to it."

I'm definitely not any sort of expert on the hip-hop/rap genre, but I will tell you that I enjoy this album the whole way through. Not all of the songs are 100% awesome, but a song like "Roll Up", with its synth backing, is fantastic. Sure, the song material is kinda fluffy (being there and wanting to be with a girl who apparently is with some sort of loser boyfriend but is cheating on him), but who cares. It's nice to see a rapper who isn't afraid to show a heart once in a while. It's probably my favorite track on the disc. And don't worry, we still get plenty of references to "hoes" and "bitches" on other songs so Wiz isn't a total softie! Haters gon' hate on this record for sure, but I'm digging it, so there.

R.I.P. Speed Bump

2010-12-16T00:16:00.003-05:00

Today I lost one of my best animal friends, Speed Bump. He wasn't technically "my" dog but he might as well have been. I know he is in doggy heaven, eating dog bones, raiding kitty litter boxes, playing rope tug-of-war, and impressing all the lady dogs with that ridiculous grin he always had. Speedbump, Bump, Bumble, Bumpzilla, Bumplestiltskin, The Bumpinator, The Abumpinable Monster, and all the other crazy names I made up for you -- I miss you.

Just look at that grin.

Plotting a sneak attack on the litter box, I'm sure.

AUDITORIUM - Be Brave

2010-12-14T12:00:00.001-05:00

Be Brave's official release date is January 18, 2011, and all I can say about that is, thank goodness for advance copies.

This album was recorded over a three-year span by Spencer Berger, who did all of the performing, recording, and mixing (later "finishing touches" were added by Pete Lyman). He's now joined by a full band on live performances. Berger is already an accomplished performer, having performed at the Metropolitan Opera from the time he was 9 years old through 12 years old and graduating with a music degree from Vassar College. His talents also go beyond the musical world, as he wrote the screenplay for "Skills Like This", which won the 2007 SXSW Film Festival's Audience Award for Best Narrative Film and garnered many fine critical reviews. But, I digress.

Back to Be Brave, which features 14 songs and clocks in at just over 31 minutes. Upon first hearing the album, it seems warm and friendly. It's that person you meet at a party and you know you've met them before but you can't place where, and they don't seem to recognize you so you don't know if you're mistaken but ultimately it doesn't matter because you are enjoying their company nonetheless. The album's minimalist approach of just guitars, electric bass, and vocals doesn't compromise the full sound of the songs. Berger's voice reminds me of Elliott Smith without the weight of the world bringing him down. Plenty of gorgeous layered vocals on here as well. I guess if I had to label this with a genre I'd say it's singer-songwriter indie folk. Right now, if I had to pick, I'd say my favorite song is "I'm The Enforcer". This is an album for sitting by the fire, drinking hot cocoa, and making out. Fantastic music for fantastic things.

www.myspace.com/auditoriumband
fieldfm.wordpress.com

JASON ANDERSON - Tonight

2010-12-05T12:00:00.001-05:00

This came out in 2007. I won't cover up the fact that I absolutely adore Jason Anderson. Once you see this man perform live, you would probably feel the same. Tonight attempts to capture the magic of his live performances. The best parts on the album are when the crowd sings back to Jason. The album does a pretty good job of showing you the energy and audience participation that Jason has when he plays live, but they still can't hold a candle to actually being there in the circle around Jason and having him sing to you while he plays his acoustic guitar. The songs on this album also feature more instrumentation than just Jason and his guitar. Still, I love this album. Jason has a special way of capturing the moments in life that make your heart happy (or sad, in some songs) and putting them into song. He likes to write a lot about living life to the fullest every day and also just about love in general. Here's some lyrics off of "So Long": "All I want, at least right now, is to be close to you, the smell of your hair is literally amazing, honestly" and "The best thing in the world is to love someone and they love you back." So simple, yet so true; I'm sure everyone's felt this way at some point. The most amazing part, though, is if you were with all of your friends chanting out the "The best thing in the world..." lyrics; you would feel all warm and fuzzy inside. That is the appeal of Jason Anderson.

www.jasonandersonswebsite.com

THE FUTUREHEADS - "Christmas Was Better In The 80's" (Single)

2010-12-04T12:00:00.001-05:00

A holiday-themed song from The Futureheads. The song starts off slow, with a single piano and lyrics that reminisce about the singer's youth and how, as the title suggests, "Christmas was better in the eighties". The song then kicks into the tight post-punk/new-wave you know these guys for, with harmony vocals, chimes, and a propelling drum rhythm. The chimes really give the song a Christmas feel. After the band kicks out the jams, they return to the solitary piano and vocal at the end, which neatly wraps up the song. This is a solid single, props to the band for this one.

www.thefutureheads.com
www.myspace.com/thefutureheads

EDITORS - In This Light And On This Evening

2010-12-03T12:00:00.001-05:00

This is the third full-length album from the band that originally formed in Birmingham, England. Half of the band, bassist Russell Leech and guitarist Chris Urbanowicz, now live in New York while singer Tom Smith lives in London (I don't know where drummer Edward Lay resides). In This Light And On This Evening was recorded in London and produced by Flood. This album came out in October 2009, and I've been sitting on it for over a year. Why? I've always liked the singles this band put out but could never get into listening to a whole album. Truth be told, I think this is the first time I've ever listened to an entire Editors album so I can't really say how this album holds up to their first two. The Joy Division comparisons are still present, but the machine-like, synth-heavy backing music really pushes the band's sound in a great direction. Lots of lyrical references to London, God, death, and love. I think Smith's voice is creepy at times (I've always felt the same about Ian Curtis, too). Still, I'm liking this album and I think maybe it's time I gave their previous albums their overdue playthroughs.

www.myspace.com/editorsmusic
www.editorsofficial.com

RADIO SILENCE NYC - Renegade (Single)

2010-12-02T12:00:00.002-05:00

Here's a group of four 16-year old boys who came together from different parts of New York City. According to their website bio, they first started playing together a year ago. Their first single is called "Renegade". The group has partnered with the not-for-profit organization DoSomething.org to use the song, which features lyrics like "Hatred is the enemy!", as an anti-bullying anthem. The song itself is slickly-produced pop rock that owes a big debt to the genre commonly known as pop-punk. Considering they're 16, the song is decent and it seems like they're acting their ages which is good. The guitar solo is the best part, the guitarist reminds me of the lead guitarist from the movie School of Rock.

Watch the "Renegade" video: www.youtube.com/watch?v=qon7zy2Qotk

Radio Silence NYC: radiosilencenyc.com
DoSomething.org: www.DoSomething.org.

ANAMANAGUCHI - Scott Pilgrim Vs. The World: The Game (Original Videogame Soundtrack)

2010-12-01T12:00:00.001-05:00

I've never sat down to listen to "video game" music before, but I've seen the name Anamanaguchi referenced a few times as being at the top of this genre of music and it's the soundtrack to the Scott Pilgrim movie video game, so I decided to give it a shot. I guess this is what they call "8bit" or "chiptunes" music nowadays. It's uptempo with lots of blips and bleeps. Nintendo sounds. This has a ton of energy and is very well put-together. I can understand why so many people are into this; it's just catchy electronic music with a nerdy side to it. I think I'll go play some Super Mario Bros. now!

www.myspace.com/anamanaguchi
www.anamanaguchi.com

KIMBERLEY REW - Bible Of Bop

2010-11-30T12:00:00.001-05:00

Kimberley Rew was the guitarist for both The Soft Boys and Katrina and the Waves. Although many don't recognize his name, most are familiar with the big hit song he wrote while with Katrina and the Waves: "Walking On Sunshine". Bible of Bop was released in 1982, a year after the Soft Boys broke up and a year before Katrina and the Waves would release their first album. The album was composed of eight songs; three of these songs were recorded with the Soft Boys serving as the backing band: "Stomping All Over the World," "Nothing's Going to Change," and "Fighting Someone's War". Another three songs put the dB's to work as the backing band: "My Baby Does Her Hairdo Long," "Walking in the Dew," and "Fishing". The remaining two songs, "Nightmare" and "Hey, War Pig!" were recorded with the Waves. Through this set of songs, we see just how good a songwriter Rew was. He was well at home with the post-punk/new-wave crowd; at times, his songs are reminiscent of the work of Television or The Cure. I've listened to this album a bunch of times and I think I like it more each time. Great stuff.

www.kimberleyrew.com

REIGNING SOUND - Time Bomb High School

2010-11-29T12:00:00.001-05:00

I recently found out about this band because their frontman, Greg Cartwright, is involved in another project, The Parting Gifts, which also features Patrick Keeler of The Greenhornes/The Raconteurs. Actually, I'm certain I'd heard their band name before but I didn't check them out at the time. As it turns out, Cartwright appears to be somewhat of an underground legend in the garage rock/punk/blues scene, having been the leader of The Compulsive Gamblers and The Oblivians prior to the Reigning Sound. Formed in Memphis, Tennessee in 2001, Cartwright and the band are now based out of Asheville, North Carolina. Time Bomb High School is their sophomore album and it came out in 2002. I wish I'd listened to this album sooner than the 8-year timespan it took me to. This is an awesome album. It combines rock, garage, punk, blues, and it has a very 50s/60s feel to it. Really cool stuff! I'll be looking into their other stuff as well now that I know about these guys.

www.myspace.com/reigningsoundfans
www.intheredrecords.com/pages/ReigningSound.html

LUCERO - Tennessee

2010-11-28T12:00:00.000-05:00

These guys are from Memphis, and the suitably-titled Tennessee was their sophomore album. It came out in 2002. I've been meaning to listen to Lucero for a few years now, ever since I heard their name being tossed around with bands you might like if you like The Hold Steady. While I can see why the comparison was made, Lucero has much more of a country influence. Their singer has a raspy voice that makes you think he might have smoked one too many cigarettes. The album has a warm feeling to it; it's straight-up roots rock. While I think the album could use a bit more variety throughout, I'll definitely be checking into Lucero's other stuff based on the sound of Tennessee.

www.myspace.com/lucero
www.luceromusic.com

CALVIN HARRIS - Ready For The Weekend

2010-11-27T12:00:00.001-05:00

Ready For The Weekend is Calvin Harris' second album. It came out in August of 2009. He continues to make music of the same style as his debut album, I Created Disco: electro pop/dance/rock. While I like songs like "The Rain" and "Flashback" quite a bit, there are a lot of other ones that I'm just not feeling. I find the album to be rather inconsistent as a whole product. I also found the rapping on the album to be out of place. I definitely like his debut album better. Sorry, Calvin.

www.myspace.com/calvinharristv
www.calvinharris.co.uk

CATTLE DRUMS - The Boy Kisser Sessions EP

2010-11-26T12:00:00.000-05:00

These guys are from Oneonta, NY. This is their latest EP; it came out in March 2010. Five songs, just over 14 minutes. Yep, this is a punk band. A lot of the guitar lines remind me of math rock guitar lines. The singer either talks or screams a lot of his lyrics but he's a really good frontman. They sound like they'd be fun live.

www.myspace.com/cattledrums
cattledrums.tumblr.com

Happy Thanksgiving!

2010-11-25T12:00:00.001-05:00

Here is a turkey I colored for you. Regular updates will resume tomorrow.

DAFT PUNK - Tron: Legacy (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack)

2010-11-24T12:00:00.002-05:00

Finally, new music from Daft Punk! It's been a while. 2007 saw the release of their live album, Alive 2007, but their last studio album, Human After All, came out way back in 2005, so this new soundtrack is sure to be snapped up and listened to quickly by their many fans. The thing is, though, that this is very much a soundtrack to Tron: Legacy. It is more orchestral than electronic. The closest thing on here to Daft Punk's electronic house music is the song "Derezzed" (which, interestingly enough, seems to be the song that is being used to promote the fact that Daft Punk was involved with the movie). They worked with a 90-member orchestra for this, so it makes sense that the sound would be different. That certainly does not make this a bad soundtrack. It's pretty cool as far as soundtracks go. But for those thinking it is the follow-up to Human After All, you may be disappointed.

www.myspace.com/daftpunk
www.daftpunk.com

3OH3 - Streets Of Gold

2010-11-23T12:00:00.000-05:00

One of my favorite albums of 2010. I listen to this when I'm at the gym because it really gets me pumped up. I listen to it when I'm just hanging out at home. I listen to it when I'm thinking about partying that night. I listen to it after a night of partying. I listen to it when I'm doing homework. To be honest, it's scary how many times I've played this album. They've definitely gotten better since 2008's Want. Most of the songs are still about girls, sex, and partying, but we also get some "heavier" material (well, heavy by 3OH!3 standards) like the breakup song "R.I.P.". Obviously this album isn't a "huge artistic achievement" but you better believe that it's fun and it's stocked with catchy songs. And isn't that the point of pop music?

www.myspace.com/3oh3
www.3oh3music.com

GIRLS - Broken Dreams Club EP

2010-11-22T12:00:00.001-05:00

My first impression of this is that it just sounds depressing. It really could be music for you to listen to as you think about your broken dreams. We get lyrics like "Who wants something real, you could have nothing. Why not just give up, who wants to try?" on the song "Substance" and this offering from the song "Heartbreaker": "There's a voice in the back of my head that says you're always going to be alone". I just can't really get into music with such obviously sad and lonely lyrics. If I'm down in the dumps, I want music that is going to make me happy, not remind me of how crappy I feel. And if I'm already happy, I certainly don't want to be brought down. So this stuff isn't my cup of tea, but maybe it could be yours if you like downer indie-hipster music. Or whatever. I do like the horns on the opening track. I just wish people wouldn't call Girls a "rock and roll band", I mean, seriously, if this is a rock and roll band then I have no idea what the world is coming to.

www.myspace.com/girlssanfran
www.truepanther.com/#/artists/girls

EXPATRIATE - In The Midst Of This

2010-11-21T12:00:00.004-05:00

This album was first released in 2007 but is just now seeing its full US release. Expatriate are from Sydney, Australia, but they now live in Berlin. Remember a few years ago when there was a big explosion of bands influenced by Joy Division and the darker sounds of post-punk? Surely you remember Interpol, Editors, and their less-famous counterparts. Well, Expatriate's album falls into the same genre as those bands. So if you like that kind of music, this will suit you quite nicely. If you don't like that kind of music, I can't help you here. "Crazy" is a pretty catchy song. The album cover reminds me of Wire's Pink Flag.

www.myspace.com/expatriateband
www.expatriateband.com

WILDLIFE - Strike Hard, Young Diamond

2010-11-20T12:00:00.000-05:00

They're from Toronto and this is their debut album. I like it. They sound like a band I already know and love. Put this on and tell your friends it is the new Wolf Parade, they won't bat an eyelash.

www.myspace.com/wildlifemusic1

THE LONELY FOREST - The Lonely Forest EP

2010-11-19T12:00:00.003-05:00

The Lonely Forest is a quartet from Anacortes, Washington. They've been making music for several years; their first EP was released in 2006. Their self-titled EP, however, marks their first release for Death Cab For Cutie member Chris Walla's Trans record label. Apparently, The Lonely Forest were the first band to be signed to Trans. I'm not surprised because their music is really good and it bears a likeness to DCFC's sound: driving indie rock. The two bands could tour together and they would work perfectly with each other. The Lonely Forest's vocalist, John Van Deusen, sounds like Michael Stipe at times (except you can understand what Van Deusen is saying). The music has great dynamics with soaring, full-on choruses and laid-back verses. Recommended.

www.myspace.com/thelonelyforest
www.thelonelyforest.com

DVAS - Society

2010-11-18T12:00:00.005-05:00

I think their logo is really cool. They are a Canadian electro group. They're playing upbeat, danceable electro pop. Some tracks have vocals, others are entirely instrumental. It's not going to be the first thing I recommend to others, but it's okay. It's not the most memorable stuff. I imagine it sounds better live and better when played loud. "Questions" is a really cool jam. "Giving It All Away" inexplicably reminds me of Genesis' "Invisible Touch". Actually, the whole record has a definite 80s influence to it. I think I'd play this record at a party where people were encouraged to dance but dancing wasn't the focus of the evening's activities, if that makes any sense at all to people that are not me.

www.myspace.com/dvasmusique
dvasmusique.com

SOMEONE STILL LOVES YOU BORIS YELTSIN - Let It Sway

2010-11-17T12:00:00.000-05:00

The third album for the group from Springfield, Missouri. Let It Sway was produced by Death Cab For Cutie's Chris Walla. I've never listened to them before this album because somehow I thought they were wimpy twee pop (OK, so I know why I thought that but I'm not revealing it on here). As it turns out, they play something closer to fun indie pop. I suppose it is kind of wimpy, but it's not any wimpier than Death Cab (probably why Chris Walla was a good choice to work on this album). So it's not bad, really. I'm glad I gave it a chance, it's pretty alright. Makes me wish I was out in the sun somewhere soaking up the rays.

www.myspace.com/boris
www.sslyby.com

AGAINST ME - White Crosses

2010-11-16T12:00:00.004-05:00

The fifth proper studio album for Gainesville, Florida's Against Me!. I would classify their sound on this album as punk arena rock. They sound big, like Bruce Springsteen, but they've also got their punk rock roots. My favorite Against Me! songs are the ones that tell stories about their main characters, like "Thrash Unreal" off of New Wave and now, from this album, "Because of the Shame". I don't think White Crosses is the best album of 2010, but it's a pretty good listen nonetheless.

www.myspace.com/againstme
www.againstme.net

THE WHITE STRIPES - Under Great White Northern Lights

2010-11-15T12:00:00.000-05:00

Released in March of 2010, Under Great White Northern Lights is both a White Stripes live CD and the name of a documentary film about them. The material was recorded during their tour of Canada in the summer of 2007. We hear many of their hit songs on this album, including "Fell In Love With A Girl", "Blue Orchid", and "Icky Thump". We get to hear the minimalism the two-piece employs (employed?) in their live shows as well as Jack White's unrestrained, raggedy live vocals (though, at times, he is a bit much because while the man's got heart, he doesn't exactly have the pipes). We also see how much energy the band generates during their performances, which is probably the highlight of this recording. The White Stripes aren't playing note-for-note renditions of their studio recordings; these are raw, garage-worthy performances, yet the crowd goes nuts over them. A true testament to the power of a great rock 'n' roll band.

www.myspace.com/thewhitestripes
www.whitestripes.com

TRENT REZNOR AND ATTICUS ROSS - The Social Network

2010-11-14T12:00:00.001-05:00

Score to David Fincher's The Social Network, perhaps the biggest movie of 2010. It has a sort of nervous/anxious feel to it, driven by the emotions in the movie. According to Mr. Reznor himself: "Musically, this all came out of our secret laboratory - electronic in basis, but mostly organic sounding. Lots of experiments and emphasis on sound fraying around the edges while focusing on the proper emotional tone for the various scenes." My favorite track is far and away "In the Hall of the Mountain King". For an electronic-based song, it totally rips. I like to listen to this album while I'm doing my computer science homework, so that I can visualize myself becoming a billionaire programmer like Mark Zuckerberg. It's just enough to have in the background to keep my mind from wandering yet still focused on the task at hand.

www.nullco.com/TSN

EDDY CURRENT SUPPRESSION RING - Rush To Relax

2010-11-13T12:00:00.000-05:00

The Australian band's third full-length record. Their post-punk/garage-punk sound reminds me of Gang of Four or Wire. If I remember correctly, this one is more subdued than their last release (Primary Colours). Even so, these guys have their sound down and they know what they are doing. Good stuff.

www.myspace.com/eddycurrentsuppressionring
www.ecsr.com.au

THE GASLIGHT ANTHEM - American Slang

2010-11-12T12:00:00.001-05:00

I love this band. That's really all you need to know.

www.myspace.com/thegaslightanthem
www.gaslightanthem.com

ELI "PAPERBOY" REED - Come and Get It

2010-11-11T12:00:00.001-05:00

This is Eli's third full-length album and his first for the Capitol label. He's from the Boston area, but you probably wouldn't know it from listening to his music. His style is soul music and he'll have you wondering if Come and Get It isn't really a forgotten Stax/Motown record. At the same time, it sounds fresh and new. This is a fantastic album. Kick out the jams with "Explosion", take some advice with "Come and Get It", enjoy the horns and harmonies on "Tell Me What I Want To Hear". Whatever you do, you should enjoy this album.

www.myspace.com/elipaperboyreed
www.elipaperboyreed.com

DEFIANCE, OHIO - Midwestern Minutes

2010-11-10T12:00:00.003-05:00

This is the fourth full-length from this Columbus, Ohio-based band. As it turns out, they release all of their music for free download on their website. Pretty cool, because if this album is an indication, all of those downloads are worth your bandwidth (and any donations to the band you can afford to make). Midwestern Minutes is acoustic punk rock. It definitely has a country bend to it thanks in part to the violin, cello, and upright bass they employ on their recordings. I'd go see this band if they played a show near me. Dig it.

www.myspace.com/defianceohio32
www.defianceohio.terrorware.com

LCD SOUNDSYSTEM - 45:33

2010-11-09T12:00:00.000-05:00

This came out in 2006. You've probably heard of it already. I'm reviewing it for personal reasons. This was put out to be a soundtrack for when you go for a run. I guess it was commissioned by Nike, at least that's what I've heard. It's basically just a bunch of LCD Soundsystem ideas that are knitted together into one very long track. "Someone Great" off of Sound of Silver is definitely reused in here, minus the vocals. There may be other LCD tracks that are recycled as well, but I'm not familiar with them as much as I would be with "Someone Great". I probably would not run to this. I don't really see the point. It doesn't really move me. I also find the vocoder voices annoying. If I want to listen to LCD Soundsystem, I'll listen to regular albums, not this thing.

www.myspace.com/lcdsoundsystem
www.lcdsoundsystem.com

ELLIOTT SMITH - An Introduction To...

2010-11-08T12:00:00.001-05:00

When you sit down to think about it, it's hard to believe that it's been over seven years since Elliott Smith died on October 21, 2003. I first heard of Elliott when his posthumous album, From A Basement On The Hill, was being released. While I listened to that album a bunch of times (Prior to buying it, I actually streamed the album's preview on dial-up internet, which was totally worth the effort), I'm certainly not one to say I'm a huge Elliott Smith fan. I like him a lot, but his music tends to depress me, so I don't play it very often. Still, the man was an amazing musician.

An Introduction To... is a quick little look into the songbook of Elliott Smith's solo career. There's at least one song from each of his solo albums, with XO only getting one and Either/Or showcasing five. The songs aren't in chronological order, something that irritates me when compilation albums are put together. There really isn't anything new here for current fans. The collection is put together for people who have never heard [much] of Elliott's music (hence the title). I'm sure we could argue for hours about which songs should or shouldn't have been included on here. But we can't change the tracklisting now, so there wouldn't be much of a point in doing that. Instead, we can remember Elliott Smith and the fact that he was a great songwriter and put on some of his albums.

http://www.myspace.com/elliottsmithnewmoon
www.sweetadeline.net

TRAVIE MCCOY - Lazarus

2010-11-07T12:00:00.001-05:00

Travis "Travie" McCoy is famous for being the frontman of Gym Class Heroes. He released his first solo album, Lazarus, in June of 2010. I really like the album's first two singles, "Billionaire" (which also features Bruno Mars, who is riding high on the charts right now with a song I cannot stand) and "Need You" so I decided to check out the rest. I've been looking for fresh new jams anyway. The album is a mishmash of pop, hip-hop, and rock elements. The singles are fantastic, as are some of the other songs (though a few are just so-so). I understand that "We'll Be Alright" is going to be Travie's third single, and there's no doubt why: it borrows from Supertramp's "Alright", and it's got hooks, it's catchy, and it's upbeat. "After Midnight" will probably be a single, too. A bunch of songs feature other famous artists so who knows, those could probably be singles too. Say what you will about these songs being overprocessed and manufactured, they're still catchy. The album is just a fun ride that you can get your swagger on to. Or something like that.

www.myspace.com/traviemccoy
www.traviemccoy.com

JEREMY JAY - Splash

2010-11-06T12:00:00.000-04:00

This is Jeremy's third full-length album in as many years. You can find him on the K Records label. This dude is stuck in a time-warp. He sounds a lot like Morrissey on this album. The music is throwback indie-pop/rock. The entire album of nine songs clocks in at under 27 minutes long. A lot of the songs seem like they could use more fleshing out, but if you've enjoyed his other releases you'll probably like this one too. Though I still think his sophomore album, Slow Dance, is his best.

www.myspace.com/jeremyjay
www.www.krecs.com/html/artists/artistbio.php?interest=101

TELEKINESIS - Parallel Seismic Conspiracies EP

2010-11-05T12:00:00.001-04:00

Telekinesis is the moniker of Seattle's Michael Benjamin Lerner. This is a quick little EP of five songs to tide fans over until the scheduled 2011 release of Telekinesis' sophomore album. There is a full-band version of "Calling All Doctors" and two new songs, "Dirty Thing" and "Non-Toxic". We get a faithful cover of Guided By Voices' "Game of Pricks" as well a cover of (pre-Joy Division) Warsaw's "The Drawback". Fun breezy indie pop.

www.myspace.com/telekinesismusic
www.telekinesismusic.com

WOLF PARADE - Expo 86

2010-11-04T12:00:00.001-04:00

Wolf Parade's third album; it was released on June 29, 2010. I'm just getting around to listening to it now. I have a problem listening to new Wolf Parade material because their debut album, Apologies to the Queen Mary, is one of my favorite albums ever. That debut album holds so many memories and emotions for me. Really, nothing Wolf Parade can ever put out will compare to that album and how I feel about it.

But I do love the band so I find myself listening to their new stuff. Actually, Expo 86 is really good. I never really fell in love with At Mount Zoomer, but this one, this one is good times. Really digging it. It's got a great vibe to it. I'll never feel the same as I did with their first LP, but this is definitely worth a listen (or a few!).

www.myspace.com/wolfparade
www.subpop.com/artists/wolf_parade

JOHN K. SAMSON - Provincial Road 222

2010-11-03T12:00:00.003-04:00

John is the frontman for The Weakerthans. Provincial Road 222 has him taking the solo route once again; this is the second of a "series of recordings exploring streets and highways in his home province", following 2009's City Route 85.

According to the Anti- website: "Provincial Road 222 runs up the side of Lake Winnipeg, north of the city, and leads to the town of Riverton, Manitoba. Samson begins the EP with "The Last And," set at Riverton Early Middle School, where a teacher ponders the disintegration of her affair with the principal. "Petition" takes the form of an online petition (www.ipetitions.com/petition/rivertonrifle/ ) by local citizens to induct native son Reggie "The Rifle" Leach, member of the legendary mid-70s Philadelphia Flyers, into the Hockey Hall of Fame. In the closing song, "Stop Error," set to a chorale by J. S. Bach, a young adult in an old house on Provincial Road 222 uses a computer to search for solace and a way to describe the world."

Samson has a voice you'll love or hate. He reminds me of John Darnielle in that not only does he have a love it/hate it kind of voice, but he writes great lyrics. Has there ever been an indie song asking for a hockey player to be inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame? I don't know, but as a hockey lover, I don't mind. The overall feeling I get when listening to this is that it's something I'd put on late at night to unwind to. I find Samson's voice soothing and welcoming. The songs on here are all pretty sparse; I've certainly liked some of the output by his band a lot more, but if you are a fan, I'm sure you will have to have this for your collection.

The Weakerthans' Myspace:
www.myspace.com/theweakerthans
John K. Samson's artist page on the Anti- record label website:
www.anti.com/artists/view/75

BROKEN SOCIAL SCENE - Forgiveness Rock Record

2010-11-02T12:00:00.001-04:00

May 2010 release from these kings (and queens) of indie rock. They are often described as a collective, rather than a band, as the only two constant "full-time" members are Kevin Drew and Brendan Canning. They have a rotating band of merry musicians join them both on records and live, some of whom are or have become indie rock stars on their own (Feist, members of Stars, Jason Collett, and so many others). We can consider Forgiveness Rock Record to be BSS's fourth proper studio album. I remember when this album came out that a lot of people on the 'nets kind of trashed it. It doesn't have the same intense groove as their last record; I don't see people dancing to this one like they did to jamz like "Windsurfing Nation" or "Fire Eye'd Boy". There's still some catchy stuff on here, though. I like "Texico Bitches" and "Art House Director" to get my indie rock rock-outs on to, and there's a lot of material on here to chill to as well. I wouldn't trash this record; it definitely still is BSS, just a little more of a laid-back vibe. Will I play this every day? Nope. Am I glad I gave it a chance? Yes.

www.myspace.com/brokensocialscene
www.brokensocialscene.ca

HANK AND CUPCAKES - Hank and Cupcakes EP

2010-10-30T12:00:00.001-04:00

From Brooklyn by way of Israel (not something I get to type everyday), Hank & Cupcakes are here to entertain you/rock you/move you. Cupcakes sings and plays drums while Hank lays down the bass. The EP kicks off with two songs sure to get you out on the dance floor, "Ain't No Love" and "Pleasure Town". Cupcakes is cool and confident as she delivers her lyrics. The third track, "Roses", shows her as more emotional and vulnerable and is more the type of song where people will wave their lighters (or cell phones these days) than shake their booty. The album closes with a cover of Joy Division's "She's Lost Control". I've heard a number of bands try this cover, often with disastrous results. H&C keep it together, though, and manage to deliver an interesting take on the song. The EP is just a brief introduction to the band but shows them in fine form.

From what I've heard, the duo are a great live act and they will be embarking on a Fall 2010 tour this November, with dates along the East Coast. Check their Myspace for more details and shows near you.

www.myspace.com/hankandcupcakes
www.hankandcupcakes.com

MATT & KIM - Sidewalks

2010-10-29T12:00:00.001-04:00

Matt & Kim, the too-cute couple duo from Brooklyn, present their third full-length album. Their sound hasn't changed too much from their previous albums: upbeat indie pop/rock with nerdy male vocals. Fans of previous albums should be pleased. I'm personally not as crazy about this as I was for their first two albums, but I could see this growing on me if I give it more spins. I don't think it's as immediately catchy as their previous releases, but it seems to have more potential for staying in rotation. The songs seem to have more happening and won't wear thin after a few plays. So for that, it could very well end up being my favorite album by these two kids. For those that are curious, "Cameras" is the album's first single and "AM/FM Sound" is my favorite track after my first play of the album in its entirety.

www.myspace.com/mattandkim
www.mattandkimmusic.com

WEEZER - Hurley

2010-09-20T12:00:00.000-04:00

Weezer's eighth studio album. I remember back in 2003/2004 when Weezer fans wondered if there would even be a fifth album (eventually, 2005's Make Believe solved that dilemma). Now, Weezer has released three albums over the past three years, and by the few recent interviews with frontman Rivers Cuomo that I've read, they aren't planning on waiting multiple years between albums anymore. We'll see how that works out, though.

Anyway, Hurley is named after Jorge Garcia's character from the show LOST and features Mr. Garcia on the cover as well. I guess no one knows what this has to do with the album itself, so we'll just continue on our merry way. I've listened to this album a few times now and I guess the best way to sum it up is that it sounds exactly like how a Weezer album is supposed to sound these days. Alternative pop. Just the typical upbeat power-pop/rock sound that we've come to expect from these guys. I mean, it's not bad, but it's not all that memorable either. I know that a lot of people, myself included, listen to new Weezer albums when they come out for catalog completion's sake. But after that, we rarely return, instead opting for Weezer classics like "Blue" or Pinkerton. So, thanks, Hurley, it was kind of fun while it lasted -- now go back in your case.

www.myspace.com/weezer
www.weezer.com

GHOSTLAND OBSERVATORY - Codename: Rondo

2010-09-19T12:00:00.003-04:00

The duo from Austin, Texas returns with their fourth studio album. These two dudes, Aaron Behrens and Thomas Turner, have got to be some of the most likable weirdos in the musical world right now. Their weirdness continues on this album. The title track involves the narrator instructing someone who has the codename of "Rondo" to purchase him a Slurpee, amongst other tasks. This whole idea would seem preposterous for most bands, but Ghostland pulls it off without a hitch. "Kick Clap Speaker" features a computer voice that sounds eerily similar to the one in Radiohead's "Fitter Happier". There's not really a lot of Behrens' natural high-pitched vocals on this album, which I am a bit disappointed by. Other than that, though, the songs all have a good beat and I'm sure people at parties would love to dance to this while swirling their glow sticks in the air. Yet another inherently odd album from these guys, but it's still interesting stuff. Dirty electro/rock/dance/wtf from these dudes. This album officially comes out on October 26th, on the duo's own Trashy Moped Recordings. Dig it.

SEE THE SNEAK PEEK FOR THE NEW ALBUM HERE: http://www.youtube.com/trashymoped

www.myspace.com/ghostlandobservatory
www.ghostlandobservatory.net
www.trashymoped.com

PERSONAL AND THE PIZZAS - Raw Pie

2010-08-13T12:00:00.000-04:00

As I've discovered, the summer months are not the optimal time for me to review music. Swimming, running and biking, baseball games, and more means I'm not spending a lot of time indoors to listen to some tunes. I've got a huge backlog of music to listen to, and Personal and the Pizzas certainly haven't helped when I do get a moment to put on an album. Why? Because when I do have time to listen, all I want to put on is Raw Pie.

I happened onto this New Jersey band by accident, but I stuck around after hearing "I Don't Wanna Be No Personal Pizza". Once I heard the rest of the album, I knew these guys would forever hold a special place in my music collection. They wear their musical influences (Do I even have to spell them out? Ramones, Stooges (love the album's title nod to the Stooges' third album), etc.) on their sleeve but they are smart enough to know how to do it right. The spoken intros to some of the songs, the high percentage of songs devoted to pizza, and of course, the tight garage rock playing all combine to make one gloriously fun album. This should be the next soundtrack to your late night parties; if it isn't, you're just not doing it right. Happy Pizza Pie Friday, or more appropriately, Happy Personal and the Pizzas Friday!

www.myspace.com/personalandthepizzas
They are members of the 1-2-3-4-GO! Records family: www.1234gorecords.com

RA RA RIOT - Boy EP

2010-07-22T12:00:00.001-04:00

Ra Ra Riot were formed in Syracuse, NY, so I always feel a sense of hometown pride when I hear them mentioned (even though I'm not from Syracuse and most people from Syracuse probably have never heard of the town where I grew up or the town where I now live). Nonetheless, their ascent to the indie rock royalty throne is certainly a story that will inspire kids from these parts for years to come. You could even call them a comeback story. At any rate, this band is a major player in the indie scene and beyond - but we're all wondering, can they repeat the success of their debut, The Rhumb Line?

The initial response to that question comes in the form of Boy, a quaint EP of three songs that clocks in at just over 10 and a half minutes long. The first song, the title track, is the only one that will also make an appearance on The Orchard, RRR's sophomore album that is scheduled to be released on August 24."Boy" is also the best track on here; hopefully, it is an indication of what the full-length album will be like. It's got great drums and an upbeat tempo. Our favorite string instruments give the song texture that most bands could only dream of. Love the bubbling bassline and that quickie guitar solo. Fantastic.

The other two songs on this ("Saccharin and the War" and "Keep It Quite (Bear)") didn't strike me as immediately as "Boy" did and while they would be at the top of the output heap for many other bands, I know Ra Ra Riot can do better. These songs are "growers" and maybe I'm just being too judgmental - I didn't have to wait for "Ghost Under Rocks" or "Dying is Fine" to grow on me since I was instantly attracted to them! I am enjoying these other two the more I listen, but still. I have very high standards here and hope for more instant attraction with the rest of the new material.

Definitely looking forward to The Orchard based off the strength of "Boy". August 24, here we come.

www.myspace.com/rarariot
www.rarariot.com

THE LOVE LANGUAGE - Libraries

2010-07-07T21:24:00.000-04:00

Libraries is North Carolina's The Love Language's second album. I liked their first album and I like this one, too. I like the faster songs the most - they are at their best when they get the tempo cooking and the instruments rocking and everyone singing and yelling and making noise all at once. File under: indie/college pop/rock.

www.myspace.com/thelovelanguage
thelovelanguage.com

THE WAVES - Shock Horror!

2010-07-06T12:00:00.002-04:00

The Waves were the predecessors to Katrina and the Waves. Shock Horror, their 1983 debut EP, was recently re-released to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the hit single "Walking On Sunshine" which was found on 1985's Katrina and the Waves. Shock Horror is chock-full of guitar-driven pop and New Wave music. I like it a lot. It has a "We recorded this in our garage and it still sounds awesome" vibe to it and it just seems really badass. I also have to mention the fact that there is a song on here called "Strolling On Air" - I guess it just didn't have the right ring to it to be a hit song but at least they tried again.

www.katrinaandthewaves.com/

TEEN INC. - Fountains / Friend Of The Night

2010-07-05T12:00:00.000-04:00

From Los Angeles, Teen Inc. was formed by the sibling duo of Daniel and Andrew Aged. They were both studio musicians (apparently for big-name artists like Pharell and Raphael Saadiq) so we know right off the bat that they've got the playing chops, but can they write their own stuff? I decided to give this single a listen after hearing it being compared to Prince. I suppose the vocals do have a Prince-like feel, but they're buried so far in the mix that they don't have the same confidence attached to them that Prince puts on his. The music does have a funk appeal to it but I'm not impressed yet. I could see myself giving a Teen Inc. full-length album a spin to see what happens to them, but it's not going to be on the top of my list.

www.myspace.com/teenincstuff
www.teen-inc.net

THE DRUMS - The Drums

2010-07-04T12:00:00.001-04:00

The Brooklyn quartet finally releases their first full-length album, after tempting us constantly with singles and an EP. They sound like they came straight out of the 1980's post-punk/indie scene. I'm shocked they're not British. Their music is great and if they're not huge by the time I post this review then I am sure they will blow up soon. Recommended if you like The Smiths, Voxtrot, that sort of thing.

www.myspace.com/thedrumsforever
www.thedrums.com

TOKYO POLICE CLUB - Champ

2010-07-01T12:00:00.000-04:00

I've been holding off on writing about this album for a few weeks now because I haven't been sure just how to describe my feelings about it. I don't have a lot of time right now to wax poetically, so here's the shortened review: My favorite new release, so far, of 2010.

www.myspace.com/tokyopoliceclub
www.tokyopoliceclub.com

STARS - The Five Ghosts

2010-06-30T12:00:00.000-04:00

Fifth full-length from Canada's Stars. For me, this band is the perfect soundtrack to cold winter nights spent dreaming of your crush. I've always described them to others (okay, maybe just myself) as having a romantic sound. Their sound is just so warm and welcoming and Amy Milan's angelic voice plays perfectly off of Torq Campbell's. Great for indie kids to make out to and fall in love to. They also have their fair share of songs that will be great background noise for you while cry over the fact that you've broken up with said indie kid counterpart.

Anyway, I'd file them under Canadian-romantic-indie-synthpop-pop-rock (not that I actually WOULD file them under that, because that would just be a ridiculous way to organize my music collection). The Five Ghosts starts off strong with "Dead Hearts" which is followed by a few great songs (I especially like "I Died So I Could Haunt You"). But by the time I've gotten through the fifth track, "We Don't Want Your Body", I feel like they've spent their tank of gas and are just running on fumes. I think the material on this album could have made for a killer EP. As a full-length album, it just doesn't hold up - especially when we know what Stars are capable of from their past releases.

www.myspace.com/stars
www.youarestars.com

DEVO - Something For Everybody

2010-06-29T12:00:00.002-04:00

DEVO!!! How could you not be excited? This is their ninth studio album and first since 1990. It's fantastic, ridiculous new-wave pop music. Great lyrics. Catchy stuff. It's DEVO! How could you not like it?

www.myspace.com/devo
www.clubdevo.com

BORN RUFFIANS - Say It

2010-06-28T12:00:00.001-04:00

Second full-length from Toronto's Born Ruffians. Another exercise in well-crafted indie-pop that jangles along the way. Luke LaLonde continues his yelp-laden, marbles-in-mouth-sounding vocals. I think he sounds more confident on this release. I'd still recommend this band for fans of cutesy pop music, Vampire Weekend, and Clap Your Hands Say Yeah. Not too much has changed.

www.myspace.com/bornruffians
www.bornruffians.com

RATATAT - LP4

2010-06-27T12:00:00.001-04:00

The duo of Evan Mast and Mike Stroud returns with their aptly-titled fourth album, LP4. I learned that this album is best played loudly on a decent stereo system. Your computer speakers just will not do. I also learned that I still think Ratatat's first two albums are their best efforts. Sure, LP4 is good ("Drugs" is pretty great) but nothing on it holds a candle to previous songs like "Loud Pipes" or "Breaking Away". There are many people who say that this newer, more mature Ratatat is better but I simply cannot agree. Ratatat, we can still be friends, but my fondest memories of you lie in our past adventures together.

www.myspace.com/ratatatmusic
www.ratatatmusic.com

THE GET UP KIDS - Simple Science EP

2010-06-24T12:00:00.002-04:00

The Get Up Kids were formed in Kansas City, Missouri, in the mid-1990s and released their debut album, Four Minute Mile, in 1997. They went on to become one of the torchbearers of the late '90s "emo" movement. But unlike Jimmy Eat World, who broke out in a big way in 2002, GUK never really achieved what I would consider mainstream success outside of the emo realm. The band broke up in 2005 with the members going on to pursue other projects (The New Amsterdams, Koufax, Blackpool Lights, Reggie and the Full Effect) but they got back together in 2009. Simple Science is their first new studio recording in six years (the last being 2005's The Guilt Show). With four songs clocking in at just over 16 minutes, it almost feels like they are testing the waters first before jumping in and releasing a new album. The music also feels like it's testing the waters. Not enough energy to really get into and not enough emotion to actually sit back and listen. Sounds very middle-of-the-road to me.

www.myspace.com/thegetupkids
www.thegetupkids.com

THE MOONDOGGIES - You'll Find No Answers Here EP

2010-06-23T12:00:00.002-04:00

New 5-song EP from this Seattle (technically, Everett, Washington, but who likes technicalities these days) band who released their debut album, Don't Be A Stranger, in 2008. Their sophomore album, Tidelands, comes out on September 14th. Until then, if you see the Moondoggies on their tour with Blitzen Trapper, you can pick this up. The songs on here won't be appearing on the new album so you don't even have to worry about overlap. This is indie folk-rock with a heavy dose of country injected into the mix. Very laid-back stuff. Check out the vocal harmonies. I'd recommend it if you like bands like the aforementioned Blitzen Trapper or Band of Horses, Fleet Foxes, and the like.

www.myspace.com/themoondoggies
http://moondoggiesmusic.com

WE ARE SCIENTISTS - Barbara

2010-06-22T12:00:00.002-04:00

Fourth album from these guys. They've got a new drummer - Andy Burrows, formerly of Razorlight - for this release. Barbara is definitely a return to form for We Are Scientists. It may be just as good, if not better, than their debut album With Love And Squalor. We all know how many times I've played that record, so this isn't a compliment to be taken lightly. The songs on here are catchy and are prime examples of what danceable rock and roll party music should sound like. I especially enjoy this line in "Break It Up": "If no one wants to be up all night, what's the point in even going out?" Amen, brother, amen. Now let's drink up and dance.

www.myspace.com/wearescientists
www.wearescientists.com

[[Their website is awesome. The "Advice" section is inspiring.]]

BOUNCING SOULS - Ghosts On The Boardwalk

2010-06-21T12:00:00.001-04:00

Eighth full-length studio album from this band from New Brunswick, New Jersey. Last year, the band celebrated 20 years together by releasing a new song every month. This album collects those 12 songs so you can keep them all in one place. It's hard for me to believe that the band is actually that old because their music has such a youthful, energetic sound. Put punk, rock, pop, and fun in a blender and you will get The Bouncing Souls. They're definitely one of the best bands on the Warped Tour lineup - anyone want to take me?

www.myspace.com/bouncingsouls
www.bouncingsouls.com

THE BLACK KEYS - Brothers

2010-06-20T12:00:00.001-04:00

I've liked the Black Keys since at least my freshman year of college. I may have heard them before then, but I can't be sure. I have no idea what song I heard by them first but I do know that "Set You Free", off of Thickfreakness, is a song that goes on just about every mix CD I make. I saw them play to a packed house at Emo's on Sixth Street in Austin during SXSW 2008. My friend had never heard them before that night and left with a new favorite band. Just a few weeks ago I ran into an old acquaintance who mentioned seeing them just recently, opening up for Pearl Jam. He also had never heard of them before the show but left with a copy of Brothers and nothing but positive words to say about them. What doesn't shock me is that everyone I know who has heard the Black Keys loves them. What shocks me is that, back in 2008, my radio DJ buddy had never heard of them and two years later, there are still people who haven't heard of them. How a band this good slips under the radar of so many music fans is something I simply cannot comprehend.

I've made it pretty apparent where my feelings lay with this band but to sum it up: I dig how the Keys are combining blues with rock and garage. Every song on Brothers is great. Patrick Carney and Dan Auerbach have done it again - they keep putting out fantastic records. If you like the Black Keys, you ought to love this album. If you've never heard of the Black Keys, there's no better time to start listening than the present. If you don't like the Black Keys, please, slip quietly out the back door. You're not welcome at this party.

www.myspace.com/theblackkeys
www.theblackkeys.com

Follow The Yellow Brick Road!

2010-06-06T12:00:00.006-04:00

Yesterday I went to the Oz-Stravaganza festival in lovely Chittenango, NY. Chittenango was the birthplace of L. Frank Baum, the writer of The Wonderful Wizard of Oz. Along Main Street, the sidewalks are made with "yellow bricks". The signs welcoming you to the village have Oz characters on them that tell of Baum's relationship to Chittenango. Every year, the relatively small town throws a party to celebrate him and the story he created. Despite living near Chittenango my entire life, I have never gone to the festival until now. I hope to make it a yearly appointment from now on; it was a lot of fun. Here are some images of the festival's parade!

I love the old police cars in Chittenango. They remind me of The Blues Brothers.

Basically anyone dressed up as a Wizard of Oz character can march in the parade. This "Tin-Man" here was actually a "Tin-Woman". I saw her wandering around the vendor area after the parade.

This girl was dressed as Miss Gulch. While her bicycle wasn't period-appropriate, her costume was still very good and I have to give her her well-deserved kudos.

The Tin Man sat down after they passed us; he could hardly move under his bulky costume.

This was amazing.

"Big Bad Ben The Blonde Belgian" is a massive horse. Big Bad Ben lived up to his name when he left his own souvenir on the street some ways down from where we were.

The highlight for many festival-goers is seeing the actors who played the munchkins in the 1939 Wizard of Oz movie. Sadly, many of the "Munchkins" are no longer alive. There are only a few left and the parade was lucky enough to have a couple of them make appearances. One of the actors in the parade was Margaret Pellegrini, who played the "Flower Pot" Munchkin. She passed us on this golf cart, in fine spirits. Just reading her biography on the festival webpage gave me the feeling that she is an extraordinary woman.

One of the Scottish Bagpipe bands in the parade. I saw them last weekend in a Memorial Day parade but I don't think I could ever tire of seeing them. Bagpipe music reminds me of curling and I get a warm, fuzzy feeling inside.

I listen to B104.7 on the radio a lot. They play country music. Several floats used the concept of the house crushing the wicked witch but I liked this one.

I adore the King from the Burger King commercials so seeing him come walking up with Dorothy was hysterical. They were wearing signs on their backs as well. The King's read, "There's No Place Like Burger King" while Dorothy's said, "I Have A Feeling We're Not in Burger King Anymore". Cheesy advertising taking advantage of the parade? Sure. Awesome anyway? Very much so.

More guests in the parade were L. Frank Baum's great-grandson, Bob Baum, and Bob's wife, Clare.

The beginning of another bagpipe band. They were led by Dorothy and the Scarecrow. Note Dorothy's lack of ruby-red slippers.

Another guest of the parade: Caren Marsh-Doll. She was a movie actress in the 1940's, performed on Broadway, and appeared in the parade because she was Judy Garland's stand-in for the movie. I won't tell you how old she is because that wouldn't be polite, but I will say she looks decades younger than she is!

Dunkin' Donuts truck. They had nothing to do with the Wizard of Oz but I did like their characters.

Several people came out dressed up to promote next weekend's Civil War Weekend in Peterboro, NY.

The Basset Hound Rescue group was at the parade, and there were so many Basset Hounds that marched!

Not a Basset Hound; it's a Toto look-alike!

My souvenirs from the festival. The U.S. Postal Service was there offering special Oz-Stravaganza-themed postal cancellations so I got one of each.

For more information on Oz-Stravaganza, they have a website:
www.oz-stravaganza.com

From The Archive...

2010-05-27T12:00:00.000-04:00

I have a few posts on here that never got published and are labeled as "Drafts". I deleted the ones that will never see the light of the day but this one seems to be worth posting. When I was a DJ at a college radio station, I spent a lot of time (too much time) reviewing CDs for airplay. The reviews were supposed to be short yet informative. These three reviews are ones I did for the radio station back in March of 2009. Here they are, direct from the "archive".

____________________________________

THE BRAN FLAKES - I Have Hands
Cut-and-paste laptop music created with samples. Audio collage is a very good way to describe this. They're on the same label as Girl Talk (Illegal Art), but they don't use very much mainstream stuff, opting for samples that create somewhat of a child-like experience. Truly, this is music for the ADD generation.

YOUTH GROUP - The Night Is Ours
They're Aussies and this is the band's fourth full-length. This was recorded on a boat that was turned into a recording studio. Soaring indie-pop, like if U2 crossed with Death Cab For Cutie. "What is A Life?" was on the TV show Gossip Girl and they had a song on the now-defunct The O.C., so with that in mind, we can safely assume who their target audience is.

PANSY DIVISION - That's So Gay
Formed in San Francisco in 1991, this is their eighth studio album and first since 2003. This is their second record for the Alternative Tentacles label which is run by Jello Biafra. Biafra contributes vocals to the song "Average Men" on here which is one of the best tracks on the album. If you don't know, Pansy Division plays poppy punk-rock. Most of the songs are dirty and can't be played on the radio though!

PHILADELPHIA GRAND JURY - The Good News EP

2010-05-04T12:00:00.001-04:00

To start things off, they have a misleading name (apparently it's from a Fiery Furnaces song) since they are actually from Sydney, New South Wales. The band's lineup currently consists of Berkfinger, MC Bad Genius, and Calvin. I'm not making these names up. The sound mixes together pop, rock, punk, soul, indie, garage, and whatever other genres you can think of. These four songs are totally kickass.

Here are some reviews of the individual songs on the EP:
1. "The Good News": Kickass.
2. "Ready To Roll": Kickass.
3. "Going To The Casino (Tomorrow Night)": Kickass.
4. "Wet Winter Holiday (Mike FWD Remix)": Kickass.

"The Good News," the title track, is my favorite. Don't take my word for it though, listen to these guys. They are awesome.

www.myspace.com/philadelphiagrandjury
www.philadelphiagrandjury.com

AGAINST ME - I Was A Teenage Anarchist EP

2010-05-03T12:00:00.001-04:00

As a prelude to the June 8th release of their latest album, White Crosses, Against Me! give us this four-track EP. Two of the songs, "I Was A Teenage Anarchist" and "Rapid Decompression" are from the album and the other two, "One By One" and "Bitter Divisions", are B-Sides. I love the energy of this band and the grit in Tom Gabel's voice. They play (punk) rock that could fill up an arena, with everyone in attendance yelling the choruses out together with their fists in the air. I dig these guys a lot and am definitely looking forward to the new album. 2010 is shaping up to be a great year in music!

www.myspace.com/againstme
www.againstme.net

THE POSTELLES - White Night EP

2010-05-02T12:00:00.001-04:00

This is the best music the Kooks have released since their debut album!

Except, uh, this isn't the Kooks. This is the Postelles. They are a quartet from New York City and two of the songs on this EP were produced by Albert Hammond, Jr. Garage pop meets British Rock. Fantastic stuff. In fact, this is the best new music I've heard in a while and you can thank it for me coming back from my self-imposed hiatus. The only drag is that the EP only consists of three songs. The whole album is set to land on July 27th, keep your eyes and ears peeled for that one!

www.myspace.com/thepostelles
www.thepostelles.com

THE GASLIGHT ANTHEM - American Slang (single)

2010-04-03T12:00:00.000-04:00

"American Slang" is the title track to The Gaslight Anthem's third album, due to be released in June of this year. These New Jersey boys have found the formula for producing a sound that you could expect if Bruce Springsteen fronted a punk rock band. Upbeat rock and roll with heartfelt, slightly ragged vocals and catchy melodies. I'm a big fan of The Gaslight Anthem and this single shows that we can continue to expect good things from this band. I'm sure they're only going to get bigger and bigger - how could a band this awesome not?

www.myspace.com/thegaslightanthem
www.gaslightanthem.com

PAVEMENT - Quarantine The Past: The Best of Pavement

2010-03-28T00:28:00.003-04:00

Pavement. The kings of slacker rock. The definition of '90s indie rock. PAVEMENT.

I've been listening to the album and writing my review at the same time but I've just gone in and deleted everything I already wrote. Because what hasn't been said about Pavement already? Nothing I say here will be groundbreaking at all.

I guess I just want to let everyone know that this Best-Of now exists. But what's the point, really, of this record? If you like Pavement, you probably/should already know everything on here. If you don't like Pavement, you don't care about this release at all because it doesn't even contain any new material for you to potentially hate on. And if you've never heard of Pavement, you should start with their 1993 debut album, Slanted and Enchanted, not this gobbledy-gook of a record that ignores the chronological order of the band's releases. It's so hard to pick out what should be on a Pavement "Best-Of" (since they didn't have any huge hit singles); there's bound to be material on their actual albums that you like more than some of the selections on here.

"Silence Kid" is not on here, so clearly this collection is not "The Best of Pavement," as it advertises.

Also, I don't understand the cover art.

But Pavement is still awesome. Listen to their actual albums.

MATT and KIM - Matt and Kim; MATT and KIM - Grand

2010-03-14T12:00:00.001-04:00

Matt & Kim's self-titled debut was released in 2006, and Grand, the follow-up, was released in 2009. I'm reviewing them now because, while scouring the internet for shows coming to my area, I found that this Brooklyn-based duo is scheduled to play around here very soon. Not many bands playing original music play near where I live, so when there is one coming to town, I usually try to go. Unless the band is awful. I set out on a quest to see if Matt & Kim are awful or if I should plan to go check them out.

The overwhelming verdict after listening to their albums is that I am most definitely going to go to their show. Both of the albums are similar in sound, so no need to split up their reviews. Upbeat drumming, keyboards, a girl drummer (represent!), and a vocalist who sings like a way cooler version of John Darnielle, though still in a very nerd-esque manner? Count me in. The songs are fun and full of energy. I dig the lyrics, too. A better, more rocking version of Mates Of State. Matt & Kim are a band that I have overlooked the past few years and I am very happy to finally have introduced my ears to them.

I can only hope that the show is filled with lots of dancing, jumping around, singing out loud, and general hijinks. See you there, hipster friends.

www.myspace.com/mattandkim
www.mattandkimmusic.com

THIS PROVIDENCE - Who Are You Now?

2010-03-13T12:00:00.003-05:00

Who Are You Now? is This Providence's third full-length album. This Providence are a four-piece band out of Seattle, Washington, and this is their second album to be released by Fueled By Ramen records.

I was initially interested in checking out this album after hearing the fifth track on the album, "Keeping On Without You". That song reminded me of the songs on Sloan's Pretty Together, an album I hold near and dear to my heart. "Keeping On Without You" features melodic guitar with a peaceful male vocal and is one of those songs that you like immediately. While it's my favorite song on the album, there are a number of other good ones on here as well ("Squeaking Wheels and White Light," "Letdown," and "That Girl's A Trick" are just a few I especially liked).

The overall sound of This Providence could be described simply as power pop-rock. At times, the vocalist reminds me of what Jonathan Visger of Mason Proper would sound like if he fronted a pop-punk band (It's a strange comparison, I know). The songs are polished, catchy, and filled with hooks and anthemic choruses that will get you dancing and singing along right away. If you are a fan of any music in this genre, This Providence's newest will be a fine addition to your collection.

This Providence will be embarking on an extensive United States tour from March 25 through May 1, 2010; dates and venues may be viewed on their websites.

www.myspace.com/thisprovidence
www.thisprovidence.com

V/A - FANTASTIC MR. FOX - Original Soundtrack

2010-02-14T12:00:00.000-05:00

I'm not usually a big fan of movie soundtracks but I always enjoy the ones to Wes Anderson movies, probably because the songs work together to create an overall theme. The soundtrack to his latest movie, Fantastic Mr. Fox, is an enjoyable romp through whimsical sounds and it may also drill the chants of "Boggis, Bunce, Bean" into your head, never to escape from them.

The bulk of the soundtrack consists of compositions by Alexandre Desplat, who has also written scores for movies such as The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, The Luzhin Defence, The Queen, and many, many more (including a certain vampire movie installment). Desplat does a terrific job with these songs as they conjure up images of an idyllic everyday life that is filled with heroes and villains. At the same time, the music is playful and exudes a childish charm (after all, Fantastic Mr. Fox is based off of a children's book by Roald Dahl). Further research reveals that Desplat has received an Academy Award nomination for best original score for his work here.

The rest of the soundtrack includes a few cuts by The Beach Boys (always a good time), Burl Ives (they work perfectly with this kind of movie, plus I love the line "Saw a bear, comb his hair" in the song "Fooba Wooba John"), and George Delerue. The Wellingtons' "The Ballad of Davy Crockett", which I have only heard before in snippet version in the film Back To The Future, makes an appearance here as well, along with The Rolling Stones' "Street Fighting Man". We are also given tracks by The Bobby Fuller Four, Nancy Adams, Art Tatum, and Jarvis Cocker. Cocker's track is probably the only song in my iTunes library that has a jaw harp on it. I have no idea what he is singing, but I like it.

I know some people panned the movie but I adored it (The DVD comes out on March 23 - mark your calendars or make an appointment in your Blackberry). The soundtrack is an important part of the movie and it works well on its own as well. Boggis, Bunce, and Bean.

www.alexandredesplat.net
www.fantasticmrfoxmovie.com

CHRIS JOSS - Monomaniacs Vol. 1

2010-02-13T12:00:00.000-05:00

Monomaniacs Vol. 1 is the sixth album from Chris Joss, who is originally from France. It's another highly entertaining instrumental affair from Joss. No lyrics here, just 12 awesome, funk-influenced, 70's-vibed cuts. There's enough sounds mixed in to keep anyone occupied for a while trying to pick through all the layers. There's even some Indian sitar thrown in on the track "Kali Flowers". Highly recommended for anyone who's got a soul and likes to groove.

Just take a look at the album cover, you'll know if this is the kind of music for you or not. And if you still don't know after looking, try it out anyway.

www.myspace.com/chrisjoss
chrisjoss.free.fr

ERNEST GONZALES - Been Meaning To Tell You

2010-02-07T12:00:00.000-05:00

When I first heard of this album, it was described as "electronic." I haven't been listening to a lot of "electronic" music lately but the cover art was too amazing for me to pass this up without a listen. The artwork was made by having a number of artists each illustrate what they saw after listening to one track off of the album and the end result for the cover combined all of the images. Very cool stuff.

Now that I've talked about the cover, how to describe the music? It is electronic, but there are also guitars on this record. I'm sure this music could be played live by a band of talented musicians. The music doesn't feel overprocessed like so many electronic records I sat through last year. Instead, it feels lush and warm: a jungle of melodic sounds. For over a year I have been searching for music in the same realm as B. Fleischmann's The Humbucking Coil: great beats, great melodies, no lyrics. This album illustrates what I've been looking for.

There's a number of great songs on this album so it's hard to pick a favorite one. I love how "Falling Asleep To The Glow Of The Television" makes me feel like I'm playing a classic Nintendo video game. "We Can Live In The Forest" is upbeat and would be suitable to play for a whirlwind romance with the couple falling in love. The album was made with Ernest's wife in mind and this track probably has something to do with their love. "When You Are Lost I Will Find You" is the epitome of the B. Fleischmann chilled-out vibe I've been searching for. I could go on and on about each of these tracks and the way they make me feel and think but instead I'll just recommend that you have a listen to the album and see what you feel. I don't think you'll be disappointed.

Been Meaning To Tell You is scheduled to be released on February 9, on Exponential Records. Exponential Records was founded in 2002 by Gonzales and DJ Jester the Filipino Fist (I'm not making that name up). This is Gonzales's second or third full-length album, I can't figure out which, and he has also released music under the moniker Theory Of Everything. Now go get this album, why are you even still reading this post?!

www.myspace.com/theoryofeverything
www.beenmeaningtotellyou.com
www.antipop.net/expblog/(Exponential Records site)

COLD WAR KIDS - Behave Yourself

2010-01-31T12:00:00.002-05:00

Savvy Slacker Sounds readers may recall that in 2008, I reviewed the latest album by the Cold War Kids, Loyalty To Loyalty. If you don't remember, I will sum up the review: I did not like that release from these four boys from Fullerton, California.

Fast forward a little over a year; I find myself with a copy of the Cold War Kids' latest EP, Behave Yourself. I decide to give it a shot because it's just a tad over 14 minutes in length; I might as well throw it on while I do some chores. I don't know if my taste has changed since that last album review, or if they have just gotten a lot better, but I find this to be a decent release. Many of the same points I raised on that last review appear again on this one but in a different context; they are strengths instead of weaknesses.

The sound on here is one of soulful, indie rock. It seems like Nathan Willett has gotten comfortable with the sound of his own singing voice and is no longer trying to ape Thom Yorke (he still sounds like the dude from Ghostland Observatory, but not in an annoying way). He injects emotion into his words and when he sings, "Lord, have mercy on me!" in "Sermons," it sounds like he means it. While listening to this EP, I feel like the CWK have turned into a less-Southern, more soul-influenced version of the Kings of Leon. Surely that will be to their benefit as the Kings are currently on top of the music world, and the songs on this EP are better than the songs on the Kings' last release, Only By The Night.

It's good to give bands second chances; they just might surprise you with how much they've grown into their sound.

www.myspace.com/coldwarkids
www.coldwarkids.com

NOVELS

2010-01-30T12:00:00.001-05:00

NOVELS is a project conceived by several Canadian dudes who range in popularity in the indie music scene. Personally, I only recognized the names Graham Wright and Luke LaLonde. The other three guys are Will Currie, Dean Marino, and Jay Sadlowski. In January 2009, these lads and some other musically-inclined people got together in Toronto and recorded an EP in one recording session. The end result, which is now available, is NOVELS.

Consisting of five songs, NOVELS clocks in at under 12 minutes.

-The first song, "This Wouldn't Be The Last Time," is two minutes of bouncy, jangly pop music. Very catchy, this opening song is probably my favorite of the bunch.

-The next track, "Mr. Foster's Teenage Daughter," reminds me of 50's pop and is a song you might hear for a slow-dance at a prom. Great piano intro and I love the harmonies ("ooh-wah-ooh") on this song.

-"Big Run" is the third track and I'm certain this is sung by Luke LaLonde of Born Ruffians. I'd recommend this track for people who loved Clap Your Hands Say Yeah's first album.

-"Record in Hand" is much slower, tempo-wise, than the previous tracks. Laid-back lounge indie-pop.

-The EP closes with "No Hard Feelings," which is sung by Tokyo Police Club's keyboardist, Graham Wright (I've just discovered that Graham has some solo music out which I hope to review on here in a future post). This last song is similar to the other four songs: jangly pop that goes by so quickly that even the track's runtime of 1 minute, 44 seconds, seems exaggerated.

My overall impression of these five songs is that it is a cohesive set of indie pop which everyone should listen to at least once. The good news is that NOVELS is available as a free download from the guys who made it. They are interested in having people burn copies of the music and give them away to other people so that their music may be heard. They also had a small number of limited-edition NOVELS notebooks with cd's included made up which they will give away for free. It's a great way to promote not just the music on NOVELS, but also their respective bands, and I wish them well in doing so. Now go download the EP and give it a listen.

www.okaynovels.com

SURFER BLOOD - Astro Coast

2010-01-29T12:00:00.002-05:00

The debut from the West Palm Beach, Florida band. I got this album to review a few weeks ago but was delayed by other projects so I haven't been able to listen until now. In those short few weeks, it seems to me that the band has been labeled as the next big thing and have gotten a lot more popular.

I finally found the time to listen to Astro Coast and I hear a blend of garage pop/psychedelia/shoegaze/rock. I understand that "Swim" is the album's single and that isn't shocking; it's catchy and has a simple chorus that you'll be able to sing along to before the end of the song. I can see the big appeal to this album: it combines the pop sensibilities of a band like Vampire Weekend with the fuzz of The Jesus and Mary Chain. While so many bands are choosing to go one way (indie pop) or the other (shoegaze/experimental), Surfer Blood choose to straddle the line.

Final impression: I think some of the songs are great (album opener "Floating Vibes" and the aforementioned "Swim" make for a fine 1-2 punch) but by the end of the album the songs all seem to blend into one. I wish there was a bit more variety, is what I'm alluding to. Even so, decent.

www.myspace.com/surferblood
www.surferblood.blogspot.com

PANTS YELL - Received Pronunciation

2010-01-16T12:00:00.002-05:00

Pants Yell! are from Cambridge, near Boston, and they formed in 2003. In the past they had a girl drummer but it seems the trio is now comprised of all dudes. If I understand correctly, Received Pronunciation is their fourth full-length and their first release for Slumberland Records. I saw this band perform in Rochester in 2006 and while I was most impressed with their bass player's good looks, I also recall them having a very poppy, "twee" sound. That sound is present on this album so I must remember their gig well enough. The nine-song album clocks in at just over 26 minutes but nonetheless is packed chock full of upbeat indie pop. The last song on this album, "To Take", is probably my favorite as it has a very nice instrumental ending. The vocalist is kind of wimpy but I suppose that is to be expected with this type of music. If you like wussy pop music you'd probably like this, it's good.

www.myspace.com/pantsyellmusic

SPOON - Transference

2010-01-10T12:00:00.001-05:00

Let me preface this post by saying that I love Spoon. They are the band that I hear whenever I think of my freshman year of college. I fell in love with them that year and I was constantly listening to them. During my junior year of college I got to see them play in Austin, their hometown, at SXSW 2008. The crowd was huge, perhaps because it was a free show, but also no doubt because more and more people were discovering just how good Spoon is. And damn they are good.

Transference is the seventh studio full-length from Spoon. Spoon have been hailed as the kings of minimal rock 'n' roll, and this album has them maintaining that stance. The music isn't minimal like lo-fi music is often said to be; it is minimal because they don't heap on layers of unnecessary sounds. This results in more stripped down songs than you might normally hear from a 'rock band', but that doesn't mean it's not rock and roll. I don't see any of the songs on here being a breakout hit like "The Underdog" off of their last album, Ga Ga Ga Ga Ga, was, but the 11 songs on here are still satisfying and show a band who is known for its consistency continue that trend. While I'm pleased with this release, after only a few listens, it doesn't knock things out of the park for me just yet.

www.myspace.com/spoon
www.spoontheband.com

VAMPIRE WEEKEND - Contra

2010-01-09T12:00:00.000-05:00

I'm sure there's already a million blog posts out there about this album, so I may as well throw in my two cents. I have somehow managed to avoid all reviews regarding this album, perhaps by unintentionally avoiding all music sites lately, so my opinion remains untarnished.

Contra is the sophomore album from everyone's favorite Ivy-League indie popsters, Vampire Weekend. It is very sonically similar to their self-titled debut album, though this release has them experimenting with new effects and faster tempos. The album shows a slightly more mature sound but it is not as instantly hummable as their first. I think that with time, however, it will be appreciated more than their first. It's pretty great. Overall I like this album and it will be a good way to keep warm during this cold winter we are having - it is sweet, summery pop music, with just enough complexity to make sure you're not bored but aren't overwhelmed either.

www.myspace.com/vampireweekend
www.vampireweekend.com

BLINK 182 - Blink 182

2009-11-15T12:00:00.000-05:00

Yes, I know that this album was released in 2003. However, recently, it's been playing a lot while I'm at home so I figured I might as well write about it. I don't know what it is about Blink 182 that makes me like this album so much, but I love it. It might be that Travis Barker, whether you love him or hate him, is one of the best drummers in recent years. His drumming is intricate, adding a whole new layer to the music and fleshing out the sound for the trio. It might be that they have two different vocalists, Mark Hoppus and Tom DeLonge, who can alternate between sounding heartbroken, angry, giddy, and a wide range of other emotions. It might be that the simple lyrical content actually makes the songs stronger; they are easy to relate to and won't make you scratch your head wondering what they really mean. You just listen and bob your head and hope that the energy in these songs is transferred to you by some sort of cosmic intervention. Or it might be that these three guys write some very catchy pop songs which I just can't stop listening to. Yeah, that might be it.

www.myspace.com/blink182
www.blink182.com

CHROMEO - Night By Night (Single)

2009-10-14T12:00:00.000-04:00

The first new Chromeo song since the 2007 release of their sophomore album, Fancy Footwork! The sound of "Night By Night" is instantly recognizable as Chromeo: upbeat, synth-driven pop/electrorock with Dave One's smooth vocals and Pee Thug contributing vocals through his vocoder. Lots of fun; you will surely want to put this on at your next dance party. If this song is any indication, their next album is going to be even more awesome than their past two (even if you didn't think that could be possible).

www.myspace.com/chromeo
www.chromeo.net

TODOR KOBAKOV - Pop Music

2009-10-11T12:00:00.001-04:00

While you may not recognize the name, if you're familiar with the bands on CMJ's charts, there's a good chance you've heard the work of Todor Kobakov already. Born in Bulgaria, Kobakov emigrated to Canada when he was sixteen with many of his family members (his mother stayed in Bulgaria). Currently based out of Toronto, Kobakov has had his string arrangements featured on the second album by Stars, Set Yourself On Fire, and has played keys for Luke Doucet, Emily Haines and the Soft Skeleton, Small Sins, and many others. Pop Music is his solo debut and showcases his chillingly beautiful classical piano compositions. The album is instrumental save for two songs, "Carpe Diem," which features the vocals of Emily Haines, and "Loving Hands," on which Tunde Adebimpe of TV on the Radio provides vocals. If you enjoy piano, there's a very good chance you will enjoy this album. Kobakov is a very talented musician and this release definitely demonstrates that.

www.myspace.com/todorkobakov
http://todor.ca

FRANK TURNER - Poetry of the Deed

2009-10-02T12:00:00.002-04:00

Born in Bahrain, the London-raised punk rock troubadour presents his third full-length album. He's released several other solo EPs and compilations and has played in the bands Kneejerk and Million Dead as well. He plays punk rock with mixed acoustic and electric instrumentation and meaningful lyrics. The sound is similar to that of Billy Bragg. I highly recommend this album, it's great.

http://www.myspace.com/frankturner
www.frank-turner.com/

Hello There Ladies and Gentlemen...

2009-09-09T00:09:00.003-04:00

It's been a while, but Slacker Sounds should be returning now that the summer is over. Maybe not a post every weekday like before; I'm going to shoot for updates about once a week. With that in mind, I need music to review. If you are a promoter, band manager/member, an underground music kingpin, or whatever, get in touch. My email is slackersounds[at]gmail[dot]com . I like rockandroll and punk rock the most but am always open to other genres. I usually only review full-length LPs or EPs but sometimes will check out singles if they're worthwhile. Just please don't send me Myspace links because my computer doesn't like Myspace (and I really don't either).

Rockandroll,

The Slacker

slackersounds[at]gmail[dot]com

ANDY WERTH - Burn The Maps And Bury The Compass

2009-05-01T12:00:00.001-04:00

From Seattle, this is the debut album for Andy Werth and his band. The sound is pop rock/power-pop/rock with male vocals that are reminiscent of the sound of Aqueduct's. I heard Andy's Seeing Stars EP in 2008 and really liked that and I like this album, too. Fun, carefree tunes and many of the tracks have horns. Recommended if you like Aqueduct, Sloan, the New Pornographers.

www.myspace.com/andywerth
www.andywerth.com

LEFT ALONE - Left Alone

2009-04-30T12:00:00.001-04:00

California 3-piece gives us their fourth full-length. Fun, upbeat punk with ska influences. Recommended if you like new-school punk and The Clash ("Sad Story" even seems to have a reference to the Clash).

www.myspace.com/leftalonepunx
www.leftalone.net

DUSTY RHODES AND THE RIVER BAND - Palace and Stage

2009-04-29T12:00:00.001-04:00

Second full-length for the Californian band. They might be on the Side One Dummy label, but they're far from your average punk band; they combine elements of folk, country, classic rock, punk, and more to create a highly enjoyable sound. They have toured with bands like Flogging Molly, Dirty Pretty Things, and Gogol Bordello. Their singer often made me think of what Aerosmith's Steven Tyler might sound like if he had grown up in the Southern United States. Cool stuff.

www.myspace.com/dustyrhodes
www.dustyrhodesmusic.com

THE FRESH AND ONLYS - The Fresh and Onlys

2009-04-28T12:00:00.002-04:00

San Francisco band's debut. Reverby 60's influenced pop/garage rock/pscyh with male vocals and female backing vox. Overall really cool. Recommended if you like Thee Oh Sees, Raveonettes, and similar bands.

www.myspace.com/thefreshonlys
thefreshandonlys.com

THE RIPPERS - Why Should I Care About You?

2009-04-27T12:00:00.001-04:00

Ripper I, Ripper II, Ripper III, and Ripper IV are from Sardinia, Italy. Their newest album (to date) packs twelve songs into thirty-three minutes of kick-ass garage punk/rock, a bit of harmonica for some added awesomeness, and Ripper IV spewing out lyrics that are difficult to decipher. They seem like the kind of guys who might spit on you from the stage, then have a beer with you at the bar afterwards and laugh about it. Then somehow they would wind up going home with the girlfriends of you and your friends. They're just that cool.

www.myspace.com/therippersinaction
http://spazioinwind.libero.it/therippers/index.html

COCKTAIL SLIPPERS - Saint Valentine's Day Massacre

2009-04-24T12:00:00.001-04:00

This is the third album (and second for Wicked Cool) for the all-female band from Oslo, Norway. They play a mix of powerpop and garage rock with lots of girl-group harmonizing. Some of the artists they remind me of are the girls in the B-52's, Chrissie Hynde of the Pretenders, and the Pipettes - but the Cocktail Slippers are unlike the Pipettes because they play their own music, and have cooler names (Sugar Cane, Modesty Blaze, Rocket Queen, Squirrel and Bella Donna). Little Steven wrote the title track for the album and also "Heard You Got A Thing For Me" and contributed some bongo playing; this band is also further proof that he picks the coolest bands on the planet for his Wicked Cool label. Awesome!

www.myspace.com/cocktailslippers
www.cocktailslippers.com

ART BRUT - Art Brut Vs. Satan

2009-04-23T12:00:00.000-04:00

Art Brut Vs. Satan is the British quintet's third full-length; this one is produced by Frank Black aka Black Francis aka Charles Michael Kittridge Thompson IV aka the lead singer for the Pixies. We get eleven songs of fun, upbeat British rock/post-punk goodness filled with witty lyrics (many referencing other bands, songs, and music in general, along with several other pop culture references) that are delivered in singer Eddie Argos' trademark deadpan talking style. I've liked this band since I heard them in 2005 on their debut, and this album is no exception to their awesomeness.

www.myspace.com/artbrut
www.artbrut.org.uk

FITZ AND THE TANTRUMS - Songs For A Breakup, Volume 1

2009-04-22T12:00:00.001-04:00

Born in France but raised in Los Angeles, here comes Fitz (and the Tantrums). This EP of 5 songs is said to have been recorded in Fitz's living room using only one microphone and written about an ex-girlfriend. The sound is one of poppy soul with a retro vibe that recalls the 60's heyday of soul. Even the album cover is made to look like it's old. It's a cool record and the songs are put together nicely.

www.myspace.com/fitzsoulmusic

PETER BJORN AND JOHN - Living Thing

2009-04-21T12:00:00.000-04:00

The Swedish trio's third album, following their debut, Writer's Block and their instrumental album, Seaside Rock. This album is more on the experimental side of indie pop as they branch out into sparser, stripped down songs that still exhibit a decisive 60's pop influence. Nothing on here is as poppy as their hits "Young Folks" and "Amsterdam," but there is still plenty of good stuff to be had.

www.myspace.com/peterbjornandjohn
www.peterbjornandjohn.com

METRIC - Fantasies

2009-04-20T12:00:00.000-04:00

The fourth full-length for the Brooklyn-born, Canadian-raised quartet. This set seems very polished and glossy to me (maybe a bit too much?) and is quite heavy on the synths. They're still in fine form and Emily Haines sure does have a good voice, but there aren't many songs to dance to, which makes me sad.

www.myspace.com/metric
www.ilovemetric.com

JUNIOR BOYS - Begone Dull Care

2009-04-17T12:00:00.001-04:00

Third full-length for the Canadian duo of Jeremy Greenspan and Matthew Didemus. It's really laid-back electropop with lots of blips, bleeps, and bloops. The vocals are sung/whispered in a manner so that they sound very intimate. Recommended if you like Hot Chip's slower tracks. The album title references the abstract animated film of Norman McLaren, a pioneering animator and also an electronic composer.

www.myspace.com/juniorboys
www.juniorboys.net

WAU Y LOS ARRGHS!!! - VIVEN!!!

2009-04-09T12:00:00.001-04:00

Wau Y Los Arrrghs!!! are from Valencia, Spain and sing mostly in Spanish, though they do have a few lyrics in English as well. They play garage rock, so far this is the best garage rock album I have heard this year! They rock. Awesome.

www.myspace.com/wauylosarrrghs

THE LOVETONES - Dimensions

2009-03-19T12:00:00.001-04:00

Dimensions is the Australian band's fourth album. Frontman Matthew Tow was previously in the band Drop City, recorded several solo albums under the name Colorsound, and also played guitar for the Brian Jonestown Massacre on one of their tours and wrote two songs for the BJM's album This Is Our Music. The Lovetones play psychedelic rock/pop that has a very distinct 60's influence. They're alright.

www.myspace.com/thelovetones
www.thelovetones.com

VOX JAGUARS - Vox Jaguars EP

2009-03-18T12:00:00.001-04:00

This is the debut EP from these four Californian boys, two of which are still in high school. They're a very young band and have a lot of room to grow, but their first release shows them as a band that should definitely be watched. It's fuzzy, rough around the edges, lo-fi garage/punk/rock. The singer has a punk-rocker's voice that could be the make-it-or-break-it factor for you. Overall, this EP is a damn good way to spend 15 minutes and 39 seconds.

www.myspace.com/thevoxjaguars

THE TAKEOVER UK - Running With The Wasters

2009-03-17T12:00:00.001-04:00

The boys from Pittsburgh (who have a British name, sound, and album title) present their first full-length album. Upbeat rockandroll/power-pop with a bit of a punk edge makes up most of the album, with a few slower tracks as well (including one that has a noticeable country influence to it). They're fun and seem like the kind of kids you'd want to end up at a wild party with, yeah, why not? If you like rock music in the vein of The Fratellis, The Kooks, and their peers, you should like The Takeover UK.

www.myspace.com/thetakeoveruk
www.rykodisc.com/thetakeoveruk/bio