138 posts tagged “indie”

I’m not going to blame my lack of updates on the swine flu.  That would be wrong, sleazy, and downright unconstitutional.

Now that I got that off my chest, I’m happy to report that my cleaning ventures have been particularly fruitful.  No, I didn’t find that copy of Tremors II: Aftershocks that you claim I never returned (let it go, bro).  I did, however, dig up the following dusty gems:

Wheat – White Ink Black Ink

Americans like short things:  lines, books, hair, conversations, etc.  Sometimes even using full sentences takes too long; it’s why we invented Twitter.  Thankfully, there is a band called Wheat.  Not only is their name economical, but more than half of White Ink Black Ink is under the four minute mark.  You just can’t argue with odds like those.  Each track loyally embraces the simplicities of song craft and the complexities of song experience; meaning, the album will probably appeal to those of us that appreciate music straight up, minus additives like weird stupid metaphors and lengthy experimental escapades.  Of course there are flaws to this logic, the most obvious being 2009’s love affair with electro beats and dance-driven, overproduced indiepop.  The kids want to move and while White Ink has no shortage of catchy hooks and gung ho knocks, the resulting mood does not exactly inspire bods to hula, which is basically a compliment but commercially a loss.  At its best, the album sounds vaguely like the byproduct of a musical three-way:  the cool nonchalance of slacker rock + timeless anthemic sway + a dash of requisite “indie” flair (the indefinable “all spice”).  Suggested tracks:  the first half of the album.
Website / Myspace

UltraChorus – Ultra-Def

Speaking of electro beats:  Minneapolis electronica duo UltraChorus recently released Ultra-Def, a brain cell-shattering smattering of slick robot grooves.  This ain’t music for your grandma (unless grandma gets her freak on).  As I mentioned in my review of Words Kept Talking (7” single), being an electro-lovin’ musician in Minnesota is akin to being a minority in Minnesota:  you’re in the minority.  UltraChorus may very well be a shining fiber optic star in a universe of bland, denim-encased chunks of coal, and the world…of Minnesotans might never know.  Such a shame because Ultra-Def is solid material.  It pumps you up, but not in a Jock Jams sort of way, and warms the innards without leaving a metallic aftertaste.  A distinct rhythmic base connects each track without distorting identity; this attention to continuity gives us simpletons something to hold on to, a sort of symbolic Roller Coaster lap bar.  Suggested tracks:  “Words Kept Talking,” “Houseparty 5” and the super-mixed-everything-but-the-kitchen-sink “Yucatan Peninsula.”
Website / Myspace

Kordan – Fantasy Nation

Wow, Arthur Eisele (Kordan) sure knows how to befuddle a critic.  Is Fantasy Nation a concept album?  Or is it dreamy electro-pop disguised as a concept album?  Maybe it’s a soundtrack to a film not yet written:  something Japanese but inspired by French New Wave—a love story, perhaps, set in the stylish future, where the girls look like Francoise Hardy and the boys busy their arms with battered anthologies of 19^th century existentialism.  Something like that.  Honestly, the effort required to simplify Fantasy Nation­—to break it down, if you will—seems pointless, irreverent even.  The album succeeds as a fluid movement, a continuous aural flow.  What it isn’t (and, incidentally, what may hinder mainstream marketing) is track-driven.  Sure, I’ve picked a favorite (the wispy, Gainsbourg/Birkin-esque “Slouchy Girl”) but that’s just personal preference and an ear for melancholy vocals.  As an objective writer, I’d advise readers to avoid listening to Fantasy on shuffle mode; fight the urge to single-song download, readers (you wouldn’t treat In the Aeroplane over the Sea in such a defiling manner, would you?).  Suggested tracks:  listen to the whole damn EP (EP = short and sweet).
Website / Myspace

As usual, check with news.weheartmusic.com for even more news and announcements.

RAKES BREAKS
www.therakes.co.uk

I got a note from the Astralwerks band Free Energy saying that some of their shows were canceled due to the fact that the Rakes broke up. That was a bit of a shocker, considering that I thought the Rakes, along with Bloc Party, were a really successful band with top 40 singles.

Here is an excerpt from the statement from the band, dated October 22^nd:

The Rakes have always been very adamant and proud of the fact that we give 100% to every gig we’ve ever played. If we can’t give it everything then we won’t do it. That was the rule we set ourselves from day one. After much deliberation we have come to the shared conclusion that we can’t give it 100% anymore and regret to announce that The Rakes are calling it a day.

A total of 10 dates were canceled by Free Energy, but here is the new dates (note: Minneapolis is canceled):

FREE ENERGY TOUR DATES:
10/24: London, UK @ Cargo (DFA Night)
10/26: London, UK @ Barfly
10/27: London, UK @ Rough Trade Records (Hoxton) In-Store
(Early Show)/Waterats (Late Show)
10/28: London, UK @ Windmill
11/11: Boston, MA @ Great Scott
11/19: Dallas, TX @ The Cavern
11/20: Austin, TX @ The Mohawk
11/21: Baton Rouge, LA @ Spanish Moon
11/22: Atlanta, GA @ The Earl
11/23: Chapel Hill, NC @ Local 506
11/24: Baltimore, MD @ Ottobar
11/25: Washington, DC @ DC9, set TBA
11/27: Philadelphia, PA @ Kung Fu Necktie
11/28: New York, NY @ Santos Party House

IT'S NOT ME, IT'S YOU
lilyallenmusic.com

Speaking of splitting, Lily Allen will be splitting from her record label, EMI. Allen, who recently had that insert-mouth-in-foot moment when she had nothing but disdain her fans for sharing her music, is to set up her own record label. She's currently has no plans on touring or promoting her latest album, It's Not Me, It's You and have pretty much abandoned being on the internet.

Quote:

I've thrown away my laptop and I haven't got a Blackberry. I've cut myself off and it's been brilliant so far.

Ironic since her career started because of her fame on myspace.

MIS-SHAPES, MISTAKES, MISQUOTES (or alternate title, EVEN FURTHER COMPLICATIONS)
jarviscocker.net

Not breaking up, Jarvis Cocker was recently quoted by People Magazine as having said:

Glastonbury means an awful lot to me, I would love to play there again. We've talked about it, there we go, there'll be a band reunion.

That sparked a slew of rumors that Pulp were reforming for Glasto 2010.

Unfortunately, as quick as the rumor started, it was also swiftly put to an end when Jarvis came out to say that "Pulp have no plans to get back together".

Someone asked me if I fancied playing at the 40th anniversary of Glastonbury, I said yes, they twisted that into a 'Pulp reform' story. It's not true.

THE LAST TEN SECONDS OF LIFE
www.itsmorrisseyworld.com

Speaking of further complications: It's widely reported that Morrissey collapse on the floor on the opening song, "This Charming Man" at Oasis Leisure Centre, due to breathing difficulties.

Although, NME said Morrissey to resume tour in London following onstage collapse, I suspect there will be even more cancellations in the future. Morrissey's has always been notorious for cancelling shows, due to illness and/or unexplained circumstances. I have seen Morrissey live before, but my original ticket to see him in somewhen 1994 was dashed when he canceled that show in Los Angeles. I believe we ponied up $75 per ticket (that was like a billion dollars back then).

Of course, none of this compare to the fan outage of Denny offering free burgers to fans who bought tickets to see Morrissey. Morrissey, as you know, is famous for being an advocator of vegetarianism.

Jarvis - Dont Let Him Waste Your Time

If you know me in person, you've probably heard me drunkenly describe the first time I laid eyes on this man. In fact, you'd be lucky to have not heard my story at least thrice. 1995? 2am? Two teenage girls watching Rage on a Saturday night (surprisingly, we weren't trying to get into some pub somewhere, considering the city we grew up in - only I'm allowed to bash Newcastle because I'm from there), only to be presented with a film clip for what is still one of my favourite songs, Babies. 

Jarvis Cocker: this pasty, lanky man from Sheffield, what is it about him?... it's not a traditional attractiveness; it's a combination of about seven things (give or take a few). That awkwardness, those frantic dance moves, and of course... those flailing limbs.
You have to hand it to him, others would have given up long ago, but Jarvis stuck it out. I probably don't need to say it, but Mr Cocker started his career as the frontman for the amazing English band, Pulp. If you are familiar with them, i reckon like me, you probably first heard them around 1995/1996? But NO! Pulp's first gig was at a Rotherham Arts Centre in July 1980 (the month I was born - yeah scary). So really, they'd been at it 16 years until they released Different Class, causing a vast number of people to jump on the (literal) bandwagon.

My theory for why these songs are instantly likable is not just because of the catchy tunes, but because Jarvis has  an amazing knack to lyric writing. He has an acute talent for writing songs with lyrics that are clearly from experience as opposed to the usual "I'm pining for lost love" or "I've got a girlfriend, she's super lovely, she's not yours, you lose" drivel. These are all songs that the average person can identify with in some way or another. Another thing that I'm sure I mention a lot, is that I love the fact that if you happen to be listen to any Jarvis-written songs on earphones... you have to be quite careful who you sing out loud (and how loud) in front of.... "so she bought a toy that can reach the places he never goes".

I can't help but think that if Pulp kept on going at it, it wouldn't have ended gracefully in any way (although I'll probably get physically beaten for saying that Pulp aren't together anymore by a certain crazed Pulp fan i know). Anyway, i could talk about Pulp all day.... the purpose of this here article today, is to talk about Jarvis and his solo albums. 

Jarvis

Just when we'd all thought we'd never hear from him again 2007 saw the release of Jarvis's debut solo album... imaginatively named "Jarvis". It's brilliant because of the fact that the tracks are not too different to Pulp, both musically and lyrically, but it's also great because it's just Jarvis, no frills. That's right... you still have to think twice before singing some of the lyrics out loud in public places around pensioners, but there's also excessive potential for some of that old school loungeroom underpants dancing we all love (well... I love).

The songs themselves are less poppy than Pulp, a bit more laid back and slightly depressive. Without a doubt, there are a few gems that need to be mentioned. 

Dont Let Him Waste Your Time, is one that catches my attention. As a "lady" who is getting on a bit and being occasionally hassled by a certain nanna who is constantly wondering "am i going to ever see you get married?", the lyrics of this song grab me, and more than anything, make me laugh. I think nanna and Jarvis could have a good conversation about the topic though.

Black Magic is another that stands out. This song has probably the best chorus on the album. It's one that slightly sneaks up on you. The versus are quiet and minimalist, but the chorus then hits you, loudly.... nice. Gosh, I'm listening to the album as i write this and although i loved the album before, I'm listening and picking up on things I'd never noticed before.

The song that only made is as the "secret song" at the end of the album is probably one of my favourites. Even though it contains the only word i will not say out loud, Cunts Are Still Running The World, is both catchy and speaks the truth lyrically. It's true, when are nice people going to get a look in?

"Sometimes a well chosen swear word is the only thing that will do" Well put, Mr Cocker.

Jarvis Cocker - Angela

Jarvis Cocker

The newer album, Future Complications, is his second helping. I realise that it's not overly new anymore, but with Jarvis imminent arrival on our fair shores someone needs to mention it (although, I'm sure I'm not the first). Further Complications is much the same as the previous album. With all those years of musical experience, there's not a whole lot of growing musically that Jarvis can do. He's got the whole "writing catchy songs" thing down pat. I would like to say that Further Complications has a different feel to Jarvis, it's slightly more dramatic sounding. More of those sad sounding minor chords, slower and more quiet.

The first single, Angela, hated by some, loved by others, could easily be a Pulp song. In my opinion, it's quite danceable, but the element that makes it Pulp-esque is the subject matter. "Making four-fifty an hour, Complimentary shower" Is it what I think it's about? (I'm always the first person to miss the point)

I must admit though, reluctantly, that there are a few songs on Further Complications that almost bore me (this is a product of my lack of attention span rather than the songs actually being boring). Slush is long and slow. It's not a bad song by any means, it's just a bit too mellow for it's own good. You're In My Eyes.... what's going on there? My dislike of this song could have something to do with the disco-ness of it all. Admittedly, it is quite danceable, so it claws back a few points in that respect.

Listening to both of these albums, I feel as though I'm slightly seeing into the private life of Jarvis. I wonder "Did fat children really take his life?". But what about the beard, Jarvis? That's the real question.

Tour dates?.. oh yeah, he's coming to Australia...

9 Nov - Village Underground, London

10 Nov - Village Underground, London

11 Nov - Village Underground, London

2 Dec - Town Hall (Wellington), Wellington

4 Dec - Powerstation, Auckland

5 Dec - Hi Fi Bar, Brisbane

7 Dec - Metro (Sydney), Sydney

8 Dec - Metro Freo, Perth

10 Dec - HQ, Adelaide

11 Dec - Forum (Melbourne), Melbourne

12 Dec - Meredith Festival, Meredith

More info?

http://www.jarviscocker.net/

That's all?

sally@weheartmusic.com

Probably a fitting band name for a sunday-written review. 

Yawn. 

Doesn't really conjure up images of excitement, does it? I nearly wrote this band off before even listening to them (a very sally thing to do). Well... look at the cover art.... i thought "ooh, some sort of horrendous metal band". Who ever said i jump to weird conclusions?

Not a great deal of information on these guys (maybe my detective skills aren't up to scratch), but according to their MySpace page, they come from Chicago, are influenced by after-birth and biblical murals, and used to be called Metrovox, but have since changed direction musically and hence required a new name. I wouldn't say Yawn is a fitting name, but who am i to make that call?

As far as i can tell, this is their self-titled debut EP. The music? Simply, it's indie pop. I wont say cute, but there's some really quirky, but well put together songs. The music itself is thick, layers of indie guitar pop intertwine with a whole realm of unusual sounds (I'm sure there's a kookaburra in there somewhere - mmm well known as the greatest songbird in history *ahem*).  Seems a bit novelty-esque; a bit Vampire Weekendy, very similar sounding vocals, same sort of whimsical feeling, same bouncy beat, but just that little bit more quirky. Favourite track? Empress. Makes me feel as though I'm on a beach drinking cocktails out of coconuts (not that I've ever done that.... or really want to, come to think of it).

Yawn

The best part is that you can download the EP for free on their website and that would be right HERE.

Also, if you happen to be in Chicago, you might be interested to hear that they are playing a show (with Megachurch... great band name!) on the 31st October at Snack Manor (I'm imagining this place has an abundance of cheese toasties).

Short and sweet today.

Sally

sally@weheartmusic.com

It was quite a few years ago I first heard Art Brut. I do believe I was not overly impressed with what I heard. For starters the lead singer (Mr Eddie Argos) couldn't even sing in tune... well actually, it wasn't even singing, was it? Talking, i'd call it. 

Art Brut - Bang Bang Rock & Roll

1 comment

Anyway... Art Brut Vs Satan was released in April this year (2009, in case you had forgotten). It's the third album released by these guys. Produced by Frank Black in the space of twelve days, I believe that Art Brut Vs Satan is at least seven times better than Bang Bang Rock and Roll (the first album released in 2005). 

Feel free to have a go at me, but yes, I think it's taken me these four years to realise that Art Brut are not about catchy tunes and immaculate sounding vocals; they're about the lyrics. The reason why the lack of tunefulness within the lyrics previously irritated me so much is because they are at the forefront of their overall sound. There's no avoiding them; they're clear and coherent. According to various sources, it seems that Eddie's lyrics have even been the subject of lecture at a Berlin university entitled "The Depressive Dandy: the Lyrics of Eddie Argos"; a description that has apparently cause confusion to the man himself. But all the same, says a lot about the lyrics.

Why are they special? Well... let see. They aren't pretentious; they're to-the-point, describing exactly what is being said. No poncey metaphors. It's like a story is being told in each song; most commonly describing various life experiences: a love of public transport, going home with someone you don't quite fancy after an alcohol-fuelled evening, having annoying songs stuck in your head and embarrassingly singing them in public, drinking just that bit too much and waking up the next morning with all manner of mystery bruises. (he sounds a bit like me actually... except my love of public transport is probably not as strong... ha!) 

"I can't remember anything I've done. I fought the floor and the floor won." Love it.

There a some parallels with Eddie's lyrics and those penned by Jarvis Cocker. That is, the fact that they evoke images of situations that most of us would find ourselves in, which is possibly why he has once been described as "the new Jarvis" by NME.

What strikes me about Art Brut Vs Satan, is that the lyrics are more melodic than previously, as though there's been some effort put into creating a more tuneful record rather than just the voice with the english twang speaking over what could be mistaken for a completely unrelated backing band. Before I get my arse kicked, in addition to a marked improvement in the vocals, the melodies, harmonies and overall sound of Art Brut as a band have improved immensely. Simply... This album is fairly excellent indeed.

http://www.artbrut.org.uk

http://www.myspace.com/artbrut

The music news of the world, courtesy of news.weheartmusic.com.

ATLAS SHRUGGED
myspace.com/bradfordcox

I got this note that Atlas Sound is heading out on tour next week -- with Broadcast! Since we haven't written about Broadcast in, like, 2007, it's good to hear about them recently.

Unfortunately, they're not coming near Minneapolis (I've visited Northfield before - it's a bit isolated!), otherwise I would love to do some coverage on them.

The tour information:

10/15 Atlanta, GA @ The Earl
10/16 Chapel Hill, NC @ Local 506
10/17 Washington, DC @ Black Cat
10/18 Philadelphia, PA @ First Unitarian Church
10/20 New York, NY @ (Le) Poisson Rouge
10/21 Brooklyn, NY @ Music Hall of Williamsburg
10/22 Boston, MA @ The Paradise
10/23 Montreal, QC @ Le National
10/24 Toronto, ON @ Lees Palace
10/25 Columbus, OH @ Wexner Center
10/26 Chicago, IL @ Bottom Lounge
10/27 Northfield, MN @ The Cave
10/30 Vancouver, BC @ Richards On Richards
10/31 Seattle, WA @ Neumos
11/01 Portland, OR @ Doug Fir Lounge
11/03 San Francisco, CA @ Great American Music Hall
11/04 Los Angeles, CA @ The Troubadour
11/05 Phoenix, AZ @ Rhythm Room
11/07 Denton, TX @ Hailey's

THE SHOW'S THE THING
kylie.com

Chicagoans, please note that tomorrow's Kyle Minogue's sold-out show at the Congress Theatre has been upgraded to the UIC Pavilion (University of Illinois at Chicago: 525 S Racine Ave., Chicago, IL 60607-3303). According to the announcement, this is being done because of "the sheer scale of the production".

All the tickets that fans have purchased for the Congress Theater will be good at the UIC Pavilion. However, because of the upgraded venue, more seats/tickets are available for purchase (it went on sale October 4^th, so I'm assuming it's probably already sold out). Good luck anyway, check with ticketbastard if you still have hope to attend.

MEAT IS MURDER
transformers.com

Since Christopher can't get enough of Morrissey and the Smiths, I thought I'd offer this: did you know the Smiths is in Transformers 2: Rise of the Fallen? I know this may sound trivial, but I think it's cool.

Shia LaBeouf's character evolved from loving The Strokes & Green Day, to The Smiths, apparently.

TRANSFORMERS: Megan Fox hiding

TRANSFORMERS 2: Meat is Murder poster

PHONING IT IN
nuclearoreilly.com

Nuclear O'Reilly describes themselves as:

A music duo disguised as male escorts for librarians

The world's first iPhone album, Phoning It In, by Nuclear O'Reilly is available on their website for free. I think it's a good promotion for both Apple and its software, by Intua Software (which costs $19.99). Both platform and music software is powerful enough to produce this electronic album.

I did quickly listen to the album, it sounds a bit like a video game. If you think there are no vocals, you're wrong, you can hear some mumbling on "Creamatorium", which I'm assuming they used the iPhone's mic to record it. It's kind of a gimmick, but since it's free, why not check it out? Maybe they can be the next Guitar Zeros, or even worst, iBand.

THE PEN IS MIGHTIER
olympusamerica.com

For years now, I've been using my pocket Sony T7 Camera, which I've been quite happy with - for daytime shooting. If you are interested in a credit card-sized camera, T7 is a great camera for you. Image quality is great, but sensor is slow (as with all compact camera), but you can get around this by taking small 640x480 shots. The bigger the size, the worst it looks. Plus for night shots, see example, you tend to lose details. And you can forget about "fast-action" shots, the sensor is not fast enough to capture frame-by-frame.

The $400, I originally paid for the T7 in 2005, have been totally worth every penny. But in the day of technology growing in leaps and bounds, especially in the digital camera market, my T7 is a dinosaur!

I've placed an order for the Olympus PEN E-P1 Camera. Based on reviews I've read, comparing image quality with other standard SLR camera in its class, I am impressed with the Pen Camera. It particularly did really well with low-light situations, which is what I was looking for. It also shoots 1080 HD movie files, which I think will become more useful in the future. The only complaint people have said is that is a bit expensive (base camera starts at $800), and I've also read that it's slow on the SLR class - but slow they indicate as much as three seconds to startup the camera. Three seconds is not slow! I can live with three seconds!

The tracking number said I'm receiving the camera on Thursday, just in time for Friday's show: Asobi Seksu, Lonely Dear, and Anna Ternheim.

If it all works out, we should have some fantastic pictures from the show. Sadly, I'll still have a perfectly working Sony T7. Should I sell it? Any offers? It's probably most likely going in the bin of other retired electronics, like my all my old iPods, Palm PDA, and MiniDisc players!

PS, Hooray, we're listed as a neighbor on team.vox.com.

The Pains of Being Pure at Heart, The Depreciation Guild at Webster Hall, New York (10/3/09)

Before the show, my astute friend was telling me about an evolved species of “bro” that is quickly infiltrating many concerts. Much like their forefathers, these bros are loud, obnoxious, and harbor a strong fondness for Keystone Light, but these neo-bros diverge from the pack by maintaining a level of enthusiasm for the music that is so fervent – you could even call it “pure.”

With that said, you can imagine the mixed bag that constituted the audience that night at Webster Hall. Opening band, The Depreciation Guild, played to a crowded, eager room even though it was only seven o’clock. Having seen them before, I knew that ear plugs would be handy since their brand of upbeat shoegaze is beautiful – but slightly deafening. Fronted by the Pains’ drummer, Kurt Feldman, the band had most of the audience swaying to their melodic songs, which all melded into one long, pleasantly loud medley. They played in front of a giant set of television screens that flickered technicolored squares the whole time, making their entire set feel like a dreamy music video, circa 1989. Somehow, I think that’s what they were going for.

My ears were still buzzing by the time the Pains took the stage. Fame (or at least, blog fame) has yet to change them, as they seem to have maintained all the buoyant liveliness and low-key charm from their early Cakeshop days. Lead singer Kip Berman and keyboardist Peggy Wang repeatedly thanked the audience in an almost stunned tone, and this awed disbelief of all their success was an endearing theme for most of the night.

Higher Than The Stars 1 comment       The Pains of Being Pure       at Heart at The Depreciation       Guild at Webster Hall, NY      (10/3/09)♥photo by Hannah

Despite the size of the venue, it was a typical Pains show in every way: frenzied dancing, unbridled enthusiasm, and even some lame/awesome jokes (“Why can’t wizards have babies?” “Why?” “They have crystal balls!”) Opening with album favorites “This Love Is Fucking Right” and “Young Adult Friction,” the band had the audience singing along to every word – which is quite an achievement, considering how often indecipherable (in an adorable way!) Kip’s mumble tends to be. They played a few songs from their new EP, with tracks like “Higher Than the Stars” and “103” immediately winning fans over, and they even ended the night with the song that gave the band their infamously wordy name.

Having just finished an extensive tour, the band had all these songs –especially the LP ones—down flat, but at the same time, there was no denying their palpable energy, which easily translated to the crowd. As predicted, the neo-bros were in full force that night, but they were easily tolerated. I mean, it’s hard to hate someone who barks out the entire breakdown of “Young Adult Friction,” even if he does reek of Axe Body Spray.

The Pains of Being Pure at Heart: creating a world where neo-bros and pop kids can peacefully coexist, one infectious chorus at a time.

The Pains of Being Pure at Heart – Higher Than the Stars EP

A few months ago, certain people were sure that the apocalypse was nigh. Or at least, (for lack of a better term) the twee-pocalypse. Why else would a band like the Pains of Being Pure at Heart be on the Carson Daly Show or have a commercial on MTV U? The simple answer: they are a solid band who released a solid album. On their latest EP, Higher Than the Stars, the Pains once again showcase their pop prowess, all the while reminding us that it is possible to live in a world where our playlists can intersect with Carson Daly.

Consisting of four new tracks and one remix, Higher Than the Stars maintains all the rollicking melodies and winking lyrics found on their debut album, but there’s clearly something crisper and more focused going on. A track like “103” begins like any other Pains song, with an infectious beat and Kip Berman’s mumbled vocals, but towards the end, the synths and guitars kick in for a last hurrah, seamlessly adding another layer of interest to the song. It’s nothing major, but it’s definitely something new and intriguing.

The band has yet to move away completely from their jangly roots, but the EP hints at a slightly less lo-fi sensibility. “Falling Over” and “Twins” both lack the fuzz from the first album, but they hardly seem to be hurting because of it. “Twins” especially benefits from the cleaner sound, making the guitars more palpable and Peggy Wang’s background vocals all the more prevalent. Lead single, “Higher Than the Stars,” shows the band heading towards a more polished sound but staying true to their shambling aesthetic. It is the surprisingly ethereal remix of the same song that proves that the band has potential for experimenting with other sounds. Even under a heavy wave of drum machines and synths, the song’s simple chorus (“in the back of her mother’s car”) keeps all of its charm and wayward naiveté intact.

Despite the average pop kid’s reluctance to see their favorite bands succeed in the “real” world, I have no qualms about seeing the Pains acquiring even a Belle-and-Sebastian-level of stardom. They definitely deserve it. So go ahead, put them on awkward indie movie soundtracks or even an Outback Steakhouse commercial. I have a feeling it’s not going to change them.

Yeah yeah, it hasn't slipped past me that this album was released in June, but it can't go unpraised (I'm sure i just made that word up). Kasabian have been round quite a while, West Ryder Pauper Lunatic Asylum is the third album under their belts.

If you've progressed through the years with this four-piece from sunny Leicester, you would have to agree that since their first (and self-titled album) album Kasabian have really grown as songwriters. Indie rock at it's finest.

For example, there were some absolute gems of songs on the first album; catchy as they come, but West Ryder Pauper Lunatic Asylum is just amazing. You have the first single Fire with it's shifts from the mellow, through to it's loud and catchy chorus (be careful of that volume shift when you're listening on some sort of earpod arrangement) and then back again.

You also have songs like Underdog that you may have first seen on some sort of television ad and thought "Hang on, that sounds like Kasabian, but it's much more awesome than I recall them ever being before!"; Where Did All The Love Go?, Vlad The Impaler and Fast Fuse, which each have incredibly catchy guitar riffs and completely splendid underlying basslines; foot-tappingly so.

On the other hand there's tunes like Happiness and Thick As Thieves (I quite like the pronunciation of the words 'Thick' and 'Thieves' - listen for yourself), which although less danceable than those tracks just mentioned, still have that awesome composition of sounds that runs through the entire album.

So many melodies that are just going to stick right in your head and not shift for a good hour. You'd best fire up the vacuum cleaner now, or get in the car and go for a 51 minute and 59 second drive.... the perfect soundtrack for either.

A couple of little tidbits for you:
1. if you head here: http://www.kasabianasylum.com/ you can play a splendid little game.
2. If you gaze down there and do a little clicking you'll notice a Mr Noel Fielding from one of our favourite telly shows The Might Boosh in a promo video for Vlad The Impaler.

They were just in Australia.... and I just happened to miss them... but if you're lucky enough to be more on the ball than me get yourself along to one of these upcoming shows:
Paris / Bataclan, France - 23/10/09
Lyon / Le Radiant, France - 24/10/09
Toulouse / Le Bikini, France - 25/10/09
Köln, Live Music Hall, Germany - 28/10/09
Bochum, Zeche, Germany - 29/10/09
München, Germany - 31/10/09
Hamburg, Germany - 01/11/09
Berlin, Huxley's, Germany - 02/11/09
Newcastle, Metro Radio Arena, UK - 10/11/09
Aberdeen, AECC, UK - 11/11/09
Glasgow, SECC, UK - 12/11/09
London, Wembley Arena, UK - 14/11/09
London, Wembley Arena, UK - 15/11/09
Liverpool, Echo Arena, UK 16/11/09
Nottingham, Trent FM Arena, UK - 18/11/09
Birmingham, NIA, - UK 19/11/09
Manchester, MEN, - UK 20/11/09
Cardiff, International Arena, - UK 22/11/09
Sheffield, Arena, - UK 23/11/09

Links - http://www.kasabian.co.uk - http://www.myspace.com/kasabian

Sally
sally@weheartmusic.com

The Drones

Just a quick one here. After being on the scene for quite a few years now, I've never been a huge fan of the Melbourne band, The Drones; just not my thing. But don't get me wrong, The Drones do what they do (epic, dreamy, well-constructed rock) extremely well. So they are very much worth a mention. The news that I'm wishing to share with you is that although their latest album Havilah was released months ago (March 2009) in Australia The Drones have added US dates to their upcoming Havilah Tour. Support includes Model/Actress (USA) and Bridezilla (Aus), so well worth nipping along.

There's no shortage of dates, so whether you be in the US or, it seems, in any city in Europe (slight exaggeration), you'll get a chance to see them in the near future. Some of the closer dates include:

September 9 - Bell House - Brooklyn, NY
September 15 - Schuba's - Chicago, IL
September 16 - Tractor Tavern - Seattle, WA
September 17 - The Echo - Los Angeles, CA
September 18 - Cafe DuNord - San Francisco, CA

Just a little sample to whet your appetite, have a listen to the tune, Nail It Down, from their live album recorded at The Hi Fi Bar in Brisbane. The live record is set to be released later this year. 

http://thedrones.com.au/
http://www.myspace.com/thedronesthedrones
http://atpfestival.com

Dappled Cities
I've always had a soft spot for Dappled Cities although I must admit I've kinda let me interest slide over recent time. Have they been hiding? or has living in suburbia alienated me that much?

What's to love about Dappled Cities? Well... many things. What I mostly value about their music is the variety in their songs. From mellow, soothing, chill-out type tunes to feel-good pop songs that force you to get up and have a little dance. I must also say that, as a bonus, they do put on a splendid live show.

So what's the news? It seems I haven't really been that out of touch after all, the band have been spending time in the US... I can't be expected to be keeping up with all this news!. The big news is that this Sydney band have recently released their third album, Zounds, which happened to debut at #1on the Australian Independent Music Charts... and will be released in the US on September 15th. (An interesting fact: all 12 songs on the album feature the sounds of a "Gakken" – a $40 build-it-yourself cardboard synthesiser from Japan)

The first single, The Price, has a bit of a disco feel. But what's new about this track, to me, is the inclusion of a string section, intermingled with that infectious indie pop that they are best know for. I'd have a dance. I have yet to hear the entire album, but off the back of their first single, I'm sure to be hunting it down in the near future.

If you happen to be in Perth, you are in luck. You can catch the final show of their Wall of Zounds tour tonight at the Norfolk Basement in Fremantle... run!

http://www.myspace.com/dappledcities
http://www.dappledcities.com

The Grates
Look at these guys, awww.... everything appearance-wise about The Grates oozes cuteness and fun (feel free to look at their website for further evidence), but don't be fooled too easily. There's a definite rawness to The Grates, guitar-rich pop songs, complimented by the voice of Miss Patience Hodgson, which can sway from sugary sweet to rock vixen-esque in a matter of seconds within the same song.

Since bursting on to the scene several years ago (with their debut album Gravity Won’t Get You High) The Grates rose to an immense level of popularity in Australia and not for the first time, they are set to head overseas on the back of their latest, self-co-produced album, Teeth Lost, Hearts Won. (Due to be released in Canada and the US on September 15th)

I can assure you that these guys put on a splendid show and i whole-heartedly advise you to pop along if they happen to be swinging through your neighbourhood. Check there website (or their MySpace page for show dates).

http://www.myspace.com/thegrates 
http://www.thegrates.com
http://www.twitter.com/thegrates

The Scare
Originally from Queensland, The Scare now spend a great deal of time in the UK. The other day i managed to pop along to the album launch of their new release Oozevoodoo. I must say I was concerned that I'd have a terrible time. Just reading about them before the show... "It is abrasive but clear, we like being noisey but channeling it in a fashion that you can still make out the melody", I was a little apprehensive that it'd be some kind of horrid punk monstrosity. But what do you know! It was excellent. I haven't heard the album itself, but what I can say is The Scare are an excellent live band. The tunes are a bit more heavy than i'm used to, but there was no absence of melody, which i loved.The frontman, Mr Kiss Reid, channels enthusiasm and entices the crowd to feel the tunes rather than just stand there watching like a stunned mullet.

So, on that note.... here are some live dates that I feel you should pop along to:
Sept 5 - Hobart - Republic Bar Sun
Sept 6 - Launceston - Hotel New York
Sept 9 - Albury - Sodens
Sept 10 - Wollongong - The Harp
Sept 11 - Sydney - Gaelic Club
Sept 12 - Central Coast - Coaster Festival
Sept 17 - Adelaide - Fowlers Live
Sept 18 - Perth - Rosemount Hotel
Sept 19 - Bunbury - Prince of Wales
Sept 20 - Fremantle - Newport Hotel
Sept 24 - Maroochydore - Sands Tavern
Sept 25 - Gold Coast - Miami Tavern
Sept 27 - Brisbane - The Step Inn

http://www.myspace.com/thescare
http://oozevoodoo.blogspot.com/

And with that... it's time to bake some scones.

Sally
sally@weheartmusic.com