Kat's Ragga

TOO LONG HAS PASSED

2011-01-03T13:15:00.001-08:00

I apologize to this blog. I loved it dearly, but after a while, I couldn't go back to it for some reason. As a 2011 resolution I have committed to keeping another music blog.

THEKEYOFC.TUMBLR.COM

FIND ME. FOLLOW ME.

One wound up punch of intuition

2009-03-10T15:11:00.000-07:00

Umm. So Pfork decided to get a makeover?
I can't tell if I like it or not. It reminds me a lot of Cokemachineglow.

Apparently there's a new Phoenix track! I can't think of another pop-rock album that I loved as much as It's Never Been Like That. The reviewer gives the new track "1901" an 8, I assume out of a 10. Personally I'd give it a 7. But maybe I'm a little bitter because the reviewer dissed The Strokes' own "12:51" with a caddy, "remember them" remark. Listen! On the same page, you can also check out Lil Wayne's new rock track. It's pretty awful.

I found some more pics from Girl Talkkkkk. I look bored or ridiculous in any picture I'm in. Can you find me? Hint: purple cardigan & glasses. There. You should be able to find me. Click for full gallery! Pictures taken from Smileforcamera.

Alsooo this is probably the most original & creative cover I've ever heard. MGMT's "Kids" played entirely on iPhone apps! It was covered by a group called The Mentalists, an all-chick British band.
[Source]

Gregg Gillis also used a sample from "Kids" at the concert, & I pretty much went insane.

PLAY YOUR PART

2009-03-08T09:59:00.000-07:00

GIRL TALK WAS _________ EPIC.
I would add a certain adjective in front of epic but my brother reads my blog so I'll leave it to your imagination.

Confetti & toilet paper & dancing. Lots & lots of dancing.
The openers were Hollywood Holt & Grand Buffet. Both were rap duos, one was black guys, the other white. I'm sure you can imagine which one was better. THEN..... Girl Talk. The crowd was going nuts. I managed to get up to the front railing with my friends & my brother.

But not before some fat bitch decided to give me some of her 'tude. I was like psh whatevz. She was dancing her ass all up in my face & her curly, out of control synthetic hair pony-tail was in my face so I decided to throw my gum in her hair & put my elbows in her back (risking losing my limbs in the vortex of her enormity) so she knew it wasn't okay to shove her junk in my face. I digress, this blog is about good music, not skanks who wear tube tops that are about 1000x too small. Anyways.

So I'm DEAD center, right in front of the man himself. He starts with the "Play Your Part" sample & the crowd went nuts. The only way I can really describe the next 80ish minutes of my life is with one word. Dancing. DancingdancingdancinggggggDANCING d-a-n-c-i-n-g. Lots of people were dancing on stage & lots of people were trying to sneak past the security guard to get up on the stage. Then two people on stage took these weird toilet paper blower things. Basically it shot rolls of toilet paper into the crowd. Ahhhhhhh. Gregg would intermittently come into the space between the railing & stage & I touched him many, many times. He even stepped on my shirt I had slung over the railing as he launched himself into the crowd to surf! & we made eye contact for a full five seconds. Totally.

My favorite samples were "Since U Been Gone" & that interlude about taking your broke ass home in that one Fergie song. Also "Jessie's Girl" & the line about having sex, but rather getting head. I threw my hands in the air like I didn't care.

My bro in the gray shirt, Meg, MEEEEEE, & Leah. Picture taken from whereweanchored's Flickr.

Praying for Pavement to get back together

2009-03-01T09:37:00.000-08:00

I'll be upfront. Franz Ferdinand's new album, Tonight is a little tedious for me. Everything sounds so choppy. & It sounds like Franz Ferdinand which should sound good, but this album is not as good as its predecessors. Nothing on the album seems to flow like an album should. Each song is just like... *typical FF guitar riff* I suppose it's enjoyable enough, but I'm disappointed. Though I should mention, they DID write a song about me ;)

However, surprisingly, I find Coldplay's Prospekt's March to be much more enjoyable. It's continuation of "Life In Technicolor" is extremely satisfying. "Now My Feet Won't Touch The Ground" is a purely acoustic song, reminiscent of the Parachute days. The song is without any complex string arrangements and lacks the warbling vocals that Chris Martin loves to pull. If you listen to the first minute or so of "Rainy Day" you can almost forget that you're listening to Coldplay and that someone put a Beck album on instead. When I heard Coldplay was releasing this EP just months after their album, I was all like lolz, just what we need, another Coldplay album. But srsly guys this is good stuff.

If you haven't bought, stolen, ripped, downloaded, WHATEVER, to Dark Was The Night, yet, WTF are you waiting for?? The album whose proceeds go to AIDS research, features gems from Arcade Fire, Beirut, and my personal fav, The National. The Arcade Fire goes for a kind of bluesy sound that is thoroughly adorable. The National's song however, is by far the best. "So Far Around The Bend" has no words for me to describe. Just listen to it! & The Yo La Tengo song is so beautifulllll. However all 31 songs on the album I'm afraid to say, isn't quite up to snuff. The 10 minute Sufjan Stevens electronica song is a jumbled mess & reminds me of a more disorganized Animal Collective. Which if you're me, is a bad thing. But the album contains so much goodness, I'm willing to overlook Sufjan's temporarily fit of deafness & give the album five out of five Hello Kitties!

Instead of listening to Sufjan's less-than-melodic song, you can enjoy these pictures of him looking mighty handsome with Bell Orchestre, My Brightest Diamond, & Clogs. He lures you in~*~*~ [Source]

Byyyy the way, Yeah Yeah Yeah's new single "Zero" is pretty great. Listen.

Talk with your hips

2009-02-18T17:59:00.000-08:00

Random! Vampire Weekend at an opening party for some store... that just happens to be Armani. I know, right? Proof:
[Source]

Lily Allen has been so freaking adorable lately. Like singing Brit's "Womanizer" in the bathroom with Ellen DeGeneres. & dressing all classy for her performance of "The Fear" on the Tonight Show. [Source 1, 2]

Yeah Yeah Yeahs have released their newest single "Zero." It's... familiarly YYYs but slightly different. There seems to be more synth-ish things over the same heavy & driving guitar riffing that make the song have a lighter/poppier feel than their other stuff. I like. [Source]

So I reallyyyy love Frightened Rabbit. They have the same homey uniqueness as Fleet Foxes, but I find their harmonies to be more complex & more interesting. They also aren't overhyped. Ahem. I guess I shouldn't talk with Vamp Wknd being the first in my post, but I digress. Listen to them. !!!!!!!!!!

17 DAYS UNTIL GIRL TALK.

Bored with electricity

2009-02-15T09:42:00.000-08:00

Just watch.

So I don't know if you've heard of The Lonely Island, but it's the combined musical talents of SNL's Andy Samberg, Akiva Schaffer, and Jorma Taccone (famous for dancing around shirtless to various SNL musical guests). Their album dropped last Tuesday, and who is featured in one of their songs, but Julian Casablancas?For your listening pleasure. [Source]

M.I.A. had a bb boy! In fact, she went into labor when she came home from the Grammy's (did you see her performance with Kanye, T.I., Jay-Z, & Lil Wayne? More importantly did you see her awesome maternity outfit??) Read the new mama's update! [Source 1, 2]

In a perfect situation, I let love down the drain

2009-01-28T16:25:00.001-08:00

The Black Lips got chased out of India! They assumed their usual frolicsome behavior that would have been cheered on by (drunken) spectators elsewhere, but in India, the law laid the smackdown. Read for a riveting account of the Black Lips' legal troubles. What "Bad Kids"..... [Source]

Lil Wayne is going to try is hand in the realm of good old rock'n'roll. Maybe I'll like it better than "A Milli." Maybe I'm just an indie rock nerd who is too wrapped up in the neat refrains and riffs of Vampire Weekend to appreciate anything else. Or maybe he just sucks. Either way I remain dubious. Even the Pfork peeps who worshipped Tha Carter III seem unconvinced at Lil Wayne's newest venture. [Source]

LEGIT STROKES NEWS. After reports of various Strokes members pursuing various side-projects (Nickel Eye, Little Joy, etc), THEY HAVE FINALLY GOT THEIR SHIT TOGETHER. They will reconvene in the studio in February, causing the hearts of many fans to begin beating again. I, among them. [Source]

Click the source for some hawt~*~ Lily Allen photos at her "comeback" gig.
A small Lily Allen aside- I went to a dance last night & of course they played crappy music. I've always wondered what makes the DJ keep playing that song when nobody is on the dance floor? Is he blinded by the dim lighting, so conducive to acts of grinding and general skankiness? Is he deafened by his own horrible taste in music? Yeah I guess. But then all of a sudden I heard the beginnings of Lily Allen's "The Fear!" Before I could cajole my friends to twirl with me a la Lily Allen, the DJ changed the song. Yeah. Anyways, here's a preview:

[Source]

Interview with Coldplay's resident hottie, Guy Berryman! [Source]

Well I think that's a sufficient update. I'm off to a Super Bowl party. Obviously only with the purpose of absconding with all the free snacks and thus keeping my status quo of football knowledge where it belongs. At zero.

So who's the girl wearing my dress

2009-01-23T15:56:00.000-08:00

The Killers have released their video for "Spaceman." I like the song but the video not so much. It's really really really weird. You have been warned. [Source]

Speaking of music videos, Franz Ferdinand released their video for "Ulysses!" It's so good! I love everything about the song & the video is pretty swell. Srsly though, FF is just so cool.

In other FF news, hottie drummer, Paul Thompson impressed Cheryl Cole with his neck tattoos. She is apparently a singer in a British chick band (Girl's Aloud?). I'm sure his bamf drumming skillz add to the "sexy" of the neck tattoo. [Source]

The Yeah Yeah Yeahs have enlisted the help of some fuzzy ducklings in a bowl of popcorn & a rabid raccoon to name their new album. The animals have deemed it Blitz. [Source] for the picture.

Can you tell I'm losing sleep?

2009-01-19T13:20:00.000-08:00

Ben Gibbard & Zooey Deschanel's engagement has some serious cuteness competition:

Gordon Moakes & his baby! Read the accompanying interview where the Bloc Party bassist talks about his family life.

Also did you know you can follow Bloc Party on Twitter? Chya.

I've got the spirit, lose the feeling

2009-01-14T17:58:00.000-08:00

Seriously, my badz for not updating. Apologies x1000.

To make up for my lack of updates, I have two blogs they I hold in very high regard. My friend Elizabeth writes Say Parcheezie & it's oft filled with the intellectual language that is lacking here. She recently did a Top 7 Albums of 2008 & it's worth checking out! She pointed out this very interesting & extremely unconventional review of a Hot Chip show. Took me a while to figure out, but it was nice to look at.

So everyone knows who Spencer Tweedy is, right? You know, Jeff Tweedy of Uncle Tupelo/Loose Fur/Wilco's son? Not gonna lie, I didn't at first, but he's 13 & has this really fabulous blog. It's pretty intellectually stimulating I must say; even the writers of Pitchfork were impressed. Read! [Source]

I'm really getting into Ra Ra Riot's The Rhumb Line. The first track, "Ghost Under Rocks," grabs your attention, mostly because the first 10 seconds sounds like a Wolf Parade's "Shine A Light." Upon further listen, you discover that it is a delightful mix of string usage, pleasant vocals, & relatable lyrics.

Look, some happy pictures of Los Campesinos!

I'm just sitting on the shelf

2008-12-29T21:20:00.000-08:00

Ben Gibbard and Zooey Deschanel are engaged!
How freaking adorable. Read more.

More at a later update.

I could use somebody like you

2008-12-21T20:41:00.000-08:00

I have super exciting news that I have to tell you, but you have to get through this mega long post to know it. Unless you're just a cheater who doesn't like to play fun games & scrolls down to the bottom.

If you're just as in love with Patrick Wolf as I am, then you'll find this mini-documentary extremely endearing. It has footage of a live show & of him playing piano & just being all cute. He says he quit piano lessons after two weeks because he hated practicing scales. I hear you Pat. I hear you. Watch! [Source]
Oh & at the source you'll find lots more P. Wolf goodies like pictures & such.

Apparently the military has been using the music of bands like Nine Inch Nails for torture and interrogation tactics. I just wonder how can people take something that's supposed to be beautiful and someone's form of creative expression, and turn it into something that can be so hurtful and damaging. I guess there's two sides to it though. Trent Reznor called the practice "demeaning and enraging" but this dude Steve Benton from Drowning Pool (never heard of 'em) said "I take it as an honor to think that perhaps our song could be used to quell another 9/11 attack." Read more. [Source]

Okay so here's a prime example of what music should be used for. A Crayola commersh! Dan Deacon has repeatedly refused other requests to use his music, but when asked by Crayola, he said it's, "something that promotes a company that creates a product that encourages people (children) to make art and to use their minds to create." Well what do you know, I like that. The song they sampled was "Pink Batman." So good! [Source]

So WHAT THE CRAP PFORK. WHAT THE CRAP. YOU NAMED FLEET FOXES THE NUMBER ONE ALBUM OF THE YEAR? I have a problem with that. But no one cares. But you're gonna hear what I think anyways. I'll admit it, Vampire Weekend has just gotten as much hype as Fleet Foxes & yes, they too are overrated. But apparently it's so much cooler to rate Fleet Foxes higher because they're a band that not everyone will like. That's just my opinion. Whatevz. Oh yeah & they named Lil Wayne's "A Milli" the 14th track of the year. Srsly guys??? Srsly?? Click to see 50 Best Albums or 100 Best Tracks.

Lily Allen covered Britney Spears' "Womanizer." It's alright I guess. I think it's a song where Lily Allen's laid back & melodic voice doesn't work. I mean I like it, but it kind of needs that umfff. You know what I'm saying? Like that pushy quality. Listen to the song. [Source]

Now for the biggest news ever... I saved the best for last.... GUESS WHO'S GOING TO SEE GIRL TALK &&&&&&&&& CUT COPY IN MARCH???? YES, ME. THIS LITTLE OLD BLOGGER. I'M SO FREAKING EXCITED. When I found out Girl Talk was coming here, I about had a panic attack of joy.

La cocaina no es buena

2008-12-17T15:29:00.001-08:00

Omg I have so many things to post about but I have midterms & gahhh.
For my own future reference, things to discuss:
-Nine Inch Nails used as torture music... freaking messed up.
-Dan Deacon's "Pink Batman" used for a Crayola commersh! Supa cute & I forgot about Dan Deacon & how good he was.
-LOVING Crystal Castles.
-Not loving Fleet Foxes & Lil Wayne being in like the top ten of every end of the year list?? Wtf srsly. I tried listening to "A Mili" by Lil Wayne but I couldn't. Oh, & idk if I have expressed how much I think Fleet Foxes are overrated. Yeah I said it. I mean so are Vampire Weekend, but still.
-Lily Allen's cover of Britney Spears' "Womanizer."

It's Christmas! Let's be glad!

2008-12-07T09:14:00.000-08:00

Well not yet. But I am listening to my Sufjan Stevens songs for Christmas box set! How exciting :D because do you know what this means? I WILL BE DONE WITH COLLEGE ESSAYS SOON. & I will actually get to actually update.

So Coldplay has been accused yet again (remember the Creaky Boards incident?) of ripping off someone else's song for "Viva La Vida." (As if Coldplay doesn't get enough hits for ripping off their own material), Guitarist Joe Satriani has decided to sue Coldplay. Even I must admit the resemblance is uncanny. Listen for yourself. [Source]

Lily Allen's video for "The Fear" is out. The song itself is... actually I'm not sure how to feel about it. It has wobbly synth undertones which is nice & shimmery. The video is fun to watch:

[Source]

Pitchfork reviewed The Killers' newest album, Day & Age, & gave it what they always seem to give The Killers. A five point something (5.9 this time); Hot Fuss 5.2, Sam's Town 5.9, & Sawdust 5.5 . Read ze review.

Are we human or are we dancer?

2008-11-25T19:42:00.000-08:00

If you want some hardcore lolz, then I suggest you read Cokemachineglow's review of Beyonce's new album, I Am... Sasha Fierce. I'll just tell you, the reviewer opens it up with "I am... confused."

Cut your hair like Joan of Arc

2008-11-23T07:57:00.000-08:00

Read this funny interview with Chris Martin. He says Coldplay is cooler than The Strokes. I am going to have to disagree with that, Christ Martian. [Source]

I must say The Killers' new song, "Human" is quite catchy. They always manage to put out really strong singles, ("Mr. Brightside" & "When You Were Young") but mediocre albums, yes/yes? Download the tune hurr. Also thankfully it appears that Brandon Flowers had the decency to get rid of that hokey Sam's Town moustache. [Source]

More pictures of Mr. Flowers looking extremely dapper here.

Sold my cold knot

2008-11-22T09:33:00.000-08:00

I love this time of year because Christmas, yes yes, but ALSO, end of the year thingamajigs like the annual Gummy Awards!

Vote at Stereogum for your fav album, indie crushes, best movie, etc... & most importantly, best music blog other than Sgum. Vote for me! (I'm only half serious guys). Votevotevotevotevote!

If your memory is a little rusty, you may find Wiki's 2008 album releasesto be helpful in making informed choices.

/shamless self-promotion

Seventeen & half-alive...

2008-11-18T20:02:00.000-08:00

So the A.P. Lit teacher at my school likes Girl Talk & pretty much every band I blog about & it's pretty B.A. Okay so a few years ago I feel in love the Stars' Set Yourself On Fire & I freaking loved that album to death. Then I got a new computer & I wasn't able to keep my music & I had to re-build my library from my brother who DELETED Stars for some unknown asinine reason. SO ONLY UNTIL NOW (just because I made a big deal about it my bro never d/l-ed it for me & I've never bought a CD in my entire life except for The Strokes' First Impressions) HAVE I BEEN REUNITED WITH MY BELOVED STARS. Thanks to this A.P. Lit teacher who also gave me some weird shiz I've never heard about. I don't know why I told you this. Moving on.

Chromeo has remixed Vampire Weekend's "The Kids Don't Stand A Chance." It's pretty mediocre. Download it here. [Source]

New Franz Ferdinand song! Sgum said it has like a Spoon undertone/beat & I definitely feel that. It seems more synth-ed together than their previous stuff & it seems like they've tried to progress. It still remains solidly Franz Ferdinand though. Listen, it's called "Ulysses." While it may not be superfantastiche (ha) it is still satisfying. [Source]

Fleeeeeeet Foxes interview with Pfork! Read.

Make me a believer, the seas will part somehow

2008-11-11T15:45:00.000-08:00

ASKLFGHSALKFHSLAKFHALSKFHSA
OMGOMGOMGOMG X100000000000.

GUESS WHO IS ACTUALLY COMING TO FLORIDAAAAAA?????

CUT COPY!!!!!!!!!! I KNOW, RIGHT! MY LIFE!!!!!!!!!!

Okay, my heart started beating again. Tickets will go on sale sometime this week. Click here to see the their other North American tour dates. [Source]

So have you ever wondered what happened to the baby on the cover of Nirvana's Nevermind? Yeah, me either but he recreated the cover. Click to have a looksy. His name is Spencer Elder & I am just sayin he is pretty cute. Not that I looked him up on Myspace or anything......... [Source]

Could be blue, I don't mind

2008-11-08T15:13:00.000-08:00

GREGGGG GILLISSS!!!!

Endorses PCs. But that is okay. The melody you hear is an original Girl Talk sample, the same one in "Hold Up" off of Night Ripper (the sample starts at around 1:40 or something).

Adjust your eyes to the state of things

2008-11-05T13:59:00.000-08:00

Omg new Sigur Ros vid for "Við spilum endalaust!" It's all vintage-y & cool. Watch hurrr. [Source]

However I must say if you really wanna see an awesome super cool music video, check out Coldplay's "Lovers In Japan." This is one of the better music videos I have seen in a while.

They added this weird "oooahhh" part in between "One day we're gonna get out" & "Tonight maybe we're gonna run" right around 1:46 that I am not particularly fond of.

Franz to the Ferdinand have named the first single off their new album. It's called "Ulysses" & will be out the second of December. (Why haven't we heard a leak yet!!??) [Source]

So a new uber-band has been formed. Beirut+LCD Soundsystem+The Arcade Fire. I know right. They've joined together under the name Team B. Sgum has a d/l available. The song's pretty mellow but has like funk undertones. I really like it. Download! [Source]

Listen to~
The Sea and Cake & Deerhunter & The Main Drag!
The Main Drag has this cover of LCD Sound's "All My Friends" & it's pretty good. It's better than the Franz Ferdinand one at least ("All Ma Pals") & Cokemachineglow goes so far as to even say it's better than the original. I don't agree with it, but it gives the Main Drag more cred. Anyways. Listen!

Songs with Guests (Duets, Collaborations)

2008-10-26T11:41:00.001-07:00

Speaks for itself.

1. I Just Threw Out The Love Of My Dreams- Weezer ft. Petra Haden
2. Modern Girls & Old Fashioned Men- The Strokes ft. Regina Spektor
3. Who- Five O'Clock Heroes ft. Agyness Deyn (soon to be Hammond)
4. Nothing Better- The Postal Service ft. Jenny Lewis (Not completely sure)
5. Handle With Care- Jenny Lewis & the Watson Twins ft. Ben Gibbard, Conor Oberst, & M. Ward
6. Father & Son- Johnny Cash ft. Fiona Apple
7. Portland, Oregon- Loretta Lynn ft. Jack White
9. Young Folks- Peter Bjorn & John ft. Victoria Bergsman
10. Hell No- Sondre Lerche ft. Regina Spektor

Enjoyyy!

Rebel rebel, your face is a mess

2008-10-24T20:36:00.000-07:00

Okay is it just me or does Albert Hammond Jr. kind of channel David Bowie? I may be completely off with that one, but for some reason "Heroes" really sounds like something A.H. Jr. would do. Idk though. Someone either confirm this or slap me.

Here's a random list of songs I've been listening to lately, but I'm just going to list the lyricssss:
1. Though nothing will keep us together/We could steal time/Just for one day
2. Success is so forbidding/But it makes me think I'm winning
3. We fell back to earth like gravity's bitches/Physics makes us all its bitches
4. Where have you been/If you go I will surely die/We're chained
5. Now you're all gone got your make-up on and you're not coming back/Can't you come back?

Take a guess? Or you could use Google. Whatevz.

Sorry for this half-butted attempt at an update.

Into this long month of Sundays

2008-10-17T15:20:00.000-07:00

So it's good to know Julian Casablancas is opening up Korean BBQ restaurants with his time off. I mean I'm all for Korean BBQ (represent!) but srsly. Get it together. Or at least get a haircut. [Source]

As for myself, I have not been opening up Korean BBQs but of course getting sick & accumulating into one big stressball. Whee.

Anyways, this made me lol irl a lot. It's so funny. It's a vid of Katy Perry falling. & then she does it again.... & again. Lolz x10. [Source]

Franz Ferdinand is releasing their new album on January 27th! YAY. By then, I'll actually have a life, seeing as how college apps will be out of my life. But yeah, the album's called Tonight: Franz Ferdinand. I have high hopesss. Check the source for some tour dates! [Source]

Also soon-to-be-released, is Pitchfork's FIRST EVER BOOK. Prettyyyyyy excited. It's going to be a guide of the 500 greatest songs, from "punk to the present." Can't wait. Pre-order the book (comes out Nov 11) hurrrr. [Source]

Check out this new vid for Island's song, "Creeper." I never heard the song, but I'm a big fan of Islands/The Unicorns & I'm a huge creeper myself (I have small stalker-like tendencies but I like to file them under my "cute little quirks") WHATEVER, LONG STORY SHORT: go watch the video. [Source]

So just to let you know, I've been listening to a lot of Patrick Wolf (future husband) & Clap Your Hands Say Yeah. Check them both out if you don't already listen to them!

It's the night, I can be who you like

2008-10-08T14:45:00.000-07:00

Eeeeee! GIRL TALK INTERVIEW WITH PITCHFORK. Reeeaaaddd!

Being an avid reader of the LJ community, ohnotheydidnt, I came across a girl who posted pictures of her playing onstage with Weezer! I guess I still have a bit of affection in my heart for them. I recently burned a copy of the Blue & Pinkerton albums for a friend who had only heard crap Weezer, aka Bev Hills/Red Album. I feel like I made the world a slightly better place after I gave him the CDs. Anyways, if you want to see Rivers in all his moustachio glory, click.

So The Decemberists have decided to call their new album, Hazards of Love. Indeed, indeed. The first single drops October 14. Pitchfork for detailz.

Deerhoof has a new video out for "Chandelier Searchlight." I like it, the song I mean. I never really got into Deerhoof too much because their music I guess wanders too much for me? I think it varies too much for my main alternative tastes. But they're still enjoyable. Stereogum has the vid & downloadable MP3.

Okay so seriously, LISTEN TO FRIGHTENED RABBIT. They are so good. Also, I know I've mentioned them before, but if you didn't listen to me then, listen to me now & LISTEN TO SEABEAR. They're from Iceland, so you know they have to be good. Maybe there's something in the ICE that makes Icelandic music so good? Haha...

I'll stow away my grays

2008-10-02T18:22:00.000-07:00

While I would like to say that I am doing something incredibly fascinating in my periodic absences from this blog, the truth is, I am not. I am having fits of anxiety (which apparently is the root of my bruxism), eating lots of cookies, & talking about how much I have to do instead of actually doing it. But tomorrow I'm skipping school on my mother's leave so I have a pause to say holla.

Here is an immensely satisfying video of Lykke Li & the boys from Bon Iver making pretty music together:

[Source]

Here is a less satisfying video of Snow Patrol & their new single, "Take Back The City." You can watch it anyways though, like I did. Maybe it's just me, but they seem to have gotten more... superficial in they're writing, lyrically & musically. Idk though, I'm no Snow Patrol fanatic/expert. [Source]

I came across an interview with MGMT on doing ecstasy & the creative writing process; muy interestante. [Source]

So someone recommended I give Frightened Rabbit a listen. I've never heard of them (I don't really recall them getting any exposure from Pfork/Sgum) but when I listened to them, I really liked what I heard. Pitchfork gave their album that came out April of this year, an 8.1, if that is the sort of thing to make you more inclined to give them a listen. You should. Regardless.

Omgomgomg, NEW DECEMBERISTS SONG! However, before you get too excited, I have to say that I am not overly impressed. It's still nice, just not up to their "O Valencia" standards, but that's just me. What do you think? [Source]

What gives this mess some grace

2008-09-27T08:49:00.000-07:00

Breaking news!

Vampire Weekend's song, "Ottoman" for the movie Nick & Norah's Infinite Playlist, is out! Head over to Stereogum to listen. Being a hXc~*~ V.W. fan, I'd say this song is nothing spesh. It actually sounds like the string line of "M79" mixed with "Cape Cod Kwassa Kwassa" lyrics that reference Peter Gabriel. Nevertheless, it's a new Vampire Weekend song!

Breaking news numero dos. Muxtape is back! Unfortunately, it will not be the Muxtape that we knew & loved. Head over to read what Muxtape's founder had to say. However, if you find yourself lost in the enormousness of the text, Tinymixtapes has a good summary of it if you prefer a CliffsNotes version.

Songs To Mellow You Out

2008-09-21T08:05:00.000-07:00

THAT'S RIGHT. THE SUBJECT TITLE IS A MUXTAPE TAPE TITLE.

Rejoice everywhere! For I have found an alternative (not as good of course) for Muxtape! It's called Mixwit. This week's tape was inspired by my own freaking out about an orchestra audition, college, the SAT, getting sick, & my recent love for Sigur Ros as study music. Hurrrrrr's the tracklisting, enjoyyyyyyyy~

1. Neon Bible- The Arcade Fire

2. House of Cards- Radiohead

3. Marching Bands of Manhattan- Death Cab For Cutie

4. Lua- Bright Eyes

5. Brandy Alexander- Feist

6. Olsen Olsen- Sigur Ros

7. 1979- The Smashing Pumpkins

8. 'Til Kingdom Come- Coldplay

9. Plans- Bloc Party

10. Fake Empire- The National

Here we are at the transmission party

2008-09-20T07:02:00.000-07:00

Omg hiiii! So I got the stomach flu on Friday morning (like 2 A.M. morning) & basically I threw up all day yesterday. But now I'm better & after sharing that bit of lovely news with you, here's some actual newsworthy news of musical nature!

The Smashing Pumpkins are set to release their FIRST EVER live concert DVD to mark their 20th anniversary! It'll be out on November 11th and it's going to be a whopping 105 minutes long. Read more at the source.

Kings of Leon have insulted Panic At The Disco & Fall Out Boy. Lol, need I say more? KOL talks about their recent success with their new single "Sex On Fire" & about settling down. Detailz hurrr.

New Kanye West song, "Love Lockdown" is out & you can listen to it here at the source. Personally, I can't say I'm a big fan, especially because Graduation was such a big hit for me.

I've never heard of Magnetic Morning, but apparently it is the side project of Sam Fogarino (Interpol) & Adam Franklin (Swervedriver- who I've never heard of either) but the mention of Interpol was enough to grab my attention so it should be enough to grab yours & I apologize for this poorly constructed run-on sentence. I guess Magnetic Morning have released an EP, but before I butcher anymore of the English language, head on over to Stereogum for the full scoop.

Okay so Fab Moretti (The Strokes' FAB [haha] drummer) has a side project with Devendra Banhart called Little Joy. Listen at their Myspace here & visit the source for info about their new album.

Apparently Jack White loved working with Alicia Keys so much, he may be working on her next album. But, NME, being the ambiguous writers that they are, have not really made it clear if this is going to be forrealz. Try your hand at interpreting the text here. Speaking of Jack White & Alicia Keys, it seems as though the song they wrote for Quantum of Solace, was unknowlingly used for a Coke ad. Jack White, of course, had a fit. Read details.

That was a rather large upchuck (a bad pun in lieu of my stomach virus, haha) of information but I feel rather awful about the lack of updates. Here, I will leave you on an apologetic note, kind of a peace offering. So I was watching TV when I was sick, something I never do, but there was this Kashi commerical & apparently if you go on their website Kashi.com you can enter in your address & shiz & get a free cookie! So go go go & get a free cookie!

Postcards from tiny islands

2008-09-15T19:04:00.000-07:00

Hello.

I have time to drop in & say that yes, I am alive. But that's really all I can say because my life is hanging on a thread all because of COLLEGE.

If the few of you who read my blog are in need of some musical info~*~*, I highly recommend the websites I source often:

Stereogum

Pitchforkmedia

Cokemachineglow

Tinymixtapes

Ohnotheydidnt

I don't even have time to link them, just search for 'em in Google.

I MISS BLOGGING ABOUT THE STROKES. I MISS MY LIFE.

-over&out-

Expecting softness can lead to foolishness

2008-09-09T15:17:00.000-07:00

I have for you, today, a PLETHORA of new things. Get ready... set.... be excited!

New Andrew Bird song! It's called "The Master Swarm" & he performed it live on August 24th. Watch at Yewtoob. [Source]

Okay so if you don't mind horrible quality, listen to a new Snow Patrol song, "Take Back The City" here. & for that matter, if you don't mind mediocre music. Sorry Snow Patrol, but this one song definitely seems like a downgrade. Source]

Continuing with today's theme of "new" there's a new music video, ft.ing our fav electronica duo. Besides Justice... & MGMT. Or Daft Punk. Give up? HOT CHIP! Watch the vid at Sgum. [Source]

Okay, this part goes out to faithful reader, Elizabeth! Heads up, because there's a new Spoon song! It's called "Writing To You In Reverse" (click to download/listen). Lemme just say, that Britt Daniel can write to me any which way he wants. [Source]

P.S.

I really miss Muxtape.com :(

So much for dreams we see...

2008-09-05T15:52:00.000-07:00

Another week is doneee. That's a week less until graduation!

So the elections are coming up. Do you support Obama?? Even if you don't that's okay, just as long as you support The National! Their song "Fake Empire" is the music to the Obama campaign video which is pretty nifty. Dude, McCain needs to step his game up & get like Girl Talk to do his campagin vid. Clickkk to watch Obama's! [Source]

So it seems like my favorite pretty boy, Patrick Wolf is getting ready for not one, but two albumzzz. That's pretty exciting. He says to think of "smashing pumpkins, kate bush" interestante combo there, Patrick. Read his full blog. [Source]

I feel like I blog too much about Coldplay, so I'm just going to post the link from Stereogum about something new that they're doing. Click if you want, don't click if you don't want.

Okay, now here's the news you should actually really super duper care about. Sufjan Stevens! Yes, I should just be able to type his name & you should jump up for joy! But I'll tell you anyways. Sufjan Stevens wrote the score for some movie Natalie Portman directed. Basically it's all like "quiet, sad, romantic flourishes." Perf, just perfect. [Source]

Alsooooo, Conor Oberst & The Mystic Valley Band are touring! I wish he had left it as Bright Eyes because that was a lot to type out. Anyways, check the dates out here at Pfork, & yes, he IS coming to Florida!

Oh & P.S., if you wanna buy Bob Dylan's harmonica, betterrrr hurry it up because there's only seven of 'em. Detailz at source.

... but never care to know.

We're half awake in a fake empire

2008-08-30T12:02:00.000-07:00

Helloooo! School sucks, what else is new? Ben Gibbard paying Jenny Lewis a visit, that's what! Here's a super duper cute vid of them & it previews one song off Jenny's new album due September 23rd. [Source]

Proof that The Strokes will never get back together & my heart shall break forevermore. Albert Hammond Jr. is going to start a clothing line. Yes, you heard me correctly, a clothing line. Not a new album, but a freakin' men's clothing line. I'm actually considering putting The Strokes on the back burner, along with where I put Weezer years ago. I haven't given up on them yet, but if they continue their side projects & other shenanigans, I just may have to. [Source]

Here are two cover songs that aren't particularly outstanding, but very nice in their own way, (besides, I love Vampire Weekend & MGMT!).

Everywhere (Fleetwood Mac)- Vampire Weekend

Kids (MGMT)- The Kooks

Hurry up & snatch 'em up before the crazy mofos at RIAA or something will kill ya. [Source 1] [Source 2]

Oh, & a quick visit to Patrick Wolf's Mspace as I was updating my Recently Played, revealed that he did a song, "Careless Talk" for the movie The Edge of Love. You can read about the movie here, listen to the song here, & read his blog about how the song has found its way "deep into his heart."

Don't be scared of the corners

2008-08-25T20:13:00.000-07:00

So after all this tropical storm shiz is gone, school has started forrealz. & lemme just say, it's a big BETCH. Srsly. I can't even update all I want to right now but to say I do have links for you guys, but I only have time to drop in & say hi. So hi.

The main thing I wanna talk about is this band called Fredrik. Love 'em. I think you will too. Very laid-back, but their songs do have a driving force. Pretty melodies with light instrumentation. Thanks to Stereogum (click to d/l songs) for pointing them out. Check their Myspace hurrr.

Some quick shiz:

-The secret behind why Coldplay are still together? Find out.

-Speaking of which, Albert Hammond Jr. is the supporting act for their tour. Which is disappointing. Why? It means he's not in the studio with the rest of The Strokes, working on an album.

-If you have a thing for Sufjan Stevens (& who doesn't) Pfork has a few pictures up for your viewing pleasure. Exhibit A~

Adieu for now, I hope to see this blog very sooooooon!

Phony Beatle mania is bitin' the dust

2008-08-22T17:53:00.000-07:00

Remember my post on The Jonas Brothers vs. The Beatles? & remember my position, staunchly stating that The Beatles pwned the Jonas Brothers like ever? Here's the post to refresh your memory, but it seems like some dude has made the exact opposite claim. Under what authority? He says he's seen lots of Beatles concerts as well as Jonas Brothers' concerts. Which concerns me more than the fact that he thinks Jo Bros > Beatles. Pfft. Absolute hogwash. [Source]

Jack White talks about his ~inspiring~ collaboration with Alicia Keys for the James Bond Theme. Who else is excited for Quantum of Solace??? NME for the detailz on White's experience with Keys' "electric energy" in her breath. [Source]

I've decided I'm going to try my hand at writing another review... it'll be Bloc Party's Intimacy. I've given a few songs a couple of listens & it hasn't completely put me off like A Weekend In The City which is a good sign.

Click if you wanna learn about purchasing a bunch 'o' Decemberists singles. There's a lot to be looking forward to that's coming out soon.

OMGOMG my current fav band Sigur Ros released their music video for Inní mér syngur vitleysingur. They used live footage which is always nice to look at if the band is Sigur Ros but the song is album quality. EEeeeeeee!!!!

‘Inní mér syngur vitleysingur’ - Official Video

[Source]

You love, you despise

2008-08-21T16:59:00.000-07:00

Bloc Party's new album is out today and they have a few more songs for you to listen to on their Mspaceee. The songs are... very crunchy- more electronic-ish stuff in there. Lots of fast drumming & scratchy effects. "Signs" is a very pretty song, sort of like the slower ones off their debut, Silent Alarm. I like the chimes. Anyways, here's a nice little interview with Gordon Moakes (bassist) & Pfork.

Weezer's Brian Bell has started a new band! It's called The Relationship. Check 'em out here, they have one song up. Don't worry, it sounds nothing like Weezer so click if you want an earful. [Source]

SAD NEWS. LeRoi Moore, saxophonist of Dave Matthews Band (the band my brother has seen, oh say 50 times) has died. There's a memorial fund being set up in his name if you want to donate. [Source]

Random tidbits:

-Yeah Yeah Yeahs & The Arcade Fire are set to do the music for the movie Where The Wild Things Are. [Source]

-Coldplay may follow in Bloc Party's footsteps & rush release another album... because Viva La Vida was such a huge success. [Source]

-A new Snow Patrol album, A Hundred Million Suns will be out October 27. [Source]

Look forward to all these things! Except maybe the Coldplay one... haha kiddingggg.

Pfork TV has this awesome live vid of Cut Copy's performance at Studio B that you should definitely definitely watch:

[Source]

I try to imagine a careless life

2008-08-19T08:21:00.000-07:00

Wheeee! Bloc Party are doing a shock release (announcing an album like 3 days notice prior to its release) of their third album! Intimacy, it's called & it'll be out on Thursday. The press release said it has "wildly experimental" stuff but also solid BP songs, like from the good old days of Silent Alarm. Supa excited! If you can't wait, have a taste on their Myspace; new song is called "Trojan Horse." I like it a lot better than "Mercury" which is the first song they released & it kind of... eh, yeah. [Source]

Would you be interested in watching a show where Bush is a dictator & drugs the water supply & turns America into a dystopia? Well so would Trent Reznor. It was his idea after all. HBO met with Reznor to dicuss this... "idea." [Source]

Now for the bad news... Muxtape is temporarily shut down. Thanks RIAA (Recording Industry Association of America), you suck. [Source]

Here are some fun tidbits to keep you occupied on your Hurricane Day Off! (At least FL peepz):

-Learn different styles of fronting a band

-Audiosurf!

-TuneGlue (I can be on this site forevs)

Nobody with no one to call

2008-08-17T15:44:00.000-07:00

I apologize for the lack of muxtapes.... I'm kind of dry on ideas. I promise one for next week though. So school starts tomorrow. LAME. You know what else is lame? THE JONAS BROTHERS. Okay what the crap. I personally don't hate them or anything but I have never been able to sit through the entirety of any one song of theirs. People need to stop with The Beatles comparisons. That is sacrilege. McCartney/Lennon put genius into music. Jonas/Jonas/Jonas (if they do write their own songs) put pop into well tailored suits. The hype is truly ridiculous. There were FOUR Beatles. Three Jo Bros. The Beatles were riddled with alcohol and drug problems. John Lennon posed naked on a magazine with his lover that wasn't his wife. The Jonas Brothers wear purity rings. Not that I'm making fun of that. Just the fact that THEY HAVE NOTHING IN COMMON. I mean, John Lennon was killed!!!! Although if that's any inclination to the Jonas' future.... haha I kid, I kid. Okay to be less harsh, I do see one commone factor: they are all male (even that is questionable). & they aren't even that cute. Srsly, the youngest one is the only mildly attractive one. I forget if it's Joe or Kevin who has caterpillars for eyebrows. But looks don't matter. Or don't they??????? Because I truly believe that's half the reason for their catapult to fame. You'd think The Jonas Brothers were Jesus and two disciples at the way these fangirls are acting:

Ridiculous, just plain ridiculous. You tell me in 20 years when they're older and they can fit into their tight pants anymore, if girls will be eating their hair for the Jonas Brothers. Will their music be remembered like "Let It Be" & "Across The Universe"????? Dubious, at best.

/rant

Shake appeal feel so high & low

2008-08-16T12:40:00.000-07:00

Ughhh... school starts on Monday. Last year of high school, but nonetheless, school.

Well to cheer myself and whoever else might be subjected to the same horror on Monday, there's a download available of a new Los Camp

esinos song! It's like a weird mesh of normal Los Campesinos with a twiddling violin in the background and then BAM! Hardcore scissor snipping guitar riffs going all over your ear. Try it out for yourself. [Source]

Kings of Leon whines about not being able to play new material because it'll be leaked on the Internet. Wah-wah. Whatevs KOL, you still have a large fan base & it'll even grow because you'll have more exposure. [Source]

Nine Inch Nails is going on tour! & opposite of KOL, NIN's Trent Reznor actually encourages you to steal from the music industry. Tru fax. Check out the tour dates right here. (They're coming to Florida!)

Okay, so WTF:

Why is this anime chick on the new Weezer single? That's all I really have to say about that.

The battle is on! Between Team Jack White/Alicia Keys & Team Amy Winehouse. Apparently the job of creating a new James Bond theme went to Winehouse, but the producers dropped it & went to White Keys (haha) instead. Winehouse is now threatening to release her version on the same day because it would be a "bigger hit." We shall see! [Source]

Tension is high under sea & over sky

2008-08-13T08:05:00.000-07:00

Oasis kind of sucks now & Liam Gallagher is trying desperately to keep the band relevant. Not by producing any new music or stuff like that, but on calling Radiohead & Coldplay fans "boring & ugly." Pshhh how ridiculous, at least Radiohead & Coldplay have fans. Source for more.

Pfork TV has an interview with Cut Copy. Watch them be cute with their Australian accents!

Another dance-able band that makes your feet move~ Pfork sits down & talks with Justice. Reaaaad.

Omg if you absolutely hurrrry, for a limited time, Franz Ferdinand is streaming a new song "Lucid Dreams" on their website. The song seems to lack a climax but it's a lazy, catchy alternative pop song; it definitely sounds like Franz Ferdinand. I've missed them! [Source] Whoaa, also I just visited their Myspace, & apparently they did a cover of LCD Soundsystem's "All My Friends." I never knew about this. Take a listen, FF called it "All Ma Pals" instead though.

Shake your rattlesnake skin

2008-08-09T17:26:00.000-07:00

Have you guys heard of that book which is now going to be a movie, Nick & Norah's Infinite Playlist? Well, me either, but it just became relevant in my life because Vampire Weekend did a song called "Ottoman" for it. See the whole soundtrack! Plus, Michael Cera is starring in it.

Conor Oberst's music vid for "Souled Out!!!" is out. It's actually pretty nifty!

Pitchfork has a short & sweet interview with Albert Hammond Jr., but there is no mention of recent fiance Agyness Deyn. Hmm...

Here's one reason why I need to see Girl Talk live:

Picture courtesy of Stereogum from the All Points West Festival. Click to see more, plus The Go! Team, CSS, & Radiohead.

Hit me like a gamma ray

2008-08-07T07:55:00.000-07:00

Who doesn't love Denny's food, saturated and dripping with grease? Now there's even more cause to rejoice, especially all the hung-over music lovers. If you want to enjoy a "Plain White Milkshake" or "Taking Back Bacon Burger Fries" at 2A.M., worry no more. TMA to read more!

TV On The Radio's frontman, Tunde Adebimpe, is going to be in a movie with Anne Hathaway! It's called Rachel Getting Married & it you can read more about it at Pfork. I didn't even watch the trailer but I'll probably go watch the movie just for him.

/edit

I guess while we're on the subject of getting married, it'd be appropriate to mention that Albert Hammond Jr., guitarist extraordinaire of The Strokes as well as successful solo artist, is engaged to the model chick Agyness Deyn. Sigh. As long as it doesn't get in the way of a fifth album...

I saved the best for lastttttt! Ladies & gentlemen, I present to you everyone's favorite Icelandic band, Sigur Ros~

[Source]

Castles & dodgeways & monsters & highways

2008-08-02T16:48:00.000-07:00

BE YOUR OWN PET ARE BREAKING UP? Omgz. Maybe they didn't play at Warped Tour bc they were planning on just wrapping things up? More info at Stereogum.

So my brother was reading Cokemachineglow about the Pitchfork Festival & pointed out this hilarious excerpt:

To wit: The biggest cabal of photographers I found myself smooshed against was during Boris’ set, but the photographers were taking as many pictures of the fans as they were of the band. A photo of Boris won’t make the Reader, but a photo of All The Indie Rock Kids Flipping Out At Their Little Festival may. I swear, it could’ve been heat-stroke, but I think I saw a couple of photographers taking pictures of the other photographers, an action so meta it threatens to break my dick off.

Hahaha. The whole thing is actually entertaining, but lengthy. It's a good read. Oh & by the way, Boris is a Japanese experimental band.

Concerning a different festival, Lollapalooza is happening AS I TYPE. How excitingggg to not be there. Stereogum has some pictures. Click to see Thom Yorke's wonky eye or the boys from the Bloc.

Apparently, NME has seen it fit to compile a list of 25 bands that are making "America Cool Again." So get out your winter wardrobe & see what is "cool" for America. The only thing I care about about this list, is that Girl Talk is #23 & not #2. Actually, one other thing caught my attention. The list reminded me that Kings of Leon still existed. I haven't really heard about them in a while but a visit to their site proved otherwise. They have a free d/l available if you click here!

ALSO, it seems NME is content with quantity & not quality. They like followed the same format & mediocre writing for these two articles. One about how Johnny Cash's cover of "Hurt" (Nine Inch Nails) felt like "someone kissing your girlfriend" to Trent Reznor. Also, Conor Oberst talks about his solo album & Mexico. [Source 1, Source 2]

Wow, that's a lot of news for one day. I'll leave you with the choice of watching the official video to Coldplay's "Viva La Vida" or a cover version. I only recommend watching the official one if you like Coldplay/if you want a close up of Chris Martin's green eyes/enjoy spastic twitching type movements to go along with your music. No one will know if you click.

Take the poison of your age

2008-07-31T11:36:00.000-07:00

Coolest vid ever! It's of The Arcade Fire in an elevator. With MAGAZINE PERCUSSION! Yeah that's right, magazine percussion. Don't believe me? Watch!

Compliments of someone at ONTD. Source is La Blogotheque.

Here's a little survey I found but I'm putting two choices for each because one is too hard. Do it, it's fun!

1. Musician/Band you most would want to meet?

Gregg Gillis (Girl Talk) & Vampire Weekend. Both would be ridiculously chill.

2. Song that you wish was written for/about you?

"I Will Follow You Into The Dark" by Death Cab & "Brand New Colony" by The Postal Service. What can I say, Ben Gibbard has a way with words.

3. Band you'd most want to be in?

The Arcade Fire! & oooh... it's between The Decemberists or Vampire Weekend. I'm gonna say The Decemberists. (Haha, & yes all three do have violinists).

4. Musician you would want to actually be?

Regina Spektor, obvs. & Jonny Greenwood of Radiohead haha.

5. You wish you could kill the writer/singer of _________

"The Reason" by Hoobastank (aka HoobaSUX) & "Girlfriend" by Avril. Ughhh.

6. If you could only listen to one CD ever, what would it be?

Again, I'm doing two so... Ga Ga Ga Ga Ga (Spoon) & ahh this is hard.. um probably. Ah. I can't do it. I don't know.

7. Musician/band member you would want to date?

Sufjan Stevens! & any member of Bloc Party. Actually scratch that, Patrick Wolf.

8. Song that you wish you could take credit for writing?

"Inní mér syngur vitleysingur" by Sigur Ros & "Let It Be" by THE BEATLES. Hopefully you new who that was by before I even wrote it.

9. Concert you would kill to see, even if the band is dead?

The Strokes & Sigur Ros!!!!!!

10. If you were a DJ, what would you play the most?

LCD Soundsystem & Cut Copy. Or Hot Chip or Daft Punk. But I'll stick with my original two answers.

Don't you realize I wouldn't pause

2008-07-30T19:22:00.000-07:00

I bring to you..... Vampire Weekend's "Cape Cod Kwassa Kwassa"~~

Cape Cod Kwassa Kwassa

... it's weird. [Source]

I didn't even know Thom Yorke had a brother. Much less a brother named Andy who is trying to be a musician as well. It would suck to be Thom Yorke's bro bc anything you do would be like EPIC FAIL compared to it. Especially if you wanted to be a musician & your brother was the singer of Radiohead? Yikes. Well give him a try if you want. ONTD gave the heads up!

Some other lols for you, The Rolling Stones, you may have heard of them, are leaving EMI for Universal. From one record label of the Big Four, to another. I don't get it? In the words of Tiny Mix Tapes, maybe they think they'll finally "make it big." Haha, right.

Coldplay- Viva La Vida Or Death & All His Friends

2008-07-28T10:02:00.000-07:00

With the arrival of Viva La Vida Or Death & All His Friends, Coldplay has revealed to its listeners, essentially, nothing new. They've retained the same shimmery sounds present on X&Y, kept a lot of their acoustic bases from Parachutes, and surprise, Chris Martin's voice sounds exactly the same. Depending on where you stand, this can be good or bad. Bad because Coldplay might as well release a compilation CD & call it A Rush Of Parachutes To X&Y & All His Friends for their next album & be done with it. Good because, well, Coldplay as is, is very likable. Just as long as you're not looking for a constantly evolving band (see Sigur Ros) or the new Indie "it" band of next year (see Vampire Weekend). The most experimental Coldplay gets on Viva, is on the track "Yes" & I can't say I'm a fan. A weird key & Chris Martin's low dipping vocals & awkward mix & match of Middle Eastern sounding violins & acoustic guitar; no thanks. I'd rather stick to "Viva La Vida" because of it's accessibility. Not because I'm not open to change, but because it just doesn't suit the material they've been putting out for years. "Lovers In Japan/Reign of Love" is easily the best song on the album, followed closely followed by "Death & All His Friends." Maybe it's the fact that both songs offer a two part breakdown. Maybe Coldplay should follow this format for future success. Which in their case, doesn't necessarily equate to change. Personally, I say good for Coldplay. Look what happened to The Strokes. The hype for their debut, Is This It, was ridiculous. In a good way. They put out Room On Fire, a safe album without much change. But still good. Then the critics got to them or whatever it was, & bam, Julian's voice filter was gone, the homey, genuine guitar riffing was gone & we got First Impressions of Earth. Which no one really liked. But I digress. Moral of the story is, sometimes a band can't be like Sigur Ros or Vampire Weekend. Coldplay is aware of this fact, & it's good to know they aren't pretending to be something they aren't. Viva contains no surprises & that's precisely why, believe it or not, it doesn't suck. Unless you work at Pitchfork or Urban Outfitters, there's nothing wrong with liking pure alternative pop. & who better to turn to than Coldplay?

I know I said I'd write a review like a month ago. But better late than never, right? Right. If you're so inclined to lend me your thoughts & time for a minute, lemme know what you think of this.

Alsooo, I'd like just like to say that MGMT, that's what's up. Fourth CD down on the left-menu. Check it! Besides, their website is like the shiz.

Songs Selected By The Shuffle Feature On My iTunes

2008-07-27T10:10:00.001-07:00

So I admit.. this is pretty pansy & boring of me. But I seriously couldn't think of a good topic for Sunday Selections. So I decided to let shuffle pick 10 songs out of my 7,809 songs. I'm a little wary as to what comes up, but I pinky promise that these are the first 10 songs on the first shuffle. Here goes!

1. We Tigers- Animal Collective

2. I'm Slowly Turning Into You- The White Stripes

3. Brass Monkey- Beastie Boys

4. Race : Out- Battles

5. Obstacle 2- Interpol

6. That's How I Escaped My Certain Fate- Mission Of Burma

7. She's Lost Control- Joy Division

8. The Pot- Tool

9. Rrrrrrright- Deerhoof

10. Don't Call Me Whitney, Bobby- Islands

Interesting. Speaking of interesting, ever wonder what Nirvana's Nevermind cover would look like in Legos? Click to find out here. ALSO, where in the world is Interpol? I miss them. I hope their next album is better. & I hope Paul Banks isn't too busy cavorting around with Helena Christensen. & also, lol @ Beastie Boys being on this playlist.

In a town where blood ties are only blood

2008-07-26T16:54:00.000-07:00

In reference to yesterday's post about Pitchfork's review of the Black Kids, apparently it was done on purpose. & to be insulting as well. Black Kids' leading vocals & guitarist, Reggie Youngblood had this to say about it. I personally think that while Mr. Youngblood tries to play it cool by saying nonchalantly, "I think it's the most awesome review ever" the embarrassment is hard to keep off his face. & why not? Even Weezer's Make Believe which got a whopping .4, if you forgot, got a review. [Source]

I'm trying to think of an awesome new Muxtape for tomorrow, but nothing is coming to me. Leave me suggestions?

We will free up to the beats of science

2008-07-25T09:18:00.000-07:00

So Pitchfork had a festival & I'm sure it was the shiz, as these pictures from day 1, day 2, & day 3 only prove. Speaking of other fun Pfork antics, they gave the new Black Kids album, Partie Traumatic, a 3.3 but in place of a review, therein lies a graphic with two pugs looking very "sorry" indeed. I wonder if the album was that bad or a review hasn't been written up yet. Look.

Nikolai Fraiture, bassist of The Strokes, has decided, Albert did it, Fab did it, why can't I? That's why he's started his own side project called Nickel Eye (ha.ha.) & will feature appearances from Regina Spektor & Nick Zinner (Yeah Yeah Yeahs). What is it with all of these side projects???? Just focus on your next album, PLZ. There aren't any songs up yet on Nickel Eye's Myspace, but click to friend him. (Source). Seriously, next thing, Nick & Julian will have their own bands. I'm very sadddd. :(

Also, sorry to say, but Rolling Stone, you are officially dead to me:

Dark green enough to be blue

2008-07-21T09:21:00.000-07:00

Happy Bloc Party Day! Not really, but I have two important news from the Bloc.

Bad news first. Kele Okereke got in a fight with John Lydon/Sex Pistols entourage over a racist remark aimed at Okereke. How lame, srsly. Okereke > anything to do with Sex Pistols. Apparently some members of the Kaiser Chiefs & the Foals got into the fight to on Okereke's behalf. & of all the places to be hurt on a singer, of course Okereke's lip got split. Read allll about it.

Now for the good news! Bloc Party's bassist Gordon Moakes is going to be a papa! & a thumpin' good one at that. He writes a little note on their website & advises us "young 'uns" to "keep on rockin'." Will do Gordon, will do.

Speaking of rocking, Stereogum has some pictures from the Pfork festival. It's a happy array of Fleet Foxes & Vampire Weekend so clicking can't hurt you.

Blame it on the weekends

2008-07-19T16:39:00.000-07:00

Hey! Look who's reppin' the Korean pride! None other than Karen O of the Yeah Yeah Yeahs. She has a new solo project called Native Korean Rock. Cool huh? ONTD has the details. Click to listen on her Myspace. All the songs are very love-y & wistful sounding? Very slow songs featuring mellow acoustic guitar.

Okay, guess who?

If you guessed Robert Smith of the Cure, surprisingly you're wrong. It's none other than Ezra Koenig of Vampire Weekend! He's dressed like that for the video to "Cape Cod Kwassa Kwassa." Maybe this time the running joke isn't The Royal Tenenbaums, but The Cure. Stereogum knows whats up.

One hundred telephones shake & ring

2008-07-14T15:13:00.000-07:00

Lemme just say this before we begin: I am absolutely obsessed with Girl Talk. Gregg Gillis is just so freakingggg good. Omg.

Lily Allen put a new song on her Myspace called "Who'd of Known." It's a simple love ballad. But nothing special. Allen says it won't make it on the new album. Listen here & read here.

The Hold Steady stay positive! At least in Pfork's eyes. Their new album received an 8.4, click to read the full review.

While The Hold Steady boys seem to stay positive, Coldplay seems to stay obsessed with death. Along with kicking off their tour (I need to get tickets, who wants to go with!) they released a new song for their fans called "Death Will Never Conquer." No, I guess it won't for Coldplay; that's why they keep writing songs about it. You can download the song here & read Sgum's witty commentary about the song's single/double/tripe twists here.

Leslie Feist counts to four in her song "1234" so why not replace some words & sing it on Sesame Street? Exactlyyy. Vidgum has her spesh TV appearance. I wish I could have learned counting with Feist when I was little!

So what is it with bands putting out ugly ugly UGLY album covers of late? Wolf Parade, Coldplay, Weezer, & now Of Montreal? Let's get it together, pleaseeee.

Surprise surprise, yet again Radiohead has done some awesome never before done shiz. They made their video for "House of Cards" without any cameras. Check it.

Songs To Show The World I Don't Let Pfork Control Everything I Listen To

2008-07-13T11:41:00.000-07:00

1. Checkmarks- The Academy Is

Besides his lyrics for this song is so contemptuous & sultry. Just imagine him singing this while swinging a microphone around onstage. Anyways, just one word: Williambeckett.

2. Umbrella (Rihanna Cover)- All Time Low

The dude's vocals sound like any other punk or alt band who half relies on their good looks & girl pants to make it big. But it's just even catchier than the real song!

3. Dirty Little Secret- The All American Rejects

SO FREAKING CATCHY AHHHH. I couldn't stop listening to it if the MisShapes themselves came & smacked me.

4. Stolen- Dashboard Confessional

Chris Carrabba delivers his feelings with such emotion/passion... This song is sappy though. I wonder how Conor Oberst manages to do the same thing, without being overly sappy/emo?

5. Nobody's Perfect- Hannah Montana

I may be pushing the limit here with this one.

6. This Ain't A Scene, It's An Arms Race- Fall Out Boy

I have a good excuse for this one. I dislike Patrick Stump's voice, but I do enjoy the instruments in this one; RockBand hooked me.

7. Guilty Pleasure- Cobra Starship

Um.... William Beckett sings on this one?

8. Touchdown Turnaround- Hellogoodbye

I'm a sucker for powerpop. I'll even admit, I once went to one of their concerts.

9. See You Again- Miley Cyrus

I plead the fifth.

10. Misery Business- Paramore

Hey, I'm just supporting girl vocal bands. & Bjork/Blondie doesn't really capture the angry riffing about the bitch in high school we all know about.

Okay so for the next post, expect lots of news from Pfork, Sgum, the usual. Hope this 3 day departure from the norm of tight indie constrictions, hasn't bunched your panties too much.

You never meant a word of it

2008-07-12T07:41:00.000-07:00

Picturesss!

Jack's Mannequin. I served Andrew McMahon cream of asparagus soup!

Us & the other girls on our way to serve dinner!

William Beckett!

Watching Say Anything backstage from William Beckett's shoulder!

William Beckett's lower half/picture ID haha.

Our view of Say Anything.

Gabe Saporta of Cobra Starship.

Us wandering around at the backstage/afterhours BBQ. Tour buses/cute boys galore!

Kyle Burns from FTSK riding around on his bike!

I'M NOT SURE EXACTLY WHO THIS IS WITH UYEN, ALL I KNOW IS THAT THE ASIAN BOY IN THE BACKGROUND IS THE CUTEST ASIAN BOY IN ALL OF MY LIFE.

Right after Caleb Turman asked me how old we were & I said "good" thinking he said how were we & I should have said "we're all legal, take us now" haha.

& those are a few highlights of Warped. Hope you liked le pictures :)

Take back everything you ever said

2008-07-11T12:20:00.001-07:00

I feel like a negligent mother. My kids being the four/five of you who actually read my blog. I know I haven't updated in a while & my apologiez. But today I have lots to write about. So besides liking what I call are "Pitchfork Pleasers" (meaning, Pfork approved bands) I also like a few bands like The Academy Is, Say Anything, & Jack's Mannequin. Not saying that those bands suck, they absolutely do not; they're just different from what I usually listen to. & contrary to sneering Pfork reviewers, music is not about snobbery or hipster cred; it's about feeling.

So you may have heard of a little tour called Warped Tour. Yesterday was my second time attending & if I go again next year, it'll be hard to top. There's live music, free stuff everywhere, cute boys galore, all in all just good times. So my friends & I had just sucked up FREE Monster slurpees (delish!) when we were approached by a lady who asked us if we wanted to help serve dinner to the 600 Warped Tour members, in exchange for backstage passes. Obvs, we were in. The lady brought us behind the fences of one of the stages & there were like lots & lots of tour buses & the pavilion where we served food & used the private bathrooms to wash our hands (here we saw the all-Asian girl ska band, ORESKABAND, waiting to take showers). It was Meg, Uyen, & I & 6 other girls who stood at a buffet line, serving out our respective dishes (cream of asparagus soup for me) to people like Parker Case (Say Anything), Andrew McMahon (Jack's Mannequin), Matt Thiessen (Relient K), & Aaron Barrett of Reel Big Fish. EPIC. So for only two hours of our time, we were allowed to go backstage to where ever we wanted, escorted by this cute hipster boy who Meg fell in love with. He gave us a tour of the tour bus area & pointed out Tom Delonge's tour bus (it was purple-ish) & we saw all of Gym Class Heroes walking out of their tour bus. We then went to see Say Anything, & as we were waiting for them to go on, who should we see but William Beckett of The Academy Is! We took pictures & shiz & I showed him the back of my shirt (Uyen & I had made sweet shirts) which was of a wordsearch featuring the names of the bands I wanted to see, & obvs, The Academy Is was on it. Later, on the stage, Uyen said she saw William pointing out my shirt to the guitarist & bassist of Jack's Mannequin, Matt from Relient K, & I think Gabe Saporta of Cobra Starship was there too. The best part though, is yet to come. After the last set, the volunteers were asked back for a backstage BBQ which of course we went. We took some more pictures, saw Katy Perry (HAHA) met some more people, I saw THE CUTEST Asian boy ever (Kevin, who hangs with Forever The Sickest Kids) & it was just cool to see a whole different side of the bands just chilling with each other & riding around on bikes & stuff. Plus, some cute boy from Forever The Sickest Kids kind of hit on us.... haha basically, Warped was superfantastiche... I was lucky to meet a lot of cool & genuine people. I promise to post pictures later!

Los Angeles, I'm yours

2008-07-05T14:32:00.000-07:00

Sup guys. Hope everyone had a fab 4th 'o' July, filled with fireworks & BBQ & the like. Today, you guys are gonna get the Cliff Notes version of things:

Stereogum has a new Mogwai song available for free download. I took a quick listen to it & it's pretty shweeet.

Pitchfork has compiled a list probably filled with more than you ever need to know about upcoming albums & such. Nevertheless, it is very informative. They also have an interview with The Notwist! There's some pretty deep stuff in it.

Tinymixtapes claims Conor Oberst goes in EVERY SINGLE country. Be that as it may, he fails to visit Florida. If you happen to be anywhere in the world besides Florida or the Middle East, chances are you get to see bright-eyed (haha) Conor. Check itttt.

I saved the best for last! (Elizabeth, you'll appreciate this one). Some Youtuber gave a (deservedly so) bad review of Katy Perry's "I Kissed A Girl" & she actually responded to it! Very lame, very funny, & the dude is pretty cute. Click for the lolz.

Shakedown 1979

2008-07-02T20:21:00.000-07:00

This post is basically a "things I love" post. It's about.... well it's rather self-explanatory.

First off, my twin (in looks & thoughts & everything), Elizabeth has started a blog. She's relatively intelligent (haha jkz, she's the smartest person I know) & has good taste in music. So you should visit- Say Parcheezie! Oh & she makes fun of Katy Perry which is a plus! Haha.

In her most recent post, she made a list of her current 10 fav songs. I'm gonna be a copyKat (lolz) & do the same except just 5 because.... just because.

1. Let Me See You- Girl Talk

Greg Gillis, youz the man! The Fleetwood Mac with the Trina sample goes over like silk for the ears!

2. Gobbledigook- Sigur Ros

I like this new driven direction Sigur Ros has found in guitar riffs & shorter songs.

3. Lovers In Japan/Reign of Love- Coldplay

While you don't get any hipster cred for listening to Coldplay, & while they still sound the same, & the new album is very predictable, they don't suck. Take Coldplay for what it's worth & you'll find it's better than most the stuff on the radio. Actually I don't listen to the radio but I'm sure my statement is fairly accurate. Care to confirm anyone?

4. The Kids Don't Stand A Chance- Vampire Weekend

Yeah you already know. I love 'em.

5. Let It Be- The Beatles

Classic. Yes. Cliche? Only made such by those who only know about "Yellow Submarine" & wear peace signs like they're the new trendy accessory.

Next order of biz, IF YOU HAVEN'T SEEN WALL-E YOU NEED TO DROP EVERYTHING IN YOUR LIFE & GO SEE IT. SO GOOD. Srsly, WALL-E is everything I'm looking for in a boy. Not afraid to commit, quirky (funny), cute, hard-working, loyal... <3!

Also I'm reading High Fidelity by Nick Hornby. I love it so far & I'm only 75 pages in! While reading, I spotted this gem of a passage that I couldn't wait to show you guys. It's the main character talking, Rob, who works in a record store:

"Have you got any soul?" a woman asks the next afternoon. That depends, I feel like saying; some days yes, some days no. A few days ago I was right out; now I've got loads, too much, more than I can handle. I wish I could spread it a bit more evenly, I want to tell her, get a better balance, but I can't seem to get it sorted. I can see she wouldn't be interested in my internal stock control problems though, so I simply point to where I keep the soul I have, right by the exit, just next to the blues.

I don't know, but whole thing just really struck a deep chord with me. Maybe it had the same effect on you, maybe not.

& now I conclude with the Cure pictures (compliments of my brother) I promised you like two weeks ago. :)

doesn't that last picture make you wish you were at that concert instead of studying at home for the ACT the next day which turns out you epic failed anyways? Yeah, me too.

Horse shapen fire, dragging stereo wire

2008-07-01T16:03:00.000-07:00

Guess what? Franz Ferdinand wrote a song about me! It's called "Katherine Kiss Me" & let me tell you, I would have no qualms about doing that. Lolz. Compliments of Stereogum & Youtube:

They still seem very much Franz Ferdinand-like with their tight, interlocking guitar parts, same vocals, & same dance-ablity, not to mention the same onstage charm!

Songs To Listen While Shopping Through Ikea

2008-06-29T09:46:00.000-07:00

All of these songs hail from........ you guessed it! Sweden! This week's muxtape was inspired by the fabulous Ikea. Nothing but love for Sweden! Click to listen.

1. Maple Leaves (EP Version)- Jens Lekman

2. In The Morning- Razorlight

3. Heartbeats- Jose Gonzalez (I get double points bc it is a Swede covering another Swedish band's song!)

4. Dance With Me- The Sounds

5. Collection of Stamps- I'm From Barcelona

6. Pass This On- The Knife

7. Young Folks- Peter Bjorn & John

8. Lovefool (Radio Edit)- The Cardigans

9. Main Offender- The Hives

10. Make Out Fall Out Make Up- Love Is All

Memory is a fickle siren song

2008-06-25T11:25:00.000-07:00

Yo. Did you notice the latest addition to the sidebar? That way it's easier for you to get to the weekly Muxtape. Speaking of which, I already have a kick arse selection planned for this Sunday. I'll give you a hint: Ikea.

Anyways. What with all the new album releases, (Coldplay, Fleet Foxes, Wolf Parade, Sigur Ros, Girl Talk), I'm settling down & giving everything a good listen. Thennnnn I'm going to work on a review for one of the albums. Be excited.

Oh & I leave you with this. Gene Simmons of KISS being RETARDED. He dissed Radiohead & Nine Inch Nails for ruining the music industry. Psh. Read on.

Hopping into puddles

2008-06-23T09:16:00.000-07:00

If there's one thing I do before I die, it's going to be attending a Sigur Ros concert. Why? Because:

Thanks to Sgum click here to see more videos & pictures of Sigur Ros being BAMFs. "Gobbledigook" (song in the video) is prob one of my fav Sigur Ros songs. But they're all so good. Have you heard their new album? Well you need to because it's the shiz.

Have you ever found yourself wanting to know where Albert Hammond Jr. hangs out in NY? Or what Snow Patrol recommends to do in Glasgow? I know at some point in time I've wished that members of Art Brut would share to me their "cribs" in England. Well rest easy, because a German Publisher brings to you: the Indie Travel Guide. Cool?

DEVENDRA BANHART & FAB MORETTI OF THE STROKES & SOME OTHER PEOPLE OF NO CONSEQUENCE ARE IN A BAND? Dubs.tee.eff. When did this happen? Miss Modern Age has the full scoop. Fab, you need to get in the studio with Nick & Julian & Albert & Nikolai & start on a beautiful new album. None of this new band stuff.

Songs From Movies With Good Taste In Music

2008-06-22T09:56:00.000-07:00

MUXTAPE.

1. One Way Or Another- Blondie

Mean Girls. Yes, Mean Girls. It was actually a good movie.

2. We're Going To Be Friends- The White Stripes

Napoleon Dynamite. The hype at my school about this movie was kinda like the hype of Vampire Weekend or The Strokes on music blogs everywhere. I didn't think it was that great though. But his dance moves were pretty sweet.

3. Immigrant Song- Led Zeppelin

The soundtrack from School of Rock was a little too rock'n'roll for me, but Zep is classic. The "Celloo-ho, it's a bass!"

4. Caring Is Creepy- The Shins

For all of you who think I have bad taste in movies & so far have chosen "mainstream" or sucky movies, here's a song from Garden State. Who can deny the hardcore indieness of this film? With the Shins loving Natalie Portman & song choices of Coldplay & Iron & Wine.

5. The Book I Write- Spoon

Spoon wrote this song for Stranger Than Fiction. It was a little darker than I was expecting. The movie I mean. As for the song, I absolutely love the song & wish Spoon would release it on an EP or something. Anyways, what movie can say they've featured a Maximo Park or M83 song as well?

6. Search & Destroy- Iggy & The Stooges

Now we reach a film by my favorite director, Wes Anderson. While The Life Aquatic With Steve Zissou wasn't my favorite Anderson film (we'll talk about that in a minute), it was still an entertaining movie with a pretty original plot line. Finding a jaguar shark to avenge a friend's death? Yeah. So I think this song represents the movie pretty nicely.

7. What Ever Happened?- The Strokes

I bet you knew I couldn't refrain from featuring a Strokes song. Well you were right. Okay so not going to lie, Marie Antoinette was a big disappointment. I'd read two books about her including the one the movie was based on. The movie was just.... fail. Basically it was just an eye candy movie. Cool costumes, nice scenery, colorful cakes everywhere. & nice ear candy too, what with the Cure & New Order in the background & all.

8. These Days- Nico

Now we get to my favorite Anderson movie as well as my favorite movie of all time. The Royal Tenenbaums. I absolutely lovelovelovelove this movie as well as the music. I think every song just compliments the scene it appears in.

9. The Call- Regina Spektor

You may remember this post about this song a while back. It's from The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian. I kind of feel like a loser for admitting I like this movie... but the pull of the Wardrobe is just too strong! Rather, the pull of William Moseley. Haha. Whatevs. This is such a good song. I love Regina Spektor. I love William Moseley. I love this movie. So there.

10. Anyone Else But You- The Moldy Peaches

You've probably been waiting, saying what kind of "Songs From Movies With Good Taste In Music" Muxtape would this be without something from Juno! We'll it wouldn't be, so that's why this is here.

So now that I've somewhat introduced the topic of movies, & The Royal Tenenbaums, it seems only fit that I should show you the new Vampire Weekend music-mini-movie for "Oxford Comma." It's done in a style a la Tenenbaums, if you've seen it before, you'll see what I mean.

Also, did you know Ezra Koenig used to be a school teacher? What I wouldn't give to have had him as MY teacher..... click for the full story.

Speaking of The Shins, the same Shins from Garden State, they're starting their own record label say what?

If you want to see something pretty click hurrr. It's Conor Oberst's new album cover & the first time he's put himself on one. He seems a lot cleaner.

[Source1]

[Source2]

Jack White Gains, Ben Gibbard Loses

2008-06-16T19:13:00.001-07:00

As in weight. No seriously, check out these pics from Bonnarooooo!

More pics from the three days at source 1, source 2, source 3.

Ben is lookin' qt. Even more so in this vid:

(via Sgum)

Okay, so if you didn't already know, everybody hates Coldplay. Proof follows:

-Chris Martin walks out on an interview

-Pfork gives the album a not bad but a not good score

-Johnny Rotten of Sex Pistols basically says everything about Coldplay sucks

-Accusations of thievery

-& this is older but still prob accurate, Coldplay is voted most boring

Yeah, can I take your digits?

2008-06-13T19:08:00.000-07:00

I don't know about you but I love Lily Allen. & not gonna lie, I read her Myspace blog. In light of recent events, you should too. Basically, Perez Hilton (click for his Wiki entry), is doing is normal job of being a d-bag. Even more so than usual bc he bashed Lily & said a buncha slanderous retarded things. Read Lily's blog for what he said, & then her retort: Part 1 & Part 2. & who the heck is this Katy Perry person I keep incessantly hearing about? Prob someone NOT better than Lily Allen in any way, & definitely a person of no consequence as she doesn't even have a Pfork entry? TEAM LILY FTW! Also I came across this interview (courtesy of someone at ONTD) between Lily & Mark Ronson (oooh!) that is yes, I know over a year old, but a very cute/funny read.

It's been a while since we've heard anything from Franz Ferdinand but a murky peep has emerged! Behold!

If you wanna see some weird pics of Jack White with The Raconteurs (& by weird I mean his pasty makeup/bruised looking eyeshadow) you can do just that at ONTD.

Right now, my brother is at a Cure concert. Why am I not sitting 10 feet away from The Cure with him you ask? Well it's bc I have the stupid ACT tomorrow. He should get some good pics hopefully, which I'll post. & actually, he just left me a voicemail of a horrible sound quality of "Just Like Heaven" (my fav Cure song as well as one of my all time fav songs).

...& you're like, no not in a million years, you're nasty please leave me alone.

I like the peace in the backseat

2008-06-10T10:00:00.000-07:00

Zomg!~

I absolutely loveeeee this picture. Srsly.

Anyways, remember this post? Well, Converse has released the song by Julian Casablancas (my bf), Santogold, & Pharrell Williams (pictured above). You can download here at their site (if you prefer MP3 to zip files, try this site instead). It almost sounds M.I.A.ish to me. I like it, catchy enough for a Converse jingle anyways. [Source-TMA]

Cruel professors, studying romances

2008-06-09T14:20:00.000-07:00

Okay, well maybe Uyen is a little tooo much of a faithful reader... haha jaykay. Any feedback (even grammatical errors) is appreciated.

You know how cool Bjork & Sigur Ros are? My two most favvvv Icelandic peepz are doing this cool thing for the benefit of the Icelandic environment. Something like that. All I know is that if you live in Iceland, I'm supa jealous of you. Check it!

Okay so you know how I regretfully did not have any concert pics of Vampire Weekend? Well my friend Meg went to the in-store performance at this darling little CD shop we love called Park Ave & managed to take a few pics. So here they are, compliments to my one & only Meg!

"This one goes out to Tom Petty"

2008-06-08T15:13:00.000-07:00

Thanks to my faithful reader, Uyen, (maybe my only reader?) for pointing out my formatting is messed up on my previous post. I'm not sure how to fix it, but apologies.

SO LAST NIGHT WAS VAMPIRE WEEKEND. Yeaaaaah! Basically it was pretty epic from start to fin. It started out as my brother & I were walking past all the people who had gotten there (edited thanks to UYEN) earlier, to get in line. It was a long walk. An especially long walk to see all the people there looked SO OLD. I didn't know old people liked Vampire Weekend? But whatevs, it's cool. Except when it was kind of an 18+ show & I am kind of not 18 yet, I was hoping the median age group would be a little more in the early 20s rather than early 40s so I could blend in. I digress. It took so long to get in, even longer because of my anxiety, but yes, I managed to get in; the chick scanning our tickets didn't even look up to see my not-yet-18-guilty-face. The opening band was the Harlem Shakes. They were pretty good. Each member of the band was so into the music as their facial expressions revealed. Then. Then FINALLY, at 11:05, Vampire Weekend came on. Omg so beautiful. My brother thought they lost a charm when they played live, but I actually thought they brought a charm absent on the album. Ezra Koenig was witty & engaging, but hey, what to expect from a Columbia grad, right? Someone threw a shirt at Ezra when he commented lightly on our lack of dancing skills during "A-Punk" & he proceeded to wipe the bottom of his shoes with the shirt (wish it was mine haha). & Rostam Batmanglij was ridiculously cute after dedicating their one encore (Ezra came back on stage & said "We have one more song left, & no, we're not fucking around, we literally have one song left.") "Walcott" to Tom Petty. Oh & I must say I really enjoyed Rostam's more present vocal harmony in their live playing. Their setlist consisted of all their album songs as well as "Ladies of Cambridge" & one new song that I must say filled my heart with joy, it was so superfantastiche! Their playing was so well intertwined together & they were all so cute & wonderful. My only disappointment was their lack of merch (one ugg shirt, no poster) & a small selections of songs. But whatevs, next time around they'll have two albums worth of songs & hopefully a nicer shirt. Oh & I'm sorry to say I don't have any pictures, compliments of the two big-shouldered oafs in front of me. Even so, with my obscured vision & the SAT that morning & my anxiety attack, I had a pretty nice (vampire) weekend (haha sorry, couldn't resist)!

I will try to fix you

2008-06-06T13:01:00.000-07:00

Holla at summer!!!!

Watch this cutesy vid of the making of "Pork & Beans." That is, if you aren't already full of Weezer (haha). But trust me, it's fun.

Weezer - The Making of "Pork and Beans"

Lolz, read this NY Mag interview with Lou Reed. Mr. Sunshine basically tells the mag to you know what, off. [Source]

Thanks to Sgum, I have been made aware of this awesome site, blackcabsessions.com & I have now taken it upon myself to make you,

the reader, aware of this site as well. They have cool vids of nice little musicians playing in the back of a black cab. Creative, no?

I particularly enjoyed the Death Cab one as well as the violinist, Charlie Siem. Enjoy!

Oh, & tomorrow, after I take the dreaded SAT's, I shall be attending Vampire Weekend! I'll be write lots about it & depending on how

close I get to the stage, you'll get pictures too.

Golden slumbers fill your eyes

2008-06-02T14:28:00.000-07:00

What we knew all along, but Pfork tells us anyways: Weezer's Red Album was a step below Maladroit, granted, a lot better than Make Believe, and nowhere near the genius of Blue or Pinkerton. Sadly enough, here's the review.

Something that generates a little more excitement and a more welcoming ear, is the new Ladytron album, Velocifero. Here's a tantalizing morsel of what Pfork had to say:

...Mira Aroyo, relatively scarce on Witching Hour, has more opportunities to showcase her icy, sharp, often-foreboding voice, singing in her native Bulgarian with a sinister deadpan on "Black Cat" and a sleek, mellifluous energy on traditional folk song "Kletva"; in English her raspy purr turns the circa-1990 techno-pop of "Deep Blue" into a seething come-on.

Click for full read.

Here's something about Coldplay if you wanna read. Sgum is the source. For some reason peepz are calling it a rip off of Arcade Fire? I don't hear it at all. It's too poppy/mainstream to be anything like Arcade Fire.

A heart of stone, a smoking gun

2008-05-27T14:21:00.000-07:00

Lots of goodies for today!

Thanks to Pfork, you can stream Wire's new song "One of Us" here.

Also, you can thank them for the heads up on the new Black Kids vid for "Hurricane Jane":

It's full of magical looking sparkly things.

Next order of biz, is a whole lotta new Sigur Ros shiz. You can watch a new video (NSFW for n00ds) & download their new single "Gobbledigook" at their website. Omg, the song is sooo good. Seriously. Just the right amount of old Sigur Ros plus new. It also, as my brother pointed out, has sort of a Dave Matthews Band type of acoustic riffing. Listen to "Grey Street" by DMB & you'll see what I mean. You can thank Sgum for those heads up as well as a buzz in our ear; apparently the translation for the album is "with a buzz in our ears we play endlessly" or "með suð í eyrum við spilum endalaust" in Icelandic. Visit Sgum for some facts about the new album!

Alsoooo check out NME for news about Feist, Ben Gibbard, The National, The Decemberists, and other sweet artists doing a compilation for 'Red Hot' charity album. That should be cool, no? (Thnx ONTD for the tip)

Songs To Welcome The Advent Of Summer/Happy Memorial Day!

2008-05-25T07:49:00.001-07:00

Hope this muxtape goes well with your BBQ & sunny weather!

1. Consolation Prizes- Phoenix

2. The Underdog- Spoon

3. Trains To Brazil- Guillemots

4. I Feel It All- Feist

5. Crooked Teeth- Death Cab For Cutie

6. Tropical-Iceland- The Fiery Furnaces

7. Campus- Vampire Weekend

8. I'm Always In Love- Wilco

9. Oregon Girl- Someone Still Loves You Boris Yeltsin

10. Don't Call Me Whitney, Bobby- Islands

I used to be sad, now I'm just bored with you

2008-05-24T10:48:00.000-07:00

Is everyone excited for the Memorial Day Weekend? To celebrate, have lots of BBQ for eating & lots of Stereogum Memorial Day MP3 Mixes for listening! I will say though, tomorrow I shall be posting a muxtape with the same summer-ish/BBQ feeling theme. Tell me which one you like better.

Speaking of another kind of weekend, Vampire Weekend's Rostam Batmanglij leaked a previous version of "Campus" that I must say I enjoy quite a lot. It may or may not be due to the fact that it's a lot more strings-heavy. Listen & d/l here.

Along with Memorial Day, summer is also nearing on us! Pfork gives us a list of the festivals that are going on. If you live or are going to visit anyone of these places, I suggest you attend one of the many festivals that are going to happen. You can tell me all about it & make me a very jealous person.

& now, I shall leave you with some Cure pictures & videos, compliments of someone over at ONTD.

You're a silver lining the clouds

2008-05-19T16:30:00.000-07:00

If you're finding a lack of things to commend Coldplay for lately, such as their new single "Violet Hill" & the music vid/political statement for it or their album art/title, etc, read on & they might redeem themselves in your eyes. If buying $6000 piano for a primary school that lost all its musical instruments in a flood is the sort of thing that impresses you. For the story read here & thanks here for the heads up. For s'more of Coldplay, take a gander at TMA for why they are "afraid to leave Grandma's house."

No need to say goodbye

2008-05-18T11:59:00.000-07:00

Since it's such a happy Sunday, I thought it warranted two posts (to catch up for my lack thereof in the past week).

So what's everybody's thoughts with all these celebrity turned musicians? Do you think it's fair that they already have a large fan base from which to catapult their musical careers? Can you take them seriously? Or will they forever belong on screen in your eyes?

Personally, I think they have a chance to be respected as musicians just like everyone else.

Here's a few things that might help you form your opinion on these celeb/musicmakers:

-A Pfork interview with Scarlett Johansson regarding her upcoming LP of Tom Waits' covers.

-She & Him's Myspace site, ft. the standout vocals of Zooey Deschanel with M. Ward's accompaniment.

-This video of Tom Felton & his bluesy acoustic guitar.

What do you think?

Songs To Dance Your Pants Off With

2008-05-18T07:14:00.000-07:00

...because your AP exams are done!

Happy Sunday, because here is your long promised Muxtape!

Track listing for future reference:

1. One More Time- Daft Punk

2. Waters of Nazareth- Justice

3. Nobody Lost, Nobody Found- Cut Copy

4. XR2- M.I.A.

5. And I Was A Boy From School- Hot Chip

6. Tribulations- LCD Soundsystem

7. Deceptacon- Le Tigre

8. Wrong Galaxy- Shit Robot

9. House of Jealous Lovers- The Rapture

10. Bounce That- Girl Talk

By now you should know that anything Strokes/Julian Casablancas related catches my eye. So here it is. Apparently, Pharrell Williams, Santogold, and Julian will be making a little jingle for a Converse commercial. Visit Stereogum if you're as excited as me to hear anything that Julian will have a part in.

Also, if you haven't watched Prince Caspian yet, (featuring my number one celeb crush, William Moseley!!!!!!!!) then you'll be pleasantly surprised with the ending song. I know I was, when I heard Regina Spektor's melodic voice fill the theater. I wasn't familiar with the song & I remember thinking how perfectly the words managed to capture the scene. I went home to look it up and discovered the name "The Call" (click for lyrics) & that I think she wrote it specifically for the movie. The song really cinched the ending of the movie for me, & I admit it made me tear up a little. Thanks to the Hype Machine, you can download the song here.

I fly like paper get high like planes

2008-05-13T14:45:00.000-07:00

I know I didn't post a new muxtape on Sunday. MY B. With AP exams this week, I'm super busy but one will be up on this Sunday, pinky promise.

Sigur Ros tantalizes us with mysterious incoherent bits of videos for their new album. Look hurrrr. Visit Pfork for their expanded tour dates.

After we've all had a little taste of "Pork and Beans" Weezer has decided that us, fans, need a bigger bite. They've decided to move up the release date for the Red Album. Yarrr. (News via Pfork)

Reviews are up for Death Cab's Narrow Stairs & Nine Inch Nails' The Slip.

Also, listen to the new Cure single. It's pretty magical! Click to experience. My bruhhh is excited to see them in June. He acquired 5th row seats. I know not how.

You used to be alright, what happened?

2008-05-07T17:02:00.000-07:00

So last night I got to see talent. Real live musical talent/genius manifested in a band called, Radiohead. Seriously, OMGZ. Pics~

This is my bro smiling because of our ridiculously, fantastic, 9th row, orchestra seating.

This is Radiohead & their ridiculously fantastic lighting & big screen system.

This is me & my bro in our matching $40 ridiculously overpriced (yet fantastic) concert shirts. It's lyrics from "Bodysnatchers." I'll give someone a dollar if they can tell me what it says without Googling it.

Needless to say, Radiohead was amazing. It was so surreal, I kept asking myself, "Am I really 50 feet away from Thom Yorke? Is that even the real Thom Yorke???" Yep, it was. Each member was incredibly talented & the flawlessness to which the show was run with the lights & big screen & whatnot, was just so impressive. Johnny Greenwood was up there shaking a small percussion instrument with one hand & then playing piano with the other with his guitar slung around his neck. A second later he'd run over to do the synth. Thom Yorke's dancing was intense, spastic, highly amusing, & extremely awe-inspiring. They opened up with "All I Need" & they did two encores, the last song being "House of Cards." The entire night was a memorable experience from start to finish for several reasons. Actually I can't name them all. Oh & also, Liars, the opening band, is very noteworthy. A very rhythm heavy band whose lead singer, Agnus Andrew, entertained the audience with his dance moves, resembling those of ritual performed by a shaman priest.

Intense.

Champion of missed opportunities

2008-05-05T18:55:00.000-07:00

Remember this "innovation smackdown" I mentioned a while ago between NIN & Radiohead? Well it looks like NIN is trying to one-up Radiohead & is offering their new album for freee right here. Sounds all too familiar huh?

Anyways, speaking of Radiohead, I might be going to see them tomorrow night. Hopefully it works out in my favor.

Give me your eyes I need sunshine

2008-05-04T08:59:00.000-07:00

Long time no update!

Head over to Stereogum where they have a premature evaluation of the new Wolf Parade. The album is called At Mount Zoomer & I am sorry to say the album art is... let's just say I hope the music is nothing like the cover, yeah?

Yeah.

New band alert! Titus Andronicus. Mmm so good. Who couldn't love a band that sounds like it was named after a transformer? Read what Pfork had to say about them but I disagree that their frontman sounds like the angry howl of Conor Oberst. I don't hear it really at all.

Oh & apparently, along with rock'n'roller, Jack White can add "life saver" to his list of accomplishments. At a recent Raconteurs show in Kansas City, some lady fainted (probably because of the overwhelming feeling of lurve she was experiencing) & instead of a burly bouncer rescuing her, Mr. Jack White went in the crowd, picked her up, and put her backstage. Then he continued with the song. Kudos, Jack, you deserve some peppermints. Read about it here. (Via TMA)

Take a listen to the new Coldplay song on their Mspace. What do you think? A little more crunchier sounding than their previous stuff I'd say.

I promise you guys a new playlist next Sunday!

Umbrella ella ella ey ey ey

2008-04-29T14:27:00.000-07:00

So Pfork has this awesome summary of Coachella that won't quench the emptiness in your heart that you missed out on such a wonderful thing in life, but it'll tie you over for a while. It has this amazing review of Cut Copy & I must again say, you need to listen to them nowwww. Because they are just that good.

Check out this new vid for Tapes'n Tapes "Walk It Off." It's fairly entertaining.

(Source)

Also, though not quite as entertaining, is the new Guillemots video for "Falling Out Of Reach." I seriously used to be in love with the Guillemots. I still am kinda, just the way Fyfe Dangerfield's melodic voice just so cavalierly washes over the instruments. I think he's probably in my top 5 for a vocalist.

(Source)

Songs To Appreciate The Acoustic Guitar

2008-04-27T07:35:00.001-07:00

So let's try something new... for this week's Sunday Selections, click hurrr.

I'll leave that particular playlist up until whenever it's time for a new Sunday Selection so enjoy this new format!

Lights and music are on my mind

2008-04-26T16:08:00.000-07:00

Omg you have to listen to Cut Copy. Right now. They are like the best of Hot Chip & New Order. Seriously, you need to listen. They'll be on my albums of the year list, guaranteed.

Wazz^^ California! Coachella, that's what's up. Stereogum, as always has the lowdown. If I could pick any music festival to attend, I would pick Coachella. Since it's always right after my birthday (April 24) I have promised myself that before I die, I will go to Coachella. But for now, I shall have to content myself in checking Sgum updates.

You have stolen my heart

2008-04-22T13:45:00.000-07:00

Basically, this month is super busy. Everything is gonna go down within in these next few weeks. Meaning, yes, I will soon be enjoying Radiohead in concert, but also my AP exams are nearing!! Plus, this Thursday is my 17th birthday. Oh & did you know on Saturday, it was Record Store Day? Well it was & if you've never heard of it, go learn something new here. Also, today is Earth Day. So happy late Record Store Day & happy Earth Day!

Remember when I mentioned Conor Oberst a while back? Well apparently he's going to do a solo tour & album & stuff. Actually it's basically going to be Bright Eyes, but he's decided to just call it "Conor Oberst." Cool.

Okay so I saved the best news for last. A FOURTH STROKES' ALBUM IS IN THE WORKS. Yesssssss. Lovelovelovelovelove. Read if you don't believe me! I seriously wouldn't mind if they went back to their old sound, pre-First Impressions of Earth, because well, even though they were criticized for not changing their sound enough on their second album, it's the sound that makes them The Strokes. However I still enjoyed First Impressions & they can do no wrong in my eyes. Yippeee!

I'm alot like you so please, hello I'm here

2008-04-17T16:02:00.000-07:00

If you head over to weezer.com, you can see they've revamped the website to make it match the "red" theme of their new album. Also you can stream the full length version of a new song, Pork & Beans. I don't know what to think. It's definitely not Pinkerton material but it's hands down better than Beverly Hills. The riffing sounds familiar, more like a mix of Maladroit & Green with the comical, slightly "self-deprecating" (as Stereogum described it) lyrics reminiscent of Blue Album: "Timbaland knows the way to reach the top of the chart/ maybe if i work with him I can perfect the art I'ma do the things I wanna do I ain't got a thing to prove to you." We'll see though.

Speaking of new songs, Franz Ferdinand has been under the radar for a while until now! They have emerged from a basement it seems, tantalizing us with a small taste, rather a lick, of one of their new songs. News/video from Stereogum:

I rooted around Google & found these two interviews at Billboard.com & The Tripwire where Alex Kapranos describes the album as "the opposite of punk/pop" & also how Paul Thompson was listening to a lot of African stuff which would come through as well.

I must say, I am thoroughly excited!

Also, I seriously recommend listening to Seabear. Their song, I Sing I Swim, kinda reminds me of Belle & Sebastian. They just have that overall Sufjan Stevens/Islands quality. I mentioned them in this Sunday Selections, a while back.

The skyline looked like crooked teeth

2008-04-15T17:49:00.000-07:00

I've been hearing stuff for a while about Cajun Dance Party on Stereogum & now you can download a song off their album to come. I listened to the songs on their Myspace & they remind me of a softer version of the Arctic Monkeys. Valid assessment? I really recommend listening to Amylase.

Okay so you know that one Spoon song Small Stakes & it has the lyrics "I don't dig the Stripes/ but I go for Har Mar"? Well apparently Britt Daniel has retracted this statement to say that he now is a fan of the White Stripes. Read the rest of the muy interestante interview he had with Pfork.

Anywaysss, so today I walk into Publix for a little shopping with my mom & I stop in the middle of the cereal/dry goods aisle because I can't believe what I was hearing. FEIST. Yes. Publix was playing 1234. Thx Publix for making shopping a pleasure.

Songs To Help Maintain My Emotional Stability

2008-04-13T10:24:00.000-07:00

...As AP exams/the SAT/ACT/Symphony audition near.

1. Let It Be- The Beatles

2. Ceremony- New Order

3. Fake Empire- The National

4. Hotel Chelsea Nights- Ryan Adams

5. Jesus, etc.- Wilco

6. Raindrops- Regina Spektor

7. I Heard You Looking- Yo La Tengo

8. This Aching Deal- The Shocking Pinks

9. First Day Of My Life- Bright Eyes

10. Advance Cassette- Spoon

If you couldn't surmise, I am frrrreaking out about school & my life & just zomg & I seriously just need to chill. But it's really hard seeing as how tomorrow I'll resume the daily torture that is high school.

Anyways, I kinda rediscovered Bright Eyes & I was wondering what happened to Conor Oberst?? He went from emo heartthrob to a blue-haired... I don't even know, grandpa? I think it was that weird spiritualist camp he went to.

Pre Cassadaga:

Post Cassadaga:

All I know is that I used to be in love with him (I named my first iPod after him) & now I am slightly creeped out by his appearance.

So on Friday I went to shopping & I must say these stores are doing everything they can to attract the hippest of the hip to buy their over-priced merchandise. Take for example, Hollister. Can you say SENSORY OVERLOAD? Their biting perfume/cologne scent was all over the store & the pounding music & the dim lighting with the fake foliage everywhere made it very hard for me to actually see their clothes. I was too busy sneezing/squinting my eyes & dodging the random fake plants they had placed every which where. No wonder I've never bought any of their stuff. Sometimes though, they play cool music & I looked online to see if they had anything on the music selection they play in the stores. Imagine my horror as I discovered Vampire Weekend alongside Simple Plan. Look.

Darling, your head's not right

2008-04-07T17:16:00.000-07:00

Apparently Bob Dylan has won a special music Pulitzer Prize or something. Sweet deal huh? Only 38 music prizes have ever been given out. Which reminds me I still need to see that Bob Dylan movie where a bunch of different people play him.

Don't forget to check out Pitchfork.tv. The interviews in the very first video are hilarious.

Okay so I'm on the prom committee & I have to have a list of songs for the DJ at my Prom to play. Any suggestions? The pre-approved "DJ" needs to realize the Electric Slide & the Chicken dance are not acceptable. Especially when played more than once. I hate school dances for two reasons:

1. I never hear any Hot Chip/LCD Soundsystem & instead I hear songs that promote getting low & "apple bottom jeans & boots wit da fur." Also when the DJ plays aforementioned uncultured dance rituals more than once.

2. I see couples performing what looks like sex with clothes on on the dancefloor. No thanks.

Broken heartbeats sound like breakbeats

2008-04-05T17:18:00.001-07:00

Cue the jealousy. My supa cool brother just got me an Atlas Sound poster as well as a Los Campesinos one! Granted I have to get into the Atlas Sound, but it's two more for the growing collection on my walls.

Yeah, basically.

So the rumors are true. Weezer has confirmed that their new album will be, for the third time, a self-titled album. This time though, it'll be red. Don't believe me? I don't want to either but Pitchfork never lies.

Speaking of Pitchfork, on Monday the website will open up Pitchfork.tv. The site will offer music videos & interviews. Not gonna lie, I'm pretty excited. Read up on all that jazz here.

ZOMG alert! The 2008 Lollzapalooza lineup has been confirmed! Well at least part of it. If you're lucky enough to be able to attend, check out Stereogum for the lineup. You can check it out even if you're not going to just make yourself hate life even more. Bloc Party? Radiohead? Nine Inch Nails? Kanye West? Wilco?? BBL, crying. Not to mention, reading more of Stereogum just gave me another reason to cry. Apparently Entertainment Weekly just described Phantom Planet as "...such excellent Arcade Fire-style anthem builders." What do you think? Take a listen at EW.com & tell me you too, think the writer/listener was on drugs.

Postscript: Almost Famous is a really good movie. I can add it to my list of inspirations.

Sidekick rings, whats up holla!

2008-04-01T16:36:00.000-07:00

Have you heard the new Death Cab For Cutie song? If not, give it a listen here. Um.. I'm not sure what to say about it yet, except that it's long. Reallyyy long. As long as 3 normal Death Cab songs would usually be. Personally, I think lyrics are Gibbard's strong point, but they don't start until almost 5 minutes into the song. Yeah. Not to mention, I wish Ben Gibbard would play around with The Postal Service instead. But okay, whatevs, I am open to new things.

Wait. I take that back. I am open to new things EXCEPT for the new possibility that Weezer is naming their new album: Weezer, The Red Album. No. Just no. April Fool's Day joke maybe? (via Pitchfork)

Also via the ever reliable Pitchfork, new Wolf Parade album June 17! Yayayay. It's called Kissing The Beehive. I can't wait. Buy me a cool shirt?

For some more musical joy, watch the new Los Campesinos video. I lurveee them. (via Stereogum)

Songs To Listen To While Stalking & Lurking & Being A General Creep

2008-03-30T08:05:00.000-07:00

1. Spy On You- Deerhoof

2. Every Breath You Take- The Police

3. Creep- Radiohead

4. Close To Me- The Cure

5. Crash- Dave Matthews Band

6. Run For Your Life- The Beatles

7. Can't Get you Out of My Head- Kylie Minogue

8. One Way Or Another- Blondie

9. Emily Kane- Art Brut

& just for kicks & giggles...

10. Invisible- Clay Aiken!

The song titles will bring you to the lyrics so you can wonder who the object of Thom Yorke's or Clay Aiken's "love" was.

Crosses & crushes, crashes & hassles

2008-03-27T16:05:00.000-07:00

You know that 10 page paper I mentioned yesterday on music piracy? Well it just so happens the two main bands I used to prove my point were Radiohead & Nine Inch Nails & coincidentally, a visit to ONTD, had an article about those exact bands! It's basically about which is the trail blazer that has traveled the furthest in the music industry where record labels are obsolete. Read it here & vote; who do you think is the winner? (I personally voted for them each 5 times).

Oh & also while you're on Wired, check out this article on beating up emos that'll be sure to bring the lolz!

Cruelty makes its holes

2008-03-26T17:04:00.000-07:00

The Consolers Of The Lonely, the new Raconteur's album was released yesterday. What do you think? Oh & remember Jack White's huge fit with Icky Thump where a radio DJ aired the whole album before its release. Read the DJ's summary of what happened & how Jack was all OMGWTFBBQ!? & demanded apologies. Besides, it's been a known fact of his dislike for piracy. But whatevs Jack. It's no surprise that you & the rest of the Raconteurs didn't even want to announce the release of your new album. Read about it on NME & have a listen at the new album on their Myspizzace.

Oh & if you couldn't tell I am completely for the availability of free downloadable music. I wrote a 10 page research paper on it. Talk to me some time about it.

Songs That Fuel My Fetish for Iceland

2008-03-23T13:10:00.000-07:00

1. Hyperballad- Bjork

2. I Swim I Sing- Seabear

3. Sæglópur- Sigur Ros

4. Earth Intruders- Bjork

5. Hoppipolla- Sigur Ros

6. Arms- Seabear

7. Cat Piano- Seabear

8. Birthday- The Sugarcubes

9. I Know You Can Smile- Slowblow

10. Staralfur- Sigur Ros

Fall in love all over again

2008-03-20T17:08:00.000-07:00

For her 17th birthday I think it was, my friend Meg (who is my soulmate by the way) & I saw Weezer & Foo Fighters. It was basically like a religious experience for us, mainly & more so for her. So much so, that even while I was a hardcore Blue Album & Pinkerton fan, as the quality of Weezer albums downgraded, Meg still stayed firm in her belief of Rivers Cuomo. So this post is for her!

Lover In The Snow

I am not getting my hopes up for another Pinkerton, but hopefully his solo album will be better than Make Believe?

For the kid with the will to funk

2008-03-19T14:59:00.000-07:00

ATTN: Radiohead has announced a video-making contest! They're asking for an animated video of anyone of their songs off of In Rainbows & you don't even need to be video-tech savvy. But apparently they're not the only ones; Nine Inch Nails has also declared a similar, fan-based project. Get more info for Radiohead at Wired & Aniboom & visit NIN.com for the d/l on their video.

Also, speaking of NIN, they recently released a four disc set of just instrumentalist songs. I always enjoy the softer & soothing side of Trent Reznor, so Ghosts was a big thumbs up from me. The cover art for each of the 36 songs was pretty sweet too.

Okay so what is up with American Idol having the contestants do Beatles' covers TWO weeks in a row?????? I don't even watch the show except for last night when my mom screamed from the other room that she had found me a boyfriend & I ran to see David Archuleta. But yeah, once is more than enough, & twice is unforgivable. If the judges are going to be tough on the contestants, they shouldn't choose The Beatles to cover, because you can't imitate or improve on GENIUS. That was kind of like my issue with Across the Universe. Maybe nice in theory & Jim Sturgess is nice to look at, but the movie didn't cut it with me at all. It seemed like the producer/director tried to base the movie & each scene of a song, making for a very choppy plot line. But I'm getting off topic. While it was nice to hear Jason Castro sing in French, even Simon admitted that it was kind of a bad idea to do The Beatles for a second time. I agree, Simon, I agree.

Spoon, 11/9/07

2008-03-14T17:25:00.000-07:00

I know this was a while ago, but I thought it'd be worthwhile to post. This was probably the second most favorite concert i've ever attended (i've only been to about 8 concerts, Franz Ferdinand was my absolute favvvv!). Seeing Spoon was such a great experience. Britt Daniel has this quiet stage presence that's like created by his intense connection with the music, which in turn, surrounds him with an air of command that holds such a control over the crowd. I remember this concert so vividly because I remember thinking of how Britt Daniel looked like the definition of music. I mean like the way he moved & sounded & everything about him exuded "music." Also because my boyfriend of over a year had just broken up with me online (all kinds of classy) two days prior.

I remember thinking that boys really sucked & I was truly heartbroken. But I seriously forgot everything while hearing Britt Daniel sing... I mean I forrealz forgot my name & everything. After the show, my brother & I met him & I was absolutely speechless. Because the group I was with in the crowd was up front & danced & clapped rather enthusiastically, he signed my poster "Claps! Thanks! Britt Daniel." I am happy to say he single-handedly restored my faith and love for the male gender. This is the poster that currently resides above my bed.

Come on skinny love

2008-03-14T17:05:00.000-07:00

If you too, wish you were in Austin, Texas enjoying SXSW, you can pretend to be a part of it at Stereogum (not really diggin' the new layout to be quite honest) & Pitchfork. They have lurvelyyy updates about everything that those who are less fortunate, are missing out on.

Discovery of the day!

My AP US history teacher from last year likes good music! Why is this such a discovery? Well because he isn't the type you'd really pin down as indie lover & also because you don't meet many people down where I live that likes something other than mindless provocative rap, Dragonforce, or country shiz. So to find out my former teacher is a big fan of The Shins?? I guess I was blinded by the workload he assigned. But now that I don't have him anymore, I can burn him those Cure albums he wanted without any bitterness.

Wasted days you've come to pass

2008-03-13T15:51:00.000-07:00

Current obsessions: James McAvoy & Vampire Weekend!

I love James McAvoy's Scottish accent and I love Vampire Weekend's integration of strings into their songs; being a violin playuhh, it's nice to see strings being associated with something other than stuffy old Mozart or d00ds in wigs. Just sayin'. Anyways, no dissss to Mozart, but Vampire Weekend is the freshest shiz i've heard in a while. Check out this article about them by Andy Greenwald (whom I also admire)! Plus, yesterday I skipped school & took some time to learn the beginning of M79! I can honestly say I haven't felt this way about a band since The Strokes became my favorite band with Is This It or captivated me so much.

Postscript: Heads Up!~

May 5 & 6 (if i'm lucky)- RADIOHEAD

June 7- Vampire Weekend

June 11- The Cure

Just Drums

2008-03-11T22:12:00.000-07:00

If you can't read what it says, it says 739 NOTE STREAK. True story.

Songs That Prove That Classical String Instruments Can Be Cool

2008-03-09T21:54:00.000-07:00

1. M79- Vampire Weekend

2. The Opposite of Hallelujah- Jens Lekman

3. Fake Palindromes- Andrew Bird

4. Eleanor Rigby- The Beatles

5. Four Winds- Bright Eyes

6. We Both Go Down Together- The Decemberists

7. The Magic Position- Patrick Wolf

8. Pull Shapes- The Pipettes

9. On The Radio- Regina Spektor

10. Hummingbird- Wilco