Surfer Blood - "Swim (To Reach The End)

Continuing with my recent surf theme, the name of this band should strike a chord with my brother Chip. During his last PA rotation in San Diego, Chip's was enjoying a nice break on the left coast. However, after a fall, his surfboard decided it was quitting time and came out of nowhere to split open his head. Needless to say with head wounds, there was much blood.

The band, Surfer Blood, is actually from the right coast, West Palm Beach, Florida. Their first proper album, Astro Coast, is due out on January 19th. They take that 80's sound, which is still gaining momentum amongst indie band these days, and drench it with a fair amount of reverb. This cut is instantly gratifying and I anticipate hearing more from Surfer Blood.

Artist: Surfer Blood
Label: Kanine Records
Style: Surf Rock
Fact: "None of us surf"




Song: Swim(To Reach The End)

Ola Podrida - "The Closest We Will Ever Be"

Been slacking again lately my people...my sorryness (like my new word?) to you. In an effort to bring you more posts and hence, more great music, I am going to trim down my posts a bit. Will post the music and let it speak for itself for the most part.

With that being said, here is a song by lo-fi songwriter, Ola Podrida. The more I listen to him, the more I want to hear. His second LP, Belly of the Lion, came out on November 10th.


Artist: Ola Podrida
Label: Western Vinyl
Style:  Lo-Fi Songwriter
Fact:   Real Name is David Wingo and he is actually a film composer.



Song:  The Closest We Will Ever Be

The Drums - "Let's Go Surfing"

Mentioned this highly addictive song by The Drums to my brother last night. Since he and my other brother were just catching waves in sunny San Diego, thought it was a perfect time to post it. Oh yeah, did I mention I am jealous that they were surfing without me! At any rate, this song has been catching a good amount of buzz on the blogs. I guess I will add to it.

The Drums are actually from the right coast (brooklyn, NY) and have an excellent EP out titled "Summertime!". Not sure I like saying this but this song, the chorus in particular, reminds me a bit of early Weezer. I think a swell is coming this weekend....Let's Go Surfing!


The Drums - Let's Go Surfing

Video: Real Estate - "Basement" (Live @ CMJ)

First let me apologize for the lack of any posts in the last few weeks. Lots going on right now, both good and bad. With that being said, let's get back to the music!

Those of you that know me, also know that I have been hyping New Jersey band Real Estate quite a bit. Real Estate create a laid back lo-fi surf sound that really grabs and holds. Their debut album is out on November 17th and is one of my most highly anticipated releases for this year. I have heard a bunch of their songs and have yet to run into one I didn't like. Along with about 1200 other bands, Real Estate were recently in New York for the CMJ Music Marathon & Film Festival. Here is an excellent video of one of their performances. Before you watch this, realize that this video was created by Ray Concepcion, who has a unique approach. Quite enjoyable I must say. Oh yeah, gotta love the PBR towards the beginning in the background.



The Loneliness of the Long Distance Runner: Real Estate [Part 3 of 14] from Ray Concepcioñ on Vimeo.

Local Natives - "Wide Eyes"

The more I hear from California band, Local Natives, the more impressed I am. As you know, I recently touted them and their excellent song "Sun Hands". Their unique brand of indie folk is quite infectious. Here track number one, "Wide Eyes", from their upcoming album Gorilla Manor. Check out the percussion on this song, too cool. Cannot wait to hear the rest of the album which hits on 11/2. Keep a close eye on these guys!

Local Natives - Wide Eyes

Miles Benjamin Anthony Robinson - "The Sound"

If you want a guy to root for, why not Miles Benjamin Anthony Robinson. This New York (by way of Portland and Eugene, Oregon) singer-songwriter tried his hand at several bands that ultimately failed and with only addiction left at his side, wound up homeless on Coney Island. But for this talented artist, thankfully the story doesn't end there. In 2006, with the help of close friends from bands TV On The Radio and Grizzly Bear, Miles began recording his self-titled debut in his apartment. The album was released to very strong reviews in 2008.

Here is a fitting description of his first album from Last.fm:

The album begins with the demented campfire sing-a-long, “Buriedfed” - a dirge disguised as a rave-up it sets the pace for an album filled with unrepentant confessions and takes the listener through a sardonic narrative, detailing loss, excess, and blurred memories.

Here in the present, Miles Benjamin Anthony Robinson is set to release his follow-up album, Summer of Fear, on Oct. 20th. Amazingly, he is already hinting that he will begin recording album number three very soon.

Here are two songs to check out: "The Sound" from upcoming album Summer of Fear and "Woodfriend" from his self-titled release.

Miles Benjamin Anthony Robinson - The Sound

Miles Benjamin Anthony Robinson - Woodfriend

Kurt Vile - "Blackberry Song"

If you have read my previous posts, you will know that I really like Philly native Kurt Vile and his brand of lo-fi goodness. His newest album "Childish Prodigy", and first with Matador Records, will be out in one week. To get you ready for what should be one of the best records of 2009, here is another cut from that album.

Kurt Vile - Blackberry Song

Even better, you can stream "Childish Prodigy" in its entirety HERE.

Washed Out - "Feel It All Around"

At this point, chill-wave band Washed Out has been blogged more times than Barry has been asked about health care. Nonetheless, I will add my post to the mix. Washed Out is actually the recording moniker for Georgia native Ernest Greene, another bedroom composer. Listening to Washed Out literally makes you feel like you are right in the middle of the 80's. Their song "Feel It All Around" conjured up feelings of being about 11 years old, sitting on the enclosed front porch watching "Miami Vice" on my parent's enormous console TV. It must be those drums and synthesizers. Regardless of the feelings, it is one of the best songs of 2009.




Washed Out - "Feel It All Around"

Chase This Track: Real Estate - "Beach Comber"

Today is my wonderful wife's birthday (happy bday sweetie!), so I guess it is appropriate that this post is about the band Real Estate since she works in that field. Real Estate is not easy and my wife is amazing in the way she balances a tough job with the boundless duties of a mom. Besides all that, she is an incredible wife. Alright, if my sappiness hasn't already 'chased' you away, we'll move back into the music.

As for this Real Estate, they create music that comes across as effortless and unforced. Real Estate is another perfecter of the fuzzy lo-fi folk (been an unbelievable year for this style) that is taking up more and more real estate space on my Ipod. Real Estate is signed to the excellent Woodist label (Ganglians, Woods) and this immensely talented act releases their debut LP on Nov. 17. Their song "Beach Comber" is outstanding and aptly whets the appetite for the full-length album. Here's hoping my wife enjoys the song too!


Real Estate - Beach Comber

New Video: Banjo or Freakout - "I Feel Like Going Home"

Banjo or Freakout is a one-man bedroom band from London that has just recently caught my attention. Banjo or Freakout (aka Alessio) create amazing psychedelic lo-fi music that simultaneously gives you a sense of unease and calm.

He just released the video for his Yo La Tengo cover of "I Feel Like Going Home." Here it is:



Also, check out his song "Upside Down":

Banjo or Freakout - Upside Down

Chase This Track: Local Natives - "Sun Hands"

Silverlake, California's Local Natives are a band I recommend you keep a close eye on in the coming months. I recently heard their song, "Sun Hands", and was instantly enamored. They have this tight 3-piece harmony (read: Fleet Floxes) thing going on. Apparently Local Natives have already completed the recording of their debut album. Yet to this point, the album is unnamed and they remain unsigned. With songs like "Sun Hands", I would expect some smart indie label to snatch Local Natives up very soon.


Local Natives - Sun Hands

Welcome To: Chasing The Sirens

Welcome All My Fellow Indie Music Lovers!!!

As you should have now noticed, I have recently changed the name of this blog to Chasing The Sirens. In an effort to relieve any confusion, I wanted to let you know why I have changed the name of this blog and the inspiration behind 'Chasing The Sirens'.

As early as I can remember, one of my favorite sounds was that of the siren. It sparked in me a want to know what the sirens were for and find the action. I have very distinct memories as a boy of hearing sirens in the distance grow in intensity, multiply, and move ever closer. Ask my mom about this and she will tell you the same stories....as she was just like me! With my Radio Shack plug-in scanner by my side, I would listen intently for all the details of this emergency call.

But it did not stop there. In my mind, the logical next step was to find the action or more accurately find the fire. Many times my mom and dad and I (and my brothers) would jump in the car and chase the sirens. I remember driving all over our surrounding neighborhoods doing just this. One expression often heard in these moments was "I think I smell smoke!" Although many times we came up empty in our search, I have vivid recollections of chasing the sirens and finding fires. On one particular New Year's Eve, our neighbor's house caught on fire when a log rolled off their basement fireplace. Not even the shin-high snow nor the sub-zero temperatures could keep us from chasing across the big field that separated the houses. We would not be denied all the particulars of this unexpected incident.

So now, as a 30-something adult, I still love 'chasing the sirens'. In many ways, my love for music (specifically indie music) leads to similar encounters. A great song is heard and immediately the chase is on to know more about the song, the band, the style, etc. I don't stop until I 'Find the Fire'. I want and need to know all the particulars of great music that is so unknown to the majority of people.

So there it is...Chasing The Sirens.

My hope is that after visiting my blog you will be onto your own 'chase' after hearing some really great and under-appreciated music.

Thanks for stopping by!

Derek

Du's Cut of the Day - Sunnybrook - "Waving Hands"

Continuing with music that kindles nostalgia and longing, here is a track from Denton, Texas artist Sunnybrook. Listen to the song and tell me if it doesn't quickly hook you with its acoustic guitar picking, layered harmonies, and those handclaps. Sunnybrook's debut album on Lefse Records will be out in the Spring of 2010. Sunnybrook's sound has been compared to...Any guesses???

Sunnybrook - Waving Hands

Du's Cut of the Day : Revolvers - "Apocalypse Surfin'

Going to post one newly discovered song everyday. These will be cuts that are at the top of my rotation. I won't say much on these songs but will hope to hear your opinions, good or bad.

Unsigned Toronto band, Revolvers, craft a lo-fi Beach Boys sound on this song, "Apocalypse Surfin'. As another summer winds down, savor the warm (or maybe really hot) days with this gem.











Revolvers - Apocalypse Surfin'

Weinland - "Sunken Eyes"

When your lead singer has a voice that gets comparisons to Neil Young and a band chemistry that is undeniable, chances are you will get some recognition. Such is the case for Portland, Oregon indie outfit Weinland. Led by John Adam Weinland Shearer, Weinland chart their course through the americana, folk, and alt-country musical landscapes. If you can imagine Neil Young doing his best Sam Beam (Iron & Wine) imitation, you are closely approaching the sound of Weinland. La Lementor was Weinland's first LP and was released in early 2008 to outstanding reviews. Their second album, Breaks In The Sun, is out now and is also very highly recommended.

Ironically, my brother Chip and his wife Audrey just had the opportunity to catch Weinland live in downtown Portland at the Muddy Boot Organic Festival. Sounds like fun and something my wife would have really enjoyed too (keyword: organic)! Maybe Chip and/or Audrey will let us know more about Weinland's show at the festival.

Here is the exceptional first track from Breaks In The Sun:

Weinland - Sunken Eyes

Finally, here is a video of them playing "God Here I Come" live from their album La Lamentor. I chose this video because it displays both the band chemistry and the humorous side of lead singer Adam Shearer.

Atlas Sound - "Walkabout (w/ Noah Lennox)"

One of my favorite summer anthems is easily Atlas Sound's song "Walkabout" off the upcoming (Oct. 20) album, Logos. Atlas Sound is the solo project of Deerhunter frontman Bradford Cox. His first album under the Atlas Sound moniker, Let The Blind Lead Those Who Can See But Cannot Feel, got excellent reviews. The sound can best be described as very distinct songs with hazy atmospherics. However, the new song "Walkabout", which happens to feature Panda Bear's Noah Lennox, has a poppier feel to it. The song has a definitive Panda Bear sound to it with the Beach Boys like harmonies. Further, the high-pitched organ loop adds much to the song and has a way of bringing you back for more and more. We will soon find out if the rest of Logos will be of a similar sound....I certainly hope so!

In the meantime, take a listen to "Walkabout":




Atlas Sound - Walkabout (w/ Noah Lennox)

A.A. Bondy - "I Can See The Pines Are Dancing"

Continuing in the singer-songwriter vain, another artist that is frequenting my speakers of late is A.A. Bondy. On his second album, When The Devil's Loose (released on 9/1), A.A. Bondy continues the rootsy/alt country style of his first album, American Hearts. Although Bondy, in my opinion, is reminiscent of an early Ryan Adams, his songs tend to be slow, or more accurately, unhurried and deliberate. This is not a negative as the words and emotions in each song are fleshed out and clearly evident. I'm fairly certain if you give a listen, you won't be disappointed.



Here is one of the faster songs from When The Devil's Loose:

A.A. Bondy - I Can See The Pines Are Dancing


Also, an excellent cut from his first album, American Hearts:

A.A. Bondy - There's A Reason

 

Langhorne Slim

Do you all know Langhorne Slim? I am wondering how I could just now be discovering this guy. Just heard his new song (from his upcoming and newest album), "I Love You, But Goodbye". This folk singer was born as Sean Scolnick and is originally from Langhorne, Pennsylvania (near Trenton, NJ). Pretty sweet name and one that sticks. It reminds me of another guy they called 'Slim' who I got to see play with Portland's Pagan Jug Band. Anyway, Langhorne's songs sunk their teeth into me from the beginning. He reminds me of a mix of Josh Ritter and a little-know artist from Montana named Aaron Parrett. Great songwriting with a nice blend of sounds and instruments.

Langhorne Slims newest album, Be Set Free, releases on September 29th.

Here is the video for his newest song, "I Love You, But Goodbye":



Here is one of the excellent songs from his 2008 self-titled album, "Restless":


Langhorne Slim - Restless

Obscurity Observed: Henry Pedro

Today I am starting a new section called Obscurity Observed. My aim in these posts is to reveal songs/artists long since forgotten, 1000's of miles off the radar, or just entirely under-appreciated. One of my thrills in regards to music, is hearing old and yet timeless stuff that is atypical of your run-of-the-mill classic genres.

With that said, I will break in this section with a song from Henry Pedro. I first heard this song on xm radio and it immediately stood out. After searching and searching, I do not know anything about this guy they call Henry. I do know this...Almost immediately, the song sparks memories of finding some unknown artist's record in my parent's cabinet, dropping it onto that old RCA record player, and hearing the scratches as the needle cuts its way across songs that will forever be etched in my mind.



So here is the song, "Midnight Sun" by Henry Pedro:

Henry Pedro - Midnight Sun

J. Tillman - "Year In The Kingdom"

One of the better singer-songwriters I have discovered in the last year, J. Tillman, also happens to be the drummer for indie favorite, Fleet Foxes. Yet in listening to his solo albums, it becomes quickly evident that songwriter he was first. J. Tillman returns with his fifth album, Year In The Kingdom, due for release in September. In comparing the few new songs I have heard to his last album, Vacilando Territory Blues, the sound has improved and his excellent voice stands out all the more. J. Tillman's music is most appreciated in a quiet setting coming through a nice pair of speakers or headphones. This guy has some talent and will most likely garner some much deserved attention for Year In The Kindgom.

Take a listen to the title track, "Year In The Kingdom":


J. Tillman - Year In The Kingdom

Family Portrait - "Mega Secret"

In an effort to find the more obscure in the indie world, I stumbled across another nice lo-fi group. The band is Family Portrait and I admit I don't know very much about them at this point. After scouring the internet, I know that they hail from our Nation's capital and Ridgewood, New Jersey. The Family Portrait frontman is Evan Brody. They are part of the Underwater Peoples Records label, also out of D.C. On their Myspace page, the band describes their sound as: "an underwater sound vessel of rhythm, blues, and community." That is the extent of what I know about Family Portrait. Don't think they have a proper LP at this point...but will be paying close attention for one in the future.

The song is called "Mega Secrets". You can listen to it here:

Family Portrait - Mega Secrets

The Cave Singers - "At The Cut"

It has been over 5 weeks since my last post so it is high time we get back to some good indie music!

















 


Here is a brand new song from Seattle indie folk band, The Cave Singers. The song is "At The Cut" and is from there newest album, Welcome Joy, which was released on August 18th. Often described as a type of neo-folk, The Cave Singers' songs build upon themselves: simple guitar work and drums combined with unique and often intensifying rhythms make for a very interesting listen. It is certainly a group to check out if you are not familiar. I have my brother to thank for introducing me to The Cave Singers.


So take a listen and enjoy!


The Cave Singer - At The Cut

Kurt Vile - "Overnite Religion"

2009 has been yet another impressive year for the lo-fi indie scene. Artists such as Ganglians, Woods, Bill Callahan, and Wavves (to name a few) have released outstanding records this year. Unfortunately, even within the indie blogging universe, many of these bands remain under-appreciated. Nonetheless, the lo-fi sound has been in constant rotation at Du Indie Music with yet another name now included.

Lo-fi songwriter Kurt Vile-and lead guitarist for indie band The War on Drugs-has moved into the Du Indie Music radar with a new song from his upcoming 3rd album, and first with Matador Records, Childish Prodigy. Vile's first two albums Constant Hitmaker and God Is Saying This To You?, released in March of 2008 and March of 2009 respectively, were well-received by indie critics.

Here is how one blogger describes his music:

Past works have been mostly characterized by psych-pop filtered through hushed bedroom-folk atmospherics, but the man isn’t afraid to occasionally flex his ability to write stone cold anthems.

Yet Kurt Vile's music has remained relatively unknown. With his recent signing to top-notch indie label Matador (The Caves Singers, Pavement, Shearwater), and an expected debut release in the Fall, one would likely think that his music will garner more attention and interest. For the sake of great music, let's hope so!

Here are two Kurt Vile songs. The first track is "Overnite Religion", just released and from his upcoming album Childish Prodigy. The second is from his 2008 album Constant Hitmaker and is titled "Freeway".


Kurt Vile - Overnite Religion

Kurt Vile - Freeway

Ganglians - Monster Head Room

About two weeks ago, I posted about Ganglians and my growing intrigue after hearing one of their songs, "Valiant Brave" from their debut LP, Monster Head Room. I have now had the opportunity to listen to the entire album several times (8 and counting). As you can see on my sidebar "Du's Top 25 of 2009", Ganglians' Monster Head Room has risen to the top. This album is full of some fantastic harmonies and this is the foremost reason for its climb up my list. I am a really big sucker for the Beach Boys-like harmonies that have been popularized by some indie artists (Animal Collective, Grizzly Bear, Panda Bear, etc.). In fact, for this reason, Panda Bear's 2007 album, Person Pitch, was my number one album of that year. Yet Ganglians' album is in a different vein than these quite popular indie bands. Monster Head Room combines these rich harmonies with a lo-fi pyschedelia approach resulting in a a unique albeit gorgeous album. An album that reveals itself to you with continued listens, Ganglians' Monster Head Room is an album that should not be ignored. I don't see it moving off its perch at #1 on my 2009 list.

Here are two more of my favorite songs from Monster Head Room.

Ganglians - Lost Words

Ganglians - Cryin' Smoke

New Blitzen Trapper Video - "Black River Killer"

Portland band Blitzen Trapper's new video for song "Black River Killer" is an impressive one to say the least. Full of nifty cinematic tricks, the video augments quite well the storytelling nature of this song.

Meanwhile, Blitzen Trapper continue to work on their follow-up to 2008's Furr.

Bibio - "Ambivalence Avenue"

When I have the fortune of chancing upon very innovative artists such as Bibio, I am thankful for the indie music blogging world in which we live.

Bibio is the recording moniker for England music producer, Stephen Wilkinson. Bibio's fifth album, Ambivalence Avenue, was released on June 22nd. So very idiosyncratic and diverse, Bibio's sound defies classification. The best way to describe it from what I have heard is a style that slants towards a fusion of electronic and folk music. Although you can find Bibio listed under the genre folktronica in Wikipedia, I'm not a huge fan of classifying, er, pigeon-holing artists. Regardless of what you call it, the music being generated by Bibio is impressive. One of Bibio's central influences is experimental electronica band, Boards of Canada. If you are familiar with Boards of Canada, you will certainly hear similarities in the sounds Bibio incorporates. But further than just this resemblance, Bibio has developed a distinct style by combining field recordings, found sounds, electronically tailored guitar melodies, and monotonous synthesizer sounds. He also does sing and it fits wonderfully with the nature of this album.

Bibio's love for sound and noise led him to the study of Sonic Arts at the University of London and ultimately to an unparalleled way of shaping music. Do not miss Ambivalence Avenue!

The first song on the album is title track, "Ambivalence Avenue". Upon first listen I was immediately engaged, and the momentum carries through the rest of this exceptional album.


Bibio - Ambivalence Avenue

Sufjan Stevens - "Star-Spangled Banner"

Happy 4th of July To All!!!












Sufjan Stevens - Star-Spangled Banner

Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros

Driving to work this morning, I heard a sweet song on sirixmu by Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros called "Janglin". This sparked a memory of a March NPR podcast in which they reviewed the days spent at SXSW festival in Austin, Texas. It was during this podcast that they significantly hyped Edward Sharpe & Magnetic Zeros. So I quickly typed (not while driving) the band's name into The Hype Machine and came across an even better song called "40 Day Dream". To this point, I don't know a lot about them except that they are led by IMA Robot's Alex Ebert. What I do know is that the music is seriously infectious. Reminds me of a mix of Gnarls Barkley and Arcade Fire. Can't stop listening to these songs!

Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros have an EP out now entitled Here Comes. Their full length debut, Up From Below, comes out on July 14th.

Here are the two great songs I mentioned above.


Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros - 40 Day Dream

Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros - Janglin

Horse Feathers - "Working Poor"

Horse Feathers, yet another outstanding band from Portland (go figure!), released their second LP House With No Home late last year. As was the case on their debut album Words Are Dead, Horse Feathers excel at the acoustic folk thing. Essentially a string band in their makeup, they "pluck instead of pick and never fiddle, and percussion is limited to the arrhythmic clatter of pots and pans" as one review so aptly described. I've often found myself wishing they would just let loose with some good old Appalachian bluegrass. Yet this plucking delineates their style and distinguishes their music from other acts. As is the case with most music with staying power, the songs of Horse Feathers are an acquired taste and their songs sink in gradually. Horse Feathers has completely sunk in for me and I find myself continually going back for more.

This video is the live version of "Working Poor" and "Curs In The Weeds" from House With No Home.

The Low Anthem - "To Ohio"

On The Low Anthem's third album, Oh My God, Charlie Darwin, this Providence, Rhode Island outfit cover an impressive gamut in terms of both style and instruments. The music is a broad brush of Americana, with harmonious folk songs reminiscent of Fleet Foxes ('To Ohio', 'Charlie Darwin') and Appalachian style stomp songs you might have heard during the Civil War era ('Home I'll Never Be', 'The Horizon Is A Beltway'). Whether the songs are trickling gently or erupting there is no shortage of instruments employed. From banjo to mandolin, tongue drum to Tibetan singing bowl, every device enriches the listening experience. Despite the diversity of the songs, Oh My God, Charlie Darwin has a beautiful flow that is more fully realized with each repeated listen. On Oh My God, Charlie Darwin, this trio that makes up The Low Anthem continues to lay the groundwork for what I expect will be an exceptional future.


















Here is one of the best tracks on the album 'To Ohio':

The Low Anthem - To Ohio

The Gaslight Anthem - 'The '59 Sound'

The Gaslight Anthem is a band that is most certainly on the rise. They hail from New Jersey which also happens to be home to one of rock's greatest icons, Bruce Springsteen. However, it appears that this is more than just a fun fact when the band describes their sound as "Bruce Springsteen singing for a Cure cover band, with a tinge more aggression." As someone who acquired a deep passion for The Boss while growing up, I can certainly hear his influence in the music of The Gaslight Anthem. I also hear a touch of Arcade Fire in their sound. Considering The Gaslight Anthem to be a mix of these distinct but brilliant artists is no knock in my book. I guess the only question that remains is will my 2 year old son find this song as danceable as he did 'House of Mirrors' by Doves.

Their second album, The '59 Sound, released in August of last year.

Here is the video for the title track. The mp3 version of the song is directly below the video.





The Gaslight Anthem - The '59 Sound

New Doves - "Kingdom of Rust"

One of the most under-appreciated bands to come out of the UK are England's own Doves. They steadliy follow in the wake being left by fellow UK bands Radiohead and Coldplay. Yet what separates them is their distinct blend of atmospheric sounds and melody. The environment their music creates puts you in almost a magical place.

It seems like another lifetime when I initially heard their first album, Lost Souls, in 2000. However, with their exceptional and incomparable sound, I clearly recall being convinced that they would be a band to watch as the years marched on.

Nine years and three albums later Doves have added another outstanding LP to their repertoire in Kingdom of Rust. I had been passing up this album for a couple months and my avoidance is now proving to be one of ignorance. The more I listen to Kingdom of Rust, the higher it ascends my 'Best of 2009' list.

Here are two excellent songs from Kingdom of Rust:

Doves - Kingdom of Rust

Doves - House of Mirrors

Ears, Just Hear: The National - "So Far Around The Bend"

The National - So Far Around The Bend

Gregory Alan Isakov - "That Moon Song"

The other night, I was laying in bed and listening to Gregory Alan Isakov's amazing new album This Empty Northern Hemisphere. It is an album that is bursting with life and detail. It provides the sensation that each pick of the banjo and each strum of the guitar is being played right there with you. On an emotional level, each of the songs and lyrics tug on your heartstrings in a distinctive way. You will understand when you listen. If you are going to pick up one album in the next couple months, get this one and then spread the word! To this day, I still cannot figure out how and why Gregory Alan Isakov is so far under the radar.




















Here is a great quote from a review of This Empty Northern Hemisphere on About.com: Folk music:
It's a beautiful record. It's thickly orchestrated, warm, and full of so much sadness and longing. It's the kind of sadness and longing that leaves you with nothing other than the desire to lie on your back and watch the stars emerge behind passing clouds.

One of the best songs from This Empty Northern Hemisphere is "That Moon Song." I could not find it in mp3 format. Instead, this is from YouTube with just a picture of the album art. Turn it up loud and take in the sounds of one incredible songwriter.

Questions Inspired By Song (Jason Lytle)

What if you were in a deep hole? What if you could hear the world moving around you but the world could not hear you? What if you sat in this hole and didn’t even try to get out? What if the birds could see you sitting in this hole? If these birds could talk, what would they say to you as you remained in this hole?

Listen to this new song by Jason Lytle (former lead singer of Grandaddy).


Jason Lytle - Birds Encouraged Him



















What walls have been built around yourself? Have these walls made you blind and deaf to certain truths about life? Are you alone strong enough and brave enough to scale these walls? What fears and doubts keep you inside this 'man hole'? What glimpses of yourself are you terrified to reveal? What would happen if you finally unveiled it all?

Who is going to raze these walls for you?

New Magnolia Electric Co. - "Josephine"

Somewhere along my musical journey, my Neil Young phase went from cool to perhaps cliche'. When Pearl Jam and Nirvana reigned during my college years, listening to Neil Young was another way to showcase to your friends a prowess of all things grunge. However, the coolness faded and his music became part of your typical playlist that can be heard on any Classic Rock radio station. Listening to Neil Young will never have the same impact on my ears as it did in the early 90's.

I mention this because Jason Molina, singer-songwriter and frontman of Magnolia Electric Co, has a voice and musical style which is eerily similar to Neil Young's. Before you assume that this would negatively affect my thoughts of Jason Molina, realize that it works in the exact opposite way. Jason Molina has always remained a very unique and ever-evolving artist. Yet, like with any good artist, the sound is always clearly identifiable as Jason Molina. Whether recording as Magnolia Electric Co. or formerly as Songs:Ohia, the fact remains that Jason Molina is a prolific songwriter who has a first-rate ability to blend the styles of lo-fi, folk, and alt-country. It is music that continues to provide the listener with added details on each successive listen. In 15 years, I foresee my ears still craving Jason Molina's music.















The new Magnolia Electric Co. album comes out in July and is titled Josephine. Here is the title track.


Magnolia Electric Co. - Josephine

The Wooden Birds

So I am driving home the other day and I hear this song on SiriXM U. The acoustic rhythm is laid back and the singer has a very subtle but cool voice. The steady beat is in no hurry to get anywhere and I don't mind. Part of the chorus is one of those "oh ohhh-oh ohhhh ohhhhhh" that always seem to get me. Right away this song has me hooked. When it was over I was immediately petitioning my brain to remember the band name. OK, I admit, this happens often for me with new music. But with this song my curiosity was very much rapt and I wanted some more. Here is the more:

The band is The Wooden Birds. They are led by singer-songwriter and former frontman of American Analog Set (aka AmAnSet), Andrew Kenny. The song is "Sugar" from their debut album, Magnolia. From The Wooden Birds website, "The arrangements on Magnolia are more vocal and percussion heavy than anything he's done before." This album is a keeper!





















The Wooden Birds - Sugar

New Wilco - "Bull Black Nova"

Wilco. Wilco. Wilco. No, I am not singing the chorus to "Wilco (The Song)". Yes, Wilco is back with a new album, Wilco (The Album) due to release on June 30th and due to leak on...Well, maybe you should just find out for yourself.














Suffice it to say, Wilco's new song, "Bull Black Nova" is outstanding. Let's hope this points to Jeff Tweedy and the crew returning to the Wilco we (I) grew to love (e.g. Yankee Hotel Foxtrot, A Ghost Is Born) rather than the somewhat predictable Wilco that all the 'critics' loved (Sky Blue Sky). Time will tell. Or perhaps, my ears are already letting me know.

For the time being, listen to Wilco's "Bull Black Nova" and let your ears provide you with your first clue.

I almost forgot this important tidbit! You can stream Wilco (The Album) for free at Wilcoworld.net.

Share your thoughts if you feel so led. Now.


Wilco - Bull Black Nova

New Grizzly Bear - "Two Weeks"

One band that continues to impress me more and more is Grizzly Bear. Their last album, Yellow House was an amazing listen and continues to reward to this day. For this reason, I am really anticipating the release of their third full-length album Vectamist.




















The atmospheric nature of the songs is truly something to behold. I would highly recommend a nice set of cans (aka headphones) when listening to Grizzly Bear. Your ears will certainly thank you. Grizzly Bear's genre has been classified as many including lo-fi, anti-folk, and freak-folk. After now hearing three of the songs from Veckatimest, I anticipate this to be high on my list come the end of 2009. Oh by the way, one of the members of Grizzly Bear, Daniel Rossen (songwriting/guitar), is also a member of the excellent band Department of Eagles.

Veckatimest will be released on May 26th. Here is track number two from Veckatimest, "Two Weeks".

Grizzly Bear - Two Weeks

Woods - Rain on (Live Video)

Fresh out of hiatus, I am back with a strong recommendation for the band Woods. Woods is a lo-fi group I just discovered. I cannot say enough about their new album Songs of Shame...It is that good. I anticipate it will be in my top 3 of 2009.

The album really ingrains itself to you and you will find yourself wanting to hear it over and over again. I cannot sum up Woods sounds any better than this quote from Pitchfork: Woods created a distinctive blend of spooky campfire folk, lo-fi rock, homemade tape collages, and other noisy interludes, all anchored by deceptively sturdy melodies.

Seriously now, I am trying to figure out how I am now just hearing about these guys. Their two other albums are amazing too. Well have a listen. Also, check out the new lala player on the right side of the blog. In there you can check out some more songs by Woods. Lots of lo-fi ear candy!

Here is their song 'Rain On', performed live:

New Video - Bonnie "Prince" Billy: I Am Goodbye

Singer-Songwriter Bonnie "Prince" Billy (aka Will Oldham) will release his latest album, Beware on March 17th. I am a big fan of his music and would highly recommend giving a listen. Here is the video for his new song "I Am Goodbye".

New U2 Video - "Breathe"

Fresh off U2's performance last night on Letterman (the first of five nights in a row on Letterman), here is the video for "Breathe". U2 Live = Amazing!

U2's new album, No Line On The Horizon was released today.

J. Tillman Video - "Firstborn"

J. Tillman (aka Josh Tillman) is a Seattle-based artist who is also the drummer for Fleet Foxes. This is the video for J. Tillman's song "Firstborn", which is on his 2008 album Vacilando Territory Blues. Very cool, laid-back sound. I will have to soon check out the rest of J. Tillman's album!

Oh by the way...You'll notice that J. Tillman's Fleet Foxes band mates were part of the effort on "Firstborn".

New Song By Great Lake Swimmers

One of my most anticipated album releases of 2009 is Lost Channels by Great Lake Swimmers. Lost Channels is the 4th full-length record from this Canadian band who craft melodic folk rock songs. I cannot recommend them enough...just superb music all around. A few weeks ago, I posted one of their new songs from the upcoming album. Here is another song from Lost Channels called "Everything Is Moving So Fast".


















Lost Channels will be released on March 31st.

Great Lake Swimmers - Everything Is Moving So Fast

Bon Iver Covers Feist

If you are a fan of Bon Iver, then you will enjoy this. During a recent interview in Austrialia, Justin Veron (aka Bon Iver) covered Feist's song 'The Park'.



















Bon Iver - The Park (Feist cover)

Coldplay - Love 'em or Hate 'em?

Love them or hate them, you have to admit that Coldplay know exactly who they are: An anthemic, stadium-filling, UK rock band. Last night's Grammy's found them pulling in the Best Rock Album award for Viva La Vida or Death and All His Friends. The intriguing thing about Coldplay is that despite all their success and notoriety, they are still quite unpretentious. Disagree? Watch their recent interview on 60 Minutes. During that interview, Chris Martin joked:

"And the other reason why we do well is because U2 is still on holiday. So…they're back in March. So, you know, as soon as they come back, we drop down the ladder a bit,"..."So, we're in our last week of substitute teaching."

You could argue that this modesty is part of their intention to 'Always keep mystery.' (rule #6 on a list of rules in their studio). However, I believe it to be the genuineness of four middle class college friends who started a band and continue to share a love of music.

Here is Coldplay's newest video for the song 'Life In Technicolor ii' which is from the Prospekt's March EP.

The Welcome Wagon

The Welcome Wagon's debut album Welcome To The Welcome Wagon is one of my favorites of 2009. If you are a fan of Sufjan Stevens then you should definitely check out The Welcome Wagon (Sufjan produced and helped arrange the album). I love the lyrics and the sincerity of this album.

The Welcome Wagon is comprised of a pastor, the Reverend Thomas Vito Aiuto, and his wife Monique. Here is how their label Asthmatic Kitty Records describes the music of The Welcome Wagon:


"They execute a genre of gospel music that is refreshingly plain. Their hymns are modest and melodic takes on a vast history of sacred song traditions, delivered with the simple desire to know their Maker—and to know each other—more intimately."


Here is the first single from their excellent album:


The Welcome Wagon - Sold! To The Nice Rich Man

'Nothing To Worry About' Video - Peter Bjorn and John

Peter Bjorn and John's newest album Living Thing comes out on March 31st. The first single on the album is 'Nothing To Worry About'. The song has been getting a good amount of playtime on SiriXM U. This song is very unique and I particularly like the sounds of the drums. It also features backup vocals by a bunch of kids. Very cool! Here is the just released video for 'Nothing To Worry About'. The video, while amusing, fits quite nicely as the song does give you the feel of being in a different culture.



Peter Bjorn and John "Nothing To Worry About"

New The Decemberists - 'The Rake's Song'

By far, one of my favorite bands is the The Decemberists. Fronted by Colin Meloy, The Decemberists attack songs from a pure storytelling approach, often calling upon historical events. I first heard Colin Meloy as a member of his first band Tarkio. Tarkio was an Alternative Country band formed while Meloy attended the University of Montana in Missoula. I also had the distinct fortune of seeing Tarkio live at a local bar in Missoula. I remember thinking that this guy was going to go on to even bigger and better things in the music world.


The Decemberists 5th album, The Hazards of Love, will be released on March 24th. Here you can listen to the first single from the album, 'The Rake's Song'.

The Decemberists - The Rake's Song

Anxious Anticipation - DM Stith

I am really excited for the debut release by Indiana-based artist DM Stith. His album Heavy Ghost will be released on March 10th via Asthmatic Kitty Records (Sufjan Stevens, Castanets, etc.).



















My Old Kentucky Blog had a quote in a recent post which expressed the sounds on Heavy Ghost:

"The music on this debut calls to mind Antony And The Johnsons, Grizzly Bear and sometimes the explosiveness of Animal Collective, along with the dissonance of Sonic Youth and Henryk Gorecki, the expressive vocal techniques of Caetano Veloso and Mary Margaret O'Hara, and the romance and textures of Benjamin Britten and Edward Elgar. Vocals sit amongst lush arrangements of piano, guitar, strings, electronics, choir, and percussion. The song structures feel like mini soundtracks. A transfixing and imaginative statement."

Also, amongst other guest appearances on Heavy Ghost, you can expect to hear Sufjan Stevens on stapler, scissors, and a stationary fan. Now if that doesn't amplify your anticipation, I don't know what will.

Here is a song from DM Stith's Curtain Speech EP. The more I hear this song the more I like it. It has a uniqueness that is very intriguing.

DM Stith - Just Once

Sweet New Song By Great Lake Swimmers

I just heard a sweet new song by Great Lake Swimmers on SiriXM U. So I just had to share. This is from Great Lakes Swimmers 4th album which will be released at the end of March.

Great Lake Swimmers - Pulling On A Line

Sun Kil Moon - Moorestown

Sun Kil Moon is the project of singer-songwriter Mark Kozelek, best known for his previous band, Red House Painters. One of my favorite aspects of Mark Kozelek's music is the way he is able to create a mood. This video does a tremendous job of capturing the mood of 'Moorestown' from Sun Kil Moon's 2008 album, April. Enjoy!

New Andrew Bird Has Got Me Whistling!

Okay, I just got to let you know about Andrew Bird's new album 'Noble Beast'. What a phenomenal record that is unique to most other indie music these days. The first three songs all feature the whistling of none other than Andrew himself. Now this is nothing new for Andrew Bird albums, but in my opinion he has really notched out a niche on 'Noble Beast'. Track number 3, "Fitz and Dizzyspells", is one of those songs that you will find yourself whistling to (maybe to the dismay of those around you) where ever you are. The whistling combined with Andrew's precise playing of his violin throughout create an album that continues to reward the listener.