I just read that Eric Johnson, the singer/songwriter for Seattle-based band the Fruit Bats, is also a member of the Shins now. Isn't that interesting? I also, recently saw a piece about street cart food featuring a recently fired member of the Shins. Seems like the ole Shins have a lot of shhh going down, hopefully it will birth a great break-up record ala Fleetwood Mac. But I digress...
I mention the Fruit Bats for a reason, dear reader, they are appearing at our favorite fortress of indie-rock the Mohawk tomorrow night and we think you should probably go. I know it's a Wednesday but it's the 'Hawk y'all; shows over by midnight, last call is at 2, last bus leaves downtown at 2:40, drunk food at your favorite late-night diner, argue politics with some cowboys from the Broken Spoke, make-up over flasks of whiskey (obvs), sing along to Willy, watch the sunrise... fuck work, let's party!
Fruit Bats - Lives of Crime video via YouTube
Free Mp3's courtesy of Subpop, thanks.
Free Mp3 ---> Fruit Bats - The Ruminant Band
Free Mp3 ---> Fruit Bats - My Unusual Friend
Free Mp3 ---> Fruit Bats - Silent Life
Damn, I sort of got caught up in that moment back there, sorry 'bout that. The best way to start your own post-Fruit Bats story is by getting yourself a ticket to the show. Then, while you're at the show you'll STFU while the MFing band is playing or I'll judo chop your larynx, just so you know. You'll take some awful pictures with your iPhone and send it to your POS roommate who's at Hula Huts trying to get some ass all the while experiencing some kick-ass music from a, tighter-than-ever, incarnation of the Fruit Bats.
Fruit Bats - When U Love Somebody video via YouTube
The Low Lows play the 9 O'clock, opening, slot tomorrow night. From them, you can expect some 3-part harmonies, some steel guitar, some nice little melodies and a 40 minutes set time. What more could you ask for really? A Lone Star perhaps?
the Low Lows - Black Bees video via YouTube. We <3 you La Blogotheque.
Death Vessel will be playing the 10 O'clock slot tomorrow night. Would you believe they're from Providence, RI? I thought Deer Tick was the only decent band America's bitch, Rhode Island would give us. However, with Death Vessel's relatively-recent signing to Subpop Records it seems as though there's room enough in RI for 2 good bands...I doubt there are anymore though. Seriously, have you been to Providence? Didn't think so.
Death Vessel - Circa video via YouTube
Free Mp3 courtesy of Subpop, thanks.
Free Mp3 ---> Death Vessel - Bruno's Torso
Read more!
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Saturday, August 29, 2009
Bloggy Interviews Bad Veins
Last night I had the chance to catch up with Bad Veins at Emo's before their set. Don't worry if you missed it, Ben and Sebastian will be back next month with label mates Division Day.
I kept the interview pretty brief, but we chatted about touring, analog v. digital and all that fun stuff. You can find the transcription below the break.
How is touring?
It’s fun, touring is fun, I mean it’s kind of exhausting it seems like playing a show is such a small part of touring because there’s so much traveling and just the logistics, the logistics of traveling is what you spend all your time on.
So, how are you traveling? Are you driving a van? You ride? Fly?
I wish we flew
Yeah, we’ve got a van pull our gear in a wagon like every other band out there.
Do you both drive? You switch drivers? How many people tour with you?
Well, our friend Aaron’s with us on this tour he’s helping us drive, helping us do merch and move in gear.
But it’s just the three of you?
Yeah, yeah.
Sometimes we tour just the two of us. We did a whole east coast tour last month it was just us two.
It’ll never happen again.
Was it difficult to take the songs from the record and re-interpret them live? Had you already planned that?
Yeah, we kind of worked backwards, like, I mean, yeah we made the record knowing how we were going to do it live. That was with Irene, the tape deck. Opening that possibility up, that allowed us to do anything for the record knowing we’d just do it on the tape.
So, you’re a fan of the old analog sound huh?
Well yeah, it’s fun. It’s fun and easy except for it’s heavy.
Have you thought about replacing it with a digital…?
It doesn’t seem interested. It’s probably less interesting for the audience.
Do you take a lot of time laboring over the artwork?
Well I mean the CD artwork is what we did first, that’s what the label wanted us to focus on. Yeah, we spent a lot of time on the CD artwork, we had a lot of ideas, it took us awhile to get it right, I think.
How has it been going from doing everything by yourself to all of a sudden having all these other hands in the stew?
In some ways it’s been really good cause we don’t have to worry about a lot of things. But, the creative thing you know might be a little uh too many hands in the stew. Everybody want to design this or that we have our ideas, they have their ideas.
You had to wait awhile between the point the album was done and now when it’s actually out.
A long time
We finished it, right before CMJ last year, so last October, the end of October. And, you know it just came out a month ago.
It must have been pretty frustrating at point…
Yeah, well once we knew it was coming out we could sigh. But we finished it right before the holiday season and you can’t really go shopping stuff around during that. And we got the deal with Dangerbird Records in February. So, once that happened it took till July to get the artwork, the distribution, get everything in place.
So really it was 3.5-4 months from the point the record was done until we knew how it was going to be released.
Have you had any Spinal Tap-esque moments on the tour so far?
Wait, what’s a Spinal Tap-esque moment?
You know a tragic-comic, like I’m too cool to deal with this shit kind of moment.
Yes, we had one in Cincinnatti actually.
At a hometown show?
It was a benefit we were doing for people who weren’t necessarily in the music scene. So, those always go weird. Cause they want you to play, “we want this cool band everyone is talking about” come play. Then you go to play and as soon as you start playing, “aww, you’re too loud” and all that kind of stuff. We had one of those.
The funniest part about it for me, I was actually wearing this shirt (Point to red button up shirt he’s wearing), which kind of fits in with Bad Veins aesthetic cause we have the roses, and like the military thing cause we usually have military shirts on . We were on stage there’s a curtain that closed in front of us and I was getting ready to rip [this shirt] off and change into another one and as soon as I started to unbutton the curtain started to open. So, I’m like ok I’m going to wear this shirt, that’s fine. So, the curtain goes by and hits my mic stand and knocks it over. We’re on stage and we weren’t ready for the curtain to be open but they were ready for us to start. So, the mic falls over and we were just sort of standing there. We just sort of brushed it off like, uh if we’re cool with it the crowd will be cool with it.
So, I have to ask...Bad Veins/Bad Brains...
It wasn’t intentional. I had never heard of Bad Brains when I came up with the name.
So, why Bad Veins, is there a reason or is it just one of those things?
One of those things.
Read more!
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Great Local Shows Friday
Well you may, or may not, remember a few weeks back I was musing over Bad Veins well tomorrow is our chance to see them live Austin. They'll be playing Emo's outside stage with a lot of really good local artists as well. I'm not really sure the set order but I know that Built By Snow, The White White Lights, and the Black & White Years will all be performing. I'm guessing White White Lights on first, followed by Built By Snow, then Black & White Years with Bad Veins headlining. This being an Emo's show, the first set will probably be at 10pm. If you're interested, you can check this show out for $5 at the door unless you're a tween, in which case it will be $8 of your parent's money. ;-)
Bad Veins - Gold and Warm video via YouTube
The other big local show I have to mention is the first of two nights with The Sword at the Mohawk. I probably don't have to really explain why this is a big deal to most of you, but trust me it's a pretty big deal. These guys have been playing stadiums, opening for Metallica, drinking with Lars and shhh.
the Sword - Iron Swan video via YouTube
Sorry about the shite audio in the above video. I just wanted to emphasize that the Sword don't really play venues as small as the Mohawk too much these days.
the Sword - Maiden, Mother & Crone video via YouTube
Opening for the Sword Friday will be Ratking and Pack of Wolves. For the Saturday night show at the Mohawk you'll see Fingaar Bangaar and Woodgrain
David DiDonato of Ratking - How To Play the Solo from BYOIED video via YouTube
I'm not, necessarily, into "Metal" or "Angry Music" in general but I'm always a fan of melody and passion, so I'm certainly a fan of The Sword. Although, it's partly just "Hometown-Pride" that makes me a fan. Obviously, the Sword isn't the only face-melting metal band to come from Austin. Which, is pretty much the point of these shows at the 'Hawk. A celebration of melting faces! Melting faces in celebration? Celebratory Face-Melting.
Pack of Wolves - Concession video via YouTube
See, not everything I blog about is wussy and jangly, just most of it.
Read more!
Bad Veins - Gold and Warm video via YouTube
The other big local show I have to mention is the first of two nights with The Sword at the Mohawk. I probably don't have to really explain why this is a big deal to most of you, but trust me it's a pretty big deal. These guys have been playing stadiums, opening for Metallica, drinking with Lars and shhh.
the Sword - Iron Swan video via YouTube
Sorry about the shite audio in the above video. I just wanted to emphasize that the Sword don't really play venues as small as the Mohawk too much these days.
the Sword - Maiden, Mother & Crone video via YouTube
Opening for the Sword Friday will be Ratking and Pack of Wolves. For the Saturday night show at the Mohawk you'll see Fingaar Bangaar and Woodgrain
David DiDonato of Ratking - How To Play the Solo from BYOIED video via YouTube
I'm not, necessarily, into "Metal" or "Angry Music" in general but I'm always a fan of melody and passion, so I'm certainly a fan of The Sword. Although, it's partly just "Hometown-Pride" that makes me a fan. Obviously, the Sword isn't the only face-melting metal band to come from Austin. Which, is pretty much the point of these shows at the 'Hawk. A celebration of melting faces! Melting faces in celebration? Celebratory Face-Melting.
Pack of Wolves - Concession video via YouTube
See, not everything I blog about is wussy and jangly, just most of it.
Read more!
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Blogs Go Crazy for FunFunFunFest
Wow, the blogosphere pretty much shut down with the announcement of the FunFunFunFest line-up, today. I'm not gonna really get into it since it was even covered on the big-name national blogs like BrooklynVegan, so chances are you already know who's gonna be there. I just wanted to give props to one of Austin's most over-looked/kick-ass bands, Bankrupt and the Borrowers.
Bankrupt is one of those bands that all the other bands in town go to see, but they haven't really received as much attention/press as some of their audience. I'm thinking FunFunFunFest is really starting to get some national attention this year and hopefully that will mean good things for Bankrupt and the Borrowers
Bankrupt and the Borrowers - I Love You Baby video via YouTube
If you live here in Texas, you'll have plenty of chances to catch Bankrupt and the Borrowers before they hit the Yellow stage for FFFFest. In fact, they're playing Red 7 tomorrow night. How do ya' like that?
Bankrupt and the Borrowers - Holden Caulfield at Age 35 video via another great Austin blog, 'Nites ATX
I hate linking to MySpace, since even Tom won't use it anymore, but that's the best place for you to see all the places where you can catch Bankrupt and the Borrowers in person.
Y'all should really check out that 'Nite ATX blog. Their YouTube channel alone should tell you why.
Bankrupt and the Borrowers - Goddamn Right video via YouTube
Read more!
Bankrupt is one of those bands that all the other bands in town go to see, but they haven't really received as much attention/press as some of their audience. I'm thinking FunFunFunFest is really starting to get some national attention this year and hopefully that will mean good things for Bankrupt and the Borrowers
Bankrupt and the Borrowers - I Love You Baby video via YouTube
If you live here in Texas, you'll have plenty of chances to catch Bankrupt and the Borrowers before they hit the Yellow stage for FFFFest. In fact, they're playing Red 7 tomorrow night. How do ya' like that?
Bankrupt and the Borrowers - Holden Caulfield at Age 35 video via another great Austin blog, 'Nites ATX
I hate linking to MySpace, since even Tom won't use it anymore, but that's the best place for you to see all the places where you can catch Bankrupt and the Borrowers in person.
Y'all should really check out that 'Nite ATX blog. Their YouTube channel alone should tell you why.
Bankrupt and the Borrowers - Goddamn Right video via YouTube
Read more!
Monday, August 24, 2009
Beastie's Out Yeah Yeah Yeah's In
I must say, I'm not entirely surprised to find out that the Yeah Yeah Yeah's have taken over the headlining spot left open by the Beastie Boys for ACL Fest. The Yeah's latest album, It's Blitz! inspires much joy from large masses. Also, they've been playing the festival circuit pretty hard this summer both in the states and abroad. Some of the photos I saw from one of those festivals had Yeah's singer Karen O decked out in some psychedelic, Native-American-type shhh that would have made Bjork jealous. So, obviously the days of the Yeah's pumping out dirty punk in tiny bars has long since passed. Now they can afford much better drugs, which have shown them a shiny, glowing world of pulsing dance riddims. I, for one, think they'll put on a great spectacle of an ACL performance and I look forward to it. I hope they pull off a random Beastie Boys cover song out of respect. I'm thinking anything from Check Your Head could be pretty mind blowing. Stay away from Paul's Boutique though Yeah Yeah Yeah's, that shhh is untouchable!
Yeah Yeah Yeah's - Heads Will Roll video via YouTube
In other ACL Festival line-up news, Lily Allen recently bowed out of the fest as well. Leaving a new, smaller hole in the line-up. I say they fill her in with someone who is sort of doing the same thing as Lily just to remind her how quickly she can and will be replaced. Ouch!
Lily Allen - LDN video via YouTube
Don't get it twisted, I love Lily Allen but seriously there have to be like a million bratty English girls who are ready, willing and able to sing about their ex-boyfriend's penises. I'm thinking Kate Nash would be a suitable replacement perhaps?
Kate Nash - Foundations video via YouTube
Did you think I was just gonna say, "Paul's Boutique is untouchable" without including some evidence?
Beastie Boys - Shadrach video via YouTube
Read more!
Yeah Yeah Yeah's - Heads Will Roll video via YouTube
In other ACL Festival line-up news, Lily Allen recently bowed out of the fest as well. Leaving a new, smaller hole in the line-up. I say they fill her in with someone who is sort of doing the same thing as Lily just to remind her how quickly she can and will be replaced. Ouch!
Lily Allen - LDN video via YouTube
Don't get it twisted, I love Lily Allen but seriously there have to be like a million bratty English girls who are ready, willing and able to sing about their ex-boyfriend's penises. I'm thinking Kate Nash would be a suitable replacement perhaps?
Kate Nash - Foundations video via YouTube
Did you think I was just gonna say, "Paul's Boutique is untouchable" without including some evidence?
Beastie Boys - Shadrach video via YouTube
Read more!
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Bat For Lashes/ACL Aftershowthoughts
The Bat For Lashes show at the Parish room is happening tomorrow night. It's sold-out but I thought I'd mention it anyway, since it sort of crept up on me. I had a mini-panic attack when I couldn't find my ticket, which was purchased before Bloggy HQ moved to South Austin. Turns out it was under my cat! Not really, but if I'm looking for the remote that's a pretty good guess.
I told someone at work that I thought Bat For Lashes' music was like a soundtrack to its own movie. They were busy working. Did I mention I randomly shouted this? Sometimes I just need to share things with people even if they have no idea what I'm talking about, ya know?
Bat For Lashes - Horse and I (acoustic) video via YouTube
Non-Bat For Lashes banter below the break.
It wasn't too many posts back that I was himming/hawing re: ACL Fest after-shows. Well, dear reader, today they announced said after-shows in an officially "pre-sale" announcement kind of way. It's difficult to type right now because I'm busy patting myself on the back about my correct guesses. However, I am also punching myself in the crotch because Phoenix is NOT playing an ACL Fest after-show. I have not given up on them yet though, there is always a chance they could play at Waterloo? Or maybe some kid's house party? Maybe? Holler at Bloggy Phoenix we'll find you a spot to play your instruments.
Phoenix - Armistice (Live Acoustic) video via YouTube
Did you know Phoenix used to be the touring band for Air? I effing love Air! The band AND the entity. Stereogum is actually a reference to the song Radio #1 by Air probably from their worst album but also their most "indie/alt/underground/betterthanwhateversongsoralbumsthatyouknowhaveorhavelistenedtobyair". Air will NOT be at ACL Fest this year, but that would be cool and handy since Phoenix is gonna be there.
Air - Kelly Watch the Stars ft. Phoenix video via YouTube
While, I am going off an tangents and such I'd like to OFFICIALLY NOMINATE Cornelius for the Beastie Boys unfortunately-vacant ACLslot. Make it happen internets!
Free Mp3 courtesy of Matador Records, thanks.
Free Mp3 ---> Cornelius - Point of View Point
Cornelius - Drop video via YouTube
When I used to do radio in college, I played this next song in a set of lost Beatles songs that the Beatles never did.
Cornelius - Chapter 8: Seashore and Horizon video via YouTube
Read more!
I told someone at work that I thought Bat For Lashes' music was like a soundtrack to its own movie. They were busy working. Did I mention I randomly shouted this? Sometimes I just need to share things with people even if they have no idea what I'm talking about, ya know?
Bat For Lashes - Horse and I (acoustic) video via YouTube
Non-Bat For Lashes banter below the break.
It wasn't too many posts back that I was himming/hawing re: ACL Fest after-shows. Well, dear reader, today they announced said after-shows in an officially "pre-sale" announcement kind of way. It's difficult to type right now because I'm busy patting myself on the back about my correct guesses. However, I am also punching myself in the crotch because Phoenix is NOT playing an ACL Fest after-show. I have not given up on them yet though, there is always a chance they could play at Waterloo? Or maybe some kid's house party? Maybe? Holler at Bloggy Phoenix we'll find you a spot to play your instruments.
Phoenix - Armistice (Live Acoustic) video via YouTube
Did you know Phoenix used to be the touring band for Air? I effing love Air! The band AND the entity. Stereogum is actually a reference to the song Radio #1 by Air probably from their worst album but also their most "indie/alt/underground/betterthanwhateversongsoralbumsthatyouknowhaveorhavelistenedtobyair". Air will NOT be at ACL Fest this year, but that would be cool and handy since Phoenix is gonna be there.
Air - Kelly Watch the Stars ft. Phoenix video via YouTube
While, I am going off an tangents and such I'd like to OFFICIALLY NOMINATE Cornelius for the Beastie Boys unfortunately-vacant ACLslot. Make it happen internets!
Free Mp3 courtesy of Matador Records, thanks.
Free Mp3 ---> Cornelius - Point of View Point
Cornelius - Drop video via YouTube
When I used to do radio in college, I played this next song in a set of lost Beatles songs that the Beatles never did.
Cornelius - Chapter 8: Seashore and Horizon video via YouTube
Read more!
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Thursday Night Shows
Bowerbirds are playing the Mohawk Thursday night, with local opener, Martin Crane. All I know about Martin Crane is that there is some affiliation with the band Brazos. I also know that Martin Crane was also Frasier's dad. Bowerbirds have been making ripples in the indie-blog world but I don't think the big buzz for them has started just yet. I've heard them on Sirius XM radio and I really enjoy it, definatly has potential to appeal to a larger audience. So I'm going to officially endorse them as Bloggy-approved.
Bowerbirds - In Our Talons video via YouTube
Free Mp3's courtesy of Dead Oceans Records, thanks.
Free Mp3 ---> Bowerbirds - Northern Lights
Free Mp3 ---> Bowerbirds - Beneath Your Tree
I also, want to mention a show that's going on at Beerland Thu night. My pals in When Dinosaurs Ruled the Earth are about to go on a west coast tour so I think you should check out their live show before they pile into a van. Apologies for the video re-post but it's all/the best video I could find featuring the Dinos.
When Dinosaurs Ruled the Earth - It's Not the Heat, It's the Humidity video via YouTube
If you do head to Beerland tomorrow you'll also have the chance to catch Daniel Francis Doyle. I think that's one of those names that sounds more famous than it actually is. That's a tip for you, dear reader, use three names and earn more respect and/or become infamous instead of famous. :-/
Daniel Francis Doyle - Your Cursive video via YouTube
Oh, and I almost forgot to mention the touring support act for Bowerbirds at the Mohawk will be Megafaun. They're based in the Raleigh-Durham, NC scene and they play really nice roots-style music with Banjo and everything! Think J. Tillman/Fleet Foxes/Bowerbirds. :-)
Megafaun - Beloved Binge video via YouTube
Megafaun is also very Bloggy-approved. In fact I am heading to End of an Ear right now to pick up their album, Gather, Form & Fly. I really like what I've heard so far. I don't really like the artwork for the new album though, just sayin'.
Read more!
Bowerbirds - In Our Talons video via YouTube
Free Mp3's courtesy of Dead Oceans Records, thanks.
Free Mp3 ---> Bowerbirds - Northern Lights
Free Mp3 ---> Bowerbirds - Beneath Your Tree
I also, want to mention a show that's going on at Beerland Thu night. My pals in When Dinosaurs Ruled the Earth are about to go on a west coast tour so I think you should check out their live show before they pile into a van. Apologies for the video re-post but it's all/the best video I could find featuring the Dinos.
When Dinosaurs Ruled the Earth - It's Not the Heat, It's the Humidity video via YouTube
If you do head to Beerland tomorrow you'll also have the chance to catch Daniel Francis Doyle. I think that's one of those names that sounds more famous than it actually is. That's a tip for you, dear reader, use three names and earn more respect and/or become infamous instead of famous. :-/
Daniel Francis Doyle - Your Cursive video via YouTube
Oh, and I almost forgot to mention the touring support act for Bowerbirds at the Mohawk will be Megafaun. They're based in the Raleigh-Durham, NC scene and they play really nice roots-style music with Banjo and everything! Think J. Tillman/Fleet Foxes/Bowerbirds. :-)
Megafaun - Beloved Binge video via YouTube
Megafaun is also very Bloggy-approved. In fact I am heading to End of an Ear right now to pick up their album, Gather, Form & Fly. I really like what I've heard so far. I don't really like the artwork for the new album though, just sayin'.
Read more!
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Amy Cook Playing the Mohawk
Well folks, it looks like you may be standing in line if you want to see Amy Cook at the Mohawk tomorrow night. Twitter is all a buzz right now with the recent info that fellow Austinite, and presumed fan Ben Kweller will be playing a solo set as well. According to his Twitter account, he'll actually be taking requests. The doors open at 8p, tickets cost $8 and I'd get there early, especially if you want to get beer AND get a good spot to stand/sit.
Amy Cook - The Answer video via YouTube
The official bill for this Amy Cook show says that she'll be performing with the Tosca Strings, the name sounded familiar but I wasn't quite sure until I checked, good ole' YouTube. Here's what I found:
Voxtrot - Reaching For the Lasers (Episode 4) video via YouTube
Remember Voxtrot? I like Voxtrot, they should release some more EP's, their EP's always kick ass. They're down with the Tosca Strings and so is Rick Linklater, which is neither here nor there.
Speaking of things, which are barely related to this post. Remember, when Ben Kweller teamed up with Ben Folds and Ben Lee and they called themselves the Bens? I wonder if they'll ever collaborate again? Maybe I'll request this song tomorrow night, you think B. Kweller would be pissed if I requested the Bens?
the Bens - Bruised video via YouTube
I suppose it'd be smarted to choose a the Bens song, which features less Folds and more Kweller. LESS FOLDS MORE KWELLER!! DONNA MARTIN GRADUATES!!
Ben Kweller - Wantin' Her Again video via YouTube
Just for the hell of it, and cause I've had Austin City Limits Festival on the brain lately, here's the Tosca Strings performing, my favorite, Vampire Weekend song with VW at ACL last year.
Vampire Weekend w/the Tosca Strings - M79 video via YouTube
Read more!
Amy Cook - The Answer video via YouTube
The official bill for this Amy Cook show says that she'll be performing with the Tosca Strings, the name sounded familiar but I wasn't quite sure until I checked, good ole' YouTube. Here's what I found:
Voxtrot - Reaching For the Lasers (Episode 4) video via YouTube
Remember Voxtrot? I like Voxtrot, they should release some more EP's, their EP's always kick ass. They're down with the Tosca Strings and so is Rick Linklater, which is neither here nor there.
Speaking of things, which are barely related to this post. Remember, when Ben Kweller teamed up with Ben Folds and Ben Lee and they called themselves the Bens? I wonder if they'll ever collaborate again? Maybe I'll request this song tomorrow night, you think B. Kweller would be pissed if I requested the Bens?
the Bens - Bruised video via YouTube
I suppose it'd be smarted to choose a the Bens song, which features less Folds and more Kweller. LESS FOLDS MORE KWELLER!! DONNA MARTIN GRADUATES!!
Ben Kweller - Wantin' Her Again video via YouTube
Just for the hell of it, and cause I've had Austin City Limits Festival on the brain lately, here's the Tosca Strings performing, my favorite, Vampire Weekend song with VW at ACL last year.
Vampire Weekend w/the Tosca Strings - M79 video via YouTube
Read more!
Monday, August 10, 2009
Girls w/ the Campesinos Friday
Are y'all going to catch Girls with Los Campesinos Friday night? I feel like Los Campesinos played a show here in town quite recently, not that I'm complaining...yet. In any case, I'm actually as excited/more excited to catch Girls again. I know it can be tough with Women, Girls and Vivian Girls all on the scene at once but hey at least they're not all in town together like they were during SXSW. Apparently Vagina-inspired band names are the new animal-inspired band names. Although, I'm pretty sure crystal-bands were already the new animal-band but you see where I'm going with this.
Girls - Hellhole Ratrace video via YouTube
Los Campesinos are known for being Canadian, and putting on a very high-energy show. It seems to me that it's a little bit easier to put on a high energy show when there are a billion people on the stage (See Polyphonic Spree). I'm not trying to knock Los Campesinos but it will be strange to see 7-11 band members after seeing Girls perform as a duo. But I digress. I'm pretty sure you can still get tickets to this show. At least at the moment that I'm writing this. That's why I'm posting about it on Monday so maybe you can actually get in to the show.
Los Campesinos are on one of my favorite labels, Arts & Crafts home to Stars, and Broken Social Scene among others. So, chances are if you like those pleasantly Canadian, indie-pop gems then you'll enjoy this one as well.
Los Campesinos - Death to Los Campesinos! video via YouTube
Chicago band Smith Westerns will be kicking things off at Emo's outside stage Friday night and tickets will set you back a cool $14 before extraneous fee-age. Check 'em out on Chicago Public-Access television. Meanwhile, in Austin, Texas politics biker-style? In any case, I'm really into the whole droney, Phil Spector, surf-garage, indie-movement so this band is right up my alley (see, Austin band, Harlem for example).
Smith Westerns - Tonight video via YouTube
I also have to note that on the Smith Westerns' Myspace page they describe their music as sounding like "blogs", which I find to be both funny and true or possibly funny BECAUSE it's true.
Oh and here's one more from Girls before I sign-off.
Girls - Lust For Life video via YouTube
Read more!
Girls - Hellhole Ratrace video via YouTube
Los Campesinos are known for being Canadian, and putting on a very high-energy show. It seems to me that it's a little bit easier to put on a high energy show when there are a billion people on the stage (See Polyphonic Spree). I'm not trying to knock Los Campesinos but it will be strange to see 7-11 band members after seeing Girls perform as a duo. But I digress. I'm pretty sure you can still get tickets to this show. At least at the moment that I'm writing this. That's why I'm posting about it on Monday so maybe you can actually get in to the show.
Los Campesinos are on one of my favorite labels, Arts & Crafts home to Stars, and Broken Social Scene among others. So, chances are if you like those pleasantly Canadian, indie-pop gems then you'll enjoy this one as well.
Los Campesinos - Death to Los Campesinos! video via YouTube
Chicago band Smith Westerns will be kicking things off at Emo's outside stage Friday night and tickets will set you back a cool $14 before extraneous fee-age. Check 'em out on Chicago Public-Access television. Meanwhile, in Austin, Texas politics biker-style? In any case, I'm really into the whole droney, Phil Spector, surf-garage, indie-movement so this band is right up my alley (see, Austin band, Harlem for example).
Smith Westerns - Tonight video via YouTube
I also have to note that on the Smith Westerns' Myspace page they describe their music as sounding like "blogs", which I find to be both funny and true or possibly funny BECAUSE it's true.
Oh and here's one more from Girls before I sign-off.
Girls - Lust For Life video via YouTube
Read more!
Sunday, August 9, 2009
Festivals and Festivals and Conjecture
I was following along with the happenings at Lollapalooza this past weekend, via Twitter, and it got me thinking about ACL Festival. The first thing I wanted to look at is what are going to be the tough decisions? In other words, two Bloggy-approved acts performing simultaneously and/or inter-lapping time-slots on separate stages. I'll get to all of that fun-ness after the jump. The other two concerns I have at the moment, with the festival still three months away, are what will the after-shows be this year? Also, who will take-over the headlining slot now that the Beastie Boys won't be in attendance?
I feel like to fill-in the Beastie's slot could be pretty tough but at the same time I'm sure the festival audience will be satisfied with any big name. Personally, I haven't heard any rumors or rumblings regarding a replacement act. I remember a few years back when Muse filled in for the White Stripes in their absence. That was definitely a good swap in my humble opinion. Usually, we could look to other festivals for clues. Perhaps, Austin will have an evening with Phish but somehow I find that unlikely. A Tribe Called Quest could keep the classic-rap vibe going but I don't know if that would excite as many people as the Beastie Boys. Who do you think will fill in the giant gap/Friday headlining spot?
Beastie Boys - Shake Your Rump video via YouTube
I feel like for the VS. portion of this discussion I should wait until the festival gets closer but I'll still give you a preview. On the first day of ACL you'll have to decide on Phoenix VS. Daniel Johnston. Oh, the problems we have to deal with at festivals, I could just cry.
For now I want to just devote this post to conjecture. As I have mentioned several times in the past, I prefer to check out the whole after-show scene at the clubs/bars downtown rather than hoofing it in the heat with the masses. Call me a snob if you must, I'm ok with it. Last year I had a great time at all of the after-events although I will tell you I spent almost as much on tickets for all of those shows as I would have for festival passes. I'd say my favorite event from last year was catching Jamie Lidell at the Parish room. That was a pretty bad-ass show.
This year my after-show predictions are based on the idea that there are usually three venues hosting after-shows on Fri, Sat, and Sun nights and maybe one or two hosting pre-show shows on Thu night.
For the pre-show position there aren't a lot of acts that stand out to me there. Last year David Byrne played a pre-show at the Paramount. So, I'm thinking maybe Andrew Bird, he played the Paramount last time he was in town and he is a KGSR/Adult-Alternative friendly artist. He's also playing a close-to headlining slot Friday night of the fest.
Andrew Bird - Measuring Cups video via YouTube
For my Friday night ACL after-show conjecture, I'm really hoping to catch Phoenix at the Parish but that's VERY wishful thinking. Chances are, even if there is a Phoenix after-show La Zona Rosa is a more likely venue but that's fine with me as well. I also, sort of hope/expect there to be a Thievery Corporation after-show, probably at Emo's. I'm also gonna tag Bassnectar and the Walkmen for possible after-shows Friday.
Phoenix - Listzomania video via YouTube. We love you John Hughes, your films and inspiration will live-on forever.
You are keeping in mind, that I'm making all of this up just using educated guess-work right? For Saturday night, there are lots of possibilities this tends to be the night with the most/best after-shows. It's the middle of the fest, people are still hyped and not totally exhausted...yet. So, the first artist I'm going to tag for a Sat night ACL after-show is, the Decemberists they love to play Austin and almost every time they have a show here, they have three shows here. They could pretty much play anywhere but I'd like to see them at Club Deville. I also feel like a ...Trail of Dead after-show is to be expected. At first I was thinking Ghostland but they're headlining a stage Sat night so I expect that will be their only show. Other than that I'm thinking !!! is a pretty likely possibility as well as Devotchka. But, I'd be really psyched if Deer Tick and/or Grizzly Bear did a Sat night after-show.
Deer Tick - Easy video via YouTube. Sorry 'bout the fake vid but this is what I could find.
For Sunday night that's usually a night that only has a couple of after-shows but they are power-house shows. Last year I saw M.Ward, Jenny Lewis, and Conor Oberst on a shared bill Sunday night. So for this year's Sunday night I'm going to tag, the Dead Weather, Arctic Monkeys, Passion Pit, Girl Talk and maybe Clutch.
PS22 Chorus - Seaweed Song (Passion Pit song) video via YouTube
So, that's my festival conjecture for now. Put your predictions in the comments we'll see who is best at predicting the future.
Beastie Boys - Jimmy James video via YouTube
Read more!
I feel like to fill-in the Beastie's slot could be pretty tough but at the same time I'm sure the festival audience will be satisfied with any big name. Personally, I haven't heard any rumors or rumblings regarding a replacement act. I remember a few years back when Muse filled in for the White Stripes in their absence. That was definitely a good swap in my humble opinion. Usually, we could look to other festivals for clues. Perhaps, Austin will have an evening with Phish but somehow I find that unlikely. A Tribe Called Quest could keep the classic-rap vibe going but I don't know if that would excite as many people as the Beastie Boys. Who do you think will fill in the giant gap/Friday headlining spot?
Beastie Boys - Shake Your Rump video via YouTube
I feel like for the VS. portion of this discussion I should wait until the festival gets closer but I'll still give you a preview. On the first day of ACL you'll have to decide on Phoenix VS. Daniel Johnston. Oh, the problems we have to deal with at festivals, I could just cry.
For now I want to just devote this post to conjecture. As I have mentioned several times in the past, I prefer to check out the whole after-show scene at the clubs/bars downtown rather than hoofing it in the heat with the masses. Call me a snob if you must, I'm ok with it. Last year I had a great time at all of the after-events although I will tell you I spent almost as much on tickets for all of those shows as I would have for festival passes. I'd say my favorite event from last year was catching Jamie Lidell at the Parish room. That was a pretty bad-ass show.
This year my after-show predictions are based on the idea that there are usually three venues hosting after-shows on Fri, Sat, and Sun nights and maybe one or two hosting pre-show shows on Thu night.
For the pre-show position there aren't a lot of acts that stand out to me there. Last year David Byrne played a pre-show at the Paramount. So, I'm thinking maybe Andrew Bird, he played the Paramount last time he was in town and he is a KGSR/Adult-Alternative friendly artist. He's also playing a close-to headlining slot Friday night of the fest.
Andrew Bird - Measuring Cups video via YouTube
For my Friday night ACL after-show conjecture, I'm really hoping to catch Phoenix at the Parish but that's VERY wishful thinking. Chances are, even if there is a Phoenix after-show La Zona Rosa is a more likely venue but that's fine with me as well. I also, sort of hope/expect there to be a Thievery Corporation after-show, probably at Emo's. I'm also gonna tag Bassnectar and the Walkmen for possible after-shows Friday.
Phoenix - Listzomania video via YouTube. We love you John Hughes, your films and inspiration will live-on forever.
You are keeping in mind, that I'm making all of this up just using educated guess-work right? For Saturday night, there are lots of possibilities this tends to be the night with the most/best after-shows. It's the middle of the fest, people are still hyped and not totally exhausted...yet. So, the first artist I'm going to tag for a Sat night ACL after-show is, the Decemberists they love to play Austin and almost every time they have a show here, they have three shows here. They could pretty much play anywhere but I'd like to see them at Club Deville. I also feel like a ...Trail of Dead after-show is to be expected. At first I was thinking Ghostland but they're headlining a stage Sat night so I expect that will be their only show. Other than that I'm thinking !!! is a pretty likely possibility as well as Devotchka. But, I'd be really psyched if Deer Tick and/or Grizzly Bear did a Sat night after-show.
Deer Tick - Easy video via YouTube. Sorry 'bout the fake vid but this is what I could find.
For Sunday night that's usually a night that only has a couple of after-shows but they are power-house shows. Last year I saw M.Ward, Jenny Lewis, and Conor Oberst on a shared bill Sunday night. So for this year's Sunday night I'm going to tag, the Dead Weather, Arctic Monkeys, Passion Pit, Girl Talk and maybe Clutch.
PS22 Chorus - Seaweed Song (Passion Pit song) video via YouTube
So, that's my festival conjecture for now. Put your predictions in the comments we'll see who is best at predicting the future.
Beastie Boys - Jimmy James video via YouTube
Read more!
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