Jacob did this and I have followed. Here are the instructions.
1. Delve into your blog archive.
2. Find your 23rd post.
3. Find the fifth sentence.
4. Post the text of the sentence in your blog along with these instructions
Well, here is the fifth sentence from my twenty-third post (prepare to be underwhelmed):
I was first introduced to Mission of Burma though my uncle Craig.
The rest can be read if you click here.
Tag. You're it.
The Brooklyn-based group Black Dice is certainly not easy litening. They are either posess genius that I can't comprehend or are have completely lost their minds. Either way, their music can be unsettling and jarring at times, but is ulimately a very rewarding listen. Their organic-electonic-noise pulsates and screetches, and seems to have a life of its own. Their latest record is out now on DFA/Astralwerks. Listen at your own risk.
The music of Crystal Skulls is a refreshing contrast to the mischief-making of Black Dice. Their smart indie-pop is just the thing to lift your spirits (and probably get your toes tapping as well). The guitars jangle, the bass weaves in and out, and the drums hold the beat steady. While its nothing goundbreaking, their debut full-length just released on Suicide Squeeze Records, is well-played and full of catchy hooks.
MP3 | Black Dice - Smiling Off Broken Ear Record
MP3 | Crystal Skulls - Airport Motels Blocked Numbers
Thursday, September 29, 2005
The fifth from the twenty third -
3
Wednesday, September 28, 2005
Bloggers are people too -
4
I got an email today from Ryan over at My Yellow Country Teeth. It is interesting the first time that you meet someone you know as a blogger or interact with them outside of posting a comment on their blog. It somehow makes them more real as people that you could (gasp!) actually meet in the real world. Now I have many friends that I've known for years that just happen to be bloggers and their blogness is just (in my eyes) an extension of them as people.
I've also met a lot of cool people online through blogging and whose blogs I read regularly. Even so, I don't really know them as people. Who are they? Who are you?
That is why it is actually pretty cool that Ryan emailed me and that Eric from Theme Park Experience will be in Chicago for a benefit show for the book he is working on. Just remember this everyone: bloggers are people too.
There is so much great new music out there that I have no idea where to even start most days. Here's two for the road. Don't forget that you can listen without downloading just by cliking on the "MP3 Player" in the sidebar.
MP3 | Hail Social - No Title ST
MP3 | Bear Vs. Shark - Entrance Of The Elected Terrorhawk
I've also met a lot of cool people online through blogging and whose blogs I read regularly. Even so, I don't really know them as people. Who are they? Who are you?
That is why it is actually pretty cool that Ryan emailed me and that Eric from Theme Park Experience will be in Chicago for a benefit show for the book he is working on. Just remember this everyone: bloggers are people too.
There is so much great new music out there that I have no idea where to even start most days. Here's two for the road. Don't forget that you can listen without downloading just by cliking on the "MP3 Player" in the sidebar.
MP3 | Hail Social - No Title ST
MP3 | Bear Vs. Shark - Entrance Of The Elected Terrorhawk
Tuesday, September 27, 2005
Trouble in the hubble huddle -
5
Troubled Hubble is calling it quits. I know that everyone else has posted this today, but (seeing as they are essentially a local band for me) I will follow suit. I remember them as just another local band from the suburbs, but since those days they have matured and their music has grown by leaps and bounds.
According to their website, they are playing one last show at Schuba's (in Chicago).
for reasons, both physical and personal, the band has decided to make next thursday, september 29th at Schuba's the final Troubled Hubble show. it's been an amazing journey for all of us over the last six years, and we're so thankful to all of our friends and family for supporting us along the way, not to mention all the amazing friends and fans we've met all over the country. you have no idea how much we'll miss seeing you! as for the show, happily it's all ages, so anybody willing and able can attend. if you want to be sure to make the show (especially if you're traveling), we suggest you buy tickets ahead of time here. it's going to be a great show, and we're excited for the opportunity to end a career that we're so proud of on a high note. with any luck, we'll see you there.
I haven't seen them live for years, but their latest album, Making Beds In A Burning House is definately worth checking out.
American Analog Set has a new record. It is good. If you know what AmAnSet sounds like, you know what this album sounds like. Warm, droning, melodic, wonderful. Also, because one of my professors ended last quarter on a good note by showing an excerpt from the film Lost In Translation, I give you Bryan Ferry and Roxy Music. Bill Murray sang karaoke to this song in the film. I love this song.
MP3 | American Analog Set - Play Hurt Set Free
MP3 | Roxy Music - More Than This Avalon
According to their website, they are playing one last show at Schuba's (in Chicago).
for reasons, both physical and personal, the band has decided to make next thursday, september 29th at Schuba's the final Troubled Hubble show. it's been an amazing journey for all of us over the last six years, and we're so thankful to all of our friends and family for supporting us along the way, not to mention all the amazing friends and fans we've met all over the country. you have no idea how much we'll miss seeing you! as for the show, happily it's all ages, so anybody willing and able can attend. if you want to be sure to make the show (especially if you're traveling), we suggest you buy tickets ahead of time here. it's going to be a great show, and we're excited for the opportunity to end a career that we're so proud of on a high note. with any luck, we'll see you there.
I haven't seen them live for years, but their latest album, Making Beds In A Burning House is definately worth checking out.
American Analog Set has a new record. It is good. If you know what AmAnSet sounds like, you know what this album sounds like. Warm, droning, melodic, wonderful. Also, because one of my professors ended last quarter on a good note by showing an excerpt from the film Lost In Translation, I give you Bryan Ferry and Roxy Music. Bill Murray sang karaoke to this song in the film. I love this song.
MP3 | American Analog Set - Play Hurt Set Free
MP3 | Roxy Music - More Than This Avalon
Monday, September 26, 2005
Consistency -
2
I may not be a lot of things, but I certainly am consistent. Two new MP3 tracks each and every weekday almost without fail. Tonight is no exception.
Saul Williams is an actor, a poet, and a musician. His words are both personal and political, and brimming with passion. He has a record out on American Recordings and I think that their site eloquently sums up what he is all about.
"Saul's poetry represents an evolution of thought, artistry and spiritual consciousness delivered with the lyrical fervor of hip hop and the grace and linguistic mastery of Shakespeare. Saul channels the voice of the New Age, yet, allows a wide ranging stream of consciousness to distort the melody like some sort of lyrical Hendrix." The SW track that I have posted is sort of a protest song taken from his Catchdubs Mix.
I love the Tetons. What a magical place. The weather is cooling down and that means there will be snow in them there mountains relatively soon. Oh yeah, Modest Mouse has a song that references the Tetons, and that is fine by me.
MP3 | Saul Williams - Let Em Shoot Catchdubs Mix Tape
MP3 | Modest Mouse - Blame It On The Tetons Good News For People Who Love Bad News
Saul Williams is an actor, a poet, and a musician. His words are both personal and political, and brimming with passion. He has a record out on American Recordings and I think that their site eloquently sums up what he is all about.
"Saul's poetry represents an evolution of thought, artistry and spiritual consciousness delivered with the lyrical fervor of hip hop and the grace and linguistic mastery of Shakespeare. Saul channels the voice of the New Age, yet, allows a wide ranging stream of consciousness to distort the melody like some sort of lyrical Hendrix." The SW track that I have posted is sort of a protest song taken from his Catchdubs Mix.
I love the Tetons. What a magical place. The weather is cooling down and that means there will be snow in them there mountains relatively soon. Oh yeah, Modest Mouse has a song that references the Tetons, and that is fine by me.
MP3 | Saul Williams - Let Em Shoot Catchdubs Mix Tape
MP3 | Modest Mouse - Blame It On The Tetons Good News For People Who Love Bad News
Saturday, September 24, 2005
As slow as rapid city -
3
As I am sitting here drinking my morning coffee and checking the news I keep asking myself, "Am I a bad person? Am I misguided?" Let me explain.
Amy and I are currently listening to the new All American Rejects album and I can't help but thinking, "This is pretty dang good (relatively speaking)." Yes, it's overproduced. Yes, it's formulaic. Yes, it's totally catchy. And for whatever reason I found myself comparing this to the new DCFC record.
I've listened to DCFC's Plans 4 (maybe 5) times, and (even now) I can only remember one melody on the album. It's just plain boring. This new AAR album (conversely) is full of memorable hooks and sugary-sweet goodness. Maybe it's because I expected it to be worse, and I expected Death Cab's latest to be much better. But they are both probably going to be marketed to the "Generation OC" right? Plans just seems like a watered-down (mainstream-ized) version of DCFC's previous efforts but AAR's Move Along isn't afraid to rock to excess. One is pretending the other shows it's true colors.
Let's all not forget that the first AAR album was originally released on the punk label Doghouse Records which has released stuff from the likes of Hot Water Music, Get Up Kids, Threadbare, Metroschifter, As Friends Rust, and more. AAR vs. DCFC. You decide the winner.
Anyhow, music for you today from Lewis & Clarke whose latest record is out now on Summersteps Records. It is a grand blending of acoustic guitars, (sometimes) hushed vocals, occasional slide guitar, and more into a lush (yet somehow lonesome and barren sonic landscape. Dark, moody alt-coutry with infectious melodies reminiscent of (at times) Neil Young and Iron & Wine. How could you go wrong? Lucero, on the other hand, has a slightly different take on alt-country. Now I love this band so it's about time I posted something from them. These Memphis "boys" play southern-country-punk-rock that is hard not to love. Their songs are honest and full of punk punk attitude. Known for their raucous live shows (they played the Bottom Lounge in Chicago last night), Lucero is one of the hardest working bands around today. They are always touring so I recommend that you check them out soon. You won't be disappointed.
MP3 | Lewis & Clarke - Bloody Coat Bare Bones And Branches
MP3 | Lucero - Bikeriders Nobody's Darlings
Amy and I are currently listening to the new All American Rejects album and I can't help but thinking, "This is pretty dang good (relatively speaking)." Yes, it's overproduced. Yes, it's formulaic. Yes, it's totally catchy. And for whatever reason I found myself comparing this to the new DCFC record.
I've listened to DCFC's Plans 4 (maybe 5) times, and (even now) I can only remember one melody on the album. It's just plain boring. This new AAR album (conversely) is full of memorable hooks and sugary-sweet goodness. Maybe it's because I expected it to be worse, and I expected Death Cab's latest to be much better. But they are both probably going to be marketed to the "Generation OC" right? Plans just seems like a watered-down (mainstream-ized) version of DCFC's previous efforts but AAR's Move Along isn't afraid to rock to excess. One is pretending the other shows it's true colors.
Let's all not forget that the first AAR album was originally released on the punk label Doghouse Records which has released stuff from the likes of Hot Water Music, Get Up Kids, Threadbare, Metroschifter, As Friends Rust, and more. AAR vs. DCFC. You decide the winner.
Anyhow, music for you today from Lewis & Clarke whose latest record is out now on Summersteps Records. It is a grand blending of acoustic guitars, (sometimes) hushed vocals, occasional slide guitar, and more into a lush (yet somehow lonesome and barren sonic landscape. Dark, moody alt-coutry with infectious melodies reminiscent of (at times) Neil Young and Iron & Wine. How could you go wrong? Lucero, on the other hand, has a slightly different take on alt-country. Now I love this band so it's about time I posted something from them. These Memphis "boys" play southern-country-punk-rock that is hard not to love. Their songs are honest and full of punk punk attitude. Known for their raucous live shows (they played the Bottom Lounge in Chicago last night), Lucero is one of the hardest working bands around today. They are always touring so I recommend that you check them out soon. You won't be disappointed.
MP3 | Lewis & Clarke - Bloody Coat Bare Bones And Branches
MP3 | Lucero - Bikeriders Nobody's Darlings
Thursday, September 22, 2005
Photos and beliefs -
8
Finals = quick post. Sorry gang, but I'm busy.
Canon EOS Digital Rebel, 28-80mm, 30sec at f/18
Canon EOS Digital Rebel, 75-300mm, 20sec at f/32
I'm not even going to link to the bands below. Everyone who has an MP3 blog has probably posted Proton Proton. NYC indie thats actually worth listening to. Moped Band was a trio from the Chicago suburbs. They were amazing. CBT played the guitar and sang (occasionally) for them. If you like Moped Band, let me know and I'll (with permission of course) post more of their tracks.
MP3 | Moped Band - Beliefs Are Dangerous Business/Casual EP
MP3 | Proton Proton - Line Out EP2
Canon EOS Digital Rebel, 28-80mm, 30sec at f/18
Canon EOS Digital Rebel, 75-300mm, 20sec at f/32
I'm not even going to link to the bands below. Everyone who has an MP3 blog has probably posted Proton Proton. NYC indie thats actually worth listening to. Moped Band was a trio from the Chicago suburbs. They were amazing. CBT played the guitar and sang (occasionally) for them. If you like Moped Band, let me know and I'll (with permission of course) post more of their tracks.
MP3 | Moped Band - Beliefs Are Dangerous Business/Casual EP
MP3 | Proton Proton - Line Out EP2
Wednesday, September 21, 2005
A spoonful of emo (vol. 4) -
4
When I think of mid-90's emo I am brought back to a world where of stacks of LP's and 7" records lay strewn about various dorm rooms and apartments. There is something very pleasing about listening to music on vinyl. Is it the imperfect cracks and pops of the record, the warm analog sounds? Perhaps its the large scale of the cover artwork. Listening to a record requires listener participation. Put the record on, set the needle, flip the record over, and repeat. In today's digital age of one song downloads, the vinyl culture is becoming seemingly distant. I know I'm busy and it don't get no more convenient than MP3's, but I miss just sitting around listening to records.
Now Christie Front Drive existed from about 1993 to 1996. They released two full-lengths and a bunch of 7" singles during their brief existance. While I didn't know as much about CFD as I did many other of the genre's bands, that doesn't diminish the power of their music. Intricate guitar interplay, driving melodies, and emotional vocals. The song I've posted is probably one of their most obscure tracks. It is from the No Idea Records compilation, Bread The Edible Napkin.
Mineral formed in 1994 and (just like CFD) released just two albums and a handful of seven inches. One of those was a split with Jimmy Eat World and Sense Field. Shortly after recording their second full length in 1998 (however), the guys in Mineral decided to call it quits. A few of them continue to play in The Gloria Record. While the song "5, 8, & 10" also appears on their album The Power Of Failing, this version is from the Divot Records compilation Ground Rule Double. It is (IMHO) much more powerful than the one on the album.
MP3 | Christie Front Drive - Bag Bread The Edible Napkin Comp.
MP3 | Mineral - 5, 8, & 10 Ground Rule Double Comp.
Now Christie Front Drive existed from about 1993 to 1996. They released two full-lengths and a bunch of 7" singles during their brief existance. While I didn't know as much about CFD as I did many other of the genre's bands, that doesn't diminish the power of their music. Intricate guitar interplay, driving melodies, and emotional vocals. The song I've posted is probably one of their most obscure tracks. It is from the No Idea Records compilation, Bread The Edible Napkin.
Mineral formed in 1994 and (just like CFD) released just two albums and a handful of seven inches. One of those was a split with Jimmy Eat World and Sense Field. Shortly after recording their second full length in 1998 (however), the guys in Mineral decided to call it quits. A few of them continue to play in The Gloria Record. While the song "5, 8, & 10" also appears on their album The Power Of Failing, this version is from the Divot Records compilation Ground Rule Double. It is (IMHO) much more powerful than the one on the album.
MP3 | Christie Front Drive - Bag Bread The Edible Napkin Comp.
MP3 | Mineral - 5, 8, & 10 Ground Rule Double Comp.
Tuesday, September 20, 2005
Giving in is like giving up -
6
It's finally starting to "hit me" that in about 2 months or so I'll be a dad. Me. A dad. That's the truth folks. Am I ready? Is anyone ever ready? Me. Corrupting a young mind and irreversibly warping this child's sense of decency and taste. Wait a sec, my genes have probably already done most of that damage for me. I can imagine a conversation between my daughter and I roughly 8-10 years from now going something like this:
Hailey: Dad?
Me: Yes?
Hailey: Can you download the new (insert boy band name here) MP7's for me?
Me: Why? They aren't any good.
Hailey: But I like them Dad! Gillian has it on her Ipod!
Me: If Gillian jumped off a bridge would you?
Hailey: (Getting upset) It's only $20! Please!
Me: You already have 150 gigabytes of songs by those guys. What do you need more for?
Hailey: (Getting hysterical) PLEASE!
Me: Can't you just listen to something good like The Clash or even Death Cab? You still like Death Cab, right?
Hailey: (Crying uncontollably) I hate Death Cab! I hate all your stupid music! I hate you! (Storming off).
Me: Ok. Ok. Calm down! I'll get you the new (boy band) MP7's. Are you happy now?
Hailey: (Calming down) Yes. But I still think your music stinks.
Perhaps I should enjoy the opportunity for some calm before the impending baby storm. Or maybe I should just keep listening to the new record from Animal Collective. They are still "out there" but Feels is their most accessible record to date. Undeniably Animal Collective but with a few more pop hooks. I also love "Turn! Turn! Turn!" by The Byrds. A timeless song that remains relevant even today.
MP3 | Animal Collective - Grass Feels
MP3 | The Byrds - Turn! Turn! Turn! (To Everything There Is A Season) Turn! Turn! Turn!
Hailey: Dad?
Me: Yes?
Hailey: Can you download the new (insert boy band name here) MP7's for me?
Me: Why? They aren't any good.
Hailey: But I like them Dad! Gillian has it on her Ipod!
Me: If Gillian jumped off a bridge would you?
Hailey: (Getting upset) It's only $20! Please!
Me: You already have 150 gigabytes of songs by those guys. What do you need more for?
Hailey: (Getting hysterical) PLEASE!
Me: Can't you just listen to something good like The Clash or even Death Cab? You still like Death Cab, right?
Hailey: (Crying uncontollably) I hate Death Cab! I hate all your stupid music! I hate you! (Storming off).
Me: Ok. Ok. Calm down! I'll get you the new (boy band) MP7's. Are you happy now?
Hailey: (Calming down) Yes. But I still think your music stinks.
Perhaps I should enjoy the opportunity for some calm before the impending baby storm. Or maybe I should just keep listening to the new record from Animal Collective. They are still "out there" but Feels is their most accessible record to date. Undeniably Animal Collective but with a few more pop hooks. I also love "Turn! Turn! Turn!" by The Byrds. A timeless song that remains relevant even today.
MP3 | Animal Collective - Grass Feels
MP3 | The Byrds - Turn! Turn! Turn! (To Everything There Is A Season) Turn! Turn! Turn!
Monday, September 19, 2005
Parents-to-be just don't understand -
4
Maybe I'm getting too old for this shit (maybe).
Last night the wife (7 mos. pregnant) and I went to go see her favorite band, Alkaline Trio. As cool and hip as we think we are, we really don't have a clue. The Trio played a few old songs from the Asian Man days (which made us happy) but focused mainly on their newer material as they lethargically strutted around the stage. I was (just like I thought I would be) very disappointed.
To make matters even worse, the concert was held at perhaps the worst venue I've ever been too, the UIC Pavillion, and headlined by My Chemical Romance (who I just don't understand). From where we were sitting (yes, sitting) all we could hear was echoing bass (not basslines), drums, and muffled vocals. It was irritating at best.
Maybe I'm not punk enough anymore or maybe I just have higher standards now but either way I think I have officially lost touch with the youth of today. Why do teenage girls scream whenever the lead singer addresses the crowd? What's up with moshing to songs that aren't heavy? What happened to me?
If you want a better review than this check my wife's review here.
These days punks are not listening to Muncie, Indiana's Ari Ari. They are too spazzmodical. Imagine if Karen O was possessed by Joan Jett and she did a whole bunch of meth and then fronted the Blood Brothers. That's a close approximation of Ari Ari. The young punks are also not listening to Norway's Serena Maneesh. They sound too much like the "oldies" rock of MBV and Sonic Youth or a combination of the two. Hazy melodies buried by tons and tons of guitar noise and feeback. Beautiful.
MP3 | Ari Ari - Liquored Up And At 'Em There's A New Sheriff In Town EP
MP3 | Serena Maneesh - Selina's Melodie Fountain ST
Last night the wife (7 mos. pregnant) and I went to go see her favorite band, Alkaline Trio. As cool and hip as we think we are, we really don't have a clue. The Trio played a few old songs from the Asian Man days (which made us happy) but focused mainly on their newer material as they lethargically strutted around the stage. I was (just like I thought I would be) very disappointed.
To make matters even worse, the concert was held at perhaps the worst venue I've ever been too, the UIC Pavillion, and headlined by My Chemical Romance (who I just don't understand). From where we were sitting (yes, sitting) all we could hear was echoing bass (not basslines), drums, and muffled vocals. It was irritating at best.
Maybe I'm not punk enough anymore or maybe I just have higher standards now but either way I think I have officially lost touch with the youth of today. Why do teenage girls scream whenever the lead singer addresses the crowd? What's up with moshing to songs that aren't heavy? What happened to me?
If you want a better review than this check my wife's review here.
These days punks are not listening to Muncie, Indiana's Ari Ari. They are too spazzmodical. Imagine if Karen O was possessed by Joan Jett and she did a whole bunch of meth and then fronted the Blood Brothers. That's a close approximation of Ari Ari. The young punks are also not listening to Norway's Serena Maneesh. They sound too much like the "oldies" rock of MBV and Sonic Youth or a combination of the two. Hazy melodies buried by tons and tons of guitar noise and feeback. Beautiful.
MP3 | Ari Ari - Liquored Up And At 'Em There's A New Sheriff In Town EP
MP3 | Serena Maneesh - Selina's Melodie Fountain ST
Saturday, September 17, 2005
Giving you half a biscuit -
5
Perfect music for a lazy afternoon from 310 and Bloc Party.
Canon EOS Digital Rebel, 50mm fixed, 1/30sec at f/1.8
The picture was taken this morning along the riverwalk in N-Town on a bridge spanning the river. No alterations except the color desaturation in Photoshop.
MP3 | 310 - Opposite Corners Recessional
MP3 | Bloc Party - Blue Light (Engineers Anti-Gravity Mix) Silent Alarm Remixed
Canon EOS Digital Rebel, 50mm fixed, 1/30sec at f/1.8
The picture was taken this morning along the riverwalk in N-Town on a bridge spanning the river. No alterations except the color desaturation in Photoshop.
MP3 | 310 - Opposite Corners Recessional
MP3 | Bloc Party - Blue Light (Engineers Anti-Gravity Mix) Silent Alarm Remixed
Friday, September 16, 2005
Irony is for suckers -
3
I've got to give a shout out to An Aquarium Drunkard for reminding me about this guy. It was (however) my father that introduced me to a whole bunch of great music (including this guy) during my youth.
One of these artists was singer/songwriter Steve Earle. If there isn't a "Behind The Music" special about him, there really ought to be. This guy has lived the hard life. He has hit rock bottom. It is well known that during the recording of "The Hard Way" his addiction to heroin & cocaine was spiraling out of control. Even the picture of him on the cover shows a man that is strung out and appears to have lost control. Earle was (however) still writing great songs. His lyrics tell stories of hardship and paint such vivid pictures with the few words he sings. His voice sounds honest but weary.
As I was driving home from school the other day I turned thre radio to WONC and immediately heard a blazing guitar solo pouring out of the speakers. It sounded like mid-eighties metal of some sort. I called the radio station to ask who it was and was informed that the song was off the new Bruce Dickinson (of Iron Maiden fame) album that was released in May. I must also point out that this is the exact same way I first heard The Darkness. Long live metal!
MP3 | Steve Earle - Billy Austin The Hard Way
MP3 | Bruce Dickinson - Abduction Tyranny Of Souls
One of these artists was singer/songwriter Steve Earle. If there isn't a "Behind The Music" special about him, there really ought to be. This guy has lived the hard life. He has hit rock bottom. It is well known that during the recording of "The Hard Way" his addiction to heroin & cocaine was spiraling out of control. Even the picture of him on the cover shows a man that is strung out and appears to have lost control. Earle was (however) still writing great songs. His lyrics tell stories of hardship and paint such vivid pictures with the few words he sings. His voice sounds honest but weary.
As I was driving home from school the other day I turned thre radio to WONC and immediately heard a blazing guitar solo pouring out of the speakers. It sounded like mid-eighties metal of some sort. I called the radio station to ask who it was and was informed that the song was off the new Bruce Dickinson (of Iron Maiden fame) album that was released in May. I must also point out that this is the exact same way I first heard The Darkness. Long live metal!
MP3 | Steve Earle - Billy Austin The Hard Way
MP3 | Bruce Dickinson - Abduction Tyranny Of Souls
Wednesday, September 14, 2005
You can make a difference -
9
Do you have any plans November 8-13? Hopefully I'll be attending this.
So everyone wants to make a difference, right? Well that is what War Child Music is doing. They recently released a download only album whose proceeds will benefit children that have been affected by war. This compilation includes fantastic tracks from Radiohead, Gorillaz, Kaiser Chiefs, Belle & Sebastian, The Go! Team, Bloc Party, Maximo Park, Keane, Coldplay, and Damien Rice (among others). It is a worthy cause and the music is fantastic.
I decided to post the Radiohead song in an attempt to entice you all into downloading the War Child compilatation which (by the way) is called Help: A Day In The Life. Go get this. You know you want to.
So I went biking yesterday and really enjoyed it. It was just a short little ride mostly along the path that runs along the train tracks (its bumpier than most anywhere else I can go right from my house). It gave me a chance sweat a little and clear my head. I really enjoyed it. I'm thinking about riding somewhere a little more challenging (for Chicagoland) this weekend. Maybe here or here. Any takers?
I took the wife's car to work yesterday and listened to what she had in the car. Matt Pond PA was among the choices I had. Matt Pond PA is a band and not a person. The singer/songwriter/guitar player for the band just so happens to be named Matt Pond. What a conincidence! They play some damn-fine indie-pop with great melodies and some stellar cello playing. You can pick up their albums from Altitude Records and Polyvinyl Records.
MP3 | Radiohead - I Want None Of This Help: A Day In The Life
MP3 | Matt Pond PA - Closest (Look Out) Emblems
So everyone wants to make a difference, right? Well that is what War Child Music is doing. They recently released a download only album whose proceeds will benefit children that have been affected by war. This compilation includes fantastic tracks from Radiohead, Gorillaz, Kaiser Chiefs, Belle & Sebastian, The Go! Team, Bloc Party, Maximo Park, Keane, Coldplay, and Damien Rice (among others). It is a worthy cause and the music is fantastic.
I decided to post the Radiohead song in an attempt to entice you all into downloading the War Child compilatation which (by the way) is called Help: A Day In The Life. Go get this. You know you want to.
So I went biking yesterday and really enjoyed it. It was just a short little ride mostly along the path that runs along the train tracks (its bumpier than most anywhere else I can go right from my house). It gave me a chance sweat a little and clear my head. I really enjoyed it. I'm thinking about riding somewhere a little more challenging (for Chicagoland) this weekend. Maybe here or here. Any takers?
I took the wife's car to work yesterday and listened to what she had in the car. Matt Pond PA was among the choices I had. Matt Pond PA is a band and not a person. The singer/songwriter/guitar player for the band just so happens to be named Matt Pond. What a conincidence! They play some damn-fine indie-pop with great melodies and some stellar cello playing. You can pick up their albums from Altitude Records and Polyvinyl Records.
MP3 | Radiohead - I Want None Of This Help: A Day In The Life
MP3 | Matt Pond PA - Closest (Look Out) Emblems
Tuesday, September 13, 2005
A spoonful of emo (vol. 3) -
9
I know that emo is not exclusive to the Midwest, but why then did so many of the best bands from this genre come from the nation's heartland?
I first encountered the music of Alkaline Trio in early 1997 at the Channing Murray in Urbana, IL. Now I know that most of you are saying, "They ain't no emo band," but let me assure you that at one point they almost were.
Back in the day Alkaline Trio was an amazing band. They weren't the goth rockers they are today. Instead they were just a bunch of punks from Chicago fueled by alcohol and broken hearts. Comprised of Matt Skiba (ex-Jerkwater), Glenn Porter (ex-88 Fingers Louie), and Rob Doran who was soon replaced by Dan Andriano (ex-Slapstick, Tuesday), the band seemed poised form day one to take over the Chicago punk scene. Glenn was later replaced by Mike Felumlee (ex-Smoking Popes) who was replaced by Derek Grant (ex-Suicide Machines).
The band has a bunch of EP's, 7" records, and albums with most of the early ones being released by Asian Man Records while their most recent stuff has been put out by Vagrant Records. IMHO, none of their releases can compare with their original 4-song tape and their first EP for Asian Man, For Your Lungs Only. I also think that (with the exception of possibly their latest record) each successive album they have released has been weaker than the one before. Now it might just be the old-jaded-longing-for-the-good-old-days-punk-rocker in me saying that, but it's true. I also think that Glenn was (hands down) the best drummer they have had and that their music hasn't been nearly as good since his departure.
Amy and I are going to see the Trio next week at the UIC Pavillion (they are Amy's favorite band) and I'm hoping (doubtful) that they play some older material. Even if they do I doubt that the show will as good as the ones we saw years ago.
They may not sound anything like an emo band today but there is something very emo about listening to Skiba sing, "I don't deserve this."
God's Reflex was a great (although little-known) band from the Rockford/DeKalb, Illinois area. They (sadly) put out only a handful of 7" EP's and two full-lengths but sometimes quality is more important than quantity. Their CD's came out on Johann's Face Records but all their vinyl was released in by Rebound Records/Arms Reach Recordings. They played raw emo from Chicago that combimed a healthy dose of pop melodies with punk rock snottiness. Unfortunately Gods Reflex broke up years ago but some members are now playing in The Braves.
MP3 | Alkaline Trio - 97 Marc's A Dick And Gar's A Drunk
MP3 | God's Reflex - The Summer In Between A Brief Lesson In Affection
I first encountered the music of Alkaline Trio in early 1997 at the Channing Murray in Urbana, IL. Now I know that most of you are saying, "They ain't no emo band," but let me assure you that at one point they almost were.
Back in the day Alkaline Trio was an amazing band. They weren't the goth rockers they are today. Instead they were just a bunch of punks from Chicago fueled by alcohol and broken hearts. Comprised of Matt Skiba (ex-Jerkwater), Glenn Porter (ex-88 Fingers Louie), and Rob Doran who was soon replaced by Dan Andriano (ex-Slapstick, Tuesday), the band seemed poised form day one to take over the Chicago punk scene. Glenn was later replaced by Mike Felumlee (ex-Smoking Popes) who was replaced by Derek Grant (ex-Suicide Machines).
The band has a bunch of EP's, 7" records, and albums with most of the early ones being released by Asian Man Records while their most recent stuff has been put out by Vagrant Records. IMHO, none of their releases can compare with their original 4-song tape and their first EP for Asian Man, For Your Lungs Only. I also think that (with the exception of possibly their latest record) each successive album they have released has been weaker than the one before. Now it might just be the old-jaded-longing-for-the-good-old-days-punk-rocker in me saying that, but it's true. I also think that Glenn was (hands down) the best drummer they have had and that their music hasn't been nearly as good since his departure.
Amy and I are going to see the Trio next week at the UIC Pavillion (they are Amy's favorite band) and I'm hoping (doubtful) that they play some older material. Even if they do I doubt that the show will as good as the ones we saw years ago.
They may not sound anything like an emo band today but there is something very emo about listening to Skiba sing, "I don't deserve this."
God's Reflex was a great (although little-known) band from the Rockford/DeKalb, Illinois area. They (sadly) put out only a handful of 7" EP's and two full-lengths but sometimes quality is more important than quantity. Their CD's came out on Johann's Face Records but all their vinyl was released in by Rebound Records/Arms Reach Recordings. They played raw emo from Chicago that combimed a healthy dose of pop melodies with punk rock snottiness. Unfortunately Gods Reflex broke up years ago but some members are now playing in The Braves.
MP3 | Alkaline Trio - 97 Marc's A Dick And Gar's A Drunk
MP3 | God's Reflex - The Summer In Between A Brief Lesson In Affection
Sunday, September 11, 2005
Let's meet on the lawn -
2
Okay. Okay.I know I'm a little late on this but I've been busy and haven't been keeping up with the Bloggses lately.
Favorites of mine (and hopefully yours) Tv On The Radio recently recorded a song in respone to those affected by Huricane Katrina. You can download it from the Touch & Go Records website or here (where I also have it streaming). It is a powerful song with some pretty strong lyrics. If you'd like to make a donation to the relief effort, you can do it here.
"what if all the fathers and the sons
went marching with their guns
drawn on washington.
that would seal the deal,
show if it was real,
this supposed freedom."
Now to brighten the mood, I also give you some dancing music from Chicago's own Watchers. Their tunes are their a unique mix of dance-funk, post-rock, no wave, dub, that recalls (at times) Sandinista-era Clash.
I'm also way late on the news of the annual hardcore festival, Hellfest, being cancelled. From what I understand they got fucked over by the venue. You can read about it and see some of the documents relating to it here. New Jersey's Lifetime (one of my favorite bands ever) was scheduled to play a reunion show at Hellfest, but in the wake of it's cancellation, played a total of three reunion shows in both Jersey and Philadelphia. While I was (unfortunately) unable to attend any of these shows, I was able to download a video of one of them. You can download it here. It sure brings back the memories.
MP3 | TV On The Radio - Dry Drunk Emperor Previously Unreleased
MP3 | Watchers - Badge Said Go Dunes Phase EP
Favorites of mine (and hopefully yours) Tv On The Radio recently recorded a song in respone to those affected by Huricane Katrina. You can download it from the Touch & Go Records website or here (where I also have it streaming). It is a powerful song with some pretty strong lyrics. If you'd like to make a donation to the relief effort, you can do it here.
"what if all the fathers and the sons
went marching with their guns
drawn on washington.
that would seal the deal,
show if it was real,
this supposed freedom."
Now to brighten the mood, I also give you some dancing music from Chicago's own Watchers. Their tunes are their a unique mix of dance-funk, post-rock, no wave, dub, that recalls (at times) Sandinista-era Clash.
I'm also way late on the news of the annual hardcore festival, Hellfest, being cancelled. From what I understand they got fucked over by the venue. You can read about it and see some of the documents relating to it here. New Jersey's Lifetime (one of my favorite bands ever) was scheduled to play a reunion show at Hellfest, but in the wake of it's cancellation, played a total of three reunion shows in both Jersey and Philadelphia. While I was (unfortunately) unable to attend any of these shows, I was able to download a video of one of them. You can download it here. It sure brings back the memories.
MP3 | TV On The Radio - Dry Drunk Emperor Previously Unreleased
MP3 | Watchers - Badge Said Go Dunes Phase EP
Saturday, September 10, 2005
Last night a DJ saved my life -
3
Sorry I haven't been around much this week bloggers. School has been keeping me really busy. I'll try not to let it happen again (soon that is).
Here is some music from 90 Day Men and Paris Texas. 90 Day Men play indie-piano-post-rock that sounds right at home in the windy city. I would categorize (if I had to) Madison, Wisconsin's PTX as nu-emo (you heard it here first). They rock. Their hooks are infectious. I would hesitate to lump them in with most of the crap that gets passed off as emo these days because there is something about this band that makes 'em a little different (and better than most).
More words here later...
MP3 | 90 Day Men - Last Night A DJ Saved My Life To Everybody
MP3 | Paris Texas - Gemini Like You Like An Arsonist
Here is some music from 90 Day Men and Paris Texas. 90 Day Men play indie-piano-post-rock that sounds right at home in the windy city. I would categorize (if I had to) Madison, Wisconsin's PTX as nu-emo (you heard it here first). They rock. Their hooks are infectious. I would hesitate to lump them in with most of the crap that gets passed off as emo these days because there is something about this band that makes 'em a little different (and better than most).
More words here later...
MP3 | 90 Day Men - Last Night A DJ Saved My Life To Everybody
MP3 | Paris Texas - Gemini Like You Like An Arsonist
Wednesday, September 07, 2005
Racing the train to the tracks -
4
"On a dark suburban road I can hear the wheels in my head slowly grinding to a halt."
It is amazing how simple and wonderful life can be if you just let it. This modern world and everything that goes along with it can be overly complicated and stressful much of the time. I just want a simpler place that moves at a slower pace. To be able to enjoy. To be able to relax. "All in due time," I tell myself.
I first read about The Jim Yoshii Pile-Up a few years ago in Copper Press. Perhaps the awful name turned me off, but I never really pursued them any further. My interest was sparked again when I recently read about them over at Gorilla vs. Bear and liked what I heard. Their new record "Picks Us Apart" (out on Absolutely Kosher) is fantastic. You should all rush out and buy it immediately.
I know that a lot of people really didn't like The Dillinger Escape Plan's latest album "Miss Machine," but I'm really not sure what record they have been listening to. While different than their previous material, "Miss Machine" is still every bit as good. These east coast metal-core kings may have softened (sorta) their sound a bit, added a new vocalist, and even added some hints of melody, but they are still punishing, technical, and downright heavy.
MP3 | The Jim Yoshii Pile-Up - A Toast To The Happy Couple Picks Us Apart
MP3 | The Dillinger Escape Plan - Setting Fire To Sleeping Giants Miss Machine
It is amazing how simple and wonderful life can be if you just let it. This modern world and everything that goes along with it can be overly complicated and stressful much of the time. I just want a simpler place that moves at a slower pace. To be able to enjoy. To be able to relax. "All in due time," I tell myself.
I first read about The Jim Yoshii Pile-Up a few years ago in Copper Press. Perhaps the awful name turned me off, but I never really pursued them any further. My interest was sparked again when I recently read about them over at Gorilla vs. Bear and liked what I heard. Their new record "Picks Us Apart" (out on Absolutely Kosher) is fantastic. You should all rush out and buy it immediately.
I know that a lot of people really didn't like The Dillinger Escape Plan's latest album "Miss Machine," but I'm really not sure what record they have been listening to. While different than their previous material, "Miss Machine" is still every bit as good. These east coast metal-core kings may have softened (sorta) their sound a bit, added a new vocalist, and even added some hints of melody, but they are still punishing, technical, and downright heavy.
MP3 | The Jim Yoshii Pile-Up - A Toast To The Happy Couple Picks Us Apart
MP3 | The Dillinger Escape Plan - Setting Fire To Sleeping Giants Miss Machine
Tuesday, September 06, 2005
Nature is smarter than you are -
16
I hope everyone had a great Labor Day weekend. I sure did. The Allegheny Mtns. of East-Central Pennsylvania are so beautiful. I love going back to spend time there. I even played some horseshoes with Kenny and Danny and I have come to the conclusion that I suck.
Canon EOS Digital Rebel, 50mm fixed, 1/1000sec at f/1.8
1. I was going to post last night, but Comcast had an "outage" in our area for most of the evening. Oh well.
2. For long car trips, audiobooks are amazing. On the drive home from the big PA we listened to most of "Fast Food Nation" by Eric Schlosser until the wife got too grossed out to listen further. Anyone who eats fast food on a regular basis should read/listen to this book. It might just change the way many of them think of fast food.
3. A few days ago I had a post titled Walking on sunshine. I was so impressed by my own cleverness that it disappointed me that no one caught on. As crude and inappropriate as it is, that is the title of an 80's song by Katrina and the Waves. Sorry.
I'm not going to comment much on the bands I'm posting today. Kings of Convenience are a pop band from Norway. They are good. The Heavenly States are a bit harder to describe. Sometimes garage rock and sometimes very indie/punk-y. We listened to this on our way to PA last Friday and their entire new album "Black Comet" is amazing. Even Amy likes this one. You will too.
MP3 | The Heavenly States - Look And Listen Black Comet
MP3 | Kings Of Convenience - Homesick Riot On An Empty Street
Canon EOS Digital Rebel, 50mm fixed, 1/1000sec at f/1.8
1. I was going to post last night, but Comcast had an "outage" in our area for most of the evening. Oh well.
2. For long car trips, audiobooks are amazing. On the drive home from the big PA we listened to most of "Fast Food Nation" by Eric Schlosser until the wife got too grossed out to listen further. Anyone who eats fast food on a regular basis should read/listen to this book. It might just change the way many of them think of fast food.
3. A few days ago I had a post titled Walking on sunshine. I was so impressed by my own cleverness that it disappointed me that no one caught on. As crude and inappropriate as it is, that is the title of an 80's song by Katrina and the Waves. Sorry.
I'm not going to comment much on the bands I'm posting today. Kings of Convenience are a pop band from Norway. They are good. The Heavenly States are a bit harder to describe. Sometimes garage rock and sometimes very indie/punk-y. We listened to this on our way to PA last Friday and their entire new album "Black Comet" is amazing. Even Amy likes this one. You will too.
MP3 | The Heavenly States - Look And Listen Black Comet
MP3 | Kings Of Convenience - Homesick Riot On An Empty Street
Friday, September 02, 2005
Pennsylvania here we come -
2
Labor day weekend is upon us all and that means the unofficial end to summer for most of us. Amy and I drove back to her hometown for the long weekend despite the high price of gas.
I'll be back with a more music for y'all on Tuesday (or maybe late on Monday if 'yr lucky!) I've posted some great new music from Clor and Great Lake Swimmers for your enjoyment this holiday weekend. Clor is a bit more upbeat and spazzy while Great Lake Swimmers are (much) more mellow and haunting. Pick your poison. Listen. Enjoy.
MP3 | Clor - Stuck In A Tight Spot ST
MP3 | Great Lake Swimmers - Moving Pictures Silent Films ST
I'll be back with a more music for y'all on Tuesday (or maybe late on Monday if 'yr lucky!) I've posted some great new music from Clor and Great Lake Swimmers for your enjoyment this holiday weekend. Clor is a bit more upbeat and spazzy while Great Lake Swimmers are (much) more mellow and haunting. Pick your poison. Listen. Enjoy.
MP3 | Clor - Stuck In A Tight Spot ST
MP3 | Great Lake Swimmers - Moving Pictures Silent Films ST
Thursday, September 01, 2005
Walking on sunshine -
7
80% of New Orleans is underwater. Hundreds are dead. Thousands are missing and stranded. Entire towns in Mississippi and Louisiana have been wiped clean off the map. There is widespread looting and violence. Rescue helicopters are being shot at.
It has been said that it will take at least 3 months to "dry out" New Orleans before any real cleanup effort can even begin. I don't have as much time as some to dig around the internet (at work) for the latest facts, figures, and news reports but I know that most of that region is totally fucked.
I hate to say it folks, but not only has hurricane Katrina affected the lives of thousands of people in New Orleans and along the gulf coast, but it has (or soon will) afftected all of ours as well. Gas prices went through the roof yesterday (at least here in Chicagoland). The highest I've seen is $3.31/gal for regular unleaded, and to think that only seven short years ago (in Indianapolis) I paid $0.79/gal. There are reports of gas shortages and long lines at some stations as well. This is going to get a lot worse. Katrina is going to have a huge impact on our nation's economy before all is said and done.
I know its not going to solve all our problems or restore New Orleans, but what this country needs to do is reduce its dependance on oil and speed up the development of automobiles with alternate fuel sources. Gas/electric hybrids are fine and well, but we need to do more. There is a guy who has developed an engine that runs on water, but perfecting that technology will take some time. Right now biodiesel presents a great opportunity. It is a cleaner burning fuel than conventional gasoline and is a renewable source of energy.
You want to create jobs? Someone has to cultivate and process the materials used to make bio diesel. That sounds like a good opportunity to me.
MP3 | Stereolab - Miss Modular Dots & Loops
MP3 | Coldplay - Fix You X & Y
It has been said that it will take at least 3 months to "dry out" New Orleans before any real cleanup effort can even begin. I don't have as much time as some to dig around the internet (at work) for the latest facts, figures, and news reports but I know that most of that region is totally fucked.
I hate to say it folks, but not only has hurricane Katrina affected the lives of thousands of people in New Orleans and along the gulf coast, but it has (or soon will) afftected all of ours as well. Gas prices went through the roof yesterday (at least here in Chicagoland). The highest I've seen is $3.31/gal for regular unleaded, and to think that only seven short years ago (in Indianapolis) I paid $0.79/gal. There are reports of gas shortages and long lines at some stations as well. This is going to get a lot worse. Katrina is going to have a huge impact on our nation's economy before all is said and done.
I know its not going to solve all our problems or restore New Orleans, but what this country needs to do is reduce its dependance on oil and speed up the development of automobiles with alternate fuel sources. Gas/electric hybrids are fine and well, but we need to do more. There is a guy who has developed an engine that runs on water, but perfecting that technology will take some time. Right now biodiesel presents a great opportunity. It is a cleaner burning fuel than conventional gasoline and is a renewable source of energy.
You want to create jobs? Someone has to cultivate and process the materials used to make bio diesel. That sounds like a good opportunity to me.
MP3 | Stereolab - Miss Modular Dots & Loops
MP3 | Coldplay - Fix You X & Y
