Yesterday I got a package in the mail which contained the mix discs that were put together by Ryan from Muzzle Of Bees. I was familiar with most of the artists, but was introduced to a few that I will soon share with all of you. Well done.
A few days ago I got an email that began, “This is Brian from an NYC based band called Beat Radio.” While I’m a little late with this one (I usually am) I think they deserve some praise. Beat Radio is using technology to their advantage. News of the “next big thing” spreads like wildfire on MP3 blogs and the internet and by promoting themselves to everyone that might be interested they are getting their name out. DIY + technology + talent = Good things to come. While they aren’t breaking a lot of new ground, their upbeat indie rock definitely caught my ears.
I listened to some of their stuff last night and they immediately reminded me of another band that (at the time) I couldn’t place. A wonderful mix of jangly but slightly fuzzed-out guitars and wavering vocals that are backed by good heart-felt lyrics. After much listening (especially to “Treetops”) I finally figured out who they reminded me of: The Weakerthans. There is a hint of Americana that bleeds through their songs and makes them feel warm and familiar. When their upcoming EP is released, I suggest you check it out.
The Living Blue used to be called The Blackouts. They put out a few records on Chris Broach’s (of Braid and Firebird fame) Lucid Records, and have a new one out today on Minty Fresh Records. They play rock-and-roll music with none of the hype or image of bands like the Strokes. These guys are the real deal.
Hailing from the same cornfields of central Illinois that also spawned the likes of Braid, Hum, Poster Children, Wolfie, and more. Joe, Mark, and original bassist Ben, were also all members of the short-lived ska-punk band Jumpsuit Robbie that played around Champaign, IL from about 1996-1998. They were friends of mine as well.
MP3 | Beat Radio – Treetops Ecstatic EP
MP3 | The Living Blue – Tell Me Leza Fire, Blood, Water
I remember when the Blackouts, or rather the Living Blue, were ‘the next big thing’. That was years ago, and I’m surprised they’ve not bade it bigger given their talent and how much they had their shit together and wanted to be big (that’s a big sloppy bad sentence).
We (xHIKEx) played with them in a lot of basements. They were definitely a good time. Good drinkers too.
I want to know whatever happened to Creature. Eric, I still have a JSR tape if you ever get nostalgic.
Andy – I think I have that same tape. Why don’t you get on blogger? Huh?
Kurt – Good drinkers is always good in my book!!
im extremely disappointed that there hasn’t been a xhikex song posted yet. for shame. =(