Tonight Let's Dance

moved

2006-03-03T12:06:00.000-08:00

If you're still interested, I've "teamed up" with Lizzy at Come Pick Me Up. I'll be posting on that blog every now and then, so check that out. I feel as though I'm not ready to get back into the frequent blogging cycle, thus I'm taking it easy and writing for them for a bit.

I'll return in full force soon enough though. I hope you guys won't become too restless.

down

2006-02-09T08:31:00.000-08:00

So apparently my hosting site where I upload all the mp3s has suspended the account (I suppose I was using too much bandwidth). I'm sorry if you visited the blog and the download links were inactive. I don't have any other alternative to host songs, and I do not want to refer back to megaupload or yousendit. If you have unlimited bandwidth or something to offer, drop me a line.

Until I can find something stable I'm going to give this blog a break.

aloha, cat power, and mail

2006-02-06T23:02:00.000-08:00

Aloha's new record Some Echoes (scheduled to be released in April) defines what indie pop should sound and feel like. They get me fired up and excited over music again, something that is really rare for me. Almost every aspect of the band (the drumming, the keyboards, the basslines, the guitars, the vocals/lyrics) renews indie rock. The melodies just get me and it's infectious. This will definitely be on rotation for the next coming weeks, I guarentee it.

Aloha started in 1997, in the town Bowling Green, Ohio. Since then they have released various albums/EP, the more notable one among them being their last full-length Here Comes Everyone. Cale Parks, the drummer, is also in both Cex and Joan Of Arc.

I recommend picking up this album when it hits shelves. I'm almost positive that I'll still be rocking out to it.

+ Featured songs; "Big Morning" - download here, "Weekend" - download here

+ Featured video; "Summer Away" - view here

Pitchfork has reported that Cat Power has dropped off her US Tour. Following dates have been confirmed for cancellation:

2/11 Memphis, TN
2/14 New York, NY
2/18 Boston, MA
2/20 Seattle, WA
2/22 Los Angeles, CA
2/23 San Francisco, CA
2/24 San Francisco, CA
2/26 Chicago, IL
3/15 Austin, TX

I was trying to see her through the two days she was in SF, but apparently due to "health" reasons, it's a no go. Hopefully all is well, and I'll be sure to catch her next time around.

Oh, and I've been getting a lot of CDs in the mail lately. There are some goodies here and I'm bound to put up some mp3s to share. If you're in a band and want to be considered for band review or feature, contact me. I'll try and atleast post a song or two, and include a little info on bands that get at me.

new rotation

2006-02-05T13:30:00.000-08:00

When I first started the blog, I had every intention of updating my "rotation" sidebar every month or so. Well, it's been about three months since then, so I decided to post what I really have been listening to as of late. I've chose a song from each release and posted their mp3s for you to sample. If you enjoy, I really recommend purchasing the band's album; most of these are essential and nice to have in your collection.

The Thrills - Let's Bottle Bohemia: I never really paid attention to this band up until recently, and this album surprises me. It has that really nice California pop feel.

+ Featured song; "Not For All The Love In The World" - download here

The Microphones - The Glow, Part 2: Some of the songs have a really dark tone to them, but a lot of it is really mellow. It's quite a masterpiece.

+ Featured song; "The Glow Pt. 2" - download here

M83 - Before The Dawn Heals Us: Oh. My. God. This is probably my favorite release of 2005.

+ Featured song; "*" - download here

Destroyer - Your Blues: I'm in love with Daniel Bajar. This album is classic, every song is near perfection. Just for the fact that it reminds me of Bowie, I'll love them forever.

+ Featured song; "New Ways Of Living" - download here

The Zombies - Absolutely The Best: I remember growing up and my parents playing them a lot. I never really appreciated them at the time, but now they've left a big impression on me. Amazing band.

+ Featured song; "The Way I Feel Inside" - download here

Voxtrot - Raised By Wolves EP & Misc Songs: This band will be huge. Just wait.

+ Featured song; "Mothers, Sisters, Daughters And Wives" - download here

Ugly Casanova - Sharpen Your Teeth: Isaac Brock's other musical endeavor. Though I doubt that the band will release another record, this one was a nice teaser. It'll keep me occupied while I wait for the new MM record (I've heard that Brock is playing with Johnny Marr?).

+ Featured song; "Cat Faces" - download here

Tapes 'N Tapes - The Loon: I'm a little late on this one, I just never really caught on to the hype that a lot of bloggers surrounded them with. Good band.

+ Featured song; "Insistor" - download here

Bob Dylan - Highway 61 Revisited: This man is such a badass.

+ Featured song; "Queen Jane Approximately" - download here

the stills

2006-02-04T02:35:00.000-08:00

I'm greatly anticipating The Stills' Without Feathers album that comes out in May/April. Though The Killers' Brandon Flowers thinks otherwise ("... bands like The Stills bother me because they're all style and no substance." - link), I think that The Stills is one of the more memorable and solid indie pop bands out today.

Since I've been into the Radio CBC 3 Sessions stuff recently, here's one of The Stills. I got the featured download off of ~~a YSI on some blog. I don't remember from where (I'd actually really like to credit/thank them), but it was no more than a week ago or two ago~~ I (Heart) Music. Anyways, the "Killer Bees" acoustic rendition is superb.

Tracklisting:
01. Lola Stars And Stripes (3:51) - (download)
02. Gender Bomb (4:08) - (download)
03. Animals And Insects (4:03) - (download)
04. Killer Bees (acoustic) (4:52) - (download)
05. Ready For It (6:00) - (download)

or download the whole thing here (.rar)

destroyer

2006-02-03T00:03:00.000-08:00

I've already listened to Destroyer's new album Destroyer's Rubies and I must say I'm impressed. I've always dug Daniel Bajar's vocal style, if it be through The New Pornographers or Destroyer.

Anyways, here's a CBC Radio Session. I also threw in some new songs off of Destroyer's Rubies. It'll hold you off until the new album drops February 21st.

Tracklisting:
01. New Ways Of Living (3:15) - (download)
02. Don't Become The Thing You Hated (2:54) - (download)
03. The Music Lovers (4:30) - (download)
04. An Actor's Revenge (2:34) - (download)
05. Notorious Lightning (6:45) - (download)
06. Certain Things You Ought To Know (3:43) - (download)

or download the whole thing here (.rar)

+ Featured downloads; "Rubies" - download here, "European Oils" - download here

add Destroyer on myspace, they don't have many friends.

the best of black jazz records (1971-1976)

2006-02-02T10:00:00.000-08:00

I apologize for not posting everyday like I used to. School has caught up with me and I've been focusing on doing design work, as well as making music. Everything is just hectic.

I've been listening to a lot of jazz records lately. I actually nabbed this off of indietorrents two or three days ago and I can't stop playing it. It totally soothes me while walking to the bus stop or printing something in my silk-screening class.

So I've decided to upload the whole thing for everyone to enjoy. Sharing is caring.

»The Best Of Black Jazz Records (1971 - 1976)
Tracklisting:
01. The Awakening - Mode For D.D. (download)
02. Doug Carn - Higher Ground (download)
03. Calvin Keys - Aunt Lovey (download)
04. Roland Haynes - Eglise (download)
05. The Awakening - Slinky (download)
06. Walter Bishop Jnr. - Coral Keys (download)
07. Rudolph Johnson - Diswa (download)
08. Henry Franklin - Blue Lights (download)
09. Kellee Patterson - Maiden Voyage (download)
10. Chester Thompson - Powerhouse (download)
11. The Awakening - March On (download)
12. Walter Bishop Jnr. - Soul Village (download)
13. Rudolph Johnson - The Highest Pleasure (download)

or download the whole thing here (.rar)

little discoveries

2006-01-30T23:19:00.000-08:00

Well, Santa Cruz was amazing. I met a lot of rad folks out there and good times were shared over alcohol.

I had a lot of time on my hands as I took the Greyhound out from San Francisco to Santa Cruz. So my friend and I frentically traded iPods and searched through each other's library. Here's a couple of songs that we had among our iPods that I never really listened to, but now appreciate.

Fellini - "Rock Europeu" (download)
I had this downloaded from some random blog. I don't know why I hadn't listened to it thoroughly before, but now I'm glad that I have. My friend was initially drawn by it because of the band's name (named after the famous film-maker). To me, this song sounds like the spawn of The Clash and New Order. Can anyone direct me to the band's website or something? I've been googling for hours.

The Rinse - "Rollerskating" (download)
I absolutely love this.

Modest Mouse - "Ocean Breathes Salty" (download)
My friend had their latest album on his iPod. Oh god, I almost forget how good this album is. This and the "Float On" single are gold.

thunderbirds are now!

2006-01-26T02:29:00.000-08:00

Here's a little treat for you guys before I head out. I planned on posting about Thunderbirds Are Now! when I first started this blog. I mildly enjoyed their full-length, Justamustache when I heard it earlier last year and found it somewhat noteworthy. The album, in part had some really solid songs, but for some reason, as a whole, it just didn't do it for me. It's been awhile since I have listened to it thoroughly, so I'm somewhat biased.

Anyways, I came across the band's Necks EP and it totally changed my perspective on the band. Maybe it's the fact that it's five jolting tunes one after another, and it keeps me lingering me for more. There's just some element of excitment in this band that I want to embrace. From what I hear, they put on one hell of a show.

I've posted four tracks off of the EP (there's six songs total on it, but one of them is just an instrumental intro, so you're essentially only missing out on the last track).

+ Featured downloads; "Surrounded By Skanks" - download here, "Bodies Adjust" - download here, "...& The Chocolate Moustache" - download here, "(Patrick Dempsey Remix) Pink Motorcycle Helmet" - download here

If you haven't heard Justamustache, there's a full stream on their website.

won't be here

2006-01-25T01:21:00.000-08:00

This week is turning out really well; I was able to add a silk-screening class to my schedule, and I've been having an enjoyable time at school. I'm also heading to Santa Cruz for the weekend with a couple of my mates, which I'm surely excited for.

Anyways, I won't be here during that time, and seeing as I am swamped with work and such, I've decided to post another bundle of songs for you guys to enjoy. I've been sort of on a punk/hardcore fixation as of recently, as well as some mellow stuff.

» The Red Light Sting - "...And Then I Grew Pubes" (download here)
At one point was I was totally infatuated with this band. A girl that plays synth? Crazy breakdowns? shiiiiiiiiiiiiiit. They did an old split EP with Hot Hot Heat (when the band was actually screamo, consisted of only an organ, bass, and drums) that I recommend highly. For fans of Blood Brothers.

» Hot Cross - "Finger Redux" (download here)
One of the first of many Level-Plane bands I really got into. Derived from members of Saetia (probably the most notable screamo band of all time), Hot Cross is on top of their game. A little known fact is that the drummer (which was also the drummer for Saetia) was one of the original members of Interpol.

» Faunts - "Memories Of Places We've Never Been" (download here)
How I forgot to put this on my top ten songs of 2005 is beyond me. Seriously, I love this song. It's so mellow.

» Mighty Six Ninety - "Keeping You In Mind" (download here)
All I can say is thanks Lizzy.

» Nico - "These Days" (download here)
As I kept playing Sparrow House's "When I Am Gone", the intro guitar/melody reminded me of another song I had heard once before. I popped in my Royal Tenenbaums soundtrack, and there it was.

» Of Montreal - "Advice From A Divorced Gentlemen To His Bachelor Friend Considering Marriage" (download here)
My first Of Montreal song I had ever heard. I bought Gay Parade before Sundalandic Twins and I can honestly say that I like/appreciate Gay Parade much much more. It's got a jazzy feel to it, and despite the cheesy lyrical content, I like it.

» Suburban Kids With Biblical Names - "Loop Duplicate My Heart" (download here)
LOL OMG WTF. This song is dorky but I enjoy furiously.

» Ten In The Swear Jar - "Hot Karl" (download here)
Pre-Xiu Xiu album. This is the second track I believe on the record. The drum build-up makes me nod my head.

» Black Eyes - "Deformative" (download here)
While this band only lived a short life (2001 - 2004), they put out two great records. They were signed onto Dischord Records, along with labelmates Q And Not U. I'd say they are on the same boat in terms of music.

pretty girls make graves

2006-01-23T13:58:00.000-08:00

I saw Pretty Girls Make Graves play about three years ago on the UC Santa Cruz campus. I hadn't heard of them before that, so I didn't know what to expect. Being the little fourteen year old kid I was, I had virgin ears to such music. It was a free show held by the local radio station and to my surprise had a big draw.

I think this band was a major influence for me and made a big impact to my musical taste shift. Andrea Zollo just has an amazing voice. It really fits the mood and persona the band is trying to emit.

I just recently got a hold of Elan Vital and I'm really disappointed. Who knows, maybe it'll grow on me, but the first listen through I'm not enthusiastic over it. Maybe I'm just too fond of New Romance and Is It Broken Doctor?.

They are playing a free show in Berkeley on February 14th. I'll be there.

+ Featured songs; "Wildcat" - download here, "Speakers Push The Air" - download here, "Chemical, Chemical" - download here

+ Featured video; "All Medicated Genuises" - view here

In other news, Gorilla vs. Bear posted a song from Sparrow House (solo Voxtrot), which I highly recommend. I've been playing it on repeat all day.

editors

2006-01-18T14:16:00.000-08:00

I'm pretty sure a lot of you guys listened to the album The Back Room this year. In my opinion, it was one of the years best. Often compared to Interpol, Joy Division, The Smiths and the like, Editors are among my favorite discoveries of 2005. What seperates Editors from the others is the emotionally driven songs. The first track off the album, "Lights" just hooks you in the first few seconds. I find myself holding my breath when the opening vocals come in.

Anyways, I watched their Morning Becomes Eclectic performance last night and it totally got me hyped up. Why may you ask? Because they are performing at Popscene (which is a local indie dance venue in San Francisco) tomorrow night. I might just round up some fellow friends to go see that. If you're attending, please say hi if you see me.

+ Featured songs; "Lights" - download here, "Camera" - download here

+ Featured video; Morning Becomes Eclectic performance - view here

get him eat him

2006-01-15T13:01:00.000-08:00

Ever since I got Get Him Eat Him's new EP Do As I Tell You, I haven't stopped playing it. This shit is good powerpop indie, something I rarely come across. Matt Lemay, the band's guitarist, used to write reviews for Pitchfork, so I'm not surprised. He has good tastes from what I've read.

The EP is currently out of stock online (see here), but I'm pretty sure the band will have copies on tour;

1/15 Dallas, TX - The Cavern
1/16 Oklahoma City, OK - The Conservatory
1/17 Omaha, NE - O'Leavers
1/18 Chicago, IL - Schuba's
1/19 Dayton, OH - Elbo's
1/20 Columbus, OH - Andyman's Treehouse
1/21 Pittsburgh, PA - Wizard Hollow

These are their remaining dates and I highly advise you to go out and see them. They unfortunately are nowhere near California, so I'm not lucky to catch them.

+ Featured songs; "Exposure" - download here, "The Coronation Show" - download here

fatal flying guilloteens

2006-01-14T12:37:00.000-08:00

Fatal Flying Guilloteens, who recently signed to French Kiss Records (Ex-Models, The Hold Steady, Les Savy Fav), have caught my attention this week. Based in Houston, Texas, the spazz punk/hardcore band are quite reminiscent of 31g Records material. They remind me of a mix between The Red Light Sting and The Plot To Blow Up The Eiffel Tower; crazy, yet melodic, incoherent, but harmonious. If you talked to me six months ago about this genre, you'd know I was simply nuts over it.

Think harsh and intense rhythm, jarring guitars, and furious vocals (similar to Hot Rod Todd of Le Shok).

+ Featured songs; "10 Degrees Below Fucking" - download here, "Call The Draw" - download here

Add/Visit them on myspace.

random songs, hiatus

2006-01-08T20:26:00.000-08:00

This week is going to be quite hectic for me, so I've decided to take a break from blogging. I'm currently looking for a job so I can possibly move to the city in the summer/fall. Plus, I still have a lot of footage to upload and edit, which I should have gotten around to earlier. Tonight Let's Dance will be on hiatus until I finish my priorities.

So anyhow, I'm prematurely ending the electro/dance features this week. I've upload a little mix for you guys; just random dancing/upbeat tunes. I hope you guys enjoy it.

» Moving Units - "Submission" (song)
» Numbers - "Driving Song (Dat Politics Rendition)" (song)
» Electric Light Orchestra - "Mr. Blue Sky" (song)
» The Faint - "I Disappear" (song)
» M83 - "Fields, Shorelines And Hunters" (song)
» The Cure - "Let's Go To Bed" (song)
» Evelyn "Champagne" King - "Shame" (song)
» Shout Out Louds - "The Comeback (Big Slippa Ratatat Remix)" (song)
» Test Icicles - "Sharks" (song)

Download the whole thing here

ratatat

2006-01-07T00:00:00.000-08:00

The first time I heard "Seven Years" I was fucking blown. At the time, I wasn't too exposed to dance melodies and electronic music like that and listening to that song made me yearn for more. I immediately picked up their self-titled and was persuaded that this band possessed something special, something amazing.

Ratatat consists of Mike Stroud and Evan Mast. Together, this New York duo write and record upbeat instrumental music. Stuffed with synthesizers and psychedelic guitar harmonies, Ratatat will put you in a trance. The group also does remixes of other bands/artists' songs, as heard on their Ratatat Remixes album. I'm going to post The Shout Out Louds' remix at the end of the week, so stay alert.

+ Featured songs; "Seven Years" - download here, "Desert Eagle" - download here, "Keep 'Em High (Kanye West Remix)" - download here

arctic monkeys tour dates

2006-01-06T19:10:00.000-08:00

The Arctic Monkeys are doing a two week tour in the US in support of the release of Whatever People Say I Am, That's What I'm Not due out on February 21st.

3/13 San Francisco, CA - Great American Music Hall
3/15 Los Angeles, CA - Henry Fonda Theatre
3/17 Austin, TX - La Zona Rosa
3/18 Chicago, IL - The Metro
3/21 Toronto, Ontario - Phoenix Concert Theatre
3/22 Montreal, Quebec - La Sala Rossa
3/23 Boston, MA - Paradise Rock Club
3/25 New York, NY - Webster Hall
3/26 Philadelphia, PA - First Unitarian Church
3/27 Washington, DC - 9:30 Club
3/29 Seattle, WA - Crocodile Café

If you haven't heard any of their material I'm featuring two of their songs. You can preview more on their myspace.

+ Featured songs; "Scummy" (aka "When The Sun Goes Down") - download here, "Dancing Shoes" - download here

+ Featured videos; "Bet You Look Good On The Dancefloor" - view here, Morning Becomes Eclectic performance - view here

vhs or beta

2006-01-06T07:30:00.000-08:00

I introduce you to VHS or Beta. Hailing from Louisville, Kentucky, this quartet supplies music to move to. This band brought you Night On Fire in 2004, which since then has been on heavy rotation for me. I honestly listen to this album atleast once a week.

They revive the eighties retro dance rock and get creative with it. Listening to Night On Fire can put me through a lot of moods, I often feel energetic and sometimes euphoric during the instrumentals.

I uploaded "Night On Fire" and my personal favorite "The Melting Moon". Also, I highly suggest watching their radio performance at Morning Becomes Eclectic. It has a really good interview with the band about halfway through that gives you great detail about the Louisville scene and the history of VHS or Beta.

+ Featured songs; "Night On Fire" - download here, "The Melting Moon" - download here

+ Featured videos; "Night On Fire" - view here, Morning Becomes Eclectic performance - view here

(p.s., Rickenbacker basses are beautiful)

new order

2006-01-05T03:13:00.000-08:00

After watching that trailer for Marie Antoinette I had that "Age Of Consent" song stuck in my head for a good twenty minutes. I can't help but hum the melody to it, it's contagious. So I finally popped in my (The Best Of) New Order CD to help ease my compulsive babble.

It then hit me when I got to track six that I should feature this band for this week's theme. Track six on (The Best Of) New Order is "Bizarre Love Triangle", which is the ultimate indie dance song. The song, which was originally released in 1986, is known to be one of New Order's greatest singles (among many).

So I took the liberty of uploading it for your listening pleasure (if you haven't heard it already obviously, though I'm going to assume/hope that most of you guys already have). As a bonus, I've posted a cover of the song done by Frente!.

+ Featured songs; "Bizarre Love Triangle" - download here, "Bizarre Love Triangle (Frente! Cover)" - download here

marie antoinette

2006-01-05T01:54:00.000-08:00

A friend sent me a link to the trailer for the new Sofia Coppola flick, Marie Antoinette. It stars Kirsten Dunst and Jason Schwartzman, and is set in the 18th-century. After watching the trailer, I'm pretty intrigued. Sofia Coppola's Lost In Translation was splendid and I am really looking forward to this. And the fact that New Order's "Age Of Consent" is being used as background music brings a huge smile to my face.

Watch the trailer here. Thoughts?

mstrkrft & britney spears

2006-01-04T17:13:00.000-08:00

So I get this e-mail from The Prettiest Pony informing me of some new MSTRKRFT material that has leaked, which is perfect because I planned to feature them sometime this week. Well, looks like I'm doing it today. MSTRKRFT is the brainchild of Jesse Keeler from Death From Above 1979 and Al-P from Girls Are Short. Together the two make some of the sassiest music ever. You've probably already heard them through various remixes (Metric's "Monster Hospital", Bloc Party's "Two More Years", etc). They are currently working on a Test Icicles remix, as well as one for The Gossip; both of which I'm stoked for. Visit their myspace to preview more.

+ Featured songs; "Easy Love" and "Paris (Unfinished)" - go here, "Little Girl (MSTRKRFT Edition)" - download here

Also, they posted a Britney Spears demo that DFA produced and mixed, but didn't want out (supposedly this was done in 2003 according to these people). It reportedly was "too hip". You be the judge and listen for yourself; Britney Spears - Demo (Produced by DFA) - head here

out hud

2006-01-04T09:49:00.000-08:00

In relation to my last post about !!!, here's Out Hud. The sister band to !!!, Out Hud was originally formed around the same time as them in 1996. The steady dance beat rythms along with the energetic pace that Out Hud so perfectly craft will make the shyest, most humble person boogie down.

Let Us Never Speak of It Again indicates that the band is moving in a tech house direction. This is a good thing and I hope they continue persuing this, because at this rate they'll keep churning out hits like there's no tomorrow.

I posted "One Life To Leave" as one of my favorite songs of 2005. I have also uploaded "It's For You" along with it for you to sample.

+ Featured songs; "One Life To Leave" - download here, "It's For You" - download here

!!!

2006-01-04T01:34:00.000-08:00

Unfortunately, the day I decide to feature !!! is the day I find out that the original drummer for the band, Anthony Mikel Gius had died on December 17th. He was apparently struck by a car while riding his bike. Not good news at all. My condolences to family, friends and fans.

Anthony had helped form the band in the fall of 1996. !!! (usually pronounced chk chk chk) is an experimental dance band derived from former hardcore and funk bands. They released their self-titled debut album in 2000, and Louden Up Now on Touch And Go records last year.

With dark, grimy tempos and attitude, !!! deliver sexual dance music. It's very experimental, but I find it pleasing.

+ Featured songs; "Pardon My Freedom" - download here, "Dear Can" - download here

styrofoam

2006-01-03T17:10:00.000-08:00

I'm going to try and do atleast two dance/electro band features everyday, if time permits. Next up is Styrofoam. Arne van Petegem (top right) is the band's genius, the orchestrator. Nothing Lost, Styrofoam's 2004 release, was nothing short of spectacular. With the collaboration and involvement from band's such as Lali Puna, Das Pop and American Analog Set, Arne was destined to create something great. Ben Gibbard even flew out from Seattle to assist.

The outcome of this was a memorable pop electronic album I think many would enjoy. For fans of bubblegum pop ala The Postal Service.

I've uploaded two of my favorite Styrofoam tracks. I recommend listening to "A Heart Without A Mind (Radio Edit)", it's soft, melodic and easy to get into.

+ Featured songs; "A Heart Without A Mind (Radio Edit)" - download here, "Couches In Alleys (Featuring Ben Gibbard)" - download here

cut copy

2006-01-03T11:58:00.000-08:00

Alright, so this week I plan to feature dance/electro bands. I chose this theme because it's the new year and I feel the need to enlighten some with party music.

To start it off properly I begin with Cut Copy. These Austrilian natives released Bright Like Neon Love earlier this year which is a stellar debut album. Even Franz Ferdinand have become fond of this band. It's futuristic pop influenced by the likes of ELO and New Order.

I find myself listening to this album while I'm either riding my bike or walking aimlessly throughout the city. It's just amazing background music that puts a smile to your face. Though it may remind you of music for a car commerical, Cut Copy's song are bound to make your hips shake.

+ Featured songs; "Time Stands Still" - download here, "Saturdays" - download here

+ Featured videos; "Future" - watch here, "Saturdays" - watch here

Visit their myspace to listen to additional songs.

new stuff

2006-01-02T22:32:00.000-08:00

I just finished editing the layout for this blog. Hopefully you enjoy the colors. I've been fortunate to start up my video production website again (Adamo Videos; adamovideos.tomgilk.com), so I've been as busy as ever. The website layout is a bit bland, and if you can help be sure to contact me. Live videos from bands such as Fear Before The March Of Flames, Plot To Blow Up The Eiffel Tower, Armor For Sleep, Crystal Skulls, Red Sparowes and much much more are instore.

Also, I've got bandwidth. Take advantage of it, all of the recent featured songs are direct downloads. It's nice having that versus using a hosting site.

death from above 1979 live itunes session

2006-01-02T15:06:00.000-08:00

In my last post I listed Death From Above 1979's "You're Lovely (But You've Got Problems)" as one of my favorite songs of 2005. Here's where I heard it first; a live iTunes session. I initially got this for "Little Girl", but upon first listening I came across "You're Lovely..". I love this track.

Tracklisting:
01. Black History Month (4:14)
02. Girl U R Lovely (3:06)
03. Going Steady (2:21)
04. Little Girl (4:27)

+ Featured download; Death From Above 1979 Live iTunes Session - download here

(p.s., fixed the link)

top ten tracks of 2005

2006-01-01T11:31:00.000-08:00

So, 2005 has ended, and a new year has dawned upon us. 2005 brought a lot to the table and for me was a very significant year. I grew a lot, mentally, physically, and most importantly musically. I think my love for music has matured immensely. I've gone through phases of pop-punk to hardcore (both of which I still enjoy to some extent), but have finally found my true love/calling - indie.

I've compiled a list of my ten favorite tracks this year. Not a big list, but these are tracks that I probably played on repeat a million times on my iPod throughout the year. Keep in mind, these are my favorite tracks by themselves, but there are numerous other songs I find amazing on album when played as a whole (ie, Sigur Ros, Red Sparrowes, Broken Social Scene).

>> TLD: TOP TEN TRACKS OF 2005

1. Voxtrot - "Raised By Wolves" (song)
What can I say? I nabbed this release through indietorrents, and I will be forever grateful. This is my favorite band of 2005. This is my favorite song of 2005. They put out one of the best releases of the year in my opinion.

2. Orange Juice - "Falling And Laughing" (song)
Okay, so this song wasn't written or originally released this year, but Orange Juice's The Glasgow School (a collection of singles and B-Side) was. If you have yet to hear of Orange Juice, I advise you to listen to this song. This is the sound of young Scotland.

3. Tom Vek - "I Ain't Saying My Goodbyes" (song)
This is a hit single right here. The tinny guitar intro draws you. You'll definitely have this stuck in your head by the second or third listen.

4. Out Hud - "One Life To Live" (song)
Infectious dance beat + awesome female vocalist = amazing song.

5. Wolf Parade - "Disco Sheets" (song)
Wolf Parade surely made a mistake by not including this on Apologies To The Queen Mary. This is my favorite Wolf Parade track among all their work. The drumming is just mesmorizing.

6. Death From Above 1979 - "You're Lovely (But You've Got Problems)" (song)
I first heard this song on their live iTunes session. I think it had a 76 play count or so before it was replaced by the Romance Bloody Romance version. I'm just fascinated that Sebastien does both the drums and vocals, as the drumming alone is wicked.

7. Stars - "One More Night" (song)
Rumor has it this band is breaking up, but I'm not one to start gossip. Anyhow, Set Yourself On Fire was a great album and this track stands out. The vocal trade-off intrigues me.

8. Loveninjas - "Meet Me Here" (song)
First Loveninjas song I heard. It was a great introduction to the band. Highly melodic, and has a "Fix You"-like breakdown halfway through the song.

9. Emporer X - "Sfearion" (song)
Chad Methney puts out goooood fucking material. This track reminds me of music off of Lost In Translation. Is it on the soundtrack? haha

10. Okkervil River - "No Key, No Plan" (song)
Almost didn't make it, but this one slipped in. I find the Black Sheep Boy Appendix EP more enjoyful than the LP just for the first four tracks. "...but I'm gonna trrrrrrrrrrrrry"

So there it is. If I extended the list to fifteen or twenty, I'd probably add Shout Out Loud's "The Comeback" (Ratatat remix), some Strokes, Lightning Bolt, Bloc Party and Devendra Banhart. I like what I like and hopefully I've shared music you'll enjoy yourselves.

ambulance ltd

2005-12-31T21:43:00.000-08:00

Ambulance LTD hails from Brooklyn, New York. Formed in 2000, the band draws influence from the Beatles to the Smiths and everything inbetween. This band is very diverse and can often be associated with shoegazing and britpop. The band's music is truly a treat.

I don't know how I missed the band's self-titled which was released in 2004, but I came across it earlier this year and quickly became one of my favorite records of the year. I have posted two tracks from the album, as well as links to their respected videos.

+ Featured songs; "Stay Where You Are" - download here, "Heavy Lifting" - download here

+ Featured videos; "Stay Where You Are" - watch here, "Heavy Lifting" - watch here

elvis costello

2005-12-29T16:28:00.000-08:00

Elvis Costello, oh Elvis Costello. I don't think I even have to introduce this musician. He's done so much in his lifetime, that you couldn't possibly miss hearing of him. He's been a tremendous musician for the past two or three decades. Recording and putting out monstrous albums such as This Year's Model (my personal favorite, I have the two disc set; highly recommended), Armed Forces, Spike, and Brutal Youth, Elvis Costello will forever be remembered by me.

Anyways, Elvis Costello, along with an orchestra, will be performing through selected cities starting in March. I'm definitely not going to miss this when they come around to San Francisco and I advise you to do the same if it comes near your area. You may check out tour dates on his website here. He will be playing with some of the finest symphonies in the US and have the show cut into two halves (first half playing work from II Sogno, second half playing his pop hits).

If you are unfamiliar with Elvis Costello or want to preview some of his songs, I have uploaded three of his biggest hits.

+ Featured songs; "Pump It Up" - download here, "Allison" - download here, "No Action" - download here

(p.s., no more megaupload since I do have bandwidth, so enjoy the direct downloads!)

the most serene republic

2005-12-21T02:27:00.000-08:00

The Most Serene Republic is a Canada-based band. They had put out Underwater Cinematographer out early this year, and in my opinion, is one of the sleeper hits of 2005. Although the album did not get revered much by critics, I find it to be one of my favorite albums that had come along and I cherish this little gem.

They are currently signed to Arts & Crafts and is the first band that isn't related to Broken Social Scene on the label. I have uploaded one of my favorite tracks from Underwater Cinematorgrapher. It's a bit Kings Of Convenience-esque.

+ Featured song; The Most Serene Republic - "Proposition 61" - download here

live video: red sparowes

2005-12-20T17:45:00.000-08:00

I was able to film Red Sparowes this summer at an in-store in Amoeba (San Francisco). I had seen Red Sparowes open a couple times and knew what to expect, but this showcase was so intimate. They are currently one of my favorite instrumental bands, live and on record. They just sound phenomenal.

If you're into epic instrumental music, with amazing build-ups/breakdowns, definitely go out and purchase "At The Soundless Dawn". It's one of my favorite releases of 2005.

For fans of Explosions In The Sky, Pelican, and Sonic Youth.

+ Featured download; Red Sparowes - "Alone And Unaware" (in-store video) - download here

(p.s., I named the file/title wrong - Red Sparrowes. perhaps I'll change it later tonight)

live video: tegan and sara 2

2005-12-20T00:37:00.000-08:00

As promised, and I am really sorry for the delay, here's another snippet from the Tegan And Sara in-store we had filmed awhile back. This one is about ten minutes long and features both "There's Still Time" and "Walking With A Ghost". They talk about Gap jeans and about the crowd's attractiveness.

Enjoy. And please give thanks in the comments to Kate. She was generous enough to give me bandwidth to host the video.

+ Featured download; Tegan And Sara - "There's Still Time" and "Walking With A Ghost" (in-store video) - download here

elliott smith

2005-12-18T16:23:00.000-08:00

I came across reading a YANP post upon more leaked Elliott Smith songs and reminded myself of the great song, "Stickman" I heard a week or two ago. It's probably one of my favorite Elliott Smith songs post-Figure 8. Anyhow, I really want my readers to listen to Elliott Smith if you haven't already, since he is one of my favorite writers/composer of all-time. Very, very influential.

+ Featured songs; "Stickman (alternate version)", "Instrumental", "Everything's Okay" - head over here and "Stickman" - download here

Oh, and I've found a stable host (thanks to Kate) for the videos and hopefully be able to upload them tonight. I'm actually editing the video as I post.

the strokes & regina spektor

2005-12-13T04:17:00.000-08:00

I'm pretty sure you guys haven't forgotten The Strokes. Having that huge hit, "Last Night" a couple years ago, along with some other memorable tunes ("Repitila", "Hard To Explain", "12:51") they made quite a name for themselves in the music industry.

Being a huge fan of the band and their records, I was looking forward to their upcoming release, "First Impressions Of Earth". Despite the fact that their single "Juicebox" that hit airwaves was a disappointment, I was still optimistic. I recently got to listen to the album in it's whole entirity and was blown away. This band has mantained credibility and produced an album I think will surprise old fans as well as new.

With all this Strokes talk, I decided to post up a live version of one of my favorite tracks. It actually has Regina Spektor guest on it, which is interesting. This song isn't featured on any of their albums, and I think the only way to obtain it is through iTunes (the non-live version).

+ Featured song;
The Strokes And Regina Spektor - "Modern Girls And Old-Fashion Men" - download here

liars

2005-12-10T03:46:00.000-08:00

In lieu of my lack of updates, here's a new Liars track I came across on 20 Jazz Funk Greats. I'd like to just link the mp3 from this blog, but I can't seem to find the post URL. I hope they don't mind me linking it directly. Anyhow, Liars sound like they're exploring a new sound. Really dark and clouded versus their previous 'dancy' stuff. Listen for yourself.

+ Featured song; "Drum And The Uncomfortable Can" - download here

(p.s., the Tegan And Sara video is on it's way, as well as a Red Sparrowes video I shot during the summer. Plus, I may have found someone to host them, so no more hassle with megaupload)

loveninjas

2005-12-06T17:56:00.000-08:00

You're probably asking yourself, what's with all these "love" bands I've been featuring (The Lovekevins, The Lovemakers)? Well, it's all coincidental; believe me, I don't plan it. All these "love" named bands just seem to grab my attention.

And that's the case for Loveninjas. This band is amazing. I love Labrador Records for putting their EP out. Oozing out pop goodness is the only thing this band knows.

+ Featured songs; "Keep Your Love" - download here, "Meet Me Here" - download here

I highly recommend listening to any and or both of those tunes. Please.

kt tunstall

2005-12-05T04:33:00.000-08:00

Let me start off by saying that KT is a QT. Yes, I said it. That aside, her debut album Eye To The Telescope struck me by surprise. This Scottish singer can sure write strong pop/folk tunes. Partnered with the great producer, Steve Osborne (who has worked with U2, New Order, Doves), KT Tunstall has created a good album I recommend checking out.

And since KT does not have any mp3s online, nor can I upload them, you can stream a thirty second clip of each of the tracks here.

elefant

2005-12-04T01:07:00.000-08:00

If you haven't already noticed, the name of this blog derives from a particular Elefant song. I don't know what made me choose it or if I have some sort of attachment to the title, but at the time it just sounded sassy.

Anyhow, the band is currently mixing their upcoming album, entitled The Black Magic Show, and are looking to release it in April. I am awaiting this sophmore disc, as I was in love with Sunlight Makes Me Paranoid.

+ Featured song; "The Clown" (new track) - download here

portugal. the man, the interview.

2005-12-02T19:58:00.000-08:00

Not too many bands easily appeal to me nowadays. I think it's the fact that there are one too many bands that have been there, done that, not only in music, but in image. It's hard to find unique personas and individuals making creative and distinct music.

Portugal. The Man was the such find that intrigued me. I was fortunate to interview John Baldwin Gourley, the lead vocalist of the band. (Read interview here..)

TLD: When did your band, Portugal. The Man form, and how did that go about?

John Baldwin Gourley: Really, this band started to form right before I left Alaska to join Anatomy Of A Ghost. It has been around since then on the side but only full time since around January 2004.

TLD: You guys are based in Alaska. This, to me, is pretty crazy. How would you describe life there, and how much effect/impact it has made on the band.

John Baldwin Gourley: Lately the band has been very, very Portland based. It's really difficult to keep a constant movement out of home. Too far off you know?

Alaska has had a huge impact on my writing personally. I mean, If I wasn't in this band I would still be there right now. That place has birthed some of best and worst from what I can gather. There is a lot that goes down there that seems very uncommon out here.

TLD: So I hear you guys have decided to release your debut record on Fearless Records. How did that conclusion come about? Was it only logical since Anatomy Of A Ghost was previously on that label, or..

John Baldwin Gourley: The history was a big part of it. In all honesty there were other labels we were looking into but at this point I feel our decision was the best we could have made. They have been very supportive. I mean, its an odd record for them and they have been adapting to that like crazy. only good words from us. It's A lot easier to be with a label where you already know you have friends. Anxious to see how it goes. Plus, it's a lot.

TLD: Tell me about the debut album, "Waiter: You Vultures!". What's the meaning behind the album title, and what can we expect musically from it?

John Baldwin Gourley: Among other things, the title is a sort of "in memory of" for Hunter S. Thompson. I don't like to get into meanings too much at this point. But yeah, thats a simple one.

TLD: I see that you guys are playing a few shows here and there. How is the turn out and response? Do you guys intend to do a tour soon? Do you guys have any supporting acts in mind?

John Baldwin Gourley: We have a lot of fun, I guess. Seems to be that way for us. As for tours, we are heading out this January with an all west coast thing then full US afterwards. Supporting acts? we'll see where things go. We'll just be happy to be traveling once again. We didn't leave Alaska to sit on our asses all day.

TLD: What are some things that personally influence you? I know you are huge on illustration and many forms of art. Any favorite modern artist that you're fond of?

John Baldwin Gourley: I wish I could name some. I am not an art kid by any means. None of us are. We like to do it a lot but as far as other artists go, we are out of the loop. We have friends over at www.decoy.tv, www.dualhornunicorn.com, Austin Sellers... These people are very good.

We find it very fun to do. A lot of my stuff looks disgusting to me but whatever. Painting is much much fun for my hands. Need things to occupy them hands anyway. We're not good at walking through galleries and picking out flaws and deciding what is the best.

TLD: Lastly, are there any bands out there that we should keep an eye out for?

John Baldwin Gourley: Turbo Perfecto and The Burning Room. Alaskan friends, past bands and shit, good guys.

Be sure to pick up Waiter: You Vultures! in stores January 24, 2006. It is being released by Fearless Records, and is a highly anticipated release for me. You can preview some of the tracks on the album through their myspace.

the double

2005-12-02T17:12:00.000-08:00

I'm a huge fan of Matador releases. Some of my favorite bands of all-time are on that label, so I'm crazy about them. Lately, I haven't been up to date with most of their roster, so it was surprising to find The Double. They can sure write melodies and I find it enthralling.

+ Listen to "Idiocy"; download here

follow-up: tegan and sara video

2005-11-30T02:00:00.000-08:00

I've been getting a tremendous amount of responses pertaining to the Tegan and Sara video I posted up about a week ago. It's very flattering receiving e-mails and IMs giving me postive feedback on it. I do promise to post more footage and clips from the instore during this week or next, as a token of appreciation. Keep an eye out.

battles signs with warp records

2005-11-30T00:04:00.000-08:00

Appears Battles has signed with Warp Records. Warp Records, if you did not know, is home of bands such as !!!, Maximo Park, and Boards Of Canada. Spawning from bands such as Don Caballero and Helmet, you can only expect greatness from this gnarly instrumental band.

voxtrot

2005-11-28T13:04:00.000-08:00

A lot of fuss has been speculating around this band throughout blogs. I checked this band out a couple months back, and I fell in love. Their Raised By Wolves EP is, to say the least, superb.

I see big things ahead for Voxtrot.

Gorilla Vs. Bear has pointed out that they have a new song on their myspace. If anyone is willing to rip this in mp3 format for download, I would forever be grateful.

the lovekevins

2005-11-26T17:41:00.000-08:00

When I think of The Lovekevins, I think of solid, straight pop music. I came across this band looking through some playlist on a website. I listened to a couple of their mp3s, and grabbed their EP, Blame The English, right away. Their new four song EP, Max Leon, was released recently, but I have yet to hear it. I bet it's delightful though.

They practically have their whole Blame The English EP up for download on their website, with the exception of one track (which isn't a shame, since I don't favor it).

+ Featured songs; (off of Blame The English EP):

01. Blame The English
02. Stop Being Perfect
03. Happy Happy

I highly recommend listening to "Happy Happy". It's my favorite. Also, they have a track up from their newest EP entitled, Soviet.se.

Let me know what you think.

animal collective live and bonus

2005-11-25T10:13:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite album this year was definitely Animal Collective's "Feels". It was just such an awesome disc. When they came around to San Francisco a few days ago, I regretfully missed it. That was one live show I wanted to witness this year.

Anyhow, I have some treats for you guys. I have uploaded two Animal Collective live discs I found on Indietorrents. One is a bonus disc to "Feels", which was limited to about a thousand copies. The second one is a live recording in New York, New York. Pretty interesting stuff if you are into live recordings and such.

Here's the tracklisting for the two:

- Animal Collective - "Feels" Bonus Disc
Tracklisting:
01. Banshee Beat [Haverford, PA] (11:47)
02. Loch Raven [Haverford, PA] (6:43)
03. Did You See The Words [Chapel Hill, NC] (6:30)
04. Wastered [Toronto, ON] (3:50)

- Animal Collective - Live In NY, NY (2/25)
Tracklisting:
01. Loch Raven (12:20)
02. Banshee Beat (11:44)
03. Fickle Cycle (7:41)
04. Untitled (5:39)
05. Turn Into Something (10:44)
06. Grass (4:26)
07. Daffy Duck (7:18)
08. Purple Bottle (15:26)
09. Did You See The Words (6:35)
10. Kids On Holiday (9:40)

+ Featured downloads; Animal Collective Feels Bonus Disc - download here, Animal Collective Live In NY, NY - download here

the lovemakers

2005-11-24T16:36:00.000-08:00

Lisa Light is quite the frontwoman for this pop/electronica dance band, The Lovemakers. Wearing revealing and sparse outfits on stage, she always promises to get the crowd going. Their shows are often raunchy and emit sex throughout venues.

Their name possibly came from Scott Blonde (guitarist) and Lisa Light's relationship. Amusingly enough, the two were both lovemakers. The group has released two albums, one self-titled, and recently, Times Of Romance. They are currently signed to Cherrytree Records, an imprint from Interscope.

If you're into catchy, dance-beat music, be sure to check this band out. You won't regret it.

+ Featured songs; "Shake That Ass" - download here, "Set Me Free" - download here

also, check out a remix of "Shake That Ass" featuring 50 Cent on their myspace.

live video: tegan and sara

2005-11-24T13:31:00.000-08:00

I'm not too keen on this Canadian duo, but my friend Sean had the opportunity to film an in-store they did in Long Beach a couple summers ago (I think this video is either from 2003, or 2004). Afterwards, Sean was fortunate to take them out for pizza. Though I don't find their music enjoyable, I find them quite attractive.

Watch as Tegan discusses how she composed and wrote "Speak Slow" and how it ended up on the record. Apparently, Sara has her own record label and wants to sign Tegan as a solo artist.

This is the first of many videos to come. I hope to have a Red Sparrowes video up by this week. Happy Thanksgiving, folks.

+ Featured download; Tegan And Sara - "Speak Slow" (in-store video) - download here

(p.s., evidently, the last title of the video reads as "letsdancetonight.blogspot.com". haha, I'm too lazy to fix that).

wolf parade cbc radio 3 recordings

2005-11-23T11:44:00.000-08:00

Here's a little something I nabbed from Indietorrents awhile back that I want to share with everyone. It's a live Wolf Parade studio session at CBC Radio 3. Enjoy.

Tracklisting:
01. Lousy Pictures (4:23)
02. I'll Believe In Anything, You'll Believe In Anything (4:22)
03. Same Ghost Every Night (5:09)
04. I Am My Father's Son (3:14)
05. Shine A Light (3:42)

+ Featured download; Wolf Parade CBC Radio 3 Recordings - download here

nightmare of you music video

2005-11-22T23:11:00.000-08:00

The Long Island based band, Nightmare Of You, have recently shot a video for their single, "I Want To Be Buried In Your Backyard". Looks as though they walked around a forest and filmed their performance there for the video. This band is a bit of a guilty pleasure of mine, as their guitarist/vocalist Brandon Reilly used to play in the now defunct The Movielife (which I was very fond of). Albeit their hardcore roots and origin, Nightmare Of You has more of Smiths/Morrissey pop feel.

+ Check out their video for "I Want To Be Buried In Your Backyard": quicktime | windows

the boy least likely to come to the states

2005-11-22T11:55:00.000-08:00

Taken from Pitchforkmedia, 'they will deliver their carefully crafted indie-pop debut, The Best Party Ever, to our shores on April 4, on their own label, Too Young to Die. The album will feature the same 12 songs as the UK version, but will also come strapped with a bonus disc of five songs in their first widely available format, boasting such least likely titles as "Every Grubby Little Memory" and "Rock Upon a Porch With You."'

Am I excited despite the fact that I already own this album? Hell yes. Plus, it's reported they'll tour America beginning in March at SXSW. Even though that's months away, I can't wait.

foreign born

2005-11-21T19:37:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite bands as of late has to be Foreign Born. I had discovered this little gem through one of my friends and I was amazed after listening to their EP, In Remote Woods.

Eerie shoegazing-esque guitars, along with strong melodies, produces unforgettable tunes. For fans of The Stills, Interpol, and The Walkmen.

+ Featured song; "We Had Pleasure" - download here

wait, what?

2005-11-21T18:38:00.000-08:00

In the next coming weeks, I'll be using this blog to advertise/expose band mp3's, along with hosting live audio, video, and photos from shows I attend. Sit tight.