Voilà! Music Wrap-Up: 2007

That's it. The end. 2007 is coming to a close, and what a wonderful/crazy/stupid/[insert adjective] year it has been. As always, there was a ton of music put out in 2007, and Voilà! is here to do that music justice.

This is Voilà!'s 1st Annual synopsis of music for a year. Obviously, these aren't the opinions of all the writers here at Voilà!, just mine. But until we have more writers, I believe this will suffice! I'll provide the link to buy the album from the well respected folks at Insound.com, the best indie music purveyors on the net (which we are not sponsors by... they're seriously just great). Wary of who you spend to? I can guarantee that every album in the Top and Bottom 10s are on Amazon.com. Each album in the Top and Bottom 10 get a short review. Now, there are four different categories.

Here's how it works:
The Top 10 - The best 10 albums of 2007.
The Bottom 10 - The best 10 albums that didn't make the Top 10. Hence, Bottom 10.
Obscure Recommendations - Some more obscure albums released in 2007 that were worthy of mention.
Best Bands For 2008 - The best new bands you should really pay attention to starting Jan. 1st.






Top 10:
[the best of the best]



Myth Takes by !!! - Dance-techno-disco-funk band !!! [chk chk chk] has had a huge underground following of crazy clubbers seeking live dance-punk that is iconic to !!!. But with the release Myth Takes, they gained a little publicity here, a few fans there, and soon were luring in hundreds of unsuspecting new fans to the insane, profane, grungy, sexy, sweaty, funky world that only !!! can rule. Every song is catchy, every song will make your whole body move, and Myth Takes can teach you the meaning of "acid-tripping."

Neon Bible by The Arcade Fire - Who didn't see it coming? The long awaited follow up to the highly acclaimed Funeral, Arcade Fire delivered tenfold with Neon Bible. Every track is packed with powerful orchestral rock that invigorates every emotion in the only way the crazy Canadian collective knows how to achieve. Somewhat dark, somewhat uplifting, somewhat enlightening, Neon Bible takes listeners down a beautifully composed river of brilliance.

All of a Sudden I Miss Everyone by Explosions in the Sky - After four years of waiting since their last LP, when Explosions released their latest venture, they were given very high expectations by fans. All of a Sudden I Miss Everyone takes every expectation and blows them out of the water. The Texas post-rockers come out touting all the guns, bearing everything from deafening walls of sounds to delicate and quiet masterpieces. All of a Sudden... leaves nobody disappointed.

The Reminder by Feist - Leslie Feist is probably one of the strongest female personalities in indie rock. With her soothing, sensual voice that leaves you drooling, and her obvious credibility (Broken Social Scene alumni? Yes.), any album she's willing to put under her belt is another must hear. The Reminder is no exception as Feist finds a beautiful groove somewhere in-between happy and sad; bouncy and moody; sentimental and fun. The Reminder sounds like a glorious compilation of lullabies.

The Shepherd's Dog by Iron & Wine - Sam Beam and his outfit Iron & Wine is quite easily uncontested as one of the most talented modern folk artists. But is it possible for a traditional minimalist-folk artist to make their songs... poppy? The Shepherd's Dog makes this fantasy a reality. It is without any doubts the most accessible of his albums, one of the most diverse (with more emphasis on a full-band sound), and possibly one of the best. If you listen to only one album on this list, make it The Shepherd's Dog.

We Were Dead Before the Ship Even Sank by Modest Mouse - Modest Mouse has this weird thing they do. When you listen to one of their albums, they start off with some odd songs. Catchy, but odd. Then, after a few songs into the album, BOOM, they hit this groove, and it's smooth sailing. It appears this particular album isn't sinking, because We Were Dead Before the Ship Even Sank is your expected Modest Mouse album: meaning it exceeds expectations. Very catchy and vibrant, as well as being very diverse with the sound. Their change toward a slightly more pop-oriented sound (while still retaining the part of their music that keeps them unique) shows strongly; over half the songs on We Were Dead... could qualify as good singles. If you aren't sure which way to turn for good music, best bet your money on Modest Mouse this year.

Anytown Graffiti by Pela - Diversity prospers while typicality weakens. That could be the motto of Pela's rise to fame with their debut full-length album, Anytown Graffiti. Pela has great material, and is consistently different, making wonderful music the whole way through Anytown Graffiti. Drawing inspiration from every band under the sun, Pela pulls out the a full-house for their first album, and has more than earned a top 10 spot. If you haven't heard "Lost to the Lonesome" yet, listen now.


In Rainbows by Radiohead - By now, every one has heard of the proverbial A-bomb Radiohead dropped on the music industry when they stated the unusual marketing ploy of "name your own price for the album." As if changing the way music is purchased wasn't enough, In Rainbows moves you lightly across 10 tracks of excellent songs that defines a powerful change in sound for Radiohead. If nothing more than making yet another Top 10, In Rainbows certainly wins most talked about album of the year.


__________________________

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Bottom 10:
[the albums that almost made it]



Planet of Ice by Minus the Bear - Frankly, the only thing that kept Planet Of Ice out of the Top 10 was the fact that there was no room left. Minus the Bear blew through competition with their latest album this year. What's really great about Planet of Ice is that Minus the Bear didn't change their style, but thoroughly focused and enhanced it. Everything you have loved about previous MtB albums is all here, it's just stepped up a notch. Smart lyrics, crazy guitar solos, and the smooth grooves of Minus the Bear, there is no reason Planet of Ice shouldn't make your top 10 of 2007.

Ga Ga Ga Ga Ga by Spoon - High hopes were... well, hoped, when Texan indie rockers Spoon set forth to make their next big album. But frankly... something just didn't click. The title is a bit disconcerting; it's hard to trust something named Ga Ga Ga Ga Ga. But the music drowns you in a very typical, clichéd indie style until you reach "The Underdog" (track 7 of 10). Listening to Ga Ga Ga Ga Ga is like working at a crappy job: At first, it's pretty lame and dull, but in the end, it's not so bad once you get used to it and get paid.

Places Like This by Architecture In Helsinki - If you want to think about party, but aren't a big enough raver to follow in the wake of !!!, Architecture In Helsinki provides. Places Like This is a wild departure from their normal style, diverting from their usual balance of slow and fast songs to a full album of party-tunes! Places Like This is in the bottom 10 because of this change. AIH loses something with all upbeat-fast-paced songs. Secondly, Places Like This is SHORT, barely stretching longer than half an hour. Places Like This is a fun album, with super-catchy tunes, but is just too short and one-trick pony'd to make the cut.

Spirit If... by Kevin Drew and Broken Social Scene - "Broken Social Scene Presents:". Four words can give one album in the indie world so much respect. But this first in a series of albums, Spirit If..., dedicated to BSS alum Kevin Drew, is a very hit-or-miss album. Without a doubt, there is great material on Spirit If..., including "TBTF," "Backed Out On The...," and "Safety Bricks." But other songs are somewhat lonely, and feel like they're missing something. I think the main problem with Spirit If... is that it isn't "Kevin Drew: The Solo Album," but marketed as a BSS album as well. You expect the full album strong enough to support Broken Social Scene, and receive what was intended to be one specific artist's solo stuff. Great tunes, great lyrics, and good album, though somewhat lackluster if you're expecting something bigger than Kevin.

Hissing Fauna, Are You the Destroyer? by Of Montreal - Let's face it, there aren't many bands like Of Montreal. Furthermore, there aren't many bands who know how to be as crazy, be as creepy, think as strangely, or have as much fun as them. Taking everything you've come to expect from Of Montreal, Hissing Fauna, Are You the Destroyer? pushes it up a notch while retaining the classic, catchy Of Montreal sound you can't live without. This belongs in the top 10, but Of Montreal got bumped out of the way by Pela, those sneaky buggers!

A Weekend in the City by Bloc Party - Bloc Party hit a riff of popularity with the release of Silent Alarm, and their follow up, A Weekend in the City was touted by endless music blogs as the most excellent sequel imaginable. But overall, A Weekend in the City proves to be somewhat of a weak album. Bloc Party's style changed from a more fast paced band emulating the likes of Franz Ferdinand to a more unique, but slower and more ambiguous style. Their songs are less catchy (I think anyway), such as "On," while others like "Uniform" come off as quite pretentious (though maybe that's what they aimed for?). This goes without mentioning that Bloc Party split some songs into B-sides, dishing them out randomly to different CDs. The B-sides are some of the best for this album. Though this review is negative, A Weekend In The City isn't a terrible album. It boasts great songs with Bloc Party's new style: "Kreuzberg" is great, as well as "I Still Remember." "Waiting For The 7:18" was one of my favorite songs of the year. But overall, A Weekend in the City just can't hold it's own compared to those in the Top 10.

Friend and Foe by Menomena - Menomena was a huge hit in 2007, and Friend and Foe is one of the first peaks some people have ever had at the band. As an album specifically, Friend and Foe is strong, moving, and diverse. But, it is also a refined taste. Menomena prides themselves on being an experimental band, and that's exactly what Friend and Foe is. The sound is different, the sound is odd, but all in good ways. You have to be prepared to hear something weird before listening to Menomena, and this is why Friend and Foe can't stand along with Top 10 Bands.


Even If It Kills Me by Motion City Soundtrack - I always have this fear about bands that receive the MTV Taint. That odd vibe after a band has appeared on the TRL countdown, or performed as some "New Band" or something. Will they continue to be consistent with their music? Or will they sell out? Out of nowhere, following the release of Commit This To Memory, Motion City Soundtrack shows they aren't letting popularity change their sound with Even If It Kills Me. They have their pop hits, but their music has remained well formed and real. "Antonia" is one of the best songs of the entire year, clearly drawing from the quirkiness of their previous song, "L.G. Fuad." This is a great album overall, and a good release for Motion City, but they could have been a little more diverse if they tried harder.

Wincing the Night Away by The Shins - The Shins always get flaunted as "The Indie Band." You're not hip if you don't listen to The Shins (it's probably cause of Garden State, isn't it?). But Wincing the Night Away proves they aren't all bark; The Shins have some bite in them! "Sleeping Lessons" is a wall-of-sound introduction that can blow you away, and "Australia" is possibly the most catchy song of the year. But as a whole, Wincing the Night Away got a bit tiresome and dull; songs like "Black Wave" and "Red Rabbits" are too deep and slow for The Shins, very reminiscent of "Your Algebra," which I never cared for. Good release, but somewhat typical and needs a little more "umph."

Population by The Most Serene Republic - Putting art students together always seems like it would spawn great creativity. The Most Serene Republic proves that with their incredibly diverse collection of songs on Population. Touted as the first Arts & Crafts band that isn't affiliated with Broken Social Scene gave them some attention, and they proved they were quite original (was I the only one that heard some Allman Brother-esque sound in "A Mix Of Sun And Cloud?"). But Population doesn't hold its own against others; it's almost a bit too diverse and experimental. The album is messy, and a bit random, but in an artistic way. But sadly, this great album is just like any other form of modern art - some people just aren't going to get it. Overall a great album, but not in comparison with some of those that made the Top 10.


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Obscure Recommendations
[some folks who made enough noise to be heard]


Back For The Fight by Oliver Boyd and the Remembralls

The Ivori Palms by Peter and the Wolf

Let It Snow... Let It Reindeer by Relient K

New Moon by Elliot Smith

Nothing To Say by All About Max

Obadiah Parker Live by Obadiah Parker

Punch Your Lights Out EP by Danger: Radio

The Stage Names by Okkervil River

Sticking Fingers Into Sockets by Los Campesinos!

The Soft Skin - EP by Brown Recluse Sings

You, You Are A History In Rust by Do Make Say Think

Who Wants To Fight A Million Bears by J Versus K

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Best Bands For 2008
[the ones you should watch closely]


Bright Light Fever

Cullen Rollins

Ghosts & Liars

The Hermione Crookshanks Experience [and/or] Kristine Tuna

J Versus K

Julia Maree

Los Campesinos!

Nightmare Of You

Oliver Boyd and the Remembralls [and/or] Christian Calderia

Owen Pye

This Will Destroy You

Playlist: Merry Christmas To All, And To All Some Good Music

Presents galore, Christmas hams cooked to perfection, and celebration all around! It's Christmas time, and I love it! I've been mixing cds for everyone in the spirit of the season, and believe me, there is an endless amount of great Christmas tunes. Everyone I gave a mix to has shown a different set of songs each time, but this is my mix; the mix that has kept me peppy through the holidays. Maybe you'll enjoy it too!




Song - Artist
[Album]
___________________________________


Sleigh Ride - Relient K
[Let It Snow... Let It Reindeer]

Seasons Greetings - Robbers on High Street

Last Christmas - Jimmy Eat World

Christmas In Hollywood - Hollywood Undead

Oh! Christmas Tree - The Whomping Willows
[Jingle Spells]

I Won't Be Home for Christmas - Blink 182
[A Santa Clause]

An Epic Christmas Tale, Chapter One: How The Thestrals Saved Christmas - The Mudbloods
[Jingle Spells]

Christmas Time for Girls and Boys - Steve Goldberg and the Arch Enemies

Wrocking Around The Bathroom Stall - The Moaning Myrtles
[Jingle Spells]

Kiss Me Beneath the Christmas Tree - Casper and the Cookies

My Christmas List - Simple Plan

Yule Shoot Your Eye Out - Fall Out Boy
[A Santa Clause]

The Sweater Song - The Hermione Crookshanks Experience
[Jingle Spells]

O Holey Night - Ministry of Magic
[Jingle Spells]

All I Want For Christmas Is You (Mariah Carrey) - Danger: Radio

Please Daddy (Don't Get Drunk This Christmas) - The Decemberists
[Connect Set: The Decemberists]

That Was The Worst Christmas Ever! - Sufjan Stevens
[Sufjan Stevens: Songs for Christmas]

Silent Night/Away In A Manger - Relient K
[Let It Snow... Let It Reindeer]

Joy to the World - Sufjan Stevens
[Sufjan Stevens: Songs for Christmas]

O Come All Ye Faithful/O Come O Come Emmanuel - Coin Laundry Loser
[Rejoice! a Christmas EP]

Happy Christmas Day - Oliver Boyd and the Remembralls
[Back For The Fight]

The Twelve Days Of Wizard Christmas - Gred and Forge
[Jingle Spells]

Band of the Week: Oliver Boyd and the Remembralls

[December 24-31]
Oliver Boyd and the Remembralls
Sounds Like: Wizard Rock
Drinking Buddies: Talons & Tea Leaves, Catchlove, The Nifflers, The Hermione Crookshanks Experience.
Synopsis: If the Harry Potter books were a musical...
Makes You Want To...: Read!; Sing!; fight Voldemort.
[Oliver Boyd and the Remembralls' Myspace]
[Christian Caldeira's Myspace]




One week, one band. You know the drill.
This week, the featured artist is Oliver Boyd and the Remembralls.



That's all folks! Almost done. We're in the last week of 2007. Suffice it to say, it's surely been an interesting year. But, December isn't about to toss the remainder of the year haphazardly aside. Whether you're celebrating Christmas, Boxing Day, Kwanzaa, Hanukkah, the Winter Solstice, or any of the myriad of holidays that encroach upon us this month, December is a week of celebration, jubilation, and maybe a tad bit too much drinking and dining before it climaxes on the first. But New Years aside, this is a time to celebrate the year that has passed before us.

Let's not forget to mention the one last band we've saved up for last. Christian Calderia is the dubious solo act that makes up the wrocking Wizard rock band Oliver Boyd and the Remembralls. As usual, Calderia uses his monkier Oliver Boyd to play some sweet Harry Potter inspired tunes with a full and well rounded sound. Taking the best of both the music world, as well as the wizarding world, Oliver Boyd and the Remembralls sings Potter-spiced lyrics that don't drown listeners in Potter trivia.

These songs can stand on their own, encompassing not only a large array of musical styling, but also act as a bridge for the casual Harry Potter reader who is curious about the strange wizard rock sub-culture. That being said, Oliver Boyd and the Remembralls are the clearest anthems to the wizarding world for the real fans. Hitting every note of the story: the DA, Horcruxes, Voldy, Lupin, Malfoy, and the Second Wizarding War, without scaring you by launching out all the details. If wrock was "pop," this would be what you'd listen to on the Wireless... *cough* I mean radio.

Oliver Boyd and the Remembralls have two albums out as of now, Welcome To Wizard Rock and Back For The Fight, both up for sale. The Remembralls are also currently working on an upcoming release, the Breathing Space EP. Furthermore, Oliver Boyd has also teamed up with their cohorts in wrock (who conveniently hail from 30 miles away from me, in Dallas, TX), Catchlove, to form Talon's & Tea Leaves (which is, in essence, The Postal Service of wizard rock). Of course, Oliver Boyd's Muggle outfit, the solo act of Christian Calderia, has an entirely different accoutrement of material. If all of that wasn't enough, might I sincerely suggest wandering over to the OBatR Myspace and listening to "Happy Christmas Day," in the spirit of things?

Happy Christmas Eve everyone; hopefully everyone has some sweet presents under the tree awaiting to be ripped into. Get to sleep before Santa comes!

Cloverfield Sneak Peek

First entry not related at all to music!
But damn, this looks really good.
Major thanks to Kristin for showing me this.

"Let It Snow" - Her Space Holiday

In ways, I really hate blubbering on and on about Christmas related stuff, day in and day out. I know it's kinda repetitive.

And then again, I'm totally not! It only comes once a year, and I'm making sure we all over-indulge!

That being said, yet another Christmas song. This time by Her Space Holiday, covering the lovely "Let It Snow." It odd/crazy, as you would expect, but with all the Christmas love you could wish for. He also has another song up, "A Single Hand," on his Myspace. Both of these are up for download! Consider it the holiday cheer and a Christmas gift. You can return the favor by leaving him a nice comment. And while you're there, listen to "Japanese Gum," - you won't regret it.

"Stay In" - Army Navy

More new songs, and again, all about Christmas. As the day draws nearer (less than a week folks!), everyone's starting to pump out the carols. Army Navy's latest foray into the Yuletide world is "Stay In," which features Justin from Army Navy, and Charlotte from The Like. It's up for download now on their Myspace! Check it out.

"Leaving Myself" - All About Max

All About Max has himself a new song, "Leaving Myself." Massimiliano Setti is working on his second album, Tomorrow I'll Be Alone, and with his unique blending of ambiance with electronica, it's obvious he's doing a pretty good job! He now has it up for your listening pleasure on his Myspace (along with some other sweet tracks for download). But if you're wanting your own mp3 copy of it, you'll be wanting to download Let's Talk About Muertepop, a demo-album put out by All About Max's Spanish label, Muertepop. They put it out for free, so c'mon, do them the honour.

Coin Laundry Loser Celebrates Christmas!

Coin Laundry Loser has been touring the country with ol'buddy-ol'pal Owen Pye recently. But now that it "'Tis the season," all that mistletoe is going up everywhere, the mercury is dropping, and the Christmas lights are starting electrical fires, Mr. Nick Flora isn't about to let the Christmas season pass him by.

First off, Coin Laundry Loser is presenting some delightful Christmas tunes from his previously released Rejoice! a Christmas EP. One original track; the second, a cover of "O Come All Ye Faithful" and "O Come O Come Emmanuel" all in one. Totally free, in the spirit of giving and whatnot! So accept!

Secondly, he has his own little jig he doesn't have an audio recording of. He displays via video! Right below, watch his little acoustic performance of the original Christmas song "Come Out (For Christmas)." It's even in sing-along form! Wicked!

Finally, wander over to his Myspace. He's a really active blogger, and would love more friends/listeners. Mmmm, gotta love Christmas.

Band of the Week: Broken Social Scene

[December 17-23]
Broken Social Scene
Sounds Like: Experimental/Indie
Drinking Buddies: Stars, Metric, Feist, Do Make Say Think, Kevin Drew, Jason Collet, Stars, (et. al.)
Synopsis: The super-group of the 21st Century.
Makes You Want To...: Turn up the speakers, Paint, Make love.
[Myspace]




One week, one band. You know the drill.
This week, the featured artist is Broken Social Scene.



How does one even begin to start to say anything about Broken Social Scene? Usually hailed as the kings and queens of indie rock, this Canadian super-group has garnered fans far and wide, while procuring a hefty notoriety along the way. It might help nearly all the members (which has topped out so far at FIFTEEN - yes, one, two, three... fifteen!) belong to some other sort of band. Kevin Drew, and his solo act (accompanied, of course, by the rest of BSS) also played with KC Accidental, along with Charles Spearin. Of course, Spearin has jams with Do Make Say Think, also performing with Valley of Giants with Brendan Canning (also of Junior Blue). Lest I mention Leslie Feist's solo act, Stars with Emily Haines and James Shaw, Stars with Amy Millan, Jason Collet's solo project...

Making a long story a tad bit shorter, Broken Social Scene is the only band with such an extensive family tree.

But BSS isn't a just group of gallivanting celebrities with pretty smiles. Broken Social Scene pushes music forward with esoteric, eccentric lyrical composition, crazy song structure, and huge 10-or-more-people-playing-at-once walls of sound. They've taken pop and made it indie; they've taken indie and made it pop. Singing about everything from getting screwed for money, pretty girls, and blow jobs, while using their indie credibility to make a one-of-a-kind super group that makes bloggers blush, Broken Social Scene forms what some consider to be the epitome of modern-indie rock.

Broken Social Scene has a wheelbarrow-full of old EPs, as well as several amazing LPs including You Forgot It In People, Bee Hives, and of course the self titled Broken Social Scene. Just recently, Broken Social Scene formally presented their protege (and co-ish-founder, with Canning), Kevin Drew, with his latest solo-ish album, Spirit If... If you couldn't guess, these guys probably have a Myspace. They also have a fansite - neat! There's one last site, over on the Arts & Crafts' label site. That might be interesting. Now if you'll excuse me, I'm going to sing along to "Superconnected" very loudly. Have a nice week!

Rocking Out Against Voldemedia

Sometimes you can't just sit around and take an insult without screaming back. I'm sure you all know the feeling. Nobody is going to just sit around and let themselves get bullied into doing something they don't want to do, right?

I'm sure just about everyone who's willing to come to an independent non-profit music blog, or roam the internet for good music that's under the radar, knows about the actions the government is taking to regulate the ability of the media to function on its own. This isn't a political blog, but the fact is, the government is trying to regulate what conglomerates can release music, and which have the rights to own music. This is essentially putting all the little people down by benefiting those who are already in a higher power.

But there are some out there willing to stand up against this. In the imminence of a new bill that will be brought up in Congress on the 17th, The HP Alliance is releasing Rocking Out Against Voldemedia, a compilation CD with tons of wizard rock artists singing about not letting The Man (be it the Ministry of Magic, the US of A, or ol' Voldy himself) get them down. Filled with political activist anthems from the wizarding world, this compilation seeks to get listeners involved and stop this bill from being passed... while giving away music.

Yes, I did say giving. Yes, that does mean that the entire Rock Out Against Voldemort album is completely free! No strings attached. Just download the entire album from their site. It's certainly not mandatory, but they sincerely would like you to sign their petition, and maybe post up with the 2500+ people who have already signed. You can bet I have. It would be a great help to the cause. Free music, political activism; you just can't go wrong.

Stop Voldemedia! Don't be pushed around! Go here to find out more about the bill being passed, and to download Rocking Out Against Voldemedia. Don't want the free album of wizard rock? Why don't you just wander over here, and sign the bill against big media anyway? You don't have to listen to the music to be involved! Finally, to find out more about the HP Alliance, and how they're helping to change the world via Harry Potter and the Power Of Love, go to their website. Don't become a zombie/Inferi! Get out and be heard.

Band of the Week: The Skies We Built

[December 10-16]
The Skies We Built
Sounds Like: Indie/Instrumental/Experimental
Drinking Buddies: American Football, This Will Destroy You, Explosions In The Sky
Synopsis: Is "90s College-Rock Revival" a genre? Now it is.
Makes You Want To...: Daydream; Read a book; Walk through the park.
[Myspace]






One week, one band. You know the drill.
This week, the featured artist is The Skies We Built.


Now, there was once, a long time ago, this era. It was called the 90s. Get this, that was a century ago! How old! A century means old, right?!

In all seriousness though, I was a wee little mongrel during the 90s. Frankly, I missed out on a lot of good music. In particular, there was a huge undercurrent of indie music beneath the glamour of boybands and pop-idols that were springing up out of the teenage landscape like pimples. The college radio scene was dominated by the likes of "real emo" bands (Fugazi), the uber-charming-yet-self-depreciative-singer-songwriters (Bright Eyes), and of course, the super indie elites (Pavement). There was also another style, which never really recieved it's due and proper a decade ago, but is still prevalent in modern indie rock. That would be the quirky blend of the undefinable mixing of 90s emo and early buddings of post-rock seen in bands like Sunny Day Real Estate, and probably the most invisible band of the 90s, American Football.


Taking after this subtle blend of emo, post-rock, jazz-inspired composition, and introspective lyrical composure in the modern age, is The Skies We Built. This was a fun band for me to catch wind of, because it was one of those accidents. After hearing them, followed via link from J Versus K's Myspace not too long ago, I was hooked. So much as a swift click of the mouse brings music I can't get out of my head. Fun times.

The Skies We Built is the modern day American Football. Ironically, these four boys hail from the same state of Illinois. Bold proposition, yes, but taking a style very reminiscent of This Will Destroy You (with a bit less repetition), the progressive sound you could hear from Do Make Say Think, and the willingness to blow your ears out with sheer musical volume, The Skies We Built takes a modern twist on a wonderful style that is all too frequently overlooked.

The Skies We Built have one EP under their belt, and have recently finished a tour throughout the States. They're oh so friendly, and would love it if you wandered over to their Myspace. In the meantime, start mailing those wish-lists to Santa (not Santana, which I almost typed), finish decorating that tree, and keep the good music flowing.

Arabella's first post!

Hey! This is my first post (which makes me slightly nervous to see your response), so I'm going to keep it short and sweet with a good, old-fashioned playlist of fun dancin' music!

1. D.A.N.C.E. - Justice
This song is way too much fun. I could (and have) listen to this song over and over and feel the urge to dance every time.
2. Temperature - Sean Paul
Okay, trust me here. I apologize if you don't like this song, but I am in love with Sean Paul's unique voice and Jamaican influenced music.
3. X and Y - Moving Units
My friend put this song on a CD for me in middle school and I still listen to it and can't help but dance whenever it comes on while I drive.
4. Rock Lobster - The B-52s
You know, it's actually people making the animal sounds. True love, this is.
5. New Wave Jacket - Polysics
!!!!!!!! I don't know what more to say, but who doesn't love a group of cute Asians?
6. Deceptacon - Le Tigre
I know, everybody uses this song in dance CDs. And who can blame them? It's fun, it's bouncy, it's exciting!
7. Seventeen Years - Ratatat
It seems like it goes on forever, but you won't notice once you've got the glowsticks going on anyway.


It was a short list, I know. But it appears to be 1:26 AM and my mind is functioning quite slowly, so I can't do much more. Enjoy!


EDIT: For those of you who might notice that the clock does NOT say 1:26 AM posted, that's my bad for saying I live in Afghanistan on accident on my profile. Tricky tricky!

Some By Sea (RIP) Selling Merch One Last Time

Granted, when I try and find things to talk about on Voilà!, I try to look for some decent content. A new song, or my favorite band lately, or a sweet video, or *gasps* the ever rare and elusive full album review (I'll do some eventually, I promise. I'm busy with exams.) But frankly, I search for something that's more than "OMGZZZ, HERE THEZ SWEET TOONZ GUYZ! I HEART TORRENTS!"


But I will be honest with you. This particular article is all about promoting a single band's sales. That's it. Nothing more. It's really sad, I know, but I do love the band so much, so I couldn't stop myself.


Now, Some By Sea is one of the most lovely bands I've ever had the luck of hearing. Sadly, the original line-up is no longer with us, though an echo of the lovely band of merry music makers resides in Ghosts & Liars, who I covered a few months ago. With a truly beautiful indie [slash] orchestral rock feel that only a gang of 20-somethings from Washington could produce, Some By Sea wooed the hearts of many as they released a couple EPs, and their first full length album, On Fire - Igloo, which I sincerely recommend as a VERY good album, one of my most favorite. If I gave numbered reviews in my articles (which I insure I'll almost never do), I would give On Fire - Igloo a 9.5 with a beaming smile. It is a must hear.

Well, after the bittersweet breakup, the bands stock of albums and merch slowly dwindled down to nothing. But by popular demand, after about a year of just hanging out, the ol' Some By Sea online stores are being pumped back into action for one more go. They still have a few EPs lying around, as well as the old merch and their debut album. This is a real treat to get some wonderful music (and maybe a shirt or sticker or two) by a wonderful band who will sadly never create further music under the moniker, nor get near enough of the respect they've undubiously earned with their amazing creativity.






I promise I won't berate you in a tirade of angry insults if you don't go buy all the stuff in their collection. I will say that there is hardly any guarantee that their store will EVER be opened again, and if you want to say you picked up on a beautiful band before they completely vanish, now's your last chance. You can check out the romance story that is Some By Sea here, on their Myspace. Over here, you can wander over to their website and store, and buy up all their goodies for Christmas. And finally, you can follow one last link, and head over to the spin-off band, Ghosts & Liars, who in the spirit of Some By Sea, continue to make delightful music.

Band of the Week: The Most Serene Republic

[December 3-10]
The Most Serene Republic
Sounds Like: Indie Rock
Drinking Buddies: Broken Social Scene, Do Make Say Think, The Arcade Fire.
Synopsis: One spoonful arty-rock, two dashes of Canadian seasoning; mix well in bowl until it looks like modern art.
Makes You Want To...: Lower volume/seek earplugs; Paint; Move to Canada.
[Myspace]






One week, one band. You know the drill.
This week, the featured artist is The Most Serene Republic.


December is here. New month, new bands. That sounds like a good theory. When I think new bands, and when I think about good bands, the four words that I lavishly lick off my lips is The Most Serene Republic.

The Most Serene Republic is a catchy, quirky sextet of art students from Toronto. They hail from the Arts & Crafts label, touted formally as "the first band on the Arts & Crafts label that has no members associated with Broken Social Scene." Seeing how Broken Social Scene is quite domineering (granted, they're sort of amazing and stuff) on Arts & Crafts, this is quite a thing to brag about.

But don't their gallivanting family throw you off. Though The Most Serene Republic is the new cousin to the family, they hold their own against the mega-giants from BSS. Playing a catchy, unique modern-indie rock, they weave around with their music, searching for inspiration and experimentation. They have a taste of orchestral rock that all modern Canadian bands seem to have these day, and have an intense "wall of sound" factor (AKA: when they want to, they can be REALLY loud). With two albums, including their first, Underwater Cinematographer, which has recieved a good bit of credit in its circulation, as well as an EP under their belt, TMSR seeks to make just as bold a name as their Arts and Crafts brethren.


The Most Serene Republic recently released their second album, Population, to rave reviews by indie blogs and whatnot (they earn my eentro-net props, even though I haven't formally reviewed the album). They have also released a video for their first single off the album, "The Men Who Live Upstairs," which was featured on Voilà! a week or so ago. Obviously, also they have their own handy-dandy Myspace that you should add. Everyone have a nice week!

Girl Talk.

Tonight, I give you a band, or should I say a man whose remixes will blow your mind, or better yet your ear drums for that matter. As some of you may remember, my first and only blog was about a festival that music listeners would sell a kidney for. Pitchfork Music Festival. Attending the festival that weekend, was re-mixer Girl Talk. He takes samples from music of all types. Ranging from hip-hop to indie. And may I be the first to say he makes it sound GOOD! His songs are unlike any other, and will even have your mother tapping her foot to the beat.

Interested, head on over to his myspace, give him a listen, and throw a dance party if need be.

Recommendations:
Knife (Grizzly Bear Remix).
Let's Call It Off (Peter Bjorn & John Remix).

All I Want For Christmas Is You (Mariah Carrey) - Danger: Radio

Who knew they boys had it in them? In celebration of the joyous Christmas season, Danger: Radio has covered Mariah Carrey's All I Want For Christmas Is You, with guest vocals by Nic Newsham from Gatsby's American Dream. Can you pop up a poppy song? Danger: Radio says yes! You can listen to the song below, but if you want to snag it, wander over here.

Rockets Fall On Rocket Falls - Godspeed You! Black Emperor

In my amblings across the interweb, I come across about a zillion things that are really interesting to me.
Keep in mind, that just about anything can interest me, and a zillion is a lot.

Anyway, I came across this some time ago and thought I would share it. It is a video set to Rockets Fall On Rocket Falls by Godspeed You! Black Emperor.


Now for those who aren't savvy in indie rock, Godspeed You! Black Emperor is a post-rock/avant-garde group hailing from Montreal, Canada. They play a supremely unique style of post-rock that not only sets them apart from basically everyone in the genre, but also distances themselves from basically everyone in modern music in general. They play at a near orchestral scale, choosing to compose their songs in movements rather than the typical Verse-Chorus-etc. format. In lamest terms, they make their music in the same fashion as classical music. Their shortest song (on cd) is 6 minutes or so, and that was just the continuation of another song anyway. Their average song will keep you listening for about 15+ minutes.

If you're not the type for older stuff, don't let the notions of classical music scare you. GY!BE is renowned in their experimental field as one of the best in the business. Their style is emulated by insurmountable amounts of post-rock bands. GY!BE formed back in the 90s, and have only released three albums (and an EP), but for now are on an indefinite hiatus.


And for personal reference, many of the GY!BE members are anarchists, and it really shows with political undertones in their music. They're very anti-mainstream, and it shows. This it the first half of Rockets Fall On Rocket Falls, with a brief introduction. I think video captures the song PERFECTLY! Hope you like it.

Band of the Week: Marry a Thief

[November 26 - December 2]
Marry A Thief
Sounds Like: Indie/Singer-Songwriter
Drinking Buddies: Obadiah Parker, Ryan Adams, Coldplay
Synopsis: Emotionally driven acoustic music, with a electric twang at times.
Makes You Want To...: Sing; Write poetry; Love
[Myspace]






One week, one band. You know the drill.
This week, the featured artist is the Marry a Thief.


Lonely ol' November is winding up for its last swing at bat. Next week all the leaves will have departed from their trees, the department stores will be even more crowded, all the leftover turkey will have been eaten, and any remnants of Halloween will be discarded in favor of pine trees with lights all over them. But it's not all chilly and sad out there, we're entering one of the most joyous seasons around! Let's give November it's due and proper, one last time.

Marry a Thief is a trio hailing from Columbia, South Carolina. Formerly the solo act of Eric Skelton (you listened to him, right?!), a couple extra band members materialized out nowhere to make a little band with a beautiful brand of music. Taking Skelton's already sweet, soothing lyrical prowess and sensitive acoustic guitar-jamming, and giving it a pick-me-up that only the sound a full band can produce, Marry a Thief brings a luscious brand of original music to your ears!


Frankly, it was hard for me to say what kind of music they DO play. Their style encompasses a lot of different sounds; a little country, and little folky, a little indie, and much more. Don't let my wavering explanations change your mind, go check them out! Eric Skelton has his own record, Some Other City, for sale still, as well as Marry a Thief's more recent release, One More Smile, Fake As the Night is Blue, both for sale on their Myspace. They'd love it if you checked out the site and maybe left them a comment!

Turkeys! LOL, OMG!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

FROM VOILA!

Band of the Week: Math and Physics Club

[November 19-25]
Math and Physics Club
Sounds Like: Indie-Pop
Drinking Buddies: Suburban Kids With Biblical Names, The Lucksmiths, Tullycraft
Synopsis: Wittily wordy indie-pop with catchy tunes.
Makes You Want To...: Ride a bike; Smile; Tell a joke
[Myspace]





One week, one band. You know the drill.
This week, the featured artist is the Math and Physics Club.


Thanksgiving - a time to give thanks to what we love most. Friends, family, and great food! If that can't get you smiling for the week, I have a hunch there's a certain quintet out there that can do the job swimmingly.

Math and Physics Club. The name recalls that nerdy group of kids (in high school) who would spend their lunch huddled in a classroom talking about numbers. The group translates perfectly to the science department at your local university. Math and Physics Club almost harbors the same mood. Using witty, intellectually driven lyrics, mixed with head-nodding indie-pop, and very feel good vibes, it's hard to come up with any criticism for these folks.

MAPC have been around for nearing on four years now, and have a delightfully substantial album collection under their belt. You must be sure to give thanks for the delightful melodies by visiting their Myspace, and maybe even their personal website, where you'll undoubtedly come across the sale of their delicious albums! Get those turkey's ready for Thursday!

Bell Orchestre's Unreleased Album

Hardly believable, and what a find. While randomly surfing the interweb, I came across a blag called The Torture Garden. I've only glanced at the site briefly, and they have some interesting articles, so check them out.

That's not the point.

The point is, they had an article up back in May releasing a crazy find: the unreleased demo, studio produced (or at least convincingly recorded), self titled album by Bell Orchestre.

For those not in the know, Bell Orchestre is a group of crazy Canadian post-rockers, a good amount of which use it as a side project to the one and only Arcade Fire. They had a nice quick bit of success of with the release of their previous album, Recording A Tape the Colour of Light, but as most members were consumed with Arcade Fire festivities as well as other activities, they've been somewhat out of the musical loop for the last three or so years.

But apparently, instead of simply recording colour and light on a tape, they previously recorded, yet neglected to release, a self titled endeavor which is every bit as epic as their officially released content. I've only given it a quick listen, but from what I've heard, it is an easy rival to Recording A Tape! Definitely winning most notable song is "Noviembre." But The Torture Garden supplies the entire album in zip format. So check it!

Download the entire Bell Orchestre Demo

"The Men Who Live Upstairs" - The Most Serene Republic

New video by the Arts & Crafts cohorts The Most Serene Republic for their song, "The Men Who Live Upstairs," off their new album, Population. They've got a church room filled with a charming group of prominent, pompous individuals all dressed in Victorian outfits. I think the concept is similar to The Masque of the Red Death by Edgar Allan Poe. After a little while, the snooty people watchign MSR get fussy about the wall of sound that hits them (though you can't blame them there). Then they start keeling off for no readily apparent reason, though the title to the video mentions "The Plague of Eminence."

Draw your own conclusions. Regardless, this is a great song and a good bearing for Population.

The Hogwarts Tonsil Hockey Team - Harry and the Potters

Since one article about Harry and the Potters didn't seem to be enough to quell me for the week, I decided to feature a song. "The Hogwarts Tonsil Hockey Team" is from Harry and the Potters' split 7" with The Zambonis, and is bundles are fun. If you want a download, sneak to their Virb, where they have lots of songs for download.

Band of the Week: Harry and the Potters

[November 12-18]
Harry and the Potters
Sounds Like: Wizard Rock
Drinking Buddies: Mates Of State, They Might Be Giants, Led Zeppelin
Synopsis: Dork rock that makes you dance and can help you cast a patronus charm.
Makes You Want To...: Read; dance; crash a Gryffindor common room party.
[Myspace]





One week, one band. You know the drill.
This week, the featured artist is Harry and the Potters.

So the Deathly Hallows came out already, and even if you haven't read how the whole Harry Potter series comes to a conclusion, you've probably heard from all the talk going about. Between lawsuits with Rowling, Daniel Radcliff showing up on the theatre stage naked with horses, Dumbledore being gay, and the Half-Blood Prince movie not coming to the big screen until next November, where could a Harry Potter addict possibly find more sojourn?

Wizard rock, for those who didn't know, is modern day filk. No, filk isn't an obscenity; it merely speaks of science-fiction based music. And the resurgence of the sub-genre with a Harry Potter angle is all thanks to the boys of Harry and the Potters.

These boys have been rocking the Hogwarts uniforms for quite a while now, and haven't slowed down any. Just recently releasing The Enchanted Ceiling for a special Wizard Rock organization that promotes literacy, not to mention having an upcoming Christmas song on Jingle Spells (mentioned a few entries ago), they know how to have fun. Singing Harry Potter inspired lyrics with a somewhat minimalist style of music, Harry and the Potters are perfect for any Harry Potter fan. You've got to check out their Myspace. You can find out more about Jingle Bells right here. Also, The Enchanted Ceiling is almost sold out, but if you sign up for the wizard rock monthly now, you'll get the entire year's worth of albums by all sorts of wizard rock bands, with The Enchanted Ceiling included.


Also, for those lucky folks who might be in Massachusetts, you'll definitely want to attend Yule Ball 2007. They have some of the best wizard rock bands around going there for a real Christmas party, WIZARD STYLE! Find out more here. For the rest of us, we can dream right?

Worries On My Chest - Cullen Rollins

That silly Cullen Rollins has himself a new song, "Worries On My Chest." Using catchy acoustic guitar riffs, nifty vocals and lyrics, cymbals, and great musical thematics, could this possibly be a taste of the full-band Cullen's been thinking of starting? We'll soon see. Check out Cullen's Myspace, download some of his songs, add him, and give him a holler. He'd love it.

As a post-script, you should also run over to Cullens' side-project, Action Blaster Kid. He has a lot of trippy techno-esque beats, including one Powerpuff Girls orriented one.

Jingle Spells For Christmas 2007

Okay, granted, it's only the second week in November. Who wants to think about Christmas now? Thanksgiving hasn't even passed, and even though everyone and their mother knows that Christmas is right around the corner, and after we've had all our post-turkey naps we'll have to struggle our way waste deep in muggles to get into the Christmas shopping.

Well he's a good sign of the coming Christmas that you can take advantage of now. And yes, I did say muggles, because this year you can spend your Christmas with wizards. The Leaky Cauldron, notorious blog-anthology-thing for Harry Potter nerds, is doing their yearly act of charity. Every year, they hold of sale with the intention of giving away all proceeds to Book Aid, a foundation which promotes literacy. Nice eh?

This year, they're doing something a tad different. They're presenting Jingle Spells: Leaky's Rocking Christmas 2007 as their fund raiser. Jingle Spells is a compilation of your favorite Wizard Rock artists singing joyous Potter-related Christmas songs.

If you've been missing out on the fun, there's his whole new genre of music known as Wizard Rock, which specializes in music strictly about wizards, unicorns, and the Harry Potter universe. It's a pretty big deal, and about as independent as music gets these days.

Jingle Spells is essentially Sufjan Stevens' Songs For Christmas without the long song titles and banjos. Bouncy, eclectic wizard rock from the best in the genre (including Harry and the Potters, Draco and the Malfoys, and Ginny and the Heartbreakers (I'm not making these names up)). And I must say, I can't WAIT for the Gred and Forge's song "The Twelve Days Of Wizard Christmas" and The Moaning Myrtles "Wrocking Around The Bathroom."

Why tell you all this pre-Thanksgiving then? Because The Leaky Cauldron is selling this only for limited release. You have to put your orders in before December 10th. Sure, you have a lot of time, but you definitely don't want to miss your chance to grab this limited album. Be sure to mosey on over to The Leaky Cauldron and place your order, not to mention check out the playlist with previews of the songs.

Album Review: Punch Your Lights Out EP - Danger: Radio

It has been long time waiting, but FINALLY, after many months of being forced to refresh their Myspace page, Danger: Radio is releasing their EP, Punch Your Lights Out, on iTunes. Before now, Danger: Radio had only been selling at their shows, a sure let down to fans who hadn't been able to see them. No longer!

I've been crazy for Danger: Radio for longer than I care to remember. I picked on them along with Andrew De Torres' exploits with The Scene Aesthetic, way back before D:R somehow got their original Myspace deleted. Since then, I've been able to see their style of music grow and evolve in ways that I'd be forced to use adjectives that are synonymous to "good."

Danger: Radio is a crazy little quintet out of Washington who's forte is for the wild and dancey. With an eccentric, and truly unique form of dance rock, mixing classic 80s vibes and funk, with modern rock and alt.-indie vibes and their fun/singable lyrics, these guys just have the need to party coming out of every section of your speakers. I have never failed in showing Danger: Radio to a friend and not see them desperately hide the embarrassment when they realized their body naturally had started moving to the groove.

D:R's style for Punch Your Lights Out is refined from their completely original sound, previously heard on their limited released album, The Difference Between Love and Envy; but their new material is perfected, mastered, and a real treat. Essentially, this is a compilation of all the demos they've produced over the past year or so, but ever so worth the measly 5$ it will cost you. All 5 songs on the EP keep the mood, and keep your body moving the entire time. Party Foul gets funky down to a science, while you get a taste of the latest D:R offers with two of their more recent works, Sparkle Baby Shine and Keep It Up.

The Punch Your Lights Out EP is a huge break and relief from the serious and introspective mumbo-jumbo that music sometimes gets dragged down in. This will stretch out you limbs and get you on your feet! Warning: Side effects may be random dance parties and fun times. In some severe cases, extreme euphoria has been noted in listeners. In the event that happiness continues for longer than the length of the album, please be sure to contact your local physicians at Danger: Radio's Myspace to catch some of their latest material.

Band of the Week: Pants Yell!

[November 5-11]
Pants Yell!
Sounds Like: Indie Pop
Drinking Buddies: Suburban Kids With Biblical Names, Math and Physics Club
Synopsis: Smile!
Makes You Want To...: Play catch; Walk through the park.
[Myspace]





One week, one band. You know the drill.
This week, the featured artist is Pants Yell!


Pants Yell! are some silly boys out of Cambridge, Massachusetts who are keeping things bouncy with their eccentric blend of indie pop with intelligent lyrics. But mostly they want to have fun, which they achieve admirably. They've been getting a bit of spotlight with the release of their latest album, Alison Staton. But I'd suggest, if you can play vinyl, grabbing their 7" EP, Paper Cities, which sounds most delightful.

They have all their albums for sale on their Myspace, which I suggest you wander over to check them out. And before you push Pants Yell! as just another random indie pop band with comedic use of exclamation marks in their name, listen to Not So City Life. It'll have you dancing in no time.

Brown Recluse Sings Releases New EP

As mentioned several weeks ago when I featured them for the week, Brown Recluse Sings has gotten together to put out their latest EP, The Soft Skin. Four delightful tracks that will have you smiling like no other. You'll definitely want to snag it when it comes out next week, on the 13th. Check out their Myspace, or their blog, for further info.

This Will Destroy You Unleashes New Album Onslaught

Yesterday, the boys from This Will Destroy You made a huge announcement.

First off their new album, a self-titled LP, has been announced for pre-order, starting now. Second, they're releasing two versions, a double LP in vinyl, as well as the packaged cd release, all of which has been recorded by John Congleton (Explosions In The Sky, Modest Mouse, et. al).

As if this wasn't enough, they are continuing with their fall/winter tour of America. AND, they released two songs from the new album, which are both great. This Will Destroy You is really spoiling us!

If you want to grab the new album for pre-order (why not? they give free shirts?!), step right up here (but be aware, you have to use PayPal). Need tour dates and new songs? Their Myspace has that covered from top to bottom.

Retread Sessions: "A Tender History In Rust" - Do Make Say Think

So I'm wandering around the internet and obviously eventually landed myself at Pitchfork, where I found myself following an interesting article.


KUT, college radio for the lovely folks down in Austin, Texas, have this new program they've started called Retread Sessions. The idea is to film the artist performing live, in a new and strange way that provides ingenuity for the artist in their performance, and a sweet/weird/interesting form of live video performance.

They've filmed a few artists, most of which are somewhat obscure and I don't know much about (Shearwater, Black Before Red, Yacht).

But the latest Retread Sessions video is of none other than the crazy Canadian post-rockers, Do Make Say Think. Filmed in a lonely golden field of tall grass somewhere around Austin, the sensitive instrumental almost sounds country considering the locale. It's a beautiful performance, check it out.

Playlist: All Hallow's Eve

Halloween, that day when all the evil ghouls, goblins, witches, warlocks, and generally scary things come out to haunt the living. As the land is slowly consumed by vampires and zombies for the night, it would be keen to ward of any angry beasts with some equally angry, sardonic, morbid music. This playlist is less about Halloween, and more about grabbing the freaky, scary, spooky, mood that this holiday of demons brings out. Very fast, very loud, with emphasis toward modern emo/post-hardcore bands. If you really want to hear some wild music, well this would be the trick-or-treat you've been looking for.




Song - Artist
[Album]
___________________________________




USA Nails - The Blood Brothers
[...Burn, Piano Island, Burn]

Unholy Confessions - Avenged Sevenfold
[Waking The Fallen]

Advice (Instrumental) - The Pillows
[FLCL OST 1]

Stay On The Ground - Armor For Sleep
[What To Do When You Are Dead]

Negative Creep - Nirvana
[Bleach]

Legends Die - Bleed The Dream
[Built by Blood]

One Day Women Will All Become Monsters - Chiodos
[All's Well That Ends Well]

No Don't Shoot - Foxy Shazam!
[The Flamingo Trigger]

It's Dangerous Business Walking Out Your Front Door - Underoath
[They're Only Chasing Safety]

World War Me - From First To Last
[Heroine]

Needles - System Of A Down
[Toxicity]

Just A Little - The Used
[Maybe Memories]

The City Sleeps In Flames - Scary Kids Scaring Kids
[The City Sleeps In Flames]

Headlines - Neon Blonde
[Headlines]

Believer - Kill Hannah
[Until Theres Nothing Left Of Us]


On The Brightside, She Could Choke - Fear Before The March Of Flames
[Odd How People Shake]

Vampires Will Never Hurt You - My Chemical Romance
[I Brough You My Bullets, You Brought Me Your Love]

American Death - Senses Fail
[Let It Enfold You]

Smile In Your Sleep - Silverstein
[Discovering The Waterfront]

Head Club - Taking Back Sunday
[Tell All Your Friends]

The Car In 20 - The Early November
[The Mother, The Mechanic, and The Path]

Young Dudes Release Debut LP

Honestly, I don't know the first thing about the Young Dudes, but they got a name drop from One For The Team, so I checked them out. I can say honestly, I'm pretty impressed. They are releasing their debut, self-titled LP, today. Wander over to Young Dudes' Myspace and give them a listen.

Band of the Week: Organic Groove

[October 29 - November 4]
Organic Groove
Sounds Like: Jam Band
Drinking Buddies: The Allman Brothers Band, The String Cheese Incident
Synopsis: Laid back jamming. Chill brah.
Makes You Want To...: Groove?; Chill out
[Myspace]





One week, one band. You know the drill.
This week, the featured artist is Organic Groove.



Coming straight out of Fort Worth(less), Texas, the quintet Organic Groove. Formerly under the moniker of Macrolizard, I've been going to OG's shows for quite some time. I'm friends of 3/5 of the members, and easily said, Organic Groove is a fun band.

Taking after the old school style of The Allman Brothers, Phish, etc., Organic Groove provides a laid back style of jamming, with plenty of guitar instrumentals that make you smile. They have an album (sort of), but I'm not sure they're selling it. Want it? I'd suggest you speak with those crazy guys; be sure to check them out on their Myspace. And grab a few of their songs while you're at it - I'd especially suggest Light Up or Leave Me Alone."

Flash Flash Revolution

I'm going out on the bold assumption that just about everyone these days knows about Dance Dance Revolution. It's caused quite big news topic over the years since its creation.

For those of you who may have been living under a rock, DDR is a dance oriented video game where you break down your dance moves to different songs on the game, typically house/dance/techno stuff. Arrows which fly up on the tv screen in front of you, and your job is to match your movements to them respectively, with as much timed accuracy as possible on a dance pad below your feet.

I, frankly, suck at DDR.


It's not the quick reflex part - I'm good with my reflexes. And it's not the essential puzzle system which the combination of directions create; I work wonders at Guitar Hero, which follows essentially the same process. The difference is, I'm very hand-eye coordinated. This is why expert on Guitar Hero is a yawner for me. I am not foot-eye coordinated. My feet just don't respond like that; I can't get them to go to the right places. I just don't have that sort of talent. But I've played DDR, and even though I'm horrible, it's really fun, and quite addicting. What am I to do?



There is a new outlet for me, and the hundreds of people who also suck at DDR but want to participate. It's called FFR, or Flash Flash Revolution.

FFR has all the lovely business that DDR holds, including the addiction, without all that silly dancing rubbish. Using your keyboard arrows, you try to time clicking down to the wire in the same way as DDR. It's great fun, and you get to here some interesting dancey music that you might not here otherwise. I'm not going to lie, Mocha Ocean - Yamajet is a pretty sweet song that I probably would have listened to without the game. And c'mon, you can play to a remix of Legend Of Zelda, why would you deny?


If you happen to get an account, be sure to add me as a friend, and during the sign up process, say I referenced you! I get points or something. =]


http://www.flashflashrevolution.com/

The Scene Aesthetic Launch Texas Tour

Bittersweet news for Scene Aesthetic fans.
As most who follow them will know by now, Eric Bowley, The Scene Aesthetic's other vocalist, has been serving with a mission in Argentina for quite some time now. Since his leaving, the band has been under the control of Andrew de Torres (lead singer of Danger: Radio too!), and they've been doing a couple shows here and there. They also re-realeased their first LP, Building Homes From What We Know.


Now, TSA, minus Eric, plus a guest singer, are launching on a small tour down to Texas (in my area of the state), to appease the masses of folks that like them down here. Sadly, this is going to be the last Scene Aesthetic tour for a good year, as they plan not to do anything until Eric returns from his missionary work.



Oct. 26 - 169 in Wichita Falls
Oct. 27 - Live@Mokah in Dallas
Nov. 2 - The Door in Dallas




They will be doing some filming specifically to send down to Eric on the November 2nd show, to which I hope to be going to! I'm a bit... wary, of their guest singer (who is it? how is he going to sound?) but I've always digged The Scene Aesthetic since before they had much music to play in the first place. I never got the chance to pick up their album, or see them live, but if I do, you'll expect to here about it.

Minus the Bear Live at The Palladium

Minus the Bear has just recently released their latest album, Planet Of Ice, this August, and have now been pursuing their tour for the album. They stopped by Dallas at The Palladium Ballroom to show their fans that their recent surge of popularity hasn't hindered how much fun they can have.

The Palladium, as I'm aware, is a fairly new venue in Dallas. If it is older, then the combo of Granada Theater and Gypsy Tea Room must have overshadowed it. In any case, the closing of Gypsy Tea Room has brought The Palladium into new spotlight. It's nice, no doubts there; fairly large, and has a huge dance floor. It didn't seem to have too many issues with crowding, though granted I got there early. The Palladium also has a second club, The Loft, which !!! played at not too long ago. But I digress.

Minus the Bear was touring with Tiny Vipers and The Helio Sequence. The Tiny Vipers came on first. They're a girl-boy duo of acoustic-bass guitars, respectively. They use a distinct style of minimalism to produce powerfully subtle ambiance. They really remind me of Grizzly Bear with their song structure, except Tiny Viper's songs tend to run longer. Jesy Fortino, the lead singer/guitarist, has a voice that is uncannily like Grace Slick from Jefferson Airplane. Essentially, Tiny Vipers are very doctrine in a mix of folk and ambiance. Unfortunately, opening for someone so fast and loud as Minus the Bear, they weren't exactly playing toward their target audience. Most people became restless and impatient while they played through their set. Tiny Vipers is more of the band better heard with place to think, not in a busy live venue.



But then The Helio Sequence took the stage and quickly grabbed everyone's attention. The Helio Sequence is a two man guitar/drum outfit that plays a quick indie rock. Think of them as a skewed version of The White Stripes. THS is quite entertaining, and for being such a small band, they know how to have a strong stage presence, not to mention a lot of fun.





But none could hold a card with Minus the Bear. They demand the attention they get. Erin Tate keeps the beat bouncing and flowing while Snider, Knudson, Murchy, and Rose rock out across the stage blaring their accurately timed notes. They mostly played Planet Of Ice material, which was to be expected, but touch on songs from their other albums a bit. Their encore was lpanned, but they opened the encore with Absinthe Party, so I'm not about to complain. Overall the show was great, and I'm definitely interested in catching them when they aren't touring for a new album.