Don't Think Twice, It's All Right

Rebuilt Tranny Records

2010-12-26T14:55:00.003-05:00

Since I will no longer be posting I'd just thought I'd let you know about my friend Corbin's music site Rebuilt Tranny Records. He rips all his music from vinyl records he owns and posts them to listen to, he also adds a loving spoonful of off-the-wall commentary sure to make your head spin. Check him out.

2010-06-06T15:50:00.003-04:00

So I havent posted in 6 months, sorry to busy with work and tennis. If anyone wants to take this thing over plz email me

FUTURE TRENDS - Palace of Dust

2010-01-20T17:17:00.003-05:00

FUTURE TRENDS, has been recently mentioned in NME (here) and Pitchfork (here). Both instances are well deserved and earned. FUTURE TRENDS is Andrew Clark, a fellow cincinnati-an, ohioan, and good friend. He recently played his first show with Enlou (another great Cincy band). Palace of Dust is personal as much as its electronic, as dance-y as it is nostalgic. Some songs will make you remember your first relationships when anything was possible. A single kiss could send you into orbit. Palace of Dust came to me self labeled as "Space Pop" an accurate and telling title. With hand and sweat beats, Andrew makes all these "big hip hop or electronic producers" look like hot garbage. Another thing I must mention is Andrews voice, it pours and drips out like that bottle of chocolate hardshell. Just dont keep this in pantry or fridge, leave it out for everyone to enjoy. My favorite tracks are "Darkness" and "Sometimes Things Don't Match Up". Here.

FUTURE TRENDS MYSPACE

Spoon - +ransference

2010-01-16T12:58:00.003-05:00

Another solid album from Spoon here. Favorites include, "Nobody Gets Me But You", "The Mystery Zone", and "Who Makes Your Money". Here.

Midlake - The C0urage of 0thers

2010-01-02T12:09:00.002-05:00

Long awaited follow up from the great "The Trials of Van Occupanther". I had read articles about this release, and the band made a decision not to make another Van Occupanther, they said they starting listening to a lot of British Folk and it shows in this album. While the songs on this album aren't very much like "Roscoe", they are beautifully textured and layered. Thick like honey and relaxing as a massage. After a couple of listens its clear that after the vocals the drums are what drives the songs. This band continues to surprise me, and is becoming one of my favorites out there. My favorite songs are "Fortune", "Acts Of Man", and "Small Mountain". Here.

Merry Christmas

2009-12-24T17:24:00.001-05:00

My Morning Jacket Does Xmas

B1akroc - ST

2009-11-29T22:57:00.004-05:00

A new musical project from one time Roca-Fella records co-owner Damon Dash, working with the Blues Rock band "The Black Keys" to create Blakroc, a hip hop album with the Keys slaying the tracks while rappers such as RZA, Raekwon, Mos Def, and Ol' Dirty Bastard spit. Check it out Here!!!. Good Tracks are "Telling Me Things (feat. RZA)", "Stay Off The F*%$#n’ Flowers (feat. Raekwon)", and "Done Did It (feat. Nicole Wray & NOE)"

Tim and Eric - Awesome Record, Great Song

2009-11-27T13:21:00.003-05:00

If you are a fan of this surrealist sketch comedy show. This album is a must. 49 songs made famous by the show, including covers by Built To Spill and The Shins. My Favorites are the Michael Mcdonald-ish Rolo Tony (Uncut), Marcama, and Come Over. If you dont know of the show, these songs will have no real relevance and not be as funny as they are if you know the skits to which they go with. Part 1, Part 2.

Beach House - T33n Dream

2009-11-21T12:04:00.004-05:00

A heavily anticipated follow up to "Devotion", Beach House improves upon their atmospheric vibe. Like a fog rolling in on a North Carolina shore, the music seems to surround you. Each song blends together making the album seem like one long piece of music rather than one song after another. Let the Fog in here (Part 1) (Part 2), my favorite songs "10 Mile Stereo" - the closest to a rocker you will get, the cheery piano of "Used To Be", and the single "Norway" complete with slide guitars.

Animal Co11etive - Fall Be Kind

2009-11-19T22:49:00.002-05:00

Excellent new EP. No review necessary just get it OK.

Gil Mantera's Party Dream - Bloodsongs

2009-11-15T22:11:00.002-05:00

If you need a good party album, you have found your treasure. Released in 2006, has yet to get the respect or publicity it deserves. Purposefully funny and epic lyrics, great robot voices, guitar solo's, and electronic beats that make even doing laundry feel like a Saturday night. Best songs for me are, the opener "Buffalo Tears", robotic Ecstasy in "Elmo's Wish", and the cheery "Brave New Christmas". Get IT

Why? - Eskimo Snow (Demos)

2009-11-15T22:06:00.002-05:00

Nice little Demo package from one of the best albums this year. Also includes an original mix of "The Hollows" which was on Alopecia. Tracklist below- Here

These Hands (Demo)
January Twenty Something (Demo)
Against Me (Demo)
Into the Shadows of My Embrace (Demo)
On Rose Walk, Insomniac (Demo)
This Blackest Purse (Demo)
The Hollows (Original Demo)

AA Bondy - When The Devils Loose

2009-11-15T22:00:00.003-05:00

A really solid album after his first solo release. Essentially more of the same dark barn folk, but a little more electric guitar in songs. One of my current favorite singer-songwriters, a very visual (literate) lyricist. With words and chords that will keep you warm like a glass of bourbon on your hunting perch. Here

Enlou - Threshing Floor

2009-10-24T12:21:00.003-04:00

This is a Cincinnati based band, consisting of some friends of mine. This is their second EP, they are currently on Lujo records. Threshing Floor has four extremely good tracks. Please check it out, and let me know what you think. My favorite song is Easing Out. Enjoy

Junior Boys - In The Morning (Single)

2009-10-24T11:50:00.002-04:00

A single release from one of my new favorite bands. Track list is...
1. In The Morning
2. In The Morning (Alex Smoke Mix)
3. The Equalizer
4. The Equalizer (Morgan Geist Graphic Mix)
5. So Sleep (A)

Like everything these guys do, its very worth your time. Enjoy

Dead Man's Bones - ST

2009-10-24T11:37:00.002-04:00

This is the first album by Ryan Gosling's band. I have been looking forward to this release since I heard that he had a band. This is a pretty cool album, perfect for the season, as its all about Halloween. Complete with a spectacular children's choir, lots of clapping, good but off beat drums, gouls, goblins, and everything you'd want from a concept piece. I also enjoyed finding out that the band set up to only take a handful of takes for each song, which allows for mess-ups, laughs, and noises to be included on the recordings. Great tracks are My Body's A Zombie For You, Pa Pa Power, and Young & Tragic. Enjoy

The Flaming Lips - Embry0nic

2009-09-20T22:02:00.003-04:00

The Flaming Lips have set the bars high after "At War With The Mystics", and in my opinion Embryonic delivers. Its not as clear or concise as "At War..." but its of equal quality. The first thing you'll notice is that the Lips have gone back to the old psychedelic noise rock that they grew a cult following doing in the late 80's and early 90's, we welcome it with open arms. In an age where bands pop up everyday seemingly just doing their own version of music inspired by one specific band, The Flaming Lips appear to be a band that cannot be re-produced or copied. The album features the drums very predominately, like in "The Soft Bulletin" to which most of us is very exciting. The guitars and noise creates a haze, like a fog rolling over the streets on a late sunday night, it only enhances the overall effect of the album, an oxymoron keeping it steady and uneasy at the same time. My favorites are "Watching The Planets", "Silver Trembling Hands", and "The Ego's Last Stand". Enjoy

Junior Boys - So This Is Goodbye

2009-09-12T21:14:00.003-04:00

Sorry for the long break in posts, I moved, got a new job, etc. Anyways, I have also been hard up to find much new stuff to upload. Anyways here is another great Junior Boys album. The first song will grab you. Their music is pretty relaxing, perfect for a ping pong match in my opinion, or hanging outside on a porch with some good friends. Enjoy

Why? - Eskimo Snovv

2009-07-29T19:48:00.003-04:00

This heavily anticipated album from the alternative rock/hip-hop group leaked a couple days ago, the past few days at work its all I can listen to. Do yourself a favor and get it now. Best tracks are Into The Shadows Of My Embrace, Eskimo Snow, and January Twenty Something. But every song is well worth the listen. Here

New great site - Rebuilt Tranny

2009-07-15T17:38:00.005-04:00

A great site from a good friend, he is going through the process of digitalizing all his rare/weird records. As a friend who has sat with him through some of his current and future posts, there are some really great albums that will be posted. If you love rare music here is where to go.

Moon

2009-07-12T21:47:00.002-04:00

Please go see this movie.

Junior Boys - Begone Dull Care

2009-07-12T14:32:00.004-04:00

Third album from this electronic duo from Canada. An excellent offering to the music world, not as fast paced as most electronic music but better in my opinion. The beats are slower, Junior Boys let the beats sink into your bloodstream and take control. The opening track "Parallel Lines" is probably my favorite, for some reason the beat makes me think of the film Escape From New York. "Hazel" is another great song from this album, probably the most danceable as well. "Work" is another fantastic song, sounds like an LCD Soundsystem track. This may not be the best album for a saturday night party, but is perfect for a relaxing time after work. Enjoy here.

Why? - Eskimo Snow - News

2009-07-08T15:26:00.005-04:00

Here is the latest on Why?'s upcoming album Eskimo Snow, the follow up to the fucking incredible "Alopecia".

Story

Link to video

And also due to the positive response from the "Eskimo Snow (Sock Hop Version)", I found the album Version, Here.

And, finally for all of you still enthraled with Alopecia, I found the complete "Alopecia Demos" Here.

Spoon - ETC

2009-07-08T10:35:00.006-04:00

Recently got some older stuff by Spoon, and thought i would upload them. Also their newest EP.

First up is the single "The Agony of Laffitte" from their album "Series Of Sneaks". Here

Next is "Car Radio" single another off of "Series Of Sneaks". Here

And Now their New EP "Got Nuffin", hope this will keep you satisfied till their next release. Here

Telephono, is their release from 1996, crazy to think about how long they have been around. Not as polished or minimalistic as their music now. But still very good, and definetely worth the time. Fav tracks are Dont Buy The Realistic, and Nefarious. Enjoy

Soft Effects is an EP released in 1997, all songs are really really good. If you were to add a few more songs to this it would be a hell of an album. Enjoy.

Yim Yames - Tribute To [EP]

2009-07-08T10:30:00.002-04:00

Most will know that Yim Yames is actually Jim James of MMJ. This EP is a collection of George Harrison solo songs, as well as a few Beatles tunes. MMJ will be on hiatus for awhile, after years and years of releases and touring, so Jim James solo projects will hopefully keep you hooked. Enjoy Here

Congrats Roger on #15

2009-07-07T10:24:00.001-04:00

WHY? - Etc

2009-06-29T22:00:00.004-04:00

First up is a WHY? MP3 put up to draw attention to a cause to help the Sudanese people. Check out the link to see how you can help by buying a Vinyl mix, with songs from Why?, Jim O'Rourke, Dan Deacon, and Mount Eerie. All money made goes to the cause, please help out if you can.
Eskimo Snow MP3

Rubber Traits (EP)

Sanddollars (EP)

Grizzly Bear - Veckatimest

2009-06-24T12:10:00.003-04:00

After listening to the band's side project Department Of Eagles and their latest album "In Ear Park", I thought it would be really tough for the band to top it, not to mention their fantastic album "Yellow House". But they proved me very wrong. This album lived up to the months and years of hype, and all the shitty leaks that have been heavy throughout the internet for months. This is one of the best of the year so far, (i think i can say that since the year is about half over). Cant wait to see these guys at Pitchfork. The album was recorded in a small church, and the sound certainly matches the setting. My favorites are Two Weeks (backing vocals by Beach House s Victoria LeGrand), Cheerleader, While You Wait For The Others, and Southern Point. Enjoy

Part 1

Part 2

Raekwon - Only Built 4 Cuban Linx

2009-06-24T12:05:00.002-04:00

Just a great hip/hop album.

Part 1

Part 2

Bike For Three! - More Heart Than Brains

2009-06-13T12:40:00.003-04:00

Bike For Three! is comprised of Buck 65 (Canadian rapper from Anticon) and Belgian producer Joëlle Phuong Minh Lê. The two have never met, the project has been created across the ocean. This transatlantic effort has produced a really fucking good hip/hop album, the music is less "beats" and more atmospheric (not like the group) but the music creates the landscape, the scenery. The music keeps you planted as Buck 65's stories will sweep you into deeply specific and personal times and spaces. Favorites are Lazarus Phenomenon, Always I WIll Miss You. Always You., and The Departure. But this isn't an album that you can just listen to one song, you have to hear the whole thing. Enjoy.

FIRS - I Will Come Back As A Volcano

2009-06-10T16:14:00.004-04:00

FIRS is a band featuring friends of mine, the band is comprised of two people. The first is a very good friend of mine Sophia, who also works with Wise Blood and DJ's on Woxy on monday nights starting at 5. Woxy is a free independent internet music radio station. They play a lot of great stuff, so please check out her sets. The other member is Joey who is known most, for fronting the Cincinnati band The Pomegranates. FIRS is technically his side band, but I like it a lot more than the Pomegranates music. I think with FIRS being between two people instead of four, Joey has more overall control of the songwriting and also the direction of the music. The looseness of the songs reminds me of Daniel Johnston or Stephen Malkmus, Joey and Sophia aren't scared to switch up the pace and direction of the song at any point. I like this as for the first few listens you are on your toes wondering where they will take you next. Its certainly a great change from a lot of the bands who seem comfortable just keeping the laissez faire attitude. The sounds of this album range from bits that seem that they would come out of a gameboy to drum tracks to distorted guitars. Also another thing you will notice is Joey's very high pitched voice which I assure you adds to the beautiful insanity of the music. This album I am posting is there first, they are currently signed to Lujo Records and working on their follow up record "Man In Space", until then please enjoy this new favorite band of mine. Favorite songs off this are the opener "Whale In The Night", the great love ballad "For Myself Also", and the bass line of "On Your Side". Please Enjoy responsibly. Part 1, Part 2.

Their Myspace also.

Elephant Stone - The Seven Seas

2009-06-07T08:55:00.002-04:00

Elephant Stone is a band from Montreal, although from the sound you would assume they would be from somewhere between California and India. I say this because Rishi Dhir, the bands frontman, also plays the sitar on many of the songs off this album. At first when i heard about the sitar on this album i thought maybe it was just a way that they thought that they could stand out. But I couldn't be more wrong. The songs seem to be crafted very very well, the sitar adds such a beautiful and complex new sound to these light, summer songs. One blogger noticed the similarity between Dhir's voice and George Harrison, yes it is there, and to me quite noticeable. My favorites are I Am Blind, (the jam) Don't You Know, The Seven Seas, and Oh Heartbreaker. Enjoy.

Crocodiles - Summer Of Hate

2009-06-07T08:45:00.003-04:00

Found this as per a request a reader made. Thank you whoever you are. Summer Of Hate is the first album from this San Diego band. They have received a lot of buzz both good and bad, I really enjoyed this low-fi shoegaze rock album. This is a really solid album and I have been listening to it for the past couple weeks. My favorites are I Wanna Kill, Young Drugs, and Flash Of Light. Enjoy.

R.I.P. Jay Bennett

2009-05-25T17:16:00.001-04:00

Article

Wilco - Wilco (The Album)

2009-05-18T23:02:00.004-04:00

It was months ago when Wilco premiered the title track "Wilco the song" on the Colbert report. From then on for me it was a countdown until my favorite band, the band responsible for my musical tastes would come out with a new album. This one was quick Wilco seemed to slow down after A Ghost Is Born, and Sky Blue Sky wasn't what people expected. Some wanted them to keep with the sonic youth type sound experimentation, others wanted a return to the masters of folk who released A.M. and Being There. The result then was in-between. It took me awhile to learn to adopt Sky Blue Sky as a part of the Wilco family, but I am glad I did. This album has created a similar battle, same battle perhaps but new ground. Some say "boring" or "un-inspired" others say "brilliant", "best album this year". I dont have the knowledge or foresight to say either. All I can say is that, i enjoy this album, very much so. To me it seems absurd that Wilco fans would triumph that the band owes their fans anything. If anything we know Wilco as a band whose primary focus is music that they want to play. They are the artists, their job is to create things, songs, and pieces they are proud of and want to share. I am glad they shared this. Another talking point about this album is the total Wilco-ness of it, the album and title track named after the band. All I can say to that is, if you dont see the obvious joking manner of it all then you might want to re-consider your belief that you have a sense of humor. Jeff Tweedy is known for his jokes and also his self deprecation, this is just a manifestation of that. My favorite songs off this album are Bull Black Nova, You and I, Sunny Feeling, and Wilco The Song. Enjoy

Broken Social Scene Presents Kevin Drew - Spirit If

2009-05-11T20:12:00.004-04:00

Downloaded this album back when it was new, and forgot to ever give it a listen. But fortunately for me a dear friend had it in his car on a 45 minute drive. Thanks Andrew. Anyways a really sprawling album from one of the many members of Broken Social Scene. From this release you can tell how much input he had into a lot of the band's albums and songs. But Drew isn't alone Feist, Emily Haines (Metric), and Amy Millan (Stars), help out too. Not exactly a true solo album, but Drew has complete corntol of direction and landscape. Judging from this you cant really question his desire to have something to call his own. Other noteable helpers on this album are Dino Jr's J. Mascis (guitar and vocals on "Backed out on the..." and Pavement's Scott Kannberg on "Lucky Ones". Like my friend said "this like most BSS albums, takes a while to grow on you". So this treats repeat listens. Enjoy.

Panda Bear - Young Prayer

2009-05-11T15:20:00.003-04:00

Thanks to Lauren from Emerging Thoughts, for introducing me to this great release. Young Prayer was created by Panda Bear shortly after the death of his father. This intensely personal and touching album was also recorded in the same house his father died, there are no track names for a reason. There are none, this helps to keep the album more appealing to anyone. You can essentially put your own words or thoughts into the songs. Somewhat similar to what Sigur Ros is known for. The songs are all comprised of few vocal effects, guitar, and a piano. My favorite is "track 5" This short 30 minute album is very striking and will stay with you. Enjoy.

Check this out.

2009-05-11T13:36:00.001-04:00

Really excited to be getting this soon.

New Wise Blood tracks

2009-04-19T22:42:00.002-04:00

Karl, has been at work on his next album. It is a big change from his first album under the name "Wise Blood". He has changed from alt-country, rock and roll to more experimental hip hop (a la Why?, and anything under the Anticon record label), I like the change and think he is more suited for this music. Has a real good flow, and great beats. Please check both these tracks, and let me know what you think!

The Breeze Knees 3

Swim Swam Swum 2

Enjoy.

Paul McCartney - Electric Arguments

2009-04-03T17:02:00.002-04:00

Finally something Paul does that can make Beatles fans proud of. Sorry, for all you Wings fan's (I just could never get into it). This album's songs and lyrics were written in the space of a day, all instruments played by Paul. This album shows there is something that Paul has still got. He was always known as the cute one, but Paul was always a mastermind as well. He wrote and played most of the famous Beatles tunes, both pre-and post drugs. It seems that maybe because of the short time period to make this album, Paul's ego maybe didn't get the chance to get in his own way. Rock, Blues, Electronic infused songs brings to mind Paul's creativity and raucous vocals on The White Album. Check this out, definetly worth the time, especially for those people wondering where all the artists from years past have gone to. My favs are Highway, Nothing Too Much Just Out Of Sight, Sun Is Shining, and Sing The Changes. Enjoy, and remember the old Paul.

Chad VanGaalen - Soft Airplane

2009-04-03T16:50:00.002-04:00

Chad VanGaalen is a singer/songwriter/artist from Canada. He creates most of his songs and art from his home, rarely ever leaving. His story brings to mind the life and times of Daniel Johnston. Like Johnston, Chad VanGaalen sings about life, death, and existence using good imagery and creative lyrics and song structures. A VERY, VERY great album. This is a one man album, he uses guitars, drums, and also various electronic instruments as well as a xylophone to create almost childlike music with very adult like subjects. He also creates and directs his own music videos. Check them out below. Soft Airplane favorites are Willow Tree, City Of Electric Light, and Inside The Molecules. Enjoy

Department of Eagles - In Ear Park

2009-03-21T13:31:00.002-04:00

Newest album from the Grizzly Bear side project. Pretty good stuff, sounds almost exactly like a Grizzly Bear album to me, which means awesome. This is kind of a nostalgic album from Daniel, most songs are about his childhood and the album is dedicated to his father who died not too long ago. Take a trip back in someone else's mind here. Favorites are No One Does It Like You, Phantom Other, and Floating on the Lehigh.

Ruby Suns - Sea Lion

2009-03-09T00:21:00.003-04:00

Originally meant to be a world music album, but became much more. The beauty of Ryan McPhun's musical vision will engulf you in a blanket of happiness, warmth, and reverb. The sound always makes me think of a bunch of different musicians from all over the world sitting in a room on a summer day and playing good time music. Download this and you wont be disappointed, my favorites are "Oh, Mojave", "There Are Birds", and "Tane Mahuta". Enjoy

LCD Soundsystem - S/T

2009-03-08T23:59:00.002-04:00

I originally had listened to the follow up to this album "The Sound of Silver", and discovered this one after becoming obsessed with all the songs. This release is just as good as Sound of Silver. Basically electronica pop at its best. You know an album is going to be really great when the opener is as great as "Daft Punk Is Playing At My House", which is a story we all wish we were part of. This entire album is spectacular, whether your alone looking for some energy, running, or throwing a party this album is perfect. Other standouts from this album are "Tribulations", "On Repeat", and "Great Release". Enjoy.

Endless Highway - The Music of The Band

2009-03-02T17:23:00.002-05:00

A pretty nice collection of contemporary bands covering some of their favorite Band songs. Notable bands are My Morning Jacket covering "It Makes No Difference", Gomez playing "Up On Cripple Creek", and Bruce Hornsby's take on "King Harvest". Enjoy, Disc 1, Disc 2.

Condo Fucks - Fuckbook

2009-02-26T16:08:00.004-05:00

Essentially a Yo La Tengo release except in name. This is very lo-fi heavy, dirty rock n roll. I really like these tracks a lot. Very different than most if not all the other YLT releases. Through their albums they have established themselves as one of the pillars of modern rock n roll. Using different sounds and effects to traverse the landscape of ambient, experimental, shiny, and sometimes dark pop music. On "Fuckbook" the guys and girl switch up to more straight up rock, seeing them live I was surprised how hard fast and loud they play. It surprised me at the time, so listening to this, I knew it was in them for awhile. The record sounds to me like the early Beatles if they played with the Black Keys. My favorite tracks are "Dog Meat", "Gudbuy T'Jane", and "With A Girl Like You". Enjoy

M83 - Dead Cities, Red Seas And Lost Ghosts

2009-02-26T11:49:00.003-05:00

Beautiful Noise.

Parlovr

2009-02-19T13:52:00.004-05:00

I always love it when bands send me stuff to listen to. Alex from Parlovr recently sent me a few of his bands material. I was grabbed immediately by their sound, quality, and craftsmanship. After hearing all the songs they sent me, I am going to buy their independently releases self titled album. I highly recommend this for anyone who loves where modern rock is going. There are elements of noise, fast/furious drumming, and melodic lyrics. And according to their myspace, they only use a k-mart guitar, a bad drumset, and a keyboard that has a mind of it's own. Remind me a lot of Arcade Fire on their song "All The Wold Is All That Is The Case". Their hit song it seems would be "Pen To The Paper", I really like the repetitive lyrics. I always enjoy new directions in songwriting. In a day of a myriad of bands, its ironic that it gets frustrating or just seems impossible to find a new sound or band to remind you just how great music can be, this is it.

Avey Tare - Spirit They're Gone, Spirit They've Vanished

2009-02-09T11:39:00.002-05:00

Avey Tare is another bandmate of Animal Collective, and this is his solo effort. Panda Bear also plays drums on this effort. This is a lot more experimental to me than most of Animal Collective efforts and Panda Bears solo stuff. Each member has a completely different view point on music as well as different loves of particular music genres. I think that is why each AC album is so much different and why their music is so crazy and beautiful. Somehow four guys with completely different loves and influences can come together and make focused music. Enjoy.

Panda Bear - Person Pitch

2009-02-09T11:32:00.002-05:00

A side project from one of the members of Animal Collective. This great album is very calm in comparison to some of the loudness and noise. You can hear the influence of Panda Bear on Animal Collective's latest release (Merriweather Post Pavilion), especially in the Brian Wilson esque vocals and dreamy soundscapes. If you enjoyed Merriweather Post Pavilion or you love Psychedelic rock, the you will love this album. Enjoy.

Speaking of Animal Collective...

2009-02-09T11:18:00.008-05:00

Feels

Here Comes The Indian

Merriweather Post Pavilion

Strawberry Jam

Sung Tongs

Water Curses [EP]

Badass Video

2009-02-09T00:02:00.002-05:00

This is the great new video from Animal Collective via Merriweather Post Pavilion song "My Girls".

Animal Collective "My Girls" from Chad von Nau on Vimeo.

Old Abram Brown - Alive In Winter

2009-02-04T11:16:00.004-05:00

I was sent this album from one of the band members, whose brother writes about film in the blog named "Are The Hills Going To March Off". First things first, the recording and production are simply amazing, everything is very clear and crisp. The effects on the vocals and instruments are just as good as major label stuff if not better. The music which is very full and always moving forward, is surprisingly comprised of few instruments, a keyboard, drums, and trumpet. The vocals are sure to be compared to "The Cold War Kids", the difference for me is, that I really dislike the Cold War Kids, whereas Old Abram Brown has something behind the vocals that make them very enjoyable for me. Its as if you can hear the conviction behind each word. The reverb is another thing that I really enjoyed about this album, for me if it has reverb I will love it. The band has another talent which I really liked and that is layering, if you listen to the song "Ten Pounds" about 3 minutes in you hear a background guitar solo just faintly which gets faded out by a trumpet. To me this is the definition of good music, where the instruments aren't separate entities but part of the whole song, they can flow together and intersect, all to be part of the bigger picture. Outstanding songs from this album are Polonius, Ten Pounds, and Muddy Bricks (a song in which you can hear the Sigur Ros influence). Enjoy. Also here is their Myspace. Also you can buy a phsyical copy of the album here.

Congrats Rafa

2009-02-01T12:56:00.003-05:00

It was really hard to watch especially the last set for my guy Roger, but Rafa deserved to win. A class act too with how he dealt with the ceremony as well. I hope Roger can pull it together, if he doesn't start beating Nadal again, it wont be a rivalry any more.

Drk Was The Nght

2009-01-30T15:40:00.002-05:00

Felt kinda bad downloading this, and now putting it out knowing what its for. But based on all the songs I am definitely gonna buy this on vinyl when I see it. Most of us know who is on this, but for reminders you have Spoon, The National, Bon Iver, Arcade Fire, My Morning Jacket, Andrew Bird, Feist, Beirut, Sufjan Stevens, Jose Gonzalez to name a few. Every song to me is sensational, I love the collaborations namely Justin Vernon (Bon Iver) and Aaron Dessner (The National) and the Feist + Grizzly Bear one is another stand out. Please enjoy responsibly and support this cause if you can. Disc 1, Disc 2.

GMPD - Dreamscape

2009-01-30T13:25:00.003-05:00

I was unaware of this band, until a group of friends told me about them, and their wild shows. It took me awhile to get around to finally listening to them alone, rather than hearing bits and pieces at parties, etc. This is their newest album that was just released on the bands own label. Formerly known as Gil Mantera's Party Dream, now they are GMPD, they feel the abbreviation is the first step in their new journey. Sounds like 80's 90's dance, synth, robot shit. Their music has been described as "outdated music, and bad lyrics" and that may be true. But this band isnt trying to break new music barriers or create a new sound. Its all pretty tongue in cheek music, but good music to party to. Put this on, drink some Bourbon (or whiskey), smoke some, and enjoy.

Great homemade Wilco video

2009-01-29T13:06:00.001-05:00

This is my favorite youtube video at the moment, if you love the song "wishful thinking" you need to watch this.

Beirut - March Of The Zapotec, Realpeople Holland EP

2009-01-27T13:45:00.003-05:00

Thanks Anna for leaking this, a wonderful two part EP from everyone's favorite gypsy inspired band. The first half "March Of The Zapotec" is essential Beirut, wonderful stories and descriptions of places we wish we'd seen, and people we'd only hope to meet. The second half is where it gets real interesting and awesome. "Realpeople Holland" is Beirut's electronic opus, a side project that wields just as much beauty and complexity that we have grown accustomed to hearing from these guys. Zach's voice as many have pointed out, works really well with the beats and the waves of electronica. Enjoy (re-up'd)

Beck - The Information

2009-01-21T12:59:00.003-05:00

A concept album of sorts, which seeks to show and explain how technology interacts with our lives and relationships. It's crazy to think that this album was on the shelf for awhile, Beck left it unfinished to work on Guero, and later of course came back to it. Thank God he did, I have probably listened to this album more than any other of his in the past 4 months. It is not surprising that he had this album put away for awhile, its a lot darker than Guero. Maybe he felt that after Sea Change this album could be seen as the same vein, and if there is one thing Beck is great at it is changing. My favorites are "Dark Star", Cellphone's Dead", and "Think I'm In Love". Enjoy

MGMT - Oracular Spectacular

2009-01-21T12:44:00.003-05:00

More than a bit late on posting this, but better late than never. Like the Flaming Lips, MGMT blends familiar earthly sounds and themes with the outrageous noise and productions that seem to come from another time and planet. Some songs like "Kids" with the filtered vocals and simple but catchy synths could be played in a club on Mars. "Electric Feel" is another great track from this spacey record, the simplicity of the song brings to mind Spoon's "I Turned My Camera On" where a great bass line can totally carry a song. If you haven't heard this and by chance your a fan of Flaming Lips or Animal Collective, I think you'll really enjoy this one. Enjoy.

My favorite time of year.

2009-01-20T00:53:00.001-05:00

Unbeknownst to most of you this is my favorite time of year, because it is the start of tennis season. Lets hope Roger can pull out another title in Australia.

/\/\ Ward - Hold Time

2009-01-18T12:48:00.002-05:00

The new release from one of the finest musicians as well as songwriters alive today. Super excited for this one, it has been about three years since a solo release from this man, he has understandably been busy doing other things, namely Monsters Of Folk, She & Him, etc. I hope you love this as much as I already do. Enjoy

My Morning Jacket - Itunes Live From The Palms EP

2009-01-18T12:21:00.002-05:00

New EP from one of the greatest bands out there today. Mellow live versions of some of their better songs. A must for any die hard MMJ fan, and also a good relaxing EP from the band known for rocking you into a coma. This band can do anything. Enjoy

Da/\/ Auerbach - KIH

2009-01-18T11:57:00.003-05:00

The solo disc from the frontman of the two man ohio rock group "The Black Keys". Of course it goes without saying that you will love this if you love the Black Keys, or gritty, fuzzy, noisy, rock and roll. The songs on "Keep It Hid" are a lot more mellow than most of the Keys stuff. There seems to be more country influence involved. I would tend to guess this was recorded in their basement because the sound is a retrospective back to their early releases like The Big Come Up, where in which they used that space to help the overall sound to be more gritty and dirty. Enjoy, Part 1, Part 2.

A/|/imal Co||ective - MPP

2009-01-08T18:07:00.003-05:00

I think we have all been looking forward to this, I know I am extremely late for this upload, but whatever. This is a great album, a great outdoor album which the band was seeking to make. The album is a homage to the bands favorite place to see shows. Many songs sound to me like the Beach Boys post "pet sounds" but taking even more drugs. The pop elements and vocals are too much to deny. I just cant stop listening to this. My favorites are My Girls, No More Runnin, and Taste. But as we all know this band is much more than one song, the whole thing is an experience. Enjoy

Fistful Of Quarters

2009-01-08T13:57:00.003-05:00

If you have seen "The King Of Kong: A Fistful Of Quarters" you'll understand my pure hatred for Billy Mitchell. If haven't seen this movie please do, its like a Christopher Guest mockumentary but real, but the great part is you get caught up in the battle between good and evil, between Billy Mitchell (a coward) and Steve Weibe (a great man) for the high score in Donkey Kong.

This man is evil.

TV On The Radio - Dancing Choose (Single)

2009-01-05T13:55:00.003-05:00

The great single off "Dear Science" also with a great remix of "Crying". Enjoy

Great video

2009-01-05T13:08:00.001-05:00

Merry Christmas

2008-12-24T16:51:00.001-05:00

WTF?

2008-12-21T14:22:00.003-05:00

http://www.cnn.com/2008/WORLD/meast/12/21/iraq.christmas/index.html?eref=rss_topstories

This is a story about the first public Christmas in Iraq. On the surface "hey thats cool, i guess" as the Christ in Christmas has been almost lost and it has become a holday about getting together with family and celebrating your friends, etc. I love Christmas. But this is fucking ridiculous to me. How can we publicly despise any other culture, religion (Islam) or political view (Communism) because they "force" their view on others. When this is a perfect example of the United States doing it. Putting pictures of Jesus on blimps around the city, are you fucking kidding me. I have no problem with people celebrating their respective holidays, but when the government basically our government does this it makes me think we are often what we despise rather than what we think. Its nice that the people are uniting by why is it around a americanized holiday and a christian fictional character?

1. AA Bondy - American Hearts

2008-12-21T13:17:00.003-05:00

My favorite of the year, from the moment I first heard it I knew it was going to be on the list. Bare bones production, recorded in a barn in upstate New York. Bondy with his family connection with The Felice Brothers, recorded a beautiful, honest, raw album dealing with everything. From drugs to war to love, nothing is off the table with this effort. Every song is well worth the time and attention. Favorites are There's A Reason, American Hearts, Lovers Waltz, and Killed Myself When I Was Young. here

2. Why? - Alopecia

2008-12-21T13:13:00.002-05:00

Alternative rock, hip hop group from non other than Cincinnati, although now located in Oakland, California. Sounds like Pavement and stream of consciousness rap in a blender. Favorites are Fatalist Palministry, By Torpoedo Or Crohn's, The Hollows, and Brook & Waxing. Get it here.

3. My Morning Jacket - Evil Urges

2008-12-21T13:10:00.004-05:00

One of my favorite bands ever, just seems so effortless in any new direction they decide to go on. This album has a little bit of everything, Prince, soul ballads, southern rock, just get it. No link due to request, you'll find it.

4. Fleet Foxes - S/T

2008-12-21T13:08:00.002-05:00

Mythical mountain music. Reverb drenched ballads from one of the great up and coming bands of this young century. No Link due to request, you can find it though.

5. Bon Iver - For Emma, Forever Ago

2008-12-21T13:07:00.003-05:00

What can I say that hasn't already been said about this one. here

6. Wise Blood - S/T

2008-12-21T13:01:00.003-05:00

A great folk, alternative, inventive album from a close friend. I swear i can't go a day without listening to one song off this album. Spirituality plays a big part in the song writing process. It is not a qualification however to enjoy a damn good album. Favorites are Well I Had A Revelation And..., The Ballad Of Ichabod Vincent And His Lady, Lost At Sea, and Untitled. Here.

7. She & Him - Volume One

2008-12-21T12:58:00.003-05:00

A colaboration between M. Ward (a ridiculous solo artist btw) and Zooey Deschanel (from Elf fame). A great look back at 50's and 60's female love balads done excellently with Wards inventive production and guitar. Every song is equally great. Here

9. Atmosphere - When Life Hands You Lemons...

2008-12-21T12:50:00.003-05:00

I had never heard of this hip hop group until the past year, i was truly missing out. I got the pleasure to see them live at Scribble jam here in Cincinnati. Hell of a show by the way. This album is a great look back at a life filled with joy and much pain. The beats on the album are incredible. Each song is a different story or tale, giving you a piece of good advice on each track. A really fucking good hip hop album is what I am trying to say. here.

10. Stephen Malkmus - Real Emotional Trash

2008-12-21T12:45:00.002-05:00

I'm not sure if Malkmus will ever get his credit when it comes to his solo projects. I actually enjoy his neurotic solo stuff more than his Pavement catalogue. Understandably some don't like his new "Jam" style, but to me not only is he one of the best lyricists but also a hell of a guitarist whom never gives you a basic solo. Give the man some cred here.

11. Momo - Buscador

2008-12-21T12:39:00.004-05:00

I didn't even know about this band at all, and from what I gathered not many in the bands native Brazil did either. I was stupified when i downloaded this album the production quality, the song quality, and a whole album feel is just plain amazing. Reminds me of Pink Floyd and Sigur Ros with the power of the music and the crashing of the drums. These are epic songs. Hear here.

12. M83 - Saturdays = Youth

2008-12-21T12:33:00.002-05:00

A great nostalgia album from a very inventive and talented artist. This album takes on the 80's complete with loud synths, and those famous voice effects. Note: if you listen to this album you will find yourself thinking about the 80's for the rest of the day. For a blast from the past click here. Favorites are Kim & Jessie, Skin Of The Night, and Colours.

13. Little Joy - S/T

2008-12-21T12:28:00.002-05:00

A good little album from a side band of the Strokes and Los Hermanos. The album is short but sweet. Clocked in at about a half hour. Inspired by Brazilian samba, folk, and alternative rock. Enjoy here.

14. Dan Le Sac Vs. Scroobius Pip - Angles

2008-12-21T12:20:00.002-05:00

Silly, smart, and smarmy hip hop from a duo from East Essex. Pitchfork gave this album a .2 I think, apparently only they can say things like "The Beatles were just a band....Radiohead just a band...the next big thing is just a band". I just chalked it up to media company full of tight assed elitists, who if hear anything that make jabs at what they worship, they will give a bad review. Anyway the album is great a good example of British Hip Hop. They even rap the periodical table of elements.

Funny Pitchfork review here.

Enjoy Here.

Top 15 of the year.

2008-12-21T12:12:00.002-05:00

Well its the end of 2008, a pretty great year for music. Only tainted by the lack of a back end albums. As my list stands here.

15. The Black Keys - Attack & Release
14. Dan Le Sac vs. Scroobius Pip - Angles
13. Little Joy - S/T
12. M83 - Saturdays = Youth
11. Momo - Buscador
10. Stephen Malkmus - Real Emotional Trash
9. Atmosphere - When Life Hands You Lemons...
8. TV On The Radio - Dear Science
7. She & Him - Volume 1
6. Wise Blood - Wise Blood
5. Bon Iver - For Emma, Forever Ago
4. Fleet Foxes - S/T
3. My Morning Jacket - Evil Urges
2. Why? - Alopecia
1. AA Bondy - American Hearts

Tobacco - Fucked Up Friends

2008-12-13T12:22:00.002-05:00

Have been listening to this while playing video games or playing ping pong. A good mostly instrumental independent gritty hip hop sounds, courtesy of Anticon records. Enjoy.

T.V. On The Radio - Dear Science

2008-12-13T12:17:00.003-05:00

A spectacular album, sorry for being late with posting this. This may be one of my favorites of the year. The band blends 70's rock, soul, dance, and funk altogether to make a beautiful new piece of music. Enjoy

Bon Iver - Blood Bank

2008-12-05T12:07:00.002-05:00

Follow up EP to Bon Iver's debut classic "For Emma, Forever Ago". Enjoy.

Wise Blood update

2008-12-05T02:53:00.002-05:00

My friend Karl has uploaded his album to a site, where you can download many different sizes and qualities of the album. Also on their you can play a track straight off, so if you are on the border take a listen. You should check it out. Also he is working on a new album and has 2 new songs recorded that can be found on his myspace.

Download site

Myspace

Momo - Buscador

2008-12-03T15:06:00.002-05:00

I was sent this album from a friend and reader of the blog. Sometimes I am not sure what to think if I get sent something. Its hard to give something the attention it needs when i have no knowledge of the music or background of the artists, but this album "Buscador" from Momo a Brazilian band didn't ask for my attention it took it. The emailer who I have to thank, made a great comparison to Pink Floyd in terms of the guitars and crashing drums. This however is much more than that, the songs seem to flow really well together, this is an album in the truest of terms. It is not one song to the next but a complete album with a focus, its hard for me to grasp the meanings of the songs, as I believe they're sung in Portuguese. But you dont have to have the lyrics to understand or relate to the music. Try this album, I implore you, you'll never look back. My favorites are "Preciso Ser Pedra", "Irmãos", and "Tristeza", but the whole thing is exotic and beautiful. Enjoy

The bands site.

Thanks to Jairo.

The Tallest Man On Earth - Shallow Graves

2008-11-28T17:47:00.003-05:00

A folk gem from a musician in Sweden. I first heard about him from the "When You Awake" blog. I found his album and gave it a listen and was really surprised how good it is. If you are unfamiliar than you will hear the similarity between the voices of Kristian Matsson (Tallest Man) and Bob Dylan. This album looks like it fits between "John Wesley Harding" and "Nashville Skyline". You will love the intimate feel of the album, you will hear the fingernails on the strings, and noises of birds outside. This year has been really good for folk or americana, or what have you. This is another example of that, and with the beauty of the internet we can all hear how good foreign musicians are. Enjoy My favorites are "The Blizzard's Never Seen The Desert Sands", "Pistol Dreams", and "This Wind".

Les Savy Fav - Lets Stay Friends

2008-11-24T15:24:00.002-05:00

A great band, I wish I had seen them live when they came to Cincy. There is something intrinsic about their music, it is blatant rock n' roll but there is something else there. Les Savy Fav is widely known as one of the forefathers of modern independent rock. The sounds and effects you hear on this album are all proof of that. Every song on this album goes in so many directions that you could make an album out of each one. If you haven't heard Les Savy Fav before please download this, it will become your new favorite band. This is a perfect album to listen to while taking out a 12 pack of PBR. My favorite tracks are Pots & Pans, Brace Yourself, and What Wolves Would Do. Enjoy.

Okkervil River - Black Sheep Boy

2008-11-23T09:54:00.001-05:00

Enjoy in the misery and heartbreak

Little Joy - Little Joy

2008-11-17T17:44:00.002-05:00

Thank you to whoever sent me the link to this. A side band from members of The Strokes, Los Hermanos, and Devandra Banhart. Beautiful country/brazilian/golden pop. Wonderful music, an album that passes way too quickly, but you'll be holding on till the last second. If you like Autumn Defense, Devandra Banhart, or Jose Gonzales then you'll Enjoy this.

Synecdoche, New York

2008-11-17T00:09:00.002-05:00

Jesus, see this movie.

LCD SoundSystem - 45:33

2008-11-14T16:45:00.004-05:00

Some may think this was a lame marketing campaign but I rather like it. Nike asked LCD to do a running song, so they did. And you dont have to be running to enjoy this tune. If you are a fan of the "Sound Of Silver" album you'll notice a few clips of songs, and if you have never heard LCD SoundSystem then enjoy.

Lou Reed - Animal Serenade

2008-11-12T12:27:00.002-05:00

A live 2 disc set from the musical genius and mad terrific Lou Reed. Recorded in Los Angeles at a 2003 show, 63 year old Lou Reed shows he still has it. Not only do you get new takes on Velvet Underground songs, but you also get what every Lou fan wants, his famous rants during and before songs. This double disc, two hour recording shows Reed in a new light, my favorites include "Smalltown" a song about the artist stuck in a dried and dead town - with its great line " No Michelangelo is coming from Pittsburgh". Another favorite is "Street Hassle", old Velvet fav. "Venus In Furs", and "Sunday Morning". Enjoy

Disc 1

Disc 2

DJ Shadow - Preemptive Strike

2008-11-12T09:48:00.002-05:00

I am pretty late on the DJ Shadow bandwagon, but consider me on there now. Shadow makes more than trip-hop albums, he makes complete experiences. Preemptive Strike is an album of Shadow's pre-label material. The four part song "What Does Your Soul Look Like" is basically a progressive rock opus, using the varied sources that Shadow is known for. Jazz, Funk, Rock, Hip Hop, and other bits and pieces are all par for the course. My recommendation wait till night turn off all the lights, turn up the stereo and get ready to travel to where only Shadow can take you. Enjoy.

Beck - Hell Yes [EP] Gameboy Variations

2008-11-07T10:32:00.004-05:00

A great little four song EP Beck made remixing songs with Gameboy, and other video game effects, this is really fucking good, check it out here.

Minus The Bear - Acoustics

2008-11-07T10:19:00.002-05:00

Had never heard this band before, even though I had heard about them. I really like this EP, if in fact that is what it is. I am a bid fan of americana, folk, etc. And I really enjoy these seven songs. Guns & Ammo is probably my favorite, enjoy.

Friends Blog

2008-11-07T09:59:00.002-05:00

A good friend Jeremy, whom I helped move a 60,000 record collection not too long ago has started two sites. One of which will highlight some real vinyl finds. Jeremy has bought many people's lifetime record collections, and he has plans to go through most if not all of them and put them up individually on ebay. So check out his sites, and maybe with the vinyl renewal you will find something to peak your interest.

Vintage Fidelity Blog

Vintage Fidelity