The Perm & The Skullet

Could it be true

2011-05-23T11:19:00.000-04:00

A Tumblr and contributor to Aquarium Drunkard and Sunset In The Rearview.

Artificial Amnesiac

2008-12-29T15:15:00.003-05:00

Moving on to better things, and I hope you'll follow...

Artificial Amnesiac will be the new home of The Perm & The Skullet starting in 2009.

Podcasts

2008-10-24T12:54:00.003-04:00

Podcasts are still up. Check them out below...

Subscribe through iTunes by clicking the above logo.

The goal of the Collective Podcast is to provide you with some new tracks, some old tracks, and maybe some material you’re not familiar with. It’s also something we hope you will enjoy from start to finish. If you’d like to appear on the podcast let us know! Make sure to click the above iTunes logo to subscribe today.

11/7/07 New Podcast!

.: PODCAST 17

Belle and Sebastian - Your Cover’s Blown
Castanets - Sway
Phosphorescent - Cocaine Lights
The Shins - Sailor Girl (Live iTunes Session)
Yeasayer - 2080
R.E.M. - I’ve Been High

10/10/07 New Podcast!

.:PODCAST 16

Squidbillies Open - Billy Joe Shaver
Destroyer - Stormy
Transatlantique - Beirut
Just What I Needed - The Cars
Midnight Confessions - The Grass Roots
I Got A Letter - Half-Handed Cloud
Wizard - Mariee Sioux
Knives Out (radiohead cover)- The Flaming Lips
Turn Up The Faders - Nathan Asher & the Infantry
Queen of Hearts - Juice Newton

10/2/07 New Podcast!

.:PODCAST 15

Beck- Time Bomb
Jens Lekman - Friday Night at the Drive-In Bingo
Obadiah Parker - Hey Ya
Doc and Merle Watson - Little Maggie
David and the Citizens - Now She sleeps in a Box in the Good Soil of Denmark
Summer Hymns - Mr. Brewer (cackle, cackle)
Animal Collective - Peacebone

Here are the Collective Podcasts from the past. More to come in the future as we get things revving back up here.

.: PODCAST 14

My Brother the Native - Octopodidae
Clarence Carter - Patches
Frog Eyes - Idle Songs
Grizzly Bear - Owner of a Lonely Heart
Midtown Dickens - Airplane (demo)
Beirut - Postcards From Italy
Charles Latham - Nite Man
Rosie Thomas - Much Farther to Go

.: PODCAST 13 (Best of 06 pt. 2)

Joanna Newsom - Cosmia
Midlake - Young Bride
Swan Lake - All Fires
Cat Power - Lived in Bars
J Dilla - Workinonit
Sunset Rubdown - Stadiums and Shrines II
Danielson - Did I Step on your Trumpet

.: PODCAST 12 (Best of 06 pt. 1)

Sufjan Stevens - I Saw Three Ships
Drakkar Sauna - Om, John Surratt
Xiu Xiu - The fox and the Rabbit
Bonnie ‘Prince’ Billy - Strange Form of Life
Metallic Falcons - Disparu
Thom Yorke - The Clock
Johnny Cash - God’s Gonna Cut You Down
Band of Horses - The Funeral

.: PODCAST 10

The Choir of All Saints, Honiara - God Yu Tekkem Laef Blong Mi
Danielson - Five Stars And Two Thumbs Up
Dr. Octagon - Earth People
Millie Jackson - (If Loving You Is Wrong) I Don’t Want To Be Right
Beck - Black Tambourine
Anna Oxygen - Fake Pajamas
Swan Lake - All Fires
Joanna Newsom - Cosmia

.: PODCAST 9.1

Beck and Willie Nelson - Drivin’ Nails In My Coffin
Old Time Relijun - Wolves and Wolverines
MC5 - Kick Out the Jams
Johnny Cash and the Original Tennessee Two - Rock Island Line
Midtown Dickens - AM Dial
Cat Power - Werewolf (live @ Nacht-Mix Lounge)
Midlake - The Jungler (alt. version)
+/- - Leap Year

.: PODCAST 9

Marvin Gaye - The World Is Rated X (Alternative Mix)
Xiu Xiu - Vulture Piano
Brian Wilson - 11 (from Paley Sessions)
Alec Ounsworth - Telling the Truth
Tyrone Evans - Let Them Say
Bill Monroe and His Bluegrass Boys - John Henry
Washington Phillips - What Are They Doing In Heaven Today
The Lamb Called Light - Lead Thou Me

.: PODCAST 8

Jealous Guy - Donny Hathaway
The Chills - Peter Bjorn & John
Don’t Cha - Xiu Xiu
Wildcat - Ratatat
The Friendly Beasts - Sufjan Stevens
Dirty City Blues - Jennifer O’Connor
Winged/Wicked Things - Sunset Rubdown
I’ll Fly Away - Reverend Gary Davis

.: PODCAST 7

James Brown - Down and Out in New York City
Magnolia Electric Company - Lonesome Valley
The Mountain Goats - See America Right (excerpt)
Kris Kristofferson - This Old Road
George Jones - Hello Darlin’
Tender Forever - Then If I’m Weird I Want To (Planet Claire Sessions)
Seabear - Singing Arc
Tapes n’ Tapes - The Illiad
Midlake - Young Bride
Syd Barrett - If It’s In You

.: PODCAST 6

Lindsey Buckingham - Holiday Road
Xiu Xiu - The Fox & The Rabbit
Sunset Rubdown - Stadiums and Shrines II
The Beatles - Sun King/Mean Mr. Mustard/Polythene Pam/She Came In Through The Bathroom Window Melody
The Flaming Lips - War Pigs (Live Stockholm 5/06)
Weezer - Lullaby For Wayne
MSTRKRFT - Work On You
Girl Talk - Warm It Up

.: PODCAST 5

Lady and Bird - Stephanie Says
Bonnie Prince Billy - Cursed Sleep
Johnny Cash - God’s Gonna Cut You Down
Peter Bjorn and John - Young Folks
Pablo Moses - Pave The Way
Modern Skirts - N.Y. Song
DJ Shadow - This Time (I’m Gonna Try It My Way)
Lily Allen - Smile

.: PODCAST 4

Goblin - Suspiria (Celesta & Bells)
Witch - Seer
Clap Your Hands Say Yeah - In This Home On Ice
Gene Moore - Church Organ #2
The Animal Collective - Grass
Afrika Bambaataa - Planet Rock
Viktor Vaughn - Saliva
Gnarls Barkley - Crazy (Instrumental)
The Rance Allen Singers - Lying On The Truth

.: PODCAST 3

Metallic Falcons - Disparu
Espers - Rosmary Lane
The Animal Collective = Must Be Treeman
Nobody & Mystic Chords of Memory - Feed Upon the Sand (Dntel Remix)
Shugo Tokumaru - Mist
Ben Gibbard - Recycled Air (Acoustic)
Sufjan Stevens - For The Widowers In Paradise, For The Fatherless In Ypisilanti
Spider - Midnight on the Nile

.: PODCAST 2

Stuart A. Staples - That Leaving Feeling
Sunset Rubdown - Stadiums And Shrines II
Sufjan Stevens - Dear Mr. Supercomputer
Dr. Octagon - Ants
The Knife - Heartbeats
Camera Obscura - Come Back Margaret
The Mountain Goats - Woke Up Now
Paleo - Pelican, Pelican
Peaches - Slippery Dick

UPDATE from other site

2007-12-21T11:08:00.001-05:00

Below are a few of the posts from when we had a brief time over at Wordpress. We're back here at our original site, but you can get here by www.permandskullet.com

Phosphorescent (Matthew Houck) succeeds like never before with his latest release Pride on the Secretly Canadian / Dead Oceans label. Whether it was moving to Brooklyn or just growth as an artist, Pride is all that I had hope Phosphorescent would be. A fan ever since A Hundred Times Or More, I’ve always wanted a song like Cocaine Lights or My Dove, My Lamb... and now we have it. With hints of Dennis Wilson’s ghost on a Will Oldham island during camp town races backed by the angelic choir you heard the day your grandma died, Pride rises near the top of 2007 releases, and as mentioned, Phosphorescent’s best. If you are in the area, Phosphorescent will be playing this years Troika Music Festival in Durham on November 3rd and Bull City Headquarters. Below is a track, but this is a must own album.

(mp3) A Picture of Our Torn Up Praise

Castanets have been a staple here at TPATS from the beginning and with the release of the latest, In The Vines, we are excited! After reading the below snippets from AK we feel kind of bad, but this album really harnesses a raw emotion that allows the listener to tap into, and really relate, or should I say, an almost palpable feeling. like blood in the mouth. You can taste it and with this release you can not only hear it, but you can feel it. A rustic journey that was there as soon as I opened the door.

Asthmatic Kitty wrote, “Ray Raposa of Castanets had almost finished his follow-up to First Light’s Freeze (2005) when three men in strange masks mugged him at gunpoint in front of his home in Bedstuy, Brooklyn. Stealing Raposa’s rent money, iPod and security, the three thieves climaxed a year of depression and nomadic, nocturnal dislocation. Not long after the mugging, Raposa completed In The Vines. “

They go on to say, “If the Castanets’ debut, Cathedral (2004) was a road narrative and First Light’s Freeze a malaise of longing, In The Vines is an attempt to reconcile the fear of the spaces between the journeys. Says Raposa, “There is a definite rootlessness. Not so much pursuit as just waking up somewhere else, then somewhere else again. I have had to halt production and/or writing and/or thinking about this album repeatedly due to actual, incapacitating depressions. Totally crippling. The bad kind. Off of the road, it’s been a pretty bad year.“

One man’s horror is another man’s pleasure and Castanets, and the release In The Vines, rise to the occasion and deliver an amazing LP. Below are two tracks from the release and links to acquire. Enjoy.

(mp3) Sway
(mp3) This is the Early Game

| Myspace | Purchase | Download |

Over at Planet Claire Aligre FM 93.1 they have mp3’s of Rio en Medio (aka Danielle Stech Homsy ) live in-studio performance. All the tracks of this intimate set are worth downloading. Below is one of the tracks, but if you want all three check it out here.

(mp3) Everyone is Someone’s

Run Around, Run Around is the latest release from Shelby Sifers on Oh! Map Records. I wrote about Shelby and her release Yeah and I’m In Love Too last year and was thrilled to hear about this latest release. Her soft, delicate, child-like vocals are back and it’s music to my ears on this rain soaked morning. Below is a track that hopefully will be spinning in your head all day.

(mp3) Blackberry

| Myspace w/ link to purchase |

Surfing around the internet a few weeks ago and came across a great recording of Joanna Newsom’s show from 11-25- 06 at the Bottletree in Birmingham, AL.

I’ve yet to see her perform live and I’m dying to. She has the most beautiful voice and her comments between songs are so endearing it’s hard not to fall instantly in love with her spirit. Love the traditional Scottish song as well…a real treat.

The track listing is as follows and if you’re interested in the show, just grab the zip file. Have a great weekend!

Bridges and Balloons
The Book of Right On
Traditional Scottish Song
Emily
Monkey & Bear
Sawdust & Diamonds
Only Skin
Cosmia
Sadie
Peach, Plum, Pear

ZIP file

What does it mean to be human? That’s a good question…and a question posed by the track below from Old Time Relijun’s latest release, Catharsis In Crisis.

The panting, the hollering horns, the strained liquor soaked vocal chords vibrate the relijun into my headphones and take total control. If you have not experienced the old time relijun, then it’s a must you download the track below, followed by a download of the album, and prior efforts, from emusic, and then if you are in the area, an upcoming concert. OTR will be preforming with, TPATS favorite Midtown Dickens of all people, at the Local 506 on November 2nd.

Below is a track from the current releae that will give you nightmares you’ll come to embrace. Enjoy.

(mp3) Daemon Meeting

I remember when Seabear was a solo act and I posted about Sindri and his music back in 2005. Well Seabear is now a collective of seven and they have recently released the album The Ghost That Carried Us Away on the Morr Music label.

Gone are the rustic acoustic nights and now a magical multi-instrumental dream like room where the performers are on a circular rotating stage playing for children with light reflecting from prisms twinkling upon the walls as the room tilts. Bears and beavers, trees and birds join in the swaying and listening of the soft alluring vocals and a smile fills the room as the walls break away to a meadow that allows all to hear what Seabear has become.

Thoughts, and you know I like thoughts, but these are the thoughts that come through as I listen to this amazing lp. It’s wonderful to see the transformation from what was once a darker Icelandic solo act, to a group that’s filled with light hearted, rich instrumentation that cry out for headphones as Sindri intertwines his delightful voices with each note. Below is a track from the release with links to acquire.

(mp3) I Sing I Swim

I’ve posted this before, but due to it no longer being available on Big O at this time, I thought I would repost it here in honor of Neil Young’s upcoming release Chrome Dreams II. You can pre-order that release from iTunes HERE and get the song Dirty Old Man immediately. The below 6 tracks are different from the “official releases” and the descriptions and information is quoted from the info that was made available on Big O at the time these tracks were available:

“Chrome Dreams was planned for release in 1977 then abandoned. Instead Neil Young released American Stars & Bars that year. Four songs on Chrome Dreams were included in American Stars & Bars. A fifth, Hold Back The Tears, was rerecorded with a band and added to American Stars & Bars. The version on Chrome Dreams is a solo recording.One song, Captain Kennedy, was later released on Hawks & Doves in 1980. The remaining six songs were all eventually released but in rerecorded versions…”

“In the early 1990s, an acetate of Chrome Dreams emerged in the collector’s market in Germany, finally putting to rest rumours of the album’s existence. On the acetate bore a date and year, March 16, 1977 and all the songs.”

“…the tracklist below is the exact album submitted to Reprise as Chrome Dreams.” - Big O

Songs discription from Big O

1. Pochahontas 3.24m
Neil Young and instruments. Recorded Sept 1975. Released Rust Never Sleeps 1979 but this is “naked mix” with the vocals up front.

2. Will To Love 7.11m
Neil Young and instruments. Recorded May 1976. Released American Stars & Bars 1977. SAME

3. Star Of Bethlehem 2.42m
Neil Young, Emmylou Harris [vocals]; Ben Keith [dobro, vocals]; Tim Drummond [bs]. Recorded November 1974. Released American Stars & Bars 1977. SAME

4. Like A Hurricane 8.14m
Neil Young, Frank Sampedro [gtr]; Billy Talbot [bs]; Ralph Molina [drms]. Recorded November 1975. Released American Stars & Bars 1977. SAME. Note the version of the 2005 reissue of AS&B is 8.20m. Longer fade?

5. Too Far Gone 2.41m
Neil Young, Frank Sampedro [mandolin]. Recorded November 1976. Diff version found on Freedom released in 1989.

6. Hold Back The Tears 5.16m
Neil Young and instruments. Released American Stars & Bars 1977 but this is the solo version and not the same.

7. Homegrown 2.20m
Neil Young, Frank Sampedro [gtr]; Billy Talbot [bs, vcls]; Ralph Molina [drms, vcls]. Recorded November 1975. Released American Stars & Bars 1977. SAME

8. Captain Kennedy 2.55m
Neil Young and instruments. Recorded September 1975. Released Hawks & Doves 1980. SAME

9. Stringman 3.32m
Neil Young and instruments. Recorded live in concert March 1976. Diff version found on Unplugged 1993.

10. Sedan Delivery 5.22m
Neil Young, Frank Sampedro [gtr]; Billy Talbot [bs, vcls]; Ralph Molina [drms, vcls]. Recorded November 1976. Diff version found on Rust Never Sleeps 1979, this is longer and sounds like “grunge”.

11. Powderfinger 3.23m
Neil Young and instruments. Recorded September 1975. Diff version found on Rust Never Sleeps 1979. This is shorter and without Crazy Horse.

12. Look Out For My Love 4.06m
Neil Young, Frank Sampedro [gtr]; Billy Talbot [bs]; Ralph Molina [drms]. Recorded November 1976. Released on Comes A Time 1978. SAME

A big thanks to Big O for the great live and unreleased shows they make available each week and make sure to pre-order Neil Young’s latest release Chrome Dreams II from iTunes HERE.

Look who’s on Emusic… It’s our friend Sean from Daytrotter. This is a perfect way for them to get their site and their excellent musical recordings out to the masses. As one downloader said, “Really an excellent selection of music. Had never heard of daytrotter before either, and wish I had earlier.”

If you are unfamilar with Daytrotter.com then you are missing out…seriously. What better way to describe their site than to use their own words…

“Daytrotter.com: two featured bands, eight Daytrotter Session songs each week.

There are so many music/entertainment websites that copy one another, scrambling so fast to “discover” or present something new to the world. And just because you get there first, it doesn’t really make you an explorer. We did poke a stars and stripes into the moon, but we could always see it. We knew it was there. It wasn’t new. We can always come along and say we did, saw, heard something first, but we’re never right. What Daytrotter is attempting to do is to not kid around with you and tell you that we found something that you never knew existed. We are going to contribute to the musical landscape, not just toss it around like a used book or a stolen pick-up line. We’re going to give you something that you truly have never heard. We are not giving you songs from someone you love’s record album, thereby stealing from someone you love. We’re giving you exclusive, re-worked, alternate versions of old songs and unreleased tracks by some of your favorite bands and by a lot of your next favorite bands.

Daytrotter Sessions

These fine people – as they’re traveling through America’s heartland – take two hours out of their travels between shows to stop in for a Daytrotter Session at Futureappletree Studio One in downtown Rock Island, Ill. The name of the city is not ironic. They use borrowed instruments, play with their touring mates, utilize a often unkempt toilet, eat some food and then cram back into their vans for the last half of the drive. What they leave behind is a pile of ashes, sometimes a forgotten stocking hat and four absolutely collectible songs that often impart on whomever listens to them the true intensity that these musicians put into their art, sometimes with more clarity than they do when they have months to tinker with overdubs and experiments. These songs are them as they are on that particular day, on that particular tour – dirty and alive. We want you to make this your new home as it is ours. We promise that you will love it here.” - Sean at Daytrotter

Go download Vol. 1…for free of course, HERE. The track listing is below along with my favorite from the release.

The Days and Nights of Lust and Presumption - 31 Knots
The Future Pt. 1 - Voxtrot
Suffer For Fashion - Of Montreal
Ain’t It Strange - Dr. Dog
Untitled 1 - O’Death
Jut Jut/Lazer Wahnsinn - Jason Forrest
Slow Show - The National

(mp3) Untitled 1 (Daytrotter Sessions) - O Death

Jens Lekman has been a staple here at TPATS for quite some time so you can imagine our excitement that on October 9th, Lekman and Secretly Canadian will be releasing Night Falls Over Kortedala stateside. If you liked his prior work then I really think you will love this latest release. Bringing what’s great from the 50’s/ 60’s, what’s great about Swedish pop musicians, what’s great about pianos, horns, ukes, and a voice that everyone, boys and girls, should swoon for, is just the tip of the iceburg of why Night Falls Over Kortedala will be on most top ten lists by the end of the year. Highly recommended!

Below is a statement from the Secretly Canadian website about the release:

“Jens arduously labored over the songs on Night Falls Over Kortedala over the last three years between relentless tours (which ranged from full blown 8-piece ensembles to just Jens alone with a ukelele at the mic). Kortedala refers to a neighborhood in Jens’ hometown of Gothenburg, Sweden, where his studio Koredala Beauty Center is located. It also refers to a vague musical pop sound with hints of tropicalia that has been coming out of Gothenburg’s clubs over the last few years. Having more in common with Paul Simon’s Graceland, Jens’ latest is a response to more than an engagement in today’s Kortedala music of his Swedish peers. An exercise in insularity, Night Falls Over Kortedala has achieved its specific sound not from going out but from Jens staying in and coming to grips with the sounds he had in his head, or as he said, “from the sound of my own voice reverberating off my home’s old ’50s brick walls, from the ghosts of everyone who’s lived here before me clapping along with their little ecto-plasm hands.” - SC

Below is the track list and two songs from the upcoming release.

SONG LIST:
And I Remember Every Kiss
Sipping On the Sweet Nectar
The Opposite of Hallelujah
A Postcard to Nina
Into Eternity
I’m Leaving You Because I Don’t Love You
If I Could Cry (it would feel like this)
Your Arms Around Me
Shirin
It Was a Strange Time in My Life
Kanske Ar Jag Kar I Dig
Friday Night at the Drive-In Bingo

(mp3) The Opposite of Hallelujah
(mp3) Friday Night at the Drive-In Bingo

| Website | Purchase |

There is something real familiar about the music of Siberian. Listening to their new album, With Me, (released October 23rd) has brought on thoughts, not exact parallels mind you, but thoughts of such artists as mid-nineties Radiohead on Wolf and Crane , Coldplay, Snow Patrol, Interpol, and REM via the UP moments. Now I know that is a tall order to fill, but like I said, they aren’t those bands, but there are moments on the album that make me recall those bands. Maybe it’s the way Finn Parnell’s vocals ring out, maybe it’s the guitars, or the excellent instrumentation, maybe it’s my state of mind, but I assure you that With Me will be a solid release and a solid acquisition.

Immediate stand out tracks are Belgian Beer and Catholic Girl, Paper Birds, the above mentioned Wolf and Crane, and Islands Forever, but you can stream the entire album here and get a great feel of what Siberian has to offer. Recommended for those late nights alone on the road, the office, florescent lighting, and anywhere else you have time to think. Each song on With Me has the potential to be a soundtrack unto itself…and I guess what I mean is, that the songs Siberian create remind me of songs that are made for moments. The songs recall that feeling of chapters, those thoughts that you look back on, thoughts you have when you walked in the rain after a year long relationship ended, the moment you met that perfect someone on the subway, defining moments that Siberian could have been a part of and now, hopefully will be.

Below is a track from With Me, which will be released on October 23rd, and links to acquire.

(mp3) Belgian Beer and Catholic Girl

| Website | Myspace | Purchase |

Soul Is My Music: The Best of Bobby Patterson

Bobby Patterson’s 1966-1970 work for the Jetstar and Abnak labels culminates in this excellent two disc compilation. Not only does it feature some of the Dallas based soul/bluesman’s best work, but it also includes nine previously unreleased tracks (including a few alternate versions of songs that came out on singles).

Patterson resides somewhere in the soul/blues genre that Wilson Pickett and Otis Redding live in and this release has further solidified his place in it. He floats between a Motown and Stax feel, but sounding so much like similar artists of that day, unfortunately Patterson sometimes gets lost in the shuffle. That’s why this release, on the excellent Sundazzed label, is so important. It provides the listener with a chance to hear and experience the one and only, electric Bobby Patterson.

Over the years, Patterson has succeeded in promoting, producing, and writing for other artists, including working promotion at Malaco Records for 28 years. He currently does a weekday morning show on Dallas’ KKDA-AM and recently headlined SXSW’s Ponderosa Stomp. So he’s still belting those notes, and if you are in the Dallas area, I would only assume, that Bobby Patterson would be a must see show.

Below is an unreleased track from the collection with links to acquire. Hope you enjoy.

(mp3) Then You’ll Know (previously unreleased)

| Download | Purchase |

Quick post about the upcoming Child Bite release Gold Thriller. I really dug their last release Wild Feasts and from what I’ve heard from this one, they have succedded in producing a superior album. With thoughts of mid-ninties hardcore, but with todays technologies, blips, and ADD, mixed with experimental flare and surprisingly dancable songs, at least foot pounding..come on, and an energy that seems to be lacking in some facets of modern music, Gold Thriller succeeds to TPATS. The Wake County Fair is on it’s way and trust me, as I ride The Gravitron or The Himalayan reverse style, Child Bite will be the ones pushing me to the edge. Below are two tracks to give you an example of what we mean. Ape Along was my initial favorite, but it’s up in the air now. Enjoy.

(mp3) Don’t Do What Your Body Tells You To Do
(mp3) Ape Along

| Website | Myspace | Purchase |

Long awaited by myself, and probably half the world, is Radiohead’s 7 Lp entitled In Rainbows. The band has been giving glimpses into the album through concerts for a while now and finally on October 10th we all have a chance to hear the completed work through digital download, oh and it’s practically free considering their own “make your own price for the digital download” feature. Now I know I will pay quite a bit more because this has to be the absolutely greatest and coolest idea I’ve ever heard for a band to release their material. And not just any band, but one of the most popular bands on the planet.

Since they are no longer tied to a record contract, they pretty much have the right to do what they want, and apparently they want to please their fans. Also available in December, and I have already pre-ordered this, is a box set that for £40 you receive a cd version, a vinyl version, outtakes cd, photos, lyrics, and a free digital download (available Oct. 10th). This has to be hands down the most genius way to release an album yet. Shaking up the man are we…leave it to Radiohead.

Below is the tracklist for the album:

CD 1

15 STEP
BODYSNATCHERS
NUDE
WEIRD FISHES/ARPEGGI
ALL I NEED
FAUST ARP
RECKONER
HOUSE OF CARDS
JIGSAW FALLING INTO PLACE
VIDEOTAPE

CD 2

MK 1
DOWN IS THE NEW UP
GO SLOWLY
MK 2
LAST FLOWERS
UP ON THE LADDER
BANGERS AND MASH
4 MINUTE WARNING

Below are two tracks of live material that will appear on this release. They are both from the June 5, 2006 concert in Boston.

(mp3) 15 Step (live)
(mp3) Videotape (live)

BONUS

For you loyal readers we do have a treat. “From The Basement is a music series that features the most intimate live performances from the finest musicians on the planet”. Well below is the track Videotape from these performances. It is Thom solo with piano and it’s absolutely amazing. You can download all the performances (Thom Yorke, White Stripes, and Kieran Hebden & Steve Reid) in glorious high definition video through iTunes HERE.

(mp3) Videotape (From the Basement)

| Digital Download here | Radiohead Website |

Billy Joe Shaver is a true classic Country & Western troubadour. That’s a fact. Unfortunately he never became a house hold name, but among other musicians he is an inspiration. Others who have recorded Shaver’s material include a who’ who list; Kris Kristofferson, Tom T. Hall, Bare, The Allman Brothers, Elvis Presley, and Johnny Cash to name a few.

Shaver’s real breakthrough came in 1973 when Waylon Jennings released Honky Tonk Heroes, an album composed almost entirely of Shaver penned songs. With that success, Shaver’s debut album, Old Five and Dimers Like Me, followed and was produced by Kris Kristofferson and released by Monument (Kristofferson’s label) in 1973.

That’s just a bit of history, but the album I wanted to focus on is 2004’s Billy and the Kid from Compadre Records. Maybe not a “classic” in the sense of the word, but a moving and touching album none the less. The basis for this release seems more therapeutic than anything else as we have Shaver and producer Tony Colton collecting and finishing songs by Shaver’s late son Eddy Shaver. The emotional struggles on this release are overwhelming and tear at your heart when you realize that within a matter of a year, Shaver lost his mother, wife, son, and moter-in-law. That’s a year no man should have to endure.

Shaver succeeds on all accounts with Billy and the Kid as an album. He lays out his broken heart for all to hear and makes a musically pleasing album considering the events that took place prior to this release. My favorite song on the album, and it’s listed below, is the song Fame. It is a stripped down song, just Shaver’s raw and warbled voice and his guitar. He’s thankful for what he has become and addresses his fame, his loss, and allows a glimpse of faith and love in the purest form. Shaver’s work is Highly recommended.

(mp3) ~~Fame~~

| Download | Purchase |

Emusic has done it again with making available a true classic in Johnny Hartman’s The Tokyo Albums. This release is comprised of 2 rare Japanese only albums: Trane’s Favorites and Johnny Hartman Meets Terumasa Hino.

Trane’s Favorites was originally released only in Japan, later being released in the US as For Trane. This seriously has to be one of Hartman’s greatest recordings, and certainly one of his greatest jazz sessions. “Trane” clearly is in reference to John Coltrane, in which Hartman work with and released one of my all time favorite records, John Coltrane and Johnny Hartman.

The second album that appears on this collection is another Japanese session from 1972, featuring trumpeter Terumasa Hino. This album was never released here in the US. The album is more laid back and allows for Hartman’s own interpretations of these songs to shine through. A real highlight for me with this part of the release is Hino’s solo pieces. I was not familiar with Hino, and his solos seem to really compliment Hartman’s gorgeous rich baritone voice.

The Tokyo Albums tracklisting is as follows:

1. Greensleeves
2. On a Clear Day
3. My Favorite Things
4. Violets for Your Furs
5. Nature Boy
6. Summertime
7. Why Did I Choose You
8. Shadow of Your Smile
9. Fly Me to the Moon
10. Nearness of You
11. I’m Glad There Is You
12. On Green Dolphin Street
13. My Funny Valentine
14. Sometimes I’m Happy
15. S’posin’

I highly recommend you download the album. The below track is from the Johnny Hartman Meets Terumasa Hino part of the album and is Hartman’s own interpretation of the classic My Funny Valentine. Enjoy.

(mp3) My Funny Valentine

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New Site

2007-09-27T18:50:00.000-04:00

Please update your links:
We have moved to:

www.permandskullet.com

http://mhayhurst.blogspot.com will no longer be updated.

Can't Stop Watching

2007-08-01T23:46:00.000-04:00

unofficial video for the new Kanye West single “Can’t Tell Me Nothing,” which stars comedian Zach Galifianakis and Will Oldham

From Claw Productions:

Director: Michael Blieden
Producers: Zach Galifianakis, Inman Young
Director of Photgraphy: Michael Blieden
Editor: Michael Blieden
Blieden's notes:
On June 1, 2007 I got a one line email from Zach that said, "this sounds like a joke but it is true. kayne west wants me to lip sync his new video. can you fly to nc to shoot it? " There was very little discussion in advance other than that. Hiring the cloggers was Zach's idea, and Inman was able to track them down. For all the ridiculousness you see here, I have to say we took the song very seriously. We asked ourselves, "What if two farmers from North Carolina set out to make their own Kanye West video...and succeeded?" Special thanks to WIll Oldham for his inspired turn as the inbred cousin. This was my first real use of slow motion and lip syncing, which is a common trope in music videos. The cloggers needed something very fast to clog to, so we played the song back at 150% speed. That was good clogging tempo, but challenging for Zach to lip sync to. Special thanks to the rowdy group of 12 year olds hanging out in front of the library in downtown Sparta who started yelling "Whacha filming NERD!" while I was all alone with the production gear.

Dave Matthews and Tim Reynolds

2007-08-01T12:22:00.000-04:00

I just received Live at Radio City: Dave Matthews and Tim Reynolds in the mail today and I'm floored! You won't find me writing about many "main stream" bands on this site, but when something like this hits the shelves, it would be a disservice not to mention it.

Before this release I had my old copy of Under The Table and Dreaming and Dave's last double cd with Tim Reynolds. That was it. I really love Dave's sound, but sometimes the band gets in the way. That stripped down "blue" cd is an amazing record that always finds it's way into the cd player, and when I listened to Live at Radio City for the first time I immediately knew this was going to be in the same category.

First off it's a lot of the newer material, Lilywhite era and beyond, some of it I wasn't fond of on the proper releases, but after hearing these songs in the intimate acoustic setting, they are new and instant favorites. This cd really lets, not only dave and tim's guitar skills shine, but dave's talents as a songwriter are brought to the fore front and it's like hearing some of these songs for the first time.

There is a wonderful cover of Neil Young's Down By The River, and a few staples such as Crash, Dancing Nancies, and Two Step throughout the 2 disc set. The release is truly a remarkable effort and for $15.99, it's worth every penny. This is a must own album, not just for DMB fans, but for fans of acoustic music at it's best.

CD TRACK LISTING:

Disc 1
1. Bartender
2. When the World Ends
3. Stay or Leave
4. Save Me
5. Crush
6. So Damn Lucky
7. Gravedigger
8. The Maker
9. Old Dirt Hill (Bring That Beat Back)
10. Eh Hee
11. Betrayal
12. Out of My Hands
13. Still Water
14. Don't Drink the Water

Disc 2
1. Oh
2. Corn Bread
3. Crash Into Me
4. Down By The River
5. You Are My Sanity
6. Sister
7. Lie In Our Graves
8. Some Devil
9. Grace Is Gone
10. Dancing Nancies
11. #41
12. Two Step

Pre-order Live at Radio City: Dave Matthews and Tim Reynolds

Megafaun

2007-06-26T09:10:00.000-04:00

From the moment I heard the name of the North Carolina based Megafaun, I knew I was in for a backwoods treat. Sometimes, just by a name you can conjure up an idea, sometimes this disappoints, but in this case, Megafaun succeeds on all accounts.

This band and their cd Bury the Square was one of the reasons, for not only my hiatus, but for renewing my desire to just touch on music that touches me. I can't write about mindless pop that just passes by on other sites, but have an investment in what I'm hearing. When I heard Bury the Square the first time I was blown away. Enough so, that I had to stop what I was doing to re listen to the amazing music that is created by Brad Cook, Joe Westerlund, and Phil Cook.

It made me realize that I needed to stop and just listen. I feel like I'm a better person because of it and I owe that to Megafaun.

I know that I just put alot on them there, but music speaks differently to everyone and for me and that moment, it said stop and just listen...so I listened. Of course numerous albums, songs, musicians, artists were listened to during the past month, but only Bury the Square can say it caused it, and the track Where We Belong specifically.

Below is an interview with Brad Cook about the band, where they've been and where they are going. Also below is the track Lazy Suicide from Bury the Square...enjoy.

Interview with Brad Cook of Megafaun...

PS: I read somewhere that you moved to North Carolina in 2005 (same as me). Is that correct? Where did you move here from?

BC: Yeah! We came here from a college town in northwest Wisconsin called Eau Claire. It is roughly an hour and a half east of Minneapolis.

PS: Before Megafaun, you where in the band DeYarmond Edison. Tell me about DeYarmond Edison briefly and about the transformation into Megafaun?

BC: DeYarmond Edison was a band that was initially centered around the songwriting of Justin Vernon, a friend that we had all grown up with. My brother, Phil, also in Megafaun, and I had been performing with Justin for about three years prior to moving to North Carolina. We had two other drummers and then enlisted Joe with the move. We spent our first year here redefining our creative process and group dynamic, mainly through an outlet at the Bickett Gallery here in Raleigh. I think we really exhausted our possibilities within that time frame and felt like last August was a good time to move on. Part of that transition was that Phil, Joe and I really discovered a great working relationship during that time. Justin decided to pursue other interests (solo recordings and bands Ticonderoga and The Rosebuds) and we started writing songs together.

PS: Who writes most of the material?

BC: We all do, it is pretty collaborative. Someone usually brings in the majority of an idea and then we put it through the edit process, which for us has really been recording.

PS: I know how you sound to me, and it's stated above, but how would you describe your sound?

BC: I guess I would say we are folk reconstructionalists. We really subscribe to the idea of reconstructing folk songs and folk ideology. We have collectively and individually spent a lot of time studying pre war string bands and depression era folk, simultaneously immersed in 20th century avant-garde composers and a lot of 60’s free jazz. Finding that balance between improvisation and structure. I guess it sounds pretty common these days, but we really try to take it’s understanding serious beyond trend.

PS: Your music seems to be laden with folk and Appalachian influences.
Who/What are some of your / the bands influences?

BC: First and foremost, The Band. I can’t tell you what that group has done for us. We all grew up in Band households and the older we get, the more that takes effect. Older folks like Fred McDowell, Roscoe Holcomb, Reverend Gary Davis and James Booker from New Orleans have been huge. David Tudor, Morton Feldman, Anthony Braxton, Milford Graves, Albert Ayler and Xenakis from the classical/jazz school. Modern folks like Gastr Del Sol and the Akron/Family have been inspiring as well.

PS: Do you feel music should inspire the listener and/or the performer?
Do you think it can be transformational?

BC: God, yes. I don’t think I could tell you how important that is to us. We like pop music and what not, but I just prefer the energy of spontaneity and I love the auditory tradition of folk music. I love feeling like I am learning and involved and Inspired and that has happened to us many times! So it can happen. We try to search it out in artists/performers and we try to reflect that in our music as well.

PS: I want to say once again, if I haven't already that "Bury the
Square" is an outstanding album and tracks like "Where We Belong" are so amazing it's scary. How did you approach that song? It's over 11 minutes and just about in the middle, 5:28 in or so, it switches gears and becomes an intense, yet beautiful journey. I guess what I'm asking is tell me more about this song and how it came about.

BC: I actually wrote that particular piece about a week before DeYarmond Edison parted ways. It is lyrically and musically very much about that transitional process. We really tried to reflect the element of hope in change and moving forward.

PS: Just to lighten it back up a bit, can you name me a band or musician, past or present, who you flat-out love and think more people should be listening to. What's one of your all-time favorite recordings by this band/musician?

BC: Collections of Colonies of Bees. They are flat out incredible! Their last record came out on Polyvinyl, which is awfully surprising on an aesthetic level since they are a heavily improvisational electro-acoutstic quartet! The album is called Customer and it is just plain incredible. Their live show rivals any of the post-rock luminaries as well.

PS: As I was listening to the cd, when I got to Tired and Troubled, I was taken to a strange place. Where did I go?

BC: Joey’s brain! Joey wrote this song that was initially inspired by a cut from the Harry Smith anthology. He spent a lot of time finding the rhythmic identity of the song, than completely recontextualized it as a tape piece ala musique concrete.

PS: I know you just co-founded Burly Time Records with Grayson Currin. How is it running a label?

BC: I love it! It really taps into an energy that isn’t being consumed with trying to promote you own band, which after eight years, can be quite frustrating. Gray and I have very similar approach, yet our differences really keep us from getting lazy. We couldn’t be more excited about the two records we released and the feedback has been very positive!

PS: I think Grayson told me there was a limited run of "Bury the Square".
Will we have a full out re-release on Burly Time? Is there new material that we have to look forward too?

BC: Well, I kind of eluded to this in the last response, but I am reluctant about using Burly Time to release Megafaun at this time. Right now I can put all of my business/cheerleader energy into Bowerbirds and Horseback, which is really nice. Having to share that energy with Megafaun would feel unfair to everyone involved. We would love to find a home for Megafaun most definitely, but I want to keep the two separate for now. I would love to get our own thing going and retire to BTR! As for new material, we are well underway!

PS: What are you up to right now, music-wise? (Current or upcoming recordings, tours, projects, etc).

BC: Megafaun is putting together a fall tour at the moment, which we are really excited for! Joey and I are also doing the long distance recording thing with our other group, Emotional Joystick. EJ is the mastermind of a Minneapolis artist named Tom Wincek. We have been working with him for almost four years. His new record is heavily based on recontextualizing 70’s German minimalism. It is really fun and challenging material!

PS: And finally for some fun, if you could `redeem'' any piece of music,
what song do you feel needs redemption, whether it's by Megafaun or someone else?

BC: Man, good question. Probably a Phish song. We love 80’s Phish and not for irony’s sake!

PS: Thanks for taking the time to sit down with us and we wish you all
the success.

BC: Man, thank you!

Thanks again to Brad Cook for taking the time to talk with us. You can visit Megafaun online and make sure to check out Lazy Suicide below.

mp3 Lazy Suicide

E - Bird Interview

2007-06-25T14:04:00.000-04:00

Tue Ebert, lead singer and founder of the Copenhagen band E Bird, took the time to sit down with us to talk about their latest effort. Below is a track from the release and mark my words, this is a band to watch. Enjoy.

PS: First off, let me say thanks for sitting down to talk with us about the band and your recent EP, Real Tigers Made of Paper. I know you already told me in the initial email, but how did E Bird form and where does the name of your band come from?

TE: Well, E Bird started out as a solo project. I had recorded some songs of mine, but didn't really know what to do with them. Shortly after I was invited to perform a show at a club in Copenhagen, and within a week I had to pull a band together. So we had to make the songs work and arrange them really fast, but I think that was a good thing.

PS: You are a relatively new band. How would you describe your sound and who are some of your key influences?

TE: I don't like the term indie, I guess, you could say, that it's been worn out, but still if I had to I would probably call the music a kind of indie folk. It's melodious but at the same time there are always elements that's trying to play "against" the melody and leave some sort of tension to the song, and I think it's that tension in music that excites me, combined with other things like the lyrics and melody, of course, but I don't like music that's to clean in the sound.

PS: What aspect of making music excites you the most right now?

TE: Right now I am in the process of writing new songs. That excites me, but of course it's not exciting all of the time. I guess I always like the feeling when you finish something, like recording or writing a new song, and you can move on to something new.

PS: Do you feel music should inspire the listener and/or the performer, or just be made as entertainment?

TE: I think music should be inspiring, challenging and entertaining. Music as merely entertainment doesn't interest me.

PS: What is the music scene like in Copenhagen, and how are you guys being received?

TE: I think there are a lot of good things happening right now. You see a lot of new bands and independent labels coming up and it seems like the possibilities to do things your own way, without a major label in your back, is getting much better. We are still quite unknown in Copenhagen. I am living in Berlin at the moment and we have just finished our first EP, and before that we had only played a few shows, so naturally we're still an upcoming band.

PS: How was the recording process for the REAL TIGERS MADE OF PAPER EP?

TE: Well, I think it was a good process, a bit tough, though. We have a small basement studio where we did all the recordings and mixing. We did everything our self and none us had done much recording before so we had to try a lot of things to see what worked and what didn't work. It was both exciting and tiring. But in the end, I am really happy about the final result and there is of course a great deal of freedom in doing everything yourself, which I really enjoy.

PS: Morten Bue did the mastering for the EP and I know he has produced Figurines' LP, "Skeleton" and has mastered such artists like Arab Strap and Junior Senior. How was it working with Morten Bue on the mastering of the EP?

TE: It was really cool. When you have spent so much time on something it's very difficult, almost impossible, to remain objective about it, so it's really nice to have someone seeing things from another point of view. Morten Bue was easy to work with and he is really good at what does.

PS: Name a band or musician, past or present, who you flat-out LOVE and think more people should be listening to. What's one of your all-time favorite recordings by this band/musician?

TE: At the moment I am listening to a lot of Canadian stuff, and especially the three bands Destroyer, Sunset Rubdown and Frog Eyes. They most definitely have something in common, but I also think that each one of them have something that makes them quite unique. They are still rather unknown here in Europe and I don't really know why, I mean, they're making pretty amazing music! Besides that I like a lot of the things Will Oldham has done, and especially the "I See A Darkness" LP.

PS: With an EP under your belt, what's next? What are you up to right now, music-wise? (Current or upcoming recordings, tours, projects, etc).

TE: At the moment we're not playing together, because I moved to Berlin after we finished the EP, while the rest of the band is still living in Copenhagen. Right now I am in the process of writing new songs, as I said before, but in the beginning of the fall I will return to Copenhagen and we'll play a couple of shows. Recently, a couple of small labels have shown some interest in the band. Hopefully, we'll be recording our debut album in the beginning of next year.

PS: Thanks for taking the time to sit down with us and we wish you all the success.

TE: My pleasure.

Thanks again to Tue for taking the time out to speak with us. Check them out online and enjoy an outstanding track from the Real Tigers Made of Paper EP.

mp3 Empty Avenues

Woods

2007-06-25T13:39:00.000-04:00

One month to the day of a month long vacation from here. Sometimes, and I hope some of you will understand, but sometimes, you get burnt out on music. What I mean by that is you are getting so much feed to you that sometimes you don't know what's good anymore and you don't listen to albums with the passion you once did. Hell, you're lucky to be able to listen to a full album period. With a full time job in tv production, a wife and home,... I never thought I would get to that point, but that's what happened. Almost forcing myself to come back with a slew of material only to be taking four steps back.

During this hiatus I had the time to sip some whiskey and listen to albums again. Listen to music that mattered to me, listen because I wanted to not because I had to or because I told someone I would. To be honest I thought I was going to walk away from here in the night, just call it quits, and enjoy my music, but after sitting down with music from Doug Wallin and Ralph Stanley, music from the Apps and south, modern marvels such as the ever inspiring Will Oldham and Mariee Sioux, and a whole cast of other characters, I've returned. Better, more refreshed, I don't know, but certainly more passionate about taking the time to write when I want. My suggestion is to rss the blog and when something new comes out, you'll know it. If you stopped reading that's fine, I enjoyed you reading in the first place, and I don't know the reason for writing this, cathartic I guess, but...

Neil Young: Time Fades Away

2007-05-25T08:14:00.000-04:00

I'm taking Memorial Day Weekend off so here's a treat in my absence. I made this available back in 2005 and it seems only fitting to make it available here again for a limited time. Make sure you sign the petition to get this released onto cd. It seems to be working with Massey Hall and Fillmore finally being officially released, maybe we can get this one next. Enjoy the holidy.

"Anyone who has followed Neil Young's career knows enough not to expect a simple evening of mellow good times when they see him in concert, but in 1973, when Young hit the road after Harvest had confirmed his status as a first-echelon rock star, that knowledge wasn't nearly as common as it is today. Young's natural inclinations to travel against the current of audience expectations were amplified by a stormy relationship between himself and his touring band, as well as the devastating death of guitarist Danny Whitten, who died of a drug overdose shortly after being given his pink slip during the first phase of tour rehearsals. The shows that followed turned into a nightly exorcism of Young's rage and guilt, as well as a battle between himself and an audience who, expecting to hear "Old Man" and "Heart of Gold," didn't know what to make of the electric assault they witnessed.

All the more remarkably, Young brought along a mobile recording truck to capture the tour on tape for a live album and the result, Time Fades Away, was a ragged musical parade of bad karma and road craziness, opening with Young bellowing "14 junkies, too weak to work" on the title cut, and closing with "Last Dance," in which he tells his fans "you can live your own life" with all the optimism of a man on the deck of a sinking ship. While critics and fans were not kind to Time Fades Away upon first release, decades later it sounds very much of a piece with Tonight's the Night and On the Beach, albums that explored the troubled zeitgeist of America in the mid-'70s in a way few rockers had the courage to face. If the performances are often loose and ragged, they're also brimming with emotional force, and despite the dashed hopes of "Yonder Stands the Sinner" and "Last Dance," "Don't Be Denied" is a moving remembrance of Young's childhood and what music has meant to him, and it's one of the most powerful performances Young ever committed to vinyl. Few rockers have been as willing as Young to lay themselves bare before their audience, and Time Fades Away ranks with the bravest and most painfully honest albums of his career -- like the tequila Young was drinking on that tour, it isn't for everyone, but you may be surprised by its powerful effects."AMG

An outstanding live album and a must for any Neil Young fan. Enjoy Time Fades Away...

.: Time Fades Away
.: Journey Through the Past
.: Yonder Stands the Sinner
.: L.A.
.: Love in Mind
.: Don't Be Denied
.: The Bridge
.: Last Dance

.: ZIP File of Time Fades Away

Sign the petition to get the album released on cd

Midtown Dickens: Oh Yell!

2007-05-24T08:40:00.000-04:00

Released May 15th, on Durham's 307 Knox Records, Oh Yell! is not only one of my favorite releases of the year, but one of the best Spring/Summer albums to be released in a long while. Road trip thoughts with star lit dreams, Midtown Dickens' Oh Yell! has been a long time coming.

Midtown Dickens are the lovable, laughable, and musically talented Catherine Edgerton and Kym Register. They play a hybrid brand of "Anti-folk / Naturalismo", that is more about having fun and singing from the heart than anything else. Their man-made tools of choice include banjos, accordions, guitars, and basically anything else that's laying around, but it's their god given gifts, their hands, their hearts, and their vocals that are what really shine.

On their debut, Oh Yell!, Edgerton and Register create songs that we can relate to wrapped in beautifully instrumented packages. They sing about visiting their mothers, love life, jobs, and even eating hot dogs at a Bulls game. But that's life, not just for them but for all of us. And that's what I think I like most about Midtown Dickens...Their real.

The cd features 16 songs, if you include the secret track, and, minus the Christmas material released last December, it seems to be in large part their repertoire. What I like about the lineup on Oh Yell!, and this might not mean much to some of you, but I like seeing the progression of a band. Because they have included not only their newest tracks, but some of the older fan favorites as well. You can definitely tell they have grown as musicians and lyricists, on the new material, it just sounds fuller and more alive, but it's nice to hear songs like AM Dial and Tetris be included here as well. I think it sets up a time line, and this is just me talking here, I could totally be wrong, but I think bands sometimes ignore where they came from and only look forward and I'm really happy that instead of releasing an 8 or 10 track cd like most bands do today, that we get 16 songs, the past and the present, all of pure folk delight.

They may remind some of you with hints of Kimya Dawson, (mentioned here yesterday, and that graced Durham for Midtown Dicken's cd release party), or a stripped down folk version of the nineties girl cuddlecore / punk band, and I use the term punk so loosely and in tongue and cheek it's not even funny, Cub. They take elements of what those two examples have done for music, and whether they are influences or not, take what they have learned and have only improve upon it.

My favorite tracks on the cd are the first three tracks, Eggs and Toast, Guitars, and Airplane. They possess a feeling that really encompasses what it is to see MD live. Whether it's the harmony that you fall in love with, the banjos and guitars that make me jealous, or the way Edgerton tells a tale, Midtown Dickens will be your new favorite band and if you listen just right, you can here them crack a smile.

On a youtube clip of the girls performing Tetris, we see them sharing a mic, laughing , and having fun, and I want you to remember that. When they perform, live or on cd, they seem to be one unit. One person, one heart, once voice. A lot is to be said about this, because in a world of a "me" mentality, it's inspiring to see someone who is thinking of "you" first.

Now I keep referring to sweet, and cute, but on a few tracks, including What A Bore, also one of my favorites, we hear something at the center of this sweeten shell that almost resembles, along with the instrumentation, a crashing wave... building it's musical crest as it gets closer and closer to the shore line where it's forced to break by end. A song that stands out in the field like a rock where nothing will grow and this is where I think most people start in life, a barren space and as we stroll further and further away we encounter grass, bushes, trees...life. Man it's a great song!

I know, it kind of seems like I've gone off in a tangent from the "review", take what you will from it, but I think to enjoy listening to any band really, to get the full picture, it's nice for someone to be able to tell you how they feel when hearing the band. You get a real sense, or worth, rather then to churn out clinched lines and.10 cent words. So that's my piece and I figure that's why you read in the first place.

Below are three tracks for you to enjoy and links to acquire. They will be performing at Bull City Head Quarters on June 17th with Kaia Wilson and later in the month on June 23rd with The Future Kings of Nowhere. The local scene here is blossoming more and more every time I look around and Midtown Dickens is near the front leading the pack.

.: What A Bore
.: Eggs and Toast
.: AM Dial

| Myspace | Download | purchase from 307 Knox |

The National: Boxer

2007-05-23T19:23:00.000-04:00

I've heard way too much about The National creating "grower" albums. If you can't hear great music from the start then...I really don't know what to say. From day one Alligator was a top album from last year, and I know Boxer will remain in the top ten of this year by the end. My two cents on an album that will be covered to death from now until Fall.

I've listened to the album from start to finish more than once and it succeeds on all accounts. I'm no way comparing them, but Arcade Fire's Neon Bible (which I never choose to talk about here, but which is another exciting album from this year, better than Funeral imo just so you know) is torn from the same sacramental cloth as Boxer. Orchestrated more beautifully than you realize and Berninger is remarkable as our troubadour on this journey within the shadowed walls and shallow canals of our genesis. Below is the keys to the Fake Empire.

.: Fake Empire

| website | myspace | download | purchase cd or vinyl |

Kimya Dawson

2007-05-23T09:47:00.000-04:00

Hopefully you had a chance to see Kimya Dawson at the Midtown Dickens cd Release party on May 12th. My wife's graduation from Duke and family and friends being in town prevented me from going to the event, but hey how often do you get a chance to see your wife graduate from Duke and how often now a days can you actually spend Mother's Day with your mom, so the trade off was fair.

Honestly I wasn't familiar with Kimya Dawson. I mean I knew she was in Moldy Peaches and I knew of her solo endeavors, but I never listen to them and that was by far my first mistake. Have you heard Kimya Dawson? Simply amazing!

I downloaded two albums, one entitled Knock-Knock Who?, and the other, My Cute Fiend Sweet Princess, and I downloaded them with no questions asked. I came away with two releases that have not only been on constant rotation here for the past few weeks, but are essential to my continued fascination with female "folk" singers.

The songs in these collections are raw stripped down acoustic numbers that lay bare boned on the cold cement floor of an abandoned cinder block home with tattered Strawberry Shortcake wallpaper. Plain and simple, her music is pure lo-fi, pop cultured laden, child-like anti-folk. And we like it!

Below are two tracks (one from 2004's My Cute Fiend Sweet Princess and two from 2006's Remember That I Love You) to sample and links to acquire. Enjoy.

.: The Beer
.: Underground
.: I Like Giants

| website | myspace | download |

J. Tillman: Cancer and Delirium

2007-05-22T08:27:00.000-04:00

It's truly unbelievable how good J. Tillman really is. I could just leave it at that and the songs would speak louder than anything I have to say, but I'll try.

Morgan King, Yer Bird Records, (and congratulations to him for this amazing release) gave me a copy of J. Tillman's Cancer and Delirium recently and this has been near hands down a cd that has not left my side.

Gone are the overly striking comparisons to Neil Young and through his own abilities as a musician, took what was to be learned from Jason Molina, drunken nights with Ryan Adams (I'm imagining now), and has even surpassed, which I thought could not be done, Long May You Run J. Tillman, and has created the emensly rich and dark masterpiece that is Cancer and Delirium.

Banjos abound, guitars corralled, organs bellowing, and Tillman's broken cries make Cancer and Delirium one of the best winter albums I've ever heard. I know it's not winter, but some albums, Tonight's the Night for example, is a winter album to me. One that needs to be experienced in the dark, preferably cold, room alone with a bottle and your thoughts. Like a night alone in a cabin amidst the woods with Jeremiah Johnson ideas and a candlelight ceremony of epic proportions, J. Tillman is everything that is right with music today.

From the absolutely gorgeous Ribbons of Glass, to the somber, church like devotion of How Much Mystery, to the thoughts of the rusitc Tim Buckley dream I had when listening to A Fine Suit, J. Tillman's Cancer and Delirium must be placed in, not only "best album of the year" praise, but possibly, one of the top 25 albums of the past 5 years. It's just that good.

Below are two tracks from the release with links to purchase. I know I say "must own" alot, I wouldn't say it if I didn't mean it, but if you don't buy another album all year, buy this one, you won't be sorry.

.: Ribbons of Glass
.: Evans and Falls

| myspace| purchase | Yer Bird |

Gannon: Luck or Fate

2007-05-21T10:01:00.000-04:00

Beach Boy harmonies flood your earphones as Room 40 opens with organ keys and lyrics asking you to "Step into the room, everyone's waiting" This is the opening track, appropriately placed on Gannon's 2006 release, on Hot Rod Porta Records, Luck or Fate. With Shins thoughts and a Jim Noir cadence, only better, Room 40 is one of the most overlooked songs from last year...and this includes by me as well.

You see Gannon (AJ Pyatak) sent his cd along with numerous videos (for The Collective) last year and while the videos have been thrusted into the music scene here by way of the tv show, a proper review of the album was never given. Fast forward through an office move and misplacement, and luck would have it that Luck or Fate would fall back into my lap.

I will briefly mention some highlights from this release in preparation for the review of his latest release, The Company Pays and an interview with Mr. "Gannon" himself.

Besides Room 40, my favorite track on the release, a few other tracks standout as must listens. From the bluesy feel without being harnessed by the Blues / and instrumentation that conjures up thoughts of that background track from the Gorillaz on SM Skatepark, to the 60's rhythm pattern that makes me want to listen to Under the Boardwalk or Sam Cooke's Another Saturday Night again on Send it Back, to the excellent uke and vocal stylings that are so good you can't place them on Shipmates. Luck or Fate provides a song for everyone, and is an album that needs to be in every car for that road trip you've always dreamt of taking.

Throughout the album you will notice the layers of sound and music on almost all of the tracks. It's the intricate background instrumentation that allows for the catchy guitars, ukes and, more importantly Gannon's vocals to hover off the page into the forefront. One of the qualities I like most about Gannon is his unique sound that sits with you like a long lost friend. You might not think so at first, but wait, next week you'll be saying who was that --- And I'll be here to tell you it's AJ Pyatak of Gannon.

I keep going back and being bothered by the above paragraph in which I name a few of the excellent tracks as standouts, because as I listen more and more as I write this, it really occurs to me that this album as a whole, not just tracks, but from start to finish, is a true gem in the sea of lost albums. I implore you to visit Gannon, enjoy Room 40 below, and stay tuned here for The Company Pays review, and an interview with Gannon himself.

.: Room 40

| website | myspace | purchase | download |

The Bowerbirds / Summer Hymns at Bickett Gallery

2007-05-20T15:13:00.000-04:00

Had a great time last night at one of the final shows at Raleigh's Bickett Gallery. The night opened with the Deleted Scenes, followed by Pittsboro's The Never, and then a real highlight of the evening was when Billie Karel and Roger Gupton sat down for an impromptu acoustic performance.

I think this was, in some part, in honor of what Molly Miller, Bickett's founder, has done for this community. Karel's gorgeous vocals intertwined with Roger's acoustic guitar and harmonies made for a truly beautiful experience. Their cover of Emmylou Harris' Wrecking Ball was one of the best renditions of the song I've ever heard. I was floored and I'm still thinking about it today. Below is a photo and I hope to see them perform again sometime soon.

After the first three acts, I was thinking what a great night, but nothing could prepare me for Summer Hymns' Zachary Gresham. This was an acoustic solo set that was just mind blowing. I don't think people liked it as much as I did as the room began to clear after only a few songs in, but the small group, who were nestled on the floor, got an amazing show. His solo renditions of (the set closer) Pity and Envy, Mr. Brewer (Cackle, Cackle), and Bombay Brown Indian Ink, were just a few of the highlights for me. It was as if time stood still as we watched and listend in awe. Gresham's intense and genius like lyrics where nothing short of inspiring. Below are a few pictures, but they really don't do this justice.

Download Summer Hymns covering Neil Young's Mr. Soul live at the 40 Watt Club 2/7/7.

.: Mr. Soul

The reason I went out last night was for the show's headline event. A chance to see The Bowerbirds in an intimate space before they go out on tour with The Rosebuds. I had this feeling that if I didn't go and see them now, it might be the last time I would be able to witness them with a small crowd. Not because they won't play small venues, no, I don't get that feeling at all, but, as I wrote in the review, the band is about to explode...and with the release of Hymns for a Dark Horse, and after the tour with The Rosebuds, I have this feeling alot of things are going to change...and by change I mean for the better.

Once you hear them live, once you listen to their cd, you have no choice but to become a fan. It becomes second nature like taking a breath, only this breath is full of earth, life, and desire. I hope everyone has a chance to experience the absolutely beautiful song of The Bowerbirds. Below are a few photos from the experience.

Download two tracks from The Bowerbird's Hymns for a Dark Horse.

.: Dark Horse
.: In Our Talons

Nathan Oliver

2007-05-19T10:03:00.001-04:00

When I heard Nathan Oliver's music, literally my first thoughts were, "where has this guy been?". How have I managed to overlook a great talent in my own backyard? ( Unfortunately I'm sure this happens more often than I like to think) Then I read his one sheet and the first line reads, "Where has Nathan Oliver been hiding all this time?" See I'm not the only one, but I'm glad I found him.

On his S/T release on Pox World Empire, Nathan creates somber/shaded pop-folk with just enough edge, just enough to get you moving and excited about what music in the Triangle area can be.

He belongs somewhere in between an Elliott Smith heart with a Shins/Spoon feel, scoring a Wes Anderson film, and underlying it all is something I've yet to put my finger on. That something that is waiting to break out. Who knows, maybe it has and I'm just not privy to it yet, but what I do know is that Oliver joins a growing cast of amazing troubadours living in the area and you just need to listen to the tracks below to hear it.

.: Black Ship White Sails
.: State Lines Pt. 1

Nathan will be performing tomorrow night (May 20th at 8pm) at The Blend in Chapel Hill with The Watchers (Chicago), Shakermaker, Betty and the Boys, and LA Toy.

[website] [myspace]

Dawn Landes

2007-05-19T09:56:00.001-04:00

Dawn Landes’ bluegrass cover of Peter Bjorn & John’s “Young Folks.” Dawn recorded the song with WST (We Sorta Tried) Bluegrass Band from Austin, TX.

Unfortunately it's not just the pretty voice of Landes, because the background singers kind of get on my nerves, but I got this in the mailbox and thought I'd post it. I love when people cover great songs...sometimes it works.

.: Young Folks

The Avett Brothers

2007-05-18T14:50:00.000-04:00

At over six years of perfecting their art, The Avett Brothers have become one of North Carolina's premiere acts. Sold out shows, the constant touring and perfecting of their sound, a recent gig on Conan, and now a new lp released May 15th entitled Emotionalism.

The Avett Brothers are the trio made up of brothers Scott and Seth Avett, alongside friend Bob Crawford. They make acoustic folk music in the sense of their instruments of choice, but through the intertwining of guitars and banjos, we hear perfect 60's harmonies and lively backdrops, that create a perfect hybrid of rustic thoughts and pop dreams, not to mention the overly sincere vocals that are to die for.

Emotionalism is a culmination of a passion that runs deep. The album expresses a beauty and desire for love, laughter, and heartfelt memories, all the while, living in coffin thoughts. The desire for such things, no matter how presented, are forgotten in today's world, on not only a musical level, but in life in general. Listening to the brothers Avett is like being washed with creek side waters emerging clean and refreshed and reborn in hope.

If you haven't experienced The Avett Brothers by all means follow the links. Below is a sample track.

.: Will You Return?

| website | myspace | purchase | download |

The Bowerbirds

2007-05-18T00:40:00.000-04:00

Hymns for a Dark Horse marks the first release for the aviary known as The Bowerbirds, released on the newly formed Raleigh/Durham label Burly Time Records (Grayson Currin and Brad Cook)

There is a real sense of passion and heartfelt warmth that I hear on this release that was only sparsely played out on the prior material I've heard from the band. A polish that has yet to fade as I spend these summer days opening my wings to dry out and be embraced by the comforts of The Bower Birds.

Without a doubt, The Bowerbirds (Phil Moore, Beth Tacular, and Mark Paulson) are the latest gem to be mined from the earth in these parts...and for good reason. They make acoustic wind with gypsy eyes that blows over the brook and through your hair like a graced hand, providing that sanctuary I know you've been looking for.

A real sense of comfort and openness overcomes me as they take flight --- Moore's vocals fill the speakers and don't let go as he plays with the instrumentation and harmonies of Tacular, and we get a real sense of a band being stronger as a whole than it's individual parts.

Let go and enjoy the ride as they perform their dark earthy folk/pop tunes for all to hear--- Trust me, they'll bring you back upon the shores in which you started the journey, only this time your heart has been warmed and you're ready for the release.

Below are two tracks, with Dark Horse being a more fair representation of the album as a whole, but I had to include In Our Talons because it's a favorite (along with The Ticonderoga). The Bowerbirds are currently on tour with The Rosebuds, but you can get your fill locally this Saturday, May 19th at The Bickett Gallery alongside Summer Hymns, The Never, and Deleted Scenes.

.: Dark Horse
.: In Our Talons

| website | myspace | Burly Time | purchase |

Black Dragon

2007-05-17T10:14:00.000-04:00

Eating Birds finds that balance between uneasiness and sanctuary. As the bells chime, you are tranced to ease, but when they slow, an empty ocean of despair and unknown sets in - Reverbing at your inner membrane, awaiting what is to come. You shutter with Lynchian fear, and what you hear, and you will find out if you let yourself, is at the heart of the Black Dragon.

I've written about Black Dragon (Adam Hudson Spittler) before and my amazement with his tape-scapades of near madness and soul searching trips, His first album, Terrible Tide, is no exception. I keep trying to have Black Dragon be my first cd release under this "label" I want to create. Maybe one day...and yes it's that good.

Below is "Eating Birds"...

.: Eating Birds

|myspace|

Son House

2007-05-17T00:16:00.001-04:00

When you're dragged out, scaly skinned from the heat of the sun, laid up on the desert floor searching for the precipitation between the cracks of time...This and only this, is when Son House can be revealed to you in all his glory.

Pure Delta Blues in all it's heavenly glory ---Pony Blues has been quenching my 2 & 2 is four thoughts of fish bone nights and Pony $ blues....

.: Pony Blues

| purchase | download Son House |

Melanesian Choirs

2007-05-16T20:31:00.000-04:00

More material from my trip to Brazil.

This album was not only a favorite on the trip, but the children that we visited loved the music just as much as we did. The chants on this album have always held a special place in my heart and have comforted me through many a day. I highly recommend the purchase of the album and will list a few tracks below for download. A limited post so experience while you can. A really moving experience.

.: Jisas Yu Holem Hand Blong Mi
.: Jisas, Masta Mi Save

|purchase|

Dennis Wilson: Pacific Ocean Blue

2007-05-16T20:15:00.000-04:00

When I was in Brazil, did I mention that, anyway, one of the staples on the ipod was Dennis Wilson's Pacific Ocean Blue. I think I've ran this into the ground here, but if you are still not sure where to find it, I 've re-listed it below. I have a whole bunch of cds to review from some really amazing artists. A desk full to be exact. Thanks for being patient and thanks for sending me your material. More to come now that life is settling back into it's mold... I promise.

.: River Song
.: Dreamer
.: Thoughts of You
.: Pacifc Ocean Blues
.: You and I
.: Farewell my Friend
.: End of the Show
.: What's Wrong
.: Moonshine
.: Rainbows
.: Friday Night
.: Time

[zip file]

David

2007-05-16T19:56:00.000-04:00

Is this just David or David & the Citizens, either way Now She Sleeps In A Box In The Good Soil Of Denmark is an outstanding track. This Swedish band bridges the gaps between my days and nights as of late and the above track is available for free download along side a slew of other free tracks from the Friendly Fire Recordings Record Sampler on emusic. Other highlights include another David track, Elk City, Faunts, and The Old Soul. A great little sampler and the track below is a great example of the release.

.: Now She Sleeps In A Box In The Good Soil Of Denmark

2007-05-09T23:39:00.001-04:00

Please excuse the mess as design changes are being made.

Bishop Allen

2007-05-08T08:33:00.000-04:00

Dead Oceans first release is a long awaited one for me. After a year long adventure and 12 eps later, Bishop Allen releases it's sophomore effort, The Broken String, on July 24th. Below are three tracks from the release that demand your attention. This is setting it self up to be a must own!

(mp3) Rain
(mp3) Click Click Click Click
(mp3) Butterfly Nets

grindhouse posters!

2007-05-08T08:25:00.000-04:00

The guys over at Something Awful have implored their minions to create "grindhouse" style posters for some of your favorite films. 11 pages so far and a great read! See them all here.

Priestbird: In Your Time

2007-04-24T13:19:00.001-04:00

An epic battle at the sands of time, sonic guitars juxtaposed against the ghostly vocals create an ebb and flow through a galaxy of stars... light pierces the soul upon crescendo and sets us free. Season of the Sun recalls these thoughts and it's the track available below and it's the second track on Priestbird's release In Your Time.

Formally Tarantula AD, a shedded carcass, a molting if you will, from earth to flight and Priestbird was worth the wait.

The three original members (Saunder Jurriaans, Gregory Rogove, and Danny Bensi) still tackle the AD, but with the new tracks they have created as Priestbird, they have reached a higher plain, a welcoming blast of rock that summons up feelings of a modern high bred of a Black Floydian Sabbath, with hypnotizing vocals and striking instrumentation that was strived for as AD, but finally achieved fully as Priestbird. My favorite tracks are Season of the Sun, the thrashing yet luring, Hand That Draws, and the chilling title track, In Your Time. The instrumentals Jackyl and Guest Room are also mesmerizing. Highly recommended!

mp3 Season of the Sun

Don't miss these guys on May 11th at Local 506 with Pit er Pat.

[Stream the whole LP] [website] [purchase]

8088 Records + 307 Knox

2007-04-24T13:00:00.000-04:00

q: what is this 8088 collective thing?

a: we are currently working on a way to allow independent artists a way to promote themselves and sell their records as well as give indie records stores and venues a way to contact artists through our site. this is a massive undertaking that involves some extensive programming so don't expect it to be done anytime soon. however, we want to be able to provide resources to all the wonderful people that we have come across in the underground music world as much as possible, and the collective is one way that we are going about it.

A great article in the Independent all about the "collective". Visit them online at 8088Records.com

On a similar note, you might want to also check out Durham's 307 Knox Records, where they and the artists work together in putting the music out, allowing the artist to have much more control over what their product look, listens and feels like. Check them out online at 307knoxrecords.com

307 Knox will be releasing Midtown Dickens' cd on May 12th at 305 South, and I hope to have a review of the disc as soon as it's in my hands.

William Fitzsimmons: Goodnight

2007-04-23T21:10:00.000-04:00

If soothing, almost heart breakingly, stunning acoustic folk is your ear, and it's always mine, then William Fitzsimmons' recent release, Goodnight, are the lullabies you have been searching for.

From the soft calls, to the banjo and guitar laden background on Hold On With My Open Hands, to the journey we take on Find My Way Home, to the pain soaked, but elegantly composed Everything Has Changed, Fitzsimmons has created a near masterpiece in every since of the word. He has created a life changing album, at least for me, providing the soundtrack for many changes in my life and I feel more secure, safe, in knowing Goodnight has been there.

While a few tracks might ride the line for some, Goodnight as a whole, and more importantly the tracks mentioned above, are songs that any musician would die for. Some people wait their whole life to create a small crack into the wall of music, but with Goodnight, William has broken that wall down and when he crawls through the crumbling rocks he looks up at you, embraces you and calls you his brother.

A must own release that sits nestled in my top 10 of 2007. Highly recommended and a must own!

mp3 Everything Has Changed

[myspace] [purchase]

New "The Collective" on the air

2007-04-23T12:12:00.000-04:00

A new The Collective has hit the air this past weekend. With the new show, a new site. We scraped the old one and provided a new site, with upcoming concerts and shows of interest in the area, online versions of the videos in the shows, and mp3's of some of the songs featured. If you live in the "triangle" make sure to check out the website and also catch us on tv, we air on Time Warner Cable's Channel 24 - Mondays & Fridays at 9:30pm, Wednesdays at 10pm, & Saturdays at 6:30pm.

Avey Tare and Kria Brekken: Pullhair Rubeye

2007-04-20T08:43:00.000-04:00

A magical dream that we awake from. Those moments of life through blurry eyes. That line in which we cling to between realities. This is where Pullhair Rubeye lives and prospers.

With this release and Panda Bear's earlier release, "The Animal Collective" are taking over my best of lists for '07 like a storm. Pullhair is an album that needs to be experienced. It's not something that can be just thrown on, it's an event, a journey, and it's one of the most thought provoking and mind bending experiments I've heard this year.

Officially being released as reversed versions of the recorded tracks, and by all means I respect the artist's wishes and in some ways it thrives this way, but just listen to tracks like Opis Helpus or Who Wellses in My Hoff in the reversed versions of the lp (the forward versions) and be blown away. They had to figure that it was going to be done, even if it's the consumer who flips them in some editing program.

The perfect release in my opinion would have been a two disc release, with both versions, heck I'd spend the extra dough for that. I know there are those who will say that I, or anyone, shouldn't reverse these tracks to hear what was recorded because this is not what was released, but I say to you, just listen...just listen. Below is the released track and a reversed version. Enjoy.

mp3 Sis Around the Sandmill (lp version)
mp3 Sis Around the Sandmill (reversed)

Website
Purchase

Windmill: Puddle City Racing Lights

2007-04-04T00:13:00.000-04:00

Matthew Thomas Dillon is Windmill and with his first proper release, Puddle City Racing Lights, due out April 16th on Melodic, available now for advanced download, be prepared to be blown over.

Vocals that conjure up mixed thoughts of Daniel Smith or Daniel Johnston and musical stylings that play modern circus pop based and built upon the intertwining of keen piano skills, swooping arrangements that incite, and sprinkled with the otherworldliness of The Flaming Lips spirit. All this, accompanied by a slew of friends...and a new Famile is born.

Overall, Puddle City Racing Lights is an ambitious debut record and one of the bright spots of the year so far. The release takes us on a great musical journey and I'm sure it's one that will demand multiple spins throughout the year. Below is a track from the release with a link to acquire the advanced release.

mp3 Tokyo Moon

[myspace]

Advance Download Windmill

Animal Collective Live at Tavastia

2007-04-02T14:09:00.000-04:00

I've been listening to so much Animal Collective lately that I thought I would post this concert from 2006 in Helsinki. I got this from IA and you can grab individual tracks there, but here it is below in a zip. Enjoy.

01 Street Flash
02 Did You See The Words
03 Reverend Green
04 Cuckoo
05 Safer
06 Grass
07 Peace Bone
08 We Tigers
09 Fireworks
10 Purple Bottle
---
11 Banshee Beat

mp3 Zip File

Animal Collective
Date: July 3, 2006
Venue: Tavastia
Location: Helsinki. Finland

Taped by: elamamme.aaniraita@gmail.com

Download The Animal Collective

CocoRosie: The Adventures of Ghosthorse & Stillborn

2007-03-27T09:36:00.000-04:00

Readers of the P&S will remember the love affair we have with CocoRosie and their siren songs. Well on April 10th we will be knighted with their third installment, The Adventures of Ghosthorse & Stillborn. An eerie title with an absolutely ghostly cover full of rich symbolism, and with the direction the Metallic Falcons took us on last year, this isn't that much of a surprise.

I've heard a few of the tracks off the new album and while I was blown away on all accounts, there has been a transformation in our ladies. Gone are the purely abstract coos and seductions with every breath and in their place a more beat influence of rhyme and reason. A new chapter if you will, and a welcomed change if you ask me. While I love the soft and twisted calls of their prior releases, something here sounds refreshed and reborn in the death of night. I think you have to do that, you grow, you mutate, you adapt, not only to survive in the land of music, but to survive as an artist.

Touch and Go says, "This album is a departure from the obscured blur of stained glass rêve to a more self-exploitive memoir. Parts are dreamy and parts are savage, but, as with an opera where death represents a secret heaven, the whole record feels like a black diamond in the snow"

While I am listing Rainbowarriors as the track below, I will say that it is not the best track on the album, but I'll let you decide for yourself on April 10th. In their words...

"Rainbowarriors live by the hero myth; Rainbowarriors ain’t nothin’ to fuck with.”

mp3 Rainbowarriors

Bonus
mp3 K-Hole (live at Touch & Go's 25th Bash 2006)
mp3 South 2nd (live at Touch & Go's 25th Bash 2006)

Website

Download CocoRosie

Panda Bear: Person Pitch

2007-03-24T13:24:00.000-04:00

In terms of innovator I have always thought of The Animal Collective as the Beach Boys of our generation. This may be a stretch for some who only know the "surfy songs" of The Beach Boys, but just visit Pet Sounds and you will get my drift. With Panda Bear's solo effort Person Pitch we find out who's the Brian Wilson of the group. Whimsical, playful, light airy vocals, the album just cries out "Brian Wilson", only with a a wicked modern twist that only Panda Bear could do.

I think this is by far the best release of the year. I am so in love with this record that ever since I got it, nothing else has been listened to. From start to finish, layer upon layer, the listener is whisked away to that world where dreams are made of. Where nothing else in this world, all the sadness, suffering, and hopelessness dissolves away, and a smile comes across your face.

Less frantic than anything the Animal Collective has put out and not nearly as depressing as 2002's Young Prayer. A rejuvenated, refreshing sound, that if this album and the upcoming Avey Tare release, Pullhair Rubeye, are any inkling of the direction of what the next Animal Collective album may sound like, then we are in for an amazing trip and a monumental release.

Hands down, the best LP of the year, and one of the most influential and innovative releases I've heard in a long time, Panda Bear's Person Pitch is a remarkable stroke of genius. Below is a track from the release with links to acquire. Enjoy.

mp3 Comfy in Nautica

Website
Purchase

Download Person Pitch

For Squirrels: Baypath Road

2007-03-21T10:30:00.001-04:00

As I've mentioned before, I attended The University of Florida for my collegiate career during the mid-nineties, and during that time I was exposed to so many amazing bands. One of my favorite bands during my stay there was For Squirrels.

For Squirrels formed in Gainesville, FL, in early 1993. The original lineup featured Jack Vigliatura IV on vocals, guitarist Travis Tooke, drummer Jay Russell and bassist Bill White (with Jack Griego eventually replacing Russell). They played their first show as a band in August 1993 and later, recorded a CD in I think six days for approximately $6,000. That album was Baypath Road and it was released in early 1994.

Later, For Squirrels signed to Sony 550 Music in January of '95 and released the "formal" LP, Example. On the rise, and finally making a name outside of the southern east coast, tragedy struck. On the afternoon of September 8, 1995, the band and their tour manager were traveling I-95 south, returning home from the previous night's performance at C.B.G.B. in New York, when a tire blew out and the vehicle overturned.

Singer Jack Vigliatura (21), bassist Bill White (23), and tour manager Tim Bender (23) all died that day while Drummer Jack Griego (28) and Travis Tooke (23) suffered multiple injuries. It was a hard time in G'ville and I would assume a hard time for anyone who knew of the band. It was a shame to loose so much talent so soon and I can only imagine what could have been.

All that being said, Baypath Road is a hell of a debut and quite possibly, in my opinion, a superior album to their second release, Example. You get a better sense to all those early R.E.M. references and get an album that personifies pure college rock. At many points raw and not as polished as Example, and the sound quality is in no comparison, but songs like Kill the Birds, Flagboy, and Plymouth are standouts that provide a real look into the passion of For Squirrels and the talent that was ripped away from us. A band that is sorely missed and a band that hopefully you will revisit.

Unfortunately, Baypath Road has been long out of print, with numerous talks about a remastered version being produced, but as far as I know nothing is slated as of yet. I was able to obtain a copy while in school and it has been a treasured possession. Below are mp3 versions of the album and I hope you enjoy it as much as I do.

.: Flagboy
.: Kaberet
.: Go on Up
.: Kill the Birds
.: Red Robin
.: Nathaniel's Song
.: Unicycle
.: Plymouth
.: Left Behind
.: 3

Bonnie 'Prince' Billy : Live Edinburgh 2006

2007-03-20T08:35:00.000-04:00

[photo of BPB live giovedì, febbraio 02, 2006 by Huncke]

I mentioned this show last month I believe, but since it is no longer available for download, and we're trying to regain some steam here, I'd thought I'd post it.

Bonnie "Prince" Billy w/ Harem Scarem
Queen's Hall, Edinburgh, Scotland
April 12, 2006.

Oldham performs with Harem Scarem in this radio broadcast. IT was not the complete show, but was the complete broadcast. The original post credited leex100 on Big O with the sharing of these tracks, and in turn credit is given here. Enjoy a really great performance.

.: Intro
.: A Minor Place
.: Love Comes to Me
.: Molly Bawn
.: New Partner
.: Is it the Sea? - My Home is the Sea
.: Master and Everyone
.: I See a Darkness

Also make sure to grab The Strange Form Of Life EP, released today. New Parter, which is featured above, is also featured on this EP.

Download Bonnie "Prince" Billy

[more amazing photography by Huncke]

Charlie Louvin

2007-02-23T08:11:00.000-05:00

I was wandering on emusic this week and noticed a familiar name, one I hadn't thought of in a while. It was Charlie Louvin, from the Louvin Brothers. To be honest, I was hesitant at first, I mean Louvin hasn't released an album in over ten years, but I am so glad I did. This country music legend has put out an album of epic proportions!

The self titled release is being put out through Tompkins Square Records and was recorded in Nashville during the Spring and Summer of 2006. It features guest performances by a who's who list including Elvis Costello, Jeff Tweedy, Will Oldham, Tom T. Hall, George Jones, Bobby Bare Sr., Tift Merritt, Marty Stuart, David Kilgour, and members of Bright Eyes, Lambchop, Superchunk, Blanche and Clem Snide.

What was really nice to hear, is that the album features several Louvin Brothers classics as well as country favorites first popularized by Jimmie Rodgers, the Delmore Brothers, the Carter Family, and the Monroe Brothers. The music here is absolutely tremendous. Louvin's 79 year old vocals warble you back to simpler times of front porch swing memories and campfire family revivals. Think of this as Louvin's version of Johnny Cash's American Recordings or Kris Kristofferson' s This Old Road, and if you're a fan of any of the artists listed above, then give this album a chance, and see where you favorite artists got some of their roots and influences.

In support of his new album, Charlie Louvin and his band will tour the US extensively in 2007, including special summer appearances celebrating the artist's 80th birthday (July 7, 2007). Below is the track listing for the lp, links to purchase and/or download, and the song, Knoxville Girl (feat. Will Oldham)

mp3 Knoxville Girl

Track Listing
1. Must You Throw Dirt In My Face (w. George Jones)
2. Great Atomic Power (w. Jeff Tweedy)
3. Blues Stay Away From Me (w. Bobby Bare Sr. & Tom T. Hall)
4. The Christian Life (w. Eef Barzalay of Clem Snide)
5. When I Stop Dreaming (w. Elvis Costello)
6. Waiting For A Train (w. George Jones)
7. Kneeling Drunkard's Plea (w. Alex McManus of Bright Eyes)
8. Worried Man Blues (w. Kurt Wagner of Lambchop)
9. Grave On The Green Hillside (w. Tift Merritt & Joy Lynn White)
10. Knoxville Girl (w. Will Oldham)
11. Ira
12. My Long Journey Home (w. Paul Burch)

[website] [purchase]

Download Charlie Louvin

Sibylle Baier: Colour Green

2007-02-20T20:43:00.000-05:00

In the darkness of Germany, while her family lay fast asleep, Sibylle Baier would record on her reel-to-reel in the secrets of her room. And between 1970-1973 she had recorded the songs that would be released on this year's Colour Green.

Gorgeous glimpses into the real world of Baier's life, the listener establishes, rather quickly, a personal connection and sense of comfort. Coos of lullabies that teeter the line of felicity and sorrow. An intimate revealing as you look through someone else's eyes, as you look through her eyes, to unlock a world that is never too far away. Gently plucked and strummed guitar provides the listener just enough wind to float away on the voice of Baier and into your heart.

Colour Green is out on Orange Twin Records and is another must own of 2007. Below is a track and links to purchase and/or download.

mp3 Tonight

[purchase]

Download Colour Green

COLLECTIVE PODCAST 14

2007-02-20T20:22:00.001-05:00

.: Collective Podcast 14

My Brother the Native - Octopodidae
Clarence Carter - Patches
Frog Eyes - Idle Songs
Grizzly Bear - Owner of a Lonely Heart
Midtown Dickens - Airplane (demo)
Beirut - Postcards From Italy
Charles Latham - Nite Man
Rosie Thomas - Much Farther to Go

TRT: 30:02

Frog Eyes: Tears of the Valedictorian

2007-02-13T10:07:00.001-05:00

The release I think I'm most excited about during the first half of the year has to be Frog Eyes', Tears of the Valedictorian, out on Absolutely Kosher Records. They will be releasing the album on both cd and lp formats and is set to hit stores May 1st. If you are the true fan, I suggest a pre-order, in which not only will you get the album one month before street, you also will get a t-shirt. Now who doesn't like t-shirts.

From what I've heard of this album, it should be their finest moment. We have to thank the guys at Daytrotter.com for posting three tracks the band did last year, one of them being the track Bushels from Tears.... The lp version and the Daytrotter live version of Bushels are both listed below for your pleasure.

An interview with pitchfork can be read here and just a reminder folks, Frog Eyes will be touring the album and gracing North Carolina May 15th and Local 506. A show not to be missed!

.: Bushels
.: Bushels (Daytrotter Live)

03-17 Austin, TX - SXSW (Absolutely Kosher Showcase)
04-14 Victoria, British Columbia - Logan’s Pub
05-01 Seattle, WA - Crocodile
05-04 San Francisco, CA - Bottom of the Hill
05-05 Los Angeles, CA - The Echo
05-10 Denton, TX - Rubber Gloves
05-11 Austin, TX - Emo’s
05-12 Houston, TX - Proletariat
05-15 Chapel Hill, NC - Local 506
05-16 Washington, DC - Rock & Roll Hotel
05-17 Philadelphia, PA - Johnny Brenda’s
05-18 New York, NY - Mercury Lounge
05-22 Montreal, Quebec - La Sala Rossa
05-24 Toronto, Ontario - Sneaky Dee’s
05-25 Cleveland, OH - Beachland Ballroom
05-27 Chicago, IL - Schubas

Download Frog Eyes

Gnomonsong's been busy

2007-02-12T22:24:00.001-05:00

I've been talking about this loose amoeba of a collective for near a year and they have finally picked up an amazing amount of steam this Spring. P&S favorites, Papercuts and Danielle Stech-Homsy (Rio en Medio) will both be releasing albums on the Gnomonsong label, as well as the much awaited sophomore release by Jana Hunter.

Rio en Medio's album, The Bride of Dynamite, is out tomorrow, February 13th. Below are a few tracks from her previous effort to get you in the mood. On this album she is accompanied by Andy Cabic, CocoRosie's Sierra Casady, and Tim Fite. This has been near the top of my list of upcoming releases.

.: Everyone Is Someone's
.: Tiger Ear
.: Heaven Is High

Gnomonsong will also be releasing Papercuts' Can't Go Back, his second release, on March 6th. His debut, Mockingbird was amazing and I expect nothing less here. Make sure to catch him live at The Cat's Cradle March 3rd alongside Grizzly Bear. It should be a fantastic show! Below is a track from this upcoming release as well.

.: John Brown

Things have been off the wall in NC this year, more to come... I assure you.

Bonnie 'Prince' Billy : Live Edinburgh 2006

2007-02-01T07:15:00.000-05:00

Please tell me you got this already...
Bonnie 'Prince' Billy : Live Edinburgh 2006 w/Harem Scarem

Below is a sample....

.: Is It The Sea?...My Home Is The Sea

Will Oldham - guitar, vocals
Inge Thomson - vocals,accordion, percussion
Eilidh Shaw - fiddle, vocals
Sarah MacFadyen - fiddle, vocals
Nuala Kennedy - flute, vocals
Ross Martin - guitars

Clap Your Hands Say Y...Yikes

2007-02-01T00:05:00.001-05:00

What happens to a band when they go from obscurity to main steam? Hell, they are listed on iTunes new releases with a badge. The cd isn't all bad, but like many of my favorite bands, the studio system, and this pertains to films too you guys, fucks it up. Below is a track that I feel would have still have stood out no matter what.

.: Underwater (You & Me)

An American Trilogy

2007-02-01T00:00:00.000-05:00

In the Las Vegas Hilton on the night of Sept 2, 1974, Elvis sang An American Trilogy... Enjoy

.: An American Trilogy

Charles Latham

2007-01-31T08:04:00.000-05:00

Referencing Monday's post, last December I went and saw The Wigg Report perform at 305 South in Durham. Opening for them was Charles Latham, unfortunately a name I did not know, but one I will not forget.

I was chatting with a few people prior to the evening and asked about Latham. I was given loose comparisons, from a no safety net Rivers Cuomo type to the amazing Daniel Johnston and really had no idea how to interpret this. Everyone has their own interpretation, but I personally find Johnston a genius and an amazing talent so I was extremely excited about that, and even the Cuomo part was intriguing, so seeing Latham perform was going to be a real treat.

When I arrived, I was introduced to an extremely nice, although somewhat shy of a guy, and he handed me his cd and introduced himself. I was excited just by the artwork and couldn't wait to give the cd a spin.

When the show began, I was blown away. Now you know my usual taste. The singer/songwriter who writes between the lines, toting an acoustic guitar, singing with desperation in their vocals. A tri-fecta in Durham when Latham took to the stage. Like I said...I was blown away.

It was so much more than what I'd heard about Latham, and I can see where those comparisons lied, but there is no doubt that this was a one of a kind, this was Charles Latham.

After the show, and what a great show it was, I set off to Florida for the holidays. I brought four cds with me. The Midtown Dickens Christmas cd (thanks again Kym), two The Wigg Report cds, and Latham's Pretty Mouth. It was seven hours down to Jacksonville.

Pretty Mouth is a solid, clever, homespun effort that rides that tongue and cheek line from beginning to end. His lyrics are poetic in a Basquiat way, rising above the sea of exaggerated mediocrity. There's hurt and loss on the record, but pity is not what he's after, it's more an analysis of the human existence and the interactions and follies in this life. There are moments of pure astonishment, beautiful songs, rude songs, and some moments of pure genius as he tackles topics and issues not normally discussed in your everyday tune. Lyrical word play that might offend if you read it, but when crooned by Latham, works so well it's scary. Simply put, Charles Latham is someone you must experience. Whether its at a proper show, his cd on your headphones, or even a street corner (which he does do from time to time), it is essential that these lamented anthems be heard.

Like someone on his myspace asked, "Why are you in North Carolina?" I don't know this answer, but selfishly I'm glad. His music is at the forefront of what this area has to offer and it's exactly what I've been looking for. Below are two tracks from Pretty Mouth for you to sample. As mentioned before, you can see Charles Latham live on February 9th at The Duke Coffeehouse during the Anti-Folk Festival in Durham. Highly recommended!

.: Hard On
.: Nice (To Me)

[myspace]

The Wigg Report

2007-01-29T23:46:00.000-05:00

It's not often you find a great band that you never heard of in your own back yard, but that's just what I did near the end of last year. With two cds under their belt, (Seltzer and Flexi Slacks) The Wigg Report are hitting on all cylinders and hints in their sound rushed me back to my college years. When I say college years, I want it known that I'm not saying they sound like a band from 10 years ago, but the feeling they create when you hear their music, and especially when you hear them live, is an amazing rush of energy and pure emotion.

I keep telling myself that uttering The Wigg Report in the same breath with The Pixies, or The Violent Femmes even, would be blasphemy, you can't compare Black Francis and crew to anyone, but the more I hear the whole of their work, the more I have to draw a similar parallel between either one of these bands. It's not so much a "sounds like" comparison, but it's more a feeling I get when their music rushes through my headphones. Stephen Mullaney, Christine Fantini, and Ben Riseling , make up Durham's own, The Wigg Report.

Ben gave me a shout about the band and a gig they were playing late last year. It was a small venue, (shop side of 305 South) but in some ways, was the perfect place for me to see The Wigg Report for the first time, not to mention $1 PBRs. So much energy was placed into their stripped down punch that from that day, I was a huge fan.

Their music is a wonderful blend of minimal acoustic punk rock, mind blowing horns, electronics, and Mullaney's raw, alcohol soaked vocals. A sound that might be overlooked to a casual listener, but sample the tracks below, or see them live and I guarantee you'll be hooked.

Acoustic guitar, the remains of a drum kit, and a saxophone make up the base...yeah, that's right I said saxophone, but this provides the foundation in which they erect their layered structure of sound. It's an intoxicating ride and the sum of their creation is a sound that brings a unique touch, making The Wigg Report really stand out from the rest of local music.

*side note (This isn't their intent so much though, because from what I've experienced in my short time here, the Durham music scene is more like an interchanging working family. Band members from other bands will walk up on stage and help out their friends for a song or two while other bands in the audience dance and cheer their mates on. It's an amazing and embracing community that will most definitely be featured here regularly.) Back to the post already in progress...

And while I love the sax, madly played by former Beulah member Riseling, I must say I keep coming back to the tracks when he drops the brass and starts knob twisting (as witnessed on Barstow below). A great element of ghostly depth to provide a backdrop to the loose strings and the offset blending of Mullaney's and Fantini's vocals. On Barstow alone, we witness an intertwining chorus of a call and response feel, at first with each other, culminating with Fantini's cry between man and machine, all with an underling romance of "I'll be there when you fall". This may be my favorite track and it's one that has been on constant play for over a month.

There are other tracks provided below to round out the experience that are equally as good and I hope you enjoy the selection. The Wigg Report is hands down a great band with much promise and a bright future. If you are local, I highly recommend checking them out February 9th at the Anti-Folk Festival in Durham. They will be playing alongside P&S favorite, Midtown Dickens, and Charles Latham, The Future Kings of Nowhere, and Billy Sugarfix. Hope to see you there.

.: Barstow
.: Bucket of Blood
.: New York
.: Sun Is Out
.: Street Music

[myspace] [purchase]

Rosie Thomas

2007-01-25T22:54:00.000-05:00

First off let me say, January has been a bear of a month between, well, life in general. A month where there is so much to do, that can be done, opportunities, responsibilities, and it seems my hands were in everything near the end of last year that I eventually I just pulled them all back to reassess. For what it's worth, I thought I'd write that...on to Rosie Thomas

Blown away.

That should be all I have to write about Rosie Thomas' release, These Friends of Mine. A total collaboration between Thomas, Sufjan Stevens, and Denison Witmer, as well as many featured guests. Many people might argue with me on this (I remember you guys dissing my thoughts on Isobel Campbell's cd) but I thought this cd not only produced solid singles, like the one below, but as an album, could be listened to from start to finish without a missed beat.

Amazing and available right now for advanced download through emusic or itunes (retail March 07) and this has been on rotation today. Below is a track with links to acquire.

.: Much Farther To Go

[website] [myspace] [download]

Murs & 9th Wonder

2007-01-23T23:14:00.000-05:00

Murs teams up once again with 9th Wonder on 2006's Murray's Revenge and knocks it out of the park. This is what I've been listening too all week. Retrospecting 2006 with this one and loving every moment of it. For more info on Murs check him out here and an emusic link to download is below..

.: Dreamchaser

[download] [purchase]

Black Flag

2007-01-05T12:14:00.000-05:00

Over the holidays I got very nostalgic. My parents brought up most of my stuff from home and now it's in my attic. I have Baseball cards, gi joes, star wars figures (with all their weapons), but the must touching thing to me was my skateboard decks. All the days of Mark Gonzales, Natas Kaupas, Mike Vallely, Mike McGill, Steve Caballero, and Tony Hawk came rushing back. Enough that I grabbed one of the still complete decks and gave it a spin around supurbia. I loved skateboarding...I still do.

After that I had to go back in the vault and pull out all my old tapes and cds . Instead of posting tracks that I know you can still buy (hint hint, link below), I decided to post a show I got a while ago on a great site.

When the show was recorded I was not aware of one of the greatest hardcore punk bands ever (I was 5). But they were in constant play only a few years later. That's right 'm talking about BLACK FLAG!

I grabbed this show from Shaved Neck (great source for hardcore punk) and by all means want you to go check their site out. A great history source and some great shows up for sampling. They made it possible for me to have this show and I'm just passing it along.

Black Flag
Phoenix's Calderon Ballroom 1982

.: What Can You Believe
.: Black Coffee
.: My War - I've Heard It Before
.: Depression
.: Beat My Head Angst Wall
.: Slip It In
.: Modern Man
.: No More
.: Nervous Breakdown
.: My Rules
.: I Love You
.: Nothing Left Inside

*photo by Ed Arnaud (Copyright 1982-2005).

[purchase Black Flag]

2007-01-05T09:55:00.000-05:00

The waistband is finally shrinking back to it's normal size and the head is becoming less foggy. I took a week off to, I guess, just relax. Too much partying, too much work related stuff, too much football, excess, that is the word for the last few weeks.

I went to a few Carolina Hurricanes games, watched tons of football, awaiting my Florida Gators chance at BCS Championship status, some college hoops, a few concerts, and man was I tired after all that. Well now that the dust has settled on this new year, we shall resume better than ever. (Can we say resolution)

Well it's 2007 and I hope it is everything you hope for. Posts to come...

Beirut: Lon Gisland EP

2006-12-30T14:41:00.000-05:00

I have to admit that I wasn't head over heels for Beirut's debut, Gulag Orkestar, and in turn, I didn't mention it here, and I'm fine with that. On the other hand there were a few outstanding tracks on the lp, which made me wonder why not an extended ep or something. Well I just downloaded Beirut's Lon Gisland EP from emusic over the holidays and I was blown away. Elephant Gun and the re-tooled Scenic World (Version) are far superior to anything on the lp and if I did some Best of 2006 singles, then this might have just creeped in. Below is Elephant Gun, one of my favorite tracks from Gulag Orkestar, and a link to download...Do I know you or what.

.: Elephant Gun
.: Postcards From Italy

[website] [download]

Our Brother The Native

2006-12-28T10:47:00.000-05:00

I still can’t believe for some reason that what I have been listening to the past while are three young American guys (two aged 16, one 18) making this wonderful Animal Collective/Cocorosie/Ariel Pink influenced step child of a sound. We are of course talking about Our Brother The Native. Recently signed to Fat Cat, they released their ‘debut’ on the label earlier this year with the outstanding Tooth and Claw.

There is a great story on Fat Cat that explains the bands beginnings, but to sum it up we have John Foss and Josh Bertram living in Michigan and Chaz Knapp in California and all their recording to date have taken place with tracks being slowly built up, and sent between each other via e-mail for additions. Amazing huh. This is where I will ask you to stop reading and download the track below to understand what we’re talking about here….that’s ok, I’ll wait.

“Meshing picked acoustic guitars, piano, banjo, with percussion, cracked electronics, bird noise, radio static, children’s toys, they perform a neat balancing act between the prettiness of their songs / melodies and the self-inflicted damage of the noise threatening to spew out from its seams or peel back / melt its edges.” – Fat Cat

A fusion of sounds arranged in such a way that gives birth to a completely pure chaos. A free, loose album, that makes you almost afraid to open the door, but you do, and what you hear is so rich in it’s rawest elements, in it’s subtle nuances, that there is no turning back. This could have been included, like so many, in my best of 2006 releases, but it didn’t. So what I'll say is that Tooth and Claw was one of the most promising albums from a new band relasing in 2006. But no matter how you look at though, Tooth and Claw is a must own.

Enjoy the track, make the purchase, hey, you can even download it through emusic.

.: Octopodidae

[myspace] [purchase] [download]

Privacy

2006-12-26T14:00:00.000-05:00

The fog of a dream that Privacy (Laurel Knapp) creates with her gasping beauty is what has been getting me through the day. Out on Marriage Records is her debut Without Mercy, and is just $5 and a click from being yours. Below is a track from the eight track cd.

.: Pining

[purchase]

R.I.P. James Brown

2006-12-26T08:02:00.000-05:00

Just in case you were wondering, I had a great Christmas holiday. Freinds, family, turkey and wine. All the trimmings. The one thing I didn't expect though was to lose James Brown. Although by now, many will focus on his troubles of the past years, but all I think of when someone utters "James Brown", is the thought of great music. He was an innovator, an influencer, and a legend.

Below are two tracks. One, my favorite James Brown song from the Black Caesar soundtrack, and another from his backing band the J.B.'s, but he's there and it's just pure funk madness. RIP JB.

.: Down and Out in New York City (BC sdtk)
.: More Peas (J.B.'s featuring James Brown)

a Midtown Dickens treat

2006-12-21T10:06:00.000-05:00

Available on there myspace (and below) is one of Midtown Dickens' Christmas gifts. A wonderful tune involving Christmas and cowboys, what more could you want!

Unfortunately I won't be able to make it, but this Saturday, Dec. 23rd at The Broad Street Cafe, Midtown Dickens will be performing with Lindsay Cooper and Willie Mason. As a added treat, they will be giving away free xmas cds.

Below is the track, but if you need more, check out my previous post and please make sure to visit them online. If your local, you must check these ladies out, I demand it!

.: Cowboys for Christmas

[myspace]

Gentle William

2006-12-21T08:34:00.000-05:00

ne·glect Pronunciation (n-glkt)
tr.v. ne·glect·ed, ne·glect·ing, ne·glects
1. To pay little or no attention to.

Unfortunatley neglect has been the word here at the P&S this week. Family, material for The Collective, out of town guests, work...I guess it's just the holidays, but still it dissapoints.

One thing that has been getting me through this has been Gentle William. Gentle William is the moniker for Owen Gillham of Essex, England. He plays innocent and heartfelt music that can be listened to any time, any where. Elegant guitars are strummed and plucked as heavenly aural dreamscapes are painted with hope that everything will be alright.

His myspace explains, "Here we sit, immersed in old folk music records, and with the help of the odd cup of tea, we occasionally manage to drag ourselves over to the microphone, strum a guitar, frail a banjo, dust off an antiquated, wind-powered organ... etc etc etc. We take this opportunity to offer you the fruits of our labour."

And I take the opportunity to provide you with three tracks that he has been working on. They blow in on a prayer and help the remaining leaves fall to there final resting place. If you are interested in more of these Christian inspired soundscapes, you can contact him through his myspace to get a cd.

.: Untitled 8
.: Untitled 14
.: Untitled 16

[myspace and cd]

TOP 15 Albums of 2006 pt. 2

2006-12-15T08:20:00.000-05:00

And in continuation for you listening pleasure...pt.2 of the best albums of 2006.

Joanna Newsom - Ys
- featuring Cosmia

Midlake - Trials of Van Occupanther
- featuring Young Bride

Swan Lake - Beast Moans
- featuring All Fires

Cat Power - The Greatest
- featuring Lived in Bars

J Dilla - Doughnuts
- featuring Workinonit

Sunset Rubdown - Shut Up I'm Dreaming
- featuring Stadiums and Shrines II

Danielson - Ships
- featuring Did I Step on Your Trumpet

.: Best of 2006 pt. 2 Podcast

Subsribe
Visit us online here for The Collective Podcast and make sure to subscribe if that suites your fancy.

TOP 15 Albums of 2006 pt. 1

2006-12-14T09:43:00.000-05:00

Well everyone is making the best of 2006 and why not the P&S. This will be a two part post with this being Part 1 of 2. Below are 8 (in no particular order) of my top 15 albums of 2006, embraced sweetly in a podcast for your listening pleasure. Enjoy.

Sufjan Stevens - Songs for Christmas
- featuring I Saw Three Ships

Drakkar Sauna - Jabraham Lincoln
- featuring Om, John Surratt

Xiu Xiu - Air Force
- featuring The Fox and the Rabbit

Bonnie 'Prince' Billy - The Letting Go
- featuring Strange Form of Life

Metallic Falcons - Desert Doughnuts
- featuring Disparu

Thom Yorke - The Eraser
- featuring The Clock (Surgeon Remix)

Johnny Cash - American V
- featuring God's Gonna Cut You Down

Band of Horses - Everything All the Time
- featuring The Funeral

.: Best of 2006 pt. 1 Podcast

Subsribe
Visit us online here for The Collective Podcast and make sure to subscribe if that suites your fancy.

Dennis Wilson: Pacific Ocean Blue

2006-12-09T09:35:00.000-05:00

Due to numerous emails the past few months, below is a re-post of Dennis Wilson's Pacific Ocean Blue with individual tracks or a zip. This is one of my favorite records and I'm glad there is such an interest in it. It's a shame the album is still not available on cd yet. Enjoy.

Recorded from September 1976 through the Spring of 77, Pacific Ocean Blue has to be one of the best records ever made, period. For some reason there has been no official cd release ( edit: it has come to my attention that POB was released for a few month’s in the early 90’s. Thanks.), although in the early eighties they did released cassette versions of this amazing album. There are a few albums that have been on my must have list and when I found my copy of Pacific Ocean Blue, it was like Christmas x 10. In my opionion Dennis Wilson is highly underrated and the songs in which he wrote rival that of any Beach Boys or Brian Wilson tune. With the Beach Boys he released Forever, Love Surrounds Me, and Baby Blue, to name a few (although Love Surround Me and Baby Blue were scheduled to be on his follow up album to POB, Bamboo) and at the time of there release, they were by far the best songs on their respective albums. Some point to Dennis' increased role in the BB as being directly related to Brian Wilson's departure, and this may be true, but this increased role in writing and vocals helped give birth to , what I consider one of the greatest albums ever recorded, Pacific Ocean Blue.

When I was searching for the ablum a few years ago, I came across Dan Addington's website, a detailed history of Wilson's solo career, so check it out if you have the interest. It's a great read. Remember, these tracks will only be available for a few weeks, so sample them while you can and I really hope you enjoy Pacifc Ocean Blue.

.: River Song
.: Dreamer
.: Thoughts of You
.: Pacifc Ocean Blues
.: You and I
.: Farewell my Friend
.: End of the Show
.: What's Wrong
.: Moonshine
.: Rainbows
.: Friday Night
.: Time

[zip file]

THE COLLECTIVE: Episode 10

2006-12-08T15:43:00.000-05:00

Well it took a bit longer than expected, but we have Episode 10 of The Collective ready to hit the air tonight. We got a new editor and man is it nice. I really think this is the best show yet! You can view the track listings at The Collective website.

Erik Mattsson: One-Horse Town EP

2006-12-08T09:40:00.000-05:00

I just got a heads up email recently about Erik Mattsson and his online release, One-Horse Town Ep. An organ bellows out to start the opening track and a smile crosses my face. Slow picking on strings and Mattsson's vocals float in on the fog. This is how the 5 track ep starts out. It was essential for me to download the rest and what we get is an ep I've been listening too since the moment I got it.

For someone who performs all his own instrumentation on instruments that "would be perfect for a nine-year old beginner, but not for a twentyfive-year old"... this is a masterful acheivement. I personally think the music is great, especially the haunting organ that creeps up on numerous tracks.

"I wrote all but one of the songs in a cottage in Stockholm's archipelago, on the threshold to the terrace. The songs were then recorded in a dusty cellar south of Stockholm"...If you believe that a song takes on it's birth place as I do, then you can imagine the atmosphere that this ep creates. The songs roll in and linger with you, kissing the dew laden ground and then burning off as the grey of night turns to day. These songs belong in those moments, those magic hour moments where our two worlds collide.

A great listen and a must download. Below are two tracks, but you can download the rest at the Wild Geese Music website. Just click Erik Mattsson. Enjoy.

.: Go Down
.: One-Horse Town

[website] [myspace]

child bite

2006-12-08T08:46:00.000-05:00

I get emails all the time with new artists, band requests, promo material and I write about some. I appreciate everything I get sent, make mix tapes/podcasts wth some tracks, and then sometimes, when something is really good, I give a post here.

Child Bite is deserving of such a post as I'm in a non-stop repeat mode on the three tracks I've been given. It is said that "within caos there is order", and in turn, within Child Bite there is greatness.

Whether it's the hectic drumming, the noisy fuzzed out sound, or the whirlwind of ever-jabbing guitar and keyboard stabs, the music that Shawn Knight, Zach Horton, and Danny Sperrry make is an avant-garde and surreal experience. Recorded in two days at Chicago's Phantom Manor, the eleven songs featured on the band's debut, Wild Feast, are loud punk hearts living in modern day glass houses.

Below are three tracks from Wild Feast. Enjoy.

.: Bone / Sleep
.: From the Eighteen Hundreds
.: Broach for Two

[website] [myspace]

Clap Your Hands Say Yeah: Some Loud Thunder

2006-12-07T09:12:00.000-05:00

You know we, like every other blogger it seems, love us some Clap Your Hands Say Yeah. I also realize that most of you will know that they have a new record coming out, Some Loud Thunder, out January 30th. I just wouldn't be a friend if I didn't just remind you and post it here. Below are two tracks from their upcoming release.

.: Love Song No. 7
.: Underwater (You and Me)

[website] [myspace] [purchase]

Girl from Saskatoon

2006-12-07T08:26:00.000-05:00

Jens C Andreassen & Nathalie Bekkelund make up the absolutely wonderful band Girl from Saskatoon. Surprisingly hailing from Oslo, Norway, Girl from Saskatoon create some of the most beautiful "americana" sounds I've heard in a while. I'm talking about a highly produced sound that conjures up thoughts of every great American country artist and every modern day indie duo. Andreassen and Bekkelund create such a beautiful sound as their voices intertwine that I am literally taken back and just have to listen.

For some reason, and I don't know why, but it seems like everything I hear from "Scandinavia" is so clean, crisp, sharp, and I'm just talking about the instrumentation here, don't get me started on the pure icicle vocals that they breath. The instrumentation is pure and drives to the soul. It make you want to dance, it makes you want to smile, it makes you want to admire their imagination and devotion not to be another churned out band. Unique song-writing skills, elaborate instrumentation and voices that compliment each other so well you'd think it was divine.

Below are three tracks from their debut, appropriately titled, This is only the Beginning and a demo track from their upcoming release. A must listen!

.: Picks Me Up
.: I Wipe The Blood Off My Guitar
.: James Dean

.: "Demo"

[website] [myspace]

timber timbre

2006-12-07T08:06:00.000-05:00

I don’t know much about Timber Timbre other than what’s on their bleak myspace account, but I know my ears enjoy the sounds.

I’ve been enjoying the two tracks from the, When You Burn EP, this past weekend and thought I would just make the quick post and links to the tracks. From my understanding we have Christienne (organ), Mike (baritone, guitar), Lindsay (drums), and Taylor (guitar) making up the “group”, although lately, according to Taylor in an interview on the site, it’s been kind of a one-man-band as Timber Timbre evolves. However it works out, the two tracks below are great and you can purchase their previous 2005 release, Cedar Shakes on their myspace.

I tried to get in touch with these guys and nothing yet, but I just couldn't wait to post the tracks that have been on constant rotation. I'll update with info if I get it.

.: Oh Messiah
.: Patron Saint Hunter

[myspace]

Delphine Dora

2006-12-06T08:47:00.000-05:00

I wrote about Delphine Dora before (click here), but wanted to mention two pieces of new information. One, she has released a new album this year, BLABLABLA and is releasing a new album, Delphine Dora and Friends in February 2007 on Greed Records. Free form folk at it's best! You'll take the ride down the hole, but you'll enjoy every minute of it. Below is a track from the upcoming Delphine Dora and Friends cd.

.: Sexy People

[download FLOATING EXISTENCE or FOR CHRISTMAS for free] [purchase BLABLABLA]

Black Dragon

2006-12-05T09:45:00.000-05:00

Black Dragon is Adam Hudson Spittler's solo project when he's not playing with his full time band, Forest Fire. It's a project that he has been working on for years now,that consists of Spittler playing along 12 cassette boom boxes that gradually go out of sink. Since moving to New York, he is in the process of resurrecting a live version of the project with the help of his current bandmates.

Otherworldly and beautiful are the best ways to describe the sounds. As if we are intercepting a coded message that was meant for a music box love story, the sounds create a snowflake pattern as they evolve from mechanical vibrations into electrical signals. We've been enjoying these tracks for weeks. A must listen!

.: Boerum
.: Venison
.: 2 Dragon

[myspace]

Forest Fire

2006-12-05T09:44:00.000-05:00

Forest Fire is Mark Thresher, Myisha Battle, Adam Spittler, and Jeremiah Stewart and they reside in Brooklyn, New York. A Neil Young twang from a bootleg sound circa 69' was my first impression with the vocals, but with slow, minimal, in the box sound that sparked my interest.

I came across the band through my contact with the above post of Black Dragon and thought I would pass it along. Of the four tracks to sample on myspace, How High has definitely jumped out as a stand out and most certainly will be included on an upcoming mixtape. Speaking of mixtape did you get the one here yet, check back regularly, especially as Christmas time draws Nye. Below are two tracks from Forest Fire for you to enjoy.

.: How High
.: Psychic Love Star

[myspace]

Alasdair Roberts: The Amber Gatherers

2006-12-04T13:40:00.000-05:00

If you’ve been here a while you know my love for Alasdair Roberts. Well Drag City is releasing his latest, The Amber Gatherers, in January and from what I've heard already, it's going to be a must own.

Scottish folk that has you thinking of a crowded cottage with it's guests partaking in a nice dark beer, warming their flesh from a potbellied stove, and their souls on Roberts' vocals. To me, he creates winter albums, always has. Cold dreary wet days; when the snow is out, a nip in the air, any Alasdair Roberts album will do. But unlike his last album, No Earthly Man, which was a reworking of traditional death ballads, The Amber Gatherers creates a more uplifting experience with songs of life, love and living in Scotland.

Below is a track from the forthcoming, The Amber Gatherers, and links to purchase, and a previous post of live tracks.

.: The Old Men of the Shells

[website] [purchase] [Live songs here]

Quick Note

2006-11-30T22:37:00.000-05:00

Just a quick note. I hope you like the changes to the site. If you want to by-pass the front page and menu, and just access this blog only, please bookmark as either:

http://thepermandtheskullet.com

or

http://mhayhurst.blogspot.com

Either will provide you with a direct link to this page only. Thanks for reading, check out the new mixtape on the directory entry page, have a great weekend and hopefully I'll get time to post tomorrow. An all day shoot planned. so I'll do my best. Thanks again for reading and enjoy life.

Bird By Snow

2006-11-30T11:38:00.000-05:00

We’ve had a slow week here at the P&S (in terms of posts), but fear not, the momentum is picking up steam.

Fletcher Tucker is not only the founder of Gnome Life Records, but since 2002, has been producing work under the Bird By Snow moniker. He creates songs, like sculpture, writing as he records, chiseling away to flesh out his work of art.

He sings songs about a love for the world and the feeling that everything in the world loves him in return. Tucker has recorded three albums: “a red record of cyclical reverence called Antlers And The Sun; a black 7" of rebirth, clean face and clean eyes called Industrial Collapse; and a blue record of sweeping ideals, and hopeful moments called Sky.”

Sky is a vinyl release, full of light through broken glass folk, fractured and put back together in a beautiful illuminating arrangement. Stimulating instrumentation are the waves in which Tucker’s voice sails in and out of broken harbors and sea shanty towns. Sky is what has been on the phones while I’ve been updating this website and two tracks are listed below for your pleasure. Recommended!

.: The Sound and the River Within the Sound
.: Black Elk in the Mountains

[website] [purchase]

Dukes of Archipelago, Redstone Lake, & Driftwood Jack

2006-11-28T09:43:00.000-05:00

Thanksgiving. A time for thought and reflection. A time for family and friends. A time for turkey and all the trimmings. All the above sums up my holiday and I hope yours was well.

This past weekend I’ve been listening to the Montreal bands Dukes of the Archipelago, and through links from their myspace page, Redstone Lake and Driftwood Jack, all projects of the multi-faceted Jesse LeGallais. He is a writer of fiction, poetry, reviews for Left Hip Magazine, an excellent singer/songwriter, and has a knack for being apart of some great bands.

Driftwood Jack gives me a Southwest sound that would be the perfect soundtrack to any modern day western. The central focus lies with Jesse's vocals, sung unlike the following two bands, but nice, and pure, and possibly the most welcoming of the work I've heard. While the real highlights for my taste lies with the Dukes and Redstone Lake, Driftwood Jack provides a nice alternative and plays strong as a compliment to his other two ventures.

Dukes of the Archipelago play tight, but loose rock that gives me soft hints of CYHSY. A unique blend of LeGallais' strained vocals, novel lyrics, and striking instrumentation; less frantic, but without loosing the punch, the Dukes have been rocking the P&S all week. "They write songs with the heart of the forest floor and play them with the frenzied soul of the city." A must listen and highly recommended!

Finally, with broken down vocals and simple instrumentation, like a wooden floor with holes keeping LeGallais' voice from slipping through the cracks, we have Redstone Lake. Passionate, heart filled lyrics, bare bones, but subtle instrumentation, and possibly my favorite of his incarnates. Redstone Lake gives a true outlet for the poetry of the heart.

All are worth checking out and below are links to each band and tracks for you to sample. Enjoy.

Dukes of the Archipelago
.: Throw It On The Fire
.: All Called Something
.: Battle and Scars

Driftwood Jack
.: Your Eyes
.: Something I Simply...

Redstone Lake
.: Forest Fires
.: Everything Coloured...

[Dukes of the Archipelago] [Driftwood Jack] [Redstone Lake]

JULIE DOIRON

2006-11-27T14:54:00.000-05:00

Just the other day I was wondering when we would be getting another dose of Julie Doiron. It's been a little over two years since her last release and the shakes have defenintly set in. Well the cure is set to be released on January 23, 2007, with Doiron's new record, Woke Myself Up, out on Jagjaguwar.

Filled with heartbreaking confessional tales, from what I've heard so far, this is going to be an outstanding album. She sounds rejuvanated, reborn, and ready to take back what was hers to begin with. Below is the first track off this release. Enjoy.

.: No More

[website] [myspace]

Rio en Medio / Danielle Stech-Homsy

2006-11-22T10:34:00.000-05:00

Rio en Medio is the musical adventure of Brooklyn-based singer/ukulelist Danielle Stech-Homsy. Armed with her baritone ukulele and a gorgeous voice, she is the latest to join the inspiring Gnomonsong label, with this February's release of The Bride of Dynamite. I recently became familiar with A Bride’s Guide to Waiting Music, Stech-Homsy’s self-released 2004 treasure, and I was blown away.

A Bride’s Guide to Waiting Music, is a collection of poems and stories sung in the most delicate and fragile of voices, set to ukulele strumming, audio loops, found sounds and layered vocals, all packaged into one of the prettiest albums I’ve heard in a long time. With influences from techno to traditional folk to early and contemporary classical, the music presented here is best left to experience, but I will say, be prepared to fall in love.

Below are three tracks from this release and make sure to be on the lookout for The Bride of Dynamite in early 2007.

.: Everyone Is Someone's
.: Tiger Ear
.: Heaven Is High

[website] [myspace]

The Shins - Phantom Limb

2006-11-22T10:25:00.000-05:00

What kind of fan would I be if I didn't at least mention that Sub Pop has released the first new The Shins single for download. It's a new sound, a good sound, and you can decide for yourself below. More to come when the album is released.

.: Phantom Limb

Lindsay Vandemark

2006-11-22T09:48:00.000-05:00

Every time I try to get out, the lovely voices pull me back in. This latest infatuation lies with Lindsay Vandemark (aka Lindsay Clark). I stumbled upon her through a myspace link and haven't got up since. Background info and such is abound, but I'll let you journey through the links below for that. No, what's on my plate is not her past, but my future and my love for Ms. Clark's voice.

She has said that she doesn't really know how to describe her music, she feels it is pushed and pulled through many genres, but the way I see it, her work best belongs in the singer/songwriter category. She coos sweetly over the piano keys that allow her vocals to dance through a light rain. She makes music that makes me feel good, music that makes you want to know her, music that sits nestled here at the P&S.

Below are two tracks from 2004's Crossing the Water to ? and links for info and more recent work. Enjoy.

.: My Heart
.: Red Dirt

[website] [myspace]

Noah Georgeson

2006-11-21T08:00:00.000-05:00

photo by Lauren Dukoff

Guitarist, singer, engineer, producer, Noah Georgeson is releasing his debut lp Find Shelter, on November 28th. Better known as a member of The Pleased, or the producer of Devandra Banhart's Cripple Crow (as well as guitar) and Joanna Newsom's Milk Eyed Mender, who knew he was a troubadour at heart. We'll we do now, and his debut lp is unlike what I excpected to be honest. After hearing The Pleased and his producing work, I guess I just assumed alot and we all know what that makes me.

Find Shelter has a beautiful and rich sound that is all it's own. Part of the family he helped create, but more like the long lost cousin of the group. Georgeson recalls a more Jens Lekman sound with his vocals and exquisite instrumentation. It's lush and dream like. It makes me think of a lustrous convention hall, big wigs awaiting this one man show commissioned for the October 1, 1971 opening of Walt Disney's Magic Kingdom, they pull back the velvet curtains and beautiful strings are orchestrated as Georgeson croons the audience, everyone rejoices. The more you hear it, the more you can't live without it.

Truely a pleasent surprise and a must listen! Below is a track from the release.

.: Walking On Someone Elses Name

[myspace] [purchase]

Sarah White & The Pearls

2006-11-21T07:57:00.000-05:00

White Light is the first full length from Sarah White in over five years and this time shes joined by her new backing band, The Pearls. White Light houses a wonderful collection of folky/country / rootsy songs featuring White's "distinctive bourbon and rolling tobacco soaked vocals." I just love that line and had to throw it in. When you get a label describing it's female vocalist as having bourbon soaked vocals, man you know it's good.

The album was recorded in Esmont, Virginia throughout 2005, and is released through Antenna Farm Records. White Light houses 11 amazing songs that are near perfect in every way. The songwriting is on the mark and is surrounded by excellent intrumentation to keep White in the lines. The real stand out here, especially if you've never heard Sarah White, is the beautiful sound this songbird makes. Her vocals are so addictive and crave your attention.

Below are two tracks that you have to hear and White Light easily climbs the ladder to the top of 2006 releases.

.: We Have A Song
.: Sarah Arizona

[website] [myspace] [purchase]

O' Death

2006-11-15T13:59:00.000-05:00

A deep woods, old timey Appalachian sound mixed with a manic preacher on mescaline and you have a hint at what O' Death sounds like. Surprisingly based out of New York City, O' Death is a six piece band that has what it takes to get the P&S fired up. Cut from the same cloth, although towards the frays, as Old Time Relijun, O' Death conjures up thoughts of ghost yelps and gospel raves, night stomps and broken down farms, from hillside lullabies to spastic orgies, this is a must listen.

photo: Summit Studios

Below are four of the tracks from their release Head Home and a link to purchase. Highly recommended!

.: Down to Rest
.: Busted Old Church
.: Only Daughter
.: Jesus Look Down

[website] [myspace] [purchase]

Mark Dougherty

2006-11-15T12:07:00.000-05:00

I was really excited when a fellow North Carolinian emailed me with music. Normally it’s searching the web, looking all around the US and overseas for music I may like, but it’s nice when someone in your own backyard gets some exposure and even better when they contact me directly.

Mark Dougherty is out of Greensboro, North Carolina and he plays a clever blend of acoustic music. You know that really great soft song on every indie rock album, the one that you wish there was more of, well Dougherty succeeds on creating an album full of them. In the vein of Mark Kozelek and the Red House Painters, the first thing I noticed when listening to Mark's music was his skills as a songwriter. You can tell from the first few lines that he is a poet at heart as he pours his soul for all to hear. The instrumentation on the album is equally impressive as it provides the perfect backdrop for Dougherty's vocals to shine.

While his previous lp, Shadows In The Light, plays more to the acoustic folk side, his most recent release, In Dreams, is a perfect blend of an enriched acoustic sound and the subtle touches of a studio atmosphere. Mark wanted to play off the theme of dreams, what’s experienced when we dream and how they clue us into our inner life. In Dreams is a great listen and below is a track from each of his releases with links to purchase.

.: To Refuse (from In Dreams)
.: Virginia (from Shadows In The Light)

[website] [purchase] [download]

Joanna Newsom Live at the Earl 04

2006-11-14T16:37:00.000-05:00

Joanna Newsom,
Live at the Earl in 2004. Something I've been listening to for some time and posted about last December. I figured with her new album, Ys, just hitting stores, I thought a live show was in order. Great show! Enjoy.

.: Yarn and Glue
.: Bridges and Balloons
.: The Book of Right On
.: Sprout and the Bean
.: Swansea
.: Three Little Babes
.: En Gallop
.: Sadie
.: Clam, Crab, Cockle, Cowrie

Bonus Track:

.: Emily (live)

[download]

Mariee Sioux

2006-11-14T10:48:00.000-05:00

Some people create a sound, that music, that once you hear it you know they were made to sing, made to be a free spirit to capture the fancy of everyone their voice falls upon. Mariee Sioux falls into this category.

She was on the list for this week and then after a blogroll check today, it seems that I’m not the only one giving her her due (here and here). I’ve covered a lot of wonderful ladies the past two weeks and Mariee Sioux sits right up there with the best of them. When I first put a name with the beautiful voice filling my headphones I thought of her "surname", Sioux, in turn, a tribe, then a campfire, a communal celebration to the gods with Mariee Sioux’s voice reaching the sky on the back of smoke clouds. Her voice is captivating, beautiful, and enchanting, and simply put, I’m charmed. The way her songwriting and instrumentation weave their ways like a vine around the oak of her voice amazes me and I think you will really find her music to be what you’ve been looking for.

After checking out her myspace, there was one thing that has not left my mind. There is a picture of her and her father playing music together and she wrote the caption, “oh man i wish my dad was always backin’ me up”. I’ve included the picture here, because there is this real sense of family that this photo has instilled in me and conjures up thoughts once again of the communal fire, or a family sharing, laughing, singing, and embracing life. That’s ultimately what music should do and Mariee Sioux succeeds on all accounts. Below are three tracks for you to enjoy.

.: Buried in Teeth
.: Ghosts In My Heart
.: Bravitzlana Rubakalva

[myspace] [purchase]

Arrowwood

2006-11-14T08:39:00.000-05:00

Arrowwood is Chelsea Robb and contributing members. She lays a gentle whispery voice over a collection of "various instruments such as voice, bouzouki, acoustic guitar (pythagumus of novemthree), mandolin, acoustic 12 string guitar, glockenspiel, distressed zither, bells, wood and metal chimes, singing bowls, tambourine, gypsy finger cymbals, goat's toenails, djembe (mostly played by pythagumus), some keyboard, ocarina & jaw-harp (lindsey hoffman), harmonium (pythagumus & josh lovejoy), shakers & other noisemakers...."

The music on her recent endeavor, Hemlock and Spindle Flower, is a nice blend of simple, beautiful, experimental folk delights. She creates dreamy atmospheres to float about in and calls to the listener, in a soothing child-like whisper, to come visit her forest floors. Very unique in many ways, but has no problem fitting in with the likes of recent posts. Below are three tracks from this 12 track cd with links to purchase.

.: Blackbird
.: The Mourner's Song
.: In Ruin

[myspace] [purchase]

Kathleen Baird

2006-11-13T12:59:00.000-05:00

More straight forward folk ways than her band Spires That In The Sunset Rise, Kathleen Baird creates beautiful music with her Nicoish / medieval tones. Cat crys, the jingle/jangle, the slashing of strings, organ breaths and bells, an array of miscellaneous beats that when played together borderline nights in a old town tavern.

With her second solo release, Lullaby for Strangers, Baird drops her Traveling Bell moniker and entrances us with her deep commanding voice and has us do her bidding. Not as dark or fractured as STITSR, Baird delves into a more traditional sound than her band, evoking thoughts of late 60’s/early 70’s folk music that you know we love here at the P&S. If you are a fan of Spires That In The Sunset Rise, or just the opposite and believe their a bit to far out, then Kathleen Baird is just the potion you need for the cure.

Below are two tracks from her Lullaby for Strangers release out on Secret Eye Records. Enjoy.

.: Breaking the Roofs
.: Morning Song 2

[website] [purchase]

Alela Diane

2006-11-13T11:50:00.000-05:00

I continue this week in my recent obsession and fascination with women of folk. Alela Diane has been on all weekend here, well at least during the free times, and it should be on your list too. Oh! My Mama, one of the tracks from her cd, The Pirate's Gospel, is one of my favorite songs right now and it evokes such a heartbreaking, but beautiful feeling inside.

I don't know if that's the intent, the heartbreak part, but it just sits that way with me. Images of a girl huddled in a sheet like a ghost in the corner of a dusty floor gathering heat from a pot bellied stove. Sparse surroundings, leaning heavily on the warmth of Diane’s voice to thaw her soul. That’s what I feel Diane’s voice is, warmth to the soul. She has an ever-changing pitch that cuts to the bone and provides a comforting sound to cradle into during those times in life when you just need someone.

The two tracks below are from The Pirate's Gospel with links to purchase. Highly recommended!

.: Oh! My Mama
.: The Rifle

[website] [myspace] [purchase]

ISLAJA: Palaa Aurinkoon

2006-11-10T14:00:00.000-05:00

The paradise that Islaja created on Meritie has only magnified on her latest release Palaa Aurinkoon. (Fonal 2005)

"Textures evolve into new ones. Scabby rhythms spin socks on feet, skin burns into ashes in the attacking heat. Senile wine glasses wail of happiness. Fallen off beard hair are woven into a scarf that lets the wind blow fast right through it. If only life would be like this more than just an hour at a time! After everything the sun blesses the way with Islaja's words, it spits out of its system the wet and transformed listener, who longs for the light again.

Islaja's second album was born in two different places that have been sewed up one to another with the binds of words and a rich sound world. Here and there, Islaja's friends have lent their voices for this world. Loose guitar paths, long strokes of wind instruments, glasses and toys that clink, rattle and tinkle, rhythms, keyboards and Islaja's wonderful, many-faceted voice are cooing in a miraculous net. The album is a spontaneous texture of muscle, cartilage and liquid, everything organized in such a surprising way that one can't believe right away that it's a human being, but soon enough it becomes clear that it's a most ingenious creature. It evolves by itself. It tells us how everything metamorphoses, it relies on itself and infuses belief into the listener that one can change the world. The secret place where the creature invites the listener is revealed to be our real world, it lives here with us." -website

Islaja will soon release a live cd "Blaze Mountain Recordings" on Ecstatic Peace and is currently finishing her third album for Fonal Records due for release early 2007. With what we've heard over the past two releases, this third album should be nothing less than spectacular. Below are two tracks from this release and a link to purchase.

.: Rohkaisulaulu
.: Sateen Tullessa

[website] [purchase]

Timber (the new gentleman's shuffle)

2006-11-10T13:59:00.000-05:00

After reviewing David Macleod's Strange Biology, I started looking for more music of his. I then stumbled upon a dream of an album, by Timber (the new gentleman's shuffle). A s/t, 2005 release on Ships at Night records, that brings together the singing and songwriting of David Macleod, with the guitar playing of Warren Spicer and the beautiful bluegrass voice of Katie Moore. Definently worth checking out. Below are two tracks for you to enjoy.

.: Criminal
.: Wayside

[website] [purchase]

charter oak

2006-11-10T13:58:00.000-05:00

I don't remember where I first heard Charter Oak's Your Life That Won't End EP, (now it comes to me, WFMU) but I know I haven't stopped listening to it. Limited to 200 copies, this self released gem should be in your collection before it's gone. Charter Oak is headed up by Brendon Anderegg, better known as co-founder of Apestaartje and part of the electronic group Mountains. Anderegg has ventured into the singer/songwriter category with a solo release in 2005 and now with Charter Oak, and has succeeded on multiple levels with the help of Lucas Jansen, Rob Hatch-Miller, Chris Millstein, and Tianna Kennedy. Below is a track and a link to purchase.

.: Waterfall

[myspace] [purchase]

ISLAJA: MERITIE

2006-11-09T12:37:00.000-05:00

First let me start out by saying this is the first of a two part post covering the past two releases by Finnish musician Islaja.

Islaja is Merja Kokkonen, a musician living and working in Helsinki, Finland. Her music lives in a world of elements, of birds, mountains, the sea, and waves, and she cries out in her native language, some of the most transcendental vocals I’ve heard in a while. Her music creates a cove, a safe haven, in which to watch the storm go by.

Recorded at home with a wide array of instruments, the music of Islaja is stunning to say the least. Her debut album Meritie (Fonal, 2004) has blown me away with it’s heart-rending sounds. The harmony she creates alone is worth the ride, but the instrumentation here is sparse and subtle, but in a way that only enhances the experience.

Below are three amazing tracks from Meritie with links to purchase. She puts her whole being in this work and it shows. Highly recommended!

.: Kämmen, kynsi, kieli
.: Sata naakkaa sitten
.: Aallot ja äänet

[website] [purchase]

John Coltrane & Johnny Hartman

2006-11-09T10:40:00.000-05:00

A sharp turn here with a quick post about one of my favorite records and a landmark album of vocal jazz. This is one of the three ballad albums that Coltrane recorded in 1962/1963 and it features Johnny Hartman and his beautiful baritone voice. Apparently Coltrane's suggestion, Hartman's voice meshes and intertwines with Coltrane's tenor like nothing I've ever heard, to provide some of the most gorgeous love songs ever made. This is a must own and I thought I would mention it here because it's been on the turntable lately. Here is an excerpt on Hartman,

"Hartman was a master of emotional expression, putting everything he had into every word he sang. With any other vocalist, performing a love song with this kind of intensity could easily come across as being over the top or gushing, but Hartman's rich, masculine baritone voice never wavered in its sincerity." - NPR

Below is a track from the album and will be up for a limited time, but I highly recommend you finding this lp on vinyl or cd.

.: ~~They Say It's Wonderful~~

[purchase cd] [purchase vinyl]

Kindermusik: Improvised Music by Babies

2006-11-09T09:38:00.000-05:00

Now normally I don’t post just clips of songs. There’s something about being able to provide you with a track that seems only fair, but below are three clips from the 2005 release Kindermusik: Improvised Music by Babies out on the Amorfon label. The tracks on the cd are live recordings of babies' performances, with no editing involved. This project was recorded with children all under 18 months old between 2003-05. Each baby played different instruments, objects, and toys and its eerie how good some of this sounds. Gone are the restrictions put on music by our conscious minds as adults, and what you hear is pure music as it flows from a child.

I really liked the idea and wanted to share it here with you guys. So below are three sound clips in mp3 format. They are not the full length tracks, but it allows you to get a good idea of where the cd is going. There is also a link for purchase if you are so inclined.

.: Goh Yokota / Toy - Recorded by Yoshio Machida
.: Alyssa Elliott / Electric Piano - Recorded by Yoshio Machida
.: Myona Sonobe / Steel Pan - Recorded by Yoshio Machida

[purchase]

Larkin Grimm

2006-11-08T11:00:00.000-05:00

"Close your eyes and follow me" she asks during the title track, and how could one not with a voice like that. Larkin Grimm just released her new cd, The Last Tree, out on Secret Eye, and she has come a long way since last time I mentioned her. Present still are the old Appalachian sounds of her family commune, but refined and perfected is the way she brings them to our ears.

Her songs are more plush and full, leaving the confines of her bedroom recordings and really exploring space and instrumentation. Like a lot of the recent posts here, Larkin fits into this movement of woman sirens that are flooding my headphones with their “folk” endeavors, but she is not of the tribe of fairies and dew covered fields, no she plans on taking us deep into her woods like the pipers of old. You will be seduced and abducted be her charms only to reckon with the forces of nature she created with this release. Definitely worth the listen and recommended.

Below are three tracks from The Last Tree to explore and links to purchase.

.: The Last Tree
.: Waterfall
.: Little Weeper

[website] [myspace] [purchase]

Isobel Campbell: Milk White Sheets

2006-11-07T12:49:00.000-05:00

Isobel Campbell’s Milk White Sheets is out today and I'm simply blown away. Breathtaking and more beautiful than I imagined, this solo release from former Belle and Sebastian member is one of the most stunning albums of the year.

Revamping half a dozen English and Scottish traditional folk songs, Campbell has found her true calling as a solo artist. Recorded prior to her more country, Ballad of Broken Seas lp with Mark Lanegan, the songs on Milk White Sheets are more tender, seductive, and captivating. Accompanied by the fluttering of lush, bare-boned acoustic instrumentation, Campbell's delicate voice twinkles in the night sky and calls out for everyone to follow.

I've always found Campbell's vocals to be some of the most intimate and on this release we get the best I've ever heard. A must own!

Below is a track from this gorgeous album. Enjoy.

.: Beggar, Wiseman or Thief

[website] [myspace] [purchase] [download]

Spires That In The Sunset Rise

2006-11-07T09:30:00.000-05:00

Spires That in the Sunset Rise is the musical collaboration of Kathleen Baird, Taralie Peterson, Tracy Peterson, and Georgia Vallas. Based out of Chicago, IL, they perform a type of free form avant-folk that is absolutely mind blowing. They have just released their third full length, This Is Fire, and it's really hard to put into words exactly what this primal experiment sounds like. Words like summons, outsider folk, texture, incarnation, and intense all come to mind when addressing this coven.

A wide array of instrumentation (harps, guitars, cello, drums, harmonium, banjo, mbira, spike fiddle, bells, vocals, yelps, and screams) is used to induce the listener into an almost meditative visionary state that I undoubtedly embraced. Somehow they have the grips to harness these raw organic emotions, thoughts, feelings, and sounds to produce songs that keep me wanting more. Harmonic waves of beauty that are simply brilliant. Spries That in the Sunset Rise is worth the ride and come highly recommended.

Below are three tracks from This Is Fire and two from their prior release, Four Winds the Walker.

.: Spike Fiddle Song
.: Clouds
.: Morning Song

.: The May Ham
.: Little For A Lot

[website] [myspace] [purchase]

David Macleod

2006-11-06T13:49:00.000-05:00

An elegantly picked guitar and a troubadour's voice was all David Macleod needed to have me hooked on his 2006 release, Strange Biology. His reverence to the past is evident, used as a loose skeleton to build upon with his own flesh of folk and beauty. Macleod's unique vocal melodies and lyrical wordplay are the true gems of the release and the more I listen to the tracks, the more I feel connected to his work. Below are two tracks from this release and links to acquire.

.: One by One
.: Books About the Past

[website] [myspace] [download] [purchase]

Forest City Lovers

2006-11-06T09:58:00.000-05:00

I recently came across the beautiful sounds offered by Forest City Lovers, or how I was introduced to them, Kat Burns + The Forest City Lovers. I was immediately drawn to Burns' vocals and if you've liked some of the ladies that have been mentioned here in the past few weeks, this band will not disappoint.

Forest City Lovers is the venture of lead vocalist/guitarist Kat Burns and after playing solo for some years, she decided it was time to collect some friends and fill out her sound. This sound however doesn't take anything away, and adds a rather subtle, but complementary element of perfection to her sound. Images of a Burns skating across a dusty wooden floor in a home with broken windows and wheat blowing in the distance come on Scared this Time and thoughts of an old truck traveling down a sun lit back road parallel the beat on Song for Morrie. Currently the band consists of Kat Burns on guitars and vocals, Mika Posen on violin and vocals, Andrew Kinoshita on bass, guitar and vocals, and Jamie Bunton on drums and trumpet.

Below are three tracks from their debut lp, The Sun and the Wind.

.: Song for Morrie
.: Scared This Time
.: Oh Humility

[website] [myspace] [download] [purchase]