Random Thoughts of Nothingness

You Should Be Listening To: The Radio Dept - Freddy and the Trojan Horse

2008-06-03T21:10:00.004-04:00

Because this song is simply fantastic.

Head over to their MySpace page to download more tracks. You can also grab the Annie Laurie EP.

Download: The Radio Dept - Freddie and the Trojan Horse [mp3]
MySpace: The Radio Dept.

The Verve @ Ricoh Coliseum (May 1st, 2008)

2008-05-10T12:59:00.004-04:00

I was temporarily deaf for several days this week. That's because I got to see one of my favourite bands ever play one of the best rock shows I have seen in a long time. The band is The Verve. And the show happened in Toronto at the Ricoh Coliseum. The Verve undoubtedly picked up where they left off. What an amazing return to Toronto after a ten year hiatus.

This was not my first time catching The Verve front man in concert. I was fortunate enough to see Ashcroft play some of his solo material when he opened for Coldplay a couple of years back. He played some Verve songs at that show and don't get me wrong it was great but it was simply amazing to see him play these songs with Nick McCabe, Simon Jones and drummer Pete Salisbury. Fresh from Coachella, the group's energy was high and they seemed genuinely happy to be back together.

The show consisted of a good mix of material from the three studio releases. Most seemed to be taken from Urban Hymns. The The Verve played a lot of their hits like 'Lucky Man,' 'Sonnet,' 'The Drugs Don't Work' and of course, 'Bittersweet Symphony,' a song that was taken back for the night from "...the lawyers and the managers...," as Ashcroft proclaimed. Fans were also treated to two new songs. “Sit and Wonder” and “Love Is Pain.” The latter has a very "dancey" feel to it, very different for The Verve but it was the song that was stuck in my head as I left the venue.

If this show was any indication fans have a lot to look forward to. Hopefully a new album is in the works sooner rather than later. The wait has been long enough.

Coldplay - Violet Hill

2008-04-29T20:24:00.003-04:00

Because I love them....

Thoughts?

Download: Coldplay - Violet Hill [mp3]

MySpace: Coldplay
Coldplay: Official Website

Buy Viva La Vida or Death and All His Friends [UK]

Duffy - Rockferry

2008-04-13T09:21:00.004-04:00

I mentioned Duffy a while back but I thought I should write a bit about her now considering her album has been released in the UK, has gone number 1 and has had given several chart entries since then. If you've never heard of Duffy let me see if I can get you up to date in as little words as possible. She's from Wales. She is, quite obviously, a singer-songwriter. She is often compared to Amy Winehouse, so you can think of her genre as indie soul-pop..

I actually got a hard copy of her album Rockferry this week (though I've been listening to it for a month or so...magically) at a non-import price. I know Rockferry wasn't supposed to drop in the U.S. until May 13th and I assumed that was when we would get in Canada but I guess not. Or maybe it is an import, I don't know. All that matters is that if you want it you can go to your local CD store and grab it.

And you should. You know when you first here a song by a new artist and you just don't know if they will turn out other good tracks (this is not exclusive to Duffy but true of everyone). Well, Duffy does produce other great songs, in fact, Rockferry is full of them. Although the track 'Rockferry' is up there, it might not even be the best song. I think this spot might be reserved for 'Stepping Stone.' If I had to choose the one song that you needed to listen to of this album it would be this one. Loved it upon first listen. 'Warwick Avenue' and ''Mercy' are up there too. There are even some B-sides that, in my opinion, should have been on the album considering it only has 10 songs. This could have easily been a solid 12-track album.

There are really no bad songs here. This is probably why numerous music insiders have chosen her as one of the artists to watch in 2008. 2008 is well on its way and so, it seems, is Duffy.

Download: Duffy - Tomorrow [mp3]
MySpace: Duffy
Duffy: Official Website

Buy Rockferry

R.E.M. - Accelerate

2008-04-06T14:40:00.004-04:00

There can be no doubt that R.E.M. has written some great songs. Actually they've written some of the best. I tend to forget this but all it takes is a listen to some of their back catalogue to make you remember. ‘Shiny Happy People’, ‘Orange Crush’, ‘Fall On Me.’ What a fantastic band! I think I can safely say that R.E.M. was one of the first bands that I called one of my favourites.

The band released their new album, Accelerate, this week in Canada. Many are calling it their best album since 1994’s Monster. This seems to imply that the band have been somewhat lacking with their releases in-between but I'll leave that up to you to decide. Anyways, I just got their new one and I can confirm that it is one of their best. Thank goodness! I would hate to think that we were kept waiting for what, four years, only to be disappointed. But none of that matters because as I said, Accelerate contains a fantastic group of songs and are very much reminiscent of some of their older material. Not really in sound (there’s no 80’s retro here) but it just has that feeling to it; at least it does for me. The single ‘Supernatural Superserious’ is a great example of this.

R.E.M. is still a relevant band and Accelerate proves it.

The band are also one-third of an exciting summer tour that includes The National and Modest Mouse. They play the Molson Amphitheatre in Toronto on June 8th and play twelve other dates including the tour opener in Vancouver. Tickets have already gone on sale. You can find a full list of dates on their MySpace page.

MySapce: R.E.M.
R.E.M.: Offical Website

Buy Accelerate

Album of the Month: FOALS - ANTIDOTES

2008-04-02T20:44:00.003-04:00

I've been waiting to write about this band for some time now but I thought I would wait until around the album release date for reasons that are evading me at the moment. The downside of this is that most of you have probably already heard of Foals, sampled their music and decided whether you like 'em or not. If you are one of the select few who have not done so and maybe have never come across them (where have you been?), consider this another chance of many that are, have been and probably will be available to you.

So what's the deal? The band is a five-piece from Oxford, England. The music is danceable with heavy emphasis on the rhythm section but the guitars are there too. Their genre is often labeled as 'math-rock,' a reference to the complex rhythm structures and vocal styling’s. While the history of Foals is by no means long, it has been an eventful few months. Last year saw the band release several singles including 'Hummer,' 'Mathletics' and 'Balloons,' a song that got them some attention.

Foals were eventually signed to Sub Pop in North America and will release their debut album Antidotes through them and on Transgressive Records in the U.K., where it has already been released. We get it on this side of the pond on April 8th. All of the songs here are pretty great and I can't think of a sleeper amongst them. Antidotes starts off with a bang, opening with the energy-filled ‘French Open.’ ‘Cassius’ was a great choice for a first single. Not only is it a great song but it also gives you a feel of exactly what Foals are about; but don’t ask me to summarize, it seems like an impossible task at the moment.

Anyways, the band will be touring for what seems like the rest of their lives. Check out their MySpace page for a list of dates. The band has also made two live recordings (‘Hummer ’and ‘Two Steps’) available for free download at their official website. Both were recorded from their show at Astoria in London.

Tracklisting
1. The French Open
2. Cassius
3. Red Socks Pugie
4. Olympics Airways
5. The Race For Radio Supremacy
6. Balloons
7. Heavy Water
8. Two Steps, Twice
9. Big Big Love (Fig.2)
10. Like Swimming
11. Tron

Download: Foals - French Open [mp3]
MySpace: Foals
Foals: Official Website

Buy Antidotes

Adele @ The Rivoli, Toronto (26-03-08)

2008-03-27T21:42:00.005-04:00

Adele made her first trip to Toronto last night and I was lucky enough to be in the audience to see her play a sold-out show at The Rivoli. For anyone who doesn't know, The Rivoli is a very small, historical venue in the city. A lot of musicians play their first gig in Toronto here and then move on the bigger and greater things. After last night's show I have no doubt that Adele certainly will as well.

You can probably guess that the size of location made for a very intimate affair. Besides that, the entire set was "stripped down" as Adele put it. This, Adele noted, is how she likes to introduce her music to a new city because it's the way she writes songs and plays them to her mum for the first time. Adele sat on a stool in the middle of the stage and began the set with just an acoustic guitar, playing the first track, 'Daydreamer' off her debut album. Shortly after she was joined on stage by her guitarist and pianist. They made there way through several songs on the album including 'Crazy For You', 'First Love', ''My Same', 'Melt My Heart To Stone', 'Chasing Pavements' and the Bob Dylan cover 'Make You Feel My Love'. Adele closed her first appearance in Toronto with the song that first introduced me to her music, 'Hometown Glory.'

The acoustic set was a great idea and it went over very nicely. While she admitted to being nervous and apologized for her raspy voice (she was suffering from a hangover after a gig in Montreal the night before) Adele hardly seemed as if she was not in top form. Anything that she considered imperfect about her performance last night were in fact, endearing. The only complaint that I have, which most at the show will probably agree with, is that the set was too short. It ran well under an hour, maybe between 40-45 minutes and managed to play around 10 songs.

Good news for anyone who missed out on last night's show. Adele mentioned that she will be back in Toronto and (more likely than not) North America in June with a "proper band." Sadly for us (but great for), she will probably be playing a bigger venue next time around. After last night's show I will definitely be going to see her again and so should you. If you haven't picked up her album 19 yet, do so. It's a keeper and the buzz that has been floating around Adele for a while now is deserving. Why? Because she has the talent to back it up.

MySpace: Adele

Buy 19

You Should Be Listening To: FANFARLO - FIRE ESCAPE

2008-03-25T22:15:00.004-04:00

I don't know much about Fanfarlo but I do know that I like what I hear and that's reason enough, right? But here's what I do know: the band are from London, they just played a couple of successful shows at SXSW and they have released several singles, each on different labels it appears. Most of the songs are floating around on the interweb (you can listen to them on the band's official website) but it's the catchy 'Fire Escape' that really sticks out among the bunch. It even ends with some good ol' whistlin'. Give it a listen.

Download: Fanfarlo - Fire Escape [mp3]
MySpace: Fanfarlo
Fanfarlo: Official Website

Buy Fire Escape [UK]

New Death Cab Track

2008-03-21T11:22:00.004-04:00

Ok, here it is. New Death Cab For Cutie. I have been very excited about this new album for a while now (called Narrow Stairs if you haven't heard) and the first single "I Will Possess Your Heart" has reminded me why. It's a long one too. It runs til' 8:36. Not sure if this is just an album version as it's length isn't very radio-friendly (not that I give a shit). The reason for this is the nice unexpected 4 minute-ish instrumental at the beginning of the track. It builds nicely to the vocal portion of the song, where Ben Gibbard kicks in and gives us a great quintessential Death Cab melody. I'm really liking the instrumentation on this song, The subtle, yet resounding, bass line is a perfect complement to the piano/guitar mix that Death Cab has perfected, at least they have in my book.

Bottom line: it's a Death Cab song, therefore, it's good. Really, you can't go wrong. Can't wait to hear the rest of the album.

Download: Death Cab For Cutie I Will Possess Your Heart [mp3]

MySpace: Death Cab For Cutie

Death Cab For Cutie: Official Website

Pre-Order Narrow Stairs (Delux Edition) [U.S. ITunes]

Basia Bulat - Oh, My Darling

2008-03-15T10:54:00.005-04:00

I seem to really be into female singer-songwriters at the moment. Adele, Duffy, Feist, Laura Marling, the amount of female talent seems endless at the moment and I can now add Basia Bulat to that list. She is fantastic singer-songwriter from London, Ontario, Canada who is garnering some much deserved attention at the moment. She played this year's SXSW and NPR has labelled her as one of a few to watch at the festival. In 2005, Bulat released a self-titled EP. Her debut album, Oh, My Darling, was released in 2007 in Canada and the UK. It was released on February 5th of this year in the United States. The song, 'In the Night' is great, although it does not appear on her debut. I'm actually not sure where this recording can be found but hopefully it appears or will appear somewhere.

Basia Bulat is playing a whole bunch of shows in Canada and the U.S. this Spring. Check out her MySpace for a list of dates. Also be sure to listen to her session at Daytrotter. You can find a link to it on her official website.

Download: Basia Bulat - In the Night [mp3]

MySpace: Basia Bulat

Basia Bulat: Official Website

Buy Oh, My Darling

The Last Shadow Puppets

2008-03-10T20:29:00.004-04:00

The Last Shadow Puppets are Alex Turner of Arctic Monkeys and Miles Kane of The Rascals. Need I say more? I didn't think so but I will nonetheless. I was a little surprised when I heard that Turner would be releasing solo work. Not sure why but it didn't matter because it was soon announced that it was actually a side project with Kane. The two met when The Little Flames (Kane's former band) opened for Arctic Monkeys in 2007.

The first track off the album is 'The Age of the Understatement.' This title also serves as the name of the album, to be released on April 21st, 2008 on Domino. Like most people, I've only really heard this track and whatever Youtube live footage I could find but what I can tell you with certainty is that this song is fantastic. Musically, it is nothing like Arctic Monkeys. There's strings for one thing and it's all very epic. If anything, the song will make you want to hear more from The Last Shadow Puppets.

So is the video by the way, which you can find at the band's website (and is actually all you can find right now). I don't know what it is about this video but I love it. You can't go wrong with the cold Russian winter and nice jackets. You just can't. Anyways, the boys played their first show in NYC last week. There should be more dates to come. Stay tuned.

Download: The Last Shadow Puppets - The Age of the Understatement [mp3]

The Last Shadow Puppets: Offical Website

Buy The Age of the Understatement [Single] (UK)

You Should Be Listening To: SONS AND DAUGHTERS - CHAINS

2008-02-18T20:41:00.004-05:00

Great song from Glasgow's Sons and Daughters. It's called 'Chains ' and it's off of the band's latest CD This Gift. The song pretty much sums up how awesome this album is. It's just good pop but with an edge. It is really worth picking up. The first two singles 'Gift Complex' and 'Darling' are just as good.

The band are supporting Editors for five dates in the UK before they head to North America for a tour which concludes with a spot at Coachella. Check their MySpace page for a list of dates and also a free dowload of an acoustic version of 'Gift Complex.'

Download: Sons and Daughters - Chains [mp3]

MySpace: Sons and Daughters

Sons and Daughters: Official Website

Buy This Gift

CD Releases: Week of 12/02/08

2008-02-12T21:41:00.004-05:00

One of the best singer-songwriters Dallas Green, a.k.a. City and Colour releases his follow-up to his debut album this week. The new one is called Bring Me Your Love and features Gord Downie of The Tragically Hip on the track 'Sleeping Sickness.' It is a fantastic tune. My favourite though, has to be 'The Girl.' The album is solid but I expect no less from City and Colour.

Other releases worth you attention include British Sea Power with Do You Like Rock Music and the 25th anniversary edition of Michael Jackson's Thriller.

Notable CD Releases

British Sea Power - "Do You Like Rock Music"
The Cardigans - "Best of"
Ray Charles - "The Way I Feel"
City and Colour - "Bring Me Your Love"
Marilyn Horne - "Souvenir of a Golden Era"
The Isley Brothers - "The Definitive Collection"
Michael Jackson - "Thriller (25th Anniversary Edition)"
Mike Jones - "Running 4 President 2K8"
Morrissey - "Greatest Hits"

Download: City and Colour - The Girl [mp3]

MySpace: City and Colour

City and Colour: Official Website

Buy Bring Me Your Love

Bon Iver - For Emma, Forever Ago

2008-02-09T17:43:00.000-05:00

Justin Vernon a.k.a Bon Iver is set to release his solo album on February 19th. Once a member of the band DeYarmond Edison, Vernon took part in other musical ventures before setting out to write his solo material. The music on his debut, For Emma, Forever Ago, were written and recorded during 3-4 cold winter months in a cabin in Wisconsin. The songs reflect such an atmosphere and are a great listen on those cold snowy days. The album, of course, is a re-release as it was self-released by Vernon last fall. The music is folk mixed with horns and subtle drumbeats. Nothing is overdone or over produced. The beauty of it is it's simplicity.

Bon Iver hits the road with Vancouver's Black Mountain beginning on February 19th. Check his MySpace page for dates.

Download: Bon Iver - For Emma [mp3]
MySpace: Bon Iver
Bon Iver: Official Website [Jagjaguwar]

Buy For Emma, Forever Ago

CD Releases: Week of 05/02/08

2008-02-05T20:22:00.000-05:00

There are some really good releases this week including the much anticipated debut album from Adele entitled 19. Other releases worth checking out include a solo effort from Broken Social Scene's Jason Collet, Hot Chip's Made In The Dark and Nada Surf's Lucky.

Notable CD Releases

Adele - "19"
Beck - "Odelay" (Deluxe Edition)
Johnny Cash - "Collections"
Jason Collett - "Here's to Being Here"
Ben Folds - "Rockin' the Suburbs"
Hello Operator - "Break" (EP)
Hot Chip - "Made in the Dark"
Jack Johnson - "Sleep Through the Static"
Janis Joplin - "Collections"
Nada Surf - "Lucky"
Willie Nelson - "Collections"
Roy Orbison - "Collections"

You Should Be Listening To: THE HELIO SEQUENCE - KEEP YOUR EYES AHEAD

2008-02-01T18:59:00.000-05:00

The Helio Seqeuence are a great little indie band. They come from Portland, Oregon and just released their new album entitled Keep Your Eyes Ahead. The single, of the same name, is a wonderful track with a mild electronica-80's retro feel to it. I love the 80's, twas a great time. And the music, chalk full of one hit wonders, only makes the decade even better!

The Helio Sequence are essentially a duo, Brandon Summers and former Modest Mouse drummer Benjamin Weikel. They have been together for a while, since the late 90's and released their last album, Love and Distance, way back in 2004. So fans have waited a long time for this release and although it may be a little more slower paced than some of their older stuff, the songs are still pretty damn good.

Download: The Helio Sequence - Keep Your Eyes Ahead [mp3]
MySpace: The Helio Sequence
The Helio Sequence: Official Website

Buy Keep Your Eyes Ahead

CD Releases: Week of 29/01/08

2008-01-29T20:46:00.000-05:00

Make sure to visit your local record shop this week as there are some really good releases. Among them are Vampire Weekend and The Mars Volta. If anything, pick these two up.

Notable CD Releases
ABBA - "The Best of Abba"
Sarah Brightman - "Symphony"
Johnny Cash - "The Best of Johnny Cash"
Eels - "Useless Trinkets 1996-2006"
Louis XIV - "Slick Dog and Ponies"
Shelby Lynne - "Just a Little Lovin' "
Lynyrd Skynyrd - "The Best of Lynyrd Skynyrd"
The Mamas and Papas - "The Best of Mamas and The Papas"
The Mars Volta - "The Bedlam in Goliath"
Willie Nelson - "Moment of Forever"
Protest the Hero - "Fortress"
Vampire Weekend - "Vampire Weekend"
Hawksley Workman - "Between the Beautifuls"

Album of the Month - Vampire Weekend

2008-01-26T23:28:00.000-05:00

The self-titled album from Vampire Weekend is released this week on January 29th. The New York based band signed to XL Recording for their debut, one of the most anticipated album's of the first half of the year (at least for me it is). The song 'Cape Cod Kwassa Kwassa' made Rolling Stones' Top 100 Songs of 2007, coming in at #67. The band even got an opening slot with The Shins this past year. Not bad considering their album has not been released yet and the track was released only as a digital EP.

Vampire Weekend, who met while studying at Columbia University, formed in 2006. The band describe their music as "Upper Westside Soweto," a reference to their Afro-pop sound. The first single is called 'Mansard Roof' and it was released on October 28th, 2007. The next one is 'A-Punk' and for some reason I absolutely love their video for it. If you get a chance check it out. However, my favourite song has to be 'Bryn.' It's short but sweet and the slick guitars will stick in your head. Other songs include 'Oxford Comma,' 'Campus' and 'M79,' all very good songs. Here is a full tracklisting:

Tracklisting
1. Mansard Roof
2. Oxford Comma
3. A-Punk
4. Cape Cod Kwassa Kwassa
5. M79
6. Campus
7. Bryn
8. One (Blake's Got a New Face)
9. I Stand Corrected
10. Walcott
11. Kids Don't Stand a Chance

Vampire Weekend are currently touring North America and play the Horseshoe Tavern in Toronto on February 11th. Check their MySpace page for a full listing.

FYI: At the moment you can stream Vampire Weekend's new album in its entirety on MuchMusic.com. Sample it, you'll probably love it.

Download: Vampire Weekend - Bryn [mp3]

MySpace: Vampire Weekend

Vampire Weekend: Official Website

Buy Vampire Weekend

You Should Be Listening To: ROGUE WAVE - LAKE MICHIGAN

2008-01-20T09:43:00.000-05:00

Rogue Wave released their third studio album this past September. It's called Asleep At Heaven's Gate and features the catchy first single 'Lake Michigan.' This release, like many others, seemed to pass me by last year. Still, better late than never I guess. Anyways, 'Lake Michigan' was a great choice for the first single. It has a great melody and the drumming is powerful and complements the heavy acoustic strumming. The album was produced by lead singer Zach Rogue and Roger Moutenot, who has work with Yo La Tengo in the past.

The band are currently in the middle of a U.S. tour before they head over to Europe in February to play some shows. Check their MySpace page for upcoming dates.

Download: Rogue Wave - Lake Michigan [mp3]

MySpace: Rogue Wave

Official Website: Rogue Wave

Buy Asleep At Heaven's Gate

CD Releases: Week of 15/01/08

2008-01-15T20:18:00.000-05:00

The Magnetic Fields release their new album Distortion today on Nonesuch Records. Pretty good album and worth picking up in my opinion. The band will embark on a mini tour of the U.S. in February playing several cities on multiple nights. Check out their MySpace page for a list of dates.

Download: The Magnetic Fields - California Girls [mp3]

MySpace:The Magnetic Fields

Official Website: The Magnetic Fields

Buy Distortion

Notable CD Releases

Econoline Crush - "Ignite"
Hayden - "In Field and Town"
The Magnetic Fields - Distortion

Nana Mouskouri - "The Ultimate Collection"
Frank Sinatra - "Beautiful Ballads and Love Songs"
Ringo Starr - "Liverpool 8"
Rhonda Vincent - "Good Thing Going"
Matthew West - "Something to Say"
Wisely - "Wisley"
Pete York - "Pete York and Friends"

You Should Be Listening To: JENS LEKMAN - THE OPPOSITE OF HALLELUJAH

2008-01-13T10:13:00.000-05:00

Night Falls Over Kortedala, the second release from Sweden's Jens Lekman, was released this past fall on October 9th, 2007. It's described as a collection of songs/recordings from 2004-2007. I'm guessing that means the album contains some old and new tunes written within that span of time but it doesn't really matter. The album has gotten all around great reviews and for good reason, the music is fantastic.

'The Opposite of Hallelujah' is one of the singles off of the release. It's a great song. You can never go wrong with a little bit of Swedish indie pop. Simply catchy. If you head over to his label site Simply Canadian, you can also download the first single 'Friday Night At The Drive-In Bingo.'

Download: Jens Lekman - The Opposite of Hallelujah [mp3]

Jens Lekman: Official Website

Simply Canadian: Jens Lekman

Buy Night Falls Over Kortedala

CD Releases: Week of 08/01/08

2008-01-08T20:44:00.000-05:00

No big releases this week. Actually scratch that, Sia's pretty good. Buy that album this week

Bangles - "All Over the Place"
Bangles - "Different Light"
Bangles - "Everything"
Glen Campbell - "Classic Campbell"
Johnny Cash - "The Best of the Johnny Cash Show"
Bobby Darin - "Swing N Slow"
Andrew Heller - "Broadway Love"
Elvis Presley - "Viva Las Vegas Soundtrack"
Sia - "Some People Have Real Problems"

Download: Sia - Electric Bird [mp3]

MySpace: Sia

Sia: Official Website

Buy Some People Have Real Problems

New Song From City and Colour

2008-01-03T19:06:00.000-05:00

City and Colour aka Dallas Green from Alexisonfire has posted a new song for previewing on his MySpace page. It can also be purchased on iTunes Canada. The song is called 'Waiting...' and it's the first single off City and Colour's upcoming album entitled Bring Me Your Love. It is set to be released on February 12, 2008 on Vagrant and Dine Alone Records.

City and Colour is the acoustic side project of Green. It is very different than Alexisonfire, a wonderful Canadian band but there are some similarities. While the music is a lot more mellow and subdued, Green's melodies and vocals are still strong, if not better. He has one of the strongest voices in music and seems to be one of Canada's best kept secrets. His first release, Sometimes, was one of the best albums of 2005. 'Casey's Song,' 'Comin' Home' and 'Sam Malone' are fantastic tracks. If you haven't purchased this album yet, the time is now. It's simply beautiful and I expect the same will be said of Bring Me Your Love.

MySpace: City and Colour

City and Colour: Official Website

Buy Sometimes

Best of 2007: Top Albums - 20 to 11

2007-12-19T19:03:00.000-05:00

So here it is, my top albums of 2007. I know you've all been waiting on the edge of your seat for this (<--please read with sarcasm). In all seriousness, 2007 has been a pretty great year in music, at least it was for me. Several of my favourite bands put out albums and I discovered a lot of great new music.

FYI; the reasons why some albums appear ahead of others are unclear. The differentiation between say, #15 and #14, are non-existent but hey, everyone enjoys a list. The only album I do not doubt it's placement is my #1 choice. But I am sure of what should be in my top 10. So without further delay.....20 to 11

20. Rilo Kiley - Under The Blacklight

After embarking on a solo effort, Jenny Lewis and Co. got together and put out a bold and risky album in the form of Under The Blacklight. Why do I consider it to be a little more adventurous for Rilo Kiley? Mainly because of the range in diversity of the songs. There's the Latin infused 'Dejalo,' the dreamy pop sounding 'Dreamworld,' the alt-country track 'Silver Lining,' and the list goes on. However, it's the variety of songs that makes this album so good. Sure the narrative storytelling that Rilo Kiley became known for is pretty much non-existent on this album but the edgy lyrics are no less interesting. The songs are upbeat and addictive. And let's face it, Jenny Lewis is quite the frontwoman.

Download: Rilo Kiley - Under the Blacklight [mp3]

Buy Under the Blacklight

19. The Cinematics - A Strange Education

It seems as if The Cinematics tend to be forgotten in the midst of the success of other Scottish bands such as Snow Patrol, Travis and Franz Ferdinand. This is unfortunate because the band put out a stellar release of neo-new wave tracks in the form of their debut release A Strange Education. The music is spine tingling. It just has a feeling to it that says it must be played very loudly. The album is fast paced and consistently good throughout its duration. I dare anyone to not tap their feet or sing along to songs like 'Chase,' 'Keep Forgetting' or 'Break' This is not an album that you should let pass you by. It's worth a look or two.

Download: The Cinematics - Chase [mp3]

Buy A Strange Education

18. Wintersleep - Welcome to the Night Sky

Canadian music was in top form again this year. For me, Halifax, Nova Scotia's Wintersleep embodies the best new Canadian group of 2007. I know, they're not exactly a new act and Welcome To The Night Sky is their third album but I only discovered them this year, so they're new to me.

What can I tell you about this album? It's just CanCon at it's finest(that's Canadian content for those who don't know). The songs build on Welcome To The Night Sky and vocally lead-singer Paul Murphy is melodic and expressive, all while singing about astronauts and whales. And really, is there any more pleasing sing-along lyrics than those of 'Weighty Ghost,' a song complete with handclaps, organs and some sort of gang of back-up singers. Next year should be a big one for Wintersleep. Expect more touring, some Juno nominations and a lot more radio airplay.

Download: Wintersleep - Search Party [mp3]
Buy Welcome to the Night Sky

17. Radiohead - In Rainbows

Besides the new Britney Spears album (have you picked up your copy yet?), was there any album release that grabbed the headlines more than Radiohead's In Rainbows? The band was both lauded and criticized for offering their latest release this fall for practically nothing. What remained to be seen was whether the album delivered. Was it any good?

Well it was and in my opinion, it is Radiohead's best and most accessible album since OK Computer. From the opener '15 Step' to the closing track 'Videotape,' the songs just speak for themselves. They are simple, straightforward and very stripped down in comparison to Radiohead's recent releases. Sure the odd electronic keyboard sounds and layering are still there but while in the past these elements have taken away from the prominence of the guitars and piano, it actually enhances it and contributes to the enjoyment of the listening experience. Now that the dust has settled surrounding the release of this album, what lingers is the music, and it's good.

16. Band of Horses - Cease To Begin

I was excited with anticipation for the release of Band of Horses' second studio album, Cease To Begin. I mean who wouldn't be after Everything All the Time. Like everything else, when you set your sights high you tend to be let down. This was not the case with Band of Horses' new release. It is indie gold! The guitars are agile, the lyrics are genuine and the music is beautiful. There is nothing more to say.

Buy Cease To Begin

15. Klaxons - Myths of the Near Future

Love 'em or hate 'em, no one can accuse Klaxons of being generic and Myths of the Near Future is one of those albums that should appeal to the masses. There seems to be a bit of everything here, a little something for everyone if you will. Thrashy guitars, danceable beats, heavy baselines and some great harmonizing pretty much sums up this release. Not precisely what you would expect from a self-proclaimed 'new rave' band. It's just an album that is full of high energy, one that refuses to let you down until the last note is played.

Download: Klaxons - Two Receivers [mp3]

Buy Myths of the Near Future

14. Arctic Monkeys - Favourite Worst Nightmare

Short but sweet is the best way to summarize the second helping from Arctic Monkeys. Let's face it, Favourite Worst Nightmare isn't exactly a giant leap for Alex Turner and the boys but everything they did flawlessly on their debut album they did exceptionally well here. Considering the fact that Whatever People Say I Am, That's What I'm Not was the fastest selling debut album in the UK, had two #1 singles, won the band the coveted Mercury Prize, garnered critical acclaim and made the lads from Sheffield a household name, why would they change a thing? Let's leave that for the third release because the tunes are still fast and catchy, the words are still tongue-in-cheek and the guitars/bass/drums have never been louder. Favourite Worst Nightmare did not disappoint.

Download: Arctic Monkeys - Old Yellow Bricks [mp3]

Buy Favourite Worst Nightmare

13. Beirut - The Flying Club Cup

No album has taken it's time to grow on me and find it's place on this list more than Beirut's The Flying Club Cup. Now when I look back, I can't imagine why I didn't instantly fall in love with it. The Flying Club Cup is as romantic and endearing as indie folk pop can ever be. It is stunning. The instrumentation, complete and utter perfection. Zach Condon, a genius.

Download: Beirut - Nantes [mp3]
Buy The Flying Club Cup

12. Idlewild - Make Another World

For anyone who has written Idlewild off, think again. The Scottish band put out an amazing collection of songs earlier this year, one worthy of praise. Tracks like 'No Emotion,' 'In Competition For The Worst Time' and ''A Ghost In The Arcade' are great rock songs, while 'Once In Your Life' is a track that will surely warm your heart. Make Another World is an album that should be listened to from beginning to end. There are no fillers here, which the band have often been accused of. Idlewild are truly in their element with this album. It is quality songwriting with every note being heard and having it's rightful place in each song. If you've lost interest in Idlewild over the years now is the time to get reacquainted with them. They will not disappoint.

Download: Idlewild - Once In Your Life [mp3]

Buy Make Another World

11. The Shins - Wincing the Night Away

The Shins' Wincing The Night Away came out way back at the beginning of the year. It seems so long ago, so much so that I nearly forgot to put it on this list and that would have been a tragedy. The album integrates everything that is good and holy in indie pop; great melodies, jangly guitars and stick-in-your-head lyrics. Rick Mercer has certified himself as a quality songwriter with this release because anyone who can incorporate the lyrics "...Faced with a dodo's conundrum" into a pop song is brilliant in my books. Sure it's a little experimental at times but The Shins pull it off well. It is a lovely collection of music.

Download: The Shins - Phantom Limb [mp3]

Buy Wincing The Night Away

You Should Be Listening To: BEACH HOUSE - GILA

2007-12-19T14:20:00.000-05:00

Baltimore's Beach House are releasing the follow-up to their debut album, entitled Devotion, early next year. The band's sound seems to be unanimously described as 'dream pop' and the first single seems to fall nicely into this category. It's called 'Gila' and it features the haunting organ and vocals of band member Victoria Legrand and the smooth entrancing guitars of Alex Scally. If this song is any indication, Devotion will definitely be worth checking out in the new year. The album is out on February 26, 2008.

Download: Beach House - Gila [mp3]

MySpace: Beach House

Beach House: Official Website

Buy Beach House (debut album)

CD Releases: Week Of 18/12/07

2007-12-18T17:35:00.000-05:00

This Week's Notable Music Releases
James Brown - "Volume Four: The Singles - 1967-68"
Rivers Cuomo - "Alone: The Home Recordings of Rivers Cuomo"
Lupe Fiasco - "Cool"
John Lennon - Limited Edition Collection
Van Morrison - "The Early Years"
Willie Nelson - "14 No. 1 Hits"
Luciano Pavarotti - "In Memoriam"
Sevendust - "Retrospective"
U2 - "The Joshua Tree" (Deluxe Edition)

The (Mandatory) Christmas Post

2007-12-17T10:02:00.000-05:00

With Christmas comes the usual hustle and bustle to finish your holiday shopping, visit the relatives, sing some carols and I dunno, bake some cookies. But for me Christmas also means that whatever I consider to be my musical 'tastes' are tossed out the window in favour for complete and utter fromage (that's cheese for those who don't speak French). Don't get me wrong, there are some great renditions of every one's holiday favourites. We have Death Cab For Cutie with 'Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)', Coldplay with 'Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas', Sufjan Stevens with 'What Child Is This Anyway?' and the list goes on and on and on. Plus, you can't go wrong with The Pipettes' 'White Christmas' or Canadian singer-songwriter Ron Sexsmith's 'Maybe This Christmas,' one of the best in my opinion.

However, things get a bit shady from here because for me there is no better Christmas album than Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton's Once Upon A Christmas. It's a crowning achievement in my opinion. Songs like 'A Christmas To Remember,' or 'Christmas Without You' or 'I Believe In Santa Clause' are just too good to be true. I am in no way a country music fan but this shit is great! In all honesty though, the last track 'Once Upon A Christmas,' is pretty great and one of my all time faves.

But it doesn't end there because Mariah Carey's Merry Christmas is another one of my guilty pleasures. Look, I can admit without a second thought when someone has talent. Mariah Carey is one of them, I mean girl is rumored to have a seven to eight octave vocal range. That's insane but I'm just not a fan. I just can't bring myself to listen to 'Heartbreaker' or 'Dreamlover.' However, none of that matters at this time of the year because her Christmas album is classic and probably makes her a shitload of money every year during the holidays. Just go to iTunes under the holiday section and you'll know what I mean. It's all good though and up until December 26th I will not be ashamed to admit that 'All I Want For Christmas Is You' will be blaring from my stereo and that I will be singing along to every word, note and gospel interlude.

Of course we can't forget Wham's 'Last Christmas.' This song is so bad, it's good. Wait, I'm listening to it again.......no I was wrong, it's just bad!

So here it is, my Christmas playlist...in all it's shining glory....complete with the hits and guilty pleasures of the season.

Download: Mariah Carey - All I Want For Christmas Is You [mp3]

Download: Mariah Carey - O Holy Night [mp3]

Download: Wham - Last Christmas [mp3]

Download: Ron Sexsmith - Maybe This Christmas [mp3]

Download: The Smashing Pumpkins - Christmastime [mp3]

Download: Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton - I Believe In Santa Clause [mp3]

Download: Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton - Once Upon A Christmas [mp3]

Download: Coldplay - Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas [mp3]

Download: How The Grinch Stole Christmas - You're A Mean One Mr. Grinch [mp3]

Download: Bryan Adams - Christmas Time [mp3]

Download: Death Cab For Cutie - Christmas (Baby, Please Come Home) [mp3]

Download: Sufjan Stevens - What Child Is This Anyway? [mp3]

Download: The Pipettes - White Christmas [mp3]

Buy Mariah Carey - Merry Christmas

Buy Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton - Once Upon A Christmas

Buy Sufjan Stevens - Song For Christmas

Buy How The Grinch Stole Christmas [Soundtrack]

The Enemy - We'll Live and Die In These Towns

2007-12-12T11:52:00.000-05:00

It's been quite the year for The Enemy. They played several summer festivals including T In The Park and two shows at Glastonbury, their debut album, We'll Live and Die In These Towns debuted at #1 in the UK and they played shows alongside such bands as The Fratellis, Kasabian and Manic Street Preachers. To round everything out, the band opened for The Rolling Stones at the O2 Arena in London. Not bad.

The Enemy play a brand of indie punk rock that is hardly innovative. But they do it well and the songs are quite good. Well that sounds like an understatement because tracks like 'Had Enough' and 'You're Not Alone' will get your energy flowing and have you singing the choruses on the top of you lungs, if you so please. The current single, 'We'll Live and Die In These Towns' was released on December 3rd and it is one of the best songs on the album. If anything, you should sample the band just for this song.

The Enemy are beginning 2008 right, playing a string of European dates before heading back to the UK for some more shows. Expect them at the Isle of Wright festival in June 2008 as well.

Download: The Enemy - We'll Live and Die In These Towns [mp3]

MySpace: The Enemy

The Enemy: Official Website

Buy We'll Live and Die In These Towns

CD Releases: Week of 11/12/07

2007-12-11T12:33:00.000-05:00

This Weeks Notable CD Releases
Nicole Atkins - "Neptune City"
Black Rebel Motorcycle Club - "American X: Baby 81 Sessions"
Deep Purple - "Made in Europe"
Grand National - "A Drink and a Quick Decision"
Linkin Park - "Minutes to Midnight" (Tour Edition)
Dave Matthews Band - "Live at Piedmont Park"
Octopus Project - "Hello Avalanche"
Original Movie Soundtrack - "The Golden Compass"
Luciano Pavarotti - "The Pavarotti Story"
Pink Floyd - "Oh By the Way" (Studio Box Set)
Radiohead - Deluxe Box Set

New Track From Adele

2007-12-10T13:01:00.000-05:00

New track from Adele to share today. It's called 'Chasing Pavements' and it's the follow-up single to 'Hometown Glory' which was released this past October. The new single is quite different than 'Hometown Glory.' It is a lot more upbeat but still an excellent display of songwriting from the very talented Adele.

There is also new information about Adele's debut album. It has been titled 19 and is scheduled to be released on January 28, 2008 on XL Recordings. The tracklisting will run as such:

1. Daydreamer

2. Best For Last

3. Chasing Pavements

4. Cold Shoulder

5. Crazy For You

6. Melt My Heart To Stone

7. First Love

8. Right As Rain

9. Make You Feel My Love

10. My Same

11. Tired

12. Hometown Glory

(Tracks 1, 2, 6, 12 can be sampled on Adele's MySpace page)

This should be followed by some tour dates. The year 2008 is looking to be a bright one for Adele.

MySpace: Adele

Adele: Official Website (XL Recording)

Buy Chasing Pavements

Pre-Order 19 (UK)

Editors Plan North American Trek

2007-12-07T17:20:00.000-05:00

Editors have revealed the dates for their upcoming North American tour. It starts on January 8th in Fort Lauderdale, Florida and ends in the city of lights, Las Vegas, on February 14th. The band hits Toronto on January 22 at the Koolhaus and Montreal on the 20th of January. The tour is in support of their latest album An End Has A Start which was released this summer. It is by far one of the best albums this year and deserving of some of your time. So check it out if you haven't already.

The band will be supported by Victoria, BC, Canada's Hot Hot Heat and Louis the XIV.

Editors North American Tour Dates

08/01/08 - Fort Lauderdale, FL @ Culture Room

09/01/08 - Saint Petersburg, FL @ Jannus Landing

10/01/08 - Lake Buena Vista, FL @ House of Blues

11/01/08 - Atlanta, GA @ Roxy

12/01/08 - Nashville, TN @ Wildhorse

14/01/08 - Norfolk, VA @ The Norva

15/01/08 - Washington, DC @ 9:30 Club

17/01/08 - New York, NY @ Terminal 5

18/01/08 - Philadelphia, PA @ Electric Factory

19/01/08 - Boston, MA @ Orpheum Theatre
20/01/08 - Montreal, QC @ Club Soda

22/01/08 - Toronto, ON @ Koolhaus

23/01/08 - Columbus, OH @ Newport Music Hall

25/01/08 - Chicago, IL @ Vic Theatre

26/01/08 - Detroit, MI @ Majestic Theatre

27/01/08 - Milwaukee, WI @ Pabst Theatre

29/01/08 - Madison, WI @ Majestic Theatre

30/01/08 - Minneapolis, MN @ Fine Line Music Cafe

01/02/08 - Denver, CO @ Ogden Theatre
04/02/08 - Seattle, WA @ Showbox at the Market

05/02/08 - Vancouver, BC @ Commodore Ballroom

06/02/08 - Portland, OR @ Roseland Theatre

08/02/08 - San Francisco, CA @ Warfield Theatre

09/02/08 - Los Angeles, CA @ The Wiltern

10/02/08 - Anaheim, CA @ House of Blues

13/02/08 - San Diego, CA @ House of Blues

14/02/08 - Las Vegas, NV @ House of Blues

Download: Editors - The Weight Of The World [mp3]

MySpace: Editors

Editors: Official Website

Buy An End Has A Start

Kate Nash: North American Shows

2007-12-06T11:17:00.000-05:00

British songstress Kate Nash will play four shows in North America at the beginning of the new year. The mini-tour begins in Toronto at the MOD Club and then hits the United States for three more dates. The tour is in support of Nash's official release of Made Of Bricks, her debut album, in the U.S.. The album hit number one in the UK in August 2007.

The dates are as follows:

07/01/08 Toronto, ON @ Mod Club

09/01/08 New York, NY @ Bowery Ballroom

12/01/08 San Francisco, CA @ 330 Ritch

14/01/08 Los Angeles, CA @ Troubadour

(Tickets on sale this Friday, 07/12/07)

Download: Kate Nash - Pumpkin Soup [mp3]

MySpace: Kate Nash

Kate Nash: Official Website

Buy Made Of Bricks

Amy MacDonald - This Is The Life

2007-12-05T11:45:00.000-05:00

Scottish singer-songwriter Amy MacDonald released her debut album This Is The Life on July 30 2007 in the UK (no North American release yet). The album has done very well and deservedly so. The songs are simply great. And while she cites influences as diverse as The Libertines to Travis to Michael Jackson, some of them are difficult to hear in the music, which has elements of everything from folk-pop to alternative.

The next single 'This Is The Life' is released on December 10th. Amy MacDonald plays one more show this year in Glasgow and then embarks on a UK tour in February 2008. Check out her MySpace page for the dates.

Download: Amy MacDonald - This Is The Life [mp3]

MySpace: Amy MacDonald

Amy MacDonald: Official Website

Buy This Is The Life

CD Releases: Week of 04/12/07

2007-12-04T09:59:00.000-05:00

This Week's Notable Music Releases
Aloha - Light Works (Polyvinyl)
Bonde Do Role - Marina Gasolina (Domino)
Chris Shlarb - Twilight and Ghost Stories (Asthmatic Kitty)
Daft Punk - Alive 2007 (Virgin)
Ghostface - The Big Doe Rehab (Def Jam)
Rufus Wainwright - Rufus Does Judy At Carnegie Hall [Live] (Geffen Records)

Cuff The Duke - Sidelines Of The City

2007-11-29T12:21:00.000-05:00

Enjoy a little bit of Canadiana courtesy of Cuff The Duke. The band, from Oshawa, Ontario, Canada released their third album this year on Hardwood Records. Entitled Sidelines Of The City, the album is a little bit of a step away from the alt-country genre their fans are probably use to. But the band's roots are still firmly planted and their latest release is fused with everything from indie rock to alternative country (don't let the 'country' cause any hesitation, it's not Toby Keith or anything) to Canadian folk.

All in all, Sideline Of the City is a solid offering from Cuff The Duke. Check out tracks like 'Surging Revivals' and 'Long Road' to see what you're missing. The album has a lot of energy and some great harmonies. It should make Cuff the Duke a household name to Canadian music fans and hopefully garner them some attention everywhere else.

The band play The MOD Club in Toronto on Friday (Nov. 30th).

Download: Cuff The Duke - If I Live or If I Die [mp3]
MySpace: Cuff The Duke
Cuff The Duke: Official Website

Buy Sidelines Of The City

The Magnetic Fields

2007-11-28T14:24:00.000-05:00

New York's The Magnetic Fields are set to release another album on January 15th entitled Distortion. The new song is an instrumental called 'Three-Way.' Well that's not entirely true. There are periodic shouts of "three-way!," dispersed throughout the track. Following the release of the album the band will embark on a mini tour of the US. Here are the dates:

2/11 - Northampton, MA - Iron Horse Music Hall

2/12 - Northampton, MA - Iron Horse Music Hall

2/14 - Somerville, MA - Somerville Theatre

2/15 - Somerville, MA - Somerville Theatre

2/21 - New York, NY - Town Hall

2/22 - New York, NY - Town Hall

2/23 - New York, NY - Town Hall

2/24 - New York, NY - Town Hall

2/28 - San Francisco, CA - Herbst Theatre

2/29 - San Francisco, CA - Herbst Theatre

3/02 - Los Angeles, CA - Music Box @ Fonda

3/03 - Los Angeles, CA - Music Box @ Fonda
3/06 - Seattle, WA - Town Hall

3/07 - Seattle, WA - Town Hall

3/14 - Chicago, IL - Old Town School Of Folk Music

3/15 - Chicago, IL - Old Town School Of Folk Music

3/16 - Chicago, IL - Old Town School Of Folk Music

Download: The Magnetic Fields - Three-Way [mp3]

The Magnetic Fields: Official Website

Buy Distortion

You Should Be Listening To: DUFFY - ROCKFERRY

2007-11-26T11:18:00.000-05:00

Duffy's 'Rockferry' is a song that will have you listening intently from it's opening to closing notes. And then you'll play it again. The track is reminiscent of the 60's, defined by haunting strings and strong vocals. Don't know what else to say, except that this is the song you need to be listening to at the moment.

You can download the song right now from iTunes and pre-order the two track 7" vinyl which is released on December 3rd.

Download: Duffy - Rockferry [mp3]

MySpace: Duffy

Duffy: Official Website

Pre-Order Rockferry

You Should Be Listening To: THE PERISHERS - MY HEART

2007-11-22T12:43:00.001-05:00

The Perishers' 'My Heart' is a terrific song. Actually it's just one of ten simply-crafted pop songs off of 2005's Let There Be Morning. So while I encourage you to sample the song, I strongly recommend you buy the album. I feel like I've hyped this band up a lot. But it's deserving and you'll thank me for it, I promise.

Now if only we can get some shows on this side of the pond.

Download: The Perishers - My Heart [mp3]
MySpace: The Perishers
The Perishers: Official Website

Buy Let There Be Morning

Nicole Atkins and the Sea - Neptune City

2007-11-21T12:00:00.000-05:00

Nicole Atkins and the Sea opened for The Pipettes at Lee's Palace in Toronto this past Sunday. This was their third time in Toronto in recent months and the touring seems to be paying off. By the end of their set, the stage area had filled up and the band seemed to have gained quite a few fans. It was a terrific set. They won me and all of my friends over. And it didn't hurt that one of the band members is from Toronto.

Nicole Atkins' debut album, Neptune City, was released about two weeks ago. This was preceded by the EP Bleeding Diamonds in 2006. Atkins' 'sound' is best described as folk-pop, but with a dark edge to it. Expect to hear a lot more about her in the near future. At least that's my prediction.

FYI: Nicole Atkins and the Sea appeared on the Late Night Show with David Letterman around the same time as the album release date, performing the track 'The Way It Is'. You can view their performance at the band's MySpace page.

Download: Nicole Atkins and the Sea - The Way It Is [mp3]

MySpace: Nicole Atkins

Nicole Atkins: Official Website

Buy Neptune City

CD Releases: Week of 20/11.07

2007-11-20T15:41:00.000-05:00

This Weeks Notable Music Releases
Boris w/Merzbow - Rock Dream (Southern Lord)
Copeland - Dressed Up & In Line (TMG)
Cursive - Bad Sects (Saddle Creek Records)
Dan Deacon and Jimmy Joe Roche - Ultimate Reality (Cak)
Six Organs of Admittance - Shelter From the Ash (Drag City)
The Valerie Project - The Valerie Project (Drag City)
Will Oldham - Ask Forgiveness (Drag City)

The Pipettes @ Lee's Palace, Toronto (18-11-07)

2007-11-19T12:58:00.000-05:00

I finally got the chance to check out The Pipettes at Lee's Palace in Toronto last night. I should probably start off by telling you that I've been obsessed with this group for a while now, so the chances of me not liking their show were slim to none. However, I was still slightly nervous about how it would all turn out. Maybe it was because I was dragging my friends with me, the majority of whom have never heard The Pipettes before. I mean, I've seen a lot of live clips of their shows and have quite a few mp3's of their concerts but you just don't know until you experience it for yourself right (Smashing Pumpkins, anyone?)

Anyways, none of this matters because The Pipettes were fantastic. The Cassettes sounded great and the girls sang and danced their way through a short but sweet set. The Pipettes have been touring this album for a while now and have played so many shows that I'm sure I don't really have any new information to enlighten you with. Well, before they played 'Pull Shapes' the girls taught the crowd some dance moves but I refrained from doing it myself cause if I did I probably would have pulled some muscles instead. Is that introduction new? No. Ok.

I can't remember the exact set list but I know that they started with the new track 'Catch and Boogie' and went straight into 'Your Kisses Are Wasted On Me.' Everything after that is pretty much a blur but they did manage to play the majority of their debut album and some 'new' songs they have been playing live for a while now.

But I gotta tell you, I think the Toronto audience was pretty awesome. I know I'm biased but the crowd was very receptive in my opinion. They danced and clapped along to the songs and seemed to really appreciate what The Pipettes are doing. This in turn created a great atmosphere and is probably what made the show so great, except for The Pipettes, of course.

I don't know if The Pipettes are coming this way anytime in the near future (I would say it's highly unlikely), but if you ever get the chance you need to go see them.

FYI: I'll post some pictures as soon as I can.

Buy We Are The Pipettes

Chris Walla - Sing Again

2007-11-15T14:33:00.000-05:00

Chris Walla, of Death Cab For Cutie, is set to release his solo album Field Manual on January 29, 2008. Walla's album was hit with the spotlight not to long ago when it was seized by border officials while on its way to his label's headquarters in Seattle. However, the master tracks have since been returned and everything is ready to go.

The third track off the album entitled 'Sing Again' has been made available to download from the Barsuk Records website. It really shouldn't be a surprise that the song is pretty great. Besides his work with Death Cab, Walla has established a strong 'musical resume.' He has produced the works of such bands as Nada Surf, The Decemberists, The Long Winters as well as Canadian acts such as Hot Hot Heat and Tegan and Sara, amongst others.

And let's not forget that Death Cab have an album coming out sometime (hopefully) in Spring 2008.

Download: Chris Walla - Sing Again [mp3]

Chris Walla: Barsuk Records

Buy Field Manual

New Music From The Futureheads

2007-11-14T12:22:00.001-05:00

Exciting new music from The Futureheads today. It's called 'Broke Up The Time' and it's classic Futureheads. If you've listened to this band before then you know what I mean. If not, I encourage you to give them a listen. The song is available to download off their official website but I'll provide it here to make every one's life a little easier.

The band are releasing their third, presently untitled, studio album in 2008. Expect the same ol'catchy, short but sweet, post-punk rock that The Futureheads never fail to provide us with.

Download: The Futureheads - Broke Up The Time [mp3]

MySpace: The Futureheads

The Futureheads: Official Website

Buy The Futureheads

CD Releases: Week of 13/11/07

2007-11-13T11:30:00.000-05:00

The Killers release a collection of B-Sides today in the form of Sawdust, just in time for the holiday season. It also contains the new track 'Tranquilize' featuring Lou Reed. This album is for any Killers fans who must have everything the band releases/records but do not collect singles.

Here is a list of this week's other music releases:

Notable CD Releases

Dillinger Escape Plan - Ire Works (Relapse)

Dirty On Purpose - Like Bees (North Street Records)

The Hives - The Black and White Album (Interscope)

The Killers - Sawdust (The Island Def Jam Music Group)

Os Mutantes - Live At The Barbican (Luka Bop)

Download: The Killers - All The Pretty Faces [mp3]

MySpace: The Killers

The Killers: Official Website

Buy Sawdust

The Organ - Grab That Gun

2007-11-10T16:10:00.001-05:00

Several years ago there was a band out of Vancouver called The Organ that I could just not stop listening too. Music was a little boring for me at the time and it had been a while since I was really excited about something I had heard (keep in mind that a long time for me a like a month or so). I loved their debut album Grab That Gun. Mainly because vocally, singer Katie Sketch is superb. She has one of the best voices out there. The Organ is anything but upbeat and a lot of reviews labelled their music as 'depressing' or something you listen to on a rainy day when you're about to commit suicide. To me, their music is much more than that. It's actually pretty special. And yes, the organ is a dominate instrument in the songs.

Sadly the band decided to call it quits. What makes things worse is that the new songs The Organ began playing at their shows sounded terrific and a new release from them would have been fantastic. However, I don't think that makes the band any less relevant. And singer Katie Sketch seems to have another project in the works called Mermaids. I haven't heard anything about them and I have no details yet but I am interested to see what they produce. Until then I will remind people how great The Organ were and hopefully introduce them to a few new people.

Download: The Organ - Memorize The City [mp3]

MySpace: The Organ

The Organ: Official Website

Buy Grab That Gun

You Should Be Listening To: CRIPPLED BLACK PHOENIX - YOU TAKE THE DEVIL OUT OF ME

2007-11-08T14:54:00.000-05:00

Crippled Black Phoenix consists of Justin Greaves, bassist Dominic Aitchison from Mogwai and a shitload of other people, all with their own diverse musical backgrounds. Seriously, there are a lot of members. They sort of put Broken Social Scene to shame. As a result of such a large group, the band compose what I consider to be some very layered cinematic/climatic songs. "You Take The Devil Out of Me" is no different. It's a good song that reminds me of a lot of the great stuff that Mogwai produces.

Their debut album, A Love Shared Of Disasters, came out in May 2007 in North America (April in the UK) and apparently the band are already set to record some new material. This is a great band to check out, especially if you're into film scores like me.

FYI: There's a fantastic instrumental download at the band's MySpace page.

Download: Crippled Black Phoenix - You Take The Devil Out of Me [mp3]

MySpace: Crippled Black Phoenix

Crippled Black Phoenix - Official Website

Buy A Love Shared of Disasters

Raine Maida - The Hunter's Lullaby

2007-11-07T14:37:00.000-05:00

Our Lady Peace was and still is one of my favourite bands. They are one of those groups that just keep getting better with every release. The group is fronted by Raine Maida and although Our Lady Peace have been around for well over 15 year, the singer is only now releasing his first full-length solo album. Maida released an EP entitled Love Hope Hero late last year. Inspired by the art of spoken word, The Hunter's Lullaby is a collection of songs from a well established songwriter. Although Maida is used to writing songs that fill up a hockey arena, tracks on the The Hunter's Lullaby are a far cry from 'arena rock.' However, the songs are equally as powerful, just listen to the opening track 'Careful What You Wish For.'

The album drops on November 13th but you can stream The Hunter's Lullaby in it's entirely on Maida's MySpace page.

Download: Raine Maida - Yellow Brick Road [mp3]

MySpace: Raine Maida

Raine Maida: Official Website

Buy The Hunter's Lullaby

CD Releases: Week of 06/11/07

2007-11-06T14:58:00.000-05:00

Sigur Ros release their double CD Hvarf-Heim containing studio versions of unreleased songs (Hvarf) and acoustic versions of previously released tracks (Heim).

Notable CD Releases
Black Swans - Change! (Southern)
Bright Eyes - Motion Sickness: Live Recordings (Team Love)
Grizzly Bear - Friend EP (Warp)
LCD Soundsystem - 45:33 (DFA)
Minipop - A New Hope (Take Root Records)
Pedro - You, Me & Everyone (Mush)
Sigur Ros - Hvarf/Heim (XL)
Tokyo Police Club - Smith (Paper Bag)

Download: Sigur Ros - Vaka [mp3] (Heim)
MySpace: Sigur Ros
Sigur Ros: Official Website

Buy Hvarf-Heim

Kevin Drew - Spirit If....

2007-11-05T13:49:00.000-05:00

Kevin Drew is one of the founders of Canadian super group Broken Social Scene. He recently released some solo material in the form of the album Spirit If... on the Toronto-based label, Arts and Crafts. Considering that Drew is one of the chief songwriters of Broken Social Scene, it's hard not to hear remnants of BSS all over this album. And it doesn't help that certain members of BSS, such as Feist, Emily Haines and Amy Millan, appear on the album. However, this is in my opinion, a good thing as the Canadian group contains several noteworthy individual talents. The first single 'Tbtf' is a mellow offering, as are many tracks on this album. Yet, Spirit If.... still manages to provide a chaotic dreamy feel and that alone makes Drew's solo effort solid and worth checking out.

If you're wondering why the album title appears as Broken Social Scene Presents....Kevin Drew Spirit If...., it is because the album is apparently the first in a series of solo releases from members of Broken Social Scene. Next up is BSS's founding member Brendan Canning's in 2008.

Download: Kevin Drew - Safety Bricks [mp3]

MySpace: Kevin Drew

Kevin Drew: Official Web Site

Buy Spirit If...

Album of the Month: Neverending White Lights - Act II: The Blood and the Life Eternal

2007-11-01T11:18:00.000-04:00

Neverending White Lights' Act II: The Blood and the Life Eternal is my choice for album of the month. The album is the follow-up to Act I: Goodbye Friends of the Heavenly Body, which featured colloborations on every track, minus the opener, with the likes of Raine Maida (Our Lady Peace), Scott Anderson (Finger 11) and Jimmy Gnecco (Ours). It also featured the amazing track, Grace featuring Dallas Green of Alexisonfire, a song which dominated Canadian radio in 2005.

If you have never heard of Neverending White Lights here's what you need to know in a nutshell: 1. NWL is fronted by Daniel Victor; 2. He is Canadian. (Let's here it for Windsor, Ontario); 3. This is not a band, it's a project; 4. While songs feature a different singer for each, Victor plays all of the musical instruments.

Act II is no different than its predecessor, as it features a handful of singers collaborating with Victor. Some of the notable artists include Melissa Auf der Maur (Hole, Smashing Pumpkins, Auf der Maur), Rob Dickenson (Catheerine Wheel), Sune Rose Wagner (The Ravonettes) and Aqualung. It is also just as dramatic and melodic as Act I. The first single Always has already hit Canadian airwaves and is a terrific choice to remind people just what Neverending White Lights had to offer in the first place; romantic, rich, textured songs.

Neverending White Lights seems to be one of Canada's little secrets. But I think it's time we let everyone in on it. If you like your rock with a little bit of ambiance, this album is for you.

Tracklisting
1. Theme From The Blood and the Life Eternal
2. Dove Coloured Sky (feat. Jimmy Gnecco of Ours)
3. The Living (feat. Coury Palermo of Lynden)
4. The World Is Darker (feat. Auf Der Maur)
5. My Life Without Me (feat. Mat Joly of Mobile)
6. Miss World
7. The Warning (feat. Jonathan Bates of Mellowdrone)
8. Always
9. Where We Are (feat. Rob Dickinson of Catherine Wheel)
10. Black Is The Colour of My True (feat. Lexi Valentine of Magneta Lane)
11. Bleeds To An End
12. Nothing I Can Save
13. Distance (feat. Aqualung)
14. Last Of The Great Lovers (feat. Sune Rose Wagner of The Raveonettes)
15. Warding Off The Spirits (feat. Hawksley Workman)

MySpace: Neverending White Lights

Neverending White Lights: Official Website

Buy Act II: The Blood and the Life Eternal

It's Halloween!!!!!!!!!!!

2007-10-31T14:25:00.000-04:00

Ok, it's Halloween today. So to mark this auspicious occasion I'm going to take a detour from the usual happenings here and just post a song by The Horrors. I mean they're 'goth' and fantastic and all that good stuff. Plus they have a song called Jack The Ripper, who may not be directly related to Halloween but is still a pretty scary character nonetheless. I mean his (or her) identity is still unknown, despite all of the theories. I mean to think this The Ripper's identity has alluded us for so long....alright, I'm rambling. Enjoy Halloween!

Go out, get some candy and scare some kids.

Download: The Horrors - Jack The Ripper [mp3]

MySpace: The Horrors

The Horrors: Official Website

Buy The Horrors - Strange House

CD Releases: Week of 30/10/07

2007-10-30T11:19:00.000-04:00

Here's a list of some notable releases this week:

This Week's CD Releases
60 Watt Kid - 60 Watt Kid (Absolutely Kosher)
Nicole Atkins - Neptune City (Columbia Records)
Blues Traveler — Cover Yourself (Columbia/RED Ink)
David Byrne - The Knee Plays [Reissue] (Nonesuch)
Damian "Jr. Gong" Marley — Mr. Marley (Universal Republic)
Queen — Queen Rock Montreal (Hollywood)
Saves The Day — Under The Boards (Vagrant)
Sharon Jones & Dap Kings — 100 Days, 100 Nights (Daptone)
Taking Back Sunday — Notes From The Past (Victory)

You Should Be Listening To: YEASAYER - 2080

2007-10-29T11:21:00.000-04:00

Today I will encourage you to sample a song from Brooklyn, New York's Yeasayer. The single is called 2080 and it's from the band's debut LP, All Hour Cymbals, which is in stores now. It is a terrific song that begins with the brilliant lyrics 'I can't sleep when I think of the times we're living in\I can't sleep when I think of the future I was born into.' There's nothing wrong with a little pessimism every now and then, right? Some melodic chanting, chorus harmonizing and eerie children vocals fills in the remainder of the track. Give Yeasayer 5:24 minutes of your time, you won't regret it.

Download: Yeasayer - 2080 [mp3]
MySpace: Yeasayer
Yeasayer: Official Website

Buy All Hour Cymbals

Le Loup

2007-10-25T11:58:00.000-04:00

Le Loup. French name for an American band. Interesting. And if my French skills are at all intact from high school then I believe Le Loup translates into 'The Wolf.' The band formed back in 2006 in Washington, D.C. That's not too long ago but they are signed to Jonathan Poneman's (founder of Sub Pop) new label Hardly Art. The Throne Of The Third Heaven Of Nations' Millennium General Assembly, the group's debut album, was released in September. I haven't gotten a chance to listen to it in its entirety. However, my first reactions to the songs I have heard are that they remind me of two great Canadian bands, namely Broken Social Scene and The Arcade Fire. That should be reason enough to give them a sample. There are a lot of sounds and layers happening in the songs, so listen carefully to gain a full appreciation of Le Loup.

Download [mp3]: Le Loup - We Are Gods! We Are Wolves! [mp3]

MySpace: Le Loup

Le Loup: Official Website

Buy The Throne Of The Third Heaven Of Nations' Millennium General Assembly

You Should Be Listening To: BLACK LIPS - COLD HANDS

2007-10-24T11:16:00.000-04:00

Black Lips are a band from Atlanta, Georgia who write noisy punk-garage rock. They have been around for quite some time but are only now gaining a larger audience after a successful run at SXSW this past year. Their new album, Good Bad Not Evil, was released on September 11th through Vice Records and has received some great reviews. The first single is called 'Cold Hands,' a track with spirited/gritty guitars and blustering, in-your-face vocals. Listen and love it.

Download [mp3]: Black Lips - Cold Hands
MySpace: Black Lips

Buy Good Bad Not Evil

CD Releases: Week of 23/10/07

2007-10-23T16:36:00.000-04:00

Ryan Adams and the Cardinals release a 7-track EP today entitled Follow The Lights. It includes three new songs including 'My Love For You Is Real' and 'Follow the Light.' The other four tracks are live studio recordings, one of which is a cover of the Alice In Chains song 'Down In A Hole.' Apparently a box set is in the works for release later this year. No idea what the content is but it seems like Ryan Adams and Co. are very busy.

This Weeks CD Releases

Black Dice - Load Blown (Paw Tracks)

Castanets - In The Vines (Asthmatic Kitty)
Cinematic Orchestra - Breathe (Domino Records)

David Byrne - The Knee Plays [Reissue] (Nonesuch)

Efterklang - Parades (Leaf Records)

Holy Fuck - Holy Fuck (XL Records)

Phosphorescent - Pride (Dead Oceans)
Prefuse 73 - Preparations (Warp Records)

Ryan Adams & The Cardinals - Follow The Lights EP (Lost Highway)

Saturday Looks Good to Me - Fill Up The Room (K Records)

Soft - Gone Faded (LTY)

Subtle - Yell & Ice (Lex)

Thrills - Teenager (Virgin Records)

Tullycraft - Every Scene Needs a Center (Magic Marker)

Vashti Bunyan - Some Things Just Stick In Your Mind: Singles and Demos 1964-1967 (DiChristina)

Ween - La Cucaracha (Rounder)

Download [mp3]: Ryan Adams and the Cardinals - My Love For You Is Real (demo)

Buy Follow The Lights

The Thaw Sessions From The Verve

2007-10-22T10:21:00.000-04:00

A very cool (free) download is being offered by NME.com. It's called 'The Thaw Sessions' and it is being described as the first jam session that took place between The Verve after the band decided to reunite. I just listened to it and all I can tell you is that it is 14 minutes of uninterrupted, raw musical goodness. The download will be available for a week starting today. Just click on the link below, follow the instructions and it's all yours.

The Verve - The Thaw Sessions

MIA's UK Tour

2007-10-18T11:37:00.000-04:00

M.I.A. has been playing quite a few shows in North America but in December she is back in the UK, embarking on a mini tour prior to Christmas. Not only has M.I.A. put out one of the best albums this year (Kala) but from what I hear, she was one of the best acts at the Virgin Music Festival in Toronto this past summer. So if she's playing your town, journey out and go see her.

M.I.A's UK Tour Date

08/12/07 London @ICA

10/12/07 Birmingham @Custard Factory

11/12/07 Newcastle @Digital

14/12/07 Brighton @Concorde

15/12/07 Bristol @Anson Rooms

17/12/07 Nottingham @Rescue Rooms

18/12/07 Manchester @Academy 2

19/12/07 Norwich @Waterfront

20/12/07 London @Coronet

The news of the UK tour also gives an excuse to post on of my favourite songs off of M.I.A.'s new album. Here it is:

Download [mp3]: M.I.A. - $20

MySpace: M.I.A.

M.I.A.: Official Website

Buy Kala

CMJ: The Red Romance

2007-10-17T13:42:00.000-04:00

Back in May I went to see The Killers play at the Air Canada Center in Toronto. I actually got there in time to see the opening band, a group called The Red Romance. I had no idea what to expect and to be quite honest it is a rare occurrence that I leave a show actually wanting to know more about an opener. However, The Red Romance caught my attention and I was surprised to find out later on that the group were unsigned. Opening for The Killers without a label, not bad. And they did win the crowd over, at least those who were present.

The Red Romance are from New York and consists of guitarist Matthew Dublin, bassist Adam Chilenski, lead guitarist Herschel Gaer and drummer Darren Beckett. They released their self-titled, 5-track EP back in May and play CMJ tonight at the Delancey. If you get a chance make sure you check them out. The Red Romance write a brand of indie 80's music with a modern flare that is worth your attention or at least a record label's.

Are they still unsigned? What the hell!

Download [mp3]: The Red Romance - You're So Cold

MySpace: The Red Romance

The Red Romance: Official Website

Buy The Red Romance EP

CD Releases: Week of 16/10/07

2007-10-16T10:32:00.000-04:00

Kind of a slow week in terms of new releases. However, Jimmy Eat World release their follow-up to 2004's Futures entitled Chase This Light. The new album was produced by Butch Vig of Garbage fame. If you don't have Futures yet, you really should check it out. It was a quality piece of work. Got me through the examination period in my second year at uni'. Good times!

This Week's CD Releases
Neil Young - 'Chrome Dreams II'
Exploding Hearts - Shattered (Green Noise)
Louis XIV - Guilt By Association (ATL)
Jimmy Eat World - Chase This Light (Interscope)
Blakes - The Blakes (Light In The Attic)
Joan of Arc - Orchard Vale - Soundtrack
Soulsavers - It’s Not How Far You Fall It’s the Way You Land (Columbia)
Makes Nice! - This Time Tomorrow (Frenetic)
Maritime - Heresy and the Hotel Choir (Flameshovel)
Muscles - Guns, Babes and Lemonade (Modular)
Sally Shapiro - Disco Romance (Paper Bag)
Southeast Engine - A Wheel Within a Wheel (Misra)
Octopus Project - Hello Avalanche (Peek-A-Boo)

Iron and Wine: The Shepherd's Dog

2007-10-15T10:40:00.000-04:00

The Shepherd's Dog is the third studio album from Sam Beam's Iron and Wine. It was released on September 25, 2007 and is being considered a great step forward for Iron and Wine. Not only has it received a lot of attention, it has even sold a decent amount of copies. And deservedly so. The album is a fantastic collection of folk-rock songs.

The amount of detail in the music and instrumental progression is what struck me most about this album. You really have to listen carefully to take it all in and gain a full appreciation for what Beam has to offer on The Shepherd's Dog. At the same time, Beam's vocals should not be understated. To do so would be wrong. His voice is smooth and soothing and complements the nature of the songs very well.

I think The Shepherd's Dog is one of those albums that you admire and value more and more with every listen. At least, that has been my experience. The first single, 'Boy With A Coin' was released quite some time ago on July 10, 2007. Other stand out tracks include, 'Carousel' and 'Wolves (Song of the Shepherd's Dog).' As for track #5, 'House By The Sea,' well, nobody should be without hearing this song! I absolutely love it.

Some advice: if you like what you hear, I would consider either ordering the album off of Iron and Wine's label, Sub Pop or actually, dare I say it, going to a record shop and picking up a copy. This is because the album comes with a bonus disc with two unreleased songs called 'Arms of a Thief' and 'Serpent Charmer.' So if you're the kind of person who needs to have every song available by an artist, such as myself, no downloading off iTunes for this one.

Download [mp3]: Iron and Wine - House By The Sea

MySpace: Iron and Wine

Iron and Wine: Official Website

Buy The Shepherd's Dog

You Should Be Listening To: BELL X1 - ROCKY TOOK A LOVER

2007-10-12T20:26:00.000-04:00

OK, I know their last album, Flock, came out way back in 2005 but I really just started listening to Bell X1 and I gotta tell you, I'm really liking their stuff. And you will too. They' re from Ireland, have been together for quite some time and deserve some attention here in North America.

Now that I've gotten that out of my system, Flock is a fantastic album but if you need a starter song, listen to 'Rocky Took A Lover.' Funny name for a song but a good one nonetheless.

Cool Fact: The band used to be headed by Irish folk singer Damien Rice under the name Juniper.

Download[mp3]: Bell X1 - Rocky Took A Lover

MySpace: Bell X1

Bell X1: Official Web Site

Buy Flock

Welcome To The New Trend In Music

2007-10-10T12:40:00.001-04:00

And what a trend it is. Pay what you want. Sounds good, right.

Well, today Radiohead released their new album In Rainbows. The unique idea around this release is that the band are giving fans the choice of how much they want to pay for the music. You can pay $20, $5, $100 (yeah, right!) or you can hang your head low and grab it for free (more likely). Honestly though, why should you feel guilty? Radiohead have sold millions of albums and if they hadn't, they would never have participated in this. So I say grab this for nothing and pay for music from smaller/lesser known groups that need the support of their fans. I'm giving you permission to do so.

All in all, this is a pretty cool idea and only time will tell how it works out. However, other bands such as Oasis are already following in the footsteps of Radiohead and planing to release albums with the 'pay what you want' concept.

I'm not going to post any songs from the new Radiohead album. Like I said before, you can get it for free and it is a sure bet that the amount of purchases are being tracked. Just click on the 'In Rainbows' link below and buy/download away.

Radiohead: In Rainbows

New Tune From Bloc Party

2007-10-09T10:19:00.000-04:00

Cool new song from Bloc Party to share today. It's an instant keeper. I have to admit when I heard the opening notes I got a little nervous. I thought it sounded like a rave-headbanger dance anthem. But my fears were instantly dispelled. The song, called 'Flux', is completely and utterly Bloc Party. It was recorded a few weeks back after the Reading and Leeds Festival and will be released on November 12 in CD format, as well as in 7" and 12" vinyl. The tracklisting for each, minus 'Flux', seems to be different for each, so look out for more new songs from Bloc Party in the next few weeks.

Download [mp3]: Bloc Party - Flux (Radio Rip)

MySpace: Bloc Party

Bloc Party: Official Web Site

Buy A Weekend In the City

New Sigur Ros - Hijomiland

2007-10-08T10:18:00.000-04:00

New Sigur Ros song to post today. It's from the upcoming album Hvarf-Heim, which is a double-CD compilation that contains studio recorded versions of previously unreleased songs, as well as acoustic versions of others. It is released on November 6th in North America (and the day before in Europe) and will be preceded by a 7" vinyl of the first single Hijomiland on October 22.

Hijomiland is unmistakeably Sigur Ros. Its grand. Its epic. Its distinctively Icelandic. And its a remarkable piece of music.

Download [mp3]: Sigur Ros - Hijomiland (Radio Rip BBC)

MySpace: Sigur Ros

Sigur Ros: Official Web Site

Buy Hvarf-Heim

Wintersleep - Welcome To The Night Sky

2007-10-04T14:03:00.000-04:00

I think its time I post some more music from Canada. And it doesn't get anymore Canadian than Wintersleep. I mean their from Halifax, Nova Scotia and their name refers to hibernation. You know, that state of inactivity used to conserve energy, especially in the winter. Halifax, hibernation and winter. It doesn't get anymore Canadian than that.

Wintersleep released their third studio album, Welcome To The Night Sky, this week. The first single is called 'Weighty Ghost.' and its defined by a heart-thumping drumbeat and a sing-along chorus. It's the perfect song to introduce Wintersleep to anyone who has never heard anything by them before. Other noteworthy songs are 'Archaeologists' and 'Search Party.' The album itself was produced by Tony Doogan who has worked with Mogwai, Super Furry Animals and Belle and Sebastien. Not bad for a band from the East Coast of Canada.

Wintersleep are touring all across Canada this fall. Check their MySpace page for a list of dates.

Download [mp3]: Wintersleep - Weighty Ghost
MySpace: Wintersleep

Wintersleep: Official Web Site

Buy Welcome To The Night Sky

The Pipettes: Rescheduled Tour Dates

2007-10-03T14:09:00.000-04:00

Late last week The Pipettes were forced to cancel the first three weeks of their North American tour. It was set to begin yesterday and since I listed the now canceled dates, I feel like it is my civic duty to post the newly rescheduled ones. The first six remain unchanged and a date for Philadelphia should be announced soon:

10/25 Los Angeles, CA @ Echoplex
10/29 San Francisco, CA @ Bimbo's 365 Club
10/31 Portland, OR @ Wonder Ballroom
11/1 Seattle, WA @ Crocodile Cafe
11/2 Eugene, OR @ John Henry's
11/3 Vancouver, BC @ The Plaza Club
11/5 Denver, CO @ The Walnut Room
11/7 Austin, TX @ The Parish
11/9 Atlanta, GA @ Vinyl
11/11 Baltimore, MD @ Sonar Club Stage
11/12 New York, NY @ Blender Theater @ Gramercy
11/15 Boston, MA @ Great Scott
11/16 Montreal, QC @ Petit Campus
11/18 Toronto, ON @ Lee's Place
11/19 Pittsburgh, PA @ Diesel
11/20 Cleveland, OH @ Beachland Ballroom Tavern
11/21 Chicago, IL @ Double Door

MySpace: The Pipettes
The Pipettes: Official Webpage

The Verve Announce More Tour Dates

2007-10-02T15:50:00.000-04:00

My world became a little brighter when The Verve announced they were reuniting this past summer. They were, if you remember, one of the most creative and innovative bands to come from the contemporary British music scene back in the late 90's. I have a lot of love for this band. In fact, 'Lucky Man' from the spellbinding Urban Hymns, ranks as one of my all time favourite songs. The Verve, comprised of the brilliant Richard Ashcroft, bassist Simon Jones, guitarist Nick McCabe and drummer Pete Salisbury, are now set to play a second batch of dates in December. This is the response to the selling out of the first handful of shows that were initially announced.

The Verve are planning on releasing a new album this year, although details have not been made available as of yet. The band broke up eight years ago and have worked on some great side projects during that time. The most notable being Richard Ashcroft's solo albums. If you have never listened to any of Ashcroft's work since The Verve, you really should check out Alone With Everybody, Human Condition and Keys To The World. These are the works of a musical legend.

It is, of course, a little to early to speculate if and when The Verve will make the journey to North America. Keep your fingers crossed. The Verve UK tour dates are as follows:

11/2/07 Glasgow, Scotland @Glasgow Academy

11/3/07 Glasgow, Scotland @Glasgow Academy

11/5/07 Blackpool, England @Empress Ballroom

11/6/07 Blackpool, England @Empress Ballroom

11/8/07 London, England @Roundhouse

11/9/07 London, England @Roundhouse

12/13/07 London, England @02 Arena

12/15/07 Glasgow, Scotland @SECC Centre

12/17/07 Belfast, Ireland @Odyssey Arena

12/20 /07 Manchester, England @Central

Download [mp3]: The Verve - Lucky Man

MySpace: The Verve

The Verve: Official Webpage

Buy Urban Hymns

Album of the Month: THE PIPETTES - WE ARE THE PIPETTES

2007-10-01T12:24:00.000-04:00

The album has been out for well over a year in other parts of the world but tomorrow, The Pipettes' We Are the Pipettes, will finally be released in North America. It's taken too long, I think I've been listening to it for six months now. However, since many international artists are not getting a proper release here nowadays, let's just be grateful that The Pipettes are.

And that's because their debut album is FANTASTIC! Really. I don't have a bad thing to say about it or them. I also don't have anything new to say about their music that has not been said before. Yes, they are a throwback to the 60's girl-group pop era. Yes, the album has a retro sound. Yes, it has all been done before. Yet, We Are the Pipettes is still a modern indie pop album. It's lively and spirited and refreshing. You'll listen to it, quickly learn the lyrics to it, sing-along to it and probably have a dance to it (In the privacy of your own room, of course. Not me though, I'll probably pull a muscle or something).

The North American version has been slightly tweaked. Besides the new album cover, there are two new tracks that are not available anywhere else. Sadly, the older songs have been remastered for some reason. I'm not sure why. I mean, why change a good thing? But I've heard the 'newer' versions and it's not a big deal, especially if this is your first time hearing their songs.

I cannot recommend The Pipettes enough. Pick up the album and if you get a chance, get a hold of some of their B-sides like, 'Really That Bad' and 'Guess Who Ran Off With the Milkman'. Both of those can be found on the 5 track EP, Your Kisses Are Wasted On Me but there are lots more floating around the web that are worth checking out.

Download [mp3]: The Pipettes- Judy
MySpace: The Pipettes
The Pipettes: Official Webpage

Buy We Are The Pipettes

Jose Gonzalez - Teardrop

2007-09-27T20:13:00.000-04:00

I am a firm believer that a cover song is rarely ever better than the original version. I can't even think of one off the top of my head. That is, until now.

Jose Gonzalez's cover of Massive Attack's electro-trip-hop hit, Teardrop, comes very close to the brilliance of the original. It is truly amazing what Gonzalez can do with just an acoustic guitar. His new album, In Our Nature was released this week and it is the perfect example of great music stripped down to its bare essentials. Listen to 'Cycling Trivialities' and you'll know what I mean.

Download [mp3]: Jose Gonzalez -Teardrop
MySpace: Jose Gonzalez
Jose Gonzalez: Official Webpage

Buy In Our Nature

Milburn - These Are The Facts

2007-09-26T16:45:00.000-04:00

Milburn released their follow-up to 2006's Well Well Well last week. Their first album was a luke warm success and the band have often been rejected as an Arctic Monkeys knock-off. It doesn't help that both bands are from Sheffield. Don't dismiss them because of this coincidence. Milburn can hold their own and have put together an album that will hopefully help them make a name for themselves and dispel those comparisons.

The new album, called These Are The Facts, contains power-pumping bass lines and sleek guitars. The first single is 'What Will You Do (When the Money Goes)' and it is, in my opinion, the strongest track on the album. Other songs that you should not miss include 'Lucy Lovemenot' and 'Count to 10.' And you will not be able to get 'Being a Rogue' out of your head, it is insanely catchy.

I have no information on a North American release date. I don't even think there was an official release of their first album on this side of the pond. Keep your fingers crossed or order it online. Globalization at its finest!

Milburn play shows across the UK this fall. Check their MySpace page for dates.

Download [mp3]: Milburn - Being A Rogue

Myspace: Milburn

Milburn: Official Webpage

More New Music From Babyshambles

2007-09-25T12:02:00.000-04:00

Art and drugs. Drugs and art. I guess the two just go hand in hand. At least they do for Pete Doherty. That's because I got a chance to listen to the new Babyshambles album, Shotter's Nation today. I am happy to say that it is a pretty solid collection of songs. Fans will not be disappointed.

I'm going to post two new songs from the album. I was trying to choose my favourite ones but there really is a lot to good tracks to choose from. Anyways, I'll give it a shot. Shotter's Nation is released next week on October 1st in the UK and October 23rd in North America.

As a side note, I was just joking kids, stay off the drugs.

Download [mp3]: Babyshambles - Unstookie Titled
Download [mp3]: Babyshambles - Deft Left Hand
MySpace: Babyshambles
Babyshambles: Official Website

Buy Shotter's Nation

You Should Be Listening To: ADELE - HOMETOWN GLORY

2007-09-24T20:16:00.000-04:00

Fantastic song by London singer/songwriter Adele. It's called 'Hometown Glory' and it contains a piano loop that is dark, haunting and atmospheric. The single is drawing a lot of attention and critical acclaim. In fact, 'Hometown Glory' was Jo Whiley's Pet Sound just last week.

Adele is currently signed to XL Recording, which is also home to Devendra Banhart, M.I.A., Basement Jaxx and The White Stripes. So, she is in very good company. The single will be released on October 22 as a limited edition 7" vinyl. There is no information on the release of a full length album but if this song is any indication, we should be hearing more from this promising singer/songwriter in the very near future.

Myspace: Adele

CD Releases: Week of 25/09/07

2007-09-23T14:38:00.000-04:00

There is a lot of good new music to choose from this week. Here is just a sampling.

Athlete - Beyond The Neighbourhood (Astralwerks)
Download [mp3]: Athlete - Airport Disco
Buy Beyond The Neighbourhood

Devendra Banhart - Smokey Rolls Down Thunder Canyon (XL)
Download [mp3]: Devendra Banhart - Seahorse
Buy Smokey Rolls Down Thunder Canyon

Foo Fighters - Echoes, Silence, Patience And Grace (RCA)

Download [mp3]: Foo Fighters - The Pretender

Buy Echoes, Silence, Patience And Grace

Jose Gonzalez - In Our Nature (Mute)

Buy In Our Nature

PJ Harvey - White Chalk (Island)
Buy White Chalk

Stars - In Our Bedroom After The War (Arts & Crafts)

Download [mp3]: Stars - Take Me To The Riot

Buy In Our Bedroom After The War

So, go out and buy some music on Tuesday!

Idlewild and Edwin Morgan - The Weight of Years

2007-09-20T21:06:00.000-04:00

You know those times when you first hear a song and instantly fall in love with it. For me, it is one of the greatest feelings that I can experience in life. There is nothing like it.

'The Weight of Years' by Idlewild and Edwin Morgan was one of those songs for me. The track is pretty hard to find. It took me forever. It appears on a compilation entitled Ballads of the Book. The album is based on an idea of Idlewild's Roddy Woomble, in which, the Scottish writing community would write words/lyrics for artists from around Scotland to interpret musically. It's a pretty great idea. And since this song was one of the results, I think it should be done more often.

Put your headphones on, turn the volume up, close your eyes, and listen.

Download[mp3]: Idlewild and Edwin Morgan - The Weight of Years

Buy Ballads of the Book

Band of Horses Tour Dates

2007-09-19T15:30:00.000-04:00

Band of Horses are touring in support of their forthcoming album Cease To Begin. If you have been to this site before, you will probably know that after The Pipettes (whose album 'We Are the Pipettes' is released on October 2 in North America, just thought I'd throw that in there), Band of Horses' Cease to Begin is the album that I am most excited about this fall. It's really good, so you should definitely check it out. It is out a week after The Pipettes, on October 9th.

Hear are their tour dates and another song of their new album called 'Lamb of the Lam (In the City)'.

10/30 Charlottesville, VA @ Satellite Ballroom

11/1 Raleigh, NC @ Lincoln Theatre

11/2 Washington, DC @ 9:30 Club

11/3 Providence, RI @ Lupo's Heartbreak Hotel

11/4 New York, NY @ Terminal 5

11/6 New Haven, CT @ Toad's Place

11/7 Northampton, MA @ Pearl Street

11/8 Montreal, QC @ La Tulipe

11/9 Toronto, ON @ Phoenix Concert Theatre

11/10 Pontiac, MI @ Crofoot Ballroom

11/12 Chicago, IL @ Metro

11/14 Minneapolis, MN @ First Avenue

11/15 Fargo, ND @ The Aquarium/Dempsey's Upstairs

11/17 Bozeman, MT @ The Filling Station

11/18 Boise, ID @ Neurolux

11/19 Seattle, WA @ Showbox

11/20 Seattle, WA @ Showbox

11/21 Portland, OR @ Crystal Ballroom

11/23 San Francisco, CA @ Mezzanine

11/24 Los Angeles, CA @ Avalon LA

11/26 Pomona, CA @ Glass House

Download[mp3]: Band of Horses - Lamb of the Lam (In the City)

MySpace: Band of Horses

Band of Horses: Official Webpage

Buy Cease To Begin

Beirut

2007-09-18T11:17:00.000-04:00

Beirut

Bei-rut - [bay-root]

noun
1. Capital and largest city of Lebanon.
2. Band from Santa Fe, New Mexico, fronted by Zach Condon, who mix pop, folk and world to create a sound that is quite unique in indie music.

And they have a new album called The Flying Club Cup. And it has a song that I like. And here it is.

Download[mp3]: Beirut - Guyamas Sonora
MySpace: Beirut
Beirut: Official Webpage

Buy The Flying Club Cup

Feist; The Canadian Chanteuse

2007-09-16T15:33:00.001-04:00

Ok, so I think I've waited long enough to post some Canadian talent. I have no idea what has taken so long. The amount of talent in Canada right now is limitless. We all know about The Arcade Fire by now, so I can think of no better Canadian talent to discuss than Feist. And even though she no longer calls Canada home, we can still consider her ours.

If I had to sum up Feist's music in one word it would be 'brilliant.' Honestly, her soft raspy vocals are as good as it comes. It is perfection. And Feist has a strong musical background. She played in several bands including Placebo and By Divine Right. Not to mention, and another indication of the Great White North's strong music scene, Canadian super group Broken Social Scene. In 1999, Feist began recording her solo albums, the first of which (called Monarch) is no longer being pressed. Her second album, Let It Die, is the one that shot her into the mainstream. If you don't have this album or have never listened to Feist before, this is the one that I would pick up first. It is a great collection of work. This year she released her third solo album called The Reminder. In it, Feist picks up just where she left off. The songs are a little more poppy but again vocally, no one compares.

And Canada knows it because 'The Reminder' is on the shortlist for 2007's Polaris Music Prize. This is Canada's equivalent to the Mercury Music Prize in the UK. Feist is up against such artists as The Dears, The Arcade Fire, Junior Boys and Joel Plaskett Emergency.

Interesting tidbit: She once shared an apartment in Toronto with electro-punk artist, Peaches. Seriously. I can't make this stuff up.

Download[mp3]: Feist - My Moon, My Man
MySpace: Feist
Feist: Official Webpage

Buy The Reminder

The Horrors

2007-09-13T16:42:00.000-04:00

The Horrors are indie goth rock at its finest. I don't know what it is about this band but I think their pretty great. Perhaps its the power-driven organs. Maybe its the crashy guitars. Or maybe its just their hair. No, it's definitely not the hair. Actually, that's the only bit of criticism I have for them today because their music and sense of fashion just go hand in hand. Not that it matters at all but can you really listen to The Horrors and imagine them looking any different than they do.

Anyways, enough of that. The Horrors are definitely the most unique export coming from the UK right now. Their debut album, Strange House, was released in March 2007 with 'Sheena is a Parasite' as the first single. As with all songs by The Horrors, 'Sheena Is a Parasite' contains a dominant organ sound partnered with some distorted-scratchy guitars. Other highlights are 'She Is the New Thing,''Count in Fives' and 'Thunderclaps.'

The Horrors are my guilty pleasure right now. You'll either love them or hate them. But fall is quickly approaching. So, if anything, The Horrors will get you in the mood for Halloween.

Download [mp3]: The Horrors - Sheena Is a Parasite

MySpace: The Horrors

The Horrors: Official Webpage

Buy Strange House

New Babyshambles Tune

2007-09-12T15:00:00.000-04:00

Here's a new song off of Babyshambles' forthcoming album, Shotter's Nation. It seems like quite a few songs from this album are slowly being leaked. Anyways, this one's called 'The Lost Art of Murder' and it is the closing track off Shotter's Nation. It has a folk-acoustic sound to it, which shouldn't be surprising since it features Bert Jansch. It's raw. It's Babyshambles. It's good.

What do you think of the cover art? Kinda weird, right?

Download (mp3): Babyshambles - The Lost Art of Murder

Buy Shotter's Nation

August 2007: Listen Now!

2007-09-11T15:42:00.000-04:00

Milburn - What Will You Do (When the Money Goes)
This is a great song. That's all I'm going to say about it. Listen now!
Download (mp3): Milburn - What Will You Do (When the Money Goes)
Buy These Are The Facts

Kate Nash - Foundations
Kate Nash is a promising singer-songwriter, who has garnered a lot of buzz and developed quite a following in the UK over recent months. Actually, that's a bit of an understatement. Her debut album, Made of Bricks went to #1 the first week it was released and Nash has been making her way around many of the summer festivals. 'Foundations' is her biggest hit thus far and is definitely worth a listen. So, listen now!

Download (mp3): Kate Nash - Foundations

Buy Made of Bricks

Jose Gonzalez - Down the Line

Surprisingly, this is the first song I have ever heard by Swedish singer-songwriter Jose Gonzalez. 'Down the Line' is the first single off Gonzalez's second album In Our Nature. The guitars in this song are soft and melodic. These elements, together with Gonzalez's vocals, creates a dreamy mood which is great for the end of summer/fall weather. Listen now!
Download (mp3): Jose Gonzalez - Down the Line

Buy In Our Nature

Band of Horses - Marry Song

This song is off Band of Horses' new album, Cease To Begin, which is released on October 9, 2007. I've heard a number of other songs off this upcoming release and if all is right in the world, it will be a big hit for them. 'Marry Song' is sinfully catchy. so prepare to sing along. Listen now!
Download (mp3) - Band of Horses - Marry Song

Buy Cease To Begin

The Perisher - My Own

I hate to pick one song off of The Perishers' album Victorious. This is because the entire album is really, really good. Honestly, the only reason why I picked 'My Own' over the others is because, at the moment, I'm in the middle of listening to album and the song just finished playing. Pick this album up. You will not regret it. Listen now!

Download (mp3): The Perishers - My Own

Buy Victorious

The Cribs - Men's Needs, Women's Needs, Whatever

2007-09-10T14:59:00.000-04:00

Keep it in the family. That seems to be the philosophy of West Yorkshire's, The Cribs. The band, which consists of three brothers, released their third album this year entitled 'Men's Needs, Women's Needs, Whatever.' I have been listening to the single 'Our Bovine Public' for a while now but I just recently got a hold of the entire album. I'm not sure why it took so long but I am really glad that I finally took the time to listen to this record. And now that I have, I feel obligated to add that they are probably one of the most underrated bands coming out of the UK.

Their songs are fantastic but if blazing guitars, authoritative drumbeats and catchy melodies aren't incentives enough, you should know that the album was produced by Franz Ferdinand's own. Alex Kapranos. The Cribs actually toured North America with Franz in 2006 (as well as Death Cab for Cutie). 'Our Bovine Public' is definitely the stand out track but 'Men's Needs' and 'Moving Pictures' are also right up there.

The Cribs are touring all across Europe this fall and even make their way to Japan in October. Check out their MySpace page for a list of dates.

Download (mp3): The Cribs - Our Bovine Public
MySpace: The Cribs
The Cribs: Official Webpage

Buy Men's Needs, Women's Needs, Whatever

Joe Lean and the Jing Jang Jong - The Next Big Thing?

2007-09-07T15:03:00.000-04:00

Well the NME seem to think so and why not? The songs that I've heard, so far, have been pretty good. And they have a memorable name. Try saying it three times really quickly.

I don't know too much about this group yet, but I'm sure we'll be hearing a lot about them in the near future. There are also some obvious comparisons. But I'm not going to make them here. It's good music and that's all that matters.

FYI - 'Joe Lean' (which I'm pretty sure is a stage name) was the drummer for The Pipettes. I love the Pipettes. So should you! By the way, The Pipettes are releasing their debut album in Canada on October 2, 2007. I will take every opportunity to remind you of this in the weeks to come. Shamelessly. But I don't care.

Download (mp3): Joe Lean and the Jing Jang Jong - Lucio Starts Fires
MySpace: Joe Lean and the Jing Jang Jong

The Pigeon Detectives

2007-09-06T15:20:00.000-04:00

I have to admit, I have yet to listen to The Pigeon Detectives' debut album Wait For Me in its entirety. However, I have loved every song that I've heard from it so far. This is usually a clear indication that I will, at least, like most songs from an album. So, I feel pretty safe recommending their music to you.

I first heard about the Pigeon Detectives when they supported the Kaiser Chiefs, who are fans of the group. The Kaisers talked them up pretty well and had nothing but good things to say about them. Shortly after, I heard their single 'Romantic Type' on Zane Lowe's show on BBC Radio 1. I liked what I heard but I couldn't find it anywhere to download. It seemed that most people were just starting to discover the Pigeon Detectives. But the band was just getting started. 'Romantic Type' was released as their next single (after 'I Found Out') and it reached #19 on the UK charts. Their next two singles 'I'm Not Sorry' and 'Take Her Back' have both cracked the top 20 since. Oh yeah, Wait For Me debuted at #3 in the UK . Just goes to show you what hard work and extensive touring can do for a band.

The Pigeon Detectives are pretty much touring the UK for the rest of the year. For a list of dated check out their MySpace page but most shows seem to be sold out.

No word on a North American release of Wait For Me. Although there may be limited imported copies lurking around in stores.

Download (mp3): The Pigeon Detectives - Romantic Type

MySpace: The Pigeon Detectives

The Pigeon Detectives: Official Webpage

Buy Wait For Me

And the Mercury Prize Goes To....

2007-09-05T11:43:00.000-04:00

...KLAXONS

I have to admit, I'm incredibly shocked. Not because I think they don't deserve it. On the contrary, I think they are very deserving. Klaxons would be my second choice after Arctic Monkeys. But I, like everyone else, pretty much thought that Amy Winehouse was going to be the obvious winner. While I think that Amy Winehouse would have also been a worthy choice, I am very happy that The Klaxons won.

Their album, Myths of the Near Future, is one of my favourites of the year. Put on this record and Klaxons will make you want to dance. It's psychedelic-electronic-dance pop-guitar-based goodness. All of those elements, along with some great harmonizing, is why Klaxons are this year's Mercury Prize winners. Songs like 'Isle of Her' and 'Two Receivers' should not be missed. And if you haven't heard their first single 'Golden Skans' yet, what are you waiting for?

So put on Klaxons' Myths of the Near Future, turn up the volume, and enjoy!

North American Tour Dates (for more dates check out their MySpace page)

23/09/07 Boston, MA @ Paradise Rock Club

24/09/07 New York, NY @ Madison Square Garden

26/09/07 Los Angeles, CA @ Henry Fonda Theatre

28/09/07 San Francisco, CA @ The Fillmore

30/09/07 Seattle, WA @ The Showbox

01/10/07 Vancouver, BC @ Commodore Ballroom

04/10/07 Boulder, CO @ Fox Theatre

05/10/07 Lawrence, KS @ The Bottleneck

06/10/07 Chicago, IL @ Vic Theatre

08/10/07 Washington DC @ 9.30 Club

09/10/07 Philadelphia, PA @ The Fillmore at Theatre of Living Arts

10/10/07 Toronto, ON @ The Opera House

12/10/07 New York, NY @ Webster Hall

Download (mp3): Klaxons - Golden Skans

MySpace: Klaxons

Klaxons: Official Webpage

Buy Myths of the Near Future

Album of the Month: Athlete - Beyond the Neighbourhood

2007-09-04T14:47:00.000-04:00

Athlete are releasing their third studio album this month called Beyond the Neighbourhood. It is actually out today in the UK but sadly, we in North America have to wait until September 25th to get our hands on it. Oh well, its only a couple of weeks away.

Anyways, the band's previous album, Tourist, went to #1 in the UK. So, how do a couple of boys from Deptford, London respond to such success. By putting out an 'organically experimental' album, of course! I'm actually not to sure what I mean by that but this album is amazing nonetheless. And it will only take one listen to fall in love with it and also realize that its quite a different sound for Athlete. You won't be able to put your finger on exactly what is different but you will recognize the change. Yet, despite being experimental, the album manages to remain distinctively Athlete.

Beyond the Neighbourhood opens with the stellar instrumental-electronic track entitled 'In Between 2 States,' which acts as a lead-in to their catchy first single 'Hurricane.' Other standout tracks are 'Flying Over Bus Stops,' 'Best Not to Think About It' and 'Airport Disco.' But make sure you don't skip any songs on Beyond the Neighbourhood. All are single-worthy and therefore, there are no filler tracks. Once again, it is time to embrace Athlete.

Tracklisting

1. In Between 2 States – 2:31
2. Hurricane – 3:13
3. Tokyo – 3:32
4. Airport Disco – 4:58
5. It's Not Your Fault – 4:18
6. The Outsiders" – 5:21
7. Flying Over Bus Stops – 4:28
8. Second Hand Stores - 5:13
9. In The Library – 3:04
10. Best Not To Think About It – 4:11
11. This Is What I Sound Like - 4:35

Download (mp3): Athlete - Hurricane
MySpace:Athlete
Athlete: Official Web Site

Buy Beyond the Neighbourhood

Band of Horses - Is There A Ghost

2007-08-31T15:37:00.001-04:00

There has always been something about the Seattle music scene. Nirvana, Soundgarden, anyone? The city is still producing some good bands and Band of Horses are one of them. They release their follow-up to 2006's Everything All the Time called Cease to Begin on October 9, 2007 on the Sub Pop label (home of the Postal Service and the Shins).

I just got a hold of their first single 'Is There a Ghost' and am very impressed. Its a stellar track. Absolutely fantastic. The song is available for download on their MySpace page, so head over there to get a hold of it while it is still available.

MySpace: Band of Horse

Band of Horses: Official Site

The Pipettes Announce North American Album Release + Tour Dates

2007-08-30T15:26:00.000-04:00

The Pipettes have announced the North American release date of their debut album We Are the Pipettes. It was originally suppose to be stores this week but we can now expect the album on October 2, 2007 on the Cherrytree/Interscope label. On a side note, the cover for the US release is different than the UK. I'm not sure why, the other one was ten times better. Oh well.

I'm pretty excited about this album and I will be writing a lot about it (and the band) in the weeks to come but if you're a Pipette fan living in North America, such as me, you've probably already found a way of getting your hands on a copy or downloaded the 2006 UK release. So you might not be extremely psyched. But what if I told you that there are two new tracks on their US debut? Well there are! The songs are entitled 'Catch and Boogie' and 'Baby, Just Be Yourself .' Both were being streamed on the band's MySpace page. However, the songs seem to have mysteriously disappeared. Not sure why but both are provided below.

The Pipettes will also be touring North America in October and the beginning of November. I've never seen them play but most show reviews that I've read have been positive and I've heard that they are a live band more than anything and should therefore not be missed. So, if their coming to your city make sure to check them out.

The Pipettes North American Tour

02/10/07 Chicago, IL@ Park West

03/10/07 Detroit, MI@ Magic Stick

04/10/07 Cleveland, OH@ Beachland Tavern

05/10/07 Toronto, ON@ Opera House

06/10/07 Montreal, QC@ Petit Campus

08/10/07 New York, NY@ The Fillmore @ Irving Plaza

09/10/07 Boston, MA@ Paradise Rock Club

10/10/07 Washington, DC@ 9.30 Club

11/10/07 Philadelphia, PA@ First Unitarian Church

13/10/07 Pittsburgh, PA@ TBC

15/10/07 Nashville, TN@ Exit/In

16/10/07 Atlanta, GA@ Vinyl

17/10/07 Birmingham, AL@ WorkPlay Theater

18/10/07 New Orleans, LA@ The Parish @ House of Blues

19/10/07 Austin, TX@ The Parish

20/10/07 San Antonio, TX@ TBC

21/10/07 Dallas, TX - Cambridge Room @ House of Blues

23/10/07 Denver, CO@ Bluebird Theatre

25/10/07 Los Angeles, CA@ Avalon

29/10/07 San Francisco, CA@ Bimbo's 365 Club

31/10/07 Portland, OR@ Wonder Ballroom

01/11/07 Seattle, WA@ Crocodile Cafe

02/11/07 Vancouver, BC@ TBC

Download (mp3): The Pipettes - Catch and Boogie

Download (mp3): The Pipettes - Just Be Yourself, Baby

MySpace: The Pipettes

The Pipettes: Official Site

Kanye West ft. Chris Martin - Homecoming

2007-08-30T12:27:00.000-04:00

Here's a new song off of Kanye West's upcoming album entitled Graduation. Its called 'Homecoming' and it features Chris Martin from Coldplay. I have to say (and I am in no way ashamed to admit) that Coldplay is one of my favourite bands. I've loved them since Parachutes, have bought/own their entire catalogue and have seen them three times in concert. However, I wasn't fond of the idea of Chris collaborating with Kanye West or any other artist for that matter.

That said, I actually like the song. For Coldplay fans, the song will at least kill some time until the band releases the follow-up to 2005's X & Y.

Download (mp3) - Kanye West ft. Chris Martin - Homecoming

Hard-Fi - Once Upon A Time In The West

2007-08-29T16:00:00.000-04:00

Back in 2005 a little band from Staines, UK released one of the catchiest albums of the year called Stars of CCTV. That band was Hard-Fi and they aren't so little anymore. Stars of CCTV sold over a million copies and went to #1 in the UK. In the next two years the band played two huge shows opening for Green Day at Milton Keynes Bowl, they played five sold out shows at the Brixton Academy (they are one of only a few bands to do so) and were nominated for two Brit Awards. But wait, there's more! Hard-Fi was also nominated for the coveted Mercury Music Prize. They lost to Antony and the Johnsons but hey, there can only be one winner.

Anyways, the band is back and are getting ready to put out their sophomore album, Once Upon A Time In The West on September 3, 2007 and September 18th in North America. Their first single, 'Suburban Knights', has been on UK radio for a while now and it shouldn't disappoint any Hard-Fi fan. It's catchy, about suburban life (hence the title) and pretty much sticks to their formula. However, I just recently listened to the entire album and I have to say Hard-Fi has really grown as a band. It's a lot darker than their previous stuff and definitely more mature.

At the moment you can listen to the new album in its entirety on the band's MySpace page. However, you should hurry as the preview is expected to last for only 24 hours.

Hard-Fi UK Tour Dates
31/08/07 Portsmouth@ Southsea Pier
01/09/07 Birmingham@ Irish Centre
03/09/07 Glasgow@ ABC
06/09/07 London@ Hippodrome
07/09/07 Coventry@ Coliseum
08/09/07 Bristol@ Trinity
09/09/07 Cardiff@ Cardiff University
10/09/07 Worthing@ Pavillion

Download (mp3): Suburban Knights
MySpace: Hard-Fi
Hard-Fi: Official Webpage

Pre-Order Once Upon A Time In The West

The Cinematics

2007-08-28T14:59:00.000-04:00

So there was this band that I was obsessed with in March called The Cinematics. They are a Scottish band from Glasgow (a lot of great bands seem to be from Scotland lately, is there something in the water?). Anyways, I came across their music by chance, which seems to happen to me pretty often. I knew absolutely nothing about them but their name happened to appear on my computer screen, so I decided to give them a listen. I downloaded two songs, 'Chase' and 'Break' and I instantly loved what I heard. Then I bought their album entitled 'A Strange Education' and loved them even more. Honestly, I couldn't get enough this album and it will definitely be on my Best Of lists at the end of the year. Think of The Cinematics as a more toned down Editors. This is not a bad thing by any means. Their songs are catchy, have great hooks and are very melodic. They can even write anthemic rock songs such as the ridiculously good tracks 'A Strange Education' and 'Keep Forgetting.'

The band has toured with such bands as Snow Patrol, Editors and The Bravery. They will be playing a couple of dates in the U.S. and Europe. For those of you going to the Virgin Festival in Toronto, the band will be making an appearance, so make sure you check them out. I promise that you will not regret it.

30/08/07 Orlando, Florida@ University of Central Florida

31/08/07 Tallahassee, Florida@ Club Downunder, Florida State University

1/09/07 Atlanta, Georgia@ The Earl

2/09/07 Chapel Hill, North Carolina@ Local 506

3/09/07 Washington, Washington D.C.@ Rock n Roll Hotel

4/09/07 New York, New York@ Bowery Ballroom

5/09/07 Cambridge@ TT The Bear

7/09/07 Chicago, Illinois@ Hideout Block Party

8/09/07 Athens, Ohio@ Baker Theater at Ohio University

9/09/07 Toronto, Ontario@ Virgin Music Festival at Toronto Island Park

Download (mp3) : Break

MySpace: The Cinematics

The Cinematics: Official Webpage

Purchase A Strange Education

Festivals 2007: Carling Weekend: Reading and Leed

2007-08-23T16:49:00.000-04:00

The Carling Weekend: Reading and Leeds festival is happening this weekend in, where else, but Reading and Leeds. The line-up for this festival is ridiculously good. I can only dream about having a festival of this stature in Canada. Sure we now have the Virgin Music Festival. And yes, the line-up this year is fantastic. But check out the bands playing Reading and Leeds and you will be instantly jealous.

The main stage acts alone includes the likes of :

Razorlight, Kings of Leon, Interpol, Jimmy Eat World, Red Hot Chili Peppers, The Arcade Fire, Bloc Party, The Shins, The Smashing Pumpkins, Nine Inch Nails and Billy Talent.

Other bands.artists worth checking out are:

Klaxons, Peter Bjorn and John, Kate Nash, Cold War Kids, The Pipettes (<- Love Them!!!), The Horrors, Maximo Park, Hot Hot Heat, The Dead 60s, , We Are Scientists and the Pigeon Detectives.

Anyways, the NME is going to be covering the festival all weekend as well as the BBC. Actually, you should head over to the BBC webpage because they are going to have tons of interviews, podcasts and video coverage over the next three days.

BBC - Reading and Leeds

NME

On the Road: COLD WAR KIDS

2007-08-23T14:22:00.000-04:00

Cold War Kids are hitting the road beginning in September and will tour all the way through mid-December. They begin by opening shows for the White Stripes. Here are some dates:

09/13/07 Albuquerque, NM @ Kiva Auditorium
09/16/07 Austin, TX @ Stubb's BBQ
09/18/07 Chula Vista, CA @ Coors Amphitheatre
09/19/07 Inglewood, CA @ The Forum
09/21/07 Berkeley, CA @ Greek Theatre
09/24/07 Anchorage, AK @ George Sullivan Sports Arena
09/26/07 Seattle, WA @ Paramount Theatre
09/27/07 Seattle, WA @ Paramount Theatre
09/28/07 Nampa, ID @ The Idaho Center
09/29/07 Salt Lake City, UT @ The E Center of West Valley
09/30/07 Jackson Hole, WY @ Snow King Convention Center
10/02/07 Rapid City, SD @ Rushmore Plaza Civic Ctr Arena
10/03/07 Fargo, ND @ Fargo Civic Auditorium
10/04/07 Lincoln, NE @ Pershing Auditorium
10/06/07 Chicago, IL @ Aragon Ballroom
10/07/07 Chicago, IL @ Aragon Ballroom

The group then headline their own tour with the following dates:

11/17/07 San Francisco, CA @ Warfield Theatre
11/23/07 Los Angeles, CA @ Wiltern Theatre
11/27/07 Washington, DC @ 9:30 Club
11/28/07 Washington, DC @ 9:30 Club
11/29/07 Philadelphia, PA @ Theatre of the Living Arts
11/30/07 New York, NY @ Webster Hall
12/01/07 New York, NY @ Webster Hall
12/04/07 Boston, MA @ The Roxy
12/11/07 Boulder, CO @ Boulder Theater

No Toronto date to announce.

For anyone heading over to the Carling Weekend: Reading and Leeds Festival, the band play Leeds on Friday and Reading on Sunday both on the NME/BBC1 stage.

Download (mp3): Hang Me Up to Dry
MySpace: Cold War Kids
Cold War Kids: Official Webpage

Buy Robbers and Cowards

Rilo Kiley - Under the Blacklight

2007-08-22T14:57:00.000-04:00

'Under the Blacklight' is the new offering from LA indie band Rilo Kiley. The album is the first release since members, Jenny Lewis and Blake Sennet, released solo projects (Lewis with 'Rabbit Fur Coat' and Sennet with 'Sun. Sun, Sun' with The Elected). In fact, it has been a solid three years since the band released More Adventurous, gained critical acclaim and opened some dates on Coldplay's North American Twisted Logic tour back in 2005. Taking time off to pursue solo projects can be upsetting to fans, especially if it turns out to be a flop (not here mind you). But the time away from each other seems to have paid off.

Rilo Kiley is back with a fresh new sound. Now. I know that hearing someone say that one of your favourite bands has a 'new sound', has the tendency to make some music fans nervous, while critics will proceed to sing the praises of the group. But I am happy to report that in Rilo Kiley's case, the critics have it right.

'Under the Blacklight' is a good album. In fact, I was pleasantly surprised at how greay it really is. The band released 'The Moneymaker' as their first single. The song is a great departure from any Rilo Kiley song I have ever heard and I think it's quite different from the other songs on the album. Its one of those songs that Rilo fans will either love or hate. Personally I think it's a great song but I'm thrilled that the group is set to release 'The Silver Lining' as their second single. I heard the first 30 seconds of this song and knew that I loved it and that never happens to me. It has a cool bluesy-country-alt-rock vibe to it. Another song that is quickily becoming a favourite of mine and is worth checking out is called 'Dreamworld.' On it, Sennet takes the role of lead vocalist, while Lewis sings back-up.

The band are currently playing some dates in Europe and then begin their North American tour in September. Here are some select dates (visit their MySpace page for a full list of dates):

Sept. 6, 2007: San Francisco - The Warfield

Sept. 7, 2007: Portland, Oregon - Crystal Ballroom

Sept. 15, 2007: Chicago, Illinois - Riviera Theater

Sept. 18, 2007: Toronto, Ontario - Phoenix Theater
Sept. 19, 2007: Montreal, Quebec - La Tulipe

Sept. 21, 2007: Boston, Mass. - Avalon

Download (mp3): The Silver Lining
MySpace: Rilo Kiley
Rilo Kiley: Official Website

Buy Under the Blacklight

M.I.A. - Kala

2007-08-21T16:29:00.000-04:00

The much anticipated second studio album from Mathangi 'Maya' Arulpragasam, also known as M.I.A., is released today. Kala (named after her mother) is the follow-up to 2005's hugely successful Arular (named after her father) for which she was nominated for the prestigious Mercury Music Prize in the UK.

There is really no way to categorize M.I.A's music. It doesn't fit under any specific genre. It everything from hip-hop to electro-pop to worldbeat to bhangra to ragga to....the list can go on and on. And Kala definitely touches on all of these elements and more. The album even uses samples from classic bands such as The Clash, New Order and The Pixies. The multi-talented rapper-producer-singer-songwriter and visual artist debuted Kala's first single 'Boyz' back in April 2007. It's a great track that contains soaring synths and a killer beat. Another song that has a lot of people talking is 'Jimmy' which has a bit of a disco-pop feel to it. And for good reason. The song samples a classic Bollywood disco hit called 'Jimmy Jimmy Aja.'

Kala, as a whole, is a great album. It deserves to be listened to from start to finish as it exemplifies great music ideas and artistic ability that seems to be lacking in music today. And with that, lets make one thing clear: there is no one in music presently doing what M.I.A. is doing. If anything, you should at least appreciate her uniqueness.

Kala will surely be on many 'Best of...' lists at the end of the year. And rightfully so.

Download (mp3): Jimmy

MySpace: M.I.A.

M.I.A.: Official Website

Thirteen Senses: Not Just Another Piano-Driven Band

2007-08-20T16:42:00.000-04:00

Thirteen Senses are a band from Cornwall, UK. In April 2007 they released their follow-up to 2004's 'The Invitation' entitled 'Contact'. While the band has had some success I really don't feel as if they have been given their fair chance. It seems very easy for some to write them off as just another Coldplay rip-off band and to never actually give their music a chance. But this would be a mistake. Most importantly because you'd be missing out on some really great music. Don't think for a second that Thirteen Senses is a second-rate Keane who write mediocre songs. This couldn't be further from the truth.

All 11 tracks off Thirteen Senses' latest CD 'Contact' are perfectly and beautifully crafted. There are no fillers here. The album's open, also called 'Contact' was released as the first single and should leave no doubt in your mind that Thirteen Senses have some great music in them. Also check out the singles 'All the Love in Your Hands' and 'Follow Me' if you need more proof. And they offer more than just upbeat piano-driven tunes. Case in point, the closing song off 'Contact' called 'Ones and Zeros.' Its dark and haunting and will leave you wanting more.

'Contact' has been available in the UK for a while now but for some reason I can't seem to find a release date for North America. However, US fans can download it off iTunes. Canadian fans, you are out of luck as it does not appear to be available on iTunes Canada. However, I will be sure to let you know the moment it is.

Download (mp3): Contact

Thirteen Senses: Official Web Site

MySpace: Thirteen Senses

The Perishers - Free Download

2007-08-19T21:28:00.000-04:00

Swedish band The Perishers are offering a free download of their new single 'Carefree' on their official website. (Just go to their official website and click on 'Download') The group just celebrated the release of their album entitled 'Vitorious', the follow-up to 2005's Let There Be Morning (2003 outisde of North America) on July 30, 2007. Both albums are worth checking out. While it may be tempting to categorize them as just another guitar-based band, please don't. The Perishers have been gaining momentum for a few years now and are quite different from the likes of, say Snow Patrol. The melodies are subtle but this doesn't stop songs from getting stuck in your head. Listen to 'Carefree' or even a song like 'Sway ' off Let There Be Morning and you'll know what I mean.

Here is one of my favourite Perishers songs called 'Weekends.' It pretty much sums up weekly life in general.

Download (mp3): Weekends

MySpace: The Perishers

The Perishers: Official Website

New Babyshambles Song

2007-08-17T12:43:00.000-04:00

Terrific new tune by Pete Doherty and Co. called 'Delivery.' Its off their forthcoming album Shotter's Nation to be released on October 1, 2007.

You can also download a demo of this song as well as others on the band's MySpace page.

Download[mp3]:Delivery (radio rip)
MySpace: Babyshambles

Idlewild: Make Another World

2007-08-16T21:18:00.000-04:00

Idlewild is one of those bands that I came across by chance. Actually its pretty embarassing. I opened up iTunes one morning and a promotion for their latest album 'Make Another World' came up. Anyways, I thought it was interesting that the band had a similar name with that movie (you know, the one with the guys from OutKast). I haven't seen the movie (and probably never will) but this was enough for me to sample their single 'No Emotion', which reached #36 on the Uk Singles Chart. I'm glad I did. The 30 second clip was enough for me to download the song and shortly after, buy the album.

I was also surprised to realize how late I was at discovering Idlewild's music. The Scotish band formed all the way back in 1995 and have released a total of 6 albums. Now I realize that many of Idlewild's fans have been wavering on the groups previous releases before 'Make Another World.' But if there is any time to give this band another chance, it is definitely right now. 'Make Another World' is a brilliant album. I simply cannot get enough of it. And neither will you if you give it a chance. Trust me. The song 'No Emotion'

As a side note: the band are releasing a Best Of Compilation entiltled Scotish Fiction on October 1, 2007. So if you like what you hear be sure to pick it up.

Favourite Song: Once in a Life
Download (mp3): No Emotion

MySpace: Idlewild

Mew - A Dreamy Space Pop Band?

2007-08-15T17:07:00.000-04:00

That's the caption under the band's official webpage when looking them up using Yahoo as your search engine. But don't let that deter you. Mew write terrific indie pop songs. The band themselves describe their music as pretentious art rock but I like to consider them as more of an upbeat Death Cab for Cutie (please excuse the use of comparisons, I hate it too). The Denmark-based band released their album 'And the Glass Handed Kites' in the US in July of 2006 and have steadily been gaining steam ever since. However, Mew are not new to the music scene. They formed back in 1995 and have released four albums since (including 'And the Glass Handed Kites'). Be sure to check out the songs 'Special' (provided below), as well as "The Zookeeper's Boy."

The band are also re-releasing 'Half the World is Watching Me' which sold all 5000 of its original printed copies back in 2000 and which has been unavailable ever since. It contains some of their most popular songs ans is a must-have for any Mew fans.

Download (mp3): Special
MySpace: Mew