I love Radiohead.
I live in Hawaii this summer.
That being said, I am here to report my frustration at the news of Radiohead's first US tour since 2004. Full Details here.
Those living in the Tennessee or Chicago area better watch out. I'm going to be out for blood.
Radiohead Official site
During my usual news rounds, I have run across the name of Gnarls Barkley too many times to ignore. So, last night, I finally took the time to research this artist whose been causing all the buzz. Turns out, it's actually two guys making the buzz. Namely, Danger Mouse and Cee-lo. Alright, alright, looks good so far. But how does the music sound? Brilliant, that's how it sounds. Mixing together their musical talents to produce something a little bit old (think Marvin Gaye-esqe), and a little bit new (beats that you can't help but feel), Gnarls Barkley certainly deserves the press and chart-topping success that they've received. They're new cd St. Elsewhere is out on May 9th, and so far, it's on constant rotation here at the scenester headquarters (a.k.a. my room). Each track is just as catchy as the last, and has been classified by my roommate (who is hard to please musically) as "fucking awesome". Check out their single "Crazy" which is out now, and buy the album on the 9th. You probably won't regret it.
Gnarls Barkley - Crazy
Gnarls Barkley Official Site
Danger Mouse Official Site
Cee-lo Official Site
Whenever I find a song that I've been searching for, especially one that has taken up many hours of possible study time, I find that I get, lets say, emotional.
Please say that I'm not the only one.
Case and Point:
-Take That - Back For Good (Pivotal point for Tim and Dawn on The Office. Watch it.)
-Yaz - Only You (I've been watching far too much of The Office.)
-Sia - Breathe Me (Ok, now I've just been watching too much TV in general)
-The Pixies - Where Is My Mind(Alright, now something different)
-Tom Vek - I Ain't Saying My Goodbyes
-Babyshambles - The Man Who Came To Stay
-Bishop Allen - Corazon
-Oasis - Who Put The Weight Of The World On My Shoulders
-New Order - Krafty
-Magic Numbers - Forever Lost
So I have this friend. He's pretty cool. He and his friends made some videos during their free-time at school. It doesn't relate to music persay, but it made me laugh a lot.
His friend does also seem to have pretty respectable tastes in music (Kaiser Chiefs, Antony and the Johnsons, The Flaming Lips, etc.)
Enjoy.
I am still in awe after tonight's events. I'll just say two things:
1) Long time no see. How is everyone? School's unfortunately been keeping me away from this little endeavor. But don't worry cause I'm back for good baby.
2) Islands are my new favorite band. Nick Diamond (guitar, keyboards, vocals, crowd manipulation) and his crew of crazy boys are phenomenal. Full story to come (I am so back logged on this page.) To whet your appetite, I'll say this: Cute boys, clever lyrics, two violins, a viola, a bass clarinet, a clarinet, an oboe, stage presence, unlimited energy, lack of fear, complicated melodies, creative use of dynamics and rhythm, matching white outfits, and catchy hooks all add up to a day (cause I saw them twice in a day bitches!) I'll not soon forget.
Oh, and did I mention that there was also a "follow-the-leader"-type finale? Or how about the near riot/drum circle/mob that formed courtesy the band after the show?
Here's Islands' video for one of their most popular songs, "Rough Gem". Take it as a sample of the insane brilliance that is Islands.
I guess that was more than 2 things. Oh well. Deal.
Islands' Official Site
(Next on the adgenda: We Are Scientists - New Jersey - Tomorrow. frick yea.)
Alright, it's about time for some Libertines news. That's right everyone, not just some Pete news, nor just some Carl news (whose new band I still need to profile. Note to self: topic for next entry - DPT), some Libertines news. Though there is no news of a reunion of any type, nor any new material, the fact that both Pete and Carl made headlines today is enough to merit Libertines status.
First off, Peter Doherty as been confirmed as a participant in the UK's Celebrity Soccer Six. Celebrity Soccer Six is tournament involving 160 celebrities in 12 teams. These teams will then compete as a precursor to the real World Cup. Though I would love to see Pete run around the field with the likes of Snow Patrol, Starsailor, Goldie Looking Chain, and (I'll be rooting for these boys) Kaiser Chiefs, I'd still be perfectly content with him on the sidelines as a manager.
When I think about it though, I feel that if he were playing, he might not be able to:
1) keep up with everyone else on the field.
2) make it through the first couple plays.
Full details at NME.com
On the Carl front, a recent statement from the Dirty Pretty Things man states that he would like to collaborate with former bandmate, Pete Doherty. He was reported to have said on the current state of Peter:
"It's just sad and I wish he would sort it out. I would really like to work with him again someday."
I think we would all like that day to come.
As soon as possible.
Please.
Full details at The Fake DIY
The Libertines - What Became of the Likely Lads
Babyshambles Official Site
Dirty Pretty Things Official Site
Real quick (cause I have to read Nietzsche. woo!) I come clean on my promise.
Cause I always do what I say.
(watch out)
To you, I present, The Cribs in "Hey Scenesters". (a partial influence on the title of this here blog)
The Cribs - Hey Scenesters (video)
Oh, and for all of you who (like me) attended the Arctic Monkeys' gig at Webster Hall last month, they were filming it for MTVU. Cool right. Check out the details at the Arctic Monkey's site, or MTVU
The video for "Oh Mandy" by The Spinto Band, initially gives the impression of a poorly constructed student film, with more than a hint of pretention. A mosaic of clips basically illustrate the lyrics of the song, then appear almost randomly in the area behind the main/larger clip of focus. However, as the video ends, the true intentions of the clips are revealed, and the viewer is left thinking both: "What a damn clever video" and "What a damn good song".
Watch it here
Oh, and once again, check out the Spinto Band (I know I've written on them in the past, but I just bought their album (Nice and Nicely Done (2005)) and just can't get them out of my head.
The Spinto Band Official Site
According to the Oxford English Dictionary, anticipation is "The action of looking forward to, expectation." To me however, the definition is Steinhardt transfer. Tomorrow is the day I was told to call in and ask my fate. The nerves are working overtime on this one. Wish me luck.
I also made my first cartoon today. I'll post it when i figure out how.
As I struggle to both edit the hundreds (94) of photos from the Cribs/Franz Ferdinand/Death Cab For Cutie concert, as well as maintain what little social contacts I do have, I'll leave you with some 'goodies' to keep you occupied. Enjoy.
First, because I was getting sick (and I like to use it for procrastination), some choice Demetri Martin (cause laughter is the best medication for anything.)
(or chocolate.)
(but I'm not giving you chocolate.)
You know it's true.
Cause Racism is always fun!
Next, I would have included the song that (in a very roundabout way) inspired the title of this here 'rant page'. But unfortunately, I cannot find a link to it anywhere, and I don't have a uploadable copy (darn you iTunes!). Oh well.
It's The Cribs' "Hey Scenester!" by the way.
And no, I still don't mean "Seamster". Stop asking. What is a seamster anyways?
Demetri Martin Official Site
The Cribs' Official Site
Voxtrot Official Site (I've been listening to them A LOT)
I've gotten a lot of complaints lately. I found the settings, and now anyone (and their mother) can leave a comment on the scenester page. Go crazy.
(I do like to hear what you think.)
It's been a while since I've posted a recommendation and the list has been growing at an almost unmanageable rate, so to you I present: Aberfeldy.
Don't let the openly graphic cover art fool you, this band is far easier to swallow. Following the likes of the Magic Numbers in the 60's sunshine music trend, Aberfeldy wins you over with angelic female background vocals, layered guitar melodies, and a synth. Hailing from Edinburgh, UK, (have you noticed a trend in my tastes yet?) this band claims to sound like "falling in love" and depending on your definition of love, might get pretty close (they bring to mind sunshine and warm summer days for me personally). Their track "Hypnotised" is constantly stuck in my head, and now that I've heard most of their first album (released in 2004), it surly won't be the only one banging around up there. If you don't trust my judgment, take into consideration the fact that they are currently signed by Babyshambles and Libertines indie label, Rough Trade (oh what I would give to work there...). Their next album is to be released in May '06, and I'll definitely be checking it out. If you like the Magic Numbers, or the 60's, or just plain feeling happy, test these guys out.
Aberfeldy - "Hypnotised"
Aberfeldy Official Site
Monkey News everyone! If you've listened to the Ricky Gervais show podcast, then I have to warn you, it's not that kind of Monkey News. (Though I do recommend the podcast very much. It is hilarity in convenient electronic form.)
I actually am going to obsess over the return of one of my favorite shows (aside from Arrested Development and The Office), Love Monkey! This show basically depicts my perfect life (minus being a man), and thus the appeal. It also stars Tom Cavanagh, and the musical director is none other than Mr. Nic Harcourt from KCRW's "Morning Becomes Eclectic"! If that isn't enough to merit television genius status, I don't know what is.
The show depicts the life of one Tom Farrell, wonder-boy A&R rep. He's got the ear, and he's got the morals for the "biz", but (of course) he has some trouble in the romance department. Love Monkey follows Tom in his fall from corporate label rep, to his true home at a small indie label, representing the music as opposed to the money.
I couldn't think of a show more perfect for music fanatics like myself. It has humor, it has music (great, great music), it gives an insight into the business, and did I mention it has great music?
VH1 decided to pick the show up recently after numerous fan demands for it's return (it was on hiatus on CBS) and tonight will show the first 3 episodes back to back. New episodes will start up on the 18th for our viewing pleasure. Tune in with me, enjoy and bask in the brilliance that is Love Monkey.
Love Monkey Official Site
Ricky Gervais Official Site
Morning Becomes Eclectic Official Site
Oh, and by the way, blogger is wierd and published a couple of my newest posts a little ways down, check it out. (Sondre Lerche review (with numerous pictures, etc) and another. woo. I almost feel your excitement)
While analyzing the shows we had attended during the week, Banu and I proclaimed that we should form a rap group. How this would work out I'm not sure, however, that wasn't the end of it. She went on to propose that we sing not only rap, but Emo-Rap. This got me thinking (as these things usually do), how exactly would that sound. In this case, we'd have a couple of options:
1) Sing gangsta (with an "a" instead of an "er") rap and dress like emo kids. (the most likely alternative considering who we are)2) Sing emo songs quick enough to become a rap
3) Rap about emo topics (black tears, sorrow, bleeding hearts, etc) (now that I think about it, it's a bit like the previous option.)
4) Use emo samples in a rap song.
5) Use rap samples in an emo song.
With the current music trend being that of crossover artists, the emo-rap craze could likely be a possibility in the near future (see past post on crossover artists). The genre would work out quite well in today's world. Many kids I know listen to mainly emo music, with rap as a close second, or visa versa. This creates an ideal audience.
The issues that then arise however are that of it's practicality. Though in the music world today, experimental artists such as DJ Danger Mouse, are creating unique sounds by mixing artists that would normally be on completely different sides of the spectrum (namely The Beatles and Jay-z on The Grey Album), these artists are usually respected in the music world. Sad to say (or am I?), but Emo is not exactly the most respectable genre out there (You have to admit that Fall Out Boy gets a lot of strife). I guess untill these aspects are worked out, the world will be deprived of Emo-rap, and must suffice with Indie/hipster-rap instead.
Princess - Miss Adventures
Princess Official Site
DJ Danger Mouse Official Site
Fall Out Boy Official Site
I have conformed to the latest trend, and I enjoyed it. I enjoyed it and now I shiver with disgust at myself. What have I done you ask, to merit such a response? I cringe just thinking about it:
I've watched Disney Channel's "High School Musical".
Amid the gasps and those fainting in shock, let me explain myself. The movie was sent to me by my enthusiastic brother alongside a number of other (more tasteful) files (including Conan O'Brian's boy band spoof: Dudz A Plenti. Come over some time and we'll chill to the sweet sweet sounds of our favorite late night personality). At first I was hesitant, however, being someone who wants a foothold in the industry, I was curious as to the origins of one of the top selling records for the past couple weeks (it's ridiculous, I know.). So now for the verdict:
The movie itself was a much needed step up for those at the Disney channel. The plot, though simple and predictable (especially for someone over the age of 13) was quaint enough to draw you in for the whole of the show. The songs were also, dare I say it, catchy. I wouldn't advise you to run out and attribute to another week of the "High School Musical Soundtrack" at the top of the Billboard list (unless you truly want to), but the show is definitely worth checking out once (for education's sake). As a phenomenon, I still don't see the reasons for it's current fame (I see even less of a reason to call it the "new Grease"), but I can see why it might appeal to viewers of (almost) all ages.
Right, that's done. Don't worry, I won't stoop to that level anymore. (or will I???)
High School Musical Official Site
Villiage Voice article on the "High School Musical" craze
As an artist, Sondre Lerche possesses a rare talent. Lerche is the only performer I have ever come across, with the ability to bridge all age and taste barriers (young, old, from rock to rap we all love Sondre). After Thursday night however, this only scratches the surface of the reasons for my love of this Norwegian boy.
The night opened up with a set by Leona Naess that both set the mood perfectly for Sondre's set, as well as winning herself a number of new fans (me included). She seemed almost like Sondre's female counterpart, while incorporating vocals reminiscent of Norah Jones. The set however, lost a bit of air towards the end, especially after the shock of the first interest grabbing song.
After a long set change, (from 3 person acoustic setting to 4 piece band) Sondre was finally up. Expectations couldn't have been higher for the 'Pop-Lounge' (as he called it) singer from Norway. Opening with a solo song (just him and a guitar), the audience was automatically silenced as his almost inhuman vocals washed over us. I am still in shock over the ability for a voice like his to come from that body. To have a singer like him in front of us was enough to bring us to the brink of tears (I'm not even joking).
Following a brief introduction from Sondre, the Faces Down band came out to really bring the noise (by noise I mean the jazz beats). After rolling through favorites like "Days that are Over" and "Modern Nature" (the crowd sang the duet part) we thought that it couldn't get any better; that is, until Sondre said that because they were on their way to LA to record their next album, and they needed some practice, they were going to play us the entire new album (before it was ever recorded mind you!). Warning us of the long night ahead of us, we braced ourselves for the wonder, and he started up.
New album verdict: Amazing! It combines all the charm and brilliance of the first two albums, with the jazzy beats of the newest cut, adding some rock into the mix. Sondre can make anything sound good (case and point, he sang a song he had written years ago titled something like "Look at the Blood" (eeemmmooo) and it still sounded like a song I'd put on repeat for hours on end) and this set was no different.
The night only got better after the encore (after playing a 2 hour straight set, they definitely deserved a break) when, with the same amount of energy as they had when they began, they played even more of our old favorites, as well as taking a couple crowd requests. (who still does that! I love him just for that!)
Sondre Lerche Highlights (aside from the entire concert):
1) "Days that are Over"
2) "Everyone's Rooting for You"
3) The entire new album
4) His jokes
5) "Lulu Vise" (because it's in his native Norwegian tongue, AND about my hometown, Honolulu, Hawaii!)
All in all, great show, one of the best I've seen (and you trust me by now right?). Definitely will buy that new record when it hits shelves, and I will also continue to play his 3 releases on repeat every morning when I wake up. If you take any advice from me (ever), take this one and go check out Sondre Lerche, you won't be disappointed (unless you hate good music. Then I'm sorry)
Sondre Lerche - "Two Way Monologue"
Sondre Lerche - "Everyone's Rooting For You"
Leona Naess Official Site
Sondre Lerche Official Site
I just saw the video for "Mirror Kisses" by The Cribs, and let me tell you something. I am in love once more. I forgot how amazing these boys were. For you enjoyment, I present, The Cribs:
The Cribs - Mirror Kisses (Video)
Today as I walked down Astor Pl. I saw a trailer embellished with the word "Caravan". That in itself doesn't sound odd, however, the fact that the word "Caravan" was small, and hundreds of them covered every inch of the trailer, was. Why would this be necessary? I am almost positive that if it were only written on the trailer once we would all get the picture. This got me thinking however, about music that uses repetition. When is enough, enough? Is there ever enough? Yes. I'm pretty sure there is.
Repetition fun?
Clap Your Hands Say Yeah - Upon This Tidal Wave Of Young Blood
The Editors - Bullets (I originally hated the band because I thought this song was too repetitive. That changed fast.)
Hillary Duff - Beat of my Heart (Warning! Bad song alert!)
Oh, and as I was listening to Lamacq Live on Radio 1, Steve Lamacq recommended a new band that he found on his first run of Myspace. They were named WinterKids, and I liked them. The first thing that sprung into my head when I heard them was: "Bloc Party-ites", but after listening to them more, I realize that they are actually what would happen if Bloc Party were much more peppy and had multi-layered vocals (one of which being a woman). I've been listening to them so much that I think I'm walking the very thin line between barely tolerable and murder victim with my roommate. They've been stuck in my head for the past two days, so check them out. (I wish they had some downloadable songs though.)
WinterKids on Myspace
Bloc Party's Official Site
I have a feeling that this blog might become a Pete Doherty gossip page. Perhaps I should just make the full switch and call it "Petes-R-Us" and plaster the background with my favorite photos of the boy (I don't know where I'd even start with that one. Too many to choose from). If it ever comes to that, find me, slap me, and then stand there shaking your head in shame. That'll be the signal that I need to stop.
Well, as this boy doesn't seem to avoid media attention for even a day now (didn't I just read about him yesterday?) I have some new news on the antics of our favorite drugged up poet. Seems as if Pete has let slip some hint as to a union between Kate Moss and himself. Personally I hope he doesn't end up marrying this girl, and I think Morrissey has it right (sorta.). Maybe I'm just being an over-protective fan-girl (Oh god, I hope not). Full details here at The Fake DIY.
I do think it's funny how he has been reacting to all the recent media attention. First violence, now an overinflated head? Really now Peter, you know better than that. Would you really say that you're the new John Lennon?
Fake DIY Official Site
So, apparently I bore witness to musical history and didn't even know it. Funny how these things work out isn't it?
Maybe my crazy music obsession does pay off? (Though not in the friends category. What is this "social life" you speak of?)
Tonight I fufilled a long time dream. No, I did not skydive. No, I did not meet Pete Doherty (But here's the latest news on my absolute favorite man. Oh Pete, what a shambles you are.). And no, I didn't finally get a job in the music industry (but we're still hoping on that one!). I did however see the Gorillaz performing Demon Days Live at the Apollo. Regarding this show, you can definitely believe the hype.
I had read about the show in a number of places during its run in Manchester, and when I found out that they were taking the act to New York, I jumped on it quicker than you can say "Had to run home from school to make the pre-sale time cause I know that if I wait for the general release I'll loose the tickets like I did the times before." In the end, everything was worth it for this show. Mix together lights, lasers, an exclusive animation, a full orchestra, numerous backup choirs, puppets, an awesome album, and Damon Albarn and you might get an idea of what Demon Days Live hits it's viewers with. The show was phenomenal. Though to be honest, I have never heard the full studio version of Demon Days, (I did really enjoy the singles, and I love Damon Albarn) I was still blown away by the performance. Everyone on stage had enough energy for the entire room (it was a good thing that the room had far more energy than was needed.) dancing to each song like it were the first. Damon also put on a good show (If you hadn't noticed, I mainly focused on him. Come on, he fronted Blur!) acting in a way that I can only describe as drunk on the music and wonder of it all (or alcohol).
Highlights:
1) Uh, being in the same room as Damon of course.
2) Feel Good Inc (amazingly performed. I literally couldn't help dancing in my seat)
3) Dennis Hopper performing the narrative piece. (I know, I was surprised too.)
Final Analysis: Amazing show. Truly phenomenal. Damon and the crew really delivered. I did think that the whole experience might have been better as a standing room show, or at least one not spread among 3 levels, but considering the situation, truly, truly top notch. I'll definitely be talking about this one for a while. Watch out!
(Oh, they were very strict about photos, and I sat on the aisle next to a guard so there are sadly no pictures...Sorry!)
Gorillaz - Dirty Harry (Live)
Gorillaz Official Site
"Paranoia, paranoia, everybody's coming to get me."
Chill out people. It's just music.
I need to stay on top of these things. At least this one isn't a full week late. Now, to Hard-Fi:
The night opened up brilliantly. I finally made it out to Brooklyn without getting lost once. In fact, I gave the directions to my companion this time around. With marble cake in hand (we made a pit stop for some sweets to fuel the night) we waited in the blue wash of the Warsaw awning for the doors to open and the night to truly begin.
The first band up (after a long wait outside, then an even longer one inside) was a band I had been curious about lately: The Comas. I had originally heard this band on a Paste Magazine music sampler given to me by my very good friend Heather. Lately, I have been going through my 10000 song library (spring cleaning) and just recently re-stumbled upon their single "The Science of Your Mind." (a happy coincidence if there ever were one). To a welcoming crowd, the band started up with none other than "The Science of Your Mind" and from the first note, we were all hooked. Weaving rough male and angelic female vocals together, The Comas create a unique sound that should push its way to the pinnacle of the indie genre. The live show itself was good, but didn't stand out as spectacular in the mind of one so overwhelmed by shows in the past month (see past posts). Talking to the band after the gig (as they tried to figure out their ride situation) I realized that they were also really nice people (sold they album to us for some loose change and some eye drops (Rachael)) and I have now made it a resolve to buy their new album as soon as possible. So go out, see them if you can, and definitely check out their album. They're sure to satisfy.
Next up was the band we had all been waiting for: Hard-Fi. In all honesty, I was a bit anxious about the quality of the show. I had heard many mixed reviews on the subject of their live show, and hoped I didn't end up attending one of their sub-par performances. Good thing I didn't. The show was phenomenal. Though awkward at times (at most times) Richard Archer possessed a stage presence that could only lead you to think one of two things:
1) This man knows how to put on a show. Their fame is truly deserved.
2) This man is on crack.
Though I don't really know the state of the man's inebriation, I can tell you that I could only think #1. All of us had high expectations for the show (can you say #1 album in the UK and double platinum record?)and in the end, Hard-Fi delivered with extra for the speculators. I really wish I wasn't dancing so much (I had my dancing shoes on and left my shame at the door) so that I could see the crowd behind me. Based on the general sway of the crowd, and the volume of those singing along, however, they were all having just as good of a time as I.
Highlights of the night:
-"Hard to Beat"
-"Stars of CCTV"
-Julie keeping the obnoxious Yorkshire carrot-top look-alikes and the large man with drinks away
-"Living for the Weekend"
-Oh, and did I mention meeting Richard Archer??? (He told me to buy a Melodica. Which he plays very well)
Final analysis: Brilliant show. Had more fun that I'd ever expect. Hard-Fi truly knows how to put on a concert.
The Comas - The Sience of Your Mind
Hard Fi - Stars of CCTV
The Comas' Official Site
Hard-Fi Official Site
So here's the dish. Due to a change in schedule, I have 2 tickets to the Josh Rouse concert on Friday. The seats are pretty nice, and I'm selling them for face value (at most). Give me an e-mail if you want a piece of this action. It's put on by Paste Magazine, so you know it's good.
Just arrived back from the Hard-Fi concert. I think Rachael put it best when describing the show (to Richard Archer no less!) as "Brilliant". I don't think I've had that much fun at a show in a while. To be honest though, getting hit in the head 3 different times with 2 beer bottles and a large man's elbow did take away from the experience.
The fact that I later found, shook hands, took a picture, chatted, and got an autograph with Hard-Fi lead singer Richard Archer (as mentioned above) however, did cancel the negative out completely.
The set was also really fantastic. Top notch boys. Truly Brilliant. Review to come. Now, sleep.
Hard-Fi - Living for the Weekend
