It's always a messy affair with Pete.

If you are able to use the Overdrive service on MTV UK, you are one of the lucky few (In the US that is. If you live in the UK then you get to see this all day every day. Why you would want to, I'm not quite sure.) who can witness the latest antics of our favorite wayward musical genius. It was reported yesterday that during a recent MTV.com interview, Pete Doherty shot a syringe full of blood at the camera. The crew was left to clean thousands of pounds worth of camera equipment before Pete and Babyshambles bandmates could be properly interviewed. I don't even know what to think of this man anymore.

Full details here:

MTV.com
MTV.com UK
NME.com

Look who's making a comeback.

True, they did say that they weren't finished making music back when Gwen Stefani decided to go solo, but I'm still surprised at the comeback of No Doubt. Talking to MTV.com, the group said:

"(We're) kind of just going in and writing here and there. Right now, it's all about the music and being as creative as possible."

Seems innocent enough. But wait! One question still ran frantically around my mind: Will Gwen Stefani be joining in on this party? The answer: Not yet. Seems as if she is going to join in on the creative process a little later, seeing as she is in the late stages of her pregnancy.

So are you excited about the new No Doubt record? Personally, I am a little skeptic and don't have high hopes. The last record was a major let down for me (I'm more of a Tragic Kingdom fan) and I won't even get started on how much I despise that Gwen Stefani album (fucking B.A.N.A.N.A.S..). We'll see...

Here's some classic tracks I still enjoy:

No Doubt - Just A Girl
No Doubt - Bathwater
No Doubt - Spiderwebs
No Doubt - Don't Speak

MTV.com
NME.com (full details of return here)
No Doubt Official Site

Grab it while it's hot!

Oh my god everyone, drop whatever you are doing RIGHT NOW and listen to this: Hanson is releasing another CD. I kid you not (check the little CD release thing on the side of this very page). On the 16th of May, those 3 infamous boys drop another record. "HELL YEA," that's all I have to say on that.

Personally, I havn't listened to any of thier albums (save some songs off thier first brilliant piece of musical genius), but they spoke at NYU this year, and if they're still releasing albums they must be sort of good right?

Alright, I'll stop being creul and sarcastic (for now) and at least give you a link to Amazon.com so you can search for it and support their cause. (I would've uploaded it here to save you both time, money, and energy, but I feel like they need your support far more than I do)

I'm back.

After one of the worst 12 hour flights of my lifetime (my seat-back would not stay in the upright position) and some of the most boring days of my lifetime (when you can't go to the beach in Hawaii, things tend to get dull), I finally make my return. (HUZZAH!)

In a post yesterday on the NME.com, it was reported that Radiohead frontman Thom Yorke has announced a solo album. Speaking to a respected fansite (yes, there are some out there) Yorke said:

"I have been itching to do something like this for ages,... It was fun and quick to do. Inevitably it is more beats & electronics. But its songs. Stanley [Donwood - Radiohead's cover artist] did the cover. Yes its a record! No its not a radiohead record. As you know the band are now touring and writing new stuff and getting to a good space."

The album, titled, The Eraser, will be put out on UK label, XL, (home to the likes of the White Stripes, Tapes and Tapes, The Raconteurs, and Be Your Own Pet) and a date for it's release is still in the works.

Full details here at the NME.com

I'm personally pretty excited. Solo albums always are issues of debate, and controversy, but I feel like this will be a pretty successful venture. Who knows what this will influence in the future? I guess only time will tell. (dun dun duh).

Radiohead Official Site
XL Label Official Site
NME.com

Gold grills, a big wig, a bloody hand, and some hot man on man action

So I went to this concert the other night. It was good. A little band called the Yeah Yeah Yeahs played, and because they are pretty much in my top 10 favorite bands (Maps was the first song I learned on the guitar) it was an awesome show. I felt truly fufilled. However, I was also impressed by one of the opening bands. And so, to you, my adoring (yeah right) readers, I present, The Black Lips.

The Black Lips originate from Atlanta, Georgia, a refreshing change from the New York, UK, Seattle, and Texas scene that has been dominating the airwaves. Featuring a classic Lo-Fi sound, catchy lyrics, and stage presence like nobody's business, these boys seem prime to take a stand against rock monotony. Sounding a bit rock, a bit punk, a bit grunge-hippie, and a bit like the Beatles, you can't help but be drawn into the often raucous and inviting sound of The Black Lips. Their love of their music is evident in their live shows and is exciting to see in a world where commercial music seems a bit too prominent. In each account I have stumbled upon, one member has walked away bloody and exhausted, too involved in their sound to worry about their own health and safety. In the show I was present for alone, the drummer continued to play half the frighteningly energetic set with his hand dripping with blood, the lead singer began making out with the guitarist (with the gold grills) in the instrumental segment of one of their songs, and the frontman played two guitar solos with his teeth (who still does that?!). I will certainly be watching these boys to see where they end up. I think you should too.

The Black Lips' Label Site
The Black Lips' Myspace

I tried to break up a fight. It was awesome.

I have a final I need to study for so I'll make this short and sweet.

The Yeah Yeah Yeahs are amazing. Their live shows are just as brilliant as everyone says they are. If you ever get a chance to see them play, do it. Between the dancing, and the staring in awe, and the singing, I was blown away by the entire experience. All in all, a very good night.

Poor Liam

In a recent publication in Q magazine, Liam Gallagher of Oasis has admitted that the Arctic Monkeys make him feel awkward. Me, being the master of awkward, find this funny. Of course, not funny in a degrading way, more like a humanizing way. It seems as if Liam finally realizes that Oasis isn't as big as they once were (though in my mind, they're always the biggest band in the world. woo Oasis!)

On Alex Turner of the Arctic Monkeys: "I like him, I do, and he is definitely a bit of a genius lyricist, but he is still a kid...He was eight when 'Definitely Maybe' came out. What the fuck am I, a 38-year-old supposed to say to that? They make me feel awkward...What bothers me right now is that we are not the biggest band in the world any more. U2, The Stones even Coldplay are bigger than us."

I love Oasis.

Full details at The Fake DIY

Q Magazine Official Site

Regret

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

Another observation. (and one that isn't rock!)

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

I'm a wimp

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

From the brilliant minds of Punahou School

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.

"Turn it off, Turn me on."

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.)

I'd tell it to the king, but I'm telling you instead.

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

Hey SCENEsters

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

Those clever Spinto guys

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

The definition of anticipation

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.

Stalling for time.

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)

Comments

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.)

I'm hypnotised.

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

I'm in love with the monkey

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)