Indies And The Underground

We're Moving......

2011-05-13T17:28:00.000-07:00

After about a week of trying keep up frest content here at the regular blogspot and at Truth About Music's Indies and The Underground page, it's become exhaustingly obvious to me that posting in one place would much better use of my time, energy and sanity:). So from now on I'll be posting exclusively over at Truth About Music.

Not to worry, as I stated last week in the "Expanding" post the style and content of Indies And The Underground will remain the same...only the location has changed. I hope you'll follow the blog to its new online home. Click HERE to check out the page.

Complete B.O.M.B. Fest Lineup Revealed

2011-05-11T10:49:00.000-07:00

The full artist lineup for the third annual B.O.M.B. Fest has been announced. Set to take place on May 28 and 29 at the Comcast Theatre in Hartford, CT, the bill includes superstar acts like Weezer, Snoop Dogg, George Clinton and Wiz Khalifa, as well as indie acts like The Cool Kids, Against Me! and The New Pornographers.

All proceeds from this year's festival will go towards music scholarships, music enrichment and education programs and community support and outreach. Go to www.bombfest.com, for more information, and view the full festival lineup below.

SATURDAY, May 28
Weezer, Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros, George Clinton & Parliament/Funkadelic, Best Coast, HEALTH, Titus Andronicus, RJD2, Wavves, EOTO, The Cool Kids, Dan Deacon, The Felice Brothers, ESKMO, Real Estate, Woods, Free Energy, Roots of Creation, David Wax Museum, Turbo Fruits, Walk the Moon, Sun Hotel, The Manchurians, The Frank Critelli Band, The Rebel Yell, Emjae, EULA, Ovlov, Forget Paris, Lobster Quadrille, The Goonies, Swear & Shake, Dirty Dishes, Distoria

SUNDAY, May 29
Snoop Dogg, Wiz Khalifa, Big Freedia, Coheed and Cambria, Against Me!, Shpongle presents The Shpongletron Experience, Neon Trees, The New Pornographers, State Radio, Dam-Funk, Dum Dum Girls, Man Man, Holy F••k, Portugal. The Man, Freelance Whales, Quintron and Miss Pussycat, Daedelus, 12th Planet, Nosaj Thing, The Files & Fires, Toubab Krewe, Urban Sun, Christine Ohlman & Rebel Montez, Fake Babies, 20,000 Leagues Under The Sea, The Hood Internet, The Backyard Committee, Cosmic Dust Bunnies, OConn, Super Nice Bros, Wry, Raina Mullen, Chalk Talk, Small Black, River City Extension, The Revivalists

Artist Profile: Big Black Delta

2011-05-11T10:16:00.000-07:00

Electro pop act Big Black Delta began as an experiment, when LA transplant and Mellowdrone founder Jonathan Bates decided he needed a break from the band aesthetic. Buying a used laptop from friend Alessandro Cortini (Nine Inch Nails, Sonoio) and began playing with sound, twisting, bending and contorting to create a musical style not bound by gravity or any one instrument. "Give me anything, and I'll make it work. Especially if it’s stringed,"Bates says. Combine this penchant for experimentation with a love of UFO folklore and you have the otherworldly coolness that is Big Black Delta, made up of Bates and live drummers Mahsa Zargaran and Amy Wood.

Bates' ambition to stretch the boundaries of pop can be heard in sonic stunners like "Huggin' And A Kissin'." Driven by whiplash-inducing drums, atmospheric, searing electronic sounds and robotic bass, the track sounds like Depeche Mode on steroids (a very good thing in case you were wondering). "Zebra" lifts the trademark alt-rock loud-chorus-soft-verse dynamic and brings into the dance realm with fantastic results, vacillating quietly between spage-age samples and gentle harmonies and grimy, distorted synths and deep, thumping bass. Meanwhile "IFUCKINGLOVEYOU" borders on punk and hardcore, melding wall-of-sound-style choruses with a nasty bass, pummeling drums and fat blasts of what sounds like mangled brass.

Big Black Delta is currently working on a full-length debut. In the meantime, you download the group's Big Black Delta EP for free, or the aforementioned "Huggin' And A Kissin' below.

Q&A With Clara Engel

2011-05-10T12:27:00.000-07:00

Check out my interview with Clara Engel over at The Truth About Music. She's talks about her favorite artists, lyrical inspirations, early live gigs and why listening to Adele makes her want to smash things! Click HERE to read.

Chilly Gonzales To Release The First Orchestral Rap Album

2011-05-09T10:10:00.000-07:00

Chilly Gonzales has announced a new album, The Unspeakable Chilly Gonzales,which will be the world's first orchestral rap album. A follow up to his last album Ivory Tower, which yielded piano-driven rap hits "The Grudge" and "Crying" the new release is a creative progression of sorts.

Arranged by Hollywood film composer Christopher Beck and influenced by Prokofiev, Morricone and Phillip Glass, The Unspeakable Chilly Gonzales features plenty of old-school Hollywood swells, tympani rolls and French horns, as revealed by "The Unspeakable Chilly Gonzales Medley." Take a listen to the track HERE.

The Unspeakable Chilly Gonzales will be released digitally on June 7.

New Music: Danger Mouse Daniele Luppi 'Rome'

2011-05-09T09:40:00.000-07:00

Although Rome, a collaboration between producer Danger Mouse and Italian composer Daniele Luppi, isn't set to drop until next week, the entire album is streaming on NPR. The album also features collaborations with Norah Jones and Jack White. Listen HERE.

Artist Profile: The Bewitched Hands

2011-05-09T09:19:00.000-07:00

Formerly known as The Bewitched Hands On Top Of Our Heads, French psychedelic pop sextet The Bewitched Hands formed in 2005. While band members Anthonin and Benjamin act as the chief songwriters, everyone takes part in creating harmonies. The approach is evident in the band's music, as their sound is packed with multiple melody lines that often weave in and out of each other before coming together to create one big voice.

The band takes the same approach to instrumentation, with three guitarists playing different tones and percussion instruments jockeying for position within a song. While it would it seem that this everything-but-the-kitchen-sink attitude would spell disaster, tracks like "Work," "Sea" and "Hard To Cry" reveal otherwise. The Bewitched Hands full-length debut Birds And Drums, is set to be released in the U.S. on May 24. Listen to a few tracks below.

Remix Of The Week: Lady Gaga "Judas (Dub Step Remix By Andre Jetson)"

2011-05-06T17:22:00.000-07:00

While mother monster may have been channeling Mary Magdalene for her latest single, this ferocious, chaotic dub step remix by Andre Jetson makes Gaga sound like she summoned the four horsemen of the apocalypse. Listen below.

Jay-Z And Kanye West Switch Hotels To Finish 'Watch The Throne'

2011-05-06T13:25:00.000-07:00

I guess the phrase "location, location, location" not only applies in business but in superstar collaborations. According to The New York Post, the duo has switched recording spots from the swanky Mercer Hotel to the equally upscale Tribeca Grand Hotel in Manhattan.

Much of Watch The Throne's recording process has taken place in makeshift studios around the globe, from the Mercer in NYC's Soho District to Paris. According to the New York Post's source, it looks like the two recognize it's crunch time. "They were laying down tons of tracks," a witness said. "It was intense -- no Beyoncé and no booze."

Divine Revelation Or Holy Terror? Lady Gaga's "Judas " Video

2011-05-05T11:56:00.000-07:00

Unless you've been living under a rock, you know that Lady Gaga's new clip for her single "Judas" was set to premiere today on the E! Channel. Fortunately (for us anyway) it's leaked about eight hours early. Much tongue wagging has been made of the video's religious subject matter, as Gaga takes on the role of Mary Magdalene and sings of her love for the treacherous Judas.

When talking about the clip and its concept, the singer explained "Well the video, in essence, suggests that [pauses] forgiveness and betrayal are hand in hand and that... how do I say this? The video puts destiny above all things and postures that the mistakes in your life are in fact not mistakes at all, they are just part of your overarching potential and your destiny."

"I want to allow the video to speak for itself but I will say that the theme of the video and the way that I wanted to aesthetically portray the story was as a motorcycle Fellini movie where the apostles are revolutionaries in a modern-day Jerusalem," she said. "And I play Mary Magdalene leading them into the town where we meet Jesus and I will leave the rest for you to see. But it's meant more to celebrate faith than it is to challenge it."

Personally I feel that the video is good, but not great. It contains many Gaga motifs--surreal theatrics, over-the-top outfits, garish makeup, dancers (the lipstick gun gets a definite thumbs up)--but the whole product doesn't come off with a bang the way previous epics like "Paparazzi," "Bad Romance," "Telephone" or "Born This Way" did. Casting the disciples as a modern-day biker gang was a nice twist, but she should have scrapped the dance sequences and concentrated more on the overall storyline, which could have provided some great visual scenes. Perhaps the fact the video was being filmed on the same stage as Janet Jackson's "Escapade" inspired her to bust a move.

But a good Gaga video is still better than 85 to 90 percent of other music clips that are out there, so it's definitely worth watching. Maybe when the uncut version premieres later today, it'll contain some new surprises. Watch "Judas" HERE.

Versis: "Slow Down"

2011-05-05T09:54:00.000-07:00

When comes to sex, many rappers broach the subject with lurid tales of menage`a trois, endless one night stands and other assorted stories of groupie love. Versis takes a more nuanced, lyrically dexterous approach to love and sex with the track "Slow Down," from his album. iLLCANDESCENT While not denying there's some ladies "that he wouldn't mind beseeching" he's also aware of the potential consequences of thinking with the wrong head. Watch the video for song below.

Versis "Slow Down" from JeromeD.com on Vimeo.

Tori Amos To Release Classical Music-Inspired Night Of The Hunter

2011-05-05T09:32:00.000-07:00

Tori Amos' debut release for world-renowned classical music label Deutshe Grammophon Night Of The Hunter, may be one of her most ambitious yet, a modern song cycle inspired by select classical pieces spanning back 400 years.

Amos said of Night Of The Hunter, which she wrote and produced: "I have used the structure of a classical song cycle to tell an ongoing, modern story. The protagonist is a woman who finds herself in the dying embers of a relationship. In the course of one night she goes through an initiation of sorts that leads her to reinvent herself allowing the listener to follow her on a journey to explore complex musical and emotional subject matter."

She added,“One of the main themes explored on this album is the hunter and the hunted and how both exist within us.”

Amos will support the album, set for release in September, with a European and U.S. tour starting in Helsinki, Finland on September 28.

WATCH: Beyonce's New Video Teaser For "Run The World (Girls)"

2011-05-04T12:03:00.000-07:00

Beyonce has released another visual morsel from her upcoming video epic "Run The World (Girls)" for fans to salivate over. Watch the short clip below. Another B-Day seems to be upon us.....

B.O.M.B. Fest Announces Local Lineup

2011-05-04T11:45:00.000-07:00

The third annual B.O.M.B. Fest, set to take place later this month on May 28 and 29 in Hartford, CT, has announced its local artist lineup. Co-founder Frank Bombaci Sr. said shining the spotlight on budding stars is part of the mission of B.O.M.B. Fest.

"Live local music is a very focused part of the overall non-profit mission of Bring Our Music Back Inc!” Bombaci said. “There are amazing talented young musicians that need to be heard and we take pride in incorporating that mission into B.O.M.B. Fest.”

For more information about the festival, visit the official website. View the the full local talent lineup below.

Forget Paris • Heirlooms • The Frank Critelli Band • The Backyard Committee • The Guru • Fake Babies • The Manchurians • Raina Mullen • Midi & The Modern Dance • EULA • Wry • The Lobster Quadrille • OConn • Distoria • The Files and Fires • The Rebel Yell • The Goonies • Emjae • Chalk Talk • Cosmic Dust Bunnies • Ovlov • Urban Sun • Swear and Shake • sayWHAT? • Dirty Dishes

Soulive's Al Evans Unearths Crushed Velvet's Long Lost Movie Soundtrack

2011-05-04T10:41:00.000-07:00

Soulive's Alan Evans stumbled upon a long-lost musical gem, the motion picture soundtrack to The Big One by Crushed Velvet and The Velveteers, when a family friend in Buffalo, NY put him in touch with the movie's director Cleo McBride. One of NYC's premiere funk and soul bands of the late 60's and 70's, The Velveteers, led by vocalist and guitarist Crushed Velvet, were contacted by McBride, an old band mate, to record the soundtrack to the film.

A Shaft-meets James Bond style Blaxploitation flick originally set to be released in 1974, The Big One never got a chance to shine on the big screen, as the film was said to have been destroyed in a fire after it was finished. With no film to accompany the music, the soundtrack was shelved and the band broke up.Lost to obscurity, the album languished until Evans was called in to mix the original sessions and release the soundtrack through Soulive's record label Royal Family Records.

The Big One will be released as a free MP3 album download and on limited vinyl edition on May 24. View the track list and listen to the The Big One's "Main Theme" below. You can also watch a video of Alan Evans explaining the movie's history.

1. The Big One (Main Theme)
2. Thunderbird
3. Felecia's Love Theme
4. Detroit Slim
5. The Lay Down
6. Memphis Stomp
7. London Black (pts. 1,2,3)
8. Big Chase
9. The Big One (End Theme)

&amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;a href="http://crushedvelvet.bandcamp.com/album/the-big-one"&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;The Big One by Crushed Velvet &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp; The Velveteers&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;gt;

Vandaveer Drops "Dig Down Deep" Video, Kicks Off Spring Tour

2011-05-04T09:55:00.000-07:00

Washington D.C.'s own Vandaveer have released a new video for their single "Dig Down Deep." Filmed in Long Island, NY in the freezing January cold with collaborators Pierre Dejon and Just Philippot, who also shot the band's previous clip for "The Nature Of Our Kind," the video follows the band on a trek towards the sea.

The brainchild of alt-folk musician Mark Charles Heidinger, Vandaveer features a revolving cast of musicians and singers, with vocalist Rose Guerin as the sole mainstay. The results of this musical melting pot can be heard on Dig Down Deep, the group's third album released late last month. Churning rhythms, piano and steady guitar provide a melodic backdrop for stories of war, loss and love.

Vandaveer is also in midst of an extensive U.S. tour, which kicked off yesterday in Boston. Watch the "Dig Down Deep" video and view the list of tour date below.

05/03: Boston, MA @ TT The Bears #
05/04: New York, NY @ Rockwood Music Hall #
05/05: New Hope, PA @ Triumph Brewery #
05/06: Brooklyn, NY @ The Rock Shop #
05/07: Pittsburgh, PA @ Brillobox #
05/10: Cleveland, OH @ Beachland Tavern #
05/11: Chicago, IL @ Empty Bottle #
05/12: Bloomington, IN @ The Bishop #
05/13: Newport, KY @ Parlour @ The Southgate House #
05/14: Lexington, KY @ Natasha's #
05/15: Louisville, KY @ Uncle Slaytons #
05/16: Nashville, TN @ The Basement #
05/17: Winston-Salem, NC @ Krankies # *
05/18: Roanoke, VA @ Kirk Ave Music Hall #
05/19: Richmond, VA @ Sound Of Music Studios #^
05/20: Charlottesville, VA @ Twisted Branch Tea Bazaar #
05/21: Washington, DC @ IOTA #
05/22: Baltimore, MD @ The Metro Gallery #

# w/ Ferraby Lionheart
* w/ Marcus Hodges
^ w/ The Low Branches

Digitalism To Headline U.S. HARD Tour This Summer

2011-05-04T09:37:00.000-07:00

The summer of 2011 is shaping up to be a busy season for Digitalism. Along with the June 21 release of I Love You Dude, their first album in four years, the electro duo will also be headlining the HARD Summer Tour. The festival bill will include Caspa, Destructo, Jack Beats and Gesaffelstein.

This year marks the second year of the traveling music festival, which brings together electronic music's heavy hitters. The tour will hit fourteen markets across North America, including a stop in Toronto for the World Electronic Music Festival. For more information or to get tickets, visit www.hardfest.com. View the HARD tour dates below.

8/3 - SEATTLE, WA - Showbox
8/4 - PORTLAND, OR - Roseland
8/5 - SAN FRANCISCO, CA – Fox Theater
8/6 - LOS ANGELES, CA - Hard Fest
8/9 - DALLAS, TX - Granada
8/10 - AUSTIN, TX - Stubb's
8/12 - CHICAGO, IL – Congress Theater
8/13 - TORONTO, ON - World Electronic Music Festival
8/14 - MONTREAL, PQ - Metropolis
8/16 - BOSTON, MA - House of Blues
8/17 - BALTIMORE, MD - Bourbon Street
8/18 - WASHINGTON, DC - Fur Nightclub
8/19 - PHILADELPHIA, PA - Electric Factory
8/20 - NEW YORK, NY - Terminal 5

Atari Teenage Riot To Tour U.S.

2011-05-03T14:41:00.000-07:00

Reunited cyberpunks Atari Teenage Riot will invading the U.S. again for a fall tour in support of their upcoming album Is This Hyperreal?, set to drop on June 7th. With harsh, digital atomic bombs like "Activiate" and the human-trafficking tale "Blood In My Eyes" the shows are sure to be anything but laidback affairs.

Get a taste of the band's hardcore style by clicking here, and view the list of tour dates below.

9/4 Seattle, WA, Bumbershoot Festival

9/9 Los Angeles, CA, The Keyclub
9/13 Fort Lauderdale, FL, Culture Room
9/15 Atlanta, GA, The Masquerade
9/17 Washington, DC, 9:30 Club
9/24 Pittsburgh, PA, Rex Theater
9/27 Detroit, MI, The Majestic Theatre
9/28 Chicago, IL, Reggies Rock Club

Architecture In Helsinki's "Contact High" Remixed By Javelin, Drop New Album

2011-05-03T13:11:00.000-07:00

Modern pop masters Architecture In Helsinki's new album Moment Bends drops today. Recorded over two years at the band's Buckingham Palace, bandmember Cameron Bird says "Moment Bends was all about being at one with our ideas, obsessed with popular music and falling in love with our hometown. We wanted to build a record to get lost in. A record that always feels exactly what you are feeling."

To celebrate the new album, the band is sharing a remix of the track "Conact High." Reworked by Brooklyn-based cratediggers Javelin, the song becomes a sleek, lush piece of pop perfect for sunny, summertime drives. Architecture in Helsinki will be kicking off a U.S. tour in Los Angeles at the Henry Fonda Theater on June 1st. Listen to and download the "Contact High" remix and view the band's tour dates below.

Contact High-Javelin Remix by Javelin

06/01: Los Angeles, CA @ Henry Fonda Theater
06/02: San Francisco, CA @ Great American Music Hall
06/03: San Francisco, CA @ Slims
06/04: Portland, OR @ Wonder Ballroom
06/05: Vancouver, BC @ Venur
06/06: Seattle, WA @ Neumo's
06/09: Minneapolis, MN @ Varsity Theater
06/10: Chicago, IL @ Lincoln Hall
06/11: Toronto, ON @ Mod Club
06/12: Montreal, QC @ Le Tulipe
06/13: Boston, MA @ Paradise Rock Club
06/15: Brooklyn, NY @ Music Hall of Williamsburg
06/16: New York, NY @ Webster Hall
06/17: Washington, DC @ Black Cat
06/18: Philadelphia, PA @ World Cafe Live

Artist Profile: Clara Engel

2011-05-03T10:15:00.000-07:00

Canadian avant garde folk/blues artist Clara Engel combines sparse instrumentation and biting, deeply personal lyrics about love, fear, loss and betrayal to create songs that are the equivalent of an emotional tsunami.

On "Lick My Fins," she channels early PJ Harvey with vocals that are both vulnerable and erotically charged. Starting off with a slow build up of drums and strings, the track fleshes out into a seductive groove, punctuated by tense stab of horns and ghostly harmonies. Engel spins a twisted web of desire with lines like "I want to crawl back to the ocean for you/Lose my limbs and my lungs/My agility of tongue/For you."

"Trembling Dust" takes a less sensual, but no less haunting approach, with Engel bending and twisting certain words to wring all the feeling she can out of them. Singing with a tender, quiet resolve, she tells her lover to "eat the dream from my eye/Eat the kisses from a mouth ravaged/By bitterness and lying." "Accompanied By Dreams" finds her sifting through the ruins of broken promises and abandonment. You said that we would reap/A brilliant harvest from this grief, she sings over a guitar and somber cello. "But it never rained/It's autumn in our veins."

Engel's Madagascar EP is currently out on vinyl. You can download "Lick My Fins" for free below, but other tracks are pay for download. You can hear more at Clara's bandcamp page.

&amp;lt;a href="http://claraengel.bandcamp.com/track/lick-my-fins"&amp;gt;Lick My Fins by Clara Engel&amp;lt;/a&amp;gt;

&amp;lt;a href="http://claraengel.bandcamp.com/track/accompanied-by-dreams"&amp;gt;Accompanied By Dreams by Clara Engel&amp;lt;/a&amp;gt;

Indies And The Underground Is Expanding...

2011-05-03T09:10:00.000-07:00

I will now be contributing to The Truth About Music, a site created by fellow music lover and blogger Harris Decker. Profiling "what's hot, what's not, and what's next in pop music" the site features artist interviews, album reviews, video of the day and general music news. The site also features a small but very talented staff of writers who all have strong opinions about music.

While there will still be daily postings here, I will also be writing and posting things that will only appear on The Truth About Music. To visit my page, you either click on the 'Indies And The Underground' tab on the site's homepage, or type in indiesandtheunderground.com.

In addition to that, Indies and The Underground has now joined the world of Tumblr. You can view the page HERE.

New Music: Solange "Left Side Drive"

2011-05-02T10:50:00.000-07:00

Solange has dropped a previously unreleased track, "Left Side Drive." Recorded about two years ago, the song is actually a cover version of British band Boards of Canada. The singer, known for her love of all things indie, collaborated with the group for her last album, 2008's Sol-Angel And The Hadley Street Dreams, is a huge fan of the band.

"It’s completely unofficial, and was just inspired by the song which i have had a deep love affair with for years.I am a huge Boards of Canada fan, and got the chance to work with them on Sol-Angel on ‘This Bird’. Still feel honored to this day,” she said.

Listen to the song below.

'The Big 4' To Come To NYC

2011-05-02T10:16:00.000-07:00

East coast metalheads rejoice! The Big 4, otherwise known as Metallica, Anthrax, Slayer and Megadeth, have announced a New York date as part of their historic reunion concert, their second U.S. show after last month's gig in Indio, CA. The thrash legends will descend on Yankee Stadium on September 14. Tickets go on sale May 6 at Ticketmaster.

cirKus: "Beats Tripple 1"

2011-05-02T10:00:00.000-07:00

"Beats Tripple 1" is the latest offering from cirKus's new album Medicine. A family super group of sorts. the group is made up of hip-pop pioneer NehNeh Cherry, her husband Cameron McVey, their daughter Lolita Moon and friend/beat maker Karmil. Driven by a scratchy, grimy bass line, twisted vocals and dark, distorted electronic effects, the song pulsates with a tough, aggressive groove that's more punk rock anarchy than electro pop cool. Medicine drops on May 10. Until then, listen below.

Vid Pick: Vincent Minor "Late Night Show"

2011-05-02T09:35:00.000-07:00

In his surreal new video for "Late Night Show," Vincent Minor swims with an octopus, dresses up as a Union soldier and parties with a giant goldfish. Good times. The video features loads of whacked out, psychedelic animation reminiscent of Peter Gabriel's sledgehammer or Michael Jackson's "Leave Me Alone, and also includes a cameo from comedian Nadya Ginsburg. Vincent Minor's self-titled debut album is out now. Watch below.

Remix Of The Week: Mariah Carey Ft. Da Brat And Missy Elliot "Heartbreaker"

2011-04-29T17:24:00.000-07:00

Mimi recruited Da Brat and Missy Elliot to rework her 1999 hit "Heartbreaker" from light pop track (and just a little too much of a "Fantasy" retread for my taste) to bass-heavy jam. Listen below.

Modest Mouse Working With Big Boi On New Tracks

2011-04-28T10:41:00.000-07:00

Indie rockers Modest Mouse are back in the studio working on new songs for their first album since 2007's We Were Dead Before The Ship Even Sank, and having managed to wrangle Big Boi to collaborate on the new tracks, according to the rappers' Twitter account.

"Been camped out in the Lab with Modest Mouse all week, workin on the new mouse LP, coolest cats ever. Long Live The Funk," he tweeted. The rapper also tweeted that producer Chris Carmouche, who worked on Outkast's Speakerboxx/The Love Below is also in the studio.

While the band hasn't revealed when their album will be released they have teasing new material. Watch a performance of an untitled song on the online series Don't Move Here which documents the Portland music scene. The performance occurs at around the 7:56 mark.

Artist Profile: The Gromble

2011-04-28T09:56:00.000-07:00

California-based indie rockers The Gromble was formed by four friends in the summer of 2009. While they've only been together for less than two years, they show a talent for melding hooky riffs and melodies with intimate, dense lyrics about relationships.The emotional nakedness seems to impact the musical as well.

"Toto" is a swinging pop gem full of bouncy drums and guitars, but ends with a series of somber, slightly distorted chords. "Creepy Crawly" opens with off-kilter, plucked strings, that eventually explode into pummeling power chords and pounding drums, providing a good back drop for lyrics like "We're still alive inside my mind/And that might be the only place I see you." Listen to a few tracks and watch the band perform "Parking Lot" below.

Vid Pick: Tahiti 80 "Easy"

2011-04-27T19:34:00.000-07:00

Take a look at the clip for Tahiti 80's song "Easy." Directed by Daisuke Kitayama, the quirky video features plently of intricate animation for graphic design geeks to pour over, while providing a perfect compliment to the track's breezy dance pop sound.

Amanda Palmer, Ben Folds, Neil Gaiman and Damien Kulash Write New Album In A Day

2011-04-27T13:49:00.000-07:00

Giving new meaning to the phrase "in record time" Ben Folds, Amanda Palmer, Neil Gaiman and Damien Kulash set out to write and record eight songs in eight hours Monday at Berklee College Of Music and release them 10 hours later during the Rethink Music program in Boston.

The marathon collaboration was broadcast live from the recording studio at rethink-music.com. The group gave a presenation later that morning, followed by a private concert for conference registrants at the Berklee Performance Center.

The 8in8 album, appropriately titled Night Night, is currently available on Bandcamp.com. All proceeds from the first week of downloads will benefit Berklee City Music, which provides free music education to underprivileged teens. Listen to and download 8in8 track "One Tiny Thing" below.

One Tiny Thing by 8in8

Metallica To Make New Album With Rick Rubin

2011-04-27T12:18:00.000-07:00

Metallica will be teaming up with producer Rick Rubin again for their next album, a follow up to 2008's Death Magnetic, according to bassist Robert Trujillo. In an interview with 93.7 KCLB Rocks! Radio Trujillo explained the group's relationship to Rubin, who they believe has a "zen guru spirit."

"Yeah, I love working with Rick. Rick, to me, he's sort of a Zen guru spirit that Metallica needs right now, he said. "Not to say that we need it, because we're getting along incredibly well, we're really excited to write some new music. There's no shortage of riffage in Metallica world right now. And I think it's only gonna get better."

Before heading back into the studio though, the band will playing a few more special shows. "The Big Four" dates with fellow thrash legends Slayer, Megadeth and Anthrax will take place in Europe, South America and Southern Asia, and India.

Read the full story at Spinner.

Rival Schools Get Remixed By The Beastie Boys' Ad-Rock

2011-04-27T10:44:00.000-07:00

Rival Schools must take the old adage 'better late than never' to heart. After a decade the group has finally released the follow up to their debut, with a new disc entitled Pedals. Since then things have seemed to kick into overdrive for the band, between playing sold shows, including a few European gigs with Trail Of Dead, and dropping videos for the tracks "Wring It Out" and "Shot After Shot."

The band has also enlisted the help of The Beastie Boys' Ad Rock for a remix of "69 Guns," which is more an entire deconstruction of the song than a remix. Rival Schools will also be performing at Lollapalooza and are kicking off a tour of the west coast in May. View the tour dates and listen to "69 Guns" below.

RIVAL SCHOOLS - 69 Gunz (Ad-Rock Remix) by Photo Finish Records

05/20: Anaheim, CA @ Chain Reaction
05/21: Los Angeles, CA @ Bootleg Theater
05/23: San Jose, CA @ The Blank Club
05/24: San Francisco, CA @ Slim's
05/26: Portland, OR @ Peter's Room
05/27: George, WA @ Sasquatch! Music Festival
08/05 – 08/07: Chicago, IL @ Lollapalooza

Holy Ghost! Premiere "Wait And See" Video

2011-04-27T10:02:00.000-07:00

With their self-titled debut finally unleashed on the world and fresh off a tour with Cut Copy, Holy Ghost! are plowing ahead with a performance at Music Hall of Williamsburg this Friday, April 29, and also gearing up for a European tour before crossing back over the pond for some U.S. gigs. In the meantime the band has released a new video for the single "Wait And See."

Set in the duo's familiar NYC stomping grounds, they decided to include some very special guests for the clip. "For a long time Nick and I joked that our dads should take our press photos," Alex Frankel said. "At some point our go-to director, Ben Fries, came up with the idea of actually making a video with playing us and "Wait And See" seemed like the perfect song to do it for."

While both dads were a little nervous about their cameos, Frankel assured them they weren't butt of the joke. "My dad was appalled at the sizing options at American Apparel. But when we explained that the joke wasn't on them--that it was actually kind of making fun of us getting older and still living like teenagers--they were game. For the record they agree: We need to grow up."

Watch the video below.

Holy Ghost! - Wait & See from DFA Records on Vimeo.

Smashing Pumpkins Planning Reissues, Announce New Album

2011-04-26T12:32:00.000-07:00

Looks like the The Smashing Pumpkins are taking a page out of Pearl Jam's book by reissuing their back catalogue over the next three years. According to Rolling Stone, the first wave of reissues will take place in the fall, and will include the band's debut Gish, their second album Siamese Dream and 1994's compilation Pisces Iscariot.

Although it's unclear what extra goodies will be included on each reissue, frontman Billy Corgan tweeted that he recently found tapes of the band's first performance of "Starla" as well as a cover of Lynyrd Skynyrd's "Sweet Home Alabama," so unreleased tracks may be on the menu.

The other round of reissues, which include 1995's Mellon Collie and The Infinite Sadness, five-disc rarities set The Aeroplane Flies High and 1998's Adore, will be released in 2012. But it's not all nostalgia, as The Smashing Pumpkins also plan to release a new album entitled Oceania, "an album within an album" as part of the group's ambitious 44-song Teargarden by Kaleidyscope. A new song "Owata" will be released for free online next week.

They Might Be Giants "Join Us" Tracks On iTunes, Live Dates Announced

2011-04-26T10:52:00.000-07:00

Veteran rockers They Might Be Giants new album Join Us, created in the band's new private studio with long-time collaborator Patrick Dillet, a producer who's also work with Mary J. Blige, David Byrne and Tegan and Sara. Advance tracks from the album were released digitally today on iTunes through the "Complete My Album" program, while the full album will drop on July 19.

The advance offering includes pop songs like "Can't Keep Johnny Down," electronic ballad "Never Knew Love," and the folk pop jam "Old Pine Box." The band is also launching its first international tour in over a decade this fall, with shows in six countries and more than 50 cities in the U.S. While more details will be announced in a month, view of some of the dates below. You can also stream the advance tracks over at AOL Spinner.

5/29: Des Moines, IA @ Iowa State Fair Grounds
6/11: Toronto, ON @ Luminato Festival FREE CONCERT
7/15: London, UK @ Koko
7/16: Southwold, UK @ Latitude Festival
7/29: Brooklyn, NY @ Williamsburg Waterfront w/Eugene Mirman FREE CONCERT

New Music: DATAROCK "California (Ralph Myers Remix)"

2011-04-26T10:01:00.000-07:00

On this remix of DATAROCK's "California," Ralph Myers reworks the track into a mid-tempo electro stomp with deep bass, ethereal effect, crunchy synthesizers and colossal, reverberating vocals that seem to stretch to the stratosphere. Listen below.

California-Ralph Myerz RMX by IndiesUnder

Dinosaur Bones Announce Summer Tour,

2011-04-26T09:32:00.000-07:00

After a string of successful dates with Tokyo Police Club and opening up for Broken Social Scene at the Telus World Ski and Snowboard Festival, indie pop band Dinosaur will be soldiering on, continuing their road trek with a new summer dates in support of their latest release My Divider. The tour begins May 2 at The Aquarium in Fargo, ND and wraps up July 9 in Toronto, ON at Edgefest 2011.

My Divider, a follow to last year's EP The Birthright, displays the band's knack for crafting complex melodies and guitar-driven rockers like "Highwire Act" and "Point of Pride." Listen to and download CFCF's remix of the album track "Birthright" HERE, and view the list of tour dates below.

5/02: Fargo, ND @ The Aquarium
5/03: Chicago, Il @ Memories
5/05: Detroit, MI @ PJ's Lager House
6/01: Rochester, NY @ Bug Jar
6/02: New Paltz, NY @ Snugg Harbour
6/03: Brooklyn, NY @ Glasslands
6/04: New York, NY @ Pianos
6/08: Columbus, OH @ The Summit
6/11: Chicago, Il @ Schubas
6/12: Rock Island @ Daytrotter
7/09: Toronto, ON @ Edgefest 2011

Poly Styrene Dies At 53

2011-04-26T08:41:00.000-07:00

Punk rock pioneer Poly Styrene has passed away from cancer. Born Marianne Elliot Said on June 3, 1957, Styrene infused her music with incisive commentary on gender politics, consumer culture and modern life, while her attire of braces and bright, dayglo clothes playfully rebelled against the status quo. The singer's seminal album Germ Free Adolescents had a major impact on the genres of Britpop and Riot Grrl.

The singer's latest release, Generation Indigo, continued her knack for writing songs with a message, from "I Luv Your Sneakers," her endorsement of cruelty-free products, or as she put it, "being conscious of the slaughterhouse culture," to talking about racism ("Colour Blind") to those living in poverty ("No Rockefeller"). The singer gave an interview about the album, which comes out today. You can watch interview with Poly Styrene talking about the album below. You can also stream Generation Indigo at AOL Spinner.

Red Hot Chili Pepper's Chad Smith Gives Details About New Album

2011-04-25T10:51:00.000-07:00

In an interview with Rock It Out! Blog, Red Hot Chili Pepper's drummer Chad Smith revealed that the band's new album will be released at the end of August. While there is no official title for the new disc the band is currently sifting through the songs to pick which ones will end up on the album.

On the performance, front the Chili Peppers will be playing Rock In Rio in September and the Summersonic festival in Japan, which takes place August 13-14 in Osaka and Tokyo. There are also rumors the group will do a tour of South America and a November UK gig.

Kings Of Leon Plan Summer Tour With Band Of Horses

2011-04-25T10:43:00.000-07:00

Kings of Leon will be hitting the road for a 29-date summer tour with Band Of Horses beginning July 25 in Orange Beach, AL. The tour will wrap up September 12 in Seattle. Tickets for some shows will go on sale April 29. Visit the band's official website for information.

My Morning Jacket Share New Track, Announce Hometown Show

2011-04-25T10:21:00.000-07:00

The goods just keep on coming from My Morning Jacket. After giving fans a taste of their new album Circuital almost two weeks ago, the band is sharing another album track, "Holdin' On To Black Metal." You can listen to it over at the group's Facebook page.

The band has also announced a special hometown gig at the historic Louisville Palace Theater on May 31, the release date of Circuital. Pre-sale tickets will available on April 26 at noon through the band's fan club and April 27 for American Express cardholders, while all other tickets will go on sale on April 29 at Ticketmaster.com.

$1 from ticket sold will go to benefit The Center for Women and Families. Fans are also encouraged to bring pre-loved backpacks to help Blessings In A Backpack. View the band's tour dates below.

05/20: Gulf Shores, AL @ Hangout Festival
05/31: Louisville, KY @ Louisville Palace Theater
06/02-06/05: Ozark, AR @ Wakarusa Festival
06/05: Hunter, NY @ Mountain Jam
06/09-06/12: Manchester, TN @ Bonnaroo Festival
06/16: Milwaukee, WI @ Riverside Theater
06/17: Chicago, IL @ Auditorium Theatre
06/22: Los Angeles, CA @ Pantages Theatre
06/24: Oakland, CA @ Fox Theatre
06/26: Seattle, WA @ Paramount Theatre
06/28: Portland, OR @ Edgefield
06/29: Vancouver, BC @ Orpheum
06/30-07/03: Quincy, CA @ High Sierra Music Festival
07/11: Toronto, ON @ Kool Haus
07/12: Montreal, QC @ Metropolis
07/16: Southwold @ Latitude Festival
07/17: London @ Somerset House
08/04: Denver, CO @ Red Rocks Amphitheatre
08/05-08/13: Bangor, ME @ The KahBang Festival

Remix Of The Week: Madonna "Justify My Love (Hip Hop Mix)"

2011-04-22T17:31:00.000-07:00

Madge enlisted producer Andre Betts, who later went to produce several hip hop-influenced songs on '92's Erotica, to add a jazz-infused, east coast rap feel to the steamy track. Listen below.

Lil Wayne's Tha Carter IV Gets Pushed Back, Nicki Minaj Talks New Album

2011-04-22T12:55:00.001-07:00

Lil Wayne fans will have to wait a little while longer for the rap star's highly anticipated Tha Carter IV to drop. According to Vibe.com, label reps have confirmed that Wayne's new album will be released on June 21, more than a month after its original May 16 release date.

In other Young Money news, Nicki Minaj gave a few tidbits about her second album during a recent radio appearance on KIIS FM. “You’ll get another album within 12 months,” she told KIIS FM’s JoJo. “You’ll get the announcement for the next album in—and I’m saying the announcement—that you’ll get the announcement in September. That’s all.” Minaj is currently on the I Am Music II tour with Wayne, but will hit the road with Britney Spears for her Femme Fatale tour in June.

Beyonce Reveal "Girl" Single Cover Art, Video Teaser

2011-04-21T12:43:00.000-07:00

Beyonce has revealed the single cover art for her new track "Run The World (Girls)" as well as a short teaser for the video. According to RNBMusicBlog.com In a press release the singer said the song was written and produced herself, Switch, Shea Taylor and The Dream, who was also responsible for her '08 smash "Single Ladies." "Run The World (Girls)" is slated to be released on iTunes Friday. Watch the video teaser below.

Lady Gaga, Justin Timberlake To Appear On SNL

2011-04-21T12:29:00.000-07:00

Lady Gaga will be appearing on Saturday Night Live next month as a musical guest. The singer's appearance on May 21 is timed perfectly for the release of her new CD Born This Way, set to drop May 23. Although he's been MIA from the music scene for a few years now, Justin Timberlake will also be hosting SNL the same night as Gaga's performance.

New Music: Lisa Savidge "Fireexiting"

2011-04-21T12:10:00.000-07:00

Phoenix-based noise pop band Lisa Savidge's new track "Fireexiting," from their upcoming sophomore release Lisa Savidge, couldn't come anywhere else but out of left field. Taking flight with booming drums and whooshing, distorted guitars that sound like twin choppers, the track ratchets up the tension before opening up with a burst of atmospheric keyboards sounds, creating an effect that is at once jarring and comforting.

Formed by vocalist/guitarist Dan Somers, a former government intelligence operative, Lisa Savidge includes violinist/lead guitarist Ellery Keller, guitarist/keyboardist Nick Gortari, bassist Patrick Lamaide and drummer James Krehbiel.

You can listen to and download the track HERE.

Shit Robot Premiere New Video, Release Free MP3s

2011-04-21T10:57:00.000-07:00

Having just finished up a string of U.S. tour dates on the aptly titled The Shit Robot Show, including several as the opening act for LCD Soundsystem, he has now released a new video for "Losing My Patience." Directed by Fergal Brennan, the clip features an animated version of Hot Chip's Alexis Taylor, who guests on the track, as well as stop-motion animation and other visual tricks.

Shit Robot, a.k.a Marcus Lambkin, has also given fans two free MP3s to savor, the quirky "I Found Love," with its off-kilter synths and distorted vocals, and "Tuff Enuff." Watch the video and listen to and download "I Found Love" below.

I Found Love Edit by IndiesUnder

Shit Robot - Losing My Patience from DFA Records on Vimeo.

Lil Wayne Reveals 'Tha Carter IV' Cover Art

2011-04-20T11:54:00.000-07:00

Lil Wayne has revealed the official cover art for Tha Carter IV. Continuing with the childhood picture theme of his last full-length, the new album's cover shows a young Dwayne Carter possibly in kindergarten or the second grade, complete with cap and gown and covered in his grown up tattoos. While the album has no official release date, it's set to include features from Nicki Minaj, Rick Ross and Drake, and should drop at some point this summer.

Marianne Faithful To Release New Album

2011-04-20T11:16:00.000-07:00

Marianne Faithful's 23rd album Horses And High Heels will be released on June 28th. The 12-song collection features eight cover songs ranging from Carol King's "Going Back" to Greg Dulli and Mark Lanegan's "The Stations," as well as four new tunes. The new disc will also feature guest stars like Lou Reed and Dr. John and MC5's Wayne Kramer.

Recorded in New Orleans with producer Hal Willner, Horses and High Heels is the singer's first new release since 2009's Easy Come, Easy Go, also produced by Willner. The new album delves into a kaleidoscopic array of musical styles, ranging from soul, blues and country to jazz-pop and guitar-rock. Get a taste of the new album by listening to and downloading "Why Did We Have To Part?" below.

Why Did We Have To Part by Marianne Faithful

The Drums Release New Song For Japan Disaster Relief

2011-04-20T10:51:00.000-07:00

The Drums have released a new track, "The New World," to help Japan's disaster relief efforts. The song is currently available for download on iTunes and the band's official website. "The New World," which will not appear on the band's upcoming album, will available for purchase-with-donation until September 30th, the date when the Japanese Red Cross will close the account for donations.

The band released statement about the song.

"We are deeply saddened by what has happened, and we are so in awe of the strength and courage shown by the people of Japan. We wrote this song bring a little more hope. Japan, we have loved you since the very first moment we set foot on your land. Thank you for all for your love."

Q&A: Holy Ghost!

2011-04-20T09:41:00.000-07:00

Ever since the release of their debut single "Hold On" four years ago, electro duo Holy Ghost!, made up of childhood friends Alex Frankel and Nick Milhiser have gone from strength to strength, releasing another memorable cut, "I Will Come Back," in 2009 and dropped the critically-acclaimed Static On The Wire EP last year.

Now with their self-titled debut, (which garnered the first 5 out of 5 review on this blog) topping iTunes' Electronic Charts and a U.S. tour with fellow dance-rockers Cut Copy, the band seems poised to become electro music's next big thing.

Holy Ghost! chatted with Indies And The Underground about their early musical incarnation as hip hop band Automato, remixing Michael Jackson and Fleetwood Mac, and how they lured in Michael McDonald to sing on the album.

While the name Holy Ghost! comes from a song by Bar Keys, did either of you grow up in a religious home?

Not so much...I'm Jewish and Nick is not, but by virtue of the fact that we're both from the Upper West Side of NYC we're both basically Jewish.

What were your early musical/songwriting influences?

The Talking Heads, New Order, Michael Jackson

You were in a hip hop band called Automato in your teen years. How is Holy Ghost! different from your previous band?

Actually, musically it's not all that different in its approach. We still think about sound in a similar way, but now it's more melody based and chord driven. But we still think about drums the same way really.

Both of you are classically trained musicians as well as DJs. How has that affected your approach to making music?

We're not classically trained but we did take lessons growing up and taught ourselves a bunch of stuff. I don't what it would be like to make music without knowing how to play anything at all. Certainly people do it all the time with excellent results. And I imagine a lot of creativity comes from having no rules. But I guess I like to be able to sit at the piano when we're writing and kind of just go without thinking to much about what follows what...I guess a little bit of training helps allow yourself to just play and see what comes out instead of being stuck before you start. But I don't know. There's no right way. It certainly helps that Nick is a drummer for dance music.

Which mainstream hits would you love to remix?

Eeek, I'd rather not touch the things I really like. Having the stems to the Michael Jackson catalogue would be pretty sweet though...or Fleetwood Mac!

Holy Ghost! sounds like a modern take on the late 70's/early 80's new wave, R&B and disco sounds of bands like Chic, Duran Duran, Depeche Mode, Modern English, The Cars and Let's Dance-era David Bowie, as well as Prince and Michael Jackson. Did you have those or other artists in mind while recording the album?

I think everyone who enjoys life has those songs and artists in their minds.

How were you able to get Michael McDonald to guest on "Some Children?"

Strangely he just wanted a back rub. No, through a friend of a friend.

Although it's upbeat musically, lyrically the album sometimes touches on some pretty emotional territory, like "Jam For Jerry," a song about the death of your drummer, and songs like "Hold My Breath," "Wait and See" and "Static On The Walls." Was it a conscious decision to have the contrast with the sound and lyrics?

Definitely on "Jam For Jerry" we had the idea. "What about a song that pays tribute to a somber subject lyrically but in an uplifting way musically."

You stated that you wanted to make an album that people would want to play both at a club and at

home. Do you feel that's a barrier that a lot of dance artists face?

Of course, and hurdle many stumble over. Hopefully we cleared it.

You guys, along with other bands like Cut Copy, Sleigh Bells and MGMT, blur the lines between electronic dance music, pop and rock music. Do you see yourselves as part of a movemnt or a creating a new style of pop music?

Hmm, I don't think we really think like that nor are we in a position to judge where we fit in. I do feel a certain sense of kinship with Cut Copy because they are good friends.

What can fans expect next from you?

Not sure yet, but it'll probably have to do with more music.

Cut Copy Announce Summer Tour Dates, Drop "Need You Now" Remix

2011-04-19T11:35:00.000-07:00

Fresh from a stint at the Coachella Festival, Cut Copy has a gift for fans in the form in the "Need You Now" (Carl Craig) remix. And although the band wraps up the U.S. leg of their tour this week, fear not. The Aussie trio will be returning the states for more gigs beginning June 5 in Houston, TX. View the tour dates and listen to the "Need You Now" remix below. You can get a glimpse of the band's Coachella performance in the video below.

Need You Now (Carl Craig Remix) by cutcopymusic

6/5: Houston, TX @ Free Press Summer Fest - BUY TICKETS
7/5: Richmond, VA @ The National - BUY TICKETS
7/6: Baltimore, MD @ Rams Head Live! - BUY TICKETS
7/7: Pattersonville, NY @ Camp Bisco - BUY TICKETS
7/9: Detroit, MI @ Royal Oak Music Hall - BUY TICKETS
7/11: Pittsburgh, PA @ Club Zoo - BUY TICKETS
7/17: Chicago, IL @ Pitchfork Music Festival at Union Park - BUY TICKETS
7/11: Brooklyn, NY @ Celebrate Brooklyn at Prospect Park Band Shell - BUY TICKETS
8/12: Tempe, AZ @ The Marquee - BUY TICKETS
8/13: Orange County, CA @ Pacific Festival at Oak Canyon Park

B.O.M.B. Fest Moved To Larger Venue

2011-04-19T10:48:00.000-07:00

Citing strong early ticket sales, the 3rd annual B.O.M.B. (Bring Our Music Back) Festival has been moved to the Comcast Theatre In Hartford,CT. B.O.M.B. Fest marks the first time The Comcast Theatre has hosted a non-profit, albeit one featuring rap stars like Snoop Dogg and Wiz Khalifa, veteran rockers like Weezer and indie acts like The New Pornographers and The Cool Kids. The festival will also feature 25 local acts on multiple stages.

Live Nation Conneticut-Upstate New York President Jim Koplick was pleased about the festival move to a larger space."I have watch BOMB fest grow from its days at the Durhma Fair and am honored they have chosen the Comcast Theatre to host the 2011 BOMB fest," said Koplick. "It is the number one homegrown festival in Connecticut and now it will be held in the premiere outdoor concert venue in Connecticut."

Proceeds from the festival will go towards providing music scholarships, music enrichment and education programs. Last year's festival raised funds for The Hole In The Wall Gang Camps, Connecticut Children's Hospital YPI Camp and The Lyman Allyn Museum.

For more information go to B.O.M.B. Fest's official website. View the festival's current lineup below.

SATURDAY, May 28
Weezer,
Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros
George Clinton & Parliament/Funkadelic
Best Coast
HEALTH
Titus Andronicus
RJD2
Wavves
EOTO
The Cool Kids
Dan Deacon
The Felice Brothers
ESKMO
Real Estate
Woods
Free Energy
Roots of Creation
David Wax Museum
Turbo Fruits

SUNDAY, May 29
Snoop Dogg
Wiz Khalifa
Coheed and Cambria
Against Me!
Shpongle presents The Shpongletron Experience
Neon Trees
The New Pornographers
State Radio
Dam-Funk
Dum Dum Girls
Man Man
Holy F**k
Portugal.
The Man
Freelance Whales
Quintron and Miss Pussycat
Daedelus
12th Planet
Nosaj Thing
Toubab Krewe
Big Freedia
Christine Ohlman & Rebel Montez
The Hood Internet
Small Black
River City Extension
Walk the Moon

Digitalism: "2 Hearts"

2011-04-19T09:50:00.000-07:00

Hamburg-based dance duo Digitalism, made up of Jens Moelle and Ismail "Isi" Tuefekci have released the first single from their upcoming album I Love You Dude, the follow up to 2007's Idealism. From the moment the bendy guitar kicks in, you know you're in a for a trippy ride. Combining lo-fi guitars, robotic bass, and melancholy synths, "2 Hears" sounds coldly detached while still conveying raw emotion. I Love You Dude drops on June 21st.

Eldridge Rodriguez "Miss Me When I'm Gone"

2011-04-19T09:20:00.000-07:00

"Miss Me When I'm Gone," a song by The Beatings' front man Cameron Keiber's solo project Eldridge Rodriguez, is a minimalist piece of pop/rock, with acoustic guitars and simple but steady drum work. Joined by guest vocalist Sarah Borges, the track's lyrics ruefully tell an ex-lover/friend how much they'll lose by leaving.

Lines like "Like a face that needs a fist/Like a razor that needs a wrist," show how serious the duo are, while humorous ones like "I tried to clear my aching head/By running naked through the streets/They came and tied me to bed/I will admit this was a minor defeat" add a bit of levity.

"Miss Me When I'm Gone" is from Eldridge Rodriguez's album You Are Released, which was released back in March. Listen below.

Miss Me When Im Gone by Eldridge Rodriguez

New Music: Beyonce "Girl (Who Run The World)"

2011-04-18T22:17:00.000-07:00

C'mon girls, do you believe in world domination? That's the message of Beyonce's new track "Girl (Who Run The World)." A fiery female empowerment anthem, the song features stabs of samples and synthesizers pared against pounding drums, while the rafter-raising chants and Beyonce's powerful, rapid-fire delivery create a colossal wall of sound.

Listen to it over at RapRadar.com

Five Things Marilyn Manson Needs To Do For A Comeback

2011-04-18T19:17:00.000-07:00

Ten years ago Marilyn Manson was one of the world's most infamous and controversial rock stars. Manson and his cronies were the scourge of conservative America--every tour date was plagued by Christian protestors hellbent on keeping the kiddies away from the devil's latest storm trooper, while intense cultural debates about his subversive image stretched to the halls of Congress.

The band is currently at work on a a new album, and their leader is still a presence in the art and indie film worlds. However, while his loyal core audience has remained, it's clear that in 2011 Manson has seen better days. All is not lost though.

The current landscape of rock stars, populated by earnest, plainly dressed acts like Kings Of Leon, Arcade Fire and Foo Fighters, reveal a need for a performer with larger-than-life theatrics and powerful persona. Meanwhile the runaway success freaky deeky pop starlets like Lady Gaga, Rihanna, Katy Perry--hell even Britney's gone all apoctalyptic on us--show that pop audiences are also game for Manson's dark oeuvre.

Here are five ways the Antichrist Superstar can make a comeback.

1. Hire A Vocal Coach

Screaming at the top of your lungs every night for nearly two decades is enough to wear down anyone's vocal chords. While Manson still maintains some of his vicious snarl, his lung power has dropped a few notches since his heyday. Taking vocal lessons will give him more options with song and vocal arrangements, and he'll be able to rely less on screaming.

2. Hit The Gym

It's not hard to notice that the singer's usual beanpole physique has packed on some pounds over recent years. The extra baggage has stripped his live performances of their once brutal physicality, making him come across as lethargic and listless onstage. Lazy beelzebubs aren't nearly as scary. Working out will also increase vocal stamina, so it ties into tip number one as well.

3. Camp Outside Trent Reznor's House

Manson and his former mentor Trent Reznor have had more falling outs and reconciliations than an entire season of Dynasty. But it's never too late to kiss and make up. From a musical standpoint, Reznor is known for experimentation and exploring new sonic territory. Working with him could push Manson to a new creative space. A Manson/Reznor collaboration would also bring tons of publicity, with the NIN frontman currently riding high from his Oscar win. And with 2011 marking Antichrist Superstar's 15th year anniversary, a new album featuring Reznor's production would draw fans and curious observers alike.

If hooking up with Reznor is out of the question, Butch Vig, the former Nirvana producer and Garbage drummer responsible for Foo Fighters' critically-acclaimed smash Wasting Light, could be a great second choice.

4. Relinquish Your Pen

Two heads are often better than one, especially when it comes to songwriting. Allowing Twiggy, Chris Vrenna and Fred Sablan to contribute to the lyrical process will expand the new album's subject matter, and give it a different point of view.

5. Pull A Green Day

If any 90's era band knows how to pull themselves out of a commercial slump, it's Green Day. The trio was pretty much written off after 2000's Warning, but have managed to wring a hit album and a hit Broadway musical out of 2004's American Idiot. Manson's back catalogue is tailor made for an epic Broadway production. Omega, Anti-Christ Superstar, Adam Kadmon....the characters and storylines are already in place. All they would need is some flushing out and a director and cast. If audiences will flock to the theater to watch plays about screwed up kids living in America or Spider Man, the story of a weakling that turns into a megalomaniacal, world-destroying demon or a decadent androgynous, alien rock star are sure to generate interest.

Kanye West, The Chemical Brothers To Headline Big Chill Festival

2011-04-18T12:52:00.000-07:00

Kanye West has been announced as the headliner for this year's The Big Chill festival. West, along with The Chemical Brothers and Rodrigo Y Gabriela will headline the three-day event at Eastnor Castle Park, Herefordshire August 5-7th. For more information go to Bigchill.net.

View the full festival lineup at NME.com.

Lady Gaga's 'Judas' Tops iTunes, Battles Rihanna For No.1 Spot

2011-04-18T12:26:00.000-07:00

Although it was only released, or rather leaked, on Friday, Lady Gaga's new single "Judas" is in the running to debut at No.1 on Billboard's Hot 100 next week. However Gaga will have contend will fellow pop diva Rihanna's current hit "S&M," the sales of which have been boasted by a new "Rihmix" featuring Britney Spears. Industry insiders predict the collaboration could sell nearly 300,000 downloads of the track.

According to Billboard.com, "'Judas' would have to sell north of 350,000 -- close to 400,000 -- with less than two and-a-half days of sales in the week, in order to possibly debut at No. 1 on the Hot 100. Also playing a role in its initial Hot 100 ranking will be the radio audience impressions "Judas" will garner through the end of the airplay tracking period which runs through Tuesday (April 19). A fast first week start at radio, similar to "Born This Way" (78.6 million), would certainly help Gaga's No. 1 cause."

Read the full story HERE.

Remix Of The Week: Justice "D.A.N.C.E. (MSTRKRFT Remix)"

2011-04-15T17:32:00.000-07:00

Lend your ears to this cool remix of Justice's club banger "D.A.N.C.E." by Mstrkrft. Enjoy.

Artist Profile: Tic Tic Boom!

2011-04-14T12:21:00.000-07:00

When the goal is for your music to be labeled "electro-pop-tacular," you better stack big beats and supersonic synthesizers or go home. Fortunately Hollywood-based indie pop quartet Tic Tic Boom! are up to the task. Driven by the creative collaboration of Mike DeLay and Leilani Francisco, the band crafts giddy synth pop that combines lo-fi guitars, electronic flourishes and catchy melodies.

The uptempo romp "Just Friends" sounds like a long lost Go-Go's track, with it's bendy new wave-style guitars, fluttering synths and smooth harmonies.

Meanwhile, "The Pattern," driven by loopy synths, frenetic bass and Cure-style guitars, discusses such somber topics like death and nuclear war, proving that Leilani's voice has the power to make anything sound bright and poppy. A "99 Luftballoons" for Generation Y. Listen to a few tracks below:

Find more Tic Tic Boom! songs at Myspace Music

Find more artists like Tic Tic Boom! at Myspace Music

Wu-Tang Clan Announce June UK Tour

2011-04-14T11:46:00.000-07:00

The Wu-Tang Clan have announced a five date tour of the U.K. Slated to begin in June, the eight-man rap group will play two shows at London's HMV Forum on June 11 and 12. The tour will end on June 15 with a headlining performance at Manchester Academy.

Tickets will go on sale tomorrow at 9am GMT. For more information, NME.com/Tickets.

Listen: French Horn Rebellion On Myspace

2011-04-14T11:38:00.000-07:00

Electro pop duo French Horn Rebellion's debut album ,The Infinite Music Of French Horn Rebellion, is currently streaming on Myspace. The album will have its official physical release on May 19th and a digital release on April 19th.

Infinite Music blends rock, funk, electro, and dance in an intergalactic tale of a French horn player's physical and emotional journey. "There is a story running through the album, it's about the Universe, says David. We're pretty clear on what the story is, but what you take away from it may be something entirely different."

In addition the band is also embarking on a 27 date North American tour with French electro pop outfit Yelle, beginning on April 17th. View the tour dates below. And if you don't have time to sit and listen to the full album over at Myspace, listen to an album sampler below.

Sun 4/17          Phoenix, AZ @ Rhythm Room (w Yelle*)
Mon 4/18         Tucson, AZ @ Club Congress *
Tues 4/19        Albuquerque, NM @ Launchpad *
Thurs 4/21      Dallas, TX @ Granada Theater *
Fri 4/22           Austin, TX @ The Mohawk *
Sat 4/23           Houston, TX @ Fitzgeralds *
Sun 4/24          Mobile, AL @ Alabama Music Box (FHR show)
Mon 4/25         Atlanta, GA @ Masquerade (Hell Stage) *
Tues 4/26        Carrboro, NC @ Cats Cradle *
Weds 4/27      Washington DC @ 9:30 Club *
Fri 4/29            Boston MA @ Royale Nightclub *
Sat 4/30           New York, NY @ The Fillmore New York at Irving *
Mon 5/2           Quebec City, QC @ Le Circle *
Tues 5/3          Montreal, QC @ Le National *
Weds 5/4        Toronto, ON @ Opera House *
Thurs 5/5        Toledo, OH @ Frankie's (FHR Show)
Fri 5/6             Chicago, IL @ The Bottom Lounge *
Sat 5/7             Minneapolis, MN @ First Avenue *
Sun 5/8            Madison WI @ Majestic Theatre *
Tues 5/10        Denver CO @ Bluebird Theatre *
Weds 5/11      Salt Lake City, UT @ Urban Lounge *
Fri 5/13          Vancouver, BC @ Commodore Ballroom *
Sat 5/14          Seattle WA @ Neumos *
Sun 5/15         Portland OR @ Wonder Ballroom *
Tues 5/17        Reno, NV @ Tonic Lounge *
Weds 5/18      Santa Cruz, CA @ Rio Theatre *
Thurs 519       San Francisco, CA @The Grand Ballroom @ Regency *
Fri 5/20           San Diego, CA @ Casbah *
Sat 5/21           Los Angeles, CA @ Music Box at The Henry Fonda *

Allies "Oceans (Thade Remix)"

2011-04-14T11:17:00.000-07:00

Brian Suarez, a.k.a Allies, caught the attention of DJs everywhere last month when he released his DJ Mixtape, featuring everyone from Florence and The Machine to Royksopp. His new track "Oceans (Thade Remix)" melds synth pop and electro dance grooves to create a sound that is both pulsating and meditative. Listen below.

Double Vid Pick: Xzibit Ft. Young De "Man On The Moon"/G-Side "Came Up"

2011-04-13T17:49:00.000-07:00

Having come across two clips today that I found pretty cool, I thought I'd do a rare double vid pick. First up is a new video from rap veteran Xzibit and Young De for the new single "Man On The Moon," the first offering from his upcoming album MMXI. The clip shows the rappers underwater brandishing different objects for both serious and comic effect. It's simple but effective.

The other vid pick is Alabama duo G-Side's documentary-style clip for "Came Up." Far from a glammed up hometown trip through the hood, with scenes filmed in rundown project hallways and buildings. The visuals are made all the more poignant by the track, which features melancholy violins and atmospheric keyboards. ST 2 Lettaz told Spin "We went back to the block. We back to where we came from -- back to the basics to show where we came up from." Adds Yung Clova, "We wanted to show people our hometown."

Watch the video below.

Foo Fighters Give Away 'Wasting Light' Master Tapes

2011-04-13T11:44:00.000-07:00

Foo Fighters singer/guitarist Dave Grohl has revealed that the band is giving away master tapes from their latest release Wasting Light by inserting them into copies of the album.

Grohl told L.A. Weekly they decided to destroy masters of the album, recorded entirely on analog tape, once it was completed.

"We recorded the record in my garage to analog tape, and probably wound up with 20-30 reels of tapes. At the end of the session I thought it would be an extraordinary move to destroy all the masters and give the pieces of the tapes to the fans."

He said the band chose to give away the tapes to "prove a point to everybody to show how intangible a real tape can be. I thought, let's chop it up into a million pieces, and give it to the people who buy the album so they can hold it in their hands and see it."

Fans will know if their copy of Wasting Light contains a piece of the master tape if the CD has a sticker that says: "Recorded entirely on onalog tape in Dave's garage. A piece of the original master tape included in this package."

Watch Dave give a tour of the garage/studio over at NME.com

Planningtorock "Doorway (Creep Remix)"

2011-04-13T09:57:00.000-07:00

Creep's take on Planningtorock's "Doorway" changes the tone of the track, pulling the original out of its dark, otherworldly realm into a place that almost sounds like an ancient Gregorian chant. Planningtorock's album W is out May 17th. Listen below.

Doorway (Creep Remix) by DFA Records

Joan As Police Woman Kicks Off National Tour

2011-04-13T09:38:00.000-07:00

Joan As Police Woman kicks a national tour Thursday in support of her new album The Deep Field, released yesterday. The album is available digitally on Amazon and the singer's official website, as well as on CD and vinyl. AOL Spinner is also streaming the entire album.

View the tour dates below.

04/14: New York, NY @ Mercury Lounge (SOLD OUT)
04/15: Philadelphia, PA @ The Tin Angel
04/19: Boston, MA @ The Middle East (Upstairs)
04/20: Buffalo, NY @ The Ninth Ward
04/21: Toronto, ON @ The Drake Hotel
04/22: Pontiac, MI @ The Pike Room at The Crofoot
04/24: Chicago, IL @ Schuba's Tavern
04/26: Minneapolis, MN @ Cedar Street Cultural Center
04/27: Kansas City, MO @ Record Bar
04/29: Dallas, TX @ Club Dada
04/30: Austin, TX @ The Parish
05/02: Atlanta, GA @ The Earl
05/04: Vienna, VA @ Jammin' Java
05/20: Seattle, WA @ Columbia City Theater
05/21: Portland, OR @ Mississippi Studios
05/25: San Francisco, CA @ Café du Nord
05/27: Los Angeles, CA @ Bootleg Theater
06/15: Brooklyn, NY @ The Bell House (JUST ADDED)

This Will Destroy You To Tour With Pure X

2011-04-13T08:54:00.000-07:00

On the heels of a string of memorable performances at SXSW, This Will Destroy You will be hitting the road for a North American tour. Supporting acts Pure X and Sleep Over will join the band at stops in Phoenix to Chicago, while The Nighty Night will be joining the band from Boston to Austin.

This Will Destroy You's new album Tunnel Blanket is set for release on May 10th. In the meantime, watch a clip of the band performing "Little Smoke" at the prestigious IFC House during SXSW, and view the list of tour dates below.

4.16 Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth - Fort Worth Tx
4.30 Austin Psych Fest - Austin, TX
5.14 Main St. Garden - Dallas, TX
5.16 Rhythm Room - Phoenix, AZ
5.17 Echo - Los Angeles, CA
5.18 The Independent - San Francisco, CA
5.20 Star Theater - Portland, OR
5.21 Vera Project - Seattle, WA
5.22 Media Club - Vancouver
5.24 Kilby Court - Salt Lake City, UT
5.25 Larimer Lounge - Denver, CO
5.26 Bourbon Theatre - Lincoln, NE
5.27 7th Street Entry - Minneapolis, mn
5.28 The Bottom Lounge - Chicago, IL
5.30 Lee's Palace - Toronto, ON
5.31 Club Lambi - Montreal
6.1 Brighton Music Hall – Allston, MA
6.2 Bowery Ballroom - NY, NY
6.3 Johnny Brendas - Philadelphia, PA
6.4 Sonar Club Stage - Baltimore, MD
6.5 Rock and Roll Hotel - Washington DC
6.7 Strange Matter - Richmond, VA
6.8 Lexington Avenue Brewery - Ashville, NC
6.9 The Earl - Atlanta, GA
6.10 Spanish Moon - Baton Rouge, La
6.11 Fitzgeralds - Houston, TX
6.12 The Parish - Austin, TX

Q&A: The Five One

2011-04-13T08:30:00.000-07:00

Currently making waves with the hip pop jam "Closing Time," Virginia rap group The Five One have been playing the genre mashup game for a minute, reworking hit from a diverse group of artists ranging from Janet Jackson to Vampire Weekend. In a quick chat with Indies And The Underground, the group talks about how they got their name, the power of old-school Disney movies, and their favorite songs on the radio.

How did you come up with the name The Five One?

The name represents the area where we all are from as the 51st state. its the part of Virginia thats right next to DC. DC suburbs.

What were your early musical/songwriting influences?

Early Disney movies like Robin Hood and Jungle Book, The Beatles, Michael Jackson, Bob Marley and the list goes on but if you day early influences I think it all starts with Disney for us and sat Morning Cartoons.

You guys have reworked songs by Daft Punk, Vampire Weekend, Janet Jackson and Semisonic for the new track "Closing Time." How do you approach remixing/remaking a song?

Things that we listen to will just speak to us and we find a song working a song just rework the concepts like a filmmakers do.

You're also one of the few live bands in rap. How do you feel that influences your music?

It brings an element of freedom which allows us to not think of genres and style

What are your top 3 favorite songs on the radio right now ?

Wocka Flocka - Hard in the Paint , Wocka Flocka "No Hands," and if Rebecca Black - Friday is on the radio that's it.

The Shivers Announce New Album, U.S. Tour Dates

2011-04-12T11:16:00.000-07:00

Queens, NY duo The Shivers will release their latest album More on May 10th. Recorded over five fiendish days in an entirely analog studio Manchester, the band fleshed out tracks created at their homebase, a small church in Queens. To give fans a preview of what to expect, the band has released album track "Used To Be" for free download. Driven by a jangly, steady guitar and catchy synth line, the song celebrates letting go of old anxieties and resentments.

The rest of the album finds the band exploring sixties garage rock ("Irrational Love"), upbeat pop ("I Want You Back," "Used To Be") and heartsick love ballads ("Love Is In The Air"). The Shivers will also be hitting the road in May, beginning with a gig at San Francisco's Cafe Du Nord on May 4th. Listen and download "Use To Be" and view the list of tour dates below.

Used To Be by The Shivers

05/04: San Francisco, CA @ Café Du Nord
05/06: Ashland, OR @ Culture Works
05/07: Portland, OR @ Backspace
05/10: Moscow, ID @ John’s Alley
05/11: Hailey, ID @ Sun Valley Brew
05/12: Salt Lake City, UT @ The Depot
5/15: Fullerton, CA @ Commonwealth Lounge
05/19: San Diego, CA @ Habit House
05/20: San Diego, CA @ Eleven
05/21: Los Angeles, CA @ Hotel Café
05/29: New York, NY @ Mercury Lounge
06/15: New Haven, CT @ BAR

Arcade Fire, Muse, MGMT To Headline Outside Lands Festival

2011-04-12T09:05:00.000-07:00

Arcade Fire, Muse, The Black Keys, Erykah Badu, Big Boi, Phish, The Decemberists and many other acts will be performing at the Outside Lands Music and Art Festival. The concert will take place at San Francisco's Golden Gate Park August 12-14. Tickets will go on sale April 14th at 12 Noon PST at www.SFOutsidelands.com.

View the festival's full line up at Billboard.com.

My Morning Jacket Share Title Track From Circuital

2011-04-12T08:46:00.000-07:00

To celebrate the release of their sixth album Circuital, due out on may 31st, My Morning Jacket has been releasing a live track from their performances at Terminal from last October each week. Now the band has decided to give fans a taste of what to expect from the new album by dropping the title track and revealing the album art

You can download "Circuital" by going to the band's official website. The site is also offering pre-orders for the album, with a deluxe edition that includes an exclusive 30 minute documentary DVD and a high quality lithograph picture taken by Danny Cinch. And in a Willy Wonka-inspired move, 10 deluxe editions will come with a Golden Ticket. Those who get a ticket will receive an original print signed by Cinch and the band.

View My Morning Jacket's tour dates and the artwork for Circuital below.

04/17: Lexington, KY @ Memorial Coliseum
05/20: Gulf Shores, AL @ Hangout Festival
06/02-06/05: Ozark, AR @ Wakarusa Festival
06/05: Hunter, NY @ Mountain Jam
06/09-06/12: Manchester, TN @ Bonnaroo Festival
06/17: Chicago, IL @ Auditorium Theatre
06/22: Los Angeles, CA @ Pantages Theatre
06/24: Oakland, CA @ Fox Theatre
06/26: Seattle, WA @ Paramount Theatre
06/28: Portland, OR @ Edgefield
06/29: Vancouver, BC @ Orpheum
06/30-07/03: Quincy, CA @ High Sierra Music Festival
07/11: Toronto, ON @ Kool Haus
07/12: Montreal, QC @ Metropolis
07/16: Southwold @ Latitude Festival
07/17: London @ Somerset House
08/04: Denver, CO @ Red Rocks Amphitheatre

Beyonce Reveals New Song Title

2011-04-11T10:46:00.000-07:00

According to RNBMusicBlog.com, Beyonce's new single will be called "Girl." The new track, which samples a well-known club hit, will reportedly be in the female empowerment vein of past Bey-anthems like "Single Ladies."

"Girl" will also receive a massive video treatment. Directed by Francis Lawrence, the clip will feature brand new routines choreographed by Danielle Polanco and Luam, over 100 female dancers and two male dancers showcasing African dance styles.

Beyonce's fourth album is set for release later this year.

Nicki Minaj To Tour With Britney Spears

2011-04-11T10:30:00.000-07:00

It's official: Nicki Minaj will be joining Britney Spears as the opening act for her Femme Fatale tour. According to TMZ, sources involved in the negotiation said the deal was signed a few days ago after Enrique Igleasias dropped out. The tour is set to kick off June 17th in Sacramento, CA.

Minaj is currently on the road with Lil Wayne and Rick Ross as part of the I Am Music II tour.

The White Stripes To Release Live Album Of Last Show

2011-04-11T10:17:00.000-07:00

White Stripes fans will be getting a parting gift from the band in the form of a live album of their last show. Recorded on July 31, 2007 the album will be entitled Live In Mississippi and will be released via Jack White's "Vault" fan service on vinyl only.

Along with the live album, the band will also be releasing a 7" of one of their very first recordings done back 1996, which includes renditions of Love's "Signed DC" and Otis Redding's "I've Been Loving You Too Long." A live DVD of a 2000 performance at Ralph's Corner Bar in Moorhead, Mich. entitled Under Moorhead Lights All Fargo Nights.

Vid Pick: Superhuman Happiness "GMYL"

2011-04-11T09:50:00.000-07:00

Check out the quirky visual feast that is Superhuman Happiness' new clip for "GMYL." Band member Stuart Bogie the unique (yeah that's the right word) inspiration behind the clip, directed by Brooklyn filmmaker and photographer Tatiana McCabe.

"We've been dreaming about this video for years. Night after night you find yourself at the bar with the lumberjacks and just when you think it'll be a quiet night, you curiously call to them," he explains. "Like mischievous gnomes they appear and seduce you with the sweet musk of beer and the lure of laughter, exclaiming "We've all been waiting for you!"
Watch below.

Afrobeta "Nighttime"

2011-04-11T09:24:00.000-07:00

Darlings of the Miami avant-dance scene, duo Afrobeta--made up of Cuci Amador and Tony Smurphio--have been tearing up dance floors since 2006. "Nighttime" the first single from their forthcoming album Under The Sheets, a follow up to last year's Do You Party?, is the kind of sleek electro-pop befitting such a title. Full of loopy bottomless bass and seductive synths, the track is made for dark, sweaty strobe light-filled nights. Listen below:

Nighttime by Afrobeta

New Music: Jill Scott Ft. Eve "Shame"

2011-04-08T17:59:00.000-07:00

Two of Philly's finest come together for this souful, sultry jam. The single, Scott's first offering from her upcoming fourth album The Light Of The Sun, is a bouncy, midtempo jam featuring the singer's trademark vibrant vocals and self-confident lyrical swagger. Listen HERE.

Remix Of The Week: Janet Jackson "Rhythm Nation"

2011-04-08T17:39:00.000-07:00

Check out this version of Janet's "Rhythm Nation," remixed for the classic album's 20th anniversary back in '09. Watch below.

Artist Profile: The Five One

2011-04-07T14:12:00.000-07:00

Forming in Reston, Virginia The Five One crafted their music, a mix of hip hop, R&B, reggae and indie rock, in a basement full of guitars, a drum set and recording equipment. The multicultural, genre-hopping approach carries over into the The Five One's personal philosophy as well. Each member goes by only different colors--guitarist Red, drummer Blue, keyboardist/vocalist Green and bassist Gold--to distance themselves from the complexities of social identities.

The group toured relentlessly around the DMV (Washington D.C., Maryland and Virginia) area, performing at the Afro Punk Festival in 2008 with a diverse lineup that included Janelle Monae, Saul Williams and Murs.

They attracted more attention with their Road To SXSW digital album, which featured remixes and remakes of songs from an eclectic range of artists ranging from Janet Jackson's "Got 'Til It's Gone," Daft Punk's "Need You Now," Vampire Weekend's "District of Colossus" and Outkast's "Spottieottiedopaliscious."

The Five One's latest single, the Semisonic-sampling "Closing Time," is set for release in June. Listen to it and watch the clip for the song below. You can listen to Road To SXSW and view the band's upcoming tour dates at the band's official site.

&lt;p&gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;a href="http://thefiveone.bandcamp.com/track/closing-time"&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;Closing Time by The Five One&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&lt;/p&gt;

Watch The Mynabirds Mini- Tour Doc/Music Video "La Rain"

2011-04-07T12:52:00.000-07:00

Photographer/filmmaker Shervin Lainez captured some behind-the-scenes footage of The Mynabirds as they played several shows as the opening act for Bright Eyes, of which frontwoman Laura Burhenn is currently a member. New material from The Mynabirds will be coming soon--Burhenn is currently writing new songs, while the band is planning to head back into the studio with Richard Swift in September. Watch the black-and=white documentary/music video set to WWLITFWGITF's "La Rain" below:

Christopher Paul Stelling Announces Tour With The Loom, Drops New Single

2011-04-07T12:25:00.000-07:00

New York-based singer/songwriter Christopher Paul Stelling will be heading out on tour with six-piece Brooklyn-based indie folk rockers The Loom. Fans in NYC have a few chances to catch Stelling at his Rockwood Music Hall residency every Tuesday this month at 8pm, before the tour kicks off in May. Find out more about The Loom at their official website.

The singer is also channeling his inner Radiohead by releasing a new single "Solar Flare" on his bandcamp as a pay-what-you-want download. View the list of tour dates and download "Solar Flare" below.

&amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;a href="http://christopherpaulstelling.bandcamp.com/track/solar-flares"&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;solar flares by Christopher Paul Stelling&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;gt;

4/12 - NEW YORK, NY - Rockwood Music Hall, Stage 1
4/19 - NEW YORK, NY - Rockwood Music Hall, Stage 1
4/23 – BUTLER, PA – Butler Art Center (AABC)
4/26 - NEW YORK, NY - Rockwood Music Hall, Stage 1
5/01 – New York, NY – Scratcher Bar (7pm)

Tour Dates w/ The Loom
5/07 – Annandale-on-Hudson, NY – TBD
5/08 – Buffalo, NY – The Vault
5/09 – Pittsburgh, PA – Garfield Artworks
5/10 – Indianapolis, IN – Birdy’s
5/11 – Madison, WI – Project Lodge
5/12 – Chicago, IL – Pancho’s (w/ Paleo, Hølas)
5/13 – Philadelphia, PA – Danger Danger Gallery (w/ Psalmships)

Album Review: HolyGhost!

2011-04-06T16:37:00.000-07:00

Holy Ghost! first peaked the ears of audiophiles with "Do It Again," a first-class slice of sonic wizardry crammed with shimmering synths, a ferocious bassline and beats all topped off by an "oh oh oh's" that could only be described as deliriously psychotic baby laughter.

The duo provide plenty of heading spinning tricks on other tracks. "It's Not Over" and the ironically titled "Slow Motion" practically spill over with stacks of booming tom tom drums, frenetic keyboards and at one point, an oddly poignant brass solo. "Static On The Wire," features an elastic bass, smooth falsetto vocals, warm chords and fiery guitar solo, provides a sleek, sultry groove ideal for late nights, and the breathy "Say My Name" give offs a cool, laid back vibe.

But the album's focus turns consistently to pop melodies and more traditional song structure. This was a wise choice, as pulling back the production theatrics leaves room to concentrate on the lyrics, which focus on themes of love, betrayal and loss. "Well you promised/To be honest with me/Were you being honest/Tell me honestly," singer Alex Frankel pleads in "Wait and See." Backed by heavy synthesizers and a slowing pumping bass, the track rides a twinkling melody that echoes in the guitars, samples and keyboards and builds into a giant, Phil Specter-esque melodic sound wall.

Dripping with early 80's new wave sheen, clean, angular guitars and all, "Hold My Breath" mines the same paranoid territory, with Frankel repeating "Took some money from the joint account/I know I know I know I'm runnin' out but/I found a woman in a photograph/Good guess, good guess, good guess." The emotional "Jam For Jerry" laments the untimely death of the band's drummer. "It surrounds me/Drowns me in it/If I change it all I would/If only I could," he sings mournfully.

If any track seems to meld Holy Ghost!'s pop ambitions with sheer sonic audacity, it's album closer "Some Children." Somber chorus harmonies weave in and out over a bouncy, grooving bassline, while jittery synths flutter by and rise and fall from the shadows. All while Michael McDonald serves as guest star vocalist....oh yeah, that Michael McDonald. The song manages to be cutting edge, catchy, joyously danceable and beautifully melancholic all at once.

Holy Ghost! is a frighteningly hooky, compulsively listenable debut that dares you not to bust a move.

5/5

Holy Ghost! Live Album Stream

2011-04-06T13:50:00.000-07:00

Can't wait to hear Holy Ghost!'s self-titled debut? Well you're in luck, as Hype Machine is streaming the band's album in its entirety. The disc will officially hit the streets on April 21st. The duo are also in the midst of a tour with fellow dance-rockers Cut Copy. View the tour dates below, and listen to the album HERE.

04/07 – Toronto, ON – Sound Academy
04/08 – Chicago, IL – Riviera
04/09 – Minneapolis, MN – First Avenue
04/12 – Seattle, WA – Showbox Sodo
04/13 – Portland, OR - Branx #
04/15 – San Jose, CA – Blank Club #
04/16 – San Francisco, CA – The Grand Ballroom
04/17 – San Francisco, CA – The Grand Ballroom
04/18 – Los Angeles, CA – Echoplex (Check Yo Ponytail) #
04/20 – Dallas, TX – Granada Theater
04/21 – Austin, TX – Stubb’s
04/22 – Austin, TX – Stubb’s
04/23 – New Orleans, LA – Republic
04/29 – Brooklyn, NY – Music Hall of Williamsburg

# = without Cut Copy

They Might Be Giants Drop New Single, Set To Release Advance Tracks

2011-04-06T12:28:00.000-07:00

They Might Be Giants have released a new track, "Can't Keep Johnny Down," the first offering from their new album Join Us, set for released on July 19th. To give fans a little preview, the band has decided to released advance copies of several tracks on iTunes' "Complete My Album" on April 26th.

Along with "Can't Keep Johnny Down," there's the electro-ballad "Never Knew Love" and the pure folk pop of "Old Pine Box," which features timeless hooky elements such as harmonies, handclaps and vocoder.

While the band's name may not immediately jog your memory, if you've been watching TV anytime for the past decade and a half you've heard their music. The group has composed themes for The Daily Show With Jon Stewart and Malcom In The Middle, the latter of which won them Grammy. Listen to and download "Can't Keep Johnny Down" below.

Cant Keep Johnny Down by They Might Be Giants

Poly Styrene "Thrash City"

2011-04-06T11:15:00.000-07:00

Poly Styrene's latest single "Thrash City," a hooky slice of pop punk premiered on Rolling Stone yesterday. The track is the first single from the singer's forthcoming album Generation Indigo, set for release on April 26th and produced by Youth, best known for his work with The Verve, Killing Joke, The Fireman and Edwyn Collins. Listen to and download "Thrash City" below.

Thrash City by Poly Styrene

New Music: Scattered Trees "Sympathy"

2011-04-05T18:06:00.000-07:00

In more new music news, Scattered Trees' latest album Sympathy is out as of today. To commemorate the album's release, AOL is currently streaming the entire disc online.

The band has also made their anthemic track "Four Days Straight" available for free download. In addition to that, the group has also created four videos for "Four Days Straight," with the help of four NYC film students, and is holding a contest on Consequence of Sound for fans to select their next video. Click here to view the videos and cast your vote.

As for the new album, Sympathy finds the band on introspective ground, with deeply personal lyrics that explore the perennial subjects of love and loss. Musically the band has incorporated lush multi-part harmonies, orchestral grooves and even a mandolin to create a sound that is by turns driving rock and slow-burning melancholy. Listen to and download "Four Days Straight," and look at the band's tour dates below.

Four Days Straight by Scattered Trees

04/09: KANSAS CITY, MO @ Middle of the Map Festival (The Union - 10:00pm)

04/30: CHICAGO, IL @ Schubas (Sympathy Album Release Show sponsored by Consequence of Sound)
05/13: DES MOINES, IA @ Vaudeville Mews
05/20: GRAND RAPIDS, MI @ Pyramid Scheme
07/31: CHICAGO, IL @ Taste of Lincoln Avenue

Unkle's "Only The Lonely" EP Released Today

2011-04-05T17:45:00.000-07:00

Today marks the release of UNKLE's five-song EP Only The Lonely. All the new songs were a collaboration with Nick Cave, who'd long been a fan of the band's work.

“I always had a huge soft spot for UNKLE - their pop sensibilities, their hooks, big choruses, their super-treated production - so when they sent me some music to sing over I jumped at the chance," Cave said. "The song they sent was great too - something wonderfully dense about it, like T Rex's Metal Guru or something. I wrote a lyric - something desperate sounding to run counterpoint to the joyful racket of the music. It's a fucking hit.”

Cave contributed vocals and lyrics on the track "Money And Run." Other guest stars include The Duke Spirit's Liela Moss, Gavin Clark and ex-Sleepy Sun member Rachael Fannan. You can stream the entire EP over at AOL. But if you want a single-song sample, listen to "Money and Run" below. You can also view the tour dates and the album's tracklisting.

Money And Run (feat. Nick Cave) by UNKLE

Only The Lonely Track listing:
01. Money and Run (feat. Nick Cave)
02. The Dog Is Black (feat. Liela Moss)
03. Only The Lonely (Dub)
04. Wash The Love Away (feat. Gavin Clark)
05. Sunday Song (feat. Rachel Fannan)

UNKLE live dates:
04/08 Principal Club - Thessaloniki, GR
04/09 Fuzz Club – Athens, GR
04/29 Billboard – Melbourne, AUS
04/30 Groove In The Moo – Bendigo, AUS
05/01 Groove In The Moo – Townsville, AUS
05/03 Hi-Fi Brisbane – Brisbane, AUS
05/05 Powerstation – Auckland, NZ
05/07 Groove In The Moo – Maitland, AUS
05/08 Groove In The Moo – Canberra, AUS
05/09 Sydney Opera House – Sydney, AUS
05/11 Bakery – Perth, AUS

extra:
04/30 + 05/01 UNKLE art installation at the Camden Crawl

Company Of Thieves Announce New Album, On Tour With The Whigs

2011-04-05T10:27:00.000-07:00

Chicago-based band Company Of Thieves have announced that their new album, Running From A Gamble, will drop on May 17th. To celebrate the new disc, the band has also released a free MP3 of the album track "Modern Waste."

A follow up to 2009's Ordinary Riches, Running From A Gamble was spearheaded by singer Genevieve Schatz and guitarist Marc Walloh, who wrote much of the new material. “The album is a coming of age adventure about the mysterious, passionate and painful transition from dependence and enchantment to autonomy and awareness,”Genevieve says. The album's first single, "Death of Communication," will be released to radio later this month.

Company of Thieves are currently on tour with The Whigs, and are set to play a gig with Hall and Oats at Highland Park for Illinois' Ravinia Festival on June 26th. Listen to and download "Modern Waste" and look at the list of tour dates below.

Modern Waste by Company of Thieves

04/05 – Greensboro, NC – The Blind Tiger
04/06 – Norfolk, VA – The Jewish Mother Backstage
04/07 – Richmond, VA – Capital Ale House
04/13 – Charleston, SC – The Pour House
04/14 – Charlotte, NC – Neighborhood Theater
04/15 – Whitesburg, KY – Summit City Lounge
04/17 – Wilmington, NC – The Soapbox
04/25 – Memphis, TN – Hi Tone Café
04/26 – Fayetteville, AR – George’s Majestic Lounge
04/27 – St. Louis, MO – Off Broadway Nightclub
04/28 – Indianapolis, IN – Radio Radio
04/29 – Iowa City, IA – Blue Moose Tap House
04/30 – Kansas City, MO – The Riot Room
05/01 – Tulsa, OK – The Marquee
06/26 – Highland Park, IL – Ravinia Festival (w/ Daryl Hall, John Oates)

Break Science Remixes Nicki Minaj, Touring With Soulive And Chali 2na

2011-04-05T09:58:00.000-07:00

Brooklyn's own Break Science, made up of Adam Deitch and Borahm Lee, will be hitting the road for a massive U.S. tour through the spring and summer with Chali 2na, Soulive and others. The band also released a new remix for fans to devour, reworking rap superstar Nicki Minaj's "Moment 4 Life" into a monstrous dubstep workout.

Listen to and download the remix and view the list of tour dates below. You can also download Break Science's EP Further Than Our Eyes Can See at Pretty Lights Music.

BreakScience NickiMinajMoment4LifeRemix by Break Science

4/4 - Asheville, NC - Stella Blue Upstairs
4/5 - Greensboro, NC - Greene Street Club
4/6 - Charleston, SC - The Pour House
4/7 - Athens, GA - New Earth Music Hall
4/8 - New Orleans, LA - Tipitina's Uptown
4/9 - Tallahassee, FL - The Engine Room
4/10 - Jacksonville, FL - Club TSI Discotheque
4/15 - Carlisle, PA - Dickinson College
4/16 - College Corner, OH - OxFest at Hannon's Camp America
4/19 - Boulder, CO - The Boulder Theater
4/20 - Fort Collins, CO - The Aggie Theater
4/21 - Breckenridge, CO - Three20South
4/22 - Vail, CO - Agave
4/29 - New Orleans, LA - The Temple
4/30 - New Orleans, LA - House Of Blues Parish
5/5 - New Orleans, LA - Contemporary Arts Center
5/7 - New Orleans, LA - Republic
5/12 - New York, NY - Highline Ballroom
5/13 - Los Angeles, CA - Nokia Theater
5/14 - San Francisco, CA - The Fillmore
5/15 - Arcata, CA - Arcata Theater
5/17 - Portland, OR - Wonder Ballroom
5/18 - Crystal Bay, NV - Crystal Ballroom
5/19 - Salt Lake City, UT - State Room
5/20 - Denver, CO - Cervantes
5/21 - Denver, CO - Cervantes
June 30-July 3 - Rothbury, MI - Electric Forest
July 7-10 - Mariaville, NY - Camp Bisco

New Video: Mary J. Blige "Someone To Love Me (Naked)"

2011-04-04T17:55:00.000-07:00

Mary J's new single didn't knock me over at first, but after a few listens it's started to grow on me, despite the fact that it features Diddy (yes I know he helped create certified R&B classics What's The 411? and My Life, but ever since he's been the oil to Mary's water when it comes to collaboration. Love and Life anyone?).

Lil' Wayne also dropped a guest verse on the track, which has bouncy, bass-driven beat but still manages to have a haunting edge to it. It's reminiscent of My Life/Share My World-era sound. According to Vibe, Mary's working with Ne-Yo, Raphael Saadiq and J.U.S.T.I.C.E. League. With Beyonce working with noise pop masters Sleigh Bells on her new album, it looks like 2011 could be the year of the R&B diva. Watch the video below:

New Music: Javelin "Cowpoke"

2011-04-04T11:10:00.000-07:00

Crate-digging connoisseurs Javelin have returned with a new track, the appropriately title "Cowpoke," which premiered over at Stereogum. The song is a complete 180 from the duo's usual R&B-influenced dance funk fun, instead drawing on a sound so country that you almost expect a tumbleweed to roll by while listening to it.

Javelin's new album Canyon Candy will be released on April 16th, Record Store Day. The band is also taking the western theme a step further by creating a companion video detailing the saga of a lone survivor of a wagon train massacre. You can contribute to band's project over at Kickstarter. View the pitch video below.

Canyon Candy will also be released as a Playbutton, a new, nonrecordable, nontransferable and portable music format in the shape of a button pin, preloaded with the album of your choice. Find out more about Playbutton here.

The group will also begin a short tour in May. View the list of dates and listen to/download "Cowpoke" below.

Javelin - Cowpoke by Javelin

05/24 – Washington, D.C. @ DC 9*
05/25 – Baltimore, MD @ Sonar*
05/26 – New York, NY @ Mercury Lounge*
05/30 – Boston, MA @ Brighton Music Hall*
06/01 – Toronto, ON @TBC*
06/02 – Pittsburg, PA @ Shadow Lounge*
06/03 – Cincinnati, OH @ Midpoint Indie Summer Series @ Fountain Square
06/05 – Chicago, IL @ Empty Bottle*
* w/ Big Freedia

Darwin Deez, Wedding Present, Los Campesinos! To Play Long Division Festival

2011-04-04T10:18:00.000-07:00

Darwin Deez, Wedding Present and Los Campesinos! are part of the bill for a new music festival in Wakefield, set to launch this summer. The Long Division Festival will take place June 10-12 at six venues throughout Yorkshire city. Emmy The Great, Emma Pollock and iLIKETRAINS are some of the other acts on the bill.

For more info go to Longdivisionfestival.co.uk. View the full festival lineup at NME.com.

Architecture In Helsinki Rework Cut Copy, Get Remixed By Clock Opera

2011-04-04T09:55:00.000-07:00

Architecture in Helsinki remixed and recorded their own version of Cut Copy's "Need You Know," turning the dance floor burner into a psychedelic surf-pop track. And to keep the remix lovefest going, AIH gave their new track "Contact High" over to up-and-coming Brits Clock Opera for a reworking.

"Contact High" is the first single from Architecture in Helsinki's album Moment Bends, set to drop on May 3rd. Fans will get plenty of chances to groove to the new music on the band's summer tour, which kicks off in Los Angeles on June 1st. View the list of tour dates and listen to AIH's version of "Need You Know," their original version of "Contact High" and Clock Opera's remix below.

Contact High by Architecture In Helsinki

Contact High (Clock Opera Remix) by Clock Opera

Need You Now Architecture in Helsinki Version by Architecture in Helsinki

06/01: Los Angeles, CA @ Henry Fonda Theater
06/02: San Francisco, CA @ Great American Music Hall
06/03: San Francisco, CA @ Slims
06/04: Portland, OR @ Wonder Ballroom
06/05: Vancouver, BC @ Venur
06/06: Seattle, WA @ Neumo's
06/09: Minneapolis, MN @ Varsity Theater
06/10: Chicago, IL @ Lincoln Hall
06/11: Toronto, ON @ Mod Club
06/12: Montreal, QC @ Le Tulipe
06/13: Boston, MA @ Paradise Rock Club
06/15: Brooklyn, NY @ Music Hall of Williamsburg
06/16: New York, NY @ Webster Hall
06/17: Washington, DC @ Black Cat
06/18: Philadelphia, PA @ World Cafe Live

Vid Pick: Vandaveer-The Nature Of Our Kind

2011-04-04T09:22:00.000-07:00

Take a look at the video for alt-folk artist Vandaveer's single "The Nature of Our Kind." French duo Pierre Dejon and Just Phillippot directed the clip,capturing footage of vocalist Mark Charles Heindinger and bandmate Rose Guerin backstage and onstage during their U.S. tour back in January.

"The Nature Of Our Kind" is the first offering from Vandaveer's forthcoming album Dig Down Deep, set for release on April 26th. The band will also be hitting the road on May 1st for a spring tour with Ferraby Lionheart. Watch the video and view the full list of tour dates below.

04/08: Toulouse, France @ Le Saint Des Seins *
04/09: Pau, France @ Le Showcase *
04/10: Marmande, France @ Off Garorock Festival *
04/11: Bordeaux, France @ Secret Soiree: Drenched In Bordeaux *
04/12: Saint Nazaire, France @ Le VIP *
04/13: Clermont Ferrand, France @ La Coopérative de Mai *
04/14: Besancon, France @ Les Passagers du Zinc *
04/15: Lyon, France @ Festival Echo Orange *
04/16: Paris, France @ Café de la Danse *
04/17: Paris, France @ La Blogotheque’s Secret Soiree *
04/19: Palma de Mallorca, Spain @ Café Lisboa *
04/23: Rouen, France @ Le 106 *
04/24: Lion sur Mer, France @ Le Fabrique *

05/01: Philadelphia, PA @ Kung Fu Necktie #
05/03: Boston, MA @ TT The Bears #
05/04: New York, NY @ Venue TBA #
05/05: New Hope, PA @ Triumph Brewery #
05/06: Brooklyn, NY @ The Rock Shop #
05/07: Pittsburgh, PA @ Brillobox #
05/10: Cleveland, OH @ Beachland Tavern #
05/11: Chicago, IL @ Empty Bottle #
05/12: Bloomington, IN @ The Bishop #
05/13: Newport, KY @ Parlour @ The Southgate House #
05/14: Lexington, KY @ Natasha's #
05/15: Louisville, KY @ Uncle Slaytons #
05/16: Nashville, TN @ The Basement #
05/18: Roanoke, VA @ Kirk Ave Music Hall #
05/20: Charlottesville, VA @ Twisted Branch Tea Bazaar #
05/21: Washington, DC @ IOTA #
05/22: Baltimore, MD @ The Metro Gallery #

* w/ Cheyenne Marie Mize
# w/ Ferraby Lionheart

Mercury Rev Reissues "Deserter's Songs," Drops Free MP3

2011-04-04T08:58:00.000-07:00

Mercury Rev announced they would be reissuing their seminal 1998 album Deserter's Songs on May 16th. The new release comes complete with a 13-track bonus disc made up of B-sides, rare tracks and outtakes. Deserter's Songs marked a turning point in the band's sound, eschewing the harsh noise of their previous music for jazz, folk, 60's rock and Disney's soundtrack to Fantasia to create a lush, orchestral sound.

The album not only earned rave reviews from critics, but served as Mercury Rev's commercial breakthrough in the U.K. and Europe, producing three top 40 hits for "Goddess On A Highway," "Holes" and "Opus 40." View the full tracklisting below, and listen to "Opus 40."

Opus 40 by Mercury Rev

Tracklist:

Album:
1. Holes
2. Tonite It Shows
3. Endlessly
4. Collect Coins
5. Opus 40
6. Hudson Line
7. The Happy End (The Drunk Room)
8. Goddess on a Highway
9. The Funny Bird
10. Pick Up If You're There
11. Delta Sun Bottleneck Stomp

Bonus Disc:
1) Piano vs. Telephone (Cassette Tape Player Demo)
2) Holes (Bill Laswell 1998 Remix)
3) Pick Up If You're There (DJ Nickel 1998 Remix)
4) Endlessly (Tascam 8-Track Reel to Reel Demo)
5) A Soft Kiss (for waking up) (Cassette Tape Player Demo)
6) Tonite It Shows (Tascam 8-Track Reel to Reel Demo)
7) Looking Back Now, I Can See (Unreleased Mix)
8) Opus 40 (Early Rough Version)
9) Hudson Line (Early Rough Version)
10) Judging By The Moon (Cassette Tape Player Demo)
11) Goddess On A Hiway (1989 Cassette Tape Player Demo)
12) Night On Panther Mountain (Unreleased Mix)
13) Delta Sun Bottleneck Stomp (Early Rough Version)

Remix Of The Week: DATAROCK "California (Souldrop Remix)"

2011-04-01T17:34:00.000-07:00

Check out the remix of DATAROCK's track "California," from their recently released EP of the same name. The Souldrop mix transform the track into a other-worldly dancefloor epic. Listen below:

California-Souldrop RMX by DATAROCK

Video: Dot Freestyling In The Studio

2011-03-31T12:37:00.000-07:00

Watch this video of Dot busting out a freestyle in the studio. The NYC rapper is set to drop a video for his next single "Sunset In New York" soon.

Artist Profile: The Sounds

2011-03-31T11:45:00.000-07:00

Together since the late 90's, Swedish indie rock The Sounds were formed by four classmates, eventually recruiting keyboardist Jesper Anderberg, the band's youngest member, at the Hultsfred Festival. Since then the quintet has released three albums--2002's Living In America, 2006's Dying To Say This To You, and 2009's Crossing The Rubicon--that blend punk rock snark and new wave cool in a way that recalls Blondie and The Cars at their best.

The group has also attracted a celebrity following that includes Dave Grohl, who wore a Sounds T-shirt in the Foo Fighters' video for "Times Like These," Quentin Tarantino, Pharrell and Britney Spears. Their latest release, Something To Die For, continues in the new wave/dance-rock sonic soundscape, with rave-tastic rip snorters like "Better Off Dead," where the electronic effects are set off by huge blasts of fat brass. "

"The No No Song" reveals more of the band's gritty, rock n' roll side, with singer Maja Ivarrson snarling "In moments like these/Don't give a fuck/About you/Cause I've enough/It's not me, it's you." In "Dance With The Devil," another two ton dance floor banger, Ivarrson invokes the power of the beat, shouting "We conquer our planet with dance." A revolution under a groove. Listen to a few tracks below:

Find more The Sounds albums at Myspace Music

Find more The Sounds songs at Myspace Music

Find more artists like The Sounds at Myspace Music