Renaissance Men Don’t Surf

RMDS: Peter's Top Albums of 2006

2006-12-31T01:21:00.000-08:00

Well, this has been a whirlwind of a year for me, as far as "indie music" is concerned. Most of you loyal(right?) readers out there would have laughed at my iTunes at the begginning of 2006, as my indie cred was little to none. But thanks to a few friends (cough Jeff and Joe)I was able to get hooked up with all the good stuff I'd missed throughout the years. I spent most of the early months of the year enjoying the best stuff of 05, and by the time summer hit I was sucked into everything and anything '06. Blogs, leaks, and "lists" soon became the fixation of my thoughts. 2006 led me through many phases; my Joe-induced folk phase started it all, but soon transitioned into a summer phase filled with overflowing amounts of happy indie pop, and finally finished with a phase that included an all out love affair with dance beatz. I still love it all though, especially the "pop" as my list will indicate, but I'd say my tastes as a whole have become more ecclectic (I'm so trill), despite my innabilty to get through even one track on Scott Walker's The Drift - I'll keep trying though Jeff! So with that all said, here's my Top Albums of 2006, accompanied with my favorite song (sorry no mo3 as my bandwith has been exceeded - ugh, I said I'm sorry, geez), my favorite lyric from said song, and a mostly short write-up. Welp, Enjoy, and we will see ya on the other side.

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15. Annuals - Be He Me

Dry Clothes:

“Well Missy, sure you can look through my drawers. I've got nothing to hide. So, crying soul don't you tally the toll because where's the love in counting?”

For the longest time I insisted that this album was good, but front loaded, and therefore not worthy to make my top albums cut. But my boy Casey kept on bugging me to give it more of a chance; and sure enough, I did, and he was right. And although Casey still maintains “Complete or Completing” is the album’s standout, I can’t shake myself from LOVING the 2:00 minute mark on Dry Clothes, when the lid flies off, and the Annuals pour out every drop of energy left in their skinny little adolescent bodies, shouting the above lyric…ya, it’s infectious, you know it.

14. The Pipettes - We Are The Pipettes

Pull Shapes:

“Dance with me, pretty boy tonight / Dance with me, and we'll be alright / There's a whole floor before us, just for you and me / So follow my lead, and we'll 1-2-3 / Pull Shapes…”

I don’t think I could ever meet the Pipettes. I’d absolutely melt. Hands down the cutest album released this year. This album is sassy, fun, and dance worthy – in a 50’s sock hop kind of way. Come to the U.S. ladies– like, now.!

13. Destroyer - Destroyer's Rubies

Rubies:

“All good things must come to an end, the bad ones just go on forever…”

Who knows where this album would be on my list if I had gotten a hold of it earlier than October! Although Bejar’s crashing guitar riffs can sometimes wear on me, I force myself to sit through it solely for those beautiful moments of soaring bliss, which appear in almost every song. “Rubies” is the perfect example of this (and one of my favorite songs of the year); specifically at the 4:07 mark: pure bliss…ahhh, sooooo good.

12. Ratatat - Classics

Montanita

“Raaaaar” (From “Wildcat”)…that’s a joke. Har Har.

Who would have thought such a presumptuously titled album would almost live up to its name. The beats are funky fresh and the guitars are twangy, shimmering goodness. This album is like the printers these days that allow you to print, photocopy, scan, and fax: I could always wake up to it, dance to it, or do homework to it. Oh, these guys blast the hell out of the speakers live too. Neeeeaaat!

11. Ben Kweller - Ben Kweller

Sundress:

“Everybody's trying to be the best / What about the girl with loneliness / I like your sundress…”

Cheesy lyrics; perfect pop songs. Go ahead and make fun of me for liking Ben Kweller, I don’t care!

10. Kite Flying Society – Where Is the Glow?

Love & Seagulls:

“All of the trees make music for me, as green as the grass leading out to the sea / And in that time, so quiet divine, the foamiest friend is mine.…”

This album is simply delicious; just look at that lyric above. Mmmm. Drawing straight from the playbooks of the Beach Boys, Rogue Wave, and The Shins, local San Diegans’ Kite Flying Society released a debut record overflowing with sun kissed lyrics and breezy So Cal melodies. Where Is The Glow? was neck in neck with The Life Pursuit (see below) all summer long, vying for my “soundtrack of the summer” vote, and although they nearly missed, they still get mad props. Seeing these guys live outside on a sunny day in San Diego with a snow cone in hand was all I needed to solidify them in my top ten! I can’t wait for the next album guys!

9. The Blow – Paper Television

Parantheses:

“…And when you’re holding me we, make a pair of parentheses / There’s plenty of space to encase whatever weird way my mind goes / I know I’ll be safe in these arms / You’re not a baby if you feel the world /All of the babies can feel the world / That’s why they cry.”

Aside from releasing my favorite track of the entire year (see above mp3 and lyric), The Blow’s Paper Television delivers an all around assault to the musical senses, in the best way possible of course - filled with blips, bleeps, and the most charming, albeit sassy, pop melodies you’ve ever heard. I melt every time I listen to this album. Go ahead and take a listen, I guarantee you’ll want to dance, cry, and smile all at the same time.

8. Phoenix – It’s Never Been Like That

Rally:

“Standing in line, I think you're pretty / Lying on your bed, I think you're pretty too.”

Probably the only pure “indie rock” album you’ll find on my list, and even then, it’s more “soft rock” than anything. Similarly to my #2’s, these Frenchman don’t miss on any of the ten tracks. In an indie music world where originality seems to be the only thing that matters, Phoenix reminds us that sometimes simple and solid is just as good. It’s Never Been Like That is an instantly likeable album, overflowing with lyrics and guitar riffs that are bound to stick in your head.

7. Joanna Newsom – Ys

Cosmia:

“And all those lonely nights down by the river / Brought me bread and water, water in…”

…Similar to my number one album of the year, this only album has the ability to reach down, pick me up, and place me in a new world. When I close my eyes and listen to Ys I see dense wooded forests, and creatures I never knew were even fathomable. This album is something special and if I wasn’t so ADD, this would have been higher on my list – at least I can appreciate it!

6. The Decemberists – The Crane Wife

The Crane Wife 3:

“And I will hang my head, hang my head low…”

…The Decemberist’s best album to date also proves to be one of the best of 2006. Colin Meloy orchestrates a perfect blend of “pop” and “epic” that never left my musical pallet thirsty. The bookend tracks alone, “The Crane Wife 3” and “Sons and Daughters” provide an awe-inspiring beginning and end for the wonderful songs found in the middle. This album is a diverse, winding, epic tale brought to life via Meloy ‘n company. Well done, guys and gals, well done.

5. Josh Ritter – The Animal Years

Girl In The War:

“Because the keys to the Kingdom got lost inside the Kingdom / And the angels fly around in there but we can¹t see them / I got a girl in the war Paul…”

…The saddest, most sincere album of all 2006. Josh Ritter is an artist who flew under a lot of radars, but his deep, emotional lyrics which breathe sincerity deserve attention. This album moves along like a somber narration of a story set in the Midwest, evoking a wide range of emotions, namely bitterness. With wonderful production to accompany these lyrical flurries, the often simple musical arrangements still managed to hook me on nearly every song. While it’s evident Ritter doesn’t have all the answers figured out regarding life and God, it is evident that he knows how to make an excellent, genre-defying album.

4. Belle & Sebastian – The Life Pursuit

The Blues Are Still Blue:

“I've been creeping round this town because / Well, creeping's just my way (oh oh)…”

I’m not sure if I’m ready to jump on board with all the peeps saying this is Belle & Sebastian’s best album to date, because I personally believe If Your Feeling Sinister is one of the greatest albums ever made. BUT, that does not mean that this isn’t a damn fine record too, because it IS. Looking at the transformation of B&S from their early days to 2006’s The Life Pursuit demonstrates what an amazing band they really are. To pull off such a change from their spacey, soft twee pop days, to a cohesive indie pop album is an incredible feat. I could go on all day talking about how much these Swedes impress me (and often consume my listening habits), but I’m just going to tell you that The Life Pursuit was THE soundtrack of the summer, and also, one of the very best albums of 2006 – no matter what way you look at it.

3. I’m from Barcelona – We’re from Barcelona

Ola Kala:

“Have you ever felt that nothing's ever going your way? / Every good thing that you find is always running away”

I’m not going to lie, I’m pretty disappointed about how little end of the year respect I’m From Barcelona is getting. And don’t think this album is up on my list to spite the haters (read Pitchfork) either, because We’re From Barcelona has been nestled high atop my favorite albums list for quite some time. I think what’s happened is people try to write these guys off as just another impractical and goofy twee pop outfit; and yes that’s what it looks like on the outside, and sure 26 members isn’t all that practical, but these guys take on a certain level of consciousness in their songs that is not seen in your average indie pop group. While, groups like The Boy Least Likely To (whom I love equally to IFB), blissfully recount childhood scenes as if they are still living in them, I’m From Barcelona takes a reflective and nostalgic approach, often lamenting about childhood misfortunes (“Chicken Pox”) and realizing that they have to eventually grow up (“Rec and Play”). You are probably laughing in your chair at me right now, to even take indie pop this seriously, but that’s the only way to do it – because they take themselves seriously. Anyways, because of this said consciousness within the lyrics, We’re From Barcelona floats far above most pop albums; just listen to that chorus crash down in “Ola Kala” – don’t be afraid, because everything is going to turn to be okay. I’m From Barcelona sees it from all angles, and that’s what makes this album special: they can have fun and sing about tree houses, but deep down they realize they must grow up sometime, and it pains them – which despite what yawl may say, its pretty evident in every single melody and chord on this album.

2. Math and Physics Club – Math and Physics Club

Darling Won’t You Please Come Home:

“I love it when the coals burn way down low / You slide up next to me, so sweet, so slow”

Of all the albums I listened to this year, this is the only one that happened to nail me at just the perfect time. See it was October, and I was living in San Diego, and the closest thing to fall you can get in SoCal is a cool ocean breeze. Being from Colorado, I was desperately craving the changing colors of leaves, and the smell of warm apple cider. Luckily for me, Math and Physics Club’s self titled debut magically placed me in this fall wonderland that I had been longing for. Whether it was “Darling Won’t You Please Come Home” putting warm butterflies in my stomach or “La La La Lisa” epitomizing every single crush I ever had, this album complimented by mood to perfection nearly every listen. To boot, this is one of the few albums that I constantly listen to as whole – my Itunes shows upper twenties play counts on every song! Well anyways, don’t let my personal connection to this album fool you: MAPC’s s/t does not disappoint on any of its ten tracks as it essentially perfects soft, twee pop. This is a seasonal spreading, love and loss focused, mind blowing debut – BUY IT!

1. The Knife – Silent Shout

Silent Shout:

“Yes in a dream all my teeth fell out / A cracked smile and a silent shout”

By now, this is of course the trendy pick for album of the year, but I could care less. I think this album is special because it came full circle on me. The first time I listened to it on a rainy afternoon this summer in my car I was weird-ed the hell out by the album’s opener and title track “Silent Shout”, even though at the same time I was very intrigued. As I probed deeper into the album in the fall I found myself dancing to “We Share Our Mother’s Health” nonstop, and soon thereafter became enchanted with the mysteriousness of “Marble House.” Every piece of this album seem to fall perfectly into place for me, until I literally couldn’t get enough. No matter how many times I spin this album, I still always get taken to another world…and that’s about as articulate as I’m going to be able to get on something I love as much as Silent Shout – my album of the year.

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Honorable Mentions:
(which on any given day could have made it into the Top 15)

Russian Futurists – Me, Myself, and Rye, M. Ward – Post War, Suburban Kids with Biblical Names - #3, Danielson – Ships, Damien Jurado - Now That I'm In Your Shadow, Regina Spektor – Begin To Hope, Lucero - Rebels, Rogues & Sworn Brothers, Rocky Votolato - Makers

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Well, that's it for 2006 folks. It's been a great year. I've learned alot, and despite the half-assed nature of this blog, it really has been a good endeavor. Unfortunately I don't know if it will survive, being that I am going to be leaving for Spain for 5 months (from Jan 5th to June 7th), and to tell you the truth, blogging is going to be the least of my concerns! Well, maybe if you bug Joe enough, he might become the posting machine that I know he is deep down inside and RMDS will soon rival the likes of Pitchfork(quasi blog) and Sterogum. Scratch my hesitation, I'm sure of it. But regardless, it's been a fun time, and maybe I'll pick it back up this summer, who knows? Well, once again, have a Happy New Year, and don't forget to leave some comments. We lub 'um. Goodnight all.

RMDS: Joe's Top Albums of 2006.

2006-12-28T14:35:00.000-08:00

...with special guest Peter Miller providing filler noises such as "bonch" and "ween dog."

Well here we are again; there's only a few more days left in 06, and that means it's about time to finish up our year end list 'extravaganza' here at RMDS. While my list will be coming tomorrow, today we have Joe's picks for Best Albums of 2006. Following suit with all the other lists on the site so far, Joe's picks are great - whether it be in paying respect to his folk roots, giving a nod to some of the pop albums I always played on repeat, or professing his love for the epic hip hop releases of the year, Joe's list proves to be a nice recap of a year of great music. So scan his list, pick up a few mp3's at the bottom, and leave him some nice comments. Enjoy:

15. The Decemberists - The Crane Wife

14. Spank Rock - Yo Yo Yo Yo Yo Yo

13. Matt & Kim - S/T

12. mewithoutYou - Brother, Sister

11. The Blow - Paper Television

10. T.I. - King

9. Islands - Return To The Sea

8. The Game - The Doctor's Advocate

7. Girl Talk - Night Ripper

6. Sufjan Stevens - The Avalanche

5. Rocky Votaloto - Makers

4. Sunset Rubdown - Shut Up, I Am Dreaming

3. Josh Ritter - Animal Years

2. I'm From Barcelona - Let Me Introduce You To My Friends

1. Regina Spektor - Begin to Hope

Honorable Mentions:

Bonnie Prince Billy - The Letting Go
Ghostface Killah - Fishscale
Lily Allen - Alright, Still
Ratatat - Classics
The Mountain Goats - Get Lonely
Kite Flying Society - Where Is The Glow?
Band of Horses - Everything All The Time

Looking Forward to In 06:

1. Arcade Fire - Neon Bible
2. Arcade Fire - Neon Bible
3. Arcade Fire - Neon Bible
4. Arcade Fire - Neon Bible
5. Arcade Fire - Neon Bible

Various MP3's For Your Downloading Pleasure:

-mp3- The Decemeberists - The Crane Wife III
-mp3- Matt & Kim - Lightspeed
-mp3- The Blow - Parantheses
-mp3- Girl Talk - Hold Up
-mp3- Josh Ritter - Girl In The War
-mp3- Regina Spektor - Fidelity
-mp3- The Mountain Goats - Woke Up New
-mp3- Band of Horses - Funeral

RMDS: Skubic's Top Albums of 2006.

2006-12-23T03:40:00.000-08:00

Today, RMDS begins the first installment of our 3-part year end list extravaganza. Our first list comes from part time RMDS contributer, Skubic - and to say the least, I really like his list. Alot. It's bottom loaded with alot of solid alt-country rock that you may have missed this year, so please click on the band's name, and follow the link to check out some tasty, whisky drenched tunes. Alright enjoy, and look forward to Joe's picks in the coming days:

10. Girl Talk - Night Ripper (mp3- Hold Up)

9. Phoenix - It's Never Been Like That

8. I'm From Barcelona - Let Me Introduce My Friends

7. Destroyer - Destroyer's Rubies (mp3 - Rubies)

6. The Hold Steady - Boys and Girls in America

5. Lucero - Rebels, Rogues & Sworn Brothers (mp3 - Weight of Guilt)

4. The Head Set - Way Past Used (mp3 - Enemies)

3. Calexico - Garden Ruin

2. The Decemberists - Crane Wife (mp3- The Crane Wife III)

1. The Broken Family Band - Balls (mp3 - I'm Thirsty)

I highly recommend you check out The Broken Family Band (The best country band out of Cambridge!)...The Decemberists have managed to stay high on my list despite Stephen Colbert's attacks on their Literary Indie-Prog Rock-ness...Calexico just feels right for some reason, I think it has something to do with the fact that I eat Mexican at least 6 days a week...The Head Set are a great new band I have already talked up enough...& Lucero are always a good choice, and I already raved about them too.

So there you have it. Balls.

RMDS: Top Shows of 2006

2006-12-21T17:44:00.000-08:00

Well, as promised, here are RMDS' top 9 (yes, we like weird numbers to accompany our lists) live shows of 2006. We were fortunate enough to attend a grip load of shows this year, and thoroughly enjoyed nearly all of them, despite the ridiculous amounts of money we spent to attend them. Welp, here they are, with all my splendid photography to accompany them. Enjoy, and as always, we love your comments - even if they say "Go eat a dick." K. Here:

9. Lady Sovereign / June 14 / The Fox - Boulder, Co

Sure, the S.O.V. gimmick has run its course by now, but this doesn't change the fact that she is a natural performer. Maybe it was the alcohol, but her between song banter alone, deserves her this spot on our top shows list. Oh, and "Random" was a treat as well. Don't hate.

8. TV On The Radio / September 25 / Soma - San Diego, Ca

-Original Review-

Although Return To Cookie Mountain never really captivated Joe and I like it did the rest of the blogging world, these guys know how to jam live. Distorted and loud noise aside, TVOR managed to deliver on every song; especially in their back to back performance of "Province" and "Wolf Like Me." Mmmmm.

7. AIH and The Blow / September 16 / The Epicentre - San Diego, Ca

-Original Review-

Khaela from the Blow was as sassy and cute on person as she is on Paper Television, and despite not playing our fav "Parantheses," she still swooned and awed almost everyone there...Architecutre In Helsinki unleashed a set chock full of new songs on the unsuspecting audiance, and despite initial hesitations, it turned out to be the dancy goodness I had hoped for from the Aussies, just in a new and fresh kind of way. Yummmmmy...can't wait for their new album.

6. Iron & Wine @ Sasquatch / May 27 / The Gorge - Eastern Wa

Sam Beam owned the stage that day. With looming thunderclouds hovering above, he whisped through most of the Iron & Wine catalog. The Gorge proved to be just the perfect setting for tunes such as "Trapeze Swinger," and Joe and I both agree that Beam delivered an unforgettful performance.

5. Cold War Kids / June 22 / Larimer Lounge - Denver, Co

Ya, the inevitable 'Kids backlash is upon us. Even I turn up my nose when friends tell me how much they like Cold War Kids, but forgetting about this live set would be a crime. Although they had to open, CWK blew everyone else off the stage that night (Tapes and Figurines), as they doused every song with soul and energy.

4. Beck @ Sasquatch / May 28 / The Gorge - Eastern Wa

Maybe I'm biased because I was front row for this set, with thousands behind me, but this was a damn fine show. Beck demonstrated why he is an indie rock king, as he unleashed hits from his back catalog and at the time, the forthcoming Information. Oh, and do I really have to say anything besides "Puppets"? Nope.

3. The Faint, Ladytron, & Ratatat / December 7 / Palladium - Hollywood, Ca

The only "dance" or "electronic", if you will, show I've ever been too. And in a year, which saw my affinity for dance music ever-increasing, this was the climax. All three bands steamrolled through the hits ("Glass Danse", "Seventeen", and "Wildcat" - respectively), and when all was said and done, I was dripping in sweat due to the all out dance party that ensued throughout the night. Head and shoulders, the funnest show I've ever attended (It helps when you have 15 of your best friends there, btw!). Oh, the DJ's killed it in between sets too.

2. Wolf Parade / August 25 / The Wiltern - Los Angeles, Ca

-Original Review-

The whole RMDS crew saw this one, and we all agreed: these Canadaian indie rockers absolutely destroy it live. Krug 'n company's electrifying stage presence was an incredible expansion to Apologies. I'd be hard pressed to find a band that rocks harder than these guys live.

1. Sufjan Stevens / October 9 / The Wiltern - Los Angeles, Ca

-Original Review-

Predictable? Cliche? Yes. And like with all the other hype and backlash that Sufjan amasses, he still always delivers. With a full horn and strings section, Suf gave new context to all the songs - mostly off of Illinois and Seven Swans. The highlight was of course "Majesty Snowbird," which we here at RMDS can't wait to here once it's done in the studio. The performance once again solidified what a dynamic singer-songwriter, and now performer, that Sufjan Stevens is. In a year full of good shows, this one stood on top for us at RMDS!

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Well, that's it. I hope you enjoyed our choices and the pictures. Please leave comments if you'd like. Look forward to Mike, Joe, and I's year end lists in the next few days.

Arcade Fire - "Intervention"

2006-12-18T18:51:00.000-08:00

Grr. I was set on putting up my top live shows of 2006 up on the blog today, but my heart really wasn't in it, considering all I've done lately is play Arcade Fire on repeat. I'm not going to post the new song "Intervention" because it's everywhere already, but the hype machine (this link will direct you nicely) should help you unearth both the BBC Radio radio rip, as well as the old KCRW in-studio version. Both are fantastic, in their own respects, I might add.

Anyways, I just wanted to share with you the video of that said KCRW performance way back from 2004. It is a treat and I hadn't seen it posted anywhere so I thought you might like:

Oh, and if that doesn't get you excited about the forthcoming album, then these two tidbits should:

"According to sources, including MOJO magazine, the new album makes use of Pipe Organ, Military Choir, Hurdy Gurdy, a full Hungarian Orchestra amongst others. Win Butler described the album as sounding "like standing by the ocean at night."
-Wikipedia on Neon Bible

"Apparently the small group of people who have heard the album (in highly-secured listening sessions with band officials standing by, mind you) have said it’s fucking amazing (read: better than Funeral)..."
-Derek over at Good Weather For Airstrikes

Well that's about it for today. I'm going to get back to bonerizing over how good "Intervention" is and hopefully I will get my top shows up tomorrow. Sweet. Now go grab yourself some egg nog and enoy that nasty organ in all its epic glory.

RMDS: Top Songs of 2006

2006-12-14T12:33:00.000-08:00

Finals are over and Christmas is rapidly approaching - and we couldn't be happier here at RMDS. To celebrate, Joe (remember him?) and I have collaborated to create our Top 11 songs of 2006 - that we both were able to agree on. (Oh, before I forget, folloiwng our combined list will be some of the songs Joe and I specificially held close to our respective hearts). Anyways, enough with the filler: these our the songs that we conversed about endlessly on the phone over the summer, played on repeat in the dorm, and became devastated over when they weren't played live (see #5 and #2). These are our favorite songs of 2006 in all their epic, dancy, and retrospective goodness. Enjoy:

11. The Crane Wife 3- The Decemberists (mp3)
Critics can predict the decline of The Decemberists till the cows come home (I'm not convinced that said cows aren't mentioned somewhere on The Crane Wife), but as long as Collin Meloy delivers the goods melodically, I have a hard time getting concerned for Portland's finest. Insert joke about hanging my head here.
10. Trill - Clipse (mp3)
If any element of this song had been slightly mishandled, it could've been horrible. The beat is just dirty enough, the hook perfectly lazy, and Pusha T and Malice rap with just enough of a detached sense of "do you really think we're trying our hardest?" to convince listeners that they really are T to the RILL.
9. Snow (Hey Oh) - Red Hot Chili Peppers (mp3)
This song makes me sad. Real sad. Buy you don't have to be. That's just me. But I think everyone can enjoy that melting guitar riff, and the sooting "Hey Ohhh's" no matter what mood they are in. Right?
8. Sad Sad City - Ghostland Observatory (mp3)
Think 80's, synths, and the funkiest beatz you've ever heard...got it? Now you kind of have an idea of how good this song is. "Well I, need you...to want me, to hold me, to tell me the truth..." Try getting that out of your head. I sure can't.
7. Hold Up - Girl Talk (mp3)
I would only be repeating what better writers had already attempted when I to reflect upon the manic collage art of Girl Talk. This is the ultimate party song from the ultimate party album. It made me shake that laffy taffy and come to a fresh appreciation of both Nas and Rivers Cuomo. Also, this song contributed greatly to me making a fool out of myself to music. Long live pop music.
6. Woke Up New - The Mountain Goats (mp3)
If it's not obvious by the title, this is THE song to wake up too. Often Woke Up New was the only thing that could somewhat reconcile having to trudge through another 40 hour work week this summer. For this, I thank you Josh Darnielle; you know how to write a damn, fine song.
5. Lightspeed - Matt & Kim (mp3)
Lightspeed came out of nowhere to blow away RMDS and all our friends, and then they didn't even play it live. Ugh. (Insert sad smiley face here). Regardless, this song captures all of my little league sports angst and the increasing reality of growing up, and rolls it up into one ball of melodic retrospect. I lub you Matt & Kim.
4. Girl In The War - Josh Ritter (mp3)
I will admit it, I am suspicious of music in any way associated with Nashville. I often buy Paste Magazine, read the track listing of their sampler, get super intrigued, and then listen to it and quickly become super bored. Josh Ritter throws all of my west coast prejudice back in my face. He may be a little bit Nashville, but I hear some Dylan here, maybe even some Cohen. This song is an example of songwriting worth paying attention to, and of production that dresses up said songwriting without crushing it completely. I have a feeling that Josh Ritter might be showing up on end of the year lists a few more times before his career is over.
3. Fidelity - Regina Spektor (mp3)
The most hopeful, pristine pop vocal imaginable. I instantly associate this song with clear skies and sunny days and the general feeling of coming up for air. This song really shows the genius of Regina Spektor: she is just as comfortable making a radio-friendly, winningly produced piece of pop perfection as she is cranking out the piano ballads and anti-folk urban storytelling. Just watching people smile the first time the chorus hits is enough to earn this song the number 3 spot in a year chock full of great singles.
2. Parantheses - The Blow (mp3)
A song packed with more catches, hooks, and draws than anything I've heard all year. I can't even begin to describe how much I love this song, so I'm just going to give you the mp3, and some of the lyrics - if that doesn't convince you, than you are a hard ass who has never had a crush: “…And when you’re holding me we, make a pair of parentheses / There’s plenty of space to encase whatever weird way my mind goes / I know I’ll be safe in these arms / You’re not a baby if you feel the world /All of the babies can feel the world / That’s why they cry.” MELT.
1. Funeral - Band of Horses (mp3)
This song stands as clear reminder of the easiest way to make a great song great: lots and lots of build-ups and sudden changes in dynamics. Soft-Loud-Loud-Soft all the way. We here at RMDS found ourselves listening to this one while lying face down on the floor more than once. Almost as awkward a moment as when we played Girl Talk for our visitorrs...that's another story. But anyways, hands down, single of the year.

Pete's Top 10 Songs (that aren't seen above)
We Share Our Mother's Health - The Knife
The Start Of Something - Voxtrot
Province - TV On The Radio
Rough Gem - Islands
Rubies - Destroyer
Majesty Snowbird - Sufjan Stevens
Cosmia - Joanna Newsom
Click Click Click Click - Bishop Allen
My Love - Justin Timberlake
Antarctica - Antarctica Takes It!

Joe's Top 10 Songs (that aren't seen above)
Promiscuous - Nelly Furtado
Springfield - Sufjan Stevens
What You Know - T.I.
Street Lights - Rocky Votolato
In A Sweater Poorly Knit - mewithoutyou
Never Went To Church - The Streets
Gold Lion - Yeah Yeah Yeahs
Too Much - The Game
Kilo - Ghostface Killa
Bump - Spank Rock

Well, that about does it for now. Joe has a flight home to Seattle later today, and I have a long car ride to Colorado tonight. So wish us safe travels, leave us some comments regarding our picks, and look forward to our year end lists in a few days! ...oh, Happy Holidays!

Casey Dienel makes it all ok....

2006-12-12T01:05:00.000-08:00

Well... finals are tough, but Ms. Casey Dienel seems to make it all ok...

-mp3- Casey Dienel - Tundra (!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!)
-mp3- Casey Dienel - Better In Manhattan (Daytrotter Session)

Buy Wind Up Canary - quite possibly the best female solo album of 2006.

Look at me now...

2006-12-04T13:12:00.000-08:00

Ahhh, it is upon us. Or at least upon us student bloggers. Yes, finals is what I'm referring to - and when it rains, it pours. As you can tell, the blog is going to be taking a back seat for the next week or so as I devote my prescious time to studying and papers. But in order to not leaving you hanging too much, I've compiled a mini mix of songs I've been diggin' the hell out of lately. So sit back, grab some sweet songs, and check out some of the other fine blogs on my sidebar during my hiatus. Enjoy, and happy holidays:

Oh, all of these come with the highest possible recommendation peoples. Get downloading.

-mp3- Matt & Kim - Lightspeed (!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!)
-mp3- Destroyer - Rubies
-mp3- The Russian Futurists - Precious Metals
-mp3- Cat Power - Lived In Bars
-mp3- Horse Feathers - Dustbowl
-mp3- Charlotte Gainsbourg - The Operation
-mp3- The Knife - We Share Our Mother's Health (Ratatat Remix)

...mmm, egg nog.

I'm In Love With Your Brother

2006-11-29T00:09:00.000-08:00

I've really been getting back into The Knife lately. After just watching their phenomenal new DVD, "Silent Shout: An Audio Visual Experience," I have gained a new found appreciation for the Sweedish duo. Aside from the stunning live set, the DVD includes various music videos; and I found the one below to be incredibly fascinating.

The song, "Pass This On" from their Deep Cuts release, is filmed in what appears to be a banquet room. Although in alot of The Knife's videos the "meaning" is often hazy, this video accurately depicts the creepy lyrics in a successfully creepy way. The video begins with a transvestite(?) lipping the words of the song while seducing Olaf. Meanwhile, Olaf's sister and other member of The Knife, Karin, stares from her seat. What really makes this video stand out though, is the speed that is shot in. While the song moves along at normal speed, the people move in slow motion. Aghhh, just watch...it's trippy in so many ways:

Oh, here's a sweet remix of the above song too:
-mp3- The Knife - Pass It On (Dahlback And Dahlback Remix)

Buy all of The Knife's albums, they rule.

RTB? of the Day: East River Pipe

2006-11-28T00:03:00.000-08:00

As promised, I am beginning my new feature today that will be ongoing until I post my "albums of the year" list around Christmas. Being the not-so-creative guy I am, I will be calling it the "Remember This Band?" feature. So anyways, on to the good stuff...

I feel pretty silly not having heard of East River Pipe's 2006 release What Are You On? till just the other day. In fact, when I first got the album, I ignorantly assumed it was their debut. To my suprise, What Are You On?, is ERP's outsanding sixth LP. And although I am not familiar with any of the band's back catalog, I can assure you that this album, released way back in January, is something not to be forgotten during the hustle and bustle of year end lists. The opening two tracks are fantastic:

-mp3- East River Pipe - What Does T.S. Eliot Know About You?
This song really is instantly likeable. His eccentric, muffled voice accompanied with the perplexing lyrics are hard not to latch on to. I can't quite decipher what this song's meaning really is, but I pick up a hint of sarcasm regarding people who think they are really smarter than they actually are. Ahh, I have no clue. It's just a good song, work with me.

-mp3- East River Pipe - Crystal Queen
If Wayne Coyne and The Soft Bulletin had twins that were separated at birth, than this song would be the lost child. While "Race for the Prize" received the proper nurture and upbringing, "Crystal Queen" got lost in the rough. Despite his neglect, he still managed to maintain a simple likeability with its spacy vibe and distant synths. Now that this gem has finally been unearthed for all to hear, and it is his turn to shine. Although no 10.0 reviews will accompany him and his friends, it definitely deserves your ears!

Buy What Are You On?

The Home Stretch...

2006-11-27T00:03:00.000-08:00

No picture or "real post" today. Right now I am re-energizing, as it is now that stretch of post Thanksgiving break and pre school/finals assault. But...... I'm really excited about this next month of blogging, surpisingly enough. Over turkey break I received a ton of good albums from a few buds; albums that I had missed this year while I was in my indie-pop shell. So basically, I have tons and tons of albums I want and need to get around to hearing.

With that being said, from now until Christmas I will be revisiting albums from earlier this year that slipped past my radar and thus I will not be posting any "new" music per se, although "new" is a relative term considering it probably will be new to both you and me! Anyways, I know I'm not making any sense, I just wanted you to know what things will look like around here for the next month.

And then of course there is the end of year album list. Although alot of blogs will start putting theirs up real soon, I'm loing to wait until around Christmas, so I have time to make a good, solid list that reflects my favorite albums from the year. Sooooo, sit back, enjoy hearing about some bands you may have overlooked, and get ready for RMDS' album of the year list!

Oh, and to not leave you guys hanging, here is a song from a band you might have forgotten about. This is Phoenix's live version of their wonderful "Long Distance Call" that they did for KEXP the other day. Enjoy.

-mp3- Phoenix - Long Distance Call (Live on KEXP)

Oh, and leave a nice comment if you'd like.

The Skygreen Leopards

2006-11-21T23:07:00.000-08:00

Mmm, I'm finally back in my home state of Colorado, and it feels good to be home. Cold, but nonetheless still good to be home. Coincidently, The Skygreen Leopards couldn't have come into my life at a better time as their cozy folk-pop is already beginning to help me stay warm.

As far as I can tell, their 5th LP: Disciples of California, went virtually unnoticed in the blog world. The aptly titled album, released not too long ago (October 24) via JagJaguar Records, compiles eleven wonderfull songs which the site describe as a blend of "pop melodies, minimal country truisms, jingle-jangling Californianism and angular folk." Works for me! The title track, which also opens the album, is quite a treat for my ears, and now yours too:

-mp3- The Skygreen Leopards - Disciples of California
Right from the start this track invites you over next to the fire. It really wants to be friends with you, in a sincere Christian kind of way. With its warm, jangly guitar coaxing you near, it's tough not to get sucked in. The almost lazy-sounding vocals recreate an image not to far displaced from the fields of the above photo, and before you know it the 'Leopards got ya sitting down around the fire roastin mallow's with them! And this ain't all that bad...shmores anyone?

The Skygreen Leopards: Website / Myspace / More MP3's / Buy the Album

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Anyone else back home for Thanksgiving and gettin' all those weird nostalgic feelings of high school and such? I sure am. Time flies...

Clipse - "Trill"

2006-11-20T18:52:00.000-08:00

I have never got excited about a hip hop or rap release. Ever. Sure, I have those random mp3's scattered across my iTunes that you will hear at a club, but I've never been an enthusiast of the genre, not even in the slightest bit. Until now, that is.

See, I heard the buzz bubbling around Clipse's prolonged release Hell Hath No Fury. I heard little bits here, and little bits there about how good this album was going to be. The only hip hop blog I read, Cocaine and Blunts, rated this album way back in 2005 as his second most anticipated album of all of 2006 and Gorilla vs. Bear steadily sung it's praises. And then a couple a days ago Pitchfork wrote a track review on one of the songs on the forthcoming LP and I finally broke. The write-up made me gitty (in the most gangster way possible, that is) and I just couldn't resist getting my hands on this album. Luckily, what I soon discovered on my own, aligned directly with the hype and I couldn't be happier. Enjoy:

-mp3- Clipse - Trill
I don't know enough about hip hop to even come close to writing a good track write-up, so I am going to go ahead and once again direct you to that Pitchfork write-up which got me hyped on all this whole Clipse thing to begin with. I will say in my ignorance, though, that this is one of the illest beats I've ever heard, fronted by some equally incredible dark lyrics. This is gansta s*%t people. "Bitch I'm so trill..."

Bonus track: an extra sweet mash-up of another song you'll find on the LP...
-mp3- Clipse vs. CYHSY - Clap Your Hands Say Wamp Wamp

This album hits stores November 28! Go buy it. If it can give my view on the hip hop genre a full 360, you're sure to be able to find at least something you like:

**Buy Hell Hath No Fury**

Clipse: Website / Myspace / More MP3's

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I am heading home to Colorado tomorrow for Thanksgiving Break! I'm pretty sure I will still continue posting amidst all the yams and tryptophan though, so stick around and have a nice Holiday week.

Damien Jurado - "Denton Tx."

2006-11-19T23:19:00.000-08:00

When Joe first turned me onto Damien Jurado last spring I couldn't get enough. Rehearsal's For Departure soon became one of my favorite albums and I couldn't stop singing his praises. Needless to say, I was super excited for the oppurtunity to see him live at Sasquatch over Memorial Day Weekend. But for some reason his live performance didn't deliver; mainly because of the distorted amps and loud sound that droned out his cozy, Midwest appeal. I was quite dissapointed.

Upon hearing that his new album was going to hit stores in October of this year via Secret Canadian records, I got re-excited and hoped to enter myself in another Damien Jurado phase, like I had before. But after a spin or two through Now That I'm In Your Shadow, I was bored, disinterested, and once again disappointed.

...But here I am today: a changed man. For some reason I revisisted this album the other day and proceeded to get hit by it like a ton of bricks - something just clicked this time around and I have now fell in love with almost every track, soaking up every drop of its warm, depressing folk.

-mp3- Damien Jurado - Denton, Tx.
In the past few days I think every time I've opened up my iTunes I have immediately clicked on this song. Although the album is filled with sadness, this song might be the culmination of this feeling as it tells a story of a girl who has lost her dad and is now seemingly wandering through her life. Somehow Damien's music always seems to perfectly coincide with the angst and longing that he describes in his lyrics:

She has a dad she doesn't know
Who sends her letters with no return address...
"I don't know his name..."
"He don't know my face..."
"I am better off this way..."

...this song is no exception. With these lyrics resonating with loss, Damien crafts a beautiful song with alternating views of perspective within the song's narration. Gentle strumming and a casual piano are all that back the lyrics, but it's all it needs. As the song softly weaves in and out of various people's thoughts, it never ceases to reflect its lonely, remorseful tone.

Another track off of Damien's 7th and newest LP:
-mp3- Damien Jurado - What Were The Chances

My favorite Damien Jurado track, also coincidentally about loss:
-mp3- Damien Jurado - Ohio

Website / Myspace / Buy Now That I'm In Your Shadow / More MP3's

Ratatat Remixes Revisited

2006-11-17T00:39:00.000-08:00

With all the buzz this year around Classics, it's hard not to have heard of Ratatat from somewhere. But even I, being the pre-Classics fan I am, had not heard of the Ratatat Remixes Vol. 1 album which was released way back in 2004. On the album the duo takes thirteen popular (2004) hip hop album tracks and adds their well known shimmering guitar base and their trademark blips 'n bleeps. Anyways, I really like these remixes alot! As a few of my buds and I have discussed before, alot of time rappers and hip-hop artists don't always have the best ear for a good beat to accompany their lyrics and this album demonstrates how good a hip-hop song can be with a bumpin' beat. Here are a few standouts from the album. Enjoy:

-mp3- Ratatat - Kanye West : Get Em High
-mp3- Ratatat - Ghostface Killah & Jadakiss : Run

Also, an unrelated sweet Ratatat remix of an even sweeter song:
-mp3- The Knife - We Share Our Mother's Health (Ratatat Remix)

Ratatat: Myspace / Site
Buy: Ratatat Remixes Vol. 1
More MP3's from the Remixes

Magic Numbers - "Take A Chance"

2006-11-15T23:22:00.000-08:00

I'm not going to lie, I feel kind of silly not having heard of The Magic Numbers until a few days ago. The fact that these four Englishmen formed in 2002 and released their s/t debut in June of 2005 should show that I have been out of the loop. Well in my defense, I can say that now, if any time, is the perfect place to jump on the Magic Number's bandwagaon as they just recently released their wonderful sophomore album Those The Brokes on November 6th via Heavenly 100 records. Although it's a little bit of a tredge to get through the whole album, it does have a few front side gems that are definitely worth hearing. And just because I like you, I think I will share them with you today...

-mp3- The Magic Numbers - Take A Chance
This song isn't waiting for anyone. Right from the start the quick quitar and floating "Oohhh, Ohhh's" show that there isn't going to be any slowing down on this ride. Once the vocals hit, I can't help but hear a softer version of something that'd appear on Phoenix's It's Never Been Like That. And considering that Phoenix's third LP is one of my top albums of this year, it is clear how highly I recommend this song! Anyways, enough with the comparisons - The Magic Number's have that soft rock, indie pop sound down to perfection on this track and you need to listen up. Enjoy!

-mp3- The Magic Numbers - Boy
Mmm, tuck in the covers. It's time for a night lullaby. Oh, and don't get out of bed: "Don't you leave..."

The Magic Numbers: Site / Myspace
More tracks at The Hype Machine
Buy Those The Brokes @ Amazon

Page France - Live at HOB

2006-11-15T19:10:00.000-08:00

Ahh yes, after immersing myself in Page France's music for the past nine months it was quite the treat to finally see them live. Although they were sandwhiched in between local San Diegan's Kite Flying Society and the Anathallo brigade, I'm only going to write about my beloved Maryland indie-poppers because I've already reviewed each of the other's live shows. (If you'd like to check out my previous reviews on the other said bands, you can do so here and here!)

Before Page France even played their first song I was pretty dissapointed that they weren't headlining, but I tried not to let that get me down. Michael Nau 'n company came right out of the gate with "Junkyard" and my first reaction was how well Nau's voice came across live - crystal clear - just like on the records. From here Page France played a well balanced mix of tunes from both EP's and Hello, Dear Wind.

One of the highlights throughout the night were Nau's, perceived improvisiations on some of the songs. At the end of "Junkyard" he added multiple verses, which although I can't remember, I can still assure you were fantastic and a nice deviation from the expected. To close the night, the crew finished with "Chariot," but Nau added a few verses on to the end while using the catchy hook from "Feathers": "...and we will be a happy ending." Overall, the show completely delivered as Nau's clear voice and pleasant lyric additions were an excellent expansion to their recorded work. The night just solidified in my mind what a prolific singer/songwriter Michael Nau is, and why Page France is one of the best bands out there right now.

-mp3- Page France - Junkyard
-mp3- Page France - Bush

Setlist:
Junkyard
Say Wolf In The Summertime
Dogs
Pigeon (New Song!)
(Ahh, forget!)
Elephant
Antarctica
Windy
Chariot / Feathers

Page France Tour EP; Tonight @ HOB

2006-11-13T23:13:00.000-08:00

Mmm, yes. It has been long awaited here at RMDS to see our fav's Page France live in concert. And finally that day has come. Tonight Michael Nau and company will bring their breezy and Biblical indie pop all the way from the East Coast to the House of Blues in San Diego. Locals Kite Flying Society (who we saw live earlier) and up-n-commers Anathallo (who we also saw live earlier this year) will both also be playing.

Page France also recently announced that they'd be releasing a tour EP, entitled Tomato Morning, that will be available at all their upcoming shows. And luckily for you, I've got three of the four songs off the EP for your downloading pleasure. Enjoy and cya at the concert!

-mp3- Page France - Tomato Morning
-mp3- Page France - Without a Diamond Ring
-mp3- Page France - Who Cracked Your Egg

Check for a show near you...
Page France on Myspace
Kite Flying Society on Myspace
Anathallo on Myspace

Annuals 'n such...

2006-11-13T12:14:00.000-08:00

I'm sure most of you have undoubtedly already heard about these blog-buzzed, P-fork affirmed, experimental-indie rockers from North Carolina. No? Well they are the Annuals. Not "The Annuals," as they'll be quick to point out, but the Annuals. For those of you that have already heard about this band of 19 and 20 some-year-olds, I'm going to spare you the repetitive descriptions of their "hybrid sound" and "layered, dense pop music" - even if it is very true! What I really want, though, is to tune you into a song on their newly released album Be He Me that has me going crazy:

-mp3- Annuals - Dry Clothes
This song is a story. A story with brief foreshadows, character development, and sing-song themes. And like any good story, the climax is the hook - this song is in no way different. Listen to it build, hear the conflict bubbling all the way up to the 2:00 minute mark. And Bam! The lid pops off and the instrumentation is stripped down to a thumping beat and raspy vocals. Listen... ( I haven't air guitared / drummed this hard in a long time). But soon the climax is over, and the resolution proceeds. To bad all good stories must come to an end.

Annuals: Myspace
Buy Be He Me @ Insound
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How can something so simple be so perfect?
-mp3- Belle & Sebastian - Piazza, New York Catcher
...And I don't even like baseball!

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Utter Tings...

- Pitchfork makes it pretty clear who their album of the year is going to be. I don't really think I can argue.
- My Old Kentucky Blog has aggregated quite a few WOXY lounge acts. Mmm, reminds me why I like Ben Kweller's s/t so much.
- IGIF is kickin' it old school with their new Histery Mixery. Although the M83 "I Guess I'm Floating" track on the last segment is a bit self-indulging!
- Wellllll guyyyys and gallllls, that's it for today. I got a ton of new music I'm sorting through, look forward for more consistent posting to come!

When I Am Gone (Sparrow House and I)

2006-11-09T19:57:00.000-08:00

Wow, once again, another long stretch of non-existent blogging. I'd like to say it won't happen again, but stuff happens. Stuff such as: getting straight up spat on by EZArchive, spilling a pop on my keyboard, and getting swamped with presentations and papers...you get the idea: it's been rough. Well, luckily I have now snagged another free file hosting service, fixed my keyboard, and emerged from the depths of studying.

But don't be fooled, during this hiatus I have not stopped listening to music. In fact, after receiving my new external hard drive last week, I've been on a mp3 acquiring spree. And slowly and surely, I will theoretically sift through the junk and post all the good stuff that I'm realllllly enjoying. That's what this blogging's all about anyways, right? Anywayyyys:

I like Voxtrot. And not so coincidentally, I like Sparrow House: which is the moniker by which Voxtrot's Jared Van Fleet releases his beautiful solo material. Already swamped with Voxtrot touring and recording, Jared impressively plans on releasing four seasonal albums over the next year via Sparrow House. I happened to snag the aptly timed Falls EP the other day, and it does not dissapoint. It is filled with very enjoyable soft and intricate pop masterpieces such as this one:

-mp3- Sparrow House - When I Am Gone
To me this song has that same unexplainable appeal as an Elliot Smith song. I realize this could be considered blasphemy to some, but it's breezy, echoing lyrics and quick, catchy guitar don't seem too far displaced from Elliot's "Somebody That I Used To." Granted, Jared's voice doesn't have near the unique hook of Elliot's, it still manages to intrigue me in that same "complex, yet so simple" way. Ohhhh, I really like when the piano enters at the 1:20 mark tooooo. You won't be disappointed if you download this song, I promise.

Sparrow House: Website / Myspace
Buy the Falls EP @ the Website.

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...Utter Tings:

- Two of my favorite artists, The Shins and The Apples In Stereo, both have their 2007 releases leaked (oops!). And yes, I've snagged mp3's from both, and they are wonderful. Kinda dissapointing considering they'd both be in my top 10 of this year without a doubt. Ugh. Well my list will do without them I guess. Oh, by the way, if you happened to acquire these said albums, I'd highly recommend "Red Rabbits" and "Energy," respectively.

- Ryspace, my favorite place for quality live downloads, ripped a very intriguing Sufjan KEXP set from ages ago. One track includes probably my two favorite Sufjan songs ever in back-to-back, lo-fi greatness. Thanks Ryspace and Enjoy:
-mp3- Sufjan Stevens - For The Widows In Paradise + He Woke Me Up Again

- The wonderful people over at Good Weather For Airstrikes have figured out their hosting situation and have uploaded their 11'th installment of the M3 mixes, go check it out!

- Oh, and I was curious on your thoughts on Borat. I saw it over the weekend, laughed my ass off, and then walked out and said I didn't like it! What's your take...?

Benjy Ferree: In the Countryside

2006-10-31T15:10:00.000-08:00

Geez, it's been almost a full week since I last posted and that's unacceptable! It's been a combination of being busy and the whole not-so-EZ archive deal (haha). Anyways, no more excuses. We are back to the good stuff...

I don't know much about Benjy Ferree. In fact I don't even have his full debut LP, Leaving The Nest, which is to be released on Domino Records November 7th. But even after just hearing a few songs, I do know that I abosultely love Benjy's spin on the whole indie alt-country rock thing. If this song is any indication of the album's likeability, than look for Benjy to turn some heads and make some lists by the end of the year. For fans of Ramona Corodova, Page France, Josh Ritter, Ben Kweller, etc...Enjoy!

-mp3- Benjy Ferree - In The Countryside
Hearing this song for the first time, reminded me of the first time I heard Page France. It must be something about lo-fi recordings and nasally, unique voices. Aside from the song's title, it isn't hard to imagine this song taking place in the Midwest - and goodness golly - good-clean-fun has never sounded so good! If your not bobbin your head, whistlin', and clickin your cowboy boots together by the end of this quick sing-song jam, than you need to lighten up partner!

-mp3- Benjy Ferree - Private Honeymoon

Benjy's Site
Be his myspace friend
Pre-order Leaving the Nest

You Needed More?

2006-10-25T16:49:00.000-07:00

I know, I know - all the hip kids already posted on The Sleepy Jackson way back when their sophomore album was released in July. I, however, being the ignorant blogger that I am, just got this album the other day - and "better late than never" has never been so applicable. The Sleepy Jackson's newest album, Personality: One Was A Spider, One Was A Bird, is a masterfully orchestrated pop masterpiece. Its quirky lyrics and endless amounts of delicate musical subtelties create an incredibly diverse album that is enjoyable all the way through. So come on, get over the gay album art, and dig in:

-mp3- The Sleepy Jackson - You Needed More
Kicking off the album, this track shows the first of many faces to the aptly titled album. Channeling a little bit of Animal Collective's Feels and some 1960's pop, "You Needed More" starts with Luke Steele's vocals echoing over some drizzling ambience. From there, the drizzle turns into an all out pour; and before this song ends, you will have been (happily) drenched in some of today's most innovative pop! And just in case you needed more (har har!), there's twelve more excellent songs to be enjoyed.

Here's one of them:
-mp3- The Sleep Jackson - God Lead Your Soul

Buy Personality: One Was A Spider, One Was A Bird from AmpCamp
The Sleepy Jackson Site
Be friends with The Sleepy Jackson

Darling, Won't You Please Come Home

2006-10-23T16:50:00.000-07:00

It's been awhile since an album has really completed me. I know that sounds like an over-dramatized statement, but the new self-titled Math and Physics Club album has essentially engulfed me of late. I find myself listening to it when I wake up, when I go to bed, when I am wishing for fall weather in Southern California, and basically, whenever else I feel like it! MAPC isn't necesarrily doing anything new (see Lucksmiths and B&S), but something about its perfected soft, delicate pop sound seems to grab ahold of me on every single one of the ten tracks. The lyrics are perfect for an anguished teen, as it discusses relationships and heartbreak in numerous seasonal settings. This album is a must have for not only fall, but for 2006. Look for this album on my end of the year lists and enjoy this beautiful song!

-mp3- Math and Physics Club - Darling, Please Come Home
Everything on this track seems to fit in to place perfectly. Jangly guitars and a hushed pop melody accompany the lyrics of a lovestruck boy longing for his love to come home. Like all the other songs on the album, this one takes on a specific seasonal feel with the descriptions of the sun setting and the fireflies outside. The culmination of this aesthetic occurs at the 1:25 mark when the song shifts pace and lead singer Charles Bert whispers: "I love it when the coals burn way down low / You slide up next to me, so sweet, so slow." If this isn't the anthem for a fall romance, I don't know what is. Mmmm, darling, won't you please come home?

Here's another song from their 2005 Movie Ending Romance EP:
-mp3- Math and Physics Club - Movie Ending Romance

MAPC's Site
Be Their Myspace Friend
Buy their EP's and Math and Physics Club at Matinee Record

Ode to fall: A Mix.

2006-10-22T22:39:00.000-07:00

Oh fall...what a season! And a season that calls for a playlist. Fall carries a somewhat odd musical mood in my mind. Fall for me should be filled with calm melodies and energetic vocals; epic songs that you can listen to on the way back from a football game or on the way to a 12 oclock horror movie. See, good fall music has a big responsibiliy on its personified shoulders. It has to be able to ease you off your summer loves and your huge summer twee phase, and into drinking coffee and wearing sweaters. But it's job doesn't stop here. Fall music must then also transition you into the snowy and dark winter acoustics. Quite the daunting task, if you ask me, for this fall music to take on.

So, if your scratching your head as to what kind of songs could possibly evoke such a complex mood, then this playlist should be of some assistance. From Belle and Sebatian's upbeat poppy fall anthem to The Decemberist's gritty ode to love, this playlist is bound to get you into the mood for warm cider and walks through parks painted orange and red with fallen leaves! So grab your scarves, bundle up, and have a wonderful fall. I hope you enjoy. :D

-mp3- Belle & Sebatian - Women's Realm
-mp3- Casey Deinel - The La La Song
-mp3- Chas Mtn. - Cinematic Unbearable
-mp3- Desaparecidos - Whats New For Fall
-mp3- Destroyer - No Cease Fires
-mp3- The Decemberists - Clementime
-mp3- Grizzly Bear - On A Neck On A Spit
-mp3- Headlights - Put Us Back Together
-mp3- Jose Gonzales - Hearbeats
-mp3- Tunng - Code Breaker
-mp3- Unkown - Cherokee

*Also, a special thanks to Natasha for pulling together this post. Look for some posts from her in the future possibly as well!

Let's build a fort!

2006-10-21T21:41:00.000-07:00

No, no no. I did not take their picture and alter it in paint. This was all their doing. See, teamAwesome! is just a bunch of fun, college-aged Coloradans who don't take themselves too seriously. Mixing everything from violins to glockenspiels, teamAwesome! creates a carefree, happy pop sound. The band draws alot of its style from the likes of Architecture In Helsinki, while adding in the fun and childish lyrics that are reminiscent of The Boy Least Likely To. With not one song over three minutes, teamAwesome! manages to keep my ADD childish-self entertained for all 21 songs of their Greatest Hits Vol. 1 album! This track is the highlight in my opinion! Enjoy:

-mp3- teamAwesome! - Fort!
Like any good happy song, this one playfully hooks you from the start. With the twee-ish repition of "Ba ba" dueling between the male and female vocals, the song resonates with child-like fun. From here, its just a simple guitar and a boy urging his friends to build a fort with him. Not any fort though; a fort that will "reach to the big blue sky"! The song peaks as everyone joins in at the 1:31 mark for a bubbling chorus. Unfortunately, before this fort even starts to get built, the song slows down and stops. Why? I don't know. Kids get distracted!

Here's two more songs from teamAwesome's newest EP Heck Yeah! :

-mp3- teamAwesome! - Yr Fur
-mp3- teamAwesome! - Oh Ship!

download teamAwesome's Greatest Hits Vol. 1 for free here!
buy their 2006 Heck Yeah! EP
teamAwesome! on myspace
the teamAwesome! website