Café Eclectica Music

Moving On

2009-08-18T10:33:00.002-05:00

So from now on, you won't find me blogging here. I'm starting fresh with a new site called Omniphonic. Check it out at http://omniphonic.wordpress.com

New Passion Pit Remix

2009-07-27T11:49:00.002-05:00

So this song is addictive. It also features two of my current faves: Passion Pit and Ellie Goulding. I learned about Ellie through my brother when he sent me a link to her covering Bon Iver's "The Wolves (Act I and II)", and though she doesn't have a ton of material out yet, it's clear that she could be something special.

Recently Starsmith did a remix of Passion Pit's (relatively) massively popular track "Sleepyhead" and enlisted Ms. Goulding to do the vocals. It was a good choice. This track is already #1 in the Hype Machine rankings and once you listen you'll know why.

Download it. Love it. Dance to it.

[mp3] Passion Pit - "Sleepyhead (Starsmith remix feat. Ellie Goulding)"

Interpol's Paul Banks is Julian Plenti

2009-07-26T11:54:00.003-05:00

So you've probably noticed that Interpol has been on a bit of a hiatus - they haven't released anything new since 2007's Our Love to Admire. Not that 2 years is really that long, but they haven't been playing shows and there's been no word about any new recording sessions or anything. But out of that standstill comes something new and cool... and very Interpol-esque: Paul Banks' solo record under the faux-name Julian Plenti.

I got this record earlier this week and have listened to it over 20 times. It's really listenable and good. The songs flow together beautifully, Banks' vocals are spot on, and the record has those signature Interpol guitar riffs while keeping a more low-key vibe. I had a really hard time picking out a pair of mp3s for this because really, the whole record is so solid. I think I like this more than any Interpol record, as a matter of fact, and I can't wait for him to tour in support of this record - I love when members of big bands do their own solo records and play in much smaller venues.

So here are a few songs from Julian Plenti is... Skyscraper - it comes out 8/4 on Matador Records. Be sure to pick up a copy when you get the chance!

[mp3] Julian Plenti - "Only If You Run" (Julian Plenti is... Skyscraper)

[mp3] Julian Plenti - "Unwind" (Julian Plenti is... Skyscraper)

Dirty Projectors Played Williamsburg Waterfront

2009-07-20T12:02:00.005-05:00

Yesterday was Pool Party #2 at the new JellyNYC spot - the Williamsburg Waterfront. Last week was a bunch of bands I don't particularly care for, and I assumed this week would be much

of the same as I've never been a huge Dirty Projectors fan. Turns out they're better than I expected. It was a really, really great show yesterday and I had a lot of fun. Like every other guy before me, I fell for Angel. She just kind of glows.

Anyway, after the show I finally took a listen to their new record, Bitte Orca, which I immediately took to - I really resisted listening to it sooner due to my non-love of their earlier record, Rise Above. But this record is different. It is stunning. Intricate harmonies and intertwining vocals mixed with catchy noise-rockiness. But not really noisy at all. Hard to explain. My favorite song off the record - as of this moment, at least - is probably the most unique on the record. "Two Doves" is stripped down - one guitar and Angel singing. It is gorgeous. They started their set yesterday with the track, and I'm a fan.

We'll see where this record takes me after it sinks in a little bit - still on the fence as to whether this will be a mainstay on my music rotation or if it's just a fling.

[mp3] Dirty Projectors - "Two Doves" (Bitte Orca)

New Thom Yorke - "All For the Best"

2009-07-17T01:16:00.002-05:00

I've always enjoyed Thom Yorke's solo bits. OK, that's not entirely true - I really didn't care for his 2006 solo record, The Eraser - but I've always liked his covers and live stuff. Now we've got a new cover to offer you: "All For the Best," written by Mark Mulcahy for his band Miracle Legion, is Thom's contribution to a new compilation record. Mulcahy's wife died very unexpectedly last year, leaving him to raise a set of twins all by himself. This album, Ciao My Shining Star, is a tribute to his late wife and a means to help raise his children. The record has a great list of contributors, including Yorke, Frank Black, The National, Michael Stipe and Ben Kweller. Buy this record when it comes out on September 29th - it's for a good cause and should be a great listen!

[mp3] Thom Yorke - "All For the Best" (Ciao My Shining Star: The Songs of Mark Mulcahy)

Hi. Because I love you guys.

2009-07-16T10:56:00.003-05:00

So recently I've gotten a few emails and comments about people missing my blog. I partially killed the blog because I just didn't have enough energy to focus on it. That is still true. Another reason I killed it was because I had my blog hands full as Photo Editor for Brooklyn Vegan. That is no longer true. I do miss sharing my musical taste with anonymous people, however, and my Tumblr account (http://kyledeanreinford.tumblr.com) isn't enough. So. While I don't promise an update per day, I'm gonna start throwing a few things on here from time to time - mp3s and possibly concert reviews/photos - starting today.

[mp3] Discovery - "Orange Shirt" (LP)

The new side-project of Wes Miles (Ra Ra Riot) and Rostam Batmanglij (Vampire Weekend) is pretty decent, and ridiculously catchy. The whole record is good. Buy it.

[mp3] Noah & The Whale - "First Days of Spring" (First Days of Spring)

The opening title track of the Brit anti-folk group's upcoming record (out August 31) is staggeringly good. Very different from their previous record, but I think I may be a bigger fan of LP2 than I was of their debut record.

[mp3] The Dodos - "Fables" (Time to Die)

I've been looking forward to The Dodos' new album for a year and a half. After seeing them at Mercury Lounge last January, I was pretty hooked. This new record is really, really good, and though it's not out until September 15, you can stream the whole thing at http://timetodie.net/

[mp3] Florence + The Machine - "You've Got the Love" (Lungs)

This is another album I've been waiting for for a long time. After hearing a few covers by Florence (Mystery Jets' "Flakes," Beirut's "Postcards from Italy"), I knew I needed to hear more. The album doesn't disappoint from this fiery Londoner. I cannot wait to see her powerful vocals live.

[mp3] Japandroids - "Young Hearts Spark Fire" (Post-Nothing)

While slightly harder than my regular taste, Japandroids is a heavy band that doesn't come across as heavy. I think it's the fact that they actually sing, instead of just shouting all the time. I'm really bummed I missed these guys playing this past weekend and will miss their free show at Siren on Saturday, but they just announced playing Mercury Lounge on my birthday, so I might have to hit that up on September 24th (take note if you didn't know my birthday).

[mp3] Miike Snow - "Black & Blue" (Miike Snow)

Didn't like Miike the first time I heard a song of his - it got stuck in my head and kind of annoyed me. But I gave the record a chance anyway, and I'm glad I did. This is my favorite song off the record. Does the middle part remind you of TV on the Radio? 'cause it does for me.

Goodbye.

2009-01-13T17:21:00.002-05:00

It's time. Goodbye music blog. You've been fun. Too much other things going on in my life at this moment that I really need to concentrate on. You've been really understanding of my neglect this past year, but now it's time to put you down. Don't be surprised if you're revived in a future time in a different form.

And goodbye readers. If you'd like to keep up with me, the best way to do so is via email (kyledeanreinford (at) gmail (dot) com), through my parent website (http://whoiskyledeanreinford.com), through flickr (http://flickr.com/photos/kyledeanreinford) or through Brooklyn Vegan (http://brooklynvegan.com). There will probably be a tumblr site soon where I'll no doubt post mp3s now and again, but that's not setup yet. As soon as it's up it'll be on my whois site. Cheers.

James Blunt- Goodbye my lover
by val6210

So if you haven't noticed

2009-01-13T16:56:00.000-05:00

I had several posts taken down by Blogger. That's why my lists are incomplete. Jerks.

Top Albums of 2008: 10-1

2008-12-29T01:00:00.000-05:00

and now for the exciting conclusion. (50-41, 40-31, 30-21, 20-11). also if you missed it, the top 10 shows i saw this year. stay tuned for the top 100 tracks of the year coming in the next week or so.

ten: benji hughes - a love extreme

i stumbled across this album about two months ago and really dug hughes' style. it's more rough, less studio. he's got some really catchy beats and i cannot resist those big red glasses. i can't wait for this carolina boy to stop by nyc next time.

[mp3] benji hughes - "why do these parties always end the same way?" (a love extreme)

[mp3] benji hughes - "baby it's your life" (a love extreme)

nine: sigur rós - med sud i eyrum vid spilum endalaust

takk... is one of my favorite albums of all time, so when i heard about sigur rós' new album, suffice it to say i was excited. the new record lived up to every hope i had. the string arrangements are especially tight throughout, and seeing some of these songs live sealed the deal.

[mp3] sigur rós - "festival" (med sud i eyrum vid spilum endalaust)

[mp3] sigur rós - "gobbledigook" (med sud i eyrum vid spilum endalaust)

eight: school of seven bells - alpinisms

when i first heard the name school of seven bells i expected something amateur. it sounded like the name of a bad punk band or something. i don't know. i was very, very pleasantly surprised by what i heard when i saw them open for m83. then i heard the record, and it's even better yet. very trance-like electronica. brilliant.

[mp3] school of seven bells - "connjur" (alpinisms)

[mp3] school of seven bells - "half asleep" (alpinisms)

seven: fleet foxes - fleet foxes

here's an album you've probably heard about. that is, if you've seen any other top albums lists this year. ff has made the top spot on several lists, and it very much deserves it. the harmonies and stripped out instrumentation on this record is stunning.

[mp3] fleet foxes - "white winter hymnal" (fleet foxes)

[mp3] fleet foxes - "he doesn't know why" (fleet foxes)

six: laura marling - alas i cannot swim

i wanted to see this on more year-end lists. laura marling has really written one of the best solo debuts i've heard. her singing and songwriting at age 17 are out of this world - the lyricism sounds like it comes from a 28 year old. the record has great flow, mostly mellow singer-songwriter-y, but it definitely has its intensely beautiful orchestral moments (namely "night terror").

[mp3] laura marling - "you're no god" (alas i cannot swim)

[mp3] laura marling - "night terror" (alas i cannot swim)

five: friendly fires - friendly fires

here's a record that hit my radar really hard late in the year. i had heard "strobes" earlier in the year and knew that this was one to look out for, but it wasn't until i saw them live during cmj that i realized how good they are. i have ingested these brit's dance rock tunes for the past few months and this album has every right to be in the top 5.

[mp3] friendly fires - "paris" (friendly fires)

[mp3] friendly fires - "jump in the pool" (friendly fires)

four: shearwater - rooks

man, this album is a heart breaker, and i, for one, can't believe it hasn't gotten more list love. it's brilliantly somber, has emotional peaks throughout, and jonathan's voice is golden. rooks has some of the most intimate moments of the year, and i can't recommend it highly enough.

[mp3] shearwater - "leviathan, bound" (rooks)

[mp3] shearwater - "the snow leopard" (rooks)

three: the kills - midnight boom

i. love. this. record. it's eerie. it's dark. it's beautifully put together. not sure what else to say, really.

[mp3] the kills - "tape song" (midnight boom)

[mp3] the kills - "black balloon" (midnight boom)

two: tv on the radio - dear science

if fleet foxes wasn't the top of your list, chances are tv on the radio was. after putting out return to cookie mountain a few years back, tvotr was posed for another thriller. dear science has a great balance of fast- and slow-paced songs, eloquent vocals and catchy tracks that get stuck in your mind for weeks. so good.

[mp3] tv on the radio - "dlz" (dear science)

[mp3] tv ont he radio - "golden age" (dear science)

one: foals - antidotes

foals. i love it. the echo-y overlapping guitars, the loose instrumentation. harsh brit vocals. i'm a big fan and can't wait to see them live next time foals stop through town. i'll let the music speak for itself.

[mp3] foals - "balloons" (antidotes)

[mp3] foals - "olympic airways" (antidotes)

Top Albums of 2008: 20-11

2008-12-28T15:58:00.000-05:00

twenty: santogold - santogold

this is the only somewhat hip-hoppy album on the list, but santogold definitely deserves this spot. her self-titled debut is packed full of catchy tracks that can't really be categorized as anything other than great. i can't wait to hear santogold 2.0.

[mp3] santogold - "i'm a lady (featuring trouble andrew)" (santogold)

nineteen: hot chip - made in the dark

hot chip has a special place in my heart: they're the first band i ever photographed live. they also make some pretty good music. made in the dark didn't win the heart of every critic out there, but it won mine. while it's comprised of mostly electronica, hot chip also shows their more sensitive side with one of my favorite tracks, "in the privacy of our love." pick this record up.

[mp3] hot chip - "ready for the floor" (made in the dark)

eighteen: crystal castles - crystal castles

when i saw crystal castles open up for metric back in september 2007 i had no idea they'd step up and make such a big impact on the indie scene in 2008. early this year they were the band to see live, and though their time in the spotlight has subsided a bit, this album is still good.

[mp3] crystal castles - "alice practice" (crystal castles)

seventeen: thao & the get down stay down - we brave bee stings and all

been listening to this album since back in may, and while it's lost a bit of it's addictive presence in my lineup, i can't deny that this is one of the better albums this year. i saw thao three times in a month, and man, i fell hard for these songs. best tracks = "beat (health, life and fire)", "fear and convenience" and "bag of hammers".

[mp3] thao & the get down stay down - "beat (health, life and fire)" (we brave bee stings and all)

sixteen: the tallest man on earth - shallow graves

one of the best descriptions i've heard of the tallest man on earth notes that the swede seems to understand americana more than pretty much any americans. he sounds like dylan. he's absolutely brilliant. this is such a great album. listen to it.

[mp3] the tallest man on earth - "the gardener" (shallow graves)

fifteen: hercules & love affair - hercules & love affair

one of the most startling addictive albums this year comes in the form of this debut album. the fact that antony was taking part in a dance album was enough to sell me on this, and once i heard "time will" i knew it was going to be ridiculous. it is. it has some great, great tracks.

[mp3] hercules & love affair - "time will" (hercules & love affair)

fourteen: department of eagles - in ear park

as a grizzly bear fan, i found myself very excited for this record - daniel rossen writes music for both. when i heard track one, "no one does it like you," i knew this was an album i was going to dig. after helping with the album release party (presented by brooklyn vegan), i solidified my love of this album.

[mp3] department of eagles - "floating on the lehigh" (in ear park)

thirteen: m83 - saturday = youth

i hadn't really paid much attention to m83 since 2005's before the dawn heals us, but gladly saturday = youth was a worthwhile reason to start listening again. this shoegaze stuff is really top notch - great for late night walking as well as daytime walking. and morning walking. and early evening walking. this is pretty much just a great album.

[mp3] m83 - "skin of the night" (saturday = youth)

twelve: late of the pier - fantasy black channel

while this record isn't officially released in the united states yet, it makes my list. late of the pier have one of the most unique sounds of the year, and this album is full of great tracks. it gets a bit weird during some songs, but somehow it works. i have trouble describing this album - you'll have to listen yourself. i'm still pissed that i missed them when they were here in october, but i'll be sure to catch them next time.

[mp3] late of the pier - "random firl" (fantasy black channel)

eleven: cut copy - in ghost colours

this is a great dance album.

[mp3] cut copy - "far away" (in ghost colours)

Top Albums of 2008: 30-21

2008-12-26T23:46:00.004-05:00

segment #3. 50-41. 40-31.

thirty: cloud cult - feel good ghosts (tea-partying through tornadoes)

i was out in the cold re: cloud cult until this year, so while this may not be their best album, the fact that's the first record of theirs that i got into makes it still pretty darn good. the instrumentation, the vocals... the album has such an epic feel to it. this one rings in at number thirty, and rightfully so.

[mp3] cloud cult - "the will of a volcano" (feel good ghosts (tea-partying through tornadoes))

twenty-nine: guillemots - red

here's one that should be on people's lists. it's not, but it really should be. these brits have put out two solid albums now and it doesn't seem like anybody is taking notice. "kriss kross," "get over it," "take me home" and "falling out of reach" are my faves from this record, but it's pretty full of great music. check it out if you haven't heard them before.

[mp3] guillemots - "falling out of reach" (red)

twenty-eight: peasant - on the ground

grabbed this record after peasant played our brooklyn vegan day party at pianos during cmj. it's a hit. folksy, but not too much. this one is still sinking in and could be even higher on this list. i can't wait to see him play again.

[mp3] peasant - "raise today" (on the ground)

twenty-seven: the dodos - visiter

i stumbled across the dodos unintentionally when i went to see alberta cross at mercury lounge back in january. after seeing the duo absolutely tear it up, i grabbed a copy of their album. it was hard and fast in my ipod rotation for the first half of this year. it lost a bit of steam, but had i created this list back in july, this would have definitely been a top 5 record.

[mp3] the dodos - "fools" (visiter)

twenty-six: mgmt - oracular spectacular

i've gone back and forth on this record - i believe it's the only "technically released in 2007" album on the list (vampire weekend and bon iver made last year's list). moreover, though i dig some of the music, part of me wanted to leave them off the list based on their absolutely obnoxious fan base - it makes me never want to go to one of their shows again. however, they do have some addictive tracks, and they are sort of responsible for me meeting a pretty cool chick in my life, so they get a pass.

[mp3] mgmt - "time to pretend" (oracular spectacular)

twenty-five: land of talk - some are lakes

i fell for land of talk one night at mercury lounge when i first saw them. liz powell stole my love that evening, but then i gave the album a listen and realized that it's also pretty incredible. "it's okay," "some are lakes" and "the man who breaks things (dark shuffle)" highlight this record.

[mp3] land of talk - "some are lakes" (some are lakes)

twenty-four: death cab for cutie - narrow stairs

ever since plans i've been awaiting something new from death cab for cutie. while narrow stairs doesn't hit the spot its predecessor did, it's still an excellent album. "i will possess your heart", "your new twin sized bed" and "cath..." are definite highlights.

[mp3] death cab for cutie - "your new twin sized bed" (narrow stairs)

twenty-three: coldplay - viva la vida or death and all his friends

i expect to get a lot of flack for this choice, but this spot is much deserved. yes, chris martin & co. are cocky little bitches, but putting out viva renewed my faith in a band that had really sunk over the past few records. like it or not, it's a really great album.

[mp3] coldplay - "strawberry swing" (viva la vida)

twenty-two: parenthetical girls - entanglements

here's an album i fell in love with back in september. the style of music, in conjunction with frontman zac pennington's persona, of the movie "breakfast on pluto." i'm not sure what it is, but that's exactly what it is to me. seeing them in concert solidified this for me. great album. quirky.

[mp3] parenthetical girls - "four words" (entanglements)

twenty-one: the streets - everything is borrowed

the fourth of the five album set by the streets is a good one in my eyes. it hasn't received amazing reviews, but i like it just as much as any of his previous stuff. part of the reason this ranks so high is because it fits together so well, and i think the opening and closing tracks are two of the strongest this year. i love it.

[mp3] the streets - "the escapist" (everything is borrowed)

Top Albums of 2008: 50-41

2008-12-25T22:17:00.007-05:00

so here we go. top 50 albums of 2008. counting down, 10 at a time, until we hit the #1 record. same format i did last time around - one mp3 per record until we get to the top 10. and yes, i decided to keep it split up into 5 posts because i know how much it annoys some of you to have to wait. enjoy!

fifty: grouper - dragging a dead deer up a hill

one of the later additions to my list, i quickly fell in love with grouper. the perfect record to go to sleep to, these songs meld together seamlessly. the only problem is that i don't know which songs i like because i can't tell where one ends and the next begins.

[mp3] grouper - "disengaged" (dragging a dead deer up a hill)

fourty-nine: women - women

when i heard women for the first time at cake shop, i knew i needed to hear this record. women are particularly good live, but their record is growing on me. still not sure if this album should be much higher or much lower, but i'm getting used to it.

[mp3] women - "black rice" (women)

fourty-eight: bonnie "prince" billy - lie down in the light

bonnie put out two albums this year, lie down in the light and is it the sea? both really good, quite honestly, but lie down was just a bit better. bonnie is one of the best songwriters of our time, in my eyes, and i can't wait to see him headline somewhere sometime.

[mp3] bonnie "prince" billy - "you remind me of something (the glory goes)" (lie down in the light)

fourty-seven: jamie lidell - jim

for whatever reason i thought jamie lidell was going to be more... i don't know. i just didn't think he was going to be my style. turns out i was wrong - jamie is right up my alley. his chill motown sounds really hit the spot when i'm looking for something not so "indie rock". check 'im out.

[mp3] jamie lidell - "another day" (jim)

fourty-six: the republic tigers - keep color

here's another one that made it on late. when i first herad the record back in may i really liked it, but due to getting my hands on a bunch of other music at the same time (and getting ready for an awesome summer) this record missed my playlist for awhile. after a re-listen, i still like it quite a bit.

[mp3] the republic tigers - "feelin' the future" (keep color)

fourty-five: white denim - workout holiday

these austin kids caught my attention at the fader fort during cmj in 2007 and with their ep let's talk about it. this year they put out some really great tracks, and workout holiday is solid from front to back. it's much more bluesy and rocky-er than i expected from their first material, but i dig.

[mp3] white denim - "all you really have to do" (workout holiday)

fourty-four: talkdemonic - eyes at half mast

i think this is the only instrumental album to make the list, but it easily deserves the nod. i thought i was going to hate this band just based off the name, but every time it came up on shuffle i loved what i heard. it's a strings-infused album that just... it's just really good.

[mp3] talkdemonic - "duality of deathening" (eyes at half mast)

fourty-three: flight of the conchords - flight of the conchords

the only comedy album on this list, i cannot resist these kiwis. though i heard all of the songs in 2007, having an actual studio version of all of these songs is just great. highlights for me are "think about it," "the most beautiful girl (in the room)" and "ladies of the world." the show is amazing, though episode one of season two = meh.

[mp3] flight of the conchords - "ladies of the world" (flight of the conchords)

fourty-two: los campesinos! - hold on now, youngster

los campesinos! also put out two albums this year - hold on now, youngster and we are beautiful, we are doomed. while both are excellent, HONY just stuck with me a little more. i just love the polished unpolished sound coming from these brits.

[mp3] los campesinos! - "death to los campesinos!" (hold on now, youngster)

fourty-one: amos lee - last days at the lodge

amos's third offering is just as good as the first two. chocked full of amazing lyrics, lee's gorgeous voice and perfect late night walking music, i fell hard for this album when i got it back in june. it still sticks today.

[mp3] amos lee - "better days" (last days at the lodge)

Top 10 Shows of 2008.

2008-12-13T16:09:00.009-05:00

So despite my lack of regular posting, I'm still doing a bunch of end of the year stuff. I find it fun, some people find it obnoxious. Whatever.

While I'm still whittling down my Top 50 Albums and Top 100 Tracks, I thought I'd do something different this year and list my Top 10 Shows of 2008, complete with photos and all that jazz.

Oh, and this doesn't mean that these are the best live music acts, they're simply the shows that struck me the hardest. And there's a little room for error yet - I still have My Brightest Diamond (tonight), School of Seven Bells (Monday), of Montreal (Tuesday), Ryan Adams/Oasis (Wednesday), My Morning Jacket (NYE) and maybe Gogol Bordello before the end of the year.

Honorable mentions: Kanye West secret appearance at Knitting Factory with Consquence and Q-Tip, Fleet Foxes at Union Hall, Band of Horses at The Parish Room (in Austin), Friendly Fires at The Annex.

10. The Kills, Music Hall of Williamsburg, October 4.

While no photos of this show were published (nor a review), this was one of my favorite shows of the year. I had just seen The Kills at Austin City Limits the week before, but it was in the middle of the day, which doesn't really suit their music. Music Hall was a much better venue for the dark, somewhat dissonant sound that these two Brits put on. Their 2008 album, Midnight Boom, is a prime suspect for best album of the year, and this show definitely helped their case.

[mp3] The Kills - "Last Day of Magic" (Midnight Boom)

9. Bon Iver, Music Hall of Williamsburg, December 12.

So this show happened last night. Seems a bit quick to coin it one of the best of the year, but really, I couldn't have asked for a better show. The Tallest Man on Earth opened, and that Swede has some major talent. Justin & co. came on and the crowd. Was. Silent. It was chilling - I might even call it a spiritual experience. "re: Stacks" was staggering. "Skinny Love" was the gorgeousness that I've always known. "Wolves (Act I and II)" was heartbreaking (and much louder than I expected). They also played a few new tracks off their upcoming EP Blood Bank which were... good (to make a ridiculous understatement).

[mp3] Bon Iver - "Blood Bank" (Blood Bank)

8. Beth Orton, Prospect Park, July 12. (more here).

This one I didn't expect. When I went to see Beth Orton I went to see a few songs off of Comfort of Strangers that I liked, and I went because it was a beautiful night and Prospect Park is just a short walk from my house. I enjoyed the first few songs while I was taking photos, but man, after I sat down and listened I was absolutely blown away. Such an intimate sound on a big stage, so careful and so stunning. It was stripped down - none of the electronics that had been associated with some of her older work. I'd very happily see her again.

[mp3] Beth Orton - "Comfort of Strangers" (Comfort of Strangers)

7. Ryan Adams, Cafe Select, October 29. (more here).

Secret shows are always great, especially when you love the act as much as I did this time around. I wrote a review of the show for Brooklyn Vegan, but I just want to iterate how great this show really was. How often do you get to see one of your favorite artists do a show at a cafe that holds 40 people in the middle of the day where he takes one of your personal requests for a song? That, friends, rocks.

[mp3] Ryan Adams & The Cardinals - "Born Into A Light" (Cardinology)

6. I'm From Barcelona, Brooklyn Masonic Temple, May 1. (more here).

Another one I wrote a review for, but man, this show was great. I didn't know Thao before, so she was a nice touch as an opener, but also I'm From Barcelona have to be one of the best live acts around. Their 20-some people on stage, excessive use of confetti and happiness just make for such a fun night. Not to mention finding that confetti in your pockets days later.

[mp3] I'm From Barcelona - "Music Killed Me" (Who Killed Harry Houdini?)

5. Cut Copy/The Presets, Webster Hall, September 21. (more here).

This show was sick. The only real dance show on here, because I'm not usually a dance show fan. But both of these bands were ridiculously good at getting people dancing. The only time I've felt the floor at Webster bounce like that was at my first ever concert photog experience - Hot Chip last year. These bands just straight up kill it live - if you have the chance to see them, do so. Just don't do so in a pair of flip-flops so that the 6'1 Australian girl standing next to you can't step on your toe with her stilettos.

[mp3] Cut Copy - "Nobody Lost, Nobody Found" (In Ghost Colours)

4. Metric - Union Pool, September 9. (more here).

When Emily Haines announced several shows in one night at Union Pool I was sold. It turned out to be her and Jimmy Shaw playing the new Metric album acoustically, which... holy shit, wait until you hear it. The entire record is so good, and they're recording an acoustic version as well. The night gets extra points because Emily gave me a hug and Jimmy bought me a beer. And because I finally got some good shots of the musical love of my life.

[mp3] Metric - "Help, I'm Alive" (new untitled album)

3. Joanna Newsom, BAM, January 31. (more here).

This one I kind of half-expected to be good. I love some of Joanna's stuff, but am also kind of annoyed by her voice in some of them. Thankfully her voice is coming along beautifully and there wasn't a moment during the show that I cringed. The first half of the show was her playing with the Brooklyn Philharmonic - they played all of Ys from beginning to end - and the second half was her with her band. I am so very excited to hear some of her new stuff.

[mp3] Joanna Newsom - "Sawdust & Diamonds" (Ys)

2. Sigur Rós, United Palace, September 18. (more here).

This one, I mean come on. It was everything I expected it to be. Yes, I would have loved to have seen them earlier in the year in a smaller space with their orchestra, but I cannot complain for one second about this experience. It was powerful. I made friends with one of the security guards which allowed me to shoot a bit more freely throughout the night, including from the crowd that rushed to the front of the stage during the last song of the set, "Gobbledigook," and stayed there as they played "Illegresi" live for the first time and ended with "Untitled #8" which was nothing short of face-meltingly good.

[mp3] Sigur Rós - "Fljótavík" (Me› su› í eyrum vi› spilum end)

1. Radiohead, All Points West, August 8. (more here).

Duh.

This show was amazing. Night #2 was great too as I got to shoot a few songs from the pit, but night #1 is my choice because I was decently close for the entire set and it was my first time seeing them. 25 Radiohead songs... they know how to perform. The second encore will stick in my mind as one of the best things ever to happen to me. 3 songs: Thom solo on "Cymbal Rush," then "Just" and "Everything in Its Right Place." "Cymbal Rush" was particularly stunning. He played it acoustically, and it was the most silent you've ever heard 30,000 people in one place. My view was Radiohead | Manhattan Skyline | Statue of Liberty. It was a gorgeous night and this one will always stick out as one of the most amazing concerts of my life.

[mp3] Radiohead - "Reckoner" (In Rainbows)

This Will Be A Great Christmas Season...

2008-12-02T18:54:00.004-05:00

... for at least one reason. That reason? Now that I have no restaurant job, I will not have to listen to Christmas music once. I don't have money to do Christmas shopping, so I won't be at any stores for their winter serenades. The only ways I'll get screwed: the airport; concerts where people pull out a Christmas tune or two; the car ride to Chicago with my family (if we go); or if the shuffle on my iTunes goes to Sufjan Stevens' Christmas album. I'm just so, so happy I could cry.

My alternative listening for the holidays (which have no holiday connotations, and no sort of congruity whatsoever):

[mp3] Team B - "Mystery Man" (Team B)

[mp3] Foals - "Mathematics" (Antidotes (Bonus Disc))

[mp3] Sufjan Stevens - "Size Too Small" (Seven Swans)

[mp3] Friendly Fires - "Jump in the Pool" (Friendly Fires)

Strand of Oaks

2008-11-28T15:30:00.004-05:00

I received a few albums in the mail today, and I have to admit I've gotten a bit desensitized to getting free music now, which is kind of sad. For whatever reason I decided to give one of them a listen - Leave Ruin by Strand of Oaks. I randomly turned on "Lawns Breed Songs," the 3rd track on the record, and absolutely loved it. I gave the song another listen, then checked out a few other tracks on the album. I'm kind of diggin' it at this point, though I haven't given it a thorough evaluation.

Anyway, I generally don't blog about bands this fast, but I felt the inkling to write something. Then I took a look at the press sheet that came with it - something I also rarely do. The first line of it reads, "Strand of Oaks is Timothy Showalter, an Indiana Mennonite turned Pennsylvania Hebrew Dayschool teacher who even drives the school bus for extra cash." Wait, what? An Indiana Mennonite? I'm an Indiana Mennonite. Who is this Timothy Showalter? I still have yet to figure it out, but we probably went to the same school or something like that. Weird.

But hey, we have a strong musical tradition so I'm not really that surprised, especially considering Tim's musical style - the record is very folky singer/songwriter-y. Very much grounded in the guitar and voice, but with some other nice instrumental additions. Give it a try yourself, and if you like it, the album comes out January 27, 2009 on La Société Expéditionnaire.

[mp3] Strand of Oaks - "Lawns Breed Songs" (Leave Ruin)

[mp3] Strand of Oaks - "Dogs of War" (Leave Ruin)

Recently...

2008-11-23T18:54:00.004-05:00

Things have been a little crazy in my life. Good things, mainly, but a few annoyances as well. Number 1 annoyance = my camera breaking. Yeah. That's not a great thing when your only means of income is broken. Life's a little rough, but I'm scraping by. Here's to hoping things improve soon.

But with all I have to complain about, I'm pretty lucky in a lot of ways. I just got a free trip to Austin for a music fest (and got to see a girl I have a crush on), I'm constantly improving my portfolio and my photo knowledge, and I've been meeting lots of new people. On top of that, my music collection continues to grow. And my 365 keeps on keeping on (even if I am currently a few days behind).

So here's a few new tracks, though they've been scarce on here recently. I hope somebody still checks this site from time to time...

[mp3] Obi Best - "Green and White Stripes" (Capades)

[mp3] School of Seven Bells - "Half Asleep" (Alpinisms)

[mp3] Mystery Jets - "Young Love (feat. Laura Marling)" (Twenty-One)

Mr. November

2008-11-04T13:01:00.002-05:00

On Saturday I witnessed/was a part of something cool. I was at 200 5th, my favorite sports bar, watching the Notre Dame - Pitt game. Forget the fact that my Irish lost in 4 overtimes, this isn't about that. While the game was going on, they had most of the other TVs in the place turned to the Georgia - Florida game, which was a huuuge game. At one point there was a 2 minute commercial break that was just good ole Barack telling the people why he should be president. A great slot to invest in, as Florida is potentially huge and Georgia is more up in the air than anybody thought it would be. The entire sports bar was just silent, listening in unison. Afterwards we cheered. It really reinforced my belief that change is going to happen.

The National have a few tracks that are quite potent these days. "Fake Empire" has been used by the Obama campaign, and I think "Mr. November" has been as well. If not, it should be. Both songs are just beautiful political-without-being-so-political-I-want-to-throw-up anthems to what this nation either is, or needs to be. Enjoy them, and go vote if you haven't yet!

[mp3] The National - "Mr. November" (Alligator)

[mp3] The National - "Fake Empire" (Boxer)

A Ryan Adams Musical Moment

2008-10-30T18:02:00.003-05:00

On Tuesday I woke late in the day with an email stating Ryan Adams would be doing a secret show during the day. I sprinted (literally) to the subway (in flip-flops, on a freezing day) and got to the cafe. The place held about 50 people, and I sat right next to Ryan. He played 8 songs (mostly off of his new album, "Cardinology," which came out on Tuesday, and which is quite good), one of which was my request, "If I Am A Stranger." Straight up one of the most amazingly written songs. When he started playing it I sat in awe. Didn't snap a photo - just sat and soaked. That definitely ranks up there in the all time musical moments of my life. I wrote more and there are more photos.

[mp3] Ryan Adams - "If I Am A Stranger" (Everybody Knows)

[mp3] Ryan Adams - "Fix It" (Cardinology)

PWRFL Power is GR8.

2008-10-18T19:33:00.003-05:00

So a few weeks ago I had a friend in town that really wanted to go to see Damien Jurado. OK, I can do that. I got us two tix to the sold out show (thank you BV for the access I now have), and we went. She was really pumped about Damien and I was really excited for my first time seeing opener Miles Benjamin Anthony Robinson. In the end, I was a bit disappointed with MBAR, dug Damien, but maybe enjoyed the real opener, PWRFL Power, the most (photos at BV). Super quirky, interesting lyrics... Kaz really offers something unique in his sound. Ever since I've had one specific song stuck in my head - "It's Okay." Actually, I've had "It's Okay" stuck in my head twice as much - it's also a song by Land of Talk that I'm obsessed with - but the PWRFL Power song gets trapped in my head and just won't relent. Anyway, it looks like we've got him booked for a Brooklyn Vegan showcase on Thursday, so I might as well get this song out there... and one more too!

[mp3] PWRFL Power - "It's Okay" (PWRFL Power)

[mp3] PWRFL Power - "Alma Song" (PWRFL Power)

I'm Feeling Great Tonight.

2008-10-12T17:18:00.002-05:00

Partially because of this (my image, if you didn't realize), but also because I love this song by Chairlift. Can't wait to see them live at some point. Now I'm going to a dinner. Should be tasty. More photos and blogging to come this week (taking the week off of concert photography!) For now, enjoy the track.

[mp3] Chairlift - "Planet Health" (Does You Inspire You)

Department of Eagles First Show

2008-10-09T23:23:00.003-05:00

Monday night I got to see the first ever live show by Department of Eagles. It was a record release party put up by Brooklyn Vegan at the brand new Bell House in Gowanus, and was a huge success. The place was packed, the band was tight, the record is phenomenal, and we got a few treats along the way. Daniel Rossen (who is also a key songwriter in his other band, Grizzly Bear) played some new tracks and a cover. Here's a few of the songs that my buddy Drew taped on the night, and you can read about it and see all the photos from the night here.

[mp3] Department of Eagles - "Too Little Too Late (JoJo Cover)"

[mp3] Department of Eagles - "If You'd Forgive Me"

Austin City Limits.

2008-10-02T17:34:00.004-05:00

So I got to go to Austin City Limits over the weekend. Craziness ensued. A few things that happened:

1. I sat next to Ben Bridwell on the flight down. Ben is the lead singer of Band of Horses and one of the nicest guys I've ever met. We talked for like 2 hours and I met his wife and 5 month old daughter who is absolutely adorable. Ben hooked me up with some backstage stuff as well.

2. I got a hug from Jenny Lewis. She was having a slice of pizza backstage after the Band of Horses Aftershow on Saturday night. I love Jenny the same way I love Emily. Hoping to meet up with her when she's in town this weekend.

3. I saw 53 bands.

4. I took 8200 photos (exactly).

5. I saw Foo Fighters! And immediately after the first three songs that I was allowed to shoot I ran away.

6. I got very little sleep.

7. I gained a definite love and respect for breakfast tacos. They are delicious, especially with egg, cheese, onions and peppers. Chorizo is great on tacos as well.

8. I saw Austin for the first time. I loved the city - well, what I saw of it when I wasn't on the festival grounds. I look forward to going back down and spending more time around town, getting some good BBQ and TexMex. All things in good time.

9. I got a pair of Toms.

10. I met some kindred photo spirits. Good people.

Looks like I'll probably be going back down to Austin in a few weeks for Fun Fun Fun Fest. Looks like the festival might even be paying for my flight so I can speak on a panel about music blogging on Brooklyn Vegan's behalf.

Check out my photos of ACL here!

[mp3] Band of Horses - "The Great Salt Lake" (Everything All The Time)

[mp3] Band of Horses - "The General Specific" (Cease to Begin)

Santogold is too fast.

2008-09-21T15:48:00.002-05:00

Friday night I got to see Santogold at Irving Plaza. Part of the Goldrush tour, I was pretty pumped to see this one that slipped away last time. However, it wasn't the most amazing night of my life (unlike the previous night). First off, there were 3 mediochre openers. None of them great, all of them short sets (thankfully), though they were decent for photos.

Santogold came on at 11 (doors were at 7, I got there for the first band at 8... can you say marathon?) and played for 45 minutes. Yes, 45 minutes. She started with "You'll Find a Way" and played almost all of her album. She also did a new song that samples "Comfy in Nautica" by Panda Bear (though I thought for sure it was "Bros."). I wouldn't complain about the 45 minute set if she hadn't made us stand around for an hour between sets. That was annoying.

Sure, she's good and fun to watch on stage, but it sounds identical to the album (in fact, she may have been lipsyncing). Oh well, I had fun. And I almost (literally) ran into Jay-Z and Beyonce as they were leaving the backstage. I would have, had it not been for those 8 very large men standing in my way.

Summary? I'd see her again, but not until she develops more of a complete live act and doesn't have a massive amount of openers. Until then, I'll enjoy her album.

Here are two of my favorite tracks, and as per usual you can find my photos of the event at Brooklyn Vegan.

[mp3] Santogold - "You'll Find a Way" (Santogold)

[mp3] Santogold - "Say Aha" (Santogold)

Sigur Rós. Wow.

2008-09-20T10:28:00.003-05:00

Thursday night I finally got to the concert I've been dreaming about all this time. Sigur Rós played United Palace, and while I didn't think the venue was ideal for them and I wish they had been playing with their full orchestra, I did not leave disappointed.

During the set I wondered whether or not it was as good as it could have been, but the music was gorgeous. Then, at the end of the initial set, things got awesome. During "Gobbledigook" the band brought opener Parachutes on to stage and invited folks to stand and come close to stage. I got in the middle of the group near the stage, and the rest of the concert rocked my face off. For the encore, the band played "Illgresi" live for the first time ever. Then they finished off with "Untitled #8 (Popplagio)" which is probably the most epic single song performance I've witnessed. The only songs I really wanted to see which were omitted were "Starálfur" (which I hear they never play), "Festival" (which I don't think they've ever played live), and "Gong."

Overall though, no real complaints. I'm still coming down off that concert, honestly. Anyway, here are two of my favorites at the moment, as well as another photo of Jónsi. Also, you can check out more of my photos at Brooklyn Vegan.

[mp3] Sigur Rós - "Illgresi" (Me› su› í eyrum vi› spilum end)

[mp3] Sigur Rós - "Untitled #8 (Popplagio)" ( () )

Everything Is Borrowed

2008-09-17T16:01:00.003-05:00

Have you kids heard the latest album by The Streets? Everything is Borrowed came out on Monday in the UK, and will drop in the US on October 7. The 4th out of 5 albums Mike Skinner will put out under the moniker, it's yet another catchy bunch of songs by the rapper. Two of the songs really stand out to me - "The Escapist" and the title track. "The Escapist" also has a music video - it's Skinner walking 770 miles from Dover to a beach in France. You can watch it here. I've wanted to shoot the man for some time - I hope he sets up some live dates over here, but we'll see about that. As of now all tour dates are on the opposite side of the pond. Bummer. Anyway, while we wait for him, you should check out a few of the new tracks - they're startlingly addictive.

[mp3] The Streets - "The Escapist" (Everything Is Borrowed)

[mp3] The Streets - "Everything Is Borrowed" (Everything Is Borrowed)