2008 was a very odd year for me. 2007 was absolutely amazing, with huge performances and wild shows throughout. From the Decemberists at the Bowl (with Band of Horses & Andrew Bird) to Wolfmother at the Warfield to Arcade Fire 3 times over, 2007 was one of those momentous years filled with epic events and albums (Neon Bible, In Rainbows, Sound of Silver, All of a Sudden I Miss Everyone).
2008 came around, and from the start, I realized it'd be very unpredictable...there were a few key albums I was dying for (Loyalty to Loyalty, At Mount Zoomer), but had no real idea what to expect. I honestly thought 08 would be somewhat of a relax year, a break from the hard hitters of 07.
As I look back at the last 12 months, I realize that 2008 was another epic year in music. I really need to stop doubting the scene. 08 was different, however; it was full of the oddities and more subtle acts that filled the clubs rather instead of the amphitheaters. There were a few huge performances (MMJ, Sigur Ros), but the year was punctuated by emerging bands - who will eventually play those outdoor venues - and more technical, specialized acts that could make the club crowds move. 08 was a fantastic year for music, one that stands out for me since my expectations were so ambiguous. Classics were released this year, things that I'll be listening to for years to come. Thank you, 2008, for surprising me in the best way.
My favorites of 2008...
Albums-
At Mount Zoomer - Wolf Parade
- It was my most anticipated album of the year, and it lived up to expectations. I'm just a huge Wolf Parade fan, so there's bias, but with good reason. The little elements that Dan Boeckner and Spencer Krug bring to the table are fantastic, as they compliment each other's songs extremely well. Boeckner's folk-based rock makes for catchy pop-centered hooks and an edgier feel...Krug fills open space with eerie atmospheric sounds and can conjure thundering, fist-pumping anthems as well as slow burning epics. "California Dreamer" is a standout track, illustrating Krug's unique flavor and his ability to build a catchy song on top of unconventional sound. "Kissing the Beehive", silly name aside, is the grand finale of the album, and is the first song Krug and Boeckner did together. It still sounds like two separate songs...you can tell where each comes in and out...but it still mixes in very well and, about 8 minutes in, makes you move.
Fleet Foxes/Sun Giant EP - Fleet Foxes
- This debut EP/LP has to be one of the brightest debuts of 2008. Robin Pecknold's voice carries with it a gravitas that forces you to listen; the band's harmonies just add to the epic feel of their music. They play a style of folk-indie-rock that brings to mind Band of Horses and My Morning Jacket; yet they have a distinctly Northwesterly feel to them. One tends to think of trees, snow, and rain when hearing this band, a perfect portrait of our isolated Pacific Northwest. Fleet Foxes' debut album is a steady ride, inviting the listener to feel clean, open melodies, catchy hooks, and harmonies unrivaled in the scene. This album is a perfect listen during long, dark stretches on the road, or cozied up near the fireplace.
Loyalty to Loyalty - Cold War Kids
- Cold War Kids have managed to shift their perspective from the third-person, anecdotal narrative of Robbers and Cowards to a more intimate first-person narrative present on their sophomore effort, Loyalty to Loyalty. They continue to utilize the garage-rock, gritty feel of their debut, yet have decided to let their songs breathe with ambient piano keys, guitar plucks, a a lot more open space. Through a series of short-story-narratives, the Cold War Kids have taken their sound to a new level of intimacy. Songwriting on this album is poetic and tragic, describing the lives of anyone from an anonymous hero (Golden Gate Jumper) to a lovesick woman (Every Man I Fall For). The album is solid proof that Cold War Kids have their sights set high, and we are enjoying the fruits of their massive ambition.
Með suð í eyrum við spilum end - Sigur Ros
- Sigur Ros' new album was recorded all over the globe, the first time they've recorded anywhere outside their native Iceland. The result is a far more eclectic album, adding different folk ideas while maintaining their massive, sweeping soundscapes. The album includes the first ever English-language song (All Alright) from Sigur Ros. It's obvious that Sigur Ros is far from "Heima", which served as a ballad to the Icelandic people. This album is a call to the rest of the world to wake up and feel something. Nowhere is this felt more than on the opening track, "Gobbledigook", whose heavy drums complimented by the band "la la la's" add a playful feel that Sigur Ros never really captured before this effort. The result is a timeless piece of music that spans generations and borders.
Hold on Now, Youngster & We are Beautiful, We are Doomed - Los Campesinos
- The two albums released in 2008 from this fantastic Welsh band are each a wonderful trip through twee and pop, complete with lots of glockenspiel and shout-alongs. The seven members of the Campesinos play at a frantic pace, initially sounding like a mishmash of pop music featuring a whole lot of instruments. Upon closer listen, however, it's obvious that the band is extremely talented with a knack for blending multiple instruments together into one, unifying sound. That this sound is so upbeat and cheery juxtaposed with sad (albeit cheeky) lyrics makes the Campesinos one of most entertaining new bands of the year. They can pump out a catchy tune, soaked in fiddles and glockenspiel, while wailing lyrics of a desperate soul fighting for and against love. The result is a frantic yet structured, cheery yet disillusioned style of music that leaves you wide eyed and jazzed to hear more.
A Guide to Love, Loss, and Desperation - The Wombats
- The Wombats have only three members who make a large amount of sound and harmonize like few others can. Their lyrics are witty and entertaining, incorporating pop culture and wicked metaphors. The sound is punk-inspired pop, complete with catchy hooks, steady riffs, and stinging lyrics. They have a distinctly UK sound to them, building on the Arctic Monkeys and others, but adding small twists here and there that set them apart from their European peers. Their harmonizing ability is fantastic, and they are not afraid to showcase it; the first track is an a capella piece about boys, girls, and marsupials. These tongue-in-cheek lyrics are not only hilarious, but also compliment the catchy, quirky sound the band relies on. It's still purely pop music, not much more, but certain bands (Wombats, Kooks) can just bring it in a way others can't (Kaiser Chiefs).
The Devil + You + Me - Notwist
- The sound of this German band is entirely unique. They blend pop with electronic effects and very subdued vocals to create large, sweeping sounds that maintain a certain catchiness to them. The vocals are subdued and subtle, acting as more of a bridge between beats and effects than a focal point. This album builds upon their previous effort, Neon Golden, continuing to bring a pop-aesthetic and accessibility to their style of electronic music. The effects the Notwist utilize are amazing as well, they seamlessly transition from a hard-hitting beat to long, drawn out ambiance...Easily one of the best live shows of 2008.
Other Favorites of 2008 -
Narrow Stairs - Death Cab
Attack & Release - Black Keys
Antidotes - Foals
Oracular Spectacular - MGMT
Conor Oberst - Conor Oberst
Honeysuckle Weeks - Submarines
I could go on forever......
12.20.2008
12.18.2008
2008, part 1
I've read Rolling Stone, EW, Paste, Under the Radar, and Spin...to find that each has a very different idea of what the best albums of the year are.
Here is my list of my personal favorite albums and songs as well as my New Year's resolutions for the big '09...Just go in knowing you won't agree.
So here we go.
Fantastic albums of 2008 that I haven't gotten 100% in to yet, but have a perfectly legitimate reason as to why I didn't.....
Skeletal Lamping - Of Montreal
- OK, I was massively in love with Hissing Fauna, so I'm still not totally over that one. This new one is a solid album, as Kevin Barnes doesn't really ever fail to impress...but everyone knows that Of Montreal's appeal is in their live spectacle. Their live show just gets more and more elaborate, outrageous, and lively; this to the point that I still don't really remember what songs I enjoyed during their two-hour set. I blame it on the live show. I really need to start fresh with this one.
A Mad and Faithful Telling - Devotchka
- I will always love Devotchka, as they are extremely talented musicians and piece together fantastic, eclectic sounds that you just don't hear often. That accordion is stunning as is the viola, tuba, and trumpet. The mandolin is great...I can go on. They're easily one of the more classical-sounding bands out there, but mend their sound into new, innovative things. And their live show featured an acrobat. Seriously.
Dear Science - TVOTR
- I will never forget the Staring at the Sun EP and will always long for that sound. The new one is polished, produced, and includes sounds that I'm still picking out for the first time. I didn't get to see them this year, but am always floored by their live sets. I blame this one on school and their Wiltern show falling on a Monday. Otherwise, I know I need to catch up with this album, seeing as how it ended up #1 on two of the five magazines mentioned above. Tunde Adibimpe is so full of life and Dave Sitek's production are super clean, even with the mish-mash of instruments and sounds TVOTR employs. I already know this album's great, I just need to listen a bit and realize exactly why.
Nouns - No Age
- I get it but I don't get it. Art-punk. I've heard punk and I've heard artsy indie stuff, but maybe I missed the old art-punk movement that everyone likes to talk about. Either way, I saw these dudes twice in the last year in two different cities, and enjoyed every minute of them. They hail from LA (their Night Rippers album cover is a building about 2 blocks from my work!) and have a gritty feel to them. They're loud and lo-fi (which is a test for the ears) but integrate long soundscapes that I figure are put the "art" into their sound. For two guys, they sure can make your ears buzz...not always such a bad thing.
Modern Guilt - Beck
- Beck is Beck and that's all there is to it. If this album was a debut, it'd easily be in the top 5 of everyone's list. Beck is just that good. The guy works his ass off and produces albums that make everyone else look...well, not as fun. Beck can get a party moving with massive beats or freak you out a little with samplers and drum machines. All this while doing his pseudo-rap-thing. He's definitely earned his reputation and has solidified himself as one of LA's finest exports. Beck can bring it. Because he's Beck.
Elephant Shell - Tokyo Police Club
- I'm still caught up on their EP. That's only 4-5 songs...but I cannot get enough. I've been putting this one off for far too long. So I'm listening to it as I blog here. And it's pretty nifty so far...
The Bedlam in Goliath - Mars Volta
- What can be said about Mars Volta that hasn't been said already? Bedlam is more of the same...but by the same I mean it's innovative, unique, prog-thumping, art-inspired, craziness. I love it...but still miss the De-Loused days.
Feed the Animals - Girl Talk
- I'll admit it, I don't like the source material so how could I fully dig the album? Well, to debate Gregg Gillis' talent would be a stupid, stupid move, since they guy is an absolute genius. What he does here is amazing, simple as that. Like the Avalanches a few years back, I am floored by the amount of time and work that went into this album. This is like the Monet of sampling. Taking mostly boring material and creating something amazing. But although I respect it, I always thought impressionism was just okay. It's more personal taste than merit. Girl Talk is still amazing.
The Stand Ins - Okkervil River
- I know it's good. But I'm still hung up on Don't Fall In Love With Everyone You See. I just got into them a year or so ago. Give me some time to catch up...
...That being said, I haven't had a chance/been in the mood for these...yet. Their time will come...
Microcastle - Deerhunter
Offend Maggie - Deerhoof
The Age of the Understatement - Last Shadow Puppets [even though I bought it in London...]
For Emma, For Ever Ago - Bon Iver
Furr - Blitzen Trapper
The Hawk Is Howling - Mogwai
Acid Tongue - Jenny Lewis
Before the favorites, let's examine the let-downs...
Intimacy - Bloc Party
- I have nothing against emo, but this is like emo-techno that really doesn't make a lot of sense.
Fasciination - The Faint
- I wanted to so very badly, but I could not get into this album. A long way from Blank Wave Arcade. Ironically, released on The Faint's new label, Blank Wav.
Evil Urges - My Morning Jacket
- I don't even want to talk about this one. I don't understand how people understand it. I must be out of the loop. But "Highly Suspicious" sounds like drunk karaoke. I was supremely saddened by this one...I tried.
Something for the People - Broken Social Scene
- It's Brendan Canning's work. Maybe I'm not too big a fan of his and really really have a special place for Kevin Drew's stuff. It's not a bad album by the least...but it's a far cry from the s/t.
She and Him
- I don't get it. I want more M Ward.
And finally, my all-favorites list of 2009...I'll write it in a few days.
Here is my list of my personal favorite albums and songs as well as my New Year's resolutions for the big '09...Just go in knowing you won't agree.
So here we go.
Fantastic albums of 2008 that I haven't gotten 100% in to yet, but have a perfectly legitimate reason as to why I didn't.....
Skeletal Lamping - Of Montreal
- OK, I was massively in love with Hissing Fauna, so I'm still not totally over that one. This new one is a solid album, as Kevin Barnes doesn't really ever fail to impress...but everyone knows that Of Montreal's appeal is in their live spectacle. Their live show just gets more and more elaborate, outrageous, and lively; this to the point that I still don't really remember what songs I enjoyed during their two-hour set. I blame it on the live show. I really need to start fresh with this one.
A Mad and Faithful Telling - Devotchka
- I will always love Devotchka, as they are extremely talented musicians and piece together fantastic, eclectic sounds that you just don't hear often. That accordion is stunning as is the viola, tuba, and trumpet. The mandolin is great...I can go on. They're easily one of the more classical-sounding bands out there, but mend their sound into new, innovative things. And their live show featured an acrobat. Seriously.
Dear Science - TVOTR
- I will never forget the Staring at the Sun EP and will always long for that sound. The new one is polished, produced, and includes sounds that I'm still picking out for the first time. I didn't get to see them this year, but am always floored by their live sets. I blame this one on school and their Wiltern show falling on a Monday. Otherwise, I know I need to catch up with this album, seeing as how it ended up #1 on two of the five magazines mentioned above. Tunde Adibimpe is so full of life and Dave Sitek's production are super clean, even with the mish-mash of instruments and sounds TVOTR employs. I already know this album's great, I just need to listen a bit and realize exactly why.
Nouns - No Age
- I get it but I don't get it. Art-punk. I've heard punk and I've heard artsy indie stuff, but maybe I missed the old art-punk movement that everyone likes to talk about. Either way, I saw these dudes twice in the last year in two different cities, and enjoyed every minute of them. They hail from LA (their Night Rippers album cover is a building about 2 blocks from my work!) and have a gritty feel to them. They're loud and lo-fi (which is a test for the ears) but integrate long soundscapes that I figure are put the "art" into their sound. For two guys, they sure can make your ears buzz...not always such a bad thing.
Modern Guilt - Beck
- Beck is Beck and that's all there is to it. If this album was a debut, it'd easily be in the top 5 of everyone's list. Beck is just that good. The guy works his ass off and produces albums that make everyone else look...well, not as fun. Beck can get a party moving with massive beats or freak you out a little with samplers and drum machines. All this while doing his pseudo-rap-thing. He's definitely earned his reputation and has solidified himself as one of LA's finest exports. Beck can bring it. Because he's Beck.
Elephant Shell - Tokyo Police Club
- I'm still caught up on their EP. That's only 4-5 songs...but I cannot get enough. I've been putting this one off for far too long. So I'm listening to it as I blog here. And it's pretty nifty so far...
The Bedlam in Goliath - Mars Volta
- What can be said about Mars Volta that hasn't been said already? Bedlam is more of the same...but by the same I mean it's innovative, unique, prog-thumping, art-inspired, craziness. I love it...but still miss the De-Loused days.
Feed the Animals - Girl Talk
- I'll admit it, I don't like the source material so how could I fully dig the album? Well, to debate Gregg Gillis' talent would be a stupid, stupid move, since they guy is an absolute genius. What he does here is amazing, simple as that. Like the Avalanches a few years back, I am floored by the amount of time and work that went into this album. This is like the Monet of sampling. Taking mostly boring material and creating something amazing. But although I respect it, I always thought impressionism was just okay. It's more personal taste than merit. Girl Talk is still amazing.
The Stand Ins - Okkervil River
- I know it's good. But I'm still hung up on Don't Fall In Love With Everyone You See. I just got into them a year or so ago. Give me some time to catch up...
...That being said, I haven't had a chance/been in the mood for these...yet. Their time will come...
Microcastle - Deerhunter
Offend Maggie - Deerhoof
The Age of the Understatement - Last Shadow Puppets [even though I bought it in London...]
For Emma, For Ever Ago - Bon Iver
Furr - Blitzen Trapper
The Hawk Is Howling - Mogwai
Acid Tongue - Jenny Lewis
Before the favorites, let's examine the let-downs...
Intimacy - Bloc Party
- I have nothing against emo, but this is like emo-techno that really doesn't make a lot of sense.
Fasciination - The Faint
- I wanted to so very badly, but I could not get into this album. A long way from Blank Wave Arcade. Ironically, released on The Faint's new label, Blank Wav.
Evil Urges - My Morning Jacket
- I don't even want to talk about this one. I don't understand how people understand it. I must be out of the loop. But "Highly Suspicious" sounds like drunk karaoke. I was supremely saddened by this one...I tried.
Something for the People - Broken Social Scene
- It's Brendan Canning's work. Maybe I'm not too big a fan of his and really really have a special place for Kevin Drew's stuff. It's not a bad album by the least...but it's a far cry from the s/t.
She and Him
- I don't get it. I want more M Ward.
And finally, my all-favorites list of 2009...I'll write it in a few days.
12.15.2008
Open Doors
Along a short drive home, I began to think about this blog. Mostly about my realization that music is a fundamental property of human nature. A little about how music is created and how it evolves to become something new and, at times, revolutionary. I was going to write about that.
But that can wait for the next rainy day...
I flipped to myspace and noticed Transit Studio, a project of Jeff & Ryan (of Best Interest), had about 20,000 friends and a fantastic looking myspace page. I read their bio and realized that these dudes did it. They've gotten MTV play, KROQ play, and a spot on Warped Tour...They even have Spartpunk ads offering their cd at $6. I started thinking about the Best Interest days and how far those guys have come since; their Transit Studio work is pretty refined and the levels sound fantastic...and I assume the recordings are Chris, not Justin. That's 3/4 of Best Interest doing their own thing and making it. They rank up with that PV band in terms of popularity and KROQ-ness. Totally awesome bro!
(can't recall the first band, but the brother was in HelloGoodbye)
At Patrick Molloy's I ran into Kenji, the other 1/4 of Best Interest of the old days. This guy is a guitar legend to us and now, he even looks like a rock star. He's doing his thing too, with studio work and a whole bunch of other stuff I can only imagine. He's doing a thing called Gardena, and is working as a bassist. Chris moved from Transit Studio to this project, which is pretty awesome...if you haven't seen Chris' video from youtube yet, check it out.
Anyway, beyond the Best Interest crew, there's Stinky Pinky, steadily working towards releasing their first EP. Which will be pretty amazing, considering what's already out there. These guys are great live and could no doubt fill a place. Their myspace already has some jams posted, including a nice live version of "Push Comes to Shove". Doing shows with Wells of People is also a fantastic thing, as each band brings it. Hopefully Wells can secure some LA/LB gigs to expand the audience and get a true reading of what everyone wants. It should come soon.
Finally, there's the connections, the people that are working all around the Southland, silently going about work, making connections and forming relationships with some good people. The doors are opening and it's only a matter of time until something breaks; until the final straw falls to break the camel's back. I can't help but be floored by how much music is coming out of this little scene we have here in the South Bay. The days of Pennywise over in Hermosa are long gone...now a new thing is evolving that encompasses so many elements...hip-hop, dub rock, indie rock, electronica, reggae, punk...[And is it just me or are Saxons leading the way?] We anticipate whatever is ahead with open arms and wide eyes...don't say you weren't warned...
Keep coming out to the local shows and maybe one day, you can say you were there.
But that can wait for the next rainy day...
I flipped to myspace and noticed Transit Studio, a project of Jeff & Ryan (of Best Interest), had about 20,000 friends and a fantastic looking myspace page. I read their bio and realized that these dudes did it. They've gotten MTV play, KROQ play, and a spot on Warped Tour...They even have Spartpunk ads offering their cd at $6. I started thinking about the Best Interest days and how far those guys have come since; their Transit Studio work is pretty refined and the levels sound fantastic...and I assume the recordings are Chris, not Justin. That's 3/4 of Best Interest doing their own thing and making it. They rank up with that PV band in terms of popularity and KROQ-ness. Totally awesome bro!
(can't recall the first band, but the brother was in HelloGoodbye)
At Patrick Molloy's I ran into Kenji, the other 1/4 of Best Interest of the old days. This guy is a guitar legend to us and now, he even looks like a rock star. He's doing his thing too, with studio work and a whole bunch of other stuff I can only imagine. He's doing a thing called Gardena, and is working as a bassist. Chris moved from Transit Studio to this project, which is pretty awesome...if you haven't seen Chris' video from youtube yet, check it out.
Anyway, beyond the Best Interest crew, there's Stinky Pinky, steadily working towards releasing their first EP. Which will be pretty amazing, considering what's already out there. These guys are great live and could no doubt fill a place. Their myspace already has some jams posted, including a nice live version of "Push Comes to Shove". Doing shows with Wells of People is also a fantastic thing, as each band brings it. Hopefully Wells can secure some LA/LB gigs to expand the audience and get a true reading of what everyone wants. It should come soon.
Finally, there's the connections, the people that are working all around the Southland, silently going about work, making connections and forming relationships with some good people. The doors are opening and it's only a matter of time until something breaks; until the final straw falls to break the camel's back. I can't help but be floored by how much music is coming out of this little scene we have here in the South Bay. The days of Pennywise over in Hermosa are long gone...now a new thing is evolving that encompasses so many elements...hip-hop, dub rock, indie rock, electronica, reggae, punk...[And is it just me or are Saxons leading the way?] We anticipate whatever is ahead with open arms and wide eyes...don't say you weren't warned...
Keep coming out to the local shows and maybe one day, you can say you were there.
12.06.2008
Swimming Pool
Work work work...
The Year's Best List...
Is a sham and is only a weirdo look into the personal biases of [insert blogger's name here]'s favorite shit from any set period of time. As such, please accept my apology for posting my personal favorite...things...in the coming weeks. I just need a place to vent, to complain, and to try and force my musical tastes onto you. But hey, maybe you'll pick something up somewhere along the line and think, "hey, I saw this on that blog...maybe the dude is on to something...". That's where my personal satisfaction comes from. Knowing that I made you cooler. Ha Ha.
For now...
-Give the Submarines a chance
-Listen to Loyalty to Loyalty 3 times in a row
-Check out School of Seven Bells...but do a drug first...
-GO SEE-
Wells of People & Stinky Pinky
Wednesday, December 5th
Patrick Molloy's at Hermosa
The Year's Best List...
Is a sham and is only a weirdo look into the personal biases of [insert blogger's name here]'s favorite shit from any set period of time. As such, please accept my apology for posting my personal favorite...things...in the coming weeks. I just need a place to vent, to complain, and to try and force my musical tastes onto you. But hey, maybe you'll pick something up somewhere along the line and think, "hey, I saw this on that blog...maybe the dude is on to something...". That's where my personal satisfaction comes from. Knowing that I made you cooler. Ha Ha.
For now...
-Give the Submarines a chance
-Listen to Loyalty to Loyalty 3 times in a row
-Check out School of Seven Bells...but do a drug first...
-GO SEE-
Wells of People & Stinky Pinky
Wednesday, December 5th
Patrick Molloy's at Hermosa
11.23.2008
Fall Rewind
Every year, I see way too many shows. I need an interesting way to document them, so I tend to make lists and put lots of posters and concert tickets up on my walls. Or I go online and make lists that are completely arbitrary to everyone but me...so here it is for nobody to care about.
Show Recap, 2008...PART 1 since I'm going to forget about a few, I just know it
plus the year isn't even over yet!
2008 was highlighted by a stretch in September that consisted of 5 shows spanning just over 1 week. It was ridiculous, dangerous, inspiring, and amazing...something I suggest to everyone...
09.16 Devotchka @ the El Rey
- Devotchka alone is a spectacle; throw in a gymnast rolling around and doing flips in a cirque du soleil ribbon-type contraption and you have a wicked burlesque-inspired, eastern folk adventure. Devotchka does it up often, and they do it well. Tubas, mandolins...and a guy who can, for lack of better words, tear up a violin and accordion. And he wears a suit. And the drummer plays the trumpet. Mighty cool.
09.17 MGMT @ Fonda
- Now this show...I had no idea what to expect, and realized upon arrival that MGMT had made it. The place was more packed than I had ever seen it and people were begging out front for extra tickets. Those art rockers sure know how to pack a place. I'd have to say the show was a bit of a letdown, although no fault of the band. The place was just amazingly packed to the brim, and inside the theater the temperature rose about 15 degrees. Uncomfortable...but the performance certainly was something.
09.21 My Morning Jacket @ Greek
- I took my parents to this show. Jim James recently played in Iowa City and fell off the stage, requiring the postponement of a few shows. After watching these guys, I can see how that would be a definite possibility. A nice relaxing night outdoors at the Greek was really anything but, as MMJ blasted the thousands in attendance with cuts spanning four albums, playing for well over two hours. Jim James' melodic howls set the tone for the rest of the band; the guys are damn hard workers who can smash away at their instruments to create a sweetly Southern sounding art-rock that can really only be experienced live. They finished with the epic "One Big Holiday", which must have stirred up some curiosity in the nearby Los Feliz neighborhood. Hearing that huge opening build-up is an Arcade Fire-like catharsis, and nobody seems to be feeling it more than James. Rock on MMJ, even though your new album was wacko...
09.23 Fleet Foxes @ El Rey
- I have had the privilege of seeing these guys twice this year, and both times have really blown me away. Sure they're the most recent indie-rock buzz band, but these guys will stick around. At Spaceland, I could only imagine hearing this stuff at the Greek or at Red Rocks, echoing throughout the place, heavy reverb and all. At the El Rey, they completely blew me away, even with the same songs. "Oliver James" is something to see, as Robin Pecknold just belts the thing out over a soft, minimalist acoustic guitar. And "Winter White Hymnal" is awesome as virtually every member of the band contributes his voice perfectly. I'd see them many times again...probably at the Wiltern or something huge next time...
09.24 Cold War Kids @ Fonda
- These guys are great, and the fact that they're from down the road in the LB makes them that much better. CWK have a unique sound that I can't just describe; their lyrics tell epic stories about ordinary people, especially since the release of "Loyalty to Loyalty". Their music is unique as well, with prominent piano and catchy drum beats. Slick bass lines and a complementary lead guitar interjecting in perfect spots lead to an old-fashioned yet modern feel to modern rock. It also doesn't hurt that their merch is some of the best ever. CWK just have a sense of style and storytelling unrivaled by many indie bands. They can take you away to many a cold, dark street or dimly lit theater...somewhere something interesting is happening without people really knowing about it...exactly like the Fonda that night. I sincerely think this band will be huge...nothing else sounds close. And they're from LB!
Show Recap, 2008...PART 1 since I'm going to forget about a few, I just know it
plus the year isn't even over yet!
2008 was highlighted by a stretch in September that consisted of 5 shows spanning just over 1 week. It was ridiculous, dangerous, inspiring, and amazing...something I suggest to everyone...
09.16 Devotchka @ the El Rey
- Devotchka alone is a spectacle; throw in a gymnast rolling around and doing flips in a cirque du soleil ribbon-type contraption and you have a wicked burlesque-inspired, eastern folk adventure. Devotchka does it up often, and they do it well. Tubas, mandolins...and a guy who can, for lack of better words, tear up a violin and accordion. And he wears a suit. And the drummer plays the trumpet. Mighty cool.
09.17 MGMT @ Fonda
- Now this show...I had no idea what to expect, and realized upon arrival that MGMT had made it. The place was more packed than I had ever seen it and people were begging out front for extra tickets. Those art rockers sure know how to pack a place. I'd have to say the show was a bit of a letdown, although no fault of the band. The place was just amazingly packed to the brim, and inside the theater the temperature rose about 15 degrees. Uncomfortable...but the performance certainly was something.
09.21 My Morning Jacket @ Greek
- I took my parents to this show. Jim James recently played in Iowa City and fell off the stage, requiring the postponement of a few shows. After watching these guys, I can see how that would be a definite possibility. A nice relaxing night outdoors at the Greek was really anything but, as MMJ blasted the thousands in attendance with cuts spanning four albums, playing for well over two hours. Jim James' melodic howls set the tone for the rest of the band; the guys are damn hard workers who can smash away at their instruments to create a sweetly Southern sounding art-rock that can really only be experienced live. They finished with the epic "One Big Holiday", which must have stirred up some curiosity in the nearby Los Feliz neighborhood. Hearing that huge opening build-up is an Arcade Fire-like catharsis, and nobody seems to be feeling it more than James. Rock on MMJ, even though your new album was wacko...
09.23 Fleet Foxes @ El Rey
- I have had the privilege of seeing these guys twice this year, and both times have really blown me away. Sure they're the most recent indie-rock buzz band, but these guys will stick around. At Spaceland, I could only imagine hearing this stuff at the Greek or at Red Rocks, echoing throughout the place, heavy reverb and all. At the El Rey, they completely blew me away, even with the same songs. "Oliver James" is something to see, as Robin Pecknold just belts the thing out over a soft, minimalist acoustic guitar. And "Winter White Hymnal" is awesome as virtually every member of the band contributes his voice perfectly. I'd see them many times again...probably at the Wiltern or something huge next time...
09.24 Cold War Kids @ Fonda
- These guys are great, and the fact that they're from down the road in the LB makes them that much better. CWK have a unique sound that I can't just describe; their lyrics tell epic stories about ordinary people, especially since the release of "Loyalty to Loyalty". Their music is unique as well, with prominent piano and catchy drum beats. Slick bass lines and a complementary lead guitar interjecting in perfect spots lead to an old-fashioned yet modern feel to modern rock. It also doesn't hurt that their merch is some of the best ever. CWK just have a sense of style and storytelling unrivaled by many indie bands. They can take you away to many a cold, dark street or dimly lit theater...somewhere something interesting is happening without people really knowing about it...exactly like the Fonda that night. I sincerely think this band will be huge...nothing else sounds close. And they're from LB!
11.22.2008
November Blitz
Tonight kicks off a weekend unheard of since, well, mid September?
Tonight we have Mr. Kevin Barnes and the Of Montreal gang, undoubtedly ready to conjure up a whirlwind of dark, abstract lyrics sugar-coated and packaged into sweet, dance able hooks and melodies. All this set to a theatrical, surreal show chock full of lights, video screens, props, and wicked costumes. Rocking is not Kevin Barnes; freaking out is more along the lines of past shows (ninja fight anyone?). All this and more gives Of Montreal's live spectacle the feel of an intimate Radiohead or NIN show blasted into hyperdrive, through a galactic war between the gingerbread men o Candyland and the Smurfs (WHAT?). Just gotta go check it out.
Tomorrow comes Yeasayer, on their first headlining tour. These guys have something crazy going on and I have no idea how to describe it. I've seen them once before...but didn't really concentrate too hard on what was happening. This show, at the Troubadour, will pretty much force me to pay attention, what with the massive speakers, concrete floor, and sound bouncing off every imaginable surface 15 times over. Gotta love the Troub...
Finally, we cool off to a nice evening with the Decemberists, over at the Wiltern. Go early, get a wristband, chill out, have a beer, its the right kind of night to end a psychedelic little weekend. Colin Meloy's immense fairy tale epics will surely keep us all going well into the week...shame about that Long of It and Short of It going under...but with the new vinyl's and a new LP on the way, there really isn't much to complain about. Los Angeles, I'm Yours.
Come out to the shows, you really can't go wrong. I promise.
Tonight we have Mr. Kevin Barnes and the Of Montreal gang, undoubtedly ready to conjure up a whirlwind of dark, abstract lyrics sugar-coated and packaged into sweet, dance able hooks and melodies. All this set to a theatrical, surreal show chock full of lights, video screens, props, and wicked costumes. Rocking is not Kevin Barnes; freaking out is more along the lines of past shows (ninja fight anyone?). All this and more gives Of Montreal's live spectacle the feel of an intimate Radiohead or NIN show blasted into hyperdrive, through a galactic war between the gingerbread men o Candyland and the Smurfs (WHAT?). Just gotta go check it out.
Tomorrow comes Yeasayer, on their first headlining tour. These guys have something crazy going on and I have no idea how to describe it. I've seen them once before...but didn't really concentrate too hard on what was happening. This show, at the Troubadour, will pretty much force me to pay attention, what with the massive speakers, concrete floor, and sound bouncing off every imaginable surface 15 times over. Gotta love the Troub...
Finally, we cool off to a nice evening with the Decemberists, over at the Wiltern. Go early, get a wristband, chill out, have a beer, its the right kind of night to end a psychedelic little weekend. Colin Meloy's immense fairy tale epics will surely keep us all going well into the week...shame about that Long of It and Short of It going under...but with the new vinyl's and a new LP on the way, there really isn't much to complain about. Los Angeles, I'm Yours.
Come out to the shows, you really can't go wrong. I promise.
letdown
When it comes down to it, I get myself up out of bed, slide into this black office chair, and hunch over a keyboard covered in dust and old insound receipts to write a blog I sincerely believe nobody will read...but that's okay, isn't it? I expect it, and I embrace the idea of anonymity in an ever-more anonymous world. Are blogs not for the enjoyment of the writer infinitely more so than the reader? I can pretty much say anything I please after this line right here>>, for if you're still reading you probably want to hit that myspace.com tab up above and check what new friends your friends have. That's what I enjoy about the blog ideal today; it's exactly opposite of the xanga ideal we all shared so intimately in high school. Not so much an emotional call for help, a place for teenage angst and everything else they use to describe pop punk these days...it is an open door into the ego of employees, fans, critics, cynics, (pessimists? faithless?)...I fit 'em all twice over and welcome you with open arms. A journal for the 21st century, a place to call attention to yourself and a place for a reader to feel as if he has stumbled across lost thoughts from another place. But alas no, this will be an ever-changing photograph into the subconscious...here for the enjoyment of a few, more importantly for myself. In college, they post pictures all over the internet of themselves, I want to jump in. I indulge as much as the other guy, perhaps more so...After all, I'll be reading my blog more often than you ever will.
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