Tuesday, October 31, 2006

SXSW Information

Attention bands - don't forget this deadline is approaching......

Press Release

Music Festival Showcase Application Final Deadline

Austin, Texas - October 31, 2006 - For over 20 years, South by Southwest(SXSW) Music Conference and Festival has been bringing musicians, record company executives, club owners, radio programmers, journalists, publicistsand countless other people working in the music industry together. Over one thousand showcasing artists and solo acts from around the globe perform on60 stages over the course of five nights, March 14 - 18, 2007 in Austin,Texas. Online applications to perform at this extraordinary event are being accepted until Friday, November 10, 2006.

Applications to perform, MP3s and press materials are now being accepted electronically. Please access the website at www.sxsw.com/showcase and fillout the application online. The final application deadline is November 10,2006 for domestic acts, with a fee of $30. (The late application deadline for international acts has passed.) This year, all showcase applications must be filled out and paid for by credit card online. (Visa, MasterCard,American Express, Discover, and Diner's Club are accepted.) Once the onlineapplication has been completed, the primary contact will be sent aconfirmation email with instructions on how to upload MP3s, a biography, an artist photograph and a press kit. No more packing CDs, paying postage or worrying if SXSW received the packet!

Some of the musical genres featured at the SXSW Music Festival include alternative country, bluegrass, blues, country, DJ, electronic, experimental, hip-hop, jazz, Latin, metal, pop, rock, punk,singer/songwriter, world, and reggae.

2007 will be the 21st Anniversary of SXSW Music taking place March 14 - 18 at the Austin Convention Center and on stages throughout downtown Austin. Inaddition to the music festival, the conference will gather music business professionals to participate in panel discussions, workshops, one-on-one interviews and the Trade Show and Exhibition.

For more information or to register for the conference, visit www.sxsw.comor e-mail sxsw@sxsw.com.

Happy Halloween Music Options


If I was going out tonight I'd hit the Echo for Dios or the Mountain in Chinatown for the Sword. Those are my kinda parties, but other places will probably be a lot more festive. Hello WeHo.

Tonight's Pick
Dios Malos / Airborne Toxic Event @ the Echo - Dios is one of my favorite LA bands that isn't going to CMJ. Airborne Toxic Event is a new band that's just starting to play out a lot. I plan on seeing them soon.

The Sword / Year Long Disaster @ Mountain Bar in Chinatown – One of my favorite new heavy bands. If you missed them at the Avalon last weekend. They go on at 12:15. Year Long Disaster is Dave Davies’ son’s band.
Devo / Missing Persons / Bow Wow Wow @ Greek Theatre – I’ve seen Devo once and while a bit heavier around the midsection, they were still a lot of fun.
Ladytron / Midnight Movies @ El Rey ($25.50) – I’ve heard they’re not the most exciting live band on the planet, but they look good.
MSTRKRFT / Justice / Totally Radd @ Safari Sam’s ($25 dos) – Not my kinda party, but it will be a danceable party.
The Roots @ Avalon ($40) – Backpack rap.
Brazilian Girls @ Wiltern ($25) – For the downtempo/KCRW set.
The Deadly Syndrome @ Silverlake Lounge (Free w/costume, $8 w/o)
Honky / HDR @ the Scene

Monday, October 30, 2006

Los Angeles @ CMJ

Since everybody I’ve been talking to or about for the last few weeks is at CMJ, I figured I’d do a post about Los Angeles bands at CMJ. I’m sure I missed a few, but just look down the list and see the diversity of the LA music scene. A few of these guys are celebrating recent national attention from first albums (SSPU, Little Ones, Cold War Kids, Division Day), there are some promising new bands that most of us haven’t gotten a chance to see yet (Western States Motel, The Airborne Toxic Event, Ferraby Lionheart), and veteran bands that are celebrating their new albums (Irving and The Tyde) and another band that’s probably entertaining offers to release their next record (Earlimart). I had loads of fun the only time I went to CMJ. Other great bands that are playing this year include the Shins, Aloha and Secret Machines.

Tuesday 10/31/06
The Western States Motel @ Rockwood Music Hall 7:00PM
Listing Ship @ Midway 8:00PM
Run Run Run @ Piano’s 8:00PM
Monsters are Waiting @ Piano’s 9:00PM
Irving @ Piano’s 11:00PM - KCRW Showcase
Mickey Avalon @ Sin-E 1:00 AM

Wednesday 11/1/06
Darker My Love @ Sound Fix Records 2:00PM
The Little Ones @ Piano’s 2:00PM – Brooklyn Vegan Party
Division Day @ The Fader Sideshow 4
The Bird and the Bee @ Bowery Ballroom 7:45PM
Ferraby Lionheart @ Sin-E 8:30PM
Gray Kid @ Canal Room 8:50PM
Tom Brosseau @ Rockwood Music Hall 9:00PM
The Spores @ Arlene’s Grocery 11:15PM
Cold War Kids @ Bowery Ballroom 11:25PM
Gliss @ Pianos 1:00AM

Thursday 11/2/06
Juryrig Party @ The Cake Shop 1-6PM – Hosted by Kennedy with Irving doing a live set
The Spores [noon] / Tom Brosseau [1:00PM] @ Day Stage
Silversun Pickups @ the Puma Store Union Square 4:00PM
Madlib / Peanut Butter Wolf @ BB King’s 8:00PM
The Elected @ Bowery Ballroom 9:00PM
Mellowdrone @ R&R 9:00PM
Peter Walker @ Piano’s 9:10PM - Dangerbird Showcase
Lavender Diamond @ Northsix 9:30PM
Darker My Love @ Piano’s 10:00PM - Dangerbird Showcase
Kennedy @ Crash Mansion 10:45PM
Earlimart @ Northsix 11:30 PM
Silversun Pickups @ Piano’s 11:45PM - Dangerbird Showcase

Friday 11/3/06
Division Day @ Union Hall (time TBD)
The Little Ones @ Canal Room 8:30PM
The Broken West @ Knitting Factory Main Space 7:30PM - Merge Showcase
The Airborne Toxic Event @ R&R 11:00PM
Eleni Mandell @ Rebel 8:00PM
Division Day @ Union Hall 10:30PM

Saturday 11/4/06
Division Day @ Sin-E 12:30PM
The Broken West @ the Living Room - TBD BMI Daytime Party
Silversun Pickups @ Piano’s 4:30PM – Brooklyn Vegan party
The Watson Twins @ Irving Plaza 11:00PM
The Tyde @ Mercury Lounge 11:00PM

Monday Night Music Options 10/30/06

The Roots @ Avalon ($40) – Backpack rappers. I went through a Roots phase.
OK Go @ Troubadour (Sold Out) – Very few cared about them before that dancing video.
Rocket @ Spaceland (Free) - The last night of their residency.
Meeting Places / Mezzanine Owls @ Silverlake Lounge (Free) - The last night of The Meeting Places' residency.
Winter Flowers / Van She / The Softlightes @ the Echo (Free) - The last night of the Winter Flowers' residency. With a couple of Modular bands headed to CMJ.

Friday, October 27, 2006

Sunday Night Music Options 10/27/06

Stay home, carve a jack-o-lantern and watch Phantasm (unfortunately it's not on DVD).

OK Go @ Troubadour (Sold Out) - Internet videoes can really help.
Pere Ubu @ Royce Hall ($28-38)
Banyan @ the Mint ($15) – Nels Cline, Mike Watt and Stephen Perkins

Saturday Night Live Music Options 10/28/06

The Sword Play the Avalon on Saturday
Saturday Night's Pick:
The Sword / Trivium @ Avalon ($15) – For the metal fans. I’ve already seen Austin’s the Sword a coupla times this year, and that’s probably enough. But if you like retro metal and haven’t seen them, check it out. All the touring has made them extremely tight. They’re from the Ozzy/Sabbath school. Their album’s in contention for my top 20 this year. According to a friend Trivium sounds like a wussified version of early Metallica. The Sword’s “Winter’s Wolves
Also Playing:
Danava / Saviours @ Safari Sam’s ($10) – For the slightly more arty (but still heavy) metal fans. Danava are the Sword’s labelmates. Maybe hit that show first then jump over to Sam’s where the parking’s free and the drinks are much cheaper. Here’s a cool description from the Stranger: “Had David Bowie seduced Black Sabbath and the coupling been consummated in a waterbed of liquid LSD, the music would sound as epic as Danava's two demo songs." Saviors sound heavy too.
ESG /Mika Miko @ the Echo ($25) – This show’s been moved about 37 times so make sure you go to the right place. Old school punk/rap/disco group.
Forward Russia / Scanners @ Spaceland ($12) – I got both of these discs and never made it all the way through either one. If you like the post-punk dance bands, there might be something there that I missed.
Airborne Toxic Event @ the Cocaine (366 E. 2nd Street) – New local band that’s heading out to CMJ next week. Check out Radio Free Silver Lake for a band interview.
Stuart A. Staples / Eleni Mandell @ Troubadour ($25) – Gruff voiced singer-songwriter from the Tindersticks.
The Cramps / The Groovie Ghoulies @ House of Blues ($25) – They put on a show.
The Wau Wau Sisters @ Little Pedro’s – According to their website, Captured by Robots cancelled this show.
Alias & Tarsier Perform at the Echo Tonight
I tried to point out a little something for everybody.
Tonight's Pick:
Alias & Tarsier / Electric President / Occidental @ the Echo ($10) – For the Anticon / indie electronica/ hip hop crowd. I got the new Alias & Tarsier record in the mail and it’s good. Breathy female vocals and beats that go all over the place. Not a genre I listen to regularly, so I can’t write too intelligently about it. Electric President is a Morr music band which gives them some instant cred. Maybe a little Postal Service and a little Moby in their sound. Get there early and check out my friends Occidental. They play instrumental spacey indie music augmented by electronics.
Also Appearing:
Figurines / Mellowdrone @ Spaceland ($8) – For the indie rockers. Figurines are a Danish indie rock band that gets compared to Modest Mouse and Built to Spill. Download this track and you’ll understand immediately “The Wonder” – It’s a good track.
Heavens / Darker My Love @ Troubadour (Sold Out) – The dude from the Alkaline Trio making music influenced by Depeche Mode. Surprisingly the one track I’ve heard is better than most bands that try to sound like Depeche Mode. Darker My Love are a local psych-rock band that puts on a powerful live show.
John Prine / Jim James @ Wilshire Ebell (Sold Out) – John Prine’s a legendary folk singer-songwriter. I’ve only got his first record. “Hello In There” is a touching song about aging and loneliness. Jim James is the lead singer of My Morning Jacket. I’ve seen him do the acoustic solo thing before and it’s powerful. That big voice works well even without the electric guitar jams, head banging and heavy reverb. Hopefully the My Morning Jacket fans give Prine the respect he’s earned.
Mike Stinson @ Cinema Bar (Donations) – Cinema Bar is my favorite little dive bar on the West Side (on Sepulveda in Culver City). Elliott Smith was known to hop on stage from time to time. Stinson’s my favorite local country rocker. Gram Parsons and Merle Haggard inspired songwriting with the great Tony Gilkyson on guitar.
KMFDM @ the Fonda – Kill Mother F’ing Depeche Mode.
Jon Brion @ Largo – Get there way early if you don’t have reservations.
The Stiches / Thee L.A. Gentleman Callers @ the Scene ($5) – For the heavy rock fans.
The Bird & the Bee / Pity Party @ Silverlake Lounge ($10) – KCRW crowd
Benji Hughes @ El Cid ($10) – Benji Hughes is one of the Fold’s favorite artists right now. He packs ‘em in.
I Can Lick Any Son of A Bitch in the House @ the Mint ($10) – I’ve never heard these guys, but I’ve always loved the name. It sounds like something my Grandpa would have told me when I was six.

Thursday, October 26, 2006

Thursday Night Music - 10/26/2006

Micah P. Hinson Plays Spaceland Tonight
Tonight's Pick:
Matt Pond PA / Micah P Hinson / The Broken West (f/k/a The Brokedown) @ Spaceland ($10) – If this scratchy throat doesn’t drag me down too much, I’ll be here. Matt Pond PA gets called emo for grownups, which makes me think of Death Cab for Cutie. They’ve also been on the OC soundtrack (covering Oasis). The real draw (for me anyway) is Micah P. Hinson and the Broken West.The Aquarium Drunkard seems to be a big fan of Hinson and what I’ve heard sounds really good. He’s plays slightly rootsy music and he has one of those soulful, melancholy voices that I’m often drawn to. Musically it fits along the lines of Iron & Wine (but less precious), Centro-Matic or Will Oldham. He’s gotten a 9/10 from NME, 4/5 from Mojo, 4/5 from Uncut. Download Hinson’s “Jackeyed” and “The Leading Guy” I write about The Broken West all the time, but still haven’t seen them yet. Hopefully tonight’s the night. They recently signed to Merge and changed their name (they were the Brokedown). This is LA Weekly’s pick too.
Also appearing:
Cursive / The Thermals @ Avalon ($18) – What's up with the Avalon? $15 parking. $11 for a drink. Ticketmaster fees on top of it all. You're talking about a $75 night minimum. These guys played the Troubadour last night. If I were a fan, I would have gone there instead.
Ferraby Lionheart @ Knitting Factory 6:00PM – Folk-pop. Lately a lot of people are talking about him lately.
CSS @ the Echo ($15 – adv tix sold out so get there early) – Brazilian sex disco for hipsters. I’m not gonna fault you if you like a dance party. Not everybody wants to be rocked to sleep every night. I do think it’s pretty terrible though.

Wednesday, October 25, 2006

Wednesday Night Music Options 10/25

Fookin' KOOKS
Too bad some of last night's shows didn't happen tonight.
The Kooks / Trainwreck Riders @ Spaceland ($10) – If you wanna be seen. British buzz band played Safari Sam’s last night. Anybody go? I think that RSVP thing confuses people. There are only a few tickets available at the door.
Cursive / The Thermals / Eastern Youth @ Troubadour (Sold Out) – I walked out on the Thermals at the F-Yeah Fest but other people seemed to love them. Also at the Avalon tomorrow night.
Nomeansno / Anavan @ Knitting Factory ($12)
Snoop Dogg @ Greek Theatre ($35-80) – I’ve recently come to the realization that Snoop’s not that good. About three or four songs is all you need.
The Twilight Singers with Greg Dulli and Mark Lanegan @ House of Blues ($20) – People say they put on a great show.

Tuesday, October 24, 2006

Top Five New Releases 10/24/06

Someone Still Loves You Boris Yeltsin
I haven't gotten my hands on any of this stuff yet, but I'm curious about these top five. Anybody have any recommendations this week?
Top Five New Releases:
Norfolk & Western: Unsung Colony (Hush) – He plays guitar with M. Ward so you know he’s got skills. They’ve got Theremins and glockenspiels. At the Hotel CafĂ© on 12/1/06. Download “A Gilded Age

The Skygreen Leopards: Disciples of California (Jagjaguwar) – These hippies don’t sound too bad. You don’t see too many bands that list Brewer & Shipley first in a list of influences. Download “Disciples of California

Someone Still Loves You Boris Yeltsin: Broom (Polyvinyl) – This record was previously self-released but now Polyvinyl’s releasing it with three additional tracks. Not that many bands from Springfield, MO. Chris Walla seems to like them and Spin threw out the Shins reference. These songs are both pleasant indie rock. Download “Oregon Girl” and “House Fire

Various Artists: The Harry Smith Project – Anthology of American Folk Music Revisited (Shout Factory) – Culled from the series of concerts from 1999-2001 that paid tribute to Smith. A two CD live collection of artists like Beck, Wilco, Van Dyke Parks, Lou Reed doing classic folk, along with a live DVD and a DVD documentary.

The Walkmen: Pussy Cats Starring the Walkmen (Record Collection) – The Walkmen recreate the Harry Nilsson album that John Lennon recorded during his lost weekend. I’ve been listening to my share of Nilsson lately, and it seems like he’s definitely having resurgence in attention. Pitchfork seemed perplexed that they would release this, and it is a bit odd.

Also Released:
+ / - : Let’s Build a Fire (Absolutely Kosher) – Brooklyn indie rockers are going on tour with Irving. Live at Spaceland on 11/16. Download “Steal the Blueprints
Jello Biafra: In the Grip of Official Treason (Alternative Tentacles) – A 3-CD release. Jello’s eighth spoken word record. From the AT site: “With Iraq gone to hell in a handbasket, Rome falling at home, and the so-called opposition Democrats "searching for a message" as they throw another election, it's high time for Jello Biafra and his merry mouth to tip the cow and set the barn on fire.” Live at El Rey on 11/20.
Bright Eyes: Noise Floor (Saddle Creek) – Oh Conor. Compilation of hard to find stuff.
The Curtains: Calamity (Asthmatic Kitty) – This guy used to be in Deerhoof. Pitchfork gave it a pretty good review yesterday. Download “Go Lucky
De La Soul: Impossible Mission (Red Lion Entertainment) – I go back and listen to 3 Feet High and Rising every once in a while.
Miho Hatori: Ecdysis (Rykodisc) – Do you remember Cibo Matto?
Aimee Mann: One More Drifter in the Snow (Superego Records) – Do you remember ‘Til Tuesday? At the Avalon on 12/9.
Moby: go – the very best of moby (V2) – Do you remember Moby?
Willie Nelson: Hill Country Christmas (Finer Arts)
Scott Walker: In Five Easy Pieces (Fontana) – A five disc box set of 93 remastered songs.
Sparta: Threes (Hollywood) – Live at the Avalon on 11/13.
Various: The World Is Gone (XL Recordings) – Electro-pop.
Lucinda Williams: Car Wheels on a Gravel Road (Mercury) – She’s very talented and this is one of her two essential records. A two-disc remastered version. The second disc is a live disc from 1998. Appearing at Royce Hall on 11/30.

Tuesday Night Music Picks 10/24/06


Another one of those crazy LA nights where I'd go to about seven of these shows if I lived in a normal city (presumably they'd all be on different nights).

Division Day / The Happy Hollows / Thailand @ Boardner’s [1652 N. Cherokee] ($7) – If you’re in the mood to support the local scene and see some good indie music. This show’s sponsored by the all around nice folks at Radio Free Silver Lake and KXLU (sorry I forgot to promote the Fundrazor – I suck but you can still pledge online). It’s the second installment of a new monthly night called Let’s Independent. I went to the first installment and had a ton of fun and saw some great bands. Division Day just got back from a wild tour where they endured car troubles, amp troubles and redneck cop troubles (a couple of them got thrown in the slammer and had to endure Brokeback Mountain jokes). But they’re home safe now (until they head to CMJ in a week). Their shows are always energetic and fun. You should definitely check them out (somebody please tell Ryan that if he knows what’s good for him, he’ll stop calling me duke-meister). I’m hearing a lot of great stuff from the cool kids about The Happy Hollows too. Download Division Day’s “Tigers

Bonnie “Prince” Billy @ the Smell ($10) – If you’re in the mood for some mellow country/folk singer-songwriter stuff. His albums are always really good, his live performances usually are ok. This is definitely easier than driving out to Malibu to see him tomorrow. You can’t drink at the Smell.

Secret Machines @ Union Station (Free) 8:30PM – If you’re in the mood for some high quality free music. Somebody gave me a full glass of Jack Daniels at the show last night and interfered with my intention of getting home at a decent hour. Then I went backstage and kept on drinking, further worsening the effect. The show was good with several great moments. Nice light show, not quite up to the El Rey show earlier this year, but still not much to complain about. For this show you have to ride public transportation into Union Station and then you’ll get in for free. Don’t drive down, because you’ll have to present your incoming ticket to get into the show. You can probably catch something else after this show.

Kennedy @ Key Club – If you’re in the mood for some humorous indie rock. Did you know Kennedy has 22,751 friends on Myspace and one of his tracks has been played 92,356 times.

Adem / Juana Molina @ the Echo ($15) – If you’re in the mood for some mellow electronic music. Adem makes electro-acoustic music (one of the only kinds of electronic music I like). His new record reminds me of the last record - about three or four songs I really like and the rest get deleted from my MP3 player. Definitely talented, but I just get a tad bored. I got sent the new Juana Molina record and it’s just not my thing. She’s talented though.

The Kooks / Chin Up Chin Up @ Safari Sam’s ($5) – If you’re in the mood for a crazy night of elbowing hipsters and record execs out of your way. If you read the British press, the Kooks are the next big thing. The Kooks are playing Spaceland tomorrow night too. Chin Up Chin Up has a pretty big blog following. It’s upbeat indie music. Download Chin Up Chin Up’s “This Harness Can’t Ride Anything

Say Hi to Your Mom / Metal Hearts @ Spaceland ($8) – If you’re in the mood for some indie pop in Silver Lake. I think Pitchfork has been a little harsh with this guy. They gave his new record a 5.3 and said: “Basically, imagine if Ben Gibbard fancied himself Bob Pollard.” I like it. I’ve listened to it at least 10 times, which for me is pretty good. Download “Snowcones and Puppies

The Deadly Syndrome @ Cinespace ($5) – They’re also playing on Halloween at the Silverlake Lounge.
Pop Levi / Earl Greyhound / Capitol Years / National Eye @ Silverlake Lounge ($8)

Beastie Boys @ the Fonda (Sold Out) - Totally forgot about this show. I'd go if somebody gave me free tickets. I've seen 'em years ago at Coachella and the Forum.

Monday, October 23, 2006



Tonight's Pick:
Secret Machines @ Avalon ($25) – They are an outstanding live band. Even though I bought tickets for Yo La Tengo, I’m going to Secret Machines instead. Their in-the-round show at El Rey earlier this year, is one of my concert highlights of the year. Even if you weren’t crazy about their most recent record, you’ll have a great time. If you’re unfamiliar with their music it’s trippy along the lines of Pink Floyd and Spiritualized with krautrock elements and bombastic drums.

Other Options:
Yo La Tengo / Why? @ the Fonda ($20) – For the indie rockers. Their latest album is a return to form. Ideally they would have edited 15-20 minutes out of it, but it’s still better than the last two records. They were a great live band in the mid 90’s, but I’ve been pretty bored the last couple of times I’ve seen them. Download “Beanbag Chair”
Meeting Places / Aaron Espinoza / The Parson Red Heads @ Silverlake Lounge (Free) – Three good bands for free. The Meeting Places play dreamy guitar rock. Aaron Espinoza is the lead singer of Earlimart and the Parson Red Heads play 1960s (Byrds, Zombies, CSN&Y) inspired rock. If I wasn’t going to Secret Machines I’d check it out. Download Meeting Places “Hall of Fame” Download (from Pitchfork) Earlimart’s “Everybody Knows Everybody
Rocket / The Capitol Years / Something For Rockets @ Spaceland (Free) – Rocket continues their residency.
Winter Flowers / Entrance @ the Echo (Free)

Friday, October 20, 2006

Sunday Night Music Picks 10/22/06

I Sincerely Hope Bonnie "Prince" Billy Does Not Wear This on Sunday
Bonnie “Prince” Billy @ McCabe’s (Sold Out) – I’m still listening to the new record, but maybe not enjoying it quite as much as the A- I gave it would indicate. I’m just not hat into the woman’s voice. I’ve seen Oldham a few times and he’s pretty good. Usually his voice starts to weaken about half way through the performance. The crowd grew extremely restless when he opened for Bjork at the Hollywood Bowl. He’s still a major talent and I’ll never feel bad giving him my money. I got my copy of the new CD at Sea Level and it came with a really good bonus disc. Very cool of Drag City to do that for indie record stores. Also on Tuesday at the Smell and in Malibu on Wednesday.

Lou Barlow / You Am I @ Spaceland ($12) – I always enjoy seeing Lou Barlow. People in LA don’t seem to appreciate him as much as they should. He’ll play some of your favorites. Check out these old flyers he found while recording the new Dinosaur Jr. album. Slightly J obsessed. He’s also got a cool photo of Elliott Smith with Jeff Buckley on his site.
Comets on Fire / Kyp Malone solo (of TV on the Radio) / Fiery Furnaces and tons of others @ Downtown Palace Theatre ($24) – This is the last night of the Arthur Nights fest. People like Jeff Weiss swear by Comets on Fire’s explosive psychedelic rock. I like that new TV on the Radio record. Fiery Furnaces pretty much annoy the hell out of me.
Oxford Collapse / The Joggers / Capitol Years @ Knitting Factory ($10 adv / $12 dos) – Oxford Collapse got my attention because they’re the first band I’ve ever seen that listed the Embarrassment as one of their major influences. The Embarrassment was an early 80’s post-punk band from Wichita, KS. The Feelies and Mission of Burma also get thrown around when describing them. I picked up the record and it’s decent. I’ll give it a letter grade of B-. You can download my favorite song (“Please Visit Your National Parks”) from the record from Sub Pop.
UK Subs @ Key Club
She Wants Revenge @ Greek – If you must.

Saturday Night Live Picks 10-20-2006

The Decemberists Play the Wiltern on Saturday
Saturday's Pick:
The Decemberists / Lavender Diamond @ Wiltern (Sold Out) –The new album is their best one yet. I have really been enjoying it. Only seen them once (at Spaceland) and it was good. On a related note: Many were skeptical when they signed with a major. Their signing does provide a quick lesson in indie record store economics. Guess who really supported the Decemberists when they were on Kill Rock Stars? Indie record stores. Guess how much Best Buy has been selling the Decemberists’ album for to the general public? $7.99. Guess how much EMD charges your average indie record store for the new Decembrists album? A bit over $12. Guess where indie record stores get their copies of the Decembrists from? Best Buy. Guess how many copies of the new Decemberists get double counted in Sound Scan? (Actually I have no idea, but it does happen). Anyway, it totally sucks for indie record stores. Will you miss them when they’re gone? I will. Download “The Soldiering Life” Lavender Diamond are totally hippie dippy. They’re calling this “Fall Peace Concerts 2006.” People love it when she goes for those high notes, fails, gets distracted and stops singing and talks to the crowd instead. Download “You Broke My Heart
Also Appearing:
Beirut @ the Troubadour (Sold Out) – You sophisticated blog readers probably already know all about this 19-year old from Albuquerque. His bio says it accurately: “…it may sound like an entire Balkan gypsy orchestra playing modern songs as mournful ballads and upbeat marches” I kinda wish I had tickets for this one. Download “From Italy
Sun Ra Arkestra / Money Mark / Michael Hurley / Six Organs of Admittance / Future Pigeon / Living Sisters (with Van Dyke Parks ) @ Downtown Palace Theatre ($24) – Once again, this is like school for aspiring music snobs. Becky Stark is going to have a busy night.
Mew @ El Rey ($15) – The new album is interesting. Not sure if I love it, but worth giving it a listen. From the All Music Guide: “Fans of OK Computer-era Radiohead, My Bloody Valentine, and Disintegration-era Cure will find And the Glass Handed Kites one of the most breathtaking things to come along since the dawn of the dream pop/post-punk genres themselves.”
Detroit Cobras @ Key Club ($15) – Basically a really good soul cover band that plays songs you’ve never heard of. I’ve seen ‘em. Very energetic live performance.
The Starlite Desperation @ Spaceland ($8) – KXLU is presenting this show, which reminds me that I totally forgot to mention the KXLU Fundrazor. You should support them. I know if you live on the eastside, it’s difficult to get rececption, but so many of your favorite local musicians put in time at KXLU. And wearing a KXLU t-shirt is always cool.
Now It’s Overhead @ Sea Level 4:00PM (Free) – If you’re into that Saddle Creek scne. Also playing later that night at the Knitting Factory for $12.

Friday Night Music Options - 10/20/06

Boris Plays Arthur Nights Tonight

Boris / Be Your Own Pet / Awesome Color and tons of others @ Downtown Palace Theatre ($24) – For the adventurous. I heard last night’s Arhtur Nights show was pretty good. Devendra’s adoring fans loved him. Jansch was good, but the venue not as intimate as prior trips to LA. See tonight’s set times HERE. People rave about Boris’ Japanese drone rock. Be Your Own Pet are the Nashville “action punk” teens that Thurston Moore signed. A good friend recently turned me on to Awesome Color and I’m really digging them. They kinda mix Sabbath with the Stooges with ZZ Top. Unfortunately they’re playing at 7:20 and there’s no way in hell I can get there in time on a Friday night.

Innaway / In Waves / Polus @ the Scene ($5) – For the psych rockers. My friend Allen’s booking the Scene now, so I’ll probably make it over there more often. He knows music and sees everybody, so keep your eye on their calendar. I’ve heard great things about psychedelic rockers, Innaway. They’ve even toured with Echo & the Bunnymen.
Bob Dylan @ the Forum ($55) – Just searched and tickets are still available.
Mike Stinson @ Vine Street Lounge – For the country-rock/honky tonk fans. I’m a big Stinson fan.
The Parson Red Heads @ Lava Lounge ($5) – I’m a big fan of these guys too. Nice sixties inspired sound.
Two Gallants / Langhorne Slim @ Troubadour ($14) – If you read other blogs, look at Pitchfork or Youtube then you’ve probably heard about the Two Gallants police incident in Houston.
Year Long Disaster /Lions @ Spaceland – Dave Davies’ son
Swollen Members @ El Rey ($15) – For the backpack rappers.

Thursday, October 19, 2006

Thursday Night Music Picks 10/19/06

Damien Jurado Plays the Hotel Cafe Tonight
Tonight's Picks:
Start Here -
The Little Ones / Virgin Tears @ Hollywood & Highland 8:00-10:00PM (Free) – For the nerdy indie pop fans (guilty). The Little Ones are on Astralwerks now. Their live shows are notoriously energetic (but too geeky for some). Their EP is fantastic. Pick it up immediately if you like sunny indie pop.
Then go here -
Damien Jurado / Rosie Thomas @ Hotel CafĂ© – For the more Americana singer-songwriter fans. He’s a very talented dude but very mellow. Consider yourself warned. Download his version of Nick Drake’s “Pink Moon” (from Spin). You know who has done some really great Drake covers? Beck.
Also Appearing:
Bert Jansch / Devendra Banhart @ Downtown Palace Theatre ($24) – For the stinky hippies (just kidding – sort of). The first night of the Arthur Nights festival. Jansch’s new album is supposed to be his best album in years. He hasn’t played LA in eight years. Mad respect for him, but not really sure how excited I would be to see him live. Sitting down in a nice theatre is probably the way to do it.
Badly Drawn Boy @ Troubadour (Sold Out) – For the British singer-songwriter fans. See Wednesday’s picks
Qui with David Yow @ the Scene ($5) – For the abrasive rock fans. Qui love the Jesus Lizard. Playing with David Yow must be a dream.
The Ettes / The Village Green / The Purrs @ Spaceland – For the garage rock/60’s girl group fans. The Ettes are a local female led band on the Sympathy for the Record Industry label. This show is an LA Weekly pick. I saw the Village Green once and they did not remind me of the Kinks. The Purrs have a very active publicist.
Lyrics Born / Cut Chemist @ El Rey ($19) – For the backpack rappers.
The Pogues @ Wiltern ($50-65)

Wednesday, October 18, 2006

Wednesday Night Music Options 10/18/06


Tonight's Pick:
Badly Drawn Boy @ Troubadour (Sold Out) – For the singer-songwriter fans. Damon Gough has been on the Springsteen bandwagon for awhile (his new record’s called Born in the U.K.). The Killers recently expressed their love and The Hold Steady sound a helluva lot more like Sprinsteen than Gough ever will. While his new album’s getting panned by the critics (61 on Metacritic) and a 2.8 on Pitchfork, I have a hard time believing it’s really that bad. Ever since Gough won the Mercury prize for his debut album in 2000, critics have grown increasingly harsh (elevated expectations I suppose). I’ve got the new one at home, but haven’t listened to it yet. I’m sure it’s full of sad ballads and love songs.

Also Playing:
The Adored @ Spaceland ($8) – For the upbeat post-punk fans. I gave this one an honest listen. While it’s not my cup of tea, if you like the modern dance-y post-punk you’ll probably like it. They usually get compared to the Clash and Buzzcocks. Sign up for the GUESTLIST by sending your name and email address to clubnmersvp@spaceland.tv Download “TV Riot
Priestess / Nashville Pussy @ Key Club ($12) – For the rock/metal heads. Priestess is a really tight metal band along the lines of Motorhead who are much better live than on record. Nashville Pussy has been on the scene for a really, really long time. One time at a party their lead singer picked his nose and ate it while giving me a dirty look.
The Shore @ Silverlake Lounge ($8) – Here’s a pretty good description from the LA Alternative Press: “"Slow-burning rock tunes that toe the line between Buffalo Springfield-like country and contemporary Brit-pop. Strings, keyboards and harmonies weave freely throughout, sending the songs soaring with an airy weightlessness."
The Pogues / Murder By Death @ Wiltern ($50-65) – For the crazy Irishmen. Pricey. Also on Thursday and Friday.

Tuesday, October 17, 2006

Tuesday

Ladytron plays the John Anson tonight. Now less androgynous than before.
A little something for everybody tonight (except the metal and punk fans).
Ladytron / CSS @ John Anson Ford (Sold Out) – For fans of danceable rock. The John Anson Ford is one of my favorite venues in town, but nobody ever seems to play there. While these don’t seem to be the right kinds of bands to take advantage of the place, it should be fun. I’m not much of a fan of electro music, but Ladytron has always been much more melodic. I enjoy the new record quite a bit. Unlike a lot of bloggers, I don’t get CSS’s hipster-baiting dance-rock in any way.
Joseph Arthur @ El Rey ($15) – For singer-songwriter fans. He’s got a few songs I like, but he’s basically a slightly hipper version of Chris Martin from Coldplay. I saw him on Letterman recently and the outfits were out of control. His band has apparently spent a lot of time studying ironic, hipster fashion.
Matmos @ Jensen Rec Center ($20) – For fans of experimental electronic music. Their latest album featured ten songs about famous gay and lesbian philosophers, writers, filmmakers and musicians. They’ve also worked with Bjork.
Bettie Serveert / The Parson Red Heads / The Minor Canon @ Spaceland ($12) – For the indie rockers. I haven’t seen Bettie Serveert in over a decade. Do you think they know they’re Japanese label mates of my friends the Foxymorons? I really like The Parson Red Heads and I’ve only seen them once. They’re doing the free Monday night residency at the Echo in December.
Head Like a Kite / Catfish Haven @ Cinespace ($5) - I wrote about both these bands earlier this week.
Ferraby Lionheart / Delta Spirit @ Silverlake Lounge ($8) – This show’s being presented by the Rockinsider.com. You can email her to get in for $5. Click on her link to the right for MP3s and more information. I’m starting to see Ferraby Lionheart’s name a lot, but don’t know much about him/them?
Daedelus / DJ Nobody @ the Echo ($10) - For the underground hip hop fans.
Method Man with Masta Killa and Inspectah Deck @ House of Blues ($27.50) – For the hip hop fans.
Black Angels / The Tyde @ Troubadour ($12) – For the Brian Jonestown Massacre fans. Black Angels are from Austin and seem to really like Anton from BJM. The Tyde are an upbeat-Felt inspired local band that I enjoy and write about quite a bit. Download Black Angels’ “The First Vietnamese War
Mickey Champion @ Little Pedro's - For the soul fans.

Top Five New Record Releases 10/17/06

Annuals = North Carolina kids and blogger faves
Top Five New Releases:

Annuals: Be He Me (Ace Fu) – This is another band that bloggers are trying to take credit for hearing first. I’ve grown pretty skeptical of these bands, but this is an impressive debut. Their sound goes over the map a bit, but it really works for them. The first song has a little bit of Arcade Fire while other tracks have elements of the Flaming Lips, Polyphonic Spree and Broken Social Scene. There’s a fairly high degree of drama throughout the record which depending on your musical reference points you’ll probably interpret as either emo, Jeff Buckley, older Radiohead/Muse or maybe all three. The first half of the album has a manic energy that I can appreciate, while the second half of the album mellows out quite a bit (with only occasional outbursts). Download “Brother” (the most Arcade Fire-like song) Letter Grade: B

Badly Drawn Boy: Born in the UK (Astralwerks) – He loves the Boss, so the title’s pretty cheeky. I’m a fan of his voice and arrangements, but don’t listening to him all the time. His albums are always worth a listen. He’s playing the Troubadour on Wed 10/18 and Thur 10/19. Jon Brion usually joins him on stage for his LA performances. By the way, Jon Brion just added a Friday performance at Largo (and reservations aren’t booked up yet).

Jeremy Enigk: World Waits (Reincarnate) – Let me start by saying that with a few exceptions, I generally prefer understated music. But I did like the first two records from Enigk’s first band, Sunny Day Real Estate. I consider them the first wave of modern emo (with a lot of bands I liked in college right on their tails). The thing that really made Sunny Day Real Estate unique was Jeremy Enigk’s voice. Oddly, I’m not a huge fan of his voice. He definitely goes for maximum drama. These arrangements are vastly different than his last solo record (which I never really liked that much either). On this album he’s so over-the-top that I can’t enjoy it in any way. If you’re a fan of his other work, then listen. Everybody else should probably stay away (or track down the first SDRE album at a used store). Letter Grade: C-

Bert Jansch: The Black Swan (Drag City) – Bert Jansch is a huge figure in the British folk scene. He’s an absolutely stunning acoustic guitar player (just ask Neil Young). I’ve got several Pentangle records and one compilation of his solo material. Yo La Tengo recently recorded a cover of my favorite Jansch tune, “Needle of Death.” They did a great job with it, but you should definitely track down the original. Beth Orton and Devendra Banhart join him on this set of newly recorded material. Haven’t heard this one yet, but the British press is saying its his best album in years. Download “The Black Swan” See him Thursday 10/19 at the Arthurnights fest.

The Little Ones: Sing Song EP (Astralwerks) – I’m usually not a hype machine, but I just searched my blog and realized I’ve written about these guys 16 times since February. Their music is super-infectious indie pop. A lot of you probably already have the self-released version of this EP and won’t need to pick up this new Astralwerks version. Download “Lovers Who Uncover” See them Thursday 10/19 at Hollywood and Highland at 8:00PM Letter Grade: A

Also Released:
Imitation Electric Piano: Blow It Up Burn It Down Kick It ‘Til It Bleeds (Drag City) – From Myspace: “was formed in 1999 by Stereolab bassist Simon Johns and Andrew Blake (Felt, Mexico 70).”
Klaxons: Xan Valleys EP (Modular) – Download “Atlantis to Interzone
Love: Definitive Rock (Rhino) – You probably already know this blog is named after a Love song. This is a compilation presumably released to capitalize on Arthur Lee’s death. Any opportunity to expose new people to Love is alright by me. The other greatest hits package was in dire need of remastering – so this is probably worth picking up if you’re new to the band. You really should own Forever Changes in its entirety.
The Muppets: A Green and Red Christmas (Disney) – I own the Muppets soundtracks on vinyl and listen to them from time to time. The first time I took my lady and I went out on a date was to see a Jim Henson cover band.
The Sadies: Tales of the Ratfink s/t (Yep Roc) – Soundtrack to the documentary about hot rod and custom car designer, Ed “Big Daddy” Roth.
Shiny Toy Guns: We Are Pilots (Universal) – Local indie/electronica band.
Ali Smith / Steve Almaas: You Showed Me (Parasol) – Download “You Showed Me
Squarepusher: Hello Everything (Warp)
Various Artists: Weeds s/t (Lion’s Gate Records) – This one’s got local artists like the 88, Dengue Fever, Gwendolyn Sanford and Brandon Young Jay as well as indie faves Sufjan Stevens, Of Montreal and Rogue Wave.

Monday, October 16, 2006

Earlimart MP3s

Earlimart is one of LA's better bands that I haven't written much about on this site. In the year I've been writing, they haven't been that active (they did recently release a 7" on Suicide Squeeze). I've heard rumours about who would be releasing their next record (one label even seemed to quietly announce their signing) but apparently they're still deciding what to do with it. When you listen to their albums, you hear a clear progression in Aaron Espinoza's talent as a songwriter and artist. Pitchfork is in the process of releasing three new MP3s. These downloads are courtesy of Pitchfork:

"Never Mind the Phonecalls"
"Don't Think About Me"

Those should whet your appetite for the new record. Aaron Espinoza will be playing a free solo show at the Silverlake Lounge on Monday 10/23. The following week the band is heading to New York for the CMJ festival.

Monday Night Picks - 10/16/06

Tonight's Pick:
Meeting Places / Eskimohunter @ Silverlake Lounge (Free) – They were Spin.com’s band of the day last Monday. If you’re into atmospheric, shoegazey rock then check them out. They’re playing the Silverlake Lounge every Monday in October. You’ve probably seen guitarist Scott McDonald at your band’s show (I see him out almost every time I go out). Download The Meeting Places’ “Love Like the Movies

Also Appearing:
The Hold Steady @ Troubadour (Sold Out) – Indie favorites? Heavy drinking bar band? Bruce Springsteen disciples? All of the above.
Rocket / Catfish Haven / Earl Greyhound @ Spaceland (Free) – Rocket are Catfish Haven’s on Secretly Canadian records and Pitchfork gave their recently released record a 7.6/10. Download Catfish Haven’s “Crazy for Leaving” – I thought Head Like a Kite was playing this show too but apparently you’ll have to see them tomorrow at Cinespace instead.
Winter Flowers / Chapin Sisters (Free)

Friday, October 13, 2006

Sunday's Picks 10/15/06

Head Like a Kite Rock Play Sea Level on Sunday
Sunday's Pick:
Head Like a Kite @ Sea Level 4:00PM (Free) - These guys sent me their record and I like it. That's always a bonus. They're obviously getting some good advice, because they're hitting the buzz spots. Sunday at Sea Level. Monday at Spaceland, Tuesday on KXLU then at Cinespace. Brian Deck produced their album. Not sure what the live show's like, here's what it says on Myspace: "Live, HEAD LIKE A KITE includes TRENT MOORMAN on drums, keys, and sampler. Video Projectionists TONY NELSON or MARLON SCHAEFFER join the tours and edit live film clips projected behind the band." Magnet's probably a better hype machine than me, so here's what they say: "Sonic Youth guitar treatments upon Stereolab keyboards on top of Primal Scream-style vocal loops....a well-edited scrapbook of retro-futurism."
Download "Noisy at the Circus" (Smoosh isn't touring with them, so this might not be the best track to give you).
Also appearing:
Clap Your Hands Say Yeah / Takka Takka / Architecture in Helsinki @ the Fonda (Sold out)
The Section Quartet performs Radiohead’s OK Computer @ Spaceland ($10) - Do you like Radiohead? Do you like strings?

Saturday Night = Blogger's Nightmare

Cup Your Hands and Eat Ice Cream

Saturday night's like a blogger's wet dream. But where to go? I'll probably stay home and watch horror movies.

Tonight's Pick
Clap Your Hands Say Yeah / Takka Takka / Architecture in Helsinki @ the Fonda (Sold Out) – Do you like bands that are heavily influenced by the Talking Heads? Me too (some of ‘em anyway). I really like their album, but then had the misfortune of seeing them live. After looking at the lead singer’s back (and not hearing him enunciate anything) for an hour at their show at El Rey a while back, I probably won’t be seeing them again for awhile. Let me know if I should re-evaluate. Download CYHSY’s “Upon This Tidal Wave of Young Love
Download Takka Takka’s “We Feel Safer at Night

Also appearing:
Thunderbirds are Now! @ Spaceland ($10) – Do you like dancey, post-punk? Then you’ll probably like these guys.
Lily Allen @ Troubadour (Sold Out) – Do you like lite-reggae pop? Me neither, but most bloggers seem to. It helped me realize that a lot of bloggers are just horny dudes. That said, if I owned a record label I would immediately find an American version of this chick. You would bank some serious dough and she seems like she’s probably a really pleasant person to be around. People on Craigslist are willing to pay $150 for your ticket. I’d sell.
Ghostland Observatory / Bodies of Water / Restaurant @ the Echo ($10) – Do you like indie disco? Me neither, but many bloggers seem to.

Friday Night Live Music Picks 10/13/06

The Clean Prophets Play Amoeba at 7:00PM Tonight

Tonight's Pick:

The Clean Prophets @ Amoeba (Free) – After a flurry of recent local signings and several of our bands getting national attention, hopefully the Clean Prophets are next. I’ve posted that Tesh video before, but it’s worth another look. In the past I’ve compared them to Echo & the Bunnymen and the Chameleons with some Cure in there as well. While they’ve probably listened to their share of 1980’s British music, they’re not genre copycats in any way. One look at their press clippings and you'll see bands I don't hear at all. Download “Crime

The 88 @ the Getty (Free) – Local pop guys that are out on the road so much, you don’t get as many chances to see them.

Seneca Hawk / The Letter Openers @ Spaceland
Mika Miko @ the Smell ($5) – Local KRS girls.
Lucero / Rocky Votolato / William Elliott Whitmore @ Troubadour (Sold Out) – One of my really good friends is a big Lucero fan. If you like barroom, alt-country then you will be too. Download Votolato’s “Portland is Leaving
Circus Minor / The Oohlas @ the Echo ($5) –
The Bird and the Bee @ Silverlake Lounge ($10) – Inara George & Greg Kurstin
Kristen Hirsh @ El Cid ($17.50)
Electric Six @ Key Club ($15)

Thursday, October 12, 2006

Things That Might Sell Out

Here's a list of shows that might sell out. I'd consider making plans now.

10/20 – Boris / Be Your Own Pet @ Downtown Palace ($24) - BUY
10/22 – Lou Barlow @ Spaceland ($12) - BUY
10/22 – Comets on Fire / Fiery Furnaces @ Downtown Palace ($24) - BUY
10/23 – Yo La Tengo @ Fonda ($20) - BUY
10/23 – Secret Machines @ Avalon ($20) - BUY
10/24 – Bonnie “Prince” Billy @ the Smell – Really? The Smell?
10/28 – The Sword @ Avalon ($15) - BUY
11/1 – Voxtrot @ Troubadour ($10) - BUY
11/6 – Modest Mouse @ Wiltern ($30) – On Sale Saturday @ 10AM
11/9 – Telescopes @ Silverlake Lounge ($12) - BUY
11/10 – The Wrens / Asobi Seksu @ Troubadour ($13) - BUY
11/17 – Frank Black @ House of Blues - BUY
11/18 - Sean Lennon @ El Rey ($25) - BUY
11/18 – Hot Chip @ the Fonda ($18) - BUY
11/22 – Pernice Brothers / Elvis Perkins @ Spaceland ($10) - BUY
11/24 – Mark Fosson @ El Cid - BUY
11/25 – Cat Power @ Orpheum ($27.50) - BUY
11/28 – Takka Takka @ Silverlake Lounge
11/30 – Joanna Newsom @ El Rey ($20) - BUY
1/13/07 – Girl Talk @ the Echo ($10) - BUY

Thursday Night Music Picks 10/12/06



Oakley Hall Plays Spaceland Tonight

Another one of those nights in LA where there's four or five enticing live events.

Tonight's Picks:

Oakley Hall / The Long Winters / What Made Milwaukee Famous @ Spaceland ($12) – Flavorpill thinks you should check this out. Oakely Hall was started by the former guitarist of Oneida. They’re from Brooklyn and get called “psych-country” and also get the occasional Fleetwood Mac comparison. They’ve got a good reputation as a strong live act. Download “Living in Sin in the USA” The Long Winters are on Barsuk and they’re from Seattle. I’ve owned two of their albums and must confess that I don’t understand their appeal. Download The Long Winters’ “Pushover” What Made Milwaukee Famous is an indie pop band from Austin, TX and they’re label mates of The Long Winters on Barsuk. They’re playing Morning Becomes Eclectic today. Download “I Decide

The Broken West (fka the Brokedown) @ the Echo ($5) – The Brokedown had to change their name to the Broken West. Sucks for them, but at least their new album on Merge isn’t out yet (it comes out in January). Check out their Myspace page for a preview of tracks from their new album. They sound really good. They’re heading to New York early next month to play the Merge showcase at CMJ.

Also appearing:

Subtle @ Knitting Factory ($15) – For the Anticon Records crowd. From the KFLA’s site: “Combining the robotic clunk of Jel's programming and drum-machine playing with a rich and textured instrumental bank of cellos, woodwind, live drums, synths and other anomalous tone-generators, Subtle create space-pop akin to that of Tortoise, but with a dynamic approach to song-writing that is becoming synonymous with the Anticon imprint.”

Jedi Mind Tricks @ Troubadour ($22)
Two Sheds @ Silverlake Lounge ($8) – Joe at Radio Free Silver Lake loves this band and has an interview HERE. He compares them to Cat Power, Mazzy Star and PJ Harvey.
The Feeling / Rocco DeLuca @ Key Club ($14) - Craving a Kiefer Sutherland sighting?

Wednesday, October 11, 2006

Top Five New Releases (From 10/10/06)


There's a lot of hatred for that new Killers' record, but given the choice, wouldn't you much rather listen to that than Evanescence?

None of this stuff has me running out to the store, but I'm sure some of it is worth your hard earned cash.

Top Five New Releases:
Califone: Roots and Crowns (Thrill Jockey) – Pitchfork wet themselves and gave it an 8.7/10. Very mellow. Download “Spider’s House
Cold War Kids: Robbers and Cowards (Downtown) – Local indie rockers are now signed to Downtown Recordings. At Spaceland tonight. Download “Tell Me in the Morning
Micah P. Hinson: Micah P. Hinson and the Opera Circuit (Jade Tree) – At Spaceland on 10/26. Download “Jackeyed
Damien Jurado: And Now That I’m In Your Shadow (Secretly Canadian) – He’s really mellow too. I liked his last record. At the Hotel CafĂ© on 10/19. Download “What Were the Chances
Robert Pollard: Normal Happiness (Merge) – I’m a little sick of this guy, but I do like some of the GBV albums quite a bit. Be sure to buy your copy at an indie record store so you’ll get the free live CD as a bonus. Download “Supernatural Car Lover

Also Released:
120 Days: 120 Days (Vice) – At Spaceland on 11/13. Download “Come Out, Come Down, Fade Out, Be Gone
The Be Good Tanyas: Hello Love (Nettwerk) –At El Rey on 10/24.
The Blood Brothers: Young Machetes (V2) – At the Fonda on 11/30 and 12/1.
Chavez: Better Days Will Haunt You (Matador) – Remastered reissue. Download “You Faded
Chin Up Chin Up: This Harness Can’t Ride Anything (Suicide Squeeze) – They’ve gotten good reviews from Pitchfork too. At Safari Sam’s on 10/24. Download “This Harness Can’t Ride Anything
Four Tet: Remixes (Domino) – He remixes Radiohead, Bloc Party, etc and then artists remix him.
The Gothic Archies: The Tragic Treasury: Songs From a Series of Unfortunate Events (Nonesuch) – Stephen Merritt of the Magnetic Fields does Lemony Snicket songs.
Great Speckled Bird: Great Speckled Bird (Collector’s Choice) – Country-rock reissue from 1970. Ian and Sylvia with Todd Rundgren producing.
The New Sound of Numbers: Liberty Seeds (Cloud Recordings)
Andy Partridge: Fuzzy Warbles Collector’s Box Set (Ape) – 9 Discs from the XTC dude
Oxford Collapse: Remember the Night Parties (Sub Pop) – This free download sounds pretty good. Anybody heard the whole record? Indie rock. At the Knitting Factory on 10/22. Download “Please Visit Our National Parks
Pit Er Pat: Pyramids (Thrill Jockey) – At Spaceland on 11/21. Download “Solstice
Portastatic: Be Still Please (Merge) – Mac from Superchunk (and founder of Merge)
Nikki Sudden: The Truth Doesn’t Matter (Secretly Canadian) – From Swell Maps. His last album. Download “Seven Miles
These Arms Are Snakes: Easter (Jade Tree) – At the Knitting Factory tonight. Download “Horse Girl
Various Artists: Marie Antoinette soundtrack (Verve Forecast) – A period film with music from Gang of Four, the Strokes, Adam Ant, Bow Wow Wow, etc.
Various Artists: I Killed the Monster 21 Artists Performing the Songs of Daniel Johnston (Second Shimmy) – There’s already an excellent DJ tribute album. I’d like to hear the Sufjan Stevens’ track at some point.
Whitey: Light at the End of the Tunnel Is a Train (Dim Mak) – Playing a free show on 10/19 at Hollywood and Highland. Download “Walk in the Dark

Wednesday Night Live Picks - 10/11/06


Tonight's Pick:
Merle Haggard @ Royce Hall ($38-65) – Merle Haggard is a legend. He competes alongside George Jones, Hank Williams and Johnny Cash for my favorite male country artist of all time. I’ve seen him perform once (at Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace) and it exceeded all expectations. He didn’t resort to medleys or anything cheesy like that. He played a lot of classics and seems to know why people love him (which seems to elude a lot of older artists). I really wish he was playing somewhere other than Royce Hall because all those songs about drinking really make you wish you had a drink. Some favorite songs: “Mama Tried,” “Swinging Doors,” “The Bottle Let Me Down,” “I Take a Lot of Pride in What I Am,” “I Think I’ll Just Stay Here and Drink.” He’s also playing the San Manuel Casino tomorrow night.

Also Playing:
Cold War Kids / The Delta Spirit @ Spaceland ($10) – Should be packed. Cold War Kids are celebrating their album release (out yesterday on Downtown records – home of Gnarls Barkley and Art Brut). They’ve got great, loyal fans and they definitely deserve a wider audience. They’re in the process of going from a local band to a national band, so go see them at Spaceland while you still can. Before you dismiss them, see them live at least once. Download “Hospital Beds
Jesse Sykes / The Shore @ Silverlake Lounge ($10)
Kasabian / Mew @ Fonda (Sold Out) – I saw part of Kasabian’s set at Coachella once. They seemed tight and more interesting than their records. Mew’s album is pretty good. Should be a decent show.
The National @ Troubadour ($14)

Tuesday, October 10, 2006

Tonight's Music Options Tues 10/10/06

Not much time today. Here's what you already know:

Tuesday 10/10/06
Bobby Bare Jr. / Merle Jagger @ Spaceland ($8)
Oh No! Oh My! @ Cinespace ($5)
Mickey Champion @ Little Pedro’s
Dresden Dolls @ Orpheum

Monday, October 09, 2006

Tonight's Picks - Monday 10/9/06

Funny - usually I don't trust guys in sideways baseball hats.
Tonight's Pick:
Sufjan Stevens / My Brightest Diamond @ Wiltern (Sold Out) - I blew it man. Sufjan's record was my album of the year last year. This show sold out so fast I didn't get tickets. Requests for guest list spots were not fulfilled. Send me an email if you've got extras. I saw him at the Bottleneck in Lawrence, KS last year and he was just as charming and talented as you'd expect.
Also playing:
Meeting Places / Antarcticans @ Silverlake Lounge (Free) – The Meeting Places are playing every Monday in October for free. They're kinda dreamy, kinda shoegazey.
Rocket @ Spaceland (Free) – Rocket are playing every Monday in October for free. As their label puts it: girls in short shorts with guitars.
Winter Flowers / Lavender Diamond / Darren Rademacher (of the Tyde) @ the Echo (Free) – Winter Flowers are playing every Monday in October for free.
The National @ Troubadour ($14) – Their most recent album was Uncut Magazine’s album of the month (five stars).
Jerry Lee Lewis @ Virgin Megastore Hollywood & Highland (Free) 7:00PM – He’s getting up there in years. I saw him on Letterman last week with Neil Young on guitar.
The Oohlas / Dirty Little Secret @ Viper Room

Friday, October 06, 2006

Sunday Night Picks 10/08/06

I'm not that familiar with any of these bands, so here's a quick post.


Califone / The Heavenly States @ Spaceland ($10)

Roger Waters performs Dark Side of the Moon @ Hollywood Bowl
The Album Leaf @ Troubadour – Jimmy LaValle from Tristeza. Download “Always for You
Part Time Punks @ the Echo – Smiths Night ($5) The Capricorns @ Sea Level (Free) 4:00PM

Saturday Night Picks 10/7/06


Saturday's Pick:
Eagle Rock Music Festival (Free) – On Colorado in Eagle Rock. - The Movies (8:00PM), The Parson Red Heads (6:00PM), Future Pigeon (8:00PM), Kind Hearts & Coronets (10:00PM), Great Northern (9:30PM), Monsters Are Waiting (10:30PM) - Here’s another chance to pay a lot of money and see Beck or to go see the Movies for free. Hooray for the Movies. I really enjoyed the Parson Red Heads when I saw them too. Unfortunately Future Pigeon and the Movies are at the same time.

Also Happening:
LA Weekly Detour Festival @ Downtown (Main St. & 1st) ($35.50) – Beck, Blonde Redhead, Oh No! Oh My!, Blackalicious, Queens of the Stone Age, Basement Jaxx, Redd Kross – I would really like to see Blonde Redhead.

James McMurtry @ Safari Sam’s ($15) – His dad has written some great stuff.
Patrick Park @ Hotel CafĂ© – Very good guitarist and songwriter.
SunnO)) / Celtic Frost @ House of Blues ($35) – For the serious metal freaks.

Friday Night Music Picks 10/6/06

Asobi Seksu plays the Echo Tonight
Tonight's Pick:
Asobi Seksu / Darker My Love @ the Echo ($8) – If dreamy, shoegazer music with pop elements is your thing, then you’ll dig Asobi Seksu. Download “New Years” Darker My Love is a powerful live band. Their album doesn’t quite capture their live sound.
Also Appearing:
Magnolia Electric Company @ Knitting Factory ($13) - I like their records pretty well. Might be a little mellow.
Roger Waters performs Dark Side of the Moon @ Hollywood Bowl - $210 tickets are still available. Does anybody think maybe they’re charging too much? I mean, shouldn’t this have sold out without a problem.
The Oohlas / West Indian Girl @ Molly Malone’s ($6)
The Killers @ Wiltern (Sold out) – Most of the people bashing them now were probably fans when their last album came out.
Adult @ Troubadour ($15)
Country Joe McDonald @ McCabe’s ($16) – Psychedelic folk-rock legend. He was at Woodstock and testified at the Chicago Seven trial along with Allen Ginsberg, Timothy Leary, Arlo Guthrie, Phil Ochs, Judy Collins and Pete Seeger.
The Bird & the Bee @ Silverlake Lounge ($10) – Greg Kurstin and Inara George
Riverboat Gamblers @ Alex's Bar ($10) - For those in Long Beach..

Battle of the Record Sleeves

Have you guys seen this battle of the record sleeves? It's pretty cool if you spend a lot of time digging through crates.

Watch it HERE.

Thursday, October 05, 2006

Thursday Night Concert Picks 10/5/06


Numerous good reasons to go out tonight. Whether you're on the east side, downtown, in Hollywood or on the Strip.

Tonight's Pick
Riverboat Gamblers @ Key Club ($12) - Punk rock from Denton, TX. The lead singer of the Riverboat Gamblers is a great front man. He's all over the place and may even get in your face. I saw them a few times when I lived in Texas and they always put on a fantastic show. Spin Magazine recently named them the 15th best live band in the world ahead of two of my favorites: the Flaming Lips and My Morning Jacket. You won't ever understand the band until you see them live. They're also playing Alex's Bar in Long Beach tomorrow night. If you're like me and you haven't seen a good show in a while, this might be the remedy.

Also appearing:
Roger Waters performs Dark Side of the Moon @ Hollywood Bowl ($36-260) - You can still get $260 tickets. It better be a pretty damn good show for $260. I mean really, really good. Like way better than any show in the world. I mean I like Pink Floyd and all, but $260 is a helluva lot of money. Also on Friday and Sunday.

Man Man / Tsk Tsk / Wires on Fire @ Spaceland ($10) - Don't know much about Man Man, but a lot of music snobs seem to dig them. They're on the experimental side of indie music.

The Minor Canon /Briertone @ Little Pedro’s ($5) – The Rock Insider blog presents this night of local favorites. Going downtown is always a nice change of pace. If you haven't been to Little Pedro's it's a cool spot to check out a show.

Tigers Can Bite You / Airborne Toxic Event / Land of Ill Earthquakes @ the Echo ($5) – Somebody’s been reading their Don Delillo. I still haven't seen Dave Woody's (Fiver) new band, Tigers Can Bite You. I'm hearing good things. This night is presented by Sea Level Records and LA Alternative.

Jet @ Henry Fonda (Sold Out) - I'm sure you guys saw the Pitchfork review this week. It almost makes me wanna like Jet. Almost. They're laughing all the way to the bank.

Wednesday, October 04, 2006

MP3 Shuffle 10/4/06

Here’s another edition of Duke’s MP3 shuffle (the first 10 tracks that pop up when I hit shuffle).

1) Hank Williams “Fool About You” – My dad used to torture me in the car with Hank Williams when I was kid. Now I willingly listen to Hank and enjoy it. The Hank Williams 40 greatest hits collection is enough for most people, but there are gems not included on that collection. This is from the Original Singles Collection which has 84 songs. His Luke the Drifter persona is interesting too.
2) Muse “Endlessly” – Radiohead impersonators? A band I occasionally enjoy, but rarely defend.
3) The Flaming Lips “Guy Who Got a Headache and Accidentally Saves the World” – From Clouds Taste Metallic – a strong record. Remember when nobody in LA liked the Flaming Lips and you found these used for $4.99 or less? Now I wish they’d do more of these songs when they play live.
4) Sonic Youth – “Chapel Hill” – This takes me back to college. A song about getting Jesse Helms in the mosh pit. He’s in a convalescent home now, so he’s not much of a threat anymore.
5) Elliott Smith – “Shooting Star” – This is a nasty fuck you song to a scene whore. I wonder if he had anybody specific in mind when he wrote it.
6) Fugazi – “Glue Man” – An interesting transition. From a song by a drug casualty to an anti-drug song from a straight edge band. One of my favorite bands in college.
7) Sufjan Stevens – “Adlai Stevenson” – Another song about a politician. Stevenson was an Illinois Governor who ran for President (and was called an “egghead” by Nixon). Substantially different politics than Jesse Helms…..
8) Buzzcocks – “E.S.P.” – For me you really only need Singles Going Steady. But you definitely do need Singles Going Steady. It’s hard for me to listen to the Sex Pistols or the Clash these days, but not the Buzzcocks.
9) Neutral Milk Hotel “Two-Headed Boy (live 2/4/01)” – I never saw Neutral Milk Hotel live, and these bootlegs make me regret it. I’m a big In the Aeroplane Over the Sea fan and this is one of the best songs on that album.
10) Gene Clark “The Same One” – This one’s from right after he left the Byrds. A sad song about relationship confusion. Possibly about Michelle Phillips? or so the All Music Guide says. I don't always love Gene's performances, but his songs are really interesting.

Wednesday Night Music 10/4/06

Fields Play the Troubadour Tonight
Fields / The Dears @ Troubadour (Sold Out) – The online tracks from Fields sound really good. They’re British and only in the States for three shows (NYC, LA, SF). The Dears have never interested me, but then again, I’ve never really listened to them.
Also playing:
The Shore / Asteroid #4 / Boxing Lesson @ Silverlake Lounge ($8) – LA's the Shore plays every Wednesday in October at the Silverlake Lounge. Tonight you can see them with the bands that headlined Spaceland and the Echo last night.
The Shys / The Mess Hall @ Spaceland ($8) - Club NME night with a local band and an Australian band.
Billy Bragg @ the Fonda ($25) – I’ve got to confess that the only Bragg albums I own are the ones with Wilco.

David Cross = Smarty Pants

Here's that footage of David Cross being a smartass.

Tuesday, October 03, 2006

Top Five New Releases 10/03/06


Beck: The Information (Interscope) – Yeah, I just ripped on his live show at Club Element, but I still wanna hear this (I’m listening to the stream on AOL right now). I’m sure a lot of you have already heard it. What do you think? It was produced by Nigel Godrich and they started the record before Guero (but then Godrich got busy with Paul McCartney). Catch him live at the Detour Music Fest on 10/7. This album currently has a 79 on Metacritic. Last album sold 809k. Not sure if this has a vinyl release date. Grade: ?

The Decemberists: The Crane Wife (Capitol) – I’ve always considered myself a Decemberists fan although I usually only like three or four tracks on each record. This album feels a lot more consistent. Colin Meloy still has a voice that’s going to annoy most people immediately. Apparently the lyrics are loosely based on a Japanese folk tale. Appearing at the Wiltern on 10/21. This album currently has a 92 on Metacritic. The Last album sold 121k. Looks like the vinyl doesn’t come out until 10/17. Grade: B+

The Luxury Liners: Nonetheless (self-released) – One of the guys in this Nashville-based band is a friend of mine. He hasn’t sent me a copy of this yet, so I don’t know what to tell you about it. Supposedly it’s a bit of departure from their previous power-pop albums and features more introspective songs. Download “Breaking Out” Grade: ?

Sean Lennon: Friendly Fire (Capitol) – I’m just as suspicious as you are of a guy who chooses to hang out with Vincent Gallo and the rest of the New York City social scene. Apparently this album is about his rocky relationship with Bijou Phillips (who once flashed her bare ass at me at a party). A big improvement over his last album, the record features interesting arrangements, good performances and really strong production. He’s still got the same voice (at times it’s a struggle to sing in key) which has grown on me. You might be annoyed when he sings about saving the cocaine and diamonds for a rainy day. Is it worth $22.99 (it comes with a DVD)? You’ll have to decide for yourself. His last album sold 62k. Grade: B-

The Pernice Brothers: Live a Little (Ashmont) – I really love Joe Pernice’s lyrics. Of course I’m totally wrong, because Marc Hogan at Pitchfork had this to say about the lyrics on his last album:

"When it comes to words he's typically received more praise than deserved, maybe because he's got an MFA (whoopedy-doo!). Pernice too often traffics in turgid phrases rather than complete thoughts, epitomized in the omg wtf chorus of "My So-Called Celibate Life": "It's a short slide down/ No caution navigating the faulted ground." That's not pop, dude. That's poor."

On behalf of Joe Pernice, I'd like to extend a big middle finger to Marc Hogan. In a perfect world Joe Pernice would have as much money as Sean Lennon to work with some kickass producers and musicians. Unfortunately he doesn’t seem to have the disposable income to spend a lot in the studio (or to go out and do coke with Bijou Phillips – a lot his money probably goes for diapers for his baby). Anyway, I’m straying really badly. Just buy the record. All the Pernice Brothers records are good. I do wish they’d do a vinyl release. See him live at Spaceland on November 22nd. Grade: B+

Also released:
Cities: Variations (Yep Roc) – Reimagined by Daedelus, Ladytron, Fog
The Dears: Gang of Losers (Arts & Crafts) – Live at the Troubadour on 10/4.
The DFA Remixes: Chapter Two (Astrawerks) – Hot Chip, Nine Inch Nails, N.E.R.D., Goldfrapp, Unkle, etc.
Goldenboy: Underneath the Radar (Eenie Meenie) – Support local music.Download “Second Day of the Year
Robyn Hitchcock & the Venus 3: Ole Tarantula (Yep Roc) – At the Key Club on 10/27
The Hold Steady: Boys and Girls in America (Vagrant) - Usually I understand why bands are critical darlings even when I don't like them. These guys are the exception. No offense, but what am I missing here? At the Troubadour on 10/16.
Home Video: No Certain Night or Morning (Defend Music) – Download “Penguin” Live at the Getty on 10/20.
Jet: Shine On (Atlantic) – Last album sold 1,585k. Live at the Fonda on 10/5.
The Killers: Sam’s Town (Island) – Last album sold 2,993k. Live at the Wiltern on 10/6 and 10/7.
The Kooks: Inside In/ Inside Out (Astralwerks) – This month’s version of the Arctic Monkeys. Not that I have anything against either band. See them at Safari Sam’s on 10/24 or Spaceland on 10/25.
Nina Nastasia: On Leaving (Fat Cat)
Pere Ubu: Why I Hate Women (Smog Veil) – Live at Royce Hall on 10/29.
The Slats: Boom Patrol (Latest Flame Records)
Subtle: For hero for fool (Astralwerks) – At the Knitting Factory on 10/12.
Thunderbirds are Now: Make History (French Kiss) – At Spaceland on 10/14.
Tokyo Police Club: A Lesson In Crime (Paper Bag) – At the Echo on 11/12.
Various Artists: Air’s Late Night Tales (Thrive) – It always bugs me a little when people misspell Elliott Smith’s name (like the track listing on Amazon).
Various Artists: Adult Swim and Stones Throw Present Chrome Children (Stones Throw)