Weekend Live Music Options 9/29/07 - 9/30/07

Yo La Tengo Play the Hollywood Bowl on Saturday Night

Saturday 9/29/07:

Art Opening: Mel Kadel, Travis Millard, Michael Sieben, Mike Aho @ Lab 101 Gallery [8530-B Washington Blvd, Culver City] – 7:00PM - 10:00PM

Swerve Festival: Illinois / Snowden / Foreign Born / The Black Angels @ Barnsdall Park (Free with registration) – Early show – 2:00PM to 7:00PM. Solid Indie lineup and it’s free.

Bright Eyes / Yo La Tengo / M. Ward @ Hollywood Bowl ($20-$75) – Pool seats are available at the moment. Those are great seats. I’ve seen Bright Eyes. The warbly voice is a little too much. Yo La Tengo were one of my favorite bands in the mid-90s. I saw them put on some great shows. That last couple of times haven’t been quite as energetic. M. Ward’s a great guitar player. I haven’t dipped into his recorded material much, but he’s talented.

Low @ Troubadour ($18) – Night two of two.

Nudist Priest @ the Echo ($10) – This is the farewell performance of the nude Judas Priest cover band.

The High Society / The Good Listeners / Miranda Lee Richards @ Bordello ($10) – Southern boogie rock.

Brimstone Howl / Beat the Devil @ Spaceland – Brimstone Howl’s a garagey, bluesy, punky band out of Nebraska.

Swerve Festival: Bonde do Role @ Echoplex (free with registration) – Indie dance crowd party hosted by DJ Franki Chan.

Neighborhood Music Festival: Spank Rock / The Faint / Chromeo / Flosstradamus / Har Mar Superstar / Brother Reade / Crystal Castles / DJ Kid Benihana / Mooky Avalon @ Exposition Park in Downtown LA ($40 pre-sale - $80 VIP)

Nocturnal Fest: Chemical Brothers / Paul Van Dyk / Carl Cox / LTJ Bukem @ 836 Francisco Street ($60) – Sounds like a good excuse to do a bunch of E and dance like a prick (if you’re into that sorta thing).

Henry Clay People / Service Group @ the Scene ($8) – I need to see these Henry Clay People. I missed them last night.

Rendezvous Night of Local Indie Music @ La Casa Blue in Higland Park (Free)

The Section Quartet Perform OK Computer @ Largo

Sunday 9/30/07:

Swerve Fest: Thee More Shallows / Oh No! Oh My! / DeVotchKa @ Barnsdall Park (Free with registration) – Early show 1:00PM – 6:00PM. Another solid indie lineup (and it’s free).

Grande Ole Echo: Mike Stinson & Dave Gleason @ the Echo (Free) – 5:00PM – Some good country action.

Letting Up Despite Great Faults / Hearts of Palm UK @ All Star Lanes in Eagle Rock ($5 includes bowling shoe rental) – The last night of LUDGF’s residency. I like their CD, but haven’t made it out yet.

Anavan @ the Smell ($5)

Hello Menno / Henry Clay People / Goldenboy @ Spaceland (Free) – The last night of Hello Menno’s residency. Another chance to see Henry Clay People.

Abbot Kinney Street Festival: Le Switch (10:00 AM) / Dengue Fever (5:20 PM) @ Venice

Swerve Fest: We Are Scientists @ Echoplex ($5)

Acute with strings / Nik Freitas @ Tangier ($8) – The last night of their residency.

Friday Night Live Music Options 9/28/07

The Broken West put on a really good show at the Echoplex last night. They peppered a couple of covers in, but mostly played songs off their debut full length, I Can't Go On, I'll Go On. I'm sure I'll have to wait, but I'm really looking forward to them getting in the studio and recording their next album. I was hoping to get there in time to see the Parson Red Heads, but unfortunately I missed their set. I've seen Bodies of Water a few times and they're what would happen if you combined the most obnoxious elements of Polyphonic Spree, Fiery Furnaces and Danielson Famile. They had a big crowd though and tons of bloggers (including Pitchfork) love them. A lot of these commentors on Stereogum rip on how shitty LA bands are and say that BoW are one of the only originals. I guess I'm pretty out of step.

Tivo Alert: Earlimart on the Daily Habit on Fuel

Friday's Pick (9/28/07):

The National / St. Vincent @ the Wiltern ($20) – The National is the type of band I should absolutely love, but I still haven’t gotten into them. I think it’s his voice. Seeing them live would probably help.

Also Appearing:

Low @ Troubadour ($18) – I like Low’s albums, but they seem a little too mellow to see live on a weekend night.

Girl Talk / Dan Deacon @ Echoplex ($17) – There’s a 7:00PM (limited tix at the door) and a 10:00PM show (sold out). I saw Girl Talk the last time he plugged his laptop in at the Echo. You might remember me, I was the party pooper standing against the back wall with my arms crossed.

Imperial Teen @ Spaceland ($12) – Upbeat adult pop on Merge.

Josh Rouse / Jason Collett @ El Rey ($19) – Rouse is a mellow, soft rocker with a touch of Americana. I saw him at a Starbucks at SXSW about seven years ago. Jason Collett’s part of the Broken Social Scene family and plays music that’s similar to Rouse.

The Legendary Shack Shakers @ the Roxy ($12) – Rootsy swamp rock’n’rollers from Nashville.

Thee LA Gentleman Callers / 10’ors @ the Scene ($5)

Tickets Going on Sale This Weekend

On Sale Saturday 9/29 @ 10:00AM:

Bruce Springsteen & the E Street Band @ LA Sports Arena on 10/29

M.I.A. / The Cool Kids @ the Wiltern on 11/9

On Sale Saturday 9/30 @ Noon:

Danzig @ Greek Theatre on 10/31 - Mother

On sale Sunday 9/30 @ 10:00 AM:

Yo La Tengo @ Ivar Theatre on 11/2 & 11/3

Highlights from Thursday's Live Music Calendar 9/27/07

The Broken West Play the Echoplex Tonight

After a very long day, I stopped into Spaceland last night for Maps. They were good and quite capable of pulling off their dense recorded material on the live stage. With a five piece touring band, it was their first trip to the States. They looked like regular suburban guys; the lead singer even sported an In'N'Out t-shirt. If you're a fan of dense, shoegazey rock with electronic touches check them out. They've got a couple of shows this weekend in New York....

Tivo Alert: Bjork on Conan

Thursday's Pick:

The Broken West / The Parson Red Heads / Bodies of Water / Henry Clay People @ Echoplex ($10) – All around good guys, The Broken West put out one of my favorite records of the year last January on Merge. After not seeing them for about six months, I was stunned by how much they’ve evolved as a live band since their Spaceland residency earlier this year. They’re heading out on the road again in a couple of weeks, so hopefully my friends in Austin, Madison, Cambridge, Washington DC, Nashville, Chicago and Minneapolis will show these guys some love. The Parson Red Heads are a local band that’s a lot of fun to see live. Bodies of Water have been getting some good national blog love recently.

Well worth the cash:

Ladytron / Great Northern @ Hollywood and Highland (Free but you need to take the bus or train to the show and flash your ticket) – I’ve yet to see a show at the mall at Hollywood and Highland, but you probably should get there early if you want to see these guys. Ladytron probably would rather been playing at the Hollywood Bowl tonight, but the Pet Shop Boys canceled.

Other Options:

Sleeping States @ Bordello ($8) – Electric folk from the UK with a new album out on Misra. Pitchfork gave it a very respectable 7.9/10.

Sam Sparro / Voxhaul Broadcast @ the Echo (Free for 21+ / $5 under 21)

The Headcat (with Lemmy) @ Safari Sam’s ($15)

James Blunt @ Spaceland (Limited tix available at the door) – If you’re a fan, this will probably be the smallest place you’ll ever see this dude again.

Thee LA Gentleman Callers @ Silverlake Lounge ($7)

Princeton @ Hotel Café

Upsilon Acrux @ the Smell

Lez Zeppelin @ El Rey ($19)

A++ / Ing @ Land [366 E. 2nd Street in Little Tokyo] ($3)

Photo from my Sunset Junction Flickr Set

Cat Stevens "If You Want To Sing Out, Sing Out"

Here’s a reminder to tune into Sinking with Sylvia (and Sometimes Todd) on Little Radio Thursday morning from 11AM – 1PM Pacific Standard Time. Tomorrow their guests will be Division Day. Division Day are promoting the release of their album Beartrap Island which comes out October 2nd on Eenie Meenie. DD are also playing a record release party at the Echo on 10/2 with Sylvia and Todd DJ’ing between sets by Eulogies, The Mae Shi and Division Day.

I’m still playing catch-up in writing about my weekly picks on the show. On August 23rd my song pick was Cat Stevens’ “If You Want to Sing Out, Sing Out.” This song comes from one of my favorite films of all time, Harold and Maude. Harold and Maude’s a great film about a younger guy (we’re talking 20) who is morbid and death obsessed and incapable of enjoying life. It takes a much older woman (we’re talking 80) to teach him to embrace and learn to love living. It’s heartfelt, moving and darkly comedic. Hal Ashby’s direction is pretty much perfect and Colin Higgins script probably is perfect. This Cat Stevens’ song completely captures the spirit of the film. There’s another great Cat song in the film called “Don’t Be Shy.” Both tracks are available on the Cat Stevens Box Set.

My first knowledge of Cat Stevens was the controversy over comments he made about Salman Rushdie in the late 1980s. I was a 10,000 Maniacs fan at the time (maybe a little embarrassing now) and they had their cover of “Peace Train” pulled from future pressings of their album. Yusuf Islam (his name since 1977) has since distanced himself to a certain degree from the comments he made and he’s even been to the U.S. to promote his music. Although there have been some noticeable hiccups with Homeland Security.

If you’re new to Cat Steven’s music, I recommend you pick up Tea for the Tillerman. If you own a turntable, you can find multiple copies in the $1 bin at Amoeba or Freakbeat. One of the highlights is “Father and Son” which the Flaming Lips famously ripped off (and subsequently got sued for) on their song “Fight Test.” Some of Cat’s music is a little too hippy dippy for me, but there’s a lot of great stuff in his catalog too.

Watch the video for “If You Want to Sing Out, Sing Out” HERE on Youtube
Watch the trailer for Harold and Maude HERE on Youtube

Wednesday's Live Music Options 9/26/07

!!! Play the Avalon Tonight

Monday night’s show at the Echo was a convention of Eastside indie bands. Bronson said he counted members of 24 different bands. He knows a lot more musicians than I, but I did see members of Silversun Pickups, Radar Bros., The Broken West, Division Day, Le Switch, Dengue Fever, The Little Ones in addition to the four bands who were playing. Timothy James was in good spirits which means that the Movies put on a great, high energy show. The entire front row appeared to be photographers with professional grade equipment (by that I mean detachable lenses). There should be some great photos of James kicking and punching at them. No “Rock in the Slingshot” but they played a lot of their other best songs. The Happy Hollows also put on a high energy show, and converted a lot of new fans.

Wednesday 9/26/07:
Tivo Alert: Bright Eyes on Letterman; The National on Ferguson; Devendra Banhart & Patton Oswalt on Conan

!!! / The Field @ Avalon ($20) – As far as all the indie dance stuff goes, !!! is about as good as it gets. And since chicks really dig !!!, this will probably be a good time. There are way too many bands with field in their name (kind of like wolf). If you're trying to think of a band name, please don't use either of these words. Anyway, The Field apparently plays minimal techo and Pitchfork gave them a 9.0.

Club NME: Maps / Coco B’s / Army Navy @ Spaceland ($10) – Maps is a British guy named James Chapman. Maps was nominated for the Mercury Prize this year. Maps plays pretty good shoegazey, atmospheric music. Maps aren’t the most original band in the world, and their songs aren't super memorable, but they're better than a lot of bands? Maps seems to be influenced by Spiritualized, My Bloody Valentine and Boards of Canada. Maps might appeal to you if you like that sort of thing. Maps probably won’t be playing Spaceland next time they come to the US, so this is a really good opportunity to see them at a small club.

Klaxons / Mystery Jets @ the Fonda ($17.50) – Klaxons won the Mercury Prize this year. They play upbeat guitar rock that you could probably dance to. Their first label dubbed them nu rave probably because they like to cover rave songs. Their songs reference William Burroughs, Aleister Crowley, Thomas Pynchon and Richard Brautigan.

Voxtrot / Sleeping States @ the Glasshouse ($16) – The drive to Pomona ain’t that bad. Here’s a chance to see Voxtrot without Arctic Monkeys.

Bad Brains @ House of Blues ($25) - Punk legends.

Jamie T / Nu-Tra @ Troubadour ($15) - Jamie T was also nominated for the Mercury Prize this year. That's three British sensations in one night. He's young and the British press compares him to Arctic Monkeys and the Streets.

Magic Mirror / Cuchillo / Lion of Panjshir / Electromagnetic @ the Echo ($5)

Buddy / Sara Lov / John Gold @ Bordello ($8) – The last night of Buddy’s residency. If you're into some more American flavored indie rock, this is your best bet.

Upsilon Acrux @ the Scene

Filter’s Revenge of the Sunset Strip: Hello Stranger / Port O’Brien @ the Roxy ($10) – Port O’Brien’s on tour with Rogue Wave.

Sarah Blasko @ Hotel Café – Download “Planet New Year”

Tuesday Night Music Options 9/25/07

An advance heads-up for Tuesday night.....

Screening: Pearl Jam’s Immagine in Cornice (Picture in a Frame) @ Plant 16 in Van Nuys (Buy TIX) – 8:00PM – New performance film.

Tivo Alert: Sea Wolf on Kimmel

Tuesday's Free Pick:

Let’s Independent: Radars to the Sky / Tigers Can Bite You / The Hectors @ Boardner’s (Free) – This is the one year anniversary and the record release party for all the bands. Hear samples of all the bands HERE. It’s always a good time and an excuse to go to one of the only pretty cool bars in Hollywood.

Touring Band Picks:

Midlake / Maria Taylor @ the Fonda ($14) – I saw Midlake at Spaceland a couple of years ago, and it was me, Jason Lee and about ten other people. I wasn’t that into it, but then I heard that song “Roscoe” and always felt like they deserved a second chance.

Arctic Monkeys / Voxtrot @ the Palladium (Sold Out) – I saw Arctic Monkeys at Spaceland a couple of years ago and thought they were fun. I compared the lead singer to Harry Potter. I like Voxtrot more than I probably should. I saw them at the Troubadour a while back and enjoyed it.
Download “Kid Gloves”

Mark Olson / Mike Stinson @ Bordello ($12) – For the country-rock fans. Mark Olson was a founding member of country-rock group, the Jayhawks. He’s no longer married to Victoria Williams. He’s got a new album that Tony Gilkyson played on. Gary Louris of the Jayhawks also appears on three songs.

Other Options:

The Monolators / Mezzanine Owls / Amateurs @ the Echo ($5 w/flyer) – I hear the new Mezzanine Owls stuff is really good. Presented by Rock Insider and LA-Underground.

James Blunt @ El Rey (Sold Out) - No. You're beautiful James Blunt.

Mystery Jets @ Cinespace (do the Dim Mak RSVP thing)

Le Meu Le Purr / OK Stranger / Solare @ Spaceland

Marie Digby @ Hotel Café

Pocahaunted @ The Smell ($5)

Monday Night Music Options 9/24/07

The Besnard Lakes put on a fantastic show at the Troubadour on Friday night. They completely immersed the audience in sound. They’re masters of the loud-soft dynamic. Scott (read his interview with the band HERE) and Jeff were there, and also blown away by the show. The three of us were won over by their performance earlier this year at the Echoplex. Fortunately they were able to play a full set this time around (and as usual, I have no complaints with the Troubadour’s sound). The show reminded me of one of those great Spiritualized or Sigur Ros shows. If you’re into shoegazey, loud-soft dynamics you need to see these guys. The rain seemed to keep people away, but the band was very happy with the turnout and crowd response. It was one of those shows where people rush over to the merch table for albums and autographed posters. All their fans are just stunned that these guys haven’t blown up yet. They ended their set with a nice Southern California classic, Fleetwood Mac’s “You Make Loving Fun.” I have to say, the drummer did a nice Christine McVie.

Monday Night’s Pick (9/24/07):

The Happy Hollows / The Movies / Lo-Fi Sugar / Death To Anders @ the Echo (Free) – The last night of the Happy Hollows residency. Joe at Radio Free Silver Lake has a nice interview with them HERE. The Movies continue to be one of the most popular Eastside bands. I’ve heard good things about Lo-Fi Sugar and Death to Anders. Make sure to buy free birthday drinks for Marcos from the Movies (yesterday) and Todd from Sea Level (today).

Monday’s Other Options:

Gram Rabbit / The Spores @ Spaceland (Free) – This has been the most popular/packed residency of the month. Gram Rabbit play the weird, indescribable electro-desert rock. The Spores are a popular local band that has weird a puppet show. This is one of their last local shows before heading out on a big European tour in early October.

Editors / Ra Ra Riot @ the Wiltern ($20) – Editors get the Echo & the Bunnymen and Interpol comparisons.

The Valley Arena @ Silverlake Lounge (Free)

The Submarines / Emma Burgess / Western States Motel @ Viper Room ($10 or free with RSVP)

Bedroom Walls @ Mr. T’s Bowl (Free) – Romanticore.

The Valley Arena / Spleen United @ Silverlake Lounge (Free)

Martha Wainwright @ Hotel Café (Presale sold out) – Folk.

Del tha Funky Homosapien @ House of Blues ($22.50) – Hip-hop.

Foo Fighters @ Henry Fonda (Sold Out) – You had to buy the new record through Ticketmaster last week.

Secretary Bird / Kelly Demartino @ Bordello ($8)

Weekend Live Music Options 9/22/07-9/23/07

Saturday 9/22/07:

Silver Apples / The Moon Upstairs / Residual Echoes / White Widow @ Spaceland ($8) – The Moon Upstairs list George Harrison first on their Myspace page under influences, and you hear it immediately when you play the first song on their new record. They’re a local, retro-minded band full of really good musicians who you probably see around town all the time. There’s also a big party earlier in the day in Mt. Washington with Darren from the Tyde, Wiskey Biscuit and others playing. The party shuts down in time for people to see this show. Silver Apples are an influential late 1960s band that influenced Spacemen 3 and Suicide. I’m not sure how well I think their records hold up, but they’ve still got a cult following.

Little Radio’s Skinny Dip: 8 Bit / Bedtime for Toys / DJ Jason Mason, Taina, Dan
Mancini @ The Standard Downtown (Free) – Starts at 1:00PM and goes until 7:00PM. Hopefully the weather cooperates.

Simian Mobile Disco / Boys Noize @ Echoplex ($20) – For the indie dance crowd.

Todd Rundgren @ House of Blues Sunset ($27.50)

KCRW Presents: Uptown Underground @ Music Center Plaza (Free) - Public art installation of Slow Dancing, with a DJ set by KCRW host Jason Bentley

Louis XIV / The Softlightes / Quazar and the Bamboozled @ Troubadour ($15) – Pretty good lineup.

Brandon Schott @ Bordello – Record release party with string quartet and choir.

The Dear and Departed @ Avalon

Elvis Perkins @ Largo (Reservations booked up)

Kids In the Hall / Electromagnetic @ Safari Sam’s ($20) – Benefit show. I keep seeing these guys all over town.

Voxhaul Broadcast @ the Scene

Princeton @ Pehrspace

Sunday 9/23/07:

Letting Up Despite Great Faults / Teddy’s Cheer Club @ All Star Lanes in Eagle Rock – I like the Letting Up CD and compared them to Postal Service last week. Then Joe had to put that on his site and make me feel like I should have put more effort into describing their music. You should give them a chance listen though.

Rufus Wainwright plays Judy Garland @ Hollywood Bowl ($17-24)

The Grand Ole Echo: 5 O’Clock Somewhere @ the Echo (Free) – 5:00PM show.

Part Time Punks @ the Echo ($5)

Acute @ Tangier ($8) – Acute continues their residency.

Hello Menno @ Spaceland (Free)

Tonight's Live Music Choices Friday 9/21/07

The Besnard Lakes Play the Troubadour Tonight

So many great bands in LA this week and last night I went to the New Pornographers. I was excited to see them. Even though they sucked the last time I saw them, I blamed it on the fact that Dan Bejar and Neko Case weren’t with them. But Bejar and Case are touring with them this time around. The excitement faded as they began; it sounded like shit. The sound man needs to fix this shitty mix. After a couple of songs it got better, but the bass player’s amp still needed to be turned down. I’m still not engaged. The New Pornographers have put out three great albums but they’re mostly playing stuff from the new one. What’s up with the replacement drummer? Great technique, but he’s rushing a lot of the songs. And what’s up with Carl Newman’s voice. He can’t seem to hit any notes and he forgets to sing directly into the microphone. Oh here’s a song with some upfront guitar work from Todd Fancey. Why’s it so flat? and what’s up with the tone? Doug Martsch sounded way better last Friday. What’s that male keyboard player doing? All he does is drink beer and occasionally pump his fists in the air. Now that you mention it, why’s the female keyboard player holding back so much? Oh yeah, probably because she doesn’t want to step on Neko Case’s vocals. The band completely gelled a few times, most notably on “Mass Romantic.” It made me thing that they’re capable of a great performance, but maybe they just aren’t well rehearsed. I couldn’t quite put my finger on what was off, but it was a boring show (and most of the songs aren’t boring). Dan Bejar came out for a few songs and sounded just like he does on the album. And Neko Case doesn’t miss a note (but looks a little elegantly bored at times). When you pay $25 for a ticket (and $10 for a call bourbon) and you're skipping shows like Arcade Fire, LCD Soundsystem, CYHSY you expect a lot.

Friday's Pick:

The Besnard Lakes / Starvin’ Hungry / The Minor Canon @ Troubadour ($14) – The Besnard Lakes latest album will most likely end up on my top 10 list this year. It’s epic and atmospheric and all around fucking awesome. There’s all kinds of pent up tension (a little like Low’s best stuff) that builds and breaks. Their show at the Echoplex earlier this year was blowing me away until it was cut short (all the way from Montreal, but they were given less than 30 minutes on stage). I’m very excited to see them again. They rock much harder than you expect. Not too familiar with Starvin Hungry but they sound like a messy punk band. One of the guys from Besnard may or may not be in the band. Try to get there at 8:30 for the Minor Canon. They put out one of my favorite local releases this year (but you already knew that).
Download Besnard Lakes’ “And You Lied To Me”

Also Recommended:

Oakley Hall / Whalebones @ Spaceland ($10) – I really like the new Oakley Hall album (out last week on Merge), but I like them even better in a live setting. If you like rock ‘n’ roll with American roots, go see them. They break out the violin, lap steel and banjo but can shred on guitar too. I’m hoping they go on late enough that I can catch some of their set after the Troubadour.

Air / Sondre Lerche / Sea Wolf @ Greek Theatre ($50) – If you go to Ticketmaster right
this second, you can get Pit tickets. Pretty amazing that Sea Wolf’s already playing the Greek Theatre.

Cat Power @ Avalon ($27.50) – You know it’s a busy night in LA when Cat Power can’t sell out the Avalon. Remember that image of her on her first album? Now do a Google image search of her.

The Lucksmiths / Math & Physics Club @ El Cid ($10) – The Lucksmiths are in indie pop band from Australia that I’ve always wanted to check out. Unfortunately tonight will not be the night.

Not for me (at least not tonight):

Diplo / Switch @ the Echoplex ($25) – The producers behind the last two M.I.A. albums. Huge show for the indie dance crowd.

High on Fire / Mono / Panthers @ El Rey ($19) – For fans of heavy music.

The Rentals / Goldenboy @ the Fonda ($20) – I’ve seen them twice in the past year and they’re energetic. There are just too many other options tonight.

Over the Rhine @ Knitting Factory ($18)

Veruca Salt @ Safari Sam’s

Paolo Nutini / Jesca Hoop @ Wiltern ($25) – For the KCRW crowd.

Upcoming On Sale Dates

Now:
Sea Wolf @ Troubadour on 11/29
Busdriver @ Troubadour on 11/30

Friday 9/21 @ 10:00 AM
Silversun Pickups @ Wiltern on 10/20

Friday 9/21 @ Noon
Iron & Wine @ Orpheum on 11/28 (only through Ducat King – Ticketmaster tix go on sale next Friday at 10:00 AM)

Saturday 9/22 @ 10:00 AM
Feist @ Gibson Amphitheatre on 11/12
Band of Horses @ Avalon on 11/24
Sia @ El Rey on 10/24
Andrew Bird @ Orpheum on 12/7 (this guy’s really good live)

Monday 9/24 at 10:00AM
Van Halen @ the Staples on 11/20

Monday 9/24 at 12:00 PM
James Blunt @ Spaceland on 9/27

Recent Announcements:
M.I.A. @ the Wiltern on 11/9

Highlights from Tonight's Live Music Calendar 9/20/07

Tivo Alert: Cold War Kids on Leno – they’re appearing with Jessica Alba – I guess that’s some consolation for the White Stripes tour getting canceled.

Tonight's Pick:

Arcade Fire / LCD Soundsystem / Wild Light @ Hollywood Bowl ($31-$41) – This should be a great show, especially since it’s at the Hollywood Bowl. Arcade Fire played one of my favorite shows of the year at the Greek. If I hadn’t just seen them, and if I was into LCD Soundsystem in any sorta way, I would go. (I don’t like L I’ve never heard of Wild Light, but good for them.

Also Appearing:

The New Pornographers / Lavender Diamond / The Awkward Stage @ Henry Fonda ($20) – I’m going to check them out tonight. I'm excited Neko and Dan are touring with them.

Film School @ Amoeba (Free) – 7:00 PM.

Clap Your Hands Say Yeah / Elvis Perkins @ Troubadour (Sold Out) – Night three of three sold out shows.

O’Death / Rock Plaza Central @ the Echo ($8) – O’Death are a unique band that combines bluegrass, Appalachian, punk, folk and about everything else. Rock Plaza Central are a pretty good indie band with elements of country-rock thrown in.
Download O’Death’s “Down to Rest” and “All the World”

Volcom Tour 2007: Valient Thorr / Riverboat Gamblers / Year Long Disaster @ the Roxy ($14) – If you like your rock ‘n’ roll heavy, then this is your show. All these bands are good at what they do. Riverboat Gamblers are a little more punk, and they put on a particularly energetic live show. Daniel Davies (son of Dave) leads local guys, Year Long Disaster. Their debut album comes out on Volcom on October 9 and features a lot of sleazy metal hooks.

Ike Reilly Assassination @ Spaceland ($8)

The Panderers / The Marvelous Toy @ Silverlake Lounge ($8)

Pink Enemy / Calls After Midnight @ Bordello

Damien Rice @ Greek Theatre ($50) – If you go on TM right this second you can get third row center stage tickets. Multi-platinum singer-songwriter who I actually saw once at the Fonda. I wasn’t impressed, but you might be.

Silversun Pickups Tickets on Sale Now

Crooner Hits the Hi-Hat at Lollapalooza

Local heroes, Silversun Pickups, are playing a headlining show at the Wiltern on October 20th. Believe it or not, it's their first big local headlining show, so show them your support.

The KROQ pre-sale started this morning. If you want tickets, remember that "Well Thought out TWINKLES" is a great song. Got that - TWINKLES. If you'd prefer to wait, you can buy them Friday at 10:00AM.

The Midnight Movies and The Happy Hollows open the show.

Silversun Pickups are nominated for The Breaking Woodie award for the best emerging artist at the MTVu. Check out the full list of nominees and vote for SSPU HERE.

photo courtesy of Solidtodd

Sinking with Sylvia (and Sometimes Todd) Reminder

Don't forget to listen to Sinking with Sylvia (and Sometimes Todd) on Little Radio on Thursday from 11:00AM to 1:00PM PST. This Thursday's guests will be the Deadly Syndrome. They'll be sharing some of their favorite music and chatting with Sylvia and Todd. I also have a weekly pick each Thursday. The plan is to do a little blog on each week's pick, but I'm still behind....

On 8/9, my pick was Lee Hazlewood's "Hey Cowboy" (stream it on this Myspace page). I picked this track as a tribute to Lee who succumbed to cancer five days before. The track comes from his Cowboy in Sweden album which evolved out of a television show Lee wrote and produced after moving to Sweden. I'm not the world's foremost authority on Hazlewood, only becoming familiar with him after Steve Shelley of Sonic Youth reissued a slew of his records in 1999. He was a huge producer who recorded some of Gram Parsons first recordings in the International Submarine Band and helped make Nancy Sinatra a huge star. But he's a huge cult figure because of his own albums. He was a psychedelic cowboy and a unique artist. I just love the playful mood of this whole track. His deep baritone matches so well with Nina Lizell's sweet voice. Unfortunately a lot of these albums have gone out of print again. Keep your eyes peeled and pick them up if you see them (especially any of the records from the late 1960s to mid 1970s).

Read the BBC's obituary
See the All Music Guide entry
Download the Sinking podcast from 8/9/07

New Music Releases 9/18/07

Not as good as last week, but a number of promising releases. Unfortunately I haven't sampled too many of these yet. A few good Christmas box sets too....

Most Interesting New Releases:

Akron/Family: Love Is Simple (Young God) – This was the leadoff review in the Other Music mailer this week, so you know they’ve got music snob cred. You know you’ve been blogging for too long when you realize you’ve recommended seeing them twice, yet have no recollection of it. Damn. Anyway, they’re in the freak-folk family. See them at the Troubadour on 10/12.
Download “Ed Is a Portal” and “Phenomena”

Broken Social Scene Presents Kevin Drew: Spirit If (Arts & Crafts) – Haven’t heard it. Not sure why this one’s considered a solo album? I do like Broken Social Scene, so I’ll pick it up. See him at the Orpheum on 10/30. Feist, Emily Haines, Amy Milan, J. Mascis, Spiral Stairs and Jason Collett all make appearances.

Emmylou Harris: Songbird Box Set (Rhino Records) – She’s got one of my favorite voices. Four CDs and one DVD. Instead of focusing on greatest hits, the first two discs have her favorite songs while the next two discs have obscure or unreleased tracks. This might make a nice Christmas gift for me (unless one of the fine people at Rhino unexpectedly sends me a copy in the mail). Read the press release HERE.

Les Savy Fav: Let’s Stay Friends (Frenchkiss) – These veteran heavyish indie rockers seem like a band I should have paid more attention to in college. Pitchfork gave this an 8.3 and put it in their best new music column.
Download “What Would Wolves Do” and “The Equestrian”

[LOCAL] HEALTH: HEALTH (Lovepump United) – Local band that’s part of the all ages, Smell crowd. Their press release compares them to Liars, Black Dice and Animal Collective which gives you an idea of their experimental nature. See them at the Smell on 11/3.
Download “Triceratops” and “Crimewave” and “Perfect Skin”

Percee P: Perseverance (Stones Throw) – The underground hip-hop fans have been looking forward to this one for a while. Madlib helps out. Aesop Rock makes an appearance. Other Music gives it high praise.

Thurston: Trees Outside the Academy (Ecstatic Peace) – Thurston Moore, the Sonic Youth frontman does the (mostly) acoustic singer-songwriter thing. J. Mascis shows up on some of the tracks. Pitchfork gave this one a 7.9. At the Echoplex on 10/30.

Other Releases:

Acid Mothers Guru Guru: Psychedelic Navigator (Important)

Baron Zen: At the Mall Remixes (Stones Throw) – Baron Zen included Peanut Butter Wolf (Chris Manak) before he started the Stones Throw label. This has remixes from the Stones Throw stable. Check out the record release party on 9/19 at the Roxy.

Bella: No One Will Know (Mint) – West Coast indie pop.

Chamillionaire: Ultimate Victory (Motown)

Crescent: Little Waves (Fat Cat)
Download “Little Waves”

The Donnas: Bitchin’ (Feather Records) – Melodic punk-pop. At the Roxy on 10/27.

Fog: Ditherer (Lex Records) – Alan Sparkhaw, Andrew Bird and Why? Make guest appearances. At Spaceland on 11/9.

Mary Gauthier: Between Daylight and Dark (Lost Highway)

Gravenhurst: The Western Lands (Warp) – AMG says they’re equally inspired by Bert Jansch and My Bloody Valentine.

Green Pajamas: Box of Secrets – Northern Gothic 2 (Hidden Agenda) – Retrospective of the Seattle neo-psych band inspired by LA’s Paisley Underground scene.

His Name Is Alive: Xmmer (Reincarnate) – Ethereal

Jesca Hoop: Kismet (Columbia) – KCRW darling at the Wiltern on 9/21.

Jana Hunter: Carrion (Gnomonsong)

Ben Lee: Ripe (New West) – I’ve been watching his career for over a decade (since the Noise Addict days). This new one is studio polished singer-songwriter material. He’s got sex on the mind and even does a duet with Mandy Moore.

Magnet: The Simple Life (Filter US Recordings) – At the Roxy on 11/14
Download “Lonely No More”

Ministry: The Last Sucker (13th Planet Recordings) – Their last studio album.
Download “Die In a Crash” and “Let’s Go”

Motion City Soundtrack: Even If It Kills Me (Epitaph) – At the Wiltern on 12/4. For the Hot Topic crowd.

Myracle Brah: Can You Hear Myracle Brah (Rainbow Quartz) – Power pop.
Download “This Is Where We Belong”

Plasticines: LP1 (Virigin) – Four French girls play peppy punk.

Polyphonic Spree: Live from Austin, TX (New West) – From their August 2004 appearance on Austin City Limits.

Rogue Wave: Asleep at Heaven’s Gate (Brushfire) – Leaving behind Sub Pop for Jack Johnson’s Brushfire, the Oakland band releases their third album. They seem to be chasing commercialism and putting out more watered down releases each time. See them at Fingerprints in Long Beach on 9/21 or El Rey on 10/11. Also, there’s just something about straight guys and thumb rings…..

Sleeping States: There the Open Spaces (Misra) – At Bordello on 9/27.
Download “Rivers”

Various Artists: Love Is the Song We Sing – San Francisco Nuggets 1965-1970 (Rhino) – Another four disc, 77-track collection that explores the San Francisco scene in great detail. The first two Nuggets box sets are essential. Not sure about this one? I am curious though. While I’m familiar with Country Joe, the Warlocks, Beau Brummels, Grateful Dead, Big Brother and the Holding Company, Jefferson Airplane, Steve Miller Band, Moby Grape, there are lots of obscurities.

Various Artists: You Got Yours – East Bay Garage 1965-1967 (Big Beat) – Maybe an interesting companion piece to the hippie set above.

Eddie Vedder: Into the Wild soundtrack (J Records) – The Pearl Jam frontman does the soundtrack for the new Sean Penn film. It’s mostly mellow, acoustic type songs befitting the subject of the film (a young guy who loses himself in the Alaskan wilderness).

Vells: Integreton (Imputor? Records) – Seattle

Wooden Shjips: Wooden Shjips (Holy Mountain) – Garage drone from San Francisco.
Download “We Ask You to Ride”

DVD:

The Best of the Johnny Cash TV Show (Columbia Legacy) – 66 performance clips on two discs. Includes performances by Johnny Cash, Bob Dylan, Stevie Wonder, Kris Kristofferson, George Jones, Waylon Jennings, Neil Young, Bill Monroe, Loretta Lynn, the Everly Brothers, Conway Twitty, Glen Campbell, Merle Haggard, Carl Perkins and lots more.

Digital:

Division Day: Beartrap Island (Eenie Meenie) - This is available on iTunes. I'll write more about it when the physical version comes out on 10/2.

Highlights from Wednesday's Live Music Calendar 9/19/07

The New Pornographers Play the Fonda Tonight

Another night with some intreresting prospects....

Tivo Alert: Rogue Wave on Conan; LCD Soundsystem on Leno

Wednesday's Pick:

The New Pornographers / Lavender Diamond / Fancey @ Henry Fonda ($20) – You never know who you’re going to get when the New Pornographers come to town. JoshC took some pictures at their Seattle show earlier this week, and I’m happy to report that Neko Case and Dan Bejar are touring with them this time around. Even though their new album isn’t their best, their back catalog, and the fact that the Bejar and Case are touring is enough to get me out for Thursday’s show.
Download The New Pornographers’ “My Rights, Versus Yours” and “Myriad Harbour”

Also Appearing:

Club NME: Softlightes / West Indian Girl @ Spaceland ($8) – This show’s recommended by Bronson at the LA Times and Flavorpill. The Softlightes is Ron Fountenberry’s new band (formerly of Incredible Moses Leroy). Their debut came out earlier this year on Modular. It’s easy on the ears electro-pop that should appeal to Death Cab fans. I’m not too familiar with West Indian Girl but I can see that they have a very photogenic singer. If the bands aren’t enough, there’s a Dewars special on Wednesday night ($3 before midnight / $1 after midnight) to entice you. Spaceland already has the best drink prices around, but that’s ridiculous. I haven’t seen a $1 drink special since living in Austin.

Buddy / Ian Ball (of Gomez) @ Bordello ($8) – I made it down to the Bordello last week for the first time since it changed over from Little Pedro’s. There are still some weird homeless people trying to help you park, but if you go on that side street that looks like it’s closed off, there’s plenty of parking and it’s well-lit. The sound was good, the décor was cool and the bartenders do indeed dress like they’re working in a Bordello. I’ll give it a thumbs up. The drinks are a little on the pricey side though (I think $5 for a Shiner on tap and $8 for a call bourbon). I only managed to catch the end of Buddy’s set, but I heard my favorite song, “Westgate” (right click to download) and saw them rock out at the end. If you like “wimpycore” give him a shot. The lead singer of Gomez is also appearing, so there should be another nice crowd.

Revenge of the Sunset Strip: Peanut Butter Wolf @ the Roxy ($10) – For the hip-hop fans. This is a record release party for Stones Throw’s Baron Zen Remix album. Peanut Butter Wolf’s one of those guys you end up taking for granted when you live in LA.

The Dilettantes @ Safari Sam’s ($7) – Joel Gion was the tambourine player who used to stand front and center at the Brian Jonestown Massacre shows in the mid to late 1990s. This is his new band and they’ve finally turned his microphone on. Their new album is appropriately entitled, 101 Tambourines.

Clap Your Hands Say Yeah / Elvis Perkins @ Troubadour (Sold Out) – Night two of three.

The Health Club @ Crash Mansion – The Crash Mansion is a new downtown venue [1024 S. Grand] that took over the Myron Ballroom Space. It has two stages, 1,400 capacity and five bars. It’s operated by the Bowery Restaurant Group and has a sister club in New York City. Dave Navarro will be appearing there tomorrow and Tommy Lee’s birthday party is there on Oct. 11th. Anybody been down there yet?

Shiloe @ the Scene ($5)

Low End Theory Club: Awol One @ Airliner ($5)

Justin Timberlake @ Staples (Sold Out) – My girlfriend and plenty of friends love JT and for the life of me I do not get it. I’d be happy to see Prince or Jacko, but you’d have to pay me to see JT.

Highlights from Tuesday's Live Music Calendar 9/18/07

Pink Nasty Plays the Silverlake Lounge Tonight

The Echo was a lot of fun last night. Le Switch had their full rocking band and even played a brand new song. Looking around the crowd, I could tell they converted a lot of new fans. The Happy Hollows were as energetic as ever. Bronson compares them to the Yeah Yeah Yeahs and Pixies, which is a good starting point. Unfortunately I didn't stay around for Rademacher. I blame putting in almost 12 hours at work yesterday. I've heard good things, and I will see them one of these days.

Tonight you have three touring bands who, in all honesty, owe much of their popularity to online music hype. Some for better and some for worse…..

Tuesday's Pick:

Pink Nasty / Bolero @ Silverlake Lounge ($8) – The Aquarium Drunkard is presenting this show and he’s got a couple of Pink Nasty downloads on his site. Pink Nasty’s originally from my home state of Kansas and had my favorite Lawrence guitarist on her last tour (but I don’t think he’s on this tour). She also sang and played on that live Bonnie “Prince” Billy album, Summer in the Southeast. Bolero’s one of my favorite new local bands with one of my favorite LA guitarists, Josh Schwartz (also the lead vocalist).
Download Pink Nasty’s “Don’t Ever Change” (courtesy of Pitchfork)

Also Appearing:

Animal Collective / Wizard Prison @ the Fonda (Sold Out) – Their new album got a 9.3/10 on Pitchfork., the one before it got a 9.0/10 the one before that got an 8.9/10, and the one before that got an 8.6. The only own I own is the one that got an 8.9 (Song Tungs) and I’d give it a 6.0. Based on Pitchfork’s improving scale, and the fact that they seem to get more commercial and less precious with each release, I’ll probably be a fan in about three years. By then they’ll probably be calling themselves David Porter and Noah Lennox instead of Avey Tare and Panda Bear.

Clap Your Hands Say Yeah / Elvis Perkins @ Troubadour (Sold Out) – CYHSY had the undying love of the blogger community until they released their second album. While the first one had five or six good songs, I didn’t hear much on the second effort. Pitchfork gave that first one a 9.0/10 and the second one a 7.2/10. I’d give the first one a 7.8/10 and the second one a 4.6/10. That coupled with the fact that they were terrible when I saw them at El Rey makes me surprised that they were able to sell out three nights at the Troubadour. Obviously a lot of you liked the new one more than I did.

Sinead O’Connor / Damien Dempsey @ Orpheum Theatre ($58) – So what music were you listening to when you lost your virginity? No special reason, I’m just curious….

Nightfur / Mountain Party / Tara Busch @ Bordello ($5)

Nu-tra @ the Echo ($5) – “synth-punk”

CB Brand @ Spaceland – For the country fans. I’ve heard good things about CB Brand and the Myspace stuff sounds good.

Highlights from Tonight's Live Music Calendar Monday 9/17/07

The Happy Hollows Play the Echo Tonight

I made it out for Built to Spill on Friday. Despite the fact that they tune between every song and have very little stage presence, they're still a very engaging live band. I think it's because they have so many good songs and such a great guitar sound. I wasn't looking forward to it all that much, but ended up enjoying it quite a bit.

Tonight's Pick (9/17/07):

The Happy Hollows / Le Switch / Rademacher / The May Fire @ the Echo (Free) – The Happy Hollows are opening for the Silversun Pickups when they play the Wiltern on October 20th. Their Monday night residency has apparently been packing them in. I think tonight’s the first one I’m going to check out. The Aquarium Drunkard recently announced that his label, Autumn Tone, will be putting out Le Switch’s next EP. It can’t come soon enough for me. Rademacher are Fresno band, that I’ve been meaning to check out forever.

Also Recommended:

Peter Bjorn & John / The Clientele @ Wiltern ($27) – I still think PB&J’s second and third albums are great. But going from the Roxy to the Wiltern in less than a year seems like too much of a jump (especially for $27 a ticket). The Clientele make good albums, but they’re pretty boring live.

Gram Rabbit / Abby Travis / Gwendolyn @ Spaceland (Free) – Gram Rabbit continues their residency.

Matt & Kim / XBXRX / Abe Vigoda @ Troubadour ($10) – Matt & Kim are a manic, keyboard-driven, Brooklyn duo who are pretty fun to see if you’re in the mood for a manic, keyboard-driven, Brooklyn duo.

Maybe you prefer:

The Sounds / Under the Influence of Giants @ Santa Monica Civic Auditorium ($25) –The second (best) Swedish band playing in LA tonight. The only thing worse than the lead singer of the Sounds appearance on that terrible song on the Snakes On a Plane soundtrack (and in the end credits) is the fact that they put New York City scenesters on the cover of their album instead of themselves. As many critics have pointed out, if you like Missing Persons, then you might like the Sounds.

The Valley Arena / Satisfaction / Repeater @ Silverlake Lounge (Free)

The Donnas / The Randies @ Viper Room ($10) – Female fronted, melodic, punk-pop.

KXLU Fundrazor Starts This Weekend

If you like indie music and indie radio, then help support KXLU. If you pledge enough, you'll get one of those iconic t-shirts or hoodies. Always a safe wardrobe option......

Pledge HERE

Highlights from the Weeekend Live Music Calendar

HEALTH Play the Smell on Sunday

Saturday's Choices 9/15/07:

Mudhoney [performing Superfuzz Big Muff] / The Melvins [performing Houdini] @ The Fonda (Sold Out) – Mudhoney probably invented grunge. I hear Mark Arm still works at Sub Pop. Houdini is often considered the Melvins crowning achievement.

Lobsterfest: Great Northern / Scissors for Lefty / Eagle and Talon / The Ringers / Fandango (Tribute to ZZ Top) @ Ports O’ Call Village in San Pedro ($8) – Doesn’t include the price of the lobster meal, which is $17. They fly in 13 tons of fresh Maine lobsters.

KROQ LA Invasion: Smashing Pumpkins / Foo Fighters / Velvet Revolver / Kid Rock / Chris Cornell / Cypress Hill / Satellite Party / Hot Hot Heat @ Home Depot Center ($35-85) – There’s something to say about all these 90s bands (many of them grunge and post-grunge) playing a massive arena while Mudhoney and the Melvins are playing across town, but I’m too lazy to say it. Does KROQ really play Kid Rock?

Check Yo’ Ponytail vs. Hang the DJ’s: VHS or Beta / Walter Meego / Institubes / others @ the Echo & Echoplex ($17) – For the indie dance crowd.

The Binges / Year Long Disaster @ Spaceland ($8)

Scorpions @ Gibson ($40-$70) – Their peak period creatively was the mid-70s to the early-80s. Not sure if they still subject their audience to “Wind of Change.”

Wolf Parade @ Glasshouse in Pomona ($20) – Driving out to the Glasshouse always makes me feel like I’m on vacation. I’d much rather see a band there than the Wiltern.

Sunday's Choices 9/16/07:

Letting Up Despite Great Faults / Henry Clay People @ All Star Lanes in Eagle Rock ($5 includes bowling shoe rental) – I don’t know much about them, but Letting Up’s album is a good listen. They’re doing a Sunday night residency at the All Star Lanes. It’s electro-pop – to put it very simply, along the lines of a more introspective Postal Service.
Download LUDGF’s “I Hear You Drowning But I’m Tied” and “Maybe I’ll Hide With You”

HEALTH / The Mae Shi / Clipd Beaks @ the Smell ($5) – This is the HEALTH record release show. Their new album comes out Tuesday on Lovepump United. With No Age’s recent signing to Sub Pop, HEALTH could be the next Smell band to break out nationally.
Download Health’s “Crimewave” and “Triceratops” and “Perfect Skin”

Handsome Furs / Johnny and the Moon / Nico Stai @ the Echo ($12) – The Wolf Parade dudes are wrapping up their tour in Pomona on Saturday night and taking their side projects to the Echo on Sunday. Handsome Furs is Dan Boeckner of Wolf Parade’s duo with Alexei Perry. Their debut on Sub Pop came out a couple of months ago. Johnny and the Moon is fractured folk from Dante DeCaro who was the original guitarist in Hot Hot Heat before leaving for Wolf Parade. It’s actually my favorite release from any of the Wolf Parade-affiliated bands.
Download Johnny and the Moon’s “Green Rocky Road” (courtesy of Pitchfork)
Download Handsome Furs’ “What We Had” and “Cannot Get, Started”

Part Time Punks: Spectrum / Midnight Movies @ Echoplex ($13) – I’m a Spacemen 3 fan, but I’ve never gotten that into Spectrum’s solo stuff from the past decade.

Cheap Trick @ SoCal Bikefest at Bonelli Park in San Dimas ($40)

Hello Menno / Icebird / Io Perry @ Spaceland (Free)

VHS or Beta @ Glasshouse ($12)

Highlights from Tonight's Music Calendar - Friday 9/14/07

Built To Spill

Friday's Pick:

Built to Spill /Jonathan Siegel / The Delusions @ Henry Fonda Theatre ($18) – I’ve enjoyed their last five studio albums. They’re one of the monsters of 1990s indie rock that’s still at it. After J. Mascis, Doug Martsch might be the king of indie guitar.

Other Options:

Cinematic Orchestra / Grey Reverend @ El Rey ($19)

Anders Parker @ Hotel Café – Rootsy, singer-songwriter stuff from the former Varnaline dude.

Dirty Projectors / Yacht @ Echoplex ($10) – The Dirty Projectors new album is a recreation (supposedly from memory) of Black Flag’s Damaged. Apparently the lyrics are the same, but little else resembles the original. Yacht has a lot of hipster cred too.

Calvin Harris / BM Linx @ the Echo ($8) – Calvin Harris has some buzz; for the indie dance crowd.

Ivan Ives @ Airliner – Russian rapper. Download “Victory”

Audra Hardt @ Keyclub

The Bravery / War Tapes @ Wiltern ($25)

Har Mar Pilot - Extras Needed

Will You Help This Man?

HAR MAR BACK ON TOP is a new show starring Har Mar Superstar.They're shooting the pilot episode this Friday, Sept 14th, in downtown LA at Little Radio [1214 Long Beach Avenue in Downtown Los Angeles]. They need extras to be Har Mar fans outside and inside the club. They need people to show up at Little Radio at 7PM and expect to stay until midnight. They want you to think of it as a party, as there will be booze, food and of course, a live performance by Har Mar Superstar. If you are interested in coming and having some fun and being in the show please RSVP with your name and phone number to: harmarshoot@mac.com. Bring friends, it's gonna be a party!

photo courtesy of totallynakedzombie

Thursday Night Live Options 9/13/07

Lots of good options again tonight....

Tivo Alert: Kanye West on Jimmy Kimmel

Tonight's Choice Choices:

Filter’s Revenge of the Sunset Strip: Jason Falkner / Castledoor / Annie Stela @ the Roxy ($10) – Another strong lineup from Filter. Jason Falkner doesn’t seem to play many shows these days. Falkner’s been a fixture on the LA pop scene since joining the Three O’Clock in the late 80’s. After that band dissolved he joined the much beloved Jellyfish with Roger Manning and Andy Sturmer. Since then he’s been putting out critically acclaimed solo pop records. Castledoor’s a local band that’s starting to get a lot of heat behind them. They played a popular Silverlake Lounge residency in June and have shared the stage with the Silversun Pickups and Earlimart.

Built to Spill / Camper Van Beethoven / The Delusions @ Henry Fonda Theatre ($18) – Old school indie darlings who I’ve always adored. I plan on seeing them Friday night.

Death to Anders / The Transmissions / The Health Club / One Trick Pony @ Spaceland – I’ve heard a lot about all these guys, but don’t have a lot of first hand knowledge. But the LA Weekly and Flavorpill both think you should check this out. It's a pretty safe bet that you'll like a couple of them.

Indie Schmindie: Thailand / Solare / Io Perry / Gertie Fox @ the Scene ($5) – Presented by Rock Insider – I like Thailand and I’ve heard great things about Solare, so this is a good lineup.

The Brunettes / Ferraby Lionheart / Mezzanine Owls @ Troubadour ($12) – The Brunettes are a promising band from New Zealand; they’re on Sub Pop. Ferraby Lionheart’s a local singer-songwriter on Nettwerk. Mezzanine Owls are a popular local shoegaze band. I hear their new stuff is really good.
Download The Brunettes’ “Small Town Crew”

Wolf Parade / Holy Fuck @ El Rey (Sold Out) – Indie darlings. I’ve never gotten into them or any of their side projects.
Download Wolf Parade’s “You Are a Runner and I Am My Father’s Son”

Austin James Band / Cavil at Rest @ Silverlake Lounge ($7)

The Hectors @ Charlie O’s in the Alexandria Hotel [501 Spring St.] – They’re also playing the next Let’s Independent on 9/25 at Boardner’s

Where’s Moo @ the Gig

Emitt Rhodes Self Titled Debut

Don't forget to listen to Sinking with Sylvia (and Sometimes Todd) today from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM on Little Radio. As I mentioned last week, they've generously allowed me to select one track a week. The idea is for me to then write about why I picked that track. I'm way behind. On 8/2/07 I selected Emitt Rhodes "Live Til You Die."

Emitt Rhodes is a singer-songwriter from Hawthorne, CA (also home of the Beach Boys, Black Flag and Dios). Being relatively young, I think I first became aware of him through the Merry-Go-Round song "Live" which is included on the Nuggets box set. Even on a compilation of stand out tracks, that track still stood out for me. Cut to years later, and my friend Tita did a vinyl transfer of his self-titled solo album onto a CD-R for me. I was immediately smitten. The record's so full of humanity. It's mostly all sensitive man lyrics about love and hope and disappointment and falling down and getting back up again. The guy writes amazing melodies and has a great voice. While the solo Paul McCartney comparisons often dominate reviews of this album, I think younger fans who love Elliott Smith will find a lot to like too.

Unfortunately digital and CD copies of his records are hard to find. However, if you have a turntable this first album isn't that rare. You can usually find it in the $5-10 range (I've scored a couple of copies at Freakbeat in the Valley). In keeping with the spirit of turning people on to music the old fashioned way, I recently passed along a vinyl copy of this to my friend Ryan for his birthday. He's since told me that he's bought copies online for family members and sought out Rhodes' other records. I recently picked up a Russian vinyl reissue of The American Dream at Love Garden in Lawrence, KS. If you don't have a turntable, go ahead and pick up the Rev-Ola compilation, Listen Listen: the Definitive Merry-Go-Round Collection. While not as good as the Rhodes solo debut, there are a lot of gems ("Time Will Show the Wiser" to name one).

Today, Emitt's still living in Hawthorne. The Prix recorded some of their early stuff with him. If you want to get in touch with him, Cashew from the Prix might be able to help you.

Read the original Rolling Stone review for Emitt's self titled album HERE.

Read the All Music Guide review HERE.

Stream some songs from the fan run Emitt Rhodes Myspace page

photo collage from the fan run Emitt Rhodes website

Neil Young Tix on Sale Now

Just found out the Neil Young fan club presale started today. Go to Musictoday. Unfortunately the tickets are $270 each after service charges. I just looked and row Y center stage is available. If you don't buy them now, the AEG presale starts Friday morning at 10:00 AM. The regular sale starts Sunday at 10:00AM. The cheapest tickets are $75.50 and they escalate to $257 before service charges.....that's a lot of money, but he is Neil Young.

Live Music Listings: Wednesday 9/12/07

Everest Play the Bordello Tonight

Wednesday 9/12/07:

Tivo Alert: Spoon on Craig Kilborn; Modest Mouse on Jimmy Kimmel

Pinback @ Amoeba (Free) 7:00PM

Tonight's Pick:

Buddy (9:30 PM) / Everest (10:30 PM) / Sally Jaye (8:30 PM) @ Bordello ($8) – Buddy’s a talented local singer-songwriter who plays “wimpy-core” (self-described). He’s doing a Wednesday night residency at the Bordello this month. He’s also playing an Elton John tribute at Carnegie Hall in October. Everest’s a local super group that plays mellow country-infused rock ‘n’ roll.
Download Buddy’s “Westgate”

Other Choices:

Spoon / Black Joe Lewis @ The Fonda ($20) – I ended up getting rid of my tickets to last night’s show. As great as their albums are, I just don’t feel like seeing them live right now.

Kinski / Dead Ponies @ the Echo ($10) – Kinski’s a heavy rock band from Seattle on Sub Pop. Dead Ponies a heavy rock band from LA. Both are worth checking out.
Download Kinski’s “Semaphore”

Dengue Fever @ MacArthur Park (Free) – One of the most unique bands (Cambodian psych) in LA playing one of the most unique locations.

Brandi Carlile / A Fine Frenzy @ House of Blues ($18)

Club NME: BM Linx / Sparrow Love Crew @ Spaceland ($8) – The drink prices at Spaceland are already the best in town and now they’re doing $1 Dewars after midnight on Wednesday nights.

Sweet Evil / 10’ors @ Silverlake Lounge ($8)

Adeline @ Tangier

Weekly New Releases 9/11/07

This is a ridiculously strong week with something for everybody (and lots for people with broad tastes).....

Top New Releases:

Animal Collective: Strawberry Jam (Domino) - Indie snobs and rock critics adore these guys (Pitchfork gave this one a 9.3 and it's gotten great reviews elsewhere). While I feel like it's a bit of a chore to listen to one of their records all the way through, they do have their moments. As affected as they seem to me, they're also undeniably original, psychedelic and whatever else you might feel about them. They seem to be having a lot of fun too, so it's hard to be too critical. At the Fonda on 9/18

[LOCAL] The Deadly Syndrome: The Ortolan (Dim Mak) – Back on December 8, 2006 I named them one of the my top three local bands to watch out for in 2007. Thankfully their debut record is finally available and it doesn't disappoint. The songs are mostly upbeat and catchy, but more introspective than I was expecting. The songs are often piano/keyboard driven but there's also the occasional accordion. I recommend this one if you're into slightly askew indie pop. Since I got it a few weeks ago, it's really grown on me. See them at the Detour Festival on 10/6.

Download “Eucalyptus”

[PART LOCAL] Film School: Hideout (Beggars) – The San Francisco/LA band releases their third album. If you're into dreamy, atmospeheric noise pop then you'll want to check this one out. See them at Amoeba on 9/20 and Echoplex on 11/15. Download “Lectric”

The Go Team!: Proof of Youth (Sub Pop) - This is their eagerly anticipated second album. They've got a live band and a lot of guest appearances. I haven't heard it yet, but based on the reviews, it sounds like it's just as exuberant and well suited for starting the party as their first album. See them at the Echoplex on 10/21.

Oakley Hall

: I'll Follow You (Merge) - This is the Brooklyn band's fourth release. With their lap steel, fiddle and organ (along with drums, bass, and guitars) their music should appeal to people who like old country-rock. But the great thing about Oakley Hall is that their not on some retro trip. Instead of trying to duplicate the masters, they're bringing a perspective informed by punk, krautrock and classic rock. The result is a fresh rock'n'roll sound. Easily their best album to date. Recommended for fans of straight up rock'n'roll. They're a great live band too. See them at Spaceland on 9/21.

Pinback: Autumn of the Seraphs (Touch & Go) - I like all their records, so I'm sure I'll like this one. Layered and lush indie rock that sometimes gets wrongly labeled emo. See them at Amoeba on 9/12 and the Wiltern on 10/28.

Listen to "From Nothing to Nowhere"

Emma Pollock: Watch the Fireworks (4AD) - I was a fan of the Delgados, so I was immediately drawn to Emma's voice on her solo debut. There are a few tracks like the excellent "Adrenaline" that sound like they could have been on the last Delgados record. Not all the tracks are that upbeat, but the whole record's well worth hearing. This one is recommended for fans of dreamy, indie pop.
Download "Adrenaline" [Highly Recommended]

[LOCAL] Qui: Love’s Miracle (Ipecac) - They were an intense local duo who got the opportunity to have one of their heroes join them as a frontman (David Yow of Jesus Lizard/Scratch Acid). The music's not for everybody, but if you're sick of Grey's Anatomy soundtracks, iTunes commercials and people rocking out to the Shins and Arcade Fire in their BMWs, then this might be the kick in the scrotum you need. Recommended for fans of the Melvins, Jesus Lizard, Scratch Acid and other bowel loosening music. See them at the Echo tonight (9/11)

Kanye West: Graduation (Roc-aFella) - This one's getting almost univerally positive reviews. Check out Jeff Weiss' humorous take on the 50 Cent/Kanye beef at the LA Weekly.

Other Noteworthy New Releases:

50 Cent: Curtis (G-Unit/Interscope) - Timbaland and Dr. Dre help producer. Eminem and Justin Timberlake make appearances. Mostly blah reviews.

Adrian Orange: Adrian Orange & Her Band (K) - Formerly of Thanksgiving. No longer lo-fi, he's got a 17 piece band backing him up.

Axe Riverboy: Tu Tu to Tango (Minty Fresh) - The former frontman for French rockers, Tahiti 80. I liked those guys, very light, upbeat, almost dance music.

Black Francis: Bluefinger (Cooking Vinyl) - The Pixies frontman. See him at Safari Sam's on 10/15 and 10/16.

Black Lips: Good Bad Not Evil (Vice) - Garage punks. See them at the Troubadour on 10/19.

C.O.C.O: Play Drums + Bass (K) - Inspired by ESG and no wave bands. Download "For You"

Vic Chesnutt: North Star Deserter (Constellation) - Talented rootsy singer-songwriter.

The Dirty Projectors: Rise Above (Dead Oceans) - Covering Black Flag songs. At the Echo on 9/14.

[LOCAL] Eulogies: Eulogies (Dangerbird) – Local indie rockers led by Dangerbird Records founder, Peter Walker. If you like his solo records, I'm sure you'll like this. Their tour with Film School stops at the Echoplex on 11/15.

Download “One Man”

Figurines: When the Deer Wore Blue (The Control Group) - Indie rockers from Denmark. I haven't heard it yet. See them at Spaceland on 10/16.

The Good Life: Help Wanted Nights (Saddle Creek) - Led by Cursive's Tim Kasher. At the Troubadour on 10/25. Supposedly Kasher lives in LA these days.
Download "Heartbroke" and "You Don't Feel Like Home to Me"

Joe Henry: Civilians (Anti) - Veteran, rootsy singer-songwriter. Van Dyke Parks makes an appearance. See him at Largo on 9/14.

Hot Hot Heat: Happiness LTD (Sire) - See them tonight (9/11) for free at Cinespace with the purchase of the album at Best Buy. I haven't heard this one yet. I think the guitarist lives in LA these days.

Picastro: Whore Luck (Polyvinyl) - Female fronted, maudlin band with stark instrumentation.
Download "Hortur"

[LOCAL] Jonathan Rice: Further North (Reprise) – Local singer-songwriter and the envy of indie dudes around the world (he dates Jenny Lewis). I haven't heard this one, but All Music said his last album was somewhere between Pete Yorn and Badly Drawn Boy. At the Troubadour on 10/25.

Shout Out Louds: Our Ill Wills (Merge) - This is the Swedes indie debut after getting dropped by Capitol. I haven't heard the whole thing, but that first single is ridiculously Cure-like. Their first album was pretty good, so if you don't mind derivative music and like indie pop, check it out. See them at the Detour Festival on 10/6.

Simian Mobile Disco: Attack Decay Sustain Release (Wichita) – Producers and former members of Simian. If you like house/dance music along the lines of Daft Punk, you might want to check this out. At the Echoplex on 9/22.

Taken By Trees: Open Field (Rough Trade) - This is Victoria Bergsman's new solo release. She was formerly the singer in the Concretes and she's the female voice on PB&J's "Young Folks." I've listened to this one a couple of times and it's pretty good. I do like her voice, but the arrangements aren't that varied and the songs start to run into each other by the end. However, if you like fragile, female voices, go stream it on Myspace and see what you think.

Reissues / Compilations:

Ani DiFranco: Canon (Righteous Babe) - Career retropspective.

Cloud Cult: Advice from the Happy Hippopotamus (Earthology) – Re-release

Elvis Costello: My Aim Is True Reissue (Hip-O)

June Panic: Songs from Purgatory (Secretly Canadian) - Compilation

Download "Sundowner" and "Birthday Present"

Mono: Gone - A Collection of EPs 2000-2007 (Temporary Residence) – Live at El Rey on 9/21

Download “Gone”