Wednesday, November 26, 2008

Benefit Compilations - KCRW Tidbits



Dangerbird Records has teamed up with Filter Magazine and Urban Outfitters to release a two-disc compilation Give.Listen.Help. Disc one features previously unreleased tracks (from the likes of the Little Ones and Rilo Kiley) and remixes (from the likes of Oasis and Bloc Party). Disc two features Dangerbird artists (Silversun Pickups, Sea Wolf, Darker My Love Dears, etc.). 93% of all proceeds will go to benefit the Pablove Foundation - which was set up by Dangerbird co-founder, Jeff Castelaz after his five year old son was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer. These funds are earmarked for Children's Hospital Los Angeles.


Read Castelaz's blog about his son

Tune in to KCRW tonight at 8:00 PM to hear Castelaz share tracks from the compilation

In other KCRW news, they've released their DJs top 10 records of 2008. Nic Harcourt has the Broken West on his. Cool.

Local blog, Confessions of a Would-Be Hipster have put together a holiday compilation to benefit Midnight Mission. Included on the comp are local artists like Let's Go Sailing, Earlimart, Fol Chen, I Make This Sound, Great Northern, The Sweet Hurt, Princeton, The Hectors, The Monalators, Letting Up Despite Great Faults and more.

New Music Releases - 11/18/08


Kinda slept on this, but the Femi Kuti is worth picking up. Belle & Sebastian isn't a slam dunk, but diehards should enjoy it.
New Music Releases 11/18/08:

Records I’ve Heard:
Belle & Sebastian: The BBC Sessions (Matador) – Features BBC radio sessions from 1996 to 2001. Some of the performances pre-date the recorded version and have different arrangements. Most interesting are the four previously unreleased tracks from the last days of Isobel Campbell’s tenure in the band. I wouldn’t classify them as lost treasures, but fans will enjoy them (one is a really fun tune about the Go-Betweens). This collection isn’t a good introduction to the band, but diehard fans should dig it.

Note: There’s a limited edition double CD version with a bonus disc featuring songs from a December 2001 show in Belfast. It features some interesting covers, but unfortunately it doesn’t come with the vinyl version.

Femi Kuti: Day By Day (Mercer St. / Downtown) – The timing couldn’t be better for Fela’s oldest son to put out his first record in seven years. Positive Force, his 17-piece backing band, smoothly fuses Afrobeat, jazz, reggae and soul. Recommended. At the House of Blues on 1/23/09

Other Noteworthy Releases:
Alaska In Winter
Anathallo – Anticon
Beyonce
Bring Me the Horizon – Epitaph
Isobel Campbell & Mark Lanegan
David Cook – American Idol winner
Dido
Sammy Hagar
Kieran Hebden & Steve Reid
Ladyhawke
Mudvayne
Nickelback
Earl Scruggs – live at the Ryman
Senior Coconut
Stereophonics – best of
Max Tundra
Various Artists – The Complete Motown Singles Volume 11A – 1971
Various Artists – Gonzo (Hunter S. Thompson) soundtrack
Nimrod Workman – Drag City
Andy Yorke – Thom’s bro

Tuesday, November 25, 2008

Ticket Giveaway - Blitzen Trapper & Parson Red Heads


I've got a few pairs of tickets to give away for the Blitzen Trapper / Parson Red Heads show this Sunday at the Echo. This is an early (doors at 7:00 PM) all ages show. Blitzen Trapper's new Sub Pop record has gotten great reviews. In four out of four of my interviews with LA bands, The Parson Red Heads have been mentioned as one of the best local bands.

To win these tickets email me [dukeufo at gmail] with something you're thankful for this Thanksgiving. Please put "Blitzen Red Heads" in the subject line. The contest closes Friday at 9:00 AM.

MP3: Blitzen Trapper - Furr
MP3: Blitzen Trapper - Gold for Bread
MP3: The Parson Red Heads - Got It All
MP3: The Parson Red Heads - Crowds

Buy Tickets

Monday, November 24, 2008

Live Music Options: 11/24/08 - 11/30/08 - Giveaway for the Rosebuds


I've got some tickets to give away for the Rosebuds (pictured above) Tuesday night at the Echoplex. Just email me [dukeufo at gmail] with your first and last name. The contest closes Tuesday at Noon. Please put "Rosebuds" in the subject line.

It's a surpringly (given the holiday) strong week for live shows. I'm sure a lot of you are excited to check out Deerhunter, The Hold Steady, The Decemberists, M83/School of Seven Bells and Blitzen Trapper.

Monday 11/24/08
[Recommended] Patton Oswalt @ Largo ($25) – Great standup.
The Western States Motel / Marching Band / Tigers Can Bite You / The Voyeurs @ Spaceland (Free) – This is the last night of the Marching Band, Western States Motel co-residency. Good support tonight.
MP3: The Western States Motel’s Oh World
The Monolators / Kevin Shields / Milton Melvin Croissant / Ema and The Ghosts @ Pehrspace – This is the last night of the Monolators’ residency.
MP3: The Monoators’ Don’t Dance
The Decemberists / Loch Lomond @ The Wiltern ($30) – I’ve seen the Decemberists a couple of times and they have hardcore fans.
His Orchestra / Japanese Motors / Juliet Piper / Yellow Red Sparks @ Silverlake Lounge (Free) – Japanese Motors recently signed with Vice Records. They go on at midnight.
Weave! / Crooked Cowboy / Edward Sharpe & the Magnetic Zeros / Fawnhawk @ The Echo (Free) – The Weave! Residency will continue next week.
GWAR @ House of Blues Sunset ($22.50)
MC Lars / MC Frontalot @ Knitting Factory ($10)
Jake Labotz @ Redwood Bar & Grill
Shwayze / Cisco Adler @ the Roxy
Icy Demons @ Echo Curio
The Hereafter / The Lincoln Bedroom @ Hotel Café

Tuesday 11/25/08
[Recommended] The Rosebuds / Jonah Ray / Lemon Sun / Dazzler @ the Echoplex ($10) – The new Rosebuds record is well worth checking out. I’ve got some tickets to give away for this, so email me if you want them.
MP3: The Rosebuds’ Life Like
[Recommended] Mike Stinson / Dave Gleason @ Redwood Bar & Grill – Another good local country bill.
The Hold Steady / Drive-By Truckers @ The Wiltern ($25) – The Hold Steady fans are just insane.
Deerhunter / Times New Viking @ El Rey ($17.50) – The new Deerhunter record is more consistent than the last.
Giant State @ Troubadour ($8)
Gary Jules / Mike Andrews @ Hotel Café
Danger Bees / So Many Wizards / Czech Summer / Dr. Yes @ Silverlake Lounge
Ben Kenney (of Incubus) @ House of Blues Sunset ($13.50)
Red Maids / Killsonic / The Fuckin’ Kennies @ Mr. T’s Bowl
The Australian Pink Floyd Show @ Gibson Amphitheatre ($10 - $75)

Wednesday 11/26/08
[Recommended] Flying Tourbillon Orchestra / I Make This Sound / Obi Best / Princeton @ the Echo (Free) – Very solid local lineup.
Nas @ Club Nokia ($48)
Matthew Sweet / The Records / Death on Two Wheels @ El Rey ($26) - $5 off at door with canned food item. If you’ve never heard the Record’s “Starry Eyes,” do yourself a favor and download it immediately.
My Brightest Diamond / Clare & the Reasons @ Hotel Café
Low End Theory Club: The Entrance Band / Free the Robots @ Airliner ($10)
Marc Ford / Paper Sun / Jason Corcoran @ the Mint ($15)
Club NME: Circus Minor / Paper Pills @ Spaceland ($5)
Pierce the Veil @ Troubadour ($12)
New Kids on the Block @ Nokia Live ($77.50)
Eric Benet @ House of Blues Sunset ($27.50)
Hellogoodbye @ Knitting Factory (Sold Out)
Evangenitals @ Mr. T’s Bowl
Green Jelly @ Viper Room (Free)

Thursday 11/27/08
TURKEY DAY (most venues are closed)

Friday 11/28/08
The Melvins / Big Business / Porn @ Troubadour ($20) – Good, heavy lineup.
Metro Station @ Club Nokia ($18.50)
Bell Biv DeVoe @ House of Blues Sunset ($35.00)
The Union Line / Voxhaul Broadcast / My Pet Saddle @ Hotel Café
Big Sandy & His Flyrite Boys @ Redwood Bar & Grill
Pussycat Dolls Lounge @ Viper Room ($25)
The Temptations / The Four Tops @ Gibson Amphitheatre ($10 - $75)

Saturday 11/29/08
[Recommended] M83 / School of Seven Bells @ The Fonda ($25) – I like the School of Seven Bells record.
Subtle / Zach Hill (of Hella) @ Knitting Factory ($12) – Seeing Zach Hill can make your head explode.
The Melvins / Big Business / Porn @ Troubadour ($20)
Sergio Medes @ Club Nokia ($50 - $70)
Holly Go-Lightly and the Broke-Offs / Frank Fairfield @ Spaceland ($12)
Dir En Gray / The Human Abstract @ the Wiltern ($32.50)
Hungry Beat Dance Party @ Pehrspace – Presented by the Squaregirls
Ladyfingers / Jean Paul Yamamoto / Love Grenades @ Redwood Bar & Grill
Harlem / Hunx and His Punx / Bridez @ The Smell ($5)
Pussycat Dolls Lounge @ Viper Room ($25)

Sunday 11/30/08
[Recommended] Kidrockers: The Parson Red Heads / The Henry Clay People @ The Echo ($12) – Adults must be accompanied by a kid. The show starts at 1:00 PM.
[Recommended] Blitzen Trapper / The Parson Red Heads @ The Echo ($12) – Doors open at 7:00 PM for the all ages show. I’ve got some tickets to give away for this one.
Charlie Wadhams / All Spots to Black @ Tangier ($7) – Last night of Charlie’s Sunday night residency.
Bone Thugs-N-Harmony @ Club Nokia (Sold Out)
Azure Ray / Tim Kasher / Whispertown 2000 @ Troubadour ($15)
Neil Hamburger @ Spaceland ($8)
Jonas Brothers @ Hollywood Palladium ($80)
Part Time Punks @ the Echo ($5) – Starts after the Blitzen Trapper show.
Alex and Sam @ Hotel Café

Friday, November 21, 2008

Limited Edition Vinyl Giveaway - Dengue Fever's Escape From Dragon House


UPDATE - THIS CONTEST IS OFFICIALLY CLOSED AND THE WINNERS HAVE BEEN NOTIFIED, THANK YOU FOR ENTERING!!! IF YOU DIDN'T WIN - ORDER THE VINYL NOW....
I'm giving away a few copies of the recently reissued, limited edition vinyl version of Dengue Fever's 2005 album, Escape From Dragon House. It's on pretty, green vinyl too.
Fusing Cambodian psych-pop, indie rock and Ethiopian rock/funk, Dengue Fever is one of LA's most unique bands. Their music was featured in Jim Jarmusch's Broken Flowers, HBO's new hit show, True Blood and they recently recorded a set for the BBC's Later...with Jools Holland.
Their documentary Sleepwalking Through the Mekong will be released on DVD in the Spring.
To win this vinyl, email me [dukeufo at gmail] with the name of the most interesting place you've been on vacation. Please include your first and last name and your address and put "Dengue Fever" in the subject line. The contest closes next Wednesday at 6:00 PM.
Visit Dengue Fever's store (some cool merch items)

Thursday, November 20, 2008

Recently Announced Live Shows

Andrew Bird Puts on a Damn Good Show

Andrew Bird / Loney Dear @ Orpheum on 2/18/09 (presale Friday at 10:00 AM, password = NOBLE; public on sale is Saturday at 10:00 AM)

America @ Club Nokia on 12/4/08 (presale on now, password = MAGIC, public on sale is Friday at 10:00 AM)

Bloc Party @ Grove of Anaheim on 12/15/08 (on sale Saturday at 10:00 AM)

Akon @ Club Nokia on 12/30/08 (presale on now, password = KONVICT; public on sale Friday at 10:00 AM)

Boyz II Men @ Club Nokia on12/16/08 (presale on now, password = BOYZ; public on sale Friday at 10:00 AM)

Tim and Eric Awesome Show @ Club Nokia on 1/17/09 (presale on now, password = AWESOME; public on sale Saturday at 10:00 AM)

The Walkmen / Beach House @ the Fonda on 1/20/09 (on sale Saturday at 10:00 AM)

Chris Pierce @ El Rey on 1/23/09 (on sale Friday at 10:00 AM)

Tyrone Wells @ El Rey on 1/30/09 (on sale now)

Kinky @ The Fonda on 2/24/09 (on sale now)

Dan Auerbach / Hacienda / Those Darlins @ El Rey on 3/14/09 (on sale Saturday at 10:00 AM)

Snoop Dogg @ House of Blues on Sunset on 12/31/08 (on sale now)

Femi Kuti @ Hosue of Blues on Sunset on 1/23/09 (on sale Saturday)

Brett Dennen @ House of Blues Sunset on 3/24/09 & 3/25/09 (on sale Saturday)

YaHoWa 13 @ Spaceland on 12/19/08 (on sale now at Ticketweb)

Wednesday, November 19, 2008

Interview with David Dewese



Here's an interview with David Dewese. David’s a Nashville based singer-songwriter who I met about seven years ago through our mutual friend, Jerry James (his bandmate in the Foxymorons). David recently released his first solo record, Make the Best Of It and it’s available via iTunes, Amazon and other online retailers. You can stream some tracks at his Myspace page. Even if you’re not familiar with David’s music, there’s some great info on Nashville in the interview, so hopefully we hold your interest…..

You Set the Scene: How are things in Nashville?
David Dewese: Cold. I’m not cut out for the cold.

YSTS: Me neither. What’s the temperature?
DD: 46 degrees.

YSTS: Ouch. Yeah, it’s warm here, but the air quality is terrible. The fires have been burning on all sides. We stayed in as much as possible this weekend.
DD: One of the sad annual events out there.

YSTS: Definitely. So two bands just wasn’t enough for you…what made you decide to release a solo record?
DD: It's definitely not one of those situations where I write too many songs. It was really based on the fact that I've been playing more and more solo acoustic shows. It was always awkward at the merch table explaining how all those rock band CDs spread across the table were actually me. I wanted to make an acoustic album that I could tour alone if I needed to and if someone bought an album at a show I wanted it to sound close to what they just listened to. It also just seemed like a good time. This is my ninth release and I needed to get one with my name on it.

YSTS: I know you and Jerry [the other half of the Foxymorons] live in different cities, but what’s the deal with the Luxury Liners? Is it just tougher to get them together for shows as you’ve gotten older?
DD: Yeah, that's another reason. Our bass player moved to Michigan last year so we've just been getting friends to sub when we play. At this age no one really wants to "be" in our band I guess. Ha.

YSTS: When you write a song, is it pretty obvious right away what the best outlet for the song will be? I mean the Luxury Liners and the Foxymorons are clearly very different bands.
DD: Sometimes it works that way, but one will often get the other's rejects. This new album is about half new and half older songs that were never recorded by the bands for various reasons. I definitely wouldn't call them rejects in this case.

YSTS: You’re billing this as a “solo acoustic guy” record, but there are strings, pedal steel, banjo and piano as well. Did you play a lot of the instruments? Or get help from friends?
DD: The initial plan was for this to be more of a guitar/vocal album. My co-producer, Chris Brush, is also a drummer and I was having him put some light percussion on the record while I was out of the country. When I got back he'd recorded full drum kit on all of the songs. Being a band guy at heart, I was thrilled, however that meant I needed to add a few more instruments to fill out the sound. So yeah, I played a lot of stuff on it but I ended up having a long list of talented Nashville friends add parts to each song.

YSTS: It turned out really well. I like all those embellishments.
DD: Thanks. I'm a big fan of just letting records turned out how they turn out. Not trying to force it into a pre-planned box.

YSTS: How long have you been playing music and what inspired you to pick up a guitar?
DD: My Dad got me started playing guitar when I was in 3rd or 4th grade. He'd have me play blues chords while he'd rip extended solos. In middle school I had to practice guitar to earn lunch money so I could buy lunch with the cool kids. Naturally I hated guitar. I got interested on my own terms while in college and quickly started playing out.

YSTS: That’s funny. Like the opposite of the Dad who forces sports on his kid. Usually I talk about LA in these interviews, but since you’re from Nashville, let’s get an insiders view of Nashville. What’s it like to be a non-country guy in Nashville?
DD: I moved here in 1997 and quickly found a thriving community of non-country musicians and bands. The best part is that it really IS a music city so I'm surrounded by musicians and bands of all kinds. Great friends with one thing in common - music. It doesn't matter if we specialize in Rock, Country, Christian, Bluegrass, Rockabilly, Folk, etc... Surrounded by amazing folks.

YSTS: Is the commercial, country Nashville scene an entirely separate entity? Or is there some interaction?
DD: It really is a totally different world. A tribe of it's own that I'm not really a part of. I tried writing a country song with a songwriter once. It was a real disaster.

YSTS: Who are some of the Nashville bands you’re into?
DD: I've been really caught up in all this buzz about How I Became The Bomb for the last couple weeks. There’s a wew free EP on their site, cool website, but I think it's mostly due to this totally rad video they made. I'm hooked on a video?? Here are some Nashville artists that I really like and hope people can check out: Brooke Waggoner, The Nobility, Judd & Maggie, Glossary, Vovo, Eureka Gold, Magic Wands, Robby Hecht, Mondo Primo, Katie Herzig, The Features, Butterfly Boucher, and Derek Webb.

YSTS: What part of town do you live in? And can you give LA readers an idea of what the cost of living is like in Nashville?
DD: When I moved here in 1997 I randomly landed in an area in West Nashville called Sylvan Park. I've lived in this neighborhood ever since. As far as cost of living, I understand that it's cheap and I assume that's one of the reasons so many people keep moving out here. I've been "moving to LA" off and on for five years, ha ha. I think the doubled price of rent out there is one of the things that holds me back though.

YSTS: Yeah, if you’re willing to have a roommate and be in a slightly more dangerous neighborhood, LA is pretty affordable as far as big cities go. But if you want to be a grown up and buy a house, even with the real estate market, it’s still pretty out of control. What are the best venues in town for indie bands to play?
DD: I'll gear this response toward touring acts wondering where to play. Contact The Basement first; it’s above a great record store called Grimey’s. Next try The Rutledge or The 5 Spot, then The End. Springwater as a last resort. Don't bother with French Quarter, Exit/In, Mercy Lounge / Cannery Ballroom unless you’ve got a booking agent; they’re too big for out-of-towners. I did my CD release a few weeks ago at the 90-capacity Bongo Java upstairs theater and loved it.

YSTS: Are there any good Nashville-centric blogs?
DD: Nashville Cream, Out the Other, We Own This Town, Yewknee, Nashvillest, The Coolfer guy lives here now too, although he's not Nashville-centric.

YSTS: What’s your favorite breakfast spot? If you have any LA choices feel free to add those too….
DD: In Nashville: Pancake Pantry, Noshville, Loveless, Pfunky Griddle and in LA, The Griddle.

YSTS: I haven’t been to the Griddle in a long time. It was a lot easier when Jerry lived around the corner and would walk down and put our name on the list. How’s the Mexican food there? Would fried chicken or barbeque be a better question? Favorite spots?
DD: For Mexican, Yo La Tengo has thanked La Hacienda in their liner notes many times. I would have to thank La Hacienda too. We have a lot of "hot chicken" places in Nashville. Tennessee is also a pork barbeque place. I've learned to really appreciate it after resisting for years. Growing up in Texas, I'm a beef brisket fan.

YSTS: I’m definitely more of a pork BBQ guy. It took some adjusting when I moved to Texas.
DD: Speaking of Yo La Tengo, they actually have several songs with "Hot Chicken" in the title. I believe they are in reference to Nashville's Prince's Hot Chicken Shack.

YSTS: Yeah, great songs (and a fun play on the Burritos). Does the restaurant live up to the hype?
DD: It's a real dump. Very strange but I can see how you could get hooked. The only form of drink they used to have was a coin operated soda machine. If you didn't have change you were screwed. You basically couldn't eat. They fry the chicken in old time-y cast iron skillets too - not a big vat. It's just like grandma's except molten hot.

YSTS: Best burger?
DD: Rotier’s

YSTS: Favorite bar?
DD: 12 South Tap Room.

YSTS: Your drink of choice?
DD: Maggie Moo's Udderly Cream Milkshake

YSTS: Your favorite thing about living in Nashville?
DD: All the music going on.

YSTS: Least favorite thing about living in Nashville?
DD: The coldness of my house.

YSTS: Your favorite book?
DD: The 4-Hour Work Week.

YSTS: Favorite film about LA or set in LA?
DD: Lords of Dogtown

YSTS: We just watched that documentary on Christian Hosoi….Rising Son.
DD: Ah cool, I want to see that.

YSTS: It’s pretty fascinating.
DD: He was in prison, right?

YSTS: Yeah, it goes from his charismatic skateboarding days, to his drug problems, to finding Christianity. I think you’d dig it.
DD: Gosh, I wanted a Hosoi board in middle school.

YSTS: Any must see TV?
DD: I'm freaking out over It's Always Sunny In Philadelphia right now. I’m watching it on hulu.com

YSTS: That show is so wrong. So un-PC.
DD: Don't ya just love it?!

YSTS: Yeah, very uncomfortable humor. I guess Dee and Mac are married in real life, and stop in at Spaceland from time to time.
DD: Oh man, that's what I want to hear. Sweet D!

YSTS: Danny Devito was a great addition to that show. It seems to be one of those shows that people are discovering on DVD.
DD: It wasn't on my radar until a month ago. I’d never even heard of it somehow. My other Hulu shows are The Office and 30 Rock.

YSTS: 30 Rock's disappointing me a little this year. I think all the stunt casting is detracting from the show a little.
DD: As long as audible laughs are leaving my body I'm happy.

YSTS: That’s a very good point. Your five desert island records?
DD: Neil Young – Decade, The Lemonheads - It's A Shame About Ray,Beatles - Rubber Soul, Byrds - Sweetheart of the Rodeo and Wilco – Summerteeth

YSTS: I’m right there with you on four out of five, but the Lemonheads -not that it’s a bad record or anything, just not desert island material?
DD: The Lemonheads is important to me. That's the record that made me realize music wasn't hard and singing could be easy. Before that, I was struggling to pull off Pearl Jam riffs and wondering why I didn't sound like Kurt Cobain when I sang.

YSTS: One last question – I’m curious about western suits there in Nashville. I know Manuel still has a shop. Is it pretty easy to find used Nudie suits and used Manuel suits? Or are they just as expensive as LA….
DD: Just as expensive. The bigger problem is lack of selection. LA has a better selection of used western clothes in my opinion. We only have a handful of vintage stores. Katy K's is a great western/rockabilly store though.

YSTS: What’s Manuel’s store like?
DD: No price tags. It's more like a museum although I haven't been in years. It's not an inviting entrance. I doubt more than five people walk in there all day, if any at all. The people they do get are probably for fittings or measuring for custom clothes. In 1997 you could walk in and hold Gram Parsons’ famous pants.

YSTS: I think that’s it for me. Any parting words?
DD: Thanks for the interview and I'm really happy to see your blog grow over the years.

YSTS: Thank you. Yeah, it’s been fun.

MP3s:

Just for fun, here's an MP3 of The Foxymorons (with David singing) doing a cover of The Flying Burrito Brothers' "Older Guys" [The Henry Clay People made me think of it when they did the same cover last night at the Echoplex.]

And an MP3 of an original Foxymorons song (with David singing) "Hesitation Eyes"

Previous Interviews: Le Switch, The Broken West, The Henry Clay People, Everest

Tuesday, November 18, 2008

Ticket Giveaway - O'Death and Le Switch


I've got a few pairs of tickets to give away for the O'Death show this Saturday at Spaceland. Opening the show will be Le Switch and Death to Anders. Should be a rollicking good time. I've heard O'Death is pretty insane live and Le Switch is one of my favorite bands.
To win these tickets email me [dukeufo at gmail] with the name of the best live band you've seen this year. Please put O'Death in the subject line. The contest closes Friday at Noon.
MP3: O'Death - Down to Rest
MP3: Le Switch - Give Me Something
Buy tickets HERE

Monday, November 17, 2008

Live Music Options: 11/17/08 - 11/23/08


I really enjoyed seeing Dungen last week. They finally lived up to their records and honestly sounded about ten times better than the last couple of times I saw them.
If you wanna follow the hyped bands, you've got some good options this week. Love Is All / Vivian Girls on Tuesday, El Guincho on Thursday, Of Montreal / HEALTH on Saturday and Yeasayer on Sunday. I would prefer the alternative of Everest / Henry Clay People on Tuesday, Rodriguez or Lucinda Williams on Friday and O'Death / Le Switch on Saturday. As always, the important thing is to just get out and support somebody.....
Monday 11/17/08
The Breeders / The Muslims / Whispertown 2000 @ the Wiltern ($25) – Congratulations to our contest winners.
The Monolators / The Voyeurs / Shirley Rolls / Fertile Crescent@ Pehrspace ($5) – The Monoloators continues their Monday night residency.
The Monolators - MP3: Don’t Dance
The Western States Motel / Marching Band / B.R.A.M. / The Karabal Nightlife @ Spaceland (Free) – The Western States Motel and Marching Band continue their dual Monday night residency.
The Wesern States Motel - MP3: Oh World
Weave! / Gods Gang / The Judy Experience @ the Echo (Free) – Weave! Continues its Monday night residency.
His Orchestra / The Franks / The Absolute / Tandemoro @ Silverlake Lounge (Free) – Stick around late for an increastingly rare live performance from Tandemoro.
The Shys / Army Navy / The Takeover UK @ Troubadour ($10)
El Gran Silencio @ Echoplex ($15)
Raul Midon / Morley @ Hotel Café

Tuesday 11/18/08
[Recommended] Everest / The Henry Clay People / Nico Stai / Dazzler @ the Echoplex (Free for 21 + / $5 for 18 +) – Everest and The Henry Clay People put out two of my favorite records this year.
Abe Vigoda / Love Is All / Vivian Girls / Nodzzz @ the Smell ($7) – If you missed the Part Time Punks fest, here’s a chance to see some of the buzziest bands.
Wait.Think.Fast / The Hectors / Fol Chen @ The Echo (Free) – Record release party for Wait.Think.Fast.
Let’s Independent: The Broken Remotes / Pizza! / Automatic Drawing @ Boardner’s (Free) – Radio Free Silver Lake’s monthly night. Tough competition, but this is the last one ever so show Joe your support.
Rachael Yamagata / Meiko / Thao Nguyen / Kate Havnevik / Emily Wells / Lenka @ the Fonda ($25)
Mike Stinson / Dave Gleason @ Redwood Bar & Grill - Great country lineup.
Charts & Maps / Signal Hill @ Mr. T's Bowl
The Lonely H / Impossible Shapes @ Spaceland
Misfits / D.I. @ House of Blues Sunset ($22.50)
Matisyahu / Flobots / Chester French @ Club Nokia ($25)
Jon McLaughlin @ El Rey
Ludovico Einaudi @ Largo
Angus and Julia Stone @ Hotel Café
Union Line / Voxhaul Broadcast / Local Natives / The Monthlies @ Silverlake Lounge ($8)

Wednesday 11/19/08
Angela Correa / Daniel Ahearn / Rachel Cantu / Tenlons Fort @ Mr. T's Bowl
Miranda Lee Richards / Venus Illuminato @ Tangier ($8) – Just got the new Miranda Lee Richards record, but I haven’t had a chance to listen yet…
Portugal, The Man / Earl Greyhound / Wintersleep @ Troubadour ($14)
Night Horse / Trigger Renegade / The High Saints @ the Echo ($5) – I saw Night Horse recently and it felt pretty grunge-y.
AIDS Wolf / Arrington De Dionvso / Foot Village / Bipolar Bear @ The Smell ($8)
Little Teeth @ Echo Curio
Usher @ Club Nokia (Sold Out)
OhGr (of Skinny Puppy) / American Memory Project @ El Rey ($25)
Dub Club: Sugar Minott @ Echoplex ($15)
Josh Kelley @ Hotel Café
Archways / Ballerina Black / Transfer / The Silent Comedy @ Silverlake Lounge ($8)

Thursday 11/20/08
El Guincho @ The Echo ($12) – He’s gotten a lot of internet buzz as the Spanish Panda Bear. The record was a little too repetitive for me, but might be fun to see live.
Jane's Addiction @ El Cid
Jogger / Meho Plaza / Tremellow / Slair / fast-astronauts @ The Smell
West Indian Girl / Poolabomb / The Polyamorous Affair / Tremblexy @ Spaceland ($12)
Little Teeth @ Prospector
[CANCELED] Kaiju Big Battel / Busdriver / Rocktapussy @ Mayan ($25) - CANCELED
The Sounds @ Hollywood Palladium ($24)
Rodney Crowell / Joe Henry @ Largo ($30)
Terra Naomi @ Hotel Café
Ojo / Collapsible Mammals / Billygoat @ Silverlake Lounge
Warren G @ Key Club

Friday 11/21/08
[Recommended] Lucinda Williams @ The Wiltern ($25 - $42) – I’m a big fan. If you can find a few friends you can get four tickets for $50.
[Recommended] Jon Brion & Friends @ Largo – One set only
Rodriguez / Connie Prince & the Keystones / Sleepy Sun @ The Echo ($12) – Light in the Attic just reissued Rodriguez’s psych-folk record from 1970. I know the Aquarium Drunkard liked it, which is a strong endorsement in my book.
War Tapes / The Human Value / Shiloe / The Black Kites @ Spaceland ($8)
Little Teeth @ Pehrspace
Aretha Franklin @ House of Blues Sunset ($95)
Sarah Silverman / Brian Posehn @ Club Nokia ($50)
Kraak & Smaak @ The Fonda ($20)
Medeski Martin & Wood @ El Rey ($28)
The White Buffalo @ Troubadour ($10)
Japanther / All Leather / Underground Railroad to Candyland / Killer Dreamer / The Amazements @ The Smell
Anya Marina @ Hotel Café
Moving Picture Show / Tic Tic Boom @ Tangier ($8)
Golden Animals / Starlite Desperation @ Redwood Bar & Grill

Saturday 11/22/08
[Recommended] O’Death / Le Switch / Death to Anders @ Spaceland ($10) – I’ve got some tickets to give away for this one, so check back in later this week.
Of Montreal / HEALTH @ Hollywood Palladium ($18.50) – Of Montreal is guaranteed to put on a show. It’s a shame all I can hear when I listen to them is: “Let’s go Outback tonight.”
Aretha Franklin @ House of Blues Sunset ($95)
Rhett Miller @ Largo
In Flames / All That Remains ($28.50)
Bring Me the Horizon @ Troubadour ($17)
Duhka / Not the Government / Corridor/ The Antarcticans @ The Smell
Zachariah & the Lobos Riders @ Hotel Café
Agent Ribbons / Heart of Gold @ Tangier ($8)
Gears / Mike Watt and the Secondmen @ Mr. T's Bowl

Sunday 11/23/08
[Recommended] Charlie Wadhams / Happy Stars / Anglos @ Tangier ($7)
Ranchero Bros @ Largo – This is Rhett Miller and Murry Hammond, but if you’re an Old 97s fan, you already knew that.
Sarah Gayle Meech @ Redwood Bar & Grill - Brunch show. Sarah's a very charming country singer.
Yeasayer / Icy Demons @ Troubadour ($15) – The guy from Yeasayer was such an asshole when I saw them that I haven’t been able to listen to their record since.
Ferdinand / Double Naught Spy Car / Bollweevil / Patria Jacobs @ Spaceland (Free)
Wilson Phillips @ Club Nokia ($42 - $52)
Backstreet Boys @ Hollywood Palladium ($50)
Pedestrian Deposit / Wet Hair / Wounded Lion / Peaking Lights / Temptation @ the Smell
Spiritvine @ Hotel Café

Jason Bentley Named Music Director at KCRW


This morning on KCRW, Nic Harcourt broke the news that Jason Bentley would be his successor as Music Director and host of Morning Becomes Eclectic. Will this mean that the female singer-songwriters on the show will be replaced by Jazzanova and Ubiquity tracks?

Friday, November 14, 2008

Photos of The Secret Machines at Spaceland






Due to smoke machines and a bit of a shaky hand, these photos didn't really come out that well. Believe it or not, this was the Secret Machines light show at Spaceland. It was one of the coolest lighting setups I've seen for a club tour. They were loud as hell too....

Thursday, November 13, 2008

Sinking Radio - Pavement's "Harness Your Hopes"


Here's my weekly reminder to tune in to Sinking Radio with Sylvia, Todd and Matt Dwyer on Little Radio Friday from Noon to 2:00 PM. I think Todd's still out on tour with Herman Dune, but it's Matt's birthday, so the mood should be jovial.

Each week on the show, they feature an official You Set the Scene pick. My pick for tomorrow's show is Pavement's "Harness Your Hopes." The song was originally released as a B-side to "Spit on a Stranger" in 1999, but dates back to the Brighten the Corner sessions. I picked the track because it's featured on Matador's reissue of Pavement's Brighten the Corners (Nicene Creedence Edition) due December 9th. 

This is the fourth Pavement album to get the deluxe reissue treatment from Matador and like the other three, it's well worth picking up. Nobody hates re-buying records more than I, but Matador's does such a fantastic job, I can't resist.  This time around they've remastered the studio album (my third favorite Pavement record) and added 32 bonus tracks. 

Amongst the bonus tracks are a lot of b-sides (most of which are new to me, because I didn't buy a lot of CD singles back in the day), some super high quality radio sessions and four cover songs. While the "Killing Moon" cover has gotten a lot of play over the years, the Clean, Faust and Fall covers are a bit more obscure. This collection reminded me how much I prefer the playful, fun Malkmus over the recent guitar god Malkmus. It's pretty priceless during the Faust cover when he says, "Break into Stereolab."

If I haven't convinced you yet, Matador's throwing an added bonus into the mix. When you order the reissue through their Buy Now Get Early program, you get a vinyl LP of an unreleased live show from the era. Pretty, pretty good. Since Amoeba doesn't seem to take part in the program, you might have to order online through Insound. Use this link, and I get a little money.   

Tune in tomorrow for Sinking Radio. And if you're a Pavement fan, pick this up.....

Recently Announced Live Music Events

Will Sheff of Okkervil River


Will Sheff / The Tallest Man on Earth / Bird of Youth @ Masonic Lodge at Hollywood Forever on 12/20/08 (on sale now at Ticketweb)

Fruit Bats @ the Echo on 2/3/09 (on sale now at Frontgate tickets)

Relentless Seven [Ben Harper’s new band] @ Spaceland on 12/4/08 (on sale now at Ticketweb)

Friendly Fires @ Spaceland on 12/7/08 (on sale now at Ticketweb)

Kool Keith, Dr. Octogon vs. Dr. Dooom @ El Rey on 2/27/09 (on sale Thursday)

Jimmy Eat World perform Clarity @ Club Nokia on 3/5/09 (on sale Saturday)

Cut Copy / Matt & Kim @ The Fonda on 3/10/09 & 3/11/09 (on sale Thursday)

Stagecoach @ Empire Polo Field in Indo on 4/24/09 & 4/25/09 (on sale Friday)

Fountains of Wayne acoustic @ Largo on 1/21/09 & 1/22/09 (call the club)

Stevie Wonder @ Nokia Live on 12/13/08 (presale starts Saturday - password = TOYS)

Wednesday, November 12, 2008

New Music Releases - 11/11/08


We're getting to that weird pre-Christmas, slow release schedule. Mostly reissues and major pop releases this time of the year. While the music snobs are most interested in the new Love Is All record, I will once again recommend The Henry Clay People (which came out nationally last week). I'm pretty afraifd of The Flaming Lips' Christmas On Mars....

New Music Releases 11/11/08:

Local Releases:
The Bronx: Bronx III (White Drugs) – Off the major label and doing their own thing now. They’re a good band, but I haven’t heard this new onAt the Echo on 12/5/08

The Henry Clay People: For Cheap or For Free (Autumn Tone) – Read my review of this record from 10/3/08. I totally slept on the fact that it came out last week. It’s one of my most listened to records of the year. Recommended.
See them live at the Echoplex on 11/18/08 or at Spaceland on 12/31/08
Order direct from the label HERE
MP3: Something in the Water
MP3: Working Part Time

Spindrift: The West (Beat Records) – Haven’t heard it yet. At Amoeba Hollywood on 11/18/08
MP3: The New West

Other Noteworthy Releases:
Christina Aquilera - greatest hits
David Archuleta - American Idol runner-up
Burial – DJ Kicks
Tracy Chapman
Danielson – retrospective; MP3: Animal in Every Corner (version of lil restraint) – At the Troubadour on 11/15/08
Enya
The Flaming Lips – Christmas on Mars DVD
Free Blood
Charlie Haden
Larsen
Longwave – At the Troubadour on 12/10/08
Love Is All – At the Echo on 11/16/08
The Nerves – compilation
New Order – five reissues
Ocean
Pig Destroyer
Pillbugs
The Postmarks – cover album
Seal
The Smiths – greatest hits
Taylor Swift
T-Pain
Various Artists – Brushfire label Christmas comp
Vetiver – covers EP
Wintersleep – At the Troubadour on 11/19/08
Denison Witmer
Zack and Miri – soundtrack

Win Tickets to See Torche at Spaceland

I've got a few pairs of tickets to give away to see Torche this Saturday at Spaceland. Opening the show will be Black Cobra and Clouds. Torche's new to me, but I heard they blew the doors off the Echoplex recently when they opened for Boris. Plus I've always had a soft spot for melodic, anthemic metal (I did grow up in the Midwest). All Music Guide gave their most recent album, Meanderthal four and 1/2 out of five stars.

If you like the Hydra Head type of metal, this is a must see show. I predict much alcohol will be consumed (win these tickets so you can afford more)....

Don't forget your earplugs.

To win these tickets, email me [dukeufo at gmail] with the name of your favorite metal band of all time. The contest closes Friday at noon. Please put "Torche" in the subject line.

Tuesday, November 11, 2008

Win Tickets to See the Breeders


I've got some tickets to give away for The Breeders show this coming Monday (November 17th) at the Wiltern. Opening the show will be The Muslims and Whispertown 2000. The Breeders are touring in support of their recent album, Mountain Battles.
To win these tickets email me [dukeufo at gmail] with the name of your favorite Breeders' song. The contest closes Thursday night at 6:00 PM. Please put "Breeders" in the subject line.
Buy Tickets HERE (you can get a four pack for $10 each)

Fol Chen Signs to Asthmatic Kitty


Big news from local band Fol Chen. They've recently signed with Asthmatic Kitty Records where they'll be labelmates with bands like Sufjan Stevens, My Brightest Diamond and Castanets. Be on the lookout for their AK debut, Part 1: John Shade, Your Fortune's Made on February 3, 2009.

You can see Fol Chen do a sound installation live at the LA County Museum of Art on 11/15/08. They'll be playing a more (presumably) traditional show at the Echo on 11/18/08.

Congrats guys....

MP3: Cable TV

photo credit: Juliana Paciulli

Monday, November 10, 2008

New Music Releases - 11/4/08


I'm still a week behind, but threatening to close the gap....
New Music Releases 11/4/08:

Records I’ve Heard:

Lou Reed: Berlin – Live at St. Ann’s (Matador) – This is from the 2006 string of concerts that were filmed by Julian Schnabel and released on DVD. The DVD is still sitting on top of my DVD waiting to be watched. Berlin was the follow-up to Reed’s excellent album, Transformer. Apparently it flopped both commercially and with the critics. Some of these songs have been performed over the years, but this was the first time they were performed in their entirety. Both the studio and live document are pretty depressing records, but they’re definitely worth a listen for the fans. Antony from Antony and the Johnsons makes a guest appearance on “Candy Says.”

Local Releases:
Crystal Antlers: EP (Touch & Go) – Vinyl version
Eulogies: Tempted to Do Nothing EP (Dangerbird) – Vinyl version. Featuring a duet with Nikki from SSPU
Little Joy: Little Joy (Rough Trade) – This is the much blogged about new album from Strokes’ drummer Fab Morretti, girlfriend/singer Binki Shapiro and singer/guitarist Rodrigo Amarante (from Brazilian band, Los Hermanos). I might not go as far as calling it essential listening, but it’s pretty good. The more upbeat tunes sound like the Strokes on vacation in Brazil in the early 1960s. While the tracks with Binki singing don’t sound like that at all. They’re named after the dive bar in Echo Park. Live at the Troubadour on 12/7/08
Megapuss: Surfing (Vapor) – The joke-y side project from Devendra Banhart and Gregory Rogove from Priestbird. The only track I’ve listened to “Adam and Steve” steals a guitar lick from Wham and mentions a “tropical taint.”

Other Noteworthy Releases:
Drew Andrews
Black Moth Super Rainbow – EP
Black President – At the Knitting Factory on 12/6/08
Desolation Wilderness
Grampall Jookabox – At the Silverlake Lounge on 11/11/08. MP3: This Girl Ain’t Preggers
Hushpuppies
Frida Hyvonen
Illa J
Johann Johannsson – MP3: The Rocket Builder
The Lucksmiths
Lukestar
The Mighty Super Funk – rare funk singles compilation
Cale Parks
Past Lives – EP
Q-Tip – At the House of Blues Sunset on 11/15/08
Shiny Toy Guns
The Skeletons
The So So Glos – At Crane’s Tavern on 11/17/08
Mavis Staples – live
Travis – At the Troubadour on 11/11/08
Wallpaper
Wild Beasts
Wilderness – MP3: Strand the Test of Time
Wino – compilation - MP3: Dutch Oven
James Yorkston - I tend to like this guy, but haven't heard any of it yet....

Nic Harcourt Steps Down as Music Director at KCRW


I got the press release early this morning, and now I've read about 10 other local writers weigh in on it...

After ten years, Nic Harcourt's stepping down as Music Director/Host of Morning Becomes Eclectic on KCRW. Some people are writing celebratory/good riddance postings while others are just reporting the facts (and letting their readers make the comments). In the press release, Harcourt takes credit for helping break Coldplay, Norah Jones, Damien Rice and Dido.

The LA Times called Harcourt during his program today and Harcourt hinted that his low, public radio pay was the main driver for stepping down. I couldn't find KCRW's most recent financial statements online, but if Charity Navigator is to be believed, Harcourt pocketed $117,958 in the year ending 6/06. Not great, but not bad either - especially given the exposure he's gotten to do voice over work (Land Rover) and Music Supervisor work (he probably matched that annual salary on a big studio film like Dukes of Hazzard).

I still tune in for Harcourt's studio guests, but don't regularly listen to the first two hours of his show. When I look at his playlists, I like about 20-25% of the stuff he plays. To his credit, he's been a good supporter of local music. After ten years, it feels like the kind of departure that will be best for both parties.

Surprisingly, nobody from the station has called me yet to inquire about my availability to replace him.....

Live Music Options 11/10/08 - 11/16/08 - Dungen Giveaway


I’ve got a few pairs of tickets to give away for the Dungen / Women show this Wednesday night at the Echo. I’m a big fan of Dungen’s records and a lot of bloggers have been praising Women. To win tickets, email me [dukeufo at gmail] with the name of your favorite Swedish company. The contest closes Wednesday at Noon.

Monday 11/10/08
[Recommended] The King Khan & BBQ Show / The Dutchess and the Duke / The Flash Express @ the Echo ($12) – I hear King Khan puts on a great show, although I haven’t seen him yet.
Beck / Jay Reatard @ Club Nokia ($45) – Anybody been to the new Club Nokia yet?
Mike Stinson / Dave Gleason @ Redwood Bar & Grill – Great local country lineup.
The Monolators / 60wattkid / Health Club / Manhattan Murder Mystery @ Pehrspace – The Monolators residency continues.
MP3: Don’t Dance
The Western States Motel / Marching Band / The Cartographers / The Boxing Lesson @ Spaceland (Free) – The dual residency featuring The Western States Motel & Marching Band continues.
WSM’s MP3: Oh World
Vic Chesnutt / Elf Power @ Echoplex ($14) – I’ve seen both of these performers before.
His Orchestra / Grace Woodroofe / Gods Gang / An Horse / Alaskan Summer @ Silverlake Lounge (Free)
Tom Mcrae / Steve Reynolds @ Hotel Café
The Henry Clay People / Francisco the Man @ Detroit Bar – If you’re reluctant to drive down to Costa Mesa, the Henry Clay People are playing the Echoplex next Tuesday.
Resident Hall @ Troubadour ($8)
John Hiatt @ House of Blues Sunset
At Demonhead / The Miles Approach / Danger Bees @ All Star Lanes

Tuesday 11/11/08
[Recommended] Earlimart / Afternoons / Red Cortez / Dazzler (Free for 21 & Up / $7 under 21) – The Indie 103 night was a casualty of the new owners of the Viper Room, so they’ve moved it to Tuesday nights at the Echoplex. The first two lineups are well worth checking out. Red Cortez is the band f/k/a Weather Underground.
Bishop Allen / An Horse / Electric Owls / The One AM Radio @ The Echo ($12)
Method Man & Redman with Evidence & Alchemist and Termanology @ House of Blues Sunset ($25)
Spindrift @ The Roxy ($10) – Record release party
Kaiser Chiefs / Hockey @ The Fonda ($26)
Grampall Jookabox / Death to Fresh / Kid Moxie / Brandon Mayer & the Hidden Powers / Chris Robley @ Silverlake Lounge ($8)
Pit Er Pat / Lucky Dragons / Hecuba / PALMS @ The Smell ($5)
Travis @ Troubadour (Sold Out)
Copeland / Lovedrug @ El Rey ($17)
Rickie Lee Jones @ Largo ($30)
Talk to Angels / Rami Dearest / Two Guns @ Spaceland ($12)
The Soul of John Black @ Hotel Café
Mudvayne @ the Wiltern

Wednesday 11/12/08
[Recommended] Dungen / Women / Life on Earth @ the Echo ($14) – I’ve got some tickets to give away for this one, so look up above for details.
Club NME: The Entrance Band / The Growlers / Golden Animals @ Spaceland ($12) – I finally saw the Entrance Band a couple of weeks back. They’ve got a good following.
The (International) Noise Conspiracy / Night Horse @ El Cid ($8) – Small venue for these bands. Lupe Fiasco / Hey Champ @ Club Nokia ($35)
Crooked Fingers / Port O’Brien / Sarah Jaffe @ Troubadour ($12)
Jonatha Brooke / Glen Phillips @ Largo
Grace Potter and the Nocturnals / Phonograph / Ezra Furman and the Harpoons @ the Roxy ($13.50)
Low End Theory: Blank Blue / Damon Aaron @ Airliner
The Health Club / Cobra Lilies @ Mr. T’s Bowl Adam Stephens / Frank Fairfield / Evan Way @ Tangier ($10)
Live Grenades / Little Red Radio @ Bordello ($8)
The Atma / Ivy Walls / Depreciation Guild @ Silverlake Lounge ($8)
Stab City @ Redwood Bar & Grill
Fastball @ Viper Room ($15)
Restavrant / Line and Circle @ Three of Clubs

Thursday 11/13/08
And You Will Know Us By the Trail of Dead / Useless Keys @ the Echo ($12) – I haven’t seen them for years, but they used to put on a pretty great live show.
Jason Isbell @ The Mint ($15) – Presented by Aquarium Drunkard, so hit him up for tickets.
West Indian Girl / Mere Mortals / Klum / Mondo Domingo @ Spaceland ($12) – West Indian Girl continue their Thursday night residency. I heard it was packed last week.
John Doe / Kathleen Edwards @ El Rey ($22)
Death to Anders / Low Redland / Thailand / The Frontier Brothers @ Silverlake Lounge ($8)
Legendary Pink Dots @ Knitting Factory ($16)
Robyn Hitchcock “I Often Dream of Trains” @ Largo
Alanis Morrisette @ Orpheum
Taking Back Sunday / The (Intl.) Noise Conspiracy @ Club Nokia ($28.50)
John Hodgman & Jonathan Coulton @ Echoplex ($27 – includes copy of book)
Alice Russell / Jesca Hoop @ Hotel Café
The Younger Lovers / CROCODILES / The Caldonias / PROTECT ME / Meho Plaza @ the Smell ($5)
Ludo @ Troubadour ($14)
Joe Satriani / Leslie West @ The Wiltern
Artichoke / Marvelous Toy @ Hyperion Tavern

Friday 11/14/08
[Recommended] The Little Ones / What Made Milwaukee Famous / Other Lives @ The Echo ($10) – Good indie pop lineup. Other Lives impressed a lot of people last Friday at Spaceland and they've got some industry heavyweights behind them.
[Recommended] Jon Brion & Friends @ Largo – One set only
Dead Confederate / Apollo Sunshine @ Spaceland ($10) – Some pretty good buzz behinds these Southern rockers.
Deerhoof / Experimental Dental School / Kit @ Echoplex ($15)
Mudhoney / Japanese Motors / Model Actress @ El Rey ($25)
The (International) Noise Conspiracy @ Eagle Rock Arts Center (((eagle winged palace))) / Billygoat / John Thill @ Pehrspace
Alanis Morrisette @ Orpheum Mason Jennings @ The Fonda ($23.50)
The Bobs / Peter Mulvey @ McCabe’s ($24.50)
Fauna Valetta / The Tijuana Panthers / Spider Problem @ Redwood Bar & Grill
Vienna Noise Choir / The Skeletons / Nite Jewel @ The Smell ($5)
Tyrone Wells @ Troubadour ($17)
Ben Folds / Rocco Deluca @ the Wiltern ($32.50)
Motley Crue @ The Palladium ($86.50)
Uh Huh Her @ Avalon ($20)
Hello Vegas @ Viper Room ($5)

Saturday 11/15/08
[Recommended] Torche / Black Cobra / Clouds @ Spaceland ($10) – Torche’s new to me, but I’ve always had a soft spot for melodic, heavy music. I’ve got some tickets to give away for this, so check back in for details.
2K Sports Bounce Tour: Q-Tip / The Knux / Pacific Division @ House of Blues Sunset ($30)
Danielson / Cryptacize / Soul Junk @ Troubadour ($12)
Gang Gang Dance / Marnie Stern @ El Rey ($19)
Adult. / Pop Noir @ Echoplex ($12)
Minibosses / Sweetbleeders / Totally Radd!! / Land Before Time @ the Smell ($5)
Calle 13 / Kinky @ Club Nokia ($33 - $53)
Melissa Ferrick / Andrew Ripp @ Largo
Miles Benjamin Anthony Robinson / The Castanets @ McCabe’s ($12.50)
Dorian Wood / Marc Manning / Red Maids / Mooey Moobau @ Pehrspace
Aaron Beaumont / The Brendan Hines @ Hotel Café
B Foundation / Dirty Heads / The Pricks / Meet Me at the Pub @ the Roxy
OneRepublic / The Spill Canvas / Augustana / The Hush Sound ($31.50)

Sunday 11/16/08
Part Time Punks Festival: A Certain Ratio / Pylon / Love Is All / Medium Medium / Savage Republic / The Nightingales / Nervous Gender / Vivian Girls / Ariel Pink’s Haunted Graffiti / Warpaint / NoDzzz / The Urinals / Wild Stares / The Muslims / Magic Bullets / Grimble Grumble / Softboiled Eggies / Mika Miko @ The Echo & Echoplex ($20) – Starts at 2:00 PM. Pretty huge lineup. [Recommended] Charlie Wadhams / Opa Cupa @ Tangier ($7)
The Savages / Tigers Can Bite You / The Easy Marks / The New Centuries @ Knitting Factory Alterknit ($7)
A Cursive Memory @ Troubadour ($12)
Minus the Bear / Annuals @ the Fonda ($20)
The B-52’s / The 88 @ Club Nokia ($45 - $55)
Blues Traveler @ House of Blues Sunset ($22.50)
Martin Simpson @ McCabe’s ($22.50)
Mexican Institute of Sound @ the Roxy

Thursday, November 06, 2008

New Music Releases - 10/28/08


Of what I’ve heard, the School of Seven Bells is my favorite. But the music snobs are loving the new Deerhunter. I haven’t listened to the whole thing yet, but what I’ve heard sounds like a big progression over the hit-or-miss Cryptograms. Crystal Stilts and Cause Co-Motion! are turning on the indie snobs too.

New Music Releases 10/28/08

Records I’ve Heard:
Ryan Adams & the Cardinals: Cardinology (Lost Highway) – I’m still a big fan of Adams’ Heartbreaker. This one’s pretty cohesive but felt a little too mid-tempo and polished to really move me. It’s getting pretty good reviews though, so fans should give it a listen. At the Staples Center on 12/4/08

It’s a Musical: Music Makes Me Sick (Morr Music) – Guitar-less indie pop from Berlin (but sung in English of course). The All Music Guide compares it to early Mates of State, but it’s not quite that manic.
MP3: Bad Day

O’Death: Broken Hymns, Limbs and Skin (Kemado) – The give themselves that goth/country/punk label. File them in that ever expanding category of bands with pretty good music, but with a singer that I can’t listen to. At Spaceland on 11/22/08
MP3: Lowtide

School of Seven Bells: Alpinisms (Ghostly) – Dream-pop that’s rooted in classic 4AD with propulsive electronic beats, hints of kraut rock and a Middle Eastern vibe. It’s accomplished and cohesive and recommended if you’re into that sort of thing at all. The band features Ben Curtis (ex-Secret Machines) and the Deheza sisters (ex-On!Air!Library!). At the Fonda on 11/29/08
MP3: Connjur

Local Releases:
The 88: Not Only…But Also (Island) – They got the major label makeover – parted ways with early members, ditched the business suits, got haircuts and hired very expensive producers (Babyface and Matt Wallace). I haven’t heard it yet, so I don’t know if it’s an improvement or not. At Club Nokia on 11/16/08

Other Noteworthy Releases:
Dave Alvin – Best of – At Largo on 11/8/08
Bloc Party – At Club Nokia on 12/10/08
Cause Co-Motion! – singles and EPs
Cobra Verde
Juliette Commagere
Ry Cooder – anthology
Crystal Stilts
The Cure
The Darling Downs
Deerhunter – At El Rey on 11/25/08
DJ Babu
Eagles of Death Metal
Tom Gabel
Merle Haggard – Live from 1978
Waylon Jennings – Live from 1984
Kaiser Chiefs – At the Fonda on 11/11/08
Lady Gaga – At the Nokia on 11/26/08
John Legend
Jesse Malin – covers album
No-Neck Blues Band
Marykate O’Neil
Pink
Rodrigo y Gabriela – two disc live album
Arthur Russell – unreleased tracks
Snow Patrol
Squarepusher
Starflyer 59
Hunter S. Thompson – Gonzo tapes box set
Hank Williams – unreleased box set
John Zorn

Recently Announced Live Shows


Stagecoach: Brad Paisley / Reba McEntire / Little Big Town / Charlie Daniels Band / Darius Rucker / Earl Scruggs / Chris Cagle / Reverend Horton Heat / Lynn Anderson / Doyle Lawson / Danielle Peck / Waddie Mitchell / Hot Club of Cowtown @ Empire Polo Fields in Indio on 4/25/09 (tickets on sale Friday 11/14/08)

Stagecoach: Kenny Chesney / Kid Rock / Miranda Lambert / Poco / Lady Antebellum / Jerry Jeff Walker / Ricky Skaggs / Ralph Stanley / Peter Rowan Bluegrass Band / Dale Watson / Zac Brown Band / The Duhks / Randy Houser / James Intveld @ Empire Polo Fields in Indio on 4/26/09 (tickets on sale Friday 11/14/08)
Rachel Fuller in the Attic with Pete Townshend and friends @ the Troubadour on 11/7/08 (tickets on sale today at 1:00 PM - and they're $100 each)

Animal Collective @ the Fonda on 1/23/09 (tickets on sale soon)

Stella @ Orpheum on 12/13/08 (on sale Saturday)

NOFX @ The Fonda on 2/6/09 & 2/8/09 (on sale now)

Little Joy @ the Troubadour on 12/7/08 (on sale now)

Glasvegas @ The Troubadour on 1/14/09 (on sale now)

The Bronx / Crystal Antlers @ the Echo on 12/5/08 (on sale now at Ticketweb)

Rodriguez @ the Echo on 11/21/08 (on sale now at Ticketweb)

Kid Sister @ The Echoplex on 1/29/09 (on sale now at Ticketweb)

Darker My Love @ the Echoplex on 12/19/08 (on sale now at Ticketweb)

Aretha Franklin @ House of Blues Sunset on 11/21/08 & 11/22/08 (on sale now)

Stone Temple Pilots @ Club Nokia on 12/31/08 (presale begins Friday at 10:00 AM - password = KROQPILOT; otherwise Saturday at 10:00 AM)

Pennywise @ Hollywood Palladium on 1/16/09 (presale begins Friday at 10:00 AM - password = KROQBROHYMN; otherwise Saturday at 10:00 AM)

Wednesday, November 05, 2008

Ticket Giveaway - The Dodos at the Echoplex


UPDATE - WINNERS HAVE BEEN NOTIFIED - THANKS TO ALL WHO ENTERED - RADIO FREE SILVER LAKE IS GIVING AWAY TICKETS TOO

I've got three pairs of tickets to give away for The Dodos show this Saturday at the Echoplex. Opening the show will be Restaurant and Dreamdate.
If you haven't heard the Dodos yet, I strongly encourage you to click on that MP3 below. They combine a folky, acoustic guitar sound with propulsive drums earning them the psych folk label and comparisons to Animal Collective. It's a bit more accessible than AC.
To win these tickets email me [dukeufo at gmail] with the name of your favorite bird. The contest closes Friday at Noon. Please put "Dodos" in the subject line.
Read an LA Record interview with the band
Buy tickets for the Echoplex