Tuesday, July 14, 2009

So Insane



I've officially decided that Discovery's LP will be top 10 albums of 2009, if not top 5. The side project of Ra Ra Riot's Wes Miles and Vampire Weekend's Rostam Batmanglij is so deliciously poppy that there's no reason to turn it off. From a MJ cover (RIP) to the brilliant opener "Osaka Loop Line", these two boys have produced a unique conglomerate of nostalgic funk and ultramodern electronic. This is the soundtrack to the summer, ladies and gentleman - 100% guaranteed. I sure hope that this Discovery project isn't a one time deal because all I want is more.

Check out some tunes below on this nifty player, and links to buy the album are below. Trust me, you will not be disappointed!



Buy on iTunes or at Amazon immediately.

Sunday, March 9, 2008

The Stills - "Yesterday Never Tomorrows"

My looks pushed too far, I'll get wrecked in some bar
I've lost it, my foot's on a nail
The dark winter snows bright, please stay here tonight
I'll cry my face straight through my pillow
Some things last forever, why can't this last forever
Nothing lasts forever, I hope this lasts forever

I had to get out of my head this weekend, or so that's what I figured out on Saturday night. The past few days have been emotionally draining, trying to be one person for someone and another for someone else, never fully realizing who I should be for myself. It's a very strange experience to see your parents as real people, perhaps even more flawed than you are yourself. As much as I tried to pretend I wasn't part of my family growing up, there's no denying I'm a product of my parents. Now, for the first time, I'm scared of what that might mean.

I almost cracked Friday night, when silence was deafening and my thoughts took over my entire body until I could hold in anymore, resulting in a vicious regurgitation that even I wasn't allowed to control. After a lot of hesitation and fear, I made my way out of my apartment and downtown to Bowery for Ra Ra Riot. It was pouring with rain, which helped me hide within the masses of people out and about. It didn't take long for me to get lost in their music, a familiar sound and safe freedom. I forgot what it felt like to have energy on stage pour out on a control, but the band proved they could do it for the umpteenth time. By the show's end I had my fist pumping and hands clapping. I stayed out until 4 a.m. that night. I hadn't done that in years.

The rain continued into Saturday. I didn't want Pat to go back to Staten Island but we both had things on our to do list that day. Again I was alone in my thoughts, running across town while my sneakers became sopping wet. I removed myself from my apartment and reality again that night, heading to a familiar site of my past that only made me realize how much I have changed. Maybe I haven't even really changed, just realized where I do and do not fit in. It was a nice refresher, almost like that puff of the cigarette on Friday night too. Sometimes you have to remind yourself how bad things really are. Katie and I made our way to Bowery for The Stills, and although I couldn't physically make it through the whole show, hearing songs off my beloved Logic Will Break Your Heart was enough.

I forgot how much I love that album; I've been listening to it all day today. It's strange to think that was five years ago, and how much I wish I could go back to that time. Life felt much easier then.

Friday, March 7, 2008

Ra Ra Riot Tour


If you don't have tickets to tonight's sold out show at Bowery Ballroom, don't fret! Ra Ra Riot is hitting the road with a vengeance. Kicking off their two month plus tour tonight, the rowdy sextet will play six (!) shows at next week's SXSW and then opening for The Cribs for a bit before a national tour with the equally enjoyable The Little Ones. If you've seen the band as many times as I have, there's still reasons to come back for more. Not only are they one of the best live bands out today, but they will also be showcasing brand spanking new tunes off their upcoming full-length. Can't wait!

Tour dates below...

3/7/08 – New York, NY @ Bowery Ballroom – SOLD OUT

3/12/08 – Austin, TX @ Austin Conference Center/Day Stage

3/12/08 – Austin, TX @ Ms. Bea’s/Todd P Party

3/13/08 – Austin, TX @ Emo’s/Canvas Media+The Onion Day Party

3/14/08 – Austin, TX @ Emo’s Annex/Soundcheck Day Party

3/15/08 – Austin, TX @ Emo’s Annex/Park The Van-Daytrotter Showcase

3/15/08 – Austin, TX @ Saengerrunde Hall/Diesel Party

3/17/08 – Athens, GA @ 40 Watt Club *

3/18/08 – Greenville, NC @ Spazzatorium Galleria *

3/19/08 – Washington, DC @ Black Cat *

3/22/08 – Philadelphia, PA @ North Star Bar *

3/23/08 – Cleveland, OH @ Grog Shop *

3/24/08 – Bowling Green, OH @ Howard’s

3/25/08 – Chicago, IL @ Double Door *

3/26/08 – Minneapolis, MN @ Varsity Theatre *

3/28/08 – Denver, CO @ Larimer Lounge *

3/31/08 – Seattle, WA @ Chop Suey *

4/2/08 – Portland, OR @ Doug Fir Lounge *

4/3/08 – San Francisco, CA @ Popscene *

4/4/08 – Los Angeles, CA @ El Rey Theatre *

4/5/08 – San Diego, CA @ The Casbah #

4/6/08 – Phoenix, AZ @ Modified #

4/9/08 – Norman, OK @ Opolis #

4/10/08 – Ft. Worth, TX @ Lola’s #

4/11/08 – Austin, TX @ Stubb’s #

4/12/08 – Baton Rouge, LA @ Spanish Moon #

4/13/08 - Atlanta, GA @ TBA #

4/14/08 – Orlando, FL @ The Social #

4/15/08 – Gainesville, FL @ Common Grounds #

4/16/08 – Jacksonville, FL @ Jaxx #

4/18/08 – Charleston, SC @ Map Room #

4/20/08 – Chapel Hill, NC @ Local 506 #

4/22/08 – Baltimore, MD @ Ottobar #

4/23/08 – Hoboken, NJ @ Maxwell’s #

4/25/08 – Cambridge, MA @ Middle East Downstairs #

4/28/08 – Pittsburgh, PA @ Garfield Artworks #

4/29/08 – Columbus, OH @ The Basement #

4/30/08 – Cincinnati, OH @ The Gypsy Hut #

5/2/08 – Toledo, OH @ Frankie’s #

5/3/08 – Detroit, MI @ Alvin’s #

5/4/08 - Milwaukee, WI @ TBA #

5/7/08 - Omaha, NE @ Slowdown #

5/8/08 – Lawrence, KS @ Jackpot Saloon #

5/10/08 – Salt Lake City, UT @ Kilby Court #

5/16/08 – Pomona, CA @ Glass House #

* w/ The Cribs

# w/ The Little Ones

Wednesday, February 27, 2008

Ra Ra Riot | WOXY Lounge Act



Are you going to see Ra Ra Riot headline Bowery on March 7? I am so excited to see this band rule the stage, in what is bound to be a fantastic show debuting a number of new tunes off of their upcoming full-length. It may be sold out already, but I bet if you get there that night, you could get in. But don't quote me on that.

The band took over the wonderful WOXY a couple weeks ago, and their blog, The Futurist, has just posted a number of tracks, and another very cool video. Definitely worth checking out.




woxy.com presents Ra Ra Riot from Soft City Lights on Vimeo.

Wednesday, January 9, 2008

Upcoming WOXY Lounge Acts

I just squealed in glee.

This Thursday, January 10th - Jukebox The Ghost 2:00
This Friday, January 11th - The Muggabears 1:00
Wednesday January 16th - Mason Proper 3:00
Wednesday January 30th - Ra Ra Riot (special evening session) 7:30

www.woxy.com

Friday, December 21, 2007

Underrated's Top Twenty Albums Of 2007

It was an interesting year. I always am keen to the discovery of new music, which is why most of my top albums are debuts from unsigned or relatively new bands. There's nothing like that first try, and when succeeded, it will always be how they will be remembered. So without further adieu, my top 20 albums of the year, with a brief one-sentence recap, and a zip file of a selected track from each album below. See you in '08!

01. Port O’Brien – The Wind And The Swell
Never have I had such a visceral reaction to an album, where its lo-fi screams and yelps from start to finish prove this young band has so much more to give.

02. Radiohead – In Rainbows
A combination of its execution and actual sound, Radiohead's latest album marks revolution in the music and its most melodic effort to date.

03. White Rabbits – Fort Nightly
A late-night booze brawl, complete with a piano and dueling guitars, is what best defines White Rabbit’s debut Fort Nightly—the strong debut from this clean-cut six piece teeters between innocence and mystery with the slight tweak of a minor chord.

04. Ra Ra Riot – Ra Ra Riot EP
Ra Ra Riot's long awaited EP breathes new life into a sound that is attempted upon by so many bands, but never sounds as polished as each song this rowdy six-piece creates.

05. Tim Williams – When Work Is Done
Confidence shouldn't be a worry for this young troubadour, as his second effort is as thoughtful and honest as his previous one, but for the first time the songs are full of hopeful resolution.

06. Arcade Fire – Neon Bible
An orchestra masterpiece from beginning to end, Arcade Fire prove once again why they have become one of the more important acts of our generation.

07. Kate Nash – Made Of Bricks
The quick witted Nash brings a dark side to pop music, seamlessly combining cocky lyrics with playful tunes.

08. Jens Lekman – Night Falls Over Kortedala
Thanks to Pat, this album demanded repeat listens, as Lekman delves deeper into story-telling arrangements with his classic vocals.

09. Tegan And Sara – The Con
Pure pop perfection from start to finish, the Canadian twins do it again with their more complex and rash fifth album

10. A Brief Smile – Now We All Have Horns
This band never ceases to amaze me, as they seem to have found their stride—and epic sound—on their self-produced and self-released LP

Best Of The Rest:
11. Amy Winehouse – Back To Black
12. Spoon – Ga Ga Ga Ga
13. Georgie James – Places
14. Kanye West – Graduation
15. Wakey!Wakey – Silent As A Movie
16. Ryan Adams – Easy, Tiger
17. Los Campesinos! – Sticking Fingers Into Sockets
18. Coconut Records – Nighttiming
19. Interpol – Our Love To Admire
20. The Shins – Wincing The Night Away

DOWNLOAD: Underrated Top Twenty Albums Of 2007 [zip]

Thursday, December 20, 2007

Underrated's Top Twenty Songs Of 2007

I have had this list decided upon for some time now, but the thought of rehashing every detail about why these songs are great didn't seem worth anyone's time. In the end, they are good songs and deserve a listen, so I attempted at one-liner summations. Instead of featuring an MP3 for each song, I gave them all the merit they deserve, by providing a zip file at the end. Enjoy!

01. Jukebox The Ghost – Good Day
Yes, its true—every time I listen to this song, I seem to automatically have a good day.

02. Ingrid Michaelson – The Way I Am
Old Navy sweaters or not, Michaelson's sweet romantic song is cozy enough for repeat listens.

03. Mika – Grace Kelly
I had a bit of an obsession with this song when it first came out, and for good reason—the Freddy Mercury-esque stylings of Mika are both nostalgic and impressive

04. Rhianna – Umbrella
Any time you can get "ella ella ella" stuck in your head for all of eternity is a success in my book.

05. Wakey!Wakey! – Clinton Street Girl
I was one block away from pretending this song was about me, but nonetheless its a heart-on-your sleeves tune and ode to the greatest neighborhood of New York.

06. Feist – 1, 2, 3, 4
I don't think there is anyone in the whole world—thanks in part to Apple—that didn't fall in love with this playful ditty.

07. Justice – D.A.N.C.E.
Bringing in the best of old and new dance techniques, Justice's song complemented the mainstream fans and hipsters alike.

08. Kaiser Chiefs – Ruby
This chorus became part of my regular vocabulary for a long time.

09. Ra Ra Riot – Suspended In Gaffa
For some reason, this Kate Bush cover became an immediate favorite—highlighting singer Wesley Miles' impressive falsetto and the stomping orchestral talents of this young band.

10. Vampire Weekend – Oxford Comma
For a band who has jumped into the limelight so quickly, this song shows exactly that reason why.

11. Fujia & Miyagi – Collarbone
I heard this song having no idea who it was, and yet sung it in my head for months afterwards...try sitting still, I dare you.

12. M.I.A. – Paper Planes
I'm not totally sold on Kala, but this powerful and innovative dance number makes the whole disc worthwhile...gun shots and all.

13. Sia – The Girl You Lost To Cocaine
Sia's back with a vengeance with one of the tracks off her impressive new disc, a favorite to belt out when no one else is around.

14. Rilo Kiley – The Moneymaker
I wasn't keen on this side of Miss Jenny Lewis until I saw her perform it live—she owns up to every purr and rasp on the risky tune.

15. Architecture In Helsinki – Heart It Races
Thanks to Pat, I was introduced to this highly intoxicating number, where a simple "bum" will get you moving.

16. Tim Fite – It’s All Right Here
As someone who isn't a fan of hip hop, I have to say I'm quite taken by Mr. Tim Fite and his sarcastic rhymes.

17. The Diggs – Careen
Local boys the Diggs never cease to amaze me, especially in this emotional track off their upcoming sophomore album.

18. Datarock – Fa Fa Fa Fa
There are certain songs I want to turn up really loud and dance like a maniac....this is one of them.

19. White Stripes – Icky Thump
The album wasn't the best, but this track still shows that the White Stripes have something worth holding on for.

20. The Fratellis – Flat Head
There's a certain charm about Scottish boys and this song is quintessentially charming.

DOWNLOAD: Underrated Top Twenty Songs Of 2007 [zip]

Friday, November 16, 2007

Ra Ra Riot - Suspended In Gaffa | Shows

I am having an obsessive addiction to Ra Ra Riot's Kate Bush cover of "Suspended In Gaffa." I always loved the song like but when I downloaded their Daytrotter session last week, it seems like this song is all I want to listen to. First reaction? 100 times better than the original. This isn't the first Kate Bush cover, their popular "Hounds Of Love" cover is pretty fab as well, but for some reason every time I try and listen to some other artists, all I want to do is come back to "Gaffa." There's something about Wes' incredible falsettos and the oom-pah pah rhythm that makes me so happy. I've even resorted to writing emails just about the song.

In other Ra Ra Riot news, Pat and I will be driving down to Washington, D.C. to catch them and our other favorites, Jukebox The Ghost play at the Rock and Roll Hotel next next next Friday. And yes, I know that they are playing New York at Union Hall the next night, but why shouldn't I have a weekend full of two of my favorite bands? I'm sure Pat would like me to mention this was all my idea, but trust me—he's not complaining either. Tickets are still available for the Washington show (road trip!) but Union Hall is currently sold out. And even if you are going to both those shows, you should also make sure you take a trip to the John Pike Memorial Show featuring Vampire Weekend, Tokyo Police Club (and of course RRR) December 15 in Boston. More information on the show, or how to donate to the fund, can be found here.

And now, that tune that will make your Friday so much sweeter.

  • Ra Ra Riot - Suspended In Gaffa (via their Daytrotter Session)
  • Monday, October 1, 2007

    Ra Ra Riot - Dying Is Fine | Video

    This is beyond cool.


    Monday, August 20, 2007

    after the jump!

    I'm back! And more busy than ever. Oy, it never ends, right? Well one of these days I'll say I'll blog every day and actually mean it, although with the way my life is going these days I'm not sure when that will happen. But, of course, I'll try my best to keep you posted.

    London was wonderful and Pat survived the whole going to another country thingy. I always feel like I need a vacation after a vacation. It would be nice to have a couple days to do absolutely nothing. I didn't realize how much I missed my mom's cooking, so that was a definite plus. I wish I could get out there to see them more than I do, but again -- time is never on my side.



    But of course, I cannot let another day go by without letting you know all the details about the After The Jump Festival that is going down this Saturday, August 25 at Studio B in Brooklyn. It's been a busy couple months for a group of 22 of New York's bloggers and it's all coming down to Saturday night. Underrated favorites and my good friends Jukebox The Ghost and Ra Ra Riot will be playing the FREE daytime show, along with a slew of other great bands, so come on down. And stay late for the dance party. It's totally worth your $12 (which all goes to a good cause.)

    Set Times:
    FREE Day Show Schedule

    2:00 (MetroMix.com Stage) The Teenage Prayers
    2:30 (CONCERT.TV Stage) Jukebox The Ghost
    3:00 (MetroMix.com Stage) Locksley
    3:30 (CONCERT.TV Stage) Bling Kong
    4:00 (MetroMix.com Stage) Golem
    4:30 (
    CONCERT.TV Stage) Goes Cube
    5:00 (MetroMix.com Stage) Ra Ra Riot
    5:30 (
    CONCERT.TV Stage) Apache Beat
    6:00 (MetroMix.com Stage) Spectrum
    ------------------------------------------------

    MetroMix.com Night Stage
    Schedule:

    10:00 The Virgins
    11:00 Soulico
    Midnight Free Blood
    1:00 Riot In Belgium
    --
    Finger on the Pulse (DJ set)
    David Bruno (DJ set)

    Tickets:
    Again, the day show is FREE. Purchase tickets to the night portion
    of the event HERE.


    Raffle/Prizes:
    Chris over at Music Snobbery is keeping a running tally of all the awesome prizes wehave to raffle off at After the Jump, including TWO passes to the CMJ Music Marathon worth nearly $500 each! We also have a ton of CD prize packs, signed posters, t-shirts, and much more - so come and donate for your chance to win!

    Volunteer:
    Interested in donating your time to this event? Go HERE for more info.

    A HUGE thanks goes out to our Sponsors:

    - Cellfish Media
    Cellfish Media creates digital content for mobile phones and is helping to revolutionize the blogging community.

    -MetroMix.com.
    MetroMix is your one-stop local entertainment guide on where to go and what to do, from the hottest restaurants and bars, to the latest in events, music, movies, and more.

    - CONCERT.TV
    CONCERT.TV is the first television channel dedicated to live music by offering both cutting edge shows and past favorites

    - Indaba Music
    - Indaba Music is an international community of musicians, music professionals, and fans exploring the creative possibilities of making music with people in different places.

    - Imeem.
    Imeem is an online community where artists, fans & friends can promote their content, share their tastes, and discover new blogs, photos, music and video. Visit After the Jump on Imeem

    - CMJ
    CMJ Network connects music fans and music industry professionals with the best in new music through
    interactive media, live events and print.

    - Xanga.
    Xanga is a community of online diaries and journals

    - Colt 45.
    For over 4 decades, Colt 45 Premium Malt Liquor has been the "class of all malt liquor brands". With its smooth and distinct flavor and historic affiliation with Billy Dee Williams, it has become an urban American icon.

    Head on over to AfterTheJumpFest.com for interviews with the artists performing, and tons of more information. And see you on Saturday!!!

    Wednesday, July 18, 2007

    After The Jump Festival Lineup!

    After The Jump Fest | August 25, 2007 | Studio B


    [AFTER THE JUMP FEST]
    AUGUST 25, 2007
    STUDIO B (259 BANKER STREET)
    BROOKLYN, NEW YORK


    RIOT IN BELGIUM * SOULICO * THE VIRGINS * LES SANS CULOTTES * RA RA RIOT * LOCKSLEY * APACHE BEAT * GOES CUBE * JUKEBOX THE GHOST * BLING KONG * FINGER ON THE PULSE (DJ SET) * DAVID BRUNO (SLAP YOU IN PUBLIC) (DJ SET)
    * AND MORE TO BE ANNOUNCED!

    FREE DAY SHOW (OUTSIDE STUDIO B) NIGHT SHOW TICKETS ON SALE SOON


    All proceeds from the festival will help fund grants written by New York music teachers for their classroom via the Bloggers Choose chapter of DonorsChoose.org. Please join us in making a great day of music and a significant contribution to music education in our city.



    Monday, July 2, 2007

    Ra Ra Riot @ The Seaport | 6.29.07

    I was a bit nervous heading to the Seaport on Friday night. I wasn't sure what to expect. It was to be the first show since the unfortunate loss of Ra Ra Riot's drummer John Pike, and it wasn't just a small show to get the young band back into the swing of things. But I should have known better, as the band played one of the best shows I had seen them play yet (and there's been a ton), throwing themselves full-fledged into every song. Perhaps they felt the same as I did, I'm not quite sure, but watching them play a fantastic set made me realize they have made the best decision in honoring John's memory.

    I was lucky enough to stand in the photo pit for most of the set, and although the band is incredibly hard to photograph (they never stand still!), I managed to snap a few good pictures. Pat was there too and got some great shots as well. Kudos to the band for putting on such a great set. They are, truly, unstoppable.

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    Sunday, June 10, 2007

    Remembering John Pike

    Blogs are a funny thing. I guess I can't speak for anyone else, but it seems to me as none of us decided from the beginning the ethical and moral standards we would take with our own websites. We didn't decide the tone, the type of coverage, or the stance on ideas, views, or anything of that nature. Frankly I think it's because music is music and rarely do we find ourselves in sticky situations that require such back thought. And yet when tragedy struck last week, I, myself, wasn't sure how to proceed.

    From the viewing of many other blogs who covered the unfortunate and untimely death of Ra Ra Riot's drummer, John Pike, most seemed a bit unsure themselves. I wasn't surprised, or shocked, by how certain people decided to cover the story. In all honesty, in a story like this where so many questions are gone unanswered, the more I could read about it, the more I came to a personal relief.

    And in the week since that I first heard that John was missing, I've found myself thinking about life and music and the people you meet in this crazy life. And from the conversations I've had with the band's manager, and the sense I've gotten from him, is that in these types of circumstances the person must be remembered for who they were. And the very least I can do, is help that cause.

    I remember the first time I met John Pike. It was during the CMJ Music Marathon of last year, and I had booked a Sunday day show that I knew was going to be tough on all of us. After four days straight of drinking and show hopping, I myself was exhausted. But I woke up early and ran to dunkin donuts and decided to treat all my musical guests to a bit of coffee. Naturally, all were very thankful but I specifically remember John walking up to me, with a big goofy grin, and telling me how nice it was. Like the awkward self I usually am, I smiled and nodded, but John wouldn't stop. He kept going on and on about how late their show was at Studio B the night before, and how excited they were to play this one, but tired and the coffee was really nice. I'll never forget how genuine that conversation felt then, even more so now.

    It's a strange thing when you find yourself seeing the same band numerous times. I seem to be a victim of this a lot, a creature of habit that sticks to what she likes and doesn't let go. Ra Ra Riot just happened to be one of those bands where I would not, could not, miss one of their New York shows. There was even talks of driving to Boston when they played with my dear friends Birdmonster, and when I was in Austin I made sure to catch up with them, not only once, but twice. And when you see a band every time they are in town, you run the risk of looking like a psycho fan that the band needs to be weary about. Or at least that's what goes through my head when I get there.

    Besides that first encounter with John, the memories I'll hold dear is seeing his face coming through a crowd at every single show. For a pretty shy, but super fan like myself, having a member of one of your favorite bands not only acknowledge your presence, but thank you time and time again for making the effort to come down is priceless. John, without a doubt, always made the effort to come say hi to me and thank me profusely for making it out. I remember the last time I saw them play at Mercury Lounge, I finally told him he didn't have to thank me anymore, that he can pretty much guarantee I'll be there every time. He just smiled and went on asking me about work and life, knowing full well he'd be there to show gratitude the next time. And even though he won’t, I think I'll know that he's still thankful, as am I, for being there.

    I didn't know John Pike for too long, but from the time I did I was honored to be in his presence. Never have I felt someone so genuinely warm and compassionate for so little time. Needless to say, he will be missed by myself, a music community at large...and most importantly, his family and friends.

    To my dear Ra Ra Rioters, stay strong. My thoughts are with you.

    Sunday, June 3, 2007

    Please Help

    From Ra Ra Riot:

    Hey,

    Last night our drummer John Pike went missing at 3 am. He was last seen in Fairhaven, MA wearing a yellow t-shirt and jeans. If you have any information on where he may be, know anyone in the Fairhaven area, or spoke with him after 2 am saturday morning, please contact Fairhaven police immediately as well as John's mother, Paula Pike - (978) 835 2140. We appreciate any information.

    Update: John Pike's body was found this afternoon. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends at this terrible time. John was a fantastic person and a musician and I treasure the time spent with him.

    Friday, March 30, 2007

    What I've Been Listening To

    In the last four months I've spent more money on medication than on music. This is not okay. I'm sick, again, for the 80th time in the past four months and frankly am getting for lack of a better word, sick of it. So I'm working from home today, and it's been a good opportunity to re-listen to a lot of the music I've been digging as of late.

    It's been a while since I've posted any MP3s, mostly because I don't have my library at work. When I'm at work, I'm usually trying to focus on a story and music has become more of a distraction than a solace. Strange, right? But I have a CD player that I use, or listen to what everyone else is listening to for suggestions. In fact, one of my coworkers listened to this on repeat yesterday. While everyone else found it extremely annoying, I loved every minute of it. Go figure.

    But the truth is, I have been listening to a ton of music lately, mostly on my subway trips to and from work, or the wind-down hours before sleeping. Most of it will not be new to you crazy folks, but I have been a little slow to discover these days. Regardless, the mix below is a lot of what I've been digging, so hopefully you will too. A lot of it is due to SXSW or sent to me by people with their fingers much closer to the pulse.

    I blame the sickness.

    Enjoy.

    What Rachael Has Been Listening To Vol 1:

  • Illinois - Alone Again
  • Ra Ra Riot - Each Year
  • The Lisps - Pepper Spray
  • Modest Mouse - Dashboard
  • LCD Soundsystem - Time To Get Away
  • Kristoffer Ragnstam - Lonely Lane
  • Mika - Love Today
  • Matt and Kim - Ready? OK
  • Voxtrot - Stephen
  • Pela - The Trouble With River Cities
  • Amy Winehouse - Back To Black
  • Bright Eyes - Cartoon Blues
  • Peter Bjorn & John - Start To Melt
  • The Antlers - The Universe Is Going To Catch You
  • White Rabbits - While We Go Dancing
  • The Pipettes - Judy
  • Love Is All - Felt Tip
  • Datarock - Fa-Fa-Fa
  • Wednesday, March 7, 2007

    i heart kristoffer ragnstam, as well as every other band it seems

    Ah, here you are. I knew there was some place I was supposed to rehash my silly shenanigans other than towards my friends. I knew there was a reason for the overabundance of eye rolling as of late. See! One plus of the internet. I can't see your reaction. Horray.

    So where did we leave off? Ah yes! Jukebox The Ghost, to whom I declared my new favorite band (in their presence) while toasting a shot (I may have drank a bit too much on Saturday). But in all seriousness, this band made quite an impression. I had never seen them live, but for the past few weeks I have made a killing on their few songs I possess. I spent the better part of their set jumping around and singing out all the words. I really have no shame.

    The trio hammered out an extremely enjoyable set to a packed crowd for the early hour on a Saturday night. I was sad to see it end, to be quite honest. Just when I was beginning to get over the initial shock (wow, they really are that good), they started to pack up their stuff. Perhaps that's the reason I drank so much that night -- I must have been in denial.

    For better and more coherent ramblings on the awesome show, check out Pop Tarts Suck Toasted or The Music Slut's posts. And keep a lookout for this band. They are coming back at'cha this summer with a Piano's residency. Mmhmm, I knew that they'd make an impression.

    Speaking of making an impression. This week I managed to have yet another awkward interview with Voxtrot's Ramesh, and yet another gush-worthy interview with Nic Harcourt. It's funny, both I have interviewed before in my past journalistic experiences. I'd like to think I now have a different outlook, nay approach to my interviews working for a legit publication. Nope, still the same ol' me. It's been a crazy last couple weeks here at CMJ, but my, I never knew how much I missed the actual act of reporting. And even  though I complain on a daily basis, and would rather stay in my nice warm bed and watch 24 all day, I'm pretty gosh darn thrilled that I ended up where I have. It's all been quite surreal.

    But yes! Let's talk about music. Because I've actually been listening to some new music and hopefully I'll get back into writing succinct posts about each. But for now, I'll just let you in on my latest find, Mr. Kristoffer Ragnstam (don't ask me to pronounce that) who we did a news story on today, and now that I've listened to him he's one of my new favorite peeps to keep an eye on (there should be a list of those somewhere in my head). Not only is he a cutie mc cute (always a requirement, isn't it?) but his electro fueled pop is almost like a toned down Tom Vek with a little bit more pop. Plus, he's Swedish. He'll be at SXSW, so it is now my goal to make sure I catch at least one show. Wish me luck.

    Kristoffer Ragnstam - Breakfast By The Mattress

    Speaking of SXSW, I am indeed going for the second year in the row. I haven't had a second to comb through all the emails or schedules, so I'm hoping I can tag along with either Nora or Wes and they will have some sort of plan of action. But something tells me they are thinking exactly the same thing.

    I'll also be mulling around with the Birdmonster boys (who just kicked off their ridiculous cross-country tour) and our Ra Ra Riot friends (whose EP you can finally now pre-order.) And yes, Tally Hall will be bringing their tie-wearing selves down south as well. I can't wait to follow those boys around.

    Needless to say, I'm psyched. That's all for now.

    Just kidding. Here is a brand spanking new track off of Ra Ra Riot's new EP. I've heard some more tracks and shista, they are good.

    Enjoy this one for now.

    Ra Ra Riot - Each Year In Our Graves

    Monday, February 26, 2007

    i miss you too.

    Wow. I feel as though this blog has become that old high school friend that you keep meaning to call, but never seem to find the time. And you feel so gosh darn guilty, but again...you don't really do anything about it. So blog, I'm sorry. I'm here now -- what's new?

    Well, quite a bit, and nothing at all. Last week was pretty exhausting and exhilarating, and I'm pretty sure I had enough mood swings for one girls' lifetime. Perhaps it was lack of sleep. The Ra Ra Riot show on Wednesday night was the best I've ever seen them play. They had enough courage to let their energy permeate throughout the crowd. Now that the songs are reworked and sounding better than ever, their live show has really reached a whole new level. And Canal Room? Albeit a beautiful venue but in sound and look, $9 for a gin & tonic is a big no-no in my book. Boo, Canal Room, boo.

    Thursdays djing continued with the Rachael-needs-so-much-sleep theme, as I cut out early and left Nora to her expertise. After a long day at work (I made it through a week!) I hopped over to Union Hall for that little band I cant stop talking about the White Rabbits. I was beyond excited to see them, and I think it showed. I stood right up front and sang every single frickin word to every song. I should have been embarrassed, but I was having too much fun. Because there wasn't enough room for all of them on stage, they had a drum set up within the crowd. It was pretty amazing to watch. I seriously need to get every person I know out to see this band. I talk about them enough, that they need to see it for themselves.

    But it was pretty tricky to get into Friday's night show, as they were playing a very small venue with French Kicks, who if you have been reading this blog for some time, know I have a bit of a history with. Sounds scandalous, doesn't it? Like I had some secret affair where I ran off to the Caribbean with one of them and wrote a tell-all about it later before making my millions. Ah, a girl can dream. No no, sadly it was just an awesome interview experience and I've always had a soft spot in my heart for this band. A lot of people gave up in light of their last album, but I actually quite liked hearing it on record. 

    However, for some reason, on Friday they less than entertained me. Perhaps it was the fact they followed White Rabbits, or perhaps it was the fact that there were a group of annoying girls up front who wouldn't stop pushing through, but I ended up leaving half way through to head back to the city. I do love me some French Kicks, but I also wish that they'd play some old tunes once in a while. Hearing what they have in store made me just a little bit concerned. And yet once I got back into the city that night I managed to almost get in a fist fight with some girl, walked down the street with a gin&tonic from a bar, and didnt get home til 5:30 AM. Something tells me I should have just stayed to watch French Kicks.

    My plan to stay in on Saturday didn't exactly work out so well. I had dreams of laying in bed and watching 24 and passing out at 10 PM, but I'm a bit of a night owl, so that changed. I hopped just around the corner to Parkside, where I ran into more people I knew then I'd ever expect (people actually go to Parkside? Who knew!) I caught a set by a Philly band called Blue Sinatra, and had so much fun watching them. It's got a little scat, a little ska, and a lot of fun. They all ended up playing the drums by the end of the set, and the lead singer even played his keyboards with his feet AND his stool. Now that is showmanship if I ever saw it.

    I considered live blogging the Oscars last night, but again...was too tired. I did managed to head all the way to Queens to eat some delicious spinach dip and laugh more than ever imagined. That's so much better than live blogging on your own.

    I swear I'll have some proper posts once I get the hang of all this. Meanwhile, there's two awesome shows this week that I better see you at: A Brief Smile/Mason Proper @ Sin-e on Thursday, and Jukebox The Ghost on Saturday. More details on that last one soon.

    Wednesday, February 21, 2007

    here, there, everywhere

    The blog is going to be very scatterbrained from now on. I hope that's okay. This job is like a total rush 24/7 and I feel on edge and excited all the time. Is that strange? Perhaps. All I know is today I got to speak with Kevin Devine, and I almost died. I love him.

    Read the story about Capitol dropping him right here.

    I am pumped to see Ra Ra Riot tonight at Canal Room. I was honored to be sent a couple tracks off their forthcoming EP, and get ready. The demos never fully represented how intense this band is live. These new tracks will do that justice, and then some. From what I heard, they were all reimagined versions of songs I've heard before -- adding in a little edge, a little funk and a whole lot more energy. It's pretty remarkable.

    You can go listen to the new version of "Each Year In Our Graves" over on their myspace.

    Now let me listen to the Arcade Fire live mp3 download and cry because I wasn't there. And get back to work.

    I'll be dancing tonight. Watch out.

    Thursday, February 1, 2007

    Ra Ra Riot @ Mercury Lounge | New EP

    Last night I made the grand re-emergence of 2007, stepping out of my apartment for the first time since Sunday morning's fun trip to the ER. It felt nice to be outside the confines of a couch and reality TV. Granted I didn't go very far...only a couple blocks west to Mercury Lounge for yet another stellar lineup.

    It's always a pleasure to see Ra Ra Riot whether it be in the middle of a clothing store or on a well-refuted stage. Last night was the latter, and actually my first time seeing them at Mercury Lounge. While I expected the band to sound top-notch sonically, something was up with some funky mics that left more to be desired. Regardless, the band put on yet another rowdy set (complete with "Hounds of Love" cover, always a crowd pleaser) that was nonstop fun.

    Not to sound like a complete former stoner, but I find Ra Ra Riot at their best when they are jamming out. I wish they extended those instrumental jams sometimes. It's such a privilege to listen to a band like this with such a talented a string section that I frankly can't get enough. And when they get into those crazy moments where all the elements lineup and each part perfectly compliments the other, well...that's when the crowd goes really wild.

    Last night the band debuted a couple reworked tracks from their upcoming EP. Specifically "Dying is Fine" has a brand new intro that teases and pleases thanks to lead singer Wesley Miles vocal antics. Watching them made me very excited to hear the new recordings, in which the band was working on this past weekend. Apparently they worked so hard they finished a day early, which means we'll get a copy one day earlier as well. Awesome. No date yet on its release, but something tells me it may be in time for SXSW.

    The band will in fact be down in Austin probably playing a billion shows over the four day festival. Following that trip, Ra Ra will be heading overseas, with a mini-tour in the UK. Check out their myspace for more deets.

    Monday, December 18, 2006

    When I Am Gone | Sparrow House

    Hi.

    I feel like I've been neglecting this blog lately, and I'm here to apologize. You are probably thinking to yourself..okay, this girl is crazy. She hasn't missed a day posting. I realize that. But to me the posts as of late have been quite lackluster. I never really know the right balance between personal and straight forward blog posting, and I still am a little bit lost. I've missed posting about shows I've gone to, CDs I've listened to. I've forgotten about my 52 albums a Week adventure, and I have no one to blame but myself. This time of the year always gets me a little bit crazed, but I should be able to stop once in a while and attempt at some musical pontificating.

    Now, while I go away on Friday for a week (mmmm...vacation) I'm going to try and play catch up this week as much as I can. You still have my "Top 25 Songs of 2006" to look forward to, that I have been pinning over and over and over again, re-ordering, adding, subtracting etc. These list things are a big deal, aren't they?

    Last week I went to The Friction Party which is always a super dooper time. I saw Tall Hands play as a full band for the first time and really dug them. It was an added bonus that the younger Pete from Nickelodeon’s most underrated show, Pete & Pete is their guitar player. The sparks were flowing, and then I realized I had to go.

    BreakThru Radio recorded a live session with my favorites A Brief Smile that night, so I hopped out for a few hours to watch. I'll have pictures and maybe an exclusive MP3 up here before I leave hopefully. Their full session will be up next week for you to listen to, so please don't forget.

    I ventured back to Friction and caught the tail end of Bound Stems who were without foliage, but still sounding as stupendous as ever. Sadly I missed my song (you'll find it in my top 25 songs of the year post), but they played to an enthusiastic crowd. Each time I see this band I like them a little bit more. It's that kind of sound that grows on you. Kind of like trees. Now I see the connection.

    Thursday I hit up the Filter party and got to catch up with the Ra Ra Riot kids, since I missed them the night before. It's a very odd experience drinking and seeing a band in a clothing store. I think it's mostly due to the very bright lights. I spent most of the time there trying not to spill my free Bass on the gorgeous coat I was so close to buying. And then I saw Keith from We Are Scientists in the audience and I hid behind a clothes rack. One of these days, I'll stop being so silly.

    Ra Ra Riot put on one of the best shows I've seen them play thus far, mostly because they were one with the audience. The six piece was literally running into each other amongst the clothes and the hundreds of people who showed up. It was rowdy, to say the least and ridiculously fun. I don't care what you say or think about this band, I think they are fantastic. I can't wait to see them truly blow up in 2007.

    After Filter headed to the last Stolen Transmission party at Annex. Not going to lie, I'm looking forward to fewer nights at Annex. You know how I feel about this place. Didn't stay too long. Too much beer makes this blogger sleepy.

    Friday I had planned to stay in and catch up on some z's, but D persuaded me that her new party Neon Lights at Delancey. Okay, I'd give it a shot. It was Friday night afterall. So I dragged Sean there early for the $3 PBRs (I can't pass up a good drink offer) and was there in time to see Bell, a female singer/songwriter donned with a keyboard and a very Regina Spektor-esque voice. I thought she was, in short, fabulous. Extremely likeable in her presence and with a voice that echoed throughout the small stage, I think everyone there was pretty captivated. It was catchy with a certain charm. As Borat would say: very nice.

    I caught a bit of the second act, Lismore, but migraines and exhaustion ensued, and I had to call it a night. I went home and watched Cheaper By The Dozen 2 on HBO and passed out half way through. I'm not sure if I was just that tired, or if it was just that bad, but I was asleep by 11 on a Friday. I'm that cool.

    Saturday was an early start and off to Prospect Park for what Nora and I have donned "Blogger Bowl," where some of your favorite bloggers played flag (er, towel?) football while we cheered along and drank a lot of red wine in the afternoon. This weather is crazy, considering its December, but I was all for it. It was a beautiful day in the park and a hilarious attempt at football. The rest of the day/night turned into a drinking fest, which the details will remain unsaid, and a bit blurred.

    So that brings you up to date with a bit of the shows, and I promise I'll try and keep this thing with a more organized routine. I'll work my ass off to get everything squared away before I leave on Friday.

    Oh, and here's a song that I've forgotten on my Top 25 in 2006 list, but deserves attention nonetheless. Jared just emailed me over the weekend and is sending me a copy of his EP Falls so I'm pumped to take a listen.

  • Sparrow House - When I Am Gone
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