Wednesday, December 17, 2014

50 Favorite Songs of 2014



Hello friends, another year has come and gone and it's time for my annual version of The Tremagazine Favorite Songs of the year. I spent about two months compiling this list, starting a bit earlier than I usually do as I had a lot of material to review and wanted to share the best that I could find.

As I typically do, I'll list some of my favorite lyrics along with some personal thoughts on the song and/or artist. I was fortunate enough to see several of these acts live and I'll include some thoughts on those experiences as well. One thing I tried to incorporate this year was finding as many live versions of the songs that I could share. Many of these artists & groups are excellent performers so I wanted to capture that best I could. Additionally, I've added a spotify playlist so those of you that use it can just stream the songs in one place.

I enjoyed putting this together and I hope you can find some new favorites that you may have missed during the year. As always, I appreciate any feedback and thoughts regarding the list by either commenting here or shooting me an email. A lot of the fun in putting this list together is getting the chance to share it with all of you. Without further ado, in no particular order, here's my fifty favorite songs of 2014..... hope you enjoy!





"Slow Coming" - Benjamin Booker (from the album, Benjamin Booker)

I've seen this album show up on a couple "best of 2014" lists but I still think overall it deserves to be on more. I spent many hours listening to this record during the year and it only grew on me with every listen. I was able to see Benjamin Booker a couple times in different settings, first at Austin City Limits (my first trip, which was amazing by the way) and then at Mercury Lounge in NYC. Completely different venues but both performances were met with a ton of energy and passion from Benjamin and his band mates. This is the first of two songs that made my list but I could have easily included a few more, wonderful debut album.

Honestly,
How can I be calm right now?
To tell you the truth,
I ain't been sleepin' too well





"My Favourite Faded Fantasy" - Damien Rice (from the album, My Favourite Faded Fantasy)

After a long hiatus, Damien Rice reappeared recently with his first album in years. Damien writes some of the most beautiful, heartbreaking music you'll lend your ears to, going all the way back to his 2003 release, O. Recommendation, keep the tissues nearby. Hoping to see him perform in 2015 although tickets for his shows have sold out almost immediately for each show announced around the country.

You could be my favourite place
I’ve ever been
I got lost in your willingness
To dream within the dream

You could be my favourite faded fantasy
I’ve hung my happiness upon what it all could be





"Patriarch" - Delta Spirit (from the album, Into The Wide)

Delta Spirit is a band that I've followed for awhile now and I've only become a bigger fan over the last few years following their live performances which seem to get better and better. This was my favorite album of the year and I think this is one of the best songs of the year as well.

Juliet and her friend stood at the edge
Juliet jumped without restraint
Her friend fell back, lost faith
Without a God to blame





"Kansas City" - The New Basement Tapes (from the album, Lost On The River)

This project has to be one of the cooler collection of artists to come together in some time. On this track alone you've got Marcus Mumford, Elvis Costello, Taylor Goldsmith (of Dawes), Jim James and even some guest appearances from Johnny Depp (yes, that Johnny Depp) and the Haim sisters. Most of whom you can see in the video clip below.

And you call me to come, then I do
And you say you made some mistake
You invite me into your house
Then you say you gotta pay for what you break
I’m going back to Kansas City





"Do You" - Spoon (from the album, They Want My Soul)

Spoon's latest work has appeared on many "best of 2014" lists and rightfully so, this is an excellent album. I'm a relatively new fan of the band as I don't have most of their older material but I've really enjoyed the music they put out this year.

Do you want to get understood?
Do you want one thing or are you looking for sainthood?





"Gold" - James Vincent McMorrow (from the album, Post Tropical)

Here's an artist that writes some absolutely beautiful music. I've been listening to him for a few years now and love his previous work, especially 2010's Early In The Morning.

I hope my contour charts show up via river
Out to the only ocean
There's something peaceful that goes out via river
Out to the ocean
I was peaceful standing, I was open





"Only Lies" - Robert Ellis (from the album, The Lights From The Chemical Plant)

I first heard Robert Ellis when he opened one of the famous Deer Tick Newport Folk Festival after-shows a few years back. I immediately loved his sound and he capped off his performance with a few Paul Simon covers that captivated the crowd. I've been able to see him perform a few times since that night, including sets this past year at Webster Hall and Austin City Limits and have always come away impressed. His latest album has some fantastic tracks, this is the first of two that you'll find on this list.

Only lies can comfort you
Only lies will see you through
Just because a thing's convenient
Well, that doesn't make it true
Only lies can comfort you





"Dearly Departed" - Shakey Graves feat. Esme Patterson (from the album, And the War Came)

This past summer I was up at the wonderful Newport Folk Festival, what I like to call a music lover's paradise. In the middle of the Saturday schedule, the lineup featured a great run on one of the stages featuring J Roddy Walston & The Business > Shakey Graves > Lucius. Both J Roddy and Lucius had nice size bands but I don't know if anyone was prepared for how big the crowd was for Shakey Graves. Probably the largest crowd I've seen to date on that stage and I've seen many acts there over the last few years. Sometimes schedules get put together early for festivals and then the bands just kind of explode in popularity, which I think is what we saw here. Anyways, it's well deserved as Shakey Graves is a great live act and it's fun seeing that many people rally around an up and coming artist.

I love the video I found to share with you below, these two have incredible chemistry. I bet Johnny and June Carter Cash would be proud of this performance.

Even when one is dead and gone
It still takes two to make a house a home
Well I'm as lonesome as the catacombs
I hear you call my name but no one is there
Except a feeling in the air





"An Ocean In Between The Waves" - The War On Drugs (from the album, Lost In The Dream)

It's pretty amazing to me how popular this band has gotten. I've been listening to them for years and wrote a bit about seeing them at Cameo Gallery in Brooklyn back in 2011. I've seen this album named on numerous "best of 2014" lists and I think the praise is warranted, just an excellent album. I'm glad to see these guys getting some serious recognition. Another band that will show up twice on this list, here's my first selection...

Just wanna lay in the moonlight
See the light shine in, see you in the outline
It never gets too dark to find
Anybody at anytime





"Crown the Pines" - S. Carey (from the album, Range of Light)

For all the success that Bon Iver has had (and I love that band), it's almost amazing how little you may hear about S. Carey's solo work. Having seen Bon Iver live several times, I realized how talented an assembly of musicians this band was but then I saw THIS VIDEO. Incredible. Beautiful. Literally one of my favorite things on the internet, these guys are phenomenal. I've enjoyed S Carey's work and I think this is another wonderful track. Let's raise a glass to an integral piece of Bon Iver not named Justin Vernon.

One note on the video below, I love the way these guys use percussion in their music. So much more than just a basic drum set, they've always got multiple layers of percussion in their songs. I think you can get a good idea of that here.

I am in love with this place
But I fear for its grace





"Blockbuster Night Part 1" - Run The Jewels (from the album, Run The Jewels 2)

One of my favorite albums of the year, both lyrically and musically. They just played back to back nights in NYC and I'm pissed I missed it. Hoping to catch them live ASAP. The sound quality on the video below isn't the best but I wanted to find something that displayed the energy of the show and I think this clip does a good job of that.

No hocus pocus, you simple suckers been served a notice
Top of the morning, my fist to your face is fucking Folgers





"Goshen '97" - Strand of Oaks(from the album, HEAL)

Here's an album I got into a few months back, this was the standout track for me. Related... I'm going to assume that these guys are good people as well, they're playing the Shine A Light Music Benefit on Sat. Feb. 7 in Rockville Centre, NY which is a very cool event.

I was lonely, I was having fun
I was lonely, but I was having fun

I don't want to start over again





"My Wrecking Ball" - Ryan Adams(from the album, Ryan Adams)

One of my favorite songwriters of all time, another classic here. I believe the first time (or close to first time) this was played live was at this year's Newport Folk Festival. I've included a video from that performance because it was something wonderful to hear in person and just gets better and better with each listen.

Driving through the streets tonight
It's hot, I’ve got the windows down
I wish I could call you, I wish you were still around





"Kathleen" - Catfish and the Bottlemen (from the album, Kathleen and the Other Three)

I honestly had never even heard of this band until I was down in Austin for ACL. I was headed to Stubbs BBQ for the J Roddy Walston & The Business when my friend Lindsay texted me to make sure I got their for the opener.... these guys. Stubbs has two venues, both an indoor and outdoor space, this was downstairs in the indoor space which is extremely small (maybe a few hundred people packed in?). I thought these guys were AWESOME. It's rare that you find a new band that really impresses you without knowing any of their material. From what I've read since I returned home, I think they have a big following overseas but their full album will come out in the US early this year. I've included a couple of their songs on this list so you'll see another down the line.

And Yes, I know
That I’ll never work out exactly how you’re thinking
But, Let me know when I’m needed home





"You and Me" - You + Me (from the album, Rose Ave.)

I've been a fan of Dallas Green and his work in City & Colour for awhile now. He has one of the best pure voices of anyone I've ever seen in concert. Years ago after one of his shows I compared him at times to Jeff Buckley, he just has phenomenal range. I've always thought Pink was talented but I can't say that I listened to much of her material. A couple years ago I was searching some clips on line and found one from 2011 where they performed City & Colour's "What Makes A Man" (listen to that HERE). Since that day, I've thought how great it would be if they ever recorded together..... and here you have it.....

They say everything it happens for a reason
You can be flawed enough, but perfect for a person
Someone who will be there for you when you fall apart
Guiding your direction when you're riding through the dark

Oh that's you and me





"Blue Moon" - Beck (from the album, Morning Phase)

Beck has such a skill to write great songs in a variety of styles. This is probably one of my favorites from him, love this live performance below too.

Oh don't leave me on my own
Left me standing all alone





"Slow Train" - Streets of Laredo (from the album, Volume I&II)

Here's a pretty cool band that's album was just recently released towards the end of the year. They opened for Delta Spirit at the Bowery Ballroom show and I'm sure will be putting together a tour for 2015. This is probably my favorite song from the album but they've got several good ones on there. Look out for these guys making some noise next year.

Like A Feeling
Things are getting Better... Slow Train....





"Your Love Is Killing Me" - Sharon Van Etten (from the album, Are We There)

Sharon Van Etten is another artist I first heard live opening for Deer Tick at the Newport Folk After-shows. Such a strong performer and her music just basically rips your heart out of your body. This song is incredibly intense but so powerful.

We've been through better days
And you've tasted all my pain





"From Eden" - Hozier (from the album, Hozier)

Well Hozier certainly exploded onto the scene in 2014, didn't he? "Take Me To Church" has literally been heard just about everywhere (don't think it's in a Geico commercial yet but stay tuned). That said, the guy writes some great music and this was a favorite of mine from the album. I think I like the version posted below a bit better than the recorded version, reminds me so much of Van Morrison.

Babe, there's something tragic about you
Something so magic about you
Don't you agree?





"Milly's Garden" - Steve Gunn (from the album, Way Out Weather)

Steve Gunn was formerly in Kurt Vile's band, the Violators. Kurt Vile was also one of the founding members of the War on Drugs. All sorts of tie-ins throughout this list!!!

Your faith is savage
And your mind is damaged
You're more than half way there





"So Much Wine, Merry Christmas" - Andrew Bird (from the album, Things Are Really Great Here, Sort Of)

Andrew Bird's take on Handsome Family's "So Much Wine"

Listen to me, butterfly
There's only so much wine
That you can drink one life,
but it will never be enough,
To save you from the bottom of your glass





"Chandelier" - Sia (from the album, 1000 Forms Of Fear)

A really catchy tune and a damn good video, one of the better ones this year.

Sun is up, I'm a mess
Gotta get out now, gotta run from this
Here comes the shame, here comes the shame





"Transgender Dysphoria Blues" - Against Me(from the album, Transgender Dysphoria Blues)

Huge fan of Laura Jane Grace and her band, Against Me. I started listening to them about seven years ago but finally got to see them live this year in Brooklyn. The show was on a Sunday night, started at 1am and I went alone. The crowd was awesome. Work at 7am the next day was not. One of the best nights I had this year. This video I took hopefully can express how much fun it was.

Rough surf on the coast,
I wish I could've spent the whole day alone
With you
With you





"The Wreck" - Delta Spirit (from the album, Into The Wide)

The second Delta Spirit song on my list, this one is really heavy lyrically.

You don't expect apologies
You always see the best in me
I'm the lucky fool that you married
And when we're out on the run
Drive into the setting sun
My heart beats for only you, my heart beats for only you...





"Long Distance" - The Districts (from the album, Districts)

A friend of mine has been following this band in Philly the last couple of years and I got to see them at Brooklyn Bowl opening for Houndmouth. Very cool show and they're an excellent live band. Didn't know a lot of their material going into the show but loved this song.

Talking through a tin can
i can see your face in the sun with your eyes closed
stare outside now
watch the dreams, they slide





"Bored In The USA" - Father John Misty (from the album, Bored In The USA)

Father John Misty's album will be out early in 2015 but this is the first single. I love the use of a built-in laugh track. Perfect.

They gave me useless education
And a sub-prime loan on a craftsman home
Keep my prescriptions filled
And now I can’t get off but I can kind of deal





"Safety In Numbers" - We Were Promised Jetpacks (from the album, Unravelling)

Probably one of the most high-energy bands you'll see live, they've always got some really catchy songs on their releases. Even in the clip below you can feel how into it they are.

There was a time
When I wasn't brave
Something about this planet
Just didn't align





"Micheline" - Sun Kil Moon (from the album, Benji)

This is really an excellent album. I enjoy a lot of Mark Kozelek's work (other than his feud with the War on Drugs) but this song stood out to me lyrically. I chose a few lines that really stood out to me and related with.

My grandma, my grandma, my grandma, my grandma, my grandma, my grandma.
Before she passed away we'd go and visit her at my aunt's house when I was small.
I couldn't bear the shape she was in so at the top of the driveway I'd sit in the car
.




"Cruel City" - Augustines (from the album, Augustines)

Let me say... LOVE THIS BAND. Talk about energy, good lord. Please watch the video below and if you have the chance, see this band live. You will not be disappointed in the least. I absolutely loved their debut album and some great tracks on their latest as well.

Hey don't hide your eyes
I'll still reach for you in the dark
Hey I miss your skin
I’ll still reach for you in the dark





"Movin On" - Spanish Gold (from the album, South of Nowhere)

This band features Patrick Hallahan of My Morning Jacket and honestly reminds me of a Black Keys song. Cool tune.




"i" - Kendrick Lamar (from the single, i)

I think Kendrick is extremely talented, both lyrically and performance-wise. I don't think there's many artists that could pull of what he does in the video below.

Dreams of reality's peace
Blow steam in the face of the beast
The sky could fall down, the wind could cry now
The strong in me, I still smile





"Houston" - Robert Ellis (from the album, Songs From The Chemical Plant)

Another good one from Robert Ellis. I couldn't make this performance as I had a conflict that night but happy this was recorded, excellent version.

When I came here I was a boy
And now I'm leaving a man
When I came here I was lost
But now I know who I am





"Head Underwater" - Jenny Lewis (from the album, The Voyager)

Jenny Lewis played on the main stage during the day at the Newport Folk Festival and I got to watch her entire set, great stuff. Love this song off her latest album.

I put my head underwater baby,
I held my breath until it passed
Crossed my fingers and concentrated
I closed my eyes and I was free at last





"It Kills" - Afghan Whigs (from the album, Do To The Beast)

This band has been making great music for many, many years. I was surprised how much I liked this album but they're still going strong.

Over and over I get to know myself.
Over and over there ain't nobody else
Imperceptible the lines I draw to you.
It kills to watch you love another





"I Thought I Heard You Screaming" - Benjamin Booker (from the album, Benjamin Booker)

This song kills me. Fell in love with it the first time it hit my ears.

Set yourself on fire so high so high
I could feel your heart was speeding
Did you love me or was it the drugs?

And the life we’re living now will surely bury me





"Would You Fight For My Love" - Jack White (from the album, Lazaretto)

Confession, I've never been a huge White Stripes fan. I was never negative on them, just never clicked for me. Jack White headlined Newport Folk this year on the second night and man, he was phenomenal. I really, really enjoyed his set. Super talented guy and great backing band. I've written a bit about how Newport is such a special and unique festival and if you haven't seen it, I think you should watch THIS VIDEO. From what I've read and heard, this festival had really strong impact on him and I think you can see that in his eyes towards the end of the song.... almost brought to tears. Call me a fan, I will certainly be seeing him again.

But I'm afraid of being hurt that's true
But not afraid of any physical pain
Just as I am always scared of water
But not afraid of standing out in the rain





"Wild Animals" - Trampled By Turtles (from the album, Wild Animals)

I've seen this band at a couple festivals and I've really enjoyed their live performances. They put out a really solid studio album in 2014 and I think this is one of the better tracks.

I see the better part of you
I see the better part of you
But I'm a monster just like you
Wild animals it's true





"Break The Cycle" - You+Me (from the album, Rose Ave.)

Since this album was in my rotation most of the year I decided to include a second track.

Circles and cycles and seasons
For everything there's always reason
But it's never good
Never turns out as it should





"Stayin Out All Night" - Wiz Khalifa (from the album, Blacc Hollywood)

I completely dig Wiz Khalifa, I like most of his material. I think the performance below is really unique.

You work hard for what you got
they could never take it from you
All you need is a little patience
let me demonstrate





"Fever" - The Black Keys (from the album, Turn Blue)

Talk about a band that's exploded, unbelievable. I cannot believe how big these guys are now. I sat in the upper deck at the Barclays Center a few months back looking around in disbelief at a packed stadium. Just a great live band.

Now if the cold pale light in your eyes
Reaches those horizon lines
You know not to leave her


Read more: The Black Keys - Fever Lyrics | MetroLyrics



"Burning" - The War On Drugs (from the album, Lost In The Dream)

Another great one from the war on drugs, this performance is really cool.

Wide awake
I rearrange the way I listen in the dark
Dreaming, starting up again





"Bad Self Portraits" - Lake Street Dive (from the album, Bad Self Portraits)

How great is Rachel Price's voice? Listen to that video and tell me it doesn't knock you on your ass? Amazing.

I've spent my life
so lost on lovin'
I could have been a painter or a president
But after 25 years
I should be good at something
Gone are the days of me being so innocent





"Close Your Eyes (And Count to Fuck)" - Run The Jewels feat. Zack De La Rocha (from the album, Run The Jewels 2)

Run the Jewels AND Zack De La Rocha?!?!? I am a huge fan of Rage Against The Machine. Saw them many times back in the day, one of the greatest live bands ever assembled. Again not the best sound quality in the video below but a chance to see Zack on stage sold me on it.

It's De La on the cut,liftin' 6 on your snitchin' crew
I'm miles ahead of you, you can sip my bitches brew
My battle status is burnin' mansions from Dallas to Malibu
Check my résumé, your residence is residue





"Stars" - Angel Olsen (from the album, Burn Your Fire For No Witness)

This was one of my last entries into the list but really a beautiful song. I love the title of her album too, phenomenal.

To scream the stars out of our universe
To scream at all back into nothingness
To scream the feeling til there's nothing left





"Take Shelter" - Delta Spirit (from the album, Into The Wide)

The only band that had three songs on my list but it was my favorite album of 2014 so I felt it was worth it.

Hold your head up to the light, wait till it's over now.
Take my hand and hold it tight, wait till it's over now.
Everything will be alright, wait till it's over now.





"White Gardenias" - Justin Townes Earle (from the album, Single Mothers)

With every Justin Townes Earle release, you're guaranteed to find at least one gem within the track listing. This was the song for me, stunning.

So if you see her out tonight,
Yeah just look her in the eyes
You might not know it now,
But you'll know it when you see her

White dress, white shoes, and white gardenias





"When I Get My Hands On You" - The New Basement Tapes (from the album, Lost On The River)

Second entry from this collection of musicians. Very sweet & sentimental lyrically.

When I come home to you
Gonna take you down to the riverside
When I come home to you
Hold you in my arms all night





"XO" - John Mayer (from the single, XO)

Obviously a cover of the Beyonce hit but I thought it was a really unique take on a popular song that almost sounds like an original.

In the darkest night hour (in the darkest night hour)
I'll search through the crowd (I'll search through the crowd)
Your face is all that I see
I'll give you everything





"Homesick" - Catfish & The Bottlemen (from the album, Kathleen and the Other Three)

One more from Catfish & The Bottlemen... I'm pretty sure we'll be hearing more about these guys in 2015.

I got misled, mistook, discard
Anything that I said
See I'm not the type to call you up drunk
But I've got some lies to tell





"Betray My Heart" - D'Angelo and The Vanguard (from the album, Black Messiah)

The last entry into the list! Just made it in by the surprise 2014 release of this album. Somebody had to get bumped but it's worth it for a song this good. Welcome back, D'Angelo.

Like the breeze that blows in June
I will steady keep you cool
This I swear with all that's true
I'll take nothing in place of you


Monday, November 3, 2014

Wednesday, October 22, 2014

SOTD: "My Place" - Young Buffalo



Oxford, Mississippi-based band Young Buffalo have just released “My Place” off their upcoming debut album, House. The band is in NYC this week for the CMJ Festival, catch them at the following shows.

Catch Them Live This Week at CMJ

10/24 – New York, NY – The Living Room @ 9 pm
10/25 – New York, NY – Arlene’s Grocery @ 8:30pm

Tuesday, September 23, 2014

SOTD: "Break the Cycle" - You & Me



Here's the new single from You & Me (Dallas Green & Pink)

Thursday, September 18, 2014

SOTD: "Slow Train" - Streets of Laredo



Streets Of Laredo will be performing with Delta Spirit at their upcoming Bowery Ballroom show on Weds. 10/1. This will be the band's first date on their fall tour in support of their first full-length album, Volume I & II on Dine Alone Records, out October 7th. For more on the band, including other upcoming tour dates, please visit their website HERE.



Wednesday, August 27, 2014

SOTD: "Time Shows Fools" - Justin Townes Earle



Here's a new video for a track from Justin's upcoming album, "Single Mothers". Justin will head out on a US headlining tour in September in support of this new album, tour dates listed below.

SEP 05, 2014
FRIDAY Chattanooga , TN
Track 29

SEP 06, 2014
SATURDAY Cincinnati, CA
Ohio River Throwdown

SEP 07, 2014
SUNDAY Columbus, OH
Bluestone

SEP 09, 2014
TUESDAY New York, NY
Stage 48

SEP 10, 2014
WEDNESDAY Boston, MA
Royale

SEP 11, 2014
THURSDAY Ardmore, PA
Ardmore Music Hall

SEP 12, 2014
FRIDAY Rocky Mount , VA
Harvester

SEP 13, 2014
SATURDAY Durham, NC
Carolina Theatre

SEP 14, 2014
SUNDAY Charlottesville , VA
Jefferson Theatre

SEP 16, 2014
TUESDAY Alexandria , VA
The Birchmere

SEP 17, 2014
WEDNESDAY Alexandria , VA
The Birchmere

SEP 18, 2014
THURSDAY Pittsburgh, PA
Mr Smalls

SEP 19, 2014
FRIDAY Rochester , NY
Water Street Music Hall

SEP 20, 2014
SATURDAY Cleveland, OH
Downtown Festival

SEP 21, 2014
SUNDAY Detroit, MI
The Majestic

SEP 23, 2014
TUESDAY Chicago, IL
The Vic

SEP 24, 2014
WEDNESDAY Madison , WI
Barrymore Theater

SEP 25, 2014
THURSDAY Minneapolis , MN
First Avenue

SEP 26, 2014
FRIDAY Lincoln, NE
The Bourbon Theatre

SEP 27, 2014
SATURDAY Boulder , CO
Fox Theatre

SEP 28, 2014
SUNDAY Salt Lake City, UT
The State Room

SEP 30, 2014
TUESDAY Portland, OR
Wonder Ballroom

OCT 01, 2014
WEDNESDAY Seattle, WA
The Neptune

OCT 04, 2014
SATURDAY San Francisco , CA
Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Festival

OCT 05, 2014
SUNDAY Napa, CA
City Winery Napa

OCT 06, 2014
MONDAY Los Angeles, CA
El Rey

OCT 07, 2014
TUESDAY Solano Beach , CA
Belly Up

Monday, July 7, 2014

NPR First Listen: Trampled By Turtles "Wild Animals"



NPR Music is hosting a first listen of Trampled By Turtles' new album "Wild Animals". Listen HERE.

SOTD: "Left Hand Free" - Alt-J





Friday, June 6, 2014

SOTD: "1936" - Phox





If you like that track, you can also check out Phox's wonderful session for La Blogotheque's Take Away Shows.





The band is also on tour, dates listed below.

Tour Dates:
Tue Jun 24, 2014 - Omaha NE - The Waiting Room
Wed Jun 25, 2014 - Kansas City MO - Riot Room
Fri Jun 27, 2014 - Austin TX - Stubb's BBQ (Indoor)
Sat Jun 28, 2014 - Dallas TX - Three Links
Mon Jun 30, 2014 - Scottsdale AZ - The Western
Tue Jul 01, 2014 - Los Angeles CA - The Echo
Thu Jul 03, 2014 - San Francisco CA - The Chapel
Sat Jul 05, 2014 - Portland OR - Mississippi Studios
Sun Jul 06, 2014 - Seattle WA - The Crocodile
Tue Jul 08, 2014 - Salt Lake City UT - The State Room
Wed Jul 09, 2014 - Denver CO - Hi Dive
Fri Jul 11, 2014 - St. Louis MO - Duck Room at Blueberry Hill
Sat Jul 12, 2014 - Champaign IL - Mariposa Music Fest
Sun Jul 13, 2014 - Nashville TN - The High Watt
Tue Jul 15, 2014 - Birmingham AL - The Bottletree
Thu Jul 17, 2014 - Asheville NC - Grey Eagle
Fri Jul 18, 2014 - Chapel Hill NC - Local 506
Sat Jul 19, 2014 - Washington DC - The Hamilton
Mon Jul 21, 2014 - Philadelphia PA - Boot & Saddle
Tue Jul 22, 2014 - Brooklyn NY - Knitting Factory
Wed Jul 23, 2014 - New York NY - Mercury Lounge
Fri Jul 25, 2014 - Newport RI - Newport Folk Festival
Sat Jul 26, 2014 - North Bennington VT - The Vermont Arts Exchange
Mon Jul 28, 2014 - Montreal QC - Casa Del Popolo
Tue Jul 29, 2014 - Toronto ON - The Drake
Thu Jul 31, 2014 - Cleveland Heights OH - Grog Shop
Fri Aug 01, 2014 - Detroit MI - Magic Stick Lounge
Sun Aug 03, 2014 - Green Bay WI - Meyer Theatre w/ San Fermin
Mon Aug 04, 2014 - Minneapolis MN - 7th St. Entry
Wed Aug 06, 2014 - Milwaukee WI - Turner Hall
Thu Aug 07, 2014 - Madison WI - High Noon Saloon - SOLD OUT
Fri Aug 08, 2014 - Madison WI - High Noon Saloon - SOLD OUT
Sat Aug 09, 2014 - Chicago IL - Lincoln Hall

Wednesday, June 4, 2014

SOTD: "Lonsdale Line" - Streets of Laredo



Tour Dates

June 03 - Ottobar - Baltimore, MD
June 04 - Boot & Saddle - Philadelphia, PA
June 05 - Mercury Lounge - New York City, NY
June 07 - Il Motore - Montreal, QC
June 08 - Lee's Palace - Toronto, ON #
June 10 - Rumba Café - Columbus, OH
June 11 - Mercury Ballroom - Louisville, KY *
June 12 - Beat Kitchen - Chicago, IL
June 13 - First Avenue - Minneapolis, MN *
June 14 - Bonnaroo Music Festival - Manchester, TN
June 15 - Saint Andrews Hall - Detroit, MI *
June 17 - House of Blues - Cleveland, OH *
June 18 - 9:30 Club - Washington, DC
June 20 - Webster Hall - New York City, NY *
June 24 - Brick & Mortar Music Hall - San Francisco, CA
June 26 - Echo - Los Angeles, CA
June 27 - Soda Bar - San Diego, CA
July 01 - The Mohawk - Austin, TX
July 02 - Fitzgerald's - Houston, TX
July 03 - Three Links - Dallas, TX
July 05 - 529 - Atlanta, GA
July 08 - DC9 - Washington, DC
July 10 - Rough Trade - Brooklyn, NY
July 12 - Middle East Upstairs - Boston, MA

# w/ Cults
* w/ Kaiser Chiefs

Wednesday, May 28, 2014

SOTD: "The Shape I'm In" - I Am The Avalanche



I Am The Avalanche Tour Dates

JULY
18 - Brooklyn, NY - St. Vitus *
19 - Atlantic City, NJ - The Boneyard *
20 - Virginia Beach, VA - Shaka's *
22 - Charlotte, NC - Milestone Club *
23 - Orlando, FL - Backbooth *
24 - Tampa, FL - Epic Problem *
25 - Lake Worth, FL - Propaganda *
26 - Jacksonville, FL - 1904 Music Hall *
27 - Atlanta, GA - Masquerade *
29 - Richmond, VA - The Camel *
30 - Baltimore, MD - Metro Gallery *
31 - Hamden, CT - The Space *

AUGUST
01 - Providence, RI - The Met *
02 - Amityville, NY - Revolution *

* = Somos and Rust Belt Lights supporting

Tuesday, May 27, 2014

Thursday, May 15, 2014

SOTD: "Around Town" - The Kooks (NSFW)



You can also stream the song on Soundcloud HERE.

Upcoming tour dates for The Kooks:

Jul 26 - Boston, MA @ Paradise Rock Club
Jul 27 - Washington, DC @ 930 Club
Jul 29 - New York, NY @ Terminal 5
Aug 01 - Chicago, IL @ Lollapalooza
Aug 03 - Montreal, QC @ Osheaga Festival
Aug 04 - Toronto, ON @ Danforth Music Hall
Aug 08 - Los Angeles, CA @ The Roxy
Aug 09 - San Francisco, CA @ Outside Lands Music & Arts Festival

Tuesday, April 29, 2014

SOTD: "Easier" - The White Bicycles



Here's a great new song from the White Bicycles. If you like this, you can listen to the entire EP on Soundcloud HERE.

Thursday, April 17, 2014

SOTD: "Robe For Juda" - The Wytches



Also worth checking out are the NPR Music Field Recordings with The Wytches which you can watch HERE.

Tour Dates:
7/02 - Portland, OR - Hawthorne Theatre w/ Cloud Nothings & METZ
7/03 - Seattle, WA - Neumos w/ Cloud Nothings & METZ
7/04 - Victoria, BC - Upstairs Cabaret w/ Cloud Nothings & METZ
7/05 - Vancouver, BC - Rickshaw w/ Cloud Nothings & METZ
7/07 - San Francisco, CA - GAMH w/ Cloud Nothings & METZ
7/09 - Los Angeles, CA - Roxy w/ Cloud Nothings & METZ
7/10 - Santa Ana, CA - Constellation Room w/ Cloud Nothings
7/11 - San Diego, CA - Soda Bar w/ Cloud Nothings
7/12 - Phoenix, AZ - Crescent Ballroom w/ Cloud Nothings
7/14 - Denver, CO - Larimer Lounge w/ Cloud Nothings
7/21 - Toronto, ON - Drake Underground
7/23 - Boston, MA - Great Scott
7/24 - New York, NY - Mercury Lounge
7/25 - Brooklyn, NY - Glasslands
7/26 - Philadelphia, PA - Boot & Saddle

Wednesday, April 9, 2014

SOTD: "Lions" - William Fitzsimmons



2014 Tour Dates

April
15 - Brooklyn, NY - Littlefield*
16 - New York, NY - NYU Skirball Center for the Performing Arts*
17 - Philadelphia, PA - Union Transfer*
18 - Pittsburgh, PA - Rex Theater*
20 - Washington, DC - The Howard Theatre^
21 - Baltimore, MD - Metro Gallery***
22 - Charlottesville, VA - The Southern*
24 - Raleigh, NC - The Pour House*
25 - Atlanta, GA - Vinyl^
26 - Chattanooga, TN - Barking Legs Theater^
27 - Nashville, TN - Exit In*

May
03 - Milwaukee, WI - Shank Hall^
04 - Madison, WI - Majestic Theatre^
06 - Iowa City, IA - The Englert Theatre^
07 - Minneapolis, MN - Cedar Cultural Center^
08 - Omaha, NE - Waiting Room^
10 - Denver, CO - Daniels Hall @ Swallow Hill^
11 - Boulder, CO - eTown Hall
13 - Salt Lake City, UT - The State Room^
15 - Seattle, WA - The Triple Door (Early & Late show)^
16 - Bellingham, WA - The Wild Buffalo^
17 - Vancouver, BC - Biltmore Cabaret^
18 - Portland, OR - Doug Fir Lounge^
19 - Eugene, OR - WOW Hall^
21 - Sacramento, CA - Harlows^
22 - San Francisco, CA - The Independent^
23 - Los Angeles, CA - Largo at the Coronet^
24 - Los Angeles, CA - Troubadour^
25 - Pomona, CA - The Glass house*
27 - Las Vegas, NV - Vinyl at Hard Rock Hotel Casino*
28 - Phoenix, AZ - The Crescent Ballroom*
30 - Dallas, TX - The Kessler Theater*
31 - Austin, TX - The Parish*

June
01 - Houston, TX - Free Press Summer Fest
05 - St. Louis, MO - The Gramophone*
06 - Chicago, IL - Old Town School of Folk Music*
07 - Ann Arbor, MI - The Ark*
08 - Toronto, ON - The Mod Club*
09 - Buffalo, NY - Iron Works*
11 - Quebec, QC - Le Cercle**
12 - Montreal, QC - Cafe Campus**
13 - Burlington, VT - Signal Kitchen*
14 - Northhampton, MA - Iron Horse*
15 - Cambridge, MA - The Sinclair*

*- w/ Leif Vollebekk
^- w/ Ben Sollee
**- An Evening With William Fitzsimmons
***- w/ Jake Phillips

Thursday, March 27, 2014

SOTD: "Horse" - Walking Shapes



If you like this track, also check out their latest, "Woah Tiger" right HERE.

Monday, March 10, 2014

First Listen: The War On Drugs, 'Lost In The Dream' (NPR)



NPR Music is featuring a first listen of Lost In The Dream, the new album from The War On Drugs. I've been listening to the first single, Red Eyes, for a couple months now and absolutely love it. Hear the entire album HERE.

SOTD: "High Tide" - Lemaitre



Wednesday, February 26, 2014

SOTD: "If I Could Change Your Mind" - Haim




HAIM North American Tour Dates

4.9 | San Francisco, CA | The Fillmore
4. 10 | San Francisco, CA | The Fillmore
4.11 | Indio, CA | Coachella
4.16 | Pomona, CA | Fox Theater
4.17 | Las Vegas, NV | The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas
4.18 | Indio, CA | Coachella
4.22 | Houston, TX |House of Blues
4.23 | Austin, TX | Stubb's BBQ
4.24 | Dallas, TX | House of Blues
4.26 | Tulsa, OK | Cain's Ballroom
4.27 | Nashville, TN | Mercy Lounge
4.29 | Miami Beach, FL | The Fillmore
5.2 | Atlanta, GA | The Tabernacle
5.3 & 5.4| Tampa, FL | Big Guava Festival
5.6 | Carrboro, NC | Cat's Cradle
5.7 | Washington DC | 9:30 Club
5/8 | Washington DC | 9:30 Club
5.10 | New York, NY | Terminal 5
5.11 | New York, NY | Terminal 5
5.13 | Boston, MA | House of Blues
5.14 | Upper Derby, PA | Tower Theatre
5.15 | Toronto, ON | Kool Haus
5.17 | Chicago, IL | Riviera Theatre
5.19 | Minneapolis, MN | First Avenue
5.21 | Denver, CO | Ogden Theatre
5.22 | Salt Lake City, UT | The Depot
5.24 | Vancouver, BC | Malkin Bowl
5.25 | George, WA |Sasquatch Music Festival

Friday, February 14, 2014

SOTD: "Albatross" - Dark Mean



I stumbled upon Dark Mean earlier today via Pandora when I heard one of their other tracks, a song called "Lullaby". Looks like they've got a new track out which you can listen to above, along with streaming/downloading at their website HERE.

Monday, February 10, 2014

SOTD: "She's Not Gone Yet But She's Leaving" - The Fratellis



Some upcoming tour dates...

2/21: Atlanta, GA @ Hell Stage (at The Masquerade)
2/22: Orlando, FL @ The Social
2/26: Vancouver, BC @ VENUE
2/27: Seattle, WA @ The Crocodile
3/1: Toronto, ON @ Phoenix Concert Theatre

A 20th Anniversary: Welcome To The Cruel Word - Ben Harper



Hard to believe it's been twenty years since Ben Harper issued his debut album, Welcome To The New World. This is a favorite of mine, one of the albums that really developed my love of music. What stands out for me is how many quality tracks there are from beginning to end, one of those classic albums you can just play and let go until it finishes. Many of you are probably familiar with his work but for those that aren't, I've posted some of my favorites below.

The first video below was just issued by Ben Harper honoring the 20th anniversary of the album.





THE THREE OF US




DON'T TAKE THAT ATTITUDE TO YOUR GRAVE




WAITING ON AN ANGEL




FOREVER




WALK AWAY




I'LL RISE



Monday, January 27, 2014

BBC2 Interview with Augustines



BBC 2 recently posted a great interview between host Dermot O'Leary and Augustines. This is worth a listen and the highlight may be at the 19 minute mark where Augustines cover Phosphorescent's "Song For Zula", one of my favorites of 2013. You can listen to the full interview and performance, HERE.

Thursday, January 23, 2014

SOTD: "No Amount of Sound" - Into It. Over It



If you like the track above, you should also listen to the new live video for their song, Spinning Thread, which you can watch over at A.V. Club, HERE.

Upcoming Tour Dates:

JANUARY
23 - Minneapolis, MN - 7th Street Entry
24 - Lawrence, KS - Jackpot Music Hall
25 - Denver, CO - Marquis Theater
26 - Salt Lake City, UT - The Shred Shed
28 - Seattle, WA - The Vera Project
29 - Portland, OR - Branx
30 - San Francisco, CA - Bottom of the Hill
31 - Ventura, CA - Ventura Theatre Upper Deck

FEBRUARY
01 - Los Angeles, CA - The Echo
03 - San Diego, CA - Che Café
04 - Scottsdale, AZ - Pub Rock
06 - Austin, TX - Red 7
07 - Dallas, TX - Sons of Hermann Hall
08 - Houston, TX - Fitzgerald's
09 - Baton Rouge, LA - Spanish Moon
11 - Atlanta, GA - The Drunken Unicorn
12 - Gainesville, FL - High Dive
13 - Pembroke Pines, FL - The Talent Farm
14 - Orlando, FL - Backbooth
15 - Chapel Hill, NC - Local 506
16 - Richmond, VA - Strange Matter
18 - Washington, DC - DC9
19 - Asbury Park, NJ - Asbury Lanes
20 - Cambridge, MA - The Sinclair
21 - New York, NY - Bowery Ballroom
22 - Philadelphia, PA - Union Transfer
23 - New Haven, CT - Toad's Place
25 - Buffalo, NY - The Waiting Room
26 - Cleveland, OH - Grog Shop
27 - Columbus, OH - The Basement
28 - Detroit, MI - Pike Room @ The Crofoot

MARCH
01 - Chicago, IL - The Bottom Lounge

Tuesday, January 21, 2014

SOTD: "Top Notch" - Manchester Orchestra




Here's the first single from Manchester Orchestra's upcoming release Cope, due out April 1, 2014.

Download "Top Notch" from Cope at the band's website, themanchesterorchestra.com You can catch Manchester Orchestra on tour, dates listed below.

MARCH
6 - Anchorage, AK - Bear Tooth Theatre

APRIL
7 - Bristol, UK - The Fleece
8 - Birmingham, UK - The Glee Club
10 - London, UK - Scala
11 - Manchester, UK - Club Academy
12 -Glasgow, UK - SWG3

17 - Tampa, FL - The Ritz
18 - Ft. Lauderdale, FL - Revolution
19 - Orlando, FL - House of Blues Orlando
21 - Houston, TX - House of Blues Houston
22 - Austin, TX - Emo's
23 - Dallas, TX - House of Blues Dallas
24 - Lawrence, KS - Granada
25 - Denver, CO - Summit Music Hall
26 - Salt Lake City, UT - In The Venue
28 - Spokane, WA - Knitting Factory
29 - Seattle, WA - Neptune
30 - Portland, OR - Roseland Ballroom

MAY
02 - San Francisco, CA - The Fillmore
03 - Los Angeles, CA - House of Blues Los Angeles
04 - Anaheim, CA - House of Blues Anaheim
06 - San Diego, CA - House of Blues San Diego
07 - Tempe, AZ - Marquee
09 - Colorado Springs, CO - Black Sheep
10 - Omaha, NE - Sokol
11 - St. Louis, MO - The Pageant
12 - Madison, WI - Majestic
14 - Minneapolis, MN - Skyway
15 - Chicago, IL - HOB Chicago
16 - Grand Rapids, MI - Intersection
17 - Cincinnati, OH - Bogart's
19 - Toronto, ON - Opera House
20 - Buffalo, NY - Town Ballroom
22 - New York, NY - Terminal 5
23 - Boston, MA - House of Blues Boston
24 - Philadelphia, PA - Theatre of The Living Arts
25 - Philadelphia, PA - Theatre of The Living Arts
27 - Silver Spring, MD - The Fillmore Silver Spring
28 - Norfolk, VA - Norva
29 - Charlotte, NC - The Fillmore Charlotte
30 - Atlanta, GA - Tabernacle
31 - Nashville, TN - Cannery

Monday, January 13, 2014

SOTD: "Dead Hands" - The Skins



Dead Hands are currently on tour with Jake Bugg, upcoming dates listed below.

The Skins On Tour with Jake Bugg

Jan 14 2014 - Sound Academy - Toronto, ON
Jan 15 2014 - Royal Oak Music Theatre - Royal Oak, MI
Jan 17 2014 - First Avenue - Minneapolis, MN
Jan 18 2014 - Riviera Theater - Chicago, IL
Jan 21 2014 - Orpheum Theatre - Vancouver, BC
Jan 22 2014 - Crystal Ballroom - Portland, OR
Jan 23 2014 - Fox Theater - Oakland, CA
Jan 24 2014 - The Wiltern - Los Angeles, CA
Jan 28 2014 - House of Blues - Dallas, TX
Jan 29 2014 - House of Blues - Houston, TX
Jan 30 2014 - Civic Theatre - New Orleans, LA
Jan 31 2014 - Minglewood Hall - Memphis, TN
Feb 01 2014 - Ryman Auditorium - Nashville, TN

Against Me!: Transgender Dysphoria Blues Album Stream


NPR is currently streaming Against Me!'s upcoming release, Transgender Dysphoria Blues. You can listen to that HERE.

Wednesday, January 8, 2014

James Vincent McMorrow - Post Tropical - Album Stream


James Vincent McMorrow's new album, Post Tropical, is streaming right now on iTunes First Play. The album will be released next week, but you can listen here in advance: iTunesRadio.com/JVM

SOTD: "Black Me Out" - Against Me

Here is the first single off Against Me's upcoming release, Transgender Dysphoria Blues (Available January 21, 2014).



The band is currently on tour, dates listed below including shows in CT, NY & NJ this week.

JANUARY

08 – New Haven, CT – Toad’s Place

09 – Brooklyn, NY – Rough Trade

10 – Asbury Park, NJ – Stone Pony

11 – Lancaster, PA – Chameleon

12 – Virginia Beach, VA – The Jewish Mother

14 – Carrboro, NC – Cat’s Cradle

15 – Columbia, SC – New Brookland Tavern

16 – Greenville, SC – The Handlebar

17 – Birmingham, AL – WorkPlay Theatre

18 – Memphis, TN – The New Daisy Theatre

19 – Nashville, TN – Mercy Lounge

21 – Athens, GA – 40 Watt Club

22 – Jacksonville Beach, FL – Freebird Live

23 – Pensacola, FL – Vinyl Music Hall

24 – St. Petersburg, FL – State Theatre

25 – Orlando, FL – The Beacham Theater

26 – Ft. Lauderdale, FL – Culture Room

Monday, January 6, 2014

SOTD: "Nothing To Lose But Your Head" - Augustines

This song was featured in my "Top 50 Songs of 2013" but the official video came out this morning so I wanted to pass it along. Augustines' full album will be out in Early February so keep your eyes peeled for this one. They put on one of the better performances I saw last year, excited for their new release.



Thursday, January 2, 2014