Tremagazine

Matthew Good - "While We Were Hunting Rabbits"

2012-02-13T19:55:00.002-05:00

One of my favorite songs by Matthew Good, tough to hear in concert as he doesn't play it much. Tonight he posted a link on his twitter page to a video of him performing it on Saturday night in Portland. Enjoy!

Justin Vernon (Bon Iver) & The Roots - "Perth"

2012-02-13T19:52:00.001-05:00

Here's a great version of Bon Iver's "Perth" featuring the Roots from the Jimmy Fallon show.....

2012 Sasquatch! Festival Lineup

2012-02-03T12:00:00.001-05:00

See the video below for the 2012 Sasquatch! Festival Lineup at the Gorge....

Sasquatch! Music Festival 2012 Lineup Announcement from Sasquatch Festival on Vimeo.

SOTD: "Baby Drugs" - Tristen

2012-02-02T00:01:00.001-05:00

Here's the latest single from Tristen and you'll also find her upcoming tour dates opening for both Justin Townes Earle and Minus The Bear listed below.

Upcoming Tour Dates:

* = w/ Justin Townes Earle
All JTE Dates On Sale Friday 2/3 at 1pm EST
-Except Chicago Feb 10th, on sale Saturday 2/4
-And Little Rock 3/15 On Sale Now
# = w/ Minus The Bear

FEBRUARY
07 - Nashville, TN - Exit/In
24 - Charloote, NC - Trentmont Music Hall #
25 - Norfolk, VA - The Norva #

MARCH
12 - Nashville, TN - The Basement

SXSW Dates TBA

15 - Little Rock, AR - Rev Room

MAY
03 - Houston, TX - Fitzgerald's*
04 - Austin, TX - Antone's*
05 - Dallas, TX - Club Dada*
07 - Minneapolis, MN - Varsity Theatre*
08 - Madison, WI - Barrymore Theatre*
10 - Chicago, IL - Park West*
11 - Columbus, OH - The Bluestone*
12 - Toronto, ON - The Opera House*
14 - Northampton, MA - Pearl Street Nightclub*
16 - Somerville, MA - Somerville Theatre*
17 - New York, NY - Webster Hall*
18 - Alexandria, VA - The Birchmere Music Hall*
19 - Philadelphia, PA - Theatre of Living Arts*
20 - Annapolis, MD - Rams Head Tavern*
22 - Richmond, VA - Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens*
23 - Asheville, NC - The Grey Eagle*
24 - Knoxville, TN - The Square Room*

SOTD: "Black" - St. Vincent

2012-01-31T00:56:00.001-05:00

Thought this was interesting, St. Vincent covering Pearl Jam's "Black" at Bowery Ballroom about a week ago (skip to about 2:50 in the video).

90s Nostalgia

2012-01-29T19:30:00.013-05:00

For some reason I've been on a big 90s kick lately, going back and listening to a lot of stuff I was into in high school and college. Sometimes it's nice revisiting the past and getting nostalgic. So many of these songs take me to specific places, memories with friends, some great times back then. Thought I'd share a handful of songs, maybe from some lesser known bands to an extent. If you know these, chances are you haven't heard them in a long time. Something for a Sunday night before the week kicks off again.

Candlebox: "Cover Me". Off their debut album, "You" and "Far Behind" were the real popular tracks but this was always one of my favorite and a song I still listen to quite often. My buddy Joe and I saw these guys with the Flaming Lips in high school at the New Haven Coliseum (terrible venue by the way). Strange combination of bands for sure and funny that the Lips actually opened up!

Live: "White, Discussion". Live's "Throwing Copper" is not only one of my favorite albums of the 90s but also one of my favorite all time, still listen to it a lot. This version is actually from MTV Unplugged, absolutely love this performance.

Blues Traveler: "Mountains Win Again" . Funny Blues Traveler story....my freshman year in college I was sitting in my dorm room one night when the phone rang.... I answered and on the other end of the guy asking if Mark was there. Mark was my roommate and we shared a phone line but he wasn't around when I picked up the call. When I asked who was calling, the guy said "John Popper" (who is the lead singer of Blues Traveler"). Of course I gave him shit for a minute because I figured it was a buddy screwing with us but after a couple minutes I realized it actually was him.

Mark had written him a letter basically telling him how big a fan of the band he was and how much their music meant to him, etc. I said that I'd run out and find him (this was pre cell phone so not as easy as today) and ran to the dorm next door where I told him the story. A bunch of us went back to the room and sure enough John called back right when he said he would. Long story short, Blues Traveler was playing the Tower Theater in Philly a couple nights later and John had us as guests with free tickets and we got to hang with the band after the show. Truly an awesome experience. Every time I hear this song, I think of that night.

Dig: "Believe". Never saw these guys. No idea what ever became of them. Love this tune.

Possum Dixon: "Watch The Girl Destroy Me". Pretty sure my buddy Tom found this one, definitely think of driving around in his car when this one comes on.

The Refreshments: "Mekong". My buddy Chris and I love this album, used to listen to it all the time.

Charlatans: "Can't Get Out Of Bed". This song was actually pretty big for awhile. My buddy Joe and I used to hang at this record shop called "Secret Sounds" in Bridgeport, CT. We were there all the time, got to know the owner and other staff real well and they played a lot of cool stuff. This song always reminds me of hanging out in there just searching through the used cd bins.

The Samples: "Weight of the World". Easily one of my favorite bands ever, and one of the biggest influences on my love of music. I have so many great memories of seeing The Samples in concert, both in high school and road trips in college. Amazing that the Dave Matthews Band use to open for these guys! So many amazing songs, hard to even pick just one.

Villanova Junction: "Saturday Morning Feel". Always nostalgic listening to this album. These were high school buddies of mine.....Joe Beleznay, Tim Procaccini, Rich Wolf and John Mayer. The vocals sure sound different but you can hear some of John's early guitar work in these songs. Joe's a really talented singer, tremendous voice (which you'll hear in the harmonies).

SOTD: "Alone" - Trampled By Turtles

2012-01-25T00:50:00.003-05:00

I saw Trampled By Turtles last year at the Newport Folk Festival and thought they were excellent. Here's the band's latest single, "Alone" which will be on their upcoming album "Stars and Satellites" , due out April 10th. They've also released some upcoming tour dates which you'll find listed below.

Alone by TrampledbyTurtles

April
11 - Minneapolis, MN @ First Avenue
12 - Madison, WI @ Barrymore Theatre
13 - Chicago, IL @ The Metro
14 - Pittsburgh, PA @ Mr. Smalls Theatre
15 - Toronto, ON @ Lee’s Palace
17 - New York, NY @ Webster Hall
18 - Boston, MA @ Paradise Rock Club
19 - Syracuse, NY @ The Wescott Theatre
20 - Washington, DC @ 9:30 Club
21 - Philadelphia, PA @ Union Transfer
22 - Charlottesville, VA @ The Jefferson Theater
24 - Carrboro, NC @ Cat’s Cradle
25 - Charlotte, NC @ Neighborhood Theatre
26 - Asheville, NC @ Orange Peel
27 - Atlanta, GA @ Variety Playhouse
28 - Cincinnati, OH @ The Taft Theatre

May
16 - Lawrence, KS @ Granada Theatre
19 - Salt Lake City, UT @ The Depot
21 - San Diego, CA @ Belly Up Tavern
22 - Los Angeles, CA @ Music Box
24 - Yosemite, CA @ Strawberry Festival
25 - Portland, OR @ Crystal Ballroom
26 - Vancouver, BC @ Vogue Theatre

June
15 - Bayfield, WI @ Big Top Chautauqua

July
27 - Lyons, CO @ RockyGrass Festival

Eddie Vedder US Solo Tour

2012-01-24T20:59:00.003-05:00

Eddie Vedder has announced a 13-city U.S. solo tour, starting in Las Vegas, NV on April 11th and ending in Orlando, FL on May 16th. Dates and venues below, tickets go on sale February 3rd to the public. You can find more info at the Pearl Jam website HERE.

April 11 Las Vegas, NV The Pearl
April 13 Phoenix, AZ Comerica Theater
April 16 Albuquerque, NM Kiva Auditorium
April 19 Tulsa, OK Brady Theater
April 22 Houston, TX Jones Hall For The Performing Arts
April 25 San Antonio, TX Lila Cockrell Theatre
April 27 Austin, TX Bass Concert Hall
April 30 Dallas, TX Music Hall At Fair Park
May 3 New Orleans Jazz Fest, LA New Orleans Jazz Festival
May 8 Jacksonville, FL Moran Theater
May 10 Clearwater, FL Ruth Eckerd Hall
May 13 Ft Lauderdale, FL Broward Center For The Performing Arts
May 16 Orlando, FL Bob Carr Performing Arts Center

SOTD: "Rainy Day" - Young Hines

2012-01-24T00:01:00.001-05:00

Young Hines will make his SXSW debut and tour with Brendan Benson in May. The first track off his new album is "Rainy Day," which you can stream below. If you like this one, download HERE.

Young Hines - Rainy Day by Evanschl

SOTD: "Home Again" - Michael Kiwanuka

2012-01-20T00:15:00.001-05:00

My buddy Wayne sent me this one earlier in the week, real good tune...

Christopher Paul Stelling: New Video & US Tour

2012-01-14T12:03:00.008-05:00

Christopher Paul Stelling has announced some upcoming US tour dates in advance of his debut album "Songs of Praise & Scorn" due out Feb. 21st. I saw CPS perform last year at the Mercury Lounge in an opening slot for William Elliot Whitmore and thought he was excellent, this is an album I'm really looking forward to.

Stelling has also set up a pre-order for the album via his bandcamp page- fans who pre-order the CD or vinyl version of the record will get an immediate digital download of the album. Songs of Praise & Scorn was recorded, mostly live, this past summer above a working funeral home in Louisville, KY.

Watch CPS Perform “Solar Flares” Live At The Indaba Loft below

Upcoming CPS Tour Dates
1/19 – New York, NY – Mercury Lounge (w/ Jonathan Wilson)
2/18 – New York, NY – Rockwood Music Hall Stage 2 (Record Release Show)
2/20 – Richmond, VA – The Camel
2/21 - Charlottesville, VA - The Garage
2/22 – Lexington, KY – Al’s Bar
2/24 – Memphis, TN – Folk Alliance (Memphis Room, 7:30pm)
2/26 – Orlando, FL – McRaney’s Tavern
2/27 - Daytona Beach, FL - Tir Na Nog
2/28 – Miami, FL – Bardot
2/29 – Jacksonville, FL – Jack Rabbits
3/01 – Tampa, FL – Rock The Park (6:45pm)
3/01 - Sarasota, FL - Cock and Bull (9pm)
3/02 – Savannah, GA – Sentient Bean
3/04 – Greensboro, NC – The Green Bean
3/05 - Asheville, NC - 474 Haywood
3/07 – Chapel Hill, NC – Nightlight
3/08 – Birmingham, AL – Samford University
3/09 – Nashville, TN – TBD
3/10 – Knoxville, TN – Preservation Pub
3/11 – Johnson City, TN – Acoustic Coffeehouse
3/14-18 - Austin, TX – SXSW

Craig Finn: New Track & Tour Dates

2012-01-14T11:38:00.005-05:00

Craig Finn (of The Hold Steady) has just premiered "New Friend Jesus," another new track from his debut album 'Clear Heart Full Eyes" which you can listen to below.

Craig Finn - New Friend Jesus

The album is now available to pre-order HERE. The first 500 to pre-order the CD will receive a limited edition bandana.

In addition to his headlining U.S. tour starting February 1, Finn has confirmed a European tour supporting The Felice Brothers starting on March 13. See below for all upcoming dates.

Craig Finn 2012 Tour Dates:
2/01 - Dallas, TX @ Club Dada*
2/02 - Oklahoma City, OK @ The Conservatory*
2/03 - Omaha, NE @ Slowdown*
2/04 - Minneapolis, MN @ Triple Rock Social Club* SOLD OUT
2/06 - Iowa City, IA @ The Mill*
2/07 - Chicago, IL @ Empty Bottle*
2/08 - Detroit, MI @ The Lager House*
2/09 - Columbus, OH @ The Basement*
2/10 - St Louis, MO @ Off Broadway*
2/11 - Kansas City, MO @ Record Bar*
2/13 - Denver, CO @ Larimer Lounge*
2/19 - San Diego, CA @ Casbah*
2/20 - Los Angeles, CA @ Troubadour*
2/21 - San Francisco, CA @ Noise Pop at Bottom of the Hill
2/23 - Portland, OR @ The Doug Fir Lounge*
2/24 - Seattle, WA @ The Crocodile*
2/27 - Ringwood, NJ Live @ Drew's House
2/28 - Allston, MA @ Great Scott$
2/29 - New York, NY @ Mercury Lounge (Early Show)$ SOLD OUT
2/29 - New York, NY @ Mercury Lounge (Late Show)$ SOLD OUT
3/01 - Hoboken, NJ @ Maxwell's$
3/02 - Washington, DC @ Rock N Roll Hotel$
3/03 - Chapel Hill, NC @ Local 506$
3/05 - Atlanta, GA @Earl$
3/13 - London, UK @ MacBeth ^ SOLD OUT
3/14 - Birmingham, UK @ HMV Institute ^
3/15 - Dublin, Ireland @ Academy ^
3/16 - Belfast, Northern Ireland - Spring & Airbrake ^
3/17 - Glasgow, Scotland - ABC ^
3/18 - Manchester, UK @ Academy 2 ^
3/20 - London, UK @ Koko ^ SOLD OUT
3/22 - Brussels, Belgium @ AB Box ^
3/23 - Nijmegen, Netherlands @ Doornroosje ^
3/24 - Gronigen, Netherlands @ Oosterpoort ^
3/26 - Berlin, Germany @ Postbahnhof ^
3/27 - Utrecht, Netherlands @ Tivoli ^

* - w/ Mount Moriah
$ - w/ Marcellus Hall
^ - w/ The Felice Brothers

SOTD: "My Home" - Nneka

2012-01-11T00:01:00.001-05:00

The Joy Formidable 2012 Tour Dates

2012-01-10T22:45:00.003-05:00

Some upcoming tour dates from The Joy Formidable....

The Joy Formidable Tour Dates

Mar 12 - San Francisco, CA @ The Independent *
Mar 13 - San Francisico, CA @ The Independent *
Mar 14 - Los Angeles, CA @ The Music Box *
Mar 17 - Denver, CO @ The Bluebird Theatre *
Mar 19 - Minneapolis, MN @ Fine Line Music Café *^
Mar 20 - Madison, WI @ Majestic Theatre *^
Mar 22 - Bloomington, IN @ The Bluebird *^
Mar 23 - Cincinnati, OH @ 20th Century Theatre *^
Mar 24 - Atlanta, GA @ Masqureade *^
Mar 25 - Asheville, NC @ Orange Peel *^
Mar 26 - Washington, DC @ 9:30 Club *^
Mar 28 - New York City, NY @ Terminal 5 *
Mar 29 - Philadelphia, PA @ Union Transfer *^
Mar 31 - Montreal, QC @ Cabaret Mile-End *^
Apr 02 - Toronto, ON @ Lee's Palace *^

* with A Place To Bury Strangers
^ with Exitmusic

http://www.thejoyformidable.com/

Rodrigo y Gabriela and C.U.B.A. Tour

2012-01-10T22:39:00.003-05:00

From ATO Records......

ATO Records is excited to announce Rodrigo y Gabriela's spring 2012 tour dates in support of their soon to be released album Area 52 (January 24th). Area 52 contains nine of Rod and Gab's favorite songs from their own catalogue re-arranged and recorded in Havana with legendary producer Peter Asher and a 13-piece Cuban orchestra comprised of some of the country's finest young players. This spring, Rodrigo y Gabriela will be bringing the band C.U.B.A. on the road in order to showcase the thrilling and dynamic hybrid of metal, latin and jazz featured on the album in a live setting. It will mark the first time in their careers that Rodrigo y Gabriela have toured and performed with a backing band. In addition to the coming tour, Rodrigo y Gabriela were recently confirmed to perform on the upcoming 38th season of the long running tv series Austin City Limits.

Trailer for Area 52:

Upcoming Tour Dates Below:

Ticket pre-sales start Friday, January 13, 2012 @ 10am venue time.
Public on-sales start Friday, January 20, 2012.

www.rodgab.com

APRIL
03 - Seattle, WA - The Paramount Theatre
04 - Portland, OR - Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall
05 - Oakland, CA - The Fox Theatre
07 - Hollywood, CA - Hollywood Palladium
10 - Broomfield, CO - 1STBANK Center
12 - Chicago, IL - The Chicago Theatre
13 - Milwaukee, WI - Riverside Theater
14 - Detroit, MI - Royal Oak Music Theatre
16 - Toronto, CA - Massey Hall
20 - New York, NY - Radio City Music Hall
21 - Upper Darby, PA - Tower Theatre
23 - Boston, MA - Orpheum Theatre
25 - Washington, DC - Warner Theatre
26 - Charlottesville, VA - Charlottesville Pavilion
28 - Atlanta, GA - Tabernacle

MAY
01 - Miami, FL - The Fillmore
04 - New Orleans, LA - Jazz Fest
05 - Austin, TX - Stubb's

Coachella 2012 Lineup

2012-01-09T20:39:00.001-05:00

Coachella's 2012 lineup was just announced, and it is SICK. Headliners: Black Keys, Radiohead, Dre & Snoop..... are you kidding me?!?!! So very bummed that I won't be there but to all my friends going, hope you have an AMAZING time.

The Head & The Heart: Austin City Limits

2012-01-05T19:43:00.004-05:00

In September of 2011, The Head & The Heart recorded a performance for Austin City Limits at the Moody Theater in Austin, Tx.

The episode will premiere this Saturday, January 7th at around 11:00 p.m. ET/PT on PBS! Make sure to check your local listings for an exact time near you and check http://www.acltv.com/ for all other information.

The episode will be available to stream online starting at midnight on Sunday, January 8th at http://video.pbs.org/program/austin-city-limits/

Some previews....

Behind the Scenes

The Head & The Heart at ACL: Behind the Scenes from Jonathan Jackson on Vimeo.

Song Clip- Down In The Valley

The Head and the Heart "Down in the Valley" from Austin City Limits on Vimeo.

SOTD: "The Sparrow & The Wolf" - James Vincent McMorrow

2012-01-04T00:01:00.001-05:00

James Vincent McMorrow put out a beautiful album last year, titled "Early In The Morning". I was surfing around last night when I found this great version of one of my favorite songs off the album. Tremendous stuff, really digging his sound.

Frank Ocean @ Bowery Ballroom 11/28/11

2012-01-03T22:33:00.011-05:00

A few weeks back I went to check out Frank Ocean at the Bowery Ballroom with some friends. Frank was solo on stage, mostly singing tracks off his album "Nostalgia, Ultra". I wrote about him in my Favorite 50 songs of 2011 but I was really impressed with the show. He's got a strong voice and even though he had backing tracks for the song, there was no band, he was literally a one-man show on stage. Highlights for me were definitely "Novacane", "Swim Good" and "Dust". I look forward to seeing Frank perform again soon, hopefully in 2012.

I wanted to share some pictures a friend of mine took at the show because they're really good. Take a look below and check out his website Ike Love Jones right HERE for some other great shots.

50 Favorite Songs of 2011 (Part II)

2011-12-22T00:01:00.051-05:00

Okay, here we go with Part II, the other half of my favorite songs of 2011....

"Somebody That I Used To Know" - Gotye (from the album "Making Mirrors")

I first heard this song when a friend of mine posted it on her Facebook page a couple months ago. I love the sound of this tune, almost reminds me of Sting singing over a Manu Chao beat.

No you didn't have to stoop so low
Have your friends collect your records and then change your number
I guess that I don't need that though
Now you're just somebody that I used to know

"No Church In The Wild" - Kanye West & Jay Z featuring Frank Ocean (from the album "Watch The Throne")

My favorite track off the "Watch The Throne" collaboration. Good combo, Kanye, Jay Z, Frank Ocean..... instant success.

Human beings in a mob
What's a mob to a king? What's a king to a God?
What's a God to a non-believer who don't believe in anything?
Will he make it out alive? Alright, alright, no church in the wild

"Non-Populus" - Matthew Good (from the album "Lights of Endangered Species"

A repeat artist from my first list of 25, this was absolutely one of my favorite albums of the year. I could have found two or three more songs to put on this list but kept it at two. An excellent album that's worth picking up if you like the two songs I've posted in the list. Here's a great live performance of this song from last month.....

What you escape
Let it be done to you
What you take away
Let it be done to you
For what you war
Let it be done to you
What you ignore
Let it be done to you
Oh, let it be done to you

"Santa Fe" - Beirut (from the album "The Rip Tide")

I'm a big fan of this band, love their albums and they always put on a great live show. This track really stood out to me on their latest album.

Your days in one
This day undone
(The kind that breaks under)
All day at once
(for me, for you)
I'm just too young
(And what of my heart)

"Blood & Guts" - Middle Brother (from the self titled album)

Another song from Middle Brother, this was an album that I just had on rotation all year. This song in particular actually didn't really make a huge impact on me until I saw the band perform at the Music Hall of Williamsburg early in the year. Taylor Goldsmith just completely owned this song, extremely powerful to hear in concert.

I decided to post a version below that I saw at the Newport Folk Festival this summer, great performance with members of Dawes and Deer Tick as the backing band. I love at 4:35 when you hear the crowd come in and pick up the vocals. Amazing tune.

The older we get, the older we are.
I woke up this morn driving my car
And that is not how it's supposed to be.

Am I killing time or is it killing me?

And I wanna sing with blood and guts
So someone will know that I'm here
I wanna sing with blood and guts

"This Old Dark Machine" - James Vincent McMorrow (from the album "Early In The Morning")

I was sent this album during the summer and spent some time giving it a good listen over the last few months. This is a really chill album, very listenable from start to finish, nice to just throw on and let it play through. I think fans of Fleet Foxes would really dig this album.

near the town where we were living
was an old abandoned farm
every year we’d plant an orchid
in the shelter of it’s arm
to protect us from the madness
of the future still to come
it will be like this forever
i will keep you safe from harm

"Perth" - Bon Iver (from the self-titled album)

Another great song from this album. So many ways to go with this album but this was one of the songs I listen to most. I grew up playing in big bands (school bands) and every time I hear this song I think how fun it would have been to play something like this. So many layers, the horns, the strings, the percussion..... I love the structure. I've attached a live version because I think it gives a better sense of all the pieces coming together.

still alive who you love

"Baby Missiles" - The War On Drugs (from the album "Slave Ambient")

I saw these guys at the CAMEO GALLERY at the same show with Caveman, what a great bill, especially for such a tiny venue. This is one of my favorite driving songs of the year, has a great beat, great energy.

He wanna leave but he don't know how
He wanna drive but he don't know why

"Down By The Water" - The Decemberists (from the album "The King Is Dead")

Listening to this song I almost feel like I'm back in high school listening to REM......

So knock me down, tear me up
But I would bear it all broken just to fill my cup
Down by the water and down by the old main drag

"St. Peter's Cathedral" - Death Cab For Cutie (from the album "Codes & Keys")

This was an album that I haven't seen mentioned on many "best of" lists this year but I think it's real solid and has some great songs. This was my favorite of the bunch, especially love the ending (from 3:20 to the end).

It's either quite a master plan
Or just chemicals that help us understand
That when our hearts stop ticking
This is the end
And there's nothing past this

"Tarantula/Holding On" - Delay Trees (from the self-titled album)

The Delay Trees making their second appearance on my list. Like I said in the first half, I've really enjoyed this album and it's been in a solid rotation for me most of the year. If you like the two songs posted, you'll love the rest of the album.

Through every morning
Through the fields of sleep
I'm always found in a corner
But I'm holding on

"Words" - Givers (from the album "In Light")

A friend of mine sent me this album a couple months ago and I've been listening ever since. Real good album, reminds me a bit of Vampire Weekend.

The waves high, slow tide, see them, go
You’ll see them again, you’ll see them again
And if the waves ride high, then so will I
Before you know, before you know, before you know, you’ll know
You’ll see them again, you’ll see them again

"Truth" - Alexander featuring RZA (remix from the self titled album)

You might not recognize the name "Alexander" but this is a side project of Alex Ebert from the group Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros. One of the first songs I was sent this year, listened to it constantly, never got old. Love the guest appearance from RZA of the Wu-Tang Clan.

I've grown up some
Different kind of fighter
And when the darkness come let it inside you
Your darkness is shining
My darkness is shining
Have faith in myself
Truth

"Fire Away" - Dawes (from the album "Nothing Is Wrong")

Another favorite off of Dawes' latest album. You can probably hear the influence as Jackson Browne lends backup vocals on this track.

this ones going out to you
if you ever start to slip
and you learn to read between these lines you've drawn

when what is wrong and what is right
seem more like just the ocean and the ship
and the straight line that you've followed here is gone

"Act On Impulse" - We Were Promised Jetpacks (from the album "In The Pit Of The Stomach")

I love the energy in WWPJ's music and this song falls right in line.

We act alone
We act on impulse

"Turn Around" - Chamberlin (from the album "Bitter Blood")

This was actually the first Chamberlin song I heard and I fell in love with it instantly. I immediately got my hands on this album and like I alluded to in Part I, this quickly became one of my favorite albums of 2011.... and stayed there all year.

please don't make me lie
the loyal are the left behind
and I won't turn around

"Heartbeat" - Childish Gambino (from the album "Camp")

You may know Childish Gambino better as actor Donald Glover from the tv show "Community". The guy is obviously really talented, this is an album worth getting your hands on if you don't have it yet.

I come around when you least expect me
I'm sitting at the bar when your glass is empty
You thinking that the songs coming on to tempt me
I need to be alone like the way you left me

"Book of James" - We Are Augustines (from the album "Rise Ye Sunken Ships")

Powerful song lyrically, equally powerful video.

I guess your either headin' somewhere or endin up somewhere..
cause I tried the bible, tried the bottle, tried the needle, tried to
love people
And in the end there ain't nothing to say
And in the end there ain't nothing to say anyway
And i stand here in my shoes, unable to move
my hat in my hands, at the bottom of the ocean.

"Hold On" - Alabama Shakes (from the self-titled EP)

Another great tune from the Shakes, their full length album in 2012 cannot come out fast enough.

So, bless my heart
bless my mind
I got so much to do, ain't got much time

"Can't Keep" - Eddie Vedder (from the album "Ukulele Songs")

This is actually an older song, previously released by Pearl Jam on the album "Riot Act". I always loved this song and it isn't played live all that much but I think it's a great tune. Vedder redid it a bit for his Ukulele album and I think I even might prefer this version better (and it's a damn cool video). Definitely worth sharing......

I won't wait for answers
oh you can't keep me here

"Lonely Boy" - The Black Keys (from the album "El Camino")

Not only a super catchy song but this has to be the video of the year. Amazing.

Oh, oh-oh I got a love that keeps me waiting

"Chains of Love" - Ryan Adams (from the album "Ashes & Fire")

Probably wouldn't be a complete list for me without including a Ryan Adams song, one of my favorite artists. This latest release is solid the whole way through but this track stands out to me.

Clouds moving over the house
I think about those days
Wish I had something to relax my mind
Send me off to heaven I've got nothing but time

"Novacane" - Frank Ocean (from the album "nostalgia, Ultra")

This was actually the first track I heard from Frank Ocean and it immediately caught my ear. I made sure to download everything I could shortly thereafter and have been listening to all his material since. Can't wait for his next album.

Met her at Coachella
I went to see Jigga
she went to see Z-trip
Perfect

"Go Outside" - Cults (from the self-titled album)

Just think this is a catchy tune.

I think it's good to go out
cause if you don't you'll never make a memory that will stay
I think that you should wake up
I think I want to live my life and you're just in my way

"Million Dollar Bill" - Middle Brother (from the self-titled album)

This song actually appeared on both this album and the Dawes album this year. I prefer this version because I like each singer taking a verse and then I love where the harmony kicks in at 2:25, reminds me of Crosby, Stills & Nash.

When it hits me that shes left me alone
When I finally move on with my life
Her goodbye written into stone
And her shadow moving through the night

Well, that does it for my 2011 list. Thanks for reading and listening and a special thanks to everyone that's emailed, texted, tweeted or passed along the list to others, I can't tell you how much I appreciate it. Hopefully you were able to find some stuff you hadn't heard previously and can enjoy over the holidays and into 2012.

50 Favorite Songs of 2011 (Part I)

2011-12-19T00:01:00.075-05:00

Last year I spent some time putting together my 50 favorite songs of 2010. I got a lot of great feedback from the project and I figured I'd put together another list this year. I actually started a bit earlier this time around, tracking songs since about July and just adding to my list throughout the year. I'm sure many of you will know a good portion of the songs but I'm hoping you can find some gems in there that you haven't heard until now. I was also able to see many of these bands throughout the year so you'll see some links to recaps/videos/pictures that I took throughout 2011 at various venues in the writeups for each song.

I've split the list into two days of 25 songs, you'll find some repeat bands over the entries from my favorite albums of 2011 (I mean your favorite albums of the year should have at least 2-3 of your favorite songs, right?) Anyways, probably easiest said, this list represents the soundtrack to my 2011. A little something for everyone, a little something for every mood. Almost everything is available on Itunes so you'll be able to pick any of these up if you like something you hear. Hope you enjoy this, as always thanks for reading/listening along! In no particular order, I present to you the Tremagazine favorite 50 songs of 2011 (Part I)........

"Rolling In The Deep" - Adele (From the album, "21")

This is a fantastic album, what a tremendous talent Adele is. Hoping I can finally see her live in 2012.....

Throw your soul through every open door
Count your blessings to find what you look for
Turn my sorrow into treasured gold
You'll pay me back in kind and reap just what you sow

"Swim Good" - Frank Ocean (From the album, "nostalgia, ULTRA")

If you don't have this album, you have to get it today. One of my favorites from 2011, you can simply search for it on google and find a free download as Ocean actually released this over the internet. I just got to see him perform at the Bowery Ballroom a few weeks ago and loved the show, the guy is a real talent. Expect big things from him in 2012.

I'm about to drive in the ocean
I'mma try to swim from something bigger than me
Kick off my shoes and swim good, and swim good

"The Honest Truth" - Typhoon (from the EP "A New Kind of House")

I had this EP sent to me very early in the year and I can honestly say that it's something that never left my rotation in 2011. This is easily one of my favorite songs of the year. Really interesting band with double-digit members, percussion, horns, etc. Caught them at the MERCURY LOUNGE and it was everything I hoped for. Look forward to catching them again in 2012.

So be kind to all of your neighbors
Be kind to all of your neighbors
‘Cuz they’re just like you
They’re just like you

"Fools" - Chamberlin (from the album "Bitter Blood")

Another band I got into early in 2011, I was fortunate to catch them at the Communion Showcase at PUBLIC ASSEMBLY in Brooklyn this year. As much as I love this album, I thought their live performance was even better. In my opinion, one of the most underrated bands around right now. People definitely need to check these guys out, the album is fantastic and these guys are just a really talented group.

Came across pain face to face,
With what I lost

"My Way Back Home" - Dawes (from the album "Nothing Is Wrong")

Following up their tremendous debut album "North Hills", Dawes put out another great album in 2011. I got to see these guys a few different times this year (most recently at MAXWELL'S) and they never disappoint. At about 4:30 of the clip I've posted, you find the lyrics I listed below. Beautiful harmonies from the Goldsmith brothers, love this.

I admit that these answers that I seek
Are all to questions I’ve never known
But I pray to keep on looking for as long as I can roam
And when the world finally fulfills me
I will not forget my way back home

"Cassette 2012" - Delay Trees (from the self-titled album)

I was sent this album earlier this year and I've really gotten into it. Hard to find a lot of information on these guys as they're from Finland and I don't believe they've played the US. They were scheduled for SXSW in 2012 but I just checked their homepage and it looks like that's been cancelled unfortunately. I'm hoping Delay Trees makes it over at some point but for now I'll keep enjoying this album.

"World ends in 2012" - headlines straight from hell
But don't lose your belief
Don't lose your belief, not now

"Blue Eyes" - Middle Brother (from the self-titled album)

I've written about this collaboration at length but for those that don't know, Middle Brother is made up of the lead singers of three bands: John McCauley of Deer Tick, Taylor Goldsmith of Dawes, and Matt Vazquez of Delta Spirit. Another group I was lucky enough to see a couple times this year. I'm a big fan of all three of their bands so it's no surprise I love this album but it's one of the best of the year, the harmonies throughout the album are outstanding. I had a hard time picking songs as I felt I could have gone five or six different ways but you'll see three that made my list and here's the first..... (and while you're at it, check out THIS live version I recorded this past summer in Newport, Rhode Island at this tiny club called the Newport Blues Cafe).

Just a look at you make my heart skip
And to think of you does jumping jacks
Told myself that you're the one
And I told myself I could get you back
When I came back you still werent mine
Then I left again and you still werent mine
I'm back again so just be mine
I am so tired of runnin'

"Grown Ocean" - Fleet Foxes (from the album "Helplessness Blues")

Sometimes a song just hits you from the first time you hear it and that's how this song was for me. Absolutely loved it the first time I heard it and it's still my favorite track on the album.

In that dream I could hardly contain it
All my life I will wait to attain it

"No Silver" - Chris Bathgate (from the album "Salt Year")

One of the singer-songwriters I was introduced to in 2011, thought this song had a great feel to it. Really enjoy the backing strings and percussion.

I ain't got no silver, I ain't got no gold
In dead street daylight, and shadow
And in a dark so cold, and calm
I'm all callow and gone

"Get Away" - Yuck (from the self-titled album)

The first time I heard this album, I felt like I was back in the mid-90s and was pretty surprised that this was a young band from London. It reminds me so much of that "alternative" sound, definitely hear some Sonic Youth influence in there.

not even the pain kicks in
tell me when the pain kicks in

oh i can't get away

"Stamp" - The Rural Alberta Advantage (from the album "Departing")

Just a great rock song, the tempo and drumming is fantastic. Saw these guys perform at Coachella earlier this year, if you want to check out the live video I shot HERE.

And the hardest thing about this love is that it's never gonna last.
And the hardest thing about this love is that you're never comin' back.

"Down in the Valley" - The Head & The Heart (from the self-titled album)

These guys have really taken off during 2011. I got into them early in the year and got to see them at the Newport Folk Festival over the summer but they've become very popular over the last few months. I think they've got some of the most well written songs that you'll find on this list. Add that to some tremendous harmonies and you've got an easy combination for success.

Down in the valley with
Whiskey rivers
These are the places you will find me hidin'
These are the places I will always go

"Calgary" - Bon Iver (from the self-titled album)

What a beautiful album this is, Calgary is one of my favorites but again another album in which I probably could have gone in five different directions. Over the last few years, Bon Iver has put out two of my favorite pieces of work. I got to see them perform this summer at the Prospect Park Bandshell in Brooklyn and it great to hear the majority of this album live. Lead singer Justin Vernon added numerous instruments this time around and this album really showcases the backing band.

Don’t you cherish me to sleep

"The Day Is Coming" - My Morning Jacket (from the album "Circuital")

My Morning Jacket has become one of my favorite bands over the past few years, one of the best live acts around right now. This is my favorite track off their latest release....

Bang bang, on the door
You opened, not knowing what for
If opportunity, rears its head
Will you answer, or stay home in bed

"Helena Beat" - Foster The People (from the album "Torches")

I first heard of these guys right at the beginning of 2011 when my buddy Chris emailed me from California saying that this band was starting to get a lot of airtime out there. From that point I started following them and caught them a couple times both at Coachella and later in the year in NYC. "Pumped Up Kicks" was obviously a huge hit for them this year but there's about 3-4 songs I prefer. Really fun album, a lot of energy.

Yeah yeah and I’m alright.
I took a sip of something poison but I’ll hold on tight.

"How It Goes" - Matthew Good (from the album "Lights of Endangered Species")

I've been a huge fan of Matthew Good's music for years now, and really enjoyed his latest release from 2011. He mostly toured throughout Canada during the later months of 2011 but will return to the US early this year, I plan on seeing him in NYC in early March. This is definitely one of my favorite albums of the year and here's my top track....

Pushing against the waves, keelhaul years of the same program
Some of the faces change but not the game and not the tune
Because you know how it goes

"Dead and Gone" - The Black Keys (from the album "El Camino")

Just got a chance to see The Black Keys at their record release party for their latest album at WEBSTER HALL. This song jumped out at me and I've been listening to it constantly since the show. Fantastic album overall and this is one of the highlights.

Don't call me, I'll call you
Is what you say, I'll obey

"Yesterday Was Hard On All Of Us" - Fink (from the album "Perfect Darkness")

To be honest, I don't remember when I first came across this song. I think this album showed up in my inbox one day and I finally started listening to it a few months ago. This song really stuck out to me, almost reminded me of an old Ben Harper tune.

Where do we go from here
Where do we go
We’ve got nothing we can trust and nothing we can sell
That’s for sure

"My Time" - Caveman (from the album "Coco Beware")

One of the cooler bands I came across this year, this song is just super catchy. I got to see Caveman perform at the tiny CAMEO GALLERY in Brooklyn earlier this year.

And you would say that you'd never
Found a way for all the others
It's my time, my time, my time, my time

"Chapel Song" - We Are Augustines (from the album "Rise Ye Sunkin' Ships")

If you're listening to this song and recognize the lead singer's voice, it's probably because you've heard the band Pela which Billy McCarthy fronted for many years. Pela has since disbanded but Billy carries on with Eric Sanderson and Rob Allen as We Are Augustines. I had really dug Pela and even saw them a couple times so I was excited when this album was released in 2011. Some great songwriting on this album and Mccarthy's vocals are as powerful as ever. Highly recommend picking this one up if you like this tune.

Well there goes my girl
Into the chapel
Now she's walking down the aisle
And it feels just like a mile

"Natural Disaster" - City & Colour (from the album "Little Hell")

Another solid showing from City & Colour (Dallas Green), this song's a bit more upbeat than his usual C&C stuff but it's my favorite from the album.

Whether a natural disaster ripped it from it's foundation
Or an economic tragedy tore apart it's family
They're all empty.

"A Conversation About Life & Death On New Year's Eve" - Scattered Trees (from the album "Sympathy")

There are several good songs on this album but this is the track that constantly stands out to me. "Sympathy" deals with some pretty heavy material if you get into the lyrics but it's a well written album and I've enjoyed it throughout the year. I got to see these guys perform at BROOKLYN BOWL back in August and liked the show quite a bit.

that everybody's falling apart
you said it doesn't haunt you like it haunts me
that everybody's falling apart
you said i'll be there when you wake up from this dream
when you turn your life into a story

"Make Believe" - Deer Tick (from the album "Divine Providence")

I write about these guys all the time, one of my favorite current bands. Saw them several times this year both in Rhode Island and in NYC, always a fun show. This is a catchy song, I liked it from the first time I heard it and have had it in constant rotation this year.

Well, you, I think you know what I mean
That I'm not gonna stand around and play make believe

"Stuck In My Id" - Reptar (from the album "Oblangle Fizz Y'all)

This album was sent to me and has been on my playlist for awhile now, definitely some catchy songs.

yeah, i been missing hanging with you
there's nothing keeping me alone

"I Found You" - Alabama Shakes (from the self-titled EP)

Only started listening to these guys recently but what a find they've been. Some great music here, the Shakes only have an EP out right now but all four songs are fantastic, I'm in love with this one in particular. Can't wait for their full length album in 2012, for now this will have to hold us over......

I remember them days I waited so patiently
for god to bring someone who's gonna be good to me
and then he blessed my soul

That wraps up Part I, Part II to follow later this week....

SOTD: "Never Be Your Lover/Jam" - Typhoon

2011-12-16T10:38:00.004-05:00

Here's a great video of a new tune from Typhoon live at the Mississippi Studios.....

Typhoon - Never Be Your Lover / Jam (live) from Matthew Ross on Vimeo.

SOTD: "Hold On" - Alabama Shakes

2011-12-13T00:01:00.003-05:00

I've been listening to these guys quite a bit over the last couple of weeks. You can pickup their only release on Bandcamp HERE but they recently got picked up by ATO Records so hopefully we can get a full length album in April. Great sound...

The Head & The Heart: Spring 2012 Tour

2011-12-12T22:09:00.004-05:00

The Head & The Heart has announced some upcoming dates for a Spring 2012 tour. Presale will be on Wednesday 12/14 with a regular on-sale to follow on Friday the 16th. Dates, cities and venues listed below....

The Head and The Heart - Spring 2012 Tour

Sun, Mar 04
Lawrence, KS
The Granada

Mon, Mar 05
Urbana, IL
Canopy Club

Tue, Mar 06
Louisville, KY
Headliners

Thu, Mar 08
Chicago, IL
Vic Theatre

Fri, Mar 09
Indianapolis, IN
The Vogue

Sat, Mar 10
Columbus, OH
Newport Music Hall

Sun, Mar 11
Pontiac, MI
The Crofoot Ballroom

Tue, Mar 13
Toronto, ON
The Opera House

Wed, Mar 14
Montreal, QC
La Tulipe

Thu, Mar 15
South Burlington, VT
Higher Ground Ballroom

Fri, Mar 16
Portland, ME
State Theatre

Sat, Mar 17
Philadelphia, PA
Union Transfer

Sun, Mar 18
New York, NY
Terminal 5

Tue, Mar 20
Baltimore, MD
Ram's Head Live

Wed, Mar 21
Richmond, VA
The National

Fri, Mar 23
Athens, GA
40 Watt Club

Sat, Mar 24
Nashville, TN
Cannery Ballroom

Sun, Mar 25
St. Louis, MO
The Pageant

Dawes @ Maxwell's 12/7/11

2011-12-08T20:16:00.013-05:00

Last night I ventured over to Hoboken , NJ to meet up with some college buddies for the Dawes show at Maxwell’s. This was only my second time at this venue (last time was almost exactly eleven years ago, 12/9/00, for Evan Dando of the Lemonheads) and I had forgotten just how great this venue is. Maxwell’s is a bar/restaurant with a tiny performance space in the back, the type of room that actually feels like you’re hanging out with a bunch of friends in your parent’s basement. The room was packed but if I had to guess, it only holds about 200 to maybe 250 and we were jammed in there.

Dawes came on around 10pm and played a great mix of songs from both their albums, their debut “North Hills” and their latest release, “Nothing is Wrong”. Highlights for me were “Peace In the Valley” (which has quickly become my favorite live song to hear from these guys), “That Western Skyline”, “My Girl To Me” and the encore “Fire Away”. Kind of an interesting set in that “When My Time Comes” was actually played about halfway through with the crowd taking over the last verse. Pretty cool setting to have a couple hundred people singing together while the band played along.

Instead of leaving for the encore, the guys stayed on stage with lead singer Taylor Goldsmith saying something like, "this is where we usually leave for a few minutes, and then you all cheer and we all come back up...... but we're just going to stay right here." He then went right into "Fire Away" and let all of us take over the vocals at end as he stepped off the stage and made his way through the crowd while the band finished playing, a really cool way to end the show. The only disappointed fan was probably the guy in the back that kept yelling, "Werewolves", obviously referring to Warren Zevon, someone Dawes has been known to cover.

This was my third time seeing the band this year and I seem to become a bigger fan each time. I think there’s a unique quality to their live show in that they seem to really play their tails off every time they hit the stage, probably the biggest reason I’m always recommending people to see them. I’m sure like anybody else they have an occasional off night but I’ve been impressed with their ability to perform at a high level every time I’ve seen them, in a variety of venues (large/small, indoor/outdoor, etc.)

Definitely try to catch these guys if they’re coming your way, you won't be disappointed. Below you'll find a few pictures I took from last night, enjoy!

The Black Keys @ Webster Hall 12/5/11

2011-12-06T00:02:00.009-05:00

Earlier today, I was lucky enough to be one of the four hundred people that got a ticket for the Black Keys record release party tonight at Webster Hall. Southern Comfort (show sponsor) released the location of the tickets, Bowery Ballroom, just before 10am and luckily for me it was right by my job. I flew over there as quickly as possible and there had to already be about 150-200 people in line in about 10 minutes. Still, I felt I was definitely within the 400 (they were only giving out single tickets) and had a good shot at getting one. It was a pretty crazy scene with people running in from all directions on bikes, taxis, skateboards, etc.

It was truly a great feeling as I made it into Bowery as I then knew that I was going to get a ticket. Since the show was filmed tonight, they had us sign a waiver and then gave us a ticket, bracelet and show laminate which was pretty cool. I was completely pumped walking out those doors, really excited to see these guys in such a small venue.

Just got in from the show and it was even better than I expected. I knew The Black Keys would be mostly playing new material but they threw in some great old tunes, including opening up with "Howlin' For You" which got the crowd fired up right off the bat. Other oldies included "Everlasting Light", "Next Girl", and "Ten Cent Pistol". I was really impressed by the new songs, sounded absolutely awesome. Highlights for me were "Lonely Boy" and "Gold on the Ceiling", both songs were awesome in concert. Dan and Patrick came out for a one-song encore which was, "I Got Mine".... absolutely blew the roof off, everyone was dancing and singing along to close out the show.

Just really a special experience, feel very lucky to have been able to attend this event. Here's a few pics (didn't bring my camera so you'll have to settle for my crappy blackberry)....

BLACK KEYS TICKET LINE

DAN & PATRICK ON STAGE

EVENT TSHIRT

SOTD: "Main Street" - Deer Tick

2011-12-06T00:01:00.001-05:00

The latest video from Deer Tick....

The Black Keys: NYC Show & NPR Interview

2011-12-05T00:01:00.005-05:00

The Black Keys will play a new album release show tonight at Webster Hall sponsored by Southern Comfort. They'll be giving away 400 tickets today, announcement on the Southern Comfort Facebook page (HERE) at 9:45AM. Good luck to all of those trying to get tickets.

Also, take a listen to a recent interview with the Black Keys from NPR Music right HERE.

The Black Keys: El Camino Preview

2011-11-30T21:13:00.006-05:00

The Black Keys are featuring a five song preview of their upcoming album, "El Camino". Check out their site HERE, (or below), enter your email address and you'll have access to stream the five songs:

"Lonely Boy"
"Gold on the Ceiling"
"Little Black Submarines"
"Sister"
"Run Right Back"

Lauriana Mae: Love Mae EP & Live Clip

2011-11-30T19:35:00.006-05:00

How good is this? Wow. Lauriana Mae just released her debut EP which you can pick up at her website, HERE.

Unsung Heroes Album Release Party

2011-11-29T22:13:00.005-05:00

If you're in NYC this weekend and a fan of A Capella music, head on over to The Delancey to see Unsung Heroes perform at their album release party on Friday night. For more info on the group, check out their website HERE. Details in the flyer below....

SOTD: "Non Populus" - Matthew Good

2011-11-29T06:27:00.000-05:00

Here's a live version of one of my favorite tracks off Matthew Good's latest album.

SOTD: "Big Ghost" - Chris Bathgate

2011-11-21T00:01:00.001-05:00

We Are Augustines: NPR Interview

2011-11-20T22:10:00.005-05:00

Take a listen to this interesting interview with We Are Augustines' lead singer Billy McCarthy from NPR All Things Considered. Highly recommend picking up their album, "Rise Ye Sunken Ships", one of my favorites of 2011.

We Are Augustines: Old Wounds Inspire Recovery Songs

SOTD: "St. Croix" - Family of the Year

2011-11-16T00:01:00.001-05:00

The Kooks On Tour

2011-11-15T23:22:00.002-05:00

The Kooks kicked off their US tour tonight in Philly. See additional dates below, including two shows in NYC starting tomorrow. You can try to win tickets to an upcoming show HERE.

The Kooks North American Tour Dates:

11/15 Philadelphia PA Trocadero
11/16 New York NY Webster Hall
11/17 New York NY Webster Hall
11/19 Boston MA House Of Blues
11/20 Washington DC 9.30 Club
11/22 Montreal QC Club Soda
11/23 Toronto ON Sound Academy
11/25 Columbus OH Newport Music Hall
11/26 Chicago IL Vic Theatre
11/27 Minneapolis MN First Avenue
11/29 Denver CO Ogden Theatre
11/30 Salt Lake City UT Club Sound
12/02 Seattle WA The Showbox @ The Market
12/04 Vancouver BC Commodore Ballroom
12/05 Porland, OR Doug Fir Lounge
12/07 Los Angeles CA The Music Box
12/08 Los Angeles CA The Music Box
12/09 Chandler, AZ Wild Horse Pass Hotel + Casino
12/13 San Francisco CA The Fillmore

SOTD: "What Makes A Man" - Dallas Green w/ Pink

2011-11-07T06:13:00.000-05:00

Here's an awesome version of City & Colour's (Dallas Green) singing "What Makes A Man" with a guest appearance by Pink from a recent show in LA.

SOTD: "Beach Holiday" - Fort Lean

2011-11-02T06:45:00.000-04:00

SOTD: "Lost In My Mind" - The Head & The Heart (Letterman performance)

2011-10-31T06:32:00.001-04:00

This is easily one of the best TV performances I've ever seen, The Head & The Heart owned this performance on Letterman a few nights ago.

SOTD: "Lonely Boy" - The Black Keys

2011-10-26T06:14:00.000-04:00

Awesome new song and video from the Black Keys....

The Boxer Rebellion - "The Runner" (Live in London)

2011-10-25T06:51:00.000-04:00

The Boxer Rebellion recently posted a video of their performance of "The Runner", Filmed at London's Shepherds Bush Empire On September 29, 2011.

SOTD: "Smoke" - Ben Folds w/the West Australian Symphony Orchestra

2011-10-21T07:58:00.001-04:00

Just an amazing version of this song......

Ben Folds @ Apple Store (Soho, NYC) - Thursday 10/20

2011-10-20T21:53:00.017-04:00

Earlier tonight, I swung by the Soho Apple Store to see Ben Folds perform. Ben is out promoting his latest release, "The Best Imitation of Myself: A Retrospective", which features live clips, b-sides, demos, etc. throughout Ben's career as a solo artist along with his band, Ben Folds Five.

I'd guess there were about 200 people there or so and Ben came out and immediately went right to the piano and played "Best Imitation of Myself", "Still Fighting It" (a favorite of mine) and "One Angry Dwarf and 200 Solemn Faces". I thought he sounded great although it was kind of a strange setting with a lot of background noise as the room was still busy with people shopping throughout the store.

The next part featured Ben and the artist who painted the cover (sorry, I couldn't quite get his name) getting asked a few questions from a moderator. The artist spoke how he actually bought a piano and destroyed it with a sledgehammer to complete his painting (album cover).

He also told a funny story about years ago loving Ben's music and creating a painting for him. He showed up to a concert in Dallas and met Ben's tour manager who brought him backstage after the show to give it to Ben. He said the funniest thing he remembered was that Ben was so excited that he yelled over to his mom (who happened to be on tour at that time) and how the artist was thinking, "wow, this is really backstage at a rock n' roll concert".... that got a bunch of laughs from the crowd.

Ben spoke a bit about putting together the album and how he had salvaged some old tapes from a flood down in Nashville where he had a whole piano damaged in his storage locker along with many tapes (he also mentioned his locker was next to Keith Urban who had a bunch of guitar damage). Ben also spoke about reuniting with his old bandmates Robert and Darren and how all three had written songs for the retrospective. There was a funny moment when one of stereos or sound docks in the store went off as somebody was playing with it, I think Ben made a pretty funny comment like, "that's messed up, we asked for french horns right there." Real funny guy.

After that there was an audience Q&A but I had to take off so I didn't hear that part. Probably the strangest thing that I heard was a woman next to me describing him as "a judge on some music tv show". I guess that's how some people identify him today but it's just weird to me since I've never seen the show and honestly totally forgot he was even on TV. Ben is and has been one of my favorite singer-songwriters since high school in the mid 90s and I've always thought the guy was jus such a unique talent. Going to his shows were almost like going to a Broadway show, something really different and just a very cool experience. This was my first time seeing Ben live in about five years but it was awesome to hear him play again, he's truly a special talent and it was a great opportunity to see him in a small setting.

REM - "Country Feedback" (Later With Jools Holland) 1998

2011-10-20T21:39:00.002-04:00

I just had to post this version because I came across it earlier tonight. "Country Feedback" is one of my all time favorite songs and I had read people talking about this amazing version from Later With Jools Holland in 1998, but I never heard it. Looks like somebody recently uploaded the audio to youtube. Incredible stuff, this is just awesome......

Dave Matthews & Tim Reynolds East Coast Dates

2011-10-18T20:21:00.002-04:00

Dave Matthews & Tim Reynolds have announced a couple east coast tour dates, from the DMB Warehouse site.....

Dave and Tim Announce Two East Coast Acoustic Shows
We are pleased to announce that Dave Matthews and Tim Reynolds will play on Friday, November 18th at the United Palace Theatre in New York City, NY and on Saturday, November 19th at Toyota Presents Oakdale in Wallingford, CT. The New York City performance will be a charity concert. Fans will be given the unique opportunity to help create a better world, by directing the full value of their NYC ticket purchase to the charity of their choice through davematthews.com/charity.

ON SALE INFORMATION:
UNITED PALACE THEATRE - NEW YORK CITY, NY
Warehouse Ticketing Request Period open WED OCT. 19 at 10am ET through TUE OCT. 25 at 10am ET
Public On Sale ticketmaster.com FRI OCT. 28 at 10am ET

TOYOTA PRESENTS OAKDALE – WALLINGFORD, CT
Warehouse Ticketing Request Period open THU OCT. 20 at 10 am ET through THU OCT. 27 at 10am ET
Public On Sale ticketmaster.com SAT 0CT. 29 at 10am ET

SOTD: "Sirens" - The Pack A.D.

2011-10-18T00:02:00.001-04:00

Found out about this group yesterday, pretty cool tune.....

Ben Folds @ Apple Store (Soho, NYC) - Thursday 10/20

2011-10-18T00:01:00.001-04:00

Ben Folds will be appearing at the Soho Apple Store in NYC on Thursday night from 7-8pm, here's more info from their site.....

Join us for this special performance as we welcome Ben Folds to the Apple Store. Ben’s sound and sensibility evoke the essence of classic pop, with an infusion of energy and wit. Hear Ben play, and enjoy cuts from his career-spanning album, The Best Imitation of Myself: A Retrospective. Ben will be joined by Opie Otterstad, renowned artist and designer of Ben’s latest album cover, for a discussion of how the music influenced the cover art. Wristbands required for entry are available at the Apple Store on October 19.

Subway Shuffle: 10/17/11

2011-10-17T21:47:00.010-04:00

My ipod's shuffle feature has been on fire lately, here's a taste of what I've gotten to listen to.

SUBWAY SHUFFLE 10/17/11

Track #1: Alexander featuring RZA - "Truth"
Track #2: Ryan Adams & The Cardinals - "Dear Candy"
Track #3: Pearl Jam - "Let Me Sleep (It's Christmas Time)"
Track #4: Matthew Good Band - "Born To Kill"
Track #5: Delay Trees - "Gold"
Track #6: Kanye West - "So Appalled"
Track #7: We Were Promised Jetpacks - "Conductor"
Track #8: Yuck - "Get Away"
Track #9: Arcade Fire - "City With No Children"
Track #10: Empire of the Sun - "Standing On The Shore"

Caveman - "Great Life"

2011-10-16T09:18:00.001-04:00

Check out this awesome video of Caveman performing "Great Life" with nine additional drummers.....

Caveman "Great Life" is Yourstru.ly from Yours Truly on Vimeo.

SOTD: "Book Of James" - We Are Augustines

2011-10-14T00:01:00.001-04:00

SOTD: "Main Street" - Deer Tick (on Letterman)

2011-10-13T10:47:00.002-04:00

Video of Deer Tick's great performance of "Main Street" from Letterman last night...

Deer Tick on Letterman tonight!

2011-10-12T19:35:00.001-04:00

Deer Tick will be performing on Letterman tonight, playing "Main Street" from their new album, Divine Providence (Partisan), to be released October 24

Chamberlin: Cabin Covers EP

2011-10-04T00:02:00.001-04:00

Chamberlin recently released their "Cabin Covers EP", where they had fans vote on various covers they wanted to hear. The band decided to release the EP with proceeds going to the flood relief efforts in Vermont. Below you'll see a video for one of the tracks, a cover of Passion Pit's "Little Secrets" along with a stream of the EP under that. For more details on the EP and to download your own copy and support this cause, visit the Chamberlin site HERE.

cabincoversep by chamberlinband

TYPHOON: "BFF" Fall Tour & Daytrotter Session

2011-10-04T00:01:00.000-04:00

Typhoon has announced the "BFF" fall tour alongside Wild Ones and Youth. Take a look at the video below featuring music from all three bands (Youth - "Everything"; Wild Ones - "You're a Winner"; Typhoon - "Claws Pt 1") and upcoming tour dates (also listed below).

Typhoon.Wild Ones.Youth - BFF Tour 2011 from Matthew Ross on Vimeo.

Pearl Jam - "Mother" (Pink Floyd)

2011-10-02T10:04:00.004-04:00

On Friday night, Pearl Jam covered Pink Floyd's "Mother" on Late Night with Jimmy Fallon.

Eddie Vedder & Liam Finn - "Habit" & "I See Red"

2011-10-02T09:51:00.004-04:00

Eddie Vedder showed up at the Tractor Tavern in Seattle the other night at Liam Finn's concert to join him on stage for a couple of songs. The first track is "Habit" a great tune off Pearl Jam's album "No Code". The second song is an old tune called "I See Red" by the Split Enz.

Watch this awesome performance below.....

NPR Music: Ryan Adams - "Ashes & Fire"

2011-09-26T00:03:00.002-04:00

Head over to NPR Music to stream Ryan Adams' upcoming album "Ashes & Fire". Take a listen right HERE.

Radiohead Roseland Tickets

2011-09-26T00:02:00.004-04:00

A reminder that tickets for Radiohead's club shows at Roseland in NYC go on sale at 10am this morning. Tickets will be near impossible but I lucked out last time Radiohead played this venue about 10 years ago so you never know. Good luck (and feel free to take me as your +1 if you're one of the lucky ones).

Radiohead Tickets HERE.

SOTD: "Birdbeat" - Hello Echo

2011-09-26T00:01:00.001-04:00

SOTD: "I've Handled Myself Wrong" - Grace Woodroofe

2011-09-14T00:01:00.001-04:00

Here's the first single off Grace Woodroofe's debut record, "Always Want", coming out January 24th. Grace will be on a fall tour with Ben Harper starting September 29th in Philadelphia (additional dates & venues below).

9/29: Philadelphia, PA @ Electric Factory
9/30: Boston, MA @ House of Blues
10/1: New York, NY @ Terminal 5
10/4: Washington, DC @ 9:30 Club
10/5: Washington, DC @ 9:30 Club
10/7: Atlanta, GA @ The Tabernacle

SOTD: "Medicine" - We Were Promised Jetpacks

2011-09-12T18:32:00.004-04:00

Here's a great new song called "Medicine" from We Were Promised Jetpacks. Their first album was excellent and this single is from their upcoming release, "In The Pit Of The Stomach" (due out October 4th). You can also stream the song HERE.

PJ20 Night 1 Videos

2011-09-04T08:23:00.003-04:00

Found some great videos from the show last night, a youtube user named JeffgardenConcerts has posted some awesome stuff. See below for a few great clips.....

"HUNGER STRIKE" (w/Chris Cornell)

"BREATH"

"STATE OF LOVE & TRUST"

SOTD: "Better Off Without You" - Summer Camp

2011-09-01T10:38:00.003-04:00

If you like this song you can also stream another one of Summer Camp's tunes called "I Want You" right HERE.

Blitzen Trapper: "American Goldwing" Album Stream

2011-08-30T13:40:00.003-04:00

Head over to PASTE Magazine to take a listen to the new Blitzen Trapper album "American Goldwing". These guys will be heading out on tour with Dawes starting on October 7th for what should be a great show. All tour dates listed below.....

October 7th Mystic Theatre Petaluma, CA
October 8th SoHo Santa Barbara, CA
October 9th Belly Up Solana Beach, CA
October 10th Crescent Ballroom Phoenix, AZ
October 13th Club Dada Dallas, TX
October 14th Utopia Fest Utopia, TX
October 15th Manship Theatre Baton Rouge, LA
October 18th Variety Playhouse Atlanta, GA
October 19th Mercy Lounge Nashville, TN
October 20th Headliner's Louisville, KY
October 21st Orange Peel Asheville, NC
October 22nd Cat's Cradle Chapel Hill, NC
October 24th The Black Cat Washington, DC
October 26th Webster Hall New York, NY
October 27th The TLA Philadelphia, PA
October 28th Royale Boston, MA
October 30th Opera House Toronto, ON
November 1st Beachland Ballroom Cleveland, OH
November 2nd Calvin College Grand Rapids, MI
November 3rd The Metro Chicago, IL
November 4th First Ave Minneapolis, MN
November 7th Fox Theatre Boulder, CO
November 11th The Neptune Seattle, WA
November 13th McDonald Theatre Eugene, OR
November 15th The Fillmore San Francisco, CA

SOTD: "The Keeper" - Chris Cornell

2011-08-30T09:08:00.002-04:00

Great new tune from Chris Cornell......

SOTD: "Lucky Now" - Ryan Adams

2011-08-25T00:01:00.002-04:00

Here's the great new single from Ryan Adams' upcoming album Ashes & Fire (out 10/11/11).

Pre-order packages for the album can be found HERE.

SOTD: "This Time" - Chris Trapper

2011-08-24T00:01:00.001-04:00

Here's a new video from Chris Trapper (lead singer of the Push Stars). You may recognize the song as it was also performed by Jonathan Rhys Meyers in the film August Rush. Below you'll find some upcoming tour dates to see Chris in concert. More info available at his site HERE.

Thu Aug 25 Toronto, ON HUGH'S ROOM
Fri Aug 26 Montreal, QC PETIT CAMPUS
Sun Aug 28 Brewerton, NY PRIVATE EVENT
Thu Sep 08 Hermosa Bch, CA SAINT ROCKE
Sun Sep 11 Sacramento, CA HARLOW'S
Wed Sep 14 Portland, OR ALBERTA ROSE THEATRE
Thu Sep 15 Seattle, WA TRIPLE DOOR
Fri Sep 16 Seattle, WA TRIPLE DOOR
Sat Sep 17 Walla Walla, WA CROSSROADS LOUNGE
Sun Sep 18 Pullman, WA BELLTOWER
Tue Sep 20 Salt Lake, UT THE STATE ROOM
Wed Sep 21 Carbondale, CO PAC3
Fri Sep 23 Denver, CO NEIL HOUSE CONCERT
Sat Sep 24 Denver, CO L2 ARTS CENTER
Sun Sep 25 Colorado Springs, CO LUSCZEK HOUSE CONCERT
Mon Sep 26 Santa Fe, NM SANTA FE BREWING CO.
Wed Sep 28 Tucson, AZ CLUB CONGRESS
Thu Sep 29 Flagstaff, AZ COCONINO CENTER
Fri Sep 30 Cave Creek, AZ HAROLD'S
Sun Oct 02 Athens, GA THE MELTING POINT
Mon Oct 03 Nashville, TN THE BASEMENT
Tue Oct 04 Atlanta, GA SMITHS OLDE BAR
Wed Oct 26 New York, NY THE LIVING ROOM
Thu Oct 27 Philadelphia, PA THE GRAPE ROOM
Fri Oct 28 Buffalo, NY NINTH WARD
Sun Oct 30 Syracuse, NY JAZZ CENTRAL

Caveman & The War On Drugs @ Cameo Gallery 8/19/11

2011-08-23T00:01:00.018-04:00

Friday night I went to a great show in Brooklyn at Cameo Gallery featuring Caveman & The War On Drugs. This was my first time seeing both acts even though I've been listening to The War On Drugs for a couple of years now. Caveman is a relatively new band out of Brooklyn whose album is due out in a couple of weeks (and you're going to love it, one of my favorites of the year).

Cameo is a small venue, I'd say it held maybe 200 people so we were packed in pretty good but I loved the show. I thought both bands were great and had a blast checking them out in such an intimate venue. If you're not familiar with these bands, I'd suggest checking them out ASAP, especially Caveman..... I think they're in for some big things over the next year.

Below you'll find some pictures and videos I took from Friday night, take a listen and enjoy! (I also recommend checking out Jessica Amaya's GREAT pictures over on BrooklynVegan right HERE.)

CAVEMAN (Pics & Video):

"DECEMBER 28TH"

"MY TIME"

THE WAR ON DRUGS (Pics & Video):

"BABY MISSILES"

"ARMS LIKE BOULDERS"

SOTD: "So It Goes" - The Grownup Noise

2011-08-22T00:01:00.001-04:00

Saw these guys a couple months ago during the same showcase as Chamberlin, they've got some good tunes. Take a listen to their latest below......

SOTD: "Holocene" - Bon Iver

2011-08-19T06:40:00.000-04:00

Great new video for Bon Iver's "Holocene"....

Scattered Trees @ Brooklyn Bowl - 8/17/11

2011-08-18T20:50:00.012-04:00

Last night I made a trip over to Williamsburg, Brooklyn to check out Scattered Trees at Brooklyn Bowl. I've been wanting to get to this venue for awhile now and it did not disappoint. Brooklyn Bowl is a bowling alley/restaurant/bar/concert venue..... sounds like a random combination but trust me, it works. The acoustics were excellent and it's just a great space to see a show.

I got my hands on the Scattered Trees album "Sympathy" early this year and have been listening to it quite a bit since. I've written about them several times over the last eight months or so but this was my first time catching them in concert. The band was the second group on the bill and sounded great the minute they hit the stage. Their set was mostly comprised of songs off their album so I was familiar with the majority of the material and impressed that the songs translated so well in a live setting. The album is pretty mellow but some of the songs really took on a new life in person.

My favorite song off the album is called "A Conversation About Death On New Year's Eve" and Scattered Trees ended up playing it early in the set. Definitely one of the highlights for me along with a song called "Five Minutes". Sympathy is a really solid album, very listenable from start to finish and worth picking up if you don't have it.

I setup on the rail just off to the side of the stage and had a nice unobstructed view all night. I took a video of "A Conversation..." and several pictures which you can find below. I was really impressed with the performance, I think these guys are bound for some big things in the future. I got to speak with a couple of the band members after the show and I can definitely say that they're good people, I'll be rooting for them along the way.

A CONVERSATION ABOUT DEATH ON NEW YEAR'S EVE

SOTD: "Thankful" - Caveman

2011-08-17T00:03:00.007-04:00

Take a listen to the track above (and you can stream/download at Pitchfork HERE). Trust me when I say you're going to want to get your hands on this upcoming Caveman album, "CoCo Beware". It's out November 15th (Available Digitally on September 13th)..... I've gotten to hear a preview and I'm loving it. Definitely keep your eyes peeled for this one and check them out on their upcoming tour if you get a chance. I'll be heading to their Friday night show in Brooklyn, all tour dates below.....

U.S. Tour with The War on Drugs Starts August 18

Upcoming Caveman Dates:
* w/ The War On Drugs

08/18 - Philadelphia, PA @ Johnny Brenda's *
08/19 - Brooklyn, NY @ Cameo *
08/21 - Allston, MA @ Brighton Music Hall *
08/22 – Burlington, VT @ Monkey Bar
08/23 - Montreal, CAN @ Casa del Popolo *
08/24 - Toronto, CAN @ Drake Hotel *
08/25 - Ann Arbor, MI @ Blind Pig *
08/26 - Chicago, IL @ Schubas Tavern *
08/27 - Milwaukee, WI @ Club Garibaldi *
08/28 - Minneapolis, MN @ 7th Street Entry *
08/30 - St. Louis, MO @ The Biliken Club *
08/31 - Lexington-Fayette, KY @ Cosmic Charlie's *
09/01 - Pittsburgh, PA @ Club Cafe *
09/02 - Washington, DC @ The Red Place *
09/15 – New York, NY @ Mercury Lounge (Digital Album Release)

Head & The Heart opening for My Morning Jacket - European Tour

2011-08-17T00:02:00.002-04:00

Exciting news from the Head & The Heart for our friends overseas.... they'll be opening for My Morning Jacket on their European tour in November. Dates and ticket info below.....

11/2 Glasgow, UK – ABC
11/3 Birmingham, UK – Institute
11/5 Leeds, UK – Academy
11/6 Manchester, UK – Academy
11/7 London, UK – Roundhouse
11/8 Bexhill, UK – De La Warr Pavilion
11/10 Antwerp, BE – Trix
11/11 Luxembourg, LU – Den Atelier
11/12 Koln, GE – Luxor
11/14 Amsterdam, NL – Paradiso
11/16 Berlin, GE – Festsaal Kreuzburg
11/17 Lund, SE – Mejeriet
11/18 Oslo, NO – Sentrum Scene
11/19 Stockholm, SE – Munchen Brewery

Check the TOUR section of our website HERE for all of the ticket links.

New Deer Tick Album & Single Download

2011-08-17T00:01:00.002-04:00

Deer Tick will be releasing a new record, Divine Providence on October 25, 2011, The new record features for the first time lead vocal turns on a couple of songs by guitarist Ian O'Neil and drummer Dennis Ryan.

You can download the first song from Divine Providence HERE. The track is called "Miss K."

The tracklisting for Divine Providence is:

The Bump
Funny Word
Let's All Go to the Bar
Clownin' Around
Main Street
Chevy Express
Something to Brag About
Walkin Out the Door
Make Believe
Now It's Your Turn
Electric
Miss K.

SOTD: "Somebody That I Used To Know" - Gotye (featuring Kimbra)

2011-08-16T00:01:00.010-04:00

My friend Ina posted this song on her page the other night and I instantly fell in love with it. Reminds me of Sting singing over Manu Chao music, great song.

SOTD: "The Stable Song" - Gregory Alan Isakov

2011-08-15T00:02:00.003-04:00

This song is actually a couple years old but it's an amazing tune. Beautiful song, enjoy this one.....

NPR Music: The War On Drugs

2011-08-15T00:01:00.008-04:00

NPR Music recently posted a great live session with The War On Drugs. I've been listening to these guys for a couple years now and really dig their stuff, especially "Arms Like Boulders" and "Baby Missiles". The setlist is listed below, full concert can be found HERE. If you're looking to catch the band locally, they'll be playing a great bill with Caveman on Friday night at Cameo Gallery.

SET LIST
Best Night
Baby Missiles
Comin' Through
Arms Like Boulders
Brothers
Your Love Is Calling My Name
Buenos Aires Beach
I Was There

New NFL Commercial w/ Josh Ritter "Change of Time"

2011-08-14T11:44:00.003-04:00

I was just watching TV when I was pretty stunned to see a new NFL commercial with Josh Ritter's "Change of Time" as the background music. I can't find the commercial online yet but you can hear the song below. Great tune, I picked it as one of my Top 50 of 2010.

"I had a dream last night........"

SOTD: "Junk of the Heart" - The Kooks

2011-08-10T00:02:00.001-04:00

The Kooks: North American Tour

2011-08-10T00:01:00.001-04:00

The Kooks have announced their return to the U.S. for an extensive U.S. tour kicking off November 15th in Philadelphia.

Pre-sale tickets go on sale Wednesday August 10th (password: JUNK). Regular on sale for the tour begins Friday August 12th. Tour details can be found HERE.

The Kooks 3rd album "Junk of the Heart" is coming September 13th and is now available to pre-order on Amazon.com.

The Kooks North American Tour Dates:

11/15 Philadelphia PA Trocadero
11/16 New York NY Webster Hall
11/17 New York NY Webster Hall
11/19 Boston MA House Of Blues
11/20 Washington DC 9.30 Club
11/22 Montreal QC Club Soda
11/23 Toronto ON Sound Academy
11/25 Columbus OH Newport Music Hall
11/26 Chicago IL Vic Theatre
11/27 Minneapolis MN First Avenue
11/29 Denver CO Ogden Theatre
11/30 Salt Lake City UT Club Sound
12/02 Seattle WA The Showbox @ The Market
12/04 Vancouver BC Commodore Ballroom
12/07 Los Angeles CA The Music Box
12/08 Los Angeles CA The Music Box
12/13 San Francisco CA The Fillmore

RATM: First Public Performance - 10/23/91

2011-08-08T00:02:00.002-04:00

This is pretty insane, somebody recently posted full concert footage of Rage Against The Machine's first ever public performance at The Quad, Cal State Northridge, Northridge, CA on Oct. 23, 1991. I had never seen this before but it looks like RATM had their trademark intensity from the start. I've seen these guys about five or six times and they always bring an amazing show. Enjoy this....

Setlist:
1: Killing In The Name (Instrumental)
2: Take The Power Back
3: Autologic
4: Bullet In The Head
5: Hit The Deck
6: Township Rebellion
7: Darkness Of Greed
8: Clear The Lane
9: Clampdown
10: Know Your Enemy (alternate version)
11: Freedom

SOTD: "I Don't Wanna Go Home" - Kingsley Flood

2011-08-08T00:01:00.001-04:00

The Friday night before the Newport Folk Festival, my friends and I went out in Providence. We ended up seeing this band and I thought they were really good. Check out their song "I Don't Wanna Go Home"...

Typhoon @ Mercury Lounge 8/2/11

2011-08-03T00:01:00.003-04:00

Last night my buddy JayT and I took another trip to the Mercury Lounge to see Typhoon, a band from Portland, Oregon. Like I’ve said in previous entries, I’ve been trying to see these guys (& gals) for about seven months now. They just haven’t played a lot of local dates so I haven’t been able to catch them until last night. I thought I’d finally get my chance this past weekend in Newport but unfortunately it took us over two hours to get into the festival on Saturday and I just missed their set (they were one of the early acts going on Saturday). Fortunately I had this show in my back pocket so I was pretty pumped to finally see them last night.

Typhoon is a pretty unique band, if my math is decent I counted THIRTEEN people playing on stage. If you’re familiar with Mercury Lounge, this was an interesting dynamic seeing as it’s a pretty small stage. The group was pretty much broken up into groups of three: lead singer w/guitar, lead guitarist and bass guitarist; three piece horn section; three piece string section; two drummers and one guy playing percussion. Pretty sure there was also a girl playing keyboard in the back but it was difficult for me to see from my spot on the floor. For such a big band they’re extremely tight, you can tell they’ve played and rehearsed quite a bit together. Typhoon’s music has a lot of tempo and volume changes so this is an impressive quality for such a large band.

The band played about a 45 minute set consisting mostly of material off their albums but they also played a brand new song that I thought was excellent. Really entertaining set, it was almost overwhelming how much was going on and what you wanted to fix your eyes to. Highlights for me were “The Honest Truth” (my favorite song by Typhoon), “Kitchen Tile” and “CPR/Claws Pt 2” which I filmed and you can watch below.

About half way through the show, lead singer Kyle Morton remarked that this was their first show in NYC but I was really impressed and would expect that their next trip they’ll be playing a larger venue like Bowery Ballroom or Music Hall of Williamsburg. Typhoon has some more dates lined up listed below including another NYC show tonight in Brooklyn at Littlefield. Also, they'll be the muscial guest on Letterman Thursday night. I definitely recommend checking them out if you get the opportunity.

One other random note, I recognized the lead singer of Freelance Whales (Judah Dadone) in the crowd between sets and spoke with him for a bit. They’re back in town working on a second album after touring relentlessly over the last couple years off of their album “Weathervanes”. Really nice guy, enjoyed speaking with him after seeing them perform a couple times this year. Another very good band you should check out if you’re not familiar with their stuff.

TYPHOON TOUR DATES:

August 3rd Littlefield Brooklyn, NY
August 4th Sixth & Synagogue Washington, DC
August 6th Lollapalooza Chicago, IL
August 8th The Old Rock House St. Louis, MO
August 9th The Riot Room Kansas City, MO
August 10th Hi-Dive Denver, CO
August 12th Visual Arts Collective Garden City, OH
September 10th Musicfest NW @ Pioneer Courthouse Square Portland, OR

"CPR/CLAWS PT 2"

Newport Folk Fest

2011-08-01T03:16:00.005-04:00

Arrived back in NYC, totally spent from the weekend but a tremendous time at the Newport Folk Festival. I'll get much more up in the next few days, here's a quick shot from M Ward & Dawes to hold you over....

Newport Folk Festival 2011 Preview

2011-07-27T00:01:00.034-04:00

This weekend I'll be heading up to Newport, RI for their annual Folk Festival. If you're unfamiliar with the Festival, you can read about it's extensive history starting all the way back in in 1959 right HERE.

I've been invited by my friend Todd a couple times as he's been a regular attendee but I just haven't been able to pull it off until this year. Some of my friends were able to join him last year and they came back raving about the weekend, I knew I had to make it happen this year.

I'll be heading up with a big crew to take in the weekend at Fort Adams State Park and I couldn't be more excited about the opportunity to cover the festival. When I first saw the lineup a few months ago I knew I had to make it up there as it was a great mix of bands I had seen, bands I dug but hadn't yet seen, and some bands I had just read/heard about recently. Add in a great venue on the water and it seems like a perfect weekend to take in some great music.

I figured I'd give some recommendations of bands that I've seen or plan on seeing over the weekend. With so many great options, it's impossible to hit everything but Newport Folk Festival has assembled a tremendous lineup and it's pretty difficult to go wrong at any point this weekend. One word of advice, I'd wear some comfortable shoes because you're going to want to move around quite a bit to see some great acts. Okay, here we go......

SATURDAY

12:35 - TYPHOON (Harbor Stage): Tough call here with Typhoon playing basically the same time slot as The Felice Brothers but I'll be staked out at the Harbor Stage. I first found out about Typhoon early in 2011 when I was sent their EP "A New Kind of House". From the first listen, I thought it was as good as anything I had heard in a long time. I tried researching the band a bit but they weren't on tour and things were pretty quiet at the time. They ended up getting invited to SXSW and the reviews I read said they were fantastic. I've literally been trying to see this 11-piece band for about six months so I'm thrilled to catch them in Newport (and again in NYC next week). Check out "The Honest Truth" below.

1:40 - FREELANCE WHALES (Quad Stage): I've been following these guys for a couple years now and definitely plan on catching their set. Even if you don't think you know them, chances are you've heard the Freelance Whales' song "Generator^First Floor" in a recent Starbucks Ad. Their album "Weathervanes" came out a bit ago and is definitely worth getting, some great songs on there. I finally got to see them at Coachella earlier this year and they were excellent. Here's a video of their song "Hannah" that I recorded at the show.

2:00 - GOGOL BORDELLO (Fort Stage): If you haven't seen these guys (or even if you have), they are a MUST SEE. One of the best live bands I've ever seen. Few bands match the energy of Gogol Bordello in concert, just a really unique experience. I've written a lot about them over the last couple of years, and even met lead singer Eugene Hutz one night in NYC a couple years ago. I'm just a big fan and think that anyone making the trip this weekend should make sure they catch at least part of this set. Here's a clip of "Wonderlust King" I took at Coachella earlier this year.

2:55 - DELTA SPIRIT (Quad Stage): Lead singer Matt Vazquez will be pulling double-duty performing with Delta Spirit along with his other project, Middle Brother. I had heard a bunch of their material and finally got to see them at Coachella this year. Here's a clip of "St Francis" that my buddy Chris took at the festival.

4:15 - TEGAN & SARA (Quad Stage): I'm a fan of these sisters from up north. I first saw them in 2007 out at Neil Young's Bridge School Festival in California. I had friend playing the weekend so I was lucky enough to tag along and meet these ladies and a bunch of other bands. They're extremely talented and I also thought they were just damn nice people, really enjoyed speaking with them and have followed their career since that time. I think they have some great songs, and particularly love their album "The Con". Here's a clip of my favorite song by them, "Dark Comes Soon".... I'd imagine their set will be something like this.

6:05 - THE DECEMBERISTS (Fort Stage): Here's a pretty big band that I have not seen in concert before. I know some of their stuff but honestly haven't listened to them a ton. I know a lot of people that really like them, they seem to have a big following an will be playing one of the headlining slots on Saturday night. Here's one of their songs that I really dig, "Down By The Water" (and I wouldn't be surprised to see Gillian Welch hang around after her set to join these guys).

SUNDAY

11:30 - BROWN BIRD (Harbor Stage): Here's a band I've only recently heard about but I definitely like what I've listened to. They've got one of the first slots on Sunday so it's a great opportunity to get out there and check out some early sets. Take a listen to this track, "Ragged Old Town"

1:40 - TRAMPLED BY TURTLES (Quad Stage): I just started listening to these guys at the end of 2010 so I haven't had a chance to see them yet. Definitely looking forward to seeing them as I really like the songs I've heard. Check out the track, "Wait So Long"

3:00 - JUSTIN TOWNES EARLE (Quad Stage): This is definitely one of the sets I'm most looking forward to over the weekend. I've really gotten into Justin's stuff over the last year and am looking forward to finally catching one of his live sets. My favorite song is probably a tune called, "Midnight at the Movies" but I'm also hoping for some more up-tempo songs, something like "Harlem River Blues".

4:20 - MIDDLE BROTHER (Quad Stage) vs THE HEAD & THE HEART (Harbor Stage): This would be my "steel cage match" of the weekend, two acts I'd really like to see playing at the same exact time. Middle Brother is made up of three lead singers of other bands; John McCauley (Deer Tick), Taylor Goldsmith (Dawes) & Matt Vazquez (Delta Spirit). I've seen Deer Tick & Dawes numerous times, love both bands and saw Middle Brother perform in Brooklyn earlier this year. Here's a video I took of their song "Blue Eyes".

The Head and The Heart are getting some major buzz. They recently played the Mercury Lounge in NYC and the tickets sold out in the blink of an eye. I think they'll have a big crowd for their set and I'm going to try to swing between the two and hopefully catch a bit of both. These guys have some great songs, one of my favorites is "Down In The Valley".

4:45 - ELVIS COSTELLO (Fort Stage): As if Middle Brother and The Head & The Heart wasn't enough of a tough decision, Elvis Costello takes the stage about half way through their sets. I'm going to do my best to run over and catch the tail end of his set. Regardless, if you like music, you've got some amazing options between 4pm and 6pm, great acts all over the venue. Here's one of my favorite Elvis tunes, "Pump It Up" (still sounds great!)

5:40 - M WARD w/ DAWES (Quad Stage): This should be another great set, M Ward with Dawes as his backing band. I like M Ward's stuff but he's another act that I haven't seen in person yet. I'm also hoping that they find a way to mix in some Dawes tunes, easily one of my favorite new bands from the last couple of years. If you don't have their two albums, go buy them immediately, fantastic albums. Here's a recent clip of "Big Bird" with Dawes backing M Ward.

Well, think that about wraps it up. As you can see, there's a ton of great options that should keep any music lover busy throughout the weekend. There's a bunch of good bands I didn't even get to mention but I have to give a ton of credit to the Festival organizers for putting together such a strong lineup. I'll have some pictures, videos, and hopefully a slew of stories upon my return next week. As always, thanks for reading!

Pearl Jam 20th Anniversary Trailer

2011-07-26T11:20:00.000-04:00

CAN'T WAIT.

Pearl Jam Twenty from Pearl Jam on Vimeo.

SOTD: "Soon My Work Will Be Over" - Blind Willies

2011-07-26T00:01:00.002-04:00

If you like this track, you can download it HERE. Also below you'll find some upcoming tour dates for Blind Willies.

7.30 Davis, CA @ Sophia's Thai Bar & Kitchen
8.04 Cottage Grove, OR @ Axe and Fiddle
8.05 Corvallis, OR @ Bombs Away Cafe
8.07 Seattle, WA @ Piecora's Back Room
8.11 Tacoma, WA @ The New Frontier Lounge
8.13 Redding, CA @ Maxwell's Downtown Eatery
9.10 Benicia, CA @ Rellik Tavern

SOTD: "Stuck In My ID" - Reptar

2011-07-22T00:02:00.001-04:00

Christopher Paul Stelling & William Elliott Whitmore @ Mercury Lounge 7/19/11

2011-07-22T00:01:00.018-04:00

On Tuesday night, my buddy John and I went down to check out Christopher Paul Stelling & William Elliott Whitmore at the Mercury Lounge. For those that haven't been there, Mercury is a great little venue, probably holds a couple hundred people (packed in tight) in an intimate general admission setting.

As I had written about earlier in the week, I knew William's music well as I've followed him for a couple years now but I've only heard Christopher in the last year and this was my first time seeing him perform (and only my second seeing William). We got there just a few minutes before Christopher came on and the room already had a big crowd which I thought was pretty impressive.

He came out solo and kicked right into his set and I'll tell you that the guy immediately had the room captivated. It was evident that Christopher is a talented musician along with having a powerful voice. After the first song, he remarked, "Well, I've already deviated from the setlist" which had the crowd cracking up. Speaking of the crowd, thought it was great and really respectful. I don't think anyone was talking during the songs and this allowed Christopher to even step away from the mic at points of the show and just sing to the crowd like we were hanging out in a friend's basement.

Chris spoke how he's heading to Kentucky soon to record his album and that he doesn't have much to sell at this point but did point for people to check out his Daytrotter session. He also stated that he's going to be performing on the Daytrotter Barnstormer tour with White Rabbits & Deer Tick (more info on that HERE.) That will be a great tour and I'd highly recommend making one of those shows if you can pull it off.

All in all, I was really impressed in Christopher's performance and would definitely check him out again. I'm sure he'll have some dates once he releases his album and I look forward to hearing it. If you're in the NYC area, he'll be playing tonight at Rockwood Music Hall Stage Two (9pm). In the meantime, take a listen to this video clip of "Flawless Executioner" I recorded below.

"FLAWLESS EXECUTIONER"

William Elliott Whitmore took the stage to a packed room shortly after Christopher finished. It was extremely tight and led William to do something I have never seen an artist pull off at the Mercury Lounge, he invited some of the crowd to sit on stage. I'd say about thirty people went up and sat around William on stage, kind of reminded me of an MTV:Unplugged setting but it definitely helped clear up the floor a bit.

Since the first time I saw William in person back in 2009, I loved his sound. A little banjo, some guitar and a raspy voice that just commands a crowd. He was the opener when I saw him last and without question won over the crowd, but this was different vibe with everyone showing up to see his set. The crowd was enthusiastic and requesting songs (one girl even requested a song right after he played it but William laughed it off and said something like, "cheers, have another drink"). William seemed in a great mood and interacted with the crowd all night between songs.

William mixed a great set of old songs and new ones off of his latest album "Field Songs". Highlights for me included "Dry", "Hell or High Water" and "Johnny Law". It was a great environment seeing him in such a small venue with the crowd really into the show, definitely a unique experience but another great night out in the city. He'll be in Philly tonight and playing across the country through September, definitely check out the show if you get a chance (tour dates HERE).

Enjoy a couple videos I took below.....

"DRY"

"HELL OR HIGH WATER"

SOTD: "Truth" - Alexander

2011-07-19T00:01:00.005-04:00

If you're a fan of Breaking Bad, you may recognize this song from the episode the other night. If you like this tune, you can download a remix featuring Rza (Wu-Tang Clan) right HERE.

Alexander - Truth from Alexander on Vimeo.

La Blogotheque: Typhoon

2011-07-18T20:31:00.001-04:00

Check out this great video of Typhoon performing on La Blogotheque:

Typhoon | A Take Away Show from La Blogotheque on Vimeo.

SOTD: "Taken For A Fool" - The Strokes

2011-07-18T00:02:00.001-04:00

William Elliott Whitmore/Christopher Paul Stelling Preview

2011-07-18T00:01:00.002-04:00

Tomorrow night, I'll be heading down to the Mercury Lounge to check out two great singer-songwriters, William Elliott Whitmore & Christopher Paul Stelling.

I first came across William Elliott Whitmore a couple years ago when he opened for City & Colour at the Bowery Ballroom. William has a great, unique sound and was able to captivate the audience from the first notes. He kind of reminded me of a young Tom Waits and I was really impressed by his live show, very talented guy and to be honest a breath of fresh air hearing a style you don't get every night. I've since picked up a couple of his albums and they're definitely solid although I think he's really a guy you should check out live if you get a chance. Here's a live cut of one of my favorite songs, "Hell or High Water"

I'm relatively new to Christopher Paul Stelling, first heard his music late in 2010 when he appeared on the Daytrotter site. Hopefully you've visited that website previously but if not, it's a MUST HIT..... one of the best sites on the net. You can check that session out HERE. This will be my first time catching Christopher in person so I'm excited about that. Here's a track called "Flawless Executioner" that I really dig.

I'll have a show recap later in the week!

Typhoon: Tour Video & Dates, Letterman & Download

2011-07-13T21:26:00.006-04:00

Lots of news coming out of the Typhoon camp lately.

I can't say enough how excited I am to catch this group over the next month, hoping to see them a couple times on the tour. I've been writing about them for months now but if you're new to the blog or just haven't given them a listen, download this song, "The Honest Truth" right HERE. They'll also be playing it when they make their tv debut on Letterman on August 4th.

Check out this video they just released previewing their "Coast To Coast" tour, dates listed below.

Typhoon - Coast to Coast Tour 2011 from Matthew Ross on Vimeo.

TOUR DATES (more to be announced):

* Indicates shows with The Decemberists

July 19th Britt Pavilion Jacksonville, OR *
July 20th Idaho Botanical Gardens, Boise, ID *
July 21st Twilight Concert Series Salt Lake City, UT *
July 22nd Big Sky Brewery Missoula, MT *
July 23rd The Filling Station VFW Bozeman, MT
July 25th Cedar Cultural Center Minneapolis, MN
July 28th The Iron Horse Music Hall Northampton, MA
July 29th The North Star Bar Philadelphia, PA
July 30th Newport Folk Festival Newport, RI
July 31st Osheaga Festival Montreal, QB
August 2nd The Mercury Lounge New York, NY
August 3rd Littlefield Brooklyn, NY
August 4th Sixth & Synagogue Washington, DC
August 6th Lollapalooza Chicago, IL
August 8th The Old Rock House St. Louis, MO
August 9th The Riot Room Kansas City, MO
August 10th Hi-Dive Denver, CO
August 12th Visual Arts Collective Garden City, OH
September 10th Musicfest NW @ Pioneer Courthouse Square Portland, OR

SOTD: "Window to the Soul" - The Kooks

2011-07-13T21:25:00.000-04:00

The Head & The Heart Upcoming Tour

2011-07-13T21:19:00.002-04:00

The Head & The Heart have announced an upcoming tour in the Fall. I'm looking forward to finally checking these guys out at the Newport Folk Festival in a couple of weeks. All dates listed below.....

Tue 09/20/11 NEW ORLEANS, LA One Eyed Jacks
Wed 09/21/11 ATLANTA, GA The Variety Playhouse
Thu 09/22/11 CHAPEL HILL, NC Lincoln Theatre
Fri 09/23/11 WASHINGTON, DC 9:30 Club
Mon 09/26/11 BROOKLYN, NY Hall of Williamsburg
Tue 09/27/11 NEW YORK, NY Bowery Ballroom
Mon 10/03/11 GRAND RAPIDS, MI Calvin College
Thu 10/06/11 MILWAUKEE, WI Turner Hall
Fri 10/07/11 MADISON, WI The Majestic
Sun 10/09/11 OMAHA, NE The Waiting Room
Mon 10/10/11 DENVER, CO The Gothic
Tue 10/18/11 EUGENE, OR WOW Hall
Wed 10/19/11 PORTLAND, OR Crystal Ballroom
Thu 10/20/11 VANCOUVER BC The Commodore Ballroom

My Morning Jacket on World Cafe

2011-07-11T18:36:00.003-04:00

NPR Music's World Cafe has posted an interview with Jim James from My Morning Jacket along with some live cuts from the band's webcast performance the day their latest album "Circuital" was released. The setlist consists of "Circuital", "Victory Dance", "The Day Is Coming", "Slow Slow Tune". Check it out HERE.

We Were Promised Jetpacks: New Album, Single, Tour Dates

2011-07-11T18:18:00.004-04:00

We Were Promised Jetpacks announced a slew of exciting info earlier today on their website. Coming later in 2011 are UK/European & US tour dates (see below), a new album titled "In The Pit of the Stomach" (early October) and you can currently stream/download the first single, "Act On Impulse" right HERE.

UK/Europe Tour
9 Sept Dundee Doghouse
16 Sept Paris Fleche d'Or
17 Sept Amsterdam Paradiso
18 Sept Hamburg Molotow
19 Sept Berlin Lido
20 Sept Cologne Gebaude 9
21 Sept Brussels Botanique Rotonde
1 Oct Stirling Reload Festival @ Tollbooth
6 Oct Edinburgh Liquid Rooms
11 Oct Leeds Brudenell Social Club
12 Oct London XOYO
13 Oct Brighton Jam
14 Oct Manchester Deaf Institute

US Tour
26 Oct Harrisburg PA The Abbey Bar
27 Oct Washington DC Black Cat
28 Oct Boston MA Paradise
29 Oct Philadelphia PA Union Transfer
30 Oct New York City Webster Hall
1 Nov Cleveland OH Grog Shop
2 Nov Chicago IL Metro
3 Nov St. Louis MO The Old Rock House
4 Nov Norman OK Oklahoma Memorial Union
5 Nov Dallas TX Trees
8 Nov Phoenix AZ Crescent Ballroom
9 Nov San Diego CA Casbah
10 Nov Los Angeles CA The Music Box
11 Nov San Francisco CA Bimbo's
12 Nov Eugene OR WOW Hall
13 Nov Portland OR Wonder Ballroom
15 Nov Seattle WA Neumos

SOTD: "Apartment" - Young The Giant

2011-07-11T00:01:00.000-04:00

Saturday Smorgasbord

2011-07-09T08:58:00.008-04:00

Here's a bunch of links I didn't get a chance to get up this week, enjoy the weekend!

- William Elliott Whitmore - "Field Songs" Album Stream: Listen HERE to preview William's new album streaming over on Paste Magazine.

- Adele - "I Can't Make You Love Me" : Another great cover of the Bonnie Raitt tune, this one is from the Itunes Festival July 7, 2011 (thanks to @lindsaymusic) for the link.

- Freelance Whales: Honey I'm Home Sessions: Take a listen HERE to a new session from the Freelance Whales over on The Wild Honey Pie. You'll hear "Ghosting", "Generator ^ 2nd Floor" and "Hannah", great stuff here!

FREELANCE WHALES HONEY I’M HOME SESSIONS