In our inaugural episode of SoundOff, Michael, Sarah, and Kirsten talk about Isaac Brock writing new material for a Cartoon Network show. They discussed The Libertines reunion and the impact of Pete Doherty’s criminal record. The three discussed what The White Stripes would have been without Seven Nation Army as their lead single. This week they reviewed the latest release by Matt Pond PA, titled The Dark Leaves.
Category: Blog
Last night on “Saturday Night Soul and R&B”, I had the pleasure of speaking with Chilli of the Grammy award winning, legendary and iconic R&B trio, TLC.
In the revealing interview, we discussed her new reality show, “What Chilli Wants,” her relationship with ex-flame R&B singer Usher, her love for Michael Jackson and so much more.
Part I: Chilli discusses her wants and needs in a relationship.Chilli Interview
“What Chilli Wants” premieres tonight on VH1 AT 10:30 p.m.
Follow Chilli, host at Mir.I.am and special guest co-host Allisha and Blair on Twitter.
Special thanks to Christal of Enchanted PR.
“Saturday Night Soul and R&B” with Mir.I.am airs weekly from 9 to 11 p.m.
This past Thursday, Cat’s Cradle was hosted two international bands, bringing in a large crowd.
The Kissaway Trail, a five-piece band from Denmark, started off the night. They made an effort to involve the crowd, especially in songs such as “SDP,” which is available for free download on Facebook. The band is set to release its album, “Sleep Mountain,” on April 20.
- Photos Copyright Graham Bruns 2010
Austrailian band The Temper Trap- followed their set with a musical-like performance. Each song flowed right into the next, including favorites like “Fools,” “Down River,” and of course, “Sweet Disposition.”
The highlight of the performance was “Drum Song.” The band jammed out and danced around, as did the crowd. Dougie, the vocalist, poured water on a floor tom and whailed out on it. With the changing lights behind him, it created an awesome visual to finish off the song.
The band finished off the night with an encore performance of “Science of Fear,” featured on the (500) Days of Summer soundtrack.
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The Revival returns to Raleigh
This past Thursday, two amazing bands teamed up for a night of sheer entertainment in downtown Raleigh.
Sol Driven Train, a band from South Carolina opened up the evening on a rather unexpected tone – it appeared to be ska. Yes, there was a trombone and a baritone sax, and both had very talented musicians attached to them! I had wondered where ska had disappeared to in the past decade or so and was pleased to hear something familiar, but then the next song came and then the next… It was ska, then blues, then Johny Carter-esque country, then something with a Latin feel, and the set finished with a near-ten-minute percussion finale in which every member of the band took to a drum for an all out battle of the beats. I was utterly blown away. How could the night have possibly gotten any better?
I have four words for you – Holy Ghost Tent Revival. Imagine if you can for a moment ragtime, bluegrass, and indie rock having a private party in a French Quarter hotel while your grandma’s gospel choir watched in horror through the keyhole. The music makes you want to dance and sing, hands over your head, heels kicked up, shoes off without caring who sees. Actually, if you were there, you might’ve seen me, but that’s beside the point – It seemed as if the walls actually pulsed with the banging rhythms of the banjo and the wailing combination of the horns and the harmonized vocals made the glass in the windows tremble. New songs were on hand, and it’s clear that not only is the Greensboro-based group gaining melodic momentum, their writing is more interesting and creative than ever.
I was already a fan of Holy Ghost Tent Revival, and I think I become an even bigger fan each time I see them. They’re certainly an act not to be missed, and I was fortunate enough this time to catch them with an opening act who certainly held their own.
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Now Playing: 4/9/10
The Apples in Stereo- Travellers in Space and Time
Travellers in Space and Time
Playing off of space motifs and sounds that would easily fit inside a 70s shows about the Universe, these guys create another amazing album that’s easy to dance to and lighthearted.
[youtube width=“425” height=“25”]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=idanvjAkJAg
Matt Pond PA- The Dark Leaves
Beautiful, enchanting, romantic. These are the types of songs that guys in high school play to their girlfriends on prom night. Imagine a fast paced Bon Iver.
[youtube width=“425” height=“25”]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hbqijor8VLY
Black Francis- Nonstoperotik
Like The Pixies? This is a solid effort by front man Black Francis who abandons more psychodelic elements and leans more toward traditional rock and roll.
[youtube width=“425” height=“25”]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4qV7cU9bbu4&feature=related
Codeine Velvet Club- Codeine Velvet Club
This vexingly vintage album from Lou Hickney and Jon Lawler (Fratellis) sounds as sultry and fun as the cover looks. You get that late 50s/early 60s Big Band sound with amazing boy/girl duets.
[youtube width=“425” height=“25”]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fnSILYfzl54
Roky Erickson & Okkervil River- True Love Cast Out All Evil
True Love Cast Out All Evil
This album is amazing. This Texan legend dabbles in all kinds of musical genres on this recorded including country, blues, garage rock, and lo-fi psychedelic folk. His lyrics are of a man who has been through a lot and trust me, they will tear at your heart and soul.
[youtube width=“425” height=“25”]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zIT6c9-1rWE
Rotary Downs – Cracked Maps & Blue Reports
This is like psychedelic art pop. Sometimes feels a little to much like a jam session but the layered male/female juxtaposes between the innovative instrumentation. Sounds like a mixture of Pavement, Sonic Youth, and Wolf Parade!
Bonnie ‘Prince’ Billy & The Cario Gang- The Wonder Show of the World
The Wonder Show of the World
Beautiful folk songs that are equally heartbreaking and uplifting sometimes. This album general has minimal instrumentation which gives it that haunting feel yet it still delivers with a powerful punch. A perfect addition for any fans of Iron and Wine.
[youtube width=“425” height=“25”]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QooQIrSnyoo
Future Islands- In Evening Air
In Evening Air
WOW, they really out did themselves with this one. Post-new wave synth rockers with a lead singer that will melt your face off with his crooning. A+ gentlemen, A+.
[youtube width=“425” height=“25”]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b8H6bOqKkF8
Benyaro- Good Day Better
An acoustic trio from Brooklyn that sings folky country music that resembles the Avett Brothers. Pretty decent, but at times I got annoyed with how happy they are.
Tarlton- Evergreens
Evergreens
Imagine if the band Grandaddy and Iron and Wine decided to create a dark, almost distorted rock music together. Not bad, but at times this can get a little heavy and overloaded.
Trans Am- Thing
Thing
Post electronic instrumental rock music. I mean do what you want with that.
Turin Brakes- Outbursts
The fifth album in nine years from this London modern folk duo, this CD is a perfect transition from winter into spring. Melodic strumming, finger picking, and interesting lyrics combine to create an uplifting feel; however at times I feel the vocals are straining and the album loses energy as it progresses.
[youtube width=“425” height=“25”]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fawhVcprjDA
Nathaniel Rateliff- In Memory Of Loss
In Memory of Loss
Minimalistic neo-folk; imagine the power and affecting emotion of Mumford & Sons slowed down to the pace of Bon Iver. He can be quiet, or bellowing, but his voice always moves you. All he needs for instrumentation is tip-toeing pianos and guitars around the edge of his booming voice.
Mimicking Birds – Mimicking Birds
Drawing heavy influences from Modest Mouse [maybe because the whole album was recorded in Isaac Brock’s home studio] this CD creates an ethereal ambiance. Intricate lyrics paired with soothing guitar melodies, soft pianos, light horns and the added whispering and raspy vocals give way to a delicate album filled with layers. Play if you are in a slow and soft mood.
[youtube width=“425” height=“25”]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kTo5pBEg7ts
Hurricane Bells – Tonight is the Ghost
Secret solo project of Steve Schiltz from Longwave, Hurricane Bells was popularized by the featured track on the New Moon soundtrack. While more subdued and mellow than “Monsters” it has a Shout Out Louds kinda feel. Even the more upbeat tracks have a quiet and gentle feel. At times he opts for natural vocals and other times he uses a filtered effect which gives the album an interesting twist.
[youtube width=“425” height=“25”]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Di4GRuZ2l1c
True Womanhood – Basement Membranes
Eerie, dark, and texturally fascinating, this debut album features vviolent crashes and other weird sounds as percussion which round out this experimental album from three DC natives. Experimental like early Radiohead, but way more accessible. Play if you feel like going on a unconventional journey.
[youtube width=“425” height=“25”]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tIlaeGeTYqw&feature=related
Sarah Jarosz – Song Up In Her Head
While the female vocals are almost on the verge of being too simple, the contrasting intricacies of the composition and instrumentation of each song creates a very pleasing overall balance. The picking, strumming, and plucking of strings rivals that of Mumford & Sons, but the lyrics aren’t quite as profound. Play if you want to add some bluegrass flavor without making you listeners lose their daytime appetite.
[youtube width=“425” height=“25”]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MIF9U4KDdWg
Tunng- And Then We Saw Land
And Then We Saw Land
Sprinkled with bursts of electric guitars, woodwind riffs, and synthesizer blips, this is twangy, sensitive Brit folk-rock with soft, sweet vocal harmonies (think The Boy Least Likely To). It’s oh-so-precious and it improves with repeated listens.
[youtube width=“425” height=“25”]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pv6-IYZTGYU
Laura Marling- I Speak Because I Can
Beautiful British folk. The songs are soft and poetic working off of Marling’s amazing voice and acoustic guitar. She’s not as sad as she is defiant in this one.
[youtube width=“425” height=“25”]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1NPLHpirxq8
The White Stripes- Under Great White Northern Lights
If you love The White Stripes you’re going to love this live album. Jack White showcases his amazing talent as a guitarist and constantly gets creative with whatever song he is playing. This is on that sounds better the louder you listen to it.
[youtube width=“425” height=“25”]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U3E-a_IJpsw
Manchester Orchestra- Live at Park Ave.
Super slow paced live songs that are pretty stripped down and simple. If you’re a fan of down tempo live music, you’ll probably like this one too.
[youtube width=“425” height=“25”]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d3bEiONxy3M
River City Extension- And the Unmistakable Man
And the Unmistakable Man
This is the kind of album a guy writes after he had a nasty break up. Energetic out of frustration there is still a hint of loneliness. They use instruments that at first come together as Tex-Mex, but they do so in a way that gives it a pop tempo at times.
Jesse Malin and the St. Marks Social – Love it to Life
Jesse Malin is back on the map with his latest release. Loud pianos, jumping guitars, and drums that keep up a fast beat, create a rock sound that is sure to get you moving and stomping your feet. “The Archer” and “Lonely at Heart” were inspired by Salinger which is evident because these songs are softer than the rest of the album. Very cohesive and catchy Malin proves he isn’t ready to stop making music yet.
Communist Daughter – Soundtrack to the End
Soundtrack to the End
Simple, sweet and luscious this six piece Minnesota band debuts with a melancholy pop sounding album. Never hard, they smoothly transition from song to song and blend dreamy boy/girl harmonies reminiscent of Belle & Sebastian to give listeners a warm feeling. They make sad lyrics sound happy and will be easy to get into.
Night Driving in Small Towns – Serial Killer
Serial Killer
Hushed and quiet, this duo is a lighter version of Rilo Kiley but with equal male and female vocals. They incorporate youthful, intimate lyrics with pretty harmonies and at times remind me a lot of Stars minus the synth and more amateur. Even though the production of this album could have been better, it will provide a perfect blend into your indie show.
herMajesty – Images from the Vanishing Night
Not really my cup of tea, but worth a listen. Enchanting post-rockish with a lead singer who sounds like he’s from some old Morrisey-ish type band. Play if you’re feeling a little curious for something different.
Meklit Hadero- On a Day Like This
I am seriously addicted to this album! Fresh, easy going, jazzy and R&B inspired, I feel like I’m floating on clouds listening to the intoxicating vocals of Meklit. Violins, light drums & jazz instruments paint the perfect backdrop for her breezy lyrics. Along the same lines of Fiona Apple, Florence, just mix in a soulful, Ethiopian twist.
Elsinore- The Chemicals EP
Elsinore is in the FYC of indie rock school – they just can’t decide on what they want their sound to be yet. While their slow numbers have potential (think the XX), their more up tempo tracks are what stand out (think a less mousy Ben Gibbard with a clash of Temper Trap). Track 5 rightly named “Yes Yes Yes,” comes out of nowhere at the end, with a mad blend of clapping, horns, and electronic beats. This is the sound they should major in, hands down (or up!)
[youtube width=“425” height=“25”]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZBjHdMJdwCI
Dr. Dog – Shame, Shame
Shame, Shame
This album makes me happy. It’ll make you happy, too. It’s like one of those mix cds you find jammed under the passenger’s seat it’s familiar, nostalgic even, yet surprisingly refreshing. Dr. Dog has truly embraced their sound (think Wayne Coyne of the Flaming Lips, or the Morning Benders singing 50’s Brit rock this time adding layer upon layer of synths, vocal harmonies, and surging guitar hooks. It’ll be a shame shame if you don’t play this.
[youtube width=“425” height=“25”]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6yMe4Qf9nrg
Tune in tonight to “Saturday Night Soul and R&B” with host Mir.I.am from 9 to 11 p.m. for a revealing interview with Chilli of the Grammy awarding winning, multi-platinum and iconic, TLC.
Expect to hear Chilli discuss her new reality show “What Chilli Wants” premiering on VH1 4/11 at 10:30 p.m., her love for Michael Jackson, romance with ex-flame, R&B singer Usher and more. For detailed information on “What Chilli Wants” visit VH1.COM and follow Chilli on Twitter.
*In the event that NC State’s baseball game is on air, the show will resume immediately following.
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LBLB Photos from April 8
Last Year’s Men
Created with Admarket’s flickrSLiDR.
The Temperance League
Created with Admarket’s flickrSLiDR.
1. M.I.A came out this week against Twilight in a recent interview with NME. After being offered to record a song for the Twilight soundtrack she said, “They asked me– luckily Jimmy (Lovine, boss at Interscope) had beef with the Twilight people, so he stepped in and told them to fuck off.” M.I.A also came out against Lady Gaga stirring up reactions in fans saying, “People say we’re similar, that we both mix all these things in the pot and spit them out differently,” she said, “but she spits it out exactly the same. None of her music’s reflective of how weird she wants to be or thinks she is.” (via NME)
2. Wilco will be curating their own festival at the Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art. The band will be headlining the “Solid Sound Festival.” Alongside Wilco, and number of side projects from members of the band will also be joining. This will be Wilco’s only show over the summer, and it will take place in mid-August. (via Pitchfork)
3. Mates of State will be releasing a cover album entitled “The Spaghetti Incident?” The album is currently available for streaming only. The band covers acts including Girls, Death Cab for Cutie, Belle and Sebastian, and many more. (via Pitchfork)
4. Dan Deacon has remixed Owen Pallett’s “Lewis Take Off His Shirt” for the b-side to Pallett’s 12’ single that is set to release June 22. Pallett is planning on spending the next few months touring both North America and Europe. (via Pitchfork)
5. British folk star Laura Marling has come out against the criminalization of illegal downloads. In offering her reasoning she said, “I don’t think people should be criminalized for getting music for free because it’s there, it’s offered to them.” She added, “It’s promised to them by the internet server people, it’s promised to them by the phone companies. I think it’s their responsibility.” (via NME)
Categories
EOT26 Shoes to Fill 4/5/10
This week we interview the Chancellor Woodson on his first day on the job in EOT, Hear This covers Fridays on the Lawn and DTH Diversions showcase, and Community Canvas cover the Full Frame Film Festival.
As most of you know, the spring edition of Shakori Hills Grassroots Music Festival (April 22nd-25th) is rapidly approaching. For those of you who don’t know about the festival, Shakori Hills is a four day experience, which exhibits various dance, art, and music. With over 50 bands performing on four stages, we wanted to give you a taste of some of the talented acts of the festival. Due to various N.C. State baseball games interrupting the much beloved Local Beat during April, we’ve asked some of our favorite Shakori Hills musicians to join us in the WKNC studio earlier on Friday afternoons for the remainder of the month.
Take a look at who’s dropping in:
This Friday – April 9th, 2010
Inflowential (1-2pm w/ DJ Mick and DJ Kligz)
Bowerbirds (2-3pm w/ DJ Mick and DJ Kligz)
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Friday – April 16th, 2010
The Beast and GarDel w/ Special K 2 to 3 p.m.
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Friday – April 23rd, 2010
The Honeycutters (11am-12pm w/ DJ Kligz)
If Fridays weren’t already your favorite days of the week, then hopefully WKNC will change that with these great interviews. Be sure to tune in online or at 88.1FM. Also, check out our spring Fridays on the Lawn concert this Friday on Harris Field at N.C. State featuring local bands Aminal and Bright Young Things. The show is free and so are the t-shirts and pizza. Don’t you just love Fridays?