Kasabian's entire sophomore record, out September 12, can be heard at their myspace page. They must be huge in the UK--they have over 22,000 friends. This album isn't as blatant about ripping off the original Madchester bands, though you can certainly here some Happy Mondays in there as well as some Chemical Brothers meets Oasis.
----------------------------------------------------------------------

Jeff Hanson wowed me with his first record, while his second record, as good as he is, was missing some sparks. His next one on Kill Rock Stars, due in early 2007, will have more people comparing him to an angelic Elliott Smith while I will be looking for that initial wowness. He's on tour in September, which includes September 11 in New York.
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As if Stereolab doesn't have enough releases already, Rhino is putting out a Stereolab anthology, Serene Velocity, August 29. although it seems skimpy with only 16 tracks. includes songs released as seven-inch singles and songs recorded between 1993 and 2004 that were on Stereolab's seven (!) Elektra studio albums. Stereolab ring tones! because i don't even have a cell phone! Text Stereo to 74466*

Over the Atlantic: Junica (Carpark)
release: September 2006
styles: Sweet Indie Electronic
similar: Postal Service, Casiotone for the Painfully Alone, Brittle Stars
rating: ***1/2

After listening to "History Never Repeats" from Split Enz 100 times, it's time to move on to another, more contemporary band from New Zealand. Over the Atlantic are duo Bevan Smith and Nik Brinkman, who have put together a breezy debut of innocent, harmonizing vocals, soft little Casio-style percussion and when needed, guitar. It's very indie electronic, but with a song titled "Kevin Shields," we'll guess that Over the Atlantic felt a small influence from My Bloody Valentine. "Honest Words" is a big winner on Junica, in which the cute vocals jump around ringing guitar and happy synth. The best thing I've heard from New Zealand since, you know, Split Enz. -Kenyon

girl you know it's new. via webby sites.

Killers 10.03.06

Ima Robot 9.12.06

Girl you know it's new. click on the magic words.

Freescha: Head Warlock Double Stare (out September 19 on Attacknine Records) experimental, avant-garde sci-fi fantasy disembodiness. Moby loves them. And they love Moby.
----------------------------
Your Black Star: "Oh Jesus" (full record out October 17 on Wonka Vision)ex-Elliott (non-screamy on Revelation records). similar: Hum, Swervedriver.
----------------------------
Sandi Thom: "I Wish I Was a Punk Rocker" (record out August 29 on RCA)i wish your lyrics weren't so obvious. someone at RCA liked her webcasts from her flat in London. blop. similar: Katherine McPhee, KT Tunstall.
---------------------------
Oxygen Ponies: clips from s/t release out August 8. band name could be worse i guess. sim: Lambchop, East River Pipe, Ryan Adams. someone have a witty comment please?
---------------------------

oh wow look how diverse i am! now i can make a profile on myspace and say "i listen to everything. except rap and country."

=====================================

girl you know it's new. two videos from peoples with funny names.

Kaki King - "Yellowcake" (record out August 8 on Velour) mystical. sim: Tegan and Sara, Joanna Newsom. Windows. Real. Quicktime.
---------------------------
Landon Pigg - "Can't Let Go" (out July 25 on RCA) non-mystical. more like, look at me see how cute i am. ram. asx. mov.

The first hour of MTV. and second.

First, thanks a lot VH1 Classic for not doing it right. After about 20 minutes of build up with the Apollo rocket countdown, they aired the videos and only tiny clips of the VJs and no original commercials. Gotta pay the bills in 2006, not the ones in 1981 I guess. Instead of Nina Blackwood, Alan Hunter et al, we got a girl giving us tidbits and some comments from artists. Fortunately, there's a section at mtv.com that has the entire hour in its original form, divided up by segments. At the moment.

The videos: we finally found out that the second video aired was Pat Benatar "You Better Run". The third was Rod Stewart. Both of them ended up having another video in the SECOND hour, Rod Stewart had a third going into the third hour, and the Pretenders had THREE as well ("Brass in Pocket", "Tattooed Love Boys", "Message of Love"). Lucky for them, their second record came out just two weeks after MTV's debut. As MTV was so new, half the videos are taken from concerts. This I very much remember from the early days, which explains Bruce Springsteen's 10-minute "Rosalita". Many of the videos are from artists that were never to be heard from again. Robin Lane and the Chartbusters, anyone? cue chirping crickets. So, some of the songs actually sucked, as the station needed to fill time with whatever was available. One of the more enlightening videos was the last one of hour one: Split Enz "History Never Repeats". In addition to its title begging for a comment in relation to MTV, it proves that the band had another great song besides "I Got You." Now, to the video, which is hella more interesting than "I Got You". Sadly the picture quality is shitty.

Hello Stranger: s/t (Aeronaut Records/Four Square Death Match)
release: August 8, 2006
styles: Light-hearted pop/rock
similar: Nina Gordon, Garbage, Persephone's Bees
rating: **

I don't get this band. They're on this little label, yet sound as polished as Avril Lavigne. Their press photo suggests something adventurous and the album cover suggests something either glammy, mystical or electronic or a combination of those. And they toured with roots rockers Kings of Leon? What's going on!? It's poppy rock pop, and even though it's not horrible, it's making me think of Save Ferris or the Cranberries. I'm just saying. The synthesizer saves them from being a big turkey, that and the fact that they turned down major labels and didn't sell out. If not for those things, I'd have to say that Hello Stranger is as cliche as when its name is spoken in teen television dramas. You know what I mean, like when a character randomly runs into another somewhere and they're all like "hello stranger." For real though, Hello Stranger is a clever band name. -Kenyon

Update on Kenyon in a High School Story: Last week MTV (25 years blah blah blah) had new episodes of HSS scheduled for Tuesday nites. Now it's not on the schedule at all for nites, so that they may bring you Final Fu in which they seek the next Bruce Lee. There are 8 episodes of Final Fu on today, within a 24 hour period. F Final Fu in the face.

The Sails: s/t (Rainbow Quartz)
release: June 27, 2006
styles: Neo-Psychedelic Pop
similar: Essex Green, Telepathic Butterflies, High Dials
rating: ****

Few things in life make me giddy. The light-hearted sweetness of songs like "She’s a Rainbow" by the Stones and finding new Brit pop bands who actually deserve comparisons to the Beatles. Here we've got both. The Sails hail from London and perform painfully cute songs about love and candy! Their self-titled debut is a sugar high that never crashes, complete with charming harmonies and bittersweet symphonies. Some of the songs ("See Myself") are simple and catchy, while others like "Peter Shilton" dazzle with their depth. Regardless, all songs will stick in your head like cotton candy kisses. -Shannon

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Vlor: A Fire is Meant for Burning (Silber)
release: Summer 2006
styles: Ambient Acoustic
similar: most of the Silber roster
rating: **1/2

Thank goodness I just happen to wake up at 5am to listen this minimal, guitar-centered collaboration from some of Silber records' all-stars. As we all know, the early morning is the best time to listen to this kind of thing. On A Fire, main guy Brian John Mitchell has Jon DeRosa of Aarktica, Mike VanPortfleet of Lycia and others add reverbed acoustic guitar and more reverbed acoustic guitar, doing away with the need to rock. The better, more engaging tracks come when there's an airy vocal, bass or keyboard, which, as minimal as it is, adds depth and spookiness that the guitar can't achieve. Yeah, more of that, please. The guitar is way too lonely. -Kenyon

for real on craigs list:


"The BEATLES destroyed Western Civilization. After observing pop culture since 1960, I am fully convinced that the Beatles are responsible for causing the end of civilization AS IT HAD BEEN KNOWN. MTV, VH1, and any Phil Collins song, is a testament to this. Stupidity, ineptidude, a disrepect for law and reason, on all levels, and rampant greed rule the world as it exists today. You're too stupid to know this."
-------------------------

"shark week. woohoo!! "
----------------------

too new.

Right on Dynamite . hand claps. you gotta love hand claps.
-----------------------------

The Knife - "Silent Shout". not to be confused with No Knife and Knife Skills. Swedish sultry electronic dance with whispery vocals. record out on Mute, July 25, 2006.

The Polyphonic Spree announced two weeks of West Coast dates in September, including five supporting Hasidic reggae star Matisyahu. Who? whoops, awkward. The Poly Spree--26 members on last count--devoted much of early 2006 recording its third album which has no release date, but expected sometime in 2007. Check the recording process on the band's studio blog at http://www.thefragilearmy.com.
------------------------------------------

Nitzer Ebb, a complete opposite of Poly Spree, is touring for serious. If you're over 25 and went to clubs, you may have heard of them.

leave your cell phones at the door.
-------------------------------------------
new schmew

The Kooks -- stream this sh*t. or this. it's late, i'm going to bed, so i'll just say, um, Britty bratty punky rock ala Art Brut, Kaiser Chiefs, rougher edged Blur and sh*t. record out october 3 on astralwerks. they're big in UK. good for them. thanks, goodnite.

into the future. new music in the hooouuussseeee.

The Hourly Radio - "Crime Does Pay" . record out September 5. played with Clap Your Hands Say Yeah and stellastarr.
----------------
Favourite Sons - "Hang On Girl" . people from Rollerskate Skinny and Aspera. record out September 12 on Vice. fresh.
----------------

VH1 Classic will air the first 24 hours of MTV on August 1. It's about time.

Shannon's got review and photos of Peaches at Irving Plaza.

best of 2006 so far. not in order.

editors- the back room (fader)
cat power- the greatest (matador)
madonna- confessions on a dancefloor (wb)
she wants revenge- s/t (geffen)
yeah yeah yeahs- show your bones (interscope)
mates of state- bring it back (barsuk)
elefant- black magic show (kemado)
goldfrapp- supernature (mute)
peaches- impeach my bush (xl)
band of horses- everything all the time (subpop)
------------------------------
Sick. of. you. i'm so sick. so sick of you. in order.

James Blunt- "Beautiful"
Daniel Powter- "Bad Day"
KT Tunstall- "Black Horse and the Cherry Tree"
Fray- "Over My Head"
------------------------------

Classic vintage video
Phil Collins: Take Me Home (1986)
What's more epic about this song, which is anchored by a comforting keyboard loop, is the many famous locales in the video, most of which can be identified. Phil Collins made a small footnote in history when he played Live Aid in the United States AND London in the same day. That was nothing. Here he's in like 20 cities within 6 minutes. How in the world does he do it?

The Gersch: s/t (Tortuga)
release: June 6, 2006
styles: Sludgy Lo-Fi Stoner Doom Metal
similar: Black Sabbath, Wolf Mother, Fu Manchu
rating: ***

The ass kicking thing about the now non-existent Gersch is that they can be seriously heavy without ever entering the tempos of most metal and hardcore and metalcore bands. This gathering of lost recordings from the 90s uncovers a short-lived obscurity that forms its lyrics from the "poetic dialogue" of Conan the Babarian. I don't remember Conan saying much in that first film, and the Gersch's lyrics aren't easy to decipher. This isn't, however, about lyrics. It's about guitar distortion that is thicker than Conan's muscles. -Kenyon
---------------------

The Editors limited edition rarities EP is as ace as the Back Room. It includes a cover of Stereolab's "French Disko" and a wicked remix of "Munich." Tour dates this summer as well as gigs on TV, including The Late Late Show in August.
------------------------------

The Coral Sea: Volcano and Heart (Hidden Agenda)
release: June 27, 2006
styles: Symphonic Somber Indie Rock
similar: Sea Ray, JJ72, Delgados, Keane
rating: ***1/2

Many bands want to be Radiohead, specifically the Radiohead that made OK Computer. The Coral Sea just wants to rewrite Pablo Honey and add strings while rocking like JJ72. And by golly, it works. -Kenyon

Surprise Cat Power gig this Tuesday at Hiro Ballroom, NYC. No talking please.

Adam Green, where has the love gone? is it in your music? I'll let you know as soon as I hear the new record, out July 25. He'll be at the Virgin Megastore in Union Square NYC to promote. In other Moldy Peach news, Kimya Dawson is about to have a baby. Keep tabs via her profile on myspace. Here's both of them in full costume for "Lucky Number Nine."

new audio and video in the hooouussseee.

I Love You But I've Chosen Darkness- "According To Plan" video. White light and fog. So mysterious. record out now on Secretly Canadian.

see, look...mysterious!
----------------------------------------

Everclear- "Hater". from the upcoming record out September 12. I'll take "Santa Monica" or "Heartspark Dollarsign" over this watered-down cliche nonsense any day.
-----------------------------------------

Mojave 3- "Breaking the Ice" video. (from Puzzles like You out June 20 on 4AD). former shoegazers once again re-invent themselves into upbeat summery indie pop.
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Sean Lennon- film that supplements his upcoming record out September 26. He's got some imagination, that Sean Lennon.

Kaiju Big Battel. August 4 at Warsaw in Brooklyn. Monsters are waiting. like the band yo!

Now is a good time to show you excerpts from my feature story involving Dr. Cube and the Chief Kaiju Officer, originally printed in the Long Island Press a few years ago.

...a hybrid of World Wrestling Entertainment, Godzilla, Jackass, and yes, the gross-out antics of GWAR. Maybe mastermind and Chief Kaiju Officer David Borden can help explain: "It’s a struggle between good and evil. I guess the point is to stop the world from being demolished by huge destructive evil beasts." Good enough.............does anyone get injured? "Not very often," Borden once again ensures us. "The Kaiju Regulatory Commission is really good at evacuating cities. Otherwise, thousands would die when the monsters came crashing into town." Whew, thank heavens. If you do witness a show, just don’t get too close. Unless you want "toxic waste" or "monster blood" on you. And if you want to get lectured by a diabolical surgeon, Dr. Cube is more than willing to offer his insults. "I always try to enlighten drunk humans with an eloquent speech on the perks of joining my evil Posse," he states without a hint of satire. "They usually eat up my every word.".....With such mayhem in the square-circle (which usually is contained by a steel cage), Borden is reluctant to enter. "I never get in the ring. It’s extremely dangerous and I'd probably lose my life if I tried. Giant city-crushing monsters are huge and I'd have little chance of getting out alive. When Kaiju Big Battels go down, I usually get as far away as possible."
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No photos from Siren Fest here, look elsewhere.
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I just sold an old school pencil sharpener on eBay for $3.25. Big let down.
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Someone just posted three comments on here. that guy rules.
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Oh My Rockness recommends Siren Fest, then trashes it in a very clever way. cool! Except they gave a "no comment" for She Wants Revenge. Here's what it should read: Even though they rip off Interpol and Fischerspooner, hipsters are too hip to admit that the record is actually good. Forecast for Saturday: Hazy Hot Humid. Fun times I'm sure.

James Figurine: Mistake Mistake Mistake Mistake (Plug Research)
release: July 11, 2006
styles: Indie Electronic
similar: Styrofoam, Her Space Holiday, Looper, Age of Rockets
rating: **

Mistake is exactly the solo album you'd expect from a guy who's been in the Postal Service, Dntel and Figurine. It's also the kind of album James Figurine (aka Jimmy Tamborello) was destined to make after touring through Germany with Lali Puna while listening to techno ad naseum. The majority of Mistake is the standard, light-hearted indie instrumental electro-pop that wouldn't sound half as good if it was made with guitars and live percussion. But even with those synthy-sizers, it's still dull, as Mistake is too redundant, simple and meandering. Most tracks go over 5 minutes and don't end up going anywhere exciting. And that guest vocal by Jenny Lewis? It's nearly non-existent. Not that I care about Jenny Lewis. She and Rilo Kiley are overrated anyway. -Kenyon

Ministry- "Lies Lies Lies" (from Rio Grande Blood, released in May, not to be confused with the Thompson Twins song) Ministry is still grilling George Bush, and they keep on writing songs about him. That might be a tired thing to do at this point, but remember that Ministry was yelling about the first George Bush 15 years ago. This latest one is typical Ministry form with thrashing guitars, breakneck tempo.

Various Artists: Little Darla Has a Treat for You v.24 Endless Summer Edition (Darla)
release: June 5, 2006
styles: Delicious Indie Pop and Indie Electronic and stuff
rating: ****

Given the large quantity of music that Darla and its family of labels has to offer, the Little Darla comps have been a huge help in sampling fresh songs and artists. This one is like a big mix tape of sorts. With 2 CDs and 36 tracks, there's just so much to absorb. Choice artists include Follow the Train, Robin Guthrie, Mahogany, Sweet Trip, Voxtrot, New Radiant Storm Kings plus many more soon to be discovered treasures. Also includes Depth Affect sampling Gwen Stefani over indie electronic and Boyracer doing a cover of the B-52's "Give Me Back My Man." Didn't see that coming. -Kenyon
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An Albatross: Blessphemy [of the Peace-Beast Feastgiver and the Bear-Warp Kumite] (Ace Fu)
release: June 27, 2006
styles: insane noise
similar: Melt Banana, the Locust
rating: ???

So this is like those other noise core bands that have shrieking vocals you can't understand and really short songs where you can't determine the endings because then they immediately just start the next song. Except these guys have six members and a Farfisa organ. Sounds like f*cking anarchy. Their gigs are supposed to be off the hook. -Kenyon

Schedule for the big show at Coney Island.
-----------------------------------

Another big show, way out West. Musicfest NW in Portland, Oregon in September. Line-up includes rivals the Dandy Warhols and Brian Jonestown Massacre. dig it! also: Silver Jews, Stephen Malkmus, Zombies, Mooney Suzuki.

mp3s in the hoooooouussseee!

Girl Talk: "Pure Magic" and "Bounce That" (out now on Illegal Art)
Mash ups to end all mash ups. See how many samples you can identify. it's like a game. better than photo hunt. here's a few: Genesis, Digital Underground, Snap!, Banarama, the Breeders, Stevie Wonder, Steve Winwood (oh yea can you believe i knew that last one!?). the whole album has over 150 total. this kinda thing has been done--the avalanches rocked the house-- but not on this level. it's party time. -kenyon


putting your face on a record cover is egotistical. i'm pretending that girl talk knows this and is making fun of that.

what ever will we do without Sleater-Kinney? i...i feel like i'm losing a really good friend.
------------------------------

Robots in disguise. July 2007.
------------------------------

Blender knows best. even when it's looking like Spin. or is it vice versa.
------------------------------

I can't close my eyes and make it go away.

Please make the glaciers stop melting. The polar bears need something to walk on. And please stop the warming. I despise summer as it is. Whoops! too late! we're fudged. We did it to ourselves. And that's why it really hurts.


so anyway, ok cool, it's party time! let's blow sh*t up! who's got the beer yo!?

Sufjan Stevens: The Avalanche- Outtakes and Extras from the Illinois Album (Asthmatic Kitty)
release: July 11, 2006
styles: Indie chamber folk
similar: Simon & Garfunkel, Eric Matthews, Nick Drake, Leonard Cohen
rating: ****

This is ridiculous. If Sufjan Stevens has an outtakes record for every record about a state, we are never going to hear the end of it. Not from blogs, not from lesser-known celebrities, not from anyone. What a great plan! The Avalanche--21 tracks total, including some alternate versions--is worthy of an elaborate cheer from Stevens' cheerleading squad. Usually there is good reason why an artist's songs don't make the first cut. In this case, The Avalanche is made up of so many quiet A-list chamber and folk pieces that it has no problem working as a proper record (though Illinois was originally intended to be a double album anyway). For detailed gushing, see any other given review. -Kenyon

Every little thing that you say or do.
Madonna at Madison Square Garden, NYC. June 28, 2006
photos by Kenyon from section 424.


If her previous record was shit, Madonna's 2005 release Confessions on a Dancefloor is THE shit. Like the flowing trance-based tracks on Confessions, the event--Madonna's first date in New York City on this tour--was a non-stop run of glittery disco-electro dance that featured a whirlwind of lights, dancefloors with lights, dancefloors with trap doors, dancers doing headspins and gliding on rollerblades, and moving stage floors. Just when you thought the visuals at U2 and Nine Inch Nails had blown your mind, Madonna takes it one step further, without looking back at much of her past if only to modify it. When she did treat us to classic hits ("Like a Virgin" and "Lucky Star"), it was in an updated fashion that would fit in with the rest of her latest style. The new, more uptempo songs from Confessions were just as exciting as "Ray of Light" or "Music," the latter of which was mashed-up with "Disco Inferno." After an unbelievable 2 hours with no real breaks for an encore (although Madonna did get breathers while the visuals on screens took over or other people danced or sang), "Lucky Star" segued into "Hung Up" for a strong finish that had everyone singing about time moving slowly. Yea, she was on a cross for "Live to Tell." Calm down.


set list included: Confessions on a Dancefloor, Like a Virgin, Live to Tell, Ray of Light, Music, Lucky Star, La Isla Bonita

crowd report: we had a wave going just before showtime, hell yea! gay guy next to me says to his friend- "oh i have to call Francesco during "Sorry." blech. girl in front of me was friendly. Overall the usual but not bad, and definitely the most enthusiastic crowd at MSG i can remember, with the wave and all.

Joe Jack Talcum of the Dead Milkmen at the Cinema in Huntington Sunday nite. He actually played "Punk Rock Girl" and enlightened me with other Milkmen hits that i've missed out on. Local shows don't get much cooler than this.

then we jumped up on the table and shouted 'anarchy'!

Classic vintage video.
White Lion- "Wait" (1987)

There's way too many videos from pop-hair-metal bands from which to choose. And trust me, this won't be the first one on this blog. The criminally forgotten White Lion makes the cut because of fancy guitar solos (most notably in the cover of "Radar Love"), meaningful songs that weren't about partying, and hitting the top of MTV's top 20 video countdown. Despite those things, and because the 1989 follow-up came just before the grunge revolution, the band wasn't as long-lasting or popular as Def Leppard, Bon Jovi or Poison. "Wait" was White Lion's first hit single, and it's a stellar one. It's about wanting another chance. No...NEEDING. and needing is a responsibility.

Dirty on Purpose: Hallelujah Sirens (North Street)
release: June 27, 2006
similar: Yo La Tengo, All Natural Lemon and Lime Flavors, Appleseed Cast, Pale Saints styles: Indie Rock, Dream Pop
rating: ****

Dirty on Purpose first hit the spot with the darling Sleep Late for a Better Tomorrow EP which easily measured up to early 90s shoegazers the Pale Saints. The release of the long-awaited Hallelujah Sirens is the band's big starting point for the summer and with the girlish-boyish vocals and tranquil chiming guitars, it's a dreamy record that holds a lot of brilliance and only slightly comes up short of being the classic that the EP hinted at. Even so, it's still a solid debut full-length with lots to explore and appreciate, and smartly expands on the ideas of Sleep Late. The songs reverberate with quiet harmonies, pink noise guitar washes and an underlying mysticism. Hallelujah! -Kenyon

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Various Artists: GU10 (Global Underground)
release: June 20, 2006
styles: dance, electronic, DJ, house

If you're gonna listen to dance mixes like this, make sure not to listen to it through a player that doesn't allow tracks to freely flow from one to the next. When there's a pause (like the dumb player i'm using now), it defeats the purpose of these mixes. you gotta hear those beats matching. I may use this hook again for another review if i can't think of anything. This three-disc set celebrates Global Underground's 10 years in action, and features an abundance of its electronic euphoria since its inception. The first two cds compile tracks from the back catalog, most of which only those familar with the genres will know. Aside from Underworld, Fatboy Slim, Felix da Housecat and a few more, i've never heard of these people. I don't think they've heard of me either. oh! good one! The third cd is mostly house tracks from the early 90s. I'm glad to say i was listening to dream and Brit pop at the time. -Kenyon

i was up above it. now i'm down in it. or, bite the hand of person who taps you on the back and wants you to sit down because you're blocking his view even though almost everyone in the venue is standing.
nine inch nails/bauhaus/peaches at jones beach theater. june 17, 2006. photos by kenyon.


nin set: somewhat damaged, you know what you are?, sin, terrible lie, march of the pigs, the frail/the wretched, closer, burn, gave up, help me i am in hell, non-entity, only, wish, la mer, into the void, the big come down, dead souls, suck, get down make love, down in it, hurt, the hand that feeds, head like a hole.

nine inch nails was the first band i ever saw in a small venue in new york city. it was also before trent reznor and co. were able to fill a venue the size of jones beach, and before the industrial-rock of the breakthrough second album, the downward spiral, began crossing over to an impossibly diverse range of people, many of which have never heard of, oh let's say, bauhaus. having a record make an impact on you as a teenager and then seeing an artist get to such a popularity is a bitter pill to swallow. and i'm bitter. with this show, i've come full circle. and what a show. i'm sure it's the best thing that jones beach will have this year, given the lighting and combination of artists--one of the most exciting live rock acts, the founding goth band and an attention-grabber oozing with sex sex sex. that last one, known as peaches, is a naughty girl, singing about sucking on titties and f*cking the pain away. she's an entertainer too, and was confident enough to walk down into the crowd. [ps, peaches would be great to photograph close up, but didn't get photos due to it being light out still and me being too far from stage]. for a band that put out it's first record in 1980, bauhaus seemed as relevant as ever, and after this, i will need to try try again to adapt to something besides "third uncle" and "bela lugosi's dead," the latter of which with they finished.

bauhaus had some nice lights, but it was nothing compared to nine inches. in fact it's worth going to see nin just for the lights and effects. along with just about every well-known song and single played, it was a rather complete gig, ranging from newer arm-raising songs "you know what you are?" and "the hand that feeds" to old favorites "hurt," "sin" and "head like a hole." a neat surprise was the joy division cover of "dead souls." overall, the band kicked some serious ass, and i especially like it when the guys up front (i counted 5 people in band all together) run around in circles and throw sh*t.


crowd report: not too bad, music was loud enough to barely hear talking, even from as far back as we were. although i had to avoid a fight with the jerk behind me who didn't like me standing during nin. after some time in the front of the section, i realized sitting down [dude, hello? this is a f*cking hard rocking rock band] was the best route for photos anyway. during nin's "hurt" someone yelled out "we hurt too!". and many of us laughed.


bauhaus

new music/mp3/video in the houuuuussseeee.

Razorlight- "In the Morning" (from upcoming record due this summer) dudes, your name is very post-grunge. ok cool, so, British post-dance rock. let's do it.

Snow Patrol- "Chasing Cars." [real player] [windows] (from the record Eyes Open, out may 9) I remember when Snow Patrol was just some random indie rock band on the respected Jeepster label and now they're like big epic melancholy rock on a major label. fudge

Evermore- "It's Too Late" (from the record Dreams, out may 23) Evermore is HUGE in Australia. come on! how could you not know that?! style similar to Keane, band name similar to Nevermore.

Boy Eats Drum Machine- various streaming tracks. BEDM is little in Portland Oregon. usually indie-electronic-turntablism like this is set aside for vocals that are real cutesy. this guy's vocals are a little throaty, but the chorus hook for "let's get lost sometime" is pretty spectacular.

Hey check it out, I'm not at the club tonite. I'm resting up for Nine Inch Nails, Bauhaus and Peaches at Jones Beach tomorrow nite. I hear the Nikon/Tommy Hilfiger/Maxwell House Coffee Theatre is pretty strict about cameras.

Can I get a "hell yea!" to bicycles and basketball on a Monday night!? Jason Anderson (K Records) in a garage in Northport, Long Island last night.

Depeche Mode: Speak & Spell [Deluxe Double Edition] (Reprise/Sire/Mute/Rhino)
release: originally 1981, reissued June 6, 2006
styles: Synth Pop, New Romantic
similar: OMD, Soft Cell, Erasure, Human League
rating: ****

The Depeche Mode on Speak & Spell, the band's debut album, was a very different Depeche Mode. Casual listeners of the band's later work (Music for the Masses, Violator, Songs of Faith and Devotion) will never suspect that the bouncy upbeat synth pop came from the same artist. In a way, it didn't, given that early member Vince Clarke was the primary songwriter. Add to that Dave Gahan's still-boyish vocals and the difference is evident. Although its direction didn't fully shift for a couple more albums, Speak & Spell remains Depeche Mode's fresh, bright-eyed entry into the world. "Just Can't Get Enough" is of course the best known track here, but allow that to be the starting point here, even if it is the catchiest. "New Life" and "What's Your Name?" are rich with harmonies and romance, "Dreaming of Me" is one of the prettiest songs they've ever done and "Puppets" isn't much different from a lot of today's electro. Gahan's vocals have some trouble on "Tora! Tora! Tora!" and "Nodisco" includes the lyrics "move me disco, baby don't you let go" but considering what was around in 1981, there's little reason to complain. The serious fan will be more excited about the DVD, which features rare b-sides and an insightful 30-minute film about the beginnings of the band and the recording of Speak & Spell via interviews with band members, producers and other key players. The best of course is the early live footage when they wore biker hats. -Kenyon says go!

note: deluxe editions of Music for the Masses and Violator also reissued June 6.

The Cosmopolitans: Wild Moose Party (Dionysus)
release: Springish
styles: New Wave, Post-Punk
rating: ***1/2

Do you ever want to drop acid and travel in your mind back to a better time, probably before you were even born, when musicians weren’t ashamed to let loose and make cool-looking fools out of themselves? If so, then perhaps you should break out your best flip-wig and give the Cosmopolitan’s Wild Moose Party a spin.The album doesn’t contain any new music, but it might sound new to you if you weren’t hip enough to swing with the NYC new wave crowd in 1980. the cosmopolitans, two downright groovy chicks named Jamie K. Sims and Nel Moore, started as a North Carolina based experimental dance troop and turned into an awesome party band in which the girls sang, played keyboards and harmonica, hand clapped, baton twirled, and danced their asses off in front of a slew of different drummers.The girls' sound has an obvious B-52’s wild side, but is backed with a cutesy tongue in cheek feminist attitude (think Thee Headcoatees and/or the Slits). the compilation is genuinely old school, collecting studio sessions as well as live performances, including their best known single, "(How to Keep Your) Husband Happy", (inspired by the notorious Debbie Drake fitness album with the same name), and my personal favorite, "Chevy Baby", a weirdly voiced tale of a New York Post "true" story of a couple who trades in their baby for a chevy. hey, sounds like a good deal to me. -Shannon K Ronan

Classic vintage video.
Pete Shelley- "Homosapien"(1981)

Pete Shelley's one hit without his band the Buzzcocks was a fantastic bridging of punk and synth pop. Here he's more like an angry Gary Numan than anything else, and along with the typical early '80s visuals, the video for "Homosapien" is a definite classic.

blah blah blah Siren Fest blah blah blah additions to line-up blah blah

Scissor Sisters (mostly guys..I think)
Rogers Sisters (ok, yea those are girls)
Man Man (yea, that's guys)
Serena-Maneesh (a band not a girl)
Deadboy and the Elephantmen

noticing a weird trend here

new wave rave

Couch: Figur 5 (Morr Music)
release: June 13, 2006
styles: Post-Rock, Experimental
similar: Fridge, Appliance, other artists on Morr Music
rating: ***

Couch's music is much better than its name. One of many post-rock artists to come out of Germany, the band is just as skilled with the rock as it is with the electronics. On fifth outing Figur 5, they demonstrate this by exploring each method, sometimes separately, other times combining guitars with synth-bass and electronic percussion. What's nice about Figur 5 is that the tracks never sound like an improvised entanglement that goes on forever but instead a set of tight, well-configured designs. Plus it's on Morr Music, so..duh! -Kenyon

Primal Scream- "Country Girl" (new record, Riot City Blues--which of course is the perfect title--out today in UK, out soon in USA)
rating: ****

Jesus. After the two progressively aggressive electronic terror rock records, Primal Scream has written something that is actually considered pop music. It's a rewarding shift, as the band combines its gospel-house phase with an upbeat sing-along. And it's killer. Shit. -Kenyon

Manual: Bajamar (Darla)
release: May 15, 2006
styles: Meditative Ambient
rating: ****

It's only been a year since Jonas Munk Jensen's last release under the name Manual, and already he's made some of the most atmospheric, beautiful instrumental pieces heard in 2006. Most of Bajamar's bliss originates from processed guitars, which you'll never notice given the smoothness of the tones. And Jensen is so good with integrating a rainstorm, synth-voice and the obligatory ocean waves that there's hardly a sense that we've heard this type of minimalism before. -Kenyon

Shannon has video of Pearl Jam and My Morning Jacket from Thursday night.
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As if They Might Be Giants didn't have enough songs already, they wrote a bunch of songs on tour specifically for each venue they played. the Venue Songs DVD includes 11 videos for select songs. I recommend skipping over the guy from Comedy Central. available only at their website and shows.
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I was selling my vintage IG-88 Star Wars action figure on eBay and found THIS. Check the photo of him mowing the lawn. A bounty hunter has been domesticated!
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Momz-in-da Hood is cheesy and tacky as expected. I was disappointed that they don't rap. They just dance. And for this they get to be on NBC. Whoopee.
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Oh Henrietta, Pitchfork reported that Tracy + the Plastics "broke up," although there is nothing on the official website about this. (quotations because it's really only one person).
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Sonic Youth and Yeah Yeah Yeahs playing two shows together August 11, 12 at park pool in Brooklyn. Crowd will be in empty pool, most kids there to see YYYs won't know much about this Sonic Youth band.

Asobi Seksu: Citrus (Friendly Fire)
release: May 30, 2006
styles: Noise-Pop with Japanese vocals
rating: ***

The critics writing reviews for Citrus will gush that there's once again soft female vocals that alternate with English and Japanese. They'll mention that Asobi Seksu's guitars have a strong influence from My Bloody Valentine. In fact, if they've heard the terms "dream pop" or "shoegaze", even though they never really listened to anyone other than MBV, they will use those terms, even though this is more like noise-pop ("Pink Cloud Tracing Paper" and the end of "Red Sea" are blatantly MBV replicas, I'm sure the band knows this). They'll definitely say that they're part of the New York City scene. And they will translate the band's name to English. What they might do by mistake is assume that Asobi Seksu is one person, as a result of the band putting an image of the girl vocalist on the cover and all over everything else. That about encompasses the reviews. Except for Pitchfork, which will get into all sorts of details that you won't even have time to read. -Kenyon
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Radioinactive: Soundtrack to a Book (Stranger Touch)
release: May 16, 2006
styles: Hip-Hop, the kind that doesn't take itself seriously
rating: **

The press release for Radioinactive is trying to confuse me with circular logic: "Soundtrack to a Book is your favorite album's favorite album" and "Soundtrack to a Book is not a soundtrack or a book." Okay? Basically, this entire affair is perplexing. Radioinactive--who resembles a less bad-ass Everlast, less bad-ass only because in the press photo he's holding a robot--is one dude, who in one of these dance-electro-hip-hop tracks, refers to himself as "Radio." For a lot of his third album, it'd be great to know what he's expressing over the beats, neat sound effects and sampling. Because even though he gets props for rapping really quick, sorta like Barenaked Ladies, there are few things of which to make sense. -Kenyon

Post-hardcore veterans Helmet ("In the Meantime" motherf*ckers!) regroup. Band will release Monochrome, July 18 on Warcon records and play dates on Warped Tour. Band is in a Guns N Roses-type situation and now includes original founding vocalist/guitarist Page Hamilton and recent additions Chris Traynor (guitar), Mike Jost (drums) and Jeremy Chatelain (bass).
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Merge has got the latest from Camera Obscura. Plus tour dates to support Let's Get Out Of This Country, out June 6th.
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Okay, okay, after seeing video for "Steady Rollin'", I can tolerate Two Gallants enough to at least play on my radio show. ooo, ooo, can I do this? Cross between Beck, White Stripes, Kevin Devine and the Goo Goo Dolls. seriously! record out now on Saddle Creek.
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Lycia: The Burning Circle and then Dust (Silber)
release: Spring 2006 (originally issued in 1995)
styles: Ethereal Goth
similar: early Cocteau Twins, Black Tape for a Blue Girl, anything on Projekt records
rating: ****

For Silber records, it's a dream come true. The label always wanted to release records from Lycia, as the ambient-goth act has been a huge influence for Silber as well as artists already on the roster. For those familiar with the label or those artists, Lycia will be an excellent introduction and transition to one of the standards of the style. And The Burning Circle is an essential work from the band. If you were ever unhappy with the Cocteau Twin's less dark ethereal rock, Lycia fills the void for sure. Only complaint is that Tara Van Flower should have sang more. You know it. -Kenyon

Classic vintage video you never saw.
Mr.Mister: "Kyrie" (1985)
here we see Mr.Mister on an impressive stage, interspersed with clips of the band enjoying their few months of fame on the road, probably after the success of "Broken Wings." Haircuts are actually pretty cool. Aside from the singer. He just looks like Sting.

World Party: Dumbing Up (Seaview)
release: May 2, 2006 (originally issued in 2000)
styles: Adult Alternative Pop/Rock
similar: Bob Dylan with violins, The Verve's Urban Hymns
rating: ***

There's more history to the overlooked World Party than we thought. In fact, the story of band leader Karl Wallinger makes for an obvious candidate for Behind the Music. He was for a short time a member of Celtic rock band the Waterboys as well as involved in an early incarnation of the Alarm. He also helped record Sinead O'Connor's Lion and the Cobra. But after the original release of Dumbing Up, Wallinger had an aneurysm and couldn't speak, while four years ago his former band members and Robbie Williams allegedly stole a World Party song and made it a hit for Williams. Now that Wallinger has gained control of the WP catalog and he's fully functional, all the records are being re-issued for the people that didn't hear "Ship of Fools" and "Way Down Now" on alternative rock radio in the early '90s. Dumbing Up doesn't sound so much like a band as it does a solo work from Wallinger. The record is sparse, with acoustic guitar and light strings framing the backdrop for the distinctive vocals. And while many of these songs go on for a couple more minutes than necessary, the lyrics and arrangements are too wise-sounding to turn off. Except for the out-of-place, soul-infused "Here Comes the Future". -Kenyon

note: World Party is playing on Long Island May 29 (it's way out east at the Stephen Talkhouse, but still, that's Long Island)

Robin Guthrie: Continental (Darla)
release: May 15, 2006
styles: Ambient Bliss
similar: the Cocteau Twins
rating: ***1/2

One could say that Continental is the Cocteau Twins without the wondrous vocals of Liz Fraser. But on his second solo album (and first of four for Darla--woo!), her vocals are unexpectedly not missed, as the former guitarist of one of the most significant bands in underground rock piles on layers upon layers of heavenly guitar effects. Continental is a joyful listen, whether it's the bright, uplifting "Radiance" or the opening title track, one of several which could easily be from any point in the Cocteau's catalog. With the pretty instrumentals following the standard blueprint of shoegaze and dreampop which Guthrie helped to invent, some fans might want to see Guthrie explore other territories. It's more likely that they'll be happily satisfied with this and any other new work they can get. -Kenyon

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Unwed Sailor: Circles EP (Burnt Toast Vinyl)
release: May 2, 2006
styles: Post Rock, Experimental
rating: **

EPs are tricky. At best, a tryst with captivating music ending entirely too quickly. At worst, you’ve invested your time in a handful of songs that go nowhere. Unfortunately for Unwed Sailor, the latter scenario holds true for Circles, which consists of two lengthy instrumental tracks seamlessly melded together. 13 minutes into their 15 minute EP, the band finally finds its footing, landing on a pensive little melody with upbeat percussion and purposeful guitar ramblings. But beware, the road leading there is dreary and vacant. -Shannon K Ronan

The Candy Wrappers on the Floor Match Your Eyes.
Elefant at Webster Hall, New York. May 17, 2006.
with Sound Team and Aberdeen City.

Welcome to the Black Magic Show.

Set list: Black Magic Show, My Apology, Tonite Let's Dance, Ester, Why, Now That I Miss Her, Love, Lolita, Bokkie, Make Up, Don't Wait, Clown, Uh Oh Hello, Sunlight Makes Me Paranoid, Misfit.




I don't care if Diego is "hot". The music is hotter. And to the guy who went up front just after Sound Team and was talking loudly and singing loudly and horribly: I don't care how excited you are, you need to check yourself. Jerk.
Sound Team. Six people. 3 synths, yet still rock.

Aberdeen City. They sound like the Editors, who sound like Interpol, who sound like Joy Division. Guitarist had Joy Division shirt. So you see, it's all about Joy Division.

More photos HERE.

Alice in Chains is playing a brief small venue tour (including Bowery Ballroom in New York, May 23) with new vocalist. Enough said.

The iOs: In Sunday Songs (Kanine)
release: May 16, 2006
styles: Indie Rock, Indie Pop
similar: My Favorite, Finechina, High Water Marks, Slingshot Dakota
rating: **

I guess we should be impressed that the New York Times compared the iOs to the band Stars and the New York Press said they are a "lush new wave indie pop boy-girl group." Indie pop boy-girl group they may be. The "lush new wave" part is pushing it. In Sunday Songs, the band's debut full-length, doesn't feature anything particularly special. At least until they get to "Rockets" and "Deeper Sleep." That's when the band really shows some musical and vocal talent with warm, and yes, "lush" rock. But before and after that, the iOs only hunt for a melody and a way to get the synth, guitar and forced vocals to make peace with each other. -Kenyon

Preview the upcoming record from the Futureheads. Out June 13 on Vagrant/Startime. Bands on Vagrant include Dashboard Confessional and Saves the Day. But Paul Westerberg is on there too, so it's okay.

Classic Vintage video you never saw.
Suede: "The Drowners" (1993 UK version)

The Situation: s/t (Elephant Stone)
release: April 18, 2006
styles: British-inspired Indie Rock
rating: **

This Philadelphia quartet has all the right influences for a great rock band: Stone Roses, the Jam, the Cure, Velvet Underground, Smiths, Echo & the Bunnymen, the Verve, et al. Those influences seemed to have pumped so much England into the Situation's veins that the band is now more British than American. Christopher (don't call him Chris!) Tucker's vocals are a desperate combination of Oasis, Embrace and Stone Roses, while the bass player goes by the name of Laz (like Gaz from Supergrass and Bez from Happy Mondays). On the Situation, the band attempts bigness ("Paper and Pen"), quietness ("Latchkey Kids") and raw rock 'n' roll ("Mocking Fate"). They're pretty good at mocking roots (check out the nod to Bob Dylan on "Black Cat Dice") and sometimes they even do it competently. The record, however, goes on for about 20 minutes longer than necessary, reinforcing the Situation's unfulling second-hand Brit rock. -Kenyon

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Run Chico Run: Slow Action (Boompa)
release: March 21, 2006
styles: Frustrating Sorta Experimental Indie Rock
rating: *

Slow Action begins promisingly with a solid track on the fence of indie rock and indie electronic. From there, however, the Canadian duo takes a big nose dive into sleepy, directionless vocals and a combination of instruments and sounds that never gel. This might work here and there on a soundtrack to a film that's copying a film by Jim Jarmusch, but an entire album of this mess is a disaster not unlike the remake of the Poseidon Adventure. -Kenyon

BREAKING NEWS>>> there are actually some bands playing at Siren Fest this year that Kenyon likes.
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The upcoming Kid 606 involves mad bouncy IDM-synth.
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Dungen video and tour dates. I didn't give them a chance because the name is wack, but now I have seen the light. They're like a darker, more psychedelic version of Super Furry Animals. Plus, their on Kemado records.
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Con Amore used my photo as their primary on myspace.

The 1900s: Plume Delivery EP (Parasol)
release: May 30, 2006
styles: Indie Pop, Chamber Pop, Neo-Psychedelia
similar: Camera Obscura, Essex Green, Ladybug Transistor
rating: ***

The time period of the 1900s is so in the past. We are so in the future now, being 2006 and all. The Chicago band the 1900s is one Harpsichord in the past and a horn or two in the present. They're in the future too, as this debut EP comes out May 30. The six members apply enough Mamas and Papas-style vocals and Farfisa and Hammond organ to avoid being called a Belle and Sebastian clone, while immersing themselves in the edgier side of '60s sunshine rock long enough to dismiss one of the vocalists for replicating the calming voice of Cat Power's Chan Marshall. -Kenyon

Imaad Wasif: s/t (Kill Rock Stars)
released: April 11, 2006
style: Singer-songer
rating: ***1/2

When I first listened to this album, I wrongly assumed that the birds chirping sweetly outside my window were a hidden charm lurking behind the prettiest harmonies of this sappy lovesick acoustica. Alas, they were just birds out my window. Still, the album is perfect for spring time sunsets, and Imaad Wasif is a bulb on the verge of blooming for years now. Before embarking on his current tour with the Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Wasif has dabbled in lesser known projects like Alaska! and The New Folk Implosion. Check out his self-titled solo debut if you’re still bummed over losing beloved singer/songwriters Jeff Buckley and Elliott Smith, or if you want to know where the YYYs have been drawing their mushy inspiration from. -Shannon K Ronan

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The Spirit That Guides Us: North and South (Goodfellow)
release: March 28, 2006
styles: Indie Rock, Emo, Post Hardcore
similar: ...Trail of Dead, Desaparacidos
rating: ***

With seven dudes in this band including two vocalists, The Spirit that Guides Us really has no excuse not to rock. On North and South they do rock, even when some minor post-hardcore cliches are present. Tying in politically concious lyrics, the Netherlands band isn't ordinary enough to be just another statistic at purevolume.com. -Kenyon

Radiohead is touring at smallish venues, including two dates at the Theater at Madison Square Garden June 13 and 14. eh, big deal. Set lists will mostly be from newer material that we haven't heard yet. See! I told you! big deal! Tickets already went on sale. Obviously this is sold out.
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The Walkmen will release their third studio album on May 23. "A Hundred Miles Off is without a doubt our most solid effort yet," says singer/guitarist Hamilton Leithauser, "...We're all sure it's the best record we've done so far." Walkmen! please don't be cliche! I thought you guys were COOL! New York date for tour is May 24 at Webster Hall.
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Matt Friedberger of The Fiery Furnaces will release a debut double solo album August 8. Ooo ooo, does this mean I should "shit a brick" or something?
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One more tour- Editors. this summer. July 28 in New York at Irving Plaza.
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Ok enough tour stuff. Radio Indie Pop is streaming the new Built to Spill. You can alternate this with the latest Death Cab for Cutie that you are listening to on the iPod.
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Nick Cave wrote and provided music for The Proposition, a Western starring John Hurt and Guy Pearce, which opened in select theaters May 5. see the trailer.

Classic vintage video you never saw.
The Smiths- "Boy with the Thorn in His Side" (1986)

Although the Smiths had an incredible amount of great singles, they didn't make many videos. The ones they did make are pretty dull. And most of them only have Morrissey ("Girlfriend in a Coma", "Stop Me if You Think..."). That leaves only a few videos where the band is merely playing together in a room. When he went solo, Morrissey made some decent videos that actually had a visual story. While those videos are nice, it's a shame the band didn't make an effort on this. Obviously they could have done so much more with "Boy". At least here there are some good close-ups of Johnny Marr. And the other two guys.

here comes your band.

fool the world: the oral history of a band called pixies.
book by josh frank and caryn ganz. review by shannon k ronan.

five years ago, josh frank "started thinking what would a ‘rock musical’ for [his] generation look like, and it was obvious. it would look like the pixies." apparently researching the myth-laden, gossip-drenched history of the pixies turned out to be a much larger undertaking than he had anticipated. so he axed his original plan to write a play on the life of charles thompson (aka. black francis, frank black), and instead compiled his findings into a book which chronicles the life of the pixies.

frank, who describes himself as a "rock dramatist" (not to be confused with rock journalist), warned me within the first few pages that i should stop reading if what i craved was sleazy stories of illicit sex, drugs, and rock n’ roll. still i kept reading, hoping that his years of endless interviewing would shed some light on the shadiest parts of the pixies past. unfortunately, the book only confirmed what i already know about the formation, breakup, and eventual reunion of the band, which is nothing.

basically kim deal and charles thompson never really got along because they both wanted to lead the band. he let her sing a few songs, the fans la-la-loved it, and he freaked. she partied hard, he became reclusive. tensions built, they got bored and split up (via thompson’s notorious fax) to pursue other projects (the amps, the breeders, the catholics, martinis) and magic. yes, magic. but then something really magical happened and after not speaking for twelve years, they decided they wanted to make a lot of money (oh yeah, and music too) so they reunited and now they’re back together and they play shows. uh, the end?

you know, it’s not to often a rock journalist (ahem, dramatist) stands aside and lets the band tell their own story. and now i know why. rock stars aren’t the most reliable characters and the truth is, they can’t really be trusted to recall history the way it was, instead they tell it how they remember it was, and half the time they were too drunk or tired from touring to remember much of anything, and the end result is a tangled mess of time lines and he said/she said’s.

at one point, frank black mentions his admiration for david lynch’s truly surrealistic ability to present ideas while refraining from explaining them. in this way too, i believe the band’s history is better off unknown. like everyone else, i love the pixies, but their story is just as boring as the story of most bands; a bunch of kids who grew up listening to everything from country to punk rock, formed a band even though they had no clue what they were doing, smoked pot, drank beers and jolt cola, and played music until people listened. you’ve heard the story a thousand times before. but never, to this day have you heard songs like "tame" and "break my body." so lets follow david lynch’s lead and let the songs speak for themselves. without any explanations whatsoever, that soft/loud dynamic, that screaming/sweet juxtaposition. that is the pixies.

breaking news: Helicopter crash-lands this morning less than a mile from Kenyon's house. Occupants survive. Unfortunately, Kenyon was at work and could not report from scene and take photos. Instead, settle for Newsday.