Another week, another playlist for the Breakfast of Champions radio show. Thursday, March 29th.
(8:00 - we go wild)
Smog- Wild Love
Great Lake Swimmers - I Saw You In The Wild
Memphis - Into The Wild
Bettie Serveert - Something So Wild
M83 - Be Wild (background music)
(8:15 - getting wilder)
The Judybats - Lullaby (Weren't We Wild)
Prefab Sprout - Wild Horses
Papas Fritas - Wild Life
The Beach Boys - Wild Love
The Moog Cookbook - Born To Be Wild
(8:30 - band of the week)
Naked Raygun - Roller Queen
Naked Raygun - Knock Me Down
Naked Raygun - Hips Swingin'
Mount Sims - Wild Love
(8:45 - wilding time)
The Move - Wild Tiger Woman
Ditch Croaker - Monkey Wild
Jeffrey Lee Pierce - Wildweed
Thee Headcoats - Loathsome and Wild
Thee Headcoatees - Wild Man
The Smiths - Oscillate Wildly
(9:00 - new music galore)
Maria Taylor - Irish Goodbye
LCD Soundsystem - New York, I Love You But You're Bringing Me Down
Glenn Jones - Freedom Raga (concert report music)
(9:20 - more new music for you & me)
Future Pilot AKA - Changes
Peggy Honeywell - Birthday Boy
The Innocence Mission - Over The Moon
The Avett Brothers - Pretty Girl From Chile
(9:40 - so much new music, so little time)
The Breakers DK - Tried So Hard
The Rosebuds - Hold On To This Coat
Ted Leo and the Pharmacists - The World Stops Turning
Welcome - This Minute
(9:55 - the closer)
!!! - A New Name
thanks for listening, or if you missed it check out WMBR's archive where it will be housed for a short 2 week period.
Thursday, March 29, 2007
Sunday, March 25, 2007
My apologies for not making my usual shift last Thursday, unexpected family duty intervened. Thanks to Sara from Hi-Fi Lo-Fi for ably filing in the slot. A bummer too, missing my Band of the Week shift!
To make it up I'll be the substitute host of Hi-Fi Lo-Fi this Tuesday from 6am to 8am, right before Ted's Breakfast of Champions show. Feel free to join in!
To make it up I'll be the substitute host of Hi-Fi Lo-Fi this Tuesday from 6am to 8am, right before Ted's Breakfast of Champions show. Feel free to join in!
Here's a mid-March update of some of the new releases being considered for the Breakfast of Champions Thursday.
Panda Bear - "I'm Not"
The leadoff track on this new Panda Bear full-length is about as dead-on as a Brian Wilson knockoff can get. This particular song is more glitchy but no less satisfying. On the production side the glistening sheen of this works much more for me than his Animal Collective stuff ... perhaps he should continue on the solo path.
Grant Lee Phillips - "Raise The Spirit"
Grant Lee Buffalo frontman with another solo effort, this one has a strong Marc Bolan feel filtered through his alt.country leanings. No real T. Rex moments, think about that band's predecessor and you'll get closer to the flavour of this particular effort. This song is about as dead-on as it gets on the record.
Jarvis Cocker - "Tonite"
Well, this solo effort is not up to Richard Hawley's high standards but still enjoyable in its own right. They both mine similar territory, moodier efforts with a look to the past rather than forging a new future. Jarvis sonically colors things a little brighter as you'd expect with some touches of dark humour here and there.
Helen Stellar - "Diane"
A band, not a woman. Thank the lord, as you'd hope someone with the surname Stellar would avoid naming their daughter Helen. Harkens back to early 90's shoegaze rock and does a reasonable job capturing the flavor. They're no Early Years mind you but a few tracks are blustery enough to blow some good vibes.
Menomena - "The Pelican"
These gents are usually good for one track per album, though this one comes across totally different that previous efforts. Instead of tight metronomic lockstep rock this one crashes and bangs like a drunkard with time changes and layer upon layer of vocals. Dramatic intensity is a plus.
Marnie Stern - "The Weight of a Rock"
The tape manipulation chorus takes the five simple words above (plus a handful more) and wraps them around each other - definitely the highlight of this song for me. Urgent spindly rock backing blasts through the tune in herky jerky sub 3 minute style.
Adult - "You Don't Worry Enough"
Some of the advance press promised a stylistic change on this Adult (oops, it's Adult.) release, but happily enough it's pretty much the same icy cold new wave dance rock with more emphasis on guitar and less on voice. In the end, its still very identifiably Adult with frozen synths and drum-machine beats driving the business.
Maria Taylor - "Irish Goodbye"
One half of the Azure Ray duo goes the Orenda Fink route (actually I think Maria's first came out before Orenda's but I digress) and offers this very satisfying solo release on Saddle Creek. Quality stuff all the way through, adds much more of a pop dance feel to the formula and sonically it reminds me of the TPS mix of "New Resolution" with some fantastic synthetic beats punctuated with jangly guitars and addictive vocal samples.
Joakim - "Lonely Hearts"
Overall this record is a bit of a fractured mess, hard to get a grip on its many stylistic shifts. I prefer the new wavey tracks of which this is one, a few other nuggets of lucidity pop through the cut and paste collage of electronic elements.
Sybarite - "Dot The Lines"
Another fine melding of the electronic and organic in this mostly instrumental release, perfect for concert report music. It served dutifully on 3/1/07. This one is punctuated with some vocals, but most bounce between happy and moody.
Kieran Hebden and Steve Reid - "Mirrors"
Speaking of background music, here's the concert report companion from 3/8/07. Call it a Four Tet solo project though there's probably more people involved here than on the primary identity. It's also much simpler than the last layer upon layer upon layer of the last Four Tet album. Which in my book means it's much more enjoyable.
The Twilight Sad - "I'm Taking The Train Home"
The extremely prominent Glasgow burr of the vocalist put me off this full-length a bit though in the end the grandeur of the musical execution prompted me to mark this one on the plus side of the ledger. This track made the grade for its elliptical lyrics and build and wane guitar attack.
Softlightes - "Untitled Duet #3"
Pretty much anything on Modular will get a mention on this blog as I find their selections almost always align with my sensibilities. This one's more scattershot in style than most, this particular tune gets closest to the elements that comprise the band's name, a piano driven country-esque duet with some pesky squalling in the background. The rest of the disk jumps around a bit.
Bang Gang - "Something Wrong"
This tune is rather aquatic sounding, using some submarine percussion with some menacing synths to communicate the idea that something is wrong. Based on the ep we received from them I wasn't expecting the balance of this disc to be more introspective and folky (in style if not execution) but it has some Viva Voce type moments.
Peggy Honeywell - "Birthday Boy"
Nu-folker covering perhaps my favorite Ween song of all time and doing it a great service. The original is heartwrenching in its honesty and this sparse execution brings the emotion to the forefront. My only complaint - it's so short!
Dead Heart Bloom - "Someday Soon Our Time Will Come"
Reserved this one from a mostly acoustic folk-country effort. Difficult to discern the differences between these rather reserved tune but this has some nice female backing and a solid lick at its core. The record is available free to download.
Bow Thayer - "The Way That It Swings"
The album is actually credited to "Bow Thayer with Levon Helm" ... I guess if you get a member of The Band to drum on your record the least you can do it put him above the fold. As you might guess this one's straight 70's country rock with some horns, not typical BoC fare but I worked it into the 3/15/07 show.
Jesse Malin - "Don't Let Them Take You Down"
The Ryan Adams protege continues his solo career with this sweet sounding disc, the production on both his efforts has been stellar. Joanie was hoping for more of a D-Generation vibe but this one hunts for what little space commerical rock records can find these days with a slight country vibe (aka Brooce). Spun on the 3/15/07 show.
Walker Kong - "Lonesome Eyes"
Really enjoyed the first record from this indie-pop group, subsequent efforts haven't quite found the same production effort. The awkward vocals weave in and out of this late 80's UK pop leaning tune. The build and layering of sonic elements is interesting and there's even a bit of Clash in there for the punkers.
Wilderness Pangs - "Roundabout Ways"
One of those art-in-the-garage type projects that has plenty of fragmented song ideas melded with passion (or is that liquor) but not much else. Still I liked some of the tone behind the rather muffled production and put this one to the side for further consideration. It seems on the verge of collapse from note #1 and predictably implodes before recovering for a quite coherent solo.
Land of Talk - "All My Friends"
Femme-fronted indie rock. Predictably my favourite song curses like a sailor in a cold shower limiting its airplay potential. I liked the reverb on the vocals and fuzzy guitar tone but it still has a very live first take feel regardless.
Panda Bear - "I'm Not"
The leadoff track on this new Panda Bear full-length is about as dead-on as a Brian Wilson knockoff can get. This particular song is more glitchy but no less satisfying. On the production side the glistening sheen of this works much more for me than his Animal Collective stuff ... perhaps he should continue on the solo path.
Grant Lee Phillips - "Raise The Spirit"
Grant Lee Buffalo frontman with another solo effort, this one has a strong Marc Bolan feel filtered through his alt.country leanings. No real T. Rex moments, think about that band's predecessor and you'll get closer to the flavour of this particular effort. This song is about as dead-on as it gets on the record.
Jarvis Cocker - "Tonite"
Well, this solo effort is not up to Richard Hawley's high standards but still enjoyable in its own right. They both mine similar territory, moodier efforts with a look to the past rather than forging a new future. Jarvis sonically colors things a little brighter as you'd expect with some touches of dark humour here and there.
Helen Stellar - "Diane"
A band, not a woman. Thank the lord, as you'd hope someone with the surname Stellar would avoid naming their daughter Helen. Harkens back to early 90's shoegaze rock and does a reasonable job capturing the flavor. They're no Early Years mind you but a few tracks are blustery enough to blow some good vibes.
Menomena - "The Pelican"
These gents are usually good for one track per album, though this one comes across totally different that previous efforts. Instead of tight metronomic lockstep rock this one crashes and bangs like a drunkard with time changes and layer upon layer of vocals. Dramatic intensity is a plus.
Marnie Stern - "The Weight of a Rock"
The tape manipulation chorus takes the five simple words above (plus a handful more) and wraps them around each other - definitely the highlight of this song for me. Urgent spindly rock backing blasts through the tune in herky jerky sub 3 minute style.
Adult - "You Don't Worry Enough"
Some of the advance press promised a stylistic change on this Adult (oops, it's Adult.) release, but happily enough it's pretty much the same icy cold new wave dance rock with more emphasis on guitar and less on voice. In the end, its still very identifiably Adult with frozen synths and drum-machine beats driving the business.
Maria Taylor - "Irish Goodbye"
One half of the Azure Ray duo goes the Orenda Fink route (actually I think Maria's first came out before Orenda's but I digress) and offers this very satisfying solo release on Saddle Creek. Quality stuff all the way through, adds much more of a pop dance feel to the formula and sonically it reminds me of the TPS mix of "New Resolution" with some fantastic synthetic beats punctuated with jangly guitars and addictive vocal samples.
Joakim - "Lonely Hearts"
Overall this record is a bit of a fractured mess, hard to get a grip on its many stylistic shifts. I prefer the new wavey tracks of which this is one, a few other nuggets of lucidity pop through the cut and paste collage of electronic elements.
Sybarite - "Dot The Lines"
Another fine melding of the electronic and organic in this mostly instrumental release, perfect for concert report music. It served dutifully on 3/1/07. This one is punctuated with some vocals, but most bounce between happy and moody.
Kieran Hebden and Steve Reid - "Mirrors"
Speaking of background music, here's the concert report companion from 3/8/07. Call it a Four Tet solo project though there's probably more people involved here than on the primary identity. It's also much simpler than the last layer upon layer upon layer of the last Four Tet album. Which in my book means it's much more enjoyable.
The Twilight Sad - "I'm Taking The Train Home"
The extremely prominent Glasgow burr of the vocalist put me off this full-length a bit though in the end the grandeur of the musical execution prompted me to mark this one on the plus side of the ledger. This track made the grade for its elliptical lyrics and build and wane guitar attack.
Softlightes - "Untitled Duet #3"
Pretty much anything on Modular will get a mention on this blog as I find their selections almost always align with my sensibilities. This one's more scattershot in style than most, this particular tune gets closest to the elements that comprise the band's name, a piano driven country-esque duet with some pesky squalling in the background. The rest of the disk jumps around a bit.
Bang Gang - "Something Wrong"
This tune is rather aquatic sounding, using some submarine percussion with some menacing synths to communicate the idea that something is wrong. Based on the ep we received from them I wasn't expecting the balance of this disc to be more introspective and folky (in style if not execution) but it has some Viva Voce type moments.
Peggy Honeywell - "Birthday Boy"
Nu-folker covering perhaps my favorite Ween song of all time and doing it a great service. The original is heartwrenching in its honesty and this sparse execution brings the emotion to the forefront. My only complaint - it's so short!
Dead Heart Bloom - "Someday Soon Our Time Will Come"
Reserved this one from a mostly acoustic folk-country effort. Difficult to discern the differences between these rather reserved tune but this has some nice female backing and a solid lick at its core. The record is available free to download.
Bow Thayer - "The Way That It Swings"
The album is actually credited to "Bow Thayer with Levon Helm" ... I guess if you get a member of The Band to drum on your record the least you can do it put him above the fold. As you might guess this one's straight 70's country rock with some horns, not typical BoC fare but I worked it into the 3/15/07 show.
Jesse Malin - "Don't Let Them Take You Down"
The Ryan Adams protege continues his solo career with this sweet sounding disc, the production on both his efforts has been stellar. Joanie was hoping for more of a D-Generation vibe but this one hunts for what little space commerical rock records can find these days with a slight country vibe (aka Brooce). Spun on the 3/15/07 show.
Walker Kong - "Lonesome Eyes"
Really enjoyed the first record from this indie-pop group, subsequent efforts haven't quite found the same production effort. The awkward vocals weave in and out of this late 80's UK pop leaning tune. The build and layering of sonic elements is interesting and there's even a bit of Clash in there for the punkers.
Wilderness Pangs - "Roundabout Ways"
One of those art-in-the-garage type projects that has plenty of fragmented song ideas melded with passion (or is that liquor) but not much else. Still I liked some of the tone behind the rather muffled production and put this one to the side for further consideration. It seems on the verge of collapse from note #1 and predictably implodes before recovering for a quite coherent solo.
Land of Talk - "All My Friends"
Femme-fronted indie rock. Predictably my favourite song curses like a sailor in a cold shower limiting its airplay potential. I liked the reverb on the vocals and fuzzy guitar tone but it still has a very live first take feel regardless.
Thursday, March 15, 2007
Hello, welcome to the Breakfast of Champions playlist for March 15, 2007
(8:00 - looking back while being told not to)
Boston - "Don't Look Back"
Gene Pitney - "Backstage (I'm Lonely)"
The Beautiful South - "Old Red Eyes Is Back"
King Loser - '76 Comeback (background music)
(8:15 - i want more back)
The San Francisco Seals - "Back Again"
Big Star - "Back of a Car"
The Clash - "Police on My Back"
The Housemartins - "We're Not Going Back"
Eleventh Dream Day - "History of Brokeback" (background music)
(8:30 - band of the week)
Sleater-Kinney - "Get Up"
Sleater-Kinney - "Leave You Behind"
Sleater-Kinney - "Funeral Song"
Savage Republic - "Walking Backwards"
(8:45 - back to back)
Throwing Muses - "Counting Backwards"
Kitty Vermont - "Back to Better Days"
Pale Saints - "Throwing Back the Apple"
Johan - "Back In School"
Jr. Walker + The All-Stars - "Cleo's Back" (background music)
(9:00 - start of the new music hour)
Rosie Thomas - "Much Farther To Go"
Mountaineer - "You Pay No Mind"
Nick Garrie - "Ink Pot Eyes"
Sterling - "Eyes" (concert report music)
(9:20 - mohr new music)
Seafood - "Between The Noise Pt. 2"
Audionom - "Spindlar"
The Delmontes - "So It's Not To Be"
Anagram - "Thrill of Separation"
(9:40 - new music continued)
Jesse Malin - "Don't Let Them Take You Down"
Barn Burning - "Flailing"
Bow Thayer - "The Way That It Swings"
(9:55 - closing it out)
Goldfrapp - "Lovely 2 C U (T. Raumschmiere Remix)"
Thanks for listening, or if you didn't catch up with us at WMBR's archives.
(8:00 - looking back while being told not to)
Boston - "Don't Look Back"
Gene Pitney - "Backstage (I'm Lonely)"
The Beautiful South - "Old Red Eyes Is Back"
King Loser - '76 Comeback (background music)
(8:15 - i want more back)
The San Francisco Seals - "Back Again"
Big Star - "Back of a Car"
The Clash - "Police on My Back"
The Housemartins - "We're Not Going Back"
Eleventh Dream Day - "History of Brokeback" (background music)
(8:30 - band of the week)
Sleater-Kinney - "Get Up"
Sleater-Kinney - "Leave You Behind"
Sleater-Kinney - "Funeral Song"
Savage Republic - "Walking Backwards"
(8:45 - back to back)
Throwing Muses - "Counting Backwards"
Kitty Vermont - "Back to Better Days"
Pale Saints - "Throwing Back the Apple"
Johan - "Back In School"
Jr. Walker + The All-Stars - "Cleo's Back" (background music)
(9:00 - start of the new music hour)
Rosie Thomas - "Much Farther To Go"
Mountaineer - "You Pay No Mind"
Nick Garrie - "Ink Pot Eyes"
Sterling - "Eyes" (concert report music)
(9:20 - mohr new music)
Seafood - "Between The Noise Pt. 2"
Audionom - "Spindlar"
The Delmontes - "So It's Not To Be"
Anagram - "Thrill of Separation"
(9:40 - new music continued)
Jesse Malin - "Don't Let Them Take You Down"
Barn Burning - "Flailing"
Bow Thayer - "The Way That It Swings"
(9:55 - closing it out)
Goldfrapp - "Lovely 2 C U (T. Raumschmiere Remix)"
Thanks for listening, or if you didn't catch up with us at WMBR's archives.
Sunday, March 11, 2007
Early March and the new CDs are still showing up in heaping batches down at the basement of the Walker Memorial Building. Here's some songs of note:
1. The Cinematics - "Ready Now"
Well they certainly get the bombast element of early 80's new wave rock right. They seem to be aiming for that big big Steve Lillywhite type production sound and hit mark for the most part. If only the songs were a bit better, still it sounds so immense I don't mind too much. Played on 3/8/07.
2. Trans Am - "Obscene Strategies"
Looks like they're solidly back in the electro dance-pop category with this release, or at least this song. A strong disco beat flavour to the normal Trans Am keyboard madness. Overall can't recommend too many from this album, but hey it's superior to T.A
3. The Delmontes - "So It's Not To Be"
LTM collection from this early 80's UK band with a very strong late 60's pop sensibility. This jumpy tune is most notable for its "Na Na Na" backing vocals which give a kaliedoscopic psych-pop feel to it's otherwise bubbly center.
4. The Charlottes - "We're Going Wrong"
Another collection, this from an early 90's band that morphs from Primitives to Lush to My Bloody Valentine stylings in the course of an overstuffed disc. Every song is quite simply stunning, so if you're an afficiando of the shoegazer vibe definitely seek it out.
5. Robert Gomez - "The Same Sad Song"
Expected it to be a bit grittier and mopier based on the title but this has a bit of 4AD glossy production which gives it a bit too much distance. Not exactly Sparklehorse levels of slickness here but it's a decent enough touchstone.
6. Barn Burning - "Flailing"
Western MA alt.country band goes the Nick Cave route on many of these songs, giving a slowed down guttural feel to these while still retaining some of their roots. This particular tune is the rocker centerpiece of the disc, an exception more than a rule. Hope to get to it soon on the show.
7. Arthur Dodge - "Ides of March"
Solo release hunts more for an Elvis Costello feel while still staying stripped down and true to his folk and country foundation. The result is a very strong and earnest pop record all the way through, had a tough time picking just one song. The topical nature of the title led me to play this on 3/8/07.
8. Papercuts - "Unavailable"
Free-flowing release isn't afraid to bare it's late 60's folk aspirations but wraps them in a flowery psych-influenced sheen of production. Their last CD had a few hits to my ears, this one seems to carry on the tradition of quality. Spun on 3/8/07.
9. Laurel Brauns - "Closed for the Season"
New local release for this female vocalist, mostly acoustic accompaniment with sparse arrangments but it's all very crisp and upfront. Some of the vocals are a bit too prominent for my tastes but several of them were quite beguiling. One of those releases that only Jeff Breeze and myself will play (well, maybe Sue Schardt as well).
10. Rosie Thomas - "Much Father To Go"
This particular song is a real stunner from the former Sub Pop acousti-pop singer, we'll characterize her as a female Damien Jurado. Overall I didn't think much of the album, the cover of REM's "The One I Love" is appreciated. But perhaps the rest will grow on my like this expressive tune with some lovely male backing vocals and very subtle but incredible strings. Quite the chorus, it will definitely get played - probably more than once.
11. Nick Garrie - "Ink Pot Eyes"
Two winners in a row, here's a late 60's orch-pop reissue that's quite tasty. This particular song is punctuated with that weepnig George Harrison-style guitar, but tinnier like a pop-country song of the era. The orch elements really kick in the chorus, which has a Bee-Gees mellow flavour without getting all falsettoish. Plenty of incredible touches in this one, like the drumbreak into the chorus.
12. Low - "Always Fade"
Their last album made my best-of list for 2005, this one likely will not. It does continue on the fuller-sounding theme of the previous release, but has a much starker and harsher sound. Can't say anything grabbed me beyond this song, perhaps one more near the end. Played on 3/8/07.
13. Prosser - "The Path to a Field with a View of the City"
A meandering indie-rock instrumental with a lazy build-and-release. Very Explosions in the Sky-like without the whole glistening production vibe. Can't recall if any of these had vocals, if they didn't it would be good concert report fodder.
14. Wolf & Cub - "Rozalia Bizarre"
Another indie-rock instrumental but much stronger that the offering above. Has that really storming Soundtrack of Our Lives vibe with layered elements including a couple of pleasantly odd guitar solos in there which almost had me thinking Hovercraft too. Thought this would tweak Lisa of JDDCE's sensibilities and it definitely did.
15. Air - "Mer Du Japon"
Not a huge Air fan myself, but I always find a cut or two on their releases. Same goes for this new one, has that retro late-60's/early-70's movie theme vibe with a little Ulrich Schnauss in there for good measure.
16. Cassette - "Allright, V.1"
Tough to pick one song from a Cassette release, not because they're all so good but more because they're all so short! The median song length is probably around 45 seconds on this re-issue, with songs bouncing from techno to new wave to straight ahead sung ditties. This is one of the latter. Good for filling in that odd extra minute of time. Name is pretty much google-proof.
17. Gruff Rhys - "Beacon in the Darkness"
Super Furry Animals lead singer offers a solo release that reminds me a bit of earlier SFA releases but without the fuzzy production. Don't expect any of the excessive orchrestal backing of the more recent SFA stuff, this is purely Kings of Convenience style retro country-folk with song very precisely produced backing. Sounds good, looks good, feels good, etc. Played a different song on 3/8/07 due to time constraints.
18. Illinois - "One on One"
The producer credit is what immediately drew me to this ep ... helmed by Eli Janney of Girls Against Boys. The same guy who gave Brainiac their distinctive sound. Well, this is no Brainiac redux but still earns points for a great chorus and some plaintive keyboards. The kind of release that can cross BoC and LRC boundaries rather cleanly.
19. Goldfrapp - "Lovely 2 C U (T. Raumschmiere Mix)"
Goldfrapp strafed the station with two remix discs a few weeks ago, so far I think only Sans Serif has taken the bait. I will soon follow with this menacing take on everyone's favorite glam-pop revistionist (sorry, Destroyer). The keyboards are so gritty that it sounds as if it could have been done by Campaign for Real Time. Definite closer material next week.
20. Sia - "Pictures"
The only studio track on Sia's new live release so I grabbed it. Doesn't have as much of a tropical vibe as the last album, instead going for a more modern production feel. Way too much faux-moaning and faux-expression.
21. Songs of Green Pheasant - "Pink By White"
So laid back it reminds me of the Alan Parsons Project's "Eye in the Sky." Unfortunately the vocals are not as distinctive and there's no real build.
1. The Cinematics - "Ready Now"
Well they certainly get the bombast element of early 80's new wave rock right. They seem to be aiming for that big big Steve Lillywhite type production sound and hit mark for the most part. If only the songs were a bit better, still it sounds so immense I don't mind too much. Played on 3/8/07.
2. Trans Am - "Obscene Strategies"
Looks like they're solidly back in the electro dance-pop category with this release, or at least this song. A strong disco beat flavour to the normal Trans Am keyboard madness. Overall can't recommend too many from this album, but hey it's superior to T.A
3. The Delmontes - "So It's Not To Be"
LTM collection from this early 80's UK band with a very strong late 60's pop sensibility. This jumpy tune is most notable for its "Na Na Na" backing vocals which give a kaliedoscopic psych-pop feel to it's otherwise bubbly center.
4. The Charlottes - "We're Going Wrong"
Another collection, this from an early 90's band that morphs from Primitives to Lush to My Bloody Valentine stylings in the course of an overstuffed disc. Every song is quite simply stunning, so if you're an afficiando of the shoegazer vibe definitely seek it out.
5. Robert Gomez - "The Same Sad Song"
Expected it to be a bit grittier and mopier based on the title but this has a bit of 4AD glossy production which gives it a bit too much distance. Not exactly Sparklehorse levels of slickness here but it's a decent enough touchstone.
6. Barn Burning - "Flailing"
Western MA alt.country band goes the Nick Cave route on many of these songs, giving a slowed down guttural feel to these while still retaining some of their roots. This particular tune is the rocker centerpiece of the disc, an exception more than a rule. Hope to get to it soon on the show.
7. Arthur Dodge - "Ides of March"
Solo release hunts more for an Elvis Costello feel while still staying stripped down and true to his folk and country foundation. The result is a very strong and earnest pop record all the way through, had a tough time picking just one song. The topical nature of the title led me to play this on 3/8/07.
8. Papercuts - "Unavailable"
Free-flowing release isn't afraid to bare it's late 60's folk aspirations but wraps them in a flowery psych-influenced sheen of production. Their last CD had a few hits to my ears, this one seems to carry on the tradition of quality. Spun on 3/8/07.
9. Laurel Brauns - "Closed for the Season"
New local release for this female vocalist, mostly acoustic accompaniment with sparse arrangments but it's all very crisp and upfront. Some of the vocals are a bit too prominent for my tastes but several of them were quite beguiling. One of those releases that only Jeff Breeze and myself will play (well, maybe Sue Schardt as well).
10. Rosie Thomas - "Much Father To Go"
This particular song is a real stunner from the former Sub Pop acousti-pop singer, we'll characterize her as a female Damien Jurado. Overall I didn't think much of the album, the cover of REM's "The One I Love" is appreciated. But perhaps the rest will grow on my like this expressive tune with some lovely male backing vocals and very subtle but incredible strings. Quite the chorus, it will definitely get played - probably more than once.
11. Nick Garrie - "Ink Pot Eyes"
Two winners in a row, here's a late 60's orch-pop reissue that's quite tasty. This particular song is punctuated with that weepnig George Harrison-style guitar, but tinnier like a pop-country song of the era. The orch elements really kick in the chorus, which has a Bee-Gees mellow flavour without getting all falsettoish. Plenty of incredible touches in this one, like the drumbreak into the chorus.
12. Low - "Always Fade"
Their last album made my best-of list for 2005, this one likely will not. It does continue on the fuller-sounding theme of the previous release, but has a much starker and harsher sound. Can't say anything grabbed me beyond this song, perhaps one more near the end. Played on 3/8/07.
13. Prosser - "The Path to a Field with a View of the City"
A meandering indie-rock instrumental with a lazy build-and-release. Very Explosions in the Sky-like without the whole glistening production vibe. Can't recall if any of these had vocals, if they didn't it would be good concert report fodder.
14. Wolf & Cub - "Rozalia Bizarre"
Another indie-rock instrumental but much stronger that the offering above. Has that really storming Soundtrack of Our Lives vibe with layered elements including a couple of pleasantly odd guitar solos in there which almost had me thinking Hovercraft too. Thought this would tweak Lisa of JDDCE's sensibilities and it definitely did.
15. Air - "Mer Du Japon"
Not a huge Air fan myself, but I always find a cut or two on their releases. Same goes for this new one, has that retro late-60's/early-70's movie theme vibe with a little Ulrich Schnauss in there for good measure.
16. Cassette - "Allright, V.1"
Tough to pick one song from a Cassette release, not because they're all so good but more because they're all so short! The median song length is probably around 45 seconds on this re-issue, with songs bouncing from techno to new wave to straight ahead sung ditties. This is one of the latter. Good for filling in that odd extra minute of time. Name is pretty much google-proof.
17. Gruff Rhys - "Beacon in the Darkness"
Super Furry Animals lead singer offers a solo release that reminds me a bit of earlier SFA releases but without the fuzzy production. Don't expect any of the excessive orchrestal backing of the more recent SFA stuff, this is purely Kings of Convenience style retro country-folk with song very precisely produced backing. Sounds good, looks good, feels good, etc. Played a different song on 3/8/07 due to time constraints.
18. Illinois - "One on One"
The producer credit is what immediately drew me to this ep ... helmed by Eli Janney of Girls Against Boys. The same guy who gave Brainiac their distinctive sound. Well, this is no Brainiac redux but still earns points for a great chorus and some plaintive keyboards. The kind of release that can cross BoC and LRC boundaries rather cleanly.
19. Goldfrapp - "Lovely 2 C U (T. Raumschmiere Mix)"
Goldfrapp strafed the station with two remix discs a few weeks ago, so far I think only Sans Serif has taken the bait. I will soon follow with this menacing take on everyone's favorite glam-pop revistionist (sorry, Destroyer). The keyboards are so gritty that it sounds as if it could have been done by Campaign for Real Time. Definite closer material next week.
20. Sia - "Pictures"
The only studio track on Sia's new live release so I grabbed it. Doesn't have as much of a tropical vibe as the last album, instead going for a more modern production feel. Way too much faux-moaning and faux-expression.
21. Songs of Green Pheasant - "Pink By White"
So laid back it reminds me of the Alan Parsons Project's "Eye in the Sky." Unfortunately the vocals are not as distinctive and there's no real build.
Thursday, March 08, 2007
Playlist for Breakfast of Champions Thursday circa March 8th, 2007
It's International Women's Day!
(8:00 - a few wishes for you)
Ivy - "Wish It All Away"
Dusty Springfield - "I Wish I'd Never Loved You"
Saturday Looks Good To Me - "I Wish I Could Cry"
Of Montreal - "Tim I Wish You Were Born A Girl"
Alastair Galbraith - "Wish" (background music)
(8:15 - more wishes, I hopes)
Jeanette Katt - "Wish You Were Mine"
Anna Waronker - "I Wish You Well"
My Bloody Valentine - "Blown a Wish"
XTC - "You're The Wish You Are I Had"
Sunburned Hand of the Man - "Serpent's Wish" (background music)
(8:30 - band of the week time)
Trans Am - "Enforcer"
Trans Am - "Now You Die, Thriddle Fool"
Trans Am - "Remote Control"
Ratatat - "Wildcat (background music)
(8:45 - final wishes)
The Names - "I Wish I Could Speak Your Language"
Talking Heads - "I Wish You Wouldn't Say That"
The Boo Radleys - "Wish I Was Skinny"
The Sprites - "Wish I Sang a Little Better"
Carney/Hild/Kramer - "Wish"
The Black Sea - "I Wish There Was a Pill" (background music)
(9:00 - do we have some new music for you)
The Innocence Mission - "A Wave Is Rolling"
The Bird and the Bee - "I Hate Camera"
Kieran Hebden & Steve Reid - "Mirrors" (background music)
(9:20 - continuation of the new music hour)
The Cinematics - "Ready Now"
The Triffids - "Kathy Knows"
Arthur Dodge - "Ides of March"
Papercuts - "Unavaliable"
(9:40 - more sorta new music for you)
Low - "Always Fade"
Seagull Screaming Kiss Her Kiss Her - "Evolution"
Kristoffer Ragnstam - "Too Close to the Curb"
Albert Hammond Jr. - "In Transit"
Gruff Rhys - "Candylion"
(9:55 - the big closing number)
John Denver - "Baby, You Look Good To Me Tonight"
thanks for listening, or if you missed it just check WMBR's archives.
It's International Women's Day!
(8:00 - a few wishes for you)
Ivy - "Wish It All Away"
Dusty Springfield - "I Wish I'd Never Loved You"
Saturday Looks Good To Me - "I Wish I Could Cry"
Of Montreal - "Tim I Wish You Were Born A Girl"
Alastair Galbraith - "Wish" (background music)
(8:15 - more wishes, I hopes)
Jeanette Katt - "Wish You Were Mine"
Anna Waronker - "I Wish You Well"
My Bloody Valentine - "Blown a Wish"
XTC - "You're The Wish You Are I Had"
Sunburned Hand of the Man - "Serpent's Wish" (background music)
(8:30 - band of the week time)
Trans Am - "Enforcer"
Trans Am - "Now You Die, Thriddle Fool"
Trans Am - "Remote Control"
Ratatat - "Wildcat (background music)
(8:45 - final wishes)
The Names - "I Wish I Could Speak Your Language"
Talking Heads - "I Wish You Wouldn't Say That"
The Boo Radleys - "Wish I Was Skinny"
The Sprites - "Wish I Sang a Little Better"
Carney/Hild/Kramer - "Wish"
The Black Sea - "I Wish There Was a Pill" (background music)
(9:00 - do we have some new music for you)
The Innocence Mission - "A Wave Is Rolling"
The Bird and the Bee - "I Hate Camera"
Kieran Hebden & Steve Reid - "Mirrors" (background music)
(9:20 - continuation of the new music hour)
The Cinematics - "Ready Now"
The Triffids - "Kathy Knows"
Arthur Dodge - "Ides of March"
Papercuts - "Unavaliable"
(9:40 - more sorta new music for you)
Low - "Always Fade"
Seagull Screaming Kiss Her Kiss Her - "Evolution"
Kristoffer Ragnstam - "Too Close to the Curb"
Albert Hammond Jr. - "In Transit"
Gruff Rhys - "Candylion"
(9:55 - the big closing number)
John Denver - "Baby, You Look Good To Me Tonight"
thanks for listening, or if you missed it just check WMBR's archives.
Sunday, March 04, 2007
Catching up on the releases with this exploration of the late February entries into WMBR's new rack. As you'll see below there's quite a bit I want to play, time is a big constraint when the new release get this crowded together.
1. Cortney Tidwell - "La La"
She's got some buzz behind her on the UK front but I've heard very little about here in the US. Tennessee girl who takes the new-folk and adds just a tinge of shoegazer reverb, enough to scent it with some Cocteau Twins vibe but not enough to call it a swipe by any means. Several strong tunes on this debut release, played this song on 3/1/07.
2. Bobby Conn - "Mr. Lucky"
Not as retro-funk or glam as previous releases, also nowhere near as strange. His non-seq's were a highlight of other albums, this one seems to step outside the studio with a much simpler formula. Played a much shorter song on 3/1/07 but won't be hitting it again.
3. The One AM Radio - "Mercury"
Loved the previous two full-lengths, this one for the more part eschews some of the delicate beauty that can be found there for a fuller sound with more propulsive bass/drum action. Must say I prefer the old school feedback but will stick with it due to a strong karma reserve. Played on 2/22/07.
4. Secret Mommy - "Diciduism"
Another schizophrenic electronic mess, this is the most coherent song of the bunch. Thought I might be able to do something with it, who knows. Meant for those kids who find time signatures boring.
5. Boo Hoo - "Disappearer"
Strong Canadian indie rock, very propulsive with great energy and pace. Has that Built to Spill feel to it with the chiming guitars and raspy vocals.
6. The Wombats - "Moving to New York"
A side of a single they sent to us, interesting enough to reserve for future reference. Would prefer to hear the whole album first. Going for that commercial post-punk rock sound, upbeat and fiery.
7. The Arcade Fire - "(Antichrist Television Blues)"
Extremely inconsistent effort from these guys with very poor sequencing as well, takes a good long while to get started and the songs have a difficult time coalescing beyond some individual charms. Overall a big disappointment as I am quite enamored of the first full-length. Still several gems here, played this on 3/1/07.
8. Seafood - "Between The Noise Pt. 2"
Has that major-label big big sound but I must admit it works. While certainly not as dark as Interpol there are some links here in the bulky guitar sound and thick basslines.
9. Lemurs - "Breaking You Down"
Pretty much anything that jumps on the dark 80's revivalist bandwagon gets at least a reserve from me, which explains the presence on this track on here. Has that authentically awkward vocal sound and after initially brushing it with a by-the-numbers label I must admit the attraction is growing.
10. Palomar - "Our Haunt"
Nowhere near as simple or catchy as their previous pure indie-pop releases, this adds a huge dollop of rock production which IMO sacrifices much of the pleasure of Palomar. Played on 3/1/07 but don't think this relationship will progress beyond that.
11. Seagulls Screaming Kiss Her Kiss Her - "Evolution"
The XTC reference gets this Japanese band goodwill points off the bat. Date check reveals this is a 2001 album, which either means it's a station purchase or much-delayed US release. While I didn't find it too interesting as a whole, this leadoff track is stellar sunshiney female fronted pop that doesn't easily reveal its roots. Deserves a spin.
12. Kristoffer Ragnstam - "Too Close To The Curb"
Another Swedish effort with a pop feel but the vocals don't have that signature nasal quality and the music is actually a brawnier version of that prototypical power pop. Nice guitar lick, definitely worth a play.
13. Don Lennon - "Our Bodies"
He's back, our local troubador with the wry observances on life turns in a smash hit with this observant song about our obsession with the physical form. Overall the album seems rather weak though I bet once purchased it will reveal many charms. Played on 3/1/07, deserves multiple spins on this song alone.
14. Mountaineer - "You Pay No Mind"
Looks like we were several months late to this party as this late-06 release got lost in the back of the Music Director's cabinet. Too bad, it's a fleshier folk-pop upgrade not unlike Elliott Smith with less of the awkwardness (and consequently less of the charm). Still should run this one at least once.
15. Let's Go Sailing - "Better Off"
My father had a sailboat during my youth so the band name certainly drew some positive attention. And the very comely lead singer certainly doesn't hurt either. So I'm willing to overlook any vocal flaws and put this one firmly in the charming indie-pop camp. Played it 3/1/07. Wonder if they're from Yardley PA?
16. Life In Sodom - "The New Year"
EP from this goth-rock band, complete with the doomy male vocals. A strong Bats in the Belfry candidate, reserved here just in case I ever get called to do a fill-in on that program.
17. Explosions in the Sky - "Welcome, Ghosts"
They basically deliver the goods on the new album, there are several sparkly tunes worthy of inclusion in the canon but a few dry ones as well. Background music fodder.
18. Sea.Mine - "Cascadia"
Vocals here remind me quite a bit of the Atlanta band Five.Eight, quite a bit of range. Musically there's some similarity as well though they don't quite have the tension. Still, quite likable.
19. The Dexateens - "Fyffe"
Roots rock in the rockinist flannel shirt way, if Greg Reibman still had a show this record would be getting multiple spins. As it is I'm sure Joan on Three Ring Circus will make sure it receives plenty of airtime. Plenty of fun, spun it on 2/22/07.
1. Cortney Tidwell - "La La"
She's got some buzz behind her on the UK front but I've heard very little about here in the US. Tennessee girl who takes the new-folk and adds just a tinge of shoegazer reverb, enough to scent it with some Cocteau Twins vibe but not enough to call it a swipe by any means. Several strong tunes on this debut release, played this song on 3/1/07.
2. Bobby Conn - "Mr. Lucky"
Not as retro-funk or glam as previous releases, also nowhere near as strange. His non-seq's were a highlight of other albums, this one seems to step outside the studio with a much simpler formula. Played a much shorter song on 3/1/07 but won't be hitting it again.
3. The One AM Radio - "Mercury"
Loved the previous two full-lengths, this one for the more part eschews some of the delicate beauty that can be found there for a fuller sound with more propulsive bass/drum action. Must say I prefer the old school feedback but will stick with it due to a strong karma reserve. Played on 2/22/07.
4. Secret Mommy - "Diciduism"
Another schizophrenic electronic mess, this is the most coherent song of the bunch. Thought I might be able to do something with it, who knows. Meant for those kids who find time signatures boring.
5. Boo Hoo - "Disappearer"
Strong Canadian indie rock, very propulsive with great energy and pace. Has that Built to Spill feel to it with the chiming guitars and raspy vocals.
6. The Wombats - "Moving to New York"
A side of a single they sent to us, interesting enough to reserve for future reference. Would prefer to hear the whole album first. Going for that commercial post-punk rock sound, upbeat and fiery.
7. The Arcade Fire - "(Antichrist Television Blues)"
Extremely inconsistent effort from these guys with very poor sequencing as well, takes a good long while to get started and the songs have a difficult time coalescing beyond some individual charms. Overall a big disappointment as I am quite enamored of the first full-length. Still several gems here, played this on 3/1/07.
8. Seafood - "Between The Noise Pt. 2"
Has that major-label big big sound but I must admit it works. While certainly not as dark as Interpol there are some links here in the bulky guitar sound and thick basslines.
9. Lemurs - "Breaking You Down"
Pretty much anything that jumps on the dark 80's revivalist bandwagon gets at least a reserve from me, which explains the presence on this track on here. Has that authentically awkward vocal sound and after initially brushing it with a by-the-numbers label I must admit the attraction is growing.
10. Palomar - "Our Haunt"
Nowhere near as simple or catchy as their previous pure indie-pop releases, this adds a huge dollop of rock production which IMO sacrifices much of the pleasure of Palomar. Played on 3/1/07 but don't think this relationship will progress beyond that.
11. Seagulls Screaming Kiss Her Kiss Her - "Evolution"
The XTC reference gets this Japanese band goodwill points off the bat. Date check reveals this is a 2001 album, which either means it's a station purchase or much-delayed US release. While I didn't find it too interesting as a whole, this leadoff track is stellar sunshiney female fronted pop that doesn't easily reveal its roots. Deserves a spin.
12. Kristoffer Ragnstam - "Too Close To The Curb"
Another Swedish effort with a pop feel but the vocals don't have that signature nasal quality and the music is actually a brawnier version of that prototypical power pop. Nice guitar lick, definitely worth a play.
13. Don Lennon - "Our Bodies"
He's back, our local troubador with the wry observances on life turns in a smash hit with this observant song about our obsession with the physical form. Overall the album seems rather weak though I bet once purchased it will reveal many charms. Played on 3/1/07, deserves multiple spins on this song alone.
14. Mountaineer - "You Pay No Mind"
Looks like we were several months late to this party as this late-06 release got lost in the back of the Music Director's cabinet. Too bad, it's a fleshier folk-pop upgrade not unlike Elliott Smith with less of the awkwardness (and consequently less of the charm). Still should run this one at least once.
15. Let's Go Sailing - "Better Off"
My father had a sailboat during my youth so the band name certainly drew some positive attention. And the very comely lead singer certainly doesn't hurt either. So I'm willing to overlook any vocal flaws and put this one firmly in the charming indie-pop camp. Played it 3/1/07. Wonder if they're from Yardley PA?
16. Life In Sodom - "The New Year"
EP from this goth-rock band, complete with the doomy male vocals. A strong Bats in the Belfry candidate, reserved here just in case I ever get called to do a fill-in on that program.
17. Explosions in the Sky - "Welcome, Ghosts"
They basically deliver the goods on the new album, there are several sparkly tunes worthy of inclusion in the canon but a few dry ones as well. Background music fodder.
18. Sea.Mine - "Cascadia"
Vocals here remind me quite a bit of the Atlanta band Five.Eight, quite a bit of range. Musically there's some similarity as well though they don't quite have the tension. Still, quite likable.
19. The Dexateens - "Fyffe"
Roots rock in the rockinist flannel shirt way, if Greg Reibman still had a show this record would be getting multiple spins. As it is I'm sure Joan on Three Ring Circus will make sure it receives plenty of airtime. Plenty of fun, spun it on 2/22/07.
Late January through early April are the busiest months for new releases here at college radio as labels try to capitalize on the attention of the college students ... I have almost three updates worth of stuff here to mention! This compilation is officially mid-February
1. Wild Carnation - "The Road To Bielefield"
Characterized as a Feelies offshoot it's really a Speed the Plough offshoot as all the members here have a hand in that band as well. Very stong 2nd record from them with all the jangly goodness you'd expend in some extended length songs ... tough to find a sub 5 minute hit! Played a different song 2/22/07 due to time constraints.
2. Dalminjo - "There Is A Light That Never Goes Out"
Lovely cover of the Smiths tune takes a chilled-out beats approach with a heavily reverbed female lead singer. Norweigan gentleman uses a passel of guest vocals to add some life to his downbeat beats. Played 2/22/07 as a closer.
3. The High Llamas - "Winter's Day"
After Hawaii and Gideon Gaye I haven't really been enamored by anything coming out under the High Llamas moniker, this included. This tune has very little going for it lyrically though it sounds pretty enough, which got it aired on 2/22/07.
4. My Teenage Stride - "Heartless & Cruel"
Trying to mix that Johnny Marr jangle with flatter post-punk vocals for a melding of styles long gone by ... we'll see if it makes it to the air. Tries too hard but does achieve some sense of authenticity.
5. The Secret Ink - "Boomerang"
Really liked the strings from this local band's first release and the art direction too. The female vocals try hard but really shouldn't be so front and center as they don't carry the song. Played on 2/15/07 (the Secret show, natch).
6. Albert Hammond Jr. - "In Transit" Better than the last Strokes album by a mile, this solo release has more of a pop sensibility and offers a few gems worth investigation. Played a different song on 2/22/07 but this one is very worthy as well. Big fan of dad too, "Free Electric band and all that.
7. Youth Group - "Forever Young"
Kept this Alphaville cover for future reference, smells very O.C. Won't be played anytime soon unless it's a kitsch cover show.
8. Tanakh - "Where Our Gardens Grow"
Psychedelic folk revisionists had some sparklers on previous releases but the new one is just too unfocused for me. I reserved this to give it a second chance but it's still not catching.
9. Alasdair Roberts - The Old Men of the Shells
Sounds just as 60's British folk as he always does, with that sweetly lilting voice. It's been a few albums since I really found more than one song per that I liked. Certainly has a chance of getting played but the song length hurts it.
10. BARR - "Half of Two Times Two (Newer Version)"
Wisely ditched the attempts at rapping and has gone to a spoken word style with a certain poetic flair. Works much better with my sensibilities and the improved backing (in other words, less freak experiments) helps as well. Spun on 3/1/07.
11. The Triffids - "Kathy Knows"
The re-issues on Domino keep flowing in, this is from their first one. Admittedly I'm unfamiliar with this record, it has a much rougher feel to it. Quite a bit more punch to the vocals, sparser sound with more than a bit of Nick Cave like menace to it. Usually I don't play re-issues but might work this in, really I'm waiting for the Calenture set to hit the shelves.
12. Mouthful of Bees - "Old Gold" Some definite charm to this indie rock release, the buried vocals provide a sense of warbly nausea and the simple keyboards are affecting but there's plenty of cacophony behind it to earn a spin on 2/22/07.
13. M. Ward - "To Go Home"
Leadoff and title track on his new ep with more production and pop style than I've ever heard from him before. While atypical it's also quite enjoyable as I often have difficulty slogging through his more turgid stuff.
14. Apostle of Hustle - "Justine, Beckoning"
Canadians have never really impressed me before with their earnest brand of pop but several flowed well enough here to earn a try. Still haven't made up my mind yet.
15. Aqueduct - "Keep It Together" Glammy confection that didn't hit me at first but has really impressed after multiple spins. Like a friendlier Destroyer, the punchy vocals and strong keyboard riffs really keep this one rolling. Used as a closer on 2/15/07 - will hopefully play it again.
16. Anagram - "If I Was A Scientist"
Doing the shoegazer rock thing with female vocals ... think there might have been a male lead on other songs. It's the vocals that are actually holding me back here. Bury them more in the mix and I might go for it Swervedriver-like, but they're keeping them in that Darling Buds mid-range which bothers me. Still I should give this a shot at least once.
17. Lumantic - "Go Fish"
Another shoegazer pop offering that I wasn't very intrigued by but reserved this song to give it a shot. Has that 1993 commercial sheen to it with some reasonably pleasant female vocals but the songs tend to meander on a bit. In fairness it has jelled since my initial impression, but competition is fierce this time of the year! Can't find a webpage, maybe I spelled the band name incorrectly.
18. Bikeride - "Your Lips and You Trouble"
Not too enamored with the album overall, but this song is a fantastic kitchen sink pastiche of 60's and 70's musical styles with sunshiney vocals and retro Cornershop-ish beats with plenty of orchestral stabs. Played 2/22/07.
19. This Is My Fist - "I'm Not Even Trying"
Femme fronted fuzzy pop-punk that was fun enough to reserve a song, perhaps for a possible future Late Risers' Club fill-in. AM Stereo watch out!
1. Wild Carnation - "The Road To Bielefield"
Characterized as a Feelies offshoot it's really a Speed the Plough offshoot as all the members here have a hand in that band as well. Very stong 2nd record from them with all the jangly goodness you'd expend in some extended length songs ... tough to find a sub 5 minute hit! Played a different song 2/22/07 due to time constraints.
2. Dalminjo - "There Is A Light That Never Goes Out"
Lovely cover of the Smiths tune takes a chilled-out beats approach with a heavily reverbed female lead singer. Norweigan gentleman uses a passel of guest vocals to add some life to his downbeat beats. Played 2/22/07 as a closer.
3. The High Llamas - "Winter's Day"
After Hawaii and Gideon Gaye I haven't really been enamored by anything coming out under the High Llamas moniker, this included. This tune has very little going for it lyrically though it sounds pretty enough, which got it aired on 2/22/07.
4. My Teenage Stride - "Heartless & Cruel"
Trying to mix that Johnny Marr jangle with flatter post-punk vocals for a melding of styles long gone by ... we'll see if it makes it to the air. Tries too hard but does achieve some sense of authenticity.
5. The Secret Ink - "Boomerang"
Really liked the strings from this local band's first release and the art direction too. The female vocals try hard but really shouldn't be so front and center as they don't carry the song. Played on 2/15/07 (the Secret show, natch).
6. Albert Hammond Jr. - "In Transit" Better than the last Strokes album by a mile, this solo release has more of a pop sensibility and offers a few gems worth investigation. Played a different song on 2/22/07 but this one is very worthy as well. Big fan of dad too, "Free Electric band and all that.
7. Youth Group - "Forever Young"
Kept this Alphaville cover for future reference, smells very O.C. Won't be played anytime soon unless it's a kitsch cover show.
8. Tanakh - "Where Our Gardens Grow"
Psychedelic folk revisionists had some sparklers on previous releases but the new one is just too unfocused for me. I reserved this to give it a second chance but it's still not catching.
9. Alasdair Roberts - The Old Men of the Shells
Sounds just as 60's British folk as he always does, with that sweetly lilting voice. It's been a few albums since I really found more than one song per that I liked. Certainly has a chance of getting played but the song length hurts it.
10. BARR - "Half of Two Times Two (Newer Version)"
Wisely ditched the attempts at rapping and has gone to a spoken word style with a certain poetic flair. Works much better with my sensibilities and the improved backing (in other words, less freak experiments) helps as well. Spun on 3/1/07.
11. The Triffids - "Kathy Knows"
The re-issues on Domino keep flowing in, this is from their first one. Admittedly I'm unfamiliar with this record, it has a much rougher feel to it. Quite a bit more punch to the vocals, sparser sound with more than a bit of Nick Cave like menace to it. Usually I don't play re-issues but might work this in, really I'm waiting for the Calenture set to hit the shelves.
12. Mouthful of Bees - "Old Gold" Some definite charm to this indie rock release, the buried vocals provide a sense of warbly nausea and the simple keyboards are affecting but there's plenty of cacophony behind it to earn a spin on 2/22/07.
13. M. Ward - "To Go Home"
Leadoff and title track on his new ep with more production and pop style than I've ever heard from him before. While atypical it's also quite enjoyable as I often have difficulty slogging through his more turgid stuff.
14. Apostle of Hustle - "Justine, Beckoning"
Canadians have never really impressed me before with their earnest brand of pop but several flowed well enough here to earn a try. Still haven't made up my mind yet.
15. Aqueduct - "Keep It Together" Glammy confection that didn't hit me at first but has really impressed after multiple spins. Like a friendlier Destroyer, the punchy vocals and strong keyboard riffs really keep this one rolling. Used as a closer on 2/15/07 - will hopefully play it again.
16. Anagram - "If I Was A Scientist"
Doing the shoegazer rock thing with female vocals ... think there might have been a male lead on other songs. It's the vocals that are actually holding me back here. Bury them more in the mix and I might go for it Swervedriver-like, but they're keeping them in that Darling Buds mid-range which bothers me. Still I should give this a shot at least once.
17. Lumantic - "Go Fish"
Another shoegazer pop offering that I wasn't very intrigued by but reserved this song to give it a shot. Has that 1993 commercial sheen to it with some reasonably pleasant female vocals but the songs tend to meander on a bit. In fairness it has jelled since my initial impression, but competition is fierce this time of the year! Can't find a webpage, maybe I spelled the band name incorrectly.
18. Bikeride - "Your Lips and You Trouble"
Not too enamored with the album overall, but this song is a fantastic kitchen sink pastiche of 60's and 70's musical styles with sunshiney vocals and retro Cornershop-ish beats with plenty of orchestral stabs. Played 2/22/07.
19. This Is My Fist - "I'm Not Even Trying"
Femme fronted fuzzy pop-punk that was fun enough to reserve a song, perhaps for a possible future Late Risers' Club fill-in. AM Stereo watch out!
Thursday, March 01, 2007
Playlist for Breakfast of Champions on Thursday, March 1st 2007
(8:00 - wish I was dead)
Ian North - "My Girlfriend's Dead"
Altered Images - "Dead Pop Stars"
Detention - "Dead Rock & Rollers"
Drop Nineteens - "The Dead"
King Cobb Steelie - "Deadbeat" (background music)
(8:15 - more dead songs)
Joe Henry - "Dead To The World"
American Music Club - "The Dead Part of You"
Sleeper - "Ha Ha You're Dead"
The Autuers - "Dead Sea Navigators"
Maurice Ravel - "Pavane for a Dead Princess"
(8:30 - band of the week)
Portastatic - "Running Water"
Portastatic - "Baby"
Portastatic - "Autumn Got Dark"
Broadcast - "Dead The Long Year" (background music)
(8:45 - left for dead)
Depth Charge - "Dead By Dawn"
New Musik - "Dead Fish (Don't Swim Home)"
Brilliant Corners - "She's Dead"
Add N to (X) - "The Regent Is Dead" (background music)
(9:00 - time for an hour of new music)
Cortney Tidwell - "LaLa"
Let's Go Sailing - "Better Off"
Palomar - "Our Haunt"
Sybarite - "Dot The Lines" (concert report music)
(9:20 - more new music)
Nurse & Soldier - "Bought Up Too Soon"
The Brothers Martin - "Get The Money"
Arcade Fire - "(antichrist television blues)"
Don Lennon - "Our Bodies"
(9:40 - lotsa new music)
BARR - "Half of Two Times Two (Newer Version)"
Bobby Conn - "Love Let Me Down"
The Caution Curves - "Christmas"
Peter Bjorn & John - "Roll The Credits"
(9:55 - the appropriate conclusion)
The Apples In Stereo - "Same Old Drag/Joanie Don't U Worry"
if you missed the show you still have 2 weeks to catch it on the archives!
(8:00 - wish I was dead)
Ian North - "My Girlfriend's Dead"
Altered Images - "Dead Pop Stars"
Detention - "Dead Rock & Rollers"
Drop Nineteens - "The Dead"
King Cobb Steelie - "Deadbeat" (background music)
(8:15 - more dead songs)
Joe Henry - "Dead To The World"
American Music Club - "The Dead Part of You"
Sleeper - "Ha Ha You're Dead"
The Autuers - "Dead Sea Navigators"
Maurice Ravel - "Pavane for a Dead Princess"
(8:30 - band of the week)
Portastatic - "Running Water"
Portastatic - "Baby"
Portastatic - "Autumn Got Dark"
Broadcast - "Dead The Long Year" (background music)
(8:45 - left for dead)
Depth Charge - "Dead By Dawn"
New Musik - "Dead Fish (Don't Swim Home)"
Brilliant Corners - "She's Dead"
Add N to (X) - "The Regent Is Dead" (background music)
(9:00 - time for an hour of new music)
Cortney Tidwell - "LaLa"
Let's Go Sailing - "Better Off"
Palomar - "Our Haunt"
Sybarite - "Dot The Lines" (concert report music)
(9:20 - more new music)
Nurse & Soldier - "Bought Up Too Soon"
The Brothers Martin - "Get The Money"
Arcade Fire - "(antichrist television blues)"
Don Lennon - "Our Bodies"
(9:40 - lotsa new music)
BARR - "Half of Two Times Two (Newer Version)"
Bobby Conn - "Love Let Me Down"
The Caution Curves - "Christmas"
Peter Bjorn & John - "Roll The Credits"
(9:55 - the appropriate conclusion)
The Apples In Stereo - "Same Old Drag/Joanie Don't U Worry"
if you missed the show you still have 2 weeks to catch it on the archives!
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