oceans never listen

My Favourite 100 Songs of 2011 (Just Another List)

2012-02-01T22:55:00.001+11:00

A few weeks ago I posted a selection of my favourite songs of 2011. A selection of 15 or so powered by the beauty of You Tube. Since then I have read some excellent lists that went a whole lot further. Up to 100 in fact. Like here, here, here, here and here. So I decided to create a list for myself. No real reason other then that I like to create lists. I see some list makers will limit each artist to only one song. Some go unlimited. I have decided to compromise. A limit of three songs per artist.
Hope you find something on the list you enjoy.

1. Vomit-Girls
2. Postcard From 1952-Explosions In The Sky
3. Whalesong (Song Instead Of A Kiss)-Moonface
4. Helplessness Blues-Fleet Foxes
5. The Creature-Kurt Vile
6. Calgary-Bon Iver
7. The Last Living Rose-PJ Harvey
8. Goshen-Beirut
9. Alsatian Darn-Panda Bear
10. How Darwinian-Dan Mangan
11. I Might-Wilco
12. How Come You Never Go There-Feist
13. Serve The People-Handsome Furs
14. Putting The Dog To Sleep-The Antlers
15. Quail And Dumplings-Bonnie 'Prince' Billy
16. Stamp-The Rural Alberta Advantage
17. Beautiful Burning Desire-Blackout Beach
18. Wood-Rostam
19. Light Emerges-Akron/Family
20. Rivers Of Gold-Bry Webb
21. The Stars In His Head (Dark Lights Remix)-Colin Stetson
22. White Sun-Dawn Golden and Rosy Cross
23. Suicide Demo For Kara Walker-Destroyer
24. Inn Of The Seventh Ray-Eleanor Friedberger
25. Last Known Surroundings-Explosions In The Sky
26. River Jordan-The Felice Brothers
27. The Plains/Bitter Dancer-Fleet Foxes
28. My Ma-Girls
29. No Church In The Wild-Jay-Z & Kanye West
30. On Tour-Kurt Vile
31. Return To The Violence Of The Ocean Floor-Moonface
32. We Need A Myth-Okkervil River
33. Twigs and Stones-Siskiyou
34. Come To The City-The War On Drugs
35. L Y F-WU LYF
36. Holocene-Bon Iver
37. Otis-Jay-Z & Kanye West
38. Drmz-A.A. Bondy
39. Baby's Arms-Kurt Vile
40. Sara-Chad VanGaalen
41. Another Sky-Akron/Family
42. Art Of Almost-Wilco
43. Hank Williams-Roadside Graves
44. Old Friend-Caveman
45. Undertaker-Bry Webb
46. Forgiveness-Girls
47. The Shrine/An Argument-Fleet Foxes
48. Repatriated-Handsome Furs
49. Murder To Excellence-Jay-Z & Kanye West
50. Black Water Falls-The War On Drugs
51. Fast Peter-Moonface
52. In The Dark Places-PJ Harvey
53. Corsicana-The Antlers
54. Act On Impulse-We Were Promised Jetpacks
55. Dozens-The Paper Scissors
56. Shaking Down The Old Bones-The Darcys
57. Circuital-My Morning Jacket
58. Keno-Dick Diver
59. Black Night-The Dodos
60. One-Month Marathon-Eleanor Friedberger
61. Montana-Youth Lagoon
62. Calico Ghost-Deepest Bison
63. Get Right-Megafaun
64. Go-Seekae
65. The Park-Secret Cities
66. Barnes' Yard-The Rural Alberta Advantage
67. Asking Price-Stephen Malkmus & The Jicks
68. The Silver Lining-Gold Leaves
69. Only In My Double Mind-Centro-Matic
70. The Gold Is Gone-Charge Group
71. Poor In Love-Destroyer
72. Everybody! Do The Twist!-Antiques
73. Cows-Bonnie 'Prince' Billy
74. Dirt-WU LYF
75. Countdown-Beyonce
76. Mona Lisa-Atlas Sound
77. Surfer King-A.A. Bondy
78. Come On Over-Veronica Falls
79. The Valley-Okkervil River
80. The Autopsy Garland-The Mountain Goats
81. For 12-Other Lives
82. Black Hills-Gardens & Villa
83. About As Helpful As You Can Be Without Being Any Help At All-Dan Mangan
84. Municipality-Real Estate
85. Cicadas And Gulls-Feist
86. 5 Chords-The Dears
87. O Holy Break Of Day-Waters
88. Swerve... the Reeping of all That is Worthwhile (Noir not Withstanding)-Shabazz Palaces
89. Goodbye Bread-Ty Segall
90. Civilian-Wye Oak
91. Rubber-Yuck
92. Dreamin-Twerps
93. Lost In The Trees-Richmond Fontaine
94. Same Mistake-Clap Your Hands Say Yeah
95. Black Dress-O'Death
96. Overcoat-John Vanderslice
97. Black Death 1349-The Middle East
98. Scottish Winds-Frightened Rabbit
99. Blood-The Dears
100. Ladder Song-Bright Eyes

Eleanor Friedberger @ Famous Spiegeltent

2012-01-29T11:06:00.000+11:00

Eleanor Friedberger was pleasant. Extremely pleasant. And that is not to slight her. I mean that in a nice way. She seems a gentle soul, giving and caring. Amiable. So an hour in her company in the Spiegeltent on a Saturday night on the second last night of the Sydney Festival was something that was totally and thoroughly enjoyable. Melodies and vocals that charmed and graced us all.

I have long been a Fiery Furnaces fan, even if recent albums were not quite at the dizzying levels of earlier work. Then last year Eleanor broke out and released a wonderful solo album, a favourite of 2011. So to see her live was hopefully going to be a treat. And it was. Despite a false start, amp problems, she gave us a small slice of American pop goodness. It was also a treat to hear many new songs, and covers, for the first time. Of course she played us tunes off "Last Summer", with "Inn of The Seventh Ray" and "Scenes From Bensonhurst" being particular standouts. Of the newer songs, two of which might have played live for the first time, I really liked the opener "I Don't Want To Bother You" and "There are Other Boys Too". She also gave us a Texan themed cover section as well. There was a Buddy Holly cover, but the one I loved was the Spoon cover. This had me very excited. She also managed to throw in a couple of Fiery Furnaces songs including the impossibly melodic "Tropical Ice-Land" to close the night. A night that was just wonderful and full of happiness. And happiness is a good thing you know. Having said this I do realise that a lot of her songs are quite sad lyrically. But sadness makes me happy if you get my drift.

Set List
I Don't Want To Bother You
My Mistakes
Dearest (Buddy Holly cover)
I'll Never Be Happy Again
Heaven
Early Earthquake
Lost At Sea (Fiery Furnaces song)
Dallas (Jimmie Dale Gilmore cover)
Inn Of The Seventh Ray
That Was When I Knew (I Was Wrong)
Trouble Comes Running (Spoon cover)
There Are Other Boys Too
Scenes From Bensonhurst
More of the Same?
I Won't Fall Apart On You Tonight
Echo Of Your Encore?
Stare At The Sun

Tropical Ice-Land (Fiery Furnaces song)

Kanye West @ Sydney Entertainment Centre

2012-01-28T22:11:00.003+11:00

Well, then I touched him. There was that. But I will get to that later. It was big. It was brash. It was LOUD. It was fun. We weren't with 'our people'. But we were dazzled, enraptured. We were having fun. Big balls of flaming fun. As they say, haters gotta hate, but Kanye West is a unique and singular talent. As my love for anything hip hoppy had diminished since the days of De La Soul and Public Enemy I honestly never thought I would be at a show like this. At a packed Sydney Entertainment Centre. With people I have little in common with. Well, except maybe basketball. But Kayne is no ordinary artist. No ordinary man.

It was "My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy" that made me sit up and take notice. It was a grand statement. Greatness. Sure I knew "Gold Digger" and "Stronger". But it was the 2010 masterpiece that whetted my appetite to see him live. So when he announced a show in Sydney we thought 'Let's Go'. It was spectacular. From the moment Kanye arose in cherry picker surrounded by smoke belting out "Dark Fantasy" we knew we weren't in Kansas anymore. Add to this a throng of feathered dancers on stage and we were off. "Power" and "Jesus Walks" assaulted us and got everyone up and dancing. It was loud though. Not in a ear piercing Mogwai type. But in crunching, distorted type of way. It buried the vocals, taking the subtleties away. But I guess these sort of shows are not about the subtleties they are about the spectacular. And it was spectacular. Divided into three acts, Kanye orchestrated an event, a mesmeric piece of theatre. He was all over the place, prowling the stage and sometimes using the runway to incite the adoring crowd. I thought he might have back up singers or rappers. But it was just him on vocals. With a guitarist, a keyboard player and a DJ who gave us plenty of samples to round out the songs. The dancers would come and go for various songs, with costume changes each time. "Hell of a Life" was another highlight early, a stalking beast of power. I also enjoyed the mid section with "Love Lockdown" proving irresistible and "Heartless" seemed a fan favourite with a massive singalong. It was during "Touch the Sky" that Kanye decided to go on a trek into the crowd. Next thing I knew he was coming up the stairs and going right by me. Instinctively I just reached out a hand and touched him. Slightly surreal. "Gold Digger" followed and of course was huge fun. But it was act three that is blistered into my mind. A huge white sheet enveloped the stage (with the Chariots of Fire being played) and then it was lifted to reveal a group of ballerinas in black dresses. Kanye was centre stage on a platform. Then he rang out the opening piano parts of "Runaway". Then the song extended into a twenty minute jam with Kanye exposing his soul in a way that was true and effective. Then "Lost in the World" and "Hey Mama" brought the show home with perfect timing. It was two hours of spectacular fun. An experience that I am glad I went through. Talent walks. Talent talks.

Set List
Act One
H.A.M. (intro)
Power
Jesus Walks
Can't Tell Me Nothing
Hell Of A Life
Flashing Lights
Monster
Good Life
Act Two
Love Lockdown
Say You Will
Heartless
Run This Town (Jay-Z cover) (partial)
Homecoming (partial)
American Boy (Estelle cover)
Through The Wire
All Falls Down
We Will Rock You (Queen cover) (partial)
E.T. (Katy Perry cover)
Touch The Sky
Gold Digger
All Of The Lights
Stronger
Act Three
Chariots of Fire
Runaway
Lost In The World
Hey Mama

Changes

2012-01-26T09:43:00.000+11:00

Five years ago today, Australia Day, I met my beautiful wife. To cut a long story short we had met through my blog. She commented on Modest Mouse and Mountain Goats gigs that we had both been to. Soon we were Last Fming and emailing. Then I had tickets to a great gig. Joanna Newsom, Andrew Bird and Bill Callahan on January 26, 2007. We met. We connected. We became gig buddies. We became friends. We became boy and girl friends. We bought a house together. We got married.

So it's now been 5 and a half years or so since I started my blog. As I have mentioned before I don't always have the time or dedication to update constantly. My passion is still high for all the things I love, but sometimes sitting in front of a keyboard and writing is not a priority, Conversely my wife used to have a blog, long started before mine. It was a life blog though, not just music. It was her thoughts and ideas, beautifully written. She ceased though, but lately she has the bug again. To write and express. About the things she loves. She loves music. The Mountain Goats, Wilco, Ani DiFranco, Sufjan Stevens, Frightened Rabbit, Arcade Fire. That sort of thing. She doesn't get Animal Collective, but I'm trying. She loves reading. Vonnegut, Safran Foer, Winterson, etc. She loves art. Whiteley, Klimt, Boyd, Degas, etc. She loves a good film and a good play. She will write here occasionally. Whenever she feels the urge. Could be weekly, could be monthly, could be yearly. She is my wife. She is Karen.

Sam Amidon @ Famous Spiegeltent

2012-01-22T22:53:00.001+11:00

Another night at the Sydney Festival, another enjoyable and rewarding evening. Sam Amidon was compelling, unique and slightly odd, but in a good way. In fact his generous and strange personality was something I will long remember from the night, even more than the music. Which was pretty damn great anyway. Spiegeltent experiences are always great and this was no different. January in Sydney makes you feel good to be alive.

You know I should read liner notes more often. I have the last two Sam Amidon albums and have enjoyed them immensely, but yesterday I was looking at the CDs more closely and noticed that basically all of the material were renditions of traditional folk songs. From Europe and America. I had originally believed that Sam was just tapping into ancient traditions, but he was actually bringing old tunes to life, giving them air and in turn airing them to modern audiences. He does it with immense care and craft. The man is uniquely talented. He was joined on stage by the equally talented and fellow Vermonter Chris Vatalaro who skilfully played guitar, drums and piano. But it was Sam who demanded our full attention. He started with the delightful banjo on “How Come The Blood”, his voice a tender vessel, occupying the middle ranges it was quite unique and effective in its deadpan way. Sam would also ply the acoustic guitar as he wended his way through the treasure trove of traditional folk. I particularly loved “I See The Sign” and "O Death". The only slight quibble is that being fairly simple arrangements the melodies don’t tend to stand out and can blend into one after another. But the best remedy was to close your eyes, immersing yourself in the music, pretending you are sitting on a back porch somewhere in the 1950s. Gorgeous. But as said it was Sam’s quixotic personality that shone through. I noticed early on that sometimes he would burst into a small, shy grin during a song. Sometimes if he missed a note, he would change the song and roar with a robust thrust. As if bored with what he was playing. In between songs he would break into banter that was both humorous and odd. Whether it about Kirsten Dunst and her face, or secret writing societies in Connecticut he kept us entertained. It certainly wasn’t the usual “Sydney’s a nice place to be in” chit chat. He even busted out a few push ups at the end of one song. So after a very entertaining hour he departed briefly before returning for more surprises. Firstly he brought out his violin and gave us a great rendering of “He Woke Up Maggie” and then we joined in singing with him the R. Kelly cover in “Relief”. I don’t even believe this was ironic appreciation, although perhaps it was hard to tell. A fun and surprising night, in more ways than one.

Set List
How Come That Blood
The Streets Of Derry
I See The Sign
Rain And Snow
?
?
O Death
Little Satchel
Saro
Wedding Dress
Pretty Fair Damsel

O Where Is My Little Darlin
Climbing High Mountains/Relief

A.A. Bondy @ Idolize Spiegeltent

2012-01-21T14:02:00.000+11:00

Muted tones, rustic texture. Heart. Earnestness. Organic. Honest. Effective. Americana comes to Parramatta. With grace, charm and class. There is no doubt that Friday night in the company of A.A. Bondy exceeded all of my expectations to become what will undoubtedly be one of the shows of 2012.

Firstly it was a trip to Prince Alfred Park in Parramatta and a first visit to the Idolize Spiegeltent as part of the Sydney Festival. I think it's great that events like this are brought to the geographical heart of Sydney. May there be many more if they are of this quality. And quality it was. I have been a solid fan of New York (via Alabama) songwriter A.A. Bondy for quite a while. Through three albums he has delivered honest, touching, authentically great music culminating in 2011's wonderful "Believers". It was this album that most of the set was drawn from. In fact he played every song from that album.It was a little bit of a shaky start in that opener "The Heart Is Willing" suffered from a poor mix. The guitar was too loud and the vocals buried. But it settled from the majestic opening chords of "Skull and Bones". Stark and pared back this song floated through the small venue. "Surfer King" soon followed and was just as well received. These songs amply showed off Bondy's great strengths as a singer and writer. His voice is muted and under stated. His southern drawl held in check to let the emotion of the music shine through. His lyrics are quietly poetic too. Vignettes of broken lives and lives lived. When older tune "Mightiest Of Guns" came along and shone I knew this was a special night. Bondy is a great guitarist too, his fingers sliding up and down the fret, pulling power and subtlety with equal effect. Sometimes he would choke the life out of the instrument, sometimes he was as delicate as someone picking the teardrops from an eyelash. The band was in sync to, a nuanced drummer and two guitarists who knew how to fill in the gaps. To cement the night of Americana Bondy returned solo in the encore and performed a lilting rendition of "Killed Myself When I Was Young" and then followed with a moving Hank Williams cover, proving the singer to be a worthy addition to the great American tradition of singers like Oldham, Callahan and Molina.

Set List
The Heart Is Willing
Down In The Fire (Lost Sea)
Skull and Bones
123 Dupuy Street
Surfer King
Mightiest Of Guns
A Slow Parade
Hiway/Fevers
Drmz
The Twist
Rte 28/Believers
Scenes From A Circus
When The Devil's Loose

Killed Myself When I Was Young
I'm So Lonesome I Could Cry (Hank Williams cover)

PJ Harvey @ State Theatre

2012-01-20T11:30:00.001+11:00

Lights dimmed. Smoke rose. Anticipation was high. A woman of slight stature, but great substance entered the stage. She wore long black flowing robes, feathers in her hair. Three men in Edwardian clothing joined her. She gripped us, she enclosed us. She was PJ Harvey.

Thursday night at the ornate State Theatre was a night of perfect moments. Of something all together unreal and special. Of time standing still, all of us knowing that this was indeed something special. You could say I have long been a casual fan of Ms Harvey. I owned the odd album and always enjoyed her music without delving fully into her full repertoire. I had seen her years ago at a Big Day Out, but never in her own individual setting. This then represented a great opportunity. Especially after falling under the spell of her latest opus in "Let England Shake". This album was a musical departure, epic and dark. Solemn and terrifyingly good. So the show encapsulated this. PJ played the entire album, all done with grace and class. She didn't rock the stage, but she certainly graced it. Her performance was almost theatrical. Armed with an autoharp, and sometimes guitar, she swayed and quietly danced. Moving lithely back into the dark after each song, sometimes with a subtle dance. "All And Everyone" was heartbreaking doom. "In The Dark Places" was glorious and sublime. "The Last Living Rose" rose and sank with superb class. My heart sighed during "On Battleship Hill" and my heart ached as she serenaded us with "England". It was however some songs from "White Chalk" that proved to be my absolute highlights. In the middle of the set she dropped in "The Devil" and "Dear Darkness" with devastating effect. Then the closer "Silence" sent us home with joy singing through our bodies. This was a unique show. Atmsophere was fairly dripping from the walls. The band was great in support too. PJ's performance was full of power, my god her voice, but also managed to be restrained and subtle. She is a very sensual creature, moving with elegance and comeliness. Inviting us, gratefully, into her complex world.

Set List
Let England Shake
The Words That Maketh Murder
All And Everyone
The Big Guns Called Me Back
Written On The Forehead
In The Dark Places
The Devil
Dear Darkness
The Glorious Land
The Last Living Rose
England
Pocket Knife
Bitter Branches
On Battleship Hill
Down By The Water
C'mon Billy
Hanging In The Wire
The Colour Of The Earth

The Piano
Angelene
Silence

New Music From Dirty Three

2012-01-18T15:59:00.001+11:00

It's been a long while, but the wait is nearly over. Seminal and legendary Australian three piece Dirty Three have a new album coming out. "Toward the Low Sun" will be released on February 28 on Drag City. Their first in seven years and their first on that label. Please listen to a track for preview below. So excited to see them again in February.

Toward the Low Sun Track Listing
1 Furnace Skies
2 Sometime I Forget You've Gone
3 Moon on the Land
4 Rising Below
5 The Pier
6 Rain Song
7 That Was Was
8 Ashen Snow
9 You Greet Her Ghost

MP3: Rising Below

Moonrise Kingdom Trailer

2012-01-14T16:49:00.002+11:00

Wes Anderson!
Cinema is back!

Dan Deacon @ Keystone Festival Bar

2012-01-12T11:14:00.001+11:00

This was fun with a capital F. Well, a capital Red F if you know what I mean. It's hard to put into words what a Dan Deacon show is like. The big man from Baltimore is all about community and joy. He is bulging with bodaciousness. He is bigger than life. He is love and happiness and connection and all of disciples are made to feel it.

Where to start? Well firstly this is now Dan Deacon and his Ensemble. Four very talented people from Baltimore including producer Chester Gwazda who played synth and keyboard. He also had another keyboardist and two drummers! Dan himself was up on stage with his huge mixing desk. So initially I thought the audience participation might be a thing of the past as he wasn't down in the crowd with his people. Which would have been fine as the music was plenty to take in and absorb. Huge epic symphonies and wonderful pop moments meshing together in an organic maelstrom. And the live drumming added a further touch to the music, pushing each song with robust thrusts. Opener "Get Older" was bombastic and huge and "Paddling Ghost" was whirlwind fun. Then new song "U.S.A." was a monster. A beast. But after about 20 minutes Dan involved the audience in all of the fun. First we formed a circle and two people at a time were invited to dance like crazy before tagging fresh people to join in. Somehow I ended up in the front of the circle and I was tagged to dance. Which I did. Huge fun. Then later on we formed a walkway with couples continually running and dancing up and down the lane. Soon we were forming a human tunnel which extended out into the Hyde Park Barracks courtyard. My absolute highlight though was when we formed a circle around Sophie (a close friend I presume) and shadowed her interpretive dance moves. As the band played the stratospheric "Of the Mountain". It was actually not only great fun, but quite emotionally affecting. A sublime moment. The band pushed on with the uplifting "Build Voice" and the super fun "The Crystal Cat". To then receive "Wham City" was simply more than we could have possibly asked for. So much fun. Such a connection to previous strangers. It's a great feeling to not only share but feel quite deeply a common experience. This was my first Sydney Festival experience in 2012 but Dan Deacon and his Ensemble have set the bar very high.

Set List
Get Older
Red F
Paddling Ghost
Baltihorse
Trippy Green Skull
Of the Mountains
U.S.A.
Build Voice
The Crystal Cat
Wham City

Andrew Bird Album Details

2012-01-11T10:44:00.000+11:00

Andrew Bird will be releasing a new album on March 6. "Break It Yourself" is the name and it the musician's first on Mom and Pop Records. It was produced at Bird's barn/studio in western Illinois.
“We had our front of house engineer Neal Jensen bring his old Tascam 8-track tape machine and Yamaha board (nothing fancy) out to my barn,” Bird said about the recording.

“We rolled tape as we were learning the songs and to our surprise we started nailing the songs by the second take. I think we got a rough, unfussy honesty in this session.” Bird said the sessions for the album were a “mix of distilled, grounded songs and some wild soloing.” The band for the Break It Yourself session included long-term collaborator Martin Dosh on drums, Jeremy Ylvisaker on guitar and Mike Lewis on bass.

Break It Yourself Track Listing
1 Desperation Breeds...
2 Polynation
3 Danse Caribe
4 Give It Away
5 Eyeoneye
6 Lazy Projector
7 Near Death Experience Experience
8 Behind the Barn
9 Lusitania
10 Orpheo Looks Back
11 Sifters
12 Fatal Shore
13 Hole in the Ocean Floor
14 Belles

Beirut @ Sydney Opera House

2012-01-05T23:33:00.002+11:00

It's the horns. Has to be the horns. We were swamped and drowned in them gloriously last night at the Sydney Opera House. A sublime show by the seriously talented Beirut. There were trumpets, trombones, french horns and a massive tuba. They all combined for a wildly exciting night.

A Beirut show is great because the sum is greater than the parts. To be sure, this band has some great songs. But collectively they really matter. The combine for a knockdown effect. Played on their own they have lovely qualities, but in total they are a sumptuous feast to be gorged upon. Swallowed whole and digested with glee. It's also quite a ear change to connect with a band that isn't guitar centric.I mean I love my guitars, forever. But this was different. Of course there were drums. And an electric bass, but even this was used sparingly. Front and centre was a piano accordion, two trumpets and a trombone. Sometimes these were augmented by the french horn and the tuba. They all combined to create a symphony of brass. Triumphant and ecstatic. They would surge and lift at the end of every track, bringing smiles to all those lucky to be in attendance. Of course up front was lead man Zach Condon. He would swap between trumpet and a small traveler guitar, all the time serenading us with his warm and generous voice. His voice is an instrument in itself. Informative and encouraging. Of course there were songs that stood out from the crowd. Longtime favourite "Postcards From Italy" was delectable, whilst lesser known songs like "The Shrew" and "The Akara" were rollicking good fun. "A Sunday Smile" was gorgeous, as was new favourite "Goshen", which Zach performed on piano. Another definite highlight was the epic closer "The Gulag Orkestar", which was blazing cacophony of horns. Man, 2012 has started very well indeed.

Set List
Scenic World
The Shrew
Elephant Gun
Vagabond
Postcards From Italy
The Concubine
A Sunday Smile
East Harlem
Mount Wroclai (Idle Days)
Forks and Knives (La Fête)
The Akara
Nantes
Port Of Call
Cherbourg
Goshen
After The Curtain
Santa Fe

The Penalty (Zach solo)
Carousels
My Night With The Prostitute From Marseille
The Gulag Orkestar

Fleet Foxes @ Sydney Opera House

2012-01-02T23:40:00.000+11:00

Iconic setting. Iconic band. Well, pretty much so. For in a few short years the Foxes of the swift variety have dug a hole in our heart and are here to stay. I think it's the voices. The majestic, soaring vocals that elevate us to a different place. A place of space and grace. A glorious summer night in Sydney was spent in the Sydney Opera House Concert Hall. The first of three sold out nights. Those lucky people going to nights two and three are in for an experience and a half. This was faultless.

The heavy double bass of Morgan Henderson signaled the beginning of "The Plains/Bitter Dancer" and we were instantly wrapped in their strong arms. What a start. "Mykonos" and "English House" were like old friends, kind and gentle ones that said hello and gave good company. "Battery Kinzie" was all drums and thrust, delightful in all aspects. And so it flowed. Vocals rang out, harmonies floated in air. Smiles were breaking out everywhere. Mine was a watermelon. The flutes called us to "Your Protector" and its stark beauty kicked me in the chest. Then a double punch. "White Winter Hymnal" segued with ease into "Ragged Wood". Exhilarating. But the next double was truly sublime. Most of the band cleared out and Robin Pecknold gently serenaded us with "Montezuma". "So now I am older than my mother and fatherwhen they had their daughter, now what does that say about me..." Christian Wargo and J. Tillman gave considerable support with their superb harmonies. I think this is paramount as to why this Seattle band stands out from the pack. Besides them being superb and gifted musicians it is the harmonies. Oh, the harmonies. Voices gifted and sure. Clear and precise. Emotional and direct. Be still my beating heart. Oh, where was I? Oh yes, "Montezuma" led us to "He Doesn't Know Why". Glorious. The show rolled to an ecstatic finish with the rollicking "Grown Ocean" closing with perfection. An encore was gratefully accepted. Robin played a new song solo in "I Let You". There was stunned silence in the house. Closing the night with "Helplessness Blues" was perhaps predictable, but oh so great. Great. great, great. My only small complaint of the night was the fact that even though we were in a great room with amazing acoustics I really wanted to stand up and sing out loud. Maybe I could have, but there is a dread feeling of inhibition in venues like this. It can feel a little sterile at times. Small complaint though. Early days, but could be gig of the year!

Set List
The Plains/Bitter Dancer
Mykonos
English House
Battery Kinzie
Bedouin Dress
Sim Sala Bim
Your Protector
White Winter Hymnal
Ragged Wood
Montezuma
He Doesn't Know Why
Lorelai
The Shrine/An Argument
Blue Spotted Tail
Grown Ocean

I Let You (Robin solo)
Sun It Rises
Blue Ridge Mountains
Helplessness Blues

Favourite Films Of 2011

2011-12-31T13:47:00.002+11:00

2011 would seem to me to be a great year in film. Many quality films (Submarine, Take Shelter, Melancholia, etc.) didn't even make my top ten, so I think that pays testament to those that did. It also seemed to be a down year for Australian movies. My favourite local film was Red Dog, which was very enjoyable but hardly revolutionary cinema. Of course Hollywood continued to push out the 'comedies' and sequels, many of which proved to be uninspired and uninspiring. The year started with a poor decision in the shocking win of The King's Speech at the Academy Awards. A solid and enjoyable film to be sure, but hardly in the league of the remarkable The Social Network. February's awards should honour the landmark film of 2011 in The Tree of Life. Should I say, but no doubt a much safer pick will prevail. Which is a pity because Malick's visionary masterpiece towered above the pack in 2011.
Happy new year and here's to a great 2012 in film!

1. The Tree Of Life, directed by Terrence Malick.
This is not film as we know it. It transcends film and all other film makers. Beguiling, confusing, sublime, luminescent, cryptic, emotional, stunning. All words to describe this masterpiece. Terrence Malick makes films like no others and I am truly grateful. In a nutshell, The Tree of Life concerns the life of a family in 1950s Texas. Brad Pitt and Jessica Chastain play the parents of 3 boys who are alive to the experience and lessons of life. In fact I don't think I have ever seen a better portrayal of burgeoning adolescence. But this film is much more than that. Coupled with flashbacks, flash forwards and voice over and an extended sequence on the earth's creation it tries, very successfully, to imbue us with the feeling and pain and joy of life. There is not much plot here, rather it is a million tiny images of life. It is feeling and meaning rather then exposition. If you like easy viewing steer clear. If you desire blinding originality then see this wonder at least three times.

2. Moneyball, directed by Bennett Miller.
Superb film about the true story of the economics of baseball. Brad Pitt plays Billy Beane with deft humour and great humanity. Beane tries to shake up traditional ways of baseball thinking by introducing stats and science to picking players. A supremely intelligent film that is superbly written by Aaron Sorkin and expertly directed by Miller. His direction is in fact seamless as the film as an effortless flow that superbly picks up the shades and nuances of life itself.

3. Black Swan, directed by Darren Aronofsky.
Ambition, ambition, ambition! That's what makes a great film and this most assuredly is one. Director Aronofksy has crafted a compelling and near flawless film that grips you from start to finish. Totally captures the mind battle that lead ballerina Nina is undergoing. Her psychological battles are intense and totally disturbing. Natalie Portman has never been better in the lead role. Her journey is quite remarkable.The ballet scenes are handled beautifully and evoke, to a novice, a wonderful reality. Only slight drawback is the rather one dimensional character of the ballet company director. The score by Clint Mansell is also superb.

4. Drive, directed by Nicolas Winding Refn.
Brutally stylish and stylishly brutal, Drive is a thrilling and cerebral journey of determination and betrayal. Ryan Gosling is stunning as 'the driver' who becomes entangled in a violent game of cat and mouse. This is the ultimate genre piece, it dissects and lays bare human nature and weaknesses. A slow burn of a film, it erupts into violent acts in the second half. Precise direction, superb cinematography and flawless acting make for a exhilarating ride.

5. The Fighter, directed by David O. Russell.
A surprisingly wonderful film. Great performances and brutal honesty lead to a rich and rewarding experience. Christian Bale is sublime as the hopeless brother who holds back his more earnest sibling. David O. Russell evokes classic Scorsese, with long panning shots, gritty dialogue and instinctive use of music. Cliches are on the back burner here and thankfully even the boxing scenes are bearable. A film with great heart and humour, it will totally involve you from start to finish.

6. Howl, directed by Rob Epstein and Jeffrey Friedman.
An avalanche of words becomes a paean to the power of poetry. Simply, Howl is the story of Allen Ginsberg and the obscenity trial of his famous poem Howl. But this is much more then that. With its brave and unique style of animated poetry, court room scenes, flashbacks and interviews it weaves a stunning portrait of the 1950s. Of liberalism, censorship, art and creation. Franco is great as Ginsberg and there are nice cameos from Daniels and Parker. This is a short film, but there is much packed in its beautiful screen time.

7. True Grit, directed by Joel and Ethan Coen.
The Coen Brothers do not make bad films. Fact! Very often they are masterpieces. True Grit is not one, but it is a very fine film that is entertaining and at times engrossing. The story of the young girl teaming up with the grizzly old man is timeless and classic. With fine performances all round, the Coens play it remarkably straight. The dialogue is crisp and witty and the story arc is well rounded. Beautifully shot in New Mexico and Texas this is exemplary film making.

8. Catfish, directed by Henry Joost and Ariel Schulman.
Utterly fascinating and ultimately moving doco about the web of modern relationships. Nev, a New York photographer, builds an online relationship with a Michigan family. At first he befriends the 8yo daughter, but soon he becomes close with the entire family. I can't reveal much more, but I can say that the film will touch you to the core and become a sad and insightful peer into the human mind and heart.

9. The Ides Of March, directed by George Clooney.
This film has quite possibly the best cast of actors seen in recent memory. Thankfully they are aided by tight direction and astute writing to form an intelligent, timely expose of the grubby and dark side of politics. Men with essentially good ideals compromise their beliefs to meet their political ends. This is film making that is prescient and thought provoking. Gosling shines and, if possible, Hoffman yet again shows that there is no finer actor in the world today.

10. We Need To Talk About Kevin, directed by Lynne Ramsay.
Startling, unsettling and quite unique, this film unravels with gripping tension and sheer dread. The story of a family dealing with a problem child/adult is told with utmost care and attention and no sensationalism. Tilda Swinton is astounding in this superbly directed and edited film.

Films I plan to see in 2012-
War Horse
The Iron Lady
Hugo
The Descendants
J. Edgar
Tinker, Taylor, Soldier, Spy
The Artist
Shame
My Week With Marilyn
Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close
50/50

Best 50 Albums Of 2011

2011-12-21T12:19:00.003+11:00

As 2011 quietly and quickly comes to a close it is a good time to reflect on the year just past. A year of exploration and discovery, fun and enjoyment. Pain and beauty. Joy and ragged edges. Trends and movements. Disappointment and surprise. Elation. Sometimes. Many albums were purchased, yes I still do that, and some exceeded expectations.
Some didn't.

One album though met and exceeded all expecations. The cover told a story. Through faces, homes, planes and mountains we peered into the depth of humanity. From within voices glistened and instruments sounded the memory lines of music. Fleet Foxes showed that it is still possible to make music that matters. That can lift you up and sometimes calm you down. It was a triumph to be sure. There were many others as well. Although I would consider 2011 to be a solid year in the scheme of things. I would suggest that there were perhaps two or possibly three classic albums. However there were an awful lot of very good to great albums. Many good albums failed to make my list in fact, but you need to draw the line somewhere. So without further ado, here they are!

1. Helplessness Blues-Fleet Foxes
From the very first second I heard the the title track my ears were tingling. My anticipation was set at high. Thankfully the remainder of the album lived up to the hope (hype?). This is music at its purest. Most serene, most quixotic. Most everything. More expansive, possibly darker, than the astounding debut, this album caresses and comforts. It is fun too. But in an important way. It lives and breathes. Tender moments explode into life continually. Oh harmony and melody!
MP3: Helplessness Blues

2. Take Care, Take Care, Take Care-Explosions In The Sky
The Texan quartet tried something different but still managed to deliver more of the same. That is, bonecrushing power and inescapable beauty. If you ignore trends and fads and concentrate on what is great I think it is impossible to deny the greatness that exists here. This music resonates like few others, sending me to places unknown. Guitars and drums flex their muscle with great effect. The magnificent "Postcard From 1952" is worth the price of admission alone.
MP3: Trembling Hands

3. Akron/Family II: The Cosmic Birth and Journey of Shinju TNT-Akron/Family
Quite a journey this one, but it is truly spectacular. Warm guitars wash over sublime harmonies with ease. Folk, rock, trance all combined into one glorious stew. This band has been on a roll for quite a while and there appears to be no stopping them yet. Emotionally charged music that hits a raw nerve with its honesty, directness and sincerity.
MP3: So It Goes

4. Bon Iver, Bon Iver-Bon Iver
Justin Vernon and company I think trumped the spectacular debut. These are glorious sounds, evoking memories and feelings that sit long in the mind. There is a warmness and almost sensual feeling that emanates almost through the entire album. Deep as a river and considerably consequential this release manages to improve with every single listen.
MP3: Calgary

5. Father, Son, Holy Ghost-Girls
A fantastic record. A fantasy. A unique experience. I never bought the hype before. In fact I was a little turned off. But this sledgehammer of an album turned me on. It sounds like The Beach Boys met Led Zeppelin in a seedy bar and decided to record an album. There are killer tracks everywhere, especially the superb "Vomit" and the heartfelt "My Ma".
MP3: Vomit

6. Organ Music Not Vibraphone Like I'd Hoped-Moonface
Sparse, spectacular music from the incomparable Spencer Krug. After the shock of losing Wolf Parade and maybe Sunset Rubdown, we waited for Krug's next move. Moonface was it. Five songs of cathartic power and stark emotion. Recorded on organ these songs grow and collapse onto themselves. I can not wait to see what Spencer does next.
MP3: Fast Peter

7. Burst Apart-The Antlers
2011 marked my awakening to The Antlers. I had owned "Hospice" and it was good. But this year I suddenly awoke to its greatness. So their new album was heavily anticipated. "Burst Apart" proved to be a mature, weighty, intelligent album, dripping with meaning and intent. Sad but never depressing this album packs a huge punch to the heart.
MP3: I Don't Want Love

8. I Am Very Far-Okkervil River
Batten down the hatches, here comes Will and company. All guns blazing, sabres rattling. This is a noisy, clattering album but it is also great. Fiery, passionate, literate. Yes, all those things that Okkervil River do so well. Long may you write songs Mr Sheff.
MP3: Wake And Be Fine

9. Slave Ambient-The War On Drugs
A complex, sophisticated, glittering album. These songs just reek of greatness and elan. When I listen to this album I just want to dive in and luxuriate in the tones and gentle shifts. Adam Granduciel's voice is luxurious and inviting, just like the music.
MP3: Come To The City

10. Wolfroy Goes To Town-Bonnie 'Prince' Billy
There is only one Will Oldham and another year on and another record released I am truly grateful for this. There is a quiet beauty to this album, it unfolds and informs, glueing together the wonder strains of American music. Glorious, just glorious.
MP3: We Are Unhappy

11. Smoke Ring For My Halo-Kurt Vile
Hard to separate this from number 9. Of course it is, Vile was a former member of The War On Drugs. The melodies, textures and subtle shifts and changes are a total delight.

12. No Color-The Dodos
Vibrant melodies abound with great effect. Back as a duo and stronger then ever. Doesn't hurt either to have the services of the great Neko Case.

13. Tomboy-Panda Bear
If not the total masterpiece that was Person Pitch, then this was still an excellent record in all departments. Noah Lennox is quite a visionary.

14. Sound Kapital-Handsome Furs
Dan and Alexei delivered album number three and it was just so much fun. Leaning even heavier on the keyboards, this was industrial and ecstatic.

15. Megafaun-Megafaun
Straddling several genres and styles this band continues to deliver impressive music with heart, soul and intelligence.

16. Metals-Feist
It felt like a long wait, but it was well worth it. Leslie Feist gave us an album that was more expansive, more weighty then her previous. But just as enjoyable.

17. Fuck Death-Blackout Beach
Fuck Death indeed. Carey Mercer proved yet again there is no one quite like him. A treatise on life, death and love delivered as only he can.

18. The Whole Love-Wilco
After a couple of albums that were worthy if just a little lacklustre Wilco returned with their best album in years. Inventive and exciting.

19. Mirror Traffic-Stephen Malkmus and the Jicks
A hugely enjoyable platter from Malk. Perhaps a couple of tracks could have been trimmed, but this was loaded front to back with great songs.

20. Oh Fortune-Dan Mangan
I'd slept on Dan Mangan before 2011, but this album awoke me totally. Earnest, sombre, fun all in one package. Fairly dripping with heart.

21. The Harrow & The Harvest-Gillian Welch
Talk about long waits. It felt forever, but it was worth it. The queen of bluegrass sent us a subtle, delicate exploration of roots music.

22. Outside-O'Death
I loved this album. It rages with spirit and heart. Urban meets country in a explosive way that is captivating and intoxicating.

23. The High Country-Richmond Fontaine
Willy Vlautin and company deliver a concept album and succeed greatly. The story of deception and love in a logging community is handled with great care. The chainsaw sea!

24. Degeneration Street-The Dears
Pretty much bad mouthed and forgotten but I'm not really sure why. Sure, it's overwrought but that doesn't really matter when it rocks so hard.

25. Let England Shake-PJ Harvey
A great reminder of the unique talents of PJ. Stark and unforgiving, this drips with intelligence and fierce desire. Seeing her in January. Very excited!

26. Apocalypse-Bill Callahan
Bill returned and reminded us of his considerable talent. That voice, those songs. If not a classic then still a great collection of cerebral songs.

27. Provider-Bry Webb
I literally only started listening to this album this week. Webb's voice is just so great. This is stark, heartfelt music of the highest order.

28. Go Tell Fire The Mountain-WU LYF
There was the mystery and the hype, but they lived up to it. I really enjoyed listening to this record. It was urgent, angry and full of fire and guts.

29. Departing-The Rural Alberta Advantage
Speaking of urgency, this album fairly rocketed along. If not quite as great as their debut it was still a hugely enjoyable slice of Canadian Indie rock.

30. The Rip Tide-Beirut
The buzz might have dissipated, but this album was sumptuous, smooth and utterly delightful.

31. Sun And Shade-Woods
One of my favourite bands delivered another slice of skewered pop.

32. In Loving Memory-The Paper Scissors
My favourite Australian album of the year. Raucous, fun and funky.

33. Diaper Island-Chad VanGaalen
A generous, spirited album of angular melodies and sounds.

34. Strange Hearts-Secret Cities
A band I have come to love. Charming and totally infectious.

35. Celebration,Florida-The Felice Brothers
The brothers returned with an eclectic chunk of rock and roll.

36. Kaputt-Destroyer
There was gold here, but some of this synth just got me down.

37. The King Is Dead-The Decemberists
A return to roots meant an album full of good times and smiles.

38. Believers-A. A. Bondy
Deliberate, soulful, slow. A serenade for hard times.

39. American Goldwing-Blitzen Trapper
Probably a bit overlooked, I found it an enjoyable ride.

40. We Can Take Care of Ourselves-Roadside Graves
For "Hank Williams" alone this was worth listening to.

41. Black Up-Shabazz Palaces
For what it's worth, the hip hop album of the year. Incendiary.

42. Keep Away The Dead-Siskiyou
A new discovery, this album was a total pleasure.

43. The Year Of Hibernation-Youth Lagoon
Quiet, reflective, contemplative. Look forward to seeing him in 2012.

44. Days-Real Estate
Not quite as good as the debut, but some glorious moments here.

45. Lonely Twin-Hospital Ships
Oddball, off kilter pop that tugs at the heart strings.

46. Parallax-Atlas Sound
Bradford Cox just keeps producing the goods.

47. I Want That You Are Always Happy-The Middle East
Sombre, dark and great. Pity they called it quits.

48. Tamer Animals-Other Lives
Another slice of great Americana.

49. New History Warfare Vol 2: Judges-Colin Stetson
Hard work in parts, but ultimately unique and rewarding.

50. Last Summer-Eleanor Friedberger
I love her voice. What more can I say!

Best Live Shows Of 2011

2011-12-19T22:21:00.001+11:00

Another year livin' the dream. Another year of coming face to face with my musical heroes. Sometimes I feel very fortunate indeed to be able to have a lifestyle where I can witness first hand on stage the live majesty of so many great artists. For the fact of Australia being seemingly so far away we do all right. Especially living in Sydney, the first port of call for most touring bands. Hey, it's not New York but we do all right.

Once again there were many great moments on the live scene. And there were two great festivals. Well three, I forgot the always impressive Sydney Festival. But Laneway was once again great, with Deerhunter, Local Natives and Menomena killing it live. Then in November we had the very first Harvest Festival, which proved with a monster lineup a great success. The National, The Walkmen, Phosphorescent and The Flaming Lips all proved their greatness. But there was one band which stood alone.
They are from Austin, Texas.

1. Explosions in the Sky @ Metro Theatre
Serene beauty, heart stopping power. A symphony of kinetic emotions. There truly is no one like this band. A sight to cherish and behold. Spiritual.

2. Okkervil River @ Metro Theatre
Maybe their best show yet. A thundering apocalypse of rock and roll. Then add in a touch of heart, spirit, passion and joy.

3. Menomena @ Factory Theatre
Longed to be my number show until late developments (see above). Despite losing Brent Knopf they didn't lose a beat. Truly intoxicating and bedazzling.

4. Will Sheff @ Toff In Town
A truly special weekend in Melbourne was topped off by seeing one of this generation's great songwriters in an intimate space in the great city of Melbourne.

5.The Books @ Seymour Centre
2011's most unique show. A masterful display of ingenuity and originality. A cosmic collision of words and sounds that has stayed with all year.

6. The National @ Enmore Theatre
Their victory lap. Self assured, confident. Emotionally connective.

7. Kurt Vile @ Oxford Art Factory
The hype was there. But this was great. A man to be reckoned with.

8. Modest Mouse @ Enmore Theatre
Flying under the radar perhaps, but greatness still lives.

9. The Felice Brothers @ Annandale Hotel
A ramshackle night of America came to the 'dale.

10. Sufjan Stevens @ Sydney Opera House
Wow! There is NO ONE like Sufjan. No one.

11. Beach House @ Beck's Festival Bar
They subtly get under your skin. Victoria is something else.

12. Charge Group @ Kings Cross Hotel
Australia's finest rocked a great new venue. Also killed it at Goodgod.

13. Grinderman @ Enmore Theatre
On a hot and sweaty night we worshiped at his feet.

14. Grinderman @ Factory Theatre
Little were we to know that there would be no more.

15. Built to Spill @ Metro Theatre
Legends to me, greatness never sounded so good.

16. Sebadoh @ Metro Theatre
Heroes of the 90's return triumphantly.

17. Grouplove @ Oxford Art Factory
Fun, fun and then just a little more fun.

18. Deerhunter @ Metro Theatre
Always a imposing presence live. Confounding but mesmeric.

19. The Paper Scissors @ Kings Cross Hotel
Always, always killer live.

20. Owen Pallett @ Famous Spiegeltent
A timely reminder of his huge talent.

Deepest Bison

2011-12-17T09:57:00.000+11:00

Deepest Bison are a late, great discovery in 2012 for me. Thanks to a recent Rawkblog post I have become bedazzled and entranced by his music. I can't tell you a lot about the artist except that his name is Kyle and the five tracks contained on "Haunted Tea Party" are all stellar.

<a href="http://deepestbison.bandcamp.com/album/haunted-tea-party">Haunted Tea Party by Deepest Bison</a>

Best Songs Of 2011

2011-12-14T22:36:00.001+11:00

I recently read a current musician's opinion on the 'glory' of pop music. The idea went something like this. Pop music is great because it crams so much into each and every second. Every second of each 'great' pop song is produced to the nth degree. Stylized and massaged to produce a product that is supposedly great. But I think this is the problem with most modern commercial pop music. There is so much production and refinement that the very life and joy is squeezed out. I like songs that feel rough around the edges, feel lived in. Ones that you can see and hear the spaces. There should be room for depth and light. There should be quiet and loud. Grit and crackle. Now of course there are always exceptions. As to every rule. But hopefully you see where I am going here.

Now in 2011 I don't believe there was a standout song. A signature moment. But I have picked a song for number one that I believe encapsulates all that goes into making a truly great song. It should hopefully be some sort of epic journey. It should thrill you and also touch you emotionally. It should definitely be original. "Vomit" by Girls fits that description I believe. It is a thunderclap of modern music.
What follows is a Youtube essay of my favourite songs of 2011.

Bearhug Release New Single

2011-12-14T10:30:00.000+11:00

Young Sydney band Bearhug have just released a new single. It's called "Angeline" and it features, as you would expect great melodies and jangly guitars. This song will feature on their debut album to be released in early 2012 on Spunk Records. The album was recently recorded at Sydney's Big Jesus Burger Studios.

Bearhug - 'Angeline' by SpunkRecords

Explosions In The Sky @ Metro Theatre

2011-12-12T00:30:00.001+11:00

Moments in time. Moments in space. Unbridled elation. Joy. Awe. Wonder. Awe and wonder. A thousand words will not possibly, can not possibly describe the experience that is an Explosions In The Sky show. It is beyond that. Feelings explode, hearts are stretched to their breaking point. The ONLY disappointing aspect of one of their shows is that they have to end. They end and then we return to the mundane existence of life. Knowing that they passed through our hearts and minds, holding us close and dear, sharing with us the sonic ecstacy of a night in their existence.

The curtain falls back and they enter. Celestial being Munaf Rayani thanks us and they start to play. From the opening notes of "The Only Moment We Were Alone", we all feel something special. A connection. An emotional harpoon to our heart. How does a band that doesn't use words impart so much emotion into each and every note. But they do. And how. By the end of their opening song I am trembling with joy and excitement. A song of such power also contains moments of breathtaking quietness. There is nothing quite like this song in the live arena. Fortunately the night continued to give and give. Until there was nothing left to give. Huge chunks of 2011 release "Take Care, Take Care, Take Care" were offered to us and we gladly accepted. I was particularly moved by "Postcard From 1952", a song of sublime excellence. Also great was "Let Me Back In", with its distinctive guitar riff. Of course everything played pretty much existed on the greatness level. Everything. But special mention should be given to closer "The Moon Is Down", which built and built to epic proportions. I simply closed my eyes and went along for the ride. Thankfully I opened them long enough to see Munaf have his guitar laid flat on the stage, while he proceeded to wail on it. Munaf is a unique character. The music flows through him on stage. At times he does an almost sensual dance whilst he plays his guitar. It is a sight to behold. All the band members also are affected by the music. They sway and writhe, shove and push their guitars. I think this is one of the primary reasons I love them so much. The music I believe means as much to them as it does to us. Perhaps more so. Although the quiet reverence that enfolds the sold out Metro Theatre perhaps shows that the love is evenly spead between stage and floor. As it ends the band thanks and departs. No encores. None needed. This is music. This is life. This is us.

Set List
The Only Moment We Were Alone
Last Known Surroundings
Catastrophe and the Cure
Postcard From 1952
Greet Death
Your Hand In Mine
Let Me Back In
The Birth and Death of the Day
The Moon Is Down

Kurt Vile @ Oxford Art Factory

2011-12-07T00:29:00.001+11:00

Tuesday night at the Oxford Art Factory I dipped my toe into the pool of American music. It felt so good I soon dived all the way in. Kurt Vile and his Violators practice a music that is timeless and classic. American beauty. Guitars ring and chime, vocals drift on the air. Music that is effortlessly good and sublimely graceful. It can also pack a punch.

Vile is currently touring Australia for the first time. By all accounts he is impressing and delighting all who see him. By my first hand account last night he delivered one of the finest shows of 2011. He strode on stage with his trusty acoustic, sans band, and subtly engaged us with the mesmeric "Blackberry Song". His guitar playing is classical and concise, giving off warm and rich tones. Soon his band of 3 joined him on stage and the guitars chimed and thrilled through "Runner Ups". This great song would be many through the night that he plucked from his outstanding 2011 release in "Smoke Ring For My Halo". The Violators were great in support as they traversed from slower tunes to all out rock songs that came with a 60s sludge vibe. This was evidenced on the back to back sledgehammer of "Hunchback" and "Freak Train". As great as these moments were it were quieter acoustic numbers that Vile played solo that truly stood out. You could hear a pin drop as Vile charmed us with "Peeping Tomboy", which was followed by an 'oldie' in "My Best Friends (Don't Even Pass This)". I was also truly delighted that he closed with the greatness that is "Society Is My Friend". Vile's voice bears mentioning as well. It is quiet and reflective, more a drawl than a voice. It is certainly distinctive and totally suits the music. The encore was sublime too. Vile played us "Baby's Arms" solo and this could have easily been the highlight of the night. Then he closed off the wonderful night with the Springsteen cover "Downbound Train" and the powerful "Laughing Stock", both of which recently appeared on his just released EP in "So Outta Reach". A great night.
A privilege to be there.

Set List
Blackberry Song
Runner Ups
Jesus Fever
On Tour
Freeway
Ghost Town
Hunchback
Freak Train
Peeping Tomboy
My Best Friends (Don't Even Pass This)
Puppet To The Man
Society Is My Friend

Baby's Arms
Downbound Train
Laughing Stock

New Music From Bowerbirds

2011-12-05T11:13:00.001+11:00

Bowerbirds return in 2012 with a new album. "The Clearing" will be album number three and will be released on March 6 on Dead Oceans. The new album was recorded with Brian Joseph in Wisconsin's treasured new studio, April Base, and with the help of some righteous microphones in a tiny, battered North Carolina cabin. It was mixed by Nicolas Vernhes in New York's Rare Book Room. The track available for preview is a thing of beauty.

MP3: Tuck The Darkness In-Bowerbirds

The Clearing Track Listing
1 Tuck The Darkness In
2 In The Yard
3 Walk the Furrows
4 Stitch the Hem
5 This Year
6 Brave World
7 Hush
8 Overcome With Light
9 Sweet Moment
10 Death Wish
11 No We Hurry On

Plants And Animals; Not Ending, Just Beginning

2011-12-03T13:12:00.001+11:00

One of my favourite bands in the world, and they should be yours are well, are returning with a new album on February 28, 2012. "The End of That" will be album number 3 for Montreal's very wonderful Plants and Animals, released once again by Secret City Records. Recorded and produced in Montreal and Paris, this album is definitely one of my most anticipated releases of 2012. Please listen to the first track available for preview below. It's pretty damn special!

The End of That Track Listing
1 Before
2 The End of That
3 Song For Love
4 Lightshow
5 Crisis!
6 2010
7 HC
8 Why & Why
9 Control Me
10 No Idea
11 Runaways

Plants and Animals - Lightshow by SecretCityRecords

Grinderman @ Factory Theatre

2011-12-02T00:13:00.001+11:00

Nick Cave doesn't so much perform. Doesn't just sing. Is no mere entertainer. He instructs us. He destroys us. He tears us apart. With ferocity and bewitching charisma. He is unique. He is, quite simply, incredible. His four man pack of wolves came to a small place on Thursday night and for an hour or so Grinderman assaulted us and inspired us. To feel. The burns in our throats. The ripped apart hearts.

The man, Mr Cave, comes to us in dapper suit and clear intent. He owns us. He is not one of us. A specimen, a throbbing whip of clear purpose. To see it clearly, there was a man on stage by the name of Warren Ellis. A deity unto us all. I barely noticed him. Mine eyes were carried by the glory of Cave. He entered us upon "Worm Tamer", staying around for "Get It On". He teased and delighted us with "Kitchenette", he slaughtered us with delight with "No Pussy Blues". Oh, I could go on. About this and that. About amazing rhythm sections, about tribal guitar sections. About mundane things. It don't matter. You had to be there. GRINDERMAN!!!!!

Set List
Mickey Mouse And The Goodbye Man
Worm Tamer
Get It On
Heathen Child
Evil
When My Baby Comes
What I Know
Honey Bee (Let's Fly To Mars)
Kitchenette
No Pussy Blues
Bellringer Blues

Palaces Of Montezuma
Man In The Moon
When My Love Comes Down
Love Bomb
Grinderman

Hinnom, TX-Bon Iver

2011-11-29T20:00:00.001+11:00

From the deluxe edition of Bon Iver!

Cast A Net-Akron/Family

2011-11-28T15:58:00.001+11:00

"Cast A Net" by Akron/Family from Secretly Jag on Vimeo.

One of my favourite songs of 2011!

New Music From Sharon Van Etten

2011-11-24T21:04:00.001+11:00

Jagjaguwar and Sharon Van Etten. Now that's a perfect match! Thankfully we can hear the results right now. Please listen to "Serpents" below, the first track released from her upcoming new album. "Tramp" will see the light of day on February 7 and features help from both Aaron and Bryce Dessner of the National, The Walkmen’s Matt Barrick, Wye Oak’s Jenn Wasner, and Doveman’s Thomas Bartlett.

Tramp Track Listing
1 Warsaw
2 Give Out
3 Serpents
4 Kevin's
5 Leonard
6 In Line
7 All I Can
8 We Are Fine
9 Magic Chords
10 Ask
11 I'm Wrong
12 Joke or a Lie

MP3: Serpents

The Shrine/An Argument-Fleet Foxes

2011-11-22T21:25:00.001+11:00

The Shrine / An Argument from Sean Pecknold on Vimeo.

The Last Living Rose-PJ Harvey

2011-11-20T10:52:00.001+11:00

I have always had an enormous amount of respect for PJ Harvey. But for whatever reason I haven't always been attentive to collecting her music. Even this year I missed the boat on "Let England Shake". Well I am well and truly aboard the boat now. It's a really great album and this song is perhaps my favourite. Very excited to see her perform in January!

News From Damien Jurado

2011-11-17T13:14:00.001+11:00

I have long been a fan of American singer Damien Jurado. So I am quite excited to reveal that he will be releasing a new album on Secretly Canadian on February 21. "Maraqopa" was produced by Richard Swift and contains 10 tracks in total. Can't wait!

Maraqopa Track Listing
1 Nothing Is The News
2 Life Away From The Garden
3 Maraqopa
4 This Time Next Year
5 Reel To Reel
6 Working Titles
7 Everyone A Star
8 So On, Nevada
9 Museum Of Flight
10 Mountains Still Asleep

MP3: Nothing Is The News

Harvest Festival (Sydney)

2011-11-14T00:46:00.001+11:00

Year One of Harvest. A raging success. A great day. An amazing experience. This 'civilised' gathering' was supposed to be a different creature. Relaxed, eclectic, superb music. It truly delivered. On a hot, but not unbearable day, we ventured to Western Sydney to the environs of Parramatta Park. Capped at just under 10,000, the crowd gathered surely had to leave with smiles and hearts aflame. I certainly did. A day of great music in a great setting. Of course with a lineup like the one assembled I had to miss out on some acts I would have liked to see. Such as Mercury Rev, Clap Your Hands Say Yeah, Mogwai. Plus I only witnessed half of Bright Eye. I did however catch the remarkable "Landlocked Blues", so all was not lost. I do know though that by the end of the night, as Portishead played in the distance, I had enjoyed a superb and rewarding day. Full reviews follow below.

First up were the remarkable The Walkmen. Stuck unfairly in a mid afternoon slot, they still managed to deliver a blistering, robust set. Their aching melodies and overpowering rhythms make for a potent mix. Drumming and guitar work is exemplary and quite unique. Hamilton Leithauser is an imposing front man, his vocals reaching far and wide. Highlights were the wonderful "In The New Year" and the unforgettable "All Hands and the Cook". They even played two new songs!

Set List
While I Shovel The Snow
Woe Is Me
On The Water
In the New Year
I'm Not Your Heartbreaker
Juveniles
New Song?
Blue As Your Blood
The Rat
All Hands and the Cook

Despite a poor mix, TV On The Radio still managed to put in a blistering and ferocious set. They have become a force to be reckoned with on stage. Tunde and Kyp offer the full range of vocals, inciting us all to dance and feel with equal effect. In particular "Blues Down Here" was a hulking beast and "Wolf Like Me" nearly tore our heads off. Incendiary.

Set List
Halfway Home
Wrong Way
Caffeinated Consciousness
Second Song
Golden Age
Will Do
Blues Down Here
Young Liars
Red Dress
Staring At The Sun
Repetition
Wolf Like Me

If was any doubt beforehand, there was certainly none afterwards. The National were the stars of the day. After a slightly flat start, they burst into life on the superb "Bloodbuzz Ohio" and then consistently had the enthusiastic crowd eating out of their hands. Oh yes, there was much hand clapping and singing. Highlights were "Fake Empire", "Conversation 16", "Apartment Story" and the storming closer "Terrible Love", where smouldering lead singer Matt Berninger climbed into a frenzied crowd. This is truly a great band, a band you must see at least once in your life.

Set List
Anyone's Ghost
Mistaken For Strangers
Bloodbuzz Ohio
Slow Show
Squalor Victoria
Afraid Of Everyone
Conversation 16
Apartment Story
Sorrow
England
Fake Empire
Mr November
Terrible Love

I was really keen to see Phosphorescent today and I was glad I did. The project of Matthew Houck has grown into a fully formed, swinging country band. But with a twist. Unfortunately only a small audience was on hand to witness the band play, but they sure received a great show. Their blend of off kilter, sombre country is deeply powerful and moving. The show really hit the heights with the back to back punch of "Wolves" and Los Angeles". Wonderful stuff!

Set List
Wish I Was In England?
It's Hard To Be Humble (When You're From Alabama)
Nothing Was Stolen (Love Me Foolishly)
We'll Be Here Soon
The Mermaid Parade
It's Not Supposed To Be That Way
Wolves
Los Angeles
At Death, A Proclamation

Last, but not least were the one and only The Flaming Lips. We actually we would miss the first part of their set after a clash with The National. But some sort of technical/equipment delay meant that we caught the whole set. Impossible to describe, I will somehow try. Band entrance through a projected vagina, singer in a bubble, confetti, balloons, confetti, balloons, dancers, giant hands, lasers. Well, you get the picture. A show like this is actually impossible to jam into a festival set. There is too much, too little time. Perhaps they should cut a little of the pyrotechnics and add a few more songs. But we got "Yoshimi", we sang, we cried. Everyone should have a little Lips in their life.

Set List
Sweet Leaf
She Don't Use Jelly
The Yeah Yeah Yeah Song
Is David Bowie Dying?
Yoshimi Battles The Pink Robots Pt. 1
See The Leaves
Do You Realize??

The Gate

2011-11-12T00:39:00.001+11:00

For a while now the suburbs of Northern Sydney have been treated to small and intimate shows showcasing some of the best musical talent that Australia has to offer. The Gate is a not-for-profit initiative that started with a backyard show in Ryde in July 2010 and has been going strong since. Started by all round good guy Joe Hardy, the venture debuted in a new space Friday night in a warehouse in Artarmon. The new space provides for an environment that can sustain bands regularly without bothering neighbours with that pesky noise problem. The space holds about 120 people and they sure received value for money on Friday night.

First there was singer/songwriter N. Martin who charmed with his melodic tunes on an acoustic guitar. His original tunes were great, but he also threw in some covers by Fleetwood Mac and The Beatles. Second up were local heroes Valar, a five piece that were eclectic and varied in musical styles and influences. Armed with interesting times signatures and disarming melodies, they thoroughly impressed. It was possible to hear anything from Coltrane to Radiohead in their music. Next up were the truly great Charge Group. This was my third time seeing them this year and they seem to get better and better. Whether it is great older tunes like "Lunar Module" or new stormers like "Run" they take charge of the stage and own it. They are truly an incredible band who hopefully are destined for bigger times. Can't wait for album number two in early 2012.

Unfortunately we didn't stay for headliner Aleks & the Ramps. A combination of a big week, travel home and a big weekend coming up meant that we decided to make an early exit. From past experience I know this band is great though and I eagerly await their soon to be released second album. So, it was a great night. There is something truly rewarding witnessing a DIY, hand made night. A night about the music and not the pyrotechnics. A night run on passion, dedication and energy. And I must say despite the homegrown surroundings, the set up was very professional. The sound was a perfect mix with clarity and definition. Would definitely put some bigger venues to shame.
So, if in the future you are looking for a night of cutting edge music without paying a lot of money check out a night with The Gate.

Craig Finn Goes Solo

2011-11-08T10:38:00.000+11:00

January 24 will see the debut solo release from Hold Steady frontman Craig Finn. Vagrant Records will have the honours of releasing the 11 track opus.

Some words from the man himself-
"In July 2011, I went to Austin, Texas to make a record. The Hold Steady was on a four month break, and I wanted to try something a little different. Earlier in the year, I had written a bunch of songs that were outside of the norm for The Hold Steady, a little quieter and perhaps more narrative. I also wanted to gain some experience and insight into the process of making a record by working with new people." "I'm calling this record “Clear Heart Full Eyes”. It's a juxtaposed reference to Friday Night Lights, a TV show that excited and moved me and also happened in Texas. Further, “Clear Heart” signifies honesty and transparency, and “Full Eyes” suggests experience. Thus, it's about being optimistic and open without succumbing to the weariness or doubt that comes with age and experience. To me, that is what it's all about."

Clear Heart Full Eyes Track Listing
1 Apollo Bay
2 When No One’s Watching
3 No Future
4 New Friend Jesus
5 Jackson
6 Terrified Eyes
7 Western Pier
8 Honolulu Blues
9 Rented Room
10 Balcony
11 Not Much Left Of Us

It's Real-Real Estate

2011-11-05T14:28:00.000+11:00

Undeniably catchy and pretty damn cute. From the wonderful new album from Real Estate.

Rows Of Houses-Dan Mangan

2011-10-30T19:21:00.000+11:00

Currently in love with the latest album from Canadian singer Dan Mangan. "Oh Fortune" is raw, emotional, melodic and quite stunning in parts. Here is a video for one of the choice tracks in "Rows Of House". Hope you enjoy!

New Album From Islands Coming In 2012

2011-10-28T10:03:00.001+11:00

February 12 will see a new album released from Nick Thorburn's Islands. "A Sleep & A Forgetting" will be released by ANTI- and contains 11 tracks. I absolutely loved the first two albums from Islands, but the last one was a disappointment, so here's hoping this one is a success.

A Sleep & A Forgetting Track Listing
1 In A Dream It Seemed Real
2 This Is Not A Song
3 Never Go Solo
4 No Crying
5 Hallways
6 Can’t Feel My Face
7 Lonely Love
8 Oh Maria
9 Cold Again
10 Don’t I Love You
11 Same Thing

Lonely Boy-The Black Keys

2011-10-27T15:53:00.001+11:00

"Lonely Boy", from their upcoming new album in "El Camino".

Feist Black Cab Sessions

2011-10-22T09:31:00.001+11:00

Feist from Black Cab Sessions on Vimeo.

Sublime!

Okkervil River @ Metro Theatre

2011-10-19T22:23:00.000+11:00

There is a good chance that Tuesday night at the Metro played host to the gig of 2011. I have seen some great shows this year, but this will be almost impossible to beat for passion, energy and excitement. Bruised glory, ragged joy and ecstatic delight. A band at the peak of its powers. A band for everyone. Well, for everyone who can appreciate great, great, music. Ladies and gentlemen, I give you Okkervil River.

This was my sixth time seeing this mighty fine band and they seem to be getting better. They are certainly rocking the foundations. For this showed truly rocked, in every sense of the word. It was passion overflow from start to finish. There were no flat spots either. It was purely great from start to finish. The herky jerk rhythms of "Wake And Be Fine" opened the night and it was most certainly a great way to start. In fact, all the songs played from their latest album were sublime last night. "The Valley" was a monstrous thunderclap of a song, whilst "Rider" was momentous and grand. But I also found songs like "Piratess" and "Your Past Life as a Blast" were much better live than on record. They were both fun. Of course a band like Okkervil River has a great reservoir of songs to draw on and so they did. Songs like "For Real" and "Black" went down a treat as did the burning beauty of "A Girl In Port". But it was "No Key, No Plam" that stole the show. For this song Will Sheff slowed it down to a slow whisper, with only Patrick Pestorius joining him on stage. It was a starkly beautiful rendition of an already beautiful song. Sublime. There was so much more though. "Our Live Is Not A Movie Or Maybe" was a rollicking end to the main set and then the encore was greatness itself. A banjo intro lit up the melodic beauty of "Lost Coastlines", before "Westfall" took us back to where it all began. Then "Unless It's Kicks" closed the memorable night with appropriate joy and power. Wow! What a band to behold. They were all great, but special mention should be made to new drummer Cully Symington who pounded the skins with immense power and Lauren Gurgiolo who has grown into a confident and commanding guitar player in her relatively short time in the band. The band was really rocking it too, with many songs extended and drawn out to maximum effect. Of course the main man is the incomparable Will Sheff. He is a huge buzzsaw of energy on stage. Singing and playing with gigantic passion and heart he embodies the live experience. He truly is one of the great singers and songwriters of our time. A night to remember. For sure.

Set List
Wake And Be Fine
For Real
Rider
Black
Piratess
A Girl In Port
Song Of Our So-Called Friend
We Need A Myth
The Valley
No Key, No Plan
So Come Back, I Am Waiting
John Allyn Smith Sails
Your Past Life as a Blast
Our Live Is Not A Movie Or Maybe
Lost Coastlines

The Rise
Westfall
Unless It's Kicks

Will Sheff @ Toff In Town

2011-10-17T23:12:00.000+11:00

About two months ago we discovered that Okkervil River were going to be playing the Melbourne Festival. Great! Here comes a Sydney sideshow. But wait, there was more. Lead singer and songwriter Will Sheff would be playing a sideshow. Plane tickets and hotel rooms were booked and we counted down the days. So, last night, Sunday night was the night. After a great weekend in Melbourne, we paid our first visit to the Toff in Town (great venue, btw) and for over an hour we were bewildered, enraptured and enriched by the bespectacled genius of Will Sheff.

But what would be play? Would be choose songs that the band doesn't play? Would be give us some older gems? Would he attack the new songs? Would he have any one play alongside him? Well, firstly he did fly solo. On his trusty acoustic, with two songs on piano. Plus the closing number on electric. As for the set list it was a combination of new and old and a few lesser played tunes thrown in to delight the captive audience. So many highlights, but these ones especially stood out. A delectable "A King and a Queen", an emotion charged "A Stone", the impossibly great "Red" and a powerhouse performance of "The President's Dead". He also tried his hand at big band sound tunes like "Unless It's Kicks" and "The Valley" (with iPod backing). They both worked very well indeed. But it was the main set closer "For Real" that stole the show. Hauntingly played out on piano, it was sheer power and dripped with emotion. An encore allowed us to show our well found appreciation for the night we had enjoyed. For Mr Sheff is a unique and talented man. A great writer. A great singer. A great.

Set List
Lay Of The Last Survivor
Plus Ones
A King and a Queen
Happy Hearts
Red
Your Past Life As a Blast
Wake and Be Fine
The President's Dead
I Guess We Lost
A Stone
Unless It's Kicks
The Valley
For Real

Love To A Monster
Our Live Is Not A Movie Or Maybe

Charge Group @ Goodgod

2011-10-14T13:13:00.002+11:00

Well, what a few great days of Australian music I have enjoyed recently. Firstly it was the always wonderful Dead Letter Chorus at the FBI Social night, followed by the incredible The Paper Scissors at the very same venue. Well, now I need a new batch of superlatives and adjectives. For Thursday night I saw the great, and I don't use the term lightly, Charge Group at Goodgod. I saw them earlier in the year previewing new songs from their soon to be released (March 2012) album and they were great. Well last night it was more of the same. The night actually served as the release night of their new EP (two songs will be on the new album, plus a bunch of remixes) and they proved yet again that they are nearly untouchable on the Australian music scene.

Why? Well, the songs are superlative. A potent mix of dramatic power and sublime beauty. A great rhythm section provides the bed rock for the melody and grace of the violin of Jason Tampake. Then you have the front man in Matt Blackman. His voice and guitar can convey equal parts of gut wrenching emotion. It's a heady mix. Last night the set featured classics from their debut album and also songs from the upcoming new one. I was a little disappointed that they didn't play the majestic "Vice'd", but great renditions of "Lullaby For The Apocalypse" and "Lunar Module" more than made up for its absence. Of the new songs, "Run" was supercharged glory, but "The Gold Is Gone" was probably my favourite. A great song. A great night actually. It was my first time to the venue and it won't be my last. The place has a lot of character and personality. Great little bar area and then the room out the back for bands. Will be going back there for sure. I also caught support act Cuba Is Japan. They feature former Baseball front man Cam Potts on drums and were wickedly good. A huge dose of power and beauty was on display there too.

Set List
Intro
New Song?
Lullaby For The Apocalypse
Search Party
Broken Sunlight
Instrumental
The Gold Is Gone
Speakeasy Death Song
Lunar Module
Run

The Black Keys Get El Camino

2011-10-12T12:14:00.001+11:00

December 6. The Black Keys. New album. Be there.

El Camino Track Listing
1 Lonely Boy
2 Dead and Gone
3 Gold on the Ceiling
4 Little Black Submarines
5 Money Maker
6 Run Right Back
7 Sister
8 Hell of a Season
9 Stop Stop
10 Nova Baby
11 Mind Eraser

2012 St Jerome's Laneway Festival Announcement

2011-10-10T13:25:00.003+11:00

Well folks, it's here. At last. The acts for the 2012 St Jerome's Laneway Festival have been announced. I think it's pretty damn good. No act of the stature of Menomena or Deerhunter as in 2011, but plenty of first time visitors with recently acclaimed albums in hand. Maybe it's a tad heavy on the chillwave vibe, but there are plenty I am excited to check out.

Laneway Festival Lineup
Feist (except Adelaide)
M83
The Horrors
The Panics
Portugal. The Man.
Active Child
Anna Calvi
Austra
Bullion
Chairlift (Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne only)
Cults
The Drums
DZ Deathrays
EMA
Geoffry O’Connor
Girls
Givers (Sydney, Melbourne only)
Laura Marling
Oneman
The Pains of Being Pure at Heart
Pajama Club
SBTRKT (live)
Toro Y Moi
Glasser
Husky (Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne only)
John Talabot
Jonti
Total Control
Twin Shadow
Washed Out
WU LYF
Yuck

The Paper Scissors @ Kings Cross Hotel

2011-10-09T22:50:00.001+11:00

In some perfect world The Paper Scissors would be big. Much, much bigger then they are now. Why? Well, they are killer live and have a great arsenal of roaring songs. But they are not. Unfortunately. Saturday night they played to a small crowd at the FBI Social room at Kings Cross Hotel. As singer Jai Pyne put it, "a great room swimming in a sea of shit". They were great and greater. Which isn't surprising when you consider that they are drawing their set from an album I consider to be the finest released in Australia this year in "In Loving Memory". It's an album that is a dramatic exercise in soulful rock.

They actually opened with a new song that sounded pretty great as it was. "Lung Sum" followed and its delectable swagger filled the small room. Many highlights flowed along soon after, especially the thunderous "Taller Than You Then", the sublimely groovy "Dozens" and the deep soul of "Over There". They also threw in a crowd pleasing oldie in "Yamanote Line". I would say though it was confounding that the band had to finish abruptly at midnight. They were some 20 minutes late to start but I thought that the Kings Cross area would be certainly one that wouldn't be concerned with noise issues. Anyway, it did mean a somewhat short set. One though filled with power and grace. Thanks to the blockbusting voice of Jai Pine and the unbelievably tight rhythm section of Xavier Naughton and Ivan Lisyak. Next time you are searching the gig guide, make sure you underline the name of The Paper Scissors.

Set List
New Song?
Lung Sum
Taller Than You Then
Over There
Dozens
Soft Pig
Yamanote Line
Drunk Swim
Disco Connect

Your Past Life As A Blast-Okkervil River

2011-10-08T16:22:00.001+11:00

Okkervil River - Your Past Life As a Blast from Secretly Jag on Vimeo.

Greatness indeed! Seeing them next week!

Norman

2011-10-05T21:41:00.001+11:00

I really look forward to seeing this film. "Norman", directed by Jonathan Segal. The film score was created by the great Andrew Bird. The song in the trailer is "Rabid Bits Of Time" by Chad VanGaalen.

Siskiyou

2011-10-03T22:34:00.002+11:00

Siskiyou are from Canada. Well, that's a pretty good start in itself. But there's more. They are just about to release their second album in "Keep Away The Dead". It all started with Colin Huebert after he left Great Lake Swimmers in 2008. A self titled debut followed in 2010 and then the band slowly expanded to four. Now on October we welcome the new album on Constellation Records. It has been described as a 'rural gothic novella'. Have a listen to the album track below and tell me you're not impressed.

MP3: Twigs and Stones

Moneyball

2011-09-28T22:09:00.000+10:00

Can't wait for this.
Baseball!
Philip Seymour Hoffman!
Brad Pitt!
Bennett Miller!
Aaron Sorkin!

Gold Leaves

2011-09-27T15:08:00.001+10:00

Gold Leaves recently came to my attention and I am most certainly happy about this. Gold Leaves is the new project of Grant Olsen (Arthur & Yu). "The Ornament" is the first full length album that he has released under this name. Containing 9 tracks, the album is full of shimmering melodies and well thought out pop sensibilities. It was recorded and co-produced and recorded by Jason Quever (Papercuts). Please listen to a stand out cut from the album, out now on Hardly Art.

MP3: Cruel/Kind

Sebadoh @ Metro Theatre

2011-09-22T21:22:00.001+10:00

Sebadoh. The very word conjures up images of 90s rock greatness. Guitars crunching and melodies soaring. Introspection and passion in one deadly mix. They sailed under the radar, but those in the know remembered just how great they were. So after a long hiatus they have returned. To the stages of the world. Wednesday night they landed back in Sydney at the Metro Theatre. They gave us close to two hours of rocking swagger and aggression. Aggression laced with melancholic melody.

Unfortunately the night fell just short of greatness because of, to my ears, a poor sound mix. At first the guitars seemed just crunchy, but as the night wore on it became apparent that the lead guitar was way too loud and the vocals a little buried. Maybe this was a deliberate mix by the band, but I would have preferred a little more clarity and crispness to let the songs shine. For these songs are truly great and to that point I was able to enjoy the night. Especially the Barlow numbers. When Jason Loewenstein took the mic it became a little too much of a screamathon. Especially when played back to back. Having said that I did enjoy songs like "Careful" and the encore number "Not Too Amused". But Lou shined, despite the sound, on so many great tunes. "On Fire" was deliberate and well paced. "Skull" was pure melodic greatness, whilst tunes like "Rebound" and "Magnet's Coil" rollicked along with great alacrity. "Soul And Fire" was also welcomed with open arms, as was the stunning "Not A Friend", one of my all time favourite Sebadoh numbers. As you can see "Bakesale" was given a heavy portion of the night, with many "Harmacy" songs also joining the party. We also gratefully heard some older songs, including a few from the classic album "Bubble And Scrape". The main set closed with the sublime "Brand New Love", a song of immense heart and beauty. So, all in all, it was a great night to trip down memory lane. I certainly enjoyed hearing these amazing songs brought to life once again. I just wish the aural experience had been a better one.

Set List
On Fire
Too Pure
Skull
Ocean
Rebound
Magnet's Coil
Shit Soup
Mind Reader
Got It
Love To Fight
Drag Down
Dreams
The Freed Pig
License To Confuse
Sister
Drama Mine
Crystal Gypsy
Careful
Bird In The Hand
Soul And Fire
Two Years Two Days
Beauty Of The Ride
Not A Friend
Forced Love
Together Or Alone
Sixteen
New Worship
Brand New Love

Not Too Amused
Willing To Wait

Honey Bunny-Girls

2011-09-21T07:27:00.001+10:00

I just can't get this song out of my head!

Quail and Dumplings-Bonnie 'Prince' Billy

2011-09-17T12:10:00.001+10:00

Recently I posted about the upcoming new album from the incomparable Bonnie 'Prince' Billy. Now we have a video of a cut from the album. Naturally, it's majestic.

Pree

2011-09-15T14:27:00.001+10:00

A couple of years ago Pree released an EP of stunning beauty. "A Chopping Block" was 5 tracks of bliss. Now, in 2011, we see the upcoming release of their debut full length album. "Folly" will be released on October 18 on Paper Garden Records. Pree was originally the solo project of May Tabol (Le Loup), but the band has since fleshed out to 4 members. Please have a listen to a track from their upcoming album.

Pree - Lemon Tree by Paper Garden Records

New Blackout Beach

2011-09-13T15:06:00.002+10:00

Blackout Beach will return in November with a new album. November 15 to be precise. On Dead Oceans. The album is called "Fuck Death".
Carey Mercer explains.

"Fuck Death is a record named after a Leon Golub painting, an American painter I admire very much. The record is an attempt to make something about Beauty and War. I have very little experience with these concepts. This is not a political record, though I suspect those will be coming soon enough. It took three years to make, which, I admit, is a long time to make a record."

Mercer recorded the entire album by himself.
Here is a song from the album.

MP3: Beautiful Burning Desire

Be Comfortable, Creature-Explosions In The Sky

2011-09-10T11:07:00.002+10:00

Be Comfortable, Creature from Explosions in the Sky on Vimeo.

Explosions in the Sky! Enough said.

New Album Coming From Bonnie 'Prince' Billy

2011-09-07T07:21:00.000+10:00

He is Bonnie 'Prince' Billy and he is a genius. October 4 will see him release a new album on Drag City. "Wolfroy Goes To Town" will contain 10 tracks of pure bliss. Can't wait!

Wolfroy Goes To Town Track Listing
1 No Match
2 New Whaling
3 Time To Be Clear
4 New Tibet
5 Black Captain
6 Cows
7 There Will Be Spring
8 Quail And Dumplings
9 We Are Unhappy
10 Night Noises

New Video From Charge Group

2011-09-03T11:40:00.002+10:00

CHARGE GROUP 'Run' (Official music video) from Microphone & Loudspeaker on Vimeo.

Please enjoy the brand new video from the great Charge Group. It's called 'Run' and is the first single to be lifted from their upcoming second album, a self titled effort that will be released in the early parts of 2012. The video stars and was directed by Brendan Cowell. It also features dancing by the Suara Indonesian dance group!

Explosions In The Sky Return To Australia

2011-09-01T13:58:00.003+10:00

That sentence of itself is enough to bring luminescent contentment to this writer. The Austin, Texas quartet are making their long awaited return to these shores, via their appearance at the Meredith Music Festival. Now, we have sideshows and dates to make us SO happy.

Explosions In The Sky Tour Dates

December 8-Forum Theatre, Melbourne

December 11-The Metro, Sydney

December 13, The Hi Fi, Brisbane

Love The Way You Walk Away-Blitzen Trapper

2011-08-31T07:33:00.001+10:00

Brilliant new slice of Americana from the new album from Blitzen Trapper.

Come To The City-The War On Drugs

2011-08-24T23:58:00.003+10:00

I'll get straight to the point. The new album from The War On Drugs, "Slave Ambient", is amazingly good. I stone cold modern classic. Here is a great new video for one of the stand out tracks in "Come To The City". Just listen to that drumming!

Organ Music Not Vibraphone Like I'd Hoped-Moonface

2011-08-21T13:17:00.002+10:00

It's there in the title. It is what it is and yet it's not. It's so much more. Spencer Krug (as Moonface) has crafted a gem of an album, one built on constant lines and pulsing builds. It all seems so simple, yet it unfolds and explodes with never ending delight. This 5 song cycle is proof yet again, if it was ever needed, that there are few musicians or songwriters on this very earth that can touch the talents that Spencer Krug possesses.

"Organ Music Not Vibraphone Like I'd Hoped" was singularly written and recorded by Krug, with the mixing done by Jace Lasek (The Besnard Lakes) at his Breakglass Studios in Montreal. The vocals are all Krug's, bar for help from Camilla Wynne Ingr on "Fast Peter". All five songs are between 6 and 8 minutes long, they are patient songs with slow build ups and long burning fuses. They are hypnotic and even somewhat drone like in parts. But they are also melodic and finely tuned. Like all Krug compositions there is an underlying darker tone and also a cryptic nature. There is poetry and beauty, even if it is melancholy and slightly disturbed. But hey, that's probably the best kind. Opening song "Return To The Violence Of The Ocean Floor" is a trembling, quivering, stalking beast of a song. Little organ flourishes keep raising the stakes as Spencer sings of his crumbling and disappearing spirit. The theme of aquatics resumes in "Whale Song (Song Instead Of A Kiss), an ominous tune that begins darkly and gets darker. The lyrics are dark as well, but truly poetic. "And I could see you've made a garden from the flowers growing out of my remains". When the organ goes into overdrive at around the 6 minute mark my heart skips a beat. Middle song "Fast Peter" is not only the most pop friendly song on the album it is also the least cryptic lyrically. It apparently was taken directly from a conversation Spencer had with a friend named Peter who was leaving town to pursue the girl he loves. It's basically a love story and a true one at that. "Shit-Hawk In The Snow" ups the tempo with a jet propelled melodic line that is both trance like and compelling. "Watching seagulls in the blizzard makes me see how much I miss her". We close with "Loose Heart=Loose Plan", a slow combustible song that establishes a groove and doesn't let go until the end. This is quite simply, a great record. All five songs are compelling and deserve your undivided attention. There is heart and beauty here. I advise you to explore.

Australian Goodness

2011-08-20T09:49:00.003+10:00

Last month saw the release of "Rain On The Humming Wire", the new album from The Panics. I'm still digesting it and getting to know it better, but I absolutely love the opening track.
"Majesty" is aptly titled, a slice of greatness.

Next week sees the release of "Yearlings", album number two from Sydney's Dead Letter Chorus. Here is their brand new single and video for "All Mine". It's wonderful.

Taller Than You Then-The Paper Scissors

2011-08-18T21:54:00.002+10:00

OK, right now, without doubt my favourite Australian album of 2011 is "In Loving Memory" by Sydney's very wonderful The Paper Scissors. It's an exciting, revelatory, pulsating jumble of a record. It rocks and it fuses soul and funk with great creativity. Here is a live version of one of the stand out tracks from the album. "Taller Than You Then", a cranking number from a great album. I highly recommend you buy this record!

So American-Portugal. The Man

2011-08-17T22:07:00.001+10:00

I'm really enjoying the brand new album from Portugal. The Man. "In The Mountain In The Cloud" is groovy and felicious. Here is an acoustic version of the wonderful opening track in "So American". Please enjoy!

New Song From Feist

2011-08-13T09:54:00.003+10:00

It's been a while coming. Four years really. But October 4 will see the release of "Metals", the new album from Feist. Today featured the premiere of the first song from the album. "How Come You Never Go There". It's delicious!
How Come You Never Go There by Feist

I Guess We Lost-Okkervil River

2011-08-12T23:07:00.002+10:00

Far From Home Ep#17 Okkervil River "I Guess We Lost" from Into The Woods on Vimeo.

The very wonderful, and very busy, Okkervil River, peforming "I Guess We Lost" in Portland in June. Very excited to see them again in October!

Vomit-Girls

2011-08-10T07:21:00.001+10:00

I haven't been a big fan of Girls in the past, but I am really enjoying this great song off their forthcoming album.

Dead Letter Chorus News (Album and Tour Dates)

2011-08-06T10:56:00.002+10:00

It's not far away now peoples. Sydney's Dead Letter Chorus have album number two due for release this month. August 26 to be exact. "Yearlings" was recorded over 8 months beginning in May 2010 with Canadian producer Les Cooper. You have probably already heard the singles released over the preceding months in "Covered By Snow", "Run Wild" (the one on the Toyota ads) and "Yellow House". All bouncing with melody and passion. Soon now you will have the album. I have been listening to the album recently and it's pretty great. I particularly love the the two closing tracks on the record. Both brimming with soul and fire. Further to that, the band have announced some tour dates to help you enjoy it in the live arena. I strongly recommend you see them live. They are always great!

Yearlings Track Listing
1 Covered By Snow
2 All Mine
3 Run Wild
4 I Belong To You
5 Underdog
6 Yellow House
7 The Changing Tides
8 Gently Weeping
9 The Poet and the Thief
10 Edge of Town

Tour Dates
September 16, Speakeasy, Perth
September 30, Northcote Social Club, Melbourne
October 1, Kings X Cross Hotel, Sydney
October 6, Old Museum, Brisbane

Spacetime-Gardens & Villa

2011-08-05T07:36:00.003+10:00

"Spacetime" by Gardens & Villa from Secretly Jag on Vimeo.

I'm really enjoying the debut self titled album from Gardens & Villa. Here is a video from the album for the song "Spacetime".

Grouplove @ Oxford Art Factory

2011-08-03T23:43:00.004+10:00

Fun with a capital F! That was Wednesday night at the Oxford Art Factory. Los Angeles 5 piece Grouplove were on their maiden voyage to Australia. It was a short trip and this was their last night. But they made the most of it. A hour of power packed pop, enjoyed by all and seemingly the very band itself. They were smiling and laughing, bouncing and dancing through out. Totally appreciative of the rapturous reception they were receiving. The band has only one record out, a 5 song EP they released last year. But their debut album "Never Trust A Happy Song" is due out in September. So they gave us a taste of both and it tasted so good.

Grouplove write melodic songs filled with bounce and charisma. Their music is happy but not light. It is not terribly complicated, but it is spot on through out. I could compare them to Cloud Control, but with a lot more energy and variety. So, yes better. Boy do they have energy. And spirit. Lead singer Christian Zucconi is a pulsing effort in motion, whilst keyboardist Hannah Hooper is shiny and happy to the extreme. For a young band they are very tight and muscular. Highlights were the delectable "Naked Kids" and new robust songs in "Itchin' on a Photograph" and "Spun". Of course the major stand out was the encore song, the 'hit'. "Colours" is a furious whirlwind of a song. Its taut rhythm and driving melody blowing up the venue. I look forward to the new album and their future career. Burning brightly.

Set List
Don't Say Oh Well
Lovely Cup
Itchin' on a Photograph
Love Will Save Your Soul
Gold Coast
Naked Kids
Spun
Betty's a Bombshell
Slow
Tongue Tied

Colours

Support was provided by another California five piece. Young the Giant. I didn't have big expectations, but they were actually very enjoyable. Good melodies and a similar level of enjoyable energy. Good stuff.

Roadside Graves

2011-08-02T19:43:00.002+10:00

Roadside Graves are from New Jersey. Their music feeds the soul. Recently Autumn Tone released album number 4 from the band in the shape of "We Can Take Care Of Ourselves". It was inspired by S.E. Hinton's "The Outsiders" and was recorded in Brooklyn and New Jersey. It is a real touchstone of American soulful rock. Pure and honest.
Please enjoy a track from the album.

MP3: Double Feature-Roadside Graves

Tongue Tied-Grouplove

2011-07-29T07:20:00.003+10:00

You’re watching Tongue Tied. See the Web's top videos on AOL Video

Next week we are seeing Grouplove at the Oxford Art Factory. Very excited about that! On September 13 the band will release their debut album in "Never Trust a Happy Song". Here now is a brand new song and video from the album. Enjoy!

Modest Mouse @ Enmore Theatre

2011-07-26T00:03:00.006+10:00

Isaac Brock is an angry man! Fierce. Obstinate. Passionate. Sometimes even boorish. He fronts a band named Modest Mouse. Perhaps you have heard of them, they are pretty good. Strike that, they are great. Awesome even. Monday night they played the Enmore Theatre. Their third visit to Sydney. I hope they keep coming back. They tore the place apart in a ferocious, if somewhat short, set. Isaac Brock had the banjo in hand for the first song, "Satin In A Coffin" and it fairly tore a hole in the roof. Great start to a great show.

The highlight probably came however with the arrival of the second song. "The View" was fifty different types of bouncing melody. Smiles everywhere. Then "Dramamine" slew us. This classic number from the first album was extended into a heavy 10 minute jam. They did the same with "I Came As a Rat", both songs showing off the heavy stylings of the band. Which were very fine. Two drummers were explosive and intense, whilst the guitar work was exemplary. It was the first time Australia has seen Jim Fairchild, ex Grandaddy, since he replaced Johnny Marr and Jamey Robinson (Man Man) was filling in on bass for Eric Judy. I believe Eric wasn't on tour because he wanted to spend more time with his son. Of course the main axe wielder is Mr Brock. His signature riffs are played with ferocity and intent, ringing through the venue. This was ably demonstrated on monster songs like "King Rat" and "The Whale Song". He can also display a gentler side on songs like "Blame It On the Tetons" and the encore opener "Bukowski". Brock is a magnetic stage presence. He goes from angry to happy in the blink of an eye. Maniacally staring into space and sucking on cigarettes are all part of his night. He didn't say much, well except for a ten minute monologue on his phobia of water disappearing and crummy summers in Portland and the lowlife (his words) that inhabit his local park. But he doesn't have to. He just needs to bring the songs. The songs have bewildered and assaulted us for over a decade.

Set List
Satin In A Coffin
The View
Dramamine
Dashboard
Fire It Up
I Came As A Rat
Paper Thin Walls
Blame It On The Tetons
Dance Hall
King Rat
Gravity Rides Everything
Poison The Well
Float On

Bukowski
The Whale Song
Wild Packs Of Family Dogs

Harvest-A Civilised Gathering

2011-07-24T15:06:00.003+10:00

A new festival for Australia was announced on Friday and it's very exciting. The line-up is huge! Harvest will take place in November in Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane only. One day in each city. There are more acts to be announced, but it's a pretty good start!

Line-up
The Flaming Lips
Portishead
Bright Eyes
The National
Mercury Rev
Hypnotic Brass Ensemble
Family Stone
Holy Fuck
Death In Vegas
The Walkmen
Dappled Cities
This Town Needs Guns
Foxy Shazam
PVT
The Holidays
Phosphorescent
Kormac’s Big Band

12 November, Werribee Park, Melbourne
13 November, Parramatta Park, Sydney
19 November, Botanical Gardens, Brisbane

Tickets go on sale August 4

Antiques

2011-07-23T12:22:00.005+10:00

James at Pop Headwound always has good music to recommend. Recently he wrote about Antiques and I am very glad he did. I have been listening to their recently released album "JWNS" and it is pretty damn great. From what I can gather the band has been around for the best part of a decade, under different names and members, releasing 4 albums. Now in June, 2011 they release "JWNS". I could describe it as a cosmic collision of Teenage Fanclub and Guided By Voices to give you some idea. It's crunchy, slightly lo-fi and incredibly melodic. The songs are both fun and full of intent and meaning.

If you go here, you can actually download the album for free. Or you can order the CD if you wish to own a physical copy. Highly recommended.

MP3: ETC

New Richmond Fontaine Album Coming

2011-07-19T07:54:00.003+10:00

Which is great news! I don't have many other details, except that the album will be released sometime in September. But I have a track from the album that is pretty damn great!
TA708 Richmond Fontaine - Lost in the Trees by Trash Aesthetics

American Goldwing-It's Coming!

2011-07-14T19:33:00.004+10:00

More joy! Blitzen Trapper will be releasing their newest album on Sub Pop on September 13. "American Goldwing" is album number 6 and singer Eric Earley explains "It’s us letting our loves, our early influences hang out for all to see. Entering into the sounds we grew up with, the hard guitar rock and country picking of our younger years mixes with glimmers of our usual space-aging technology and pawn shop Casio aplomb."

American Goldwing Track Listing
1 Might Find It Cheap
2 Fletcher
3 Love the Way You Walk Away
4 Your Crying Eyes
5 My Home Town
6 Girl In a Coat
7 American Goldwing
8 Astronaut
9 Taking It Easy Too Long
10 Street Fighting Sun
11 Stranger In a Strange Land

New Megafaun Album Due In September

2011-07-12T21:30:00.002+10:00

Megafaun from Hometapes on Vimeo.

Great News! The wonderful Megafaun will be releasing a new album on Hometapes on September 20. The album, self titled, was recorded in rural North Carolina, with some help from Balinese field recordings. Excited!

Megafaun Track Listing
1 Real Slow
2 These Words
3 Get Right
4 Hope You Know
5 Isadora
6 Second Friend
7 Resurrection
8 Kill The Horns
9 Scorned
10 Serene Return
11 You Are The Light
12 State/Meant
13 postscript
14 Everything

Megafaun "These Words" by Hometapes

2011 (A Review So Far)

2011-07-09T11:09:00.010+10:00

Each year brings expectation. Hope. Hope that new experiences will bring new delight. Sometimes there will be disappointment, sometimes joy. There will be new discoveries and the return of old friends. So what has 2011 delivered. Plenty I would think. Plenty to absorb and digest. Sometimes too much it would seem. So this list is somewhat incomplete. Albums by the following artists are not included here. Handsome Furs, Woods, Gillian Welch, Shabazz Palaces, WU LYF. All have produced work that I have listened to and enjoyed, but to be perfectly honest I haven't had the time to take them in completely. Give them their full deserved attention. No doubt, most of these (especially Handsome Furs), will make their make onto my end of year list. Given time. Time, oh time. Where does it go? I sometimes feel that the year is whizzing past me and I don't have the time to listen to all the new music produced, let alone write about it. Still there has been plenty to enjoy. Then, there is the live scene. I was thrilled by the first time visit of Menomena, charmed by the subtlety of The Books, bewildered by the heavenly Sufjan Stevens, blown away by the incredible The National and depth charged by the explosive Grinderman.
So yeah, it's all been pretty good, hey?

Top Ten Albums of 2011 (So Far)
1-Helplessness Blues-Fleet Foxes
No second album blues here. Just sublime and incredibly beautiful music. In fact, I think they have bettered their astounding debut. Joyous.

2-S/T II:The Cosmic Birth and Journey of Shinju TNT-Akron/Family
A feast, a cornucopia. A smorgasbord of unending delight. This three piece continue to serve up music that is directly emotional and creative.

3-Take Care, Take Care, Take Care-Explosions in the Sky
They return again. Nothing too much changes.. Only one constant. Music that is serene and emotional. Superb and unique. Don't ever change.

4-Burst Apart-The Antlers
2011 has seen me come to love this band. I love this album too. Hospice was great and this is just as good. Searing and intense.

5-I Am Very Far-Okkervil River
A return to the more directly emotional for this band. It's full on though. Lyrically and musically. A thunderstorm of sounds of ideas.

6-Bon Iver-Bon Iver
This could rise in time as I am still getting to know the beauty of Justin Vernon and his music. I think an even better effort then his stellar debut.

7-No Color-The Dodos
If their previous album was a slight letdown, this is pretty damn fine. Great melodies, great drumming add up to a musical feast.

8-Tomboy-Panda Bear
We waited a long time seemingly. But it was worth it. Even though it was near impossible to top Person Pitch, Noah has given us plenty to like here.

9-Degeneration Street-The Dears
I really don't understand the negative reviews. Sure, it's bombastic, over the top. But that's why I love it. The songs are super catchy as well.

10-Smoke Ring For My Halo-Kurt Vile
Kurt Vile has made his best album yet. An intoxicating, unique blend of sounds of vocals. Shining guitar work makes this a consistent delight.

Honourable Mentions
Apocalypse-Bill Callahan
New History Warfare Vol 2: Judges-Colin Stetson
Celebration,Florida-The Felice Brothers
Departing-The Rural Alberta Advantage
I Want That You Are Always Happy-The Middle East
Strange Hearts-Secret Cities
Kaputt-Destroyer
The King Is Dead-The Decemberists
Codes And Keys-Death Cab For Cutie
Nine Types Of Light-TV On The Radio
Canary-Southeast Engine
White Wilderness-John Vanderslice
Dye It Blonde-Smith Westerns
Civilian-Wye Oak
Circuital-My Morning Jacket
Outside-O'Death
Tamer Animals-Other Lives
Diaper Island-Chad VanGaalen

Music To Anticipate...
Last Summer-Eleanor Friedberger
In The Mountain In The Cloud-Portugal. The Man
Organ Music Not Vibraphone Like I'd Hoped-Moonface
Out Of Love-Mister Heavenly
Slave Ambient-The War On Drugs
Still Living-Ganglians
Mirror Traffic-Stephen Malkmus and the Jicks
The Rip Tide-Beirut
American Goldwing-Blitzen Trapper
Dreams Come True-CANT
Lenses Alien-Cymbals Eat Guitars
A Creature I Don't Know-Laura Marling
Wild Flag-Wild Flag
Hysterical-Clap Your Hands Say Yeah
Dracula-Nurses
Megafaun-Megafaun
The Whole Love-Wilco
The Year Of Hibernation-Youth Lagoon

The Tree Of Life

2011-07-07T10:22:00.008+10:00

The Tree Of Life is not a film. At least as we know it. It is an experience. A revelation. A cosmic delivery. A hurricane of fresh air in the bloated and tired 21st century. Leave your perceptions at the theatre door and be prepared for the ride of your life. Terrence Malick is the most singular of film makers. He is stunningly ambitious in his efforts to create a vision that is both sublime and moving. He doesn't make many films, but when he does they are well worth the wait.

This wondrous film is set in 1950s Texas, for the most part, and concerns the O'Brien family. The father (Brad Pitt) is stern and authoritarian. The mother (Jessica Chastain) is loving and almost childlike. They have 3 boys, Jack, R.L. and Steve. We see the boys grow from infants to thriving young boys, experiencing the wonder and despair of growing up. Later we flash forward to Jack as a man (Sean Penn), who seemingly lives and works in gleaming towers devoid of soul and hope. The film, in its infancy, also includes a breath taking sequence that attempts to display the creation of life on earth. From micro organisms to dinosaurs! This was brave and could have failed, but it doesn't. Instead it lends weight to the purpose of the film. That is, that we live in a unique and awe inspiring world that is confusing and bewildering from the smallest detail to the largest concept. This film has ambition like few others, if any. It is a meditation, a treatise, almost a sermon on life. It is concerned with the minutia of life and also the enormous complexity. There is barely any plot, let alone narrative. These are trivial matters in the hands of Malick. He wants us to feel. To see. I doubt he wants us to understand. I don't really. But the images, the feelings, the gravity. It is sublime, almost perfect. It is certainly the most beautiful film that I have ever seen. Cinematographer Emmanuel Lubezki captures natural light with inspiring grace. Millions of images tumble into each other, barely living before expiring. They hold our gaze, before we devour the next. The Tree Of Life is also as good a film that I ever seen that captures burgeoning adolescence. It captures the wonder, the exploration, the hurt, the deliberate destruction. We see the man before us, before he grows old and cynical. The Tree Of Life moves slowly, maybe too slowly for some. But it is richly rewarding. It is a kaleidoscope of unparalleled beauty. It is greatness untouched.

America!-Bill Callahan

2011-07-06T22:01:00.000+10:00

Snazzy! The rad new video from Bill Callahan.

Last Known Surroundings-Explosions In The Sky

2011-07-04T13:21:00.000+10:00

Last Known Surroundings from Explosions in the Sky on Vimeo.

Genius!

Calgary-Bon Iver

2011-06-21T22:46:00.000+10:00

Great video! Great song! Great album!

Other Lives

2011-06-16T21:04:00.002+10:00

This is the wonderful video from Other Lives, for their song "For 12", taken from their brand new album in "Tamer Animals". It's a special album, full of hope, beauty and wonder. It follows on from 2009's self titled effort. Which is pretty great as well.

Run-Charge Group

2011-06-13T18:27:00.003+10:00

The wonderful Charge Group have just recently finished mixing their second album, self titled, in New York. A release is imminent, but for now I can share the first single in "Run". It's totally awesome. Please enjoy.

Run by Charge Group

Senator-Stephen Malkmus & The Jicks

2011-06-09T10:43:00.002+10:00

"What the Senator wants is a blow job".

MP3: Senator-Stephen Malkmus & The Jicks

Hospital Ships

2011-06-08T09:24:00.004+10:00

Well this caught me by surprise. Totally! Hospital Ships are releasing a new album today, their second, on Graveface Records. "Lonely Twin" contains 11 tracks and Hospital Ships is the project of Jordan Geiger, the principal member of the now sadly defunct Minus Story. Their first album in "Oh, Ramona" was a quiet delight, full of dripping pop majesty, so I am definitely looking forward to "Lonely Twin".

Lonely Twin Track Listing

1 Love or Death

2 Honey Please

3 Bird in Furs

4 Galaxies

5 Phantom Limb

6 Carry On

7 Anyone Everyone

8 Old Skin

9 Reprise

10 Little Dead Leaf

11 New Life

MP3: Honey Please-Hospital Ships

East Harlem-Beirut

2011-06-05T16:53:00.003+10:00

Beirut - East Harlem by Revolver USA

OK. Here is the brand new single from Beirut. "East Harlem" represents Zach Condon's first output since 2009. Enjoy!

Yellow House-Dead Letter Chorus

2011-06-03T07:39:00.001+10:00

Dead Letter Chorus - Yellow House from DeadLetterChorus on Vimeo.

Sydney's Dead Letter Chorus with their wonderful new single.

Wolf Parade (The Finale?)

2011-06-01T22:03:00.002+10:00

Oh glorious wonder. Oh bittersweet times. The band that defines me is perhaps no more. Wolf Parade played what is perhaps their final show Monday night in Vancouver. They are now on "indefinite hiatus". Onto other things. Maybe one day they will return. Who knows? Here is their final song for now, "Knockin' On Heaven's Door". Glory be!

Dawn Golden And Rosy Cross

2011-05-31T19:04:00.002+10:00

They are not two but one. And that one is Chicago producer Dexter Tortoriello. The project began in Tortoriello's bedroom as an experiment in different recording techniques, and quickly escalated as vocals were added and ideas rounded out. The debut EP, "Blow" was released in April on Mad Decent and it is 6 tracks of sinewy, elastic golden glory. Below is the standout track in "White Sun". Highly recommended.

MP3: White Sun-Dawn Golden and Rosy Cross

Helplessness Blues-Fleet Foxes

2011-05-27T14:20:00.004+10:00

An instant classic. From the very first time that I heard the beautiful strains of the title track some months ago it was pretty obvious that Fleet Foxes were definitely going to deliver the goods on their long anticipated second album. This is a harmonic masterpiece, a treasure trove of soaring moments and delectable melodies. No slump here.

Twelve tracks of gorgeous grace. A dozen deliriously good tunes. It is warm and inviting, blissfully unaware of its inherent greatness. "Montezuma" is a delightful entree, showcasing immediately the rustic ambiance of this Seattle sixtet. Led by the heavenly voice of Robin Pecknold, it is the first step on a sun kissed journey. Guitars trill, voices collide, hearts rest. "Bedouin Dress" and "Sim Sala Bim" keep the mood flowing with unbeatable melodies and deft touches. You could possible say that "Battery Kinzie" is a standout, but this album is so consistently great that there are zero dips of fortune. Only high peaks. It must be said though that although the melodies that abound here are joyous and sunlit, there is a certain pensive and even sombre tone to the album. I wouldn't call it dark, but it has a feeling of despair more seen then on the stupendous self titled debut. I would call it blissful despair. This is best illustrated on the sublime two song centre block. "The Plains/Bitter Dancer" builds ever so slowly with a deliberate and careful pace before blowing out the doors, whilst the title track sounds better with every listen. As Pecknold sings "I was raised up believing I was somehow unique. Like a snowflake distinct among snowflakes, unique in each way you can see. And now after some thinking, I'd say I'd rather be a functioning cog in some great machinery serving something beyond me", you can hear his heart sighing. The transition in this song is breath taking too. A signature moment in 2011. There is plenty more to enjoy though, the delicate "Someone You'd Admire" or the robust and thrusting closer "Grown Ocean" are good places to explore. This is music that harks back to a distant era, but it feels now and ready. The musicianship is expert, the harmonies are divine and I know one thing. It will take something awfully excellent to better this in 2011.

MP3: Grown Ocean-Fleet Foxes

Gillian Welch Announces New Album

2011-05-26T15:48:00.004+10:00

It's been a long time, but it's finally happening. That magnificent vestibule of goodness, Gillian Welch will be releasing a new album on June 28. "The Harrow & The Harvest" was produced by longtime collaborator David Rawlings and will contain 10 golden tracks.

The Harrow & The Harvest Track Listing

1 Scarlet Town

2 Dark Turn Of Mind

3 The Way It Will Be

4 The Way It Goes

5 Tennessee

6 Down Along The Dixie Line

7 Six White Horses

8 Hard Times

9 Silver Dagger

10 The Way The Whole Thing Ends

Malkmus Returns!

2011-05-25T14:29:00.002+10:00

Fact One: Malkmus is a genius. Fact Two: Malkmus makes music. If you combine these two facts, then bliss ensues. So, on August 23 Matador will be releasing "Mirror Traffic", the brand new album from Stephen Malkmus and the Jicks. As an added bonus, the album was produced by Beck Hansen. The new release will also be the last one featuring the skills of drummer Janet Weiss. Stay tuned for more news.

5 X 5 (An Art Event In Canberra)

2011-05-22T20:35:00.013+10:00

Yesterday was a full day. In the morning we attended the Sydney Writers' Festival, where the highlight was a conversation between James Valentine and the multi-talented Brendan Cowell. Cowell has just written his first book, "How It Feels", which was a great read. Full of pain, blood, spit and tears. Their conversation was illuminating and entertaining. Then the girl and I drove to Canberra to attend a small but impressive art event that was known as "5 x 5". It took place in suburban Downer and showcased the work of George Rose, Leah Brideson, Tara Bromham, Ash Peak and Bohie Palecek. Each artist displayed 5 pieces of art, all no bigger then 5 by 5 inches. All the artists are currently studying or have studied at ANU. They designed the show and it was a great success. Hopefully a sign of great things to come. One of the artists, Tara, is actually my sister-in-law and even though I am biased, she is awfully talented. The night was enlivened by open fires, pumpkin soup, mulled wine and a fiddle player from Pennsylvania. It was also very cold.
Below are some more shots of the work on display.

Please find here more info on the artists involved-

George Rose

Tara Bromham

Bohie Palecek

Spencer Krug (Insert Hyperbole Here) Returns As Moonface

2011-05-21T08:55:00.003+10:00

In terms of news, this really makes all other news seriously redundant. Seriously. Spencer Krug, resident genius of Wolf Parade, Sunset Rubdown, Swan Lake, et al, is now Moonface. In 2009 he gave us "Dreamland EP: Marimba and Shit Drums". Now after recording through the Montreal winter he returns with "Organ Music Not Vibraphone Liked I'd Hoped". It will consist of 5 tracks and last 37 minutes. Jagjaguwar will give us the good on August 2.

To quote the great man, " At first this record was going to be another percussion album, not completely unlike the Dreamland EP, done with a vibraphone and some sparse guitar, extra percussion, what have you. But it wasn't happening. I don't know why. Sometimes it just doesn't happen. Then, one night, laying awake and thinking about music, I suddenly wanted to play an old double-manual organ - the kind from the 80s that you find in your grandmother's basement. I would procure such an organ, hook it up to big whirling speakers and powerful amplifiers, and make a long, drone-filled, lush and noisy album of intense volume and beauty and poeticism. This was the new plan. Half of it happened."

You can listen to the first track for preview below. It's fantabulous!

Organ Music Not Vibraphone Liked I'd Hoped Track Listing
1 Return to the Violence of the Ocean Floor
2 Whale Song (Song Instead of a Kiss)
3 Fast Peter
4 Shit-Hawk in the Snow
5 Loose Heart = Loose Plan

MP3: Fast Peter-Moonface

Clap Your Hands Say Yeah!

2011-05-20T14:27:00.004+10:00

Clap Your Hands Say Yeah / Hysterical from CYHSY on Vimeo.

This was a shock! But a good one. Clap Your Hands Say Yeah will be releasing album number three on September 20. "Hysterical" will be their first in four years. Can't wait!

Modest Mouse Tour

2011-05-19T15:46:00.003+10:00

Nothing much more needs to be said, other then that this is great news! Today Modest Mouse announced three shows in Australia/NZ as part of their Splendour trip.

Modest Mouse Tour Dates
25 July Metro Theatre, Sydney
27 July Prince Bandroom, Melbourne
1 August Powerstation, Auckland

Tickets on sale 27 May

"Itchin on a Photograph"-Grouplove

2011-05-16T21:26:00.003+10:00

Here is the brand new single and video from the wonderful Grouplove. This single will be from their forthcoming debut album, due out in 2011. Looking forward to a Splendour sideshow!

The War On Drugs Is Not Over

2011-05-12T15:53:00.000+10:00

Last year The War On Drugs teased us with a mini-album. Now, gratefully, we can look forward to a full length. "Slave Ambient" will be released on August 16, via Secretly Canadian. The album contains 12 tracks, of which 3 were actually included on last year's "Future Weather". I have loved everything this band have done in the past, so I am definitely looking forward to this one.

Slave Ambient Track Listing
1 Best Night
2 Brothers
3 I Was There
4 Your Love Is Calling My Name
5 The Animator
6 Come To The City
7 Come For It
8 It's Your Destiny
9 City Reprise #12
10 Baby Missiles
11 Original Slave
12 Black Water Falls

MP3: Baby Missiles