Rabbit Hole Music

Welp, it's been a while for sure

2011-04-30T10:21:00.000-07:00

I haven't written a blog post in ages. However, the music has been flowing better than ever. Hard to believe I started this little thing 4 years ago, created my own site, and now I'm back. I have to thank my boy Dan Goldin from Exploding in Sound for keeping me afloat. This year has already been better than last, and it's not even half over. More to come....

News: Winterpills Post Preview Track From Upcoming Album

2007-12-20T12:10:00.000-08:00

The dual vocal, pop-folk ensemble Winterpills have posted a track from their currently untitled new album, due in 2008. You can go here to listen to Beesting. (While there, I highly recommend checking out "Hide Me", also on their player, from their 2007 release - "The Light Divides". If you like what you hear, they're also currently running a special to buy their two currently released albums at discounted prices. I highly recommend both, not to be biased or anything. Hey, they might even throw in a free badger with your order!*)

*Badger offer void if ordered after 12/15/07.

Hymns Travel In Herds....In Texas!

2007-12-13T17:51:00.000-08:00

As the saying goes, "Don't Mess With Texas!" Blackland Records is validating that statement with the release of the sophomore album from pet project, Hymns. Travel In Herds is a spacious and aural pleasure, and was recorded in Palmer, TX smack dab in the middle of a 60 acre ranch.

Sleeping on couches in the studio, eating every meal on location, and enjoying Coen Bros.' movie marathons heavily contributed to the 70's folk-rock vibe that transcends over the record. Oozing a warm concoction of equal parts Sparklehorse, Wilco, and Neil Young only seems to touch on the powerful nerve these ol' boys have hit on. It will hit shelves on March 11th, so tide yourself over with the hypnotizing single, "I Can't Be What You Want".

MP3

Okkervil River Unveils The Golden Opportunities Mixtape

2007-12-13T15:55:00.000-08:00

One of our very favorite bands, Okkervil River, has already released an amazing album this year with The Stage Names. But fortunately for us, that wasn't enough for these generous souls. Now they are offering The Golden Opportunities mixtape, a free covers album available on their website.

These songs – including selections by Randy Newman, Joni Mitchell, the Fugs, and Serge Gainsbourg – were recorded live on tour around the United States, and range from performances with a live orchestra to solo songs recorded in hotel stairwells. Go to www.okkervilriver.com now to get the whole record for free, complete with printable artwork (in different color combinations) for those who want to make a physical copy of the CD.

This is such a great idea, (especially considering this one is really good,) and a lot more artists should consider things like this.

The Kills Giving Me A Fever

2007-12-13T15:35:00.000-08:00

Domino Records will be releasing The Kills' brand new album, Midnight Bloom, on March 18th. Check out the video for the wonderful single, "URA Fever".

MP3

The Sub Pop Roundup!

2007-12-12T18:47:00.000-08:00

Sub Pop Records have earned such a place in my heart and mind (and ears,) that I'm devoting a monthly column to their wonderful offerings in mass format. I'll try to never miss an album, if possible, because the label just has a knack for delivering the goods. This months edition features two releases from the past few months.

Kinski's 7th LP, Down Below It's Chaos, continues to showcase the Seattle boys' stoner meets avant-garde eccentricities whilst throwing in a few more vocals than you may be used to.

At times, the whole sound seems tired, like I've heard Kyuss and Black Sabbath play similar riffs and sludgy vocals years ago. But, it's their post-rock side that really keeps me intrigued. Tracks like "Boy I Was Mad" and "Silent Biker Type" definitely keep me interested, but the more stoner oriented tracks seem a bit retread and lacking.

Now, with The Go! Team's 2nd album, Proof Of Youth, it's not that I don't find it insanely catchy or wierd or utterly interesting, but I can't get over the fact that it feels like a huge gimmick.

"Grip Like a Vice" hammers you immediately with a sound akin to M.I.A., and doggone it's infectious with it's 80's ghettoblaster beats and Chuck D style rhymes. Almost immediately, however, they can pull a switcharoo on ya with a Jackson 5 meets Animal Collective track like "Doing It Right". The whole album is so eclectic it almost feels contrived, I mean, who can mesh so many influences like this, naturally? But nothing can actually compare to listening to this album in it's entirety, it's just that unique. I definitely have my reservations, but this band won't soon be forgotten, and I'll surely tell a few friends.

That's it for this month's Sub Pop Roundup, next month we'll focus on two band's I have a major jones for with Band of Horses and Iron and Wine.

Kinski MP3
The Go! Team MP3

The Apex Theory Will Become MT>Helium

2007-12-12T16:45:00.000-08:00

Experimental rock trio, The Apex Theory will play their last show on December 14th at Whisky A Go Go. After 2+ years working on their sophomore LP, Faces, they decided that a change was needed and will officially become MT>Helium.

Look for the album to be released digitally in March with hard copies in stores soon after.

MP3: Stream the Album

NEWS: Future Of The Left Are One To Watch

2007-12-10T14:44:00.001-08:00

Future Of The Left are composed of two thirds of the now defunct rock band Mclusky, singer/ guitarist Andy Falkous and drummer Jack Egglestone, and one-fifth of rock band Jarcrew, wild-eyed frontman Kelson Louis Matthias. Both bands shared a mutual admiration; both bands bit the dust in their own special way. Jarcrew released one album, got lost in their confusing maze of great ideas, and finally disintegrated shortly after their drummer left. Mclusky released three albums and finally fell to pieces under largely acrimonious circumstances, the gory details of which the curious can doubtless find recounted somewhere other than here.

Future Of The Left mix it up with the punk rock and the indie. They have songs about the skeletons of tiny children, Tories and cats. The album has been called, of all things, "devious" and they caused a mini riot at their record release show in London, for serious! http://www.nme.com/news/future-of-the-left/31377

Like Rarebit, scurvy and Bonnie Tyler, they are from Wales. Their debut full-length "Curses" is out on too pure January 29, 2008.

MP3

Needless to say, I'm diggin' it.

News: Dikta Post Christmas Song

2007-12-10T05:48:00.000-08:00

Okay, this might be a bit self-indulgent, but if it's relevant to me, it might be relevant to 2 other people out there! The Icelandic darlings, Dikta, have posted their version of their native country's christmas tune, "Nóttin var sú ágæt ein", at this link. This was recorded last year and they are currently recording a studio version to be posted soon.

News/Download: WhiteRoom Post New Song

2007-12-09T19:46:00.000-08:00

Anyone that knows us who write here on Rabbit Hole knows that we love some WhiteRoom. They have been gracious enough to give their listeners a taste of their new recordings. You may go to http://www.whiteroom.ca/music to get your own acoustic copy of "Addicted to Gold". Once you're done, I'm sure the guys wouldn't mind you stopping by their myspace site to give them a thanks, kudos, or if you feel it necessary - a "don't quit your day job". (For those not familiar with the band - now's a good time to start... it's free-form jazz meets radiohead meets that last song on Incubus' Morningview CD)

Lingua is Freaking Good

2007-12-06T15:37:00.001-08:00

You probably haven't heard of Lingua before, but don't read too much into that. They are from Sweden, Stockholm in fact, and have actually been plugging away for the better part of 7 years.

All that is just info, however, and their sound should be much more important to you. What they are is extremely heavy, thick, and layered art-metal. Think ISIS and Dredg mixing paints, because those are the two bands that come to mind when you listen to their debut album, The Smell of a Life that Could Have Been.

Fortunately, I discovered this album only recently, and they are now in the middle of production of their sophomore album. Try and track down the debut album now while you await the new one.

MP3: Check out the track "May Crayons Guide the Sheep."

The Heavenly States Will Release "Delayer" In Feb.

2007-12-06T15:24:00.000-08:00

For Delayer, THE HEAVENLY STATES have decided to use their collective studio experience to produce the record themselves, unlike their earlier albums, which were produced by such big names as Jeff Saltzman (The Killers, Two Gallants), Paul Oldham (Will Oldham’s brother and main producer), and John Agnello (Dinosaur Jr, The Hold Steady). Delayer is thick with sonic layers and, as Rolling Stone says of their prior album, “delivers equal parts patchouli-soaked violin and Superchunk-worthy melodies.” Delayer is the band’s first effort on new label, the Rebel Group. Look for it in February.

MP3

BAND OF THE DAY: Benny Crespo's Gang

2007-11-27T15:20:00.001-08:00

Website/Listen

It only takes a moment to realize that Benny Crespo's Gang is not your average Icelandic band. This is in no way a slight on the group or Icelandic music in general either, rather it should reinforce how unique that both are. Sigur Ros and Bjork, initially, set the islands standards with luscious, string-laden, and epic landscapes of music. But in recent years bands such as Dikta, Mum, AMPop, Ulpa, Shadow Parade, Leaves, and Petur Ben have shown that Iceland is a hotbed for gorgeous, sprawling music. As wonderful and amazing as they are all, Benny Crespo's Gang is a whole other monster.

Within seconds of their debut albums opening, you can tell the 'Gang have much more in common with ATDI or The Mars Volta than anything post-rock related. And while I, personally, have come to love that "Icelandic" sound, what Benny and Co. are doing seems majestically refreshing and invigorating. Everything about the album feels just a tad off kilter and it's that killer edge that has me gasping with joy and excitement over the band's first musical musings. If it's the quirky fuzz of Sonic Youth or Blonde Redhead or the dirty sludge of QOTSA or Cave In, this band is just about as "it" as "it" gets....if that makes any sense?

And to top it all off, as soon as I think I've got the book on the Crespos', they go and record a beautiful, luscious track called "Conditional Love," just to prove they aren't totally anti-Iceland. Eat your heart out Bjork, this band is for real.

Show Review: Mute Math/Eisley - Amos' Southend, Charlotte, NC 10-26-07

2007-11-19T20:30:00.000-08:00

Rows of fluorescent lights support three large white projection screens surrounded by various other lighting accessories. That is the scene greeting patrons from the stage as they file into the Amos’ Southend venue in Charlotte, NC on October 26, 2007. To any fans of Mute Math, who have previously seen their live performances, most of this is an endearing site with somewhat of a twist. By 8:00 pm, the venue is starting to come alive and a mere 15 minutes later, the vocal powerhouse named Eisley takes the stage.

Eisley’s set does not exactly take off running; it’s not from a lack of trying, as they do lead off with one of the stronger tracks off Invasion, their most recent release. The sound system is the proverbial thorn in their side as feedback continually rings loudly over the house system with each attempt to sing the lyrics of Many Funerals. The band, in frustration, actually stops the song and apologizes to the seemingly understanding crowd who cheer their sheer candidness. This is a quality that the band seemingly uses to their benefit throughout their somewhat stiff performance. Their frank stage banter was equally as memorable as the songs themselves. (They don’t particularly like most “girl bands” either, they at one point confessed to a crowd that seemed to agree, excluding present company)

For lack of a better description, Eisley conveys the feeling of watching the high school band perform at the annual talent show for the second or third time. There’s not a lot of blunders by the actual performers, but there’s not yet that “rock band” posturing or attitude that says “we own you right now.” Eisley flawlessly perform their music as well as they do on disc, if not better, but exude an awkward air that give them a sense of vulnerability that draws the audience closer. Their stage show is quite polarizing from the one that will follow them, as they rarely move much on stage, but the quality of performance is there.

Most of Eisley’s performance predictably was heavy on the Invasion material, but did include a few numbers off Room Noises for their followers. It is also to be commended how much they soldiered on despite the constant, aforementioned audio equipment issues that hindered their ability to include all the vocal pieces that define their sound. They still managed to woo a large number of attendees with their roughly 40 minute set that closed with their current single and the title cut, “Invasion”.

By the time Eisley thanked their fans, old and new, for being such good sports during the frustrating yet satisfactory performance, the venue had more than three-quarters filled up. This is a rather important thing to note, as Amos’ is a venue that holds 1,200 people at full capacity. Less than two years ago, Mute Math played a different local venue, Tremont, which contains both a “large” stage and an intimate “casbah” stage to which the band played the latter. That stage holds at most 325 patrons and was not completely filled. Their next two trips through Charlotte found them moving to Tremont’s larger stage, then to the current venue, but with it being less than half full. Their 4th club show in this region in just under 2 years found them almost selling out the 1,200 person club. This alone speaks volumes about Mute Math’s track record both for solid performances and relentless touring schedule.

As the house lights went down, all the long-time followers of the band were treated to a new stage intro. The previous brightening and dimming of the fluorescent lights and a rather large incandescent bulb, center-stage, where now replaced by a large projection of white noise that encapsulated the three large screens stage top and down over the fluorescent bars lining the entire stage back. Mute Math had managed to take what was already their expected show of stage antics and dramatic lighting punch to the next level by incorporating video images in a non-traditional fashion.

The band walked on stage to thunderous applause, and it was especially piled on for the anticipated ritual of, drummer, Darren King taping his headphones to his head. To anyone who has not experienced a Mute Math concert, this is what you call foreshadowing. The first time I saw the band, it was the moment I realized “this isn’t going to be your normal show.” The band members took up their various instruments while bathed in deep red light as the white noise continued to play behind them. As if a machine sparked to sudden life, they all began jamming at exactly the same moment with such fluid motion that made it seem they had been on stage playing all along. Roy Mitchell-Cardenas, the band’s bassist, looked particularly maniacal beating away at one of the drums with such passionate fervor as yellow spotlight washed over him.

At this time, the guys launched into their first actual song, “Typical”, with full theatrics and did not relent from that point forward. The current internet video sensation was well received by the crowd, and was a great foot to lead forward with to get all pistons firing between both band and audience. “Chaos” followed their opener before they unleashed the only new song of the night, “Clockwork”. This song saw frontman Paul Meany playing guitar rather than his usual Rhodes or keytar instrumentation and was more on the low-key side than a majority of the band’s repertoire.

It was by this point that long-time fans, including this reviewer, could tell the band was a little off. I originally chalked it up to a relentless touring schedule full of action packed, chaotic shows finally taking some sort of toll, but hoped that it was just a bug passing through the band. Paul’s vocals were not nearly as strong or fervent as past performances, though the musicianship was mostly there. There were some parts that sounded a bit off still, but that could be attributed to the previously mentioned sound issues. It also could be the simple fact that a band with that much energy and unpredictability will miss a beat here and there if you actually start to listen for it. (Checking reports of shows following tonight’s performance, I found similar reports of Paul losing his voice) Having said that, the energy from the band was still at full-steam and if anyone noticed deficiencies, they didn’t seem to care.

The band played most of their self-titled release before the final bow of the evening, all sounding more dynamic and passionate than their studio-recorded counterparts. “Peculiar People”, one of the few songs not borrowed from the Reset EP on the band’s re-release of debut full-length, featured one of the most interactive sing-alongs in set. The back-and-forth cat-calling of “whoa”s built like a wave refusing to break until everyone in the venue was echoing in unison. Mr. Meany’s vocals strained to keep up with the crowd’s collective counters, but he mastered the moment before bringing the anthem to its transcendental declaration of “we were born to fly”.

As if the band itself weren’t enough visual stimulation for anyone lucky enough to land a good view of the stage, the new projection system showed coinciding video loops through each song. “You Are Mine” is but one good example as it featured an endearing, classic black & white video of a couple dancing together to the beautiful ballad of love. Of course, for the Mute Math purists, there were the typical stage antics during the live set staples “Stare at the Sun/Obsolete” and “Break the Same”. To anyone who has not witnessed a Mute Math jam session, it would best be described as four A.D.D. children being let loose on musical instruments doing their best impression of The Blue Man Group. You can never assume that there’s something one of the band members won’t do during these brief sessions. Paul can just as easily be expected to be seen jumping on and/or over his Rhodes piano as one can expect to see Darren stacking his drums haphazardly atop one another playing the metal stands as much as the drums themselves or even riding a drum into the crowd. Tonight’s show saw no one riding into the crowd on a whim, however, and was rather tame by their usual standards.

The encore was, of course, the mother of all Mute Math jam sessions more commonly known as, the instrumental track, “Reset”. This song has been Mute Math’s closer for sometime and yet, with each performance, still feels as refreshing as the first viewing. With the band interchanging various instruments and Paul bringing out his homemade instrument that he “releases” to the crowd by song’s end, the energy manages to reach its climax with thundering clacks, feedback wails, and blisteringly fast strobe lighting. The band leaves no option for further encores as they manage to tear down the entire stage setup by the completion of their finale’s performance. Four men who appear genuinely grateful for the place they’ve achieved thank the spent audience and make their weary escape to the sound of continuous applause.

News: A "Must Buy" Christmas Album With A Cause

2007-11-14T22:05:00.000-08:00

You can buy a new Christmas compilation that features the splendor that is Sleeptalker among others (including Chris Walla) right here. All proceeds of the $7 album go directly to Toys for Tots, as no artists are paid and the album is a download! The tracklisting is as follows:

1. Prayers & Tears of Arthur Digby Sellers - Shepherd's Song
2. Quiet Company - Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas
3. Great Lake Swimmers - Gonna Make it Through This Year
4. Someone Still Loves You Boris Yeltsin / Sweetwater Abilene - The Wheels Are Off
5. Chris Walla - Coventry Carol
6. David Karsten Daniels - In The Bleak Midwinter
7. Casiotone for the Painfully Alone - Hark! The Herald Angels Sing
8. The Winston Jazz Routine - Through the Snow
9. Via Audio - My Boo
10. The Long Winters - Sometimes You Have to Work on Christmas (Sometimes)
11. TW Walsh - Drop the Bomb
12. Ohtis - American Christians
13. Aaron Robinson - End of the Year
14. The Cotton Jones Basket Ride (Michael Nau of Page France) - White Christmas
15. American Music Club - Please Please
16. Johnny Bertram - Merry Christmas (You Won't Get What You Want)
17. Rosie Thomas - Christmas Time is Here
18. Sleeptalker - This is Christmas

Total Tracks : 18
Total running time : 58.6 minutes

ALBUM REVIEW: Dillinger Escape Plan-Ire Works

2007-11-14T17:36:00.002-08:00

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The progression that has led the last few DEP releases continues to shine on their newest disc, Ire Works. In a seemingly constant effort to refine and expand on their trademark math-metal, the boys are sounding louder and more Patton-esque than ever, with a fair amount of the material seeing the group branch out from their comfort zone and into much more experimental territory.

Regardless of the major line up changes the band saw earlier this year, the disc feels like a proper follow-up to 2004's Miss Machine, with the experimentation established on the prior disc being pushed forward a great deal. Considering the five-year gap between Miss Machine and Infinity, there was a huge leap in progression and though Ire Works is out just three years later, the progression is quite noteworthy and the material more comparable to 2003's Irony is a Dead Scene.

The slower tracks on the Ire Works, see “Dead as History” and “Mouth of Ghosts”, and the long instrumental sequences spread through out the disc prove to be the most vital and exciting aspects of the album, showing an ever growing interest in electronica and a continuation of the bands on going homage to both Faith No More and Nine Inch Nails.

The key moments that feel most traditional to the groups trademark math-core are still ever present, and tighter than ever. Newcomer Gil Sharone on drums is flawless in holding his own, as "Lurch" and "82588" make evident. Integrity and forward thinking have come to be expected of DEP, and Ire Works doesn’t disappoint.

ALBUM REVIEW: Beirut-The Flying Cup Club

2007-11-12T20:34:00.000-08:00

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This guy, (Zach Condon and now an assortment of others,) is still relatively under the radar, as far as the masses are concerned, but the indie world has more than taken notice. His Debut LP, Gulag Orkestar, blew away the few who initially wrapped their ears around it's ethnic yet humble folk flavor. However, it seemed to catch on with the hipsters as the year progressed, and it ended up on quite a few "Best Of" lists, my own included. Now, after a handful of impressive EP's and singles scattered in, the highly anticipated sophomore album, The Flying Cup Club, goes under the microscope.

Gleefully, I can attest that it bookends almost perfectly with Orkestar, almost to a fault. His Neutral Milk Hotel meets The Decemberists hallmark is so charismatic and heartwarming, it should serve as a magnet for all contemporary folk-rock aficionados. My biggest complaint is that individual tracks fail to stand-out. There never seems to be tracks I instinctively turn to. However, that being said, I never skip any of the cuts, and have no problem listening to the album on repeat for hours. The bottom line is I recommend this album for all indie-rock fans and anyone who loves their music peppered with multitudes of diverse instrumentation and abstract instruments. Any yuppie looking for a singles heavy, flavor of the month "It" band should stray elsewhere. Beirut is the real deal.

News: Decemberists Cancel Remainder of Tour

2007-11-02T10:02:00.000-07:00

The Decemberists have had to cancel the remaining dates on their current "The Long and Short of It" tour. Their statement is below:

With much regret The Decemberists have cancelled the remainder of "The Long and Short of It" tour.

One of our band members has been ill for a while but we thought all would be well in time for these tour dates. After a couple shows, though, it has become clear that the illness is much worse than we had initially realized. We need to return home so our friend can mend.

It saddens us to disappoint our fans. We hope everybody understands it is only because of an extreme situation that we had to cancel a tour we've all been excited about doing since the idea was originally hatched.

Our deepest apologies but at this time no plans are being made to reschedule the dates. Ticket holders should seek refunds at point of purchase.

The Dear Hunter to Tour Australia

2007-11-02T09:54:00.000-07:00

The Dear Hunter have announced that they will be doing a brief tour of Australia in February & early March as part of the Soundwave Festival. The announced dates are as follows:

Feb 23 - Soundwave Festival at Riverstage & Parklands - Brisbane, Queensland
Feb 24 - Soundwave Festival at Sydney Park - Sydney, New South Wales
Feb 29 - Soundwave Festival at Melbourne Showgrounds - Melbourne, Victoria
Mar 1 - Soundwave Festival at Bonython Park - Adelaide, South Australia
Mar 3 - Soundwave Festival at Steel Blue Oval - Perth, Western Australia

Paulson Annouce Digital EP release

2007-11-01T21:42:00.001-07:00

My good friends and one of my favorite bands, Paulson have just released this little bit of info:

So if you don't know, ever since we got home from the He Is Legend tour, we've been working on a new record, which is an incredible amount of work. So to break up the monotony, we decided to record some stuff and do an itunes only digital single/EP for Calling On You. It's going to feature the album version of Calling On You, some alternate versions/remixes, a few of our covers that we do live and the video for like $4.99. What a deal.

Tracklist:

1) Calling On You (Album Version)
2) Calling On You (Mezzir Mix)
3) Calling On You (Choral A Cappella Version)
4) Wonderwall
5) Better Off Alone
6) Party All The Time

The single will be available for around $4.99 and also include the video for Calling On You.

Epic Records Signs Indianapolis Pop Outfit Margot and The Nuclear So & Sos

2007-10-31T15:12:00.000-07:00

The 8-piece is a circle of young friends who, in the spring of 2005, quietly released one of the most beloved indescribable records in recent memory, The Dust of Retreat. The band is currently working with producer, Brian Deck (Iron & Wine, Modest Mouse, Califone) on their second full-length record, Animal, which is slated for release in early 2008.

Most often described as a chamber-pop orchestra evocative of The Decemberists and Neutral Milk Hotel, the band has toured the country with The Elected, Rogue Wave, The Frames, South, The Fray, among others. This winter the band will hit the road on a string of headlining dates introducing some of their new material.

Tour dates are as follows:
Date City Venue
12/7 Lexington, KY The Dame
12/8 Cincinnati, OH Mad Hatter
12/9 Cleveland, OH Beachland Tavern
12/10 Washington, DC The Black Cat
12/11 Philadelphia, PA First Unitarian Church
12/12 Boston, MA Middle East
12/13 New York, NY Mercury Lounge

As Tall As Lions Announce Digital EP "Into The Flood" Out November 27th

2007-10-31T15:05:00.000-07:00

As Tall As Lions are set to release a new digital EP entitled Into The Flood November 29th on Triple Crown/East West. The band recorded the EP with Mike Watts over a six day period in October at Vudu Studios in Long Island and are excited for their fans to get a taste of something new before they hibernate in early 2008 to record the follow up to 2006's self titled LP.

Into The Flood Track Listing:

1. 505

2. Into The Flood

3. We're The Ones That Keep You Warm At Nite

4. Breakers

5. Blacked Out

ALBUM REVIEW: Behold the Arctopus - Skullgrid

2007-10-25T21:17:00.000-07:00

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Enough with this boring "Oh look at us, we utilize a vast array of musical instruments to create something truly breathtaking" jibberjabber. Let's get some vicious riffs and mind-boggling fretburning action up in this piece before everyone retires for the night in their suede smoking jackets and leather mocassins, shall we?

Ladies and gentlement who read this Rabbit Hole blog, I present to you tech-metal instrumentalists Behold the Arctopus's latest opus, Skullgrid. Yes, it is a fact that I had no idea this album even existed until tonight. Yes, it is a fact that the only reason I found out about it is because I assumed the assclowns at the local shop would put Battles in the Metal section, even though it obviously didn't belong there. After all, these ARE the same folks who have, despite my numerous indications that this practice is wrong, left dozens of copies of Cage's Hells Winter in the Metal section, despite, uh...Cage being a rapper... These are the facts. One more fact: This album is fantastic in all arenas (except bass and vocals, as they don't exist on this album).

I feel especially bad for saying this, but it seems the band has really taken a stranglehold on Mick Barr's guitar sound. Reading the liner notes, though, it appears there may be a reason for all this idolatry: Mick Barr plays on the record. Small world.

As I listen to the album, trying to find the best track, the sure money gets put on "You Are Number Six," an epic track running nearly 9 minutes and featuring dozens of starts, stops, zigs, and zags. It is a masterpiece. But when all is said and done, the band closes far better than they open, leaving you fully satisfied with the climax, "Transient Exuberance," which gives the listener five false endings before delivering the final knock-out blow.

It's nice to hear fingertapping mixed with real riffing. It seems like it's been ages.

Also, this is just ridiculous:

P.S. I love "Oh look at us, we utilize a vast array of musical instruments to create something truly breathtaking" bands as much as, if not more than, my comrades here at Rabbit Hole.

Band to Watch - Percy Farm

2007-10-25T20:13:00.000-07:00

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Percy Farm is a band without an eye-catching name, but thankfully this unimposing moniker provides a stark contrast to their energetic, creative music. Rather than rely on a gimmicky inside joke or semi-clever play on words to grab the attention of potential listeners, Percy Farm banks on their ability to write breathtaking songs that fit into a cohesive whole - that is, placing emphasis on the album over its singles - and achieve this via an eclectic array of instruments and styles. Their 2007 debut, The End's In the Beginning, blends sublime pop-rock sensibilities with dashes of post-rock, jazz and country to create a musical experience so unique and confident that it shames most offerings from more experienced bands. It's easily one of the year's best rock albums, and with it these talented musicians have quickly established themselves as an undeniable new force in today's music scene.

Album Review: Saybia-Eyes On The Highway

2007-10-21T13:43:00.000-07:00

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I was familiar with Saybia before I received a copy of their 3rd LP, Eyes On The Highway, having previously covered the 2004 release, These Are The Days. I adored that album 3 years ago, but it did not quite prepare me for the masterpiece they would go on to record.

Simply put, Eyes On The Highway, is an amalgam of nearly every band I've come to love. Taking little pieces of bands like Ours, Gazpacho, Coldplay, Interpol, Jeff Buckley, heck even the amazing (and disgustingly obscure) Dikta. Since the band hails from Denmark, I'm guessing a lot of this is not pre meditated, making it all the more impressive. This ability to craft one unforgettable song after another, each one pulling more and more on your heart strings, just becomes uncanny after the course of 50 minutes.

The album flutters and churns around with loads of acoustic guitars, piano keys, and random bursts of strings or crashing waves. Never does a sound on the album feel out of place, and never do you feel disappointed. From the beautiful opener, "On Her Behalf, " to the ultra-catchy "Godspeed Into the Future" the album flows seamlessly, with tracks that would complete any mix. I would also be remiss if I didn't mention one of the best songs of the year, "The Odds." Lord, this band is breathtaking.

Far-Less Ready For Their Toast

2007-10-11T19:14:00.000-07:00

A Toast To Bad Taste will be in stores on October 23, but it is available now for pre-order. Fans that pre-order the record via Interpunk.com will receive a free Far-Less t-shirt with their purchase, while supplies last. Visit < http://www.interpunk.com/item.cfm?Item=151994 > for more details.

Fans can also take a sneak peek of A Toast To Bad Taste from October 16 to 18 on Myspace.com, as the entire album will be streaming for free.

Far-Less Fall 2007 Tour Dates:

10.13 Jacksonville, FL @ Murray Hill Theatre #
10.15 Orlando, FL @ Back Booth #
10.17 Baton Rouge, LA @ The Darkroom #
10.19 Birmingham, AL @ Cave 9 #
10.20 Douglasville, GA @ The 7 Venue #
10.21 Chattanooga, TN @ Café Miaroma #
10.22 Nashville, TN @ The Anchor #
10.23 Johnson City, TN @ The Hideaway #^
10.24 Greensboro, NC @ Greene Street #^
10.25 Raleigh, NC @ The Berkley Café #^
10.26 Blacksburg, VA @ Crossroads (INSTORE - 4pm)
10.26 Blacksburg, VA @ Attitudes #^
10.28 Roanoke, VA @ Roanoke Dance Theater #
11.01 Memphis, TN @ Dregs *
11.02 Louisville, KY @ Uncle Pleasants *
11.03 Kent, OH @ The Barn *
11.04 Brooklyn, NY @ Music Hall of Williamsburg *
11.06 East Stroudsburg, PA @ Penn Monster Factory *
11.07 Lemoyne, PA @ The Championship *
11.08 Harrisonburg, VA @ Guzmans *
11.09 Danville, VA @ Plan B *
11.10 Arden, NC @ Graffiti Music Hall *
11.11 Columbia, SC @ New Brookland Tavern *

# with The Glass Ocean, Secret And Whisper
* with He Is Legend, Telescreen, Josh Moore

Spiritualized Tour For First Time In 4 Years, New Album Next

2007-10-11T19:05:00.000-07:00

Led by Jason Spaceman, the critically acclaimed, ever-evolving Spiritualized have announced plans for a string of November shows, their first in 4 years. The band have recently completed recording a brand new album, the eagerly-awaited follow up to 2003’s Amazing Grace, to be released in 2008.

Dates In Full:

November
Sunday 11th - San Francisco @ Bimbos
Monday 12th - Los Angeles @ Vista Theater
Tuesday 13th - Los Angeles @ Vista Theater
Friday 16th - New York @ The Apollo

Oceansize Ready to Release Frames

2007-08-31T08:35:00.000-07:00

Oceansize are set to release their third album Frames through Superball on the 1^st October 2007.

One of the UK’s true innovators, Oceansize have carved a unique place for themselves in the music scene. Previous albums Effloresce and Everyone Into Position have been hugely critically acclaimed. This acclaim, in part recognition that Oceansize look to do things differently to the mainstream. The sound is progressive but never forgets the importance of good songs.

Frames is an album that takes the band to the next level. Eight tracks weighing in at 67 minutes, this is not an album of the instant but ultimately forgettable “single”. The band weaves layers of instrumentation and vocals to create a unique sound and feel. From the hypnotic weave of “Commemorative _ T-Shirt” to the skewed rock riffs of “Sleeping Dogs and Dead Lions”, from the epic sweeping orchestration of “Savant” to the broodingly minimal instrumental “An Old Friend Of The Christies”, this is Oceansize’s darkest, most adventurous and most accomplished album to date. “Frames” was recorded at Monnow valley Studios and produced by Chris Sheldon (Biffy Clyro, Foo Fighters, Radiohead.)

TRACKLISTING

1. Commemorative T-Shirt
2. Unfamiliar
3. Trail of Fire
4. Savant
5. Only Twin
6. An Old Friend of the Christies
7. Sleeping Dogs and Dead Lions
8. The Frame
9. Voorhees (Bonus Track)

Lim. Ed. CD Digipack Version incl. bonus track + logo cutout cover

Make sure and check out the new music at www.myspace.com/oceansizeuk

The Stiletto Formal Post Pumpkins Cover

2007-07-14T09:24:00.000-07:00

The Stiletto Formal Posted their cover of The Smashing Pumpkins song Everlasting Gaze on their Virb.com page.
Make sure and check them out.

REVIEW: Nurses-Hangin' Nothin' But Our Hands Down

2007-06-21T20:33:00.001-07:00

Purchase
Myspace

Nurses are just plain cool, ya know? Bands these days try so hard to look cool, to seem "deep," to set and follow trends. What they fail to realize however, is you cannot force or fake being awesome. You are just born with it. Nurses "get" this and take full advantage of their amazing ability to be rad. From the brilliantly unforgettable layout and artwork of Hangin' Nothin' But Our Hands Down all the way to the tiny plastic magnifying glass included to read the tiny lyrics. This band oozes magnificence.

And the music? Well, despite all the accolades we've heaped upon the band already, the music is still by far the most impressive piece of the puzzle. The California gents (Via Ohio) are one of the most eclectic art rock cogs you will ever discover. They can screech and croon with the best of The Blood Brothers just as easily as they can ape Freddie Mercury of Queen fame. They can pull off the sing-spoke angular rock just like mewithoutyou or Mellowdrone or even These Arms Are Snakes. Heck, we might as well throw in Q And Not U, Portugal the Man, and Vaux cause they all fit. If tracks such as "Wait for a Sign" or "And Now The Curse Of Marjorie" don't instantly stick in your brain, (in the best kinda way,) music may not be your strong suit.

Being awesome never sounded so cool.

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Beirut Announce New Album. World Rejoices!!

2007-06-21T19:50:00.000-07:00

One of the largest surprise hits of 2006 was Beirut's Gulag Orkestar, which received widespread acclaim for its innovative combination of Balkan and pop melodies. Even more surprising was that it was the work of one 19-year-old kid, Zach Condon, and done almost completely in his bedroom. Now, two years later, Condon has just completed six months of work on his follow up record, which evokes the forgotten charms of older approaches to pop music.

The new record (yet to be titled) will be released on October 9th on Ba Da Bing!, and features a notable shift in sound from Gulag. With song titles like "Nantes" and "Cherbourg," the record is more a love letter to French culture. Featuring thirteen tracks in all, this new album continues on the trajectory that began with the Lon Gisland EP, where the entire eight member band plays along on the recordings. Besides the eight member orkestar and guests, Owen Pallett of Final Fantasy adds lush string arrangements to the songs, as well as guest vocals on a track entitled "Cliquot."

Beirut will be playing a limited number of North American shows this fall in theatrical venues. Colleen, whose new album Les Ondes Silencieuse is out this month on The Leaf Label, will open.

Tour dates:

September 23rd - Princeton, NJ - Terrace F Club

September 24th – New York, NY - Worldess Music Series @ Society for Ethical Culture

September 26th - New York, NY - Delacorte Theater

September 30th – Montreal, QU – La Salla Rosa

October 2nd - Toronto, ONT - Danforth Music Hall

October 4th – Chicago, IL Portage Theater

October 8th – San Francisco, CA - Herbst Theater

October 9th – San Francisco, CA - Herbst Theater

October 10th – Los Angeles, CA - Avalon

Tracklisting:

0. A Call To Arms

1. Nantes

2. A Sunday Smile

3. Guyamas Sonora

4. La Banlieu

5. Cliquot

6. The Penalty

7. Forks and Knives(La Fête)

8. In The Mausoleum

9. Un Dernier Verre (Pour la Route)

10. Cherbourg

11. St. Apollonia

12. The Flying Club Cup

REVIEW: Bowerbirds-Hymns For A Dark Horse

2007-06-20T20:32:00.001-07:00

Purchase
Myspace

Bowerbirds are Phil Moore and Beth Tacular, two folky, artsy types who hail from North Carolina, just a hop, skip, and a jump from where I reside. It's quite refreshing to know that your neck of the woods is quite capable of producing beautiful, original, and still very humble music, instead of it always coming from some far off land you will never see.

The Bowerbirds are more than just beautiful, though. They have managed to create a soundscape that you can instantly picture in your mind's eye. It's the soundtrack to that seaside journey or rural country trip you always want to go on. It's the musical equivalent to a gorgeous place you long to go to or never want to forget. It's a very slow-paced and chill album, so don't expect to get your socks rocked, but that doesn't mean it won't blow you away. They weave the wannabe foreign-ness of Beirut with the winter strum-ability of The Mountain Goats. Hints of Swan Lake, Ticonderoga (which makes sense seeing how Mark Paulson produced the album,) and The Rosebuds are also present over the course of Hymns For A Dark Horses' leafy mixture of guitars, accordions, and violins. After hearing this album for the first time, you could have knocked me over with a feather. You might feel the same.

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Woven Post New Tracks

2007-06-20T20:03:00.000-07:00

LA's Woven, has posted 2 new tracks from their (long-overdue) sophomore album, Time Out Of Place. There is still no status as to when the album might see a release or what label will be putting it out. We only hope it's very soon.

If you have yet to listen to Woven, they are an amazing blend of Radiohead, Massive Attack, Lake Trout, and Codeseven. Their last album, 2003's 8-Bit Monk( Interscope), it worth investigating.

The Bronze Episode Post New Tracks

2007-06-19T19:14:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite "under the radar" bands, The Bronze Episode have just posted 2 new tracks from their forthcoming, still untitled, EP. The band hopes the 5 track effort will see a release in late July or early August. You can hear the tracks at their Myspace page.

This band is quite amazing, and comparable to Paulson with violins. They are planning to begin recording another EP at the end of this month to complete a series and then hopefully release their first full length by the end of the year. Lord willing.

If you haven't yet, absolutely lend this band your ears.

REVIEW: The National-Boxer

2007-06-18T09:52:00.000-07:00

Purchase
Myspace

The National are a 5 piece, originally hailing from Cincinnati, Ohio. Now, transplanted to New York, the Americana/Gothic troupe have put together one of the years most accomplished albums in Boxer. Groomed efficiently on a healthy diet of Tom Waits, Nick Cave, Bruce Springsteen and The Smiths for good measure, there is a little something for every music lover, and especially those tired of the norm, on this effort. The opening track, "Fake Empire", is utterly gripping, with it's somber piano tones, and the album rarely let's up after that. If you are looking for something real, and all-encompassing, you really need to look no further.

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Page France is a Must Hear.

2007-06-17T10:03:00.000-07:00

If you are jonesin' for some great indie-folk in the mold of Neutral Milk Hotel, Okkervil River, or The Mountain Goats, we highly recommend Maryland's Page France, they are signed to Suicide Squeeze Records. Their new album, The Family Telephone, is light hearted, catchy, and utterly endearing.

We think you might like them!

The 5 Stranded On A Desert Island Albums

2007-06-14T18:37:00.000-07:00

Dredg-Leitmotif: Does this one really need an explanation? It's a giant, landscape of art-rock that seems like this generations answer to Pink Floyd. I still hold El Cielo very close to my heart, but as far as indispensable albums go, this is it.

Clann Zu-Black Coats and Bandages: A lot of fans of the Clann favor Rua, but as much as I love it, it doesn't hold a candle to Black Coats. Between De Clann's voice, subtle violins and pianos, and the perfect Irish flavor, there may not ever be 5 albums that top this one to me.

Tool-Aenima: Chalk this one up to my youth, but as a 16 year old, this album seemed like a total eye opener (no pun intended.) Now, 11 years later, the pretension and pompousness can be over the top, but nostalgia wins out and the album feels flawless, from start to finish.

Failure- Fantastic Planet: This is Ken Andrew's brilliance at it's finest. Overlooked in 1996 when it was released, it has found a cult like status in the 11 years since. Ken was a wizard behind the controls, and this album mixes perfectly sonic mastery with catchy, spacey vocals. Nothing he has done since has matched the prowess of this album, and I hope every day they will reunite.

Placebo-Without You I'm Nothing: I don't have much to say except I know every single word on this album. I can listen to it every other day and it still gives me chill bumps. No matter what, this album will always be essential to me. Nearly every album they've recorded has been great, and usually criminally underrated. However, this one stands alone at the top.

Prepare Yourself For the New A Whisper In The Noise Album

2007-06-09T18:23:00.000-07:00

A Whisper In the Noise have completed their 3rd full length album, titled Dry Land. Currently they are unsigned in the US, but will have distribution with Southern. Southern will be releasing and distributing the album in Europe. The tracklist is as follows:

1. As We Were
2. Awaken To Winter
3. A New Dawn
4. This Time It's
5. In Will
6. Sons
7. Armament
8. You The Orphan
9. Beauty's Grace
10. Go Now
11. True Love

It's pretty darn amazing. Look for it to be released in the US in late October.

Time For A New Beginning

2007-06-04T12:42:00.000-07:00

Happily, this won't be the end of me. Look for much more from all of us in the coming weeks, and I'm just getting a start here. Today I will cheer you up with a few nice recommendations.

Dust And Blood
Quite an amazing 5-piece from Arizona, they feature the former frontman of The Drama, one of my very favorite bands that never got the chance to succeed. Dust and Blood are comparable to Placebo and Stabbing Westward. I really expect great things from these guys in the coming years.

Eksperimentoj are a fabolous trio from Japan, in the shogazing, experimental, dreampop vein. Think Blonde Redhead, Placebo, and Dredg. This band should really catch on in the US.

Thats all for now, enjoy.