it's calling to me.

I recently came upon the track "Half-Truth" by New York group Dead Leaf Echo. They have announced the 7" single as their first vinyl. It will be released in Custom Made Music, which also houses great bands Ringo Deathstarr and Screen Vinyl Image.

Pulsing guitars and dreamlike vocals in the classic style of shoegaze sucked me in. I'm excited to hear more from them.

readysetdc official launch party.

Tomorrow, ReadysetDC, official moves out of Beta and launches the new site. To celebrate we will be partying at LongView Gallery. Come join us!

all i ever wanted, all i ever needed.

I love seeing shows at Rock & Roll Hotel because it is literally a block away from my house. I sauntered in just as opening band, Baywa (NYC), finished up. What I heard was good, and I was kind of disappointed that I didn't get there earlier to see their set. Laughing Man was next and as usual they mashed up a very eclectic collection of rock tunes to get things started.

Tennis System was my favorite part of this particular night because I can always count on them to be interactive and LOUD. They even handed out earplugs before they started. I especially liked when Patrick and Ken of Ra Ra Rasputin joined them on stage for a high volume percussion breakdown. The only thing that would have made it better is a smaller venue. It's easy to get into Tennis System and mosh and dance, but there was only a small contingent in the front who were participating. [DC audiences need to bring it harder for good rock shows.]

I always look forward to seeing and supporting Ra Ra Rasputin because they were the first local band that I really started to follow. The highlight of their set was an ambitious cover of Depeche Mode's "Enjoy the Silence". Those who recognized it seemed to be into it. They also brought members of the other bands on stage for a rousing collaboration to close things out. All in all, it was a really fun show. It is great to see so much cameraderie between all of the DC bands and I love all-star lineups where impressive bands get together. It is an exciting time in the music scene right now with so much going on.

pull up to the drive-thru gimme #9.

Last night I had the privilege of catching Tabi Bonney at DC9 for Feedback. Stereofaith was backing him on the decks and Lil El & Jackie O also contributed good sets. By the time Tabi went on it was late, liquor was flowing freely, and the hype was massive. Everyone just wanted to party, and were given a great show.

"Rock Bamas" was my standout favorite, but I also loved it when he called the women on stage for a dance-along. ReadysetDC were in the audience filming, and I joined the bevy of girls for some craziness. I also really like "The Pocket" and think it's nice that there's someone out there reppin' NE. These DC rappers are really restoring my faith in hip-hop as well as in the local scene. I hope to see Tabi again ASAP. He has the potential for really big things.

it feels good to be over you babe.

DMV hip-hop artist Wale's long-awaited full-length album has finally debuted. Although it was delayed many times, Attention Deficit was worth the wait. From the time I heard him on Mark Ronson's DC remix of "Smile" by Lily Allen, Wale was on my radar. When "Nike Boots" dropped it peaked my interest even more. Two years later, the album is here!

Wale's DC pride is what attracts me to him the most. He shouts it out on Attention Deficit, but definitely delves into some deeper topics. Though I favor some songs over others, each track shows serious growth from his earlier work. My favorite song is "Contemplate." Rihanna's hook adds a dimension to the haunting sound and lyrics. The subject matter ranges from relationships, fame, and death, asking how much someone can take before they hit a limit. There are also a lot of incredibly fun tracks. I liked "Chillin" for a first single because it is uber catchy and draws attention to itself with Lady Gaga. I also love other singles "World Tour" and "Pretty Girls". The collaborations are integral. Wale and the producers made the most of their connections in order to put together some hot tracks.

Conversely, I'm not the biggest fan of all the beats, but there is space to grow with that. The vocals are hot and I praise what Wale did with his debut. I will never hesitate to support him as a local rapper with tremendous talent and potential.

EXACTLY HALLOWEEN take 2.

I would describe Exactly! as the most bloody energetic band I've ever seen. Literally bloody. And Halloween is the perfect time to catch them in their element. This year's show at the Velvet Lounge was no exception, with the usual Christmas lights setting the scene and a "Hall-O-Ween" intro song. I liked 2008's blood and tighty-whities combo, but this year it was men in powdered wigs, tights, and of course blood! Some may dismiss them as gimmicky, but that's what makes them fun. They never take themselves too seriously and it works for them.

To me, Exactly have the best of both worlds: charisma and stage presence, while proving to be genuine and determined about their music. They have made a lot of progress since debuting at SHORTS last year; and even when the music was still in the early stages, the audience could always count on a spectacular show. I like that they aren't afraid to play developing tunes like "Broken Leg" so they can gauge audience response and keep tweaking things. It points to a process where they allow things to evolve on their own to a certain extent, while still putting in the necessary work.

"Dying All Around Us" is my favorite of their songs and it is particularly catchy. A recording can be found on the DURKL mixtape, produced by Judah. Dueling keys and driving percussion are matched with fervent vocals to make up a complete and layered sound. "Jenny's Fine," always a crowd- [and Kigongo] pleaser also never fails to disappoint. Adrian Parsons and Jesse Bishop play off of each other quite a bit, while Cole Sharp keeps everything going at the drum set. Finally, Cole debuted as a vocalist during the final song, a cover of "96 Tears." This show pointed to just how diverse this lot is and how much more they have hidden up their sleeves. All in all, they go for it, and we love them for that.

remembering the last thing she said to me.

Burgeoning DC band, Tennis System, put on an epic show Wednesday night at the Velvet Lounge. I liked the psychedelic recordings queued before each song and the strobe lighting to set the atmosphere. Elements like extreme energy, noise, and volume made for a lasting impression, as it was my first time seeing them perform. It was hard to even see guitarist Drake Eidson's hand strumming the guitar because of the visual effects and intensity. Bassist Clinton Cole had his back to the audience for many of the tracks, adding to the surreal vibe. Tennis System successfully combine noise rock and melodic vocals with psychedelia and just a hint of shoegaze. I particularly liked "Esoteric" and "The Web." It was during that final track where singer/guitarist Matty Taylor catapulted off the stage and really brought everything full-circle. I look forward to the There Comes A Time EP.


U.S. Royalty are always reliable for putting on a good show. Even though I've seen them many times, the addition of some newer songs and a cover made for an interesting performance. Matthew Hemerlein joined them on a Talking Heads track called "This Must Be The Place (Naive Melody)". His violin really added a new sound to the group and this was my favorite of what they played. They closed with "Winter Wind," a track that showcased each member's talents and showed that U.S. Royalty just keep getting better. They stated that they are spending time writing, which means there's much more to come in the future.

Previous USR Post

love conquers hate.

Last Night I had the opportunity to attend Love Conquers Hate at the Human Rights Campaign. It was a landmark day for civil rights and LGBT rights because President Obama signed the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd, Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act into law. This has been a long time coming, and it is now over eleven years since Shepard's ordeal and tragic death. Daniel and Judy Shepard spoke about hope and progress in the incredibly moving and emotional ceremony.

What is the Hate Crimes Prevention Act?

The new law gives the Justice Department the power to investigate and prosecute bias-motivated violence where the perpetrator has selected the victim because of the person's actual or perceived race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or disability (HRC).

I wanted to call attention to this because it is important to write congress and let them know that we want to keep moving forward for equal rights. This victory is great, but hopefully there are many more to come.

let's go somewhere sunny, let's go and waste some money.

It is hard for me to know where to start when I know that a night has been one of the most fun I've had in a while. Ringo Deathstarr are one of my favorite bands, and whenever they come to town it makes for a great show and a wild party. I knew to expect this when I headed to Black Cat on Monday night. The bill was stacked and I was in it for the long haul.

I was excited to see State Department open up for their first performance. I've been following Patrick Kigongo's groups since the formation of Ra Ra Rasputin and was curious to see how the new group would sound live. They pulled in a good crowd and got into their set as people danced. It was a little straight rock for my tastes, but I really enjoyed "The Way to a Man's Heart is Through His Chest" and "Columbia Road", which was dedicated to Exactly's Jesse Bishop. Those songs edged a bit more to the loud, post-punk end of the spectrum. State Department are off to a promising start, but I was left wanting a bit more. As much as I like simplicity in musical composition, I would like to hear more feedback or dimension with these songs. I look forward to seeing how they progress as a group.

Last Tide were next, and they are quickly rising to the top of my list of talented DC bands. The addition of Kigongo as a second guitarist adds a lot to the already polished repertoire. This show was their EP release, so they were giving away discs and buttons to the lucky audience. They went through the EP as well as some unreleased tracks. It was an intense and ethereal set that didn't fail to highlight each members mastery of their chosen instrument. Watching them almost makes me feel like I'm in the late 80's seeing the indie scene shaping itself. The Broken Places is definitely one to add to your music collection.

And then finally came time for Ringo Deathstarr. Because the band operates out of Austin, I don't get to see them as much as I'd like. This was the first time I got to hear many of the newer tracks live, and I was impressed. I love hearing the noise and waves of feedback reverberate at the Backstage. These guys have the shoegaze experience in full effect. I admire the ease at which they place a melody over carefully measured discord to create a masterpiece. "Starrsha" will probably always be my favorite, but "So High" really got everyone into it. In the end, Kigongo was involved in all three sets as Alex Gehring handed off her bass during the last song. Happy chaos ensued with bodies and equipment hitting the stage with full force. It was the perfect ending to probably the best show I've seen all year.

The night did not end there, but what happens in Bloomingdale stays in Bloomingdale...for the most part.

Previous Ringo Post
Previous Last Tide Post

DMV so we used to the waitin.

Yesterday afternoon, a very interesting article from the Washington Post arrived in my inbox. "D.C. Hip-Hop: Can it Break the Hold of Go-Go?," by Chris Richards, will be featured in Sunday's paper. It features a look at local DMV hip-hop artists poised for national success. Check it out here!

2047.

The District of Columbia is not known for being a particularly stylish city. DURKL is a clothing company set out to expose that as a misconception. The brand was started by Will Sharp circa 5 years ago, and has since grown immensely around DC & in national and international markets. With the addition of brother Cole Sharp, and later Lucas Pierce, DURKL has become a staple amongst those who dare to be bold and "make fun" 24-7.

DURKL's unique take on streetwear has connected with musicians, emcees, DJs, producers, skateboarders, bikers, and partygoers. They have found a way to please these niche consumers by always providing something new and interesting. Never ones to shy away from color, each line includes something so out of left-field (in a good way) that I often wonder how they came up with the idea. My favorite example of this is last season's grey jeans with aqua back pockets. The Fall 2009 Collection plays on a bit of a mature edge by incorporating tailored flannels, button-downs, chinos, and snap-backs. With every line the brand grows, but still includes outrageous and funky garments. Rest assured there is always a sassy element to set these pieces apart from the competition.

The DURKL boys now have a studio and store space in the legendary Gold Leaf building. Be sure to stop in and check out the gear at 443 I St NW or peruse the online store. Prices reflect high quality, detail, and local design. It's definitely worth it.

DURKL on Twitter
DURKL on Vimby

ones and twos.

There is definitely an up-and-coming "H Street DJ culture." Venues such as Little Miss Whiskey's Golden Dollar, Rock & Roll Hotel (upstairs), Sticky Rice, and Jimmy Valentines cater to dance nights and DJ sets. This is a great way to supplement the nightlife culture in the city as the H Street Corridor continues to gain popularity. Check me out at Jimmy's NEXT SUNDAY October 18th for indie, post-punk, shoegaze, and everything rock!

well the stakes of the game seemed fine...

The new Built to Spill album is phenomenal. When my friend told me this, I went to stream the entirety of There Is No Enemy on their Myspace. I have always liked them, but this album has catapulted them into one of my favorite bands. The softer songs like "Hindsight,"Nowhere Lullaby," and "Life's a Dream"definitely stand out. Be sure to pick it up when it drops on October 6th.

i love the way she said LA.

My latest mix was made for my friend who is moving from DC to LA tomorrow. It is a grouping of feeling, well wishes, borrowed songs, tunes to drive to, and a bit of self promotion. Here's the tracklisting:


1. starrsha- ringo deathstarr
2. you're making this hard- sweet jane
3. a traitor in my mind- last tide
4. bled white- elliott smith
5. rip it up- orange juice
6. nantes- beirut
7. you're only king once- beulah
8. the d in detroit- the anniversary
9. coast to coast- the jesus & mary chain
10. sixteen- skywave
11. elevate me later- pavement
12. gentle tuesday- primal scream
13. the wait- the american analog set
14. poetaster- miracle fortress
15. blue jeans- blur
16. berlin, without return- voxtrot
17. fortress- the glands
18. just like honey (home demo)- laura reading
19. (david bowie i love you) since i was six- the brian jonestown massacre

you know that we already know you.

Last night I stumbled upon my latest musical obsession, Miike Snow. I went to their show at Rock & Roll Hotel without ever hearing any of their music. I was pleasantly surprised with the performance I was treated to. The Swedish-American electronic group has been described by The Guardian as "cooly emotional pop [that] suggests A-Ha meets Animal Collective." Here is my favorite track & a stellar music video:

PAVEMENT REUNION!!!

Yesterday, Brooklyn Vegan was abuzz with tales of a rumored Pavement reunion. Today it was confirmed, with Pitchfork stating that they "will perform a benefit show at Central Park SummerStage on September 21, 2010." After over 10 years apart, Malkmus & co will come together. This leaves the doors open for even more performances and the possibility of a tour. I will finally have the opportunity to see them live. I AM ECSTATIC! HOORAY! Only a year away...

EDIT 9/25/09: Got tickets to the 9/24/2010 show in Central Park. Whoo!

i get serious in the fall.

Before Beirut was a band, it was solely Zach Condon. When he was fifteen years old, Condon put together a brilliant record full of untitled tracks. It was called The Joys of Losing Weight. His command of strings, synth, and melody was already apparent. A friend of mine sent me this rare compilation during the dark winter months of early '09. As we step into cooler weather again, I revisit it as a calming yet melancholic force. If you can find it, scoop it up immediately, and if you want it maybe we can arrange something...I can't sleep, and so I blog.



Reminiscent of this earlier work is "Nantes" from The Flying Club Cup (2007)

i'm on a boat!

In early August, I participated in a video shoot for the Party Bros track "Ooh Bay Bay." Set at the Sharp family pool, the theme was sun, fun, and there's a Corvette in there too. The day was fruitful, and everyone waited patiently in anticipation of the finished product. Tuesday was the official premiere, which first took place on the "Celebrity" yacht and then migrated over to Wonderland Ballroom. A good time was had by all.

And so, without further ado:


More About The Shoot
More About The Boat

slim thugga...

This song has become my current jam to listen to while I walk around the city. "Three Kings" by Slim Thug, T.I., and Bun B is included on Ratatat Remixes Vol. 2 (2007), the second self-released remix album by the Brooklyn rock duo. On the whole, I find Ratatat hip-hop remixes to be a bit busy and harder to listen to than the original tracks. However, "Three Kings" thrives on the upbeat tempo and electronic backing. It definitely denotes a feel-good mood.

i don't think i'd risk another these days.

As a bit of Warhol fanatic, I discovered the song "These Days" through a Nico documentary. Jackson Browne wrote the tune at age sixteen, and it is one of the most emotional songs that I've connected with. Nico's version is severe, as is much of her work, but it is poignant and reflective. That being said, I've found a cover by St. Vincent that nearly makes me cry upon each listen. Vocally and musically it is very close to perfection, and I'm incredibly particular about female vocalists.



Browne
Nico
Elliott Smith cover

mad decent.

Yesterday I traveled up to Philly for the second annual Mad Decent Block Party. Diplo is one of my favorite DJs so I never miss a chance to see him. Got there mid-festivities and immediately ran to the free food that was being grilled up. The crowd was large, tunes bumpin', and Diplo was on the roof straight chillin', tossing shirts down. A costumed "dog" in a Michael Vick jersey was wandering the premises, to play on the fact that Vick signed to the Eagles. The DC crew was in full effect and it was good to see so many people I know had come out.

What I like the most about parties such as MDBP is the general sense of camaraderie and community. Everyone was drinking, dancing, and just having a good time. I appreciate it when artists make the effort to break down the barriers between themselves and the fans. I don't think an event this good and lax would happen in DC because of all the bureaucracy.

In terms of the music, I could have done without the so-called bands that were playing. I think I described the sound as "jibber jabber" because it was all a generalized loud muddled noise and random vocals. Many were into it, but it's just not really my thing. The DJs were all great though. They had everyone hyped up and ready to jam. I definitely hope that this summer tradition continues next year.

but for you it's just what you were told.

Bands like Last Tide revive my faith in the DC music scene. It was packed at DC9 for a Monday night, and the bill was quirky with an indie band opening for an afro-beat outfit (NOMO).

photo credit: Patrick Kigongo

As Last Tide took the stage, I first noticed guitarist/vocalist Nate Frey's pink sparkly Di Pinto and keyboardist/vocalist Libby Dorot's flashy outfit. However, once the music started all attention to visuals faded and I was in auditory heaven. Dark, noisy, synth-y, minor, with some upbeat moments, the music is right there with what I enjoy. It has a unique shoegaze influence and showcases the ability to be both simple and detailed. The guitars and effects are well-played and well-placed along with good solid vocals on both ends and attention to the use of reverb. All parts work as a whole with harmonies, integral basslines by Rob Miller, and steady percussion by Misha Alexander.

Other highlights include a spot-on cover of "Memories Can't Wait" by the Talking Heads and, my favorite of their original songs,"A Traitor in My Mind." The lyrics call to mind melancholic relationships ie "this time I didn't bother begging/ cuz I knew you'd never stay." A close second, they closed their set with "Shadows in the Rain," which built until denouement and slowly tapered off. It was a perfect way to end things on a high note.

I wanted to have these songs on my iPod right away, and thankfully the recording process is occurring now. The main thing that I took away from this show is that I like music that makes the listener think about a deeper meaning.

Myspace

say yeah, cinderella.

DC's BOTTLES/CANS is a group that packs a powerful punch with a bit of a soft touch. With the official CD Release, on Thursday, August 6 at Rock & Roll Hotel, I wanted to talk a bit about their debut album Only, Please.

Recorded at The Bastille, part of the Inner Ear Studios in Arlington, the final product is a pleasing rock record. Opting for live studio recording and a more limited production style, they left in banter between songs and certain imperfections. I like this because it adds realness and grittiness, which keeps a true rock edge. This is not a group that needs a lot of smoke and mirrors in order to sound good. There is a lot of strength and energy coming from the guitar and the drums. The vocals are confident, with well thought out melodies and harmonies. And stay tuned until the very end, there is a gem.

Kevin Eskowitz, Zach Pentel, & Brendan Polmer are BOTTLES/CANS. Only, Please will be available on iTunes, Amazon, Rhapsody, etc in mid-August.

& i don't know you, baby, you don't know me.

Yesterday, I found out through Twitter that Voxtrot has posted a new song on their Myspace. Ramesh released the track on his second DJ installment for the Portuguese radio station RADAR Liboa 97.8 FM.

In contrast to the last single, electronic-driven "Trepanation Party," Berlin showcases a more minimalistic sound. Classic piano and strings stand out behind interspersed foreign dialogue. There is a purposeful dissonance as if the track was meant to sound a bit haphazard and articulate a more intimate "in the moment" feeling. Vocals are sometimes off-key, but in a way that fits in with the nostalgic melancholy of the lyrics. It is clear that Ramesh has put a lot of his emotions into the vocals even though the melody and lyrics are on the simpler side. It all has an understated coolness to it. I enjoy the more grown up sound that is developing with these new releases and I look forward to seeing where they go next.

get radio podcast here

we swim with sharks.

...and fly with aeroplanes out of here.



Cat Power is my current trying-to-go-to-sleep music. "Lived in Bars," off of The Greatest (2006), is in particular one of my favorites. This somber track features Chan Marshall's deep airy vocals set to a building backing band. I am attracted to the doo-wop aspects and backing vocals, which take the track from a tortured mood to a more upbeat jazzy tone.

hey mr. dj...

With the help of local artists, Adrian Loving is the spearhead of an alliance to bring recognition and respect to career-DJs. The Deejay's Coalition is an organization formed to create an awareness and understanding of social and professional issues within DJ culture. This collective hopes that the "Deejays Are Not Jukeboxes" Campaign can bring important matters to the forefront in order to create a cultural consciousness amongst both DJs and partygoers.


Loving's concept will integrate local and global music scenes in an effort to educate employers and audiences about what it really means to be a DJ. An article by Karen Sommer Shallett in DC Magazine's July/August 2009 issue further articulates the cause by explaining:

Loving gathered 15 DC Djs together to create the “Deejays Are Not Jukeboxes” public-service announcement, which he hopes will raise the volume on respecting your DJ.

The bold (and even amusing) street-art campaign will be visible starting in mid-July in Northeast and Northwest DC public spaces and on flyers and T-shirts in clubs throughout the city. For photographer Abby Greenawalt, who shot the campaign, the creatives were ideal inspiration. “Being a DJ is part of who they are—it’s very personal,” she says. “I wanted to capture emotions that aren’t always associated with these individuals.”

So check it out, look for more to come, and remember that a DJ is not your personal iPod!

put your foot in my nikes.

A tune as catchy and captivating as it is inspirational, Maino's "All the Above" tells his motivating story. This Brooklyn-born rapper emerged from prison in 2003 and founded Hustle Hard Entertainment. He decided to pursue music and found breakout success in first single "Hi Hater" (2008). "All the Above" speaks about how Maino overcame his struggles and hardships by always hustlin' and keeping his head in the game. He never gave up. The narrative is accented by a fantastic T-Pain hook and Just Blaze's done-up production. This song has been stuck in my head for a good while and will probably remain there.

honey you scared yourself.

I've always liked the atmosphere at Solly's Tavern. I enjoy small and intimate shows, plus when I played there it served as a relaxing environment. As I watched Honey House set up on Monday night, I waited in anticipation for what I would hear. Because this was their first show I wasn't sure what to expect.

This is what they say:

Honey House is trying to bring back American Rock & Roll. The swagger, the danger, the mystery. The House are giving it a go. They're walking down that hallway baby. They've been rehearsing in Chinatown for months, crafting their sound like a blacksmith sweating over hot coals. Frontman Jeremy Mohler churns out poems in a baritone croon, lead guitarist Denmark Luceriaga is incendiary. Matthew Moroney's smooth finger-picked bass grooves with drummer Josh Davis' freightrain of drums.

My first impression was that they were put-together, eclectic, solid, and classic. Though they seem heavily influenced by 90's alternative rock, think Wilco/Jakob Dylan/Ryan Adams, they bring something unique with them. The instrumentation was great. I loved the acoustic-electric, the Rickenbacker bass, and the use of a broad range of dynamics. Vocally it was intense and emotive, with some nice harmonies thrown in by Moroney. I also thought the percussion stood out and was inventive.

photo credit: Maryanne Drury

Overall, it was a great first show. They really got into it with the last two songs and started to jam. I hope to see more of that in the future. Honey House are definitely ones to watch as they continue to feel things out and progress.

unhappy girl, you're out of time.

Another band that has taken on various genres, Primal Scream have been a go-to for me lately. This Scottish group formed in 1982 and continues to this day. Their early & jangly stuff will probably always be my favorite, so I will speak here about their debut album. Sonic Flower Groove (1987) was written by ex-Jesus and Mary Chain Bobby Gillespie, and by Jim Beattie. Beattie left the band after this album, thus accounting for some of the differences in sound.

the anniversary.

Happy 1st Birthday to the Radiobolical blog!
thanks to everyone for a year's worth of inspiration.

you're in the mix with nouveau riche.

Steve Bock and Andrew Wallace are two of the nicest guys I know. Also known as Steve Starks and Nacey, these fixtures in the District music and party circuit have put out an EP that packs the heat. The Starks & Nacey EP is an ambitious collection that manages to hit all the right notes. As DJs and producers, Starks and Nacey never fail to deliver innovative and fun material. Taking cues from house, electro, and hip-hop these tracks will keep you dancing. Recently, they have been generating a high level of hype, and hopefully they continue to receive the attention they deserve.


Be sure to catch them, with fellow Nouveau Riche DJ Gavin Holland, on the last Saturday of each month.

DOWNLOAD HERE

treat me like i fucking matter.

Emotion is what I notice right off the bat about The Laughing Man. This DC-based group puts feeling into everything they do and exude and air of living in the moment. Their show on Monday at DC9 was no exception. The simple set-up of one guitar, one bass, and one drum kit translates to elegance on stage, especially with the addition of a sax solo. At first listen, the music may seem to have a hard edge, but underneath there are many layers including influences of jazz, funk, and soul. This infuses the tunes with a bit of a retro vibe. The vocals sit in the front of the mix and add melodic pieces to a heavier background. Singer/guitarist Brandon Moses shows personality and raw passion with his role, while drummer Michael Harris and bassist Luke Stewart mesh well to keep the beat and increase the funky feel. All in all, DC9 was an intimate setting where the real elements of The Laughing Man showed through to reveal a unique band. I look forward to an interview with them in the near future.

The Paper Chase, from Texas, headlined. This noise rock outfit is definitely more loud and alternative than The Laughing Man. Though they are a bit more hardcore than what I usually choose to listen to, they put on a good and energetic show where the music really stood out.

[CROSSPOSTED ON READYSETDC]

walking back to you is the hardest thing that i can do.

After hearing snippets of The Jesus and Mary Chain for years, but not knowing who was behind the music, they came to my attention when I bought a Filter Mag in the summer of 2005. I was drawn to the article by the unique band name and I proceeded to read a fantastic interview with singer and guitarist Jim Reid. Since then, I have only become increasingly enamored with the Scottish shoegaze/post-punk band. From their formation in 1983 until their near-decade long disbandment in 1998, the JMC spanned a wide range of sounds and genres. The often volatile partnership between brothers Jim and William Reid was able to produce musical genius.


The JAMC's first two studio albums are vastly different from one another. Psychocandy (1985) begins on a semi-quiet note with the veiled "Just Like Honey," made especially brilliant by Bobby Gillespie's percussion. But, it is quicky noticeable that this album is all about feedback as it continues to build up. What makes it unique is that melody is never far from the forefront. No matter how much noise they made, the reverberating vocals and underlying gentleness still manage to show through. With Darklands (1987) came a shift to softer guitars and electronic drums. It has a much more mellow sound, but they executed the change with ease, losing nothing musically. In my opinion, it is often times more listenable than Psychocandy, but neither is inherently "better" than the other.

The following album, Automatic (1989), is a sort of mixture of the other two. It includes "Head On," which became a classic cover by The Pixies. Although it has not received as much attention, perhaps for its less abrasive and more synth-heavy approach, I still greatly appreciate the songs and sounds.

Notorious for short gigs and antagonistic shoegaze tactics, like performing with their backs to the audience, a Jesus and Mary Chain show was often enough to incite a riot. They were simply always a band who did what they wanted. That is, up until the drama became too much and William Reid walked off stage in 1998, angry that Jim was in no state to perform. Luckily, the brothers seem to have reconciled and they continue to exude their trademark effortless cool as they currently work on new music.

Links:
Never Understand (1985)
Just Like Honey live (1985)
April Skies live (from Darklands)
Take it (1989)

For extended listening, I highly recommend the compilation The Power of Negative Thinking: B-Sides & Rarities (2008).

the wait is over baby, you're free to go.

California experimental/pop/rock group, dios (malos), make music that is both simple and good. The self-titled album dios (2004) has helped me through some recent sleepless nights. It is mellow and listenable, but still intelligent enough to hold interest. Who else can call to mind both Animal Collective and the Beach Boys?



My favorite song right now:

and it's all in the way that you hold up your head.

US Royalty, a DC based rock band, have so much local hype that any blog I write won't compare. But, after tonight's wild, Jameson-infused performance I really want to speak on one of my favorite district groups. Bringing in my own perspective, they are an extremely talented, friendly, and fashionable group of guys who are always down for some hijinks after a show.

The exact genre of their tunes is really undefinable because they draw from so many different influences. Hints of classic rock and R&B blend with pop-caliber hooks. They are very vintage to me. Live, they light up the stage, all working together to bring energy and create flawless sound. John Thornley's soulful vocals are reminiscent of past rock bands where it was actually important to be able to carry a tune. While John is handling lead vocals, keys, harmonica, and tambourine, his brother Paul is on lead guitar. Paul is one of the best guitarists I've seen and he also throws in backing vocals. Jacob Michael and Luke Adams contribute rhythmical bass and drums, completing the foursome.

US Royalty really seem to have the skills and drive to succeed on a great scale. They are definitely ones to watch. Check out their tunes on Myspace. Here is a video of my first favorite USR song, "Raincoats":



John Thornley and Ryan Wakeman also throw an amazing, chill weekly every Wednesday at Chi Cha Lounge.

you and tequila make me crazy.

Soon, I will be working at a place that I truly support. It is an Atlas District restaurant/bar, the H Street Country Club. This establishment will feature Tex-Mex food, unique drink options, and a gaming area that includes pool, shuffleboard, skeeball, and 9 holes of indoor miniature golf.

The setting radiates a whimsical aura, with each detail artistically thought out. For example, one of the mini-golf holes boasts Marion Barry as The Awakening. This is definitely a place where relaxation, letting loose, and fun are encouraged. It is an ironic play on the hoity-toity exclusivity of country clubs. No reservations will be taken, but HSCC will be available for private parties.

There is a no-fuss downstairs menu, with low-priced bar food and a more Texan focus. Upstairs they pulls all the stops including duck and lamb entrees and delicious pairings. The wine list is amazing and the house drinks are complex. There are 20 types of tequila and an endless list of new things to try.

And since this is leaking all over the internet, I expect to see all of you out there for the Grand Opening, next week, on May 27th. Get ready for the excitement!

1335 H Street NE

Washington DC 20002

202.399.HSCC (4722)

http://www.thehstreetcountryclub.com/

he's phony, she's fake...

...that's the type of people I hate.

I am not known to be Jadakiss's biggest fan, but this song is highly addictive. The real gon' win, the fake gon' lose.

my thoughts are getting banal.

When I started REALLY listening to Blur, Parklife (1994) was my favorite of their albums and I still thought Oasis were the superior group. A lot has changed in the past 3 years. I adore Blur and cannot stop revisiting Modern Life Is Rubbish (1993). Every song is meticulous. In fact, my blog name comes from the line "She's a twentieth century girl" out of "For Tomorrow."

I would really love to see Damon Albarn, Graham Coxon, Alex James, & Dave Rowntree performing together again. I'll leave the music to speak for itself, and conclude with lyrics from "Blue Jeans," one of my favorite songs ever.

and don't give up on me yet/ dont think i'm walking out of this/ she don't mind/ whatever i say, whatever i say/ i don't really wanna change a thing/ i wanna stay this way forever.

Edit 5/20/2009: Blur have announced reunion shows and plan to add US and European dates. Yes!

breaking the ice.

It all started when WMUC's own Andrew Quang asked me if I wanted free tickets to Jeremy Jay at the Velvet Lounge. I said "sure" and the rest is history. I ended up seeing the band and then another solo set at WMUC. Exactly opened, but they deserve their own entry for me to explain them, so I will begin with just Jeremy.


At first glance, Jeremy reminded me of Alex Kapranos with his sunglasses, striped shirt, and Euro vibe. Because he is an artist on K Records, I expected a pop show, but I got a bit more. The band was extremely energetic, jumping up and down and dancing while they played. Instruments were interchanged and twee pop gold was belted. Most of the songs on Slow Dance (2009) are catchy life, learning, and love stories set to the beat. I really enjoyed the set and "new-to-me" music.

It was also a treat to be able to see the solo set and hear stripped down versions of the songs. This performance had a more innocent and angelic vibe to it. I liked the raw simplicity that allowed the vocals to shine.


Last.fm describes Jeremy as "elusive...Like Buddy Holly, Peter Pan and John Hughes movies rolled into one. He’s pure Storybook." In my experience, he is one of the more pleasant performers I've had the pleasure of having a conversation with. But, it's true, he loves his Warhol Superstars, Pretty In Pink, Neverending Story, and The Goonies.

Beautiful Rebel

don't tell me to try to control myself.

Recently, I have reignited my interest in The Popguns, a British jangle pop group hailing from Brighton. Formed in 1986 and active for a decade, The Popguns were endlessly both catchy and emotional. Vocalist Wendy Morgan is a true star with her effortless ability to wail sentimental and sometimes snarky lyrics while rocking a rickenbacker. To quote another blogger, "She is able to give seemingly the most innocent phrase just the right amount of spite, hurt or tenderness it deserves." I've been listening to "Don't Smile" a lot for that very reason.




I highly recommend The Popguns best-of entitled Another Year, Another Address. Released in 1996 by Cherry Red Records, this album includes many rare and amazing songs from the band's time at Midnight Music.

cuz we had it, we was magic.

On a bit more of a top-40 tip, "Knock You Down" by Keri Hilson featuring Ne-Yo and Kanye West, is a killer track that I discovered while randomly watching 106 & Park. This song is undeniably catchy. The harmonies on the chorus are perfectly arranged and addicting, Ne-Yo's verse sounds great, and Kanye has done something to restore my faith in him. The song tells an honest love story, with each person giving their point of view. This all-star line-up has delivered another hit and the video adds depth.

does she love you? you suppose.

The Brian Jonestown Massacre last night at 9:30 Club was hands down one of the best shows I have ever attended. In terms of technique, they cannot be matched. I was impressed at the synchronicity and ambiance that the eight-piece group brought to the stage. Those who have seen DiG! (2004) know that the BJM have a drug addled and violence infused reputation. None of this was apparent as they breezed through their two hour set. They all just seemed like a bunch of old friends coming together to make spectacular music.


I was incredibly excited to see a BJM near to the old line-up, with Matt Hollywood and Joel Gion on the stage. Matt was able to perform some of his original songs and Joel added his bizarre and fun style of tambourine to the mix. Anton was his usual eccentric and neurotic self, but he was all business about the music. His voice was flawless, which is hard to believe with all the smoking and drinking that was going on.

My favorite parts were "Who?," "When Jokers Attack," and "That Girl Suicide." The west coast rock/neo-psychedelic sound is something that they have perfected. They managed to end in an even more amazing fashion, with the long version of "Swallowtail." As each member left the stage, they propped their guitar against their amp and let it feed back. They each said a separate thank you and walked off. Then, the tech went around and turned each amp off individually, letting the sound peter out to nothing. The house lights came on, but no one was ready to leave.

Afterwards, I headed to the Velvet Lounge where we were later met by Frankie Teardrop and Collin Hegna. It was awesome to have a chance to chat with them about the show and their experience with the band. I was a bit disappointed that Anton and Matt never showed up, but apparently the rest of the BJM was back at the house either sleeping or arguing. Regardless, it was a great night for music.

Watch:
When Jokers Attack

welcome to miami.

Winter Music Conference 2009 was no exception to the fact that MIA really pops off like in the Will Smith joint. Over a decade after the song was released, I still heard it in nearly every cab I took. The trip was filled with sun, surf, spa, sippin', and sets by some of the world's most notable DJs. The party was pretty much non-stop so I'm just gonna talk about some of my favorite moments.

A lot of the action went down at the Gansevoort rooftop Plunge. This was an awesome spot because the ocean is in view, there is a rooftop pool, and, well, we saw Dennis Rodman. Ca$$idy and Fabiana DJed here on our last day in town.


The Scion parties were nice because they were in the sand. The high point of these two days was definitely the finale duo of A-track and DJ Mehdi.


My favorite parties were the Armani Exchange afternoon events and the Le Baron party at the Raleigh. Belvedere and Monster sponsored, to make things more amazing. Rye Rye stole the show with her performance at the AE party, reminding me why I love her so much. Le Baron featured Mattie Safer of The Rapture, DJ Medhi, and Erol Alkan. They killed it.


Before I knew it, it was our last night in Miami. Here we are sitting at Rokbar, anxiously awaiting heading to the Mad Decent party to see Diplo, etc. Lil' Jon ended up being the special guest. I especially enjoyed Trouble & Bass, though, because they had one of the most energetic performances I have ever seen. Rusko also delivered an impressive set, but I couldn't krump to it.


Mad Decent started to get a little bit out of control (i.e. man in a dress on a bicycle on some kind of psychedelic drug(s)) so we went back to crash at the hotel. The next night as my flight landed I was tuckered out and so happy just to see the Washington Monument blinking at me. But I won't forget my first trip to Miami: Party in the city where the heat is on.

LINKS:
Miami
Shake it to the Ground

i will always be the outlaw for your love.

Ramesh Srivastava has still got it in terms of vocals, haunting melodies, and lyrical genius. The new Voxtrot track "Trepanation Party" makes this clear. The question is whether their newfound electronic sound stems from the undeclared absence of stellar guitarist Mitch Calvert. Ramesh addressed the band's quietude only in saying:

Regarding our absence, sometimes one needs to disappear in order to regroup; situations change and human beings are swept here and there by the marvelous ebb and flow of culture. And so, there can be only this: a return to a love of music.

I adore "Trepanation Party" for its metaphor and attention to an individual's reality. Voxtrot lyrics always find a way to have a resonance and relevance to my life, making me listen over and over again because of the connection. The music I would say is just okay, following along the heels of some kind of New Order or Depeche Mode cover. I think I could do without the new direction. In the end, I will always cherish the days of the Raised By Wolves EP, but this track does enough to keep me wanting more.

DOWNLOAD HERE
radio interview with ramesh

back it up on me.

I haven't felt so hyped about a song in a long time. "Neva Believe U" by Mavado, a Jamaican dancehall artist, has me dancing whether it's in my room or out in the club. I don't even usually like dancehall! Something about the key is perfect and the dirty lyrics add to the charm because everything sounds better in Jamaican Patois. This song was tweeted about by Diplo and made the rounds to me via DJ Gavin Holland. Looks like Gully God has a summer jam on his hands.



& for all kinds of hot joints, download the Nouveau Riche for DURKL mixtape free from http://durkl.com/.

we're too old. we're not old, old at all.

Last night I headed over to The Black Cat to check out Nunchucks and The Antlers. It's been a while since I've seen a band live without hearing any tracks first, so I just dove in. Ronald was gracious enough to comp me on the "food stamps list" so that us poor folk can stick together and see live music. His band, Nunchucks, are a high energy rock group hailing from the DC metro area. They are a solid group and put on a great show. The songs are catchy, they have coordinated moves, and had the backstage dancin' a bit. Check them out at www.myspace.com/nunchucksrock.

The Antlers, out of Brooklyn, have a more ambient sound. Their set had a very ethereal vibe to it. During "Bear" and "Two" my eyes were glued to the stage. The vocals were tender yet strong and the instrumentation suited the songs and set a mood. Look 'em up at www.myspace.com/theantlers or stream their full album here.

she asked me if i would ever fall.

Skywave are an amazing group from the 90's and early 2000's. Hailing from Fredericksburg, VA, they helped the resurrection of shoegaze in the United States. Every time some type of "shoegaze" is mentioned there is talk of derivation from The Jesus & Mary Chain and My Bloody Valentine, but Skywave definitely carve out their own place.

In terms of albums, I am partial to Took the Sun (1998). Each song is mesmerizing with its perfectly placed feedback, dissonance, and accentuating percussion. The guitars are layered with complexities and add so much to each track while the vocals work well to set an emotional tone. Not one song sounds the same as the one before it, but there is an innate cohesiveness to the album. In addition to the below song, I highly recommend "Walking on Stars" and "Sanddune".

"Sixteen" -


The music is still alive, the bassist went on to form A Place To Bury Strangers. They come off as a bit more abrasive to me, but are still very very good. Ceremony, another solid effort, came from two other members. I just can't help but keep a little special place in my heart for Skywave.

go somewhere private where we can discuss fashion.

On the heels of Mercedes Benz Fashion Week I've decided to sum it up with LISSY TRULLIE.



Trullie, hipster model turned musician, was present at the La Baron party at the Bowery. She also DJs at Paul Sevigny's hotspot Beatrice. Lissy is worth checking out just to see that not everyone in that scene is so vapid. Her songwriting skills are actually pretty decent and her voice is incredibly unique.

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In terms of New York party spots, I would also highly recommend Mr. West. One of the best hip-hop DJs I've ever heard and a pretty relaxing atmosphere make this a club frequented by Kanye West, Pharrell Williams, and Mary J. Blige when they are in town.

Most fun fashion show? I would say this is a tie between Jill Stuart and William Rast. The Jill Stuart show featured these amazing and sophisticated black lace pieces that I could see myself wearing. It also helped that The Yeah Yeah Yeahs and Blonde Redhead accompanied the girls as they strutted down the runway. Justin Timberlake's line, William Rast, left something to be desired clothing-wise. The "New America" theme just didn't do it for me, but I was starstruck by the Hilton's, JC Chasez, Jessica Biel, Anna Wintour, and Carine Roitfeld.

Fashion Week was crazy, but it's good to be home.

please don't throw it all away.

My New Favorite Song:


When I was doing my radio show over the summer I came across a demo. A song called "You're Making This Hard" by Irish indie band Sweet Jane. The song was reminiscent of Darklands (1987) era The Jesus & Mary Chain and featured a duo of male and female vocals, steady bass drum beats, and driving guitars. Unfortunately, they changed it up a lot for the version in their EP, which can be previewed on their myspace.

"Blackboots Blackhearts" is the title track on the EP. It is really the style of stuff I'm into right now. In lieu of something lovey and valentiney, I'll go with something that reminds me of exactly how I feel. Just the right blend of melancholy and feedback.