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.