i see paris/ i see france/ i see you makin' the face again.

I have a harder time finding kindred spirits in the indie rock of today versus more post punk and britpop influences. So I refuse to let my writer's block keep me from posting about one of my favorite current bands!  Tokyo Police Club is a group that I've been waiting to hear live since my ears first stumbled upon "Breakneck Speed" and "Wait Up (Boots of Danger)" [from Champ (2010)] in a friends car back in the day. Nostalgia is one of the biggest factors in what music really resonates with me and Tokyo Police Club's lyrics tend to strike that factor. Thinking back to that moment in the car, I probably had a different initial reaction than my current feelings to the lyrics "I remember when our voices used to sound the exact same/ Now we just translate.", but I was definitely drawn to the songs immediately.

Going into the show on May 13th at Black Cat, I tried not to let my hopes get too high. So many album reviews were saying that the newest album Forcefield (2014) pales in comparison to "their best album" Champ. In my eyes, this is a wrong way of looking at a band, but I can be guilty of it too.  I try to go in with a clean slate and welcome an evolution in sound, so I had been listening to Forcefield to prepare myself. A show is never as fun for me if I don't know most of the songs and I grew quite fond of "Argentina", "Hot Tonight", and "Miserable". The riffs,  rebellion to inhibitions and pretension, and still-solid lyrics were aesthetically pleasing to me. The live show turned out to be energetic and diverse. They played a good mix of their music from over the years and was authentic with just the right twist. Dave Monks has the perfect onstage balance of nervous energy, humor, and even the balls to come out and sing "Tesselate" acoustically with no microphone. This would be a band I would love to tour with or work with in any capacity.

breakneck speed live at black cat

hot tonight live at black cat

setlist

wait up (boots of danger) dog music video

argentina lyric music video

pps.
"we share bottles we share gum/ when you smile you smile with all your teeth at once/ and when you smile with all your teeth/ yeah i'm done."

the walkmen go out.

The Walkmen's performance on Saturday night was their last DC show before a self proclaimed "extreme hiatus". I was excited to finally see them, yet sad that it would be under those circumstances. We did not know going in that the new Dock 5 at Union Market venue was outside. The cold had us questioning who would book an outdoor venue in DC the day before December (with only one bar!!). Luckily, The Walkman delivered with their performance.

The group was able to captivate a freezing audience with their hits. My favorite of which was the closer "In The New Year". In hindsight, I wish I hadn't left before the encore.

setlist
in the new year

picture me and then you'll start watching/ watching forever...

July 28th's New Order show at Merriweather Post Pavilion was easily one of the most captivating performances I have ever seen. At times I was in tears at the aesthetic produced by the combination of sound and visuals. New Order's unique blend of post-punk, dance, and alternative electro came to life on stage, egged on by an eagerly awaiting crowd. Even after all this time, the songs still sound perfect. "Age of Consent", "Bizarre Love Triangle", and "Blue Monday" really brought the memories flowing back. The finale of "Temptation" was my personal favorite, and really got the people going.

The three songs used for the encore continued to break with the rumor that Bernard Sumner doesn't like to play Joy Division. The encore ended up being a tribute of sorts to Ian Curtis. As time goes on, it is most apparent that Sumner and Curtis both played integral roles in the Joy Division post-punk sound and writing process. Sumner was able to carry out an unparalleled style of music after Curtis' tragic suicide. While former bassist Peter Hook is not pleased that his band mates are going forward as New Order, his solo work does not quite conform to the same standards.

All in all, this show had everything it takes to be epic. Nostalgia, great music, stage presence, visual appeal, and positivity. I hope for the opportunity to see New Order perform again.

setlist

rip imperial china.

I was fortunate enough to catch the tail end of Imperial China's final show Wednesday night at the Black Cat. Rushing over after work afforded me to hear the concluding three songs and it was totally worth it. Their individual blend of electronic samples, guitars, and resounding percussion created a pleasant post-punk product. This is unique because they were able to sound much bigger than a three piece. This show was no different, as everyone was hyped on stage and playing with exaggeration.

Many old-school DC heads were in attendance for this last hurrah. Folks returned from Pennsylvania and California in order to catch the band's last moments. It was great to see them go out in style and with a positive attitude. Having known the split was coming, they were able to plan a blowout last set that concluded in throwing the drum kit through the wall and selling leftover merch for "whatever you want to pay".

for more on their background/ the last six years:
washington post
washington city paper

new york got me.

Earlier this week I headed up to NYC to meet up with friends and have a pseudo-vacation. This trip reinforced my plan to branch out of DC. The increasingly underwhelming art and culture scene in Washington suffers from an overbearing focus on politics, the transient nature of the area, and lack of venues to create/debate cultural dialogues. Three days in New York revitalized me from my stupor and gave me faith that I can stop my laziness with a little inspiration. I was always the person who said I like NYC as a place to visit, but could never picture myself living there. The fast pace, which was a deterrent in the past, proves to be more of a motivator.  At this point, it seems like leaving DC is possibly the best option to make some strides in my aspirations.

On a less serious side, here are a few things to check out in NYC on any random Sunday:
*Start with spectacularly delicious margaritas and Mexican at Barrio Chino.
*Meander to free shows in the lobby at the Ace Hotel- picture ambient electronic sounds (Ghenghis Hans & Color War were there the night I went), kitschy decor, a bar, and the bustle of a busy hotel environment.
*Try to get into "Not Your Standard Bingo" at the Standard Grill- huge punch bowl, bingo, karaoke, dancing on tables, shots, shame, general tomfoolery and camaraderie. 
*Finish off the night with a trip to the swanky and sexy Le Bain on the rooftop of the Standard.

PS. My new favorite song- "No Angels".

i'm not asking for a storm.

I am about a year late on this record and album, but it is too good not to write about. First Aid Kit are Swedish sisters (Joanna and Klara) with a knack for American folk music. "Emmylou" is a single off of The Lion's Roar (2012). I highly recommend the whole album.

The concept and artistry in this song is something that I rarely find. Rich harmonies and steel guitar relay the haunting story of Gram Parsons and Emmylou Harris' partnership along with the great love and influence June Carter and Johnny Cash had for one another. Nostalgia comes flowing from the video, which was filmed in Joshua Tree where Parsons requested his ashes be scattered when he died young at age 26. The sisters somehow just "get" it.

they make patti smith cry
the lion's roar live

sound city.

Dave Grohl has directed a documentary about the legendary Sound City Studios. Formerly in Van Nuys, California, Sound City produced more than 100 gold and platinum albums from 1960 until closing in 2011. Artists included Neil Young, Buckingham Nicks, Fleetwood Mac, Tom Petty, Pat Benetar, Rick Springfield, Nirvana, Rage Against the Machine, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Johnny Cash, and more. Grohl intertwines first person accounts from the artists and employees with historical footage and a soundtrack of songs recorded at the studio.

What really resonates in this film is the technological shift from analog to digital and its influence on the studio, artist, and recorded music in general. The Neve 8028 console was innovative in 1973 at the time it was purchased by Sound City for $75,000. It played a large role in fostering the unique production and drums present in recordings. Problems arose when analog techniques could not stand up to Pro Tools and its earlier incarnations. Computers came into the picture, tape turned to compact disc, and studios were expected to do a complete overhaul to keep up. Sound City kept afloat as long as they could after the change, but in the end they simply didn't have the funds or business to stay open. Grohl ended up purchasing the console and producing a reunion album bringing together Sound City artists.

The debate on digital v. analog is complex. There are obvious innovations made possible by digital recording techniques. It is easier to fix mistakes or chop up parts of a track and put them back together. From hip-hop sampling to auto tune these new possibilities leave me with mixed feelings. A part of me prefers analog methods because it forces the artist to be good at their craft. As a singer, I think it's important to actually be capable of performing the music that is being put out under the artist's image. Otherwise, I'm supportive of new additions allowing music to progress in different directions. Digital technology has progressed to a point that home recording is a reality for the masses. I truly do appreciate that I have professional-level production at my fingertips for a nominal fee.

i am nothing without pretend.

Sunday night, Baltimore two-piece Wye Oak played at Black Cat. I have been a fan for a while so it was exciting to see them on their closeout show for this US tour.

Along with a few new songs, they played much of Civilian (2011) and finished with their classic cover of The Kinks' "Strangers". My favorite song was the title track. Jenn Wasner's strong haunting vocals and Andy Stack's ambidextrous backing additions made for an entertaining combination.

i got it, you got it, she's got it.

I haven't been to a show in a while, partially due to laziness and apathy to the current popular music. My friend and I had planned on attending Hopscotch festival, but that plan got sidelined as well. When I found out that festival headliner The Jesus and Mary Chain would be playing at the 9:30 Club I jumped at the opportunity to see one of my favorite bands who of course broke up in 1998/99 and have been playing sporadically since then.

The audience of the sold out show was more diverse in age than you would see at most 9:30 events. It was nice to see everything from original fans to younger people who discovered them after they disbanded. Reunions are tricky, as is the controversy of fifty year old musicians taking the stage. Watching recordings of The Jesus and Mary Chain at Coachella in 2007 I wasn't pleased with the sound and so it's a bit nerve wracking to think that it might not be up to all the hype. Well, they surpassed my expectations.

With these types of shows the vibe can be more important than the song choice. For a band notorious for acrimony, they seemed appreciative towards the crowd and put on a great performance. I would have loved to hear more from Darklands (1987), but as the band explained they wanted to put together a setlist full of crowd-pleasing hits for this tour. It was an enjoyable show and I hope they put out their new music soon so I can see what direction they are moving into.

setlist

SXSW 2012.

After the past few years vacationing at Winter Music Conference in Miami and Coachella in Palm Springs, I decided to take the trip to Austin for South By Southwest. My friends and I didn't buy badges, which ended up saving us a lot of money. We were still able to see pretty much everyone we wanted to by RSVPing to events. Here are my favorite parts...

A. Performances [chronological order].
1. Star Slinger at Mohawk- DJ set
2. Miike Snow at Stubbs
3. Ramesh [formerly of Voxtrot] at the old Emo's space, The JR
4. Dry the River at the Spotify House
5. Zulu Winter at Mohawk
6. Girls at Stubbs
7. Diplo at the 1100 Warehouse
8. Black Star at Google
9. The DC guys, US Royalty at Virgin House
10. Sofi at Virgin House & The W Hotel

B. Meeting interesting people, spending time with friends, white picket fences, and unlimited barbecue.

i sang "i love you, but i have to cut you loose".

Last night, I had the privilege of seeing Youth Lagoon perform to a sold-out crowd at The Red Palace. While Trevor Powers claimed he was sick, he didn't miss a beat as he played the entirety of the record. I was curious as to how the music would translate live, but it was a non-issue (my sole, minute criticism is that I wanted to hear more bells for the grandiose end of "Bobby").

Powers' live persona lends perspective to this quote:

Youth Lagoon isn't me. It's merely a part of me. I was in and out of different bands in high school and always tried to define myself by what music I played. I tried to find a sense of meaning by being in a band. But it wasn't until this last year - when I realized I was more than just music - that I was able to create music that means something to me. And that is Youth Lagoon.

He showed a far more chipper side than I think many expected. Plus, he hung around to sign merchandise and converse with eager stragglers (me included). I anxiously await what's next because along with Beirut's The Rip Tide, The Year of Hibernation is pretty much the only new music that I have on constant repeat.

don't have to be so sad about it, people will say.

Another show I thought I'd never see came to fruition last Thursday night. The Glands played a spectacular set at Black Cat backstage. The mysterious band from Athens, GA had suddenly added a short series of tour dates down the east coast.

I arrived to a buzzing section of fans, we were all wondering exactly what we were in for. That turned out to be an epic setlist of most songs off of Double Thriller (1998) and The Glands (2000), including vinyl-only tracks. The guitars and vocals made the overall message of the music even more vivid. Ross Shapiro's sardonic lyrics somehow poke fun at depressing subject matter, making the songs seem more cheerful, but still extremely relatable. These songs make me desperately hope for a new album of someone else explaining my feelings to me. Regardless, it was a priceless show and I'm really glad I got to see them play. They were extremely gracious to the crowd, playing a two-song encore, selling their own merch, and staying to chat.

Below is the gang performing my all-time-favorite: "Fortress".

i will not hear you out, you tried to drown me once.

I have found a bit of a kindred spirit in Trevor Powers' Youth Lagoon project. The songs are an introspective, honest, and sometimes eerie look at the ups and downs of living and emotion.



"For my whole life I've dealt with extreme anxiety." says Powers. "Not anxiety about passing a test or somewhat normal things, but weird.. bizarre things. Things that only I know. I sometimes feel like I'm literally being eaten up inside. So I started writing these songs. Not just songs about my anxiety, but about my past and my present. Songs about memories, and all those feelings that those bring. I know that if I can be honest about what is inside my mind, there will be others that will be able to relate to it."

2011 hrc national dinner.

Last night, I had the pleasure of attending the HRC National Dinner. It was a fabulous evening focused on civil and human rights. This was HRC president Joe Solmonese's last dinner before he plans to step down. Among guests were President Barack Obama, Mayor Mike Bloomberg, Sarah Jessica Parker, Cyndi Lauper, and Betty DeGeneres.

The speeches focused on marriage equality, hospital visitation, hate crimes legislation, and of course the repeal of Don't Ask Don't Tell. It was an amazing night, seeing everyone come out in support for equal rights.


text and video of the speech
huffington post article
cyndi lauper

there's no such thing as dragonfly pills.

I will be covering this song at a few upcoming shows with Last Tide. So excited to be singing again. Love the minimalism and high harmony.

COACHELLA.

one week.

the days whispered and shouted.

"Plains" by Wye Oak became my new favorite song yesterday when a friend sent it to me. I'll mostly let it speak for itself, but this Baltimore duo have really caught my attention with the harmony they make between soft & loud, and between languid & accelerative.

live NPR podcast (black cat).

they use smiles to bury you.

A curious band, Esben and the Witch, played Thursday night at the Red Palace. The English trio took the stage with a sense of the fairytale and a gothic touch. It was almost like a dream sequence. Vocalist Rachel Davies let her long hair flow over her face as she sang strong smooth words and provided the sole percussion. The set was magical in a way, and though they aren't shoegaze in a traditional sense, their detached synchronization worked well for the music. They have been signed to Matador, and I would like to see them continue to garner positive attention.

video:
they use smiles to bury you
marching song

i'm comin' home for you.

DC hometown favorites US Royalty just released their debut album, Mirrors. Their sound has evolved from their earlier work, but their influences remain similar. My favorite track is "Monte Carlo".



spin article/mp3

and i'm asking you, can you still love me...

Photo by Anouck Bertin.

Colonel K Speaks informed me this afternoon that Ramesh Srivastava has recently released a solo EP. This is exciting because its the first music he's made public since the dissolution of Voxtrot.

The following tracks can be streamed on his website:

1. the king
2. romeo (void)
3. recording heathen earth

As usual, Srivastiva's lyrics and vocals are on-point. He keeps things fairly simple, with strangely pastoral string arrangements and acapella segments. "Romeo (Void)" counters this with electronics and a drum machine. It seems he is experimenting with what sound he wants to move into. I am glad to see him going forward individually and am, for the most part, pleased with the result. I hope these tracks will be up for download/purchase at some point.