Exitfare

Exitfare has moved

2010-03-06T20:23:00.001-05:00

Please find us a real blog again at http://exitfaremag.wordpress.com/. Update your bookmarks, etc etc

Exitfare is still dead...

2010-01-01T00:01:00.000-05:00

... but not really.

Go here (or don't, we don't really care): http://exitfareisdead.tumblr.com/

THE END.

2009-10-18T03:09:00.000-04:00

WE'RE MOVING ON. DETAILS TO COME.

Silver Swans

2009-09-23T19:38:00.002-04:00

"Realize the Ghost" [Audio]

Everyone has a different side, especially musicians, and it's always great to hear that. We all know Ann Yu as the vocalist for LoveLikeFire and are unique ability to create dramatic and memorable songs, but in her side project Silver Swans (with Jon Waters), she shows her keen sense of anchoring dancefloor fillers with beautifully swirling hollow vocals and intricate electro instrumentals that lift you into a dream state...a constant, yet enjoyable struggle between vocals and electronics.

Their debut album Realize the Ghost is out in January on San Francisco-based Tricycle Records.

them:youth "Bows and Arrows"

2009-09-22T17:35:00.003-04:00

Myspace // "Halo" [Audio]

Splitting the difference between bands like Delphic and Doves, London-based them:youth may be young, but they are already creating quite a buzz throughout the capital. John Kennedy and Zane Lowe are already on board, and the band's first single dropped on the uber-hip Another Music=Another Kitchen. The good times for them are only going to get better.

Lemons

2009-09-21T13:07:00.003-04:00

Myspace // "Vamos a Considerar" [Audio]

Monterrey, located in NE Mexico, is the hottest spot right now in the country for new music, and it's across genre lines as well, from dance to acoustic to indie. It's truly an exciting time to be a fan of MX indie rock. Lemons, who have just released their debut EP del Uno al 5, plays an immediately classic sound reminiscent of the Strokes or the Kooks. I am really pleased with what I've heard so far, so let's hope they make it to the States sometime soon.

Fuck Her, or the Terrorists Win

2009-09-18T15:58:00.003-04:00

Last FM // "Hipsters" [Audio]

The two musicians that form the nucleus of Mexican group Fuck Her, or the Terrorists Win have their hands in a lot of quality groups, like Album, Club Comfort, and Mr. Raccoon, but this act, which only began as a quick project on the side, has already created a ton of buzz. It's not out of the question to call them the MX Postal Service, as sonically they are very similar. As well, Roberto Polo is similar to Ben Gibbard in many ways. While there are currently no plans to record more material, there are also no plans NOT to record more. To grab the bands only EP, visit The Poni Republic. It's free to download, like much of the music on this brilliant site.

Jamie T "Chaka Demus"

2009-09-16T12:37:00.001-04:00

Myspace

You might remember new track "Sticks N' Stones" from earlier this summer, a pure dose of summer fun showing that Mr. Treays had not lost his step one bit. Jamie T's second album, Kings and Queens, hit UK shelves last week -- this is the latest single from the disc.

"Chaka Demus" is also available as a standalone EP which contains the title track and three songs not found on the album.

Cancel the Astronauts

2009-09-14T01:30:00.002-04:00

Myspace // "Intervention" [Audio]

Scottish group Cancel the Astronauts has a firm grasp on playful indie rock, falling somewhere between the style of bands like the Strokes and the irreverence of some of their local counterparts like Come On Gang and We Were Promised Jetpacks, describing their music as "twisted love songs." Their debut EP is out now, and if you want a little sampling before making the purchase, head on over to their Last FM page to download several of their demos.

Manic Street Preachers "Jackie Collins Existential Question Time"

2009-09-11T12:12:00.003-04:00

Myspace

Coming out earlier this year in the UK, Journal for Plague Lovers continues on the same path as the Manics' previous effort: a late career call to arms reminding fans why the band has always been vital, and washing away the band taste that Know Your Enemy left in everyone's mouths.

While I was in England on the album's release date (on my 30th birthday, no less), other Stateside fans will get the opportunity to buy the new album at non-import prices this Tueaday when it official hits stores. Alternately, buying it here from the band will net you a ten song remix compilation as well. While the band's remixes have never been spectacular, this time around folks like Saint Etienne, Four Tet, and Patrick Wolf had their chance to do a reworking, so this one may be worth checking out.

Additionally, for the first time in a decade, the band will be touring the US, starting in Seattle. Dates below:

September
Mon-21: Seattle, WA @ Neumo’s
Tue-22: Vancouver, Canada @ The Commodore Ballroom
Thu-24: San Francisco, CA @ The Fillmore
Fri-25: Los Angeles, CA @ The Avalon
Mon-28: Denver, CO @ The Bluebird Theatre
Wed-30: Minneapolis, MN @ The Varsity Theatre

October
Thu-01: Chicago, IL @ The Metro
Fri-02: Detroit, MI @ The Majestic Theatre
Sun-04: Toronto, Canada @ The Phoenix Concert Theatre
Tue-06: Philadelphia, PA @ World Café Live
Wed-07: New York City, NY @ Webster Hall
Thu-08: Boston, MA @ Paradise Rock Club

May 68: New Song and We Have Band Tour

2009-09-10T12:53:00.003-04:00

Photo by Tom Cockram

Myspace // "Carla" [Audio]

Manchester dance pop/rockers May 68 are back with a new demo, and a string of tour dates with We Have Band. We been loving their music for the past several months around the Exitfare offices, and we're glad that more people are starting to catch on.

Thursday 10th September - MANCHESTER @ Ruby Lounge
Friday 11th September - LIVERPOOL @ Korova
Saturday 12th September - SHEFFIELD @ Plug
Tuesday 15th September - LONDON @ ICA
Friday 18th September - MANCHESTER (Friends of Mine) @ KRO Bar w/ LoveLikeFire

France + the Habsburgs

2009-09-02T12:26:00.001-04:00

Myspace // "Jenny is Connected" [Audio]

The influence of the Fall's Mark E. Smith can be felt far and wide, and I've always enjoyed the bands that wear their love for him on their sleeves, but even moreso, those bands that improve upon what he created are tops in my books. Some would way that's not hard to do, but bands like Elle Milano, Hatcham Social, and Sunderland's France + the Habsburgs have done wonders with Smith's aesthetics, totally reinventing the system to come up with something entirely their own.

Noise Beat Propaganda

2009-09-01T13:20:00.004-04:00

[Photo Credit: Dsek World]

Myspace // "Can't Let You Go" [Audio]

Mexicali is a border town on the Mexican side of the US/Mexico border, a city that straddles two worlds, one a developed nation and the other a developing one. Noise Beat Propaganda is a band that has their feet firmly planted in both worlds, even singing in both Spanish and English. The band's recently release debut EP We're in Love, Yeah Right, came out earlier this year on Poni Republic, and at times reminds me of such hyperactive indie bands like Johnny Foreigner, but there's is definitely something quite a bit different going on here.

Download the EP for free from Poni Republic.

Mumford and Sons "Little Lion Man"

2009-08-31T15:09:00.002-04:00

Myspace

If I am not mistaken, this is the band's first official video. Good times.

Los Romanticos de Zacatecas

2009-08-28T14:43:00.004-04:00

Myspace // "Nuestro Amor" [Audio]

Although most of the recent headlines about Mexico have involved drug wars and murders along the border, the country remains one with a vibrant indie music scene, one that seems to be undergoing quite a renaissance right now, something that economic and political strife is bound to do. It's been quite a mission, but thanks to the help of some great people, I have uncovered a host of amazing new bands coming out of Mexico.

One of those groups is Zacatecas-based Los Romanticos de Zacatecas, who have been influenced by the likes of the Strokes and other similar NY bands. The band's eponymous EP, released this year on netlabel Delhotel Records, is available in its entirety for free on the label's website. The five songs included within are fun, engaging, and honors their influences effectively.

Hello Seahorse!

2009-08-27T13:32:00.004-04:00

Myspace // "Bestia" [Audio]

It might be political and economic strife or it just may be a good time to be a musician, but it seems as though Mexico is going through a musical renaissance with a host of unique new groups popping up all over the country.

Hailing from Mexico City, three-piece Hello Seahorse! have been playing out for a few years and already have several releases under their belts, and they have played north of the border as well. This year's Bestia is their finest work yet, and shows that the group has a knack for crafting catchy, laid back electronic pop tunes. They are doing a number of dates in central Mexico this summer, but those of you in Chicago, look out for them at Logan Square Auditorium in November.

Check out the video for "Bestia" here.

Mellowdrone Returns

2009-08-26T14:59:00.003-04:00

Myspace // "Elephant" [Audio] // "Wherever You May Go" [Audio]

To be honest, I totally forgot about Mellowdrone. Their early EPs and first album were excellent pieces of dark electronic indie, but in the ultrafast world of new media and the internet, there are five promising new bands every day, and any group that goes dormant for even a few months is bound to be forgotten by many.

When Mellowdrone returned this year, it took me awhile to give them a fair shake. I was buried under by so much other stuff it was tough to pay attention to yet another band.

Listening to their new album, I am liking what I hear. It's pure Mellowdrone -- the band has not lost a step, and for all of you that may have forgotten about them, give them another chance.

Their new album Angry Bear is out now on Coming Home Records.

The Drums

2009-08-25T12:52:00.003-04:00

Myspace // "Don't Be a Jerk, Johnny" [Audio]

Not quite sure how to pin down Brooklyn's The Drums. Could they funtimecore? The tunes are catchy and fun, but in the least cheesy way possible. It makes you wonder how Brooklyn could ever be grumpy when you have a band this positive, that's shining this bright. They somehow filter Britpop through '60s American garage and make it work.

If Surfside 6 were on the air in 2009, we know who would be doing the theme song.

The Rakes New Album Gets a US Release

2009-08-21T00:48:00.003-04:00

Myspace // "1989" [Audio]

They emerged at the top of their scene five years ago, and while many of the new wave-redux bands have fallen by the wayside, it seems as though The Rakes have held on with consistently solid material. Their third album, Klang, has been available since March in the UK, but it will get a digital release on 20 October in the US. This will be coupled with a short tour hitting several markets across North America.

OCT 31 - LOS ANGELES, CA - THE ROXY
NOV 1 - SAN FRANCISCO, CA - SLIMS
NOV 3 - SALT LAKE CITY, UT - THE URBAN LOUNGE
NOV 4 - DENVER, CO - THE BLUEBIRD
NOV 6 - MINNEAPOLIS, MN - TRIPLE ROCK
NOV 7 - CHICAGO, IL - DOUBLE DOOR
NOV 9 - TORONTO, ON - MOD CLUB
NOV 10 - MONTREAL, QC - PETIT CAMPUS
NOV 11 - BOSTON, MA - GREAT SCOTT
NOV 12 - NEW YORK, NY - HIGHLINE BALLROOM

Chew Lips Get Remixed

2009-08-20T00:26:00.001-04:00

Myspace // "Salt Air" (Plastician remix)[Audio]

Last month, London-based electronic popsters Chew Lips released their second single on Kitsune, "Salt Air." It's yet another promising statement from the group who have quickly become one of the in demand outfits in England. Posted below is a remix from Plastician, which is unavailable on this single.

Manila Chapter

2009-08-19T00:27:00.003-04:00

Myspace // "Television" [Audio]

My love of former Newcastle stalwarts Kubichek! has only grown since a they disbanded a couple years ago. Three of the four guys went on to form the solid Black Flashes, but nary a peep has been heard from them in quite some time. Recently, former Kubichek! singer Alan McDonald has been playing guitar in Manila Chapter, a band that retains some of the flavor of his former outfit, but also looks into the future with new textures and new sounds. It's early days for them, but you can listen to three choice demos on their Myspace now.

Bombay Bicycle Club "Magnet"

2009-08-18T13:29:00.003-04:00

Myspace

Before this album came out earlier this summer, I mentally picked the songs that I thought made sense as the singles, and so far I've been on point. The concept for this video is simple, but it's also effective in showing the energy of this young band, especially the near epileptic fits of lead singer Jack Steadman. The video's style even has a touch of R.E.M. circa late '80s.

The single is out 14 September in the UK, and their debut album is out now.

NewIslands

2009-08-17T14:11:00.004-04:00

Myspace // "Don't Stop Dreaming" (demo) [Audio]

If you're into this sort of thing, Mat Horne loves these guys. If you need a bit more convincing, this Northampton group does quite a bit of synth-assisted rocking, but not in any obvious way. It's not a group that I got on the first listen, but with some time, I started to understand the appeal and now, I really can't get this tune out of my head. Word is that they'll be opening some Miike Snow dates in the UK.

Stricken City

2009-08-14T00:36:00.004-04:00

[Photo Credit: Sam Seager]

Myspace // "Don't Spit at Her Face" [Audio]

Whether it's pop or indie, I can't really say, but there is really something effortlessly classic about the tunes that London-based Stricken City create. Their quirkiness rarely, if ever, becomes too obnoxious for their own good, and it allows them to fit in nicely next to bands like Amazing Baby and Land of Talk.

The band are set to release an 8 song EP through Pure Groove on 12 October, a gatefold CD/DVD package in very limited physical quantities. Pre-order your copy now and get a high-quality digital download on 14th September. A U.S. vinyl release will follow on 3rd November through The Kora Records.

Blood Red Shoes in the Studio

2009-08-13T00:34:00.004-04:00

[Photo Credit: Tom Beard]

Myspace // "Carry Knots" [Audio]

A band that we have covered ad nauseum since their very early days, Brighton duo Blood Red Shoes are in the studio hard at work on their second album, which as far as I know has no release date or title. They were nice enough to record two video diaries which will give you a peek into the process. For more updates, check out their Twitter.

Studio Diary - Part One

Studio Diary - Part Two

Manicure

2009-08-12T00:29:00.003-04:00

Myspace // "Another Girl" [Audio] // "I Wanna Be Free" [Video]

Like an artifact ripped straight out of the early '80s, Russian band Manicure have crafted an eponymous debut album of memorable post-punk tunes. It makes one wonder if this is another area of eastern Europe that could become a hotbed of indie rock, much like Poland and Slovenia have in recent years.

The band's debut EP is available here if you can read Russian. As for the album, you can hear it on their Myspace page, but I am in the dark on purchasing it -- an email to the band has gone unanswered.

Spindle + Wit

2009-08-11T00:41:00.003-04:00

[Photo Credit: Luke Thornton]

Myspace // "New Skin of Mine" [Audio]

We know that London outfit Spindle + Wit are active and gigging, but why does their Myspace page go untouched? Do they not want people finding out about them? Maybe they want to remain a secret, but really, that would be just a shame. It appears that the real action is taking place over at their blog, where you can read about recent mentions in The Fly or a brushes with fame with Pixie Geldof.

The band is another folk-pop group to keep an eye on, one that spreads a bit of sunshine on the sound mastered by Mumford and Sons, amongst others. Their video for "Bring Out the Sun" (no word on completion date) will feature Noel Fielding reprising his moon character from The Mighty Boosh.

Lightspeed Champion: New Song

2009-08-10T00:45:00.002-04:00

Myspace // "Heavy Purple" [Audio]

Feeling a bit wistful, I decided to browse some of the old Lightspeed Champion videos on Youtube, at least the proper ones, as each one of has something special about it that makes me feel all warm inside. "Tell Me What It's Worth" reminds me of walking around London, and the pure joy that it gives me, while "Midnight Surprise" is one my favorite songs. The concept of the video could easily fall flat on its face, but the finished product works brilliantly.

"Tell Me What It's Worth"

"Midnight Surprise"

Mr. Hynes has moved from London to Brooklyn and is working on his second album. "Heavy Purple" is a teaser of what's to come, and while it may exhibit a bit too much of Prince, it's still a killer song. According to him, it "sounds nothing at all like the album, just a bit of fun..."

The Depreciation Guild "Dream About Me"

2009-08-07T01:14:00.000-04:00

Myspace // "Butterfly Kisses" [Audio]

Like a hidden gem plucked out of the '90s shoegaze heyday, Brooklyn's the Depreciation Guild seem to do the sound better than most of the original purveyors. This is the band's latest single, which is available on Kanine Records now.

This video, directed by Jack Ferry, is an excellent companion piece to the song and fits the band's image perfectly -- you really couldn't ask for anything more in a video.

Is Tropical

2009-08-06T00:23:00.003-04:00

Myspace // "I'll Take My Chances" [Audio]

London trio takes the sound that Metronomy mastered and runs with it in new and strange directions. Over the course of one song the band comes off as both creepy and precious, which is perfectly fine for a night out at the club. This is electronica that is more concerned about hooks and melody than your local popster, but the band isn't afraid to throw you for a loop either -- they don't want you getting too comfortable.

While their tunes on Myspace are merely just a start, it seems to be a pretty damn good one to me.

Arthur (2005-2009)

2009-08-05T06:08:00.003-04:00

Myspace // "Wonder Weapon" [Audio]

Promising Fleet-based band Arthur called it quits on 22 July, an important piece of news I missed until today, thanks to being on the road for ten days. This was a real letdown as these guys were really coming into their own with their latest batch of songs. Here's the posting from their Myspace page:

Dear friends and fans....

We write this regretfully to inform you that we have decided to call it a day,due to personal reasons within the band.

We would like to thank everybody so so much for all your support over the last 4 years, and for making it worthwhile.

We have had great times which will not be forgotten, and we hope you will never forget us.

I am sure in the future that we will all be involved in music in some way or another.

Anyway...here are two new songs we recorded a month or so ago.
Enjoy.

Love to all,
Arthur
x

Most of the band's previous output is available for free from this link.

Entrepreneurs: New Songs

2009-08-04T13:44:00.003-04:00

Myspace // "A Zillion Million Ameros" [Audio]

Since Elle Milano parted ways late last year, former frontman Adam Crisp has only gotten busier. He's been involved with several remixes, has two electronic projects, and a more traditional band, the Premarital Sect. He's been fooling around in one of those electronic projects for a number of years, and it seems as though that 2009 has really seen his vision be fully realized. Electronica is not all about partying, and Crisp understands that this only makes the music better.

Tigers That Talked "Black Heart, Blue Eyes"

2009-07-23T00:43:00.003-04:00

Myspace // "Black Heart, Blue Eyes" [Audio]

Last month, Leeds outfit Tigers That Talked dropped their latest EP Black Heart, Blue Eyes (on Bad Sneakers Recods), which is perfect next step for a band. Their melodramatic folk pop isn't any better than on the title track, showing a band that is rising far beyond their influences.

They That Cried Wolf

2009-07-22T16:20:00.002-04:00

Myspace // "These Kids" [Audio]

When a fellow blogger excitedly contacts you about a band that they want you to listen to, you HAVE to check it out. Bloggers are a jaded lot, bombarded with music by every great and awful band out there, so when David at Separated By Motorways reached out to me about They That Cried Wolf, it immediately made its way to the top of my list.

The band hails from Yeovil, South West England, a four piece made up of long time friends. While they claim their influences as Tellison, Kings of Leon, and Wolf Parade, the music is much more interesting than that.

"These Kids" is a 'perfect summer song' and it's on their debut EP Hunters in the Snow, which is out now.

"These Kids"

LoveLikeFire "Boredom"

2009-07-20T12:56:00.002-04:00

Myspace // "Signs" [Audio]

LoveLikeFire's latest video, a clip directed by Jacob Perlmutter, was premiered today on Myspace. The single is out 24 August through Heist or Hit Records, while the band's full length debut hits shelves 14 September (and select indie retailers on 17 August) in the UK.

Animal Kingdom

2009-07-16T11:49:00.002-04:00

Myspace // "Tin Man" (demo) [Audio]

Animal Kingdom's great weakness is also their greatest strength - they are terribly derivative, but the thing is, they do it so well. Their songs are almost the same quality as other well known indie acts like (early) Radiohead, Snow Patrol, and Coldplay. With just a couple of singles out for public consumption, the band already has a reputation for writing catchy and beautifully sweeping songs. The indie kids are going to hate this, and frankly, I'm not quite sure why I am so into them, but you can't deny a great song.

"Tin Man"

The Answering Machine in Manchester

2009-07-15T14:39:00.002-04:00

[Photo Credit: Emily Dennison]

Myspace // "Oklahoma" (Dutch Uncles remix) [Audio] // "Obviously Cold" [Video]

This Friday in Manchester (UK), favorite sons (and daughter) the Answering Machine will be playing a gig at Man City Stadium with Doves, Twisted Wheel, and the positively terrible Kid British. Although the band has only dipped their toes into the US, they've been blowing up in their home country, fresh off of a support tour with Manic Street Preachers.

The band's debut album is out now on Heist or Hit Records.

First person to e-mail me the name of their favorite Answering Machine tune gets a pair of tickets to this gig.

Babe Shadow

2009-07-14T00:17:00.004-04:00

Myspace // "Heart" [Audio]

When a band provides no information about who they are, what they do, and how their sound came about, then what am I supposed to write? Where do I fill in the blanks for the reader?

London's Babe Shadow is this sort of beast, a band that leaves just the tunes and nothing more. While the music may not fit the hustle and bustle of the city, they are not necessarily out of place either, especially with the advent of such new folk stars like Johnny Flynn, Mumford and Sons, and Noah & the Whale. While this may be a lazy comparison to make, it's a fine place to start, although the band will likely show us that they don't quite fit in anywhere.

Minnaars "Busy Hands"

2009-07-13T03:26:00.002-04:00

Myspace // Minnaars EP [Download]

Happy Monday.

This track can be found on the EP, which is linked above. It's has been happily shared by the band via their Myspace page.

The Noisettes "Never Forget You"

2009-07-10T15:57:00.003-04:00

Myspace

This song is ridiculous in the best way possible, sounding like the Ronettes if they had a heavy diet of indie rock -- it's the second single off of their new album. Being a fan of this band for a number of years, it's refreshing to hear them get better with each subsequent album. While their latest album, Wild Young Hearts, is already out in the UK, it gets a US release on 22 September. The band has a short US tour this summer, all on major markets. Dates below.

7/22 Los Angeles, CA Spaceland - Club NME
7/27 Portland, OR Berbati's Pan
7/28 San Francisco, CA Rickshaw Stop
8/1 Brooklyn, NY Bell House
8/3 New York, NY Santo's Party House
8/7 Chicago, IL Back porch at HOB (Lollapalooza After party)
8/10 Boston, MA Great Scott
8/11 Philadelphia, PA M Room
8/12 Washington, DC Rock and Roll Hotel

Midi & the Modern Dance

2009-07-08T00:02:00.004-04:00

Myspace // "Clear Black Snow" [Audio]

Like fellow Connecticut indie rockers The Seascape, Midi & the Modern Dance are just barely out of high school, but that doesn't mean that their music is lacking in experience. Much to the contrary, this many-pieced band fires on all cylinders with an intensity of a band with something to prove. Their eponymous debut EP (available for free download on their Myspace page) showed them setting the table, but their recently released full-length, Twilight, How Sweet You Are, shows that they can exist with their much-hyped teenage counterparts on the other side of the Atlantic. Bombay Bicylce Club and Pull in Emergency may be easy touchstones, but it's apparent that the band is onto their own very special thing.

Hannah Shark "The Buffalo Lullaby"

2009-07-07T12:33:00.002-04:00

Myspace // "This Will Kill Us" [Audio]

Despite double duty with a band (Arthur) and a solo project, Fleet-based Hannah Shark continues to fly under the radar with brilliant acoustic pop gems, four of which can be found on the self-released EP she is selling on her Myspace page. The new tunes continue to reach the web from both of her projects, including this track which is rounded out with a homemade video, obviously influenced by the terrible Vincent Gallo film Buffalo 66.

Hannah plays the acoustic stage at Guilfest '09 on Friday in Guilford, England.

Maribel

2009-06-26T13:07:00.002-04:00

Myspace // "Ecstatic" [Audio] // Aesthetics [Buy]

Lately, it seems that a simple analogy could be used to sum up the musical preferences of two of the Scando territories: Sweden is to sunny pop what Norway is to dark shoegaze. Norway has taken over and added to this decade's shoegaze, especially when you look at bands like Sereena-Maneesh, Simon Says No, and the Megaphonic Thrift.

Add to that list Maribel, who just recently released their debut album (out now in the US and Norway), who take fuzzed out dreamscapes to a new and exciting level. Long-player Aesthetics is nine tracks (plus a bonus song only available on a Norwegian 7") of what we have come to love from this genre. Now the next thing we want to know is this -- when are you coming to the States?

Flashback Thursday: Belly "Feed the Tree"

2009-06-25T00:44:00.004-04:00

Fact: I can not find any of Belly's videos on Youtube, and the quality on this one is terrible. "Gepetto" was the song that finally made this band click for me, and I was really hoping to post that one, but it looks like the internet gods are against me.

More than a decade on, it seems like their sound is back in vogue, which is great because they were one of my favorites while I was in high school, and I didn't think they really hit their stride until the release of King. Although it didn't move the same amount of units as it's predecessor an album that was devoid of any hits, it was the band's best work, but the one that caused them to disband. They were one of those groups that made staying up until 2.00am to watch all of 120 Minutes worth it.

The band's lead singer Tanya Donelly continues to release excellent solo albums to this day.

Bombay Bicycle Club "Dust on the Ground"

2009-06-24T19:36:00.003-04:00

Myspace

I love the new Bombay Bicycle Club because not all of it is what I'd expect of them. Take this latest single for example, as it is truly a shining example of the amazing voice Jack Steadman has, and despite the fact that he resembles Max Fischer, he has the confidence and ability to continue leading this band in the right direction. While it may be easy to compare the band to Interpol (and by extension, Steadman to Paul Banks), this is yet another reason why journalists are lazy. While their tone may be similar, Steadman and Banks are barking up two totally different trees, as the former has the heart and voice of a poet.

The Small Screen Light Show: Unofficial Videos

2009-06-23T01:34:00.000-04:00

"Home Alone"

Myspace // "This Is Not a Reason" [Audio] // "I Am the Future" [Video] // Debut EP [Buy]

Things with Seaham's (near Sunderland, in England's Northeast) Small Screen Light Show has been moving along slowly, but at a steady pace. While the band's four song, DIY EP made have been enough to hold me over when I first wrote about these guys last year, I am itching for a bit more. Here's to hoping that they drop some more tunes first, either through a 7" or an official EP. One thing's sure, this band's tunes sound as fresh and exciting as when I first heard them, and that means a lot coming from the desk of this blog -- we hear a lot of music every day. To hold you (and me) over, check out the two "unofficial" videos done by lead singer Mattie.

Catching Up With: Heels Catch Fire

2009-06-16T00:28:00.003-04:00

Myspace // "Blackout to Whiteout" [Audio]

In an effort to not forget about some of the bands I've written about in the past, I am going to start looking back approximately one calendar year and revisit a developing band. This post focuses on Heels Catch Fire.

A common mistake a lot of bands make it the lack of information on their Myspace page, and this Brighton group is no different. I discovered them via Elle Milano, I've seen them play at the Great Escape, and really, they're a band that deserves much more acclaim. Their tunes are excellent takes on dance rock with a dash of math pop, and although it's nothing new, there's nothing wrong with going with what you know -- not everyone's Radiohead. This summer is a full of hometown gigs for them, as well as an appearance at the Beachdown Festival.

Alan Pownall

2009-06-15T00:36:00.003-04:00

Myspace // "Love Lockdown" (Kanye West cover) [Audio] // "Single Ladies (Put a Ring on it)" [Video]

Jumping feet first into the burgeoning and crowded new English folk scene, Londoner Alan Pownall has already made a name for himself via his unique takes on pop hits from Kanye West and Beyonce, but come 22 June, listeners will be able to look past what some may call gimmicky moves when Young and Lost Club releases his debut single.

You can hear "Clara" now on his Myspace, an engaging tune that is flush with an enigmatic quality that brings to mind Johnny Flynn. Pownall is currently at work on his debut album, which has a tentative release date of early 2010, and as well, he'll be playing select dates this summer.

22 June @ Ronnie Scott's / London (single launch)
18 July @ Latitude Festival sunrise arena
19 July @ Love Box Victoria Park
24 July @ Secret Garden Party
16 Aug. @ Bloom Festival / Bristol

(Additionally, I have added a number of new sites to the blogroll -- they're sites I've been reading for quite some time, but I haven't had the chance to give them their due yet)

Jamie T "Sticks N Stones"

2009-06-12T00:05:00.000-04:00

Myspace

What an absolutely brilliant tune! This could be the track of the summer. It's quite the triumphant return for Mr. Treays, the first single off of his Sticks N Stones EP that is out on 29 June. A UK tour started yesterday in Leeds and concludes in London on 24 June before appearances at Glastonbury, T in the Park, Reading, and Leeds.

Minnaars Remixed

2009-06-09T11:46:00.001-04:00

Myspace // "Essay Essay Essay" (Love Ends Disaster remix) [Audio]

It's been awhile since we've followed up with Leicester group Minnaars, and it seems like a great time to catch up as the guys have been very busy. They just did an interview and live session for local station Demon FM, which can be downloaded here, as well as a remix EP, which can be downloaded on the band's Myspace page. It features reworkings from the likes of Tubelord and Love Ends Disaster. If that's not enough, their proper debut EP is out now (also on the Myspace), featuring the brilliant "Essay Essay Essay," as well as a billion tour dates all over England and Europe this summer.

Chew Lips "Solo"

2009-06-08T01:35:00.000-04:00

Myspace // "Solo" [Audio]

I didn't know what to make of Chew Lips at first -- they seemed to be more style than substance, so I wanted to go running the other way. Luckily I gave the band a chance, as "Solo" is shaping up to be one of the best single of the year. It's minimal dance pop with just enough backbone to keep you involved for the entire song, and lead singer Tigs is smart enough to never take it over the top. Their debut single is out now on Kitsune.

May 68

2009-05-26T01:13:00.003-04:00

[Photo Credit: Tom Cockram]

Myspace // "White Lies" [Audio]

Another exciting little nugget in the burgeoning Manchester indie scene, May 68 are not as pretentious as their name suggests. While they may reference the French student riots of May '68, their tunes are instantly accessible -- perfect dancefloor-filling tunes that are full of energetic hooks. Frankly, I am surprised that this band hasn't blown up yet, especially with a nod from Xfm's John Kennedy, but the band is still young with just a demo to their name, so there's still time yet.

Perfect People

2009-05-20T13:45:00.001-04:00

[Photo Credit: Neil Horne]

Myspace // "Took a Ride" [Audio]

Things have been rather hectic of late, which is something I feel like I've been saying a lot. I spent a week in England going to gigs and attended the Great Escape. Last year I saw the Clik Clik, and this year the band that rose from their ashes played, Perfect People. Now, I am not going to bore you with stories about how hardcore I am and how I stayed up to all hours of the night because basically all of that will be a lie. I had a chance to see Perfect People, but their 12.30 am set time not only conflicted with the end of Pulled Apart By Horses's set, but also my bed time. Next time, yeah?

Perfect People blazes similar sonic trails as the Clik Clik, but with more Ben Folds-inspired pop and less electronics. It's excellent stuff though and a great start for these music vets that are still quite young.

Kumka Olik "Zaspane poniedziałki"

2009-05-11T02:12:00.002-04:00

Myspace // "Zaspane poniedziałki" [Audio]

I really have no idea what they're singing about, but I guess the same can be said for plenty of English bands. Kumka Olik is from Poland and play very English-sounding indie rock, and while it can be quite derivative at times, their latest album Jedynka is an excellent listen.

Jamie T: New EP

2009-05-06T00:30:00.002-04:00

Myspace // "A New England" [Audio]

I've been slowly preparing a pretty massive Thamesbeat post, just sort of catching up on things and tying up some loose ends on the scene that is really not a scene. Although Larrikin Love flamed out quickly, some of the other bands still quite active, including Jamie T.

You may remember his free track/video "Fire Fire" from earlier this year, but this track, which was Jamie's gift to fans for being so patient (not like we have a choice, yeah?), will not appear on his next album or preceding EPs. He's been doing a few random gigs, but this June will see a proper run throughout England, starting in the beautiful city of Leeds. And we're not joking about the beauty of Leeds -- remember, this is Exitfare, and we love West Yorkshire.

His next official release comes out 29 June, an EP entitled Stick N Stones. The title track has surfaced in various spots on the internet, and it is classic Jamie T and his perfect mixture of several different styles. The not quite rap, not quite indie, not quite garage concoction may be tough for some to take at first, but this is the reason why people get so excited about this guy. It's a sound that you've never heard before, and despite the stylistic mosaic, you can't deny catchy songwriting.

Posted is an old b-side -- those blogs that like adventures with the RIAA may still have a radio rip of a new song. Enjoy.

Situationists: New Songs / Breaking Up

2009-05-04T00:41:00.003-04:00

"Onwards and Upwards"

Myspace // "Digital Love" [Audio] // "Whiskey and Water" (remix) [Audio]

Sheffield-based Situationists have been busy since the release of their debut EP Onwards and Upwards last year on Tough Love Records. They've been focusing on new material, so far recording five new songs in their home-based studios, four of which will be released in the coming months. To tide everyone over to then, the band has a remix available, done by electro artist The Aspirins For My Children, and a cover of Daft Punk's "Digital Love."

I had written the paragraph above before actually looking at the band's Myspace page, which indicates that the band's London show this past weekend, as well as a yet to be announced gig in Sheffield, will be the band's last ones. I shouldn't have dragged my feet with posting up those new tunes above because now instead of serving as treats for what is yet to come, they are now goodbye presents from a very promising young band.

A little confusing, but the e-mail from their label containing the new tunes came four days after the band announced their break-up. I guess the guys at Tough Love really could not let go.

Manchester's Channel M cuts the City Social and all music coverage

2009-04-29T00:46:00.005-04:00

Earlier this week, a friend in Manchester dropped some bad news on me, that local station Channel M was dropping its excellent "City Social" program and all of its music coverage. This was a particularly good spot for Britain's (and the rest of the world's) upcoming indie elite to get their foot in the door in England. At least 20 of the bands we've covered here were featured on "City Social" in the past year.

To mourn the loss of this great program, here are some of our favorite performances on this Manchester staple.

(The Joy Formidable starts 1:48 into the program)

(The Kabeedies)

(The Answering Machine)

(Bombay Bicycle Club)

(Wintermute)

Dutch Uncles "Face In"

2009-04-28T01:46:00.003-04:00

Myspace // "Takeover" [Audio]

Manchester's Dutch Uncles are a tough lot to pin down. On one hand it seems as though they are playing the herky jerky math-pop that is all the rage these days, but there is enough quirky pop thrown in the mix to make the band unique in its own right. The band's eponymous debut album is out now on Tapete Records. Their next gig is 22 May in Manchester with LoveLikeFire and the Pains of Being Pure at Heart.

The Romance of Ballooning

2009-04-27T00:38:00.003-04:00

Myspace // "Aerobatics" [Audio]

Norwich has been rolling out a host of great bands as of late, including one of our recent favorites, the Kabeedies, who we've posted about a number of times. Next up is an outfit that recalls the Thamesbeat mini-scene from a few years back, the Romance of Ballloning. Just recently signed to new local label Milkbar, the band is drawing comparisons to Foals and Mystery Jets. It appears that the band's next gig is 29 July in Norwich, but word is that they are putting together a country wide tour, but it's anyone's guess as to when that will happen.

The Premarital Sect

2009-04-22T23:12:00.005-04:00

"Snuff Scene" [Audio]

On what felt like the verge of mainstream acceptance, Elle Milano broke up. At the time, it was heart-breaking for one of my favorite bands to split, especially after a handful of brilliant singles and an absolutely amazing debut album, but since there was nothing I could do about it, I tried to think about the positives. I did get to see the band play twice, both at last year's Great Escape. And when considering their output, they pretty much went out on top, with not one blemish to their name. Looking back, it was all perfection, albeit a small sample size.

Who really knew why the band split or where they were headed, although some of those questions would eventually be answered. Adam Crisp's side project, Entrepreneurs, seemed to become his full time gig, while I quickly became enamoured with their friends, fellow spike-poppers Arthur. There was also the on-again, off-again search for the lost Elle Milano track "Catch the Magic," which I am happy to say ended recently because of this fine blog.

Although Enterpreneurs is good and all, it just wasn't the same, but with the recent emergence of the Premarital Sect, it seems that Mr. Crisp is not finished perfecting his Fall-isms and taking down the indie scene from the inside. The fact that he is fed up with almost everything around him isn't important, what is though is that he no longer cares. This new outfit, rounded out by schoolbuddies Philth Black and The Walternator on bass and drums, is all about playing for just themselves, so wherever the sound leads them, that's where they go.

From their Last FM:
First demo tape recorded in March 2009 and uploaded in April. A Myspace? Are you having a laugh? But for now, you can find this demo at http://www.thepremaritalsect.co.uk.

The Cheek

2009-04-20T01:19:00.004-04:00

"Slow Kids"

Myspace // "Slow Kids" (The Shoes remix) [Audio]

The weekend is over and I am exhausted. I drove up to San Francisco on Friday, over to Sacramento on Saturday, and then back to LA today. I didn't even consider putting together a blog post until five minutes ago -- I am just that tired. First on my list to blog about was the new Bombay Bicycle Club video, but after seeing that Universal disabled embedding on it, I decided that if the label didn't care about promoting the band, then neither did I. Too bad, I like the song a lot.

The Cheek are definitely not a new band -- you may know them by their former name, Cheeky Cheeky & the Nosebleeds. Although I can't get a good read on why they changed their name, apparently the old moniker was a bit of a mouthful. The band released a mini-album earlier this year in Japan, they played SXSW, and plans for a proper full-length are slated for sometime later this year. RCRD LBL posted one of the band's newer songs last month -- it's more of the same quirky pop we've come to expect from this Suffolk outfit.

Flashback Thursday: Mansun "Negative"

2009-04-16T01:36:00.003-04:00

"Negative" was the third single off of Mansun's second album, Six, released in 1998. While the band had just one minor hit here in the States (with "Wide Open Space"), this record solidified the band's standing as one of the biggest bands of the time in their homeland. Two different versions of this record were released, with the US and UK getting drastically different artwork, mixes, and sequencing, but "Negative" was one of the pieces that remained the same on both versions.

After this record, the band released one more album before disbanding in 2003. A fourth record was nearly completed, and it was included in the three disc Kleptomania collection, which the band put out in '06. Lead singer Paul Draper has recently performed solo and is working on a debut album.

The Kabeedies "Little Brains"

2009-04-14T00:44:00.002-04:00

Myspace // "Lovers Ought To" [Audio]

They call themselves "pop music, but shit," but I really have to disagree with that statement. This Norwich four-piece has a sound that is uniquely British, and at times even reminds me of Jamie T, as they expertly mix pop and skiffle. The band's latest single, "Little Brains," was released yesterday on NRONE Records on vinyl 7" and CD, as well as iTunes.

The Answering Machine "Obviously Cold"

2009-04-13T00:01:00.003-04:00

Myspace // "Another City, Another Sorry" [Audio]

If you're the observant type, you'll note that there are palm trees in this video, something you will not find in Manchester. This video, the second off of Another City, Another Sorry, was shot while the band were in Los Angeles earlier this month. Apparently curling and sun do mix. "Obviously Cold" is out on 18 May (my birthday) through Heist or Hit Records.

The Joy Formidable "Whirring"

2009-04-10T03:25:00.002-04:00

Myspace

This London by way of Wales outfit's next single, "Whirring," will be out on 25 May in the UK. You can pre-order the single and get extra stuff including a chance to win free entry to every The Joy Formidable headlining concert for the rest of your life. Find out more info here. Their mini LP A Balloon Called Moaning is available now via CD.

New Black Light Machine

2009-04-07T02:18:00.000-04:00

Myspace // "Light Burns Black" [Audio]

London group New Black Light Machine has done their studying, falling in line nicely with contemporaries like These New Puritans. They're just as good, but not as pretentious -- always a good thing. Young bands tend to show their influences a bit too much, and this outfit is no different, but the best thing about them is that they look forward as much as they do to those that laid the groundwork for them. With one promising demo collection under their belts, the band should continue marrying the early sounds of Idlewild with dark romanticism for years to come.

Shapes "Trampled By a Horse"

2009-04-06T21:17:00.002-04:00

Myspace

New Shapes EP this May on Big Scary Monsters, which I've heard (because I am special) and it is quite good. For a little preview, check out this intense video. The Brimingham band starts a tour in May with the JCQ, including a stop at the beautiful seaside town of Brighton for the Great Escape for a gig with Blakfish and This Town Needs Guns.

Grammatics

2009-03-30T11:38:00.001-04:00

"Shadow Committee"

Myspace // "Shadow Committee" [Audio]

Venerable Leeds-based label Dance to the Radio released the eponymous debut album from Grammatics last Monday. Love them or hate them -- and I definitely started out as the latter -- the band is definitely onto something good. Their early singles hinted at a band that loved Cursive just as much as Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark, and on their debut album they've perfected that sound.

The band is currently on the road promoting their debut LP with fellow West Yorkshire mates Rolo Tomassi and Pulled Apart By Horses, which is sure to be one hell of a show, both on and off-stage. They will also be supporting Bloc Party this October.

LoveLikeFire

2009-03-27T11:44:00.004-04:00

Directed by Zack Keller & Ed Skudder

Myspace // "Signs" [Audio] // "From A Tower" [Video]

I first came across this band at CMJ last year, walking across town to check them out at the urging of about five people. The set was a disappointment, but I wasn't ready to write them off. As more music was finished for their debut album, I was sent different demos and drafts of the record, getting a rare glimpse into the development of the songs.

What I begun to hear from Tear Ourselves Away (out this summer on Heist or Hit Records) was one of the best new records to surface from an American band in a few years, and by the time I saw them for the second time at Spaceland (in Los Angeles) a couple months ago, I was on board. It's almost developed into an obsession -- they're a group that I need to check out every time they come through the city. Their recent gigs have been utterly fantastic, even their cramped and sweaty set at an ultra tight venue on Red River in Austin.

The band's first single off the upcoming debut set, "William," is out now in the UK.

Flashback Thursday: My Bloody Valentine "Realise"

2009-03-26T01:29:00.002-04:00

Things have been busy lately -- that's my one and only excuse for not keeping up with the blog. Good news is that I returned from SXSW with a lot of new bands to write about, but that will have to wait until next week. Since I am in the studio with Simon Says No right now, I thought it would be appropriate to post a video from an act that has a lot of influence over them, My Bloody Valentine.

Golden Age

2009-03-23T00:43:00.002-04:00

[Photo Credit: Marc Hibbert]

Myspace // "Machine Music" [Audio]

I returned from SXSW today after a night of no sleep and although I spent some time napping today, I am still exhausted and have no time to put together my "best of" list.

Until then, we have London group Golden Age to check out, a band that strikes all of the right post punk chords with driving guitars and deep, memorable vocals. The one thing they do fail at though is providing any bio information, instead letting the music speak for itself. Not a bad move, but it would be nice to write a bit more about these guys.

SXSW 2k9 Preview: My Picks for Friday Night

2009-03-20T03:40:00.000-04:00

My showcase pick for Friday is the Great Escape showcase that will be taking place at Maggie Mae's Rooftop. Since I'll actually be going to the Great Escape again this year, I'm not foaming at the mouth with jealously while writing this post... for once.

8:00pm: The Young Republic (Myspace // "Black Duck Blues" [mp3])
9:00pm: The Postelles (Myspace // "123 Stop" [mp3])
10:00pm: Mumford & Sons (Myspace)
11:00pm: Fighting With Wire (Myspace)
12:00am: Esser (Myspace // "I Love You" [mp3])
1:00am: Au Revoir Simone (Myspace // "A Violent Yet Flammable World" [mp3])

If you don't trust my judgment (above), then here are some other shows for your Friday night:

6:00pm: Third Eye Blind at The Lone Star Lounge (Myspace // "Non Dairy Creamer" [mp3])
7:30pm: We Were Promised Jetpacks at La Zona Rosa (Myspace // "Quiet Little Voices" [mp3])
7:30pm: sorry-ok-yes at Smokin' Music (Myspace // "Self-Reliant" [mp3])
8:30pm: French Miami at Mohawk (Myspace // "God Damn Best" [mp3])
8:30pm: Dananananaykroyd at La Zona Rosa (Myspace // "Pink Sabbath" [mp3])
9:00pm: Silversun Pickups at Stubb's (Myspace)
9:30pm: Camera Obscura at La Zona Rosa (Myspace)
10:00pm: Cut Off Your Hands at Aces Lounge (Myspace // "Turn Cold" [mp3])
10:00pm: The Rosebuds at Momo's (Myspace)
10:00pm: The Ettes at Mohawk Patio (Myspace // "No Home" [mp3])
11:00pm: Javelins at Soho Lounge (Myspace // "The Pounding" [mp3])
11:00pm: Superdrag at Pangaea (Myspace)
11:30pm: Glasvegas at La Zona Rosa (Myspace)
12:00am: Headlights at Habana Calle 6 Patio (Myspace)
12:00am: The Hold Steady at Mohawk Patio (Myspace)
12:00am: The Bird and the Bee at Karma Lounge (Myspace)
12:00am: Tinted Windows (feat. Taylor Hanson, James Iha, Adam Schlesinger, Bun E. Carlos) at Pangaea (Myspace)
12:00am: Laura Marling at Central Presbyterian Church (Myspace)
1:00am: Okkervil River at The Parish (Myspace)
1:00am: Cursive at Radio Room (Myspace)
1:00am: Rolo Tomassi at Radio Room Patio (Myspace // "Oh, Hello Ghost" [mp3])
1:00am: Late of the Pier at Aces Lounge (Myspace)

SXSW 2k9 Preview: My Picks for Thursday Night

2009-03-19T12:44:00.002-04:00

My showcase of choice for tonight will be taking place at Wave Rooftop:

7:00pm: The Hall Monitors (Myspace // "Girls" [mp3])
8:00pm: The Life and Times (Myspace)
9:00pm: My Sad Captains (Myspace // "Great Expectations" [mp3])
10:00pm: Artefacts For Space Travel (Myspace // "Recoup" [mp3])
11:00pm: Let's Wrestle (Myspace // "I Won't Lie To You" [mp3])
12:00am: Screaming Tea Party (Myspace // "I'd Rather Be Stuck On The Stair Well" [mp3])
1:00am: Pete & The Pirates (Myspace)

Other shows of note for Thursday evening:

7:00pm: Cold War Kids at Auditorium Shores Stage (Myspace)
8:00pm: American Princes at Speakeasy (Myspace)
9:00pm: Ferraby Lionheart at Club de Ville (Myspace)
9:00pm: Red Red Meat at Radio Room Patio (Myspace)
11:00pm: Two Hours Traffic at El Sol Y La Luna (Myspace // "Nighthawks" [mp3])
11:00pm: Chairlift at Red 7 Patio (Myspace)
11:00pm: Jay Jay Pistolet at Latitude 30 (Myspace // "Happy Birthday You" [mp3])
11:00pm: Cut Off Your Hands at Emo's (Myspace // "Turn Cold" [mp3])
12:00am: Passion Pit at Emo's (Myspace // "Sleepyhead" [mp3])
12:00am: Abe Vigoda at Red 7 (Myspace // "Don't Lie" [mp3])
12:45am: Ida Maria at Maggie Mae's (Myspace)
1:00am: Handsome Furs at Radio Room Patio (Myspace)
1:00am: Bearsuit at Rusty Spurs (Myspace)

SXSW 2k9 Preview: My Picks for Wednesday Night

2009-03-18T03:15:00.005-04:00

For our friends at SXSW, my pick for Wednesday night is the Chess Club showcase at Friends. Think tons of great bands, capped off by the seriously amazing Mumford & Sons (who put on my favorite live show of 2008).

Chess Club Showcase:

8:00pm: The Week That Was (Myspace // "Learn to Learn" [mp3])
9:00pm: Come On Gang! (Myspace // "Wheels" [mp3])
10:00pm: Wave Machines (Myspace // "I Go I Go I Go" [mp3])
11:00pm: Jay Jay Pistolet (Myspace // "Happy Birthday You" [mp3])
12:00am: Post War Years (Myspace // "Black Morning" [mp3])
1:00am: Mumford & Sons (Myspace)

Other good bets for Wednesday evening:

7:30pm: Lets Wrestle! at Ms. Bea's (Myspace // "I Won't Lie To You")
8:00pm: Rademacher at The Independent (Myspace // "Believer")
8:45pm: Cut Off Your Hands at Vice (Myspace // "Turn Cold" [mp3])
10:30pm: Late of the Pier at La Zona Rosa (Myspace)
11:00pm: Laura Marling at Latitude 30 (Myspace)
11:30pm: Dananananaykroyd at Dirty Dog (Myspace // "Pink Sabbath")
11:45pm: Glasvegas at Vice (Myspace)
12:00am: Annuals at Radio Room Patio (Myspace)
12:00am: Sky Larkin at Red 7 Patio (Myspace // "Fossil, I" [mp3])

SXSW 2k9 Preview: Dananananaykroyd

2009-03-16T19:59:00.006-04:00

Myspace // "Pink Sabbath" [mp3]

Dananananaykroyd seems to be having a big couple of weeks. The Glasgow group released their first video (ever) for "Black Wax" a week and a half ago. Now, they're en-route to Austin for SXSW where they're tipped to be one of the breakout bands of the festival (along with other Exitfare favorites like Sky Larkin). So yeah... you'll want to be there. Check them out if you like super energetic punk rock meets hardcore with maybe a little math rock thrown in for good measure, I think of them as Johnny Foreigner meets Pulled Apart By Horses with a side helping of Foals.

3/18: British Party at Latitude 30 @ 7:30pm
3/18: ASCAP Showcase at Dirty Dog Bar @ 11:30pm
3/19: Clash/Relentless Party at Dirty Dog Bar @ 1pm
3/20: SAC Showcase at La Zona Rosa @ 8:30pm

Airship

2009-03-11T14:09:00.003-04:00

Myspace // "Algebra" [Audio]

A few weeks while I was in London, a friend suggested I check out Manchester's Airship with him. Being that the friend in question has excellent taste in music, I took him up on his offer and I was not let down. It seems as though I am not the only person tipping these guys (which is a nice change, I might add), as the likes of Channel M, BBC Manchester, and XFM are all singing their praises.

The quartet plays dirty, anthemic pop, think Modest Mouse or Nine Black Alps if those bands were less worried about the world's problems. The band's Spirit of the Beehive EP is an excellent introduction to a band who have started things off on the right foot and should continue getting better. Manchester locals, make sure you catch them tonight at the Ruby Lounge with Liam Frost.

Favours For Sailors

2009-03-09T01:07:00.002-04:00

[Photo Credit: Lucy Johnston]

Myspace // "I Dreamt That You Dreamt That I Loved You In My Dreams" [Audio]

Favours For Sailors may hail from London, but it's obvious that they were raised on American indie rock. Their tunes recall the likes of Pavement or Weezer, but with a penchant for big pop moments. It's music that's made for playing at top volume on the motorways at the height of summer. The band's debut EP, Furious Sons, was just released last week on Tough Love Records. Keep an eye out for the band on XFM later this month, as well as several dates with Dananananaykroyd.

Flashback Thursday: Echo & the Bunnymen "Killing Moon"

2009-03-05T21:29:00.003-05:00

Myspace

Holy shit, look at that hair!

I have a mildly amusing story about Echo & the Bunnymen from a few years ago when I lived in Boston. Always being a big fan, they're one band that I wish I had the chance to see, so when Boy Kill Boy were coming through town supporting them, I immediately made sure to go. In the end, I didn't stay for Echo because like most bands that reform, some of the magic is gone -- it's just not the same. I can live vicariously through all of the albums and videos, but like many bands, I just wasn't meant to see them.

Pulled Apart By Horses: New Song

2009-03-04T13:49:00.002-05:00

[Photo Credit: Bart Pettman]

Myspace

Leeds quartet Pulled Apart By Horses have posted a new track on their Myspace page -- "EC = MC Hammer." Check it out, it's good times.

As usual, the band will be on the road this spring, supporting Blood Red Shoes, doing gigs with "We Versus the Shark," and appearances at Live at Leeds and the Great Escape. Another reason why it's better to be in England right now.

Young/Lost Ones: New EP

2009-03-02T00:15:00.002-05:00

Myspace // El Renacimiento de Los Olvidados [Download the Entire EP free]

I got back from Norway and England late last week, but with the jetlag and all of the catch-up I needed to do, there wasn't much time for updating the blog. My time in Oslo did see me coming home late from gigs not being able to sleep, so I did have some time to spend with some bands that I've lost touch with. One of those is the unsung California outfit Young/Lost Ones.

Despite the release of their latest digital EP, El Renacimiento de Los Olvidados, the band remains under the radar, sort of a password for those who really know what is going on in west coast indie rock. This latest release is all you could want from the band, with five songs of upbeat alt-country in the vein of Jason Molina or Tom Petty. I'm glad that this band keeps chugging along as each new release from them is even better than the last.

The Answering Machine

2009-02-23T06:26:00.000-05:00

Myspace

The Answering Machine's video for their new single, "Cliffer," is easily the best video I've seen so far this year (even if it will probably give me nightmares tonight). It's touching and funny, the colors are great, and it features some great performance footage... basically, it's everything a band would want out of a video. Although I'm doubting that the song is really about the falling out of a ventriloquist and his dummy, I think the video is a perfect fit for the upbeat indie-rock song as the lyrics seemingly explore the difficulties inherent in any relationship ("Oh, just because I'm on your side, doesn't mean you're right"). I'd go into more detail, but I can sum it all up by saying that the whole song is killer.

The Answering Machine release “Cliffer" on the 9th March through the brand new indie label, Heist or Hit Records. It's featured on their forthcoming debut album, Another City, Another Sorry, which should be released in May. Be forewarned, this album is going to be huge.

Duels - Free Album Download

2009-02-20T03:41:00.001-05:00

Myspace // "Sleeping Giants [Napoleon III Remix]"

We haven't written about one of our favorite Leeds bands, Duels, in quite a while, but that doesn't mean that we've forgotten about them. Their debut album was packed with a good mix of ridiculously catchy songs ("Potential Futures" and "Pressure On You") and more melodic and sensitive anthems ("Brothers & Sisters" and "Young Believers"), making it an easy choice for our year end lists back in 2006.

After months of looking for a physical copy of their sophomore album, The Barbarians Move In, without success, I went over to their website today... only to find that the band is hosting the entire album for free download to celebrate the one-year anniversary of the record's digital release! I assume it'll only be free for a limited time, so make sure to jump over to their website asap. Although I haven't listened yet, if the songs are half as good as "Regeneration" (the video above) then we'll all be in for a treat.

Delorentos Are Breaking Up

2009-02-18T07:00:00.000-05:00

Myspace // "Do You Realise" [mp3]

Yesterday, Delorentos announced some very sad news--that founding member Ronan decided to leave the band and, as a result, the group would be disbanding. Clearly, it's been a tough few months for the band who--regardless of their success in 2008--had their label deal fall through and their distribution company go bankrupt. Luckily, before they call it a day, all four members are going to record a new album together and maybe play a couple farewell shows.

I'm totally bummed, because I love love love their debut, In Love With Detail, which is a shining example of perfect indie-rock. Though I never had a chance to see Delorentos play live, I'm hopeful that I'll actually get to see the other three members when they re-form as a new band sometime in the future. Keep checking their Myspace page for updates on the recording process and everything else.

Wintermute "Dead Or Not He Was Wearing Sunglasses"

2009-02-16T00:31:00.003-05:00

Myspace

Kevin at Big Scary Monsters told me this video wouldn't be done for a couple of weeks, but it seems that there was a video editor out there who worked around the clock to get this thing finished.

This is a mighty good song, but not quite sure what's going on here. Who is this girl? What is she doing? These are quite compelling questions. That house party looked fun though.

Their debut album, Robot Works, will be out later this spring.

Copy Haho

2009-02-13T00:15:00.003-05:00

Myspace // "Pulling Push Ups" [Audio] // Copy Haho EP [Pre-order]

Scottish group Copy Haho aren't just from Scotland -- they're really from Scotland, hailing from the Aberdeen area, more specifically Stonehaven. The band's debut EP is set to be released on quickly rising micro indie Big Scary Monsters. The label has a proclivity for stunning math rock, and they have a knack for picking the cream of the genre's crop. Those of you in England can catch the very tail end of the band's short tour, where you'll be sure to see plenty of spiky and skewed guitar theatrics.

Flashback Thursday: Jawbox "Savory"

2009-02-12T00:06:00.002-05:00

The best song off of one of the best math rock albums at the peak of the genre. This song is such no-brainer -- easily one of the best songs ever. I know this band got so much shit for jumping to a major from Dischord for this album, but the critics were silenced after For Your Own Special Sweetheart dropped. The video may be a little dated, but I could listen to this song over and over for days and not get sick of it.

Jawbox may not have been the kingpins of the District like Fugazi, the cool kids like Girls Against Boys, untouchable like Nation of Ulysses, or arty like Shudder to Think, but they were the best thing to come out of DC in the '90s.

Entrepreneurs

2009-02-10T00:54:00.004-05:00

Myspace // "Offensive Coordinator" [Audio]

Although it's been a few months since Brighton trio Elle Milano called it quits, it doesn't mean we've stopped mourning them in the Exitfare office. Their legend has only grown, from us waxing nostalgic about the two gigs we caught from them at the Great Escape last year to Beth commenting to me today about good Psirens were. It's obvious that Adam Crisp, a member of both of those outfits, has something quite special going on in the songwriting department.

Entrepreneurs is his latest project, one that is a complete left turn from what he has done in the past. As far as we know, it's just him and an odd assortment of instruments. It's electronic, but it still retains the same wry cynicism we came to love from the Milanos. He's even tried his hand at some remixing, include an excellent reworking of a Hannah Shark (of Arthur) song.

Tigers That Talked

2009-02-09T00:56:00.003-05:00

[Photo Credit: David Sorley]

Myspace // "23 Fears" [Audio] // "23 Fears" [Buy]

This is a Leeds group that has flown under our radar until very recently, but it seems as though all of the right people in England have been paying attention to them. Their recent single "23 Fears" has received nods of approval from Steve Lamacq, Zane Lowe, Radio 1, and Q Radio while the band is busy prepping their debut album. First time listeners will notice similarities to Elbow and the Arcade Fire, but the band puts their own mystical spin on the formula. The band has relocated to a chapel in Lincolnshire with Adam Noble (the Guillemots), and while they still in midst of recording, expect the finish product sometime later this year.

"Weapon"

Flashback Thursday: The Charlatans "Can't Get Out of Bed"

2009-02-05T23:05:00.002-05:00

It wasn't until '94 that I discovered The Charlatans with their Up to Our Hips album, but like many Brit bands of the time, I was hooked from that day on. This was the first song I heard from them and it remains one of my favorites.

Some of you may be skeptics, but You Cross My Path, which was released last year, is actually quite good.

4 or 5 Magicians

2009-02-04T23:09:00.003-05:00

[Photo Credit: Paul Choy]

Myspace // "Nice Little Earner" [Audio]

Brighton group 4 or 5 Magicians is a band formed around songwriter Dan Ormsby, whom plays out and often records with musicians he feels are "better at playing stuff than me." They have just finished recording and mixing their debut album with Ian Button (Death in Vegas) with a tentative release date of April. Should be a riot! The band have had singles out on This is Fake DIY ("Change The Record" / "Ideal Man") and Alcopop! ("Forever on the Edge"). The band is playing a string of dates this month, including one while I am in the country. Again, this should be a riot!

Long Overdue 2k8 Revue

2009-02-03T18:26:00.004-05:00

I am temporarily returning from my law school inspired blogging hiatus to post my long overdue year end lists for 2008... because someone was begging/bugging me to share.

Top 30 Albums of the Year (2008)

1. Johnny Foreigner - Waited Up Til It Was Light
2. Johnny Flynn – A Larum
3. Elle Milano – Acres of Dead Space Cadets
4. Foals - Antidotes
5. Blood Red Shoes – Box of Secrets
6. The Subways – All Or Nothing
7. Let’s Wrestle – Let’s Wrestle
8 ¡Forward, Russia! – Life Processes
9. Ra Ra Riot – The Rhumb Line
10. Cajun Dance Party – The Colourful Life
11. Mystery Jets – Twenty One
12. Bromheads Jacket – On The Brain
13. Rotary Ten - These Are Our Hands
14. Ida Maria – Fortress Round My Heart
15. The Features – Some Kind of Salvation
16. Look See Proof – Between Here & There
17. Margot & The Nuclear So And So's - Animal
18. Dartz - The Sad History Of The Village Of Alnerique
19. Bloc Party – Intimacy
20. Okkervil River – The Stand Ins
21. Frightened Rabbit – The Midnight Organ Fight
22. Cazals – What Of Our Future
23. American Princes – Other People
24. Laura Marling – Alas I Cannot Swim
25. Black Kids – Partie Traumatic
26. Lightspeed Champion - Falling Of The Lavender Bridge
27. Birdmonster – From the Mountain to the Sea
28. Nada Surf – Lucky
29. XX Teens – Welcome to Goon Island
30. The Young Knives - Superabundance

Top EPs of the Year (2008)

1. Mumford and Sons
2. Dananananaykroyd – Sissy Hits
3. Wintermute - Fun With Wizard Stencils
4. The More Assured
5. Simon Says No! - Ahoi de Angst
6. Cut Off Your Hands - Happy As Can Be
7. Rademacher – ERA
8. Ketch Harbour Wolves - Dead Calm Horizon
9. The Jealous Sound – Got Friends
10. The Video Nasties – Tour EP

Favorite Bands that Did Not Release Albums in 2008

1. Bombay Bicycle Club
2. Dinosaur Pile-Up
3. Grammatics
4. White Lies
5. Sky Larkin
6. Pulled Apart By Horses
7. Fox Cubs
8. Bodies of Work
9. This Et Al
10. The Clik Clik

Favorite Shows of the Year (2008)

1. Johnny Flynn, Laura Marling, Mumford & Sons @ Hotel Café (LA, 09/26/08)
2. Elle Milano @ The Prince Albert (Brighton, 05/15/08)
3. Foals @ The Middle East (Boston, 05/06/08)
4. White Lies @ The Roxy (LA, 10/30/08)
5. Johnny Foreigner, Cocknbull Kid @ The Honey Club (Brighton, 05/16/08)
6. Let’s Wrestle @ Horatios (Brighton, 05/17/08)
7. Lightspeed Champion @ Union Pool (Brooklyn, 03/08/08)
8. The Mystery Jets @ The Honey Club (Brighton, 05/17/08)
9. The Clik Clik, The Damn Shames @ Arc (Brighton, 05/17/08)
10. Passion Pit @ Henry Fonda Theater (LA, 11/01/08)

The Lea Shores

2009-02-02T00:51:00.003-05:00

Myspace // "Fear SOS" [Audio] // "Guillotine" [Video]

Not too sure about this, but we might be the throes of a psychedelia revolution right now as there are a glut of great bands on both sides of the Atlantic producing some pretty mind-blowing music, including the Brothers Movement, the Black Angels, Sweet Jane, and Darker My Love. Add the Lea Shores to this list, a band that I neglected to check out until Friday.

The band has been hailed by the likes of the NME and Andy Bell (of Oasis/Ride), while they have supported the Brian Jonestown Massacre, Kasabian, and the Dandy Warhols. The band's debut EP, Butterfly, is out now.

Flashback Thursday: Helium "XXX"

2009-01-29T22:25:00.002-05:00

Unlike other bands of their era, Helium really does not get their due. They fall somewhere between slacker indie and spaced-out shoegaze, made all the more alluring, but the equally hot/mysterious Mary Timony. It's not that the band was better than their peers, but they were a lot more compelling. Pavement just didn't care, Guided By Voices were drunks, and Polvo were pain in the ass artists.

This video is off of the band's '94 debut EP Pirate Prude, and some may remember it being made fun of on Beavis and Butthead. The band would go on to release two more EPs and two albums before disbanding in 1998. Lead singer Mary Timony continues a successful solo career.

Youves

2009-01-28T15:10:00.004-05:00

[Photo Credit: Lee Hooper]

Myspace // "On Probation" [Audio]

Formerly known as Mirror! Mirror!, this Nuneaton band apparently had to change their name after an American group with the same name had a shitfit. Soon all of the words in the English language will be taken and each band will simply go by ID numbers, like "Band 528462." Let's hope that doesn't happen anytime soon. These guys might be a little crazy, but I think we need that in musicians. The boring guys never succeed, and Youves are anything but. This is Foals for people that find them pedestrian. The band's debut EP is out this spring.

Calories

2009-01-27T00:42:00.003-05:00

Myspace // "A Bear A Bison" [Audio]

This March will see the release of the debut album, Adventuring, from Calories (ex-Distophia) on Smalltown America, a small record label based in Northern Ireland and London. Despite just playing their first gigs last summer, the band already has a powerful arsenal of math pop-influenced songs. Over the next couple of months, they'll be sharing the stage with Women, Favours for Sailors, and The Thermals. Yet another quality band to add to the growing math rock movement in England.

The Good Natured

2009-01-26T00:28:00.003-05:00

Myspace // "Warriors" (demo) [Audio]

Berkshire act The Good Natured (aka Sarah McIntosh) is one I've been sitting on since August. She released her debut EP, Warriors, late last year to a surprising amount of excellent reviews. Her is music is straight-up electro-pop, filled with hooks that the Postal Service wish they had written and lyrics that show more depth than all of the Kate Nashes in the world. While sometimes the music may veer into the melancholy, each tune is equally memorable and shows that there is quite a bit of potential here.

Jamie T "Fire Fire"

2009-01-23T00:11:00.002-05:00

Myspace // "Fire Fire" [Audio]

Jamie T will be back with his follow-up to Panic Prevention later this year. More details will follow, but the first track from the disc, "Fire Fire," is now up for free download on his Myspace page. Many of you will be taken by surprise with this track, but give it time. Like most of his music, it doesn't hit you at first, but a few listens later, you'll be hooked.

Flashback Thursday: Manic Street Preachers "Faster"

2009-01-22T02:11:00.003-05:00

Myspace

Later this spring, the Manic Street Preachers will release their ninth studio album, tentatively titled Journal for Plague Lovers. Billed as sort of a follow-up to The Holy Bible, the album will only feature lyrics written by Richey Edwards, whose whereabouts are still unknown. The album is produced by Steve Albini.

To look back on The Holy Bible, the album most often cited by fans as the band's best, this is the video for the album's first single, "Faster." Famously, when the band performed the song on BBC's Top of the Pops, they were decked out in army/navy uniforms with James Dean Bradfield wearing a terrorist-style balaclava. They were told by the BBC that they had received the most complaints ever, especially because some thought they were supporting Irish paramilitary groups.

Skins: Series 3

2009-01-21T00:56:00.002-05:00

Myspace

Tomorrow night on E4 (in the UK), the third season of Skins premieres at 10 pm (GMT). Outside of Effy (Tony's younger sister), the entire cast is new, as the whole lot is starting fresh at Roundview College. Although the second season may have been very dark, it was also some of the best television this decade, and I am glad that BBC America finally brought the show to these shores late last year, albeit edited and with subtitles. Like with the other seasons, I'll most likely be trolling torrent sites for the episodes, but it will be worth it as the word is that the premiere episode is one of the best yet.

The Joy Formidable "Cradle"

2009-01-20T00:30:00.001-05:00

Myspace // "Cradle" [Audio]

Hailing from North Wales, The Joy Formidable now reside in London and have been gaining quite a buzz lately, with The Guardian citing them as "one to watch" and NME describing their music as "Epic, melodic, hand-shandy pop from a band who understand the true joys of life."

The band's second single, "Cradle," will be released next month in the UK, while an 8 track mini album, A Balloon Called Moaning, is slated to be released in Japan shortly as well. Pre-order here from Pure Groove. It is limited to 500 special edition copies with a screen-printed cover.

Tracklist:
01 The Greatest Light Is The Greatest Shade
02 Cradle
03 Austere
04 While The flies
05 Whirring
06 9669
07 The Last Drop
08 Ostrich