Pittsburgh Music Report

Show Review - Jaymay - 1.25.12 - Club Cafe - Pittsburgh - Concert Review - Live Review

2012-01-28T20:24:00.002-05:00

This is going to be a short, short review (if you want to call it that). Needless to say, if you missed Jaymay Wednesday night at Club Cafe you should regret it (Hugh). The performance was the best by a solo artist I have seen in quite some time. Club Cafe was at capacity this evening with over 100 in attendance making the room difficult to navigate. When she was here in 2008 I recall half that. It's really nice to see her audience grow, especially in Pittsburgh, since she has been off the radar for a couple of years. Her in-between song banter was priceless (see videos) allowing the audience into the meaning of her songs, sarcastic remarks and a dig on bloggers. Charismatic, funny, captivating .... She's got the package. If you have a chance make sure to catch her.

Cults v. Saturday Looks Good to Me

2012-01-28T09:47:00.002-05:00

I was listening to my ipod on random the other day and heard a song that I swore was by Saturday Looks Good to Me. I looked up and strange enough it was Cults 'Never Heal Myself'. Thought that was pretty odd until I started going through the album again and heard bits and pieces of SLGTM. Not saying that they are ripping off SLGTM, but some of there album definitely treads around the edges. While SLGTM never became close in popularity, Cults have taken that formula and taken it to the next level. Checkout the two beginnings from the below songs.

Show Review - The Lemonheads - 1.16.12 - Stage AE - Pittsburgh - Concert Review - Live Review

2012-01-22T20:28:00.000-05:00

When I heard the Lemonheads were doing a 20 year celebrationconcert for Its A Shame About Ray, I was super excited. Surely this album was a standout amongst themany that defined my adolescence. Whenwe arrived at Stage AE we thought that based on the amount of cars it would beempty, however this club was the most packed show I have seen there. After waiting an unnecessary long time afterthe opener, Evan Dando finally came out. He played a handful of songs solo and acoustic and I did not recognizeany of them. I was fearing the old baitand switch, where was the promised album performance that undoubtedly all hadcome to see? The crowd of mostly 30-40somethings did not seem to enthralled either.

Thankfully, soon the band appeared and they launched into 'RockinStroll' and the crowd perked up. Yep thisis what we all anticipated seeing. Dando, who was a bit withdrawn in the beginning, began to ease up andseemed pretty happy to be playing. Mypersonal favorite was 'My Drug Buddy', I always loved that tune. I have to admit that it definitely missed theadded layer of Juliana Hatfields voice to complete the song. She was missed throughout, however the endresult of the performance was still satisfying to me.

It seemed as though the 1-2 punch of 'Bit Part' and 'Alisons Starting To Happen' really was the high point of the show. The entire crowd really seemed to go wild at this point, vigorously singing and bopping along. I will say that I left before they could sing Mrs. Robinson. Now I know that cover may have put them on the mainstream map and probably was their biggest hit, but I love Simon and Garfunkle and never really was too jazzed about their rendition. I definitely walked away feeling satisfied with the show. Its got to be hard to play an uberpopular album 20 years later, especially when you haven’t been on the radar for most of that time, and still please the fans. Dando and Co. pulled it off though.

Ticket Giveaway - Dare Dukes -Interview - Club Cafe - 1.27.12 - Show Preview - Concert Preview

2012-01-20T19:33:00.001-05:00

Dare Dukes will be performing at Club Cafe on 1.27 opening for Emily Rodgers. The Savannah, GA based artist is touring behind his new album Thugs and China Dolls released on Mazarine Records this month. He had assistance from several other acts including TV on the Radio, Of Montreal and Jim White. We are happy to be giving away a pair of tickets to the show. As usual just email us with your name at pghmusicreport@gmail.com

Dare was kind enough to answer our questions about his new album, residing in Savannah and his subject material for his lyrics.

You have lived in a multitude of cities while growing up. How did you end up in Savannah? How do you like residing in a true southern city?

Well, I grew up in Saratoga, CA (near San Francisco). But at 17 I was off to the races. Lived in Boston, Minneapolis, New York City, and now Savannah. My wife and I moved down here from New York City four years ago. She was offered a job teaching anthropology at Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD). We had just married, and we were looking for an adventure. We visited and immediately loved it. So we leapt, and we promised to never compare Savannah to New York City, because it was clear then and still is that they are very different cities.

Savannah is one of the most beautiful, most exotic, and weirdest places I’ve ever lived. I didn’t realize just how weird until I’d lived here a couple years. In many ways, good and bad, it’s a hundred years behind the rest of the country. I still can’t believe some of the things I see while driving down the street--incredible beauty juxtaposed with images of poverty that are unreal. One of the weirdest and most counter-productive forces here is the drive to turn the historic district into a museum, a simulacrum of a pretty antebellum South where there’s next to no representation of the history of slavery and no room for an aesthetics of the new (though Banana Repbulics and McDonalds are fine, apparently). As an outsider, it’s extraordinarily glaring. The other thing that’s painfully apparent is how race and class are conflated here. Savannah has a very high poverty rate--almost 22%--and something like 80% of those living below the poverty level are African American. This stark fact, of course, doesn’t worm its way into the museum zone. But you have to drive only a couple of blocks east or west of the tourist center to be smack in the middle of some of the poorest neighborhoods in America. And this isn’t Robert Moses poverty. This is old poverty, shotgun-shack poverty like you see in old footage of President Johnson’s War on Poverty. It's a trip.

I should say that I don’t think Savannah or the South have cornered the market on bad things, like structural racism. Savannah’s history, for sure, is stark for obvious reasons, but I don’t think the North or the West get a pass just because slavery didn’t happen there.

“Old West Broad,” the first song on the new record, is specifically about these clashing forces of beauty and badness in Savannah. West Broad used to be the name of what’s now, ironically, called MLK Boulevard. When MLK was West Broad it was a thriving center of African-American business and culture. Apparently there were some amazing jazz clubs there in the 60s. And I think it was a Jewish center, as well. Then, like in many an urban center across the US in the 70s, they built a flyover from an Interstate that literally cut the neighborhood in half. Then the population was displaced, Robert Moses-style, into dreary public housing that, if you squint, looks like a prison. They killed a neighborhood in the name of progress. I used this event in “Old West Broad” as a way into treating the stark juxtaposition of beauty and ugliness in Savannah. Very challenging.

Anyway, so living in the South has been very interesting, for sure. There's lots to think and write about down here. And I must also say that the people are extraordinarily hospitable and generous of spirit in ways that are unimaginable in the west or north. It's easy to get into long, lazy conversations with strangers here.

<a href="http://daredukes.bandcamp.com/album/thugs-and-china-dolls">Thugs and China Dolls by Dare Dukes</a>

Your new album Thugs and China Dolls is billed as having members of Sufjan Stevens, Of Montreal and TV On the Radio. How did these partnerships come about? How much influence did they have in constructing your songs?

Thayer Sarrano, who plays with of Montreal, came to me through Claire Campbell of another terrific Athens band (that deserves national attention) called Hope for Agoldensummer. Claire is a very generous soul. After only a little prodding, she acted as my tour guide of sorts for the Athens music scene. She introduced me to Suny Lyons, her band mate, and the owner of Popheart Productions, where the record was recorded. I liked Suny's work as an engineer and producer, and I enlisted his help with the record. My steady band at the time (Blake Helton, Daniel Beauregard, Chris VanBrackle, Anna Chandler) tracked basics, and then I started layering on all the magical instruments I also wish I had—horns, strings, keys, synths. So Suny and Claire helped me pull in the amazing Thayer (of Montreal) and the amazing JoJo Glidewell (Modern Skirts). I had a tough time recording horns in Athens for some reason, so I did it in Brooklyn. I know an amazing trombonist up there, Kevin Moehringer (who also played on my first record). He had just tracked horns for TV on the Radio's latest record, and he gathered that same crew of horn players for me. They were phenomenal to work with. Came in and just nailed it.

A friend, Marla Hansen, has a huge presence on the record. I met Marla at an open mic night in the East Village years ago, right after I started taking my music seriously again after a long hiatus. She went on to record and tour with an incredible list of people (Sufjan Stevens, the National, My Brightest Diamond, DM Stith, Kanye West, to name only a few). And when I was struggling to find a female voice that could nail one very tricky song, I thought of her. We emailed her the tracks in Berlin, Germany, where she lives with her fiance. After the first song worked out so well, we tracked her vocals and viola on several songs. Thank god for the internet.

And I can't list of the cast of characters without talking about Jim White. Jim produced one song, “Simon Says,” and he did an incredible job. I met him last year when I was lucky enough to get put on a bill with him in Athens. He was very kind and supportive. I played “Simon Says” solo at that gig, and he like it. At that pointed I had recorded it twice with two slightly different bands and I wasn't happy with the arrangement. I was very close to dumping it from the record. I gave it to Jim to produce and he turned it into this off-kilter chamber piece. He managed to find the perfect blend of poignant and strange—which is exactly the nature of crumbling relationships, the subject of the song.

Your musical content appears to resonate around non mainstream characters and life. What is your fascination with these factions? Would you consider yourself in this same category?

I think that humans just might save us from the ill effects of humanity as a whole. There's a great deal of pressure to franchise not just our food, but our culture, our thinking, and values. I'd like to say it's worse than ever, but I suspect there have always been bad ideas adopted on large scales. These ideas are eroded by regular people like you and me, misbehaving, disrupting, being rude, not doing what they're told, or inventing eccentric work-arounds to the everyday invisible obstacles to light and joy. Some of these strange people do it intentionally. Others do it quite by accident, just by having a particular knack for being who they were meant to be. Such people are like saints to me. They make miracles happen in the desert.

In your bio it stated you wrote for a while in NYC before coming back to music. What made you decide to try it again?

Music insisted itself upon me again. Really. I'd had a band in Minneapolis that no one has ever heard of. It was heavily influence by my adoration of bands like the Pixies and Fugazi and maybe a little Nick Cave and Jesus Lizard and PJ Harvey. Then I moved to New York and, over a long and tortured time, wrote a long-winded and tortured novel that not many people could get to the end of. I got an agent then watched it get rejected a lot by a lot of publishers. I was working on a second one and feeling worn out and idealess and lonely. And I looked around and saw all these songs and fragments of songs I'd been writing but neglecting over the years, like orphans. It suddenly seemed ill-advised to ignore these little critters. Like they might eat me if I turned my back on them. And a dear, dear friend looked me in the eye one day and said that it was god's business, not mine, this little talent I had. And that to ignore it would be self-centered and self-destructive and wasteful. Her words took me by surprise and sounded true, and she had tears in her eyes so I knew she wasn't bullshitting me. So I set out to cultivate my music a touch more. I had friends who were pro musicians, so I asked them to back me. They generously did. I would be miserable for days in advance of a show. Performing still scares me. But I do it because it is the most important point of communication for a musician. The earplug experience just can't compare to hearing sound of the singer's breath in the same room.

<a href="http://daredukes.bandcamp.com/album/thugs-and-china-dolls">Thugs and China Dolls by Dare Dukes</a>

How many eccentric characters are found in Savannah that you wrote about? It’s a quite a unique city.

The place is jam-packed with them. It's a southern city, but it's also not. There's a high degree of tolerance here for the weird. I'm told that's because it's a port city, and port cities attract people who don't fit in.

You utilize an assortment of instruments on this album including the accordion, mandolin, upright bass, cello, viola, trombone and french horn. How proficient are you with these? And why utilize so many?

I'm not proficient in any of them! I'm a guitar player, and not a very good one. And I can also sort of play banjo very ineptly, but only if I tune it like a guitar. I'm really a songwriter. Every time I sit down to get better at guitar I end up writing a song instead. But what I am good at is arranging my music and picking excellent players to manifest those arrangements. Why did I pick these instruments for the songs? The basic instrumentation was rooted in what was available to me in my backup band. Savannah has a very small music scene, so if you want to be a musician here you must learn to adapt to the personnel on hand, or play solo. I've never been that interested in playing solo, because when I compose my songs I hear a full band and arrangements. The reason the record is largely acoustic is because once it became clear to me that those were the instruments available to me I started writing for those instruments, especially banjo (“Meet You at the Bus”) and accordion (“Jim Eggers' Parrot”).

<a href="http://daredukes.bandcamp.com/album/thugs-and-china-dolls">Thugs and China Dolls by Dare Dukes</a>

When you are creating your music do you enlist others to assist with lyrics/structure? Or do you perform most of this on your own? What is your current process?

I hear music in my head. I don't have to decide to activate anything to make that happen. It's just there. The musical and melodic cores of my songs fall out of my head almost effortlessly. Can you imagine? This is a great gift, and a nice and entertaining thing, and probably a little bothersome to my loved ones, who often wonder why I'm mumbling and humming to myself most of the time. The process for the words is the opposite, in most instances. They come hard and only with patience and a commitment to staring at the whiteness of the blank page. Writing a novel helped a lot with my lyric writing. I gained patience in the slow workings of words emerging. I am a bad collaborator. Ask my band members. And I've never really tried to write a song with anyone. I don't really have any interest in it. It's hard enough collaborating with myself.

What are your upcoming goals? What would you like to accomplish?

The tour, I hope, will bring our music to a bigger audience. We'll be traveling with a 6-piece band, which is pretty ginormous for me on the road. One of my goals is to be nice to everyone in the van. And I'm looking forward to meeting all the kind people who've booked shows with and for us.

What made you want to dedicate your life to music? Was there a show or album?

I don't feel like I really had a say in the matter. It's just in me and it insists on coming out.

Anything you would like to say to Pittsburgh?

I'm very thrilled about the Pittsburgh show. This will be my first time not just playing but visiting your town, and I've always heard great things about the art scene there. I'm also excited to play with Emily Rodgers and the Turpentiners! I love their music and still can't believe I get to share a stage with such smart and talented people.

Show is scheduled to start at 10:30p with doors at 10p. Tickets are only $7 and can be found here. More information on Dare Dukes can be found at these links:

http://www.daredukes.com/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Dare-Dukes-Band
http://www.myspace.com/daredukes

Ticket Giveaway - Jaymay - Interview - 1.25.12 - Club Cafe - Show Preview - Concert Preview

2012-01-18T18:07:00.000-05:00

Back in 2008 I went to see an artist known as Jaymay at Club Cafe. Simply put, I was smitten with her performance. She easily made my top show list for that year. At the time she was residing in London on record label EMI, touring frequently on both continents. When I saw she was coming back through our area I reached out to her for an interview. It was one of the most open conversations I have conducted with an artist on record. She holds nothing back.

The singer/songwriter now resides in NYC putting her music out independently. She is up for an Oscar Nomination for her original music in the film 'Happythankyoumoreplease'. She spoke to us about the nomination as well as her independence from labels, her European adventures and her feeling on encores.

We are happy to be giving away a pair of tickets to the show courtesy of double O Productions. As usual, just email us at pghmusicreport@gmail.com with your name.

The last time you were here in Pgh (2008) you were residing in London working with EMI. It appears you are back in NYC? What made you move back? Still with the same label?

While I was in the UK most of my time was spent touring. The longest I spent in one spot was two weeks at a time in London. Otherwise, I was out on the road constantly. I moved back to NYC because it’s my favorite place. I was with a label called Heavenly in England which was a subsidiary of EMI. I was signed with Blue Note in the US, so I was touring worldwide. EMI dropped me and I was really happy. I am not the kind of artist who should be on a major label. I don’t feel I need a full length album, then tour, and then make another studio album. I do much better on my own terms.

&amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;a href="http://jaymay.bandcamp.com/album/long-walk-to-never-ep"&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;Long Walk To Never EP by Jaymay&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;gt;

How was your time in the UK? What are the differences between music scenes here compared to over the pond?

When I was touring the UK I was opening for larger bands such as Bright Eyes, Jose Gonzales, Okkervil River…so I was exposed to a very large audience. In Italy I always found the crowd to be so warm, wanting to talk to you, even if they don’t understand the language. They are very, reactive, embracive and loud. They applaud a lot and like to interject.

England was more reserve. I really had to work hard. I describe it as a city that took from you but gave nothing back. In a way that can be very inspiring because it makes you want to earn it and win their respect. But it was definitely hard.

In Scotland I felt they had less pretension than anywhere else. Everyone was so genuine, they were definitely there for the music. In Ireland I felt really respected because they crowds were fascinated with storytelling (which my music is).

One of your songs “Never Be Daunted” is in the mix with a possible Oscar nomination. How did this song come about for the film “Thankyoumoreplease”? How does the possibility of being nominated feel?

Josh Radnor (Ted Mosby from How I Met Your Mother) wrote, direct and stars in this film. His friend sent him a song of mine and Josh got it on the second season finale of HIMYM. He contacted me and asked that I read his screenplay for the movie. I was so inspired by it because it was relatable with the plot being about New Yorkers and all the relationships. It resonated with me because that is where I live and have similar experiences. I wrote a couple of songs for it, one being ‘Never Be Daunted’. He then gave me a pre-edited version of the movie and I wrote another song, ‘Rock, Paper, Scissors’. When they heard the songs they decided to score the film with my music (14 songs in total). I only wrote three songs for the film itself. To be nominated for an Oscar you have to write a song specific for the film which was ‘Never Be Daunted’.

It’s down to 39 contenders. They have actually already voted but they announce the nominees on January 24th. To be nominated you have to score 8.25 or higher and there can be up to 5 nominees. The songs are clips of the film so you have to view it in its complete context. It’s really competitive because The Muppets and Winne the Pooh are in contention as well.

It appears from your site that you have released a series of EP’s and singles. Is there a reason you have yet to release a full LP?

What really happened was when I was dropped by EMI, the contract was still not over and they owed me money. It was over a year and a half before I could release music under Jaymay Music. If I had released anything it would have been owned by EMI which I refused to do. While I was on the road I didn’t even sell my album because I didn’t want to support the label. I just sold my EP. I ended up just writing and recording during this time.

When I finally became Jaymay Music again, I took a look at my work. I felt it was haphazard, jumbled with no running theme because it was just this dry collection. I have a ton of singles that I am just trying to organize now. But all this music will come out. I really want to write a full length album. I have been writing a lot of songs on the piano; I feel my sound has really changed and want to make sure I capture it in LP form. It won’t be anytime in the near future. I am just going to put out music in the meantime. I am basically playing catch up with myself.

When you are creating your music do you enlist others to assist with lyrics/structure? Or do you perform most of this on your own?

I do everything myself. I have produced all my music. I do work with others but I play and create all when recording.

&amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;a href="http://jaymay.bandcamp.com/album/sea-green-see-blue-ep"&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;Sea Green, See Blue. EP by Jaymay&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;gt;

Last time you were here you stated you don’t like to perform encores but did so because of the crowd’s appreciation. Has this changed at all? Why don’t you enjoy it?

For me it’s so ridiculous because it’s just inevitable especially when you go to a big show. The whole thing of walking offstage and coming back on is not something I enjoy. I just want the show to be amazing and then I want to leave. When I am playing for such a small audience it seems so silly to be this single person onstage with a guitar in a room that sometimes doesn’t have a backstage. To do an encore in a small room what does it really mean?

In Italy they have this thing called bis. At the end of your set they yell bis, bis, bis, and you are supposed to play a repeat of your best song or part of it. If you don’t do it, it’s the most non-respectful thing you could do. You have to do it. I am all about giving the people what they want, but I am also about playing my set and leaving.

What made you want to dedicate your life to music?

It was the Sidewalk Café. I had a revelation; I have been writing since middle school. I was obsessed with words and word play involving little poems about my dog or anything around. I was also playing the piano and violin. In college I started really writing songs. I bought a guitar when I was 18. I would just perform these songs in my room never performing out. Then in my sophomore year I was on break and a friend of mine took me to the Fireside Cafe where she performed a song. I was just like, “She is so brave. I can’t believe she is playing her own music.” I promised myself the same thing. When I graduated I moved to NYC and went to the open mic where I performed my one song. I just knew…

&amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;a href="http://jaymay.bandcamp.com/album/lvng-rm-ep"&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;LVNG RM EP by Jaymay&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;gt;

You are often thrown into the ‘anti folk’ genre based on your lyrics and acoustic sound. Do you think this is a fair assessment?

I don’t know what anti-folk means to be honest. I am involved in the scene according to them, but all it means to me if you had somewhat success or you started there (Sidewalk Cafe) people label you. Lach is the founder of anti-folk movement…like Regina Spector, Langhorne Slim, The Moldy Peaches…all those people came from the scene, but to me anti-folk doesn’t mean anything; you just performed at the Sidewalk Cafe open mic nights. There is no message we are trying to convey.

Anything you would like to say to Pittsburgh?

I can’t wait for the show. I loved playing there last time. I got the best sweatshirt of my life there. It’s black with gold dinosaurs. It’s so amazing. I fell asleep on an airplane once and a woman said, “If you fall asleep I am taking that sweatshirt right off your body.” It’s a great sweatshirt.

Doors are at 7p with the show at 8p. Greg Dutton and The Wreckids will open. Tickets are only $10 and can be found here.

Lana Del Rey - Saturday Night Live - 1.14.12

2012-01-15T20:57:00.002-05:00

I was just catching up with my DVR and was watching Lana Del Rey perform on SNL last night. Honestly, I had no idea who this person is (I realize now the buzz around her). I have heard her song 'Video Games' (which I like) but never knew who sang it.

I actually enjoy her music, but you could tell from her performance she is way out of her realm. Looking uncomfortable, frightened and not even coming close to a professional audition, LDR was clueless on how to perform to a live national audience. She was heavily criticized via twitter and national media. When I watched her, I just wanted to hit her in the face. She annoyed me that much with her poofed hair, doily dress and humorous seductive attempts at dancing.

But don't feel too sorry for her. She has a multi-millionaire father who has been running her career since infancy. She shouldn't have any issue later on. But judge for yourself.

Interviews et al

2012-01-12T22:46:00.001-05:00

Had one of the best interviews I have had tonight. The artist was actually supplying me with more than enough information minus the canned answers which I truly appreciate. Be on the lookout soon.

Plus, had a good time with a local artist over drinks. Be on the lookout.

Coachella Festival 2012

2012-01-10T20:39:00.000-05:00

I used to make a pilgrimage to the Coachella Festival every year. It's in the desert near Palm Springs, California and can be a nightmare for concert goers with one 2 lane road into the grounds and an uncomfortable dry heat. The lineup was just released yesterday and it provided an interesting mix plus a new twist. There are a bunch of throwback bands that are reforming to play the show. This includes Pulp, Refused (who stated they would never reform), At the Drive In, Jeff Magnum and Godspeed You! Black Emperor.

The new twist is they are performing not one, but two weekends. That means Radiohead, The Black Keys, Beirut, etc are sticking around in the area for the week. While I can see this for major headliners, the smaller bands doubtfully will stick around due to trying to make a living. A bit of false advertisement by the promoters.

I would love to check out some of these acts that I wasn't able to see in my youth (Refused, Pulp), but it's a bit of a trip. I guess the economy is doing well enough for the festival to throw a good bit of money out for these acts to reform. I like the idea (except Refused...come on you were always about the punk aesthetic) of these acts reforming and getting paid when they struggled back in the day. Maybe I will make the trip this year.

Show Preview - Lemonheads - 1.16.12 - Stage AE - Concert Preview

2012-01-09T20:52:00.001-05:00

I am a proud product of the 90's and have always felt a definite nostalgia for all pop culture that era. One of the quintessential television shows of that decade was My So Called Life. Featuring a 15 year old Claire Danes, and based in our own town of Pittsburgh, the show only lasted one season but had mass influences from fashion, gay culture and of course music. This is how I first experienced such 90's stalwarts as Buffalo Tom, Daniel Johnston and of course The Lemonheads. After hearing the music featured on the show, I quickly picked up a copy of the soundtrack and soon after grabbed The Lemonheads LP.

Their 1992 album, It's A Shame About Ray, was simply a classic. In an era of Seattle grunge, Dando and band provided an outstanding pop album and that had the masses and critics raving. It also provided an outlet for a genre that wasn't getting play on MTV at the time. The album pressed Evan Dando into the national spotlight, for better or worse. Fast forward 20 years later and the band just released Laughing All The Way To The Cleaners - The Best Of Lemonheads on January 2nd. It's a 47 track double album featuring may versions of the bands past and present portfolio.

The band had been on hiatus until 2005 when they began touring and recording once again. While never hitting Pittsburgh, the band toured the world and just recently announced a date in here featuring their 1992 classic album, It's A Shame About Ray. Dando will perform the album’s 13-tracks alongside guitarist Josh Lattanzi (The Candles) and drummer Brian Nolan (American Hi-Fi). Nostalgia awaits.

The show will be at Club Stage AE (more intimate than their normal stage) and will begin at 8p with doors at 7p. Tickets are $15 and can be found here.

Local Spotlight - Horse or Cycle - January 2012

2012-01-04T10:44:00.000-05:00

Horse or Cycle is our local spotlight for the month of January. The quartet is made up of Phil Johnson [drums, backing vocals], Ricky Moslen [guitars, bass], Chris Ryan [guitars, bass], and Liam Cooney [vocals, guitar] who create late 90's style indie rock. Horse or Cycle just released a new EP entitled Godsmack You! Black Emperor (nice title) and will be having the cd release show this Satuday, January 7th at Gooski's. Included on the bill are Allies, Skinless Boneless and Strip Club. Liam Cooney was kind enough to answer our spotlight questions. Be sure to checkout their streaming album.

How did the band come together? Were you all friends that went to school? or?

HOC started in earnest early 2009. Chris and Rick had played in other bands together and are from the area. I met Chris through a mutual friend a started recording things with him in 2008. I am transplant to this fair city and originally from New England. Phil our drummer is from Indianapolis, Indiana and we met him through his other band we had played with.

&amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;a href="http://horseorcycle.bandcamp.com/album/godsmack-you-black-emperor"&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;Godsmack You! Black Emperor by Horse or Cycle&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;gt;

How would you describe your sound to someone who has never heard you?

I could best describe our sound as loud indie rock. But there are so many sub-categories of genres these days im sure someone wiser could break it down a bit further.

Do you all create music full time or is this more of a part time venture?

We all have day jobs. Some more flexible than others. Two of us are married, and I have a 3 year old so we try and get everyone schedules to mesh in order to practice, write and tour.

How do you create your music? What is the song writing process?

I write the lyrics and the basic structure of the song and everyone else writes their own parts, it is a very democratic process. Which is to say slow and ham stringed by special interests.

&amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;a href="http://horseorcycle.bandcamp.com/album/godsmack-you-black-emperor"&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;Godsmack You! Black Emperor by Horse or Cycle&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;gt;

What are your goals for the band? What would you like to accomplish? Are you trying to get signed to a label?

Our goals for music are pretty simple. We try and make music that is fun for us to play and listen to. The bonus is that it appeals to some folks other than the 4 of us.

What advice would you give to local acts trying to make it?

The only advice I would pass on to newer bands is try to look like you are enjoying what you are doing on stage. Ive been to so many shows, and especially indie rock shows, where the band looks like they are enduring water torture while on stage. Always remember that people paid to see you, so entertain a crowd and it will be easier for them to dig your music. How am I supposed to enjoy the very thing makes you look like your passing a kidney stone?

Have you all toured nationally? Or do you usually stay more regionally?

Touring we try to keep to about 5 days at a time. Try and do regional tours, so midwest one time, east coast another time.

You can find more information about the band at these links:

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Horse-or-Cycle/179994348705874?ref=ts
http://horseorcycle.bandcamp.com/
http://www.myspace.com/horseorcycle

Top Shows and Albums 2011

2012-01-02T11:52:00.001-05:00

And now for my picks. Difficult year with regards to albums for me. I always choose my 'top of' list by selecting records I listened to over and over again with out tiring of them.

Top 2011 Albums

1a. Guards - Guards EP - Leftover songs from Cult sessions, Richie Fallon brings a charisma and garage sound that did the trick for me. That 50's echo mixed in with several danceable tracks was a throwback to yesteryear.

1b. Ume - Sunshower EP - After seeing this band perform earlier this year, you had to buy their EP. This was on rotation (and still is) for over 8 months now. While their recently released LP was a let down, this thrashing homage to mid 90's girl rock puts you in a past era which we rarely experience.

2. Karkwa - Les chemins de verre - This album actually came out in 2010 when I wasn't even aware of the band. All I can say is where was I? They get compared to Sigur Ros in the states, but really that is only because they sing in French. It's not as 'atmospherical' as Ros, but simply one of the best albums I have heard in a while. It won the Canadian Grammy.

3. EMA - Past Life Martyred Saints - I picked this as my favorite midway through the year and it still resonates with me. I stopped listening to it after July but recently picked it up again. Didn't miss a beat.

Top 2011 Shows

1. Wise Blood - 4.10.11 - Liquid Sundays - Probably the most fun I had at a show all year. First, this was a place of worship who booked WB for reasons they only know. Second, they told him no drinking onstage (they were serving alcohol the whole night), no cursing, no drugs, etc. (mine as will give him a lighter). The performance was going well for the sparse crowd who probably had never heard any of his music before he was cutoff by management. Yes, he had a few choice words, swigged a beer onstage, mentioned coke, but come on? What did you expect? It was hilarious watching the manager try her best to coral his antics and hearing the aftermath.

2. Karkwa - 12.7.11 - Brillobox - One of the most disappointing attendances for a phenomenal act that sells out all over the world in venues of 3k+. For all those musically inclined yinzers who didn't bother to even acknowledge, it was disappointing. French Canadians that know how to perform for thousands including the 20 that showed up this evening.

3. Muse - 8.5.11 - Lollapalooza - One of the most consistently phenomenal live acts going for the past 8 years. I have seen them three times now and this was their best show yet. It probably helps it was 10p and they shot off a 4th of July like fireworks display during 'Hysteria'. Just fun loving Brits.

Top Shows and Albums of 2011

2011-12-29T19:51:00.001-05:00

And we continue down our 'best of' list with Shannon Smith. I don't get the appeal of Bon Iver by the way. Overrated. But whatever.

Top 2011 Albums

1. Bon Iver - 'Bon Iver, Bon Iver'
2. M83 - 'Hurry Up We're Dreaming'
3. Zola Jesus - 'Conatus'

Top 2011 Shows

1. Future Islands - Mr Smalls - 10.26.11
2. Mogwai - Mr Smalls - 4.27.11
3. Cold Cave - Brillobox - 5.22.11

--Shannon Smith

Top Shows and Albums of 2011

2011-12-28T20:41:00.001-05:00

There is something inexplicable about this time of year that always gives me goosebumps. I don't know if it's the power of Christmas, change of season or seeing family and friends with an annual visit. I was feeling this nostalgia until I drove home today and proceeded to get in an accident, which will cost me dearly, tacking onto my over budgeted xmas travels and spending. Of course my fault.....But another year. We begin our countdown of the top albums and shows of 2011 by writer. First up is Jonathon Puff who saw more out of area shows this year while racking up plenty of skymiles. Here are his list:

Top 2011 Albums

1. Metronomy - The English Rivieria
2. SBTRKT - SBTRKT
3. Death Grips - Ex-Military
4. Radiohead - The King of Limbs
5. Panda Bear - Tomboy
6. M83 - Hurry Up, We're Dreaming
7. Modeselektor - Monkeytown
8. The Antlers - Burst Apart
9. My Morning Jacket - Circuital
10. Fleet Foxes - Helplessness Blues

Top 2011 Shows (Yes, I saw more shows outside of PGH this year)

1. My Morning Jacket - Bonnaroo Manchester, TN
2. LCD Soundsystem - Last Show - MSG - NYC, NY
3. Queens of the Stone Age - HOB, Cleveland, OH
4. The Avett Brothers - Stage AE, Pittsburgh, PA
5. James Blake - The Fillmore, San Francisco, CA
6. Eminem - Bonnaroo Manchester, TN
7. Band of Skulls - Bonnaroo Manchester, TN
8. Portishead - The Greek Theater, Berkeley, CA
9. Arcade Fire - Bonnaroo Manchester, TN
10. Mogwai - Mr. Smalls, Pittsburgh, PA

--Jonathon Puff

Show Review - Beirut - 12.10.11 - Altar Bar - Pittsburgh - Concert Review - Live Review

2011-12-18T22:37:00.000-05:00

Two surprising sold out evenings with Beirut,two stellar shows. The location of the venue seemed suited for Beirutthemselves. Housed at the Altar Bar, a refurbished Basilica Church, the band mixes EasternEuropean folk with indie and Mexican funeral. The opener for the evening wasPerfume Genius, aka Mike Hadreas, whose bedroom music I have enjoyed for thepast few months. Featured on Matador Records, PM is releasing a new album inFebruary, but his performance this evening was overshadowed by a boisterouscrowd. Not once could I discern his music, much less is lyrics. The capacity Pittsburghaudience didn’t let him have a chance (checkout the video). He would be betterfeatured in a venue such as Club Café or Club Stage AE (not Brillo).

The audience was more respectful when Beirutmade their appearance, cheering upon their entry before bringing it down to ahush tone for the first song ‘Scenic World’. Lead man Zach Condon led the sixpiece band which included among other instruments trumpet, tuba, trombone andaccordion making a mix of their soviet mariachi sound. Their live performancetranscends their albums bringing a mesh of warm and heavy sound without muchimprovisation from the band or banter between songs. The group was tightcreating the passion and zeal for the sold out onlookers who hung on every note.

The 23 year old Zach Condon came out by himself for theencore beginning with ‘The Penalty’ on the ukulele. For such a young man heappears to have grown over the past several years understanding how toentertain, compared to other reviews at the early stages of his career. Afterthe solo, the band arrived again and finished the set with ‘My Night with theProstitute from Marseille’ and ‘The Gulag Orkestar’. The crowd showed theirapproval at every tune, replying with clear satisfaction until the set ended.

I didn’t realize how popular Beirutwas until the surprising two sold out shows here in Pittsburgh.I could see them growing even larger and soon selling out a place like HeinzHall where an older audience could appreciate them. Nothing but up for theseyoungsters.

Gone Fishing - Vacation December

2011-12-10T23:13:00.001-05:00

We are going fishing for most of December. We will post when we are able. But check out a few videos from recent shows including

Last night. Beirut.

Karkwa. One of the best shows this year in pgh. Too bad there were not more to enjoy. They won the Canadian Grammy.

Waters opening for CYHSY

Show Preview - Beirut - 12.10 & 12.11 - Altar Bar - Concert Preview

2011-12-07T18:25:00.001-05:00

The show of the month is without a doubt Beirut performing at the Altar Bar for two straight evenings sponsored by 91.3 WYEP. Just so happens that both nights are already sold out, so good luck in finding at ticket (or you can try winning a pair from Mr Hugh Shows). The band is touring behind their new album Rip Tide released this past June.

Beirut is Zach Codon. Spending time both in Newport News and Santa Fe, Codon dropped out of HS when he was 16. He began working in an international cinema coming into influences of Balkan and Sicilian Brass. His music is often synonymous with the exotic mysteries of world travel. Since Beirut's last album, 2007's The Flying Club Cup, sang a love letter to France (with a 2009 stop-off in Mexico for the March of the Zapotec EP) many have asked where his songs would voyage next. Lots of guesses, but few predicted the inward journey Condon has achieved on The Rip Tide, an album with the most introspective and memorable songs of his young career.

From his press regarding the label:

The album is on Pompeii Records, a label started and wholly owned by Condon. Pompeii is a fully independent, artist run, label and it is releasing The Rip Tide internationally. This extreme level of creative control is what the band has always preferred. Shows often sell-out because they choose to play smaller, more intimate venues. This connection directly to fans extends to The Rip Tide release itself, the desire to be able to 100% decide what their music will sound, look, and feel like, not to mention how it can be obtained.

Shows begin at 8p with Perfume Genius opening. Find more information here:

http://thealtarbar.com/calendar.php

Show Preview - Delicious Pastries - Record Release Show - 12.9.11 - Thunderbird Cafe

2011-12-07T17:13:00.001-05:00

We featured Delicious Pastries back in May of last year. Well come to find out they are holding their first album release show this Friday, 12.9. The performance will be at the Thunderbird Cafe in Lawerenceville and will also include locals Good Night, States. Their new album is entitled Pretty Please and features their 60's retro pop sound. Below is the track to their first single and "Safe & Sound":

&amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;a href="http://deliciouspastries.bandcamp.com/track/safe-sound"&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;safe &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp; sound by delicious pastries&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;gt;

Show begins at 10p with tickets only $7. Everyone who attends will receive a digital download code for the entire album free. You can find more information about the album and show at these below links:

http://deliciouspastries.bandcamp.com/track/safe-sound

http://www.thunderbirdcafe.net/showdetails.php?eventID=207

Ticket Giveaway - Karkwa - 12.7.11 - Brillobox - Pittsburgh - Show Preview

2011-12-06T18:05:00.001-05:00

As previously mentioned Karkwa will be playing at Brillobox tomorrow night. We have a pair of tickets to giveaway! Just email us with your name to:

pghmusicreport@gmail.com

Winner will be chosen tomorrow.

Interview - Waters - 12.6.11 - Mr Smalls - Pittsburgh - Show Preview - Concert Preview

2011-12-05T18:52:00.001-05:00

As previously mentioned, Waters will be opening for Clap Your Hands and Say Yeah tomorrow night at Mr Smalls. We were finally able to get an interview with frontman Van Pierszalowski before the show. We spoke about his time in Oslo, working with a new band and how the weather had an impact on the album. Be sure to checkout his site. Without further ado:

What made you go to Oslo once your previous band broke up? Why Oslo? What did you discover there that made you want to continue music?

Well, I first went to Oslo because I met a girl on tour there with my previous band. After the band broke up, I didn't have a place of my own, and I knew I wanted to recharge and restart, and Oslo turned out the perfect place to do that.

From your bio you continued to write while spending time in Alaska, Cali and eventually Brooklyn. How do these songs differ from your previous venture, Port O Brien?

The songs on this record were worked on a lot more than the songs in Port O'Brien. That band took ideas and chunks of melodies and threw them together in a pretty loose way. I wanted WATERS to be more focused on the songwriting. I wanted to spend the time to develop the songs more before we got into the studio.

You went back to Oslo to flesh these songs out with other musicians. Why Oslo? And then record in Dallas?

I knew I had some amazing musicians to work with in Oslo that could really help bring this project to life. Nikolai (my guitarist) had done a tour with Port O'Brien, and I knew I worked with him well. And two of his best friends happened to be an amazing drummer, and an amazing bassist, so it really just fell into place.

Was there a theme you were attempting to project on the album? Or do these songs all stand on their own?

I never try to write songs along a certain theme. That being said, I think there are some pretty obvious lyrical threads that run through the record.

You are touring behind your album Out In The Light. The musicians that assisted you from Oslo, will they be touring with you as well?

My guitarist Nikolai is playing in the band. I have a new California based rhythm section of Nicholas Wolch on drums and Alex Margitich on bass. This band is the best band I've ever had. I really have never had this much fun in the live setting.

You are more rocking (electric) than on your past venture. What made you decide to go into this direction?

I think the songs really made that decision. I've always desired to make the songs be whatever they want to be. All of the records I've made have some more rocking songs, and some more gentle songs. This one just turned out to be pretty aggressive, and I wanted the production to match that.

How was working with producer John Congleton? What made you choose him? What did he bring to the table that you weren’t expecting?

He was amazing to work with. He kept things raw and focused. He distrusted any effort to tidy things up or make things pretty sounding. He made me proud of the imperfections of my voice, and really pushed me in ways that helped make the record be honest.

Was there something in Oslo that inspired you or any of these other areas you spent time in?

All of the places that I spent time in, from Oslo to Alaska to New York, were very inspiring. I would say that I'm always inspired more by whats going on in my personal relationships than in my relationships to the places I'm in, but the context of moving around a lot, of all these diverse environments, definitely left its mark on the record.

In the bio it mentions that this is the first time you experienced seasons and this had something to do with your writing process. Is this accurate?

Yes. Growing up in the central coast of California, its pretty much always "hoodie" weather. I never even thought about buying a coat or a jacket throughout my whole life. To be all of a sudden immersed in Oslo and New York, with their very noticeable seasonal differences definitely makes it easier to mark the passage of time, and you grow to appreciate the warmer weather much more. The seasons made me feel further away from home, and distanced myself from the cozy California scene that made me better able to reflect on what I was leaving behind.

You have some interesting videos. Did you take an active part in the creation of them? Or were these a skeleton that you had and someone took over with the rest?

Well, the video for "For the One" was definitely the vision of the director, Allen Cordell. I can't take much credit for that at all. I do try to be as involved as possible in all aspects of the project, but I realize I'm not a film maker in any way, so I love picking people that I really want to work with and letting them go wild.

Was there any theme to the new album?

I would say the theme is waking up, and starting over, and not caring about what you're leaving behind.

What made you want to dedicate your life to music? Was there a show or album?

There wasn't anything specific, really. I just knew its the only thing I really ever wanted to do. Still, I can't imagine doing anything else with my life. Working in Alaska on my dad's boat is the only other thing I can think of that would really make me happy.

How do you go about creating your music? Do you all contribute to the lyrics and music?

Almost all of the songs on the WATERS record were totally completed being written before I brought them into the band. A few songs got tinkered with during the rehearsal process, or by our producer John Congleton, but by and large, they were obsessed over before they were ever really played through. The band has an enormous amount of impact on how the songs end up sounding. But for this record, I spent over a year by myself obsessing over the style and content of these songs on my own.

What would you like to accomplish with this project? Are there any goals you have?

I really want to be able to keep touring, making records, and to be able to make a living off of it. I realize that's getting harder and harder these days, but that's definitely the goal.

Anything you would like to say to Pittsburgh?

I really can't wait to play in the area again. I've only done it once, but I had such a great time, and I hope I can explore the area a little more this time around. *

http://www.thewatersmusic.com/

http://www.facebook.com/thewatersmusic

Show Preview - Waters w/Clap Your Hands and Say Yeah - 12.6.11 - Mr Smalls - Pittsburgh - Concert Preview

2011-12-03T23:02:00.001-05:00

Waters will be appearing at Mr Smalls this Tuesday, 12.6 opening for Clap Your Hands and Say Yeah. Van Pierszalowski is the lead and major contributor to WATERS having previously spent his time as a member of Port O' Brien. At the time POB broke up, Van became a roaming soul settling in such areas as Oslo, Norway, Alaska and Brooklyn. The band just recently released his first LP Out in the Light this past September to positive reviews. Von has put a great deal of time and years into this project which you can hear below.

From their bio:

Spring 2010 saw the demise of Port O’Brien, and founding member/front man Van Pierszalowski needed a break from the hectic, wonderful mess that is touring. He stumbled into respite in Oslo, Norway, and spent some time away from making music. Van explored the new city, swam in the Norwegian fjords, enjoyed the weather and the experience of seasons changing. He found his bearings and fell in love again.

Inspiration arrived and as he wrote, Van was compelled to fuel the process further by changing his environment once more. He spent most of the next year traveling: to Alaska, where he’d spent summers working on his father’s commercial salmon fishing boat; to California, where he’d grown up in a seaside town off Highway 1; and eventually to New York, where in Brooklyn he endured relentless blizzards and a cold nearly reminiscent of Oslo.

Van gave his new project a name: WATERS. These new songs he wrote veered away from the frequently loose, punchy anthems of Port O’Brien, and as he intensively pieced each one together, he sought a bigger sound – something louder than he could play on his own. So Van returned to Oslo, where his new journey had begun. He put together a band of fine Norwegian gentlemen and spent every day of the next two months rehearsing in a small practice space outside of the city.

WATERS "For the One" Official Video from WATERS on Vimeo.

The show begins at 8p with doors opening at 7p. Tickets are 17 and can be found here.

Show Preview - Karkwa - 12.7.11 - Brillobox - Pittsburgh - Concert Preview

2011-12-02T22:54:00.001-05:00

Many times bands come through our third tier market that you don't recognize nor take a listen. Do yourself a favor and check Karkwa now. The band hails from Montreal, Canada and just released their fourth LP, Les Chemins de Verre (The Glass Pathways). The highly acclaimed album just happened to win the the Polaris Music Prize (Canada's equivalent of the Grammy). They are recently coming off a tour opening for local legends Arcade Fire (Polaris winners as well) that included playing to over 100k at the 10th Anniversary of Pop Montreal.

The one rub that some might feel is their lyrics are all in French. Well, if you like Sigur Ros, etc. then take a moment and listen, this will blow you away. The band is also known for their powerful live shows, often selling out in Europe and of course their home country. They are only playing three US dates, and somehow Pittsburgh has made the cut. The other two, Chicago and New York.

From their press:

Karkwa is singer/guitarist Louis-Jean Cormier, drummer Stéphane Bergeron, keyboardist François Lafontaine, bassist Martin Lamontagne and percussionist/singer Julien Sagot. Their music is described as "restlessly inventive" and has earned the band a groundswell of popular and critical praise.

Les Chemins De Verre was recorded in part at La Frette studios in Paris. (Feist's The Reminder was also recorded here as well as legends like Serge Gainsbourg.) An inspirational venue dating from the 19th century, the building became the sixth member of the band as they returned there time and again during their French tour. A lively collection based on spontaneous impulses of creativity, this album was put together without pre-production for a more organic and impressionistic sound.

Doors are at 9p while show begins at 9:30p. Tickets can be found here.

Commentary on Local Shows

2011-11-23T17:53:00.001-05:00

I just completed a 3 month run of 60+ hours with a second job ending this past week. Since I haven't added commentary in a while, I am going to do so now regarding shows I have been fortunate to attend recently.

The big surprise came with the announcement of Levi's Braddock benefit. Many top indie acts played over a 3 night series at the Braddock library. I decided to skip out on the first night of Andrew Bird because he is consistently the most boring live act I have seen (that include 5 times). And for Andrew Bird apologists, his music is good, but you are kidding yourself if you believe he is a quality performer. He's equivalent to Animal Collective, the kind of act that just suckered you into paying $25 for a ticket, and another $25 in alcohol so you could tolerate the night.

We went the second night and checked out Built To Spill with Atlas Sound. I have to say Atlas Sound wasn't my thing in a live setting, however the stage lights and aesthetic made up for it. Whoever Levi's contracted for the stage setup did an admirable job. Bradford Cox (Atlas Sound) played solo the entire night and quite well. However, if there had been a beer tent I would have been the first in line. It wasn't bad, but it just droned on and on.

There is not enough words to describe the two decades of work Built To Spill has produced. Onstage they are the tightest act you will see live. They also don't skimp out on the their hit songs, playing a wide range from their catalogue. The only problem with BTS is that there is no draw visually to them. They don't say or do much with the crowd. But they are so loud and composed, you really don't notice.Some kid asked Doug Martsch if everyone could stand, which I wish he would have said no. It's such a PITA trying to look over a 6'5" dude in a theater setting, there is nowhere to move. Doug et al were well worth it.

I had never heard of Fitz and the Tantrums before they made their stop at Mr Smalls earlier this month. Their show was not just about the music, but the flash, dance and outfits they brought to stage. Drawing back to some doo-wop groups from the 60's, the band mirrored a lost time when performance was just as important as the music. The place was almost at sellout capacity with quite a variety of ages. FATT probably need a few more songs to keep their momentum. While they have their hits "Moneygrabber" and "Don't Gonna Work It", I feel a few of the songs just fell flat on the crowd. But a very fun band to watch.

Last act I want to mention is ExitMusic who opened for Phantogram at Mr Smalls in October. I really was looking forward to this show because Aleksa Palladino is on Boardwalk Empire (currently my favorite show) and secondly, because their EP is pretty good. They are in the genre of dream pop with such acts as Beach House or Grizzly Bear. The show was decent with the Aleska and her husband only addressing the crowd once. They will have to decide whether they want to take this project into a pop or ambient setting. The amusing thing I found was Aleska, who probably makes a million a year acting, drinking PBR. Now I am all for a cheap ass beer when I need to stretch a buck, but come on. Really? PBR? That is a bit much.

Show Preview - Anti-Flag - 11.26.11 - Mr Smalls - Pittsburgh - Concert Preview

2011-11-22T13:52:00.001-05:00

Anti-Flag will be making a last minute stop this Thanksgiving weekend at Mr Smalls on Saturday, 11.26. It's the first appearance for the hometown heroes in over 7 months. In honor of the holiday, if you bring a non perishable food item (which will be donated to the Pgh Food Bank) you will receive a special gift from the band. Here is Chris talking about the upcoming show:

Also appearing on this special bill are Cancer Bats (Canucks), The Menzingers, The Holy Mess (Philly) and Mace Ballard. As you are probably aware Anti-Flag are politically active on many fronts including the recent Occupy Wall Street movement. This is what they had to say:

It has almost been a month since protesters fed up with corporatism first began occupying Zuccotti Park in the financial district of New York City. While many have extended their support to the people there, just as many have expressed their regret that they could not help in the occupation more directly. October 15th (today) marks a special day, in that thousands (perhaps millions) of people in nearly 1000 cities worldwide are planning similar occupations.On October 15th, Occupy Wall Street will demonstrate in concert over 951 cities in 82 countries and counting as people around the globe protest in an international day of solidarity against the greed and corruption of the 1%.

Tickets to the show are $15 and can be found here through Opus One. There is also a special ticket/poster bundle for $25 that can be found here.

http://www.anti-flag.com/

Show Preview - Grieves and Budo - 11.26.11 - Stage AE - Pittsburgh Concert Preview

2011-11-20T18:23:00.008-05:00

Ryhmesayers artist Grieves and Budo will be making a stop at Stage AE this Saturday. The Seattle based duo creates quick witted lyrics over substantial beats. They are touring behind their new album Together/Apart released this year. From their bio:

Born in Chicago, Illinois, Benjamin Laub, better known as Grieves, was exposed to music at a young age by his father, who would take him to Jazz and Blues clubs. As he moved about the country he began to expand his listening to include the sounds of punk and Hip Hop. In 2003 he ended up in Seattle and completely immersed himself in the art form, honing these varied influences into songwriting. Alone and in a new city, he secluded himself in his apartment where the only furniture was his bed, a TV, and an MPC 2000XL. Finding opportunities to perform in small clubs and venues around town, he began funding and booking his own regional tours. After self-releasing his debut album Irreversible in 2007, Grieves took that momentum out on the road, developing an ever growing fan base from the west to east coast.

Grieves would eventually hook up with a talented producer and multi-instrumentalist by the name of Budo. In 2008 the duo created 15 tracks of sample-free, melody-driven, analog warmth titled 88 Keys & Counting, a combination of singing and rapping tethered together by guitar, horn, and keyboard driven instrumentals. Mainly a digital release, 88 Keys & Counting was welcomed with rave reviews and earned the attention of Minneapolis based label, Rhymesayers Entertainment, who have reissued the album, released The Confessions of Mr. Modest. as well as the duo’s new LP Together/Apart.

The show begins at 8p with doors at 7p. Tickets are only $10 and can be found here.

Local Spotlight - Matt Kiefer - December 2011 - Pittsburgh

2011-11-17T20:33:00.001-05:00

Matt Kiefer is our December local spotlight of the month. We are posting a bit early due to vacations in December. Matt was kind enough to answer our normal barrage of questions. You can also find his music streaming throughout the interview. Also find links to his sites at the bottom.

How did the band come together? Were you all friends that went to school?

Matt Kiefer Music is just me...Matt Kiefer playing, writing, and recording all the instruments. Ive been playing guitar and writing songs for about 10 years now. I picked up the bass and drums a few years back around the time I started getting into recording my own music. I got into punk rock when i was about 14 years old and all that aggression and angst made me want to play music because It was easy to play that stuff and it felt really good to be able to jam along with my favorite records and feel that sound coming out of my amp and to feel like I knew what i was doing. Ive got some childhood friends who are great musicians that I occasionally bring in for recordings when the drums are too technical for me to play, or the piano is real melodic up and down all over the keys, or the bass needs a super groovy feel that i cant lay down, that only a REAL bassist can provide! (laughs) The people who've been with me since day 1 though are usually the ones accompanying me for live shows and tours.

How would you describe your sound to someone who has never heard you?

I would describe my sound as very chill and super melodic. Kinda like a lazy Sunday afternoon feel. Wake up late, lay around the house, just relax and enjoy the moment and all that you have. If i had to compare it to an already existing band, then I would say the songs probably most resemble Red House Painters/Sun Kil Moon, which are some of my biggest influences, without trying too hard to sound like them (laughs)

Are you all originally from the Pittsburgh area? Families here as well?

Yep! Proudly born and raised right in the inner city of Pittsburgh right on the North Side. My family has lived in the same house since I was born. Top of Federal St. in the heart of Fineview. One of the best kept secrets for a great view of the city.

Do you all create music full time or is this more of a part time venture?

Yeah music is my full time gig. I do work part time to pay rent for the studio when I'm not touring on my music or filling in with other bands. I actually live in my studio on the South Side. I like it this way because it forces to me create whenever I feel lazy. (laughs) I look around at everything and think to myself "Sheesh, I should be utilizing all this stuff and really making something out of this!"

Do you have day jobs?

Yeah I do part time Proofreading for a mortgage firm. The atmosphere is super corporate but they're actually pretty cool about all my tattoos and letting me go on tours and being late all the time. (laughs)

How do you create your music? What is the song writing process?

The Songwriting process for me can either be extremely quick or painstakingly slow. It usually starts with me just messing around on the guitar or with a new tuning and coming up with some little melodies. From there I try to really think about what that melody is saying or describing to me, whether it be a memory, a feeling, or a past experience, without really thinking about it too much. I put more focus on the feel of the melody rather than writing it by "the rules" or some chromatic scale or whatever. Then I just noodle around until I have a song 2 hours later and Ive fully captured what it was that initially inspired me. The best songs, for me anyways, are usually the ones where I just pick up the guitar and press record on the board and whatever comes out I keep. Those songs that just come and take 15 minutes to write and record are usually the "hits," or the ones that everyone digs the most.

What are your goals for the band? What would you like to accomplish? Are you trying to get signed to a label?

Labels are nice because they expose music to mass amounts of people whether it be through mass distribution and marketing on a national scale, or through getting you on package touring deals opening up for bigger name bands that have a good draw at shows. Once you've inked the the deal, the label is always there when you need them...for the most part. Just remember...You got to pay all that money back! But being a completely independent artist these days has its advantages too. You don't have a producer in the studio with you shaping your songs and hindering artistic direction and telling you what "people want or don't want to hear," you get to keep all your own money from merch and cd sales and shows(laughs), and you don't have to meet the image guidelines of what some dudes in suits sitting in an office want, thinking they know what the youth or public of today can relate to or will buy. I mean, it would be great to be back on a label but its not really something I think about too much...at all.

My goals are pretty attainable: Just to continue writing and recording music that is honest and means something to me and that will make me super happy when I listen back to it and keep traveling meeting new people and seeing new things all over this country. Ive always booked all my own tours so getting out on the roads never a problem, and I'm always in the studio working on new stuff so when Its time to release some new music Ive usually got a collection to choose from rather than sweating some deadline the labels pressuring me to meet. All I really want is to stay creating my own path, tour when I want, and give my lady some nice things.

What advice would you give to local acts trying to make it?

You've got to work hard. Especially in this city. You've got to always be writing and recording and just working on new music and playing lots of shows, promoting yourself to everyone and bringing the music to the people. Find out who your supporters are and cater to them. Let them into your world. Make youtubes, talk to all your supporters on twitter and facebook, make a mailing list at shows to stay in touch and let them know that you really appreciate their support, and don't stop giving them new music to listen to. Sometimes you got to keep all the parties and all the girls and all that stuff on the back burner and keep focus on what it is youre trying to achieve because all that other stuff can slow you down quick. In this day and age where anyone can record a great sounding album at home affordably and book their own tours, you've got to really have something unique that stands out from everyone else. Dont lose sight of your path, stay in your lane and be sure to commit to what youre trying to accomplish. Dont ever allow anyone elses grief or negativity to affect what you love.

Have you all toured nationally? Or do you usually stay more regionally?

Yeah ive been all over. Pacific Northwest, like Seattle, Oregon...absolutely my favorite places. California and their Medical Laws are pretty dope too! My friends take good care of me when I get out there. The Northeast New England area is probably my second favorite region to get to, especially in the Fall season. Never made it to Wyoming, Montana or Idaho though. Not sure if anythings even going on over there! (laughs)

Being in the Pgh area, do you find it more difficult to try and succeed?

Well, hmmmm... thats a hard question to answer. Pittsburgh is not a super hip town but at the same time its very interesting and is home to a lot of diverse cultures. The night life is usually closed up by 2:30 a.m. around here but the art scene continues deep into the night. Without offending anyone Id have to say the music scene isnt that thriving here but yet theres always a local show to catch. I'm only 24 but Ive been in this 'scene' for 10 years now and to this very day things are still the same as they were in 2001: Lots of cover bands, lots of standardized Metal bands, and lots of Pop/Punk and Pop Rock bands. If you fit into any of those 3 genres then you shouldnt have a hard time gaining some interest from people in this city. People here just want to go out on the weekends, have some drinks, hear some catchy tunes in the background while bullshitting with their friends and watch Sports. Nothing wrong with that at all. I do it 5 nights a week (laughs). Pittsburgh lost a lot of great music venues in the past few years which probably has effected the type of local music thats being created. Shit, Don Caballero said they moved to Chicago because there was no place for them to play around here. But thanks to people like Manny at Garfield Artworks, the crew at Mr Smalls, Josh Bakaitus and the Drusky Ent. team, and the good folks down Club Cafe as well as all the other venues, we're starting to see a resurgence of live music not only from local bands but also from national acts returning often throughout the year. Pittsburgh has also been getting a lot of attention from the Mainstream world as of late with movies, rappers, and sports. I think Pittsburgh is the next big city to blow up. I just hope I'm here and not out on tour when It happens! (laughs)

What are some of the obstacles you face trying to create some 'success' in Pgh?

Sports, drinking, and dance club scenes are more of what the majority of the locals are interested in. But again thats ok. We are entitled to do whatever we please. Also, despite there being more places for local bands to play, theres usually always some sort of ticket sale requirement. $10-12 for a local show? Doesnt make sense. You go to Chicago or New York or Texas, hell even L.A. and the local shows are usually no more than $5-8.

For a band trying to gain exposure in this city, ticket sale requirements are holding them back. I used to hate hitting my friends up with tickets all the time. If a band wants to play out every weekend, your supporters are spending roughly $50-$75 a month just on ticket sales to get into the club to see you play. Rough.

What are the positive benefits of being in the area?

Everyone knows everyone here or knows someone that knows someone and word of mouth spreads very quick. This city is made up of hardworking, blue collar respectable people and those are the kinds of people you can trust and rely on. There is an underground community here comprised of Tri-State area transplants, art-school drop outs, musicians, poets, and street dwelling urchins alike that all just want to have some drinks and good conversation. I recommend checking out this House Venue in Mt. Oliver called 222 Ormsby...You'll see what I mean. Oh...and its also insanely cheap to live in Pittsburgh which makes touring, even in this economy, pretty stable.

Is there a venue you have enjoyed playing more than others in the area?

I wouldnt say theres any place I enjoy playing more than others because they all are extremely fun and its an honor to be able to play for anyone in a room with a PA system. I really like what the Smiling Moose did with the upstairs, building a stage and buying some rad lights. I'm glad Altar Bar exists now because its super dope and the sound system is superb. Mr Smalls was the first of its kind and for them and those kind folks I'm forever indebted and extremely respectful of. I really do enjoy the smaller venues a bit more though. The Garfield Artworks, 222 Ormsby, and South Side VFW shows, etc. are always just so intimate and its not hard at all to instantly connect with your supporters in the crowd.

You can find more information about at these sites:

www.reverbnation.com/MattKieferMuisc
www.twitter.com/RealMattKiefer
www.MattKieferMusic.com

Local Spotlight - The Long Time Darlings - November 2011 - Pittsburgh

2011-11-13T19:46:00.001-05:00

For the month of November we are going to have 2 local spotlights due to vacation in December. Our first spotlight focuses on The Long Time Darlings, a self described straightforward rock n roll band. We asked them our normal aray of questions including how the band came together and how they feel about Pittsburgh. If you read their answers, they are pretty amusing. Be sure to take a listen to their album streaming throughout.

How did the band come together?

We all knew each other from prison. Had an outfit on the inside called “Jailbreak.” We toured all the stoney lonesome’s in the tri-state area on a work release program.

Sike! As awesome as that would be, we actually came together through a mixture of school and mutual friends. We all loved ass-kicking rock and roll and wanted to write and perform that kind of music.

&amp;amp;lt;a href="http://thelongtimedarlings.bandcamp.com/track/downtown-sugar"&amp;amp;gt;Downtown Sugar by The Long Time Darlings&amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;gt;

How would you describe your sound to someone who has never heard you?

A description of our sound to someone who has never heard us would go a little something like this: ZZ Top, The Doors, and half of Black Sabbath all fell into a wood chipper, and shot out the musical goo that is The Long Time Darlings’ sound.

Are you all originally from the Pittsburgh area? Families here as well?

Sproul and Doug were born and raised in the Blawnox/Springdale/Fox Chapel area. Reid hails from Ligonier, and Brett is from San Francisco, Williamsport, Kansas, and Austin, but considers Pittsburgh home indefinitely. Everyone’s family is still around, with the exception of Brett, who’s family lives in Minneapolis, San Antonio, and Maryland. Seeing a trend here? Brett is a no-good transient vagabond.

Do you all create music full time or is this more of a part time venture?

We certainly create music full time, we’re always writing and throwing ideas around, demo-ing songs and re-structuring them and recording. But we don’t make a living off of music, not yet anyways, but we will eventually, otherwise we’ll all commit suicide.

&amp;amp;lt;a href="http://thelongtimedarlings.bandcamp.com/track/downtown-sugar"&amp;amp;gt;Downtown Sugar by The Long Time Darlings&amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;gt;

Do you have day jobs?

Yes. Hence the suicide comment.

How do you create your music? What is the song writing process?

Sproul is the riff man, Brett is the lyric man, Doug and Reid are the structure men. On our new debut full-length record “Honey Tree Evil Eye” , our writing process really took form, Sproul would bring a nasty riff to practice, we’d cause some jammage with it, then Brett would go home to his lyric laboratory and Doug and Reid would drink a case of beer and listen to Dream Theater. Then we’d go back to practice and tuck in all the corners of the tune and high five the rock gods.

What are your goals for the band? What would you like to accomplish? Are you trying to get signed to a label?
Our goal for the band is to play exciting rock shows and release memorable, invigorating rock records . We wouldn’t say we’re actively trying to get signed, only because we’re still working on a fanbase and local radio/press, etc… although working with a label would be awesome because it gives bands a chance to have larger distribution and to tour with more support. We think the recording industry is in such a state that leads one to believe there are no rules anymore, get your music out there any way you can. Even if that means a free CD for every newborn and you charge the healthcare provider.

What advice would you give to local acts trying to make it?

In the words of Winston Churchill, “Never give in.”

&amp;amp;lt;a href="http://thelongtimedarlings.bandcamp.com/track/downtown-sugar"&amp;amp;gt;Downtown Sugar by The Long Time Darlings&amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;gt;

Have you all toured nationally? Or do you usually stay more regionally?

We have toured the northeast as a band although individually we’ve toured all over the world.

Being in the Pgh area, do you find it more difficult to try and succeed?

Not at all, Pittsburgh has every opportunity any other city has for music and art in general.

&amp;amp;lt;a href="http://thelongtimedarlings.bandcamp.com/track/downtown-sugar"&amp;amp;gt;Downtown Sugar by The Long Time Darlings&amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;gt;

What are some of the obstacles you face trying to create some 'success' in Pgh?

We think we face the same obstacles any other under-the-radar band faces around the world; trying to reach a broader audience with your music, break into press/radio, trying to book better shows, write better music and perform it better live. I don’t think Pittsburgh or any other big city has any advantage over the other, it’s all what you make of it. Just like in Fight Club when Tyler Durden says “You decide your own level of involvement.” There’s many successful acts that come out of Pittsburgh, so obviously it can be done.

What are the positive benefits of being in the area?

Pittsburgh has a thriving music and art scene that’s only getting stronger and it’s really exciting to be a part of it right now. There’s a ton of talent in this city and we’re looking forward to see what happens next.

Is there a venue you have enjoyed playing more than others in the area?

Our first gig was at 31st Street Pub and we packed the place so that will always have a feathered cap in our book, but as far as favorites go we’d have to say Lava Lounge.

Interview with Levi's - Braddock Benefit Concerts - 11.10.11- 11.12.11 - Show Preview

2011-11-08T12:48:00.001-05:00

About a month back, out of the blue, Levi's announced they would be holding a 3 night concert series to benefit the town of Braddock. The event features many popular indie acts including Built to Spill, The Hold Steady, Andrew Bird among others. This isn't the first time Levi's has brought attention to the struggling town. They featured several television commercials with its media savvy mayor, John Fetterman, donating 1.5m to his non profit organization. With this benefit show Levi's began a new direction of support by placing the concert series directly in Braddock, attempting to bring people into the town who otherwise wouldn't travel there. The concert series will also be streamed to feature the story for those around the world. We were able to speak with Levi's representative Christian Parkes about the benefit, why Braddock and what they hope to accomplish.

First, how did this event come about? I know levi’s has been helping raise funds for the town of Braddock. Why a concert series?

We wanted to build a program that would work on multiple levels. Obviously, we wanted to raise funds for the town, but we also wanted to bring people to Braddock who may never go there. We also wanted to create a model that could be sustainable for years to come. From a Levi's standpoint, music has always been important to us and with the carnegie library having this incredible music hall, the script really just wrote itself.

Why were these ‘indie’ acts chosen (and not hard rock, jazz, metal, etc)? What was the driving force to pick these groups?

While we're working with bands that we love, we were also deliberate in selecting artists that will fill the library; the more tickets we sell, the more money that goes to Braddock. For this first benefit, we wanted to make sure it would be a success. It's also important to note that these artists are supportive of our efforts and what we're collectively trying to do in Braddock.

How did the collaboration between Levi’s and the city of Braddock come about? Why was this particular town chosen?

Braddock represents a new frontier town in the us today, no one truly knows whether it will shine like the diamond it once was. But that's not going to stop people from trying. In this context, mayor fetterman is very much a pioneer in the work he's undertaking and the change he's influencing. We've carried the principles of pioneering close to our chest since Levi strauss first went west in the 1870's.

Levi’s has already donated over $1.5m to Braddock’s mayor John Fetterman and his non profit organization. Where will this contribution be aimed towards?

Levi's has invested in several community based projects over the past 12 months; the urban farm, nyia page community center, carnegie library, public park. The proceeds from these shows will continue to support programs intentended to better the standard of living for residents in Braddock. The carnegie library will be the single, biggest benefactor of these shows. But we also know we can't do this alone... Before we announced Braddock benefit, we released funds that unlocked a grant from allegheny county to install cctv to help eliminate crime in the town.

Are there plans to hold more concert benefits for the town? Or other events?

We'd love to, and assuming this first venture is a success, who knows what's next.

How long does Levi’s plan to partner with the town of Braddock? Some large strives have been made in reengineering the town. Is there a 5-10 year plan?

In a ideal world, a proud town like Braddock wouldn't need the support of an apparel company, the hope is that it's self sufficient and thriving. What happens next to Braddock is still to be written but i can say that Mayor Fetterman and the residents of Braddock have been great partners from the very first conversation. These are relationships we want to keep building upon.

Braddock was featured in several Levi’s ad campaigns in the past. Will this concert series also be featured to help promote the town?

We'd like to think that every time we talk about Braddock it's helping to promote the town. In addition to the positive pr, we will also be streaming these concerts online, giving us the opportunity to share the story with millions of people all over the world. The hope is that the viewers are compelled to help Braddock, or a 'Braddock' where they live.

The concert series will commence on November 11th and finish on November 13th. Tickets are $25 each and can be found here.

Show Preview - Interview - Rachael Yamagata - Club Cafe - 11.5.11 - Concert Preview

2011-11-05T08:15:00.001-04:00

Rachael Yamagata will be performing this evening at Club Cafe. She is touring behind her new album Chesapeake which was just released this past October. In order to create the LP Yamagata teamed up with PledgeMusic, the leading international direct-to-fan platform for musicians raising funds to record and tour. This was a major departure from her having previously release her albums on major labels. She was kind enough to answer a few questions for us on her way to the burgh about Chesapeake, PledgeMusic and why she dedicated her life to music.

You just released your latest LP Chesapeake. I read that you had a different approach to this album from your past ones. Could you explain? How much did others contribute? Was there a sound you were trying to achieve?

We recorded the record much faster than I ever have before. All basic tracking was done in seven days. We were in a house, basically camping out with each other and tracking as a full band for most every song. The group of musicians were integral in how this record developed in that we were our own guides in every aspect. Song choices, arrangements etc were all based on how much inspiration we could find with one another. I wasn't going for any particular sound, but was strategic in the musicians that were in the room. I knew the combination of what each person could bring to the table in terms of style, ideas and vibe would be a great mix.

To help fund the new album you used Pledgemusic. Why did you choose this method? How did it workout for you? How did you decide what to give to those who pledged?

I knew I needed to raise funds to make the record and tour behind it so started thinking of different options. A few of my peers had suggested Pledge to me from past campaigns they had run. Most of the majority of the musicians on the record also knew of the folks running Pledge and raved about them. At some point the folks running the company also reached out and spoke in a way about me and my music that really felt in line with how I wanted to continue as an artist. The idea of engaging fans in the very process of making the record, showing behind the scenes of how tracking developed etc seemed so great to me. The system is really meant to have direct contact with the fans and have a mutually beneficial situation result. They want me to keep making music and were integral in helping me do so. I chose the incentives based on what I thought might be interesting as if I were a fan hoping to receive from an artist.

You recently released a Covers EP. How did you go about choosing the songs? Why did you decide to cover the ones you did?

Actually, it isn't officially released yet. It was part of the pledge campaign and available only to them if they chose it as an incentive. I'd always loved the 10CC song 'I'm not in love' and Mike Viola and I found this incredible vintage drum loop from an organ and just started messing around with it. It came about pretty organically. 'At 17' by Janis Ian has also been one of my favorites and I've always wanted to do up a version. 'Meeting Across the River' by Bruce Springsteen was something that my friend Helen turned me onto. Really love the laid back nature of how it came out.

This was a more diy route than your past albums. How did this experience compare? How have the results been?

The amount of work can be at times intimidating and yet the results are so much more gratifying. They all feel very tangible from the first intention to fruition and gone are the days of waiting for answers or changed schedules because some level of approval didn't go through. After the frustration of not being able to release a record in three years within the label system, it's empowering to have gotten everything realized for this one in about four months.

How have your fans reacted to the new record? What is the response like?

So far the reactions have been truly great. Each show we play seems to have more people who know the songs..

What made you want to dedicate your life to music? Was there a show or album?

When I saw the first band I joined 'Bumpus' at a show in Chicago and just marveled at their electric energy onstage. All I knew was I wanted to be up there with them even if just to bang on a tambourine.

How do you go about creating your music? Are all your lyrics personally written by you?

I just try and catch the inspiration when it strikes. I do a lot of watching and observing as well. Unless it's a co-write, all lyrics are by me.

What would you like to accomplish with your next project? Are there any goals you have?

My focus now is really to just continue making records, releasing them quickly and tour as much as I can.

Anything you would like to say to Pittsburgh?

I'm super excited to play these songs for Pittsburgh and can't wait to see everyone...

The show begins at 9p with doors at 8p. More information can be found here.

Ticket Giveaway - Fitz and the Tantrums - 11.7.11 - Mr Smalls - Show Preview

2011-11-04T17:48:00.002-04:00

We are a little late getting this, out but better late than never. Fitz and the Tantrums will be appearing at Mr Smalls this Monday, 11/7. I'll be honest, I hadn't heard of this band until recently (shocker), but they are seriously outstanding. We are happy to be giving away a pair of tickets to the show. As usual just email us at pghmusicreport@gmail.com with your name to enter.

Feel free to download their new single "Don't Gotta Work It Out" from the below link.

From their press:

In just a year or so, soulsters Fitz & the Tantrums went from the living room to the main stage. The recipe for meteoric success? Six killer musicians, five dapper suits, irresistible songs, some serendipity and one vintage organ. Fitz, the Svengali frontman of the crew, describes the find like the discovery of a compass, or that treasure map in Goonies, which undoubtedly leads to adventure. Not one to say no, Fitz called some piano movers, cashed in some favors, and seven hours later, the organ went from the curb to his living room. That night, Fitz stationed himself in front of that vintage instrument and wrote a blue-eyed soul anthem, “Breaking the Chains of Love.” The overflow of inspiration startled Fitz. He’d spent years in L.A.’s music industry, writing music and working in a studio with Beck producer, Mickey Petralia. But at those 88 keys, just seven hours after that organ dropped into his life, Fitz had finally found his voice.

Show begins at 8p with tickets $20 and can be found here.

Show Preview - Martin Bisi w/ Velcro Shoes - 11.9.11 - Thunderbird Cafe - Concert Preview

2011-11-03T18:42:00.000-04:00

Martin Bisi will be playing this Wednesday, 11/9 at the Thunderbird Cafe in Lawerenceville with one of our favorite local bands, Velcro Shoes. Bisi has produced a number of acts including Sonic Youth, Dresden Dolls and Boredoms. He will soon be releasing a new LP entitled Ex Nihilo this coming year.

From his bio:

As a performer and record producer in New York City, Martin Bisi has been at a crossroads of indie/punk, avant garde, noire/cabaret rock, and electronic music since the early 80's. He has realized albums by Sonic Youth, Swans, John Zorn, Africa Bambaataa, The Dresden Dolls, Herbie Hancock's Rockit, Boredoms, Helmet, White Zombie, Cop Shoot Cop, Jon Spencer's Boss Hog, Material/Bill Laswell, Foetus, Serena Maneesh and others. In the live performances he combines heavier post-rock psychedelia with upbeat story-telling indie fare, and unique sound layering.

Martin Bisi - Ex Nihilo - Fine Line by Martin Bisi

Bisi is readying a new release for 2012, titled Ex Nihilo - Latin for "out of nothing". A darker tone dominates the new release, compared to '08's Sirens Of The Apocalypse and '09's Son Of A Gun EP -more an exploration of the psyche, with cathartic resolution. "Ex Nihilo" means "from, or out of nothing" -usually used in reference to creation by artists or God. The opening track "Suffer The Moon", is a return to the ritualistic quality of his 1988 album Creole Mass. With this new recording, Bisi's continues his history of sonic excess in the studio, which can be ambient and disorienting - as with the art-noise of Sonic Youth, or the industrial sensibilities of Swans and Foetus.

Also performing will be Velcro Shoes which needs to introduction if you follow the blog. You can find information on them here. Show begins at 9p and is only $5.

Ticket Giveaway - The Features - Brillobox - 11.12.11- Show Preview

2011-11-02T18:52:00.000-04:00

Next Saturday, 11/12 The Features will be appearing at the Brillobox. Hailing from the home of country music, Nashville, TN, the band plays something other than the old time twang. Their brand consists of 60's brit pop infused with psychedelic rock. We are happy to be giving away a pair of tickets to the show. As usual just email us with your name to pghmusicreport@gmail.com

The band is touring behind their new LP Wilderness out on Kings of Leon label Serpents and Snakes. It has been getting rave reviews from places such as Spin Magazine and The Chicagoist. The band also did a video
for each song off the album explaining the tune and what it means to them.

From their press:

Coming into the studio straight away off the road gave The Features a full head of steam, which meshed with their desire to capture some of their on-stage power. The goal, Pelham says, was to make a record that sounded, “like the band was playing live in your living room.”

The result of the month-long sessions is as painstakingly crafted as it is full-on, with Pelham’s distinctive songcraft expertly matched by the band’s sonic inventiveness. “Big Mama” and “Rambo” had already been staples of The Features’ live show, while tracks like the swingin’ psych-pop opener “Content” were spontaneously created during the pre-production rehearsals. Other highlights include the prog-fueled “Golden Comb, with its dynamic tempo changes and multipart arrangement, and the howling rocker, “Kids,” which brandishes the Tennessean band’s native gift for their own version of meaty, big beat boogie.

Doors are at 9:30p and show is scheduled to begin at 10p. Ticket can be found here.

Ticket Giveaway - Musikanto w/ Truth & Salvage Co. - 11.8.11 - Stage AE - Show Preview

2011-10-29T13:14:00.000-04:00

Musikanto will be appearing with Truth and Salvage Co. at Stage AE Tuesday, November 8th. Musikanto is Chicagoan Mike Musikanto, a scholar of indie folk (emphasis on the folk) and a contemporary of names like Tom Schraeder and Cracklin’ Moth. He is touring behind his latest album released this past August on Grape Juice Records entitled Sky of Dresses. We are happy to be giving away tickets to the show. As usual just email us with your name at pghmusicreport@gmail.com.

From his press:

While calling to mind the vast and oftentimes desolate American landscape, the folk tales of Musikanto hold their own within the rich tradition of American music. Over the 11 tracks from his sophomore effort Sky Of Dresses, the songsmith proves again a warm and honest demeanor with a song craft filled with handsome country tones and uncanny lyrical precision.

Doors are at 8p with tickets only $10.

http://www.musikantomusic.com/
https://www.facebook.com/musikantomusic
www.grapejuicerecords.com

Show Preview - Manchester Orchestra w/ White Denim & Dear Hunter - Altar Bar - 11.9.11 - Concert Preview

2011-10-29T09:01:00.001-04:00

PacSun is sponsoring quite a lineup this next week at Altar Bar. On November 9th Manchester Orchestra, White Denim and The Dear Hunter will be performing at the spacious club. Manchester Orchestra has been through Pittsburgh a few times, but not with such an accomplished lineup. From the press:

PacSun elevates their cornerstone music event, PacTour, to a whole new level this fall with a diverse lineup of talent led by headliner Manchester Orchestra. PacTour keeps with tradition, layering an amazing headliner with the best buzz worthy artists in the country including White Denim, The Dear Hunter, and Little Hurricane on select dates. In its third year, PacSun’s music tour will play 26 venues across the U.S. from October 21st – November 22nd, 2011 with in-store appearances at local PacSun stores featuring a select PacTour artist.

Coming off of a recent Lollapalooza appearance and two MTV VMA nominations, Manchester Orchestra will lead PacTour in support of their third critically acclaimed album, Simple Math. Adding additional clout to the tour are psych rockers White Denim, progressive rock band The Dear Hunter and blues/rock duo Little Hurricane.

Tickets are only $16 and can be found here. Doors are at 6p with show beginning at 7p.

Ticket Giveaway - Bobby Long - Club Cafe - 11.4.11 - Show Preview - Pittsburgh

2011-10-24T20:45:00.002-04:00

Bobby Long is coming back through the burgh after appearing here back in March at the Rex. The 24 year old songwriter is touring on his debut lp,A Winter Tale, released on ATO Records. A transplant from London, Bobby currently resides in New York City.We are happy to giveaway a pair of tickets then and now. We are also happy to giveaway 2 exclusive EP's that you will be able to pickup at the merchandise table. As usual, just email us your name to pghmusicreport@gmail.com to enter.

From his bio:

"British singer-songwriter-guitarist Bobby Long's anticipated debut studio album A WINTER TALE', produced by Liam Watson (White Stripes) will be released February 1st, 2011 on ATO Records. Currently residing in New York City, the 24-year old Long has been writing finely-crafted songs since taking up the guitar at age 17; from then on he's been creating memorable songs inhabited by hauntingly poetic lyrics. After relocating to London from the countryside of South West England, he became a fixture at London's open-mic nights while attending London Metropolitan University where he studied Music in Film and wrote his thesis on The Social Impact of American Folk Music. He quickly established himself on the local open mic circuit, finding his voice and beginning to develop songs characterized by catchy melodies paired with elusive, imaginative lyrics.

A WINTER TALE merges band power with acoustic rawness, featuring Nona Hendryx (LaBelle) on backing vocals on "Penance Fire Blues," B. J. Cole (Elton John, Sting) on pedal steel, Icelandic singer Lay Low on several tracks, and other top-drawer musicians. And by way of continued extensive touring, he will be bringing A WINTER TALE and what has been called his "tapestry of tales" to the ever-growing audiences seduced by his compelling voice, musicianship and charm."

The show begins at 9p with doors opening at 8p. Tickets can be found here.

Butch Walker Ticket Winner

2011-10-19T18:20:00.004-04:00

Congratulations to Collien D. winner of the pair of tickets to Butch Walker on Thursday at Stage AE. Thank you to all who enter.

Show Preview - Exitmusic w/ Phantograms - 10.20.11 - Concert Preview

2011-10-18T21:59:00.000-04:00

Exitmusic is opening for Phantograms this Thursday 10.20 at Mr Smalls. Exitmusic is the project of Aleksa Palladino and Devon Church who just released a new EP called From Silence on Secretly Canadian Records. You might also recognize Aleksa from her role in HBO's Boardwalk Empire (which is my favorite show right now). The duo is currently playing CMJ right now before making a short east coast trek.

The Sea from EXITMUSIC on Vimeo.

From their press:

So what is Exitmusic? Bands like Sigur Ros, Radiohead, and Godspeed Your Black Emporer come to mind: dark, emotive, electronic music washed with icy guitars and Aleksa's husky yet angelic vocals. It's music meant to remind you of your vulnerabilities and revel in them. It reminds you of the human condition in all its strengths and weaknesses. Whether you're listening amidst a sunny day or the darkest night it'll make either feel like exactly where you need to be.

Aleksa and Devon met aboard a train in Canada years ago, two wandering souls that cosmically bumped into each other and never parted. Shortly after that train ride Devon moved to Aleksa's hometown New York, and ten days later they moved in together. Check out the EP download below and make sure to check out the mesmerizing beauty of their new video for "The Hours."

The show begins at 8p with tickets only costing $13. You can purchase here.

Matthew Sweet - Interview - Ticket Giveaway - Mr Smalls - 10.21.11 - Show Preview - Concert Preview

2011-10-16T19:54:00.000-04:00

MatthewSweet is a giant in alternative rock, churning out power-pop for over than twodecades. His 1991 album Girlfriendhelped launch the guitar driven pop from the college and alternative scene intopopular music in the 1990s. He is touring to promote his new album, Modern Art, but mainly to celebrate Girlfriend’s 20th anniversary. He’ll beplaying with The Shadowboxers next Friday, October 21 at Mr. Small’s. We are happy to be giving away a pair of tickets. As usual just email us at pghmusicreport@gmail.com with your name.

Matthew Sweet! You’ve got a new album out called Modern Art. This year is the 20thanniversary of your 1991 classic Girlfriend.Congratulations on both. You’ll come to Pittsburgh next week. What will wehear?

Next weekwe'll hear the entire Girlfriendalbum, we'll play a couple songs off ModernArt, and couple other well-known songs like "Sick of myself" and"We’re the Same." But most of our time is taken up recreating Girlfriend. We play it in the order onthe record. It's very exciting in the beginning, cause its “DivineIntervention,” “I've Been Wating,” into “Girlfriend.” It holds up pretty welland people seem to be really enjoying it.

With all the music produced, it’s rare for an album tostand the test of time. 20 years on, to still be getting acclaim that Girlfriend is getting, what do you thinkit is about that album that has made it so timeless?

Ithink that it’s really kind of an intimate record with a lot of emotions in it.I think people really related to that. At the time, people really saw whateverthey wanted to see in it. If they were falling in love, they fell in love toit. If they were breaking up, they broke up to it. And I think that reallystuck with some people, and it's a surprise even for me how much people seem tohave this fondness for remembering it.

Modern Art is your13th album in a 25 year plus career with music. What do you think has changedand what has remained the same for you as a songwriter over this long andprolific career?

Maybewhat's stayed the same is that I tend to write intimate music. It's very much “meand you”-based. If anything has changed it's that I probably touch on moremetaphysical wanderings than I did when I was a kid. I mean, I don't feel thatmuch different. When we decided to start playing the Girlfriend album again, I kind of thought it would feel reallyweird and ancient to me, but instead it feels just sort of normal. I don't feelall that different from 20 years ago. In terms of Modern Art, specifically, it's a rather more abstract approach tomaking a record than we had with Girlfriend,which is a little more straightforward.

I'm in awe of people like you. You’re a musician,you've made a career out of it. You're living the dream. Was there any momentor point at which you realized, "I'm gonna be able to do this! I'm goingto be able to live my life as a musician"?

Well,not really. I think you always have to look forward and recreate the wholething. One is never enough. Maybe as I have gotten older I think...partlybecause I got started before the internet I was really lucky, when there wasstill sort of the original rock history. The internet has changed the waypeople consume music so much. I think it's something like 85% less records sellin general. So it's a really different environment. And it's still challenging.It's challenging for me to make my way along, but if people ask me, 'What doyou say to young musicians?' I say, you have to love doing music. Because a lotother things, even after they go well, they'll break your heart again.

With downloads, diminished record profits, theincreased connection between commercial advertisements and success for youngbands...You came into music at a different time, making good records with aclean, power-pop sound that transcends genre fads. But has your career over thepast 25 years been affected by these broader shifts within the music industry?

Idon't think so, not so much. If anything, I've had much more of a feeling offreedom as time has gone on. Because there's not so much pressure due to howmuch money goes into it. So I feel less pressure on me. Maybe I have a littlebetter time making records and exploring a little bit more.

In what sense is there less pressure?

Whenlabels invested huge amounts of money to make a record, there was a lot ofpressure from them regarding what the music was going to be like. I don't thinkI ever did anything specifically to try to be commercial, but I always feltthat pressure. It was never big enough for them, sort of. Even when I soldrecords well, you still had that feeling like it was never enough.

Do you feel like the music industry has eased up onthe pressure? I'm sure they're pressuring some people?

Yeah,I'm sure they are to some people. I mean, I can't imagine if you were a youngband that got on a major label now, there's just so little room to move around.I was lucky in that alternative radio really bloomed during the time of Girlfriend and Altered Beast. It sort of came out of college radio and becamecommercial and there was room for a lot of different kind of things. It seemslike now things that are commercial are in a much narrower range. I know thatthere is a lot of vital music getting made now, but it's sort of a challenge tohow it's going to get heard.

Have you branched out beyond your own recordings? Whatare some plans for the near future?

Iworked with The Bangles on their new record. I produced a young group called TheBridges a few years ago. The Under theCovers records, volumes 1 and 2 were something I worked on with SusannaHoffs. We are going to do an Under theCovers 80s volume, and hopefullydo some touring for that. And I've already done quite a bit of recording since Modern Art, so I hope to do another recordsooner rather than later.

Final question. Are you ever going to give up rock androll?

*Laughs* Idon't think I am. I mean, it gets challenging sometimes when you have to getthrough those times and not let it get you down. Just love life and love doingmusic and try to get through it however you can. No, I don't think I will stopuntil I have to.

That is the correct answer. We'll see you inPittsburgh in a week.

Soundsgood. See you there!

-DanielHammer

Show Preview - Tycho w/Little Dragon - 10.19.11 - Shadow Lounge - Pittsburgh

2011-10-15T23:45:00.002-04:00

Artist Tycho (aka Scott Hansen) will be appearing at the Shadow Lounge this Wednesday, 10.19 opening for Little Dragon. He is touring in support of his forthcoming album Dive out on 11/15 on Ghostly International. From his press:

While his formative years were spent listening to everything from Yes to Photek, Scott Hansen didn’t get his hands on an actual guitar or drum machine until he left his native Sacramento for San Francisco in 1995. "Encountering this whole new world at 20 years old was a profound experience," says Hansen, better known by his musical pseudonym Tycho and as the graphic artist ISO50. "At the time, I was just learning the processes of design and music; both felt very similar, and have flowed back and forth for me ever since."

Tycho by Tycho

As seamless as his two creative outlets have been, nearly a decade passed before the release of Hansen's first proper Tycho LP, Sunrise Projector (originally released in 2004 on Gammaphone Records, later expanded and reissued under the titlePast Is Prologue on Merck Records, and ultimately reissued again by Ghostly). And while three striking singles have emerged since then, the sum of all those sepia-toned parts is nowhere near the double-exposed soundscapes of his new, forthcoming album Dive, set for release November 15th, 2011 (US) and November 14th, 2011 (UK/EU) on Ghostly International.Pitchfork premiered the first single, the sweeping & Baleric leaning "Hours," via the Forkcast. The product of a prolonged break from IS050’s design work and blog, Dive pays tribute to Tycho’s prismatic past (the dense, guitar-guided turning points of "Daydream" and "Adrift") but spends most of its time pointing to the project’s not-so-distant future.

Tickets to the show can be found here.

Show Preview - Interview - Masters of Hemisphere - 10.19.11 - Hambones - Concert Preview

2011-10-14T19:43:00.001-04:00

The Masters of Hemisphere will be making a stop this Wednesday, 10.19 at Hambone's. The Athens based band had not been heard of in over 10 years. They recently released a new album entitled These Are The Breaks and are making a trip to Pgh on the way back from CMJ. The band was a part of the indie pop scene back in the mid 90's releasing their albums on Kindercore Records (Of Montreal, Dressy Bessy). The band recorded 3 LP's and a handful of EP's before calling it quits in 2002. They were kind enough to answer a few questions for us about why they produced a new album and what their future plans are.

Why the new album now? You stopped playing right around 2002? What have you been doing in the meantime?

Good question. We don't really have an answer other than our drummer Jeff Griggs called each of us and asked if we would do another album. At the time he was the only one still living in Athens and said that the love for the Masters had not diminished and people would be excited to hear something new. After we broke up I moved to San Francisco and Bren Mead (the other main songwriter) eventually moved there as well but has recently moved back to Athens. I started a joke reggae band over there called Still Flyin which over the years has evolved into a total non-joke dance pop band. Jeff and I have always been messing around with our best pals in an eclectic band/collective called Je Suis France. Adrian (the George Harrison/3rd songwriter of the group) leads a hot soul band called Night Moves Gold. And Bren dabbles in his solo project Vetran whenever he has the time/desire.

Half a Fool by Masters of the Hemisphere

Are the original core of the band still in place?

Yes sir. Except Adrian has two kids and can't make the whole tour, so we're bringing an extra pal along named Ken to fill in for Adrian and be a special fifth member when Adrian is around.

In the Volcano by Masters of the Hemisphere

Are you touring between vacation time from jobs? Or is this a more serious venture at this time?

We're touring between jobs and our other bands' tours. Trying to keep it the opposite of serious.

You just recently released a new album Maybe These Are the Breaks. Was this material you had left over from 2002? Or is the material new?

Some of the songs would have been on the next Masters album, had there been one in 2003 or 2004, but a lot of the songs are brand new.

Was there any theme to the new album?

It's a break-up album. It could be about the band breaking up back in 2002.

What made you want to dedicate your life to music? Was there a show or album?

It might be in my genes. My dad played in bands and my grandfather toured as the bandleader of big bands. As a kid my dad would play guitar for me a lot, so that would be the show - the private shows from my dad.

Belushi by Masters of the Hemisphere

How do you go about creating your music?

Either Bren or Adrian or myself will write the song and then the rest of us will contribute to the arrangement if we have some good ideas.

What would you like to accomplish with this project? Are there any goals you have?

Just what any self-respecting band wants: a good laugh.

Anything you would like to say to Pittsburgh?

Prepare to get your bone hammed.

Ticket Giveaway - Butch Walker & the Black Widows - Stage AE - 10.20.11 - Show Preview

2011-10-13T07:57:00.002-04:00

Butch Walker & the Black Widows will be appearing at Stage AE next Thursday. We are happy to be giving away a pair of tickets to the show. All you need to do is send us an email with your name to pghmusicreport@gmail.com .

The band is touring behind their latest album, The Spade, release this past August. From his own written personal bio:

I’ve been doing these things for so long now, that I feel like just when I have written the mother of all things informative and maybe funny, I go and record a new record. Why does shit always have to evolve and the information change every time another year goes by? Why, since the last bio (which I felt was an understated masterpiece) did I have to go and do shit to deem it necessary for an update?

So this is the part of the bio where I’m supposed to describe the new record by us called The Spade. I’m supposed to inject words about the songs like “soaring”, “pounding”, “climactic”, and maybe even a “unrivaled”…… But I just can’t talk like that about my own music. But what I can say is, just like my bass paying skills….. It’s fucking awesome. we will be on the road this year a lot, and probably sleeping at many KOA campgrounds this fall. More than likely, you are reading this because you don’t know shit about me and you are about to interview me for your school paper or local radio station visit (yes, I’m in the lobby) and you need to find out a few things about me to talk about. It’s ok. I’m not mad. I’m not very popular and I don’t blame you if you “just aren’t into the music”.

Ticket Giveaway - The Jayhawks - Mr Smalls - 10.16.11 - Show Preview - Pittsburgh

2011-10-11T21:58:00.001-04:00

The Jayhawks will be performing this Sunday, 10.16. We are happy to be offering a pair of tickets to the show. As usual, just email us with your name to pghmusicreport@gmail.com.

The Jayhawks were born out of the mid 80's in the Twin Cities of Minnesota. From their press:

The Jayhawks are an American band, and not just because they covered Grand Funk Railroad's "Bad Time" on their '95 album. Tomorrow the Green Grass. Fifteen years ago, the Minneapolis band practically invented the Americana/alt-country movement with their patented brand ofrootsy pop-rock. But even then, the Jayhawks' music was just as informed by singer/songwriter Gary Louris' love of British Invasion bands.

The band's prominence on the contemporary rock scene is attested to by Rolling Stone's inclusion of their classic '92 effort, HoIIy\vood Town Hall, among its 34 greatest rock & roll albums of the '90s. The Village Voice called them "the only country-rock band that matters" while influential No Depression named it among the 101 Greatest "Alternative Country" records of all-time There are at least a dozen Internet sites created by Jayhawks fans themselves to document the group's history.

The group's long-awaited sixth album. Smile, their first since '97's moody Sound of Lies and their first distributed by Columbia Records, was produced by the legendary Bob Ezrin. The album simultaneously returns to the band's roots in folk and country ("What Led Me To This Town," "A Break In The Clouds" and "Better Days") and moves forward into a bold, new territory of atmospheric rhythms and psychedelic grunge ("Somewhere In Ohio"), surreal distortion ("Wildest Dreams"). For the first single, "I'm Gonna Make You Love Me," the Jayhawks have created a radio-ready anthem, with chiming guitars and soaring harmonies that recall the pop epiphanies of inspired heartland-rock.

Tickets for the show can be found here. Doors are at 7p with show at 8p and Rayland Baxter opening.

Interview - Show Review - Mr Gnome - Brillobox - 10.8.11 - Concert Review - Pittsburgh

2011-10-11T20:42:00.000-04:00

Mr Gnome played this past Saturday at the Brillobox putting on their normal stellar show. I think if this duo was based out of NYC, they would get more attention. My only complaint was a couple of people talking loudly during their softer moments. I did yell at them, but it had no real effect. We weren't able to get an interview up before they played, but are able to post it now. Enjoy the videos from the show and interview below.

You usually perform as a duo, but on recent video I noticed there was another musician for your live show. Are you incorporating other musicians in your live setting to flesh out the sound?

We bring Sam's little brother, Jonah, on stage with us sometimes for our home shows. He's an excellent guitar player and we love bringing him up whenever we can. I think the video you saw was at a show where we were playing some songs from Heave Yer Skeleton that we always wanted to play live but needed some additional instrumentation in order to make that happen. He also plays some guitar and bass on the very last track of our new record.

How is your new album Madness in Miniature different from your previous? Was there something you were striving for? You used the same producer and studio so I assume it's something you wanted to maintain.

It's hard to say exactly how it's different, especially after spending so much time on the record...it's a little difficult to analyze it in that way. What we hope for it to be is an extension of where we left off with Heave...hopefully a progression of our sound. We're always trying to evolve as songwriters and allow songs to develop naturally and go wherever feels best. We love records that really flow and take the listener on a sonic adventure so that's definitely what we were going for. We actually did this one a little differently - we tracked the drums and most of the guitars at Pink Duck in L.A. and recorded the vocals, some piano, and a few more guitars at our place in Cleveland. That was a really awesome experience - doing all of the vocals in the same exact room where we wrote all of the songs so I think it helped the vocals to have a little more ease in 'em. We also did the interludes and both of the softer songs on the records ("Winter" & "Watch the City Sail Away") at our place…this gave us a lot more time to experiment and really tweak everything until we were totally happy with it.

You are still self releasing these albums through El Marko Records. Have you thought about signing to a label to help you promote? Gain larger exposure? etc?

Yes, we've talked with labels but none of the offers ever seem right. They always want to change something about us and we're just really not about that. We'd rather always be weird, always do our own thing because that's why we make music and art…because we love to create and signing to a label that wants to mess with that just doesn't seem as important. Plus they wanted a night alone with Sam...he was scared, but willing. I just didn't want the little guy to have to go through with that.

This is your third proper lp over the past years. With doing this more on the DIY style, have you seen your fanbase grow? Are you seeing the results you hoped for?

Yes, for sure. Every tour has been better than the last. We were hoping to be opening for The Jonas Brothers at this point but we haven't gotten that call yet.

There is always underlying comments, jokes on your blog, swag, etc. concerning pornography. Is this more of tounge and cheek type deal? Or are you trying to record for the porn industry one day?

We'd be liars to say that porn isn't awesome. But really, I thought we talked about time travel way more than porn? Time travel and porn…now that's awesome. That's actually a great idea for a porn. Do you think that's been done already?

I have only listened to the album once, so I might be way off. But is there a quieter sound than in the past albums?

I don't think it's quieter as a whole but I think that the quiet moments are probably the most quiet we've ever gotten. That's a lot of quiets in one sentence. There's still lots of fuzz, lots of distortion, lots of blood, sweat and tears...

Anything you would like to say to Pittsburgh?

We love you Pittsburgh. Let's put our sports rivalries aside and hug it out.

Show Preview - Tyler Ramsey - Club Cafe - 10.13.11 - Pittsburgh - Concert Review

2011-10-10T16:28:00.002-04:00

Band of Horses guitarist Tyler Ramsey will be making a stop at Club Cafe this Thursday. He is touring behind is third studio album The Valley Wind which was recently released this past September via Fat Possum Records. I have had this on repeat in my cd player this past few weeks and it is solid.

From his press:

After steadily writing while both on and off the road over the course of last year, Tyler Ramsey headed to
Nashville, TN, to record his third album The Valley Wind at Alex The Great studio in early January. Friend and bandmate Bill Reynolds (who’s worked with The Avett Brothers and Lissie) produced and aided on bass, while friend Seth Kauffman (Floating Action) sat in on drums and guitar, also singing background vocals. Over a rare snowy set of six days in the southern city, Ramsey crafted nine, finely spun songs, keeping the focus on performance as they were played, and letting fresh ideas reveal themselves as they would. The sessions were intense; the three musicians separated and insulated from most normal daily goings-on during the recording period. The result: a crystalline yet warm album, filled with Ramsey’s rich, plaintive vocals and expressive, intricate guitar playing.

The Nightbird by tylerramsey

Ramsey is perhaps most immediately recognizable as the tall, lean guitarist in Band Of Horses, having played with them since 2007, starting before the release of their breakthrough album, Cease To Begin. A well-established and praised guitar player and singer in the burgeoning music scene of Asheville, NC where he calls home, he first learned to play music on piano before moving to the guitar. Ramsey grew up listening to and studying country-blues guitar players like Mance Lipscomb and Mississippi John Hurt, and American finger pickers like John Fahey and Leo Kottke, absorbing their sound and making it all his own.

The Valley Wind by tylerramsey

The show begins at 8p with doors at 7p. Tickets can be found here for only $10. We should have a review of the show. Come say hi.

http://www.facebook.com/tylerramseymusic

Spotlight Local Artist - SleepyV - October 2011 - Pittsburgh

2011-10-08T00:25:00.002-04:00

SleepyV is our local spotlight for the month of October. They are a young band all still in school, playing their brand of indie pop. The band was kind enough to answer our normal questions about how they came together, the goals of the band and a great piece of advice for local bands trying to make it in the area. There are songs embed throughout the article, along with links for the band at the bottom.

How did the band come together? Were you all friends that went to school? or?

Gene (acoustic guitar, vocals) and Derek (drums) went to high school and played together in a band called Vinyl 6, as well as doing a bunch of other music. John (trumpet) went to the same high school, but played in a ska band. They started playing together in June 2009.

Ben (bass, vocals) went to a different high school on the other side of the city and did his own music, and even had a stint as a solo act signed to an indie label. He and Derek worked together as student employees at the University of Pittsburgh's audio-video services department, played together in a glam/folk thing called The Cockatoos, and then Derek asked him to play with SleepyV in the fall of 2009.
Dominique (flute) went to high school in California, came to the University of Pittsburgh for its nursing program, went to some shows in Ben's basement - dubbed The Aviary, now one of Oakland's numerous defunct house venues - and we met her there. She started playing flute in the spring of 2011.

How would you describe your sound to someone who has never heard you?

It's sort of in between the super serious indie bands like Sufjan Stevens, St. Vincent, Dirty Projectors and the more fun indie bands like Tally Hall, Fleet Foxes, and the Decemberists. We like ornate harmonies and complicated song structures, but we can't seem to veer ourselves away from infectious reggae rhythms and nice melodies. A lot of people seem to tell us there is a jazz element to our music, and we think a lot of that comes from just playing and grooving together so often. We're pretty comfortable with improvisation, despite how planned out and intricate all of our recordings and performances are.

Are you all originally from the Pittsburgh area? Families here as well?

All of the dudes have family in Pittsburgh, but Dominique is from California. We call our parents regularly and visit as often as possible. Yeah, we're sorry we haven't been home in three weeks, but look, if you're gonna make meatloaf every damn time you have to understand WE GET SICK OF IT.

Do you all create music full time or is this more of a part time venture?'

If by full time, you mean more than forty hours a week, I think it's definitely a full time venture. We feel bad for all of our friends who aren't musicians because when it comes time to hang out and relax, we usually just sit at home and play or write. It's kind of sad, to be honest. We only get to go out on nights we have gigs!

Do you have day jobs?

We all do. Full-time class schedules too.

How do you create your music? What is the song writing process?

Our songs generally avoid verse/chorus structure, so instead of having vocabulary like: chorus, pre-chorus, bridge, etc., we just refer to them as "parts." Any member of the band could write a part or come up
with an idea for a part. Then, it's up to everyone else in the group to play the part together and write lines and rhythms and lyrics to go with the part. After that, we're left with a group of small parts of songs, which we then have to string together by coming up with transitions from one part to the next. This is tricky because if one part doesn't feel natural following the other, adjusting it to find atransition that will work can sometimes be difficult. For our "Storybook EP" we went through this process for about 26 minutes worth of music, and then Ben wrote arrangements for flute, trumpet, violin, and clarinet.

What are your goals for the band? What would you like to accomplish? Are you trying to get signed to a label?

If we were able to make music for a living, we'd all be living beyond our wildest dreams. Most people in this world have to put a smiling face on every morning to go to a job they don't care about so that they can make enough money to buy things that won't make them happy. We're already lucky in that we have everything we need to keep us alive and the key to our happiness is right at our fingertips. If we are able to make a living from the music and travel around and play, we'd all probably be the happiest people in the entire world.

What advice would you give to local acts trying to make it?

Don't promote all of your shows! If you want venues and promoters to keep calling you back, you've got to have a draw at every show you do for them, and that means if your friends came out to see you the night before, they probably won't come out the next night. Also, just be friendly and cool. We've had some weird experiences trying to talk to other bands who just see us as strangers walking up and saying "hi." If we're playing a show together, we have something in common and we can have a beer together, so stop being awkward! Also, stick around and see all the bands who play at your shows. If you only care about your own music and aren't interested enough to check out the other bands you're playing with, other bands probably won't be interested in you unless you fit their style and draw tons of people (not usuallythe case).

Have you all toured nationally? Or do you usually stay more regionally?

We've taken one trip to play at an arts center in Mansfield, OH with a shoe-gaze band called the La De Les from Boston. We packed four people and all of our equipment into Derek's corolla and broke even on cash after paying for gas and food. It was super fun and we look forward to doing more weekend trips and possibly a tour when we're all available for one.

Being in the Pgh area, do you find it more difficult to try and succeed?

Some bands we know who take more trips out and tour tend to say that there are lots more people outside of Pittsburgh, but so far, other than Mansfield, OH, this city is basically all we know. It's been hard, but I think we're finally starting to see some rewards from doing gigs for local markets and networking with out-of-town bands who come through.

What are some of the obstacles you face trying to create some 'success' in Pgh?

There are practically no small venues with built-in local crowds (as in, pretty much no venue to start your band at). Playing shows to drunk college kids in basements is pretty much the best substitute for that, though. You just have to have the resources and initiative to hook that kind of thing up.

What are the positive benefits of being in the area?

There's not a lot of competition. I have to wonder if SleepyV would even be a speck of a band in a neighborhood like Brooklyn, but in Pittsburgh, any band who looks cool and sounds good seems to have a shot. I think the city has also taught is to take a lot of matters into our own hands. Since there is such a lack of musical community around, we've done a lot of our own work. Ben's basement (The Aviary) was our main place to play until Manny Theiner started booking us around town more (which he did because we were able to bring kids from our basement out to Garfield Artworks). Also, Derek and our friend Bryan Heller have started this thing called "Take Away Tuesdays" at http://takeawaytuesdays.wordpress.com which is basically just small-time Pittsburgh version of La Blogotheque. We're on it, and so are all our friends' bands.

Is there a venue you have enjoyed playing more than others in the area?

We certainly enjoy playing for bigger crowds who don't know us. We recently opened up for Tally Hall at Mr. Smalls, and the crowd was fully attentive and extremely enthusiastic. Our second show ever, we got to open up for Jack's Mannequin in the middle of Bigelow Boulevard, right next to the Cathedral of Learning, and that was alsoa surreal experience. Other than that, The Aviary was probably the most consistent fun every time we played it (mainly because it was one of our basements filled with all of our friends who were all drunk).

www.sleepyv.bandcamp.com
www.reverbnation.com/sleepyv
www.myspace.com/sleepyv
www.twitter.com/sleepyvmusic
www.soundcloud.com/sleepyv
www.takeawaytuesdays.wordpress.com

Ticket Giveaway - Show Preview - Mr Gnome - Brillobox - 10.8.11 - Concert Preview

2011-10-04T12:52:00.001-04:00

If you follow the blog over the last couple of years, you know we are big fans of Mr Gnome out of Cleveland. We have featured them in the past here, here and here. Thankfully they are making their way back to the Brillobox this Saturday, 10.8. We are giving away a pair of tickets to the show. All you need to do is email us at pghmusicreport@gmail.com with your name to enter.

Mr Gnome is touring behind their upcoming release, Madness in Minature. As with their previous release Heave Yer Skeleton, the album was produced again in Josh Homme's (QOSTA, Eagles of Death Metal) Pink Duck Studio in LA. The album is described as .."an all-encompassing gaze into two delicate yet roaring, and hypnotic minds that are simultaneously disconcerting... in a beautiful way". I have only been able to listen to the new album once and can say it's pretty phenomenal on first listen.

I will hopefully get an interview with the duo soon for future posting this week, but from our last one:

Josh Homme helped create your last record. What was that experience like? Was there areas where he was suggesting that you didn’t feel fit the concept of your album?

We actually got invited to Josh's studio by his studio manager, Justin Smith. Justin was wonderful. We were on the same page for the whole project and he really helped us capture the sounds that we were going for and introduced us to a lot of vintage gear that we never knew existed. We also shared a love for time travel, Battlestar Galactica, The Frogs, The Techno Viking, and Garth Marenghi's Darkplace. We love you Sanchez.

Ate the Sun by mrgnome

The show begins at 10p with doors opening at 9:30p. There are 3 openers scheduled including Sun Ray, Shining Light and Atlas. Tickets are only $7 and can be found here.

Ticket Giveaway - Show Preview - Milk Carton Kids - 10.6.11 - Club Cafe - Pittsburgh - Concert Preview

2011-10-01T08:55:00.000-04:00

The Milk Carton Kids will be appearing at Club Cafe Thursday, 10.6. We are happy to be providing a pair of tickets to the show. To enter just simply email your name to pghmusicreport@gmail.com

The duo is comprised of Kenneth Pattengale and Joey Ryan who have released over 10 albums between them as solo artists. The new venture has only released one live album entitled Retrospect which is available for free on their official website. The album has over 13,000 downloads since being posted. Their first proper studio album entitled Prologue is in the process of being released this year. They play minimal instruments with strong harmonies and dual vocals.

From their press:

A performance by The Milk Carton Kids is a quiet and intricate affair. Kenneth Pattengale & Joey Ryan have enjoyed intently listening audiences across the country and abroad in their respective solo careers, but an even greater sense of urgency and demand of attention is palpable now that they’ve come together as The Milk Carton Kids. Their songs are written together, but you won’t know there is more than one author. Their history together spans only one short year, but you won’t know that either. They stand close together when they play, facing each other and using microphones instead of plugging their guitars in. And if they looked more alike, they’d fool you that they were brothers.

The doors open at 7p and show begins at 8p. You can find more information about the Milk Carton Kids at their webistehttp://themilkcartonkids.com/. You can purchase the tickets here. Remember we have a ticket giveaway. To enter just email us at pghmusicreport@gmail.com.

Show Preview - Vandaveer - 10.1.11 - Brillobox - Pittsburgh - Concert Preview

2011-09-27T21:59:00.000-04:00

Vandaveer are performing this Saturday, 10/1 at the Brillobox. We featured this duo back in May of this year when they played at the same venue. Let me say, do yourself a favor and see this duo life. You will not be disappointed. The band is touring behind their third album entitled Dig Down Deep which was released this past April. Mark Charles Heidinger is the musician behind the band who currently resides in the Washington, DC area.

From his bio:

Vandaveer offers up melodic Americana with a revolving cast of characters, most prominent among them Rose Guerin, singing the loveliest harmonies heard this side of Eden. Heidinger and Guerin met during the heyday of DC’s folk collective known as The Federal Reserve. Informal collaborations in that environment soon galvanized, with Guerin’s voice becoming a reliable fixture in Vandaveer, both on record and on stage.

We recorded the last time they were here:

From their press:

Vandaveer’s third full length, Dig Down Deep, offers a collage of churning rhythms, steady guitar and ringing piano beneath tales of war and impermanence, loss and love. The music serves as both mirror and platform for Vandaveer’s stories—booming bass drum during moments of turmoil and conquest, throaty cello in moments of peace and predation, trembling keys in moments of uncertainty and hope. Out of the mosaic rise two voices in perfect harmony narrating and navigating the lives of Vandaveer’s characters with confidence and grace.

If you enjoy the music they are 10x better live. Tickets are only $7 and can be found here.

Show Preview - Velcro Shoes w/ Aloud & Steve Hawk - The Cafe Down Under - 9.30.11 - Irwin - Concert Preview

2011-09-25T11:08:00.000-04:00

This month's local spotlight, The Velcro Shoes, will perform this Friday, 9.30 at The Cafe Down Under at Cafe Supreme in Irwin, PA. Also playing is Aloud out of Boston which we have featured in the past. The event will also feature sponsorship by Clique Vodka including the Clique Vodka Girls.

Velcro Shoes are one of our favorite local acts that we featured this month here. Velcro Shoes is made up brothers EJ and Eric Emerson, Mike Slobodian and Bill Krowinski on guitar. From our interview:

I asked Eric how he felt about this venture differed from others. “I would have to say that for me it is the most enjoyable. Most of the bands that I have been a part of in the past, there was always a split responsibility going on. For years I had to always share the lead vocal responsibilities with other musicians, which I didn’t mind, but I always had a yearning to be heard and grow as a lead vocalist/song writer.”

Aloud are made up of Jen de la Osa and Henry Beguiristain, having performed together since their early teens. Hailing from Boston the band plays catchy rock songs utilizing two vocalists. They are touring behind their new lp Exile. From our interview:

You just completed your third album Exile. From what I have heard it’s a very atmospheric album. How is this a departure from your previous albums? Was there a certain sound you were attempting to achieve?

Jen: Our previous record, Fan the Fury, was a more guitar driven punk-rock record written in the midst of an election year. That record was very brash and big. This one's a little more subdued, though I wouldn't count the sound being any less big--just different. It's a more introspective record though not necessarily into our own heads, but whatever characters we created. It was more of a narrative than the last record and we wanted to create the places in the songs, so that you'd step into the room where the story was happening.

The album lyrics are very dark speaking of heartbreaks, loneliness, etc. Was there an overall storyline behind the lp? Was this a difficult time when writing the material?

Jen: I wouldn't say there was an overall story, but we did want an overall mood. The initial songs had this mood, this loneliness and we went with it since we it was interesting and we hadn't done it before. The Exile thing comes from our parents who are Cuban exiles and this book by another Cuban exile called Before Night Falls by Reinaldo Arenas. We took that idea of Exile to explore some of those lonely type themes. We happened to be going through losing our rhythm section of 6 years at the time as well and though it was what needed to happen it was a little isolating.

The show begins at 9p and is only $5. You can find more information here.

Ticket Giveaway - Show Preview - Zee Avi - Club Cafe - 9.28.11 - Pittsburgh - Concert Preview

2011-09-22T21:37:00.000-04:00

Zee Avi will be making a stop at Club Care this Wedensday, 9.28. We are happy to giveaway a pair of tickets to the show. As usual just email us with your name to pghmusicreport@gmail.com

From her press:

25-year-old Malaysian singer songwriter Zee Avi announces fall tour dates in support of her sophomore album ghostbird out through Brushfire and Monotone Records on August 23.The select tour dates kick off at Maxwell’s in Hoboken, NJ and continue through October 15^thconcluding at Los Angeles’ El Rey Theatre.

With a voice beyond her years, ukulele wielding Avi will be joined by a three-piece band during her 15-date tour. For the first time Avi will bring out the soothingly beautiful Malaysian Sape, a unique string instrument indigenous to her hometown of Borneo. Avi is itching to get back on tour and show off her live skills and perform her new songs.

Ghostbird (the literal translation for owl in Avi’s native language) was born in her Brooklyn kitchen last summer; however it was a trip to the Florida Everglades where Avi found endless inspiration and wrote the album’s first single, “The Book of Morris Johnson,” an upbeat song inspired by the Floridian folk artist.

In the last two years since Avi’s critically acclaimed self-titled debut, Zee Avi (a 2009 Associated Press Top 10 album) her very free spirit has wandered from major music festivals (Outside Lands, Bonnaroo) and concert venues across the country to her homeland of Sarawak, Borneo, where she recently picked up an International Youth Icon Award.

The show begins at 8p with doors opening at 7p. Tickets are $13 and can be found here.

Local Artist Spotlight - Velcro Shoes - September 2011 - Pittsburgh

2011-09-21T14:55:00.000-04:00

A little different format for our local artist spotlight this month featuring Velcro Shoes. You can find more information about the band at the end of the article. They provided some music scene comparisons with their home of Baltimore and Pittsburgh which is pretty interesting.

A fewmonths back I went to see another national “buzz worthy” band (who I don’trecall) and luckily caught the opening act at Brillobox. Usually I try and skipout on these because they are simply not good. Velcro Shoes was the local actthis evening and simply blew me away like no other local since Wise Blood. A four piece that jumped onto the scene out of nowhere, the band played anelectric set that I still recall vividly compared to the “buzz” act. The banddescribes their influence as The Horrors, The Strokes, Foals, Arctic Monkeys,The Beatles, Interpol, Autolux and Nirvana. Honestly, they aren’t too far off.

VelcroShoes is made up brothers EJ and Eric Emerson, Mike Slobodian and Bill Krowinski on guitar.They formed in February 2010 after Eric relocated from Baltimore following a girl, and EJ eventuallyfollowed him. The two brothers have been playing with each other since gradeschool. I asked Eric how he felt about this venture differed from others. “Iwould have to say that for me it is the most enjoyable. Most of the bands thatI have been a part of in the past, there was always a split responsibilitygoing on. For years I had to always share the lead vocal responsibilities withother musicians, which I didn’t mind, but I always had a yearning to be heardand grow as a lead vocalist/song writer.” In past bands the brothers had touredwith the likes of Guided by Voices, Jet and American Minor. I asked them howclose they came from hitting a major record deal. “Pretty close. While up in NYC we had a sit down with Maroon 5’s entertainment lawyer. I think it was allabout timing. We had raw youthful energy but we just weren’t on that level yet.We we’re really close, hell it was amazing even getting a sit down with such aperson, however it just wasn’t our time. Then things fell apart not too longafter through rocky tours, geographical separations, drunkenness, you know allthe things that happen when one is young and full of sh*t. So, it just didn’thappen at that point in time.”

Currentlythe band members all work full time jobs, but consider this a very serious venture.I ask what they plan. “This is a serious project for us all; it’s just that welike to think we are a mature band right now, not a young one. It all comesdown to the product, the actual sound recordings, the songs… if they aren’tgreat then you have nothing. So we areallowing ourselves time to develop and write better and better songs withoutall the go, go, go pressure and play here, play there, type deal that justdoesn’t make sense.” I ask when they plan to produce an album. “Well… we have a5 song EP recorded and in the hands of Rick Bowman of The Frauds as we speak. Heis mastering and I just got an email about an hour ago that he worked on it allweekend and is getting close. After he’s done we’ll have a 5 song EP however wehave roughly 5 other new songs that are even better that will be gettingrecorded very soon one way or another. The EP is titled Hook and Loop. We’re contemplating an LP… write now we are justtrying to keep writing and recording as much material as possible.”

Ericshoots from the hip and doesn’t hold much back. I ask him to compare the sceneof Pittsburgh to that of Baltimore where he was raised. “PersonallyI like the Baltimore scene better. There’s way morerespect and interest in original music down there. Here, it’s all abouttributes and cover bands. The masses here just really don’t care unless you canfill the Energy Console Center or if you are a national comingthrough Stage AE. For an unknown it’s tough to get on a decent bill in Pittsburgh, especially when the nationalsusually bring their own openers. But…who knows… maybe one day what we’re doing will catch on here. Don’t mean to be so pessimistic, I’m just notreal impressed with the respect for original music here… that’s all.” With suchan experienced act I wanted to know how their songwriting process worked. Ericprovided the details. “Usually I, Mike or Bill bring an idea and the othersdecide to tweak or not tweak. Recently though we wrote a new song from scratchtogether; it’s called “Axiom” tentatively. We think it has a lot of potential.My brother, EJ likes for us to bring structures to him. He then adds the drumsthat he thinks will work. Sometimes we have a suggested beat which he choosesto follow or not follow. We give him complete freedom.”

Withtalent, maturity and the right mindset, Velcro Shoes has the making ofsomething unique in Pittsburgh. They are a band to definitelyfollow and checkout.

http://www.reverbnation.com/thevelcroshoes#!

http://www.myspace.com/thevelcro-shoes

http://www.wix.com/thevelcroshoes/officialwebsite

Show Preview - Atari Teenage Riot - 9.24.11 - Rex Theater - Concert Preview

2011-09-20T21:46:00.000-04:00

The Atari Teenage Riot will be making a stop in Pittsburgh this Saturday, 9.24. They are touring behind their latest release, Is This Hperreal? From their press:

Atari Teenage Riot is pleased to release their latest video “Blood In My Eyes.” The song and it’s provocative video offer a stark look at the issue of human trafficking.

The band’s latest single is drawn from the band’s new album Is This Hyperreal? out now via Dim Mak. Produced, mixed, recorded by Alec Empire, Nic Endo and new ATR member CX Kidtronik (Saul Williams / Nine Inch Nails), Is This Hyperreal? was recorded at the Hellish Vortex Studio in Berlin. In addition to the band’s “Blood In My Eyes” video, Atari Teenage Riot is also asking their fans to participate in the video for the band’s upcoming single "Black Flags", which will be released on September 6th. You can hear “Black Flags”.

Atari Teenage Riot - Black Flags (feat. Boots Riley) by Alec Empire/ ATR Fans are also invited to incorporate “Corpsing” into their video. Drawn from an idea the band had while “planking” at a Southern European airport, “Corpsing” is the act of laying down in a public location, covered in a black flag to represent those that have died as result of corporate greed. The band invites anyone to film themselves lip-synching to the “Black Flags” lyrics in front of a black flag or corpsing and send in their video to be included in the “Black Flags” video. All entries should be submitted toblackflags@atari-teenage-riot.net.

They are calling their fans and others who support song’s ideals to make a video statement in front of a black flag, or any black surface to be included in the band’s final video. “Black Flags.”

The show begins at 8p with doors opening at 7p. You can find tickets here.

Ticket Winner - Felice Brothers w/ The Dodos

2011-09-20T21:07:00.003-04:00

The winner for the Felice Brothers ticket giveaway is Ben S. Thank you to all who entered.

Interview - Ticket Giveaway - Felice Brothers w/ The Dodos - 9.21.11 - Mr Smalls - Show Preview - Concert Preview

2011-09-17T22:10:00.001-04:00

The Felice Brothers will play along with The Dodos at Mr Smalls this Wednesday 9.21. We are happy to be giving away a pair of tickets to the show. Just email us at pghmusicreport@gmail.com with your name to enter.

The Felice Brothers are touring behind their latest album Celebration, Florida released on their new home of Fat Possum Records. We were able to catch up with drummer Dave Turbeville to talk about the new album, recording in a High School and how Poison's "Nothin but a Good Time" made him dedicate his life to music.

How did this album become produced on Fat Possum Records? You had previously been on Team Love. Why the switch? What has Fat Possum offered you?

Team Love are good friends and a great label, but our contract with them was up and we wanted to try something new. We were in Mississippi and Matthew Johnson from Fat Possum offered us 100 dollars worth of fried chicken and a stack of Junior Kimbrough CDs. It was an offer we couldn't really refuse.

The Felice Brothers "Ponzi" by fatpossum

Your new album “Celebration, Florida” was recorded in an old High School in upstate New York. How did that come about? Why this type of venue instead of a professional studio?

We've never really had the money to record in a proper studio, nor the desire. We've always been more inspired by creating our own space and working our own hours; not feeling like we're on the clock, or on someone else's time. We heard about the high school through a friend at the right time, and moved in immediately. We had tons of space to make as much noise as we wanted, day or night. A lot of the percussion was made with slamming lockers and chairs and dishes being thrown. It was like Rock 'N Roll High School, but much colder. And lonelier. Or like Lord of the Flies, but none of us died. or like Don't Tell Mom the Babysitter's Dead, but without the dead babysitter.

Could you tell us about the name, “Celebration, Florida” and why it became your album title (I am from that area originally and am really curious)? Is there a theme behind it that intertwines with the town? Or?

Celebration, FL is a planned community created by the Walt Disney Corporation. A lot of the songs dealt with alienation and disillusionment, and the idea of constructing your own paradise. We sort of took the title and ran with it.

A lot has been made of the change of sound on this album. Descriptions include acid jazz, dance beats, tribal sounds, etc. Were you all attempting a new sound to redefine the band? Or did this come about naturally?

We didn't really premeditate any of that. We'd been touring for a long time since our last record, and had been experimenting with new sounds for quite awhile. By the time we started recording Celebration, we were really excited to push ourselves and try new things. There were no real rules or guidelines, except to be as expressive as possible. Since most of the songs tell stories, we crafted a lot of the instrumentation and arrangements around trying to compliment or embellish the lyrics, or around a general theme or feeling. We weren't too concerned with genre or anything like that, just making the songs as honest as effective as possible.

How did your creative process work on the new album? Were you trying to flesh these out in the old HS? Did you have a set of songs ready when you entered the recording process?

We had the sketches for about 40 songs when we went into the studio. Some were just sketches, and some were mostly completed and then dismantled and reconstructed. We toiled over arrangements pretty intensely. It was really exhausting, but completely rewarding.

In the beginning of your career I read you started out busking. Do you ever do this for nostalgia? Do you do things different than in a club environment (besides the obvious)?

I think everyone feels a little nostalgic for the busking days every now and then, but mostly we're just excited to be doing what we're doing. There have been a couple times when we've needed some cash and busked, and there will probably be a few more. I doubt that ghost will ever leave us.

How do you go about creating your music? Do you all contribute to the lyrics and music?

One person typically comes with a sketch and we all work together fleshing it out musically. Usually whoever sings a song is the lyricist, though there is sometimes collaboration.

What made you want to dedicate your life to music? Was there a show or album?

When I was five, I was sitting in a hotel room with my brother and saw Poison's "Nothin but a Good Time" video. A kid at his dish washing job is getting yelled at by his boss, who is a real dick, and walks through a secret door into a Poison concert. He never goes back to his job. At the end of the video the sink is overflowing and the boss is yelling and I thought it was the best thing I'd ever seen. After the second chorus, Cee Cee Deville rips a guitar solo on top of the light scaffold, and at that moment it all changed for me. I completely knew.

Anything you would like to say to Pittsburgh?

You know what it is. BLACK AND YELLOW, BLACK AND YELLOW.

Movie Review - Drive - Soundtrack - 9.16.11

2011-09-15T06:50:00.002-04:00

I don’t normally review movies, however when a chance topreview Drive came along I was more than excited to get a sneak peek. I was asked to consider the music soundtrackof the movie and have to agree that it scores this movies vibe perfectly. The movie has a disconnected, retro feel about it and the electronic music with a chilling female vocal fits well.

The movie begins with a never named character, fantasticallyand slickly played by Ryan Gosling, who speaks on the phone to a would- beclient which sets the premise for the movie. The Man says that he is available to drive, he asks no questions, he isavailable for you for 5 minutes and will do anything in that time. The first few minutes promise an actionpacked, speed chasing thriller that actually unfolds in an entirely differentdirection.

This is not the typical car chase movie, Goslings charactermeets love interest played by an enchanting Carey Mulligan. We come to find out that Mulligan and heryoung son are left single after her husband was sent to prison. To summarize the plot set up, the husbandgets out of jail but not without owing one last favor in order to leave thelife of crime. The Man decides to helphim serve this one last deal in order to free him from his debts and deliver himback to the woman and child he has grown to love. Of course the deal does not go smoothly andthe husband ends up dead. What followsfrom there is a chillingly calm terror streak, more of a path to streetjustice, which is brilliantly executed by Gosling.

You never hear the Man speak more than 5 words, you neverfind out anything about his past, you never get any sort of emotion from him atall. But you know that he will doanything to keep safe the woman and her child. He takes on a cast of mobsters and gangsters, often with graphicviolence, all the while walking around in slow motion in his increasingly bloodstained satin jacket with a gold Scorpio emblazoned on the back.

The ending is as ambiguous as the Mans personality, butwatch for yourself, I think you will enjoy.

The movie premieres this Friday, 9/16.

-Shannon Smith

Interview : Why? Concert Preview 9.15.11 – Carnegie Music Hall

2011-09-12T14:38:00.000-04:00

A Conversation with Yoni Wolf of WHY?

This Thursday evening, September 15th, the Carnegie Music Hall in Carnegie will host a unique night of music with WHY? and Serengeti. The three members of WHY? will play a stripped down set to premiere material from their upcoming, as-yet-untitled album. I spoke with frontman Yoni Wolf by phone this past week while he was in a studio in Atlanta, hard at work on the new album.

“This tour is a way to preview the new songs from our album that we're working on now. It’s just a way to let people in on what we're working on and, you know, to go hang out with the folks again,” Wolf laughs. “This will be the first time by and large that we are playing the new songs.” The band has been working on practicing the live material over the past few weeks in preparation for the tour, which will take them up the east coast, to Washington and California, and ultimately to the UK, France, and Germany. Pittsburgh is the second date on the tour after it opens in WHY?’s hometown of Cincinnati. “I don’t know exactly when the new album will come out. We’re still working on it,” Wolf said. He told me that working with Graham Marsh has been exciting, and he hopes to finish up production in the next month or so and work on a release
date.

The chance to hear new material from WHY? is exciting. Over the past several years, Wolf’s music has been incredibly creative and rapidly changing. WHY? has notoriously defied categorization in sound, bringing together a range of instruments (always heavy in flawless percussions) and vocal styles to blend hip hop, indie rock, folk, Americana and more. In 2008, the band released the critically acclaimed LP Alopecia, featuring a stream-of-consciousness delivery of infectiously clever lyrics; spoken, rapped and sung over percussion, bass, and keyboards. Just a year later, they followed with Eskimo Snow, an album recorded during the same session. Wolf decided to release two separate albums because he felt that they had produced two sets of songs with radically different stylings and feel. On Eskimo Snow, pianos and guitar carried Wolf’s lyrics into a deeper contemplation of themes begun on Alopecia, particularly that of mortality. At points, he lyrically takes on the guise of the eternal mummy of a pharaoh (pictured on the album’s cover). He asks elsewhere about aging and death, “Am I too concerned with the burn of scrutiny/ Cold chased on run and covered like a horse before the race/ Will I gain weight in later life?/ And when will someone swing a scythe against me?”

For me, Wolf’s lyrics are some of the best in music today—heavy on imagery and thematic connections across songs, even though he rarely lays these themes out in advance. I asked him about his writing process and inspiration for lyrics. “For this album, I was writing lyrics in bits here and there, maybe a couplet, maybe a stanza, or just a phrase. I collected them over the course of 4 or 5 years. I would write bits of songs as well, just melodies. And then I went through a process of putting everything together, figuring how everything fit together in the songs.”

He is known to keep a disciplined work schedule; joking in the past about not leaving the house for six days a week, diligently sitting at the piano working through melodies and lyrics. I asked how it fits together so seamlessly on the albums. “Lots of editing, man. LOTS and lots of editing.” Wolf’s philosophy of the creative process rings truer for me than that of musicians who claim that their music just ‘flows.’ “It really is what I think Edison* said: what goes in is 5% talent, 95% work and effort. I really do feel that way. The initial idea is, I guess, that sort of innate thing that I have that you could consider talent, but those are just little things that come. Where it really comes together is in all the effort of just crafting it and putting it together and spending all the time and energy to do it.”

I asked if he enjoyed the work involved in the creative process. He hesitatingly said, “Yeah…. I do. Like everything else, though, after awhile it can get cumbersome, you know.” In another line I love from Eskimo Snow. “That’s right, I’m like everybody else is/ Ashamed of sleep. I lie when a phone call wakes me.”

As I think about the many ways an artist or author determines what their work is really about, there are many ways of arriving there. Do the artist’s intentions matter? Or is it instead the listener’s interpretations? Wolf finds himself somewhere between the two: he is both the artist creating the songs and lyrics, but he says he often doesn’t grasp the meaning of an album in its entirety until his is done recording and becomes a listener to his own work. “I don't know where this new album is going yet. It is very different from Eskimo Snow, without a doubt. Honestly it's very different, I think the attitude is very different, but I don't know how to summarize it yet, exactly. I have to sort of hear everything together. Really, it's about putting the album together and listening to it through without thinking about it as a work space before I can really get a sense of what it's about. You know what I'm saying? I mean, that's how it is for me anyway. I work on intuition a lot. That's how it really tends to be for me, I don't really get a total feel for what it's about till later.”

I invite anyone interested in a creative and thoughtful music to jump on this opportunity to see a band perform advance songs from what will surely be a highlight of 2012’s new releases. The audience will be able to partake, along with Yoni Wolf, Doug McDiarmid, and Josiah Wolf in the process of creative interpretation of songs, old and new. As Wolf told me, although he writes the songs and has some privileged position to understanding them, it’s really about making sense of things, whether as artist or listening. “I have more insight into where the songs are coming from...that's why I really do it in a way is to get to the bottom of things to really understand what's going on. And it's my way of doing that.”

*Edison said, “Genius is one percent inspiration, ninety-nine percent perspiration.”

-Daniel Hammer

Ticket Giveaway and Concert Preview: Lowry with Velcro Shoes at Club Cafe - 9.16.11

2011-09-11T11:58:00.000-04:00

Indie rock band Lowry will be performing this Friday, 9/16 at Club Cafe. This is a late show with doors at 10p and show beginning at 10:30. We are giving away a pair of tickets to the show. Simply email us at pghmusicreport@gmail.com

The Weight Of Light by Lowry

Lowry are a Brooklyn based band with members hailing from around the world including New Zealand, Australia and Canada. Lead man Alex Lowry has helped create 3 albums since 2005 including Awful Joy, Love is Dead (2008) and this year's Emporia. Alex considers these a trilogy. A few things about the lyrics from Alex: "They're mostly about people, love, true stories mixed with things I've seen, cosmic stuff and some subversive stuff. I'm a ufologist and also have a very keen interest in the political realm (as it relates to our apparent aloneness in the Universe). I'm also a big Christopher Hitchens fan and I've spent time with Noam Chomsky in Boston. We mostly talked about Universal Grammar as opposed to civil rights violations in some small countries. I'm an atheist and a humanist."

Those That Dance by Lowry

Also appearing will be Velcro Shoes who I consider one of the best local bands. I will be posting a spotlight on them later this month.

Again, show begins at 10:30p with tickets only costing $7. Good way to spend a Friday night.

Interview - Will Cullen Hart - Olivia Tremor Control - New Hazlett Theater - 9/15/11 - Show Preview

2011-09-09T01:18:00.001-04:00

One of the most unique band's born in the early 90's will be making a stop in Pittsburgh on 9/15 at the New Hazlett Theater. Olivia Tremor Control are synonymous with the Elephant 6 label (indie pop) they developed during those formidable years. Honing their sound in Athens, GA the band created two of the best experimental pop albums of that decade that received international acclaim in the underground scene. I was never able to hear or realize the full extent of their influence until years later. On their drive to Los Angeles, we were able to speak with Will Cullen Hart about the future of the band, current lineup and their next release.

First, is this the original lineup that will be touring? Are we to expect any extra players?

Yes, this is the original lineup with a couple of other backups. AJ and Derek are both helping out with the sound. Eric is not with us right now, but I believe he is going to join he’s going to be with us soon. Scott is playing horns and Robby is as well. It’s exactly the same lineup beyond that.

What made you decide to tour now? Will you continue touring? Or is this just a short stint?

Honestly, it’s just fun. We did something 5 years ago with All Tomorrow’s Party, but that was it. We are actually creating and recording for a new album which will probably be out in Spring 2012. This tour is to help flesh out some of these songs. It’s also just to remind people that we are still out there. It’s a short stretch of 17 shows. In December we will be playing in England at All Tomorrow’s Party Festival which is being curated by Jeff Magnum. There are a lot of new people that never saw us or even heard us, so this is a way for it to happen.

What have you all been up to this past 15 years? Still working with music? Or regular jobs and families?

Yes, many of us have families and jobs, I don’t. Members were always working on different projects such as Circulatory System and Sunshine Fix. For this tour some have to take their vacation time just to make the trip.

For those of us who were too young and never saw you perform live, what should we expect from your live performance? Do you condense these songs to shorten them for a live show?

Most of our songs are just 3 minutes. There might be a couple that run together on the albums, but we try to switch it up and freak them out a bit. We mix it up and try to make it fun. There are a couple of news songs we will be playing, but for the most part we play all old material.

Chunklet is reissuing your two albums Dusk at Cubist Castle and Black Foliage. How did this come about? Why now? I read an interview where at one time you were having difficulty getting your master tapes. Were you able to get these for this release?

John (Chunklet) is an old friend of ours who actually put out our second single. He was willing to put up the money to reissue these albums. We wanted the vinyl to look really good if we did it and it turned out great. All the artwork has been rescanned and it just looks awesome. We remastered the Black Foliage album. We wanted to make it sonically better with a more full sound. If you compare it to the other version you will be “like wow”. Dusk at Cubist Castle we didn’t touch because we are happy with the way it sounds.

Yes, we had difficulty getting them (original tapes) back from the label, I couldn’t even tell you what happened there. But they were also really cool and helped us out. We wanted to put a double album to show everything we could do and they were really supportive. We ended up releasing two double albums because the first one did so well.

You recently released one new song, “The Game You Play Is in Your Head, Parts 1, 2 &3”. Should we expect new material? EP? LP? Or will this just trickle as time progresses?

Yeah, I am pretty sure we will be putting something out this spring. It will probably be an LP, but it might even be a double LP. We have about 30 something bits and songs. But we don’t know if they will all work. Cloud Recording will be putting the album out.

At one time I remember a dvd that was being created from live shows/recordings. Is this still in the works? Did anything ever become of it?

A few people have promised that. It’s finally starting to materialize after all these years. Three or four people told us they would create something, but it just never got done. A friend of Robert Schneider’s (Apples in Stereo) is actually putting it together. He gave us a promo of it and it really looks great. It should be good.

There are several bands that have jumped on the reunion band wagon the past 5 years getting pretty good guarantees (Pavement, Dinosaur Jr, Sebadoh, Pixies, etc). Have you all received similar offers from promoters, etc?

No. That would be awesome. No one ever came to us besides All Tomorrows Party.

How is your health these days? I read about the MS you were diagnosed with. Does working on music, performing live, etc help?

Yes. I am actually doing a lot better over the last 2 years. Music has been a great outlet for me and helps out a lot.

What does the immediate future hold for OTC? Anything you are wishing to accomplish in the interim?

Touring and putting out the new album.

Any memories from visiting Pittsburgh? Anything you would like to say?

Is the Mattress Factory still there? Really like that place. The Andy Warhol Museum of course which is where we will be playing. I hear the Hazlett Theater has a really great sound system. Looking forward to it.

Show Preview - Sidi Toure - 9/10/11 - Thunderbird Cafe - Pittsburgh - Concert Preview

2011-09-06T20:00:00.000-04:00

This isn't something we normally cover, but it's definitely worth checking out. Sidi Toure will be playing this Saturday at the Thunderbird Cafe. Toure grew up in Gao, Mali, a small city between the Sahara Desert and Niger. Toure grew up among a family of nobleman who trace their lineage back from the Asika Kings. As a young man, Toure created guitars out of old wood, often smashing them apart when arguing with his family over his expected role. Without his parents approval, Toure followed his love of music becoming the youngest member of Gao's Orchestra who often played national festivals.

Sidi Touré with Douma Maïga from Thrill Jockey Records on Vimeo.

While more of a traditional musician, Toure often listened to JJ Cale and Kenny Rogers. From his bio:

Sidi’s sound both captures and challenges his roots. The music moves from the translucent swaying takamba to the trance inducing Holley, while the lyrics often address many non-traditional issues. Sidi has a critical mind and his songs have a purpose. For example, in “Adema,” Sidi and his collaborator sing about how to electrify and modernize their country. “The songs must come from within,” says Touré. “If I sing about things and there is no change, then it will have been a waste.” He strives to be more than a singer, but in fact a creative artist that affects change.

Currently signed to Thrill Jockey Records, Toure is touring behind his album released this past January, Sahel Folk. The show is scheduled for this Saturday at 9p with tickets $12 and $15 day of the show.

Show Review - Caveman and The War On Drugs - 9/1/11 - Club Cafe - Live Review - Concert Review

2011-09-04T22:31:00.001-04:00

This is going to be a very short review of The War On Drugs with Caveman at Club Cafe this past Thursday to a relatively packed crowd. The audience was divided with over 3/4 standing while a 1/4 of the attendance were seated in the booths and bar stools along the wall. Let me just say, if you take this show as a whole, it is the best of the year. Caveman out of NYC, set the tone early with an amazing set featuring a partitioned drum kit between two people. They were beyond tight and quite accomplished for a band not many have heard. We were wondering if this could be eclipsed, but it was matched with The War on Drugs.

I realize I will catch grief for this, but if Kurt Vile had been playing in place of the TWOD, you would have not known the difference. Watching Vile earlier this year at the Warhol, you can see why these two were collaborators. Not just in sound, vocals and rhythm, but simply in mannerisms and stage presence. You couldn't tell the two apart. Not that its a bad thing, but it made me wonder who designed the sound? KV or Adam G.? It was pretty much hand and hand. But so good. Checkout some of the video and decide for yourself.

Matthew Sweet - Mr Smalls - 10.21.11 - 20th Anniversary 'Girlfriend' Tour

2011-08-31T19:54:00.000-04:00

I just received Opus One's weekly email and saw Matthew Sweet is coming to Mr Smalls in October. I honestly didn't even realize he was still around, much less producing music. But checking his wiki page, Sweet has been releasing albums almost annually. Go figure.

Sweet's most popular album, 'Girlfriend' was released 20 years ago and eventually was certified gold. This was during the heyday of grunge where power pop was the bottom of the barrel for many music fies. Even though it wasn't the most popular album that year in the alt world, 'Girlfriend' was considered a masterpiece of post-punk pop. Sweet's reputation sky rocketed before fizzling out after his follow up 100% Fun in 1995.

Sweet is touring behind the 20th year anniversary of 'Girlfriend' and will be playing the LP in its entirety. I am not sure what to expect, much less if I even recall enjoying the album back in the day. Listening to a couple of songs, I guess it's a solid output, but does nothing in the way of nostalgia. I guess Nirvana was playing nonstop on my cassette tape.

Should be interesting to see what kind of crowd he will get for this show.

Show Preview - The War On Drugs - 9/1/11 - Club Cafe - Concert Review

2011-08-27T14:30:00.000-04:00

Adam Granduciel is the front man and the driving force behind Philadelphia's The War On Drugs. Granduciel moved from Oakland to Philly back in 2003 and began collaborating with Kurt Vile on many of his albums. The two soon began a new project, The War On Drugs, before Vile left and Adam continued the endeavor recruiting local Philly musicians. He began releasing albums in 2005 before Secret Canadian Label picked him up. Four albums later, Adam released his new record on August 16, Slave Ambient. Already it has garnered national praise receiving Pitchfork's 'Best New Music', 4 stars from Mojo and 5 stars from Uncut.

The War on Drugs - "Come to the City" (Official Music Video) from Urban Outfitters on Vimeo.

From their press:

Slave Ambient features a team of Philadelphia's finest musicians, including multi-instrumentalists Dave Hartley and Robbie Bennett, and drummer Mike Zanghi. Recorded throughout the last four years at Granduciel's home studio in Philly, Jeff Ziegler's Uniform Recording and Echo Mountain in Asheville, NC, the album puts the weirdest influences in just the right places. Synthesizers fall where you might expect more electric guitars (and vice versa); country-rock sidles up to the warped extravagance of '80s pop.

The War on Drugs "Baby Missiles" from Secretly Jag on Vimeo.

Show is scheduled to begin at 8p with doors at 7p. Caveman will be opening. You can find more information about them here.

Show Preview - Caveman w/ War on Drugs - 9/1/11 - Club Cafe - Concert Preview

2011-08-26T17:41:00.003-04:00

Caveman will be performing Thursday, 9/1 at Club Cafe supporting The War On Drugs. They are another band hailing from NYC. If you search their name on your favorite search engine, you will find a small buzz about them from Pitchfork to the New York Times. NYT described there music as "a rolling set, thick with animalistic drums and swooning guitar riffs…an hour of seamless musical beauty." Good stuff right? The sound is balanced with animated electronics and downhearted melodies over a chamber pop tune. Just take a listen below.

The band is one year old and is putting out its first LP (digital) this coming September. The album entitled Coco Beware, is having a physical release in November. You can find more about the band here:

http://cavemantheband.com/
http://www.facebook.com/CavemanBand
http://www.myspace.com/thiscaveman

Doors at Club Cafe open at 7p and show beginning at 8p.

Lollapalooza 2011 in Review Part II

2011-08-23T18:36:00.000-04:00

Doing a quick wrap up of Lollapalooza. The last day of the festival we were fortunate enough to obtain backstage passes. It's a whole different world watching from the stage and enjoying all the free food and alcohol. Only bad part was the off and on rain during the last day. Since the park sits right on the lake, it quickly becomes mud with thousands trampling on it. But here are the top 3 acts I caught, balanced with the 3 that were most disappointing.

Best:

Explosions in the Sky: With the sunset and cool breeze as a backdrop, they were simply amazing.

Death From Above 1979: Wish I had caught this band a smaller venue. They totally thrilled the crowd.

Muse: Masterful live act. Wish they would make a stop here. They had a full on fireworks set.

Dissapointments:

Mountain Goats: Usually like this band a lot. But they were simply bland and did nothing special besides where suits with an excellent time slot. Wasted.
Noah & The Whale: Crowd was ready for this band. Simply pedestrian. No intensity, no interaction. Snooze.
The Pains of Being Pure at Heart: Was on the stage for this one. Could only take four songs before bailing. Seriously do something to liven up your set.

Lollapalooza 2011 In Review

2011-08-21T22:18:00.000-04:00

I have been meaning to write a proper review of Lollapalooza 2011. Time is not my friend these days.

Top 3 Bands Friday, 8/5/11:

3) White Lies - Never Even heard of this band. Brilliant.
2) The Naked and Famous - Heard of this band. Good god are they good.
1) Muse - The best live act going today.

Saturday, 8/6/11

3) Disappears - Why did I not see this band at the Brillo?
2) Death From Above 1979 - Most had never seen this band nor had I. They are worth the hype.
1) Eminem - Surprise of the festival. Wow.

Sunday, 8/7/11

3) Foo Fighters - This should have been amazing, but rain dampered my spirits.
2) The Joy Formidable - The best coda to a show at the festival bar none.
1) Explosions in the Sky - Backstage with Arctic Monkeys cutting in. These guys were professional as hell.

Wise Blood Impersonator - Stereogum Fooled

2011-08-19T19:11:00.000-04:00

I was just perusing around Stereogum searching for Wise Blood since they commissioned his cover of 'Someday'. Well, it appears they were fooled when promoting a twitter account as his. You would think they might double check since working with him. But here is the post promoting @fuckwiseblood.

His real twitter account is @Wi5eBlood, where you can find this tweet to stereogum: "@stereogum u do know that @fuckwiseblood is someone pretending to be me, right?" Join him, the fake twitter account has many more followers.

If you ever wonder what he looks like close up, this him watching a live recording of himself.

Here is an article from CBS Pittsburgh as well.

Wise Blood Releases New EP - 'These Wings' - 8/30/11

2011-08-17T12:05:00.000-04:00

Cruising down the road listening to XM, our favorite local artist popped up on the radio with his new single 'Nosferatu'. I did a double take to verify what I was hearing. Wise Blook (aka Chris Laufman) will be releasing his first album on major Dovecote Records on October 30th. These Wings marks a period of over a year since Laufman's self release, '+' EP. There is probably more in the vault than these seven songs, but at least Dovecote has finally set a release date.

If you don't know, Stereogum commissioned WB to create a song for The Strokes Is This It 10 year anniversary. It took me a couple of listens, but 'Someday' is one of the best covers that pushes the boundaries of the typical. Take a listen below.

Wise Blood - Someday by Wise Blood

These Wings is available for preorder at this link:
http://dovecoterecords.com/media/preorders/thesewings//

Wise Blood - Nosferatu by Dovecote Records

Local Artist Spotlight - RIVKA - August 2011

2011-08-16T18:30:00.002-04:00

RIVKA is our featured local artist for the month of August. The band is an electronic duo featuring Reggie Wilkins and Rebecca Dulberg. They met while attending the University of Pittsburgh (Rebecca is now a junior) at a jam session and realized they had common interests. They soon formed the project RIVKA. Below you can find our interview with the band along with some of their songs streaming. You can find more information on the band here: http://rivka.bandcamp.com/

How did the band come together? Were you all friends that went to school? or?

We met at a spontaneous jam session at the University of Pittsburgh and discovered we had common music interests.

How would you describe your sound to someone who has never heard you?

Our music is still evolving, as it is a very new project and combination of ideas. Our aim, however, is to achieve a warm ambience that evokes nostalgic days of summer and youth through the use of icy soundscapes, passive vocals, and grooving beats.

Are you all originally from the Pittsburgh area? Families here as well?

Reggie Wilkins is originally from Washington, DC. He moved out here to attend the University of Pittsburgh, from which he graduated with a degree in architectural studies this past spring. Rebecca Dulberg is originally from Miami, Florida and also moved to Pittsburgh to attend the university. She will be a junior in the fall of 2011. Both Reggie and Rebecca’s families still reside in their hometowns.

Do you all create music full time or is this more of a part time venture?

Reggie has committed to making music a full time hobby since his recent college graduation, while Rebecca is still attending school and working on music in her free time.

Do you have day jobs?

Reggie gives piano lessons and has a paid position as a church pianist. Rebecca is a full time student and provides child care during most afternoons.

How do you create your music? What is the song writing process?

Reggie writes the music for the songs and some of the lyrics, while Rebecca creates ambient melodies in addition to lyrics. Our friend, John Chriest of Ivory Weeds, gave us a copy of Logic Express and that’s when the music really began to happen for us. Reggie was able to experiment with different synthesizers and drums, while Rebecca took advantage of vocal effects. We both just have a lot of fun with it and are pretty much addicted to the creative process.

What are your goals for the band? What would you like to accomplish?

Are you trying to get signed to a label?If the opportunity presents itself, it would be nice to find a label. Our goals are to keep pushing RIVKA out into the music world as much as possible and have it reach more and more ears because we love what we do and want to see where it goes.

What advice would you give to local acts trying to make it?

Putting our stuff up online was really helpful for spreading the music around. It has reached blogs overseas and we have networked with other musicians who were enthusiastic about discovering our music and sharing their own.

Have you all toured nationally? Or do you usually stay more regionally?

For the most part we have stayed regionally. However, we played a show in Miami, Florida this past May and are currently planning a mini tour in the Northeast.

What are some of the obstacles you face trying to create some 'success' in Pgh?

Pittsburgh is such a small city, which makes it more difficult to branch out and network with other musicians. We would like to discover more developing artists with music similar to ours.

What are the positive benefits of being in the area?

Because it is such a small city, there is a familial feeling in the music scene. Local artists are supportive of one another and it is common to see the same faces at our shows.

Is there a venue you have enjoyed playing more than others in the area?

We have enjoyed house venues the most so far, for example The Beach House. The shows are free and the atmosphere is vibrant and filled with a true love for music.