Rrose Sélavy and The Psycho Mafia

A Hard Fall

2008-06-08T16:03:00.004-04:00

John Mayall & The Bluesbreakers - A Hard Road

As good as electric blues can get when done by a white guy, an English white guy no less. Don't get me wrong, whites can certainly make music but the Blues? No, beyond this album I'd probably say "I'll pass" to any Blues that isn't coming straight out of the heart of old Black man. Just the way it is for me, can't be changed. And before someone comments "What about SRV?" don't bother - I couldn't care less about him. Anyway, for some strong Blues concerned only with the call of the road, dangerous little girls (and aren't they all?), memories of lost love and general Blues fodder - this is the record to hear. It doesn't know how to disappoint so don't worry about that.

The Fall - The Collection

I found this somewhere online, but I couldn't tell you where ... the nature of drive-by downloading, I guess? It seems that this is merely a one-off from a label looking to rake-in a bit of that Fall money. The songs are not all 'unreleased' (especially when you consider the expanded editions we've been seeing lately), in fact, a good deal of the appear on albums ranging from Dragnet to Perverted By Language - so, if you're not already a Fall fan then I suggest you have a go at this because this is one of those rare instances where the 'Greatest Hits' surpasses adequate and lands somewhere closer to a tape a Fall fan would make to convert the nons. Point is -if you need to hear more Fall this rivals listening to a straight album BUT if you're simply interested in hearing The Fall cover The Beatles "A Day in the Life" then either download this or search a P2P until you unearth it. Warning the copy of "A Day in the Life" has a glitch - it skips 1 sec about 4-5 secs in - a fair warning but still an amazing experience to listen to MES admit he appreciates The Beatles via homage.

Note: Not the actual cover art!

Just one

2008-05-31T17:20:00.005-04:00

Endless Boogie - Vol 1 and 2

The dirtiest jams you've heard are here. Jams that can go for miles. Jams that will release your inner stoner, or satisfy your outer stoner -either way, be sure to turn off any appliances and sit down when you put this record on -because you're gonna space hard about halfway through the first song and you don't want to burn down the house. This isn't a blues jam or a Floyd-type jam -it's a simple down right dirty R'n'R fantasy dream jam sprung from the mind of four men who hold music in the highest regard.

There a bit of info about the band out there -you'll read it over and over again and again: "they're old (the frontman is 51)" "one works for Matador" "brooklyn" "secret I wish I didn't have to share" "don't play a show unless asked" -there you have it ... that's the wealth of information on the 'net. Not much to say -who cares about the band? Music is a reason to get up in the morning and these gents are making music that will keep you going until morning so have a listen and remember to lie down so as not to hurt yourself.
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Normally, I make one post containing two bands of differing genres - you must know that by now. This week, no. I'm looking for some recommendations this week for next saturday's post. Currently, I'm almost exclusively listening to Nigerian rock/blues/psych from the 70's (5 discs worth came in this weeks mail) so I'm spoken for when it comes to listening to new things. Being that I can't go out and hunt down new tunes for you all I was hoping you all could bring me some new music? How about it?

It Feels Creepy!!

2008-05-23T20:28:00.005-04:00

Marc Riley & The Creepers - Fancy Meeting God!

It's 1983, you're Marc Riley and you've just been tossed out of The Fall by their commander-in-chief, Mark E. Smith -on your wedding day and over the phone - what to do??? Well, if you were playing along and you were, in fact, Marc Riley for a moment there back in 83, then I don't need to tell you ... but in the event that we don't all have such phenomenal imaginatory powers I'll tell you - You'd start The Creepers and try to beat MES at his own game.
So, does that mean The Creepers sound like The Fall? Not entirely -Riley's band is generally faster/ the vocals are less mumbly/ and the lyrics are less bitter. Think of The Creepers as the alter-Fall. Strangely familiar yet different. It's highly enjoyable whether you're a Fall fan or not. And that's all I'm saying on this.

The Feelies - Time For a Witness

This straight ahead, simple indie rock spinner is so unlike the rest of the indie rock touchstone albums that on first listen you might not even understand what the commotion is all about. It might take a minute to realize that, yes, Virginia, it is possible to be an indie rock band that doesn't sound like some 2nd gen shoe-gazey My Bloody Valentine . Anyway, there's no sense in pretending you're an indie rock enthusiast until you've heard this album in it's entirety and either accepted or rejected it. Simple, graceful, acutely beautiful - I give you (quite literally) The Feelies.

P.S. - If you're in NYC area be sure to look into their free show on July 4th ... it's a double-bill with Sonic Youth.

Stereo Dub

2008-05-10T18:39:00.004-04:00

Pavement - Pacific Trim and Stereo EP

I don't know if I have to say anything about Pavement when posting them here. I think we all know Pavement -it's my intention to share a couple of singles with you, not introduce you to them. So, with that non-introductory introduction out of the way let me tell you about these two discs.
Pacific Trim contains what could be best overall Pavement song - "Give It a Day" It's historic (though inaccurate), it's got some wonderful lyric imagery (word spread just like small pox in the Sudan / eyes are eyes and teeth are teeth, well mine are rotten underneath) and has SM tersely emoting to his girl about her father. It is by far my favorite Pavement song.
"Gangsters & Pranksters" is a look at a hypothetical match-up between some gangster and the Merry Pranksters. You know, Ken Kesey's crew. Let's just say SM doesn't think the Pranksters stand a chance, though they've got better drugs...
"Saganaw" is a slow jam to round out the single. Sounding a bit Indian, perhaps?

Then we have the Stereo single, minus Stereo, of course, as you should have it on your copy of Brighten the Corners -right?
Stereo opens with "Westie Cannot Drum" -some of SM's best lines can be heard here, as well as some pretty neat-o screaming to close the track. Take a listen to this one because it's too much to define.
Then there's "Winner of The" and "Birds in the Majic Industry" two songs you'll want to hear if you haven't yet. Why? Because their Pavement songs you haven't heard yet.

King Tubby - Dub From the Roots

I almost feel strange for posting this, as it's a dub record and it seems out of place here at the PsychoMafia - however to not post it would be uncharacteristic of me since what I do is post the best of what I'm currently listening to - and these days the dub has been playing pretty regularly. Trust me, if you like listening to music you will like King Tubby. He is the root of all dub, Tubby is the master. Tubby was a sound engineer prior to making music -so you can be sure he knew what good music was/ how to make it / and most importantly, how to make it sound good. Each Tubby track is layer upon layer of sounds building into a minimal rhythm jams that will hold a steady groove in the room until the record ends. I'm not gonna go on and one describing this to you because I know how difficult it can be to pressured into a new genre, especially one like Dub -which I'm sure some of you have some preconceived notions about. If it's any help to you - I am NOT a fan of Marley and other reggae. I only listen to Tubby because he is assuredly the best. But if you do listen and end up enjoying the record ... I suggest you move on toward someone like Burning Spear.

No Lack of Afros

2008-05-03T13:39:00.005-04:00

Fela Kuti & The Africa 70 - Open and Close

This has been spinning in my house quite a bit so I figured I might as well share it - you see, for a long time I believed if the music is really special, and I mean, off the charts space is the palce type of good, that the proper method of dealing with it is to hide it away the shelf and only play it when your home alone. Yes - for a time I thought it was best to keep the music I loved away from everyone else, as if I was somehow preserving its magic... Well, fortunately I've changed my ways and I'm off loading some real funky Afrobeat on you. You may already know Fela's brand of Afrobeat - I hope you don't because it will only make your first listen that much better - anyway, imagine James Brown fronting the Talking Heads but with a Nigerian accent. You want to hear it? It's here for you. You want to dance uncontrollably? You know what to do. If you want to know what Funk crossed with Jazz buried in Nigeria and unearthed by the man with most energy sounds like click the link and tell me how you feel. Fela's music is the type that alters your mood -as all great music should, the difference here is that you dance away feeling great.

Max Roach - Percussion Bitter Sweet

It would take a much more talented man then I to define what it is that is so powerful about this album. From the vocal lead-in to the many Max Roach drum solos to Eric Dolphy's continuous innovation to Clifford Jordan's well situated counter-balanced playing - Percussion Bittersweet is near the top of my list for greatest all-time jazz recording (Mingus' Black Saint and the Sinner Lady / Blakey's Night in Tunisia / and of course, Cannonball's Mercy, Mercy, Mercy -are also on that list to give you some ideas). As a reviewer on Amazon says "THIS ALBUM IS MORE THAN AMAZING - I CAN'T RECOMMEND IT HIGHLY ENOUGH." What more is there to say - Dolphy shines, Little shines, Roach shines, all the not important enought to mention side players shine - - Tender Warriors might be Roach's high-water mark / and Dolphy's playing on the album overall isn't the least-bit overly self-indulgent (my primary criticism of his playing) - not to mention his flute on this album -this may truly be the finest hour for every player in the band. Give it shot because I feel like I'm floundering. As I said at the start, I don't have the talent to explain this album in such a way as to make you understand how desperately you need to hear this record. If you're going ahead with a listen - try your best to explain why other's should hear it ... thanks...

Bombs Away!

2008-04-25T17:43:00.003-04:00

Mclusky - Mclusky Do Dallas

Thrashing hard on some lo-fi noise, Mclusky is hard to forget -once you've actually discovered them that is. If you've heard anything about them it was most likely that they have a Pixies-ish sound... well, sure in some places they can be angular -but tell me Cobain wasn't striving toward Frank Black sometimes. Pay no mind to those who have nothing positive to say about Mclusky - they have an energy that went unmatched during their run (this album is from 2002) and they have fun, also important. The sound is unapologetically punk and that's not to say they aren't capable of writing good lyrics (the bane of many punk acts) -see "Alan is a Cowboy Killer" for proof. This album is for those who are on the lookout for a record that will punch them in the face and ask "did that hurt?" It's crunchy/ ferocious/ violently straight ahead fearless rock/ it's Mclusky.
Try out "Gareth Brown Says" / "To Hell with Good Intentions" / "Alan is a Cowboy Killer".

Oh and to quote Bob Dylan "Play it fucking loud..."

Cannonball Adderley - Mercy, Mercy Mercy: Live at the Club

There's never been a clearer link between hard-bop jazz of the mid-60's and the ever important Motown sound that so dominated our airwaves in that era. The difference between Motown sound and hard-bop flavor is that the hard-bop -in a surprise victory- is smoother then sexual healing.
Cannonball's band showcases Joe Zawinul (who penned the title track), his brother Nat (who wrote both "Fun" and "Games"), and of course Cannonball himself features prominently. The interesting thing about the rest of the band is that none of them are supporting players - the band pushes Cannonball further then he expected to go as the band-leader.
"Mercy, Mercy, Mercy" is by far the best track on here, but keep in mind that none of these tracks disappoint. It's just that "Mercy, Mercy, Mercy" is so soulful -and unlike any other Jazz song I've ever heard- you'll be forced to listen to it over and over and over. I especially enjoy the fact that I can hear The Velvet Underground's "New Age" in the head of this song. Perhaps Lou heard Cannonball somewhere along the line and decided he liked the sound -Lou's a very soulful guy afterall. Case in point - a friend of mine stopped by with album a while ago and said "Hey, let me play you my current favorite song" -being a good friend I obliged him use of my stereo (I don't often let people dictate music in my home) let's just say that when the song (Mercy, Mercy, Mercy) ended I was a bit bothered by the fact that it hadn't been my favorite song first. Give it a spin - I promise you'll love it.

Lost and Found

2008-04-19T15:49:00.007-04:00

Don Covay - Super Dude

Let's get right back into it... Don Covay -do you know the name? I didn't until few weeks ago when I was record shopping in the East Village and happened to hear this album playing in the background. I was shopping for Eno records so the super soul sounds of Covay -while welcome- were not of too much interest to me ... but the longer I shopped the more Covay crept in on me - the pleading intensity of his heartbreaking narratives / the honest tone of a man who cheats but can cope with being cheated on / the upbeat drive of the counterbalance tracks - it was all too much and I needed to have it. The record is funky soul mixed with the most painful encounters a man can have with his woman. Top tracks are "I was walking out she was walking in" - where Don sees his woman getting ready to check into a hotel with her sideman, as he himself is walking out with sidewoman -it hurts bad (but has a strangely familiar Astral Weeks type tone to it).... Then there's the odd Dub-style cover of Chuck Berry's "Memphis" -you know, "help me information, give me Memphis Tennessee" that gives the album a varied and rounded out feel. The rest of the tracks shift back and forth between fun soul and crushing tales of relationship woes. A terribly good record from a man who seems to have buried in time. Here he is back from the vaults and waiting for you. Let me know how feel about this one.

801 - Live

As I said earlier, I found Don Covay while shopping for Eno records -in particular his vocal records - Eno is quite well know as the ambient music guy but prior to becoming that version of Eno he was regarded the musicians musician - one of the best players / someone to chase down if you were compiling a supergroup ... like the 801.
The 801 is supergroup in an Earth 2 / bizzaro world kind of way. Imagine all of your favorite well known players in one band - sounds good right ... now imagine the music they make is better then expected and that all the names are changed - this is how we arrive at the 801. Tighter then any of other group, more complex and engaging then the rest. No egos crowd the stage, just musicians. Parts of Roxy Music and Quite Sun comprise the 801 -but my focus here is really on Eno. The 3 official Eno tracks on here will give you a fair primer of his output during those vocal years. "Baby's on Fire" / "Sombre Reptiles" / and "Third Uncle" showcase his particular talents but by no means shadow out any of the other band members -in fact, they seems to be at the top of their game throughout each and every track. Eno also leads on the 2 covers the 801 does - "You Really Got Me" and "Tomorrow Never Knows" -both covers are faithfully different - which makes them good covers...
The absolute standout track is the closer "Third Uncle" -the proof that Eno is more punk then punk itself. "Third Uncle" was released in 1974 on "Taking Tiger Mountain" and is presented here almost exactly as it is on the album, so it's a good test of Eno for you. I can't see how anyone could not like Eno - I only recently became obsessed with him (obsessed being no exaggeration) but I truly believe he is the cornerstone of so many musical genres - he is the pioneer of everything you've ever enjoyed, yet no one ever mentions him by name. I'm offering you 801 because I'd like you to go find copies of his vocal records on your own. Seek him out it will surely pay off for you.
And don't worry about this being a live record - Everything was recorded as it is in the studio - Direct Injection ... sound was run straight into a mobile studio mixing desk -a supergroup liek the 801 doesn't fool about with recordings.

Enjoy.

I'm Coming Back...

2008-04-17T09:29:00.002-04:00

I wasn't sure what it would take to revive my interest in blogging but it came to me last week from a Psychomafia reader in the form a comment. See my last post to review the kind words which have brought me back from the dead. "Not a trendie Indie Kid"!!! That's all I needed to hear, in fact I started this blog because I felt that's what the blogosphere was turning into "Check me out I found this act last year before you did..."

Anyway, this blog is strictly about sharing the finest music with fellow music lovers. I'll be posting two new records this weekend and I hope you all can rejoin me and the Psychomafia - my collection has only grown more extensive and eclectic since we've last spoke. I'm really looking forward to this round of posts.
Thanks for being my readers, I hope to see you all here again...

-Abe S.

I almost had Menigitis

2008-02-05T09:27:00.000-05:00

Sorry for the delay in posts here - I have been suffering through a flu that serves as a reminder as to the severity of the illness. People can die from the flu. Almost unimaginable, unless of course you have the flu.

I may be calling it quits soon. Not sure why. General apathy, I guess?
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Moving on - This week we'll be listening to some Prog Rock. Not something I consider myself an expert on, sure I'm familiar with Gong, Ash Ra Tempel, Faust, -etc. but beyond those standards I never involved myself -particularly because other bands such as Yes, King Crimson, and, the worst of the worst, Rush were included on that list. But looking into the definition of Prog Rock it seems the term is so vague that The Beatles, Captain Beefheart and Genesis fit the bill. According to the holy wikipedia - Prog Rock is rock music that attempts to elevate the artistic standard of the genre, Rock. See how the Beatles fit in here.

Magma -1001˚ Centigrade
None were more concerned with elevating the artistic gold standard then those who played Zeuhl. Zeuhl is a word that translates into Celestial in the language Kobaïan created by Christian Vander. Vander's band Magma is responsible for Zeuhl as a genre. The only other band who does Vander's sound as well as Vander himself is Eskaton. Shifts in intensity, tempo, style and phrasing are constant. What separates the two acts is that Eskaton does not sing in Kobaïan -some might also have you believe Eskaton is more experimental then Magma. If that's true it's only because they couldn't get away with just stealing Magma's sound verbatim.

Eskaton - 4 Visions
The sound can only be described as epically operatic space-jazz prog music from a far future where human have colonized a another planet in attempt to find peace. It's an exciting new place where you have to use your trust your ears to guide you safely through. Both bands make a similar noise -both bands generate music from the unknown realms of the imagination. Listen to the pair. Similar yet different.

The T.Rextasy Blues

2008-01-27T15:53:00.000-05:00

Hound Dog Taylor and The House Rockers - S/T

I'm on a Blues binge so stick with it. What we've got this week is Hound Dog Taylor and The House Rockers. Why should you love them? Well, for starters this is some raw blues, but not in the Chicago bar blues sense (though he was playing in Chicago) but in the Hound Dog isn't the greatest guitar player, nor singer, and his band lacked a bass player so to make up for this fact he and the rhythm guitar player would trade off playing the bass line on their guitars while the other played a solo.
If I said Hound Dog Taylor and the House Rockers have been called The Ramones of the Blues, would that get you interested? Or that Hound Dog played on a Teisco guitar (a cheap Japanese guitar sold at Sears -the same place Hound Dog picked up his cheap amp)? How about the fact that Hound Dog recorded his first and second album, live in studio over two nights? He cut off his sixth finger? Is there anyway one could not love Hound Dog Taylor. If you're not convinced yet there's only one thing to do - take a listen and let him convince of his worth.

T-Rex - Live and Rare

No way!! An 11 minute version of "Get It On"!! Get out your hubcap diamond star halos and take a chance on this collection of tunes from everyone's favorite glam rock pioneer.
A good deal of this collection is Live and includes two takes of Jeepster, one Cosmic Dancer, a little Children of the Revolution, some Tutti Frutti -because you can never get enough of it, and various other gems that will surely warm the heart of any Bolan fan. I won't say more because I have to run - and mostly because there's nothing I can do but praise Bolan. So, take a listen if you love him -or don't listen because you can't be bother with real genius.

What do you think about "The Industry"?

2008-01-25T10:01:00.000-05:00

If you haven't already seen it - there is a survey being held over at MusicIsABetterNoise.blogspot.com that I think we should all go over and take part in! Why? Because all of us here are interested in Sharing or Finding New Music and "The Industry" is trying to shut the movement down. What good will it do? Well, what if the survey were considered research for a book, and that book would help to change some aspects of the bloggers life? We might end up a little safer in the end, which I don't think any of us would mind.
Did you know the industry has gone after the Mp3? They'd prefer digital music to be coded for the particular player you have. They favor formats such as MPQ.... that wouldn't be any good for us would it?
Or how about the fact that it's the industry who releases those fake advance releases onto your favorite P2P that's not only a fake but contains a Virus?
The Record Companies are refusing to follow us into the future - Don't you have something to say to them?
Please go over to MusicIsABetterNoise.blogspot.com and voice your opinion. Put a little thought into it and let's give some real insightful answers. After all, it's the least you can do for a blogger who is putting theirself in harms way with every new post!!

Captains of Industry

2008-01-18T11:14:00.000-05:00

Captain Beefheart - Lick My Decals Off, Baby

As much as I'd prefer to continue on blogging with no repeats in featured artists I have an album/artist who continually demands more of our attention. I'm talking about the Captain. In true rock reported/reviewer formation I'm forever turning the leaves left behind by Bangs - Lester Bangs, that is. In fact, I was stirred to post this almost non-existent Beefheart record based on a review Bangs wrote for it - I'll quote him throughout in case your unfamiliar with him. For some unknown reason this record is commercially-virtually unavailable. It was pressed to CD somewhere back in time but never got a second pressing - and on vinyl, well, if you seek it out you can own it but surely it won't be cheap. Now - this isn't because the record is subpar by any means, quite the contrary this is The Captain's absolute finest moment (why isn't it available?!?). What exactly makes it the best is that it's born from the same themes and sounds which led to Trout Mask Replica, yet it is more universal. It doesn't leave a newcomer with the sense that a joke has played on them. It doesn't alienate. It is Captain Beefheart at his artistic peak.
He's what Bangs had to say about this record:
"Beefheart may be verbally obtuse and look like a trasher of everything "beautiful" (or euphonious) in centuries of Western musical tradition, but what he's really doing is creating a whole new musical vocabulary out of the ashes and dead air left by a crumbling empire of exhausted styles."
"Leaving in the dust both post-Dylan "poetic" pretensions and the primitive approach which too often mistakes simplemindedness for simplicity, Cap's lines are magic flashfloods of free-association that somehow never get murky, strange jewel-like clusters of images, hilarious little vignettes from the lives of raffish louts and juicy mamas, half-muddled mamma's in coveralls and zoot suits."
In short, Bangs thought this album was not only the next step in The Captain's career but the next step in R'n'R - much in the same way Ayler pushed Jazz forward and The Velvets birthed Punk. I agree.

SM + The Jicks - Some B-Sides

This post is going up to signal the unofficial release of the new Jicks record - it's out there you just need to know where to look. It's very good - but be sure to buy it when it comes out. Here's what's included in this collection:

Good Kids Eggs / Wow Ass Jeans / Blue Rash Intact / Polish Mule / Open and Shut Cases / Malay Masaker / Unheard Music / Memory Pull / Johnny One Take / For You / Verlange / Need Your Love / Gravity Bong / I Want Candy / Will You Dare / Mets to Infinity / Sin Taxi / Keep The Faith / That's What Mama Said / Alien Boy / Fractions & Feelings / Old Jerry / Shake It Around / Dynamic Calories / Hey Jude - Sympathy for the Devil / Champagne Supernova - Creep

Enjoy it!

My Human Gets Me Blues

2008-01-14T09:54:00.001-05:00

Jonny Greenwood - Bodysong

Much the same as when Wes Anderson's Darjeeling Limited prompted me to post the Kinks Lola vs. The Powerman - P.T. Anderson's There Will Be Blood brings me to post Jonny Greenwood's Bodysong. I guess this could also be seen as a nod to Radiohead (congrats to them on charting a No. 1 record even after giving it away for free) - but in truth this post is motivated by Greenwood's work for the P.T.A. picture. If you haven't seen the movie yet - Please do. I realize that it isn't playing everywhere - it isn't the type of film to be playing at a theater near you, as there's no money in a picture like this. It's expansive, meditative, and it's driven by a character you know you shouldn't love as much as you might - drive as far as you must to see it ... it will be worth it.
Now, on to Bodysong. This film you don't need to see. Of course, you're entitled to see it if you'd like to see what the genesis for this record was but I don't think it is necessary. It's another look at humanity in the vein of Koyaanisqatsi/Baraka/etc. Nothing new aside from this fantastic score. But I recommend you do this with the soundtrack instead - Allot yourself enough time to hear the whole record and go off on a walk through town / ride the train / people watch in a busy spot. The result will be something akin to having just landed on this planet and wondering about trying to figure out what goes on here. It's a fascinating ride. The record works at home too, but for optimal fun I suggest the exercise above. Oh one more thing about this record - it reveals the working genius in Radiohead.

Mississippi John Hurt - Last Sessions

As I've said in the past - I realize how tough it is to recommend the Blues to someone who doesn't already enjoy the Blues - but sometimes a there's a man - a musician so capable of speaking directly to the heart of each listener that the question of whether or not passing that music along becomes a moral dilemma. I'm passing it along to you - do with it as you please - but know this: there might not be a cleaner sounding guitar in Delta, nor a more likable (and somehow light and fun) Blues voice in all of the Blues ever laid to tape. Mississippi John hurt is another of those Blues musicians (like Son House) who was chased down by someone looking to make their music more accessible (you see, there is a history of sharing only the greatest music around the world). This recording was made in the '66, Mississippi hadn't recorded an album since 1928. Doesn't change a thing however, when found he was not only willing to record but could still sing and play as he had done almost 40 years before.
Take a listen to something new every now and then - you might gain a new perspective on life.

A Real Life Brainiac

2008-01-06T10:59:00.000-05:00

Brainiac - Hissing Prigs in Static Couture

Brainiac delivers a psychotic sonic freak-out that no other band in the 90's was able to achieve. Of course, there were some left-field noise makers in the 90's but who amongst them was able to create an art-rock attack record that was palatable to the general listening audience? No One Else. Brainiac stands alone as the only band I can think of who was able to make a weird record that you don't have to pass to someone while saying "No, really give it a chance - it'll grow on you." Think of the Butthole Surfers - could you give anyone a copy of "Hairway to Steven" without requesting that they listen with an open mind AND let it play through? Ween is another. These are examples of bands you need to sell - recommending Brainiac to a friend goes like this - "Here take a listen let me know what you think." Wow! See how easy that went - the record does all the work, it sells itself.

Now, I say to you "Take a listen to this album and let me know what you think."

Magazine - Real Life

Magazine's Real Life is what happened when mindful punks realized that their scene was devouring itself faster then it was evolving and jumped ship. Howard Devoto is that mindful punk. Devoto left The Buzzcocks to write new material with new bandmates and in this one move Devoto helped move punk into its next phase - I won't define that next phase by name but I'll say that this record is equal parts Punk/Goth/New Wave/Goth/Art-House Avant-Garde. The guitar work is akin to solar flares, while the Keys recall an Italian Circus at times. Devoto sings like a punk with a renewed sense of snideness - as though he knows he's just left every one of his contemporaries behind him and risen to heights yet unexplored. There are songs on here which lean heavier on one aspect of their sound then others but none more beautiful then "The Light Pours Out of Me" - which is almost Goth - but fret not "Shot by Both Sides" is almost Punk. Enjoy the record, if you've never heard it I envy your coming experience.

Minimalist Overdubs

2007-12-30T15:02:00.000-05:00

The 39 Clocks - Pain It Dark

J.G. 39 (aka - Genius Nr. 17) and C.H. 39 (aka - Zero Jack) are The 39 Clocks. Any drummer will do, but they could do without the Velvet Underground comparison that has followed them since this records release in 1981. Straight out of Germany The 39 Clocks have produced an album that accurately represents the European Post-Punk scene -the use of horns seems to be a signature of the time - but when the horns are silenced The 39 Clocks play extremely minimalistic music which they sing-speak over top of. Don't worry though this is not a boring record - these guys are aesthetic warriors they play only the most appropriate sounds at exactly the right moment. If you aren't familiar with German music this might take a moment to acclimate to but if you were raised on a healthy diet of Can, Ash Ra Tempel, etc. this should come on like second nature even though it sounds nothing like those acts and lacks any extended krautrock jams. If you imagine The Fall as German and hooked on sedatives you might get close to the sound of The 39 Clocks - but I suggest just taking a listen, as your imaginative powers might be week at this year's end.

J-Dilla - The Shining

If The 39 Clocks are too minimal for you then turn your ears toward J-Dilla. His beats are always the most lush and textural beats known in the hip-hop scene. What makes this album special is that the driving force of the records is Stanley Kubrick's The Shining. Clips from the film run over and under/in and out of every track while only the finest rappers work the track to its fullest potential. This is not a frightening record, Dilla's focus is to produce the greatest possible tracks -not to recreate The Shining in hip-hop beats (though I'm sure he could have if he wanted to. Sadly, Dilla passed away in 2006 at age 32 after three years of fighting to live and fighting to record as much as he could create in what little time he knew he had left. In all honesty this is not Dilla's greatest achievement -that would be his full length record Donuts - but surely this album will help accustom those who don't know Dilla to what it is he does best, and that's push hip-hop forward with every release.

Running Down the Voodoo

2007-12-23T13:02:00.000-05:00

Clinic - Internal Wrangler

Trance inducing and sometimes downright evil, Clinic's first release is the closest they've ever come to recording pure voodoo. Most of us heard the "Walking With Thee" single from 2002, and while it was a very exciting single most people I knew were disappointed by the album - then again those very same people were bummed by Blur's self-titled record because every song didn't sound like "Song 2." Most of this record chugs along like so many distorted garage tunes replete with indecipherable lyrics and droning organs - remember the voice is simply another instrument and should always be used to craft the best possible song not the clearest "message."
What makes this album fun is that in some sense the record spins like a R'n'R 101 class taught by a hip young professor - Surf-rock/Garage-rock/The Velvets/The Beatles/ and the tiniest hint of Motown crossed with The Beach Boys (2nd Foot Stomp) are all explored by the band on this one release. This really is an eclectic record that I am willing to bet most of you readers overlooked. Let me know if you listen and let me know if you enjoyed it.

Smegma - "Pigs for Lepers"

The trouble with the weird/ left-field/ too-cool-for- the-room/ hip bands of today is that they want you to believe they are the original weird sound - that they've come up with something so special and new that they not only deserve your respect (and money) but that you should bow to them, as they've risen above you.
Well, these new acts have not actually transcended to the hip realm exclusive to sonic pioneers, but have simply been rooting through the history of weird sound looking for an influence the everyday listener wouldn't recognize.

I give you the root of all new weird music. Smegma ... the band that every psychfolk/weird noise outfit out there secretly aspires to be. I'm not going to try and explain the sound - you're either adventurous enough to try new music or you're on the hunt for standard fare. This music is the pinnacle of experimental, yet it is completely listenable. Try something new - you just might like it.

Two Live Lads

2007-12-20T07:03:00.000-05:00

Elvis Costello & The Attractions

Outstanding audio isn’t the only reason to take a listen to this 1978 show – the audio is so clear, in fact, you can make out the bass lines – a rare treat with live records. The first full minute of (I Don’t Want to Go to) Chelsea was what did me in – I won’t spoil it for you but it was my highlight... it’s nothing to fantastic I just really enjoyed him drawing out the intro. The real King of R’n’R, Elvis Costello opens with Mystery Dance – the song that (in my opinion) dethroned that ‘other’ Elvis and derailed the Mystery Train– the energy is apparent in the show opener and doesn’t wane once … even the slower tunes (Watching the Detectives) just works to showcase Costello’s versatility. What I really heightens this recording is that the audience is real enthused to be there because it validates Costello as a true R’n’R force – Why? … because he was marketed as a punk but the crowd is just as pleased to hear Radio, Radio as they are Little Triggers. Like a true showman, Elvis closes with Pump it Up tossing in a few proper shout-outs and adding a couple “ba-ba-bap-ba’s” as he builds up to the finale. Dig this one – it’s well worth your time.

Van Morrison – At the Fillmore West 1970

I never like to hype a recording based on an artists age but Van Morrison is one performer who I always feel compelled to age check. He recorded the out of sight Astral Weeks at age 23 and recorded this show at age 25 just after the release of Moondance. It’s hard to believe because when Van sings, and not just when he sings –but what he sings is all so much older then he is … and I don’t think I’m talking about the content but the intonation. Van sings as if he had known the most mystic and infinite love and it changed him - left him enlightened and broken hearted –destroyed– left to try for the rest of his life to recreate the experience in song. Goddamn – Cyprus Avenue. What can I say? The audio is top of the pops, as it was recorded for FM radio. He was touring for Moondance which is clear once you listen to it. And it's an essential piece of the Van Morrison legend. Do you love Van? Then you can't pass on this. If you’re unsure, go hunt down a copy of Astral Weeks, after absorbing that look for Moondance. Finally, come back to get to know the man live.

The tracklist is found on "Van Morrison Rocks His Gypsy Soul" - tracks 1-12

Open Up Another Case of the Punks

2007-12-14T10:39:00.000-05:00

John Cale – Fear

If you’re a fan of Cale due to his prominence in The Velvet Underground, yet have never heard his solo records … you’ll be surprised by this record – either pleasantly surprised or simply shocked by what you find. It is the most subtle album I have ever heard – with two exceptions: The title track starts off like a Warren Zevon tune but in its final moments disintegrates into screaming and cacophonous noise. The other exception is “Gun”, which rolls out strong with sonic repetition climbing sideways until it reaches the multi-filtered Eno styled guitar solo.
Beyond these ‘rock’ highlights the rest of the album is best categorized as extremely subversive punk rock. Cale plays and sings whatever he wants – “The Man Who Couldn’t Afford to Orgy” is reminiscent of a crooked Beach Boys doo-wop number that lulls on about pity. Or take “Buffalo Ballet”, a short history of a town that is created and killed by industrial advancements – a love letter to the great western plains, really. Not what you’d expect from a guy who played on “Sister Ray” – which is why I think you need to hear it. The whole album is comprised of discordant/jarringly pretty songs. If this isn’t punk – then punk never happened. If you’ve ever wondered about Cale then start here.
Trust me.
And listen to it twice.

The Presidents of the United States of America – Video Killed the Radio Star 3/29/96

Having recently been told I’m ‘running on all cylinders’ by a certain, KingPossum – I fear that this part of the post won’t be so well received. I have always been a huge fan of PUSA … I can’t explain it - I have every record and absolutely adore 95% of their catalogue. Let me know if any of you feel the same way. It’s very rare to find people who stuck with the band this long –but I’m always interested to find more fans. Here goes:
A surprisingly thick sound, an immense amount of crowd interaction, call and response between the two front-men, a ton more improvisational guitar parts/vocals AND a set that opens with The Stooges “TV Eye” makes this show an absolutely indispensable artifact. For future generations coming in contact with this text for the for first time – it reads: This is what the last truly great showmen sounded like on stage – they had more fun then any other band of their day (they didn’t take themselves too seriously amidst all that “I hate myself and my parents and the razor is never out of reach” era of music) and they unleashed an energizing force on their audience so strong that to listen to this recording you can’t help but crank the volume to 11 and Kick Out the Jams with them.
I guess this one might be for fans only but I really feel that anyone who enjoys just hearing a well executed live show might want to listen in. Find the track listing here.

Looking for More Music?

2007-12-11T18:44:00.000-05:00

Another blog has sprouted in the blogosphere - Music is a Better Noise was born last night to a friend and it's a healthy little niche blog. The niche - women in music. From what I understand the blog will cover all genres so long as the album is the result of a woman's creativity. The first post features X-Ray Spex and Essential Logic - both very exciting albums and I think a great look at things to come. So, please join me in wishing this new blog well - stop over have a look and leave a comment. Comments are a bloggers food -lets help get this one going. Thanks for your support!

The working link is listed on the left there - under Places To See.

Sex Appeal vs. Commercial Appeal

2007-12-09T19:15:00.000-05:00

Mink DeVille - Cabretta

The ever-soulful 'Punk', Mink DeVille, only ever caught my ear because I thought he sounded like Lou Reed - only he sounded like he was doing Lou better then Lou does himself. The track was "Spanish Stroll" and it's the only track you'll find on here where Mink sounds like Lou. However, the two do share a similar vibe in that Mink's brand of R'n'R is at times tough (chorus of "Venus of Avenue D") and other times very 60's soul (all of "Can't Do Without It"). So, Mink is his own man - his style is quite peculiar in that there is a very palpable 70's rock influence (I mean this to say 70's rock beyond punk - think 70-'s radio - "Gunslinger" in particular), but at the same time Mink easily finds his way into a Harlem streetlight late night serenade - real tender type-love songs. "It's love that treats me so bad" Mink sings just before a sax solo blows through the bridge back into the heavy souled chorus. Cabretta is Mink's first album and it certainly sets him on the path he'd follow most of his career -yet this album is his least refined. The tone shifts a bit much - yet everything fits just fine ... really the trouble is the sequencing - all the songs are great. Take a listen if you're in the market for Something refreshing. Something sexy. Something that will make a man feel like a man and woman feel like a woman. Mink DeVille will steal your heart and leave your gold.

X - More Fun in the New World

If you know the story of X -then you know that the husband and wife team of John Doe and Exene Cervenka were forever at odds with each other. True love takes work, too. This story is hard to believe when listening to this record, however. The duo never sounds more together then they do on this recording. If you don't believe me then just take a listen to "I Must Not Think Bad Thoughts" - the two of them display a give-and-take unknown in their history. Doe's guitar work is even more polished than on prior records, but this isn't to say they were no longer 'punks'. True - the band was attempting to move toward something a bit more marketable but to all those who turn their backs on X after the punk influenced "Los Angeles" should take a moment to reflect on just how different X has always been in comparison to traditional punk bands. X was always more sophisticated then their contemporaries - but this was probably due to the fact that there was a couple in the band and they were facing real 'grown-up' problems. Life can be imposing sometimes. Anyway, if you want to argue the value of X's punk-ness ... listen to True Love pt. 2 ... then comment. I regard "More Fun in the New World" to be X's greatest achievement. It's both radio-friendly and unconventional for radio. Try "Devil Doll" - "I Must Not Think Bad Thoughts" - "True Love pt. 2" - or - "The New World"

Live Births - Post Rock & Hip Hop

2007-12-05T17:39:00.000-05:00

Liquid Liquid - S/T

This was requested pretty often when I first started running The Psycho Mafia. I didn't post it because I felt that every blog out there had it up at the time. In the event that you didn't find it then/ didn't know you wanted it until now/ or are so faithful a reader that you never look beyond here - I give you Liquid Liquid.
If you're unfamiliar with this act then all you need to know is that they are generally considered to be Electro-Punk the same as Konk and Pigbag (both featured in the past). The only song I think you'll recognize on here -if you've never heard the band - is "Cavern". Hmm .. that song doesn't ring a bell, huh? Sing the hook to "White Lines" by Grandmaster Flash. That's "Cavern".
In comparison to Konk and Pigbag - This stuff is much more laid back. Still very dance-able stuff but they are obviously more concerned with making their art, then with making your party. What am I saying, Liquid Liquid needs to be reclassified - they are sometimes closer to LiLiPuT (see - Lock Grove out) then Konk / yet, get closer to tribalism then Pigbag (see - Push).
One last attempt to win your ears - if you consider yourself to be fluent in post-rock then you absolutely must hear this. While it's playing in the backdrop of your busy day try for a moment to think about the state of post-rock today - Could we have gotten here without Liquid Liquid? More at 11.

Rrose Sélavy presents A Sugar Hill Records Sampler

Perhaps it was Nas demanding that we all pay a little more attention to the history of hip-hop, or it could have been that I recently watched "Wild Style" and became sentimental for an era I was not aware of at its inception or it could have been the fact that I recently heard some people on the radio saying early hip-hop was all novelty - but I really think it all comes down to a conversation I had this weekend over lunch about whether or not people are really aware of the history of hip-hop. I believe there isn't enough people -who weren't there for the music at the start - who care to go back and listen to the roots of the music. Not in the same way that all R'n'R types know the Velvet Underground (a band that you had to be there to know or discover by reading about music).
My concern is, and I think this was a point of Nas', if we don't get back to the roots of hip-hop, then the movement will eat itself alive. New acts cannot continually be born in the wake of the latest fad. But, I'm going to stop here because I don't want to lecture you guys on the seeming ill-fated trajectory of hip-hop.
Instead- here's a mix of mt favorite songs from The Sugar Hill Records Story box set. You'll here where Busta Rhymes found a sample, as well as the Beastie Boys, and the Tom Tom Club - and others. Just have some fun. I assure you I've only included real winners, but I did not include "Rapper's Delight" - that song is dead to me. What you'll find inside is pure party music for bad breakers and hip-hoppers.

Elmore and Del

2007-11-30T20:31:00.000-05:00

Elmore James - Dust My Broom

More blues .. it is too soon for another blues post? I couldn't help it. I was reading about Elvis and it occurred to me that his greatest accomplishment in the history of music was pushing all the Black recording artists out of the Memphis market and up to Chicago. Now, this might sound crazy but let me go on. Before Elvis had his first hit at Sun Records with Mr. Sam Phillips, Sun was in the business of recording Black artists -see, Mr. Phillips had a penchant for recording real R&B even though he wasn't making much money doing it. There was no money because those records weren't played on Rock radio, unless of course they were covered by the acceptable White artists. So, before Elvis recorded at Sun, it was known as the place where Howlin' Wolf, James Cotton and Elmore James, amongst others, had been recording. The financial success that Sun Records experienced due to Elvis recording a few hits there caused Mr. Phillips to reconsider his passion for real R&B - needless to say he dropped all his Black artists and focused solely on White artists. The result was two-fold -1st- Sun attracted the likes of Carl Perkins, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Johnny Cash (not so bad) -2nd- the barren market for Black artists sent all the local bluesmen up North to Chicago where they hooked up with the Chicago bar blues scene led by Muddy Waters ... blues as we know it today wouldn't be without this migration. So, we get to Elmore James, one of those very migrants who landed in Chicago - the haven for Black artists trying to make a living in the blues. If you aren't familiar with what Chicago bar blues sounds like let me say this: The style is regarded for being loud and heavily amplified stomping blues that induces hollering. Mr. James can be heard hollering his heart out on "So Unkind", "Anna Lee", "Standing at the Crossroads" and these are just some of the stand out tracks. If Elmore James gets you shaking, considering looking into Chess Records - it's where all the hip-cats were signed. Oh, and remember to thank Elvis.

Del Tha Funkee Homosapien - No Need for Alarm (1993)

Long before everyone caught on to Del with his stellar Deltron 3030 album - the truly hip were aware of the most interesting rapper not affiliated with De La or Tribe - Del tha Funkee Homosapien. A true artist, Del should instantly catch you off guard based on his delivery alone. Del's flow is unlike any other rapper's - I can't say if he's smoother or more clever then most but anyone familiar with hip-hop's history will acknowledge Del as a stand-out rapper (like KRS-One without all the preaching). It's as though you can hear Del bob-and-weave as he lays his tracks down. This album consists of a number of battle-raps .. as in, he calls out weak rappers and champions himself -but that's the history of hip-hop (and break-dancing). Sadly, some rappers never got past this and therefore never developed as artists (these folks control the airwaves today). Del clearly moved on and stayed on top of his game (if you haven't heard Deltron 3030 PLEASE go search it out - it an album Del recorded with Dan the Automator and Kid Koala wherein he raps about surviving in a post-apocalyptic world of cyber-hackers and intergalactic rap battles -phenomenal stuff). So, anyway this post is for those who don't know Del already / those who do but are looking for a trip back in time with a strong old school record / and for appreciate hip-hop with some real artistic value. "Miles to Go" "Check it Ooout" and "Wrong Place" are the tracks to check out if you're not the type to play the record straight through on the first go round.

If You Like "A" Then You'll Love "B"...

2007-11-28T19:11:00.000-05:00

Big Blood - Strange Maine 11.04.06

Has there ever been an "If you like, then you'll love..." that was successful in your life? I know it never works in those mega-chain stores because they're in the business of pushing new records -not the business of preserving the historic fabric of a genre that made the newest records. For example -I remember one for Weezer's Blue album that suggested an Offspring record (how does that work?). A honest shop keeper will tell you to go listen to The Feelies if you like Weezer -if this applies to you -then by all means go find "Crazy Rhythms" by The Feelies (at least look at the cover art!) Being an honest shop-keeper I'd like to share Big Blood with you. By you, I mean anyone who really believes that Animal Collective is the greatest "psych-folk" outfit ever to grace the earth. I don't happen to feel this way -though I do at times enjoy "Sung Tongs" I must say I have to really make an effort to not only put the record on but also to leave it on. I think it lacks soul sometimes -but that's an opinion ... do share yours.
Big Blood will absolutely take some attention and time for you to appreciate it. My introduction to them was "A Quiet Lousy Roar" which I fell in love with instantly -the album took a few listens but each time there was another influence to recognize and more textural facets to smile about. The music of Big Blood is warm -warm in the sense that music made near the ocean in Maine by a couple who play music while their newborn is sleeping is a warm sentiment -this sentiment is also the truth. The duo of Caleb Mulkerin and Colleen Kinsella (formerly of Cerberus Shoal) have been releasing homemade CD-Rs of absolute magic for at least a year now. The album will require you to sit through the first full minute or so -as they aren't the most welcoming introductory sounds, but I promise to anyone who identifies themselves as fans of "psych-folk" type Animal Collective music -You too will fall in love with Big Blood. If you're unsure about using up a download on a band as unknown as Big Blood is then Please go to Myspace and listen to "A Quiet Lousy Roar." If that song doesn't do it -forget I ever mentioned them.

Hose - Hose EP

If you like Flipper, then you'll love Hose. Why? Well because they sound very similar yet are from the opposite coast. I wonder did Hose hear Flipper -or did the idea for the art-core sound just exist in the air above the unsuspecting hands that would eventually reach out for something? Remember that in the early 80's when both bands were starting there was no internet, so unless some other NYU student brought a Flipper 7" from California and shared it with the Hose guys ... but then again back then NYU wasn't the NYU that it is today. Rich kids back then had better schools to attend as NYU was considered easy to get in to then -so, fewer people were traveling the country to go there. What am I leaving out? Well, basically I'm neglecting to mention everything mentioned on the very few pages that mention Hose -they all say the same thing ... Rick Rubin/ an Electrolux vacuum was played off-stage/ mosh-pits that were pre-mosh-pits. You'll see it all if you look for it. What I'll close with here is - if you like Flipper, then try Hose. You'll get to hear "You Sexy Thang" and "Super Freak" done in "art-core" fashion. The music is thick and aggressive. It's also pure R'n'R. Take a time out and listen to something you haven't heard yet.

A return to what's important

2007-11-24T19:55:00.000-05:00

Albert Ayler - Bells
Now, I'm well aware of the fact the Bells is often sold on CD coupled with Prophecy, as the two live shows have in some way established Ayler's mythologized musical direction. The reason I'm only offering Bells is because there is a phenomenal Ayler box-set (Holy Ghost)that you can chase down if you really dig the sound he makes on Bells. If you aren't ready for the box straight out of the gate then you'll have every reason - in fact, there should be within you a desire to hear more and when you do get your hands on a copy of Bells/Prophecy you'll be blown away by Prophecy and pleased as pineapple you spent your hard earned money on such a fine recording. The Ayler sound is not only regarded as having an influence on later Trane but also on early Pharoh Sanders -But- legend has it the Peter Laughtner and Dave Thomas (you know, the gents from Pere Ubu) met on account of this album.
I can't say anymore than what is written on the CD when you go buy it -as you should being the proper music fans you are -so here it is:

As Dan Morganstein wrote in Downbeat, July 15, 1965 - "whatever one's reaction to this music, there can be little doubt that it contained the spirit of jazz. some may dismiss it as untutored, primitive, or merely grotesque, but it certainly has the courage of its convictions."

Sun City Girls - Def in Italy

This band is harder to write about then any other I've posted before - this is due entirely to the fact that the Sun City Girls were wholly unknown to me prior to comment left by a loyal reader who mentioned a longing to hear the band. So, I tracked them down and have learned a few things about them. Firstly, everything I have been able to find is transferred from cassettes (Amazon carries 6 of of their 30+ releases). Secondly, the band contains no girls -all guys.

So, Def in Italy -being from a cassette is posted in two tracks -Side 1 and Side 2. Side 2 contains a cover of Spirit in the Sky that can't be beat, unless of course the sound were better (this is a live show- side 1- and a collection of live tunes -side 2). What does the band sound like - you always want to know that before you download it, don't you. There is a great deal of meandering guitar work, not too much noodling -this isn't a Santana record- but a lot of loose direction type of playing ... how's trance inducing for a description? Probably inaccurate. Anyway- it's an interesting listen if you can commit to it. This is trouble most of time though isn't it -committing to a record in this era of everything all at once- give it to me now - I want to get the big picture straight off or I'm moving on. Try not to move on so quick. Let Side 1 play through then make you own decision. I haven't listened enough to give you a proper description -so, listen yourself and tell me what you think. I know at least one reader has an interest and that's good enough for me. Enjoy it.

P.S. - 7:17 into Side 1 is my favorite tune - it's what sold me on the Sun City Girls (yeah, I'm sold on them)

Edit- Bonus SCG in the links!

The Blues Aren't Exactly Melancholy

2007-11-13T20:59:00.000-05:00

Sonny Boy Williamson II - Nine Below Zero

First - let me say I know how hard it is for some people to take a blues recommendation. We all have our own ideas about the right voice, the right harp playing, the right tone, the right tempo -and it usually goes back to the first time the blues captured your attention. You can spend a lifetime chasin' down that sound (I was trapped in the Mississippi Delta for years) -those first few gruff utterances, or first harmonica player that made you reconsider your dream of playing R'n'R. So, when I pass a blues record on to someone I do it with the sole intent of helping them get back a portion of that feeling ... because I truly believe that people who aren't into the blues tend to live by that first mythical encounter they remember. Funny thing is, that memory is usually as vague as they think it's vivid -this is why I'm careful with my recommendations.

Second - this record will appease all of your blues appetites. Sonny Boy Williamson, who shares no relation to "The Original Sonny Boy Williamson" (some say Sonny Boy II stole the name to capitalize on Sonny Boy I's career) came up in Arkansas by way of Mississippi. His blues will shake your soul, his harp will mesmerize you, and his record will leave you wondering how much is there you don't know about the blues. I can't really define the record beyond the picture I've written above and my promise that you'll enjoy this record as if your own relative created it.

Third, this record reminds me of why I wanted to start a blog in the first place. To share music that absolutely kills me with a friend who moved from NY to FL. No longer close enough to lend a record overnight -this blog facilitates my desire to share those records that demand attention from friends who know good music no matter how near or far. Thankfully, I have more readers then this one friend and I'm grateful to be sharing with folks worldwide.

Smashing Pumpkins - Machina II/ Friends and Enemies of Modern Music

So - if Billy Corgan had his way (and in some sense he did) this would have been the last great Pumkpins album. If you're a fan of Mr. Corgan and the collection of players he credits with playing music he not only writes but in some cases plays on the albums -you should know this collection of tunes. If not then you're in for a treat because this album is better than Adore and Machina (Did you like these records?). I don't know if I'd call this record a return to form because I don't think it's possible for Corgan, as an artist, to recapture whatever he happened to channel on Mellon Collie and The Infinite Sadness ...how dramatic a title... in any case, I would say that the effort and energy on this record makes up for the lack that Corgan experienced on his two prior records.

If you don't know how you missed out on this or where it came from let me share a little back-story with you. The word on the street has always followed a line about how Billy Corgan approached the record label (Virgin) with his idea for another double album -yet, due to Adore's poor sales the label was not willing to risk the money on Corgan. So, he released Machina as a single album hoping his sales would improve and thus allow him to release the second half - this wasn't the case and Virgin refused to put out Machina II. So, how did we get it. Billy decided that if it was his will to have his record out there he'd have to do it himself. Pressing only 25 vinyl copies of the record, Billy Corgan issued them to 25 citizens with the only instruction being share this with the world. I guess he did get his way.

This really is an indispensable Smashing Pumpkins record. Surely, any fan who has not yet heard it will regard the album as a time machine -back to an era when the Pumpkins were a reason to enter a record shop.

Oh, I almost forgot - does this make Billy Corgan the first big act to release a record for free?

Touch Me, I'm Sick

2007-11-09T16:05:00.000-05:00

Talking Heads - CBS Demos

Prior to our formal introduction to the wiry robot with the clipped phrasings and his band of funk all stars -the Talking Heads were busy getting ready for that day when they'd meet the world with the release of '77. Before they could go out - the troop needed to finalize their vision, find the sound, and help Mr. David Byrne loosen up. The sound here is recognizably faster on most tracks and a large portion of the songs have alternate lyrics. Well - I guess I should clarify before you all bum rush the link - you will know most of the verses in each song but there will be surprise lines to get excited about. The phrasings are also different in many spots - most notably the "fa fa fa's" in Psycho Killer - but my favorite alternate is "I look out the window and I call that education" which you'll hear in "With Our Love". The bass track is a little too present in this mix but after a few tracks you'll be so deep into the sound that everything will mesh for you. Of course this is one for the fans ... if you don't already know these songs you would surely benefits more from an actual release - in fact, if you aren't familiar with songs but have an interest in the heads my advice to you is start at the beginning with '77 and follow the band chronologically until you can't stand their sound/direction anymore - this usually happens around "Little Creatures" but it's a really great run to that moment.

Half Japanese - The Band That Would be King

42 songs from a band fronted by a voice that rivals Dave Thomas - Joe Jack Talcum - and - Billy Corgan for most unbearable. That is of course if you don't like the bands their in. Those of us who love these voices have a distinct advantage over our counterparts - we have more music to listen to. Half Japanese are pioneers of something -but of what I'm unsure. The Fair brothers (Jad and David) are self taught musicians and approach music from a very unconventional place -the result is much less The Shaggs (thankfully - I don't know who decided liking them is hip but I defy you to listen to The Shaggs as anything other than a sociology experiment) and closer to punk rock. It seems I am always returning to the idea that real punks do not make music of an overtly political nature (i.e. - The Clash/ Sex Pistols/ etc.) but that they make music which challenges the very concept of making music (see - Pere Ubu / Lydia Lunch/ VU/ Captain Beefheart). I guess this sort of a review of Half Japanese - but you should get the picture - the album is punk without all the punk trappings. Back in 1989 this album was released - but the brothers Fair had been making music since the mid-70's. Perhaps, they're the original lo-fi cool kids. Either way they are the cool kids. The music they make is completely free from any standard conventions. Songs will end before you want them to, lyrics can be straight stories, the genre can shift at any point in the record -Yet- the record acts as one coherent statement. If you need to know more about Half Japanese -look them up somewhere. If you want to take a chance on something I promise you'll enjoy - then you've come to the right place and I'm happy to have you.
Enjoy.

Masculine/Feminine

2007-11-04T09:39:00.000-05:00

Battles - B Ep

By now everyone is coming around on Battles, sadly their latest effort leaves one longing for the past they weren't hip enough to be around for. If you haven't been introduced yet, let me do it now because they are very good at what they do and rarely leave a new listener unimpressed. Electronic, drum heavy and experimental -the gents who comprise Battles are very open minded yet never wander off into meandering electronic jams. There is always a very distinct sense of direction, of timing, and most importantly -of composition. Battles is band of musicians -not a collective of computer nerds trying their hand at stumbling into something wonderful. This mini-review will have to suffice as I am very sick of late and barely have the energy to put this together. I have queued up a few really great posts for my triumphant return to health -so stay tuned my post frequency will be returning to its steady 2 per week formula soon.

Dosh - Pure Trash

Most people have not come around on Dosh because most people don't know how he is. The best way to find out who he is would be to take a listen to this record and post your iwn thoughts on it -thus helping others and helping me to not have to explain an unknown act from what feels like my deathbed. I'll say this before retiring - Dish makes up the feminine half of this double electronic post -his music is very intelligent, textural, and generally soft. Not fluff, but gentle. Sometimes glitchy, like MúM -yet sometimes leaning closer to the sounds of Four Tet. If you enjoy electronic music you should get to know Dosh. I wish I could say more since I expect many will be unfamiliar with him but hopefully some others can share their thoughts in the comments section. I hope you've all been enjoying this little electronic kick I've been on - I'll be moving on soon.

Enjoy.

Eclectic and Eccentric

2007-10-28T11:42:00.000-04:00

MúM - Yesterday Was Dramatic Today is OK

MúM is an electronic glitch outfit from Iceland who inspire childlike wonder with just about every track on this album. Each song sounds like a discovery only a child could make -such as discovering snow as it drifts from above on an unusually sunny day. Or the opening of an ancient trunk found stowed away in a grandparent's attic which reveals a picture of some distant unknowable era. This probably has much to do with the fact that this album was made in 2000 when the band was just out of High School (well, the Icelandic equivalent anyway). Also, because for MúM making this music was a process of discovery -Gunnar and Örvar (the male parts of MúM) were already familiar with making electronic/rock music but when they teamed up with twin sisters Gyoa and Kristín (who were classically trained) the possibilities were undefined. The result of this gathering is beautiful. I don't know if I've used (potentially over-used) this word yet -I don't think I've used it all so it's still a valid adjective. It truly is beautiful. Ringing of wonder -of fascination -of warm breezes -of falling leaves -of finding a private letter lying on the sidewalk - if you've any interest in electronic music (not IDM -I don't acknowledge it as music proper) you must have a place for MúM. Remember the album is 7 years old -this sound had not yet been beat into the ground when it was released -and while MúM has since left this sound behind for their darker new sound this album maintains all the creative energy that made it possible.

If you're the type that skips around a record, then try:
Smell Memory
The Ballad of Broken Birdie Records
I'm 9 Today

Pere Ubu - Terminal Tower

If you know Pere Ubu then there's a good chance you know the songs that make up this collection B-Sides and rarities -Final Solution, 30 Seconds Over Tokyo, and Heart of Darkness were the first three Ubu Songs I ever heard ... and there was no way I could have been ready for them. Hailing from Cleveland (yes -people make art in those remote states in from the coasts) Pere Ubu is a punk band from an era when punk was about deconstruction preconceptions about music -what makes them punk is what makes Lydia Lunch/The Talking Heads/ Television/ Patti Smith/ and / Richard Hell punks -they follow their own lead and make the music they want to make -not the music they think will sell or at least garner them some fancy attention. People will not listen to Ubu to appear hip because it isn't possible. If the songs on this collection don't strike you as pure genius from the get-go then you're not going to enjoy listening to it. Dave Thomas has an unusual yelping voice (Untitled -The Modern Dance) -the music is untraditional (Cloud) - and the subject matter rages from the erudite (Heart of Darkness) to the existential (My Dark Ages).
If you're new to Ubu this is a great place to start - if you just want to pick up some singles and alternate takes this is a great collection. The absolute highlight is the live version of Humor Me. Again -You'll either fall completely in love with Pere Ubu or you'll stop trusting my picks after this one.

PS - If you've got any interest in Cleveland's punk scene Spending Loud Night (found in my links) is offering The Mirrors / The Styrenes / and / The Electric Eels. Very good stuff!

Improv is the Spirit

2007-10-24T19:05:00.000-04:00

Herbie Hancock/Foday Musa Suso - Jazz Africa

Now I know that the last Jazz post didn't go over so well with you guys but this one has to be shared and I know you haven't heard it -so, please give it a chance.

Who other then Herbie Hancock could get away with fusing his own 80's Jazz/Funk sound with traditional West African Folk? ... No one. Recorded as part of live Jazz series in Los Angeles in 1987, Jazz Africa is an astounding live recording that delivers as much energy as it does wonderment. There are sounds you've never heard coming from instruments you probably aren't familiar with and the lyrics -when they break in after extended improvisational jams -are sung in an African dialect (I'd tell you which if I knew). Presumably, the singing is done by Foday Musa Suso of Gambia, who Hancock sought out for this collaboration, as he is regarded as being the premier Kora player. While the first and last tracks showcase a more relaxed sound and really help to bring you in and then out of the record - it's the two middle tracks that really make this album essential. Those two tracks make you wonder how any live jazz audience could sit down and watch a band play -you will feel as though your doing yourself a disservice if you don't get up and let the music possess you. Everyone on the record really got it together for the performance -you'll have to keep an ear out for the percussionists (how many there are I'm not sure) because they improv a great deal and since you can't help but focus on Herbie's keys and Foday's voice and Kora you'll have to try to listen for the drummers. And goddamn if that African violin isn't the most fascinating sound on the record (I wish I could make out what he calls it). Sadly, after this record Herbie went off in search of his next big wave and Foday returned to Gambia to continue making his own music -I can't help but wish Herbie had rode this out a little more -but I guess that just makes this record all the more valuable. Not just a record for jazz fans but really a record for people who love music.

Tracks you'll regret not knowing before today:
Debo
Cigarette Lighter

Jerry Lee Lewis - Live at The Star Club 1964

Jerry Lee Lewis' decision to marry his 13 year old cousin should have destroyed his career -in fact, it's fair to say it did seeing as how he went from $10,000 gigs to $100 gigs in what may well be considered overnight. No longer an idol in the U.S. and struggling to get on stage in England, Jerry Lee had lost his good name but somehow never lost his spirit -but if you're looking for it -it's on this record. It seems as though Jerry Lee didn't need money as much as he needed an audience. Now, I know the Etta James live show did very well here -and I know I called it the greatest live show ever ... and it is, I'm not changing my mind -but this show .... it's just as incredible. The only difference between the Etta James show and Jerry Lee's is that while Etta's energy grew as the crowd got involved -Jerry Lee blows the goddamn doors of the place with the first track. He's a performer who lives for the crowd -he improvs on a few songs -injecting them with his ego, he howls like a feral animal, like a true madman -and he plays the piano with such power it's surprising he could ever use the same one twice. There's a reason they called him The Killer. He may not have been the most well respected man in the business because of his marriage but I have a feeling even if he had a clean background the industry giants would have shunned him out of fear. This recording is of a man taking his peers to school. He out performs just about anyone you've ever heard live -especially those who used to play with him (Presley, Cash, and Perkins come to mind). Think of this record as an open letter to anyone who shunned him -it reads: "You couldn't keep up with me if I were dead."
Enjoy this show -we know Jerry did.

Electronic and Electric

2007-10-21T14:54:00.000-04:00

Plone - For Beginner Piano

Atmospheric Atari-type influenced sonic-soundscapes ... that's Plone. If you liked the Fourtet post awhile back then give Plone a try. When the landscape isn't reminiscent of some sort of horror/mystery computer game dream which you cannot escape no matter how valiant your efforts (Press a Key and On My Bus) -the tone is that of trotting about at some poolside lounge party collecting phone numbers from girls who work at ice cream parlors (Bibi Plone). The overall feel of the record is difficult to pin down but you get the sense of there being a theme -it is not an incoherent record by any means but you walk away from it unsure of what has truly transpired because so many of the tracks have the tone of a dream. There's a lot of loops and a lot of the actual sounds being used are very light -yet they combine to create some very heavy tracks. When I say some tracks feel like a horror/mystery dream I mean that they engage you like a circus -there is too much to comprehend -do I look at the dog on a bicycle or is the guy in the cannon going to be more impressive -oh wait what's this a bear dressed as a ballerina?! You don't interact with the record it interacts with you. I lighter tracks (those poolside lounge party tracks) provide a release of tension and help float you along to the next sonic experience. Really, give it a listen -they used to open for Broadcast does that help you?

Lie down a try on:
On My Bus
Top & Low Rent
Press a Key

Bob Dylan - Thin Wild Mercury Music

As much I don't want to repeat myself and post an artist I've already posted (and so soon, no less) -I can't help but share this Dylan boot. While you might know a few of these tracks from the various official 'boots' -there are some gems on here that I haven't seen on Biograph or The Bootleg Series 1-3. For instance, on here you'll find two versions of Visions of Johanna -one (the shorter) that has Dylan singing in a sped-up waltz-type tempo and with much more instrumentation -the second version (at 8:29) has an alt-rock/country vibe that really sounds awkward in comparison to the official release and doesn't make itself worthwhile until about 6 1/2 minutes in -where it becomes very good. My all time favorite Dylan song -She's Your Lover Now- gets two treatments on here. The first (with the band prominently featured) is also found on The Bootleg Series and falls apart just before the last verse -yet, the second version, which is complete, is clearly a recording of Dylan trying to figure out how to present the song -as he sings he plays with his pacing and phrasing of this epic number. Honestly, I can go on forever but there is no reason to. There are Dylan fans who need to hear this stuff and there are Dylan fans who are satisfied with what's been released. You know who you are ... enjoy!

What a Wretch...

2007-10-19T13:41:00.000-04:00

The Fall - Live at The City Gardens 6-12-81

Ahh, The Mighty Fall and their fearless leader MES -how sad it is that time is merciless. Today's Fall is nothing to write home about -just another band playing watered-down "punk" -add some chants and some crunchy lines and you've got a salable product. Fortunately for us -someone was wise enough to record The Fall at their peak for posterity.
How's the sound? Not too bad -you can hear everything MES says and you can hear the drums without straining. The keys are audible, as are the guitars but the bass gets lost in the mix. If I had to grade it I'd give it a B -but it is the best live Fall boot I've heard to date, so give it a shot.
What do they play? The best of the best. A good sampling of Hex Enduction Hour -which, might be my favorite Fall album -mixed with their best work from the late 70's-early 80's (2nd Dark Age/ Fantastic Life / Middle Mass / and Prole Art Threat -are all given excellent treatment in this set, especially 2nd Dark Age).

If you're a Fall fan you'll surely enjoy this -but I'm not going to waste my time talking the album up to the lot of leaches you've all become. My hope for this blog was music discussion and exploration through sharing -but that's yet to happen. Let's drink to the future.

Setlist
Impression of J. Temperance / Deer Park/ Leave the Capitol/ Fortress > Totally Wired/ Hip Priest/ 2nd Dark Age /Fantastic Life/ Lie Dream of a Casino Soul/ Fit and Working Again/ Jawbone and the Air Rifle/ Session Musician/ Container Drivers/ Middle Mass/ Prole Art Threat

The Stranglers - IV (Rattus Norvegicus)

If you've been looking for this album -then you've found it. If you don't know this album -I'm sure you can find some generic write up for it somewhere else. The Stranglers are a very masculine band that plays keyboards. I've always regarded them as being extremely homo-erotic, even though most of their songs are about women. Perhaps there is some truth to the notion that those who objectify women are really just trying to impress the men that surround them. Anyway, The Stranglers are tough guys, who shout tough lyrics. Enjoy the record or don't. It's here for those who are interested.

P.S - I do love this record -with the only exception being "Goodbye Toulouse". Something about that song demands skipping.

"Its only the children of the fucking wealthy who tend to be good looking" - The Stranglers (from Ugly)

Pleased To Meet You....

2007-10-16T08:58:00.001-04:00

In an effort to get to know who I am talking to when I write my little reviews -and who I should be thinking of when I post my selections I ask that we all leave a comment saying who and where we are and what we like/dislike about this place.

If you have suggestions -perhaps another blog I might enjoy or even a record you've posted somewhere that think this crowd would dig -tell us all.

So - Who are you/ where are you from?
See you in the comments section.

Bloody Re-recordings - Bob and Lou

2007-10-15T18:18:00.000-04:00

Bob Dylan - Blood on the Tapes or Blood on the Tracks: The New York Sessions
No matter what side of title debate you fall on both camps agree that this collection of the original takes is essential listening for anyone who identifies themselves as a Dylan fan. The main difference between this version of Blood on the Tracks and the one Dylan actually released is the instrumentation -the focus of this album is Dylan's voice and his guitar. It is a very sparse recording -hints of an organ on "Idiot Wind", a familiar harmonica line on "You're Gonna Make Me Lonesome When You Go", -sure, there's a full band on "Meet Me in the Morning" but "Lily, Rosemary and the Jack of Hearts" is completely acoustic. The beauty of this record is its honesty -the focus on Dylan is a focus on a man working through the rough... "If You See Her Say Hello" hurts more to hear on this recording then it does on the official release. It's in the most minor lyrical change that the avid listener gets that oft-sought glimpse into to what they most seek -a peek at the real man - a face to face look at The Mighty Bob Dylan. Perhaps, I'm reading a bit much into this -but consider that Dylan scrapped these early pressings for being too emotionally revealing and opted to re-record his record. Think about that while you're enjoying the music.

Stand-out Tracks:
Idiot Wind
Lily, Rosemary and The Jack of Hearts
Tangled Up Blue

Lou Reed - Lou Reed (1972)

Did you already know that Transformer was not Lou's first release after the VU broke-up -well, really Lou just left them, the VU continued on to make what record no-one heard? Squeeze. Has anyone heard it? Anyway, here is Lou's self-titled 1972 release and while it certainly isn't as strong as Transformer I've always loved it because it captures a post-VU Lou who is obviously a bit nervous about going off on his own and recording new material. In fact, more than half the record is made up of rejected VU songs the Lou re-recorded for this album. This album features a Lou who desperately wants to gain some real industry recognition. He takes his old familiar songs and revamps them ... not always a great idea -now that we have the Peel Slowly Box we know most of these songs were better in their original incarnation. Regardless, I have enjoyed this record for years ... and really is Transformer really that great? Honestly, beyond Satellite of Love, Vicious (where he hits you with a flower) and Andy's Chest (he dug up his dead father?) was Transformer that great? Oh yeah, Perfect Day is great tune ,too .. if you like thinking about Lou and a transvestite eating strawberries in Central Park.

Take a listen -if you love Lou you'll enjoy this because you haven't already heard it. And because this record gets artifact status. It holds the key to Post-VU -Pre-Transformer Lou. And Lisa Says get a pretty soulful treatment on here. I hope you dig it.

Tracks a VU Fan would Be Interested In:
Lisa Says
Ocean
I Can't Stand It

If Danzig was The Misfits -Who was Pavement?

2007-10-11T09:41:00.000-04:00

The Misfits - Beware: The Complete Singles 1977-82

This time capsule collection comes to us from the German label Destroy Fascism Records - a great name considering today's bloggers vs. The Industry climate. Assuredly, any fan of The Misfits will know just about every song on here -especially since the band only recorded a limited amount of material with Danzig AKA -The Heart and Soul of The Misfits. As the title suggests this collection focuses on the singles - what we don't know from the title is that a lot of this collection sounds like direct rips of the ORIGINAL 7" pressings. This means some authentic fuzz pervades the record ... enjoy it -the sound is delightful - it sounds like the late 70's early 80's it claims to represent. The original recordings of Cough/Cool and She are easily the highlights for me -but I'll take alternate versions of Bullet and Teenagers From Mars any day. After the singles (Cough/Cool - Bullet - Horror Business - Night of the Living Dead - 3 Hits From Hell - Halloween) are all collected the record shifts into some live recordings -which is really just the seven tracks from Evilive ... and sadly sounds to me like a band that is fizzling out. The record closes with Return of the Fly and Last Caress. If you're looking to take a trip back in time with the coolest of the cool - then this is your record.

Pavement - Live in Cologne, Germany 1994

There isn't anything I can say about Pavement that the people looking to hear a live Pavement record don't already know. Let's face something here -you're either full-blown obsessed with Pavement or you don't care for them. I've never met a middle-of-the-road Pavement fan -have you? No. You need to know this - the sound quality is absolute perfection (well, not entirely- sometimes Malkmus is a bit louder then the rest of the band) and you should know Fight This Generation opens with a recorder or penny-whistle and finds Malkmus riffing some new first-verse lyrics (actually, just one word repeated "chancellor"). An excellent version of From Now On and a lot of interaction with a very excited German crowd. There is a greater ratio of rocking songs to softer songs- yet the versions of Here and Stop Breathin' are fantastic. Especially, Here -it's as beautiful as ever. The encore opens with a version of Forklift that gives them away as being big fan of The Fall.

Here's to better days and a possible reunion...

Thank a Blogger -It Makes Them Smile

2007-10-06T17:24:00.000-04:00

Etta James - Etta James Rocks the House (1963)

In September of 1963 at 25 years old, Etta James may have recorded the single greatest live performance -EVER. Etta James Rocks The House is easily the most dynamic and rollicking blues record I have ever heard and I hope you agree. Much like Van Morrison's Astral Weeks, what I find to be so awe-inspiring on this recording is Ms. Etta James voice. She sings with a knowledge so worldly, aged and wise that it is difficult to believe she was only 25. She exudes strength and is a powerful singer -yet she is also a lot of fun. Never have I heard an audience worked into such a frenzy -if you don't think this is the greatest live recording ever, surely you'll agree this is the most generous audience you ever heard -another reason to love this record is her give and take-type, call and response interactions with the audience. The more she gives to them the wilder they get -the wilder they get the more excited her performance becomes. There is a palpable energy to felt on this record. In fact, this is everything a live recording should be -it is the perfect substitute for being there in the crowd.

If you've never heard Ms. Etta James but you know you like R&B Blues with a lot of feeling and a lot of "shouting" then take a listen now. I read a review of this record once that described Ms. James' singing as being able to put both Little Richard and James Brown to shame. This is a fantastic record.

The Quintet - Jazz at Massey Hall (1953)

My vote for the second greatest live recording of all time goes to The Quintet's 1953 performance at Massey Hall. This performance is important because of the lineup before the actual music. This record is more of a photograph of an incredible night where five of the greatest jazz musicians of all time came together to play a show, it is an indispensable document, it is a record. In May of 1953 Charlie Parker, Dizzy Gillespie, Max Roach, Bud Powell, and Charles Mingus got on stage together as The Quintet and blew the roof off of Massey Hall. Each in their own right a legend in Jazz mythology, the members of The Quintet shine together each giving a phenomenal performance -the type of performance you can only get by putting the best the of the best on a stage and allowing each to play off the other. Powell's piano solo on Perdido is matched by Roach's drum solo on Wee, Dizzy kills Salt Peanuts and Charlie Parker shines on A Night in Tunisia. And, so as not to neglect the great Mr. Charles Mingus -I should acknowledge that without him this recording might not have been available ... he recorded it for his label the time.

This is the only time these five players performed together as a group. It was the last time Dizzy and The Bird played together on a record. (Rumor has it that Parker -billed as Charlie Chan due to contractual obligations- played this set on a plastic alto sax, but who knows for sure?) By far my favorite live Jazz recording -at the very least the most important.

Two Records. Take Them.

2007-10-02T13:24:00.000-04:00

The Kinks - Lola versus Powerman and the Moneygoround, Part One (1970)

While I realize most of us already own this album I can't help myself -having seen the new Wes Anderson picture (Darjeeling Limited) over the week-end I figure that people who haven't heard this album will be on the lookout for it (considering three of the songs on here appear in the film). Prior to this weekend I didn't regard this album as being much of anything too exciting. I always though it was better than their first two albums but not by much, considering those albums laid the foundation for the greatest R'n'R band in history. Ok .. I might be getting ahead of myself a bit -but the more I listen to The Kinks, and especially considering their versatility, I am beginning to think they might be the best band ever -at the very least my favorite band (which puts them in a three way tie with *** ****** *********** and ********). But back to Lola Vs Powerman, the album varies stylistically which is why a lot of people tend to forget about it (the other reason would be that they already have an mp3 of "Lola" and no longer need an album -this makes you a bad music collector). It isn't exactly consistent the way Schoolboys, Something Else and Village Green are but it does deliver everything you could expect from the Kinks -Fun Songs, Rocking Songs, Emotional Ballads, and Sincerity -and all the while self-reflexively exploring what it means to be in a band trying to make music and money in the industry. Great record. Thanks to Wes Anderson for inspiring a re-listen to this record.

This brings me to another point -Even tough music is purely sonic, how often do you find that a film helps you to recognize the beauty of a song, and therefore prompts you to seek out the record -be it, again or for the first time? I didn't care for this album until "Darjeeling Limited" and now I can't stop listening.

Tracks Wes Anderson wants you to hear:
This Time Tomorrow
Strangers

Y Pants (1980)

I intended to post Liquid Liquid (if you want me to -please ask, it's waiting) but when I got to thinking about the 99Label that they were on I thought instead of Y Pants. Considering not too many people know of Y Pants I figured I be doing the right thing by teaming them up with the ever popular Kinks. So, we go from well-known to the definition of obscure. Three women making music. Very art rock. They shared the 99Label spotlight with the likes of ESG, Bush Tetras, Glenn Branca, and Liquid Liquid -so you should get a sense of what not to expect. What you'll get with this record is art. Music that, much like Lydia Lunch -yet nowhere near as aggressive, challenges what we consider to be music.

Give it a listen. I don't feel like going on about this because I think I am getting tired of this blog. So, here's another free record for you to download.

Enjoy it.

EDIT 10-5-07
I am not getting tired of this blog -I love doing this. I was just having an awful day by the time I got around to writing the second half -note that the Kinks entry written that same day is drastically different in tone. I just need some feedback to keep me going. A couple of entries didn't go as well as I had expected -I can only know I am doing right by my audience if the audience claps after the show. If you aren't clapping give me some suggestions. What are looking for? What do you want to see? What keeps you coming back?

You've Got a Celluloid Tendency

2007-09-27T17:21:00.000-04:00

Rrose Sélavy Presents: 4 Tube Tuner
Here is the first in what I think can easily become a series of Rrose Sélavy releases. Entitled "4 Tube Tuner", what we have on display today for you ladies and gentleman is Rock 'n' Roll from 1958 through 1966. I'll provide a track list with this one because it is my hope that what I am offering will be largely unknown by you, my readership because what would be the point otherwise? Posting music we've all heard already... not my idea of sharing. Richie Valens and Ike Turner do appear on here but I'll say this -the Valens tune is really more of a C-side, if such a thing exists, as the track is not "LaBamba" or "Donna" -and the Ike Turner track is a rolling bluesy type R'n'R number with a great deal of lead guitar and a very welcome sax solo (this is what the man was doing right before teaming up with Tina and bruising his career). What I am most excited about sharing are the tracks by Tempest, Les Sabres, and The Busters. These three bands provide some off the wall instrumental R'n'R energy and represent everything music should have been in their day. We truely do stand on the shoulders of giants, unfortunately for many of the acts on here when we got up on their shoulders we crushed them -stamped them out into oblivion. You want to know what you're going to find on here -music -music you will be proud to play at top volume in your car at a red light. You'll find yourself praying the light lasts just long enough for everyone on the corner to hear the raucous piano solo end or the wailing voice of the frontman come back in. Goddamn, if you won't want to believe your James Dean. That's what rock and roll should do.

If you like what you hear -tell me- if you want more, you can have 'em. I have plans for a Blues Compliation, as well as ideas for R&B roots R'n'R type of collections. So, tell me want more and I'll get right on it.

Track Listing
1. Big Danny Oliver - Sapphire / 2. Catalinas - Destruction / 3. Ike Turner - Prancin' / 4. Tempest - Lemon Lime / 5. Frantics - The Whip / 6. Richie Valens - Ooh! My Head / 7. Busters - Bustin' Out / 8. Les Sabres - Stand By / 9. Jesters - Cadillac Man / 10. Every Woman I Know (is Crazy About an Automobile) / 11. Hound Dog Taylor & The Houserockers - What'd I Say

The Mountain Goats - Zopilote Machine (1994)

I didn't plan on posting this until I had more time with it on my own. Some more time to really understand why I want to share this record -to understand why I even like this record. Perhaps it's better this way -to try and tell you what has prompted action rather than tell you why you should want to hear this -though it should be enough that just having this record play as I type has pressured me to share it. This is a very lo-fi recording of a singer/songwriter. A little like Loudon in the voice sometimes, yet not as depressing. There is, in some unidentifiable way, an unusual amount of energy in this recording for what is generally just a man and a guitar. The lyrics are warm, sentimental, and intelligent -and I don't mean in that cryptic sense where anything we don't understand in a song is attributed to someone being a "true artist" or a "genius". I won't even call this gent, John Darnielle, a genius. I will say that he is fascinating, his lyrics interesting in an emotional respect. I think I might be babbling -this is why I prefer to think about a record before posting -at this point I just want to plead with you to give this record a shot. I'm stopping here.

This is a very poetic record.

Anyone who already know this record or the Mountain Goats please leave a comment that might help pique the interest of others, in the event that this little bit here hasn't convinced them already.

Tracks I wish you listen to:
Alpha Incipiens
Bad Priestess
Grendel's Mother
Going to Georgia

The Father of R'n'R and One of His Odd-Ball Sons

2007-09-20T09:32:00.000-04:00

Little Richard - Long Tall Sally

Easily the most important figure in R'n'R history. Anybody who has ever touched an instrument (and this includes even the "air" instruments -air guitar, air drums, and air bass) owes some degree of gratitude to Little Richard. There isn't one branch of the musical family tree that doesn't at some point reach back to Little Richard. I cannot imagine the state of R'n'R today, had Little Richard never recorded. There is no way to stress the importance of this man's influence on music. All I can do is share this record -more of a collection then an official release- and pray that anyone who's never actually put on a full disc of his music and sat down in front of the speaker (that is, until you stand up and dance uncontrollably) does so. Every song is recorded with more energy then one thought could be contained on an album. I really don't know what else to say. Seriously, if you have never given Little Richard a fair shot I beg you to listen to this from start to finish. Then again, if you're surfing music blogs you should already know your music history. This for anyone who loves music, really, it is. Imagine a world with no Sonics, no Beatles, no Stones, no Elvis, no Jerry Lee Lewis, no Ray Charles, no Dylan, no Otis Redding, no music to live for. If you don't have Little Richard, you need him.

Tracks that could make you cry with excitement:
She's Got It
Lucille
Long Tall Sally

Tyrannosaurus Rex - A Beard of Stars

Marc Bolan. Has there ever been a more enchanting song writer? At times he can be a little too "elves are building the next great civilization and pixies will ride majestic unicorns to greet them with a gilded bouquet of stars" - especially on his earlier records (My People Were Fair, and Prophets, Seers & Sages) but this record is particularly important, as it marks the shift in Bolan's sound -he has begun to truly experiment with electric instrumentation here. This record would be the last release from Tyrannosaurus Rex and signals the birth of T. Rex, a band that would spend only one album looking backward before recording Electric Warrior. This record is still chained to the band's spiritual-folk-mythology foundation but there is a palpable sense of pulling away, especially on the title track, which turns into an extended guitar solo. Bolan was moving on, he was ready to rock and searching for success. The album's closer "Elemental Child" is proof of what Bolan was looking to achieve on future records, thankfully by the time he got there he had honed in on exactly what it was he wanted. Why should you listen this record? Because in order to understand the future you have to look to the past. We have this record to thank for T. Rex. It's also a great place for people who love the "Electric Warrior" era recordings but are afraid to, or don't know where to, delve into the Tyrannosaurus Rex era recordings. Enjoy!

Tracks that bridge the gap:
Elemental Child
A Beard of Stars
Woodland Bop

Where have you been?

2007-09-16T19:28:00.000-04:00

The Chambers Brothers - The Time Has Come

Soulful. What more can I say? This band of brothers have put together a record so strong that to have never heard it is criminal. "Time Has Come Today" is the only track on here you might know if you aren't familiar with this record, it was their only charting single off here. However, this record does include a mighty fine cover of Wilson Pickett's "Midnight Hour" and a cover of Burt Bacharach's "What the World Needs Now" that shames the original. These guys cans harmonize with the best of Motown. If only they hadn't come from California, by way of Mississippi, they might have fallen in with that Motown Sound (if anyone is interested in a post that highlights the Holland-Dozier-Holland era of Motown -let me know). Then again, they didn't really need Motown to find their sound, but if they had been connected perhaps history would have been a bit kinder to them.
Anyway, "Time Has Come Today" is a force you need to know. "All Strung Out Over You" - the album opener should have been a hit ... it's as good as any song that still gets played on your local Oldies station (and let's not talk about local Oldies stations ... I often feel compelled to write to mine and complain about their incessant spinning of Billy Joel tracks. He's from NY, sure, but he should be following "Shotgun" by Jr. Walker on an Oldie station). "People Get Ready" is just beautiful, and is also another cover that I feel bests the original. I'm going quit writing here because if I don't I'll end up gushing track by track until the end of the record. Just have a listen and let me know what you think.

Tracks to get you on board:
Time Has Come
People Get Ready
All Strung out Over You

The Velvet Underground - Wild Side of the Street 8/2/69

Lou and the gang are alive and electrifying on this boot. Goddamn if Lou Reed isn't one of the finest guitar players to ever live. My favorite aspect of Lou's playing is that when he goes off into a solo you can hear that he is following it out as opposed to leading himself through it. I wholly believe that no Lou Reed solo was ever duplicated no matter how many time he played the songs live. This boot is impressive for a number of reasons (the sound quality is great before you ask) and Lou's playing is just the start of it. The band dynamic that one can sense from this recording is my primary reason for sharing this. When you're listening to this recording, particularly "What Goes On", listen for Lou trying to break back into the song once the Organ solo has (perhaps to Lou) gone on too long. It is a fantastic example of Lou's desire for control of the VU' s sound. "What Goes On" runs for about 12 minutes, 3/4 of which is an organ solo that feature's Lou on rhythm guitar -ohh ... you can almost hear his frustration in having to play to someone else for so long. A fine balance though, Lou gets a great deal of spotlight on almost every track. And then there's "Sister Ray" my all-time favorite VU song. "Sister Ray" gets the typical 1/2 hour treatment that it seems to have gotten every time it was played live. The droning is immense, the guitar alternates between being the thickest sound and the cleanest, while the organ wanders in and out of the feedback that gets so loud the rest of the band gets lost in the recording. I feel like am failing here but I guess I am trying to describe a full-on attack. In the immortal words of Bob Dylan -"Play it fucking LOUD!" If you love the Velvet's you'll surely love this recording.

Track Listing
1. Waiting For the Man 7:19
2. Run Run Run 10:36
3. Pale Blue Eyes 6:04
4. What Goes On 11:40
5. Heroin 6:59
6. Sister Ray 24:02

Foreign Sounds from Near and Far

2007-09-11T11:49:00.000-04:00

Teenage Jesus and The Jerks - Everything

Do you know why the No Wave movement was called No Wave? It had less to do with New Wave, which was basically happening simultaneously, and everything to do with the fact that No Wave bands believed there was No Wave, no particular sound to adhere to. No Wave is the perfect label for bands like DNA, Teenage Jesus and The Jerks, and Suicide -because while the label does not inspire any specific expectations of sounds to follow -it does brace you for what you'll find -and you can find pretty much anything on a No Wave record. For example, this record contains the creepy, screeching (of both guitars and vocals) noise that is "Orphans". The line "Little orphans running through the bloody snow" is chanted over a guitar that seems to be a victim of dementia. Great stuff. Later on the record is the track "My Eyes" - a song that chugs along while a sax wails and bops in and out of the forefront as though it is attempting to escape a brutal beating, yet refuses to leave. Also, great stuff. Lydia Lunch has an impressive voice and the band helps by creating an atmosphere of assault. Any conventional understanding you have of punk, or music in general, is under attack as soon as you begin to play this record. You should feel frenzied as this plays -hopefully that frenzy will inspire you to create something equally as challenging. (Teenage)Jesus, knows we need it.

Shrieking songs you might want to show you friends:
Orphans
I Woke Up Dreaming
Crown of Thorns

Gal Costa - Gal Costa (Cinema Olympia) - 1969

Now for something less frightening. Gal Costa is from Brazil and this album is considered to be Tropicália. I won't pretend that I know what Tropicália is really all about -just trust me this record needs to be heard. You aren't going to understand the lyrics, as they're in Portuguese but lyrics aren't the only reason to listen to music. Words are the primary motivator for reading and speaking, sounds and movements are the impetus for music. So, what will you hear while listening to this record? An incredible voice, beautiful at it's worst/ late 60's-early 70's type wah-wah guitars/ studio experimentation/ and the sound of Brazil. Imagine that Bjork has somehow influenced Brazil in the late-60's and you get this album -the association comes from the myriad of sounds and styles incorporated into this album, the mid-song shifts in direction, and the way that Gal uses her voice as an instrument. However, being that I know nothing of Tropicália movement I feel that I am not only doing this album a disservice by trying to write about it but I am not selling it very well.
So, here's this -if you trust me -look at my history, do you agree with it?- try this album and hit the tracks I suggest below, unless you really love music, in which case just put the record on and enjoy it.

Tracks I want you to hear before you pass judgment:
País Tropical
The Empty Boat
Meu Nome É Gal

Do you love music?

2007-09-10T16:53:00.000-04:00

The Velvet Underground - 1966 Acetate Recording
Remember the story of that one cat with such good luck he happened to flip through a bin of used LP's one Saturday morning, only to come up with one of two known original pressings of the Velvet Underground's 1966 first attempt at recording their debut record? He found it in Chelsea, New York in 2002 -no more then 75 feet from where I used to work. If only...

Well, anyway - here it is! If you haven't heard it you're in for a treat. The songs are not dramatically different -they are in a different order, but you'll recognize each song as basically being the same as the end result. Don't get me wrong, this is worth hearing -that is, if you consider yourself to be a real VU fan (in which case, you've probably already heard this). I happened to catch it one night on one of my favorite local radio stations here in Brooklyn. At first I was just really excited to be hearing VU on the radio -then I realized that, not only was the sound of the actual recording unfamiliar, but that one of Lou's solos came in a few beats later then I was anticipating. I was shocked! I'd heard the story of the acetate but never expected to hear it, let alone hear it on the radio. This is an absolutely indispensable piece of music history. Have at it, it's here for you in the event that your local radio station didn't play it one late Friday night.

No need to woo you with my picks it's The Velvet Underground.

Theme Time Radio Hour w/Bob Dylan - 14 - The Devil

Now for more on why we should listen to the radio - XM Satellite Radio, that is. XM Radio has done a wonder for fans of music AND fans of Dylan -they gave him his own weekly show. Never playing his own music, once a week listeners are guaranteed the pleasure of hearing Dylan play music he claims is from his own collection. The format is as follows - Dylan picks a theme (I'm offering "The Devil" today) - Dylan plays music that fits the theme. The beauty of this show is the variety of music you'll hear. Some songs you'll recognize, some you might be familiar with due to covers, and some you wouldn't know existed if it weren't for this show. My all-time favorite track featured on this show (included in this episode) is Otis Spann's "It Must Have Been the Devil". This track is well know in the blues circles, as is Otis Spann's piano playing -what is unknown is the version Dylan played, because it has been Out-of-Print for so long no one knows where to look for it anymore. The version found in here is one which features B.B. King sitting in with an electric Chicago band and, as Dylan says "This record was recorded after an all night party -and it sure sounds like it". Let us not forget the second best part of this show is that Dylan introduces each song with a little story or quote he's picked up along the way. Again, this post is for fans of music AND Dylan but not exclusively for fans of Dylan. All music lovers are encouraged to listen in. The tracks are labeled in the folder so you'll know what you're getting but, as any good dealer should, I'll give you a taste of the track listing below.

The Pusherman says you'll enjoy hearing:
Skip James, Tom Waits, Elvis Presley,
Flying Burrito Brothers, Shorty Long,
Beck, and Robert Johnson.

Days of Future Past

2007-09-07T12:41:00.000-04:00

Pigbag - Dr. Heckle and Mr. Jive

Funk-Jazz? I don't know if I like the term... it sure beats Acid-Jazz, I've never liked that one. Alright, why should you download Pigbag (that is, assuming you don't already know who they are and that you've been searching for this album)? Do you like upbeat, bass and horn driven sections in your music? What if we crossed the bass and horn section with some rollicking drums and some sometimes Spanish-jazz-porn sounding guitars? One track, "Big Bag", has some Coltrane-type horn work and if that doesn't get you interested -What if I said the half of the album that isn't a constant party was clearly Krautrock influenced? Those sections of the record tend to feel like Can's "Tago Mago" meets Miles' "Bitches Brew'" at a bar hideout in the rain-forest. Crazy? Yeah. The record is called Dr Heckle and Mr. Jive. When Mr. Jive is no longer in control the record takes a dark turn, but fear not, before your acid brain gets too lost in the mire the band snaps back into form and draws you back out on to the dance-floor. Think of "She's So Heavy" into "Here Comes the Sun" -the darkness can only crawl so far in before the band must take responsibility and shift gears. Hmm... did this become too dark? Have you forgotten that the fun half is fun? I promise -if you like Can, KONK, or ESG, etc. you find plenty to love about this record ... it closes as strong as it opens. Enjoy.

Tracks to love for some reason or other:
Getting Up
Orangutango
Big Bag

Fourtet - Pause

If you know Fridge or Kieran Hebden, then you know Fourtet. If you want to know either just ask. Since we can't hear each other I'll pretend you asked. The internet really is a lonely place, isn't it? All questions become rhetorical when typed into the empty space information warehouse of the internet.

We need a new paragraph to continue -that one was a downer. Fourtet is beautifully complex without being challenging, which isn't to say that it is unintelligent. What I mean is you can put this album on and relax, or drive a car, or write, or read, no matter what you choose to do the album will enhance it. However, if you choose to just listen, say with headphones in the dark (that's how I like to hear an album for the first time) you will notice new sounds and textures with each listen. What kind of sounds? Well, computers, typewriters, wind-chimes, some stringed instruments, perhaps a xylophone? Sometimes accompanied by a hip-hop beat other times not. At all times though, this record is engagingly exquisite and pleases even the finest of aesthetic standards. Please listen to this record if you like the sounds the make music.

Tracks that make both the young and old smile:
Twenty Three
Hilarious Movie of the 90's
No More Mosquitoes
Everything is Alright

Did you hear the one about...

2007-09-05T16:48:00.000-04:00

Trent Reznor & Peter Murphy - Radio Sessions 2006

Today's post comes as a surprise to me, as the first half of it (the NIN part) is very out of character. I was there for Trent Reznor in 7th Grade when I first heard the Downward Spiral, however I abandoned his empire of dirt and self-loathing for the equally depressing songs of Billy Corgan, who I found to be sonically more appealing to my youthful temperament. So, try to imagine my surprise when I found myself back in Reznor's court this afternoon listening to a series of live recordings from 2006. I don't how popular this selection will be with my current audience but if I have been successful in attracting music purists, then hopefully I've begun to earn their trust and they'll take a listen on my recommendation.
This bootleg is a collection of appearances Reznor made at various radio stations in 2006 with Peter Murphy. You might know him as the former singer of Bauhaus (I didn't, but that's him). Anyway, as these recordings come from radio stations the sound is perfect. No worries there. Why would I think a music purist would find this piece to be of interest? Well, not only does it feature two musical giants, but their choice of songs is very appealing. The duo tackles the NIN standard "Head Like a Hole", as well as the Bauhaus standard "Bela Lugosi's Dead" - both versions are reimagined though they are not superior to their originals. My favorite part of the album is the covers which include 4 Joy Division songs (Warsaw, Atmosphere, Twenty-Four Hours, Dead Souls) and 1 Pere Ubu song "Final Soultion" (my favorite track on here). The best Joy Division cover is "Dead Souls"(which, if you don't remember it from Joy Division, surely you'll remember it as the track NIN contributed to "The Crow Soundtrack"). Oh, there is also a cover of Iggy Pop's "Nightclubbing" from his album "The Idiot", which is pretty spot on. Highly enjoyable. Take a listen. I have to stop raving about this record.

Tracks to skip to if you're not "feeling" it:
Nightclubbing
Hurt
Dead Souls

Flipper - Generic (1982)

"Ever do nothing and gain nothing from it?" ... Listening to this album won't be like this but that is a lyric from from the opening track "Ever" a song in which each line is shouted over their grunge/punk sound that's been infused with a clap track. Fantastic tune. Remember when Kurt Cobain wore that "Flipper" shirt in that photo? I do and wish I had sought out their record sooner. In fact, if I could go back in time to do something that wouldn't alter the course of history too dramatically -I'd go back and give myself this album (if I were permitted to alter history - I'd go back and join The Voidoids).
But back to Flipper. Lyrically this album reminds me of The Dead Milkmen ("this song rhymes and we play it in time") but if they were a little tougher and a lot more dejected. It's easy to see what Cobain saw in this band. In some way they really must be considered the inverse of The Dead Milkmen, let me know if you agree, or if you have a better way of describing them. The remarkable thing about Flipper is that they really define what it is about punk that I'm so attracted to. They don't give a fuck. (Pardon me.) They recorded what they wanted to record and they were proud of it. Listen to "Nothing" if you don't believe me. Try it you might like it. SEX BOMB, MOMMA! YEAH!

Tracks you'll surely adore:
Ever
Living for the Depression
Sex Bomb

Garage Then and Now

2007-08-30T15:42:00.000-04:00

The Monks - Black Monk Time

Imagine you're stationed in Germany with a few of your friends in the 1960's. You're a collective of American GI's, yet you're also musicians. To pass the time you play Rock 'n' Roll covers for the German bar crowd, a crowd that would rather hear a real band and not some unknown cover band. What do you do? Well, if you were in this situation in the 60's you were The Monks and the result of such a circumstance would be your album Black Monk Time. If no one in the room knows what you're singing then you're free to sing whatever you want. You could shout "Pussy Galore is coming now and we like it/We don't like the atomic bomb". Or perhaps write a song where the only lyrics are "Higgle-Dy Piggle-Dy/Way down to Heaven". When no one understands you you're free to do as you please. In some sense I consider The Monks to be the Marcel Duchamp of the R'n'R dream. Both decided to do as the pleased and eventually earned the respect of the future. Fantastic organ work on this garage/punk/hint o'surf record, not to mention the guitar work. If you've never heard it, here it is. You've been missing out for too long now.

Tracks to win your heart:
Monk Time
Higgly-Dy, Piggly-Dy
I Hate You

April March Sings Along With The Makers

I bring you April March and The Makers today, even though it violates my two distinct genre rule because I really want to show just how important The Monks are to the history garage. The Makers are well known for being a powerhouse in the garage rock revival scene. They've been around since 1994 gracing the world with their quick beats, thick, scorching garage/punk guitar solos, and snide vocal stylings. Very hip cats, very. How do the hip become hipper? They team up with the pinnacle of ultra-cool, April March. Ms. March is an American singer/songwriter who would prefer to be a French singer/songwriter, but in the 1960's and on the pop-charts. She's worked on Ren and Stimpy and Pee-Wee's Playhouse as and animator, and her albums sometimes contain songs sung in French. Very retro, very hip -need I say more? If you like either act, then check out this collaboration. A lot of upbeat fun and very sexy.

Tracks you cannot refuse:
Dreams Don't Come True
I Just Might Crack
Sad Little Bug

Song and Dance

2007-08-27T17:22:00.000-04:00

KONK - The Sound of KONK

So, you think you know about Sonic Youth? I've shared Theoretical Girls, as I think it is how the musical family tree brought us to Sonic Youth. I also posted Free Kitten -a Sonic Youth side project. Now, today I bring you (and not because I want to keep harping on Sonic Youth, but because I want to dance with everyone)- KONK!!! What does KONK have to do with SY? Hmm... some of you knew. For those wondering what the others rang in with, the answer is Richard Edson. Edson was the drummer for Sonic Youth when they recorded their first album (Self-Titled-1982) but he quit the band to join another. WHAT??!! Yeah, hard to believe someone would leave Sonic Youth -fortunately for us he wrote an essay for the re-release of that first SY record and he explains why he left for KONK:

"I believed that [they] were financially better off than my East Village friends and therefore less authentic. Also, the Soho crowd was less cool, brainier, and a lot whiter and careerist. We (the cooler, mixed , multiracial kids in the East Village) felt superior to our artistic counterparts in Soho ... we were poorer but realer. We were in it for fun and community, not status, "art", and fame."
(from the liner notes to SY - s/t)

So, to describe KONK I'd have to agree with Edson -you can hear the fun, and the community. Remember ESG, Liquid Liquid, and/or Pigbag? Well, that's where KONK fits in. Download and enjoy -that is if fun and dancing are acceptable to you.

Tracks which make this post worth while:
Elephant
Machina Jam
Baby Dee

Loudon Wainwright III - Album II

Do you know Loudon? He's a guitar playing singer-songwriter that many listeners wrote off the first time the heard "Dead Skunk." The problem with dismissing Loudon is that you miss out on some great records that put him in the same class as Dylan (yeah, I do believe this), Nick Drake and Dan Bern. Loudon sings songs about being lonely, losing love, desperation, (I know this description won't win everyone over), but also about cats, haircuts, and babies. Strange mix I know, but if there is any reason to post this record it so that the rest of the world can have the chance to the stinging, raw sound that Loudon produces on "Motel Blues", "Drinking Blues", and "Winter Song". These are certainly the strongest songs on the record and this is because they're serious, Loudon is often heard using humor as a counter-balance to the depressed tone of his sparse sound. This record is clever and cutting, and, yet finds a way to remain fun. as only Loudon can do. Try it. I dare you.

Tracks to justify your download time:
Motel Blues
Winter Song
Drinking Song

Spaced Out Music

2007-08-23T11:00:00.000-04:00

Sun Ra - Second Star to the Right

For those who don't know Sun Ra this isn't the most appropriate place to begin, in fact, Space Is The Place is a better place to begin if you want to get a good sense of what he does. This record, however, is more accessible then most of Sun Ra's work, as it is composed of Disney songs that Sun Ra has reworked. Billed as a tribute to Walt Disney, this record is a testament to just how far out Sun Ra really was. Not only a Jazz pioneer, but a guy who can have some fun, kick back and play a show of Disney tunes. Very strange but then again, this is Sun Ra we're talking about. If you don't know Sun Ra's music, or if you don't know just how eccentric he was as a person - do yourself a favor and look for videos of him or just read up on his life. He is as fascinating as his music is interesting. So, this part of the post is for those who love Sun Ra and/or Jazz - But it is also for anyone just looking to have some fun with a very odd record.

Tracks to prove my post:
Forrest of No Return
Frisco Frog

Daniel Johnston - Yip/Jump Music

Daniel Johnston is something to hear. Many people know him from the documentary, yet haven't heard enough of his music to feel safe buying an album. So, to help everyone feel more comfortable giving their money to Mr. Johnston, I am offering my favorite album from him to give you all a chance to hear his work. My favorite song of his is on here "Speeding Motorcycle", as is "Casper the Friendly Ghost", which was featured prominently in the movie. His voice may take a second to get used to, and the sound quality (because he recorded everything to cassette tapes) can seem unlistenable, but I assure this is part of his charm. If you like this record please visit the official site and buy some more records. This will prove to be the most honest, raw recording of any music you have ever heard. Please listen and share your thoughts.

Tracks to prove my post:
Speeding Motorcycle
Don't Let the Sun Go Down On Your Grievances

Two Beautiful Singers

2007-08-21T10:36:00.000-04:00

Clap Your Hands Say Yeah - S/T
Alright, I'll admit I didn't like this album very much until yesterday. I've owned it as long as everyone else who owns it has (from the start ... yeah, I get it - you're only hip if you buy the record before everyone else hears it... nonsense). Anyway, I am posting Clap Your Hands Say Yeah for anyone who missed it when it came around. I bought it on a recommendation and initially only liked that the vocals are obtrusive. I really enjoyed the fact that you had to want to listen to this record -it didn't invite you to listen, you really had to want it. The lyrics are really spectacular, but good luck understanding them on the first 12 listens. I think this is why I didn't like the record until yesterday - I wanted to fully understand what was being sung. Now I am happy to say I don't care much a out the lyrics with this record because whether you like the voice or not the vocal track is being used as an instrument. You'll understand the words you need to and appreciate the sound of the words you don't understand. Win-Win. The record is also a lot of fun (the reason I kept listening). So, if you missed it the first time out (2005) or passed on it because it didn't sound like "your thing" -please, try it again.

Tracks to prove my point:
Let The Cool Goddess Rust Away
The Skin of My Yellow Country Teeth
Upon This Tidal Wave of Young Blood

Captain Beefheart and The Magic Band - Doc At The Radar Station

Everyone knows Captain Beefheart, whether it's from his association with Zappa, his contribution to The Big Lebowski soundtrack, or from the White Stripes - China Pig 7", people know the Captain. But in an effort to make the world just a little bit more familiar with his work, I'm posting this album. The reason for this post is -most people haven't heard this record. Everyone knows Safe as Milk (1967) and/or Trout Mask Replica (1968), which is great because it's something. But, what is so important about this record is that it's the Captain's second to last release (1980) and it proves he never lost his edge. This record is thick with a garage-punk sensibility, as well as that signature avant-garde/jazz-blues type of growl and stomp that we love the Captain for. The lyrics are clever at times, and at others absurd, naturally. You'll hear him shout "someone's had too much to think"(Ashtray Heart) and you'll hear him ask, "God, please fuck my mind for good"(Making Love to a Vampire With a Monkey on my Knee), but that's why it's a Beefheart record. If you don't own this - give it a shot. If you don't like Captain Beefheart and you've never heard this album - give it a shot. Either way take a listen and let me know how you feel.

Tracks to prove my point:
Ashtray Heart
Run Paint Run Run
Best Batch Yet

Theoretically Malkmus

2007-08-17T09:33:00.000-04:00

I am going away for a few days. I will be posting again on Tuesday morning. My lack of posts is not indicative of death. I will return shortly.

Theoretical Girls - Theoretical Record

As much as I hate to define a band by talking about another one, it is inevitable that I'll have to mention Sonic Youth by the end of this. The reason I can't say much about Theoretical Girls themselves is ... well, look them up. Surely you'll find a bunch of pages that say "they were around for a very short time", "one record", "major influence on...". The big mention in every write up is Glenn Branca - this is one of the places he came from (the other was The Static). This is a record full of his signature sound (in it's early stages) - organized noise and feedback but with some very 1977 punk influenced guitar work, which he would later lose. Very good record and not only because it serves as an introduction to Glenn Branca- it is simply a very strong record. However, my primary reason for featuring them today is that I have had such positive response to the Sonic Youth live show and Free Kitten. I just felt the only logical thing to do was to host a record I consider to be a touchstone in both the history of Punk/No-Wave and of Sonic Youth. This is a record for fans of Music as art - but everyone should enjoy it.

Tracks to prove my point:
Theoretical Girls (live)
Keyboard Etude
Computer Dating

Stephen Malkmus - Brand New Tunes (Live)

What can I say about this recording?
We all love SM.
We all miss Pavement.
We all learned to
love The Jicks (and we really do ... now).
So, the second half of today's post comes from a live show recorded 1-20-07 in Portland and features 9 new SM tunes. At least, 9 tunes we don't yet have on any albums -Pavement or The Jicks. I found these tracks a while back on another blog (I wish I could remember where so as to give the proper credit). Quite truthfully, I don't know how I feel about these songs but they are very clean recordings of songs we don't know, and for that reason it is my duty to share them with you. Enjoy.

Tracks to prove my point:
I have no point. This is just SM. Give it a listen.

Hallucinoenic SMiLE

2007-08-15T08:14:00.001-04:00

The Beach Boys - Smile

So, we were all relieved to finally get our hands on an official copy of Brian Wilson's Smile a couple of years back, right? Well, sort of. I know I was bothered by his decision to close with "Good Vibrations" but this is because the Smile I had been listening to for years closed with "Surf's Up". "How perfect an ending is this?," I thought. The last song from the Beach Boys, the guys who brought you "Surfin' Safari" were done ... Surf's Up ... "A choke of grief heart hardened I
Beyond belief a broken man too tough to cry/ Surf's Up /Aboard a tidal wave." The dream was crashing, Brian Wilson was losing it, everything was slipping from his grasp but instead of being honest and releasing the album as an artist does ... he remade it years after the fact. Now, I am grateful for what he gave us because he it was something, but for me the boot I've always had will always be my favorite.
There isn't anything to say for the '66-'67 tracks that were sequenced endlessly by fans, except if you don't have them get them.
(Note: The sequencing is Locked this will dl as one 44min track. Comment if you're interested in more of the Smile sessions tracks. If there is enough interest I'll post more.)

Tracks to prove my point:
The Entire Album
Prayer / Heroes And Villains / Barnyard / Do You Dig WormsThe Old Master Painter / My Only Sunshine / He Gives Speeches / Wonderful / Child Is The Father To The Man / Cabinessence / Look / Good Vibrations / I Wanna Be Around Friday Night / Vegetables /Wind Chimes / Mrs O Learys Cow / Love To Say Da Da / You're Welcome / Surfs Up

Sonic Youth - Hallucinogenic Preserve

How can I go wrong with back-to-back Kim Gordon posts. Hallucinogenic Preserve is a live Sonic Youth show from 4/7/1996 in Germany. If you have never seen SY live or even heard a good live boot- then let's get on with the listening. This is a very clean recording and the band is working at full capacity, which means lots of instrumental breaks and lots of noise/feedbacky type riffs. I'm posting this along with Smile because both are examples of records I can't say too much about other then, give them a listen I'm sure you'll adore them.

Tracks to prove my point:
The Entire Album (washing machine is a highlight for me, though, shhhh...)
Teen Age Riot/Bull In The Heather/Starfield Road/Washing Machine/Junkie's Promise/Saucer-Like/Becuz/Sugar Kane/Skip Tracer/Skink/The Diamond Sea

Wives With and Without Their husbands

2007-08-14T11:07:00.000-04:00

Dead Moon - Crack in the System

It is Garage? Is it old school R'n'R? It can't be Punk, can it? Whatever it is, it's definitely Dead Moon's overlooked 1994 release. This is a tough album to describe. Dead Moon is comprised of Fred Cole (of The Weeds, who you might remember as being a 60's garage act), Toody Cole (Fred's wife), and Andrew Loomis (a drummer). Fred and Toody share the vocal spotlight, though Fred is basically always singing he does share (Think of X, John Doe did most of the singing, right?) Complete with some of that Rock and Roll soul and sexuality, anger and understanding, guitar solos and some screaming, and of course, a reference to Jerry Lee Lewis -I give you Dead Moon - Crack in the System. Not for everyone - I warn you there is some scorching guitar work up ahead from a guy who sometimes sounds like Dave Thomas (see Non-Alignment Pact - Pere Ubu). Expect a fine blend of garage-rock mixed with some human heart and soul.

Tracks to prove my point:
Garage Rock: Poor Born and Cast Will Change
Heart and Soul: Too Far Gone and Killing Me

Free Kitten - Sentimental Education

1997 brought us this dream team side project which featured Kim Gordon (Sonic Youth), Julie Cafritz (Pussy Galore), Yoshimi P-We (Boredoms), and Mark Ibold (Pavement). Now, unlike the other 90's indie supergroup (No, not Temple of the Dog- I'm talking about Dim Stars), Free Kitten will provide you with more than just a few listens before you write it off as being "not as good as I thought it would be." As a testament to how good this group really is consider this, DJ Spooky appears as a guest on one track -my least favorite track! This record is more avant-garde then Sonic Youth, who I truly love but who haven't been avant-garde since they found their sound and stuck to it. The album presents various musical styles, and sometimes instruments (see Daddy Long Legs for the slide whistle) to ultimately give us a record we didn't know we needed but are more then happy to welcome home. Take a listen if you like any of the bands who provided a member to this group.

Tracks to prove my point:
Top 40
Never Gonna Sleep
One Forty Five

Post-Rock and Punk-Rock

2007-08-13T10:26:00.001-04:00

The first the post-rock side of things:

TheMobiusBand - One, Two, Unreleased

If you don't know TheMobiusBand then get ready for what I consider to be the best Rock/Electronica hybrid we've had since Radiohead. Bold claim, I know, but I've heard a lot of music that blends rock with robots and nothing has stayed with me like TheMobiusBand has. Besides, everything you hear on the album is played live -I've seen it ... 3 guys playing 6 instruments is pretty impressive. What I am offering today is the band's first two EPs, titled "One" and "Two", along with various non-album tracks that prove that TheMobiusBand only gets better with time. If you enjoy these two EPs, I highly recommend buying "Three", it is their absolute best work and is available here.

Tracks to prove my point:
From "One" - 3 or 4 Seasons and See N Say
From "Two" - 2 Kinds of Light and The Lights Are Always On

For the Punk-Rock side of today's post I give you:

The Desperate Bicycles - Remorse Code

The Desperate Bicycles are the epitome of DIY mentality. They pressed their own records, handled their own distribution, and promoted themselves enough to be the subject of a post in 2007, 28 years after the fact (yes your math is right, the album was released in 1979). Very much Out of Print the music of the Desperate Bicycles exists only on Cd-Rs, and Vinyl, though very, very few are lucky enough to possess them. If you have heard of this band then it is most likely due to Derek Erdman who has posted their entire anthology on his site. If you like what you hear then give Derek a visit and check out the rest. Take a listen if you like early punk, and I don't mean The Clash. A real punk enthusiast will enjoy this record.

Tracks to prove my point:
Walking the Talking Channel
Pretty Little Analyze

Stop me if you've heard this one before...

2007-08-13T09:53:00.000-04:00

Two bands. Two different styles. One post. That's the formula. If you like what you see have yourself a merry little download. If you like what you hear support the artist in someway. I am only here to introduce you to some new sounds. The law states that I anything you download from my site (which posts for educational purposes) must be deleted within 24 hours. Fascists.

If you enjoy my work, or have any suggestions for future posts, how to improve the site, or just want to say something feel free to use the comment tab.

-Abe S.