Thursday, December 30, 2010

Tom Evanchuck (12/29/10)

A great way to ring out a year of great shows...  Tom Evanchuck was as superb as ever last night.  It was a nearly packed house at the Barking Spider, even as Rebekah Jean opened the evening.  This was my first time seeing her and I was very impressed.  And appropriately so, seeing Jessica Lea Mayfield take the stage with her for a song.  How fun.

Rebecca Jean (12/29/10)

Rebecca Jean (12/29/10)

Tom Evanchuck played a lot of new songs.  I was glad he had such a great crowd, but I have to say I miss those days when it was just 7 of us.  :-)

Tom Evanchuck (12/29/10)

Tom Evanchuck (12/29/10)

(btw, this was my first concert taking photos with my new Nikon D3100... still figuring things out)

Wednesday, December 29, 2010

New Amy Ray Song & Live Album

While i've liked the Indigo Girls for years, Amy Ray is still as relevant as ever for me.  Her voice alone just makes me smile... Props for The New Gay for getting this.

I also just ordered my copy of the new album, MVP:

amyray_mvp_splash2.jpg

Tuesday, December 28, 2010

Video Tuesday

Going a little low key this week, and with some beautiful videos, particularly the first two.  James Blake shows us the Limit to your Love.  Next up is another jj video for "Let Them".  Finally a video I've been sitting on for a while... Young Man's "Up So Fast."

Wednesday, December 22, 2010

Birds Sometimes Dance... Free Holiday Album

An impressive list of performers.  Download it here...

birds.jpg

Tracklist:

Blitzen Trapper – Christmas Is Coming Soon!
Therese Aune – Last Christmas
Parenthetical Girls – Festive Friends (Forever)
Laura Veirs – Through December
Moddi – Nordnorsk Julesalme
Evangelcials – The Last Christmas On Earth
Uno Møller – No Sounds of Snow
Le Loup – Shenandoah
Slow Club – Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)
Sufjan Stevens – That Was the Worst Christmas Ever!

New MEN - Video Preview

So exciting... Don't forget, MEN are coming to the Grog Shop on Sunday, March 13th. Mark your calendars - in bold.

Tuesday, December 21, 2010

Video Tuesday

Some interesting choices if I do say so myself.  Great songs with a diverse set of videos.  Kathryn Calder - Arrow; Broken Social Scene, a slippery (& sexy?) Texaco Bitches; Banjo or Freakout - 105

Monday, December 20, 2010

New Nico Vega Covers EP - FREE

I'd recommend checking out Nico Vega, especially if  you like something with a little harder edge.  I saw them open for the Von Bondies (2/20/09), and I'm so glad to see them putting out some new stuff.

Nico Vega have announced plans to release a new EP, Nico Vega Covers Nico Vega & Rod Stewart January 4th, 2011.  The EP features a collection of cover versions of the band's previous songs that have been re-imagined in a series of different styles as well as a cover of Rod Stewarts, "Young Turks" - for good measure.

Each week between now and New Years, the band will release a different song from the new EP as a free download.Fans can visit www.nicovega.com for the current available free download, "Million Years."

Sunday, December 19, 2010

A Nellie McKay Christmas / 2 Free Songs

What a holiday treat.

The Giving Tree Band and Nellie McKay spread the holiday cheer with a folksy cover of the classic "Here Comes Santa Claus" and Sinatra's "The Christmas Waltz"

The songs were recorded last Christmas. The Giving Tree Band and Nellie performed at a benefit together for Mercy Animals. After the show, Nellie came out to Crooked Creek studios, The Giving Tree Band's home and recording space. They played all night and recorded these two songs. All done live to tape and mixed in full that very night.

While you're at it, go ahead and download a new track from The Giving Tree Band too. A little piece of folk goodness

Saturday, December 18, 2010

Friday, December 17, 2010

Worried Men (12/16/10)

Last night we caught a friend's band at the ABC Tavern on W. 25th (Ohio City).  Worried Men is a group of talented local musicians covering some good ol' roots / folk / americana songs.  An arrangement of strings including the guitar, bass and violin (peppered with some washboard) always makes for a great live show.  Acoustics weren't great, which you'll hear in the clips below - which is also why I told them to check out the Barking Spider Tavern.  I'd love to see them play there... (or maybe in my living room).

Here are some other photos from last night.

Worried Men (12/16/10)

Worried Men (12/16/10)

Worried Men (12/16/10)

By the way, The ABC Tavern is a great little pub, GREAT food...

Worried Men (12/16/10)

 

The Dirtbombs

Start your Friday night off right... with Detroit's own.  "The Dirtbombs cover classic Detroit Techno tracks on new album, Party Store, due Feb. 2011"

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Wednesday, December 15, 2010

Beth Ditto Solo EP (Updated)

This should be hot.  Update:  Sample the EP Below.

The Gossip's Beth Ditto is to release a solo EP this January, with help from Simian Mobile Disco. James Ford and Jaz Shaw take production duties on the as yet untitled release, which will feature four new songs and be available via 12 inch and download next month. This isn't the first time Ditto has teamed up with the pair, having guested on the track 'Cruel Intentions' for last year's 'Temporary Pleasures' album. The exact release date of the EP is yet to be confirmed."

(From... Beth Ditto Teams Up With Simian Mobile Disco For Solo EP | News | DIY)

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Tuesday, December 14, 2010

Video Tuesday

I'm on it today, and this one's a doozy.  First off is the new Scissor Sisters video for Invisible Light. Jake Shears said they made a mistake and this song should have been the lead single from their album - I agree.  Next is the gorgeous new video from Adele.  Finally, a fun new video from a band I don't know, but would like to - The Suzan.

Monday, December 13, 2010

Peter & Paul (12/10/10)

I got a chance to see Peter & Paul again this past Friday, the first time without Mary.  I thought this show would be a little more sad, but was glad to see the guys were upbeat and still putting on a good show.  Though aging doesn't seem to stop, and you could see signs of it in their performance.  Still, you can't fault these folk legends who are still fighting the good fight.

Peter & Paul (12/10/10)

I've known Peter (via my good friend Tim) for over 10 years, and was able to do some early, pro-bono work for Peter's Operation Repect project.  I was honored to help, and thankful to know the wonderful man that is Peter Yarrow.  Here's some footage I got from back stage, as they were finishing.

And of course, the beautiful Playhouse Square - a shot you rarely get to take.  :-)

Peter & Paul (12/10/10)

 

Scotty Dynamo

I'm not sure why I'm posting this.  Not because I necessarily like the video - or the song - though neither are terrible.  I first heard of Scotty Dynamo through Break the Illusion (the over-the-top positivity is alluring).

He is cute.  But this video is the perfect example of what I would call "manufactured hipster."  Glasses, Flannel, PBR's, etc.  Part of me hopes it's mockery - but something is telling me it's not.  Either way - I'm still sharing it.  What say you?

Friday, December 10, 2010

Diamond Rings (12/2/10)

This show was as good as it was disappointing.  The only disappointing part was that we walked in half-way through the Diamond Rings set... Terribly unfortunate because it was only 9:30 and we  thought there were still some openers that would be playing.  SHOCKED.  Mostly because this show was one of my more anticipated shows of the past month.

I've been playing Diamond Rings a lot lately, and you might have seen his stuff on my Video Tuesdays.  Love the throwback electro-pop sound.  I love the deep voice, the lankiness, the torn tights & eye makeup, and that he uses@stayfierce as his twitter name.  He even dons a rainbow unicorn on his keyboard.  All unabashed, just like his music.  The best part - he's touring with his Dad (who I bought his record from afterward).

I was able to capture a couple tracks and really enjoyed what I heard.  This was really just an appetizer, and I'm definitely looking forward to seeing him again.

Diamond Rings (12/2/10)

Diamond Rings (12/2/10)
Diamond Rings (12/2/10)

Wednesday, December 8, 2010

Video Tuesday (belated)

Lil' late.  This week, you'll get treated to the new British Sea Power from their new album coming soon, Vallhalla Dancehall (Jan 10).  Next is the new Mynabirds video, appropriate for this snowy Wednesday.  Then finally, a disturbing video from Fujiya Miyagi's forthcoming album Ventriloquizzing (Jan 25).  Might be better to just listen than watch.

Tuesday, December 7, 2010

Cary Ann Hearst & Michael Trent Tomorrow Night!

These fine folks are a new find for me - but I can already tell this is going to be a great show in the (Beachland) Tavern...  See you there??

Cary Ann Hearst & Michael Trent: http://www.myspace.com/cahearstandmichaeltrent

Oh, and an obligitory photo for posting this link on my FaceBook Page!

CalendarPick-CaryAnnHearstAndMichaelTrent_b.jpg

The Modern Electric (11/24/10)

The headliner was actually the Floorwalkers, and Tom Evanchuck opened the show, but I really was only able to be catch part of The Modern Electric performance.  I'm happy to see these guys any chance I get... Phenomenal.

They'll be back at the Beachland this month, on December 15th.  Don't miss it!

Monday, December 6, 2010

Small Black (11/17/10)

This was one of the highlighted Spangle shows for last month.  Two good electro-pop acts at the Grog Shop is always a treat.  Opening was Class Actress, a band out of Brooklyn.  With only an EP under their belt, they are already have a well defined and impressive sound.  Take a listen:

Small Black took the stage.  Prior to the show, we were talking with a band member at the bar and I asked if brought the same stage lighting as last time.  He said they actually forgot it.  While it would have been a nice additiion, the show was still excellent.

Also, if you didn't notice, I'm switching YouTube accounts since I'm taking (& posting) more video.  Friend/Follow the new account!

Tuesday, November 30, 2010

Video Tuesday

It's a doozy.  The Go Team!'s T.O.R.N.A.D.O., a new single off Rolling Blackouts, due 1/31/11.  Next is a brand new find, thanks to MEN's Blog - Light Asylum with a haunting "Shallow Tears."  Finally, the obligatory, yet worthy new video from Kid Cudi.  Represent.

New Label for Melissa Ferrick

Melissa Ferrick

Melissa Ferrick is another one of my long-time favorite artists... Glad to see she's still doin' it.

Press Release: MPRESS Records Signs Melissa Ferrick To Multi-Album Deal

New York, NY - New York City-based MPress Records has just inked a three-album deal with indie-maverick (and major label veteran) Melissa Ferrick. MPress, which internationally distributes albums by art-pop songstress Rachael Sage and award-winning songwriter Seth Glier, also produces the NEW ARRIVALS charity compilation series, and has presented artist showcases at such industry events as SXSW, CMJ & MIDEM.

(Continued... Press Release: MPRESS Records Signs Melissa Ferrick To Multi-Album Deal)

Monday, November 29, 2010

Great Vinyl Video

Song ain't bad either...

Hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving weekend. I had a blast, and none of it involved a computer (as you can probably tell)...

Back to the digital grind.

Wednesday, November 24, 2010

Video Tuesday (belated)

Sorry, yesterday was crazy-busy... anyway - let's start off with some teen angst. First up is jj's "You Know." Next, let's bring things a little closer to home with Arcade Fire's new one from The Suburbs (Spike Jonze).  Finally, just to mix things up a bit there's a new Sufjan Stevens video, which is just "Too Much"

Joe Firstman (11/4/10)

This was another last-minute decision.  Fresh off a great dinner/show combination with Carrie Rodriguez, I wanted a similar experience at Wilbert's (again) and I was happy that Joe Firstman was there to perform.  Joe is a man's man singer songwriter, along the lines of Dan Bern or Bruce Springsteen.

We missed the the openers, Trey Lockerbie and Marianne Keith, but they were actually on tour with Joe and performing with him on stage.  Overall, I enjoyed the show and the dinner.

Joe Firstman (11/4/10)

Joe Firstman (11/4/10)

Sunday, November 21, 2010

Matt Costa (10/29/10)

So right after Carrie Rodriguez show, we raced up to the Beachland to catch Matt Costa.  I thoroughly enjoyed his last album, liked what I heard of this new one, and thought this would be a really good show.  It was...

He's worth checking out.  A mellow but mature sound, the likes you'd expect on Brushfire Records (Jack Johnson)...

Matt Costa (10/29/10)

Matt Costa (10/29/10)

eMusic Changes

I've been talking about eMusic from time to time here on my blog(s).  I think it's been a great indie music online retailer, despite changes that have happened.  I think what eMusic just went through was one of the most major changes, which was included the largest amount of major label music to date.  With that they've changed (increased) pricing, and lost some great indie labels.  This may be the straw that broke the camel's back - but then people have said that before.  Here's some more details...

As eMusic Embraces Major Labels, Its Indie Core Is Leaving | Techdirt

"As eMusic Embraces Major Labels, Its Indie Core Is Leaving from the as-if-that-wasn't-predictable dept eMusic built itself up on a reputation for being a great way to get access to all sorts of indie music. The service, which has been around for ages, and pioneered offering authorized DRM-free MP3s, worked by letting you pay a certain subscription fee per month, which allowed you to download a specific number of songs. Over the years, the price went up, which upset some users, but things really took a turn last year when the company suddenly decided that it absolutely needed the major record labels in its collection. It started with the disastrous idea of adding Sony Music tracks at the same time as a big price increase... and then quietly trying to remove features (and then more features) without telling people. It also appeared that eMusic was deleting comments from critics. While the company denied this, there was a lot of evidence to support the claim.

Since then, the company has also added music from Warner Music and (just recently) Universal Music... but it hasn't really helped. Its userbase has remained about the same, so if the new music is enticing new subscribers, they're being offset by defections. But, more importantly, it looks like some of the bigger name indie labels are pulling their music off the site, as they can't come to a reasonable agreement with eMusic.

So, if I'm reading all this correctly, it sure looks like the company did quite a deal: it signed up major labels to get music that most of its subscriber base didn't want in the first place. In doing so it took away lots of popular features and jacked up prices. Now, the service is losing the content of some of the biggest indie bands.

This seems like a case study in not knowing your own audience."

(Continued... As eMusic Embraces Major Labels, Its Indie Core Is Leaving | Techdirt)

Download Service eMusic Unveils New Pricing Model, Indie Labels Jump Ship : The Record : NPR

Get them while you can, eMusic subscribers. When it comes to a record store, what's more important, a comprehensive selection or a carefully curated assortment of options?

It's a question that patrons of the subscription download service eMusic are going to have to confront starting tomorrow. The company has never been able to compete with iTunes or Amazon for a huge share of the digital downloading pie. But it has been well curated and well regarded; a note on the company's website reads: 'eMusic recreates the benefits of the corner music store.'

Today seemed to mark a shift in eMusic's priorities. The company announced that it would be adding 250,000 tracks to its catalog, but losing the music of major indie labels Domino and Merge, and the labels under the Beggars Group umbrella, which include Matador, XL, Rough Trade and 4AD."

(Continued... Download Service eMusic Unveils New Pricing Model, Indie Labels Jump Ship : The Record : NPR)

Do I stay or do I go?

New Grog Shop Website... (& Documentary)

Congrats on the Grog Shop's new website. A nice upgrade... And while we're talkin' about them - have you seen this little documentary?

grogshopwebsite.jpg

Thursday, November 18, 2010

Machine Gun Kelly

If you haven't figured it out yet... I love Cleveland ,and anyone proud of this city is right with me.  I heard of Machine Gun Kelly a couple months ago from a free mixtape I downloaded and was impressed.  Well, today he just released another album, Lace Up.  Download it for free here:  http://tinyurl.com/28st3y6

Check out some videos below... (Great production RG Films!)

Oh, and he'll be giving away CD's tonight at Heart & Sole in Coventry from 7-9pm!

Wednesday, November 17, 2010

Carrie Rodriguez (10/29/10)

Nighttown is probably one of my favorite venues in Cleveland, but coincidently the one that I go to the least.  It's a favorite because of the cozy atmosphere, good food and an amazing repertoire of performances.  However, it's also a little pricey (for my budget) and I'm not as well-versed in Jazz - to really be able to take advantage of their performances.  However, when an artist comes along there that I'm excited about, and I make the commitment - then I'm *really* excited about going.  That happened with Carrie Rodriguez.  I missed her last time at the Beachland, but wasn't going to miss this performance.

We got there early, but still ended up with a side view seat.  Splurged a little on food, but worth it.

Carrie Rodriguez (10/29/10)

Carrie was a great performer.  Being a classically trained violinist from Oberlin, she was familiar with the area.  Since that time, she's "gone country" and has really embraced the folk/americana genre.  I've been hearing buzz about her lately, so this was the perfect opportunity.  Unfortunately, and unbelieveably, I don't think this was the right venue for her... well, for foot-stompin' folk music in general.  Still she sounded great and was a sweet performer.  Hopefully next time I can see her get her jam on in the Tavern.

Carrie Rodriguez (10/29/10)

Tuesday, November 16, 2010

Video Tuesday

A pretty eclectic mix this week.  First off, the new Lykke Li has been tearing up the internets.  Next up is a new discovery: Bonjay, with alternate version/dancer available on their MySpace page. Finally, another Ratatat video - just as crazy as the first.

Small Black / Class Actress Tomorrow Night!

Tomorrow is one of my Spangle "Featured Events" of the month... Small Black is performing with Class Actress opening. Actually, there's another opener, but the Grog Shop website is down for renovation, so it'll be a surprise I guess. I've seen Small Black before and really enjoyed them. I think Class Actress will also be amazing, so it should definitely be worth going out in the rain on a chilly November Wednesday night - seriously.

If you need further reason, here's part of a review from their show on Monday in Chicago

Small Black Drum With Class Actress' Scott Rosenthal in Chicago - Spinner

It may have been a Monday night, but Small Black were able to win over the crowd at Chicago's Empty Bottle, inspiring them to dance as if it was the weekend. Supporting their recently released debut album, 'New Chain,' the Brooklyn quartet played a nice mix of songs from both their new album and their self-titled 2009 EP that helped cement their buzz-band status."

(Continued... Small Black Drum With Class Actress' Scott Rosenthal in Chicago - Spinner)

Finally, some sweet-ass videos.  (also check out the videos I posted on Spangle).

(via Stereogum, via Gothamist>

Monday, November 15, 2010

Tom Evanchuck - House Concert (10/21/10)

I've been hesitant to write this entry because I haven't touched the audio and video recordings that were taken at this show (there was a glitch in the capture & transfer).  But I wanted to stop clogging up the flow and just post photos for now.  More media will be coming... I have an entire HD video and audio recording of this show!!  It's a lot to process and share, but I'm very excited to do so.

In the meantime, let me just say that this was one of the best experiences in my life... I finally hosted my first house concert.  I couldn't have asked for a better outcome either - where all my expectations were exceeded.  I only opened this show up to family & friends, and ended up with about 24 people in attendance.

Tom Evanchuck was always a no-brainer for my first show and he didn't disappoint.  Working with him was a stellar experience, as was his performance...  I really just can't wait to share some video and audio.  But for now, here are some pics (including some house setup pics).  Definitely more to come on this later...

Tom Evanchuck (10/21/10)

Tom Evanchuck (10/21/10)

House Concert Setup

House Concert Setup(few more pics here)

Wednesday, November 10, 2010

AA Bondy on Laundro Matinee!

I've been anxiously awaiting new material from AA Bondy, partially because I want to see him tour again (because last time was sooo good), but mostly because I wore the last album out I liked it so much.  But I'm more than happy to settle with these 5 great recordings on Laundro Matinee - for now.  Here are my two favorite.

Watch the other 3 videos, and download all the MP3's here.

Tuesday, November 9, 2010

Video Tuesday

We're going to bounce around a little bit.  Starting off with The Tallest Man on Earth, who's Love is All video is a collection of gorgeous, old family vacation videos.  But from here, let's step things up a bit with the new (and quite involved) video for LCD Soundsystem's Pow Pow.  Finally, a surprise video from a surprise Digitalism release (EP), one of my favorite electronic acts.

Thursday, November 4, 2010

Shazam!

An invaluable (but still free) app... for when the artist of a song just seems to elude you.

How Shazam Works To Identify (Nearly) Every Song You Throw At It

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There is a cool service called Shazam, which take a short sample of music, and identifies the song.  There are couple ways to use it, but one of the more convenient is to install their free app onto an iPhone.  Just hit the 'tag now' button, hold the phone's mic up to a speaker, and it will usually identify the song and provide artist information, as well as a link to purchase the album.

What is so remarkable about the service, is that it works on very obscure songs and will do so even with extraneous background noise.  I've gotten it to work sitting down in a crowded coffee shop and pizzeria.

So I was curious how it worked, and luckily there is a paper written by one of the developers explaining just that.  Of course they leave out some of the details, but the basic idea is exactly what you would expect:  it relies on fingerprinting music based on the spectrogram."

(Continued... How Shazam Works To Identify (Nearly) Every Song You Throw At It)

Tuesday, November 2, 2010

Video Tuesday (Best Ever!)

I've been extremely excited about this Video Tuesday... Robyn continues to show how awesome she is with this (hot) new video for Indestructible.  MEN finally have a video out and it's better than I could have expected from them (and the bar is high).   Finally, a new band that is just rocking my socks off right now: Lovers with a live version of Peppermint.  You really need to check these guys out!!

Robyn 'Indestructible' Official Video

Robyn | Myspace Music Videos

Lovers - Peppermint

Lovers | Myspace Music Videos

Friday, October 29, 2010

Robyn's Indestructable

And thank the gods for that. If you haven't already seen the new Robyn video for Indestructable - you're in for a treat.  I'm actually going to post it on Video Tuesday, but I'm sure you can find it a million places (like the link I posted on my Twitter account).  But I did want to treat you to the song and a good remix (via Discobelle).

Indestructible by robyn

Thursday, October 28, 2010

New Kid Cudi

Just pre-ordered this today!  Drops November 9, 2010.

(coming to Kent State University on Thursday, Nov. 4th)

 

Tuesday, October 26, 2010

Video Tuesday

This is my second Video Tuesday leading with a Diamond Rings video.  His new album Special Affections came out yesterday, and has been one of my more anticipated releases this Fall.  Next up are a couple new videos for some of my favorite bands/shows this year, Crystal Castles (8/22/10) and Peter Wolf Crier (7/22/10).

Peter Wolf Crier - "Down Down Down" from Northern Outpost on Vimeo.

Starfucker (10/14/10)

(this'll be a short one...) I had some really high hopes for this show, but unfortunately I was still a bit under the weather - which only demonstrates my level of excitement.  Particularly since I was excited about ALL THREE acts.

Opening... our very own HotChaCha!  I had yet to see them at the Grog Shop and this was the perfect chance.  As usual, they delivered a spirited performance.

The Octopus Project was next.  With a primarily instrumental sound, these guys were really able to put on a great show with some awesome visuals.

Finally with Starfucker, I was unfortunately running out of steam.  I really enjoyed the part of the set I saw (and was able to grab this clip), but I'll have to wait until next time around to really get into their live performance...

Monday, October 25, 2010

I Will Not Be Afraid of Women

... and I'm back!  The house concert was an amazing experience.  I'm already ready for the next one.  I'll be posting some media from it- hopefully in the near future.  In the meantime - here's a video from someone who would be one of my Top 5 ideal house concert performers of all time (probably top 3).

Dar Williams Feat. Gary Louris of the Jayhawks, 'As Cool as I Am' -- Video of the Day - Spinner

Highlight:'I hope I don't look crazy for having Gary Louris in the studio playing guitar without singing!' Dar Williams tells Spinner. 'He was up in New York and we yanked him into the studio to play and sing on songs we'd done for 'Many Great Companions.' Then he looked so good, we just made him stay.' "

(Dar Williams Feat. Gary Louris of the Jayhawks, 'As Cool as I Am' -- Video of the Day - Spinner)

Tuesday, October 19, 2010

Video Tuesday

Another Video Tuesday!  A particularly special one if I do say so myself.  First off is the new The Hundred in the Hands video - and I'm all about these guys these days.  Second is a new video and song by Mark Ronson (feat. Boy George) that I just love - including all the vintage 80's footage.  Finally is a new Kid Cudi track - excited to see how he pulls off Man on the Moon Part II, this is a strong start.


Monday, October 18, 2010

House Concert!

If you haven't already heard, I'm going to be hosting my very first house concert this week!  So posting will be a little lighter than usual, as I setup and prepare for such a venture.  This is something I've been talking about doing for a long time.  I'm glad to see it finally happen.

This first event is primarily for just friends and family, but if you really want to go, let me know (I may be able to pull some strings).  I imagine I'll be reaching out to a broader audience for future shows.

If you're curious who's performing... It will be Tom Evanchuck.  And if you've read this blog for any length of time, you'll know that he's been one of my local favorites!

Here's a video:

Wednesday, October 13, 2010

Two Great Options Tonight!

How much fun would this be...  (Happy Dog, 8pm, FREE)

Classical musicians bring their sound to easygoing venue | cleveland.com

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No disrespect to Severance Hall or anything, but the hottest place to catch the Cleveland Orchestra these days is a bar in the Gordon Square Arts District. OK, so the appearances by a group of players at the Happy Dog aren't about the music so much as they are about forging connections. No symphonies or concertos here. 466 Share

But the idea of first-rate classical music in an informal, neighborhood setting has both the performers and the public buzzing con brio. Why? Because it's just so different, at a time when many classical organizations are seeking out new models, and it's working."

(Continued... Classical musicians bring their sound to easygoing venue | cleveland.com)

For the more conventional music experience - check out OK Go at the Beachland Ballroom tonight!  (8:00pm, $15)

Tuesday, October 12, 2010

Video Tuesday

New La Roux! Not a fan of the product placements, but still think she's pretty great.  Luke Doucet (everyone's favorite Canadian) with his new single Thinking People.  And finally a new video from Blitzen Trapper!

Blitzen Trapper - "The Tree" from Daniel Elkayam on Vimeo.

Monday, October 11, 2010

The Thermals (10/8/10)

I'm not gonna lie, this night was all about The Hundred in the Hands for me.  After an excellent first time seeing them (opening for The Golden Filter), and a great new album, I was shocked these guys were even opening.  Made it there just in time for the first song, realizing how weird it is to hurry to the venue at published start time.

I think they sounded great - but this just wasn't their night.  I would blame probably 85% of it on this audience who didn't move a muscle.  I realize that they were there to see a whole different kind of band (it was kind of an odd pairing in my mind).  But I still hung towards the back and enjoyed my little concert-dance extravaganza, except for the times I was capturing video:

I wasn't much impressed with Cymbals Eat Guitars, though I wouldn't write off liking them in the future.

Cymbals Eat Guitars (10/8/10)

Once The Thermals took the stage, I thought the audience was going to light it up (literally - like last time).  But the crowd was still almost just as lame as with THITH.  Thermals still rocked the show, opening with a lot of tracks from my favorite, The Body, The Blood, The Machine.  We had other friends coming into town, so we didn't end up staying to see if the audience stepped up their game - I hope they did.

The Thermals (10/8/10)

Sunday, October 10, 2010

Try Hugging an MP3 - Article

Oh the good ol' days.

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Try hugging an MP3 - Entertainment

"Consumers have watched as the canvas for album art has shrunk from LP size to the possible option of no art at all. Record stores, even chains, were closed or forced back into the subculture, changing the experiences of buying and finding out about new music to cold, calculated processes that involve zero social interaction. Music has now been unofficially relegated as 'background' to other activities. It is no longer the centerpiece of entertainment. It is merely a soundtrack to activities such as jogging and walking to one's car. Most likely, no one will ever fondly recall the night they downloaded a new album. The ritual of standing in line at midnight to obtain a physical copy of a piece of music is now over. Thanks to MP3 technology, ritual, nostalgia, traditional physical music spaces, physical forms and aesthetic value are all aspects of music culture that are dead or dying. "

(Continued... Try hugging an MP3 - Entertainment)

Thursday, October 7, 2010

Biz Markie DJ Set (10/7/10)

Well, I bet it was a party if you stayed long enough.  The Biz didn't appear until around 12:15am... too late for me to hang around for something just starting.  I did catch this however, showcasing his love for old-school rap (theme of the night:

Biz Markie DJ (10/7/10)

I do have to say, it was fun to be in such a mixed crowd last night.  An unfortunately rare occurrence in my live music circles.

Cloud Nothings on Pitchfork TV!

This one couldn't wait for my Video Tuesday series... A big fat congratulations to local boys, Cloud Nothings for having their (great) new video make Pitchfork TV!

Make sure you Pre-Order Turning On, out on Tuesday!  Or better yet, head on over to Music Saves to buy it.