Around the World with Death Cab for Cutie, Aaron Stewart-Ahn wrote the treatment for following the female subject around the world in three weeks...yes the band is playing in a freezer, why do you ask? They wanted to see their breath when they played...it was so dangerously cold a medic was on scene...new album is out May 13th...enjoy
Thursday, April 17, 2008
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
Big News, Jane's Addiction Fans!
A long-time holdout of any attempts to reunite Jane's Addiction, bassist and co-founder Eric Avery is now saying, "yes", to a one-off performance at the U.S. NME AWARDS.
The band will receive the Brit publication's "God-Like Genius Award"at an LA ceremony April 23rd.
Eric chatted with me a couple weeks ago, with the launch of his first ever solo album HELP WANTED. He didn't seem ready for to get back together with Perry and the boys, but he says in his blog, that he's happy to be honoring the band's past- but, that he's still conflicted about it.
Check out something new from Eric, and a blast from the shoplifting past from Jane's.
The band will receive the Brit publication's "God-Like Genius Award"at an LA ceremony April 23rd.
Eric chatted with me a couple weeks ago, with the launch of his first ever solo album HELP WANTED. He didn't seem ready for to get back together with Perry and the boys, but he says in his blog, that he's happy to be honoring the band's past- but, that he's still conflicted about it.
Check out something new from Eric, and a blast from the shoplifting past from Jane's.
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
Alejandro & Bruce
On June 24th Alejandro Escovedo releaes his new album "Real Animal". The first single is fantastic. It's called "Always a Friend". Here's a live version performed with Bruce Springsteen & the E-Street Band.
Friday, April 4, 2008
Music From the Shetland Islands
There's more to come out of the rugged Shetland Islands than just interesting looking ponies.
Astrid Williamson, who fronted the elegant Scottish trio Goya Dress for one album in 1996 released her solo debut BOY FOR YOU two years later.
After a couple of subsequent albums, BOYS FOR YOU is available for the first time in the US and Astrid, a singer blessed with a versatile alto and a songwriter with a penchant for cinematic, piano-driven melodies and intimate lyrics, sounds like she just crafted it.
Revealing, mysterious and sensual BOYS FOR YOU....Astrid Williamson- a name to watch in 2008.
Astrid Williamson, who fronted the elegant Scottish trio Goya Dress for one album in 1996 released her solo debut BOY FOR YOU two years later.
After a couple of subsequent albums, BOYS FOR YOU is available for the first time in the US and Astrid, a singer blessed with a versatile alto and a songwriter with a penchant for cinematic, piano-driven melodies and intimate lyrics, sounds like she just crafted it.
Revealing, mysterious and sensual BOYS FOR YOU....Astrid Williamson- a name to watch in 2008.
Thursday, April 3, 2008
Dave Matthews Band First Look In The Studio
Tim Reynolds joins Dave Matthews Band for their latest album, this isn't the first time, but it's been awhile.
Below is a first look of the band in the studio in Seattle. I'm almost positive this is only one of many to come.
If you are attending the Hershey Park Show or Nissan let me know! I'll be there! My Birthday is June 26th...so I'll be celebrating the 27th and 28th as well...life is short but sweet for certain.
Below is a first look of the band in the studio in Seattle. I'm almost positive this is only one of many to come.
If you are attending the Hershey Park Show or Nissan let me know! I'll be there! My Birthday is June 26th...so I'll be celebrating the 27th and 28th as well...life is short but sweet for certain.
Thursday, March 20, 2008
Kate Nash & Billy Bragg "A New England"
At SXSW last week Filter Magazine held a 3-day party of music...one of the acts included Kate Nash who was joined on stage by Billy Bragg for a few songs including Bragg's "A New England"
Who knew Bragg and Nash were friends...it's true
Who knew Bragg and Nash were friends...it's true
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
Five Years of Powerful Songs
Today marks the fifth anniversary of the war in Iraq. Whatever your views are on the war, it's hard to disagree that many talented songwriters have created inspired time capsules that a generation from now will look back on, much the same way we revisit the soundtrack to the Vietnam era.
Here's one from my favorite album last year, SIRENS OF THE DITCH. Jason Isbell has a way with the pen, with words that convey nothing partisan- just evocative phrases that capture life in its purest form- whether the hurt from a divorce, an experience with a Mrs. Robinson-like love, or capturing the hurt and love a small town feels for its fallen soldier. Jason has a way of encapsulating the American experience and DRESS BLUES does that in the most moving and profound of ways (just the line "American boys hate to lose" seems to say it all). It's less a protest than a tribute to a friend, a Marine. The music leaves it to us to interpret whether Matt would do it all over again.
What songs that relate to the war have moved you the past five years?
Here's one from my favorite album last year, SIRENS OF THE DITCH. Jason Isbell has a way with the pen, with words that convey nothing partisan- just evocative phrases that capture life in its purest form- whether the hurt from a divorce, an experience with a Mrs. Robinson-like love, or capturing the hurt and love a small town feels for its fallen soldier. Jason has a way of encapsulating the American experience and DRESS BLUES does that in the most moving and profound of ways (just the line "American boys hate to lose" seems to say it all). It's less a protest than a tribute to a friend, a Marine. The music leaves it to us to interpret whether Matt would do it all over again.
What songs that relate to the war have moved you the past five years?
Two From Tuesday
NOTES FROM THE NEW RELEASE SHOW
It’s another big week in new music. Step inside to check out some new and worthwhile material. It was an interesting show last night. I had music from around the world (France & Malta) and from across the USA. (Plymouth, Maine; Denver, Colorado, Brooklyn, New York) That diversity shows in the varied style and pace of the show. Let’s jump in.
Easily my favorite this week is Devotchka. These guys are fantastic. Their sound moves from gypsy folk to alternative to intellectual rock; resembling the Blue Nile. I was a big fan of their 1984 release A WALK ACROSS THE ROOFTOPS. That album had “Stay,” “Tinsel Town In The Rain” and “Heatwave.” I played “The Clockwise Witness” but I had several choices such as: “Basso Profundo” and “Transliterator.” Good Stuff. I really enjoyed the strings and horns along with the cleverly layered arrangements. They will be stopping in at the 930 Club in DC on May 16th. You can check them out for yourself.
A close second is the new one by The Rustic Overtones. They are a rock/jazz/funk septet from Maine active from 1993-2002, that recently reunited. The positive outcome of that reunion is the album LIGHT AT THE END. Sometimes they sound like Dave Mathews; sometimes Brett Dennen, but it is a nice collection of tunes. They have an East Coast tour planned with stops in our area that include the 8x10 on March 27th; The Santa Fe Café, in College Park on the 29th, then over to Arlington, VA for a gig at the Iota on the 31st. Plenty of options. I played “Troublesome.” It’s a great song and download worthy. And check out “Valentine’s Day Massacre,” they changed the album’s pace on this one and added the thoughtful touch of female back up voices. Well done.
Catch it all live Tuesday nights at 8:00 PM on 89.7.
Easily my favorite this week is Devotchka. These guys are fantastic. Their sound moves from gypsy folk to alternative to intellectual rock; resembling the Blue Nile. I was a big fan of their 1984 release A WALK ACROSS THE ROOFTOPS. That album had “Stay,” “Tinsel Town In The Rain” and “Heatwave.” I played “The Clockwise Witness” but I had several choices such as: “Basso Profundo” and “Transliterator.” Good Stuff. I really enjoyed the strings and horns along with the cleverly layered arrangements. They will be stopping in at the 930 Club in DC on May 16th. You can check them out for yourself.
A close second is the new one by The Rustic Overtones. They are a rock/jazz/funk septet from Maine active from 1993-2002, that recently reunited. The positive outcome of that reunion is the album LIGHT AT THE END. Sometimes they sound like Dave Mathews; sometimes Brett Dennen, but it is a nice collection of tunes. They have an East Coast tour planned with stops in our area that include the 8x10 on March 27th; The Santa Fe Café, in College Park on the 29th, then over to Arlington, VA for a gig at the Iota on the 31st. Plenty of options. I played “Troublesome.” It’s a great song and download worthy. And check out “Valentine’s Day Massacre,” they changed the album’s pace on this one and added the thoughtful touch of female back up voices. Well done.
Catch it all live Tuesday nights at 8:00 PM on 89.7.
Saturday, March 15, 2008
Missy Higgins Joins The Crash Test Dummies
Well, no, not the band...but, you'll see what I mean in a few seconds.
The Aussie songwriter is back with her sophomore release ON A CLEAR NIGHT- and it packs a punch, both in lyrical and vocal authenticity and melodies you'll be hard-pressed to purge.
Recorded virtually live to tape with producer Mitchell Froom (Crowded House, Ron Sexsmith, Suzanne Vega, Los Lobos) and featuring a guest turn by Neil Finn, Missy's crystalline, confessional voice draws the curtains on her diary- several breakup songs punctuate the record.
Check the wonderful strum and Missy being put through the wringer on STEER.
and a very, very catchy song, whose lyrics, I think, we all have related to at one time or another- PEACHY.
The Aussie songwriter is back with her sophomore release ON A CLEAR NIGHT- and it packs a punch, both in lyrical and vocal authenticity and melodies you'll be hard-pressed to purge.
Recorded virtually live to tape with producer Mitchell Froom (Crowded House, Ron Sexsmith, Suzanne Vega, Los Lobos) and featuring a guest turn by Neil Finn, Missy's crystalline, confessional voice draws the curtains on her diary- several breakup songs punctuate the record.
Check the wonderful strum and Missy being put through the wringer on STEER.
and a very, very catchy song, whose lyrics, I think, we all have related to at one time or another- PEACHY.
Thursday, March 13, 2008
If A Picture Is Worth a Million Words...
Than how many words would a video be worth?
My friend Fletcher sent along this awesome video for the latest from
What Made Milwaukee Famous and you MUST see it!
The Texans even have a famous friend making an appearance, so be sure to watch the final moments!
This is 'Sultan'
My friend Fletcher sent along this awesome video for the latest from
What Made Milwaukee Famous and you MUST see it!
The Texans even have a famous friend making an appearance, so be sure to watch the final moments!
This is 'Sultan'
Another List...Well Dick Rowe Passing On The Beatles Isn't That Bad
WTMD's 897 Greatest Albums of All Time Countdown is not the only countdown so far this year, Check Out Yahoo's Cheesiest Love Songs or better yet...Blender's 20 Biggest Record Company Screw-Ups of All Time
Dick Rowe turning down the Beatles is no longer the biggest music industry screw up..."the major labels took top dishonors for driving file-sharing service Napster out of business in 2001, instead of figuring out a way to make money from its tens of millions of users. The downloaders merely scattered to hundreds of other sites, and the industry has been in a tailspin ever since." (War against Web tops music biz "screw-ups)
Dick Rowe's screw up is now #2...some other interesting ones on there as well...check out the full list here
Well even though V-Day is a month in the past, here's Yahoo's Cheesiest Love Song...Show Some love B-more
Chicago - "You're The Inspiration"
Dick Rowe turning down the Beatles is no longer the biggest music industry screw up..."the major labels took top dishonors for driving file-sharing service Napster out of business in 2001, instead of figuring out a way to make money from its tens of millions of users. The downloaders merely scattered to hundreds of other sites, and the industry has been in a tailspin ever since." (War against Web tops music biz "screw-ups)
Dick Rowe's screw up is now #2...some other interesting ones on there as well...check out the full list here
Well even though V-Day is a month in the past, here's Yahoo's Cheesiest Love Song...Show Some love B-more
Chicago - "You're The Inspiration"
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Who Hates California Girls?
Shirley Simms....well, at least she is channeling the "hate" of Stephin Merritt, the brainchild- swengali and multi-instrumentalist behind The Magnetic Fields and that ridiculously infectious tune, "California Girls" from their aptly-titled DISTORTION.
Stephin, who, you'd think judging by all the indie-world buzz the band has been receiving lately, would be a young hipster, but refreshingly, he's a relatively quiet 40 Something. And speaking of quiet, what with all the feedback you hear on DISTORTION, Stephin and his talented collaborators (including Simms, who sings about half the tracks with her semi-androgynous, nasally pipes that bring to mind Green Gartside, Christine McVie and Kirsty MacColl- Stephin, in his husky Cavesque drawl, sings lead on the others), keep the tone down on the road...choosing acoustic instruments instead of distortion; Stephin, apparently, has hearing issues.
And, in case you haven't deciphered the lyrics of the extremely witty, fuzzy Beach Boys homage, California Girls, check out this live acoustic version and laugh along.
Oh heck, let's see one more! My favorite from DISTORTION: Drive on Driver. Brilliant ear candy!
Stephin, who, you'd think judging by all the indie-world buzz the band has been receiving lately, would be a young hipster, but refreshingly, he's a relatively quiet 40 Something. And speaking of quiet, what with all the feedback you hear on DISTORTION, Stephin and his talented collaborators (including Simms, who sings about half the tracks with her semi-androgynous, nasally pipes that bring to mind Green Gartside, Christine McVie and Kirsty MacColl- Stephin, in his husky Cavesque drawl, sings lead on the others), keep the tone down on the road...choosing acoustic instruments instead of distortion; Stephin, apparently, has hearing issues.
And, in case you haven't deciphered the lyrics of the extremely witty, fuzzy Beach Boys homage, California Girls, check out this live acoustic version and laugh along.
Oh heck, let's see one more! My favorite from DISTORTION: Drive on Driver. Brilliant ear candy!
Two From Tuesday
NOTES FROM THE NEW RELEASE SHOW
The one group that I really liked and has great potential is The Young Republic. They are an eight-piece band, five guys and three dolls, out of Boston, who came together while attending college. They just relocated to Nashville, TN. Their debut release is 12 TALES FROM WINTER CITY and last night I played Girl In A Tree. (The band’s defining edge? Their affinity for Pop Music of the Sixties with their skills in arranging and orchestration.) The link below is from a very small studio performance.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bZgri7IFV00&feature=related
Next is an Alt. Country/Americana, singer/songwriter that goes by the name Star Anna. She’s from Ellensburg, WA, which is in the High Desert Region of Central Washington, just East of the Cascade Mountains. She is supported by Frank Johnson, on Bass and back-up vocals; Travis Yost on drums; and Justin Davis on lead guitar. The boys go by the name The Laughing Dogs. This style may be too country-ish for some of our listeners at WTMD but she is one talented performer and I wanted to share that with you. Her new record is CROOKED PATH and it’s filled with well-written Americana gems, including the title track, If Wishes Were Horses and the one I played last night, Devil Don’t Remember My Name.
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
Paying Rent In The "Tower Of Song"
The dapper poet laureate of folk music was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame last night. The words to "Dance Me Till the End Of Love," "Famous Blue Raincoat," "Suzanne," and countless others are enshrined forever. Sincerely, LC.
What's YOUR favorite version of Hallelujah? John Cale? Rufus Wainwright? Brandi Carlile? Jeff Buckley? Bono? Or someone else?
What's YOUR favorite version of Hallelujah? John Cale? Rufus Wainwright? Brandi Carlile? Jeff Buckley? Bono? Or someone else?
Sunday School for Saints and Sinners
Last Sunday WTMD debuted a new program, Sunday School for Saints and Sinners. It's two hours of gospel, rock, blues and electronic music designed to start your Sunday looking inside ourselves and music. Here's the play list from the first show. Sunday School for Saints and Sinners airs the second Sunday of each month at 7 am.
Weather you're just getting up, or just getting home....It's Sunday School for Saints and Sinners.
Hour 1
Will the Circle Be Unbroken
My Very Special Guests
George Jones, Mavis Staples & Pops Staples
Let It Be
Soul Tribute To The Beatles
Aretha Franklin
We Are One
Meeting On Mission Street
Allen Toussaint
You Must Have That True Religion
Meeting On Mission Street
Mavis Staples
Alone, Jealous And Stoned
Ten Silver Drops
The Secret Machines
I Have Forgiven Jesus
You Are The Quarry
Morrissey
You Know I'm No Good [Remix]
Back To Black A
my Winehouse Feat. Ghostface Killah
It's Probably Me
Ten Summoner's Tales
Sting
Something So Right
Medusa
Annie Lennox
Be Thankful For What You Got
Blue Lines
Massive Attack
The Shining (Minotaur Shock Mix)
Perfecto Chills Vol. 3 (Disc 2)
Badly Drawn Boy
Gave It A Name
Tracks (Disc 4)
Bruce Springsteen
You Can Sleep While I Drive
Greatest Hits: The Road Less Traveled
Melissa Etheridge
Way Down in the Hole
The Wire: “...and all the pieces matter.”
Steve Earle
Hour 2
When The Saints Go Marching In
Live In Dublin [Disc 2]
Bruce Springsteen With The Sessions Band
Diggin' on the Road
Test
Patern Sonia Dada
Down By The Riverside
Down In New Orleans
The Blind Boys Of Alabama
Jesus On The Mainline
Ollabelle
Ollabelle
Have Mercy
Van Lear Rose
Loretta Lynn
Mercy
Rockferry
Duffy
Sexual Healing
King Of The Mountain
Kate Bush
Love At First Light
Volume 4
Joe Jackson
The First Cut Is The Deepest
Girl Group Sounds Lost And Found (One Kiss Can Lead To Another)
P.P Arnold
Kiss And Say Goodbye
Breakfast In Bed
Joan Osborne
Blessed
Colorblind
Robert Randolph & The Family Band
O-O-Oh Child (Nickodemus Remix)
Remixed And Reimagined
Nina Simone
Mighty High
In the House of the Lord: Live In Houston
Mighty Clouds Of Joy
Weather you're just getting up, or just getting home....It's Sunday School for Saints and Sinners.
Hour 1
Will the Circle Be Unbroken
My Very Special Guests
George Jones, Mavis Staples & Pops Staples
Let It Be
Soul Tribute To The Beatles
Aretha Franklin
We Are One
Meeting On Mission Street
Allen Toussaint
You Must Have That True Religion
Meeting On Mission Street
Mavis Staples
Alone, Jealous And Stoned
Ten Silver Drops
The Secret Machines
I Have Forgiven Jesus
You Are The Quarry
Morrissey
You Know I'm No Good [Remix]
Back To Black A
my Winehouse Feat. Ghostface Killah
It's Probably Me
Ten Summoner's Tales
Sting
Something So Right
Medusa
Annie Lennox
Be Thankful For What You Got
Blue Lines
Massive Attack
The Shining (Minotaur Shock Mix)
Perfecto Chills Vol. 3 (Disc 2)
Badly Drawn Boy
Gave It A Name
Tracks (Disc 4)
Bruce Springsteen
You Can Sleep While I Drive
Greatest Hits: The Road Less Traveled
Melissa Etheridge
Way Down in the Hole
The Wire: “...and all the pieces matter.”
Steve Earle
Hour 2
When The Saints Go Marching In
Live In Dublin [Disc 2]
Bruce Springsteen With The Sessions Band
Diggin' on the Road
Test
Patern Sonia Dada
Down By The Riverside
Down In New Orleans
The Blind Boys Of Alabama
Jesus On The Mainline
Ollabelle
Ollabelle
Have Mercy
Van Lear Rose
Loretta Lynn
Mercy
Rockferry
Duffy
Sexual Healing
King Of The Mountain
Kate Bush
Love At First Light
Volume 4
Joe Jackson
The First Cut Is The Deepest
Girl Group Sounds Lost And Found (One Kiss Can Lead To Another)
P.P Arnold
Kiss And Say Goodbye
Breakfast In Bed
Joan Osborne
Blessed
Colorblind
Robert Randolph & The Family Band
O-O-Oh Child (Nickodemus Remix)
Remixed And Reimagined
Nina Simone
Mighty High
In the House of the Lord: Live In Houston
Mighty Clouds Of Joy
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