Where There's a Will, There's a Whalebone

Islands aren't just for getting lost. Sometimes there are no Oceanic flights gone awry, no Others, no Benjamin Linus, or unexplained black fog. Instead there are lovable Canadian indie bands who rename themselves from the Unicorns to something a little easier to take seriously. Montreal-ian cuties J'aime and Nick are as adorable as their former name implies, with all the talent and independence that comes with artistic evolution. Completely enjoyable, unpretentious, and sugary sweet, this duo delivers indie pop perfection with substance to boot. Check out their fully worthwhile new album Arm's Way, released May 20. Unless you're new to the Islands experience, in which of course I recommend picking up a copy of 2006's Return to the Sea first. You'll appreciate the small progression in one band's prog rock; strong orchestration, ironic lyricism, and evocative vocals that 1.) Make me want to learn French and 2.) Use that French to discharge sellouts in clever, cutting songs that make me smile, and others cry.

From 2008's Arm's Way
Islands - The Arm [ysi]
Islands - Creeper [ysi]
Islands - Kids Don't Know Shit [ysi]

From 2006's Return to the Sea
Islands - Rough Gem [ysi]

Chemtrails

New Beck. Two words that excite me more than you know. Even though I've been a smidge letdown by the last few releases (Odelay! was so amazing that it's been difficult to par up to), Beck's new track "Chemtrails" has all the elements to hype me up for a new release. The vaguely haunting vocals, the genre-breaking or possibly defining electronica slowbeats, and of course, two versions. Modern Guilt might be the new Danger Mouse-produced album title, but you shouldn't feel an ounce of remorse for enjoying this track. Check out the story of in-studio experience here. If you were a fan of the new Gnarls B, prepare to be dazzled by the product of this recording duo.

Beck - Chemtrails (Edit) [ysi] - 2:40
Beck - Chemtrails [ysi] - 4:23