Rave On: An M. Ward Review

Whether you're new to Matt Ward cause you fell in love with She & Him, or a die-hard fan dating back to the lo-fi days of End of Amnesia, everyone can appreciate M. Ward's latest release (Febuary 17), Hold Time. From the initial track, Ward sets the tone for what seems to be a tribute to 1960's folk-rock country. According to a genre I made up for this review. In the spirit of Donovan, and even Dylan, Matt rides the dusty-road troubador vibe from beginning to end.

M. Ward - Rave On [mp3]

Track One, "For Beginners" would have been an appropriate title for the entire album, as it is easily his most accessible artistic effort. Previous devotees can appreciate a slightly sunnier, lighter collection (the road must be getting not so dusty, or the weather is shaping up). And yet the potential for drawing in new fans/the appeal to newcomers is apparent. I've logged my fair share of spins on this one, but I can't claim it as my favorite. I'm still very much enthralled with the somber sounds of Transfiguration of Vincent, the bluesy infectiousness of Post-War, and Matt's evolutionary milestone, Transistor Radio. Don't let the sunny-side up fool you though. Hold Time is chalk-full of the philosophical musings, sentimental lyricism, and downright clever quirkiness that makes Ward so captivating. If you can allow yourself to love the under-produced and less meticulously crafted side of a versatile artist, this is a must buy.

Songs We Love

M. Ward - Never Had Nobody Like You [mp3]

M. Ward - One Hundred Million Years [mp3]
M. Ward - Fisher of Men
M. Ward - Hold Time [mp3]

Bottom Line: B +

We recommend getting the record on vinyl if you can. Caution: this level of authenticity may turn your living room into a long and winding road. Yeah, a dusty one. Or possibly a front porch with a rocking chair, old guitar and flapping screen door. Keep on the lookout for some awesome cameos and guest appearances as well. We could tell you who, but there should be a little mystery left in our relationship.

P. L. And keeping the flame between us alive,
LtK

More posts are coming...

Oh My God!

Guilty Pleasure #1 meet Not-so-Guilty Pleasure #2. I'm talking about the return of Gossip Girl on March 16th and their always fun, if not consistently tasteful music supervision.



Promos like this one for the long-awaited new episodes of the soaptastic slut fest are all over my television. And what's even better than Serena slapping Dan, or Blair and Chuck making out? Badass UK rocker, Ida Maria's "Oh My God" narrating the previews with absolute success. Download the track, watch the awesome video from her site, and visit the space yourself to score another free mp3.

Ida Maria - Oh My God [mp3]

Oh My God / They Think I'm in Control,
LtK

I'm, I'm, This Is, This Is... Dream On

... A stuttering Stanley line I love from Kid Cudi's latest leak, a freestyle that remains untitled. Kanye West continues to preach for his prodigy, claiming his upcoming debut album is a classic in the making. Rolling Stone has jumped on the buzzwagon as well. So no pressure KC, none whatsoever. Time and lots of listens will tell, but I think at the very least we have a promising MC on our hands. Lupe move over, you're no longer the newest Chi-town prodigy on the block. Sidenote: Kid Cudi is really from Cleveland, OH but it's just so much more fun to say Chi than Cle-town. Dirty.

Kid Cudi - Freestyle '09 [mp3]
Kid Cudi - Day N' Nite (Crookers Remix) [mp3]
F'in amazing dance party track.

Download his free mixtape for Deep10 Here @ His Website. Stay tuned for more track samples as leaks make them possible. We'll be tracking his album release countdown closely.

It's a Deal, It's a Steal

Just a heads up that Animal Collective's latest genius, Merriweather Post Pavilion is currently available on Amazon for only five bucks! You may have read my album review (where I once again expressed my disdain for Pitchfork), but if not I'll summarize. BEST RECORD OF 2009 SO FAR. The Yeah Yeah Yeahs are threatening that title with their upcoming release It's Blitz!, but that's a few months off. If you haven't bought your copy of MPP yet, please treat yourself to a masterpiece today.

Animal Collective - Brother Sport [mp3]

Lock, Stock, and Two Smoking Barrels Soundtrack - It's a Deal, It's a Steal (Dialogue) [mp3]
The Field - The Deal [mp3]

Miss You: A Weekly Recap

... I sure have. Work has been crazy. But here's a quick recap, with great tunes to quench the weekly drought.

The Rolling Stones - Miss You [mp3]

First of all, the new Yeah Yeah Yeahs album is off the chain. You can trust us because we've listened to it top to bottom. Or don't and catch a preview for yourself @ their MySpace. Both leaked tracks "Zero" and "Heads Will Roll" have me reinventing obsessive repeat. "Heads" especially has got my heart on a string. A very happy belated birthday to Karen O! We heard you had the most awesome 30th birthday party. The theme: fifties prom meets eighties futuristic. Who is jealous they didn't score an invite? Me, jumping up and down. I will get the opportunity to see the fabulous trio at Sasquatch this year though. If you can't make it to the Gorge Memorial Day weekend, then get your tix for Coachella, Bonnaroo, or for really lucky individuals, the famous Oxygen Festival in Dublin.

Yeah Yeah Yeahs - Heads Will Roll [mp3]

If Pitchfork even dares to fight me on It's Blitz, my theory that only complete tools work there will be officially confirmed. Did anyone else have a problem hearing them slam N.A.S.A. with a 1.7 on Wednesday, then turn around and prop The Lonely Island's Incredibad as a 7.7 record the very next day? O-M-G. The entire Spirit of Apollo review is spent dissing on Sam and Ze's utilization of guest appearances. Over 40 to be exact. But I say so what? They have friends in high places. High, high places. And if Seu Jorge wants to sing backup on a track he just fucking can. Tom Waits isn't the type to be forced into the studio either, so why don't you get over your green-eyed monster Tom Breihan, and start appreciating the record for what it is. Sure there might be more artistic quality in the parts then the sum. At times it's overwhelming and usually best in small doses, but it's still an interesting and daring effort. Check out the following preview for the N.A.S.A. documentary - following the five year journey behind the record.

N.A.S.A. - A Volta [mp3]

If you haven't bought your copy of Dark Was the Night yet, get it. I won't post any preview downloads because the album is for charity. I know most of us (maybe just me) are broke, but there is always someone deeper in need. Poverty is relative. Purchasing the album is an opportunity to inspire education efforts on behalf of the global community, helping essential HIV/AIDS prevention information get into the hands of so many who need it. Reach for the activist inside, even if he/she just enjoys good music. You can still help.

War Child: Heroes is another great compilation released just
today. Don't miss Karen O. and the boys covering "Sheena is a Punk Rocker," Beck's take on Dylan, or The Hold Steady's unforgettable rendition of The Boss's "Atlantic City." Support some good causes by rewarding your ears. FYI: War Child: Heroes is only $3.99 from Amazon today.

Other breaking news: Ticketmaster and Live Nation are becoming one and the same. The two venue-booking bigwigs recently merged to form a single powerhouse (monopoly). They will now control nearly all of the nation's concert ticket sales, which will mean the alleviation of certain service fees, but also make it harder on the independent scout/booker. Thank you corporate America.

Over to LtK's iPod, where new remixes from DiscoTech, RAC, and Pet Shop Boys are making waves.

The Clash - Train in Vain (DiscoTech Remix) [mp3]
Robyn - Cobrastyle (RAC Remix) [mp3]
MGMT - Kids (Pet Shop Boys Synthpop Mix) [mp3]
Lady Gaga - Eh Eh (Nothing Else I Can Say) (Pet Shop Boys Remix) [mp3]

Also, PMA posted a new Timid Tiger track this week. Here's looking forward to their EP...

Timid Tiger - Gadget Girls [mp3]

Stay tuned today for a digression of the latest WOXY charts, praise for new M.Ward, Bat for Lashes, Lady Sov, and Beirut.

Missing you,
LtK

Blindsided

I've started about fifteen posts that have yet to be finished. Yay. But seeing as I have a day off for the first time in a week and a half, prepare to be blindsided with their unleashing. Till then, chew on one of my favorites from Bon Iver.

Bon Iver - Blindsided [mp3]

Bike down
Down to the downtown
Down to the lockdown
Boards, nails lie around

I crouch like a crow
Contrasting the snow
For the agony, I'd rather know
'Cause blinded I am blindsided

Peek in
Into the peer in
I'm not really like this
I'm probably plightless

I cup the window
I'm crippled and slow

For the agony
I'd rather know
'Cause blinded I am blindsided

Would you really rush out for me now?

Taught line... down to the shoreline
The end of a blood line
The moon is a cold light

There's a pull to the flow
My feet melt the snow
For the irony, I'd rather know
'Cause blinded I was blindsided

'Cause blinded I was blindsided

But Hey... I'm Big In Japan

Tom Waits magic time.

Tom Waits - Big in Japan [mp3]

I got the style but not the grace
I got the clothes but not the face
I got the bread but not the butter
I got the winda but not the shutter
But I'm big in Japan, I'm big in Japan, But hey I'm big in Japan

I got the house but not the deed
I got the horn but not the reed
I got the cards but not the luck
I got the wheel but not the truck
But hey I'm big in Japan, I'm big in Japan, I'm big in Japan

I got the moon, I got the cheese
I got the whole damn nation on its knees
I got the rooster I got the crow
I got the ebb I got the flow
I got the powder but not the gun
I got the dog but not the bun
I got the clouds but not the sky
I got the stripes but not the tie
But hey I'm big in Japan, I'm big in Japan, I'm big in Japan

Hey ho they love the way I do it
Hey ho there's really nothing to it

I got the moon I got the cheese
I got the whole damn nation on their knees
I got the rooster I got the crow
I got the ebb I got the flow
I got the sizzle but not the steak
I got the boat but not the lake
I got the sheets but not the bed
I got the jam but not the bread

But hey I'm big in Japan, I'm big in Japan, I'm big in Japan

I'm big in Japan, I'm big in Japan

I love this man. The end.

Love You Madly

Here's what spun on my Valentine's Day playlist this year. These are just songs I love to love (easier than complicated people love). I'm not the typical romantic, and sometimes tragedy is just as tempting.

Download a sample or pick up the zip here.

1. Mr. Oizo - Two Takes It
2. Hafdis Huld - Hometown Hero [mp3]
3. The Drifters - There Goes My Baby
4. Portishead - Sour Times
5. Kings of Leon - True Love Way
6. Cake - Love You Madly
7. Massive Attack - Teardrop (Live @ Abbey Road) [mp3]
8. Coconut Records - West Coast
9. Elvis Costello - Alison
10. The Magnetic Fields - Love is Lighter Than Air
11. Nick Lowe - When I Write the Book
12. The Do - Stay (Just a Little Bit More)
13. Coldplay - Sparks
14. Leonard Cohen - I'm Your Man
15. Kimya Dawson - I Miss You
16. Sigur Ros - Fljotavik [mp3]
17. The Smiths - Pretty Girls Make Graves
18. The Kinks - You Do Something to Me
19. Ella Fitzgerald - Love You Madly
20. Bruce Springsteen - I'm On Fire

Bonus Love Tracks (From one of my all-time favorite artists)
Otis Redding - For Your Precious Love [mp3]
Otis Redding - These Arms of Mine [mp3]

Love, Love, and L-O-V-E,
LtK

It's Not the End of the World: Fav Movie Music Moment #2

How fucking badass was Fight Club when it first came out? Still is. It made me alter my perception on what it means to be a sane human being. For instance, how much crazy does one person need to improve the quality of their life? Is sanity actually the sinister, and ultimately detrimental force at work? Does our conscience inhibit our potential? Though I probably should not have indulged my brain as much, applying actual life philosophy to any movie that Brad Pitt is in - no matter how much Edward Norton compensated - I will go on record to say that Fight Club's ending remains flawless. Jack tells Marla "Everything is going to be fine... You met me at a very strange time in my life," as they hold hands and watch the entire sprawling metropolis destruct. Cue The Pixies' "Where is My Mind" as the apocolyptic coda surges. Beautiful, in a single description.

The Pixies - Where is My Mind [mp3]

I am amazed by any director that can make my skin crawl with utter morbidity, inspiring simultaneous thoughts of disgust and comfort. Director David Fincher is so talented he can make me watch the world destruct with a smile.

Super Furry Animals - It's Not the End of the World? [mp3]

Sidenote: Fincher and Brad Pitt teamed up again to work on The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, recently nominated for 13 Oscars. Coincidance? I think not.

Peace, Love, and wanting Edward Norton to be my valentine,
LtK

P.S. I totally broke the first rule of Fight Club.

Let's Play a LoveGame

So it's Valentine's and what better way to celebrate single awareness then counting all the money you would have been spending on someone else. That, and rocking out to the new Lady GaGa video of course. Not only is it her best effort yet, but it certainly shames B Spears in the racy department. Leotards, disco sticks, bisexual makeouts, Michael Jackson crotch grabbing, and naked jeweliness. What more could a single person want?

O My Heart

I usually love any and all music recommendations. I'm like an open music box sans one twirling ballerina. I love being exposed to new bands, genres, and collaborations - especially ones that push me outside my small realm of knowledge. That being said, there are times when I find it difficult to take the advice from the forceful music aficionado.

Exhibit A: Twenty-something music photographer who comes into my store for a white mocha americano. (Sidenote: Gross) After trying to make a co-worker feel bad because she didn't know Jeff Buckley's life story, I cutely chimed in with some JB background to get his attention. My next move was bold. I went for the almost unanswerable question, easing into it's delivery with a compliment.

"You seem really into music. What's your favorite band?" *You should know I was interested less in his literal answer and more in how much his explanation revealed about his personality.

"Oh, Radiohead," he responded quickly and in a distinct, it-should-be-obvious-because-I-have-good-taste sort of a tone.

"Really," I continued thoughtfully, "Thom and the guys are amazing. So what's your favorite album?"

"In Rainbows, of course."

I stifle a giggle. Not at the selection, but the inflection. I'm now honestly curious and want to egg him on. Without losing conversation flow I continue the query, "Interesting choice. Why In Rainbows?"

He scoffs slightly, implying a.) that I should possess powers of premonition and/or b.) the answer should be apparent. "Because it's Radiohead at their best. It's the band's most mature effort." He really emphasized the mature part.
"What's yours?" he fired back.

I didn't pause long enough to be clever, just honest. "I love OK Computer a lot. That or Pablo Honey."

He proceeds to laugh in my face. Seriously, he chuckles. He then mumbles something pretentious as he picks up his drink. I realize then that it's time to capitulate before I sic my A-Team defense. He's one of those guys I could go forty rounds with and still, neither party would accept a KO, or even a truce. I had a slew of rebuttals alphabetized in my head, but instead of whipping the first 'A' out like an excited kid at debate camp, I demeaned myself slightly, chalking my choice up to age or some other BS. And after some stroking of his ego - telling him how amazing his job sounds photographing bands - he left me with a recommendation (more like an order) to listen to one of "his clients."

Now I realize that's a long winded explanation of a short conversation, but you have to know going into this post how much I did not want to like this band. If only to spite toolerific In Rainbows guy. It is a testament to the near-flawless production of this record that I conquered my bias, and fell head over heals in love with Mother, Mother.

Think Fiery Furnaces meets The Morning Benders, with all the quirky charm of I'm From Barcelona. Or if that's too convoluted for you just think amazing. Bravo white mocha americano. Your big head may make it difficult to move through most standard doorways, but at least it hasn't cut off blood flow to your good taste.

Sample some tracks off Mother Mother's sophomore album, O My Heart below and then go buy your copy at iTunes, Amazon, or *gasp* a record store.

Mother Mother - O My Heart [mp3]
Mother Mother - Hayloft [mp3]
Mother Mother - Wrecking Ball [mp3]

PL&MoreLove,
LtK

The Summer

This new track off Davy gets me primed for Singles Awareness Day. Also known as Valentine's Day. I'm certainly a fan of nonreciprocating love. For instance, my devotion to J Schwartzman (Coconut Records) is entirely one-sided and I couldn't be happier.
'

Coconut Records - The Summer [mp3]

Waiting for things to come through
I don’t know lately / How about you?
Wake me up when you get home
Crawl in bed with your telephone
And it’s always in summer / Back in Alabama
I miss you forever, honey / More than you could know

Waiting for things to come back / Sitting here so off track
I don’t know what to expect
I’ll always take whatever I can get
And it’s always in summer / Back in Alabama
And I miss you forever, honey / More than you will know
Waiting for things to come through
I don’t know baby / How about you?
Wake me up when I get home

P.S. Lily is coming, but landing is just taking a little longer than expected. Consult your flight attendant for further information.

L the single K

F@#k You

My full track by track breakdown of Lily Allen's It's Not Me, It's You will be rolling out tonight or tomorrow morning. Until then, here's America's favorite new excuse to say 'Fuck You.' Sometimes there's no other words. And at least through song it sounds so polite...

Lily Allen - Fuck You [mp3]

So you say / It's not okay to be gay / Well I think you're just evil / You're just some racist/ Who can't tie my laces / Your point of view is medieval / F@#k you / F@#k you very, very much / Cause we hate what you do and we hate your whole crew / Please don't stay in touch,
LtK

P.S. There is an actual pic of Lily flipping us the bird out there, but I thought the song was sentiment enough.

Dedicated Follower of Fashion

The Kinks - Dedicated Follower of Fashion [mp3]

Here I am shamelessly following the herd. And who is everyone buzzing about these days w/o fail? Little Boots, AKA Vic Little. Not that I don't get the hype, she has talent and promise in spades. But her material is still few and far between, difficult even to preview, so I've been reserving my ten stars for a full-length release. If there's one thing that's swaying me to hand out premature approval, it's evidence of LB's amazing live performances. Both Sheena Beaston and Tastes Like Caramel have awesome accounts / pics from her live New York show this past week. And if that's not enough to quench your curiosity, check her out quirky performance below, on Live with Jools Holland.

Little Boots - Meddle (Treasure Fingers Remix) [mp3]

Download a Free LB Mix @ her website

Sidenote: That awesome toy she has is supposedly a Yamaha Tenori-On. It looks really similar to a Monome 256, which I was obsessed with for awhile. Check out a live demonstration video of it's crazy beat sequencing skills (Listen for Daft Punk's Harder, Better, Faster, Stronger sample). Speaking of Daft Punk, head on over to Amazon mp3 today if you don't already have a copy of Musique Vol. 1 (1993-2005); it's on sale for $1.99 as the daily deal.

Wade In the Water

You should consider this my "How to Love Mavis Staples in Five Songs or Less" post. Don't worry, I'm not allowing Matthew McConaughey anywhere near this one.

1. Mavis Staples - Wade In the Water (Live) [mp3]

Though you couldn't tell from their lifestyle now, both my parents grew up in Church. For my dad this meant every Saturday night and Sunday morning in Catholic Mass. For my mother, it was weekly trips to her local Unitarian Church. It's not really a surprise to me that after years of forced services, catechism class, and nonsecular school, they ditched the big man in favor of atheism.

2. Mavis Staples - 99 1/2 [mp3]

This did mean gospel music was somewhat scarce in my childhood. The genre became a discovery for me in adolescence, and one band I immediately admired was The Staple Singers.

Formed in 1951 by patriarch Roebuck Staples (Pops Staples), and supported by daughters Cleotha and Mavis, as well as son Pervis, The Staple Singers recorded together for decades. Initially signed to Stax records, the quartet later moved on to lay tracks for Curtis Mayfield's label Curtom, as well as 20th Century Fox and MCA. Pops Staples passed in 1994, after sustaining head trauma in a household fall.

3. Mavis Staples - We Shall Not Be Moved (Live) [mp3]
4. Mavis Staples - Down in Mississippi [mp3]

Mavis Staples began recording solo around 1970. She was largely unappreciated as a vocalist however, until her last two releases, Have a Little Faith in 2004 and 2007's We'll Never Turn Back. The latter album, which is chalk full of gospel re-recordings and civil rights era anthems, ended the year on my favorites list. Imagine my joy when Mavis released a live album only months later. Hope at the Hideout perfectly showcases her vivacious spirit and heartwrenching vocals. Though she may never be compared to Aretha, Nina, Ella, or Patti, Mavis is a diva in her own right. It only takes one track for me, but here's to loving Mavis in five songs or less...

5. Mavis Staples - This Little Light (Live) [mp3]

Two Halves: Fav Movie Music Moment #1

Priceless filmmaking meets music supervision perfection. They fall in love and become two halves of LTK's favorite movie moments.

My Morning Jacket - Two Halves [mp3]

Meet Exhibit A: Office Space's unfortunately named Michael Bolton busts Getto Boys' "Damn it Feels Good to Be a Gangsta" on his way to work. This scene speaks to people who have found themselves in a similarily uncomfortable situation singing aloud in their car, especially to a certain genre of music we might be judged for. That, and it's just friggin hilarious. Editor's Note: Whoever made this video messes with the scene after the first take (slow motion, etc.), so all you need is the initial 27 seconds.

Getto Boys - Damn it Feels Good to Be a Gangsta [mp3]

P, L, and Feeling Gangsta,
LtK

Don't You Wanna See These Clothes On Me?

Everyone freeze. New Lady GaGa has arrived. Though the track "Fashion" was originally composed by GG, reality whore Heidi Montag released her own horrid cover upon the world. We all know that version must be a trainwreck. Now we have the chance to hear the track as it was meant to be recorded: Decently. If you don't want to buy one of the stupidest soundtracks ever made (Confessions of a Shopaholic is an album-only download) but still love you some crazy pop princess, you know the drill. Sure it fits the no-substance theme of the movie, but it's 2 min and 50 sec of purely fun fluff. Can I just say that there is no one more appropriate to sing this song?

Lady GaGa - Fashion [mp3]

... Madame love them Jimmy Choo

Dear Stephanie, make a super sophomore album soon,
LtK

Walking on a Dream

New Ting Tings Video for "We Walk" premiered. Like most everything the duo does, I love it. Sans performing on MTV; that's mostly reserved for tools nowadays.

Empire of the Sun - Walking on a Dream [mp3]
The Ting Tings - We Walk [mp3]

The Ting Tings - We Walk

Thunderbolts

That's exactly how I would describe a Thunderheist track... each one hits harder than a thunderbolt.

A.C. Newman - Thunderbolts [mp3]

Their much anticipated debut is about to hit stores, but since we snagged a copy early, I have yet to stop moving. Two parts dance, one part hip-hop, and all parts badass, this boy-girl duo is about to destroy the club scene in 2009. If you are one of THOSE people who thinks leaning against a wall is cooler than dancing, take three Thunderheist tracks as prescribed, and you'll be serving people up all over the place.

Thunderheist - Jerk It [mp3]
Thunderheist - Little Booty Girl (LBG) [mp3]
Thunderheist - Bubblegum [mp3]

LtK

A Boombox is Not a Toy

I hate that I'm posting yet another Lonely Island track but I can't help it, husband # 187 Julian Casablancas (The Strokes) busts out the chorus. He should really love me, no?

Some of Julian's lines:

Then everyone started to move / People rejoiced instead of financing  Preconceived notions were shattered / By the super old white people dancing ...

Everybody started out dancing / The music was way too powerful / A bunch of old people f@#king around us / It was disgusting to say the least / A boombox can change the world / You gotta know your limits with a boombox / But this was a cautionary tale / A boombox is not a toy

The Lonely Island ft. Julian Casablancas - Boombox [mp3]

Peace, Love, and outrageously sexy frontmen,
LTK

How Come I End Up Where I Started?

Grammys done sucked. But Radiohead always rules.

I'm (Still) On a Boat

The video premiered as a Digital Short on Saturday's SNL. You know who else made an appearance? The always incredible TV on the Radio as the musical guest. Sound quality wasn't at it's best, but they always bring the energy in spades. Catch their performance of "Golden Age" below.

TV on the Radio - Golden Age [mp3]

R U Professional?

Christian Bale is a number one tool these days. Allegedly assaulting his 61-year old mother and 40 something sister, then exploding at the director of photography on the set of Terminator: Salvation for all the world to hear. Not that I am quick to believe the accusations of estranged family members, but proof of his temper (search for the audio file if you have yet to hear it) is undeniable.

It's so sad, seeing as I use to curl up with my copy of Newsies and dream about CB. From Disney movie star to complete asshole. I guess the pressures of Hollywood will do that to you. Sources close to Bale say the tragic loss of friend Heath Ledger is the cause of Bale's depression and mood swings. Still, it's difficult to feel sympathy for Bale. Pinnacle of strength Michelle Williams is shouldering all the pain of losing Ledger, her child's father, and still managing not to cuss friends, family, and co-workers out.

The Mae Shi made this awesome (ly hilarious) track dedicated to Bale and his outburts, entitled "R U Professional." Bale's grandoise image of himself is the target, with lyrics like "Don't look too deep in his eyes / He can't hide / What's inside of his mind / And it might get a little bit ugly / And you might meet / An American Psycho." Deflate that head of yours Christian, I can't breathe because it's sucking up all the oxygen in North America.

The Mae Shi - R U Professional [mp3]

P.S. Have you heard that Chris Brown was arrested for assault? Have you also heard that his rumored victim is Rihanna? Both the stars' scheduled Grammy performances were cancelled, but reps are still keeping their lips sealed.

P.P.S. I didn't watch the Grammy's, and now looking at the winners I'm so glad I didn't. I might have thrown a metal object at my television.

LtK

Sure it Pops Like a Bubble, But I Love Life

French Food = Not my favorite. But I could eat a whole buffet line of Paris (and London) native Dan Black without flinching. Instead of accepting cannibalism (I went vegan this year), I think I'll just chew on his latest demo, "I Love Life." Can't wait for his full length release later this year. 2009 is SO alive and it's only February.

Enjoy yours ears... and your life.

Dan Black - I Love Life [mp3]

Watch the Official video for the (currently European exclusive) single "Yours."
Beware, it's known to inspire colorful house parties.

Help, I'm Alive

The new Metric album, Fantasies is due out April 14th and already the first single is killing it. Particularly in Canada, where it's knocked Kings of Leon off the chart-topping position. It's been four years since Metric's Live it Out hit stores, and after word leaked that Emily Haines and the guys were clocking some studio time in and around Seattle, fans rejoiced. After Emily's solo efforts, and much touring by both the band and Haines seaprately, it's good to hear the magical collaboration is back on board. Read the full article about the new alb over at Rolling Stone. Or check out Emily's interview with Billboard floating around on the web.

Preview the single "Help I'm Alive"


See a live snippet & help me decide what's more badass: Em's outfit or her tambourine


Preorder your copy from the band's website I Love Metric, beginning March 2nd. Update: Link added for the exclusive acoustic version of the single.

Metric - Help I'm Alive (Acoustic) [mp3]

Beating like a hammer,
LtK Out

Parade of Punk Rock T-Shirts

How awesome are these Go! Team t-shirts from Sub Pop? For some reason I've had the urge to rock my favorite bands on my chest lately. But not in a "I'm a tool who has good taste" sort of a way, more in a "I don't make better fashion decisions cause I spend all my money on LPs" kind of style. Any chance I get to support Sub Pop makes me happy too. Seeing as small indie labels from Seattle need all the support they can get.

Martime - Parade of Punk Rock T-Shirts [mp3]

I've narrowed my final choices down (seeing as I can only afford one, maybe). Besides the Go! Team, there's irresistible choices from Blitzen Trapper and Sera Cahoone.


Surprisingly, I was not a fan of the designs for Band of Horses (whose temple I worship at) or Iron and Wine. They were a little too blah for me; simple script or album cover repeats. I'll stew on the others though and see what happens. It might be cheaper promotion for me to just sing these artists' songs everywhere I go.

The Go! Team - My World [mp3]
Blitzen Trapper - Gold for Bread [mp3]
Sera Cahoone - The Colder the Air [mp3]

LtK

It's Not Me, It's Lily Allen

I am all about LA these days. I read a less then rave review of It's Not Me, It's You today and I couldn't disagree more. It inspired me to do my own track by track breakdown of the album, so prepare for it's unleashing tomorrow. But chew on these acoustic gems for nowsies. Elaboration to follow, but my personal favorite is "He Wasn't There."

Lily Allen - The Fear (Acoustic) [mp3]

Lily Allen - Who'd of Known (Acoustic) [mp3]

Lily Allen - He Wasn't There (Acoustic) [mp3]

Warning: Pastel Perfection Below.

I AM a weapon of massive consumption,
LTK

Something Kinda Ooooh

Ooooh... That's the monosyllabic mush my vocabulary turns into when I hear myself a fun cover song. Bloc Party does just that with this live lounge version of UK's neo-Spice Girls' (Girls Aloud) hit song. White Lies is probably on here just so I can have another excuse to talk about 'em. And First Aid Kit drives it home with a phenomenal cover of one of last year's indie favorites. The vocals are melodic, but just offputting enough to echo the folksy, raw feel of the original. So quality it'll make you forget it's not one of their own.

Bloc Party - Call the Shots (Girls Aloud Cover) [mp3]
White Lies - Love Lockdown (Kanye West Cover) [mp3]
First Aid Kit - Tiger Mountain Peasant Song (Fleet Foxes Cover) [mp3]

So apparently when they had the auditions for Girls Aloud qualification number one was "Supermodel who must look good in black kitten heals."

Bonus: Girls Aloud - Something Kinda Ooooh [mp3]

LTK

Kingdom of the Animals

... Or just a few Timid Tiger (s). The self-titled "electro hip-hop" quintet is making waves among the music community thanks to grand exposure and promotion by Pretty Much Amazing's fabulous webmaster, Luis. Though the guys hail from Cologne, they seem to be one import we just can't get enough of. Look out 2009, here comes Timid Tiger! If the remix below doesn't make you excited for their new LP (released again, with the help of Luis) then you might need medical attention. By the way, how badass are these outfits they're wearing? I can't decide if they're headed to a pow-wow or just out to play lazer tag, maybe a little of both.

Timid Tiger - Are You Gonna Go My Way (Lenny Kravitz vs. Ludacris vs. Notorious B.I.G.) [mp3]

Bonus Songs
Timid Tiger - Womanizer (Britney Spears Cover) [mp3]
Iron & Wine - Kingdom of the Animals [mp3]
Jackie Greene - Animal [mp3]

I'm tot going their way,
LTK

Starstruck

Kim Carnes - Bette Davis Eyes [mp3]

Her hair is Harlowe gold
Her lips a sweet surprise
Her hands are never cold
She's got Bette Davis eyes
She'll turn her music on you
You won't have to think twice
She's pure as New York snow
She got Bette Davis eyes

And she'll tease you
She'll unease you
All the better just to please you
She's precocious and she knows just
What it takes to make a pro blush
She got Greta Garbo stand off sighs
She's got Bette Davis eyes

She'll let you take her home
It wets her appetite
She'll lay you on her throne
She got Bette Davis eyes
She'll take a tumble on you
Roll you like you were dice
Until you come out blue
She's got Bette Davis eyes

She'll expose you, when she snows you
Off your feet with the crumbs she throws you
She's ferocious and she knows just
What it takes to make a pro blush
All the boys think she's a spy
She's got Bette Davis eyes

Bonus: Santogold - Starstruck [mp3]

Peace, Love, and Thinking this post should have been named after another awesome eighties song (Hall and Oates "Maneater"),
LTK

Sailor's Blue

Seabear - Sailor's Blue [mp3]

So, I don't have any words for this track. Andy Samberg has stolen them all, then inserted f**k after each and every one. I can't decide if The Lonely Island is truly funny or just extremely lucky to have capitalized on America's immaturity. I'm too busy singing along to lines about a horror film to care.

The Lonely Island ft. T-Pain - I'm On a Boat [mp3]

Favorite Line:

I'm on a boat man
It's goin' fast and
I've got a nautical-themed Pashmina afghan
I'm the king of the world like Leo

Bonus: The Lonely Island - Jizz in My Pants (Mexicans With Guns Remix)
[mp3]

I'm picking up on a not-so-sublte diss on Top 40 rap songs. But if you need a satirical look at rapper's lyrical stylings, check out Jon LaJoie's YouTube sensation "Everyday Normal Guy" instead. You won't know what hit you.

Jon LaJoie - Everyday Normal Guy [mp3]

Go Shorty it's your birthday / I wasn't invited but that's okay (See Everyday Normal Guy Pt. 2),
LTK

Sexy Boy(s)

White Lies = Amazing debut album, To Lose My Life. White Lies = Spectacular Live show (See video below; take special note of drummer going to town). White Lies = Sexy Boys that are just old enough for yours truly.

Air - Sexy Boy [mp3]

They so make me want to "be a good girl and do what [I'm] told."

White Lies - E.S.T. (High Quality) [mp3]

White Lies - To Lose My Life [mp3]

E, S, and T,
LTK

Close to Me

New Lady Sovereign is full of The Cure-sampling fun. A softer side of the S-O-V makes me think Jigsaw will be as unpredictably fun as I imagine. Have a listen to the sugary sweet "So Human" and see if you don't feel just a little "Close to Me."

Lady Sovereign - So Human [mp3]

The Cure - Close to Me [mp3]

But if I had your faith / I could make it safe and clean

If only I was sure / That my head on the door was a dream

I've waited hours for this / I've made myself so sick

I wish I'd stayed asleep today (The Cure)

I'm so human / It's okay
For me to / Feel this way
Doesn't it feel much better / When you've had a better day than yesterday (Lady S)

Diggin so hardcore on this track it's a crime,

LTK

This is Radio Clash

The Clash - This is Radio Clash [mp3]

Interrupting all programmes
This is radio clash from pirate satellite

Orbiting your living room,
Cashing in the bill of rights
Cuban army surplus or refusing all third lights
This is radio clash on pirate satellite

This sound does not subscribe
To the international plan
In the psycho shadow of the white right hand
Then that see ghettology as an urban Vietnam
Giving deadly exhibitions of murder by napalm

This is radio clash tearing up the seven veils
This is radio clash please save us, not the whales
This is radio clash underneath a mushroom cloud
This is radio clash
You dont need that funeral shroud

Forces have been looting
My humanity
Curfews have been curbing
The end of liberty

Hands of law have sorted through
My identity
But now this sound is brave
And wants to be free - anyway to be free

This is radio clash on pirate satellite
This is not free europe
Not an armed force network
This is radio clash using audio ammunition
This is radio clash can we get that world to listen?
This is radio clash using aural ammunition
This is radio clash can we get that world to listen?
This is radio clash on pirate satellite
Orbiting your living room,
Cashing in the bill of rights
This is radio clash on pirate satellite
This is radio clash everybody hold on tight

Bonus: The Clash vs. Stevie Wonder - Uptight Casbah [mp3]

Best. Band. Ever.
LTK

Livin' a Movie

Kanye West - Livin' a Movie (Unreleased) [mp3]

Raise your inner Comic-Con geek if you're excited for The Watchmen movie! It's been a long time coming, seeing as we got teaser trailers for the epic over a year ago. At that time, everyone who hadn't heard The Smashing Pumpkins rarity "The Beginning is the End is the Beginning" before, went ape bananas over the track. And rightfully so.

I've always maintained that the simple pairing of images to sound is one of the most powerful conduits between sensory processing and emotional output. That's why music supervision is so badass. Like a scientist playing with test tubes of combustibles, if you are perceptive enough to pair the perfect sensor and actuator, your chemical formula can provoke an emotional response from your audience. Even more BA (badass) is the certainty that your handiwork will illicit varying results among individuals. You work hard to produce one final product (like the trailer below), but combined with the unique, and usually unpredictable chemistry of different people, you get amazingly diverse receptions. Think of your favorite music moments in movies and TV. You're most likely not alone in your selections. And yet even those who agree with you on a scene/song's effectiveness, probably feel something entirely unique in response.

Now that I've gone all formulaic on your asses, how's about we take a peek at the official Watchmen Soundtrack, hitting stores March 3rd.

Twelve songs deep, the album mostly calls on classics from the past with a cover lead-in from My Chemical Romance. Although I am already prejudiced towards MCR (passionately not a fan), I can say subjectively that their reworking of Bob Dylan's classic "Desolation Row" makes itself easy to dismiss. Not only is Dylan's recording superior on all levels, but MCR's attempt to turn the lengthy Highway 61 Revisited classic into a punk-rock/life-as-a-teennager-is-so rough anthem (does this band make another kind of song?) makes my ears hurt. Just watch the video and you'll know I ain't lying.

Lucky for us, it's all uphill after track one. Powerful recordings from Nina Simone, Billie Holiday, Jimi Hendrix, and Dylan himself, more than make up for any initial disapppointment. In other words, if this soundtrack were a red carpet, it's full of all A-listers. At moments nostalgic, and other times romantic, I'm impressed by the daring production decision to allow classic songs to narrate a futuristic world. Not only that, but nearly all the tracks inspire a calm you might not expect to find in a movie about BA superheroes who get fed up with protecting the world. A movie we know will have plenty of explosions, carnage, and all that good vs. evil havoc.

Watchmen Track Listing
01. My Chemical Romance - Desolation Row
02. Nat "King" Cole - Unforgettable
03. Bob Dylan - The Times They Are A-Changin
04. Simon & Garfunkel - The Sound of Silence [mp3]
05. Janis Joplin - Me & Bobby McGee
06. KC & The Sunshine Band - I'm Your Boogie Man
07. Billie Holiday - You're My Thrill
08. Philip Glass - Pruit Igoe & Prophecies
09. Leonard Cohen - Hallelujah [mp3]
10. Jimi Hendrix - All Along the Watchtower
11. Budapest Symphony Orchestra - Ride of the Valkyries
12. Nina Simone - Pirate Jenny [mp3]

Sidenote: Love that they threw in Wagner's classic "Ride of the Valkyries." Yours truly played a nibelungen (slave child) in the Seattle Symphony production of The Ring when I was a kid. Going to hair, makeup, and wardrobe everyday when I was too young to appreciate it = golden memories.

So if I was peeing in my pants to see this movie before, the soundtrack has only exacerbated an unpleasant situation. Billie Holiday has only added to my excitement of seeing Billy Crudup all blue and superhuman. Bring on the inner geek! Who am I kidding? I've never been able to keep that sucker in.

Peace, Love, Soundtracks, and more of the Zack Snyder we love,
LTK

Stripped

Shiny Toy Guns - Stripped {mp3}

In honor of the Cherrytree Sessions, take it down a notch, relax, and get your love on for these stripped versions of our favorite songs. Taking off your clothing is optional. Lady GaGa would certainly encourage it. That, and some Bowie like face-painting. Viva La Glitter!

Lady GaGa - Eh Eh (Nothing Else I Can Say) [Acoustic @ Cherrytree Records] {mp3}

Lady GaGa - Poker Face [Acoustic @ Cherrytree Records] {mp3}

Bloc Party - Signs [Acoustic]

The Ting Tings - That's Not My Name [Acoustic] {mp3}

Sufjan Stevens - Chicago [Acoustic Version] {mp3}

Radiohead - Creep [Acoustic @ KROQ] {mp3}

Arctic Monkeys - The Bakery [Acoustic @ MPR] {mp3}

Iron and Wine - Flightless Bird, American Mouth [Acoustic]

Stone Temple Pilots - Plush [Acoustic]

Feist - Inside + Out [Acoustic] {mp3}

Ben Gibbard - Title and Registration [Acoustic in Chicago] {mp3}

Nada Surf - Always Love [Acoustic @ KEXP]

Foo Fighters - Everlong [Acoustic] {mp3}

Grizzly Bear - Reprise [Acoustic Version] {mp3}

Hot Chip - Boy From School [Acoustic]

Ziggy Stardust Love,

LtK

Disco Infiltrator

Don't worry this isn't a seventies music revival. Rather it's a long overdue shout out to one of my favorite new DJ sets. The three man tag-team known as DiscoTech: Danny Maze, Joe Maz and Gigamesh have defined the hot twentysomething nightlife soundtrack from coast to coast this past year. From DJ Am's infamous hotspot LAX in Hollywood, CA to Miami's own CAMEO and MANSION.

LCD Soundsystem - Disco Infiltrator [mp3]

Not only are their club appearances making waves, but publications like Rolling Stone have even picked up on their infectiousness. In October of last year, RS posted DiscoTech's remix of Kanye West's "Homecoming" on their website. I'm just loving the fact that this trio has enough disco balls to rework everything from The Police's "Roxanne" to The Rolling Stone's classic "Satisfaction." Still, they make time to hit up Top 40 tracks like Britney's "Circus" and Coldplay's "Viva La Vida." Get it while it's hot y'all. These guys are about to blow up and become too expensive for my live pedigree.

Coldplay - Viva La Vida (DiscoTech Remix) [mp3]

T.I. - Whatever You Like (DiscoTech Remix) [mp3]

Kanye West ft. Chris Martin - Homecoming (DiscoTech Remix) [mp3]

Michael Jackson - Thriller (DiscoTech Remix) [mp3]

The Police - Roxanne (DiscoTech Remix) [mp3]

The Rolling Stones - Satisfaction (DiscoTech Remix) [mp3]

Listen / Love / Buy More at DiscoTech's section of DJ Haven Crooklyn Clan Vault

You know the drill,

LTK

Lion in a Coma: An Animal Collective Review

Animal Collective's ninth album, Merriweather Post Pavilion hit stores January 20 to a slew of positive reviews. Hate to bandwagon the masses on this one, but I completely agree. After eight years together, AC is still inspiring the kind of enthusiasm and overt curiosity in listeners that made 2005's Feels such a success. Creepy and comforting, pulsating and yet hauntingly smooth, MPP is even knocking Strawberry Jam off my record player for awhile.

The first single, "My Girls" opens to some call and response vocals by bandmates Avey Tare and Panda Bear, paired perfectly over one of AC's more infectious, uplifting pop beats (courtesy of mixmaster Geologist). Don't be deceived by your foot tapping and head swaying however, this track is far from an unsentimental smash. Lyrically crafted with care, "My Girls" is the expression of one father's devotion to his wife and daughter; a man whose selfless determination to provide the necessities of love and shelter for his family warms your heart.

Is it much that I feel I need /A solid soul and the blood I bleed

With a little girl, and by my spouse / I only want a proper house

I don't care for the fancy things / Or to take part in a precious race

Children cry for the one who has / A real big heart and a father's grace

I don't mean to seem like I care about material things

Like a social status

I just want four walls and adobe slabs for my girls

Other favorites of mine include "Guy's Eyes," "Summertime Clothes," and "Lion in a Coma." Though it must be said that every track stands alone as stellar. I thought "No More Runnin" seemed like a mellow place for the boys to close out, but instead they concluded with a much more appropriate jubilant burst of soundscape, "Brother Sport." If you're not convinced it's buzzworthy after the first listen, allow yourself a couple more spins for the creativity of this masterpiece to penetrate.

Animal Collective - My Girls [mp3]

Animal Collective - Summertime Clothes [mp3]

Animal Collective - Lion in a Coma [mp3]

Animal Collective - Brother Sport [mp3]

Now that I've given Merriweather a very large stamp of approval, I can tell y'all there are a few (positive) reviews I took issue with. I enumerated my objections, but tell me if you disagree.

Pitchfork writes: "It's of the moment and feels new, but it's also striking in it's immediacy and comes across as friendly and welcoming."

I yell in objection: Animal Collective has never been an "of the moment" group. Although their experimental sound has become somewhat a formulaic success after several albums, I've always considered AC beyond the zeitgeist. They are destined to be the band we look back on, gasp, then reprimand ourselves for our former under-appreciation. How could we not have realized they were actually light years ahead in symphonic composition? They are the future, not the present, in music.

Entertainment Weekly writes: "Merriweather Post Pavilion won't land the band the opening slot on a Coldplay tour, it cleaves closer to 'Pitch's' more listener-friendly aesthetic, abandoning the self-indulgent impulses that sometimes muddied last year's Strawberry Jam..."

I yell in objection: First, Chris Martin should be so lucky. Second, I fail to see a single tarnish on the immaculate Strawberry Jam. That release was such a testament to Animal Collective's creative evolution. I understand that in juxtaposition to the odd intricacy of MPP, Jam may appear inadequate. Still that in no way "muddies" the unique accomplishments of the previous album.

Now that I'm ready to do some fighting / throw some bows, I'm going to turn on Pineapple Express and mellow out. Memorizing lines from that movie comes so naturally to me it's scary.

P, L, and "Feeling like a slice of butter meltin' on top of the ... big ol' pile of flapjacks... yeah",

LTK