What the Hell

Song: What the Hell
Artist: Avril Lavigne
Album: Goodbye Lullaby







My friend Felice, after introducing me to yet another heartbreaking Ray LaMontagne track, as well as the experimental and atmospheric sounds of s. carey, surprised me with her love for the new Avril Lavigne single, "What the Hell."  I took a listen, thought it was fun and cute, and some two weeks later... can't stop listening to it.  Thank you Felice... no really.

I haven't really followed Avril's career that much over the years since she broke into the scene as the "anti-Britney" in 2002, a description that she loathed.  I liked her persona and attitude, but didn't really take to her brand of bratty pop-punk.  Just not my thing.  Though I do remember really liking a single from her second record, "Don't Tell Me."  I remember hearing "Girlfriend" from her third record, which I thought was fun in a Kelly Clarkson/Pink pop-rock way, but didn't feel the same as I do about this new track, which has a similar sound.

It turns out that Avril has been working with some of the hottest hit-making producers of the last couple years, though it should be noted... the girl writes ALL of her songs.  That third record, 2007's "The Best Damn Thing," was mostly produced by Dr. Luke, whom is responsible for Ke$ha, the new Britney song, as well as multiple hits for Katy Perry, Adam Lambert, & Weezer.

This time around, she's teamed up with uber hit-maker Max Martin (Pink, Clarkson, everybody) for about half of her fourth album, "Goodbye Lullaby," which is being released at the beginning of March.  Martin lends his hook-addled assistance to "What the Hell," the first single and my latest obsession.  It's a killer pop-rock track that finds Avril going from good girl to bad... a persona that she's always sort of maintained.  It's energetic and upbeat, and man... take a look at the video below.  Despite the continued brattiness in her music, Avril is all grown up.

I didn't realize that Avril was dating Brody Jenner, which I learned doing a bit of research.  She broke off her marriage to Sum 41 singer Deryck Whibley, who actually produces the second half of "Goodbye Lullaby," which she describes as her most personal album to date.  Actually, "What the Hell" may possibly be a misnomer... as she's stated it's "the most pop track on the record." With the rest being a bit more piano-based and personal.  Hmmm.  Though, it does seem these pop-rock gems are her bread an butter.  She also recently penned iCarly star Miranda Cosgrove's new single "Dancing Crazy" which was also produced by Martin.

Guilty pleasure or not, "What the Hell" has hijacked my iPod, and made my mornign and evening commute a little more lively.  Rock on.  Thank you Felice!

Enjoy.

What the Hell


Alice


Don't Tell Me

Kaputt

Song: Kaputt
Artist: Destroyer
Album: Kaputt






Here's something nice and easy to start your (possibly) short week if you had yesterday off.  My friend Luis introduced me to Destroyer, a Canadian Indie-rock band fronted by singer-songwriter Dan Bejar.  Destroyer could be described as chamber pop, jazz influenced... I also hear a little David Bowie in there, though can't place what.  In listening to "Kaputt," their ninth album, I'm leaning toward describing them as a really edgy Kenny G.  Which sounds like a diss... it's not.

Destroyer was founded back in 1995 by Bejar, only to take a long extended break in 2000 while he went to Spain.  He since returned to Vancouver with a new album and hooked up with the New Pornographers on a couple projects.  Destroyer then began to get a following and continued their sonic development over the course of several albums in the mid '00's.  "Kaputt," their latest was released just last month.

I've only listened to "Kaputt," their latest, so I can't speak to the bands progression over the years, but in retrospect, the record seems obviously made by someone with a musical history and technique.  Their sound is, in a way, a lite-jazz take on indie-pop.  Bejar's voice reminds me of Benjamin Diamond and "Kaputt" does remind me of his latest album... small instances of electronic work, beats, synths, etc. used more for a swirling, laid-back feel vs. in-you-face production.  It's very very "nice."  Lots of saxophone.  LOTS of saxophone.

But again, this is no complaint.  Not my normal type of music, but there is something magical about Destroyer and their sound.  It's not an album filled with potential singles, more of a straight mood record.  Though it is not without its highlights.  I really liked the dreamy "Suicide for Kara Walker," and the standout track that Luis played for me initially, title-track "Kaputt."  That particular song really shows what the record is all about in the best possible light.  It's a beauty.  Check it out.

Enjoy.

Kaputt


Suicide Demo for Kara Walker


Savage Night at the Opera

Lotus Flower

Song: Lotus Flower
Artist: Radiohead
Album: King of Limbs






I love Radiohead, a band who realizes that they have enough interest in them, and enough artistic integrity to avoid all the typical marketing bullshit and just get their music out there.  After the brilliant idea of self-releasing their last album, 2007's "In Rainbows" as a pay-what-you-feel directly off of their website (they have never disclosed how much they made from the record) the band just five days ago announced the release of their eighth album, "King of Limbs," which comes today.

The album will be released physically in March, but you can purchase a download of the record now right from the bands website here.

"King of Limbs" is once again produced by long-time collaborator Nigel Godrich, and was recorded from 2009 to 2011.

Upon first listen it seems to have the same vibe and downtempo feel of "In Rainbows," though seems to heavily rely on experimental sounds, stuttered beats, and overall weirdness of the "Kid A/Amnesiac" period.  (Think Pulk/Pull Revolving Doors.)

Upon the release of the album today the band posted a very odd little video for track "Lotus Flower."  Check it out below... sort of looks like the guy from Jamiroquai stuck in a David Lynch film.  Take a look and you'll see what I mean.

After being a bit disappointed in 2003's "Hail to the Thief," the only Radiohead record that did so since their debut, I was so pleasantly surprised with "In Rainbows," and album that really grew on me and I consider one of their best. I'm a little surprised how much "King of Limbs" seems to sound like it... though I will still be holding my judgement.  Like an onion, Radiohead's music always peels itself back with more layers that you don't hear at first.  I remember listening to "O.K. Computer" the first time and thinking it was WAY too slow for the rock band they had set themselves up to be... and now I listen and only hear the crazy guitar work.  Slow?

Not to worry Radiohead fans... they haven't thrown out a "Shinny Happy People," this sounds typically depressing.

Enjoy!

Lotus Flower

White Horse

Song: White Horse
Artist: Jessica 6
Album: White Horse






While I'm still trying to get into the new Hercules and Love Affair record, I'm realizing that one of its biggest debts, is the vocalist that just don't hold it together like Antony Hegarty and Nomi Ruiz did on the debut.  I'd gone back and gave their debut a spin and marveled at how much they sounded alike, and how much that helped that album sound like a whole.

Antony of course had his own band, the Johnsons, but Ruiz did not, and has recently formed Jessica 6 along with Andrew Raposo and Morgan Riley who put a modern spin on 70's disco and 90's house.  A little like... Hercules and Love Affair.

Jessica 6 are working on their debut album "See the Light" for release this year and have released "White Horse" as their debut single.  I've been living with it for a couple weeks and  have really gotten into it.  A throbbing, spacey disco track that is immediately elevated once Nomi Ruiz' vocals float through.

I just found that Jessica 6 released an E.P. prior with a single called "Fun Girls," a sexy dance track with chugging guitar and once again, Ruiz' killer vocals.  The E.P. contains the single and a slew of remixes.  I'm officially looking forward to hearing more form this band, this sounds great.

You can find out more about the Brooklyn-based band on their MySpace page, Facebook, or official.

Enjoy.

Fun Girls


Good to Go (live)


Fader TV Studio Interview

Everything's Better

Song: Everything's Better
Artist: Lola Kite
Album: Lights






Lola Kite are an electropop/rock band from Amsterdam, Netherlands, "Lights," released this year, is their debut album.

I've been really digging this album though am having trouble finding much info on the band.  Their official site is in Dutch, and while you can listen to some tunes, there isn't much info on their MySpace page.  I'll just try my best...

Lola Kite are foremost a rock band, though they use electronic/electropop elements in their songs.  There is a 60's pop vibe in there, a little surf, and some driving beats, some even dated, to bring home their particular brand of pop music. It's an odd mix, and despite not knowing much but the music itself, I'm finding myself quite charmed.

Their influences seem a bit all over the place, yet begin to make sense with more plays.  From Radiohead, Animal Collective, and Panda Bear, to Love, The Zombies, and yes the Beatles... the band looks to the 60's for their pop-psychedelic vibe, while maintaining the indie rock edge.

First single "Different Story" is filled with hand claps and world music influences, while maintaining an airy, almost space-like feel.  I'm really liking the upbeat New Wave of "Everything's Better," which chugs along with a bit of a male-lead Go-Go's vibe until the chorus kicks in, and then I hear a little "Runaway" by Del Shannon.  This is a summer by the ocean track.  Fun.

I like this bands mix of old and new sounds, with the focus on pop song craft.  Give them a listen.

Enjoy.

Everything's Better


Different Story


Don't Stop the Music (Rihanna cover... crazy!)

Satellite

Song: Satellite
Artist: The Kills
Album: Blood Pressures





The Kills are an indie rock band comprised of American singer Alison Mosshart and British guitarist Jamie Hince.  They have been around since 2000 and are set to release their fourth album "Blood Pressures" in April.

I am only familiar with the bands last release, 2008's "Midnight Boom," a noisy piece of art rock that used minor touches of electronics and a lot of attitude.  (Think Yeah, Yeah, Yeah's)  I liked that record quite a bit, and the bands kitchen sink style of producing.  Messy, cluttered, and brash... yet gets under your skin.

I really liked singles "Cheap and Cheerful," "Last Day of Magic," and "Tape Song" from that last record.  You might know of their song "Sour Cherry," which garnered some attention for appearing in "Gossip Girl."

In prepping for the release of "Blood Pressures," the band have released the song "Satellite" as the first single.  It's been a bit of a slow grower for me, but as I've been listening to it over the past two weeks it has again... got under my skin.  It's a chugging, almost dirge-like rocker, with crunchy guitar, woozy vocals, and atmospheric chanting.

The track has got me excited for the new record, and re-listening to "Midnight Boom" as I write this makes me realize how much I dug that record... I think it'll get a couple spins today.

Enjoy!

Satellite


Tape Song


Last Day of Magic

Sing Me to Sleep

Song: Sing Me to Sleep
Artist: Fran Healy
Album: Wreckorder






I've been meaning to write about this record for several months now.  It got lost in the shuffle before the end of last year, the holidays, and then year-end best of lists.  Travis frontman Fran Healy released his first solo album last October to very little fanfare... though about the same was given to the last Travis album, 2008's "Ode to J. Smith."

I was a pretty big Travis fan back in the day despite the band's range being very limited.  They were Keane before Keane was Keane, they pre-date Coldplay, and released two truly amazing piano/soft-rock albums; 1999's "The Man Who," and 2001's "The Invisible Band."  There are great moments on every Travis album truth be told, and with Healy acting as the chief songwriter, it's no surprise that "Wreckorder" sounds very much like another Travis record.

Once of the things I've always liked most about Travis' music was Healy's voice, which on "Wreckorder" comes in like an old friend.  "Pretty" would be the best way to describe it, and the music follows suit.  Lead single "Buttercups," is a sweet love-over-money jangly ballad, but the song that stood out to me upon listening was a duet with Neko Case, "Sing Me to Sleep."  It has a dark, desert-at-night vibe to it, and Neko's vocals give it this haunting, beautiful quality... very nice song.

Fran Healy makes nice, pretty music in an age where nice pretty music doesn't get much attention.  Shame really... but here I am talking about the album some five-months later while I'm hung up on attention grabbing pop music.  Oh well.  This is a good record, take a listen to some of the tracks below.

Enjoy.

Sing Me to Sleep


Buttercups


Holiday

Born This Way

Song: Born This Way
Artist: Lady Gaga
Album: Born This Way






Over the two and a half years that has been Lady Gaga's entire career it's become clear that she is not a flash in the pan.  I've been really enjoying her since her debut "The Fame" and was pretty blown away by her mini-release "The Fame Monster" which was written as bonus tracks for a re-release of the debut.  But with "Bad Romance," "Telephone," and "Alejandro" included, some of her biggest hits... it was clear this woman had something going on.  And was just getting started.

Today sees the release of her new single "Born This Way," from the album of the same name which will come out in May.  "Born This Way" the album will either cement her as the mega-star of this generation or will show a few cracks in her rocket ship to relevance.  Everything she's done has been bigger than the thing before, a hard track to follow... so what of "Born This Way?"

Given her passion and commitment in 2010 to the repeal of Don't Ask, Don't Tell, as well as champion for her "Little Monsters," she's been an advocate to all who are different in whatever way.  And "Born This Way" the single is meant as an anthem for the freaks.  But how much can be done by a single pop song?

Well by years end in 2010 we saw the repeal of DADT... and in a wild out-on-a-limb prediction, WeCastMusic is going on record to say that by the end of 2011, Lady Gaga will have established herself as not only a superstar on the level of Madonna, Prince, and Michael Jackson, but as also someone who has influenced the youth of the world toward a new wave of tolerance and inclusion and away from hate and prejudice.  Overreaching?  Well listen to "Born This Way."

I've listened to this track about a dozen times this AM.  At first I was unsure... but now as I get to the end of writing this I can not only say that I hear another smash hit, but that this track solidifies this woman as a songwriting force.  She set out to write a club banging self-empowerment anthem for anyone who's felt sidelined by who they are.   And she's done it.

I'll say no more now... but I honestly think I've found a new favorite song.

Readers I may have officially drank the Kool-Aid.  But I'm officially Gaga.

Happy Fucking Friday.

Enjoy.

Born This Way


Grammy Performance

Under Cover of Darkness

Song: Under Cover of Darkness
Artist: The Strokes
Album: Angels






The Strokes are back!  After a long break that saw solo records and other music projects from various members, the band has gotten back together for their first album since the relative critical and commercial sidestep, "First Impressions of Earth" from 2006.  A five-year break and the longest the band has waited between albums.

I've actually really missed this band.  After their breakthrough debut record "Is This It" and their better (in my opinion) sophomore album "Room on Fire," the band changed the style of their music on their third album and despite two killer singles, "Jukebox" and "You Only Live Once," the album left me cold, like it did many.  It seems the band felt this hard, and put the Strokes on hold for five years, an eon in the world of rock & roll.

Their fourth album entitled "Angels" is purportedly a back to basics effort with the band already calling it their best since "Is This It."  From the initial guitar rush of first single "Under Cover of Darkness," this seems pretty evident.  There is a certain immediate comfort in the sound of this song that bounces me back to playing "Room on Fire" (and their debut) non-stop for a period of time.  I've liked the solo work that's come out during their hiatus, but it just didn't pop like The Strokes music... and hearing this new song brings it all back to me.  It seems Julian's vocals are mixed a bit different then usual... taking a bit of a back seat to the music... and it seems the vocal treatment that is usually given to his voice isn't there... or is different a bit.  It's hard to describe.

If you haven't heard their first two albums rush out and get them NOW.  You won't be disappointed, and it will give you an itch for "Angels" that will be appeased in March upon release.

Enjoy!

Under Cover of Darkness


Someday


I Can't Win

Hard Day

Song: Hard Day
Artist: George Michael
Album: Faith (Remastered)






Back in 1987 I received George Michael's "Faith" on cassette under the Christmas tree, along with a SONY Walkman.  At that point the single "Faith" was still dominating the charts and Michael was just releasing third single "Father Figure."  I remember going out hunting with my father and his buddies only to have "Faith" blaring in my ears on repeat the entire time.  I'm certain that good old George never conceived his pop-funk & R&B odyssey ever being played while stalking deer in knee-deep snow... but that's my life.  I wore that "Faith" cassette out actually... and had to buy a second copy.  The only piece of music I've ever had to do so.

This year, twenty-four after its release, "Faith" is being remastered and re-released as a two-disc set with bonus material.  (There is also a version with a DVD, and a Limited Edition Box set that includes a Vinyl pressing of the album as well as hard cover book and other special extras that'll run ya almost $170.)  The second disc contains a couple b-sides, remixes, and instrumentals.

"Faith" was Michael's first solo album after five years in Wham.  It followed two successful singles that were released while Wham was still together but billed just to Michael.  "A Different Corner," and then the smash "Careless Whisper," which was billed as "Wham featuring George Michael" here in the states.

Upon reading about just how successful the album was I was pretty blown away.  Take a gander at this:

-"Faith" was 1988's top selling single, where "Careless Whisper" held the title for 1985
-George was the first British act to have two top selling singles in the US since the Beatles did it in 1968 with "Hey Jude," after 1964's "I Want to Hold Your Hand"
-It garnered six top-5 singles, five of which went to number 1
-He's the only British artist ever to have four number one singles in the top 100 at the same time
-The album had 51 consecutive weeks in the top 10 (!!!) including twelve weeks at number 1
-It was the first album by a white artist to go number 1 on the R&B charts
-It was the best selling album of 1988 in the US
-It's the 52nd best selling album in US chart history and has total sales of 25 million worldwide
-It won Album of the Year at the 31st Annual Grammy Awards

Crazy impressive.

Six of the nine tracks from the album were released as singles making it the pop-funk & R&B "Sgt. Pepper."  From the then controversial "I Want Your Sex," to the peppy "Faith" and funk of "Monkey" as well as killer ballads "One More Try" and "Kissing a Fool" not to mention the originally dance-oriented production "Father Figure," which Michael altered when he liked the sound of the track minus the snare drum.

One of my favorite tracks from the album, the Prince inspired "Hard Day" was only released as a promo single here in the States, but never officially, no video was ever made.  The song COULD have been another huge hit for the singer I feel, though probably album-fatigue prevented it from being released.  Too bad, as I feel it's one that fell through the cracks a bit.  Though given the albums selling power, you probably know it even if it never impacted the radio.  I love that Michael sped up his voice (a-la Prince) for the "female" parts of the song.  It gives it a strange sexy vibe to it.  Hot.

Re-listening to "Faith" is a reminder of just how amazing Michael was as an artist, which has possibly been a bit marred by his personal struggles.  And while it does sound a touch dated, I think it really holds up.  I'm not sure it will exactly find a new audience with this re-release but it's worth noting anyhow as an amazing pop achievement.

Enjoy.

Hard Day (Live During Faith Tour)


Faith


Father Figure

Nobody Knows You

Song: Nobody Knows You
Artist: The Office
Album: Mecca






How quickly we forget...

Way back in 2006 (!!!) I highlighted the Chicago-based band The Office after my good friend Rob gave me a copy of their self-produced & released album "Q&A."  I loved the record and knew they had just signed to a new label (Scratchie Records) with plans to re-record earlier tracks, including those on "Q&A" for their "first" album.  Well, I forgot about The Office, until my friend Cicely mentioned "Q&A" and how much she liked them.  Oh right!

Well, since 2006 the band did release that first record, "A Night at The Ritz" in 2007 and also a follow up, "Mecca" from 2009.  "Ritz" was a blast from the past here and there with some of my favorite tracks from "Q&A"; "Wound Up," "The Big Bang Jump," sounding great with a couple new tracks I didn't know.  "Mecca," which I've also been listening to, is more of the same in the best way, guitar-driven pop that's catchy, crunchy, with memorable melodies all over the place.  Welcome back!

Admittedly, these two albums are running together for me as I've been devouring them simultaneously, save for those tracks that I did recognize from their previous album.  But I've been yearning for some rock music to connect with and these two albums fit the bill.  And, I was happy that the move to a label didn't hinder their sound at all, and "Mecca" proves they're not flashes in the pan... though I have not ONCE heard about these guys mentioned, even in indie rock circles.  But maybe I'm just not talking to the right people.

There aren't many clips available on YouTube but check out the below to get an idea of their sound.  I'm loving "Nobody Knows You," "Enter Me, Exit You," and "Everything You've Witnessed" from "Mecca."  Check this band out if you haven't.

Enjoy.

Enter Me, Exit You


Wound Up


The Big Bang Jump

OMG

Song: OMG
Artist: The Streets
Album: Computers and Blues






It was way back in March of last year that a reported leak of The Streets fifth and reported final album "Computers and Blues" hit the web and upon a couple listens, it seemed that save for a track here and there, Mike Skinner, who is The Streets, had lost the plot and like the last Streets record, 2009's "Everything is Borrowed" had boiled a unique sound he created down to indifference.  But that was just a leak, the actual album comes out this week, and is possibly the best he's done since his killer sophomore album, "A Grand Don't Come For Free."

While I don't quite understand Skinner's reasoning for dissolving the name "The Streets," something about being "fucking sick" of the name and the connotations it came with.  Since I'm not immersed in the London grime/pop scene I don't know what he's talking about... but after the disappointment of "Everything is Borrowed," maybe he just needed to regroup.  Which he has.

Not since that aformentioned heights of "A Grand Don't Come for Free" has Skinner's work sounded so vital and assured.  The more I listen to "Computers and Blues" I'm starting to think it's going to be considered either a fitting ending on a high note or even a "why did he stop now?!?!" missed opportunity  at great music in the future.  Regardless... listen to this new Streets album NOW.

It must be frustrating to feel like all future work is being measured up to a past glory but the truth is, "A Grand Don't Come For Free" was the perfect culmination of what The Streets could and should be.  Skinner is best at spitting story/songs about lower middle class working lives (and loves) so a concept album about searching for a lost thousand quid while dealing with blokes and birds on top of some serious catchy tunes and top notch humor worked.  The follow up was pretty good, but Skinner had become a superstar, so while the humor and beats were solid, something felt a miss from the king of blue collar suddenly coming into a lot of cash.  Despite that, "When You Wasn't Famous" was still pretty hysterical.

On "Blues," Skinner has figured it all out and gotten back to what he does best.  First single "Going Through Hell" isn't the banger that we've come to expect from the man in first single mode, it's more like a monster truck of a song with a big dark guitar riff and a call to arms to take control of your life despite the difficulty.  Things get practically sunny on "Roof of Your Car," an upbeat tune that ponders the growing technology of our world with a simple view of the stars.  The album is filled with Skinners ruminations on life, matched with some of his most upbeat and catchy music in years.  I'm loving "Puzzled By People," "Without Thinking," "Those That Don't Know," and "Soldiers."

When Skinner wrote "Dry Your Eyes" for "A Grand" he probably knew he'd taken his art to a different level, but probably didn't know he'd written a cultural anthem.  It's the heart of the album, and you couldn't fault him for trying to recreate that heartbreak for "Easy Living's" "Never Went to Church."  That heart-on-a-string songwriting is back with "We Can Never Be Friends," which relies on a simple beat and acoustic guitar.  But it's not the heart of this album.  That goes to the emotional, joyous, and very modern love song "OMG."  It's another story-song and filled with so much cute pulled-from-life moments and taps into Skinner's every-bloke in love bit.  It's also just as catchy as it is emotional.  I love it.

Thankfully, the one track that does remain from last years leak is "Trust Me," the song that really popped out to me as something new, fresh, and the right direction for The Streets.  It's the banger that maybe SHOULD have been the first single.  But is also great hearing as the second to last track as it sounds like a victory lap now, not a diamond in the rough as it did from last years leak.  The album ends with "Lock the Locks," a jazzy track that seems to be a fitting ending.

I'm really happy with this record, check it out.

Enjoy.

OMG


Going Through Hell


Trust Me

Better Off Dead

Song: Better Off Dead
Artist: The Sounds
Album: Something to Die For







I've been a fan of Sweden's The Sounds since their 2002 debut "Living in America."  They've always reminded me of Blondie, a dance-rock band with a dynamic blonde singer, in The Sounds case, the beautiful Maja Ivarsson.  Their fourth album, "Something to Die For," is set to be released at the end of March.  The first single, "Better Off Dead," was released this week.

Aside from single "No One Sleeps When I'm Awake," I was a bit disappointed with their third album, 2009's "Crossing the Rubicon," especially after it seemed the band really honed their sound on their excellent sophomore album, 2006's "Dying to Say This to You."

I've only gotten to hear two tracks from the new album but their both pretty excellent.  Title-track "Something to Die For" is a fun disco-rock rave-up, very Sounds, very fun.  A steady beat, toy piano, and some Cars-like synths churn together in a pretty irresistible New Wave package.  Fist single "Better Off Dead" is a bit different.  This one slowly grows once it begins, until a serious beat kicks in around :45 seconds in, and then explodes into more New Wave bliss a minute in. Good stuff.  And the breakdown about half-way through the track is pretty insane.  Nice!

Well, with two thus-far solid tracks already, I'm pretty excited about "Something to Die For."  The band hasn't had a breakthrough track yet in their career and maybe it's here.  We'll see if this fourth record has the charm.

Enjoy.

Better Off Dead


Something to Die For


Tony the Beat

Painted Eyes

Song:  Painted Eyes
Artist: Hercules and Love Affair
Album: Blue Songs






Hercules and Love Affair's 2008 self-titled debut ranked as one of my favorites of that year with their single, "Blind" being one of my favorite tracks of that year and several before and since.  A 70's disco throwback that also recalled late 80's house and something quite new and exciting.  New York-based DJ Andy Butler called the group a "project," pulling in a variety of vocalist, producers and musicians, most notably DFA producer Tim Goldsworthy and vocalist Antony Hegarty of Antony and the Johnsons.  I've been eager to hear a follow-up, and the sophomore set, "Blue Songs," was just released this Monday.

I heard first single "My House," a couple months back and was slightly underwhelmed.  It didn't have near the urgency of "Blind," nor the hooks, and while "Blind" seemed retro AND forward-thinking at the same time, "My House" just felt retro.  But it is now clear, upon hearing all of "Blue Songs," that there is a lesson in managing expectations here.  It's not really the same Hercules and Love Affair of their debut, and this 2.0 version has a different M.O.

This time around, Butler has teamed up with producer Mark Pistel, best known for his work with Disposable Heroes of Hipocracy, and Industrial heroes of the past Consolidated and Meat Beat Manifesto as well as producer Patrick Pulsinger.  Also new are vocalists Aerea Negrot and Shauwn Wright.  Now admittedly, nobody wants to be compared to Antony Hegarty because... NOBODY sounds like Antony, but I'm not really feeling the two new vocalists as they also don't hold up to the work of Nomi Ruiz from the debut.  But again, Butler has always noted that HLA were a "project," so this new band of collaborators, and shift in sound, should be pretty expected.

"Blue Songs" really goes for the late 80's House vibe and is culminated within the first single.  Despite initially sounding dated, "My House" does come alive on the album.  (Check out the equally retro video below.) A deep beat and fly buzzing noises start the track and soon make way for some soulful vocals that make the chorus sing.  "But my house is in order" sings Shaun Wright, a clever pun that seems like it should have been done before this.  I'm liking this more and more, despite it not holding a candle to "Blind."

I also like the moody, dark, opening track "Painted Eyes" that utilizes the strings found also on "Blind."  Their use could possibly be the segue from the sound of the first record to this set.  I'm not sure what Butler was thinking with "Boy Blue," which comes in halfway and almost drags the album to a complete halt.  It's followed by the also slow"Blue Song," but it's a bit of an improvement... a great early AM chill out track.  Things pick back up with "Falling," a chugging disco stomp that twirls with the best of them.

The last couple tracks pick things up and upon my third listen I'm starting to think less about the debut and more about "Blue Sings" itself.  So this one may require some good patience to get into.  Though, if you know nothing of Hercules, and are HUGE into late-80's/90's House... this record may be a revelation.  It all ends with an oddly limp cover of Sterling Void's "It's All Right" made more famous by the Pet Shop Boys version, "It's Alright."  It's a dramatic and slightly off-putting closer that sort of fits with how you feel when first digesting "Blue Songs."

But this one might be a grower.

Enjoy.

Painted Eyes


My House


Falling

Big Problem

Song: Big Problem
Artist: ANR
Album: Stay Kids





ANR are a Miami-based duo that merge elements of psychedelia, funk, and modern electro into a trippy yet immediate stew.   Very reminiscent of MGMT.

ANR are comprised of  Michael John Hancock (vocals) and Brian Robertson (keyboards, drum machines) changing their name slightly from when they were a four-piece and known as Awesome New Republic. (ANR is much better)  They have been garnering support by themselves supporting some indie heavy hitters on the road. (Animal Collective, Neon Indian, No Age, and Yeasayer.)  Their debut album, "Stay Kids," will be released this Spring.

Listening to "Stay Kids," the MGMT comparison is pretty overwhelming, and if I hadn't been so disappointed in that bands sophomore-slump album "Congratulations," I might be calling ANR a simple re-tread... but "Stay Kids" has all the elements I was hoping for from a follow-up to "Oracular Spectacular" but didn't get with "Congratulations."  But MGMT aside, "Stay Kids" is a pretty fantastic debut that should give them some buzz all of their own.

Title-track and opener "Stay Kids" builds upon itself with swelling atmospherics until it launches into some trippy Brian Wilson-esque wackiness.  Videogame bleeps and soaring vocals culminate into a pretty dramatic opener.  Things pick up tempo with the excellent second track "Big Problem," my current favorite.  A New Wave inspired rave-up with crunching guitars and hard-driving synths, and vocals that remind me of Miike Snow a bit.  I love it.

The album is pretty diverse in sound, from the stuttered crunk of "It's Around You," Depeche Mode-sounding "Holes," to the psychedelic pop of "The Endless Field of Mercury."  There is a lot going on here, and grows on you with repeated listens.

Check this one out.

Enjoy.

Big Problem


The Endless Field of Mercury

ANR - "The Endless Field of Mercury" from Jamie Harley on Vimeo.


Stay Kids

Freak the Freak Out

Song: Freak the Freak Out
Artist: Victoria Justice
Album: Freak the Freak Out (single)






Okay... anyone that knows me personally will find this one a little funny...

There's a good chance you've never heard of Victoria Justice.  She's the current teen star of the hit Nickelodeon show "Victorious."  Though in true Nick fashion, she has starred in or made guest appearances on many of the channel's shows.  First on the Jamie Lynn Spears show "Zoey 101," and then made-for-Nick movies including "Spectacular," (a musical) and "The Boy Who Cried Werewolf."

"Victorious" was created by actor (Head of the Class) turned creator producer Dan Schneider, who has been involved with many of Nick's live action shows, with "Zoey 101," "Drake & Josh," and their biggest live action hit "iCarly."  Like "iCarly," "Victorious" is a teen comedy that uses a lot of slapstick and is character driven.  The show revolves around a group of kids at a performance arts high school.

So why am I talking about a kids show?

Well... "Victorious" had their first "movie" (an hour long episode) back in November entitled "Freak the Freak Out" which highlighted the song of the same title at the end performed by Victoria.  I happened to be with my four-year-old nephew when the show debuted and heard him singing the song for days after.  For the holidays, a bought the song and put it on a CD for him and have heard from my brother-in-law that the nephew and a friend repeatedly reenact the end of the episode where the song is sung, and sing their little hearts out to it.  Very cute.

So again... why am I talking about this song on my music blog?  Well I've been listening to it since and... I kind of love it.  (blush)  Now I'm no stranger to pop music... but have pretty successfully drawn the line at tween pop of the Jonas/Miley/Disney variety and also haven't gotten into the pop songs of Bieber or iCarly star Miranda Cosgrove.  It's just not music made for a man in his 30's.  I don't hate it... I just don't really care... it's not made for me.  But "Freak the Freak Out," has been put into my rotation as of late and think the song is actually very fun in the pop-rock vein of Pink and Kelly Clarkson.  Actually, aside from lyrically being a little juvenile, I could hear Kelly doing this song.  She'd need a bit more edge, but the song has a "Since You've Been My Life Would Suck I don't Hook Up" vibe.

And the MORE I listen to it I realize how impeccably produced it is.  The light electronic beats sound a little "Empire of the Sun," the guitar work is light but effective... it's modern pop that's about ten times more melodic/catchy than anything on the last Aguilera record.  Fun.  The song was written by Michael Corcoran, Chris Abraham, Nick Hexum, Zack Hexum, and creator Dan Schneider.

I may lose some cool points (or readers) with this entry, but the four-year-old nephew, who's favorite songs include "Poker Face" and "Telephone," is his own little taste-maker.  And that's good enough for me.

Enjoy.

Freak the Freak Out

One

Song: One
Artist: Sky Ferreira
Album: One







Sky Ferreira is an American singer, model,  and actress that has had the "next big thing" tag stamped on her by a couple magazines and entertainment outlets as one to watch in 2011.

Ferreira got her start in her hometown of Los Angeles singing in church, and at fifteen, started her own MySpace page where she uploaded songs and built a small following.  As a fan, she reached out to production duo Bloodshy and Avant (Who are responsible for some of Britney's biggest hits; "Toxic," "Piece of Me," & "Radar" as well as make up indie-pop act Miike Snow) and they decided to work with her.  They have produced several tracks from her debut album which is scheduled for release sometime this year, including first European single, "One."  Here in the states, the first single will be "Obsession," which is a little more straight-forward pop-rock in the Pink/Kelly Clarkson vein.

"One" has been growing on me quite a bit, a mid-tempo eletcropop track with a swirling beat and stuttered vocals.  As a singer Ferreira doesn't offer anything quite that different, but she's either lucked out with Bloodshy & Avant, or there is more to discover with this girl.  I'm usually weary of model/singers... but this girl is a little interesting.  She's going to be the face of the new Diesel campaign, so we'll just have to wait and see which, modeling or music, makes her name.

Keep an eye out for this one.

Enjoy.

One


Obsession


Animal (Miike Snow Cover)

Shakin' All Over

Song: Shakin' All Over
Artist: Wanda Jackson
Album: The Party Ain't Over






Wanda Jackson is a rockabilly/country singer and guitarist whom gained popularity in the mid 50's and early 60's.  She was at the forefront of the rock & roll movement at the time, and is often referred to as "The First Lady (or Queen) of Rockabilly."  At the age of 73, she's about to release an album of new material, "The Party Ain't Over," at the end of the month.

As he did with Loretta Lynn back in 2004 on her excellent album "Van Lear Rose," Mr. Jack White of the White Stripes has teamed with Jackson to record a hard-rocking album that takes the sound from the past and modernizes it.

The duo teamed up to initially record a cover of Amy Winehouse's "You Know I'm No Good" as a single for White's Third Man Records.  Based on the success of the single, they decided to record a full album.  "The Party Ain't Over" is a series of covers that range in release from the early 1900's to 2007.  Including Dylan's "Thunder on the Mountain," and "Shakin' All Over" by The Guess Who.

Jackson is noted as being the first woman to record a rock & roll song, 1958's "Let's Have a Party," which happens to be the only song I knew of hers and one I often play at parties.  She was linked romantically to Elvis Presley for a bit, whom encouraged her to sing rockabilly when she shared a bill with him.  The early 60's found her rockabilly the most popular, but as the genre lost favor she turned to country music around 1965.  After a having a number one record in Japan with "Fujiyama Mama," she recorded a song in German, "Santo Domingo" which also went to number 1.  The success of that record spawned eight more German singles.

In the late 60's Jackson's material took a bit of a violent turn including the hit "My Big Iron Skillet," which promised murder and/or a beat down to a cheating spouse.  In the early 70's, at her children's request, she began attending church, discovered Christianity, and began recording gospel.  Jackson released one album in the 80's and then another in 2003, and now "The Party Ain't Over" eight years later.

Even at 73, Jackson has a healthy amount of fire, and White brings a killer band to assist her, consisting of Jack Lawrence (The Dead Weather/Raconteurs,) Carl Broemel (My Morning Jacket,) Patrick Keeler (Raconteurs,) Ashley Monroe, Jackson Smith, & Karen Elson.  The music is crackling, and while Jackson's voice is weathered, there is a raw realness to it that completely works.  As it's an album of covers it fails to pack the punch of "Van Lear Rose," but it's a solid rock & roll record and an amazing achievement for a woman of her stature, and age.

You can find out more about Wanda on her official site.

I'm not sure how many more female legends White plans to re-ignite... but the results are certainly worth the listen.  I've got my fingers crossed for a Dolly Parton collaboration.

Enjoy.

Shakin' All Over


You Know I'm No Good


Fujiyama Mama

Who's That Chick?

Song: Who's That Chick
Artist: David Guetta (Feat. Rihanna)
Album: One More Love






When "Only Girl (in the World)" came out as Rihanna's first single from her latest album "Loud," it was clear that she was going for a more club sound on this new record vs. the hard R&B of "Rated R."  This was further proven when this track, "Who's That Chick?" leaked shortly after.  I immediately loved the infectious beat and groove of the song and began to think that "Loud" might be right up my alley.

As with the new age of internet song leaks, much confusion over the track was discussed online.  It was reported that it wasn't for "Loud," (despite how well it fit with "Only Girl") and that it was for a Dorito's ad (wha?) and then that it wasn't a "Rihanna" track at all... that it was a David Guetta song, and she was just singing.

As it turns out, the track wasn't on "Loud," and that album turned more pop-R&B than the club-ness that "Only Girl" and "Chick?" promised.  It was released as a single by Guetta for his like fourth re-release of his album "One Love" to be titled "One More Love" and would be the lead single from that re-release.  But it also WAS used to promote Dorito's "Late Night" brand of chips (which I never saw or heard but personally would like to recommend their "Taco's at Midnight" flavor from that series.  Delicious, really.)

"One More Love's" bonus disc used it as its lead track and included other post-"One Love" collaborations such as Madonna's "Revolver," Kelly Rowland's "Commander," and Kelis' "Acapella."  And actually, if you have not yet gotten Guetta's album but like his brand of infectious pop-club tracks... this is a great version to get as the bonus tracks are pretty stellar, and fit with the rest of the album.

Rihanna apparently was looking for more "substance" for "Loud," and while lyrically "Chick?" is admittedly just a dumb "she's sexy on the dancefloor" song... there isn't anything else, save for "Only Girl," that got me moving like "Who's That Chick?" does from her record.  I think it has enormous hit potential, but is getting lost without official promotion from her.  Well, I've been loving it for months now, so here is my shout out... this one will get ya movin'.

Enjoy.

Who's That Chick

Schizophrenia

Song: Schizophrenia
Artist: Jukebox the Ghost
Album: Everything Under the Sun







I've been really digging this song the past few weeks and just have to share...

Jukebox the Ghost are a Washington DC-born, Philladelphia-based three-piece whom formed in 2003.  The band consists of Ben Thornewell (vocals & Piano,) Tommy Siegal (vocals & guitar,) and Jesse Kristin (drums.)  Their sound can best be described as off-beat piano-based pop in the vein of Ben Folds (whom they have opened for.)  "Everything Under the Sun" is their second album released last September after their debut, "Let Live and Let Ghosts" came out in 2008.

First track and standout "Schizophrenia" is an infectious slice of pop bliss that reminds me of 80's bands like Prefab Sprout and (slightly) Tears for Fears.  The song has off-beat hit written all over it... but it somehow has not caught on at alternative radio.

"Everything Under the Sun" is filled with catchy little ditties that, if "Schizophrenia" floats your boat... you'll totally dig.  "Half Crazy" is a guitar-based Barenaked Ladies-esque rocker, "Empire" sounds quite a bit like Ben Folds, and "Mistletoe" seems to turn part of the melody from "Jack U Off" and turns it into a piano-based love ballad.  Am I wrong there?

Jukebox the Ghost are the type of band I haven' listened to in a number of years, but there is a strong sense of songwriting and just pure joy in making music from their work.  I'm happy to have stumbled upon them.

Enjoy.

Schizophrenia


Half Crazy


Mistletoe