Haven’t done a “new on the nets” round up in a while so I thought I would plunder other blogs and find out the good stuff and post it here.  Rules of the jungle baby.

• We Listen For You had their (now annual?) Showcase at SXSW and once again did it on the acoustic tip.  I can appreciate this.  I also appreciate Bro. Stephen, Radical Dads, Conveyer, Dent May, Miracles of Modern Science, Kevin Barnes and The Henry Clay People taking part.  Watch some video from the event on the recap HERE.

• HearYa has given the stamp of approval to Field Report (nee Conrad Plymouth) and I have to agree.  Already pretty much liking whatever Christopher Porterfield has done it does stand to reason.  Need proof?

• The new album from Cold Specks is fast approaching.  The album has been in the works for a long time and the release can’t come soon enough.  Quick Before It Melts had the latest track “Winter Solstice” up on his blog in anticipation of May 22nd release of I Predict A Graceful Expulsion.  Listen.

• Next we have Draw Us Lines with their own event for the amazing Jennifer O’Connor.  They posted a preview of the show they helped put on from this past week (so…then…here is your…ahhh…heads up??).  Always enjoyed O’Connor and so then I also say thanks for the heads up on this little beauty of a track.
  

• BoyHowdy over at Cover Lay Down did a bit of a recap of the Couch by Couchwest “Festival” and we (Yer Bird Records) got a shout out from him as well.  Check out their recap HERE.  As we had the amazing Hezekiah Jones video exclusive to CXCW for the festival, there was no embed of it on the Cover Lay Down post…so then, here is the Chris Bathgate cover from Hezekiah Jones’ most recent album.
  Hezekiah Jones :: Last Parade on Ann Street (Chris Bathgate Cover – CXCW 2012) from Yer Bird Records on Vimeo.

• So you have heard me yammering about the Kim Janssen album Ancient Crime a few times (currently my favourite overall album of 2012) and Snowstar Records has been tweeting/posting about videos for the album, so I had to check it out.  They just posted the stunning video for the track Blyth Farjeon Choir.  Might not be for everyone, but it is beautifully shot and it is a moving track.  Watch below.
  

~~~

There you have it.  Just me catching up on what others are doing.  Others are doing quite well apparently…

~Smansmith

“So recently I went out and took what was rightfully mine.  It doesn’t matter that they had it first!” – overheard while making this post…

Thought I would share a couple of songs that I have been playing that I found from other blogs.  I mean, I’m just like everyone else who visits blogs – always looking for some tunes and now that I have them I’m going tell you about them as well.   The blogs in question here are the fantastic Vocal Nerd Rodeo and the amazing 5 Score Pachyderm.  Lets look at the music they brought to me, shall we?

Ben over at Vocal Nerd Rodeo had a post on a band named Churchill and a song called “The Only One”.  It was simply good, it made me feel of spring and warmer days and it was getting a fair amount of play.  Maybe it was the crazy catchy chorus, the light hearted melody that took a sad bastard like me out of a funk, but mostly I think it was the accordion.  See the original post on VNR HERE and watch the video below:
The Only One

Churchill | Myspace Music Videos

~~

Next we have 5 Score Pachyderm with a mix-tape from early February that had a stand out track (for me) in the Jeremiah Nelson (w/ Heidi Spencer) track “Show to Show” from Nelson’s upcoming album “Drugs to Make You Sober” to be released this March.  The song is essentially a lone acoustic track and it is stunning.  It’s simple, but simply perfect – its a great compliment to the upcoming album because it isn’t exclusively a hushed folk album – so it shows the chops of Nelson.  Please take a visit to the original post for the full mix-tape on 5SP HERE and listen to the song below:

So take a listen to Churchill and Jeremiah Nelson as they both have upcoming albums and keep an eye on Vocal Nerd Rodeo and 5 Score Pachyderm for more great musical finds.

~Smansmith

So my blogger mates Aaron at Tsururadio and Chris at Culture Bully are taking it to the mat and battling it out today in a mix tape-off!

What it is basically is a friendly (or is it?) comparison of a collection of music assembled together with a pseudo theme of 80′s vs. 90′s (Tsuru vs. Bully).  So who will win?  Will the crane be victorious or will the bully simply be just that, a bully!  Swing on over and place your vote in the comments on their respective blogs sometime today!

Just in case you were wondering, once again, it is:

Tsururadio brings the 1980′s to life! (click to visit and listen to his mix tape)

VS.

Culture Bully reliving the 1990′s! (click to visit and listen to his mix tape)

So head over and listen, download and vote!

To get you pumped up, how about tough as nails METAL!

Domine
“Battle Gods (Of The Universe)” (mp3)
from “Emperor Of The Black Runes”
(Dragonheart)

Buy at Napster
Buy at eMusic
Buy at Amazon MP3
More On This Album

~~~
DoomSword
“In the Battlefield” (mp3)
from “Let Battle Commence”
(Dragonheart)

Buy at iTunes Music Store
Buy at eMusic
Buy at Amazon MP3
More On This Album

I also can’t wait till this is all up close and personal when Aaron (Tsuru) & wifey visit Calgary next week (to enjoy the Sled Island Festival and visit Slowcoustic/Culture Bully HQ) and then Chris from Culture Bully looks him in the eye to say either……..”In yo face with your weak sauce mix tape” OR “Good job on the mix tape, it was really good and I admit your crushing jabs and knockout jams and you beat me utterly”….

~Smansmith

]]> http://slowcoustic.com/2010/06/25/no-slowcoustic-post-today-but-how-about-a-mixtape-battle-tsururadio-vs-culturebully-its-on/feed/ 1 http://slowcoustic.com/2010/01/17/new-on-the-nets-over-the-last-bit/ http://slowcoustic.com/2010/01/17/new-on-the-nets-over-the-last-bit/#comments Sun, 17 Jan 2010 18:08:31 +0000 slowcoustic http://slowcoustic.com/?p=3936

It’s been a few weeks (or month or so) since the last “new on the ‘nets” so I thought we could consider this your Sunday Slowcoustic newspaper edition.  Sit back, grab a steaming hot cup o’ joe and dig into some items I have noticed over that last couple of weeks that deserve a mention.

~~~

• Cover Lay Down, one of the best and most comprehensive folk cover blogs in the history of music blogging has a couple of posts you will want to follow up with.  Most recently his own “Josh” birthday post (CLD is 3 years old) and a bounty of tracks from numerous “Josh” artists like Josh Ritter/Joshua James/Josh Rouse, etc.   Love themed posts!
• Hopefully there are some still left, but Herohill has T-Shirts!  Posted last week, you can have your piece of the rock in the form of an original T from YoRodeo.  Get over there and pick one up!
• Speaking of blog birthdays, Agnes over at It All Started With Carbon Monoxide turned Two!  Go and wish her congratulations.
• Just this morning Knox Road advised of a Sufjan Stevens track from his latest that might be more what we expect from the avant garde folkster.  Check the song HERE.
• Tart introduces you to a local songwriter Brendon Losch and really wants you to know him to.  He is in “the gang” afterall!  ;-)
• Got some time to enjoy some videos?  We Listen For You has a collection all in one post from Sharon Van Etten (very nice) – see it HERE.
• Muzzle of Bees have a couple of posts on the Rural Alberta Advantage hitting Milwaukee – check the lead up and then the review (with photos).
• Daytrotter put two personal favourite sessions out lately – check out Little Wings and Timber Timbre and get your download on!

~~~

I recently told all of you about the great compilation from ondarock as it is chock full of great folky tunes, well who wants more free compilations??  I knew it!

Snowstar Records Compilation (available on BandCamp for free)

To celebrate the label’s 15th release, they have combined 10 tracks from artists they enjoy as an appreciation gift – so go show some support and appreciate it, it is a good one.  Enjoy a sample of one of my new favourites I Am Oak.

“Gold and Porcelain” – I Am Oak

~

All Creatures (A Sherman Compilation) (available at ShermanArts on Tumblr)

Sherman Arts is a West Philidelphia Based community for local music at local venues.  A great idea for a great area of talent – this compilation has 37 tracks people!  Bands include Boca Chica, Birdlips, The Baird Sisters and also an appearance from a Slowcoustic friend and favourite Strand of Oaks (check the photo of him, classic!!) – and listen below for proof.  Head over and look into it and if you are in the Philly area – get involved!

“Clear Recollections” – Strand of Oaks

~

~Smansmith

So the lists include contributions from Olivier (France), Martin (UK), the US contingent of Trini (California) and Laura (Chicago) and then the Canadian me, Sandy.  So five heads have to be able to pick something good…right?  Right?

~~~

This is just a start!  If you like what you are hearing – you can download the playlist by clicking HERE.  Thanks Olivier!!

~~

Laura has been a bit slammed by work and such lately, but she did advise that besides meeting J. Tillman in Chicago a month or so back she thought the below was the best of the year.

Gregory Alan Isakov – The Empty Northern Hemisphere

Listen: “Evelyn”

~~

Martin found some love for a lot of music from his Brighton home and between Radio23.org and Simple Folk Radio shows he has found some real great offerings.

Best albums of the year (in no particular order, but you know..still numbered..so you know)

01. Roadside graves – My Son’s Home

02. Hush Arbors – Yankee Reality

03. Steve Abel & The Chrysalids – Flax Happy

04. The Sumner Brothers – The Sumner Brothers

05. Nurses – Apple’s Acre
Bonus: “Technicolor”

06. The Felice Brothers – Yonder Is The Clock
Bonus: “Run Chicken Run”

07. Woods – Song Of Shame

08. Serious Sam Barrett – Close To Home

09. Timber Timbre – Timber Timbre
Bonus Video:

Timber Timbre – Demon Host from Scott Cudmore on Vimeo.

10. Wye Oak – The Knot

~~

I (Sandy) have managed to like a lot of music this year and I don’t care what anyone is saying about 2009 being bit light on quality releases.  I tend to be able to find much to like, adore and obsess over each year, so no real problems here.

I have decided to simply mention a few albums that for lack of a better term are “in my top 20″ of favourite listens for the year.  Sure there will be more once I finally listen to the numerous albums that I haven’t given enough time to, but damn it, it’s just a music blogger best of list and you know – we are mostly about telling other bloggers what is good or bad!  ;-)  We (music aficionados) tend to be overly opinionated on what is “good” and what is “great” and what is “totally and utterly disappointing”.  I find my niche being Slow and Acoustic makes for bit of an auditory “tunnel vision” when it comes to judging music, but I’m okay with that.  Also, despite how I may bitch about how too many people list “The xx” or “Animal Collective” or even “Grizzly Bear” in their top lists, they probably aren’t as bad as I might think that they are.  But my choices are better….{sarcasm intended}.

In order to make this fairly easy format-wise, my top albums are from my Rate Your Music profile (a needed website for all music nerds)!

1		J. Tillman Year in the Kingdom “Earthly Bodies” (mp3) Another triumph for Tillman, gentle and yet showing growth to a fuller sound.  You get the dark dusky corners of an old farmhouse and the sombre timbre of Tillman’s breathy voice over, at times, sparse acoustic songs
2		The Black Atlantic Reverence for Fallen Trees “I Shall Cross This River” (mp3) Such a surprise to get this out of nowhere and fall in love with the harmonies.  Another folk gem to hold onto.
3		Mumford & Sons Sigh No More “White Blank Page” (mp3) Entire package of laments, sing a longs, get onto your feet and still get pensive mid way.  Stunning.
4		The Deep Dark Woods Winter Hours “The Gallows” (mp3) Best Alt Country coming out of Canada today.  Period.
5		Doby Watson Twenty Two “Pummel” (mp3) Dark, introspective and just makes me want to sing along.  Underplayed everywhere, come on people!
6		Sharon Van Etten Because I Was in Love “For You” (mp3) SVE is finally starting to get her deserved praise, this is another great solo “girl and guitar” showing for her.
7		Bowerbirds Upper Air “Northern Lights” (mp3) Overwhelmingly overlooked by many, but still such a great album.   They are bringing their sound into the mainstream but it is still so lovely to listen along to.
8		Gregory Alan Isakov This Empty Northern Hemisphere see above for “Evelyn” This is definitely one of the most underrated songwriters around today, every album is great and this one does not disappoint.
9		Huck Notari Very Long Dream “He Rode Off” (mp3) Folk from long ago is still being released today.  So dusty you need a drink alongside your headphones.  This song is absolutely amazing and one of my favourite songs of the year.
10		Isbells Isbells “Time’s Ticking” (mp3) Another great album out of nowhere – some of the best indie pop recordings of the year.
11		Oweihops Viburnum “Proximity” (mp3) Always a fan of Oweihops, it is such a “real’ album – you feel like you are there with him as he sings of the world that both of you share.  Keeper.
12		Timber Timbre Timber Timbre “Lay Down in the Tall Grass” (mp3) Gothic Canadiana – it feels dark, it sounds dark but it really isn’t.  It is just plain good.
13		Tiny Vipers Life on Earth “Dreamer” (mp3) This whole album is dreamy, maybe too dreamy for some, but the it is an album you just want to float away with.
14		The Antlers Hospice “Two” (mp3) This album is an experience – you feel exhausted and satiated at the same time when listening.  Headphones are a must.
15		Cam Penner Trouble & Mercy “Thirteen” (mp3) Late entry for me, but this Manitoban hit a nerve (maybe because I am from Manitoba), but this is the future of roots country in Canada.
16		Laura Gibson Beasts of Seasons “Sleeper” (mp3) Gorgeous, stunning.  Gibson never disappoints and this album might be a grower for some, but damn its good.
17		Jon-Rae Fletcher Oh Maria “Oh Maria” (mp3) This is the sound of Southern gospel folk.  The voice that comes out of this unassuming guy is incredible.  Hand to god.
18		Haruko Wild Geese “Man In The Moon” (mp3) More acoustic and traditional than most, Haruko is a young lady destined to be the next folk goddess.
19		Andrew Bryant Galilee “Chicago Wind” (mp3) Dirty, dark and destined to find every last piece of yourself splayed out before you.  A little bit rock, folk and singer songwriter mixed in for good measure
20		Strand of Oaks Leave Ruin “End In Flames” (mp3) This song-crafter/school teacher is making some of the loudest quiet music around.   He sounds graceful but sings of real life, tragedy and the meaning of it all.

~~

I (Trini) am going to start of with my top ten albums of 2009. They are really in no particular order other than that each one of these has helped me heal in ways that only music can. I started the year feeling a little lost. Songs from each of these albums helped me find my way back.

1. Cory Chisel and The Wondering Sons – Death Won’t Send A Letter
Song: So Wrong For Me

2. Mumford & Sons – Sigh No More
Song: White Blank Page

3. Treetop Flyer – To Bury The Past EP
Song: Is It All Worth It?

4. Wilco – Wilco (The Album)
Song: You and I

5. The Avett Brothers – I and Love and You
Song: Head Full of Doubt/Road Full of Promise

6. J. Tillman – Vacilando Territory Blues
Song: Masters House

7. William Fitzsimmons – The Sparrow and The Crow
Song: Even Now

8. Jack Savoretti – Harder Than Easy
Song: Harder Than Easy

Bonus: Mother (mp3)

9. A.A Bondy – When The Devils Loose
Song: A Slow Parade

10. The Felice Brothers – Yonder Is The Clock
Song: All When We Were Young

In my attempt to gain some sanity, I’ve taken up baking. It is by far the only thing aside from music that helps me relax. I can say with absolute confidence that I’ve mastered the chocolate chip cookie recipe and will forever be making root beer float cupcakes. These two should be a staple in everyone’s baking repertoire.

http://www.joythebaker.com/blog/2009/05/root-beer-float-cake/
http://livefireonline.com/2007/10/18/jaays-best-ever-chocolate-chip-cookies/

Now, let me introduce you to my new toy which I’m anxiously awaiting its arrival. The Digital Harinezumi 2 Audio and Video camera. http://poketo.com/shop/archives/1009 What is it you say? Check out this cool little video, can’t wait to start shooting with it.

Digital Harinezumi 2 from 2122748828 on Vimeo.

Insert shameless plug here→ I’m putting together this little nifty music festival next year you should join me.  NOZZAFEST! ←

Ending my year for the first time not wishing for it to end, I’ve learned a lot about myself and am looking forward to new beginnings in 2010. Enjoy the tunes, bake something and go record life. It’s what I’ll be doing.

YCD ~ Trini

~~~

~Smansmith

~~~

The year was 1983…

…the year when I started participating in the obligatory yet mildly excruciating, I would come to realize, tradition of creating end of year lists.  What drew or prompted me to create such a list, I don’t really quite remember, but I blame either Casey Kasem or my buddy Dominic’s old bro, Dan.  No matter how I got there, really, all that matters is that I did…and have every year since.  For those keeping score that would be 26 years of em.  Ouch!

For those that weren’t around in 1983, or maybe not paying attention, but that year featured two records of epic proportions.  Committing hari kari seemed like an easier choice than having to decide which one would be my favorite.  I thought if I chose one over the other the other band would somehow find out and I would be responsible for their breakup or at very least some very hurt feelings.  Yet I moved past that, and proclaimed there could be only one!  The days leading up to 1984 were incredibly stressful, cause I knew my choice of record of the year, 1983 could not be made in haste.

To help ease the pressure and maybe clear my head, I participated in some very intense games of pitfall and barnstorming but all the while I listened to each repeatedly.  As it turns out, both were perfect soundtracks to my 8 bit attempt of escapism and only made me more confused.  Frustration began to set in and I was not amused.  I may have cried, I don’t remember?  Days turned to nights, nights to days and I was still without any resolution.  Then on December 30, 1983 over a delicious meal of Swedish meatballs my mother had prepared it hit me.  The choice was so obvious, but my judgment was clouded.  What could possibly cloud a 9 year old’s judgment you maybe asking yourself?  Well, one of the bands in question had/has a saxophone player, and guess what?  I played sax too!  Its like I was in the band!

Yes, my favorite record of 1983 would be Styx’s groundbreaking release Kilroy was here.  A concept record about robots taking over and replacing mankind.  I mean seriously, the record is about freakin robots!  Sure, I didn’t get the whole concept thing nor did I really care.  Again, it was about robots!  Hello, Mr. Roboto?!?  Maybe you’ve heard of it?  Oh, yeah the other record in question was Huey Lewis and News’ “Sports”.

What does that story have to do with anything?  Absolutely nothing.  Yep, you just wasted possibly 2-3 minutes of your time reading nonsensical drivel.  So, to make up for it, I present you my top ten favorite songs that didn’t appear on any of my top ten favorite records.

1. Heartbroken, in Disrepair off Dan Auerbach’s “Keep It Hid”
2. Ojibway Diner off Ox’s “Burnout”
3. What About Us off Doug Paisley’s self titled record
4. Mama’s Eyes off Justin Townes Earle’s “Midnight at the Movies”
5. Who Stole the Soul off William Elliot Whitmore’s “Animals in the Dark”
6. Restless Year off Caledonia’s “We Are America”
7. When They Fight They Fight off the Generational’s “Con Law”
8. Gas Tank off Truckstop Coffee’s “For Dear Life”
9. New Paris off Strand of Oak’s “Leave Ruin”
10. Come Dig Me Up off the Tailors’ “Come Dig Me Up”

~~~

~Smansmith

~~~

I have no idea how to approach all this. When Sandy first asked me to participate in this collective best of, I was pretty damn excited and enthusiastic. About 5 minutes later I began to experience panic and dread, as I realized exactly what it was I’d committed myself to.  How do you go about summarizing a year? I’ve tried it in the past and it always felt half-assed and incomplete. After all, how can you have any perspective on something that’s just happened? Ask me in 10 years what the best record of 2009 was and I could speak with greater authority.  Well, I’d speak more confidently, at any rate.

I looked back at my Best of 2008, and aside from being poorly written, I still felt pretty comfortable with the choices. But then I looked back at my Best of 2007 when I wrote for Rock Sellout, and it was quite the shit pile. Of course, I think part of that was related to the fact that we had so many writers on staff, and weren’t allowed to overlap with our choices. Thus, a lot of second string records ended up being my top picks. Plus, I know for a fact that I put about 10 minutes thought into it.  I actually found myself arguing with my own choices. In a way I guess that means I succeeded; after all, isn’t the purpose of these lists to provoke conversation and debate? Probably not with yourself, but I’ll ask for a bit of leeway there.

I have never laid claim to being a writer or a critic (both should be obvious by reading my blog).  I think critics have a need for bands to innovate, to dazzle, to astound with every sampling, whereas all I really need a band to do is make something that speaks to me. The method they use doesn’t matter much, whether it’s via traditional, well-worn routes or experimental, avant-garde magic. Just make something good, and I’m happy. Either critics have excessive expectations or I have too few, I haven’t quite figured it out yet. This all may naturally lead to the question “Why do you write a blog, then?”  And that’s a good question.  I don’t really have a good answer, unfortunately, other than “Because I enjoy it”. But that seems as good a reason as any.

This whole state of affairs had me thinking about the purpose of lists, which I either hate or love depending on my mood and the time of day. My friend Casey who writes my favorite Tumblr – more on that later – recently posted this quote from Umberto Eco (he wrote a novel  called The Name of the Rose which became a movie with Sean Connery that no one but my mom apparently likes, but I suppose that’s neither here nor there) on the purpose of lists that seems to put them in the right context:

“The list is the origin of culture. It’s part of the history of art and literature. What does culture want? To make infinity comprehensible. It also wants to create order — not always, but often. And how, as a human being, does one face infinity? How does one attempt to grasp the incomprehensible? Through lists, through catalogs, through collections in museums and through encyclopedias and dictionaries. There is an allure to enumerating how many women Don Giovanni slept with: It was 2,063, at least according to Mozart’s librettist, Lorenzo da Ponte. We also have completely practical lists — the shopping list, the will, the menu — that are also cultural achievements in their own right.”

It’s hard for me to equate a list of ‘Best Music I Heard This Year’ from an unknown blogger with an exhibition in The Louvre, but point taken. This is me trying to comprehend infinity and contribute to culture. Sure, why not?  I may not be successful, but it’s always better to try. It’s still hard for me to label something as ‘the best’ without being a little waggish about it, so this list is less a best of and more a haphazard, less than profound and slightly sarcastic yet miraculously sincere appreciation list – the bands, blogs and events of 2009 that managed to consistently entertain or educate me this year.

Band people were too cool to realize was totally kick ass

Spinnerette

Band that deserves way more recognition than they get

The Joy Formidable

Best record based on multiple personality disorder

Bat for Lashes – Two Suns

Band I missed the most this year

The Retrosexuals RIP

The Grandaddy Award for adorable songs about robots

Beautiful Small Machines – Robots in Love

Favorite musician that constantly sounds
on the verge of a nervous breakdown

Polly Scattergood

Best model turned musician

Lissy Trullie

Best girl in her bedroom making avant-electro with GarageBand

George Pringle

Best revival of 60s girl pop

God Help The Girl

Best foreplay band

The xx

Best haircut of 2009

Elly Jackson (La Roux)

Best dance album that it seems no one listened to

Filthy Dukes – Nonsense in the Dark

Best comeback from a band I wasn’t sure would come back

White Rose Movement

Best comeback from a band that made us wonder
if they were really a different band

The Horrors

Best Podcasting duo

Rosie Swash & Paul MacInnes

Proof that online radio isn’t dead

Guilty Pleasure on East Village Radio

Best remixes that should make a lot of other remixers realize
they’re doing it all wrong

The xx – Crystalised (Rory Phillips Remix)
Fever Ray – Seven (The Twelves Remix)
Burns – First Move (Fred Falke Remix)

Best soundtrack that wasn’t exactly a soundtrack

Nick Cave & Warren Ellis – White Lunar

2 great blogs to discover new music you’d otherwise never hear
(and the songs I found there)

Song, By Toad
Jesus H Foxx – I’m Half The Man You Were (mp3)
&
Love Shack, Baby
Jihae – My Love (mp3)

Best Tumblr

http://crumbler.tumblr.com/

Blog that makes you feel smarter just by reading it

http://heartachewithhardwork.blogspot.com/

The blogosphere’s greatest musical archeologist

http://thevinylvillain.blogspot.com/

Best Cinematic Moment of 2009

~~~

~Smansmith

**Note, I (Slowcoustic) have placed a few tracks via mp3 links under each of the artists from IPMN – these ARE NOT from the performances listed below, but just something to sample while envisioning the live performances.  Just sayin’.

~~~

Of possibly everything related to music that people rate, probably one of the most subjective is live performances. There’s so much besides the music that factors into the experience–what else happened that day, were you with friends or alone, what your expectations were, what the people standing near you were like–that one’s review sometimes not even up to the performers.

With that in mind, I present to you, in chronological order, very personal list of most memorable music moments from 2009.

• David Bazan @ house show, Berkeley (2/18)
  I saw two of Bazan’s house shows this year but this was easily the better. Attentively sitting on someone’s living room floor, about thirty big-time Bazan fans watched him perform without amplification a few feet away. The music was great, the between-song conversation was good, the crowd was awesome–there wouldn’t be a lot of ways to make this show better.



*bonus: “Hallelujah (Leonard Cohen cover)”

• Yoni Wolf @ Apple Store (2/28)
  I hadn’t much considered Why? before this. This show with the frontman and an electric piano changed that somewhat. But what is most memorable about this performance was the once-off cover of “This is the Day.” I remember the hymn from church growing up but Wolf’s version that day was dark and haunting and still sticks with me.



• Les Savy Fav @ the Mezzanine, San Francisco (3/1)
  I’d heard many stories about the antics of Les Savy Fav live show and, in particular, frontman Tim Harrington’s antics. This show did not disappoint whatsoever. Harrington came out covered in toilet paper but quickly stripped down to his shorts. Before the night was up he spit beer into the crowd, licked the lens of the photographer standing next to me and ducked taped a girl to him. In between all of this, he managed to sing some songs.



• The Rural Alberta Advantage @ Central Presbyterian, Austin (3/19); @ Bottom of the Hill, San Francisco (7/9)
  Two very different shows but both very memorable. At the Central Presbyterian show during SxSW, I saw the band completely win over an audience of people largely unfamiliar with their music. They were on top form and I had chills for about half the show. When the finished the show acoustically in the main aisle of the church, I was in awe like everyone around me. The Bottom of the Hill show was the last Ipickmynose Presents show and it was a rousing success. Two days after their debut album came out to much acclaim, the band seemed to still be surprised by their success and performed a fantastic show.



*bonus: “Edmonton (HearYa session)”

• The Tallest Man on Earth @ the Rickshaw Stop, San Francisco (3/25)
  I’d been obsessing about Shallow Grave for months leading up to this show, which was just a week after I’d seen the Swede, Kristian Matsson, at SxSW. This show was more noteworthy than the SxSW in that this performance was just perfect. Matsson has a way of performing that is just as much about movement as it is about music. He sits during the slow beginning of a song and then stands moves fluidly to the front of the stage and looks out into the audience. After this show nearly everyone I talked to said they thought he was looking right at them, bringing the performance to each audience member in a way few artists do.



*bonus: “I Won’t Be Found (Daytrotter session)”

• Damien Jurado @ Bottom of the Hill, San Francisco (5/5)
  I’ve seen Jurado perform about six or seven times now, but this show seemed to have what would have been my hand-picked set list of favorites performed with intensity. In his first four songs were “Ghost of David”, “Medication” and “Ohio” and I knew it would be a good night.



*bonus: “I Had No Intentions (Tour CDR)”

• Iron & Wine @ Swedish America Hall, San Francisco (5/7)
  I’d seen Iron & Wine a few times, including one magical time in 2004 at the Great American Music Hall, but even that time wasn’t at a venue as small as the Swedish American. Maybe this show stuck with me because his set list, chosen by fans on his website, was filled with nostalgic favorites. Maybe it was because the Swedish American has great acoustics for solo shows. Maybe it was just a great performance.



*bonus: “He Lays in the Reins (Home Sessions)”

• Or, the Whale @ the Independent, San Francisco (6/6)
  I love Or, the Whale and this show was good, but the experience here wasn’t about the music (which was great as always). Two months before I was to leave for South Africa, the experience was noteworthy because every time I turned around there was a friend of mine or someone I wanted to talk to. It was a blast and I went home thinking I might be making a mistake moving away.



• John Vanderslice @ Secret House Show, San Francisco (7/25)
  I’m still not sure how this all came together but my going away party in San Francisco was a secret show by John Vanderslice in my apartment to me and thirty of my friends. Completely without amplification, JV was accompanied by Jamie Riotta on upright bass and vocals. My cheeks hurt from grinning so much. It was utterly spellbinding and will probably go down as one of my most memorable music experiences in my entire life.

White Plains from ipickmynose on Vimeo.

*bonus: “Dead Slate Pacific (I Pick My Nose Session)”

• “Oh How I’d Miss You” @ my apartment, San Francisco (7/25)
  Following JV’s performance, I played a killer soul playlist with this Marvin Gaye/ Tammi Terrell number on it. After people trickled out, my lady friend and I spontaneously danced in an empty living room to this song. But, given that I was leaving the country a week later, the lyrics were a bit too topical and near the end of the song I looked up to see her crying.
• Sangoma Ceremony @ private home, Khayelitsha, South Africa (8/15)
  Saying yes to a series of opportunities led me to be in a tiny tin-sided house off a dirt path in a township outside Cape Town. A new sangoma (sometimes translated as ‘witch doctor’) was being initiated and there was much dancing, singing and clapping among the couple dozen people packed into the house. It was an experience that few outsiders get to have.



• Zulu hymns @ small church, Ingwavuma (9/6)
  This church is at the end of the road, literally. The tar road ends about 2km before it and the dirt road ends right at it. A few hundred meters father, the hill drops off steeply into Swaziland. The hymns during the actual service were sung in both Zulu and English but were largely not noteworthy. While I was sitting waiting for the service to begin, though, women scattered around the room spontaneously and seemingly without coordination started the most beautiful hymns I’d ever heard. Four part harmony filled the room. It was baking hot in that room and I still had chills.

~~~

In regards to the below, who says you can’t take an indie icon and call them out onto the mat?  Definitely not Knox Road.  Who can make you think that a legitimate song might actually be an inside joke?  Definitely Knox Road.  I mean, despite shouts from the studio audience and crazy shenanigans ensuing, they just might have a point!  Sometimes we get lost in all these lists and honestly, you need a bit of fresh air in the form something to make you say “hmmmm”.

~Smansmith

~~~

Best Song of 2009 To Secretly Be…

A 90s Sitcom Theme!

Remember the ’90s?  Hahaha!  Such great times, right?  And nothing represents the decade better than those wonderful sitcom opening themes.   “I’m busy fixing a bicycle. Oh!  Hello camera!  I’ll pose coyly.”  “Frisbee at the beach? Perfect! No worries here.  Computers and shoulder pads!”

Although The Mountain Goats had nothing to do with zany situations involving moral values and a good chuckle at the end of the day, they did write “Genesis 3:23” for this year’s The Life Of The World To Come.  And boy, is it special.  Not only is it a wonderful song, but the intro is secretly a theme to one of those sitcoms.  Shhhh!  Just watch any opening and play the song over top.  You’ll see what we mean.

The Mountain Goats – “Genesis 3:23″ [MP3]

You know what?   We’re taking this award back.  “Genesis 3:23” wins the Best Sitcom Theme of 1996.  Congrats!

~~~

~Smansmith

~~~

Well here we are again at the end of another year, and yet again I find myself wondering where it went. 2009 has been yet another fantastic year for music, and while the blog took a bit of a hiatus while I spent a couple of months travelling overseas, I’ve done my best to catch up with what I missed. Here’s my favourite 5 releases from 2009.

1. Withered Hand – Good News

I’ve been trying for weeks to write about this album and how much I love it, but as is the case with albums that really resonate with me, I find that it’s difficult to do it justice with mere words.

Withered Hand is the performing name of Edinburgh’s Dan Willson and somehow he’s managed to produce a stunning collection of songs that I’ve not been able to get out of my head. There’s an honesty about the way he writes, nothing’s hidden from view but is all laid out before you, every last twisted bitter thing. It’s a melancholy album, an album that questions and provokes, with countless moments of pure sweetness to be found in the turn of phrase, the imagery, the wavering not-quite-there vocals and the subtle percussion. All of these elements combine to create a brilliant, raw and organic piece of work that feels deeply personal and intimate, yet totally accessible at the same time. Wonderful stuff.

Highlights include my pick for song of the year ‘Religious Songs’ as well as ‘Love In The Time Of Ecstacy’, ‘No Cigarettes’ and ‘Providence’.

“Religious Songs” – Withered Hand

I’ve not numbered the rest of my top 5 as I love them all equally – only ‘Good News’ stands above the rest – so the next 4 are in alphabetical order by artist.

The Antlers – Hospice

This was another album I struggled to write about for quite some time, and it probably would’ve been my top pick if it had not been for the discovery of Withered Hand.

‘Hospice’ is an album about a man who watches a loved one die of cancer. It’s a heartbreakingly gorgeous album, and I don’t think it’s enough to just have a digital version of this album either – you really need the physical copy to fully appreciate its beauty. The artwork is haunting and lovely and the lyrics, written out as paragraphs and not lines, give the feeling of an epic novel, rather than just a collection of songs. While this is a concept album specifically about somebody dying of cancer, what I love about it is that it can be interpreted in so many ways.
Every track is magnificent, truly, but the standouts for me are ‘Kettering’, ‘Bear’ and ‘Two’ (a track which also featured up high in my song of the year list).

“Two” – The Antlers

~~~

Meursault – Nothing Broke EP

Meursault have been on my radar since 2008′s Pissing On Bonfires/Kissing With Tongues, but it wasn’t until I heard this year’s Nothing Broke EP that I really started to warm to them (now you know why this post is about the best releases and not the best albums!) Pissing…. is more of an electro-type album, where as Nothing Broke is purely acoustic – warm and melancholy and absolutely gorgeous. It’s only 5 tracks, but they’re all magnificent.

The two highlights for me are ‘William Henry Miller Part 1′ – its simple twangy banjo beginning grabbed me immediately, and Neil Pennycook’s vocals are outstanding, complete with that lovely Scottish tinge that enhances every wonderfully chosen word. Closing track ‘William Henry Miller Part 2′ follows directly from ‘Part 1′ and features piano and guitar and a greater ambiance than ‘Part 1′ – just listen to those ‘ohhhhh’ moments. You’ll know the ones I mean.

“Nothing Broke” – Meursault
Bonus: “William Henry Miller, Pt. 1 (Single Version)” (purchase)

~~~

Mumford & Sons – Sigh No More

The debut album of London’s Mumford & Sons is nothing short of wonderful. A little bit bluegrass, a little bit alt-country, it combines gorgeous instrumentation and harmonies to create an album that is both rollicking and melancholy all at the same time.
There are so many highlights on this album, from opening track ‘Sigh No More’, which takes its inspiration from the words of Shakespeare, to ‘The Cave’, ‘Winter Winds’, ‘Roll Away Your Stone’ and ‘White Blank Page’. Expect more great things from these guys in the future.

“White Blank Page” – Mumford & Sons

~~~

Roadside Graves – My Son’s Home

Capping off my top 5 is New Jersey’s Roadside Graves. With a name that sounds more like a metal outfit than a troupe of country rockers, these guys have created a richly narrative driven collection of songs. Each track touches on death and mortality, exploring it through the use of husky vocals, tinkling piano, multiple tempo changes and countless sing along moments. This album has accompanied me on many a road trip and many an evening run and remains a frequent favourite.

Highlights include ‘Ruby’, ‘Far And Wide’ and ‘Valley’.

“Far and Wide” – Roadside Graves

~~~

Now kids, what do you need to know when taking that special someone back to your “Love Shack”?  Well if it happened this year, hopefully were prepared…if not, Tart provides all you need below.  Enjoy!

~Smansmith

~~~

Kissing to the right soundtrack can make making-out feel like being in a movie. You’re already transported to another time and place in your mind, wrapped in the arms of someone who’s literally causing you sensory overload. And music is the best way to help take that to a whole other level. Music quickens the rate at which your hands roam their body, … or slows it, depending on what’s streaming out the speakers. Timing is everything, darlings. Let’s get this right, eh? The following songs are tired and true, tested in the laboratory of Tart head/bedquarters. While you really need to know the musical taste of the person you wish to woo, I couldn’t help myself and ended up making you a mixtape. But, ultimately, remember, I’m choosing to give you some music and some ideas and let you take it to it’s final, screaming climax. While this reflects my taste, in all it’s eclecticism, your mileage will vary ;)

You’ll want to start out easy, draw them in… don’t make it too obvious. No one wants to be sledgehammered right away with that big, thick, heavy track you’re just dying to lay on them. Save that one for later, darlings. Ease them into your comfort zone with something sweet and melodic. The Bony King of Nowhere’s album Alas My Love (only available on itunes UK) was released early this year and I’m hoping it doesn’t get neglected at year-end lists because I love it. “The Sunset” is a gentle, soft track that is easy to whisper over, snuggle up to and generally sit down and get comfy. Now, I know I just told you not to hit them over the head with the obvious, but Jessica Lea Mayfield’s “Kiss Me Again” is so perversely romantic that it has to play in here somewhere. By the time you get to this second track you’ll appreciate the irony of it. And besides, I did some of my best work to this song so it holds a special place in my, uh… heart. Yeah, I know With Blasphemy So Heartfelt came out in 2008, but I saw her sing this song in 2009, so I’m sneaking it in.

And you can’t really have too many beautiful women singing in your ear when you’re smooching someone. So let Amanda Zelina take you away with “Love Leads The Way” off her debut, Love Me Till I’m Me Again before we up the ante here. Man or woman will pause to admire her voice, giving you time to run your fingers through their hair, sneak a peek over their body to see what effects your kisses might be having. Oooh, can I have one more song, please? I’d be remiss if I didn’t add a track by J. Tillman and what better song than “Earthly Bodies,” from his latest record, Year in the Kingdom if only for the way he sings the word “belly.” Damn, that makes me…. uh, … warm. How about you? Warmed up yet? As you’re nibbling on their lips, those soft little kisses that tease and make them want to draw you closer, don’t move too fast. Enjoy all the breathy vocals on these, they’re so intimate. Men, don’t think this is just a woman’s game. I’ve had plenty of guys pull this on me as well. It totally works both ways! A real player knows that what’s good applies to all.

Now we hit them with one of the sexiest songs of 2009, seriously. With undulating, synthesized sounds and languid vocals, Still Life Still just ooze sexual energy out their pores on “Planets” from Girls Come Too. I find it unfathomable that two people can listen to this song and not feel the heat rise. So once you’ve got them pressed up tight, perhaps hearing a bit of sighing in your ear, (see why all that music is nice and quiet so far?), and you’ve worked your way down their neck and not abandoned that spot at the base of their throat, (you know the place; always kiss them there, eh?), …then with their hands unbuttoning your shirt, Jogger’s “Napping Captain” comes on. You’ll need this to mask the little groan you’re gonna make when their hand slides onto your chest, or better yet, under your waistband. Sure, let them hear, but not too much. Let them wonder a bit just how much noise you made, trust me. This Great Pressure is a criminally underheard album of 2009. It’s full of surprises and experiments and genre-hopping madness. This track is one of my favorites because it really transverses the divide between indie-folk and electronica in such a cool way. And those are two types of music that I really enjoy, so let this song segue you into the next stage of our session. It’s soft in all the right places and it lulls you into a nice firm (if somewhat frenzied) beat ;)

By this point there definitely should be some repositioning going on. It helps to have a groove going, get settled into a nice beat but a slow one, hope to gain some more familiarity with your victim partner at this stage in the game, or start aiming for those places you already know they like if it’s someone you’ve been on this couch with before. “AVO” by Pure Reason Revolution is my current addiction. In fact, the whole album, Amor Vincit Omnia is a record to get down to. And by the end of this song you’d better have some skin to skin contact or else step away and cool the fuck off, or risk some major friction trauma. This track is not to be attempted by the undecided. If smooching on the sofa is your limit, get off the couch now, m’dear, and bonus points for being honest and not begging, ok?

Now, of course the situation might call for something else entirely. You just might not be the one begging here. If so, dig in! Give them what they want, already! We move on to Apse’s “Blown Doors” from their sophomore album Climb Up (I gave you a clear break between tracks if you need to turn it off and back on to change rooms or something, thank me later.) And well, fuckme, if you’re not negotiating lube, condom, and how to keep their head from banging the headboard soon, then you’ve no business listening to this song! (And darlings, yes… condom, every time, safety first.) Depending on your stamina, how long you’ve been seeing this person (we all know the first time is a write-off, nobody expects a marathon at that point, honest) and how well planned this is, you could get through three or more songs. So be ready; either way you want to have droning, beat-heavy, but still interesting tracks in here. I’ve given you School of Seven Bells‘ “Iamunderdisguise” (another 2008 entry from Alpinisms but again, they were so gorgeous performing it a few months ago, forgive me!) with its intricate, yet not exactly delicate, harmonies and insistent, in all the right ways rhythms.

Warpaint’s “Elephants” is just deliciously all over the place. It’s from their debut Exquisite Corpse, an amazing record by this band who, when they came through Chicago, played one of the most memorable shows of the year with School of Seven Bells and The Depreciation Guild. I like having these small, quiet moments in music with just simple instrumentation and a woman’s voice when I’m fucking. Just a few moments is all you need to catch your breath, or get your head together enough to remember to pay attention again to where your hands are, or to open your eyes, or close them, or whatever it is that you’re not consciously doing because you’ve been so caught up in the moment of whatever delirious stage of the fun you’re in right then. Of course if that moment coincides with the moment when you’re screaming your head off in ecstasy then it makes for a good laugh too; that’s the chance you take! And with a song like “Elephants” that changes pace so often and has more than a few tripped out effects, … well, be brave young lovers. I usually am.

Finally, I’m giving you my favorite, romantic, take-me-in-your-arms-and-gaze-right-into-my-eyes-when-you-kiss-me song of 2009. I’ll be honest here. I’ve seen The Depreciation Guild perform “Dream About Me” twice this year and each time I blushed. It’s simply one of those perfectly calculated crushed-out girl songs and the 13 year-old girl in everyone can’t help but fall for it (guys you know it’s true, you feel it too if you let it happen.) Well, really, it’s more than that. It’s lyrically that crushed-out girl song. But listen to the music. The guitars are lush, the same languid feeling from “Planets” comes out here but in a different way, it’s all Kurt’s smooth voice and the way he and Christoph meld their guitar style into a cohesive piece of sound. Anton’s drumming fills it out along with the 8-bit Famicom-programmed beats. When you look at the audio spectrum of the song in a sound editing program it’s one long, almost solid-looking bar of sound and that’s what it feels like. It’s thick and soft and it envelops you. So… deep breath here, a fitting ending to our session, yes? 11 tracks, that’s what you’ll need. Hopefully I’ve prepared you for the best. Remember, it’s not about the destination, but the journey. Enjoy your lover, my loves! xoxo

The Sunset (mp3)
Napping Captain (mp3)
Love Leads The Way (mp3)
AVO (mp3)
Iamunderdisguise (mp3)
Elephants (mp3)
Best of 2009 Blogger Crew… Tart’s Make-Out Mix.zip (40 mb)

~~~

It just so happens that Tsuru runs one of the newest and best blogs around – always a treat to read and full of numerous playlists and a penchant for oversized plastic discs who’s grooves provide sound in the form of music.  Oh, and their is a whole music “community” over in Tsuru-ville  in which I am a proud member.

Dig in below and don’t peeter out midway, give it an honest read – it is more than a declaration of good music, it is a peak inside the mind of what many of you know as a music blogger.

~Smansmith

~~~

2009? I Haven’t Got A Clue

To write “anything” about 2009 seems almost impossible. Do you talk about key concert events, like the Decemberists show a few months back? Your biggest suprises & disappointments of the year? Do you float your own boat a bit as Tsuru World Domination continues unabated? Do you write a thank you list for all that is and was for the year that holds a special fiber in your bleeding heart?

No clue.

When asked to join in the “Best Of 2009 Blogger” series, I was stoked, blabbering on about shit I love is right up my alley! But then it came time to write the post and I sat there (here) staring at a Notepad.exe that was as blank as my mind. What have I or someone else to say that hasn’t already been said?

Again, no clue.

I mean, it’s been an amazing year, should be plenty to hone in on and get out a couple paragraphs, right? I mean, take the concert-going mentioned above, the Decemberists or even Neko, you can talk about the beauty of the show, or rant about the idiots in the audience. Albeit an easy target, I mean, really, who the hell spends $20, $30, whatever dollars to treat a concert like a bar, hanging out talking to your chaps, loudly, while the band performs? Shut the fuck up! Do you really need a picture, taken right in front of me, of your friends hoisting up their Bud Lights/Coors/PBR/cheap swill during the joint-suicide song of “Hazards Of Love 4″? But it was a glorious show, “fans” excluded. Someone even recognized me from the blog, making me feel famous for 10 seconds. Strange.

Yeah, I could also talk about surprises and disappointments, easy enough. I mean, I can’t stand all that Eee-lectronic dance crap, but what the hell Dan Deacon, Bromst kicked my ass, called me Sally, took advantage of me, made me like it, and left me wanting more! Disappointments? Guess the easy route is to say Weezer, but then again it says more about me, like a stupid rat, going back to the Weezer well, hoping to find food & treats, getting only electric shocks. Stupid rat.

Such a clueless ignorant rat.

Interesting year. So much changed yet nothing at all, because even though TSURURADIO is bigger than ever, we have a full community in our board and on the facebook/twitter/social networking “revolution”, more “hits” than an irreverent blog like mine should be allowed to have, and even though Baby sold tons of purses and my photography really stepped out of the shadows, here I still sit, in the same chair, with the same view, with the same (if not less) money in my pocket than I would’ve otherwise.

So, 2009… I think when me of the future looks back to the me of the now, I think, if anything, even though it may sound as corny as candy corn, this year will have been one of growth & transition. Musical growth, personal growth, biological growth (thanks Enzyte! just kidding, actually biological shrinkage, thanks cycling!), and tons and tons of interior introspection (is that the correct phrase? oh well, you get me right?) as we, the Tsuru familia, try to figure out just exactly where we fit in in this world. The IRL world looks at two of us as oddballs & weirdos, hell we don’t even get invited to departmental parties, even when, for example, I’m one of only 9 people in my department.

Sigh.

And the online world… all we can do is “keep it realz, dawg”, and hope those who get it, get it, and the rest, well, I guess they can go to hell, or maybe just carry on and ignore the two giggling eccentrics in the corner.

We are just going to have some fun or die trying, you know?

So, where were we? Ah yes, 2009. The end of one decade and the 2nd to last year of another. Reminds of the doom & gloomers of the Y2K thing 10 years back. We sure do love our zeros don’t we. Car turns 100,000 miles, striving to hit 6,000 miles on my bike (sooo close!), the end of the world at year 1,000 and 2,000 and probably 3,000, all putting some kind of major importance on a man-made invention, miles don’t mean anything, hell, neither do the man-made calendars, the “new year” could’ve just as easily been on May 22, another man-made thing.

But I digress (love that phrase, as pompous as it is)… Again.

When people look back to 2009, what will be the big story? I guess it will be the rise and genuine maturation and mainstreaming and etc of the “social networking revolution”, twitter & facebook won. What’s a myspace? Band fodder and home to goths. Remember friendster? Me neither. Tied closely to this, of course, is the genuinely smart phone, yeah, it was pre-09, sure, but it’s finally fast enough, and when tied in to twitter & facebook, fun enough to “need” one. Hell, even I got one for an early holiday present just the other day! But you know what? This kinda talk is for the Newsweeks, NY Times, Pastes, and other dying paper rags out there….

So, I’ll tell you what, let’s talk about music, something I know, or at at least something I love and I know I love. And because, like I mentioned earlier, we love our zeros, so this has also become the year of “best of the decade” list. Honestly, I don’t even know how to begin putting in order a whole 10 years worth of songs, albums, whatevers, the shear volume, man, so instead, here, today, for you, Sandy, and the whole Slowcoustic team, I will offer up an exclusive, what I believe to be is one of the best if not THE BEST album of the 00′s. I don’t even think I was going to do this on TSURURADIO! But, here goes…

One of the best, if not THE best album of the 00s is…

.

.

.

*drum roll, please*

.

.

.

An album that requires no introduction….

.

.

.

But we’ll talk about it anyway after we announce it…

.

.

.

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Drum roll still, uh, rollin’?

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The Fox Confessor Brings The Flood

by Neko Case

Yep.

It is. You know it is. We listened to this as the sun set on our ride back from Neko’s adopted country of origin (Canada), and though I’ve thought fondly and lovingly of Case’s masterpiece before, it was under those conditions, “on the road”, sky fading from blue to orange to pink to navy to black, volume up to ear-bleed, passing exit after exit, mile after mile, where it took on a 3rd and maybe even a 4th element and dimension. The thing just EXUDES mood, feeling, atmosphere, intelligence, well, Neko every single moment. The only thing that would’ve made it perfect would be a stop at a neon motel, something Ohio has a lot of (trust me, I know)…

So, as this decade wraps for decade list makers and more importantly, as this year wraps up, and finally as (thankful, I’m sure) this post wraps up, I’d like to spend my last few moments of this post;

1) thanking the wonderful folks at Slowcoustic for letting me potentially ruin their blog and their reputation and,

2) listening to Fox Confessor the way the good lord meant it to be listened to…on vinyl.

Side A

Margaret vs. Pauline
Star Witness
Hold On, Hold On

The most tender place in my heart is for strangers
I know it’s unkind but my own blood is much too dangerous
Hangin’ round the ceiling half the time
Hangin’ round the ceiling half the time

A Widow’s Toast
That Teenage Feeling
Fox Confessor Brings The Flood

Side B

John Saw That Number
Dirty Knife
Lion’s Jaws
Maybe Sparrow
At Last
The Needle Has Landed

So, I guess in the end, my 2009 post is a best-of-the-decade-type post, just like every other bloggy blog out there in internetland, ironic, eh? Thank you again, Sandy, and thank your readers for giving me these few moments of their time!

Peace, love, & LPs,
Cheers,

Aaron (aka Tsuru)
http://www.tsururadio.com

~~~

]]> http://slowcoustic.com/2009/12/11/tsururadio-gets-writers-block-gets-mad-at-concert-goers-and-discovers-a-lovely-redhead-supplied-one-of-the-best-album-of-the-00s/feed/ 2 http://slowcoustic.com/2009/12/10/what-the-fck-went-on-in-2009-prose-from-song-by-toad/ http://slowcoustic.com/2009/12/10/what-the-fck-went-on-in-2009-prose-from-song-by-toad/#comments Thu, 10 Dec 2009 16:13:29 +0000 slowcoustic http://slowcoustic.com/?p=3317 Today in our best of 2009 blogger series, (Day 3 of 12), we have Matthew who curates Song, by Toad music blog and label (Song, by Toad Records) with his view of 2009 in music.  Its more of a big picture effort.  It may be bleak, it may be over analyzed and even more so, it just might be accurate – you decide.   And leave it to him to find a band that I know absolutely nothing about (and can’t even find anything on them when I tried…).

~Smansmith

~~~

2009 has been a shit year for albums. Bloody hell, it really has – stodgy, uninspired and disappointing. There were a ton of albums which could have been brilliant, but pretty much none of them excited me anything like I had been hoping they might have. There are plenty of albums out there which I had been looking forward to and which turned out to be quite good, some were even very good, but hardly any really got me excited. Bill Callahan, The Builders & the Butchers, Samantha Crain, Bombadil, George Pringle, Alela Diane, The Willard Grant Conspiracy, Richmond Fontaine, Casiotone – so much has just been solid rather than thrilling.

And yet, musically, 2009 has still been an immensely exciting year for some reason. Maybe that’s all down to participation, that great gift that the dominance of the digital and the increasing irrelevance of the major labels has given to the rest of us. You can actually chip in, now – you can help! – and that’s something which has made 2009 an incredible year from my point of view.

Increasingly, I have found myself able to watch it happen in front of my very eyes. I’ve seen bands record in our house, watched friends release their debut albums, argued with people over the sequencing of their records, hosted gigs, helped people with self-releases, and it’s been amazing. It doesn’t take much – put on a gig, let a promoter friend know that bands can sleep in your house if needed, help someone design a poster, start a blog, write guest posts for someone else’s, or just turn up at loads of stuff. Fuck it, it doesn’t take much, just enthusiasm and a willingness to help out.

I remember seeing the Billboard Chart for 2008 and seeing it dominated by infantile, laughable rubbish – Now 87 (or whatever), the Hannah Montana Soundtrack and shit like that – and being absolutely giddy with glee. That chart ignored download sales and independent labels, and it was hilarious. They have absolutely dropped the fucking ball, I thought. The big boys have no fucking idea what they’re doing, that chart does nothing at all except loudly announce their total cultural irrelevance, and if there was ever a time when the ball was squarely in our court, this is it.

These things don’t last long, of course. As any ecologist will tell you, any mass-extinction is pretty quickly followed by an incredibly nimble arms race to fill the vacated niche. Stereogum, Drowned in Sound and Pitchfork already hold a pretty scary dominance over online conversations and new entertainment entities (I won’t call them just labels, because they’ll need to be a lot more than that) will very quickly spring up to occupy the space vacated by the lumbering dinosaurs of the past. That won’t happen immediately of course and right now we have the chance to stake a claim to being a serious part of culture.

DIY and alternative movements are unlikely to ever be huge, of course. That’s the whole point of being alternative – it means not a lot of people are going to be into it. But because the audiences are spread so thin these days there is a lot of love to go around, and that’s the most inspiring thing I’ve noticed this year: that if you have the balls and the work ethic and the dogged persistence to really try and make something happen, there genuinely is an audience out there for you.

This is from the record which finished second in my Top Twenty Albums of the Year list: Bad Children by Navigator. The band have overloaded every mic and every channel, even in this relatively quiet, acoustic song. In the past how the hell would they have found even a shred of an audience. They’re from Salt Lake City, but I know of at least a dozen people in Edinburgh, Scotland who think their album is brilliant.

Navigator – Work is Done

Navigator – Blood

~~~

~Smansmith

~~~

Top 50 albums in 2009

*****

1. Scott Matthew – there is an ocean that divides…
scott matthew – for dick (live)

****1/2

2. yo la tengo – popular songs
yo la tengo – here to fall
3. evangelista – prince of truth
evangelista – the slayer
4. the felice brothers – yonder is the clock
the felice brothers – run chicken run
5. bill callahan – sometimes i wish we were an eagle
bill callahan – eid ma clack shaw

**** – ****1/2

6. alasdair roberts – spoils
alasdair roberts – hazel forks
7. laura gibson – beasts of seasons
laura gibson – sleeper
8. karl blau – zebra
9. alela diane – to be still
alela diane – white as diamonds

****

10. magnolia electric co. – josephine
magnolia electric co – josephine
11. vetiver – tight knit
vetiver – miles apart
12. charlie parr – roustabout
13. simon joyner – out into the snow
simon joyner – out into the snow
14. bonnie prince billy – beware
15. james blackshaw – the glass bead game
james blackshaw – cross
16. julie doiron – i can wonder what you did with your day
julie doiron – consolation prize
17. tara jane o’neil – a ways away
tara jane o’neil – drowning
18. simone white – yakiimo
simone white – a girl you never met
19. sonic youth – the eternal
sonic youth – sacred trickster
20. heartless bastards – the mountain
heartless bastards – searching for the ghost
21. megafaun – gather, form & fly
megafaun – the fade
22. michael hurley – ida con snock
michael hurley – wildegeeses (sample)
23. great lake swimmers – lost channels
great lake swimmers – pulling on a line
24. j. tillman – year in the kingdom
j. tillman – earthly bodies
25. the ballet – bear life
the ballet – the house on fire
26. michael j. sheehy – with these hands
27. condo fucks – fuckbook
28. dent may – the good feeling music of dent may & his magnificent ukulele
dent may – meet me in the garden (daytrotter session)

***1/2-****

29. pastels/tenniscoats – two sunsets
pastels / tenniscoats – about you
30. laura veirs – july flame
laura veirs – wide eyed, legless
31. pink mountaintops – outside love
pink mountaintops – vampire
32. red heart the ticker – oh my! mountains below
red heart the ticker – yellowbird
33. the allender band – outer dark
the allender band – riverrun
34. emeralds – what happened
35. black flowers – i grew from a stone to a statue
black flowers – polly on the shore (sample)
36. marissa nadler – little hells
marissa nadler – river of dirt
37. dirty projectors – bitte orca
38. mv & ee with the golden road – drone trailer
39. hope sandoval & the warm inventions – through the devil softly
40. six organs of admittance – luminous night
41. the curious mystery – rotting slowly
the curious mystery – black sand
42. nurses – apple’s acre
nurses – caterpillar playground
43. samara lubelski – future slip
samara lubelski – evolution flow
44. tenniscoats – temporacha
tenniscoats – ichinichi
45. le loup – family
le loup – forgive me
46. kurt vile – god is saying this to you

***1/2

47. leonard mynx – vesper
leonard mynx – valley of sickness and death
48.the duke and the king – nothing gold can stay
the duke and the king – if you ever get famous (daytrotter session)
49. patton – hellénique chevaleresque récital
patton – astar clusters
50. blues control – local flavour
blues control – losing game

~~~

There you have the best 50 albums of the past year from one of the best (and hardest working) bloggers around!  You will find this ongoing list over on Das Klienicum as well and if you speak German, you have just found your favourite blog!

~Smansmith (again)

]]> http://slowcoustic.com/2009/12/09/top-50-albums-of-2009-according-to-das-klienicum-top-50/feed/ 8 http://slowcoustic.com/2009/12/08/bests-of-2009-according-to-we-listen-for-you-blog/ http://slowcoustic.com/2009/12/08/bests-of-2009-according-to-we-listen-for-you-blog/#comments Tue, 08 Dec 2009 15:45:46 +0000 admin http://slowcoustic.com/?p=3300 Best of 2009 Blogger Crew Begins!

Today is the first day of the “Best of 2009″ Blogger crew submissions here on Slowcoustic!  To recap, what is happening is my fellow bloggers are submitting to me some things that struck them as “best” of this year (as this year winds to a close).  It can be about absolutely anything in relation to music and quite possibly everything (as we have an example of right here in the very first post).

The launch begins with WE LISTEN FOR YOU blog in the house providing their bests, nay, their recommendations, nay, their companion to all that is music for 2009.  You want a great album…check.  You want a video…check.  You want something you might have missed…check.  You want to have a beverage to down alongside that music…check.  Even if you want to fall in love…check.  See below for a breakdown of all you needed this past year.

~Smansmith

Best Album of 2009:

Clues – Clues

It’s hard to call a recent album timeless…but I’m a risk taker…the self titled album from Clues is timeless.  This majestic collection of perfect songwriting hit me with such strength that it’s the only album I’ve given a perfect score.  For more info, read the 10/10 review: REVIEW: Clues – Clues

“Ledmonton”

“Remembered Severed Head”

“Perfect Fit”

Best Soundtrack of 2009:

Fantastic Mr. Fox

In the wrong hands a soundtrack featuring The Beach Boys can be disastrous.  With Anderson, he uses “Heroes and Villains” and “Ol’ Man River”, staying away from the diner hits that most directors abuse in film.  Sprinkle in a Rolling Stones track and original work from Jarvis Cocker and you have a very smart soundtrack.

Fantastic Mr. Fox (Original Soundtrack)

Best Overlooked/Never Looked Albums of 2009

These three albums are all must spins that sadly didn’t get the thumbs up from Pitchfork…which meant they gathered dust in the attic.  Pull the draw string, climb the steps, and dust off these amazing albums…they deserve some time in your ears.

Tap Tap – “On My Way”

“Feeling Funny”

The Mint Chicks – Screens

“Hot On Your Heels”

Mint Chicks – Hot on Your Heels from Mint Chicks on Vimeo.

Uninhabitable Mansions – Nature Is A Taker

Best Drink to consume while listening to music of 2009:

If you are of legal age, I require you to spend a night with a nice glass of Woodford Reserve.  Put on your gem vinyl and sit back with the greatest drink in the world.  Take it straight with a cube or two…if bourbon is too strong for you add a small hit a ginger ale.  No other soda.  Do not put other sodas in this drink or I will find you.  Straight or ginger ale.  Cheers.

Best Music Blog of 2009:

AD might not give away the most mp3s but if you’re looking for the best music writing, this blog is it.

Best Record Store of 2009:

Music Crush of 2009:

Sophie Madeleine

I don’t know what crushes me more, her beauty or talent.  In the end it’s the talent with a sweet and smooth voice that kills.  Her star is just now rising, so jump on her bandwagon early…go buy her album.

Best Music Video of 2009:

Lucky Pineapple – “Moment In An Empty Street”

~~~

It has been a while since I did a blog round up, so it is more than needed.  There are soo many great blogs out there, so much great music, that I cannot keep up with it, so thank goodness for my blogroll peeps!  Lets see what they have been discussing lately.

~~

• Captain Obvious issued forth another “Covers” mixtape (always a great selection) – Find volume XIX HERE.
• Another Captain (Captains Dead) updates on the Roadside Graves tour HERE as well as launches a blog within a blog (Pop Zeus).
• Herohill shows us a preliminary “Best of 2009″, well part one at least.  We are both on board for that Timber Timbre album as well…check it HERE.
• I Pick My Nose blog owner Adrian is moving!  Yes, he is heading South Africa and will be on sabbatical for his music blogging.  Get there now to soak it up while you can, we only have about a week left!.  VISIT HIM.
• Posts, posts and more posts on the Siren Music Festival adorn Knox Road blog.  Not always afraid to tell it like it is reporting, so check it for yourself…
• Speaking of festivals, obviously Pitchfork came and went – See Love Shack, Baby – for a great play (at Pitchfork) by play (after Pitchfork) on Frightened Rabbit HERE.
• Speed of Dark always do a blog round up, just like this one (but on a regular basis that you can count on) each Friday – yesterday’s was “Tomato Time” – Check it HERE.
• Finally, Tsururadio has fallen in love with a man…Portugal, the Man to be exact.  Great post on a new chapter of the relationship HERE.

~~~

I will leave you today with a great sing along from Nathan Oliver out of Chapel Hill, North Carolina.  While this track from their “Cloud Animals” album released back in March doesn’t fully bring the scope of the band, I really like it.  The band has more energy than this “Slowcoustic” version of the band may lead you to believe.  The album “Cloud Animals” is a collection of music from the past two years and enjoys a more coiled energy – you feel the indie rock in them pushing through.  They have the rock n’ roll of summer with the singer songwriter chops and well penned lyrics of a folk band.  They mix elements of rock, folk, country (seen in tracks like Alone in a Fog and How Small We Have Become) while still bringing elements of fuzzed out post rock (Red Panda) with lullabye goodness (Cloud Animals).  Nice little collection of tunes.

“State Lines Pt. 3″ – Nathan Oliver – from 2009′s “Cloud Animals”

Check them out on their Website and MySpace.

Pick up a copy of the Album over at Pox World Empire for $10 by clicking the album cover below or you can always download from iTunes HERE.

~Smansmith

So class, head over to HearYa, and visit the HearYa Live Session 49: Horse Feathers to get blown away.

Watch the official video for “Curs in the Weeds” below then head over to get the live session version!

~Smansmith

p.s.  Don’t forget their Daytrotter Session as well.  Purchase a copy of “House with no Home” from Kill Rock Stars HERE.

Just sitting around in the “war room” of the internet media distribution centre here at Slowcoustic and was just doing a status check.  I know what you are thinking – “But Sman, this could take years of 3rd party inspections, focus groups, revenue audits…it’s not worth it!”.  Well friends, let’s do it the old fashion way…you know…crawling out of bed, half dressed and hit the computer in the spare room.  Nice – let’s get started.

~~~

• The new logo has been up for a week or so…thoughts?  Too big, too small, just right?  I am also asking as a few people have mentioned that the logo is almost invisible!  How you ask – some browsers are not displaying the lighter strip across the top (the one with clouds and some handwriting) and it is simply all the brown background – which would make a black logo hard to see!  THIS PHOTO is what is should look like.  If it doesn’t look like this to you send me an email to let me know and include your browser type and release – for example Firefox 3.0.1, etc.
• Speaking of logos…I think we are going to make up some stickers and possibly a shirt or two (mostly because I want one), but if you think you would want one – let us know (comments or email).

New Blogroller Alert!!! I have been following some bloggers via twitter and am including a couple more today as they have consistent quality posts, commentary and just are good places to find yourself.  The two included at this point are:

1. Captain’s Dead – Greg finds himself along the indie lines and runs a successful blog with a lot of content and you can rely on solid info.  You can also follow on Twitter – @captainsdead
2. Muzzle of Bees – Ryan is definitely one of the more popular blogs around (not unlike Captains Dead) and for good reason – quality, great info and good taste.  Follow on Twitter – @muzzleofbees

Okay you probably already follow both these blogs, but there are soo many good blogs out there, that honestly my blogroll could get away from me!  I have also picked the above as they are very entertaining via twitter.  Social media works then, doesn’t it class?

Well I will leave you today with a couple of Canadian acts that are included in a project I posted on for You Crazy Dreamers.  The project is “Saved By Saskatoon” and is chock full of great music and surprisingly enough a gratis download as needed.  The two tracks included are a orchestral gothic journey entitled “We Will Be Born Again” from These Hands as well as the gorgeous prairie ballad “My Ghost, Your Ghost” from Pearson.  Enjoy.

~Smansmith

This stuff is the freshest and newest of the new this week – okay that might be a overstatement, but is still good stuff.  Not that “new” really means anything around here…some of the best stuff is newly discovered and not necessarily new in the sense of released.  This is kinda like the reason I have started collecting a bit of vinyl audio discs and haven’t found the right “record player” yet…(drop me a line if you have suggestions on that front).  Let’s get to some blog suggestions:

• Ahhh, Bowerbirds’ “Upper Air” leaked all over the interwebs this week – it is really good, more of their signature gypsy folk with some bonus production (which does work for the most part).  I Guess I’m Floating blog had a bonus track up for a few minutes along with a few notes – maybe you got it prior to the “take down”?   They approve of the new album from what I gather…smart folks.
• You Crazy Dreamers (my other home) hooked me up with some new talent in St Augustine – this is some mellow french singer songwriter (vocals in English folks, don’t worry) – check it out HERE.
• Raven Sings The Blues pointed out the one thing that bugs me about Tom Brosseau…the fact that more people are not listening to him!  Visit RSTB and take a listen HERE.
• I have started to chew tobacco, kick up dust and down sour mash by the gallon.  You may know this as listening to Scott H. Biram‘s latest album.  I discovered him via the Nine Bullets blog – so visit them (and Scott)
• Last but not least, the Captain has his new covers mixtape out, another winner – visit HERE.

I leave you today with a interesting band – Dark Mean.  They provide you with what could be music made for soundtracks – not literally, but it feels like there is scope to the sound, like it is more than simply music.  More than simply guitars, piano and a kick drum…they are building to something.  Maybe that is why they are issuing 3 separate EPs en route to their full album release.  You can visit them on their Website and MySpace page, drop an email address and get a download of the latest EP “frankencottage” or free.  Take a sample of the mellow “Lullabye” and the more up tempo indie folk of “Happy Banjo” (quite aptly named, me thinks).

~Smansmith

]]> http://slowcoustic.com/2009/05/23/new-on-the-nets-this-week-13/feed/ 0 4:30 This stuff is the freshest and newest of the new this week - okay that might be a overstatement, but is still good stuff.  Not ... This stuff is the freshest and newest of the new this week - okay that might be a overstatement, but is still good stuff.  Not that "new" really means anything around here...some of the best stuff is newly discovered and not necessarily new in the sense of released.  This is kinda like the reason I have started collecting a bit of vinyl audio discs and haven't found the right "record player" yet...(drop me a line if you have suggestions on that front).  Let's get to some blog suggestions: Ahhh, Bowerbirds' "Upper Air" leaked all over the interwebs this week - it is really good, more of their signature gypsy folk with some bonus production (which does work for the most part).  I Guess I'm Floating blog had a bonus track up for a few minutes along with a few notes - maybe you got it prior to the "take down"?   They approve of the new album from what I gather...smart folks. You Crazy Dreamers (my other home) hooked me up with some new talent in St Augustine - this is some mellow french singer songwriter (vocals in English folks, don't worry) - check it out HERE. Raven Sings The Blues pointed out the one thing that bugs me about Tom Brosseau...the fact that more people are not listening to him!  Visit RSTB and take a listen HERE. I have started to chew tobacco, kick up dust and down sour mash by the gallon.  You may know this as listening to Scott H. Biram's latest album.  I discovered him via the Nine Bullets blog - so visit them (and Scott) Last but not least, the Captain has his new covers mixtape out, another winner - visit HERE. I leave you today with a interesting band - Dark Mean.  They provide you with what could be music made for soundtracks - not literally, but it feels like there is scope to the sound, like it is more than simply music.  More than simply guitars, piano and a kick drum...they are building to something.  Maybe that is why they are issuing 3 separate EPs en route to their full album release.  You can visit them on their Website and MySpace page, drop an email address and get a download of the latest EP "frankencottage" or free.  Take a sample of the mellow "Lullabye" and the more up tempo indie folk of "Happy Banjo" (quite aptly named, me thinks). ~Smansmith 'round the nets, blogroll... no yes http://slowcoustic.com/2009/04/30/eamon-mcgrath-makes-whiskey-sound-good/ http://slowcoustic.com/2009/04/30/eamon-mcgrath-makes-whiskey-sound-good/#comments Thu, 30 Apr 2009 12:58:21 +0000 slowcoustic http://slowcoustic.com/?p=1978 Just thought I would post something that oozes of late night, being down on your luck and gritty back alleys.  But for some reason it is something that still draws you in like its home.  Ladies and Gentleman, I give you Edmonton’s Eamon McGrath.

First showing on Slowcoustic had Eamon on a playlist here with the track “I Am Deer” from his Dead Empire EP which also brings you his post punk songwriter presence.  Just something about his voice, it is as if he spent the night screaming at the house band, only to end up sitting down after closing and showing them how it’s done.  The guy can belt it out and shake the room, but I find he truly excels in the gothic americana of his slower stuff.  If you like the below, make sure you hit up his MySpace page and download the Dead Empire EP – highly recommended.

If you needed a touch more, check out the good folks at Herohill for a bit more in depth look at the new album “13 Songs of Whiskey & Light” on their review here.

~~

Eamon McGrath

“Welcome to the Heart” (mp3)
from “13 Songs of Whiskey and Light”
(White Whale)

More On This Album

~Smansmith

So anyone who knows me knows that I am a little bit ridiculous about J. Tillman – the solo stuff.  Not that everyone immediately jumps his role in Fleet Foxes anymore, as most of you know him separate from his day job (I hope).  That being said, I almost wept uncontrollably when Adrian over at I Pick My Nose Blog finally put a link up to a set of 6 year old demos from Mr. Joshua Tillman back in February.  This set of demos has continuously impressed me and is a collection of almost entirely unreleased music (1 song, “Ties That Bind” did eventually make it to his sophomoric release “Long May You Run, J. Tillman”).  I can honestly say that this was the single best thing (musically) to happen to me in the last bit, yes dramatic, but true none the less.

Sure, J. Tillman released “Vacilando Territory Blues” this year and it is great album, but the “Demo Cassette” is so incredibly intimate, delicate and beautiful, I feel it out shines VTB (and anything else released by anyone out there recently).  So to say I recommend it would be an understatement – It is a must.  If you enjoy the early J. Tillman albums like “I Will Return” and “Long May You Run”, PLEASE visit “I Pick My Nose” HERE to sample and download the 9 tracks – you will not regret it.  From the moment he relives his youth with his brother Zach in “Kids” or the quiver in his voice on “Tripwire” – chills will form, eyes will glaze over, breathing will become slow, you will be lost in it.

So I am posting one song in order to persuade you to head over yonder to get the rest.  I take no credit for anything here, you must send your praise/readership/cheques & money orders to IPMN and this elusive “friend” that provided said recordings.  I for one will always be indebted for the songs, for they are absolutely the best unreleased recordings I am aware of, period.

~Smansmith

image from gapingvoid: “cartoons drawn on the back of business cards” (read it)

I have been adding a few more blogs to my ever growing Slowcoustic Blogroll lately.  I have come to think the more one gets out and visits other blogs/websites, your world just gets that much bigger (as opposed to the common misconception of it becoming smaller).  I have been victim of living in a bubble at times, and more and more there is just good stuff in the blogger community.  Don’t get me wrong it is not a perfect world, some blogs are ass, but some are full of great music, commentary and people.

I mean in the new world of “online” friends what is to say that you don’t connect more with someone you never physically meet versus the person in the next cubicle.  One of the greatest things in my short time of blogging is getting an email from Linda over at Speed of Dark and her ideas of community and what one could (and should) expect from each other (even if only in the blogger community…for now).  Bloggers will save the world one day, you just wait…or was that Obama…I know if was one of the two.

Okay long lead in to a simple task of adding in a few of the good guys, but you know what I am getting at right?  Starting out – new blog to me “Knox Road” is on as I found myself reading a post, making a comment….then reading another post, making a comment…this is a good sign.  There is a bit of everything indie alongside a good read.  Joining in with the former East Coast USA blog, I give you “Happy Days Are Here Again” who is another one of my Italian friends.  HDAHA – who’s blog at times could be my “sister blog” with similar taste in music, this is a good thing, no?  Also, don’t be afraid, it is in Italian but worth translating!

So yeah, check ‘em out, ya hear.

~Smansmith

So yes, promo emails are currently running rampant in many a blogger inbox.  SXSW must be right around the corner.  I think I got 5 just on my drive into work today (I can only imagine for the larger blogs!).  I am all for info, but I just hate being struck across the face (albeit only open hand slapped) as I once again am not taking the trek to Austin to see the subjects of this barrage of electronic correspondence.

One reason I would go is The Low Anthem (and almost 79 other bands) and I was happy to get the email to announce the SXSW shows and tour (including Bonnaroo – one more I will most likely miss…okay fine, I will miss).  The particular reason I liked getting this PR email is the fact that they included a track to include and it is probably one of my top 10 songs of 2008 – the “title” track to last year’s “Oh My God, Charlie Darwin”.

I love this song – it is soo good.  I think I first heard it after I waited anxiously to pick up the album due to a blog post that was not my own.  Now, I know what you are saying to yourself – blogs help you discover music…yeah, bloggers also love bloggers that help them discover music as well.  I believe it was good ol’ Captain Obvious (click my blogroll – see for your self) when he put a few tracks on his blog.  I immediately purchased their previous album “What The Crow Brings” as the new album was not released yet.  The Low Anthem have since become a favourite and the song included in this post is on the top of the heap for me.

The song “Charlie Darwin” is spectacular, fully acoustic – gospel-esque harmonies, muted harmonica, strumming of the acoustic guitar to create the backbone of this siren song.  While many may think it just another indie ballad, listen again, then again – then slap yourself for thinking it just another indie ballad.

“And who could heed the words of Charlie Darwin
Fighting for a system built to fail
Spooning water from their broken vessels
As far as I can see there is no land”

Damn…

Many of you will already have heard the album many times as it is too great to have missed – but stop, listen again and check out a some tour dates in the link below and see them live if you are able – if to only make a Western Canadian blogger jealous.

Click HERE for dates – lots of shows, some with Lisa Hannigan and even Ray LaMontagne!

Visit The Low Anthem on their Website and MySpace.

~Smansmith

So glad it is the weekend this time.  Long week (in my mind at least) and I just want to relax, maybe listen to some music, surf the net and possibly (re: most likely) enjoy a couple of pints of Canadian lager.  Just sounds like a great weekend to me.  Let’s see what went on around the blogosphere (or my blog roll) in the week that seemed soo long to me.

~~

• Good folks (no pun intended) over at An Inside Out Sock posted on a some “Scary Eerie Splatter Folk” in the form of the group Thinguma*jigsaw – visit this great find.
• Cable & Tweed posted on the new Laura Gibson from one of my favourite labels “Hush Recordings” – It’s called “Beasts of Seasons” and you can check a video they posted right here.
• Fellow Canucks Herohill posted on the AUX TV videos for Timber Timbre – Loved the Camera Music video “channel” ever since having Scott Cameron’s series on Brian Borcherdt.  Visit the rock for a viewing over yonder.
• Speed of Dark posted a “Finally Friday Acoustic” post with some nice tracks, tossed together a (Slowcoustic favourite) Death Vessel throwback and today posted on some interesting covers.  I am super impressed with SOD, henceforth to be on the ol’ blog roll.
• Captain Obvious had both The Tallest Man on Earth (via video) and Anders Parker on his site this week – I think I will eventually force Capt. to move to a full folk blog…yeah, that’s it.

So check it, blog roll love from your truly (and it is easier with my Google reader to find all this sh#t…), no seriously, I can’t recommend the blogs above more, so fly through the “ethernet” of blogs and enjoy more than enough music to keep y’all going for another week.

~~

Today I leave you with two artists that I have recently and not so recently come across.  Italian Folk artist “Black Eyed Dog” whom I was just introduced to, and Jacob Fannin who I have been listening to for a bit now.  A bit of a cheat sheet on both:

Jacob Fannin – introduced due to a post on fellow Wisconsinite John Statz.  While Statz is a bit more Americana, Fannin brings a lighter sound with use of guitar and piano in what he calls “Acoustic, Alternative Pop”.
Take a listen on his WEBSITE and his MySpace Page.

Black Eyed Dog – Italian label “Ghost Records” brings Fabio Parrinello’s singer songwriter persona named after a Nick Drake track to my inbox.  Nice stuff consisting of more guitar influenced piano folk.
Take a listen on his LABEL SITE and his MySpace Page.

While Black Eyed Dog being a touch more sombre folk than Fannin’s sombre pop, both compliment each other and could possibly be the opposite sides of the same coin.  You decide.

~Smansmith

What is new on the Interwebs this week or so,?  Well, let’s find out what took place over the at the HQ and what we have noticed around the web in the last bit, shall we?

• New Blogrollers hit Slowcoustic in the form of “Cable & Tweed” which is the graphic novel version of a great southern indie blog (or is it the other way around)?  Also we have an up and comer (hey, aren’t I just starting out, who am I to say “up and comer”?) in the form of “Laughing Evergreens” which has some great stuff and is becoming a regular ’round these parts.
• Is it or isn’t it?  The “new” Frightened Rabbit video surfaces….hmmmm – check Indie Music Filter for a quick see and post in the comments if you get confirmation.  Still wouldn’t be arse if it isn’t, me thinks.
• iTunes has dropped and is completely removing all DRM from the iTunes Music Store by end of the 1st Quarter – Great news.  I like the new plan, sure some tunes are more expensive, some are less – but now I can comfortably download and recommend iTunes on the blog.  Check Gizmodo peeps.
• Song, By Toad is getting his sh*t together with his site (HA, this isn’t disrespect, If you read his blog, this is what he would say) and it is looking good.  Especially his best of list being all in place.  See below for a track from his #1 album from Meursault that just so happens to be from his label.
• Everybody should go take a look a my Italian friend’s “best of 2008 list” on his site – Tracce di emozioni which include links to his reviews on Onda rock (come on, you can use Google translate on the Italian Pitchfork!).  Don’t forget his playlists, go back a month or so to find the lastest – always a great listen for free download.

Gotta go and work on my Last.fm members playlist for tomorrow, enjoy your weekend everyone.

~Smansmith

So I have been out of the loop a bit with the holidays and such, and I have been a bit behind on catching up with what is going on in the world of music blogging lately, but here we go on another “New on the ‘Nets this week” post.

~~

• Received my copy of A Singer of Songs new album “I Dig for Gold” which is readily available on his MySpace page HERE.  Simply drop him a line and get a FREE CD download, now come on you can’t beat this!  Check out a track below from said album…now, go.  Go get it!
• One of my new favourite albums is from Doug Burr and is entitled “The Shawl” – see my fellow Blogrollers You Crazy Dreamers’ post and Captain Obvious’ post for some good vibes.  This album is truly a beautiful sounding concept album, and honestly could have been in my top albums for 2008 had I only found it sooner.  Check out Doug Burr here.
• Speaking of Blogrolling – new inductee is KOKOMO WebRadio!  Nice little outfit from France who assists in getting you some music to stream.  Swing on by an say hi, why don’t ya.
• Fellow Canadian Blog Chromewaves posted links to all three of Portishead’s videos for their “Third” Album.  Of course you can all find them on Youtube, but here they are getting some good words and conveniently located links all in one place!
• For all you Comix lovin’ indie nerds, the good folks at Cable & Tweed have their top 10 for 2008 and only 3 posts earlier is the new X-men Trailer….now that is some good readin’!

Well that is all I can think of at the moment, hopefully everyone is not back to work yet (unlike myself) and still have the rest of the year to relax and drink in what is left of ’08.  The next installment of “New on the ‘Nets” to hit sometime in 2009!

~Smansmith

~~

It is with great pleasure that I take place on the open-minded Smansmith of Slowcoustic and I want to thank him for this invitation. You can rest assured that this squat won’t take longer than it takes to present you this 2008 selection, a list that could vary eternally as each of these albums sounds different, and each of these songs appeal to me according my moods… So, after one year of blogging at youcrazydreamers.com, rather than a ranking, I present you a hodge podge that captured my heart and I’m eager to share it.

Unclassifiable. Risking of repeating myself yet once again, the rhythm of this album is simply irresistible. And if it wasn’t for this reason, it would be on top of this list anyway. Oh My God Charlie Darwin is the best representation of the following list.
Mood : moodful.
Mp3 : To Ohio

This songwriter from Minnesota belongs to those artists who justify my motivation to be a participant at YCD.com. It’s a second album I definitely recommend to all those loyal readers of slowcoustic.com. If you’re stuck for X-mas stocking ideas, Aaron just released a new album entitled Christmas Songs.
Mood : slowcoustic.
Mp3 : Small Town

The discovery of this young Californian songwriter last year with “Picnic on the 405″ doesn’t cease to leave ever growing traces in my library, which contains from that moment on 3 of his latest succulent albums! After several months, Soft Hail still gets better with each listen and automatically deserves its place in this top 10. You will have understood that this album is inescapable, but don’t miss out on the rest of his discography. And if I’m not mistaken a new live recording is available since a couple of weeks!
Mood : bulimic
Mp3 : Portland Basement

His previous album Loveheart already grabbed me with its Verily, Butterfly, Loveheart to name just a few worth remembering, each one offering different signatures. Digging his own groove between pop and folk electro, on his new album Merz was able to continue these delicate mixes, flattering the converted and seducing the novices: with his truck (camion), he crosses new landscapes like a second volume of a history not yet unraveled.
Mood : Flying High
Mp3 : Moi & Mon Camion

Out of a sense of shame, when I was introducing M. Penn at Youcrazydreamers, I didn’t dare to mention his age, being somewhat unusual for a first release. But, when listening to all those young talents, you also have to recognize that sometimes only age allows to walk certain roads: the roads of love. Truth is, no matter the youthfulness of M. Penn, this album is an absolute delight.
I’d be unstoppable in telling about my appreciation for such an album, unstoppable in thanking M. Penn for being.
Mood : Loving
Mp3 : Enough

Another fantastic discovery, this collection of winter songs. With tremendous efficiency, Wade Ogle’s compositions offer a splendid first impression and I just can’t wait for his next album to come out.
Mood: Storytelling
Mp3 : Your Side of the Mountain

Canadians: you just can’t get around them! I have to admit that I wasn’t a fan of The Wailin’ Jennys, but Annabelle Chvostek entered my pantheon of female songwriters through the big gate, alongside Mieka Pauley, Lindsay Mac and Kelley McRae! Described as “contemporary urban roots”, Annabelle’s music offers a variety of astounding landscapes.
Mood : Standing Ovation
Mp3 : Resilience

03 – Arlan Feiles – Come Sunday Morning
Sublime discovery of the year. Come Sunday Morning, the second album of Arlan Feiles combines 12 songs of intense beauty and of exceptional musical purity.
Mood : Starving
Mp3 : Come Sunday Morning

The sistership album of “What the River gave the Boat” is undeniably one of the best albums of the year. Mark Berube produces a new masterpiece. This Canadian is a real genius: songwriter, composer, singer, multi-instrumentalist and travel agent on top of that (added advantage: it’s low-cost!)
Mood : Traveling
Mp3 : Flowers on the Stones

The regular visitors of this blog will know of my admiration for this talented and ever so generous singer-songwriter. Album after album, M. Stead’s creative talent is growing, improving, or even more correct, it is elevating and giving us a chance to take a deep look at ourselves. This latest collection is an absolute gem: the quintessence of sharing.
Mood : Thoughtful
Mp3 : Breathe

Dealing with EPs ; this year bring numerous valuable releases… Most of the following ones were really too short:

• Joe Pug – Nation of Heat
• Daisy Chapman – And There Shall be None
• Phillip Bracken – Everything looks Better in Candlelight
• The Venus Illuminato – Company With Kings
• The Gunshy – I Gave Too Much Time to the Wine
• Wesley Jensen – Stories

Finally,  and in order to face the coming year here are some special warnings for these following artists:

• Holcombe Waller – Into The Dark Unknown
• Misty Lyn – For the Dead
• Matt Jones – The Black Path
• Fraser Anderson
• Jeb Bows

*Honorable mentions (or simply more best of the year) may also be extended to additional great albums (this will always happen with multiple bloggers!!) courtesy of my on-line brother Martin;

• The Sumner Brothers – The Sumner Brothers
• Mumford & Sons – Both EP’s!!
• Band Of Annuals – Respondez
• The Walkmen – You and Me
• Pete Molinari – A Virtual Landslide

~~

There you have it, the last day of “Bests”.  I must say it was quite a ride and I would like to thanks all those great blogs that took part!

~Smansmith

Blogger “E” from das klienicum, has provided a wealth of information on his top music selections of 2008 and believe it or not, this may be hitting the pages of Slowcoustic prior to being revealed on his own blog!  So I guess you can consider this the advance preview of the Best 50 Albums of 2008 according to das klienicum.

(I have added in some tracks here and there for an idea, but I apologize for not having a track from each!)

**UPDATE** – If you already scanned the post – I have uploaded more tracks for perusal thank to “E” – come on people – there is like 20 tracks here!

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Best Albums of 2008

1.) portishead – third
listen – Portishead – “We Carry On (live ATP ’07)”

2.) fleet foxes – s/t

3.) of montreal – skeletal lamping
listen – Of Montreal – Id Engager

4.) the magnetic fields – distortion
listen – The Magnetic Fields – The Nun’s Littany

5.) liz durrett – outside our gates
listen – Liz Durrett – “Wild As Them”

6.) frontier ruckus – the orion songbook

7.) ida – lovers prayer

8.) evangelista – hello voyager

9.) the lucksmiths – first frost
listen – The Lucksmiths – “Good Light”

10.) mia doi todd – gea
listen – Mia Doi Todd – Sleepless Night

11.) merz – moi et mon camion

12.) the felice brothers – s/t
listen – The Felice Brothers – Wonderful Life

13.) sam amidon – all is well

14.) shearwater – rook
listen – Shearwater  – The Snow Leopard

15.) peter broderick – home

16.) mary hampton – my mother’s children
listen – Mary Hampton – Because You’re Young

17.) j. tillman – vacilando territory blues
listen – J. Tillman – “Steel On Steel”

18.) chad vangaalen – soft airplane

19.) said the shark – silly killings
listen – Said The Shark – magic man

20.) beatbeat whisper – wonder continental

21.) talkdemonic – eyes at half mast
listen – Talkdemonic – Duality of Deathening

22.) nalle – the sirens wave
listen – Nalle – “Alice’s Ladder”

23.) headless heroes – the silence of love

24.) wild beasts – limbo, panto

25.) bodies of water – a certain feeling
listen – Bodies of Water – “Gold, Tan, Peach and Grey”

26.) rose kemp – unholy majesty

27.) plants and animals – parc avenue

28.) lau nau – nukkuu
listen – Lau Nau – “Lue Kartalta”

29.) alina simone – everyone is crying out to me, beware

30.) the dodos – visiter

31.) robert forster – the evangelist

32.) cat power – jukebox

33.) matt bauer – the island moves in the storm

34.) essie jain – the inbetween

35.) billy bragg – mr love & justice

36.) joanne robertson – the lighter
listen – Joanne Robertson – “Dragg”

37.) malcolm middleton – sleight of heart

38.) scott matthew – s/t
listen – Scott Matthew – little bird

39.) toumani diabate – the mande variations

40.) johnny flynn – a larum

41.) jayber crow – two short stories

42.) thao nguyen & the get down stay down – we brave bee stings and all

43.) white hinterland – phylactery factory

44.) kaki king – dreaming of revenge
listen – Kaki King – “Bone Chaos In The Castle”

45.) bowery boy blue – stalk that myth
listen – Bowery Boy Blue – “Ah, What a Cruel Change”

46.) james yorkston – when the haar rolls in

47.) constantines – kensington heights
listen – Constantines – “Hard Feelings”

48.) ignatz – III

49.) vampire weekend – s/t

50.) benjamin wetherill – laura

~~

There you have it, 50 greats from the last 12 months. There is a lot here, so now you have a shopping list for the new year… Make sure you swing by das klienicum to see the actual post when it goes live there – as there will still be best EPs, best concerts and even top songs!

~Smansmith

~~~

~~

13.  Vetiver – More Of The Past

Freak-folk. New-folk. I have no idea what any of it means, but this nostalgic collection of covers (of obscure shit I’ve never heard of) is a real treat.
~Listen – Vetiver – See You Tonight

12.  The Mountain Goats – Satanic Messiah

John Darnielle writes great songs in his sleep. True story.
~Listen – The Mountain Goats – Satanic Messiah

11.  Rob St John – Like Alchemy

Every now and then I get something in my inbox worth hearing. Think Bill Callahan, but prettier and with more melodic vocals.
~Listen – Rob St. John – Paper Ships

10.  Adam Arcuragi – Soldiers For Feet

Miley Cyrus makes a billion dollars a year. Adam Arcuragi doesn’t. There is no justice in the world.
~Listen – Adam Arcuragi – The Old Sears & Roebuck Catalogue

9.  Blue Giant – Target Heart

All-star cast of Portland musicians create a tasty alt. country EP that sounds 35 years old. “Target Heart” sounds like a lost Neil Young song. An awesome Neil Young song.
~Listen – Blue Giant – Target Heart

8.  Final Fantasy – Spectrum, 14th Century

Owen Pallett, buddy… you violin virtuoso you… if I were into guys you and Gael Garcia Bernal would be on my shortlist… wait, what?
~Listen – Final Fantasy – Cockatrice

7.  Chris Bathgate – Wait, Skeleton

Criminally overlooked Michigan songwriter follows up the incredible “A Cork Tale Wake” with a delicious handful of tunes.
~Listen – Chris Bathgate – Casual Way

6.  Samantha Crain – The Confiscation

Wise-beyond-her-years singer/songwriter with a knack for storytelling and melody. Big things to come.
~Listen – Samantha Crain – The River

5.  Brian Borcherdt – Coyotes

Sparse, moody, intoxicating collection of songs from the Holy Fuck keyboardist. And yes, I just wanted to type “Holy Fuck”.
~Listen – Brian Borcherdt – While I Was Asleep

4.  The Twilight Sad – Here, It Never Snowed, Afterwards It Did

Imaginitive Re-Interpretations of their own songs along with a killer Daniel Johnston cover = Badass.
~Listen – The Twighlight Sad – Cold Days From The Birdhouse

3.  Annuals – Wet Zoo

This gem of an EP is quieter, more subdued, and far superior to their 2008 full-length “Such Fun”.
~Listen – Annuals – Sore

2.  The Avett Brothers – The Gleam II

Perhaps not quite as good as the first Gleam EP but damn close. A Rick Rubin-produced full length is on its way. *Wets Pants*
~Listen – The Avett Brothers – Bella Donna

1. Joe Pug – Nation Of Heat

Truly Dylanesque and one of the most impressive debuts ever. And I’m not just saying that because it’s in the music-blogger handbook under the “Obligatory Comparisons” Chapter.
~Definitely Listen – Joe Pug – Nation Of Heat

~~

There you have it, the top 13 EPs by the Captain – make sure you drop by “Thanks Captain Obvious” and let him know you care!  You might also find his top 50 albums of 2008 that is worth memorizing as well, so get going!

Stick around these parts, two more days of “Bests” on their way!

~Smansmith

]]> http://slowcoustic.com/2008/12/17/the-top-13-eps-of-2008-as-bequeathed-by-the-captain/feed/ 4 http://slowcoustic.com/2008/12/16/womenfolk-presents-albums-2008/ http://slowcoustic.com/2008/12/16/womenfolk-presents-albums-2008/#comments Tue, 16 Dec 2008 13:58:04 +0000 slowcoustic http://slowcoustic.com/?p=848 Here we are with Day 2 of the “Week of Bests” with Womenfolk’s Best Album’s for 2008.  As expected you might find the fairer sex represented quite predominantly ;-).   Read on below and discover the beauty from the Women of folk or feel free to visit the original post here.

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I’ve never really had a ‘best of’ post. While I always found them interesting, I’ve never taken to task rounding up all of the albums I’ve either purchased or have been sent over the course of the year and whittling them down to a select ten that I felt were true standouts. I suppose I’ve always felt that as soon as I finalized my ten choices, I’d then discover a couple of albums I completely forgot to consider that might have otherwise had made the list. But this year, I’m willing to give it a shot.

So at the risk of forgetting other noteworthy albums that were released within the last 365 days, here are Womenfolk’s top 10 albums of 2008 that I truly felt were “top drawer”.

1. Sam Phillips – Don’t Do Anything

Since signing with Nonesuch Records, every album Sam Phillips has released has been magnificent. There are few songwriters working today that seem to possess that “it” factor that makes Phillips such a highly respected artist. And she does it so effortlessly.

Don’t Do Anything proved that Phillips could self-produce an album without the help of her long-time producer and former husband, T-Bone Burnett, and not lose the magic that previous Sam Phillips records possessed.

Download:
Sam Phillips – Flowers Up

Purchase: SamPhillips.com | iTunes | Amazon | Amazon MP3

2. Lex Land – Orange Days On Lemon Street

Lex Land was one of those discoveries you make and you’re so glad you did. Her debut album, Orange Days On Lemon Street, is a treasure trove of well-crafted songs, some intense and powerful, others served with a subtle, yet stinging delivery. I can’t wait to see what she does next.

Download:
Lex Land – My Fault. Your Mistake.

3. Brooke Waggoner – Heal For The Honey

Like the aforementioned Ms. Land, Brooke Waggoner is another new discovery I made this year, and one that immediately left an impression. Her songs are wonderfully infectious and eccentric, much in the same way as Sufjan Stevens. Her full-length debut, Heal For The Honey, is a sharp and unique record that showcases Waggoner’s well-trained piano playing, her love of rhyme and her unconventional approach at songwriting.

Download:
Brooke Waggoner – Tender Mending

Purchase

iTunes | Amazon MP3

4. Ane Brun – Changing Of The Seasons

Ane Brun‘s Changing Of The Seasons solidifies the songwriter’s talent of turning heart-wrenching tales of sadness and woe and transforming them into breathtakingly powerful songs. Changing Of The Seasons continues Brun’s unique songwriting style and her captivating sound.

Download:
Ane Brun – Don’t Leave

Purchase

Official Site | iTunes | Amazon | Amazon MP3

5. Katie Herzig – Apple Tree

Nashville’s Katie Herzig is one of the most promising artists to emerge from the music scene. And her latest, Apple Tree, stands as a testament to that fact. Her songs are both smart, sweet and primed for radio. It’s no wonder that television shows like Grey’s Anatomy have featured her songs numerous times. At least somebody’s noticing.

Download:
Katie Herzig – How The West Was Won

6. Grey Anne – facts n figurines

Thanks to the people at Greyday Records, I was introduced to the music of Grey Anne (a.k.a. Anne Adams, Per Se). Her debut album, facts n figurines was surprisingly original and a welcome addition to my musical collection. I can see why Portland’s so proud of her.

Download:
Grey Anne – Adelaide

Purchase: Greyday Records

7. Kate York – For You

Since her 2006 album, Sadlylove, I’ve been keeping an eye out for what Kate York would do next. Her latest is For You, an album I’ve been thoroughly enjoying. Smooth and soothing, York has a knack for creating perfect morsels of ear candy. It’s easy listening without being disposable.

For You is currently only available via York’s MySpace page, but will be sold on iTunes soon.

Download:
Kate York – For You

8. Lisa Hannigan – Sea Sew

I’ll freely admit that I’m not the biggest Damien Rice fan, but I am familiar with both him and Lisa Hannigan, who has accompanied Rice on his tour and in recording studios for several years. When I discovered Hannigan had finally released her solo debut, my interest was only mildly piqued.

But lo and behold, Hannigan’s Sea Sew is a welcome surprise; full of strong, introspective lyrics and beautifully arranged compositions, Hannigan easily wins my vote for one of my favorite albums of the year.

Download:
Lisa Hannigan – Pistashio

Purchase

LisaHannigan.ie | iTunes | Amazon MP3

9. Jill Tracy – The Bittersweet Contrain

Despite my love of folk, pop and rock, I have a love for the darker side of things, too. Thankfully, Jill Tracy is willing to fill that void for me.

The San Franciscan’s latest, The Bittersweet Constrain, released during the first half of the year, is her third foray into what I refer to as cabaret noir. Tracy is not just a recording artist, as her live shows consist of theatrics and emotive storytelling. And like Tracy, The Bittersweet Constrain is thick with mood.

Download:
Jill Tracy – I Can’t Shake It

10. Laura Marling – Alas I Cannot Swim

England’s Laura Marling released her debut, Alas I Cannot Swim, toward the beginning of the year and I’ve been amazed with it ever since its release. At only 18, Marling’s songwriting abilities are remarkable. Both quirky and confident, Alas I Cannot Swim is chock-full of acoustic strumming and sharp-witted observations.

Download:
Laura Marling – My Manic And I

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There you have it, make sure to drop by Womenfolk and say hi, visit and pick up a CD.  Yes, you can pick up Womenfolk: the CD!  While the CD is not from this list, it has even more examples on some great female singer songwriters.

Tomorrow is Day 3 and it will be a big one, make sure you stick around!

~Smansmith

I would like to welcome everyone to a week of “Bests” from good friends on the old Slowcoustic Blogroll.  I am honoured to have all 5 days (Monday through Friday) this week dedicated to what my fellow bloggers think are some of the best things they have found this past year.  As previously mentioned the five blogs will each get their own day in the spotlight here on Slowcoustic, and I am extremely excited about it.  To not take anything away, let’s get on with it and unveil Day 1.

The week of “Bests” starts with the always lovely Agnes from her blog – “It All Started With Carbon Monoxide“.  She has graced us with something I think we always want – to be able to have a best of the year that isn’t restricted to actually being from that calendar year.  Nice stuff.  Check out her review and picks below!

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Behind The Times

I only discovered music blogs about 18 months ago, and have been writing my own for only just under a year. In that time I’ve discovered truckloads of music and have truly realized the abundance of wonderful sounds available out there. These are some of the songs that have soundtracked 2008 for me, even though they weren’t released this year. I had a shortlist of about 12 tracks in the beginning, but realized that the majority of them were slowcoustic-esque songs so I ditched the more uptempo ones to narrow it down to the list you see now. Enjoy!

Amiina – Rugla (haunting arrangements from an Icelandic string quartet)

Earlier this year I lived about five minutes away from a man made lake in the middle of a large rural town. I used to walk down to the lake, run around it and then walk back home. This song was the soundtrack of those jaunts, although it’s about as far removed from exercise music as you can imagine. There was something about the rhythm though that seemed to match my footsteps, and it made me forget about my laboured breaths and dry throat. Listening to it now, I can picture the path winding through the trees before me and the ducks floating serenely on the surface of the water.

Joan As Police Woman – The Ride (quiet, late night vibe, nice strings and sultry vocals)

At the start of the year I was working nights and I’d finish at 12 or 1 in the morning and come home and still be all wired and awake. It was a really hot summer too so the nights were still quite warm. I used to grab something to eat, have a beer or two and surf the blogs looking for good tunes before plonking into bed around 3 or 4 and waking up around noon the next day. This song was the perfect accompaniment to those long balmy nights.

Lanterns On The Lake – Caught On The Way (dreamy, ethereal vocals and instrumentation)

When I was a kid, and later on as an adult, I devoured the Narnia books, re-reading them several times. In ‘Voyage Of The Dawn Treader’ Lucy, Edmund and Eustance travel with Prince Caspian to recover seven lost lords. Along the way they meet a fallen star and his daughter who live on the island at the beginning of the end of the world. I reckon this is how she would sound when she sang.

Teitur – I Was Just Thinking (acoustic lament of lost love)

This song is all about making peace with the breakdown of a relationship and while it’s pretty melancholy, it’s beautifully executed and maintains a glimmer of hope all the way through. I never get tired of this one.

William Fitzsimmons – Everything Has Changed (self-recorded lo-fi by multi instrumental singer-songwriter)

When I heard this song earlier this year I knew that I’d come across it somewhere before and it took me a while to figure out where. It’s in an episode of ‘Scrubs’ which is a show that I initially resisted for several years, thinking that it was dumb and irrelevant. It’s now one of my favourites, largely for its ability to be daggy, comical and touching within the space of five minutes. Zach Braff has some great taste musically (think Garden State) and I believe he’s responsible for the inclusion of many of the tunes you hear on ‘Scrubs’.

Angus & Julia Stone – Wasted (acoustic folk duo from Sydney, Australia)

I’ve only known about this song for a couple of months but it’s quickly become a firm favourite. ‘I’m so wasted on you’… I can’t count the number of times I’ve wanted to use that line before! This track was quite often the only good thing about getting in the car and driving to work during a month or so of report writing and last minute assessment of my students. And how come I can’t sing like that?

Brandi Carlile – Tragedy (Austin Cello Version) (cello based gorgeousness with dark smoky vocals)

This song hits me hard every time. It’s not so much the lyrics, but the way the vocals dip and soar over that deep arching cello. And if I can’t sing like Julia, surely I should be able to sing like Brandi!

Okkervil River – A Stone (melancholy lyrical brilliance)

My first introduction to Okkervil River. I can’t remember who first got me into these guys, but whoever and wherever you are, I salute you. I was lucky enough to see them live early this year and this song was the highlight of a show stuffed full of highlights. It was a stripped down acoustic version, three piece – guitar, bass and horns. It began all slow and drawn out – probably a step or two slower than this album version. I was grinning like an idiot the entire way through, because it was just so damn good, and when he got to the last verse I realized I was holding my breath. It was just Will Sheff’s voice, no backing and each word was carefully measured out to create an effect that literally left a crowd of a few hundred people in complete and silent awe. I’m not ashamed to say that I even shed a quiet tear.

Sigur Rós – Starálfur (angelic Icelandic post-rock)

Beginning and ending this list with tunes from Iceland. This is my most played song of the year. Strings. Piano. Words that I don’t understand, yet still speak to me. The closest I’ll ever come to an actual spiritual experience. I can’t recommend this highly enough.

~~

Make sure you head over to It All Started With Carbon Monoxide to say hi and for more great music.  You might also find more best of 2008 that is from 2008!  Stay tuned for tomorrow and more guest blogger love.

~Smansmith