Quick hitter today with a new album from Philadelphia’s Psalmships.  We have featured Joshua Britton (& crew) on the blog before and his eerie sense of ambient folk and he once again pulls out the stops with his new live album release “Baby, I’m Wild” due out next week as a free download!

I think the facebook page description sums up what you can expect upon first listen before you submerge in it and make your own call.

“Psalmships creates ghost folk, reeling in the minimal with atmospheric restraint.”

Today you can listen to 2 streams from the album (out on Bandcamp now and for free download next week) that cover two highly respected and covered artists in Jason Molina and Jeff Mangum:

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The covers have the delivery and timbre of each original artist and that is what is kind of chilling…listen for yourself and catch the entire thing on his bandcamp page now.

Visit Psalmships: Facebook | Website | Bandcamp

~Smansmith

New video for the track “Woman” from Timber Timbre’s new album Creep On Creepin’ On, set to be released next week!
Get your creepin’ on below!

Find the new album via Arts & Crafts or visit the Timber Timbre site.  Also, make sure to see if TT are coming to your neck of the woods with their extensive tour here (Calgary – May 28th!!).

Listen:

~Smansmith

Just a quick one to mention that while this post does not have any new tracks, both artists (Loch Lomond & The Builders and the Butchers) had new albums out recently – so why didn’t I mention the split 12″ they did??  [See Slowcoustic mentions of Loch Lomond's "Little Me Will Start a Storm" HERE and The Builders and the Butchers' "Dead Reckoning" HERE.]

Maybe this post also came to be because I just set up my turntable again.  Having started listening to vinyl through more than computer speakers mixed with the bands being pretty darn good led to this post…I assume.   Any excuse to recommend buying music, and then music on vinyl, I guess.  You can purchase the split 12″ they did last year from Bladen County Records and my good friends over at Song, by Toad Records.

So nothing really new here, just a couple of great tracks that make for an interesting release (as I wouldn’t normally put these two bands together).  With the whole idea of vinyl having 2 sides to the music might be the best thing for this split 12″ and really makes it work – in particular going from the airy sounds of Loch Lomond to the (at times) fever pitch of The Builders and the Butchers.  Yes, that is what I’m going with.
Loch Lomond
“Field Report” (mp3)
“When it Rains” (mp3)

from “Split 12 inch”
(Bladen County Records)

Buy at iTunes Music Store
Buy at Amazon MP3
Buy the 12″ at Song, by Toad Records
More On This Album

~Smansmith

Timber Timbre has always intrigued me with his cryptic unique sound.  And once again, he brings it with the new lead off single to his upcoming album.  At least we do know (so far) that more of his signature gothic folk is on its way.  This makes me happy and looking forward to the April 5th release date.

If you’re Canadian you will most likely be familiar with Taylor Kirk & company’s music for a few years now and with his albums starting to be released (and re-released) globally, more people are finding this gem of a local hero.  His music brings in an aura that is hard to describe, but you know it immediately – almost as if your hearing became equivalent to watching grainy black & white movies from the 1940s.  There is a bit of gothic mixed with “folk” and even jazz and blues – and that voice coming out of the unassuming Kirk is something else.

Listen above with me as we wait or you can grab a copy to download with your PRE-ORDER.  Check out the package options on that pre-order link as well, it all looks very tempting.

Check out the artwork – this is very much Timber Timbre!

~Smansmith

So I took the weekend off the blog to enjoy Canadian Thanksgiving.  The weekend and I have no real personal attachment other than a long weekend and eating a large meal.  But let’s be serious, isn’t that every holiday…amiright?  Honestly it is nice to have a full family meal (the in-laws at least, I am an only child and single parent product…can you say after school special? Awwwwwwww.)

Aaaaannnnyyyway.  I thought I would ease into the week and simply give a couple links and streams of some songs I have been listening to lately and did indeed make an appearance over the holiday weekend.  Giving thanks for various mp3s, I guess…

~

The first track is from Jose Delhart’s “Little Red Buddha” album that is immensely moody, slightly mexi-cali influenced and a great headphone album.  If you don’t believe me, take a listen below to a track from this Brooklyn artist/musician.

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The Last Battle have a new album out called “Heart of the Land, Soul of the Sea” and this is exactly what I think of when I think of the UK folk scene.  Songs that feel personal and inspired, and songs that you will feel both connected to but still want to sing along to with the rest of the pub.  Take a listen.

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We also have the Jim Bryson & The Weakerthans track for “Constellation” from the upcoming “The Falcon Lake Incident”.  I am always attracted to a great Canadian combination and especially one that references a place I am familiar with (Falcon Lake).  This is not a surprise considering The Weakerthans are involved (proud Winnipeg indie outfit) and all.  The song is definitely going to be one of the slower tracks on the album, and it is simply a great listen.  Find out more at Kelp Records.  I also thought I would end this post on a great Canadian note!

~

There you have it, enjoy your Tuesday!

~Smansmith

“Healthy Hands”

Originally brought to me via the good folks at Herohill (thx East Coast!) and damn I am glad.  The newly released 7″ from Tasseomancy (formerly Ghost Bees) is a 2-track vinyl release that has both A & B sides currently sitting at best new music in my books.  Both songs are sufficiently mood enhancing, eerie and just plain bad ass.  “Healthy Hands” above features the sisters duo (Romi and Sari) doing their thing with the B side “The Darkness of Things” seeing assistance from “Mr. Timber Timbre” Taylor Kirk himself.  The addition of a solo Kirk on vocals and producing duties of both tracks has kicked it up a little – but as a fan of both bands, how could they do wrong together?

…did I already say this release has a bit of an atmosphere and that it is fantastic?  Highly recommended.  Purchase HERE.

More On This Album, MySpace

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Enjoy some La Blogotheque love as well!

Tasseomancy | A Take Away Show | Night from La Blogotheque on Vimeo.

Starting today is the new album from the now condensed named Ben & Bruno – “BB” who have a new album out on RC Legacy.  Ben and Bruno is essentially Peter Brant and he is a master of crafting quirky folk/fringe folk songs that find themselves both delicate and moving at the same time.  His “higher than average” vocal style is something that always draws me in, I am a sucker for an “interesting/unique” vocal style – and while it isn’t out there that much, it still is enough to separate it from others.

The new album is called “Marcescant” and is out now (available on white vinyl no less) and is a nice compliment to any Saturday listening party you may be having – lo-fi indie pop at its finest.

Click here to purchase, here to visit, below to listen:

“You Have No Love” (mp3)

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Next we have  something equally as mellow, but a different spin on style.  So to get into it, Wolfgang Schaefer is definitely more to the Americana side of things – one listen to that harmonica and you just know it.  This Milwakee resident plays the lonely guitar and sings with the true tired voice of the open plain troubadour.  Whether he is or not, it sounds great.  There is the stunning acoustics that perfectly match his vocals and you simply wonder why this guy isn’t a household name already.  Sometimes I just don’t get it – he creates the kind of music that you can both hear on a soundtrack on a “hip” television show, but still find a home in a down and out club playing for 8 people.  I have a track from his upcoming EP that should see a release this summer and will be a definite must buy!

*photo from MySpace photo album

Click here to visit, below to listen:

“Broken Hearts and Billy Clubs” (mp3)

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Next we have Hip Hatchett who is a more traditional acoustic folk artist – you could say he is a staple of the Slowcoustic style of folk music.  He has a new album over on BandCamp called “Men Who Share My Name” and it is extra conveniently priced at “$2.00 or more” – come on, you can’t beat that.  Hip Hatchet is actually the performing name of  Philippe Bronchtein who is a self proclaimed musician from the age of 3 hails from Vermont and his deep but soothing voice could be the blanket of “hushed” atmosphere of any fall day from the North East state.  I can’t say enough about how $2.00 will get you 10 tracks from this guy – use headphones as well, wander around with this as your soundtrack – perfect!

Click here (be sure to stop the player in the comments immediately) to visit, here to buy or below to listen:

“Hungry Wolves” (mp3)

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There you have another Saturday collection of great music – please swing by all the above artists sites and make a comment, become a friend or simply sit and listen.

~Smansmith

Stephen van Kampen released a new album this past March – as a fairly new Calgarian, I missed it.  I am dumb.

So this is less a “review” as it is just a heads up on an album that shows a lot of promise.  I say that because I have only been listening for a short while (remember, I am dumb?) but there is a bit for everyone who might frequent this blog.  You have some slow burners, lots of banjo and then some not so slow numbers to keep it interesting.  Remember, you may remember him from Beija Flor who have recently gone their separate ways, but go in fresh and don’t think of this as a “solo project of a band member” as much as it is simply Van Kampen’s new album.

The below 2 videos are good examples of what to expect from Sark’s album- the first being found from the good folks at Calgary Is Awesome and taken from the “Shot At The Dark” series.  It is kinda like Calgary’s version of Black Cab Sessions/La Blogotheque/other indie video hub and is great snippet into the workings of Van Kampen – it might be a bit hard to hear due to the street noise, but lean in as it will reward with banjo goodness.

SHOT AT THE DARK – Stephen Van Kampen from Shot at The Dark on Vimeo.
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This next video is for the track “The Red Eye” from his self titled album (I think kinda like the “lead off single” if there was one) and brings in a bit of “art-folk” if that is even a genre.  Again, good flexing of the banjo chops.

~~~

Upcoming shows in the Calgary area:

• 1 Jul 2010 / Aratta Opera Centre (part of Sled Island Festival!!)
• 8 Jul 2010 / Hillhurst Sunnyside Community Association
• 14 Aug 2010 / CJSW Summer Concert Series

There are some links below to visit or purchase.  If you are local and wanted to keep it local, you can always purchase (and stream 2 tracks) over at Kerf Music HERE.

Find and purchase more Savk:

~Smansmith

I have been meaning to post on Arborea (well more than last time) and it keeps getting away from me.  I don’t know why as they would have been one of my top choices to see at SXSW this year and they play tonight!!  They are playing at 9pm at St. David’s Church/Bethel Hall and you should try and make it if you can.

Arborea are Shanti and Buck (both a duo in music and life) and they bring you great traditional folk with a tinge of fringe if you know what I mean.  They are a bit ambient and masters of creating atmospheric psychedelic acoustic music.  There last album was re-mastered (House of Sticks) and is highly recommended for something that is haunting, beautiful and can make you stop in your tracks.  Take a listen to a couple of tracks to get an idea:

“Dance, Sing, Fight”
“River and Rapids”
Both remastered for the “House of Sticks” album

“Son Of The Moon, Daughter Of The Sun” – Arborea track from “Leaves of Life” compilation (Buck actually curated this for the relief programs at the UN World Food Program and the full compilation included Alela Diane, Devendra Banhard, Marissa Nadler among them!).  Find it over on Darla Records HERE.

So basically, do your best to get out there and see them – you will not be disappointed!

Bonus video:

Wow!

Find more Arborea:

~Smansmith

p.s. bonus:  find their interview for SXSW 2010 with AOL by clicking HERE.

Something I like is getting a recommendation for something and then realize that it has caught you off guard and kicked you in the teeth.  Olds Sleeper did just that – Fringe country at its best.

Recommended from one of my Last.fm group members and as they tend to know what I like due to me shoving my musical taste down their throat as much as possible.  So with that I knew it had to have some merit.  What the “catches me off guard” refers to is when you find someone who you might think is “only” a singer songwriter that seems a bit gruff country turns out to be lo-fi, experimental and a small pinch of noise troubadour.  Not the type of artist that will be making an appearance on the next Gossip Girl, but that is just another reason to dig your teeth into it.  It’s dirty, got guts, dusty jeans and includes a heart of gold on the inside – you just know it.

While he has 3 full albums to download for free on his website (blogger icon below), it may take you 3 months to actually digest them – they are thick, cryptic, angry, sad and all ready for the open road.  The Catching Night Before Dawn might be more for the acoustic songwriter crowd, the Horseheads may be more for the dirty country folks and I am just listening to Rise and Rust now!  If you have the time to, listen, if you don’t, then stop and treat yourself to an escape with this old sleeper.  Oh, and don’t get scared if it goes sideways for a bit, it always rights itself and that is a bit of the charm of Olds Sleeper!

“I Knew A Mountain (Remix)”
“So Much”
~Taken from Catching Night Before Dawn

Cocaine, Pistols, Tequila”
“Devil by the Trees”
~Taken from Horseheads

Visit Olds Sleeper:

~Smansmith

Artist/Music submissions come fast and furious at times and it is hard to keep up being the solo person around Slowcoustic HQ.  Why even mention this?  Because it’s my blog damnit!  No just kidding – I am wanting to let you all know about a project that showed up in the ol’ inbox a few weeks back that I thought you might actually want to listen to.  I always enjoy getting artist submissions – they just don’t always match up to what I have going on around here…but that is a whole different story.  It also can be hard just keeping up with all the music!  Oh, it’s hard for a pimp…

Let’s dig into a project and get you listening to (hopefully) new music that you will love and hold over the heads of your friends because you have it and they don’t.  {I think I am a bit punchy today, no?}

~~~

We Are The Willows (Amble Down Records)

This one is well worth a listen, believe me (the American version of me, Lee @ Knoxroad, had a mention as well).  There is a free EP “A Family. A Tree. EP” and an upcoming full length on November 24th entitled “A Collection Of Sounds And Something Like The Plague” that have been playing quite regularly around here.  Anyone who has been around these parts for a while know that I can have a bit of a thing for unique and interesting vocals.  Lets be honest, for a pseudo folk singer songwriter the vocals can make and break you.  Many have been singled out for having what I believe Peter Miller has, the distinct ability to have a voice and delivery that will make you love it or hate it.  If you are worth your salt in my books, you will love it.  If you have read this far and haven’t listened yet, press play on the YouTube video below now and then read on.

You will find obvious similarities to the late Jeff Hanson (RIP) and Joel Thibodeau of Death Vessel – Miller could be the folk version of another favourite, Windmill, to if I had to say…  It can be unnerving, but the combination of the great acoustic/ambient/electro backing with perfect combination of true singer songwriter and performance art brings the full bloom of this experience.  I find it intoxicating at times, it can be one of the most delicate things you can listen to and even strangely heartbreaking (songs like “Karate” from the EP and “A Funeral Dressed As A Birthday” & “Norwalk, Iowa” from the upcoming LP).

There can be a bit of over ambient mixed in for the straight laced crowd, as Miller can provide additional audio layers with an impression of the world around us…you could say.  This is created by We Are The Willows recording most of the album with his laptop & microphone while touring his native Minneapolis to create the album but I still believe it works.   Don’t get me wrong, it can get away from him a little bit at times, but overall he reigns it in to keep it from going to over the top art house noise pop on us.   Take a bit of a glimpse into the world of WATW below;

“Karate”
“Isabel’s Song”
from A Family. A Tree. EP

“A Funeral Dressed As A Birthday”
from A Collection of Sounds And Something Like The Plague

You can stream the whole upcoming album at both Amble Down Records and the We Are The Willows Myspace page.  You can also pick up the entire “A Family. A Tree. EP” at both for a free/donation download.  If you needed to listen now, you can pre-order the album and get the download immediately – that seems like something to get your weekend started correctly, doesn’t it?

Visit/Purchase We Are The Willows:

Bonus Video:

~Smansmith

I have been listening to a lot of music, but not posting as much as I should.  I thought I would give you a quick song of the day post to fend of the daily mp3 crowd and the die hard regulars (love you guys!).  Hopefully I can get some decent coverage of some really great albums soon!  Speaking of which….see below.

So Matt Dill is from one of my favourite new(er) record labels that I have become quite fond of.  Orchid Collective has a stable of great talent on the more folk-indie-ambient variety.  While not the label for everyone, everyone should have something from them.  One more of those many options is Matt Dill.

Matt Dill’s new album is a collection of slowcore and art-house ambient tracks loosely threaded together to create more of an experience than a standard album.   As I mentioned with some Orchid artists projects there are parts that are quite stunning and also times of musical experimentation.  So if you are looking for something that you can dig your teeth into but still have the option of more than a few straight forward folky jams – this is a great option for you.  I can say it is getting maximum listening around here.  This continues to prove that the the indie talent quotient at Orchid Collective is extremely deep.

“Mountain Side” from Matt Dill – from 2009′s “Lila Rasa” album.  PURCHASE and VISIT, watch below:

Mountain Side -Matt Dill from Zac Eubank on Vimeo.

~Smansmith

Maybe it is the fact that The Singleman Affair’s sound (or aura you could say) straddles that line between 60s psych folk and modern day spacey folk masterpieces, it quite easily comes out feeling like it just might be the freshest thing you have heard in a while.  Always a bit dark and the kind of music that really hits the spot around these parts.

“Bonus #2″ below is a great example of the sound that TSA is know for and is a spectacular live track – its a killer and highly recommended.  Enjoy it all.

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The Singleman Affair
“Leaving a Mark” (mp3)
“Baby You’ve Been on My Mind” (bonus mp3)

from “Let’s Kill the Summer”
(Cardboard Sangria Records)

More On This Album

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Well worth a purchase if you got the time.  Pick it up HERE.  Visit on MySpace and his Website.

Bonus #1:  Check out a video of “Leaving a Mark” as well!

~~

Bonus #2: Live tour track from 2007!
The Singleman Affair
“If I Only Fell In Love When I Was Young” (mp3)
from “2007 Tour CD”
(Cardboard Sangria Records)

More On This Album

Recommendations, recommendations.  Bloggers have many.  Most are pretty decent recommendations and for the most part we (hopefully) know what we are talking about.  As I often talk out of my ass, take what I say with a grain of salt – I obsess on bands or albums or songs, so when I am listening – I recommend as it is the best thing and only thing I can hear at that moment.  Well something is about to be around more and it does come recommended from me.  Long rambling opening short – the Vancouver duo Lightning Dust (representing “East Van” to those in the know).  I like Lightning Dust…a lot.

The new album has more production value than their debut self titled album from 2007, but it is often a shaky ground when you incorporate additional elements into something that is soo clearly already working.  I have to admit that I did sigh audibly after my first listen.  There is still the echoing, haunting aura that Amber Webber and Joshua Wells bring to you, the listener.  This time there is just a bit more outward instead of inward aura, ya know?  A perfect example of this would be the track “Take It Home” – you have strings, bass lines, high hats – yes, high hats – and it comes out great.  They don’t present like they are trying too hard or that someone has come into the studio and started molding them to something else.  Okay, enough about the evolution of band sound and the fact that it progresses and grows!

The band is known for a bit of performance value in the sound – it is like they could fashion a very comfortable lifestyle by sound tracking pulp horror flicks.  But the pulp horror flick that gets known more for it’s soundtrack then its box office appeal, imho.  They do not disappoint with “Infinite Light” – and no matter how hard I try, I want to say it is a little 70′s retro keyboard infused chamber pop.  As much as that puts into your head about how they actually sound, take a listen to the below track to hear the sounds I am stumbling to describe.

“Never Seen” – Lightning Dust – from 2009′s “Infinite Light”

Now, lets move along to a cryptic psychedelic theatre tune – complete with those keyboards.  The track feels as if it is about to take off, but pulls back each time.  Definitely a more upbeat tune meant to get you the hell out of your seat.  Take a spin.

“I knew” – Lightning Dust – from 2009′s “Infinite Light”

Of the two tracks above, I lean toward “Never Seen” as I do run a blog called Slowcoustic and it is the more moody track…. There are more stand out tracks such as “Dreamer” that bring a pounding string section and “Honest Man” that enjoys a duet of Webber and Wells that can only be described as “Broadway Folk as seen by Pink Floyd’s ‘TheWall’…” – it is spectacular!  Overall it is a bit of a concept album approach and it is definitely meant for the stage – but my headphones will definitely do for now.  Make sure you pick up a copy this August (I believe it is the 4th) or think about catching them on tour with the always great Cave Singers this September (check dates here)

Visit Lightning Dust on Jagjaguwar, MySpace or their Website.
Do the actual Pre-Ordering RIGHT HERE.

~Smansmith

]]> http://slowcoustic.com/2009/07/28/get-your-pre-order-on-lightning-dusts-infinite-light/feed/ 1 http://slowcoustic.com/2009/07/19/akronfamily-another-reason-to-go-to-the-calgary-folk-fest/ http://slowcoustic.com/2009/07/19/akronfamily-another-reason-to-go-to-the-calgary-folk-fest/#comments Sun, 19 Jul 2009 17:46:22 +0000 slowcoustic http://slowcoustic.com/?p=2420

So Akron Family are on tour.  They are on tour and stopping at the Calgary Folk Fest for a couple of shows.  I know I am thinking of hitting up the Twilight stage on Saturday to see about the show (it lists them last, so I assume a 8:00pm start??).  Regardless, I have been listening to Akron/Family ever since their self titled album came out in 2005 on Young God Records – kicked my ass – soo good.  They have had a few albums since, some better than others (not a huge fan of Meek Warrior) but the newest is getting back on track and they are coming into form.  They also don’t tour too much to Calgary, so people, get out there – hit Prince’s Island park and show some love for A/F.  Tickets for Calgary Folk Fest HERE.

Additional dates for those of you who don’t happen to be in Calgary next week:

7/22/09 Cleveland, OH – Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
7/23/09 Detroit Lakes, MN – 10,000 Lakes Festival 20097/24/09 Chicago, IL – Bottom Lounge
7/25/09 Calgary, AB – Calgary Folk Festival
7/26/09 Calgary, AB – Calgary Folk Festival
7/29/09 Steamboat Springs, CO – Ghost Ranch Saloon
7/30/09 Vail, CO – The Sandbar
7/31/09 Denver, CO – Bluebird Theater
8/02/09 Jersey City, NJ – All Points West Music & Arts Festival
8/09/09 New York, NY – Other Music – Free In-store – 7 PM
8/11/09 Washington, DC – Rock & Roll Hotel
8/12/09 Carrboro, NC – Cat’s Cradle
8/13/09 Atlanta, GA – E.A.R.L.
8/14/09 Birmingham, AL – Bottletree
8/15/09 Asheville, NC – Transfigurations at Grey Eagle Tavern & Music Hall
8/24/09 Santa Monica, CA – Morning Becomes Eclectic (89.9FM KCRW)
8/28/09 San Francisco, CA – Outside Lands Music Festival w/ John Vanderslice
8/29/09 Los Angeles, CA – El Ray Theatre
9/07/09 Seattle, WA – Bumbershoot Festival
9/08/09 Portland, OR – Bagdad Theatre
9/10/09 Baltimore, MD – Talking Head Club
9/11/09 Philadelphia, PA – Johnny Brenda’s
9/12/09 Monticello, NY – ATP NY – Kutshers Country Club w/ Animal Collective, Panda Bear and Atlas Sound
9/14/09 Hudson, NY – Jason’s Upstairs  w/ Jeffrey Lewis, Slaraffenland
9/15/09 Williamsport, PA – Site: B  w/ Jeffrey Lewis, Slaraffenland, Doc Mach and the Field Surgeons
9/16/09 Ithaca, NY – Castaways  w/ Jeffrey Lewis, Slaraffenland
9/17/09 Buffalo, NY – Mohawk Place  w/ Jeffrey Lewis, Slaraffenland
9/18/09 London, ON, Canada – LOLA Festival
9/19/09 Detroit, MI – Magic Stick  w/ Jeffrey Lewis, Slaraffenland
9/20/09 Louisville, KY – 21C Museum Atrium Gallery w/ Jeffrey Lewis, Slaraffenland

Check a video from earlier this year as a preview;

Fiume Night 09 _ Akron Family _ williamsburgh, march 2009

Also find the lead off track “River” from “Set ‘em Wild, Set ‘em Free” below.

River (MP3) – Akron/Family – from 2009′s “Set ‘Em Wild, Set ‘Em Free”

Visit Akron/Family over on Dead Oceans HERE.

~Smansmith

So I know it was available, I know it was getting some pretty good press from fellow bloggers.  I just didn’t immediately take the “real listen”.  I don’t know why.  I might have be the deluge of music the last few months, finding another couple of releases that took over my listening, work or general malaise…I am sure it all contributed.  Well, I am listening now, and I have to say I am glad I got my ass in gear!

So if you are familiar with The Antlers (of which most are already, again I know I am late on this album) it is/was basically a project of Peter Silberman that has since grown in members/contributors in the last couple of years.  Known for a style of folk that creeps close to “freak folk”, but pulls back on the reins and keeps it hovering in an ambient-psych-fringe style (is this even a real description??).  The stuff that isn’t always immediately catchy and some listeners take a pass upon first listen, which is unfortunate for them.  There is beauty in them there songs.  A mellow listen for the most part, it flows and draws you in – but not is a hazy way, you are involved with it because it is so interesting and involved to the trained ear.  The album has basically come out of plain sight for me and is now nestling in my favourites for the year so far.  The tracks that really catch me are “Shiva”, “Atrophy” and “Kettering” and all are as epic as they are haunting.  Have a listen to some approved media to get an idea, but pick up the album for a full listen of the previously mentioned three tracks.

“Two” – The Antlers
“Bear” – The Antlers

“Gets me back on board” is mentioned as I always revert to the 2006 album “Uprooted” because it has those same elements described above and is simply a great album.  From the more approachable “Nashua” to the absolute stunning “Uprooted”, this album is a must and if you are new to The Antlers – pick it up here (iTunes) or here (CD Baby).  Take a listen below.

“Uprooted” – The Antlers (highly recommended)
“It Seem Easy” – The Antlers
“Keys” – The Antlers

Visit The Antlers on their MySpace page for a few more downloads.  Also pick up the new album (and a shirt maybe???) at their online store HERE.

~Smansmith

Just a little bit of Dame Satan’s ambient psych folk for your Wednesday.  This is what happens when someone blends 60s acid with an ambient production.  Sometimes too sparse to describe, sometimes way too trippy to think you actually understand it, but always worth a listen (or two).

The band and new album dissected: “It contains Fine Folk Traditions, Space Blankets, Noisy Blessings, and a Few History Lessons. All Messages and Moods within were cooked up by Human Voices, Words arranged in Meaningful Congress, Acoustic and Electric Instruments, Effects…”

And check the video for my pick for best track on the album “Ghost Dance”.

Dame Satan
“Ghost Dance” (mp3)
“Country Thief” (mp3)
“Dawn and Delta” (mp3)
from “Beaches and Bridges”
(Origami Music)

More On This Album

Visit on their Website and MySpace for more info from this San Francisco troupe – or even pick up a copy over at the Ghost Mansion Store HERE.

~Smansmith

Well friends it was but merely days – or a couple of posts ago that I posted on Scott Matthew!  I am getting into the new album from Mr. Matthew and despite what some call “overwrought” I call pretty darn good (I’m lookin’ at you Morgan – HA!).  I know you can get overwhelmed with some Scott Matthew stuff, but if you are in the mood for it, it’s magnificent.

Since the quick post of the new video for “White Horse”, I heard from the Matthew’s people and they kindly offered up a couple of downloads – I am more than happy to oblige!

The two tracks are from different albums, starting with his self titled release and the track “Abandoned” – this is a classic track and gives you a window into his sound.  You get the piano, cello, gentle strumming of the acoustic guitar alongside his pained delivery, pained in a good way delivery that is.

“Abandoned“ – Scott Matthew – *purchase “Scott Matthew” LP*

The second track is a live version of the song “For Dick” from the new album (which actually is very similar to the album version with a bit of audience appreciation as book ends).  This track is similar to Abandoned, but enjoys a bit more gravitas like the “White Horse” track from the video in the previous post.  Stunning if you like this sort of thing.

“For Dick (live)“ – Scott Matthew – *purchase ”There Is An Ocean That Divides And With My Longing I Can Charge It With A Voltage Thats So Violent To Cross It Could Mean Death”*

Visit Scott Matthew on his Website and MySpace

~Smansmith

Elephant Micah and Vollmer share more than the label and a penchant for ethereal folk/experimental noise: they both were responsible for Elephant Micah’s stellar “Exiled Magicians” – EM with the actual music creation and Vollmer assisting in the recording.  This alone moves Vollmer into my good books.  While I don’t pretend to know Joe O’Connell (Elephant Micah) and Justin Vollmer (Vollmer), they seem made for each other, whether they be old college roommates, childhood friends or simply two musicians who connected over the love of experimenting with sound.

Take a sample of both artists below, with Elephant Micah’s “New Nature” from last year’s Exiled Magicians and “Samson” from Vollmer’s 12″ Compilation (which combines 3 previous EPs in one release) which is newly re-released this past April 2009.  Tell your friends.

“New Nature” from Elephant Micah – (Visit) – *Purchase*

~~

“Samsons” from Vollmer – (Visit) – *Purchase*

~~

Visit Third Uncle Records at their Website and MySpace Page.

~Smansmith

~Smansmith

p.s.  Visit Laundromatinee for an alternate live version HERE – and pick up a few free downloads of the session.  Soo good.

So we all know I am a ridiculous fan of Joe O’Connell’s “Elephant Micah” recording persona.  I honestly have to say that his most recent full album release “Exiled Magicians” is going to be a top album for the decade for me – see for yourself by visiting Third Uncle Records to pick up a copy.  Swing by my post HERE for a stream of “Imperial Blues” from the album – just click “play in pop up” – that track stops me in my tracks each time I hear it.

If you don’t care about hushed folk, solo acoustic, walks just after dusk and the hiss of a 1963 radio then turn around right now and quickly scuffle off.  If you are interested (and you should be), give a listen and ensure you listen in the right frame of mind.  If you just finished your Vitamin B infused smoothie, come back later.   If you just closed a great deal and you are presenting your good fortune to the boss, come back later.  If you are at peace with the day, you are ready to sit back, and really enjoy a hazy fuzz folk tune – stop, stay and listen and find a home with Elephant Micah.

So I guess you have realized it isn’t really a “discovery”, but I did find some new music that is readily available on his website and it needs to be listened to.  So the below songs are all available on his “newly revamped” website (wear sunglasses prior to clicking the link) – be sure to visit for many more great examples of why I enjoy his sound soo much.  You gotta love an artist who is willing to put full albums up for free download (yes, I said full album downloads) – this man is about the music.  Almost zen in his approach to sharing his work – through almost any means necessary, as he is noted for being quite open about his positive feelings towards file sharing.  Remember though – be a good guy, donate via link on his site so we can continue to have the option of listening to more and more EM.

Update on some tour dates for Elephant Micah in case you are around (keep an eye on his site for the “?” locations), you will find Dark Dark Dark on the bill as well!

4/1/09 EUGENE, OR at “?”
4/2/09 PORTLAND, OR at The Romansion
4/3/09 OLYMPIA, WA at “?”

~Smansmith

~~

First off Audrye Sessions new Self Titled CD showed up in the post (wow, I do miss physical media sometimes) and I have been giving it some airtime and so far, so good.  I find they seem to be a hybrid indie rock band that is heading to a non-traditional rock band destination.  You know how Radiohead used to be a “rock” band?  Well not that they are heading down that path, but you get my drift.

Back story:

Their self-titled debut on Black Seal — available early 2009— is packed with polished, propulsive rock songs and gentle, stripped-down tunes with the kind of ear-grabbing melodies that instantly hard-wire themselves into your brain. Recorded with Andrew Scheps (U2, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Johnny Cash) and Matt Radosevich (The Hives, Taking Back Sunday), the album is anchored by Ryan Karazija’s remarkable voice, which is whisper vulnerable one minute, roiling with emotion the next and easily slips into a smooth falsetto.

Visit them on their MySpace page and check out the tour dates with Manchester Orchestra (!!).

~~

Secondly I have something a little unique – Pree.  As far as I know, not a Neutral Milk Hotel reference (although I suspect their MySpace page address of some tomfoolery), but a great alt-folk outfit from Washington (East Coast, not West).  This one might have you lost in the vocals of May Tabol, but let them beat you down and tenderize you – for if you will, you will awaken to its utter beauty.  They have a new 5 track EP called “A Chopping Block” that is dropping on March 9th.

Description:

Pree’s musical prowess evokes seductive and shadowy moods that call to mind Regina Spektor’s imaginative narratives as well as Modest Mouse frontman Isaac Brock’s rhythmic vocal stylings– mixing haunting folk elements, unmistakable vocals, and a remarkable command of words to elicit a fare as delicate as it is powerful.

Visit them on their Kora Records page and MySpace.

*BONUS Video*

AON Sessions: Pree, “In the Parlor” from All Our Noise on Vimeo.

~Smansmith

]]> http://slowcoustic.com/2009/02/26/inbox-delights-audrye-sessions-pree/feed/ 1 4:53 Two great treats in my inbox (and actual mail in the case of Audrye Sessions) to pass onto you the fantastic, well groomed, most hansome ... Two great treats in my inbox (and actual mail in the case of Audrye Sessions) to pass onto you the fantastic, well groomed, most hansome blog readers around.  Shall we dig in...see below: ~~ First off Audrye Sessions new Self Titled CD showed up in the post (wow, I do miss physical media sometimes) and I have been giving it some airtime and so far, so good.  I find they seem to be a hybrid indie rock band that is heading to a non-traditional rock band destination.  You know how Radiohead used to be a "rock" band?  Well not that they are heading down that path, but you get my drift. Back story: Their self-titled debut on Black Seal — available early 2009— is packed with polished, propulsive rock songs and gentle, stripped-down tunes with the kind of ear-grabbing melodies that instantly hard-wire themselves into your brain. Recorded with Andrew Scheps (U2, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Johnny Cash) and Matt Radosevich (The Hives, Taking Back Sunday), the album is anchored by Ryan Karazija's remarkable voice, which is whisper vulnerable one minute, roiling with emotion the next and easily slips into a smooth falsetto. Visit them on their MySpace page and check out the tour dates with Manchester Orchestra (!!). ~~ Secondly I have something a little unique - Pree.  As far as I know, not a Neutral Milk Hotel reference (although I suspect their MySpace page address of some tomfoolery), but a great alt-folk outfit from Washington (East Coast, not West).  This one might have you lost in the vocals of May Tabol, but let them beat you down and tenderize you - for if you will, you will awaken to its utter beauty.  They have a new 5 track EP called "A Chopping Block" that is dropping on March 9th. Description: Pree's musical prowess evokes seductive and shadowy moods that call to mind Regina Spektor's imaginative narratives as well as Modest Mouse frontman Isaac Brock's rhythmic vocal stylings-- mixing haunting folk elements, unmistakable vocals, and a remarkable command of words to elicit a fare as delicate as it is powerful. Visit them on their Kora Records page and MySpace. *BONUS Video* AON Sessions: Pree, "In the Parlor" from All Our Noise on Vimeo. ~Smansmith Folk, Freak Folk, indie, Indie Rock, New Album, Video no yes http://slowcoustic.com/2009/02/18/only-great-band-names-need-apply/ http://slowcoustic.com/2009/02/18/only-great-band-names-need-apply/#comments Wed, 18 Feb 2009 15:25:33 +0000 slowcoustic http://slowcoustic.com/?p=1459

Standing out in a crowd, to get noticed, sticking out in the “sea of same”.  These days you need a bit of luck or cunning to get noticed.  Interesting band names is one way.  It is one way, but it can be a slippery slope when deciding to label yourself and your music with something that might have nothing to do with the general populace or possibly even your target market.

That being said, often you find a band because of the band name and realize that they are in fact pretty good.  Whether a unique name is created on purpose or if the name itself has purpose – it can work.  For some, it is simply novelty and for some it is a foot in the door.  I have included two bands below that caught my eye due to their band name alone.  I actually listened and it worked out…they are both a good listen and unique sounding, not unlike the reason why I found them in the first place – an interesting band name.

Drunken Barn Dance (or Scott Sellwood) is a combination of freak folk, indie singer songwriter and barn burning hoe down (no pun intended) – eclectic to say the least and definitely worth a listen.  You have both up and down tempo with “Seagulls” (down tempo) and “The Last Desperate Stand…” (up tempo).  A lo-fi winner, and now that I listen more and more, the name may actually be a description of the sound itself.

Drunken Barn Dance

“Seagulls (No Fantasies) (Fading Bones)” (mp3)
“The Last Desperate Stand of the Last Fair Man” (mp3)
from “Drunken Barn Dance”
(Quite Scientific Records)

More On This Album

~~

More Animals Of The Arctic is more shoegazey and a bit epic in sound.  You get a fuller, complete atmosphere with MAOTA – great use of piano, layering sounds – think Sigur Rós if they were English and made music that didn’t require Icelandic rocks and petrified wood to create.  A post rock slowcore experience, but with harmonica!

More Animals Of The Arctic

“John The Baptist” (mp3)
“Peacock Dream” (mp3)
from “An Appendix Of Whaling Terms”
(Standard Recording Company)

More On This Album

~Smansmith

The song is taken from Timber Timbre’s self titled 2009 release.  I have to say that some of the best music so far this year is, yes I will say it, Canadian in nature.  Taylor Kirk is the man behind the band and I have to admit the below video and rip is a bit more ominous that the album version, but it is all that much better for it.  Kudos to Scott Cameron and the Camera Music Series over on AUX.tv for the live sessions he records – I mean Brian Borcherdt, Great Lake Swimmers, Ohbijou, The Wooden Sky and now Timber Timbre!  Check it below:

Check out Timber Timbre on his Label site and MySpace.

~Smansmith

While I admit Windmill’s album “Puddle City Racing Lights” was a sleeper hit for me in 2007/2008, it is not necessarily something that gets a lot of play around the blog.  It is definitely slow, mellow and at times breathtakingly gorgeous – some just find it a bit “odd”.  Well I like “odd” and the album was fairly well received, but I think it deserved more.  Take a listen to a few tracks below, and although I don’t have the permissions for my favourite tracks “Tilting Trains” and “Fashion House”, these two are pretty damn good too.

Windmill
“Tokyo Moon” (mp3)
“Fluorescent Lights” (mp3)
from “Puddle City Racing Lights”
(Friendly Fire Recordings)

More On This Album

~~

I also have something new from “Here We Go Magic”, and while I am familiar with the man behind the HWGM (Luke Temple), I must say this is a new avenue for him.  The just released self titled album from Here We Go Magic is not what I am used to from Temple – all I can say is it is no “Snowbeast” or “Hold a Match for a Gasoline World”, but still interesting.  Description of the album from IODA:

Developed over a two-month period of stream-of-consciousness recording in Greenpoint, Brooklyn, Luke’s self-titled debut under his new moniker Here We Go Magic is a remarkable departure from his signature singer-songwriter material. Luke recorded the album at home using analog synths, a cassette 4-track, and his trusty SM-57 mic, coloring the sound with warmth and creating textures you want to wrap yourself in.

Here We Go Magic
“Fangela” (mp3)
from “Here We Go Magic
(Western Vinyl)

More On This Album

~Smansmith

Woodpigeon
“Knock Knock” (mp3)

from “Treasury Library Canada c/w Houndstooth Europa”
(Boompa Records)

Buy at iTunes Music Store
More On This Album

A quick look at some promo speak for the newly released “Treasury Library Canada c/w Houndstooth Europa” brings the band either into more focus, or possibly just gets you intrigued:

Intimate and endearing, exquisite and ornate, Treasury Library Canada is filled with bells, whistles and handclaps. Girlish voices become instruments, while Mark’s lonely choirboy vocals — impossibly, lodged in a lumberjack-ish bear of a man — sound uncannily like they’re being sung directly into your ear. You can almost feel his minty breath.

The new album is a double disc affair that includes a second disc “Houndstooth Europa” in conjunction with their tour starting this weekend in Vancouver then it is “across the pond” for these Canucks.  If you can get your hands on the double disc in Europe, you better be quick, there will only be 500 copies of “Houndstooth Europa” included in the pressings.  I am sure we all know that Disc One “Treasury Library Canada” was released previously and comes highly recommended.

Check out the tour dates below and join them in a rousing sing-a-long if you are in the area.

07 February 2009 PERFORMANCE WORKS Vancouver, BC
15 February 2009 BOTANIQUE-ROTUNDE Brussels, Belgium
16 February 2009 PONT EPHEMERE Paris, France
17 February 2009 PARADISO Amsterdam, Nlands
18 February 2009 PRINZENBAR Hamburg, Germany
19 February 2009 SCHOKOLADEN Berlin, Germany
21 February 2009 WESTGARTH SC Middlesbrough, UK
22 February 2009 THE CAPTAIN’S REST Glasgow, Scotland
23 February 2009 THE END Newcastle, UK
24 February 2009 THE DEAF INSTITUTE Manchester, UK
25 February 2009 ICA London, UK
26 February 2009 THE AUDIO Brighton, UK

You have your recommendation, now hit the streets and spread the word.

~Smansmith

p.s.  There are more “BONUS” tracks from the free eMusic EP.  Go HERE to get them.

Hopefully enjoying these three artists at the same concert at the Pink Mailbox in Santa Barbara, CA.  I believe it was a Deer Tick concert, but with this much talent, who knows.

{mp3} Breathe Owl Breathe – “Playing Dead”

{mp3} Ben and Bruno – “Like A Firefly”

{mp3} Deer Tick – “Santaria”

Yes there were more songs played, a few more artists on the bill, but I picked 3 of my favourite songs from the concert available from the Archive.org site.  I am always able to find a great tune there, I mean sometimes you have to dig for a good quality recording, but you can find stuff that you might never been able to purchase!

Bonus track also from Archive.org, and also because I love BoB’s stuff (Ghost Glacier is an incredible EP & full album) and hope to get more of their stuff on the ol’ Slowcoustic Blog soon:

{mp3} Breathe Owl Breathe – “Home” – live at Crazy Wisdom Tea Room (April 22nd, 2005)

Visit:  Ben and Bruno, Breathe Owl Breathe, Deer Tick.

~Smansmith

Some tracks that have caught my ear over the last bit.  I don’t think that they necessarily are all that connected – hell, some of these bands might even have absolutely nothing in common at all.  Well, nothing in common other than some Canadian dude putting them on his blog and calling it a “Mixlist”.  But that is the point of a mixed list, now isn’t it?

• Arrows

“She Wore A Cabernet Smile” (mp3)
from “Modern Art & Politics”
(Hobbledehoy Record Co)

More On This Album

• The Apples in Stereo

“Go” (mp3)
from “The Discovery of a World Inside the Moone”
(The Apples in stereo)

More On This Album

• Matt & Kim

“No More Long Years” (mp3)
from “Self Titled”
(iheartcomix)

More On This Album

• Blackout Beach

“Cloud of Evil” (mp3)
from “Skin of Evil”
(Soft Abuse)

More On This Album

• Slaraffenland

“Show Me the Way” (mp3)
from “Private Cinema”
(Rumraket)

More On This Album

• The Coast

“The Lines Are Cut” (mp3)
from “The Coast”
(Aporia Records)

More On This Album

• Deer Tick

“Long Time” (mp3)
from “War Elephant”
(Partisan Records)

More On This Album

• Mean Sea Level

“Nothing Less” (mp3)
from “Mean Sea Level”
(Cardboard Sangria Records)

More On This Album

~~

Go on and consume, you know you want to.

~Smansmith

Brand new and available on all sides of “The Pond” is a unique compilation that has just been unveiled to the world via the Last.fm music community.  It is not only a great idea, distribution method and free (currently), it is simply an amazing collection of songs, period.

Description from creators & promoters:

Crumby Lovers: A New Weird UK Sampler is an online compilation offering up a peculiarly British response to the new weird america phenomenon. It also represents an exciting new chapter in the ‘social music revolution’ kick-started here at last.fm. All the tracks on the album are, for a limited time only, free to download exclusively here at last.fm.

While I am familiar with the “New Weird” concept, it is more and more becoming the norm in many music circles.  What was once “avant garde” or even “ahead of it’s time” in relation to independent music is simply becoming independent music (and in turn, just music).  I like this trend, as I tend to like the slightly off the beaten track genre.  While it can be described as lo-fi, indie, singer-songwriter and even Anglo-Americana, you can trust it is a warm yet sober journey through the current(s) of today’s congested musical seas.  It could possibly be considered the music of today with tomorrow’s thinking when it comes to promotion and distribution.  I guess it may still be ahead of it’s time…

More from the release notes:

Characterized by honest, stripped-down song writing the album includes ten quirkily accessible compositions from:
Thom Piddock from York, Nottingham’s The Heaving Seas, London based Sarah Lain and Klak Tik, Edinburgh’s Eagleowl and Mount Analogue from Glasgow, Birmingham’s Tom Peel, Norfolk based Jack Mountain, Ellie Walker from Cambridge and the reclusive Anton Rothschild from somewhere on in the South West peninsula…

I have been listening for a few days now and I am very impressed with the quality of music that is included in the compilation.  While all artists and tracks being unique, they are threaded together with not only how they were compiled, but how they flow between each other.  They say the art of the “mixtape” is at an end, but I beg to disagree.

While I have heard and listened to a few of these great artists previously (Eagleowl, Mount Analogue and Tom Peel), I have included three tracks that I had not heard prior and really are perfect examples of what this sound is about:

• Anton Rothschild’s “I Give In” – This Dainty Records artist brings a track that at it’s heart, an acoustic track with piano accents, peppered with Anton’s fragile voice.  You feel like the song is tragic, but is doing it’s best to keep it’s head up (and possibly above water).
• The Heaving Seas’ “Portland Street” – This is a lo-fi gem.  The classic strumming, gritty and intimate vocal recording quenches your “bedroom folk” thirst.  It is as if its a literal reflection of a rainy day Portland as seen by anyone, anywhere.
• Sarah Lain’s “Floating” – This song is ethereal and stunning.  Sometimes you just know that the voice is meant for literally floating over melancholy.  This one is a highlight of the album for me and IFF Transponder has a real talent on their hands.

Please consider visiting and joining the new Last.fm group “New Weird UK“, joining and picking up the rest of the tracks for the release.  While there, do not forget to check each artist for more music – listen to it, share it and plain and simply enjoy the great sounds of New Weird UK.

~Smansmith

]]> http://slowcoustic.com/2009/02/02/crumby-lovers-a-new-weird-uk-sampler/feed/ 3 5:54 Brand new and available on all sides of "The Pond" is a unique compilation that has just been unveiled to the world via the Last.fm ... Brand new and available on all sides of "The Pond" is a unique compilation that has just been unveiled to the world via the Last.fm music community.  It is not only a great idea, distribution method and free (currently), it is simply an amazing collection of songs, period. Description from creators & promoters: Crumby Lovers: A New Weird UK Sampler is an online compilation offering up a peculiarly British response to the new weird america phenomenon. It also represents an exciting new chapter in the ‘social music revolution’ kick-started here at last.fm. All the tracks on the album are, for a limited time only, free to download exclusively here at last.fm. While I am familiar with the "New Weird" concept, it is more and more becoming the norm in many music circles.  What was once "avant garde" or even "ahead of it's time" in relation to independent music is simply becoming independent music (and in turn, just music).  I like this trend, as I tend to like the slightly off the beaten track genre.  While it can be described as lo-fi, indie, singer-songwriter and even Anglo-Americana, you can trust it is a warm yet sober journey through the current(s) of today's congested musical seas.  It could possibly be considered the music of today with tomorrow's thinking when it comes to promotion and distribution.  I guess it may still be ahead of it's time... More from the release notes: Characterized by honest, stripped-down song writing the album includes ten quirkily accessible compositions from: Thom Piddock from York, Nottingham’s The Heaving Seas, London based Sarah Lain and Klak Tik, Edinburgh’s Eagleowl and Mount Analogue from Glasgow, Birmingham’s Tom Peel, Norfolk based Jack Mountain, Ellie Walker from Cambridge and the reclusive Anton Rothschild from somewhere on in the South West peninsula… I have been listening for a few days now and I am very impressed with the quality of music that is included in the compilation.  While all artists and tracks being unique, they are threaded together with not only how they were compiled, but how they flow between each other.  They say the art of the "mixtape" is at an end, but I beg to disagree. While I have heard and listened to a few of these great artists previously (Eagleowl, Mount Analogue and Tom Peel), I have included three tracks that I had not heard prior and really are perfect examples of what this sound is about: Anton Rothschild's "I Give In" - This Dainty Records artist brings a track that at it's heart, an acoustic track with piano accents, peppered with Anton's fragile voice.  You feel like the song is tragic, but is doing it's best to keep it's head up (and possibly above water). The Heaving Seas' "Portland Street" - This is a lo-fi gem.  The classic strumming, gritty and intimate vocal recording quenches your "bedroom folk" thirst.  It is as if its a literal reflection of a rainy day Portland as seen by anyone, anywhere. Sarah Lain's "Floating" - This song is ethereal and stunning.  Sometimes you just know that the voice is meant for literally floating over melancholy.  This one is a highlight of the album for me and IFF Transponder has a real talent on their hands. Please consider visiting and joining the new Last.fm group "New Weird UK", joining and picking up the rest of the tracks for the release.  While there, do not forget to check each artist for more music - listen to it, share it and plain and simply enjoy the great sounds of New Weird UK. ~Smansmith Americana, Best New Music, Down-Tempo, Folk, Freak Folk, indie, lo-fi, New Album, Singer Songwriter, Unsigned no no http://slowcoustic.com/2009/01/27/a-fatcat-records-playlist/ http://slowcoustic.com/2009/01/27/a-fatcat-records-playlist/#comments Tue, 27 Jan 2009 15:08:47 +0000 slowcoustic http://slowcoustic.com/?p=1163 Woot!  Part three of the a series I have going on record labels (part 1, part 2).  This time we have the ever impressive “FatCat Records” from Brighton (and Brooklyn).

FatCat Records is pretty much an “ahead of the curve” indie label with a few great “straight ahead” indie artists.  If you are a bit sketchy on what I am trying to say, think of starting at Animal Collective and move towards Frightened Rabbit.  See, now you know what I mean.  It is always hard to get all the “new stuff” for an entire label’s roster (and there is surprising little downloads on the their website), but check out below for some great samples of what FC has to offer.

• Amandine
  “Faintest Of Sparks” (mp3)
  from “Solace In Sore Hands”
  (Fat Cat Records) More On This Album
• David Karsten Daniels
  “Martha Ann” (mp3)
  from “Fear of Flying”
  (Fat Cat Records) More On This Album
• Frightened Rabbit
  “Be Less Rude” (mp3)
  from “Sing the Greys”
  (Fat Cat Records) More On This Album
• Frightened Rabbit
  “Head Rolls Off” (mp3)
  from “The Midnight Organ Fight”
  (Fat Cat Records) More On This Album
• Gregory & The Hawk
  “Grey Weather” (mp3)
  from “Moenie And Kitchi”
  (Fat Cat Records) More On This Album
• Hauschka
  “Freibad” (mp3)
  from “Ferndorf”
  (Fat Cat Records) More On This Album
• Mice Parade
  “Double Dolphins On The Nickel” (mp3)
  from “Mice Parade”
  (Fat Cat Records) More On This Album
• Mum
  “Dancing Behind My Eyelids” (mp3)
  from “Go Go Smear the Poison Ivy”
  (Fat Cat Records) More On This Album
• No Age
  “My Life’s Alright Without You” (mp3)
  from “Weirdo Rippers”
  (Fat Cat Records) More On This Album
• Songs Of Green Pheasant
  “King Friday” (mp3)
  from “Gyllyng Street”
  (Fat Cat Records) More On This Album
• Ten Kens
  “Bearfight” (mp3)
  from “Ten Kens”
  (Fat Cat Records) More On This Album
• The Twilight Sad
  “Cold Days From The Birdhouse” (mp3)
  from “Fourteen Autumns, Fifteen Winters”
  (Fat Cat Records) More On This Album

• Silje Nes

“Ames Room” (mp3)
from “Yellow EP”
(Fat Cat Records)
More On This Album

There you have it, hefty amount of music for a Tuesday, no?

~Smansmith

Well I have done this before and I am sure I will do it again.  Let’s see what a pretty damn good label has for us today – a little bit of a sampler of another provider of music…if you will.

While I don’t pretend to know all the artists on the AKR label (and I wouldn’t exactly say they are considered “Slowcoustic”) but there are certainly some interesting ones.  An almost end to end “indie” presence if you will.  What I mean by that is the fact that they have fairly mainstream indie all the way to freak folk.  Case in point going from Chris Garneau to Xiu Xiu….nuff said.  I think this is what makes Absolutely Kosher so attractive to artists/acts – respected, play the field for styles and have 10 years of history to back it up.

I know you are going to ask about the name of the label, so you can also find the meaning behind the distinctly Jewish name under their “info” tab from their website.  The “Coles notes” version is that Cory Brown (who is Jewish) wanted a very identifiable name, but in the same respect knew it was a bit tongue in cheek.  It it helped bring attention to the Jewish contribution to music, well then all the better.  There that’s it (from what I read).

So let’s get on with some tunes, shall we!!!  See below for a cross section of the vast library of current artists (if I miss anyone/artist, it is due to simple math!!  11 tracks is good for now…I hope).

+/- {Plus/Minus}

“Snowblind” (mp3)
from “Xs On Your Eyes”

More On This Album

Chris Garneau
“Baby’s Romance” (mp3)
from “Music For Tourists”

More On This Album

Bottom Of The Hudson
“Bee Hive” (mp3)
from “Fantastic Hawk”

More On This Album

Frog Eyes
“One In Six Children Will Flee In Boats” (mp3)
from “The Golden River”

More On This Album

Okay
“Oh” (mp3)
from “Low Road”

More On This Album

Pinback
“B” (mp3)
from “Offcell”

More On This Album

The Wrens
“Everyone Choose Sides” (mp3)
from “The Meadowlands”

More On This Album

Xiu Xiu
“jennifer lopez (the sweet science version)” (mp3)
from “Chapel of the Chimes”

More On This Album

The Extra Glenns
“Going to Marrakesh” (mp3)
from “Martial Arts Weekend”

More On This Album

Sybris
“Oh Man!” (mp3)
from “Into the Trees”

More On This Album

Azeda Booth
“Ran” (mp3)

from “In Flesh Tones”
More On This Album

Now tell me this isn’t a great start on the label material.  There is singer songwriter, alt rock, folk rock and even freak folk.  So now that your pallet is wet with the talent that spans the roster of the label – head on over and see for yourself!

~Smansmith
p.s.  Oops, almost forgot to post Chris Garneau – “Baby’s Romance” my podpress player is set for 10 tracks only (as it slows down wordpress)….so here is a direct link!

Basket of Figs is a seriously entrancing singer songwriter from Toronto, Canada.  There…you have as much information about her as I do.  Well, almost.

Did you ever listen to music that simply amazes you?  Everyone needs to, and I recently experienced it with the EP entitled “666″ from Basket of Figs obtained through the Yer Bird Aviary.  Of course she even admits to the title of the EP being “ridiculous”, but it only lends to the enigma that is this artist.  So far, I have never seen a photo of this young Torontonian (yes, that is what they are called in the Canadian capital), and I think this is how she likes it.  Again, this lends to the mystery.  She creates a delicate lo-fi folk noir.  I find myself lost inside of it, it is truly amazing.  If Janis Joplin merged with Billie Holiday and then melded to modern day folk – this would be the incredibly powerful yet beautiful result.

Of what I know, she formerly was known as “The Hotel Ghost” and has a track on the Yer Bird Compilation “Folk Music for the End of the World” called “Lay Me Down” which has been re-recorded for inclusion on the “666″ EP as “Basket of Figs”.  My good friends over at Herohill have a great post (and mp3s) on the EP and are equally enamored, as well as elude to an upcoming full length release – I, for one am going to be sitting by the glow of my computer waiting for the chance to capture the next release of this stranger that is “Basket of Figs”.

Visit her on Tumblr or her MySpace page here before it disappears.  I am not joking one little bit.

~Smansmith

photo taken from Aberdeen show flyer

So upcoming concert possibility is Ghost Bees and Laura Barrett here in Calgary on December 4th.  I am still up in the air on participating so I am putting up a couple of tracks to see if you can convince me that I will be missing something by not heading into the dark and possibly snowy evening.

I am not exactly sure who is opening for who, but I think Laura Barrett is the headline with Ghost Bees in support – I don’t know why, but I often find myself waiting in line to see the first 30 minutes of any concert.  In other words, I may just be hitting the clubs for another opening band experience.  That’s okay in my books, that makes me more “indie” doesn’t it?

I believe Barrett is touring in light of her newest album “Victory Garden” that was released this past September while Ghost Bees will be folking around with their early 2008 release “Tasseomancy”.  I have listened a bit to each and admit we are still in negotiations, but I am sure I will bend and admit that I am fully enjoying them completely.

Oh well, take a listen, let me know if you think I should hunker down and watch some network television or brave the elements and be enthralled with harmonious vocals (albeit more high pitched than average for the most part).

Wow, do I ever sound complacent and lazy…

~Smansmith

Laura Barrett
“Robot Ponies” (mp3)
from “Earth Sciences”
(Paper Bag Records)

“Deception Island Optimists Club” (mp3)
from “Earth Sciences”
(Paper Bag Records)

More On This Album

Ghost Bees
“Vampire of the West Coast” (mp3)
from “Tasseomancy”
(Youth Club Records)

More On This Album

just in case any regular readers are wondering, I post the songs twice as Hype Machine does not recognize the above label required links and only the below links.

Just so everyone knows that I now have a song of the week, and folks this is it.

I have recently picked up the Callers Album “Fortune” that was released this past August and fully missed them if it weren’t for my Western Vinly playlist.  The more I listen, the more I enjoy this album.  While it can be a bit out there, that is the charm of this release.  It has rock riffs, it has folk acoustics, it has Janis Joplin howling.  While the album has a few great listens, I am currently really enjoying “Rone”, “Tied About” and “More Than Right”.  They have seen a bit of blog play, but not enough.

This track is almost a lounge tune, a lounge where one might find themselves in a drunken stupor at the whim and torment of a 60′s gothic pin up girl.  With that description out there, without further adieu, here is my song of the week – More Than Right from Callers.

Callers
“More Than Right” (mp3)
from “Fortune”
(Western Vinyl)

More On This Album

~Smansmith

Well my daily discovery a few weeks back will be your daily discovery today.  Ladies and gentleman, I bring you the rolling stone named Nate A.  Nate currently records and performs under the guise of “Solomon’s Hollow” – and if you take a look at his MySpace page you will find out the name is simply something he is hoping he can come to grips with in the future.

In describing the music from one of his homemade CDRs he sent me (of about 150 originally “pressed”), the unassuming figure throws out glimpses of Devendra Banhart and Iron & Wine.  I know you are saying that these two indie cult mega stars don’t belong in the same room (for the most part) – they just might if your were young Nate.  Take a listen to “Sorrow Song” (Devendra-like) and then “Me Oh Maya” (Iron & Wine-esque) after which you might think the two styles can enjoy a bit of kick ball at recess together.

There are plans for another album once this rolling stone finds a place to call his own, and this is expected by Summer 2009.  Let’s hope the soon to be home finds him as quickly as possible.

Enjoy the two aforementioned tracks along with “Another Day” of which all are from his “Starts & Stops” album – get yourself a copy by simply asking him.

~Smansmith

So you think you know evil?  Well I don’t think you know it like Boduf Songs emanates it.  Pulsing and dark with an ominous soundtrack provided by Matthew Sweet.  Yes, a man with a surname of Sweet, brings this “at twilight lost in a forest” acoustic driven performance above that I am quickly becoming a follower of.

Now with all the evil analogies past us, the music is amazingly stark and I can’t stop listening to it.  I enjoy down tempo songwriters and this is one that you need headphones on in order to get lost in the album.  If you are watching and listening to the video above for “Pitiful Shadow Engulfed In Darkness” you are getting the chill of what I speak.  Okay, I had to have one more evil reference.   This 8 track release brings Boduf Songs full speed ahead to Mat’s fringe folk with droning baselines, haunting lyrics and even a bit of background noise/sounds that cause you to look around as if someone was possibly behind you.  But there is nobody there, right?

Click the album cover below to Purchase a copy of the album – highly recommended.

~Smansmith

While I do have the staples down, and have always appreciated “classics” like Marie Sioux, Joanna Newsom, Vashti Bunyan.  Lately I have been listening to a few newer classics in the way of Lotte Kestner, Joanne Robertson, Liz Durrett and now most recently Mary Hampton.  In order to even out my most recent lady loves, it is Mary Hampton’s turn to hit the Slowcoustic page.

(don’t think the fact that the album is pink is lost on me for this post…)

Mary Hampton is a traditional folk artist from Brighton, UK and has hit me like a sack of bricks with this recently released album.  Despite what many, many others describe as “Folk music”, this album can be heard as running the full gambit of this long and winding genre.  I believe this album does find it’s strengths in being heard as a classic album of traditional folk songs (hell, it could have been released 30-40 years ago and nobody would have batted an eye – well probably not), and it is her not her first release.  Hampton has two previous CDs – “Book One” & “Book Two” that are available via her MySpace page.  I am not familiar with the previous releases (I am on my way to check them out), but the new album released in August of this year includes favourites “Pygmalion” and “Because You’re Young”, of which the latter comes as a beautiful and powerful story of life and lessons learned.  It also feels like it could be quite brash in a live recording on the right day which might just be perfect with the track.  The song flows along gorgeously and you can almost feel like she is holding something back in her delivery (waiting for that live performance, me thinks).  Listen for yourself below.

FYI – “My Mother’s Children” is available via many online sellers including iTunes, Amazon and HMV or you can visit her on the label site – Navigator Records.  Another week of Sunday acoustic beauty.

~Smansmith

]]> http://slowcoustic.com/2008/10/05/the-fairer-sex/feed/ 0 3:33 So notoriously a fan of the male troupador and down on HIS luck singer songwriter, I have been having a bit of a rip in ... So notoriously a fan of the male troupador and down on HIS luck singer songwriter, I have been having a bit of a rip in my very own space-time continuum.  I have been listening to a lot of female artists lately, and it has been incredibly good. While I do have the staples down, and have always appreciated "classics" like Marie Sioux, Joanna Newsom, Vashti Bunyan.  Lately I have been listening to a few newer classics in the way of Lotte Kestner, Joanne Robertson, Liz Durrett and now most recently Mary Hampton.  In order to even out my most recent lady loves, it is Mary Hampton's turn to hit the Slowcoustic page. (don't think the fact that the album is pink is lost on me for this post...) Mary Hampton is a traditional folk artist from Brighton, UK and has hit me like a sack of bricks with this recently released album.  Despite what many, many others describe as "Folk music", this album can be heard as running the full gambit of this long and winding genre.  I believe this album does find it's strengths in being heard as a classic album of traditional folk songs (hell, it could have been released 30-40 years ago and nobody would have batted an eye - well probably not), and it is her not her first release.  Hampton has two previous CDs - "Book One" & "Book Two" that are available via her MySpace page.  I am not familiar with the previous releases (I am on my way to check them out), but the new album released in August of this year includes favourites "Pygmalion" and "Because You're Young", of which the latter comes as a beautiful and powerful story of life and lessons learned.  It also feels like it could be quite brash in a live recording on the right day which might just be perfect with the track.  The song flows along gorgeously and you can almost feel like she is holding something back in her delivery (waiting for that live performance, me thinks).  Listen for yourself below. FYI - "My Mother's Children" is available via many online sellers including iTunes, Amazon and HMV or you can visit her on the label site - Navigator Records.  Another week of Sunday acoustic beauty. ~Smansmith Best New Music, Folk, Freak Folk, indie, Ramblings, Singer Songwriter no yes http://slowcoustic.com/2008/09/17/chriss-sutherland-who-is-this-guy-no-really/ http://slowcoustic.com/2008/09/17/chriss-sutherland-who-is-this-guy-no-really/#comments Wed, 17 Sep 2008 13:08:49 +0000 slowcoustic http://slowcoustic.com/?p=355

So I admit I am a bit late on this one….2007 release from Chriss Sutherland “Me in a ‘field’”.  I found it via a commenter on this blog (Time Fades Away Blog) and a post they had from this past January – they had posted “La Familia” from this album.  I, of course, immediately went to find and purchase a copy of the album and was not dissapointed.

Me in a ‘field’ hits the slightly off key, anglo-mexican (??) cowboy market that is very much not a market at all…what I am trying to say is this album is a bit hard to nail down…is it folk, singer-songwriter, a bit of fringe folk, Americana?  I am not really sure, but it is refreshing and under promoted!  Whether it is Chriss’s (how many “s” is there?) raw vocals or the recording of the album seemingly going from 4-track to studio.  Well that might not exactly be the case, but there is a range on this album and I just can’t stick it inside my jacket, walk up to a stranger and say “Hey, wanna buy a ______?”.

I also tried to find out a little about Chriss (other than that he is part of Cerberus Shoal) or contact him for this post, but he seems a bit elusive (only remnants of his MySpace page are floating around the Google cache, and the CS site wasn’t updated recently) and decided I needed to post today, maybe an update to come, who knows.

So people, you tell me, Alt Country folk hero?  He just might be one day.  Pick up a copy here as I am telling you it just may be a collectors item in a few years (or just a great album for those in the know).  I have included my favourite track on the album “Grumblin’” (find a live on WMPG version here) and “Desde Maine” (From Maine), hope you like ‘em.

~Smansmith

The very musically experimental Devendra Banhart has been a staple on the indie circuit for many years.  He recently featured his ladylove Natalie Portman (and porn legend Ron Jeremy) in his music video for Carmensita from Smokey Rolls Down Thunder Canyon.  Carmensita is styled like a 60’s / 70’s Bollywood movie and showcases a multilingual Devendra.

Devendra’s unique vocals turn even ordinary lyrics into a performance that truly stands alone.  The pairing of Devendra and Natalie and the subsequent casting in the video may draw comparisons to her acclaimed performance in the indie darling “Garden State” (did Zach Braff really win a grammy for a mixed tape??)  To me Natalie will always be Queen Amidala regardless of how many music videos’ she stars in.  Devendra will be crossing over to the big screen with his cameo appearance in Nick & Norah’s Infinite Playlist due in theatres October 2008 (Devendra also contributes to the soundtrack).  The art of the “cross over” is a tricky one and while I don’t think Natalie or Devendra will abandon their current occupation, I enjoyed their “out of the box moment” but please don’t do it again.

Finding a duet partner for Devendra has proven to be a bit tricky so I ask for a little slack and an open mind.  I would like to introduce the angel like harmony of a Canadian Trio called The Wailin’ Jennys.

The ‘Jennys could be described as the perfect marriage of country, folk with a bit of celtic for some flavour.  Firecracker came out in 2006 and the group is currently touring the USA. It’s a fun slightly campy cd – and can be found on their website.

I am hoping you can connect the dots here people…

~Judes

I was thinking in traffic the other day about the “indie” band/artists and the vocal styling they can have.  What I am alluding to is the fact that often a vocalist in the “off the beaten path” side of the music industry can sometimes be…”not a formally trained vocalist”.

Basically you could get the range from hard to decipher lyrics to nails on chalkboard – so almost anything!  I wonder if they had an Indie American Idol – would they just take the people that get the cut from the real American Idol??!!?  Surely I jest and belittle what many great artists feel is their vocal style or even a calling card/signature delivery, but this does not necessarily make it untrue.

I admit myself that I now like and even LOVE some unique vocal styles, which at the onset felt strained and almost comical.  It is hard to explain how you can listen to some music quickly and possibly dismiss it totally and then after multiple listens it grows on you and eventually becomes exactly what you like.   Possibly you hear a song just at the right time, the exact point of the day or at a specific location that it was meant for, and at that very moment you “get it”.  This has happened to me for a few artists – can anyone say John Darnielle of The Mountain Goats or Jón Þór Birgisson of Sigur Rós??

Lets take a bit of a tour, shall we:

Alec Ounsworth – “Wide Awake” – demo from before/on the side of Clap Your Hands Say Yeah(!)
Bon Iver – “Flume” from the Incredible 2007/08 release “For Emma, Forever Ago” album.
Joanna Newsom – “Sawdust & Diamonds” from 2006′s “Ys” album

You can’t deny that if you were a first time listener of the above songs, you would think twice prior to a second listen.  Well maybe not, they are some good tracks, but you feel me on this one, I just know it.

~Smansmith