This is Barclay James Harvest live in concert in Amsterdam, Holland back on the 25th May 1984.
After signing with EMI's Parlophone in the UK for one single in early 1968, they moved to the more progressively inclined Harvest label. Their self-titled debut album was released in mid 1970 to positive reviews, but few sales. Their second album Once Again gained more favourable reviews, and the tour that followed was conducted with a full orchestra under the guidance of Robert John Godfrey. Their third album Barclay James Harvest and Other Short Stories was an even greater achievement, though Martyn Ford was brought in to supervise the orchestral work after Robert John Godfrey departed over writing issues behind "Mockingbird" - one of the group's most consistently popular tracks. By the release of their fourth album, Baby James Harvest, in 1972, the pressures of touring were beginning to have an impact on the band, and the album's inconsistency was noticed by both fans and critics alike.
After this album, they departed from EMI, and signed to Polydor, the move immediately resulting in greater sales. The next album, Everyone Is Everybody Else (1974), is viewed by many as their artistic high point. The album being played extensively on Radio Caroline, and later appearing in their Top 100 All Time Albums Chart. It also led to the band being invited to a BBC Radio 1 session for John Peel. The double live album, Barclay James Harvest Live, which followed in late 1974, built upon their solid fanbase, and was the first to chart in the UK, reaching number 40. Time Honoured Ghosts (1975), recorded in the USA, followed and this also charted in the UK reaching number 32. Octoberon followed in '76 and reached #19 in the UK. They finally broke into the mainstream European market with their 1977 set Gone to Earth, which contained the song "Poor Man's Moody Blues", a homage to that band's 'Nights in White Satin', and also a title foisted upon Barclay James Harvest by press critics in the early 70s.
Woolly Wolstenholme – whose mellotron playing was a trademark of the band's sound in the 70s – left in 1979 after the album XII. Woolly pursued a short solo career fronting Maestoso, before retiring from the music business to pursue farming.
The remaining three members continued. At the height of their success, they played a free concert in front of the Reichstag in West Berlin, with an estimated attendance of 250,000 people (30 August 1980). They were also the first Western rock band to play an open-air concert in pre-Glasnost East Germany, playing in Treptower Park, East Berlin on 14 July 1987 to a 170,000 plus audience.
The band continued as a trio with regular guest musicians until 1998. One album, Welcome to the Show, released in 1990, was released under the abbreviated name BJH. However, because of criticism from fans, the full Barclay James Harvest name was restored, albeit with the inclusion of the BJH moniker.
In 1998, musical differences in the band saw the three members agree to take a sabbatical. John Lees subsequently released an album mixing new songs and BJH classics, entitled Nexus, under the band name "Barclay James Harvest through the eyes of John Lees". Woolly Wolstenholme played in (and composed for) this band, subsequently resurrecting Maestoso to record and tour with new material, as well as back-catalogue favourites. Les Holroyd and Mel Pritchard teamed up to record under the name "Barclay James Harvest featuring Les Holroyd". Lees and Wolstenholme recently (2006/7) toured under the slightly modified band title "John Lees' Barclay James Harvest".
Mel Pritchard died suddenly of a heart attack in early 2004. Woolly Wolstenholme very sadly took his own life in December 2010 having apparently struggled with depression for many years.
The two derivatives of the original Barclay James Harvest continued to record and tour until today, and enjoy ongoing popularity, particularly in Germany, France, and Switzerland.
Source: FM Stereo Broadcast.
Sound Quality: Very good MP3 @256kbps.
Genre: Art rock, progressive rock, psychedelic rock.
Set: Full set.
Set List:
01 Fifties Child (4:47) 02 Hold On (5:25) 03 Rebel Woman (5:35) 04 Waiting For The Right Time (6:41) 05 Just A Day Away (4:04) 06 I've Got A Feeling (7:06) 07 Sideshow (4:25) 08 Rock n Roll Lady (5:19) 09 Paraiso Dos Cavalos (6:13) 10 Victims Of Circumstance (5:55) 11 Poor Man's Moody Blues (7:29) 12 Life Is For Living (4:11) 13 For Your Love (8:09) 14 Looking From The Outside (4:34) 15 Child Of The Universe (5:39) 16 Berlin (8:59) 17 Inside My Nightmare (6:19) 18 Ring Of Changes (7:36)
This is another Pink Floyd concert that is hardly an exclusive for Beehive Candy, however the quality of this specific remastered version, the songs performed and the unique nature of this bootleg make it a must feature as far as we are concerned.
Copying from the notes that have been circulated with this remastered version we quote - M-502 is the matrix number of the original 2-LP vinyl set that was made in Europe sometime in the 70's (performance Grosser Saal Musikhalle, Hamburg, West Germany February 25, 1971). Although there are many different versions of this show, all of them are sourced from a M-502 vinyl copy. Some sound better than others, none of them sound anything like this. (Take Linda Surfin' was a popular one). This 2-CDR set comes from a mint condition original LP, and has been beautifully remastered by the Digital Floyd Archives. Not only is this one of the best sounding recordings (especially of this era), this is one of the best vinyl remastering jobs I have ever heard. An original vinyl find is almost unthinkable.
Known Flaws:
If there's any surface noise on this, I can't hear it. May be a little at the start of disc 2, but this is a non-issue. The original recording does sound slightly "overdriven"; there is some mild distortion on the loudest parts of the first set. Cymbaline fades in around the second verse. There is also a bit of static in 'green is the color'; this is mic noise caused by the taper, and is in the original. Overall sound quality is a solid 9 out of 10, with the only penalty being for the above flaws. ooh... those cymbals!
The performance:
Wow. This seems to be the only concert with the brass/choir on Atom Heart Mother where the brass section didn't make any mistakes! Also, the 18+ minute version of A Saucerful of Secrets is probably the definitive version of this song. Did I mention that this is my favorite version of Careful With That Axe, Eugene? Roger's doesn't scream, he roars. Hold on to your hat.
Source: Audience (do not be put off - this is an incredible copy).
Sound Quality: Very good MP3 @256kbps.
Genre: Progressive rock, psychedelic rock, contemporary.
Set: Full set.
Set List:
1. Green Is the Color
2. Careful With That Axe Eugene
3. Cymbaline (missing first verse)
4. The Embryo
5. Set the Controls for the Heart of the Sun
6. A Saucerful of Secrets
7. Atom Heart Mother
Background:yourfeetstoobig (or yftb) is 22 year old Chicago resident Kevin Benishek. Currently working under the moniker yourfeetstoobig, Kevin Benishek is a artist/musician who has in the past dabbled in everything from hip-hop beats to lo-fi experimental projects.
"My methods are constantly changing and evolving" as Kevin puts it. What was once an electronic bedroom project (started in 2009) has quickly grown into live shows. Blending a multitude of different genres, everything from pop, shoegaze and freak-folk finds its way into the yourfeetstoobig soundwaves.
Since the release of his first self-released EP, Hunter/Gather (released January 19th), his lo-fi, pop tracks have been featured on SIC Records 100th release, loveSICdisco, with the likes of Memory Tapes, Memory House and Niva. Tracks have also been released through the digital singles label Beko-DSL.
yourfeetstoobig's tracks are upbeat, but engaging and beautiful to listen to anywhere. The dance pop-influenced tracks have been said to be a blend of Washed Out meets Neon Indian meets Memory Tapes. yourfeetstoobig is low-budget, low-fidelity pop, tailored for the nostalgic generation.
2011Candy Says: If electronica is your thing, this should really impress, if your not so sure then listen along for a while, as this is a really cool artist who uses melodies and rhythms that just hooked the Beehive. Listen:Pintail. Web:Bandcamp.
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Background: Join the fun of the first inaugural Snow Ball Festival in Vail Valley, CO March 4-6, 2011! With the stellar lineup and beautiful surroundings, there's really no good reason to miss out. A few more fun facts of the fest below:
-- First group to sign on was Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeroes, who are coming a couple days early to ski and hang out in the mountains. The second group was local Denver band Gauntlet Hair. The last group to sign on was The Flaming Lips.
-- It will be the first ever Colorado plays for Twin Shadow, Miami Horror, Lord Huron, and Parisian producer Onra.
-- The festival is selling a festival pass/ski lift combo (as well as music only passes). The fest will take place outdoors. While the organizers admit it won't exactly be tropical temperatures outside, they believe the (very likely) snowflakes, surrounding mountains, and wintry vibes will make for a nice change from standard music festival experiences, offering something unique and distinguished for those who enjoy all seasons.
-- The festival is three days, with music from 2pm - 10pm, so that visitors can still have time to enjoy the Vail Valley before and after each day of music. Snow Ball will bring 10,000 people to Nottingham Park in Avon, CO, which is at the base of the Beaver Creek Ski mountain and sits next to what will be a frozen-over Nottingham Lake.
-- Fort Collins, Colorado psychedelic indie group Candy Claws has offered up their track "Snowdrift Wish" for those attending and wishing to attend the first inaugural Snow Ball Music Festival in Vail Valley Colorado. Enjoy this winter gem from the Two Syllable Records rarities compilation.
2011Candy Says: Talking about Candy Claws specifically I love this featured song that has an oriental feel to it and an element that makes them a perfect fit for a festival headlined by The Flaming Lips. It all comes naturally together. Listen: Candy Claws -Snow Drift Wish. Web: Snowball Festival.
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Background:Two Tears is Kerry Davis of the legendary Red Aunts (Epitaph and Sympathy for the Record Industry). She also played with Mick Collins in The Screws (In The Red Records). This is Kerry's latest single and follows her early 2010 single on Windian Records. This single features 3 of Kerry's raddest garage rockers. Three songs that were written and recorded in 3 different continents (The specific cities they were written in were Paris, Dubai and New York City). Art was designed by Kerry herself, and is hand numbered. Limited to 500 copies. First 100 on Pink/White mixed vinyl. Single will be available on Itunes, Amazon, Emusic and other MP3 retailers when the release date comes. Two Tears has toured Europe with The Donnas, Jon Spencer, Mark Sultan, Dan Sartain, and many more. They have also played CMJ Music festival in NYC the last 2 years. She's had 2 LPs out before, one on Bratmobile/Lookout Record's Molly Neuman's label Simple Social Graces.
For Fans Of: Pussy Galore, Sleater-Kinney, Breeders, Bassholes, etc - Two Tears will be spending 6 weeks in Europe touring with Dan Sartain in support of the new release during April and May.
Denver Post said - "Another case was Kerry Davis of Two Tears, who completely stole the show. As she set up, it looked at first like she’d fit nicely into the standard one-man fare. And then she opened her mouth and unleashed a fiery attitude that exploded from every pore, compounded by each brutal thrust of her knee-high, boot-clad right foot on a bass drum pedal. Davis was anything but “just traditional,” and seemed anything but satisfied. Her style wrapped the power of all of X inside of a cocoon made with the pelts of Jon Spencer (more from Pussy Galore days) and Jack White. “Senso Unico” (“one way” in Italian) may have defined the whole festival in its few short minutes: one way to go, one way to do it and only one person worthy of the task".
2011Candy Says: There's a hint of the B52's in the featured song, however there is enough personal attitude and a very different guitar feel that makes this one fine song. More Please! Listen:Heisse Hexe. Web: MySpace.
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Background: Dad Rocks! is Icelandic/Danish Snævar Njáll Albertsson, singer in Danish band Mimas. Dad Rocks!, however, is quite different: The guitar here is acoustic and is accompanied by piano, trumpet, accordion, hand claps and more. As Dad Rocks!, Snævar is inspired by acts such as Bill Callahan, Owen, Why?, Akron/Family and Do Make Say Think. This has led to a sound that is a unique mix of psych folk and lo-fi country with elements of hip hop and use of dubs. However, Snævar Njáll Albertsson’s primary sources of inspiration are the relations closest to him. Most of all his little daughter who also inspired by name Dad Rocks!, which is of course also a pun on the ’dad rock’ genre. This use of pathos and irony is something that is explored throughout his work. Lyrically, this is also a central aspect. The subjects are both big and small. Sometimes delivered almost cynically with words that are close to naïvism. Underneath this, the irony lurks at every corner, and even the debut EP title ‘Digital Age’ explores the space between pathos and irony.
Dad Rocks! released ’Digital Age’ in Denmark in april in Denmark through danish label ’Kanel Records’. English label ´Big Scary Monsters Records’ later fell in love with the music of Dad Rocks! and released the EP in the UK on August 16th. The EP was very well-received by the music-media, and even NME featured the video for the single ’Nothing Keeps Up’ on the their website.
Dad Rocks! is in the midst of recording his debut-album to be released this Spring.
2011Candy Says: OK so the vocals are clearly regional, you know early on that this is from somewhere in the cold part of the north of Europe, but the instruments could be from anywhere in an old mining village in the UK. Reminds me a little bit of Roy Harper, but that can only be a massive complement. Listen:Aroused By Hair. Web: Soundcloud.
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Background: We recieved the following recently from Collin, the singer for the band Home Video which we featured recently for their latest album. He tells us - I have a brand new side solo project that has time sensitive subject matter that I thought you might interested in.
The band is called NiveHive, and the album is a Wikileaks Concept Album titled "Collateral Sounds".
Musically, it is inspired by dark, minimal electronic bands like Kraftwerk and Pan Sonic. Politically it is inspired by independent left media like Democracy Now and Glenn Greenwald... not to mention Wikileaks, Bradley Manning, and Anonymous. Each track on the forthcoming album will highlight and comment on a different aspect of the Wikileaks drama that is unfolding. Some of the tracks have straightforward vocals samples, while some attempt to present information in a more obscure way. It is politically smart, while also musically engaging.
The track, "The Stuffed Men Bristle", that I have a link to below, is instrumental music for the most part - with some vocal samples provided by some of our beloved US government leaders. ( The title is a reference to T.S. Eliot's poem, "The Hollow Men".)
2011Candy Says: Collin, you are a very talented guy ! With a few pieces that have an electronica feel to them in this edition of 2011Candy, this for me is up with them all and the use of vocal samples demonstrates first hand that what Pink Floyd developed still has a long way to go. Listen:The Stuffed Men Bristle. Web: MySpace.
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Background: With a Canadian Radio Music Award nomination for their song, “Change of Seasons,” and brand spankin’ new single, “Lazy Susan,” that’s climbing the top of the charts, Sweet Thing will be wrapping up their highly buzzed Canadian tour with a stop off in the U.S. The band will be showcasing their rockin’ indie pop styling on March 14th at Pianos in NYC and all throughout SXSW in Austin, TX.
Hailing from Toronto, Sweet Thing was formed three years ago by Owen Carrier, the lead singer, and Alex Winter, the lead guitarist. From there, they gathered the talents Nick Rose, Tyler Kyte, and Morgan Waters, ultimately creating the five-piece band, Sweet Thing. With the dueling guitar harmonies of Alex Winter and Nick Rose, Morgan Waters laying down the bass line, and Tyler Kyte driving the beat, Owen Carrier’s voice carries angelically across the stage.
With this tight-knit group, Sweet Thing has become known for their catchy and cleverly written songs, amazing live performances, entertaining personalities, and their high-profile fans (including Emma Stone and George Stroumboulopoulus). Since the release of their self-titled debut album and with their song, “Change of Seasons,” being featured in the film, Easy A, Sweet Thing has established strong excitement for their tour in Canada as well as stateside. The band has already lined up a series of high profile gigs in NYC and Austin for SXSW. The New York show is schedule for March 14th at Pianos and later that week, Sweet Thing, will be making their way down to Texas for SXSW to play shows starting March 18th.
2011Candy Says: It's a good indie pop song. It does everything a good indie pop song should do and then it also decides to rock - that's not allowed! Listen:Change Of Seasons. Web:MySpace.
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Background: From those lovely people at Paper Garden Lovely Hearts Club we received the following - One cold winter day in NYC, we here at The Lovely Hearts Club decided we needed an anthem to get us through the February blues and excite us for the Spring. There were many stipulations however. It had to be uplifting, familiar, easy to love, perhaps some horns, female harmonies, clever to a point of genius and strong on the team vibe. Where could we possible find a song like that? Then it happened... destiny appeared in the form of an email from Team Genius, delivering unto us this track, 'Making Myths' from their upcoming LP slated for release later this Summer embodying everything a dwelling New York indie music company could ask for.
Team Genius will be releasing a series of 4 albums (3 EPs and an LP) starting in April. Catch these clever Brooklyn kids at our SXSW showcase on Friday, March 18th at Uncorked (900 East 7th St) or one of their other SXSW or NYC shows.
2011Candy Says: I know very little about Team Genius. I hear a touch of Big Audio Dynamite circa E=MC2 and then I hear more harmonies and the one thing I realise is this is a cool track, enough said! Listen:Making Myths. Web:Official.
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Background: Combining the unassuming guitar pop of the 50’s and 60’s with some of the fuzzier, kookier rock of the 90’s and pre-apocalypse, Australian independent band The Honey Pies create music which is at once nostalgic and revelatory: Pre-post-rock, if you will. For two years now they have been gigging and touring ravenously, supporting the likes of Tim Rogers, Parades, The Jezabels, John Steel Singers, Leader Cheetah, Belles Will Ring and Oh Mercy. Their debut album Think of England (released January 12, 2011), recorded by local-wiz Tom Barnes (Leader Cheetah, Empire of the Sun, Colonel Kernel, The Transatlantics), captures the versatility of their alluring live set, from harmony-laden ditties to shambolic punk anthems.
2011Candy Says: Retro cant be that easy especially when you are stuck these days with recording equipment that can so easily show every flaw. So I am guessing my point is that The Honey Pies are pretty clever at sounding from somewhere in the sixties and carrying the vibes of the second decade of this worrying century. Listen:Get It Right. Web:Official.
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Background: From egg-shaped plush chairs or towering cabinets carved like totem poles, hi-fi sound once poured over the conversation pits and cocktail hours of yesteryear. The warm tone and stop-and-listen vibe continue with exotica innovators Waitiki 7’s latest venture, Waitiki in Hi-Fi (Pass Out Records; April 12, 2011). The vinyl-only release of new material finally gives listeners—die-hard exotica connoisseurs, record collectors, or the merely tiki-curious—a chance to sit back and savor the group’s fresh look at a mid century music in clear, rich analog.
Timed to honor the 100th anniversary of Martin Denny’s birth, the record pays homage to the exotica pioneer with whom several band members had the privilege to work with before his death. Thanks to Denny and many other highly skilled musicians, exotica’s tropical soundscapes, Latin dance grooves, and potent jazz chops became mainstays on turntables around the world.
Often misunderstood as kitsch, exotica was born in Hawaii’s vibrant postwar music scene and went mainstream when musicians like Martin Denny performed on national television shows like American Bandstand, Andy Williams, and Steve Allen. (Denny’s ’59 hit single “Quiet Village” reached #4 on Billboard’s charts, with his Exotica album eventually reaching number 1).
The scene Denny helped spark found new life in the 1990s when groups like Combustible Edison took a serious new look at a funky old art form. Part of the lounge revival, which included renewed interest in neglected cocktail recipes, vintage technology, and mid century pop design, the band spearheaded a movement that continues to flourish, thanks to a new generation of dedicated ensembles like Waitiki.
2011Candy Says: I know little about this style of music beyond saying it is captivating and so.. atmospheric. Those who fear 'world music' can come in from out of the cold and enjoy this. Listen:Similau (remix by Tabu). Web:Official.
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Background: Singer/songwriter Holly Long has two hands, and she’s using them. She’s no princess, and she’s no queen. She’s just a straight up modern day musical artisan with a genuine love for the work and an impressive track record. Having crafted 4 albums over the past decade in her pop/funk/soul hybrid style with a string of top-shelf producers, Long communicates her passion and worldview with an evocative sound in league with Annie Lennox, Sarah McLachlan, and Carly Simon. It’s not just about the music, though. Much like for her chanteuse heroines, music is about connection and community. It’s where she finds herself, and how she makes her contribution to the world.
Still bearing the better parts of her Chicago-born savvy, she recalls how music first moved her. “I remember how a song could give voice to my moods and change how I felt when I was a kid. It could express the deep stuff that I didn’t know how to get out on my own, and it really transported me. It moved me, took me from one emotional place to another.” From piano lessons at age 7 to plays and musicals in high school, and right on through a move to Los Angeles to study Theater at UCLA and pursue a career as an actor and comedian, music transported her and connected her mind and soul. It was during this time that she began reaching for the piano and scribbled sheets of lyrics as a way of being creatively productive while waiting for the gatekeepers of the acting world to grant her admission. The final push towards music, though, came when she was literally brought to death’s door by endocarditis, an often-fatal heart infection. After waking from a week-long coma she began the process of learning to move and live again from scratch, and felt a movement in her away from acting and directly into music. What could have become a bitter and barren creative period was refashioned as the doorway to her future as a vital, tough, and compassionate singer/songwriter.
2011Candy Says: Nice funky music with heart and soul. A wonderful musical arrangement with harmony vocals to match. So check it out please! Listen: Pretty Picture Frame. Web: Official.
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Background: Up out of the post-industrial chaos and primordial creative energies of Oakland, California arrives a welcome aberration. Dylan Travis, Brian Kennedy, Tyler Corelitz, and Emery Barter make up Man/Miracle, one of those rare guitar groups that play their songs with raw emotional honesty and urgent ambition. Whether it is the upbeat, complex beauty of “Hot Sprawl” from their acclaimed 2010 debut The Shape of Things or the propulsive pop gem that is their new single, “Don’t Waste It,” Man/Miracle consistently deliver their unique sound with verve. After a major US tour in support of The Shape of Things, the four-piece has begun tracking an as-yet untitled new album, set to be released in the spring of 2011. “Don’t Waste It” bridges the sonic divide between the first record and the second—between the bright, joyous pop that earned praise on The Shape of Things and the darker atmospheric textures that permeate the upcoming LP. Fusing disparate and difficult sounds in a beautiful way is one of the band’s most admirable talents, and “Don’t Waste It” manages to wed the delayed guitar intricacies of British giants like The Chameleons and Slowdive with driving, meditative drums and a distorted freak out that recalls early-90’s indie rock. The B-side, “Oakland Island,” is a spontaneous piece of studio improvisation that reaps considerable rewards. A gorgeously warped piece of California surf rock, “Oakland Island” features spacious guitar interplay, crooned Scott Walker-worshiping vocals, and the production talents of Eli Crews (Deerhoof, Beulah). The single was released digitally March 1st via Third Culture Records.
2011Candy Says: Loads of words above, what can we add? Well we just needed to finish this edition with some atmosphere, guitars and Man/Miracle have done the trick and they know how to build up and up. Listen:Don't Waste It. Web: Official.
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Rather than just rewrite the liner notes that accompanied this I have just copied and pasted them in full, the story behind this is all there and reads as follows.
As early as in the late ’60s, Frank Zappa was already planning a big box called The History & Collected Improvisations of the Mothers of Invention. Among the discs in the collection (it has been reported as a 12-record set, then a 10-LP set and later a nine-disc set) is The Weasel Music.
Some tracks from this big box found their way to Weasels Ripped My Flesh in 1970. According to one review on the internet, “This is Zappa’s most avant garde work. If Ornette Coleman, Albert Ayler and Peter Brotzmann got together and made a rock album, it would sound like this.” The wikipedia notes: “Weasels Ripped My Flesh mostly captures the Mothers on stage, where they employ frenetic and chaotic improvisation characteristic of avant-garde free jazz.”
The Weasel Music Acetate would fit right at home on Weasels Ripped My Flesh. As fans know, Zappa’s song titles rarely offer glimpses into what the songs are about. Hence Chamber Music Piece 1 is not a soothing piece to while away a lazy afternoon. It’s actually a free-jazz piece with a “slow” build-up but it doesn’t really turn frenetic. On the other hand, Mozart Ballet would be considered a light classical piece, with tinkling piano, that seems to elicit screaming and laughter from the audience and the song ends with some heavy-duty feedback and guitar wailing. The track, Some Zany MOI Bullshit, might be what happens if Randy Newman had tried his hand at free-jazz.
For those who only read about The Weasel Music, here it is, thanks to TFEC who shared the tracks on the internet. The tracks are taken off the original acetate, went for auction at eBay. The winning bid was US $2,550.00.
According to TFEC:
"So I get a call from the widow of the great artist, Neon Park. She says, "I've been going through Marty's stuff (Neon's real name was Marty) and I have a lot of records of his. I was talking to [mutual friend] Betzy and she said you like records. Do you want them?" and, being the vinyl hound I am, I said, "You bet! I'll take 'em all sight unseen." She said, "Okay, I'll go pull the can back in from the street." She had had them all in a trash can waiting for the Sanitation Engineers to pick them up.
Now I know Neon worked for many years doing album art for Warner Brothers (best known for Zappa's WEASELS RIPPED MY FLESH and his string of covers for LITTLE FEAT) and was on their mailing list for new releases. Upon going through the LPs from the trash bin I found the usual assortment of product, some good, some not to my liking.
But then...
In an envelope addressed to Mr. Frank Zappa at his Laurel Canyon address, I found these studio acetate test recordings: a copy of Jean-Luc Ponty's Zappa tribute LP, KING KONG, and a curious disc labeled "The Weasel Music". Suspecting that this might indeed BE SOMETHING, I cautiously played it once. It seemed to be a live recording of the Mothers goofing around on stage doing what I guessed to be a mock-ballet. While light pseudo-classical piano arpeggios play (Ian Underwood?) you can hear the shuffling of feet and various antics while the crowd respond with laughter and amusement. I would imagine that it was mostly a visual presentation as opposed to an essential Zappa musical composition.
I kept this relic in good condition, still in its original envelope and cardboards. I lent it to my new friend and Zappaphile, Krel, when I moved to Little Rock. He has played it only twice, recording it both times."
Source: Soundboard.
Sound Quality: Good quality mp3@192kbps.
Genre: Rock, jazz fusion, classical, avant-garde.
Set: Acetate Disc (five tracks).
Track List:
1. Albert Hall Spoken Introduction (2:05)
2. Chamber Music Piece 1 (4:04)
3. Mozart Ballet (6:34)
4. Some Zany MOI Bullshit (2:41)
5. Chamber Music Piece 2 (0:40)
This is Supergrass live at Rock City, Nottingham, England back on the 18th January 1998. The band split up last year (2010) siting musical differences however during their eighteen years together a legacy of energised, excuberent performances both live and recorded will I am sure be remembered with great fondness by many.
In mid-1994, Supergrass issued their debut single "Caught by the Fuzz" on the small independent local (Oxford) label Backbeat Records. The song recounts lead singer and guitarist Gaz Coombes' experience of being arrested and cautioned by police in possession of cannabis. The limited release of vinyl copies sold out quickly, thanks in part to support from John Peel on his Radio One show. The Parlophone label signed the band and re-released the single in the autumn of the same year. It achieved the rare feat of both NME and Melody Maker "Single Of The Week" status in the same week.
"Mansize Rooster", released in February 1995, peaked at number 20 in the UK Single Charts and "Lenny" just made it into the top 10. "Lenny" was followed soon afterwards by the band's debut album, I Should Coco (May 1995), which entered the UK Album Charts at number one. It achieved a half-a-million sales in the UK and over a million worldwide. NME reviewer Steve Sutherland gave the album a nine out of ten rating, writing, "These freaks shall inherit the earth." The album's fourth single, the double A-side release "Alright"/"Time", stayed in British Top Three for a month, peaking at number two.
Supergrass followed I Should Coco with 18 months of heavy touring, appearing at festivals such as Scotland's T In The Park and the Glastonbury Festival. After Performing in Rio's Hollywood Rock Festival in April 1996, Supergrass met the infamous train robber Ronnie Biggs, and apparently said to him, "I was frightened for my life when I heard there was a supergrass in the area." A photograph of Ronnie Biggs and Gaz together was subsequently included in the music video for their single release of the same year, "Going Out". "Going Out" was a success peaking at number five in the UK charts and sold more than 100,000 units. Having taken a short break in 1996, Supergrass returned to Sawmills Studio to work on In It For The Money (released April 1997), produced by the band themselves with John Cornfield. The album was a critical and commercial success, it also has since gone platinum in the UK. But some were confused by the darker sound. The single, "Richard III" reached number two. Subsequent releases, "Sun Hits the Sky" and "Late In The Day" reached numbers 10 and 18 respectively.
Around this time Supergrass also appeared on the front cover of The Big Issue (a UK magazine sold by the homeless as part of a self help iniative), interviewed for the magazine at Heathrow Airport by infamous ex-drug smuggler Howard Marks.
Source: BBC Radio Broadcast.
Sound Quality: Very good stereo MP3 @320kbps.
Genre: Alternative rock, Britpop.
Set: Full set.
Set List:
1. I'd like to know.
2. Caught by the fuzz.
3. Cheapskate.
4. Mansize rooster.
5. Time.
6. Richard III.
7. You can see me.
8. Late in the day.
9. Alright.
10. Condition.
11. Odd.
12. Lose it.
13. Sun hits the sky.
14. Caught by the fuzz.
15. Strange ones.
16. Lenny.
Website: Official HERE, (links into official fansite).
This is Debbie Harry performing live at the Metro Nightclub in Melbourne, Australia back on the 20th March 1990. This was the only gig outside of the UK and USA in 1990 (as I understand) and the set list was a mixture of solo material and Blondie songs.
Debbie released the album Def, Dumb and Blonde in 1989. At this point she reverted from "Debbie" to "Deborah" for her professional name. The first single "I Want That Man" was a hit in Europe, Australia, and on the U.S. Modern Rock Charts. The success of the single propelled the album to number 12 on the UK charts. However, with little promotion from her record company in the US, it peaked at number 123. She followed this up with the ballad "Brite Side" and the club hit "Sweet and Low". "Maybe for Sure", a track originally recorded by Blondie for the Rock and Rule animated film, was the fourth single released from the album in June 1990 to coincide with a UK tour (her second in six months). "Kiss It Better" was also a Top 15 Modern Rock single in the U.S.
From 1989 to 1991, Debbie Harry toured extensively across the world with former (and ongoing) Blondie guitarist Chris Stein, Underworld's Karl Hyde, and future Blondie bassist Leigh Foxx. In July 1991, she played Wembley Stadium with INXS, (I remember the Wembley concert well, she was the main reason I went along and after Chris Stein played what appeared to be an improvised guitar solo introduction Debbie came on stage with whip in hand and delivered a 'rather dominant' set).
Whilst in Melbourne for the 1990 gig she was interviewed by local TV and after the interview piece part of her show was shown live in the TV feature. (see YouTube clip below).
Source: FM Broadcast.
Sound Quality: Very good stereo MP3 @320kbps.
Genre: New wave, pop, rock, punk rock, disco.
Set: Full set.
Set List:
01 - Dreaming (3:44)
02 - Rapture (6:38)
03 - I Want That Man (3:33)
04 - The Tide Is High (3:43)
05 - Heart of Glass (4:24)
06 - Sweet & Low (4:56)
07 - Kiss It Better (4:05)
08 - Call Me (3:40)
09 - Brite Side (4:29)
10 - Hanging On The Telephone (2:33)
11 - French Kissing in the USA (4:29)
Links: Official Blondie HERE, very good Deborah Harry fan site HERE.
Background: When you think of finely tuned guitar-pop, Stockport, UK is not what necessarily comes to mind as a breeding ground for the next big thing. Indie rockers The Kill Van Kulls - now Manchester-based - have only been together for six months and have already garnered attention from the likes of XFM and BBC. While finding inspiration in a disused mill and working through the night to sharpen their upbeat four to the floor, kick heavy pop songs, The Kill Van Kulls plan to release their first single “Fools Wish” via the band’s own label on February 28th.
In the grand tradition of Echo & The Bunnymen, what started out as a three piece plus a drum machine, has evolved into a more robust and lush sounding quartet that’s reminiscent of The Doves, The Cure, Simple Minds and pretty much any John Hughes film soundtrack. More recent artists with the same flair for indie pop and new wave rock that come to mind include Twin Shadow, Brahms, Amazing Baby, and Neon Indian.
Their lead single “Fools Wish” is a lean chunk from the new wave era with driving electro pop and enough sound and texture to envelop venues of all sizes. To complement the “Fools Wish” single, the band has recently released a new music video for their exclusive track “Wooden Heart” which features 70’s surf footage that rightfully fits their Dick Dale trebly guitar tones and washy surreal reverb drenched vocals by front man Gareth Bartlett.
To date, the band has kept live appearances to a minimum. Nevertheless, The Kill Van Kulls have already managed to perform at the In The City music conference, and shared the stage with The Naked and Famous at the Borderline in London and with Mona at the Night and Day in Manchester. XFM recently featured the Kill Van Kulls in their 21 Tips for 2011 poll and they were interviewed on Chris Moyles’ show early this year as part of BBC Introducing. Consider this a warning North America. Stay on your toes with ears wide open, as The Kill Van Kulls plan to make a trip across the Pond, poised to spread their infectious tunes to US and Canadian audiences alike.
2011Candy Says: A memorable band name that will quite possibly become a well known band name in the coming months, we here in the UK have a few musical 'exports' up our sleeves for 2011, this band are one of them. Listen:Fools Wish. Web:MySpace.
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Background: The Saw Doctors are known in Ireland for ridiculously catchy songs and for rocking the road week after week from Galway to Melbourne and, come March 2011, from New York to Las Vegas. They’ve hopped up countless crowds, including at two inaugurations of Maryland governor Martin O’Malley, with upbeat anthems to everyday people.
A fun-loving reputation precedes the band thanks to their zany hit “I Useta Lover” or the recent sneak Irish radio chart-topper, “Red Cortina A Cappella.” But it belies a more reflective side with deep roots, a side sometimes forgotten even by the group’s biggest fans.
“That one-sided perception of the band haunts us, even in our hometown here in Western Ireland,” chuckles Saw Doctors singer and guitarist Leo Moran. “A few months ago, in a pub here, I sang one of my favorite songs, 'Same Oul Town', the title track of our third album. It's about a small town in winter, where everyone knows everyone else's business. Another local singer, who has known us forever, came up and told me, 'That's a lovely song; you should record that!'"
Bittersweet portraits of everyday people and the landscape that surrounds them are what the band does best. The Saw Doctors have a Springsteen-like ability to get at the poignant perspectives of ordinary folks: the lovesick pub regular, the guys on the corner, the wise old woman who greeted all comers with a slice of bread and butter.
This ability flows from the roving group’s strong ties to Tuam and to the lives and stories of the people in it. It’s a town of wits and eccentrics, folks like cartoon artist Squigley McHugh, who humorously sketched the Saw Doctors as superheroes for their stage backdrop. Tuam is known for its gregarious, sometimes overly curious conversationalists. It’s a place where people still pop down to the pub in the afternoon, looking for a pint and a good gossip.
2011Candy Says: Always partial to a listen to the Saw Doctors and The Further Adventures is a fine reminder that beyond their excellent live performances they have laid down some excellent studio material down the years. Listen:Takin The Train. Web:Official.
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Background: OK we are a little late with this one but another band recently contacted us and said the following - Hey, we The Bynars, are a synth-pop band from Boston and are releasing the first single from our debut album on Valentine's Day. If you're not familiar with us yet, please check out the links below. This first song is called "How Does It Feel to Be in Love?" and it'll be available for FREE/name-your-price via our bandcamp site - here is a link for public download, though it won't be active until Feb 14 (it's now of course active HERE ). A really fun, interactive music video for this song will be revealed shortly after the single is released. There will be a 2nd single in March, and the full (self-titled) album will be released in April. Shows/tour coming soon.
2011Candy Says: We have a nice upbeat indie pop song here, that reminds us that Spring is on the way in our part of the world. Looking forward to the album on the strength of this fine song. Listen: How Does It Feel To Be In Love. Web: Official.
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Background: The Carps began their career in Scarborough, Toronto, in 2005. In addition to touring Europe and North America, The Carps have played with The Cool Kids, MIA, Holy F++k, The Hives and Lupe Fiasco among others. Singer Jahmal Tonge is featured on the Mstrkrft album Fist Of God. The Carps have released two EPs to critical acclaim, and have been applauded for their ability to weave genres of all types into a seamless and cohesive sound. In March 2007, The Young & Passionate Days of Carpedia Vol 2.1 was released under Urbnet Records (D-Sisive, Kae Sun, Miles Jones). This was followed by the release of Waves & Shambles in April 2008, containing the featured track “Veronica Belmont” which was named after a well-known San Francisco-based tech journalist. The Carps are currently working on their debut full-length album at DFA studios in New York.
"It's been a long time since we released music. With Neil in Oxford doing his PhD, and me playing drums for MSTRKRFT and Thunderheist, it felt like we'd never get around to that foreboding full length. But here we are. Releasing the entire album as a collection of singles. Two songs a month for 6 months. The first, Bo Jackson/Kelly Gruber are named as such after two amazing athletes who nearly made it, were close to being champs before their careers were ended by injury. I feel like that's what happened to The Carps. We almost made a living off music for a second. This is our swan song, our knee surgery, our post Cadillac-golf club tabloid moment. These songs, some of them four to five years old are likely the most honest songs we've ever recorded. And whatever the outcome, we're just happy to be The Carps." - Jahmal
2011Candy Says: The featured song really surprised me with the mix of synth and a driving rhythm. The vocals are a treat and the whole thing left me wanting more. Listen: Bo Jackson. Web:Urbnet.
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Background: Hailing from Brighton, Ice Black Birds are a music-lovers band. Gaining fans not by hype, or by big label force behind them, but by doing what they do best. Making music. Playing music.
Forthcoming third single ‘22:22’ is, in short, a tune. However, Ice Black Birds’ talents lie not just in catchy hooks and danceable beats (though they have both in spades) but in the dirty guttural guitar riffs and screamed bluesy vocals. It’s reminiscent of early Kings of Leon when the music was raw, fresh and dripping with soul. It’s a flashback also to The Yardbirds or The Stones, a blend of vintage 1960’s blues-rock where fine musicianship and unhinged energy and emotion came together. It’s music that audibly swaggers with untouchable confidence and gusto. For Ice Black Birds, as it was for the likes of The Stones, the swagger is not just on record, but a snaring visible beast live. Ice Black Birds’ charismatic front-man Sam Denniston regularly jumps into the crowd as if that space were an extension of the stage he owns, microphone gripped passionately in hand and a attitude and strut akin to a young Jagger - yet made wholly his own simultaneously.
Their self released debut ‘Ear to the Ground’ and its follow-up, ‘As Birds We’d Be Fine’ (a 7” on London label Laissez Faire Club Records) – saw the band’s videos spread across the web, with Ice Black Birds being hailed as the new ‘purveyors of indie-dance-blues’ and Hugh Stevens of Radio 1 cementing the fact Ice Black Birds were something special indeed by declaring their music "A bright, startling and unusual sound”
‘22:22’ is out on 21st March - a release date intentionally picked; as it marks the bands return from their first SXSW showcase. ‘22:22’ is b/w the track ‘S.S.W’, a jangly, soul laden break-up track that wouldn’t be amiss on the a-side.
2011Candy Says: Not that far along the south coast of the UK from the Beehives secret hideaway is Brighton, which down the years has thrown up some fine bands and artists. This is no nonsense rock that delivers - enjoy! Listen:22-22. Web:MySpace.
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Background: Evocative folk/pop chanteuse Jill Goldberg is set to release her sophomore release, Girl, Polite in April 2011. Produced by Mark Turrigiano (Ingrid Michaelson, Lissy Trullie), the 6-track EP is a musical exploration of identity, transition, and empowerment, drawing inspiration from personal experience and the world around her. Armed with a sound that reflects Sheryl Crow’s pop/rock sensibility, Sara Barielles’ vocal prowess, Basia Bulat’s poignant poetry, and Sarah McLachlan’s graceful delivery, Girl, Polite provides a solid testament to Jill’s burgeoning musicianship and undeniable spirit. Featured tracks include the driving lead single “Not Worth It” and the candidly cathartic title-track.
Over the course of her career, Jill’s music has been featured prominently on the Martha Stewart Show and Ralph Lauren’s Big Pony Collection campaign. Additionally, she is the founder of her own Louar Music, a licensing firm that allows indie musicians to obtain song placement in high-profile television, film, and advertising projects. With her assistance, Jill’s clients have secured synchronization licenses with leading media outlets including MTV, PBS, and Bunim Murray Productions.
In support of Girl Polite, Jill is currently booking tour dates for select performances along the East Coast. Stay tuned for more announcements regarding additional dates.
Jill Goldberg Tour Dates:
March 25 – Cape May, NJ @ Singer-Songwriter Showcase
April 8 – Arlington, VA @ The Apple Store
April 9 – Bryn Mawr, PA @ Milkboy Coffee
April 15 – Boston, MA @ The Apple Store
2011Candy Says:I think we should hear more about Jill as the year progresses, just checkout this song and the above name checks begin to make real sense. Listen: Not Worth It. Web:Official.
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Background: Two worlds collided, chaos ensued, new life was formed. When the dust settled there appeared, The Morning Birds, a hybrid of sonic and spiritual understandings expressed through music, art, and moving images. While forming an uncanny mixture of sounds that embrace unlikely sources, the band’s sound is both familiar and mysterious, groovy yet mellow, profound but fun. It is often times ground breaking. Their powerful bass lines, lush harmonies and soulful strings are complimented by break beats, trumpets, and cascading keys while Jennifer Thorington and Samuel Markus’ vocals unfold into a gentle blend as if Imogen Heap met Andre 3000.
With a fervent love for life and its ever-benevolent grind, The Morning Birds have taken a hold of their career and are ready to take flight and leave the nest. Although music sometimes feels like a small piece of the massive puzzle we call life, The Morning Birds comprehend the greater substance and weight it carries.
The band’s coalescence of meshing voices within the caverns of their music is where both female and male vocals come together for moments where they soar over everything else. As Markus states, “Our goal is to inspire others to find their own creative voices and pursue their dreams with childlike abandon.”
2011Candy Says: This is a little gentler and the soft harmonies really stand out above the rhythmic drumming that seemingly ensures the pace is kept up before we softly drift away to something quite beautiful. Listen:Hearts Desire. Web:Official.
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Background: Quoting from Houses on Lefse records site - “I got laid off from my job at the end of last year and decided I needed a change. My girlfriend put in her two weeks and we moved out to a little cabin in Papaikou, Hawaii. It’s a pretty remote place outside of Hilo (i.e no plumbing/electricity/gas).
We worked for meals during the day cultivating indigenous micro-organisms and learning the basics of sustainable living. We drank showered and cooked with rain water. It was a beautifully simple experience. In our downtime, she would paint and I would record. We’d have to light candles in an effort to save solar power to keep my computer running. We inspired each other a lot out there, and I think it shows on the album. She sings on a lot of the tracks on All Night. The music comes from a place of love and ease. The video for Endless Spring was shot there in our spare time, and the music was sketched out loosely over the course of a few months. We just kind of melted into one person. We were able to keep our heads above water for a few months before we both went broke and moved back to Chicago in April. I put together all the arrangements and field recordings over the next few weeks, and that became All Night. ”
2011Candy Says: An interesting story above that thankfully lead to some great music. Atmospheric and dreamy, 'soak it up' is an excellent taster for 'All Night'. Listen:Soak It Up. Web: Lefse Records.
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Background: Moshi Moshi Records and Liverpool's Hot Club de Paris are proud to announce the release of Free The Pterodactyl 3, twelve tracks of "Lean, mean pop perfection," (Drowned In Sound) The group's North American debut was made available digitally January 18th and features tracks taken from their two widely celebrated previously released 10" EPs With Days Like This As Cheap As Chewing Gum, Why Would Anyone Want To Work?, and The Rise and Inevitable Fall of the High School Suicide Cluster Band.
The combination of releases is somewhat fitting for a band described by the NME as sounding like "3 bands playing at once. Fortunately all of those bands are f++king awesome," Those 3 bands could easily be XTC, Don Caballero and The Minutemen, all playing in perfect harmony. They among other groups are influences upon the trio Hot Club de Paris, composed of Paul Rafferty (vocals/bass/baritone), Matthew Smith guitar/vocals) and Alasdair Smith (drums/vocals).
Self recorded and produced in their Liverpool rehearsal space with frenetic abandon, the three seamlessly combine what has been described as "Spiky scouse pop songs, hollerin' sea shanty vox, baroque post-rock guitar twiddling and abstruse lyrical conceits." (MOJO) "Bizarre bedfellows that turn out to be uncannily compatible."
Already fairly well accomplished in the UK and Europe, they relish the opportunity to bring their craft to audiences in the United States.
2011Candy Says: Hot Club De Paris up the energy levels, and demand you listen up. Just when you thought guitar rock was on the wane this band snaps you back to the reality that said music has a long way to go. Listen:I'm Not In Love Neither Are You. Web:Official.
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Background: Record label Kind Turkey Records contacted us about Trent Fox and The Tenants.
We quote - I wanted to write you about the new 7" I put out on my label by Milwaukee's Trent Fox and the Tenants. It's 5 tracks of garage/pop/rock n roll with swagger. Release date is February 22nd. We're having 4 release shows in Wisconsin over a 3 day period (Madison, Milwaukee, Appleton, and Green Bay).
This is the debut 7" from this Milwaukee band known for running the venerable basement space, The Vault, where touring bands are always sure to stop. They've played a multitude of shows around the Midwest and are planning a tour this summer. Most notably they've played with Nobunny, Holly Golightly, Jaill, Wheels on Fire, Mondo Topless, Lover!, Thomas Function and plenty more!
I'd say I'd recommend it for fans of the Black Lips, Nobunny, Wheels on Fire and the Smith Westerns First LP. It was recorded in Milwaukee by Josh White and mastered by Justin Perkins.
2011Candy Says: Garage rock with a twist of punk and a little bit of rockabilly thrown in and you have this upbeat song that demands you dance along. Listen:Mess Around. Web:MySpace.
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Background: Channeling Fleetwood Mac’s musical stylings with a hint of late-era Beatles, Family of the Year braid catchy melodies, stellar male/female vocals and personal folk tales to create some of the happiest and saddest music you’ve ever heard. The band’s classic musical style has been integrated with a modern fan base that the band continues to create and release new music for.
Like most American families, FOTY come from all over. Brothers Joe and Sebastian Keefe grew up in Wales before staking their claim as locals on the rustic country island Martha’s Vineyard. Christina Schroeter is a misfit of Orange County, CA while across the country southern gentleman James Buckey grew up in Jacksonville, FL.
Musical veterans Joe, Seb and James enjoyed local Boston success in their raw rock ensemble Unbusted. The Keefe brothers switched gears when they created the up-tempo indie-pop band The Billionaires, while James pursued a career in sound engineering. Christina, who spent five years of her childhood trying to weasel out of piano lessons, recently resigned from an entertainment PR firm, where she often rushed clients down red carpets before heading to band practice.
They spent last summer on tour with Edward Sharpe, and the band are currently in Europe where they have a number one radio hit in France. They played a few sold out shows in London a couple of weeks ago and performed on BBC Radio 6. They're finishing up a new album currently.
2011Candy Says: Pop songs can be brilliant, timeless and totally catchy still. Just listen to 'stupidland' - I rest my case. Listen:Stupidland. Web:Official.
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Background: For Greg Susoreny, it's been a long time coming. His debut as a songwriter and recording artist is the fulfillment of a genuine passion carried in his heart over several years. While his arrival in music comes after starting several businesses in other industries, he is not ending something; he's just getting started. With the sharp contemplation and adult contemporary/country sound that defines his music, time spent listening to Greg feels like talking over beers with Kenny Chesney and Don Henley. All insight, and no hangover.
Born in Northwest Indiana and raised in Dallas, Texas, Susoreny is the epitome of a good American man. Like good American men do, after graduating from college, he went to work, but not in music. With his business degree from Indiana University School of Business, Susoreny founded a technical staffing company in Dallas, owned a general contracting company in Miami Beach, and owned a small cafe in Las Colinas, Texas. A true entrepreneur, Greg has an impeccable eye for opportunity. As he watched musicians play at his cafe, he recognized his opportunity to pursue his passion for music, and his dream to start his own record label. It wasn't long after he started working on his songwriting that he founded Truth Records. He signed his first artist in 2001 after moving to Miami Beach, Florida.
Working with his first Truth Records artist was a good motivator for him, and as they worked on his album, Greg's desire to write and record his own music came calling. "I've always been a poet. Rhymes come easy to me, and I can clearly hear the songs in my head even though I don't play an instrument. I have an Arranger's brain and really enjoy the entire recording process." Original songs, from the heart and head, are a natural fit for Susoreny, who has always worn his heart on his sleeve and held honesty as his mantra. Being at the musical helm is also the right fit for his entrepreneurial spirit. Not only did he found Aqua Blue Records, the label on which his debut album, Ramblin Man, is released, but he directly managed every aspect of the creation, production, and release of the record.
2011Candy Says: Greg Susoreny oozes style, class and quality. Play him loud and impress your friends, great music for driving or chilling to. Listen:Ramblin Man. Web:Official.
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Background: Acclaimed LA-based 21 year-old songwriter Lelia Broussard has been selected by Rolling Stone for their “Do You Wanna Be A Rock & Roll Star” Contest.” Announced on February 14th nationwide in the USA on Late Night With Jimmy Fallon Lelia is one of sixteen unsigned artists chosen by the editors of Rolling Stone. Voters can rate the bands by going to http://www.rollingstone.com/ choose the cover and eight artists will be eliminated by March 16th with only eight artists proceeding to the next round. The final round will see the last two artists compete in a battle of the bands on stage at the Bonnaroo Music Festival with the ultimate winner being the first unsigned act to ever appear on the cover of Rolling Stone and will also receive a recording contract from Atlantic Records.
Lelia who just finished an appearance at the Hotel Café in Los Angeles is supporting her fourth independently released record, Masquerade. A deluxe edition CD version with bonus tracks (as well as the original ten tracks in the November 2010 digital release) will be available on April 5th through various independent record stores and on-line retailers in the United States.
2011Candy Says: Lelia remains a firm favorite of the Beehive and we will be delighted if she does well in the Rolling Stone competition, either way hopefully a good number of people will discover her in the coming weeks, that's the least she deserves. Listen:Alone On A Train. Web:Official.
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Background: Ontario independent pop act The Elwins are a part of a vital practice of D.I.Y. pop eccentrics whose '60s swoon-worthy melodies unabashedly ignore current trends in indie music. A trio that sounds more like four or five reminds one of exactly what can be very good about rock and roll; simplicity and solid songwriting backed by some naturally talented young musicians makes The Elwins a true gem among other independent artists.
The Elwins recently returned from Seattle where they were writing and recording their debut LP to be released in spring of 2011. Produced by Bill Moriarty (Dr. Dog, Man Man) and Ryan Hadlock (Stephen Malkmus, Metric, Islands, Blonde Redhead), and mixed by L. Stu Young (Prince, Sum-41), this record promises to be the fresh sound the Canadian indie music scene needs.
Matthew Sweeney’s voice, unrefined and appetizing, melds well with the quirky and memorable lyrics, at the same time leading the band with guitar riffs that stay with you long after hearing them. Travis Stokl, a pop savvy drummer, co-writes the songs with Sweeney, bringing his catchy rhythm that undoubtedly leaves toes-a-tapping. The bassist and longtime friend Feurd backs things up with a solid moustache.
The Elwins' charm and blissful attitude is a unique addition to the Canadian music scene. Their self-titled EP has sold a multitude of copies, garnering North American and European audiences to follow. Time spent with the boys can range from a peculiar conversation about dynamics and chord structures, to a spontaneous improvised performance, notably watching them switch instruments effortlessly. They've played at festivals such as Halifax Pop Explosion and Canadian Music Week. This March will bring their American debut, playing shows in New York City and Austin during SXSW. They have shared the stage with friends Toyko Police Club as well as The Coast, Maylee Todd, The Bicycles and Ruby Coast.
2011Candy Says: They put a smile on my face and a lift in my step. A little quirky and a whole lot splendid. Listen: Dear, Oh My. Web:MySpace.
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Background: “A psychedelic eruption in the factory.” That’s how Edinburgh’s new garage band on the block, FOUND describe their sound, which ranges from urgent, Wire-influenced punk to Joe Meek sci-fi pop, cheapo bossa nova and near acid house grooviness within the space of a few tracks.
"Factorycraft", their first album for Chemikal Underground, introduces us to the trio’s grubby world: rarely does a debut album have an opening statement as striking as urban love story Anti-Climb Paint. And throughout the album, the title is reflected in mechanically ticking beats, references to assembly lines and precise, brutal guitar stabs.
“[Singer] Ziggy used to work in a factory in the Borders,” say the band. 'He observed that the most exotic ideas are often FOUND lying amongst the swarf of the factory floor. We liked the idea of turning manual labour in to fine art, hence "factorycraft".'
Appropriately enough, the album was recorded in one productive week on an industrial estate in Glasgow, at Chemikal Underground’s own Chem 19 studio. While they were working on it, they were also busily building a sound installation called Cybraphon based on a 19th century orchestrion – a project that later won them a BAFTA. Because aside from being a band, FOUND are also hugely creative art collective.
First meeting at art school in Aberdeen, Ziggy Campbell, Kev Sim and Tommy Perman first began collaborating as an art group, The FOUND Collective, who played improvised music at their exhibition openings, “to avoid talking to people.” When they started being booked for gigs proper, the name stuck.
FOUND are giving away a free track every Friday until the album’s release. That's a lot of Fridays so it's a lot of free music. They’re giving away remixes they've done for other people, remixes other artists have done for them, choice selections from their back catalogue and unheard gems.
2011Candy Says: We finish with a band that reminds us that 'north of the border' in Scotland, there is no shortage of musical talent. Found are coming - you have been warned. Listen:You're No Vincent Gallo. Web:Official.
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