Jesca Hoop - Live in Manchester, UK - 2010 (IA)

From the Internet Archive (IA) this is Jesca Hoop live at Band On The Wall, a venue in Manchester, England, back on Monday 24th May 2010.

This is what the Manchester venues website had to say about Jesca prior to the gig - Jesca Hoop was born in Southern California to strict Mormon parents. She grew up singing traditional folk tunes in four-part harmony, but soon broke away from this background, becoming a homesteader and working with children. As a nanny for Tom Waits and Kathleen Brennan’s three children, Hoop gained both musical experience and notoriety; Waits said of Jesca, 'Her music is like going swimming in a lake at night'. Following exposure through radio station KCRW, Jesca toured with Polyphonic Spree, Mark Knopfler, Andrew Bird and Elbow – with Guy Garvey also dueting with Hoop on her (then) latest acclaimed album Hunting My Dress.

In addition to this we can add (from Wiki) As a result of meeting Tom Piper, the touring manager of the band Elbow, Hoop moved to Manchester, England in 2008. Initially she found it difficult to adjust "as a California girl, I find it hard to stay under that canopy of cloud". After settling in the Chorlton area of the city, Hoop spent 18 months recording new material for the album “Hunting My Dress” which was released in 2010. She had parked "a lorry trailer in my back garden that we use as an extension (...) where I go to write". In the same year she signed with the US-based label Vanguard Records.[8] It was followed by the “Snowglobe E.P.” in 2011, which consisted of a handful tracks recorded prior to her move to the UK. Hoop described them as "folk songs" and the EP received a degree of critical acclaim. The following year she released “The House That Jack Built” and in 2014 “Undress”; a re-interpretation of songs recorded four years ago.

Recording Details: Source DPA4060>Chruch 9100>R09 (48kHz/24 bit) Lineage Card reader>Wavelab>Isotope RX>CDWave>FLAC.

Sound Quality: Very good (clean and highly enjoyable).

Set List:

1. Seed of Wonder
2. Whispering Light
3. Feast of the Heart
4. Four Dreams
5. Money
6. Angel Mom
7. The Kingdom
8. Phonograph
9. Moon Rock Needle
10. Out the Back Door
11. Tulip
12. Murder of Birds
13. (chat)
14. Hunting my Dress
15. (chat)
16. Enemy
17. Love and Love Again
18. Storm [off mic]

Website: Official Here.

Comments: There are FLAC, Ogg Vorbis and mp3 download files, along with the streaming material over at the Internet Archive (here).

Stream Below:

A Couple Of Good Ones: Murder Shoes - Rissy

Murder Shoes - Nineteeneightyone.

Bio - Sometimes, it really does boil down to who you know. Shortly after Derek Van Gieson first moved to Minneapolis, he met fellow guitarist Chris White through an ex-post-hardcore-punk pal. For a year or so, Derek and Chris stockpiled hundreds of songs. The songs ran the gamut of 60s pop/garage nuggets, gothic folk, chaotic post-punk, 80s funk and R&B, country/western, shoegaze, rockabilly, and surf. 

It could have been a real hot mess, but Derek brought Tess Weinberg in to the picture and she tied the whole thing together with her sultry cross-genre vocals. They further refined their sound as a trio and just when they thought they had it figured out, bassist Tim Heinlein and drummer Elliot Manthey brought the volume, power, and muscle. Inside of a year as a quintet, Murder Shoes recorded and released three EPs, a full length album, and went on tour. After many adventures in the studio and live, the band has refined the eclectic nature of their sound, which can now accurately be described as “Murder Shoesy.”

On November 6, Land Ski Records will release “Daydreaming,” the full-length debut from Minneapolis, MN indie rock band, Murder Shoes.

The band at times remind me of Blondie circa their first album, however that's just part of the story. There is a harder edge to the guitar driven music and vocals are if anything smoother, the band drift from post punk into surf rock, and plenty of other places. As debut albums go this is a solid collection of songs, the band have done themselves proud.

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Rissy - Sunset Raining.

Background words - It took barely 10 minutes to write the words and vocal melody, but two years of massaging and marshalling the various creative forces to turn ‘Sunset Raining’, a new electronic-pop tune by seasoned newcomer Rissy, into a reality.

“I arrived at the studio, listened to the track just once... and started writing madly,” says Rissy of her first acquaintance with the catchy creation from the genius duo L D R U and Yahtzel.

“I wrote the whole song within 10 minutes and we recorded it shortly after,” says Rissy. “It was a very natural, very easy process.” Sunset Raining is about crazy, blissful love. "Get high up on your platform baby" meaning, shine like you should.

Rissy’s strong, upbeat voice flows like honey over Carmada’s spiky electronic backdrop, thoughtful sound sculpting that works a treat. That was 2013. So why the delay in releasing the song? “There were a few entanglements that we needed to undo, and a couple of musical options that took time to explore. It had to be right for me.”

Rissy, slim and dark-haired, was determined not to compromise artistically. ”It wasn’t an easy time for an impatient soul. But I’m stoked with the result and that A&R Records is handling my first commercial label release.” The singer/songwriter from Sydney’s northern beaches crafts her electronic tunes of relentless optimism using a staple of compelling percussive sounds and engaging pop- driven melodies. “I usually start with hearing the chords and beats. That gives me the whole vibe of the song, which then writes the melody and lyrics.”

She has been collaborating with some of EDM's finest producers including Carmada (AUS), L D R U (AUS), Sam Roberts (AUS), Pretty Visitors (AUS) and Hotsauce (USA). “Sunset Raining” by Rissy will be released 30th of October 2015.

This is a really nice song. The gentle electro backing is just right and Rissy has a very distinctive and pleasing voice. It deserves to be heard.

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Sunday Alternative: Sin Cos Tan - ALXA - Jade The Moon - Sweet Mix Kids ft. Pikachunes

Sin Cos Tan - Ten Years (single from Smile Tomorrow Will Be Worse -EP).

Background - Finnish synthpop duo Sin Cos Tan shares new single ‘Ten Years’, a new EP is also set for a release in October. Synth-pop duo Sin Cos Tan have already three albums, a host of packed-out festival appearances and a big dose of musical experience. Finnish duo consists of 2 already established musicians: producer-DJ Jori Hulkkonen (who has previously put his magical producer hands on works also with Tiga, Pet Shop Boys´ Chris Lowe, Jose Gonzalez...) and Juho Paalosmaa, songwriter and vocalist also from Villa Nah who released one of the best albums of 2010 ‘Origin’. 
The Sin Cos Tan duo received huge international critical acclaim for their self-titled debut album and hit single “Trust” back in 2012, including a nomination for ‘Critics Choice of Album of The Year’ at the Finnish Emma-Awards. The boys chose not to rest on their laurels and released only 10 months later their successful follow-up album ‘Afterlife’ including hit single Limbo. Third album "Blown Away" was released fall 2014 with singles "Love Sees No Colour" and "Lifestyle" and "Heart Of America". 

From their self-titled debut album in 2012 onwards, Juho Paalosmaa and Jori Hulkkonen have established a classic partnership within the duo-format, great songwriting and cool synth sounds. With three critically acclaimed albums already out and new more clubby EP on the way, Sin Cos Tan is at the peak of their creative powers. No shortage of drama, intensity nor sheer pop perfection – this duo delivers.

'Ten Years' has a dance feel, that drifts into an atmospheric synth pop song, and keeps on developing, until the final note.

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ALXA - Let Go.

Background - With a wealth of material in many styles lined up for 2016, ALXA begins her musical journey with the single 'Let Go'  from the forthcoming ‘Lost E.P.’ a collection of electronic based tracks.

A voice, which at the tender age of 20 has already been compared to both Amy Winehouse and Adele could be both a blessing and a curse. Yet within the incredible voice of ALXA you get that sense of pain, and effortlessness that you got with Amy, plus a vocal range and power that hints at Adele but with a soulful, rhythm and blues undertone and inspiration. If there is a voice capable of trying to carry the burden of these lofty comparisons its surely ALXA’s. 

ALXA is a 20 year old singer/songwriter based in Islington, North London. She has been singing from a very young age, and from early on can remember being inspired by an eclectic range of jazz, opera, soul and house music. Describing her music in one word as ‘passionate’ ALXA bases her song writing on real life stories, different places and stages in her life. ALXA refers to her music and style as ‘human’, in other words she connects with the feelings and emotions of her listeners through the common medium of music.

ALXA has a remarkable voice and range, and she uses it to full effect on 'Let Go'. Comparisons there may be, however, she can clearly put her own mark on a song, another one of those that leaves me wanting to hear more.


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Jade The Moon  - U Take Care.

Background - The lyrics for "U Take Care" can actually be perceived in so many ways. This track was conceived after a 3 day Foals listening binge and recorded loosely into a voice note similar to our previous track. The track was built around the original voice note recording, which  actually makes several appearances on the final final production of the song.  At first listen 'U Take Care' may sound like a love song, but if you listen closely its got a mean streak….

We like to attempt to create honest music, letting the listeners in as to interact and guide us in our music creation.

We featured Jade The Moon a few months back, 'U Take Care' just seems to good to ignore. The soundtrack intrigues, the fine vocals contrast with their smoothness, even with a mean streak in the lyrics.

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Sweet Mix Kids ft. Pikachunes - The Whole World.

Background - Prominent New Zealand DJ group Sweet Mix Kids present their new single, The Whole World, featuring Wellington/Melbourne synth-pop prince Pikachunes. 'The Whole World' is a collaboration between Pikachunes and Sweet Mix Kids (Warner NZ). It's a genre mashing beast the guys recorded between NZ, Paris and LA late last year. Pikachunes is the indie pop musical project of Miles McDougall (i.e. Miles G. Loveless), a songwriter, musician and producer based in Wellington, New Zealand. Trained in jazz, for McDougall "a typical track features one or two synths, a 70's analog bass line, and a series of reverberated vocal harmonies, all driven by an atypical disco beat.".

He founded Pikachunes as a solo project in 2009, after a skateboarding incident left him with plates and pins in his arm. At the time he was studying Jazz Performance on drums and working towards a Bachelor of Music. While his arm healed McDougall turned to digital composition and production to keep himself occupied. According to McDougall, "The name came to me whilst I was in hospital under heavy amounts of morphine for pain. As cliche as it sounds I woke up with the name in my head and it stuck." In August 2015 McDougall signed with Sydney record label, Monday Records.

A great funky rhythm drives this song forward, with stand out vocals. Talking of which the repetitive lines almost become a musical instrument in themselves.

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Saturday Songs: August Wells - The Sea Birds - Angus C Crowley

August Wells - Come On In Out Of That Night.

Background Info - 'Come On In Out Of That Night' is the new single by August Wells and was released on September 4th on FIFA ('Forever In Financial Arrears') records.

A musical project formed in New York by Dublin native Ken Griffin (Rollerskate Skinny, Kid Silver and Favourite Sons) and New York pianist John Rauchenberger, August Wells teamed up with the Cork based independent label earlier this year for the release of the sumptuous 'Here In the Wild' single and that partnership continues for what is the perfect follow up.

 'Come On In Out Of That Night' once again has the deep lilt of Griffin's voice combined with the sound of Rauchenbergers piano arrangements, add to that Louis Schwadron (Radio Head & Grizzly Bear) and Griffins uplifting brass arrangements which are accented by fat choruses contrasting with the deep twisted vocal. The result is a an elegant three minutes of lustrous music tinged with melancholia yet bathed in hope offering a real slice of the alternative.

August Wells recently appeared on Ireland's RTE 2's 'Other Voices (excerpt attached) and have just completed an Irish in support of their forthcoming release. The are currently recording their second album which is due for release in Feb 2016.

This is to good to miss and I am grateful to Eddie at FIFA for bringing it to our attention. Everything about this song cries quality, superb vocals and music, and the vital ingredient - a passion for delivering great music.

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The Sea Birds - Am I Wasting My Time.

Background - The debut single 'Am I Wasting My Time' from Melbourne band The Sea Birds is a stunning glimpse into the beautifully crafted repertoire of this illustrious five-piece. The group began their musical voyage into the rich musical landscape of indie pop sound in late 2014. Comprised of dual lead vocalists Lara Wentworth and Loic Mamet and primary songwriter Mike Amarant, every member plays a part in the execution and production of ideas, including the rhythm section Lucas Wentworth and James Duplessis who have only very recently just joined the group.

The arrangements of Am I Wasting My Time draw heavily on the band’s love of indie pop. The sweetly gentle melodies with shades of alt country rock and nuanced guitar work pair flawlessly with the melancholic sentiments of the song’s lyrics. The outfit felt this track that captured the band’s ‘sweet but sad’ musical sensibility, embracing a ‘good earthy, no frill musical approach and is easily reproduced in a live setting.’

When writing songs band member Mike Amarant likes to get lost in his creation. “The great thing about writing songs is the endless artistic license and infinite exploration of ideas and music that you can bring to the process,” he says. Likewise, when crafting Am I Wasting my Time Mike wanted it to have a universal message that anyone who’s loved or been loved can relate to. “The song belongs to no- one and everyone,” he says. “It is easy to relate to the fragility and uncertainty that every new relationship brings. That is what is at the heart of the song.”

The track was recorded with David McCluney who has engineered and produced for a who’s who of independent Australian bands for more than three decades, including Skipping Girl Vinegar, Mick Harvey (The Bad Seeds, The Birthday Party) and Nick Cave. The band also enlisted the help from Tony Floyd (Black Sorrows, Gurrumul) for the single. The ensemble clicked and the recording was nailed quickly. The band’s approach to recording is all about being lean and purposeful when they hit the studio. “You can still be creative and have fun…but it costs a lot less to do this before you get to the studio,” says Mike. “Recording Am I Wasting My Time was a quick kill in the studio.”

The Sea Birds has evolved slowly but steadily, and they want to continue that evolution. Their strength lies in the cross-over potential to be many things due to the diversity of the group’s members and influences. Loic Mamet has moved over from Mauritius to further develop his musical style and vocal approach, Lara Wentworth comes from a broad chorale, music theatre and popular music background and Mike Amarant is the group’s chief songwriter and guitarist with a lot of ongoing ideas and completed pieces that he feeds through to the group.

'Am I Wasting My time' is an upbeat indie pop song, with a leaning towards alt country both musically and in the harmonies. The other four songs in this release, are a little gentler, and definitely have more of a alt country feel. As debut's go, this is a very good selection of songs, (website here).

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Angus C Crowley - October.

Background - Angus C-Crowley is an alt-folk poet with a head of soul and sweet harmony. An acoustic wordsmith constantly caught between two Pauls - Dempsey and Kelly - with Jeff Buckley and Evan Dando whispering into his ears. 

Angus C-Crowley has always seen music as a vehicle to share his poetry and a platform to explore his understanding of the world. Vocally and lyrically driven in the classic folk tradition, with the honest accompaniment of a guitar, ukulele or banjo, with each song he aims to strike the balance between aesthetics and substance and create a moment of pause with his audience.

‘October’ is a soulful acoustic drift that will slowly soak its way into your ear, from the 30th October, 2015. It is the debut release for Angus C-Crowley, who has been tinkering away at his melodies and harmonies for the past decade while lapping up the sunshine on the NSW Mid-North Coast.

‘October’ was originally conceived over 10 years ago while Angus C-Crowley was at university, recording with a friend in his parent’s garage. Revisited and refined this year for release under the guidance of producer Matt O’Connor from the A&R Department, the track displays a developing maturity in Angus C-Crowley’s sound while still retaining the honesty and simplicity of the original with stripped back instrumentation and smooth layered vocals.

The song explores the fickle nature of sleep and dreams, from the effortless highway nod to the evening struggle to ‘lead’ your mind to rest, and the general malaise born from the inevitable stocktaking of life as the year comes to an end. “It came together from a series of scattered thoughts on receipts and in sketchbooks over time, that I slowly weaved into a melody I had been toying with for a while.” – Angus C-Crowley.

'October' gives the impression that the singer is pondering and thinking, before singing each verse. This adds to the overall feeling of a personal song, and that we are allowed to share, some of the authors thoughts. Calmly delivered, both the stripped back feel, and engaging vocals, make for a fine song.

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Friday Five: Liphemra - Peru - Little Death - The Noted - Apothek.

Liphemra - 'did u cry'.

Background - Los Angeles based Liphemra (comprised of Liv Marsico, Trey Findley, Miles Gray, Chris Parise) have just dropped their first official release 'did u cry'. Both dark and hypnotising in it's repetition, the track manifest an aesthetic unrivalled by any other project coming out of LA right now.

"You break up... Never talk again. You just want to know if they cried." - Liv

'did u cry' teases an up-coming EP by the same name which is set for an early March release via LA-based label Future Gods.

A wonderfully powerful background sound, gives way to Liv Marsiso's emotionally charged vocals, that dance above the ever changing soundtrack. A real alternative that works so well.

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Peru (the band) - I Need You.

Background - Great music can take you places.  So, perhaps it’s appropriate that Peru the Band shares its name with one of the most breathtaking landscapes on Earth.  The soul-infused indie group has brilliantly combined elements of classic Motown, jazz and blues to create a pleasingly unforgettable sound. 

Peru the Band is set to release their highly anticipated debut EP, Ordinary People, on December 14, 2015. “Ordinary People is an inviting and warm listen,” declares The Huffington Post, “often peppered with vintage-style horns and piano….with Motown touches abound.”

Over the past several months, Peru has generated notable buzz for their songs “I Need You,” “Forever” and “My Lady.”  Established by accident in 2014, Peru the Band is comprised of Long Island natives, Michael Desmond (vocals/guitar), Tom Costa (bass) and Jay Scalchunes (drums). All virtuosic musicians, the three began writing songs together while playing with other touring bands. And, the rest, as they say is history. 

Collectively, the members of Peru have toured with groups like Taking Back Sunday and Bayside, and have shared the stage with artists from One Republic, Hanson and Jacks Mannequin. Additionally, they’ve been showcased in festival line-ups for Warped Tour, Taste of Chaos, Bamboozle and others. 

Peru recorded Ordinary People with Dan Gluszak, drummer for Envy On The Coast and Times of Grace (Roadrunner Records) and Mike Watts of Vudu Studios (The Pixies, The Dear Hunter, As Tall As Lions, Brand New). Catch Peru the Band in New York at Pianos on December 1, and at Bowery Electric on December 8 and December 15.

Nice jangly guitars and rhythm, support the 'just as nice' vocals and harmonies, and then the horns take it to another level. This is one super cool band.

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Little Death - Hotel Tokyo.

Background - Perth’s Little Death are the brainchild of enigmatic singer-songwriter Ryan Carson and have already begun with a narrative that most musicians only dream of and even more spend their recording careers attempting to achieve.

After finding production inspiration in the critically acclaimed Placebo album ‘Meds’, Carson took a wild chance by sending his demos to the renowned producer behind ‘Meds’, Dimitri Tikovoi (Placebo, The Horrors). Wildly curious from what he heard, Tikovoi invited Carson to record his debut album with him in London. Now sitting on a completed body of work that was mixed by Neil Comber (30 Seconds To Mars) and engineered by Andrew Hughes (Florence and the Machine), the soft single ‘Valleys’ appeared in June but is now spearheaded by current single and flagship track ‘Hotel Tokyo’.

Just launched to a sweaty hometown reception at Amplifier Bar, ‘Hotel Tokyo’ showcases Carson’s love of dark guitar driven alt-rock with a keen pop sensibility that has seen the track start appearing on playlists around the country. Little Death are armed and almost ready to announce the release of an emotional and brutally honest album that intertwines the intricate and delicate nature of Carson’s lyrics with the brazen and uninhibited music he backs them with.

There's more than enough going on in this song to keep the listeners attention, as competing styles come together in a coherent manner, whether its just vocal over drums, or the full on onslaught of alt rock at it's finest.


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The Noted - Hello (from the album 'Not Far Away').

Background - The Noted is an original band based out of Portland, OR featuring Daniel Work (piano/keys/vocals/acoustic guitar/songwriter), Jeff Koch (electric guitar), Mike Snyder (drums/percussion), John Dwyer (bass/vocals) and Angela Baldino (vocals/percussion). 

Our music is most often compared to Collective Soul, The Fray, Paul McCartney, Elvis Costello, Train, Tom Petty, Fleetwood Mac and many other amazing artists.

The band say 'Our music is diverse, highly original and great for the whole family'.

'Not Far Away' was produced, written and recorded, by the band. Vocals and harmonies really are quite something, and the variety within the songs very refreshing. 'Hello' is a good reflection of what musically, lays in store for the listener.


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Apothek - Family.

Background - Apothek is a child of its time. Though with any genetic dichotomy, this is one that spans generations. It embodies nostalgia and being part of tradition – an amalgam of parents, grandparents, siblings and cousins. Family, to be more precise…

Their genesis begins with debut single ‘Family’, and with it, a sound that could arguably only exist today. But beyond the cropped rhythms and synthetic symphonies, there’s a sense of classic melody that feels strangely inherent. Perhaps it stems from Apothek’s somewhat unlikely pairing; combining the freewheeling spontaneity of singer/songwriter Morten Myklebust with the more premeditative musings of producer Nils Martin Larsen. It’s a union of celebrated synthesis and one that straddles the divide between electronic and organic.

Lyrically speaking, ‘Family’ recites random states of consciousness – observing the dysfunctional, and at times destructive, quandary of family life. Stream the track below... Though still in their musical infancy, the Oslo-based duo sit alongside some of Norway’s finest, having collaborated with experimental jazz supergroup Jaga Jazzist and embarking their first ever live shows with pop wunderkind Susanne Sundfør.

Fresh from a buzzed (The Line Of Best Fit, Crack Magazine, Ja Ja Ja) and beyond-capacity showcase at Norway’s renowned Øya Festival, Apothek are once again invited to join Sundfør on tour; confirmed for a string of UK/EU dates this October/November.

'Family' is released today. The soundtrack commences in a gentle intriguing manner and vocals match the style and flow of the piece. Then a beautiful symphonic soundtrack sends the song soaring to a wonderful place before vocals take control again. Exceptional.

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Double Delights: $omeone feat Kite - Lydia Schubert

$omeone feat Kite - Hollow.

Those background words - When the music producer, $omeone, recently signed on Gotta Records, meets the sensitivity of the genius vocalist named Kite.

Kite is an award-winning Liverpool-based, Cumbrian-born songstress. Her debut EP ‘The Bed of The Brook’ was released in 2011 and led her on to play festivals such as Radio 1’s Big Weekend, Kendal Calling, Solfest and Ireby as well as gaining her a spot to play across the pond at Dewey Beach Music Conference in Delaware. Her first single ‘The Water’ was self-released in 2013 and has had extensive radio play including BBC Cumbria, BBC Merseyside and BBC Radio 2 as well as having been playlisted by BBC 6 Music’s Tom Robinson. Since her trip to the US in 2012 Kite has been working closely with Brooklyn-based collective Mason Jar Music (Feist, Wood Brothers, Josh Garrels, Alicia Keys).

Lot's of recognition and words of praise, already written for Kite here in the UK, and on the strength of this song, it's not hype, it's quality.


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Lydia Schubert - This Golden Hour.

The story so far - “I like to write songs that can read like stories.” 

Lydia Schubert was born in Perth during the eighties or nineties; depending on what mood she’s in and credits her musical prowess with a desire to tell stories. She is a mythologist and puts herself in the first person of the song. 

“But that doesn’t always mean the songs are about me” 

Lydia emerged from the dusty plains of Australia’s West, playing intimate venues in Fremantle and the surrounding locality to small and attentive audiences, where she cut her teeth as a contemporary poet/singer. She has developed an acute understanding of the ‘song’ form and its potential to articulate that which is buried deep in the soul, hidden beneath the small talk of the world. 

Lydia made her debut early on in the year with the single Jesse, a ballad about the gunslinger Jesse James, which earned radio play across the country. She now follows up with ‘This Golden Hour’, a song inspired by a dream and using the namesake of one of her favourite writers, Tennessee Williams.

This is a charming 'rootsy' song which gently builds as Lydia sings and a story unfolds. Simple as that? Quality often is.

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Another Genre Mix: Before The Flood - herMajesty - Still Parade

Before the Flood - I Can't Wait For You.

Background words - Before the Flood's 2nd LP (Hole in the Sky - 2015) is heavy on vocal harmonies, layered strings and deep percussion and bass. Electronic elements and synths add to the rich, and at other times ethereal soundscapes BTF creates through a long-awaited and eclectic 14 song journey. BTF's style and performances are constantly evolving but they continue to draw comparisons to Wilco, The Shins, The Weakerthans & Skydiggers.

Before the Flood formed in 2005, and the line-up has fluidly performed with between 4 and 7 members.  The backbone of the band has been strong, diverse song writing and rich, textured arrangements. Bars Wire and Wood (2008) had two singles (the title track & The Halls) that charted on college radio across Canada.

Over the last seven years BTF has been honing their craft performing through Southern Ontario - with 14 appearances at The Legendary Horseshoe Tavern (Toronto), 15 at The Moonshine Cafe (Oakville), regulars at NXNE and various summer festivals.

This is a solid album with songs that drift somewhere between folk, country rock and a few other places. All show off the bands well developed skills, and the featured track is a fine intro for those unfamiliar with BTF.

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herMajesty - My Body Your Mind.

Background - Art rock project herMajesty plans to self-release their new EP “My Body Your Mind” on November 4th and gig the north east in support throughout fall and winter. “My Body Your Mind” reflects an eclectic indie-glam sound that began with their July 2014 release “Crystals” featuring Fountains of Wayne guitarist Jody Porter’s psychedelic stamp. April’s Bowie-esque “Fashion Trance” followed  February’s “Days Turn to Nights.”
 
“My Body Your Mind” is the story of an immigrant son at a point in time where the experience of migration and dislocation and the desire to love and survive resonates in, and in spite of, the images from a 24-hour news cycle replete with negation, death, and pandering politicos. "My Body Your Mind” implies that the experience of emotional and physical trauma is grafted in memory and skin; that the fallout is, at once, fleeting and permanent, current and timeless, visceral and physical - like the song itself.

“My Body Your Mind” incorporates an ancient Middle Eastern instrument called the oud to amplify the immigrant son’s blues. The use of the oud and bouzouki flow in and out of the dramatic, mysterious wall of sound that integrates psych rock, new wave and world influences. herMajesty has been putting out music consistently since forming in NYC several years ago. They’ve shared the stage with acts like B-52s, Tom Tom Club, Boxer Rebellion, Say Hi To Your Mom, and received airplay on taste maker stations like KEXP-FM in Seattle and WFUV-FM in NYC.

herMajesty consists of JP (vocals, rhythm guitars, programming), David Leatherwood (guitars, backup vocals), Joan Chew (bass), Dov Manski (keyboards) and Konrad Meissner (drums, percussion). Keyboards on “Crystals” were handled by Dayle Raymond Jellyman.

Art Rock has become a crowded genre, it's one that has thrown up a few exciting artists, sadly there have been a few to many, pale imitations of Arcade Fire. herMajesty expand well outside the genre, and the featured track, shows off a talented band, with plenty of ideas of their own, and I feel comparisons with others would be an unfair distraction.


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Still Parade - Concrete Vision.

Background - Still Parade is the project and artistic expression of songwriter, producer Niklas Kramer. Kramer launched Still Parade with debut single 'Actors' on 20th May 2013 and for a long while his identity was clouded by secrecy and mystique. This decision was taken with a view to letting the music alone do the talking. And that it did. Following 'Actors', Kramer delivered extremely well received singles as well as the 'Fields' EP that saw Still Parade continue to build it's following online amongst the tastemakers of the blogosphere.

During this period between the end of 2013 and 2014 the identity of Still Parade's founder and driving creative force was gradually revealed as Niklas Kramer, a young producer and artist basing himself out of Germany's creative hub of Berlin. It also saw Still Parade begin to play festivals and headline shows across Europe in cities including London, Paris, Amsterdam as well as their home town of Berlin.

This period also saw Kramer become interested in experimenting with new recording techniques after receiving a tape recorder as a gift from his father. His previous output had all been recorded within fully equipped professional studios with experienced producers, resulting in a slick dream folk sound. However, only now was he realizing that he preferred the sound he was able to generate by himself within his own tiny Berlin apartment recording on that very tape machine.

Now armed with a collection of brand new songs Still Parade will be sure to leave behind the dream folk, yacht rock sound that became synonymous with Kramer's early output. His debut album self recorded and produced with the use of his tape machine, is set for release in 2016, and it's fair to say Kramer has successfully managed to harness influences from his all time heroes Todd Rundgren and Crosby, Stills & Nash.

I like this song. It is unpretentious, has an openly declared nod to his musical heroes, and yet has plenty of the artists own skills and ideas. As I said, I like it!

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Gussie Clarke - From The Foundation (Reggae Anthology)

Various Artists - Gussie Clarke - From The Foundation (Reggae Anthology).

Press Release - VP Records' vintage imprint 17 North Parade opens its vaults to present a new reggae anthology from one of the most influential Jamaican producers and businessmen Gussie Clarke. On Oct 9th, 2015, 17 North Parade will release a comprehensive double-disc compilation From The Foundation, spanning Gussie Clarke's catalogue of hit productions from the 1970s until today, accompanied with a DVD that takes an in-depth look of the man behind the controls. All the music is re-mastered and coupled with deluxe packaging and extensive liner notes. In addition, a vinyl companion piece (carrying the same name) will be available the following week (Oct 16) that features exclusive tracks not available on the CD and digital version.

In the early 1970s, Clarke's breakthrough success with deejay-style vocalists like Big Youth and I Roy put him at the forefront of the new rebel sound because he was able to blend this style with more instrumental records. The first portion of the anthology includes a previously unreleased version (featuring Big Youth) of Clarke's 1972 debut U-Roy's "The Higher The Mountain" plus a never-before-heard extended version of Dennis Brown & Lennie Hibbert's "To The Foundation."The set carries into more classics like Augustus Pablo's "No Entry," Hortense Ellis' "Unexpected Places" as well as the influential 1981 Mighty Diamond's hit "Pass the Kouchie." 

The second half of the collection delves into Clarke's productions during the late 1980s when he launched his own Music Works studio. This was around the same time when the digital reggae era began, so the studio was fully equipped and ready to adopt the new style, but was still able to maintain the traditional roots reggae sound with musicians recording live instrumentation. The Music Works label focused on this new digi-roots style, incorporating keyboard and computer programmed riddims. Gussie Clarke continued to gather some of the best songwriters, musicians, background singers, arrangers, engineers and mixers Jamaica had to offer. Standout tracks include Dennis Brown & Gregory Isaacs' massive radio hit "Big All Around," Home T, Cocoa Tea & Shabba Ranks' "Pirates Anthem," Gregory Isaacs' monumental 1988 summer smash "Rumours." The riddim of the latter track triggered more breakthrough hits like J.C. Lodge's iconic "Telephone Love." To an enthusiastic, who changed and accepted the reggae music market, Clark was always able to evolve to the times and remain one of the most consistent hit makers in the business.

He continued to pump out chart-topping radio bangers in the 1990s, including Deborahe Glasgow & Shabba Ranks "Mr. Loverman" as well as Shabba Ranks & Krystal's international hit "Twice My Age," both featured on this set. He has worked with an ensemble of reggae artists over the years including Daddy Rings, Sizzla and Mey Vidal, as seen on the last 3 tracks of the From The Foundation. Gussie Clarke's music legacy lives on as he influences much of the music today. The icon shares his works on this timeless Reggae Anthology and proves that real roots remain strong when they are from the foundation.

Gussie Clarke has produced so many reggae hits, including from Augustus Pablo, Big Youth, Gregory Isaacs, Dennis Brown,The Mighty Diamonds, Bunny Wailer,  J.C. Lodge, Shabba Ranks, Sizzla and many more. This compilation charts the story from the 1970's and the featured track is just a small hint of the various musical styles on the release. Reggae fans may already have some, or possibly, many of these tracks, however for those who have not, and who like the genre, this is a worthy contender, both to see how much Gussie has contributed to reggae, and the superb artists he has worked with down the years.

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Four 4U: Parlour Tricks - The Little Unsaid - Foreign Architects - Unnveig Aas

Parlour Tricks - Lovesongs.

Promo words - Parlour Tricks released a new Double A side single yesterday (5th October) – the two tracks ‘Lovesongs’ and ‘Requiem’ will be out on cool New York label Bar/ None Records. Catchy and charming ‘Lovesongs’ is an electro synth pop earworm - think dreamy Goldfrapp, complimenting ‘Requiem’ a beat heavy, rhythmic track that is layered with the mystical and airy vocals of Lily Cato.

The band are lead singer and songwriter Lily Cato, bassist and synth player Brian Kesley, drummer Terry Moore and guitarist Angelo Spagnolo, They met at college and first played together on a whim when Cato decided to try her hand at song writing. A few months later Cato asked Morgane Hollowell and Darah "DeeDee" Golub (also friends from college) to join when she realised that nearly every song she'd written was begging for three female voices. Influenced as much by the Andrews Sisters as she is by Vampire Weekend, Cato’s first few years of song writing kept the lyrical spotlight away from herself and instead found inspiration in other people’s stories, newspaper articles, and books. “I write a story for a song the same way you might write a story for a novel” says Cato.

Matching clothing and synchronised dance moves is as integral to a Parlour Tricks show as the music but its all about, making sure that everyone is having a blast both onstage and off is paramount to all six members.  ‘Village Voice’ named them 2014’s Best Pop Band in New York City, so it seems like a mission accomplished. The band recorded their forthcoming new album in Nashville working with producer Emery Dobyns (Patti Smith, Antony & The Johnsons, Noah and the Whale).  Dobyns played a key role in harnessing the band’s ever-evolving sound, allowing them to explore and experiment but creating cohesion within the ten tracks that ultimately ended up on the album due out in early 2016.

Two quite different songs from Parlour Tricks, the featured track is a synth pop wonder, with stand out vocals and harmonies, and a soundtrack that just hooked me in. Requiem is for me even better, both very good songs.

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The Little Unsaid - Can We Hear It?

Background - The Little Unsaid was stewed up in the badlands of West Yorkshire by multi-instrumentalist, producer, poet and songwriter John Elliott. After beginning as a solo project, The Little Unsaid has evolved into a growing community of touring musicians and producers blending folk, electronica, orchestral music and a meticulous song writing craft with John’s haunting, androgynous vocals.

Following on the heels of two well-received, crowd-funded albums, his third, Fisher King, is the result of traumatic personal crisis, reflected in the music’s genre-hopping complexity, lyrical honesty and moments of cathartic release. It was recorded over four weeks in a London basement, in the middle of Highgate Cemetery, in the steeple of a crumbling Islington church, and on a tiny island in the middle of the Celtic Sea.

The album was mixed by Graeme Stewart, long-time Radiohead engineer and producer of Jonny Greenwood’s solo work, which has included producing and mixing the music for Hollywood movies such as There Will Be Blood and The Master.

The songs on Fisher King are part-inspired by books that John became obsessed with during his self-imposed isolation in the hills of West Yorkshire in Winter 2014. These include Lolita by Vladimir Nabokov, Dante’s Inferno, The Death of Bunny Munro by Nick Cave, and The Waste Land by T.S. Eliot (a poem from which the album title was taken). The tone of these literary works correlated with John’s own explorations of the destructive nature of human desire and the loss of faith in the face of catastrophe, which has bled its way into all of the songs on the album.

The lead single 'Can We Hear It ?' was selected by Catherine Cunning Coco Media & Artist Management in collaboration with Mark Gardener of OX-4-Sound and front man of legendary Oxford band Ride, who also mixed the single during breaks from their recent world tour.

You know that moment when you hear an artist or band for the first time, and you stop doing anything, to concentrate and just take in the song. Well 'The Little Unsaid' did that very thing to me this afternoon. The featured track is just so imaginative and having listened to some other tracks this is for me, one very special collection of songs.

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Foreign Architects - Fall.

Background - Foreign Architects are about to release their second single for the year, ‘Fall’, on October 16th. Foreign Architects have had a massive 2015 so far, having supported ARIA Award winning Australian band Eskimo Joe before releasing their last single, ‘Clover’. The band continued to capitalise on this success, being selected to take part in the Singapore-WA Music Exchange, which saw the band perform at Beerfest Asia in Singapore, a festival attended by over 30,000 punters. 

Foreign Architects are a Perth based Indie-Pop duo made up of singer-songwriter Matt Burke and his drummer cousin, Andrew Barnett. With a huge sound combining a multitude of guitar and bass amps, layers of harmonies, the unforgettable songs and energy of their live show will leave you wondering how it was produced by only two people on stage.

Produced by Lance Robinson and A&R Department head Matt O’Connor, ‘Fall’ is a powerful alternative rock song with a driving beat, reminiscent of fellow Aussie bands Violent Soho and Grinspoon.

'Fall' doesn't waste time getting started and we are straight into a hook laden, indie rock song, with vocals that ride smooth, over a solid timeless musical piece.

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Unnveig Aas - Run.

Background  - Unnveig Aas has quickly become known as the small soft-spoken woman with the big sorrowful voice. 

Within a few years she has touched audiences in clubs, venues and festivals all over Norway, played support for Judy Collins, John Fullbright and Daniel Romano, and additionally performed for a sold-out festival tent in Bremen. Now comes the new material. EP released 9th of October.

As the promo is a little on the minimalist side, all I know at present is what is stated above. The song is absolutely charming, Unnveig has a beautiful voice and the music just carries her along. A country feel which leans a little towards Emmylou Harris on this track (see that as a massive compliment), I cannot wait to hear more.

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Sundays Alternative Take: Soothing, Grooving and Dancing

Tom Swoon Vs Ale Q & Sonny Noto - Alive.

Promo words - Released through Ultra Music on September 25th is ‘Alive’, the collaborative single from Tom Swoon, Ale Q & Sonny Noto. Producers/DJs Ale Q and Sonny Noto have gone head to head with Polish artist Swoon for this track, and the results are nothing short of epic.

A stirring piece of progressive house, the tune almost bubbles into action at the start before effortless vocals soak over the top of the bass line, and complementary piano twinkles add a further expressive edge. As the electro-edged beat really starts to take hold, there is another soulful intermission - before the power and intensity reaches a dance floor ready climax.

Actually the promo words are pretty much spot on. Progressive House fans will love this energised and driving song, the vocals if anything help calm the whole thing down, so we can pause for breath.

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The Flavr Blue feat. Jarell Perry - Oxygen.

Background - After a summer of major milestones, the Seattle­-based trio the Flavr Blue is about to deliver their most anticipated release yet: The L​ove Notes​ EP, a collection that marries the group's crackling energy with a soulful musical wisdom inherited from influences ranging from Cut Copy and Miike Snow to Feist and Sade.

The band's success is driven by the way its members — lead singer Hollis Wong­-Wear, whose voice graced the Billboard Top 20 hit "White Walls" by Macklemore & Ryan Lewis, and singer/producers Lace Cadence and Parker Joe, each with a litany of Seattle hip ­hop and R&B releases under their belts — weave their voices and eclectic experimentalist within a rich electronic landscape. It’s been that way since the beginning, when they first built tracks in a half­ bedroom turned studio in Parker's Beacon Hill town house. It grew as they translated the sounds to wild live shows, for crowds both charmed and electrified by their combination of heartfelt soul and energetic electronica. Even Questlove tweeted his affection for the band’s live performance after watching their set at the Brooklyn Bowl. In celebration of the release of upcoming EP L​ove Notes, the Flavr Blue is releasing "Oxygen" (ft. Jarell Perry).

As 'bonus' songs go this is top quality. A mixture of electro and house sounds, and a mixture of fine vocals, make this a very good track.

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Exploding Clouds - Drive The Car.

Background - Hailing from Miami, Exploding Clouds is Michael Barksdale's synth-pop project. Exploding Clouds started as Barksdale's solo experimentation's back in 2010 as an alternative to his darker alter ego, Culture Prophet. After many years of performing and producing with other bands and aliases, he decided to revisit his previous work and bring it back to life. Exploding clouds is about positivity, gazing into the horizon, and looking beyond what the eye can see. 

The recently released nine track EP features beautiful electronic ambient songs reminiscent of Tycho, Com Truise, Washed Out and Caribou.

This is a pleasing track, the song flows beautifully, with vocals that are immersed in the mix and drift along with the gentle and soothing soundtrack.

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Stevie Wonder - Superstition (Lliam Taylor Remix).

Background words - Not many artists could re-imagine the music of a legend like Stevie Wonder and do justice to one of his hits, but 19-year-old west coast producer Lliam Taylor is up to the task. Following more mellow remixes of Defunk's "Saturday Night" and Craig David's "Fill Me In," Lliam's "Superstition" remix sees him taking a harder, more dance floor-friendly edge, with lush breakdowns balanced out by groovy bass lines over a thumping house drop. The instrumental complements Stevie's vocals beautifully, and instantly modernises the classic song.

Formerly known as Kezwik, Lliam Taylor has toured with Datsik and landed at #1 on the Beatport Dubstep chart. Never aiming to be pigeonholed in just one genre, Lliam has been broadening his sound to embrace other electronic styles and has set his sights on the world of house. A true musician through and through, Lliam aims, with every piece of music he writes, "to create a song that tells a story and makes you feel something from start to finish, whether it be intense feelings or just the need to dance".

Fair play to Lliam, this has taken the original song, successfully into another style or genre, and Stevie Wonder's voice comes across so distinctly, that it is even more 'stand out' than the original. As an old Tamla Motown fan, I was ready to rip this apart, instead I have to admit, it's a remarkable version.

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Mauro Picotto - The Whistle (Radio Edit).

Promo words - In October, Picotto will be releasing his ninth studio album From Heart To Techno on his own imprint Alchemy Records. The new album finds Mauro churning out what he does best: full throttle tech-house and techno built for sweaty dance floors. Ahead of the full release of his album, Mauro has channelled his inner jazz-man for the albums first single The Whistle, which is available for free download to wet your appetite. The track features jazzy pianos, funky vibes, and, of course, a whistle-along melody as jackin percussion propels the song along to euphoric grooviness.

This just puts a smile on my face. Everything about 'The Whistle' is just so bright and fun filled. Dance floors will be in for a punishing, as soon as this one plays.

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Saturday Double Selection: Sloom - Tohearmeroar

Sloom - Magic Cup.

What we are told - Sloom is a rock n roll band from Sydney’s Inner West, whose members are Chris Diamond and Cristian Di Paolo on guitar and vocals, Dane Macintosh on bass and Jamie Graham on drums. Coming from a variety of musical backgrounds they set out together to create their own original music. After recording their first EP, Kahayalan in 2014 Sloom has refined their sound and are set to release their first single ‘Magic Cup’. 

Produced and recorded by the band, ‘Magic Cup’ captures the spirit of their live performances and draws inspiration from an older era. ‘Magic Cup’ might resonate with fans of John Dwyer, Ty Segall and any living thing that likes their music energetic and fun! Sloom are playing a show at Frankie’s Pizza on Hunter St on October 11, come down and grab yourself a slice of Sloom.

The live feel to 'Magic Cup' gives the song natural, raw energy. The retro feel for me, is in the vocals, whilst the no nonsense rock soundtrack retains a fresh sparky sound. Put together the whole song works, so very well.

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Tohearmeroar - The Atlantic.

I would love to tell you all about Tohearmeroar, however beyond the fact they are a musician/band from Queens, New York, (USA), it would appear everything else is on 'a need to know' basis only.

Anyhow our music feature policy remains 'if we like it and we can feature it, we will'. One thing Tohearmeroar have been generous with is the amount of songs they have shared on Soundcloud. Some more on the Facebook page (here).

'The Atlantic' is the latest song, and having checked out the others my first impression is one of a developing maturity in the music and singing. Vocals are stand out, there is a passion that just can't help but come across in the featured track. It just sounds so very much, music from the heart.

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Friday Uplift: Rabid Young - Peter Henry Phillips - Indiago

Rabid Young - Not Enough.

Background - At some point in 2014, Las Vegas musician Eric Rickey found himself at the end of a well-travelled road wondering where to go next.

That year Eric’s previous band, Most Thieves, had opened for the Killers through Europe and Canada, playing arenas and getting a taste of international success. Reflecting on the experience Eric explains: “We had all the opportunity in the world but for whatever reason it didn’t pan out.” That tour culminated in a home town show at the Cosmo on New Year’s Eve where they played for thousands of people before the members decided to take a break from the project. It was at this pinnacle, looking out at the sea of eager faces, when the words “rabid young” popped into his head.

Back in Vegas, Rickey joined up with friend and fellow musician Jackson Wilcox (A Crowd of Small Adventures) and the two began plotting their new endeavour with fellow Most Thieves alum Bobby Lee Parker (guitar), as well as Matthew Long (drummer for Roky Erickson) and Alex Stopa (The Silver State, Big Talk). Each of the band members’ musical pedigree was solid but they were all involved in more “heady” forms of rock. This was going to be an unabashedly deliberate attempt to go in a pop rock direction under the new banner. The newly christened Rabid Young decamped at Eric’s studio, Electric Animal, which is usually booked up by local talent (Eric provides bands an affordable place to track when he is not working in the audio department for Cirque du Soleil).

The result is the bands freshly minted self-titled debut EP, mixed by Grammy winning engineer Adam J. Odor. While the songs are influenced by classic rock, the production palette is strictly 21st century and one can tell that plenty of thought went into deconstructing the radio pop that took hold of the charts in the 80's and fusing it with its not-so-distant cousin; current top 40; straight forward lyrics cut right to the heart of the matter, melodies leap from the speakers and a metric ton of shimmering keyboards cascade over the methodical beats.

'Not Enough' is from the bands debut EP released today, and is indicative of the five songs on the EP. It's a creative mix of synth pop with a rockier edge, all of which have a generally bright and breezy feel to them.

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Peter Henry Phillips - I Wanna Go.

Bio and Info - Canadian singer-songwriter and producer Peter Henry Phillips will make his highly anticipated American debut at Culture Collide in Los Angeles on Thursday, Oct. 8 at Taix and Friday, Oct. 9 at The Champagne Room. 

Peter Henry Phillips has been working on his solo project for over five years. The Origin is inspired by nature and the beauty surrounding our daily endeavours. Phillips’ mesmerising melodies have a soothing quality, maintaining a symbiosis with the charismatic and introspective feel of the album. With the cinematographic opening piece “The Wind,” the joyful first single “I Wanna Go,” and the Lennonesque “Burn & Crash,” Phillips has solidified his place among today’s elite songwriters.

In addition to having written, composed, and produced The Origin, Peter played keyboards, guitar, bass, and pedal steel. According to Peter, his debut full-length captures his generous nature and his impassioned approach to life: “This album represents my desire to exist and to share my passion for life, music, and humanity. It has helped me to remember where I’m from and to better know where I want to go.”

Peter Henry Phillips, known as Pilou in Canada, became a fixture on the Quebec scene via his work with artists such as Jorane, Ariane Moffatt, and Tomas Jensen. The Asbestos native also collaborated with Maxime Morin, better known as DJ Champion, as the lead vocalist for his last two albums, Resistance and °1. In 2010, Pilou became one of Quebec’s most beloved singers when he performed on the television show Belle & Bum.

During the past decade, Peter has worked as a producer for a variety of artists, including Marie-Jo Thério (Chasing Lydie), Philippe Brach (La foire et l’ordre), and Sébastien Lacombe (Territoires). The multi-talented artist performed on the original soundtrack of Denys Arcand’s last movie, Le règne de la beauté, which included two of his original songs in the score.

'I Wanna Go' is one of those songs that feet cannot stay still to, it kinda makes me feel I need to march along to it. Really fine vocals and a sweeping production, make this a really nice engaging tune.

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Indiago - Been So Long.

Background provided - Mixing the perfect blend of a funky rhythm section and ambient guitars, with the heaviness and huge Rock sound the band is known for, the new single ‘Been So Long’ is a breath of fresh air from Adelaide Hills rockers Indiago. 

Off the back of their Independent EP in 2013, and single release ‘Fleetwood' earlier in the year, the new track is a true testament to the complexity and diversity in the young band's song writing.

Heading back to Hothouse Audio, St. Kilda, and joining forces once again with legendary Producers Craig Harnath and Jez Giddings (Jet, Kingswood, The Living End, Ash Grunwald, Dan Sultan), this could be Indiago's most up- beat and positive songs to date.

"We wanted to write something more uplifting," says lead singer Will Solomon, "something people could move to, while still staying true to our signature sound."

The constant moving of funky bass, played by AJ Janus and the scattered, intricate drums of Shane Cox, teamed up with wailing, reverbed guitars from James Fishers and Harry Townsend, opens the song with a head-nodding, but smooth intro. Frontman Will Solomon compliments the vibe with a catchy, soulful melody that flows through the music. In true Indiago style, the song builds and builds, and climaxes with three huge guitar tones, thrashing drum and bass and gritty vocals that soar across the track, leading into a double-time ending of full-on, fast paced Rock-and-Roll.

The vocals demand attention, whilst the rest of the band demand you just love the whole song. There is an underlying power in the music that is constrained, to allow the positive feelings to run free.

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Drive-By Truckers - Live at Cooley's House, 2003 (IA)

From the Internet Archive (IA) this is the Drive-By Truckers in a private family and friends performance at band member Mike Cooley's House in Gardendale, Alabama, USA.

It is an incredible acoustic performance with superb audio quality and as one reviewer put it " this recording is amazing. I was having a few beers listening to it and the next thing I know I'm doing shots of Elijah Craig and singing out loud like a jackass".

Of the time before and around this session Wikipedia say's - After three years on the road, a tight-knit group of musicians emerged and began work on 2001's double album, Southern Rock Opera. The album weaves the history of Lynyrd Skynyrd into a narrative about a fictitious rock band called "Betamax Guillotine," whose story unfolds within the context of the South during the 1970s. Southern Rock Opera was originally released independently on Drive-By Truckers' own Soul Dump Records on September 12, 2001, and garnered praise from fans and critics alike. In order to meet the new demand brought on by, among other things, a four-star review in Rolling Stone, Southern Rock Opera was re-issued by Mercury and Lost Highway Records in July 2002. Soon after, Drive-By Truckers were named Band of the Year by No Depression.

Before Drive-By Truckers went on tour in support of Southern Rock Opera, the band ran into a problem when they were left with only two guitarists (Cooley and Hood) following the departure of Rob Malone in late 2001. The band added fellow Alabamian guitarist and songwriter Jason Isbell (originally from Greenhill, Alabama) to their line-up as the band's third guitarist. During his five years with Drive-By Truckers, Isbell's compositions became as highly praised as those of Cooley and Hood. After signing a new deal with Austin-based record label New West, Drive-By Truckers set about recording the follow-up to Southern Rock Opera. The result was 2003's Decoration Day, which, like its predecessor, received much critical praise. It was another concept album, containing characters who are faced with hard decisions about marriage, incest, break-ups, revenge, murder, and suicide.

After years of producing and playing with Drive-By Truckers, bassist Earl Hicks left the band on December 22, 2003. Hicks was immediately replaced by studio bassist Shonna Tucker, then wife of guitarist Jason Isbell. Tucker had previously guested on Decoration Day playing upright bass on the Cooley-penned track, "Sounds Better in the Song."

Recording Details: AKG 483 -> HHB PDR-1000. Lineage Tascam DA-20mkII -> S/PDIF -> HHB CDR830 -> EAC -> Cool Edit Pro(DSP) -> shntool -> CDWave -> mkwACT -> SHN -> FLAC. Taped by Chris Pennington.

Sound Quality: Excellent (your in the room with them).

Set List:

01) Zip City
02) Lookout Mountain
03) Decoration Day
04) Winter Wonderland
05) Love Like This
06) Too Much Sex, Too Little Jesus
07) Outfit
08) Where The Devil Don't Stay
09) Murdering Oscar
10) When The Pin Hits The Shell
11) Do It Yourself
12) Danko/Manuel
13) George Jones Talkin' Cellphone Blues
14) Uncle Frank
15) Goddamned Lonely Love
16) The Company I Keep
17) Little Pony And The Great Big Horse
18) Never Gonna Change
19) The Day John Henry Died
20) Tales Facing Up
21) Bulldozers And Dirt

Website: Official Here.

Comments: There are FLAC, Ogg Vorbis and mp3 download files, along with the streaming material over at the Internet Archive (here).

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