The World Of B-Sides & Rarities, #604

M. Ward - Oh Lonesome Me

A breathtaking Don Gibson cover performed last month in Austin.

Read my review of that intimate SXSW gig here.

MP3: M. Ward - Oh Lonesome Me

The Last Shadow Puppets Visit Fader TV

Watch the duo perform 'Standing...' below. Read my review of their 2nd-ever gig here.


MP3: The Last Shadow Puppets - The Age (Live) [alt link]

Dizzee Rascal & El-P Join Forces For Spring Tour

Catch the hip-hopping bill at:

May 8 Washington, DC - 9:30 Club
May 9 Philly, PA - 1st Unitarian
May 10 New York, NY - Webster Hall
May 11 Boston, MA - Middle East
May 12 Ottawa, ON - NC Music Hall
May 14 Detroit, MI - Crofoot
May 15 Chicago, IL - The Abbey
May 16 Minneapolis, MN - Triple Rock
May 19 Seattle, WA - Neumos
May 20 Portland, OR - Berbati's Pan
May 21 San Francisco, CA - 1015
May 22 Los Angeles, CA - El Rey

Visit Dizzee on MySpace.

MP3: Dizzee Rascal - Where's Da G's?

Who The Hell Is *Unicycle Loves You*?

Hails From: Chicago

Influences: T. Rex, The Cure, Pavement

Sounds Like: '60s psych + '70s glam + '80s new wave

Visit Unicycle Loves You on MySpace.

MP3: Unicycle Loves You - Hawaii

The Futureheads Visit 'Lily Allen & Friends'

Enjoy this week's performance of 'The Beginning Of The Twist' below (FF to 6:10).


MP3: The Futureheads - Hounds Of Love (Remix)

The Antlers Announce 3-Week NYC Residency

Catch 'em at Rehab (formerly Midway) on:

4/2, 4/9 & 4/16

Visit The Antlers on MySpace.

MP3: The Antlers - The Universe...

Kylie Minogue Visits The Today Show

Enjoy Matt Lauer's extensive Q&A with the pop star from this morning's appearance.


MP3: Kylie Minogue - Love At First Sight (Remix)

Joan Of Arc Divulges New Album Deets

Boo Human is out on May 20th. Polyvinyl Records shares the following blurb about the LP: *By combining one week of studio time, a stack of songs and a sign-up sheet allowing participants to drop in whenever they could, each track on Boo Human is as wildly different and uniquely constructed as the groups who produced them. The combination of 14 musicians whose previous collaborations include Wilco, Iron & Wine, Bonnie Prince Billy, Beth Orton & Prefuse 73 yields a truly diverse record that is as intense as it is intimate.*

Visit Joan Of Arc on MySpace.

MP3: Joan Of Arc - A Tell-Tale Penis

'Juno' Soundtrack: The Sequel

In case you wanted more...

Almost Adopted Songs is out next month.

Track listing is as follows:

1. Twentieth Century Fox Fanfare - Kimya Dawson
2. Me & You - Barry Louis Polisar
3. My Wandering Days Are Over - Belle & Sebastian
4. Kite - Mateo Messina
5. Viva La Persistance - Ellen Page
6. Little Baby - The Bristols
7. I'm Into Something Good - Jr. James
8. Meet The McGruffs - Mateo Messina
9. Once I Loved - Astrud Gilberto
10. All I Want Is You - Kimya Dawson
11. Learning The Game - Buddy Holly
12. Meet The Lorings - Mateo Messina
13. Besame Mucho - Trio Los Panchos
14. You Can Have It All - Yo La Tengo
15. Zub Zub - Ellen Page

MP3: Kimya Dawson - Loose Lips

The World Of B-Sides & Rarities, #603

Hercules & Love Affair - You Belong (Riton Rerub)

Visit Hercules & Love Affair on MySpace.

Learn all about Riton here.

MP3: Hercules & Love Affair - You Belong (Riton Rerub)

Oasis & Ryan Adams Team Up For Brief Trek

Will they duet on 'Wonderwall'? Find out at:

8/26/08: Seattle, WA - WaMu Theater
8/27/08: Vancouver, BC - GM Place
8/29/08: Edmonton, AB - Rexall Place
8/30/08: Calgary, AB - Pengrowth Saddledome

All tix are on sale 4/4 via Ticketmaster.

MP3: Oasis - Don't Look Back In Anger

Death Cab Unveils New North American Tour Dates

Be sure to catch 'em at:

5/26/08 Lehi, UT @ Thanksgiving Point
6/2/08 Minneapolis, MN @ Orpheum Theatre
6/3/08 Chicago, IL @ MPP Pavilion
6/6/08 Montreal, QC @ Jacques Cartier Pier
6/7/08 Toronto, ON @ Toronto Olympic Island
6/10/08 Brooklyn, NY @ McCarren Park Pool
6/12/08 Philadelphia, PA @ Mann Center
6/14/08 Indianapolis, IN @ The Lawn
6/19/08 Mesa, AZ @ Mesa Amphitheatre
6/21/08 Berkeley, CA @ Greek Theatre

For ticket info, head to DCFC's MySpace page.

MP3: Death Cab For Cutie - Wait

ATJ @ SXSW: Photos, Recaps, Etc.

View the complete After The Jump pictorial here.

Accompanying shot of Care Bears On Fire by Katie K.

Much thanks to all attendees, bands & sponsors.

We couldn't have done it without all of you!

MP3: CBOF - Everybody Else

The Music Slut And Limewire Make Out

This Friday night, The Music Slut is proud to be sponsoring the Limewire Music Blog party at NYC's Crash Mansion. Dear friends of this site, Cassettes Won't Listen and A Brief Smile will be playing.

Make sure and come early for the free booze at 9pm and remember to RSVP (rsvp@newyorkunderbelly.com) for free entry as well.

This shit is hot, so come out and say hi to your sluts.

We'll be the drunks in the corner berating the Limewire DJs to play '9-5'!

N.E.R.D. Explains Logic Behind New LP Title

Watch the trio discuss Seeing Sounds below. Read my review of their SXSW gig here.


MP3: N.E.R.D. - She Wants To Move

Efterklang Debuts New Video

Enjoy 'Caravan' below. Just last month, the collective won 2 Danish Grammys.


MP3: Efterklang - Jojo (Live)

The World Of B-Sides & Rarities, #602

Crime Mob vs. The Dodos - Stilettos In The Park

'Park Song' by The Dodos

PLUS

'Stilettos' by Crime Mob

A genius mash-up courtesy of The Hood.

MP3: Crime Mob vs. The Dodos - Stilettos In The Park

Gatecrasher Festival 2008 Line-Up Revealed

Electroheads in Northamptonshire, rejoice!

5/24 & 5/25 @ Turweston Aerodrome.

Here's who you can expect to see:

Mark Ronson (DJ Set)
Hot Chip
The Chemical Brothers
The Prodigy
Digitalism
Audio Bullys
Paul Oakenfold
CSS
Soulwax
Paul Van Dyk
Simian Mobile Disco
Justice
The Whip
Black Ghosts

For the complete bill, head here.

MP3: Justice - D.A.N.C.E. (PB Mix)

NME Interviews Les Savy Fav

The UK mag dropped a few questions by the band before last month's NME Awards.


MP3: Les Savy Fav - The Equestrian

Cassettes Won't Listen @ BK Industries: Another Sunny Day

This past weekend, Brooklyn Industries hosted not one, not two, but six mini-gigs from TMS fave, Cassettes Won't Listen. I was lucky enough to catch the first of the bunch at Cobble Hill's Atlantic Avenue location. The 20 minute sets promoted CWL's new T-shirt design (availably exclusively at BI locations) as well as his new release, Small-Time Machine. Alongside selections from the aforementioned EP, Cassettes performed a duo of covers from his One Alternative collection ('Cut Your Hair' & 'Change'). All in all, a splendid way to spend a sunshiny spring afternoon. Purchase the snazzy top here. Visit Cassettes Won't Listen at his official MySpace page. Enjoy a dazzling CWL remix at bottom of post.

MP3: El-P - Flyentology (CWL Remix)

MMM #104

*Emily Saxe - Walk On By*

Laromlab - Mission For Glory

Lucky Dragons - Morning Ritual

The Teenage Prayers - Dreams Of The South

Sally Shapiro - Jackie Junior (Junior Boys Remix)

Bjork Premieres 'Wanderlust' Video Tonight

Be sure to head to Yahoo this evening for the stunning clip (her fourth from 2007's Volta). A 3-D version will be available on Bjork's official site sometime later this week!

Greet the Icelandic vocalist on MySpace.

MP3: Bjork & Thom Yorke - I've Seen... [alt link]

Who The Hell Is *Esser*?

Hails From: London

Recently Toured With: Foals

File Under: Laptop-heavy indie pop

Learn more about Esser on MySpace.

MP3: Esser - I Love You

The Daily Mirror Interviews Badly Drawn Boy

Watch the full Q&A below. Visit BDB at his official site. MP3 at bottom of post.


MP3: Badly Drawn Boy - Without A Kiss [alt link]

CONTEST: Adam Green In NYC

The reigning anti-folk king gets intimate.

(Saturday, 5/10 @ Town Hall)

To win tix, e-mail us with your best tip for staying green!

Winner will be selected & notified by 5/5.

Visit Adam Green on MySpace.

MP3: Adam Green - Jessica

Guillemots Record New Song For Q Magazine

Here's the story: *Q challenged the super prolific Guillemots to write and record a song from scratch in just 24 hours. The band stopped by their East London studio to document the songwriting process - which, this being Guillemots, involved car keys, scissors, a camera shutter and a hoover pipe!* Watch the 'making of' plus a teaser of the tune below.


MP3: Guillemots - Cockateels [alt link]

CONTEST: The Long Blondes In Brooklyn

Sheffield's finest glam-punkers are set return to the US.

(Thursday, 5/15 @ Studio B)

To win tix, e-mail us a haiku about your favorite blonde!

Winner will be selected & notified by 5/12.

Visit The Long Blondes on MySpace.

MP3: The Long Blondes - Here Comes...

The World Of B-Sides & Rarities, #601

The Antlers - I'm Hibernating

A selection from 2007's February Tape EP.

Visit The Antlers on MySpace.

Photo courtesy of Kyla LaMariana.

MP3: The Antlers - I'm Hibernating

CONTEST: The Teenagers In Brooklyn

Wanna catch our favorite naughty French trio?

(Saturday, 5/3 @ Music Hall Of Williamsburg)

To win tix, e-mail us with your most embarrassing teenage moment!

Winner will be selected & notified by 4/28.

Visit The Teenagers on MySpace.

MP3: The Teenagers - Starlett Johansson

Redfest 2008 Line-Up Takes Shape

In its sophomore year, Redfest will include:

The Maccabees
Lightspeed Champion
Los Campesinos!
WinterKids
Ebony Bones

To view the full roster, head here.

The event will take place on 7/4 & 7/5 in Surrey.

MP3: Los Campesinos! - My Year... [alt link]

New York Noise Interviews Yeasayer

Watch the band discuss the influence of blogs and their favorite NYC acts below.


MP3: Yeasayer - Sunrise

Chairlift Records WOXY Lounge Session

A glorious set from Brooklyn's latest indie-poppers.

Learn more about the 3-piece on MySpace.

Listen to WOXY here.

MP3: Chairlift - Live On WOXY

The World Of B-Sides & Rarities, #600

Celebration - Hands Off My Gold (SMD Remix)

Learn more about Celebration here.

Visit Simian Mobile Disco on MySpace.

MP3: Celebration - Hands Off My Gold (SMD Remix)

Pattern Is Movement Interviewed By Uncensored

Watch the duo explain their Pentecostal upbringing (no dancing!) in the clip below.


MP3: Patten Is Movement - Right Away

Sharon Jones Covers Woody Guthrie At Amoeba Music

Enjoy her tremendous take on 'This Land Is Your Land' below. Visit Sharon on MySpace.


MP3: Sharon Jones - 100 Days, 100 Nights

Portishead Shares Pre-Gig Procedures

Adrian Utley (founding member & multi instrumentalist) tells Billboard: *"We've been immensely looking forward to touring. But we're divided about it. Beth Gibbons is really nervous about playing live, and Geoff absolutely hates playing live and I love playing live. We don't really do any ritual before a gig. It's very unspectacular. Beth does a warm-up with her tape. A few gins are drunk, and there's some strolling around nervously behind the stage. And that's it. We go on."* Visit Portishead at their official site.

MP3: Portishead - Glory Box

No Fun Fest Announces 2008 Line-Up

5/16 - 5/18 @ NY's Knitting Factory. Mark your calendars!

This year's acts include:

Astro
Thurston Moore & Nancy Garcia
The Haters
The Nevari Butchers
Shallow Waters

To view the entire bill, head here.

MP3: The Nevari Butchers - Fearless [edit]

Chris Walla Visits NPR

Death Cab For Cutie's guitarist performed:

Two-Fifty
Everyone Needs A Home
Sing Again

Enjoy the full solo session here.

Visit Chris at his MySpace page.

MP3: Chris Walla - Sing Again

British Sea Power Generates Mixtape For Nylon Mag

The Brighton-based quartet chose these artists:

Focus
Neil Young
Sigur Ros
Eddie Cochran
A Hawk And A Hacksaw
Stravinsky

View each & every selection here.

MP3: British Sea Power - Atom

Kimya Dawson Covers 'Annie' Theme

Perfectly random, perfectly delightful. Enjoy 'The Sun Will Come Out Tomorrow' below.


MP3: Kimya Dawson - I Like Giants (Live)

Sigur Ros Frontman Brings Art Project To London

Back in December of '06, I reviewed Riceboy Sleeps.

Brits - here's your chance to see the collection in person:

April 10th - 17th @ Agency Gallery

Further info can be found here.

MP3: Sigur Ros - Staralfur

Vlaze TV Interviews South

Watch their SXSW Q&A below. Download a brand new track from You Are Here at bottom.


MP3: South - Better Things [alt link]

EW Unveils Latest Installment Of 'Songs On The Verge'

Here are the mag's spring 2008 picks:

1. TEYANA TAYLOR - Google Me
2. SHE & HIM - Why Do You Let Me Stay Here?
3. KATHLEEN EDWARDS - Buffalo
4. SANTOGOLD - L.E.S. Artistes
5. HERCULES AND LOVE AFFAIR - Blind
6. IDLE WARSHIP - Industry Diary
7. APES & ANDROIDS - Riverside
8. RAFTER - Love Time Now Please
9. ELF POWER - Spiral Stairs
10. SEAN GARRETT - Grippin'

MP3: Rafter - Encouragement

R.E.M. Covers Editors

Enjoy the trio's take on 'Munich' (as recorded in Radio 1's Live Lounge) below.


MP3: R.E.M. - Losing My Religion

Deer Tick Records Daytrotter Session

The Rhode Island native performed:

Ashamed
Baltimore Blues No. 1
Little White Lies
The Ghost

Visit Deer Tick on MySpace.

MP3: Deer Tick - Hell On Earth

The World Of B-Sides & Rarities, #599

Casiotone For The Painfully Alone - Seattle Wash

A selection from his out-of-print debut 7".

Learn more about Casiotone here.

MP3: CFTPA - Seattle Wash

Oatmeal TV Interviews Lightspeed Champion

Watch the Q&A below (following a brief piece on Jimmy Eat World). Visit LC on MySpace.


MP3: Lightspeed Champion - Waiting Game

The World Of B-Sides & Rarities, #598

Dead Confederate - Live On WOXY

Another gorgeous SXSW 2008 session.

Visit the Athens-based band on MySpace.

MP3: Dead Confederate - Live On WOXY

Georgie James Visits MTV, Answers Fan Questions

Watch the duo's responses below. Read my review of a Georgie James SXSW gig here.


MP3: Georgie James - Need Your Needs

Adam Green Extends North American Tour

Catch the anti-folker at:

6/3 Washington, DC Black Cat
6/4 Philadelphia, PA First Church
6/5 Boston, MA Great Scott
6/6 Montreal, QUE Tulipe
6/7 Toronto, ONT Horseshoe Tavern
6/9 Detroit, MI Magic Stick
6/10 Chicago, IL Lake Shore Theatre

Visit Adam Green on MySpace.

MP3: Adam Green - Salty Candy (Live)

Dirty On Purpose Soundtracks Virgin Mobile Ad

Watch the brand new commercial below (featuring DOP's 'Audience In The Room').


MP3: Dirty On Purpose - Mind Blindness

The New Pornographers Visit NPR's World Cafe

The Canadian super-group performed:

My Rights Versus Yours
Challengers
Myriad Harbour
Unguided

Listen to the full set here.

Catch TNP on their spring tour with Okkervil River.

MP3: TNP - When I Was A Baby

Regina Spektor Releases Ad For Record Store Day

Independently owned shops will celebrate RSD on April 19th. Learn more here.


MP3: Regina Spektor - The Flowers

Animal Collective To Drop By East Village Radio

The band will appear on the Domino Records Show.

The program will air on 3/31 at 10am (EST).

Further information can be found here.

MP3: Animal Collective - Fireworks (Live)

Au Revoir Simone Hosts New York Noise's 2008 VJ Search

Watch the very 1st audition below. Learn more about ARS at their official site.


MP3: Au Revoir Simone - Fallen Snow

The Hives Plot Yet Another US Tour

Some further opportunities to check out Sweden's finest:

5/15: Atlanta, GA
 (Center Stage Atlanta)
5/16: Nashville, TN
 (Wildhorse)
5/17: Indianapolis, IN
 (The Vogue Theatre)
5/18: Milwaukee, WI
 (The Rave)
5/19: Fargo, ND (Playmaker’s)
5/25: Spokane, WA (Big Easy Concert House)
5/26: Quincy, WA
 (Gorge Amphitheatre)

MP3: The Hives - Tick Tick Boom

Spanish Prisoners & John Vanderslice Team Up For Brief Trek

Catch both outstanding acts at:

April 10th, State College PA
April 11th, Pittsburgh PA
April 12th, Athens OH
April 13th, Columbus OH

Read my Q&A with Spanish Prisoners here.

Visit John Vanderslice on MySpace.

MP3: John Vanderslice - White Dove

Duffy Visits GMTV

Watch her interview & performance of 'Mercy' below. Learn more about Duffy here.


MP3: Duffy - Mercy

The World Of B-Sides & Rarities, #597

Jukebox The Ghost - Hold... (Live @ ATJ SXSW BBQ)

The 1st track from their After The Jump set.

Many thanks for the recording, Ryan!

Visit JTG on MySpace.

MP3: JTG - Hold... (Live @ ATJ SXSW BBQ) [alt link]

Ladytron Sets Title & Release Date For New LP

The dark-haired electro wizards are back!

Velocifero will be out on June 3rd.

Catch Ladytron with Datarock on their forthcoming tour.

Visit Ladytron on MySpace.

MP3: Ladytron - Black Cat

Paste Mag Interrogates She & Him

Here's a snippet from the feature.

Describe the album in a word:
Zooey D: Sweet.
M Ward: Real.

Favorite actor/singer:
ZD: Judy Garland.
MW: Not Cher.

Hidden talent:
ZD: Mouth trumpet.
MW: Ukulele.

Read the full piece here.

MP3: S&H - Untitled [alt link]

The Cave Singers Visit The Culture Show

Enjoy 'Dancing On Our Graves' below. Learn all about the Seattle-based act here.


MP3: The Cave Singers - Seeds Of Night

Radiohead Tribute Festival Takes Shape

At Ease explains: *The Daydream Festival (June 12) in Barcelona, Spain is a tribute to Radiohead, with artists which have influenced Radiohead and the other way around. Allegedly, the band even handpicked a number of the acts playing the festival at Parc del Fòrum Auditorium.*

In addition to Radiohead, expect to see:

Bat For Lashes
Low
Clinic
Liars
Modeselektor

Purchase tickets to the event here.

MP3: Low - Breaker

Langhorne Slim Visits Letterman

Enjoy Langhorne's network TV debut below. Visit LS at his MySpace page.


MP3: Langhorne Slim - Rebel Side Of Heaven

Blog Fresh Radio: The SXSW 2008 Sessions

The following blogs are featured in the Austin edition:

Punk Photo
Her Jazz
RySpace
Fluxblog
Matablog

Tune into the program here.

Listen through the end for a selection from TMS Jen!

MP3: Make Believe - Say What You Mean

BBC Interviews The Teenagers

Check out a hilarious Q&A below. Visit The Teenagers at their official site.


MP3: The Teenagers - Starlett Johansson (Narctrax Remix)

The World Of B-Sides & Rarities, #596

Peter Moren - Live On WOXY

He performed the following SXSW set:

Tell Me In Time
Le Petit Coeur
This Is What I Came For
Social Competence
Goodbye, Again Or

Listen to WOXY here.

MP3: Peter Moren - Live On WOXY

Underage Festival Reveals 2008 Line-Up

The 2nd go-round includes:

GALLOWS
FOALS
BONDE DE ROLE
THE TEENAGERS

It will take place on 8/8 at London's Victoria Park.

For further info, head here.

MP3: Foals - Balloons (Remix)

Our Slutty Weekend Picks, 3/27

Thursday, 3/27:
-Sunset Rubdown @ Masonic Temple
-PWRFL Power @ Sound Fix
-Caribou @ Music Hall

Friday, 3/28:
-Simian Mobile Disco @ NH Museum
-These Are Powers @ Silent Barn
-The Death Set @ Glasslands
-Hymns @ Southpaw

Saturday, 3/29:
-Cassettes Won't Listen @ BK Industries
-Langhorne Slim @ Maxwell's
-The Pharmacy @ Cakeshop
-Excepter @ Glasslands

Sunday, 3/30:
-John Vanderslice @ Mercury
-Beth Orton @ Music Hall
-Boredoms @ T5

MP3: Sunset Rubdown - Stadiums...

The World Of B-Sides & Rarities, #595

The Glass - Fourteen Again (Eli Escobar Mix)

Visit The Glass at their MySpace page.

Learn more about Eli Escobar here.

MP3: The Glass - Fourteen Again (EE Mix)

The B-52's Debut New Video

Enjoy the title track to their new LP, Funplex, below. Download a B-52's tune at bottom.


MP3: The B-52's - Hot Corner

The World Of B-Sides & Rarities, #594

Sons & Daughters - Live On WOXY

The Glasgow-based quartet performed:

Gilt Complex
The Nest
Rebel With The Ghost
Iodine
Goodbye Service

Read my review of S&D at Bowery Ballroom here.

MP3: Sons & Daughters - Live On WOXY

Shout Out Louds Perform At Brooklyn Bridge Subway

The Village Voice put the Swedes up to the challenge. Enjoy 'Normandie' below.


MP3: Shout Out Louds - Tonight I Have To Leave It

M.I.A. Reveals US Tour

All dates can be viewed below.

Purchase pre-sale tix here!

4/28: 4th & B: San Diego, CA
5/1: La Zona Rosa: Austin, TX
5/2: Palladium Ballroom: Dallas, TX
5/5: City Hall: Nashville, TN
5/8: Fillmore: Detroit, MI
5/9: Aragon Ballroom: Chicago, IL
5/12: Turner Hall Ballroom: Milwaukee, WI
5/13: Myth: Maplewood, MN
5/14: Liberty Hall: Lawrence, KS
5/17: Fillmore: Denver, CO
5/18: The Depot: Salt Lake City, UT
5/23: Roseland Theater: Portland, OR
6/6: McCarren Pool: Brooklyn, NY

MP3: M.I.A. - Boyz (RSD Remix)

M. Ward @ SXSW: Like A Prayer

After much internal debate, I'd have to award my favorite performance of SXSW 2008 to M. Ward's (mostly) solo set at St. David's Church on 7th Street. With a capacity just over 100, the show was intimate, breathtaking and downright spectacular. For the first half of the 45-minute gig, M. Ward played favorites from Post-War ('Rollercoaster', 'Poison Cup') alongside unreleased tracks, expected for inclusion on his new LP due out this summer.

For the latter section of the evening, M. Ward collaborated with My Morning Jacket frontman Jim James on roughly a half dozen tunes. While I adored Matt's duets with Conor Oberst at Bright Eyes' Bowery show last year, I think I appreciated this particular pairing even more. All in all, a truly phenomenal end to a terrific week in Austin, Texas.

Head to M. Ward's official site here. Enjoy a track from Transistor Radio at bottom.

MP3: M. Ward - Regeneration No. 1 [alt link]

The World Of B-Sides & Rarities, #593

Health - The Problem Is (Thrust Lab Mix)

An undeniably fierce reinterpretation!

Visit Health on MySpace.

Learn all about Thrust Lab here.

MP3: Health - The Problem Is (Thrust Lab Mix)

Jim Noir Visits MPR

Enjoy his SXSW performance of 'Computer Song' below. Visit JN on MySpace.


MP3: Jim Noir - Don't You Worry

The World Of B-Sides & Rarities, #592

Sufjan Stevens - We're Going To The Country

This tune can be found on Noel: Songs For Xmas, Volume 1.

Visit Asthmatic Kitty Records here.

MP3: Sufjan Stevens - We're Going... [alt link]

The Today Show Announces 2008 Summer Concert Performers

Check out this year's line-up below:

APRIL
25 Paula Abdul

MAY
2 Neil Diamond
9 Mary J. Blige
16 "Surprise Reunion"
23 Alanis Morissette
26 The B-52's
30 Donna Summer

JUNE
6 Chris Brown
13 Kenny Chesney
20 Rihanna
27 Coldplay

JULY
4 Ashlee Simpson
11 Rascal Flatts
18 Natasha Bedingfield
25 Miley Cyrus

AUGUST
1 Sheryl Crow

Yes, that's M. Lauer in drag as P. Hilton.

MP3: Coldplay - Clocks

The Washington Post Conducts Post-SXSW Q&As With DC Acts

Among the bands profiled:

Exit Clov
Le Loup
These United States
Jukebox The Ghost

Read their reactions to a hectic week in Austin here.

MP3: These United States - First Sight

Clinic Chats With The Spinner About New LP

Here's what the masked foursome had to say about Do It!: *"I think it's psychedelic in that it plays with your mind, but not in the 'rock' sense. There's no heavy solos or sludgy rhythms. This album is a lot brighter and melodic - almost easy listening in places. The approach was to make the songs and song structures a lot more twisted, inventive and playful."* Catch Clinic on their upcoming N. American tour.

MP3: Clinic - The New Seeker [alt link]

Langhorne Slim Recruiting NYers For Forthcoming Video

Here are all the necessary deets:

Monday, March 31
2:30pm - 6:30pm
The Box (189 Chrystie)

The clip will be for 'Rebel Side Of Heaven'.

Interested parties should e-mail Slim Video ASAP!

Learn more about Langhorne Slim on MySpace.

MP3: Langhorne Slim - Rebel Side Of Heaven

Rumor Of The Day: Sinead O To Write For Rihanna?

Ms. O'Connor tells Take 40: *"You'll always have people singing other people's songs, like you know, Rihanna for example - she hasn't written that song ('Don't Stop The Music'), do you know what I mean? In fact, I've been asked recently would I write some songs for her. So you know, zillions of people are singing other people's songs every day! I actually have not the slightest idea (what I'm going to write). They want to send me some backing tracks that they've already put together so that'll be a great help. But I've been studying her and I feel daunted actually by it because I don't know how to write pop songs, no matter how hard I try I cannot write a pop song, you know. So it's a challenge but I have to do it coz my son's in love with her!"*

MP3: Sinead O'Connor - Ave Maria

BBC Interviews Joan As Police Woman

Watch JAPW discuss the current state of punk below. Read about her sophomore LP here.


MP3: Joan As Police Woman - The Ride

A Place To Bury Strangers Records Daytrotter Session

The power trio performed the following set:

Never Going Down Again
Ocean
Missing You
I Know I'll See You

Download the full set here.

Visit APTBS on MySpace.

MP3: A Place To Bury Strangers - I Know...

The Raveonettes Visit Letterman

Watch 'Aly, Walk With Me' in the clip below. Visit The Raveonettes on MySpace.


MP3: The Raveonettes - Aly, Walk With Me

Muse Unleashes 'HAARP' Clips

The CD/DVD (from 2007's Wembley gigs) is out now. Enjoy 'Plug In Baby' below.


MP3: Muse - New Born

She & Him Announce First Dates Of US Tour

Their trek will include:

Apr 21 Hiro Ballroom: New York, New York
Apr 29 Vista Theatre: Los Angeles, California
May 18 Oysterfest: San Francisco, California

Visit the duo on MySpace.

MP3: She & Him - Why Do You...?

The World Of B-Sides & Rarities, #591

These New Puritans - Live On WOXY

I was disappointed with their set at Emo's...

But I simply adore this SXSW lounge session.

Learn more about TNP on MySpace.

MP3: These New Puritans - Live On WOXY

Junior Senior's Senior Gets To Work On Debut Solo LP

Senior (real name: Jeppe) is flying companionless!

Don't fret - this is NOT the end of Junior Senior.

But it IS the beginning of something (surely) magical.

Visit Jeppe at his brand new MySpace page.

We can't wait to hear what's in store.

MP3: Junior Senior - Move Your Feet

South Interviewed By Uncensored

Check out their SXSW survival tips & be sure to keep them in mind for next year!


MP3: South - Live On KEXP

Who The Hell Is *Alaska In Winter*?

Hails From: Albuquerque, New Mexico

Has Collaborated With: Beirut, A Hawk And A Hacksaw

Influences: M83, Royksopp, Erlend Oye, Ratatat

File Under: Balkan influenced indietronic

Visit AIW on MySpace.

MP3: Alaska In Winter - LP Sampler

The Hourly Radio Shares Demo For LP2

Enjoy 'The Corsair' at the band's MySpace page.

Speaking of The Hourly Radio...

We have some THR Remix EPs to give away.

Be one of the first 5 people to e-mail us & win!

View the short-player's track listing here.

MP3: The Hourly Radio - Gun In Hand

The World Of B-Sides & Rarities, #590

Panda Bear - Comfy In Nautica (XXXChange Remix)

Visit Panda Bear on MySpace.

Learn all about XXXChange here.

MP3: Panda Bear - Comfy... (XXXChange Remix)

Yelle Is MTV's Artist Of The Week

The French electro-popper takes over MTV.com through Monday. Here's a promo:


MP3: Yelle - A Cause Des Garcons (Remix)

Luke Temple Divulges Pair Of Gigs With Peter Moren

Catch both acts this spring at:

4/21 New York, NY: Mercury Lounge
4/22 Boston, MA: Middle East

Visit Luke Temple on MySpace.

Learn more about Peter Moren here.

MP3: Luke Temple - Private Shipwreck

ITN Interviews Hercules & Love Affair

Watch the Q&A (discussing Antony) below. Visit Hercules & Love Affair on MySpace.


MP3: Hercules & Love Affair - Blind (FK Remix)

V Festival Toronto Announces Initial Line-Up

Head to Canada on September 6th & 7th for:

Foo Fighters
Spiritualized
Bloc Party
Oasis
Paul Weller
Stereophonics

To check out the rest of the bill, head here.

MP3: Stereophonics - Maybe Tomorrow

The World Of B-Sides & Rarities, #589

Jens Lekman - I Don't Know If She's Worth 900 KR

A selection from 2005's Australian Tour EP.

Visit Jens at his official site.

MP3: Jens Lekman - I Don't Know If...

The Raveonettes Go Unplugged In Toronto

Check out a stripped-down take on 'Dead Sound' (recorded at Sonic Boom) below.


MP3: The Raveonettes - Dead Sound

Nina Simone's 'Protest Anthology' Released Next Month

An ultimate collection of rarities, interviews & classics. Complete track listing is as follows:

1. By Any Means Necessary (Interview)
2. Revolution
3. Mississippi Goddamn (Interview)
4. Mississippi Goddamn
5. Old Jim Crow (Interview)
6. Old Jim Crow
7. Backlash Blues (Interview)
8. Backlash Blues
9. Four Women (Interview)
10. Four Women
11. Nobody (Interview)
12. Nobody
13. I Wish I Knew How It Would...
14. Strange Fruit (Interview)
15. Strange Fruit
16. Definition Of An Artist
17. Why? The King Of Love Is Dead
18. To Be Young Gifted & Black (Interview)
19. To Be Young Gifted & Black

MP3: Nina Simone - Revolution

Wye Oak Reveals Brief North American Tour

Catch the buzz-worthy Baltimore-based duo at:

4.10 Baltimore MD @ G-Spot
4.12 Brooklyn NY @ Union Hall
4.13 Washington DC @ Black Cat
5.2 Toronto ON @ Sneaky Dee's

Visit Wye Oak on MySpace.

MP3: Wye Oak - Warning

Nada Surf Visits NPR's 'World Cafe'

The trio performed the following set:

Whose Authority
See These Bones
Weightless
I Like What I See

Listen to the full playback here.

MP3: Nada Surf - See These Bones

Moz Speaks Out On Headlining Slot At Wireless Festival

Of the gig, Morrissey exclaims: *"What is classical is what we all agree on, and I think we all acknowledge Hyde Park festivals as important events. I am honoured to be asked to headline on July 4th, marking my 26th year haunting British music, and following the Hyde Park greats - T.Rex, Joan Armatrading, and someone with insecure teeth. I promise a thundering bill of tight nerves and suavity and all your favourites from Disc magazine. I will take Hyde Park like a flea inhabits a dog. Art-hounds and people with badly cut hair are very welcome. I shall do my utmost not to pull a sour face. The sun will make up its own mind. It is, of course, the day when America celebrated its independence from Sidcup, but we can easily reverse that situation with a bit of John Mills stiff-upperness. Bring your own lodging-house towels, but don't expect any three-shrimp appetizers."* View the rest of 2008's bill here.

MP3: The Smiths - Still Ill

The Cure Performs New Tune At Wembley

Watch 'A Boy I Never Knew' below. Their new LP is due out sometime this summer.


MP3: The Cure - A Letter To Elise

The World Of B-Sides & Rarities, #588

The Answering Machine - Live On WOXY

Yet another stellar act from Manchester.

Learn more about TAM on MySpace.

Listen to WOXY here.

MP3: The Answering Machine - Live On WOXY

NME Conducts SXSW Interview With The Wombats

Watch Murph discuss his idea of sarcasm while hinting at plans for the UK festival season.


MP3: The Wombats - Let's Dance To Joy Division [alt link]

The World Of B-Sides & Rarities, #587

The Cribs - I'm A Realist (The Postal Service Mix)

Visit The Cribs on MySpace.

Check out the status of TPS's sophomore LP here.

MP3: The Cribs - I'm A Realist (TPS Mix) [alt link]

8 Questions With: Laura Palmer

During SXSW 2008, I fell in love with Dallas-based musician, Laura Palmer (who opened Day 1 of ATJ's BBQ). Learn all about the innovative and occasionally foul-mouthed artist via our exclusive interview below.

1. When listening to your debut album, Johnny Cashin' In, I can't help but think you'd be a perfect fit in NYC's anti-folk scene. What genre do you think your sound would fit best within (past or present)?

When people ask me what kind of music I play, I usually say "off beat folk music." I'm not anti-folk. I'm totally pro-folk. I'm a big, huge fucking folk music fan. I like Kris Kristofferson, Harry Nilsson, Bob Dylan (duh) and on and on. I like songs that are for the people. We all should be bummed that we're not living in the 60's. That was a good time to be weird.

2. With the success of the Juno soundtrack, it seems as if there's a sudden resurgence of female-fronted quirky acoustic music. What are your thoughts on this? Also, if Kimya D. invited you to tour with her, would you accept?

Am I the only one that hasn't seen Juno? She has the baby and drowns it, right? I guess there is some kind of a resurgence in the quirky lady acoustic music. I hope so. That'd be awesome for me. Judy Tenuda's got to pay her rent, too. And if Kimya Dawson asked me to tour with her, of course I'd accept. This ain't my first rodeo.

3. The vast majority of your songs rest on the fine line between brutal honesty and hilarious sarcasm. Is this an intentional or subconscious writing style?

Totally intentionally subconscious. It's a way of looking at things. I take humor pretty seriously. I think sarcasm's really serious. The only way to write is honestly, but the best way to get honest & still be fun to listen to is sarcasm. That line is an interesting puzzle.

4. Although you currently reside in Dallas, you've received a degree from NYU in 2001 (and consequently spent a good deal of time in New York). Can you tell me some of the things you miss most about living in the city?

Jewish people. They don't have those in Texas. Multiple vegan restaurants. Parades. The sense of history. World class museums and theater. The architecture. The cocaine.

5. If you had to name a handful of musical influences, whom would you select?

Do you mean besides R. Kelly? Violent Femmes, Jonathan Richman, Johnny Cash, Tiny Tim, John Prine, Dr. Hook, Paul Williams (especially the songs he wrote for The Muppets).

6. The lyrics to 'Ain't No Faggot' tell the story of a brainless frat boy (with homosexual tendencies) out to ridicule, tease or even physically hurt a gay classmate. Can you elaborate on the origin behind the tune?

You've actually created a very specific story from it. To me, it was really about 2 different kinds of homophobes: the secretly gay super homophobic rapist frat boy and the honky-tonk, shit-kickin', drag you behind his truck, Texas secretly gay homophobe. I guess y'all don't have those in New York. Anyway, my husband and I wrote it one night together after quite a few beers. We were ridiculing the sort of person the song is about, and the jokes just poured out. Those people always have some homosexual tendencies. Why else would they become so enraged by the idea of homosexuality? Absurd.

7. Your drummer, James, is quite the character. How did you two find each other and does he always wear the (genius) flower headdress?

He's been drumming with me for the better part of a year now. We met through my husband, who is also in a band with James. He doesn't always wear "the flower". Sometimes he wears "the boy scout". I generally wear "the sailor" or "the Hitler".

8. Any slutty advice for our dear readers as we enter spring?

Dear readers: If you choose to be a slut this spring (and it is your choice for now), do protect yourselves. You don't want to end up like Juno, blind with madness as a consequence of postpartum depression, raving about St. Michael The Archangel as you drown your bastard child in the bathtub. And you definitely don't want to get herpes, either. All the dudes in New York have it. Seriously!

Learn more about Laura Palmer at her official MySpace page.

Sub Pop Offers 2008 Collegiate Scholarship

Here are the deets courtesy of a recent MySpace bulletin: *Sub Pop Records in Seattle, WA is offering a grand total of $13,000 worth of college scholarship money to three eligible high school seniors. There are three scholarships - one for $6,000 and two for $3,500 each. To apply for these scholarships you must be a resident of Washington or Oregon, and a graduating senior on your way to full-time enrollment at an accredited university or college. We are looking for an applicant who is involved and/or interested in music and/or the creative arts in some way. To apply for these scholarships we would like you to submit an essay, no longer than one page...* For further information, head here.

MP3: Foals - Balloons

Sigur Ros Debuts New Song At Intimate Iceland Gig

A few weeks back, we told you about the closing of Sirkus. Here's SR's contribution:


MP3: Sigur Ros - Von

The World Of B-Sides & Rarities, #586

Lightspeed Champion - Live On WOXY

Another fabulous session from SXSW 2008.

Visit Lightspeed Champion's official site here.

MP3: Lightspeed Champion - Live On WOXY

Who The Hell Is *Stroik*?

Hails From: North Carolina

File Under: Shoegazing electro

Sounds Like: Cut Copy with a Pornography-era Cure obsession

Visit Stroik on MySpace.

MP3: Stroik - Slide Right By [alt link]

Feist Interviewed At Vancouver Folk Fest

Watch part 1 from the Q&A below. Enjoy the second half here. MP3 at bottom.


MP3: Feist - So Sorry

'Yo! MTV Raps' Returns In April

The show celebrates its 20th anniversary next month.

Special features include:

-Vintage playlists
-Exclusive interviews
-Classic videos

For more info, head here.

MP3: Salt & Pepa - Sexy Noises Turn Me On

Post #5555: Thom Yorke Guest Edits 'The Observer'

Radiohead's frontman sits down with Ken Livingstone.

(Also known as Mayor of London)

Read the full piece (discussing climate change) here.

MP3: Radiohead - Idioteque

Cat Power Soundtracks Urban Outfitters Ad

Here's UO's Early Spring Collection & Cat Power's 'Metal Heart'. Visit CP on MySpace.


MP3: Cat Power - Metal Heart

Locksley & Rooney Team Up For Spring Trek

The 1st leg of the indie-poppin' bill is as follows:

4/28 Avalon Theater, Salt Lake City
4/29 Fox Theatre & Cafe, Boulder
5/1 Sokol Underground, Omaha
5/2 The Annex, Madison
5/3 The Canopy Club, Urbana
5/5 House Of Blues, Chicago
5/6 St. Andrew's Hall, Detroit
5/7 Bogart's, Cincinnati
5/8 Exit/In, Nashville

Visit Locksley at their MySpace page.

MP3: Locksley - Why Not Me?

MGMT Releases 3-D Version Of 'Pretend' Video

A true visual roller-coaster ride.

Watch the clip at Spinner.

Visit MGMT on MySpace.

MP3: MGMT - Time To Pretend

Kate Walsh Announces US Tour

Catch the London-based folkster at:

5/12 - Douglas Fir - Portland, OR
5/13 - Tractor Tavern - Seattle, WA
5/15 - Cafe Du Nord - San Francisco, CA
5/16 - Roxy - Los Angeles, CA
5/20 - Club Deville - Austin, TX
5/22 - Eddies Attic - Decatur, GA
5/24 - Iota - Arlington, VA
5/25 - Johnny Brenda's - Philadelphia, PA
5/26 - Mercury Lounge - New York, NY
5/27 - Middle East - Cambridge, MA
5/29 - Club Cafe - Pittsburgh, PA
5/30 - Schubas - Chicago, IL
5/31 - Cafe Montmarte - Madison, WI
6/1 - Duck Room - St. Louis, MO
6/3 - Soiled Dove - Denver, CO

Visit Kate at her MySpace page.

MP3: Kate Walsh - Your Song

The Walkmen Record Daytrotter Session

Leonard Cohen enthusiasts, rejoice.

The band played the following covers:

The Old Revolution
Lady Midnight
Tonight Will Be Fine
Passin' Through

Enjoy the full set here.

MP3: The Walkmen - The Rat (Live)

The World Of B-Sides & Rarities, #585

Tori Amos - Little Drummer Boy

Performed during a '92 tour stop in Baltimore.

Visit Tori at her official site.

MP3: Tori Amos - Little Drummer Boy [alt link]

The Kills Interviewed By Uncensored

Enjoy a pre-SXSW Q&A with the London-based duo below. Visit The Kills on MySpace.


MP3: The Kills - Live On WOXY

Guillemots Visit 'Lily Allen & Friends'

Enjoy Red's 'Get Over It' below. Visit the band at their official MySpace page.


MP3: Guillemots - Last Kiss [alt link]

Richard Cheese To Cover Radiohead & Smiths On New LP

Grab a partner and dosey-do!

Back In Black Tie will be released this fall.

Visit the Vegas-based lounge act on MySpace.

MP3: Richard Cheese - Hate To Say I Told You So

The World Of B-Sides & Rarities, #584

Sunny Day Sets Fire - Wilderness (CSS Mix)

Sao Paulo's finest plus up-and-coming Londoners equals...

Learn all about SDSF on MySpace.

Visit CSS at their official site.

MP3: Sunny Day Sets Fire - Wilderness (CSS Mix)

George Michael Reveals First North American Trek In 17 Years

Faithful fans can catch him at:

June 17: San Diego/Sports Arena
June 19: San Jose/HP Pavilion
June 21: Las Vegas/MGM Grand
June 22: Phoenix/US Airways Center
June 25: Los Angeles/Great Western Forum
July 2: Seattle/Key Arena
July 4: Vancouver/General Motors Place
July 7: St. Paul/Xcel Energy Center
July 9: Chicago/United Center
July 13: Dallas/American Airlines Center
July 14: Houston/Toyota Center
July 17: Toronto/Air Canada Centre
July 18: Montreal/Bell Centre
July 21: New York/MSG
July 23: New York/MSG
July 26: Philadelphia/Wachovia Center
July 27: Boston/TD Banknorth Garden
July 29: DC/Verizon Center
July 31: Atlanta/Philips Arena
Aug. 2: Tampa/St. Pete Times Forum
Aug. 3: Sunrise/Bank Atlantic Center

MP3: Wham! - Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go

BBC Interviews Sons & Daughters

Check out their SXSW 2008 Q&A below. Read my review of Saturday's S&D gig here.


MP3: Sons & Daughters - Broken Bones [alt link]

Robyn Announces Full North American Tour

Sing your troubles away at:

Tue 29 Apr 08
Boston
Paradise

Wed 30 Apr 08
Philadelphia
Theater Of Living Arts

Fri 2 May 08
New York
Grand Ballroom @ Hammerstein

Sun 4 May 08
Montreal
La Tulipe

Mon 5 May 08
Toronto
Phoenix Concert Theatre

Wed 7 May 08
Chicago
Park West

Tue 13 May 08
Portland
Berbati's Pan

Wed 14 May 08
Seattle
Neumos

Fri 16 May 08
San Francisco
Bimbo's

Sat 17 May 08
Los Angeles
Wiltern Theatre

Visit Robyn on MySpace.

MP3: Robyn - Be Mine

MMM #103

Home Video - I Can Make You Feel It

Make Believe - Just Green Enough

*Liz Janes - Wonderkiller*

Braid - Killing A Camera

Shannon Noll - Loud

Patrick Wolf: Ready To 'Leave The Circus Behind'

He shares the following text on his official MySpace blog: *I always feel at the beginning stages of making my albums that I have to almost select the twelve strongest stories and connect them via blood type, make a family out of them, make a home for them, connect the dots to create a whole, a possession for you to own... it's a tricky process. The writing of the songs is easy, the putting together is the puzzle game. After The Magic Position, I have decided to leave the circus behind, those days are done. It is time to embrace a new age, a stronger, darker, battlefield, warrior, Tyburn Tree, internal investigations, operations of broken and fragmented heart, to analyze the open endless roads I have traveled in the last six years... I am going back to my roots now. After traveling traveling traveling from continent to continent, I find I am happiest and most productive when close to my birthplace. I'm a South Londoner again & it feels fantastic.*

MP3: P. Wolf - The Magic Position (Remix)

The Lisps Featured On KEXP's 'Equalizer'

Watch the piece below (which also features Pool Of Frogs & Welcome To Ashley)!


MP3: The Lisps - Brackish Water

Sons & Daughters @ Bowery: Rebels With The Ghost

It's been roughly a year since I last saw (insanely brilliant) Scottish 4-piece, Sons & Daughters. While the band focused on their 2005 release (The Repulsion Box) during my last encounter, Saturday night's set concentrated primarily on S&D's brand new LP, This Gift. Decked out in a swarm of gold sequins, frontwoman Adele Bethel stormed the stage for a blissful and fervent take on the gig-opening, 'Gilt Complex'. For the next hour, Sons & Daughters continued their aural assault without so much as a 15-second pause. Brightest moments of the captivating evening: a ferocious rendering of 'Rama Lama', an all-out dance-a-thon during 'Chains' & an infectious show-closing 'House In My Head'.

Visit Sons & Daughters at their MySpace page. Complete setlist, photos & an MP3 below.



Setlist: Gilt Complex. Flags. Hunt. The Nest. Red Receiver. Rebel With The Ghost. Iodine. Taste The Last Girl. Darling. Rama Lama. Dance Me In. Goodbye Service. Chains... Johnny Cash. House In My Head.

MP3: Sons & Daughters - The Nest

Who The Hell Is *The Pharmacy*?

Hails From: Seattle, Washington

File Under: Orchestral/psychedelic indie-pop

Toured With: Matt & Kim, Jeffrey Lewis, Kimya Dawson

Visit The Pharmacy at their MySpace page.

MP3: The Pharmacy - Mirror

Adam Green Debuts New Tune On 'The Latest Show'

Enjoy an untitled (yet lovely) ditty below. Visit Adam at his MySpace page.


MP3: Adam Green - Morning After Midnight

The World Of B-Sides & Rarities, #583

The Whip - Live On WOXY

Their very 1st American performance included:

Sister Siam
Frustration
Divebomb
Blackout
Trash

Visit the Manchester-based buzz band on MySpace.

MP3: The Whip - Live On WOXY

Out Magazine Highlights Top Gender-Bending Songs

The publication picked the following:

1. Lou Reed - Walk On The Wild Side
2. Hedwig & The Angry Inch - Wig In A Box
3. Aerosmith - Dude (Looks Like A Lady)
4. Bitch & Animal - Best Cock On The Block
5. James - Laid
6. Cyndi Lauper - Ballad Of Cleo & Joe
7. The Killers - Somebody Told Me
8. The Kinks - Lola

For explanations & further selections, head here.

MP3: Hedwig & The Angry Inch - Wig In A Box

DeVotchKa Visits MPR

Enjoy A Mad & Faithful Telling's 'Transliterator' below. Visit the band on MySpace.


MP3: DeVotchKa - Venus In Furs

The World Of B-Sides & Rarities, #582

The Long Winters - Ultimatum

The title track to 2005's 6-track EP.

Visit TLW at their official site.

MP3: The Long Winters - Ultimatum

Simian Mobile Disco Visits KEXP & New York Noise

Watch the duo perform 'It's The Beat' below. Read my review of SMD's live show here.


MP3: Simian Mobile Disco - Hustler (AVH Remix)

Hercules & Love Affair Reveals UK Trek With Nomi

Catch both Antony collaborators at:

May 23: Parlure Spiegeltent::Brighton
May 24: Warehouse::Manchester
May 25: Dot To Dot Festival::Bristol
May 26: Evolution::Newcastle
May 28: Rescue Rooms::Nottingham
May 29: Barfly::Liverpool
May 30: Classic Grand::Glasgow
May 31: Wax On::Leeds
Jun 3: Soho Revue::London
Jun 4: Soho Revue::London
Jun 5: Heaven::London

Visit Nomi on MySpace.

MP3: Hercules & Love Affair - Blind (Club Remix)

Born Ruffians Interviewed By Altitude

Check out their SXSW Q&A below. Learn all about Born Ruffians on MySpace.


MP3: Born Ruffians - Foxes Mate For Life

The Big Sleep Records WOXY Lounge Session

The Brooklyn-based 3-piece performed:

Little Sister
The Big Guns
Bad Blood
Tigers In Our Hearts

Learn more about TBS on MySpace.

MP3: The Big Sleep - Live On WOXY

The World Of B-Sides & Rarities, #581

Charlotte Martin - Wild Horses

It's hard to go wrong with a stellar Stones cover.

Learn more about Charlotte at her official site.

MP3: Charlotte Martin - Wild Horses

Jukebox The Ghost & The XYZ Affair Team Up For Spring Tour

Catch both buzz acts at:

May 1: Mt. Vernon Park; Baltimore, Maryland
May 2: Maxwell's; Hoboken, New Jersey
May 3: Black Cat; Washingon, DC
May 5: The Earl; Atlanta, Georgia
May 6: Caledonia Lounge; Athens, Georgia
May 7: Local 506; Chapel Hill, North Carolina
May 8: Black Cat; Boone, North Carolina
May 9: The Khyber; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
May 10: Mercury Lounge; New York, New York

Visit JTG on MySpace.

MP3: Jukebox The Ghost - Live On WOXY

Birdmonster Debuts New Track At SXSW 2008

Their sophomore LP is due out this summer. Enjoy 'I Might Have Guessed' below.


MP3: Birdmonster - Alabama

A Tour Blog: Salt & Samovar SXSW Tour '08 - Chicago

Local heroes Salt & Samovar head north from Austin to the cold winds of Chicago where they find home cooked food and a slew of waiting fans...

Driving through northwest Texas towards Chicago, you come upon Texarkana. I think this is the closest we have to the silkroad in America. Just as the lands of central Asia are a mix of Middleeastern, Russian, + Chinese culture, so to Texarkana is a crossroads of Texans, Arkansasians (?) + Louisianaites. The dry desert shrubs meet with the swampy cajun forests, the land is dark. The air a mix of syrup + cool northern winds. As you follow the Mississippi north, reaching the nations heartland, the forests pull back to reveal rolling farmlands--a sea of brown + green patches. We stopped for lunch in Marion, Illinois. An old ghost town, with banners of Christian sayings. The center of town is old brick buildings with the classic American white painted buildings. As we looked through the gear at a Salvation Army, the loud speaker preached a didactic sermon on why we are all sinners. We took this information for free - the seersucker suits were a bit more...

In Chicago, I visited with my Grandparents + uncle. They are in their 90s + their love beams like the sun. We ate Jewish food + sat around the table drinking tea, eating mandlebread, + talking. My grandfather told me about the time he was hidden in the forest of the Ukraine, so that the Khazaks could not get him. His brother came to find him + they walked all the way to Hungary. Our show was scheduled for 9:30, but Kelli's flight was delayed out of JFK. We weren't sure if she would make it, but she did 10 minutes before our set. We went right on + played for a half an hour. It went well, + we were all surprised when some people showed up singing along to our songs. That is always the best feeling. People requested "Soon To Be The Dust" as an encore. We were happy to oblige.

Our friends Pool Of Frogs set up the show + were very supportive to us the whole time. Sweet guys. They played an electrifying set. Will, the drummer stands up + yells during breakdowns. When the lead guitarist is not shredding, he throws confetti on his bandmates. All members sing along with each other, staring into each others' eyes like they are on cloud nine. Their songs rock smooth + heavy - a bit like the pixies in their more twangy moments. The night went on for a long time, as we had cousins + old friends at the show. All the bands decided that we'd have to do it again. Next year in Jerusalem.

Los Campesinos! Interviewed By Uncensored

Watch the female contingent of LC discuss hysteria during SXSW 2008 below.


MP3: Los Campesinos! - We Throw Parties, You Throw Knives

Chris Garneau Reveals 2008 Euro Tour

All dates can be viewed below:

Apr 17 Bourges, France @ PDB
Apr 22 Lausanne, France @ Le Romandie
Apr 26 Utrecht, Holland @ Ekko
Apr 27 Amsterdam, Holland @ Paradisio
Apr 28 Rotterdam, Holland @ Rotown
May 2 Berlin, Germany @ Magnet Club
May 4 H-Berg, Germany @ Karlstorbahnhof
May 5 Hamburg, Germany @ Molotow
May 6 Kortrijk, Belgium @ De Kreun
May 7 Amsterdam, Holland @ Paradisio
May 9 Dijon, France @ Kill Your Pop Fest
May 10 Bruxelles, Belgium @ Festival LNB
May 19 London, England @ Ulu
May 20 Manchester, England @ Roadhouse
May 21 Glasgow, Scotland @ NiceNSleazy
May 22 Dublin, Ireland @ Whelans
May 27 Orleans, France @ Astrolabe
May 31 Nancy, France @ L'Autre Canal
June 1 Paris, France @ Bastille

Visit Chris at his MySpace page.

MP3: Chris Garneau - Not Nice

Klaxons Interviewed By New York Noise

Watch the just-released Q&A below. NYN begins its eighth season this weekend!


MP3: Klaxons - Atlantis To Interzone (My Gay Husband Remix)

Rumor Of The Day: Is Moz Suing 'The Word'?

The Guardian's blog declares: *For all the many very annoying things and unsatisfactory things about The Word's fifth birthday edition, this issue contains one piece of writing so invigoratingly impassioned and astute that it justifies the existence of the whole magazine. The article concerned is an all-out frontal assault on the aesthetic and ethical shortcomings of Morrissey's latest Greatest Hits. But more important than either its subject matter, or its acuity, or even the rumors that its well-aimed barbs have stung their target into his now seemingly reflex threats of legal action (Can you be sued for saying that Morrissey and his band 'sound like Will Young and Nine Below Zero rehearsing in a very bad pub'? I don't think any court in the land would convict.) is how closely the identity of its author - 1980's NME survivor turned Harry Hill helpmeet David Quantick - conforms to the standard Word contributor's template.*

Read the full entry here.

MP3: Morrissey - I'm Not Sorry

Microfilm Covers Cat Power

First, they tackled The Magnetic Fields.

Now, the Chicago-based duo channels Chan Marshall.

Listen to their fierce take on 'Free' via MySpace.

MP3: Microfilm - Idiosynchronicity [alt link]

The World Of B-Sides & Rarities, #580

Kate Nash - Men's Needs

A Music Slut approved Cribs cover.

Visit Kate at her MySpace page.

MP3: Kate Nash - Men's Needs [alt link]

Poingly Releases New Album For Free

Download So Sue Me at his official site.

Learn more about the NY-based performance artist here.

Photo courtesy of Bryan B.

MP3: Poingly - Justify My Love

The World Of B-Sides & Rarities, #579

Ed Harcourt - Live On WOXY

His SXSW 2008 set included:

You Put A Spell On Me
Fireflies Take Flight
The Last Cigarette
Until Tomorrow Then

Visit Ed Harcourt on MySpace.

MP3: Ed Harcourt - Live On WOXY

Kaiser Chiefs Frontman Drops Hints On LP3

Watch Ricky Wilson chat with BBC below. Visit Kaiser Chiefs at their official site.


MP3: Kaiser Chiefs - Oh My God (Demo)

Cassettes Won't Listen Debuts New Video

Enjoy Small-Time Machine's 'Paper Float' below. Visit CWL on MySpace. MP3 at bottom.


MP3: Cassettes Won't Listen - Paper Float

Shout Out Louds Cover Chicago

Enjoy their (mega-brilliant) SXSW take on 'If You Leave Me Now' in the clip below.


MP3: Shout Out Louds - Tonight I Have To Leave It

Joan As Police Woman: LP2 Tracks, Duet, Warm-Up Gigs

To Survive is out on June 10th.

It bears the following tunes:

Honor Wishes
Holiday
To Be Loved
To Be Lonely
Magpies
Start Of My Heart
Hard White Wall
Furious
To Survive
To America (feat. Rufus Wainwright)

Catch Joan previewing her sophomore effort at:

April 17th: Roundhouse, London
May 15th: Mercury Lounge, New York

Visit Joan at her MySpace page.

MP3: Joan As Police Woman - The Ride

BBC Interviews The Duke Spirit

Watch a Q&A with TDS frontwoman (Liela Moss) below. Learn more about the band here.


MP3: The Duke Spirit - Cuts Across The Land

Mason Proper Records Daytrotter Session

The Michigan natives performed:

Only A Moment
Raise The Line
The Bone Men
Safe For The Time Being

Download the full set here.

Visit Mason Proper on MySpace.

MP3: Mason Proper - My My (Bad Fruit)

Mussels Record WOXY Lounge Session

The Brooklynites performed a sublime set yesterday afternoon.

Learn more about the band on MySpace.

Listen to WOXY here.

Photo courtesy of Bob Martus.

MP3: Mussels - Live On WOXY

Nada Surf Visits Leno

Visit NS at their official site. Watch a clip from the band's MySpace session here.


MP3: Nada Surf - Blankest Year

Tegan & Sara: Backstage Bilingual, Episode 7 (Series Finale)

In this last segment, the duo chats with Laura from Amsterdam. Visit T&S on MySpace.


MP3: Tegan & Sara - Walking With A Ghost

Yacht @ SXSW: Magic Is Real

One of the strongest and most noteworthy electro acts that I managed to catch during my venture to Austin was Portland-based duo, Yacht. With alternating male-female vocals and a MacBook in tow, the pair delivered a vivacious, fist-pumping set (ending Day 1's festivities at The Fader Fort). I like to think of Yacht as the West Coast equivalent to Brooklyn's Free Blood. Deliciously lighthearted, freakishly fun. Learn more about the band at their official site. Photo courtesy of Miss Katie Kramer. MP3 at bottom of post.

MP3: Yacht - See A Penny (Pick It Up)

NME Asks 'Who Is The Greatest Rock Band Ever'?

Readers of the music mag have begun voting online.

Here's the current Top 10:

1. The Clash
2. The Jimi Hendrix Experience
3. The Rolling Stones
4. Led Zeppelin
5. Joy Division
6. Nirvana
7. The Sex Pistols
8. The Who
9. The Smiths
10. The Stone Roses

Voice your opinion on the list here.

MP3: Joy Division - She's Lost Control

Stephin Merritt Visits 'The Latest Show', Part 2

If you missed the 1st segment, head here. Q&A plus 'My Little Ukulele' below.


MP3: The Magnetic Fields - The Village In The Morning [alt link]

The World Of B-Sides & Rarities, #578

Headlights - Tokyo

A selection from 2005's The Enemies EP.

Learn more about Headlights on MySpace.

MP3: Headlights - Tokyo

KT Tunstall Visits 'So You Think You Can Dance'

Watch her perform 'Saving My Face' (from the Aussie version of the hit show) below.


MP3: KT Tunstall - Black Horse & The Cherry Tree

Sondre Lerche Visits PCTV

Watch 'To Be Surprised' below. Learn more about Park City Television here.


MP3: Sondre Lerche - Face The Blood [alt link]