Austin City Limits - Radiohead

Check out the Austin City Limits taping of Radiohead.
Here is the setlist:
1.  Bloom
2.  Daily Mail
3.  Myxomatosis
4.  Morning Mr. Magpie
5.  The Amazing Sounds of Orgy
6.  Staircase
7.  Identikit
8.  There There
9.  Feral
10.  Ideoteque
11.  Paranoid Android

Playlist of the Week #25

Here are some tasty tunes to enjoy this week.  Please watch the Al Green video, as it is one of my favorite recorded performances ever (the first video).  Enjoy your weeks. Cheers!

1.  How Can I Tell You - Cat Stevens
2.  Crazy Love - Van Morrison
3.  Bring It On Home To Me - The Animals
4.  Breakin' The Chains of Love - Fitz and The Tantrums
5.  Got The Hunger - Alice Russell
6.  Ah Yeah - Robert Glasper Experiment
7.  Uncle Sam Goddamn - Brother Ali
8.  Wish You Were Here - Lee Fields and the Expressions
9.  For Once In My Life - Stevie Wonder
10.  Let's Stay Together - Al Green

New Atoms For Peace

Many remember Thom Yorke's 2010 solo album 'The Eraser' and subsequent tour.  This supergroup consisting of Thom Yorke, Nigel Godrich (Radiohead's producer), and Red Hot Chili Pepper's Flea, was later named Atoms For Peace.  Since the 2010 tour, the group has taken a backstage stance as Yorke and Godrich busied themselves with Radiohead's "King of Limbs" album and tour, and Flea with RHCP's "I'm With You".  With the exception of some DJ sets and a remix here and there, this new project has remained rather inactive.  Until this week that is, when Yorke announced a new track by the band, Default, and an expected album release in the next year.  With one listen to the new tune, no Thom Yorke fan should be surprised or disappointed.  Yorke's known obsession with glitchy electronic music and frequent collaborations with Flying Lotus and Modselektor shine through this new groove.  Have a listen here!

David Byrne & St. Vincent "Love This Giant"

Yesterday, David Byrne (Talking Heads) and Annie Clark, better known as St. Vincent, released their long awaited collaboration album, "Love This Giant".  After one listen this morning, I highly encourage you all to give the record a good once over.  If you are a Talking Heads fan you will love the bouncy, hypnotic tunes reminiscent of the Heads' hit album "Fear of Music".  If you are a St. Vincent fan you will adore the way her curiously, beautiful voice compliments Byrne's in 'Who' and 'The One Who Broke Your Heart', as well as her numerous solo tracks on the album.  Overall, this album grooves.  It is carried along by a prominent brass section that creates the backbeat to the two artists' vocal and lyrical experimentation.  Be sure to pick up a copy of this album!  And have a listen to the hit track "Who" below.

New 'Muse' ic

Yesterday, Muse released their first single off the upcoming album, The 2nd Law.  The track is titled 'Madness'; and although it does not reach the full dubstep of 'unsustainable', there is still an underlying electronic influence heard in the warped bass that pulses throughout the song.  But unlike the forementioned song, 'Madness' contains a screaming Bellamy solo that ties them to their rock roots despite this sudden push in a new direction.  The new album is released October 2nd and Madness is available now on Muse's site.

Give it a listen now!

Axelrad New EP

Only 4 months after the release of their debut EP, Itai and Eden Axelrad are back with a summer EP to keep our thirsty ears quenched.  And after a few listens to the new EP, these drum and bass samples did not fail to satisfy.  With only a small number of songs under their belt, Axelrad has already managed to develop its own, unique sound.  Swirling ambient synths dodge the heavy snare and bass syncopations to create an experimental sound without being esoteric and turning away listeners.  With this fast pace release of music, I can only say I am anxious to hear what comes next from our local siamese samplers.

Enjoy the new summer EP for free HERE

Playlist of the Week #24

1.  Greenback Boogie - Ima Robot
2.  One Wing - Wilco
3.  The Dead Dog - Portugal. The Man
4.  Evening - Tops
5.  She Was Out In The Water - One Little Plane
6.  Into The Black - Chromatics
7.  Without You - Junip
8.  The Weight - Aretha Franklin
9.  Im Shakin' - Jack White
10.  Dead and Gone - The Black Keys
11.  Bright Lights - Gary Clark Jr.
12.  Wish You Were Here - Lee Fields & The Expressions

Album of the Week

Gorillaz - 'Plastic Beach'
March 2010

1.  Orchestral Intro
2.  Welcome To The World of The Plastic Beach (ft. Snoop Dogg)
3.  White Flag
4.  Rhinestone Eyes
5.  Stylo
6.  Superfast Jellyfish
7.  Empire Ants
8.  Glitter Freeze
9.  Some Kind of Nature
10.  On Melancholy Hill
11.  Broken
12.  Sweepstakes
13.  Plastic Beach
14.  To Binge
15.  Cloud Unknown
16.  Pirate Jet

Blur - "Under The Westway"

This past week, Blur debuted two new songs; "Under The Westway" and "The Puritan".  Yesterday, they released an intimate studio performance of the former.  Although frontman Damon Albarn's had previously stated that Blur would never again release an album, the recent action from the band leads many eager fans to anticipate an upcoming release.  We can only hope!
Here is the beautiful new track, "Under The Westway"

Album of the Week

Fleetwood Mac - 'Rumours'
1.  Second Hand News
2.  Dreams
3.  Never Going Back Again
4.  Don't Stop
5.  Go On Your Own Way
6.  Songbird
7.  The Chain
8.  You Make Lovin' Fun
9.  I don't Wanna Know
10.  Oh Daddy
11. Gold Dust Woman

Playlist of the Week #23

Hey friends,
I will be gone for the weekend and have been quite busy living the retired life of summer; but in the meantime I got some tunes for you all to check out.  Please enjoy : )

1.  Always Shine - Robert Glasper Experiment (ft. Lupe Fiasco and Bilal)
2.  Yesterday - Atmosphere
3.  The Color Of Tempo - Prefuse 73
4.  Find Enjoyment - Ray Barbee
5.  Bang Bang - Dispatch
6.  Don't Wait for Me - Josh Garrells
7.  She Was Out In the Water - One Little Plane
8.  Out on the Road - Norah Jones
9.  It's Only Life - The Shins
10.  Beggar In The Morning - The Barr Brothers

Ok Computer Day

Today marks the 15th year anniversary of the release of Radiohead's third, and most acclaimed studio album, 'Ok Computer'.  The album was released in UK June 16th, 1997.  It has sold over 4.5 million copies worldwide and is considered by many to be one of the most classic and influential records of the modern age.  If you have never listened to it, do it now!  If you have listened already, well do it again!
Enjoy!

Playlist of the Week #22

Hey friends and family,
Hope you are enjoying this summer weather.  For those lying out in the sun, here are some tunes.  I am going to try and put them on playlist.com so you can easily listen.  Let me know if you have problems or if it works out for you!  As always, any feedback is encouraged (its nice to know the music finds ears).
Take care,
Cody

Have a listen here!  
username:  notefornote
password:  abcdefg

1. Reservations - Wilco
2. Fake Empire - The National
3. Greatest - Cat Power
4. I'm So Tired - Fugazi
5. All I Need - Radiohead
6. Across The Universe - Fiona Apple
7. Without You - Junip
8. Under The Milky Way - The Church
9. Everybody Hurts - R.E.M
10. From Hank To Hendrix - Neil Young
11. Forever Young - Bob Dylan

Muse - The 2nd Law - Album Trailer

                   Mark your calenders.  Muse has just announced the release of a new album, 'The Second Law', to be this coming September.  I am sure we can expect another long and epic tour from the group as was the case with their last release.  Get excited!

Check out this dubsteppish teaser for the new album.  As we can see, Matthew Bellamy is not straying far from his politically driven themes.

Upcoming Shows to See

1.  Neil Young& Crazy Horse @
-The Hollywood Bowl 10/17

2.  Jack White @
-Shrine Auditorium in LA 8/10

3.  My Morning Jacket @
-The Wiltern 9/11
-The Wiltern 9/12
-The Wiltern 9/13
-The Greek Theatre (Berkeley) 9/15

4.  Bonobo (DJ Set) @
-El Rey Theatre 7/27
-Mezzanine Theatre 7/28

5.  Fitz and the Tantrums w/ Ben Harper
-Santa Barbara Bowl - 6/30
-Hollywood Bowl - 7/01

Sigur Ros 'Valtari' Review

           Sigur Ros is hard to describe.  When one dwells upon the music of the Icelandic post-rock band, many words seem to jump out at you; soft, joyful, and most obviously, beautiful.  But the sum of these words alone do not even come close to capturing what it is that fans and casual listeners alike find in the music.
           'Valtari', Sigur Ros' latest contribution, is no different from other albums in that it is indescribable.  Not indescribable as in the trite way of calling it beautiful (which, yeah it is), but rather that it seems an impossible task to put a finger on what about the music is so entrancing.  The mystery in the album seems to be that though we try, no long winded metaphors seem to capture it.
             Although those that do listen seem to be in love with the band, the music is not immediately accessible to the casual listener.  But maybe this is part of it, taking a big leap out of your comfort zone with only faith that Sigur Ros will catch you.  This sentiment is more true with 'Valtari' than ever before.  The album lacks the tangible melodies found in Takk and ( ), and instead replaces them with textures and minimalistic ambiance.  Although this post rock setting is not new for the band, the stillness of the last 3 songs will pass right over you as if they were never there.  The title of the album, 'Valtari', which translates to 'steamroller' is not far off in describing the album.  Slow, almost glacial progressions roll by, flattening all in their path. As lead singer Jonsi Birgisson puts it, "The album rolls right over you, in a good way."
             The music is atmospheric.  And like the wind, it is strong at times and barely detectable at others, yet as it passes you, you know it is there.  The warm strings that are heavy throughout the album fill the silence with intangible noise; as if mother nature had a voice and she spoke through Sigur Ros.  This is most noticeable in the early released track, Ekki Mukk.  As Birgisson's falsetto voice calls out, the strings fill out all the space behind him.
              The album reaches its climax in the third track, Varuo, when all the scattered noise comes together with the drums and builds to an epic conclusion reminiscent of prior hits such as Glosoli and Festival.  One of my favorite tracks on the album, Dauologn, comes soon after as though to recover from the clattering apex of Varuo.  This ballad emphasizes Jonsi's unique voice and lifts it up on clouds of textured strings and guitars.  When his voice steps up an octave, the noise flows in and out with  vacillating pulses.
             We have all had those moments when we feel so peaceful we are almost brought to tears.  Whether it be when you are driving alone with windows rolled down not a thought on your mind, or sitting in a park in pure bliss; 'spiritual' does not do these justice and they can only be described as 'moments'.  Sigur Ros has a gift of capturing these moments and providing the soundtrack.  The music creeps up on you and gets inside of you.  There are times in the album that leave the stomach empty as if you were falling from the sky in slow motion.  And although this album is not, at first listen, accessible like many of the past have been, it is one that with time will present its beauty.  It is not the album that you will play for others when showing them the band, or the album you will throw on in the car when you want to sing along; rather it is the album that you will fall in love with, and if you let it, if you take the trust fall, will change you.

Playlist of the Week #21

Hello,
Sorry the posts have been a bit lacking lately... but here is a playlist I am really excited about.  Hope you all enjoy.  And as always, if you would like this or any of the playlists on cd, let me know.
1.  Fool For a Cigarette - Ry Cooder
2.  Do the Do - Howlin Wolf
3.  Moondance - Van Morrison
4.  Dancing in the Dark - Cannonball Adderly
5.  Autumn Leaves - Paul Desmond
6.  Black Gold - Esperanza Spalding
7.  Tightrope - Janelle Monae
8.  If I Ain't Got You - Alicia Keys
9.  Tobacco Road - Common Market
10.  Storm Returns - Prefuse 73
11.  The Keeper - Bonobo
12.  Thistle - Hundred Waters
13.  Daft Punk - One More Time

Norah Jones - Little Broken Hearts

3 years since her last record, Norah Jones released her new album, Little Broken Hearts, on May 1st.  The 33 year old singer-songwriter made her mark in the music industry back in 2002 with the release of the unforgettable, Come Away With Me, that paved her path as a jazzy new talent.  And although her new album is receiving the credit it deserves, the question seems to be whether this apparent change in musical direction will serve her well.
  After even one listen, it should strike nobody as a surprise that the album was produced, and many of the songs written by Brian Burton, better known as Dangermouse.  Burton seems to have the Midas touch in the music industry throughout the past 10 years, working and redeveloping musicians such as Cee Lo Green, James Mercer, Jack White, and now Norah Jones.  And to be honest, the collaboration seems to be in Jones' favor.  While her first album was a huge success, the following three left much to be desired.  And although Norah, in a recent interview, claimed that the new album's indie sound was a natural musical progression, it strikes the casual listener as much more of a u-turn.
  Norah has stepped out of the comfort of her piano bench and major seven chords and jumped head first into a  world of minor synth riffs and reverb doused guitars.  Although the constant remains her trademark voice, this album will receive much more play in the bohemian coffee shops than the hotel lobby rooms in which Come Away With Me is still on loop.  This is not to say the album is better or worse than her debut, but rather stratifying, a shift in which Jones will lose fans, yet gain a crowd searching for something a bit more interesting.
   And though the album does contain many great tracks such as the hits Happy Pills, She's 21, and Say Goodbye... I found the most beauty hidden in her minimalist songs such as my favorite, Travelin' On.  This is one of the few tracks on the album when the blips and synth riffs dull out and all that is left is what any listener came for in the first place, her voice.  In this solemn track, the album shifts from the spunky opening tracks, to an optimistic ending, consistent with the overall breakup concept the album carries.
   There is not much more to say than, this album is good.  Not great, not terribly insightful, but a solid record.  And although many of the tracks will be forgotten, Little Broken Hearts seems a transition album in which we see a talented artist push her abilities into a relatively untouched genre.  So give it a listen, enjoy the standout tracks, and realize this is only the start.  Expect Norah to continue her way down this new path and be back soon with a much more developed sound.

Coachella Review

2 weeks ago, i made the 7 hour trek from SLO to Indio (through Long Beach).  There is only one reason us music fans (and ravers) would ever make such a trek to the desert, Coachella Music and Arts Festival.  This festival has exploded in popularity the past few years, and with a killer lineup, I couldn't resist going.

Luck was not on my side, however, as I started feeling sick the night before I left, and felt even worse after looking at the weather forecast which included highs of 107, making it the record hottest Coachella.  But despite adversity, I packed up and made the drive down with dreams of what the fest would be this year.  I was lucky enough to attend Coachella 2 years ago and it was as close to heaven as I could imagine; set free for 3 days to roam, dance, and listen with thousands of die-hard music fans.  I hoped for thousands of radiohead-heads camping out at the main stage and arguing over what the band's encore would consist of.  But as I arrived, I realized my expectations were far too high.  Maybe there simply does not exist a place like my dreams, but instead of finding a paradise for music fans, I was surprised with a massive party blasting music that, well was not what I expected to hear.  Due to the popularity spike, the festival has quickly become all about "the experience", with thousands of young L.A teens hoping to take molly with some celebrities. 

Although this was semi-dissapointing, the interesting crowd did not stop us from seeing some phenomenal performances.  And after all, the people watching is always a treat.  Heres some of the highlights of shows we liked (in chronological order).

1.  M. Ward 

                      Although I was not a huge fan prior to this show, it was a performance that has lead me to buy all his albums that I did not already have.  M. Ward had a down to earth demeanor which kept the show fun and entertaining.  His peculiar voice and extremely talented band made for great sound quality as they played his songs as well as a Chuck Berry cover which had the crowd dancing.  The highlight of the show was when he came back onstage for an unplanned encore and slapped and picked his guitar making a song that sounded like 10 musicians as opposed to 1.  

2.  Explosions in the Sky:

                         This was one show I was extremely excited for, and they exceeded all expectations i had.  My friends and I were lucky enough to have close spots for the show and watch the 3 guitarists create builds and textures that left much of the crowd in tears.  An hour and a half of music passed in what seemed like a few, emotional minutes.  When their last song, "The only moment we were alone", hit the final climax, the audience was left speechless for the rest of the night.  As I walked away from the show, i turned to a friend and said "It will be hard to beat that show".

3.  Andrew Bird:

                         This guy is sooo talented.  He looped his violin, guitar, whistling, singing, and every other instrument imaginable, while playing awesome songs he wrote.  Im jealous.  Because he has so much material to choose from, I did not recognize a lot of the songs he played, but this did not stop it from being a great show.  I am already looking into seeing him in LA over summer.

4.  Radiohead:

                         One of the most anticipated shows of the weekend, Radiohead took the stage and caused a deafening roar from the crowd.  The setlist included classics such as Karma Police, Paranoid Android, and 15 Step, while still playing some lesser known hits such as Kid A, You and Whose Army, and Feral.  With a ridiculous light and stage set, the impact the music already created was doubled resulting in an unforgettable experience.  Some of the highlights for me included when Johnny hit the wrong note on piano during the catchy chorus of Karma Police, and Thom laughed and filled it in with guitar.  The other highlight, and many would agree, was the inclusion of the 2000 hit, Exit Music.  This song, originally written for Romeo and Juliet, is an emotional and haunting ballad that made an even bigger impact live, leaving many of us, including myself, near tears.  Thank you Radiohead!

5.  Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg

                            This show was just madness. With a new stage setup and special guest for nearly every song, including eminem, warren G, Whiz Khalifa, 50 cent, and yes... Tupac, the show was an expensive yet unforgettable performance.  Although many of Dr. Dre's notable hits were left out, Snoop Dogg put on a great show twisting and "izzling" every other word leaving the crowd melting (or more appropriately, smoking).  With dancey sing a long songs that everyone recognizes as radio hits spanning over the last 20 years, it was a perfect note to end on.

<- Me getting ready for the amazing Saturday lineup

Other Notable Acts We Saw:

-Other Lives

-Gary Clark Jr.

-Tijuana Panthers

-Keep Shelly in Athens

-Tune-Yards

-The Shins

-Bon Iver

-First Aid Kit

-Beats Antique

-Fitz and the Tantrums

-Justice

Andrew Bird on Jimmy Kimmel

Check out Andrew Bird performing 2 tracks off his new album "Break it Yourself".

Jack White Webcast

Here was the live webcast from last night's performance in New York

Setlist:
(With female band)
Dead Leaves And The Dirty Ground
Missing Pieces
Freedom At 21
Love Interruption
Hotel Yorba
Two Against One
Top Yourself
I’m Slowly Turning Into You
Blue Blood Blues
Take Me With You When You Go
[intermission]
(with male band)
Sixteen Saltines
Cut Like a Buffalo
Weep Themselves To Sleep
Trash Tongue Talker
You Know That I Know
Were Going To Be Friends
Hypocritical Kiss
Hello Operator
Carolina Drama
Seven Nation Army
Goodnight, Irene

Norah Jones on Jools Holland

Check out the new Norah Jones tracks off her upcoming album, Little Broken Hearts.  She performed these last week on Jools Holland.  The tracks are Little Broken Hearts and Happy Pills.  Get ready for the album, should be an indie-poppin good time!

Jack White on Jools Holland

After a peculiar interview, Jack White performed the third track off his new album "Blunderbuss".  The track is called Freedom at 21 and you can see the performance here.... and if you haven't yet listened to the album, it is getting great reviews (though not yet from me since ive been quite busy hahah).  Enjoy!!!

Playlist of the Week #20

Here we go with a playlist for those that like post-rock.  If you don't know what that subgenre entails, it is a style made popular in the late 80s and 90s in which a band uses rock instruments to create textures or timbre (tone and color) in their music.  If you do not know much about it, this playlist will be a good place to start.  Please enjoy!
1.  They Move on the Tracks of Never Ending Light - This Will Destroy You
2.  The Light - The Album Leaf
3.  Afternoon Bed - The Six Parts Seven
4.  Untitled #4 - Sigur Ros
5.  White Light Of - Do Make Say Think
6.  Malabar Front - If These Trees Could Talk
7.  The Only Moment We Were Alone - Explosions in The Sky

The Axelrad Twins

Hello all,

I got home last night from the last 4 days of madness that was Coachella music and arts festival.  Stay tuned for an upcoming review of both the festival and the Radiohead Santa Barbara show I attended the week before.
But in the meantime, check out this debut, 3-track EP by Axelrad.  The EP features the two Santa Monica twins sampling tracks by Kimbra, First Aid Kit, and Sole, and is available for download (name your own price) on their site.  If you enjoy your downtempo remixes or are a fan at all of artists such as Bonobo and Prefuse 73, be sure to check out this EP.
You can download the EP here.

Outside Lands 5th Lineup

Wow!  A loaded lineup this year featuring notables such as Beck, Metallica, Foo Fighters, Neil Young, Jack White, Sigur Ros, Skrillex, and the list goes on.  Tickets go on sale this thursday at noon.  See the full lineup here http://lineup.sfoutsidelands.com/

15 Coachella Sets to Not Miss

15.  Beats Antique:  Expect a well crafted experience consisting of electro-acoustic instruments fused with world instruments, complimented by belly dancers.  This will be a fun show to dance and enjoy a talented group of musicians.

14.  M83:  Pop is an understatement.  Transporting us back to the 80's, this show should be a dancey good time with strobes, catchy drum beats, and synth riffs sure to be stuck in your head for the rest of the fest.
13. Flying Lotus:  Hip hop, jazz, techno, this talented Dj takes a bit from every genre.  This show will be intruiging, fun, and most of all, consistently interesting, something many indie pop and techno shows lack.  Dancing in the tent, you may have as much fun as he looks like he has up there, which is quite a feat.
12. Band of Skulls:  Just when we thought classic rock was dead.  This four piece rock band puts on an insane performance!  I saw them two years ago and was blown away at both their drive and clarity.  If you are a White Stripes, Jimi Hendrix, or Led Zeppelin fan, look them up and go see them!
11.  Other Lives:  This band, relatively unknown just a few months ago, has taken center stage by touring with Radiohead on their King of Limbs tour.  But their recent success is better explained by their phenomenal debut album, Tamer Animals.  As an earlier day show, this would be a great one to see.
10. Andrew Bird:  This man is unbelievably talented.  A world class violonist, songwriter, singer, guitarist, and whistler?.  Yes!  As he loops himself to create a beautiful ambiance, I do not doubt there will be tears shed at this show.  And with a new album, Bird will surely put on a great set.
9.  Dr. Dre & Snoop Dogg:  Who knows what to expect from this show.  Two rap legends, also joined by Eminem and Warren G... it's going to kick ass.  As the final headliner, with such classic acts, it would be a shame to miss this show.
8.   The Black Keys:  The band who has been dominating the music scene the past two years.  I was lucky enough to see them last year and the quality of the performance is undeniable.  With a whole stash of new material off of their latest album and a first ever headlining gig, I think we are all excited to see what they will whip up.
7.   Justice:  I'm sure you have all heard D.A.N.C.E, but those 3 minutes do nothing to capture the talent of these two dj's.  2 years ago Coachella offered Deadmau5, last year Boys Noize, this year, the house show of the weekend will be Justice.  Expect the festival to erupt with this show.
6.  Bon Iver: This band may seem like a simple singer songwriter performance, and not a show worth seeing, but this is a mistake.  I've read countless reviews that rave about this show, pegging it as one of the best touring performances out there.  The songs are good, the musicians better, and apparantly the show unforgettable.  Don't miss this!
5.  Amon Tobin:  One of the most mesmerizing visual performances of the weekend.  The dj rumored to have spent years and millions preparing the light shows for the stage.  The music is dancey yet complex, convoluted yet clear.  And from the videos and reviews I have seen, this show looks ridiculous.
4.  Godspeed You Black Emperor:  For the first time since 2003, the post-rock gods have gone on tour.  With every other show selling out in mere seconds, those with Coachella passes are in luck to get to see this band.  Using film projections to put their 15 minute epic songs into context, this will be a show that stays with you.
3.  Avicii - This will be a great show, hands down.  With incredible light shows and insanely fun dance music, this 22 year old Swedish DJ will close Coachella right with what is rumored to be on of the best techno performances around, rivaling the likes of Deadmau5 and Bennassi.  Sahara will be packed and Avicii will not dissapoint.
2.  Explosions In The Sky:  As popularity goes, this band will get outshadowed by many of the bigger names playing at competing set times.  But do not let that stop any of you from seeing one of the most talented post rock bands in the world.  Blending guitars and building drums will result in an emotional, awe-inspiring performance.  I have never seen this band and they are one of the main reasons I got a Coachella ticket.  This show will be amazing!
1.  Radiohead:  How could I not put them first?  With over 300 shows under their belt and no two setlists being the same, we really do not know what to expect.  But having over 200 songs to choose from, being one of the most acclaimed rock bands of all time, and being known for the live performances, I am sure the show will be nothing short of life changing.  This tour is already being called one of their best, and the band is known for throwing down at festivals.  Yes, they are my favorite band, but there is no bias when I say that it would be a mistake to miss this show.

Outside Lands

So much music fest excitement in the past few days.  Lollapalooza lineup announced, Coachella set times posted, and now the summer San Francisco music fest Outside Lands prepares fans for the big announcement.  The lineup will, according to their twitter, be announced Tuesday the 17th, along with instagram clues to who will perform on twitter.  Follow the site for the clues and be ready for a rumored to be amazing lineup that will drop Tuesday!

https://twitter.com/#!/sfoutsidelands

Lollapalooza!

The lineup just announced.  Black Sabbath will be headlining with Red Hot Chili Peppers, Black Keys, and Jack White.  Subheadliners ranging from The Shins and Sigur Ros, to Skrillex and Justice.  See the full lineup here.
http://lineup.lollapalooza.com/

Florence Unplugged

Florence and the Machine took the MTV stage last week, were stripped of electrics, and put on what a phenominal show.  If you are a fan at all, you should definitely check out the 12 performances that include two covers, one being a beutiful minimalistic cover of Otis Redding's "Try a Little Tenderness".  The CD and CD/DVD pack are all released today.  Check MTV.com for more details.
Watch this awesome video of the acoustic "Drumming Song"

Playlist of the Week #19

Hey there!  Hope you all are enjoying the weather, but when you are kicking back or having a nice dinner, check out this playlist of some of my favorite jazz.
Enjoy!
1.  Autumn Leaves - Barney Kessel
2.  A Hard Day's Night - Lenny Breau
3.  How Deep Is The Ocean - Bill Evans Trio
4.  So What - Miles Davis
5.  Them There Eyes - Ella Fitzgerald
6.  Love is a Tender Trap - Frank Sinatra
7.  Love is Here to Stay - Harry Connick Jr.
8.  Laird Baird - Charlie Parker
9.  Cry Me a River - Julie London
10.  Take Five - The Dave Brubeck Quartet
11.  Desafinado - Stan Getz & Charlie Byrd
11.  Old San Juan - Spyro Gyro
12.  Summertime - Ray Barretto
13.  Minor Swing - Django Reinhardt

Norah

New track from her upcoming album, Little Broken Hearts.  Preorder the album: iTunes: http://bit.ly/yMms62; Amazon:http://bit.ly/xBkztz  Little Broken Hearts in stores May1st!

"Ports of Morrow" Album Review

Five years since their last release, Wincing the Night Away, The Shins released their new album Ports of Morrow last week.  James Mercer is back with a whole new gang including Joe Plummer from Modest Mouse and Yuuki Matthews from Crystal Skulls, among others.  Mercer later was quoted as saying that the theme of the album is "the struggle between good and bad".  And struggle seems to be the best word to describe the album as a whole.  As if Mercer's mind is split down the middle, Ports of Morrow seems to be a struggle between the desire to adventure into a new sound, and the comfort of simply creating another good Shins album.
             The album opens with "The Rifle's Spiral", which, despite Mercer's unmistakable voice, sounds like a whole new band (not entirely surprising considering it is).  For one, the band seems to experiment more with electronic music, most likely influenced from James' recent project with Dangermouse, Broken Bells.  And although this seems to work for them in tracks such as "Simple Song", "Rifle's Spiral", and "Ports of Morrow", the new sound is almost too clean.  This may strike one as a good attribute, but these tracks seem almost fit for an arena, nothing like the untrimmed indie songs found on albums like Oh, Inverted World.  So this album could either be considered the best or the worst album for the band, depending on what it is you love about them.  For those who grew up with The Shins being a sort of underground anthem band, the idea that they would even strive for a perfect sound is somewhat insulting.
             But regardless, Mercer still manages to put out some phenomenal songs, just further establishing himself as a great songwriter.  "Simple Song", already a large success, seems to put itself in the category with other classics such as "Caring is Creepy" and "Saint Simon".  The song is a head bopping tune, that will drop your stomach at it's vocal-bruising chorus.  And to give credit to the new band members, the piano and precise bass by Matthews adds a whole new dimension to the song.
             Unfortunately, some of the new songs seem to be a bit of a bore.  "Its only life" is one of these songs; with a Bryan Adams chord progression and lyrics such as "I call you on the telephone, wont you pick up the receiver", and "I've been down the very road you're on, it doesn't have to be so dark and lonesome", the song sounds like it was written for an emotional 7th grader.  These trite lyrics and predictable verses leave one to wonder if their old stuff was profound or if I was just young.
            After a few listens, the album does grow on you.  There are definitely tracks that mantain the band's good name, and although I can criticize other songs, it doesn't stop me from blasting them in my car.

Playlist of the Week #18

Hola,
I am very excited about this playlist.  I know I may have used some of these songs in previous playlists, I felt this one put them together nicely.  There isn't much of a cohesive genre, but if you listen to it through, it does work haha.  If you would like me to send you the songs or burn a disc let me know!  Most of all, enjoy!
-Cody

1.  What Am I Living For - The Animals
2.  Spill The Wine - Eric Burdon & War
3.  Hey Pocky A-Way - The Meters
4.  Wolfman's Brother - Phish
5.  Do What We Do - Portugal. The Man
6.  Don't Let It Pass - Junip
7.  The Amazing Sounds of Orgy - Radiohead
8.  The Eraser - Thom Yorke
9.  Do the Astral Plane - Flying Lotus
10.  True Affection - The Blow
11.  Smile - Telepopmusik
12.  Sinking Friendships - Jonsi
13.  Au Revoir - Seven Saturdays
14.  Haiti - Arcade Fire
15.  For 12 - Other Lives
16.  Beggar In The Morning - The Barr Brothers
17.  Slip Slidin' Away - Paul Simon
18.  Wind - Cat Stevens

Norah Jones Summer Tour

To accompany her upcoming album, Little Broken Hearts, Norah Jones recently announced a slew of arena dates.  If money and time allow, I hope not to miss this surely amazing show.

05/25 – Paris, FR @ Olympia Theater
05/26 – Frankfurt, DE @ Alte Opera
06/01 – London, UK @ Royal Festival Hall
06/02 – London, UK @ Royal Festival Hall
06/20 – Indianapolis, IN @ Murat Theater
06/22 – Memphis, TN @ Mud Island Amphitheater
06/23 – Atlanta, GA @ Fox Theater
06/24 – Nashville, TN @ Ryman Auditorium
06/27 – Vienna, VA @ Wolf Trap
06/28 – Philadelphia, PA @ Man Center
06/29 – Rochester, NY @ Kodak Hall
07/01 – Boston, MA @ Bank of America Pavilion
07/02 – Wallingford, CT @ Oakdale Theatre
07/03 – New York, NY @ Central Park SummerStage
07/06 – Toronto, ON @ Massey Hall
07/07 – Montreal, QC @ Montreal Jazz Festival
07/14 – Lucca, IT @ Lucca Festival
07/16 – Luxembourg, LU @ Neumunster Abbey
07/17 – Hamburg, DE @ Stadtpark
07/19 – Rattvik, SE @ Dalhall
07/20 – Molde, NO @ Moldejazz Festival
07/22 – Pori, FL @ Pori Jazz Fest
08/07 – Santa Barbara, CA @ Santa Barbara Bowl
08/08 – San Diego, CA @ Copley Symphony Hall
08/10 – Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl
08/12 – Lake Tahoe, NV @ Harvey’s Outdoor Arena
08/15 – Bend, OR @ Les Schwab Amphitheater
08/17 – Portland, OR @ Edgefield Winery
08/18 – Seattle, WA @ Marymoor Amphitheater
08/21 – Salt Lake City, UT @ Red Butte Garden
08/23 – Denver, CO @ Red Rocks

The Shins on SNL

Check out this video of the Shins playing their new song, Simple Song, on SNL last night.  If you like what you hear (how can you not), pre-order their upcoming album Ports of Morrow, to be released March 20th.

Playlist of the Week #17

Heres another one for you guys to enjoy.  I've been listening to a lot from the 60s and 70s lately so sorry if the past few playlists reflect that.  Hope you enjoy!
-cody

1.  Magic Carpet Ride - Steppenwolf
2.  Hey Joe - Jimi Hendrix
3.  Miss You - The Rolling Stones
4.  For What It's Worth - Buffalo Springfield
5.  Suite Judy Blue Eyes - Crosby, Stills, and Nash
6.  Rhiannon - Fleetwood Mac
7.  White Room - Cream
8.  Teacher - Jethro Tull
9.  Wishing You Were Here - Chicago
10.  Kind Woman - Buffalo Springfield
11.  Touch Of Grey - The Grateful Dead

Playlist of the Week #16

Hello kind people,
Yeah I know that these "playlists of the week" haven't stuck to their once a week schedule, but I got one for you now so don't complain : ).
Enjoy your weeks and keep dancing!
-Cody
1. Mama Said - The Shirelles
2. There's a Kind of Hush - Herman's Hermits
3. Groovin' - The Rascals
4. Nowhere To Run - Martha & The Vandellas
5. For What It's Worth - Buffalo Springfield
6. Love The One Your With - Stephen Stills
7.  If You Want To Sing Out, Sing Out - Cat Stevens
8. In The Shape of A Heart - Jackson Browne
9. I Think We're Alone Now - Tommy James & The Shondells
10. You Can Call Me Al - Paul Simon

Jack White on SNL

Check out the video of Jack White playing his new track off the upcoming album Blunderbuss. (use link)




http://www.nbc.com/saturday-night-live/video/jack-white-love-interruption/1388795

Newport Folk Festival

Yes, the festival famous for Dylan's performances.  But this music festival has grown to be much more than just the stage on which Bob Dylan first went electric.  Every year they manage to create a lineup of new musicians, as well as some old folk classics still on tour.  Check out this year's lineup that was just released including My Morning Jacket (on tour for their newest album 'circuital'), Jackson Browne (i saw him last year in SB and it was phenominal), and a surprising Guthrie family reunion... as well as many other great folk artists.

Radiohead @ Miami

I know this blog often goes back to radiohead news, but as my favorite band i cant help but tell because I am so excited.  Last night, Radiohead kicked off their tour in Miami.  The set started off as expected, with a handful of songs off their latest album, King of Limbs.   But from there the show was in new territory.  Radiohead surprised fans with the live debut of Meeting in the aisle, a 15 year old b-side track.  They also treated fans with two brand new songs, Identikit and Cutting a Hole.  Sprinkled in with older tunes like Airbag and ending with Karma Police, the setlist was nothing short of amazing.  At the end of the night, Thom Yorke said that we can expect new setlists every night of the tour.  For those of you with Radiohead tickets in the future, get excited.  Here is the setlist and videos of Identikit and Weird Fishes last night...
setlist
01. Bloom
02. The Daily Mail
03. Morning Mr. Magpie
04. Staircase
05. The National Anthem
06. Meeting In The Aisle (live debut – seriously, this is a WTF inclusion)
07. Kid A
08. The Gloaming
09. Codex
10. You And Whose Army?
11. Nude
12. Identikit (new song debut)
13. Lotus Flower
14. There There
15. Feral
16. Idioteque
17. Separator
———
18. Airbag
19. Bodysnatchers
20. Cut A Hole (new song debut)
21. Weird Fishes/Arpeggi
———
22. Give Up The Ghost (with a false start)
23. Reckoner
24. Karma Police

New Jack White

He's back!  The lead singer of The White Stripes, The Racounters, and drummer of Dead Weather recently announced that he will, for the first time, be releasing a solo album.  The new album, Blunderbuss, is set to be released April 24th.  In an interview, White said that Blunderbuss is "an album I couldn't have released until now. I've put off making records under my own name for a long time but these songs feel like they could only be presented under my name. These songs were written from scratch, had nothing to do with anyone or anything else but my own expression, my own colors on my own canvas."  While waiting for that, check out the new solo, "Love Interruptions", and be sure to see his performance on SNL March 3rd.

Wilco Live In Santa Barbara

        After a listen to Wilco's new album The Whole Love, I knew that this would be a tour I did not want to miss.  So when I saw that they would be playing the Arlington theatre in Santa Barbara (one of my favorite venues), I immediately hopped on some tickets.  So a few weeks ago, my friend Wynne and I drove down to Santa Barbara, and after watching a sunset that made us extremely jealous of UCSB students, we went over to the venue.  Anticipation was high, and although the opener, White Denim, was impressive, we could not wait for Wilco.  And sure enough they fulfilled all expectations and more.
The band opened with "reservations", and older, folk tune that showed off Jeff Tweedy's amazing tone.  They soon broke into a few of the hits off Whole Love and with dramatic dynamics, the crowd was in their hands.  One song that stood out to me was "Impossible Germany", a hit off their 2007 album Sky Blue Sky.  While the band built a groovy foundation, lead guitarist Nels Cline explored the fret board aggressively with a solo that had us all on our feet.  And as they built up to a ground-shaking climax, they managed to maintain their clarity and control, demonstrating their experience as a band that has been touring for almost 20 years.  With Jeff Tweedy's amiable persona, the unpredictalbe setlist, and the perfectly constructed encore, Wilco made the night feel special (which is no easy task after being on tour for months).  On the drive back to school, I could not help but throw Wilco on my ipod, only to rant about how "it was sooo much better live".

Video of Wilco live on Letterman