Some Year End Lists For Y'All

Zack's Top 11 of 2010

Beach House - Teen Dream
-The secret dance party: you sway and float without even realizing.
Norway (YSI) (filesavr)
Kanye West - My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy
-The most engrossing hip hop album I have heard perhaps ever.
Sleigh Bells - Treats
-I actually paid for this album - its that addictive.
Rill Rill (YSI) (filesavr)
Arcade Fire - The Suburbs
-Like Philip Seymour Hoffman in Synecdoche New York.
Forest Swords - Dagger Paths
-Sleepwalking down a forgotten, mysterious, and curiously rhythmic corridor.
The Light (YSI) (filesavr)
Woods - At Echo Lake
-The sun breaking through the leaves.
Flying Lotus - Cosmogramma
-If the universe was based on electronic jazz, rather than math.
Do the Astral Plane (YSI) (filesavr)
LCD Soundsystem - This Is Happening
-James Murphy is hip as fuck.
Janelle Monae - The ArchAndroid
-People go back and forth, I say unbeatable sci-fi pop.
Mountain Man - Made the Harbor
-Bleak, frail, and stunningly beautiful.
Sewee Sewee (YSI) (filesavr)
Yeasayer - Odd Blood
-40 minutes of happy arms.

Just Missed/Hidden Gems:

Avi Buffalo - Avi Buffalo
Truth Sets In (YSI) (filesavr)
Glasser - Ring
Maximum Balloon - Maximum Balloon
Buke and Gass - Riposte
Anni Rossi - Heavy Meadow
Magic Man - Real Life Color
Monster (YSI) (filesavr)

Chris is M.I.A. right now, so not sure about his year end thoughts. Hopefully they will show up sooner or later, but for now you're stuck with mine. 2010 was an incredibly dense and diverse year for music with great releases coming from all corners of the musical universe. There are literally too many fantastic albums to listen to them all in a timely manner. I am for instance only getting to Grinderman 2 and the Fresh & Onlys, both of which are pretty awesome. While many albums come an go from 2010 year end lists there are a few, which cannot be denied, while a host of others deserve recognition in some form or another.

2011 you have a lot to live up to...

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFcc88NTbHGXqTBBZcuFJDDSfkN58Obk0J3JMYRfr5X00atlEdYCMfrHjFB5RxItVzwNZshKXqWhrY0h8ONwqjE2Krgv1Tmc1LusZ356D82Us-HzdquxaD976xsJDoeRxLNM5CVhIB-sVH/s1600/TSRE+2010.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5556313813620244162" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFcc88NTbHGXqTBBZcuFJDDSfkN58Obk0J3JMYRfr5X00atlEdYCMfrHjFB5RxItVzwNZshKXqWhrY0h8ONwqjE2Krgv1Tmc1LusZ356D82Us-HzdquxaD976xsJDoeRxLNM5CVhIB-sVH/s320/TSRE+2010.jpg" style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 319px;" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">Zack's Top 11 of 2010</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Beach House - Teen Dream</span><br />-The secret dance party: you sway and float without even realizing.<br />Norway (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/RlRwR0lUTSttUUZFQlE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/oK9EVQBv" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Kanye West - My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy</span><br />-The most engrossing hip hop album I have heard perhaps ever.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Sleigh Bells - Treats</span><br />-I actually paid for this album - its that addictive.<br />Rill Rill (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/RlRwR0lmcGtiV3hFQlE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/TrWyjnmF" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Arcade Fire - The Suburbs</span><br />-Like Philip Seymour Hoffman in <span style="font-style: italic;">Synecdoche New York</span>.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Forest Swords - Dagger Paths</span><br />-Sleepwalking down a forgotten, mysterious, and curiously rhythmic corridor.<br />The Light (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/RlRwR0lYTkFRR2Z2Wmc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/RpppkOJk" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Woods - At Echo Lake</span><br />-The sun breaking through the leaves.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Flying Lotus - Cosmogramma</span><br />-If the universe was based on electronic jazz, rather than math.<br />Do the Astral Plane (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/RlRwR0lYTkFveE94dnc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/VmZP0vei" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">LCD Soundsystem - This Is Happening</span><br />-James Murphy is hip as fuck.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Janelle Monae - The ArchAndroid</span><br />-People go back and forth, I say unbeatable sci-fi pop.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Mountain Man - Made the Harbor</span><br />-Bleak, frail, and stunningly beautiful.<br />Sewee Sewee (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/RlRwR0lUMGNCSWMwTVE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/vrszktYU" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Yeasayer - Odd Blood</span><br />-40 minutes of happy arms.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />Just Missed/Hidden Gems:</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Avi Buffalo - Avi Buffalo</span><br />Truth Sets In (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/RlRwR0lUMGN3NUkwTVE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/tZjZnLE4" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Glasser - Ring</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Maximum Balloon - Maximum Balloon</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Buke and Gass - Riposte</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Anni Rossi - Heavy Meadow</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Magic Man - Real Life Color</span><br />Monster (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/RlRwR0lSZ1A5NVd4dnc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/l6PMvZ4X" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /><br />Chris is M.I.A. right now, so not sure about his year end thoughts. Hopefully they will show up sooner or later, but for now you're stuck with mine. 2010 was an incredibly dense and diverse year for music with great releases coming from all corners of the musical universe. There are literally too many fantastic albums to listen to them all in a timely manner. I am for instance only getting to Grinderman 2 and the Fresh & Onlys, both of which are pretty awesome. While many albums come an go from 2010 year end lists there are a few, which cannot be denied, while a host of others deserve recognition in some form or another.<br /><br />2011 you have a lot to live up to...

Glasser and Buke and Gass Brought the House Down in 2010

While they unfortunately just missed out on my favorite albums of 2010 list (which is coming tomorrow btw), I cannot end the year without a quick nod to Glasser and Buke and Gass. Both of these bands are powerful, yet in distinctly there own ways. Buke and Gass border on out-of-control and jam out on instruments of their own creation, constructing walls of frenetic sound that pierce one's consciousness. While Buke and Gass is the ragged preacher gesticulating on the corner, Glasser is the immaculate and awe-inspiring statue inside the church. Glasser's songs are grand and majestic with just enough accessibilty to allow for emotional investment, while still remaining aloof and out of reach. At once primal and angelic, Apply by Glasser is a perfect example of their sound. I love both of these songs, and both of these bands - big things to come.

Buke and Gass - Revel in Contempt (YSI) (filesavr)

Glasser - Apply (YSI) (filesavr)

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtsa6aL7pzM58yBXS6CkOD4hMWRz08k7BwLDIMDwETqBQQFyedwHkVTuOf3_fJgvXnyQM8cR_EfJ0laz57ZhKsTvWgl_V77bxqzrzL5Ca5dMY7Qek2V53f23NG8i-c9JpV0urAfxJ6DlQk/s1600/TSRE+Octopus.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5556315182913540770" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtsa6aL7pzM58yBXS6CkOD4hMWRz08k7BwLDIMDwETqBQQFyedwHkVTuOf3_fJgvXnyQM8cR_EfJ0laz57ZhKsTvWgl_V77bxqzrzL5Ca5dMY7Qek2V53f23NG8i-c9JpV0urAfxJ6DlQk/s320/TSRE+Octopus.jpg" style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 186px;" /></a>While they unfortunately just missed out on my favorite albums of 2010 list (which is coming tomorrow btw), I cannot end the year without a quick nod to Glasser and Buke and Gass. Both of these bands are powerful, yet in distinctly there own ways. Buke and Gass border on out-of-control and jam out on instruments of their own creation, constructing walls of frenetic sound that pierce one's consciousness. While Buke and Gass is the ragged preacher gesticulating on the corner, Glasser is the immaculate and awe-inspiring statue inside the church. Glasser's songs are grand and majestic with just enough accessibilty to allow for emotional investment, while still remaining aloof and out of reach. At once primal and angelic, Apply by Glasser is a perfect example of their sound. I love both of these songs, and both of these bands - big things to come.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Buke and Gass - Revel in Contempt</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/RlRxTG04cklxRTJ4dnc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/UpzhDHa9" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Glasser - Apply</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/RlRxTG0zTkFHa05FQlE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/fWawuPkC" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)

The Sun Has Finally Come Out: Jonquil - One Hundred Suns EP

A while ago I received a copy of Jonquil's new EP One Hundred Suns in the mail and unfortunately it only recently found its way into my stereo (sorry). I was missing out. One Hundred Suns is a perfect succinct, sunny EP for a bright Fall day. It Never Rains is literally the perfect pop gem. It shimmers, never stands still, and is over before you want it to be. I cannot really describe it, but all the tracks are wide-eyed and hopeful - really good stuff. It is funny, the song Lions off Jonquil's previous album Lions is one of my favorite melancholic song, with its accordion, Lions is a song of ending or denouement. Here on One Hundred Suns, Jonquil have crafted an album hopeful for the future. Its important to be able to emotionally connect to an album, even better when it can be an unfettered joy - something we need more of these days.


Jonquil - In Never Rains (YSI) (filesavr)

Jonquil - Pillow Quest (YSI) (filesavr)

Jonquil - Lions (YSI) (filesavr)

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIbfO6nTdtUdAcX3xs-inMqAdgk1hyfUKVJbOcovo6Th5cqLlYkJy8fqjyEXUqUPwhmY5tIyW1urxhVFTioZYoBt7-D_k7lPqt87BhS4NWomBgeJVDaN9CZHRFBtO6q3OkHGcyugEaCcM6/s1600/TSRE+Jonquil.gif" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5551490105287706466" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIbfO6nTdtUdAcX3xs-inMqAdgk1hyfUKVJbOcovo6Th5cqLlYkJy8fqjyEXUqUPwhmY5tIyW1urxhVFTioZYoBt7-D_k7lPqt87BhS4NWomBgeJVDaN9CZHRFBtO6q3OkHGcyugEaCcM6/s320/TSRE+Jonquil.gif" style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 287px;" /></a>A while ago I received a copy of Jonquil's new EP <span style="font-style: italic;">One Hundred Suns</span> in the mail and unfortunately it only recently found its way into my stereo (sorry). I was missing out. One Hundred Suns is a perfect succinct, sunny EP for a bright Fall day. It Never Rains is literally the perfect pop gem. It shimmers, never stands still, and is over before you want it to be. I cannot really describe it, but all the tracks are wide-eyed and hopeful - really good stuff. It is funny, the song Lions off Jonquil's previous album <span style="font-style: italic;">Lions</span> is one of my favorite melancholic song, with its accordion, Lions is a song of ending or denouement. Here on <span style="font-style: italic;">One Hundred Suns</span>, Jonquil have crafted an album hopeful for the future. Its important to be able to emotionally connect to an album, even better when it can be an unfettered joy - something we need more of these days.<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Jonquil - In Never Rains</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/RlRyRFFRNDRRR2Z2Wmc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/fhrcqHme" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Jonquil - Pillow Quest </span>(<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/RlRyRFFRNDR6NE94dnc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/PzDy26RF" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Jonquil - Lions</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/RlRyRFFiTERCMTQwTVE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/zyS9kDaO" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)

Woods - At Echo Lake, A Criminal Oversight

2010 was a huge year for music, as all of the year end lists beginning to circulate are showing. From hip hop and R&B to indie and pop there were important and truly stunning albums released from all corners of the music landscape. One album that was criminally under-appreciated, at least on this end, was At Echo Lake by Woods. Their second album, At Echo Lake is a mature statement and a classic woods rock album. Homey, intimate, accessible, and bucolic, Woods craft hymns to nature that are at once communal, yet intensely personal; danceable, yet melancholy. And that use hand claps, what else do you need for a good ole' indie hoedown. Seriously though, At Echo Lake will be on my top albums of the year list and everyone should check it out. It will surprise you how much you will connect to this album.

Woods - Deep (YSI) (filesavr)

Woods - Death Rattles (YSI) (filesavr)

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1eLYvQ_oy_h5aDS8f2gr2SDlDVcgSBs91KVTGPuGxvKVQBF9LWQy-w5I4vv8cyQu8j5oD8QuGPAUmTGeySqfO7DS9_W55-asfTihqIfmjMGX9gYfafHrZVs8qlRyzIIbqhjJjcAImuWtG/s1600/TSRE+Kerry+Wood.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5551486682008364338" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1eLYvQ_oy_h5aDS8f2gr2SDlDVcgSBs91KVTGPuGxvKVQBF9LWQy-w5I4vv8cyQu8j5oD8QuGPAUmTGeySqfO7DS9_W55-asfTihqIfmjMGX9gYfafHrZVs8qlRyzIIbqhjJjcAImuWtG/s320/TSRE+Kerry+Wood.jpg" style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 221px;" /></a>2010 was a huge year for music, as all of the year end lists beginning to circulate are showing. From hip hop and R&B to indie and pop there were important and truly stunning albums released from all corners of the music landscape. One album that was criminally under-appreciated, at least on this end, was <span style="font-style: italic;">At Echo Lake</span> by Woods. Their second album, <span style="font-style: italic;">At Echo Lake</span> is a mature statement and a classic woods rock album. Homey, intimate, accessible, and bucolic, Woods craft hymns to nature that are at once communal, yet intensely personal; danceable, yet melancholy. And that use hand claps, what else do you need for a good ole' indie hoedown. Seriously though, <span style="font-style: italic;">At Echo Lake</span> will be on my top albums of the year list and everyone should check it out. It will surprise you how much you will connect to this album.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Woods - Deep</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/RlRyRFFkQ1J6NEt4dnc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/1ciBLmTe" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Woods - Death Rattles</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/RlRyRFFkQ1JubVd4dnc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/LZZvunbb" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)

Kanye Does Christmas

I'm headed down to New York this afternoon for a weekend filled with Christmas cheer, but before getting there I am going to put on my headphones and nap like a champ on the train. This December I have pretty much been listening to 5 things: Kanye, Christmas songs, Woods, and Forest Swords, and Glasser. Kanye is simply taking over the music world right now and his new Christmas track is just another step in towards his eventual world domination (especially with that piano!). Needless to say it does double duty in my rotation and continues his streak of money collaboration. Kanye makes Christmas in the city sound cooollll.

Kanye West - Christmas in Harlem (YSI) (filesavr)

Bodies of Water - O Come, O Come Emmanuel (YSI) (filesavr)

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0pC44jwOVTa5cZxvVki07oVYNZmSZxKZFjGLd5s2fO44BXKnpTMDgfumsdGHUat-xbKNw-cPbDkGcPfKmiXHr6UfIMA5yjP8FmNAcYWoscXpAA2o4LYG5ngXo5cXC6DQLkTCpuDwTLvKh/s1600/TSRE+Kanye.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5551483079861338050" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0pC44jwOVTa5cZxvVki07oVYNZmSZxKZFjGLd5s2fO44BXKnpTMDgfumsdGHUat-xbKNw-cPbDkGcPfKmiXHr6UfIMA5yjP8FmNAcYWoscXpAA2o4LYG5ngXo5cXC6DQLkTCpuDwTLvKh/s320/TSRE+Kanye.jpg" style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 320px;" /></a>I'm headed down to New York this afternoon for a weekend filled with Christmas cheer, but before getting there I am going to put on my headphones and nap like a champ on the train. This December I have pretty much been listening to 5 things: Kanye, Christmas songs, Woods, and Forest Swords, and Glasser. Kanye is simply taking over the music world right now and his new Christmas track is just another step in towards his eventual world domination (especially with that piano!). Needless to say it does double duty in my rotation and continues his streak of money collaboration. Kanye makes Christmas in the city sound cooollll.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Kanye West - Christmas in Harlem</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/RlRyRFFVQXB6RTlFQlE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/4mAKF426" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Bodies of Water - O Come, O Come Emmanuel </span>(<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/RlRyRFFkbThubHcwTVE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/22ocomeocomeemmanuel" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)

A Very Dent May Holiday

Its that season of holiday parties. Time to whip out the Christmas sweater and mingle with some people that I'm only marginally associated with-fun! But seriously though, holiday parties are great, especially for reconnecting with people after being sequestered in the monastery of academia. Whatever your plans/preferences may be, this new Dent May holiday track is will inject a little laid back holiday swagger into any party this December. With all his party themed tracks, Dent May must surely throw a great party.

PS. A veggie nativity as a follow up to last week's meat nativity.

Dent May - Holiday Face (YSI) (filesavr)

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtnzlgGyodsy6xzs5Ol1K0zycSm5LQ6VphKg3WlWzL4GbxFKdeswuKjt17wmC3vbP3_7Prt3G3vLy8X6UZJPtIAIvax-zlmhc_csAhPiELJjaxsM6e5EP5qZcvoY-yDdgdiNJq4cVj_Esf/s1600/TSRE+Veggie+Nativity.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5550256404570844354" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtnzlgGyodsy6xzs5Ol1K0zycSm5LQ6VphKg3WlWzL4GbxFKdeswuKjt17wmC3vbP3_7Prt3G3vLy8X6UZJPtIAIvax-zlmhc_csAhPiELJjaxsM6e5EP5qZcvoY-yDdgdiNJq4cVj_Esf/s320/TSRE+Veggie+Nativity.jpg" style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 180px;" /></a>Its that season of holiday parties. Time to whip out the Christmas sweater and mingle with some people that I'm only marginally associated with-fun! But seriously though, holiday parties are great, especially for reconnecting with people after being sequestered in the monastery of academia. Whatever your plans/preferences may be, this new Dent May holiday track is will inject a little laid back holiday swagger into any party this December. With all his party themed tracks, Dent May must surely throw a great party.<br /><br />PS. A veggie nativity as a follow up to last week's meat nativity.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Dent May - Holiday Face</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/cEdzeUNKYUlCTW52Wmc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/srKahHfg" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)

A-Trak and Diplo Spin Robyn

DJ extraordinaire A-Trak and uber-producer Diplo have recently spiced up offerings from dancepop queen Robyn, giving us reworkings of two of her 2010 tracks.

First, A-Trak spins it up with an edit of "Indestructible." It doesn't have the acidic blips of a lot of A-Trak's stuff, but he throws in some great strings toward the end and starts to edge that way eventually. It's a high energy take on a song that can sometimes drag.

Diplo takes a shot at "Dancehall Queen," a song that he himself originally produced. This time, he recruits Spoek Mathambo and Stenchman to help out, dropping the song into a dubstep wobble. I'm not a huge fan of the re-work, but I'm not a huge fan of dubstep, so I wanted to pass it along for the dubbers amongst us. I do find Diplo's brand of dubstep among the least offensive, and can get into this track if I'm in the right mood.

For me, though, Robyn's "Cry When You Get Older" is about as good as it gets.

Robyn - Indestructible (A-Trak Edit) (YSI) (filesavr)

Robyn - Dancehall Queen (Diplo & Stenchman Remix f. Spoek Mathambo) (YSI) (filesavr)

Robyn - Cry When You Get Older (YSI) (filesavr)

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqOgIPuK8cNAksDMPYef30KUpPV6z7ZZrHA7AzeOemMbeC2pIWnRV9NfbFwVe217V5cQbXMupNUnm_Jx9ALDZWLG-DYDpZ2QukT1hGQTfLTm3udfEeRTBKi5iKnIH6Er6dNVMNYTP4xso/s1600/robynTSRE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqOgIPuK8cNAksDMPYef30KUpPV6z7ZZrHA7AzeOemMbeC2pIWnRV9NfbFwVe217V5cQbXMupNUnm_Jx9ALDZWLG-DYDpZ2QukT1hGQTfLTm3udfEeRTBKi5iKnIH6Er6dNVMNYTP4xso/s320/robynTSRE.jpg" width="320" /></a>DJ extraordinaire A-Trak and uber-producer Diplo have recently spiced up offerings from dancepop queen Robyn, giving us reworkings of two of her 2010 tracks.<br /> <br /> First, A-Trak spins it up with an edit of "Indestructible." It doesn't have the acidic blips of a lot of A-Trak's stuff, but he throws in some great strings toward the end and starts to edge that way eventually. It's a high energy take on a song that can sometimes drag.<br /> <br /> Diplo takes a shot at "Dancehall Queen," a song that he himself originally produced. This time, he recruits Spoek Mathambo and Stenchman to help out, dropping the song into a dubstep wobble. I'm not a huge fan of the re-work, but I'm not a huge fan of dubstep, so I wanted to pass it along for the dubbers amongst us. I do find Diplo's brand of dubstep among the least offensive, and can get into this track if I'm in the right mood.<br /> <br /> For me, though, Robyn's "Cry When You Get Older" is about as good as it gets.<br /> <br /> <b>Robyn - Indestructible</b> (A-Trak Edit) (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/cEdzT0NURndnYU5jR0E9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/6sSWBkad" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /> <br /> <b>Robyn - Dancehall Queen (Diplo & Stenchman Remix f. Spoek Mathambo)</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/cEdzT0NlYStlcEpjR0E9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/B2kHa8h9" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /> <br /> <b>Robyn - Cry When You Get Older </b>(<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/cEdzT0NSbEFtUUd4dnc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/CdoQ5A30" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)

I Saw Three Ships - What A Classic

I Saw Three Ships is a Christmas classic and Sufjan's take on it is one of my favorite of his many great Christmas songs. Then there's Sting's version just for kicks.

Sting - I Saw Three Ships (YSI) (filesavr)

Sufjan Stevens - I Saw Three Ships (YSI) (filesavr)

And not to stray too far from normal hipster programming - its the new Hercules and Love Affair track:

Hercules and Love Affair - My House (YSI) (filesavr)

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu0oXtOJCeEH6IO5Jh5tTSvOtQIWtfsQ4GH-0LtXZ3h8yZ_anlhu1tMSYtzLuyahXkW4wb_XaOYIDBjG6Kgo1GdfK942wZSJI3FM8m3F2rsJbKGsCNiIncUJPvdqEtwunbQzXdPS5eLIK6/s1600/TSRE+Look+Out.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5548514940829090690" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu0oXtOJCeEH6IO5Jh5tTSvOtQIWtfsQ4GH-0LtXZ3h8yZ_anlhu1tMSYtzLuyahXkW4wb_XaOYIDBjG6Kgo1GdfK942wZSJI3FM8m3F2rsJbKGsCNiIncUJPvdqEtwunbQzXdPS5eLIK6/s320/TSRE+Look+Out.jpg" style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 203px;" /></a>I Saw Three Ships is a Christmas classic and Sufjan's take on it is one of my favorite of his many great Christmas songs. Then there's Sting's version just for kicks.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Sting - I Saw Three Ships</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/cEd1cXluQzNqV0R2Wmc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/WJhvWJ4d" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Sufjan Stevens - I Saw Three Ships</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/cEd1cXlpOC9oMlZjR0E9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/RS1duU7P" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /><br />And not to stray too far from normal hipster programming - its the new Hercules and Love Affair track:<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Hercules and Love Affair - My House</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/cEd1cXlqQzdsMHl4dnc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/Q9OmQuZw" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)

Early Christmas Presents

This weekend was full of early Christmas presents: the Red Sox trade for Adrian Gonzalez, the Pats crush the Jets, and we won a fun ultimate tournament. The only thing really missing was some solid holiday cheer, which unfortunately I haven't really been feeling yet this December. I have been trying to rectify that by listening to a lot of Christmas music, especially those that have some soul and funk. I guess it will probably sink in once we get our first snow and I finish all these papers. But this sweet MEAT NATIVITY sure is helping too! Enjoy the classic tunes and keep an eye out for our end of 2010 lists that should be coming out soon and our obligatory Sufjan Christmas post coming up soon.

Mabel Scott - Boogie Woogie Santa Claus (YSI)

Harlem Children's Chorus - Black Christmas (YSI)

BONUS: a pretty straightforward, yet charming track from Air Waves

Air Waves - Radio (YSI)

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjircyb-FcisvPnIArwbL5mqKsV6eN0M5ajHlP7i-BLz0uYQloBkzQqvYSg7aLSpZ0wKVFVldSTy1uD1383s29lawK7IFb2MWae1o1-kQu1qOkuYirie_JxVWGzdcxhN5RTYJxBl-DW6ioN/s1600/TSRE+Meat+Nativity.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5547791396784350546" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjircyb-FcisvPnIArwbL5mqKsV6eN0M5ajHlP7i-BLz0uYQloBkzQqvYSg7aLSpZ0wKVFVldSTy1uD1383s29lawK7IFb2MWae1o1-kQu1qOkuYirie_JxVWGzdcxhN5RTYJxBl-DW6ioN/s320/TSRE+Meat+Nativity.jpg" style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" /></a>This weekend was full of early Christmas presents: the Red Sox trade for Adrian Gonzalez, the Pats crush the Jets, and we won a fun ultimate tournament. The only thing really missing was some solid holiday cheer, which unfortunately I haven't really been feeling yet this December. I have been trying to rectify that by listening to a lot of Christmas music, especially those that have some soul and funk. I guess it will probably sink in once we get our first snow and I finish all these papers. But this sweet MEAT NATIVITY sure is helping too! Enjoy the classic tunes and keep an eye out for our end of 2010 lists that should be coming out soon and our obligatory Sufjan Christmas post coming up soon.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Mabel Scott - Boogie Woogie Santa Claus</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/cEd1Qk13T004aVB2Wmc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Harlem Children's Chorus - Black Christmas </span>(<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/cEd1Qk02bEo1aWF4dnc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>)<br /><br />BONUS: a pretty straightforward, yet charming track from Air Waves<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Air Waves - Radio</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/cEd1Qk02bEo5bEN4dnc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>)

Showing My Tanlines

One band that has progressively grown on me over the past year is Brooklyn natives Tanlines. The duo first showed up on my radar when they opened for Micachu and the Shapes at a show early this year. One of their synthesizers was broken, but they put on a fantastic show anyway. Since then, I've had the chance to see them twice, and both times they really wowed me. They opened for DJ/Rupture at a free show and were a dance party and a half. Then, at Pitchfork's #Offline fest, they overshadowed (in my mind) a number of really great acts. The pair just puts on a set that is consistently bubbly and happy.

I recently found out that Jesse Cohen, one of the two Tanlines, was also in Professor Murder, a similarly designed group that I very much enjoy. Check out "Real Life," my favorite Tanlines track, and then listen to Professor Murder's "The Mountain" - I think you'll see some bouncing similarities. Tanlines takes the ideas that make Professor Murder enjoyable and boils them down to make them great. If you can listen to "Real Life" without bopping even a little bit, you should stop staring at your computer quite so much.

Tanlines - Real Life (YSI) (filesavr)

Professor Murder - The Mountain (YSI) (filesavr)

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtCMzsr-SjiCSNrJZC7h0kv_UkUU-fSFrSlOslWKHf2KHBhYAtOGRUm9qVWv7JrOLTGOw5bcmok2y6P4sYD9ATnqp-2E-9HKBLaFwKDwa_9ZSoVOAgCs4WpMHwBrOfMQ95rQTu19a0Fx4/s1600/tanlinesTSRE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtCMzsr-SjiCSNrJZC7h0kv_UkUU-fSFrSlOslWKHf2KHBhYAtOGRUm9qVWv7JrOLTGOw5bcmok2y6P4sYD9ATnqp-2E-9HKBLaFwKDwa_9ZSoVOAgCs4WpMHwBrOfMQ95rQTu19a0Fx4/s320/tanlinesTSRE.jpg" width="320" /></a>One band that has progressively grown on me over the past year is Brooklyn natives Tanlines. The duo first showed up on my radar when they opened for Micachu and the Shapes at a show early this year. One of their synthesizers was broken, but they put on a fantastic show anyway. Since then, I've had the chance to see them twice, and both times they really wowed me. They opened for DJ/Rupture at a free show and were a dance party and a half. Then, at Pitchfork's #Offline fest, they overshadowed (in my mind) a number of really great acts. The pair just puts on a set that is consistently bubbly and happy.<br /> <br /> I recently found out that Jesse Cohen, one of the two Tanlines, was also in Professor Murder, a similarly designed group that I very much enjoy. Check out "Real Life," my favorite Tanlines track, and then listen to Professor Murder's "The Mountain" - I think you'll see some bouncing similarities. Tanlines takes the ideas that make Professor Murder enjoyable and boils them down to make them great. If you can listen to "Real Life" without bopping even a little bit, you should stop staring at your computer quite so much.<br /> <br /> <b>Tanlines - Real Life</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/cEdzTkZpSWVRR2Z2Wmc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/oBPCvgwS" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /> <br /> <b>Professor Murder - The Mountain</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/cEdzTkZ2YWJCTWswTVE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/EDzaJIfn" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)

The Hip-Hop Avant Garde

Hello, it's been awhile. Having moved to NYC three months ago, life has been busy, exhilarating, and busy—so busy that I left barely any time to listen to any music.

Fortunately, that's changed, and I’m feeling inspired again. What’s been inspiring me lately? Well, hip-hop. Of course, there’s the new Kanye album, which everyone is buzzing about. There’s plenty of writing on this album already, so I’m not going to go there, but know that I love it. Love it.

But beyond Kanye, I’ve been discovering some other jams (most of which I’m way behind the ball on). There’s Jay Electronica, for one, whose “Eternal Sunshine (Part 1): The Pledge” has been blowing my mind of late. I’ve always thought that classical music might provide a suitably epic backdrop for some epic rhymes (see one of my favorite Luda tracks). While it's not Mozart of Dvorak, the soundtrack from the film “Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind,” which serves as the backdrop for this track, prominently features strings, winds, and piano in a way that is, if not classical, certainly not your typical hip-hop either. Case in point: there's no beat. Jay's rhymes provide the rhythmic drive. The result is 15-minute long journey, beginning with spoken introductions by Just Blaze and Erykah Badu, and then moving to rhymes, Willy Wonka dialogue, and more rhymes. Equal parts melancholy and mystical, the mood that Jay Electronica creates is unlike that of any other hip-hop track I’ve heard. And his rhymes are unreal--captivating flow, lyrics that are crazy cool and weird and mystical, awesomely defiant of the rap mainstream:

I could care less about a plaque and Bidd-enz or get Punk'd on TV by my frid-ends
Don't get a nigga wrong,
I get tempted by the rewards that all come along with making nigga songs
But what does it mean if I'm a Muslim and you a Jew and because of that alone we don't get along
And when you talk like this, and try to walk like this the radio stations'll never put a nigga on
Just Mims, just Fifty, just Wayne, just Jeezy, Dem Franchize Boyz, and Jimmy Jones
Fuck that, fuck rap this God-Hop,
King-dom mu-sic for the hard rocks
I'ma spit it till T-R-L get it and Hot ninety-seven hit the nigga with a bomb drop
Ask Flex, ask Slay, ask Who Kidd
Just Blaze said Jay is the new kid
I took Eternal Sunshine and I looped it
No drums no hook just new shit

Jay’s been in the news recently, having signed to Jay-Z’s label. I only hope that he keeps pushing the boundaries of hip-hop, remaining independent and critical of the mainstream. He ends "Eternal Sunshine" with the following lines:

But y'all would much rather hear me rappin' bout trash
The size of Erykah's ass, blunts and cash
We need savin'
Minds are consumed with swine we need bathin'

Jay, I must respectfully disagree--we'd rather you just keep doin' what you're doin'.

Jay Electronica - Eternal Sunshine (Part 1): The Pledge (YSI) (filesavr)
Jay Electronica - Shiny Suit Theory (feat. Jay-Z and The Dream) (YSI) (filesavr)

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJMTYX7HhHELKGTNotnbgIM8hO8qetO8K_LUOw_9U_mNUX4K75F47-t_hyphenhyphens1qXvCNpuCDB6xHosRa84dGoOBWilCTatx1niN0yYwzemtpBeKKMv6EOyx4pqjYIoeZOpONBzMESq5rCLfA/s1600/Jay%252BElectronica%252B279986321_l.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><blockquote></blockquote><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5546316760035817042" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJMTYX7HhHELKGTNotnbgIM8hO8qetO8K_LUOw_9U_mNUX4K75F47-t_hyphenhyphens1qXvCNpuCDB6xHosRa84dGoOBWilCTatx1niN0yYwzemtpBeKKMv6EOyx4pqjYIoeZOpONBzMESq5rCLfA/s320/Jay%252BElectronica%252B279986321_l.jpg" style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 232px; height: 320px;" /></a><p class="MsoNormal">Hello, it's been awhile. Having moved to NYC three months ago, life has been busy, exhilarating, and busy—so busy that I left barely any time to listen to any music. </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Fortunately, that's changed, and I’m feeling inspired again. What’s been inspiring me lately? Well, hip-hop. Of course, there’s the new Kanye album, which everyone is buzzing about. There’s plenty of writing on this album already, so I’m not going to go there, but know that I love it. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal">Love </i>it. </p> <p class="MsoNormal">But beyond Kanye, I’ve been discovering some other jams (most of which I’m way behind the ball on). There’s Jay Electronica, for one, whose “Eternal Sunshine (Part 1): The Pledge” has<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>been blowing my mind of late. I’ve always thought that classical music might provide a suitably epic backdrop for some epic rhymes (see <a href="http://www.thestureidexperiment.com/2009/04/stu-reid-sampler-luda-meets-classical.html" target="_blank">one of my favorite Luda tracks</a>). While it's not Mozart of Dvorak, the soundtrack from the film “Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind,” which serves as the backdrop for this track, prominently features strings, winds, and piano in a way that is, if not classical, certainly not your typical hip-hop either. Case in point: there's no beat. Jay's rhymes provide the rhythmic drive. The result is 15-minute long journey, beginning with spoken introductions by Just Blaze and Erykah Badu, and then moving to rhymes, Willy Wonka dialogue, and more rhymes. Equal parts melancholy and mystical, the mood that Jay Electronica creates is unlike that of any other hip-hop track I’ve heard. And his rhymes are unreal--captivating flow, lyrics that are crazy cool and weird and mystical, awesomely defiant of the rap mainstream:</p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><blockquote><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">I could care less about a plaque and Bidd-enz or get Punk'd on TV by my frid-ends<br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; ">Don't get a nigga wrong,<br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; ">I get tempted by the rewards that all come along with making nigga songs<br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; ">But what does it mean if I'm a Muslim and you a Jew and because of that alone we don't get along<br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; ">And when you talk like this, and try to walk like this the radio stations'll never put a nigga on<br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; ">Just Mims, just Fifty, just Wayne, just Jeezy, Dem Franchize Boyz, and Jimmy Jones<br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; ">Fuck that, fuck rap this God-Hop,<br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; ">King-dom mu-sic for the hard rocks<br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; ">I'ma spit it till T-R-L get it and Hot ninety-seven hit the nigga with a bomb drop<br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; ">Ask Flex, ask Slay, ask Who Kidd<br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; ">Just Blaze said Jay is the new kid<br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; ">I took Eternal Sunshine and I looped it<br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; ">No drums no hook just new shit</span></p></blockquote><p class="MsoNormal"></p><p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Jay’s been in the news recently, having signed to Jay-Z’s label. I only hope that he keeps pushing the boundaries of hip-hop, remaining independent and critical of the mainstream. He ends "Eternal Sunshine" with the following lines:</p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"></span></p><blockquote><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">But y'all would much rather hear me rappin' bout trash<br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; ">The size of Erykah's ass, blunts and cash<br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; ">We need savin'<br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; ">Minds are consumed with swine we need bathin'</span></blockquote><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; "></span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Jay, I must respectfully disagree--we'd rather you just keep doin' what you're doin'. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><b>Jay Electronica - Eternal Sunshine (Part 1): The Pledge</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/cEd0OU1aTlFuSlR2Wmc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/af6GDJGG" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /><b>Jay Electronica - Shiny Suit Theory (feat. Jay-Z and The Dream)</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/cEd0OU1kdENwTVUwTVE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/I7GUyj4X" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)</p> <!--EndFragment-->

Its December - Break Out the Pomplamoose

Its December, which means it is officially time for Christmas music! Many of you may have seen the new Hyundai commercial featuring indie youtube sensations Pomplamoose. The whole commercial is cute: Nataly Dawn, the sweaters, stop-motion filming, and the tunes. Pomplamoose's EP of Christmas music is jaunty and bouncy with whistling and just enough hipster veneer. But seriously though, these are fun and remind me of a delightful winter day.

Pomplamoose - Up on the Housetop (YSI) (filesavr)

Pomplamoose - Deck the Halls (YSI) (filesavr)

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSIqmFSvwmsJTP8LFo7sqMMUuAlo7-0HuWcO6s2oVFD5OgeY8xYkt5I3N_R-1hysD7Zdt6NFJVLEV1qqIhfDJcRuGVagAzp6DD9LHPjltEtJcgaJtQy31GRjM3D1OaxvsPcZUgvu4ZRcN5/s1600/TSRE+Grapefruit.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5545922498741961538" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSIqmFSvwmsJTP8LFo7sqMMUuAlo7-0HuWcO6s2oVFD5OgeY8xYkt5I3N_R-1hysD7Zdt6NFJVLEV1qqIhfDJcRuGVagAzp6DD9LHPjltEtJcgaJtQy31GRjM3D1OaxvsPcZUgvu4ZRcN5/s320/TSRE+Grapefruit.jpg" style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 301px; height: 300px;" /></a>Its December, which means it is officially time for Christmas music! Many of you may have seen the new Hyundai commercial featuring indie youtube sensations Pomplamoose. The whole commercial is cute: Nataly Dawn, the sweaters, stop-motion filming, and the tunes. Pomplamoose's EP of Christmas music is jaunty and bouncy with whistling and just enough hipster veneer. But seriously though, these are fun and remind me of a delightful winter day.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Pomplamoose - Up on the Housetop</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/cEd2YURDTk1CMTVFQlE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/3iijOzmu" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Pomplamoose - Deck the Halls</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/cEd2YURFNXY5NVd4dnc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/9C7X0WjT" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)

Yelawolf's Roots

One of the least hyped stellar albums of 2010 is, no question, Yelawolf's Trunk Muzik 0-60. The album - which collects a bunch of the tracks from Yelawolf's stellar Trunk Muzik mixtape, ups the production value, and adds new tracks - is full of fantastic flows and nasty beats, with a Southern rap vibe that you won't hear quite so honestly without searching down some great names.

Recently, the always incredible YoursTru.ly filmed Yeller doing a stripped down take of one of Trunk Muzik/Trunk Muzik 0-60's best tracks, "Pop The Trunk." Before they even get to the song, though, Yelawolf revisits an old skatepark and talks about the desperation of the quasi-homeless skate life he lived. The intro is real and fascinating, and is worth the (free) price of admission alone.




Don't skip the video, and don't miss the trax. I've included the rare track "Deer Mama" from SMKA's The 808 Experiment Volume II just for you.

Yelawolf - Pop The Trunk (YSI) (filesavr)

Yelawolf - Pop The Trunk (Bones and Vocals Version) (YSI) (filesavr)

Yelawolf - Deer Mama (YSI) (filesavr)

One of the least hyped stellar albums of 2010 is, no question, Yelawolf's <i>Trunk Muzik 0-60</i>. The album - which collects a bunch of the tracks from Yelawolf's stellar <i>Trunk Muzik</i> mixtape, ups the production value, and adds new tracks - is full of fantastic flows and nasty beats, with a Southern rap vibe that you won't hear quite so honestly without searching down some great names.<br /> <br /> Recently, the always incredible YoursTru.ly filmed Yeller doing a stripped down take of one of <i>Trunk Muzik/Trunk Muzik 0-60</i>'s best tracks, "Pop The Trunk." Before they even get to the song, though, Yelawolf revisits an old skatepark and talks about the desperation of the quasi-homeless skate life he lived. The intro is real and fascinating, and is worth the (free) price of admission alone.<br /> <br /> <iframe frameborder="0" height="225" src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/17124712?portrait=0&color=880bd6" width="400"></iframe><br /> <br /> <br /> Don't skip the video, and don't miss the trax. I've included the rare track "Deer Mama" from SMKA's <i>The 808 Experiment Volume II </i>just for you.<br /> <br /> <b>Yelawolf - Pop The Trunk</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/cEd0M25BTXZEa1d4dnc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/6HgawONN" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /> <br /> <b>Yelawolf - Pop The Trunk (Bones and Vocals Version)</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/cEd0M25Pd0F3TGhFQlE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/VgHUUWql" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /> <br /> <b>Yelawolf - Deer Mama</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/cEd0M25NNnl0QTN2Wmc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/abVpHgSa" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)

Phenomenal Hand Claps and Remixes

This post is not about Mick Jagger, but about something equally monumental in the world of music: hand claps. Plain and simple hand claps are pure magic as a rhythmic device and adding them in a remix - gold. A band has taken hand claps one step further and named itself after them. The Phenomenal Handclap Band is surprisingly eclectic with an abundance of great rhythms and dare I say it (sorry Edward Said) Asian flavor. Check out their track Tears and the stellar remix by Stallions that takes full advantage of the hand clap for a dramatic rhythmic overhaul. Good stuff and a whole album of remixes of and by the Phenomenal Handclap Band is out soon - check it out.

The Phenomenal Handclap Band - Tears (YSI) (filesavr)

The Phenomenal Handclap Band - Tears (Stallions Remix) (YSI) (filesavr)

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNGQCfd30099Fn3XIXPNtTOY0ItBG-stV___foTmhlDMPSWSSabLF0Fu-QUEsFYuS-9jALkpPkQQL7LixM4Pj9YAsT2FX2igEz32fGLnAra84EXd0vJx1Rd74TztUSxe86uySfLZT2r5Ts/s1600/TSRE+Mick.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5545200242080305410" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNGQCfd30099Fn3XIXPNtTOY0ItBG-stV___foTmhlDMPSWSSabLF0Fu-QUEsFYuS-9jALkpPkQQL7LixM4Pj9YAsT2FX2igEz32fGLnAra84EXd0vJx1Rd74TztUSxe86uySfLZT2r5Ts/s320/TSRE+Mick.jpg" style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 192px;" /></a>This post is not about Mick Jagger, but about something equally monumental in the world of music: hand claps. Plain and simple hand claps are pure magic as a rhythmic device and adding them in a remix - gold. A band has taken hand claps one step further and named itself after them. The Phenomenal Handclap Band is surprisingly eclectic with an abundance of great rhythms and dare I say it (sorry Edward Said) Asian flavor. Check out their track Tears and the stellar remix by Stallions that takes full advantage of the hand clap for a dramatic rhythmic overhaul. Good stuff and a whole album of remixes of and by the Phenomenal Handclap Band is out soon - check it out.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Phenomenal Handclap Band - Tears</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/cEd0cHBPcTJVbTgwTVE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/vL03BEdy" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Phenomenal Handclap Band - Tears (Stallions Remix)</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/cEd0cHBCSU9tNEkwTVE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/vDd6So1K" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)

All Things Dougie Related

Alright, sorry for the delay folks. Things are crazy in our lives and we momentarily forgot how incredible making Paint Pictures and spewing our thoughts about music is. But we spent a week eating Thanksgiving food, bumping new tunes, and learning how to dougie. Well maybe that last one is just me. And maybe it's less "learning how to dougie" and more "watching the Teach Me How To Dougie video and trying to figure out what the actual dance move even is." Regardless, that song is awesome, and has spawned a few fantastic things that I want to share.

The first is this  picture, which I spent about 45 minutes making instead of doing work when I was super busy:

The second is this video, which is one of my favorite things on the internet:

The third is the original song, which you should probably listen to, if you've been living under a rock for a while and haven't yet heard it.

Cali Swag District - Teach Me How To Dougie (YSI) (filesavr)

The fourth is this mash-up by the hood internet, which is just fantastic. It's The Hood Internet, who always produce quality work, throwing together Cali Swag District's original with Toro Y Moi, that bespectacled chillwaver.

The Hood Internet - Dougie Vision (Cali Swag District vs. Toro Y Moi) (YSI) (filesavr)

The fifth is the lead track of Girl Talk's new album, which throws in a little Dougie sample about two minutes in.

Girl Talk - Oh No (YSI) (filesavr)

The latter two tracks are pretty dope, and they allow you to put "Teach Me How To Dougie" on at your next party without feeling like you're betraying your indie sensibilities. Although, really, you should just rock the original with pride. Do it.

Alright, sorry for the delay folks. Things are crazy in our lives and we momentarily forgot how incredible making Paint Pictures and spewing our thoughts about music is. But we spent a week eating Thanksgiving food, bumping new tunes, and learning how to dougie. Well maybe that last one is just me. And maybe it's less "learning how to dougie" and more "watching the Teach Me How To Dougie video and trying to figure out what the actual dance move even is." Regardless, that song is awesome, and has spawned a few fantastic things that I want to share.<br /> <br /> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEVhwxvT1MZWDnrrj5oXzpqoz2j2soh_eYsnWo9wdiKNqsbTKLUnNhXGgtiXaGsJm-M69zIDyAQOF3kdITWqEI8g7geVXs-DawAbNakNFyea34uTQYyPn-SjStgEYB-MxDnlAFSv6IQD0/s1600/Teach+Me+How+To+DougieTSRE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="311" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEVhwxvT1MZWDnrrj5oXzpqoz2j2soh_eYsnWo9wdiKNqsbTKLUnNhXGgtiXaGsJm-M69zIDyAQOF3kdITWqEI8g7geVXs-DawAbNakNFyea34uTQYyPn-SjStgEYB-MxDnlAFSv6IQD0/s320/Teach+Me+How+To+DougieTSRE.jpg" width="320" /></a>The first is this  picture, which I spent about 45 minutes making instead of doing work when I was super busy:<br /> <br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> The second is this video, which is one of my favorite things on the internet:</div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> <object height="344" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/IcWJ79yUy3U?fs=1&hl=en_US"> </param> <param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"> </param> <param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"> </param> <embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/IcWJ79yUy3U?fs=1&hl=en_US" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object></div> <br /> The third is the original song, which you should probably listen to, if you've been living under a rock for a while and haven't yet heard it.<br /> <br /> <b>Cali Swag District - Teach Me How To Dougie</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/cEd0TXRkNEhFc0pFQlE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/qLCTVQJe" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /> <br /> The fourth is this mash-up by the hood internet, which is just fantastic. It's The Hood Internet, who always produce quality work, throwing together Cali Swag District's original with Toro Y Moi, that bespectacled chillwaver.<br /> <br /> <b>The Hood Internet - Dougie Vision (Cali Swag District vs. Toro Y Moi)</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/cEd0TXRRNDRlM1JFQlE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/oQY8HnUs" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /> <br /> The fifth is the lead track of Girl Talk's new album, which throws in a little Dougie sample about two minutes in.<br /> <br /> <b>Girl Talk - Oh No</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/cEd0TXRiTEQ4Q1N4dnc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/NMsmb1nX" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /> <br /> The latter two tracks are pretty dope, and they allow you to put "Teach Me How To Dougie" on at your next party without feeling like you're betraying your indie sensibilities. Although, really, you should just rock the original with pride. Do it.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Happy (American) Thanksgiving! The sun is out up here in New England and the Patriots are on this afternoon. Combine that with the food and family and I can almost forget about all the work I have to do this week. Besides gorging on food (and perhaps beverages) Thanksgiving means it is officially the season to listen to Christmas carols. Hooray! Here's a new one by west coast darlings Best Coast and Wavves, alongside with Minus the Bear's classic song for spending time with people you like. Have a good day.

Best Coast & Wavves - Got Something For You (YSI) (filesavr)

Minus the Bear - Absinthe Party at the Fly Honey Warehouse (YSI) (filesavr)

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigBbAv52WzgOpUizIfyzJp0kN5sT7vdxaDZg-hKWYrGCqPmnQBABr93aM344TOH9_cls-t3hTbLzPaWjtt96N_DxEaHGXGacqSBka9A5IaUozGQ1TL8doggeY_JTo7ny7Xa6Iru-1C7OD5/s1600/TSRE+Turkey.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5543266688920149858" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigBbAv52WzgOpUizIfyzJp0kN5sT7vdxaDZg-hKWYrGCqPmnQBABr93aM344TOH9_cls-t3hTbLzPaWjtt96N_DxEaHGXGacqSBka9A5IaUozGQ1TL8doggeY_JTo7ny7Xa6Iru-1C7OD5/s320/TSRE+Turkey.jpg" style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 250px;" /></a>Happy (American) Thanksgiving! The sun is out up here in New England and the Patriots are on this afternoon. Combine that with the food and family and I can almost forget about all the work I have to do this week. Besides gorging on food (and perhaps beverages) Thanksgiving means it is officially the season to listen to Christmas carols. Hooray! Here's a new one by west coast darlings Best Coast and Wavves, alongside with Minus the Bear's classic song for spending time with people you like. Have a good day.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Best Coast & Wavves - Got Something For You </span>(<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/cEd2eW41Qk5qV0JFQlE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/QgHNUlvj" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Minus the Bear - Absinthe Party at the Fly Honey Warehouse</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/cEd2eW41bWcwZ214dnc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/gcoyoktv" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)

Oh Hey There Dave Sitek

Dear Mr. Sitek,

Sorry about missing your new album. Its really great and I think all of your collaborations on it are so creative and well put together. There were so many musical distractions this fall and now Girltalk and Kanye aren't helping, but I've been listening to Maximum Balloon a lot recently - I promise. The grooves are addictive and the number of styles you evoke is impressive. Its a really great album Dave and I appreciate all the guests you brought on board, it made it special. So sorry once again for not giving it the fanfare it deserved on its release, but Maximum Balloon is a pretty awesome album. Keep up the great work Dave and please give my warmest regards to Theophilus London and Kyp Malone.

PS. Hope the next TV on the Radio album is going well!

Best Wishes,

Zack

Maximum Balloon - Groove Me (YSI) (filesavr)

Maximum Balloon - Communion (YSI) (filesavr)

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJkuWytDa2hyphenhyphenWqycP8dzeXvSzx3bO4X9QMOyhAXeY3XLoSTrO7BB9AI3KYG8AeORGm4jd2kuE9gWH_0MGvZECgdUhHzlizL_SMePJF2pSqOvwZeWOjseBbZgcHcRCX2DKQMhMfKU9J4_ly/s1600/TSRE+float.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5542447343000919362" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJkuWytDa2hyphenhyphenWqycP8dzeXvSzx3bO4X9QMOyhAXeY3XLoSTrO7BB9AI3KYG8AeORGm4jd2kuE9gWH_0MGvZECgdUhHzlizL_SMePJF2pSqOvwZeWOjseBbZgcHcRCX2DKQMhMfKU9J4_ly/s320/TSRE+float.jpg" style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 286px; height: 320px;" /></a>Dear Mr. Sitek,<br /><br />Sorry about missing your new album. Its really great and I think all of your collaborations on it are so creative and well put together. There were so many musical distractions this fall and now Girltalk and Kanye aren't helping, but I've been listening to <span style="font-style: italic;">Maximum Balloon</span> a lot recently - I promise. The grooves are addictive and the number of styles you evoke is impressive. Its a really great album Dave and I appreciate all the guests you brought on board, it made it special. So sorry once again for not giving it the fanfare it deserved on its release, but Maximum Balloon is a pretty awesome album. Keep up the great work Dave and please give my warmest regards to Theophilus London and Kyp Malone.<br /><br />PS. Hope the next TV on the Radio album is going well!<br /><br />Best Wishes,<br /><br />Zack<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Maximum Balloon - Groove Me</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/cEd0d0VGaTFGOFN4dnc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/HDo9v8pw" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Maximum Balloon - Communion</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/cEd0d0VERnd0d0h2Wmc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/VZ0sohTO" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)

We've Lost Our Way

Hey everyone, just wanted to say that Chris, Ben, and I have been extremely busy recently with relocations, new jobs, school, etc and as a result posting regularly has suffered. Fear not! TSRE is not going to die and we are going to get back to a regular schedule again soon. So in short, we're lame, but will make good again soon. For now here's Woodsman's take on what it feels like to be lost in a crazy 80s fantasy movie forest.

Woodsman - Insects (YSI) (filesavr)

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPlmnilHXTMDoQ8hM4mozBz-SRpn3MyK9P39bwFogtVkdkVOE6kk4baF1m8bSKTVJv29NTJr95MNIUm8wIfV2cYqyRqihLOjRQA5xkwkOtLaMiprWMDBD1y1N0V1QtWyYTLj_eLJwHz5T-/s1600/TSRE+Somewhere.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5541116601318732642" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPlmnilHXTMDoQ8hM4mozBz-SRpn3MyK9P39bwFogtVkdkVOE6kk4baF1m8bSKTVJv29NTJr95MNIUm8wIfV2cYqyRqihLOjRQA5xkwkOtLaMiprWMDBD1y1N0V1QtWyYTLj_eLJwHz5T-/s320/TSRE+Somewhere.jpg" style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" /></a>Hey everyone, just wanted to say that Chris, Ben, and I have been extremely busy recently with relocations, new jobs, school, etc and as a result posting regularly has suffered. Fear not! TSRE is not going to die and we are going to get back to a regular schedule again soon. So in short, we're lame, but will make good again soon. For now here's Woodsman's take on what it feels like to be lost in a crazy 80s fantasy movie forest.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Woodsman - Insects</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/dklwK2VrdVVxRTN2Wmc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/sV7hepVO" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)

Girl Talk is All Day Every Day

Girl Talk is back with a massive tour and his third album All Day. I won't bore you too much besides the fact that its great, really improves on Feed the Animals - as well as dare I say Night Ripper - and deserves your attention right now. The samples are soooo gooooodddddd.

GET IT HERE RIGHT NOW

Just a little taste and one old goodie:

Girl Talk - Down for the Count (YSI) (filesavr)

Girl Talk - Bounce That (YSI) (filesavr)

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgifnnuHQfwOnAmFSy9aRejEALuTlUDOQ_FXtEzARk2qd74ueEErtcNMpp9gAVqtB16gtTL9bbfzxq5pFvlNLsdkTa8fwB5d62JrFKqk70fpIy0xWK4HG2HcKN5hnJlMgup4BoAe-CJ33rs/s1600/TSRE+Girltalk+2.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5540366923451847938" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgifnnuHQfwOnAmFSy9aRejEALuTlUDOQ_FXtEzARk2qd74ueEErtcNMpp9gAVqtB16gtTL9bbfzxq5pFvlNLsdkTa8fwB5d62JrFKqk70fpIy0xWK4HG2HcKN5hnJlMgup4BoAe-CJ33rs/s320/TSRE+Girltalk+2.jpg" style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 230px;" /></a>Girl Talk is back with a massive tour and his third album <span style="font-style: italic;">All Day</span>. I won't bore you too much besides the fact that its great, really improves on <span style="font-style: italic;">Feed the Animals</span> - as well as dare I say <span style="font-style: italic;">Night Ripper</span> - and deserves your attention right now. The samples are soooo gooooodddddd.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.illegal-art.net/allday/" target="_blank">GET IT HERE RIGHT NOW</a><br /><br />Just a little taste and one old goodie:<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Girl Talk - Down for the Count</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/dklxSkhRUzhveE5jR0E9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/mQdkweTJ" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Girl Talk - Bounce That</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/dklxSkhXSytwcFh2Wmc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/U0Dok7Y5" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)

So...Warpaint's Debut Is Tremendous

I'm a huge Warpaint fan, so it was with great trepidation that I approached their debut LP, The Fool. I was introduced to (and blown away by) Warpaint via their lie show, first at a few SXSW shows, and then at a handful of gigs I saw in New York and Bonnaroo. The girls have a captivating chemistry on stage that makes them engaging to watch, and they swirl their tunes magnificently to take you to another dimension. It's definitely heady psyched rock, but also music that seems visually rooted in nonchalance and camaraderie. How do you get that to come across on an album?

Well, I'm not sure how, but Warpaint managed to pull it off. The Fool is both more focused and more coherent than their debut EP Exquisite Corpse, and manages to capture that same vibe. The album is both intimate and detached, in a pretty unbelievably unexplainable way.

Recently, upstarts Blackbird Blackbird got their electro little paws all over the album's first single, "Undertow,"and turned the blissed out song into a great little electrochill tune. Check out that remix, as well as "Bees," one of my favorite tunes from the album, below.

Warpaint - Bees (YSI) (filesavr)

Warpaint - Undertow (Blackbird Blackbird Remix) (YSI) (filesavr)

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf7aslPyLcS9WTZWOLNfBd74gC56sGzUK26UUdf0Ivqc434h9rj6WgSz-U6NpNos3y0iDKraY5vJqXBAUkAzwozSutax88g3unnNzLh4cZKRsQj32ZATy3zP8pBe38y16IdT5xF_M-zf0/s1600/warpaintTSRE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf7aslPyLcS9WTZWOLNfBd74gC56sGzUK26UUdf0Ivqc434h9rj6WgSz-U6NpNos3y0iDKraY5vJqXBAUkAzwozSutax88g3unnNzLh4cZKRsQj32ZATy3zP8pBe38y16IdT5xF_M-zf0/s320/warpaintTSRE.jpg" width="320" /></a>I'm a huge Warpaint fan, so it was with great trepidation that I approached their debut LP, <i>The Fool</i>. I was introduced to (and blown away by) Warpaint via their lie show, first at a few SXSW shows, and then at a handful of gigs I saw in New York and Bonnaroo. The girls have a captivating chemistry on stage that makes them engaging to watch, and they swirl their tunes magnificently to take you to another dimension. It's definitely heady psyched rock, but also music that seems visually rooted in nonchalance and camaraderie. How do you get that to come across on an album?<br /> <br /> Well, I'm not sure how, but Warpaint managed to pull it off. <i>The Fool</i> is both more focused and more coherent than their debut EP <i>Exquisite Corpse, </i>and manages to capture that same vibe. The album is both intimate and detached, in a pretty unbelievably unexplainable way.<br /> <br /> Recently, upstarts Blackbird Blackbird got their electro little paws all over the album's first single, "Undertow,"and turned the blissed out song into a great little electrochill tune. Check out that remix, as well as "Bees," one of my favorite tunes from the album, below.<br /> <br /> <b>Warpaint - Bees </b>(<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/dklyYkJzR3NENlN4dnc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/vgedq1VF" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /> <br /> <b>Warpaint - Undertow (Blackbird Blackbird Remix)</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/dklyYkJ1Z2p1YlB2Wmc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/ltXHik3V" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)

The Return of Theophilus

Our favorite London/Brooklyn hipster rapper Theophilus London is back following up This Charming Mixtape with his first single Humdrum Town on Green Label Sound. Its a little more emo and dramatic than his hip and rough mixtapes, but it sure is catchy. Despite my nitpicking, its a good song and I'm excited for his proper debut. Included is Crazy Cousins - a favorite from This Charming Mixtape.

Theophilus London - Humdrum Town (YSI) (filesavr)

Theophilus London - Crazy Cousins (YSI) (filesavr)

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbnCIg3tuxm0rrEdUNf0aTeAVTMadBkVBo-Zn6fFjVGHVsC9yQh4nJQFDjiUw3vxpen4bCxXTIHmyUjJvV3bZX0nQXdH9fkwPB3dzlsytM_7EyRhqiQ7ws-63-oL_BxFQBeDbw0k9vLpp0/s1600/TSRE+Theophilus.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5537757886160856898" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbnCIg3tuxm0rrEdUNf0aTeAVTMadBkVBo-Zn6fFjVGHVsC9yQh4nJQFDjiUw3vxpen4bCxXTIHmyUjJvV3bZX0nQXdH9fkwPB3dzlsytM_7EyRhqiQ7ws-63-oL_BxFQBeDbw0k9vLpp0/s320/TSRE+Theophilus.jpg" style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 208px;" /></a>Our favorite London/Brooklyn hipster rapper Theophilus London is back following up <span style="font-style: italic;">This Charming Mixtape</span> with his first single Humdrum Town on Green Label Sound. Its a little more emo and dramatic than his hip and rough mixtapes, but it sure is catchy. Despite my nitpicking, its a good song and I'm excited for his proper debut. Included is Crazy Cousins - a favorite from <span style="font-style: italic;">This Charming Mixtape</span>.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Theophilus London - Humdrum Town </span>(<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/dklwSXQySytVbTgwTVE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/Jzp76fkT" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Theophilus London - Crazy Cousins</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/dklwSXQ1YUl3NUpjR0E9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/UrXtwUK7" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)

Blitzen Trapper 11/4/10 @ The Paradise, Boston

This was my second time seeing Blitzen Trapper and again they did not disappoint. First off the renovations at the Paradise are great: there's a lot more open, the poles are not directly in front of the stage anymore and they can fit a bunch more people in there. Blitzen Trapper performed like I expected them too - and that's not a bad thing. They jammed out to a bunch of new stuff off of Destroyer of the Void and still played all the classics. When Eric Earley pulled out the harmonica all the woodsy goodness really came out in full force. There were epic guitar solos, Eric Earley solo ballads, jokes, keyboard solos, and some awesome harmonica. Pretty much the quality I've come to expect from Blitzen Trapper. I even forget which songs I liked best from the show. Plus, they were onstage for almost an hour and a half!

Blitzen Trapper - Furr (YSI) (filesavr)

Blitzen Trapper - Not Your Lover (YSI) (filesavr)

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYzJulm0vEIAWSYn-9Nl9t62ovF7kdRLFtK15qChueiVTDnmlXtvxDBpAHqMdHisri16L7_x2nmMwxvES5tvuZmwgRzCVFRbNJe8QNCQ-34vKPuNIo1pNSRHW8ykHWVjG3O9Y9HWHaCTfk/s1600/TSRE+Blitzen.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5537160063867672610" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYzJulm0vEIAWSYn-9Nl9t62ovF7kdRLFtK15qChueiVTDnmlXtvxDBpAHqMdHisri16L7_x2nmMwxvES5tvuZmwgRzCVFRbNJe8QNCQ-34vKPuNIo1pNSRHW8ykHWVjG3O9Y9HWHaCTfk/s320/TSRE+Blitzen.jpg" style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 257px;" /></a>This was my second time seeing Blitzen Trapper and again they did not disappoint. First off the renovations at the Paradise are great: there's a lot more open, the poles are not directly in front of the stage anymore and they can fit a bunch more people in there. Blitzen Trapper performed like I expected them too - and that's not a bad thing. They jammed out to a bunch of new stuff off of <span style="font-style: italic;">Destroyer of the Void</span> and still played all the classics. When Eric Earley pulled out the harmonica all the woodsy goodness really came out in full force. There were epic guitar solos, Eric Earley solo ballads, jokes, keyboard solos, and some awesome harmonica. Pretty much the quality I've come to expect from Blitzen Trapper. I even forget which songs I liked best from the show. Plus, they were onstage for almost an hour and a half!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Blitzen Trapper - Furr </span>(<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/dklyRkJUY1NoMld4dnc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/hm5XDzXh" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Blitzen Trapper - Not Your Lover</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/dklyRkJRUzhRWUx2Wmc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/OjBEGWFm" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)

I Juke My Hair

I must admit, I am horribly under-educated with regards to the Chicago Juke scene. Other than Dude 'n Nem, I haven't really ever listened to a juke producer, and even there in moderation. But when a four-to-the-floor juke remix of Willow Smith's "Whip My Hair" - a track that has been bumping non-stop around my pad - dropped into my inbox, I was intrigued. Then I saw that Starfoxxx had looped a Nicki Minaj verse into the mix, and I was done for.

While it does seem a little inappropriate to listen to Minaj rapping about grabbing her crotch over a 9 year-old's track, there's no denying that this remix is pretty dope. It puts the original in a new bouncy light without destroying what made it great in the first place. Willow's vocals are preserved, just jumped up a notch. I dig it, as if that needed to be said.

Willow Smith - Whip My Hair (Starfoxxx Remix f. Nicki Minaj) (YSI) (filesavr)

Dude 'n Nem - Watch My Feet (YSI) (filesavr)

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifk2ksxIbmcDJj2N6eD63aFsk0L4mGQGLnk9xFL-rDT6jlI1GhaMS9lxd-drcvrdxNFKhL4q3mf9nJHcXCFYB4OYpjEZFsXL6kZEmM2Z9n3JctPiQWRpsLqJqWPjY0KVwgsj2Ky1Rynwc/s1600/willowTSRE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="229" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifk2ksxIbmcDJj2N6eD63aFsk0L4mGQGLnk9xFL-rDT6jlI1GhaMS9lxd-drcvrdxNFKhL4q3mf9nJHcXCFYB4OYpjEZFsXL6kZEmM2Z9n3JctPiQWRpsLqJqWPjY0KVwgsj2Ky1Rynwc/s320/willowTSRE.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> I must admit, I am horribly under-educated with regards to the Chicago Juke scene. Other than Dude 'n Nem, I haven't really ever listened to a juke producer, and even there in moderation. But when a four-to-the-floor juke remix of Willow Smith's "Whip My Hair" - a track that has been bumping non-stop around my pad - dropped into my inbox, I was intrigued. Then I saw that Starfoxxx had looped a Nicki Minaj verse into the mix, and I was done for.<br /> <br /> While it does seem a little inappropriate to listen to Minaj rapping about grabbing her crotch over a 9 year-old's track, there's no denying that this remix is pretty dope. It puts the original in a new bouncy light without destroying what made it great in the first place. Willow's vocals are preserved, just jumped up a notch. I dig it, as if that needed to be said.<br /> <br /> <b>Willow Smith - Whip My Hair (Starfoxxx Remix f. Nicki Minaj)</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/dklwd0VPd0E5NVh2Wmc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/kpOILZpd" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /> <br /> <b>Dude 'n Nem - Watch My Feet</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/dklwd0VBTXZHa05jR0E9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/o2rInwPt" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)

Kids & Explosions Are Blowin' Up

There's an excitement that comes with stumbling across a transfiguration of a genre - an artist who has taken an established type of music, twists it around, and flips it on its head. Kids & Explosions does just that, doing for the mash-up what Girl Talk did for the remix. Kids & Explosion's version of the multi-track mash is a frantic, disjointed one, but in a brilliantly fluid sort of way. The herky-jerky moves of the tracks on Shit Computer somehow combine to form a beautiful whole, in an inexplicable kind of way.

Like Girl Talk, Kids & Explosions invites you to play name-that-sample throughout the entirety of the album. More than that, he creates an interesting rhythm that transcends pop to become something one step further. The entire album is pretty incredible, so I feel a bit weird pulling out a couple tracks to share. Nevertheless, check out a couple tunes below. And please, for the love of music, download the whole mixtape; it's pay-what-you-want, and if this doesn't deserve a couple dollars, I don't know what does.

Kids & Explosions - The New Science (YSI) (filesavr)

Kids & Explosions - Use Your Words (YSI) (filesavr)

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2cpCtrCLhyphenhyphenmv5FgXvDxTk5Mw4OKSQLBrCUbrcd8bSxSkWWL5stN8JrfhhwDSTmpIzVvMB7LxEoNAnpSpigD4CDtH72v3u5pGAumNwCvZKudkCC8EtG1ZjzuYYNiWgAwm5oE7oZjLOrbM/s1600/explosionTSRE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2cpCtrCLhyphenhyphenmv5FgXvDxTk5Mw4OKSQLBrCUbrcd8bSxSkWWL5stN8JrfhhwDSTmpIzVvMB7LxEoNAnpSpigD4CDtH72v3u5pGAumNwCvZKudkCC8EtG1ZjzuYYNiWgAwm5oE7oZjLOrbM/s320/explosionTSRE.jpg" width="320" /></a>There's an excitement that comes with stumbling across a transfiguration of a genre - an artist who has taken an established type of music, twists it around, and flips it on its head. Kids & Explosions does just that, doing for the mash-up what Girl Talk did for the remix. Kids & Explosion's version of the multi-track mash is a frantic, disjointed one, but in a brilliantly fluid sort of way. The herky-jerky moves of the tracks on <i>Shit Computer</i> somehow combine to form a beautiful whole, in an inexplicable kind of way.<br /> <br /> Like Girl Talk, Kids & Explosions invites you to play name-that-sample throughout the entirety of the album. More than that, he creates an interesting rhythm that transcends pop to become something one step further. The entire album is pretty incredible, so I feel a bit weird pulling out a couple tracks to share. Nevertheless, check out a couple tunes below. And please, for the love of music, download the whole mixtape; it's pay-what-you-want, and if this doesn't deserve a couple dollars, I don't know what does.<br /> <br /> Kids & Explosions - The New Science (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/dklwd0VGaTFRYSt4dnc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/v7QP7fI3" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /> <br /> Kids & Explosions - Use Your Words (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/dklwd0VKbWdsMHcwTVE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/qnYBYPUm" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)

Cutting It Up With Gold Panda

So many songs to blawg about, so little time. I'm on a big electronic kick, so I'll start with the most electronic of the bunch - Gold Panda. Gold Panda is a UK producer who you might know from last year's banger "Quitter's Raga."

Well he's back with a full-length, Lucky Shiner, and it's completely dope. The first track alone has racked up an inordinate amount of spins from me in the past couple weeks. "You" is completely addictive in the way the CD-skipping of Four Tet and The Books is addicting.

You is more than just a pop piece, though. In fact, it reminds me of a fascinating track by Paul Lansky, wherein Lansky took human voices, cut them off so that the syllables were unintelligible, and orchestrated a masterful song. They aren't siblings, but these songs are certainly cousins. I think they're both fantastic and fascinating, I hope you enjoy as well.

Gold Panda - You (YSI) (filesavr)

Paul Lansky - Notjustmoreidlechatter (YSI) (filesavr)

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI4Zdg4-Z1YE8Co6Aex71sNJFYcXk1youFGPOe5zyQuY7yf1MHEaHdG9jsDyWKTaWRiv0adw0FRyUVVC8il3prVMh3Wprbj89c9CchcHdurgey4XxSqUnpCIbGcEQ8r-LVTFmhe8b1Ou0/s1600/goldpandaTSRE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="220" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI4Zdg4-Z1YE8Co6Aex71sNJFYcXk1youFGPOe5zyQuY7yf1MHEaHdG9jsDyWKTaWRiv0adw0FRyUVVC8il3prVMh3Wprbj89c9CchcHdurgey4XxSqUnpCIbGcEQ8r-LVTFmhe8b1Ou0/s320/goldpandaTSRE.jpg" width="320" /></a>So many songs to blawg about, so little time. I'm on a big electronic kick, so I'll start with the most electronic of the bunch - Gold Panda. Gold Panda is a UK producer who you might know from last year's banger "Quitter's Raga."<br /> <br /> Well he's back with a full-length, <i>Lucky Shiner</i>, and it's completely dope. The first track alone has racked up an inordinate amount of spins from me in the past couple weeks. "You" is completely addictive in the way the CD-skipping of Four Tet and The Books is addicting.<br /> <br /> You is more than just a pop piece, though. In fact, it reminds me of a fascinating track by Paul Lansky, wherein Lansky took human voices, cut them off so that the syllables were unintelligible, and orchestrated a masterful song. They aren't siblings, but these songs are certainly cousins. I think they're both fantastic and fascinating, I hope you enjoy as well.<br /> <br /> <b>Gold Panda - You</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/dklwd0VORkV6NEt4dnc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/Lbck7DE1" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /> <br /> <b>Paul Lansky - Notjustmoreidlechatter</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/dklwd0VFdVV3NUt4dnc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/181BSYZK" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)

I Play This Game Like Its a Sport

Sports are super serious and are never fun. That mentality is certainly visible in these two tracks by SPORTS. Just kidding, these tracks are vintage 80s electronica with surprisingly catchy, and similarly 80s, vocals. I was just expecting some electronics, but instead SPORTS craft complete songs that rise above a lot of the other stuff floating around out there. SPORTS treat the music industry like its a sport - game face.

SPORTS - Every World is a World of your Own (YSI) (filesavr)

SPORTS - To Catch a Thief (YSI) (filesavr)

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_iQ0TbXwVpjqH7gwBQGagQNh8WN0oeHG0agka-OMI6ID5Ct_H9s8B_dhRsAFSLFZTLaPVzXZmPX1JEvS1NvL19Ki2nRgT9JzpI2nQB2K6FVc3U2CB_LIepaP_C5W1yjhnWe1sD86fbVtG/s1600/TSRE+Sports.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5534182450909119938" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_iQ0TbXwVpjqH7gwBQGagQNh8WN0oeHG0agka-OMI6ID5Ct_H9s8B_dhRsAFSLFZTLaPVzXZmPX1JEvS1NvL19Ki2nRgT9JzpI2nQB2K6FVc3U2CB_LIepaP_C5W1yjhnWe1sD86fbVtG/s320/TSRE+Sports.jpg" style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 230px;" /></a>Sports are super serious and are never fun. That mentality is certainly visible in these two tracks by SPORTS. Just kidding, these tracks are vintage 80s electronica with surprisingly catchy, and similarly 80s, vocals. I was just expecting some electronics, but instead SPORTS craft complete songs that rise above a lot of the other stuff floating around out there. SPORTS treat the music industry like its a sport - game face.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">SPORTS - Every World is a World of your Own</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/ZGJjT0NUb0I4NVZjR0E9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/ecFyYszN" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">SPORTS - To Catch a Thief </span>(<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/ZGJjT0NZWlRCSWRFQlE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/4GHjuZTH" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)

Halloween!

Its Halloween! We may be super busy, which is preventing us from posting as frequently, but at least everyone with a busy schedule can relax and enjoy Halloween this year. Its fun to watch the kids, have an excuse to eat candy, or just watch football all day. In the spooky spirit of the day here's a dance track from Dent May's alter ego Dent Sweat (great name!) and a nostalgic little rambler from The Growlers about graveyards.

Dent Sweat - I Don't Mind (YSI) (filesavr)

The Growlers - Graveyard's Full (YSI) (filesavr)

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicVUIxZ77UGD6ivovolczJY1bdZxATQbHgDOnkpmTr7flQ4FQvhz1KwsqbAW2_P_pK3qhHXzhLQbFx885WDa-NGI0N_W4YutmbtcV912ovOm0wpfpYY4V5Rxl5cBykSWyXcBdaCAW5vf8p/s1600/TSRE+Bette+Midler.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5534180065203897234" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicVUIxZ77UGD6ivovolczJY1bdZxATQbHgDOnkpmTr7flQ4FQvhz1KwsqbAW2_P_pK3qhHXzhLQbFx885WDa-NGI0N_W4YutmbtcV912ovOm0wpfpYY4V5Rxl5cBykSWyXcBdaCAW5vf8p/s320/TSRE+Bette+Midler.jpg" style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" /></a>Its Halloween! We may be super busy, which is preventing us from posting as frequently, but at least everyone with a busy schedule can relax and enjoy Halloween this year. Its fun to watch the kids, have an excuse to eat candy, or just watch football all day. In the spooky spirit of the day here's a dance track from Dent May's alter ego Dent Sweat (great name!) and a nostalgic little rambler from The Growlers about graveyards.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Dent Sweat - I Don't Mind</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/ZGJjT0NTVnNRYTljR0E9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/1Efxxm1Q" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Growlers - Graveyard's Full </span>(<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/ZGJjT0NkdENCMTVjR0E9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/odrqu5LN" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)

Glasser is my New Favorite

Lets just put this on paper right off the bat - Glasser is awesome. Her debut album Ring lets you know that immediately though with its stuttering drums intro. Complementing her big sounds, Glasser has a huge resonant voice and she uses all its capabilities. The instrumentation is really interesting as well. There are a lot of live drums, as well as electronics. For me at least, Ring sounds likes a more energetic and enjoyable Bats for Lashes. Seriously go check it out.

Glasser - Apply (YSI) (filesavr)

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM7rWD_fAKnQL6Rq3HBBeR7Aj_ZHQkU3-qxrNsgbx6AB2Ogl8ZkiKQjWKDrBwgfrpgJVhGEf0fWi7o-iSESF5AQ-AHPnCpkN7MytUnk-K2tQgmR5Y8TR0ItokIJ7Z7V1XR5CGB7lyOuCJQ/s1600/TRSE+MR+GlASS.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5533062502209294562" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM7rWD_fAKnQL6Rq3HBBeR7Aj_ZHQkU3-qxrNsgbx6AB2Ogl8ZkiKQjWKDrBwgfrpgJVhGEf0fWi7o-iSESF5AQ-AHPnCpkN7MytUnk-K2tQgmR5Y8TR0ItokIJ7Z7V1XR5CGB7lyOuCJQ/s320/TRSE+MR+GlASS.jpg" style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 210px;" /></a>Lets just put this on paper right off the bat - Glasser is awesome. Her debut album <span style="font-style: italic;">Ring</span> lets you know that immediately though with its stuttering drums intro. Complementing her big sounds, Glasser has a huge resonant voice and she uses all its capabilities. The instrumentation is really interesting as well. There are a lot of live drums, as well as electronics. For me at least, <span style="font-style: italic;">Ring</span> sounds likes a more energetic and enjoyable Bats for Lashes. Seriously go check it out.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Glasser - Apply</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/ZGJkZFh1dzhLVlZFQlE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/fWawuPkC" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)

Want To Write A Hit Song? Sing About Ray-Bans.

I have a theory. It's a simple theory, and - if followed correctly - will lead you to write brilliant and addictive pop songs. Ready? Here it is.

Write about Ray-Ban glasses.

Simple as that. A quick survey has proven that every single one of the three songs in my iTunes library containing the words "Ray-Ban"is completely awesome, which, according to the rule of three, makes it scientifically proven.

It started with Le Corps Mince De Francoise, which (if I'm not mistaken) is some sort of Spanish band. The song is incredible, as I detailed in...detail, right here.

The theory was just further proved by A-Trak, one of the most impressive DJs in the game right now. Teaming up with hip hop newcomer (and Kanye protege) CyHi Da Prynce, he crafts an addictively dirty tune that keeps finding its way into my ears every time I put on my headphones. Please don't sleep on this track if you like any sort of hip hop at all.

Now if you'll excuse me, I'm off to write some songs about Ray Ban glasses.

A-Trak f. CyHi Da Prynce - Ray-Ban Vision (YSI) (filesavr)

Le Corps Mince De Francoise - Ray-Ban Glasses (Les Gilletes Remix) (YSI) (filesavr)

Le Corps Mince De Francoise - Ray-Ban Glasses (Acoustic Winter Mix) (YSI) (filesavr)

I have a theory. It's a simple theory, and - if followed correctly - will lead you to write brilliant and addictive pop songs. Ready? Here it is.<br /> <div class="p1"> <br /></div> <div class="p1"> Write about Ray-Ban glasses.</div> <div class="p1"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFrPieYJkZ60h4G7i3ZBdC3RzWkN9BfENVPBA_Dl1KMAnHPcMCAB6RNRIilt6DRr5wY5qVEIp0HQhLV0M1MGGs7vABaBsfvDLPh5X8Tid6VD6LzIkYGfdQWurppGVcaoqZjYvG6qnfJdI/s1600/ray-ban-logoTSRE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFrPieYJkZ60h4G7i3ZBdC3RzWkN9BfENVPBA_Dl1KMAnHPcMCAB6RNRIilt6DRr5wY5qVEIp0HQhLV0M1MGGs7vABaBsfvDLPh5X8Tid6VD6LzIkYGfdQWurppGVcaoqZjYvG6qnfJdI/s1600/ray-ban-logoTSRE.jpg" /></a></div> <br /> Simple as that. A quick survey has proven that every single one of the three songs in my iTunes library containing the words "Ray-Ban"is completely awesome, which, according to the rule of three, makes it scientifically proven.</div> <div class="p1"> <br /> It started with Le Corps Mince De Francoise, which (if I'm not mistaken) is some sort of Spanish band. The song is incredible, as I detailed in...detail, right <a href="http://www.thestureidexperiment.com/2009/04/chameleons-make-ray-ban-glasses-even.html" target="_blank">here</a>.</div> <div class="p1"> <br /> The theory was just further proved by A-Trak, one of the most impressive DJs in the game right now. Teaming up with hip hop newcomer (and Kanye protege) CyHi Da Prynce, he crafts an addictively dirty tune that keeps finding its way into my ears every time I put on my headphones. Please don't sleep on this track if you like any sort of hip hop at all.</div> <div class="p1"> <br /> Now if you'll excuse me, I'm off to write some songs about Ray Ban glasses.</div> <div class="p1"> <b><br /></b><br /> <b>A-Trak f. CyHi Da Prynce - Ray-Ban Vision </b>(<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/ZGJmYUl1ZDU3bUJjR0E9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/peEH6Myp" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)</div> <div class="p2"> <br /></div> <div class="p1"> <b>Le Corps Mince De Francoise - Ray-Ban Glasses (Les Gilletes Remix) </b>(<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/ZGJmYUlqTSt3TGcwTVE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/UeLPbVw7" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)</div> <div class="p2"> <br /></div> <div class="p1"> <b>Le Corps Mince De Francoise - Ray-Ban Glasses (Acoustic Winter Mix) </b>(<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/ZGJmYUl1K3hqV0EwTVE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/TmvaoDsi" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)</div>

Do You Like Video Games? Umberto Seemingly Does

This is some dark music. Perfect for a demonic rave from a Blade movie, or some updated super nintendo game music. Its been compared to something out of a Castlevania game - perfect! Heavy, atmospheric, and mysterious, Umberto really infuses his electronic music with some drama. Not for everyone, but it draws you in - not to mention the video game nostalgia.

Umberto - Temple Room (YSI) (filesavr)

Umberto - Someone Chasing Someone Through a House (YSI) (filesavr)

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUHpYB2hbGeB8ay0A-veb2cJgS1QygcoI_g-VvUqXZBA1TI5vbIZhflhIl4OIAfySgGjde2hfQPCIMxT8HTZM6dHvtrsMWsp0lxkgGB87HOrSWNeeXrkY8fqS3vwdiNPlrFZ22HTE1MmTT/s1600/TSRE+Castlevania.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5530677242459109042" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUHpYB2hbGeB8ay0A-veb2cJgS1QygcoI_g-VvUqXZBA1TI5vbIZhflhIl4OIAfySgGjde2hfQPCIMxT8HTZM6dHvtrsMWsp0lxkgGB87HOrSWNeeXrkY8fqS3vwdiNPlrFZ22HTE1MmTT/s320/TSRE+Castlevania.jpg" style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 262px;" /></a>This is some dark music. Perfect for a demonic rave from a Blade movie, or some updated super nintendo game music. Its been compared to something out of a Castlevania game - perfect! Heavy, atmospheric, and mysterious, Umberto really infuses his electronic music with some drama. Not for everyone, but it draws you in - not to mention the video game nostalgia.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Umberto - Temple Room</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/ZGJkR0lUb0JveE94dnc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/mCgtFuJn" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Umberto - Someone Chasing Someone Through a House</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/ZGJkR0lZWlRrYUEwTVE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/MnDwJSuT" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)

Family Portrait is Perfect for Fall

I don't know very much about Family Portrait, but Glide Part One and Two are rustic, jangly pop gems that are perfect for fall. Call me a sucker for melodic vocals that aren't actually words (I don't really know how to put that better). I was up in Maine last weekend and these would have loved to play these in the car while driving through the rural hills. Just like fall presaging the coming winter, Family Portrait has just the right twinge of melancholy to really embody the joy and dread of autumn.

Family Portrait - Glide Part One (YSI) (filesavr)

Family Portrait - Glide Part Two (YSI) (filesavr)

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgw6GbbqAa4WCoD9QFt04HLwTttypew5XaRRJnzXOSVD-e0rOvumH3Fm_M7G3NzcdUoRCarixDHCgM5xMmZxc8rqeD37hbMOlFHnVjKx6NgmOI0cKnTcnMSNObUXaa6h7slnKw00ITSSwu/s1600/TSRE+Colorful+Trees.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5530674570765022914" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgw6GbbqAa4WCoD9QFt04HLwTttypew5XaRRJnzXOSVD-e0rOvumH3Fm_M7G3NzcdUoRCarixDHCgM5xMmZxc8rqeD37hbMOlFHnVjKx6NgmOI0cKnTcnMSNObUXaa6h7slnKw00ITSSwu/s320/TSRE+Colorful+Trees.jpg" style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 212px;" /></a>I don't know very much about Family Portrait, but Glide Part One and Two are rustic, jangly pop gems that are perfect for fall. Call me a sucker for melodic vocals that aren't actually words (I don't really know how to put that better). I was up in Maine last weekend and these would have loved to play these in the car while driving through the rural hills. Just like fall presaging the coming winter, Family Portrait has just the right twinge of melancholy to really embody the joy and dread of autumn.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Family Portrait - Glide Part One</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/ZGJkR0lUb0JPSHp2Wmc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/zeLiCIfO" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Family Portrait - Glide Part Two</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/ZGJkR0lUb0JVbTljR0E9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/P84eRGij" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)

Join The Cults

Cults and I are a band that have had all kinds of friendship, specifically in that I really like one of their songs and one time I saw them live. But that one song of theirs, "Go Outside," is completely awesome. Like immediately addictive and inescapable. So much so that it was all over the internets within weeks of the band spinning up. End of story? This song is dope and if you haven't heard it yet you're missing out.


Cults - Go Outside (YSI) (filesavr)

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEituQTZkEaZ1lkzjCwxikzAsfg8xlZWUa7t_oXzTyaQFG2cjgy54oOEMQK_5ao4myjwetbRep1yNrg0fv2HD1_NqGhR8VuMh85fHguMTAQwuy_HL1nBh3ZlTheDvV1f_DqxMhe_ozg7al4/s1600/cultsTSRE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="307" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEituQTZkEaZ1lkzjCwxikzAsfg8xlZWUa7t_oXzTyaQFG2cjgy54oOEMQK_5ao4myjwetbRep1yNrg0fv2HD1_NqGhR8VuMh85fHguMTAQwuy_HL1nBh3ZlTheDvV1f_DqxMhe_ozg7al4/s320/cultsTSRE.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> Cults and I are a band that have had all kinds of friendship, specifically in that I really like one of their songs and one time I saw them live. But that one song of theirs, "Go Outside," is completely awesome. Like immediately addictive and inescapable. So much so that it was all over the internets within weeks of the band spinning up. End of story? This song is dope and if you haven't heard it yet you're missing out.<br /> <b><br /></b><br /> <b>Cults - Go Outside </b>(<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/WTNKanZucHY4aU0wTVE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/2GpQz6ab" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)

Fall Music: Eternal Summers - Silver

Based on name alone, Eternal Summers might sound like some dudes doing summery chillwave or surfy stuff, but this guitar and drum duo is fun for all seasons. The duo's debut LP Silver came out on Sept 28th and is filled with girl vocals, ragged guitars, and short, direct song structures. The songs themselves vary from decisive and up tempo to hazy and languid. I find myself really digging the up tempo tracks and getting a little lost in the other stuff, but overall its a promising and fun debut.

Eternal Summers - Disciplinarian (YSI) (filesavr)

Eternal Summers - Pogo (YSI) (filesavr)

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtlFyYwivWldbiGGtErAii0DcyWFoeMyfJvQSJu-TMpOf57yweE7Q6SLDIdNukt0hb6sU3zeA0Tg1v0UsfGrkoYohIKccMZ6OITZU7AORTwjdxXPrjpY1AsW9FvjO3qdzCFBFR_iyIzx5G/s1600/TSRE+Eternal+Summers.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5527920140346258306" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtlFyYwivWldbiGGtErAii0DcyWFoeMyfJvQSJu-TMpOf57yweE7Q6SLDIdNukt0hb6sU3zeA0Tg1v0UsfGrkoYohIKccMZ6OITZU7AORTwjdxXPrjpY1AsW9FvjO3qdzCFBFR_iyIzx5G/s320/TSRE+Eternal+Summers.jpg" style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 241px; height: 320px;" /></a>Based on name alone, Eternal Summers might sound like some dudes doing summery chillwave or surfy stuff, but this guitar and drum duo is fun for all seasons. The duo's debut LP <span style="font-style: italic;">Silver</span> came out on Sept 28th and is filled with girl vocals, ragged guitars, and short, direct song structures. The songs themselves vary from decisive and up tempo to hazy and languid. I find myself really digging the up tempo tracks and getting a little lost in the other stuff, but overall its a promising and fun debut.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Eternal Summers - Disciplinarian</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/ZGJmV28zQzNRWUt4dnc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/LjMZsc2e" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Eternal Summers - Pogo </span>(<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/ZGJmV28zQzNQb0x2Wmc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/ZysSHlnZ" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)

A Night Out with Mike Skinner

I've been doing a bunch of late night driving in the past month and recently an unexpected guest has been keeping me in good company. Randomly I decided to put on Original Pirate Material and listened to it from end to end in the car this past week. The album has everything: humor, bangers sampling Bartok and some beautifully atmospheric tracks. The double whammy opening of Turn the Page followed by Has It Come To This is one of the most epic and contemplative openings to a hip hop album. That combination really gets me thinking, especially in the car at night. Next time you find yourself driving alone at night might I suggest you find Mike Skinner and see if he'd hang out for a bit. He is a worthwhile passenger.

The Streets - Turn the Page (YSI) (filesavr)

The Streets - Has It Come To This (YSI) (filesavr)

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7Vc1VNcRvTB9hFWqV8YpxDFMSlBuNJ8djTt5MWQgCPRMP-ed5Gkz3QC4JmIG7vRVrjPOsZFovD2N8ErJSP2vCag0hfelrrwEaKiuWrF5zkSeJKeIxxd179XVl0P2EKPsZBVHi9b7jyKlY/s1600/TSRE+Barrio.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5527373968109510978" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7Vc1VNcRvTB9hFWqV8YpxDFMSlBuNJ8djTt5MWQgCPRMP-ed5Gkz3QC4JmIG7vRVrjPOsZFovD2N8ErJSP2vCag0hfelrrwEaKiuWrF5zkSeJKeIxxd179XVl0P2EKPsZBVHi9b7jyKlY/s320/TSRE+Barrio.jpg" style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 217px;" /></a>I've been doing a bunch of late night driving in the past month and recently an unexpected guest has been keeping me in good company. Randomly I decided to put on <span style="font-style: italic;">Original Pirate Material</span> and listened to it from end to end in the car this past week. The album has everything: humor, bangers sampling Bartok and some beautifully atmospheric tracks. The double whammy opening of Turn the Page followed by Has It Come To This is one of the most epic and contemplative openings to a hip hop album. That combination really gets me thinking, especially in the car at night. Next time you find yourself driving alone at night might I suggest you find Mike Skinner and see if he'd hang out for a bit. He is a worthwhile passenger.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Streets - Turn the Page</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/ZGJjUGhRYTIzS3J2Wmc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/lGLba2I0" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Streets - Has It Come To This</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/ZGJjUGhRYTIwMEh2Wmc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/hgjrv5iL" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)

It's ALIVE!

Thousands of horns have heralded the impending death of classical music. And it's hard not to appreciate that there are many issues facing the genre: audiences that are getting both smaller and older, a population whose attention spans may be shrinking to the point that a 15-minute piece of music (let alone a 2-hour concert) is simply too long to follow, an old-fashioned and stuffy concert hall experience that turns off a younger generation, to name a few. As a lover of classical music (and a member of the classical music "industry"), I hope with all of my hopes that classical music doesn't die.

Occasionally there are glimmers of hope. There is the oft-cited popularity of (le) Poisson Rouge in NYC, which regularly programs contemporary classical music in a bar/lounge setting. There is the success of the Met Opera's live HD broadcast program. And then there is the following YouTube clip that I came across this morning. It features a 3-year old conducting the final movement of Beethoven's famous 5th Symphony.

Here is a child who hasn't yet learned that classical music is stuffy, that classical music is for old people. He is physically engaged with this music, grinning the whole time as he wiggles around. He occasionally claps, and laughs, and at one particularly adorable moment exclaims, "It's my favorite part!" as the symphony accelerates into its final, triumphant moments. What a contrast to the typical classical music experience! I'm not sure where to go with this, but I'm pretty sure that the classical music world can learn something from Jonathan.

Beethoven - Symphony No. 5: IV. Allegro (YSI)

Beethoven - Piano Concerto No. 4: II. Andante con moto (YSI)

<span class="Apple-style-span" style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" >Thousands of horns have heralded the impending death of classical music. And it's hard not to appreciate that there are many issues facing the genre: audiences that are getting both smaller and older, a population whose attention spans may be shrinking to the point that a 15-minute piece of music (let alone a 2-hour concert) is simply too long to follow, an old-fashioned and stuffy concert hall experience that turns off a younger generation, to name a few. As a lover of classical music (and a member of the classical music "industry"), I hope with all of my hopes that classical music doesn't die. <div><br /></div><div>Occasionally there are glimmers of hope. There is the oft-cited popularity of (le) Poisson Rouge in NYC, which regularly programs contemporary classical music in a bar/lounge setting. There is the success of the Met Opera's live HD broadcast program. And then there is the following YouTube clip that I came across this morning. It features a 3-year old conducting the final movement of Beethoven's famous 5th Symphony.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /><object height="344" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/0REJ-lCGiKU?fs=1&hl=en_US"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/0REJ-lCGiKU?fs=1&hl=en_US" allowscriptaccess="never" allowfullscreen="true" wmode="transparent" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Here is a child who hasn't yet learned that classical music is stuffy, that classical music is for old people. He is physically engaged with this music, grinning the whole time as he wiggles around. He occasionally claps, and laughs, and at one particularly adorable moment exclaims, "It's my favorite part!" as the symphony accelerates into its final, triumphant moments. What a contrast to the typical classical music experience! I'm not sure where to go with this, but I'm pretty sure that the classical music world can learn something from Jonathan. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>Beethoven - Symphony No. 5: IV. Allegro</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/ZGJmc0w5NEhPSHp2Wmc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>)</div><div><b>Beethoven - Piano Concerto No. 4: II. Andante con moto</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/ZGJmc0w5OW5BNkUwTVE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>)</div></span>

100 Acre-Wide Beats

I found 100 Akres through and friend of a friend, who mentioned that these songs were a bit slower than his standard bumping beats. I immediately hunted it down, eager to find big beats that didn't feel rushed. I wasn't disappointed - The Billy Ocean Beat Tape is full of bangers that go down easy, without the stress of up-tempo hip hop. A lot of the tracks sound like ideas that aren't fully recognized, but I kind of like how much is left to the imagination.

At his strongest, 100 Akres is reminiscent of Black Milk's more focused moments, letting beats build on themselves naturally, stacking up in your mind until they're larger than life. There are snippets of Dilla and DJ Shadow, but in a lot of ways, this tape is its own animal. Not much more to say about it, since it's a short fifteen minutes long, but know that it's the perfect length for taking a break from work, cranking the bass, leaning back, and feeling baaaaaad.

100 Akres - Lost You (Sleepin' On The Flow) (YSI) (filesavr)

100 Akres - I-10 (YSI) (filesavr)

Mos Def - Priority (100 Akres Remix) (YSI) (filesavr)

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtcq9Ek91HOLSykGQsI17MHbTPp9wF3zqeXMPyfvrXCQ05cZHdq-matzfPKseTrbDXNzRBinS93JrKnXJL9Eiv3p2gHGnf_kM_xE3XmOYg124tQ4Bafgr0JPZi01U_JiPKMuBNc4NZkt0/s1600/100akresTSRE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtcq9Ek91HOLSykGQsI17MHbTPp9wF3zqeXMPyfvrXCQ05cZHdq-matzfPKseTrbDXNzRBinS93JrKnXJL9Eiv3p2gHGnf_kM_xE3XmOYg124tQ4Bafgr0JPZi01U_JiPKMuBNc4NZkt0/s320/100akresTSRE.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> I found 100 Akres through and friend of a friend, who mentioned that these songs were a bit slower than his standard bumping beats. I immediately hunted it down, eager to find big beats that didn't feel rushed. I wasn't disappointed - <i>The Billy Ocean Beat Tape</i> is full of bangers that go down easy, without the stress of up-tempo hip hop. A lot of the tracks sound like ideas that aren't fully recognized, but I kind of like how much is left to the imagination.<br /> <br /> At his strongest, 100 Akres is reminiscent of Black Milk's more focused moments, letting beats build on themselves naturally, stacking up in your mind until they're larger than life. There are snippets of Dilla and DJ Shadow, but in a lot of ways, this tape is its own animal. Not much more to say about it, since it's a short fifteen minutes long, but know that it's the perfect length for taking a break from work, cranking the bass, leaning back, and feeling baaaaaad.<br /> <br /> 100 Akres - Lost You (Sleepin' On The Flow) (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/WTNKanZnUzhCTWxjR0E9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/C9ZrrWGO" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /> <br /> 100 Akres - I-10 (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/WTNKanZpd0lwcFd4dnc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/JZ2cPMcd" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /> <br /> Mos Def - Priority (100 Akres Remix) (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/WTNKanZtSys3N0JFQlE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/zUF7utrb" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)

In Which Sufjan Stevens Makes Me Feel A Bit Unnecessary

I wrote a review of Sufjan Stevens' new album, The Age of Adz which drops today, over on Pretty Much Amazing. It's a pretty analytical review of what I think is one of the strongest albums of this year - a year that has been pretty great for good music. Check it out if you want to do some reading, but know that what I really want to write about the album is this:

AHHHHHHH, "I Want To Be Well" is like the best song evarr and I cannot stop listening to it and Sufjan Stevens is like so heady man, like so heady that I can't even get it, and I am unbelievably pumped to be seeing him in concert in a month, and this album is crazy and weird and hard to comprehend, but it's also kind of earth shatteringly good at moments, and "I Want To Be Well" is basically six and a half minutes of those earth shatteringly good moments stacked back to back to back to back, and when he starts singing "I Want To Be Well" I can't help thinking about Ben's post about Lester Bangs writing about how Van Morrison inflected words, and then a couple seconds later I can't help thinking about Thom Yorke and Radiohead when Sufjan sings "I'm not fucking around" backed by chaotic instrumentals and a chorus, and the whole thing is just bloody brilliant and makes me feel a bit inconsequential.

So you should listen to it. On headphones. Loud.

Thanks.

Sufjan Stevens - I Want To Be Well (YSI) (filesavr)

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM_ZKHcfMwfCqAdZb8tm_x4IwFfSiK121YEqXqdA1eApO4ASNSsLEglFoT03buI2Wv1uVzk96PkHTKmg7OeLXWiW8eAG0VD6_KeJsihEX1QoWkzN6znYPUwIfILpIywMb-89L7HDBHW0o/s1600/sufjanTSRE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM_ZKHcfMwfCqAdZb8tm_x4IwFfSiK121YEqXqdA1eApO4ASNSsLEglFoT03buI2Wv1uVzk96PkHTKmg7OeLXWiW8eAG0VD6_KeJsihEX1QoWkzN6znYPUwIfILpIywMb-89L7HDBHW0o/s320/sufjanTSRE.jpg" width="234" /></a>I wrote a <a href="http://prettymuchamazing.com/reviews/albumreviews/album-stream-sufjan-stevens-the-age-of-adz" target="_blank">review</a> of Sufjan Stevens' new album, <i>The Age of Adz</i> which drops today, over on Pretty Much Amazing. It's a pretty analytical review of what I think is one of the strongest albums of this year - a year that has been pretty great for good music. Check it out if you want to do some reading, but know that what I really want to write about the album is this:<br /> <br /> AHHHHHHH, "I Want To Be Well" is like the best song evarr and I cannot stop listening to it and Sufjan Stevens is like so heady man, like so heady that I can't even get it, and I am unbelievably pumped to be seeing him in concert in a month, and this album is crazy and weird and hard to comprehend, but it's also kind of earth shatteringly good at moments, and "I Want To Be Well" is basically six and a half minutes of those earth shatteringly good moments stacked back to back to back to back, and when he starts singing "I Want To Be Well" I can't help thinking about Ben's <a href="http://www.thestureidexperiment.com/2009/02/love-that-loves-love-that-loves-love.html" target="_blank">post</a> about Lester Bangs writing about how Van Morrison inflected words, and then a couple seconds later I can't help thinking about Thom Yorke and Radiohead when Sufjan sings "I'm not fucking around" backed by chaotic instrumentals and a chorus, and the whole thing is just bloody brilliant and makes me feel a bit inconsequential.<br /> <br /> So you should listen to it. On headphones. Loud.<br /> <br /> Thanks.<br /> <br /> Sufjan Stevens - I Want To Be Well (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/WTNKanZuTkFqV0EwTVE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/llF18NQh" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)

Stu Reid Under The Covers: Warpaint Takes On Bowie, Benders Cover Dylan, and First Aid Kit Does Fever Ray

Oh man, seems like good covers are dropping left and right these days, through various projects, compilations, cover albums, and websites. Here's a quick sampling of some of the best of the best:

Warpaint Takes on Bowie
Warpaint, one of my favorite live bands of the past year, is getting set to release their debut album, The Fool, in late October. In the meantime, they're keeping us plied with good tunes, via a single release and this here cover. They cover David Bowie's "Ashes To Ashes," from Scary Monsters (and Super Creeps). It's beautifully done and psychedelically minded, like almost everything Warpaint does.

Warpaint - Ashes to Ashes (David Bowie Cover) (YSI) (filesavr)

Morning Benders Cover Bob Dylan
Another of my favorite acts of 2010 have gotten in on the cover game, taking on Bob Dylan's "Outlaw Blues." They released the song (for the price of your email address) last week, and it has just continued to grow on me since then. Totally hauntingly beautiful.

Morning Benders - Outlaw Blues (Bob Dylan Cover) (YSI) (filesavr)

First Aid Kit Tackles Fever Ray
I'll admit it, I haven't listened to First Aid Kit as much as I should. I hear their name mentioned all the time in bands-to-watch discussions, and I have yet to really sit down with their tunes. But this track caught my eye, since I'm obsessed with Fever Ray's self-titled debut album (which made our best of 2009 list last year). It's a great cover, and will get me to finally spin First Aid Kit's album pronto.

First Aid Kit - When I Grow Up (Fever Ray Cover) (YSI) (filesavr)

Oh man, seems like good covers are dropping left and right these days, through various projects, compilations, cover albums, and websites. Here's a quick sampling of some of the best of the best:<br /> <br /> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitxA63QiNpwXaE2zInTLl63fYlpI2FtE8ymq0iWZWlkGOjcIYF0o0_CHjsp49PSOq6-_94MKSvu621sQustZeMJUh2Q_317G9lgxmGM_eOf7pOlkAg1DgJDJcrR0xrA45HmpRb7hmv7Uo/s1600/TSREundercovers.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitxA63QiNpwXaE2zInTLl63fYlpI2FtE8ymq0iWZWlkGOjcIYF0o0_CHjsp49PSOq6-_94MKSvu621sQustZeMJUh2Q_317G9lgxmGM_eOf7pOlkAg1DgJDJcrR0xrA45HmpRb7hmv7Uo/s320/TSREundercovers.JPG" width="320" /></a><b>Warpaint Takes on Bowie</b><br /> Warpaint, one of my favorite live bands of the past year, is getting set to release their debut album, <i>The Fool, </i>in late October. In the meantime, they're keeping us plied with good tunes, via a single release and this here cover. They cover David Bowie's "Ashes To Ashes," from <i>Scary Monsters (and Super Creeps). </i>It's beautifully done and psychedelically minded, like almost everything Warpaint does.<br /> <br /> <b>Warpaint - Ashes to Ashes (David Bowie Cover)</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/WTNLWUhzQ1AzeUpFQlE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/ZmMjyaOS" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /> <br /> <b>Morning Benders Cover Bob Dylan</b><br /> Another of my favorite acts of 2010 have gotten in on the cover game, taking on Bob Dylan's "Outlaw Blues." They released the song (for the price of your email address) last week, and it has just continued to grow on me since then. Totally hauntingly beautiful.<br /> <br /> <b>Morning Benders - Outlaw Blues (Bob Dylan Cover)</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/WTNLWUhzNDI5NVZFQlE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/wzy4OqoG" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /> <br /> <b>First Aid Kit Tackles Fever Ray</b><br /> I'll admit it, I haven't listened to First Aid Kit as much as I should. I hear their name mentioned all the time in bands-to-watch discussions, and I have yet to really sit down with their tunes. But this track caught my eye, since I'm obsessed with Fever Ray's self-titled debut album (which made our <a href="http://www.thestureidexperiment.com/2009/12/tsre-year-end-our-favorite-albums-of.html">best of 2009 list</a> last year). It's a great cover, and will get me to finally spin First Aid Kit's album pronto.<br /> <br /> <b>First Aid Kit - When I Grow Up (Fever Ray Cover)</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/WTNLWUhoSU9rYUEwTVE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/iqU83WVN" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)

New Computer, Old Tunes

I just got a new computer, which is super exciting. Perhaps the most exciting part about getting a new computer is that for the first time in almost 6 years, all of my music will fit onto my harddrive, letting my tunes coexist peacefully inside the same metal box. It's a new treat to be able to access songs new and old in the same location.

In honor of the fact that I have a lot more old jams at my fingertips, here are some blasts from le past to rock your speakers. Turn them up and get to dancing.

TV On The Radio - Satellite (YSI) (filesavr)

Lauryn Hill - Doo Wop (That Thing) (YSI) (filesavr)

Lil Wayne - Walk It Out (YSI) (filesavr)

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL9IjhyphenhyphenhwCd3LspiSJvzDwbmhEbDVDzBBNtp6PD89cJutCxoCENht1lSlek4S-QyxaEJAQaDWx3HOhSSZy-giOH3a3rukx3Ifn-fznHwTOk-f01KDlgaPfk0tUXdFmOByj6xd9fEI0lP4/s1600/Old+School+FridayTSRE.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL9IjhyphenhyphenhwCd3LspiSJvzDwbmhEbDVDzBBNtp6PD89cJutCxoCENht1lSlek4S-QyxaEJAQaDWx3HOhSSZy-giOH3a3rukx3Ifn-fznHwTOk-f01KDlgaPfk0tUXdFmOByj6xd9fEI0lP4/s1600/Old+School+FridayTSRE.gif" /></a>I just got a new computer, which is super exciting. Perhaps the most exciting part about getting a new computer is that for the first time in almost 6 years, all of my music will fit onto my harddrive, letting my tunes coexist peacefully inside the same metal box. It's a new treat to be able to access songs new and old in the same location.<br /> <br /> In honor of the fact that I have a lot more old jams at my fingertips, here are some blasts from le past to rock your speakers. Turn them up and get to dancing.<br /> <br /> <b>TV On The Radio - Satellite</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/WTNJblFIT2JsMHp2Wmc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/FBkNCTJz" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /> <br /> <b>Lauryn Hill - Doo Wop (That Thing)</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/WTNJblFPZDVtNEt4dnc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/rKsj8RjU" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /> <br /> <b>Lil Wayne - Walk It Out </b>(<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/WTNJblFNcklBNkh2Wmc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/uUQDL5jv" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)

Another Hood Internet Gem

Just a quick one today. I was listening to music on random yesterday and heard this Hood Internet gem from their album Hood Internet VS Tobacco & Aesop Rock. Usually I can only take Tobacco's music in small doses, but on Dark Pink Goo, the crunchy synths and forlorn howls really work perfectly with Aesop Rock's voice. Good stuff, glad I stumbled upon it.

The Hood Internet - Dark Pink Goo (Hood Internet Vs Tobacco & Aesop Rock) (YSI)

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYHjv5tWFn5LEFw5FRVpcLNFOHMgmuoKeKvNhYPyDFxF1XyVhZt3JJJT6U_ke5DcYzlKqVHJTPahw9fcDcvZd-32_bY7W4hcCK8oMknkJ5rvcoevH-M68SDR3Uus9sqKhkEMWN8WfD9CAV/s1600/TSRE+GOO.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5524555159372927586" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYHjv5tWFn5LEFw5FRVpcLNFOHMgmuoKeKvNhYPyDFxF1XyVhZt3JJJT6U_ke5DcYzlKqVHJTPahw9fcDcvZd-32_bY7W4hcCK8oMknkJ5rvcoevH-M68SDR3Uus9sqKhkEMWN8WfD9CAV/s320/TSRE+GOO.jpg" style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" /></a>Just a quick one today. I was listening to music on random yesterday and heard this Hood Internet gem from their album <span style="font-style: italic;">Hood Internet VS Tobacco & Aesop Rock</span>. Usually I can only take Tobacco's music in small doses, but on Dark Pink Goo, the crunchy synths and forlorn howls really work perfectly with Aesop Rock's voice. Good stuff, glad I stumbled upon it.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Hood Internet - Dark Pink Goo (Hood Internet Vs Tobacco & Aesop Rock)</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/WTNLYnV6TStsamV4dnc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>)

Odds and Ends: New Sleigh Bells, Vampire Weekend Remix, and Baaba Maal's Very Best

I have these tunes that have been lying around my iTunes for a while, getting lots of virtual spins from me, without ever gracing these pages. So let's change that. Because these songs are legitimately awesome.

The first is the oldest, one that I've been listening to for a few months. It's a remix from The Very Best, a band that we have long loved here at TSRE. Esau Mwamwaya and co. take Baaba Maal's "Miracle" and pump it up a bit, laying some Chichewa vocals over the top in Esau's signature style. It's a big track that builds and breaks nicely - when the drums kick in again, post swell, at the one minute mark, it's basically impossible not to nod your head.

The second track is another remix, this time of Vampire Weekend's "White Sky." The remix is done by Basement Jaxx, remixxers extraordinaires.They take out the guitars, leaving only Ezra Koenig's voice, an interesting look for the usually guitar-focused Vampire Weekend. Replacing those geets are thumping, rubbery beats that pulse nicely, giving the remix a forward-moving energy that the original song lacks. It stretches out for over six minutes, but it's worth it.

Finally, a newly released track from Sleigh Bells, those face-melting kick-assers. This song lives in the red, grinding and crunching through speakers like nobody's business. They've been playing this tune live for quite some time now (I think I've heard it at every Sleigh Bells show I've been to) and it completely shreds. Plus, you can walk around all day just yelling "WASTED ALL DAY KILLING ALL THE CAPULETS" and feeling like a badass. Nothing wrong with that.

Baaba Mal - Miracle (The Very Best Remix) (YSI)

Vampire Weekend - White Sky (Basement Jaxx Remix) (YSI)

Sleigh Bells - Holly (YSI)

I have these tunes that have been lying around my iTunes for a while, getting lots of virtual spins from me, without ever gracing these pages. So let's change that. Because these songs are legitimately awesome.<br /> <br /> The first is the oldest, one that I've been listening to for a few months. It's a remix from The Very Best, a band that we have long loved here at TSRE. Esau Mwamwaya and co. take Baaba Maal's "Miracle" and pump it up a bit, laying some Chichewa vocals over the top in Esau's signature style. It's a big track that builds and breaks nicely - when the drums kick in again, post swell, at the one minute mark, it's basically impossible not to nod your head.<br /> <br /> The second track is another remix, this time of Vampire Weekend's "White Sky." The remix is done by Basement Jaxx, remixxers extraordinaires.They take out the guitars, leaving only Ezra Koenig's voice, an interesting look for the usually guitar-focused Vampire Weekend. Replacing those geets are thumping, rubbery beats that pulse nicely, giving the remix a forward-moving energy that the original song lacks. It stretches out for over six minutes, but it's worth it.<br /> <br /> Finally, a newly released track from Sleigh Bells, those face-melting kick-assers. This song lives in the red, grinding and crunching through speakers like nobody's business. They've been playing this tune live for quite some time now (I think I've heard it at every Sleigh Bells show I've been to) and it completely shreds. Plus, you can walk around all day just yelling "WASTED ALL DAY KILLING ALL THE CAPULETS" and feeling like a badass. Nothing wrong with that.<br /> <br /> <b>Baaba Mal - Miracle (The Very Best Remix)</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/WTNLNWN1dzg1bmcwTVE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>)<br /> <br /> <b>Vampire Weekend - White Sky (Basement Jaxx Remix)</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/WTNLNWN0NmM3bUJjR0E9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>)<br /> <br /> <b>Sleigh Bells - Holly </b>(<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/WTNLNWNqQ0M1aWF4dnc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>)

Fall Music: Anni Rossi - Heavy Meadow

Anni Rossi is back! HOORAY!! Heavy Meadow came out on September 14 and I have been listening to it a lot. Quick impressions: 1. a distinct electronic veneer now (not necessarily a bad thing) 2. Anni Rossi sounds much more confident and mature 3. Viola not quite as featured 4. due to backing band. Despite this slight change in sound, its still great and still sounds like Anni Rossi. The viola is still there, just not quite as stark as before. In fact she uses pizzicato much more than actual playing with the bow than on Rockwell, making the viola sound more like an interesting guitar substitute. Improved production does not obscure her great voice and what I would call mini-melancholy. Overall, Heavy Meadow is a change and while less intimate and ramshackle, the tracks sound great and are really catchy without sacrificing Anni Rossi's style.

Anni Rossi - Crushing Limbs (YSI)

Anni Rossi - Hatchet (YSI)

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFhAEvS9P6kWHMh_nQZ7olc6jbbnLxw-PRvUDbbXYF73HIMddDjg0299Jy-L8X29FvOKr7l0d3jNUHxaqN_mtr0mXZpK7a5Dky1kUoqJMVyfUd3ykv5sJk7NdK6yrdC3jz8d8idLQReBWc/s1600/TSRE+Anni+Rossi.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5522332031320968354" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFhAEvS9P6kWHMh_nQZ7olc6jbbnLxw-PRvUDbbXYF73HIMddDjg0299Jy-L8X29FvOKr7l0d3jNUHxaqN_mtr0mXZpK7a5Dky1kUoqJMVyfUd3ykv5sJk7NdK6yrdC3jz8d8idLQReBWc/s320/TSRE+Anni+Rossi.jpg" style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 182px;" /></a>Anni Rossi is back! HOORAY!! <span style="font-style: italic;">Heavy Meadow</span> came out on September 14 and I have been listening to it a lot. Quick impressions: 1. a distinct electronic veneer now (not necessarily a bad thing) 2. Anni Rossi sounds much more confident and mature 3. Viola not quite as featured 4. due to backing band. Despite this slight change in sound, its still great and still sounds like Anni Rossi. The viola is still there, just not quite as stark as before. In fact she uses pizzicato much more than actual playing with the bow than on <span style="font-style: italic;">Rockwell</span>, making the viola sound more like an interesting guitar substitute. Improved production does not obscure her great voice and what I would call mini-melancholy. Overall, <span style="font-style: italic;">Heavy Meadow</span> is a change and while less intimate and ramshackle, the tracks sound great and are really catchy without sacrificing Anni Rossi's style.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Anni Rossi - Crushing Limbs</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/WTNKM25BUzhsMHcwTVE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Anni Rossi - Hatchet</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/WTNKM25Dd0lkMnZ2Wmc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>)

Facebook Music

So, as you all know, The Social Network drops today at theaters around the country. Given this event, I thought I'd write today about Facebook. Do I like it? Do I hate it? What does its prominence say about our time, about our generation, about humanity?

There are all sorts of deep approaches one can take to discussing Facebook, and I'm sure you'll find many of these expounded upon in detail these days. But not here. I just want to briefly touch on one aspect of Facebook I find positive:

It's good for sharing. And it's good for sharing music.

In earlier times, people would discover music by listening to the radio, or by gathering around a turntable or CD player with friends and listening to the latest record. But today, we don't really do that anymore. While the radio spins top 40 hits that all sound the same, we have to look elsewhere for new music. Blogs are one source. Facebook is another.

The other day, I was randomly checking my News Feed, when I saw that someone had posted a youTube clip of some singer named Lhasa De Sela. The poster was a girl that I'd known briefly, and our friendship, in real life, had long ago ceased to exist. In fact, we'd never actually been friends. But of course, friendship is different on Facebook, and some database somewhere has us designated as friends. Regardless, for whatever reason I clicked on the link, and was blown away by the singer, whom I'd never heard before.

So Facebook, I must say, can do good. In case you've never heard of Lhasa, check her out. I was sad to learn that she'd passed away this past January, but she certainly left us with some beautiful songs.

Lhasa de Sela - Fool's Gold (YSI)
Lhasa de Sela - Is Anything Wrong? (YSI)

<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=STz46B3rJo8" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" target="_blank"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5522915129221910962" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkVHrbzBReKcigKLxfvvFKOkfuNJ_MWCd7NeC-lBU79tll1gKQMfx8KNBFKPIvAMNKLWTbMRnXnqlKyLYfiYrr6zAfNH5NEJALcAM6-LaFv6BU8ii-gI0Yp2DuuZFe64RMGGUgkYv-Xyk/s320/Picture+1.jpg" style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 305px; height: 143px;" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style=";font-family:arial;font-size:small;" ><span style="font-size:85%;">So, as you all know, <i>The Social Network</i> drops today at theaters around the country. Given this event, I thought I'd write today about Facebook. Do I like it? Do I hate it? What does its prominence say about our time, about our generation, about humanity? </span><div><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size:85%;">There are all sorts of deep approaches one can take to discussing Facebook, and I'm sure you'll find many of these expounded upon in detail these days. But not here. I just want to briefly touch on one aspect of Facebook I find positive:</span></div><div><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size:85%;">It's good for sharing. And it's good for sharing music. </span></div><div><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size:85%;">In earlier times, people would discover music by listening to the radio, or by gathering around a turntable or CD player with friends and listening to the latest record. But today, we don't really do that anymore. While the radio spins top 40 hits that all sound the same, we have to look elsewhere for new music. Blogs are one source. Facebook is another. </span></div><div><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size:85%;">The other day, I was randomly checking my News Feed, when I saw that someone had posted a youTube clip of some singer named Lhasa De Sela. The poster was a girl that I'd known briefly, and our friendship, in real life, had long ago ceased to exist. In fact, we'd never <i>actually</i> been friends. But of course, friendship is different on Facebook, and some database somewhere has us designated as friends. Regardless, for whatever reason I clicked on the link, and was blown away by the singer, whom I'd never heard before. </span></div><div><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size:85%;">So Facebook, I must say, can do good. In case you've never heard of Lhasa, check her out. I was sad to learn that she'd passed away this past January, but she certainly left us with some beautiful songs.<br /><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:85%;" >Lhasa de Sela - Fool's Gold </span><span style="font-size:85%;">(<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/WTNMTGs5NEh0TW52Wmc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>)<br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:85%;" >Lhasa de Sela - Is Anything Wrong? </span><span style="font-size:85%;">(<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/WTNMTGs5NEg4NVZFQlE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>)</span><br /></div></span>

Fall Music: Black Milk - Album of the Year

I've been enjoying the recent album by Guilty Simpson, but otherwise I have been having some trouble finding good new hip hop. Luckily Black Milk's third album, Album of the Year, is here (Sept 14). Its not that far of a departure from Tronic, which is a good thing. Snares and drums usually take the lead and the album as a whole feels more concertedly in your face than previously. That said, Black Milk's beats have some definite new jazz influences and they remain eclectic and complex as ever. You have to respect the frequent, yet subtle use of hand claps. Black Milk is continuing to work on his game, while sticking with what works in crafting interesting and also extremely rewarding tracks.

Black Milk - Round of Applause (YSI)

Black Milk - Black and Brown (Feat. Danny Brown) (YSI)

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPCsTsylmJkPJIRVNne5r2iBdTz9Bh64WQpmIKBayeLwBxIcDJFM3k0mYMKpzyoHvYDLvC1JSXspMCFcyyWH8i5gOU_5dS6U8MYFbgByvMiO1wbbd3lG56wY5FmkGVrVcQZXW3c6s6gCnU/s1600/TSRE+Black+Milk.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5522328252420495602" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPCsTsylmJkPJIRVNne5r2iBdTz9Bh64WQpmIKBayeLwBxIcDJFM3k0mYMKpzyoHvYDLvC1JSXspMCFcyyWH8i5gOU_5dS6U8MYFbgByvMiO1wbbd3lG56wY5FmkGVrVcQZXW3c6s6gCnU/s320/TSRE+Black+Milk.jpg" style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" /></a>I've been enjoying the recent album by Guilty Simpson, but otherwise I have been having some trouble finding good new hip hop. Luckily Black Milk's third album, <span style="font-style: italic;">Album of the Year</span>, is here (Sept 14). Its not that far of a departure from <span style="font-style: italic;">Tronic</span>, which is a good thing. Snares and drums usually take the lead and the album as a whole feels more concertedly in your face than previously. That said, Black Milk's beats have some definite new jazz influences and they remain eclectic and complex as ever. You have to respect the frequent, yet subtle use of hand claps. Black Milk is continuing to work on his game, while sticking with what works in crafting interesting and also extremely rewarding tracks.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Black Milk - Round of Applause </span>(<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/WTNKM25QcGs5bEN4dnc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Black Milk - Black and Brown (Feat. Danny Brown)</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/WTNKM25DZ2c1UjQwTVE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>)

Three From Nicki Minaj

Nicki Minaj is an absolute beast, let's be clear on that. I think she may be the only female voice in rap worth listening to right now, with the exception of Lady Sovereign. Missy, Eve, Lauryn, and the rest have all gone M.I.A. and there just aren't that many strong female voices out there at the moment. It's a bummer.

Another female voice out there - in the non rap game - that is killing it right now is La Roux. We've gone on and on about how great she is (and how well she works for mash-ups) but more mashes and remixes keep surfacing.

Well this one is massive. Colin Munroe, who we've sung the praises of before, dropped this jam a couple weeks ago and I can't get enough of it. He chops up La Roux's "Bulletproof" and throws it underneath Nicki Minaj's "Monster" verse. The result is epic and awesome.

For a bonus, here's Trey Songz' "Bottoms Up," which sports a schizophrenic but awesome verse from Ms. Minaj, along with the original "Monster" track, which features verses from Kanye, Jay-Z, and Rick Ross, along with vocals from Bon Iver. Sweet.

Colin Munroe - Bulletproof Monster (La Roux & Nicki Minaj Revox) (YSI)

Trey Songz - Bottoms Up (f. Nicki Minaj) (YSI)

Kanye West - Monster (f. Nicki Minaj, Jay-Z, Rick Ross & Bon Iver) (YSI)

Nicki Minaj is an absolute beast, let's be clear on that. I think she may be the only female voice in rap worth listening to right now, with the exception of Lady Sovereign. Missy, Eve, Lauryn, and the rest have all gone M.I.A. and there just aren't that many strong female voices out there at the moment. It's a bummer.<br /> <br /> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS68yCeWRqERyKT5qDfnpRCWXVFinUQVbWJLUATNCPSchl7nTmcCz4fCYmR3rw86k9NFxs9Rj8xty5kJaP24uG4Y8LM4T_RrPJw5YNqlaVUnoGD1p1ipjVcMj2tkTQd3T4NZJ0sDqhX7Q/s1600/NickiTSRE.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS68yCeWRqERyKT5qDfnpRCWXVFinUQVbWJLUATNCPSchl7nTmcCz4fCYmR3rw86k9NFxs9Rj8xty5kJaP24uG4Y8LM4T_RrPJw5YNqlaVUnoGD1p1ipjVcMj2tkTQd3T4NZJ0sDqhX7Q/s320/NickiTSRE.JPG" width="213" /></a>Another female voice out there - in the non rap game - that is killing it right now is La Roux. We've gone on and on about how great she is (and how well she works for mash-ups) but more mashes and remixes keep surfacing.<br /> <br /> Well this one is massive. Colin Munroe, who we've sung the praises of before, dropped this jam a couple weeks ago and I can't get enough of it. He chops up La Roux's "Bulletproof" and throws it underneath Nicki Minaj's "Monster" verse. The result is epic and awesome.<br /> <br /> For a bonus, here's Trey Songz' "Bottoms Up," which sports a schizophrenic but awesome verse from Ms. Minaj, along with the original "Monster" track, which features verses from Kanye, Jay-Z, and Rick Ross, along with vocals from Bon Iver. Sweet.<br /> <br /> <b>Colin Munroe - Bulletproof Monster (La Roux & Nicki Minaj Revox)</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/WTNKM25NQ1BRWUkwTVE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>)<br /> <br /> <b>Trey Songz - Bottoms Up (f. Nicki Minaj)</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/WTNLWmdnTXZwcFUwTVE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>)<br /> <br /> <b>Kanye West - Monster (f. Nicki Minaj, Jay-Z, Rick Ross & Bon Iver)</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/WTNLWmdxV3JRR2V4dnc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>)

Looking Back At Mother's Milk

Remember when you loved the album Californication by the Red Hot Chili Peppers. It was so melodic, catchy, and popular. Being a fan, I started looking for the older RHCP stuff and found Mother's Milk. WOW, that was a mind opening experience. There is such a difference between the old rough around the edges, rocking out Peppers and the mainstream hit machines they became. That was my first experience realizing that music curiosity is awesome and rewarding to boot.

Red Hot Chili Peppers - Californication (YSI)

Red Hot Chili Peppers - Higher Ground (YSI)

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7ukLNbXlB4LWufzGMN34ty0yWTT6D3livACGRUK89P-JlLtQukrOB53zD7JY2LftGK5XZkprqYVwvtzhFyEcDp579-CNhzCWXMyV6hB_6gwyT2ppPTJP25FVVjjgwV3sMyY6rRsJz0z35/s1600/TSRE+Mothers+Milk.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5521029605537438242" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7ukLNbXlB4LWufzGMN34ty0yWTT6D3livACGRUK89P-JlLtQukrOB53zD7JY2LftGK5XZkprqYVwvtzhFyEcDp579-CNhzCWXMyV6hB_6gwyT2ppPTJP25FVVjjgwV3sMyY6rRsJz0z35/s320/TSRE+Mothers+Milk.jpg" style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 205px;" /></a>Remember when you loved the album <span style="font-style: italic;">Californication</span> by the Red Hot Chili Peppers. It was so melodic, catchy, and popular. Being a fan, I started looking for the older RHCP stuff and found <span style="font-style: italic;">Mother's Milk</span>. WOW, that was a mind opening experience. There is such a difference between the old rough around the edges, rocking out Peppers and the mainstream hit machines they became. That was my first experience realizing that music curiosity is awesome and rewarding to boot.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Red Hot Chili Peppers - Californication</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/WTNMS3d1dzh5Ukh2Wmc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Red Hot Chili Peppers - Higher Ground</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/WTNMS3d0NmNwM2xFQlE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>)

Revaluating Cosmogramma

I am here to right a wrong that TSRE has committed. We did not adequately hype Flying Lotus' Cosmogramma when it came out earlier this year and for that I am sorry. While listening to it more recently, especially while driving at night, I now comprehend how expansive Cosmogramma is. Just like its title, the album really is a personal cosmology of musical influences and cosmic belief. Interweaving hip hop and jazz, Flying Lotus transcends the earthly limitations of Los Angeles and reaches for the stars on Cosmogramma. Every bounce, every beat, every horn is free of gravity and allows the tracks to move in unexpectedly fluid ways.

Flying Lotus - Zodiac Shit (YSI)

Flying Lotus - Computer Face/Pure Being (YSI)

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2JsxMkJv3P2qlXqoLK3fPmQQwKFL8VZ96xgLyFfUZX48WF22aX3QrJmZ4g_gFyl17yT-Z1rdoplZQReL9jBzmMj6B4hBlpDOSmRsJX0up11UJ1z4TkziL2iINsyCtHTcM-vIVIeRAs7jN/s1600/TSRE+Cosmos.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5521025400289416754" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2JsxMkJv3P2qlXqoLK3fPmQQwKFL8VZ96xgLyFfUZX48WF22aX3QrJmZ4g_gFyl17yT-Z1rdoplZQReL9jBzmMj6B4hBlpDOSmRsJX0up11UJ1z4TkziL2iINsyCtHTcM-vIVIeRAs7jN/s320/TSRE+Cosmos.jpg" style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" /></a>I am here to right a wrong that TSRE has committed. We did not adequately hype Flying Lotus' <span style="font-style: italic;">Cosmogramma</span> when it came out earlier this year and for that I am sorry. While listening to it more recently, especially while driving at night, I now comprehend how expansive <span style="font-style: italic;">Cosmogramma</span> is. Just like its title, the album really is a personal cosmology of musical influences and cosmic belief. Interweaving hip hop and jazz, Flying Lotus transcends the earthly limitations of <span style="font-style: italic;">Los Angeles</span> and reaches for the stars on <span style="font-style: italic;">Cosmogramma</span>. Every bounce, every beat, every horn is free of gravity and allows the tracks to move in unexpectedly fluid ways.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Flying Lotus - Zodiac Shit</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/WTNMS3drdGo4aVB2Wmc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Flying Lotus - Computer Face/Pure Being</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/WTNMS3drdGpQb0pjR0E9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>)