It's Memorial Day! Go Grill Something!

Holiday! Three Day Weekend! It's Memorial Day, Children, And That's Good News!

Memorial Day, to me, is a sign that summer is here. It's a holiday that is meant to be spent with good friends, with not too much on the schedule and as much meat as you can pile on the grill. What do you think, TSRE Obama?

AGREED. Glad we're all on the same page here. I don't want to take up too much of your time, so let's get on with it. Here are some tunes you should throw on the old jukebox at your BBQ today!

Vampire Weekend - Holiday (YSI) (filesavr)

Sleigh Bells - Treats (YSI) (filesavr)

She & Him - In The Sun (YSI)

Holiday! Three Day Weekend! It's Memorial Day, Children, And That's Good News!<br /> <br /> Memorial Day, to me, is a sign that summer is here. It's a holiday that is meant to be spent with good friends, with not too much on the schedule and as much meat as you can pile on the grill. What do you think, TSRE Obama?<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgZ3-G5qHPjn3tp8SoPxZaUcaZFUVXp_GBdcC1VM4f6XP7rqh19xYKYQ_f99wGx5K0bBDsAwUE1uBHooD7Cq31vBA-b7bKTLMncDW5THJ5o-ATGxFXwsOKiLGzDmYPowL1-2vbParTJeY/s1600/grilling+obamaTSRE.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgZ3-G5qHPjn3tp8SoPxZaUcaZFUVXp_GBdcC1VM4f6XP7rqh19xYKYQ_f99wGx5K0bBDsAwUE1uBHooD7Cq31vBA-b7bKTLMncDW5THJ5o-ATGxFXwsOKiLGzDmYPowL1-2vbParTJeY/s320/grilling+obamaTSRE.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">AGREED. Glad we're all on the same page here. I don't want to take up too much of your time, so let's get on with it. Here are some tunes you should throw on the old jukebox at your BBQ today!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Vampire Weekend - Holiday</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/dXFVa0ZTd0lvQUt4dnc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/tjC5YXuf" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Sleigh Bells - Treats</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/dXFVa0ZTd0lUWUJjR0E9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/lKpE1KxA" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>She & Him - In The Sun</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/dXFVa0ZTd0kwMEUwTVE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>)</div>

Jones + Fatboy + Byrne = Awesome

I am very jealous of Ben's going to the Sharon Jones show at the House of Blues this past Thursday. Amazingly there exists an album all about Imelda Marcos and even more amazingly it was created by Fatboy Slim and David Byrne. One track off Here Lies Love features Sharon Jones and it is funky with an energetic doo-wop beat that drives the whole song. Ok, thats enough talk go outside.

David Byrne and Fatboy Slim - Dancing Together (Feat. Sharon Jones) (YSI) (filesavr)

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPKniApZk-OfW4WDs022qyezID6ioWbK5RqG80bh9-huigPxZE9DUYdxznIfHdW5VakooUD9FAnOKb-R_SS0e5NmJLL471-a3aVPlEs9tQThol7GR8IP6iECw0VOiXdPoj5hCcK2oySiE-/s1600/TSRE+Marcos.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5475757579889896498" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPKniApZk-OfW4WDs022qyezID6ioWbK5RqG80bh9-huigPxZE9DUYdxznIfHdW5VakooUD9FAnOKb-R_SS0e5NmJLL471-a3aVPlEs9tQThol7GR8IP6iECw0VOiXdPoj5hCcK2oySiE-/s320/TSRE+Marcos.jpg" style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 313px; height: 320px;" /></a>I am very jealous of Ben's going to the Sharon Jones show at the House of Blues this past Thursday. Amazingly there exists an album all about Imelda Marcos and even more amazingly it was created by Fatboy Slim and David Byrne. One track off <span style="font-style: italic;">Here Lies Love</span> features Sharon Jones and it is funky with an energetic doo-wop beat that drives the whole song. Ok, thats enough talk go outside.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">David Byrne and Fatboy Slim - Dancing Together (Feat. Sharon Jones)</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/dXFVY05ucVhubHhjR0E9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/E8gkyNAr" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)

Rap and Treat

Sleigh Bells named their debut album Treats so perfectly. It is literally ear candy. Blistering pace and crunchy beats, but you probably already know that. The only way to make this nugget of an album better is to throw some rhymes over those beats. Speak! has done just that with Infinity Guitars. Candy for breakfast? Yes please.

Sleigh Bells feat. Speak! - Infinity Rap Bars (Infinity Guitars RMX) (YSI) (filesavr)

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAaiME2O48yWZgs9GEIMYCYH2_YtDPYosvkdjzk23NWSFT9ValuJo9g24xPN5zzFh3XhzydA-xBHdAN_4Phr5M1kX4rLjCifQh5Plaf_KPuMhVKLqgkfcb9NWP9ZtSE6zNd37DSr9tPaEH/s1600/TSRE+Treats.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5475754267147630658" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAaiME2O48yWZgs9GEIMYCYH2_YtDPYosvkdjzk23NWSFT9ValuJo9g24xPN5zzFh3XhzydA-xBHdAN_4Phr5M1kX4rLjCifQh5Plaf_KPuMhVKLqgkfcb9NWP9ZtSE6zNd37DSr9tPaEH/s320/TSRE+Treats.jpg" style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" /></a>Sleigh Bells named their debut album Treats so perfectly. It is literally ear candy. Blistering pace and crunchy beats, but you probably already know that. The only way to make this nugget of an album better is to throw some rhymes over those beats. Speak! has done just that with Infinity Guitars. Candy for breakfast? Yes please.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Sleigh Bells feat. Speak! - Infinity Rap Bars (Infinity Guitars RMX)</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/dXFVY05pd0lsMHl4dnc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/mWMyOkgn" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)

Heaven Help Us All

You know those moments when a single song just seems to grab your ears and demand that you keep playing it non-stop for a week or more? It may be that the song fits your mood to a tee, or that you first heard it in the midst of an epic night with your closest friends and just want to relive that moment over and over while the memory is still fresh. Or perhaps it’s a song that you’ve heard before and never really noticed until suddenly, for no obvious reason, the song causes you to take note. And then take note again.

When these moments come, you may hesitate to play the song for the fifteenth time--too much of a good thing and all that. But, my friend, resistance is futile. You might as well ride out this wave while it’s here—no need to bail out. Sure, after a week or two you may stop listening to the song and stay away for months, or years, but I guarantee you that, at some point in the future, the song will bring you pleasure again.

I’m solidly in the midst of one such moment right now. The culprit: “Heaven Help Us All” by Stevie Wonder. From its majestic opening, the song builds, egged on by Stevie’s voice, to a full gospel outburst in the chorus. The lyrics are potently simple, presenting opposing images, from “the black man who struggles one more day” to “the white man who turns his back away,” and then unifying these images through insistent repetition of the title phrase, “heaven help us all!” Indeed, the song achieves a sort of transcendence as the song's prayer is so clearly answered by the unrestrained jubilance of the music.

And so I wonder, why has this song grabbed me so? Perhaps because its genuine hope and joy provide an antidote to the constant news of oil spills, bomb plots, and general political idiocy. This mean old world we're living in can indeed be depressing, as the bad news grinds on you day after day. And so I thank heaven for Stevie Wonder and Sam Cooke; for the Beatles and for Biggie; for Beethoven, Bach, and Bartok; James Taylor and Justin Timberlake, Daft Punk and Dylan, and on and on, and on. For music.

Heaven help the roses, if the bombs begin to fall
Heaven help us all

Stevie Wonder – Heaven Help Us All (YSI) (filesavr)

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijNVrZS8syf-1XbV2HRMnoOSZ3Z-ecuVeD-2fV_C2pT3cHyKyyVz6maLLByr4uGAynpim6p4wuxo40Yor9sSnRvjU8K_e2jLxF-6Tminv_2NJRVajQVwJKffHekjZSFdQKvjZrtunz1v4/s1600/stevie-wonder-13.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5476027523224406162" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijNVrZS8syf-1XbV2HRMnoOSZ3Z-ecuVeD-2fV_C2pT3cHyKyyVz6maLLByr4uGAynpim6p4wuxo40Yor9sSnRvjU8K_e2jLxF-6Tminv_2NJRVajQVwJKffHekjZSFdQKvjZrtunz1v4/s320/stevie-wonder-13.jpg" style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 254px; height: 172px;" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">You know those moments when a single song just seems to grab your ears and demand that you keep playing it non-stop for a week or more? It may be that the song fits your mood to a tee, or that you first heard it in the midst of an epic night with your closest friends and just want to relive that moment over and over while the memory is still fresh. Or perhaps it’s a song that you’ve heard before and never really noticed until suddenly, for no obvious reason, the song causes you to take note. And then take note again.<br /><br />When these moments come, you may hesitate to play the song for the fifteenth time--too much of a good thing and all that. But, my friend, resistance is futile. You might as well ride out this wave while it’s here—no need to bail out. Sure, after a week or two you may stop listening to the song and stay away for months, or years, but I guarantee you that, at some point in the future, the song will bring you pleasure again.<br /><br />I’m solidly in the midst of one such moment right now. The culprit: “Heaven Help Us All” by Stevie Wonder. From its majestic opening, the song builds, egged on by Stevie’s voice, to a full gospel outburst in the chorus. The lyrics are potently simple, presenting opposing images, from “the black man who struggles one more day” to “the white man who turns his back away,” and then unifying these images through insistent repetition of the title phrase, “heaven help us all!” Indeed, the song achieves a sort of transcendence as the song's prayer is so clearly answered by the unrestrained jubilance of the music.<br /><br />And so I wonder, why has this song grabbed me so? Perhaps because its genuine hope and joy provide an antidote to the constant news of oil spills, bomb plots, and general political idiocy. This mean old world we're living in can indeed be depressing, as the bad news grinds on you day after day. And so I thank heaven for Stevie Wonder and Sam Cooke; for the Beatles and for Biggie; for Beethoven, Bach, and Bartok; James Taylor and Justin Timberlake, Daft Punk and Dylan, and on and on, and on. For music.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Heaven help the roses, if the bombs begin to fall</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Heaven help us all</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Stevie Wonder – Heaven Help Us All</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/dXFVc2ZBQ3R0TWxjR0E9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/RlTHD0kp" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)</span>

Ready To Explode

We went to school with a one of the guys who plays in the band The Powder Kegs – in fact, I spent many a great evening sitting in the tavern on campus listening to lead singer Ryan Deiringer play Powder Kegs songs on piano. So you can imagine my delight when I heard that The Powder Kegs were turning some ears around the blogosphere.

The Kegs have gone through a couple metamorphoses since those days – back then they were a bluegrass band, now they’re a poppier trio. But one thing has remained constant throughout the bands’ iterations: They write great songs.

The latest from The Powder Kegs camp is “La Mariposa,” an addictively catchy track that lets Ryan’s voice sing sweet Spanglish and memorable melodies. The instrumentation on the track is fairly simple – guitar, shaker, drums – until a fun little xylophone run around the two minute mark and a snazzy brass interlude shortly thereafter thanks to Mr. Dylan Hume. All in all, it’s just a really sweet track that shows me (and hopefully the rest of the world) that the Powder Kegs are the real deal, whatever form they take.

The Powder Kegs – La Mariposa (YSI) (filesavr)

We went to school with a one of the guys who plays in the band The Powder Kegs – in fact, I spent many a great evening sitting in the tavern on campus listening to lead singer Ryan Deiringer play Powder Kegs songs on piano. So you can imagine my delight when I heard that The Powder Kegs were turning some ears around the blogosphere.<br /> <br /> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip9iuGiHsNeid1rTVFxbBt_L3WqnO-TkxEZaTc_sd4r2df6XU3DxVKn0KWFOcPeFS7_V4QdVyNuXQadyLBIqZB5Y4DYbBI5DnP-Q39_csIfkFLofp5dmsM-Xuv3lyIW4ZuEa7h0p_kmrY/s1600/powderkegTSRE.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/AVvXsEip9iuGiHsNeid1rTVFxbBt_L3WqnO-TkxEZaTc_sd4r2df6XU3DxVKn0KWFOcPeFS7_V4QdVyNuXQadyLBIqZB5Y4DYbBI5DnP-Q39_csIfkFLofp5dmsM-Xuv3lyIW4ZuEa7h0p_kmrY/s320/powderkegTSRE.JPG" /></a>The Kegs have gone through a couple metamorphoses since those days – back then they were a bluegrass band, now they’re a poppier trio. But one thing has remained constant throughout the bands’ iterations: They write great songs.<br /> <br /> The latest from The Powder Kegs camp is “La Mariposa,” an addictively catchy track that lets Ryan’s voice sing sweet Spanglish and memorable melodies. The instrumentation on the track is fairly simple – guitar, shaker, drums – until a fun little xylophone run around the two minute mark and a snazzy brass interlude shortly thereafter thanks to Mr. Dylan Hume. All in all, it’s just a really sweet track that shows me (and hopefully the rest of the world) that the Powder Kegs are the real deal, whatever form they take.<br /> <br /> <b>The Powder Kegs – La Mariposa</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/dXFXcXlrNXZtNEt4dnc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/xlvFOgwP" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)

Black Keys Rock My Eye Sockets

Usually I don’t get too into music videos. I’m not that huge on them – for better or for worse my attention usually drifts and I realize I’m just listening to the song and not paying attention to the video at all. So I guess I don’t really see the point. Especially for those lame band-on-stage videos. Seriously, dumb.

But there seems to be a mini-revolution going on, dating back to a year or two ago and really heating up around now. Bands are starting to be really clever with their videos. In the YouTube and internet video age, bands are starting to realize that low-budget doesn’t have to mean low quality, and they are putting some really creative stuff together. Sure, there are the high profile Gagas and OK Gos that are making creative videos, but there are other realy fun vids being made. Check out Harlem Shakes’ homage to fan-created YouTube videos for an example. Subtle, but kinda brilliant.

The most recent video to bring a smile to my face is the video for The Black Keys’ “Tighten Up.” It’s cute, it’s funny, and it’s awesome. There are funny lines, cute kids, a good looking woman, a fight, and little kids flipping the bird. The best part? The look on Dan Auerbach’s face after his kid gives the finger. Priceless. Also, these are actually Auerbach and Carney’s kids, which makes the video even more fun to watch.

While we’re on the topic, let me go on record as being 100 behind the new Black Keys record, Brothers. It’s fantastic. I, like many people, doubted whether there was room for more Black Keys in my life. Don’t get me wrong, I love their earlier work. It’s just all very similar. With two piece bands (Black Keys, White Stripes, Japandroids, etc) I think there is an added challenge to innovation. There are only so many different looks you can come up with before it all sounds like old stuff. Well the Black Keys have proven us all wrong again and put together a fantastic set of jams that really expands on their previous releases and styles. Go get it, for reals.

The Black Keys – Tighten Up (YSI) (filesavr)

The Black Keys – Her Eyes Are A Blue Million Miles (Captain Beefheart Cover) (YSI) (filesavr)

The Black Keys f. Nicole Wray & N.O.E. – Done Did It (YSI) (filesavr)

Usually I don’t get too into music videos. I’m not that huge on them – for better or for worse my attention usually drifts and I realize I’m just listening to the song and not paying attention to the video at all. So I guess I don’t really see the point. Especially for those lame band-on-stage videos. Seriously, dumb.<br /> <div class="MsoNormal"><br /> </div><div class="MsoNormal">But there seems to be a mini-revolution going on, dating back to a year or two ago and really heating up around now. Bands are starting to be really clever with their videos. In the YouTube and internet video age, bands are starting to realize that low-budget doesn’t have to mean low quality, and they are putting some really creative stuff together. Sure, there are the high profile Gagas and OK Gos that are making creative videos, but there are other realy fun vids being made. Check out Harlem Shakes’ homage to fan-created YouTube videos for an example. Subtle, but kinda brilliant.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /> </div><div class="MsoNormal">The most recent video to bring a smile to my face is the video for The Black Keys’ “Tighten Up.” It’s cute, it’s funny, and it’s awesome. There are funny lines, cute kids, a good looking woman, a fight, and little kids flipping the bird. The best part? The look on Dan Auerbach’s face after his kid gives the finger. Priceless. Also, these are actually Auerbach and Carney’s kids, which makes the video even more fun to watch.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /> </div><div class="MsoNormal"><o:p><object height="340" width="560"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/mpaPBCBjSVc&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/mpaPBCBjSVc&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="560" height="340"></embed></object><br /> </o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /> </div><div class="MsoNormal">While we’re on the topic, let me go on record as being 100 behind the new Black Keys record, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Brothers</i>. It’s fantastic. I, like many people, doubted whether there was room for more Black Keys in my life. Don’t get me wrong, I love their earlier work. It’s just all very similar. With two piece bands (Black Keys, White Stripes, Japandroids, etc) I think there is an added challenge to innovation. There are only so many different looks you can come up with before it all sounds like old stuff. Well the Black Keys have proven us all wrong again and put together a fantastic set of jams that really expands on their previous releases and styles. Go get it, for reals.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><br /> </b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">The Black Keys – Tighten Up </b>(<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/dXFYaUNOR0ZqV0R2Wmc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/Dr4lqrRx" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><br /> </b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">The Black Keys – Her Eyes Are A Blue Million Miles (Captain Beefheart Cover) </b>(<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/dXFYaUNEVEh0Nit4dnc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/02hereyesareabluemil" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><br /> </b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">The Black Keys f. Nicole Wray & N.O.E. – Done Did It </b>(<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/dXFYaUNEVEhveFB2Wmc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/gU0uQqle" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<o:p></o:p></div>

A Rolling Stones Reevaluation

I have to admit that we here at TSRE have not always been the most ardent fans of The Rolling Stones. I have slowly been getting more into their brash, swaggery style of rock, but what really caught my ear recently was the remastered release of the classic Exile on Main St.. With few quality exceptions, like the Black Keys, there are few places nowadays to hear the unbridled blues rock featured on Exile on Main St.. From front to back this album is a mood and a mindset for unbridled listening. Perhaps Ben can chime in on this album front a more informed and educated perspective, but for me it really has provided me a breath of rock fresh air, even though its over 30 years old. Count me a convert.

The Rolling Stones - Rip This Joint (YSI) (filesavr)

The Rolling Stones - Tumbling Dice (YSI) (filesavr)

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguhuiYTVpa8vrrniZW-dQz0Lyjso_AEmxkSRSCY8HzW9qyxa0TiyfOyLBwQOeEZY6CHqPEgfupNxN7TADoC0_84GlsPgjqxBD8kTZN7SSdxeCaBjH7t24Xc-x-UOTAUQAiHcf90Qp6yCc_/s1600/TSRE+Main+Street.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5474964414148311186" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguhuiYTVpa8vrrniZW-dQz0Lyjso_AEmxkSRSCY8HzW9qyxa0TiyfOyLBwQOeEZY6CHqPEgfupNxN7TADoC0_84GlsPgjqxBD8kTZN7SSdxeCaBjH7t24Xc-x-UOTAUQAiHcf90Qp6yCc_/s320/TSRE+Main+Street.jpg" style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" /></a>I have to admit that we here at TSRE have not always been the most ardent fans of The Rolling Stones. I have slowly been getting more into their brash, swaggery style of rock, but what really caught my ear recently was the remastered release of the classic <span style="font-style: italic;">Exile on Main St.</span>. With few quality exceptions, like the Black Keys, there are few places nowadays to hear the unbridled blues rock featured on <span style="font-style: italic;">Exile on Main St.</span>. From front to back this album is a mood and a mindset for unbridled listening. Perhaps Ben can chime in on this album front a more informed and educated perspective, but for me it really has provided me a breath of rock fresh air, even though its over 30 years old. Count me a convert.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Rolling Stones - Rip This Joint </span>(<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/dXFWWWVucHZwaFEwTVE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/xcxOq6go" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Rolling Stones - Tumbling Dice</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/dXFWWWVoZEttUUd4dnc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/qLQ8RZZP" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)

Chiddy Bang Borrows A Killer Beat

Recently I caught a video of Chiddy Bang freestyling in some board room somewhere for a full seven minutes, as producer/DJ Xaphoon Jones handcrafts beats in the background. It’s impressive if only for Xaphoon’s on-the-fly production and Chiddy’s sheer stamina. This is no 16 bar freestyle. It’s a fun video to watch – I caught it over on Pretty Much Amazing the first time around. Chiddy really gets going as the freestyle progresses – he hits his stride between minutes 5 and 7, which is just ridiculous.

Among the beats dropped by Xaphoon you might recognize some Jackson 5 and some Lil Mama. Dope and Dope. BUT, you might not recognize an even doper beat nestled in there, which Chiddy refers to as “Let’s Talk About.” It’s from Black Milk’s excellent album Tronic, specifically from a cut called “Losing Out” that features Royce da 5’9”. It’s one of my favorite songs from that record, which was one of TSRE’s favorite albums of 2008. Check it out below if you haven’t heard it before.And since we are on the topic of Chiddy Bang, here’s a hot remix they did of Ellie Goulding’s “Under The Sheets” and a cut from their debut mixtape that samples MGMT. Get on it.

Black Milk f. Royce da 5’9” – Losing Out (YSI) (filesavr)

Ellie Goulding – Under The Sheets (Chiddy Bang Remix) (YSI) (filesavr)


Chiddy Bang - The Opposite of Adults (Kids) (YSI) (filesavr)

Recently I caught a video of Chiddy Bang freestyling in some board room somewhere for a full seven minutes, as producer/DJ Xaphoon Jones handcrafts beats in the background. It’s impressive if only for Xaphoon’s on-the-fly production and Chiddy’s sheer stamina. This is no 16 bar freestyle. It’s a fun video to watch – I caught it over on <a href="http://prettymuchamazing.com/news/chiddy-bang-freestyle-over-grizzly-bear-jackson-5-lil-mama-others" target="_blank">Pretty Much Amazing</a> the first time around. Chiddy really gets going as the freestyle progresses – he hits his stride between minutes 5 and 7, which is just ridiculous.<br /> <br /> <div class="MsoNormal"><object height="225" width="400"><param name="allowfullscreen" value="true" /><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always" /><param name="movie" value="http://vimeo.com/moogaloop.swf?clip_id=11542439&server=vimeo.com&show_title=1&show_byline=1&show_portrait=0&color=&fullscreen=1" /><embed src="http://vimeo.com/moogaloop.swf?clip_id=11542439&server=vimeo.com&show_title=1&show_byline=1&show_portrait=0&color=&fullscreen=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" allowscriptaccess="always" width="400" height="225"></embed></object><br /> <br /> Among the beats dropped by Xaphoon you might recognize some Jackson 5 and some Lil Mama. Dope and Dope. BUT, you might not recognize an even doper beat nestled in there, which Chiddy refers to as “Let’s Talk About.” It’s from Black Milk’s excellent album <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Tronic</i>, specifically from a cut called “Losing Out” that features Royce da 5’9”. It’s one of my favorite songs from that record, which was one of TSRE’s <a href="http://www.thestureidexperiment.com/2009/01/better-late-than-never-our-favorites-of.html" target="_blank">favorite albums of 2008</a>. Check it out below if you haven’t heard it before.And since we are on the topic of Chiddy Bang, here’s a hot remix they did of Ellie Goulding’s “Under The Sheets” and a cut from their debut mixtape that samples MGMT. Get on it.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><br /> </b><br /> <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Black Milk f. Royce da 5’9” – Losing Out</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/dXFWVWRqY1NJMHRFQlE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/v6csuUyf" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /> <br /> </div><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Ellie Goulding – Under The Sheets (Chiddy Bang Remix)</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/dXFWVWR1K3hUME5FQlE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/YTWi0cio" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /> <b><br /> </b><br /> <b>Chiddy Bang - The Opposite of Adults (Kids) </b>(<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/dXFWVWR1K3hwTVh2Wmc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/xpEvZtWT" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)

And Now for the Synth...

Yesterday I posted some pretty chill summer tunes and now for some more high octane summer jams. Dom pretty much came out of nowhere (ie Worcester, MA) and drop some synth bombs on their debut Sun Bronzed Greek Gods (what a perfect title). Reminiscent of MA forebears Passion Pit, Dom are full of syrupy melodic goodness with just enough sun-drenching to make them summer approved. Who would have imagined such energy and happiness coming out of Worcester? But yeah, check out Dom and their album and crank when in need of synth glory. I promise you I will be listening to Dom while I drive across sunny Utah in a week.

Dom - Living in America (YSI) (filesavr)

Dom - Hunny (YSI) (filesavr)

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAubWRqxdLSP0Wq4kJpXUCYI8miP5iEE0q6rrNw6IRwWVjL4XmRB_TiML46t6zN63wh0jDzUG9_T5gFxhdeh8l1eW-tu0jgWFPOkC-NnYe33XX70o_VMwszS_tLJ8d7EkIRvSzZM0PP7_K/s1600/TSRE+Worcester.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5473809312076167890" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAubWRqxdLSP0Wq4kJpXUCYI8miP5iEE0q6rrNw6IRwWVjL4XmRB_TiML46t6zN63wh0jDzUG9_T5gFxhdeh8l1eW-tu0jgWFPOkC-NnYe33XX70o_VMwszS_tLJ8d7EkIRvSzZM0PP7_K/s320/TSRE+Worcester.jpg" style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 258px;" /></a>Yesterday I posted some pretty chill summer tunes and now for some more high octane summer jams. Dom pretty much came out of nowhere (ie Worcester, MA) and drop some synth bombs on their debut <span style="font-style: italic;">Sun Bronzed Greek Gods</span> (what a perfect title). Reminiscent of MA forebears Passion Pit, Dom are full of syrupy melodic goodness with just enough sun-drenching to make them summer approved. Who would have imagined such energy and happiness coming out of Worcester? But yeah, check out Dom and their album and crank when in need of synth glory. I promise you I will be listening to Dom while I drive across sunny Utah in a week.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Dom - Living in America</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/dXFYQ1ZvYXliV3hFQlE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/aC2pYnqG" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Dom - Hunny</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/dXFYQ1ZpVnNvQnV4dnc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/BNTgrsY3" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)

Summer Music Countdown

Okay. Its one week before Memorial Day and do you have your summer playlist ready? You should at least be working on it. Don't worry though, we're here to provide you with some clutch tracks that I recently came across. These tracks are not for an energetic summer day, but rather a languid, hazy day spent sitting on a roof deck daydreaming or lounging beside a beach. This Lana del Rey track is money for summer. Its got everything, a steady beat, smooth female vocals and jazzy strings. Mantler and Lisa Jaeggi also provide some eclectic and mellow tracks for a lazy day. Enjoy the weekend and the summers ahead of you.

PS: I am leaving my job and will be taking the summer off from work before starting grad school in the Fall. My posting my be spotting this summer, but I trust you all to do interesting stuff and have fun. I hope I will.

Lana Del Rey - Diet Mtn Dew (YSI) (filesavr)

Mantler - In Stride (YSI) (filesavr)

Lisa Jaeggi - Oh Lady You Shot Me! (YSI) (filesavr)

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFgcfPdDy5W7sXCRVYoqLuR-Zv7A_7iJlU469cBdACZP1bx6nZSAhtqnOqaOyQm3b2hW_0jPAsbK4uoGGOmSKjEn8iHaT72G-hPj1BfqS7l1qFryQsrT49YDCRo_uPillcnp__9eVXKPaJ/s1600/TSRE+Watermain.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5473805772618068450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFgcfPdDy5W7sXCRVYoqLuR-Zv7A_7iJlU469cBdACZP1bx6nZSAhtqnOqaOyQm3b2hW_0jPAsbK4uoGGOmSKjEn8iHaT72G-hPj1BfqS7l1qFryQsrT49YDCRo_uPillcnp__9eVXKPaJ/s320/TSRE+Watermain.jpg" style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" /></a>Okay. Its one week before Memorial Day and do you have your summer playlist ready? You should at least be working on it. Don't worry though, we're here to provide you with some clutch tracks that I recently came across. These tracks are not for an energetic summer day, but rather a languid, hazy day spent sitting on a roof deck daydreaming or lounging beside a beach. This Lana del Rey track is money for summer. Its got everything, a steady beat, smooth female vocals and jazzy strings. Mantler and Lisa Jaeggi also provide some eclectic and mellow tracks for a lazy day. Enjoy the weekend and the summers ahead of you.<br /><br />PS: I am leaving my job and will be taking the summer off from work before starting grad school in the Fall. My posting my be spotting this summer, but I trust you all to do interesting stuff and have fun. I hope I will.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Lana Del Rey - Diet Mtn Dew</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/dXFYQ1ZuTWNVVGxFQlE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/VYNhVhzp" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Mantler - In Stride</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/dXFYQ1ZxUEM5RlpjR0E9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/958kTLVG" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Lisa Jaeggi - Oh Lady You Shot Me! </span>(<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/dXFYQ1ZrNkdrWTgwTVE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/XWP5o7OJ" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)

Take ME to the River

Today, I'd like to write (briefly) about a classic song: "Take Me to the River." Written and first recorded by Al Green in 1974, this song has been covered by a wide range of artists, from Tina Turner to the Dave Matthews Band. But one cover stands head and shoulders above the rest: the Talking Heads', from 1979.

I don't think of the Talking Heads as doing many covers, and so I wonder what led them to pick this particular song as their one, glorious cover. Whatever the reason, they really make it their own, transforming a smoothly grooving soul number with their signature rhythmic intensity (particularly in live versions) and some killer gospel-infused vocals. That said, it remains a pretty laid-back song by Talking Heads standards.

Anyways, you might as well just take a listen rather than suffer through me prattling on about what a great song/cover this is. Enjoy:

Al Green - Take Me to the River (YSI)

Talking Heads - Take Me to the River (YSI)

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg094LC5DzCQmpXWKa_p_hFwgkmQCRyYQGQ7_D4bK2VLun6EttskQCRoFlHU-6H0cOC3_esoOOo1a9NtulmQA_tHrKE1H9mSJAolB7nUjpnHb46m1cK_5x6zzZb4GsR0_0Ie6XftynZdEc/s1600/take-me-to-the-river-front.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5473555860455494370" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg094LC5DzCQmpXWKa_p_hFwgkmQCRyYQGQ7_D4bK2VLun6EttskQCRoFlHU-6H0cOC3_esoOOo1a9NtulmQA_tHrKE1H9mSJAolB7nUjpnHb46m1cK_5x6zzZb4GsR0_0Ie6XftynZdEc/s320/take-me-to-the-river-front.jpg" style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 253px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 237px; CURSOR: hand" /></a> Today, I'd like to write (briefly) about a classic song: "Take Me to the River." Written and first recorded by Al Green in 1974, this song has been covered by a wide range of artists, from Tina Turner to the Dave Matthews Band. But one cover stands head and shoulders above the rest: the Talking Heads', from 1979.<br /><div></div><br /><div>I don't think of the Talking Heads as doing many covers, and so I wonder what led them to pick this particular song as their one, glorious cover. Whatever the reason, they really make it their own, transforming a smoothly grooving soul number with their signature rhythmic intensity (particularly in live versions) and some killer gospel-infused vocals. That said, it remains a pretty laid-back song by Talking Heads standards. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Anyways, you might as well just take a listen rather than suffer through me prattling on about what a great song/cover this is. Enjoy:</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Al Green - Take Me to the River (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/transfer.php?action=batch_download&batch_id=dXFYTGszTWNxRTN2Wmc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>)</div><br /><div>Talking Heads - Take Me to the River (<a href="http://www.yousendit.com/transfer.php?action=batch_download&batch_id=dXFYTGszTWMwVWxFQlE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>)</div>

Missed Mix: Theophilus London's "I Want You"

I delayed almost a month before listening to the new Theophilus London mixtape, more out of laziness than anything else - I should have checked it out far earlier. It's a sensual little beast, a collection of half-serious, half-lighthearted tracks overlayed with panted moans and sexual interludes. There's no doubt about the theme running through I Want You.

But the mixtape is more than just sex. There are some dynamite tracks on this mix that really show of London's flow. Ever since Zack introduced me to Theophilus with "Leader of the New School" last year, I've been a big fan. He laid low for a while, producing only a handful of songs (of dubious quality) here and there. I almost lost faith.

Glad I stuck with it, because this tape is fun from front to back. While there may not be a track that is quite as solid as "Crazy Cousins" or "Leader of the New School," there are a variety of looks on the mix that fit Theo well. On the whole the mixtape has an 80's laid back vibe - I sometimes wish Theophilus were a little more present, but there's something for everyone here. There's a fun cover of Tweet's "Oops," some indie interpolations of Vampire Weekend, Ellie Goulding, and The Very Best, a Marvin Gaye cover, and some good old fashioned jams. Fans of Chiddy Bang and the new class of indie hip hoppers should pay attention right about...now.

Theophilus London f. Vampire Weekend - Give It Up Dad (YSI) (filesavr)

Theophilus London - Oops (Tweet Cover) (YSI) (filesavr)

Theophilus London - Pyromilitia (YSI) (filesavr)

I delayed almost a month before listening to the new Theophilus London mixtape, more out of laziness than anything else - I should have checked it out far earlier. It's a sensual little beast, a collection of half-serious, half-lighthearted tracks overlayed with panted moans and sexual interludes. There's no doubt about the theme running through <i>I Want You</i>.<br /> <br /> But the mixtape is more than just sex. There are some dynamite tracks on this mix that really show of London's flow. Ever since Zack introduced me to Theophilus with "Leader of the New School" last year, I've been a big fan. He laid low for a while, producing only a handful of songs (of dubious quality) here and there. I almost lost faith.<br /> <br /> Glad I stuck with it, because this tape is fun from front to back. While there may not be a track that is quite as solid as "Crazy Cousins" or "Leader of the New School," there are a variety of looks on the mix that fit Theo well. On the whole the mixtape has an 80's laid back vibe - I sometimes wish Theophilus were a little more present, but there's something for everyone here. There's a fun cover of Tweet's "Oops," some indie interpolations of Vampire Weekend, Ellie Goulding, and The Very Best, a Marvin Gaye cover, and some good old fashioned jams. Fans of Chiddy Bang and the new class of indie hip hoppers should pay attention right about...now.<br /> <br /> Theophilus London f. Vampire Weekend - Give It Up Dad (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/dXFWUXVwTlE1Ujd2Wmc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/12giveitupdad" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /> <br /> Theophilus London - Oops (Tweet Cover) (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/dXFWUXV1dzhENlR2Wmc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/09oopstweetcover" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /> <br /> Theophilus London - Pyromilitia (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/dXFWUXVwTlFKV05jR0E9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/11pyromiltia" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)

Taking New Jams From A-Trak For A Spin

A couple days ago, DJ phenom A-Trak dropped his latest mixtape, Dirty South Dance 2. The tape is, for those of you not keen on observation, the sequel to his highly successful Dirty South Dance. It's pretty baller - great beats behind some established flows - Weezy, Drake, Luda, (shudder) Soulja Boy. It shows off what A-Trak does best, blending catchy songs seamlessly into each other. From his work with Kanye to his excellent contribution to the Nike Run series, it seems like A-Trak can't really do anything wrong.

If anything is wrong with this mixtape, it's that it seems almost like Girl Talk Lite at times - the DJ/mash-up genre line has been so blurred that it's tough to remember what is original production here and what is recycled product. It's unfortunate since A-Trak's physical skills, in my mind, far outrank Gregg Gillis' - I guess that's the age we live in, though. Both dudes make baller tunes worth listening to.

Posted are some of my favorite tracks from this mixtape, which is pretty great from start to finish. Definitely a good mix to spin in the background as you do various things around the world. Cop the whole thing here or stream it in the player below:




A-Trak - Trizzy Turnt Up (YSI) (filesavr)

A-Trak - How Low Can U Bake (YSI) (filesavr)

A-Trak - Whatever You Shoot (YSI) (filesavr)

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-o4R-MkZridvV_nakHwQflMYfCw1w8CLg6vusZ-IywNKFx2Pz9c_lynWEn0CAafckbfcheykhu-3ljUEeaZqUel90k69bkJPfzH9V9r-aQHsmaIpERLwS35cQE5KmuEDGbONHl4-PpP8/s1600/atrakTSRE.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/AVvXsEj-o4R-MkZridvV_nakHwQflMYfCw1w8CLg6vusZ-IywNKFx2Pz9c_lynWEn0CAafckbfcheykhu-3ljUEeaZqUel90k69bkJPfzH9V9r-aQHsmaIpERLwS35cQE5KmuEDGbONHl4-PpP8/s320/atrakTSRE.JPG" /></a></div>A couple days ago, DJ phenom A-Trak dropped his latest mixtape, <i>Dirty South Dance 2</i>. The tape is, for those of you not keen on observation, the sequel to his highly successful <i>Dirty South Dance</i>. It's pretty baller - great beats behind some established flows - Weezy, Drake, Luda, (shudder) Soulja Boy. It shows off what A-Trak does best, blending catchy songs seamlessly into each other. From his work with Kanye to his excellent contribution to the Nike Run series, it seems like A-Trak can't really do anything wrong.<br /> <br /> If anything is wrong with this mixtape, it's that it seems almost like Girl Talk Lite at times - the DJ/mash-up genre line has been so blurred that it's tough to remember what is original production here and what is recycled product. It's unfortunate since A-Trak's physical skills, in my mind, far outrank Gregg Gillis' - I guess that's the age we live in, though. Both dudes make baller tunes worth listening to.<br /> <br /> Posted are some of my favorite tracks from this mixtape, which is pretty great from start to finish. Definitely a good mix to spin in the background as you do various things around the world. Cop the whole thing <a href="http://atrak.bandcamp.com/album/dirty-south-dance-2">here</a> or stream it in the player below:<br /> <br /> <object classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" height="100" width="400"><param name="movie" value="http://bandcamp.com/EmbeddedPlayer.swf/album=3691749361/size=venti/bgcol=FFFFFF/linkcol=4285BB/" /><param name="quality" value="high" /><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="never" /><param name="allowNetworking" value="always" /><param name="wmode" value="transparent" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#FFFFFF" /><embed src="http://bandcamp.com/EmbeddedPlayer.swf/album=3691749361/size=venti/bgcol=FFFFFF/linkcol=4285BB/" width="400" height="100" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" pluginspage="http://www.macromedia.com/go/getflashplayer" quality=high allowScriptAccess=never allowNetworking=always wmode=transparent bgcolor=#FFFFFF ></embed><noembed><a href="http://atrak.bandcamp.com/album/dirty-south-dance-2">Intro by A-Trak</a></noembed></object><br /> <br /> <br /> <b>A-Trak - Trizzy Turnt Up</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/dXFXWmdxU1BtNEx2Wmc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/02trizzyturntup" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /> <br /> <b>A-Trak - How Low Can U Bake</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/dXFXWmdseWFuSlEwTVE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/03howlowcanubake" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /> <br /> <b>A-Trak - Whatever You Shoot</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/dXFXWmdseWFmVFkwTVE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/06whateveryoushoot" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)

Laura Marling @ The First Church in Cambridge 5/12/10

Laura Marling resides in the pantheon of favorites and heartthrobs here at TSRE and last Wednesday night at the First Church in Cambridge over by Harvard was a truly special evening. Accompanied by an eclectic accompanying band composed of members of the opening acts, Laura Marling took the stage in the dimly lit crossing of the church. Already forceful on her own, Marling's songs, both new and old, took on a new dimension with the added cello, piano, drums and bass that filled and expanded throughout the cavernous church. The space really was perfect. Marling, standing slight under the vaulting unleashed wave upon wave of emotional and moving music and even showed off some amazing whistling skills that blew everyone away. After shooing away her friends, Marling, in addition to whistling, shared some touching personal anecdotes relating to Goodbye England, reinforcing her surprising maturity and friendliness. It is difficult to really fully describe the atmosphere of an artist as captivating as Marling intimately performing to a loving crowd in a unique space like a church. Really quite a special, just like Marling as an artist.

Some highlights included:

Laura Marling - Goodbye England (YSI) (filesavr)

Laura Marling - Ghosts (YSI) (filesavr)

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSUHvNNYt_H4_xPncCou5UXqXcVpBpRA-k8gydp90XvhmuwF7nMI5IdTOdh20Hob8HLPNCGFRII93-oiiTRiN2Ri-1OaT53w2YWptTgo7V9g_BHYoRd6J8kZ8JF2-IEgc9ICoc0dKOOao_/s1600/TSRE+Stained+Glass.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5472433077178257010" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSUHvNNYt_H4_xPncCou5UXqXcVpBpRA-k8gydp90XvhmuwF7nMI5IdTOdh20Hob8HLPNCGFRII93-oiiTRiN2Ri-1OaT53w2YWptTgo7V9g_BHYoRd6J8kZ8JF2-IEgc9ICoc0dKOOao_/s320/TSRE+Stained+Glass.jpg" style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 163px; height: 320px;" /></a>Laura Marling resides in the pantheon of favorites and heartthrobs here at TSRE and last Wednesday night at the First Church in Cambridge over by Harvard was a truly special evening. Accompanied by an eclectic accompanying band composed of members of the opening acts, Laura Marling took the stage in the dimly lit crossing of the church. Already forceful on her own, Marling's songs, both new and old, took on a new dimension with the added cello, piano, drums and bass that filled and expanded throughout the cavernous church. The space really was perfect. Marling, standing slight under the vaulting unleashed wave upon wave of emotional and moving music and even showed off some amazing whistling skills that blew everyone away. After shooing away her friends, Marling, in addition to whistling, shared some touching personal anecdotes relating to Goodbye England, reinforcing her surprising maturity and friendliness. It is difficult to really fully describe the atmosphere of an artist as captivating as Marling intimately performing to a loving crowd in a unique space like a church. Really quite a special, just like Marling as an artist.<br /><br />Some highlights included:<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Laura Marling - Goodbye England</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/dXFWSlI2U1BHa05jR0E9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/06goodbyeengland" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Laura Marling - Ghosts </span>(<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/dXFWSlI2U1A5bEN4dnc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/01ghosts_1" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)

Horns and Hip Hop

I love me some hip hop over strings, that's no joke. But it's not just strings in the background that I love. A pretty baller remix of Jay-Z and The Dap Kings dropped into my inbox a couple days ago, and I've really been enjoying it. At times the horns of the Dappers almost overtakes Jay's signature flow, which is a pretty impressive feat. No bones about it, though, this is a dope track.

The Jay-Z track reminds me of another mash-up I have in the old quiver, a remix of Clipse's "Mr. Me Too." It's a fantastic jazzy cut that adds in some horns as well. Definitely gives a cool lounge feel to what is otherwise a pretty upbeat rap.

And, just for kicks, my favorite "99 Problems" mash-up, with Architecture In Helsinki's "Heart it Races."

Jay Z f. The Dap Kings - 99 Problems (Ballard Remix) (YSI) (filesavr)

Clipse - Mr. Me Too (Z.A.K. Remix) (YSI) (filesavr)

Jay Z vs. Architecture in Helsinki - 99 Hearts (YSI) (filesavr)

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijBhyphenhyphenmeofsbEedGnf-6S6a8UYcAgbT1R1ryDLEouj1XX4aFiUE6LxuJRgtsJgn87F238mPRDg-tdJaCqg5HuSFlc7Etra-f4drmpf_TWDD0VhDOk5AVk51N4DkjxA1EL25PomIugXJEBE/s1600/trumpetTSRE.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/AVvXsEijBhyphenhyphenmeofsbEedGnf-6S6a8UYcAgbT1R1ryDLEouj1XX4aFiUE6LxuJRgtsJgn87F238mPRDg-tdJaCqg5HuSFlc7Etra-f4drmpf_TWDD0VhDOk5AVk51N4DkjxA1EL25PomIugXJEBE/s320/trumpetTSRE.JPG" /></a>I love me some hip hop over strings, that's no joke. But it's not just strings in the background that I love. A pretty baller remix of Jay-Z and The Dap Kings dropped into my inbox a couple days ago, and I've really been enjoying it. At times the horns of the Dappers almost overtakes Jay's signature flow, which is a pretty impressive feat. No bones about it, though, this is a dope track.<br /> <br /> The Jay-Z track reminds me of another mash-up I have in the old quiver, a remix of Clipse's "Mr. Me Too." It's a fantastic jazzy cut that adds in some horns as well. Definitely gives a cool lounge feel to what is otherwise a pretty upbeat rap.<br /> <br /> And, just for kicks, my favorite "99 Problems" mash-up, with Architecture In Helsinki's "Heart it Races."<br /> <br /> <b>Jay Z f. The Dap Kings - 99 Problems (Ballard Remix) </b>(<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/dXFYNnFLa0RvQUpFQlE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/99problemsballardremix" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /> <br /> <b>Clipse - Mr. Me Too (Z.A.K. Remix)</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/dXFYNnFERndqV0EwTVE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/mrmetoozakremix" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /> <br /> <b>Jay Z vs. Architecture in Helsinki - 99 Hearts</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/dXFYNnFERnd6NE94dnc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/0499hearts" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)

Female Vocals With A Pick-Me-Up

If there's one thing we have unabashedly come to love here at TSRE, it's dynamic female singers. There's a bumper crop of them out there to be found, each offering a slight tweak on the same formula: likable lady + great melodies = great songs. Regina, Feist, Ellie, Marina, Florence, Marling. Love, love, love, love, love, love.

But we also acknowledge that sometimes these wonderful women can lack a certain synthy/electro goodness that gets many fans' hearts beating. And that's where a post like today's comes in. Some tasty electronic remixes to amp up the club-worthiness of these beautiful voices without destroying what made them good in the first place.

We have a slow paced remix of Marina & The Diamonds that pulses and crescendos until it's impossible to sit still. We have a fun dancey remix of the already upbeat Ellie Goulding. And we have an ominously good remix of Nina Simone to remind you who the all-time queen of the female singer game just might be. Find your flavor and consume copiously.

Marina & The Diamonds - I Am Not A Robot (Clock Opera Remix) (YSI) (filesavr)

Ellie Goulding - Guns + Horses (Tonka Radio Cut) (YSI) (filesavr)

Nina Simone - Feeling Good (Troublemaker Remix) (YSI) (filesavr)

If there's one thing we have unabashedly come to love here at TSRE, it's dynamic female singers. There's a bumper crop of them out there to be found, each offering a slight tweak on the same formula: likable lady + great melodies = great songs. Regina, Feist, Ellie, Marina, Florence, Marling. Love, love, love, love, love, love.<div><br /> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxQg0m47sBG-4SnXMGQhDoTPLx1Uyc8iRSepJ7ofwFj2yyR9blH22s2ng6TGD610HUTJoSN8H7zNpWh0SUzuhRhj79b2OJHuKuTGxDUJ7Y_je0z5tPwFusjapn3jy23HHgI_gZC8Puw0k/s1600/marina-and-the-diamonds-remixTSRE.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/AVvXsEhxQg0m47sBG-4SnXMGQhDoTPLx1Uyc8iRSepJ7ofwFj2yyR9blH22s2ng6TGD610HUTJoSN8H7zNpWh0SUzuhRhj79b2OJHuKuTGxDUJ7Y_je0z5tPwFusjapn3jy23HHgI_gZC8Puw0k/s320/marina-and-the-diamonds-remixTSRE.JPG" /></a></div><div>But we also acknowledge that sometimes these wonderful women can lack a certain synthy/electro goodness that gets many fans' hearts beating. And that's where a post like today's comes in. Some tasty electronic remixes to amp up the club-worthiness of these beautiful voices without destroying what made them good in the first place.</div><div><br /> </div><div>We have a slow paced remix of Marina & The Diamonds that pulses and crescendos until it's impossible to sit still. We have a fun dancey remix of the already upbeat Ellie Goulding. And we have an ominously good remix of Nina Simone to remind you who the all-time queen of the female singer game just might be. Find your flavor and consume copiously.</div><div><br /> </div><div><b>Marina & The Diamonds - I Am Not A Robot (Clock Opera Remix) </b>(<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/dXFYS3d1UzdreEJFQlE9PQ">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/iamnotarobotclockoperaremix">filesavr</a>)</div><div><br /> </div><div><b>Ellie Goulding - Guns + Horses (Tonka Radio Cut)</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/dXFYS3drNkd6RS92Wmc9PQ">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/05gunsandhorsestonkaradiocut">filesavr</a>)</div><div><br /> </div><div><b>Nina Simone - Feeling Good (Troublemaker Remix) </b>(<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/dXFYS3d1UzdCMTQwTVE9PQ">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/feelinggoodtroublemakerremix">filesavr</a>)</div>

Awakening

For the last couple of months, I’ve been in a musical sleepwalk of sorts. Don’t get me wrong; I’ve been listening to good music, but, after telling myself at New Year’s that I’d make more of an effort to listen to music that's actually contemporary, I found myself listening to the same old classic soul tunes I’ve been listening to for years now. (Please don’t mistake this for any sort of criticism of Sam, Otis, Smokey, Stevie, Aretha, etc. They totally remain my faves.)

But the other night, I decided that, what the heck, I’d check out the new LCD Soundsystem album. While I can’t claim to be any sort of true LCD fan, I do count “All My Friends” (so typical, I know) among my favorites. But I can’t say that I’m familiar with the rest of James Murphy’s oeuvre.

Anyways, so I obtained a copy of This is Happening, and hit play. The first track, “Dance Yrself Clean,” grabbed me immediately with its contrast of naturally resonant percussion and obviously synthetic bass notes. I began to get lulled by the chill groove and vocal harmonies. One minute goes by, and then two… “Where is this going?” I wondered.

Then the track hits three minutes, and all of a sudden, four snares herald the arrival of a heavy-hitting synth pattern that immediately obliterates the spaciousness of the intro. I literally was caused to sit up straight in my seat, suddenly awake and in tune with the album. I proceeded to listen through the whole thing, even though it was past my bedtime. It was one of the most memorable music listening moments I've enjoyed in quite awhile.

Since then, I’ve read up on LCD—the recent New Yorker profile is pretty interesting if you can get your hands on it—and came across Pitchfork’s review of Sounds of Silver. I found one paragraph in particular quite on-point, as the writer really captures my sentiments about where we stand today in the music world and what Murphy’s place is in it:

We're besieged and stupefied enough by downloads and mixes and remixes and mashups and collections of songs masquerading as albums that an album that feels like an album strikes me as positively ideal right now. Thankfully, Murphy—a self-confessed 1970s rock nerd who grew up in the heyday of art-rock and albums as Statements—unapologetically sets out to make dance records that breathe like proper albums.

While the above was written more than three years ago about a different album, it certainly feels relevant today. And so I advise you to go out and buy This is Happening and give it a full, uninterrupted listen. Frankly, I feel dirty posting the below mp3, as the power of a single track in this case is so much less than that of the full album. But how else would I get you lovely readers here? Anyways, I’m finding the album quite enjoyable, and imagine you will too. Go check it out.

LCD Soundsystem – Dance Yrself Clean (YSI) (dropbox)

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7rlSoP0Y5hDnmPKF-Mdxn2HIW03CVdF4L6wqfvAcdSsNiQPpeZVOZwggqYhoFGmmlXAFG7FwA-0T23fXgjsH9sJY-NVCdxzCRYa9W9vn1_E9iaift1UxTzcurCZ69XGhM_z3L2bGLpfQ/s1600/lcd-soundsystem-this-is-happening.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5471092795391123938" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7rlSoP0Y5hDnmPKF-Mdxn2HIW03CVdF4L6wqfvAcdSsNiQPpeZVOZwggqYhoFGmmlXAFG7FwA-0T23fXgjsH9sJY-NVCdxzCRYa9W9vn1_E9iaift1UxTzcurCZ69XGhM_z3L2bGLpfQ/s320/lcd-soundsystem-this-is-happening.jpg" style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 237px; height: 237px;" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">For the last couple of months, I’ve been in a musical sleepwalk of sorts. Don’t get me wrong; I’ve been listening to good music, but, after telling myself at New Year’s that I’d make more of an effort to listen to music that's actually contemporary, I found myself listening to the same old classic soul tunes I’ve been listening to for years now. (<span style="font-style: italic;">Please</span> don’t mistake this for any sort of criticism of Sam, Otis, Smokey, Stevie, Aretha, etc. They totally remain my faves.)<br /><br />But the other night, I decided that, what the heck, I’d check out the new LCD Soundsystem album. While I can’t claim to be any sort of true LCD fan, I do count “All My Friends” (<span style="font-style: italic;">so</span> typical, I know) among my favorites. But I can’t say that I’m familiar with the rest of James Murphy’s oeuvre.<br /><br />Anyways, so I obtained a copy of <span style="font-style: italic;">This is Happening</span>, and hit play. The first track, “Dance Yrself Clean,” grabbed me immediately with its contrast of naturally resonant percussion and obviously synthetic bass notes. I began to get lulled by the chill groove and vocal harmonies. One minute goes by, and then two… “Where is this going?” I wondered.<br /><br />Then the track hits three minutes, and all of a sudden, four snares herald the arrival of a heavy-hitting synth pattern that immediately obliterates the spaciousness of the intro. I literally was caused to sit up straight in my seat, suddenly awake and in tune with the album. I proceeded to listen through the whole thing, even though it was past my bedtime. It was one of the most memorable music listening moments I've enjoyed in quite awhile.<br /><br />Since then, I’ve read up on LCD—the recent <span style="font-style: italic;">New Yorker</span> profile is pretty interesting if you can get your hands on it—and came across Pitchfork’s review of Sounds of Silver. I found one paragraph in particular quite on-point, as the writer really captures my sentiments about where we stand today in the music world and what Murphy’s place is in it:<br /><blockquote>We're besieged and stupefied enough by downloads and mixes and remixes and mashups and collections of songs masquerading as albums that an album that feels like an album strikes me as positively ideal right now. Thankfully, Murphy—a self-confessed 1970s rock nerd who grew up in the heyday of art-rock and albums as Statements—unapologetically sets out to make dance records that breathe like proper albums.</blockquote>While the above was written more than three years ago about a different album, it certainly feels relevant today. And so I advise you to go out and buy <span style="font-style: italic;">This is Happening</span> and give it a full, uninterrupted listen. Frankly, I feel dirty posting the below mp3, as the power of a single track in this case is so much less than that of the full album. But how else would I get you lovely readers here? Anyways, I’m finding the album quite enjoyable, and imagine you will too. Go check it out.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">LCD Soundsystem – Dance Yrself Clean</span> (<a href="http://www.yousendit.com/download/dXFXZEV4Z1BwaFJjR0E9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://dl.dropbox.com/u/3915396/01%20Dance%20Yrself%20Clean%201.mp3" target="_blank">dropbox</a>)<br /></span>

Athletic Tunes

Chris' commercial music post got me thinking about all the great tunes associated with sports. There are instances when quite good artists get featured in commercials for the NBA or MLB, such as Cornershop from a spot last year. Beyond these actual songs, I just love the cheesy made-for-sports songs of from the 90s like Pump Up the Jam. John Tesh should be in the hall of fame for Roundball Rock. I don't think the Bulls would have won all those titles without the NBA on NBC theme song.

Go Celtics!

Cornershop - Candyman (YSI) (filesavr)

Technotronic - Pump up the Jam (YSI) (filesavr)

<object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/V_h7Lm7C9Nk&hl=en_US&fs=1&"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/V_h7Lm7C9Nk&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" height="385" width="480"></embed></object><br /><br />Chris' commercial music post got me thinking about all the great tunes associated with sports. There are instances when quite good artists get featured in commercials for the NBA or MLB, such as Cornershop from a spot last year. Beyond these actual songs, I just love the cheesy made-for-sports songs of from the 90s like Pump Up the Jam. John Tesh should be in the hall of fame for Roundball Rock. I don't think the Bulls would have won all those titles without the NBA on NBC theme song.<br /><br />Go Celtics!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Cornershop - Candyman</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/dXFWckhhV3J3TGp2Wmc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/13candyman_1" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Technotronic - Pump up the Jam</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/dXFWckhhV3J0QTJ4dnc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/pumpupthejam" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)

Stu Reid Under The Covers: She & Him Cover Sam Cooke and The Morning Benders Take on Paul Simon

I love me some cover songs. More specifically, I love good cover songs. So when I found myself desperately close to entering a musical funk, I was borderline joyful to find myself wrenched from the gaping maw of a rut by a phenomenal cover by The Morning Benders. I've been slightly obsessed with The Morning Benders over the past couple of months, and a cover of "I Wanna Be Like You" from The Jungle Book was just too much to pass up.

But the discovery didn't end there, oh no. For a little digging revealed that a couple years ago The Morning Benders recorded an entire album's worth of covers, including some mind-bendingly good ones. It's called The Bedroom Covers, and it's definitely worth a download. LUCKY FOR YOU IT'S FREE! And still available over on The Morning Benders' blog. Go get it. My favorite of the tracks is a cover of Paul Simon's "Mother and Child Reunion," probably because I'm a sucker for Paul Simon. It's pretty great, though.

A little extra digging brought up another great little cover project from Zoey Deschanel and M.Ward, better known in the music world as She & Him. I'm not sure what they did this cover for, but it seems like maybe some sort of radio show. I'm pretty hesitant to hear anyone cover Sam Cooke, but they don't fool around with the phrasing too much, which I like. This tune has the human touch in Zoey's voice that was sadly missing from She & Him's latest album, Volume II. Dig in.


The Morning Benders - Mother and Child Reunion (Paul Simon Cover) (YSI) (filesavr)

The Morning Benders - I Wanna Be Like You (Jungle Book Cover) (YSI) (filesavr)

She & Him - Bring It On Home To Me (Sam Cooke Cover) (YSI) (filesavr)

I love me some cover songs. More specifically, I love <i>good</i> cover songs. So when I found myself desperately close to entering a musical funk, I was borderline joyful to find myself wrenched from the gaping maw of a rut by a phenomenal cover by The Morning Benders. I've been slightly obsessed with The Morning Benders over the past couple of months, and a cover of "I Wanna Be Like You" from The Jungle Book was just too much to pass up.<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvw-gU1ie9WCqc0q67aOWEKDnZ7kAdoeqdADrbmk2mTHjA_Urw29HXnrdqVo0DwQCsanuQiFL5TeDo_TgoqcQqElXpDr7UUj6rsfLCUJiReLYkoUjlWiSiFcK01hwcHBMASJyrh_wF1jM/s1600/TSREundercovers.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/AVvXsEgvw-gU1ie9WCqc0q67aOWEKDnZ7kAdoeqdADrbmk2mTHjA_Urw29HXnrdqVo0DwQCsanuQiFL5TeDo_TgoqcQqElXpDr7UUj6rsfLCUJiReLYkoUjlWiSiFcK01hwcHBMASJyrh_wF1jM/s320/TSREundercovers.JPG" /></a></div>But the discovery didn't end there, oh no. For a little digging revealed that a couple years ago The Morning Benders recorded an entire album's worth of covers, including some mind-bendingly good ones. It's called The Bedroom Covers, and it's definitely worth a download. LUCKY FOR YOU IT'S FREE! And still available over on The Morning Benders' <a href="http://ambenders.blogspot.com/2008/07/bedroom-covers.html" target="_blank">blog</a>. Go get it. My favorite of the tracks is a cover of Paul Simon's "Mother and Child Reunion," probably because I'm a sucker for Paul Simon. It's pretty great, though.<br /> <br /> A little extra digging brought up another great little cover project from Zoey Deschanel and M.Ward, better known in the music world as She & Him. I'm not sure what they did this cover for, but it seems like maybe some sort of radio show. I'm pretty hesitant to hear anyone cover Sam Cooke, but they don't fool around with the phrasing too much, which I like. This tune has the human touch in Zoey's voice that was sadly missing from She & Him's latest album, <i>Volume II</i>. Dig in.<br /> <b><br /> </b><br /> <b>The Morning Benders - Mother and Child Reunion (Paul Simon Cover) </b>(<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/OHo1anZnUzhwTVd4dnc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/motherandchildreunionpaulsimon" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /> <br /> <b>The Morning Benders - I Wanna Be Like You (Jungle Book Cover)</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/OHo1anZsT00zS3F4dnc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/iwannabelikeyoujunglebookcov" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /> <br /> <div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><b>She & Him - Bring It On Home To Me (Sam Cooke Cover)</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/OHo1anZnUzh3NUt4dnc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/bringitonhometomesamcookeco" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)</div><div><br /> </div>

Buy These Tunes: Commercial Music Worth Listening To

We’ve written on TSRE about our love of hearing good music in commercials before – rather than a selling-out of indie music, I see it as an improvement in the tolerability of commercials. Plus, it’s a great way for young bands to make some money in these cash-strapped days where more and more profits are coming outside the realm of album sales. Good music in commercials: I’m for it.

Recently I heard a Gatorade commercial with a song that really caught my ear. At first I thought it was an old song, as it definitely has a great retro feel to it. It’s by David Banner and somebody named Kermit Quinn, and it just has a jaunty swing to it that is pretty contagious. Not to mention the fact that Quinn’s voice has an awesome rasp to it, particularly when he sings the line “Make no mistake about it, you gotta evolve.” Great great great song. Almost has a little of the “Shortenin’ Bread” vibe/cadence to it toward the end, which is sweet.

Here are a couple songs that notably featured in great commercials. I had a friend that had never heard this Geggy Tah track. What a crime. Also, one of my favorite commercials (both musically and generally) below -if anyone has a longer version of the song (I’m not sure it exists) I’ll be your best friend.



David Banner and Kermit Quinn – Gatorade Has Evolved (YSI) (filesavr)

Geggy Tah – Whoever You Are (YSI) (filesavr)

Saul Williams – List of Demands (Reparations) (YSI) (filesavr)

We’ve written on TSRE about our love of hearing good music in commercials before – rather than a selling-out of indie music, I see it as an improvement in the tolerability of commercials. Plus, it’s a great way for young bands to make some money in these cash-strapped days where more and more profits are coming outside the realm of album sales. Good music in commercials: I’m for it.<br /> <br /> Recently I heard a Gatorade commercial with a song that really caught my ear. At first I thought it was an old song, as it definitely has a great retro feel to it. It’s by David Banner and somebody named Kermit Quinn, and it just has a jaunty swing to it that is pretty contagious. Not to mention the fact that Quinn’s voice has an awesome rasp to it, particularly when he sings the line “Make no mistake about it, you gotta evolve.” Great great great song. Almost has a little of the “Shortenin’ Bread” vibe/cadence to it toward the end, which is sweet.<br /> <br /> Here are a couple songs that notably featured in great commercials. I had a friend that had never heard this Geggy Tah track. What a crime. Also, one of my favorite commercials (both musically and generally) below -if anyone has a longer version of the song (I’m not sure it exists) I’ll be your best friend.<br /> <br /> <object height="344" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/8RbUKU1rCaE&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/8RbUKU1rCaE&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /> <br /> <b>David Banner and Kermit Quinn – Gatorade Has Evolved</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/OHo0eUNPZDVKV00wTVE9PQ">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/01gatoradehasevolved">filesavr</a>)<br /> <br /> <b>Geggy Tah – Whoever You Are</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/OHo0eUNQcGtBNkZjR0E9PQ">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/02whoeveryouare_1">filesavr</a>)<br /> <br /> <b>Saul Williams – List of Demands (Reparations)</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/OHo0eUNETStubVd4dnc9PQ">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/05listofdemandsreparations">filesavr</a>)

Sleigh Bells and Yeasayer @ the Paradise, Boston May 3, 2010

Both Yeasayer and Sleigh Bells came into this show in the midst of long hype-building tours and this show really highlighted what makes both of these bands deserving of attention these days. Sleigh Bells came out and simply put - shredded for half an hour. Ferocious guitar and shrieking vocals were layered over prerecorded synths and turned up LOUD. Their set was intense and really got the blood flowing. My ears haven't rung like that for a while. At a smaller venue the dance party would have been epic.

Next up, Yeasayer. It took a few songs to adjust to their slightly lower volume and intensity, but man their musicianship and precision was phenomenal. Live, the rhythmic precision of tracks off Odd Blood is very apparent as evidenced by the easy interplay of multiple synths and numerous sources of percussion on stage. Vocals and percussion deftly changed sources, guitar solos rose clearly above the synths and, much to my delight, Yeasayer split up their epic 1:15 minute set with an interlude of songs from All Hour Cymbals. With an infusion of Odd Blood era synths, classics Sunrise and 2080 stole the show. The All Hour Cymbals tracks were a great complement to the more synth heavy Ambling Alp and O.N.E. that were fun and danceable, yet not quite as eclectic or classic. To be honest I don't remember the order of songs, but the set flew by and I was dancing throughout. What a great balance between old and new, fast and slow, melodic and jittery. Great show and Yeasayer deserve all the hype. They are catchy as hell, yet also consummate musicians.

Yeasayer - 2080 (Brenmar Remix) (YSI) (filesavr)

Yeasayer - Madder Red (YSI) (filesavr)

Sleigh Bells - Crown on the Ground (YSI) (filesavr)

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm834nln7Rk2f4gAvgp6kpkVJwp81KdgSLYQBOQDIv9IBcxdnxzDa5s_gwsrhwGYmuHjXce1wvTzQYZAeiWBh_egknXjKNM724MUrLPqbT8zU6v_O1OTO5kM70Ygw31ajGVG4jbrgVPErg/s1600/TSRE+little+guy.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5469077481729364402" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm834nln7Rk2f4gAvgp6kpkVJwp81KdgSLYQBOQDIv9IBcxdnxzDa5s_gwsrhwGYmuHjXce1wvTzQYZAeiWBh_egknXjKNM724MUrLPqbT8zU6v_O1OTO5kM70Ygw31ajGVG4jbrgVPErg/s320/TSRE+little+guy.jpg" style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 320px;" /></a>Both Yeasayer and Sleigh Bells came into this show in the midst of long hype-building tours and this show really highlighted what makes both of these bands deserving of attention these days. Sleigh Bells came out and simply put - shredded for half an hour. Ferocious guitar and shrieking vocals were layered over prerecorded synths and turned up LOUD. Their set was intense and really got the blood flowing. My ears haven't rung like that for a while. At a smaller venue the dance party would have been epic.<br /><br />Next up, Yeasayer. It took a few songs to adjust to their slightly lower volume and intensity, but man their musicianship and precision was phenomenal. Live, the rhythmic precision of tracks off <span style="font-style: italic;">Odd Blood</span> is very apparent as evidenced by the easy interplay of multiple synths and numerous sources of percussion on stage. Vocals and percussion deftly changed sources, guitar solos rose clearly above the synths and, much to my delight, Yeasayer split up their epic 1:15 minute set with an interlude of songs from <span style="font-style: italic;">All Hour Cymbals</span>. With an infusion of <span style="font-style: italic;">Odd Blood</span> era synths, classics Sunrise and 2080 stole the show. The <span style="font-style: italic;">All Hour Cymbals</span> tracks were a great complement to the more synth heavy Ambling Alp and O.N.E. that were fun and danceable, yet not quite as eclectic or classic. To be honest I don't remember the order of songs, but the set flew by and I was dancing throughout. What a great balance between old and new, fast and slow, melodic and jittery. Great show and Yeasayer deserve all the hype. They are catchy as hell, yet also consummate musicians.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Yeasayer - 2080 (Brenmar Remix) </span>(<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/OHo2RGw4NnlJMHV4dnc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/2080brenmarremix_1" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Yeasayer - Madder Red</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/OHo2RGw4NnlEbUpjR0E9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/03madderred" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Sleigh Bells - Crown on the Ground</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/OHo2RGw4NnlVbSt4dnc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/01crownontheground_1" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)

Foreign Transmissions: Penny Penny

Awesome Tapes from Africa is an amazing source of African music, but most of the time the tunes are a little difficult to really get to know. The most recent offering from Awesome Tapes is Penny Penny, a South African artist whose tracks from 1994 sound surprisingly current and accessible. Their description of Penny Penny's "simple yet deep synth-pop anthems" might be stretching the pop sensibilities of the tape a little, but still there are some great languid summer jams here. These tracks are not just interesting African music, they really transcend the cultural divide and are enjoyable modern pop tunes. Enjoy on a hot, sunny day. Also, its Mothers Day today - don't forget to buy your mom flowers! AAAANNNNDDDD it was Claire's birthday yesterday. Happy Birthday!

Penny Penny - Dance Khomela (YSI) (filesavr)

Penny Penny - Ndzihere Bhi (YSI) (filesavr)

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWqqEMRXMGvNhZITX1eNEQwKBIpnvz4r5p7UdJBCEi9syYzO70ABGMnDyjlfNM8JYsa1rNtlgI2iQrEI8WvOrvp29zXjIKgkrOZjGDcmydYSj_QAm4c8WLp9mFSnYRkI8S-1rdpSACiBuM/s1600/TSRE+south+Africa.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5469079323801386114" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWqqEMRXMGvNhZITX1eNEQwKBIpnvz4r5p7UdJBCEi9syYzO70ABGMnDyjlfNM8JYsa1rNtlgI2iQrEI8WvOrvp29zXjIKgkrOZjGDcmydYSj_QAm4c8WLp9mFSnYRkI8S-1rdpSACiBuM/s320/TSRE+south+Africa.jpg" style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 193px;" /></a><a href="http://awesometapesfromafrica.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Awesome Tapes from Africa</a> is an amazing source of African music, but most of the time the tunes are a little difficult to really get to know. The most recent offering from Awesome Tapes is Penny Penny, a South African artist whose tracks from 1994 sound surprisingly current and accessible. Their description of Penny Penny's "simple yet deep synth-pop anthems" might be stretching the pop sensibilities of the tape a little, but still there are some great languid summer jams here. These tracks are not just interesting African music, they really transcend the cultural divide and are enjoyable modern pop tunes. Enjoy on a hot, sunny day. Also, its Mothers Day today - don't forget to buy your mom flowers! AAAANNNNDDDD it was Claire's birthday yesterday. Happy Birthday!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Penny Penny - Dance Khomela</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/OHo2RGx3Mm1WRC92Wmc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/04dancekhomela" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Penny Penny - Ndzihere Bhi </span>(<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/OHo2RGx3Mm05NVh2Wmc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/03ndziherebhi" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)

Beach House @ Webster Hall

I know Zack posted about seeing Beach House in Boston about a month ago, and I don't want to beat a dead horse, but I just wanted to take a second to echo his thoughts. I had the pleasure of seeing them two nights ago at Webster Hall in New York City, and my mind was completely blown. The more I think about it, the more sure I am that it was the best concert that I've seen in quite some time.

The setting was perfect - Webster's large open hall made everything seem larger than life, a great match for Victoria Legrand's voice. The songs, from top to bottom, were stellar. They played mostly from Teen Dream, but touched on four songs from Devotion and another from Beach House. My favorite songs opened the set, closed the main set, and finished the encore. I came in with medium-sized expectations and they were completely surpassed in every way.

Beach House also played a new song - the first time they'd ever played it live - called "White Moon." It was stellar; check out the video below. I'm already excited for the follow-up to Teen Dream. Which, coincidentally, I'll be listening to all weekend.



Beach House - Used to Be (YSI) (filesavr)

Beach House - Zebra (Ring Trick Remix) (YSI) (filesavr)

I know Zack posted about seeing Beach House in Boston about a month ago, and I don't want to beat a dead horse, but I just wanted to take a second to echo his thoughts. I had the pleasure of seeing them two nights ago at Webster Hall in New York City, and my mind was completely blown. The more I think about it, the more sure I am that it was the best concert that I've seen in quite some time.<br /> <br /> The setting was perfect - Webster's large open hall made everything seem larger than life, a great match for Victoria Legrand's voice. The songs, from top to bottom, were stellar. They played mostly from <i>Teen Dream</i>, but touched on four songs from <i>Devotion</i> and another from <i>Beach House</i>. My favorite songs opened the set, closed the main set, and finished the encore. I came in with medium-sized expectations and they were completely surpassed in every way.<br /> <br /> Beach House also played a new song - the first time they'd ever played it live - called "White Moon." It was stellar; check out the video below. I'm already excited for the follow-up to <i>Teen Dream. </i>Which, coincidentally, I'll be listening to all weekend.<br /> <br /> <object height="340" width="560"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/gPz-LlO9B4E&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/gPz-LlO9B4E&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="560" height="340"></embed></object><br /> <br /> <b>Beach House - Used to Be</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/OHo2WUhxeFhvQUpjR0E9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/usedtobe" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /> <br /> <b>Beach House - Zebra (Ring Trick Remix)</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/OHo2WUhxeFhwM2xFQlE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/zebraringtrickremix" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)

Best Cover Band Ever?

Months back, I wrote about a band that I felt was underrated: Hall and Oates. Recently, I’ve been listening to a band that I feel is similarly underrated: Three Dog Night. Though of a different era, Three Dog Night’s core hits are just about as catchy as those Hall & Oates classics.

I was surprised to learn that none of the members of Three Dog Night actually write music, so almost all of their songs are covers. Yet they handle these covers with such creativity that one forgets the original songwriter. Take the ubiquitous “Joy to the World.” Ever heard of Hoyt Axton? Well, he’s the country music singer-songwriter who wrote this classic.

“One,” (originally performed by Harry Nillson) is probably my favorite Three Dog Night track. It exudes such panicked hysteria as singer Chuck Negron repeatedly wails about that loneliest of numbers. And then there’s “Mama Told Me Not to Come,” a cover of a song that was originally written by Randy Newman for Eric Burdon of the Animals. One of their three Number One hits, Three Dog Night turns Newman’s original into a groovin’ soul number with a great infectious chorus. Indeed, Randy Newman himself cites this as his favorite version of the song. Though Wilson Pickett does a mean version himself…

And so I pose the question: Might Three Dog Night be the greatest cover band of all time? I’m hard pressed to think of a better one… I mean, c'mon, they have an album called Golden Bisquits! Check out the tracks below and weigh in if you'd like.

Three Dog Night – One (YSI) (filesavr)
Three Dog Night – Mama Told Me Not To Come (YSI) (filesavr)
Wilson Pickett – Mama Told Me Not To Come (YSI) (filesavr)

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS5bjl1Fr-pstlSSmgnCIuNbC0b0-VcGtmd_PXoHp4Df-J4QIZAfMJ46BLz5d-Tmcn748U7r6OMWdjS_7WTNmy_VPAV3yy-p-JTneLE6CzEIvjKFTqpXiADYyg7pPPsNlwo4ZOH4bQ8sE/s1600/Three+Dog+Night.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5468365185110635314" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS5bjl1Fr-pstlSSmgnCIuNbC0b0-VcGtmd_PXoHp4Df-J4QIZAfMJ46BLz5d-Tmcn748U7r6OMWdjS_7WTNmy_VPAV3yy-p-JTneLE6CzEIvjKFTqpXiADYyg7pPPsNlwo4ZOH4bQ8sE/s320/Three+Dog+Night.JPG" style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 225px; height: 228px;" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">Months back, I wrote about a band that I felt was underrated: <a href="http://www.thestureidexperiment.com/2009/09/infected.html" target="_blank">Hall and Oates</a>. Recently, I’ve been listening to a band that I feel is similarly underrated: Three Dog Night. Though of a different era, Three Dog Night’s core hits are just about as catchy as those Hall & Oates classics.<br /><br />I was surprised to learn that none of the members of Three Dog Night actually write music, so almost all of their songs are covers. Yet they handle these covers with such creativity that one forgets the original songwriter. Take the ubiquitous “Joy to the World.” Ever heard of Hoyt Axton? Well, he’s the country music singer-songwriter who wrote this classic.<br /><br />“One,” (originally performed by Harry Nillson) is probably my favorite Three Dog Night track. It exudes such panicked hysteria as singer Chuck Negron repeatedly wails about that loneliest of numbers. And then there’s “Mama Told Me Not to Come,” a cover of a song that was originally written by Randy Newman for Eric Burdon of the Animals. One of their three Number One hits, Three Dog Night turns Newman’s original into a groovin’ soul number with a great infectious chorus. Indeed, Randy Newman himself cites this as his favorite version of the song. Though Wilson Pickett does a mean version himself…<br /><br />And so I pose the question: Might Three Dog Night be the greatest cover band of all time? I’m hard pressed to think of a better one… I mean, c'mon, they have an album called <span style="font-style: italic;">Golden Bisquits</span>! Check out the tracks below and weigh in if you'd like.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Three Dog Night – One</span> (<a href="http://www.yousendit.com/download/OHo1ZGlrNXZvQUpjR0E9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/18one1" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Three Dog Night – Mama Told Me Not To Come</span> (<a href="http://www.yousendit.com/download/OHo1ZGlwY3l0Nit4dnc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/06mamatoldmenottocome1" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Wilson Pickett – Mama Told Me Not To Come</span> (<a href="http://www.yousendit.com/download/OHo1ZGlwY3llcEkwTVE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/21mamatoldmenottocome1" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)</span>

Your Twin Sister Is Hot

I saw Twin Sister open up for The Morning Benders last week, and I was blown away. Specifically, I was entranced by lead singer Andrea Estella. Her voice is brilliantly textured, a combination of Leslie Feist’s cuteness and Victoria Legrand’s smoky throatiness. Man do I dig that type of stuff.

Twin Sister is still working on their polish a little bit – in concert they were really good but not flawless. But it’s easy to forgive a few misplaced notes here and there when the songs are so addictively catchy. “I Want A House” is easily my favorite of their songs, a spaced-out and laid-back tune reminiscent of The XX.

“Nectarine” is a little more upbeat, but retains the casual vibe that makes this band so rare – they’re patient without seeming lackadaisical. A male vocalist takes the microphone here, joined by Estella only for some slippery little harmonies. Nice. I really dig their sound, looking forward to hearing them more in the future. These guys are onto something good.

Twin Sister – I Want A House (YSI) (filesavr)

Twin Sister – Nectarine (YSI) (filesavr) 

I saw Twin Sister open up for The Morning Benders last week, and I was blown away. Specifically, I was entranced by lead singer Andrea Estella. Her voice is brilliantly textured, a combination of Leslie Feist’s cuteness and Victoria Legrand’s smoky throatiness. Man do I dig that type of stuff.<br /> <div class="MsoNormal"><br /> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9goxME9cmbhBahHU1p8qxmCRWsLAf2uxDMubOXO-VGOhzKqAdaEoOwu3vb2RS_Cu3eE56rpGw2qoksrc1LZpFnMT4NWfStQ9sNFvRbmiuSIcx9o4DF50FJ4GrSSjAiENNBLmxFKbhGr4/s1600/twinsisterTSRE.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/AVvXsEh9goxME9cmbhBahHU1p8qxmCRWsLAf2uxDMubOXO-VGOhzKqAdaEoOwu3vb2RS_Cu3eE56rpGw2qoksrc1LZpFnMT4NWfStQ9sNFvRbmiuSIcx9o4DF50FJ4GrSSjAiENNBLmxFKbhGr4/s320/twinsisterTSRE.JPG" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal">Twin Sister is still working on their polish a little bit – in concert they were really good but not flawless. But it’s easy to forgive a few misplaced notes here and there when the songs are so addictively catchy. “I Want A House” is easily my favorite of their songs, a spaced-out and laid-back tune reminiscent of The XX. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /> </div><div class="MsoNormal">“Nectarine” is a little more upbeat, but retains the casual vibe that makes this band so rare – they’re patient without seeming lackadaisical. A male vocalist takes the microphone here, joined by Estella only for some slippery little harmonies. Nice. I really dig their sound, looking forward to hearing them more in the future. These guys are onto something good.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /> </div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Twin Sister – I Want A House</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/OHo1MFh1Uzd0TW14dnc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/iwantahouse" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /> </div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Twin Sister – Nectarine</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/OHo1MFhrNkdiR0t4dnc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/nectarine" target="_blank">filesavr</a>) </div>

Knock Knock. Who's There? The Knocks.

I’ve listened to The Knocks in heavy rotation before, but mostly in the context of their absolutely baller remixes of some major tunes (Ellie Goulding, Britney Spears, Jackson 5). Recently, though, they dropped an original track, and I have to say this much – it’s dope.

The nice thing about The Knocks’ original is that I don’t feel duped. I don’t feel like they set me up with one style of remix only to pull a switcheroo and release a single in a completely different style. This tune, “Blackout” takes the essence of what makes their remixes so good – pulsing beats, piano driven riffs, echoing vocals – and applies it to their own song. It hits, it pops, it works.

This track is not a classic. It’s not a song for the ages. It’s not even, maybe, a song that will keep spinning for more than a few weeks. But it’s the type of pop nugget that is perfect for a late spring night when you want an upbeat tune that doesn’t rip a song you already know. Enjoy it, and wash it down with some old Knocks rehashings.

The Knocks – Blackout (YSI) (filesavr)

Ellie Goulding – Under The Sheets (The Knocks Remix) (YSI) (filesavr)

The Jackson 5 – The Love You Save (The Knocks Remix) (YSI) (filesavr)

I’ve listened to The Knocks in heavy rotation before, but mostly in the context of their absolutely baller remixes of some major tunes (Ellie Goulding, Britney Spears, Jackson 5). Recently, though, they dropped an original track, and I have to say this much – it’s dope.<br /> <div class="MsoNormal"><br /> </div><div class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC3LmptCXy90u3HmmxY_0C6wzcm4QS8QIsg6jFhIwZmcTnm38f1IhblF5KZT-7JdmRBM1kypGeX8gdKbVpGarikHpjLyqak8hHiqo9qBGzpaTMSOrP1HvXeXbaQBKSc4D74GQIsfAbOHA/s1600/knocksTSRE.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/AVvXsEjC3LmptCXy90u3HmmxY_0C6wzcm4QS8QIsg6jFhIwZmcTnm38f1IhblF5KZT-7JdmRBM1kypGeX8gdKbVpGarikHpjLyqak8hHiqo9qBGzpaTMSOrP1HvXeXbaQBKSc4D74GQIsfAbOHA/s320/knocksTSRE.JPG" /></a>The nice thing about The Knocks’ original is that I don’t feel duped. I don’t feel like they set me up with one style of remix only to pull a switcheroo and release a single in a completely different style. This tune, “Blackout” takes the essence of what makes their remixes so good – pulsing beats, piano driven riffs, echoing vocals – and applies it to their own song. It hits, it pops, it works.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /> </div><div class="MsoNormal">This track is not a classic. It’s not a song for the ages. It’s not even, maybe, a song that will keep spinning for more than a few weeks. But it’s the type of pop nugget that is perfect for a late spring night when you want an upbeat tune that doesn’t rip a song you already know. Enjoy it, and wash it down with some old Knocks rehashings.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /> </div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">The Knocks – Blackout</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/OHo0SU5FQXA5NVUwTVE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/blackout" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><br /> </b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Ellie Goulding – Under The Sheets (The Knocks Remix)</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/OHo0SU5BYTJrYUJFQlE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/underthesheetstheknocksremix" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><br /> </b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">The Jackson 5 – The Love You Save (The Knocks Remix)</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/OHo0SU5FQXBCTW52Wmc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/theloveyousavetheknocksremix_1" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)</div>

Ratatat and Glitch Mob Looking Good

So Ratatatatatat, kings of all things buzzy guitar instrumental indie rock related, are back with their latest uncreatively-titled full length, LP4. This, on the heels of its predecessor LP3. Great work naming team. Very informative regarding where each release falls in the chronology of the duo’s discography.

Long story short, everything I’ve heard from the album is killer. Totally great, as almost everything Ratatat has released is. Where LP3 took a step back from some of the bombast of Classics and their self-titled debut, LP4 finds a happy medium with laid-back “Swisha” type grooves mixed with huge “Lex” and “Seventeen Years” grinds. Looks good on you, Ratatat.

It’s a good thing that Ratatat has stepped their game up a bit here (I was a tad disappointed with LP3) because Glitch Mob is right on their tail. Glitch Mob cops a little bit of Ratatat style, but adds some of their own flair here and there to keep the enthusiasm from waning. It’s the next step in the revolution that Ratatat has been a progenitor of – the instrumental, hip-hop-inflected indie rock. Next stop: Glitch Mob Remix Record.

Mmmm these tracks are tasty.

Ratatat – Neckbrace (YSI) (filesavr)

The Glitch Mob – Drive It Like You Stole It (YSI) (filesavr)

The Hood Internet - Billie "Wildcat" Jean (Ratatat vs. Michael Jackson) (YSI) (filesavr)

So Ratatatatatat, kings of all things buzzy guitar instrumental indie rock related, are back with their latest uncreatively-titled full length, <i style="">LP4.</i> This, on the heels of its predecessor <i style="">LP3</i>. Great work naming team. Very informative regarding where each release falls in the chronology of the duo’s discography.<br /><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDyJM-16MDY08tWIi1y9NmIRhWE7RAOSN3y5ccTcNDlYlIh-PrUuwRS9_vL8Zfr-IDSGRx_L_UI4CgGYsUc8ftrEmASnRLkscERQHrzHOLZvE_HC25Me08AggmQ54Q5B94ImCC_CXVkyM/s1600/ratatatTSRE.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/AVvXsEjDyJM-16MDY08tWIi1y9NmIRhWE7RAOSN3y5ccTcNDlYlIh-PrUuwRS9_vL8Zfr-IDSGRx_L_UI4CgGYsUc8ftrEmASnRLkscERQHrzHOLZvE_HC25Me08AggmQ54Q5B94ImCC_CXVkyM/s320/ratatatTSRE.JPG" /></a>Long story short, everything I’ve heard from the album is killer. Totally great, as almost everything Ratatat has released is. Where <i style="">LP3 </i>took a step back from some of the bombast of <i style="">Classics</i> and their self-titled debut, <i style="">LP4 </i>finds a happy medium with laid-back “Swisha” type grooves mixed with huge “Lex” and “Seventeen Years” grinds. Looks good on you, Ratatat.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">It’s a good thing that Ratatat has stepped their game up a bit here (I was a tad disappointed with <i style="">LP3</i>) because Glitch Mob is right on their tail. Glitch Mob cops a little bit of Ratatat style, but adds some of their own flair here and there to keep the enthusiasm from waning. It’s the next step in the revolution that Ratatat has been a progenitor of – the instrumental, hip-hop-inflected indie rock. Next stop: Glitch Mob Remix Record.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">Mmmm these tracks are tasty.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><strike><b style="">Ratatat – Neckbrace</b> (<a>YSI</a>) (<a>filesavr</a>)</strike></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style=""><br /></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="">The Glitch Mob – Drive It Like You Stole It</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/OHo2Qk14ZEszMW14dnc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/driveitlikeyoustoleit" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style=""><br /></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b>The Hood Internet - Billie "Wildcat" Jean (Ratatat vs. Michael Jackson)</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/OHo2Qk14ZEt5UkUwTVE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/billiewildcatjeanmichaeljacks" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)</div>

Be A Good Kid And Read The Books

I love The Books. Love them. The Lemon of Pink is, in my opinion, one of the most beautiful pieces of sound collage I’ve ever encountered – up there in brilliance with DJ Shadow and Four Tet. It’s an album that might not fully take after the first listen. But years after first hearing the record, I still find it growing on me with every subsequent spin.

Brilliant though they might be, The Books are not prolific. Perhaps that’s a sign that excellence of this sort – particularly in this genre – takes time. DJ Shadow takes ages between albums. Prefuse 73 puts out an album every few years and is considered fairly prolific. Four Tet waits a bit between each of his full releases. So it was with great pleasure that I heard that The Books are releasing a new album in the coming months - the first noise from their camp in over 4 years.

It was with even greater pleasure that I listened to the first single from said album, a song called “Beautiful People.” It picks up where Lost and Safe left off – a genre bending, mathematics-infused song that is as hypnotic as it is strangely catchy. This album is easily one of my most anticipated of 2010.

The Books – Beautiful People (YSI) (filesavr)

The Books – Tokyo (YSI) (filesavr)

The Books – Pagina Cinco (Prefuse 73 Remix) (YSI) (filesavr)

<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"></span></span><br /> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><div class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBpQo48bAdsfWz8L5cEyOTFBYDzScLGJgSqmM2kSb2fF-3CF9bf9ChtC4h9nvZv2iQpPYKGD57_Z5xVnKk31XO2-xwfwc79gkeyAuzG53DRRALgsB8hxEJhfl7AyTvsD4kJsp0E9cwV44/s1600/booksTSRE.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/AVvXsEgBpQo48bAdsfWz8L5cEyOTFBYDzScLGJgSqmM2kSb2fF-3CF9bf9ChtC4h9nvZv2iQpPYKGD57_Z5xVnKk31XO2-xwfwc79gkeyAuzG53DRRALgsB8hxEJhfl7AyTvsD4kJsp0E9cwV44/s320/booksTSRE.JPG" /></a>I love The Books. Love them. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">The Lemon of Pink </i>is, in my opinion, one of the most beautiful pieces of sound collage I’ve ever encountered – up there in brilliance with DJ Shadow and Four Tet. It’s an album that might not fully take after the first listen. But years after first hearing the record, I still find it growing on me with every subsequent spin.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /> </div><div class="MsoNormal">Brilliant though they might be, The Books are not prolific. Perhaps that’s a sign that excellence of this sort – particularly in this genre – takes time. DJ Shadow takes ages between albums. Prefuse 73 puts out an album every few years and is considered fairly prolific. Four Tet waits a bit between each of his full releases. So it was with great pleasure that I heard that The Books are releasing a new album in the coming months - the first noise from their camp in over 4 years.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /> </div><div class="MsoNormal">It was with even greater pleasure that I listened to the first single from said album, a song called “Beautiful People.” It picks up where <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Lost and Safe</i> left off – a genre bending, mathematics-infused song that is as hypnotic as it is strangely catchy. This album is easily one of my most anticipated of 2010.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /> </div><div class="MsoNormal"><b>The Books – Beautiful People</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/OHo3bUpTSWV6NE94dnc9PQ">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/beautifulpeople">filesavr</a>)</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /> </div><div class="MsoNormal"><b>The Books – Tokyo</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/OHo3bUpTSWV6NEpjR0E9PQ">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/tokyo">filesavr</a>)</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /> </div><div class="MsoNormal"><b>The Books – Pagina Cinco (Prefuse 73 Remix)</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/OHo3bUpTSWVsUit4dnc9PQ">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/05paginacinco">filesavr</a>)</div></span></span>

Missed the Boat Big Time: Edan

I've been hearing about Edan for a long time and much to my detriment I waited until now to finally check out Beauty and the Beat. Wow, I missed out big time. This album is beautiful, especially because of its identity crisis. Edan seemingly could not decide weather to make a funk or a hip hop album, so he made Beauty and the Beat embody both spirits. The funk takes the lead on Funky Voltron where Edan successfully layers hip hop vocals over an old school bass line and smooth horns. The hip hop rises to the fore on tracks like Fumbling Over Words that Rhyme and later on Mr. Lif and Dagha arrive to spit some fire. If it is a nice day where you are, get Beauty and the Beat plop yourself down and listen to this beautiful piece of work. There is so much musicianship, so much appreciation of musical history, and so much love put into it.

Edan - Funky Voltron Feat. Insight (YSI) (filesavr)

Edan - Fumbling Over Words that Rhyme (YSI) (filesavr)

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUeiq098ZtO_ZjODk3wZ_Cqc6ni9EpKXBMklC3Cp4kpcSnrUsJEYscv8rXyWhHarZJ3yJKqlCIa-w-dN5mOgr0co_QCkdaW486POBhOZRe_mvhyphenhyphenVMd8n08qF0PTQlWuR4GklYfw53uEVcF/s1600/TSRE+Edan.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5465728119749222802" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUeiq098ZtO_ZjODk3wZ_Cqc6ni9EpKXBMklC3Cp4kpcSnrUsJEYscv8rXyWhHarZJ3yJKqlCIa-w-dN5mOgr0co_QCkdaW486POBhOZRe_mvhyphenhyphenVMd8n08qF0PTQlWuR4GklYfw53uEVcF/s320/TSRE+Edan.jpg" style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" /></a>I've been hearing about Edan for a long time and much to my detriment I waited until now to finally check out <span style="font-style: italic;">Beauty and the Beat</span>. Wow, I missed out big time. This album is beautiful, especially because of its identity crisis. Edan seemingly could not decide weather to make a funk or a hip hop album, so he made <span style="font-style: italic;">Beauty and the Beat</span> embody both spirits. The funk takes the lead on Funky Voltron where Edan successfully layers hip hop vocals over an old school bass line and smooth horns. The hip hop rises to the fore on tracks like Fumbling Over Words that Rhyme and later on Mr. Lif and Dagha arrive to spit some fire. If it is a nice day where you are, get <span style="font-style: italic;">Beauty and the Beat</span> plop yourself down and listen to this beautiful piece of work. There is so much musicianship, so much appreciation of musical history, and so much love put into it.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Edan - Funky Voltron Feat. Insight</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/OHo3Q1ZxeFhsUjgwTVE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/02funkyvoltronfeatinsight" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Edan - Fumbling Over Words that Rhyme</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/OHo3Q1Z0R0ZtUUh2Wmc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/04fumblingoverwordsthatrhyme" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)