Diplo Rings The Sleigh Bells

Will I ever tire of Sleigh Bells remixes? Probably. But then again, if they keep maintaining the same level of quality, perhaps not. It seemed like for a while remixers weren't really sure how to treat Sleigh Bells - they either tried to manhandle the tracks and destroyed everything thing that was good in the first place, or they chopped up the originally beyond any possible recognition. Recently, though, some remixers have struck the perfect balance, finding a secret formula that preserves the integrity of Sleigh Bells' dynamic originals while simultaneously adding some extra flair.

The most recent to drop is Diplo's take on "Tell 'Em."He puts the drums on a faster loop and bumps them more frequently, resulting in a more thunderous track, despite suffering from a decrease in volume. Combined with some subtle Soulja Boy samples, it's a good look on the track.

My other favorite Sleigh Bells remix has to be Kingdom's take on that same song, "Tell 'Em." Kingdom has been killing it recently, and this track is no different. He takes the opposite approach from Diplo, spacing things out and slowing them down. Both sweet new spins on an old favorite, and they have me listening to Sleigh Bells with fresh ears all over again.

Sleigh Bells - Tell 'Em (YSI) (filesavr)

Sleigh Bells - Tell 'Em (Diplo Remix) (YSI) (filesavr)

Sleigh Bells - Tell 'Em (Kingdom Remix) (YSI) (filesavr)

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWGL5L3YdrpYoBBMgSvJrnOPXFGxFUqfcmsAJbg2GgRyJrAykCrGKhbbev3dJHxOaoLk0kIxMr4O7pNj9V7XX2zJA3NIClGu6Mu7ZfLsdcrMi4kHmNf39S-dm2Di7Jls7WiRjUQfb8HBA/s1600/sleighbellsbatTSRE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="202" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWGL5L3YdrpYoBBMgSvJrnOPXFGxFUqfcmsAJbg2GgRyJrAykCrGKhbbev3dJHxOaoLk0kIxMr4O7pNj9V7XX2zJA3NIClGu6Mu7ZfLsdcrMi4kHmNf39S-dm2Di7Jls7WiRjUQfb8HBA/s320/sleighbellsbatTSRE.jpg" width="320" /></a>Will I ever tire of Sleigh Bells remixes? Probably. But then again, if they keep maintaining the same level of quality, perhaps not. It seemed like for a while remixers weren't really sure how to treat Sleigh Bells - they either tried to manhandle the tracks and destroyed everything thing that was good in the first place, or they chopped up the originally beyond any possible recognition. Recently, though, some remixers have struck the perfect balance, finding a secret formula that preserves the integrity of Sleigh Bells' dynamic originals while simultaneously adding some extra flair.<br /> <br /> The most recent to drop is Diplo's take on "Tell 'Em."He puts the drums on a faster loop and bumps them more frequently, resulting in a more thunderous track, despite suffering from a decrease in volume. Combined with some subtle Soulja Boy samples, it's a good look on the track.<br /> <br /> My other favorite Sleigh Bells remix has to be Kingdom's take on that same song, "Tell 'Em." Kingdom has been killing it recently, and this track is no different. He takes the opposite approach from Diplo, spacing things out and slowing them down. Both sweet new spins on an old favorite, and they have me listening to Sleigh Bells with fresh ears all over again.<br /> <br /> Sleigh Bells - Tell 'Em (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/bFlFblFKY3lrWSt4dnc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/VDjtGak2" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /> <br /> Sleigh Bells - Tell 'Em (Diplo Remix) (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/bFlFblFKY3lUWUJFQlE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/7KlJ42yW" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /> <br /> Sleigh Bells - Tell 'Em (Kingdom Remix) (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/bFlFblFFNXZlaFJjR0E9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/aTLgKxTh" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)

Look Out, CyHi's Coming

CyHi Da Prynce - sometimes aka Prince CyHi - is one of my favorite up and coming young rappers. You might know him from his big time cameo last year on Kanye West's "So Appalled," but he's got a lot more than that going for him. He's one of just over a dozen rappers signed to Kanye's G.O.O.D. Music label, alongside names like Mos Def, Clipse's Pusha T, Common, and Kid Cudi. CyHi hasn't gotten the same amount of hype as some of his label-mates, but I suspect that will change in the near future. His flow has a raspy snarl that is really distinctive, and his rhymes are tight enough to set him apart from other young guns in the game.

Last year, CyHi dropped the Royal Flush mixtape, which features some of his best (and worst) work to date. In particular, the first track stands out with its ominous and lush beat. CyHi sounds dope over these types of beats; when he raps over autotuned pop he sounds much less important. So hopefully he'll stick the epic stuff and get going. If Kanye's latest is any indication of the direction of the label, CyHi's in good hands.

Five star dishes, different exotic fishes...

CyHi Da Prynce - Ring Bellz (YSI) (filesavr)

CyHi Da Prynce - Sideways (YSI) (filesavr)

Kanye West - So Appalled (YSI) (filesavr)

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkfKQgxt5DzxpY34wNeqUvj_e0tnke7QJpDFIpyn8EX44UWI9rXlPX8HISr3BVDY2nbiKf9tW8cvts4y4XJfy7AZr2CWmSdtkfNRrZDw95zXxhhBdWtACB_aoMgjFqlJud-_g0R3fYpYs/s1600/cyhiTSRE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="224" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkfKQgxt5DzxpY34wNeqUvj_e0tnke7QJpDFIpyn8EX44UWI9rXlPX8HISr3BVDY2nbiKf9tW8cvts4y4XJfy7AZr2CWmSdtkfNRrZDw95zXxhhBdWtACB_aoMgjFqlJud-_g0R3fYpYs/s320/cyhiTSRE.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> CyHi Da Prynce - sometimes aka Prince CyHi - is one of my favorite up and coming young rappers. You might know him from his big time cameo last year on Kanye West's "So Appalled," but he's got a lot more than that going for him. He's one of just over a dozen rappers signed to Kanye's G.O.O.D. Music label, alongside names like Mos Def, Clipse's Pusha T, Common, and Kid Cudi. CyHi hasn't gotten the same amount of hype as some of his label-mates, but I suspect that will change in the near future. His flow has a raspy snarl that is really distinctive, and his rhymes are tight enough to set him apart from other young guns in the game.<br /> <br /> Last year, CyHi dropped the <i>Royal Flush </i>mixtape, which features some of his best (and worst) work to date. In particular, the first track stands out with its ominous and lush beat. CyHi sounds dope over these types of beats; when he raps over autotuned pop he sounds much less important. So hopefully he'll stick the epic stuff and get going. If Kanye's latest is any indication of the direction of the label, CyHi's in good hands.<br /> <br /> Five star dishes, different exotic fishes...<br /> <br /> <b>CyHi Da Prynce - Ring Bellz</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/bFlHT20zT2JwM252Wmc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/PhDPupLV" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /> <br /> <b>CyHi Da Prynce - Sideways</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/bFlHT205UnFubHcwTVE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/KXt5fSWg" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /> <br /> <b>Kanye West - So Appalled </b>(<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/bFlHT20rZDVZY1N4dnc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/frE0xzdS">filesavr</a>)

Memory Tapes: Suddenly Less Strange

Memory Tapes' fantastic debut Seek Magic, featuring Bicycle-perhaps my favorite song of 2009-was deep, weird, and captivating. Tempering its distorted vocals and mysterious rhythms, Memory Tapes loved New Order-esque guitar solos on Seek Magic. On their new single Today is Our Life, off their upcoming as yet untitled album, Memory Tapes take a few steps away from Bicycle towards poppy, or mainstream if you will, electronic music. Still using the New Order guitars, Today Is Our Life is more upbeat and joyous than anything off Seek Magic. The mystery and creepy atmospherics are toned down in favor of showcasing vocals that now sound normal. While a surprise based on their previous work, the general laid back vibe remains and Today Is Our Life is a fantastic track with a great groove and plenty of synth and guitar solos. I am very much looking forward to seeing what Memory Tapes have to offer in 2011.

Memory Tapes - Today Is Our Life (YSI) (filesavr)

Memory Tapes - Bicycle (YSI) (filesavr)

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkcrY3Dvg3_IwdnZaw4G8-eruiWeY8C9zpDd6MUVpvxOKHxMHOXK48YUcr2URR6vqX4O07zvRUFSJ_dUTKMS9J-57mNgpaNRcqcb3RwBPXLvsUYLRhgsMCFuYy__ahZOHFUkUBrrc1VfjO/s1600/TSRE+Child+on+Tape.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5566326539663863346" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkcrY3Dvg3_IwdnZaw4G8-eruiWeY8C9zpDd6MUVpvxOKHxMHOXK48YUcr2URR6vqX4O07zvRUFSJ_dUTKMS9J-57mNgpaNRcqcb3RwBPXLvsUYLRhgsMCFuYy__ahZOHFUkUBrrc1VfjO/s320/TSRE+Child+on+Tape.jpg" style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" /></a>Memory Tapes' fantastic debut <span style="font-style: italic;">Seek Magic</span>, featuring Bicycle-perhaps my favorite song of 2009-was deep, weird, and captivating. Tempering its distorted vocals and mysterious rhythms, Memory Tapes loved New Order-esque guitar solos on <span style="font-style: italic;">Seek Magic</span>. On their new single Today is Our Life, off their upcoming as yet untitled album, Memory Tapes take a few steps away from Bicycle towards poppy, or mainstream if you will, electronic music. Still using the New Order guitars, Today Is Our Life is more upbeat and joyous than anything off Seek Magic. The mystery and creepy atmospherics are toned down in favor of showcasing vocals that now sound <span style="font-style: italic;">normal</span>. While a surprise based on their previous work, the general laid back vibe remains and Today Is Our Life is a fantastic track with a great groove and plenty of synth and guitar solos. I am very much looking forward to seeing what Memory Tapes have to offer in 2011.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Memory Tapes - Today Is Our Life</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/bFlFN3RhUENsUi92Wmc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/DOCSGmQt" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Memory Tapes - Bicycle</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/bFlFN3RlUzdBNkh2Wmc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/tH0ZkUvw" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)

James Blake

When I first heard about James Blake, I was convinced I was going to hate his music. A young British dubstep-inflected electro-minimalist who liberally uses autotune? No thanks.

The joke was on me. Blake's new self titled record is the best album I've heard all year. It grabbed my attention on first listen, and has only gotten better the more it spins. Blake is a master of using silence to inform his sound, and he's not afraid to expose his voice - autotuned or not. The closest analog I can think of is Bon Iver, although James Blake and For Emma, Forever Ago are drastically different records. Both are built for winter, and both are built to last.

Check out a video of Blake performing live at the BBC. "Wilhelms Scream" is one of the best tracks on a record full of good ones.



James Blake - Wilhelms Scream (YSI) (filesavr<) (removed upon request)

When I first heard about James Blake, I was convinced I was going to hate his music. A young British dubstep-inflected electro-minimalist who liberally uses autotune? No thanks.<br /> <br /> The joke was on me. Blake's new self titled record is the best album I've heard all year. It grabbed my attention on first listen, and has only gotten better the more it spins. Blake is a master of using silence to inform his sound, and he's not afraid to expose his voice - autotuned or not. The closest analog I can think of is Bon Iver, although <i>James Blake</i> and <i>For Emma, Forever Ago</i> are drastically different records. Both are built for winter, and both are built to last.<br /> <br /> Check out a video of Blake performing live at the BBC. "Wilhelms Scream" is one of the best tracks on a record full of good ones.<br /> <br /> <br /> <iframe allowfullscreen="" class="youtube-player" frameborder="0" height="345" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/8LDTsoNiT2Y" title="YouTube video player" type="text/html" width="560"></iframe> <br /> <s><b>James Blake - Wilhelms Scream</b> (YSI) (filesavr<)</s> (removed upon request)

BEEEEAAAAAAAANNNNNNNNNNSSSSSSSS

I'm a huge TV On The Radio acolyte - particularly for Tunde Adebimpe. The man's voice is unparalleled. So I was psyched to hear that he hooked up with rapper Beans, from Antipop Consortium, for a new track. Beans enlists Tunde to sing the hook, and sing it he does.

Beans has always had the best flow in Antipop Consortium, and he has rightfully been the most successful foray from that group. This song is no different, and it shows pretty well what TV On The Radio would sound like on some Blackalicious track; in particular, this tune reminds me of that group's "Release" featuring Saul Williams.

Dope dope dope. Really digging this track.

Beans f. Tunde Adebimpe - Mellow You Out (YSI)

Tunde Adebimpe - Unknown Legend (Neil Young Cover) (YSI)

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPJKx2QhoQ-Zbo2EEI__K7EiJ2AZ22eFkQcBVBfDeKCncbQXqfsra_FhrQku_crnkyKf9ZSqNNh4Qb4ryR7RaTV5hC2H4Rh5UU0MAahObfoH1YHBIJFn0DFG3OiiC1-46_R0xaLOvhZQU/s1600/tundeTSRE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="144" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPJKx2QhoQ-Zbo2EEI__K7EiJ2AZ22eFkQcBVBfDeKCncbQXqfsra_FhrQku_crnkyKf9ZSqNNh4Qb4ryR7RaTV5hC2H4Rh5UU0MAahObfoH1YHBIJFn0DFG3OiiC1-46_R0xaLOvhZQU/s320/tundeTSRE.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> I'm a huge TV On The Radio acolyte - particularly for Tunde Adebimpe. The man's voice is unparalleled. So I was psyched to hear that he hooked up with rapper Beans, from Antipop Consortium, for a new track. Beans enlists Tunde to sing the hook, and sing it he does.<br /> <br /> Beans has always had the best flow in Antipop Consortium, and he has rightfully been the most successful foray from that group. This song is no different, and it shows pretty well what TV On The Radio would sound like on some Blackalicious track; in particular, this tune reminds me of that group's "Release" featuring Saul Williams.<br /> <br /> Dope dope dope. Really digging this track.<br /> <br /> <b>Beans f. Tunde Adebimpe - Mellow You Out </b>(<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/bFlHb3BEQ0NsUi92Wmc9PQ">YSI</a>)<br /> <br /> <b>Tunde Adebimpe - Unknown Legend (Neil Young Cover)</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/bFlHb3BJYXlOQncwTVE9PQ">YSI</a>)

Foster the People Make Jams For All Seasons

Foster the People are responsible for one of my favorite songs of this past summer: Pumped Up Kicks. It is catchy and languid at the same time, just like summer. While still without a proper full length release, Foster the People are inching in that direction with the release of an EP featuring two new tracks. Helena Beat is anthemic, while still retaining the nerdy aesthetic. Pleasant sounding synths and handclaps abound and everyone is happy. Pretty much sums it up. Ones to watch in 2011.

Foster the People - Helena Beat (YSI) (filesavr)

Foster the People - Pumped Up Kicks (YSI) (filesavr)

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBKgEM8P2ecFzG7C6USb_yjgKVbpR4doR7s-GIFT0dvBy3cn_SIfPe8SWm712r7RbYenZ1UFd-s-PlnG-7DPxYZc7ASCP_Ub58wDn3Gi7FxxGO2xIwsM38OkcfPBHEKhDkikfW4oBSajRP/s1600/TSRE+Bananas+Foster.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563742687340822658" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBKgEM8P2ecFzG7C6USb_yjgKVbpR4doR7s-GIFT0dvBy3cn_SIfPe8SWm712r7RbYenZ1UFd-s-PlnG-7DPxYZc7ASCP_Ub58wDn3Gi7FxxGO2xIwsM38OkcfPBHEKhDkikfW4oBSajRP/s320/TSRE+Bananas+Foster.jpg" style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" /></a>Foster the People are responsible for one of my favorite songs of this past summer: Pumped Up Kicks. It is catchy and languid at the same time, just like summer. While still without a proper full length release, Foster the People are inching in that direction with the release of an EP featuring two new tracks. Helena Beat is anthemic, while still retaining the nerdy aesthetic. Pleasant sounding synths and handclaps abound and everyone is happy. Pretty much sums it up. Ones to watch in 2011.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Foster the People - Helena Beat</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/bFlGOGNlYStwaFJFQlE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/wOsp1gIr" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Foster the People - Pumped Up Kicks</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/bFlGOGNRMm1CSWRFQlE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/P9omct70" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)

Das Racist Revisited, And Heems Looks Back

Let's do a little Das Racist doubleshot today. I've been getting more and more into that rap duo, the more I've listened to Shut Up, Dude and Sit Down, Man. The raps are just good on an intellectual/social commentary level that a lot of hip hop doesn't reach, which makes them eminently revisitable.

Part of the Das Racist trip has involved following Himanshu Suri on twitter (@heems). He's half of the pair, and about as close to diplo as you can get on Twitter without delving into schlock territory.

Recently @Heems dropped this remix of Katy Perry's "Teenage Dream." He slows the song down to a trancelike state, and then lays some great lines on top. The first verse is nice, but the second one really seals the deal for me - "Flashback, teenage Heems" starts it off, and then the words play off the beat with a great patter throughout. Listen up to see what I'm talking about it, it's great.

The other recent Das Racist tune to come across my ears is a solid remix by bhts. bhts takes the best song off of the excellent Sit Down, Man - "hahahaha jk" - and remixes it with a more twilight zone in the dance club feel. It's weird and excellent simultaneously, just like Das Racist.

Get into it.

Heems (Das Racist) - Teenage Dream (Katy Perry Remix) (YSI) (filesavr)

Das Racist - hahahaha jk (bhts remix) (YSI)

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwsAnuy64j0EF6SxvCehcTYGfz5i4Oq97dYEDlTVETJ8iODdl2jYeBvXF1fGM6JjnS6lYGlNPI7Ok_yGCfs4B7-P6N5QWNqr5wxQyOruPBPlfRWd35nnR8XEIe1zfZGbYbMEErrHYfOwA/s1600/2010_03_das_racistTSRE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwsAnuy64j0EF6SxvCehcTYGfz5i4Oq97dYEDlTVETJ8iODdl2jYeBvXF1fGM6JjnS6lYGlNPI7Ok_yGCfs4B7-P6N5QWNqr5wxQyOruPBPlfRWd35nnR8XEIe1zfZGbYbMEErrHYfOwA/s320/2010_03_das_racistTSRE.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> Let's do a little Das Racist doubleshot today. I've been getting more and more into that rap duo, the more I've listened to <i>Shut Up, Dude </i>and <i>Sit Down, Man</i>. The raps are just good on an intellectual/social commentary level that a lot of hip hop doesn't reach, which makes them eminently revisitable.<br /> <br /> Part of the Das Racist trip has involved following Himanshu Suri on twitter (@heems). He's half of the pair, and about as close to diplo as you can get on Twitter without delving into schlock territory.<br /> <br /> Recently @Heems dropped this remix of Katy Perry's "Teenage Dream." He slows the song down to a trancelike state, and then lays some great lines on top. The first verse is nice, but the second one really seals the deal for me - "Flashback, teenage Heems" starts it off, and then the words play off the beat with a great patter throughout. Listen up to see what I'm talking about it, it's great.<br /> <br /> The other recent Das Racist tune to come across my ears is a solid remix by bhts. bhts takes the best song off of the excellent <i>Sit Down, Man</i> - "hahahaha jk" - and remixes it with a more twilight zone in the dance club feel. It's weird and excellent simultaneously, just like Das Racist.<br /> <br /> Get into it.<br /> <br /> <b>Heems (Das Racist) - Teenage Dream (Katy Perry Remix)</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/bFlHb3BPdzg3N0EwTVE9PQ">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/bbIpvUgO">filesavr</a>)<br /> <br /> <b>Das Racist - hahahaha jk (bhts remix)</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/bFlHb3BKTlErV3hFQlE9PQ">YSI</a>)

The Precocious Youngsters are Back! And How!

The Smith Westerns are young, but that has not stopped them from already releasing a pretty solid self titled debut last year. On January 18th they will release their second album (and first proper one) entitled Dye It Blond. And it is GOOD! Many of you have probably heard the first single Weekend and the entire album captures that exuberant and nostalgic lo-fi sound. It reminds me of if circa 2010 hipsters were transported to Pleasantville and had a dance party. Most striking is how much more polished it all sounds. Take for example the track Imagine Pt. 3, once a promising demo and now cleaned up into an epic ballad. The first version is from Dye It Blond, and the second is an unreleased demo. Check out the slight, yet crucial, changes. The Smith Westerns are making moves and it sounds great.

Smith Westerns - Imagine Pt. 3 (YSI) (filesavr)

Smith Westerns - Imagine, Pt. 3 (YSI) (filesavr)

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpHGDzLDKfe66jfXzA_Qp3AYUoTpPpvxdvL2QxsBn_30O8HG-BanqSwdWzWWkSgBH4V_WCr5EwZS8bo_Y02EFCEtWJCzn5J_co_O4E_oeXSjz-34oz7Rbg8ONLQw3X_3qqMiajjeS_6wPs/s1600/TSRE+Fries.png" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5560362104731624850" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpHGDzLDKfe66jfXzA_Qp3AYUoTpPpvxdvL2QxsBn_30O8HG-BanqSwdWzWWkSgBH4V_WCr5EwZS8bo_Y02EFCEtWJCzn5J_co_O4E_oeXSjz-34oz7Rbg8ONLQw3X_3qqMiajjeS_6wPs/s320/TSRE+Fries.png" style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 245px;" /></a>The Smith Westerns are young, but that has not stopped them from already releasing a pretty solid self titled debut last year. On January 18th they will release their second album (and first proper one) entitled <span style="font-style: italic;">Dye It Blond</span>. And it is GOOD! Many of you have probably heard the first single Weekend and the entire album captures that exuberant and nostalgic lo-fi sound. It reminds me of if circa 2010 hipsters were transported to Pleasantville and had a dance party. Most striking is how much more polished it all sounds. Take for example the track Imagine Pt. 3, once a promising demo and now cleaned up into an epic ballad. The first version is from <span style="font-style: italic;">Dye It Blond</span>, and the second is an unreleased demo. Check out the slight, yet crucial, changes. The Smith Westerns are making moves and it sounds great.<br /><br />Smith Westerns - Imagine Pt. 3 (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/RlRxWUhrdGo5eFh2Wmc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/6gEjMhUt" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /><br />Smith Westerns - Imagine, Pt. 3 (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/RlRxWUh1dzhtNEx2Wmc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/XHAZbxJD" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)

Finally, The Living in America Remix

I first heard rumor of the nominally awesome remix collaboration between Massachusetts synth rockers Dom and Alabama rapper Gucci Mane over the summer and it has finally arrived! I'm not quite sure what I think yet, it is certainly interesting, slower, and a bit weird, but is it good?


Dom - Living in America Remix [feat. Gucci Mane] (YSI) (filesavr)

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6HEtS1e8ZR4-heYfHvWVJqD4ysCq8g6YCzH6HUq4ugT8j4oC50_uEPTwopdVDKno9nbH7c03eM1p3pKRCeWSB90ZhF9Kr3YUoD6V9ScadqHsejvMPnJAYmc26_gRIOa9fqvcE9Wu_enSF/s1600/TSRE+Dom.png" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5560360798821588130" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6HEtS1e8ZR4-heYfHvWVJqD4ysCq8g6YCzH6HUq4ugT8j4oC50_uEPTwopdVDKno9nbH7c03eM1p3pKRCeWSB90ZhF9Kr3YUoD6V9ScadqHsejvMPnJAYmc26_gRIOa9fqvcE9Wu_enSF/s320/TSRE+Dom.png" style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 249px; height: 320px;" /></a>I first heard rumor of the nominally awesome remix collaboration between Massachusetts synth rockers Dom and Alabama rapper Gucci Mane over the summer and it has finally arrived! I'm not quite sure what I think yet, it is certainly interesting, slower, and a bit weird, but is it good?<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Dom - Living in America Remix [feat. Gucci Mane]</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/RlRxWUh1Z2pvQUx2Wmc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/qrCx3WsM" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)

Take A Baths

One artist that definitely didn't get his due on this here page in 2k10 was Baths, the solo project of Will Wiesenfeld. He's a dynamic performer with a Passion Pit-esque sound. Where those guys tend toward the pop side of synths, though, Baths cuts it up, opting for a glitchier sound. His debut album, Cerulean, is reminiscent of Four Tet's poppier moments, and definitely worth a listen for fans of that sort of thing.

Check out a couple tracks from Baths below. These tunes, along with Gold Panda and Kids & Explosions, have been satisfying my glitchy synth pop electro needs for a few months now.

Baths - Aminals (YSI) (filesavr)

Baths - Lovely Bloodflow (YSI) (filesavr)

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOx2eKx1wNESlP2bMvPGgDzyOJ4tIT11xMwBYKGYuhjA-ReY8Z3CZTPKeijPHP3RaYFErNpUbIq-tNLLWl4k6LGK7QBPdMqAloiqytKz6wIPuVYXH3k0KrKJ_r4ZiQta6RXcNodxbUYS8/s1600/BathsTSRE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOx2eKx1wNESlP2bMvPGgDzyOJ4tIT11xMwBYKGYuhjA-ReY8Z3CZTPKeijPHP3RaYFErNpUbIq-tNLLWl4k6LGK7QBPdMqAloiqytKz6wIPuVYXH3k0KrKJ_r4ZiQta6RXcNodxbUYS8/s320/BathsTSRE.jpg" width="320" /></a>One artist that definitely didn't get his due on this here page in 2k10 was Baths, the solo project of Will Wiesenfeld. He's a dynamic performer with a Passion Pit-esque sound. Where those guys tend toward the pop side of synths, though, Baths cuts it up, opting for a glitchier sound. His debut album, <i>Cerulean, </i>is reminiscent of Four Tet's poppier moments, and definitely worth a listen for fans of that sort of thing. <br /> <div> <br /></div> <div> Check out a couple tracks from Baths below. These tunes, along with Gold Panda and Kids & Explosions, have been satisfying my glitchy synth pop electro needs for a few months now.</div> <div> <br /></div> <div> <b>Baths - Aminals</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/RlRvZHlvQTZoeVkwTVE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/J6bYlW06" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)</div> <div> <br /></div> <div> <b>Baths - Lovely Bloodflow</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/RlRvZHlobEFPSHcwTVE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/jdGGkKpU" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)</div>

How About Atlanta in 2010?

Happy 2011! I hope everyone had an evening to their liking. Bring on the 2011 music, but first there are a few more matters to be discussed from 2010.

How big was Atlanta in 2010? Big Boi released a killer album earlier in the year and Janelle Monae's transition from sci-fi chanteuse to R&B pop powerhouse began this year with the ArchAndroid. Don't get me wrong, the Real Housewives of Atlanta and Michael Turner have a lot going for them every year, but the intersections and crossovers between Sir Lucious and the ArchAndroid really stamped the Atlanta aesthetic on popular music this year. Not only superlative musically and full of new sounds, these albums self-consciously sought to be fun and lighthearted. Hear that Stankonia throwback in Cold War?

Big Boi - Shutterbug (feat. Cutty) (YSI) (filesavr)

Janelle Monae - Cold War (YSI) (filesavr)

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3tP6nsiJYQxkUd7Po3gLkZPRFvwbU3ZyIUX6n0shMZsuGh4QxVJL-XM-sAGpL6_l9UehcAula1-Hk0QqHuY3WvAdT35cClUYo3zyZL7zx9-TxbbDem-DvTC3pk9VZiv_2WD_q2aIIdszS/s1600/TSRE+Sumi.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5556321986964504354" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3tP6nsiJYQxkUd7Po3gLkZPRFvwbU3ZyIUX6n0shMZsuGh4QxVJL-XM-sAGpL6_l9UehcAula1-Hk0QqHuY3WvAdT35cClUYo3zyZL7zx9-TxbbDem-DvTC3pk9VZiv_2WD_q2aIIdszS/s320/TSRE+Sumi.jpg" style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 280px;" /></a>Happy 2011! I hope everyone had an evening to their liking. Bring on the 2011 music, but first there are a few more matters to be discussed from 2010.<br /><br />How big was Atlanta in 2010? Big Boi released a killer album earlier in the year and Janelle Monae's transition from sci-fi chanteuse to R&B pop powerhouse began this year with the <span style="font-style: italic;">ArchAndroid</span>. Don't get me wrong, the Real Housewives of Atlanta and Michael Turner have a lot going for them every year, but the intersections and crossovers between <span style="font-style: italic;">Sir Lucious</span> and the <span style="font-style: italic;">ArchAndroid</span> really stamped the Atlanta aesthetic on popular music this year. Not only superlative musically and full of new sounds, these albums self-consciously sought to be fun and lighthearted. Hear that Stankonia throwback in Cold War?<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Big Boi - Shutterbug (feat. Cutty) </span>(<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/RlRxTG16MGNnYU5FQlE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/WmMXZ22z" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Janelle Monae - Cold War</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/RlRxTG16Y1M1bmhjR0E9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/dPKv2nox" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)