quickcrit - music reviews

Howler - America Give Up (2012)

2012-01-10T18:07:00.001-08:00

This is rock and roll... This is Howler. Their debut album, America Give Up, is vigorous and catchy much like one of my favorite bands of 2011, The Vaccines. The Drums, Surfer Blood and The Soft Pack (plug in other surf-rock influenced band name here) also come to mind, because the surf-rock trend is so hot right now. The 11 track album comes in at just over 32 minutes, which leaves each riff-laden, power pop track to come and go at a '70s punk pace. It is truly structured as an album from a different era. I suppose we shouldn't be surprised anymore due to all the musical virtuosos currently on the prowl, but I am still amazed by the fact that Howler is made up of mere kids. They pull together an amazingly mature and musically-educated sound, while keeping the songs and song-titles playful and carefree. This album is packed with singles, so take a half-hour out of your day, especially while the sun is shining here in California, and have a listen to some youthful summer jammy-jams.

Goodbye 2011; Hello 2012... United States of Pop.

2011-12-28T07:42:00.000-08:00

Top Albums of 2011 - QuickCrit Music Survey Results

2011-12-19T08:00:00.003-08:00

Thanks to everyone who participated in the survey, especially those who took the time to comment. Here are our top albums, or at least the 43 that we could agree upon. There are many more great albums, singles, and comments on our individual lists.

U.S. Royalty – Mirrors
Although the gorgeous harmonies caught my attention, their live show made me love their heavy rockers. -Awmercy
My Morning Jacket – Circuital
Solid album. -NightraiN
Givers – In Light
Many Saturday morning dance parties have gone down when throwing this album on. A couple of late night ones too. -Ancient Indian Wizard
It's hard to resist the compelling beats and rolling ten-track fun that this album represents. -Jeremiah
PJ Harvey - Let England Shake
I love when she gets back to the dark and dirty places in her mind and churns out music that's all kinds of raw and moody. Plain and simple, the woman can do no wrong. -Mona
Great modern anti-war album. -Tex
The Strokes – Angles
The fact is that this band writes damn good songs and they're tight as hell. Does anything else really matter? -Lucas
Yuck – Yuck
Yuck harkens back to the good old days when Superchunk and Sonic Youth reigned supreme. -Mona
Totally reminds me of all my favorite high school years bands creating one super group. -Ancient Indian Wizard
Zola Jesus – Conatus
Opera Babe. -Justin Slaughter
Hey, you know what? Sometimes shit's rough. Have some Zola Jesus. -Tex
Blind Pilot - We Are the Light
Glad they got off their bikes and back into the studio. I know it's only been a few months, but can't wait for the next album. -Brasilliant
An anticipated album and a feel-good one at that, it can be forgiven its saccharine nature by its sheer infectiousness. It gets ya out of bed in the morning! -Jeremiah
Generationals – Actor-Caster
An excellent, hand-clap-y album to listen and dance around to. -TheCraneWife
Generationals put out a steadily rocking true-blue pop album with modern sensibilities. -Tex
William Elliott Whitmore – Field Songs
Connected with this album more than any other this year. Great, emotional song writing and vocals. -NightraiN
The Streets – Computers And Blues
He wraps up his career as being The Streets with a song about it being his last day of work! It works on multiple levels!! Well played Mike Skinner. -Ancient Indian Wizard
The Cave Singers – No Witch
Great live show. Great album. -NightraiN
Like Fleet Foxes, Cave Singers are to be applauded more for what they do in the middle of songs than for the entirety of their songs themselves. -Jeremiah
Wilco – The Whole Love
Not since Being There has the band offered up such a variety of songs on one album. Experimental, beautiful, fun, and moving. -Max
If you hang around long enough you'll hear a few Wilco albums you fall in love with and couple you can't wrap your ears or brain around. This is the band's strongest lineup to date, giving adventurous strength to a quality set of Jeff Tweedy songs. -Lucas
Waters - Out In The Light
So packed with fantastic emotionally raw and exuberant songs, I turn up one jam, only turn up the next even louder. -Awmercy
Nothing like some unleaded rock fuel to fill up your spiritual tank. -Nesto
Smith Westerns - Dye It Blonde
It's hard not to love a band who so clearly loves its T. Rex and Bowie as much as I do. -Mona
Some of the catchier melodies I've heard all year. -Max
The Drums – Portamento
Darker offering from these sugar coated popsters. The fantastic vintage synth tones, unmatched tightness, and unforgettable melodies kept this album on repeat in my house for weeks on end. -Max
For anyone who doesn't like the production on this record, wait til you hear these tracks live. They're stripped down and sound great, much like their Visiomento sessions. Yeah, there's a reason why I saw them three times on this tour. -Mona
The Vaccines - What Did You Expect From The Vaccines?
Young and fun soundtrack for summer. Fulfilled my lust for Surfer Blood. -Awmercy
Some of my favorite songs this year are off this album, and it remains in heavy rotation. -NightraiN
Devotchka - 100 Lovers
A melting pot like DevotchKa could only happen in America. From mariachi to gypsy, Parisian folk to chamber pop there's nothing they won't add to the mix. It's refreshing to hear a band that is so unconcerned (or unaware) with the leanings of popular indie music yet land smack in the middle of it. -Lucas
Gypsy fun times. -ve1cro
Real Estate – Days
I love these guys. Call it wake and bake, call it lo-fi, call it hazy surfadelic. Whatever you call it, it's fucking awesome and a superb follow-up to their previous debut. -Mona
Such an effortless laidback-ness to this album. I was put completely at ease the very first time I heard it. Fans of early Stone Roses might enjoy the hints of Ian Brown in Martin Courtney's voice. -Max
Wu Lyf – Go Tell Fire To The Mountain
WU-LYF sounds like The Murder City Devils and Mogwai had a little English baby. They rock hard and also mellow, and you can make up your own lyrics, because they're pretty unintelligible. -TheCraneWife
I like a song called "We Bros"??!! Fuck yea. And I like it a lot. These guys shred. I don't really recommend following them on Facebook as they kind of come across as idiots but I don't even care cause these guys write tunes man! -Ancient Indian Wizard
Adele – 21
She has an amazing voice. -Katie
Sad but empowering. -Julia
Priory – Priory
“Lady of Late” made me give the album a second listen and it turned out to be great. -Brasilliant
Damn catchy indie pop. Great live show too. -Awmercy
Washed Out – Within & With Out
Within & Without is atmosphere music, it ebbs and flows with layer upon layer of textured synth and Greene's hypnotic vocals. -Lucas
Atmospherically grandiose yet incredibly intimate. -Max
A successful major sophomore effort if sometimes a bit innocuous. -Tex
Dolorean - The Unfazed
“Unfazed by pain, unfazed by love, unfazed by rain that won’t let up.” I wish. -Awmercy
I really need to ditch the kid and go see these guys live. -Brasilliant
An intensely thoughtful album. This album anchored my bar prep. -NightraiN
Ryan Adams - Ashes & Fire
My man-crush for Ryan is still undying! -Ancient Indian Wizard
Portugal, The Man - In the Mountain, In the Cloud
Another great album, all the way through. -Nesto
Not as solid as American Ghetto, but still super fun. -NightraiN
3rd year in row on my list. Can’t fight it. I love this band and how each album adds a new twist. -Awmercy
James Blake - James Blake
If this list were based on potential talent alone James Blake would surely sit near the top. Soulful and sparse, Blake crafts his ballads with alien rhythms, processed vocals and soulful pianos. Bon Iver fans take notice - James Blake is a kindred spirit and a great playlist companion. -Lucas
A pleasant surprise overall, especially since I don't typically like this kinda music. -Mona
Stunning... I expect great things from him as an artist and producer. -Tex
The Black Keys - El Camino
When it comes to "rocking out" this duo does not disappoint. -Julia
Ever wonder what a $30 Sears guitar would sound like run through $100,000 worth of equipment? Here's your chance. El Camino’s insanely glossy production seemingly veers away from every obvious strength of the musicians involved. The results are... another excellent Black Keys record. -Lucas
I have no interest in attending stadium tours, so I’ll probably never see them live again, but I still love their pounding grooves and huge bad-ass riffs. -Awmercy
M83 - Hurry Up We'r Dreaming
Anthony Gonzalez's songs mix the optimism, immediacy and heartbreak of teenage romance with sonic imagery that Jim Henson and Frank Oz would be proud of. Hurry Up is a grand achievement. -Lucas
More poppy than my usual M83, but I'm into it. -Justin Slaughter
Apart from stand-out track "Midnight City," I wasn't nearly as excited about this album. -Mona
tUne-uArDs - W H O K I L L
Perhaps the tightest album of the year, this album has a big, pounding sound minimally done. An album that knows what it is but an artist who has leveled out the consistency of her sound. -Jeremiah
I had a dream that there was a muppet show for adults and that this was the soundtrack. It was perfect. -Rain
My vote for this year's most unique album. -Max
Tennis - Cape Dory
Life can be complicated and scary. This album is simple and beautiful. Life can be too. -Ancient Indian Wizard
Tennis is so good I thought that they were Swedish! -TheCraneWife
Even though I'm writing this in my cold ass house in the middle of December, Tennis manages to always make it feel like summer. -Max
St. Vincent - Strange Mercy
It is incredibly delightful to watch Annie Clark grow as a songstress; strange, beautiful, enticing. -Tex
Like a really good Tori Amos, this album is laced with acerbic narrative that paints a picture of a cracked soul starving for connection. -Jeremiah
At first glance Strange Mercy appears to be a set of shockingly confessional songs. Digging deeper you realize that she is 'the actor' and that these are in fact roles. The emotional potency of these performances make them all the more impressive. -Lucas
Kurt Vile - Smoke Ring For My Halo
At the end of the day, simple songs always win in my book. Kurt Vile's songs are short, sweet, and completely addictive. Mix that in with fully flushed out layers of acoustic brilliance and you have one exceptional album. -Max
This album really hit me as I was toiling, with headphones in, under full rain gear at work, digging drainage trenches in the pouring rain. If you imagine that tableau while listening, I think you'll see where I was at. -Tex
Destroyer – Kaputt
I've always had a huge soft spot for Destroyer and when I saw the floating whales with backing saxaphone in the Kaputt video I knew Dan Bejar had done it again. It's so so good. Unless you hate saxophones. then you're bummed. -Ancient Indian Wizard
Reliably bizarre, yet still totally ruling, album. Good use of saxophone (and I don't use that phrase lightly). -TheCraneWife
Dan Bejar is about as eery and cryptic as fuck as his music. As it just so happens, I love every bit of it. -Mona
The Antlers - Burst Apart
Just an all around amazing album. Some of it sounds a little like Destroyer. Best song/extended metaphor about putting a dog to sleep I've heard all year (all my life, really). -TheCraneWife
Great sleepy-time album. -ve1cro
I sure do love their sad bastard way. "Putting The Dog To Sleep" though??!! Fuck... -Ancient Indian Wizard
Tom Waits - Bad As Me
Tom still makes the best soundtrack for anytime of the day/night whiskey drinking. I found myself looking in the mirror, across from me in the parlor, and thinking that this album playing made me, somehow, just a little bit more sexy, in a gritty way. -Rain
Took a few listens for the whole album to really get under my skin, but “Chicago” hit me from the start. -Anon
Fleet Foxes - Helplessness Blues
Tough deciding who to put first, but if I just count the number of plays, they must be the winner. Best work yet. -Nesto
This record is like non-stop multiple auralgasms perfect for a rainy day. -Mona
While Peckhold's lyrics have become a little more concrete and he has taken a turn toward storytelling, the band it commended for making a richer musical landscape and for offering fascinating turns in their songs. -Jeremiah
Really liked it when it first dropped; kinda forgot about it down the stretch. -NightraiN
Youth Lagoon - The Year Of Hibernation
A remarkable young talent who hopefully hasn't just produced a wonderful one-off, this album is low-fi goodness with music that cuts around and through lyrics that otherwise tend to be forgettable. -Jeremiah
Relax. Listen to Youth Lagoon. -Ancient Indian Wizard
Light For Fire - Light For Fire
Romanticizing and ultimately celebrating heartbreak by diving into a whiskey bottle has never sounded so necessary. -Awmercy
Liked this when I first heard it late last year, still love it today. -NightraiN
I really enjoyed this album and can't wait to hear more from them. -Katie
If this top ten list were for albums about drinking and self-loathing and regret, then this album would top it. The appeal of this album is a direct reflection of a man's draw toward his own miserable past. -Jeremiah
Foster The People – Torches
This album kicks ass. -Graham
I saw them live for the first time this year. Absolutely stellar. -Julia
Another song that was constantly played on the radio and I bought the album out of curiosity of what the rest sounded like. -Katie
The EP songs were so solid that the rest of the album seemed a little meh. -NightraiN
Beirut - The Rip Tide
I love Zach Condon and his mix of Southwestern indie rock meets mariachi band whateverness. -Mona
Everything Beirut is pretty amazing. Creative, unique and unbelievably skilled. -NightraiN
I could be angry that Zach Condon is so young and talented but that would be akin to being angry at the sun for giving everything life. -Rain
Bummer love letter music. Loved it. -Justin Slaughter
I seriously have a hard time not liking anything this guy does. Nothing groundbreaking (for Beirut) here, but it's another solid group of melodic, horn filled, pop gems. -Max
Bon Iver - Bon Iver
Bon Iver's sophomore effort is one for the ages. These arrangements spring from Vernon's sublime falsetto and keyboards and branch out with strings, horns, pedal steel and chimes. They bleed wild originality and ambition while still having a feeling of strange familiarity. -Lucas
Good for wistful times when you just wanna plop down on your bed, not talk to anyone, zone out, and kick back to something mellow. -Mona
I knew it when I heard it. #1. Fantastic effort, Mr. Vernon and company. Keep it up. -Tex
Beautifully mellow. No, Bon Iver's music has not gotten old. -NightraiN
Pretty... very pretty. -Graham
Killer. -Brian
The Decemberists - The King Is Dead
I've liked the Decemberists for a long time, but the direction they're moving in now makes me love them - just fantastic. -Anne
Not only did they produce an album that didn't make me want to gouge my eyes out, they knocked it out of the park. Well done, Decemberists. I you rekindled my love. -Brasilliant
This straight ahead approach (with some fairly obvious R.E.M. worship) suits them well. It hit the spot early in the year and is holding on strong into another winter. The King Is Dead has more heart, less brains and it's better for it. -Lucas
A little more folk, a little less shanty, all around great. -TheCraneWife
I instantly became enamored with this album. -ve1cro
The standout tracks on this album are amazing. -Jeremiah
It's a love-hate relationship. Today? Love. -Nesto
Stripped of pretension, the band seems like it’s having fun. -Awmercy

2011 QuickCrit Music Survey

2011-11-25T12:09:00.001-08:00

With the end of the year right around the corner, it's time to start thinking back to all the music you loved in 2011. This year's survey asks about your favorite albums from 2011 and gives you room for comments and to list your favorite song off the album. Just like the past few years, the overall results will be posted on QuickCritMusic.com and will feature your comments, so make them sharp and pithy.

Please feel free to share the survey with your music-loving friends or post it where those friends might find it. If you are stuck on what to write, feel free to check out what we wrote last year.

The survey closes Sunday, December 11th. I'll start posting results the following week.

Take the 2011 QuickCrit Music Survey

Top 5 Shows at MusicfestNW

2011-09-16T16:26:00.002-07:00

MusicfestNW was amazing. Fueled by beer, whiskey and almost no sleep, Tex and I saw 20 bands at 7 different venues (a feat of endurance I doubt I'll soon repeat) and we didn't come close to seeing everyone we wanted to see. Oddly, some of the bands we were most excited to see didn't end up being our favorites.

While there were plenty of great moments, these 5 standout above the rest:

Blind Pilot @ Doug Fir
It felt very intimate and special to see Blind Pilot at the Doug Fir recording their KEXP session with maybe a hundred other people. Too bad they'll never play a full set here. The new songs all sounded fantastic.

Talkdemonic @ Branx
We headed over to Branx on a whim between bands and were blown away. I had no idea that drums and a violin could produce such a captivating performance. Judging from their set, their next album is going to be fantastic, and perhaps louder and wilder than their previous albums.

Yacht @ Branx
DANCE PARTY! We were dripping with sweat minutes after entering the typically hot and humid Branx. Nothing was dry by the time they left the stage, easily living up to a stranger's assessment when she urged us to see them the night before: "Their shows are like a cross between gym class and pure joy."

AgesandAges @ Doug Fir
Like a backwoods revival, they quickly worked up a frenzy and never let up. The stage radiated with a joyous and communal feeling. Their harmonies are just amazing and need to be heard live.

Givers @ Doug Fir
The Givers came out swinging. Building upon and even surpassing the energy of the fantastic AgesandAges set. Singer Tiffany Lamson pounded her toms like a Taiko drummer. And just when it seemed as if they were winding down after a wild hour and a half, they introduced a rapper, Tiny, who brought the house down.

Although these are my top 5 shows, I think Tex will agree with 4 out of the 5 listed here.

Mighty Fine - "Black Train"

2011-09-06T18:07:00.002-07:00

How have I never heard of the Mighty Fine? I feel like my friends have let me down. "Black Train" (mp3) has that down and dirty garage soul sound somewhere between the Dirtbomb's Ultraglide in Black and the Black Joe Lewis. This New Orleans band doesn't have much of a web presence, but apparently it's been 5 years since they released their debut EP (which I just ordered). The good news is that the full length album, Get Up To Get Down, should be released this year. I can't wait to hear it.

Jim Jones Revue @ Doug Fir

2011-09-04T15:22:00.002-07:00

Damn. That was an amazing show. The Jim Jones Revue roared through their set like a greased up Oldsmobile 88 pushing into the red. Never letting down, each song they seemed to reach new sonic heights, the power and noise almost obscuring the band's tightness. Every time the guitarist, Rupert Orton, decked out in full leather, stepped up to the front he delivered tight blasting solos. His understated demeanor contrasting with his thunderbolt riffs. The keyboardist, Henri Herbert, off to side, banging wildly like a manic Jerry Lee Lewis. Although each member's performance was impressive and wild, it was clear who owned the stage. From start to finish, Jim Jones showed what a frontman could be -- an argument for what rock n' roll should be. His dramatic and powerful gestures reminded me of a pissed off and crazy Al Pacino, with a little of David Bowie's flare. He postured, flirted, preached, and directed, all the while his hair and sweat flying. I have no idea how he can bark all night every night, nor that a howl could be so textured. It was as mesmerizing as it was impressive.

Simply put, if you like rock n' roll, you need to see this band.

MusicfestNW 2011: An Ambitious Plan

2011-09-03T10:46:00.004-07:00

My wife and son are evacuating to Chicago. My buddy is heading up from the Bay Area. So from Thursday through Sunday, we plan on watching as much live music as humanly possible, fueled mostly by beer, bacon, and tacos.

With so many venues packed with a mix of up and comers, fan favorites, and stellar local bands, we can't go wrong at MusicfestNW. It's like a musical choose your own adventure. While it's tempting to sprint from venue to venue, crossing the river too many times will wear off the beer buzz and run the risk of listening to the desired set while standing outside in line (Better show up early Blind Pilot fans). So for this preview, I'm focusing on my favorite pairings.

I'm lukewarm on the headliners for the featured concerts at Courthouse Square, but some of the openrs are great. Personally, I'd much rather see Sallie Ford & The Sound Outside headline a concert with Typhoon and Morning Teleportation. Sallie Ford kills live and shouldn't be missed. Whichever you choose, make sure to show up early.

Wednesday
Weedle's Groove @ Mission Theater - This whole night be scratched, as I likely will be helping the family out the door. However, this music documentary focusing on the Seattle underground soul scene sounds amazing and is followed by a concert by some of the featured musicians. Plus, it would kick of a back to back night soul and funk celebration.

Thursday
Monarques/Dennis Coffey/Charles Bradley @ Aladdin Theater - Guitarist of the legendary Motown Funk Brothers, Coffey's pyrotechnics have been pillaged for breakbeats for decades.Charles Bradley is Daptone's newest star. The label seems to doing for soul what Fat Possum once did for Hill Country blues. Add local retro party poppers the Monarques to the mix and you have a solid evening.

Favorites I'm missing: Dolorean, Unknown Mortal Orchestra

Friday
Weinland/Sharon Van Etten/Blitzen Trapper @ Crystal Ballroom
Weinland albums are pretty mellow, but they do know how ramp it up live. Actually all three bands should mix up introspective and spirited songs. Van Etten could be a festival highlight, although it's hard to beat Blitzen Trapper in front of a hometown crowd.

Lost Lander/AgesandAges/Givers @ Doug Fir - This might be the best 1-2-3 punch of up-and-coming bands. Prepare to hear a lot about Lost Lander when they finally releases their album. AgesandAges back porch harmonies are even better live. Expect the Givers to deliver a playfully riotous closing to the night.

Favorites I'm missing: Bare Wires, Thee Oh Sees

Saturday
I thought I had Saturday all figured out until The Vaccines late cancellation threw my schedule off. And while seeing Blind Pilot is tempting, especially since their new album sounds amazing, I'm not excited about their openers.

And And And/Helio Sequence @ Doug Fir
The addition of Helio Sequence more than makes up for the loss of the Vaccines. Here's hoping this leads to a new album. Plus everyone should come just to see if And And And can live up to the hype (They usually do).

Ravishers/Priory @ Someday Lounge
Lately, I've been really digging the Ravishers laid back indie rock. This is actually Priory's second set of the day (@ Rontoms for the Burnside Distributors Free Party). Their electronic indie pop is damn catchy.

Favorites I'm missing: Ty Segall, Blind Pilot

Sunday
Free Marmoset Music Party @ Rontoms
Holy crap, Dolorean, Light for Fire, Pancake Breakfast are all playing. Seriously, this lineup can't be missed. See previous post.

MusicfestNW: Free Marmoset Music Party

2011-08-25T15:54:00.007-07:00

Just when you thought MusicfestNW couldn't get any better, it does. Marmoset Music is hosting a free two stage day-long party at Rontoms on Sunday September 11th, featuring cheap beers and some of my favorite local and regional bands. This is godsend if you are like me and going to miss Dolorean on Thursday at Bunk Bar (I'll be at Charles Bradley). But I'm just as excited to see Light For Fire and Black Whales, both of which have great new albums out. And then there's Pancake Breakfast and Hey Marsailles. Judging from the set times, it is going to be nonstop music from to 2 to 11, so I'll probably be there as soon as the bacon washes away the hangover and kicking it until I'm ready to drop.

Set times after the jump.

Tu Fawning - 10:00pm
Dolorean - 9:00pm
Hey Marsailles - 8:00pm
Willy Vlautin of Richmond Fontaine - 7:00pm
Pickwick - 6:30pm
Black Whales - 6:00pm
Pancake Breakfast - 5:30pm
Quiet Life - 5:00pm
Wesley Jensen and the Wildcats - 4:30pm
Greenhorse - 4:00pm
Light For Fire - 3:30pm
Pocketknife - 3:00pm
Great Wilderness - 2:30pm
Tartufi - 2:00pm

Jim Jones Revue - Burning Your House Down (US 2011)

2011-08-24T09:49:00.005-07:00

Within any established genre, I'm always impressed when a new band comes along and makes it feel vital again. It's been a long time since I listened to much rockabilly, but the Jim Jones Revue may make me revisit that stance. Then again, they aren't so much rockabillies as a garage rock and punk band that incorporates honky tonk piano and blues chords. From the first track, it's clear that Jim Jones is a a wild and charismatic frontman. "High Horse" matches Jerry Lee Lewis sized carnal swagger with his ferocious key pummeling. Little Richard. On "Premeditated" his voice shifts between a guttural growl and a needle-in-the-red howl. It injects the songs with power and energy that evokes images of them thrashing about chaotically on stage. "Elemental" updates Little Richards' unhinged delivery for the 4 Loco age with a breakneck pace and blistering guitar riffs. Overall, it's a wild and fun album and is guaranteed to be amazing live.

Come on out and see them blow the roof off Doug Fir Lounge on Saturday, September 3rd. Hell, if you consider the album cover a warning, it might be the last show that log basement ever hosts.

Wilderness of Manitoba - "November"

2011-08-22T20:29:00.000-07:00

I know it's the middle of summer, but that's when I'm most likely to trapse around in the woods and, if my friends were more talented, we would all sing and strum around a campfire like the Wilderness of Manitoba, whose backsides are apparently more impervious to the winter chill than mine. Unfortunately, I don't think any of my friends are capable of the beautiful and hushed harmonies on "November," so I'll just have to settle for seeing the band play at the Mission Theater on Friday, August 26th when they open for the Cloud Cult.

Red Fang - Murder The Mountains (2011)

2011-08-17T12:26:00.006-07:00

Portland based, Red Fang has been a band that I listen to for the past few years. Their first album contained one of my favorite singles from 2009, 'Prehistoric Dog'. Aside from being an awesome song, the video might be the best video ever made. There was a lot of anticipation regarding Murder The Mountains, mostly due to Red Fang being signed to Relapse Records.

After a 2 year break, MtM was released to mixed reviews. Some people I talk to, absolutely freak out for the record. Some people think its just kind of "meh". I think that I am caught in the middle somewhere. The major difference in the 2 albums is production value. MtM is produced so well, and is crushingly heavy. Part of my attraction to this band was their low production value that accompanied their beards, and the seemingly millions of cans of beer they consumed on a daily basis. The new album sounds like a super buzzy Melvins record with hints of other bands like The Sword, Torche, Queens of the Stone Age, and Kyuss sprinkled into songs. I don't really hear a whole lot of unique things going on with the record, but if you are going to sound like any other bands, The Melvins/QOTSA/Kyuss is a pretty fucking rad sound to go for.

The opening song 'Malverde' is a great opening song, that sets the tempo for 10 songs that are heavy as hell. Brian Giles' rants through the song of, "Thats the trick/I can't believe you're falling for it" gets your head banging and your feet tapping. The follow up song, "Wires" is an absolute powerhouse. Starts with galloping guitars reminiscent of Black Sabbath's "Children Of The Grave", then goes into my favorite riffs on the album. Its pretty awesome how this song is so heavy, but still catchy as fuck. "Wires" is hands down, my favorite song on the album. "Hank is Dead", and "Number Thirteen" are the two other faves on the album.

Don't expect to be blown away with a new 'genre-defying' album here, but it is still a great album to put on, and shotgun brews to. I listened to it a ton when it came out, and I still play the record every time I DJ my metal night in San Francisco. Go pick it up, and if you can..... see them live. They absolutely melt your eardrums live.

Mariachi El Bronx - II (2011)

2011-08-16T08:46:00.004-07:00

I first started to listen to The Bronx when they released their album, 'White Drugs'. I loved them instantly, and when they played live, I freaked out. Around 2007 they were asked to release an acoustic song, that they were hesitant to do. They felt as if the whole "Unplugged" thing was played out, and kind of cheesy. Like any good punk, they answered back with fooling around acoustically and releasing "acoustic" song as a mariachi song. It really kicked ass.

From that point on, the band started to experiment with playing mariachi music, and released their 1st mariachi album, 'Mariachi El Bronx'. I fell in love with it, along with everyone else, but for some reason most reviewers felt as if the alter-ego was going to be short lived and burn out. They toured, and played split sets; first their hardcore set, then come back out in their black charo outfits. They would play their set with the authentic acoustic guitars accompanied by a vibrant horn section.

The sophomore album is just as good at the first, but I really think that they improve their music dramatically. It seems as if every good thing from the first album whacked down a shot of tequila and became louder and cooler. Something that was disappointing to me on the first album was that I felt as if a lot of the songs had a 'salsa' feel to them. They were good, but only a select few of the songs were truly 'mariachi music'. The Bronx adapted a norteno style to the new album, and seems to fit so much better. The subject matter of heartbreak, infidelity, and death is offset from music that radiates sunshine.

The emotion that the band exudes is palpable. The first track, '48 Roses' might be my favorite on the album. The song is triumphant, radiant, dynamic, and epic. It encompasses everything that I feel makes mariachi music so great: speed, rhythm, and a wall of strings and horns. Matt Caughthran's vocals are amazing on the album, with so much emphasis on sincerity and emotion that matches the lyrics perfectly. I think that I rewind the track over my favorite line every time the song plays, "So Father forgive my cold shoulder/I just don't have the time to console her/I can fall back in love when I'm older". 'Revolution Girl' is so damn catchy and upbeat that I have trouble driving to the album, due to my insane desire to grab a babe and start twirling her on the roadside. At first I thought the lyrics to 'Norteno Nights' was so cheesy with little bits of Spanish in the chorus, but it has grown on me, and is another song that has made it to the top 5 on the album. Finally, one of the more emotional songs that I relate to, is slowed down and makes me think that I should be dancing with a rose in my mouth. 'Poverty's King' has my favorite line on the album, "Everyone wants to be alone, until they are alone".

When people are surprised about the album being made by a bunch of LA punks, I can't help but see the similarities in the genres of music. It seems almost fitting that a punk band can go and feel at home making mariachi music. Both genres are young men, fed up with their failures at love, life, and progress. Both genres drip with emotion, and are an art form which requires a uniform, and a passion for playing regardless of audience. Mariachi bands tour around playing in small clubs, and play in restaurants in search of a couple of bucks to fill up the tank to get to the next destination.

Everyone should own this album. Period. De nada.

Waters - Out In The Light (2011)

2011-08-16T06:00:00.004-07:00

While Port O’Brien was great, especially the boisterous “I Woke Up Today” and its equally playful video, I love Van Pierszalowski’s new band, Waters even more. It’s quickly becoming one of my most played albums this summer. Decidedly more indie rock than folk, Waters is also louder and feels more emotionally raw. “For The One” (mp3) kicks off the album with a blur of catchy fuzz that just begs to be turned up, as if the guitar was playing through blow out amps. Two of my other favorites on the album similarly embrace the rock n’ roll spirit — “Back To You” is driven by thumping drums and vocals escalating at the chorus, while “Take Me Out To The Coast” incorporates remnants of his old band’s communal sing alongs. However, not all of the album is pushed into the red, it's actually quite balanced. The quiet strumming on “Mickey Mantel” highlights a wonderful yearning chorus. If only all my favorite bands came back this strong after breaking up.

Waters plays at the Branx on Thursday with Mister Heavenly.

WATERS - For The One by cityslang

Thursday's Epic Set of Concerts

2011-08-15T11:00:00.002-07:00

Every once and a while the concert gods like to fuck with me by having a month's worth of awesome shows all on one night. Usually, that means I have to make some tough decisions -- do I go with the old favorites, the new buzz bands I'm digging, or a rock n' roll spectacle?

At first glance, this Thursday appears to be just that type of night. Longtime favorites Hillstomp and the Builders & the Butchers, are playing at the Deschutes Street Fare, along with the new and fantastic Lost Lander. Then on the other side of the river, Waters, another new favorite, are opening for Mister Heavenly at Branx, while the Jon Spencer Blues Explosion play at the Wonder Ballroom.

On this night, the concert gods seem to be feeling particularly mischievous -- staggering the set times just enough to entertain the possibility that I could pull of all three events in one night. Think of it as prep for the nightly MusicFestNW hustle. Either way, there is no way I missing the Street Fare, especially since the $10 entry fee covers my first beer. So the question becomes, can I make catch Waters set and still make it up to the Wonder to see the veteran showmen?

Outside Lands 2011 - Saturday Preview

2011-08-13T12:29:00.001-07:00

There are bands to be seen and fun to be had, get your Outside Lands Festival on.

Saturday, August 13

Again the Sutro stage provides the early entertainment with one of my 2011 favorites, The Vaccines (2:10 - 2:55), kicking off what appears to be a sunny Saturday. The Londoners punk influenced summer-punk leads straight into a set by the danceable STRFKR (3:40 - 4:30).

The rest of the day should be spent posting up at the Lands End stage for rockers Arctic Monkeys (4:45 - 5:45) followed by the thunderous blues-rock duo, The Black Keys (6:15 - 7:25), and finishing off with the ever-epic Muse (8:10 - 9:55).

Unfortunately you will miss The Stone Foxes, Old 97’s, The Roots, OK GO and Girl Talk.

FNBP: Duvel & Laura Cantrell - Kitty Wells Dresses: Songs of the Queen of Country Music

2011-08-12T18:48:00.002-07:00

Laura Cantrell is one of my favorite artists. Period. I've been waiting for a new album of hers for what seems like ages. So, when I heard that she was releasing an album of Kitty Wells covers, I was pretty darn excited. In case you're not familiar with the name, Kitty Wells is the Queen of Country Music, having inspired the likes of Dolly Parton, Loretta Lynn, and Tammy Wynett to name a few. Born in Nashville and married at 18, Wells' songs are irreverent (for the time) and all honky tonk and twang. What Cantrell brings to this collection is her voice of silk and an air of sophistication that somehow doesn't detract at all from the original. Just like Duvel, Cantrell's new album is crisp, light, but full of flavor.

Duvel Belgian Golden Ale is a top contender for my favorite beer. Aside from the dunkel that I drank on top of a mountain at an abbey in Andechs, Germany, I can't think of a more pleasing choice for a warm summer afternoon. It is a light-colored, medium-bodied Belgian with smells of citrus and fruit, but perfectly dry and fizzy. And at 8.5%, it packs a nice kick in the butt -- not unlike Ms. Kitty Wells. There's a strength to the beer and to the album that can't be denied.

If you visit Laura Cantrell's website, you can download a song from the album for free.

Top 10 Parenthood Songs

2011-08-11T10:15:00.002-07:00

My friends, Ashley and Aron, just had a baby boy, so I decided to help them out with their baby blog, Baby Mine, by writing a guest post. While I was tempted to list my top 10 songs my toddler son and I listen to in the morning during our rock n' roll breakfast, I figured not everyone would agree that LMFAO's "Champagne Showers" was a song about parenthood (although it could be about changing diapers). Instead I came up with a list of my favorite songs from the perspective of parents. Since I focused on songs I already loved, I am sure I missed a ton of other good alternatives.

The Middle East - I Want That You Are Always Happy (2011)

2011-08-08T14:21:00.013-07:00

While I Want That You Are Always Happy, is technically The Middle East's first full length album, this by no means reflects their maturity as musicians. A blending of genres defines The Middle East's sound, from the more folky Fleet Foxes tones in "Months" or "Ninth Ave Reverie," to an ambient instrumental in "Sydney to Newcastle," to a meditative hymn in "Mount Morgan," to a more familiar indie rock sound in "Jesus Came to My Birthday Party." A plaintive tone is struck from the beginning and continued throughout the album, starting eerie and introspective in "Black Death 1349" and "My Grandma Was Pearl Hall." Though mixing genres can easily frustrate, The Middle East never strays too far from its folk foundation — well formed harmonies and instrumentation creates an emotional and personal album. Less upbeat than fellow Australians, Boy and Bear, the album has its share of faster tempo tracks to balance out the album. Check out "Jesus Came to My Birthday Party," "Land of The Bloody Unknown" and "Hunger Song."

Outside Lands 2011 - Friday Preview

2011-08-07T22:01:00.003-07:00

Welcome back for the Second Annual Outside Lands Preview. As we have discussed before, getting the most out of a multi-day music and arts festival can be a tricky task for the unacquainted. It is essential to plan ahead and schedule out each day so you can see who you want to see and do what you want to do without getting bogged down by the crowds, exhaustion and the booze. Again, Awmercy and I have attempted to make the day as easy as possible for you. This is, of course, written from our perspective however. Good luck.

Friday, August 12

Friday is by far the easiest day to organize. In addition to the crowds always being more manageable, the lineup at one stage in particular melds together nicely. The Sutro stage is where we would recommend setting up camp for the bulk of the afternoon.

Release The Sunbird (12:00 - 12:40) - You can take the boy outta the Rogue Wave, but you can't take the Rogue Wave outta the boy. Zach Rogue, former frontman and namesake of Rogue Wave, moved on to start a new band called Release the Sunbird, and, well, it sounds very similar to Rogue Wave. Perhaps a bit more folky and acoustic, the recently release album is very good. Despite the newness of the band, I have no doubts that they will open the weekend like pros. Check out some recently released tunes here & here.

The Joy Formidable (1:10 - 1:55) - Get ready to rock with this catchy North Wales trio. This band was meant to be played loud and I'm sure translates well to the outdoor expanse of Golden Gate Park. Should be a fun set. Check out a killer video here.

Phantogram (2:25 - 3:10) - More heavy bass-lines and sexy female vocals for those who felt a 45 minute set from The Joy Formidable just wasn't enough. Electro tunes and sultry vocals will have you swaying on your blanket. Personally, I think this is smaller venue music, but that's just me. Video it up here.

Foster The People (3:40 - 4:30) - By now the Sutro stage area should be heavily packed with men in tight jeans and woman with thick bushy bangs. This will make for a pleasant atmosphere to dance it out to a band that is on fire right now with their catchy electo-dance beats, care-free vibe and summer jammy jam vocals. Dance it out here.

Ellie Goulding (5:00 - 5:50) - Oh, hey Ellie Goulding is coming on... time to check out the food options and walk around.

Big Boi (6:20 - 7:20) - How can you miss Big Boi? You and I both know this will be awesome.

Following a solid 7+ hours at the Sutro stage, you’ll have half an hour to wander over to the Panhandle Stage for the fantastically beachy, southern California pop artists Best Coast (7:50 - 8:35). Then cap off the first day with The Shins (8:40 - 9:50), as the Panhandle Stage and Twin Peaks stages are just a short jog from each other and hopefully all the slow moving elders will have shipped off to see Phish (we don't do Phish) at the Lands End stage accross the Polo Field.

Unfortunately, you’ll miss some quality acts in Kelley Stoltz, MGMT and The Limosines which will hurt a bit to pass up, but such is the life at a music festival.

Various Artists on Voodoo Rhythm Records - Records to Ruin Any Party (2011)

2011-08-03T19:47:00.004-07:00

One of new favorite record labels is Voodoo Rhythm Records. I have posted about great bands such as King Automatic, and King Khan & the Shrines, all of which are signed to Voodoo. They have recently come out with a compilation, 'Records to Ruin Any Party' which features some of their up and coming musicians. My favorite is the third album, Volume three. Voodoo Rhythm seems to sign bands that play the Blues, Bluegrass, Rock-a-billy, and Garage/Punk Rock. But all of their artists seem to be slightly off, in a good way, like they fell off the back of a gypsy wagon. Bands like 'The Dead Brothers", "Pussywarmers", "Zeno Tornado", and "Hipbone Slim & The Knee-Tremblers" definitely meet the above description. Their Bluegrass is my personal favorite. " Possessed By Paul James" and "Andy Dale Petty" are phenomenal. Petty's guitar plucking reminds me of original delta blues that has taken the next step forward. King Khan had this to say about Petty: "I met Andy Dale Petty in Huntsville, Alabama, he had a magazine in his pocket with all the state train routes in it and was telling me about how he loved to hop trains like the hobos back in the day. He taught me how to run next to a train and hop it, always make sure you can see the spokes in the wheel turning, if you can't then the train is too fast and you might loose a limb or two or your head." I think that best sums up what Andy Dale Petty is all about. My favorite Garage/Blues Rock bands are the "Come N' Go", "Roy and the Devil's Motorcycle", "John Schooley", and the standout band "The Juke Joint Pimps". Their song on the compilation 'Dust My Broom' doesn't do them justice, as it is just okay. But their own albums have tracks that rival the Black Keys. Check out '4 Seasons Love' and their new song 'Delta Trip' which is off their new album. This band kicks ass. The other albums in the compilation volumes I and II are okay, but in my opinion the third one is the one worth buying. Check out "The Super Supers" track name 'Mama Soul' on Volume I, as well as "The Get Lost!" song 'Boogiehut'. Mama Soul sounds like the Duder was playing it in his ride while drinking a White Russian in the Big Lebowski. As far as 'Boogiehut" it's just...it's just...did the Sonics get back together? Cause this song is fucking killer. Check out a sample of the Dead Brothers below, which is a good representation of what Voodoo Rhythm Records is all about.

Paul James - Possessed By Paul James (2007)

2011-08-03T18:41:00.005-07:00

Paul James, or Possessed by Paul James (whichever you prefer, as he goes by both names) is far and away my new favorite blues/bluegrass artist. He is a featured performer on the Voodoo Rhythm Records label, which is how I discovered his beloved talents. Paul's real name is Konrad Wert, and he is from the swamps of Immokalee, Florida (rad). He was raised Mennonite with Amish roots, but don't expect toned down, dispassionate, drab and dreary traditional jams. Paul James is raw, full of gut-wrenched carnal yelps, and it almost seems like he himself is possessed, and that stage name was meant as a warning. The songs are not for the faint of heart. Some are about loosing one's mind like in "Committed," or the taboo feelings regarding a loved one's suicide in "Colorofmybloodynose," and for resentment over people giving up see "No Windows." His songs are about life's perplexity; full of contradiction, rage, and if nothing else, the commitment to being absolutely forthright, consequences be damned. The melody of acustic guitar and banjo strings seems to almost put the listener in a trance. Where I feel like I am becoming one of those people overcome by the holy spirit at some crazy week long baptist revival. Definitely check this guy out, especially my favorite song "Cold and Blind" which is not on the album but can be seen below. Cheers.

FNBP: Damnation Golden Ale & Bon Iver - Bon Iver (2011)

2011-07-29T17:00:00.019-07:00

Both fragile and confident Bon Iver’s Bon Iver is a very solid follow-up to the immensely popular For Emma, Forever Ago and the Blood Bank EP. There is certainly more going on here musically than on his past offerings, with layers of instruments and some harder rocking; however, the music remains stripped down, intimate and emotionally impactful. I can’t count how many times I have sung “never gonna break, never gonna break” while sipping my morning coffee or slipped this album on while reading Cormac McCarthy's tales of savagery and hopelessness. From the album art to the music itself, the album just seems right for early mornings and quiet evenings. The soothing “Towers” is best while reclining into a comfy microfiber couch, with “Holocene” and “Calgary” coming in a close second place tie. As far as I’m concerned, the only blemish on Justin Vernon’s record is being associated with the New Moon Soundtrack, for which he was likely pleasantly rewarded, but I'm willing to forgive him for such a move when I am soaking up this album with a tall, cool Damnation in my hand.

Russian River Brewing Co.’s Damnation Golden Ale out of the 750mL cork finished bottle provides the perfect accompaniment to Vernon's sleepy falsetto and rustic instrumentation. Damnation is a smooth, but earthy beer with plenty of kick and a mouthful of flavor. It is a quintessential backwoods log-cabin beer (albeit a Belgian log-cabin) that could be consumed out of an old coffee mug or a tin cup, with the thick creamy head sloshing over into your bowl of waterzooi. The cork bottle is elegant much like a fine champagne, but the name and label make it clear that this is not a beer to be trifled with. Much like Bon Iver, it is a real strong effort for a wide range of occasions that I would certainly recommend to folks who haven't tried it yet.

Portugal. The Man - In The Mountain In The Cloud (2011)

2011-07-29T11:18:00.001-07:00

In The Mountain In The Clouds opens with the super catchy “So American” -- a blast of falsetto driven psychedelic rock n’ roll announcing that Portugal. The Man is back. They may now be on Atlantic Records, after stints with Equal Vision and Fearless Records, but the major label hasn’t disrupted the quality of their songwriting that made them a QuickCrit favorite. As with all of their recent albums, their sound continues to evolve. In The Mountain is not as sexy or funky as last year’s American Ghetto, ditching its glitchy electronic buzz and replacing the psychedelic soul of the Satanic Satanist, with cosmic glam. It all makes for even greater sonic grandeur on songs like the anthemic “Got It All (This Can't Be Living Now)" or the soaring “Everything You See (Kids Count Hallelujahs).” Guitars swirl and ring while the vocals alter pitch and pace. Lyrically, singer/guitarist John Gourley is still grappling with life in 21st century America. He seems to accept that we may all be fucked, but that’s just fate, and we might as well “be cool with it.” The songs build, crash and flow together nicely, closing with the "Sleep Forever", which escalates slowly into a wonderfully epic ballad -- a perfect closer to a fantastic album.

The Features - Wilderness (2011)

2011-07-27T15:37:00.001-07:00

Simply put, The Features’ Wilderness is a fantastic rock n’ roll album. One of the best that I’ve heard all year. The standout single "Rambo" kicks off with cinematic humming before launching into a charging rhythm and swirling keyboard, the song marching forward over the cries of singer Matt Pelham. The darker “Kids” rides a 70s metal bass line and kick drum through a cloud of heavy riffs. The album is solid from start to finish, subtly shifting from psychedelic pop to prog to garage rock, often multiple times within a song. If it wasn’t clear from the album’s diverse (if classic) influences, the sweet and steady “Fats Domino” is the ballad for a record collector: “You can have everything, except my rock n’ roll, my love / Put down Fats Domino.” It’s right up there with Ryan Adam’s “Come Pick Me Up” in terms of capturing the state of a relationship relative to a mans’ vinyl.

You can bet I'll be there when they play at Bunk Bar on September 17th.