STARK PRESENTS EZRA FURMAN & THE HARPOONS TONIGHT! @ PIANO'S

Stark Online Interview with Ezra Furman and the Harpoons from Adam Holz on Vimeo.

[mp3] Ezra Furman & The Harpoons - "Halloween Snow"

Ezra Furman & The Harpoons -- "We Should Fight"

Stark will be presenting Ezra Furman & The Harpoon's last show of their Piano's residency TONIGHT. Showtime: 10 p.m. In preparation, Stark wanted to talk with Ezra, in person this time, and we did. Oh, how we did. REPOST!

New Blue Roses MP3

[mp3] Blue Roses: "Doubtful Comforts"

Just after posting on Blue Roses a few days ago, we get another mp3 from her self-titled debut that comes out July 21 on XL. People have been split on this record so far, Pop Tarts Suck Toasted doesn't like it, while Stereogum just labeled them a band to watch. We come down somewhere in the middle so far; it's certainly lovely on first spins, but the truth will lie in it's staying power.

In other Beggars Group news...

[mp3] Discovery: "Orange Shirt"

The Ra Ra Riot, Vampire Weekend collab project Discovery have released their debut LP LP (yeahhhh) a week early via AmieStreet.com to benefit the charity Oxfam America which is "an international relief and development organization that creates lasting solutions to poverty, hunger, and injustice. Together with individuals and local groups in more than 100 countries, Oxfam saves lives, helps people overcome poverty, and fights for social justice."

Critics are divided on this record -- some love it, some have purged it from their computers already. It's still on our iPods, but not on the new release playlist... we haven't given up yet, but we're close. It's the autotune.

Tallest Man on Earth Takes Away

Tallest Man on Earth - The Gardener - A Take Away Show from La Blogotheque on Vimeo.

Filmed by One Take New York in conjunction with Vincent Moon & Co's La Blogotheque, longtime Stark favorite The Tallest Man on Earth, offers "The Gardener." Almost overpowering, yet tenderly warming, Sweden's Kristian Matsson sits inside a quaint, highly eclectic instrument shop, and performs; he is a performer, for those who have had the pleasure of seeing him live. We were introduced to Matsson during his first trip across the pond and we have been subscribers ever since. See Stark coverage of all things Tallest here, here, here and so much more.

Vibe Magazine Closing

More bad news for publicists, musicians and journalists today as Daily Finance reports that "editor in chief Danyel Smith and publisher Edgar Hernandez confirmed" that Vibe magazine will be ceasing publication. No further details at this point, except that Kanye's beard still looks gray. This is all some Benjamin Button's shit. (VIA)

New Crocodiles Video - "Summer of Hate"

Crocodiles - Summer of Hate from christin turner on Vimeo.

[MP3] "Neon Jesus"
[MP3] "Summer of Hate"

Crocodiles' newly released title-track video is no-fi and vertigo inducing; yet, this album still rocks-socks on our pods and makes us "want to kill" sometimes. Summer of Hate, which dropped on 4/28 via Fat Possum, is a dark horse...wait, really dark horse, candidate for top 10 or 20 lists of '09. But until that day, they are proving their break out-band-status on the indie scene --there is still a quickly beating pulse here. Keep your finger on it.
VIA - FADER

Llamas Are The Move

Such a great time to be a llama, you guys. There's no denying that the animal is in the midst of a serious career renaissance, after falling out of the public eye in recent years. In the new Dirty Projectors video for "Stillness Is The Move," which is scientifically proven to be the jam of the year, lead Projector and part-time herder Dave Longstreth has some serious one-on-one time with a llama while his female bandmates get their Destiny's Child on in a field. Meanwhile, today marks the release of Wilco's long-awaited seventh disc, Wilco (the album), whose cover artwork prominently features a llama in a birthday hat. Or is it a camel? Shit, we can never tell the difference. Anyway, it's also scientifically proven that all even-toed ungulates are serious indie snobs, so today is probably the best day for them, know what I mean? Enjoy it. Video via P4K TV.

Fanfarlo Cover Bonnie Prince Billy

[mp3] Fanfarlo: "Luna"

While we're not quite ready to come out with such a bold statement (we've only had it for a week) folks around the blogosphere are hailing Fanfarlo's Reservoir as one of the top records of the year. From our first few listens, we can at least concur that it's a damn fine piece of musicianship and a really solid record. Blending elements of Bon Iver, and the organic nature of Beirut, Fanfarlo are shooting on a straight course to success. The band is well aware of the '09 model that the more content you release, the better it is for your band (given you're in a good band). They have recorded several DIY videos, that show the band's talent and enjoyment for playing their (and others) songs. Above is a cover of Bonnie Price Billy's gem, "A Minor Place." Reservoir is only a dollar on their website right now, and is available with exclusive tracks. Someone should tell Bob Lefsetz about these folks, because clearly they know what it takes to be a band in 2009.

Wavves: MP3 + New Video + Tour Dates

Wavves "No Hope Kids" from Pete Ohs on Vimeo.

[MP3]
Wavves - "So Bored"

Here's to Wavves, hopefully turning over a new leaf, post-Primavera meltdown. The above video for "No Hope Kids" was shot by Pete Ohs who has worked with the likes of Arcade Fire, Au Revior Simone, and the Fiery Furnaces. In addition to the mp3 and video, Wavves has announced three US tour dates, one of which is at Bowery Ballroom July 15. See for yourself below. The man is still generating buzz and press. Bands take note: start freaking out more often.

07/15 New York, NY Bowery Ballroom*
07/18 Chicago, IL Pitchfork Fest
08/28 San Diego, CA Street Scene

* = w/ Woods, Real Estate

Lee Fields & The Expressions

[MP3] Lee Fields & The Expressions - "Comes and Goes"

In conjunction with #musicmonday, us Starkians would like to bring some soul into your life. Introducing, Lee Fields, who some have hailed as the "James Brown of the modern generation." Fields & Co. released their newest record, My World, earlier this June on the fantastic Truth and Soul record label. There is no denying Fields' uncanny ability to get up with the get down, leaving little to question about his R&B soul. Truth and Soul has a great selection of artists which are worth checking out -- Lee Fields just happens to be our current favorite.

Tour Alert: Gang Gang Dance

[MP3] Gang Gang Dance - "House Jam"

Still riding the successes of their 2008 release, Saint Dymphna, Gang Gang are taking their tribal, electro-dance music to various regions of the US, including a date at Lollapalooza.

Check out US tour dates after the jump.

August 2nd at Pearl Street Nightclub in Northampton, MA
August 3rd at Bug Jar in Rochester, NY (with Hex Message)
August 4th at Kung Fu Necktie in Philadelphia, PA (with Hex Message)
August 5th at Ottobar in Baltimore, MD
August 6th at Circus in Columbus, OH (with Hex Message)
August 7th at Magic Stick in Detroit, MI (with Hex Message)
August 9th at Lollapalooza in Chicago, IL
August 28th at Troubadour in Los Angeles, CA
August 30th at Rickshaw Shop in San Francisco, CA
September 2nd at Depot in Arcata, CA (with Extra Golden)
September 3rd at The Works at Washington High School in Portland, OR
September 4th at Biltmore Cabaret in Vancouver, BC
September 5th at Bumbershoot Festival in Seattle, WA

I Wanna Be Where You Are mp3

[mp3] Erykah Badu & The Roots: "I Wanna Be Where You Are"

Despite our love for MJ, we've largely stayed out of the fray when it comes to posting on his untimely death. Yet, this cover of "I Wanna Be Where You Are" recorded by the Roots and Erykah Badu last week is too good not to share with you. So, if you're feeling down about the particularly tragic week last week, and the fact that it's Monday, throw this track on and kick back. The original version can be found on Jackson's Got To Be There debut album.
(via GVB via questlove's twitter)

STARK PRESENTS: EZRA FURMAN & THE HARPOONS, JUNE 30 @ PIANO'S

Stark Online Interview with Ezra Furman and the Harpoons from Adam Holz on Vimeo.

[mp3] Ezra Furman & The Harpoons - "Halloween Snow"

[mp3] Ezra Furman & The Harpoons - "We Should Fight"

Stark will be presenting Ezra Furman & The Harpoon's last show of their Piano's residency June 30. Showtime: 10 p.m. In preparation, Stark wanted to talk with Ezra, in person this time, and we did. Oh, how we did.

Stark had the chance to sit down with Ezra Furman and Harpoon's drummer Adam Abrutyn at Hi Fi in NYC's East Village. Topics of conversation included, New York City audiences, women, geese, a trip to Barcelona for the Primavera Music Fest (hence Spanish women,) new city apprehensions and more. Ezra is...well... a character in-and-of himself. Every statement made seems like a marathon as he plunges the depths of his consciousness for the best possible answer. He keeps you on your toes as you never know where the conversation will head next, or what will be said; Ezra's music carries the same mysteriously spontaneous quality. You never know which Ezra you are going to get from night-to-night, which makes it worth attending his concerts every time. So join us, Ezra, and the Harpoons on June 30 as the band finishes off their fourth Piano's show as part of their residency.

Special, special thanks to Adam Holz who filmed, edited and generally kicked video-ass for us, as you can see per the video above.

See you there!

TONIGHT: STARK AND AQUARIUM DRUNKARD PRESENT THE ROADSIDE GRAVES AT PIANOS

TONIGHT

THE ROADSIDE GRAVES
PIANOS: NY, NY
Stanton & Ludlow St.

[mp3] Roadside Graves: "Ruby"
[mp3] Roadside Graves "Far and Wide"
[mp3] Roadside Graves "Take a Train"

We're thrilled to join Aquarium Drunkard in presenting one of the best new bands to come out of New Jersey in the past several years, The Roadside Graves, as they celebrate the release of their third record My Son's Home out now on Autumn Tone Records. The band is in the middle of a tour which found them sharing the stage recently with another Stark fave Lucero. Their live show is not to be missed. We've been dedicated followers of this band since they released their fantastic and grossly overlooked last record No One Will Know Where You've Been. Interweaving elements of The Band, John Prine, Townes Van Zandt and a dose of Bruce Springsteen, The Roadside Graves manage to produce a unique and coherent sound, pulsing with the energy of their large ensemble and anchored by the gritty and melodic vocals of lead singer John Gleason. My Son's Home is an 18-song comprehensive tour of quality American music. Deftly moving from folk, to rock, to back-porch country, The Roadside Graves have produced one of the best roots-Americana records of the past five years, hands down. Click after the jump to see the full Piano's bill and the rest of The Roadside Graves' tour dates. It's going to be amazing tonight. We can't wait. Email us if you want to say hi - we'll buy you a beer.*

*probably not, but we'll drink one with you.

PIANOS
9pm Blair
10pm Gunfight!
11pm Roadside Graves
12am The Loom
1am Afterparty at Piano's with R.E.Y. as guest DJ

Jul 3 2009 Union Hall/opening for Chuck Mead Park Slope/Brooklyn, New York
Jul 18 2009 Lampost Jersey City, New Jersey
Jul 25 2009 Trash Bar w/ Chainsaw Trio, Any Day Parade Brooklyn, New York
Jul 28 2009 summer tour begins WEST COAST and back
Aug 29 2009 The Court Tavern New Brunswick, New Jersey
Sep 12 2009 1Monolith Festival Red Rocks, Colorado
Sep 19 2009 Let it Roll Music Festival Ghent, New York

New Spoon: "Got Nuffin" EP

It's been quite the big 12 hours in the blog realm, what with keeping up with the MJ news n all, and this little bit of information slipped past our radar: Spoon is releasing an EP next Tuesday (6/30) called Got Nuffin. It's currently available to listen to at Amazon. We're spinning it right now, and well, it sounds like Spoon. It's little bit more rough and lo-fi than we got on Ga Ga... but that's A-ok with us.

Blue Roses

[mp3] Blue Roses: "I am Leaving"

On an extremely unmotivated and slow-ish day in the blog world, it was nice to get an email from XL about the self-titled debut from England's Blue Roses that comes out on July 21st. Some of our English tipsters mentioned that we should check her out awhile ago in anticipation of her appearance at Glastonbury. So, like the dutiful (lazy) bloggers we are, we waited for an email from her publicist instead of doing the sleuthing on our own. Blue Roses is Yorkshire's Laura Groves, who has recorded the lovely, yet subtly complex, folk songs contained on this album in a variety of locations throughout England. These delicate, self-produced gems travel down the well-worn path of Joanna Newsom-style vocals, yet the instrumental complexities, writing quality and varied instrumentation set what we have heard apart from your typical English songwriter fare. She has no US dates yet, but she's worth putting the time in for.

Late Night Blog Reel

Wilco: "You Never Know" - Conan
St. Vincent: "Marrow" - Letterman
Bat For Lashes: "Daniel" - Kimmel











After the jump.

Tanlines Remix Glasser's "Apply"

[mp3] Glasser: "Apply (Tanlines Remix)"
[mp3] Tanlines: "New Flowers"

We've been meaning to post on this fantastic electro/dance/production duo out of Brooklyn for a bit now. We caught Tanlines opening for Zizek awhile back, and they certainly caught our attention. The duo ( Jesse Cohen from Professor Murder, and Eric Emm of Storm & Stress) have a 12" New Flowers out now on Young Turks/XL and have been making some waves in the Brooklyn/NY area on the back of various remixes (Telepathe's "Chrome's On It") and live show. We saw them at Santos and their sound more than filled the large room, yet, we would be super psyched to see them in a smaller space. Tanlines also use their own Youtube channel to debut new material in visual form, which we're surprised more bands don't do. Here is their kickass remix of the highly remixable Glasser single "Apply." Certainly a band to watch over the summer. You can purchase New Flowers on their myspace.

New Avett Brothers mp3

[mp3] Avett Brothers: "I and Love and You"

The Avett Brothers just released the title track from their up-coming Rick Rubin produced Columbia debut, I and Love and You which is available for you above. The album is due out on Columbia Sept. 29, a month that is gearing up to be quite boisterous, rollicking and heavily saturated by great music. Go forth and download.
VIA

Tour dates exist after the jump.

THE AVETT BROTHERS
headline dates
6/23/2009 LEXINGTON, KY KENTUCKY THEATRE
6/25/2009 ST. LOUIS, MO THE PAGEANT
6/26/2009 DES MOINES, IA HOYT SHERMAN THEATER
6/27/2009 APPLE VALLEY , MN MINNESOTA ZOO
6/28/2009 CHICAGO, IL HOUSE OF BLUES
7/2/2009 DETROIT, MI COMERICA CITYFEST
7/9/2009 NORFOLK, VA HARRISON OPERA HOUSE
7/10/2009 RICHMOND, VA THE NATIONAL
7/11/2009 ROANOKE-LYNCHBURG, VA ROANOKE CIVIC CENTER - PERFORMING ARTS THEATRE
7/12/2009 LOUISVILLE, KY FORECASTLE FESTIVAL
7/16/2009 SAINT AUGUSTINE, FL CROSS & SWORD AMPHITHEATER OF SAINT AUGUSTINE
7/17/2009 ORLANDO, FL HOUSE OF BLUES
7/18/2009 TAMPA, FL THE CUBAN CLUB
7/19/2009 FORT LAUDERDALE, FL PARKER PLAYHOUSE, THEATRE
7/24/2009 N. MYRTLE BCH, SC HOUSE OF BLUES
7/25/2009 N. MYRTLE BCH, SC HOUSE OF BLUES
7/30/2009 BUFFALO, NY THURSDAY AT THE SQUARE
7/31/2009 SYRACUSE, NY WESTCOTT THEATER
8/1/2009 NEWPORT, RI FOLK AT FIFTY
8/2/2009 NORTHAMPTON, MA CALVIN THEATER
8/4/2009 DEWEY BEACH, DE BOTTLE AND CORK
8/8/2009 CHARLOTTE, NC BOJANGLES' COLISEUM (FORMERLY CRICKET ARENA)
8/14/2009 OZARK, AR MULBERRY MOUNTAIN HARVEST MUSIC
8/15/2009 KANSAS CITY, MO CROSSROADS KC
8/16/2009 OMAHA, NE SOKOL AUDITORIUM
8/19/2009 TELLURIDE, CO SUNSET CONCERT SERIES
8/21/2009 DENVER, CO BOULDER THEATER
8/22/2009 DENVER, CO OGDEN THEATRE
8/25/2009 SALT LAKE CITY, UT RED BUTTE GARDEN
8/26/2009 BOISE, ID KNITTING FACTORY CONCERT HOUSE

Collection of Colonies of Bees + Bon Iver = Volcano Choir

[mp3] Bon Iver "Blood Bank"

Monikers aside, Justin Vernon (Bon Iver) joins forces with Jon Mueller, Chris Rosenau, Jim Schoenecker, Daniel Spack and Thomas Wincek (Collection of Colonies of Bees)* to create the uber-Wisconsin musical collective Volcano Choir. The end result of this collaboration, a debut album titled, Unmap, which releases via Jagjaguwar on Sept. 22 (US) and Sept. 21 (UK)

See the tracklist after the jump.
*Shout out to Stark Contributor Mike Bailey


Unmap:
1. Husks and Shells
2. Seeplymouth
3. Island, IS
4. Dote
5. And Gather
6. Mbira in the Morass
7. Cool Knowledge
8. Still
9. Youlogy

New Mount Eerie mp3

[mp3] Mount Eerie: "Stone's Ode"

We wrote a bit ago about our excitement for the new Mount Eerie record Wind's Poem (out 8/18 on P.W. Elverum & Sun). Today, we get the first listen to a track from the new record. Of course, it's dark and as Stereogum points out, this album seems to be coming more from a Microphones style of music rather than the hushed approach of leader Phil Elverum's last effort Lost Wisdom. We'll let Phil sum up things himself:

Basically the idea with Wind's Poem is that this crazy beautiful force of erosion and destruction (wind) constantly wraps around the world and permeates our lives, and is occasionally audible, blowing through buildings and branches. It is an invisible river, and it sings/says poems in a mystery language. So, the counterpart to wind must be "stone" (meaning all solid tangible things) and why shouldn't "stone" sing a hidden song too? So, "Stone's Ode" is about this. It's about the interplay between these two things: shape vs. destroyer of shape. It could also be heard as "person vs. mysterious mortality," or "a sense of stability vs. inevitable impending chaos."

(VIA)

Anni Rossi "The West Coast"

[mp3] Anni Rossi "Ecology"

We saw Anni Rossi open for Camera Obscura a few months back, and her 4AD album Rockwell has survived numerous iPod purges since making it's first appearance in early '09. Hopefully, the previous comment doesn't sound trite - Rockwell is a slow grower, but Rossi's voice and expert viola playing give the album staying power, and in this over-saturated market, the true test of an artist has become their sustainability over the course of a year or more. Rossi is a 23 year old from Minnesota, now living in Chicago. She's delivers her songs in tight packages on stage and plays her viola with agression, passion and chops (she's classically trained (of course)). Dig her video above for "The West Coast" directed by Rollin Hunt. (VIA)

Dodos Cover Art + Tour Dates + Tracklist

As you probably know, The Dodos are preparing to release their sophomore follow-up to the fantastic debut LP Visiter, which graced a few Top 50 lists in 2008. Their new record, Time to Die drops on Sept. 15 via Frenchkiss. Check out the new cover art above. Looking forward to it.

See tour dates and tracklist after the jump.

Dodos Tourdates With Ruby Suns:
08/8 Los Angeles, CA - The Getty Museum *
08/14 Seattle, WA - KEXP Mural Amphitheater Summer Series *
08/28 San Francisco, CA - Outside Lands Music Festival
09/26 Big Sur, CA - Henry Miller Library
09/27 Los Angeles, CA - El Rey Theatre
09/28 San Diego, CA - Casbah
09/29 Tucson, AZ - Club Congress
09/30 Phoenix, AZ - Modified
10/2 Dallas, TX - House of Blues-Pontiac Garage
10/3 Houston, TX - The Orange Show
10/4 Austin, TX - Austin City Limits Festival
10/6 Tallahassee, FL - Club Downunder
10/7 Atlanta, GA - The Earl
10/8 Asheville, NC - Grey Eagle
10/9 Washington DC - Rock and Roll Hotel
10/10 Baltimore, MD - Talking Head
10/12 Philadelphia, PA - First Unitarian Church
10/13 Brooklyn, NY - Music Hall of Williamsburg
10/14 New York, NY - Bowery Ballroom
10/15 Cambridge, MA - Middle East Downstairs
10/16 Montreal, QC - La Sala Rossa
10/17 Toronto, ON - Lee's Palace
10/19 Chicago, IL - Bottom Lounge
10/20 St. Paul, MN - Turf Club
10/22 Denver, CO - Bluebird Theater
10/24 Boise, ID - Neurolux
10/25 Portland, OR - Aladdin Theatre
10/26 Vancouver, BC - The Biltmore Cabaret
* No Ruby Suns

Tracklist For The Dodos’ Time To Die:

01 Small Deaths
02 Longform
03 Fables
04 The Strums
05 This Is A Business
06 Two Medicines
07 Troll Nacht
08 Acorn Factory
09 Time To Die

Ezra Furman Digs Darlings, Now So Do We

[mp3] Darlings - "If This Is Love"
[mp3] Darlings - "Teenage Girl"

Not Those Darlin's, but Darlings.

We sat down with Ezra Furman and bandmate Adam Abrutyn the other night at Hi Fi in the East Village. While there for a video interview (footage and explaination to come) Ezra spoke about a local NY band, Darlings. We just happened to cross paths with a press release on this vamped-up, fuzzy-pop-rock trio who are gearing up to release their debut full-length, Yeah I Know dropping Aug. 11 on Famous Class. This is music you can sink your teeth into. Ezra felt the same way, championing the band by asking them to open for him at the first show of his Piano's residency. More on that to come! Rock out to THESE Darlings.

Check some local tour dates after the jump.
Upcoming Shows
7.03 NYC @ Webster Hall
7.16 NYC @ Cakeshop w/ Lovvers
7.18 Baltimore, MD @ Talking Head Club w/ Lovvers
7.25 Brooklyn, NY @ The Castle In Hell

Local Discovery: Willy Gantrim

After our fantastic showcase there, Cameo/Lovin' Cup Cafe has become a new favorite hang for some of the Stark staff. Cheap beer, good company and some excellent 'tots make for a good combo. So Sunday night we sauntered over to catch roommate Bella Watt's show, and were stopped in our tracks by Willy Gantrim, who was playing solo acoustic in the front of the cafe. He recalled a cross between Dylan, Deer Tick and Tallest Man on Earth - a potent and awesome combo. Rocking a pseudo-pompadour, Gantrim had a mysterious air about him, and his dusty South Western Americana songs complimented the entire scene perfectly. His songs were excellently crafted and executed in an honest and humble manner. We don't really know what his deal is around the scene at-large right now, except that he plays Lovin' Cup frequently. It was a fantastic discovery on a lazy Sunday night. He sells a 17 song record at his shows, which we haven't fully digested yet, and is playing 3 shows coming up in the Brooklyn/NY area. See his dates and hear samples at his myspace. We want more, now.

Jun 19 2009 Rooftop Show Brooklyn, New York
Jul 03 2009 The Jalopy Theater Brooklyn, New York
Jul 23 2009 Otto’s Shrunken Head Manhattan, New York

The Almighty Defenders

With passports suspended, international status in the air, the Black Lips did what any band looking for a nice recovery would do -- they went to King Khan's house in Germany and chilled out. While we have never seen a famed Khan/Black Lips bill, we can pretty much picture it. Actually, we don't want to picture it. Gross. Yet, the music that results is probably pretty badass. Thereby, we get The Almighty Defenders -- a mix of members of the Black Lips, King Khan, and Mark Sultan (BBQ Show). The music contained is sure to be dirty, soulful, and filled with garage-y goodness. Written over three days in Berlin (during their period of international acclaim) this self-titled debut drops September 22 on VICE.

Girls' "Album" Due Sept. 22

We posted the great video for Girls' newest tune "Hellhole Ratrace" last Friday, and today we get news that their debut full-length Album is due September 22 on True Panther Sounds in conjunction with Matador. While we've only heard the epic single, we're certainly looking forward to hearing the rest of this record. From the Matablog:

Built on the powerful songwriting of Christopher Owens and the ethereal production of Chet “JR” White, Girls recorded Album in a variety of bedrooms and rehearsal studios in their adopted hometown, San Francisco. The resulting 12 tracks are the perfect San Francisco summer record, evoking a narcotic, sunny afternoon in Dolores Park, yet promising the eventual hangover of summer’s departure. Album is a redemptive song-cycle about the various characters and desires that color Christopher Owens’s life. Described by the band as “honest, loose, ethereal, obnoxious and perfect,” it is a sincere tribute to the majesty of great pop music and the healing power of rock and roll.

Bonfires on the Heath

Fall is still shaping up nicely as we got the announcement today about the new Clientele record Bonfires on the Heath being released October 6th on Merge. We loved their last record God Save the Clientele. Hoping for continued success here. The Clientele are at MHOW on July 19th. Tracklist after the jump. Quoth the PR:

Bonfires On The Heath is in a sense a return to the Clientele's roots; the dreamlike suburban landscapes first encountered in the early singles, their trippy sense of menace stronger now. Back in London, they've drawn on older traditions of English folk, which exist here side by side with the band's more familiar bossa and pop elements. Mel Draisey's contributions on piano and violin add beautifully to MacLean's timeless, eerie songs.

Bonfires On The Heath Track List

1. I Wonder Who We Are
2. Bonfires On The Heath
3. Harvest Time
4. Never Anyone But You
5. Jennifer & Julia
6. Sketch
7. Tonight
8. Share The Night
9. I Know I'll See Your Face
10. Never Saw Them Before
11. Graven Wood
12. Walking In The Park

Those Darlins Debut mp3

[mp3] Those Darlins "Red Light Love"

Needless to say, it's been a tenuous relationship between Stark and Those Darlins. Somewhere along the way during the past year though, we came around to their live show, and after spending the weekend with their new self-titled record that drops this Tuesday (vinyl only) on Thirty Tigers, we're legit converts. It's filled with enthusiasm, passion and a punk rock ethos -- all backed by quality songs that channel an earlier era of country music before the dubious prefix "alt" ever became attached. So here's the first single "Red Light Love," the lead track on the record. This song will show what the fuss is all about ; it's catchy, it has the Darlin's trademark Murfreesboro, TN swagger and demonstrates the power of a tambourine when it's juiced in the mix. Enjoy. Those Darlins hit New York on July 9 and 10 and play their vinyl -release show with the Black Lips this Tuesday in Nashville.

Friday Blog Reel

It's Friday. Watch these. See you out there. 

Girls: "Hellhole Rat Race"

Sigur Ros: "Inní Mér Syngur Vitleysingur"

Simian Mobile Disco: "The Audacity of Huge"

Elizabeth and the Catapult: "Taller Children"

Elizabeth & The Catapult :: TALLER CHILDREN

The Ultimate Mood Enhancer

[mp3] Woods: "To Clean"

Um. So, yeah. Continuing with the summer mood enhancer theme, is this pretty much amazing festival coming 4th of July weekend in New York. Holidays in the city are usually huge let downs, but the quality of this Woodsist/Captured Tracks showcase is too much to even list in one blog post. How big a year are THOSE guys having? It includes: Woods, Blank Dogs, Crystal Stilts, Kurt Vile, Vivian Girls, Thee Oh Sees, Dum Dum Girls, Ganglians, The Mayfair Set, Real Estate and much more. See after the jump for all of the bands and details, and yes, they really are all playing in one place. Tickets are on sale now, so hurry up. We'll see you there.

Full line-up:

Friday July 3rd @ 979 BROADWAY BACKYARD

9:45pm : CRYSTAL STILTS
9:00pm :: Blank Dogs
8:15pm ::: Psychedelic Horseshit
7:30pm :::: caUSE co-MOTION!
6:45pm ::::: the Mayfair Set
6:15pm :::::: Gary War
5:45pm ::::::: Little Girls
5:15pm :::::::: Kid Romance
4:45pm ::::::::: Beachniks
4:15pm :::::::::: the Gutsies
Saturday July 4th @ 979 BROADWAY BACKYARD

9:45pm : THEE OH SEES
9:00pm :: VIVIAN GIRLS
8:15pm ::: Kurt Vile
7:30pm :::: Woods
6:45pm ::::: Tyvek
6:00pm :::::: Dum Dum Girls
5:15pm ::::::: the Fresh & Onlys
4:30pm :::::::: Brilliant Colors
3:45pm ::::::::: Ganglians
3:15pm :::::::::: the Great Excape -- reunion, pre-Home Blitz
2:45pm ::::::::::: the Beets
2:15pm :::::::::::: Real Estate
1:45pm ::::::::::::: German Measles
1:15pm :::::::::::::: Beach Fossils

979 BROADWAY BACKYARD
979 Broadway btwn Myrtle Ave & Ditmars St Bushwick, Brooklyn
JMZ-Myrtle, L-Jefferson, G-Myrtle-Willoughby DOORS -4PM- $15 all ages
RAIN OR SHINE

ADVANCE TICKETS ARE NOW AVAILABLE: $25 FOR 2-DAY PASS PLUS $2 SERVICE FEE. SINGLE DAY TICKETS WILL BE AVAILABLE AT THE DOOR ONLY, FOR $15.

Cocosuma Land in US

[mp3] Cocosuma - "Charlotte's On Fire"

Australians watch Ferris Buehler’s Day Off too. Especially the emerging Brit-garage-pop-style, Cocosuma who named their newest record We'll Drive Home Backwards. The album drops on Minty Fresh in mid-August. In reference to the cherry-red Ferrari, Buehler & Co. decide to parade around Chicago and ultimately smash through the garage window, Cocosuma decided to take some miles off too. Their US debut comes on the back of previously successful LPs (three to be exact) that have garnered praise and attention in regions of France. Their highly UK- influenced, underground pop-rock is reminiscent to Pains of Being Pure at Heart, Poni Hoax and Fanfarlo posted yesterday. It's Friday and I like that.

Only Summer Today

Andrew Gombert/European Pressphoto Agency

After getting rained out at the US Open yesterday at Bethpage Black (go screw yourself USGA), we're officially only listening to good summer music today. So get ready.

[mp3] Summer Cats: "Hey You"

So here is the first installment of such. Luckily the band is actually called Summer Cats and they just got signed to Slumberland, who has risen to fame on the back of the success that Pains of Being Pure at Heart have had this year. Summer Cats are from Australia and play a sort of 60's garage pop, complete with buoyant basslines, distorted keyboards and super catchy vocals from Scott Stevens (not that Scott Stevens). Their debut album Songs for Tuesdays comes out July 14th and will absolutely help you to break out of the funk that this June weather has caused. See track listing and video after the jump.



Summer Cats
Songs For Tuesdays
(Slumberland)
Street date: July 14, 2009

1. Let's Go!
2. Hey You
3. Super
4. Fulton Gurls
5. In June
6. Wild Rice
7. Christopher Wren
8. Maybe Pile
9. Lonely Planet
10. Camel Cords
11. Waking Up
12. St. Tropez
13. Paperweight

More New Music: Fanfarlo

[mp3] Fanfarlo: "Luna"

We've had it from several reputable sources that this new Fanfarlo record is "actually, kind of fucking amazing." That's really all it takes for word of mouth to spread. The one song we heard is pretty damn excellent, so it's good to know that the album delivers on the promise. We should be getting a full listen in soon. Currently unsigned, London based Fanfarlo's debut album Reservoir, is being made available for just $1.00 from June 8 until July 4 from the band’s own website www.fanfarlo.com. Available to download worldwide, this deal also includes four exclusive bonus tracks, not on the record. More to come on this band for sure. Dig them playing in a shed after the jump. We like sheds. 

New For You - Ganglians

[mp3] Ganglians - "Lost Words"

Ganglians are from Sacramento. Hmm. OK.

Offering, euphoric tropical jams, Ganglians summon their inner Beach Boys with windy harmonies, sunny-day acoustic strums, and beach-chair loungin' group choruses. Too sweet for you? Forget about it. Their debut LP, Monster Head Room is out now on Woodsist. Get your psychedelic, musically-induced tan on now brah.

Give it a try. Its 3:45 on Hump Day.

Harlem Signs to Matador!

[mp3] Harlem: "South of France"

Some (more) really great news. One of our favorite new-ish bands out of Austin, TX., Harlem, just inked a multi-record deal with Matador as reported on the (bitchin') Matablog and GVB who has been a long-time champion of the kick-ass garage rock three-piece. Congrats all around! New record coming in 2010. Free Drugs is out now and freaking amazing. (We stole Matador's photo because it's awesome).

New Dodos!

[mp3] Dodos: "Walking"

Great news folks. Last year The Dodos killed us with their Frenchkiss debut Visiter. Not only was it organic and melodic, it was driving and passionate, melding folk and country with floor-tom pounding and cymbal-bashing rock. This morning we saw that they have their follow-up album Time to Die coming out 9/15 again on Frenchkiss. Great news indeed. For this outing they enlisted ace producer Phil EK (Built To Spill, Fleet Foxes, The Shins) and a 21-year-old, classically-trained vibraphone player named Keaton Snyder. Sure. Lookin forward to September more and more.

Time To Die:
1. Small Deaths
2. Longform
3. Fables
4. The Strums
5. This Is A Business
6. Two Medicines
7. Troll Nacht
8. Acorn Factory
9. Time To Die

Photo VIA

Tour Alert: Pains of Being Pure at Heart

[mp3] Pains of Being Pure at Hear - "Young Adult Friction"

Well, it has been, and continues to be, a big year for these Brooklynites. Now set to tour behind their fantastic self-titled release, Pains are bringing their noise-pop-rock to your front door, or city. Check out the video and MP3 for "Young Adult Friction" above and check out their Fall tour dates after the jump.

THE PAINS OF BEING PURE AT HEART

Jun 18 2009 Cake Shop New York, New York #
July 10 2009 South Street Seaport New York, New York % (FREE)
July 18 2009 Pitchfork Fest Chicago, Illinois
July 20 2009 The Echo Los Angeles, California *
July 21 2009 The Rickshaw Stop San Fransisco, California *
July 23 2009 Backspace Portland, Oregon *
July 24 2009 Biltmore Cabaret Vancouver, BC *
July 25 2009 Capitol Hill Block Party Seattle, Washington
Sep 05 2009 Middle East Downstairs, Boston, Massachusetts &+
Sep 06 2009 La Sala Rossa Montreal, Quebec &+
Sep 07 2009 Horeshoe Tavern Toronto, Ontario &+
Sep 08 2009 Logan Square Auditorium Chicago, Illinois &+
Sep 09 2009 Stage Door at the Orpheum Madison, Wisconsin &+
Sep 10 2009 The Slowdown Omaha, Nebraska &+
Sep 12 2009 Monolith Festival Morrison, Colorado
Sep 13 2009 Kilby Court Salt Lake City, Utah &+
Sep 14 2009 Neurolux Boise, Idaho &+
Sep 17 2009 MFNW / Doug Fir Portland, Oregon &+
Sep 21 2009 Casbah San Diego, California &+
Sep 22 2009 Club Congress Tucson, Arizona &+
Sep 24 2009 Lola's Fort Worth, Texas &+
Sep 25 2009 The Mohawk Austin, Texas &+
Sep 26 2009 One Eyed Jacks New Orleans, Louisiana &+
Sep 27 2009 Club Downunder Tallahassee, Florida &+
Sep 28 2009 The Earl Atlanta, Georgia &+
Sep 29 2009 Local 506 Chapel Hill, North Carolina &+
Sep 30 2009 Black Cat, Washington DC &+
Oct 01 2009 Ottobar Baltimore, Maryland &+
Oct 05 2009 First Unitarian Church Philadelphia, Pennsylvania &+

% = w/ Zaza
# = w/ Crystal Stilts
* = w/ Girls
& = w/ The Depreciation Guild
+ = w/ Cymbals Eat Guitars

The Very Best Full-Length

Via: GVB
Kamphopola! HEY! Kamphopola!

Yeah you can hear Radioclit and Malawian singer Esau Mwamwaya a.k.a The Very Best, screaming that now. Their 2008 release, The Very Best Mixtape, played at many-a-party and summer occasion during the latter half of last year. It's good for shower listens, or walking down the middle of the street, screaming Kamphopola! or some variation.

Well, these two are going to appease all Mixtape fans by releasing a full-length aptly titled, Warm Heart of Africa,(what else would they call it?!) due out this fall. The album will drop on Green Owl, who is streaming a new track from the record, "Ntende Uli" here, on their site.


Check out tour dates after the jump.

The Very Best Tour Dates

July 16 Los Angeles The Echoplex
July 17 San Francisco Mighty
July 18 New York Le Poisson Rouge
July 19 Chicago Pitchfork Music Festival

New White Denim and Here We Go Magic

Things have begun to bubble up from the new White Denim release Fits. NME is streaming the album, but apparently we only get snippets here in the US? No Little Boots LP and now only White Denim snippets?? No US release for Fits is set yet either! When did the UK become cooler than the US? I guess we'll have to start eating more fried eggs and Heinz Baked Beans. (Looking at you Lauren Brailey). We've been fans of this rollicking, garage-soul trio out of Austin since their last record Workout Holiday stormed onto our iPods last year. See our live review here. White Denim are part of the "are you fucking kidding me??" bill of Dirty Projectors and Magnolia Electric Company on July 19th at the Williamsburg Waterfront. A concert series that no one has any idea about. Whtat's going on? Gongshow. (VIA)

In other news....

We get the new video today for Here We Go Magic's fantastic tune "Fangela." We were impressed by their opening for Grizzly Bear, but Town Hall wasn't really the right room for them. Looking forward to seeing them elsewhere. If you haven't checked out their fantastic record. Do so immediately.

Showcase Review and Photos

Tristen @ Cameo

First, we must thank long-time friend of Stark, Karp, for all the fabulous photos taken at the Showcase.

The evening began in the Loving Cup Cafe which is attached through a series of speakeasy-esque narrow hallways to the main venue Cameo. We Starkians dined on some fabulous Loving Cup cuisine including pulled pork and massive frittatas before the festivities. A few Side Cars later, we realized it was 8:30 and time to get Tristen on stage.

Tristen (8:30 pm):
There was a pre-show buzz circulating around Tristen who trekked from Nashville with close friend and band-mate Larissa. Aside from Stark reviews, myspace and word-of-mouth, there was little known about Tristen's sound. Donning the stage with vintage cherry red, '66 Gibson, Ukulele, acoustic guitar and cello, the duo of Tristen and Larissa soon quieted the milling audience. Fiery vocal lines and powerful harmonies were unveiled to a highly receptive Brooklyn crowd that was at one point, proclaimed to be "better than in Nashville." Booyah. Tristen was a surprise to most, but made fans out of all. Most fell in love with her and Larissa's quirky stage presence, soul-piercing vocals and quality musicianship. In case you missed Tristen, check out Lakeside Lounge this Wednesday (June 17) or Toad in Boston, MA on June 18.

Read more and see more after the jump.


Tristen

Pursesnatchers
Pursesnacthers (9:45 pm):
And then there was a full-band. Following Tristen, the Pursesnatchers unleashed a raucous attack of well-crafted, locked down rock jams. There was tons of energy during this performance, which was reciprocated by those in the audience who huddled around the stage, bobbing rhythmically to the music. The give-and-take between the band and the audience was spectacular.

April Smith
April Smith (10:45 pm):
We knew something was going to explode when April Smith loaded in switch boards of effects peddles, had road cases, and a five piece band in tow. Again, the hum in the crowd was that of unknown anticipation. April Smith left little to chance as she stepped toward the mic and unleashed a unique vocal sound with seemingly endless range, not once looking back. The audience took a step back, then five steps forward as the intoxicating sounds and mystique of April Smith took them over. The dark horse of the evening became an instant highlight.

Jaymay
Photo: Chris Becker
Jaymay: (11:45 pm)
There was an unbridled excitement and jump in Jaymay's step Saturday evening. Playing as a trio with electric guitar and upright bass accompaniment, Jaymay revealed some new tunes which will be included on her upcoming EPs. A silent aura of artistry always surrounds Jaymay, only accentuated by her beautiful vocal lines and lyrical craftsmanship. She draws you in only to push you away, leaving you wanted more with every tune. Cameo's alluring lighting arrangement and close-knit feel exacerbated the intimacy of Jaymay's performance. Satisfaction was paramount and widespread afterword.

Xylos
Xylos (12:45 pm):
A great end to a fantastic night. The tropical-rock stylings of Xylos meshed perfectly with the intoxication levels of the audience and subsequently, their willingness to get up and dance. Upbeat tunes spawned spontaneous dancing and singing capping off a great evening.

THANKS TO ALL! SEE YOU SOON.

Another New Bowerbirds mp3: "Beneath Your Tree"

[mp3] Bowerbirds: "Beneath Your Tree"

Today we get another preview from the new Bowerbirds record Upper Air. Needless to say, we're pretty excited for this record as we've been posting every little tid-bit of news that comes our way. You can pre-order Upper Air HERE and get the full album download immediately. This is definitely our favorite version of a pre-order campaign. Instant gratification. You also get a free poster when the physical comes in the mail. Upper Air hits stores July 7th on Dead Oceans.

New Mount Eerie "Wind's Poem"

Mount Eerie's last record Lost Wisdom was a haunting yet beautiful trip through lead songwriter Phil Elverum's moods and aural landscapes. For that outing he enlisted the fantastic voice of Julie Doiron who added a perfect compliment to the album. The ever prolific Elverum returns August 18th with Wind's Poem, which constitues Mount Eerie's 3rd proper record. The album promises "A hundred kinds of distortion, oceans of synth, and clouds of bass [as] the elements these twelve songs are built from, with moments of clarity occasionally revealing soft harmonies... reverently attempting to describe a dark mystery." Elverum spent weeks writing and observing the woods from his backyard to derive a Thoreau-like type of inspiration. Wind's Poem promises another serene but expectedly dark trip through Elverum's world, accented as always by his consistent and well-crafted songwriting.

New Richard Hawley: "Truelove's Gutter"

Richard Hawley follows up his good, but not great 2008 album Lady's Bridge, with the September 22nd release of Truelove's Gutter (Mute). Despite a few weak tracks on Lady's Bridge, Hawley's albums are always anticipated affairs. A songwriter of his strength and talent have that next great album waiting somewhere in their head, and as the saying goes, even their weaker records are better than most songwriter's better efforts. For that reason, we'll be looking forward to giving Truelove's Gutter a spin.

Showcase Over! Thank You.

Saturday night was an amazing success. Things went according to plan, there were no major hiccups, and all of you came out in amazing support of the musicians, Stark, Jinners and Cameo. We wanted to use this Monday morning to get our lives back together and thank a ton 'o people that made the Showcase so spectacular.

Thanks to Jinners, our co-host.
Thanks to Tammy Hart.
Thanks to all the bands: Tristen, Pursesnatchers, April Smith, Jaymay and Xylos.
Thanks to all that came out: friends, family, and fans.
Thanks to the Northside Fest and L Magazine.

Check back for Showcase recap coming soon...