The Features Prep New LP, 7-inch

Nashville's The Features return on July 26 with their third studio effort The Wilderness. It'll be released through Kings of Leon's Serpents and Snakes label and, strangely, it seems those Followill's have an ear for radio-ready alt. rock. The lead single "Rambo" blends in just enough spaghetti western riffology to keep their middle of the road guitars and vocals interesting. That track will be featured on a 7-inch along with B-side "That Much I Know" available through the band's website or at selected indie record shops.

Rambo 7 inch by The Features

US tour dates after the jump . . .

New A.A. Bondy

[mp3] A.A. Bondy: "When The Devil's Loose"

Very exciting news from Fat Possum yesterday. Perennial Stark hero A.A. Bondy has announced a new record, Believers due September 13th. Here's what we know from the press release:

Believers is ten new songs by A.A. Bondy.
They were conjured during and between dreams, in bare rooms,
and on the late night streets of America.

It was recorded in the spring of 2011 by Rob Schnapf at Mant/Kingsize Studios in Glassell Park, California. Musicians include Ben Lester (drums, piano, pedal steel) and Macey Taylor (bass).

Believers is the follow up to the 2009 album When The Devil's Loose, and is Bondy's third for Fat Possum Records.

Gillian Welch: The Harrow & The Harvest

[mp3] Gillian Welch: "Orphan Girl"

Gillian Welch is one of the most important artists of our generation. It's hard to write about someone like that. Her debut, Revival, was close to perfect. A faded black and white depression era photo, of a naturally beautiful woman in a simple midwestern dress graced the cover. No one really knew who she was. Inside though, that seemingly simple looking woman, with an amazing partner (David Rawlings) and a time-tested producer (T. Bone Burnett, before his recent string of stale material) crafted one of the most subtle and timeless records in the country cannon. Say what you will of "Time (The Revelator)", but "Orphan Girl" is the song that defined the artist.

Welch, released several other albums, including the mildly maligned, Soul Journey in 2003 which in truth contains some fantastic writing, including the stellar "Wayside / Back In Time." Then, she took time off, apparently going through a fairly self-critical period where no songs seemed to be working for her and partner Rawlings. The critical world and the fans we're treated to snippets of Gillian: The David Rawlings' Machine record, and The Decemberists The King is Dead being the most prominent. Yet, everyone wondered aloud as to her new record. Words of encouragement seemed to come from her peers and fans alike, as everyone genuinely wanted this fantastic artist to succeed.

So, today, we have The Harrow and The Harvest. 10 new tracks, spare and rustic, with only 2 tracks eclipsing the 5 minute mark. What's contained within, is still relatively a mystery to this writer. (The label understandingly, was protective of the music, but at some point, you're doing your artist a disservice by not letting a mass of smaller writers contribute to the word of mouth and online buzz behind a record. I know several other larger blogs who didn't have this record either, which is a mistake on the label's part in my opinion.) We're not sore though.

The Harrow and The Harvest (consumed through bad computer speakers via NPR) shows the beginnings of something special. It seems a record more in line with her earlier works Revival and Hell Amoung The Yearlings, than the sprawling Time (The Revelator) or the pop-minded Soul Journey. I've waited a long time for this one, so, until next time, I'm going to sit back and let The Harrow and The Harvest mellow in my ears for a bit. When you only get a record once every 4 years, you don't want to rush things. I certainly won't.

Big Harp, White Hat

Here's a charming little tune from LA newcomers Big Harp, which is Chris Senseney from Art In Manila, and Stefanie Drootin-Senseney who has played w/ numerous Omaha favorites including The Good Life and Bright Eyes and has recently founded the Omaha Girls Rock! camp which is opening its doors this summer. Big Harp's album 'White Hat' (September 13, Saddle Creek) recorded by Rilo Kiley bassist Pierre de Reeder, is a fun, summery, amalgamation of American musical influences. It has the charm and feel of a She and Him record, without the overt cuteness factor to deal with. Certainly a lovely late-summer pick up.

New Video: The Kills "Future Starts Slow"

This Kills album has really grown on me and has sustained on the iPod for sometime now. Dig the new video for a great track titled, "Future Starts Slow: above from their fourth studio record, Blood Pressures, out now on Domino.

Thanks.

Truckers Do Letterman

[mp3] Drive-by Truckers: "Used to be a Cop"

Don't they look sharp? Playing album standout, Eddie Hinton's "Everybody Needs Love" from their excellent Go Go Boots album out now.

PHOTOS: Governor's Ball 2011, The Stark Way

It has been said by Stark many-a-time, that we are at our best in life during a daytime music festival. With that in mind, ask yourself...what does urban exploring, indie-electro-pop, VIP ferry rides, good weather, golf carts, and a once-in-a-life time photo spread have to do with one another? They all happened this Saturday at the Governor's Ball Music Festival. No, that photo of the festival above was not taken via blimp, or airborne device. That was taken by the Stark Crew atop a high-rise apartment building. Yep.

The day started off right: a few margaritas, great weather, the promise of a good day of music, friends and then an empty VIP line for the ferry, in which we quickly took advantage. Soon on the island, we credentialed up, and headed for a romp of the grounds. Arriving a bit late, we sadly missed Reptar's early set, but we lucky enough to catch a bit of Miami Horror and Neon Indian. After helping a Red Bull rep defend his Grey Goose/Red Bull stash from an angry throng of concert goers we soon found ourselves at the business end of The Culture of Me's camera is his photo tent. Snapped a few shots, all was well! After a few more sets of music, we began to take a step back, observe our surroundings, bask in a well put on event, and quickly notice that most everyone there was neon-toting and fairly young.

Meanwhile, our minds were set on the history of this island -- a deserted wasteland of brick buildings, tall grass and high-rise, dormitory-esque buildings. We kept describing the area as an abandoned college campus. We thought some urban exploring was well over due (see photos after the jump.) BIG THANKS to the Big Hassle team (CV!) and Founders Entertainment for an amazing festival.

More photos of the urban-island adventure, after the jump.

New NSFW Video: Yuck - "Shook Down"

Yuck - Shook Down from Yuck on Vimeo.
Milkshake by Yuck

Fragmented genitalia? Only on a Monday. Enjoy this new NSFW from Yuck for their tune "Shook Down" off the upcoming 7" releasing on July 11th. The vinyl will include "Shook Down" and "Milkshake" which is available for stream above.

Check out their new US tour dates after the jump.

Blitzen Trapper Announce New Album

[mp3] Blitzen Trapper: "Black River Killer"

Press Release:

Sub Pop Records is proud to announce the new album from Blitzen Trapper entitled American Goldwing. Set for a September 13th release, American Goldwing is full of the introspective and striking storytelling that countless critics have fallen in love with. Beginning July 19th in Salt Lake City, Blitzen Trapper will head out on a North American headlining tour and introduce their new material to fans. Tour dates below and many more to be announced shortly.

With subjects ranging from fighting to falling in love, drug running with the good old boys and the final high school dance,American Goldwing is a freewheeling collection that balances the roughness of rock ‘n’ roll with fateful heartfelt loss. “It’s me trying to evoke a true American nostalgia” explains lead singer and songwriter Eric Earley.

RIP Big Man

Richard Buckner: Our Blood

[mp3] Richard Bruckner: "Escape"

Richard Buckner, hailed by too many publications to note as one of "America's Best Songwriters" has suffered a litany of setbacks between his last record Meadow (2006) and his upcoming album, and second for Merge, Our Blood. Between being implicated (and subsequently cleared) in some bizarre headless corpse-in-a-truck incident, getting his laptop (and digital files) stolen, his tape machine crashing, and who knows what other other out of this world shit happening, Buckner has overcome and finally has his album cleared for release on August 2. Buckner's distinctly American writing, speaks through its stark simplicity, captivating stories, and leathery vocals. We're very glad 'Our Blood' finally made it to us and the world. MP3 Via IFC.

Dry the River, Alela Dianne, Parson Red Heads: Saturday

[mp3] Dry The River: "New Ceremony"

[mp3] Alela Diane: "Long Way Down"

All three bands are veterans of this site, so it's no shock we're pretty psyched that they're all playing on the same bill Saturday night at The Knitting Factory. While we will be attending the stacked day party that is The Governor's Ball Festival Saturday - this show is surely the event of the evening. Dry the River are back in the US to continue recording their much-anticipated debut LP, Ms. Diane is supporting her excellent new self-titled effort, and the dark horse of the bill, The Parson Redheads, are hyping their upcoming West Coast sun-kissed, psych-folk record Yearling, due August 16th. Highly recommended show.
The Parson Red Heads - Burning Up The Sky

Shimmering Stars sign to Hardly Art

[mp3] Shimmering Stars: "I'm Gonna Try"

Shimmering Stars were one of those bands we posted on (wow, that video was from October?), and thought we may never hear from again. That happens a LOT, and it's always a little disheartening to see bands with promise just not being able to make it work. Yet, our spirits lifted a bit yesterday when we saw that the Vancouver band signed to Hardly Art for the release of their forthcoming debut LP Violent Hearts due Sept 13. Their lead single "I'm Gonna Try" has that nostalgic back-beat driven melody that many out there these days try and emulate, but rarely nail down. While we're not sure what the rest of the album sounds like, we're lucky to have this slice of throwback pop that stands out from the hordes of like-minded bands, who, fortunately or unfortunately may never have a real shot of making it. Also, go Canucks! (Game seven tonight).

Tinariwen + TV On the Radio = Awesome

Dig this new video for "Tenere Taqqim Tossam" from Southern Sahra-natives Tinariwen featuring Brooklyn's-own TV On the Radio. We are big champions of both bands and to see them come together musically is truly awesome. This is a great low-key summer jam! Enjoy!

Metronomy "The Bay"

[mp3] Metronomy: "The Look"

Ah. Summer. Metronomy will be in America July 28-Aug 1 for 2 shows (NY and LA). The Bay EP Drops June 21, and their full-length 'The English Riviera' is out now. Previous praise from Stark - lives here!

Blog Reel is Back

Is Tropical: "The Greeks" - Video of the Year??? (I know we're late)
Bright Eyes: "Jejune Stars" - MP3
Memory Tapes: "Yes I Know" - MP3

Preview: Josh T. Pearson @ Joe's Pub Friday

[mp3] Josh T. Pearson: "Woman I've Raised Hell"

There's been a lot of missed connections between Josh T. Pearson and Stark. Whether it's SXSW parties at the wrong time, NY shows when we're out of town, or whatever other craziness crops up, we haven't gotten a chance to catch the enigmatic and seemingly soft-spoken artist live yet. We've written on Pearson in the past. and his wandering and excellent album 'Last of the Country Gentleman' still stands as a stark reminder to this man's talent. Pearson's haunting and spare country-folk songs draw immediate attention to his voice and lyrical content. Admit it, when was the last time you went to a show and actually sat and listened to the words? I for one, am looking forward to it. Pearson plays Joe's Pub tomorrow (Friday) night at 11. Get tickets HERE.

The Postelles? Still?

Let me start off by saying, I like the Postelles. Or should I say, liked the Postelles. Don't get me wrong, I still love their music, but when a press release comes out telling me their debut record just released today via +1 Records, I am left confused. Didn't that record come out a year ago on Capitol? What happened? There wasn't a radio play and I think they got dropped.

Those of us in the industry know records are full of fits and starts. Unfortunately for the Postelles, they fell victim to what feels like a failed first push. After a video for their killer song,"White Night" surfaced along with some buzz in the UK, the blog world, including Stark began to take notice a bit. Then after awhile, radio silence. Maybe the push never happened and we just imagined it, but regardless, The Postelles have something good here in their debut produced by Albert Hammond Jr. of the Strokes. Keep a clear eye. Catch em tonight or tomorrow night at the Mercury Lounge!

Tour dates after the jump.

Beirut Announce 'The Rip Tide'

Beirut - East Harlem by Revolver USA

FROM PRESS RELEASE: "Beirut announces its first album in four years with The Rip Tide, set for release on August 30th.

The Rip Tide marks a dramatic and intimate shift from The Flying Club Cup (2007) and his “stop-off in Mexico” by way of the March of the Zapotec EP (2009). The album will feature “East Harlem” and “Goshen,” which appear on the band’s new limited edition single out NOW.

The Rip Tide will be released internationally and independently on Pompeii Records (via Revolver in the US), a label started, and wholly owned by Beirut’s Zach Condon with no large label affiliation whatsoever, so as to keep total creative control.

The Rip Tide track listing is as follows:

1. A Candle’s Fire
2. Santa Fe
3. East Harlem
4. Goshen
5. Payne’s Bay
6. The Rip Tide
7. Vagabond
8. The Peacock
9. Port of Call"

"You Said Dylan's Overrated"

[mp3] Hayes Carll: "Another Like You"

Yes, this does mark like 15 video posts in a row, but who cares. Hayes Carll is easily one of our favorite "newish" artists over the past few years, and his new album KMAG YOYO [Army for: "Kiss My Ass Guys, You're On Your Own] is a perfect slice of everything great about Hayes. They songs are sharp, the lyrics are astute and relevant, and as you can see in the above video, dude has a wickedly excellent sense of humor. "Another Like You" is a duet with the fantastic Cary Ann Hearst and the video features production from Aqua Teen Hunger Force co-creator David Willis, and cameo appearances by Mary Matalin and James Carville. We're still wondering how that relationship works. KMAG YOYO is out now.

"County Line"

[mp3] Cass McCombs: "County Line"

From Cass McCombs' recently released 'Wit's End' on Domino.

New Tom Vek Video - 'World of Doubt'

Tom Vek - A Chore by fadedglamourblog

Dig the new video from Tom Vek for "World of Doubt" from his upcoming sophomore album, Leisure Seizure dropping June 7th digitally and September 13th physically (Island Records UK/Cooperative Music USA/ Downtown)!

New Foo Fighters Video - "Walk"

Tags: Foo Fighters, Music, More Music Videos

Drinking the Kool Aid, but everyone knows the Foos are known for their hillarious music video escapades. Enjoy! This is the second single, "Walk" from the band's recently released album, Wasting Light out now on RCA Records.

Caitlin Rose: "Faithless Love"

Caitlin Rose - Faithless Love by theory 8 records

Not sure whether this is new, or just new to us. Caught it on Twitter this AM. Either way, it's great and we wanted to share. Here Caitlin Rose covers JD Souther's timeless "Faithless Love" popularized by Rose idol Linda Ronstadt on her '74 classic Heart Like a Wheel. Love it. Rose's excellent debut album Own Side Now is out now on Theory 8 Records. Click the above link for Caitlin's US dates, including hometown favorite, the Philadelphia Folk Fest, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year! August 18-21.

"Dear Les Friends"

[mp3] Hotel Mexico: "Dear Les Friends"

Tip of the hat to GVB for this Japanese summer pop nugget from Hotel Mexico. Not much you really need to know here. Press play, sit back, enjoy.

Dear Lions: "Space Sister"

[mp3] Dear Lions: "Space Sister"

We've been digging on the few tunes we've heard from New York's Dear Lions, and we're glad to share the above track w/ you all today. There's a lot of influences at play here, from anglophile power-pop, to good old wholesome Americana. However you slice it, Ricky Lewis has some nice pipes, and with musical partner Adam Rubenstein, Dear Lions have crafted a solid EP which is out now. Just for added flavor, a few quotes from the press release:

To Lewis, the song exemplifies his personal struggles from working stiff to aspiring musician -- and more importantly the redemptive quality that only music can provide. "I wrote this song at 4 or 5 in the morning after waiting tables for something like 12 hours," says Lewis. "I was nearing the end of my rope in terms of working survival jobs, thinking about moving back home, leaving New York City. That's probably why the lyrics in 'Space Sister' have this apocalyptic theme".

White Life: "Time is Wasting"

[mp3] White Life: "Time is Wasting"

We don't know a ton about Baltimore's White Life right now, other than it's another project from the prolific Jon Ehrens and the first to feature sister Emily Ehrens. Their S/T LP just dropped on Ehse Records and it's sugary gem of an early summer album, filled with pop-infused synth melodies, vintage 80s keyboard sounds, and even some tasty fuzzed-out guitar work. White Life occupy the same pleasure zone for us as west coast favorites Kisses. While not rewriting the musical landscape, both groups are anchored by solid songwriting, clever arrangements, and excellent vocal performances. You can get White Life's album digitally, for a pay what you want donation HERE. It's a small indie, give up some cash folks.