Summer Camp Announce Welcome To Condale

[mp3] Summer Camp: "I Want You"

It's been a long time coming, but we're excited to announce that long time Stark faves Summer Camp will be dropping their debut full length Welcome to Condale on November 8th in North American via Summer Camp's own Apricot Records, an imprint of much loved London based indie Moshi Moshi Records. As a preview of the new material, on September 13th they'll digitally release the new single "Better Off Without You" streaming below.

Summer Camp (Jeremy Warmsley and Elizabeth Sankey) purvey nostalgic and hyper-melodic 80s pop that would sound perfectly acceptable in period dramas like 16 Candles or The Breakfast Club. That's certainly not a knock on this band (especially given John Hughes' great taste) good songs are good songs, and while we haven't yet heard this full length - their solid track record of past singles speaks for itself.

Savage Night at The Opera

[mp3] Destroyer: "Savage Night at the Opera"

Didn't really know what to think about the new Destroyer Kaputt (Merge) record when it first dropped way back in January. But, somehow it's managed to stay on my iPhone shuffle all these months, building up plays and worming its way into my subconscious. I like the album, maybe even really like the album, but I hate the smooth jazz sax lines. For whatever atmosphere they add, they distract from the songs more. This sax/trumpet fad will be short lived in indie rock and date the record. That being said, this is a quality album. This is solid songwriting, with unique execution and delivery. It will be on my top albums of the year list - just not sure where yet... Here's Destroyer's great new video for "Savage Night at the Opera."

Caitlin Rose Does It All, Signs to ATO

[mp3] Caitlin Rose: "Own Side Now"

[mp3] Caitlin Rose: "Shanghai Cigarettes"

What can't Caitlin Rose do? After releasing her debut record earlier this year, Own Side Now, Rose took the UK by storm ruffling feathers at NME, BBC and Q Magazine. Shortly thereafter, she returned to the states garnering album reviews from the New York Times, NPR, LA Weekly and more. Doing what a good young artist does best, Rose kept to the road spreading her crystalline voice, cheekily-creative lyrics and southern charm. This Nashville-native was making friends in the right places; ultimately those friendships landed her a record deal with ATO Records. Home, or former home, to such artists as Drive By Truckers, Dawes, My Morning Jacket and Gomez, ATO will add a much needed stiff-label backing to Rose's exponential career path. Soon to join the likes of Justin Townes Earle/Jason Isbell and Hayes Carll on a Fall tour, Rose is poised and positioned for continued success; keep your eye on her...we have for the past four years and it is paying off.

Tour dates with Justin Townes Earl/Jason Isbell and Hayes Carll after the jump!

Down On The Bikini Line

[mp3] Jonny Corndawg: "Chevy Beretta"

The world is a better place for having Jonny Corndawg in it. Before we even got a glimpse of his excellent new album Down on the Bikini Line (coming out 8/30 on Thirty Tigers) we heard tales of the wit, friendliness, humor and generosity that accompanied Corndawg's crisp songwriting style and homages to past country music greats. After purchasing some of his amazing hand-crafted leather products (BUY THEM) and hearing an advance of the record, we were full converts.

Corndawg, without lapsing into cheesy ironic tropes, manages to remind us all to not take ourselves so seriously all the time. Music can be quality, while still being fun an uplifting. Not everything needs to consist of found VHS analog footage spliced with arty black and white vignettes and dark minor key melodies. Moreover, Country music has a long history of humor in its catalog. While nodding to the likes of George Jones and Waylon Jennings, Jonny Corndawg keeps his sound current and relevant - writing tight tunes with lyrics like "when a Ford man turns to Chevy, an angel gets its wings." Special shout out to special Nashville friends like Caitlin Rose who make some awesome guest appearances here. Click here for national tour dates.

New Video: The Dodos - "Good" + Free Live Album Download

The Dodos dropped their newest video for "Good," a track of the band's recent release No Color . In addition, they announced a string of US tour dates (available after the jump) and are offering fans a free 'Live in Amsterdam' album download. Head HERE for more download details.

US tour dates after the jump.

New Video and mp3 from Gem Club

[mp3] Gem Club: "Twins"

Today we got a 2 for 1 Gem Club press release that includes a gorgeous video for "Breakers" and a taste for new song "Twins." We wrote about our excitement for Breakers (September 27 Hardly Art) a few weeks ago, and these new assets continue to whet our appetite for the full length.

Marissa Nadler Video: "Alabaster Queen"

[mp3] Marissa Nadler: "Baby I Will Leave You in The Morning"

From her oft-written about, and great new self titled album out now. The video is Portuguese artist Joana Linda's interpretation of the song and she directed, edited, and starred in the video.

New Tom Waits

Tom Waits: Bad As Me October 25 on Anti

Artist to Watch: Lana Del Rey

[mp3] Lana Del Rey: "Video Games"

While this post has been brewing for a few weeks now, the internet chatter around this striking new artist is reaching new levels this week. From Facebook posts, to Pitchfork premieres and of course, a Stark post, Lana Del Rey has been everywhere, and deservedly so. While "Video Games" is not necessarily a "Rolling in the Deep" caliber piece of songwriting Del Rey, with her striking looks and atmospheric vocals and arrangements, is able to create an aura around the tune that captures the listener and offers a glimmer at what could be in store down the road from this promising artist. There's a lot going on for this upstate New York native right now, and we feel there is a ton of potential. Let's hope Del Rey is able to continue to grow and develop and not fall victim to the swift, evil, death so many other "buzz" artists have suffered. Remember, it's all in the songs! The excellent "Video Games" will be released with b-side "Blue Jeans" by Stranger Records October 9 via all major digital retailers, and October 10 on limited edition 7" vinyl picture disc.

Monday Earworm: Total Babes

[mp3] Total Babes: "Be So True"

We're back in action after a whirlwind tour of LA which found us in TV and recording studios, beach bonfires, desert hills, and sceney brunch locales. Yet, after all that it's great to be back amongst our beer-swilling, snarky, non-driving New York brethren. So on our walk to work this morning, with a fresh cup of Mud, this little gem came on to really sweeten the deal. Total Babes' Swimming Through Sunlight drops next week courtesy of the great folks at Old Flame Records. Total Babes have been getting some extra love from the press as it features members of Cloud Nothings, who if you remember, made a pretty excellent record themselves this year. Grab Total Babes' album next week, and throw that Cloud Nothings record back on your shuffle to hold you over till then. "Be So True" doesn't rewrite the lo fi pop songbook, but with its Wavves-inflected sound the tune captures a rock-solid hook, perfect for those Labor Day parties complete with 24oz novelty Coors Lights.

Tonight at Pianos

ARTIST TO WATCH: WHITE LIFE

[mp3] White Life: "Time is Wasting"

A few weeks back we caught wind of an excellent new group from Baltimore - the synth-laden hook heavy White Life. Tonight they will be in New York at Pianos, playing a great bill which includes Shelock's Daughter, who are in the midst of big residency of their own.

While we've yet to see White Life in the flesh - what we've heard promises to be high energy - well-written party music. This is one of those bands you will hear about all year, so buy early so you can tell your friends you were there when.

We're psyched to be bringing you one of the first looks at the new video for their single "Time is Wasting" - enjoy folks. White Life are on the earlier side of the bill tomorrow.

New Video: Naked and Famous "The Sun" (NSFW)

The Naked And Famous - The Sun from The Naked And Famous on Vimeo.

The new video for "The Sun" from Stark's Featured artist, New Zealand's Naked and Famous, lands on our doorstep today. This band has infiltrated our lives over the past month starting with a Summerstage Sunday booze fest, continuing in to a hazy late night performance at Brooklyn Bowl and now, formulating into an Eyes Wide Shut-esque techno-colored, video orgy. Looks like fun.

Grab their debut, Passive Me, Aggressive You out now.

Out on the Open West

[mp3] Frank Fairfield: "Up The Road Somewhere"

Frank Fairfield's music is sparse and open; recorded seemingly with just a single mic in front of where the man weaves his timeless Appalachian-style banjo or fiddle driven tunes and melodies. Fairfield has gained acclaim in some indie circles due to his touring relationship with Fleet Foxes. But, while that fact may have gained him a few more eyes and ears, his work stands on its own as a true documentation of past styles viewed through a modern lens. The melodies and moods on his excellent new album Out on the Open West are expansive and compelling, making it a strong dark horse contender for one of our top albums of the year.

New Video: Alex Winston - "Velvet Elvis"

 Alex Winston - Velvet Elvis

I promise, we post more than just videos, but there have been a few things worth posting these past few days. Enjoy this one above for Alex Winston's new single, "Velvet Elvis," from her Velvet Elvis EP

Rock.

Yours Truly J. Irvin Dally

J. Irvin Daly: "Punchbowls" & "Teething"

[mp3] J. Irvin Dally: "Sun Room"

We're way late in posting this one from one of our favorite rising talents, but you know what they say, better late than... Thanks YT.

All Tomorrow's LES Parties

As many of you may or may not know - the Stark team is pretty well rooted in the East Village - in body or in spirit - and are addicted to learning about the way things used to be around here. We've been reminded on a daily basis over the past 5 years here of how wildly different things were, not that long ago. While a little off the usual Stark path here's a killer video...

I visited the East Village in 1967 and when I moved there 10 years later not much had changed. The East Village, Tompkins Square and Alphabet City were in decay, whole areas were virtual urban wastelands. But, out of the ruins great things were rising in the arts and culture. During the mid-70s through the 1980s, the area was vibrant with a bohemian vibe. Then came gentrification and many of us were pushed out, along with the poor and elderly. The area is thriving now with fine restaurants, fashion boutiques and trendy bar after bar after bar. It’s still a wasteland – an expensive, well-maintained, cultural wasteland. Where once were bookstores, rock clubs and shops filled with hip affordable clothing there are now fast food chains, designer brand boutiques and banks popping up like a bad case of corporate herpes. Yes, I know I sound like a disgruntled ex-New Yorker. I am one.

VIA EVgrieve VIA BoweryBoogie.

New Video: Laura Marling - 'Sophia"

I still don't know how I feel about this song from the UK's Laura Marling: on one hand, you have a Joni Mitchell-esque guitar ballad. Then, at about 2:40, the band kicks in and things get very AAA radio. So, I am kind of stumped...but Marling's talent for songwriting is evident. Her crystalline voice is unwaivering and well, I don't know, maybe I like the AAA vibe. You be the judge. Her third record, A Creature I Don't Know releases on Sept. 12 in the UK, Sept. 13 in the US.

New Girls Video: "Vomit"

[mp3] Girls: "Vomit"

Very much looking forward to this new record. Does anyone else hear a heavy Floyd influence here? Solid track. Girls’ new album Father, Son, Holy Ghost is set to drop Sept. 13.

Video for Friday: Dominant Legs - "Hoop of Love"

Just came across this randomly via GVB and it struck me as a perfect song for the weekend, and more importantly, the end of a Friday!

Dominant Legs - "Hoop of Love"

Happy weekend y'all

New A.A. Bondy

AA Bondy - The Heart Is Willing by fatpossum

A few weeks back we posted the news of the new album from A.A. Bondy... this week we got our first taste of the album in "The Heart is Willing" which you can check out above. The sound is more atmospheric and electric than we're used to from Bondy though it's still dark and haunting. There's even a sinister touch at play here. Always good to see an artist trying new things. Should be interesting to hear what the rest of the album is like. Believers drops 9/13 on Fat Possum.

Royal Headache: "Down The Lane"

[mp3] Royal Headache: "Down the Lane"

We give Altered Zones a lot of shit - but for every 8 posts on bands you will never hear from again, or care to, there is one really solid act that makes it worth reading. We discovered Gem Club there, as well as Shimmering Stars. Add Sydney's Royal Headache to that list. Royal Headache's song "Down The Lane" (from their forthcoming S/T Sept release) may not just be the best song we've heard on Altered Zones, but maybe the best song we've heard all summer. It's a REAL song. It has a hook, and a melody, structure - holy shit - you'd think it was the second coming "Brown Sugar." Well, that it's not, but it IS just a great pop-punk tune that's refreshing as hell. They'll be in the US around release in Sept. Their album was produced by Mikey Young of Eddy Current Suppression Ring and Straight Arrows' Owen Penglis. Very much looking forward to hearing it all.

Jeff Bridges Self-Titled Album Debut

In a most likely poorly guided attempt at being original, we are going to hold off on any 'dude' related references in this post. No, we would like to introduce you to Jeff Bridges, the singer-songwriter. Having powerful friends can help make a powerful record, and in Bridges' case, he has a lot of powerful friends. With the help of acclaimed producer and songwriter, T Bone Burnett at the helm, Bridges found himself aside the likes of Rosanne Cash, Ryan Bingham, Marc Ribot, John Goodwin, Greg Brown and more. Combining country-roots, vocal rasp, and the ear of Burnett, Bridges does well to lay down an impressive debut in what may be a blip on this movie stars' all time accolades.

Bridges' self-titled debut drops on August 16 via our good friends Blue Note Records. Enjoy the album trailer above.

New Track: "We Can't Stop" - JJ feat. Ne-Yo

tUnE-YarDs Do Fallon with The Roots

Again proving Merrill Garbus is queen of indie rock. Whokill is a contender for album of the year, and it's out now, get it. Dig the Stark live review from a few weeks back here.

Tune-Yards - Bizness by snipelondon

Holdin on to Black Metal

[mp3] MMJ: "Holdin on to Black Metal"

Hayes Carll Vinyl Giveaway!

In conjunction with Filter and Lost Highway Records, we are happy announce a vinyl giveaway of Hayes Carll's sophomore record, KMAG YOYO (& Other American Stories).

The first lucky fan to tweet "@Hayescarll! Vinyl Giveaway of 'KMAG YOYO' via @thestarkonline" will win a copy of this fantastic release. Tweet to win.

On that note, we had the pleasure of spending a lovely Saturday afternoon with this Texas-native at what was Stark's first concert in the Stuyvesant Town Oval. Opening for Old 97's frontman Rhett Miller, Carll played to a sun-soaked, family-heavy, seated, NYC crowd; for those familiar with Carll's musical stylings, you know he likens himself to lyrical topics such as booze, women, sex, drugs, money, travel and more. Needless to say, a few cocked heads and awkwardness could not be avoided at this venue, especially when tots are bopping around to his killer new track 'One Bed, Two Women, Three Bottles of Wine.' We on the other hand, loved every minute of Carll's hilarious stage banter, well-crafted americana tunes and creatively written lyrics. There was also a Tom Waits cover thrown in for good measure, always a plus. The pure hilarity and enjoyment of the day was driven home by Carll's super-pro band of pickers and ultimately solidified by a post-show debriefing with the man himself. Be sure to TWEET TO WIN! and check out any and all things Hayes Carll.

[mp3] Hayes Carll: "Another Like You"