The Stark Online

TONIGHT: Fort Lean at Santos

2012-02-28T12:25:00.000-05:00

Tonight, rising Brooklyn band Fort Lean celebrates their Neon Gold released Sunsick 7" with a sold out (?) show at Santos, with Team Spirit (who we're looking fwd to) . Fort Lean are a ballsy mix of influences, yet, most directly recall a crisper louder version of The Walkmen. With richer vocals, and a thicker soaring guitar attack Fort Lean's new single "Sunsick" delivers in all the ways today's atmospheric dubstep addled blog world doesn't.

Girls: "My Ma"

2012-02-28T11:38:00.001-05:00

The third video from "Father, Son, Holy Ghost" - of which, I've become a true true fan. It's only taken 10 months for some reason.Directed and edited by Aaron Brown and shot by Grant Singer and Aaron Brown.

Artist to Watch: Haim

2012-02-27T11:00:00.000-05:00

[mp3] Haim: "Forever"

There's not a lot to know about Haim. Maybe there is, and we don't know it - but what we do know is that these three LA sisters have songs good enough to make us stop our day and take full notice, immediately. While sharing that same west coast / big hat / jorts look as numerous others (see Bleached), Haim's single "Forever" writes any like-minded song under the table. With flashes of full-bodied 80s synth and drum tracks, Haim's few songs are outright fully formed pop tunes, transcending any lo-fi style-over-substance flash-in-the pan blog hits with ease. Download their FREE EP HERE. Yet, much is still to be determined here. We're hopeful for the promise of a good live show, and we'll be crossing our fingers that these singles are the real deal, and this band can come through on the back of a few solid tracks. Here's to the potential of a great new band. Thanks to Dylan for the email last week.

New Video: Summer Camp - "Losing My Mind"

2012-02-27T10:42:00.001-05:00

Dig this new video for Summer Camp's "Losing My Mind" from their debut, Welcome to Condale out now.

Vince Clicks the Viral - Young Publicist to the Stars

2012-02-24T16:16:00.001-05:00

Due to such high demand on the Facebook level, we at Stark are 'clicking the viral' on this throw back Good Morning America piece featuring our bestest friend and most favoritest publicist. The talent she reps is no match for her star power exhbited here. Enjoy. Click.

Crocodiles Announce 'Endless Flowers'

2012-02-23T10:55:00.003-05:00

Crocodiles are one of those bands that have managed to cut through the noise and stay on Stark's radar longer than most bands. Perhaps it was the amazing show we caught long ago at Pianos, or Crocodiles' innate ability to channel vintage noise rock we love (Jesus and Mary Chain) but we're still excited whenever we hear news of new music. Yesterday, they announced their third LP and first for Frenchkiss (after leaving Fat Possum), Endless Flowers, releasing June 5th. They're going to be hitting SX hard, and playing two NY shows Glasslands and Mercury April 11 and 12. Full tour dates after the jump. The new track sounds great - brighter - catchier - with flashes of Pains of Being Pure at Heart, but with some balls. The textures are thick, and the guitars piled on top of hook-laden male female vocals. Very glad these guys have managed to stick around.

Crocodiles - Sunday (Psychic Conversation #9) by souterraintransmissions

FEB. 22 MONTREAL, QC CASA DEL POPOLO*

FEB. 23 TORONTO, ONT LEE'S PALACE*

FEB. 25 CHICAGO, IL SCHUBAS TAVERN*

FEB. 26 MADISON, WI THE FREQUENCY*

FEB. 28 MINNEAPOLIS, MN 7^TH ST. ENTRY*

FEB. 29 FARGO, ND AQUARIUM#

MAR. 1 OMAHA, NE SLOWDOWN FRONT ROOM*

MAR. 2 DENVER, CO LARIMER LOUNGE*

MAR. 3 SALT LAKE CITY, UT URBAN LOUNGE*

MAR. 6 SEATTLE, WA THE SUNSET*

MAR. 7 PORTLAND, OR DOUG FIR LOUNGE*

MAR. 9 SAN FRANCISCO, CA RICKSHAW STOP**

MAR. 10 LOS ANGELES, CA ECHOPLEX^

MAR. 11 SAN DIEGO, CA CASBAH*

MAR. 14 AUSTIN, TX THE STAGE ON SIXTH (SXSW)

MAR. 17 HOUSTON, TX FITZGERALD'S (UPSTAIRS)

MAR. 18 DALLAS, TX CLUB DADA

APR. 11 BROOKLYN, NY GLASSLANDS

APR. 12 NEW YORK, NY MERCURY LOUNGE

* Bleeding Rainbow supports

** Bleeding Rainbow and Terry Malts support

^ Bleeding Rainbow and The Dunes support

# Young Prisms support

AlunaGeorge - "You Know You Like It"

2012-02-23T10:06:00.000-05:00

We came across this, as we're sure most of you did, via P4K this AM...we at Stark have had an expanded and seasoned musical palate, since our inception, or birth if you will. Jazz, rock, alt-country, country, indie-rock, electro-pop, you name it, we like it. Which brings us to the UK's AlunaGeorge, whom, as mentioned by P4K, have managed to create an amazing track in "You Know You Like It", but have somehow missed the US spotlight, or any spotlight for that matter, thus far. Well, that is clearly about to change. Dig this video and more importantly, this track. So, we at Stark continue down the recent path of championing electro-backed R&B jams (see Jessie Ware) and you know what, we like it.

Lower Dens "Brains"

2012-02-22T11:48:00.001-05:00

[mp3] Lower Dens: "Brains"

Very excited for the new Lower Dens album Nootropics on May 1. Check out the video above and the huge slew of tour dates after the jump including SX and a release day show at the Mercury Lounge.

A limited edition gold colored double LP with black swirl is available for pre-order exclusively through Ribbon Music: http://bit.ly/nootropicsmartpreorderA 10" featuring album tracks 'Brains' and 'Propagation' and backed with an exclusive b-side 'Hours' will be available physically and digitally on March 27th.
LOWER DENS TOUR DATES
02-29 Poughkeepsie, NY - Vassar
03-01 Hudson, NY - Club Helsinki
03-02 Middletown, CT - Wesleyan
03-03 Ithaca, NY - The Haunt
03-04 Albany, NY - Valentines
03-06 Ann Arbor, MI - University of Michigan Museum of Art
03-07 Grand Rapids, MI- The Pyramid Scheme
03-08 Chicago, IL - Subterranean
03-09 Madison, WI - Der Rathskeller at University of Wisconsin
03-10 Grinnell, IA - Grinnell College
03-11 Minneapolis, MN - Triple Rock
03-14 SXSW
03-15 SXSW
03-16 SXSW
03-17 Houston, TX - Rice University
04-06 Harrisonburg, VA - Macrock
04-07 Swannanoa, NC - Sage Cafe
04-21 Mexico City, MX - Noise Fest
04-27 Pawtucket, RI - The Met
04-28 Hamden, CT - The Outer Space
04-29 Allston, MA - Great Scott
05-01 New York, NY- Mercury Lounge
05-02 Brooklyn, NY- Glasslands
05-03 Philadelphia, PA - Johnny Brenda's
05-04 Washington, DC - Rock and Roll Hotel
05-05 Baltimore, MD- Ottobar
05-10 Brussels, BE- La Chocolaterie
05-11 The Hague, NL - Walk the Line Festival
05-12 Gent, BE - DOKarena
05-13 Paris, FR - Le Point Ephemere
05-14 Brighton, UK - The Hope
05-16 London, UK - The Lexington
05-17 Rotterdam, NL - Worm
05-18 Hamburg, DE - Hafenklang
05-19 Aarhus, DK - Pop Revo
05-20 Copenhagen, DK - Loppen
05-21 Berlin, DE - West Germany
05-23 Krakow, PL - Green Zoo Festival
05-24 Prague, CZ - Club 007
05-25 Vienna, AU - Chelsea
05-26 Kleinreifling, AU - Seeweisen Festival
05-29 Turin, IT - Blah Blah
05-30 St. Gallen, CH - Palace
05-31 Dudingen, CH - Kilbi Festival
06-01 Barcelona, ES - Primavera Sound
06-03 Dublin, EIR - Forbidden Fruit Festival

Princeton Releases LP 2

2012-02-22T11:39:00.000-05:00

We were initially apprehensive when we heard Princeton were taking a minimalist orchestral approach to the songs for their new album Remembrance of Things to Come, released yesterday. It wasn't until we heard the album via a Paste full album stream that we realized their charming west coast pop sensibilities were still intact, and in fact - better than ever. This is a more mature band, and one that has honed their song-craft for the second LP. Indeed including flashes of orchestral minimalism, their new songs still feature the wistful vocals we've come to love from the previous Princeton record, and our longtime favorite side project Kisses. Check out the Camera Obsucra remix, buy the album, see them on tour, stream it at Paste - do whatever you want - just tell your friends.

Live Dates:Feb. 22 - San Francisco, CA - The Independent*
Feb. 27 - Portland, OR - Mississippi Studios
Feb. 28 - Seattle, WA - Tractor Tavern
Mar. 01 - Salt Lake City, UT - In the Venue
Mar. 02 - Avon, CO - Snowball Music Festival
Mar. 10 - Phoenix, AZ - Lo Fi Coffee House
Mar. 13-18 - Austin, TX - SXSW
*Noise Pop Festival

Full Album Stream: School of Seven Bells Ghostory

2012-02-20T16:57:00.004-05:00

We're really excited for this record and have been for some time. Dig what we had to say about the first track released, "The Night" and the second, "Lafaye." PLAY THIS LOUD.

New Santigold - "Disparate Youth"

2012-02-20T16:52:00.000-05:00

"Disparate Youth" is the first track released from Santigold's much-anticipated, and well-overdue sophomore release, Master of My Make-Believe. The track will be available on iTunes tomorrow in the states. From what we hear, it seems like more of the same from Santi, but good nonetheless. Since her debut release in 2008, which we recently just put back on our iPods, Santigold's fan base has been clambering for more music...it has been over three years now. Is "Disparate Youth" what you are looking for? Will it get P4K Best New Track? Perhaps, but the time is here. Santigold is back.

Vince Clicks the Viral -- Check Out These Basketball Skills

2012-02-18T19:57:00.001-05:00

Does it get any better than this? Jordan, eat your shorts. I hope you are going to watch it over and over again like I am going to do...

That has just been my slam dunk...little thing, yeah. So I hope you like it. I sure did.

Julia Holter and Chromatics

2012-02-17T12:57:00.000-05:00

This is the first time we're tagging in on Julia Holter. The strength of her recent material coupled with the burgeoning press she has been getting, makes it hard not to see Holter catapulting to the top of many lists of artists to watch in 2012. The new video for "In The Same Room" is a wistful journey through scattered images and scenes - all connected by Holter's layered vocals, and haunting yet compelling delivery. Her new album Ekstasis comes out March 8. Highly anticipated listening.

ELSEWHERE - New Chromatics(!)

[mp3] Chromatics: "Into The Black (Neil Young Cover)"

New Theme Park: "Two Hours"

2012-02-17T10:56:00.000-05:00

Theme Park are easily one of the most prominent bands to watch coming out of the UK in 2012. Their debut album will drop later this year, but the 7" including the track above will come out in April via Transgressive. Not sure what their US plans are at the moment, but we'll keep you updated. Stream "Two Hours" below.

New Video: Jessie Ware - "Running"

2012-02-16T13:19:00.001-05:00

Found this gem via Disco Naivete. Jeesie Ware is a native of Brixton, London; her ethereal, R&B flavored-voice mixed with 80s synth/guitar lines make for an interestingly large tune. Listen to this one loud. It takes a few listens.

New Video: Laura Marling - "All My Rage"

2012-02-15T17:08:00.000-05:00

A nice second single from Ms. Marling off A Creature I Don't Know. The video is a bit creepy and has a Christmas Toy vibe (still unwatchable,) but it is enjoyable nonetheless.

New Video: Tennis - "Origins"

2012-02-14T16:17:00.001-05:00

Dig the new video from Tennis for their track "Origins" off Young & Old.

Happy Valentines Day From Charli XCX

2012-02-14T13:30:00.001-05:00

We've already flagged Charli XCX as one of our top artists to watch for 2012, behind her excellent two tracks "Stay Away" and "Nuclear Seasons." Today we get the little V-day nugget "Valentine." Charli is playing The Knitting Factory with the amazing Niki and The Dove on March 10. Both bands will be blowing up in Austin certainly.

ELSEWHERE:

[mp3] Niki and the Dove: "DJ Ease My Mind"

Their excellent EP 'The Drummer' is out now on Sub Pop. BUY

Mandy Lee and The Knocks Cover M83

2012-02-14T11:00:00.001-05:00

It's amazing how one video/cover can put an unknown artist immediately on the tip of people's tongues. Enter, Queens' own Mandy Lee. There are a few givens here, the M83 song "Midnight City" is a proven smash, and The Knocks can pretty much make any song into an uplifting dance experience. Yet, it's Lee's dominating lead vocal that makes this track worth listening to over and over. There are reportedly new Mandy Lee tracks heading our way soon, and we'll share what we can when we can. Excited for the arrival of a new NY talent.

Vince Clicks the Viral - Bill Cosby Covers the Beatles

2012-02-11T12:17:00.000-05:00

It sounds exactly how you think it would...

You Wont: Three Car Garage

2012-02-10T18:53:00.000-05:00

Next week marks the widespread release of You Won't's album Skeptic Goodbye - courtesy of our buds at Old Flame Records. We loved them at CMJ and have high hopes for them heading into SXSW.

Check Out The Kills on Letterman - "The Last Goodbye"

2012-02-10T11:30:00.000-05:00

(Also) Tonight: Summer Camp in Brooklyn

2012-02-07T12:02:00.002-05:00

[mp3] Summer Camp: "Better Off Without You"

It's been a quick moment since we checked in on our friends from the UK Summer Camp. Last year saw the release of their highly lauded debut album 'Welcome to Condale.' It's always an event when they make it to the states - so if you missed them last night at Mercury Lounge, you can catch them tonight at Glasslands. See you there. Just listening to the song above should be enough to convince you it's worth it.

Tonight: Bahamas in the East Village

2012-02-07T10:16:00.005-05:00

[mp3] Bahamas: "I Got You Babe"

We've been watching the development of Bahamas, aka Afie Jurvanen, since his last outing Pink Strat. Today Bahamas drops Barchords via Jack Johnson's Brushfire Records, and plays a release day show at the Mercury Lounge at 7pm. From all accounts, Jurvanen is a captivating live performer and we're looking forward to checking out the show and continuing to dig into Barchords. You can get a sense of the organic approach Jurvanen takes to his writing in the below EPK... and approach that translates directly to his warm and engaging recordings.

Ladyhawke is Back with "Black White & Blue"

2012-02-06T13:56:00.001-05:00

This is excellent:

Filmed in Auckland in late 2011, the video was directed by Tabitha Denholm, who has previously worked with Florence & The Machine.

The 'Black White & Blue' video is a homage to the 1970's classic film 'The Eyes Of Laura Mars', starring Faye Dunaway.

Anxiety will be out in the US on March 27th via Modular/Casablanca Records.

Vince Clicks the Viral Part II - Learn Karate in 1986

2012-02-04T17:00:00.000-05:00

This is how I learned Karate when I was born...

Vince Clicks the Viral - Dog + Receipt

2012-02-03T18:39:00.000-05:00

Cute.

New M.I.A Video: "Bad Girls"

2012-02-03T11:24:00.000-05:00

Then - there's also this:

Sophia Knapp: "Close to Me"

2012-02-03T08:53:00.000-05:00

[mp3] Sophia Knapp: "Close to Me"

I'm pretty sure I'm not listening to enough new disco stuff. I dabbled in the fleeting joy that was Music Go Music. God, that was a slick band. Not sure whatever happened to them. Sophia Knapp captures that pseudo-indie disco vibe of the late 70s... you know when those great artists you loved from the 60s moved to LA and started making really polished and coked out new music. I don't mean that to detract from Knapp at all, this is a super tasty little pop nugget, complete with wistful vocals, compelling melodies and a clear Stevie Nicks infatuation. Sophia Knapp’s Into the Waves is out February 28th on Drag City. Sophia plays her record release show in New York on Wed. Feb. 29th at Sway.

Rhye: “Open”

2012-02-02T15:05:00.001-05:00

We're very intrigued by this lovely little tune from the duo Rhye. Fader writes: "they’re both members of other (possibly well-known) bands. Her voice may be recognizable to some: it’s immaculate." We're going with Sade. That's my final answer. Video to follow next week, the EP comes 2/7 on Innovative Leisure.

Mark Lanegan: "The Gravedigger’s Song"

2012-01-31T13:59:00.001-05:00

[mp3] Mark Lanegan: "The Gravedigger's Song"

While nowhere near true experts on Mark Lanegan's full career catalog dating back to his role as frontman for Screaming Trees, his new album Blues Funeral (2/7 4AD) has been on fairly constant rotation at Stark HQ. Dark, brooding, dramatic and well-written Blues Funeral's lead track "The Gravedigger’s Song" got the video treatment last week directed by Alistair Legrand and produced by Jack Richardson.

New Single from POND - "Moth Wings"

2012-01-31T13:38:00.001-05:00

We've been hearing about Australia's very own POND for some time now. They just released "Moth Wings," the second single from their upcoming record, Beard, Wives, Denim out March 6 on Modular Recordings. Dig it above. Has some balls eh?

Vince Clicks the Viral - Demi Moore Wasted

2012-01-27T16:00:00.002-05:00

This is my new series...hope you enjoy. When you see videos in this column, they have or definitely will, click the 'viral' button. You want the viral? This is a one-stop-shop.

Marisa Monte Announces New Album

2012-01-27T08:34:00.000-05:00

If you've never heard of Marisa Monte, and tell that to a Brazilian, they will look at you as if you said you had never heard of Madonna. Monte has amassed stellar catalog dating back to 1989 and can easily sell out the Beacon in New York, despite not yet being a household US name. Monte has collaborated with the biggest names in Brazilian music, and of course, Brazil's un-offical US ambassador David Byrne. The facts are staggering: "The “Infinito Ao Meu Redor” worldwide tour... hit 140 shows throughout 50 cities in 15 countries across 4 continents. Monte has sold 9 million albums and won 3 Latin Grammy Awards. She was named the most important living Brazilian singer by Rolling Stone Brazil."Today, in exciting news, Monte announced the release of O Que Você Quer Saber De Verdade (“What You Really Want To Know”) due March 27th on Blue Note Records. All the pertinent info is below (from the press release).

O Que Você Quer Saber De Verdade was produced by Monte with co-producer Dadi and recorded in Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, Buenos Aires, Los Angeles and New York. The album features musicians such as the Oscar-winning multi-instrumentalist Gustavo Santaolalla, the Brazilian power trio Nação Zumbi, Argentinean tango group Café de los Maestros, a duet with Rodrigo Amarante of the Brazilian-American super group Little Joy, and a string ensemble performing arrangements by the American maestros Greg Cohen and Miguel Atwood-Ferguson. The album features songs penned by Monte along with long-time musical partners Arnaldo Antunes, Carlinhos Brown and Dadi. Monte also covers some of her favorite artists including Jorge Ben (“Descalço no Parque”) and a version of the classic tango “Lencinho Querido” by Juan de Dios Filiberto and Gabino Coria Penaloza.

New Video: The War on Drugs - "Brothers"

2012-01-26T12:14:00.002-05:00

The War on Drugs - Brothers from Secretly Jag on Vimeo.

How ironic?

Trust: "Sulk"

2012-01-26T07:35:00.000-05:00

We had this post flagged last week, but of course, being the lazy bloggers we are, we sat on it and now P4K named it best new track, and now we just look like those schmucky second rate guys that... ANYWAY! This is a solid song that according to Larry Fitzmaurice is "slithery" enough to use that adjective twice in one review... but we digress. "Sulk" doesn't rewrite the book on goth-synth, but is solid enough to file next to your recent Cold Cave albums, which is very good company indeed. Trust also features Maya Postepski from the excellent, and underrated Austra. Not sure how the album is, and we will not post that heinous cover art, but we're looking forward to it. Trst drops 2/28 on Arts & Crafts.

The New Twilight Sad Tune Rips

2012-01-25T08:10:00.000-05:00

[mp3] Twilight Sad: "Another Bed"

Today we got a taste of the new Twilight Sad song "Another Bed" and it's fantastic. Their past material had a tendency for slower post-punk dirges interspersed with several excellent more pop-minded songs. Yet, with today's track, it seems that these scots have take a turn for the new and exciting, which makes us extremely excited for the new album No One Can Ever Know which comes out Feb 7. Enjoy the unsettling video above, and check out the cool items they have for pre-order.

New Saint Etienne "Tonight"

2012-01-24T13:43:00.003-05:00

Admittedly, we missed Saint Etienne in their prime (not our fault) - but have reaped the benefits of their amazing catalog due to the recent re-issues and crate digging through various "used" piles. Luckily, we have a taste of new music from them for the fist time in 7 years. Via P4K:

St. Etienne's Bob Stanley (who has contributed to Pitchfork) says the track is "about the anticipation of going to see your favourite artist. For some reason, I imagine this show is at the Forum in Kentish Town. The whole album is about the power of pop, how it affects and shapes your life. People talk about the problem of landfill indie, but there's so much landfill pop around at the moment - we're trying to do something about it."

Keeping Up With Norah Jones

2012-01-24T11:44:00.000-05:00

Today Norah Jones announced the release of her new album Little Broken Hearts (Blue Note/EMI), a collaboration with the producer and musician Danger Mouse, dropping this spring. Of course, this partnership was formed during their collaboration on the much acclaimed album ROME. Jones and Danger Mouse share the songwriting credits and perform the majority of the instrumental parts; Jones on piano, keyboards, bass, and guitar, and Danger Mouse contributing drums, bass, guitar, keyboards, and string arrangements. Norah Jones will be touring heavily around this release leading into the summer festival season. Jones advocates will lobby that pairing with Danger Mouse is the final step to establishing true critical "credibility" while detractors will argue that this album pairs a sleepy artist with an even sleepy-er producer. The test will be in the material!

On a more jovial, and Stark-focused front, we've been loving The Little Willies' (Jones' country side project) new album For The Good Times out now (Blue Note / EMI). As honest lovers of the original versions of these songs, we feel comfortable stating that there are not many artists out there who could do justice to these tunes, but somehow the Willies manage to capture the true nature of these songs without sounding hoakey (for the most part). Besides being ace pickers, these folks (Jones, Richard Julian, Jim Campilongo, Dan Rieser, Lee Alexander) truly love and understand these songs inside and out - and in the covers game, that makes all the difference. Highly recommended. The below video of "Jolene" is dedicated to my roommates, and our Christmas tree. RIP.

New Video: Sleigh Bells - "Comeback Kid"

2012-01-24T08:42:00.000-05:00

Get More: Sleigh Bells, Comeback Kid, Music, More Music Videos

Reign of Terror releases February 21st via Mom+Pop Records.

Azealia Banks Signs to Universal

2012-01-18T16:28:00.004-05:00

[mp3] Azealia Banks: "212"

[mp3] Azealia Banks: "Runnin"

By far the most written about artist to watch in 2012, Azealia Banks, has inked a deal today with Universal Records. VIA Pitchfork:

"I want to do this thing-- and I don't even really know what the fuck 'this thing' is yet-- but considering how ambitious my ideas are musically, I definitely need a label that will really get it out there. I'm not really scared of major labels. I just want to work where I'm allowed to make mistakes and do my own thing rather than get into a situation where someone else has their own agenda of what they want me to be."

New Santigold (Finally): "Big Mouth"

2012-01-18T12:53:00.000-05:00

Santigold was one of the first Artist to Watch pieces we ever wrote for Stark. That was a long time ago. For an artist of her stature, it was near shocking the amount of time she spent without releasing proper new material. But, today is that day. On the back of reportedly spectacular MHOW shows, Santigold has dropped a new track and video today. "Big Mouth" is tribal and rhythmic, two traits easily characterized by Santi's early work. Yet, this is grittier, meaner, modern, and a little less pop oriented. Not sure if it's a hit, but it's a cool first look for someone out of the spotlight for too long. New album coming this spring. Download the single at santigold.com

Stream Laura Gibson's La Grande in Full

2012-01-18T11:36:00.000-05:00

[mp3] Laura Gibson: "La Grande"

Long has Laura Gibson been the purveyor of hushed folk melodies imbued with a distinct poignancy and maturity that set her apart from her peers. Gibson does not deviate from this formula on her new record for Barsuk, La Grande, that comes out next week (1/24). There's a stillness to these songs, that makes the record accessible only to those with the patience to actually listen. While that may not garner much attention in the world of 30 second streaming sound bites, well rewarded are the consumers that choose to sit with this record on a quiet morning or late evening and enjoy it for all of its quiet charms. Stream La Grande in full at NPR. Laura Gibson plays The Mercury Lounge in NY on 1/30. Tour dates after the jump.

Laura Gibson | 2012 US Tour Dates
1/13/12 - Michelberger Hotel - Berlin, DE
1/14/12 - Ballhof 1 - Hannover, DE ^
1/16/12 - The Social - London, UK ^
1/18/12 - Point Ephemare - Paris, FR ^
1/20/12 - Botanique - Brussels, BE ^
1/21/12 - Paradiso - Amsterdam, NL ^
1/25/12 - TT The Bears - Boston, MA !
1/26/12 - Johnny Brendas - Philadelphia, PA #
1/27/12 - Iota - Alexandria, VA #
1/28/12 - Attucks Theater - Norfolk, VA #
1/30/12 - Mercury Lounge - NYC, NY *
2/03/12 - Mississippi Studios - Portland, OR **
2/04/12 - Tractor Tavern - Seattle, WA ***
2/05/12 - Free In-Store @ House Of Records (3pm) - Eugene, OR
2/06/12 - Bottom of The Hill - San Francisco, CA**
2/07/12 - Muddy Waters - Santa Barbara, CA **
2/08/12 - Echo - Los Angeles, CA **
2/09/12 - Pappy & Harriet's - Joshua Tree, CA **
2/10/12 - Plush - Tucson, AZ **
2/11/12 - Marfa Book Store - Marfa, TX **
2/12/12 - The Mohawk - Austin, TX **
2/13/12 - Fitzgerald's - Houston, TX **
2/14/12 - Dan's Silverleaf - Denton, TX **
2/15/12 - Opolis - Norman, OK **
2/16/12 - Low Spirits - Albuquerque, NM **
2/17/12 - High Dive - Denver, CO **
2/18/12 - Kilby Court - Salt Lake City, UT **
2/19/12 - Neurolux - Boise, ID **

^ with Dear Reader
! with Willy Mason
# with Cotton Jones
* with Alexa Wilding
** with Breathe Owl Breathe
*** with Grand Hallway & Devil Whale

New Track: K.Flay - "Sunburn"

2012-01-17T11:36:00.009-05:00

K.Flay - “Sunburn” by Consequence of Sound

San Francisco's K.Flay is back with a new track, "Sunburn" off her upcoming EP, Eyes Shut, dropping on Jan. 31.

Dig it above!

New Track: School of Seven Bells - "Lafaye"

2012-01-12T10:23:00.000-05:00

In addition to the amazing artists Matt has recently written about below, School of Seven Bells' third record, Ghostory is quickly becoming one of our most highly anticipated albums of 2012; it drops on 2/28 via Vagrant Records. After being given our first taste with "The Night," we knew there was something big coming. Now, the band has just released "Lafaye," which confirms this assertion. This record is going to be huge and we can't wait to hear more.

Electric Guest: "This Head I Hold"

2012-01-11T18:50:00.003-05:00

Already hailed by, us of course, as a big winner from CMJ - Downtown's Electric Guest have dropped their Danger Mouse produced first single for "This Head I Hold." While we still think the singer is a little schticky - the song has a great original soul-pop sound, and is a SOLID first look from a band you'll be hearing a lot from this year.

New Video from Charli XCX "Stay Away"

2012-01-11T14:36:00.000-05:00

[mp3] Charli XCX: "Nuclear Seasons"

[mp3] Charli XCX: "Stay Away"

This is one of our favorite new artists for 2012. The two songs we have "Nuclear Seasons" and "Stay Away" are EXCELLENT. Right now, Grimes still holds the #1 new artist in 2012 spot for us, but depending on what Charli XCX comes up with in the next few weeks, she could present a big challenge.

Justin Townes Earle Announces New Record

2012-01-11T08:16:00.000-05:00

[mp3] Justin Townes Earle: "Nothing's Gonna Change The Way You Feel About Me Know"

Longtime Stark staple, and sometime neighbor Justin Townes Earle, today announced the release of his new record, Nothing's Gonna Change the Way You Feel About Me Now, on 3/27 via Bloodshot. The trailer is above, and the title track is there too. Go to his site and drop your email in the box!

New Porcelain Raft: "Unless You Speak From The Heart"

2012-01-10T11:47:00.000-05:00

We've been spending these first few fruitful weeks of the new year with some excellent January releases spinning on our iPhones, notably the debut record Strange Weekend from Porcelain Raft, aka Italian born artist Mauro Remiddi. Strange Weekend is a diverse amalgamation of Remiddi's influences and the varied countries he calls home. Yet underneath these stylistic differences is a commitment to melody and song-craft, which helps make Strange Weekend one of the stronger records of the first quarter. Stream his new track "Unless You Speak From Your Heart" below.

Porcelain Raft - Unless You Speak From Your Heart by DOJAGSC

Vince's Best of 2011: The Year of the 'Indie-Overground'

2012-01-04T08:40:00.003-05:00

2011 could very easily be hailed as the year of 'indie-overground' take over. With artists such as Bon Iver, Lana Del Rey, Adele, Foster the People, The Decembrists, My Morning Jacket, Cults, and James Blake gracing top spots on many a best of list, it is clear there is a seismic shift occurring amongst the indie-music zeitgeist. Let me preface my next comment by clearly stating that all of the aforementioned artists are truly talented and could have very well made the best records of 2011. However, the ease at which popularity befell this group of artists is not to be overlooked as they toed the line between indie and mainstream.

Arguments befuddle our industry over what is 'cool' and what is mainstream on a daily basis; the above artists (and many more) that can be labeled part of the 'indie-overground,' have found success in being the IT indie artist. They are what popular opinion has deemed worthy of 'cool' and somehow, though contradictory at times, devoid of the 'major label machine.' Words such as 'organic,' and 'grassroots' are slung back and forth amongst avid consumers describing the ways in which this music is selling. Does grassroots simply mean someone telling another person a record or artist is cool? What about the music? What about the album as a whole? The lyrics? The album art? Aren't we all here because of the music? Adele, the music has always been there, but people just started paying attention.

Since Arcade Fire's massive Grammy win last year, coupled with the continued successes of bands like Mumford & Sons and Adele, the music world was already looking ahead to find their 2011 indie-music darlings. Accolades abound, it is clear they have found this in Adele and Bon Iver. And before Arcade Fire, it was Vampire Weekend and MGMT. Without belaboring the point and to get to the crux of my statement, there was, as there always is, a multitude of fantastic records released this year that fell to the shadow of these musical behemoths, hidden behind labels of 'cool'. I hope to have done at least some of these artists justice, by including them in my year end list.

Check out my top 25 records of 2011 after the jump.

Vince's Top 25 Albums of 2011:

Lykke Li - Wounded Rhymes
tUne-yArDs - w h o k i l l
Youth Lagoon - The Year of Hibernation
The Naked and Famous - Passive Me, Agressive You
Drive By Truckers - Go-Go-Boots
M83 - Hurry Up, We're Dreaming
Foo Fighters - Wasting Light
Cut Copy - Zonoscope
Wild Flag - Wild Flag
Fleet Foxes - Helplessness Blues
White Denim - D
The Pains of Being Pure at Heart - Belong
The Kills - Blood Pressures
Gang Gang Dance - Eye Contact
Middle Brother - Middle Brother
The Vaccines - What Did You Expect From the Vaccines?
Yuck - Yuck
Dominant Legs - Invitation
Holy Ghost! - Holy Ghost!
Blitzen Trapper - American Goldwing
Black Lips - Arabia Mountain
Star Slinger - Rogue Cho Pa
Tennis - Cape Dory
Bibio - Mind Bokeh
K.Flay - I Stopped Caring in '96 EPs

Honorable Mention:

Adele - 21

The Rural Alberta Advantage - The Departed

Black Keys - El Camino

Ryan Adams - Ashes and Fire

Girls - Father, Son, Holy Ghost

Laura Marling - A Creature I Don't Know

St. Vincent - Strange Mercy

Cass McCombs - Wit's End

Feist - Metals

Rubik - Solar

MATT'S TOP 40 ALBUMS OF THE YEAR

2012-01-03T07:01:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year folks - sorry it took so long to post this... we needed some nice time off.

I'm not really sure what to make of this year. We seemed a little distracted, more argumentative, and fragmented. While there were frequent pleasures, and the fantastic highlights you find below, the critical mass seemed often too quick to elevate inferior content to ever-heightening levels of indie-rock stardom. Critical gatekeepers seemed too willing to settle, to accept as "great" hazy instrumentals, bedroom producers lacking vision, and in general, the absence of sharp songwriting in the critical mainstream. For as underwhelming as Bon Iver's massive album was - at least the album was bold - a step out - and a piece of work thought-out, conceived, and executed.

Yet, 2011 is ultimately notable for its commercial success stories, its quiet moments, its burgeoning country music marketplace, and the year people began to finally play some real electric guitar again. Gone were flash-in-the-pan distractions like Salem, the whole "beach rock" scene, and for the most part "chillwave."

The Weeknd emerged as a talented, versatile, and outright remarkable producer. The question remains, what can he do to focus his expertise and create something truly great next year?

There were refreshing returns to form from stalwart vets like Wild Flag, Gillian Welch and Ryan Adams, remarkable consistency from Kurt Vile, pure songs from Girls, and a standout, creative, knock-your-socks off sophomore record from tUnE-yArDs. The city of Nashville stood front and center - with releases from Tristen, Caitlin Rose, Jonny Corndawg, Nikki Lane, Those Darlins (by association), and Jeff the Brotherhood.

We listened to a ton of music, liked a bunch of it, and generally had a swell year.

Below is what we liked the best - enjoy folks.

Honorable Mention
Wilco - The Whole Love
Jonny Corndawg - Down on the Bikini Line
Nikki Lane - Walk of Shame
Pistol Annies - Hell on Heels
Veronica Falls - S/T
Caitlin Rose - Own Side Now (included in last year's list)
Foo Fighters - Wasted Light
Old 97s - The Grand Theater Vol II
Tom Waits - Bad As Me
Jason Isbell - Here We Rest
Tristen - Charlatans at the Garden Gate (we officially recuse ourselves from putting this on our regular list because we've lived with these songs so long and have worked w/ her in the past. BUY IT. It's Amazing.)

TOP 40
40. The Antlers - Burst Apart
39. Youth Lagoon - The Year of Hibernation
38. Middle Brother - S/T
37. Blitzen Trapper - American Goldwing
36. Jessica Lea Mayfield - Tell Me
35. Zola Jesus - Conatus
34. Wye Oak - Civilian
33. The Naked and Famous - Passive Me, Aggressive You
32. Gem Club - Breakers
31. M83 - Hurry Up We're Dreaming
30. Cut Copy - Zonoscope
29. Paul Simon - So Beautiful or So What
28. Fleet Foxes - Helplessness Blues
27. Miranda Lambert - Four The Record
26. Laura Marling - A Creature I Don't Know
25. War on Drugs - Slave Ambient
24. St. Vincent - Strange Mercy
23. Pains of Being Pure at Heart - Belong
22. Craft Spells - Idle Labor
21. Girls - Father, Son, Holy Ghost

TOP 20
20. Ambrose Akinmusire -When The Heart Emerges Glistening
19. Lykke Li - Wounded Rhymes
18. Young Galaxy - Shapeshifting
17. Ryan Adams - Ashes and Fire
16. Gillian Welch - The Harrow and the Harvest
15. Hayes Carll - KMAG YOYO
14. Kurt Vile - Smoke Ring for My Halo
13. Gang Gang Dance - Eye Contact
12. Wild Flag - S/T
11. Black Keys - El Camino

10. The Caretaker - An Empty Bliss Beyond This World

9. Regina - Soita Mulle

8. White Denim - D

7. Feist - Metals

6. King Creosote & Jon Hopkins - Diamond Mine

5. Drive-by Truckers - Go Go Boots

This is Drive-by Truckers 1000th album. I can't wait to hear my favorite ear splitting guitar attack, Brad Morgan's thudding floor tom, and Cooley's snarling rock growl. Wait. What the hell is this. Dobro? Brushes? Oh shit. This record's good. No, I mean really good. What are these songs? Who is this band? Damn that story about the reverend murdering his wife with the fireplace poker is pretty fucked up. Is this an Eddie Hinton cover? Man, I love that guy. Shana sounds pretty tight on these vocals. Is "Pulaski" my favorite Cooley song?? Does the girl kill herself in the end? "Good ideas always start with a full glass" I wish I had written that line. Wow is "Used to Be a Cop" the best song Patterson's written? Who is this band? Shit, this record's good. No, I mean really good.

4. Fucked Up - David Comes to Life

I've been told by those in the hardcore world (who are also fans of Fucked Up) that this is a "pussy hardcore record." They are quick to add the caveat that it's still really excellent. I don't know hardcore that well. I do know that this is a great album. Anyone with ears - regardless of their allegiances - can put on this massive, sprawling record (loud of course) and be completely sold on this band. From its bold length, to the crystal clear pop choruses (sung through an immaculate scream) David Comes to Life excels because of its passion and audacity. In the end, the record becomes devoid of genre, a true sign of a great album.

3. Destroyer - Kaputt

Switching to the first person here... I took a big risk in liking this record. As a big Destroyer fan in general, I, for the most part, knew what I was getting into. Yet, I was shocked at how much I didn't like on this album. The slick production, and those saxophones, oh god, the saxophones. But, there was something under the surface here that kept me coming back. An undercurrent of rhythm, excellent song structures, and a full album mood that hooked me. Writing at this moment, I still am not sure why I like this album as much as I do, given there are so many things my brain is telling me NOT to like about it. Maybe it's those contradictions that keep me coming back, but I'm pretty sure it's the consistency, the devotion to the whole album in and of itself that puts Kaputt at my #3 spot this year.

2. tUnE-yArDs - w h o k i l l

Merrill Garbus has crafted one of the most creative and unique sounds we have heard in years. Where Adele wears her influences on her sleeve, Garbus is a tour-de-force of originality, talent and spontaneity. From her fearless, face painted live shows to the passion she is remarkably capable of capturing on record tUnE-yArDs are making the freshest and most satisfying music out there right now. The songs are great, the execution is impeccable and, much like Adele - you'd be hard pressed to find many in the populace at large who have an axe to grind with such a captivating and talented frontwoman.

1. Adele - 21

It's a rare thing... to watch a star be born in front of your eyes. Someone timeless. Not a Bieber or Gaga who epitomize and own their specific moment in history. We can always place the legions of boy bands in their proper eras, just as we will always place Madonna in the 80s and Britney Spears in the late 90s. But what of Adele and 21?

In many ways, 21 is the ultimate realization of a sound and a movement that began with Amy Winehouse and spread throughout the Duffys and Lily Allens of the world. A sound deep rooted in the past, but remarkably modern in its execution and production. It's huge, it's intimate, it's bold and comforting at the same time.

And of course, you have Adele herself. Full of whiskey, cigarettes, cutting lyrics and bravado, while at the same moment shy and publicly crippled by stage freight. Adele straddles the line between mysterious rock star and the persona that has made her the global every-woman. Her career and sound are filled with seemingly irreconcilable contradictions, yet the world adores her and 21 is a marvelous album. While not without its minor flaws, this is a TIMELESS record that your children will buy, and their children after that. This is the full arrival of a new force that (if healthy) will be around for a long time. 21 is an important record, and demands the album of the year title.

James Blake: "A Case of You"

2011-12-19T11:05:00.002-05:00

[mp3] James Blake: "The Wilhelm Scream"

We've been notoriously critical in regards to the heaps of praise lumped on James Blake's debut record. It's not that we thought it was bad per se, just that, despite its two or three highlights, the album wasn't as good as everyone thought it was. All that being said, when alone with a piano, Blake can be heartbreaking and truly outstanding. Nowhere is that more apparent than on his cover of Joni Mitchell's absolute classic "A Case of You" which deservingly received the full video treatment, and is included on his recent EP Enough Thunder, that has gotten far more play around here than his actual debut. What's it say though when your two best songs are covers?

New Video: Arcade Fire - "Sprawl II (Mountains Beyond Mountains)"

2011-12-16T15:58:00.001-05:00

We are excited to see a video spring up for this track, easily one of our favorites from Arcade Fire's latest release, The Suburbs. Odd video, but that is to be expected. Enjoy your weekend.

Blonds - "206" NSFW?

2011-12-16T10:59:00.000-05:00

[mp3] Blonds: "Kite"

We stumbled upon this video in our internet trolling yesterday - I mean, we'll watch anything NSFW... We'd been meaning to check out the Florida-based (actually dating) couple Blonds for weeks, but hey - the world is a busy place. While what you see and hear above can be fairly easily passed over in the din of blog bands, there is something strongly noteworthy about Blonds honed songcraft and melodic sense that makes their music more than your typical electro/gauzy buzz band fare.You can download their excellent free EP Dark Roots HERE.

Lucero Announces Women & Work Tour 2012

2011-12-15T16:35:00.000-05:00

[mp3] Lucero: "She's Just That Kind of Girl"

We're extremely excited about the announcement of Lucero's new record and debut for ATO Women & Work due this March - supported by a massive tour. Supporters include J. Roddy Walston and William Elliot Whitmore, and the tour includes a co-headline with Built to Spill. Dates after the jump. Of the new album Ben Nichols says: "This record is Lucero doing what we do best. It's one part barrelhouse Rock & Roll and one part lonesome nights. The thing is, we are having more fun than ever playing both on stage and off and I think that shows on this album."
2/23 - Hot Springs, AR @ Maxine's Pub*
2/24 - Fayetteville, AR @ George's Majestic Lounge*
2/25 - Fayetteville, AR @ George's Majestic Lounge
3/01 - Girdwood, AK @ The Sitzmark Bar & Grill / Aleyska
3/02 - Girdwood, AK @ The Sitzmark Bar & Grill / Aleyska
3/03 - Girdwood, AK @ The Sitzmark Bar & Grill / Aleyska
3/09 - Louisville, KY @ Headliners Music Hall^
3/10 - Birmingham, AL @ Zydeco^
3/11 - New Orleans, LA @ Tipitina's Uptown^
3/12 - Houston, TX @ Fitzgerald's Upstairs #
3/14 - Dallas, TX @ Trees^
3/19 - Phoenix, AZ @ The Crescent Ballroom
3/20 - Solana Beach, CA @ The Belly Up Tavern
3/21 - Los Angeles, CA @ Music Box
3/23 - San Francisco, CA @ The Fillmore
3/24 - Portland, OR @ Wonder Ballroom
3/25 - Seattle, WA @ Neumos
3/28 - Salt Lake City, UT @ Urban Lounge**
3/29 - Fort Collins, CO @ Aggie Theater**
3/30 - Denver, CO @ Bluebird Theater**
3/31 - Denver, CO @ Bluebird Theater**
4/01 - Colorado Springs, CO @ The Black Sheep**
4/03 - Rock Island, IL @ Rock Island Brewing Company^
4/04 - Minneapolis, MN @ First Avenue^
4/05 - Madison, WI @ Majestic Theater^
4/06 - Milwaukee, WI @ Turner Hall^
4/07 - Chicago, IL @ Metro^
4/09 - Columbus, OH @ The Bluestone^
4/11 - Cincinnati, OH @ Bogart's^
4/12 - Cleveland Heights, OH @ Grog Shop^
4/13 - Detroit, MI @ Magic Stick^
4/14 - Toronto, ONT @ Lee's Palace^^
4/15 - Montreal, QUE @ Les Foufounes Electriques^^
4/18 - Northampton, MA @ Pearl Street Nightclub^^
4/20 - New York, NY @ Webster Hall^^
4/21 - Pawtucket, RI @ The Met Cafe^^
4/24 - Harrisburg, PA @ Abbey Bar at Appalachian Brewing
4/25 - Washington, D.C. @ 9:30 Club
4/26 - Richmond, VA @ The Hat Factory^^
4/27 - Asheville, NC @ The Orange Peel^^
4/28 - Atlanta, GA @ The Masquerade - Heaven Stage^^

* w/ Adam Faucett and The Tall Grass# w/ Built To Spill and Dinosaur Feathers^ w/ William Elliot Whitmore** w/ Larry and His Flask^^ w/ J. Roddy Walston & The Business

Stream New Sleigh Bells - "Born To Lose"

2011-12-15T15:27:00.003-05:00

Well, the sound is big huh? Everyone is being "Born" to do something apparently these days.

Lana Del Rey Debuts "Born to Die" Video

2011-12-14T16:16:00.003-05:00

[mp3] Lana Del Rey: "Video Games"

The new video from one of the most interesting and polarizing artists since Odd Future. To compare a relatively mom-friendly artist and Odd Future in the same sentence, is the exact proof as to why Lana Del Rey is so intriguing. Her debut drops Jan 31 on Interscope and is forecasted to sell upwards of 50,000 copies.

Marissa Nadler Video: "In Your Lair Bear"

2011-12-14T13:27:00.000-05:00

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

Marissa Nadler's new video for "In Your Lair Bear" from one of our favorite records of the year. List coming soon! Marissa Nadler is out now.

2nd Cloud Nothings Single "Stay Useless"

2011-12-12T13:26:00.000-05:00

[mp3] Cloud Nothings: "Stay Useless"

Now this is more like it. We get it. The first single "No Future / No Past" was attention grabbing. It was different; a sludgey departure for these pop-hook minded guitar slingers. That song was cool - but you don't listen to it more than twice really. Today, we get a solid core album track in "Stay Useless" our second look from Cloud Nothings' Attack on Memory, out January 24 on Carpark. It's raw and new but reminds us of why we loved this Cleveland group in the first place.

One to Watch: The Minutes

2011-12-12T09:58:00.000-05:00

The Minutes - Black Keys (Official Video) from The Minutes on Vimeo.

The Minutes, a trio hailing from Dublin, Ireland, were raised on punk rock a la The Smiths, Stooges and as quoted by the press release, "70s NYC punk." It is clear that this band is composed of equal parts grit, grunge, and rock. The lead single of their upcoming self-titled US debut EP, "Black Keys" is not to be confused with the band Black Keys, though The Minutes' sound can be easily likened to them. Early Kings of Leon meets, the Black Keys, meets, 90s grunge rock -- it is clear The Minutes are musically diverse. We at Stark are jumping on this band early; if done right by label Model Citizen Records, The Minutes are poised to break out of the Irish doldrums and explode on to the US rock scene...a scene truly lacking in quality, quantity and passion these days. Put them on your list for SXSW folks.

Black Keys by The Minutes

Friday Dose of Awesome: Jamey Johnson

2011-12-09T18:35:00.001-05:00

New Modular Signing: Pond

2011-12-08T16:42:00.001-05:00

[mp3] Pond: "Fantastic Explosion of Time"

As a rule, we pretty much read every press release from Modular. A consistent roster of quality talent makes you a gatekeeper, and earns you trust. Sometimes, with an inbox full of hundreds of emails, that's all you have the energy to rely on. It's just the way it goes.

But it doesn't gain you a free pass. Pond, the side project of Nick Allbrook and Jay Watson of the excellent Tame Impala, have teamed with Joseph Ryan to produce the full length Beard Wives Denim (Modular, 3/5) "recorded in a ramshackle farmhouse over two weeks in early 2010, right before Tame Impala started blowing up." The first track is filled with sick psych melodies and guitar squall... I mean, just look at the song title.

It's Finally Nite Jewel's Time

2011-12-08T09:37:00.001-05:00

This could finally be Ramona Gonzalez's year. Not that she's been having a rough go of it... Producing tons of music under her Nite Jewel moniker, she's turned heads not so much by one stellar record or song, but by the potential everyone saw in her work to date. With her new composition "One Second of Love" the title track of her album dropping March 6 on Secretly Canadian, it seems Gonzalez has finally focused her sound, and with a true LP to work inside of an actual album cycle this could be Nite Jewel's opportunity to hit the "mainstream" indie community. The promise of the lead track is enough to have us thoroughly excited to hear the full LP. Read our interview w/ Nite Jewel HERE.

One Second Of Love by Nite Jewel

New Sounds: Lianna La Havas

2011-12-06T13:54:00.001-05:00

Quickly rising in prominence in the UK behind a stellar Jools Holland appearance, 22 year old Londoner Lianne La Havas will travel stateside in 2012 to tour with Bon Iver behind the release of her 'Lost and Found' EP which came out 11/22. With sultry, smooth, and crystal clear vocals, it will be very interesting to watch Havas' path to success in the coming months. Very talented new artist.

Lianne La Havas - No Room For Doubt by PluggedIn

Wake Bake Skate

2011-12-06T13:13:00.001-05:00

[mp3] FIDLAR: "Wake Bake Skate"

FIDLAR were the big winners of CMJ 2011 - and we wholeheartedly love these stoner skater punks from LA with the hookiest songs we've heard in a minute. Today, VICE debuted their new video for single "Wake Bake Skate." Watch for a signing announcement from these kids soon to go along with an eventual album and tour in 2012. They have an EP out now. Grab it.

Bowerbirds Announce New Album: The Clearing

2011-12-05T15:21:00.001-05:00

[mp3] Bowerbirds: "Tuck the Darkness In"

The internet is a fickle place, and one of the biggest problems we have with blogs, is their extremely short memory and, at times, lack of faith in the long term careers of artists. Now - of course - this is a two way street. We'll care about bands that make second and third albums worth caring about. That rule is paramount. While we're no saints here when it comes to blogging - we think a band worth standing by for the long run is Bowerbirds.

The duo of Beth Tacular and Phil Moore came to prominence on the back of a standout debut album, but have been quietly hibernating in North Carolina, nursing physical and relationship wounds, and walking dogs after tirelessly touring behind their second album Upper Air. As these things of course go, the band was busy recording their bigger and more adventurous third album, The Clearing, announced last week with a release date of March 6th via Dead Oceans. We're psyched to hear it, and we hope the rest of the press world is as well. The new song "Tuck the Darkness In" is very very lovely.

Because We Love Posting Yelle Videos

2011-12-05T15:04:00.001-05:00

Seriously, what good reason do we have NOT to post this? Yeah, it's more than a week old, but there are pink uni-suits (insert camel-toe joke), the song kicks fucking ass, and it seems like Yelle is making some sort of play to be the French Gaga. All of which we're totally on board with. So, here's "Comme Un Enfant" from her newest Safari Disco Club.

Comme un enfant by YELLE

New School of Seven Bells Track - "The Night"

2011-12-05T14:19:00.002-05:00

School of Seven Bells - The Night by Vagrant Records

The new album from School of Seven Bells, Ghostory, is due on 2/28/12 via Vagrant Records. We can't say enough of about the pure talent of this group; they make a indie-genre of their own with amazing melodies, great vocal harmonies and electro-samples/beats that never sound stale. From Alpinisms in 2009, to Disconnect from Desire in 2010, School of Seven Bells have been top contenders on every end-of-year Best of List. Their newest single, "The Night" was first heard through Stark ears live at Cameo a few months ago; talk about an ear-worm, we recognized it again immediately. Looking forward to this release folks. Big time.

New Lana Del Rey - "Born To Die"

2011-12-02T08:49:00.002-05:00

Soooo buzzy right now...

New Video: YACHT - "I Walked Alone"

2011-11-30T15:02:00.000-05:00

Yacht releases their newest video for "I Walked Alone" off their recent LP Shangri-La. While we are still fans, it is clear Yacht are struggling to regain the buzz they established with their debut album See Mystery Lights. Keep it moving!

New Video: Charli XCX - "Nuclear Seasons"

2011-11-28T08:34:00.000-05:00

This released over the Thanksgiving break. Blast it to get back in to the swing of things. Check out more about Charli XCX HERE.

New Sharon Van Etten: "Serpents"

2011-11-23T10:27:00.001-05:00

[mp3] Sharon Van Etten: "Serpents"

We've already written about Sharon Van Etten's new album Tramp, dropping Feb 7 on Secretly Canadian. Today, we get the first taste from that record in the form of "Serpents" - a concise, tight, piece of songwriting that wouldn't have been out of place on her fabulous last record 'Epic.'

Yours Truly Does Grimes: "Oblivion"

2011-11-21T17:04:00.001-05:00

Grimes
Get More: Grimes, MTV Hive

[mp3] Grimes: "Oblivion"

Here's, like, a great, like new video from like Grimes, who is, like, pretty awesome. Poor interview chops aside - Grimes' wildly eclectic, original and excellent new album Visions, is set to make a huge splash in early 2012 (Jan release). It's been a staple on our fall playlists, and we're psyched to share the fantastic above video for "Oblivion" shot by the great folks at Yours Truly who have teamed up w/ MTV Hive for this new video series. Looking forward to more here.

New Tuesday Vids

2011-11-21T13:47:00.001-05:00

[mp3] Fleet Foxes: "The Shrine / An Argument"

Fleet Foxes' fantastic new video for "The Shrine / An Argument" directed by Sean Pecknold. Helplessness Blues is out now.

Porcelain Raft debuts their new video today for "Put Me To Sleep" off of their new album Strange Weekend dropping Jan 24 on Secretly Canadian.
Put Me To Sleep by Porcelain Raft

Friday Dose of Awesome: "Chevy Beretta"

2011-11-18T18:43:00.001-05:00

[mp3] Jonny Corndawg: "Chevy Beretta"

Here's a little Jonny Corndawg / Caitlin Rose action coming at you on a Friday night. "What you’re seeing here is the culmination of literally tens of minutes of painstaking work. Enjoy."

Says director Sean Dunne:

“When Jonny and I first talked about making a video for Chevy Beretta we envisioned making the Citizen Kane of music videos. The kind of video that would inspire discussion and one day come to define our generation. Then I realized that Jonny had no money, so I went on the Internet and stole people’s old photos and videos. What you’re seeing here is the culmination of literally tens of minutes of painstaking work. Enjoy.”

VIA

Playing Catch Up: Body Language

2011-11-18T10:14:00.000-05:00

[mp3] Body Language: "Seeds of Sight"

Body Language found themselves on our short list of CMJ bands to watch. After a late late show, where we couldn't tell if it was our ears or the band that was a little off, so we're still left on the fence about this band's live show. YET! Luckily for us, Body Language are playing with the excellent (on record at least) Keep Shelly in Athens this Friday at Bowery Ballroom. Needless to say, we're excited to see how both bands deliver on the great equalizer of all buzz bands - the large stage at Bowery. Body Language just debuted their super creative video for their excellent tune "Holiday" from their album Social Studies, out now.

Playing Catch Up: Porcelain Raft

2011-11-18T08:43:00.000-05:00

We wrote off Porcelain Raft as one of the seemingly countless synth/disco DJs with a left of center band name that is jamming the bloggosphere every day. Yet, with European dates supporting M83, and a deal with a trustworthy A&R gate keeper in Secretly Canadian, our skepticism began to wane. One listen to the below track "Put Me To Sleep" off of debut album Strange Weekend (1/24), assuaged our fears and brought us into the midst of some hazy, cloudy, European city somewhere, and we were hooked.

Put Me To Sleep by Porcelain Raft

New Video: Feist - "How Come You Never Go There"

2011-11-17T11:59:00.000-05:00

[mp3] Feist: "How Come You never Go There"

Check out Feist's new video for "How Come You Never Go There" off her most recent record, Metals.

Playing Catch Up: Canyons

2011-11-16T22:31:00.001-05:00

You know - having real jobs can (shockingly) get in the way of blogging. Therefore - we're going to hit you with a few cool items, that may be short on copy, but long on quality. The first up is Canyons' new release Keep Your Dreams out this week on Modular. We've been following this Aussie duo's string of varied singles and videos, all different, yet singularly cohesive in their bold use of angular guitars, dark synth, house rhythms and solid melodies.

Canyons - See Blind Through by modularpeople

How Topical. New Penguin Prison Video - "Don't Fuck With My Money"

2011-11-15T11:30:00.004-05:00

Get More: Penguin Prison, Don't F*ck With My Money, Music, More Music Videos

Say what you will about Penguin Prison as a band, but they just released a new video for "Don't Fuck With My Money." To little surprise, the video is focused around the 1%, because, you know, don't fuck with our money. We were early champions of this band and think there is still commercial potential for them somewhere...maybe after this record.

Ok that's enough.

Buy their debut record after the jump.

New Lissy Trullie: "Madeleine"

2011-11-14T16:52:00.001-05:00

[mp3] Lissy Trullie: "Madeleine"

It's been too long since we've heard from the excellent songwriter Lissy (not Lissie) Trullie. After a series of great singles, a hit Hot Chip cover and a stellar EP, Trullie today released the new single "Madeleine" from her forthcoming self-titled debut for Downtown out March 6th and produced by John Hill (Santigold, M.I.A., Shakira) and David Sitek (TV On the Radios, Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Liars). While "Madeleine" is not as sharp and edgy as we expected from Trullie, it's melodic and rich in texture with just the right elements of NY grime. Very much looking fwd to this new release.

New Nite Jewel: "Sister"

2011-11-10T11:01:00.001-05:00

It's been a long time, and many singles / eps since we last spoke with Ramona Gonzalez at our kitchen table, during the fledgling years of Stark. Yet, it's a testament to an artist like Gonzalez, that not only has she managed to survive the land-mine filled indie-buzz world, she has thrived - recently signing to Secretly Canadian with a proper full length due in 2012. Below is the gauzy and downtempo mellowness of "Sister" the B-side from her upcoming 7" She’s Always Watching You out December 6 on yourstru.ly’s Love Letters Ink:

Via GVB "Each physical 7″ includes a handwritten letter from Ramona and a secret link to watch a “making of” video from the recording sessions by yourstru.ly, and perhaps most importantly, a $1 donation to the Lauren Abramson Memorial Fund to benefit Citzen Schools of California. Pre-order here."

&lt;p&gt;&amp;lt;a href="http://yourstrulysf.bandcamp.com/track/sister"&amp;gt;Sister by yours truly&amp;lt;/a&amp;gt;&lt;/p&gt;

Sharon Van Etten Announces Jagjaguwar Debut

2011-11-09T11:55:00.003-05:00

[mp3] Sharon Van Etten: "Don't Do It"

We've been biting our tongue waiting to announce the new record from long-time Stark favorite Sharon Van Etten. After penning my #3 album of last year 'Epic' Van Etten inked a deal with the venerable indie Jagjaguwar. Today, the official news dropped that Tramp, her new album recorded with The National's Aaron Dessner will come out Feb 7. We haven't heard any music yet, so we'll let the press release sum up the facts below. Very exciting news.

Van Etten’s Tramp contains as much striking rock as pious, minimal beauty; it can be as emotionally combative as it can sultry. Contributions from Matt Barrick (Walkmen), Thomas Bartlett (aka Doveman), Zach Condon (Beirut), Jenn Wasner (Wye Oak), Julianna Barwick, and Dessner himself add a glowing sheen to the already substantial offering.

Van Etten will play shows with Shearwater and The War On Drugs all over North America in support of this release. A list of tour dates is after the jump.

TRAMP TRACKLISTING:

01. Warsaw

02. Give Out

03. Serpents

04. Kevin’s

05. Leonard

06. In Line

07. All I Can

08. We Are Fine

09. Magic Chords

10. Ask

11. I’m Wrong

12. Joke or a Lie

SHARON VAN ETTEN TOUR DATES

Tue. Dec. 13 -- New York, NY @ Beacon Theatre w/ The National

Fri. Feb. 10 -- Philadelphia, PA @ Johnny Brenda's w/ Shearwater

Sat. Feb. 11 -- Washington, DC @ Black Cat w/ Shearwater

Sun. Feb. 12 -- Carrboro, NC @ Cat's Cradle w/ Shearwater

Tue. Feb. 14 -- Columbus, OH @ Wexner Center w/ Shearwater

Wed. Feb. 15 -- Newport, KY @ Southgate House w/ Shearwater

Thu. Feb. 16 -- Chicago, IL @ Lincoln Hall w/ Shearwater

Fri. Feb. 17 -- Chicago, IL @ Lincoln Hall w/ Shearwater

Sat. Feb. 18 -- Minneapolis, MN @ Cedar Cultural Center w/ Shearwater

Tue. Feb. 21 -- Toronto, ON @ Lee's Palace w/ Shearwater

Wed. Feb. 22 -- Montreal, QC @ Il Motore w/ Shearwater

Thu. Feb. 23 -- Boston, MA @ Paradise w/ Shearwater

Fri. Feb. 24 - Brooklyn, NY @ Music Hall of Williamsburg w/ Shearwater

Sat. Feb. 25 -- New York, NY @ Bowery Ballroom w/ Shearwater

Tue. March 20 -- Los Angeles, CA @ The Avalon w/ The War On Drugs

Wed. March 21 -- San Francisco, CA @ The Independent w/ The War On Drugs

Fri. March 23 -- Portland, OR @ Aladdin Theater w/ The War On Drugs

Sat. March 24 -- Vancouver, BC @ Biltmore Cabaret w/ The War On Drugs

Sun. March 25 -- Seattle, WA @ The Neptune

Tue. March 27 -- Salt Lake City, UT @ The State Room w/ The War On Drugs

Mon. March 28 -- Denver, CO @ Bluebird Theater w/ The War On Drugs

Sat, March 31 -- St. Louis, MO @ Luminary Center for the Arts w/ The War On Drugs

Sun. April 1 -- Bloomington, IN @ Rhino's w/ The War On Drugs

Robert Glasper Experiment: 'Black Radio'

2011-11-09T08:25:00.000-05:00

After working with Robert Glasper several years ago behind his album 'Canvas', this talented composer and pianist has continued to push himself and develop his talents, taking steps outside of the traditional Jazz spectrum, and into a bold genre bending musical world. The Robert Glasper Experiment, at least in the past, seemed like more of a side project to his more "classic" (not that his trio compositions ever failed to push the envelope) Jazz albums. Even the group's name alluded to a fleeting trial. With the announcement of 'Black Radio' The Experiment (on paper at least) seems honed, focused, star-studded, and a number one priority. The game certainly changed for the quickly rising Glasper after Kanye West, Mos Def, and Lupe Fiasco joined him on stage for a freestyle jam at the Blue Note Jazz club earlier this year.

The experiment consists of: saxist Casey Benjamin, bassist Derrick Hodge, and drummer Chris Dave. Yet, Black Radio also features a jaw-dropping roll call of special guests including Erykah Badu, Bilal, Lupe Fiasco, Lalah Hathaway, Shafiq Husayn (Sa-Ra), KING, Ledisi, Chrisette Michele, Mos Def, Musiq Soulchild, Meshell Ndegeocello, and Stokley Williams (Mint Condition). INSANE.

'Black Radio' drops February 28 on Blue Note Records. The tracklist featuring covers and originals are below.

01 Lift Off/Mic Check (featuring Shafiq Husayn)
02 Afro Blue (featuring Erykah Badu)
03 Cherish The Day (featuring Lalah Hathaway)
04 Always Shine (featuring Lupe Fiasco & Bilal)
05 Gonna Be Alright (F.T.B.) (featuring Ledisi)
06 Move Love (featuring KING)
07 Ah Yeah (featuring Musiq Soulchild & Chrisette Michele)
08 Consequence Of Jealousy (featuring Meshell Ndegeocello)
09 Why Do We Try (featuring Stokley Williams)
10 Black Radio (featuring Mos Def)
11 Letter to Hermoine (featuring Bilal)
12 Smells Like Teen Spirit

New Video: Tom Waits - "Satisfied"

2011-11-08T11:25:00.000-05:00

Check out Tom Waits' new video for "Satisfied" directed by Bob Dylan's son Jesse Dylan; this track is off his most recent album, Bad as Me (Anti)

Friday Dose of Amazing

2011-11-04T18:30:00.000-04:00

This video combines everything I love. Thank you Numero. Thank you.

TONIGHT! No post needs to introduce the amazing bill of Hayes Carll, with Caitlin Rose. Caitlin hits at 9, and Hayes after that. You can pre-order Caitlin's 'Own Side Now' on vinyl (finally) HERE. Ships on Nov 8. Hayes' KMAG YOYO is own sale NOW as well. Both can't be recommended enough. See you out there kids.

Charli XCX: "Nuclear Seasons"

2011-11-03T11:54:00.000-04:00

[mp3] Charli XCX: "Nuclear Seasons"

[mp3] Charli XCX: "Stay Away"

We were admittedly in the dark about this UK teen until this recent single made the rounds last week. Since we're the savvy bloggers that we are, we vetted these tracks over the past few days, and shit if they aren't good. While they're not breaking the synth-pop / goth modus operandi prevalent these days - these are heavy hitting tracks, well produced, executed and written. Something big is brewing - let's see if she can follow through. Her 12" "Stay Away" single is out now.

New, Albini-Produced Cloud Nothings Track

2011-11-03T08:42:00.002-04:00

[mp3] Cloud Nothings: "No Future / No Past"

Last year's Cloud Nothing's release was packed full of strong hooks and crisp, efficient songwriting. Yesterday, we got a taste of their forthcoming Steve Albini produced album Attack on Memory, dropping Jan 24 on Carpark. The new tune is thick and sludgey, with that distinct Albini bass and drum sound. While cool and definitely rocking, there's not a ton going on in terms of melody here... perhaps this is the mysterious vibey first "single" that leaves you hoping the rest of the tracks are a bit better.

Kisses Cover Palmer's "Johnny and Mary"

2011-11-02T09:41:00.000-04:00

[mp3] Kisses: "Johnny and Mary (Robert Palmer)"

Our longtime Stark faves Kisses returned yesterday with a cover of the Robert Palmer gem "Johnny and Mary." While we were hoping for a new (original) tune from this LA duo - this cover fits them perfectly, and it's good to know they still have their creative juices flowing leading up to a new album coming in 2012.

Lissie Covered Up with Flowers

2011-11-02T08:49:00.000-04:00

It's been a good while since our initial media blitz during Lissie's rapid rise to prominence behind her debut EP and good, but uneven debut full length Catching a Tiger. We're glad to bring her back to the Stark pages today to support her new covers EP - Covered Up with Flowers. While we haven't taken it for a full spin yet, we've heard at least 3 of these tunes during her numerous live shows and they were a pleasure to watch and listen to. Fat Possum released this as an iTunes exclusive yesterday. Welcome back Lissie, it's been too long.

Tracklist:
Pursuit Of Happiness (Kid Cudi cover)
Bad Romance (Lady Gaga cover)
Games People Play (Joe South cover)
Nothing Else Matters (Metallica cover)
The Ship Song (Nick Cave cover)

Lissie - Games People Play (Joe South cover) by rfp86

J. Viewz: Album Release Party / New Video "Building A Home"

2011-11-01T11:38:00.006-04:00

J.Viewz: Brooklyn-native, Stark Artist to Watch, real name Jonathan Dagan, and more. We are happy to bring you his newest video for "Building A Home" off his debut LP rivers and homes. We are also excited to announce that this Friday, 11/4, Dagan will be hosting his album release party at Webster Studio in NYC. You won't want to miss this one. Get on board folks.

New Video: First Aid Kit - "The Lion's Roar"

2011-11-01T09:55:00.001-04:00

First Aid Kit - The Lion's Roar by Wichita Recordings

First Aid Kit debuted their video for "The Lion's Roar," the title track off their upcoming Jack White-produced full length, which drops Jan. 24, 2012. The video (directed by Mats Udd) does well to match the dark, majestic vibe of the track and is beautifully shot. Enjoy.

Nikki Lane: "Sleep For You"

2011-10-31T13:05:00.003-04:00

[mp3] Nikki Lane: "Sleep for You"

Here's a new vid from one of our favorite new Nashville artists Nikki Lane - who we regrettably missed during CMJ - but hope to catch at least sometime in the future. This sultry video does well in highlighting some of Nikki's lovely "attributes" but, there's no denying the quality of this tune, and her new record 'Walk of Shame' as a whole.

Sat. Nov. 5 -- Boston, MA @ Paradise Rock Club
Sun. Nov. 6 -- Philadelphia, PA @ Theatre of Living Arts
Tue. Nov. 8 -- Toronto, ON @ Phoenix Theatre
Wed. Nov. 9 -- Grand Rapids, MA @ Ladies Literary Club
Fri. Nov. 11 -- Chicago, IL @ Lincoln Hall
Sat. Nov. 12 -- Chicago, IL @ Lincoln Hall
Mon. Nov. 14 -- Milwaukee, WI @ Turner Hall
Thu. Nov. 17 -- Seattle, WA @ Neptune
Fri. Nov. 18 -- Vancouver, BC @ Venue
Sat. Nov. 19 -- Portland, OR @ Wonder Ballroom
Mon. Nov. 21 -- San Francisco, CA @ Great American Music Hall
Tue. Nov. 22 -- Anaheim, CA @ House of BluesWed. Nov. 23 -- Nashville, TN @ Loveless Barn (Music City Roots)

New Washed Out - 'Call it Off' from Amor Fati 12"

2011-10-31T12:16:00.000-04:00

Washed Out - Call It Off by WeirdWorldRecordCo

Our friends over at GVB just posted this new b-side track from Washed Out's Amor Fati 12-inch titled "Call it Off." Check it out above!

Keep Shelly in Athens Peel Back Mystery

2011-10-31T11:14:00.002-04:00

[mp3] Keep Shelly in Athens: "DIY"

It seems with each successive track, tour date, and news announcement the shroud of mystery that has long surrounded Keep Shelly in Athens is peeled back bit by bit. Following the seemingly same trajectory of like minded artist JJ, KSIA have grown past being just nameless, photo-less musicians from across the Atlantic. For months, they let their excellent gauzy pop-minded electronic compositions speak for the band. But now, they are developing into a “real” group, complete with a 12” release, US tour dates and photos. Long the personal baby band of Gorilla vs. Bear, the blog’s label Forest Family has paid it forward by putting out their upcoming album Our Own Dream, due Nov 8. We wouldn’t be the least bit surprised if a larger indie label picked up this talented Grecian duo for a larger release in 2012. For now, enjoy the new single "DIY" above, and catch them on their first US tour. Dates after the jump.

11/05 Austin, TX Fun Fun Fun Fest

11/05 Austin, TX Gorilla Vs. Bear FFF Nites After Party @ Empire Automotive *

11/07 Los Angeles, CA Bardot (DJ Set @ School Night)
11/08 Los Angeles, CA The Roxy Theatre !
11/09 San Francisco, CA The Independent ! #
11/11 Seattle, WA Chop Suey !
11/12 Vancouver, BC Waldorf Hotel %
11/14 Chicago, IL Lincoln Hall &
11/16 Toronto, ON Wrong Bar &
11/17 Boston, MA Brighton Music Hall & ^
11/18 New York, NY Bowery Ballroom &

* = w/ Purity Ring, Memoryhouse, Neon Indian DJ Set

! = w/ Kisses
#= w/ Blackbird Blackbird
%= w/ Blood Diamonds
&= w/ Body Language
^= w/ ABADABAD

Youth Lagoon Comes to NYC 11/14-11/15

2011-10-28T12:57:00.004-04:00

[MP3] Youth Lagoon - "Bobby"

Brimming from his recent Pitchfork Best New Music title, twenty-two year old Trevor Powers (a.k.a. Youth Lagoon) has created the perfect record in The Year of Hibernation. What is perfect about it? Well, there is nothing groundbreaking happening here sonically, musically or lyrically. What makes this record perfect is its ability to linger in your speakers while your head is somewhere else. This is a cover-to-cover record where individually, each song is forgotten as quick as it plays, but as a collective, it has staying power. Powers has more in him beyond this record; it is an amazing start. Granted a self-induced career suicide of epic proportions, Powers has the ability to churn out record after record building upon what he has done with Hibernation. His ear for melody and his ghostly lyrical style make elevate his music to an artistic level, like a brush stroke.

We are looking to see how this record translates live and will be in attandance at one of his two NYC shows at Mercury Lounge in November.

Full tour dates after the jump!

YOUTH LAGOON

11/01 San Francisco, CA Bottom Of The Hill #
11/02 Los Angeles, CA The Echo #
11/03 San Diego, CA The Casbah #
11/04 Phoenix, AZ The Crescent Ballroom #
11/05 Tucson, AZ Solar Culture Gallery #
11/07 Austin, TX Emo's Alternative Lounge [inside] #
11/08 Denton, TX Dan's Silverleaf #
11/09 Oxford, MS Cats Purring Dude Ranch #
11/10 Nashville, TN The Basement #
11/11 Atlanta, GA The Drunken Unicorn #
11/12 Durham, NC Motorco Music Hall #
11/13 Washington, DC The Red Palace #
11/14 New York, NY The Mercury Lounge #
11/15 New York, NY The Mercury Lounge #
11/16 Philadelphia, PA Milkboy #
11/17 Cambridge, MA TT The Bears #
11/18 Montreal, QC Il Motore #
11/19 Toronto, ONT The Garrison #
11/21 Madison, WI High Noon Saloon #
11/22 Chicago, IL Lincoln Hall #
11/23 Minneapolis, MN 7th Street Avenue #
11/25 Denver, CO Larimer Lounge #
11/26 Salt Lake, UT Kilby Court #
01/19 Seattle, WA The Crocodile
01/20 Vancouver, BC Biltmore
01/21 Portland, OR Doug Fir

# = w/ Young Magic

New Video: Summer Camp - "Down"

2011-10-27T08:48:00.002-04:00

Check out this new video from Summer Camp for their current single, "Down." The band's debut full-length record, Welcome to Condale (including the promising first single "Better Off Without You") releases digitally on 11/8 and physically on 11/22 (Apricot Records /Moshi Moshi) Really looking forward to this one. Pre-order your copy HERE.

CMJ 2011 - Big Winners

2011-10-26T08:12:00.000-04:00

Tristen ["Baby Drugs"]: To be honest, we thought we had a fairly good idea of what we were going to get when we went to see Tristen play twice last week. We've seen a lot of Tristen shows, but were not ready for the next level of musicianship and songwriting that Tristen and her band The Ringers brought, especially at the Flower Booking showcase Friday. With new drummer Sam Smith, and classic Ringers, Buddy and Jordan - Tristen pulled out three new songs from the follow up to Charlatans at the Garden Gate (out now - American Myth) - and brought her more familiar material to new heights. Guitarless, Tristen dominated the stage during closing song "No One's Gonna Know." It was rhythmic, pulsing, melodic, - dare we say anthemic - and outright spectacular. New record, new haircut - and we can't wait to hear it.

FIDLAR ["Bummed"]: Fuck it dog, life's a risk. Fidlar may have been the top live band we saw all week. Their set was ear splittingly loud, the songs short, powerful and gripping. On the surface, they're four stoner skater punks from LA - but the writing is scary good, and the execution is better. Their drummer summed the band up best in a brief conversation before their set: "I can guarantee you that at no point during our set will I play a stand alone floor tom at the front of the stage with a maraca." Amen.

Alabama Shakes ["I Found You"]: Clearly, this band went into CMJ with huge amounts of momentum. With Jack White already a fan, and labels rumored to be bidding heavily on these amazing Alabama newcomers - there's no question they were the talk of New York before CMJ. Yet, after their set in Philly the night before, and their Thursday night set (with the amazing Dry The River) - there was no doubt that the Alabama Shakes were the real deal, and are here to stay. People were floored. It's going to be very fun watching them over the next year.

Electric Guest [mp3]: It seemed that it took all the way up until CMJ week for the buzz to hit on Electric Guest, but it reached a crescendo on Tuesday night at the 'anyone who is anyone was there' All Things Go party. With Ezra Koening, Julian Casablancas and Dangermouse (producing their 2012 Downtown album) in attendance, the anticipation was palpable. Yet, for us at least, the set didn't really deliver. The band clearly had some fantastic songs, and the execution was flawless, but there was something intangible that didn't connect with us. There were a few too many downtempo R&B tinged tunes and an off-putting stage presence from a few members. NOW. This is a band with a ton of promise. 2012 is probably going to be a big year for them, and CMJ was a great launching pad. This set may not have connected with us this time - but there will be many more sets, and this is certainly a band you'll be hearing a lot about. We hope to see them again soon.

You Won't ["Who Knew"]: Taking nothing away from this very talented duo, there's not a ton to say about them. You Won't come from the classic school of writing good songs and just getting out there and playing them well. Vocalist Josh Arnoudse has a guttural and dynamic vocal prowess, akin to Deer Tick at his best and as powerful as any indie rock singer out there right now. There's a lot to love here and as they clean up their live show, these guys have a good shot of turning a lot of heads in 2012. Their album Skeptic Goodbye is out now.

Robert Ellis ["Good Intentions"]: We finish this list with a core Texas-based Stark artist. Falling on the more serious side of Jonny Corndawg, and on the more bluegrass side of the usual Texas/Nashville sound - Ellis is a strong contender for the crown in the new crop of country artists plying their craft these days. With long hair and a clean (when it needs to be) vocal tone - Ellis is a dynamic performer and a talented writer. His debut album Photographs is out now on New West. Highly recommended.

TONIGHT: Dawes and Blitzen Trapper

2011-10-26T06:45:00.000-04:00

Dawes: "Time Spent in Los Angeles"

Blitzen Trapper: "Love the Way You Walk Away"

Dawes and Blitzen Trapper hit New York tonight at Webster Hall, for a stacked bill.

It’s been a groundbreaking year for Dawes on the back of theirlatest effort – Nothing is Wrong (ATO). Withseveral US-spanning national tours, including the current tour with BlitzenTrapper, and over 30k records scanned, Dawes have established themselves aspower-players on the current musical landscape. They have a special connectionwith fans (casual and diehard) in that people WANT them to succeed. Despitenever speaking with them personally, Dawes have a trusted and valued teamworking with them, and the band’s earnestness and passion come across in everysong and live show. Shockingly, tonight will be our first live experience witha band we’ve been longtime fans of. We’re certainly looking forward to it. The remainder of Dawes tour dates are after the jump.

The above is not to take anything away from the amazingBlitzen Trapper who share the bill tonight. Their deeply satisfying new record AmericanGoldwing is out now.

Tour Dates

27 - Philadelphia, PA - Theatre of Living Arts^

28 - Boston, MA - Royale^

29 - Philadelphia, PA - World Cafe Live**

30 - Toronto, Ontario - Opera House^

November

01 - Cleveland, OH - Beachland Ballroom^

02 - Grand Rapids, MI - Calvin College^

03 - Chicago, IL - The Metro^

04 - Minneapolis, MN - First Avenue^ SOLD OUT

05 - Milwaukee, WI - Turner Hall^

07 - Boulder, CO - Fox Theatre^

10 - Vancouver, British Columbia - Rickshaw Theatre^

11 - Seattle, WA - The Neptune^

12 - Portland, OR - Crystal Ballroom^

13 - Eugene, OR - McDonald Theatre^

15 - San Francisco, CA - The Fillmore^

17 - Los Angeles, CA - The Music Box^

December

5 - New York, NY - The Beacon Theater#

31 - Minneapolis, MN - The Varsity Theater

+ - supporting Alison Krauss & Union Station

^ - co headline with Blitzen Trapper

^^ - Blitzen Trapper, Jason Isbell & 400 Unit, James McMurtry and Matthew Sweet

** - World Cafe Live 20th Anniversary Tribute concert with Feist and Robbie Roberston

# - WFUV Holiday Cheer with Mavis Staples and The Head And The Heart

Smoke Fairies open 10/7 – 10/26

Belle Brigade opens 10/7-10/27 – 11/15

Blog Reel and CMJ Hiatus

2011-10-18T14:03:00.000-04:00

Hey kiddies - we're going to be out and about all week sacrificing sleep and sobriety researching the coolest and hottest new BUZZ bands for your enjoyment in subsequent blog posts - all while diligently working our real jobs to the fullest. So, that being said, we won't be posting for the rest of the week. Enjoy the below videos for now. See you at the rock show.