tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-136508182011-11-18T09:29:05.559-08:00Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.comBlogger1711100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-31929930740321320992008-01-30T08:37:00.000-08:002008-01-30T08:42:10.233-08:00

Hello -- I just wanted to share a recent discovery with you. It seems .RAR Blogs are going the way of dead (or shutdown) lately. In their place, I've found this handy search to be a nice tool. Plus, it helps you avoid all the excess blogger commentary. Rapidshare SearchA word of advice: not all results will be what you're looking for. You might have to peck around and see which file names

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-1337011346786304802008-01-17T09:35:00.000-08:002008-01-17T09:47:41.505-08:00

Here the entire webcast from the recent Radiohead show in London, in a teeny little club. Check it out. The audio quality is great. This is also the first time I've seen some of these new YouTube features. Finally they've figured out how to link videos together onscreen, so you don't have to select them. They also play back-to-back.

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-56909367117056192732008-01-07T10:16:00.001-08:002008-01-07T10:18:27.964-08:00

Thanks to those who braved the wintry mix and made it out to our NYE bash. It was great to see everyone. Have a great 2008.

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-82697067010978701512008-01-03T18:18:00.000-08:002008-01-03T18:21:14.451-08:00

What was your favorite record(s) this year? Post a quick comment and let me know. Now is the best time of the year for music. All the year-end lists have come out, and its a big ole feast of highly-recommended stuff. That's why its so hard to come up with a year's best list in December. Usually there are at least 1-2 albums I hear in early 2008 (as a result of year-end lists) that end up

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-9219819421311429142007-12-17T13:03:00.001-08:002007-12-17T13:24:04.965-08:00

So far, LCD Soundsystem's "All My Friends" has claimed the coveted indie-site crowns, winning best song on Pitchfork's poll, as well as Stylus (may the latter site rest in peace). I have to agree with both -- "All My Friends" is the best song I've heard all year, hands down. Click play to the right, and listen. This could perhaps be the only "Song of the Year" candidate to ever feature a

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-37331171475915926432007-12-14T22:07:00.000-08:002007-12-17T15:33:17.206-08:00

Ok, I've been saving this track, because its one of my favorites so far, and its a little more upbeat, has more instrumentation, etc. But first, I want to set it up a little bit ...So, in my estimation, maybe only 5%-10% of rock lyrics are well conceived and carried-out ideas. The rest are just a series of words that sound good enough. All songs have a skeleton of chord progression,

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-4710717370674743592007-12-14T13:25:00.000-08:002007-12-14T13:36:26.873-08:00

This has to be the year-end list I've read so far. So many classic band names. I hate to just reprint, but here are a few personal favorites. You really should read the whole article. Baboon Torture DivisionGay Witch AbortionNeil Diamond Phillips -- "Part Neil Diamond, Part Lou Diamond Phillips, 100% Rock!" Sadly, the band doesn't sound like Lou Diamond Phillips singing Neil Diamond songs.

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-38332674042187126652007-12-13T12:36:00.000-08:002007-12-13T12:37:46.904-08:00

Just a completely tasteless headline from the NY Post. I know they'll print anything, but come on.

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-25903551366022646652007-12-12T09:26:00.001-08:002007-12-12T09:30:33.749-08:00

Man, I love this response from the Onion today. The question is: After years apart, the three original members of Led Zeppelin reunited in a triumphant concert in London on Monday. What do you think?Zep is still my favorite band of all time, but I'm not sure what to think of this reunion tour.

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-4733622106072081452007-12-04T18:56:00.000-08:002007-12-04T19:26:18.005-08:00

Thanks to everyone for checking back and listening to these tunes when they have time. Here's another offering, this one is a cover of a relatively obscure Hank Williams Sr. song. In fact, the only recording I know of this tune is a posthumous one where Willie Nelson recorded his accompaniment over the top of the track (a la "Unforgettable" with Nat and Natalie King Cole). Some quick research

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-43176053670895787172007-12-03T12:26:00.000-08:002007-12-03T12:44:53.555-08:00

Amazon has over 5,000 free karaoke tracks available for download in their new online music store. May I suggest you go straight for the Bolton. Twenty bucks to the first person who records them self covering "How am I supposed to live without you"*

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-53240045244731425592007-11-30T18:12:00.000-08:002007-11-30T18:24:43.821-08:00

Here's a tune I was working on a while back, and , well, I basically forgot how to play it. That means its finished unless I sit down and try to figure it out again. The song was untitled, but I've decided to call it "Bob Ed". The story with that name stems from a conversation about bad two-name names -- someone mentioned they had once met a fellow named Bob Ed. This was recently, but I can't

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-3162237242971884212007-11-29T12:58:00.000-08:002007-11-29T13:01:24.580-08:00

One of my favorite New Order songs gets covered by Broken Social Scene's Kevin Drew. It's up on PF today. Its pretty in that soft, sparse, Tori-ish kind of way. Check it out.

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-7787688086982427792007-11-28T21:14:00.000-08:002007-11-29T12:56:14.485-08:00

More shit alert -- coming 2-fast, 2-furious. Here's a track I recorded using a the programs Reason and Sony Acid. The keys, drums and bass are all synth sounds, but the rest is real stuff. Ideally, it would be great if I had the patience to flesh out every song to this degree, but what you hear here probably took a good 4-5 hrs to cut, so it's tough. Anyway, this song is about lying awake and

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-16326778147725612632007-11-27T19:16:00.001-08:002007-11-27T21:54:17.351-08:00

So by now you've probably figured out that this blog isn't exactly updated regularly. It will probably stay that way for a while. The good news: no more bullshit. I've decided to try'n get serious about songwriting (again). Therefore, I'll occasionally post a song that I've recorded for you fine people to listen to and hopefully (1) appreciate, or (2) ridicule the shit out of. I'm a

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-80912296795007070022007-11-01T19:29:00.000-07:002007-11-01T19:47:24.313-07:00

I don't know where to begin with this one. Phosphorescent is one guy, Mathew Houck, and I think the best word to use to describe his music is sweeping. It's slow, it pleads, and it cascades left and right with rich vocal harmony and slow, plodding guitar strums. It has a lot of space. It's an expiremental approach to folk music, but there are still rich melodies at the surface that keep the

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-74080444092303734792007-10-31T08:14:00.001-07:002007-10-31T08:23:27.163-07:00

Man, talk about one of the biggest bummers I've had in a while. I went over to check Stylus Magazine -- one of my favorite daily reads -- only to discover that they're shutting their doors as of today. Suck! Stylus was always seen as a RC Cola to Pitchfork's Coke-style dominance of online music-crit sites. Really, I think I liked Stylus better. They were never quick to go full steam ahead on

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-23494965872720849682007-10-25T13:30:00.000-07:002007-10-25T13:34:21.736-07:00

Don't pass this one up. They are in excellent condition after all.

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-7945952097508211792007-10-25T12:19:00.000-07:002007-10-25T12:28:24.085-07:00

After nearly a month MIA, one of the better MP3 Blogs, RegnYouth, is back in a big way. I think dude posted a good 30 albums in the last two days. He's got a truckload of 2007 releases worth a listen:Radiohead: In RainbowsTuung: Good ArrowsKanye West: GraduationBeirut: Flying Cup ClubFiery Furnaces: Widow CityJens Lekman: Night Falls of KortedalaBand of Horses: Cease to Begin Sunset Rubdown:

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-37574293246982106252007-10-24T13:21:00.000-07:002007-10-24T13:30:14.933-07:00

And on to bands that certifiably rock. Here's a live performance that the Hold Steady laid to tape for KEXP in Seattle. Even better, there's talk of a new album in the Spring or Summer of 2008. Hells yes. In the meantime, Meg and I have tickets to go see them a week from today on, you said man, Halloween. It's on. LINK: Hold Steady Live on KEXP

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-45669876858321552622007-10-24T12:14:00.000-07:002007-10-24T13:05:53.944-07:00

So these guys, Black Kids, are everywhere. Jan Parales -- NYTimes critic, and quite possibly the single most powerful music writer in print today -- used the band as a centerpiece in his article about blog buzz at the recent CMJ in New York. Pitchfork bestowed their exalted "Best New Music" tag on their still unreleased EP. So far, I'm not getting it, but with hype like this you can't NOT

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-20883335260588037912007-10-23T17:39:00.000-07:002007-10-23T17:51:52.926-07:00

Sorry for the delay on posts -- been really busy at work this past week. Here's a great album from 2007 from Canadian outfit The Besnard Lakes. The formula for this one is something along the lines of Steve Miller Band + Sigur Ros + Steppenwolf, with a smidge of Beach Boys thrown in for good measure. It's a solid rock disc, and one of the best debut albums of the year. Check out the track "

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-69064456421212728362007-10-17T14:34:00.000-07:002007-10-17T14:42:15.172-07:00

Can we just talk briefly about this page? In the midst of all the ESPN page overhauls this one some how got left in 1997. Look at the old school link stylings on the left. Look at the amazingly pixelated photo at the bottom of the left sidebar! Is this a joke? And the "you are getting verrrry sleeeepy" graphic in the header? This whole page design is one gigantic pile of WTF, and I'm not

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-39021806054235932272007-10-17T09:30:00.000-07:002007-10-17T12:25:56.084-07:00

Here's the new solo joint from Broken Social Scene's (frontman?) Kevin Drew. Most the reviews say it sounds like a BSS album, which is accurate. Honestly, I think he could have cut out a couple of the tracks and gone EP instead of full-length. If I had it my way, I'd rather see the better tracks make their way on to the next BSS album, especially since the band is playing on them anyway. Alas

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-77872856615531307792007-10-15T12:19:00.000-07:002007-10-15T12:53:39.022-07:00

First up, you gotta love this collection of the 20 Worst Pop Songs ever recorded. Sure, that's a highly debatable topic, but there are at least 3-4 that I would include on my list. Noticeably absent: "Life is a Highway" by Tom Cochrane (formerly of the Canada band Red Rider, who had a decidedly under appreciated hit with the song "Lunatic Fringe"). That song is quicksand of the mind, but you

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-62786302505715302502007-10-12T13:45:00.000-07:002007-10-12T15:26:12.819-07:00

A good portion of the most interesting music coming out of Europe in the last few years seems to have one thing in common: it all sounds really dirty. Take for example Dizzy Rascal, Justice, The Go Team, and this group: Love Is All. Unlike the others, Love Is All play dirty inside the confines of a classic guitar/bass/drums/vox rock band. The songs here have a lo-fi, overdriven quality that

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-83995215517498218442007-10-11T10:05:00.000-07:002007-10-11T10:35:05.595-07:00

I'm not going try to tie these all together, so here we go with the list:They're dont' seem to be any huge stylistic left turns -- the bands sounds like they've settled in a little bit -- but you can tell here that Thom's songwriting continues down the path of abstract and experimental. The best thing about listening to a Radiohead album for the first time is trying to predict which direction a

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-58992772738345498932007-10-11T08:30:00.000-07:002007-10-11T10:36:21.960-07:00

In terms of social, political and musical influence and impact, Fela Kuti belongs on the shortlist with artists like John Lennon and Bob Marley. He is the father of Afrobeat, a style that incorporates traditions like call-and-response and polyrhythm often found in African Highlife and Juju music with sounds coming from American bands like the Funky JBs. Toss in a horn section that's heavy on

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-27696284558971373992007-10-10T07:38:00.000-07:002007-10-10T15:46:35.371-07:00

Just a reminder that the new Radiohead album, In Rainbows, is available for download as of today. Yes, you can still pay whatever you want for it. To access the tracks, sign up for Radiohead's W.A.S.T.E. email list to receive a link to the download site (I don't have mine yet, so I guess that means be patient).Early buzz is that it's more OK Computer than Kid A, and of course, great. (Though I

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-73394582194337423832007-10-10T07:16:00.000-07:002007-10-10T07:29:04.990-07:00

Thanks to Mike C. for hunting this one down and sending it over. Digitalism is drawing a lot of comparisons to Justice for their similar "garage" approach to dance music, and to Hot Chip for the live sound, and full-band scale of their performances. Scope it. Sorry, I haven't listened enough to write more. Check out the AllMusic review for guidance. LINK: Digitalism: Idealism

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-11804967667831595152007-10-09T06:44:00.000-07:002007-10-09T07:07:48.529-07:00

Recently I was aghast at the news that a good friend had not only never heard, but had never heard of Ryan Adams. For that poor soul I present disc one of Cold Roses, one of Ryan's more artistically developed (sounds like the Dead), and critically well-received (unlike the Dead) albums of late. Enjoy. LINK:Ryan Adams: Cold RosesFor everybody else who already owns this one, be sure to check out

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-24608075968560698392007-10-08T19:40:00.000-07:002007-10-08T19:45:07.605-07:00

Here's a new video I spotted over on Dick Darlington. He's right, this is great stuff -- a must for any fan of BMX. :)Man, this one takes me back. Does anyone remember the old Nintendo cart called "California Games"? The BMX level? Man that was the shit. I was pro at that level and the hacky sack. Never could get down the half pipe level though -- that was nearly impossible. Rollerskating

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-49846561433465551932007-10-08T19:37:00.001-07:002007-10-08T19:37:35.821-07:00

Thanks for checking back. I'm still here. Some new stuff coming soon.

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-39363574000056851652007-09-28T09:58:00.001-07:002007-09-28T09:59:03.504-07:00

For the songs "Forks & Knives" off the new album.

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-48422521583394417812007-09-18T08:57:00.000-07:002007-09-18T09:01:54.341-07:00

Yet another reason to subscribe to eMusic -- they now have audio books available. I'm not sure if this is introductory or not, but right now you can get them for just one credit (the equivalent of one song). I pay $20 a month and get 75 credits, which is an awesome deal. If you're doing the math that's about $0.27 a song (or Audiobook in this case). That's 6-7 albums a month for $20, and

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-14180107210784755292007-09-12T07:59:00.000-07:002007-09-12T08:17:41.826-07:00

More non-music for a second. ESPN released their week 2 Power Rankings yesterday and I am appalled that New England has retained the top spot. First of all -- apparently they're cheaters. Second, the beat up on the f'ing Jets. Wow, you's guys is da mans!But check this: New England topped the Jets 38-14 (a margin of just 24 points) while allowing two offensive touchdowns. The Colts on the

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-83090828306889838602007-09-11T20:04:00.000-07:002007-09-11T20:17:00.502-07:00

Here's the new EP from Midlake. If you haven't checked out last year's Trials of Van Occupanther, do yourself a big favor. This new releases features an acoustic take on that album's first cut, plus a couple of leftovers. Word is the band is currently writing and recording the follow-up, which is said to have same 70s rock approach.Midlake: Oak and Julian EPIf you liked the last Band of Horses

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-66460820106919388332007-09-06T07:23:00.000-07:002007-09-06T07:27:15.353-07:00

You gotta love this bit from the Sports Guy on ESPN's Page 2. I am the (proud?) owner of Henry in at least one league... even though I think he'll probably bomb this year.15. Travis HenryA little scary because of the fumbling problem and Mike Shanahan's abject hatred for fantasy owners ... and that's before we get to last weekend's remarkable "nine kids by nine different women" revelation.

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-39344658244421317702007-08-30T06:43:00.000-07:002007-08-30T07:17:23.442-07:00

With the exception of the Jack White EP, all of this stuff is new or pre-new, so be sure to give it a listen. The one song I've heard from the new Prefuse 73 disc sounds like a return to form after a couple of sub-par (in my opinion) recent outings. Beirut should be an interesting listen at all, for anyone who loved the more developed full-band sound on the recent Lon Gisland EP. I also posted

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-1514861546308964482007-08-28T14:22:00.000-07:002007-08-28T14:30:05.965-07:00

I've been out of town and working late, so I haven't had much (additional) opporunity to sit in front of the computer and post new shit for you people. Soon!I am happy to note that there appear to be about 20 regular visitors to this blog. I've been keeping an eye on my Google Analytics. Thanks for continuing to check in. I promise this blog will not die. Don't be a afraid to leave a comment

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-76993023313756311132007-08-23T14:09:00.000-07:002007-08-23T14:45:36.681-07:00

The new Jens Lekman album could be described as "cuter than a button" which is an expression my grandma used to use, and one which never made much sense to me. Speaking of Grandmas, yours would probably dig Night Falls Over Kortedala because Jens is only one or two degrees removed from Frankie Valli or Barry Manilow. Jens has a clear knack for pop melodies, but he's soft and buttery. That's

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-46094782734741731562007-08-22T08:56:00.002-07:002007-08-22T09:12:57.590-07:00

"Why again do people like this band?" That's been my primary impression of Animal Collective since purchasing their Here Comes the Indian album on a recommendation. That was both scary, and really really boring. Noise collages just aren't for me.But, their new album, Strawberry Jam is nice and accessible -- almost campy for a band that has enjoyed most of their success on the predication that

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-11798033911552742912007-08-21T08:55:00.000-07:002007-08-21T09:15:29.902-07:00

Click on each cover for the corresponding All Music Guide review. LINKS:Television: Marquee MoonMiles Davis: Kind of BlueThe Beatles: Abbey RoadDaft Punk: Homework

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-12645116399074008872007-08-17T07:26:00.000-07:002007-08-17T16:11:43.331-07:00

Here's a bunch of links I gathered from the furthest reaches of the information superhighway, including a bunch of highly anticipated new releases that just hit. I'm especially stoked to check out the new Rogue Wave and Jens Lekman discs when I get home this evening.NEW:Rogue Wave: Asleep at Heaven's Gate (2)Jens Lekman: Night Falls over KortedalaHigh On Fire: Death is CommunionOkkervil River:

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-26001807996700979392007-08-16T10:12:00.000-07:002007-08-16T10:38:04.413-07:00

We're overdue for a couple of new posts around here, so here goes a couple of favorite discs from the early '00s. First up, a truly under appreciated gem from 2004, Alpha's Stargazing. There aren't enough great things to say about this album, if you're got a think for lush, low-key, vocal electronic. The songs here are almost all downtempo, and many of them feature some gorgeous, and very

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-47173984368898630162007-08-16T09:59:00.000-07:002007-08-16T10:09:08.568-07:00

Aaron Espinoza sounds even more like Elliott Smith than usual on this excellent disc from 2004. Therefore, common sense tells me that fans of Elliott Smith may enjoy listening to this. I wonder if anything has ever been written about these guys that did not mention Elliott Smith. Anyway, this is a great batch of sad songs with pretty melodies and nice lush instrumentation. LINK: Earlimart:

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-26294367815262846912007-08-14T08:58:00.000-07:002007-08-14T09:06:57.000-07:00

This soundtrack for the forthcoming Bob Dylan biopic, I'm Not There, looks mighty tasty. I'm excited to hear Cat Power take on "Stuck Inside of Mobile", Black Keys' "Wicked Messenger" and Steve Malkmus on "Ballad of a Thin Man." Also, this backing band assembled for the soundtrack -- The Million Dollar Bashers -- looks unreal, with John Medeski and members of Sonic Youth and Wilco all pitching

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-29389378375316285892007-08-10T06:43:00.001-07:002007-08-10T07:08:45.154-07:00

Here are a few discs I found via other blogs that might be of interest. LINKS:Sonic Youth: Daydream NationArchitecture in Helsinki: Places Like ThisSepultura: Best Of...T.Rex: Electric Warrior

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-11935794051896758322007-08-08T19:51:00.000-07:002007-08-08T20:33:41.275-07:00

Disagree if you must, but Metallica was probably the most important metal band of the 80s and 90s. They cracked the Top 30 on the charts with Puppets in 1986, with absolutely no radio airplay or MTV. But who cares about charts, these guys were bringing serious shit on every album they made between 1982-1992. They were reinventing metal with each new album -- making it truly epic for the first

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-47178729268507654972007-08-08T19:22:00.000-07:002007-08-08T19:34:24.119-07:00

This is Girl Talk's first album. That's about all I can say about that. Enjoy.LINK:Girl Talk: Secret Diary

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-65928155821222086492007-08-06T18:16:00.000-07:002007-08-06T18:55:55.734-07:00

Outside of First Avenue in Minneapolis. Lots of cool bands have played here.The docks just outside the University of Madison's student union. I love that people were swimming in the lake and sunset while there was a live band and half the town drinking a few feet away. Madison is a great town.Hanging with Megan's friend Claudio, at her high school reunion. Anyone ever seen MTV Mexico? Claudio is

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-25401733395861680442007-08-06T12:23:00.000-07:002007-08-06T12:39:31.562-07:00

One of the better download blogs out there, Peanut's Playground, has a user-generated Top 25 list out today. The best part: each and every record is posted for your listening pleasure. Click here to check it out.The Top 25 Albums of All-Time according to the readers of Peanut's Playground are:???My Bloody Valentine – Loveless (1991)Nirvana – Nevermind (1991)Portishead – Dummy (1994)Radiohead -

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-4672674176882327512007-08-05T21:34:00.000-07:002007-08-05T21:58:25.954-07:00

Anybody catch these guys at Lollapalooza this weekend? I skipped the festival this time out, but Annuals definitely would have made my schedule. This is their debut, and only (so-far) full-length release. Even though it does, I hate to say that this disc "shows promise" because really, it's better than that. In terms of songwriting maturity, this could already be the band at their peak.

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-58727059452004456202007-08-03T06:51:00.000-07:002007-08-03T06:58:15.300-07:00

Final Sc0re: Byron 234, Mike 241. Damn you Phil Collins! So yeah, more than a couple of surprises in the Top 10. And to think I almost went with Dave Grohl.Byron's Picks ::::Mike's Picks ::::Neil Peart22ndNeil Peart22ndJohn Bonham1stJohn Bonham1stKeith Moon2ndKeith Moon2ndMo Tucker9thRingo Starr26thCarl Palmer--Lars Ulrich--Stewart Copeland8thStewart Copeland8thGinger Baker16thMitch

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-43522000691410619722007-07-31T14:47:00.000-07:002007-08-05T21:51:23.332-07:00

Normally the whole dude-with-acoustic thing doesn't do much for me, but Josh Ritter is a different kind of dude-with-acoustic. Lyrically he's almost embarrassingly warm and charming. The songs themselves have that undeniable Woody Guthrie kind of authenticity, almost like there's a little role for all of us in each number. They're not all overwrought with emotion, just honest folk tunes from

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-45640291415362692222007-07-30T09:48:00.000-07:002007-07-30T14:09:07.448-07:00

Stylus has a great feature this week, counting down the top rock drummers of all time. Is John Bonham a shoe-in for #1? It's hard to say. Here's my list of drummers that might appear in the Top 10:Neil Peart (Rush)John Bonham (Led Zeppelin)Keith Moon (The Who)Ringo Starr (The Beatles)Lars Ulrich (Metallica)Stewart Copeland (The Police)Mitch Mitchell (Jimi Hendrix Experience)Dave Lombardo (

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-89998652816062468732007-07-27T07:06:00.000-07:002007-08-05T21:51:39.156-07:00

So I started linking each album covers to the corresponding All Music Guide review, so you guys can read a piece of writing by someone who has an editor, and actually gets paid to do it. My thoughts on this album: yeah, it's heavy, but not in the usual thick, chunky, metal way. Nor does it sound as sloppy and carefree as a hardcore punk record (not that I've heard too many of those). There

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-39619632635381796052007-07-27T05:10:00.000-07:002007-07-27T07:28:14.018-07:00

Here's an all-female band that fucking rocks. Is that sexist?LINK: Electrelane: No Shouts, No Calls

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-7812192113581355112007-07-26T18:12:00.000-07:002007-07-26T18:25:24.184-07:00

A Million Monkeys isn't the only blog talking about HBO's new show Flight of the Conchords. Apparantly, it is hilarious. I haven't seen it yet, but I did recently discover that episodes I and IV are available for download FOR FREE via iTunes. Go snag 'em up.NOTE: For some reason iTunes drops the episode in your podcast sort. It's not a podcast, it's a a movie file, so fear not.

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-45304398174642995832007-07-26T12:21:00.000-07:002007-07-26T12:30:52.914-07:00

Here's a clip from a fascinating new Dylan biopic that's set for release later this year. There are a series of actors set to play Bob, each portraying a different period of his life: Blanchett tackles Blonde On Blonde-era Dylan, Heath Ledger takes on the womanizing Dylan, Christian Bale as evangelist Bob of the lates 70s-early 80s and Richard Gere as the elder Dylan highlight the cast. Sure,

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-1802559529985155832007-07-26T07:57:00.000-07:002007-07-26T08:30:20.994-07:00

A masterpiece of '70s southern, country-rock, and a must-listen for fans of The Band, The Flying Burrito Bros, The Faces, Allman Bros and others. LINK: Little Feat: Dixie Chicken

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-36968048578019199672007-07-23T19:37:00.000-07:002007-07-23T19:46:13.350-07:00

This is their new EP. Their stuff seems a combination of a punky Architecture in Helsinki and the chick that sings the chorus in Len's "Steal My Sunshine." Seriously though, did that girl resurface in this band? This disc is a shorty but a goody. You can tell this is their first real recorded material because the songs have a shitload of energy, excitement and straight up youth. Quick

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-14549827280977314082007-07-22T20:31:00.001-07:002007-07-22T21:42:34.742-07:00

Great song and one of the more intense videos I've seen lately. Low budget animation at its best!Their whole EP is kickin'. I will try to hunt it down.

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-45600012018095711622007-07-22T19:13:00.000-07:002007-07-22T19:47:36.595-07:00

This is Hot Chip's second, and ultimately poorly-received, album. If you know Hot Chip, you've probably heard their most recent release, The Warming, and this is in many ways a warm up for that album. There's a ton of potential on this disc, and a lot of tracks have a demo-ish feel. Really, the cover says it all: incomplete, under produced, synthesized, two-tone, dry, straightforward,

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-40793067174413841242007-07-20T07:02:00.000-07:002007-07-20T07:15:49.087-07:00

The first word that comes to mind when I hear this disc -- and specifically in the case of the first few songs -- is "blistering." Maybe it's a B-L-I thing, or maybe because it's just dirty, raw, down-home rock that sounds like it was recorded with a bunch of shitty microphones. It's not down-home in a Skynard sense, but more like the noise that comes from the basement of so many suburban homes

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-73545614669115704512007-07-19T21:51:00.000-07:002007-07-19T22:19:28.707-07:00

I'm headed to Minneapolis in a couple of weeks, and what better way to celebrate then to throw out a post from the quintessential Minny band, The 'placements. That is unless you prefer Husker Du, or Soul Asylum, or Prince, or the Jayhawks. Was there ever a cooler music scene than Minny in the 80s and early 90s?LINK:The Replacements: Don't You Know Who I Think I WasIt's a best-of, but I think

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-72963739202996234262007-07-19T21:46:00.000-07:002007-07-19T21:59:33.544-07:00

I can't help myself. I must constantly mess with the template of this blog. Hey... Byron is back blogging. Go Byron.

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-65475834013922936072007-07-19T21:07:00.000-07:002007-07-20T07:16:45.859-07:00

Music for a rainy day. The best thing about RHP is that they sound like your friend's friend's band. The record is low budget, but it absolutely reeks of passion and certainty. LINK:Red House Painters: self-titled (AKA "Rollercoaster")

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-49014454319370262622007-07-18T09:41:00.000-07:002007-07-20T07:19:29.828-07:00

Hello readers -- I'm still here. Sorry, I've been away from the house quite a bit over the last few weeks and haven't had much time to scour for content to post on this mother. Here are a couple of quick links you will hopefully enjoy.The Jayhawks: Hollywood Town Hall -- Say what you will about Uncle Tupelo, Old 97s, etc -- to me the Jayhawks release of Hollywood was the true watershed moment /

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-43952658571088292102007-07-10T07:12:00.000-07:002007-07-19T21:14:19.558-07:00

Here's the new one from Iron & Wine, and it is outstanding... his best since The Creek Drank the Cradle. That's saying something because over 2 albums and 3 EPs, his work has always progressed artistically, and been strikingly consistent. The Shepherd's Dog finds Sam Beam taking on gradually more expansive arrangements and instrumentation. If the muddy homemade recordings on Creek showed

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-8803176493174550672007-07-10T05:42:00.000-07:002007-07-19T22:20:15.822-07:00

Haven't had a chance to listen to this one yet, but the solo album from Animal Collective member, Panda Bear, that came out earlier this year was excellent. Critics typically fawn over this group, and their albums are always worth a listen. LINK:Animal Collective: Strawberry Jam

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-17186523550273401372007-07-03T20:51:00.000-07:002007-07-03T21:00:29.139-07:00

CDs I'm bringing on a 4 hour roadtrip with the momms, between Manchester, NH and Bar Harbor:The Band - The Last WaltzWilco - Being ThereThe Beatles - Past Masters Volume 2The Best of Taj MahalPhil Collins - Hits!Crosby, Still, Nash & Young - Four Way StreetBelle & Sebastian - If You're Feeling SinisterGrateful Dead - Two From the VaultPostal Service - Give UpIron & Wine - Our Endless Numbered

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-49074194734850805472007-07-01T20:55:00.001-07:002007-07-01T21:01:32.812-07:00

Hey everybody -- I'm taking off to Maine for the 4th to visit fam. I'll be back the week of July 9.Here's some Acadia National Park pics from last time I was up there. You should really go sometime.

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-71511902101058221812007-06-29T13:46:00.001-07:002007-07-22T18:56:56.920-07:00

To celebrate, here is my favorite Sesame Street bit ever. "If Moon Was Cookie" by Cookie Monster. Enjoy.

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-80614669628940642442007-06-28T09:04:00.000-07:002007-06-28T12:55:24.448-07:00

Don't judge a book by it's cover, because let's face it, covers don't get much worse than that. Here's the question -- are we viewing the palm or the back of that hand?Thanks to Dick Darlington for hunting this one down. First listen: not blown away, but pretty happy with the results.Soooo many highly-anticipated records leaking lately. I'll be on the lookout for links to other new ones, and

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-52448973795433932682007-06-27T13:35:00.000-07:002007-06-27T14:11:00.022-07:00

A few quick words on some shows I caught recently. Feist (w/ Grizzly Bear) @ The Vic TheatreIt's the little creaks, creaks, and subtle vocal inflections that make Feist such a joy to listen to. On her records you can hear it in the way she cascades her phrases and cuts off her enunciations. It is really hard to get an appreciation for it when you see her live. Aside from super-intimate tracks

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-7591358325251751882007-06-27T13:30:00.000-07:002007-06-27T13:35:12.019-07:00

LINK:The Wrens: The Meadowlands

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-90909787054394657292007-06-26T20:42:00.001-07:002007-06-26T20:47:04.275-07:00

Very good album from last year. Sounds like Fleetwood Mac they say.LINK:Midlake - The Trials of Van Occupanther

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-84469601131860138432007-06-21T12:06:00.000-07:002007-06-21T12:31:02.309-07:00

If you love Illinois, you're gonna like Michigan, Ole Suf-boy's home state and initial foray in to the much-discussed 50 states project. Though it is stylistically similar to it's follower, the album is little less dense and melodically developed, with fewer ensemble-oriented tunes and more of a solo and rock-band feel. Highlights:"Flint" -- one of Suf's better solo piano ballads"For the Widows

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-13205167856218504242007-06-20T20:33:00.000-07:002007-06-20T21:09:50.362-07:00

When it comes to Ryan Adams, two things are certain: The man is a total self-absorbed douchebag, and also happens to be one of the most talented -- not to mention prolific -- songwriters of our time. I don't really mind the guy's personality, because let's face it, it's interesting. Rock'n Roll needs more loose mouths, and fewer poster boys. Here, in it's entirety, is probably one of the more

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-59857198830186959802007-06-18T16:14:00.000-07:002007-06-19T11:34:23.495-07:00

No doubt this one will be included in a future chronicle of worst album covers of all-time. What's inside is pretty interesting though, and about as out-there as the cover art. I suppose I'd describe it as electronic psychedelia, with a little smidge of instrumental hip-hop thrown in for variatino. That's a pretty shitty explanation I realize. Listen for yourself. LINK:Black Moth Super

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-61531513009421234712007-06-15T05:27:00.000-07:002007-06-15T08:59:16.889-07:00

It doesn't happen very often, but here's a dance/disco (you be the judge) record that's completely tearing my shit apart. It's like someone took a rusty chainsaw to the usual nice, clean, tightly produced micro-house record. This album barks. It's not safe for children. This album has fucking rabies.Give the first track, "Genesis" a listen:I may still be in lust (only one full listen through)

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-65005249264556785102007-06-14T20:44:00.002-07:002007-06-14T20:52:50.125-07:00

I have to disagree. To me a dynasty is a team that has dominated for at least 3 years, without error. This team has now won 4 championships in 9 years, but none consecutively -- which to me, is required if you want to talk the dynasty talk. The Spurs are a great team, no doubt, but they're not a dynasty yet.Tony Parker and Eva Longoria... now there's a dynasty. Did she get co-MVP honors? Is

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-15535397940636332202007-06-12T06:46:00.000-07:002007-06-12T06:59:59.892-07:00

It's been a few days, so here's a couple of quickies to keep you busy, including Andrew Bird as requested. I also found new ones from White Rabbit, Battles (hot), Elliott Smith, Spoon and the long-dormant Greyboy Allstars. This self-titled release from Besnard Lakes is also one of the more interesting rock listens of the year. BL might have actually one-upped My Morning Jacket in terms of

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-4259183862431913512007-06-07T09:45:00.000-07:002007-06-07T10:04:52.882-07:00

According to several sites frequented by yours truly, The White Stripes new one, Icky Thump, has "sort of leaked." Here is the album, though many of the tracks feature lead-ins from local Chicago rock station, Q101. The quality is actually pretty good still. A handful of the tracks probably came through other sources and do not have lead ins (the title cut has been out for a few weeks).

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-54371900865040222492007-06-06T16:48:00.000-07:002007-06-06T20:44:08.325-07:00

One of my Top 3 albums from 2006, Rubies can be a very rewarding listen if you don't mind (1) a lead singer who voice is unconventional enough that it warrants comparison (inaccurately, IMO) to Bob Dylan in the mid 1970s, (2) lyrics that might seem abstract and meaningless, but also completely smack you in the face with a brilliant line or two on occasion, (3) a stream-of-consciousness approach

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-76593562617679152202007-06-06T07:52:00.000-07:002007-06-06T08:03:33.282-07:00

Thanks to Mike for providing the link to this slice of digi-liquid-funktronic-ness. If you like synthesizers, BIG New Order-style beats, and vocoders, this one's for you. Kinda sounds like what Morris Day & the Time might have come up with, had they had the benefit of computers in the early 80s. The track "Needy Girl" is a clear standout, but the whole album is pretty solid... if you like

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-14587914167445368352007-06-04T19:46:00.001-07:002007-06-04T20:00:47.730-07:00

Is this thing on? Is anyone downloading the stuff I post here? Anyone having problems downloading these files?I'd love to hear more about what everyone is listening to, what they'd like to see here on the site, etc. I added a shoutbox on the sidebar. Feel free to post whatever you want there. Cheers.

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-10635907580770898392007-06-04T19:07:00.000-07:002007-06-04T20:05:56.001-07:00

Here's a great, and under appreciated effort from MF Doom alter-ego, King Geedorah. Thanks to Rob for fixing me up with this one back in the day. Leader finds Doom helming the production effort as well, and it shows some distinct flavor that combines monster movie samples with dense guitar, string and synth loops (see "Fazers" and "Krazy World"). There are also more stripped down cuts ("

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-80020840232048321102007-06-03T15:03:00.002-07:002007-06-04T20:41:46.382-07:00

UPDATE: Sorry gang, this one got pulled. Let me know if you didn't get a chance to snag it.Big thanks to An Aquarian Exposed, who provide the link below. Rejoice, the new Beastie's disc is here in full. It's labeled as an advance, but sounds like a final mix to me. Love it so far! It's sure to provide background music for many sports highlights, and soda drink commercials to come. DOWNLOAD:

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-40053096458564964922007-05-22T14:44:00.000-07:002007-05-22T15:34:16.904-07:00

Once Stage Names, the new Okkervil album coming August hits I'll have a few hundred more plays piled on to the old Last.fm tracker (which, by the way, you should get). Here's the opening cut from the album, and it's predictably mega. Even better it shows that Okkervil River continue to explore some new directions while refining everything that made their last album Black Sheep Boy the best

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-28453525663831365422007-05-21T14:12:00.000-07:002007-05-21T14:31:07.559-07:00

One of the more underrated albums of 2006 in my opinion. Perhaps it was the album cover? The first three cuts are like an unstoppable force of sugary pop-rock goodness. Then the record kind of taper's off. Those first three cuts though... wow. The rest of the album is still pretty good, but again, can't stress the quality of the first three songs enough.Don't miss a chance to see these guys

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-22856855226397494692007-05-21T13:57:00.000-07:002007-05-21T14:07:26.285-07:00

Recorded in 1978, this album is a glorified demo tape used by Los Lobos to nab restaurant and weddings gigs around L.A. at the time. The album features some very well-known cuts (the versions of both "Guantanamera" and "Sabor a Mi" are highlights) and a huge vareity of folk song genres, ranging from Ranchera ro Bolero to Son. Even if you don't speak a lick of Spanish, you'll appreciate the

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-83828100329189835382007-05-20T09:16:00.002-07:002007-05-20T09:25:05.123-07:00

This new all-instrumental B-Boys album is going to be excellent. I'm totally stoked they decided to return to this approach, but who would have thought we'd get an entire album?"Off the Grid""The Rat Cage" Fingers crossed that they filmed videos for every song and will release as DVD-audio.

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-39183690186650419072007-05-14T21:08:00.000-07:002007-05-14T21:11:49.915-07:00

Ouch. Pitchfork's Rob Mitchum takes a stab at the new Wilco album, and he's right on. "Despite the experimental pedigree of their new lineup, Wilco's sixth album finds them receding into the comfort zone. The result is an album that exposes the dad-rock gene the band has always carried but attempted to disguise-- the stylistic equivalent of a wardrobe change into sweatpants and a tank top."

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-15928812847084098652007-05-13T10:45:00.000-07:002007-05-13T11:01:03.385-07:00

If you love the late-'60s, horn-driven Stax sound, then say hello to your new favorite soul record, err... collection of files. Check out the male-female interply on "Stranded in Your Love," and the hot HOT take on Woody Guthrie's "This Land is Your Land," where the horns continue to add one saucy layer after another. This album probably should have been recorded in 1968, but it's nice to know

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-20326275094363315442007-05-12T07:17:00.000-07:002007-05-14T06:53:11.819-07:00

My favorite album so far in 2007. People say it sounds like E.L.O. They're right about that. DOWNLOAD:New Magnetic Wonder (removed by request)HIGHLIGHTS:Same Old DragSunndal SongPlay Tough7 StarsOpen Eyes

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-6097241526940200022007-05-03T20:10:00.000-07:002007-05-03T20:53:26.246-07:00

Mark my words: favorite MTV Unplugged ever. Yes, more than Nirvana. More than Clapton (which, yes, I like). This came towards the end of the long-running series, and in many ways got lost on time. Jay gets backing from the Roots and Mary J. Blige and they are ON. Hov blasts through all the hits to that point, and the band makes them sound completely fresh. Listen to the way the string

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-6869394349778176682007-05-03T20:00:00.000-07:002007-05-03T20:35:48.196-07:00

Often thought of as Belle & Sebastian with a female vocalist, Camera Obscura put out this twee-pop monster in 2006 and (in my opinion) out-Belle'd the Belles at their own game. This record just drips with beautiful melodies and full, lush arrangements. It also sounds like half these songs were tracked in 1965 -- very cool retro-production feel. DOWNLOAD:Camera Obscura - Let's Get Out of This

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13650818.post-29134591403729438642007-05-03T09:45:00.000-07:002007-05-03T09:59:28.873-07:00

Here's an fantastic EP from Scott Herren (a.k.a. Prefuse 73) moniker / side-project, Savath & Savales. Most S&S material might be described as "Ambient Spanish electro-folk," but this particular release leans more heavily on glitching and sound gadgetry that's normally associated with the Prefuse releases. Don't expect instrumental hip hop though, these cuts show off Herron's calmer side. That

Mike H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/08767062465910588874noreply@blogger.com0