Love Is All: Nine Times The Same Song

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 makes the entire album sound like you're listening to it through a stereo system with a couple of blown speakers, and that somehow, that's a good thing.

As for style, they're really quite difficult to describe. I would say they are equal parts: The Rapture, The Mamas & the Papas, Cyndi Lauper and Husker Du. I know that sounds crazy, but you'll see what I mean.

This was one of my Top 3 of 2006. Hopefully you'll like it just the same.

LINK: Love Is All: Nine Times The Same Song

Los Campesinos - Sticking Fingers in to Sockets

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 changes, and a lot of ideas crammed in to small spaces. I'm curious to hear what some of you guys think of this band (play the video below and comment).

LINK:
Los Campesinos - Sticking Fingers in to Sockets

Peter, Bjorn & John - Writer's Block

It's true, this dude (Peter) sounds exactly like John Lennon sometimes. That might be enough for some, but it's not even the best part of this album. There's a reason people everywhere are falling in love with this band. First, they're one of the largest-sounding power trios I've heard in some time (check that wall of guitars on the 2nd track, "Objects of my affection"), but beyond that PB&J know how to utilize all available resources (double-tracking, percussion, guest vocalists, etc) to realize their sound.

This album is an instant classic. So get it now.

DOWNLOAD:
Peter, Bjorn & John - Writer's Block

HIGHLIGHTS:
Objects of My Affection
Young Folks
Up Against the Wall
Paris 2004
Let's Call the Whole Thing Off

Fujiya & Miyagi - Transparent Things

Thanks to Mike C. for uploading this one and sending it over. I haven't heard all of it yet, but I like so far. The muted vocal delivery and guitar tones remind me that Pinback is also a really kickass band, and that these guys sort of sound like them.

DOWNLOAD:
Fugiya & Miyagi - Transparent Things

REVIEWS:
AllMusic.com (4 Stars)
Pitchfork (8.3)
Stylus (B+)

Field Music - Tones of Town

This new record from Field Music is an excellent breather from the "Angular" styles that have dominated (indie) rock over the last few years. Plenty of luscious vocal harmonies and crisp syncopation, with the occasional '70s guitar lick (see the 0:50 mark of opener, "Give it, lose it, take it") thrown in for good measure. One of 2007's best so far, and a great soundtrack for the sunny days ahead.

DOWNLOAD: Field Music - Tones of Town

Highlights:
Give it, Lose It, Take it
Working to Work
In Context
A Gap Has Appeard -> Closer at Hand
She Can Do What She Wants

Info on Field Music from All Music Guide

Similar artists:
Apples in Stereo, New Pornographers, Futureheads, The Police