Friday, December 20, 2013

Burn the Bowery Favorite 20 Albums of 2013


So many great albums in 2013, a truly fantastic year for music in my opinion. Usually something I agonize over for weeks, this was one of the easiest year end lists I've made to date.
This year I'll be bringing you my top 5 albums list plus my best of the rest.
As always thanks for stopping in throughout the year it's much appreciated. Happy Holidays & Happy New Year!!

THE TOP  5:

#5 THE DODOS- CARRIER
A somber yet beautifully retrospective disc that deals with the death of their former bandmate Christopher Reimer. Same melodic qualities you would expect from the SF band with heavier themes this go round. One of their best.
Favorite track- "Confidence"
Other standouts- "Substance" "Holidays" and "The Current"











#4 NIGHT BEDS- COUNTRY SLEEP
Young and incredibly talented, Nashville's Winston Yellen released one of the years finest debut LP's. With a wild vocal range and heartfelt sentimental lyrics, this album is stacked from top to bottom with heartbreaking numbers.
Favorite track- "Lost Springs"
Other standouts- "22" "Even if We try" and "Cherry Blossoms"

 

#3 GAMBLES- TRUST
Tackling intensely personal subjects like divorce and miscarriage doesn't make Trust an easy listen.  But it's done so purely and so raw, just a voice and a guitar, that it's one of the most powerful things you'll hear this year.
Favorite track- "So I Cry Out"
Other standouts- "Animal" "Your Are the Truth" and "Angel"









#2 TYPHOON- WHITE LIGHTER
This big 11 piece orchestral collective out of Portland released their sophomore full length in 2013. A big, bold and joyful effort that juxtaposes singer Kyle Morton's songs about sickness, death and lost childhood.
Favorite track- "Young Fathers"
Other standouts- "Hunger and Thirst" "Common Sentiments" and "Dreams of Cannibalism"


#1 THE NATIONAL- TROUBLE WILL FIND ME
If you know me I'm sure this comes as no surprise at all. I don't hide the fact that The National are my favorite band. As obscure as their lyrics can sometimes be there's always been something that speaks to me in Berninger's anxiety filled stories. As nerve wracking as it can be when a favorite artist releases something new,  Trouble Will Find Me did not disappoint in any way shape or form. It's way too early to judge if it's their best album to date, but it does see the group hitting their stride and sounding as confident and tight as ever.
Favorite track- "Don't Swallow the Cap"
Other standouts- "Pink Rabbits" "Heavenfaced" and "I Should Live in Salt"


THE BEST OF THE REST (in alphabetical order):

CAVEMAN- SELF TITLED


CHVRCHES- THE BONES OF WHAT YOU BELIEVE


DAUGHTER- IF YOU LEAVE


FRIGHTENED RABBIT- PEDESTRIAN VERSE


GENERATIONALS- HEZA


HAYDEN- US ALONE


LOCAL NATIVES- HUMMINGBIRD


MODERN KIN- SELF TITLED


PARQUET COURTS- LIGHT UP GOLD


PHOSPHERESCENT- MUCHACHO


PICKWICK- CANT TALK MEDICINE


VAMPIRE WEEKEND- MODERN VAMPIRES OF THE CITY


WATER LIARS- WYOMING


WAXAHATCHEE- CERULEAN SALT


JESSE WOODS- GET YOUR BURDENS LIFTED



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2013 Highlights: Elvis Depressedly: "Pepsi/Coke Suicide"

The project of Mat Cothran, Elvis Depressedly released an EP Holo Pleasures this April that featured the warm and fuzzy track, "Pepsi/Coke Suicide." One of my most played songs in 2013.

http://elvisdepressedly.bandcamp.com

Thursday, December 19, 2013

2013 Highlights: Deer Tick- "The Rock"

Been highlighting some tracks that meant a lot to me during 2013 that I never had a chance to post about. Providence Rhode Island band Deer Tick released their 5th album in 2013, and although I must be honest it wasn't my favorite disc of theirs, it did feature the standout track, "The Rock" which was one of 2013's finest Rock tracks.

http://deertickmusic.com

Tuesday, December 17, 2013

2013 Highlights: Lightning Dust- "Diamond"

One of my absolute favorite tracks of 2013 came from the Vancouver duo Amber Webber and Josh Wells, known as Lightning Dust. The group is a side project when their not working under their other band Black Mountain, and the duo's 3rd LP Fantasy came out this year. It features this gorgeous synth laden track "Diamond" that you can watch the video for below.  

https://www.facebook.com/lightningdustofficial

Friday, December 13, 2013

2013 Highlights: Brazos-"How the Ranks Was Won"

Putting the spotlight on some tracks or Artists that maybe I was never able to get around to talking about during the year, but yet still played a major part in my music listening habits during 2013.

This former Austin band is now based in Brooklyn and they released their second full length in 2013 titled, Saltwater. It features the slow building jam "How The Ranks Was Won" that found me breaking out the air drums on many occasions.

http://www.brazosbrazos.com

Wednesday, December 11, 2013

New Music: Water Liars- "I Want Blood"

Mississippi band Water Liars sure don't waste any time. Although their stellar 2nd LP Wyoming came out just this past March, the group are already rolling out plans for their third album. The self titled disc gets released February 4th via Fat Possum Records, and you can stream the first single from the album titled "I Want Blood" below.

http://waterliarsmusic.com

James Vincent McMorrow-"Red Dust"

With 2013 coming to a close soon, it's that time of year where we start to look ahead to the New Year and all it has to offer. One of the things I am most looking forward to is this new album from James Vincent McMorrow, Post Tropical. It's his sophomore effort and he just offered up the second sneak peak off the disc with the new song, "Red Dust."
Post Tropical comes out this Jan. 14th on Vagrant Records..

http://jamesvmcmorrow.com

Thursday, December 5, 2013

Augustines- "Nothing to Lose But Your Head"

Yesterday Augustines released the second piece of music off their forthcoming sophomore LP. We heard "Cruel City"(listen here) a month or so ago, now comes the new track "Nothing to Lose But Your Head."
The as of yet untitled album is scheduled for release this February 4th.

http://www.weareaugustines.com

Wednesday, December 4, 2013

New Music: The War on Drugs- "Red Eyes"

Philly's Adam Granduciel, better known as The War On Drugs just announced plans for his 3rd LP, Lost in The Dream. It comes out this March 18th on Secretly Canadian and it features this sweeping first single called "Red Eyes."

http://www.thewarondrugs.net

Tuesday, December 3, 2013

Jose Gonzalez- "Step Out" (from The Secret Life of Walter Mitty soundtrack)

I'm such a sucker for big climactic soaring songs like this one. But I love it even more knowing that it comes from the usually hush and mellow Jose Gonzalez. "Step Out" appears on the soundtrack for the upcoming Ben Stiller film, The Secret Life of Walter Mitty.
Watch the trailer for the movie HERE.



No Ceremony- "Awayfromhere" (ft. James Vincent McMorrow)

Although I've heard a few No Ceremony tracks this year, this one the Manchester band did featuring the brilliant James Vincent McMorrow on lead vocals seemed to escape me. Luckily it just got the video treatment and came to my attention via the good folks over at Stereofox.
Watch out for JVM's new LP Post Tropical which comes out this January 14th.
http://jamesvmcmorrow.com
http://www.noceremony.com

Friday, November 22, 2013

There Will Be Fireworks- "Youngblood"

I was a big fan of this Scottish bands 2009 debut, and now after a four year break the band is back with their second LP titled The Dark, Dark Bright. Falling somewhere between fellow countrymen Frightened Rabbit and The Twilight Sad, the bands music has the ability to be both sad and melancholy and explosive and raw.
The new LP comes out this Nov. 25th and it features the single, "Younblood" which you can watch a new video for below.

There Will be Fireworks Facebook page

Monday, November 18, 2013

New Music: Damien Jurado- "Silver Timothy"

Damien Jurado will be releasing his 11th studio album sometime next month titled, Brothers and Sisters of the Eternal Sun. He just released the first single today, and if you think the title has a psychedelic feel to it, you can listen to the spacey jam of a first single, "Silver Timothy" which Jurado unveiled a new video for.

http://damienjurado.com

Tuesday, November 12, 2013

Get to Know: Ezra Vine- "Celeste"

One of my favorite discoveries of late is this track from New Zealand musician, Ezra Vine called "Celeste." Vine apparently released a few tracks earlier this year under the name 'Les Enfants' that caught some buzz on bandcamp and landed him in the top sellers of their folk category.
I wish I had some more info on this one, but there's not much out there besides the news that the track comes off a forthcoming EP due later this month.

http://www.ezravine.com

Monday, November 11, 2013

Float Fall- "Someday" live version

This has been one of my favorite tracks to come out this year. Watch Belgian duo, Float Fall playing "Someday" live at Studio Brussel in Belgium.

 http://www.floatfall.com

Friday, November 8, 2013

Modern Kin- "Pony"

You might know Drew Grow from his previous work with Drew Grow and the Pastors Wives. The band now has a slimmed down roster and a new name, Modern Kin. They just released their self titled debut in late Oct. and it's filled with brilliant rousing tracks like this one called, "Pony."
Check out the rest of the album on the groups bandcamp page HERE.

Update: "Pony" is now down on the bands bandcamp page, listen to it here on Soundcloud.


The National-"Lean" (from Hunger Games Catching Fire soundtrack)

The new Hunger Games Catching Fire Soundtrack is coming out later this month and it features some big names like Of Monsters and Men, The Lumineers, Lorde, and Coldplay. But the track I was most interested in hearing was from The National who lent the song,"Lean" to the collection.  Typically great stuff, give it a try below. The soundtrack hits stores on Nov. 19th.

http://americanmary.com

Tuesday, October 22, 2013

Gambles- "265" & "So I Cry" Out (Live Acoustic Session)

Gambles debut album Trust came out earlier this month, and it's all sorts of wonderful. Check out these powereful acoustic performances of album tracks"265" and "So I Cry" that he performed for the folks at Shufsounds.


http://www.gmbls.com

Thursday, October 17, 2013

The National- "I Need My Girl" (Acoustic Version)

While in Austin for the ACL Festival, The National stopped by the Gibson guitars showroom and played this lovely acoustic version of "I Need My Girl."

Wednesday, October 16, 2013

New Music: James Vincent McMorrow- “Cavalier”

Yesterday saw the release of a new James Vincent McMorrow track “Cavalier.” It comes from his forthcoming 2014 sophomore LP, Post Tropical. It's a beauty of a slow builder and a noticeably new direction for JVM, featuring synths and thick layers of beats. Post Tropical drops this Jan. 14th via Vagrant Records.


http://jamesvmcmorrow.com/

Tuesday, October 15, 2013

Typhoon- "Young Fathers" (Live Acoustic Session for Austin 360)

I haven't seen many videos capture the mesmerizing quality of the massive Portland ensemble, Typhoon. This acoustic session the band played for Austin360 while in town for the ACL Festival comes pretty darn close though. Watch the bands performance of "Young Fathers" below.

http://www.wearetyphoon.com/
http://www.Austin360.com

Monday, October 7, 2013

The National (live at Stubbs, Austin 10-5-13)

Here's a few pics from The National's show in Austin this past Saturday night at Stubbs. It was my fourth time seeing the band overall and first time on this tour. I'd have to say it was probably the best set I've seen them play, with the new material sounding especially strong. Catch the whole setlist at the bottom after the photo's. 




THE NATIONAL (10-5-13) Stubbs, Austin Tx. Setlist 
I Should Live in Salt
Don't Swallow the Cap
Bloodbuzz Ohio
Demons
Sea of Love
Afraid of Everyone
Conversation 16
Squalor Victoria
Abel
All the Wine
I Need My Girl
This is the Last Time
Apartment Story
Pink Rabbits
Graceless
About Today
Fake Empire

Encore
Humiliation
Mr. November
Terrible Love w/ Justin Vernon
Vanderlyle Crybaby Geeks w/ Justin Vernon

New Video: Augustines-"Cruel City"

Last month Augustines debuted the first track "Cruel City" off their upcoming new album, which is slated for an early 2014 release. Today the band brought us the track in video form. Watch the new clip directed by Bryan Schlam below.

http://www.weareaugustines.com/

Friday, October 4, 2013

Kalle Mattson- "Darkness"

Kalle Mattson just released another new track off his forthcoming third LP. The new tune titled "Darkness" is the split to his previously released "American Dream" single which we previewed back in August. No release date yet slated for the new LP, so stay tuned.

http://www.kallemattson.com/

Wednesday, October 2, 2013

The Head and the Heart -"Another Story"

It's hard to believe that it's been almost 4 years since The Head and the Heart released their debut LP. The Seattle band is now readying their sophomore effort, Let's Be Still which hits stores Oct. 15 via Sub Pop. They just debuted a fresh track off the upcoming disc called "Another Story." Listen and read along below.

Typhoon "Morton's Fork" (Lawrence High School Classroom Sessions)

In case you've been living under a rock lately, Typhoon released one of the better albums to come out in the past several months called, White Lighter. Earlier this month the band stopped by Room 125 at Lawrence High School in Lawrence, Kansas and played a gorgeous version of the album track, "Morton's Fork." The song was filmed and edited by Lawrence High School's film/media students.

http://www.wearetyphoon.com/

Tuesday, October 1, 2013

David Ramirez- “Ball and Chain”

A new tune from David Ramirez to grace your ears this morning. This one called Ball and Chain was recorded at the Hotel Cafe with backing vocals provided by Amy Stroup.

http://davidramirezmusic.com/

Wednesday, September 25, 2013

The Saint Johns- "Your Head and Your Heart"

I've had this Nashville duo on my radar since back in January when I discovered their song, "Your Head and Your Heart." The pair, Louis Johnson and Jordan Meredith now officially released the track via iTunes and it came with the added announcement of a new forthcoming EP titled, Open Water, which gets a release date of this Oct. 15th. Give a listen below.

https://www.facebook.com/TheSaintJohns

Thursday, September 19, 2013

RY X- “Berlin” live for Cardinal Sessions

While out on tour in Germany RY X sat down for the folks at Cardinal Sessions and played this lovely version of his song “Berlin.” The track comes off his debut EP of the same name, which is in stores now.

http://www.ry-x.com/
http://www.cardinalsessions.com/

Wednesday, September 18, 2013

Washed Out- “All I Know”

This new album from Washed Out has been the perfect end of Summer soundtrack. Take a listen to the track “All I Know below, and pick up his sophomore LP Paracosm which is out now via Sub Pop. 

http://washedout.net/

Thursday, September 12, 2013

Augustines-"Cruel City"

It really doesn't matter whether the name is Pela, We Are Augustines, or just Augustines, Billy McCarthy and Eric Sanderson have been longtime favorites here on the blog. After the split up of Pela around 2009 the band re-formed as We Are Augustines and released their triumphant debut disc, Rise Ye Sunken Ships, which just so happened to have nabbed my 2011 'best album of the year' honors. Drummer Rob Allen joined the guys soon after and they took to the road for most of 2011 and 2012 touring and gaining support for the new project. Almost two years later the band has another slight change, renaming themselves simply, Augustines, and a new LP on the way. They just unveiled a brand new track off it yesterday titled, "Cruel City." 
The as yet untitled LP has a due date of January 21st, 2014.

http://www.weareaugustines.com/

New Video: Gambles- "So I Cry Out"

Sometimes a song will come along that just hits you like a punch in the gut. The lyrics, the emotion, the story, that perfect combination that can create goosebumps. That's how I got when I first heard the tunes of Matthew Daniel Siskin aka Gambles, and how I still feel today with each new track I discover from this talented new artist. His debut full length Trust comes out this Oct. 1st and it features this stunner of a track, "So I Cry Out" which he just premiered a new video for.

http://www.gmbls.com/

Wednesday, September 11, 2013

Volcano Choir- "Byegone" (Live on Fallon) 9/10/13

Volcano Choir's new album 'Repave' hit stores recently, and to celebrate the band made their network television debut on Late Night with Jimmy Fallon last night. Watch the band perform the track "Byegone" below.

http://volcanochoir.com/

Monday, September 9, 2013

New Video: Hayden- "Blurry Nights"

One of the true 'sleeper' albums of 2013 is Us Alone from Toronto Canada's, Hayden. It features the fantastic track, "Blurry Nights" which has standout guest vocals by Lou Canon. Watch the new video below.

http://wasteyourdaysaway.com/ 

Thursday, September 5, 2013

Get to Know: Valley Maker

One of my favorite new finds lately is the Austin Crane led project, Valley Maker. Crane began releasing music under his own name while in college in Columbia, South Carolina a few years ago. Now he's relocated to Seattle, WA. and Crane just debuted his second full length, Yes I know I’ve Loved This World. Two songs that have stayed on heavy repeat include, "By My Side (Everlasting Life)" and "Only Time."
Listen below and stream the whole album over on Valley Maker's Bandcamp page now. 


http://valleymaker.com/

Friday, August 30, 2013

Wildcat! Wildcat!- "Garden Grays"

The Los Angeles trio Wildcat! Wildcat! will be releasing their much buzzed about self-titled debut EP next month. The band just debuted another new track from the EP, the dreamy end of Summer jam, “Garden Grays.” 
The Wildcat! Wildcat! EP is out Sept. 10 via Downtown Records.

 http://wildcatwildcat.com/

Wednesday, August 28, 2013

New Music: Kalle Mattson- "An American Dream/Darkness"

Woke up pretty excited this morning to find new music from Canada's, Kalle Mattson. He just unveiled a new split 7" titled "American Dream/Darkness" which comes as a preview from his soon to be released third LP produced by The Wooden Sky's Gavin Gardiner. Seriously looking forward to hearing more from this down the road, stay tuned.

http://www.kallemattson.com/

New Video: The National- "Graceless"

If it seems like all things on the blog these days are related to The National, it's probably because they're my favorite band who just so happen to have put out my favorite album so far this year, Trouble Will Find Me. See the the bands take on the album track, "Graceless" below, which they just released a comical new video for.

http://www.americanmary.com/

Monday, August 26, 2013

Shakey Graves- "Roll the Bones" (live session)

One of Austin's finest, the one man show known as Shakey Graves. Watch and learn.

http://shakeygraves.com/

Tuesday, August 20, 2013

Song of the Week: Gambles- "So I Cry Out"

There may not be an artist's music that has touched me more this year than the work of Matthew Daniel Siskin, Aka Gambles. His 'Far From Your Arms' EP has been on constant repeat with it's stripped back raw sound and emotional lyrics cutting right through me.
Gambles also has a debut full length on the way called Trust, and it hits shelves this Oct.1. The LP features the heart-breaker of a track "So I Cry Out" which premiered yesterday on Stereogum.  


GAMBLES- "SO I CRY OUT"
so here we are
in the final stand
kids grown up
by the hardest
of circumstance
its sad to blame
when things
go from good
to dark
we tried a very
long time to start
so I cry out
and I cry out
and you
hide your eyes
so I cry out
and I cry out
our world
we can not
recognize
but if we had
made
what we tried
to have
that boy or girl
would have
been
so loved
had a dad
so I'll cry out
and I cry out
and you just
hold my hand
so I'll cry out
and I cry out
but you
cannot look
in my eyes
and love
has hands
while the moon
holds the tiniest
eye
but whose to choose
who will grow
who will laugh
who will die
so I cry out
and I cry out
and you
cannot look at me
so I cry out
and I cry out
I wish that I felt
differently
so here we are
in the final stand
kids grown up
by the hardest
of circumstance

find more at http://www.gmbls.com/

Monday, August 19, 2013

Rayland Baxter: 'AshkeLon'

Rayland Baxter has a new five-song digital EP, AshkeLon out tomorrow, Aug. 20th.
The EP is named after the town in Israel where Baxter spent a pivotal time of his life. It was recorded live in one day, at East Nashville's Casino studio, and features three new songs as well as alternative versions of "the mtn song" and "driveway meLody," which were featured on his critically acclaimed debut,  feathers & fishHooks.
Baxter says...“AshkeLon is where I started writing songs and where I have returned numerous times. For me, that was where this all began," ... "It’s a very special place. It’s my little green garden in the desert.” (via Paste)

http://www.raylandbaxter.com/

Friday, August 16, 2013

The National: Live on 89.3 The Current

Watch The National play tracks "Don't Swallow The Cap" and "Pink Rabbits" for 89.3 The Current.



and as long as I'm on my big The National kick today, you might as well check out their 'full set' from Lollapalooza from a few weeks back too.

http://www.americanmary.com/

Wednesday, August 14, 2013

New music from Volcano Choir- "Comrade"

Several weeks back the Justin Vernon led project Volcano Choir released the first track off their soon to be released LP, Repave called "Byegone." It was a big soaring number, extremely promising, and had me wondering what the rest of the album would shape out to be. Well today the band just offered up another new track titled, "Comrade" that is equally as impressive. Go give it a spin below.
Volcano Choir's 'Repave' comes out September 3rd on Jagjaguwar

http://volcanochoir.com/

Tuesday, August 13, 2013

Get to Know: RY X- "Berlin"

RY X has a new EP coming out called, Berlin this Aug. 28th. Originally from Australia but now based out of L.A., RY X has often been compared to Bon Iver due to his soft falsetto. Don't let that sway you either way though, just see for yourself and give a listen to the emotional title track below.



http://www.ry-x.com/

Thursday, August 8, 2013

Watch Bears Den Cover "Don't Save Me" by Haim

U.K. trio Bears Den recently broke news that Agape, their debut EP will be getting a U.S. release date this August 27 via Communion Records. To celebrate the release, the band will be kicking off several tour dates in the States with Mumford & Sons and Daughter. 
If you head over to their website now you can grab yourself a copy of the song "Isaac" which is available for free download. http://www.bearsdenmusic.co.uk/
Also be sure to watch their excellent cover of the Haim track, "Don't Save Me" below.


Wednesday, August 7, 2013

Western Lows- "'Grapevine"

I've always had a little soft spot for some 90's shoegaze, and L.A. band Western Lows pay homage with their latest track, "Grapevine." The song comes off their recently released album Glacial which is out now via Jaxart Records.

 https://www.facebook.com/WesternLows

Monday, August 5, 2013

Die Mason Die- "You're Lonely"

Young and talented London quartet Die Mason Die's music has been described as ghost-folk. One listen to their haunting new single "You're Lonely" and you'll fully understand why. "You're Lonely" will be released September 9th via Young & Lost Club.

https://www.facebook.com/DieMasonDieMusic

Wednesday, July 31, 2013

Jesse Woods- "Lazerburn"

I've been long anticipating the upcoming debut LP, Get Your Burdens Liftedfrom Austin's own Jesse Woods. I first spoke of his music back in December sometime (read here) when he unveiled a song called, "Danger In the Dancehall" that was supposed to be off his debut. Whatever the delay was in the release I'm not sure, but now comes excellent news that Woods' debut rolls out next week on August 6th. Take a listen to a new track "Lazerburn" below.


https://www.facebook.com/JesseWoodsMusic

Tuesday, July 30, 2013

Local Natives- "Breakers" (Acoustic Live Session)

One of my favorite songs of the year off of one of my favorite albums. Watch Local Natives perform an acoustic version of their track, "Breakers" for the talented folks over at Green Couch Sessions.

http://thelocalnatives.com/

Monday, July 29, 2013

New Video: Gregory Alan Isakov- "Living Proof"

Gregory Alan Isakov recently put out a brilliant new album called, The Weatherman. It features this lovely track, "Living Proof" which he just released a new video for.

http://gregoryalanisakov.com/

Friday, July 19, 2013

Phosphorescent- "Terror In The Canyons (The Wounded Master)" live for Studio Brussel

Phosphorescent's latest disc, Muchacho is one of the finest 2013 has had to offer so far. One of the highlights off the album is the track, "Terror In The Canyons (The Wounded Master") which you can watch be played live on a rooftop in Belgium for the radio station Studio Brussel.

http://phosphorescentmusic.com/

Thursday, July 18, 2013

Dan Croll- "In/Out"

Liverpool native Dan Croll is back with another infectious, hook filled track, this time with his new single, "In/Out." I've spoken in the past about how much I'm into his debut EP, From Nowhere which features both singer/songwriter and electronic elements that keeps his sound unique. If you haven't checked it out yet you really should, and in the meantime add this track to your Summer playlist to get things moving. 

http://www.dancroll.com/

Thursday, July 11, 2013

New Music: David Ramirez- "Stone" (live from Ft. Worth)

Ever since discovering the music of Austin singer/songwriter David Ramirez late last year, he's become a real favorite of mine. Just a few short months ago saw the release of his EP called The Rooster, which features 5 captivating tracks that are not to be missed.
Today Ramirez unveiled a brand new song that he debuted for a live audience in Ft. Worth titled "Stone."

http://davidramirezmusic.com/

Wednesday, July 3, 2013

Gambles- "Far From Your Arms"

Gambles is the project of Matthew Daniel Siskin, who's debut EP Far From Your Arms came out this May. I heard the self-titled track from the EP just the other day and it has just left me floored ever since. It's one of the most raw, beautiful, and powerful things I've come across so far this year.


Gambles- "Far From Your Arms"
Far from your arms
it's taken me
through cities far
they've carried me
on the sound of a heart
barely holding on
you breath my lungs
you keep me strong

Smelled the cities hell
climbed the iron stares
traded clouds for dreams
lost a year at sea
on the sound of man
barely holding on
you breath my lungs
you keep me strong

But we're going down
nowhere I been
in a hollow sound
so hard to live

But through these roads
I move to you
heels dragging slow
but they drag for you
on the sound of a heart
stretched far so wide
you breath my lungs
stand by my side

But we're going down
nowhere I been
in a hollow sound
so hard to live

I'm an honest man
no harm to give
and on my blood
I will come home again

Far from your arms
it's taken me
through cities far
they've carried me
on the sound of a heart
barely holding on
you breath my lungs
you keep me strong

But we're going down
nowhere I been
in a hollow sound
so hard to live

I'm an honest man
no harm to give
and on my blood
I will come home again

more at https://www.facebook.com/iamgambles

Friday, June 28, 2013

Mother Falcon- "Dirty Summer"

I discovered this 18 piece ensemble out of Austin, Tx. a few weeks back and I'm absolutely hooked. They have a new album titled You Knew in stores now, and it features this infectious & joyous track called, "Dirty Summer." Watch the band playing a killer live version of the song below for the good folks over at 'Subway Tracks' in NYC.
Speaking of NY, the band is currently in the Big Apple doing a month long June residency before moving things over  to L.A. for the month of August. Check their website HERE for all the details.



https://www.facebook.com/motherfalconmusic

Tuesday, June 25, 2013

Get to Know: Foy Vance- "Janey"

Irish singer-songwriter Foy Vance recently signed on board with Glassnote Records, who will be releasing his new record, Joy of Nothing this August. It features this stunning track, "Janey" which you can catch below.
Here's a little about Vance via Glassnote's website: "Foy Vance hails from the seaside town of Bangor in Northern Ireland. As a child, Foy relocated with his father, a preacher, to the American Midwest settling in Oklahoma. With his father, Foy travelled the American South, widening his horizons and absorbing the rich musical traditions he was exposed to.  Returning to Ireland some years later, Foy began writing his own music, deeply shaped by the sounds of his youth."



http://www.foyvance.com/

Friday, June 21, 2013

New Video: Daughter- "Youth"

 UK trio Daughter unveiled  brand new video for the track, "Youth" taken from their debut disc, If You Leave. One of the best of 2013 so far.


http://www.ohdaughter.com/

Thursday, June 20, 2013

Chvrches Live on Jimmy Fallon 6/19/13

Scottish band Chvrches stopped by Late Night with Jimmy Fallon last night to make their U.S. television debut, playing the track, "The Mother We Share." In other news from the group, they recently unveiled a brand new single, "Gun" which will appear on their debut full length The Bones Of What You Believe which comes out this Sept. 24th in N. America.



http://chvrches.tumblr.com/

Volcano Choir- "Byegone"

The Bon Iver led project Volcano Choir released the first taste of their upcoming sophomore release Repave, with the soaring first single called "Byegone." It's hits stores this Sept. 3rd via Jagjaguwar.

http://volcanochoir.com

Tuesday, June 11, 2013

Rodeo Queen- "It's Not All That Serious"

Last month I told you about the excellent new project out of Houston, Texas called Rodeo Queen, and his upcoming full length debut he had in the works. That debut LP, Goodness Gracious is out today, and just last week he unveiled a third new song off the album titled, "It's Not All That Serious" which is a beautiful slow burner featuring slide guitar and piano.
Listen to it below and pick up the album, Goodness Gracious which is available now on his bandcamp or at rodeoqueenmusic.com/.


http://rodeoqueenmusic.com/

The National play 'NPR Tiny Desk Concert'

I've been about all things The National ever since their latest disc dropped, Trouble Will Find Me. The band has been on a bit of a whirlwind promoting with TV appearances (Letterman, Fallon & Colbert) and surprise shows in support of their latest effort. Just recently they fit in a stop at the NPR offices to play a stripped down 'Tiny Desk Concert' which featured four songs off of Trouble Will Find Me including, "This is The Last Time" "I Need My Girl" "Pink Rabbits" and "Sea of Love."


http://www.americanmary.com/

Monday, June 10, 2013

Get to Know: Vance Joy-"Riptide"

Vance Joy is a talented young musician hailing from Australia, who was said to have cut his teeth playing Melbourne’s open mic circuit. His debut EP, God Loves You When You’re Dancing came out out internationally, and since then he's landed opening slots touring with Of Monsters & Men and fellow Aussie, Julia Stone, along with appearances at SXSW. Unfortunately the EP isn't in stores here in the U.S. as of yet, but you can pick up his single "Riptide" which came out on iTunes a few weeks back along with another track, "From Afar."

http://www.vancejoy.com/

Friday, June 7, 2013

Volcano Choir announce 'Repave'

While you patiently wait for a new Bon Iver album, Justin Vernon has been keeping plenty busy with side projects of late. His latest, Volcano Choir announced plans for their second LP titled, Repave. It comes out this Sept. 3rd and they released this album teaser below that sounds pretty damn amazing. 

TOUR SCHEDULE:
09/06 – Chicago, IL @ Metro
09/07 – Indianapolis, IN @ Vogue
09/08 – Toronto, Ontario @ Phoenix
09/09 – Burlington, VT @ Higher Ground
09/11 – Boston, MA @ Paradise
09/12 – Washington, DC @ 9:30 Club
09/14 – New York, NY @ Webster Hall
09/27 – Madison, WI @ Orpheum Theater
09/28 – Milwaukee, WI @ Past Theater
10/18 – Minneapolis, MN v First Ave.

 http://volcanochoir.com/

Thursday, May 23, 2013

New Video: Frightened Rabbit- "Late March, Death March"

Frightened Rabbit just released a new video for the song "Late March, Death March" off their latest LP, Pedestrian Verse. The video follows the band across a recent tour in Australia with various live footage. Speaking of touring the Rabbits will also be playing at a number of festivals this summer including Glastonbury, with dates in support of The National back in the US also on deck.

 
http://frightenedrabbit.com/

Wednesday, May 22, 2013

Field Report (Folkadelphia Session) features 2 New Songs

In case you forgot how great the 2012 debut album from Field Report was, this recent set the band played for Philly station WXPN's 'Folkadelphia sessions' is here to remind you. It features two tracks from that aforementioned debut along with two new songs I've yet to hear.

http://www.field-report.org/

Tuesday, May 21, 2013

The National- "Don't Swallow The Cap" Live on Letterman

It's a big week for the guys in The National. Not only does their brand new album, Trouble Will Find Me hit stores today, but last night they made an appearance on the Late Show w/ David Letterman where they played this magnificent version of "Don't Swallow the Cap" with an accompanying string section.
Fans can also catch the band appearing on The Colbert Report this Wednesday.

http://www.americanmary.com/

Monday, May 20, 2013

The Bony King of Nowhere- "On My Way Home" + N. America Tour


An old blog favorite from my days living in Belgium, The Bony King of Nowhere is embarking on a short North American tour starting tomorrow. It's a rare appearance across the Atlantic, so if you're on the West coast or in Canada you should really try to check him out. Take a watch of this beautiful live session of "On My Way Home" he played for the folks at Bruxellesmabelle.


Upcoming Tour Schedule: 
May 21 CoHo , Stanford, CA
May 23 Amnesia, San Francisco, CA w/ Upside Drown
May 29 sam bond's garage , Eugene, OR w/ Laura Cortese
June 2 The Alberta Rose Theatre , Portland, OR w/ The Americans
June 6 Columbia City Theater , Seattle WA w/ Pocket Panda and Thousands
June 11 Melodies in Mind radio session w/ Ryan Fletcher, Vancouver, CA
NADA
June 20 Le Sous-Bois, Chicoutimi, CANADA
June 21 La Petite Boite Noire, Sherbrooke, CANADA
June 22 Le Bal du Lézard, Québec, CANADA
June 25 Le Quai des Brumes, Montréal, CANADA


http://thebonykingofnowhere.be/ 
http://www.bruxellesmabelle.net/

Friday, May 17, 2013

Valerie June- "Wanna Be on Your Mind"

Late last year I talked about Valerie June and how she was readying her debut full length. There's good news and bad news on that front, as said debut, Pushin' Against a Stone is available now in the U.K. and Europe, the bad news being that it doesn't come out here in the U.S until late Summer. In the meantime her LP is being well received overseas and she has a slate of Festival dates over the Summer that should bring her talents to the masses. I would bet that by the time her debut drops here stateside that you'll be hearing a lot more about Ms. June.

Pushin' Against a Stone comes out in the U.S. on August 13th. 

http://www.valeriejune.com/

Wednesday, May 15, 2013

Song of the Week: The National- "Heavenfaced"


With the release of The National's new album, Trouble Will Find Me just around the corner, I've been like a kid waiting for Christmas morning to come. Luckily the album has been streaming this week over on iTunes so that can hold me over momentarily. After many many listens it's too early for me to say if it's my favorite LP from the band, but I do know that it clearly surpassed the high expectations I had already set out in my head. One of the standouts for me has been the hypnotic and slow building, "Heavenfaced." I've always been taken with frontman Matt Berninger's lyrics but this album he seems to be on a whole other level.


The National- "Heavenfaced"
I could walk out, but I won’t,
In my mind I am in your arms.
I wish someone would take my place,
Can’t face heaven all heavenfaced.
No one’s careful all the time,
If you lose me, I’m gonna die.

How completely high was I?
I was off by a thousand miles.
Hit the ceiling, then you fall,
Things are tougher than we are.
I could walk out, but I won’t,
In my mind I am in your arms.
I wish someone would take my place,
Can’t face heaven all heavenfaced.

Let’s go wait out in the fields with the ones we love.
Let’s go wait out in the fields with the ones we love.
Let’s go wait out in the fields with the ones we love.
Let’s go wait out in the fields with the ones we love.

She’s a griever, my believer
It’s not a fever, it’s a freezer
I believe her, I`m a griever now
She’s a griever, my believer
It’s not a fever, it’s a freezer
I believe her, I`m a griever now

Because we’ll all arrive in heaven alive
We’ll all arrive
Because we’ll all arrive in heaven alive
We’ll all arrive

Tuesday, May 14, 2013

Get to Know: Rodeo Queen- "Later Bedrooms"

Rodeo Queen hails from a small town in east Texas with a population of 5,000, growing up with guns, horses, and a knack for mischief. After a stay in Hollywood he is now calling Houston his home base, where he just finished up recording his debut album, Goodness Gracious. He debuted the first song off the forthcoming disc last week, with the track "Later Bedrooms." You can grab it for free over on his bandcamp page now. Can't wait to hear more off of this one.


http://rodeoqueenmusic.com/

Monday, May 13, 2013

New Video: David Ramirez "The Bad Days"

David Ramirez's The Rooster EP came out just last week, and from top to bottom it's probably the best EP my ears have heard this year. He just released a new video for the track, "The Bad Days" which you can watch below. Here's what he told American Songwriter about the song ... “The Bad Days” is an acknowledgement that love itself isn’t enough. There will be days we can’t stand one another but it takes work and effort if we intend to see our love through."


http://davidramirezmusic.com/

Friday, May 10, 2013

Frightened Rabbit cover Best Coast's- "The Only Place"

At a recent tour stop down under, Frightened Rabbit stopped by the Australian radio station Triple J to partake in their 'Like A Version' series. The band chose to tackle Best Coast's "The Only Place" along with an acoustic version of their own track, "The Woodpile" off their latest disc, Pedestrian Verse. Watch them both below.



http://frightenedrabbit.com/

Thursday, May 9, 2013

Rogue Wave- "Siren's Song"

After a 3 year hiatus Rogue Wave are back with a brand new album, Nightingale Floors. It's available June 4th via Vagrant records and you can listen to the latest track to leak, "Siren's Song" which has been on steady repeat for me this week. 


http://roguewavemusic.com/

New Video: The National- "Sea of Love"

I've been counting down the days to The National's newest release, Trouble Will Find Me,  which gets a May 21st release date via 4AD. Holding me over are days like this when the Brooklyn band unveiled a new video for the album track “Sea of Love.” According to the group the video is an homage to their favorite punk rock band, Zvuki Mu from Russia, who's video for their song “Grubiy Zakat,” is a mirror image.Watch The National's take below.

 http://www.americanmary.com/

Wednesday, May 8, 2013

Song of the Week: Gregory Alan Isakov- "Saint Valentine"

Boulder, Colorado's Gregory Alan Isakov is readying his third full length album, The Weatherman. He recently gave fans a first taste of the upcoming LP with a new song titled "Saint Valentine."
Isakov had this to say about his forthcoming release ... "I wanted to make something that felt genuine. We recorded everything with analogue gear and mixed it on tape, which gave the songs a raw and vulnerable feeling." ... "The idea of a weatherman is really powerful. There's this guy on television or on the radio telling us the future, and nobody cares. It's this daily mundane miracle, and I think the songs I chose are about noticing the beauty in normal, everyday life."
The Weatherman hits store shelves this July 9th, and be sure to check his website for the latest tour information HERE.

Local Natives- "Bowery" (live video)

Another phenomenal track from Local Natives off their latest LP, Hummingbird. Here's the song "Bowery" performed in Minneapolis with a group of ballet dancers giving their interpretation of the song while the band plays live.


http://www.thelocalnatives.com/

Friday, May 3, 2013

Stream David Ramirez's New EP 'The Rooster'


Austin musician David Ramirez has become a big favorite of mine over the last six months or so, starting with his epic 2012 full length Apologies. Also over the last several months Ramirez has been teasing tracks from a brand new 5 song EP titled 'The Rooster', and everything I've heard so far has had me counting down the days to it's May 6th release date. Fortunately for those impatient like myself you don't have to wait until next Mon. to hear the whole EP, as Ramirez is sharing it over at American Songwriter. Here's a little bit of what he had to say about his latest work....

Via American Songwriter-(click HERE for the full article)

In September of last year I released a full length album titled Apologies. It was a very “heart on the sleeve” journey through some of my regrets and remorse. I’ve healed since then in a lot of ways and I have an itch to discuss it. A Rooster, as we know, introduces the dawn. It’s an opportunity for us to try again; to be new.
Although I’m now writing more about love, this isn’t an upbeat pop record. I’m still carrying my low-tempo melancholy self through these beautiful new moments. “Fire of Time” is a confession of who I’ve become but resolves with being reminded who I was and who I can be. “The Bad Days” is an acknowledgement that love itself isn’t enough. There will be days we can’t stand one another but it takes work and effort if we intend to see our love through. “Glory” is a beautiful lullaby. Sweet, simple, and lovely. I revisit some old themes in “Don’t Call Me Cryin,” and “The Forgiven” is entirely new ground for me where I discuss my observations in the relationship between an audience and their artists.


http://davidramirezmusic.com/

Monday, April 29, 2013

The National Premiere 2 More New Tracks, "Sea of Love" and "I Need My Girl" on Fallon

Last Thursday night The National appeared on Late Night with Jimmy Fallon where they premiered two more new songs off their upcoming album, Trouble Will Find Me. Watch them play new tracks, "Sea of Love" and "I Need My Girl." 
Trouble Will Find Me comes out on May 21st and is available for pre-order now.



http://www.americanmary.com/

Friday, April 26, 2013

Get to Know: Sohn- "Bloodflows"

Vienna via London musician, Sohn recently signed on board with the good folks over at 4AD. Following the release of his The Wheel EP which came out last year, a haunting new track "Bloodflows" has been unveiled & it will be the first official release on the new label.
According to 4AD Sohn is working on his debut album now, but in the meantime "Bloodflows" will be made available in June both as a 12" and as a digital download.   


http://sohnmusic.com/

Thursday, April 25, 2013

Song of the Week: Little Green Cars- "The John Wayne"

I've been admittedly slow coming around on the Irish 5 piece, Little Green Cars. I had heard their name mentioned quite a bit around SXSW but never took the time to check them out. Since getting my hands on their debut disc, Absolute Zero I'm now feeling like a fool because it's all sorts of awesome. Check out the lead single, "The John Wayne" below and grab their album which is out now via Glassnote (Daughter, Chvrches, Phoenix).


http://littlegreencars.co.uk/