aquarium drunkard

We Have Moved, Please Update Links

2007-02-03T15:13:00.000-08:00

That's right, we are moving to our new wordpress powered home at: www.aquariumdrunkard.com so please update your bookmarks accordingly

Purity Rings

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Big thanks to Sean at Spark Web Solutions for his expertise and patience.

See ya there - A.D.
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Arab Strap :: Ten Years Of Tears

2007-02-02T16:26:00.000-08:00

The only bad thing about Scotland's Arab Strap's new release, Ten Years Of Tears, is that it is also the duo's last release. Brutal realists to a fault, Arab Strap never pulled any punches documenting the often depressingly humorous affair that is life, pints love...and more pints.

A retrospective of sorts following Aidan Moffat and Malcolm Middleton's career from their mid '90s beginnings up until 2006, Ten Years Of Tears gathers new studio tracks, live tracks, deep album cuts and alternate versions. The set makes for a nice starter pack for those interested in the 'Strap who are looking for a little bit of everything they had to offer...sloppy, yes, drunken, yes, but in that charmingly haphazard kind of way. Don't expect any kind of "flow" to this one, but for existing fans this is very nice going away present.

DOWNLOAD:
MP3: Arab Strap :: The First Big Weekend
MP3: Arab Strap :: The Girl I Loved Before I Fucked
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Amazon: Arab Strap - Ten Years Of Tears
www.arabstrap.co.uk ++ www.myspace.com/arabstrapmusic

+ Arab Strap available through eMusic's 25 Free MP3 trial offer.
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+ Visit The Hype Machine for additional Arab Strap MP3s.

Allen Toussaint :: On Your Way Down

2007-02-02T00:21:00.000-08:00

In continuuing with the sporadic New Orleans posts until Fat Tuesday here is the fourth installment in the series; the music of one Mr. Allen Toussaint. Like many fans I originally became acquainted with Toussaint's music in the late '90s through his production work with The Meters, Dr. John and the Nevilles. Upon further investigation it was no surprise Toussaint is super fly funky in his own right. Just listen.

Two of the songs below can be found on Toussaint's 1972 album, Life, Love And Faith, while "From A Whisper To A Scream" is off of his album of the same name. "Whisper" is also happens to be one of my favorite soul songs ever recorded -- the lyrics, mood and production make you believe the man's every word. I saw Toussaint live last July in the French Quarter with Elvis Costello -- you can read about that here.

Elsewhere: The class act that is the Home of The Groove blog has been profiling rare Toussaint tracks and covers the past month. Go dig 'em up,

+ James Booker: Live Montreux July 9 1978
+ Professor Longhair :: NOLA Piano Master
+ The Meters: Live-Showboat Lounge 1977

DOWNLOAD:
MP3: Allen Toussaint :: On Your Way Down
MP3: Allen Toussaint :: Soul Sister
MP3: Allen Toussaint :: From A Whisper To A Scream
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Amazon: Allen Toussaint - Life, Love And Faith
Amazon: Allen Toussaint - From A Whisper To A Scream

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+ Visit The Hype Machine for additional Allen Toussaint MP3s.

The Broken West :: Exclusive Acoustic

2007-02-01T00:30:00.000-08:00

The Broken West stopped by the Little Radio loft studios yesterday for good conversation and an acoustic set on the Aquarium Drunkard Show. Ross, Dan, and Brian guest DJ'd, talked up their new album out now on Merge records, the upcoming national tour beginning Monday, Big Star and the super-cool Dwight Twilley.

Below are the three tunes the guys worked up on their acoustics that can be found on I Can't Go On I'll Go On plus a nice cover of Guided By Voices "Game of Pricks." Look for them the next 8 months in a city near you.

DOWNLOAD:
MP3: The Broken West :: You Can Build An Island
MP3: The Broken West :: Down In The Valley
MP3: The Broken West :: Shiftee
MP3: The Broken West :: Game of Pricks (GBV cover)
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Amazon: The Broken West - I Can't Go On I'll Go On
www.thebrokenwest.com ++ www.myspace.com/thebrokenwest

+ The Broken West available through eMusic's 25 Free MP3 offer.
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+ Visit The Hype Machine for additional Broken West MP3s.

Gruff Rhys :: Candylion

2007-01-30T08:50:00.000-08:00

Last Friday night, to and from the Of Montreal show, Zapp Brannigan's automobile was filled with the sounds of Gruff Rhys latest, and second solo album, Candylion. Have you listened to this yet? Neither had I, but it is completely worthwhile -- I might go as far as say essential for brit-pop fans. Between this and the new The Good The Bad And The Queen I am in an Anglophile's heaven. For all you Super Furry Animals fans this one is a no brainer -- for everyone else I suppose the most mainstream comparison would be: think a laid back Damon Albarn solo project had he not become enamored with afro-beat and hip-hop. Ah hell, just listen to the mp3 samples below.

By the way, in 2005 I didn't bother picking up SFA leader Gruff Rhys initial solo album Yr Atal Genhedlaeth as, A) I had read its delivery is completely sung in Welsh, and more importantly , B) it had received mixed reviews. But now, after devouring Candylion the past few days, I may have to seriously re-investigate. Chime in -- great, good, fair, poor??

Elsewhere: Watch the video for Gruff RhysCandylion

DOWNLOAD:
MP3: Gruff Rhys :: Candylion
MP3: Gruff Rhys :: Lonesome Words
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Amazon: Gruff Rhys - Candylion (import)
www.gruffrhys.com +++ myspace

+ Gruff Rhys available through eMusic's 25 Free MP3 trial offer.
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+ Visit The Hype Machine for additional Gruff Rhys MP3s.

M. Ward w/ Jim James :: Magic Trick (alt)

2007-01-30T00:00:00.000-08:00

This track is brought to you courtesy of So Much Silence for taking the time to rip the audio from vinyl to mp3 format. Thank you, sir. The vinyl I received is a limited edition 7″ via Fader so unless your one of the lucky 500 who received a copy of the limited pressing I wanted to make sure you got a hold of this track digitally. For those interested, the b-side is the Ladyhawk tune "Soap."

The M. Ward A side, "Magic Trick," with My Morning Jacket's Jim James supplying guest vocals is an alternate version from Ward's Post-War album with an even further understated production element. Perfect for all y'all completists out there.

DOWNLOAD:
MP3: M. Ward w/ Jim James :: Magic Trick (alt version)
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+ M. Ward available through eMusic's 25 Free MP3 offer.
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+ Visit The Hype Machine for additional M. Ward MP3s.

Aquarium Drunkard Presents :: Submarines

2007-01-29T00:17:00.000-08:00

Tonight we're presenting the final night of the Submarine's month-long residency at the Echo. Come on on out -- don't cost nuthin'. 10pm/FREE/ 21+ address: 1822 sunset blvd.

DOWNLOAD:
MP3: Blake Hazard :: Darkest Things (live on aquarium drunkard show)
MP3: Blake Hazard :: Brighter Discontent (live on aquarium drunkard show)
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Amazon: The Submarines - Declare A New State
www.thesubmarines.com ++ www.myspace.com/thesubmarinesmusic

+ Submarines available through eMusic's 25 Free MP3 trial offer.
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+ Visit The Hype Machine for additional Submarines MP3s.

Jesse Sykes And The Sweet Hereafter

2007-01-29T00:00:00.000-08:00

A few years ago a friend of mine returned from a business trip to Seattle with tales of former Whiskeytown guitarist Phil Wandscher's latest project. This turned out to be working with Jesse Sykes in their newly minted band The Sweet Hereafter. He also came back with a copy of their, as of then, just released debut LP Reckless Burning. I was practically sold on sight by the album's noir-ish cover art. Thankfully the album's contents, all downer country soundscapes, were just as rewarding as the haunting visual promised.

I admittedly lost track a bit after the band's last release, 2004's excellent Oh, My Girl, so I was both surprised and excited to receive a press copy of the new album from the band's label Barsuk. Once again the mix of Cowboy Junkies-styled, smoky dirges crossed with Wandscher's raw Faithless Street era playing make for another solid listen.

Stream the album: here

DOWNLOAD:
MP3: Jesse Sykes And The Sweet Hereafter :: Station Grey
MP3: Jesse Sykes And The Sweet Hereafter :: LLL
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AmpCamp: Jesse Sykes - Like, Love, Lust & ... (pre-sale)
www.jessesykes.com ++ jesse's myspace
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+ Visit The Hype Machine for additional Jesse Sykes MP3s.

Of Montreal :: El Rey, Los Angeles 1.26.07

2007-01-27T19:20:00.000-08:00

It's raining like a sum bitch out there tonight, and I'm about out the door with a big umbrella , but before I head out for the night I want to encourage anyone with even a faint interest in Of Montreal to make a point to go see them on this present tour. Last night they brought the synth-psych-funk at the El Rey despite some sound issues the first few tunes. Oh, and they also covered Neil Young's "Harvest Moon" which left many in the audience scratching their heads..ha, kids.

The below live track is Of Montreal covering Bowie's "Moonage Daydream" last week in Texas. Thanks, Matt, for originally posting this. Of Montreal is playing Los Angeles again tonight and tomorrow night at the Avalon and Troubadour respectively. Check their website for furter tour information.

DOWNLOAD:
MP3: Of Montreal :: Moonage Daydream (Bowie cover)
MP3: Of Montreal :: A Sentence Of Sorts In Kongsvinger

Update: Get the entire show from San Antone here at Funeral Pudding
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AmpCamp: Of Montreal - Hissing Fauna Are You the Destroyer
++www.ofmontreal.net ++ www.myspace.com/ofmontreal

+ Of Montreal available through eMusic's 25 Free MP3 trial offer.
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+ Visit The Hype Machine for additional Of Montreal MP3s.

Submarines Live @ Aquarium Drunkard Show

2007-01-25T07:13:00.000-08:00

Blake Hazard, one half of L.A.'s songwriting pop duo The Submarines, stopped by the show yesterday and played a couple of tunes for us on the acoustic before doing an eclectic guest DJ set. Not only can the girl can sing, but she can spin some sides. Below are two tracks from Blake's acoustic performance.

Also: If you're in the L.A. area An Aquarium Drunkard presents The Submarines show this coming Monday at The Echo. Come on out as this will be the final night of the Subs month-long residency at the club.

DOWNLOAD:
MP3: Blake Hazard :: Darkest Things (live on aquarium drunkard show)
MP3: Blake Hazard :: Brighter Discontent (live on aquarium drunkard show)
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Amazon: The Submarines - Declare A New State
www.thesubmarines.com ++ www.myspace.com/thesubmarinesmusic

+ Submarines available through eMusic's 25 Free MP3 trial offer.
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+ Visit The Hype Machine for additional Submarines MP3s.

Catherine Howe :: What a Beautiful Place

2007-01-24T16:25:00.000-08:00

Are you down with the Numero Group? If not, get hip, as they are just one of the many, many great labels that have sprung up the past few years specializing in obscure reissues and deep-crate compilations. I spent much of 2006 exploring these label's vast and eclectic catalogs.

Numero Group's latest project is a remastered reissue of '70s English folkie Catherine Howe's debut album What a Beautiful Place. I think they nail it in their description of the the album lauding it as "a pastoral blend of English countryside folk and London orchestral pop, not unlike Bryter Layter or North Star Grassman And The Ravens."

The pastoral folk coming out of Albion at the time all shares that somewhat spooky and ancient vibe that appears on so many of the albums of the era (see Burt Jansch, Nick Drake, Sandy Denny, etc).

DOWNLOAD:
MP3: Catherine Howe :: It's Not Likely
MP3: Catherine Howe :: In The Hot Summer
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Purchase: Catherine Howe - What a Beautiful Place
www.catherinehowe.co.uk/ ++ www.numerogroup.com

Sloan :: Never Hear the End of It

2007-01-24T00:06:00.000-08:00

My exposure to Nova Scotia's power-pop outfit Sloan was a reverse and catch-up affair as they have steadily flown below the radar in the U.S. -- even in "indie" terms. Perhaps the flood the past four years of Canadian artists is what finally made myself (and other holdouts) take notice.

Now being released (stateside) on NC's Yep Roc label, Sloan return with Never Hear the End of It -- a 76 minute, 30 song affair. Before placing the disc in the changer, at 30 songs, I wondered if the album's title was the tell-tale sign of things to come; i.e. a never-ending, droning disc. Thankfully it is for the most part an entirely engaging album. With four distinct songwriters in the band the album flows like a consistent pop nugget juggling varied elements depending on the song(writer). RIYL: Power Pop

DOWNLOAD:
MP3: Sloan :: Who Taught You To Live Like That?
MP3: Sloan :: Can't You Figure It Out?
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Amazon: Sloan - Never Hear the End of It
www.sloanmusic.com ++ www.myspace.com/sloan

+ Sloan available through eMusic's 25 Free MP3 trial offer.
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+ Visit The Hype Machine for additional Sloan MP3s.

The Shins :: Wincing the Night Away

2007-01-23T00:20:00.000-08:00

Without a doubt The Shins Wincing the Night Away was the leak of 2006 -- and for good reason.

Mercer and company have done it again, and I must agree with the early reviewers who noted that Wincing moves the band into a more "mature" realm of songwriting and sonic experimentation. And thankfully this is painlessly and eloquently executed.

While Chutes Too Narrow clearly occupied a different aural territory than Oh Inverted World, much of Wincing takes this a step farther eschewing the band's signature whimsy without sacrificing its familiar identity. Different yes, yet remaining a Shins album. Orchestration and electronic beats may have taken the place of passages formerly reserved for a syncopated guitar strum, but the feel and atmosphere remain the same. Listen to Mercer's excellent, spot-on Morrissey vocal affectation below on "Sea Legs." Outstanding.

Wincing the Night Away see wide release today and comes highly, highly recommended.

DOWNLOAD:
MP3: The Shins :: Sea Legs
MP3: The Shins :: Phantom Limb

Video: The Shins - Phantom Limb
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Amazon: The Shins - Wincing the Night Away
www.theshins.com +++ www.myspace.com/theshins
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+ Visit The Hype Machine for additional Shins MP3s.

Hissing Fauna Are You the Destroyer

2007-01-23T00:19:00.000-08:00

This is not your older brother’s Of Montreal.

After one listen to the group’s latest, Hissing Fauna Are You The Destroyer, fans of Of Montreal prior to 2004’s Satanic Panic In The Attic will be shocked to learn this is the same outfit that produced the expansively twee, carnival-esque albums The Gay Parade, and Cherry Peel. The degree in separation in both sound and atmosphere could not be more decidedly different.

Having toiled in what Of Montreal’s leader and chief songwriter, Kevin Barnes, has described as the “indie ghetto” for nearly ten years, Barnes took the reins of the group in 2004 ending an era of Elephant 6 styled mass group collaboration. Having complete creative control in terms of songwriting, sound and production what emerged was the beat heavy, electropop-synth watershed Satanic Panic In The Attic. 2005 saw Barnes further chase his new muse on The Sunlandic Twins mining varied genres until ultimately spinning them into one of his own.

Part three of Barnes’ creative trilogy Hissing Fauna is the logical next step in terms of sound, but with an added layer of personalization and introspection not so readily and immediately available on prior efforts. When he emotes on the track “A Sentence Of Sorts In Kongsvinger,” “I spent the winter on the verge of a total breakdown while living in Norway” backed by the incredibly poppy and upbeat instrumentation it’s as if you wonder whether to laugh or cry with him. Such is the duality of Hissing Fauna. Fifty plus minutes of clever, clever pop saturated in what sounds like a man on the brink of a nervous breakdown. It also may very well be Of Montreal’s best work yet.

Here are seveteen seconds from Of Montreal's "Gronlandic Edit," one of my favorite musical moments of 2007 thus far. Of Montreal's Hissing Fauna drops today....
Snippet (mp3): Gronlandic Edit

DOWNLOAD:
MP3: Of Montreal :: A Sentence Of Sorts In Kongsvinger
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Amazon: Of Montreal - Hissing Fauna Are You the Destroyer
www.ofmontreal.net ++ www.myspace.com/ofmontreal

+ Of Montreal available through eMusic's 25 Free MP3 trial offer.
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+ Visit The Hype Machine for additional Of Montreal MP3s.

Yer Bird To Release Folk Compilation

2007-01-22T17:21:00.000-08:00

The excellent VA based indie-folk label Yer Bird Records will be releasing it's first compilation this Spring (which looks stellar). News and details below via the label's message board.
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Folk Music for the End of the World

So, all the tracks are officially in - I don't have the track order down yet, but the track listing is:

Paleo - Swimming in Money
Travel By Sea - Too Much Too Quickly
Chris Bathgate - A Flash of Light Followed By
Alina Simone - Gunshots
J. Tillman - Barter Blues
Hayden - Message From London
Allyn Latorre - On the Banks of the River
Chauchat - Smoking Paint
Sarah White - Part of the Story
Hezekiah Jones - Mississippi Sea
The Gunshy - No One Remembers The Drunk
O'Death - Angeline
Elephant Micah - Korean Sunset
Nic Garcia - Torn Up in the Machine
Oweihops - Sad Little Drunks
Matthew Ryan - Gone For Good
The Hotel Ghost - Lay Me Down

The Mooney Suzuki :: Maximum Black EP

2007-01-22T00:00:00.000-08:00

Here is a blast from the recent past. This past fall V2 re-released The Mooney Suzuki's 1999 tour-only Black EP with five extra tracks pulled from the original recording sessions. This is fine, fine neo-garage. Along with the track additions it's nice to finally have a 'hard' copy of this. I'm not sure what happened to these guys with their Sony debut, but you might remember it was less than impressive.

Not to dwell on past mistakes, v2 (the label which, as of this month, ceased to exist) played a smart hand re-releasing the Maximum Black EP reminding the core fan base not only that the band exists, but that they used to rock. The Mooneys were slated to release their next full length album on v2 prior to closing shop.

Elsewhere: Visit Mr. Dodge for an additional track off the Mooney's Maximum Black EP.

DOWNLOAD:
MP3: The Mooney Suzuki :: Half of My Heart
MP3: The Mooney Suzuki :: My Dear Persephone
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Amazon: The Mooney Suzuki :: Maximum Black EP
www.themooneysuzuki.com ++ www.myspace.com/themooneysuzuki

+ The Mooney Suzuki available through eMusic's 25 Free MP3 offer.
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+ Visit The Hype Machine for additional Mooney Suzuki MP3s.

Elvis Perkins :: Ash Wednesday

2007-01-20T17:15:00.000-08:00

Kevin from So Much Silence turned me on to Elvis Perkins during his last trip to L.A. Thank you, sir. After reading a brief bio of Perkins, it's easy to see where he is coming from in terms of his lyrical content. The man has been through a lot. Perkins album Ash Wednesday sees wide release February 20th -- here is a little preview.

DOWNLOAD:
MP3: Elvis Perkins :: Ash Wednesday
MP3: Elvis Perkins :: May Day
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Amazon: Elvis Perkins :: Ash Wednesday
www.elvisperkins.net +++ www.myspace.com/elvisperkins

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+ Visit The Hype Machine for additional Elvis Perkins MP3s.

Lee Hazelwood :: Saccharine Underground

2007-01-20T08:01:00.000-08:00

Yesterday Stereogum posted a track off the upcoming Lee Hazelwood album Cake or Death. More importantly, for me, they shed the sad news of Lee Hazelwood's reported diagnosis of terminal renal cancer. My fandom, while only a few years old, runs deep. The man is an icon.

Founder of the so-called 'Saccharine Underground,' Lee's contribution to the cowboy -psych movement is undeniable. A pioneer in sound, production and the re-defining of what a duet could be, the man truly made waves. As if his own body of work is not evidence enough, have a look at the stable of artists who have covered his canon over the years, e.g Total Lee! The Songs of Lee Hazlewood featuring Jarvis Cocker, Lambchop , Erlend Oye, Richard Hawley, and Calexico among others. Hell, just this past week I posted Dean and Britta's cover of Lee Hazelwood's duet with Ann-Margret "You Turned My Head Around" off their upcoming album Back Numbers.

Below is Lee and Nancy Sinatra's signature duet "Some Velvet Morning" along with their "I've Been Down So Long." Also: two tracks culled from the 2002 Total Lee! The Songs of Lee Hazlewood compilation. Hazelwood's wry lyrics on "I'm Glad I Never" could not be better suited for Lambchop's Kurt Wagner.

DOWNLOAD:
MP3: Lee Hazelwood & Nancy Sinatra :: Some Velvet Morning
MP3: Lee Hazelwood & Nancy Sinatra :: I've Been Down So Long
MP4: Lambchop :: I'm Glad I Never (via sendspace)
MP4: Jarvis Cocker and Richard Hawley :: The Cheat (via sendspace)
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Amazon: Lee Hazelwood - Cake or Death (released January 23rd)

Amazon: Total Lee! The Songs of Lee Hazlewood
++ www.myspace.com/leehazlewood ++ unofficial site

+ Lee Hazelwood available through eMusic's 25 Free MP3 trial offer.
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+ Visit The Hype Machine for additional Lee Hazelwood MP3s.

Now Podcasting :: Episode 22

2007-01-20T00:23:00.000-08:00

First off: The A.D. podcast has been up since last spring and has grown to attract about 1,800 listeners each week. BUT, I do have a problem. I am hoping one of you may have a solution to and/or advice. I made a rookie mistake last April submitting my feed to iTunes podcast service when I only had one 30 minute show up (apparently they reject 'casts without at least several shows). It was denied and now I cannot re-submit the same feed twice. I have not been able to reach anyone with iTunes to explain the situation as I would love to have the podcast listed with them. Anybody got a clue as to what I can do here? Thanks. -- A.D.
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Welcome to Episode 22 of the podcast edition of The Aquarium Drunkard Show; airing live every Wednesday 2-4 p.m. PST at the Little Radio studios in downtown L.A. As requested, below is the tracklisting order for this week's podcast.
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DJ Shadow - Best Foot Forward ++ Darondo – Let My People Go ++ Sister Nancy - Bam Bam ++ The Meters – A Message From The Meters ++ Shuggie Otis – Inspiration Information ++ Moses Dillard - Tribute To Wes ++ Digable Planets – Black Ego ++ A Tribe Called Quest – Electric Relaxation ++ The Clash - The Guns of Brixton ++ Elvis Costello – This Years Girl ++ The Broken West – On The Bubble ++ The Greenehorns – Shelter of Your Arms ++ Spaceman 3 – Come Down Easy (demo) ++ Yo La Tengo – Decora ++ David Vandervelde –Nothin’ No ++ Lou Reed – Vicious ++ Dr. John - I Walk On Gilded Splinters ++ Dogme 95 –Bear Beat II ++ Black Fiction – Magic Hands ++ Neutral Milk Hotel – Ghost ++ Blur – On The Way To The Club ++ Dean And Britta – You Turned My Head Around ++ The Broadway Hush – Tonight You Belong To Me ++ Loudon Wainwright III – Swimming Song
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Subscribe: Add This Feed
MP3 Download/Stream: Episode 22
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Aquarium Drunkard Podcast: Archives Here

Meters :: Live @ The Showboat Lounge 1977

2007-01-19T08:54:00.000-08:00

In contiuuing with the string of New Orleans related posts until Mardi Gras, here is a Meters show from 1977 I posted on last January as part of the original Live Upload Series. Look for another Meters live feature in next few weeks recorded at The Bottomline in the late seventies.
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Nobody..and I mean nobody funked it up like The Meters did in their prime. Shit-hot grooves. I have collected a number of shows from the band's '70s hey-day, and this is one of my favorites. It is culled from a 1977 New Orleans Live radio broadcast complete with a smokey-voiced DJ popping in and out during the duration of the show.

Great banter from the band too. Several times throughout the show Art Neville speaks directly to the greater New Orleans radio audience, telling them to get with it and come on down to the show. The beginning of "People Say" is particularly nasty.

DOWNLOAD:
MP3: The Meters :: Just Kissed My Baby
MP3: The Meters :: Band Banter
MP3: The Meters :: Big Chief
MP3: The Meters :: Stage Banter
MP3: The Meters :: Jungleman
MP3: The Meters :: Ask's For You
MP3: The Meters :: Hey Pocky Way
MP3: The Meters :: People Say
MP3: The Meters :: Ain't No Use -->
MP3: The Meters :: Po' Boy Jam -->
MP3: The Meters :: Ain't No Use
MP3: The Meters :: Feel Da Groove
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www.themetersonline.com ++ www.nola.com ++ www.wwoz.org
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+ Visit The Hype Machine for additional Meters MP3s.

Captain Beefheart :: Safe as Milk

2007-01-18T17:28:00.000-08:00

Captain Beefheart's 1967 debut, Safe as Milk, has had a firm hold on my ears the past couple of weeks -- namely because I just recently replaced my old copy with the remastered version (complete with added bonus tracks). While Trout Mask is it's own fantastic, bizarro ride (note: possible future post) Safe As Milk remains my favorite complete Beefheart work from start to finish. It was also my introduction to the band.

Re-listening to the album in 2007 is an interesting experience in and of itself based solely on the amount of recent indie bands who have clearly co-opted much of the Beefheart sound, style, and aural aesthetic. Granted, I tend to love many of these bands for that very reason.

Beefheart's unrelenting mix of raw garage rock distilled through their rendering of the delta blues sounds like midnight under a full moon in the bayou. This cleaned up version of the album only further punctuates this. Foe those interested, the bonus tracks are outtakes from Mirror Man Sessions.

Video: Watch the band's "Sure 'Nuff 'N Yes I Do" rave up. Damn.

DOWNLOAD:
MP3: Captain Beefheart :: Sure 'Nuff 'N Yes I Do
MP3: Captain Beefheart :: Safe as Milk take 5 (bonus track)
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Amazon: Captain Beefheart - Safe as Milk
www.beefheart.com

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+ Visit The Hype Machine for additional Beefheart MP3s.

The Autumn Defense :: New Album

2007-01-17T18:00:00.000-08:00

I heaped praise on The Autumn Defense 2003 album Circles back in March of last year and have since wondered if/when they would record a proper follow-up. Well they have and it is being released this month by Broadmoor Records.

Still mining the '70s kinks-esque, singer-songwriter landscape they so eloquently articulated on Circles, John Stirratt and Pat Sansone again prove this is no mere Wilco side-project, but a viable entity of its own.

Previously: The Autumn Defense :: Circles

DOWNLOAD:
MP3: The Autumn Defense :: Canyon Arrow
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Amazon: The Autumn Defense - S/T
www.theautumndefense.com ++ www.myspace.com/theautumndefense

+ Autumn Defense album Circles available via eMusic's 25 Free MP3 offer.
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+ Visit The Hype Machine for additional Autumn Defense MP3s.

Gilles Peterson :: Digs America

2007-01-17T00:04:00.000-08:00

For those of you who were curious as to what compilation I was referencing in the Darondo post, the following should clarify a bit. Gilles Peterson is the envy of dj's, collectors and crate diggers around the world. At least in the world of An Aquarium Drunkard he is. The holmes has a collection so dense and thick that it is stored in it's own warehouse (Gilles former home, known as Brownswood). Note: He has also started a label under the moniker Brownswood as well.

As eclectic as he is prolific, Peterson's tastes run across the board touching on funk, dub, r&b, soul, danchall, and hip hop, with a particulary keen ear for interesting world music. His comps are fantasticly eclectic and varied -- and there are many, many of them. Gilles Peterson Digs America: Brownswood U.S.A. finds Peterson mining obscure old, rare and out-of-print soul, r&b, and jazz . Mecca.

Also check out: Gilles Peterson on the BBC Radio

DOWNLOAD:
MP3: Bob Cunningham :: Lover's Theme
MP3: Moses Dillard :: Tribute To Wes
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Amazon: Gilles Peterson Digs America - Brownswood U.S.A.
www.brownswoodrecordings.com

+ Gilles artists available through eMusic's 25 Free MP3 trial offer.
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+ Visit The Hype Machine for additional MP3s.

David Vandervelde :: Moonstation House Band

2007-01-17T00:00:00.000-08:00

Upon listening to David Vandervelde's late 2006 Daytrotter session (dude covered the Stones "cocksucker blues"..i mean, c'mon) I immediately shot an email to his label Secretly Canadian to get the scoop on who this guy was and if/when he had an album in the works. Not only did he have one in the works, he had one in the can all ready to go in 2007. Well, here we are and Vandervelde is set to release his album The Moonstation House Band on January 23rd. Giddy up.

His rock & roll '70s stylings smell like a dirty glam-rock show. Truly. If he was around ten years ago he could have been easily cast in a role in Velvet Goldmine. Oh well, maybe he'll warrant a pt. 2.

Elsewhere:
+ Check out Vandervelde's December Daytrotter session
+ Gorilla vs. Bear has Vandervelde's "Murder In Michigan"

DOWNLOAD:
MP3: David Vandervelde :: Nuthin’ No
MP3: David Vandervelde :: Jacket
MP3: David Vandervelde :: Cocksucker Blues (stones cover via daytrotter.com)
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Amazon: David Vandervelde - The Moonstation House Band
www.davidvandervelde.com +++ www.myspace.com/davidvandervelde ++ www.secretlycanadian.com

+ David Vandervelde available through eMusic's 25 Free MP3 trial offer.
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+ Visit The Hype Machine for additional David Vandervelde MP3s.

Darondo :: Let My People Go

2007-01-16T09:01:00.000-08:00

In 2006 the Luv N' Haight folks released this nine track career spanning co llection of Darondo's music (including three previously unreleased demo tracks) and my ears have never been the same. Once referred to as a street-wise Al Green, Darondo is the real deal. As music gets more and more sterilized through technology and the like - it is shit like Darondo's rawness that brings everything into focus and perspective. I have never cared about genre and recently while prepping for a radio show and queuing up Darondo's "Let My People Go" I was reminded of why. Unbridled Soul. He has it. Link Wray had it. Q Tip has it. Jim James has it. Steve Earle has it. There are no boundaries, nor artifice. Download these two early '70s gems and close your eyes.

Note: Savvy readers may remember "Didn't I" from Gilles Peterson Digs America

DOWNLOAD:
MP3: Darondo :: Let My People Go
MP3: Darondo :: Didn't I
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Amazon: Darondo :: Let My People Go

Update: You can download free via eMusic's 25 Free MP3 offer.

Dean And Britta :: Back Numbers 2.27.07

2007-01-15T00:59:00.000-08:00

Picking up right where 2003's L'Avventura left off, Dean And Britta return with their new full length Back Numbers. As with L'Avventura and their work with Luna, Wareham and Phillips know how to tastefully cover other artists material both staying true to the original and equally giving it a life of its own. This feat is accomplished a couple of times on Back Numbers but no more eloquently than Britta Phillips take on Lee Hazelwood and Ann-Margret's "You Turned My Head Around. "

Produced by Tony Visconti, Back Numbers will be released on February 27th via the Rounder Records Group. Until then -- listen to Britta's interpretation below.

DOWNLOAD:
MP3: Dean And Britta :: You Turned My Head Around
----------
Purchase: Dean And Britta - Back Numbers
+ www.deanandbritta.com ++ www.myspace.com/deanandbritta

+ Dean And Britta available through eMusic's 25 Free MP3 trial offer.
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+ Visit The Hype Machine for additional Dean And Britta MP3s.

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Menomena :: Friend or Foe

As one of the more interesting albums thus far in 2007 -- Menomena's latest Barsuk project -- Friend or Foe -- once again, like their debut I Am The Fun Blame Monster, defies genre convention. While IAMTFBM was melodic and atmospheric with it's charming cut & paste lo-fi beats, Friend or Foe extends their sound into a whole new territory furthering both the songwriting and atmosphere without betraying the fact they took their name from the greatest Muppetts song ever.

Elsewhere: I Guess I'm Floating has Menomena's "Air Aid."

DOWNLOAD:
MP3: Menomena :: Wet And Rusting
----------
Purchase: Menomena - Friend or Foe
www.menomena.com +++ www.myspace.com/menomena ++ www.barsuk.com

+ Menomena available through eMusic's 25 Free MP3 trial offer.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
+ Visit The Hype Machine for additional Menomena MP3s.

PLUG Awards LA :: City Highlights Tour

2007-01-15T00:52:00.000-08:00

First Off: If you have yet to make your way to vote for the nominees in this years PLUG Independent Music Awards -- head on over and cast your vote. And if you're local, grab your tickets ($10) and be there in person at the awards in New York City on February 10th. It's worth the price of admission for Stephen Malkmus' performance alone, let alone the other great artists lined up.

The first annual PLUG LA hit Little Radio Saturday night which also happened to be the coldest night on record for Los Angeles since 1932. Cold weather be damned -- the masses turned out in full for a night of great music. Artists on the bill included: Foreign Born, the Gray Kid, Great Northern, and J. Rocc's Stones Throw "Tribute to J Dilla" DJ Set. Highlights for me were the Foreign Born's end-of-set rave-up cum revival and J. Rocc's unbelievable DJ set. Much respect.

Your own Aquarium Drunkard DJ'd three separate sets in between artists. I had a lot of inquiries as to the tracklist so here it is listed below.

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The Meters - Handclapping Song ++ Detroit Sex Machines - The Stretch [Edit] ++ Carleen & The Groovers - The Thing ++ The Meters - Keep on Marching (Funky Soldier) ++ Jacques Dutronc - On Nous Cache Tout, On Nous Dit Rien ++ A Tribe Called Quest - Electric Relaxation ++ Caetano Veloso - Alfômega ++ Beastie Boys - And Me ++ Beck - Cellphones Dead ++ TV On The Radio - Staring At The Sun ++ Cold Grits - Its Your Thing ++ Lil' Lavair & The Fabulous Jades - Cold Heat ++ The Explosions - Hip Drop ++ A Tribe Called Quest - Secenario ++ Clipse - Ride Around Shining ++ Deltron 30 30 - The Fantabulous Rap Extravaganza Part II***
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www.plugawards.com ++ PLUG LA

Professor Longhair :: NOLA Piano Master

2007-01-14T22:14:00.000-08:00

The James Booker re-post from last week has reinvigorated my interest in my New Orleans funk and soul collection which -- with Mardi Gras in a couple of months -- couldn't have happened at a better time. So consider the Booker post the first in a series of NOLA themed features from now until Fat Tuesday.

Some of you really dug on the Booker sessions at Montruex and requested more information on his style of playing, etc. The short answer is that it all leads back to Roland (Roy) Byrd, better known as Professor Longhair. Dr. John has often been quoted as saying that 'Fess was the true originator of funk and I couldn't agree more. His syncopated left hand kept the beat while his right worked everything else in a style all his own. Straight funky and hotter than a fish fry in July.

For folks just getting into the Fess I always recc the superb two-disc Rhino anthology -- after that taste you'll most definitely move on to other live '70s recordings and deep dish pickins. Three cuts below off Fess: The Professor Longhair Anthology.

Previously: james-booker-live-montreux-july-9-1978

DOWNLOAD:
MP3: Professor Longhair :: Tipitina (Live)
MP3: Professor Longhair :: Big Chief (Live)
MP3: Professor Longhair :: Junco Partner
----------
Amazon: Professor Longhair :: Fess: The Professor Longhair Anthology
www.professorlonghair.com ++ www.nola.com ++ www.wwoz.org

Video: Professor Longhair perfoms "Tipitina." Watch dem fingers move.

+ Professor Longhair available through eMusic's 25 Free MP3 trial offer.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
+ Visit The Hype Machine for additional Professor Longhair MP3s.

Roy Orbison :: Life Fades Away

2007-01-13T10:45:00.000-08:00

I have probably watched the '80s excess-fest that is the film adaptation of Bret Easton Ellis' novel Less Than Zero thirty or so times the past fifteen years. Good lord. In retrospect it's not that it is that a great film, in fact it's a terrible book adaptation, but it is great in it's own self serving way. Anchored by one of Robert Downey Jr.s most gripping (and disturbing) performances the film captures a cinematic snapshot of L.A.'s Reagan-era coke fueled hedonism.

I also owned the soundtrack, on cassette, and remember it being a pretty solid listen. A KISS cover here, an L.L. Cool J jam there, and an inexplicably cool tune penned by....ready...Glenn Danzig - sung by Roy Orbison. I wonder if the two ever met? Most likely the song was provided to Orbison without any formal contact with it's songwriter, but I like to imagine what might have been a truly bizarre meeting.

Previously: Roy Orbison :: In Dreams (Blue Velvet Redux)

DOWNLOAD:
MP3: Roy Orbison :: Life Fades Away
----------
Amazon: Less Than Zero - OST

+ Roy Orbison available through eMusic's 25 Free MP3 offer.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
+ Visit The Hype Machine for additional Roy Orbison MP3s.

Now Podcasting :: Episode 21

2007-01-12T07:03:00.000-08:00

Welcome to Episode 20 of the podcast edition of The Aquarium Drunkard Show; airing live every Wednesday 2-4 p.m. PST at the Little Radio studios in downtown L.A. As requested, below is the tracklisting order for this week's podcast.

Very off-the-cuff show today, kids. An all over the place eclectic wam bam. This show is not unlike the way I was listening to my iPod on the way up the coast to San Francisco last weekend for the Stephen Malkmus show at Bimbos. All - over - the - place.
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Whiskeytown – Midway Park ++ Black Keys – No Fun (Vinyl only) ++ Link Wray – La de Da ++ Old Crowe Medicine Show – Cocaine Habit ++ Taj Mahal – Ajax Piano Rag ++ Beastie Boys – Instant Death ++ Tom Zé - Jimmy, Renda-se ++ Lee Scratch Perry – Smokey Room ++ Ritchie Havens - Here Comes the Sun (Beatles cover) ++ Josh Rouse – Straight To Hell (Clash cover) ++ The Breeders – Title TK ++ Robert Pollard – Love Is Stronger Than Witchcraft +++ Robyn Hitchcock & The Venus 3 – Museum of Sex ++ Amanda Ambrose - (I Ain't Singing) No More Sad Songs ++ Casey Dienel – Cut Your Hair (Pavement cover) ++ Built To Spill – Carry The Zero ++ Badly Drawn Boy – Cause A Rockslide ++ Lou Reed – Vicious ++ Steve Earle – Feelin’ Alright ++ Alejandro Escovedo – Everybody Loves Me ++ Bobby Bare Jr. – Borrow Your Cape ++ Kings of Leon – Taper Jean Girl ++ Lions In The Street – Lady Blue ++ Pink Mountaintops – Can You Do That Dance? ++ Pretenders – Up The Neck ++ The Modern Lovers – Pablo Picasso ++ Lou Reed – Dirty Blvd. ++ Buck Owens – Streets of Bakersfield ++ Harry Nilsson – Everybody’s Talkin’ ++ The Shins – Mine’s Not A High Horse ++ Simon & Garfunel - America ++ 14 Iced Bears - Sure To See ++ Orange Juice - Falling & Laughing ++ R.E.M. - Pretty Persuasion *
------------
Subscribe: Add This Feed
MP3 Download/Stream: Episode 21
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Aquarium Drunkard Podcast: Archives Here

Sparrow House :: Falls EP

2007-01-11T16:11:00.000-08:00

While I have never been a huge follower of Austin's Voxtrot, this six-song EP by keyboardist and guitarist Jared Van Fleet is irresistible. Recording under the nom de plume Sparrow House, Van Fleet works the same hushed muse as many a Drunkard favorite posted on these pages in the past. I have only had this EP in my hands for a number of days, but it has quickly become a favorite. Based on the strength of this effort alone I may need to, ahem, re-visit Voxtrot's catalog.

Elsewhere: Voxtrot/Sparrow House champion Gorilla vs Bear points the way to a video of Van Fleet's solo performance of "When I Am Gone" on Austin's The Almost Late Show.

DOWNLOAD:
MP3: Sparrow House :: When I Am Gone
----------
Purchase: Sparrow House - FALLS EP
www.sparrowhouse.net ++ www.myspace.com/sparrowhouse

+ Voxtrot available through eMusic's 25 Free MP3 trial offer.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
+ Visit The Hype Machine for additional Sparrow House MP3s.

Grinderman :: Get It On

2007-01-11T11:00:00.000-08:00

Grinderman are Nick Cave, Warren Ellis, Martyn Casey and Jim Sclavunos and they have come to bring you the rock & roll. Never one to fuck around, Nick Cave returns to studio rediscovering his Birthday Party roots with a few of his Bad Seed cohorts and kicks out the jams like it's 1982.

Oh, and if you haven't seen it yet, he also wrote the screenplay for the fantastic outback western The Proposition. Queue that shit up in your Netflix post haste.

DOWNLOAD:
MP3: Grinderman :: Get It On
MP3: Grinderman :: No Pussy Blues
----------
www.myspace.com/grinderman ++ www.nickcaveandthebadseeds.com

+ Nick Cave available through eMusic's 25 Free MP3 offer.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
+ Visit The Hype Machine for additional Grinderman MP3s.

Dr. Dog :: Shake Shake Shake

2007-01-11T00:00:00.000-08:00

Dr. Dog: a name that has been floating in and out of my consciousness for the past couple of years, but it took a kind soul feeding me their past two recording efforts to really take hold. As a testament to the band, much of my time on flights the past two months has been occupied by the sounds their '05 album Easy Beat and the 2006 Takers and Leavers EP. How's that for an endorsement?

For the uninitiated: Four albums into their recording career Dr. Dog is a Philadelphia based indie outfit playing a variation of collected sounds culled from the what could be the collection of a dedicated 1970s vinyl enthusiast. Which, based of my tastes, has me pondering how I was not on board with these guys sooner? Ah well, only to make 2007 that much sweeter. Speaking of 2007, the band reportedly has an as-yet-untitled record in the can which will hopefully see the light of day this year. Elsewhere: Listen to the NPR audio program Fresh Air as Ken Tucker reviews the band's 2005 album Easy Beat.

+++ Tour Dates can be found on the band's website.

DOWNLOAD:
MP3: Dr. Dog :: Easy Beat (from Easy Beat)
MP3: Dr. Dog :: Say Something (from Easy Beat)
MP3: Dr. Dog :: Ain't It Strange (from Takers and Leavers)
MP3: Dr. Dog :: California (from Takers and Leavers)
----------
Amazon: Dr. Dog - Easy Beat
Amazon: Dr. Dog - Takers and leavers Ep
www.drdogmusic.com ++ www.myspace.com/drdog

Elsewhere: New audio blog on the loose.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
+ Visit The Hype Machine for additional Dr. Dog MP3s.

James Booker :: Live @ Montreux July 1978

2007-01-10T00:05:00.000-08:00

I uploaded this rare 1978 live recording from the Montreux Jazz Festival to the Drunkard in October of 2005 as part of the original Live Upload Series. I suspect many of you were not readers back then so it's with great pleasure I share it again here. I have several live albums from this New Orleans piano master, and this one is by far the best. Very raw arrangements with Booker backed by a loose pick-up band. Spiders on keys, indeed.

If you are unfamiliar with James Booker and/or traditional New Orleans piano-based music, this set - and a Professor Longhair collection - are a fine introduction. The video below of Booker performing "Papa Was A Rascal" is taken either from a French television performance from the same year -- presumably from the same tour -- or from the Montreux session itself. The exact date of the video is up for debate among fans.

L.A. Burnout :: Part Three of Three

2007-01-09T00:00:00.000-08:00

For Part One, Visit: L.A. Burnout :: Part One of Three
For Part Two,Visit: L.A. Burnout :: Part Two of Three
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Running the Drunkard has put me in touch, both through email and in person, with some great folks, many of whom have been eager to share their musical best-kept-secrets, and in the case of this post, their excellent themed compilations. The L.A. Burnout comp was mailed to me in November from a longtime reader based in NYC, which coincidentally arrived at the same time I was reading two books (Laurel Canyon: The Inside Story of Rock-and-Roll's Legendary Neighborhood & Hotel California: The True-life Adventures of Crosby, Stills, Nash, Young) chronicling the late sixties-early seventies Laurel Canyon incestuous music scene. The L.A. Burnout mix has since proved to have been the perfect companion piece.

I am now sharing it here, in three parts, with ye Drunkard faithfuls. If you too live in Los Angeles, play this mix around dusk while driving through the hills or Topanga with the windows down -- it's the next best thing to time travel.

DOWNLOAD:
MP3: Dennis Wilson :: Pacific Ocean Blue
MP3: Gene Clark :: From A Silver Phial
MP3: Jackson Brown :: Before The Deluge
MP3: Neil Young :: Revolution Blues
MP3: Warren Zevon :: Desperados Under the Eaves
MP3: Phil Ochs :: The World Began In Eden And Ended In Los Angeles [Live]
MP3: Flo & Eddie :: Keep It Warm
MP3: Steely Dan :: Babylon Sisters
MP3: John Philips :: Topanga Canyon
MP3: John Philips :: Malibu People
----------
Amazon: Laurel Canyon: Inside Story of Rock & Roll's Legendary Neighborhood
Amazon: Hotel California: The True-life Adventures of Crosby, Stills, Nash, Young

+ Many artists available through eMusic's 25 Free MP3 offer.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
+ Visit The Hype Machine for additional MP3s.

Casey Dienel :: Wind-Up Canary

2007-01-08T15:38:00.000-08:00

2006 saw many interesting online developments in the world of music; my favorite of these being the launch of the Daytrotter sessions. Whether widely introducing new artists to their audience or providing a new take on existing talent, the 'trotter is on point every time.

Like many, I too have Daytrotter to thank for my introduction to the music of Brooklyn-ite Casey Dienel. It was her Daytrotter cover of Pavement's "Cut Your Hair" that first grabbed my attention and led to my investigating her 2006 HUSH records album Wind-Up Canary. An auspicious debut, Dienel's take on songwriting and delivery is a breath of fresh air.

Elsewhere:
+ Casey Dienel on NPR's Open Mic, May 25, 2006
+ Casey Dienel's Daytrotter Sessions June 2006

**The Pavement cover is no longer hosted on Daytrotter's site so check it out below along with the first track off Wind-Up Canary, "Doctor Monroe."

DOWNLOAD:
MP3: Casey Dienel :: Doctor Monroe
MP3: Casey Dienel :: Cut Your Hair
www.myspace.com/caseydienel ++ www.caseydienel.com

+ Casey Dienel available through eMusic's 25 Free MP3 offer.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
+ Visit The Hype Machine for additional Casey Dienel MP3s.

L.A. Burnout :: Part Two of Three

2007-01-08T00:00:00.000-08:00

For Part One, Visit: L.A. Burnout :: Part One of Three
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Running the Drunkard has put me in touch, both through email and in person, with some great folks, many of whom have been eager to share their musical best-kept-secrets, and in the case of this post, their excellent themed compilations. The L.A. Burnout comp was mailed to me in November from a longtime reader based in NYC, which coincidentally arrived at the same time I was reading two books (Laurel Canyon: The Inside Story of Rock-and-Roll's Legendary Neighborhood & Hotel California: The True-life Adventures of Crosby, Stills, Nash, Young) chronicling the late sixties-early seventies Laurel Canyon incestuous music scene. The L.A. Burnout mix has since proved to have been the perfect companion piece.

I am now sharing it here, in three parts, with ye Drunkard faithfuls. If you too live in Los Angeles, play this mix around dusk while driving through the hills or Topanga with the windows down -- it's the next best thing to time travel.

DOWNLOAD:
MP3: Thomas Jefferson Kaye :: L.A.
MP3: The Beau Brummels :: Bless You California
MP3: LOVE :: Maybe The People Would Be
MP3: Gene Clark :: Los Angeles
MP3: The Byrds :: Bad Night At The Whiskey
MP3: David Soul :: Topanga
MP3: Neil Young :: L.A.
MP3: The Mamas & The Papas :: Twelve Thirty
MP3: Neil Young :: Sweet Joni
MP3: Joni Mitchell :: For The Roses
MP3: Jackie DeSahannon :: L.A.
MP3: Mickey Dolenz :: Beverly Hills
MP3: Flying Burrito Brothers :: Sin City
----------
Amazon: Laurel Canyon: Inside Story of Rock & Roll's Legendary Neighborhood
Amazon: Hotel California: The True-life Adventures of Crosby, Stills, Nash, Young

+ Many of the above artists available via eMusic's 25 Free MP3 offer.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
+ Visit The Hype Machine for additional artists MP3s.

The Broken West :: New Album

2007-01-07T18:06:00.000-08:00

As reported earlier on the Drunkard, local favorites The Brokedown switched their name to The Broken West this past Fall due to legal issues. No matter, the bands chops, their sound and the tunes themselves keep getting better. Having signed on to MERGE in late 2006 the band sees the release of their debut full-length album January 23rd following up the excellent '05 EP The Dutchman's Gold.

If The Dutchman's Gold was a a virtual kiss to the sounds of Southern California pop and rock over the past 30 years, I Can't Go On I'll Go On is a nod to the sounds of Alex Chilton's Memphian power-pop machine Big Star. Albeit a 21st century take on the sound tying in influences in both production, songwriting and arrangement. From the looks of it The Broken West have fairly extensive U.S. tour plans throughout the Winter and Spring of this year including a stop in Austin SXSW and run of shows with The Walkmen.

Previously on The Drunkard:
SXSW 2006 :: The Brokedown
The Brokedown :: The Dutchman's Gold
The Brokedown :: Silverlake Tuesday Nights
The Broken West :: Update

DOWNLOAD:
MP3: The Broken West :: On The Bubble
MP3: The Broken West :: So It Goes
----------
Amazon: The Broken West - I Can't Go On I'll Go On
www.thebrokenwest.com ++ www.myspace.com/thebrokenwest

+ The Broken West available through eMusic's 25 Free MP3 offer.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
+ Visit The Hype Machine for additional Broken West MP3s.

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The Velvet Underground :: Acetate MP3s?

By now everyone has heard the story of the lucky vinyl bin diver who by chance landed on the Velvet's acetate that preceded their debut album. I even heard an NPR piece on it in December while driving through Los Feliz one afternoon. Last week Be The Boy directed me to WFMU's Beware of The Blog who are presently hosting supposed MP3s of the acetate tracks. I am assuming these are tracks off the similar acetate that surfaced a few years ago. Here is a couple of the tracks with different arrangements below. For the whole set visit: WFMU's Beware of the Blog.

DOWNLOAD:
MP3: The Velvet Underground :: European Son
MP3: The Velvet Underground :: Heroin
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
+ Visit The Hype Machine for additional Velvet Underground MP3s.

Bonnie "Prince" Billy :: Lay And Love

2007-01-05T00:22:00.000-08:00

Will Oldham is starting off 2007 with the release of the Lay And Love single culled from his 2006 LP The Letting Go. If yer keeping tabs, this is the third single from the album preceded by the Cursed Sleep and Cold & Wet singles respectively. The Drag City pr push for "Lay And Love" makes the case, and rightfully so, that these enhanced singles are further expanding on the journey that is The Letting Go, one of my top twelve albums of 2006. So far eighteen songs and three videos -- not bad for a year's work.

Besides Oldham's ultra sparse take on Dylan's "Senor (Tales Of Yankee Power)" the disc has-- in addition to the other Dylan cover "Going To Acapulco" -- the video for "Lay And Love" just in case you can't wait for the You Tube. But hey, if you're an Oldham fanatic/completest you already have plans to get your hands on this. Release Date: January 23rd.

Below: In addition to Oldham's "Lay And Love," check out Dylan's original "Senor" off his big nasty full band 1978 album Street Legal.

DOWNLOAD:
MP3: Bonnie "Prince" Billy :: Lay And Love
MP3: Bob Dylan :: Senor (Tales Of Yankee Power)
----------
Amazon: Bonnie "Prince" Billy :: Lay & Love
Amazon: Bob Dylan :: Street Legal

+ Bonnie "Prince" Billy available through eMusic's 25 Free MP3 offer.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
+ Visit The Hype Machine for additional Bonnie "Prince" Billy MP3s.

L.A. Burnout :: Part One of Three

2007-01-04T08:00:00.000-08:00

Running the Drunkard has put me in touch, both through email and in person, with some great folks, many of whom have been eager to share their musical best-kept-secrets, and in the case of this post, their excellent themed compilations. The L.A. Burnout comp was mailed to me in November from a longtime reader based in NYC, which coincidental arrived at the same time I was reading two books chronicling the late sixties-early seventies Laurel Canyon incestuous music scene. The L.A. Burnout mix has since proved to have been the perfect companion piece.

I am now sharing it here, in three parts, with ye Drunkard faithfuls. If you too live in Los Angeles, play this mix around dusk while driving through the hills or Topanga with the windows down -- it's the next best thing to time travel.

DOWNLOAD:
MP3: Loudon Wainwright III :: Hollywood Hopeful
MP3: Johnny Darrell :: Mae Jean Goes To Hollywood
MP3: The Mamas & The Papas :: Safe In My Garden
MP3: Standells :: Riot On Sunset Strip
MP3: Jackie DeShannon :: Lurel Canyon
MP3: The Fun & Games :: Topanga Canyon Road
MP3: John Mayall :: Laurel Canyon Home
MP3: Spirit :: Topanga Windows
MP3: Mama Cass Eliott :: California Earthquake
MP3: The Birds :: Precious Kate
MP3: Albert Hammond :: It Never Rains In California
MP3: Jack Nitzsche :: Lower California
MP3: Guy Clark :: L.A. Freeway
----------
Amazon: Laurel Canyon: Inside Story of Rock & Roll's Legendary Neighborhood
Amazon: Hotel California: The True-life Adventures of Crosby, Stills, Nash, Young

+ Many of the above artists available via eMusic's 25 Free MP3 offer.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
+ Visit The Hype Machine for additional artists MP3s.

Now Podcasting :: Episode 20

2007-01-04T00:24:00.000-08:00

Welcome to Episode 20 of the podcast edition of The Aquarium Drunkard Show; airing live every Wednesday 2-4 p.m. PST at the Little Radio studios in downtown L.A. As requested, below is the tracklisting order for this week's podcast. Today's show marks the first episode of 2007. The beginning of the first track got cut off, which is fitting as the song's title is "Accidents Will Happen."
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Elvis Costello - Accidents Will Happen (oops...beginning got cut off) ++ Clem Snide - Chinese Baby ++ Josh Rouse - The White Trash Period Of My Life ++ Juana Molina - Río Seco ++ Califone - Pink And Sour ++ Dogme 95 - Summon My Baptist Ways ++ Luna - Everybody's Talkin' ++ M. Ward - Chinese Translation ++ Man Man - Engwish Bwudd ++ Neutral Milk Hotel - Oh Comely ++ Great Lake Swimmers - Moving Pictures Silent Films ++ Howlin' Rain - Death Prayer In Heaven's Orchard ++ Cat Power - He War ++ Dr. Dog - The World may never Know++ Tom Waits - Way Down In The Hole ++ Link Wray - La De Da ++ The Greenhornes - I'm Going Away ++ Liz Phair - Support System ++ Casey Dienel - Doctor Monroe ++ Palace Music - Horses ++ Travel By Sea - Complete Shakeup ++ The Shins - Phantom Limb ++ The Whigs - Nothing Is Easy ++ Sonic Youth - Little Trouble Girl ++ The Amps - I Am Decided ++ David Bowie - Speed Of Life ++ Elvis Costello - Big Tears ++ The Lemonheads - My Drug Buddy ++ José González - Heartbeats ++ Galaxie 500 - Flowers (live)
------------
Subscribe: Add This Feed
MP3 Download/Stream: Episode 20
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Aquarium Drunkard Podcast: Archives Here

James Brown :: The Federal Years 1956-1960

2007-01-03T00:00:00.000-08:00

As a rule I don't update An Aquarium Drunkard during the holidays, but the death of James Brown almost warranted that I do so. Being from Georgia and a lover of all things funky, the Godfather's passing was truly sad news and seemed (understandably) overshadowed in the media by the death of president Gerald Ford. If you searched diligently you could find some interesting television tributes, the best being the C-Span coverage of Brown's wake is Harlem and all-star funeral in Augusta, GA with musicians singing to Brown's casket from the stage. A homecoming fit for a king.

Below are some early career James Brown tracks that can be found on the the Hip-O Select release The Singles Volume One: The Federal Years 1956-1960. This set was released in '06 and is the first volume in the label's ongoing singles collections.

Elsewhere: Check out what Soul Sides has to say about Browns and the JBs funk foundations.

DOWNLOAD:
MP3: James Brown :: Please, Please, Please
MP3: James Brown :: Think
MP3: James Brown :: Why Do You Do Me

Video:
YouTube: James Brown - I Feel Good
YouTube: Michael Jackson speaking at James Brown's Funeral
----------
Purchase: James Brown - The Singles Volume One: The Federal Years 1956-1960
www.funky-stuff.com/jamesbrown
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
+ Visit The Hype Machine for additional James Brown tracks.

Matt Marque :: Nothing Personal

2007-01-02T16:02:00.000-08:00

2007...wow, that's gonna take a bit of getting used to. Hope everyone had a good holiday season and rang in the new year with a gusto. I know we did.

One of the things the holidays provided, with all the cross country travel they entailed, was an opportunity to revisit some old favorites on the iPod and laptop. One such album is Matt Marque's 2004 LP Nothing's Personal. Buoyed by guests such as Wilco's Glenn Kotche, Gillian Lisee (Fruit Bats), and Califone's Ben Massarella the album with it's low key beat driven folk vibe may be the perfect companion piece to inevitable drizzly winter grey skies...and that is high praise.

If you didn't check Marque out in 2005 when I wrote about him, tune in below to these tracks off Nothing's Personal.

DOWNLOAD:
MP3: Matt Marque :: Blowback
MP3: Matt Marque :: Undertow
MP3: Matt Marque :: Makeout
----------
Purchase: Matt Marque - Nothing Personal
www.mattmarque.com ++ www.truckstoprecords.com

+ Matt Marque available through eMusic's 25 Free MP3 offer.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
+ Visit The Hype Machine for additional Matt Marque MP3s.

HBO's The Wire :: Way Down In The Hole

2006-12-31T14:00:00.000-08:00

Friends will attest to the fact that the past few months have found me neck deep in all things related to the HBO serial drama The Wire. For those not familiar, the show is a fascinating take on the overtones an undertones of life and the inner workings of the modern American city (Baltimore, Maryland). Far from pretty the show has, over the course of four seasons, tied together complicated plot lines more akin to literature than television. This show ain't checkers, it's chess.

The music: Unlike, say, The Sopranos, The Wire changes up it's opening credits theme song each season. The first season used The Blind Boys of Alabama's spirited take on Tom Waits "Way Down In The Hole" while the second made use of Waits original off his '87 album Franks Wild Years.

Much of The Wire's innovative use of music can be credited to music supervisor Blake Leyh who also writes the music blog Ten Thousand Things.

DOWNLOAD:
MP3: Tom Waits :: Way Down In The Hole
MP3: The Blind Boys of Alabama :: Way Down In The Hole
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Amazon: Tom Waits - Franks Wild Years
Amazon: The Blind Boys of Alabama - Spirit of the Century

www.hbo.com/thewire ++ www.blindboys.com ++ www.tomwaits.com

+ Artists available through eMusic's 25 Free MP3 offer.
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+ Visit The Hype Machine for additional Tom Waits MP3s.

Neil Young :: BBC TV Theatre - 1971

2006-12-20T07:25:00.000-08:00

This short set was recorded February 23, 1971 at the BBC's Television Theatre in Shepherd's Bush, London. An incredibly clean recording, I am hoping Neil explores selections from this tour in his newly minted Archives series. As you might note from previous live Neil Young shows I have posted here in the past, this era of his solo live performances are a personal favorite.

Tour : 1971 Journey Through The Past solo tour
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Update: Neil has announced they will in fact be releasing this very set so I am taking these down as of Jan 16th 2007 as it's no longer a bootleg. Support Neil, buy this when it comes out.

Download:
~~MP3:~~ Neil Young :: Out On The Weekend 3:54
MP3: Neil Young :: Old Man 3:58
MP3: Neil Young :: Journey Through The Past 3:17
MP3: Neil Young :: Heart of Gold 5:12
MP3: Neil Young :: Don't Let It Bring You Down 3:35
MP3: Neil Young :: A Man Needs A Maid 6:23
MP3: Neil Young :: Love In Mind 2:54
MP3: Neil Young :: Dance Dance Dance 2:47
----------
www.neilyoung.com

+ + Explore eMusic's no risk 25 Free MP3 trial offer. No Strings.
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+ Visit The Hype Machine for additional Neil Young MP3s.

The Soft Boys :: Underwater Moonlight

2006-12-19T01:10:00.000-08:00

Robyn Hitchcock's 2006 album Olé! Tarantula was such a strong comeback it re-kindled my interest in The Soft Boys 2004 reunion album, Nextdoorland, which then whetted my appetite to dig out their second album, and opus, 1980's Underwater Moonlight. Whew - that was a mouthful. I had some of this album on cassette, but in '02 Matador re-released it with some interesting bonus tracks from the era tacked on to the end of disc one, plus a fairly decent second disc of demos..

Being that I was five years old at the time of Underwater Moonlight's release, I came to know of the group, not directly, but through their influence on much of the (more interesting) music of the mid-late '80s and nineties. A new wave, post punk cross-breed, this Byrds and Captain Beefheart obsessed group must have seemed incredibly out of place at the time, which is most definitely why they never achieved any of the acclaim of their peers. As it would play out vocalist Robyn Hitchcock would go on to inhabit cult-like status with his work with the Egyptians.

If you're a fan of Hitchcock's latest incarnation, the Venus 3, or his past projects give these neo-classics a download. I'm sure I'll be listening to a few of these flying cross-country back to the east coast for the holidays this evening. Cheers.

Elsewhere: Nice audio interview with Hitchcock on NPR's World Cafe December 7, 2006 .

DOWNLOAD:
MP3: The Soft Boys :: I Wanna Destroy You
MP3: The Soft Boys :: I Got The Hots
MP3: The Soft Boys :: Old Pervert
----------
Amazon: The Soft Boys :: Underwater Moonlight

www.robynhitchcock.com +++ www.thesoftboys.com

+ The Soft Boys available through eMusic's 25 Free MP3 trial offer.
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+ Visit The Hype Machine for additional Soft Boys MP3s.

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Love Is All :: Nine Times That Same Song

My first exposure to Sweden's Love Is All was at a day show last March at SXSW. Soon after I picked up their '05 foreign release Nine Times That Same Song which later saw a U.S. release with additional tracks. Being this was originally an '05 release it did not make it on to this year's best-of list, but certainly could have if going by the U.S. release date.

Elsewhere: Like Swedish pop? Then you'll want to regularly visit Swedes Please.

DOWNLOAD:
MP3: Love Is All :: Make Up Fall Out Make Up
MP3: Love Is All :: Busy Doing Nothing
----------
Amazon: Love Is All - Nine Times That Same Song
www.loveisall.se ++ www.myspace.com/loveisall8

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+ Visit The Hype Machine for additional Love Is All MP3s.

Ryan Adams :: Ludwigshafen, Germany

2006-12-18T06:00:00.000-08:00

Mr. Garrison Reid turned me onto this show via archive.org a few weeks ago claiming it was a super fine Ryan Adams bootleg head to toe -- he was right, too. The show, recorded this past October in Germany, has everything a good boot should: the band's in top form, it contains a few unreleased songs, the selected material is tops with the band reinterpreting much of it, and the audio quality is soundboard pristine. I saw the band twice on this tour and this set from Ludwigshafen faithfully represents the setlist and overall atmosphere very well. You can download it in it's entirety at archive.org, but below is a teaser should you need more of an incentive.

DOWNLOAD:
MP3: Ryan Adams :: Magnolia Mountain
MP3: Ryan Adams :: Blue Hotel
MP3: Ryan Adams :: New York, New York
MP3: Ryan Adams :: Freeway To The Canyon
MP3: Ryan Adams :: Easy Plateau
MP3: Ryan Adams :: Peaceful Valley
----------
Download: The show in it's entirety at Archive.org

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Seasons Greetings :: Hey Parker, It's Christmas

Ryan Adams and Parker Posey may no longer be a couple, but this holiday nugget from 2003 remains with us. Hearkening back to Adams' Love Is Hell period, with it's melancholy mood and Smiths undertones, "Hey Parker, It's Christmas" was originally released as a vinyl limited release 7 inch.

Download:
MP3: Ryan Adams :: Hey Parker, It's Christmas
--------
www.ryan-adams.com ++ www.answeringbell.com

+ Explore eMusic's no risk 25 Free MP3 trial offer.
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+ Visit The Hype Machine for additional Ryan Adams MP3s.

Roy Orbison :: In Dreams (Blue Velvet Redux)

2006-12-17T13:20:00.000-08:00

Roy Orbison, like many pioneering rock & roll artists of his generation, has the dubious honor of countless greatest hits collections bearing his name -- all of them of varying quality. I know this because I have owned several over the years. One of the more interesting of Orbison's 'best of' collections is the 1987 greatest hits package In Dreams. What makes this set interesting is also what makes it so controversial among Orbison traditionalists.

In Dreams is indeed a collection of Orbison's most beloved tracks, but, and this is a big but, they are all re-recordings of the originals. Admittedly, there is nothing on the package material that identifies this fact -- but other than that you are left with a phenomenal set that I personally find myself listening to as often as the originals. The sound, and T-Bone Burnett's production, of the '87 set have more bottom to them without losing the ethereal feel of the originals.

But why re-record? Allegedly David Lynch asked Orbison to re-cut the song "In Dreams" for a scene in his film Blue Velvet , which he later decided not to use. The prevailing school of thought is that either a) Orbison liked the results enough to re-record all his old hits with modern technology, or, b) and more probable, Orbison and his team realized if they re-cut the tracks and repackaged them they stood to gain 100 percent of the profits. Readily available in record stores used section -- if a fan of the haunting master crooner -- do consider picking up Orbison's late '80s redux.

Below is the brothel scene in which Lynch used "In Dreams" in his early calling card film Blue Velvet. Dean Stockwell's lip-sticked lip-synch is as disturbing as it is unforgettable. A classic Lynchian celluloid moment.

DOWNLOAD:
MP3: Roy Orbison :: In Dreams (1985)
----------
Amazon: In Dreams: Roy Orbison's Greatest Hits

+ Roy Orbison catalog available through eMusic's 25 Free MP3 offer.
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+ Visit The Hype Machine for additional Roy Orbison MP3s.

Califone :: Roots & Crowns

2006-12-15T16:18:00.000-08:00

As mentioned in the 2006 Year In Review, Califone's fifth album, Roots & Crowns, has become one of my favorite albums of 2006. My esteem and fondness for the LP grow with every listen -- and possibly might have edged it's way into my top twelve of '06 if given another week of listening.

With it's languid, kitchen sink blues sound running throughout, it's an album experience in every sense of the word. What immediately comes to mind is a 21st century twisted and low key take on Exile On Main Street if recorded in a dingy Chicago basement instead of a French mansion by the sea.

DOWNLOAD:
MP3: Califone :: Orchids
MP3: Califone :: Pink & Sour
----------
Amazon: Califone - Roots & Crowns
www.myspace.com/califonemusic

+ Califone available through eMusic's 25 no risk Free MP3 trial offer.
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+ Visit The Hype Machine for additional Califone MP3s.

Sonic Youth :: The Destroyed Room

2006-12-15T00:00:00.000-08:00

New releases tend to notoriously dry up the last month of the year. This being so, I had been anxiously awaiting the copy of Sonic Youth's odds and sods compilation, The Destroyed Room, to land in my mailbox. I am happy to report -- as far as die hard Sonic Youth fans go -- the set does not disappoint.

The 12 tracks are compiled from session outtakes, mostly from the Jim O'Rourke years, that had previously been unavailable to the public and/or rare (read: foreign vinyl imports, etc). While by no means an ideal starting point for those just getting on board with SY, the collection provides an interesting alternate history of the band. The track "Razor Blade" for example, the b-side to 1994's "Bull In Heather" off Experimental Jet Set Trash & No Star, conjures a rustic, acoustic backwoods vibe in contrast the albums, as noted at the time, return to experimentalism post Dirty.

Of course being a Sonic Youth record, The Destroyed Room is also well endowed with many improvisational noise freakouts and extended experimentalist jams. Fans of Washing Machine will note the official release of the extended version of "The Diamond Sea," all 20+ minutes of it. Brief notes contained within the booklet shed some light on the track inclusions lineage and history.

Previously: Sonic Youth's 2006 album Rather Ripped included on An Aquarium Drunkard's Best of 2006 Year In Review feature.

DOWNLOAD:
MP3: Sonic Youth :: Razor Blade (Bull In Heather B-side)
MP3: Sonic Youth :: Fire Engine Dream
----------
Amazon: Sonic Youth - The Destroyed Room
www.sonicyouth.com ++ sonic youth myspace

+ Sonic Youth available through eMusic's 25 no risk Free MP3 trial offer.
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+ Visit The Hype Machine for additional Sonic Youth MP3s.

Tropicalia :: A Brazilian Revolution in Sound

2006-12-14T15:00:00.000-08:00

Through my father's collection I inherited a formidable amount of out-of-print and rare Latin jazz, Latin soul, and salsa on vinyl. One day I will get around to ripping some of it to MP3 format to share on the Drunkard, but until then a number of key artists and tracks are captured on the Soul Jazz label's 2006 compilation Tropicalia :: A Brazilian Revolution in Sound. Under twenty dollars the comp rounds up a who's who of the Brazilian scene in the late '60s. Consider this collection a South American Nuggets -- exposing this music to, and inspiring, a whole new generation. Like underground late '60s french and Vietnamese rock/pop compilations, Tropicalia is a fascinating look at the melting pot of American pop and rock influences as heard through a foreign lens.

Also of note, Tom Ze released a great album via Luaka Bop this year entitled Estudando o Pagode that is well worth checking out if a Ze fan, and/or, tropicalia enthusiast.

Elsewhere: Gorilla vs. Bear included, and dropped knowledge on the compilation in his round up of reissues and comps of 2006.

DOWNLOAD:
MP3: Caetano Veloso :: Alfomega
MP3: Tom Ze :: Jimmy, Renda-Se
----------
Amazon: Tropicalia: A Brazilian Revolution in Sound

+ Many artists included available through eMusic's 25 Free MP3 trial offer.
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+ Visit The Hype Machine for additional Tropicalia MP3s.

Seasons Greetings :: The Pogues

2006-12-14T12:18:00.000-08:00

Irish lilt mixed with the attitude of early UK punk rock was what initially powered the The Pogues. Fronted by the (in)famous Shane MacGowan, The Pogues lifted traditional Irish music out of the gutter of past injecting it with a strong dose of piss and lager.

Originally released in 1987 If I Should Fall from Grace With God was the band's calling card and breakthrough to mainstream audiences anchored by the crossover Christmas ballad "Fairytale of New York." MacGowan's writing and the band are in top form here, swimming in cigarettes and Guinness.

DOWNLOAD:
MP3: The Pogues :: Fairytale of New York (Christmas In The Drunk Tank)
----------
www.pogues.com
www.shanemacgowan.com
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+ Visit The Hype Machine for additional Pogues MP3s.

David Bowie :: Under Review 1976-1979 DVD

2006-12-14T00:00:00.000-08:00

The most recent addition to the "Under Review" DVD series focuses on what would become known as Bowie's Berlin period from 1976-1979. A particularly fertile period in Bowie's artistic development, the sessions produced the albums Low, Heroes and Lodger, not to mention Bowie's production and co-writer credits on Iggy Pop's albums The Idiot and Lust For Life.

Like all "Under Review" projects, the DVD is made up of insider interviews and old Bowie interview audio commentary. Note: neither Bowie nor Brian Eno (who played a huge role is the sound and direction of this Bowie period) make an appearance here. In essence the two hour affair plays out like an oral history of the era. While not at all essential, it's still an enjoyable watch and worth adding to your Netflix queue if at all a Bowie fan.

The two tracks below are off of Bowie's albums Low and Heroes respectively. Nothing from Lodger as I do not own it. Maybe one to pick up in 2007.

DOWNLOAD:
MP3: David Bowie :: Speed of Life
MP3: David Bowie :: Heroes
----------
Amazon: David Bowie - Under Review 1976-1979 (DVD)
www.davidbowie.com

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Seasons Greetings :: Bing Crosby/David Bowie

And what would Christmas be without this unlikely pairing?? That's right, Bing Crosby paired with David Bowie on "Little Drummer Boy. " Someone obviously lost a bet on this one.

If you have seen the 1970s television special you will most definitely remember Bowie showing up at Crosby's home unannounced, in a coke delirium, on Christmas eve in his full-on Ziggy Stardust get up. Just kidding, but wouldn't that have been great?? Watch a subdued Bowie banter and croon with Bing in the video below via YouTube.

Download:
MP3: David Bowie & Bing Crosby :: Peace On Earth/Little Drummer Boy
Video: David Bowie & Bing Crosby :: Little Drummer Boy
----------
Amazon: Bing Crosby & David Bowie - Peace On Earth/Little Drummer Boy

+ Explore eMusic's no risk 25 Free MP3 trial offer.
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+ Visit The Hype Machine for additional David Bowie MP3s.

Ola Podrida :: One To Watch In 2007

2006-12-13T07:30:00.000-08:00

Last week I received an advance copy of Ola Podrida's self titled album that is being released through Plug Research in the Spring of 2007. What began as a nom de plume for David Wingo's home recording projects has blossomed into a live quartet playing in and around Wingo's present home base of Brooklyn, NY.

Continuing in the vein of his self released home recordings, the upcoming album is a thing of quiet beauty reminiscent of the very best under-the-radar homegrown '70s folk experiments. Those familiar with, and appreciative of, the resurgence in this brand of music take heed and keep your eye out for both this '07 album as well as future Wingo projects. I have a feeling this is only the beginning.

Coincidentally Wingo has scored some of the films by one of my very favorite contemporary directors, David Gordon Green. Those interested in the subtle nuances of the present day American south would do themselves a great service investigating Green's work.

DOWNLOAD:
MP3: Ola Podrida :: Instead
--
Previously:
MP3: Ola Podrida :: Jordanna
----------
www.myspace.com/olapodrida

+ Explore eMusic's no risk 25 Free MP3 trial offer.
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+ Visit The Hype Machine for additional Ola Podrida MP3s.

The Louvin Brothers :: Satan Is Real

2006-12-13T00:00:00.000-08:00

This album is the Rosetta stone of fire and brimstone country gospel. Released in 1960, wrapped up in quite possibly the greatest iconic album cover of all time, Satan Is Real pulled no punches.

Brothers Ira and Charlie Louvin conceived and concocted an original LP preaching Pentecostal warnings of the desires of the flesh, sin and of course, Satan. The brothers angelic harmonization adds a depth and reverence for the material further highlighting the fact that these two men believed every word they were singing/preaching. There is no middle ground here -- you are either in the flock or destined to an eternity of damnation.

Listen to the spoken word section of the album's opening track "Satan Is Real." The album's liner notes reveal that brother Ira Louvin always felt guilty for ignoring his calling to the ministry and this piece was the next best thing preaching "it's sweet to know that God is real...but Satan is real too."

Many of us got turned onto this record while exploring the "roots" of the alt.country scene via The Byrds 1968 album, featuring Gram Parsons, Sweetheart of The Rodeo. Below is the Byrds take on the Louvin's "The Christian Life."

DOWNLOAD:
MP3: The Louvin Brothers :: Satan Is Real
MP3: The Louvin Brothers :: The Christian Life
--
Bonus:
MP3: The Byrds :: The Christian Life
MP3: The Byrds :: The Christian Life (rehearsal)
----------
Amazon: The Louvin Brothers - Satan Is Real

+ Explore eMusic's no risk 25 Free MP3 trial offer.
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+ Visit The Hype Machine for additional Louvin Brothers MP3s.

Okkervil River :: Listening To Otis Redding At Home During Christmas

2006-12-12T13:39:00.000-08:00

"Listening To Otis Redding At Home During Christmas"

"Home is where beds are made and butter is added to toast. On a cold afternoon you can float room to room like a ghost. Take the crèche out and argue about who gets to set up the kings. And I know that it’s home because that’s where the stereo sings “I’ve got dreams to remember.” But not even home can be with you forever. It’s Christmastime and the plane flies me over white hills to a town in a dream, where the sky is frozen and still, and a room (that’s not mine but it’s just like I left it before, with the wax from the candles all dusty and locks on the door) where I held you so tenderly, and where in summer I opened your letter to me. ..."

DOWNLOAD:
MP3: Okkervil River :: Listening To Otis Redding At Home During Christmas
----------
Amazon: Okkervil River - Don't Fall In Love With Everyone You See
www.myspace.com/okkervilriver ++ okkervil website

+ Okkervil River available through eMusic's no risk 25 Free MP3 trial offer.
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+ Visit The Hype Machine for additional Okkervil River MP3s.

Rosie Thomas :: These Friends of Mine

2006-12-11T00:00:00.000-08:00

Earlier this fall Seattle's Rosie Thomas put the finishing touches on her new album, These Friends of Mine, featuring a bevy of guests including: Sufjan Stevens, Damien Jurado, Denison Whitmer, Dave Bazan, and Jeremy Enigk. The sessions yielded some fine collaborations with each gentleman adding his own stamp to the material. The album is being released on Rosie's new imprint "Sing Along Records" through the Nettwerk group. Embracing technology, the digital release comes out December 12th with a hard physical release slated for March 13th.

DOWNLOAD:
MP3: Rosie Thomas :: All The Way To New York City
----------
www.rosiethomas.com

+ Rosie Thomas available through eMusic's 25 Free MP3 trial offer.
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+ Visit The Hype Machine for additional Rosie Thomas MP3s.

Christmas Medley :: December 2006

2006-12-09T08:08:00.000-08:00

As far as we're concerned, blog-wise, Big Rock Candy Mountain is the place to be during the month of December. For three years now, every December, the site steadily offers up obscure quality Christmas nuggets you won't hear at the mall or Starbucks. What's more impressive is the fact none of the tunes have been repeated since they began their holiday tunes tradition.

The following is a medley of tracks I gathered last year from Big Rock Candy Mountain's December Christmas series. For a current dose of Christmas Americana head on over and check out the their latest holiday finds.

DOWNLOAD:
MP3: Clarence Carter :: Backdoor Santa
MP3: Jack Scott :: There's Trouble Brewin'
MP3: The Youngsters :: Chistmas In Jail
MP3: Mae West :: Put The Loot In The Boot, Santa
MP3: Champion Jack DuPree :: Santa Claus Blues
MP3: Loretta Lynn :: Country Christmas
MP3: Red Simpson :: Truckin' Trees For Christmas
MP3: Brenda Lee :: I'm Gonna Lasso Santa Claus
MP3: Big John Greer :: We Wanna See Santa Do The Mambo
MP3: Hank Thompson :: I'd Like To Have An Elephant For Christmas
MP3: Roger Miller :: Old Toy Trains
----------

+ Explore eMusic's no risk 25 Free MP3 trial offer.
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+ Visit The Hype Machine for additional Holiday MP3s.

The Pretenders :: Pretenders II

2006-12-08T07:25:00.000-08:00

Allow me to, again, gush over another Pretenders reissue. This time it's their 1981 second album appropriately entitled Pretenders II. The short-lived band led by guitarist James Honeyman-Scott and Chrissie Hynde sadly only lasted for these first two albums (after Honeyman's death The Pretenders name simply became a vehicle for Hynde) so these reissues, with their bonus cuts and live tracks are a true treat.

Like the reissue of The Pretenders debut (review here), Pretenders II follows the same format: housed on disc one is the original remastered album, and the live tracks and outtakes/bonus material on the second. If you only know the band from it's sub par Hynde led '80s MTV existence, I recommend checking out these first two seminal new wave/post punk albums.

Previously: Aquarium Drunkard review of The Pretenders debut reissue.

DOWNLOAD:
MP3: The Pretenders :: Up The Neck (live)
MP3: The Pretenders :: Message of Love
----------
Amazon: The Pretenders - Pretenders II
www.pretendersarchives.com
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+ Visit The Hype Machine for additional Pretenders MP3s.

2006 Year In Review, Pt 2 :: The 12 Albums

2006-12-07T00:00:00.000-08:00

Part Two of our Year In Review...Part One can be found HERE.

The following list is comprised of my favorite 12 albums released in 2006. Take note that this list is in flux, and could be very different a month from now. For example, last year I declared Sufjan Steven's Illinois as my top album of '05, but in retrospect that title, without a doubt, goes to The National's Alligator. Such is the nature of time spent with music and our appreciation of it. As I tend to spend a lot of time with older artist's catalogs, I encourage you to visit the blogroll to the right too see how other contemporary audio blogs are weighing in on the year in music. It's been a great year -- thanks for reading.

- A.D.
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Robert Pollard :: From A Compound Eye (Merge)

After disbanding Guided By Voices a solo Robert Pollard ironically released, via Merge Records, the best GBV record in years entitled From A Compound Eye. Working with producer and collaborator Todd Tobias, Pollard made good on his threat to release a double album and for the most part the results were excellent all the way through. True to himself, as he is known to do, Pollard also released another album on Merge in 2006 entitled Normal Happiness to an albeit overall less enthusiastic response.

DOWNLOAD:
MP3: Robert Pollard :: Dancing Girls And Dancing Men
MP3: Robert Pollard :: Love Is Stronger Than Witchcraft
----------
Amazon: Robert Pollard - From A Compound Eye
www.robertpollard.net

+ Robert Pollard available through eMusic's 25 Free MP3 offer.
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Centro-matic :: Fort Recovery (Misra)

Even before it's official release, Drive-by Trucker , Patterson Hood hailed Centro-matic's 2006 LP his favorite album of the year. High praise indeed, but far from unwarranted. Fort Recovery is the sound of Centro-matic coming into their own after many years working together in both the Centro-matic and South San Gabriel. The album was also the soundtrack driving across the country -- and back -- with my wife this past summer. "Patience For The Ride " took on a wholly personal meaning eating up mile after mile of U.S. freeway for two plus months.

Related: A.D. review of Centro-matic's performance in L.A. September 2006 at The Troubadour.

DOWNLOAD:
MP3: Centro-matic :: Calling Thermatico
MP3: Centro-matic :: Patience For The Ride
----------
Amazon: Centro-matic - Fort Recovery
www.centro-matic.com ++ www.south-san-gabriel.com

+ Centro-matic available through eMusic's 25 Free MP3 offer.
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TV On The Radio :: Return To Cookie Mountain (Interscope Records)

Sonically descending from out of nowhere, Brooklyn’s TV On The Radio tore out of the gate with their Young Liars EP unleashing their chaotic blend of fuzzed out post-rock on the indie-minded masses. Effortlessly combining an organic blend of gospel, free-jazz, punk, and drum loops, TVOTR sounded like nothing else on the contemporary music scene. That claim can still be made in 2006. Riffing on the same atmospheric paranoia as its predecessor, yet expanding on both the sound and the songwriting, Return To Cookie Mountain defies convention. Like their previous work, this album continues to show the listener something new with each listen.

Related : A.D. review of TV On The Radio's performance in L.A. September 2006 at The Hollywood Bowl.

DOWNLOAD:
MP3: TV On The Radio :: Wolf Like Me
MP3: TV On The Radio :: I Was A Lover
----------
Amazon: TV On The Radio - Return To Cookie Mountain
www.tvontherdio.com ++ www.myspace.com/tvotr

+ TV On The Radio available through eMusic's 25 Free MP3 Trial offer.
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Howe Gelb :: 'Sno Angel Like You (Thrill Jockey Records)

Another great road album from last summer's cross-country fandango, this LP is quickly earning a "modern classic" tag in my book.

If you don't know the score already, this is the album Howe Gelb enlisted the help from a Canadian Gospel choir (Voices Of Praise Choir) to back his off-kilter musical leanings. This odd pairing works amazingly well adding a texture to Gelb's music that sounds more like exaltation than church.

DOWNLOAD:
MP3: Howe Gelb :: Howe Gelb :: Paradise Here Abouts
MP3: Howe Gelb :: But I Did Not
----------
Amazon: Howe Gelb - 'Sno Angel Like You
www.howegelb.com ++ www.giantsand.com

+ Howe Gelb available through eMusic's 25 Free MP3 Trial offer.
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Drive-By Truckers :: A Blessing And A Curse (New West)

A Blessing and a Curse finds the Truckers once again delivering yet another stellar batch of raw, imaginative Southern Rock. The album’s opener and first single, “Feb 14,” finds Hood ruminating on the aftermath of a less than perfect romance. Standard rock ‘n roll fare, only Hood puts his undeniable touch on the well-worn subject matter, and in doing so, owns it. Contributions from both Cooley and Isbell round out the album touching on subjects not at all inherently “Southern,” which is something the band has stated they wanted to achieve with this album. No matter the Zip code the band, once again, achieves big here.

Related: A.D. review of the Truckers two night run in L.A. at the House of Blues last May.

DOWNLOAD:
MP3: Drive-By Truckers :: Feb 14
MP3: Drive-By Truckers - A World Of Hurt
www.drivebytruckers.com

+ Drive-By Truckers available through eMusic's 25 Free MP3 Trial offer.
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The Hold Steady :: Boys And Girls In America (Vagrant Records)

To the uninitiated, not unlike it's predecessor, 2004's Separation Sunday, Boys and Girls in America is at first listen quite the unassuming album. Full of loud bursts of guitars, bordering on pastiche keyboard fills, and leader Craig Finn's bark, The Hold Steady come off as a seasoned bar band. It's only on further examination that you decode the back alley poetry and creeping charm that make up the band. Paeans to drinking, love, misery, the streets, and the working class -- The Hold Steady can at times seem like (albeit less depressing) an aural counterpart to a Bukowski short story.

What has been the most surprising (and refreshing) about The Hold Steady is the fact that they have been so accepted in contemporary music. Non-pretentious, un-ironic, bare bones rock & roll has not been fashionable in years and yet these guys are making it in today's fickle rock landscape.

Previously: You can read my two part interview with The Hold Steady's Franz Nicolay from last January HERE.

DOWNLOAD:
MP3: The Hold Steady :: Southtown Girls
MP3: The Hold Steady :: Chips Ahoy!
----------
Amazon: The Hold Steady - Boys And Girls In America
www.theholdsteady.com ++ www.myspace.com/theholdsteady

+ The Hold Steady available through eMusic's 25 Free MP3 Trial offer.
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Bob Dylan :: Modern Times (Columbia)

“I own the Sixties. Did I ever want to acquire the Sixties? No. But I own the Sixties – who’s going to argue with me? I’ll give ’em to you if you want ’em. You can have ’em.” -- Bob Dylan in Rolling Stone, 2006

When you’re Bob Dylan you not only have the luxury of making such statements, as the above, but also have the goods to back them up. From a (pop) cultural standpoint Dylan in many ways does “own” the tumultuous decade, but as plainly stated later in the same interview, he is not interested in being judged against his back-catalog, as he would rather an audience view him an artist of the present. And an artist of the present he is. Returning with his first album in five years, Dylan explores the roots-rock waters navigated on 2001’s Love & Theft with his usual brand of steadfast lyrics matched with a confident cowboy backbeat.

Recording with his longtime touring band, Dylan again acts as his own producer under the guise of “Jack Frost” deftly getting the sound out of his band that before had only existed in his head. After the barn-burner opener “Thunder On The Mountain”, the album eases gracefully into its second track “Spirit On The Water” – a seven minute-plus waltzy lovesong demonstrating classic Dylan at his best. The remainder of the album weaves and darts a similar pace, with the question remaining: Is it natural to be this good on you’re 42nd album? I think in the case of Dylan the answer is a resounding “yes.”

Related: Various bootlegs and alternate sessions were shared on A.D. in 2006. Search the archives.

Download:
MP3: Bob Dylan :: Spirit On The Water
----------
Amazon: Bob Dylan - Modern Times
++ www.bobdylan.com
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Bonnie “Prince” Billy :: The Letting Go (Drag City)

Will Oldham has long mastered mood and atmosphere in his work. His lyrics and instrumentation have often painted scenes of quiet desperation, longing and pain, and this latest LP proves no exception. While The Letting Go stays the course thematically for the majority of the album's path, Valgeir Sigurdsson's production and the addition of strings and chamber orchestration give it an added layer of feeling that amplifies some of the elements at play here. Also new and noteworthy, is the welcome addition of Dawn McCarthy lending her voice to the harmonies that swell throughout the work. It's as if The "Bonnie" Prince has found a New Partner.

DOWNLOAD:
MP3: Bonnie “Prince” Billy :: Cursed Sleep
MP3: Bonnie “Prince” Billy :: Lay And Love
----------
Amazon: Bonnie “Prince” Billy - The Letting Go
www.bonnieprincebilly.com

+ Bonnie “Prince” Billy available through eMusic's 25 Free MP3 Trial offer.
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Sonic Youth :: Rather Ripped (Geffen)

There are some artists whose every brushstroke, plucked note, and keystroke are anxiously awaited by their fervent admirers. Sonic Youth is such an institution.

Rather Ripped yet again exemplifies why Sonic Youth are the Grateful Dead of Art-Rock. Like those aged hippies of yore, no one does what Sonic Youth do, nor could. Pale imitations yes, but never matched, nor topped. With the exodus of Jim O’Rourke, the album also finds the band returning to a tight four piece unit. It’s this essential core that makes the “Sonic Youth” sound so readily apparent and familiar. It is none more than evident within the first few notes of the LP’s opening track “Reena.” A Kim Gordon vehicle that feels as natural as anything from the band’s extensive back-catalog, the track pulls you into the album’s world immediately.

With 20+ albums under their belt Sonic Youth break no new ground here, but explore and expand on the firm foundation that they have been mining since their NYC No Wave beginnings back in the early 1980s. The more things change, the more the stay the same.

Related: A.D. review of Sonic Youth's performance in Atlanta 6-19-06 at The Centerstage.

DOWNLOAD:
MP3: Sonic Youth :: Do You Believe In Rapture?
MP3: Sonic Youth :: Incinerate
----------
Amazon: Sonic Youth - Rather Ripped
www.sonicyouth.com

+ Sonic Youth available through eMusic's 25 Free MP3 Trial offer.
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Cat Power :: The Greatest (Matador)

Calling The Greatest Cat Power's Dusty In Memphis is about as spot on a reference as you can get; both in the delivery of the material, and the circumstances.

Like Dusty Springfirled decades before her, Chan Marshall rolled onto Memphis, cold, as an outsider and recorded with a crack, native Memphis band to stunning results. She may have also created, again like Springfield, her most accompished work.

Related: A.D. review of Cat Power's November 2006 performance at Los Angeles' Orpheum Theatre.

DOWNLOAD:
MP3: Cat Power :: The Greatest
MP3: Cat Power :: Could We
----------
Amazon: Cat Power - The Greatest
www.catpowermusic.com

+ Cat Power available through eMusic's 25 Free MP3 Trial offer.
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Horse Feathers :: Words Are Dead (Lucky Madion Records)

Hailing from Portland, this indie folk duo's debut album Words Are Dead dominated my listening habits in the late summer months. Horse Feathers rustic use of strings, saws, and bows arrived fully formed, both on disc and in person, which make it all the more startling these two are not the seasoned veterans their music seems to invoke. RIYL: Iron & Wine, Travel By Sea, Will Oldham, Sufjan Stevens.

Related: A.D. first impressions of Horse Feathers - August 2006.

DOWNLOAD:
MP3: Horse Feathers :: Finch On Sunday
MP3: Horse Feathers :: Hardwood Pews
----------
Amazon: Horse Feathers - Words Are Dead

www.myspace.com/horsefeathersmusic

+ Horse Feathers available through eMusic's 25 Free MP3 Trial offer.
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Daniel Hutchens :: Lovesongs For Losers (Autumn Tone)

Note: Released in October, this was my newly minted labels' debut release recorded last Spring at David Barbe's studio in Athens, GA. I could'nt be happier with the results.

The record plays like the bastard child of Hutchens' long running rock & roll outfit Bloodkin with the quirkier, creative shadings and nuances of his solo work. It's the sound of an American bard from the South -- there is no artifice here. I highly endorse not only this recording, but encourage fans of the Drunkard, and/or Southern Gothic/Americana/No Depression, to seek out LESSER, the seven Bloodkin LPs, and of course Hutchens' live gigs. This guy is a national treasure, and I'll stand on Steve Earle's coffee-table in my Jack Purcell's and say just that.

Related: Daniel Hutchens :: Autumn Tone Preview ++ PASTE Magazine :: Daniel Hutchens

DOWNLOAD:
MP3: Daniel Hutchens :: Red Velvet Cake
MP3: Daniel Hutchens :: Blood From The Rock
----------
Purchase: Daniel Hutchens - Lovesongs For Losers
www.autumntone.com ++ www.danielhutchens.com

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The Best of The Rest :: Albums 2006

The following is a list of albums that I fully endorse picking up, and -- in fact -- look forward to spending more time with in 2007. Some barely missed the cut for the above list as "favorites" so take that into consideration while perusing.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Track A Tiger :: Woke up early the day I died
I can't recommend this enough for those looking for a solid and lazy alt.county/pop album.
***
The Knife :: Silent Shout
I haven't spent this much time with an electronica based album since the late '90s.
***
M. Ward :: Post-War
Post-War further cristalizes Ward's folk laden, troubadour vision
***
Yo La Tengo :: I Am Not Afraid of You and I Will Beat Your Ass

If the name didn't grab your attention the music certainly will. Regained my faith in the band.

***
Sparklehorse :: Dreamt for Light Years in the Belly of a Mountain
Mark Linkous triumphantly returns to the public eye with a beauty of an album.
***
Neko Case :: Fox Confessor Brings the Flood
Neko's finest solo work yet. Everything comes together here from the lyrics, delivery and instrumentation.
***
Grizzly Bear :: Yellow House
The production and arrangements on Yellow House alone warrant multiple listens.

***
Destroyer :: Destroyer's Rubies
An at times challenging album that delivers after multiple listens. Mr. Bejar's best yet.
***
Califone :: Roots & Crowns

Lauded as one of the years best indie releases -- I am just getting to know this month.
***
Beach House :: Self Titled
Fantastic. The second coming of Mazzy Star...or the closest we'll get bar a reuion.
***
Robyn Hitchcock :: Olé! Tarantula
This album really plays up to Hitchcock's strengths. Not to be missed if at all a Soft Boys fan.
***
Belle & Sebastian :: The Life Pursuit
The best Belle & Sebastian album in years. Seriously.
***
Band of Horse :: Everthing All The Time
This Seattle band came out f the gate and were just what my My Morning Jacket deprived ears needed.
***
Gob Iron :: Death Songs for the Living
Jay Farrar and Anders Parker's aold time collaboration. Appalachian Spooky.
***
The Raconteurs :: Broken Boy Soldiers

This affair between Brendan Benson and Jack White was everything I had hoped.
***
Howlin' Rain :: Self Titled
The grateful dead for the indie-rock/cool-haircut set.
***
Beck :: The Information
After initially dismissing Beck post-Guero, this album brought me back into the fold.
***
The Whigs :: Give 'Em All A Big Fat Lip
Imagine Pavement or possibly early Strokes if they were Southerners.
***
Midlake :: The Trials of Van Occupanther
Home to my favorite single of the year, this album is great in and of itself.
***
Lucero :: Rebels, Rogues & Sworn Brothers
One of my fave bands the past year, I FORGOT to list this LP when I posted last night. Thanks to the commenters who helped me remember this fine album of 2006.

+ Artists available through eMusic's 25 Free MP3 Trial offer.
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2006 Year In Review :: Part One

2006-12-06T18:00:00.000-08:00

Best 2006 Reissue :: Pavement - Wowee Zowee (Sordid Sentinels Edition)

Matador continued their excellent Pavement reissue campaign in '06 with the Wowee Zowee: Sordid Sentinels Edition. Like it's reissued predecessors, the Sentinels reissue brings the goods making itself truly essential to Pavement fans. The two disc affair gathers the outtakes, BBC Sessions, demos, b-sides, one-offs and EPs of the era in an easy one stop shop. Even the most savvy Internet downloader will find something here to warrant ponying up the bucks. Besides the music Sordid Sentinels includes in the packaging a sixty-plus page booklet that includes SM liner notes, photos and other noteworthy tidbits.

Relishing in it's own quirkiness the album holds up extremely well today -- as well as it did upon it's release -- making it many a Pavement fans most preferred and cohesive listening experience in album form. An excellent creeper album that will soon have you coming back for more, and further cements Pavement's reputation as the most important band of the 1990s.

DOWNLOAD:
MP3: Pavement :: Rattled By The Rush
MP3: Pavement :: Grounded
MP3: Pavement :: Heckler Spray/In The Mouth Of A Desert
----------
Amazon: Pavement - Wowee Zowee (Sordid Sentinals)

+ Pavement catalog available through eMusic's 25 Free MP3 trial offer

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Best 2006 Concert DVD Release :: Neil Young - Heart of Gold

The Jonathan Demme directed concert film originally blew me out of my seat when I saw it on the big screen in Hollywood last winter. Neil Young -- bigger than life onstage -- with new material and in excellent form. With the DVD release of the Heart of Gold movie last June we have the perfect take-home souvenir from the event.

Filmed in Nashville at the famed Ryman auditorium, the concert was a fine way to debut material off his (then) latest album Prairie Wind. Backed by an incredible band, with some players going back 35 years with Neil, the film is an up close look at the concert experience. Demme, in a move similar to his work on Talking Heads' Stop Making Sense, concentrates on the players rarely acknowledging the audience which assists in not breaking the wall for the film's viewers.

DOWNLOAD:
Video: Trailer Part One
Video: Trailer Part Two
----------
Amazon: Neil Young - Heart of Gold

Neil Young's Garage Website ++ Heart of Gold Movie Website

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Best 2006 Music Documentary Release :: The Devil And Daniel Johnston

A truly great documentary works for the audience regardless of it's source material; one such recent example of this is The Devil And Daniel Johnston. Regarded by some as an incomparable artistic genius, and by others as a troubled and talentless hack, Johnston's cult of personality is polarizing to say the least.

A haunting film, director Jeff Feuerzeig captures the life and times of the outsider musician and artist splicing Johnston's old Super 8 footage, audio cassette journal recordings, past performances, and interviews with Johnston's family, friends, and colleagues past and present. Plagued by crippling mental illness since his teens, the documentary is at times an incredibly tough watch thankfully aided by the levity of humor.

DOWNLOAD:
MP3: Clem Snide :: Don't Let The Sun Go Down On Your Grievance (cover)
MP3: Daniel Johnston :: Casper The Friendly Ghost
Video: The Devil and Daniel Johnston (Trailer)
----------
Amazon: The Devil And Daniel Johnston

+ Daniel Johnston available through eMusic's 25 Free MP3 offer.

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Best 2006 Compilation/Box Set :: What It Is! Funky Soul And Rare Grooves (1967-1977)

This is without a doubt one of the best compilations, of any genre, I have seen/heard in years. Though I rarely write about it on An Aquarium Drunkard, old and rare funk, soul and r&b long has been a favorite of mine. Having said that I was thrilled upon learning of this release earlier in the year and even more excited hearing the results in October.

Sadly bastardized commercially in the late '70s, the charms and nuggets of rarer funk and soul have been rediscovered by a new audience in recent years (aided by the Internet) and collections such as this are further proof of the validity of long ignored sub-genres.

What It Is, in 91 tracks, covers 1967-1977, a decades worth of creativity boasting both tunes familiar to casual funk and soul fans, but more interestingly gathers up little known and, until now, harder to find tracks, some of which have long been out of print. Organized chronologically, the evolution of the music is both fascinating and enlightening as you listen to the pieces coming together over ten years. Highly Recommended.

Download:
MP3: Cold Grits :: It's Your Thing
MP3: Dr. John :: Everybody Wanna Get Rich (Rite Now)

--------------------
Runner up -- Best 2006 Compilation/Box Set :: The Motown Sound Single Series

HIP-O Select's website should be on your go-to list once a month just to see what incredibly interesting rare albums and/or compilations they are putting out. Absolutely one of my favorite imprints releasing music today. If you have been keeping track, you are aware HIP-O has been releasing The Complete Motown Singles Series throughout the year. The end of 2006 leaves us with Vol. Six which encompasses every single from the year 1966. Volume five was amazing, but number six may be edging it out the more I listen to it. Scoop: a 5-CD, 125-track set. It features the A-side and B-side of every single released by Motown and its subsidiary labels during the year, including several alternate pressings.
----
www.hip-oselect.com

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Best 2006 Film Soundtrack/Score :: Little Miss Sunshine OST

A nice little indie flick with a nice little accompanying soundtrack. It was the die hard Devotchka fans who first tipped me off to this soundtrack prior to my having any knowledge of the film itself. The soundtrack, like the film, became one of my favorites of the year edging out Sophia Coppola's excellent and eclectic choice of music in her luke warm film Marie Antoinette.

Besides Devotchka, Little Miss Sunshine's soundtrack features Sufjan Stevens and one remixed Rick James hit. Don't laugh...it's dope. But overall it's composer Mychael Danna's work with Devotchka that is really worth the trip. Their work together perfectly compliments the film's nuances and holds up steadily as a stand alone listen which, in my opinion, is the true testament of a film score and/or soundtrack.

Download:
MP3: DeVotchka :: La Llorona
MP3: DeVotchka :: How It Ends
----------
Amazon: Little Miss Sunshine OST +++ www.devotchka.net

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Best Video of 2006 :: Bonnie "Prince" Billy - "Cursed Sleep"

"Cursed Sleep," the video to the lead single off of Bonnie "Prince" Billy's 2006 album The Letting Go ,finds Will Oldham's alter-ego lost in the woods before being taken in by what appear to be his kin. Throughout the video we are treated to scene's of The Bonnie Prince and family dining, exchanging gifts, wrestling, breaking out a smoke machine for impromptu living room jam sessions, flying hawks, and other assorted tomfoolery. Watch it below. Directed by Andy Bruntel.

Download:
Video: Bonnie "Prince" Billy :: Cursed Sleep
MP3: Bonnie "Prince" Billy :: Cursed Sleep
----------
Amazon: Bonnie "Prince" Billy - The Letting Go

++ Bonnie "Prince" Billy available at eMusic via the 25 Free MP3 Trial offer.

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Stand Out Single of 2006 :: Midlake - "Roscoe"

A year ago I couldn't begin to tell you who the Denton, TX band

Midlake were or what brand of music they penned -- in 2006 they certainly got my attention. Hands down Midlake's song, "Roscoe," takes the cake as single of the year as far as An Aquarium Drunkard is concerned. At four minutes and fifty seconds this indie-rock epic bridged the gap in a wide variety of genres with a story imagining life if born in 1891 named Roscoe.

The second track on the band's second LP, The Trials of Van Occupanther, "Roscoe" works as an invitation into the album's atmosphere and sound which dates back to '70s prog-rock-folk without sounding retro or kitch. Listen below, and be sure to check out the excellent accompanying video....

Download:
MP3: Midlake :: Roscoe
Video: Midlake :: Roscoe
----------
Amazon: Midlake - The Trials of Van Occupanther
++ www.midlake.net ++ www.myspace.com/midlake

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Stay Tuned: Up Next, Aquarium Drunkrd's 2006 Year End Review, Part Two

Live Upload Series :: A Perfect Echo Vol 1.5

2006-12-06T00:01:00.000-08:00

Veteran readers will note this one is a long time coming. Last February I posted the first half (1967 - 1971) of the Neil Young soundboard derived live collection, A Perfect Echo Volume 1, and recently a kind soul, and A.D. reader, sent me the second half (1974 - 1976) to complete the set. As promised I now share it here with you.

For those interested in the back story, here are notes on the series via sharing the groove:

"Braden Strickler has done it again. He's compiled and lovingly mastered, almost exclusively from soundboard recordings, an 8-DISC SET which runs chronologically from August 1967 to January 2001. It's like an expanded version of the "Rock 'n' Roll Cowboy" concept, but with far superior sound.

This is a compilation of soundboard recordings from 1967-2001. The term soundboard is a bit of a misnomer. By soundboard I mean, basically, not an audience recording. Some are true soundboards, while others are FM, TV, ALD, or video-sourced recordings. The recordings were all taken from cdrs or videos that are circulating in the trading community. There are a total of 115 tracks (109 songs, as 6 get repeated). Some years were heavy with available recordings (1976 and 1989 come to mind). I tried to balance the set by not using too many songs from a single show. The entire 8 discs run in, roughly, chronological order.

DOWNLOAD:
MP3: Neil Young :: Walk On (csny - westbury, ny, 8-sep-1974)
MP3: Neil Young :: Ambulance Blues (csny - westbury, ny, 8-sep-1974)
MP3: Neil Young :: Lookin' For A Love (san francisco, ca, 23-mar-1975)
MP3: Neil Young :: No One Seems To Know (tokyo, japan, 10-mar-1976)
MP3: Neil Young :: Human Highway (london, england, 31-mar-1976)
MP3: Neil Young :: Cortez The Killer (london, england, 31-mar-1976)
MP3: Neil Young :: White Line (fort worth, tx, 10-nov-1976)
MP3: Neil Young :: Don't Cry No Tears (chicago, il, 15-nov-1976)
MP3: Neil Young :: Peace of Mind (chicago, il, 15-nov-1976)
MP3: Neil Young :: A Man Needs A Maid (chicago, il, 15-nov-1976)
MP3: Neil Young :: Give Me Strength (chicago, il, 15-nov-1976)
MP3: Neil Young :: Lotta Love (chicago, il, 15-nov-1976)
MP3: Neil Young :: Like A Hurricane (chicago, il, 15-nov-1976)
MP3: Neil Young :: Harvest (boston, ma, 22-nov-1976)
MP3: Neil Young :: Campaigner (boston, ma, 22-nov-1976)
MP3: Neil Young :: Here We Are In The Years (atlanta, ga, 24-nov-1976)
MP3: Neil Young :: The Losing End (atlanta, ga, 24-nov-1976)
----------
www.neilyoung.com ++ www.hyperrust.org

+ Check out eMusic's 25 Free MP3 trial offer. No strings. No shit.
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+ Visit The Hype Machine for additional Neil Young MP3s.

Phil Spector :: A Christmas Gift For You

2006-12-06T00:00:00.000-08:00

Phil Spector's wall of sound meets the North Pole on this 1963 Christmas classic. At times a surreal look at the Holidays in balmy Los Angeles, A Christmas Gift for You nails it on every track. This, along with Elvis's Christmas album, is the epitome of the tasteful "rock & roll Christmas album" without sounding neither ill conceived and/or corny. Working his magic with such Spector studio staples as The Ronettes, The Crystals, and a solo Darlene Love, the album has since organically worked itself into our cultural Holiday fabric.

DOWNLOAD:
MP3: Darlene Love :: Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)
MP3: Darlene Love :: White Christmas
----------
Amazon: Phil Spector - A Christmas Gift For You

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+ Visit The Hype Machine for additional Holiday MP3s.

Holiday Radio Feature & Other Notables

2006-12-05T16:50:00.000-08:00

Ho ho ho....seasons greetings? Folks, it's about 80 degrees in Los Angeles right now. It could be June if it wasn't for the calendar on the desk.

The radio blog to the right has been updated with holiday music so get the spirit on if it moves ya. These holiday tunes will remain throughout the season. Also, below are some recent noteworthy music-related tidbits around the Internet.
----------------
* Smashing Life shares a Dylan 1975 bootleg
* Scenestars debut podcast revealed.
* Pitchfork Media's Matt LeMay interviews indie rock icons Chavez
* Largehearted Boy rounds up this years 'Best of 2006' lists
* Daytrotter presesnts William Elliott Whitmore
* MOKB features Autumn Tone's own Daniel Hutchens
* Captains Dead offers up The Hold Steady Live in Tallahassee MP3s
* DeCopenhagen shares the Top 50 Music Videos Of 2006
* The Plug Awards are open for voting
* Rbally has MP3s from Tom Waits in Minneapolis, 1975
* Tribe Called Quest fans take note at So Much Silence
* Scatterbrain unearths Rocketship's Early Bus Stop Singles

+ Artists available through eMusic's 25 Free MP3 trial offer.
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+ Visit The Hype Machine for additional MP3s.

Wagner & Rouse :: The Chester EP

2006-12-04T18:02:00.000-08:00

Until this week I hadn't listened to Kurt Wagner's collaborative EP with Josh Rouse, Chester, all the way through in a couple of years. I'm happy to report it holds up extremely well seven years after it's initial release. This five song mini-album works on multiple fronts: It benefits from Wagner's (of Lambchop) unique brand of storytelling and Rouse's faint distinctive croon, also serving as a fine introduction to Wagner's style which, while in my opinion fantastic, can throw novice listeners off at first exposure. With Wagner penning the lyrics and Rouse handling the vocal duties the the end result is both easy to digest and satisfying after repeated listens. A combination that is no small feat.

A follow up of sorts to Rouse's downbeat and excellent debut, Dressed Up Like Nebraska, the EP married these two, at the time of the recording, Nashville based Americana storytellers. Upon subsequent albums Rouse would move away from such sad-bastard leanings in favor of upbeat pop, but here we still have him in all his would-be miserable glory. It's damn good, too. While I'm told the EP is becoming harder to find through retail, it is available online via various digital distributors, including eMusic.

In 2006 Lambchop released the devastatingly beautiful album Damaged as well as a tour of the U.S. this past Fall, which was a rare treat. Josh Rouse toured behind his latest release, the Pop laden Substitulo, and continues to reside in Spain with a brief U.S. tour planned for early 2007.

Elsewhere: Fuel-Friends featured the track "65" from the Chester EP back in October, here.

DOWNLOAD:
MP3: Chester :: That's What I Know
MP3: Chester :: Table Dance
----------
Amazon: Kurt Wagner/Josh Rouse - Chester
www.lambchop.net ++ www.joshrouse.com

+ Chester available through eMusic's 25 Free MP3 offer.
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+ Visit The Hype Machine for additional MP3s.

Vince Guaraldi :: A Charlie Brown Christmas

2006-12-02T17:29:00.000-08:00

It's (somehow) December again...a quick year indeed. For the first Holiday post of many, let's begin with Vince Guaraldi's classic score for the 1965 Peanuts TV special "A Charlie Brown Christmas." Nostalgia inducing holiday instrumental jazz at it's best, this CBS soundtrack is as familiar as the cartoon itself.

Not only does this reign as my favorite Holiday album, but it is also among my very favorite albums of any genre - ever. It is about as close to perfect as an album can get. The length, material, production...everything. What's more, it's perfect for even those who don't like "holiday music."

DOWNLOAD:
MP3: Vince Guaraldi :: Skating
----------
Amazon: Vince Guaraldi - A Charlie Brown Christmas

+ Vince Guaraldi available through eMusic's 25 Free MP3 trial offer.
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+ Visit The Hype Machine for additional Holiday MP3s.

The London Howlin' Wolf Sessions :: 1970

2006-11-30T17:07:00.000-08:00

Although suffering from poor health in the spring of 1970, Howlin' Wolf agreed to travel to Europe to record with the who's who if British rock royalty; namely the Stones rhythm section (Charlie Watts and Bill Wyman), Eric Clapton and Steve Winwood. Produced by Norman Dayronthe, the sessions capture an interesting snapshot of a blues legend passing on some of his secrets to the next generation. Keep in mind that British rock, in it's beginnings, was almost entirely made up of young lads obsessed with the American art form which was virtually ignored in it's own home.

Listen to the man school the gathered players on how to get it done on the "The Red Rooster" rehearsal, and then listen to it all come together. "Wang Dang-Doodle" just smokes.

DOWNLOAD:
MP3: Howlin' Wolf :: Red Rooster (Rehearsal)
MP3: Howlin' Wolf :: The Red Rooster
MP3: Howlin' Wolf :: Wang-Dang Doodle
----------
Amazon: The London Howlin' Wolf Sessions (reissue)

+ Howlin' Wolf available through eMusic's 25 Free MP3 trial offer.
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+ Visit The Hype Machine for additional Howlin' Wolf MP3s.

Car Wheels On A Gravel Road (Reissue)

2006-11-30T07:22:00.000-08:00

1998's Grammy award winning, genre classic, Car Wheels On A Gravel Road is Lucinda Williams opus -- it's her absolute masterpiece. These meticulously crafted sad, southern stories and instrumentation ultimately took three different cities and three different producers to get right. Beginning in Austin, then moving the recordings to Nashville with Steve Earle helming the controls, and finally setting up shop in Los Angeles with producer Roy Bittan. It's the L.A. sessions that became the final album we know today.

This two disc reissue, some eight years later, gathers alternate takes of studio cuts and a second disc of live versions from the supporting tour of that year. Theses alt versions shed some light on other directions the mood and atmosphere of the album could have taken; but what would have been preferable is a second disc entirely made up of the session outtakes from the various locations and producers. Maybe the folks at Universal are saving those for a future Lucinda box set release, who knows.

Update: Bruce from Some Velvet Blog emailed me this per the reissue: "Here's a cool back story. The live concert was from a WXPN summer festival that I booked back when Lu toured on that album. What happened was the A&R guy who did the re-issue wanted to do something cool and they were going through the vaults and found a box with these tapes in them and all the box said was Lucinda-WXPN. So, they threw it on, and it was this concert. There was no label, nothing. So the A&R guy asked around about WXPN which led to a call to me. We did the multi-track recording of the show, but never actually did anything and it sat on a shelf until I said they could go for it and use it."

RIYL: Steve Earle, Emmylou Harris, Uncle Tupelo, Kathleen Edwards, Bob Dylan, Ryan Adams

DOWNLOAD:
MP3: Lucinda Williams :: Car Wheels On A Gravel Road
MP3: Lucinda Williams :: Changed The Locks (live)
MP3: Lucinda Williams :: Out of Touch (alt version)
----------
Amazon: Lucinda Williams - Car Wheels On A Gravel Road
++ www.lucindawilliams.com

+ Lucinda Williams available through eMusic's 25 Free MP3 trial offer.
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+ Visit The Hype Machine for additional Lucinda Williams MP3s.

Cat Power :: 11/25 Los Angeles - Review

2006-11-30T00:46:00.000-08:00

A decade into her career, Chan Marshall's alter-ego, Cat Power has amassed a level of mystery, speculation and gossip befitting an indie-sized Madonna. Publicly long portrayed as a shy and somewhat neurotic chanteuse, Cat Power has at times both rejected and embraced the praise and adulation of her fans and critics alike. Uncomfortable with the late-'90s "it girl" status bestowed upon her, Marshall's albums became sporadic and her performances uneven and unpredictable--until now.

With the release of 2006's "The Greatest," it seems the tide has turned for the artist, who is making her most mature and accessible work to date while garnering praise from both her existing fan base as well as mainstream media. This year also marked her return to the stage, this time flanked by the super-tight and professional Memphis Rhythm Band, which also backed her on the recording of "The Greatest."

Continue reading the review at LiveDaily HERE........

DOWNLOAD:
MP3: Cat Power :: The Greatest
Video: Cross Bones Style
----------
Amazon: Cat Power - The Greatest ++www.catpowerthegreatest.com

+ Cat Power available through eMusic's 25 Free MP3 offer.
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+ Visit The Hype Machine for additional Cat Power MP3s.