SOUND
Johnny’s Ill
The Johnny Ill Band is Detroit’s latest gift to the music world. Comprised of members from Fontana, The Piranhas, Beekeepers, and Terrible Twos, the JIB has enough wits to be the standout of the Detroit underground scene. They are currently taking their territory by the balls with their new album Ask All the Doctors.
The album is uncomplicated and rocking. The lyrics are straightforward, almost raw and the sound is tight and not overproduced. You’ll find no studio magic tricks in front of these guys. The honest sound harkens back to a time when people actually cared about live music and weren’t fooled by industry gimmicks. Standout songs include “Make it Right”, “Baja California” & “Good Posture” from where the album’s title was pulled. Take a listen to “Where Do You Live?” from the album.
With songs that reference partying too hard and drinking too much it would seem the JIB would be a motley crew to hang out with. However, when asked Johnny says they’re “not that bad” with a laugh that hints otherwise. We’ll be waiting to see if the band resembles anything like Johnny’s illustration of them (pictured) when they start touring the US later this year. In the meantime, you can pick up Ask All the Doctors at Urinal Cake Records.
How to Say Gotye
You might not know how to pronounce the name, Gotye, but by now you’ve either seen the video or heard your friends talking about how many times they’ve listened to his song “Somebody That I Used to Know” on repeat.
Pronounced “Go-tea-yay”, the Belgian-Australian singer/songwriter has already made a name for himself in Australia. Now he’s setting his sights on getting well know stateside. His third album, Making Mirrors, was originally released in August 2011 (US release, December 2011) and ended up on many Best of 2011 lists. In November 2011 Gotye took home three ARIA Awards (think Australian Grammy’s) for Single of the Year, Best Male Artist and Best Pop Release.
If you can’t get to one of his shows (see below), you will definitely want to buy the Making Mirrors album. The album is chocked full of amazing audibles strung together by Gotye’s signature voice. With sounds ranging from Motown (Eyes Wide Open) to Electric Lounge (State of the Art) this album’s got a little something for everyone. Don’t be surprised when these songs start popping up on movie soundtracks and commercials all over. Drew Barrymore loved “Learnalilgivinanlovin” from his 2nd album Drawing Blood so much it ended up on the soundtracks for her films Whip It and Going the Distance.
Having already sold out shows across the US. A new NYC date has been added for March 25th. Tickets go on sale, Friday February 3rd at noon.
If you’re lucky enough to score a ticket you can see Gotye perform live on the following dates:
February 2 Los Angeles, CA @ El Rey (SOLD OUT)
February 6 New York, NY @ Bowery Ballroom (SOLD OUT)
March 22 Washington, DC @ 9:30 Club (SOLD OUT)
March 23 Philadelphia, PA @ TLA (SOLD OUT)
March 25 New York, NY @ Terminal 5 *NEW DATE*
March 27 New York, NY @ Webster Hall (SOLD OUT)
March 29 Boston, MA @ Paradise
March 30 Montreal, QB @ Corona Theatre
March 31 Toronto, ON @ Phoenix Concert Theatre
April 3 Chicago, IL @ Park West
April 4 Minneapolis, MN @ Varsity Theatre
April 6 Denver, CO @ Bluebird Theatre
April 8 Vancouver, BC @ Vogue Theatre
April 10 Seattle @ Neptune
April 11 Portland, OR @ (venue TBA)
April 12 San Francisco, CA @ The Independent
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Making Friendz
Tami Hart (AKA Making Friendz) has played with the likes of JD Samson (MEN/Le Tigre) and Kathleen Hanna (Bikini Kill). She had 2 albums out before the age of 22. Critics pegged her “folkie”, she dived into noisepunk, started collaborating with her artist friends and Making Friendz was born. Following up the 2011 album release, Social Life, Making Friendz recently released a track remixed by Bruno from Light Asylum. Take a listen to “Something to Believe In” – Brother Bruno Remix and try to keep your body from moving. While we wait on an upcoming album announcement you can check out the Friendz live at the following shows.
February 4 – Queers Beers & Rears (QxBxRx) Five Year Anniversary and Final Party @ Glasslands
DJ Set by Luiza from CSS
21+, 9pm, $10
All ages, 6-7PM, FREE
Layered Fires
“Layered” is the best way to describe the sound of The Library is on Fire. Critics have called them power pop, art punk and lo-fi but they tend to sound more rock in concert so labeling them can get difficult. However, with fans like Lou Reed it doesn’t really matter if the Brooklyn based trio can’t be categorized easily.
Front man, Steve Five, gave us some insider info on what went into the band’s upcoming album, Works On Paper. Since the band appreciates different aspects of art, references to pioneering artists are layered throughout the album. Basquiat & Rothko get song titles while Rene Char, the author of the poem the band is named after, gets referenced in the “Hypnos” titles (Waking, Waiting & Returns). Five, says the album’s title, “Works on Paper” itself is even a layered creative reference since it’s the name of an album whose cover art is a picture of a painting.
When asked about the album’s theme Five points toward “survival”. From an artistic side there is “always that struggle to get away from that sad sack artist image; Rothko suffered with bouts of depression, Basquit didn’t even make it out of his twenties”. From the human side, Five references New York City as a great example of survival on a day to day basis.
While the band is excited to share the new album with fans live, Five is looking forward to playing “Fly Sucka on the Score” since it’s a different sound than their fans are used to. As for listening to the album, Five recommends listening to the whole thing at once with headphones on to get all of the subtle audio details that are included.
SERIALLY had a chance to check out the Works On Paper album (through headphones) and it’s an impeccable addition to any winter soundtrack. Throughout the album you get opposite tempos and moods, often side by side which makes for more of an impact on the lyrics. This is also why listening to the whole thing on the first go-round, is key. Best example of these contradicting carols is the pairing of the standout song “Fly Sucka on a Score”, which tells the tale of two people not seeing eye to eye on the idea of love through some down and out tempos. Any idea of love gets smashed by the next up faster and angrier “Burn It Down”, with it’s lyrics of broken hearted angst. Further along these 180 emotions are revisited with the harmonica happy “Spray Painted Life” being followed by the somber ”This is Why the Wind Blows”. Other stellar songs include “The Broken Guitar” and the album’s first single, “They Don’t Know You (Like I Know You)“.
Works On Paper is out Jan 31st, and you can see The Library is on Fire live February 18 at Broomies.
Alluring Alchemist
Combine the following: opera singer, pianist, poet & “flower alchemist”. Sprinkle with a dash of pop and you have the perfectly entertaining Elizaveta. She’s a real deal singer/songwriter whose look and voice were meant for the stage. Born in New York and raised in Moscow, Elizaveta returns to her roots tonight to honor the release of her first EP and the video release for her single “Dreamer”.
You can pick up her EP on iTunes, check out her video for “Dreamer” and catch her live at the following celebratory gigs.
9/27 – Dominion NY
428 Lafayette St
New York, NY 10003
10/3 – Bardot LA
w/ Hanni El Khatib
1737 North Vine Street
Hollywood, CA 90028
Penguin’s Premiere
Penguin Prison, AKA Chris Glover, has recently become the Remix King. After lending his mixology to tracks by Kylie Minogue, Goldfrapp, and Ellie Goulding he has decided to direct his powers inward and create his own album dropping October 18. A taste of what is yet to come can be found in the latest single, “Don’t Fuck With My Money“. Part electric explosion, part 80′s throwback, the sound is pure hotness and the hook will keep you coming back for another round. While people are already clamoring for a remix, you can be sure the full album will have enough sick sounds to keep your feet and ears busy for a while.
Pre-order the album at Amazon.
Derek’s Demons
Derek Nicoletto is no rookie to the music scene. He’s been the front man for such bands as Telling on Trixie and Derek and the Darling. So it makes sense that his first solo album, Kind Ghosts, doesn’t dissapoint. With soul searching lyrics and hypnotic hooks this electric pop gem is a sure bet. Stand out songs include “Not Thinking About Me” and “Hustler with a Rescue Plan”.
Mr. Nicoletto’s music might already sound familiar since his songs have been used heavily on MTV shows and ”Suddenly”, from Kind Ghosts, has been featured in KMart campaings since the Fall of 2010.
You can catch Derek next as he performs Sept 8th from 7pm-9pm for Fashion Night Out at Shop Untitled NYC: 27 West 8 Street New York NY, 212-228-5166.
You can pick up Kind Ghosts on Amazon.
galaxy a go-go
Montreal band, Young Galaxy, released the second video, “Blown Minded“, from their acclaimed Shapeshifting album. The video is art in itself and is a perfect pairing to the song. Besides a new video Young Galaxy is giving away downloads of their We Have Everything EP and Cover Your Tracks Remix EP . Be sure to catch the act as they hit the road this Fall to spread their more of their sound love.
Young Galaxy World Tour Dates:
September 11 – Minneapolis MN – First Avenue *
September 12 – Winnipeg MB – West End Cultural Centre *
September 14 – Edmonton AB – Starlite Room *
September 15 – Calgary AB – Republik *
September 17 – Vancouver BC – Commodore Ballroom *
September 18 – Victoria BC – Sugar Nightclub *
September 20 – Seattle WA – Neumos *
September 21 – Portland OR – Doug Fir Lounge *
September 23 – San Francisco CA – Mezzanine *
September 24 – Los Angeles CA – El Rey Theater *
September 25 – Tucson AZ – Plush *
October 13 – Reykavik IS – Iceland Airwaves
October 15 – Stockholm SE – Strand
October 19 – Oslo NO – Mono
October 20 – Göteborg SE – Pustervik
October 21 – Malmo SE – Debaser
October 22 – Hamburg DE – Indra Club
October 23 – Berlin DE – Comet Club
October 25 – Cologne DE – Elektroküche
October 26 – Amsterdam BE – Paradiso
October 27 – Paris FR – Flèche D’or
October 28 – Lille FR – Ground Zero Festival
October 30 – Manchester UK – The Deaf Institute
November 2 – London UK – The Lexington
Tabloid Twelves
Mark your calendars for September 5th when Kitsune’s latest Tabloid compilation will be released. This compilation will feature two mixes by SERIALLY favorite, The Twelves. Word is one mix is all influences favored by The Twelves while the other is chopped full of exclusive unheard dub remixes. Definetely worth a reminder or two.
Texas Love
Alright Texans, this one’s for you. Love Inks who recently released their album, E.S.P. , will be performing all over your great state this weekend. If you are even close to one of gigs listed below, you should make it a point to catch this amazing trio. If you need more convincing, check out the exclusive “Open Bar” session they played for FADER TV.
Fri, July 8 – Houston, TX @ Fitzgerald’s
Sat, July 9 – Austin, TX @ Emo’s
Sun, July 10 – Dallas, TX @ Prophet Bar
Concert: Parallels at Public Assembly
Saturday May 28th, 2011.
Around 8pm in an almost empty Public Assembly (Williamsburg, Brooklyn) a few individuals were lucky enough to sit through sound check for Parallels. After the standard instrument and vocal tests the crowd was treated to a few minutes of “Ultralight“. Afterwards a brief chat with Holly uncovered the band blew a tire the night before and she was thinking it was a sign to not return home just yet. As this was the last show of their tour, Cameron and Holly were ready to celebrate.
Once they took the stage after midnight, they didn’t disappoint. Holly donned a cape like top for the final show and Cameron was keeping it classic in a white tee and grey jeans. While there wasn’t much of a light show, the band did get the now packed audience moving and dancing with such tunes as “Dry Blood”, “Counterparts”, ” Shadow Hearts” and surprised everyone with a few new songs. Parallels’ Visionaries (Deluxe Edition) is out on iTunes.
freedom or death
Freedom or Death, a duo comprised of Steve Fernandez, a classically trained pianist turned DJ, and Sway Clarke, a vocalist/songwriter, will be releasing EGO, their debut album, this Fall. The two met working at a major record label and after three months of music making, they had a enough material for an album. Like their name, FoD, remain creatively independent. The two wrote, produced, recorded and performed all their own mateiral For EGO. They even created their own Liars & Thieves / Arts & Crafts Distribution to release the album. Check out their cover of Nas’s “We Rule the World” and the new video for “Crowded Room“.
Interview: Icona Pop
Icona Pop is a duo from Sweden comprising of Aino Jawo and Caroline Hjelt. They describe their sound as “pop with an edge” and have been rapidly turning out music since their chance meeting at a party Caroline was throwing. The two quickly became friends and talked about writing something together. After a few attempts they liked what was happening and started calling themselves a band. They have a conquer-it-all attitude and say yes to challenges without hesitation.
Their debut single “Manners/Top Rated” was released on Neon Gold Records, home to such acts as Penguin Prison, Marina and the Diamonds, The Knocks and Ellie Goulding. They’ve just released a new song “Luvsick” with Logo, which is out on the Kitsuné Maison Compilation 11: The IndieDance Issue. Their first EP will be out later this Fall with a full album coming out in Winter.
When it comes to style, Aino and Caroline use clothing as another extension of expression. Whether up or down they say clothing can often help intensify feelings. As for favorite designers they are rallying behind such Swedish brands as 5th Ave Repair Shop and ACNE help them onstage and off.
If they weren’t involved in music, Caroline would want to be a Doctor and Aino an Astronaut. Here’s hoping they won’t need to change careers just yet.
dining drivers
Fresh from France, Gentlemen Drivers, bakes up a twisted video for their song “Valdor”. The song features chanteuse Lisa Li-Lund on vocals and the video features well…just check it out. Gentlemen Driver’s EP, Asphalt, is out now and they’re currently working on a full length studio album expected to drop this Fall.
demons ep
Fenech-Soler’s Demons EP is a packed full of infectious lyrics and beats that will haunt your body. The title song comes in two offerings with the “white version” toning the body moving beats down to let the lyrics pull at your heart strings. Included in this must have EP is the 2010 chart topping single “Lies” and new treat “Stone Bridge”. Get a hold of these Demons now.
Recently lead vocalist, Ben Duffy, was diagnosed with testicular cancer and the band had to put their upcoming UK tour on hold. Looks like things are on the mend as the band just announced dates for their rescheduled UK tour. To help out others, all proceeds from the band’s new single ‘Stop and Stare’ will go to Teenage Cancer Trust.
interview: Holly Dodson of Parallels
Parallels, the synth-pop act of Toronto, is made up of Holly Dodson and Cameron Findlay (formerly of Crystal Castles). Holly was amazing enough to share a chat and fill us in on the Parallel experience.
Holly and “Cam” have known each other since grade school. They became better friends in high school and while each was into music separately, they never thought of forming a band. Years later while Cameron was on the road they started writing lyrics together through e-mails and soon had their first song “Ultralight“. They continue to collaborate by writing separately and then bringing their ideas together. Holly has a wide variety of musical influneces but lists Kate Bush, Fleetwood Mac, David Bowie and Depeche Mode as her top picks.
Moments before a performance begins Holly gets “more excited than nervous”. There’s a lot of excitment to look forward to on this tour as Holly will get to perform the band’s latest single “Salome” and ”The Raven”, from the deluxe version of Visionaries. Parallels will also be visiting Holly’s favorite venue, The Vagabond in Miami, which she describes as “beautiful and unpretensious”. During the tour Holly and Cameron will be working on new songs for their next album.
Onstage Holly has a little style help from the jewelry line, Dolorous, in the form of some shoulder pieces and a necklace attached to a ring. For everyday style Holly favors vintage finds and loves the Montreal label Complex Geometries. You can catch the sound and fashion stylings of Parallels on their Visionaries tour at the following:
Friday April 8 – Cleveland, OH @ Happy Dog
Saturday, April 9 – Toledo, OH @ Mickey Finn’s
Thursday, April 14 – Minneapolis, MN @ Fine Line Much Cafe
Saturday, April 16 – Minneapolis, MN @ First Avenue : DJ Set w/ Soviet Panda
Monday, April 18 – Kansas City, MO @ Record Bar
Friday, April 22 – Denver, CO @ Moe’s
Thursday, April 28 – Phoeniz, AZ @ Bar Smith
Friday, April 29 – Tucson, AZ @ Club Congress
Saturday, April 30 – El Paso, TX @ Neon Desert Music Festival
Thursday, May 5 – Dallas, TX @ TBA
Thursday, May 12 – Atlanta, GA @ Drunken Unicorn
Friday, May 13 – Tallahassee, FL @ Engine Room
Sunday, May 15 – Tampa, FL @ Crowbar
Thursday, May 19 – West Palm Beach, FL @ Respectable Street
Saturday, May 21 – Miami, FL @ Vagabond
Saturday, May 28 – Brooklyn, NY @ Public Assembly
heart stain
Love Inks, a three piecer out of Austin is gearing up to release their first album, E.S.P. Recorded with just an electric guitar, a bass guitar and drum machine, the classic sounds let the spotlight shine on Sherry Leblanc ‘s haunting vocals. The songs to check out are “Black Eye“, “Skeleton” and an amazing cover of “Rock On”. E.S.P. is set to be released in May 2011.
If you’re lucky enough to be at SXSW, you can catch a live listen to Love Inks at the following gigs…
Sat, March 19, 8pm – True Panther Sounds Party @ Shangri-La
Sat March 19, 12am – Hell, Yes! / Art Fag / Impose Magazine Showcase @ Long Branch
scandinavian slayers
They hail from Norway, they play “horror pop”, and their name is Tôg. They’ve already killed it in their homeland and now they are attacking the US with their creepy sounds. Study up on your attackers by checking out their smash single “Sansen” and the special acoustic video version. You can catch the bloody goodness at the following US shows:
SXSW:
Tues March 15th @ Scoot Inn Inside Stage (7pm) Austin, TX
Wed March 16th @ Cherrywood Outdoor Stage (8pm) Austin, TX
Thurs March 17th @ Cherrywood Pancake Breakfast (4pm) Austin, TX
Thurs March 17 – Panache Booking SXSW Showcase @ Red 7 Outside Stage (9:10pm) Austin, TX
Sunday March 20th – Panache Hangover Party @ Beerland (6pm) Austin, TX
NORTHEAST:
Wed March 23 – WIERD Party @ Home Sweet Home – New York, NY
Thurs March 24 – Comet Ping Pong – Washington, DC
Fri March 25 - @ Cake Shop – New York, NY
Sat March 26 - @ Death By Audio – Brooklyn, NY
sparro’s sky
Sam Sparro’s dropping gifts from the sky. His new EP Pink Cloud is available to download for free. Looking for lyrics on the song “Pink Cloud”? Don’t. Sparro’s saying this is more of an art project than a single, so be sure to check out the eye candy filled video.
love kickstart
British rapper, Example’s, second album Won’t Go Quietly includes many a tasty sound bits. Standout songs are “Won’t Go Quietly”, “Last Ones Standing” and “Something in the Water”. Top ranking goes to “Kickstarts” with it’s I-love-you-I-wanna-dump-you lyrics. Check out the dilemmia of a video here.
winter mixerland
Human Life released their “Winter 2011 Mix” which will help warm you up during those oh so cold days. The one hour plus jam features Au Revoir Simone, Cassius, Zombie Nation and nineteen other artists. So strike up a fire, pass the eggnog and get your body moving.
li some
The US won’t be treated to Lykke Li’s new album, Wounded Rhymes, until March 2011 but we are getting a little snippet of what to expect with the new single “Get Some“. Lyrics like “I’m your prostitute, you gon’ get some” suggest the sweet and entrancing Li is getting in touch with her sexual side. The video shows she’s still as entrancing as ever, no matter what she’s exploring.
wherever human
Our ”Italo Crimewave“ friends, Human Life, recently released their single EP “Wherever We Are” and a video to accompany it. If your digging what their dishing out you can purchase the EP here.
love cure
Robert Smith croons “It’s cold outside. When you comin’ home?” while Crystal Castles synths out our senses. This melodic marriage had us checking our pulse to make sure we hadn’t died and gone to heaven. Mr. Smith might not be in love but ears everywhere are with this new remix of “Not in Love“.