This Day In Rock: 8-30-64

ON THIS DAY IN ROCK: In 1964, Bob Dylan introduced The Beatles to one of world's finest herbal delicacies: marijuana. An odd pairing to begin with, and I'm sure the pot only made it more awkward. What happened next, well, The Beatles got really experimental in their records and Dylan kept on being Dylan. Below is a video that fellow KUR DJ Andy Palamara showed me earlier this year which is pretty much what most people believe to have happened on this day in rock:

The Meth Minute #39: Bob Meets The Beatles

The Beatles - "I Am The Walrus"
Bob Dylan - "Rainy Day Women #12 & 35"

The Beatles: Rock Band is out September 9th on all platforms of video games. And weed is out on the corner of any busy street.

Noel Gallagher Says "C-Ya" To Oasis

"It's with some sadness and great relief to tell you that I quit Oasis tonight. People will write and say what they like, but I simply could not go on working with Liam a day longer."

There you have it, Noel Gallagher leaves Oasis, again, because he's fighting with his brother, again. Good grief. Sounds like a pretty big beef between the two. Granted the band hasn't sounded the same since their mid-90's reign as Britpop supremes, it still sucks to hear about a breakup like this. Well, I guess we'll just see how long this separation really lasts.

"Apologies to all the people who bought tickets for the shows in Paris, Konstanz, and Milan."

Maybe it's just all apart of the Masterplan....

New Music Video: Big D & The Kids Table - "Fluent In Stroll"

Here's a brief history point: punk rock has gone through so many revolutions over the years, it's hard to keep up with all it's branches. I mean, there's the whole post-punk, alternative, and indie thing that we mostly cover here. And then there's the disastrous emo, screamo, modern day hardcore side that is definitely not our thing. But here's another set of sub-genres to punk that have always taken a backseat: ska, dub, and punk-reggae. There's a lot of talk about 1st wave, 2nd wave, and 3rd wave ska music and how each wave has paved the way for the next; starting in the early 60's with artists like Byron Lee & The Dragonaires and Bob Marley, moving to the late 70's and early 80's with The Specials and Fishbone, then thrusting into the 90's with The Planet Smashers and Reel Big Fish. And if I missed out on your favorite ska artist or band, my apologies; there are a lot of great ones.

Now we find ourselves in the later 00's. And to be honest, there aren't too many poignant ska bands left. However, hailing from Boston, Massachuetts is Big D & The Kids Table, restoring ska's legacy and proving that a blend of punk and ska can sell out shows and certainly make the kids dance again. Their latest record Fluent In Stroll is already one of my favorite albums of the year. They've taken on the subject of love and relationships in this one; different from previous directions but not too far off. The music is still at its best and Big Dave McWane's vocals are sharp and crisp. In years part, their music videos would consist of the band walking in a one shot video, pounding beers through streets and playing their single. Others included house parties or awkward girlfriend-meets-parents dinner situations. The newest, for the title track, is simple, but indeed different. It's simply the band, playing their music, allowing you to hear the music, and not just see it. Take a look:

Big D & The Kids Table - "Fluent In Stroll"

Any dub, punk, reggae, ska, or stroll fan, or anyone looking for something different, pick up Fluent In Stroll, out now via SideOneDummy records.

CONFIRMED: New Website Coming Soon!

I don't think there's a necessary post to go along with this. The title, itself, is good enough. Only there's one thing: we're not sure of the exact address yet. But don't fret, we'll get it all under way before the first show. Keep it here for more updates!

Death Cab Confirms Track For "New Moon"

I'll level with you: I'm not a big reader. I don't like literature or poetry. Throw in self-help books, computer manuals, or gravestones. The one exception: blogs. Because they are flashy and have pictures, unlike boring novels. Speaking of novels, have you read this Twilight stuff? I sure haven't. But if it's about teenagers and vampires, then I know for sure it's garbage. Anyway, they made a movie out of the first book in the series, and with the second movie on it's way, Seattle's Death Cab For Cutie have confirmed that they will be releasing a single for the new flick (New Moon). So you can now put them up there with Radiohead and Bon Iver as contributors to the OST. Death Cab's song is called "Meet Me On The Equinox" and not me, nor anyone else, knows what it will sound like. I, for one, enjoy the darker side of Death Cab, so I think I'll accept this one with open arms. One can only hope. Here's a classic moody number:

Death Cab For Cutie - "I'll Follow You Into The Dark"

I'll Follow You Into The Dark

They will premiere the it on MTV.com during the Video Music Awards, September 13th. I guess we'll get our answers then.

Concert: Weezer & Blink 182 (8-26-09)

Last night, Taking Back Sunday, Weezer, and Blink 182 (I'll leave out Chester French) graced the stage at the PNC Bank Arts Center in Holmdel, NJ. A trip to the south for us northern Jersey boys, but not too far out of our way (though a new concert venue for myself). We planned the trip down to the minute, this being our final summer show. We got our lunch at Jersey Mike's Subs (at an employee discount) and hit the parkway at 2:30 PM. However, once we reached the Arts Center, we were told that the lots weren't open yet and we were pointed to parkway north. Lame. After a quick 22 oz. Bud Light at a local Chili's, we hit the streets again, passing through fields and farms, to once again arrive at the show. We were directed to the reject, additional lots (how appropriate). We had a few cold Busch originals, did the door trick (peeing with two car doors open to block the view of any passersby), made new friends, made new enemies, and walked through a pathway in the woods to reach the venue. Bring on a great night of music.

We arrived in the center around 7:30, only getting to hear three Taking Back Sunday songs: "A Decade Under The Influence", something new, and "MakeDamnSure". I was pleased with the Jersey natives from what I heard. My buddy, Colin said, "all the singer [Adam Lazzara] does now is swing his microphone". Ha. True, though. They have gone down in our minds after Louder Now proved they had changed, but we heard some good ones, so as far as I'm concerned, their live performance is still decent in my mind.

Taking Back Sunday - "Liar (It Takes One To Know One)"

Next up: WEEZER! All hail the crown princes of nerd rock. So many hits were played, it really was an all around great set. I was especially pleased with "The Good Life"; that's a nice one. They all came decked out in their matching grey track suits to the Fox Searchlight theme song. The crowd connected instantly. On a bill like this, either Weezer or Blink could've headlined, but we were treated to Weezer first. Other high notes: "Buddy Holly", "My Name Is Jonas", "Perfect Situation", "Undone (The Sweater Song)", and the opener "Hashpipe". However, I was letdown because of the lack of "El Scorcho", "We Are All On Drugs", and the fact that Rivers Cuomo played "Island In The Sun" by himself. Cheese. Perhaps the greatest moment of their performance was their finale, a cover of The Clash's "Should I Stay Or Should I Go?". They've been doing covers like this for a while now (Nirvana's "Breed" got a great reaction in concerts past). I got my clocks cleaned in the pit during that one. Almost fell down the hill, too. Ouch. This being my first Weezer experience (well, Blink and TBS, too), I was impressed and in fact, I'll go on to say I loved it. Well done, Weezer.

Weezer - "Beverly Hills"

Finally, the epic return of the band that captivated most of our adolescent and teenager years: BLINK 182! Mark, Tom, and Travis! The boys were back, in our home state, playing the songs that made us love them so long ago. They opened with "Dumpweed", followed by "Feeling This". Explosive. Light up that weed, audience. Jesus Christ, there was so much dust and smoke I could barely see the stage. In between songs, the band would joke around, making fun of the crowd and each other, like they always did. It feels weird after all that happened with the breakup and the awful bands in between, but they seem to have not missed a step and can still play and make us laugh at the same time. During a few songs in the set, Blink totally slowed down the pace, with "I Miss You", "Stay Together For The Kids", and "Down". But fear not, they did pick it up, with my personal favorite "Always", "Stockholm Syndrome", and "First Date". A lot from the self-titled album, which is indeed my overall favorite. Best tune of the night came via "Not Now"; it really was intense and brought back some great feelings. After yelling at kids for texting during the show (just like Arctic Monkeys at APW, the kids were BAD. Annoying, out-of-place, young, on their phones, etc. How old were they when Blink came onto the scene anyway? We're they embryos? And why would they try to start a circle pit for "Adam's Song?" Kill me. Okay, I'm done), the band played closer "Anthem (Part 2)". They eventually came out to a loud roar from the crowd: "ONE. MORE. SONG!". Travis dominated a sick drum solo to hip-hop beats while he and his drumset ascended from the stage and cricled around it. It was sick. The video's below. Then the rest of the band came on, finishing the night with the classic oldie "Carousel" and ending with "Dammit". A massive stampede ran through the lawn during "Dammit" so ferociously, I thought my friends had been killed. Luckily, no one died and the show ended in epic form. Loud, raw, and true. Blink is back. Thank the good lord in Heaven.

Travis Barker's Sick Drum Solo

Blink 182 - "Always"

After the show, we found the nearest White Castle, where we inhaled burgers and licked our dirt-covered wounds clean. The night was over, and for the most part, the summer, as well. It's all over. But what a way to go out. To all those who went, or have seen Blink/Weezer before, you know how awesome it was. Just awesome.

What's next for the Blink boys? I don't know, nor do I care. I can proudly say that I saw them, redeemed, vindicated, and playing their greatest hits. One night only. In my homeland. And it kicked ass. God Bless.

For more pictures (like the one's I stole), check them out here, thanks to Jersey Shore/MetroMix.
And for more videos, just find them on YouTube like everyone else does.

Blink 182's setlist.

August 25, 2009: New Music/Videos

Today is August 25, 2009. And there are some new releases, along with new music. All of which you should take into consideration. They will be listed - now.

Arctic Monkeys released their latest record (third LP): Humbug. After 2007's Favourite Worst Nightmare, you can expect great things from what many legit music journalists claimed to be "The Next Big Thing". As noted in our many recent posts about the Monkeys, this record is expected to reveal a bit of a darker side of the band. I'm sure it's going to be rad. Out now, via Domino.

Imogen Heap released her latest record (third LP): Ellipse. Again, she did this one all by herself: sang it, played it, produced it, and pretty much advertised it during her eBay stunt, in which someone tried to sell a bootleg too early and she got the world to raise the bid to 3 million dollars. Nicely done. Out now, via Megaphonic.

New music from Pearl Jam: "Supersonic". (An Oasis cover? Gnarly!). No. But it is off their upcoming record Backspacer. I think it's pretty fundamental rock 'n' roll for the most part. Real spiky guitar riffs at some points, then straight up blues-root's rockin' at others. 2:37 in length. Check it out on YouTube below:

Pearl Jam - "Supersonic"

New video from R.E.M: "Living Well Is The Best Revenge (Live)". A great quote with a great song to back it up. The hall of famers are set to release Live At The Olympia, a double-disc compilation that captures a whopping 39 songs from the band's five-night Dublin stand back in late June and early July 2007 (which led to the making of their latest record, Accelerate; and "Living Well" is the lead track). Many critics like to throw around that R.E.M. has returned to form. I just like to say, "Let's forget about the early 00's and live in the present". Here's the video:

R.E.M. - "Living Well Is The Best Revenge (Live)"
Living Well Is The Best Revenge

I think it's safe to say what my paycheck it going towards. And that's new music. Enjoy.

New Music Video: Pearl Jam - "The Fixer"

If you've been reading this blog this summer, or any other music blog on the world wide web, then I'm sure you've heard the news that alternative rock powerhouse Pearl Jam is preparing the release of their latest album Backspacer, due out in late September. Well low and behold, the first single off Backspacer now has a video to go with it: "The Fixer". The video itself a glorified concert scenario, but its straight to the point: it's the rock 'n' roll experience. Live. In your face. A bit shaky. Surrounded by fans who love the music as much as you do. Check it out:

Pearl Jam - "The Fixer"

I'm looking forward to the release. Are you? Backspacer is out September 20th, via Universal.

Pitchfork Concludes Decade Countdown

So Pitchfork finally filled us in on their picks for the 500 Greatest Songs of the 00's (isn't the decade still going on?). The countdown is complete and I have to say, people who commented on other blogs were pretty accurate. Their guesses were right. Here's the page with all the info your dying to find out about. And to save time, I'll just post the Top 20. Deal?

20. The Walkman - "The Rat" (2004)
19. R. Kelly - "Ignition (Remix)"
 (2002)
18. Hercules And Love Affair - "Blind" (2008)
17. Annie -"Heartbeat" (2004)
16. The Rapture - "House Of Jealous Lovers" (2002)
15. The Knife - "Heartbeats" (2002)
14. Jay-Z - "99 Problems" (2003)
13. LCD Soundsystem - "Losing My Edge" (2002)
12. OutKast - "Hey Ya!" (2003)
11. Gnarls Barkley - "Crazy" (2005)
10. Arcade Fire - "Neighborhood #1 (Tunnels)" (2004)
9. Animal Collective - "My Girls" (2009)
8. Radiohead - "Idioteque" (2000)
7. Missy Elliott - "Get Ur Freak On" (2001)
6. Yeah Yeah Yeahs - "Maps" (2003)
5. Daft Punk - "One More Time" (2000)
4. Beyoncé (Feat. Jay-Z) - "Crazy in Love" (2003)
3. M.I.A. (Feat. Bun B and Rich Boy) - "Paper Planes (Diplo Remix)" (2007)
2. LCD Soundsystem - "All My Friends" (2007)
1. OutKast - "B.O.B." (2000)

I see a lot of hip/hop, R&B, and electronic music here. That has to be expected. They were very much apart of the decade. And whoa, a remix? I don't think I've ever heard the original "Ignition". Good to see Gnarls Barkley, Arcade Fire, Radiohead, Yeah Yeah Yeahs, and Daft Punk ranking high. But OutKast gets number one? I think Daft Punk deserved it over them.

What are your thoughts? Did Pitchfork do justice to this awkward decade? In my opinion - yes. But hey, we still have a few months to go in the decade. Anything can happen.

KUR: Shaping Up For A New Year

I think (but not sure) that some of the viewers of this blog forget the focal point of what we're doing. To reiterate, we are a college radio show. A damn good one. We play what we believe is the best of yesterday's and today's alternative and indie rock, and it's the best you'll hear on college radio... we hope. We are Mike Pop & Big Jim Adair - we are Never Mind the Mainstream - only on Kutztown University Radio, 88.3 FM.

Also, we feel like big shots this year. It feels nice to climb the ladder. Jim's the VP and Production Manager for the station and I'm the President and Promotions Director. And of course, we are DJ's at our core. So we've got some responsibility, but our true passion is in the art of radio. We strive to provide a great show with factual information, goofy skits, fan interaction, and above all, the best sounds in the world via underground music.

And so now here we are, again. A new semester slowly approaching with general meetings beginning August 31st. I know it's said every year, but truly, the summer did fly bye. But for me, college radio is placed above academics and many other things that take place at Kutztown University, so this is a great thing. Our whole crew is getting pumped for what's to come. And you should, too!

I recently e-mailed our General Manager, Mike Regensberger, and spoke with him about the possibility of a new rock 'n' roll morning show, among other topics. He had this to say about the summer:

"We had an AMAZING summer. New relationship with MusikFest, Berks Jazz Fest, Audio Now, Radiolicious, this 24-hour broadcast we’re preparing for etc. etc. etc. I just want the morning show to be followed through with if that’s going to be our next big initiative. In the long term if/when we get licensed, we’re looking into carrying “Morning Edition” from NPR as our morning show, then we’d always have a guaranteed morning show. Cya soon! I’m excited for the new semester."

Things are looking up for a tiny, fighting little PA college radio station. Keep it here for more information on the upcoming year. And as always, thanks for the support!

Paul McCartney - "Getting Better"

Guilty Pleasures Of Summer '09

Hi all. We all have dreams, I know I do. And one of those dreams is to live in a world in which the people would not have to hide from their guilty pleasures. But I also wouldn't want those pleasures to be exploited and practiced and praised to an unhealthy level. So maybe I'm looking for an even compromise that wouldn't help or hurt our guilty pleasures. That being said, this summer, while putting in mass shifts at Jersey Mike's Subs, I was subjected to hours upon hours of XM radio's pop/hits station. Some of the songs played grew on me, like a virus. It started out as a joke, until the songs became like a malignant cancer and consumed my soul (iTunes Top Played, to be exact). One even broke into the Top 10! Blasphemy! To get over this issue, perhaps expressing these tunes in a blog post will help me cope, if nothing at all. Allow me (and Jim will contribute soon), to present my Guilty Pleasure Songs of the Summer of Sin (2009).

3. Cash Cash - "Party In Your Bedroom"
I am a sucker for cheap electronic sound effects. Like the real generic upshots that no-name producers can belt out with the most primitive of downloadable audio applications. Cash Cash's "Party In Your Bedroom" is pretty much just that. It's cheap. But man, what a fun song. I really do enjoy it and I don't care if I start receiving scenester, O'Douhl's non-alcoholic beer party invitations for making that claim. "Party" is stimulating MySpace pop music that incorporates broken microphones and a steady clap machine. And it goes against anything I should ever stand for. However, It will make me hop around my room like a 12-year-old girl before getting ready for a day's work.

Cash Cash - "Party In Your Bedroom"

2. Cobra Starship (Feat. Leighton Meester) - "Good Girls Go Bad"
Another song that I hear at least 5 times a day at work. (See, if only the station selected by my boss had been death metal...). They're back. I think this is the highest charting single since "Snakes On A Plane (Bring It)". Ha. I really don't have a problem with liking this one. Guy perspective, girl perspective - all about making bad descions then writing a song about it. A fun chorus for douchebags to chant along to, and if that is so true, then I am among them. A co-worker told me she thought lead singer, Gabe Saporta, sounded like a sheep; so I responded, "Come on, it's not that BAAAAAH'd." I got a kick out of that knee-slapper. No one else did. The song has a cliche Gewn Stefani "Hollaback Girl" type clap-breakdown in the midst of the 3:18 jam, and ends high on the chorus. This song doesn't make me go wild, but I do like to tell everyone at work that "this song defines our generation" just for shits and giggles...and awkward stares.

Cobra Starship (Feat. Leighton Meester) - "Good Girls Go Bad"

1. Katy Perry - "Waking Up In Vegas"
Have I fallen victim as another indie rock blogger to adore Miss Perry and stalk her every step on the web? Not quite. But she is pretty cool and a down-to-Earth chick. She's a better Pink, I will say that. And what she lacks in live performances, is redeemed by her on-record sound. She can thank her producers for that. What could possibly be her final single off debut LP One Of The Boys, this song displays some really appealing guitar work. That's what I'm so drawn to. Lyric-wise, I don't really connect with (maybe because I rarely leave the East Coast?). I like the idea though; it fits the Katy Perry persona very well. And I believe she's credible for the most part; I mean, she does play the guitar every now and again, right? This truly is one of my favorite songs of the summer and hell yes, it is a guilty, guilty, and a million times guilty, pleasure.

Katy Perry - "Waking Up In Vegas"

Embarrassed for me? I wouldn't be. I've liked stranger tunes (Jim can attest for one of my favorite songs of all time: "Girls On Film" by Duran Duran). Speaking of which, your move, Jim. Let's see what you got. And hey, you guys, too! Let's make this a family affair. Comment and tell us your guilty pleasures. Because once we admit we have a problem, we're halfway to solving it.

Jim's Top Summer Guilty Pleasures

This is semi-difficult for me, since I swore off commercial radio a few years ago, I am not even aware of the existence of most Top 40 songs, although I hate that Cobra Starship song, thanks Mike. Nevertheless, I will try my best to put together 3 Guilty Pleasures that have ruled my summer, and I think I got 'em.

3. The Fray - "You Found Me"

Ever since I first heard this song in a promo for season 5 of Lost it's been in my head. It's catchy, the lyrics aren't horrible, and it has a good hook. Do I hate The Fray? Yes. Am I a sucker for everything involving Lost? Of course.

The Fray - "You Found Me"

2. Tastykake's Peanut Butter Kandy Kakes

Am I guilty about loving them? Not at all. But I went through about ten boxes of these myself in 2 months and that cannot be good.

1. MTV's "Is She Really Going Out With Him?"

I confess. MTV's attempt at exposing douchebags (isn't that their entire demographic) has me hooked big time. Hot Girls? Check. Douches? Check. People who FINALLY agree with you that these dudes are dicks? Check. Sassy British Voiceover Dude? Check. Man, you don't know what you're missing.

COME ON! (Pitchfork's 500 Tracks of the 2000's)

Who doesn't love lists? I sure do. VH1 pretty much bases 50% of their lineup on lists (the other 50% is dedicated to STDs). But even I have to ask if Pitchfork's Best 500 Tracks of the Decade is too soon. Whenever I put together a best of the year list, I try to wait until January to start it. Songs from November and December deserve just as much weight, but need time to settle.

Granted, we are mostly through the decade, but we're less than 2/3 of the way through 2009. So the potential number one song of 2009 may not even make the best of the decade. Nevertheless, this is purely for entertainment on P4k's part (don't tell me it's for journalistic value). They are unrolling a whole best of the decade slew of lists and articles, capping it off with the Top 200 Albums of the 2000-2009 era. That list however comes later. Right now they are jumping into the Top 500 Tracks of the 2000's. So far they've unveiled numbers 500-101, although they are pretty much consolation prizes. The real meat is in the Top 100, and knowing Pitchfork as any common reader does, I have what I think will be there Top 3 in my head. I'll wait until they get to the Top 100 to let that be known, but right now the list has been pretty solid. The only thing I noticed is two songs I thought would be easily Top 100, if not Top 50 are in 500-201:

#388: Sigur Ros - "Hopipolla"

This may be a bit biased since this is one of my favorite songs of all time (and I say this as Sugar Ray comes on my iTunes shuffle...shame). But let's be honest here. This is one of the most amazing and epic and beautiful songs of all time. I have it set as my alarm clock so I can wake up everyday knowing there is beauty in the world. To quote one of my favorite TV characters of all time: "COME ON".

#142 The Flaming Lips - "Do You Realize??"

For this song, I'm shocked not only because it's a great song, but also because, knowing P4k, I expected this to be Top 50 easy. This threw my whole guesses for the list out of whack. And I know there will be more of Wayne Coyne and Co. on this list, but COME ON.

And as a side note:

Kudos Pitchfork, for including what I consider one of the most underrated Elliott Smith songs at #236, "A Distorted Reality Is Now A Necessity To Be Free (7" Version)". Although I prefer the album version, there is hope for this list yet.

This Day In Rock: 8-16-74

I know, I know, I know - it's the 17th. But I meant to write this last night. Do I get points for being honest?

ON THIS DAY IN ROCK: In 1974, The Ramones played their first gig at New York City's infamous CBGB's club. What would come in the years that followed, would be anarchy in both the USA and most definitely in the UK, thanks to the breakthrough of punk rock 'n' roll.

The Ramones - "Now I Wanna Sniff Some Glue", "I Don't Wanna Go Down To The Basement", and "Judy Is A Punk"


Long live the kings.

No "Wall Of Ice"

So today came and there was no "Wall Of Ice" EP released by Radiohead. Just the official (free) release of the single for "These Are My Twisted Words". A complete rundown of the timeline and story are here, at one of my favorite blogs, The Rawking Refuses To Stop.

Recent Stuff Wrap-Up

How have all you been? Good? That's good. How about that Radiohead? Pretty wild, eh?

It's been a busy week for me, personally. I officially feel like a grown-up workin' man after knocking out a 40+ hour work week. That sucked. But now it's over, and I'll have a nice paycheck in time for school (leaving for Kutztown on August 30th), and I can finally catch up on sleep/the world of rock 'n' roll. Let me see what I can muster up for a respectable post:

First, Woodstock was 40 years ago this weekend. I can't think of anything more anti-mainstream than the late 60's counterculture/hippie movement and the greatest concert of all time (I like to think Tim & Eric live in Philadelphia this past February was a close second). Have you seen the trailer for Taking Woodstock starring Demetri Martin, Emile Hirsch, and Eugene Levy? It looks really cool. And it's getting some nice reviews. Here you go:

My dad has a close friend who actually made it up to Bethel, New York back in '69 for the "3 Days of Peace & Music". He said it was incredible, and from all the footage and documents I've seen and read, I believe him. And my envy for those born in past generations that experienced great events like these, continues to soar to higher levels of jealousy. Dang.

Joe Cocker - "A Little Help From My Friends"

Next. Did you hear about Bob Dylan in my homeland, peeking into houses and spooking the natives? I'll go to CNN for this one. "Like a complete unknown". The man can do no wrong, despite his wacky antics. Check out this dude's quote at the end: "Dylan was really cool about the whole incident," Ahart said. He said he asked the singer why he had been walking in the rain and was told, "I just felt like going for a walk." Weird NJ.

Moving on. Be on the look out for new music coming out soon. The latest from Destroyer and Jay Reatard (August 18th); Arctic Monkeys and Imogen Heap (August 25th); and Whitney Houston (September 1st). Guess which one I'm really excited about. And though it hasn't been proven yet, Radiohead might slip us a surprise EP or a single tomorrow. Read Jim's post to get filled in. What an exciting time for good music.

In live music news, (I should've covered this while it was happening), KUR recently broadcasted live from Musik Fest in Bethlehem, PA. The whole thing lasted from July 31st til August 9th. Our manager did a lot of the work himself, covering the artists and the festival as whole. That's a bit of a distance for me, but I heard it was great. A lot great bands: The Wallflowers, Yes, Third Eye Blind, The B-52's, and a ton of local acts.

Yes - "I've Seen All Good People"

That's all for me. But like I said, the summer really is flying by. I can't believe it. I'm getting so old...

Newer Radiohead???

So here's the deal. A song kind of popped up online that may or may not be Radiohead's. It's called "These Are My Twisted Words". And it sounds a lot like Radiohead. It was found online with a little hidden message in it's ASCII code as well (nerds, unite). Within that code it says "Wall Of Ice" is a new Radiohead EP/LP/Single to be released August 17th, that's this Monday, folks. At this point however, it is all conjecture. But if you remember back when In Rainbows came out, you could go to inrainbows.com to order the CD. Well, go ahead to wallofice.com and where do you end up? The official Radiohead store. Coincidence? We won't know until Monday, but for right now, here's "These Are My Twisted Words" for you to enjoy/theorize about.

Radiohead - "These Are My Twisted Words"

New Song: Brand New - "At The Bottom"

On the first single from Brand New's upcoming fourth album, Daisy, Brand New brought the rock and the catchiness, as they do so well. "At The Bottom" sounds like it could've made 2006's The Devil And God Are Raging Inside Me more than any other album, although they are known for taking very different directions on pretty much every album. As frontman Jesse Lacey told KERRANG!, "It's a pretty exhausting record. It's quite dense and I think some of the decisions we made don't always go in the most obvious direction. We were thinking a lot more about what we'd want to play when we were up onstage rather than actually what you'd want to hear on a record."

Daisy is available on Interscope Records on September 22nd.

Tracklist:

1. Vices
2. Bed
3. At The Bottom
4. Gasoline
5. You Stole
6. Be Gone
7. Sink
8. Bought A Bride
9. Daisy
10. In A Jar
11. Noro

Brand New - "At The Bottom"

Allow Me To Eat My Own Words: #1

As a semi-experienced blogger of one year and over 200 posts to date, I feel it's necessary to go back and fix some mistakes I may have stated in the past. However, that's a lot of backtracking and research and it's still my summer, so I don't think I'm going to go in too deep. But, recently I made a claim in a post regarding the band Green Day and their 2009 VMA nomination for Best Rock Video. It went a little something like this (more like, exactly like this, because it is a direct copy-and-paste):

"Truth is, MTV loves Green Day too much. My guess is those whiny Anti-Americans steal this one and further push teenagers into cliche anarchy in the "punk rock" genre of the late 00's."

And now: allow me to eat my own words.

After some soul-searching and contemplating, I'm beginning to realize that Green Day is toning down their rebellious, stand-up-to-your government, kids! attitude. That was the whole purpose of American Idiot. Their latest, 21st Century Breakdown, make just be about the rock 'n' roll again. Certainly no Dookie, but I haven't been turned off by the singles yet. Especially "21 Guns".

Green Day - "21 Guns"

So why am I eating my own words? Because every now and again you have to take a step back and not talk out of your ass, saying whatever's pleasing to yourself. You have to realize that music is not just an art, but a career - for some. And for Green Day, whichever direction is next, they still mean something important to a lot of people and their music isn't as eye-gouging-ly awful as people like me make it out to be sometimes.

This will also tie into our "Guilty Pleasures Of The Summer" post that will be up soon.

News For Radio Heads (...Radiohead)

The year is 2009. Worldwide panic is not at a Cold War level yet, but things are getting a little crazy. Old people complaining about health care, soldiers dying overseas in what many people believe to be a senseless war, and the world almost destroyed due to swine flu, which was really just a bad cold that people blew out of proportion. But what else? This: an innovative rock band from England, known as Radiohead, continues to cause a stir in the music business. Because they are such legends and have such a mass following, that they have the power to trick and tease and plug and unplug new music.

Those cheeky bastards.

Of course, Radiohead is one of the most dominant bands in the world, even after their early 90's debut, and they continue to amaze and astonish audiences around the world. It seems as though they'll never hit a "prime era", because they've been great since their beginnings. And now, after seven records, many world tours, and being hailed as the future movers and shakers of the world, the band has released two songs that signal debate: a new record? just singles? merely songs? TRIBUTES? RADIOHEAD, PLEASE TELL US YOUR INTENTIONS!

"Harry Patch (In Memory Of)" came out last week. No big buzz beforehand, just a song released on Stereogum with millions of comments and Internet quarrels that follow the post. It's a slower tune about the last surviving WWI veteran, Harry Patch. He died recently, you know. What a war. And I'm not just saying that just because it was a "war". I've done my research. When I can't sleep at night I watch "The Great War In Colour" on YouTube. History buff, right here. Anyway, here you go:

Radiohead - "Harry Patch (In Memory Of)"

The next: "These Are My Twisted Words". Thom Yorke's vocals kick in about 3/4's of the way through, but the instrumentals are what reigns supreme throughout it. Again, a Stereogum hot post. Here you go.

So what's to be said about Radiohead in the later years of this decade? Mischievous? Obscure? Just in so much power, and so aware, but so humble, that they can rule the world with their wit? This is madness. But if it's so wrong, then I don't want to be right.

(500) Days Of Summer...Great Job!

I think I've seen this movie before...


All playing aside, this was the best movie I've seen all summer. Walking into the theater was like hipster judgment and evaluation, but once I sat down and the movie began, I really got sucked in. I instantly connected with Joseph Gordon-Hewitt's character, Tom, a love-struck greeting card writer who would rather be drawing up skyscrapers than creating corny "Get Well Soon" cards. Maybe I liked him so much because it's someone I aspire to be, or someone I aspire to be like, or maybe I hope ti go through a similar experience (for better or for worse). Zooey Deschanel is an absolute angel. That's to be expected. She's the cutest thing under the sun and shines in this film as the boss's newest assistance and Tom's crush. Hewitt's friends and co-workers in the movie are also pretty good, too. Definitely some funny moments, including the ever-popular "Penis" yelling game. But I do not want to give this film away at all. That's not nice. And it's because you have to see this movie. Here's the TV spot (though I'm sure you've seen it):


And check out these reviews during this trailer:


I guess the one thing I can talk about is the soundtrack. Was it really much of a shocker that it follows the same format as Garden State? Well it shouldn't be. Sundance film, indie rock actress, music aficionado film crew, etc. The music, itself, is as much apart of the movie itself, and you'll figure that out almost instantly. Like, within the first 10 minutes. Here's the track list. (Enough Smiths tunes? No complaints here, though.):

So can you please do yourself a favor and see this thing? It's funny, romantic, witty, and pretty much what you want for your own life. Or maybe I'm just speaking too much for myself. This tops The Hangover and Transformers 2 on my favorite summer movie list. Let us know what you think!

The Temper Trap - "Sweet Disposition"

You like the HD videos? They're nice to look at, but man do they make our blog look messy.

Music On TV: Fuse TV's "Distortion"

Welcome to the latest installment of this unofficial mini series of posts. We've already had a few posts about the past attempts by cable networks to return music videos to television. The sad truth is that for the most part, music videos are obsolete on any reasonable time on either MTV, MTV2, VH1, Fuse, (BET?), or any other one of the major channels. My theory: once the creators of MTV retired or passed away, young guns came in, money-hungry and without morals, turned MTV from a well-respected music station to a reality TV circus. It's all about getting paid, am I right? This site does a great job of updating readers on the current state of rock 'n' roll on MTV. It's one of my favorites. But here's the scoop on one network and it's newest test try.

First of all, when Fuse TV, once MuchMusic (Canada), busted onto the scene in 2003, they promised, no, they VOWED to be better than MTV, to restore music to television, in a pretty stern bash campaign. Since then, they've managed to fire pretty much all their staff, add garbage films into their daily line-up, go through a slue of failed live shows, and create some of the worst TV shows of all time (Pants Off, Dance Off, Rad Girls, and The Whitest Kids U'Know). So - what was so much better about Fuse than MTV again? Christ.

Here's a little bit saving grace: a new show that airs Thursday nights at 7 PM and Sundays, as re-runs, at 12:30 AM, on Fuse, called Distortion. It's supposed to be "Your guide to the best of indie and alt rock". I'd like to change that to "Your guide to shitty Rock Band video game references and the biggest tool of a VJ to ever hold the occupation". It's run-time: 1 hour. The amount of videos they aired on the premiere: 6. SIX?!? I can't believe how hypocritical Fuse has been throughout it's entire lifespan. Steven Smith, host, spent some time interviewing guests Rise Against, a band I don't listen to often but one that I do respect. Then they had random clips featuring the cast of the new mockumentary Paper Heart at ComiCon, talking to geeks and asking them what their favorite love songs were (embarrassing).

All in all, it was... a start? I just hope for better episodes to come. Here are the whopping six videos they played:

Nirvana - "Smells Like Teen Spirit" (Oh shit, didn't see that coming, what a shocker...)
Rise Against - "Hero Of War"
Yeah Yeah Yeahs - "Heads Will Roll"
Rancid - "Last One To Die"
Silversun Pickups - "Panic Switch" (Prone to epileptic seizures during viewing)
Green Day - "21 Guns"

So the music videos, as a whole, weren't bad by any means. In fact, I enjoyed them. I just wish there could've been more (and I really didn't need to hear pre-teens ask Rise Against stupid questions). So what's next for Fuse's Distortion? Hopefully a new VJ. And Sienna Miller and Channing Tatum as guests from the new G.I. Joe movie for next week. Come on. Leave it at bands and artists and that's it. Ugh.

Silversun Pickups - "Panic Switch"

Distortion airs every Thurday at 7 PM on Fuse TV.

Concert: Cursive (8-07-09)

Arriving at the First Unitarian Church, my favorite Philadelphia venue, the line to get in was around the block as it usually is. Waiting outside was no problem, as it was a beautiful August night in Center City. Once inside, it was a different story. It was ridiculously hot and humid inside the church basement, as it always is. Even with all six ceiling fans on (the first time I've ever seen that) it didn't seem to have any effect.

The first band, Philadelphia's own The G, played loud. Loud and fast. It was hard to really form an opinion on them, they had great energy, but it was very hard to make out anything other than one guitar and the drums. I'll have to look into these guys again, but I was neither impressed nor disappointed.

The Love Language played next. Hailing from Chapel Hill, NC, the septet (that's seven people) played a very soul inspired form of southern indie rock. They can be compared to the Delta Spirit, but with more soulful, smooth vocals. The crowd was very unreceptive to them at first, but their happy pop jams won everyone over and Cursive fans actually started dancing. Well, a little bit. They closed their set with an amazing cover of the Ricky Nelson classic "Hello Mary Lou". Definitely a band worth checking out live if you get the chance.

Now the big boys came out. In any other setting I would have been worried about the Love Language overshadowing the headliner. But that isn't a problem when Cursive is headlining. Now bearing a five man line-up (a touring musician plays the keys and horns) they sounded extremely tight all night. Tim Kasher's trademark yells, yelps, whispers, and screams were all perfectly in tune, which I was shocked at. He truly sounded better live than on record. And they wasted no time kicking things into high gear, opening with fast paced classic, "The Great Decay". Any doubts as to the fanhood of the crowd were immediately put to bed. I don't think I saw more than two closed mouths not singing along all night. Stopping rarely between songs, Tim and Co. gave the profusely sweating crowd barely any time to catch their breath. After first addressing the heat ("Are you angry as us? Oh, your angry at the heat? And God?"), Tim played with the crowd a bit. After a fantastic rendition of this year's "Mama, I'm Satan", Tim said "Either you guys didn't like that song, or you haven't really listened to the new record yet....It's okay, I haven't listened to your new record either, I like the old stuff though." The set list was a spectacular mix of old and new, hard and soft, slow and fast. They tore through blistering performances of "Big Bang", "The Casualty", "The Martyr", "From The Hips", and had Tim giving his best wise preacher motions on "Rise Up! Rise Up!". They took it down a notch for slower songs "Driftwood", "The Recluse", and "Making Friends And Acquaintances". The two biggest live stand outs were an unexpected cover the The Cure's "Lovecats" and most recent album closer "What Have I Done?". The latter was arguably the best performance of the night, with both Kasher and the audience giving it everything they had left. They closed their set with arguably their fastest song, "Some Red Handed Sleight Oof Hand", which left everyone in the audience completely wiped out.

I went in to the show wishing I was seeing The Good Life, Tim Kasher's other project. I left knowing that if I never get the opportunity to see Kasher live again, in any incarnation, I was lucky to see him when I had the chance.

Here's my video of "The Recluse".

Don't You ... Forget About John

80's coming-of-age/teenage angst films director John Hughes died earlier this week of a sudden heart attack, adding yet again another popular name to the obituaries this summer. This sucks. I've always been an admirer of his work in the Vacation movies and the "Brat-Pack" flicks (The Breakfast Club is one of my all time favorites). If I didn't focus a lot of my attention on music culture or rock 'n' roll research, I like to think film would've been my desired forte. And I'd be able to throw up Mr. Hughes' name under my list of influences (if my work was worthy of any prestige, of course). Music For Kids Who Can't Read Good and Stereogum have both already written up some great tribute posts to the man, so I'm not going to even try to attempt to one up those guys. They're posts are here and here. However, I will add a music video, just to make this post seem the tiniest bit more flashy. R.I.P John Hughes. Thank you for your work and your life.

Simple Minds - "Don't You (Forget About Me)"