Hi-Fi Heart

Fruits & Veggies mix!

2011-02-20T18:21:00.008-06:00

I made this mix several months ago for Patricia, and I'm finally getting around to sharing here. We just signed up for a CSA here in Nashville and I'm very anxious for May to get here! Does this mean we are officially hippies and/or yuppies?

zip file

Mixtape: Lions, Tigers & Bears! Oh my!

2010-10-03T15:10:00.005-06:00

Asobi Seksu	Lions And Tigers
Bishop Allen	Tiger, Tiger
Boy Least Likely To	My Tiger My Heart
A Camp	Bear On The Beach
The Features	Lions
Fleet Foxes	Tiger Mountain Peasant Song
Iron And Wine	Lion's Mane
The Killers	Neon Tiger
Mumford & Sons	Little Lion Man
My Sad Captains	Hello Bears
Page France	Mr. Violin And Dancing Bear
Paper Route	Tiger Teeth
Pete And The Pirates	Bears
Sarah Harmer	Came On Lion
Stephen Kellogg and The Sixers	The Bear
Washington	How To Tame Lions
Yeah Yeah Yeahs	Gold Lion

download!

Songs from Commercials, Vol. 15

2010-09-05T11:18:00.002-06:00

More songs from commercials, whoo-hoo.

Eharmony Commercial featuring "If It's Love" by Squeeze.

Traveler's Insurance Commercial featuring "Summer's Gone" by Aberfeldy

AT&T Commercial featuring "From the Morning" by Nick Drake

Diet Coke Commercial featuring "Sweet Disposition" by The Temper Trap

Saab Commercial featuring "The Time Is Now" by Asha Ali

Workout Mix - August 2010

2010-08-16T10:20:00.002-06:00

MIA Featuring Jay Z	XXXO
Justin Bieber Feat. Usher	Somebody To Love
Scissor Sisters	Fire With Fire
Tegan & Sara	The Ocean
Scouting For Girls	1+1
Foals	This Orient
Those Dancing Days	Run Run
Muse	Time Is Running Out
Black Eyed Peas	Meet Me Halfway
Kelly Clarkson	I Do Not Hook Up
Plastiscines	Barcelona
Justice	D.A.N.C.E
The Pipettes	Call Me

Workout Mix - July 2010

2010-07-12T20:20:00.024-06:00

There's a gym in my building, so I had no excuse but to join. Typically in the past, I've just listened to Paramore songs on repeat while running, but that was starting to get a little old. So I decided to make a 45 minute upbeat type mix good for the elliptical/treadmill. I might keep this up, and might not (same goes with the gym habit), but my goal is to make one for each month. ENJOY!

BoB Feat. Hayley Williams & Eminem	Airplanes
Hot Chip	Ready For The Floor
Sia	The Fight
La Roux	Bulletproof
Robyn	Dancing On My Own (Radio Edit)
The Black Keys	Tighten Up
Noisettes	Don't Upset The Rhythm
Alphabeat	Fascination
Rihanna	Rude Boy
Gossip	Pop Goes The World
Miike Snow	Black & Blue
Empire Of The Sun	Walking On A Dream

Rain, rain, go away...

2010-05-02T11:30:00.011-06:00

rain, rain, go away...

a rain mix

Adele	Right As Rain
Amos Lee	It Started To Rain
Bishop Allen	Rain
Bob Dylan	Rainy Day Women #12 & 35
Bruce Hornsby	Mandolin Rain
The Carpenters	Rainy Days And Mondays
Dar Williams	Beauty Of The Rain
eastmountainsouth	Rain Come Down
The Everly Brothers	Crying In The Rain
James Taylor	Fire And Rain
Jamie Cullum	Singin' In The Rain
Joe Purdy	I Love the Rain the Most
Mayer Hawthorne	I Wish It Would Rain
Paramore	When It Rains
Patty Griffin	Rain
Irma Thomas	It's Raining
Radney Foster	Raining On Sunday
Ronnie Milsap	Smoky Mountain Rain
Travis	Why Does It Always Rain On Me?
Whiskeytown	Sit & Listen To The Rain

.zip file

individual songs

Songs in Commercials, Fourteeth Installment

2010-05-01T14:35:00.003-06:00

I went with an "old school" theme this time. And for reals, the next one will the classical.

AT&T Commercial featuring "Pure Imagination" by Willy Wonka

Axe Commercial featuring "Sweet Touch of Love" by Allen Toussaint

Honda Commercial featuring "Pata Pata" by Miriam Makeba

Dell Commercial featuring "Lollipop Lollipop" by The Chordettes

Taco Bell featuring "Just the Two of Us" by Grover Washington

I heart covers, part two.

2010-02-22T10:55:00.008-06:00

Ten cover songs I've been loving lately:

Megan Washington & Sean Foran - Everybody's Talkin' (Harry Nilsson cover)
The Avett Brothers - I Love (Tom T. Hall cover)
Nerina Pallot - Peg (Steely Dan cover)
Clare & The Reasons - That's All (Genesis cover)
The Spinto Band - I Think We're Alone Now (Tommy James & The Shondells/Tiffany Cover)
Kate Walsh - A Little Respect (Erasure cover)
Paulo Nutini - Wake Up (Arcade Fire cover)
Gemma Hayes - Cloudbusting (Kate Bush cover)
The Big Pink - Sweet Dreams (Beyonce cover)
Norah Jones - Jesus, Etc. (Wilco cover)

'09 Mix Tape!

2010-02-07T20:28:00.020-06:00

Alexi Murdoch - All My Days

The movie "Away We Go" was such a disappointment to me (how did Maya Rudolph land Jim Halpert? She's cute, but her character was a total bitch!). The soundtrack was definitely the highlight of the movie for me. I bet Nick Drake is glad this guy could carry the torch for him.

The Avett Brothers - January Wedding

I could have picked any song from their album but this one was the first one I latched onto. Their Halloween show at the Ryman was probably the best show I saw all year.

Brooke Waggoner - Burdon of Our Courage

I absolutely ADORED Heal for the Honey and Fresh Pair of Eyes, and so I was sad when this one didn't immediately grab me. Maybe my expectations were too high. Still a good album, but can't compare to the other two in my opinion.

Catherine Feeny - He's Like You Only Better

I knew I would love this song, just from the title! Right now, Feeny's new album is just available on her website, but here's hoping it makes its way to iTunes and record stores soon.

Dave Rawlings Machine - Ruby

Gillian who? Old Crow who?

Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros - Home

I resist anything that appears to be "hipster music" so I didn't hear this one until late in the year. Glad I gave it a chance!

Emmy The Great - MIA

She is just precious and this song is just precious.

Fanfarlo - Harold T. Wilkins or How To Wait For A Very Long Time

Love, love everything about this band!

fun. - All the Pretty Girls

I was such a fanatic about The Format that I had a hard time getting into this new sound at first. It didn't help that I saw the band open for Manchester Orchestra on what appeared to be their VERY FIRST SHOW EVER... Ok, so it wasn't, but they were clearly unprepared. Or maybe the sound guy just sucked. I don't know. But now you can't tear me away from this album. It produces SHEER HAPPINESS to all who choose to listen to it. And Nate Ruess could front a Neil Diamond cover band and I'd still love him.

Gossip - Heavy Cross

This is the first year I really listed to the Gossip. What took me so long?

Grizzly Bear - Two Weeks

Only good song by an otherwise way-too-hipster band.

Indigo Girls - Love Of Our Lives
Ingrid Michaelson - Maybe

These two songs appeal to the repressed folkie in me.

J. Tillman - Year In The Kingdom

Lovely quiet album from Fleet Foxes guy.

Jack Peñate - Be The One

Um, he's really cute. And his songs are catchy.

Jay Z Featuring Alicia Keys - Empire State Of Mind

My favorite pop song of the year.

Julian Velard - Love Again For The First Time

We need a Billy Joel for 2010... He just might be it.

Just Jack - Embers
Karima Francis - Chasing The Morning Light

Why certain British acts never make it over here is beyond me. Just Jack is fun & catchy yet somehow avoids being cheesy. And Karima Francis' voice makes my heart break into a million peices.

Kelly Clarkson - I Do Not Hook Up

I love that K-Clark made a comeback this year! And I love that she is not a girl that "hooks up."

Kings Of Convenience - Boat Behind
Kings of Leon - Use Somebody

Two different "kings" here... Kings of Leon were kings of the airwaves of every single Top 40 and AAA station this year, to the point where I should be really sick of this song but somehow I'm not. And Kings of Convenience are kings of low key quiet Scandinavian pop. And I love them both.

La Roux - Bulletproof

Listened to the BBC a lot last year... It's starting to show I think.

Lady Antebellum - Need You Now

After hearing this song on about a million different award shows, I gave in.

Laura Marling - Goodbye England (Covered In Snow)

Laura gave us the most perfect Christmas single last year, and I can hardly wait for her new album in 2010! She is really as good as everyone says.

Leona Lewis - Happy
Lily Allen - Who'd Have Known

Um, BBC Radio One is the culprit again.

The Low Anthem - Ticket Taker

I don't usually pay much attention to lyrics but this one really grabbed me.
I am a ticket taker, many tickets have I torn
And I will be your ark, we will float above the storm

Matt & Kim - Daylight

Avoidable thanks to the Bacardi commercial.

Mayer Hawthorne - Just Ain't Gonna Work Out

It seems every year there is another neo-soul guy singer. It pretty much always works on me.

Metric - Sick Muse

I don't have much to say about Metric. I just know that I always like their albums.

Mumford & Sons - Winter Winds

My favorite new band of the year and probably my favorite album of the year -- Definitely my most listened to album of the year. SO FRICKIN' GOOD. Do yourself a favor and listen to them if you have not yet.

Noah and the Whale - Love of an Orchestra

Their album was an utter disappointment, but this song was the one ray of light on an otherwise TOTAL SAD-SACK of a CD.

Noisettes - Wild Young Hearts

I somehow missed their first album but made up for it quickly by falling head over heels on first listen to the new one.

Nouvelle Vague - Road to Nowhere

Best "cover" band ever.

Paramore - Brick By Boring Brick

I will turn 30 in May and I realize that makes me at least ten years too old to like Paramore. But I don't care. They have put out three catchy-as-hell albums (except for that one screamo song at the end of the first album), and I am admitting it to the world: I LOVE ME SOME ~~PARAMORE~~ HAYLEY WILLIAMS. I realize there are other band members but she is definitely the Gwen Stefani to their No Doubt, meaning you couldn't name another member if your life depended on it. As much as Hayley tries to deny it...

Passion Pit - Moth's Wings

I've heard this band sucks live, but their album is the best-dance-music-for-people-who-don't-like-dance-music that I've ever heard.

Pete Yorn - Don't Wanna Cry

Thank you, Pete Yorn, for making a good album this year.

Regina Spektor - Blue Lips

Far isn't as good as Begin to Hope, but that one was hard to beat.

Rosanne Cash - Long Black Veil (Feat. Jeff Tweedy)

An awesome album from start to finish. Thanks to Johnny Cash for helping make "The List".

Sam Means - Yeah Yeah

I can't forget the "other guy" in The Format. It might be hopeless but I am still rooting for them to get back together.

Samantha Crain & The Midnight Shivers - Rising Sun

I heart female singer/songwriters, especially when they can be described as "Björk's heartland cousin".

Sliimy - Wake Up

I heart gay French pop.

Slow Club - Dance 'Til The Morning Light

I heart twee Britpop.

Sondre Lerche - I Cannot Let You Go

I heart really cute boys from Norway that make jazzy pop.

The Swell Season - In These Arms

Fifty songs is a lot. And while I definitely would not rather watch the Superbowl, I'm starting to tire of writing this list... Can you tell? Anyway. Swell Season is another act that I can thank for always making my heart break.

Taylor Swift - You Belong With Me

Yeah, she sucks as a singer. And she is annoying as hell on award shows, whether she's singing out of key or accepting each award like she didn't even know she was nominated. But if I was 13 years old, I know for sure I would be one of those girls screaming at a Taylor Swift concert, wearing a Taylor Swift t-shirt and singing every single word to every Taylor Swift song, because what she has is the ability to connect with pretty much every 13 year old girl in the world (I bet even little goth 13 year olds listen to her secretly). So, I have to respect her for that, and I also like to sing along to her songs REALLY loudly when they come on the radio.

Tegan & Sara - Hell

They can do no wrong in my book, even though the intro to one of their songs is a blatant rip off of that MGMT song, which was probably ripped off someone else anyway.

Thao with the Get Down Stay Down - Cool Yourself
Zee Avi - Bitter Heart

Two more fabulous female singer/songwriters. That's about all I can say, since I used all of my remaining energy defending Taylor Swift.

xoxo y'all. Here's to 2010.

Holiday mix for 2009

2009-12-21T21:30:00.010-06:00

I absolutely LOVE Christmas music. Each year, I vow I won't start listening to it until Thanksgiving and each year I fail.... usually by June. There were a few really great new songs out this year, so I thought I'd make a mix (it doesn't take much, honestly).

Fun - Believe in Me
Brooke Waggoner - Christmas Moon
William Fitzsimmons - Covered in Snow
Slow Club - Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)
Rosie Thomas - Why Can't It Be Christmastime All Year
A Fine Frenzy - Red Ribbon Foxes
Pete Yorn - Do They Know It's Christmas
Catherine Feeny - Christmas Song
Sondre Lerche - Christmas Time Is Here
Laura Marling - Goodbye England (Covered in Snow)

(Download as a ZIP here)

And some other fun Christmas links for you:

Big Rock Candy Mountain has some great old school country/rock-a-billy Christmas tunes right now!
Plan 59 has really nice collection of 1950s Christmas cards/ads/design.
Santa's Working Overtime... for real. The best collection of Christmas links I've seen.
A really nice mix of classic Christmas songs from Guilt Free Pleasures
Mental Floss gives us the 10 Creepiest Santas and Bizarre But Clever Christmas Decorations
Orange You Lucky! has some adorable holiday labels for your printing pleasure
Bakerella has my favorite holiday dessert recipe... Oreo Truffles (just add red & green sprinkles)

That's all I've got... Now I shall start compiling my 'best of 2009' lists!

Hope you have a lovely Christmas.

Songs in Commercials, Thirteenth Installment

2009-11-23T18:20:00.004-06:00

Chrysler took out the line about heroin from the Dawn Landes song... I wonder why!

Phoenix - 1901 (used in Cadillac commercial)
Annie Little - Fly Me Away (used in the Amazon Kindle commercial)
Dawn Landes - Straight Lines (used in Chrysler Town & Country commercial)
Basia Bulat - Before I Knew (used in Subaru Outback commercial)
Langhorne Slim - Worries (used in Travelers Insurance commercial)

My next batch will be classical themed... Submit your suggestions! My inspiration is the amazing new American Express commercial that uses Bach's Cello Suite.

Happy birthday to the best dog ever.

2009-11-16T22:21:00.004-06:00

I never was a dog person. It took my husband five years to convince me we needed one, and even then I wasn't fully sold on the commitment. But now, on the second birthday of our dog Carnaby, I sit here making a MIX for MY DOG. Yeah. I have become the obsessive dog person. My friends talk about their kids, and I just share stories about my dog. He's my baby. Anyway, here are some songs (well, the first one isn't really a song...) about dogs. I would like to think these are the best songs you'll find about your four-legged friend. Enjoy!

Cousin Eddie - "Mississippi Leg Hound" (from National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation)
Bobby Bare, Jr. - Your Adorable Beast
The Beatles - Martha My Dear
The Format - Dog Problems
Nellie McKay - The Dog Song
Swan Dive - Half Breed Stan
Cat Stevens - I Love My Dog
Patty Griffin - Heavenly Day
John Hiatt - My Dog & Me
Blue Mother Tupelo - Gustard Bellue

17 Songs about 17!

2009-09-21T19:43:00.010-06:00

The Boy Least Likely To - I'm Glad I Hitched My Apple Wagon to your Star
I was young and I was stupid; I had just turned seventeen

Field Music - 17
When I was seventeen, I could stumble

The Eames Era - All of Seventeen
All of seventeen, we were falling apart at the seams

Stevie Nicks - Edge of Seventeen
I went forth with an age old desire to please on the edge of seventeen

Blitzen Trapper - Furr
When I was only seventeen, I could hear the angels whispering

Ladytron - Seventeen
They only want you when you're seventeen; when you're 21, you're no fun

Tara Maclean - At Seventeen (Janis Ian cover)
I learned the truth at seventeen, that love was meant for beauty queens

Broken Social Scene - Anthems for a Seventeen Year Old Girl
Park that car, drop that phone, sleep on the floor, dream about me

The Beatles - I Saw Her Standing There
Well, she was just seventeen, you know what I mean

The Wreckers - Strawberry Wine (Deana Carter cover)
Strawberry wine, seventeen.. the hot July moon saw everything

Sexton Blake - Young Turks (Rod Stewart cover)
Patti packed her bags, left a note for her momma, she was just seventeen

Ingrid Michaelson - The Hat
We were seventeen again together (And it's alright)

The Sound of Music soundtrack - Sixteen Going on Seventeen
I am sixteen going seventeen, I know that I'm naive

Kings of Leon - 17
Oh, she's only seventeen... wine and whine and wound up over everything

The Felice Brothers - Wonderful Life
You say you were only seventeen when you fell in love with that dirty Reverend Green

Gillian Welch - No One Knows My Name
And my mother was just a girl of seventeen; It's a wonder that I'm in this world at all

The Mountain Goats - This Year
I played video games in a drunken haze; I was seventeen years young

I heart covers.

2009-09-20T15:50:00.007-06:00

Ten cover songs I've been loving lately:

Noah & the Whale - You Can Call Me Al (Paul Simon cover)
Zee Avi - First of the Gang to Die (Morrissey cover)
Ellie Goulding - The Wolves (Bon Iver cover)
William Fitzsimmons - King of Wishful Thinking (Go West cover)
Dawn Landes - I Won't Back Down (Tom Petty Cover)
Daniel Merriweather - You Don't Know What Love Is (White Stripes cover)
Nouvelle Vague - Our Lips are Sealed (The Go-Go's cover)
Amy Millan - I Will Follow You into the Dark (Death Cab for Cutie cover)
Crooked Still - Orphan Girl (Gillian Welch cover)
Yim Yames - My Sweet Lord (George Harrison cover)

The Ultimate Bike Mix

2009-08-25T20:06:00.005-06:00

I recently purchased a vintage Schwinn road bike which of course leads to my collecting of any and all bike songs. Let me know which ones I am missing!

Dinah Shore - Daisy Bell (Bicycle Built For Two)
Hauschka - Blue Bicycle
Charlene Soraia - Bike
Psapp - Tricycle
Memory Tapes - Bicycle
Queen - Bicycle Race
Robinella - Brand New Key
Shonen Knife - Cycling is Fun
Dukes of the Stratosphere (XTC) - Bike Ride to the Moon
Madness - Riding on my Bike
Fats Domino - Rockin' Bicycle
Darren Hanlon - The Kickstand Song
This is the Kit - With Her Wheels Again
Caroline - Bicycle
Firefox AK - Everytime I Ride My Bike
Amy Correia - The Bike
Oh No, Oh My! - The Bike, Sir
The Plasticines - (Zazie Fait De La) Bicyclette
Katie Melua - Nine Million Bicycles
The Bicycles - BBBicycles
Rosie Thomas - Bicycle Tricycle

Songs in Commercials, Twelfth edition

2009-08-17T22:18:00.005-06:00

The eleventh installment was eaten by the internets. Sorry.

Donovan - Colours (used in Lenscrafters commercial)
Aberfeldy - Summer's Gone (used in the new Radio Shack, er, "The Shack," commercial)
Hockey - Too Fake (used in JC Penney commercial)
Matt Costa - Mr. Pitiful (used in Apple iPhone commercial)
Matt & Kim - Daylight (used in Bacardi commercial)

A Mad Men Mix

2009-08-16T17:18:00.005-06:00

In honor of the season premiere tonight, I've made a little mix! Enjoy!

Dave Brubeck - Take Five
Blossom Dearie - I Won't Dance
Fats Domino - I Want to Walk You Home
Brenda Lee - I Want to be Wanted
Nina Simone - Feeling Good
Benny Goodman - It's Only a Paper Moon
Eartha Kitt - C'Est Si Bon (It's So Good)
Johnny Mathis - Wonderful, Wonderful
Sarah Vaughan - Broken Hearted Melody
Bobby Vinton - Mr. Lonely

Top Ten Springsteen Covers.

2009-06-24T20:42:00.004-06:00

After seeing Bruce Springsteen at Bonnaroo, I felt compelled to make a mix of "boss" covers (sorry, had to). When will someone cover "Brilliant Disguise"?

Josh Ritter - The River (live)
The Avett Brothers - Glory Days (live)
Jose Gonzalez & Junip - Ghost of Tom Joad
The Format - For You
Catherine Feeny - I'm On Fire
Camera Obscura - Tougher Than the Rest (live)
The Band - Atlantic City
Patty Griffin - Stolen Car
Hem - Valentine's Day
Tegan & Sara - Dancing in the Dark

If you are itching for more Bruce covers, visit Hangin' On E Street.

Songs in Commercials, Petra Haden edition

2009-06-10T22:04:00.006-06:00

This one deserves its own post. After searching for a few weeks, it looks like we finally have a full-length version of the Petra Haden's cover of "Let Your Love Flow" from the Prius commercials (original by the Bellamy Brothers, who haven't had this much hoopla since they looked like this). And better yet, Toyota is offering it as a free download on their myspace site. The commercial itself is worth posting. From a press release issued by Toyota's ad agency:

They employ a cinematic technique to depict the harmony between man, nature and machine. A utopian landscape is made entirely out of people - the sun, clouds and even blades of grass are depicted by people moving in unison.

How cool is that? I should be feeling like such a sucker for the marketing man right now but this commercial is so good that I don't feel bad for liking it.

Petra Haden - Let Your Love Flow

Bonus! Here's the original, too.

The Bellamy Brothers - Let Your Love Flow

A mix of 10 cover songs for the start of summer.

2009-06-03T21:40:00.006-06:00

The Avett Brothers - Glory Days (Bruce Springsteen cover)
Laura Marling - The Wrote and the Writ (Johnny Flynn cover)
Dragonette - Sharp Dressed Man (ZZ Top cover)
Jay Jay Pistolet - Paper Planes (M.I.A. cover)
Sara Watkins - Pony (Tom Waits cover)
Metric - Don't Think Twice, It's All Right (Bob Dylan cover)
Sarah Borges & The Broken Singles - Being With You (Smokey Robinson cover)
Lay Low - The Reason Why My Heart's In Misery (Lefty Frizzell cover)
Ben Sollee - Extraordinary Machine (Fiona Apple cover)
Noah & The Whale - Devil Town (Daniel Johnston cover)

Sliimy

2009-04-28T15:37:00.009-06:00

I've become obsessed with French pop artist Sliimy. Apparently, he received some press a while back for his cover of "Womanizer" but I must have missed it. I don't really know how to describe Sliimy. The first word that comes to mind is "FAB-ulous".

Sliimy - Wake Up (The video is equally amazing)
Sliimy - Womanizer (Britney Spears cover)

RIYL: Alphabeat, Kate Nash, Phoenix, Mika

Top Ten Prince Covers.

2009-04-13T17:33:00.006-06:00

Nothing beats the real thing but these come pretty darn close. In my search for the best Prince covers, I have a newfound love for the underappreciated gem from Sign O' the Times -- "I Could Never Take the Place of Your Man".

Richard Swift - I Would Die 4 U
Ben Taylor - Nothing Compares 2 U
Susanna - Dance On
The Be Good Tanyas - When Doves Cry
Martin Sexton - Purple Rain
Duke Special - I Feel for You
Robyn - Jack U Off
Dent May & His Magnificent Ukulele - When You Were Mine
El Presidente - Raspberry Beret
Eels - I Could Never Take the Place of Your Man

American Idol - Motown Night

2009-04-01T07:29:00.000-06:00

I'm a bit late on 'Motown Night". But last week was one of the better ones I think (last night, however, was enough to make me quit watching this season entirely). I was terrified when they said Adam would sing "Tracks of my Tears". It is one of my favorite songs of all time, and the thought of him singing it was definitely cringe-worthy. To my surprise, I actually liked his version. Doesn't match the original or some of the more popular cover versions, but still not half bad.

The Miracles - Tracks of my Tears
Patty Griffin & Billy Mann (live) - Tracks of my Tears

Songs in Commercials, Tenth Installment

2009-03-22T12:28:00.003-06:00

Is it just me, or are these marketing folks just getting savvier lately? Maybe they are realizing that they can seem more hip AND save money on licensing fees at the same time, by using these songs by newer artists? Either way, I am constantly hearing more songs that catch my ear during commercial breaks.

Katie Herzig - Two Hearts Are Better Than One (used in Frito-Lay commercial)
The Mostar Diving Club - The Honey Tree (used in Honda Insight commercial)
Dan Deacon - Pink Batman (used in Crayola commercial)
Jupiter One - Countdown (used in Payless Shoe Source commercial)
Leon Jean-Marie - East End Blues (used in Frito-Lay commercial)

American Idol - Grand Ole Opry Night

2009-03-20T07:13:00.002-06:00

I wasn't too impressed with anyone this week but kind of loved hearing one of my favorite songs -- "Wild Angels" -- sound so radically different. Not to mention, you KNOW Scott had to work really hard on the arrangement. All of the rest of the contestants are blatantly stealing the arrangement from somewhere else. Had high hopes for Megan with "Walkin' After Midnight" but it was just "eh" (although she did have the flu... So I'll make an allowance there.) Too bad Alexis got sent home on this song... I didn't think she was that bad! I thought it would be Sarver for sure, but sadly it was not.

Dolly Parton - Jolene
Mindy Smith - Jolene

American Idol - Michael Jackson Night

2009-03-11T19:59:00.007-06:00

Yes, I am one of those people. I realize I am way too old to be watching American Idol (actually, I was too old even when the first season aired)... But somehow it always ends up sucking me in. I'm not even really impressed by anyone this season, but what I realized is that the show usually reminds me of some song I had long forgotten about. Last night reminded me how much I love Michael Jackson. And I know a lot of hipsters out there only like Off the Wall and/or Thriller era MJ, but I love it all up to 1991. I can't tell you how many times I listened to Dangerous back in middle school.

My goal is to post the original and my favorite cover version of one song from each episode. We'll see if I can keep it up.

Michael Jackson - Human Nature
David Mead - Human Nature

Songs in Commercials, Ninth Installment

2009-03-08T22:25:00.004-06:00

Another batch... enjoy!

Stereo Total - I Love You, Ono (used in Dell Studio commercial)
Estelle - Star (used in Crystal Light commercial)
Thao Nguyen & the Get Down Stay Down - Bag of Hammers (used in Clorox commercial)
Ivy - Edge of the Ocean (used in Office Max commercial)
Tim Myers - The Lucky Ones (used in Lays commercial)

Karima Francis

2009-03-01T19:14:00.004-06:00

The album is not out until March 23rd, but you can listen to it in full on last.fm at the moment. I urge you to do so. Each song has the potential to make you weep. Her voice is so raw and has so much emotion and so much sadness. Goosebumps appear with the first note. It makes me want to close my eyes and just sit. And listen. And do nothing else.

Karima Francis - Chasing the Morning Light

Songs in Commercials, Eighth Installment

2009-02-24T18:53:00.005-06:00

Three of these are from JC Penney ads. I don't think I've been in a JC Penney in at least 5+ years, but I might have to check it out now. And, the Hindi Zahra track is not the one I wanted to post, but this one was in a UK commercial and is still excellent. Anyone know where I could find the song ("Stand Up") from the Western Union commercial?

The Sleepy Rebels - Unbelievable (used in JC Penney commercial)
Emiliana Torrini - Jungle Drum (used in JC Penney commercial)
The Mystery Jets - Two Doors Down (used in JC Penney commercial)
Slow Club - Thinking, Drinking, Sinking, Feeling (used in Lays commercial)
Hindi Zahra - Beautiful Tango (used in NFU Mutual commercial)

Happy ♥ Day!

2009-02-14T11:54:00.001-06:00

Some lovey-dovey songs for your Valentine's Day!

Tom Baxter - Better
Said the Whale - The Light is You
Regina Spektor - Samson
Iron & Wine - Naked as We Came
These United States - First Sight
Magnet - Lonely No More
The Love Willows - Falling Faster
Slow Club - When I Go
Thomas Dybdahl - U
Noah & The Whale - 5 Years Time

Ten most excellent cover songs!

2009-01-26T20:06:00.006-06:00

Florence & The Machine - You've Got the Love (Candi Staton cover)
Parker Lewis - I Wouldn't Have Missed It For The World (Ronnie Milsap cover)
The Bird and the Bee - How Deep Is Your Love (Bee Gees cover)
The Welcome Wagon - Half A Person (The Smiths cover)
M. Ward w/ Lucinda Williams - Oh Lonesome Me (Don Gibson cover)
Emma Burgess - Your Love (The Outfield cover)
Kitty, Daisy & Lewis - Mean Son of a Gun (Johnny Horton cover)
Karima Francis - Use Somebody (Kings of Leon cover)
Fun - Come On Eileen (Dexy's Midnight Runners cover -- Live)
Kate Nash - Baby Love (The Supremes cover)

Some songs for today.

2009-01-20T18:26:00.004-06:00

Eva Cassidy - People Get Ready
Ben Sollee - A Change Is Gonna Come
Nina Simone - Feeling Good
Mason Jennings - The Times They Are A-Changin'
Patty Griffin - Up to the Mountain
Dar Williams - Better Things
Howard Jones - Things Can Only Get Better
Dan Wilson - What a Year for a New Year

A happy day, indeed.

Hi-Fi Heart's Favorite Songs of 2008

2009-01-15T18:04:00.002-06:00

Better late than never, right?

(Guilty pleasures included too.)

Adele - Chasing Pavements
Alphabeat - Fascination
Anathallo - Noni's Field
Ane Brun - The Treehouse Song
Ben Sollee - Panning for Gold
Beyonce - Single Ladies (Put A Ring On It)
Blitzen Trapper - Furr
Bon Iver - Skinny Love
Brooke Waggoner - Daylover
Chairlift - Bruises
Coldplay - Viva la Vida
CSS - Left Behind
Duffy - Warwick Avenue
Estelle - American Boy - Feat. Kanye West
Fleet Foxes - Ragged Wood
Florence And The Machine - Kiss With A Fist
Guillemots - Falling Out of Reach
Hercules and Love Affair - Blind
I Was A Cub Scout - Pink Squares
Ida Maria - I Like You So Much Better When You're Naked
James Morrison - Nothing Ever Hurt Like You
Jamie Lidell - Another Day
Johnny Flynn - The Box
Kings of Leon - Sex On Fire
Laura Marling - Ghosts
Lykke Li - Dance, Dance, Dance
M83 - Kim & Jessie
Marching Band - For Your Love
MGMT - Electric Feel
My Morning Jacket - Thank You Too
Noah and the Whale - 5 Years Time
Paramore - I Caught Myself
Passion Pit - Sleepyhead
Rachel Yamagata and Ray Lamontagne - Duet
Sam Amidon - Saro
Sam Sparro - Black and Gold
Santogold - L.E.S. Artistes
She & Him - You Really Gotta Hold On Me
Sigur Rós - Inní mér syngur vitleysingur.mp3
Slow Club - Let's Fall Back In Love
The Avett Brothers - Tear Down The House
The Black Kids - Look at Me (When I Rock Wichoo)
The Bridges - All the Words
The Cab - I'll Run
The Courteeners - Not Nineteen Forever
The Frightened Rabbit - The Modern Leper
The Raconteurs - Old Enough [featuring Ricky Skaggs and Ashley Monroe]
The Submarines - You, Me, & The Bourgeoisie
The Wave Pictures - I Love You Like A Madman
Tobias Froberg - Blissful

UPDATE: So, looks like Blogger and Box.net don't like this post very much, so I took the links down. Sorry!

Songs in Commercials, Seventh Installment

2008-12-08T21:48:00.001-06:00

It's been awhile... My TiVo keeps me from watching too many commercials, thank goodness!!!

The Silver Seas - Imaginary Girl (used in Kenmore commercial)
Emilie Mover - Ordinary Day (used in Bounce commercial)
Ryan Lindsey - Let's Go Out (used in Payless Shoe Source commercial)
Chairlift - Bruises (used in iPod commercial)
The Blue Van - Silly Boy (used in Samsung commercial)

Thanksgiving Mix

2008-11-26T22:35:00.003-06:00

Despite having a mini-freakout upon realizing that Kraft stopped making the "Garlic Cheese Roll" which I have always used to make my Cheese Grits Casserole... Thanksgiving is looking to be a lovely, relaxing time in our household (if you're wondering, Velveeta & garlic powder did the trick... still, not the same! Come on, Kraft!)... Although I am vowing yet AGAIN never to go to Kroger on the afternoon of the day before Thanksgiving.

But, I figured, why not use any excuse I can to make a mix! Being that Thanksgiving is all about family, that's the theme I chose for this group of songs. Some are happy family songs and some are extremely dysfunctional. Enjoy! And Happy Turkey Day!

Cold War Kids - We Used to Vacation
Dar Williams - Family
The Format - On Your Porch
Great Lake Swimmers - I am a Part of a Large Family
Jenny Lewis & The Watson Twins - Rabbit Fur Coat
Johnny Cash - Daddy Sang Bass
The Judds - Grandpa (Tell Me 'Bout the Good Old Days)
Loretta Lynn - Coal Miner's Daughter
The Louvin Brothers - The Family Who Prays
Patty Griffin - Sweet Lorraine
Sparks - In My Family

Madi Diaz

2008-11-25T22:05:00.001-06:00

I took about a year off from blogging (on a regular basis, at least). I just haven't had much time to search out new music, much less write about it. But tonight, I am inspired to make time for it. Thanks to Let Me Like It, I discovered the most amazing Madi Diaz. I feel a bit foolish, because she is a resident of Nashville and plays locally fairly often. Tonight, I've been listening to her songs and feeling my heart break just a little, and in the best possible way... It's so rare to find music that makes you feel something. Her newer stuff is much more poppy, less confessional singer-songwriter. But even when the music shimmers & shines... her voice is still there, and it's still breaking your heart.

Love You Now
Side

RIYL: Catherine Feeny, Kathleen Edwards, Tift Merritt, Everybodyfields

Baby Mix!

2008-10-12T20:42:00.004-06:00

So, last weekend I threw a baby shower for Amy J., one of my oldest, bestest friends. And, because I will take any excuse I can get to make a themed mix, I made a CD full of songs with baby in the title. I left off some of the cheesier ones like "Baby, Baby" by Amy Grant. I don't think any of these songs have anything to do with "baby" in the "newborn" sense, but they are still fun nonetheless!

Marvin Gaye - Too Busy Thinking About My Baby
James Taylor - Sweet Baby James
Jackson Browne - Somebody's Baby
Chuck Berry - Oh Baby Doll
Nina Simone - My Baby Just Cares For Me
Buddy Holly - Maybe Baby<
Dinah Washington - Is You Is, Or Is You Ain't My Baby?
Barbara Lewis - Baby, I'm Yours
The Supremes - Baby Love
The Shirelles - Baby, It's You

Songs in Commercials, Sixth Installment

2008-10-05T10:22:00.004-06:00

This batch has an "old school" theme. Enjoy!

Lipps, Inc. - Funkytown (used in Areva commercial)
Donovan - Catch the Wind (used in Mass Mutual commercial)
Dolly Parton - More Where That Came From (used in Target commercial)
Dinah Washington - Relax Max (used in Doubletree Hotel commercial)
Squeeze - Tempted (used in Heineken commercial)

Sweden & Denmark

2008-09-22T21:29:00.004-06:00

A recent trip to Denmark prompted me to post five songs from the fabulous country:

Efterklang - Step Aside
1 2 3 4 - Minor Chords
Diefenbach - On the Move
CALLmeKAT - Sweet You
Alphabeat - The Hours

Other favorite things about my visit Denmark:

- Listening to the big band at Tivoli
- The big swing at Tivoli
- Sleeping off jetlag at Kongens Have
- Seeing George Michael perform his final show in his "final tour" at the soccer stadium (total coincidence; I love George Michael but not enough to warrant a trip to Copenhagen!)
- Carlsberg beer

And then, a short flight to Stockholm and two short days in Sweden! It was so hard to choose just five songs for Sweden!

Ida Maria - Oh My God*
Hello Saferide - Anna
Jennie Abrahamson - Songs We Sing
Robyn - With Every Heartbeat (Live Lounge acoustic version)
Robert Svensson - Young Enough

*Yes, I know she is technically Norweigan. But she's living in Sweden (or so says Wikipedia) and she is one of my current favorites, so I couldn't resist!

Favorite things about my time in Stockholm:

- A trip to my childhood by entering Villa Villekulla at Junibacken
- Stumbling upon a show at tiny club Mosebacke Etablissement and discovering Jennie Abrahamson and Robert Svensson (see above)
- Eating at least two Daim candies per day (and Dumie, Bilar, Plopp, looking back I think I ate too much candy in Sweden!)
- Doing the cheesy Absolut icebar thing

Songs in Commercials: Fifth Installment

2008-07-04T08:45:00.002-06:00

Some really great songs this time! I had to include the one from the Saab commercial, even thought it's almost a year old... 'Cause not only do I love the song but I love my 10 year old Saab. :)

Nikolai Dunger - Something in the Way (used in Volvo commercial)
Nina Kinert - Through Your Eyes (used in Saab commercial)
Nicole Adkins - Maybe Tonight (used in Old Navy commercial)
Noah & The Whale - 5 Years Time (used in Saturn commercial)
Walter Meego - Forever (used in Heineken commercial)

Songs in Commercials: Fourth Installment

2008-05-25T18:52:00.001-06:00

So, this has become a bit of an obsession... I am now intent on finding the song in the Eucerin commercial. I was disappointed to find out that the song in the Quilted Northern commercial was created specifically for the company. Anyway... Life has been very busy lately, and has left little time for my sweet "hi-fi heart" but I did find five more songs recently heard in commercials. Quite a good batch if I must say so myself!

Miss TK & The Revenge- No Biters (used in Clearasil commercial)
The Icicles - La Ti Da (used in Target commercial)
Lights - The Last Thing On My Mind (used in Old Navy commercial)
JuJu Stulbach - Have You Ever Seen The Rain? (used in GE commercial)
Alice Peacock (w/ John Mayer) - Bliss (used in Hershey's Bliss commercial)

Yet Even MORE Songs from Commercials.

2008-03-28T12:57:00.001-06:00

Ok, this is kind of fun. Five more songs from commercials!

Tim Myers - A Beautiful World (used in Target commercial)
Landon Pigg - Falling In Love in a Coffee Shop (used in Debeer's commercial)
Dragonette - Get Lucky (used in JC Penney commercial)
Amos Lee - Sweet Pea (used in AT&T commercial)
Brendan Benson - What I'm Looking For (used in iPhone commercial)

More Songs from Commercials!

2008-03-26T14:56:00.004-06:00

So it seems a lot of people liked the last batch, so I decided to put together another one! Enjoy! Feel free to make suggestions as well.

Melpe Mene - I Adore You (used in Volvo commercial)
Ben Lee - We're All In This Together (used in Kohl's commercial)
Cao Fang - In Summer (used in GE commercial)
Alison Krauss & Robert Plant - Killing the Blues (used in JC Penney commercial)
Orba Squara - Perfect Timing (This Morning) (used in iPhone commercial)

Songs from Commercials

2008-02-28T15:47:00.002-06:00

Just a batch of songs I've recently heard in commercials and felt compelled to Google to find out who the artist is... Except for the Simone White song, which I found randomly on the Stroopwafel myspace page (I had a craving, and sadly am not anywhere NEAR The Netherlands at the moment)... And later found out it was in an Audi commercial, which was a good excuse to use it! Well, and the Hem song, which I recognized as Hem but hadn't heard that particular song. Enjoy!

Joe Purdy - Can't Get It Right Today (used in Kia commercial)
Lights - February Air (used in Old Navy commercial)
The Flatmates - Happy All The Time (used in Payless Shoes commercial)
Simone White - The Beep Beep Song (used in Audi commercial)
Hem - The Part Where You Let Go (used in Liberty Mutual commercial)

A Hi-Fi Heart Valentine's Mix

2008-02-14T15:59:00.002-06:00

Here's a very random mix of love songs in celebration of Valentine's Day!

The Blow - Parentheses (the cool kids love song)
Daryl Hall & John Oates - You Make My Dreams (the cheesy 80s love song)
Flight of the Conchords - Business Time (the comedic love song)
Guillemots - Made Up Love Song #43 (the off-kilter love song)
The Postal Service - Such Great Heights (the required indie love song)
Queen - You're My Best Friend (the athemic rock love song)
Ray Lamontagne - Shelter (the unconditional love song)
Rufus Wainwright - My Funny Valentine (the required listening love song)
Sondre Lerche - The More I See You (the jazzy coffeeshop love song)
Stevie Wonder - I Believe (When I Fall In Love It Will Be Forever) (the quintessential love song)

ENJOY! And Happy Valentine's Day (or Singles Awareness Day, whichever you prefer).

xoxo

New Releases - 2.5.08

2008-02-07T14:44:00.001-06:00

[Another Cover Songs Edition!]

I am embarassed I didn't know about Sons & Daughters before now. This album is full of fierce, female fronted rock. But it's catchy too! Enjoy this cover; it's the b-side for the "Gilt Complex" single.

Sons & Daughters - Killer (Seal/Adamski cover)

It's hard to believe that this album is just being released in the U.S. It was one of my early favorites in 2007, thanks to Basia's sweet vocals and all the ukelele! She recorded this Sam Cooke gospel classic for the US iTunes version of Oh, My Darling.

Basia Bulat - Touch the Hem of His Garment (Sam Cooke cover)

All is Well is subtle and delicate and so gorgeous that it overwelms me at times. Only after a few listens do you start to notice the variety of instruments in the background, because it all melds and flows so effortlessly.

Samamidon - Fall On My Knees (trad.)

Other honorable mentions for 2.5.08:

Hot Chip - Made in the Dark (addictive indie-dance)
Nada Surf - Lucky (shimmering pop)
HorrorPops - Kiss Kiss Kill Kill (tongue-in-cheek Danish-punk)
Lightspeed Champion - Falling Off the Lavender Bridge (unlikely troubadour)
Jason Collett - Here's to Being Here (mellow Americana/pop)
Air Traffic - Fractured Life (inoffensive Brit-rock)
Kamera - Resurrection (80's-throwback pop)

New Releases - 1.29.08

2008-02-04T15:47:00.000-06:00

[Cover Songs Edition!]

If you like Feist, Cat Power and the like, then you are bound to like Thao Nguyen. Her voice has a lazy, sultry sound (akin to Catherine Feeny). Enjoy this cover; it's the iTunes bonus track.

Thao - You've Really Got a Hold On Me (Smokey Robinson & The Miracles cover)

AllMusic.com describes Yoav as a "mix of Nine Inch Nails, Justin Timberlake, and Peter Gabriel." I would have never though of the Nine Inch Nails or JT comparisons, but I can hear it now. Pensive & dark singer/songwriter with percussion skills.

Yoav - Where Is My Mind (The Pixies cover)

I can't believe that I almost forgot about Shelby Lynne. I Am Shelby Lynne was one of my favorites back in 2000. This album is her tribute to Dusty Springfield, produced by Phil Ramone. She does a fine job on one of my all-time favorite songs "How Can I Be Sure" (seriously, best bridge ever!).

Shelby Lynne - How Can I Be Sure (The Young Rascals cover)

Other honorable mentions for 1.29.08:

Vampire Weekend - Vampire Weekend (blogged-to-death prep-rock)
Joe Jackson - Rain (AAA radio-friendly)
Louis XIV - Slick Dogs and Ponies (catchy retro-rock)
Chris Walla - Field Manual (Death Cab solo)
The Helio Sequence - Keep Your Eyes Ahead (Dylan-esque indie)
Xiu Xiu - Women As Lovers (too-weird-for-me noise)
Radar Bros. - Auditorium (subdued indie)

Yael Naïm

2008-01-30T16:12:00.000-06:00

I must admit I first took notice of Yael Naïm last night when I saw the MacBook Air commercial (and subsequently fell in love with both the computer and the song). Then I realized I had actually heard her voice before on the Readymade FC album Babilonia, which I bought on a whim in Paris over two years ago. I think I bought it because Feist was a collaborator on one of the songs. And, just for fun, some trivia about Yael (courtesy of Wikipedia):

1. Naim was born in Paris in 1978 to Jewish-Tunisian parents.
2. At the age of four, she moved with her family to Ramat HaSharon, Israel, where she learned Hebrew and trained as a pianist.
3. She served in Israel Defence Forces as a soloist in Israel Air Force Orchestra.
4. The songs on her self-titled album are in French, English, and Hebrew.
5. The album entered the French album chart at No. 11 the week after its release.

Yael Naïm - New Soul (used in the MacBook Air commercial)
Yael Naïm - Toxic (Britney Spears cover)
Readymade FC feat. Yael Naïm - The Only One
Readymade FC feat. Yael Naïm - Slide

RIYL: Norah Jones, Corinne Bailey Rae, Sia, Cat Power

My Fifty Favorite Songs of 2007

2008-01-25T07:30:00.001-06:00

THIS IS JUST A LIST - THE LINKS ARE DEAD

Without further ado, I present to you:

"My Fifty Favorite Songs of 2007: A Hi-Fi Heart Mixtape"
(in alphabetical order, with absolutely no pressure from hipster trends, and with a dash of country songs thrown in just 'cause this is Nashville!)

Adele - Hometown Glory

Alison Krauss & Robert Plant - Gone Gone Gone (Done Moved On)

Alphabeat - 10,000 Nights of Thunder

Aqualung - Something To Believe In

Arcade Fire - Keep the Car Running

Band of Horses - No One's Gonna Love You

Basia Bulat - Snakes & Ladders

Bishop Allen - Rain

Black Kids - I'm Not Gonna Teach Your Boyfriend How To Dance With You

Brooke Waggoner - Wonder-Dummied

De Novo Dahl - Shout

Delta Spirit - Strange Vine

The Everybodyfields - Aeroplane

Feist - 1234

Fergie - Clumsy

Gabrielle - Love Me Like You Do

GoodBooks - Passchendaele

Groove Armada - Song 4 Mutya

Ingrid Michaelson - The Way I Am

Jack Penate - Spit at Stars

Joshua James - The Soul and the Sea

Kate Nash - Mouthwash

Kate Walsh - Your Song

Kelly Clarkson - Sober

Leona Lewis - Bleeding Love

Los Campesinos - You! Me! Dancing!

Mandy Moore - Nothing That You Are

Mark Ronson (Feat. Amy Winehouse) - Valerie

Miranda Lambert - Dry Town

Noah and the Whale - Rocks and Daggers

Paramore - Crushcrushcrush

Patty Griffin - Heavenly Day

Radiohead - All I Need

Robyn - With Every Heartbeat

Rogue Wave - Chicago x 12

Ryan Adams - Everybody Knows

Sara Bareilles - Love Song

Sarah Borges and the Broken Singles - The Day We Met

Sigur Ros - Hljomalind

The Silver Seas - This Country Life

Spoon - The Underdog

Sugababes - About You Now

Sugarland - Stay

Taylor Swift - Our Song

Tegan & Sara - The Con

Those Dancing Days - Those Dancing Days

Travis - My Eyes

Wilco - Either Way

Yelle - Ce Jeu

Zookeeper - Ballad of my Friends

New Releases - 1.22.08

2008-01-23T16:48:00.002-06:00

So there were a TON of new releases yesterday. I tried to sift through them all, but The Yellow Stereo did a far more thorough job than I ever could. So I'll be lazy and just link to it.

The only addition I have for you:

Rooney - Forever Young (Youth Group cover)
(from the "I Should've Been After You" EP)

And, in case you care, my most highly recommended albums released from yesterday are:

Cat Power - Jukebox (more covers!)
Matt Costa - Unfamiliar Faces (acoustic goodness)
MGMT - Oracular Spectacular (fun dance/rock)
Liam Finn - I'll Be Lightning (acoustic GREATness)
Jack Penate - Matinee (domestic arrival!)
Steve Poltz - Traveling (acoustic cleverness)
Anna Kramer & the Lost Cause - The Rustic Contemporary Sounds of... (rocking rootsiness)
Bodies of Water - Ears Will Pop & Eyes Will Blink (California throwback sounds)
The Whitsundays - The Whitsundays (quiet prettiness)
Hey Willpower - P.D.A. (indie Mika-meets-JT)

New Releases - 1.22.08

2008-01-23T16:48:00.001-06:00

So there were a TON of new releases yesterday. I tried to sift through them all, but The Yellow Stereo did a far more thorough job than I ever could. So I'll be lazy and just link to it.

The only addition I have for you:

Rooney - Forever Young (Alphaville cover)
(from the "I Should've Been After You" EP)

And, in case you care, my most highly recommended albums released from yesterday are:

Cat Power - Jukebox (more covers!)
Matt Costa - Unfamiliar Faces (acoustic goodness)
MGMT - Oracular Spectacular (fun dance/rock)
Liam Finn - I'll Be Lightning (acoustic GREATness)
Jack Penate - Matinee (domestic arrival!)
Steve Poltz - Traveling (acoustic cleverness)
Anna Kramer & the Lost Cause - The Rustic Contemporary Sounds of... (rocking rootsiness)
Bodies of Water - Ears Will Pop & Eyes Will Blink (California throwback sounds)
The Whitsundays - The Whitsundays (quiet prettiness)
Hey Willpower - P.D.A. (indie Mika-meets-JT)

New Releases - 1.15.08

2008-01-17T14:07:00.000-06:00

[Cover Songs Edition!]

Band of Horses guitar player and North Carolinian Tyler Ramsey released his second solo album this week. It is a quiet, melacholy affair with lovely finger-style acoustic guitar picking, reminiscent of Leo Kottke.

Tyler Ramsey - These Days (Jackson Browne cover)

The Battle of Land and Sea is the dreamy sounding duo of Sarah O'Shura and Joshua Canny. After first listen, it's impossible not to think of Mazzy Star. Trivia: O'Shura recorded several songs while in the nude, but she won't tell which ones.

The Battle of Land and Sea - Harden My Heart (Quarterflash cover)

This duet with Canadian songbirds Anne Murray and Nelly Furtado is dreadful, amusing, and fun all at once. Anne Murray's voice was never truly great, and it's teetering on unlistenable at this point, but still - Useful for kitsch factor alone!

Anne Murray with Nelly Furtado - Daydream Believer (Monkees cover)

Other honorable mentions for 1.15.08:

Magnetic Fields - Distortion (title-says-it-all)
The Eels - Meet The Eels: Essential Eels 1996-2006, Vol. 1 (nice introduction)
The Eels - Useless Trinkets: B-Sides, Soundtracks, Rarities & Unreleased 1996-2007 (serious fans only)
The Steeldrivers - The Steeldrivers ("rhythm'n'bluegrass")

New Releases - 1.8.08

2008-01-09T15:20:00.000-06:00

For those of us that weren't alive in '69-'71, I'm happy to say that we now have a chance to hear (and see) some of the best performances from The Johnny Cash TV Show. This duet with Joni Mitchell is particularly wonderful.

Joni Mitchell & Johnny Cash - Girl From North Country

"My Declaration" was the song that introduced me to Tom Baxter back in 2004. He is often compared to Jeff Buckley, but I find Tom's music to be much more accessible. Short of paying $30 for an import CD, it's pretty much impossible to buy his music in the US. A travesty!

Tom Baxter - Better

This is (Willie) Wisely's fourth album, and it features lovely and melodic singer/songwriter pop. He has a famous friend in Jenna Fischer (Pam of "The Office"), who appears in his video for "Through Any Window". It's like if Badly Drawn Boy made an album full 70s AOR.

Wisely - California

Other honorable mentions for 1.8.08:

Sia - Some People Have Real Problems (smooth/soulful pop)
Kate Nash - Made of Bricks (US release, finally!)
Marah - Angels of Destruction (bluesy roots-rock)
Amanda Shaw - Pretty Runs Out (New Orleans fiddler)

A Hi-Fi Heart Xmas, Day Four

2007-12-24T15:47:00.000-06:00

A HI-FI HEART XMAS, DAY FOUR

Hem - Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas
Leona Naess - Christmas
The Pipettes - White Christmas
The Joseph & Mary Chain - Twelve Days of Christmas
The Free Design - Close Your Mouth (It's Christmas)
Feist - Lo, How A Rose E're Blooming
Mindy Smith - What Are You Doing New Year's Eve?
Ron Sexsmith - Maybe This Christmas
Daniel Ellsworth - It's Christmas, I Love You
The Format - Holly Jolly Christmas

Alternatively, you can download all songs in one handy dandy zip file!

THE HI-FI HEART XMAS LINK OF THE DAY

This site has 314 versions of possibly the best modern day Christmas song, "Last Christmas".

Sadly, this will be my last Christmas mix. I was hoping to have time to make five, but with all the last minute shopping & wrapping etc, I did not. So... Merry Christmas, y'all! And Happy New Year!

A Hi-Fi Heart Xmas, Day Three

2007-12-23T12:05:00.000-06:00

A HI-FI HEART XMAS, DAY THREE

Cocoon - Christmas Song
Rosie Thomas - Christmas Time Is Here
The Be Good Tanyas - Rudy
The Young Republic - Merry Christmas Again...
Matt Pond PA - Holiday Road
Oh Susanna - Go Tell It On The Mountain
Firefox AK & Tiger Lou - Christmas Eve
Kyle Andrews - Under the Mistletoe
Louis XIV - This Christmas
All My Friends - No One Should Be Sad at Christmas Time

Alternatively, you can download all songs in one handy dandy zip file!

THE HI-FI HEART XMAS LINK OF THE DAY

It's Hard to Find a Friend has an incredible Christmas album titled "Peace on Earth". It's just $7 and all the proceeds go to Toys For Tots.

A Hi-Fi Heart Xmas, Day Two

2007-12-22T12:37:00.000-06:00

A HI-FI HEART XMAS, DAY TWO

Math & Physics Club - A Marshmallow World
The Weepies - All That I Want
Chris Garneau - Christmas Song
Pas/Cal - I Want To Take You Out In Your Holiday Sweater
Hello Saferide - Ipod Xmas
Over The Rhine - Snowed In With You
A Fine Frenzy - Let It Snow
Rufus Wainwright - Spotlight on Christmas
Lylas - Swing Low, Sweet Mistletoe
My Morning Jacket - Xmas Time Is Here Again

Alternatively, you can download all songs in one handy dandy zip file!

THE HI-FI HEART XMAS LINK OF THE DAY

Eardrums has the absolute MOST indie Christmas songs! Check it out!

A Hi-Fi Heart Xmas, Day One

2007-12-20T20:35:00.000-06:00

Each day leading up to Christmas, I will post ten of my favorite holiday tunes. Download songs individually or in one big zip file. I'll also feature my favorite Christmas "Link of the Day".

A HI-FI HEART XMAS, DAY ONE

Robbers on High Street - Seasons Greetings
Ingo Star Cruiser - Just Like Christmas
Scissors for Lefty - Christmas Intentions
Old 97's - Here It Is Christmas
Everything But The Girl - 25th of December
Iain Archer - Little Drummer Boy
Young & Sexy - Santa Clause Likes Rich Kids Better
Emmy The Great - Christmas In Prison
The Liberty Bell - I Love You's
Joshua James - Oh Come Oh Come Emmanuel

Alternatively, you can download all songs in one handy dandy zip file!

THE HI-FI HEART XMAS LINK OF THE DAY

Download an entire Christmas album for FREE from various Nashville artists from Speakerheart.

New Releases - 11.20.2007

2007-11-26T13:25:00.000-06:00

Almost a week late, but better late than never, right?

Usually label compilations are a bit of a mish-mash... And not so good to be listened to from start to finish. But since most of Morr's releases fall into a category I like to call "for the quiet times", this 2-CD set is actually fairly cohesive. Beeps & blips & pretty sounds abound!

Butcher the Bar - Leave This Town

I'll admit it. I love Christmas music. But even if you despise most Christmas tunes, I think you might still enjoy this EP from singer/songwriter Joshua James. It's like a soft and sweet indie-style Christmas, unobtrusively adding some holiday cheer to your day!

Joshua James - Winter Storm

Being The Format completist that I am, I already had most of the songs on B-sides & Rarities. But that didn't stop me from spending $30 on Format merch, just so I could get a physical copy of the CD. It was worth it because I now have their incredible new DVD and a whale t-shirt.

The Format - Does Your Cat Have A Mustache? (originally on For the Kids III)

Other honorable mentions for 11.20.07:

To My Boy - Messages (fun 80s-style-pop)
Benjamin Biolay - Trash Yeye (French folk)
Ed Harcourt - Until Tomorrow Then: The Best of Ed Harcourt (great introduction)
British Sea Power - Krankenhaus (to-tide-you-over EP)
The Devil Makes Three - The Devil Makes Three (old-timey americana/punk)
Ayo - Joyful (sweet R&B songstress)

The Hoosiers

2007-11-02T09:07:00.000-06:00

In general, I know that I am bound to like an album if Drowned in Sound gives it a horrible review (usually my favorites receive 3 or 4 out of a possible 10). I honestly love reading their negative reviews, just becuase they are so well written and often hilarious. It may not be hip to like The Feeling or The Hoosiers, but I just can't help myself. Apparently, neither can the rest of the UK... Their most recent single "Goodbye Mr. A" hit the Top 5 and their debut album The Trick to Life is currently number one on the charts. "Goodbye Mr. A" is utterly irresistible on the first listen. It is big and bold and truly one of the most fun songs to come along in a good while. Imagine Jeff Buckley fronting ELO.

The Hoosiers - Goodbye Mr. A
The Hoosiers - LoveStoned (Justin Timberlake cover)
The Hoosiers - We Didn't Start The Fire (Billy Joel cover)

RIYL: The Darkness, The Feeling, MIKA, XTC, The Cure

New Releases - 10.31.07

2007-10-31T11:32:00.000-06:00

I thought that I didn't care for Gomez, but turns out every song I heard featured Ben Ottewell as lead vocalist instead of Ian Ball. Now that that I know which one I prefer, I can listen to some Gomez! This is the first solo CD from a Gomez member, and you should tune in if you like laid-back acoustic rock a la Josh Rouse.

Ian Ball - When We Were Cool

Up until now, if you wanted to buy an album from Sweden's Anna Ternheim, you had to pay import prices. Finally, we see a U.S. release by Anna on Decca Records, even if it is just an EP of songs from her international releases. Her voice is pretty and haunting and sad all at once.

Anna Ternheim - China Girl (David Bowie cover)

I'm the dreaded casual Dylan fan. You know, the type that owns Dylan's Greatest Hits (because you have to) and Nashville Skyline (because it's the one time Dylan doesn't sound much like Dylan). I've yet to see this movie, but the soundtrack is an interesting tribute to the man.

Glen Hansard & Marketa Inglova - You Ain't Goin' Nowhere

Other honorable mentions for 10.30.07:

Nicole Atkins- Neptune City (retro-styled neo-folk)
Blue Rodeo - Small Miracles (nice roots-rock)
Various Artists - Goffin & King: A Gerry Goffin and Carole King Song Collection 1961-1967
(necessary compilation)
Alice Smith - For Lovers, Dreamers & Me (funky soulstress)
Graham Colton - Here Right Now (Kelly-Clarkson's-ex-makes-guilty-pleasure-pop-rock)
Kyle Andrews - Find Love Let Go (Local goodness)

New Releases - 10.16.07

2007-10-16T18:35:00.000-06:00

It's so sad that Semisonic is often regarded as a one hit wonder from the 90s. Although I doubt lead singer Dan Wilson is too upset, seeing he's been busy earning Grammys for his work with the Dixie Chicks. This song was recorded first for Taking the Long Way but Dan recorded it as well for his recent album Free Life, produced by Rick Rubin.

Dan Wilson - Easy Silence

Back in the day (I think I can say that since it was ten years ago!), I was a huge Dar Williams fan. I haven't kept up with her newer work, but listening to her new live album brought back a lot of memories of my past life as a folkie. Songs like "February", "After All", and "When I Was a Boy" still stand out, whether you like folk music or not.

Dar Williams - Ripple (Grateful Dead cover)

The blogosphere is crazy about Maritime, and rightly so. Heresy & The Hotel Choir is the third album from this band started by former members of The Promise Ring and The Dismemberment Plan back in 2003. This is sensible music that won't offend anyone but still rocks hard enough to please the indie kids.

Maritime - Aren't We All Found Out

Other honorable mentions for 10.16.07:

Angie Stone - The Art of Love & War (old-school R&B)
Steel Train - Trampoline (above-average rock)
Octopus Project - Hello, Avalanche (instrumental indie)
The Launderettes - Fluff 'N Fold: The Best of The Launderettes (Norwegian garage)
Kenna - Make Sure They See My Face (genre-defying-music-from-Ethiopan-artist-discovered-by-Fred-Durst-but-somehow-it's-good)

Those Dancing Days

2007-10-15T19:31:00.000-06:00

Those Dancing Days could be just another cutesy, twee Swedish pop act that bloggers love for one week and forget about the next. But lead singer Linnea Jonsson makes this band memorable, not because of her Orphan Annie hair, but because of her surprisingly soulful vocals. All five girls are from a Nacka, a suburb of Stockholm, and are aged 17 and 18. "Hitten" is utterly infectious; I dare you to try to get it out of your head. And "Those Dancing Days" is the perfect ode to music and staying out and dancing all night (which, by the way, is not the song the band is named after; bassist Mimmi likes the song "Dancing Days" by Led Zeppelin).

Those Dancing Days - Hitten
Those Dancing Days - Those Dancing Days

RIYL: The Pipettes, Lucky Soul, Dusty Springfield, Amy Winehouse

Kate Nash

2007-10-12T17:11:00.000-06:00

I am happy to report that I think I should be able to update this blog (at least, semi-) regularly for the next few months. I hope, anyway. I feel kind of lame having my first post in almost a month be about the over-exposed Kate Nash. BUT, seeing as I just returned from London and my Anglophilia is raging stronger than ever, I guess it is fitting (plus it's a Friday night). I kept hearing "Mouthwash" in shops and couldn't help but smile every time I heard it. It makes me think of myself at age 17 or so. I do think freckles are very much underrated, although I could be biased since I have a face full of them. I think Kate's album is rather hit-or-miss but this song, "Foundations," "The Nicest Thing" and "Birds" are brilliant. I despise "Caroline is a Victim"... it is just useless for me. Thanks to The Huddle Formation for Kate's cover of The Arctic Monkeys "Fluorescent Adolescent". Much to my pleasure, The Huddle Formation also has numerous other "Live Lounge" covers. The one CD I picked up in the U.K. was the BBC's new Radio 1 cover song collection. I know she is disliked by many but I adore listening to Jo Whiley every morning at work, it's what makes me wake up each day. I have read a lot of complaints on the Internet about Radio 1, and probably all valid if you have other alternatives, but in the U.S., I dare you to find a station that plays such a variety of music. Hearing Sigur Ros next to Rihanna and British announcers in between is like my own personal radio heaven. So who cares if they use fake callers? Um, yes, back to the subject at hand... Kate Nash.

Kate Nash - Mouthwash
Kate Nash - Fluorescent Adolescent (Arctic Monkeys cover)

RIYL: Lily Allen, Regina Spektor, Emmy the Great, Adele

New Releases - 9.18.07

2007-09-20T10:03:00.001-06:00

I was first introduced to Firefox AK (aka Andrea Kellerman) from the video for Hello Saferide's "Long Lost Penpal". Her music is not similar to Hello Saferide, although they both hail from Sweden, and they are both completely adorable. Sounds like a mix of Tegan & Sara and... Kylie? Yum!

Firefox AK - Zodiac

This Philly power pop band has done it again with their sophomore album Silver Storms. If you liked Hello, Hello, or even if you have never heard of them... It's the kind of indie pop that is really hard NOT to like (very Shins-like). They recently signed to Vagrant Records.

The A Sides - Amazing Grace

Now, after three albums, I am still wondering why less people have heard of Magnet (aka Norway's Even Johansen). He makes the kind of gorgeous, laid-back electronica-tinged singer/songwriter pop you will ever hear. In the vein of David Gray, Ed Harcourt, Thomas Dybdahl... 100% Lovely!

Magnet - Slice of Heaven

Other honorable mentions for 9.18.07:

Hard-Fi - Once Upon a Time in the West (nicely-done Britrock)
Matt White - Best Days (cheesy-but-lovable singer/songwriter)
Jesca Hoop - Kismet (quirky/eclectic pop)
Ben Lee - Ripe (always awesome)
Bella - No One Will Know (pretty indie-pop)
Plasticines - LP1 (French-pop goodness)
Rogue Wave - Asleep At Heaven's Gate (Gibbard-esque indie)
Drug Rug - Drug Rug (boy/girl twangy rock)

Next Big Nashville

2007-09-05T21:47:00.000-06:00

I'm going to actually get out and support the local music scene this weekend. You should, too. Thirty bucks gets you a wristband for the whole weekend.

NEXT BIG NASHVILLE
130+ Bands...10+ Venues...5 Days...Sept 5-9, 2007
The second annual Next Big Nashville (NBN) will showcase the best of the thriving Nashville music scene and artistic community over five-days at Cannery Ballroom, Mercy Lounge, 12th & Porter, Exit/In, The End, The Rutledge, Belcourt Theatre, The Basement, 3rd & Lindsley, Grimey's Records, Bar23, Layl'a Ultra Lounge, Bar car, & more. The event will feature performances from The Features, Jeremy Lister, Landon Pigg, The Pink Spiders, Freedy Johnston, Gabe Dixon Band, De Novo Dahl, Butterfly Boucher & many more.

Some MP3s for you (I plan to add more tomorrow, so check back!)....

Carey Ott - Am I Just One
Performing Friday at The Basement

Landon Pigg - Can't Let Go
Performing Friday at The Cannery Ballroom

How I Became The Bomb - Killing Machine
Performing Saturday at The Cannery Ballroom

Butterfly Boucher - Life Is Short
Performing Friday at The Cannery Ballroom

The Privates - My Shoes
Performing Friday at Exit/In

Judd & Maggie - Perfectly
Performing Saturday at The Mercy Lounge

De Novo Dahl - Shout (Popple Mix)
Performing Saturday at The Cannery Ballroom

The Features - Take You On (Demo)
Performing Saturday at The Cannery Ballroom

Cortney Tidwell - The Missing Link
Performing Thursday at The Basement

Be sure to visit Out The Other for many, many more MP3s from bands playing the festival.

New Releases - 8.21.07

2007-08-22T18:40:00.000-06:00

This Johnson City, Tennessee band is in the same category as Gillian Welch, The Avett Brothers, and Hem. Both previous albums from The Everybodyfields are favorites of mine, and their sound and songwriting has only improved on Nothing Is Okay. Heartbreakingly sad sounding Americana (but in a good way).

The Everybodyfields - Over and Done

I have to admit I haven't listened to this album much yet, but what I have heard sounds like The Bee Gees and... Jewel? It seems everyone has an opinion on Rilo's new sound. People either love it or hate it. I don't hate it, but some songs on the album are truly dreadful (ie "The Moneymaker").

Rilo Kiley - Big Break (B-side to "The Moneymaker" 7 inch single)

Josh Ritter has been called the modern day Springsteen and the modern day Dylan... Both are fitting comparisons. His major label debut has a bigger, fuller sound, but when it comes down to it, Josh is still writing incredible folk songs when you strip away all the extra instruments.

Josh Ritter - To The Dogs or Whoever

Other honorable mentions for 8.21.07:

The New Pornographers - Challengers (perfect indie-pop)
Cartel - Cartel (irresistible pop/punk)
Architecture in Helsinki - Places Like This (quirky Australians!)
Caribou - Andorra (Zombies-like folk/rock)
Imperial Teen - The Hair, The TV, The Baby & The Band (pretty power-pop)
Ingram Hill - Cold in California (nice roots-rock)
Earlimart - Mentor Tormentor (subdued shoegaze)
Over the Rhine - The Trumpet Child (jazzy-pop for the Starbucks crowd)

New Releases - 8.7.07

2007-08-10T20:33:00.000-06:00

[I've been a bad blogger lately, and might continue to be for the next few weeks... But I will resume eventually, I promise!]

Orenda Fink (one half of the defunct Azure Ray) ups the tempo slightly with her new project Art in Manila. By upping the tempo, I mean now it might just make you sleepy as opposed to comatose. Still, this is a lovely album full of girly indie sounds.

Art in Manila - The Abomination

This album was just released digitally this week, the physical version does not come out until Sept. 4th. I love everything about Ferraby: His Care-Bears-sounding name, the fact that he's a Nashville boy, his Rufus-Wainwright-but-less-over-the-top pretty vocals, his scruffy hobo songwriter look, etc.

Ferraby Lionheart - Pure Imagination (iTunes Bonus Track / Willy Wonka Cover!)

Moo, You Bloody Choir has been out in Australia for quite some time now, but was just released stateside this week. This Melbourne-based band has been creating melodic dream-pop for over a decade now but still have not received much attention in the U.S. The lead singer is very Jeff Buckley sounding.

Augie March - The Cold Acre

Other honorable mentions for 8.07.07:

Grace Potter and the Nocturnals - This is Somewhere (smoky-voiced singer/songwriter)
Okkervil River - The Stage Names (gritty folk/rock)
Magnolia Electric Co. - Sojourner (ambitious box set)
Mirah & Spectratone International - Share This Place (album all about... insects?)
The Brunettes - Structure and Cosmetics (Kiwi indie-pop)

Fried

2007-07-29T15:05:00.000-06:00

When I first heard this song by Fried, I thought that it sounded eerily similar to Gabrielle (a guilty pleasure of mine who I posted about several months ago). Then I did some research and found out that she was discovered by David Steele (formerly of the 80's group Fine Young Cannibals), who produced Gabrielle's first album. It seems he was looking to recreate that success with Jonte Short, a young singer from New Orleans. This song is retro-soul at its best. It makes me wonder whatever happened to Lauryn Hill?

Fried - I'll Be There

RIYL: Jill Scott, Macy Gray, Lauryn Hill, Gladys Knight, Gabrielle

New Releases - 7.24.07

2007-07-25T14:25:00.000-06:00

Over 400,000 people viewed Dutch band Alamo Race Track's video for "Black Cat John Brown" on YouTube, and millions more heard the song on Grey's Anatomy. Comparisons I've heard so far: "early Radiohead with pizzicato strings", "Soft Bulletin-era Flaming Lips with The Strokes", and "slap-happy Peter, Bjorn John".

Alamo Race Track - Kiss Me Bar

I am pretty much in love with anything retro, and even more so when it is authentically retro like Nicole Willis and her Soul Investigators. Miss Willis is Brooklyn born and the Investigators are from Finland. Who knew Fins could be so funky?!

Nicole Willis & The Soul Investigators - A Perfect Kind Of Love

"Spanish Teeth" was one of my favorite songs of 2005, so I was happy to hear that Robbers on High Street had a new album out. Grand Animals is less Spoon sounding, and more heavily Beatles-esque. Their sound is bigger and better this time around - I'm really digging it.

Robbers on High Street - You Don't Stand A Chance

Other honorable mentions for 7.24.07:

Tegan & Sara - The Con (their best yet!)
The Lovemakers - Misery Loves Company (80s leaning pop)
Tiny Vipers - Hands Across The Void (sparse folk)
Bishop Allen - The Broken String (indie must-have)
The Manchester Orchestra - I'm Like A Virgin Losing A Child (grandoise punk/pop)
John Vanderslice - Emerald City (indie-rock singer/songwriter)

New Releases - 7.17.07

2007-07-18T18:47:00.000-06:00

Josh Rouse proves yet again that he is incapable of making a bad album with his 7th full length Country Mouse City House. Don't expect any big changes in his sound, though. Still the irresistible country-tinged pop/rock we have grown to expect from Josh. It seems moving to Spain from Nashville was a good move for him.

Josh Rouse - London Bridges

A Fine Frenzy is the stage name of L.A.'s Alison Sodul. She has a lot going for her: she has celebrity friends (Selma Blair), she is drop dead gorgeous, she's currently on tour with Rufus Wainwright, but most importantly her music is like a fascinating mix of Fiona Apple, Kelly Clarkson, and... Coldplay?

A Fine Frenzy - The Minnow & The Trout

Teddy Thompson (son of folk royalty Linda & Richard Thompson) heard a lot of country music growing up in a commune in England, and so it stood to reckon that he might make a country album one day. His voice has a pure folk sound, but somehow still works on these songs (all covers, except for one). "My Blue Tears" is a Dolly Parton tune.

Teddy Thompson - My Blue Tears

Other honorable mentions for 7.17.07:

Rooney - Calling The World (retro rock)
The Rocket Summer - Do You Feel (Hanson-if-they-were-a-Christian-emo-band-so-why-the-hell-do-I-like-it?)
The Honorary Title - Untouched and Intact (near perfect pop/punk)
The Magic Numbers - Those The Brokes (modern Mamas & Papas)
Eilen Jewell - Letters From Sinners & Strangers (less gritty Lucinda)
The Cribs - Men's Needs, Women's Needs, Whatever (edgier Franz)

The Electric Cinema

2007-07-16T14:29:00.000-06:00

The Electric Cinema is a four piece band based in London and headed up by siblings Dan and Rebecca Neale. They have been accused of being merely a rip off of other bands out there (yet aren't they all? Just some more obviously than others). And yes, they do sound eerily similar to The Flaming Lips. But I might label this "Flaming Lips Lite" because you don't have to be a fan of their swirling psychedelics to enjoy this. I also feel very guilty for being so judgmental, and almost not listening to this band because of the horrid haircut on the one female in the band. All four of them just have this contrived rock star look, when I'm sure they are all ten times more attractive in their normal look and clothes. I am glad I gave it a go though, because I have really been enjoying this album as background music. The only thing that gets old for me is the distorted guitars that are inevitable around the time each song gets about three quarters of the way in. I give the band the benefit of the doubt, though, because I read somewhere that these songs were created as a soundtrack to their old Super-8 home movies. I selfishly hope that their next album will be less Flaming Lips sound-alike, and more of the sweet and laid back pop sound that I prefer. I feel like I haven't said anything positive about this record but honestly, I do like it! At its best, their music sounds like a modern day Prefab Sprout.

Electric Cinema - I Could Know All Of You
Electric Cinema - Heat Exchange

RIYL: The Flaming Lips, Coldplay, Death Cab For Cutie, Grandaddy

Noah and the Whale

2007-07-14T11:59:00.000-06:00

I have meaning to post about this band for such a long time now, because I do believe I have listened to their song "Rocks and Daggers" at least four dozen times by now. I must admit I am generally very impatient when it comes to songs. I like to be drawn in very quickly and I usually never get into bands that require "repeated listens". But luckily I kept an open ear with this one, because it starts out slow and slightly boring... Then the violin kicks in round the two-minute mark and hooks me. Thirty seconds later, Emmy the Great adds backing vocals and you can't stop me from smiling and singing along. Even when you think the song ends - twice - it starts back up and you are hooked again. I don't even know what to compare it to because it is like some kids got hold of some sticks and boxes and maybe a xylophone and tried to make traditional English folk music.

Noah and the Whale - Rocks and Daggers

RIYL: Jens Lenkman, Emmy The Great, Laura Marling

New Releases - 7.10.07

2007-07-11T10:09:00.000-06:00

This Michigan band was a very pleasant recent discovery for me. Very Decemberists-esque folk rock. Somehow I feel like I've heard all these songs before, and I don't mean that as a bad thing. It's easy on the ears, but never boring.

Great Lakes Myth Society - Midwest Main Street

Oh, sweet troubadour boy... You are such a weakness of mine. The more fragile and precious you are, the better. This album has been out in the UK for some time now, but was just released in the US. Fans of Damien Rice, Nick Drake, Jeff Buckley... Prepare to swoon.

Fionn Regan - The Underwood Typewriter

So, it seems Seattle's Josh Hodges has started going by the moniker "Sexton Blake," maybe because he is ashamed of recording a Milli Vanilli song under his real name? But regardless, I am a sucker for well done cover songs and he has made me happy with an entire album full of them.

Sexton Blake - Bette Davis Eyes

Other honorable mentions for 7.10.07 (so many!! heaven!):

Crowded House - Time On Earth (stunning dream-pop)
Spoon - Ga Ga Ga Ga Ga (loads of fun)
Smashing Pumpkins - Zeitgeist (disappointment mostly)
Justice - Cross (massive dance party)
St. Vincent - Marry Me (eccentric piano pop)
BOAT - Let's Drag Our Feet (left-of-center indie)
Look Mexico - This Is Animal Music (the-good-kind-of-emo)

Taken By Trees

2007-07-09T22:23:00.000-06:00

June 18th saw the release of ex-Concretes lead singer Victoria Bergsman's solo project, Taken By Trees. The album, Open Field, is much more subdued and melancholy than most songs by The Concretes, but still has a lovely quiet feel to it. You can just picture a Volkswagen commercial with a cute yuppie couple driving along in the rain, or possibly stopping for a picnic. Many folks know Victoria as the female counterpart on Peter, Bjorn and John's blog-famous "Young Folks". Her voice is an instrument in itself, with the cutesy phrasing and accent.

Taken By Trees - Lost and Found
Taken By Trees - Too Young

RIYL: Camera Obscura, Hello Saferide, The Concretes, Lucky Soul

BONUS! I will also share my favorite songs from The Concretes when Victoria was a part of the band... "Reverberation" sounds closest to her work in Taken By Trees.

The Concretes - Seems Fine (From 2004's The Concretes)
The Concretes - On The Radio (From 2006's In Colour)
The Concretes - Song For The Songs (From 2006's In Colour)
The Concretes - Reverberation (B-side from 2006's The Chosen One single)

The Concretes have since gone on without Victoria to make Hey Trouble, which is decent in its own right, but pales next to the songs that had Victoria's trademark vocals. For your comparison:

The Concretes - Keep Yours (From 2007's Hey Trouble)

New Releases - 7.3.07

2007-07-05T15:28:00.000-06:00

[Note: You'll have to click on these links... No right click, save as... Filexoom and Fileden are not being friendly lately. Any suggestions?]

Sara Bareilles makes lovely, accessible singer/songwriter piano pop a la Rachel Yamagata or Anna Nalick. I have to admit I have a soft spot for a female singers with pianos, even though I know that's not cool to admit. Even cheesy, cliche lyrics can't scare me away.

Sara Bareilles - Love Song

Every week, I have a new favorite rock band from the UK. Air Traffic is it for this week. Although I do have that soft spot for female singer/songwriters, my soft spot for cute English boys is probably twice as big. Mix Coldplay, The Feeling, and Kaiser Chiefs and you have Air Traffic.

Air Traffic - Shooting Star

Album releases were pathetic this week. So, I'm going to cheat a little and feature the new single from Iron & Wine. I love Sam Beam because he appeals to everyone - both snobby hipsters and casual music fans. His new album (to be released Sept. 25) is supposed to be more "upbeat" so I am anxious to hear it.

Iron & Wine - Boy With A Coin

No honorable mentions for today. Sad.

New Releases - 6.26.07

2007-06-28T19:23:00.000-06:00

[Note: These three releases are great and all, but to be quite honest, I anticipate that the new Kelly Clarkson and the new Ryan Adams will receive far more plays from me. But in the spirit of introducing more unknown artists, I thought it was better not to feature those two albums, excellent as they may be!]

You would never guess that these guys are from Brooklyn, but they are. The Morning Pages make retro-sounding alt-country that sounds like a mix of The Band and The Byrds. Their debut EP The Company You Keep definitely makes them a band to watch for the future.

The Morning Pages - Don't Ask Me

So, if you take The Pipettes and put them in Detriot, you'd have The Gore Gore Girls. This means that The Pipettes would be hardly recognizable as The Pipettes, much tougher, grittier and kick-ass. This song is like surf music meets The Detriot Cobras, and it's an awesome combination.

The Gore Gore Girls - All Grown Up

The band 27 is hindered by several things. First, they are on traditionally metal label Relapse. Second, 27 is an un-Google-able name. Ummm, no third. But that's enough to hold them back when they actually make lovely Mazzy Star-esque spaced out rock. Moody, sweet, and pretty are my unimaginative adjectives for you.

27 - Half Life

Other honorable mentions for today:

Kelly Clarkson - My December (Kelly-is-my-homegirl-and-can-do-no-wrong)
Ryan Adams - Easy Tiger (Ryan Adams is Ryan Adams Again!)
Kelly Willis - Translated From Love (twangy Texas goodness)
Marc Broussard - S.O.S. (kind-of-bland-but-I-like-it cover CD)
Carolina Chocolate Drops - Dona Got A Ramblin' Mind (makes me want to square dance)

The Format

2007-06-25T22:28:00.000-06:00

I have a hard time writing about The Format. Because I know my love for them exceeds what is generally a normal amount of love for a band. In fact, I had to start a new last.fm account because The Format had about 500 plays, surpassing any other artist by at least threefold. My husband is also the culprit for a lot of those plays, but nevermind that we are a nerdy Format-loving couple. I'm not being eloquent at all here, so let me shut up and just copy and paste my favorite review of The Format's second album Dog Problems.

Tired of lamenting the split from a significant other locked in a dark room with Bright Eyes on repeat? Ready to turn that pain into a joyous singalong outside under the bright sun? Lucky for you, Arizona's the Format -- barely appearing phased at being dropped by Atlantic in 2005 -- have arrived with their self-released sophomore full-length, Dog Problems. Sure the album is mostly about singer Nate Ruess' most recent breakup and subsequent broken heart, but seriously, it's hands-down the feel-good album of the summer. After all, the heartache-induced lyrics of sarcasm and bitterness are in direct contrast to the sonic warmth emanating from every note-filled corner. Deftly elaborating on the sweet indie pop affair of 2003's Interventions and Lullabies, the guys have moved past straightforward ditties to craft songs that incorporate a wide range of instruments, tones, and occasionally, full-on orchestrations. "Time Bomb" immediately launches forth with exuberant vocal harmonies before the key-dancing chorus boogies to the front; the ironically catchy "The Compromise" -- which is the defiant result of Atlantic asking for a pop hit -- can be called radio-friendly in the best sense of the term. From a whimsical, carnival-esque air that appears sporadically throughout, the Format mix in horn sections, piano, banjo, handclaps and pretty much whatever else was lying around the studio when recording commenced. But every element is cleanly pulled off with such effortless charm, grace, and style that the songs in no way feel bogged down under the weight of the bands' ambition. The music never sounds forced or like the band is simply trying to be different through gimmicks; they've just matured into a new skin that fits as delightfully as their old. The Format were already showing obvious signs of being unable to write a bad song on Lullabies, but Dog Problems simply glows from beginning to end. It's like the music (both the gentle songs and high-energy ones) just can't help being fun and catchy, even if for some reason it didn't want to. The Format skirts cheesiness and cliché trappings by simply knowing how to make likable pop music that is entertaining and smart -- and they've absolutely never sounded better.
By Corey Apar, taken from allmusic.com

In celebration of the album's first full year in the marketplace, The Format is offering Dog Problems for free on their website (no strings attached). I urge everyone to download my favorite album of 2006 while you can (offer ends July 16th). If you love it, and I know you will, then go see them on their summer tour.

And as a bonus, here are some rare cover songs from The Format:

The Format - The Lottery Song (Bonus Track from Dog Problems - Harry Nilsson cover)
The Format - Apeman (Limited Edition CD Single - The Kinks cover)
The Format - Glutton of Symphony (Limited Edition Vinyl 7" Single - Jellyfish cover)
The Format - Movin' Out (Live at the Marquee Theater - Billy Joel cover)

And, finally, the song that will sell you, even if you refuse to be sold:

The Format - Janet (Studio Recording from the Snails EP)

P.S. Visit Spinner.com for a video and audio podcast from The Format, where you can hear their new song "Swans".

RIYL: The Beatles, XTC, The Shins, Limbeck, Steel Train

Farrah

2007-06-25T14:28:00.000-06:00

Farrah is a UK group that has been making ridiculously catchy power pop since 1999. I mean, completely and insanely catchy. They make the kind of music that you just know would be "big in Japan". "Fear of Flying" is a tribute to the girl that wants to see the world, but is hindered by... you guessed it... Her fear of flying! I love the airplane sound effect and how it whooshes through in stereo! Also, bass player Michelle Margherita shows up doing backing vocals here, and it really adds to the charm of the song. "No Reason Why" is big and fun and would be a hit on Top 40 Radio in a perfect world. Their newest release "Cut Out and Keep" is full of more pop anthems like these along with sweet slow songs.

Farrah - Fear of Flying
Farrah - No Reason Why

RIYL: Fountains of Wayne, Ben Folds, Weezer, Rooney

New Releases - 6.19.07

2007-06-20T11:35:00.000-06:00

This album is all over blogland. Most folks say it's just okay, nothing great. But I diagree. It's perfect for what it is, which is beautifully crafted Americana rock a la Pneumonia-era Whiskeytown. His songs are helped by the fuller sound, complete with B-3, banjo, and harmonica.

Rocky Votolato - Silver Trees

There is such a thin line between electronica and pop music these days, and Misha is an act that blends the two perfectly. They take the beeps and blips and add warm vocals and pop hooks and memorable melodies, and it works so well. It's cute, but not overly so.

Misha - Delovedly

Arthur & Yu is comprised of Grant Olsen and Sonya Westcott from Seattle. Their lazy dream pop has a calming effect on me. It makes me want to ditch the office and head over to the local wave pool, something I haven't wanted to do... Since I was maybe 10? I'm sure I'd change my mind once I got there, but right now it sounds nice.

Arthur & Yu - There Are Too Many Birds

Other honorable mentions for today:

The White Stripes- Icky Thump (blues/rock goodness)
Mandy Moore - Wild Hope (can't-help-but-like-it singer/songwriter pop)
Crisette Michelle - I Am (Corinne Bailey Rae for 2007)
Art Brut - It's A Bit Complicated (tongue-in-cheek rock)
Xavier Rudd - White Moth (Australian Paul Simon sound-a-like)
Dimitri From Paris - Cocktail Disco (fabulous compilation)
Amiina - Kurr (Icelandic magic)
Chromeo - Fancy Footwork (synth-y fun)

So many great new releases this week! I have found that The Yellow Stereo has the best sampling of new releases (with MP3s too!), so check it out.

Back from Bonnaroo

2007-06-18T10:55:00.000-06:00

Because I'm still tired & recovering from this past weekend, I'll just make a list of the highlights from my two days at Bonnaroo (Saturday & Sunday):

- Old Crow Medicine Show, foxy bluegrass boys!
- Regina Spektor, who could not be any more endearing (She made sure to tell the crowd to hydrate often)
- Franz Ferdinand & their excellent showmanship!
- The Police, who I thought would suck, but did not
- The Decemberists performing "The Weight" with Mavis Staples
- Meg White, and everything about her
- The White Stripes doing "Jolene"
- Free popsicles from The Ice Cream Man (My favorite being Mayfield Snow Cream Stix)
- Free Pirate's Booty
- Watching Beatle Bob dance
- No traffic problems
- Managing to NOT get sunburnt (usually I miss a spot or two)

My only complaint is that it was impossible to SEE The White Stripes, but at least we could hear... Also, we went to the wrong tent and saw Ween instead of Spoon (not fun). And, no one sells roasted corn at Bonnaroo. What's up with that? It's my second favorite "fair food" (the Walking Taco tops the list).

Some photos:

Old Crow Medicine Show

Regina Spektor

Damien Rice

Franz Ferdinand

Sting on the Jumbotron

The crowd enjoying The Police's set

The Police's police escort

The Bonnaroo Ferris Wheel

The center of Bonnaroo

The Decemberists

The crowd for the Decemberists

Meg White's drums!

Meg White's chair!

Wilco

Feist

My only glimpse of Jack White

Bonnaroo Bound!

2007-06-14T08:05:00.000-06:00

Yes, that is three guys urinating. I took that photo last year at Bonnaroo, and I'm quite proud of capturing an entire four day festival in just one simple picture. We are going again this year, and I have to admit I'm really looking forward to it. I refuse to do the whole camping thing, so we'll just drive back and forth each day. I'm most looking forward to seeing Regina Spektor, Wilco, Old Crow Medicine Show and Lily Allen.

I made a mix in preparation.

Track List
Regina Spektor - Fidelity
Sonya Kitchell - Let Me Go
Hot Chip - Over And Over
Lily Allen - Smile
Cold War Kids - We Used To Vacation
Xavier Rudd - Messages
The White Stripes - You Don't Know What Love Is (You Just Do As You're Told)
Wilco - Box Full Of Letters
The Decemberists - July, July!
Kings Of Leon - On Call
Damien Rice - Cannonball
Paolo Nutini - These Streets
Snow Patrol Feat. Martha Wainwright - Set The Fire To The Third Bar
Old Crow Medicine Show - Wagon Wheel
Elvis Perkins - All The Night Without Love
The Little Ones - Lovers Who Uncover

Bonnaroo Bound!
(Download All The Songs In One Zip File!)

For more Bonnaroo info, check out the official site.

See you there!

New Releases - 6.12.07

2007-06-13T10:55:00.000-06:00

I loved Polly's debut album Scissors In My Pocket, so I was extremely pleased to find out she has a new one out. The album was mostly written in response to the pain of two miscarriages, so it is intensely personal. Her delicate voice reminds me of Annika Norlin (Hello Saferide) and Gemma Hayes, two of my favorite female singer/songwriters.

Polly Paulusma - Back To The Start

Yet again, I am late on the train. I just started listening to this band, and I am already loving their infectious dance-rock. They have a Brit-rock sound, but are actually from San Francisco. I need to give the new Bravery CD a rest, and I think this will take its place.

Scissors For Lefty - Lay Down Your Weapons

Okay, I had to feature this song, because it shares its name with the radio show my friend Lisa & I had on WRVU a few years ago. The album was inspired by the simple, twinkly sounds of ice cream trucks, and who doesn't love The Ice Cream Truck? It features glockenspiel, melodica, a Casio Tone keyboard, etc. Magical!

Michael Hearst - The Popsicle Parade

Other honorable mentions for today:

Paramore - Riot! (ashamed-I-like-it girl-punk-emo)
Immaculate Machine - Fables (fantastic indie-pop)
Sarah Borges - Diamonds In The Dark (honky-tonk goodness)
Joan As Police Woman - Real Life (soulful singer/songwriter)

New Releases - 6.5.07

2007-06-05T22:14:00.000-06:00

The Loose Salute hail from the UK but their music is straight out of California in the 60s. Very Mamas & Papas (except they have two hot girls instead of one). Formed by Mojave 3 drummer Ian McCutcheon. Fabulous summer music, in the vein of Lucky Soul. Best listened to on ipod poolside.

The Loose Salute - Turn The Radio Up

Matt Pond PA has been making lovely melodic pop for a little while now, even had a song featured on The O.C. This EP is a bit more upbeat, rocks a little harder than their previous stuff. This song sounds like Ben Kweller fronting the Avett Brothers. (Available only on iTunes until June 19.)

Matt Pond PA - Magic Boyfriend

You know, there is such an overload of "this band is the best thing ever" that you sometimes miss out on good, solid stuff. I think I heard "Chicken Payback" and thought The Bees were a novelty band, which they sort of are, but nevertheless make excellent retro music. This song is pure doo-wop goodness.

A Band Of Bees - Listening Man

Other honorable mentions for today:

Paul McCartney - Memory Almost Full (blah blah blah)
Rihanna - Good Girl Gone Bad (my workout music)
Various Artists - Anchored in Love: A Tribute to June Carter Cash (mixed bag)
Ladybug Transistor - Can't Wait Another Day (solid lo-fi pop)
Dappled Cities - Granddance (Australian indie-pop)

Adele

2007-06-04T22:54:00.000-06:00

Adele, although just out of school and only 18, certainly has friends in the right places at the moment. Lily Allen recommended her song "Daydreamer" to Rolling Stone magazine, calling it "amazing". To show how very young she is, you can actually download her scat-flavored song "My Same" from her school project website from when she was a senior at The Brit School. Adele is like Amy Winehouse if Amy drank a bit less and grew up listening to more Etta (James and Fitzgerald). Her voice is the selling point here. It is jazzy, hypnotic and nuanced and no doubt rare for someone her age. I am definitely looking forward to hearing more from her. She has been signed to XL recently (along with her friend Jack Peñate).

Adele - Daydreamer
Adele - Hometown Glory (Live)

RIYL: Jill Scott, India.Arie, Norah Jones, Amy Winehouse

Jack Penate

2007-06-04T21:03:00.000-06:00

I can't remember where I first read about Jack Peñate, but he seems to be destined for big things this year. He has a deal with XL Recordings and makes irresistibly catchy pop songs, if a bit hyper-active and all over the map. He has become known for his dance style, which is a little rockabilly and 100% cute if you swoon over British boys like I do. There is not a release date for a full-length yet but you can get the Spit at Stars EP, which I have been enjoying for a few weeks now. Just when you think you have him pegged, he surprises you with a tender ballad like "My Yvonne". I discovered my next featured artist, Adele, when I sought out the name of the female singing with him on "My Yvonne". I really dig the xylophone on "Spit At Stars" - a nice touch.

Jack Peñate - Spit At Stars
Jack Peñate - My Yvonne (w/ Adele on backing vocals)

RIYL: Jamie T, Good Shoes, Larrikin Love, Kid Harpoon

Sinful Sunday: Boy Meets Girl

2007-06-03T21:52:00.000-06:00

Guilty Pleasure Time! You can either hate this song for its unabashed cheese factor, or you can choose to embrace it. I am in the latter camp, but then again I have always been able to appreciate a perfectly made pop song such as "Waiting For A Star To Fall". The duo of Boy Meets Girl consists of married couple Shannon Rubican and George Merrill. Not only did they write and perform this gem but they also wrote the Whitney Houston hits "How Will I Know" and "I Wanna Dance With Somebody (Who Loves Me)". I know it's crazy, because I was only ten years old, but I actually remember first hearing this song in the movie theater in the classic "Three Men and a Little Lady" (yes, the sequel to "Three Men and a Baby"). Tom Selleck is so dreamy, right? Anyway, this song is pure pop perfection in every way. Gives me goosebumps, honestly. I guess I'm not the only one who loves it... The song has been remixed and/or sampled three times in the past few years. My favorite one is by Mylo, because it manages to include a sample from "Bette Davis Eyes" and mix it seamlessly with "Waiting For A Star To Fall". You know you love it.

Boy Meets Girl - Waiting For A Star To Fall (from 1988's Reel Life)
Mylo - In My Arms (from the BBC Radio One Live Lounge)

New Releases - 5.29.06

2007-06-02T11:41:00.000-06:00

I'm sorry for the lack of posts, oh Dear Reader (yes, you, my one lone reader). I've been out of town, work has been busy, I celebrated a birthday, etc. Excuses. But I do have loads of new music to write about, which I intend to catch up on over the weekend.

Mumm-Ra are a recent discovery for me, and a joyful one indeed. Their brand of shimmering indie pop is some of the most listenable music I've heard in a while. James New's vocals are sweet and innocent, and the music sounds a bit like Voxtrot mixed with The Kooks and The Killers.

Mumm-Ra - These Things Move In Threes

You might remember Cary Brothers (not brothers actually, one guy named Cary Brothers) from two Zach Braff movies. This album is full of gorgeous singer/songwriter fare for the quieter times. If you are hyper-cynical about your music, maybe this is not for you. But the rest of us are free to enjoy the lovely sounds of Cary Brothers.

Cary Brothers - Honestly

Country-fied version of Juliana Hatfield, playing here with Austin band Frank Smith. This six song EP is full of banjos and steel guitar and sounds like a more quirky, female fronted Whiskeytown. Basically, it's the Juliana Hatfield you would expect, but with twang.

Juliana Hatfield and Frank Smith - Don't Wanna Be The One

Other honorable mentions for today:

The Moonbabies - Moonbabies at the Ballroom (Swedish indie-pop)
The Magic Bullets - a CHILD but in life yet a DOCTOR in love (typical Smiths/Talking Heads/Joy Division-influenced post-punk)
Piano Magic - Part Monster (okay shoegaze)
Boy In Static - Violet (Death Cab-ish rock)

New Releases - 5.22.07

2007-05-22T20:45:00.000-06:00

What is there to say about Voxtrot that has not been said already? It seems everyone loves Voxtrot, with good reason. They have taken everything good about Belle & Sebastian and made them into a more marketable, accessible band. Where B&S are simply too twee at times, Voxtrot is not afraid to rock out a bit. A favorite for me.

Voxtrot - Every Day

The Maccabees don't do much to stand out from other British rock bands at the moment, but they are still quite enjoyable and have been praised by NME & others. This song in particular struck me as super cute and sweet and not at all like The Arctic Monkeys or The Klaxons or whoever.

The Maccabees - Toothpaste Kisses

Featuring this album is cheating a little, since the album The Swell Season has been out for some time now and features several of the same songs. Together, Glen Hansard (of the Frames) and Markéta Irglová made an album that is so beautiful and full of emotion. The movie "Once" is now out in limited release and stars both Glen and Markéta. If you enjoy the duo of Damien Rice and Lisa Hannigan, be prepared to fall in love with Glen and Markéta.

Glen Hansard & Markéta Irglová - Falling Slowly

Other honorable mentions for today:

Maroon 5 - It Won't Be Soon Before Long (80s flavored pop)
Erasure - Light At The End Of The World (still-doesn't-compare-to-The-Innocents dance pop)
The National - Boxer (too-dreary-for-me rock)
The Bravery - The Sun And The Moon (no-longer-synth-band upbeat rock)
Meg Baird - Dear Companion (traditional-sounding folk)

Sinful Sunday: Gabrielle

2007-05-20T18:17:00.000-06:00

I think I'm going to start a new feature called "Sinful Sunday". I don't really believe in music as a "guilty pleasure" because I honestly don't feel ashamed for any of the music I like. But that said, I think it would be good to have a place to put songs that are purely for fun. Nothing deep or intellectual. And what better artist to feature for my first "Sinful Sunday" than British pop star Gabrielle? I first heard Gabrielle back in middle school. I went to London in '94 and came back obsessed with everything British. I bought Smash Hits magazine every time my parents would drive me to Tower Books. I am pretty sure that is how I was first exposed to Gabrielle's music. I do remember that I listened to the song "Dreams" hundreds of times. I still think it is a brilliant song. It only reached number 26 on the U.S. charts but broke records in the UK as the highest chart entry for a new female artist. I didn't think about Gabrielle for a long time, until finding her album Rise in a bargain bin several years ago. I have no qualms admitting that I have listened to it dozens of times since. I was reminded of it yesterday when I heard "Falling" whilst shopping in PetSmart. Gabrielle has a droopy eyelid so she is often seen wearing an eye patch, which makes her even more kickass in my book. She also wears sunglasses or sports a hair do that covers her eye. I read that she covered "Driftwood" by Travis and so I am on a mission to find her version of it. Her music is so perfect for a relaxing, sunny day by the pool. It is soulful pop music at its best. Her cover of Dionne Warwick's "Walk On By" is absolutely lovely too. Sometimes the U.S. just doesn't get it when it comes to good pop music. Actually, make that most of the time.

Gabrielle - Dreams (From 1993's Find Your Way)
Gabrielle - Falling (From 2000's Rise)
Gabrielle - Give Me A Little More Time (From 2001's Dreams Can Come True: Greatest Hits, Vol. 1)
Gabrielle - Walk On By (From 2001's Dreams Can Come True: Greatest Hits, Vol. 1: Special Edition)

RIYL: Janet Jackson, Amy Winehouse, Lisa Stansfield, Diana Ross

Dawn Landes

2007-05-20T13:41:00.000-06:00

A few people have posted about Dawn Landes covering Peter Bjorn & John's "Young Folks". The You Tube video has already been viewed over 18,000 times. I first heard the song without seeing the video and so I kept wondering why she added the annoying backing vocalists. Now I realize they are "Old Folks"... Cute. The first time I heard Dawn's music was during the movie Winter Passing. Her cover of "Young Folks" is a nice novelty track and will hopefully introduce more people to her music. She is originally from Louisville, KY but currently resides in NYC where she is a recording engineer for artists like Hem, Joseph Arthur and Ryan Adams. She is a multi-instrumentalist; she's got skills playing the accordion, glockenspiel, optigan & more. These are the two songs that were featured on the Winter Passing soundtrack.

Dawn Landes - The Kissing Song
Dawn Landes - You Alone

RIYL: Hem, Beth Orton, Joanna Newsom, Cat Power

The Young Republic

2007-05-19T07:57:00.000-06:00

I've been meaning to write about The Young Republic for some time now, but just never got around to it (oh yes, the most common fib by blogger-types!). I was reminded of them because they were in town last night for a show at The 5 Spot and an in-store at Grimey's. I didn't go to either because I wanted to stay in... You'd think I was 60 instead of 26. Anyway, I first read about the band over on Another Form of Relief. I didn't immediately listen to the songs, but when I did, I think iTunes was just set on random. I heard the song "Modern Plays" and immediately checked to see the name of the band. Then I went to their website and turns out I worked at Tower Records (RIP) with the band's lead singer and main songwriter, Julian Saporiti, who was likely just in high school at the time. I only worked at Tower one day a week (mainly for the discounts!), so I only vaguely knew him and I doubt he'd remember me. Regardless, I definitely enjoy the band's Mozart/Debussy influenced Beatles-meets-Belle-and-Sebastian style of music. According to their site, they formed one day in the cafeteria during freshman year at Berklee in Boston. You can find more MP3s on their official site. The chorus to "Blue Skies" sounds eerily similar to "New Slang" by The Shins. You can get the 7-inch single here or purchase their full length albums here.

The Young Republic - Modern Plays
The Young Republic - Blue Skies
The Young Republic - Girl In A Tree

Bonus! The Daily Growl has a live set from the WOXY Lounge.

RIYL: Belle & Sebastian, Camera Obscura, Arcade Fire, Voxtrot

New Releases - 5.15.07

2007-05-15T22:13:00.000-06:00

I feel like Trading Twilight for Daylight is one of those albums I will revisit many times and always discover something new with each listen. The songs are densely layered pop... I love that they aren't afraid to have this big melodic sound with big arrangements and big epic choruses!

Great Northern - Our Bleeding Hearts

The Avett Brothers are like a punk band that has been transported back in time to the days of Uncle Dave Macon. They make old-timey music that somehow sounds contemporary. They are hard to categorize but I'd recommend them to fans of Old Crow Medicine Show and the like.

The Avett Brothers - Will You Return?

Tom McRae consistently releases excellent singer/songwriter folk rock, and somehow goes mostly unnoticed. King of Cards is his fourth album, and it is a must buy for fans of Travis, Badly Drawn Boy and Ed Harcourt. His voice is unique, at times you might mistake him for a girl.

Tom McRae - Bright Lights

Other honorable mentions for today:

Wilco - Sky Blue Sky (alt-country again)
Rufus Wainwright - Release the Stars (cabaret pop)
Pink Martini - Hey Eugene (worldly jazzy pop)
Dungen - Tio Bitar (Swedish psychedelic rock)
The Horrors - Strange House (snarling garage)

Land of Talk

2007-05-14T16:06:00.000-06:00

I hate when I find out about a band long after everyone else. But I guess better late than never, right? I have a tendency to judge bands by their name, thinking "oh that sounds like some new generic blog-rock band" and then I'll assume that they will be forgotten in a months time. I remember hearing the name Land of Talk but never took a chance to listen to the actual songs. What a mistake! Elizabeth Powell's vocals have been described as "snotty yet sensitive at the same time". Their mini-album Applause Cheer Boo Hiss takes the "riot-grrl" attitude and melds it with the best indie sounds of late. Loads of fun... I can't wait to hear a proper album from them!

Land of Talk - Magnetic Hill
Land of Talk - Speak To Me Bones

Bonus! Chromewaves has a live set from the WOXY Lounge.

RIYL: Metric, Tegan & Sara, The Cardigans, PJ Harvey, Cat Power

The Cinematic Orchestra

2007-05-14T13:50:00.000-06:00

I wrote about Patrick Watson about a month ago, and now he has reappeared for an absolutely breaktaking collaboration with The Cinematic Orchestra. I've never been much into "ambient" or "chillout" music, which is what The Cinematic Orchestra is generally filed under... But their new album Ma Fleur reaches outside of that genre and should appeal to a much broader audience. The album was written as a "soundtrack" to an imaginary film and each song has a coordinating photo. This song, in particular, is heartbreakingly beautiful.

The Cinematic Orchestra (feat. Patrick Watson) - To Build a Home (Radio Edit)

RIYL: Magnet, Antony & The Johnsons, Jeff Buckley, Tom McRae

Mother Mother

2007-05-10T20:59:00.000-06:00

It seems Canadian band Mother Mother has been stumping a lot of people lately. No one can figure out what genre they belong to. I'm going to classify them as pop, simply because their music is fun and upbeat and playful. But it is completely wacky pop with elements of bluegrass, folk, country, jazz, punk and in certain songs even mariachi and hip-hop (yes, really). By reading a description of this band, I would have guessed that I would have hated it. On paper, it sounds like music that is just too eccentric for its own good (probably my least favorite kind of music). But after listening to the entire album, I am definitely a fan. Yes, it is out there, but it's also somehow accessible and infectious. Their debut album, Touch Up, is out now on Last Gang Records.

Mother Mother - Polynesia
Mother Mother - Oh Ana

RIYL: The Ditty Bops, The White Stripes, Old Crow Medicine Show, Regina Spektor

New Releases - 5.8.07

2007-05-08T21:55:00.000-06:00

My first reaction when hearing this song was "THE MONKEES!". I'm sure this wasn't the intended response, but honestly Alasdair Maclean sounds just like Davy Jones here. The album is very Beatles-esque, and yet also very 70s/AM easy listening too. Recorded in Nashville with Lambchop's Mark Nevers.

The Clientele - Here Comes the Phantom

I don't see how anyone could dislike Travis. Maybe you don't love them, but you can't hate them. The Boy With No Name is Travis doing what they do best. Lovely, melodic rock with Fran Healy's sweet Scottish accent making you swoon... Perfect for lazy summer days.

Travis - Sailing Away (Bonus Track)

Alsace Lorraine released their second album today after a six years. On this album, Chicagoan Paul Franke pairs up with Argentinian illustrator Isol. The result is a breezy, quiet album that brings to mind a soundtrack from a 1980s John Hughes movie.

Alsace Lorraine - Call For Papers (Ian Catt Mix)

Other honorable mentions for today:

Keren Ann - Keren Ann (sexy French vocals)
Bjork - Volta (you know, Bjork)
Lavender Diamond - Imagine Our Love (Joanna Newsom-lite)
Page France - And The Family Telephone (whimsical indie)
Maxïmo Park - Our Earthly Pleasures (solid Britpop)

Sarah Borges and the Broken Singles

2007-05-07T12:00:00.000-06:00

It has been a long time since I've been hit so quickly by a new artist. I was lucky enough to get an advance copy of the new album from Sarah Borges, and I have already listened to it four times today. I feel like I've been featuring a ton of female artists recently but if you only listen to one, make it this one! This is not your typical "chick-music". Sarah is based in Boston and actually has a day job in the admissions office at Berklee School of Music... I would say not for much longer, though. Her new album Diamons in the Dark is set for release on Sugar Hill Records on June 12th. It's like rockabilly and blues and country and americana and punk all mixed together and I just cannot get enough of it. Sarah's voice is raw and sweet all at the same time. I guarantee that after one listen to the first single "The Day We Met," you will feel forced to listen to it on repeat at least twenty times. At least that's what I did.

Sarah Borges - The Day We Met
Sarah Borges - Belle of the Bar

RIYL: Lucinda Williams, Sarah Harmer, Maria McKee, Lori McKenna, Kasey Chambers

1990s

2007-05-04T11:59:00.000-06:00

The 1990s are a ridiculously fun new band out of Glasgow. Do not listen if you are looking for something serious or life-altering. With lyrics like "You are my boogaloo, you wear my favorite shoes," you wouldn't expect anything more than the silly ear candy that it is. They also have a song titled "Hayley Mills" which makes them even more awesome in my book. Bernard Butler of Suede produced their debut album, which is titled Cookies and will be released on Rough Trade this coming Monday in the UK.

1990s - See You At The Lights

RIYL: Franz Ferdinand, The Yummy Fur, The Pigeon Detectives, The Boo Radleys, Mando Diao

Lay Low

2007-05-03T21:26:00.000-06:00

I just sat through a horrid episode of Grey's Anatomy (I feel like I was totally duped into watching a crap pilot episode of "Addison's New Life In LA"). Not sure why I bother with the show anymore, but it comes on after The Office, so it's convenient, at least. Anyway, I was reminded of my discovery from an incredible trip to Iceland over New Year's (please, just go, if you ever have the chance!) - Lovisa Elisabet Sigrunardottir, better known as Lay Low. I had to be really careful about buying CDs in Iceland, because they were around $25 with the exchange rate. I only bought two: this one and the new release from Ampop. Lay Low won the award for Best Female Artist in the 2006 Icelandic Music Awards, for her debut album Please Don't Hate Me. So, now, thanks to Grey's Anatomy, despicable or not, millions have been introduced to "Iceland's Answer to Cat Power". There is something endearing and simple and just plain lovely about her music. It will always remind me of being scared for my life, driving in a Toyota Yaris rental, on icy roads in the middle-of-nowhere Iceland.

Lay Low - Home
Lay Low - I'll Try

Visit the ultimate Icelandic Music shop, Smekkleysa, to buy her album and for a free download of her song "Boy Oh Boy".

RIYL: Cat Power, Neko Case, Jolie Holland, Feist

Candie Payne

2007-05-03T11:11:00.000-06:00

Candie Payne was pretty much destined to go into music, with one brother in The Zutons and another in the (sadly) defunct band The Stands. She was born in Liverpool, but raised in NYC, then moved back to the UK for her teens. She makes stylish, jazzy "pop-noir" in the style of 60's spy movie soundtracks. She looks just like Françoise Hardy, don't you think? Her debut album I Wish I Could Have Loved You More is set to be released on May 21st in the UK on Deltasonic.

Candie Payne - All I Need To Hear
Candie Payne - I Wish

RIYL: Dusty Springfield, Nancy Sinatra, Cilla Black, Amy Winehouse, St. Etienne