2013 Music Thread

[Ron Brand]

Hell yeah I'll kick it off. Jack Oblivian and the Tennessee Tearjerkers at Hotel Vegas in Austin, January 18. Be there or be L-fuckin-7, dammit.

[Ebby Calvin]

Tom Waits & Keith Richards perform Shenandoah (scroll down to click the individual song)

Yo La Tengo's new album Fade is streaming here.

[Guinness]

new Bowie coming out in March...  New video.  Not sure what I think of the song, sounds like one you need to hear in an album context. 

[Ron Brand]

I was at Alejandro's truly epic birthday party/career retrospective last night - easily one of the best shows I've ever witnessed - and he said the Troobs are reuniting for SXSW and will "tour a little."

[chuck]

I was at Alejandro's truly epic birthday party/career retrospective last night - easily one of the best shows I've ever witnessed - and he said the Troobs are reuniting for SXSW and will "tour a little."

Do you have any idea if they're planning a DVD release?

[Ron Brand]

Do you have any idea if they're planning a DVD release?

Of last night's show? I know they shot it and heard they were planning a DVD but I don't know any particulars yet. It was 3 1/2 hours long, three sets plus encores. Spectacular is an inadequate description.

[Ebby Calvin]

Do you have any idea if they're planning a DVD release?

Don't know anything about this, but in movie news Big Star: Nothing Can Hurt Me will be getting a theatrical release this year.

[chuck]

Don't know anything about this, but in movie news Big Star: Nothing Can Hurt Me will be getting a theatrical release this year.

Ron, yes, last night. I'd love to have a disc of that.

Ebby, yes, I've been eyeing that anxiously.

[Ron Brand]

Last night's set list:

Set I
Paradise
Five Hearts Breaking
One More Time
Hollywood Hills
Rosalie
Wave
Why It Goes
Follow You Down
About This Love

Set II
Helpless w/Jon Dee Graham
The Rain Won't Help You When It's Over w/Jon Dee Graham
Ballad of the Sun & Moon w/Rosie Flores
Velvet Guitar w/Rosie Flores
I Was Drunk w/Terry Allen
Broken Bottle w/Terry Allen
Amsterdam w/Karla Manzur
She Doesn't Live Here Anymore w/Patricia Vonne
I Died A Little Today w/Amy Cook
Notes On Air w/Amy Cook

Set III
Castanets
Put You Down
Rhapsody
Arizona
Chip & Tony
Baby's Got New Plans
Chelsea Hotel '78
Sensitive Boys
Boys Keep Swinging
Gravity/Falling Down Again/Street Hassle

Encore
Always A Friend

Music by the Sensitive Boys, plus Brian Standefer, cello; Susan Voelz, violin; Mike Flannigan, B3; Ephraim Owens, trumpet; Elias Haslanger, sax; Stephen Barber, piano; the Sensitive Youth Choir, made up of three elementary school choirs, all under the musical direction of Charlie Sexton.

[chuck]

Last night's set list:

Wow.

[Col. Sphinx Drummond]

Thing about Al is, everything he does is good if not great.

[Ron Brand]

Thing about Al is, everything he does is good if not great.

And he didn't write squat until the end of the True Believers. It's like a dam breaking, the amount of great work he's written since then.

Of course, it's not like he hasn't had a lot to draw upon, but he's done so much with that.

[Ron Brand]

Coupla vids from Saturday night have popped up.

Rosie Flores, Velvet Guitar

Falling Down/Gravity/Street Hassle

[Ron Brand]

Nice writeup in the Austin Chronicle about the show.

[Ron Brand]

And more YouTubes.

The Rain Won't Help You When It's Over

Chelsea Hotel '78

Arizona

[GreatBagwellsBeard]

Friend of a friend is getting a record label started in Muscle Shoals, and here's his first signee: St. Paul & The Broken Bones

That white boy can sing like 7/10ths of Otis.  Not bad.

[Ebby Calvin]

The Joy Formidable - Wolf's Law is pretty fun on the first listen.

Standout tracks are "Tendons," "Silent Treatment" and "Forest Serenade."

[Ebby Calvin]

Also, The Lone Bellow - s/t is fucking great.  I posted a link to "Two Sides of Lonely" in the 2012 thread, and the album came out today.  They describe themselves as Brooklyn Country Music.

[drew corleone]

The Lone Bellow is the only new album I have heard yet this year and I agree with you. I listened to it about three times through a few weeks ago when it debuted on NPR's First Listen. And thanks for the reminder on the Joy Formidable.. I have liked their stuff in the past.

[Ron Brand]

Brooklyn country music.

[Bench]

Brooklyn country music.

Speaking of which, has anyone been to the Brooklyn Athletic Club over on Richmond?  I've heard good things about it, but I'll miss Zimm's Little Deck, primarily for the grilled oysters and the most magnificent bathroom to grace a Montrose bar.

[Ebby Calvin]

Grizzly Bear just added a run through Texas (Dallas 4/6 - Palladium, Austin 4/8 - Stubb's, Houston 4/9 - House of Blues).  Turns out to be the exact night of the Sigur Ros concert.

DarkStar - what do I do??

[Bench]

Grizzly Bear just added a run through Texas (Dallas 4/6 - Palladium, Austin 4/8 - Stubb's, Houston 4/9 - House of Blues).  Turns out to be the exact night of the Sigur Ros concert.

DarkStar - what do I do??

I saw Sigur Ros in 2002 or 2003 at the Avalon in Boston and it wasn't a particularly great live musical experience, though it was funny having to whisper my drink order at the bar and watching young women weep at the tragic beauty of the music.  The Boston PD working security looked particularly perplexed at the whole scene.  The only thing the band said the entire night was a quiet "Takk" at the end of the show. 

I think Sigur Ros is a better studio band than live band and listening to their albums cranked up on headphones in a dark room is a much more worthwhile endeavor.

[GreatBagwellsBeard]

Also, The Lone Bellow - s/t is fucking great.  I posted a link to "Two Sides of Lonely" in the 2012 thread, and the album came out today.  They describe themselves as Brooklyn Country Music.

I'm about halfway through the album, and it feels like Sugarland/Lady Antebellum playing their own instruments.  Not really feeling it.

[Ebby Calvin]

I'm about halfway through the album, and it feels like Sugarland/Lady Antebellum playing their own instruments.  Not really feeling it.

Them's fightin' words, skinny jeans boy.

Of course, I've never heard either of those bands (aside from that one song), so maybe....

[GreatBagwellsBeard]

Them's fightin' words, skinny jeans boy.

Of course, I've never heard either of those bands (aside from that one song), so maybe....

It's just awfully polished and produced.  And they're slim, not skinny.

[Guinness]

It's just awfully polished and produced.  And they're slim, not skinny.

Are they acid washed? Those are cool.

[Col. Sphinx Drummond]

Are they acid washed? Those are cool.

Stoned washed.

[toddthebod]

I have been listening a lot to the first full length CD from Fidlar.  Really good California surf punk. 

[JimR]

I have been listening a lot to the first full length CD from Fidlar.  Really good California surf punk. 

there are about 8 oxymorons in the last sentence.

[strosrays]

DarkStar - what do I do??

I saw Sigur Ros in 2002 or 2003 at the Avalon in Boston and it wasn't a particularly great live musical experience, though it was funny having to whisper my drink order at the bar and watching young women weep at the tragic beauty of the music.  The Boston PD working security looked particularly perplexed at the whole scene.  The only thing the band said the entire night was a quiet "Takk" at the end of the show.  

I think Sigur Ros is a better studio band than live band and listening to their albums cranked up on headphones in a dark room is a much more worthwhile endeavor.

To be clear, I have nothing against quiet, introspective artists (sometimes.) I will admit I am less tolerant of over-hyped, hopelessly pretentious ones.

[NeilT]

I listened to a Sigur Ros live concert once. Part of it anyway.

[Ron Brand]

Bob Mould at the Mohawk in Austin, April 20 for $17. Only Texas appearance on this tour so far.

[NeilT]

I bought Yo La Tengo's Fade, which is very good and the first 2013 release that I think I've bought, but which more importantly brought up their name, which has to do with the 1962 Mets:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elio_Chac%C3%B3n

Great story.

[chuck]

Bob Mould at the Mohawk in Austin, April 20 for $17. Only Texas appearance on this tour so far.

I followed the link you put on your FB page and noticed that one of the people commenting on one or another of Bob's posts on his front page was a guy I knew years ago in DC. He'd commented like 20 minutes before I got there. He is by far the craziest person I have ever known. Not haha isn't he offbeat crazy but goddamn that guy needs to be shackled up somewhere crazy. George is his name. His father was the mayor of Martinsburg, West Virginia. He may still be for all I know.

I used to manage a map store a couple of blocks from the White House. All the goosesteppers who run things now post 9-11 might have cleaned things up but back then DC and specifically that part of town was a lunatic's paradise. I imagine only Jerusalem can compete with downtown DC for number of kooks per square meter. There were all sorts of crackpots, conspiracy theorists, victims of government sponsored mind-control experiments gone haywire, drunks, halfwits, schizophrenics and just the generally unhinged wandering freely about, and at some point or another each of them found his or her way into my store. Usually they made themselves comfortable and stuck around. My personal favorite lunatic, a fine fellow named Stefan (who apparently was owed several billion dollars by Lyndon Johnson and Warren Burger) would come into the store once a week to purchase a softcover student's atlas which he would proceed to correct, drawing in colorful countries, their boundaries and flags as well as some random commentary on the peoples inhabiting these various territories. Acky-Kakacky, Red Indian, Tiger-Leon were three of the many races  existing in his wonderlands.

Anyway, all these fuckers were far more capable of moving in and out of society than George is. I was most alarmed to discover that George now works in a private Florida secondary school.

[strosrays]

There were all sorts of crackpots, conspiracy theorists, victims of government sponsored mind-control experiments gone haywire, drunks, halfwits, schizophrenics and just the generally unhinged wandering freely about ...

Out of this group have emerged several of my close friends/associates, and at least one of your potential girlfriends.

[Ty in Tampa]

Out of this group have emerged several of my close friends/associates, and at least one of your potential girlfriends.

She smells it on him.

[chuck]

Out of this group have emerged several of my close friends/associates, and at least one of your potential girlfriends.

Well, I did end up going out with this girl who worked around the corner, a red-haired beauty who casually swept the empty Olympia beer cans and a Marshall Tucker Band cassette off the passenger seat so I could sit down the first time I went somewhere with her. But she wasn't crazy, not really. Although she did move to Denver by literally picking it out of a hat containing six cities or so. She's divorced and living in Baltimore now.

I have mentioned elsewhere how George introduced me to Kristen CDE but he never really had anything to do with the store. He was also friends with another girl I went out with for a while, also crazy, a painter, also now employed teaching unsuspecting children of Montgomery County. I remember her walking up the sidewalk to my house once in the snow. She had somehow tied plastic bags around her feet so she could walk around without getting snow into her combat boots which surely had holes all over the place. She was singing the I Don't Want to Grow Up Toys R Us song. She was 33 at the time if I recall correctly. I was 25 or so and the age difference was SCANDALOUS to my friends. (The last time I checked in with KCDE she was living literally directly across the street from this place. Back then it was only idiots like me, lunatics like Crazy Painter and gun wielding psychopaths. Now there's an Office Depot right around the corner.) One day I was standing out in Farragut Square taking a break from the excitement inside the store when Crazy Painter skidded up on a Pee Wee Herman style bike. I didn't know she could ride a bike. I'm a bike messenger now! she exclaimed. Oh no, I thought. Sure enough not a week later she was seriously injured when hit by a cab. I heard all about it through George.

The last direct contact I had with him was years ago. For some reason I prank called him anonymously and told him I wanted to donate a van to the arts foundation he was working for at the time. Predictably this set off a wildfire of paranoia and left him quite shaken. I felt bad about it for quite a while.

[austro]

Well, I did end up going out with this girl who worked around the corner, a red-haired beauty who casually swept the empty Olympia beer cans and a Marshall Tucker Band cassette off the passenger seat so I could sit down the first time I went somewhere with her. But she wasn't crazy, not really. Although she did move to Denver by literally picking it out of a hat containing six cities or so. She's divorced and living in Baltimore now.

I have mentioned elsewhere how George introduced me to Kristen CDE but he never really had anything to do with the store. He was also friends with another girl I went out with for a while, also crazy, a painter, also now employed teaching unsuspecting children of Montgomery County. I remember her walking up the sidewalk to my house once in the snow. She had somehow tied plastic bags around her feet so she could walk around without getting snow into her combat boots which surely had holes all over the place. She was singing the I Don't Want to Grow Up Toys R Us song. She was 33 at the time if I recall correctly. I was 25 or so and the age difference was SCANDALOUS to my friends. (The last time I checked in with KCDE she was living literally directly across the street from this place. Back then it was only idiots like me, lunatics like Crazy Painter and gun wielding psychopaths. Now there's an Office Depot right around the corner.) One day I was standing out in Farragut Square taking a break from the excitement inside the store when Crazy Painter skidded up on a Pee Wee Herman style bike. I didn't know she could ride a bike. I'm a bike messenger now! she exclaimed. Oh no, I thought. Sure enough not a week later she was seriously injured when hit by a cab. I heard all about it through George.

The last direct contact I had with him was years ago. For some reason I prank called him anonymously and told him I wanted to donate a van to the arts foundation he was working for at the time. Predictably this set off a wildfire of paranoia and left him quite shaken. I felt bad about it for quite a while.

Your world is delightfully entertaining to a lowly engineer like me.

[JimR]

Your world is delightfully entertaining to a lowly engineer like me.

he is the poor man's Dark Star.

[Ron Brand]

Tuesday, April 30 at Stubb's, Patti Smith. Only Texas show scheduled so far.

If you haven't seen her, you're going to kick yourself for it when she's gone. An incredibly important performer.

[jbm]

Wow.  Thank you so much for that link. Two titans I never imagined performing together on stage.

[geezerdonk]

How's the mole?

[Ebby Calvin]

Frightened Rabbit and My Bloody Valentine's new albums are out.  Haven't heard either yet.

[drew corleone]

I listened to FR a few times through last week and enjoyed it.

Also listened a few times through Thao and the Get Down Stay Down... I saw her a few times at SXSW back in 09 and liked her live performance more than her recorded stuff, but this is pretty good.

I think that Jim James album sucks. That's based on one listen, but I'm not sure I can bring myself to give it another whirl.

[Ty in Tampa]

I think that Jim James album sucks.

Macho Business Donkey Wrestler?

[Ebby Calvin]

Macho Business Donkey Wrestler?

No, silly.  It's Super Karate Monkey Death Car

[GreatBagwellsBeard]

I like the new MBV, but there are some clunkers on there, too.

And sue me: I like the new Timberlake single.  Looking forward to the new album.

[Ebby Calvin]

And sue me: I like the new Timberlake single.  Looking forward to the new album.

I'm with you on this.  He usually has really good production on his solo stuff.  Guilty pleasure I guess.

[Col. Sphinx Drummond]

Richard Thompson's new album, Electric is excellent. One of his best ever IMO. I've also been digging on Ben Harper's new collabo with Charlie Musselwhite, Get Up!

[drew corleone]

Foxygen and Guards are two that I have listened to a lot this week.

[Ebby Calvin]

Foxygen and Guards are two that I have listened to a lot this week.

Thanks for these.  Both solid records.

Atoms For Peace (Thom Yorke, Flea, etc) is now streaming online here and other places.  Album due next week I think.  I liked my first listen.

Phoenix's new single "Entertainment" was released today via YouTube.  Album due in April. Really looking forward to this one, I loved Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix.

[subnuclear]

Richard Thompson's new album, Electric is excellent. One of his best ever IMO.

I listened to this today at work. The songs are pretty good and he plays the living shit out of his guitar on it if you like that sort of thing.

[GreatBagwellsBeard]

Push The Sky Away, the new one from Nick Cave (w/ Bad Seeds) is much more mellow than Dig Lazarus Dig, and definitely more sedate than Grinderman, but it's really good and thoughtful.  Liking "Mermaids" in particular.

[drew corleone]

Appreciate the AfP streaming link... I heard one of the tracks yesterday on KUTX and was intrigued.

[Ron Brand]

The Ballad of the True Believers.

[Ebby Calvin]

68% of Big Star fans have taken a naughty picture or video of themselves.

Interesting site, although most likely 100% bullshit.

[chuck]

68% of Big Star fans have taken a naughty picture or video of themselves.

Interesting site, although most likely 100% bullshit.

I think it says that 68% of Big Star fans have not taken such a picture. Which is probably pretty good news thinking back on the various Big Star shows I saw.

[Ebby Calvin]

I think it says that 68% of Big Star fans have not taken such a picture. Which is probably pretty good news thinking back on the various Big Star shows I saw.

Well shit.  Me fail English?

[Col. Sphinx Drummond]

Push The Sky Away, the new one from Nick Cave (w/ Bad Seeds) is much more mellow than Dig Lazarus Dig, and definitely more sedate than Grinderman, but it's really good and thoughtful.  Liking "Mermaids" in particular.

I'm starting to like this one. I always figured Nick had to be a fan of Leonard Cohen.

[Ron Brand]

The new Jimi Hendrix disc.

Holy shit. Holy motherfucking shit.

[Guinness]

I'm starting to like this one. I always figured Nick had to be a fan of Leonard Cohen.

That's good to hear, from you and GBB.  Ithink I'll pick this one up.
Kind of on the fence for Atoms;  I really like Thom Yorke (i honestly believe he is a genius), but I really have to be in the mood for his stuff or Radiohead.
Also waiting on the new Bowie, which is streaming for free on iTunes if anyone is interested.  Sounds like a good one.

[Ebby Calvin]

I've been really enjoying Local Natives - Hummingbird lately.  It's very much a grower and well worth repeated listens.  Favorite tracks: Heavy Feet, Three Months (beautiful), Black Balloons, Wooly Mammoth.

And I'd be remiss for not immediately commenting after reading a Radiohead post, so...yeah.  Atoms for Peace is great shit, but you definitely have to be in a certain mood for it.

And I've been jamming Yankee Hotel Foxtrot endlessly this week.  I've been in Chicago for several days and my hotel is right across the street from the Marina Towers.  If anybody knows any classic Hauppauge, NY albums, send them my way.  I'm gonna need them for awhile.

[chuck]

If anybody knows any classic Hauppauge, NY albums, send them my way.  I'm gonna need them for awhile.

Billy Joel is about as close as you might get but please don't consider that a recommendation. I got called to jury duty once in Hauppauge. Don't consider that a recommendation, either.

I'm having some significant trouble with mbv.

On the other hand I'm liking El Objecto Antes Llamado Disco more and more as I get more used to it.

[Ebby Calvin]

I got called to jury duty once in Hauppauge.

You know, I wrote that with this exact response in mind.

[drew corleone]

Wasn't big on the new Local Natives.

I have enjoyed Phospherescent's new release, and a band I found on Spinner.com named Hey Marseille.

[chuck]

You know, I wrote that with this exact response in mind.

I got out of it somehow. I was later rewarded with a Kings County Grand Jury summons.

[austro]

I got out of it somehow. I was later rewarded with a Kings County Grand Jury summons.

Grand Jury is the worst. Congratulations.

[chuck]

Grand Jury is the worst. Congratulations.

At that time I was insanely busy at work and absolutely could not take the two (or four) weeks to fulfill the obligation. The fellow addressing the group called to the court that day explained that there would be two options, a two week option or a four week option. We would all serve eventually. You could get a pass (maybe two) but if you took the pass you'd eventually have to serve on the four week jury. I just sat there dumbfounded, processing this dismaying information. 'How many of you would prefer to serve on the four week jury now?' the fellow asked. I was stunned when a huge percentage of hands went up. I later decided that these volunteers must be public employees of some sort or another who could treat jury duty as something of a paid holiday.

I got the hell out of there and postponed my service the next time around, too. By the time the final, no excuses you serve four weeks summons came around I'd moved from the county.

I would actually love to serve on a grand jury. I've never served on a jury of any kind and would be most happy to do so. I regret that it was just an impossibility at the time because I imagine serving on a Brooklyn grand jury would be an endless source of stories.

[Ron Brand]

Latest SXSW rumor is Prince and Bruno Mars at La Zona Rosa Saturday. Appears to have many good sources behind it.

John Fogerty will be at the True Believers showcase, which makes it much more difficult for non-badge holders to get in.

[Bench]

Willie Nelson. Tonight at the Arena Theater. SXSWFreeway.

[Ron Brand]

Just confirmed, Prince at LZR Saturday night with a 22-piece band. Tickets probably going to be some kind of lottery system, but no word yet.

[strosrays]

The new Jimi Hendrix disc.

Holy shit. Holy motherfucking shit.

I am always a bit leery about "previously unreleased" Hendrix tracks at this late date. I heard "Hey Gypsy Boy" on the radio on the way to work this morning, and it is basically "Hey Baby" with the gender changed. In a way. But it is really cool, too. Very spare guitar, but still effects here and there. I really liked it. I'm sold, I guess.

This reminds me - was it ever proved that Black Gold actually existed? Or was it just a (probably mostly acid-induced) myth?

[Ebby Calvin]

The AV Club is starting a series called "State Songs" and began with Texas.  They're doing four songs for each state (performed live) and started with Sam Beam (Iron & Wine) performing "Waves of Galveston" at Gruene Hall.

I believe he's what HH calls a "picker."

[Ron Brand]

Just back from an intimate radio showcase of the True Believers, me and maybe 20 others. As one of my friends put it, "It's like you had your own private show." Glorious. It's so rare to have 30 minutes of sublime enjoyment and fun.

[Col. Sphinx Drummond]

Just back from an intimate radio showcase of the True Believers, me and maybe 20 others. As one of my friends put it, "It's like you had your own private show." Glorious. It's so rare to have 30 minutes of sublime enjoyment and fun.

Wow, I bet that was a treat. I'll be there to see 'em at the Four Season on Saturday morning, tired and hung-over with everyone else.

Tonight there's the challenge of seeing as much of as I can of; Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds, Billy Bragg, and Iggy and the Stooges--as their sets overlap.

[Guinness]

Picked up a few new things over the past week or so:

Yo La Tengo Fade -- Very good, recommended.
Dawes -- their first two albums, because I heard their new song "From a Window Seat" on Sirius (28) over the weekend, and it was great, so I pulled the trigger on the others until the new one came out.  Nice stuff, touted as "Laurel Canyon" influenced, and it shows (hears?).  Great great lyrics too.
Nick Cave & the Bad Seeds -- I bought this one on reputation, not extremely familiar with Cave.  Very low key sounding album, but listenable.
Devendra Banhart Mala -- Another impulse buy, also very low key.  Only listened to it once so far, but I didn't have the urge to skip any songs, so that's a good sign.

[NeilT]

This may be the best music magazine article ever:

http://gardenandgun.com/media/nashvilles-new-sound

I haven't heard anything by Jeff the Brotherhood I haven't liked.  And I agree about Yo La Tengo.

[NeilT]

Picked up a few new things over the past week or so:


Nick Cave & the Bad Seeds -- I bought this one on reputation, not extremely familiar with Cave.  Very low key sounding album, but listenable.

Bought this a few weeks ago, and finally started listening to it.  He's the love child of Brian Ferry and Tom Waits.

[Ron Brand]

Wire's new release, Change Becomes Us, is lovely. It's a modern work based on songs they'd written and performed live in 1979-80 and were intended for their fourth album that didn't happen. Give it a listen, those guys are still amazing.

[GreatBagwellsBeard]

And the Worst Song of The Year voting is now officially closed.  Good game, everyone.

[Bench]

And the Worst Song of The Year voting is now officially closed.  Good game, everyone.

What an amazing song.  Truly stunning in so many ways.  

I'm just a white man
(If you don't judge my do-rag)
Comin' to you from the southland
(I won't judge your red flag)
Tryin' to understand what it's like not to be
I'm proud of where I'm from
(If you don't judge my gold chains)
But not everything we've done
(I'll forget the iron chains)
It ain't like you and me can re-write history
(Can't re-write history baby)

LL, you need to take some time and think deeply about what you are doing.

[chuck]

I'm just surprised to learn that there are waiters at Starbucks.

[GreatBagwellsBeard]

I'm just surprised to learn that there are waiters at Starbucks.

Well, at the Whites-Only Starbucks there are.

[Limey]

Well, at the Whites-Only Starbucks there are.

I want to nominate this for POTW honours, but I am wary that this post - out of context on the front page - could be a bad thing for this site...and race relations everywhere.

[chuck]

I want to nominate this for POTW honours, but I am wary that this post - out of context on the front page - could be a bad thing for this site...and race relations everywhere.

I remember back in the AC heyday we were discussing the impending selection of a new manager. As a playful allusion to some commotion HD had stirred up at the time Todd wrote 'I don't care who the new manager is as long as he's white.' I almost fell out of my chair I was laughing so hard.

So there is precedent.

[Ty in Tampa]

And the Worst Song of The Year voting is now officially closed.  Good game, everyone.

That is fucked up.

[Col. Sphinx Drummond]

And the Worst Song of The Year voting is now officially closed.  Good game, everyone.

That was awesome!

[Ebby Calvin]

Current rotation:

Telekinesis - Dormarion
Kurt Vile - Walkin' on a Pretty Daze
Phosphorescent - Muchacho
Low - The Invisible Way

I also heard the new Flaming Lips on NPR's First Listen, but can't find it on Spotify yet.  Pretty good.

[PCOL2000]

Got to see Band of Horses the other night in a really small venue.  Best show I've been to in a long time.

[toddthebod]

I remember back in the AC heyday we were discussing the impending selection of a new manager. As a playful allusion to some commotion HD had stirred up at the time Todd wrote 'I don't care who the new manager is as long as he's white.' I almost fell out of my chair I was laughing so hard.

So there is precedent.

I have no recollection of ever writing that.  But we've been posting here for a very long time. 

[toddthebod]

Dawes -- their first two albums, because I heard their new song "From a Window Seat" on Sirius (28) over the weekend, and it was great, so I pulled the trigger on the others until the new one came out.  Nice stuff, touted as "Laurel Canyon" influenced, and it shows (hears?).  Great great lyrics too.

I love the first two Dawes albums.  "A Little Bit of Everything" is one of the most amazing songs I have heard in a very long time.

Going to get #3 tonight. 

[Ron Brand]

Enough of this crap. Black Sabbath is touring the US. Houston is the first stop, July 25, and Austin is July 27.

[Col. Sphinx Drummond]

Enough of this crap. Black Sabbath is touring the US. Houston is the first stop, July 25, and Austin is July 27.

I hated Black Sabbath in the 70s when they made one of the best rock records ever. I hated them from the moment I heard them over my ex-girlfriend's current boyfriend's car speakers in the school parking lot 1971 or 1972. I thought that Iron Man sounded cool, War Pigs was epic, and Paranoid was a totally awesome song. But on his speakers, they sucked. It wasn't until the mid 80s that I put away my pettiness long enough to form a great appreciation for the band and Tommy Iommi and Gibson SGs.

[strosrays]

Todd Rundgren at Gruene Hall on June 29.

[Ebby Calvin]

Remastered "Blackbird" off of the (also remastered) deluxe reissue Wings Over America, due May 28th.

[Ron Brand]

Some of you sports might know that I am pretty fond of these guys who call themselves the True Believers. I haven't had a week like this in years, but it's a good one coming up - at least it is on this side of it.

The reunion tour begins tonight. I don't have a good excuse for it, but I'm skipping the show in Oklahoma City. Tomorrow I'll be at the Grapevine Main Street Days Festival with them. Wednesday night, it's Paul McCartney in Austin, then back on the road with the Troobs - Thursday in San Antonio at Sam's, Friday in Austin at Antone's, and Saturday in Houston at the Warehouse. Somewhere in the middle of all that I'll have to drag myself to work and find a way to lash together a couple of recaps and a preview. If you go to any of these, I'll be the old fat bald guy shooting video and sometimes stills while geeking out.

There continues to be a fair amount of chatter about more US shows in the fall, as well as Europe and who knows what else. We'll see what happens with everyone's schedules and so forth. Hopefully some of you will get to see the band this time around.

[chuck]

Did they ever play in Europe the first time around?

[Ron Brand]

Did they ever play in Europe the first time around?

I don't know. I thought they did, I'm pretty sure they at least played the UK but I don't know for certain. I know that Jav will be in Spain pretty much all of September, some with the Zeros and some solo.

[Ebby Calvin]

Some of you sports might know that I am pretty fond of these guys who call themselves the True Believers.

True Believers?

[NeilT]

True Believers?

Hooty is amazing, isn't he?  I was thinking of going to see him Saturday night if I can still get a ticket.  I think he's at the Warehouse in Houston.

[chuck]

True Believers?

You will go to your room and not come out until I tell you to.

[GreatBagwellsBeard]

Holy crap, the new Daft Punk is boring.  I get what they were trying to do, but apart from Get Lucky, Doin It Right and Contact, this is the most soul-less soul record I've ever heard.

[Ebby Calvin]

Holy crap, the new Daft Punk is boring.  I get what they were trying to do, but apart from Get Lucky, Doin It Right and Contact, this is the most soul-less soul record I've ever heard.

That's funny, I just clicked on this album 30 minutes ago.  I really liked the first song, but like you, got bored and switched to something else.

Also boring is the new National, but I'm determined to like it so I'll probably listen another couple dozen times or so this week to make myself fall in love with it.

Not boring?  Vampire Weekend's new one.  I hated Contra and thought their self-titled one was a one-shot cutesy album.  This is far, far better than both, and I had zero expectations going in.  It's a bit more, I don't know, out there?  Not as tightly spun?  Either way, it's great shit.  Hannah Hunt and Unbelievers stand out to me.  The rest is great, too.

[GreatBagwellsBeard]

Not boring?  Vampire Weekend's new one.  I hated Contra and thought their self-titled one was a one-shot cutesy album.  This is far, far better than both, and I had zero expectations going in.  It's a bit more, I don't know, out there?  Not as tightly spun?  Either way, it's great shit.  Hannah Hunt and Unbelievers stand out to me.  The rest is great, too.

I'll have to check that out.  I generally don't cross my preppiness with my rock and roll, but so long as they've dialed back the preciousness, I'm all for it.

[Ron Brand]

True Believers?

Blasphemer.

[Ron Brand]

Troobs played the Main Street Days Festival in Grapevine Saturday. Festival crowd, some diehards, but a lot of stragglers resting from walking sat down front when the boys came on.

They'd turned their cabinets around to fire out the back and miked them so as not to overwhelm the PA. Walked on stage, BRRANG BRRANG BRRANG. Thump thump BRRANG BRRANG BRRANG and then they started. Moms and kids moved back 100' or so.

After two songs I noticed someone on stage talking to the stage manager and Jon Dee sorta listening in. After the third song Alejandro says, "I seem to have lost my monitors. The monitors are off."

Monitor mixer guy: "You're too loud. Turn it down."

Al: "Then I can't hear."

Monitor guy: "Turn it down and I'll turn the monitors on."

Al looks around for about a second. "Well, no monitors it is then. We started with no monitors and we can end with no monitors. This is "The Rain Won't Help You When You Have No Monitors." KERRANG!

They shredded it for another 30 minutes or so and finished their set. And got paid. Those people had no idea who they'd booked.

[Guinness]

I don't know if this is hipster or not but the Shouting Matches album borders on tremendous.

ETA that in a totally different vein, so does Locksley.

[Ebby Calvin]

I don't know if this is hipster or not but the Shouting Matches album borders on tremendous.

I'm extremely happy to read this.  I listened to one, maybe two songs a month or so ago and completely forgot all about it.

[NeilT]

I had listened to Vampire Weekend's first album a couple of weeks ago, just to see if I remembered any of it.  I didn't.  Yesterday I was listening to an All Songs Considered podcast about Vampire Weekend's new album.  I was driving along thinking this sounds like Bread and then they do this interview about how they had been inspired by a sample of a Bread song.  Is that supposed to be a good thing?  Being inspired by Bread?

[drew corleone]

That's funny, I just clicked on this album 30 minutes ago.  I really liked the first song, but like you, got bored and switched to something else.

Also boring is the new National, but I'm determined to like it so I'll probably listen another couple dozen times or so this week to make myself fall in love with it.

Not boring?  Vampire Weekend's new one.  I hated Contra and thought their self-titled one was a one-shot cutesy album.  This is far, far better than both, and I had zero expectations going in.  It's a bit more, I don't know, out there?  Not as tightly spun?  Either way, it's great shit.  Hannah Hunt and Unbelievers stand out to me.  The rest is great, too.

Unbelievers and Step form a great 1-2 punch for me. I am really liking this record. It's a nice move forward from their previous stuff (which I did actually like).

Also like Phoenix. It grows on me the more I listen. Still haven't heard The National yet.

[austro]

Is that supposed to be a good thing?  Being inspired by Bread?

Depends on what the inspiration was. People hear the name Bread and immediately think about "If" and "Diary" and schlock like that, but they're probably unaware of songs like "Mother Freedom", "Truckin'", and others that are definitely not in that vein.

Disclaimer: "Manna" was the first album I ever bought (7th grade, probably), so I'm biased.

ETA: Fixed song title that my fading memory botched.

[Col. Sphinx Drummond]

I like that one Bread song, Naked with You.

[NeilT]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dwdTcoUHfkw

[NeilT]

I talked my son into going to see the True Believers tomorrow with me:  hopefully we can get tickets, but with Ron Brand's publicity efforts, it's likely to be sold out.  Anyone else going?

I was in Austin last weekend and went by Waterloo to stock up on Wes Montgomery and Joe Pass.  While I was there I randomly bought the first four things on the Waterloo top-sellers wall.  I can't remember the order, but they were:

Phoenix, Bankruptcy.  This is what happens when you let someone with no real sense of direction fool around too long in the studio.  
She & Him, 3.  I had no idea who the Zooey person was, and when I figured it out I thought I shouldn't like it, but M. Ward I knew, and his guitar work is just so restrained, tasteful and brilliant.  Her voice isn't awful, they do a good cover of Hold Me, Thrill Me, Kiss Me, and her songwriting is ok.  Really though, M. Ward for president.
Nancy Griffith, Intersection.  The guy at the counter told me that it was rumored she was dating Robert Plant, and he's on two tracks.  I have never really liked Nancy Griffith, even in her hayday, but there's nothing wrong with this.
Steve Earle and the Dukes (and Duchesses).  Steve Earle has now released 50,000 albums, and they do kind of run into each other, but he's also written at least two of my favorite songs, Goodbye and Telephone Road.  I liked this a lot, it just seemed so effortless.  And it was effortless and fun to listen to.  

[Ebby Calvin]

Phoenix, Bankruptcy.  This is what happens when you let someone with no real sense of direction fool around too long in the studio. 

I've been trying to put my finger on what, exactly, is my issue with this album and I think you nailed it.  Of course it's well-made, but it seems like they produced the heart and soul right out of their songs.  I still love a few tracks on the album, but I find myself listening to them less and less.  I think they got a little too cute.

[Col. Sphinx Drummond]

Plant is with Patty Griffin.

[Ron Brand]

I talked my son into going to see the True Believers tomorrow with me: hopefully we can get tickets, but with Ron Brand's publicity efforts, it's likely to be sold out.  Anyone else going?

I know they're looking to these two dates, tonight at Antone's and Saturday at the Warehouse, to be very, very important as to the continuation of the band. If you want to see the guys play, this is the time to show up and support them. They need to be shown whether or not they should make a serious commitment.

And yeah, I'll be there. It's been a fantastic couple of weeks, I'm not missing these last two for sure.

[NeilT]

Plant is with Patty Griffin.

you know what?  I bet it was the new Patty Griffin I bought, not the Nanci Griffith.  No wonder I liked it so much more than usual.  Now I'll have to go back and look at it.

Those two even look alike.

[Col. Sphinx Drummond]

you know what?  I bet it was the new Patty Griffin I bought, not the Nanci Griffith.  No wonder I liked it so much more than usual.  Now I'll have to go back and look at it.

Those two even look alike.

Patty has a new album, American Kid, just came out last week and it's real good. Nanci Griffith's most recent release is titled, Intersection.

I don't think they look alike.

[Guinness]

A couple of other things I've picked up recently:

Bear's Den -- Agape EP.  Agape is a great song so I figured I'd get the EP. It's not bad, but the remaining songs all seem to be about a guy's mom going to jail and also about her going to court.  Kind of strange.  Also, I've had it with banjos.

Benjamin Gibbard -- Former Lives (I know, 2012).  Not a huge DCFC fan, but several songs attracted me on the radio.  Nice listen.

Kodaline -- All I Want EP.  Same as Bear's Den, really like All I Want, but alas, they suffer from that Irish curse of trying to be U2.  I wasn't impressed, which is a shame, I really like All I Want.

Locksley -- s/t.  I mentioned above, but thought I'd elaborate.  This is some great, fun pop/rock, power pop, whatever you want to call it.  The remind me of a more melodic version of the band Jet.  Great songwriting on this one, I hope they do well.  They also kind of remind me sound-wise of the Dead Milkmen for some reason.

Phosphorescent -- Muchacho.  Nice, weird stuff here.  Very varied.  Never heard of him (it's a one man band) until I heard Song for Zelda on the radio.  The melodies are a little samey, but it's a very cool wash of sound from beginning to end.

Shouting Matches -- Grownass Man.  Great great record.  Great guitars, well recorded, kind of lo-fi.  I read a review that compared them to the Black Keys, which I can kind of see, but the Matches are far better.  Lots of different sounds and vibes on this one.  Even more classic rock oriented folks would like them.  Actual rock and roll.

[chuck]

I've been trying to put my finger on what, exactly, is my issue with this album and I think you nailed it.  Of course it's well-made, but it seems like they produced the heart and soul right out of their songs.  I still love a few tracks on the album, but I find myself listening to them less and less.  I think they got a little too cute.

I was going to highlight this exact same bit to say that I get this feeling about many, many modern records. I guess now that bands have little incentive to go into an actual studio and suffer the time constraints that booking a finite amount of time results in they are instead free to fuck around at home endlessly. Sometimes endless fucking around yields a Loveless. Most of the time it doesn't.

[NeilT]

Patty has a new album, American Kid, just came out last week and it's real good. Nanci Griffith's most recent release is titled, Intersection.

I don't think they look alike.

Oddly, it will make me feel much better about myself if I got them confused.  The whole time I was buying the thing I was thinking, you know you're always disappointed in Nanci Griffith, just walk away . . . And then I wasn't disappointed.  Now I bet if I go back and listen to it and it says Patty Griffin I'll think it's real good.

[NeilT]

Alright!  I bought my True Believers tickets!  I can't wait to see Hooty!

[Ron Brand]

Alright!  I bought my True Believers tickets!  I can't wait to see Hooty!

[AuntEsther}Don't you blaspheme in here![/AuntEsther]

I know the guys thank you. It'll be a great show.

[Ty in Tampa]

Patty Griffin is in Plant's Band of Joy. Saw them last year and they were great. Buddy Miller is an underrated guitarist.

Sorry Neil...don't mean to pile on but not only does Patty not look like Nanci but their voices are far apart. Griffin can belt 'em out with the best.

[Ebby Calvin]

Phosphorescent -- Muchacho.  Nice, weird stuff here.  Very varied.  Never heard of him (it's a one man band) until I heard Song for Zelda on the radio.  The melodies are a little samey, but it's a very cool wash of sound from beginning to end.

I love "Quotidian Beasts" off that album.  To Willie is a really good album, too - a tribute to Willie Nelson.

[NeilT]

I almost forgot to mention I got a copy of Patty Griffin's American Kid. It's very likable, and she looks nothing like Nancy Griffith.

[NeilT]

I was going to highlight this exact same bit to say that I get this feeling about many, many modern records. I guess now that bands have little incentive to go into an actual studio and suffer the time constraints that booking a finite amount of time results in they are instead free to fuck around at home endlessly. Sometimes endless fucking around yields a Loveless. Most of the time it doesn't.

I think that was one of the things that was so appealing about the first Bon Iver album: it sounded like it was made in a cabin in the woods with a tape deck. Really well made, but homemade.

[Ron Brand]

Live stream of the Oblivians' new disc, 'Desperation.' Greatness.

Call the Police 'cuz we gonna get our drinks on.

[Ron Brand]

Live stream of the Oblivians' new disc, 'Desperation.' Greatness.

Call the Police 'cuz we gonna get our drinks on.

And yeah, that is Mr. Quintron you hear.

[strosrays]

Leon Russell at Gruene Hall on June 28th.

Todd Rundgren at Gruene Hall on June 29th.

Fuck, yes.

Dark Star's Summer of 2013 Rolling Blunder Revue will definitely be rolling through the rolling hills of Gruene/New Braunfels for those two dates, for sure.

[ybbodeus]

Todd Rundgren at Gruene Hall on June 29.

No shit? Thanks.

[GreatBagwellsBeard]

Caught Dawes at an in-store at Cactus today. (Because I'm too old and she's too pregnant for Free Press Summer Fest) The records don't do justice to their musicianship. Absolutely fantastic. If you have a chance to see them live, you won't regret it.

[strosrays]

No shit? Thanks.

Hey, if you are going, let me know. We'll meet up.

I'll be the slightly disheveled-looking drunk guy.

[Ty in Tampa]

Caught Dawes at an in-store at Cactus today. (Because I'm too old and she's too pregnant for Free Press Summer Fest) The records don't do justice to their musicianship. Absolutely fantastic. If you have a chance to see them live, you won't regret it.

Saw them in March and had the same reaction. I would see them again at any chance.

[mrpink]

I'll be the slightly disheveled-looking drunk guy.

I saw Leon Russell at Greune Hall before.  That description won't be much help.

[Ebby Calvin]

Portugal. The Man - Evil Friends

I caught drew corleone listening to this on Spotify (I'm not stalking you, I swear!) and checked it out this afternoon.  Good indie rock n' roll.

[drew corleone]

Ha. Pretty good (I liked their last album a lot).

[hostros7]

Portugal. The Man - Evil Friends

I caught drew corleone listening to this on Spotify (I'm not stalking you, I swear!) and checked it out this afternoon.  Good indie rock n' roll.

Playing in Houston this summer.

[ybbodeus]

Hey, if you are going, let me know. We'll meet up.

I'll be the slightly disheveled-looking drunk guy.

Forgive me, but I've opted for his House of Blues show on the 28th. Conformist, I know.

What's this Bonnaroo thing I'm going to, anyway? (Buried the lead)

[strosrays]

Forgive me, but I've opted for his House of Blues show on the 28th. Conformist, I know.

It's cool.

I'll be in Gruene for Rundgren, but I'll probably be nine kinds of stoned for the show, and backstage anyway. And not much worth talking to, at all.

Next time, then.

[Ebby Calvin]

NPR is streaming Anna Von Hausswolff's album Ceremony on their First Listen page.

I've never heard of her, but if you want something to read, paint or zone out to, this is it.  It's gorgeous.

[Ebby Calvin]

Clip from the Big Star documentary.

[Ebby Calvin]

Also boring is the new National, but I'm determined to like it so I'll probably listen another couple dozen times or so this week to make myself fall in love with it.

It took longer than I expected, but my hard work paid off.  Finally got to the point where I can't stop listening to this.  If you like the National, this one is worth it.  The songs I originally tabbed as filler have become my favorites - "Heavenfaced", "This is the Last Time" and "Slipped."

I also can't stop listening to CHVRCHES - "Recover."  I guess I just love my Scots.

And Foxygen - "On Blue Mountain" is another great track, with a nice "Suspicious Minds" reset in the middle.

[HudsonHawk]

Not 2013 music, but about music in 2013...

I was taking my dog to the vet this morning...I'm flipping around XM, he doesn't really care for anything...until I get to 70's on 7.  On came Sly and Family Stone, and the dog started groovin', follwed by James Brown's "Sex Machine".  Who knew he was a 70's soul dog. 

[hostros7]

Chromatics and Dawes have both recently announced Houston shows.  If you have the means, I highly recommend you picking some tickets up.

[subnuclear]

This summer I've been listening to The Bird and the Bee's  tribute to Hall & Oates. I like the keyboard backing and she has a great voice and all the songs are the best Hall & Oates songs. I guess its not very new or radical, but I've listened to it a 100 times and still like it, so I'd thought I share.

[GreatBagwellsBeard]

Chromatics and Dawes have both recently announced Houston shows.  If you have the means, I highly recommend you picking some tickets up.

Where are you seeing that Dawes date?  I see them in Austin for ACL, but not Houston.

[hostros7]

Where are you seeing that Dawes date?  I see them in Austin for ACL, but not Houston.

Song kick shot me an email. Dawes is oct 12 in the ballroom at warehouse live. 

[Ebby Calvin]

Great article on the new Civil Wars album, out Aug 6.  Looks like they're still on hiatus, and the album was created while everything was falling apart.  Great song featured in the article, too.

[roadrunner]

It took longer than I expected, but my hard work paid off.  Finally got to the point where I can't stop listening to this.  If you like the National, this one is worth it.  The songs I originally tabbed as filler have become my favorites - "Heavenfaced", "This is the Last Time" and "Slipped."

I also can't stop listening to CHVRCHES - "Recover."  I guess I just love my Scots.

And Foxygen - "On Blue Mountain" is another great track, with a nice "Suspicious Minds" reset in the middle.

The National album does take a few listens, but it is fantastic.  My favorite song on it changes weekly.  Check out the NPR Tiny Desk Concert performance for some really great stripped down performances of Sea of Love and This Is the Last Time.

[Col. Sphinx Drummond]

I highly recommend the new Mavis Staples, "One True Vine." It is produced by Jeff Tweedy who provides all the instrumentation other than drums (son Spencer has those covered). He also contributes on song writing as does, among others, George Clinton and Nick Lowe. The Nick Lowe song, "Far Celestial Shore" is just beautiful.

[NeilT]

this is probably technically 2012, because I think I heard last year a review of the album on All Songs Considered.  I remember it because they were excited and I didn't like it at the time.  Anyway, my son gave me the Head and the Heart CD for fathers day, and every time I listen to it I like it more.  They're in Houston in November.

[Taras Bulba]

I saw Calexico at Bonnaroo and liked them.

McCartney was good but better the night before when he was doing his soundcheck--did a bunch of stuff he didn't do the next night.

Dwight Yoakum was great.  His band is very tight.

Without question, the best act I saw was ZZ Top.  Walked on stage and just owned it for the next seventy minutes.

Lots of other alt acts that gazed at their navels and warbled. 

[JimR]

I saw Calexico at Bonnaroo and liked them.

McCartney was good but better the night before when he was doing his soundcheck--did a bunch of stuff he didn't do the next night.

Dwight Yoakum was great.  His band is very tight.

Without question, the best act I saw was ZZ Top.  Walked on stage and just owned it for the next seventy minutes.

Lots of other alt acts that gazed at their navels and warbled. 

hey, we miss you around here.

[Taras Bulba]

hey, we miss you around here.

Not sure the plural fits, but thanks and I miss you, too.  No, not in that way (NTTAWWT) but  missing having you ask me what pitch to call in a given situation while watching a game and you then informing me how really fucked up in the head I am.  Question: since you moved to the trendy east side, are you now wearing skinny pants and one of those little fedora hat things?  Also, I hear that you've come out of the closet as a Cubs fan.

[JimR]

Not sure the plural fits, but thanks and I miss you, too.  No, not in that way (NTTAWWT) but  missing having you ask me what pitch to call in a given situation while watching a game and you then informing me how really fucked up in the head I am.  Question: since you moved to the trendy east side, are you now wearing skinny pants and one of those little fedora hat things?  Also, I hear that you've come out of the closet as a Cubs fan.

bad info all around, and I don't remember saying any of those things. you MFers kicked me out of NW Hills.

[austro]

bad info all around, and I don't remember saying any of those things. you MFers kicked me out of NW Hills.

Taras was behind it all. He wanted that Indian sweat lodge from your back yard.

[JimR]

Taras was behind it all. He wanted that Indian sweat lodge from your back yard.

dammit! I should have seen that coming!

[Ebby Calvin]

This came out last year, but Lord Huron - Lonesome Dreams is a fantastic album.  Worth a listen.

[Ty in Tampa]

Great article on the new Civil Wars album, out Aug 6.  Looks like they're still on hiatus, and the album was created while everything was falling apart.  Great song featured in the article, too.

More info from Joy Williams on the hiatus and efforts to end it.

[GreatBagwellsBeard]

More info from Joy Williams on the hiatus and efforts to end it.

I think the fact that Williams is the only one talking to the press about the whole fiasco says...something.

Also, for anyone else who listens to hip hop, Run The Jewels, the collaboration between El-P and Killer Mike is just fantastic. 

[Ebby Calvin]

Also, for anyone else who listens to hip hop, Run The Jewels, the collaboration between El-P and Killer Mike is just fantastic. 

I saw a good review of that somewhere but haven't checked it out.  Thanks.

[Ty in Tampa]

I think the fact that Williams is the only one talking to the press about the whole fiasco says...something.

Indeed. She's supposed to be on today on Q with Jian Ghomeshi, Billy Bob Thornton's favorite interviewer.

[Ebby Calvin]

Indeed. She's supposed to be on today on Q with Jian Ghomeshi, Billy Bob Thornton's favorite interviewer.

It can't help that her husband is the band's manager.

ETA: Also, the album is out today and up on Spotify.

[NeilT]

Hey!  This is just like John & Paul, with her husband as Yoko!  I wonder if he vocalizes on her new record.

[T. J.]

New Willie and Mavis Staples song streaming here.

[strosrays]

This doesn't have anything in particular to do with 2013, as far as I know; but thanks to a recent night of partying with an old friend of mine, I have been reminded of this gorgeous acoustic rendition of an all-time favorite.

Thank God for the Allman Brothers, for one thing. Whether it be 1971, or 1993, or 2013, it doesn't really matter. Some music is timeless.

[Ty in Tampa]

Check out the new Neko Case streaming on NPR.

[hostros7]

Okkervil's newest offering streaming on NPR.  I dig it, but I'm a strong proponent of Will Sheff's work.  http://www.npr.org/2013/08/25/214471289/first-listen-okkervil-river-the-silver-gymnasium

[Ebby Calvin]

The Greyboy Allstars - Inland Emperor came out earlier this year and it's fantastic as expected.  Features Karl Denson on horns and Robert Walter on keys.  Great jazz-funk stuff.  All of their albums are worth a listen.

Ola Podrida - Ghosts Go Blind is another one I've been listening to a lot lately.  The band is fronted by a guy named David Wingo, who just collaborated with Explosions in the Sky for a film score.  Ghosts Go Blind is good-to-great rock.

And for all of those Bon Iver lovers out there, Volcano Choir released its second LP, Repave, with Justin Vernon at the helm.  Good stuff.

[Ebby Calvin]

Interactive video for Arcade Fire's new single.

[NeilT]

Interactive video for Arcade Fire's new single.

All I got was a box and a circle.  Damned Canadian plot.

[NeilT]

I finally saw it here:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7E0fVfectDo

I'm pretty sure it's a song about the dangers of unupervised mascara use.

[Ebby Calvin]

I finally saw it here:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7E0fVfectDo

I'm pretty sure it's a song about the dangers of unupervised mascara use.

That's really weird, because it is so completely different from the interactive link I sent you.  You're supposed to stare at that circle and square for 30 minutes.

ETA: For some reason they released two videos of the same song within hours of each other.

[NeilT]

That's really weird, because it is so completely different from the interactive link I sent you.  You're supposed to stare at that circle and square for 30 minutes.

ETA: For some reason they released two videos of the same song within hours of each other.

Really?  I must have overdosed then, because I stared at it for an hour.  I didn't get any sound though.  I'll try it for another hour when I get home.

[Limey]

Today, at a company-wide meeting, the host opened with this.

#cannotunsee

[subnuclear]

Today, at a company-wide meeting, the host opened with this.

#cannotunsee

What possible reason could there be to show that at a company wide meeting?

[NeilT]

Another recent video release:

http://jalopnik.com/macklemore-explains-everything-good-about-cadillac-in-1279778518?utm_campaign=socialflow_jalopnik_facebook&utm_source=jalopnik_facebook&utm_medium=socialflow

[NeilT]

Today, at a company-wide meeting, the host opened with this.

#cannotunsee

Now I'm having to work through Ylvis's entire canon.  Cannon? 

http://www.slate.com/blogs/browbeat/2013/09/09/ylvis_best_music_videos_in_english_stonehenge_work_it_pressure_jan_egeland.html

[NeilT]

What possible reason could there be to show that at a company wide meeting?

That should be obvious.  "Work It" would have been completely inappropriate.

[Aussie Astro]

Today, at a company-wide meeting, the host opened with this.

#cannotunsee

In the language of my children...   KMN.

[Astros Fan in Big D]

Arctic Monkeys- AM is pretty good.

[NeilT]

Not 2013 music, but a tremendous 2013 music documentary:

http://www.magpictures.com/muscleshoals/

[austro]

Not 2013 music, but a tremendous 2013 music documentary:

http://www.magpictures.com/muscleshoals/

Thanks for the heads up. That looks great.

[Col. Sphinx Drummond]

I got to see The Swampers last year at SXSW. They were better than I expected and my expectations were high. Spooner Oldham has always been one of my favorite organists. I guess it adds necessary current star power to the documentary having Bono and Alicia Keys commenting about the influence the Muscle Shoals Sound has had on rock, soul, and R&B.

[NeilT]

I got to see The Swampers last year at SXSW. They were better than I expected and my expectations were high. Spooner Oldham has always been one of my favorite organists. I guess it adds necessary current star power to the documentary having Bono and Alicia Keys commenting about the influence the Muscle Shoals Sound has had on rock, soul, and R&B.

I'm embarrassed, but I never knew they were white.

[GreatBagwellsBeard]

I got to see The Swampers last year at SXSW. They were better than I expected and my expectations were high. Spooner Oldham has always been one of my favorite organists. I guess it adds necessary current star power to the documentary having Bono and Alicia Keys commenting about the influence the Muscle Shoals Sound has had on rock, soul, and R&B.

At least they got people who actually recorded with them, not just big names for the sake of names.

[HudsonHawk]

I got to see The Swampers last year at SXSW. They were better than I expected and my expectations were high. Spooner Oldham has always been one of my favorite organists. I guess it adds necessary current star power to the documentary having Bono and Alicia Keys commenting about the influence the Muscle Shoals Sound has had on rock, soul, and R&B.

They been known to pick a song or two.

[GreatBagwellsBeard]

Arcade Fire has discovered cocaine, apparently.  I like the songs, but hoo boy.

[Ron Brand]

They been known to pick a song or two.

Lord they get me off so much.

[NeilT]

Lord they get me off so much.

They always pick me up when I'm feeling blue.

[Ebby Calvin]

Arcade Fire has discovered cocaine, apparently.  I like the songs, but hoo boy.

You know, I thought James Murphy would be the most noticable factor in what's being perceived as a big step forward for them (I've only heard singles), but you may be onto something there.

[Ron Brand]

I've got a nice little run shaping up over the next ten days or so. Tonight it's Jon Dee Graham at the Continental. Tomorrow it's rehearsals with the True Believers and at night Javier Escovedo plays at Club DeVille. Friday it's more rehearsals, then Saturday the True Believers at ACL. Tuesday is Alejandro Escovedo at the Continental, then Wednesday it's Jon Dee and Javier at the Continental. Thursday is Javier at the Parish Underground. Friday is the Troobs at the Kessler in Dallas, then Saturday they play ACL for their last show together.

I win. Even if I die trying, I win.

[Duke]

I wish I could go see Shovels and Rope tomorow.  Damn, if I just hadn't gotten acustomed to shelter and food.

[JimR]

I wish I could go see Shovels and Rope tomorow.  Damn, if I just hadn't gotten acustomed to shelter and food.

s and f is the band you prefer to S and R?

[Ron Brand]

Louder. Than. God.

[strosrays]

s and f is the band you prefer to S and R?

Better than s and s, even.

[Col. Sphinx Drummond]

Better than s and s, even.

That's a good band.

[Ebby Calvin]

Not a huge hip hop fan, but Deltron 3030 finally released their second album (after 13 years), entitled Event 2.
Every bit as good as their first one.  Love it.

[NeilT]

Not a huge hip hop fan, but Deltron 3030 finally released their second album (after 13 years), entitled Event 2.
Every bit as good as their first one.  Love it.

Man, I love hip-hop.  I am a hip-hop kind of guy.

[Ty in Tampa]

Man, I love hip-hop.  I am a hip-hop kind of guy.

it's easy to judge by what appears to the eye but just because i'm rockin' this paisley bow tie...sho don't mean i ain't a hip-hop kind a guy, yo...

[NeilT]

it's easy to judge by what appears to the eye but just because i'm rockin' this paisley bow tie...sho don't mean i ain't a hip-hop kind a guy, yo...

Yo.

[Aussie Astro]

New Fratellis album released today, their third.  Not as good as their first but not bad.

[Ebby Calvin]

Typhoon - White Lighter is crazy good on first listen.  I guess it's kind of orchestrated rock, but leaning more to the Beirut/Sufjan Stevens mold than the current Lumineers/Mumfords trend.  Really great songs throughout.  Apparently they travel with 12+ musicians.

Jason Isbell - Southeastern is another great one.  Ex-DBT member working mostly in the folk/rock ranges.  Think Ryan Adams but (assuming here) not a total douchebag.

[Col. Sphinx Drummond]

I have heard that Jason Isbell a "real nice guy."

[Col. Sphinx Drummond]

If anyone is curious as to who appeared at this years Hardly Strict Bluegrass Festival last weekend in San Francisco's beautiful Golden Gate Park, here's a link to their line up/schedule. It continues to be the best FREE outdoor festival in the world.

I didn't make it there this year. Looking forward to the ACL Fest this weekend, though.

[austro]

I didn't make it there this year. Looking forward to the ACL Fest this weekend, though.

Bring your umbrella.

[Ebby Calvin]

Looking forward to the ACL Fest this weekend, though.

If you get a chance (and there's no competing bands you'd rather see), I'd be really interested in how Foxygen plays live.  I imagine it'd be a great set.

[Col. Sphinx Drummond]

Bring your umbrella.

Ay yi yi! I just looked at the forecast. They probably don't allow umbrellas but I've got a real cool poncho that functions sort of like a small tent with a head-hole.

[Col. Sphinx Drummond]

If you get a chance (and there's no competing bands you'd rather see), I'd be really interested in how Foxygen plays live.  I imagine it'd be a great set.

Noon on Sunday. If I'm there by then, I'm there. If it's raining much, since my pass is a complimentary one, I might have a hard time motivating myself to get out that early on the third day.

[hostros7]

Noon on Sunday. If I'm there by then, I'm there. If it's raining much, since my pass is a complimentary one, I might have a hard time motivating myself to get out that early on the third day.

Sometimes I doubt your commitment to Sparkle Motion

[Ebby Calvin]

here's a link to their line up/schedule.

That's a killer lineup.

[Ty in Tampa]

That's a killer lineup.

And all free. I have to do that one once before I'm gone.

[drew corleone]

If you get a chance (and there's no competing bands you'd rather see), I'd be really interested in how Foxygen plays live.  I imagine it'd be a great set.

I thought it was noisy and chaotic when I saw them at SXSW, but not the best venue for judging.

Love Isbell... seen him a few times now, included an almost empty bar in Denton three years ago. He's recently gone sober and it didn't really affect his songwriting, IMO.

I'm liking the new Dr Dog.

[Ebby Calvin]

Paul McCartney - NEW is actually pretty darn good.  Best thing he's done in years (decades?).

Also, I finally saw The National in concert last Saturday night and it was fantastic.  Terrible venue, but who cares.

[strosrays]

Johnny Winter and James Cotton this weekend.

Not trendy, or even 2013; but I'm looking forward to it.

[austro]

Johnny Winter and James Cotton this weekend.

Not trendy, or even 2013; but I'm looking forward to it.

I'll be curious to hear your report on Johnny Winter. I went to see him 4 or 5 years ago because I figured there weren't going to be many more chances. He looked very frail, actually shuffling onto the stage with somebody at his elbow, and played from a chair the entire time. But, boy, he could still play.

[Col. Sphinx Drummond]

Saw John Fogerty last night. Great show, played all the old CCR hits including the entire Cosmos Factory album and dozen or so songs from his solo stuff. Such a unique singer, great songwriter and guitarist. He maybe an asshole, or not, I don't know but I've heard things, regardless, a hell of a show that showcased a hell of a career.

[strosrays]

I'll be curious to hear your report on Johnny Winter. I went to see him 4 or 5 years ago because I figured there weren't going to be many more chances. He looked very frail, actually shuffling onto the stage with somebody at his elbow, and played from a chair the entire time. But, boy, he could still play.

I could lift your review from five years ago, pretty much word-for-word. JW looked feeble walking out onstage, and he did sit for most of the show.

But once he got situated, and had the guitar strapped on him, the transformation was startling. He was smiling and talkative, was in excellent voice, and he played the fuck out of his Lazer guitar, I believe it is, from start to finish. Also delved heavily into the Stones songbook along the way, so I was pretty happy with it; as were my sons and wife, who were along for the ride.

For an encore, he came back out with the Gibson Firebird and his metal slide, and tore that up on some Elmore James tunes, for another twenty minutes or so. Great show.

[NeilT]

I stayed up late to watch the lumineers and Shovels and Rope last night on Austin City Limits. Not normally something I'd mention, but that may be the best ACL ever.

[Ebby Calvin]

Robin Pecknold (Fleet Foxes) and Daniel Rossen (Grizzly Bear) covered Pearl Jam's "Corduroy" on Fallon last night.
Link

Also, from Monday, Chris Cornell and the Avett Bros covered "Footsteps," which is interesting because Cornell originally recorded the same song as "Times of Trouble" for Temple of the Dog.
Link

[Bench]

I stayed up late to watch the lumineers and Shovels and Rope last night on Austin City Limits. Not normally something I'd mention, but that may be the best ACL ever.

Shovels and Rope was my brother's favorite discovery (for him) at ACL this year.

The lumineers always make me think they came right out of Williamsburg Central Casting. 

[NeilT]

The lumineers always make me think they came right out of Williamsburg Central Casting. 

I'm a sucker for a pretty woman playing the cello.

[hostros7]

I'm a sucker for a pretty woman playing the cello.

Which is why I haven't paid attention to ra ra riot in years.

[hostros7]

Robin Pecknold (Fleet Foxes) and Daniel Rossen (Grizzly Bear) covered Pearl Jam's "Corduroy" on Fallon last night.
Link

Also, from Monday, Chris Cornell and the Avett Bros covered "Footsteps," which is interesting because Cornell originally recorded the same song as "Times of Trouble" for Temple of the Dog.
Link

Moonface

http://pitchfork.com/advance/274-julia-with-blue-jeans-on/

[Ebby Calvin]

Moonface

http://pitchfork.com/advance/274-julia-with-blue-jeans-on/

Praise you.

[HudsonHawk]

I'll be curious to hear your report on Johnny Winter. I went to see him 4 or 5 years ago because I figured there weren't going to be many more chances. He looked very frail, actually shuffling onto the stage with somebody at his elbow, and played from a chair the entire time. But, boy, he could still play.

I assume the sitting is mainly because a) he can't walk after his hip problems and b) he's pretty much blind now.  The years of heroin and methadone addiction probably haven't helped him either. 

[strosrays]

I assume the sitting is mainly because a) he can't walk after his hip problems and b) he's pretty much blind now.  The years of heroin and methadone addiction probably haven't helped him either. 

Still, a dynamic performer. He has mellowed some, but not too much. He let Cotton play one song with him, then he went screaming off into his own thing. Ambulatorily(sp) challenged, though, for the reasons you say.

[NeilT]

This is outstanding:

http://www.npr.org/blogs/thetwo-way/2013/10/23/240250027/video-world-series-smackdown-symphony-style?utm_content=socialflow&utm_campaign=nprfacebook&utm_source=npr&utm_medium=facebook

[GreatBagwellsBeard]

Finally getting around to Reflektor.  Holy shit, this is boring.

[Ebby Calvin]

Finally getting around to Reflektor.  Holy shit, this is boring.

I've given it two or three listens, and I honestly can't remember any of it.  It all seems a bit...arrogant?  Is that a way to describe music?
I'm currently obsessing over the new Moonface, though, so I may be distracted/not in the mood.

[GreatBagwellsBeard]

I've given it two or three listens, and I honestly can't remember any of it.  It all seems a bit...arrogant?  Is that a way to describe music?
I'm currently obsessing over the new Moonface, though, so I may be distracted/not in the mood.

It certainly feels like they're asserting their superiority to their audience.

[Col. Sphinx Drummond]

The Devil Makes Three's new album, I'm a Stranger Here, is very very good.

[Col. Sphinx Drummond]

Elephants Gerald's new album "Kris Kissed Off Her Son" is amazing. The perfect follow up to their debut album, "Yo On Some Bastard Bock ... Beer."


Edited: Never mind, I just googled the name and there really is a band named Elephants Gerald. It's hard to be a hoaxer in the info age.

[NeilT]

I think the drummer from Elephants Gerald is from Dallas.

[Ron Brand]

Elephants Gerald's new album "Kris Kissed Off Her Son" is amazing. The perfect follow up to their debut album, "Yo On Some Bastard Bock ... Beer."


Edited: Never mind, I just googled the name and there really is a band named Elephants Gerald. It's hard to be a hoaxer in the info age.

I was going to congratulate you and I Googled them too. Dammit. Excellent try though.

[NeilT]

I remember this being discussed in some thread, but I don't remember where and here seems as good as anyplace.  I think it includes both music about Houston, and music from Houstonians.  I like Telephone Road at number 3. 

http://365thingsinhouston.com/2013/12/07/list-houston-songs-about-houston/

[Duman]

The Lone Bellow is the only new album I have heard yet this year and I agree with you. I listened to it about three times through a few weeks ago when it debuted on NPR's First Listen. And thanks for the reminder on the Joy Formidable.. I have liked their stuff in the past.

Late to the game but I have really enjoyed their stuff.  Really like their live videos better than the album cuts.  Much more of an edge to them. 

[Ebby Calvin]

Might as well post my list again.

Favorite 2013 Albums (favorite songs in parenthesis)

1.  Moonface - Julia With Blue Jeans On (November 2011, Barbarian, Love the House You're In)
2.  The National - Trouble Will Find Me (This is the Last Time, Slipped, Pink Rabbits, Humiliation)
3.  Vampire Weekend - Modern Vampires of the City (Hannah Hunt, Step, Unbelievers)
4.  Local Natives - Hummingbird (Three Months, Breakers, Black Balloons)
5.  Volcano Choir - Repave (Byegone, Tiderays)
6.  CHVRCHES - The Bones of What You Believe (Recover, The Mother We Share, Gun, Night Sky)
7.  Portugal, The Man - Evil Friends (Atomic Man, Sea of Air, Hip Hop Kids)
8.  Atoms for Peace - Amok (Default, Dropped, Ingenue)
9.  Jon Hopkins - Immunity
10.  Laura Marling - Once I Was an Eagle (Master Hunter, I Was an Eagle, Take the Night Off)
11.  The Civil Wars - s/t (Oh Henry, From This Valley, Tell Mama)
12.  Phosphorescent - Muchacho (Quotidian Beasts, Song for Zula)
13.  Jason Isbell - Southeastern (Elephant, Flying Over Water, Cover Me Up)
14.  Anna Von Hausswolff - Ceremony
15.  Frightened Rabbit - Pedestrian Verse (The Woodpile, Dead Now, Nitrous Gas)
16.  Justin Timberlake - The 20/20 Experience Vol 2 (Drink You Away, Only When I Walk Away)
17.  Telekinesis - Dormarion (Power Lines, Empathetic People)
18.  Junip - s/t (Your Life Your Call, Line of Fire)
19.  Laura Stevenson - Wheel (Renee, Telluride)
20.  Julianna Barwick - Nepenthe
21.  Typhoon - White Lighter (Young Fathers, Dreams of Cannibalism, Hunger and Thirst)
22.  Paul McCartney - NEW (On My Way to Work, Alligator, Queenie Eye)
23.  Mogwai - Les Revenants

Runners-Up

Fuck Buttons - Slow Focus
Dawes - Stories Don't End
Flaming Lips - The Terror
San Fermin - s/t
William Tyler - Impossible Truth
Gregory Alan Isakov - The Weatherman
Majical Cloudz - Impersonator
James Blake - Overgrown
Rhye - Woman
The Greyboy Allstars - Inland Emperor
Ola Podrida - Ghosts Go Blind
Parquet Courts - Light Up Gold
Waxahatchee - Cerulean Salt
Foxygen - We Are The 21st Century Ambassadors of Peace & Magic
Sigur Ros - Kveikur
Kurt Vile - Walkin on a Pretty Daze
Low - The Invisible Way
Foals - Holy Fire
The Lone Bellow - s/t
Yo La Tengo - Fade
The Joy Formidable - Wolf's Law

Favorite New Album Not Released This Year

Lord Huron - Lonesome Dreams (2012 - would've be my #1 of this year)

Notable Albums I Didn't Like

Arcade Fire
Yeah Yeah Yeahs
Iron & Wine
Phoenix
The Knife
Daft Punk

Favorite Songs of 2013 (limit one per artist)

1.  Dawes - From a Window Seat
2.  The National - Slipped
3.  Local Natives - Three Months
4.  Phosphorescent - Song for Zula
5.  Telekinesis - Power Lines
6.  Grizzly Bear - Will Calls (Marfa Demo)
7.  Portigal, The Man - Atomic Man
8.  Ola Podrida - Notes Remain
9.  Best Coast - I Don't Know How
10.  Jason Isbell - Elephant
11.  Laura Marling - Master Hunter
12.  San Fermin - Sonsick
13.  Rhye - Open
14.  Atoms for Peace - Default
15.  Foxygen - On Blue Mountain

Favorite EPs of 2013

Grizzly Bear
Andrew Bird

[GreatBagwellsBeard]

With no particular plan in mind, my favorites of 2013.

Albums:

1. Pusha T - My Name Is My Name
2. Dawes - Stories Don't End
3. Run The Jewels - s/t
4. The World Is A Beautiful Place And I Am No Longer Afraid To Die - Whenever, If Ever
5. Vampire Weekend - Modern Vampires of The City
6. Action Bronson - Blue Chips 2
7. Chance The Rapper - Acid Rap
8. The National - Trouble Will Find Me
9. Ghostface Killah - Twelve Reasons To Die
10. The Civil Wars - s/t
11. Jason Isbell - Southeastern
12. The Shouting Matches - Grownass Man
13. Deafheaven - Sunbather

Songs

Danny Brown - Grown Up
Ace Hood - Bugatti
Pusha T - Numbers On The Boards
Daft Punk feat. Panda Bear - Doin' It Right
The National - I Need My Girl
Phosphorescent - Song for Zula
The World Is... - Ultimate Steve
Kanye West - Black Skinhead
Drake - Started From The Bottom

2012 Why Did I Miss This?
The Oh Hello's - Through The Deep Dark Valley

Favorite Rap Simile Of The Year
"I move with a team of ho's like Pat Summitt" - Action Bronson

[NeilT]

The Niko Case isn't on anyone's list so far.  I liked it.

I bought one of the worst CDs ever this year.  I'd been thinking a lot about Tapestry by Carol King, which came out when I was in high school, and I was at Cactus and came across a compilation album of Tapestry which I thought was a great Idea.  There was no information on the outside, just a nice cover.  Since I bought it I found out it was recorded in 1995, which is no excuse.  Here's the playlist:

1."I Feel the Earth Move" – 4:59 (performed by Eternal)
 2."So Far Away" – 4:25 (performed by Rod Stewart)
 3."It's Too Late" – 3:59 (performed by Amy Grant)
 4."Home Again" – 3:41 (performed by Curtis Stigers)
 5."Beautiful" – 3:46 (performed by Richard Marx)
 6."Way Over Yonder" – 3:54 (performed by Blessid Union of Souls)
 7."You've Got a Friend" – 6:03 (performed by BeBe & CeCe Winans featuring Aretha Franklin)
 8."Where You Lead" – 3:32 (performed by Faith Hill)
 9."Will You Love Me Tomorrow" – 5:02 (performed by Bee Gees)
 10."Smackwater Jack" – 4:37 (performed by The Manhattan Transfer)
 11."Tapestry" – 3:12 (performed by All-4-One)
 12."(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman" – 3:43 (performed by Celine Dion)

I don't know who some of these people are, but it really is outstandingly smarmy.  I do like Manhatten Transfer, because, well, they were always meant to be smarmy in the best way.  Otherwise it was just amazingly bad.  I think whoever wins the Astros losses pick this year gets it as part of their losings.

In addition to that bad CD, I also bought a John Denver compilation at Waterloo because, well, I hate to admit it, but in high school I liked John Denver, and there are at least two songs, Country Roads and Leaving on a Jet Plane, that are great songs.  Here's the playlist:

1. Leaving on a Jet Plane by My Morning Jacket
 2. Take Me To Tomorrow by Dave Matthews
 3. All Of My Memories by Kathleen Edwards
 4. Prisoners by J Mascis and Sharon Van Etten
 5. Sunshine on My Shoulders by Train
 6. Back Home Again by Old Crow Medicine Show
 7. This Old Guitar by Lucinda Williams
 8. Some Days Are Diamonds by Amos Lee
 9. Rocky Mountain High by Allen Stone
 10. Annie’s Song by Brett Dennen and Milow
 11. Looking For Space by Evan Dando
 12. Take Me Home, Country Roads by Brandi Carlile and Emmylou Harris
 13. The Eagle and The Hawk by Blind Pilot
 14. I Guess He’d Rather Be In Colorado by Mary Chapin Carpenter
 15. Darcy Farrow by Josh Ritter and Barnstar!
 16. Wooden Indian by Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros

Now there are some people there who I really like, Josh Ritter, Emmylou Harris, Lucinda Williams, Sharon Van Etten, Kathleen Edwards and My Morning Jacket.  You know what this compilation proves?  John Denver's songs mostly really sucked, and most of them even with the best intentions can't be redeemed.  I still like Rocky Mountain High though, and I still know better. 

[Ron Brand]

As to John Denver, I can attest that this song was purty gotdam fahn live.

[austro]

As to John Denver, I can attest that this song was purty gotdam fahn live.

I'm glad I clicked on that.

[NeilT]

I'm glad I clicked on that.

That's what covers should all be like.

[Ron Brand]

I'm glad y'all liked that one.

[austro]

I'm glad y'all liked that one.

It's pretty hard to go wrong with Jason and the Scorchers.

[Ron Brand]

It's pretty hard to go wrong with Jason and the Scorchers.

Yessir.

[Aussie Astro]

That's what covers should all be like.

Have you heard of Me First and the Gimme Gimmes?

[Ebby Calvin]

With no particular plan in mind, my favorites of 2013.

Albums:

1. Pusha T - My Name Is My Name
2. Dawes - Stories Don't End
3. Run The Jewels - s/t
4. The World Is A Beautiful Place And I Am No Longer Afraid To Die - Whenever, If Ever
5. Vampire Weekend - Modern Vampires of The City
6. Action Bronson - Blue Chips 2
7. Chance The Rapper - Acid Rap
8. The National - Trouble Will Find Me
9. Ghostface Killah - Twelve Reasons To Die
10. The Civil Wars - s/t
11. Jason Isbell - Southeastern
12. The Shouting Matches - Grownass Man
13. Deafheaven - Sunbather

Songs

Danny Brown - Grown Up
Ace Hood - Bugatti
Pusha T - Numbers On The Boards
Daft Punk feat. Panda Bear - Doin' It Right
The National - I Need My Girl
Phosphorescent - Song for Zula
The World Is... - Ultimate Steve
Kanye West - Black Skinhead
Drake - Started From The Bottom

2012 Why Did I Miss This?
The Oh Hello's - Through The Deep Dark Valley

Favorite Rap Simile Of The Year
"I move with a team of ho's like Pat Summitt" - Action Bronson

Thanks for this. Listening to the Oh Hello's right now and I plan to check out the hip hop recs next. I've read great things about Chance the Rapper.

[Col. Sphinx Drummond]

Thanks EC and GBB, now I have a lot of music to check out.

Here are a few no one mentioned that I like:

Mudhoney - Vanishing Point
Queens of the Stoneage - Like Clockwork
The Mavericks - In Time
The Melvins - Tres Cabrones
The Devil Makes Three - I'm a Stranger Here
Wire - Change Becomes Us
The Black Lillies - Runaway Freeway Blues

[NeilT]

Have you heard of Me First and the Gimme Gimmes?

Nope.  Are they New Zealand bands?

[drew corleone]

Nope.  Are they New Zealand bands?

No, punk rock band that covers other songs. Pretty entertaining.

[GreatBagwellsBeard]

Totally forgot the QOTSA release. Absolutely fantastic top to bottom.

[Aussie Astro]

Nope.  Are they New Zealand bands?

One band - they are pretty strange but I don't think they fuck sheep...  The Gimmes are pretty much a love or hate band, they say their mission is to take crappy songs and make them great and I think they do most of the time.

[NeilT]

One band - they are pretty strange but I don't think they fuck sheep...  The Gimmes are pretty much a love or hate band, they say their mission is to take crappy songs and make them great and I think they do most of the time.

I'll look for them.

[drew corleone]

My 2013 list... for what it's worth, I was bad about getting into full albums, and most of them didn't get more than a few listens. I have some songs that I tagged in Spotify as "best of" early in the year that I cannot remember at all now.

1. Fitz and the Tantrums; More than Just a Dream
2. Jason Isbell; Southeastern
3. The Head and the Heart; Let's Be Still
4. Vampire Weekend; Modern vampires of the City
5. Local Natives; Hummingbird
6. Foxygen; We are the Creators of Long-Ass Pretentious Album Titles
7. Dr. Dog; B-Room
8. Phosphorescent; Muchacho
9. Cults; Static
10. Kanye; Yeezus

Honorable Mention
Joy Formidable; Wolf's Law
Guards; In Guards we Trust
Ra Ra Riot; Beta Love
Shout Out Louds, Optica
Dawes, Stories Don't End
The National; Trouble Will Find Me
What Made Milwaukee Famous; You Can't Fall Off the Floor
Jay Z; Magna Carta...Holy Grail
Neko Case; The Worse Things Get
Deer Tick; Negativity
Avett Brothers; Magpie and the Dandelion
Wild Child; The Runaround
Kurt Vile; Walkin on a Pretty Daze
White Denim; Corsicana Lemonade
Jake Bugg; Shangri La

Quite a few of the Honorable Mentions are albums I just got around to finally listening to recently.

I'll try to add favorite songs later, but as I go through my Spotify lists I see a ton of albums where I know I liked certain songs but I didn't flag them. It'll give me a good chance to re-visit some stuff I forgot about.

[Dark Star]

Songs, 2013
"Occult Banker" - Endless Boogie
"All I Know" - Washed Out
"Toe Cutter-Thumb Buster" - Thee Oh Sees
"Born To Die" - King Khan & The Shrines
"Shelter Song" - Temples
"These Shadows" - Wooden Shjips
"Female Robbery" - The Neighbourhood
"Spotlight" - Leagues
"The Corner Man" - Barrance Whitfield & The Savages
"Keep You" - Wild Belle
"State of the Art" - Jim James
"Misery Loves Company" - Blackfeet Braves
"Man I Need" - Jaguar Ma
"Broken Heart" - Dr. Dog
"In My Bed" - The Orwells

I Miss This, 2012
Allah-Las (all)

[NeilT]

No one's mentioned Elephants Gerald's "Kris Kissed Off Her Son".

[Bench]

No one's mentioned Elephants Gerald's "Kris Kissed Off Her Son".

It's a song of the year thread, not a song of the century one.

[Ebby Calvin]

Songs, 2013
"Occult Banker" - Endless Boogie
"All I Know" - Washed Out
"Toe Cutter-Thumb Buster" - Thee Oh Sees
"Born To Die" - King Khan & The Shrines
"Shelter Song" - Temples
"These Shadows" - Wooden Shjips
"Female Robbery" - The Neighbourhood
"Spotlight" - Leagues
"The Corner Man" - Barrance Whitfield & The Savages
"Keep You" - Wild Belle
"State of the Art" - Jim James
"Misery Loves Company" - Blackfeet Braves
"Man I Need" - Jaguar Ma
"Broken Heart" - Dr. Dog
"In My Bed" - The Orwells

I Miss This, 2012
Allah-Las (all)

Great ones.