MOG - brandarius's Posts

no new tune will make me happy...but CSS will Pt. 2

brandarius — Thu, 18 Sep 2008 18:17:55 GMT

CSS doing The Breeders "Cannonball"....

Check check check
One two

Spitting in a wishing well
Blown to hell crash
I'm the last splash

I know you little libertine
I know you're a real coocoo

Want you coocoo cannonball
Want you coocoo cannonball
Hey now in the shade, in the shade
Hey now in the shade, in the shade

I know you little libertine
I know you're a cannonball

I'll be your whatever you want
The bong in this reggae song

Hey now in the shade
Hey now in the shade
Want you coocoo cannonball
Want you coocoo cannonball

Spitting in a wishing well
Blown to hell crash
I'm the last splash

I'll be your whatever you want
The bong in this reggae song

Want you coocoo cannonball
Want you coocoo cannonball
Hey now in the shade, in the shade
Hey now in the shade, in the shade

no new tune makes me happy....so CSS will Pt.1

brandarius — Thu, 18 Sep 2008 18:11:49 GMT

had my hair did this past weekend and caught up on some reading... death + taxes had a great cover story on CSS, so i'm all in a mood. plus i'm in l-o-v-e.

here's a fab cover for a tired thursday...i'll never post on a Sunday, but you get 2 great CSS covers today.

first up is One Way Or Another/Teenage Kicks - two great songs from our sainted punk ancestors, wrapped up on one brilliant tune CSS-style.....

Michael Franti's back, "rebel rockers".....

brandarius — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 20:10:44 GMT

This is the album I needed at the beginning of the summer.....but at last, Michael Franti & Spearhead's latest masterpiece is released tomorrow. All Rebel Rockers kicks off with "Rude Boys Back in Town" and sets a free & peaceful mood with this little number, "When I walked into the party it was ready to go - punk rockers, reggae rockers all in a row."

And that is just the start.... "A Little Bit of Riddim" busts out with an absolute catch that could get your grandma shaking her groove thing and singing along. As Franti says, "..hear the sound, a little bit of rhythm makes the world go round."

"Life in the City" is the anthem of the modern masses. Combining funk, rap, punk and world beats makes hand-clapping fun while listening about how short life is, and how desperate we humans have become. "Remote Control" & "Hey World" are in the same vein. Kill your television (or networks) anyone?

On the other side of the coin, there is a ton of love and hope on this album too..... Tracks like "Say Hey (I Love You)", "I Got Love For You" and "Have a Little Faith" are your easy-listening favs.

In short, Franti takes us all in his lap and sings us the songs that remind us all that we are not alone, we all want the same things and are all one, "Nobody right, nobody wrong."

LOVE is the theme

HUMANITY is the platform

PEACE is the plan

must play on friday

brandarius — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 19:49:46 GMT

another retro tune from the great disgruntled pacific northwest

i think its the week for me to listen to old school mates bands, cause once again, another band that features a member who unfortuantely had to go to school with me at some point...today's band is the defunct The Fitness, with "Chauffeur". gawd this song is high-larious! it never gets old.

I don't give a shit about this week's success
It's the scandal and preversion
What you do with your excess
Same sex lovers or maybe with your brother
The map of the stars is my guide
I take them to their houses but I never go inside
And it's probably my name on her bottle of pills
And I'll take the fall for his twelve year old girls

Chauffeur

Started with a wax and a wash
Bel Aire and Malibu
Back and forth on the 101, yeah
I'll go to east L.A. for you
And on our way to the Hollywood Squares
you might kill your lover in a game of truth or dare
But you cant be late to your award ceremony
so i'll drop you off first and then i'll dump the body

Chauffeur
Can you take me where I need to go?
Chauffeur
Do you know where I can score some blow?
Chauffeur
I'll take you where you need to go
Chauffeur
And i know where you can score some blow
Chauffeur
'Cause I'm the one who's in the know
Yeah im the one who's in the know

Yeah I forgot about your appointment with Joan
Hold on a second and I'll get her on the phone
We're busy then I guess we'll have to post pone
You're passing out scripts because they're shooting
My attentative profile is rolling sunset
while you're in the back giving as good as you get

retro love as laughter....

brandarius — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 00:51:09 GMT

hi mog,

i'm sorry i'm too busy to ever write on you anymore. today, i finally found a moment to rest my sweaty wrists on the keyboard and post a little sometin.

today it's sam jayne, it's love as laughter, it's home. all in celebration of the release of their millionth ignored album, Holy.

sam, the mastermind behind the band, always sat in the back of the class with me. he was my comedic savior many days...i will never forget the time we read of mice and men. the man never changes, i swear he has looked the same since he was 7.

LAL started in seattle way back when sam was done with Lync. now they base themselves out of brooklyn. check them out when you have a chance (recently toured with the great Modest Mouse). incurablyerin wrote a great review of the Holy album, which is on constant rotation in the car this last week.

but since i'm too busy to write my own review or even decide on the best song off Holy, I will post an older song of LAL...my favorite song by them ever....it's one of the songs, that peeps always ask, "who is this? i would say this band is second in line behind people asking me "who's this?" when i play anything by weezer. (oh yes, most people i know don't know weezer by ear.) this is the chacha song.

anyway mog, i hope you are well. i know you are growing up and getting all big britches n' stuff and from what it looks like, change looks good on you.

check out "margarita's" off of Destination 2000. it's a good friday song for a thursday that will never end.

xo,

more or less

brandarius — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 22:29:36 GMT

I think i have officially made MOG the place where i go and get it out (cry, scream, scratch, whatever).

I really just want to write a review of the new Dandy Warhols album that is not released to the end of summer, but i can't find the time or head space. Perhaps I should just become a hermit?

Or maybe it's because I really just want to review the Santigold album but what is to say that has not been said already....or perhaps I just want to write another review of Jason Anderson, because I know that isn't helping the cause at all.

Okay, really I just wanted to play a lost gem, back from the day - "More or Less" by the Screaming Trees of off Sweet Oblivion. I feel like one (a screaming tree) today and well, the words are already written, so why would I need to make new ones up

Now that we've run this road so many times
Tonight it will not take us home
Gonna go to that deep river
Where the waters moving slow

Feels like theres nothing to explain
(nothing left to hear)
One more or less its all the same
Now that its feeling so much colder
(coming back again)
Just be glad that its all over

Now that weve closed our eyes so many times
Tonight I cannot see a thing
Gonna go to that deep river
Where the waters moving slow

Feels like theres nothing to explain
(nothing left to hear)
And now you know just who to blame
For why youre feeling so much colder
(coming back again)
Just be glad that its all over
Gonna go to that deep river

Got angst?

Covering Boston with Sleater-Kinney

brandarius — Tue, 10 Jun 2008 21:55:31 GMT

I know both bands are long gone, and it sure as hell isn't Sunday, but I am under the covers....
I'm broken today - that is all I have to say about that....this song is good for that. Sleater-Kinney wrote their own version, so punk rock.... why is everyone so safe nowadays....?

more than a feeling. more than a feeling. when i hear that old song that you sang to me. i started dreaming. that i wouldn't feel any of this.
(two, three, four)
lying beside me in my bed. once you died inside my head. feeling more things than i ever could. hating you worse than i ever showed. and i don't want to feel again.
(two, three, four)
more than a feeling. when i hear those same words that you said to me. i started screaming. but you couldn't hear anything.
(two, three, four)
lying beside me in my bed. once you died inside my head. feeling more things than i ever could. hating you worse than i ever showed. and i don't want to feel again.
(two, three, four)
more than a feeling. when i sing that old song that i wrote for you. i started dreaming. that i wouldn't feel any of this again. again again again

Earth to the Dandy Warhols

brandarius — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 15:56:02 GMT

The new Dandy Courtney's is superfabulous, totally couldn't stop playing it last night....really loud!

I'm not usually a very big fan of this band, but this album is so beyond their usual, I'm just impressed enough to play it more and spread the word to my fellow moggers. Oh wait, aren't they huge in the UK? (I know, I will shut up now).

Perhaps like me, you have not given the DW's the chance they deserve? If so, you should check this song out....

More Jason Anderson - The Hopeful & The Unafraid Pt. 2

brandarius — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 20:20:02 GMT

So earlier this week I posted a quick review of Jason Anderson’s The Hopeful & The Unafraid and here I am following-up with another post on the same album. I not only feel the need to share with you all another gorgeous song by Mr. Anderson (watch, I will post them all eventually!), but also want to prove that he is not just another Bruce Springsteen parody.
“My latest obsession is a little unshaven man named Jason Anderson. His album The Hopeful and The Unafraid on K Records is on constant rotation for the last couple weeks. Not only are there remarkable, intense songs but also you can’t help but pick up the super positive energy of a happy solo-genius. I can see why Calvin Johnson put this guy’s record out.
While you listen to this song, you might hear the bastard mutant love child of Bruce Springsteen and the late Joe Strummer. If you watch the video, you might wonder if this is vintage Jack Johnson. Nope, none of the above – It’s all Jason.”
If you listened to the first track I posted, “El Paso”, you heard an 8-minute song that is so close to Springsteen, it’s almost embarrassing. But there is magic behind Mr. Anderson, which makes even the most conscious forgive him quickly. The man makes music with his audience, stays off the stage, loses his ego and most definitely sings his precious heart out.
Fabulous MOGGER, Zarpex, wrote:
“I think someone like this is could really have an important effect on rock; I don't dig live shows as a rule, but here's an extremely promising direction. Glenn Tillbrook (from what I gather) does something comparable in his solo shows - apparently the audience sitting in their chairs singing along at the top of their lungs isn't involvement enough for him; he will lead them out of whatever venue it is on mad, unplanned dashes down crowded streets, playing his guitar all the while the singing uninterrupted. They might wind up boarding a subway, or running through an office building, or into someone's house.
But maybe this guy, however close to the bullseye he's getting, isn't quite the one to pull it off. I'm hearing a TON of Springsteen, and I could never abide his muck...
Still; like I said - or hopefully implied - this is may be just the right new territory for rock to explore. Humanize it.
Good spotting.”
Word. I love candor. “Humanize it” – brilliant.
But yes, I do think Mr. Anderson could be the man who could change the way we see rock shows.

Okay start the song “July 4, 2004” now.
Are you listening? Is this not a radio hit? On K Records?
Gawd, give this guy an hour on NPR and see what happens.

The Hopeful & The Unafraid

brandarius — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 21:38:45 GMT

I must officially be a dirty, lazy hippie, because I can’t stop posting all this happy “love everyone” crap lately…but it’s all so good. I guess never-ending global conflict brings out the granola in us all.

My latest obsession is a little unshaven man named Jason Anderson. His album The Hopeful and The Unafraid on K Records is on constant rotation for the last couple weeks. Not only are there remarkable, intense songs but also you can’t help but pick up the super positive energy of a happy solo-genius. I can see why Calvin Johnson put this guy’s record out.

While you listen to this song, you might hear the bastard mutant love child of Bruce Springsteen and the late Joe Strummer. If you watch the video, you might wonder if this is vintage Jack Johnson. Nope, none of the above – It’s all Jason.

Apparently Mr. Anderson plays a lot of house parties and underground shows. He makes it a habit to play at the same level of the audience, teaching them the chorus before the song and encouraging any type of participation.

If you have a chance to check out the entire album, listen to it loud and on repeat, until you get yourself singing along.

Yup, camp counselors leading group sing-a-longs can be rock stars now.

To Old To Die Young by Tall Firs

brandarius — Thu, 24 Apr 2008 16:26:30 GMT

"To Old To Die Young" is my new favorite saying....replacing "Die Young, Stay Pretty" from my vocabulary. That is what age does to you. It all changes everything. Never would I have thought I would ever see my 34th birthday, but I have now and its really not that bad.
To Old To Die Young is just not a fabulous thing to say, it's also the title of the new album by NYC's Tall Firs on Thurston Moore's label, Ecstatic Peace. The Tall Firs remind me that hippies can make beautiful melodies and write the best sing-songs out there.
"So Messed Up" is the song that most people are listening to, but I prefer "Hairdo". Take a listen, you will not be disappointed.

I love you, shuffle baby...

brandarius — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 16:33:30 GMT

Do you ever have one of those days when your iTunes shuffle truly does its thing to perfection? Sure we all have our moments.

I am fascinated by shuffle in general - always have been... In a way, I've always felt a special kinship to the shuffle feature, like it had to read my mind to know what I was in the mood for. It knows me inside and out – shuffle gets me – it is truly in-tune with my soul. In these moments is when I love shuffle the most.

This morning was one of the best shuffles I have had in a long time. Not one song needed to be skipped over. Spinning the best tracks by Akron/Family, Brian Jonestown Massacre, Spoon, TV on the Radio, Billy Bragg The Cave Singers and The Halo Benders. It was a beautiful Friday morning even though the coffee was cold.

Happy la la moments all over the place. Thanks again for understanding me better than anyone, shuffle baby.

Here was my favorite song of the morning, When They Come to Murder Me by the mighty Black Francis. Play it loud.

Girls Rock!

brandarius — Wed, 16 Apr 2008 21:46:12 GMT

What do underage girls, feminist role models, social change, roller derby leagues, hip-hop, punk rock and The Gossip all have in common?

Rock ‘n Roll Camp.

You have probably heard of the long-running camp by now, but did you know there is now a documentary too?

"Girls Rock!" is a modern realilty rock opera & documentary about an all girls Rock n' Roll Camp, located in Portland, OR. This documentary is not just for rockers & riot grrls, it's for anyone who has ever felt lost, estranged or misunderstood.

Rock n' Roll Camp is a day camp for girls 8-18. Campers at all levels learn an instrument, form a band and perform to a large audience all within their intense 1-week experience.

Rock n' Roll Camp is funded by a number of amazing donors including the likes of the Beastie Boys, Sonic Youth, Pearl Jam, Death Cab for Cutie, Sleater-Kinney, The Gossip and The Decemberists.

"Tearjerker and rockumentary are two genres that don't generally go hand in hand. But you'll need a hanky and your Joan Jett lighter when watching "Girls Rock!"...weaving interviews with campers and counselors together with insightful feminist factoids and an amazing femme-rock score, the film paints an inspiring portrait of how camp uses musicianship to help girls bond, build self-esteem and rock out." - Errin Donahue, Bust Magazine

Around these parts, we call it “Sleater-Kinney Camp” but whatever you call it, say it loud and proud. This camp saves lives - you will not believe what some of these campers came from. Learn more about RnR Camp here.

Seaweed

brandarius — Thu, 03 Apr 2008 19:32:23 GMT

I read that Face to Face was getting back together the other day and for some reason, it reminded me of Seaweed, one of my fav pop-punk band from the 90's. Were they not supposed to get back together and do a new album? Haven't really heard a thing since their shows last year.

I thought I would do a little toast to “Seattle's Superchunk” today and see if any of my youth returns…Gawd, no one could jump in unison like that band could…The energy during their live shows should have been bottled and sold on the mass market.

Seaweed - Kid Candy - 1993

My fav song that Seaweed ever did was called “Stargirl”. I remember buying this 7” with a Napalm Death record when I was 16 or 17. I have no idea where those records ended up. For the life of me, I cannot get a copy of Stargirl at all. Argh, oh well Squint is cool too.

IMHO, Seaweed was the most overlooked band of that era.

Kap Bambino - bringing back the grrl...

brandarius — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 21:29:20 GMT

Zero Life Night Vision is an album I tucked away for too long and now I am sorry that I waited for as long as I did, as B really likes it. 2 double-jointed thumbs up.
Kap Bambino is a french duo who seem to be a club fav in far off places like Europe, Japan & Mexico ... KB is comprised of Caroline Martial's voxs & energy and Orion Bouvier's mathematical mind & head-banging. Martial is apparently a "hot young model in London & NY" as well... Boys obviously like this band (as you will see in the video) and I like how she writes on her arm - so Bikini Kill.
Watch them live and you will probably be taken back to another decade, find yourself comparing Ms. Martial to the likes of Kathleen Hanna or Wendy o. Williams or your least favorite high school cheerleader.

Perhaps Karen O will get a peer soon?

Oasis & Ryan Adams - together at last!

brandarius — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 19:49:41 GMT

I have read this all over the place, and even (ugh) checked the Oasis website for the confirmation. Oasis will play a handful of live shows with Ryan Adams in Canada. And they are coming to my hometown, Seattle for the first show (which is actually in the US, but we practice Canadian ethics and language here)!

I have to admit, I used to make fun of Oasis alot. I helped produce a show back in the 90's with them and Hole, and surprisingly, there was no fighting or any drama at all. Although Oasis did not allow anyone but their entourage near their dressing room wing, but their staff was pleasant as hell.

But after that mellow day, I decided to actually listen to What's the Story Morning Glory and found myself singing along just like the rest of the robots and loving every moment of it. So, I have to say, I will be at this show with bells on....and early enough to see the great Ryan Adams, who usually does not disappoint (although I am usually ready to go to bed half way through his set, so let's hope there is lasting energy to this performance).

This is kind of cool for Seattle too. We get passed over by some of these super tours and heck; we didn't have U2 for almost 20 years!

Read the official release here. And enjoy the overplayed “Wonderwall” cover by Ryan Adams.

reflections on the raconteurs

brandarius — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 18:47:54 GMT

As much as I would like to just say, "This is a White Stripes album without Meg," I guess there is always a nicer way to look at The Raconteur’s new release, Consolers of the Lonely. I think it's just one of those things where you have to decide for yourself. I find the entire album a beautiful collection of driving songs where Mr. White shows us his mild diversity. I think he likes the 70’s . It’s just fun, and like I said before, a good album to listen to on a Sunday drive.
My fav tunes so far are “You Don’t Understand Me” (emo), “Hold Up” (pop punk), “Pull This Blanket Off” (Elton John piano tune) and of course, “Salute Your Solution” (pure rock n’ roll).
And on a very personal note, what is up with the rude moggers? Is there really a need to be playing "old school" and "new school" here? I mean, come on....what makes you so old school because you have been mogging 6 months longer than some newer passionate moggers? I was raised that old school is a state of mind, not a cut-off date. (And that usually anyone claiming to be “old school” is just a poseur).
Anyway, like I said this is personal, and I was personally told to “f’ off” (and accused of being sexually excited by his original post)by a particular well-noted mogger on Friday. Totally unwarranted and unnecessary (and certainly untrue on the "wet" part). I just made a comment on a blog post that I thought was pretty punk. Oh well, so it goes... it’s just immature and for the most part, we are all adults here… Sorry old school moggers, if I am not allowed to play, then why is MOG a public site?
Okay then. Peace.

Salute Your Solution
I seem to think I think I got a little situation So listen to me sister listen maybe you can help I think I gave a lot of bobbles my consideration But not for me they always seem to be for someone else
Why all the people always seem to just be on vacation What do I get from never touching anything at all I'm like a trash can holding all the information And every single time I'm in the field to be taught
Salute your solution, now, salute your solution
I find myself just looking worthy of my best intentions Ignoring any kinda pause I might receive at all All others seem to find a road that's tough to satisfaction I find a ridicule that isn't cool for me at all
And if there's one little answer to this complication Someone somewhere help me settle what is on my mind There's only one I'm only taking getting and receiving There's only one I'm taking And only one I'm taking
And only one I'm taking And only one I'm taking And only one I'm taking
And only one
And I got what I got all despite you And I get what I get just to spite you
And I got what I got all despite you And I get what I get just to spite you
And I got what I got all despite you And I get what I get just to spite you
I find myself just looking worthy of my best intentions Ignoring any kinda pause I might receive at all And all the others seem to find myself a satisfaction I find a ridicule that isn't cool for me at all
But if there's one little answer to this complication Someone somewhere some help me settle what is on my mind There's only one I'm only taking getting and receiving There's only one I'm taking And only one I'm taking
And only one I'm taking And only one I'm taking And only one I'm taking And only one

Who is Rise Robots Rise?

brandarius — Fri, 28 Mar 2008 23:00:00 GMT

According to WIkipedia, Rise Robots Rise is:

Rise Robots Rise is an experimental hip-hop band, signed to TVT in the early 1990s, and later to Fibre Productions. The songs of "Spawn" are credited to J. Mendelson and B. Nitze. Tracey Amos often provides guest vocals.
Singer Tom Jones covered the song "If I Only Knew" on a single released in 1994. It is also featured on "Tom Jones Releaded: Greatest Hits", a collection of covers.

Well, that didn't help at all. (Tom Jones, for real?) The liner notes of their s/t on TVT don't further my efforts.

Anyway, if you have a moment, check out Rise Robots Rise - "Flowers & Birds". This song is almost 15 years old and still entirely relevant.

A perfect combo of rage & hope….

Man Man's Rabbit Habits

brandarius — Fri, 14 Mar 2008 21:55:42 GMT

I like tongue twisters and that title, my friend, is a twister for sure.
Man Man is a freak show, and their new release Rabbit Habits fits the circus hour just fine.
Haven't heard of Man Man yet? Think Scissor Sisters meet The Arcade Fire. Or if you are more into the retro bands, imagine Tom Wait's fronting Devo. Yeah, it makes no sense but it all does in the end. Your ears are happy, aren't they?

They play SXSW tonight and are on a long tour, sure to hit a town near you. Need a night of Vaudeville and rock to dance to? Go see them and no need to order out for more.

The Tom Fun Orchestra

brandarius — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 23:30:48 GMT

Let’s face it, I’m a sucker for the brass, strings & chaos. Oh Tom Fun!

But I also can’t help but fall for the reminder of Tom Waits worn voice or the darkness of Nick Cave’s twisted lyrics. Oh, now they are channeling The Pogues. Oh Tom Fun!
A friend called the other night and said he just polished off a bottle of wine and that he saw God – all while listening to this album. Oh Tom Fun!
I didn’t find God here, but I did find some tunes that I find more addictive than the search for the almighty one. Bless the Tom Fun Orchestra!
The Tom Fun Orchestra’s debut album, You Will Land With a Thud, will definitely be on my 2008 Top 10. I can’t imagine this band will sit quiet for long….
Check out one track treat here and find the full length out on Feb. 28!

Live Beirut: Black Sessions

brandarius — Tue, 12 Feb 2008 20:46:35 GMT

Beirut appeared on the Black Sessions (live broadcasts on French radio station France Inter) back in Nov 07.
If you have not heard, get your hands on this. Superb! Or as the French would say, Superbe!

finger's crossed

brandarius — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 20:28:37 GMT

THE GRAND ARCHIVES
So sometimes you find a song that just speaks to you, when you are bored to death with the rest of the album.
The Grand Archives are all sorts of hype and I see why they get some props, but for the most part this album puts me to sleep. Their beards are also getting old. Real old.
However, The Crime Window, with it's fancy horns and sing song chorus, I just can't help but post it. Check this....like they took a shot of Andrew WK or something.
P.S. I know I haven't been posting. I have to say I'm having some trouble with MOG working these days...one of my hard drives (with all my music) went south, so I've been recreating my music library and things are just not the same.

Foo Fighters & Against Me! - WWHTI?

brandarius — Tue, 11 Dec 2007 00:51:28 GMT

Well the Foo Fighters & Against Me! announced their upcoming tour dates together. Weird + strange but true? Yes Mary, I get it. AM! is becoming big panties and the Foo's are gonna look a little wimpy following them. Ah shucks, even I would go see it, just to see the event. So, while I am pretty sure you have listened to the Foo Fighter's already, let's take a look at Against Me! today, just in case they flew under your radar (or you are not watching MTV this week).
If you are not educated on the past of AM!, here is a brief synopsis: Tom Gabel started AM! as a solo acoustic punk-a-billy act when he was a mere 17 years old. AM! became a full band eventually and they quickly became known as the real modern punk band. Black flag carrying, MRR Bible toting and D-I-Y all the way. Their first full-length album, Reinventing Axl Rose, was anything but ...or was it?
"Baby, I'm an Anarchist" was truly the stand out song from Reinventing Axl Rose and crusty activists everywhere starting singing this sing-a-long song around their song circle more than Jane's Addiction's "Jane Says".
Baby, I'm An Anarchist! from Reinventing Axl Rose Against Me!, 2002 -- No Idea Records " Through the best of times, Through the worst of times, Through Nixon and through Bush, Do you remember '36? We went our seperate ways. You fought for Stalin. I fought for freedom. You believe in authority. I believe in myself. I'm a molotov cocktail. You're Dom Perignon. Baby, what's that confused look in your eyes? What I'm trying to say is that I burn down buildings While you sit on a shelf inside of them. You call the cops On the looters and piethrowers. They call it class war, I call it co-conspirators. 'Cause baby, I'm an anarchist, You're a spineless liberal. We marched together for the eight-hour day And held hands in the streets of Seattle, But when it came time to throw bricks Through that Starbucks window, You left me all alone. You watched in awe at the red, White, and blue on the fourth of july. While those fireworks were exploding, I was burning that fucker And stringing my black flag high, Eating the peanuts That the parties have tossed you In the back seat of your father's new Ford. You believe in the ballot, Believe in reform. You have faith in the elephant and jackass, And to you, solidarity's a four-letter word. We're all hypocrites, But you're a patriot. You thought I was only joking When I screamed "Kill Whitey!" At the top of my lungs At the cops in their cars And the men in their suits. No, I won't take your hand And marry the State. 'Cause baby, I'm an anarchist, You're a spineless liberal. We marched together for the eight-hour day And held hands in the streets of Seattle, But when it came time to throw bricks Through that Starbucks window, You left me all alone."

Fast forward a few days and AM! signs to Fat Wreck Chords and they release two more brilliant albums, As the Eternal Cowboy and Searching for A Former Clarity. The later, even with its staunch political stands, open drug references & dislike for the recording industry, was their ticket to signing a major label deal with Sire Records. This decision alienated some of Against Me!'s longtime fans, who felt that the band finally signing to a major label betrayed their anarchistic ethics and longtime beliefs, but other fans remain supportive of the band's decision. Against Me! has stated, however, that a large factor in the decision to switch to Sire was the opportunity to work with Butch Vig, producer for Nirvana's Nevermind. New Wave, released in 2007 is the title of AM!'s major label debut. The band was booked on more big tours and like all former hardcore punks who go major, they start to get beat up by crusties. It's funny how that works. Apparently, Mr. Gabel was not too far off when he named his first album, Reinventing Axl Rose. It might have taken six years, a couple albums and a mass load of touring to get to the point of Axl stardom, but it seems as if Tom is the closest thing out there to him at this time:
"On August 13th 2007, Gabel was charged with battery in Tallahassee, Florida for an incident in which Gabel allegedly entered into a confrontation with a cafe patron, resulting in Gabel allegedly bashing the man's head against a cafe table. Gabel was permitted to perform at Against Me!'s concert that night, but was taken into custody immediately after. He was released on a $500 bail the next morning."

The story goes that there was a fliers encouraging fans to ban the AM! show all over the neighborhood of the club where they were performing that night. A cafe patron walked up to Gabel and asked him about his moral differences. That is where things heated up. You know, I usually don't like violence, but if I was Tom Gabel, I would have done the same thing. It's lonely at the top...and hard for those just trying to make a living on their art. No one ever does make $, unless they "sell out". Plus Tom has red hair. Just ask Courtney, Tom. Just ask her!
So as an Against Me! fan, I have to say I don't give a crap at all about what label they are signed to, or how they make their money. We are all whores in some way shape or form....just not all of us have the respectable titles that go along with the job. Now, I have to say as an AM! fan, I am not impressed with Butch Vig's production of New Wave. I was shocked at first, but then I realized that it probably does not matter what Sir Vig did to the AM! album. New Waveseems like it should have been their band debut album. When ever I feel this way, I start thinking about which of their old albums should be re-released for radio play. But really, not many songs are radio friendly, so New Wave was their best attempt. Hell, they even have Tegan (of Tegan & Sara fame) singing backup vocals.

My recommendations for getting your feet wet on Against Me! goes as follows: 1. Reinventing Axl Rose (2002) 2. Searching for a Former Clarity (2005) 3. As the Eternal Cowboy (2003) 4. Crime (as Forgiven by Against Me!) EP (2001) 5. The Acoustic EP (2001) 6. New Wave (2007)
And here is your taste test. Listen to AM! a few times before you make a judgment. One friend made the most hilarious statement I ever heard upon his first AM! listen:

"Since when did Dee Snider front a punk band?"??

Inner Beauty

brandarius — Mon, 03 Dec 2007 19:38:14 GMT

granted i never usually write about folks i have never seen live, but i can't help myself. i have been listening to this Inner - Lovetheonlyway album, and while there is a part of me that thinks this album must have already done by some unknown somewhere out there, i am generally surprised and happy to know that this is a new album. Inner is Jennifer Turner of Furside. can't really classify her album, but the closest random description/comparison i can come up with is IF Mia Zapata was still alive and collaborating with Mary Timony (and Suzi Quatro produced it).

What if the whole world was my ash tray?

GraySkul: Knit the Hip Hop (or What Are They Going To Call This Genre?)

brandarius — Wed, 28 Nov 2007 01:24:01 GMT

Bloody Ricketts, Bloody Radio!!!

The PNW goth-girl/shoe-gazer/emo-rocker has somehow discovered a genre she knows nothing about – Hip Hop. She might be the last to convert, but at least it means something to her ….rather than just another bandwagon one must catch to stay cool.

Grayskul, comprised of Seattle MC’s Onry Ozzborn and JFK, are the artists responsible for sealing the deal on this new music experience for the naïve music lover. Hearing Grayskul’s Missing from Bloody Radio for the first time, our heroine had to pull her trendy black vintage Mercedes to the side of the road while traveling through Seattle’s Georgetown (Rat City) on her way home. The song stopped her in her tracks – literally.

"This is me," she said. "This song is about my friends." She then started remorsefully weeping and tried to listen to the radio announcer’s synopsis of the song… All she could hear her say, "This is what hip-hop from Seattle should sound like." That statement blew her mind and the world opened up from there.

Grayskul celebrated the release of Bloody Radio, their latest concept album a few weeks ago at Chop Suey in Seattle with a crapload of attention. Just ask Mr. Lif, Abstract Rude, Canibus and Aesop Rock. They all make contributions to Grayskul’s second album and every worthy music trade is singing their rare worthwhile praises as well.

Reflecting on the concept of Bloody Radio, Onry says, "Back in the day, it used to just be categorized as "hip-hop". Nowadays there's crunk, screwed, emo, gangsta, underground, club, horrorcore, etc. We basically look at our new album as reversal brainwash--hip-hop music somewhat sounding like all these genres, but interwoven with message, substance, concepts, wittiness, opinion, and most of all, honesty while still maintaining a sense of humor, imagination, and originality. Bloody Radio has something for everybody."

Onry is absolutely right. Check out Missing, which features the lovely Andrea Zollo (of Pretty Girls Make Graves fame) on backing vocals.

Tightly, winding the unseen bird wants the world spring Finally aligning the last time I heard that bird sing Left a trail of mouse bones Falling leaves spell out my name Trying, finding my way Jeffrey’s missing Michael’s missing Robert’s missing Take their souls away Jeffrey’s missing Michael’s missing Robert’s missing Why did they go away?

Reserved Rats

brandarius — Tue, 06 Nov 2007 22:19:55 GMT

That Modest Mouse band is hilarious. I can’t help but laugh at how funny their promo pictures are these days. Remember when all the pics were the trio of young men who look like little boys? And now, a totally different thing is going on there. Johnny Marr’s wrinkles and some of the more recent members just kind of don’t fit. Sometimes I just wonder what the hell Isaac Brock is smoking…and then other times, I just know exactly what it is.

I’ve been listening to this live rendition of I Came As A Rat, and it's pissing me off cause I love it so damn much. If you follow the lyrics, you will see they changed. If you know me, you know why I choose this song today.
Turn this up loud!
I Came As A Rat Modest Mouse Live in Philadelphia at the Electric Factory - 2007/05/03 I don't know But I been told He’s baking cakes Inside our souls Stayed awake Took a nap I got myself, My bottles back I’m breaking them out on the street Walking 'round on my own bare feet I do not need you to tell me That I am not a cat.
We caught a ride we caught some air He’s never gonna cut his hair It takes more time to make a fake We night swam down in the lake. And washed the dirt off our intentions Prattled on about bad inventions.
Well I didn't know But I’m sure I’ve been told I would die before I get old But I guess there’s more time To make a fake.
Lucky, lucky, lucky me again Looks like its time for me To use my feet again...
Hold on to what you need We got a knack for fucked up history. Hold on to what you need Well we've got a knack For messing up our own history
Lucky, lucky, lucky, lucky, me again. Well looks like I’ll sorta try To use my feet again.
Hold on
To
What
You
Need

The Ike Reilly Assassination

brandarius — Fri, 19 Oct 2007 18:38:05 GMT

Wow, these fruitloops have been around for some time....
I am really digging the We Belong To The Staggering Evening album. Just not at all what I expected, yet as usual, I have fallen in love with the dopey lyrics and twang.
If you like Brian Jonestown, Bob Dylan or the Buddha, I think you will dig Ike Reilly.

A Calvin Johnson moment....

brandarius — Thu, 18 Oct 2007 20:51:25 GMT

Calvin Johnson is my hero!

His deep voice, the dance moves, the damn love songs.... Bea† Happening, The Halo Benders, Dub Narcotic Sound System, The (original) Go Team, Freaking K Records.... What more do you need?

This little ditty always gets us singing together:

old halo benders/classic Calvin:

Burn Don't Freeze

brandarius — Wed, 17 Oct 2007 20:21:08 GMT

I don't know why, but all my posts keep disappearing...so I'm putting another one up (gotta make sure I have something to lose now....)
I really doubt that anyone reads these things anyway.... I’m a lurker in my online life – not one for posting hoards of info or reviews. My normal state is anything but wallflower-like, however we always have to have an alter ego, right?

Today, I want to celebrate, worship and blog about Sleater-Kinney. It's been over a year since they did their last show, and they certainly were around for longer than a decade, but every time I listen to them, it’s always like the first time.
“I could be demure like girls who are soft For boys who are fearful of getting an earful But I gotta rock! I'd rather be a ladyman!” Ballad of a Ladyman (All Hands on the Bad One – 2000)
I have never felt a kinship like I feel for the ladies of S-K. Yes, we are similar in age and perhaps that is why, every time a new record came out, I felt we were going through the same stages in life. For me, it’s always been an equal love of their lyrics and the music itself. And while the old music always is nice, I can’t help buy wonder what a new album would sound like or be about. This grrrrl can’t help it! There is not one band out there that I can compare them to, no one to replace them. This fact makes me very grumpy and yet challenged.
“Move it up one time for LOVE! Janet, Carrie, can you feel it? Knife through the heart of our exploitation. Ladies, one time can you hear it? Disassemble your discrimination!” Step Aside (One Beat – 2002)
I’ve always carried the S-K flag proud…and yet in my life, I have yet to meet anyone who loves them, or even likes them for that matter. Maybe you are one of the hordes that always say you can’t stand Corin’s voice. I have nothing to say to you people, except for why the hell are there more of you, then me? I say, give them another chance….you might be surprised. They certainly surprised even the biggest fans with their last record, The Woods.
“You come around sounding 1972 You did nothing new with 1972 Where's the fuck you? Where's the black and blue?!” Entertain (The Woods – 2005)
Besides the fine music, the fucking punk-as-fuck attitude sealed the deal for me. Always stuck to their roots and never signed with a major. Even though we all know they had plenty of opps. Yep, Subpop was a jump, but perfect for the last record and they still get props for that move.
“And for all the ladies out there I wish We could write more than the next marketing bid. Culture is what we make it, Yes it is! Now is the time, now is the time, now is the time, To invent, invent, invent, invent, invent, invent...” -#1 Must Have (All Hands on the Bad One – 2000)
Perhaps their “infinite hiatus” means they will play again someday, together..Yeah right. Well, I can’t wait and I will keep my fingers crossed. In the meantime, I will pretend there isn’t a chance in hell.
“Rollercoaster, want to go back to the way things were I'm on a rollercoaster, want to get back on the Tilt-a-Whirl” -Rollercoaster (The Woods - 2005)
If you are ready to give S-K another chance but never really listened to them, here is my suggestion of how to start: Buy the following albums and listen to them in this order. 1. The Woods – Subpop 2. Dig Me Out – Kill Rock Stars 3. The Hot Rock – Kill Rock Stars 4. Call The Doctor – Kill Rock Stars 5. One Beat – Kill Rock Stars 6. All Hands on the Bad One - Kill Rock Stars 7. Sleater-Kinney - s/t

I Wanna Be Your Joey Ramone - Call The Doctor “it's fine when it's all mine it's on my wall it's in my head memorize it till i'm dead it's yours now i'm so bored
i wanna be your joey ramone pictures of me on your bedroom door invite you back after the show i'm the queen of rock and roll
i just don't care are you that scared? i swear they're looking right at me push to the front so i can see it's what i thought it's rock'n'roll
i wanna be your thurston moore wrestle on the bedroom floor always leave me wanting more throw away those old records
we go downtown put on our best frowns give me a chance i know i can dance it's fine cuz it's all mine”
This is classic S-K - The End of You