The homie, @StrangerDay, just sent over this awesome rap edit of Gold Panda’s Marriage. The track itself is an awesome instrumental that sets the perfect table for some lyrics. And now for a few words from the man himself, “hope all is well…. Something to jam poolside over the weekend: holler!!”
Jam I will. All damn day.
Bon Iver entered the indie-folk scene with its first album, For Emma, Forever Ago in 2007. That first record, written by lead singer and songwriter Justin Vernon alone in a cabin in Wisconsin, was featured on several network television shows and garnered massive success for the group. Although the circumstances have changed for Bon Iver’s second effort, Vernon has delivered another wonderfully original, quality collection of songs.
The majority of the tracks are slow-paced and soothing, but the album is still energetic and engaging, never leaving you bored. According to Vernon, each song on the newly, self-titled album, Bon Iver, represents a different place; and this artistic choice is apparent in the unique tone and style of each track. The variation makes for a surprising and interesting listen, with unexpected instruments like synthesizers and banjos making appearences. The new album lacks the solemn unity of Vernon’s first record, but his signature tones and collections of voices remain. Bon Iver releases on June 21st, but for now enjoy the track, Minnesota, WI.
Download: Bon Iver - Minnesota, WI
Even before releasing their first record, Lafayette, Louisiana band GIVERS has received an impressive amount of recognition. GIVERS has been praised by PASTE magazine, Stereogum, and was even named one of the “Ten Bands that Rocked South by Southwest” by TIME magazine. GIVERS just released Up Up Up, the first single off their upcoming debut, In Light, which comes out in early June.
Listening to this track it’s easy to see what all of the buzz is about. Up Up Up is a great song to kick off your summer, with an amazingly catchy chorus, homegrown guitar, tinkling piano, and a signature indie hand-clap beat that can’t get out of your head. It’s a feel good song with just the right combination of folk and pop. The song escalates from vocals and simple drums to an energetic indie-pop chorus, and definitely makes GIVERS a band to keep an eye on.
Download: GIVERS - Up Up Up
Jamie Woon’s music is a unique blend of tender, soulful vocals laid on top of simple drum kit beats and samples. The combination is something I haven’t heard before, but somehow it works. Woon’s smooth and distinct voice contrasts the colder, synthetic instrumentals really well. His first full-length record, Mirrorwriting, begins with Night Air, the single that got him recognized when it was first released on his debut EP, Wayfaring Stranger. The hit song, with its catchy chorus and spacey vibe, is definitely the stand out track of the album. But more R&B-esque songs like TMRW are also unique, enjoyable tracks. Overall, this odd but intruiging mix of genres is definitely worth a listen.
Download: Jamie Woon - TMRW
With all the crazy genre-hopping music being released recently, it’s refreshing to hear a good example of pure, hard-hitting indie rock. Three years after releasing their sophomore record, Midnight Boom, The Kills are back with the same raw, soulful sound with their new record, Blood Pressures. Listening to this record, it’s hard to imagine that it was made by just a couple of friends who met while staying in the same hotel with their bands at the time. The duo creates a wide variety of sounds on their third effort: from raw, grainy guitar riffs to softer ballads with tender vocals. The record opens up with my personal favorite, Future Starts Slow, and its hard hitting drum intro welcomes you into an enjoyable set of nothing but 100% indie rock.
Download: The Kills - Future Starts Slow
photo by Jason Travis
The Coathangers are a modern day, Dirty South answer to The Runaways; and a hell of a lot better if you ask me. We’ve been listening to their records for quite some time now and we’re happy to report that they’re hitting us in the face again with a new track inspired by NOLA called Hurricane. The track is from their upcoming album Larceny & Lace, releasing on June 7th.
Download: The Coathangers - Hurricane
Cristo Disco originally introduced this track to us a while back, and it randomly came up on Georgios‘ iPod the other day. Ever since, we’ve been bumping this track several times a day during our tour across The South. It’s hilarious, but if you’re stuck in a farty van for hours at a time, this song can give you the motivation you need to power through the last few hundred miles of a grueling trip.
Download: Lil’ Suzy - Take Me In Your Arms
This is what I’ve been listening to for a few days straight ever since JSol & Apple Juice played it for us while we were meeting on an upcoming project this week. New sound of ATL? Maaaybe!
Download the entire album - Rittz - White Jesus
Everyone’s favorite Swedish 3-piece rock outfit is back with a new album, Gimme Some, releasing on March 29th, 2011. The first single, Second Chance, marks the band’s return to pure pop rock which is what many have been yearning to hear from them for a few albums now. Previous albums have been darker and/or more experimental but it’s expected that this newest effort will not disappoint. It’s a pleasure to hear the band straight rocking out.
Download: Peter, Bjorn, and John - Second Chance
Stranger Day’s newest track has me wanting more. Word on the street is that he has a full album ready for our earholes and this is just a taste of what’s to come. Moonwalking on the Sun (Produced by EMYND) features a freshened-up version of The Clash’s London Calling beat which makes for an awesome listen.
Download (via Mediafire): Stranger Day - Moonwalking on the Sun (Produced by EMYND)
