The beer goes in a slightly different tank than the other winter efforts that we have received. The beer has hints of grain and malt alongside a slight hop bite. The complexity of the beer yields a different variety of flavors each time an individual has a sip. The sweetness that ties together these two elements keeps individuals wanting more; taken together, the Lakemaid Frosty Winter Lager is a beer that provides something for everyone. Make sure to visit those states in which it is distributed (Michigan, Illinois, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Nebraska, and the Dakotas) to purchase a six or twelve-pack of the lager before it is retired for the season.
Visit the Lakemaid website for more information about their efforts and their store, which has a tremendous amount of branded merchandise for individuals to purchase. The Lakemaid Frosty Winter Lager is a fulfilling effort that will keep individuals warm through the coldest of nights, containing a complexity that will require imbibers a number of bottles to truly figure out.
Rating: 8.2/10
Lakemaid Frosty Winter Lager / www.lakemaidbeer.com.
Tiësto’s “Red Lights” remixed by Fred Falke
Listen to the remix in its entirety here:
Buy “Red Lights” from iTunes:
Check out French house producer Fred Falke’s silky smooth and summery remix of Tiësto’s smash single, “Red Lights.”
“Red Lights” is the first single from Tiësto’s forthcoming artist album and has been remixed by the likes of Afrojack, twoloud, Fred Falke, Blame and D-Wayne.
The “Red Lights Remixes” bundle will be released February 21 to all DSPs and February 23rd to Beatport
For more info on Tiësto, please visit:
Paper Diamond Premiere Black Rose
Paper Diamond has been killing it so far this year. On top of his headling 30+ date Cold Crush Tour and announcing his debut Las Vegas monthly DJ residency starting March 26 at Surrender, the multigenre producer and instrumentalist premieres a brand-new original production, titled “Black Rose” today via Hypetrak. “Black Rose” was one of the songs premiered on Paper Diamond’s debut mix for “Diplo and Friends” this past Sunday, which also features unreleased productions and tracks from friends like Zed’s Dead, Two Fresh, and Antiserum. Diplo shouts out “The one and only Paper Diamond – this might be one of the most versatile guys I ever run into as far as production. He’s played all over the world coachella, lollapalooza, electric zoo, every festival in the world is not complete without booking Paper Diamond.”  Artwork Courtesy of Raccoon Nook “Black Rose” is among one of his recent releases that aired on BBC Radio 1′s “Diplo and Friends” mix last weekend. Kicking off the second hour with his sexy new edit of “Jasmine” by Jai Paul – which you can grab as a free download HERE – Alex B wraps up by giving a nod to the man himself with his latest “Revolution” remix released on Diplo’s Revolution Remix EP — out now on Mad Decent. |
PAPER DIAMOND’S COLD CRUSH TOUR: On this tour Paper Diamond will be experimenting with new gear by incorporating creative beatmaking with an acclaimed sound library on Maschine Studio into his live stage productions. During 2014, fans can expect to hear a plethora of new tunes, some featuring never-before-heard collaborations during his recent LA studio sessions with various writers, producers and singers. On his March LP release Paragon, Paper Diamond featured a wide array of talent including the adored pop indie singer Angela McCluskey, the widely embraced production duo Christian Rich, plus Cherub, Buku, Gavin Turke, J Fresh, and Protohype. His fans will certainly have a lot of new material to discover. The dynamics of Paper Diamond’s live performance makes every show a unqiue experience. Alex explains how he improvises each set live every night to give his fans a truly unique experience. “I’m using my iPad on stage to control two computers, one has Ableton to play the music, which then sends a MIDI signal to the second computer, where I can control all of the LEDs and live visuals on stage that will capture the nonstop energy of my set. So basically, I get to represent myself in not just a musical manner, but I get to provide an overall visual experience for my fans as well.” Supporting artists playing on tour such as LOUDPVCK, Branchez, Gent & Jawns, and Manic Focus, were all hand picked by Alex who takes note that they each share a similar philosophy. “We all love the same things, we like to play great music and have a great time, and I wanted to bring along good music from artists that I personally enjoy and respect.” UPCOMING TOUR DATES: 1/29 @ Ziggy’s, Winston Salem, NC 1/30 @ The Orange Peel, Asheville, NC 1/31 @ Georgia Theatre, Athens, GA 2/01 @ Terminal West, Atlanta, GA 2/05 @ Jefferson Theater, Charlottesville, VA 2/06 @ Theatre of Living Arts, Philadelphia, PA 2/07 @ Webster Hall, New York City, NY 2/08 @ Paradise Rock Club, Boston, MA 2/12 @ 9:30 Club, Washington, DC 2/13 @ Westcott Theater, Syracuse, NY 2/14 @ Higher Ground, Burlington, VT 2/15 @ Port City Music Hall, Portland, ME 2/16 @ Pearl Street, Northampton, MA 2/18 @ Rex Theater, Pittsburgh, PA 2/19 @ Newport Music Hall, Columbus, OH 2/20 @ Beachland Ballroom, Cleveland, OH 2/21 @ Magic Stick, Detroit, MI 2/22 @ The Intersection, Grand Rapids, MI 2/23 @ The Canopy Club, Urbana, IL, 2/26 @ Turner Hall Ballroom, Milwaukee, WI 2/27 @ Majestic Live, Madison, WI 2/28 @ Concord Music Hall, Chicago, IL 3/01 @ Mill City Nights, Minneapolis, MN 3/02 @ Slowdown, Omaha, NE 3/05 @ Old Rock House, St. Louis, M 3/06 @ Granada Theater, Lawrence, KS 3/07 @ Cain’s Ballroom, Tulsa, OK 3/08 @ George’s Majestic, Fayetteville, AR 3/21 or 22 @ Buku Music + Art Project, New Orleans, LA 3/26 @ Surrender Las Vegas, NV |
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON PAPER DIAMOND: |
Tuesday, January 28, 2014
SCHOOLBOY Q Oxymoron Tour Dates
Are you ready for the Next Big Thing in hip-hop from South Central L.A.? Quincy Matthew Hanley, better known as ScHoolboy Q is set to hit the road for an extensive U.S. tour, starting March 1 in Providence, R.I., including appearances at SXSW in Austin, before heading over to Europe in May for shows in Netherlands, Germany, Belgium, France, Switzerland, Italy, Denmark, Sweden, Finland, Norway and Ireland. ScHoolboy Q will be joined by Isaiah Rashad and Vince Staples. A full itinerary is listed below.
All that activity surrounds the eagerly anticipated Feb. 25 release of his major label debut for his debut Top Dawg Entertainment/Interscope album, Oxymoron, 15 tracks that include guest appearances from label mate and fellow Black Hippy members Kendrick Lamar (“Collard Greens”) and Ab-Soul, Raekwon, Tyler the Creator and 2 Chainz. The new single, “Man Of The Year,” is currently available digitally, following up the release of “Collard Greens” last year.
ScHoolboy Q independently released a pair of mixtapes before putting out his first album, Setbacks, in 2011, on Top Dawg Entertainment, followed by Habits & Contradictions in 2012. After signing with Interscope, he began recording his major label debut.
Born on a military base in Germany, where his father was stationed in the Army, Hanley moved with his mom to Texas for several years before settling in California. He was a gangbanger for the 52 Hoover Crips, dealing Oxycontin before beginning to rap as a teenager. He began working with Top Dawg Entertainment in 2006, working with cohorts Kendrick Lamar, Jay Rock and Ab-Soul, forming the group Black Hippy.
ScHoolboy was named part of XXL Magazine’s 2013 Freshman Class, and performed last June at the BET Experience Music Festival with Kendrick Lamar, Snoop Dog and Miguel. He also performed “White Walls,” with Macklemore & Ryan Lewis on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, the sixth single from their hit album, The Heist. He debuted “Collard Greens” at the BET Hip-Hop Awards last October.
A complete list of ScHoolboy Q tour dates follows:
March 1: Providence, RI (Lupos)
March 2: Boston, MA (Wilbur)
March 3: Philadelphia, PA (The Troc)
March 4: New York (Best Buy Theatre)
March 5: Sayreville, NJ (Starland Ballroom)
March 6: New Haven, CT (Toads Place)
March 7: Washington, DC (Fillmore)
March 8: Columbus, OH (Newport Music Hall)
March 9: Cleveland, OH (House of Blues)
March 10: Cincinnati, OH (Bogarts)
March 12-15: Austin, TX (SXSW)
March 17: Miami, FL (Mekka)
March 18: Orlando, FL (Firestone Live)
March 19: St. Peterburg, FL (Jannus Live)
March 21: San Antonio, TX (White Rabbit)
March 22: New Orleans, LA (BUKU Festival)
March 23: Dallas, TX (Southside Music Hall)
March 24: Austin, TX (Scoot Inn)
March 25: Houston, TX (Warehouse Live)
March 27: Denver. CO (Ogden)
March 28: Albuquerque, NM (Sunshine Theatre)
March 29: El Paso, TX (Tricky Falls)
March 30: Phoenix, AZ (Celebrity Theatre)
March 31: Tucson, AZ (Rialto Theatre)
April 2: Santa Ana, CA (Observatory)
April 3: Ventura, CA (Ventura Theatre)
April 4: Las Vegas, NV (Hard Rock Live)
April 5: San Diego, CA (House of Blues)
April 6: Los Angeles, CA (Club Nokia)
April 7: Santa Cruz, CA (Catalyst)
April 8: Reno, NV (Knitting Factory)
April 9: Sacramento, CA (Ace of Spades)
April 10: San Francisco, CA (Regency)
April 11: Chico, CA (Senator Theatre)
April 13: Portland, OR (Crystal Ballroom)
April 14: Seattle, WA (Showbox Market)
April 17: Milwaukee, WI (The Rave)
April 18: Detroit, MI (St. Andrews)
April 19: Grand Rapids, MI (Orbit Room)
April 20: Minneapolis, MN (Mill City Nights)
April 22: Chicago, IL (Metro)
April 23: Lawrence, KS (Liberty Hall)
April 25: Kingston, GA (Counterpoint Music Festival)
April 26: Charlotte, NC (Amos)
April 17: Baltimore, MD (Soundstage)
Europe
May 1: Amsterdam, Netherlands (Melkweg)
May 3: Frankfurt, Germany (Gibson)
May 4: Antwerp, Belgium (Trix)
May 6: Paris, France (Bataclan)
May 7: Strasboug, France (Laiterie)
May 8: Stuttgart, Germany (LKA)
May 9: Zurich, Switzerland (Komplex 457)
May 10: Lausanne, Switzerland (Les Docks)
May 11: Milan, Italy (Tunnel)
May 12: Lyon, France (Transbordeur)
May 13: Munich, Germany (Fierwerk)
May 15: Berlin, Germany (C-Club)
May 16: Cologne, Germany (Essigfabrik)
May 17: Hamburg, Germany (Ubel & Gefahrlich)
May 18: Copenhagen, Denmark (Vega)
May 20: Arhus, Denmark (Train)
May 21: Maimo, Sweden (KB)
May 22: Stockholm, Sweden (Debaser Strand)
May 23: Gothenburg, Sweden (Pustervik)
May 24: Oslo, Norway (Rockefeller)
May 25: Helsinki, Finland (Nosturi)
May 27: Dublin, Ireland (Vicar Street)
May 28: Glasgow, UK (Arches)
May 30: London, UK (Koko)
May 31: Birmingham, UK (Institute Library)
June 1: Manchester, UK (Academy 2)
** Isaiah Rashad & Vince Staples to support domestic dates
** Isaiah Rashad to support European dates
TROLLFEST to Release Kaptein Kaos April 8th
Their 2012 release Brumlebassen saw TROLLFEST tour the USA with Ensiferum and Tyr. Their latest album Kaptein Kaos is set in a fantasy world of trolls, where an inventor who creates a time machine goes on an expedition across time. Musically, TROLLFEST‘s Kaptein Kaos has given way to juicy rock grooves, rich melody lines, tango rhythms and more of their world music influence.
Kaptein Kaoz will be released April 8th in North America via Napalm Records / Noise Art. Today the artwork and track listing have been revealed.
Kaptein Kaoz Track Listing:
1. Trolltramp
2. Kaptein Kaos
3. Vulkan
4. Ave Maria
5. Filzlaus Verkündiger
6. Die Grosse Echsen
7. Seduction suit no.21
8. Solskinnsmedisin
9. Troll Gegen Mann
10. Sagn Om Stein
11. Renkespill
12. Kinesisk Alkymi
13. Døden banker på
Bonus DVD:
The making of Kaptein Kaos
Heidenfest tour video
Paganfest tour video
For More Info Visit:
www.facebook.com/trollfestofficial
Sleepy Sun Announces North American Tour
2/13: Santa Cruz, CA @ Catalyst Atrium
2/15: Pioneertown, CA @ Pappy & Harriets Place
2/16: Phoenix, AZ @ Rhythm Room
2/18: Dallas, TX @ Three Links
2/19: Houston, TX @ Fitzgeralds Downstairs
2/20: San Antonio, TX @ Limelight
2/21: Austin, TX @ Red 7 (Inside)
2/22: Baton Rouge, LA @ Spanish Moon
2/24: Atlanta, GA @ The Basement
2/25: Birmingham, AL @ Bottle Tree
2/26: Nashville, TN @ The End
2/27: Asheville, NC @ One Stop Deli & Bar
2/28: Columbus, OH @ Rumba Cafe
3/1: Cincinnati, OH @ MOTR Pub
3/2: Pittsburgh, PA @ Smiling Moose
3/3: Philadelphia, PA @ Johnny Brenda’s
3/4: Brooklyn, NY @ Knitting Factory
3/6: Montreal, QC @ Divan Orange
3/7: Toronto, ON @ Horseshoe Tavern
3/8: Windsor, ON @ Phog Lounge
3/10: Chicago, IL @ Schubas Tavern
3/11: Saint Paul, MN @ Turf Club
3/12: Fargo, ND @ Aquarium
3/13: Winnipeg, MB @ Union Sound Hall
3/14: Regina, SK @ O’Hanlons
3/15: Saskatoon, SK @ Vangelis Tavern
3/16: Edmonton, AB @ New Wunderbar Hofbrauhaus
3/18: Calgary, AB @ Broken City
3/19: Kelowna, BC @ Habitat
3/20: Vancouver, BC @ The Biltmore Caberet
3/21: Whistler, BC @ Garibaldi Lift Company
3/22: Victoria, BC @ Lucky Bar
3/24: Seattle, WA @ Sunset Tavern
3/25: Portland, OR @ Holocene
3/27: San Francisco, CA @ The Chapel
3/28: Los Angeles, CA @ Think Tank Gallery (Psycho De Mayo Pre Party)
Maui Tears Track Listing:
1. The Lane
2. Words
3. Everywhere Waltz
4. Outside
5. 11:32
6. Theilbar
7. Slowdown
8. Galaxy Punk
9. Maui Tears
Monday, January 27, 2014
Nai Harvest Premier Hold Open My Head Video
Nai Harvest’s new video for the title track off their upcoming Hold Open My Head EP is premiering on Stereogum. Check out here:www.stereogum.com/1644781/nai-harvest-hold-open-my-head-video-stereogum-premiere/video.
The much –anticipated forthcoming EP from UK duo Nai Harvest will be released on March 4th in the US via Topshelf Records and March 3rd in the UK via Dog Knights Records.
Considerably less shout-y and more indie rock-leaning than their debut full-length ‘Whatever’– Hold Open My Head demonstrates a more calm and self-assured side to a band growing in stature and reputation on record and live.
Following a packed out UK tour with Gnarwolves in December 2013, the two-piece have been confirmed for Bristol’s Hit The Deck festival as well as support slots for Real Friends, You Blew It! and Modern Baseball’s UK tour in May.
Nai Harvest – ‘Hold Open My Head’ Tracklist:
1.Rush
2.Hold Open My Head
3.Pastel
4.I Don’t Even Know
www.facebook.com/naiharvestemo
Pre-order at:
www.topshelfrecords.com or www.dogknightsproductions.com
Hundred Yard Dash Fresh Hop Ale
The hop flavor is very light on the palette, while the slight sweetness of the beer plays nicely. The Hundred Yard Ale is something that provides hints of spring even as the temperatures stay cold. While the beer is fueled through a decent dollop of alcohol (6.8%), the overall tenor of the beer is such that one will be able to polish off a Hundred Yard Dash easily. The beer yields different twists and turns with each subsequent sip, ensuring that imbibers will continually find something new that they can appreciate. I feel that the IPA style has been a little wonky with companies attempting to out-bitter their beers; Brau Brothers have decided to go in a bold new direction. As a result, they craft a beer in Hundred Yard Dash that is eminently drinkable and memorable. The crispness of the Hundred Yard Dash will invite in fans of bubblier efforts, while the hop backbone will get those beer aficiandos (of any sort) frothy.
Visit the Brau Brothers website for more information about the Hundred Yard Dash as well as their other offerings. If you find yourself in the Lucan, MN area (SW corner of the state), make sure to take a sojourn to their brewery.
Rating: 8.3/10
Hundred Yard Dash Fresh Hop Ale / Brau Brothers Brewing Company / 6.8% ABV / www.braubeer.com
Dylan Connor Blood Like Fire (Songs For Syria) CD Review
Blood Like Fire is a track that links together 90s indie and alternative rock with a more classic singer-songwriter style. The production of this introductory effort will immediately draw listeners in, while the smart instrumental arrangements will increase the track’s (and by extension, the album’s) replay value. Feza Feza is bolstered through the presence of Omnia Hegazy as a backing force during the song’s chorus; the track takes a considerably different tack from the rest of the efforts on this EP due to her and Zafer Tawil’s (percussion, strings, oud) contributions to the track. By keeping things fresh, this track is able to move into something ethereal and absolutely effective. The back and forth between the two sets of vocals creates considerable complexity, while the two together have an alluring interplay with the guitars that represent the track’s backdrop. Weary World demarcates the divide between the first and final halves of the EP, and allows listeners to be provided with an epic composition. During this nearly six-minute effort, Connor is able to create something that will stick with listeners long after the disc ceases.
Not a Civil War will appease fans of XTC, Billy Bragg, and even Tom Petty. The sedate composition exists in the current moment but is built off a much earlier musical tradition. By taking on this disparate styles, Connor is able to inspire a wider swath of fans to boldly forge on to the end of Blood Like Fire. Blood Like Fire concludes with Syria the Healer. Syria the Healer builds off a Warren Zevon meets Phil Ochs approach, tying together pointed political commentary with a catchy composition – the perfect ending to a solid EP.
Make sure to visit Connor’s CDBaby for the ability to listen to samples of the cuts from Blood Like Fire and his previous recordings.
Top Tracks: Blood Like Fire, Not a Civil War, Syria the Healer
Rating: 8.7/10
Dylan Connor Blood Like Fire (Songs For Syria) CD Review / 2014 Self / 5 Tracks / dylanconnor.com/
Laidback Luke & Project 46 Collide (Ft. Collin McLoughlin) Out Now
2014 is already shaping up to be a good year for Mixmash Records. The first release for the label head honcho Laidback Luke comes in the form of a massive collaboration with Project 46 and Collin McLoughlin, “Collide.” Excitement had been building as rumors circulated for months about the potential collaboration. We can now confirm the rumors are true, so get yourself ready for what will be one of the biggest tracks of the year; “Collide.” There is no denying that Dutch master Laidback Luke has earned his place amongst dance music royalty. His dynamic fusion of hyper-drive-house-step & ghetto-jack-trance-bass is the sound of now and has been for the past decade – and there is no sign of it slowing down! Blasting your speakers with blockbuster beats, stirring things up with his hybrid house styles and his unlimited energy, brightly results in both stunning live sets and ongoing anticipated studio hits. The Dutch heavy weight house master is loved all over the globe. Making an undeniable impact on the progressive house scene in 2013, Project 46‘s consistent releases and hectic touring schedule earned the pair a well deserved place on DJ Mag‘s Top 100 DJ’s for the second year running, moving up a massive 30 places! Their refreshing mixes of originals, remixes, bootlegs, and mashups have kept fans engaged and drawn massive support from followers across the globe. Collin McLoughlin is a singer and producer, living in New York. He’s had a hugely successful 2013, achieving over 15 million hits on his YouTube Channel, and appearing on season 3 of “The Voice.” |
Laidback Luke on Facebook Laidback Luke on Twitter Laidback Luke on Soundcloud Laidback Luke on YouTube |
TRUCKFIGHTERS Premiere New Song Convention
Zedd Releases Find You Single
Todya, Zedd releases his single for Find you. The track features Matthew Koma and Miriam Bryant
www.youtube.com/watch?v=26epiR9dpBg
Sunday, January 26, 2014
Imagine Dragons Radioactive Remix with Kendrick Lamar
Imagine Dragons have had a great 2013, with their “Radioactive” crossing over from the rock to the EDM charts. As 2014 begins, the band is looking to take over the rap charts, releasing a remix of Radioactive with TDE’s Kendrick Lamar. Kendrick’s flow during this version provides a considerably different context than the original. If you are a fan of Good Kid, mAAD City or any of Lamar’s tracks that have followed that, check out the Radioactive Remix today – www.youtube.com/watch?v=09OmjOPXE7o
Friday, January 24, 2014
Coldstream Naturals Product Review
A number of companies have jumped on the anti-GMO (genetically modified organism) trains as of late. The logic behind these products is solid – there has not been enough in the way of research done to show that GMO-based products are safe. There have been studies that have shown greater incidences of cancer among rats for those that have been fed GMO products, but the methodology utilized but a number of the more common citations is a little on the shaky side.
Coldstream Naturals ( http://coldstreamnaturals.com/ ) is a company that prominently emblazons their products with organic and GMO-free tags. They produce two products – a Tooth Cream and a Mouthwash. The products are priced at $11.95 for the mouthwash and $7.95. The price point is on the high side for the products that they provide.
Even after a minute or so of agitating the mouthwash, there is little impact on one’s breath after eating garlic, onions, or other strongly-flavored foods. The flavor profile (Coldstream offers a peppermint and a cinnamon effort) is much too meek to mask and otherwise keep offending odors from returning.
The tooth cream (toothpaste) has the same two flavors and posits that the included Citrozine will “promote strong, healthy teeth, and gums”. The low amount of abrasives in the tooth cream make the efficacy of the tooth cream pale in comparison to the mechanical element of brushing one’s teeth. While the act of brushing one’s teeth will keep overall tooth health high, one will need to keep an eye out for gingivitis.
Keep an eye out for the company and their proprietary Citrozine compound. There is little information available about Citrozine online beyond the briefest of descriptions ( http://coldstreamnaturals.com/science/what-is-citrozine/ ). When it comes to the freshness of breath or the overall health of one’s teeth, find those efforts that contain compounds that are supported by scholarly literature to have some effect on breath and tooth health.
Wednesday, January 22, 2014
Cold Snap Beer Review
Cold Snap is a very hazy and bubbly effort from Samuel Adams that looks to showcase the change from the heavier and darker releases to the more fruit and sweeter efforts of the spring season. The beer separates itself from other white ales on the market as it has a sweeter, almost caramel-like aspect to the flavor. This provides additional complexity to what is already a heady style to approach. The 5.3% ABV of Cold Snap is perfect, providing imbibers with just enough of a bite to keep things interesting from beginning to end. Eminently drinkable, there is no good reason why an individual shouldn’t polish off a few bottles of the Cold Snap if they are fans of the white ale style. There is richness and a vitality to this release that make this more than 1 of 6; the experience that one has when drinking a Cold Snap is simply incomparable to anything else that is on the market. As the beer continues to warm up, the specific tenor of the beer changes – no two quaffs are exactly the same. There is a more balanced blend of malt and hops at the half-way mark as the beer continues to shift and change. When completing the last swig of Cold Snap, one will be at a considerably different places from when they started.
Visit the Samuel Adams website for exhaustive information about their variety of beers (both seasonal and year-around), their promotions, and the ability to sign up for their newsletter. Keep visiting out beer review section for more coverage of Samuel Adams’ efforts and purchase Cold Snap from any well-stocked beer store.
Rating: 8.8/10
Cold Snap / 5.3% ABV / Samuel Adams / www.samueladams.com/ / www.samueladams.com/craft-beers/cold-snap
Namaste Beer Review
Namaste is a beer that a wide swath of imbibers can appreciate. The beer pours with the smallest amount of whitish head and a light, hazy color. The beer has a nose that yields hints of bananas, fruits, and a slight bit of an alcohol nose. As the beer continues to warm up, the sweeter elements of Namaste come into view. This means that the wit beer style starts to shine – the slight bits of citrus and banana that can be discerned is provided additional highlighting with a malt and barley backdrop. Slight amounts of pepper, lemon zest, and more tart elements provide additional nuance to the beer. The effervescence of this beer keeps everything light and airy, while the alcohol percentage (4.8%) make this into a beer that can start off a night perfectly. The beer concludes with a small amount of hops, an amount that is just enough to cleanse one’s palette and prepare it for the next quaff. Visit the Dogfish Head website for more information about the brewery, their efforts, and pick up a bottle or a glass of Namaste from any bar which you can reliably procure Dogfish Head efforts.
Rating: 8.9/10
Namaste / 4.8% ABC / Dogfish Head / www.dogfish.com/ / www.dogfish.com/brews-spirits/the-brews/occassional-rarities/namaste.htm
Andy Ferrell I Was Born EP
On the Road blends the sixties singer-songwriter genre with hints of classic country. Ferrell’s vocals are rich and road-wizened, while the arrangements similarly show a maturity that belies his age. Ferrell’s I Was Born EP shines based off the equal focus given to the vocal and instrumental side of things, while The Ring represents another track that feels destined for play on radio rotation. The track is built off of Ferrell’s narration and is further polished through a home-spun unity of guitar and strings. While the vocals drop, I feel that the string solo is as rich and as vibrant as Ferrell’s articulations.
Spare Change changes things up; the track feels much more comfortable in a sixties Bob Dylan or nineties alt-country (Sean Lennon, Wilco) style. The softly-spoken instrumentation provides a sharper point to Ferrell’s vocals, while still keeping the same close and warm feel that has been cultivated during the introductory tracks on the I Was Born EP. Honey Where You Been So Long speeds things up considerably, with a walking instrumentation that tests the constituent elements of Ferrell’s band. The late-disc placement of this effort shows that Ferrell can incorporate new twists and turns without batting an eye. I feel that this is a hopeful development, as it provides support to my belief that he can move to the full-album format and keep listeners on the edges of their seats throughout.
Visit Ferrell’s website for music and photo samples and the ability to sign up for the latest news. Here is hoping that Ferrell is able to cut a full-length album before the end of 2014.
Top Tracks: On the Road, Honey Where You Been So Long
Rating: 8.8/10
Andy Ferrell I Was Born EP / 2014 Self / 6 Tracks / www.andyferrellmusic.com / www.facebook.com/andyferrellmusic
Kris N. The Thankful Parade CD Review
Carillon Belles is a smartly-designed composition. During this effort, the arrangements are given ample time to create a backdrop upon with the haunting and ethereal vocals can shine. The vocals do double duty – not only do they tell listeners a story, they contribute to the oval music that issues from the speakers. Farewell Fifth Street immediately tugs at listeners’ heartstrings; the vocals showcase the sense of alienation that is present whenever one moves (whether it is out to college or to a different area due to circumstances / jobs). The two guitar parts work together to provide completeness to this track, as well as worming themselves deep into the psyche and the cordis of listeners.
Pacific Blue has an absolutely juicy bass line that represents the backbone of the track, while the guitar and vocal response to this ropey arrangement provide additional layers to this dense track. The cherry on the top of this cut has to the synth line, which will appease fans of The Red Hot Valentines and +44. The track is a rocking penultimate effort on The Thankful Parade, providing listeners with the energy that they need to continue rocking through the rest of the album. Tallboys to Dayton is a perfect ending to The Thankful Parade; the raw emotionality is present in the instrumentation as much as it can be found through the vocals. A layer of fuzz ties all the elements together to hearken back to punk and emotive rock of the nineties.
Visit Kris N.’s Facebook for their latest shows and updates about the band; visit the album’s page on Poptek Records for a few samples of what one can expect.
Top Tracks: Carillon Belles, Farewell Fifth St.
Rating: 9.0/10
Kris N. The Thankful Parade CD Review / 2014 Poptek Records / 10 Tracks / www.facebook.com/krisnpoptek / poptek.com/thethankfulparade.html
Julian & The Upside Sound S/T CD Review
The complexity that Julian & The Upside Sound craft on efforts like Out of Time is astounding; listeners can honestly sit down and unravel all the twists and turns on the track over the course of repeat plays. This complexity does not impact the allure of the band – fans can easily turn on this CD and be taken away by the compositions that are presented. Silverlining Waltz slows down things down, providing fans with a brilliant section in which the band continues to build up speed. The interplay between the guitars and strings keeps things heady, while the raw emotion that is captured here make this into a favorite of mine on Julian & The Upside Sound. The guitar that initiates Sun Hats immediately draws listeners in, while the vocals that are included add another facet to the detailed façade that is the band. It is particularly during Sun Hats that the album’s production truly shines – each part of Julian & The Upside Sound is able to be picked out, while still contributing to a unique and inimitable sound for the album.
Something Seven changes things up again; the vocal heavy opening strains of the track shakes things up to great effect. While the track requires additional listens to properly understand, I feel that the band succeeds in creating a possible alternative style for subsequent recordings. The band is able to utilize their newest addition to great effect, making Julian & The Upside Sound a must-have album. If you are in Northern California, visit Julian & The Upside Sound’s CD release parties in Willits and Ukiah on January 25th and the 26th.
Top Tracks: Out of Time, Mimi’s Waltz On Your Sleeve
Rating: 8.4/10
Julian & The Upside Sound S/T CD Review / 2014 Self / 10 Tracks / www.facebook.com/juliantrio / www.youtube.com/user/TheJulianTrioPlus1
DUCK SAUCE TEASE DEBUT ALBUM WITH "DUCK DROPPINGS" EP
Having navigated the hip hop and electronic music scenes for over 15 years, A-Trak has established himself as a trusted collaborator to some of their most sought-after figures. This year may prove to see his greatest triumphs yet with a hat trick of projects that only he could pull off, all coming out by the Spring. The Fool’s Gold head honcho is presenting a full-fleged Cam’ron & A-Trak EP, announcing a new production supergroup with Atlanta beatsmith Lex Luger, and unleashing the long awaited Duck Sauce LP alongside Armand Van Helden.
The throne for New York rap hasn’t been claimed since Cam’ron’s Dipset crew rolled out the pink Range 10 years ago, and Cam clearly hasn’t lost a step. The upcoming Federal Reserve EP is a welcome return to form for Killa, facilitated by A-Trak’s anthemic production. With the help of executive producer Damon Dash (yes, you’ve read right), the EP also reunites Cam with with fellow Diplomats Jim Jones and Juelz Santana.
As if this wasn’t enough, A-Trak unearthed the elusive architect of rap’s — and trap’s — 808-heavy sound, and formed the Low Pros project with Lex Luger, known for his speaker-shattering production for Waka Flocka Flame, Juicy J and Rick Ross. Expect guest spots from the likes of Young Thug, Travi$ Scott and Juvenile on here.
And finally, after delivering one of 2013′s most critically acclaimed BBC Essential Mix and primed for a memorable slot at this year’s Coachella festival, Duck Sauce is ready for its baby to hatch.
Following up the VMA-nominated video for first single “It’s You”, the album Quack will be released this Spring.
In the meantime, A-Trak and Armand decided to give away 4 tracks from their vault this week. Grab the free Duck Droppings
soundcloud.com/ducksaucenyc/sets/duck-droppings
And preview the first snippet of the Cam’ron & A-Trak EP:
www.foolsgoldrecs.com/2014/01/21/a-trak-x-camron/
Tacocat Crimson Wave
Yesterday evening, Rookie Magazine premiered “Crimson Wave,” the second mp3 from NVM, the upcoming full-length by Seattle pop-punk faves Tacocat. BUST Magazine has already praised NVM as a record that’s “full of hilarious jokes, ferocious tambourines, and pop hooks galore” which will have you “struggling to sing along, due to your inability to stifle LOLs.” They single out “Crimson Wave” as a “clever surf-rock ode to dealing with periods.” Stream or download the track at the link above. Tacocat are currently plotting a nationwide tour, including a Valentine’s Day album release bonanza and shows at SXSW 2014. NVM is out on February 25th.
About the record:
Like a fluorescent-lit snack-aisle oasis in some desolate interstate road stop, brimming with Skittles and limited-edition Sno Balls, Tacocat’s Easter-egg-hued pop-punk-pop is bubblegum-sticky with hooks, bound to brighten up the most drab stretch of bummer backroad.
The band’s four-person, seven-layer-burrito came together organically: Lelah Maupin (drums) and Eric Randall (guitar) met in their native Longview, WA—two hours south of Seattle, the very town that Green Day named their breakout debut single after. Lelah’s family room was wallpapered with framed Magic Eye posters, hence “Stereogram,” the cross-eyed love letter to that bizarre ‘90s optical fad. She met lanky Eric while both worked at Safeway, wearing the chain’s distinctive navy aprons before breaking north to Seattle. Eric’s band The Trashies practiced and played in the basement of the 24/7 House in the Central District, where Long Beach, CA native Bree McKenna (bass) was living, amongst the dust, boxes, and spiders. Lelah met Butte, MT native Emily Nokes (voice, tambourine) in one excruciatingly early/boring graphic design class, slipping her a doodled-upon note; she soon noticed Emily’s big voice while she sang along with R. Kelly on the radio. Emily and Bree hit it off one sloshy night at the Comet. Eric impressed Emily with his reenactments of scenes from Anaconda. Sometime around 2007, via countless raucous house party shows, the legend of Tacocat was born.
The foursome would quickly make a name for themselves with their simply energizing power pop, drawing on classic Northwest energy with an uncommonly upbeat, surfy swag that could only come from gray skies and hydroponic sunshine. Their sly and unabashed ‘90s revivalism has, in the past, found the band pondering Evan Dando and Waterworld—and Bree herself explains finding about riot grrrl via Napster and Julia Stiles in 10 Things I Hate About You. They’ve described themselves variously as “Feminist sci-fi” and “Equal parts Kurt and Courtney”; oh well, whatever…NVM