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10 Artists to Watch at SXSW 2010

Mon, 8 Mar 2010 00:00:00 EST

Surfer Blood - In 2009, Surfer Blood was the band with that one really catchy song ("Swim") and yet another beach-themed name; this year, they've already released a well-received debut album, Astro Coast, and started headlining sold-out shows. They will be bringing their sunny, hook-filled Floridian pop to approximately a billion shows at SXSW this year.

Local Natives - Another band with a hot 2010 album and a ridiculous number of SXSW shows planned, L.A.'s Local Natives play layered, well-harmonized, vaguely rustic pop that recalls Grizzly Bear.

Freelance Whales - If you missed Freelance Whales' much-blogged-about recent performance on a Brooklyn subway platform, you'll have plenty of chances to hear their endearing orchestral pop in Austin.

Washed Out - Even if you're totally burned out on whatever-fi whatever-core by now, it's worth checking out Ernest Green's fuzzy, evocative electronic pop.

Twin Atlantic - Fans of Glasvegas, Frightened Rabbit, The Twilight Sad, and We Were Promised Jetpacks: meet your next favorite angsty Scottish rock band, Twin Atlantic. You can never have too many soaring yet gritty choruses sung in an irresistible Scottish accent, right?

Slow Club - This adorable boy-girl folk-pop duo from the UK writes songs that are sometimes mellow and sometimes rollicking, but always sweet, honest, and full of pretty harmonies and hooks.

Those Darlins - These three Tennessee women know how to tear up a stage with their energetic blend of country and garage rock.

MNDR - Amanda Warner has earned a reputation as an electronics whiz-kid, but her huge electro-pop anthems are far from nerdy. All the free alcohol flowing at SXSW will likely help facilitate the epic dance parties her songs seem designed for.

Unicorn Kid - Speaking of dance parties, keep an out eye for Unicorn Kid, the Scottish 18-year-old electronic artist known for sporting a lion hat when he plays. His caffeinated 8-bit/chiptune pop is insanely addictive.

Grass Widow - The SF ladies in Grass Widow play lo-fi surf-garage-punk with better harmonies, more hooks, and less bored posturing than a lot of other bands in this genre.

Arcade Fire announce Ireland gig

Sun, 7 Mar 2010 00:00:00 EST

If you're dying to see Arcade Fire, it's time to purchase your tickets to Ireland for the Oxegen Festival July 8-11. Montreal band Arcade Fire has announced their first proper concert in two years, their last show being an appearance at Barack Obama's inauguration in January '09.

The band is planning to release their third studio album in May, a follow up to the super-fantastic Neon Bible, which was released in 2007. The Oxegen Festival will also feature Eminem, Muse, Jay-Z, Vampire Weekend, Black Eyed Peas, Broken Social Scene, Kasabian and Hot Chip.

Sparklehorse's Mark Linkous dead

Sat, 6 Mar 2010 00:00:00 EST

Singer/songwriter Mark Linkous, 47, took his own life this weekend. Linkous, known for his critically-acclaimed work with Sparklehorse, shot himself in the heart outside of a friend's house in Nashville, TN.

The family released a statement: "It is with great sadness that we share the news that our dear friend and family member, Mark Linkous, took his own life today,” reads a statement from his family. “We are thankful for his time with us and will hold him forever in our hearts. May his journey be peaceful, happy and free. There’s a heaven and there’s a star for you."

Linkous had attempted to kill himself before back in 1996, when he actually stopped his heart for two minutes after consuming a combination of Valium and antidepressants. He ended up crippling himself, which took seven surgeries to fix his damaged legs. This was while the band was touring with Radiohead, who wrote some really nice things in tribute of Linkous.

Foo Fighters ready to hit studio

Fri, 5 Mar 2010 00:00:00 EST

Dave Grohl has announced that the Foo Fighters are back and ready to record their seventh studio album. While the boys have been busy, Grohl especially with supergroup Them Crooked Vultures, they have already begun writing for the new album.

Grohl, frontman of the Foo Fighters, wrote on his website: "Foo Fighters have just started writing and we're going to start recording in September so life is full of music."

Exclusive Video with Veil Veil Vanish

Fri, 5 Mar 2010 00:00:00 EST

One of the more promising Bay Area rock bands, Veil Veil Vanish, just released their debut album, "Change In the Neon Light" and we got the chance to interview them. A video with Veil Veil Vanish (how's that for alliteration?) The album is a smoldering mix of electronic sounds and Gothic and new wave tracks. It's a modern throwback to the 80s.

The band played an album release party at 330 Ritch on March 4th and we sat down with them just before their performance. Watch the video to get the scoop on everything from VVV's writing process and new music to a US tour and the struggle with having to be compared to The Cure. (Isn't life tough?)

You can download the two tracks heard in the video for free from a recent LA Weekly article here.

My Chemical Romance drummer calls it quits

Thu, 4 Mar 2010 00:00:00 EST

My Chemical Romance's drummer Bob Bryar is no longer behind the kit. The band posted the following statement written by guitarist Frank Iero on their website last week: "We wanted this news to come from us and not some bullshit gossip site. As of four weeks ago, My Chemical Romance and Bob Bryar parted ways. This was a painful decision for all of us to make and was not taken lightly." We interviewed Bryar a few years ago.

We're surprised that the gossip sites didn't pick up on it earlier, considering everything went down a month ago. In the meantime, the rest of the band is going back to the studio to write and record more, pushing their spring release to possibly a fall 2010 release.

Stream The Morning Benders Latest for Free

Tue, 2 Mar 2010 00:00:00 EST

Step aside street corner pill-pushers, The Morning Benders are on to your game. The Berkeley-based band are letting you stream their album, Big Echo for FREE this week. That means you get one whole week to listen and get hooked before it officially goes on sale March 9th. A typical Scarface move. But based on our complete addiction to the first two tracks released months ago ("Excuses" and "Promises") it works. Give it away for free and get them hooked for life. Intervention anyone? Head over there now: Big Echo.

New Releases Tuesday, March 2

Tue, 2 Mar 2010 00:00:00 EST

You might still remember what it's like to look forward to Tuesdays as the Official Day of the Week when new albums, EPs, 7 inches, et. al. were (and still are) released to the world. It's completely understandable if you don't - after all, the digital age of music has progressed so rapidly that the artists themselves can barely keep up, let alone the average audience of music consumers. Well, here at The Owl Mag we still have a soft spot for the possession of the physical music (CD, LP, and whatever happened to 8-track tapes?), which is why we continue to publish album reviews in addition to mp3s, videos, and other such one-trick media.

Benjy Davis Project Lost Souls Like Us
Peter Gabriel Scratch My Back
Groove Armada Black Light
Jamie Cullum The Pursuit
Jamie Foxx Body
* Little Boots Hands
Natalie Merchant Leave Your Sleep
Mumford & Sons Sigh No More
* Rogue Wave Permalight
Sharam Jay In My Blood
These New Puritans Hidden
* Josh Wolf ( of WHY?) Jet Lag

* The Owl recommends.

Noise Pop 2010 Photo Madness

Mon, 1 Mar 2010 00:00:00 EST
Maybe you're sick. Maybe you're on vacation. Maybe your bag isn't standing on a crowded dance-floor rubbing elbows with sweaty Bay Area-ites as they writhe like a bag full of meal worms. (Why not?) WELL, Don't fret. Our team has been actively snapping pics from some of the ridiculously fun Noise Pop 2010 shows. We've compiled them on our nifty OWL Flickr account. Head on over there and relive some of the more memorable moments. Like, Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros @ Bimbo's or the "Where's Waldo" of Noise Pop: John Vanderslice, who seemed to appear on stage with virtually everyone (The Dodos, Rogue Wave, etc).

GO HERE: OWL Flickr

Third Culture Records Taps Butterfly Bones

Thu, 25 Feb 2010 00:00:00 EST
We’re still tripping off of Butterfly Bones' looped beats, and heavy synths from our last Rumble just a few short weeks ago. Since then, this all-star quartet’s new song “<3” has been picked up by 3rd Culture Records for a split 7” with another one of our faves, Man/Miracle and their hot new track, “Other People.” Although the release date has yet to be announced, you can get your fix by sampling the tracks on their Myspace pages, or checking them out during Noise Pop this week. Butterfly Bones takes the stage with Wallpaper, The Limousines and Battlehooch at Slim’s on 2/26, and Man/Miracle supports Rogue Wave alongside Princeton and Two Sheds at Bottom of the Hill on 2/24.

Goldfrapp and Portishead team up for silent film score

Wed, 24 Feb 2010 00:00:00 EST
Someone's decided that Joan of Arc needs a little Goldfrapp in her life. And we're all over it. This idea is sheer brilliance: Portishead (pictured) and Goldfrapp are teaming up to score Theodor Dreyer's 1928 film The Passion of Joan of Arc. (We want more bands to do this. Modern music to silent films? Love, love, love.) The film will screen in Bristol, England on May 7 and will feature the a live performance of the score of Portishead's Adrian Lutley and Goldfrapp's Will Gregory. Here's hoping that the score will get a proper album release, because we can't see where this could go wrong.

PETA condemns Matthew Herbert project

Tue, 23 Feb 2010 00:00:00 EST
British avante-garde electronica artist Matthew Herbert is getting an ear full from PETA about his latest project. Herbert has been working to create a concept album titled One Pig, which will follow one pig's life from birth to butcher. He had faced roadblocks when he couldn't find a butcher to allow him to record the sounds a pig made at slaughter, and now People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals have released a statement condemning his work. Herbert took to his blog, seeming stumped about why PETA was against him shedding light on this subject: "I thought art and music was, in part, supposed to endorse the idea of challenge. Isn't part of its core purpose to struggle in public with the compromises and frictions of its time? The implication of this statement is that PETA would rather artists and musicians stood quietly to one side whilst such a poisonous and corrupt system cheerfully multiplied, unseen, unchallenged, unheard."

New Releases Tuesday, Feb. 23

Tue, 23 Feb 2010 00:00:00 EST
You might still remember what it's like to look forward to Tuesdays as the Official Day of the Week when new albums, EPs, 7 inches, et. al. were (and still are) released to the world. It's completely understandable if you don't - after all, the digital age of music has progressed so rapidly that the artists themselves can barely keep up, let alone the average audience of music consumers. Well, here at The Owl Mag we still have a soft spot for the possession of the physical music (CD, LP, and whatever happened to 8-track tapes?), which is why we continue to publish album reviews in addition to mp3s, videos, and other such one-trick media.

Alkaline Trio This Addiction
All Time High Friends In High Places
Dan Black ((un))
Michelle Branch Everything Comes And Goes
Brian Jonestown Massacre Who Killed Sgt. Pepper?
Cassidy Problem Is Back
Fan Death A Coin For The Well EP
David Byrne and Fatboy Slim Here Lies Love
DJ Khaled Victory
Fang Island Fang Island
Free Energy Stuck on Nothing
Jaga Jazzist One Armed Bandit
K-OS Yes!
Lifehouse Smoke & Mirrors
Daniel Merriweather Love & War
Holly Miranda The Magician's Private Library
Kidz In The Hall Land Of Make Believe
N.A.M.B. BMAN
The New Loud Can't Stop Not Knowing EP
* Joanna Newsom Have One On Me
Past Lives Tapestry Of Webs
Phantom Communique The Wolf And The Sheep
* Quasi American Gong
The Radio Dept. Clinging to a Scheme
The Rocket Summer Of Men And Angels
Shout Out Louds Work
The Streets Computers And Blues
Toro Y Moi Causers Of This
Butch Walker I Liked It Better When You Had No Heart
* Xiu Xiu Dear God, I Hate Myself
Rocky Votolato True Devotion

* The Owl recommends.

Jane's Addiction's Eric Avery quits the band

Mon, 22 Feb 2010 00:00:00 EST
With a tweet, Jane's Addiction bassist and founding member Eric Avery has quit. Early Monday morning Avery wrote, "thats it. with equal parts regret and relief, the janes addiction experiment is at an end."

Jane's Addiction will continue, with Guns N' Roses bassist Duff McKagan joining the group to write their next album. Avery had a tough time in Jane's Addiction, not participating in the band's first reunion and being the first to quit the group back in '91. Avery is expected to pursue a solo career.

The Owl's Noise Pop picks!

Mon, 22 Feb 2010 00:00:00 EST
Welcome to Noise Pop 2010, intimates and locals that we're not that close to yet! (Yet, I say.) We here at the Owl have been popping our vitamins and taking naps at our desks, preparing for the whirlwind week we're going to have catching shows all over the Bay for this year's Noise Pop.

So you've got a badge, an all-access pass to FUN and FANTASTIC-NESS, but you don't know what shows to make a priority this year. We get it: it's overwhelming to have all of those possibilities. So let's guide you, like our moms did when we were kids at Wal-Mart on those little child leashes.

We'll start with the obvious: get thee to the Fox Theater and kick off the fest the right way for Yoko Ono Plastic Ono Band (pictured) tonight, Feb. 23. The former Beatles' wife is a magnetic lady — John Lennon married her, guys. That's enough for us. They are only performing a handful of U.S. dates, and this show is one of those that you'll be buzzing about for years. Or at least weeks.

On Thursday make your way to the Palace of Fine Arts for local faves The Dodos as they do something totally cool and awesome. The band is performing with 26 members of the Magik*Magik Orchestra, and it will be The Dodos you know and love, but different.

At Slim's on Friday check out the Live 105 presented Wallpaper show with Butterfly Bones. The locals have gone electric! We guarantee you'll dance your ass off.

Speaking of dancing, how about checking out !!! at Mezzanine on Saturday? We may not be able to pronounce their name, but we'll be shouting it! And look at the local kids that are supporting: the adorable My First Earthquake (pictured) as well the hyper-disco soulful Sugar & Gold.

Finally, make some time for Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeroes at Bimbo's on Sunday. It's the official closing show, and it is sold out, but they're way too much fun to miss. So stand out on the sidewalk and beg them to let you in. Do it. (We still can't stop listening to "Home.")

A B & The Sea initiate popularity contest

Sat, 20 Feb 2010 00:00:00 EST
I do not like earning or doing stuff to get what I want, but I will for A B & The Sea. This prominent and emerging SF band has a brilliant marketing campaign that not only spreads the word through their fans, but rewards them with free music. You simply download the first free MP3 “Bone Dry” and then share the link with friends. The more friends you get, the more songs you get. Hurry, start whoring yourself out for those diddies.

The charming, Beach Boy-esque band (notice the George Clooney doppelganger front-man) is performing closing night of this year’s Noise Pop Festival, February 28th with Edward Sharpe & the Magnetic Zeros at Bimbo’s (sorry, sold out, of course).

More stuff about them here: A B & The Sea

Paul McCartney takes on solo stadium tour

Fri, 19 Feb 2010 00:00:00 EST
Sir Paul McCartney, former member of the Beatles and that guy from Wings, will be embarking on his first solo UK stadium tour. McCartney has performed occasionally over in the UK, but hasn't done a proper tour since 2003. Besides a slew of dates in Dublin, Glasgow and Cardiff, McCartney has also confirmed for the final headline spot of Isle of Wight Festival along with Jay-Z and the Strokes. Festival promoter John Giddings said, "Forty years after Jimi Hendrix performed 'Hey Joe' at Seaclose Park we've finally gotten to 'Hey Jude'. I can't wait."

Lil Wayne sentencing delayed again

Fri, 19 Feb 2010 00:00:00 EST
The whole Lil Wayne going to prison thing is getting a bit ridiculous. Eight root canals delayed his sentencing a few weeks ago, and now a fire at Manhattan's Criminal Courthouse delayed sentencing for gun charges yet again. Eight people sustained minor injuries, and Lil Wayne gets his third get-outta-jail pass. If we mortals had such luck!

The Who: Party of One?

Thu, 18 Feb 2010 00:00:00 EST
Pete Townshend may be quitting The Who? Only half of the classic rockers are still alive, and death was the only thing that came between Keith Moon and John Entwistle and the music. Now it seems old age — hearing loss, to be specific — is forcing Townshend's hand.

Townshend has been suffering a relapse of his tinnitus, which is a painful ringing in the ears caused by noise-induced hearing loss. Though the band has been performing more lately since their somewhat tepid showing at the 2010 Superbowl, Townshend says the band will have call it quits if he doesn't get better. He tells Rolling Stone: "If my hearing is going to be a problem, we're not delaying shows. We're finished. I can't really see any way around the issue."

Hole to play first U.S. show March 19

Thu, 18 Feb 2010 00:00:00 EST
When Courtney Love took the stage with Hole in London, the blogs lit up with how triumphant her return to the stage was. So triumphant, in fact, that Spin added the once-hot-mess to their 10 to Watch in 2010 SXSW set.

Love, who has had more than a couple major image makeovers, will take the stage March 19 at Stubb's BBQ in Austin, Texas. This will be her first show in the U.S. in more than a decade. Mercury/Island Def Jam will also release Nobody's Daughter April 27.

MGMT, My Morning Jacket = OMG Sasquatch

Wed, 17 Feb 2010 00:00:00 EST
Festies seem to be turning to new and interesting ways to announce their line-ups this year, save for one, Coachella. Bonnaroo took to their Myspace announcing an artist every 6 minutes, causing people to continuously update their Twitters at work. Sasquatch went the grassroots route holding a special event launch party at the Crocodile featuring performances by Surfer Blood, Atlas Sound and Fresh Espresso. Tickets for the event were free, so obviously the line was around the block and bursting at the seams. By far one of the most impressive for the 2010 festie season so far, Sasquatch is aiming for capacity this year at the Gorge. We’d be surprised if they didn’t achieve that goal with draws like Pavement and MGMT. So without further adieu, put your flannel on, and groom your moustaches for this epic indie-heavy line-up:

My Morning Jacket/Massive Attack/Pavement/Ween/Vampire Weekend/MGMT/Band of Horses/The National/LCD Soundsystem/Tegan & Sara/Broken Social Scene/Passion Pit/Deadmau5/She & Him/Public Enemy/Nada Surf/The New Pornographers/The Hold Steady/The xx/Dirty Projectors/OK Go/Drive By Truckers/Kid Cudi/The Long Winters/Minus the Bear/The Mountain Goats/Quasi/Camera Obscura/Fruit Bats/Brother Ali/Midlake/Dr. Dog/Caribou/Simian Mobile Disco/City & Colour/No Age/The Temper Trap/Vetiver/Miike Snow/Portugal. The Man/Telekinesis/Mayer Hawthorne/Why?/Girls/Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros/Wale/The Lonely Forest/Japandroids/Boys Noize/Yacht/Freelance Whales/Laura Marling/Patrick Watson/Past Lives/Cymbals Eat Guitars/The Low Anthem/The Very Best/Phantogram/Neon Indian/Nurses/The Tallest Man on Earth/Fresh Espresso/Mumford & Sons/Jets Overhead/tUnE-YarDs/Shabazz Palaces/Fool’s Gold/Morning Teleportation/Z-Trip/Dam-Funk/Hudson Mohawke/The Middle East/Local Natives/Avi Buffalo/Booka Shade/A-Trak/Yes Giantess/Craig Robinson/Rob Riggle/Garfunkel & Oates/Luke Burbank

Lady Gaga wins at BRIT Awards

Tue, 16 Feb 2010 00:00:00 EST
Lady Gaga swept the BRIT Awards with three wins this week, and also rocked the house with performances of her hits "Telephone" and "Dance In the Dark". She tearfully thanked the recently deceased designer Alexander McQueen, who she had collaborated on for some of her kookier costumes.

Other big winners of the evening included JLS and Florence and the Machine, who won British Breakthrough Act and British Album, respectively. Ex-Oasis singer Liam Gallagher snubbed his brother Noel, while the Spice Girls won best BRITS Performance of 30 Years.

OK Go to reveal new death-defying music vid March 1

Mon, 15 Feb 2010 00:00:00 EST
OK Go has really seen their future, and know that their demise is going to be from doing something completely crazy for a music video. The Chicago-based band will reveal their video for "This Too Shall Pass" on March 1 on their website. They filmed the video last week, after spending four months building a two-story Rube Goldberg machine with creative engineers from NASA and Jet Propulsion Laboratory. The band has even received a sponsorship from State Farm, so fans of OK Go can embed videos anywhere on the internet. Fans had gotten upset last month when due to contractual issues they couldn't embed older OK Go videos (treadmill vid, anyone)?

New Releases Tuesday, Feb. 16

Mon, 15 Feb 2010 00:00:00 EST
You might still remember what it's like to look forward to Tuesdays as the Official Day of the Week when new albums, EPs, 7 inches, et. al. were (and still are) released to the world. It's completely understandable if you don't - after all, the digital age of music has progressed so rapidly that the artists themselves can barely keep up, let alone the average audience of music consumers. Well, here at The Owl Mag we still have a soft spot for the possession of the physical music (CD, LP, and whatever happened to 8-track tapes?), which is why we continue to publish album reviews in addition to mp3s, videos, and other such one-trick media.

Dum Dum Girls Jail La La
Raheem DeVaughn The Love & War Masterpeace
Freeway and Jake One The Stimulus Package
* Field Music Field Music (Measure)
Peter Gabriel Scratch My Back
The Game The R.E.D. Album
Adam Green Minor Love
Jessica Harp A Woman Needs
Juliana Hatfield Peace And Love
Lusine Twilight
James Otto James Otto
Ike Reilly Hard Luck Stories
Robert Pollard We All Got Out of the Army
Story Of The Year Constant
Tindersticks Falling Down a Mountain
Usher Raymond v. Raymond
Wu-Tang Return of the & Friends

* The Owl recommends.

Mother of Killers frontman dies

Fri, 12 Feb 2010 00:00:00 EST
The mother of Killers frontman Brandon Flowers passed away late last week after a two-year battle with brain cancer. Jean Flowers was 64.

Recently The Killers had canceled a handful of shows in Australia and Asia, which fueled rumors that the band may be breaking up. The band responded on their website with the following statement: "The Killers had hoped that the Australian leg of their current tour would be completed as planned, but due to the severity of the illness of a close family member, they regretfully announce the cancellation of their Sydney Enmore show as well as their shows at Good Vibrations Festival Sydney and Good Vibrations Festival Perth this weekend." Their dates for Australia's Good Vibrations Festival this weekend are still posted to their website, and there is no word of any other cancellations.

The Knack's Doug Fieger dies

Thu, 11 Feb 2010 00:00:00 EST
Doug Fieger, frontman and founder of the new wave band the Knack, died of cancer Sunday. He was 58.

Fieger (second from the left) founded the Knack in 1978. The band found the most success with the single "My Sharona." During their career the Knack may have only released two albums before disbanding, but they always stayed in pop culture thanks to "My Sharona", which topped Billboard charts for six weeks.

Peaches denied 'Jesus'

Thu, 11 Feb 2010 00:00:00 EST
Electro-rapper Peaches' dream of a "stripped-down" version of Andrew Lloyd Webber's Jesus Christ Superstar has been shot down by German rights-holders. Peaches, who was set to open the one-woman show at Germany's Hebbel Theater, was given a no before she could even perform.

According to Peaches: "[They] claim that this project is of no interest to them due to its unconventional form. It's a shame that the authorities feel threatened by this fresh approach. I know a lot of people who really love the music and would appreciate this stripped-down solo performance."

SXSW Bay Area Takeover line up revealed

Wed, 10 Feb 2010 00:00:00 EST
SXSW, we haven't forgotten about you. We know you all were worried with us talking Bonnaroo and ATP, but we're maybe even more stoked that The Bay Bridged's annual Bay Area Takeover of SXSW showcase has confirmed a laundry list of some of the Bay's best talent, including rockers Leopold and his Fiction, country-tinged indie rockers Or, the Whale (pictured), and Geographer, to name a handful.

Here's the full line up for the March 18th free show at Austin's Beauty Bar:

Wallpaper.
Sleepy Sun
Ty Segall
Or, the Whale
Still Flyin’
Birds & Batteries
The Sandwitches
Young Prisms
Man/Miracle
Tempo No Tempo
Geographer
The Ferocious Few
Sonny and the Sunsets
Leopold and his Fiction
Hottub

NYC's ATP reveals filmmaker Jim Jarmusch as guest curator

Wed, 10 Feb 2010 00:00:00 EST
Lots of festival news this week, kids. NYC's third All Tomorrow's Parties Festival has revealed filmmaker Jim Jarmusch (Coffee and Cigarettes, Broken Flowers) as guest curator for it Sunday, Sept. 5 date of the Labor Day Weekend festival.

And the man has not hesitated on announcing his first choices to perform, including San Francisco's Girls (pictured): THE BRIAN JONESTOWN MASSACRE, RAEKWON, GIRLS, F*CKED UP, WOODEN SHJIPS, THE BLACK ANGELS and VIVIAN GIRLS. Adding his picks to who has already confirmed the fest — Iggy Pop and the Stooges, anyone? — we're looking at one hell of a way to end the summer festival season.

Phoenix, Casablancas announce tours

Tue, 9 Feb 2010 00:00:00 EST
Julian Casablancas (you may know him as the lead singer of the Strokes) is still pursuing that whole solo career thing, and has announced a tour in March and April. Sadly, the closest he's making it to San Fran is his Coachella date in April. But no worries, kids: the Strokes are indeed coming out with a new album in September, says Strokes drummer Fab Moretti. They'll also be performing their comeback gig in June at the UK's Isle of Wright festival.

And speaking of Coachella, Phoenix is dropping by as a part of their spring tour of the States, mainly middle America. If you missed them last month, you can catch the boys in Santa Cruz April 17 (the night before their Coachella stop).

New Releases Tuesday, Feb. 9

Tue, 9 Feb 2010 00:00:00 EST
You might still remember what it's like to look forward to Tuesdays as the Official Day of the Week when new albums, EPs, 7 inches, et. al. were (and still are) released to the world. It's completely understandable if you don't - after all, the digital age of music has progressed so rapidly that the artists themselves can barely keep up, let alone the average audience of music consumers. Well, here at The Owl Mag we still have a soft spot for the possession of the physical music (CD, LP, and whatever happened to 8-track tapes?), which is why we continue to publish album reviews in addition to mp3s, videos, and other such one-trick media.

ALO Man of the World
Canibus Melatonin Magik
DJ Rap Synthesis
Galactic Ya-Ka-May
HIM Screamworks: Love In Theory And Practice
* Hot Chip One Left Stand
Jaheim Another Round
Massive Attack Heligoland
Fear Factory Mechanize
Allison Moorer Crows
Pantha Du Prince Black Noise
Phantogram Eyelid Movies
Pierced Arrows Descending Shadows
Redman Reggie Noble 9 1/2
Sade Soldier Of Love
Scott-Heron, Gil Im New Here
Uffie MCs Can Kiss EP
* Watson Twins Talking To You, Talking To Me
Yeasayer Odd Blood
You Say Party! We Say Die! XXXX
Young Jeezy Thug Motivation 103

* The Owl recommends.

Bonnaroo 2010 lineup announced!

Mon, 8 Feb 2010 00:00:00 EST
The hotly anticipated Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival's 2010 lineup was revealed earlier this week!

Headliners Jay-Z, Stevie Wonder, Weezer and Flaming Lips will all be rocking Tennessee June 10 through 13, but let's get to the full, massive list, Owl-ers. Maybe it's time to pack a bag? They do have installment plans (read: layaway) again this year!

» Dave Matthews Band
» Kings of Leon
» Stevie Wonder
» Jay-Z
» Tenacious D
» Weezer
» The Flaming Lips with Stardeath and White Dwarfs perform Dark Side of the Moon
» The Dead Weather
» Damian Marley and Nas
» Phoenix
» Norah Jones
» Michael Franti & Spearhead
» John Fogerty
» Regina Spektor
» Jimmy Cliff
» LCD Soundsystem
» The Avett Brothers
» Thievery Corporation
» Rise Against
» Tori Amos
» The National
» Zac Brown Band
» Les Claypool
» John Prine
» The Black Keys
» Steve Martin & the Steep Canyon Rangers
» Jeff Beck
» Dropkick Murphys
» She & Him
» Against Me!
» The Disco Biscuits
» Daryl Hall and Chromeo
» Jamey Johnson
» Clutch
» Bassnectar
» Kid Cudi
» Baaba Maal
» Kris Kristofferson
» Medeski Martin & Wood
» The XX
» Gwar
» Dan Deacon Ensemble
» Tinariwen
» Wale
» Deadmau5
» The Melvins
» Gaslight Anthem
» Miike Snow
» Nitty Gritty Dirt Band
» Dr. Dog
» They Might Be Giants
» Punch Brothers
» Isis
» Blitzen Trapper
» Blues Traveler
» Miranda Lambert
» Calexico
» OK Go
» Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue
» Martin Sexton
» Lotus
» Baroness
» Dave Rawlings Machine
» Mayer Hawthorne and the County
» Japandroids
» Jay Electronica
» Edward Sharpe & the Magnetic Zeros
» Ingrid Michaelson
» The Dodos
» Manchester Orchestra
» The Temper Trap
» Cross Canadian Ragweed
» Carolina Chocolate Drops
» Tokyo Police Club
» The Entrance Band
» Local Natives
» Brandi Carlile
» Mumford & Sons
» Rebelution
» Diane Birch
» Monte Montgomery
» Julia Nunes
» The Postelles
» Lucero
» Here We Go Magic
» Hot Rize
» Neon Indian
» B.o.B
» Needtobreathe

John Mayer experiences fallout for racist slur

Mon, 8 Feb 2010 00:00:00 EST
John Mayer opened his big mouth to Playboy this week, and got a shitstorm of criticism for his use of the "n-word" and likening his penis to a white supremacist.

Mayer has profusely apologized via Twitter for his comments and also promised to "stop trying to be so raw in interviews." Who knows if he'll still be able to keep his "hood pass" after this. One thing's for sure, Playboy must be losing their minds at the added traffic to their site, especially with the latest financial drama.

Bright Eyes to release new songs in March

Fri, 5 Feb 2010 00:00:00 EST
Bright Eyes is back! The band is reissuing One Jug of Wine, Two Vessels, an EP they recorded with fellow Nebraskan band Neva Dinova back in 2004. Celebrating the re-release, members of Bright Eyes and Neva Dinova reunited to add four more tracks to the tracklist, which Conor Oberst (pictured) was able to squeeze in last fall when not working on his side projects the Mystic Valley Band and Monsters of Folk. Oberst takes lead on two of the tracks, while Neva Dinova's Jake Bellows sings on the other two. The album drops March 23 on Saddle Creek.

Lil Wayne heads to Riker's

Fri, 5 Feb 2010 00:00:00 EST
Lil Wayne is expected to begin a one-year jail sentence this morning following a hearing where he will plead guilty to gun possession charges.

Though he'll get a year, he can be out as soon as eight months from now for good behavior. Lil Wayne spent the past weekend partying for the Superbowl in Miami. On Monday night he spent the evening recording as much new music as he could before his jail time, and even recorded a farewell video for his fans (it's apparently a little X-rated at times and can be found on Ozone Mag.

Exclusive Video with Geographer

Thu, 4 Feb 2010 00:00:00 EST
San Francisco's own Geographer (of the Tricycle Records roster) met us in the heart of SOMA recently to talk plans revolving around the release of their second album, Animal Shapes. It features the infectious, video game-esque "Kites;" a song comprised of whimsical electronic blips and beeps that are thrown against a thunderstorm of drums and synthesizers. Mike and Brian (Nate was coaching a woman's Rugby game... AWESOME) divulged plans for a "Kites" music video (we can't wait!) and spoke about the inspirations and influences that led to a more electronic-sounding album. They'll be opening for Atlas Sound (Holy shitballs) at this year's 2010 Noise Pop Festival. Two tracks from the upcoming Animal Shapes (drops March), can be heard in the video.

New tuneage from Or, the Whale, MGMT + Eels!

Thu, 4 Feb 2010 00:00:00 EST
We've got a whole slew of new music coming your way today: new vids, a cover and a much-anticipated album announcement from one of our fave bands. Let's show some of our local faves dome love! Or, the Whale released this fantastic cover of Britney Spears' "Toxic" last week. We're diggin' how slow it moves, and the country-styled guitar.

Meanwhile, Eels have released the video for "Unhinged", a track from their latest album End Times, which dropped Jan. 18. Creepy stop animation baby dolls for the win! Don't let your kids see this if you want them to ever sleep again.

Speaking of new albums, electro darlings MGMT are going to release their second album titled Congratulations! April 13.

Leonard Cohen postpones European tour

Thu, 4 Feb 2010 00:00:00 EST
Canadian singer-songwriter Leonard Cohen has had to postpone his European tour for six months to recover from a back injury.

The 75-year-old crooner, who has performed almost 200 concerts since he resumed touring in 2008, apparently sustained a compression injury while exercising, his manager said. Cohen rescheduled a handful of dates in eastern Europe and France from mid-March to September.

Fall Out Boy talk fall out

Wed, 3 Feb 2010 00:00:00 EST
Are Fall Out Boy vocalist Patrick Stump's (pictured) statements that he's no longer in Fall Out Boy true? Well, thanks to a Twitter storm of comments from the band and friends of the band this week who the heck knows?

The band downplayed Stump's statement, with Pete Wentz stating that "We['re] in the exact position we were when we decided to take a break." And then Blink-182's Mark Hoppus, John Mayer and Wentz's wife Ashlee Simpson all joined and quit the band, too. Gotta love their sense of humor, but we still don't know what's up.

Frances Bean Cobain joins Amanda Palmer's Twin Project

Wed, 3 Feb 2010 00:00:00 EST
We heart kooky Amanda Palmer. We have since Dresden Dolls. Saying that, we can't even begin to say how eager we are for her Twin Project, especially considering the musical minds jumping on board. Frances Bean Cobain as well as Tegan and Sara has come on board to flesh out Palmer's Evelyn Evelyn vision — a band led by conjoined twins who are slated be releasing an album March 30. The twins, discovered by Palmer and music troubadour Jason Webley, will also be going on tour beginning in April. The duo also has a graphic novel based on their lives in the works.

New Releases Tuesday, Feb. 2

Tue, 2 Feb 2010 00:00:00 EST
You might still remember what it's like to look forward to Tuesdays as the Official Day of the Week when new albums, EPs, 7 inches, et. al. were (and still are) released to the world. It's completely understandable if you don't - after all, the digital age of music has progressed so rapidly that the artists themselves can barely keep up, let alone the average audience of music consumers. Well, here at The Owl Mag we still have a soft spot for the possession of the physical music (CD, LP, and whatever happened to 8-track tapes?), which is why we continue to publish album reviews in addition to mp3s, videos, and other such one-trick media.

The Album Leaf A Chorus of Storytellers
Anchors Music From The Future
Toni Braxton Pulse
Disco Biscuits Planet Anthem
Jamie Foxx Body
k.d. lang Recollection
Lifehouse Smoke & Mirrors
Lightspeed Champion Life Is Sweet! Nice To Meet You
Lil Wayne Rebirth
Midlake The Courage Of Others
* Mount Eerie Black Wooden EP
Nneka Concrete Jungle
Priestess Prior to the Fire
* The Soft Pack The Soft Pack
Toro Y Moi Causers Of This
We Are Wolves Invisible Violence
Rob Zombie Hellbilly Deluxe II

* The Owl recommends.

Jill Scott accused of turning back on label

Tue, 2 Feb 2010 00:00:00 EST
R&B star Jill Scott's former record label Hidden Beach is suing the singer for dropping them though they say she still owes them three records. Hidden Beach is alleging that they were the reason that Scott shot to fame, and that she stiffed them when it came time to show her gratitude. And by gratitude, we mean more music and fulfilling contractual obligations. According to Hidden Beach, their support "resulted in Scott becoming one of the most well-known, highly respected recording artists of our time." They are suing for undisclosed damages.

Stars re-record 'We Are the World'

Mon, 1 Feb 2010 00:00:00 EST
Quincy Jones has done it again, but this time it's for Haiti. The mega-producer has reached out to nearly 100 musicians to re-record the hit song "We Are the World" to benefit the Haiti Relief Fund. The song, which was recorded in 1985, originally raised $30 million for African humanitarian programs.

Jones joined Lionel Richie, who co-wrote the original song, to organize musicians from Barbra Streisand to Miley Cyrus. Bone Thugs-n-Harmony, Celine Dion and Kanye West all showed up Monday night for what was described as a marathon recording session. The song will debut Feb. 12 during the Winter Olympics.

Glasto confirms Muse + Stevie Wonder

Mon, 1 Feb 2010 00:00:00 EST
We pretty much lose our minds when a festival confirms Stevie Wonder on their roster, so you can imagine that we're packing our bags now that Muse and Wonder are joining U2 as headliners for this summer's Glastonbury Festival. Well, Wonder is almost there, but according to festival officials, "It is very much a possibility but he's still only on Michael Eavis' wish list — so not 100% confirmed, it's pending."

Hot Chip, Vampire Weekend and Dizzee Rascal are also all performing the sold out festival, which will take place on Worthy Farm June 23-27.

Live Nation Entertainment: Merger or Monopoly?

Tue, 26 Jan 2010 00:00:00 EST
After nearly a year hold from the Department of Justice, the path has been cleared for a Ticketmaster + Live Nation merger, ultimately forming Live Nation Entertainment to begin merging operations as early as Wednesday.

Now what exactly does this mean for consumers, venues, and artists? There are widely varying opinions on the long-term effects of this seemingly live entertainment monopoly, but Ticketmaster's CEO, Irving Azoff claims the merger creates "a more diversified company with a great selling platform for artists and a stronger financial profile that will drive improved shareholder value over the long term," and that "this is a big win for fans." What exactly will we win? So-called lower ticket prices and "convenience fees," among other "benefits."

With letters of support from top name artists like Billy Corgan, Shakira, Journey, and Eddie Van Halen (all managed by - ahem, Irving Azoff), it's no wonder the Department of Justice saw through the stacks of consumer outrage. According to Jim Guerinot, manager of Nine Inch Nails and No Doubt, "my hope and belief is that there is going to be an expanded opportunity for touring artists to [experiment with] a variety of different products." On the opposing side, Gary Adler of the National Association of Ticket Brokers and vocal contributor on TicketDisaster.org claims, "While today's decision is not the strongest in terms of protecting consumers, competition, and choice in the industry, it is all the more reason why consumers should continue to stand up and voice their concerns with this live entertainment monopoly." Chiming in with support are many artists such as The Boss himself, still fuming from his overinflated ticket disaster just a short year ago, alleging that even with the Department of Justice-mandated concessions, concert-goers will be potentially facing epically high ticket prices from the music industry's (now) largest live entertainment Goliath.

Where is the leveled playing field for competitors such as AEG and Comcast-Spectator, not to mention the small ticket retailers like TicketNetwork in this kind of a situation? What are your opinions on the long lasting effects of this merger?

Email me your feedback.

New Releases Tuesday, Jan. 26

Tue, 19 Jan 2010 00:00:00 EST
You might still remember what it's like to look forward to Tuesdays as the Official Day of the Week when new albums, EPs, 7 inches, et. al. were (and still are) released to the world. It's completely understandable if you don't - after all, the digital age of music has progressed so rapidly that the artists themselves can barely keep up, let alone the average audience of music consumers. Well, here at The Owl Mag we still have a soft spot for the possession of the physical music (CD, LP, and whatever happened to 8-track tapes?), which is why we continue to publish album reviews in addition to mp3s, videos, and other such one-trick media.

* Animal Collective Campfire Songs (reissue)
Basia Bulat Heart of My Own
7dayBinge 7dayBinge
Beach House Teen Dream
Jason Castro Jason Castro
Citay Get Together
Evacuate Chicago Veracity
Joe Firstman El Porto
* Fredrik Trilogi
Four Tet There Is Love In You
* Charlotte Gainsbourg Irm
Gorevette Lustfully Yours
* Lady Antebellum Need You Now
Locksley Be In Love
Jennifer Lopez Love?
Los Campesinos! Romance Is Boring
The Magnetic Fields Realism
Never Shout Never What Is Love?
Patrick & Eugene Altogether Now (Birds Bees Flowers Trees)
Evacuate Chicago Verasity
The Silent League ...But You've Always Been The Caretaker
Three 6 Mafia Laws Of Power

* The Owl recommends.

The Shins recording again?

Mon, 18 Jan 2010 00:00:00 EST
It looks like 2011 could be the year of The Shins. Lead singer James Mercer has spent the last couple of years touring and recording with his project Broken Bells (with Danger Mouse) but Mercer confirmed that he will record with the Shins and have a record out as soon as next year. Mercer promises that fans can look forward to more up-tempo Shins material. The Shins features a "new aesthetic", according to Mercer, as the original drummer and bassist/keyboardist are out, replaced by the Fruit Bats' Ron Lewis and Modest Mouse's Joe Plummer.

Aguilera not behind mystery campaign

Mon, 18 Jan 2010 00:00:00 EST
Who's behind "Iamamiwhoami"? Not Christina Aguilera, says her camp. The viral YouTube video campaign, which began in December, has ominously projected that something is coming with a bunch of numbers that may be a release date, or maybe just a sequence of numbers. Whatever it is, everyone's talking about the videos, and who's behind it: could it be Trent Reznor, The Knife or the ever-odd and talked about Lady Gaga? Guess we'll have to be patient, and wait for more clues or the big reveal.

Steven Tyler acts suspicious, yet again

Fri, 15 Jan 2010 00:00:00 EST
Steven Tyler: can you please get your life together? We are all for artists branching out and doing their own thing, but an impromptu concert over Home Depot's intercom system this past weekend? (He sang "Dude Looks Like a Lady" and "Don't Want to Miss a Thing" a capella.) And then while the artist graciously signed autographs for fans, he was taking hits off a helium machine and singing like a Bee Gee. The man has definitely been acting a little wonky lately.

Susan Sarandon smacks ass at Of Montreal concert

Fri, 15 Jan 2010 00:00:00 EST
You were in for a treat if you made it to the first night of the Of Montreal tour at the Highline Ballroom in New York City Tuesday night: not only did Solange Knowles join the band for a cover of Jackson 5's "I Want You Back," but audience member/famous actress Susan Sarandon hopped on stage to spank random guys in pig masks. We wouldn't have believed it if we hadn't seen the video. If this is an indication of how the rest of the tour goes, sign us up!

Watch a new video from the Yeah Yeah Yeahs

Thu, 14 Jan 2010 00:00:00 EST
The Yeah Yeah Yeahs' Karen O gets gothy for the premiere of the band's new music video for "Skeletons" — how appropriate.

The video, which premiered earlier this week, has crazy glamour queen Karen O's look matching the haunting sound of this new track with a flowing white gown and stark makeup. "Skeletons", a track from It's Blitz!, was written in a barn during a snowstorm back in '07, Karen O told Spin Magazine, thus influencing the sound and feel of the track.

YACHT to tour North America with full band

Thu, 14 Jan 2010 00:00:00 EST
Electro pop darlings YACHT will be touring North America beginning in February with a full band in tow. (Pun intended?) The Portland-based band, who is usually comprised of duo Jona Bechtolt and Claire L. Evans, will be appearing at a host of shows in Canada and the U.S. Though YACHT won't be in the Bay Area, they do have a SXSW date, if you're lucky enough to make the trek to Austin. Check out our review of when this super-enthusiastic duo opened for Vampire Weekend at the Independent in 2008.

Attn Bands: Make Your Music Video For FREE

Wed, 13 Jan 2010 00:00:00 EST
Think your sound needs to be documented in video? Are you about as video literate as an algae covered rock? (Please tell us you know what YouTube is!) It's no secret that the advent of video technology can increase your marketability. Well, our tech/MP3 guru/video goddess - Eugenia Loli-Queru - wants to help you take your passion to the next level. The best part, she wants to do it for FREE. And, she's not trying to build a portfolio or anything, she's just a huge fan. (Absolute madness, right?)

Eugenia is offering one day of shooting and 10-15 hours of editing. She simply asks that your music fits her palette and that you are local to the Bay Area. To be considered, email her here: Eugenia.

SAMPLES:

Radiohead, Britney doing their part for Haiti

Wed, 13 Jan 2010 00:00:00 EST
Radiohead stepped out of the studio last night long enough to appear at L.A.'s The Music Box so the band could perform at a Haiti benefit show, with all of the proceeds going to Oxfam. Lead singer Thom Yorke was even shocked when he announced that the show raised more than $500K.

Britney Spears is also helping out the earthquake victims by taking the clothes off her back to help. Well, not really. She's actually donating the dress she wore to the 2008 MTV VMAs for auction. The appearance was one of the first marking her very public comeback, so is sure to garner a good deal of cash on the auction block.

Peter Gabriel says no to Genesis reunion

Wed, 13 Jan 2010 00:00:00 EST
Though they haven't tried since 1982, Genesis won't completely reunite, even for the Hall of Fame.

Peter Gabriel spoke with Rolling Stone, shooting down the hopes and dreams of our dads everywhere when he said there was no hope of reunion. Though the rest of the group teamed up under the moniker back in '08, Gabriel finds that it's hard to join them: ""I always describe it as going back to school, since this was a school group for me. It's a fun place to visit and see your old friends, but it's not a place you want to live. Phil (Collins) has had trouble with his wrists and his back, so it's pretty unlikely."

Synth + Electronica = Rogue Wave?

Tue, 12 Jan 2010 00:00:00 EST
The last thing you'd expect from local indie rockers Rogue Wave is a dance record. But then again with all they've been through over the past few years (a kidney transplant, the death of a bandmate, bedridden with back problems, lineup changes) maybe a brighter sound is exactly what they need to bring in a more uplifting 2010. The recent premiere of the single "Good Morning" (download via Stereogum) is shockingly different sound at first: a pulsing synth-beat smacks you upside the head. But as Zach Rogue chants "the FUTURE, the FUTURE" we sense some well-deserved optimism for Permalight (out 3/2 via Brushfire).

Erykah Badu talks new album

Tue, 12 Jan 2010 00:00:00 EST
There have been a lot of rumors circulating around Erykah Badu's fifth studio album Entitled New Amerykah Part II: Return of the Ankh, which will be released March 30. Last month we heard from Billboard that Badu's nine MC'ed track "Jump in the Air" (featuring Andre 3000 and Lil Wayne) was in jeopardy of not being on the record since it had been leaked online, and sure enough it's not on the upcoming release. Badu's been working on this album since 2003, and will be performing at the newly dusted off Lilith Fair in 2010.

New Releases Tuesday, Jan. 19

Tue, 12 Jan 2010 00:00:00 EST
You might still remember what it's like to look forward to Tuesdays as the Official Day of the Week when new albums, EPs, 7 inches, et. al. were (and still are) released to the world. It's completely understandable if you don't - after all, the digital age of music has progressed so rapidly that the artists themselves can barely keep up, let alone the average audience of music consumers. Well, here at The Owl Mag we still have a soft spot for the possession of the physical music (CD, LP, and whatever happened to 8-track tapes?), which is why we continue to publish album reviews in addition to mp3s, videos, and other such one-trick media.

* Motion City Soundtrack My Dinosaur Life
Spoon Transference
* Editors In this Light and on this Evening
RJD2 The Colossus
Danny Barnes Pizza Box
The Hotrats Turn Ons
Monica Naranjo Adagio
Pear Little Immaculate White Fox
Gail Pettis Here in the Moment
The Len Price 3 Pictures
Lawson Rollins Espirito
South Memphis String Band Home Sweet Home
Surfer Blood Astro Coast

* The Owl recommends.

The Morning Benders Offer FREE download

Mon, 11 Jan 2010 00:00:00 EST
Head over to the web home of The Morning Benders right now and download the single "Promises". It's FREE! If this song is any indication of what is to come from their new album Big Echo (via Rough Trade 3/9) then we're looking at an early nom to every best of 2010 list.

NEW RELEASES TUESDAY, Jan. 12

Mon, 11 Jan 2010 00:00:00 EST
You might still remember what it's like to look forward to Tuesdays as the Official Day of the Week when new albums, EPs, 7 inches, et. al. were (and still are) released to the world. It's completely understandable if you don't - after all, the digital age of music has progressed so rapidly that the artists themselves can barely keep up, let alone the average audience of music consumers. Well, here at The Owl Mag we still have a soft spot for the possession of the physical music (CD, LP, and whatever happened to 8-track tapes?), which is why we continue to publish album reviews in addition to mp3s, videos, and other such one-trick media.

* Vampire Weekend Contra
Ringo Starr Y Not
* OK Go Of the Blue Colour of the Sky
O.A.R. Rain or Shine
Laura Veirs July Flame
All Time Low MTV Unplugged
Diana Damrau Coloraturas
Benny Goodman Yale University Archives Vol. 3
Gene Harris Another Night in London
Freedy Johnston Rain on the City
King Crimson Lizard
Seabird Rocks into Rivers
Sidewalk Prophets hese Simple Truths
Various Artists I’ll Be There: A Smooth Jazz Tribute to Michael Jackson
Various Artists We Are the World: An Instrumental Tribute to Michael Jackson
Johnny Winter Live Bootleg Series Volume 6

* The Owl recommends.

Dubious Ranger bids S.F. farewell

Fri, 8 Jan 2010 00:00:00 EST
Another San Francisco band bites the dust. The Bay Area's own Dubious Ranger are going on indefinite hiatus after their farewell show at the Red Devil Lounge tonight (Friday, Jan. 22).

The band, who says on their Twitter that they leave the "hipsters befuddled and the glam kids stoned", wrote this on their website: "It is with a tear in our eye and a gryphon on our left shoulder that we announce that Dubious Ranger will be going on indefinite hiatus after this month. It's been a great run, and we are forever thankful for the support and love you've given us over the last three years."

The guys will be playing with As A People and Mass Fiction. Tix are $8-$10 and doors open at 8 p.m. Head out and beg them not to leave us!

Aerosmith seeks new singer

Thu, 7 Jan 2010 00:00:00 EST
An Aerosmith without Steven Tyler? Sadly, it's the reality we're living. (Apparently focusing on Brand Tyler was a fancy euphemism for Tyler needing to go to rehab for a painkiller addiction.)

Joe Perry and the rest of the Aerosmith crew are on the look out for a new lead singer, and they're hoping to have someone in place by the summer so the band can resume touring. With Tyler wrapping up rehab — the man has had quite the history with drugs — and facing leg and foot surgery this year, he's not likely to be on stage anytime soon. Perry insists that he still wants to perform with Tyler in the future: "I'm ready to write with him, to play on stage with him anytime he's physically ready and wants to do it," Perry said to Canada's QMI Agency. "But it's really up to him.... and the last things he said to the press were that he wanted to work with the band and sing with the band, so we'll see."

The New Pornographers band together again for new album

Thu, 7 Jan 2010 00:00:00 EST
We can't help how much we love Canadian/American indie-super-group The New Pornographers, so we are fairly falling from our rolling desk chairs at the enthusiasm for a new studio album from The New Pornographers.

The eight-person line-up has been back in studios, hard at work recording the band's fifth studio album called Together. Nine tracks have been written by A.C. Newman, while Dan Bejar has penned three. Together drops on Matador Records May 4.

P.S. If you're in NYC, check out A.C. Newman at a one-off Seekers cover band show benefiting the Haiti relief Jan. 27.

Spoon, Shins members cover love songs for Starbucks

Wed, 6 Jan 2010 00:00:00 EST
Starbucks knows how to capitalize on those of us poor saps who like to see some of our favorite indie artists cover some of the most rockin' love songs ever recorded. Spoon (pictured) and the Shins' James Mercer all have contributed a song to this year's edition of Sweetheart, a compilation out in time for Valentine's Day.

Check out this tracklist:

1. Jose Gonzalez: "Hand on Your Heart" (Kylie Minogue cover)
2. Grand Archives: "Cupid" (Sam Cooke cover)
3. James Mercer & Robert Mercer: "Spanish Harlem Incident" (Bob Dylan cover)
4. Spoon: "Love Song" (The Damned cover)
5. Elvis Perkins: "Teneme en Tu Corazon (Keep Me in Your Heart)" (traditional)
6. The Long Winters: "Give Me All Your Lovin'" (ZZ Top cover)
7. Yo La Tengo: "You Make Me Feel Good" (The Zombies cover)
8. Céu: "Eu Amo Você (I Love You)" (Tim Maia cover)
9. Diane Birch: "I Go Crazy" (Paul Davis cover)
10. Jason Collett and Zeus: "Every Night" (Paul McCartney cover)
11. The Avett Brothers: "I Love" (Tom T. Hall cover)
12. Mates of State: "Long Way Home" (Tom Waits cover)
13. Angelique Kidjo: "Ne Me Quitte Pas (If You Go Away)" (Jacques Brel cover)
14. Hey Marseilles: "True Love Will Find You in the End" (Daniel Johnston cover)

The album is currently available on iTunes.

Coachella lineup revealed!

Wed, 6 Jan 2010 00:00:00 EST
It's time to pack that sunscreen, kiddos, because the most fun you'll ever have in a desert is upon us again. We're losing our shit over this lineup that was just released on Coachella's website today. Thom Yorke (pictured) and Sly and the Family Stone on the same day? Them Crooked Vultures, Muse, Gossip and so many more are going to burn up Indio, Ca. April 16 through 18. Seriously, there's not a single band you're going to want to miss at 2010's first stab at great big summer music festivals.

Rapper Wyclef Jean getting heat on Haiti relief

Tue, 5 Jan 2010 00:00:00 EST
We reported yesterday about Wyclef Jean joining a host of other musicians aiding in the relief for Haitian earthquake victims: apparently the musician is having to defend his fundraising after watchdogs brought up his foundation's accounting practices. Jean responded today to accusations that some of the relief funds have gone in the past for Jean's personal use, describing the accusations as "disgusting."

The Killers to take hiatus?

Tue, 5 Jan 2010 00:00:00 EST
Guitarist for The Killers Dave Keuning let it slip to the Australian media that the band is exhausted and is taking a break. Saying that their show for the Aussie Good Vibrations festival will be the last for a while, Keuning mentioned that he didn't know if the break was permanent. This comes on the heels of an April 2009 report that the band is supposed sick of each other, a piece of information that was denied by a Killer spokesperson. But then again here comes this break, so all we can do is wait and see.

Dixie Chicks doing own thing without Natalie Maine?

Mon, 4 Jan 2010 00:00:00 EST
Sisters Emily Robison and Martie Maguire, two-thirds of the Dixie Chicks, have struck out on their own while lead singer Natalie Maine is on indefinite hiatus. The duo have recorded a new album under the moniker Court Yard Hounds, and have plans to debut at this year's SXSW.

"Emily and I had the itch," Maguire said to Rolling Stone, "and every time we’d call Natalie and say 'are you ready?' she wasn’t ready. She wanted a clear-cut break." The group isn't completely over, though, despite the fact that they don't see each other often.

Amanda Palmer and Neil Gaiman announce engagement

Mon, 4 Jan 2010 00:00:00 EST
Geek-dom's Brangelina have announced their engagement. Neil Gaiman, author of numerous science fiction novels (The Sandman, American Gods, anyone?), proposed to The Dresden Doll's Amanda Palmer.

The two posted the news to their respective blogs Saturday afternoon, confirming the Tweet that Palmer posted on New Year's Day that said "new years was all that and more. might have told @neilhimself i'd marry him but also might have been drunk." The couple have been dating since June 2009.

Congrats, you crazy kids!

Kanye West recording again

Fri, 1 Jan 2010 00:00:00 EST
Kanye West is back in the studio following up on 2008's 808s & Heartbreak and the rapper has a plan to keep relevant as his career matures.

Back recording, where we enjoy him the most — you know, not picking on teenage country stars or having some sort of fit — West wrote on his blog that he plans to show a true dedication like "Kobe (Bryant) has on the court."

"It's funny how so many rappers get worse as their careers stretch out, but true poets get better. We will follow in the footsteps of Maya Angelou, Gill Scott-Heron and Nina Simone. Their work improved with time. They documented what was happening in culture. That is our responsibility as the modern day artists and poets," wrote West.

Bloc Party, Coldplay and other bands call for Haiti relief

Fri, 1 Jan 2010 00:00:00 EST
The devastating events of this week's earthquake in Haiti has brought a number of bands together calling for aid for the country.

Blink-182 has released limited edition t-shirts with the Blink bunny holding a Haitian flag. Proceeds go to the Red Cross. Wyclef Jean, who is Haitian-American, has already raised $750,000 in relief funds from promoting Yele.com on his Twitter. Other artists like Wilco and Yoko Ono have also helped through Twitter.

Bloc Party and Coldplay have posted statements on their websites asking their fans to donate money to Haiti. Bloc Party frontman Kele Okereke wrote: "Bloc Party supports Oxfam American because they save lives, help people overcome poverty, and fight for social justice. They help our fans become activists, by showing them how take action to change things for the better."

Lady Gaga cancels concert after collapse

Thu, 31 Dec 2009 00:00:00 EST
Lady Gaga has rescheduled her Purdue University concert after she collapsed and had to cancel the show on Thursday. Lady Gaga, who has been touring like a madwoman and even appearing on Oprah this week, was found struggling to breathe before the Indiana gig. The sold-out show was canceled after the opening acts had already performed.

Lady Gaga took to her Twitter to apologize to fans: "I've been crying for hours, I feel like I let my fans down tonight. An hour before the show, I was feeling dizzy and having trouble breathing. Paramedics came to take care of me, and told me my heart rate was irregular — a result of exhaustion and dehydration. Can't apologize enough for how sorry I am. I could hear my fans cheering from my dressing room, I begged everyone to let me go onstage. My stage has complicated mechanical elements, everyone was concerned I'd be in danger during the two-hour show, since I had passed out earlier."

Citizen Cope records first new album in four years

Thu, 31 Dec 2009 00:00:00 EST
Memphis indie rocker Citizen Cope has eschewed his past label issues and is coming out with his first LP in four years. Rainwater, which drops March 2, is described in a press release from Citizen Cope as "a laidback gumbo of acoustic blues, singer/songwriter rock 'n' roll and deep soul grooves." The album will be Citizen Cope's first on his own label called RainWater Recordings, Inc.

When asked why he was recording on his own label, Citizen Cope said, "A lot of labels wanted to put it out, but I kept hearing things like 'Retail's gonna need you to do this' or 'The artwork has to be like this.' I don't want to be led into those confines anymore. I want to be able to do it my own way. Being able to operate efficiently, not having to move buildings to do anything, just seems so basic for any artistic endeavor."

Citizen Cope will also be at the Fillmore for two dates (April 9 & 10) as a part of his 2010 tour.

Music world loses Jay Reatard, Teddy Pendergrass

Wed, 30 Dec 2009 00:00:00 EST
Jay Reatard (pictured), garage-punk rocker, was found dead at his home in Memphis Wednesday. He was 29. The rocker has been performing in bands since he was 15. Performing as a three-piece band under the moniker Jay Reatard, Reatard was tapped by Spin Magazine as "Big in '08." It's a shame to see a promising star die so early in his career.

Meanwhile, R&B legend Teddy "Teddy P" Pendergrass has also died at the age of 59. The man, who continued a recording career after a 1982 car crash left him wheelchair-bound, after some months of health issues. He was known for the solo hits "I Don't Love You Anymore" and "Close the Door."

Weezer's back! Cuomo gets clean bill of health

Wed, 30 Dec 2009 00:00:00 EST
A tour bus accident may have sidelined Weezer's tour, but the band is officially back after lead singer Rivers Cuomo was given the a-okay from his doctors.

Cuomo, who sustained lung and spleen injuries in the crash last month, will join his band Jan. 20 at Florida State University in Tallahassee for their first comeback show since the accident. After that, the band doesn't have a scheduled performance until May 2 for New Jersey's Bamboozle Festival.

Music for Burton's 'Alice' revealed

Tue, 29 Dec 2009 00:00:00 EST
We've been losing our minds since the words "Tim Burton" and "Alice in Wonderland" were used in the same sentence a couple of years ago. Needless to say, we've been anxiously anticipating the soundtrack of such an opus, and this week we finally got a peek at the tracklist, thanks to MySpace.

It's a little difficult to follow Alice through the looking glass with this list, that mixes the likes of the always mopey Robert Smith and Scot rockers Franz Ferdinand with the pop sounds of Avril Lavigne (pictured) and Pete Wentz. But we have faith in Burton who hasn't disappointed in a soundtrack yet.

Here's the full list:

1. "Alice (Underground)" performed by Avril Lavigne
2. "The Poison" performed by The All-American Rejects
3. "The Technicolor Phase" performed by Owl City
4. "Her Name Is Alice" performed by Shinedown
5. "Painting Flowers" performed by All Time Low
6. "Where's My Angel" performed by Metro Station
7. "Strange" performed by Tokio Hotel and Kerli
8. "Follow Me Down" performed by 3OH!3 featuring Neon Hitch
9. "Very Good Advice" performed by Robert Smith
10. "In Transit" performed by Mark Hoppus with Pete Wentz
11. "Welcome to Mystery" performed by Plain White T's
12. "Tea Party" performed by Kerli
13. "The Lobster Quadrille" performed by Franz Ferdinand
14. "Running Out of Time" performed by Motion City Soundtrack
15. "Fell Down a Hole" performed by Wolfmother
16. "White Rabbit" performed by Grace Potter and the Nocturnals

Perez Hilton and 'A.I.' creator team up for boy band search

Tue, 29 Dec 2009 00:00:00 EST
Something about Perez Hilton searching out the best boy band for the next generation disturbs us, just a little bit.

The taste-maker is teaming with American Idol's creator Simon Fuller to find those that Hilton calls the "best, brightest and boldest" from boys ranging in age 13 to 21. You've got to be able to sing, dance and never lose that baby face. Just kidding about the last part.

Hilton posted to his website last night about the project: "I am beyond thrilled and honored to be working with Jamie King and Simon Fuller, both legends. We are looking for the best, brightest and boldest! This is a boy band unlike any other before. ALL of the members will sing. ALL of the members will dance. Finding our talented group won't be easy, but the end result is going to be soooooooo worth it. I can hear the screaming girls already!"

Simon Cowell quitting 'Idol'

Mon, 28 Dec 2009 00:00:00 EST
It's the end of an era: Simon Cowell is leaving American Idol after this season to focus on X Factor. Somehow, it didn't hurt so much when the drunk-seeming Paula Abdul left the show last year.

Cowell, known for his abrasive and more-than-straightforward feedback, was offered more money to stay, but he'd rather concentrate on being a judge on his other show X Factor, which will also be on FOX this year.

S.F. DJ remixes Beyonce and Andy Griffith?

Mon, 28 Dec 2009 00:00:00 EST
The week's almost over, kids! Hallelujah!

We're here to bring you something to bring you on home, yet another "Single Ladies" remix. So 2009, you say? Give this a chance: San Francisco producer/remixer/DJ Party Ben took Beyonce's 2009 anthem and mixed it with none other than the theme from The Andy Griffith Show. Prepare to lose your shit, folks.

Yoko Ono Plastic Ono Band gets a little help from famous friends

Fri, 25 Dec 2009 00:00:00 EST
Yoko Ono has booked her the Plastic Ono Band for a couple of extremely rare shows, including one Noise Pop date at the Fox Theater in February. If the line up for their Brooklyn date is any indication, Noise Pop will be unlike any show the Bay Area's seen.

Yoko Ono and the Plastic Ono Band will be joined by Eric Clapton, Bette Midler, Rufus Wainwright and the Scissor Sisters at the Bam Howard Gilman Opera House in Brooklyn. Yea, our minds our blown, too. Deerhoof opens for the Plastic Ono Band in Oakland Feb. 23, where the band will be backed by Cornelius, Yuka Honda, and Sean Lennon.

New music from M.I.A. to heat up the summer

Fri, 25 Dec 2009 00:00:00 EST
Brand new mama M.I.A. has been back in the studios, recording a follow-up to the hit 2007 album Kala. The yet-to-be-named album will drop sometime this summer, she told Rolling Stone, and the songstress promises that there will be singing as well as rapping on the album. She's been working with Baltimore producer and DJ Blaqstarr, who worked previously with M.I.A. on the Kala track "The Turn." According to M.I.A., Blaqstarr "simply makes music that sounds good, and (she) needed that."

S.F.'s The Dodos rock Letterman

Thu, 24 Dec 2009 00:00:00 EST
San Francisco's the Dodos made their U.S. television debut on David Letterman this past Friday, performing "Fables" on the late night show. For those of you who were out and about watching some local music live and forgot to set your DVRs, we've got a clip of their performance here.

In other Dodos news FUEL TV will be airing "Check 1, 2: The Dodos" Monday night at 5 p.m. PST. Also, they'll be at Noise Pop performing a really special performance of ten Dodos arrangements with the Magik Magik Orchestra at the Palace of Fine Arts. You can get more information about the show here.

Slayer cancels world tour

Thu, 24 Dec 2009 00:00:00 EST
The boys of Slayer have been sidelined as bassist and vocalist Tom Araya goes through back surgery next month. Unfortunately this means that their world tour has been canceled before it even took off.

"Tom gave various medical treatments more than a fair shot," said Slayer's manager Rick Sales in a press release, "but they just haven't handled the problem, so he's biting the bullet and is scheduled for back surgery at the end of this month."

Araya, who often headbangs on stage (come on, it's SLAYER, who doesn't headbang?), has been experiencing back issues since October of last year. Slayer and Megadeath are already scrambling to reschedule tour dates for when Araya has recovered.

Movers + Shakers Share 2009 Best Of Lists

Thu, 24 Dec 2009 00:00:00 EST
We can make a list of best ofs, and, you, dear readers, can turn a blind cheek. You can scoff at our bloated egos; egos so quick to tally a list of bests faster than judgmental high-school brats. But when industry types like the ones below put together lists, it's in all of our best interests to pay close attention. Imagine our excitement when these super cool friends and golden ears of the Bay Area music scene, opened a window to their hearts to reveal their inner music geek. It's not often you get to see them as fans. Guess what? Industry types DO love music. Crazy, huh?

Read onward to find lists comprised of certain songs, albums, and bands that made an impression on these industry studs (and stud-ette!).

Aaron Axelsen - Music Director Live 105

1. WHITE LIES - To Lose My Life

Dark and gloomy London indie rockers in the vein of Joy Division, Editors, Echo and The Bunnymen and Interpol. incredible songs, immaculate production and they are fantastic live as well. White Lies makes me yearn to be 17 again and sitting in a graveyard writing poems for cute Livermore goth-new wave girls!

"To Lose My Life" video

2. JON HOPKINS - Insides

Haunting and airy electronic soundcapes and the perfect soundtrack for that road trip to Coachella next year or driving through the desert. Can't wait until Aviator comes out on DVD so I can mute the movie and watch it blasting Jon Hopkins in the background through my stereo speakers.

"Light Through the Veins" video

3. MAPS - Turning the Mind

Dreamy and intoxicating nu-gaze lullabies fill this sophomore album from this very precocious London artist. Think Slowdive, My Bloody Valentine, Doves or Spiritualized fused with glitchy electronic beats. As you listen to "We Can Create" you're not sure if you just stare at your shoes OR get on the freakin' dancefloor. This is a must for fans of M83, Boards Of Canada or Ride!

"I Dream of Crystal" video

4. MIIKE SNOW -

Swedish musical visionaries that deftly amalgamates dub, electronica, indie rock, reggae and pop into one impeccably crafted debut album! Also, they are the culprits of one of THE best live shows I saw in 2009 by far. (They play as an eight piece!) Go see them in April at the Independent and be prepared to be blown away.

"Animal" video

5. FANFARLO - Reservoir

Fantastic new London six-piece that are cut from the same cloth as Arcade Fire, The Decemberists, Broken Social Scene and even Belle & Sebastian!

"The Walls are Coming Down" video

6. GOSSIP - Music For Men

Riot grrl punks and underground cult-faves GOSSIP, led by their charismatic and dazzling leader Beth Ditto, hooked up this year with legendary record producer and music guru Rick Rubin and the end result was one of the most stand-out albums of 2009 by far!! GOSSIP headlined our not so silent night pre-party last week at the Mezzanine and brought the house down with an explosive performance of epic proportions.

"Love Long Distance" video

7. THE BIG PINK - A Brief History of Love

From the storied 4ad independent record label comes more hypnotic, lush and psychedelic grooves in the form of this incredible new London two-piece THE BIG PINK! Highly recommended for those with an affinity for the the drony sounds of Spacemen 3, A Place To Bury Strangers, Verve, Jesus And Mary Chain and Black Rebel Motorcycle Club. Coming to the Great American Music Hall this Spring.

"Dominoes" video

8. PASSION PIT - Manners

Arguably one of the biggest radio soundcheck breakthrough acts of 2009 belongs to Boston's post-punk and indie-disco specialists PASSION PIT! They've gone from playing small hipster parties to headlining the Warfield in 2010, all within in a two year span. Thankfully, they lived up to the mountain of blog hype and critical acclaim by releasing a ridiculously strong debut album

"Little Secrets" video

9. DAN BLACK - Uni

Endearing, honest, clever and infectiously wonderful electropop gems await you after your rush out to your local Amoeba or Rasputins' record outlet and snag for yourself the debut album from new UK artist DAN BLACK. If your iPod is monopolized by the likes of Hot Chip, The Streets, Calvin Harris, Owl City, Postal Service, Beck and Phoenix, then i feel that Dan Black will find a nice home in your digital musical library. Coming to Popscene in February!!

"Symphonies" video

10. OTHER LIVES - Other Lives

One of 2009's finest 'pure' indie rock albums belongs to this new Stillwater, Oklahoma collective. An absolute must for fans of Band of Horses, Red House Painters, The Shins, Wolf Parade and Flaming Lips.

Steve Brodsky - Music manager (Figurehead Management) and owner of Mr. Roboto Presents

I also work out of Different Fur Studios in the Mission District...a true hub for musical expression in the Bay Area with a rich history, which allows me access to all different types of music professionals from bands to managers and label folks!

1. Mayer Hawthorne - "Just Ain't gonna work out"
- A NJB from Detroit making Motown proud, oh yeah and he's one of Snoop Dogg's favorite new artists!

2. Dirty Projectors - "Stillness is the Move"
-I love so many things about this song my one sentence description limit was impossible to stick too.

3. YG - "Toot It & Boot It"
-Youth a stripped down beat and after all this time a brand new way to say 'hit it and quit it'.

4. Animal Collective - "My Girls"
-Thanks to my friends taking me to the Henry Miller Library in Big Sur and getting to witness this song live and in the most unbelievable setting imaginable!

5. Phoenix - "1901"
-Yeah, I know the band was featured in a car commercial but it's one of the best pop rock records since The Strokes Is This it. Right?

6. Sleigh Bells - "Ring Ring"
-A new band that's to me a little bit MIA, B-52's, The Neptunes and Fugazi go with a Parliment "Can You Get To That" on this sleeper track!

7. Keri Hilson ft. Lil Wayne - "Turnin Me On"
-I was in the car driving to work when I heard this song pulled over and asked who produced it on Twitter cause the beat hit me that hard on first listen.

8. Jack Penate - "Tonight's Today"
-This was the song that came out last summer that should be playing at every summer BBQ next year!

9. Miike Snow - "Animal"
-If there was a second cut on this record anywhere near as strong as this one this would be Coldplay big!

10. Das Racist - "Combination Pizza Hut and Taco Bell (Wallpaper Remix)"
-Here's to hoping that the next incarnation of this song touches on all the beauty that is the combination KFC, Pizza Hut and Taco Bell.

Honorable Mention: Edward Sharpe and Magentic Zeros "Home" - Yeah Yeah Yeahs "Zero (Animal Collective Remix)" - Grizzly Bear "Two Weeks" - Cass McCombs "Dream Girl" - Fitz and the Tantrums "Breaking The Chains of Love" - The XX "Islands / Crystallized" - Wallpaper "T-Rex " - Anything w/ Gucci Mane!

Mr Roboto Presents Industry Be...

Larry Little - Owner of Future Sounds

Band Of Skulls - Baby Darling Doll Face Honey
Portugal. The Man - The Satanic Satanists
The Answering Machine - Another City, Another Sorry
Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros - Up From Below
Cat Party - Cat Party
The Brothers Movement - The Brothers Movement
Generationals - Con Law
Yeah Yeah Yeahs - It's Blitz
Phoenix - Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix
Maus Haus - Lark Marvels

Best EP
Fitz & The Tantrums - Songs For A Break-Up Vol. 1

Bryan Duquette - Another Planet Entertainment

I am a concert promoter with Another Planet Entertainment. We produce festivals including Outside Lands and Treasure Island and concerts at San Francisco Bay Area venues including The Greek Theatre, The Fox Theater and The Independent.

Top 10 Artists of 2009 (in alphabetical order)

Animal Collective
Dirty Projectors
Edward Sharpe & the Magnetic Zeros
Grizzly Bear
Jay-Z
Monsters of Folk
Passion Pit
The Avett Brothers
The Decemberists
Wilco

Anna Gazdowicz - music editor Stranger Dance

I'm a junkie for all things local - food, drink, art, and most importantly, music. I've been blogging about the Bay Area indie music scene for several years, serving. I've also spent time volunteering for the Bay Area Girls Rock Camp (girls rock!) and pretending to learn how to play the guitar. I hope to keep pioneering the best of the Bay Area in 2010!

Personal Top 10 of 2009:
1) Various Artists - Dark Was the Night compilation
2) The Rural Alberta Advantage - Hometowns
3) Fanfarlo - Reservoir
4) Brendan Benson - My Old, Familiar Friend
5) The Wooden Birds - Magnolia
6) Laura Gibson - Beasts of Season
7) J Tillman - Vacilando Territory Blues
8) St. Vincent - Actor
9) The Dodos - Time to Die
10) Girls - Album

The Obligatory Best Albums of 2009 List

Wed, 23 Dec 2009 00:00:00 EST
There's so much good shit out there. And it's totally ridiculous for you to expect us to compile a "BEST OF" list. But since we love you with all of our collective hearts; we decided that for you, anything was possible. And, gee willikers!, it's that time of year to give and we wanted to take it a step further. So, our team of elves scoured the Interwebs for free MP3s so that your voracious music appetites could legally download. (You won't have to worry about the cops invading your hard-drive.) Who knows, these tidbits may make you want to open up that thinning wallet. Happy Holidays!

Without further ado, this is our obligatory best of 2009 list. (Yes, there are duplicates. We loved them twice as much!)

Obligatory Best Of 2009

Tegan and Sara
Sainthood
BUY

MP3: FREE TRACK

Tegan and Sara's Sainthood has it all: love, life, longing, and loss. The Quin sisters continue to write songs with ticking time-bomb hearts. Heavy on keyboards, poppy bass, foot tapping beats, and lyrics bursting with urgency. Stand out tracks include "Hell," "Alligator," and their first co-written song to appear on an album, "Paperback Head."

- Danielle Kramer

Raekwon
Only Built 4 Cuban Linx, Pt. 2
BUY

The "sequel" to 1995's "Only Built for Cuban Linx", also starring Ghostface Killah, Raekwon's latest solo album is one of the best Wu-Tang solo albums to surface in a few years. Featuring the usual cast of Wu-Tang characters, the album includes a genuinely touching (yes, I said touching) tribute to ODB, the track "Ason Jones." It's definitely a worthy sequel to a great first album.

-Jess Hemerly

The Wooden Birds
Magnolia
BUY

MP3: FREE

Not only is this my favorite album of 2009 recommended by a friend, it is among my favorites overall this year. American Analog Set's Andrew Kenny teamed up with members of Ola Podrida and Sparklehorse as Wooden Birds to make a bare and gentle album that hints at the AmAnSet sound without sounding like an imitation.

-Jess Hemerly

Wolfmother
Cosmic Egg
BUY

MP3: FREE

As disrespectful as this might sound, this is the Led Zeppelin of the 21st Century, with a twist. Classic rock listeners would enjoy their thick power-chords and Sabbath-esque vocals.

-Eugenia Loli-Queru

Dredg
The Pariah, The Parrot, The Delusion
BUY

The best album by the local Los Gatos band, very eclectic. The band has a very rich sound, and the playful nature of the tracks becomes evident after a few listens.

-Eugenia Loli-Queru

Living Things
Habeas Corpus
BUY

MP3: FREE

Great hard rock. "Mercedes Marxist", "Let It Rain", and "Oxygen" stand out, but the rest of the album is equally good. A very political album, with snake-biting lyrics.

-Eugenia Loli-Queru

DRIST
Science of Misuse
BUY
EXCLUSIVE FREE DOWNLOAD: Before I Die

After 3 years of complete absence, the San Mateo boys are back -- with their original guitarist! Great guitar sound, good vocals, and hooky hard rock melodies.

-Eugenia Loli-Queru

Rural Alberta Advantage
Hometowns
BUY

MP3: FREE

The charmingly earnest debut from this Canadian trio really is all about rural Alberta--but fans from everywhere can appreciate the Neutral Milk Hotel-inspired sound and the affecting lyrics about loss and leaving. Also, the drumming is insanely good.

-Kiri Oliver

Japandroids
Post-Nothing
BUY

MP3: FREE

These two guys from Vancouver write scrappy, exuberant rock anthems with hooks all over the place. Their debut is full of irresistible sing-alongs that are tons of fun to experience live.

-Kiri Oliver

Cold Cave
Love Comes Close
BUY

MP3: FREE

American Nightmare's Wes Eisold, poet laureate of the hardcore scene, tries his hand at writing ominous synth-pop--and turns out to be awesome at it. Joy Division melancholy meets industrial alienation on this haunting and danceable debut.

-Kiri Oliver

Raekwon
Only Built 4 Cuban Linx, Pt. 2
BUY

Sequels usually suck, right? Not at all for the Chef and Ghostface, who reteamed and somehow recaptured the magic of not only the all time classic 'purple tape', but of the WU itself. The gritty mafia inspired street tales sound just as fresh and relevant as they did 14 years ago. When Ghost raps "they found a two year old strangled to death, with a "love daddy" shirt on in a bag at the top of the steps," it makes Kanye and Drake's complaints about stardom (the current du jour topic in hip hop) sound trivial and disconnected.

-Jeff Bracco

Animal Collective
Merriweather Post Pavilion
BUY

MP3: FREE

This album dropped at the beginning of the year, and in my opinion was never topped. With this record, the band came into their own and sounded comfortable for the first time since Sung Tongs. Instead of avant garde experiments, we got some sunny feel good music. The explosion during "In Flowers" pops with manic energy, and "My Girls" is easily the bands most accessible track.

-Jeff Bracco

fun.
Aim & Ignite
BUY

MP3: FREE

In the case of fun., it's quite safe to say that the sum is greater than its parts - while the three bandmembers each have their own (very talented) projects, the brilliant Aim & Ignite is possibly better than anything those projects have collectively released. Jam-packed with hooks and laced with lyrics that resonate long after the album's 40-odd minutes have ended, A&I is an album worthy of the ages. Standout tracks: "At Least I'm Not As Sad," "Walking the Dog," "The Gambler."

-Lauren Mulcahy

The Swellers
Ups and Downsizing
BUY

The Swellers' sophomore offering is contemporary pop-punk perfection, pure and simple. "Stars" and "Dirt" - two of the album's standout tracks - display a depth of emotion and songwriting prowess only hinted at on the Michigan quartet's first album, and the intensely catchy "Sleeper" is guaranteed to stay stuck in the heads of every listener. This young - but incredibly talented - band just might hold the saviors of a genre long-abused by all but its most faithful.

-Lauren Mulcahy

Paper Route
Absence
BUY

This band is beyond stellar. If you thought their fantastic videos and live shows are mind-blowing, the record is going to knock your socks off. It has a great balance of the energies of all of their previous releases and presents the most cohesive elements of their abilities. This is a band of guys who clearly knows their direction and creates music that opens doors in my brain and heart.

-Angela Poe

Them Crooked Vultures
Them Crooked Vultures
BUY

It's heavy and really robust, but melodic and rockin at the same time. These are self-editors in just about every part of the process. The players are seasoned professionals and can easily make a kick-ass record in the studio, but these are songs that can be VERY easily translated live as well which will make them top my list.

-Angela Poe

Silversun Pickups
Swoon
BUY

I had an advance copy of this record and was sworn to keep it to myself which was probably the hardest thing I've had to do all year. Seriously, this collection of songs isn't Carnavas, it's something else. And it's just as fantastic. It speaks a more mature language and the themes are clearer. We lounge in the lush musical cloud and relate to the grounded perspective in the lyrics.

-Angela Poe

Bat for Lashes
Two Suns
BUY

This album has a LOT of really great songs on it. The first record was a bit boring and this one more than makes up for it. I'd like to think access to better production, more time to sort out musical thoughts and having some new experiences brought her into a whole other stage of life. I'm glad to see life-living pay off in such a positive, creative way.

-Angela Poe

Animal Collective
Merriweather Post Pavilion
BUY

MP3: FREE

Every time I think I've had my fill of this record, I put it on and I'm instantly struck by some new layer or some new moment I hadn't noticed before and I'm hooked. I was drawn in at first listen to "My Girls" and the subsequent remixes and covers that followed only proved one thing: this band is far too complex and talented to be improved upon. Nice goin.

-Angela Poe

Neko Case
Middle Cyclone
BUY

MP3: FREE

Neko Case’s ridiculously strong and recognizable voice drives this disc through ruminations on nature, love, and some of her most personal lyrics to date. Sometimes playful, sometimes heartbreaking, and always poppy yet abandoning conventional structure, the tracks are satisfying in just about all the ways a song should be. Check “People Got A Lotta Nerve” for thundering pop, “Vengeance Is Sleeping” beautiful pain, and “Magpie To The Morning” for moments of vocal prowess that soar.

-Liz Levine

Grizzly Bear
Veckatimest
BUY

MP3: FREE

From the very chamber-pop entrance of "Southern Point" to the prodigious slow and steady chorus ending on "Foreground," this album takes perfection and detail to the next level. While previous Grizzly Bear albums were impressive, yes, the members didn't have the solidified glue between them to keep us all interested through and through. However, if their mass success isn't a testament (I mean if Jay-Z endorses it then it must be gold, right?), then their live performance truly makes skeptics into converts. Coming in clutch when indie needed it most, Veckatimest provided a much-needed resuscitation from the wave of horrendous indie pop blasting to the masses as of late. This album will be influential on future artists for many years to come.

-Julie Dyer

Dirty Projectors
Bitte Orca
BUY

MP3: FREE

This one was a particularly surprise stand-out in '09. For a band led entirely by Dave Longstreth with an otherwise rotating list of cast members, the Dirty Projectors appear to have found the winning combination with these 3 very talented ladies and holding down the direction and rhythm section (Brian Mcomber on drums and Nat Baldwin handling the bass) with 3 convincingly amazing gentleman. The somewhat solid cast of supreme artists along with Longstreth's improved song-writing and artistic direction showcases the group’s keen ability to use their own gut-wrenchingly beautiful voices as pure instruments. Case and point – the gorgeous harmonies between Deradoorian, Coffman and new addition, Haley Dekle in “Useful Chamber,” and “Remade Horizon,” are so completely perfect and on point, you won't believe they're real. Bitte Orca presents their brand of melodic organized chaos in the most fluent, and strikingly beautiful way possible.

-Julie Dyer

Passion Pit
Manners
BUY

MP3: FREE

The long-awaited full-length album stretching from a home-made EP that Michael Angelakos developed to woo a lady managed to capture the imaginations of hipsters all across the country. Although he didn't get the said lady, he did instead create a beautiful combination of electro-pop with his new band mates sampling everything from Mario and Luigi-era Nintendo blips to Ireland's Mary O'hara. Leaving no stone left unturned, Manners is surprisingly emotional as it is entertaining with hooks and bridges that ring in your head for days. Two big thumbs up for these gorgeous electro-pop creations.

-Julie Dyer

St. Vincent
Actor
BUY

MP3: FREE

Manipulative guitar riffs, creatively placed echoes and bizarre melodies are what defines Miss Annie Clark's latest venture in Actor. She may have gotten her start touring as the guitarist for the Polyphonic Spree and for Sufjan Stevens’ band among others, but her independence is now all her own. Performing under the moniker St. Vincent, Clark's whimsical fairy tale feel combined with harsh and dominating lyrics make for a memorable and thought-provoking album.

-Julie Dyer

Amanda Blank
I Love You
BUY

MP3: FREE

Looking for Lady Sov. meets MIA meets this years Santigold? Look no further than this high energy, dance friendly smart-lipped electronic based album. You may need a check up if this album doesn't thrill your soul.

-Tania Katherine

Brand New
Daisy
BUY

Somtimes bands evolve. No band makes that statement more true than Brand New. The band is always evolving into something...well, Brand New. A more raw, screaming good time Daisy brings one of the most aggressive albums of the year to your stereo.

-Tania Katherine

Ludow Lions
No Stories

MP3: FREE (Whole album is free. We recommend buying!)

I judge those who don't like Ludlow Lions as they clearly do not have ears. The album brings rock that you can enjoy back to the table. Turn the knob down on Modest Mouse, add your favorite lyricist and a beer and you'll see why this reviewer's album of the year deserves nothing less than respect.

-Tania Katherine

Gossip
Music for Men
BUY

Though this is the Gossip's fourth studio album, fat fashion icon Beth Ditto's voice has never been captured better. Music for Men is an evolution of the band's aesthetic, maybe not as punk and raw as we've had from them but there's no turning back from this album, which should make Ditto and the Gossip a household name for what they're really, really awesome at: danceable electro-rock.

-Bernadette Harris

Girls
Album
BUY

San Francisco natives Girls are so fuckin' cool, and Album is top of the top for indie pop in 2009. Quirkiness abounds through this album, and lead singer Christopher Owen's chameleon-like vocals make the band seem like an Arcade Fire-numbered host of characters. Check out the simple and indulgent "Lust for Life," not to be confused with your dad's Iggy Pop.

-Bernadette Harris

Hope Sandoval and the Warm Inventions
Through the Devil Softly
BUY

MP3: FREE

She's the reigning queen of somber Goth-folk and I'll be damned if I didn't fall in love with every melancholy moment on her second full-blown solo album.

-Carnie Fulton

Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros
Up From Below
BUY

MP3: FREE

With former Ima Robot leader, Alex Ebert, as the group's centerpiece, this 11-piece hippie-folk collective from L.A. blindsides the indie community with a free-flowing, vibrant, and whimsical West Coast-influenced album that held firm as the cornerstone of my summer listening.

-Carnie Fulton

The Flaming Lips
Embryonic
BUY

In a welcome 180 degree reversal from their previous album, The Flaming Lips spike the well and reconnect with their Oklahoma City roots on this sprawling double-disc trip. Embryonic is a tightly-packed labor of love, full of intricate splashes of psychedelia, organic effects, and Wayne Coyne's signature overtures that amplifies the surreal and represses the ordinary.

-Carnie Fulton

M. Ward
Hold Time
BUY

MP3: FREE

This may not be the most challenging record of 2009, but it’s difficult to overlook a body of work this satisfying from beginning to end. See "Rave On" for one of the best Buddy Holly covers ever.

-Carnie Fulton

Dan Auerbach
Keep It Hid
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Dan Auerbach sheds his Black Keys' partner and surprisingly delivers the most full body blues album of the year. The album's unruliness comes from a heady dose of reverb, distortion, and grit; not fully captured since Muddy Waters' signature '68 release, Electric Mud.

-Carnie Fulton

Monsters of Folk album a one-off?

Wed, 23 Dec 2009 00:00:00 EST
Despite the success of Monsters of Folk, don't expect a follow up album, kids. Forget what you've heard on Twitter, the band/supergroup is not working on a new album. P.S. Conor Oberst does NOT have a Twitter account, says Oberst's publicist. Considering they are Monsters of Folk, the group all have their individual projects to focus on: Jim James just launched his own record label, and M. Ward's second album with Zooey Deschanel as She & Him drops March 23.

Comic book artist makes over '80s movie album covers

Wed, 23 Dec 2009 00:00:00 EST
Here's a bit of fun for your weekend, thanks to comic book artist Cliff Chiang. The man who's known for drawing Wonder Woman and Batman has taken some of our absolutely favorite '80s movies (Breakfast Club and Purple Rain, among others), and re-imagined the soundtracks' album covers with comic book heroes in starring roles. Elektra on the cover of Flashdance, anyone? And we can't help but love everyone's favorite sidekick Robin in the super-emo role of Ally Sheedy from Breakfast Club!

Billy Corgan launches record label

Tue, 22 Dec 2009 00:00:00 EST
Billy Corgan might have jumped the shark. Let's face it, he's embraced pop in one big way: he's rumored to be "taking it slow" with Jessica Simpson.

Despite being about five years too late with that train, Corgan's attempting to stay relevant by launching a new, yet unnamed record label. He's already signed The Germs, a legendary hardcore band out of L.A. as well a host of other odd rockers like Electric Prunes and the Strawberry Alarm Clock, as well as Fancy Space People.

The best Disgustaches of 2009

Tue, 22 Dec 2009 00:00:00 EST
Let’s face it, the mustache has come a long way since your great-grandfather's fu manchu. In 2009 we saw not only the revival of the beard, but also a few trend setting musicians who threw their razors out the tour van window and just said “no” to shaving.

A quick Google search will result in everything from Pitchfork's Top Albums of the Decade to your mom's favorite workout tunes of 2009, however, there seems to be one list that is missing in the blogosphere...the best mustaches of '09. So as the year unwinds and we celebrate the best of the best, we would like to praise the musicians who made lip ticklers both socially acceptable and even enviable, after all, not just anyone can pull off a bristly mustache like Jesse Hughes.

Over time, musicians have carefully perfected the art of grooming and there is unarguably a correlation between artists featured on Stereogum playlists and facial hair. No longer just for Western outlaws and policemen, the mustache is slightly easier to maintain than a beard and says “I’m in a band” just as obviously as a pair of Ray Ban sunglasses or a Fedora hat. It’s the free accessory that guarantees comments on your Facebook profile picture and a girlfriend who’s a “dead-ringer” for Zooey Deschanel.

In honor of facial profiling, from perfectly clipped to unkempt, we've narrowed down the top 10 mustaches of 2009. While there are varying degrees of mustache epic-ness, each of these men deserve more than a high five for their unwavering dedication to their image and help with preserving a timeless fad. Their push brooms serve as inspiration for future mustache growers everywhere and give us faith that the mustache will outlive any facial hair trend.

(Oh, and while we’re at it, here’s a round of applause for the wives and girlfriends who have to kiss these faces and undergo Microdermabrasion daily).

And without further ado...

Lee Czur - Immigrant

fun.

Jack White - The Dead Weather, White Stripes

Eugene Hutz - Gogol Bordello

Jesse Hughes - Eagles of Death Metal

Lemmy Kilmister - Motorhead

Tuvoc Lazar - The Girraffes

Gaspard Auge - Justice

Serj Tankian

This is Honus Honus of the band, Man Man.

Marilyn Manson pops the question to actress girlfriend

Tue, 22 Dec 2009 00:00:00 EST
Despite only being back together for a month, shock rocker Marilyn Manson is ready to settle with actress Evan Rachel Wood. Manson proposed to Wood at a concert in Paris Jan. 5, which happened to be Manson's 41st birthday.

Manson and Wood had a pretty acrimonious break-up, with Manson publicly fantasizing about bashing in Wood's skull. Yea... so romantical. We can see why she rushed back.

VIDEO: Silver Swans A-Swimming

Mon, 21 Dec 2009 00:00:00 EST
Here's a little holiday treat for you courtesy of our resident video guru - Eugenia Loli-Queru and Silver Swans. The much hyped, electro-pop duo comprised of - Ann Yu (LoveLikeFire) and producer Jon Waters - has quickly become the frontrunner for Bay Area bands to watch in 2010. We sat them down in the iconic-ly hipster-centric Dolores Park for a little wintertime Q&A. It turns out the Silver Swans' sound (how's that for alliteration?) is the perfect background music for random shots of hyperactive dogs and lazy hipsters. There's also a guest appearance by a certain local label owner/photographer extraordinaire and a special holiday shout out.

Silver Swans are releasing Realize the Ghost (Tricycle Records ) on January 28th at the Cafe Du Nord alongside The Frail and Jonesin.

Bow Wow tweets while drunk driving?

Mon, 21 Dec 2009 00:00:00 EST
Bow Wow, formerly of Lil' fame, was kind enough to keep us in the loop of what he was doing for his New Year's Eve via his Twitter. You know, letting the kids live vicariously and all. He tweeted the following: "Face numb im whippin the lambo. Tipsy as fuck. Just left the @livmiami Im fucked up!!! Ohhhh damn. Y i drive the lambo. Chris (Brown) might have to drive after next spot."

It was deleted afterward, of course, and replaced with this message on the first: "Apologize for that tweet. it was stupid and immature. not a way i want to kick my #2010 year off. i got too much good stuff lined up. my bad."

New tuneage from The Knux, Beck + Gainsbourg

Mon, 21 Dec 2009 00:00:00 EST
Welcome to 2010, Owl-ers! Aren't you ready for some hot new tunes to ring in your new year rock star style?

The Knux, one of hip hop's most intriguing indie duos, recently posted a link for their current EP titled "F*ck You" on their Twitter. (This isn't a hint, kids. We here at The Owl really do love you!) We've dug this Big Easy duo since they blasted through San Fran opening for Q-Tip at the Mezzanine, and their foul mouths just made the Knux all the more endearing.

Also, Beck and Charlotte Gainsbourg have teamed up for this fantastically absurd music video for "Heaven Can Wait". It's the first single from Gainsbourg's LP IRM, which was produced by Beck, out Jan. 26. Beck is sporting a super-cute new haircut, and there's a dinosaur in a tub with a bobbed wig. Yeah, pretty Fear and Loathing...

Avenged Sevenfold drummer dead at 28

Fri, 18 Dec 2009 00:00:00 EST
Jimmy Sullivan, drummer for rockers Avenged Sevenfold, was found dead last week in his Orange County, Ca. home. He was 28.

Known as "The Rev", Sullivan (pictured right) was not only a drummer, but also a backup vocalist and sometime songwriter. The band recently wrapped up a tour of European music festivals back in August. Officials say that his death looks like natural causes, but that the investigation is still open.

The band posted a statement on their website: "It is with great sadness and heavy hearts that we tell you of the passing today of Jimmy 'The Rev' Sullivan. Jimmy was not only one of the world's best drummers, but more importantly he was our best friend and brother. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Jimmy's family and we hope that you will respect their privacy during this difficult time. Jimmy you are forever in our hearts."

Soundgarden reuniting!

Fri, 18 Dec 2009 00:00:00 EST
Chris Cornell rang in 2010 with some of the best news ever for nostalgic grunge rock lovers: Cornell took to his Twitter to say that Soundgarden is reuniting.

Though the Seattle-based band dismantled twelve years ago due to internal strife, Cornell said, "The 12 year break is over & school is back in session. Knights of the Soundtable ride again!" Soundgarden is looking into the festival circuit for this summer, and we're stoked to see this phenomenal band putting the dramas aside for the sake of the music!

Guitarist leaving Red Hot Chili Peppers

Thu, 17 Dec 2009 00:00:00 EST
After sixteen years of making fantastic music with the Red Hot Chili Peppers, John Frusciante is officially quitting the band.

Frusciante confirmed the news himself on his website, and if the smiley emoticon he added to the end is any indication, he doesn't harbor any ill feelings: "When I quit the band, over a year ago, we were on an indefinite hiatus. There was no drama or anger involved, and the other guys were very understanding. They are supportive of my doing whatever makes me happy and that goes both ways.

To put it simply, my musical interests have led me in a different direction. Upon rejoining, and throughout my time in the band, I was very excited about exploring the musical possibilities inherent in a rock band, and doing so with those people in particular. A couple of years ago, I began to feel that same excitement again, but this time it was about making a different kind of music, alone, and being my own engineer."

Lil Wayne to tour with Young Money

Thu, 17 Dec 2009 00:00:00 EST
Before Lil Wayne heads to prison for gun charges, he and Young Money will tour the U.S. They're hitting the road again after a successful tour for Young Money Presents: The America's Most Wanted Music Festival this past summer, and will hit stages from Texas to California through the middle of January.

According to their rep, Weezy and his Young Money camp will be hitting the following locations:

12/17 - Hidalgo, TX @ Dodge Arena
12/18 - Laredo, TX @ Laredo Entertainment Center
12/20 - Corpus Christi, TX @ American Bank Center
12/26 - Atlanta, GA @ Philips Arena
12/28 - New Orleans, LA @ New Orleans Arena
12/31 - San Diego, CA @ San Diego Arena
1/1 - El Paso, TX @ Don Haskins Arena
1/2 - Tucson, AZ @ Tucson Convention Center
1/5 - Beaumont, TX @ Ford Park Arena
1/6 - Austin, TX @ Travis County Expo
1/7 - Allen, TX @ Allen Events Center
1/8 - Lafayette, LA @ Cajun Dome
1/9 - Little Rock, AR @ Alltell Arena
1/10 - Southaven, MS @ Desoto Civic Center

Kimya Dawson to release debut album with The Bundles

Wed, 16 Dec 2009 00:00:00 EST
Singer-songwriter Kimya Dawson, known for her work with the Moldy Peaches and her soundtrack work on the hit indie film Juno, is releasing a new album with her band the Bundles.

Though they've been together since 2001, the Bundles have recorded pretty infrequently, so a lot of folks have been looking forward to their self-titled album. The album drops March 9. The Bundles are composed of Dawson, Jeffrey Lewis, Karl Blau, Anders Griffen and Jack Lewis.

Tons of tuneage in 2010!

Wed, 16 Dec 2009 00:00:00 EST
Some of our favorite artists are heading back to the studios to get new music to us for the new year! Punk legends Bad Religion (pictured) will start recording in April, they confirmed on their fan page. Though they only have a few tracks currently written, they anticipate the album dropping in the fall.

Meanwhile Oasis is going on with the show despite departure of brother Noel Gallagher. And know that a new record, which they're aiming to release in July, should be the Oasis we've known and loved, sans the drama. "It ain't a new direction," Liam Gallagher said in an interview with Virgin Radio Italy. "We're not making reggae music or rap music. It might have a bit more energy and be fresher. It's not going to be that different."

Rufus Wainwright should be releasing All Days Are Nights: Songs for Lulu this spring, his first album since 2007.

The Morning Benders Sign to Rough Trade Records

Tue, 15 Dec 2009 00:00:00 EST
Rumors about where The Morning Benders would sign have circulated industry mouths like hallway whisperings about who would get to shag the popular girl on prom night. Well, Rough Trade Records is the lucky label to bag our Berkeley beloveds. The boys will release their sophomore effort, Big Echo on March 9th, then embark on a two-month cross-country head-lining tour. The album was produced by lead singer Christopher Chu and Grizzly Bear's bass player Chris Taylor.

Fresh out the inbox: Semi-Precious Weapons + Or, The Whale

Tue, 15 Dec 2009 00:00:00 EST
Semi-Precious Weapons

This New York band has been super-busy opening for Lady Gaga, who just finished up a two-show run at the Bill Graham Civic Center, but they're giving San Francisco a little bit more of themselves. Semi-Precious Weapons will be performing at Red Devil Lounge TONIGHT (Tues. Dec. 15) for the bargain-basement price of $8. Local faves Oona will be opening for the band, who are gaining a reputation for their glam rock on-stage antics. Vogue describes them as "unashamedly crass." No promises of if the lady herself will make an appearance.

Or, The Whale

Cute country rockers and San Francisco locals Or, The Whale have just released a new video for "Rusty Gold" from their self-titled album, which was released in September. The video, not quite safe for work, has a bit of a True Blood vibe, if True Blood had more of a Sam Merlotte focus than bitey vampires. But really, the video is simply beautiful.

Catch the band this Saturday Dec. 19 at Great American Music Hall.

New Releases Tuesday, Dec. 15

Tue, 15 Dec 2009 00:00:00 EST
You might still remember what it's like to look forward to Tuesdays as the Official Day of the Week when new albums, EPs, 7 inches, et. al. were (and still are) released to the world. It's completely understandable if you don't - after all, the digital age of music has progressed so rapidly that the artists themselves can barely keep up, let alone the average audience of music consumers. Well, here at The Owl Mag we still have a soft spot for the possession of the physical music (CD, LP, and whatever happened to 8-track tapes?), which is why we continue to publish album reviews in addition to mp3s, videos, and other such one-trick media.

* Alicia Keys The Element of Freedom
Mary J. Blige Stronger with Each Tear
Robin Thicke Sex Therapy
Mudvayne Mudvayne
Animal Collective Fall Be Kind
James Brown Singles 8: 1972-1973
Chicane The Best of Chicane
Elis Catharsis
Lady Gaga The Fame Monster (Special Edition)
George Lopez Tall, Dark & Chicano
Julian Lennon, James Scott Cook Lucy
George Michael December Song
Donny Osmond Definitive Collection
Pet Shop Boys Christmas
Phil Vassar Traveling Circus
The Who Greatest Hits
Young Money We Are Young Money

* The Owl recommends.

Kid Cudi exits 'Monster' tour

Mon, 14 Dec 2009 00:00:00 EST
Lady Gaga can't seem to hold on to her tour-mates. First Kanye West backs out of what could have been the most epic tour ever — well, it was at least hotly anticipated — for "Fame Kills". Now Kid Cudi has dropped out of the "Monster" tour a third of the way through after he lost it on stage and punched a concertgoer in Vancouver. Of course, that's not the official reason for Kid Cudi's disappearance from the roster, but it's an awful big coincidence. Kid Cudi cites a need for work-life balance as the reason for his exit: he said in a statement to MTV that he needed to "balance his schedule surrounding the recording of his next album and acting commitments."

The Cardinals' bassist dies

Mon, 14 Dec 2009 00:00:00 EST
Chris Feinstein, bassist for The Cardinals (Ryan Adams' former band), passed away earlier this week at the age of 42. Details of his passing remain a mystery, but he was found in his home in New York City.

A member of The Cardinals since 2006, Feinstein also wrote songs for Santigold's debut album and played alongside The Strokes' Albert Hammond, Jr.

A statement on Lost Highway's website read, "It is with great sadness to report that Cardinals bassist/vocalist/collaborator Chris Feinstein (Spacewolf) has recently passed away. He was an integral member of Ryan Adams & The Cardinals and will be deeply missed by all of us here at Lost Highway and throughout the entire music community."

Check out Brooklyn Vegan for a fantastic tribute to Feinstein.

T.I. may be out of jail in a month

Fri, 11 Dec 2009 00:00:00 EST
There's something to be said about good behavior. Atlanta rapper T.I. may be released to a halfway house as early as January. T.I., who began a 366-day prison sentence, pleaded guilty this past March to attempting to receive illegally purchased weapons, which had been purchased from undercover officers.

"If his full-term release date is in March, it's not uncommon for an individual to be released to a halfway house to serve out the last portion of their federal sentence," Bureau of Prisons spokesperson Edmond Ross told MTV News. According to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, it's also possible that T.I. may spend the last month of his sentence on home confinement.

Runaways biopic to debut at Sundance

Fri, 11 Dec 2009 00:00:00 EST
Joan Jett fans, mark your calendars:The Runaways biopic will premiere at Sundance in 2010. For those of us that won't be able to make it to Utah, the film will have a U.S. release date of March 10.

For those of us antsy to see the talents of Kristen Stewart as Joan Jett — skills that got the Joan Jett-badass seal of approval — get a look here at the preview tomorrow morning. The film centers around Joan Jett and Cherry Currie's relationship. Starlet Dakota Fanning plays Currie.