Here’s a sentence you probably thought you’d never hear - Yeasayer and Cyndi Lauper have something in common.

They both just wanna have fun.

Odd Blood, the latest release from Brooklyn’s Yeasayer, is a complete departure from their previous record. Gone are most of the qualities that made the group such an indie hit.

Their weird, ambient textures? Gone. The spacey feeling of songs like “2080″ and “Sunrise”? Buh-bye. That whole world music vibe? See ya.

But while the band may have lost some of what made them unique, it’s what they’ve gained that makes them even more memorable. The band honed its songwriting skills, fell in love with pop music, and created one of the best albums of the year.

The band’s new lease on life is immediately noticeable on “Ampling Alp.” The song’s cheerful, 80’s inspired feel gives way to the surprisingly upbeat lyrics, “Stick up for yourself, son/Never mind what anybody else done.”

Odd Blood reaches its peak on “O.N.E.” The track is songwriting mastery – it weaves in a stream-of-consciousness fashion, feeling like an outer space disco track.
But the album suffers from maddening inconsistency. While the album has a handful of stellar tracks, about half the album falls flat. Songs like “Strange Reunions” and “Love Me Girl” feel unfinished and half-hearted.

Still, Odd Blood is a definite must for anyone in the mood to get down with a funky fresh dance jam.

Sorry. Seems like my article, much like Odd Blood, is trying a bit too hard.

Standout Tracks: “O.N.E.” and “Madder Red”
Rating: 3.5 out of 5
Biggest Strength: A funky and weird party vibe
Biggest Weakness: The album’s inconsistency hurts the listening experience.
The Final Word: For those about to dance, Odd Blood is a must. But you might want to skip a few tracks.

But which songs do you listen to? Fear not! Your friendly neighborhood Blog in Lo-Fi ishere to help. Here are our top relaxing songs:

3. “Be Quiet and Drive (Far Away) (acoustic)” by Deftones

California alt-rockers Deftones have made a career out of being badasses. Their early videos were all about mayhem and hair-splitting, blood-curdling gutteral screams. But on their B-Sides and Rarities album, the band showed a unique, sensitive side. On the track, singer Chino Moreno’s vocals are at a near whisper and the song, which in its original arrangement is a headbanger’s classic, sounds delicate and sensitive.

2. “Rosyln” by Bon Iver & St. Vincent

Much to the dismay of indie music fans and Twilight haters alike, the soundtrack accompanying the latest tween vampire movie New Moon was actually pretty good. The soundtrack featured original songs from Radiohead’s Thom Yorke, Black Rebel Motorcycle Club, and Grizzly Bear, among others. But the standout track from the album is “Rosyln,” a song by lo-fi god Bon Iver with the help of Brooklyn’s St. Vincent. The song’s hushed atmosphere and echoing vocals make for a perfect nighttime song.

1. “Hoppípolla” by We Are Scientists

In their cover of Sigur Rós’ “Hoppípolla,” the band tones down the original version’s grandiose feel in favor of a quieter acoustic number. We Are Scientists keeps the song in its original Icelandic translation, but the song retains its original power. This is impressive, as most listening to this song will have the slightest idea what the song is about (for those who are interested, “Hoppípolla” translates to “Hopping in Puddles.)

Without further ado, here are my five favorite tracks of 2009:

5. “Airport Surroundings” by Loney Dear

Loney Dear’s Dear John was one of the best records of the year. It’s lush, beautiful composition made it a low-fi record for the ages, and “Airport Surroundings” was its best song. The upbeat, almost electronic drums ticked along with singer Emil Svanängen’s heartfelt vocals. Hopefully this record will introduce his music to the States.

4. “Nothing to Worry About” by Peter Bjorn & John

What do you get when you mix a quasi-futuristic hook, dancing Japanese bikers and a downright fun song? Why, PB&J’s “Nothing to Worry About,” of course.

The song is hooky from start to finish, and bristles with a unique European swagger. I dare you not to dance along. No really, I do.

3. “Sleepyhead” by Passion Pit

Okay, so it didn’t technically come out in 2009. Sue me. The majority of the world hadn’t heard this unbelievably catchy tune until the summer, and it’s even made it into a Blackberry commercial. The song is fun and upbeat, and is the best song on an album filled with great cuts.

2. “Sink” by Brand New

Quite the departure from the other songs on the list, Brand New’s “Sink” is one of the strongest songs on their latest album, Daisy. Its sinister opening gives way to singer Jesse Lacey’s howling vocals and screaming guitar lines. If you like to rock–and rock hard–this song is a must.

1. “Panic Switch” by Silversun Pickups

Silversun Pickups have, in my humble opinion, written one of the best songs of the decade with “Panic Switch.” It’s been stuck in my head nonstop since June, and with good reason. The ambiguous vocals mix perfectly with the fuzz-drenched bass, rhythmic drums and etherial keyboards to make what is, without question, the best rock song of the year.

…But it sure seems like one.

This week, I’ll be driving with friends to the National in Richmond to see the twice aforementioned Brand New.

I have seen the once before–nearly a year ago, in fact. That time was in Virginia Beach, at the Norva. The Norva is one of my favorite places to see live music, but the drive was murder. A six hour (round trip) drive was too much, and I wasn’t able to enjoy the show. But this time, we’re shaving two hours off the drive and getting there nice and early – with time to recharge and get food.

Brand New will be playing with Thrice, who I saw with the band last time. I like them both, so it’s definitely worth the meager $25 I’m paying.

At the last show, I had to leave the crowd after a group of us fell in the pit, injuring someone. She had to be taken out of the club. The band actually stopped playing and told the audience that if they didn’t calm down they’d play an acoustic show. The crowd didn’t stop, and the band kept playing. Something had to give, so I got out and acted like “that guy” by standing by the bar with my arms crossed.

That definitely won’t be happening this time.

Hopefully I’ll have pictures to post from the show.

Until then,
P.

Brand New returns with "Daisy"

Brand New has spent the better part of their career challenging listeners. Like Pearl Jam before them, the Long Island quintuplet has never stayed satisfied, with legions of fans more than willing to follow along. With Daisy, Brand New has created one of their best and most challenging albums.

Brand New has never been a band to stay in one musical head space for very long. Each album sounds vastly different than its predecessor and Daisy is no exception. The whining pop punk of Your Favorite Weapon now a distant memory, Brand New continues to experiment with new sounds and textures.

Daisy is, in a word, dense. Much like the band’s last release, 2006s The Devil and God are Raging Inside Me, this new album is difficult to approach. In truth, it’s a very coarse record that feels almost grimy at first listen. But in true Brand New style, the patient listener is rewarded with an album that is solid from start to finish.

Anger and frustration have always been central to the mystique of Brand New, and that doesn’t change on Daisy. The lead single, “At the Bottom,” still broods and explodes like so many of the band’s trademark tunes. This time around, though, Brand New appears to have taken some cues from the grunge bands of years past. Whining guitars and dirty drums mix together to create a sound that feels like the bastard child of Modest Mouse’ The Moon & Antarctica and Radiohead’s OK Computer.

"Daisy" cover art

Songs like “Be Gone,” with its staccato vocal treatment and the twists and turns of “Bought a Bride” force the listener to pay attention. This kind of inventiveness and intensity might have turned off a legion of Brand New fans, but it has rightfully earned them the title of “America’s Radiohead.” Jesse Lacey, lead singer, said the band wrote the album for the stage instead of the studio. This conscious decision makes the album feel awkward at some points, but isn’t music supposed to be seen live anyway?

Daisy’s weakest link is the lyrics. Lacey largely gave up writing duties for this album and it shows. The sometimes vague and mostly brilliant lyrics are gone, replaced with a more upfront approach. Themes of closure mark the album as the band questions it’s future.

After some of the great lines of albums past, hearing Lacey croon “The champ goes down like a clown in the second round” on “Bed” is a huge letdown. This isn’t to say there aren’t a generous helping of catchy hooks. But Brand New is capable of better.

Matching the brilliant intensity of their last album was always going to be difficult, but the boys of Brand New have created a worthy successor. True to form, the album feels off-putting at first, but each subsequent spin reveals something new to love. Is Daisy Brand New’s best album? Probably not. Is it one of the best albums of the year? Absolutely.

The kings of alternative have raised the bar again. Perhaps no one can say it better than Lacey did on “Degausser” from The Devil and God…: “No matter what they say, I am still the king.”

Reign on, Brand New. Reign on.

Standout Tracks: “At the Bottom” and “Bought a Bride”
Rating: 4 out of 5
Biggest Strength: It has the kind of intensity and brooding sensitivity the band has made its trademark.
Biggest Weakness: The lyrical content leaves a lot to be desired.
The Final Word: While it might not be Brand New’s best work, it’s a great to see a band keep pushing itself and creating quality music.

Article property of GMU’s Broadside; Music and images property of Brand New.

Son Volt returns with their latest album, American Central Dust.

Happy Mondy to everyone! I hope your weekends were all lovely.

The first Tuesday of July brings us new releases from heavyweights like Son Volt and Metric, as well as the highly-anticipated third album from stellastarr*.

Releases for July 7th
Billy Boy On Poison – Drama Junkie Queen
All Time Low – Nothing Personal
stellastarr* – Civilized
Drive-By Truckers – Live From Austin Texas
The Low Anthem – Oh My God Charlie Darwin
Son Volt – American Central Dust
Dr. Dog – Don’t Stop (Loving Me Now)
Metric – Fantasies
The Black Keys – The Big Come Up

For today’s post, I’ve posted five music-related videos I think you’ll like. Ready?

Video #1: “Slow Burning Crimes” by East Hundred

Philadelphia’s East Hundred are primed to explode. Their newest release, Passenger is an incredible slice of indie pop. Their entire album can be streamed on their website, which even includes a free download of this song!

Video #2: “Percussion Gun” by White Rabbits

Dual-drummer wielding indie rockers White Rabbits released their latest effort, It’s Frightening, earlier this summer. If you get a chance, check them out live. Trust me, they rock.

Video #3: “Flume” by Bon Iver

This is a live rendition of “Flume” performed for Myspace last year. Bon Iver is, in my humble opinion, one of the best acts out right now. Most bands can’t pull of the kind of raw emotion with a full band that Bon Iver does with a stripped down group. This is definitely worth your time.

Video #4: “What Is Love?” Cover by Diane Birch

I’m a sucker for cheezey dance songs. But cheezey dance songs covered by the amazing up-and-comer Diane Birch? Well now, you have my attention. And hopefully this will give her yours, too.

Video #5: “Rap Chop” Remix by DJ Steve Porter

What, because I run a blog I have to be serious all the time? There really aren’t any words to describe this, you should just watch and enjoy.

Passion Pit

Talk about “the power of love.”

Passion Pit’s debut EP, Chunk of Change, was originally recorded in 2008 by singer and keyboardist Michael Angelakos as a Valentine’s Day gift for his girlfriend. The album was an underground hit in the band’s native Boston. The strength of the single “Sleepyhead” put in rotation by music heavyweights like MTV and BBC. As a result of touring with indie giants like Death Cab for Cutie (and, of course, thanks to quality music,) Passion Pit was signed to Columbia Records shortly after their EP’s release. Their first full-length album, Manners, was released in May.

At its core, Manners is pure summer fun. The band takes its cues from bands famous in the decade that raised them. Keyboards abound on the record, creating a sparkling glow that runs through the duration of the album. The drums thump along through the keyboard sheen, while Angelakos’ falsetto squeals over the din. Despite its ultra-shiny veneer, Passion Pit is the thinking person’s dance music; Angelakos lyrics are deceptively deep and filled with the kind of doubt and angst that will catch the astute listener off guard.

The standout on the album is easily “Sleepyhead,” the famous track from the band’s previous EP. It is a prime example of the band using their sound the right way: it combines equal parts ear-candy flash and authentic songwriting prowess. Passion Pit throws in a few surprises along the way: several of the songs, like “Let Your Love Grow Tall,” feature an elementary school choir. It’s this kind of ingenuity that makes Manners such a surprise—it’s got the funk, but it’s also got the heart.

While the album is no doubt party music, it doesn’t stand up as well when the lights come up. The vocal style tends to wear thin as the album progresses, and for all its strengths, Manners is a difficult album to put on repeat. Still, the band rocks like its been doing this since the 80s, and has a ton of fun while doing it.

Passion Pit is a band that wants you to want to dance. While the music is keyboard-heavy, it isn’t weighed down by its own nostalgia. The group has taken the best of a played-out genre and made it feel new again.

Standout Tracks: “Sleepyhead” and “The Reeling”
Rating: 3.5 out of 5
Biggest Strength: It’s a damn good party album.
Biggest Weakness: The party’s gotta end some time.
The Final Word: An album that does fun the right way – with equal parts style and sophistication.

In order to provide a better, more all-encompassing blog experience, I have decided to branch out to more than just album reviews. That’s right, I am going all out for you, my lovely reader(s).

Here’s the rundown:

New Music Monday

Most sites will give you a list of the week’s new albums on Tuesday–the same day they come out. Forget that. I’ll give ‘em to you a day early. ‘Cause I love ya.

NMM will give you a list of artists worth checking out, as well as albums you won’t want to miss.

Tour Date Tuesday

The most important aspect of a band is their live show. Sure, you can YouTube their performance. But come on, seeing a band live is so much more fun! Every Tuesday I’ll give you a list of some of the best shows around. From the big bands playing around the corner to hidden gems, click it here every Tuesday for the skinny on some awesome shows.

Album Review Thursday

Sorry, no fun alliteration here. Just a review of an album worth your while. Breakthrough artists, big bands, or regional artists… it doesn’t matter! If it’s good, I’ll let you know.

Saturday’s Videos of the Week

After a break on Friday, I’m back to bring you some of the best music-related videos on the web. If you can’t make it to a show, I do my best to find some great videos to make you feel like you were there.

Local Music Sunday

Every band has to start somewhere! On Sunday’s, I’ll compile a list of the new bands you should know about.

And there you have it. I hope everyone likes the new format. As things progress, I’ll make changes where necessary. Until then, enjoy!

P.

Silversun Pickups bring the noise with Swoon.

Sophomore albums are tricky. So often a band hits the ground running with its first album and leaves fans scratching their heads on the second. Avoiding this is tricky; in a way it weeds the good bands from the pack. For their second full-length album, Silver Lake, California’s Silversun Pickups prove they are one that deserves to stick around.

The Pickups released its first EP, Pikul, in 2005, followed the next year by their first LP, Carnavas. The album was an indie success, reaching number one on the Billboard Heatseekers chart. It produced two top-ten singles on the modern rock charts with “Lazy Eye” and “Well Thought Out Twinkles,” and the video for the single “Little Lover’s So Polite” was directed by actor-turned-director-turned-rapper Joaquin Phoenix.

For their follow-up, the band did not disappoint. Instead of resting on the laurels (albeit underground laurels,) the band left the poppier side of shoegaze and got bigger and badder. Nowhere is this more evident than on the first single, “Panic Switch.” The track starts with frontman Brian Aubert’s fuzz-soaked guitar riff, exploding into a full-band audio assault. Driving bass meets with churning drums, and as the song reaches its climax, Aubert pulls his vocals into a near whisper, asking, “When you see yourself in a crowded room/Do your fingers itch?/Are you pistol-whipped?”

The album’s heavier songs are certainly its strong point, but that isn’t to say that the album is all brawn. “Growing Old Is Getting Old” begins with a simple bass line accented by drums and ethereal keys. As Aubert gently croons, guitar and keyboard lines zoom by like static on a wire as Aubert contemplates death: “Maybe we’re sealed in silence/Maybe we feel the guidance/Maybe your own devices/Will keep you afraid and cold.”

However, the album falls off at the halfway point. Songs like “Draining” and “Catch and Release” are a letdown after the previous barrage of noise and feel almost like an afterthought. The Pickups attempt to pick it up (pun intended) with “Sort Of,” but instead of the triumphant end the album deserves, Swoon closes with a sigh. Still, the front end of this record is strong enough to make the less memorable second half seem unimportant—no small feat.

It’s not easy to make noise a true art form, but the Pickups have done it well with this record. While your grandma will probably tell you to “turn that racket down,” Swoon will be your best friend all summer. After all, isn’t that what rock n’ roll is all about?

Standout Tracks: “Panic Switch” and “Growing Old is Getting Old”
Rating: 4 out of 5
Biggest Strength: Powerful instrumentation complimented by ethereal vocals.
Biggest Weakness: The second half of the album fails to match the intensity of the first.
The Final Word: Perhaps one of the best albums of the year, Swoon is a hard-rocking, thought-provoking album.