It's Almost Here!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

After watching this video I am somehow even more infatuated with Luke from the Born Ruffians. I didn't think that was possible. His voice is amazing, he looks way too cool for school, and the song (Oh Man) is the first taste of their upcoming album which I have been waiting for since March when I first discovered these guys. I'm hoping that there is much more to come so stay tuned!

Here Comes the Music

Here's a mellow tune to start the week off right...



Download it: Jack Johnson - "Rodeo Clowns"

Over the Pond

You've probably heard "1901" featured in the new Cadillac commercial, but Phoenix is definitely not a one hit wonder in my book. These French rockers have come a long way from their original roots in 1996 and even though the band has undergone a few changes, they are stronger than ever on their 2009 album, Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix. The sound is dreamy and the vocals remind me vaguely of Empire of the Sun (who I believe is one of the best synthpop groups of our time), but Phoenix might have the upper hand due to their catchy and ironic lyrics. Promise me you'll check out their other great songs...it's in your best interest.

Download it: "Girlfriend" / "Liztomania" / "Fences" / "Rome" / "Countdown (Sick for the Big Sun)"

Friday - Song of the Day

"sing," theresa says. "sing happy things"
"sing," theresa says if i do everything
one day a man will spring worth loving

This song is absolutely beautiful.

Download it: Greg Laswell - "Sing, Theresa Says"

2nd Time Around

White Rabbits / The Walkmen TONIGHT!!!! I was wowed this summer by the White Rabbits' dynamic live show, but now they're moving it to an indoor venue and teaming up with The Walkmen for a show at Lincoln Hall. It's currently sold out, but maybe if you're lucky you could grab a ticket off of Craig's list. Definitely worth the $18 ticket (or marked up price that you might have to pay since you were too lazy to have already bought your ticket!). See you there!

Say Farewell

Sadly, The Honorary Title will be playing their final show on November 20th so I thought it would be appropriate to recommend one of my favorite songs from this particular band for your listening pleasure. No worries though....lead singer, Jarrod Gorbel, has just released a solo album and will be continuing on with his singer/songwriter career. I can still remember when The Honorary Title opened up for the Born Ruffians and Tokyo Police Club earlier this year at the Metro. It still sticks out as one of the best shows of 2009 (or possibly ever) and although Jarrod's band was extremely mellow compared to the rock and roll of the other bands, I was still in awe of his beautiful voice paired with a simple acoustic guitar. Good luck with your solo adventure, Jarrod...wishing you all the best!

Download it: The Honorary Title - "Stay Away"

Flashback

This song is almost as old as I am (think 1983), but something about it seems current....like it could pop up on Pitchfork or Rolling Stone any day now. For the most part though, The Plimsouls' overall sound brings me back to the John Hughes era when movies were ruled by teenagers in teased hair and earrings (the guys at least). I think it's about time to watch "The Breakfast Club" for the 100th time.


Download it: The Plimsouls - "The Oldest Story in the World"

What a Way to End the Week

Basement Jaxx, MSTRKRFT, & Modeselecktor
Congress Theater
8:00pm
TOMORROW!!!!

This will officially be my first show at the Congress so I'm feeling like a teenage boy before my first date at this point...excited, nervous, curious, and hoping for the best. I'll let you know how it goes!