Ready for the Weekend!

Thanks to AnonymousMidwest I was tipped off to this fantastic rock cover of Kid Cudi's "Pursuit of Happiness". Pure genius!

Born Ruffians Show Tonight!!!

9:00pm @ Lincoln Hall
Tickets: $12

If you're not there....you're square! :)

Chuck Can Sing?

He's been holding out on me for all this time?? Chuck star, Zachary Levi, has released his first single (in the form of a duet with Katharine McPhee) and although the music isn't exactly my cup of tea, I still have such an elevated form of respect for this guy. Acting, singing, AND looking adorable (all the time)...what a treat!





Dowload it: Katharine McPhee w/ Zachary Levi - "Terrified"

New Video - The Ghost Inside

Check out the latest video from the Broken Bells. It's one of my favorite songs from their new album and (bonus) it stars Mad Men actress, Christina Hendricks. What a combo!

Song of the Day - Nothing Better

Dear Postal Service,

I'm sorry that I fell in love with you guys in college and haven't given you much props since then, but I'm back...and I'm putting YOU back in the mix.

Download it: The Postal Service - "Nothing Better"

No Way!

Can I just say how excited I am to find out that the Netherfriends are opening for the Born Ruffians at Lincoln Hall in June? I just found out and it doesn't get much better than this.

We Were Promised Jetpacks

These guys hail from Scotland (swoon!) and while they've only been touring and releasing music since 2008 they have made a big impact in such short time. The story of their rise to fame is actually an interesting one. The band cites their friends (Frightened Rabbit) as one of their major influences so imagine their surprise when Fat Cat Records called to sign them up for a record deal. The label execs were searching on MySpace through Frightened Rabbit's friend list and came across this gem of an indie rock band. Boom...they became a big deal!

And the best news...I only have to wait until July 12 when I get to check them out at the Empty Bottle. Totally.AWESOME.

Download it: Quiet Little Voices / Moving Clocks Run Slow / Short Bursts

Song of the Day - Pistol of Fire

I feel the water
Out in the cool grass
Down in the meadows
Under the tree

It's gonna tickle
You're gonna giggle
It's gonna tickle
Pick up her feet

Download it: Kings of Leon - "Pistol of Fire"

Tapping my feet to this until I can head out of work for the weekend...HAPPY FRIDAY!!

Nick's Photos from the Shout Out Louds Show Featured on the Chicagoist ...

Check them out here!

*So proud of my boy! :)

Hidden Little Gem

You always have the highest hopes when it comes to opening acts. You want them to open your eyes (and ears) to a new sound...to something that leaves you clamoring for the door as you leave just so that you can go home and purchase their entire music catalog. Sadly, you are usually faced with an awkward group of musicians that leave you clamoring for the bar in order to avoid 30 minutes of their "ground breaking" music (i.e. music that you will never understand no matter how hard you try).

Not true with the Freelance Whales who opened for the Shout Out Louds at Lincoln Hall this past Monday. They are young, borderline 'too hip for their own good', and man, can they play a mean instrument. I was amazed at the shuffling around that took place on stage as each band member moved from instrument to instrument. There were guitars, there were xylophones, there were waterphones....oh my! Take my word for it...cruise around their website and check out a bit of their music and I think you'll see what I mean.

In the meantime, check out these great photos from the show (courtesy of the always talented Nick G.)...

Stay Tuned

It's been rumored that I may be receiving some pretty sweet photos from the Seedy Seeds/Sugar and Gold show from this past Sunday. Can't wait...because this page definitely needs a little more personality. :)

It's Disco, Baby!

First of all (on a completely unrelated music note), I just have to say how happy I am that it is finally over 70 degrees in the windy city. Gives me hope for sun dresses and drinks outside! :)

Anyhoo.......

The big news of this weekend comes in the form of a modern day disco-pop group called Sugar and Gold. Nick has managed to score a photo pass for their show at the Empty Bottle this Sunday, May 2nd and I'm tagging along for the ride. This band has undying energy (just check out any of their YouTube videos) and I'm looking forward to a rockin' dance party to round out my weekend.

Sunday, May 2nd @ 9:30pm
Sugar and Gold
The Seedy Seeds
Yoko Homo
Tickets: $8

Get out and enjoy this fantastic weather!!!

Do I Win?

This is a great little find that was discovered by Nick, but I think I've beat him to the punch by posting it first. :) We all love The xx, but this cover of their song, "VCR", by The Antlers is amazing.

Download it (for free!): The Antlers - "VCR" (The xx cover)

Is it Bedtime Yet?

This song immediately soothes me. It's beautiful...check it out!

Download it: City and Colour - "Against the Grain"

(Not) New Song - "Fluorescent Adolescent"

I put this song on and can't help but bounce around to its English pop rock beat. It's catchy and you've got to love the fact that the Arctic Monkeys don't take themselves too seriously. You may remember their first US hit, "I Bet You Look Good on the Dancefloor", but since then they have adopted a lighter sound and it has been working for them...for about 7 years now. Check it out if you need a little pick me up!

Download it: Arctic Monkeys - "Fluorescent Adolescent"

Blast from the Past

Out of nowhere I just started humming Superdrag's "Sucked Out". Getting past the fact that I had no idea when I last heard that song, I looked up the video and couldn't believe my eyes when I read that the song was released in 1996. The 90's...wow! Seems so long ago, but if you grew up during that time I hope you can appreciate this post. Bringing an old one (but a good one) back!

Download it: Superdrag - "Sucked Out"

It's a Good Day

It's been 13 months and 100 posts! I've loved every minute of it and I can't wait to celebrate my next 100 posts...whenever they might occur. Thanks for sticking with me and hopefully I can grow this little project into something bigger and better. Wish me luck! :)

Boys & Girls in America

They don't stray from what originally drew me to their music...and that's exactly why I am still in love with The Hold Steady. Every year I anxiously wait for their Chicago show to be announced and I can buy my ticket knowing that I'll probably have one of the best nights of the summer. The promise of warm weather, cold beer, and a great crowd of twenty/thirty somethings shouting along to all of the lyrics is something that dreams are made of. This year will be no different and with the help of a few friendly websites (thanks Pitchfork & Stereogum!) I can get my early fix of The Hold Steady's newest album. Check it out for yourself!

Hurricane J

The Weekenders

It's Lolla Time!!!!

This morning I was greeted with the most delightful email. An email that I wait for all winter long and when it arrives I can't help but share it with anyone who is willing to listen. Yessssss....the Lollapalooza lineup was announced today! In my opinion, it just keeps getting better. Perry Farrel, you have truly outdone yourself this year!

Here are a few of the highlights...

Phoenix
Arcade Fire
The Black Keys
MGMT
Grizzly Bear
Frightened Rabbit
The Strokes
Edward Sharpe & the Magnetic Zeros
Company of Thieves
Cymbals Eat Guitars
Matt & Kim
The xx
The Walkmen
Spoon

*Headliners - Soundgarden / Green Day / Lady Gaga

Now we sit and wait for the 3 day schedule to be released. Let the nail biting begin.

Ears Still Ringing

I'm finally getting back into the swing of things!! After a delicious dinner at Miss Cara's apartment, my boy and I headed over to the Metro to check out the Miike Snow show. We were both anxious and excited for another high energy concert (much like our first experience at the Empty Bottle). Let me tell you...we were not let down! Not only was the music fantastic, but the overall show was much improved. Better light show, more new songs, and a much bigger crowd. Well done guys, well done.

P.S. Nick's iPhone saves the day again...great pic!

Workout Mix for K Lo

I received my first official request for a music mix and I have to admit I was pretty excited. My delightful mother (Hi Mom!) has decided to run a race in Indianapolis and has asked for a running mix that will keep her going. Let's see if this will do the trick...

1) "Imma Be" - Black Eyed Peas
2) "Helicopter" - Bloc Party
3) "Hummingbird" - Born Ruffians
4) "Walking on a Dream" - Empire of the Sun
5) "Sleepyhead" - Passion Pit
6) "Skeleton Boy" - Friendly Fires
7) "Sad Sad City" - Ghostland Observatory
8) "Brooklyn is Burning" - Head Automatica
9) "Bulletproof" - La Roux
10) "Second, Minute or Hour" - Jack Penate
11) "Just Dance" - Lady Gaga & Colby O' Donis
12) "Daylight" - Matt & Kim
13) "Black and Blue" - Miike Snow
14) "I'm Not Gonna Teach Your Boyfriend How to Dance with You" - Black Kids
15) "The Underdog" - Spoon
16) "Sweet Disposition" - The Temper Trap (Great cool down song!)

Good luck, Mom!!! :)

Waiting for June

The Born Ruffian's new album drops on June 1 and I've already pre-ordered my tickets for the Chicago show so there is nothing left to do but wait at this point....or so I thought!

Head over to www.bornruffians.com and click through to the new article that Spin released yesterday. The article contains an exclusive stream to "What to Say". It happens to be the first single off of the new release and it also happens to be a mighty good song. I'm brought back to everything that first made me fall in love with these boys...the catchy beat, the silly lyrics, etc. They're just newbies to the scene that are making a name for themselves in a really big way.

Check it out: Born Ruffians - "What to Say"

I Love Chuck

Yes, it's true that the show is pretty great (Chuck is so nerdy and adorable...how could you not like him?), but the music...well, it's fantastic! I knew that I would form a special friendship with this program when they were featuring music from Bon Iver & Frightened Rabbit in the very first season. It only got better from there...

Season 3 (a few highlights)

Episode 1 - Frightened Rabbit - "Backwards Walk"
Episode 4 - Sam Isaac - "Bears"
Episode 6 - Edward Sharpe - "40 Day Dream"
Episode 7 - Jack Penate - "Let's All Die"
Episode 10 - Frightened Rabbit - "Swim until You Can't See Land"
Episode 11 - Rogue Wave - "Permalight"
Episode 12 - The Temper Trap - "Down River"

Clear your Monday night schedule because you might just have a new favorite...besides HIMYM of course :)

OMG...MGMT

The time is almost here! MGMT will be releasing their sophomore album, Congratulations, on April 13. The best part is that you don't have to wait until mid-April to preview the new album in its entirety. Travel over to www.whoismgmt.com and you can listen to all 9 tracks for FREE!

This release is trippy / psychadelic and it honestly sounds like the soundtrack to a bad 80's movie...but in a good way (if that makes sense). It's upbeat, but a few of the tracks also have the mellow tone that true MGMT fans have loved all along. Have fun with it!


Download it: "Song for Dan Treacy" / "Brian Eno" / "Congratulations"

But Wait....There's More

The Metro is kicking off the spring season strong...

April 16 - Dr. Dog

April 17 - Ok Go

April 30 - Los Campesinos!

May 8 - Frightened Rabbit

Enjoy the warmer weather (if it ever shows up!) and check out some great live shows!

You're Like a Hall and Oates Song...

....you make my dreams come true


HAPPY FRIDAY!!

Under My Bed

Now my eyes are wide open
Now that every thing's been stolen
And I'm here to get it back from you
See I ain't wasting no more time
gotta take back whats mine
What else am i suppose to do

Here I am
with my heart on the floor
and my love out the door
you should be knocking
but there it goes
I got nothing to show for
except pictures i posed for
but i keep them in a box under my bed


Download it: Meiko - "Under My Bed"
*The acoustic version of this song (if you can find it) is amazing!

The Metro is Amazing

April 25th @ The Metro

The White Rabbits

Soooooooooo excited!

P.S. More great show announcements to come...stay tuned!

Dilemma

To buy tickets for the Company of Thieves show tomorrow or not? It may come down to the wire...

Thursday, March 18 @ Lincoln Hall
Company of Thieves
with John Henry & the Engine / Hollus
Tickets: $14
Show Starts at 9:00pm

Either way, I highly recommend that YOU go out and purchase a ticket. Their live show is amazing!

Just a Few Short Weeks

I enjoyed the first time around, but I'm really excited to check out Miike Snow again when they pass through Chicago in April.

Sunday, April 4th @ Metro
Miike Snow
with Delorean & Light Pollution
Tickets: $17 advance / $19 day of show
Show starts at 7pm

I have one question though...will they wear those scary masks again? I guess I'll get to find out sooner than later :)

Happy Friday...indeed!

I could have never anticipated the great news that I just received regarding one of my favorite bands of all time. Not only are the Born Ruffians releasing their new album in a mere 80 days, but they have just announced their 2010 tour dates and Chicago has been blessed with one of these much coveted dates. :) Of course I immediately purchased tickets, but I'm hoping that all of you will do the same. Their energy is contagious and their live performances are outstanding so I can promise that you won't be dissapointed. Here's what you need to know...

Wednesday, June 16th @ Lincoln Hall
Born Ruffians
Young Rival
9pm
Tickets: $12 (purchase them through www.lincolnhallchicago.com)

And with that little nugget of goodness, I leave you for the weekend. Enjoy it!

She + Him....you did it again

Adorable video. Love Zooey Deschanel. Wish I was her for just one day. Enjoy!




P.S. Their new album, Volume Two, arrives March 23rd. Blissful.

Whistle while you work...

Last fall I had the amazing opportunity to assist with a photo shoot at an apple orchard owned by one of my past clients. We spent the day scouting great locations, styling the gorgeous outfits, constantly toying with the hair & makeup, shopping for apple products (doughnuts...yum!) and just really having a great time. My fantastic (and super talented) boyfriend was the mastermind behind the whole project and he ended up getting some really great shots. Check it out!!

The Bohemia Shootout in conjunction with OrganiK Revolution Clothing. Video By BMP from Video that rocks. on Vimeo.

P.S. Shout out to Ben Mahoney for selecting such a perfect song for this video.

Download it: Edward Sharpe & the Magnetic Zeros - "Home"

What a Pleasant Surprise!

As I was scanning through the newest album releases this morning I came across something that put an immediate smile on my face. The Shout Out Louds have (finally) released a new CD entitled, Work, and although I just dove in a few mere minutes ago, I'm already impressed with their new laid-back sound and beautiful vocals. They have traded in catchy, quick beats for smooth melodies and I'm hooked. Check it out for yourself and we can explore together.

Download it: "Walls" / "1999" / "Play the Game" / "Too Late Too Slow"

New Song - "Audience"

I can't quite place it, but there is just something about the new release from the Cold War Kids. I have been following this band for the past 3 years and imagine my delight when I came across their latest EP, Behave Yourself. Each song has its own appeal, but "Audience" definitely stands out as this fan's favorite. Do yourself a favor. Purchase the song....watch the video. Done.

Lollapalooza Rumors

Headliners: Lady Gaga / Green Day / Soundgarden

Rumored bands joining the lineup: The Strokes / Arcade Fire / The Flaming Lips / Company of Thieves / Phoenix / The xx / Hot Chip / Drive-by Truckers

Questions, comments, concerns?

Happy Valentine's Weekend!

Breathe in for luck,
breathe in so deep,
this air is blessed,
you share with me.
This night is wild,
so calm and dull,
these hearts they race,
from self control.
Your legs are smooth,
as they graze mine,
we're doing fine,
we're doing nothing at all.

My hopes are so high,
that your kiss might kill me.
So won't you kill me,
so I die happy.
My heart is yours to fill or burst,
to break or bury,
or wear as jewelery,
which ever you prefer.

Hands down this is the best day I can ever remember,
I'll always remember the sound of the stereo,
the dim of the soft lights,
the scent of your hair that you twirled in your fingers
and the time on the clock when we realized it's so late
this moment we share together
and the streets were wet
and the gate was locked so I jumped it,
and I let you in.
And you stood at your door with your hands on my waist
and you kissed me like you meant it.
And I knew that you meant it.

Download it: Dashboard Confessional - "Hands Down"

New Song - "The High Road"

I have to give credit where credit is due with this little gem. Broken Bell's newest single, "The High Road", is currently the free song of the week through iTunes and it is something special for sure. Broken Bells is the brand new brainchild of Brian "Danger Mouse" Burton (best known for his contribution to Gnarls Barkley) and James Mercer (of the Shins....swoon!) who have combined forces for this supergroup. They are getting ready to release their first official (self-titled) album on March 9 so be sure to scoop up this free song before next Tuesday so that you can check it out for yourself. It's definitely worth a listen...

Bear in Heaven is Taking Over

Here's the timeline....

October 6, 2009
Bear in Heaven kicks off their 2009 tour

October 19, 2009
Beast Rest Forth Mouth was released

December 14, 2009
"Lovesick Teenagers" listed as song #40 on Pitchfork's Top 100 Tracks of 2009

December 19, 2009
Listed #32 on Pitchfork's Top 50 Albums of 2009

Enough said.

Download it: Bear in Heaven - "You Do You" (my personal favorite!) / "Lovesick Teenagers"

New Song - "Odessa"

It might seem as if 95% of my posts revolve around the Born Ruffians, but let's be honest...why shouldn't they? I am joking (slightly), but my love for everything "Born Ruffians" or "Luke LaLonde" has become a gateway for other new artists. Recently it was announced that Luke would be collaborating on Caribou's upcoming album (release date set for April 20th) to lend his lead vocals to their closing song, "Odessa". They're Canadian rockers that have bonded over interesting beats and an unexpected use of psychedelic sounds which I can say that I fully support. The kicker is that you can currently download the first track from Caribou's new album for FREE. Happy listening!

http://www.caribou.fm/swim_download/

It wouldn't hurt to check out Caribou's past albums as well. I could name a few, but Andorra has stolen my heart for the time being.

I'm Back for Good This Time...I Hope!

I can't even begin to explain the reasoning behind the 2 month hiatus I took from contributing to this "project", but all I know is that it has been way too long. It's been a cold, long winter (so far...we still have another month or so, I'm sure), but that time has been spent searching for great new artists and interesting videos so hopefully all is not lost. My hope for 2010 is to achieve the following:

- Write more....in general (open to any and all suggestions to help get my creative juices flowing)
- Post at least 4 new songs each week
- Attend more live shows (Already making that happen...just purchased tickets to the upcoming Shout Out Louds show at Lincoln Hall. Those babies are worth their weight in gold...to me at least!)

Let's start there. I do have a few side projects in mind, but if I've learned anything it's that you have to keep a few aspirations to yourself. It's those little personal victories that are going to get me through another great year...hopefully. It might be February, but I'm finally ready to welcome in 2o10. Looking forward to seeing where I end up.