Mini-Mixtape #1 - Babes
Trying something new here. SoundCloud has been coming a long way as a platform, and they’ve begun to be a destination for consumers as well as creators. I’ve decided to give them a shot, and am starting with a sort of mini-mixtape.
I noticed that a lot of what I’ve been listening to lately has been female pop vocalists. There’s a surge of talent right now. Thus, I’ve reduced the best to a mini-mixtape named “Babes.”
This is the first in many years that I’ve missed SXSW, and I hope some of you had the chance to see some of these lovely ladies.
<3 | ∑>
Hello again friends!
I built and rebuilt this mixtape several times. A few were due to technical issues with Rdio, but many were because I just wasn’t happy with it. I set out to make a mixtape that in some way represented the emotions of making it over a year with my girlfriend, having never dated anyone more than two months previously (and yes, I’m 27, I know that’s a bit nuts). But the mix kept coming out as a dance party (including several songs Kristine would never listen to). And while a dance party is definitely part of every good relationship, that’s not the whole picture.
In the end, not everything here is tied to that theme. But it’s close in some way or another. At least for me.
I appreciate your patience in waiting for this one, and of course for your time with these mixes! I’ve tried to write more liner notes than usual, but I’ll warn that many are still just me rambling :)
<3 | ∑>
1. Here We Go Magic - “How Do I Know”
Here We Go Magic is a band who make some of my favorite songs, and a lot that I forget easily. But man, when they get something right, they REALLY get it right, as evidenced here.
2. Gayngs - “Faded High”
I’ll admit, I was the last kid on the block to find out about Gayngs (the Minneapolis indie super-group that include’s Bon Iver). I hadn’t checked them out til Poliça came around. And then I let them sit for a while. But this song recently came back to me through a great live recording, and I had to post it.
3. Matthew E. White - “Big Love”
My buddy Kramer had been talking up Matthew E. White for a couple weeks before I gave him a listen. It’s not that I don’t trust Kramer — in fact, we met and became friends through common musical taste long before ever meeting in person — it’s that he was focused so intently on the story behind the music, rather than what it sounded like. Once I listened, however, I totally understood why — this guy reeeeeeeally cares about crafting great music, and understands that takes hard work and collaboration. His epic live band accompaniment reflects that as well.
4. Wintersleep - “Nothing Is Anything (Without You)”
Wintersleep’s first album, Welcome To The Night Sky, was one of my favorite records at the time (“Weighty Ghost” was the jam). But their follow-up, New Inheritors, was lackluster, and I wrote them off entirely. Then my friend Chase played it for me in his car several times, and I liked it (without knowing it was Wintersleep). I thought “In Came The Flood” was the hit of the record, until my friend Britti played this jam in her car with me in Nashville. Sold.
5. The Byrds - “Turn! Turn! Turn! (To Everything There Is A Season)”
I always loved this song growing up, but never knew who it was by, and so never knew how to look for it when I was older and back into this era of rock n roll. Thankfully, I found it again while in Milwaukee, on a Byrds record I found at an antique store.
6. 1, 2, 3 - “Scared But Not That Scared”
Back in July, I shaved my head for children’s cancer. This was my theme song. Both for the lyrical content, and because watching the video for the first time was the sign I needed to go ahead with something I had been contemplating for a while. Thanks to all my friends who helped us raise several thousand dollars in a week, and to the friends who got drunk and did the snipping with me. I feel lighter :)
7. Menomena - “Moms”
As I told my friend Edmund today, the two records that have really made me care about music lately have been Matthew E White and Menomena. The raw emotion is so meticulously channeled without losing any of its energy. The band has been through a lot, both collectively and individually, and they’re not afraid to hold that back in their music.
8. Haïm - “Send Me Down”
Haïm are a relatively new entrant to the music scene, but they sound quite mature. They draw strongly from 90’s influences, but do so far more confidently than most others these days. I’m sure we’ll hear more from these three girls.
9. Fiona Apple - “Hot Knife”
When a brilliant musical talent has decided she’s taken herself too seriously too long and decides to say “ah f*ck it, let’s have some fun with this one.”
10. Kishi Bashi - “It All Began With A Burst”
Kishi Bashi is another relatively recent find, which apparently many were hip to when this record came out in April. And they recently received a pretty nice placement in the Microsoft Surface commercials. While I’m still torn on the staying power (it at least seems possible), I’m highly entertained by this record — there’s not a dull moment on it.
11. alt-J - “Breezeblocks”
A coworker sent me this record a few weeks before it came out, and man what an earworm. This song stuck out to me on first listen, and has remained my favorite. That bridge. Man.
12. POP ETC - “Back to Your Heart”
Hand it to Chris Chu; the man is willing to take big risks. He’s taken The Morning Benders from poppy surf-rock to orchestral indie darlings, and thrown it all to the curb in favor of pure pop and a new moniker. And while many of their fans from the indie world feel betrayed, he’s done a heck of a job making a pop record. Particularly a debut.
13. The Happenings - “See You In September”
This was another that I loved growing up, but never knew who sang it. I found it online, added it to this mix, and got a record of The Happenings Greatest hits for free (in that order) in the course of two weeks. It wanted to come back to me, too :)
14. Barbara Lewis - “Call Him Back”
I was listening to a random 60’s northern female soul compilation (you’ll find three tracks from it on this playlist) on the ride down to Chase’s apartment in the suburbs. This song came on as I was driving down a 25 mph road that sprouted caul du sacs on either side. Perfection.
15. Boogaloo Assassins - “Mi Jeva”
Nick Waterhouse said that the band he most wanted to collaborate with right now was Boogaloo Assassins. Naturally, I tracked them down immediately, which was no small feat — this is the only track they’ve recorded, and they only have a couple live videos. I can’t say I’m generally a fan of this type of tune, but for whatever reason, this one worked. Maybe because I now get to call my (Honduran) girlfriend Mi Jeva.
16. Generationals - “Lucky Numbers”
Generationals have been one of my favorite recorded bands since I first heard them. Their blending of influences perfectly matches my taste. However, when I saw them live a year ago, I was disappointed. Sure, I still bought a t-shirt, because I still loved them, but they didn’t sell their songs to me at all. It didn’t help that Gardens & Villa were opening for them, a few weeks after they got a great Pitchfork review, and only about half the house stuck around for Generationals. A few weeks ago, they completely redeemed themselves. Back to the top of my list, fellas. Thanks very much!
17. The Essex - “Don’t Fight It Baby”
The Essex were a bunch of marines, some of whom knew each other from their service in Japan, others they met at a base back in North Carolina. They released “Easier Said Than Done” (which was recorded in 20 minutes) as their first single in 1963, and it went to #1 on the charts.
18. Chicha Libre - “Muchachita del Oriente”
No idea how I found this song or why (or if?) I like it. Just throwin it out there. Do with it what you will.
19. Patti Drew - “Tell Him”
Oh man, Patti Drew. She was only in the industry for a short time (heading back to Evanston, IL in 1971), having released this song as her first single in 1967 (charting at #90), but she left quite a mark.
20. Lord Huron - “She Lit A Fire”
This was the first song that made me care about Lord Huron (having already seen them live twice). It was a live track from a video shoot homie Rollo Grady did down in LA. A few months later, they finally released it on their new record, which is significantly better than previous efforts — they’ve taken their great sound and put real songs behind it.
21. Rhye - “The Fall”
One can only hope that the rest of Rhye’s debut is this evocative.
22. Dirty Projectors - “Impregnable Question”
I’m sorry, April. I promise this is the last Dirty Projectors song for a while. But I couldn’t not put it on here. As a friend recently noted, Dirty Projectors songs will cover very well. I look forward to finding some covers of this one.
Well, this one took a minute. Honestly, it was ready to go when I posted the last one. But you don’t want to hear that. You want to hear that we have GREAT MUSIC! This was the first mix I made in a while with an ear towards a run, or other sort of workout. And it’s been my running mix for months (with a few days off here and there).
To be fair, I’ve been to North Carolina, Costa Rica, Wisconsin, Illinois, Ohio, and Nashville since we last spoke, amidst a day job and blah blah blah. Ok, I get it. Music. More music. Here it is, and here’s hoping the next batch comes out a little quicker :)
<3 | ∑>
1. St. Lucia - “We Got It Wrong”
Every single song of St. Lucia’s is a hit, and they pull out all the stops live. Look for major things from these guys in the next year or two.
2. The Shoes - “Cover Your Eyes”
I’ll admit — when I started to research this band for this post, I thought they were way more popular than they are. It’s actually kind of tricky to find out much about them, apart from the fact that they’re french. Unless you speak french. Which I don’t. But you should check out the whole album, as this is far from the best track, it just fit really well.
3. Lucius - “Turn It Around”
Lucius’s debut EP is a hidden gem, with a wide range of songs that climax in this sing-along anthem.
4. Mr. Little Jeans - “Runaway”
While I can’t say I agree with the direction Mr. Little Jeans has taken — from delicate vocal pop jams that pack a tender punch, to more straightforward beat-driven pop — her talent is undeniable, and even her disappointing songs are better than most anything else out there.
5. Porcelain Raft - “Drifting In And Out”
I had listened to this track as I fell asleep for a month when Peter (aka Ears Of The Beholder) played it at our SXSW brunch, yet I still didn’t recognize that. It’s that smooth. But don’t make my mistake.
6. Frankie Rose - “Moon In My Mind”
I haven’t been a huge fan of Frankie Rose’s past projects, but I’m fully bought into her new direction. It’s friendly and evil, revealing and mysterious, all at the same time.
7. Maps & Atlases - “Fever”
Maps & Atlases are true musicians — they’re in it because they love music and want to create something interesting. Their results span the gamut, though usually circling around a more acoustic Minus The Bear sound, with mathy rhythms and swirling guitars. Their latest record, Beware And Be Grateful, is a long-awaited collection of gems, including this, arguably the most straightforward (and I’d say cohesive) track.
8. Jukebox The Ghost - “Somebody”
This East Coast trio has been pounding the pavement for years, bringing their emotionally packed songs to high-energy live shows around the world. Pick up any record, just make sure you see them live.
9. El Guincho - “Novias (feat. Javiera Mena)”
It’s amazing what a difference a voice makes. This track was originally released on El Guincho’s last LP a few years ago, and I passed it over as mediocre. This time around, though, Javiera Mena brings a whole new sound and energy to the song, making it one of my favorites of the year. Here’s hoping we see more collaborations between these two!
10. Electric Guest - “Waves”
This much-hyped crew has put together a mightily impressive debut album, garnering them plenty of great festivals and opening slots. They’ll be hitting the road as a headlining act this fall — don’t miss them! (At The Independent, for those of you in SF)
11. The Kuf-Linx - “So Tough”
I’ve found little information about The Kuf-Linx, but did find another band from the same era called The Cuff Links, who had a hit with “Tracy” in 1969.
12. Zeus - “Are You Gonna Waste My Time?”
Zeus is Free Energy done right. Instead of being a contrived replication of the bands of the past, they own a classic, crunchy sound and bring it up to date.
13. Magic Wands - “Warrior”
I can’t believe how long it took to release Magic Wands’ debut LP, Aloha Moon, but it was certainly worth the wait. It contains classic like “Black Magic,” alongside new gems like this one.
14. Dirty Projectors - “Gun Has No Trigger”
Dirty Projectors have proven themselves once again as capable purveyors of complex pop. The lyrics, rhythms, and hoots are sporattic on their own, but come together cohesively.
15. Wave Machines - “Counting Birds”
The first Wave Machines record, with hits like “I Go I Go I Go,” was full of fanastic pop songs, but was not an accurate depiction of the weirdness of the band members. This track is much more in line with their personalities, and it still comes out quite lovely. Keep it up, gents!
16. Korralreven - “Honey Mine” (not available on Rdio - sorry!)
Sweden’s Korralreven could have you believe from their sound that they’re from somewhere far more tropical. Instead, it’s just three Swedish dudes, some guitars, some keys, and some computers. Wherever they come from, though, they know how to write a jam.
Welcome to a (somewhat belated, but what do you expect from me at this point?) SXSW edition of the Sum The Greater playlist! SXSW has definitely gotten out of control over the past five years I’ve attended, but it’s still unparalleled for the sheer volume and quantity of music in a small space. I had to throw two events for work, which were great fun. We had an afternoon arcade where we literally brought in arcade games and a wheel of prizes (plus the usual free booze and such). We also had Chairlift (swoon), Unknown Mortal Orchestra, Gardens & Villa, Rubblebucket (I only haven’t posted them because the recordings don’t do the live show service — my god are they amazing live), and Young Magic play. All were incredible, and it was a fun time throwing my first ever concert event. The next morning, we got up and had an industry-focused brunch with Alpine, G-Easy, and Dana Buoy, along with DJ sets from homies Ears of the Beholder and Rollo Grady.
Since then, I’ve been traveling the country in support of my product and our fancy new card reader and printer — it’s kinda fun to carry a box office around the country in your backpack :)
Anywho, I should probably get to the music.
<3 | ∑>
1. Django Django - “Default”
I had fallen in love with this record a month or two back, and lucked upon their first show outside Scotland at SXSW. It was a showcase of all Scottish bands, and there were lots of Scots in the audience. Fascinatingly, that was a trend — foreigners going to see bands from their own countries. Anyway, Django Django plowed through a perfectly executed set, with little flair but lots of power.
2. Electric Guest - “This Head I Hold”
I was very excited to see Electric Guest, but when I got to the venue (they were the first band of the night, which rarely means a crowd), the line was all the way down the block. Turns out Jack White was playing a couple hours later, so folks had turned out in droves. Ah well. I’m sure they’ll be touring extensively after this debut comes out. My friends built a cool website where you can check out a couple more tunes by dropping some puzzle pieces in place.
3. Nick Waterhouse - “Some Place”
I’ve been trying to hunt down a Nick Waterhouse show for ages, but always seem to find out about them the day after they happen. Thankfully, I tracked him down on the east side of Austin after an outstanding dinner at East Side Showroom (perhaps my favorite restaurant/bar in the world). He brought the heat with three backup singers, and epic keyboardist, sax, etc. I danced! I danced!
4. Bobby Darin - “Minnie The Moocher”
Bobby was not at SXSW (for obvious reasons), but I did find out about him through a post on our brunch DJ Rollo Grady’s blog. He’s amassed an incredible list of favorite records of 2011 from a wide variety of artists. This one came, appropriately, from Nick Waterhouse.
5. Poliça - “Violent Games”
I skipped Poliça at SXSW, because I had just seen them play perhaps the most epic show of the year at Bottom of the Hill a few weeks prior and I didn’t want that to be spoiled by the notoriously faulty sound systems in Austin. I was lucky enough to catch them again a few nights ago at Brooklyn Bowl, and it was a totally different experience — gone were the vocal effects, in were some new tracks, but the show was just as powerful, if not more-so. This is undoubtedly one of the best records of 2012, and I can’t recommend the live show (with two drummers) highly enough.
6. Young Magic - “You With Air”
With any SXSW showcase, I find it’s best to include at least one wild card — a band whose live show you know nothing about, who hasn’t released a ton of music, but who seems to have something good going on. Young Magic was that for our party, and they brought the heat.
7. Yalls - “Settle Down”
No SXSW connection here, but gotta give this SF local some love — he’s been putting out good stuff for a minute, and this is an absolute jam. I’m sad to say I haven’t seen him live yet, but I’d love to book a show with him opening for St. Lucia (you know, in all my free time).
8. St. Lucia - “All Eyes On You”
I didn’t know quite what to expect from a St. Lucia show — either they would be hipsters going through the indie rock motions, or they could maybe possibly be solid and fun. Little did I know, they bring the house down. We were at a small, awkward bar (the oval-shaped bar took up most of the space, and the stage was in the corner, so anyone who wanted to see was crowded right in front), but they made it feel like an arena rock show. Every song was a hit, and played with such power and energy, you couldn’t help but sing along and get sweaty with everyone around you. Expect big things from this band.
9. Korallreven - “Sa Sa Samoa”
Sadly, the Korallreven show we went to suffered from some of the standard SXSW pitfalls — loads of technical glitches meant they went on 30 minutes late, and even when they did go on, the lead singer’s mic barely worked. Yet they were still awesome. And like the Django Django set, the crowd was made up largely of their countrymen (Swedes in this case).
10. Michael Kiwanuka - “I’m Getting Ready”
We were front row center for Kiwanuka’s tragically short church performance. He played earnestly and perfectly, and will certainly be playing to much larger crowds in no time.
11. Jimmy Hughes - “Steal Away”
This Muscle Shoals, Alabama native wrote and recorded this epic soul classic in 1964, and it rose to #17 on Billboard. He had a few rough years, dropped from his label and such, but had a few more bright years starting in 1966. By 1970, though, he quit singing (beyond his church choir) and got a job making parts for nuclear power plants.
12. Randy & The Rainbows - “Denise”
This classic came on when I got my last haircut. Hadn’t heard it since I was a kid. Blondie later had a hit in Europe with it, changing the name to “Denis,” but it doesn’t compare to the original. Funny enough, they’re still together, just in two different bands with the same name. Not confusing at all.
13. Alpine - “Hands”
We were honored to have Alpine play their first American show at our Eventbrite Brunch, and they rocked it hard. They showed up jetlagged and amused by how their stereotypes of America were both confirmed and dispelled, but they looked totally comfortable in this new setting once they were at home on stage. Even a broken kick drum pedal couldn’t stop them.
14. Charlotte Gainsbourg - “Paradisco”
I don’t have much left to say about Charlotte Gainsbourg. She’s lovely.
15. Evan Voytas - “Feel Me”
Sadly Evan wasn’t at SXSW this year, but his new EP is as good as ever, and I still think back to his SXSW performance last year.
16. Audra Mae - “Eli, The Barrow Boy”
I’m not a Colin Meloy hater, but I’ve gotta believe his songs could sell a lot more records if they were sung by someone else. This is a perfect example.
17. Low Roar - “Just A Habit”
There’s something in this song.
Welcome to a (somewhat belated, but what do you expect from me at this point?) SXSW edition of the Sum The Greater playlist! SXSW has definitely gotten out of control over the past five years I’ve attended, but it’s still unparalleled for the sheer volume and quantity of music in a small space. I had to throw two events for work, which were great fun. We had an afternoon arcade where we literally brought in arcade games and a wheel of prizes (plus the usual free booze and such). We also had Chairlift (swoon), Unknown Mortal Orchestra, Gardens & Villa, Rubblebucket (I only haven’t posted them because the recordings don’t do the live show service — my god are they amazing live), and Young Magic play. All were incredible, and it was a fun time throwing my first ever concert event. The next morning, we got up and had an industry-focused brunch with Alpine, G-Easy, and Dana Buoy, along with DJ sets from homies Ears of the Beholder and Rollo Grady.
Since then, I’ve been traveling the country in support of my product and our fancy new card reader and printer — it’s kinda fun to carry a box office around the country in your backpack :)
Anywho, I should probably get to the music.
<3 | ∑>
1. Django Django - “Default”
I had fallen in love with this record a month or two back, and lucked upon their first show outside Scotland at SXSW. It was a showcase of all Scottish bands, and there were lots of Scots in the audience. Fascinatingly, that was a trend — foreigners going to see bands from their own countries. Anyway, Django Django plowed through a perfectly executed set, with little flair but lots of power.
2. Electric Guest - “This Head I Hold”
I was very excited to see Electric Guest, but when I got to the venue (they were the first band of the night, which rarely means a crowd), the line was all the way down the block. Turns out Jack White was playing a couple hours later, so folks had turned out in droves. Ah well. I’m sure they’ll be touring extensively after this debut comes out. My friends built a cool website where you can check out a couple more tunes by dropping some puzzle pieces in place.
3. Nick Waterhouse - “Some Place”
I’ve been trying to hunt down a Nick Waterhouse show for ages, but always seem to find out about them the day after they happen. Thankfully, I tracked him down on the east side of Austin after an outstanding dinner at East Side Showroom (perhaps my favorite restaurant/bar in the world). He brought the heat with three backup singers, and epic keyboardist, sax, etc. I danced! I danced!
4. Bobby Darin - “Minnie The Moocher”
Bobby was not at SXSW (for obvious reasons), but I did find out about him through a post on our brunch DJ Rollo Grady’s blog. He’s amassed an incredible list of favorite records of 2011 from a wide variety of artists. This one came, appropriately, from Nick Waterhouse.
5. Poliça - “Violent Games”
I skipped Poliça at SXSW, because I had just seen them play perhaps the most epic show of the year at Bottom of the Hill a few weeks prior and I didn’t want that to be spoiled by the notoriously faulty sound systems in Austin. I was lucky enough to catch them again a few nights ago at Brooklyn Bowl, and it was a totally different experience — gone were the vocal effects, in were some new tracks, but the show was just as powerful, if not more-so. This is undoubtedly one of the best records of 2012, and I can’t recommend the live show (with two drummers) highly enough.
6. Young Magic - “You With Air”
With any SXSW showcase, I find it’s best to include at least one wild card — a band whose live show you know nothing about, who hasn’t released a ton of music, but who seems to have something good going on. Young Magic was that for our party, and they brought the heat.
7. Yalls - “Settle Down”
No SXSW connection here, but gotta give this SF local some love — he’s been putting out good stuff for a minute, and this is an absolute jam. I’m sad to say I haven’t seen him live yet, but I’d love to book a show with him opening for St. Lucia (you know, in all my free time).
8. St. Lucia - “All Eyes On You”
I didn’t know quite what to expect from a St. Lucia show — either they would be hipsters going through the indie rock motions, or they could maybe possibly be solid and fun. Little did I know, they bring the house down. We were at a small, awkward bar (the oval-shaped bar took up most of the space, and the stage was in the corner, so anyone who wanted to see was crowded right in front), but they made it feel like an arena rock show. Every song was a hit, and played with such power and energy, you couldn’t help but sing along and get sweaty with everyone around you. Expect big things from this band.
9. Korallreven - “Sa Sa Samoa”
Sadly, the Korallreven show we went to suffered from some of the standard SXSW pitfalls — loads of technical glitches meant they went on 30 minutes late, and even when they did go on, the lead singer’s mic barely worked. Yet they were still awesome. And like the Django Django set, the crowd was made up largely of their countrymen (Swedes in this case).
10. Michael Kiwanuka - “I’m Getting Ready”
We were front row center for Kiwanuka’s tragically short church performance. He played earnestly and perfectly, and will certainly be playing to much larger crowds in no time.
11. Jimmy Hughes - “Steal Away”
This Muscle Shoals, Alabama native wrote and recorded this epic soul classic in 1964, and it rose to #17 on Billboard. He had a few rough years, dropped from his label and such, but had a few more bright years starting in 1966. By 1970, though, he quit singing (beyond his church choir) and got a job making parts for nuclear power plants.
12. Randy & The Rainbows - “Denise”
This classic came on when I got my last haircut. Hadn’t heard it since I was a kid. Blondie later had a hit in Europe with it, changing the name to “Denis,” but it doesn’t compare to the original. Funny enough, they’re still together, just in two different bands with the same name. Not confusing at all.
13. Alpine - “Hands”
We were honored to have Alpine play their first American show at our Eventbrite Brunch, and they rocked it hard. They showed up jetlagged and amused by how their stereotypes of America were both confirmed and dispelled, but they looked totally comfortable in this new setting once they were at home on stage. Even a broken kick drum pedal couldn’t stop them.
14. Charlotte Gainsbourg - “Paradisco”
I don’t have much left to say about Charlotte Gainsbourg. She’s lovely.
15. Evan Voytas - “Feel Me”
Sadly Evan wasn’t at SXSW this year, but his new EP is as good as ever, and I still think back to his SXSW performance last year.
16. Audra Mae - “Eli, The Barrow Boy”
I’m not a Colin Meloy hater, but I’ve gotta believe his songs could sell a lot more records if they were sung by someone else. This is a perfect example.
17. Low Roar - “Just A Habit”
There’s something in this song.
Ahoy mateys!
This little puppy came together incredible fast, then got released incredibly slowly (you can tell by the number of songs that you’ve probably already heard). My apologies. I got distracted by a number of things, but probably the most relevant to this crowd is the development of hearts.fm. It started at Music Hack Day, but we want to release it to the world in the next week or so. The idea is that we listen to music all over the web, and most sites have a handy little heart button to let you favorite a song. But no single place lets you listen to all those songs you’ve favorited. We do that, and we also let you select collections of those songs and turn them into a beautiful playlist to share with the world. Let me know what you think!
Oh, I also booked all the bands for my company’s SXSW Party — you’ll see almost all the bands on this or the next mix. I’m incredibly excited, and hope some of you will join me there! Mmmmm…Chairlift…
<3 | ∑>
1. Races - “Big Broom”
I would put these guys in a similar category with 1,2,3 — capable of big rock anthems, generally writing catchy blue collar blues-rock jams, occasionally mixing in more modern sounds. I’m stoked to hear their full-length!
2. The Shins - “Simple Song”
What can I say? It’s The Shins.
3. fun. - “We Are Young (feat. Janelle Monae)”
I’m glad fun. is blowing up the way they are. Nate has been screwed by the music industry as many times as anyone, and always finds a way to overcome and keep writing great songs. This track has been out for months and just keeps growing. The band sold more of their last record over the last month or two than they did when they were first promoting it. Don’t miss their new record (just released).
4. Miniature Tigers - “Female Doctor”
Miniature Tigers are a band who write some of the most infectious tunes you’ll ever hear, but are just that tiny bit too weird to catch on in a big way. Whatever, I still love them.
5. Nite Jewel - “One Second Of Love”
Cute? Check. Good voice? Check. Solid songwriting? Check. Slightly unique sound? Check. Game on.
6. POLIÇA - “Lay Your Cards Out”
I’ve had this album on repeat more than any other in recent memory. And to make things even better, I saw them live last week. Hooooooooooly wow. I never thought I’d like vocal effects live, but everything about their show was perfectly executed and visceral.
7. Blouse - “Into Black”
I know little about this band apart from the fact that they’re from Portland, play alluring tunes, and are rather attractive people. Straight out of Vice. I’m sure they’ll have a bunch of fans all over.
8. Gotye - “Somebody That I Used To Know”
Gotye (aka Wally) once again proves he’s capable of BIG pop jams with an emotional edge. I can’t walk three feet without hearing this tune, but it doesn’t make it any less awesome.
9. Good Old War - “Calling Me Names”
Good Old War is finally starting to sound like the folk band they want to be, shirking their emo roots and writing their best song yet.
10. Chairlift - “I Belong In Your Arms”
OMG CHAIRLIFT. It’s funny that I used to not like these guys (when they didn’t have a drummer live; it irked me; but I still had a great time at the show and met the folks who became my best friends in LA at the show). Love them now (in case you couldn’t tell from the last three playlists).
11. Pat Clayton - “You Gotta Share”
I first discovered Pat Clayton from a mix that Nick Waterhouse made from his personal vinyl collection. Alas, this is the only track of hers on Rdio or Spotify. It’s still rather awesome, but I want to find more of her stuff!
12. Nina Simone - “Mood Indigo”
A rare Nina song that is as clearly as much about the music as her voice. Sure, the music’s always good, but she usually overpowers it. Here, she plays a cat and mouse game with it. Gorgeous.
13. High Highs - “Horses”
More from this duo, and I still know nothing more about them. Maybe once they put out a full-length?
14. Islands - “This Is Not A Song”
After going all Lady Gaga on his last (amazing) record, Islands has toned it down a bit for his new LP. He’s a master, and shows it again here.
15. Diagrams - “Black Light”
I got really into a few songs from Tunng a few years ago, and was excited to hear one of the main guys had a new project. Diagrams is very different, but equally quality.
16. Evan Voytas - “When We Could All Float Away”
I doubt an Evan Voytas release will ever pass without me posting it, and they keep getting better and more fluid (here especially).
17. Cuckoo Chaos - “Jesus Flag American Ship”
These San Diegans write some simple but beautiful songs that wash your cares away.
18. Michael Kiwanuka - “I Need Your Company”
Be prepared for the invasion, America. Just sayin.
19. Extra Classic - “I Need Your Love”
I wasn’t particularly into this band til I saw their Yours Truly performance of this song. Damn.
Happy newt, dear!
As promised, this mix contains a far crazier mix of songs — jazz from the good ol’ days to the modern times, soul from a similar stretch of time, chillwave from…ok, maybe not that one. But hopefully this scratches your itch for variety when the rest of the world is feeding you the same top records of 2011 (ok, that’s also not true…but you get the idea).
Not sure when the next mix will come — got some major projects I need to work on for Yours Truly, and that will be taking some time. I’ll keep my stockpile of mixable tracks building, though, and you may well hear from me sooner than I think :)
<3 | ∑>
PS - Buenos Aires ruled. Brazil didn’t happen. Mexico did. Music did. I wound up watching a friend from college (in NC) play in a hostel with his friends from Columbia (the country) and talking to a Brazilian who spoke no English and little Spanish.
PPS - For anyone new here, you can subscribe to the mixtape via email and get the mp3s in your inbox whenever a new mixtape is published.
1. Nick Waterhouse - “I Can Only Give You Everything”
Nick is one of my favorite artists to come out of SF in a while. He brings new life to soul music. Fingers crossed for lots more to come!
2. The Coasters - “Poison Ivy”
This, like many Costers tracks, is one of those songs I can barely believe got made, particularly in the era from whence it came. Perhaps most impressively, it’s a good song in its own right.
3. Audra Mae and The Almighty Sound - “Ne’er Do Wells”
I can’t tell you much about Audra (except that she has a distant family tie to Judy Garland), but I think her voice says enough for this Oklahoma City girl.
4. Summer Camp - “I Want You”
I’m hot and cold with blog darlings Summer Camp, but something about this track stuck.
5. Chairlift - “Amanaemonesia”
I was similarly hot and cold with Chairlift after their debut record, but their new tracks are blowing me away.
6. Keep Shelly In Athens - “DIY”
This is one of the more eclectic EPs to come out in a while, and it took me a minute to wrap my head around it, but in the end I think it’s highly promising and thoroughly enjoyable. Oh, and Athens is Greece, not Georgia ;)
7. Pyyramids - “That Ain’t Right”
An LA duo comprised of OK Go’s Tim Nordwind and singer Drea Smith, Pyyramids bring a sound they accurately describe as “underground pop” — there’s dirt in the keys and whiskey on the voice, but the songwriting is all there.
8. The Zombies - “She’s Not There”
I don’t think I need to write anything about The Zombies, but please enjoy this track if you haven’t heard it in a while. If you’ve never heard it, get your learn on.
9. Ernesto Djedje - “Lola”
This is the Ivory Coaster’s second appearance on a Sum The Greater mix. This isn’t his best song, by a long shot, but I was feeling in a Djedje mood and this was all Rdio and Spotify had to offer. C’mon guys! Get on those licenses!
10. Nina Simone - “Feeling Good”
I’ve been listening to a ton of Nina Simone lately. Just can’t get enough of that voice. Sadly, my mom’s reaction to this song was, “Ty, this is jazz…I HATE jazz.” She’s missing out.
11. Surfer Blood - “I’m Not Ready”
Surfer Blood’s latest EP, Tarot Classics, finds them growing up a bit from their plenty-good debut LP. They’ve lost the reverb on the vocals, they’ve gained some songwriting depth, and they’ve produced four songs that were very difficult to pick from for this mix. Can’t wait to see what’s up next for these guys, particularly now that they live in SF.
12. The Beach Boys - “Vega-Tables”
When you can do waaaaay too much acid, write a song about drugs that’s not-so-subtly veiled behind the metaphor of health and vegetables, and have it turn out this f*cking good, you’ve officially won at life. Congrats, Beach Boys. And thank you.
13. Beat Connection - “In The Water”
These dudes are from Seattle, but that’s about all I can tell ya. Sometimes they seem like a surf pop band, sometimes like electro pop. Naturally, it’s best when those two converge.
14. White Arrows - “Get Gone”
LA-based White Arrows have been getting significantly better with every release, and this is their climax thus far. I was sad to miss them playing with Races a few weeks back, but hope they’ll come around again soon.
15. High Highs - “Flowers Bloom”
These guys met in Sydney, but live in New York, and have a sound that seems to come from somewhere far away from city life.
16. Coeur de Pirate - “Someone to Watch Over Me”
I was introduced to Coeur de Pirate by this amazing Wood & Wires session video. She’s reasonably well known on the Montreal Jazz scene, but I’m a long way from that. Thank the internets.
17. Daughter - “Landfill”
I really want to post some of Daughter’s new stuff, but for whatever reason it’s not up for streaming on Rdio (though they have the artwork and track listing). Thankfully, any Daughter is good Daughter.
18. David Ruffin - “I’m So Glad I Fell For You”
I probably shouldn’t admit how much David Ruffin my friend Kramer and I listen to together. Oops.
Well hey there, everyone! Back with another installment of the mixtape. Came together a bit faster this go-round. Sadly a lack of old tunes, but we’ll get back to those next month — too much goodness in the indie/pop world these days.
I’m also a bit sad to say that since I assembled this playlist in Spotify (because they let me keep it private from my friends til I’m ready to publish), I didn’t realize some of the tracks weren’t on Rdio (the converse has happened in past months, but I’ve corrected before the mix was “done”). Sorry homies!
In other news, I’m off for Buenos Aires and Sao Paolo in a couple hours. No idea what to expect. Haven’t packed yet. Just locked in a place to stay in BA, still don’t have a visa (required) to go to Brazil. It’s going to be an adventure.
Catch y’all on the flipside!
<3 | ∑>
1. Chairlift - “Sidewalk Safari”
After a spurt of success with a ridiculously catchy song in “Bruises,” which famously made its way to an iPod commercial, Chairlift is back with a pair of singles in anticipation of their sophomore record. Good luck getting them out of your head.
2. Wise Blood - “Loud Mouths”
While I know Wise Blood isn’t for everyone, these brits remind me of a conversation I had in college with Andy Hull from Manchester Orchestra where he described the moment he knew he wanted to be a musician as the first time he felt evil and like he wasn’t supposed to be experiencing what he was (at a show). There’s something beautifully twisted here without losing pop sensibilities.
3. Friends - “I’m His Girl”
I’ll admit, I had most of this mixtape made and waiting for this track to come out officially. Cannot get it out of my head. It’s got all the best elements of the past five decades of music put together in the simplest form possible. Awesome.
4. Young Buffalo - “Catapilah”
This song makes me want to run. That is all.
5. Gringo Star - “Got It”
Dirty rock from the dirty south, but more than a little catchy. I was singing this song all day after I heard it the first time on The Hype Machine’s premiere. Then I saw them live a few weeks back, and they didn’t disappoint.
6. Ten Bears - “Braces”
This song came out last year, but it could have come out any day since the early nineties and still been relevant. You can’t deny that hook.
7. Dominant Legs - “Hoop Of Love”
As promised last mixtape, here is the first (and I think best) single from this SF band’s excellent latest album, Invitation. Check a beautiful interview and live performance of another great track here.
8. Lana Del Rey - “Video Games”
Most of you have probably heard this song by now, but I doubt any of you hate it. Say what you will, this is an absolute jam.
9. Twin Sister - “Bad Street”
This Philly band has been dominating the east coast scene for a bit (just ask homie Yvynyl), but their latest record is full of gems. If you get a chance to see them live, don’t you dare miss it.
10. Lord Huron - “The Stranger” (not on Rdio)
This band seems to get better by the month, so don’t pass all judgement if this track isn’t quite perfect for you (though I insist it’s quite good).
11. Monogold - “Spirit or Something” (not on Rdio)
I’m not really sure how to describe where the influences for this track or band (from Brooklyn, considering themselves DIY experimentalists) come from, but they sure come together nicely.
12. White Denim - “Handwriting”
After a couple straight up psych-country-rock albums true to their Austin roots, White Denim have begun experimenting with several different song styles with a great deal of success. They’ve blown my ear drums for days at multiple shows, so this may be the calmest song they’ve written, but I absolutely love it.
13. Fruit Bats - “So Long”
I’m not as die-hard about Fruit Bats as many folks I know, but it’s tough to deny their songwriting ability, and their latest record, Tripper, is excellent proof of that.
14. Cast Spells - “Glamorous Glowing”
This was the last addition to this mix, but one of the first to be released (in 2009). The front man from Maps & Atlasses struck out on his own for a long EP and a collaboration with Good Old War before going back to M&A, but not before constructing some gems like this one.
15. Rubblebucket - “Came Out Of A Lady”
These guys came highly recommended by my good friend Kramer, who say their epic live show is something of a hippy version of Givers. Very sad to have missed them in SF last week.
16. Pearl and the Beard - “Voice in my Throat”
Sometimes bands just absolutely nail their strengths. In this case, Pearl and the Beard weave their voices together to tell parallel but intertwining stories for the duration of the song, creating a playful intimacy that can only be described as adorable.
17. Feist - “How Come You Never Go There”
I listened to most of the new Feist album nonplussed — nice, but nothing new. Until this song hit. It doesn’t hit you in the ears so much as licking you there, while punching you the stomach.
18. The Antlers - “Putting The Dog To Sleep”
I don’t know that I’ve ever heard a better use of guitar cuts to stab vocal tension, nor one that can be repeated for so long without losing its impact. As the lyrics suggest, this one doesn’t go down easy — it demands your attention and sympathy.
You know it’s time to put out another mix when someone (I’m so sorry dude, I suck at names — please email me!) comes out of nowhere (ok, maybe I was just distracted) and tells you there’s a girl inside a nearby restaurant who loves your mixes and wants to meet you. I have to admit, the only thing keeping me from publishing these more often is the headache of downloading MP3s, uploading them to Topspin, correcting all the metadata, and building and updating the widgets for streaming, email collection, and download. This one had been sitting in my Rdio account for about a month. Does anyone have any interest in being an “intern”? I pay in beer. It would help a lot and mean more music for everyone :)
At any rate, it’s been an extraordinary week of music thus far in SF. Monday, I saw my friends Kinch open for Jimmy Eat World (who played Bleed American from front to back) at The Fillmore. Tuesday was Painted Palms, Pepper Rabbit, and Braids (while Nurses and Dominant Legs played across town). Wednesday was Active Child and Chad Valley (whom you’ll meet on this mix). And on and on. I hope you’re all out supporting your favorite bands, and I hope this mix helps you discover a few more worth checking out in person.
<3 | ∑>
PS - These mixes are now also available on Rdio and Spotify, for those streamingly-inclined.
1. Generationals - “Ten-Twenty-Ten”
I don’t think I can add anything beyond what I’ve already said about this New Orleans band — they’re awesome. I finally got to see them live, and they definitely bring it as much as you’d hope they would. If you get a chance, GO!
2. Blood Orange - “Forget It”
I first heard this record on one of The Hype Machine’s awesome pre-release premieres, and immediately fell in love. Any record that starts with a chorus of “I am not your savior, baby girl” and an effortlessly epic guitar solo in the bridge is sure to please.
3. Girls - “Honey Bunny”
Are Girls my favorite San Francisco band? Nope. Do they write some damn good songs? Yup. Is this one of them? Fer sher. Will I stop talking in questions? Depends on how nicely you ask.
4. Dominant Legs - “About My Girls”
I’ll post some stuff off their new (highly worthwhile) record on future mixes, but I couldn’t go another mix without getting this track out there. The lead singer of Dominant Legs used to be in Girls, and both are at the forefront of the SF music scene.
5. Wallpaper - “2 Pair A Shades”
Staying on the local SF tip, I cannot get enough of this Wallpaper record. It makes me laugh, dance, and maybe even cry a little bit. Maybe. This track in particular is just so catchy it should be illegal. Who wants to start doubling up on sunglasses with me?
6. Chad Valley - “Now That I’m Real (How Does It Feel?)”
Chad Valley, who also leads Jonquil, doesn’t have much in the way of stage presence, but that doesn’t mean he lacks the ability to get a crowd moving. His beats and keys get your feet and hips moving, then his voice comes in and overpowers your head and arms. It’s almost unfair how easy he makes it seem.
7. Active Child - “You Are All I See”
There are shades of Jonsi in Active Child’s live show (though they can’t yet afford the full band setup and have to sub in some electronics) — soaring vocals, unique string sounds (in this case from a harp), and impeccable songwriting. Their latest album of the same name is on constant rotation in my collection these days.
8. Young Galaxy - “Peripheral Visionaries”
I know precious little about Young Galaxy, and frankly couldn’t get into the record beyond this song, but this song would not leave my head for weeks.
9. Gardens & Villa - “Black Hills”
It’s been a long time since I’ve seen an opener get an encore (last time was Katzenjammer at Summerfest a few years back), and it’s especially rare on a band’s first tour. Gardens & Villa pulled that off, then dominated the crowd with a cover of “Cars.” Can’t wait to see them again when my homie EOTB hosts them at Bottom of the Hill.
10. Bombay Bicycle Club - “How Can You Swallow So Much Sleep”
BBC has been the most requested band on this blog, and I’m finally on board with their latest record. But now you guys have to suggest something else ;)
11. Givers - “Saw You First”
Everyone loves Givers. How can you not? They’re adorable, write great songs, and play their hearts out. Look for big things from these guys in the future.
12. Pepper Rabbit - “Rose Mary Stretch”
Though they claim to be from LA (fair, they live there), a lot of Pepper Rabbit’s inspiration (and recording) comes from New Orleans. Think they ran into Generationals? :)
13. Boy & Bear - “Milk & Sticks”
Man, I want to see what happens when Sweden and Australia have a musical love-child. Boy & Bear are another great Australian export — they’re absolutely blowing up down under, and are finally touring America in support of their debut album, Moonfire.
14. Sallie Ford & The Sound Outside - “Cage”
Dirty Radio is about as appropriate of an album name as I’ve heard in quite a while. The Portland-based band writes instant-classic radio-worthy songs with a sound to match, but Sallie brings that extra passion with her through the lyrics that can’t help but shower you in the dirt and grime she and the characters she sings about have been through.
15. Jumbonics - “Last Night” (Strokes cover)
Hat tip to Kramer for this find. I haven’t heard a lot of Strokes covers in other genres — someone had to do it, right?
16. Mr. Little Jeans - “Single Ladies” (Beyonce cover)
I gotta say, as a guy I find this laissez-faire approach to the lyrics far more intimidating (and thus powerful) than Beyonce’s original in-your-face version.
17. Little Dragon - “Little Man”
Much like Mr. Little Jeans, Little Dragon thrives off building tension by hitting notes with more of a hover-and-tap than a strike. Check out the live version we recorded with Yours Truly.
18. Adventure - “Rio”
I was first turned onto this song via the epic video. You may want to start there, too.
19. Other Lives - “For 12”
It’s no secret that Other Lives is an incredible live band. They play a plethora of different instruments and bring them together into some of the fullest sounds you’ll find. They’ve been (very appropriately) on tour with Bon Iver of late. Definitely check them out if you can.
Howdy loves -
I really meant to post about half this mixtape right after SXSW. Alas, my music collection has hit full on diaspora status. I had to download about 90% of these tracks onto the computer I’m writing this post from tonight (even though I have them elsewhere) so I could upload them for streaming and download. I’ve been using Rdio a lot more lately (though it definitely makes me feel uncool with its limited library of small indie bands, I do so love its convenience), so those of you who also use Rdio and want to listen there can check it out here.
<3 | ∑>
1. Thao & Mirah (feat tUnE-YarDs) - “Eleven”
What do you get when you put the bay area’s three most talented females together? THIS.
2. tUnE-YarDs - “Gangsta”
You’ve been hearing me preach the gospel of tUnE-YarDs for ages, but the new record, W H O K I L L, is absolutely epic. It makes you wonder what world Merril lives in, lures you into that world, scares the living crap out of you, then rests you back home, more comforted than you’ve ever been before.
3. EMA - “Milkman”
Don’t f*ck with EMA.
4. Hooray For Earth - “True Loves”
I found this song on a bus checking out homie Yvyvnyl’s Tumblr. He had posted one of the most epic videos I’ve seen in a very long time, and I thank him for that.
5. Dale Earnhardt Jr. Jr. - “Skeletons”
After the most impressive debut EP I’ve heard in ages, DEJJ have completed and released their full-length, It’s A Corporate World. It definitely lives up to (very high) expectations, as does their epic live show. Don’t let the name fool you, these dudes are legit.
6. The Generationals - “I Promise”
I can’t tell you how stoked I am to finally see The Generationals next week. I attempted to see them three times at SXSW, and was foiled each time (time change, full venue). Their debut, Con Law, is incredibly fun, and their latest, Actor-Caster, keeps the fun while showing added maturity in the songwriting.
7. Painted Palms - “All Of Us”
Arguably the hottest band in SF right now, Painted Palms have already toured with Of Montreal, despite only having a single EP and having never played live together nine months ago. Adding a modern twist to classic surf sounds, Painted Palms are near pop perfection.
8. 1,2,3 - “Riding Coach”
Very clearly carrying the influence of their hometown of Pittsburgh, 1,2,3 write some beautiful guitar-driven songs with a snarky edge.
9. The Antlers - “I Don’t Want Love”
Hoooooly crap. You just don’t hold that high a note that long in that dark a song. Except apparently you should.
10. Twin Shadow - “Castles In The Snow”
I can’t say enough about Twin Shadow. They’re the real deal. Check out the Yours Truly video from SXSW I was lucky enough to witness.
11. The Wombats - “Jump Into The Fog”
The Wombats have a history of writing great British pop songs (proven by a platinum record, amongst other awards), and this number off their latest effort is no different.
12. Unknown Mortal Orchestra - “FFunny Frends”
This is one of the most polarizing bands in recent memory amongst my friends, but I can’t figure out from the sound why that is. Instead, I suspect it’s their overt hipsterdom that turns some friends off. Whatever, they write some good songs, so I can’t hate.
13. Architecture In Helsinki - “Contact High”
For fans who were hoping AIH could bring another song as deliciously poppy as “Heart It Races,” “Contact High” is an absolute treat. For new folks, welcome to the dance hall for nerds.
14. Grimes - “Vanessa”
This was another incredible Yours Truly shoot I witnessed recently (the video isn’t done yet), primarily because Claire is so talented and successful a performer, yet so nervous and unassuming in conversation. We had a great time talking about her home town of Montreal and her desire to be incredibly prolific (she’s certainly capable, and well on her way). She, in turn, provided an incredible performance in a warehouse basement a couple blocks from my apartment.
15. Evan Voytas - “Tomorrow Night We’ll Go Anywhere”
Evan and his band are the only folks I’ve ever seen get insistent calls for an encore from an entire audience at SXSW — and they were the first band at a day party! I was certainly one of those folks cheering, and will continue to do so in any way possible. Bathe yourself in this jam’s sleazy goodness.
16. Seapony - “Dreaming”
I caught the end of Seapony’s Yours Truly shoot (the part where I show up with cookies as they’re packing up the van), but the next weekend, this was the first song I heard on the radio as I pulled into San Antonio, TX. I couldn’t believe how out of place it felt, but I felt pretty out of place, too, so it fit.
17. Simon & Garfunkel - “You Can Tell The World”
My mom reminded me of this one while I was home last weekend. My parents definitely have a fun mix of records — it’s all the bands you know from the 60s, but almost none of the most popular albums.
18. Kurt Vile - “Baby’s Arms”
Um, watch this.
19. Frank Ocean - “Novacane”
The most recently added member of LA’s hottest urban music collective, Odd Future, Frank drops some serious R. Kelly vibes.
20. The Head and the Heart - “Lost In My Mind”
Yes, one more Yours Truly shoutout (sorry, it’s how I spent my SXSW) — seeing these guys in their element makes all the difference.
