Wednesday, July 30, 2008

Lollapalooza Sunday Picks

Sunday Sunday Sunday is always the hardest day to get the motor running. But Sunday starts off with some great stuff. Chicago's own Office and Kid Sister, The Blakes, and Octopus Project. Straight into White Lies, Wild Sweet Orange, WMMF, and The Whigs. That makes my lights turn on to say the least. All are noteworthy acts making names for themselves.

1. The National
These fellas occupy an interesting spot in the day's schedule. At the Petrillo Band Shell The National will be able to make quick prey of those waiting for NIN across the field. These guys are coming off a two year high and nothing looks to be stopping them. Matt Berninger's voice at dusk should be kinky.



2. The Whigs
I wish these guys would play in my backyard, plain and simple. Julian, the drummer, makes me want to break shit. They thrive in the live atmosphere.



3. Mark Ronson
Ronson and his glorious horns. My ears really like horns and Ronson's use of them is oh so pleasing. His horns aka The Dap-Kings make you want to move it move it.



4. Girl Talk
I doubt he misses his past job in the bio-med field. Greg makes great party music so do your best to get on stage and dance with him.




5. What Made Milwaukee Famous
These Austin rockers consistently produce great pop-rock. Kincaid's vocals are bound to bowl you over. You won't be able to shake the songs from your head, listen to Sultan from their latest Barsuk release What Doesn't Kill Us. And the answer is Schlitz.



6. G Love & Special Sauce
He was my first, I hope it's not awkward.





7. NIN
I'm going with nails you squid brain.





UNDER THE RADAR
Peep The Black Kids, White Lies, Tally Hall, and John Butler Trio.

Lollapalooza Saturday Picks

Ok ok ok I need to concentrate... and get you my Saturday picks so without further ado here's what I like.

1. Wilco
This will be their first time to headline at Lolla and it's been a long time coming. One of my favorite bands - hands down. Get there early with hopes that Obama introduces them.



2. The Gutter Twins
The combination of Greg Dulli and Mark Lanegan is magical and dark, which I really enjoy. Much better suited for a dive bar than a festival, but you won't be disappointed with these well traveled front men. Pay attention as they often do interesting covers of current songs.



3. Jamie Lidell
This Brit has got so much unexpected soul it's astonishing. Looking at his wiry frame, you'd never imagine it would produce such passionate and energetic sounds. His latest album titled Jim, sounds like a Bill Withers album. LOVE IT, go see him and please dance.



4. The Foals
This Sub Pop band's new album came out in April and share a math-rock sound much like The Battles, with whom they're playing an after show on Saturday at Double Door. I've never seen them live so I'm looking forward to seeing them live in a live setting at the live festival that will be taking place this weekend. LIVE



5. Dr. Dog
These Philadelphia boys are a little bit country and a little bit rock n roll. They're sound is reminiscent of The Band with Beach Boys and Tom Waits stirred in... They're new album, Fate, is great - you should go buy it.



6. Sharon Jones & The Dap Kings
If you aren't familiar with Miss Sharon Jones then you should be. She's been bumping around the music industry for awhile, but not until recently did she garner the accolades she's deserved. You like to dance? Go see Sharon and you'll sweat your ass off.



7. Broken Social Scene
These fine Canadian folks are one of my favorite collectives. In 2006 they put on a jaw dropping set at Lolla and I look forward to seeing them shine again. Broken Social Scene into Wilco, couldn't have planned that much better myself.




UNDER THE RADAR
Checkout The Postelles, Steel Train, Witchcraft and The Ting Tings.

Monday, July 28, 2008

Black Joe Lewis Interview



On Friday, I sat down with Joe and Zach of Black Joe Lewis prior to their photo shoot with the Austin American Statesman. We talk all sorts of nonsense including Joe's desire to be a boxer, his snake charming abilities, their fascination with Star Trek, Lollapalooza and their new van. You need to see these guys at Lolla, they got that old school flavor you've been missing.

Tuesday, July 15, 2008

Lollapalooza Friday Picks

I'm steadily getting ready for Lollapalooza which is right around the corner. Figured I'd give you my picks broken down by day.

1. Radiohead
As I'm sure many of you have read reviews of their recent jaunt through the US or maybe you caught one of the shows, these guys are not to be missed. This Friday show will begin their second US leg before they head to Japan. Their versa tube light show is magnificent and with the help of the Chicago skyline - we're bound to be amazed.
Checkout their new, laser only, music video for House of Cards.

2. Yeasayer
I've blogged about these guys in the past and was able to sneak in an interview while they came through Austin. These guys are great live and I'm anxious to hear their full experimental sound come through a massive PA.


3. Rogue Wave
Zach's sweet melodies will be a soothing way to open Friday. They better play Lake Michigan as I can't imagine a better situation to hear it feet away from the song's namesake.


4. Stephen Malkmus & The Jicks
If we can't have a Pavement reunion, I will happily take Malkmus backed by The Jicks. It also works out nicely that they will be the last to play in the south-end of Grant Park prior to Radiohead, who they opened for on the Hail to the Thief North American tour.


5. Grizzly Bear
This Warped Records band is another must see and are supporting Radiohead on the second leg of the US tour. AMAZING LIVE!


6. The Cool Kids
I've pimped them on another list, this show is a can't miss. Chicago natives + playing a small stage = Epic Show. I'd get there early...


7. The Black Keys
Always a great festival act and I'm glad they're back. Who knows, maybe DangerMouse comes out at some point, here's to wishful thinking...


UNDER THE RADAR
Free Sol
A new hip-hop group from Memphis, who just signed to JT's label Tennman Records. These guys are solid and I've heard some new cuts off the forthcoming album and they do not disappoint.
Black Joe Lewis & The Honeybears
A great blues/soul band for Austin, who will be out on the road with What Made Milwaukee Famous and Okkervil River after playing Lollapalooza. These guys are a sight to see with a full horn section and all the swagger to go with their tasty blues.