Indie http://www.musicouch.com/tags/Indie New posts about Indie How the Record Industry Killed Music http://www.musicouch.com/Music-Making/Recording/How-the-Record-Industry-Killed-Music.313963 The 50's, 60's, 70's, 80's and 90's...each can lay claim to a very distinctive style of music, so distinctive in fact, that if a young person uttered "Oh, that's so eighties!" we would know exactly what they were talking about.

Yet, here we are nearing the year 2010, and much of today's music is very similar to the stuff that was released the decade before it?

How did that happen?

Let us reflect, for a moment, on the current music industry.

Is it forward thinking? Willing to embrace change? Reveling in creativity and/or new, inspired, voices?

Hardly.

This is an industry that sued kids for downloading music, when they should have rushed to understand mp3 technology, adopt it, and use it to their advantage, a move that would have made them money, and kept the general populace happy with them.

After alienating their customer base, they tried to blame mp3 downloading for lackluster sales, failing to realize that it was their own inability to accept change, coupled with the penchant for releasing music that would only appeal to twelve year olds who knew no better, that had left a permanent bad taste in the mouths of consumers.

Today, the industry is still clueless, ignoring the shouts of people who are asking for a valid alternative to the norm (not watered down versions of what is already out there, thinly disguised as something "new"…)

In the old days, it used to be "let's find the next best thing!" Record execs were always on the prowl for something different, yet with a marketable appeal. They understood that something unique had a greater chance for longevity, which was their goal. They yearned for anything that would catch on and become the new gold standard.

In other words, they were willing to take risks, and because of it, we have been privy to some of the greatest music in history.

In today's time however, the Beatles would be tossed over in favor of Britney Spears, despite the potential ability to reap huge rewards with such a band.

Modern labels want instant gratification, seeking to find the next (insert chart topping band name here), in an effort to reap the lucrative, if fleeting rewards, of sound recognition.

This is in spite of an overwhelming majority of Americans confessing to being fed up with the crap we are currently getting via the radio airwaves.

Also, while yes, the bottom line is important, companies can write off acts that don't do well, and the small percentage of acts who sell millions make up for the few bombs here and there.

The ability to take risks is available, should they deign to grasp it.

I am firmly of the opinion that the next Elvis, Michael Jackson, or Aretha Franklin is out there, but he/she is being tossed aside in favor of a disposable, blue eyed pop singer.

Also, I think musicians and consumers alike are somewhat to blame for the fact that we are living in a recycled music era.

Music decades were hallmarked by a shift in mood; the 60's embraced flower power, free love and an end to war, the seventies gave us an emotional release with disco and well as political commentary, the eighties spawned punk, new wave glam rock and synth driven pop -- the nineties got tired of the cotton candy of the eighties and called itself alternative…

It was a direct response to the times. The people wanted music to reflect it's current mindset, and tossed aside anything that didn't meet the emotional and political expectations of that period in history.

Yet, here we stand, accepting that which is unacceptable, letting record companies spoon-feed us crap that has no substance but is based purely on image.

I recall a conversation I'd had with the President of a New York based record label, who gave me glowing praise for my work, but told me, "The music industry was ten percent talent ninety percent image."

He asked me to get back to him when I had found stylist.

Have I found my image? Not sure. My concentration has centered more on my musical voice – what I have to say and why. I am hoping that, in time, I will catch up with my musical reflection just as the industry is ready to accept it.

In the interim, music's natural evolution is being suppressed, and in the end, an entire decade will suffer.

]]> Sun, 26 Oct 2008 03:24:31 PST Heard on Commercials: You've Heard Them, You Just Don't Know It http://www.musicouch.com/Musicouching/Heard-on-Commercials-Youve-Heard-Them-You-Just-Dont-Know-It.313835 Commercials and good music have a symbiotic relationship. When an advertisement uses good music, the consumer associates that business with being hip and modern, and they pay more attention to the commercial. And when a mostly unheard-of band gets their music placed in a commercial, at least a few people out there are going to hear it and think, "What is that song? I must have it!"

I'm no different. When I hear a song I like on a commercial, I scour the Internet to find out who it is and where I can get the track. Some songs are easier to find than others.

This list is just a sampling of the songs I've heard on television commercials and had to find out the artist. Maybe I can save someone out there the trouble of fruitlessly searching to find a certain song!

(Note that this list doesn't contain songs that were popular long before they appeared in commercials. For example, many ads have used M.C. Hammer's "Can't Touch This," George Thorogood's "Bad To The Bone," etc., but these are well-known songs already and so have been excluded from the list.)

Let It Out - Starrfadu

This fantastic song, one of my favorites, was used in Kleenex's "Let It Out" ad, which sparked a whole campaign.

"Do you want to lay your head on my shoulder? I don't mind if you cry...sometimes we all just need to let it out."

Official Starrfadu website | YouTube video

Remind Me - Royksopp

I'm a fan of electronic music, so when I heard this on one of Geico's Cavemen commercials, I had to find out who it was.

"And everywhere I go, there's always something there to remind me...of another place and time..."

Official Royksopp website | YouTube video (features a slightly different version than what is heard in the commercial)

The Last Thing On Your Mind - Lights

This charming synth-pop song by Lights (birth name: Valerie Poxleitner) was featured in an Old Navy commercial.

"Sing...the last thing on your mind...the last word on your breath...I'll be the one to keep you one disaster less..."

Official Lights website | YouTube video

Rock You Senseless - Jadyn Maria

One listen of this song from a 2004 Herbal Essences commercial rocked me senseless and I had to download the track. I'm ashamed to admit how many times I've been alone in my room, pretending to be sexy and singing into a hairbrush with this on the stereo.

"It's crazy good and all I wanna do is rock you senseless, rock you senseless...Just one look is all it's gonna take to rock you senseless, rock you senseless..."

Official Jadyn Maria MySpace | YouTube video

More Than This - Fire Flies

Used in a Time Warner/HBO commercial, this catchy, romantic and undeniably awesome song was my personal soundtrack for at least a month.

"I never knew there could be more than, more than this...I never dreamed there could be more than, more than...To change the future with a single kiss...I never knew there could be more than this..."

Official Fire Flies website | YouTube video

La Ti Da - The Icicles

If dictionaries included audio samples by their definitions, I'm sure that this song, used in a Target commercial, would be coupled with the definition of "happy." This mood-lifting, feel-good song is how a sunny day would sound if you were to convert it to music.

"So I sing la...ti da...ti da..." (x4)

Official Icicles website | YouTube video

You're Supposed To Be My Friend - 1990s

If you like Franz Ferdinand and The Hives (as I do), you will love 1990s. ("No 'The,' no apostrophe.") This fantastic song, which has me playing air guitar at traffic lights more often than I'd like to admit, was heard in an AT&T commercial. I also recommend "See You At The Lights," and "You Made Me Like It."

"Okay! You're supposed to be my friend...we're supposed to get along..."

Official 1990s website | YouTube video

Bruises - Chairlift

I'm a Zune chick, but I must acknowledge the excellent choice of song in a certain advertisement for the iPod Nano. Chairlift is one of those groups that I'm going to continue to follow, especially if the rest of their music is as great as "Bruises."

"I tried to do handstands for you, I tried to do handstands for you, every time I fell on you, yeah, every time I fell for you-ooo-ooo-oooh..."

Official Chairlift website | YouTube video

Days Go By - Dirty Vegas

You've probably heard of this [now defunct] house trio by now, but this list wouldn't really be complete without them. They gained international recognition for this song from an ad for the Mitsubishi Eclipse.

"Days go by and still I think of you...days when I couldn't live my life without you...without you..."

Official Dirty Vegas website | YouTube video

Hi - Psapp

When I heard "Hi" in a Disaronno commercial, I had to find out more. Psapp's style is undeniably unique, incorporating toy instruments into their music and throwing hand-made toy cats into the audience during performances. I highly recommend the music video for "Hi," which is delightfully quirky.

"I know how I want it to go...I know how I want it to be...don't make me think before I speak, don't make me hold my horses..."

Official Psapp website | YouTube video

That's all for now. I hope that this list will help at least a few people out there who have been looking for one or more of these songs. Even if you weren't, they all come highly recommended and are worth a listen anyway. Enjoy!

]]> Sun, 26 Oct 2008 02:33:24 PST Album Review: Intimacy, by Bloc Party http://www.musicouch.com/Genres/Rock/Review-Intimacy-by-Bloc-Party.278937 It seems like a long time ago but it was only four years ago that 4 young Brits: Kele, Russell, Gordon and Matt burst onto the scene with their own unique, challenging and breath-taking interpretation of the UK Post-Punk Revival which had grown as a trend throughout the first half of the 2000s. Bloc Party began with a string of Singles and EPs which attracted the interest of music journalists and tech-savvy teenagers alike, in a similar way that the Strokes had done around 2000/ 2001 and how the Arctic Monkey’s would in a much more larger,  "astroturfing" sort of way. Their debut album, Silent Alarm was released in 2005 to massive critical acclaim and commercial popularity from all areas of the music listening public. Their sophomore effort A Weekend in the City saw them take a step away from a lot of the other bands who were crowding a similar sort of market and they undertook a concept album of sorts which was more laid back, almost avant-garde but which, perhaps, lacked the exciting edge that their debut had.

And so the band reach their third album, at what seems like a make or break time. As with A Weekend In The City they have decided not to try and recreate they’re previous success but instead to pick a new direction and challenge people. From the start, Bloc Party’s third full length poses one main question: “So, you think you know Bloc Party?” In an album which presents such a style change, this question is a very important one. The first track Ares absolutely screams this at the top of its lungs. “I want to declare a war!” Kele Okereke sings in this rip-roaring opener. “We’re definitely not in Indie-Rock-land anymore” says the metaphorical Dorothy to the metaphorical Toto. Ares is followed by Mercury, the album’s lead single, which also takes quite a confrontational approach and adds heavy electronics and also horns to the band’s sound.

Halo seems a slight reversion to the style of Silent Alarm and Biko is slight lull (but a failry pleasant lull at that.) Next comes the track Trojan Horse (continuing the Greek mythology theme present throughout a few of the album’s track titles) which is yet another up front, in your face track but which introduces Russell Lissack properly to the album with some rather over-the top guitar riffs. Then, the dust settles and we are treated to on of the album’s highlights, Signs, a beautiful song beginning with a xylophone loop and eventually introducing synths (now measured rather than in your face) and Kele’s soft vocals muttering in your ear in a melancholy way only hinted at during Waiting For The 7:18.

Now a rather pleasant end to the album begins where the new, electronic littered sound is matched against some of the older charm and quality which made them so popular. This all culminates in the amazing closer, Ion Square. This song represents what is great about this album, while I still know that this is Bloc Party, the same band that brought such musical joys in the past, I am also reminded of other bands and what they have done. I think Radiohead, I think Bjork and LCD Soundsystem, I even think Animal Collective for a weird, brief, split second before I realise how mistaken I am.

This album may not quite be the all conquering third album in the same way that OK Computer was for Radiohead (or even in an experimental way like Kid A was.) But, I think Bloc Party are happy and comfortable with their position as a band, and you know what? So am I.

Intimacy is available to download now from www.BlocParty.com and will be available in shops and online music stores from October 27th.

]]> Wed, 01 Oct 2008 02:38:25 PST Croon to Me: Four Great Singers/Bands You Do Not Want to Miss http://www.musicouch.com/Genres/Rock/Croon-to-Me-Four-Great-SingersBands-You-Do-Not-Want-to-Miss.162517 Being a huge music fan, it is hard not for me to share my favourite picks from my collection of wonderful albums. These are the singers/bands that I absolutely adore and I thought I should give them some credits for making a fan out of me. Do check them out!

  1. Jason Mraz

    If you haven't heard of this dude, it is high time you should. In my opinion, one of the most talented singer/composer I have ever heard. With his geekish boyish look, you might just mistake him for another boy next door. But hey, this boy next door could play his guitar really well. And he is fantastic in his lip-sync, lyrics and melodies. You should hear him sing "live". Absolutely captivating to the ears. For starters, you might want to try some songs from this guy. My personal favourites? "I'm Yours", "Life is Wonderful", "You and I Both", "Wordplay", "Geek in the Pink", "The Remedy(I Don't Worry).

  2. Travis

    This Scottish band is of an indie influence and if you like alternative rock, you might want to give this band a try. I first heard of them in their album "12 Memories". Fran Healy, the lead vocalist has a melanchoia touch to his voice and the songs would croon you. "12 Memories" was an affecting album since it's inspired by real life stories. Till this date, this band has 5 albums and a compilation of Singles. Some tracks worth checking out are "Beautiful Occupation", "Re-Offender", "One Night", "Sing", "Why Does it Always Rain on Me", "Battleships".

  3. The Perishers

    This had to be my favourite band. As a Swedish rock band, The Perishers have one of the best music arrangements I have ever heard. Most often, their songs are soothing to the ears but can be depressing as well. The melodies are beautiful and tug at the heartstrings. This band might not be in the same league as Coldplay yet but they have sung a couple of soundtracks for series like "The O.C.", "One Tree Hill" and "Veronica Mars". One thing that is easily noted is the band's idiosyncratic sounds. Soft and mellow. You should check out songs like "Trouble Sleeping", "Let There Be Morning", "Pills", "Nothing Like You And I".

  4. RyanDan

    RyanDan is a duo from Canadian who just launched their album recently. Other than being a pair of twins, this is a highly musical twin. I first heard of their songs while browsing a music store and man was I hooked. They have more of a contemporary classical style to their music but it makes them all the more appealing. Did I mention one of the brothers has a super high pitch voice that could blow you away? I thought they deserved more credits than their current standings now. But anyway, do check out "The Prayer", "I'll Be There", "Like the Sun", "Tears of an Angel".

There you go. Just some of my personal favourites in my journey of music listening. Their songs might not be for everyone since music is highly subjective. But if you would like your ears to be pleased, you should check out my recommendations.

]]> Wed, 09 Jul 2008 08:18:50 PST 40 Best Songs of All Time and the Zodiac Signs That They Appeal to http://www.musicouch.com/40-Best-Songs-of-All-Time-and-the-Zodiac-Signs-They-Appeal-To.155243

  • U2 - Beautiful Day

    This song is both uplifting and a timeless classic, and also one of U2's greatest hits. Full of positive energy and lyrics that reflect the beauty of everyday life. Perfect for sensitive Pisces and Cancer.

  • The Police - Every Breath You Take

    Another timeless classic, this piece is a little darker and more contemplative, questioning the meaning of controlling relationships. This song is great for logical, down-to-earth Taurus.

  • Goo Goo Dolls - Iris

    By far the best music by this band, Iris was written to be used as a theme song to the film City of Angels starring Nicholas Cage and Meg Ryan. It has passed into musical folklore and is one of the most beautiful love songs ever written. Lustful Leo will adore this song.

  • Sara Bareilles - Love Song

    This is a recently released but fresh and quirky piece which is currently phenomenally popular in the US and UK. It was written as a satirical reply to Sara's record company, who asked her to write soppy love songs. This piece is refreshingly upbeat, making it just the thing for unpredictable Aquarius.

  • Sixpence None the Richer - Kiss Me

    This song is a traditional love song by a Christian rock band. It was their biggest hit and continues its popularity even today, almost a decade after its release. Lovely Libra will love this romantic track.

  • Outkast - Hey Ya

    Guaranteed to cheer up even the darkest of bad moods, this piece is funny, catchy and entertaining. A must for all ipods. Lively Saggitarius and brainy Gemini will have fun singing along to this great song.

  • Christina Aguilera - Beautiful

    Especially when performed live, Beautiful is arguably Christina's best ballad and has strong lyrics and an inspirational melody. A sentimental Pisces or sensitive Scorpio will find this track perfect for a quiet night in.

  • Natasha Bedingfield - Unwritten

    Once famous for adorning the Pantene Pro-V commercials, this upbeat song is a lot of fun to sing along with or work out to. Also great as dance music at parties and girly nights. Bring it on for amazing Aries! This great track is also just the thing for vivacious Virgo.

  • Coldplay - The Scientist

    Another beautiful track from Chris Martin and his boys, this song is about the loss of a lover. It is sad, but well-written with brilliant instrumentals. Another soulful track for that dreamer Pisces, and also the more artistic side of Aquarius.

  • Tal Bachman - She's So High

    Recently covered by Kurt Nilsen in Norwegian Idol, this song is about beautiful girls who are too good to reach or get close to. Possibly the Canadian singer-song writer's best piece. Great for upbeat Gemini, loud Leo or sexy Scorpio.

  • John Lennon - Imagine

    The former Beatle's most popular piece as a solo artist, this track portrays his dream of a better world devoid of hunger, poverty and suffering. Listen for loads of inspiration and food for thought. Any Libra or Aquarius will adore this track.

  • Bon Jovi - It's My Life

    A song for any rebel, It's My Life is about living your life to the full and enjoying every day of it. As well as being the artist's best hit, it is still highly popular among young and old listeners alike. Another rebellious Aquarius song! Also great for Gemini, Libra and Saggitarius.

  • Don McLean - American Pie

    This is the original version of the smash hit song. It can break the ice at any party. Amorous Aries and tough-stuff Virgo alike will love this sing-along.

  • Paul McCartney - Yesterday

    Known as the most commercially successful song of all time as also as Paul's greatest solo piece, this piece reflects the woes of the past and the way we regret what we cannot change. Perfect for Pisces and Cancer, and the softer side of Scorpio. A take-it-easy Capricorn will also adore this.

  • Spin Doctors - Two Princes

    The greatest hit of the 80s/90s indie rock band. Fantastic to sing along to with friends, this song has a lot of witty lyrics and a catchy tune. This track is great for rebellious Aquarius.

  • Scott MacKenzie - San Francisco

    A nostalgic track that will take you back to the 70s and the legendary Summer of Love. Great old school stuff. Just the track for Virgo, Taurus and Cancer.

  • Shakira - Ojos Asi

    Great Spanish track from the passionate Columbian artist. Will turn the tempo right up at any dull party. This passionate track is for Leo, Aries and Libra.

  • Sarah McLachlan - Adia

    Recently covered by Avril Lavigne, this song is about ending a relationship whilst still feeling a great love for one's lover. Great for Libra.

  • Rihanna - Unfaithful

    One of the young singer's first popular pieces, it examines the psychology of the unfaithful lover. A touching ballad with beautiful instrumentals. Best for Virgo, Taurus, Capricorn and Scorpio.

  • ABBA - Waterloo

    Sweden's winning Eurovision entry in 1974 remains both a popular track and the best song in Eurovision history. This song is really gutsy, making it perfect for Aries or Leo. Also the thing for Aquarius and Gemini.

  • Jennifer Lopez - Let's Get Loud

    We would recommend this track as dance music or workout music. It has a great beat, lots of energy and a positive attitude. This hot track will please any Leo or Aries.

  • Tatu - All The Things She Said

    Catchy instrumentals in this smash hit song from the controversial Russian duo. Great for the louder side of Virgo or Pisces, or Libra.

  • Blink 182 - I Miss You

    One of the group's calmer pieces, it focuses on yearning of one who is no longer there, and the love felt towards them. Great guitar instrumental and drumming. Perfect for Cancer, Virgo, Pisces or Scorpio.

  • Spice Girls - Wannabe

    A guilty pleasure! Everyone loves this 90s girl power pop song from the UK's best girl band. Sing along to it, tell me what you want what you really really want! Great gutsy stuff for any Gemini or Aquarius.

  • Ricky Martin - La Vida Loca

    The Latin American star's best and most well-known hit. This is almost too hot for any Leo or Aries. Saggitarius will also love this.

  • The Killers - Mr Brightside

    This is a sarcastic song about a cheating lover. It is highly popular on radio and fun as a sing-along song. Fantastic for outrageous Aquarius.

  • Eagle Eye Cherry - Save Tonight

    Funky indie pop/rock song which is about making the most of the present moment because it may be the last. Great acoustic and electric guitar instrumentals. Aquarius and Pisces will love this sentimental song.

  • The Corrs - I Never Loved You Anyway

    A quirky, upbeat pop song with traditional Irish tunes from the Irish band. It is about the happiness associated with ending a troublesome relationship. Witty lyrics and brilliantly played violin and tin whistle insturmentals. Perfect for Libra, Gemini and Aquarius.

  • Take That - Patience

    This is a new single by the legendary British boyband who have recently got back together. Excellent melody, lyrics and vocals, this piece reflects Take That's full potential. Pisces, Capricorn or Cancer will adore this powerful track.

  • Sick Puppies - All The Same

    The song is best known for being the theme song of the "Free Hug" campaigns which can be seen on YouTube. The Australian band found fame with this track several years ago, and have since had other great singles released. The song itself is uplifting, inspirational and full of love and acceptance. Romantic Libra and activist Aquarius, along with the softer sides of Virgo and Scorpio will love this track.

  • OneRepublic - Stop And Stare

    Currently the band's best piece. We would recommend watching the music video shot for this song as well, which is quirky, dark and contemplative. Powerful stuff perfect for Aquarius, Libra and Gemini.

  • Blur - Song 2

    Amazing drumming, fantastic guitar, rebellious lyrics, this song is a classic teenage anthem which will continue its popularity on radio and music television for years to come. Both the band and the song are legends. A louder Taurus or Virgo, or a wacky Scorpio will like this.

  • Hard Fi - Suburban Nights

    An unforgettable track from the much-loved rock band featuring catchy vocals and tough-guy attitude. A great sing-along anthem. This is an Aquarius or Libra song all the way, but also great for Gemini.

  • Leona Lewis - Better In Time

    A beautiful, positive and strong ballad from the highly successful X Factor winner. Pisces and Cancer, and the softer side of Scorpio will adore this great track.

  • Amy Studt - Misfit

    Fun, energetic stuff from the rebellious British singer/songwriter. This is arguably her best hit of all time, which focuses on being the odd one out and dealing with rejection. This outrageous track is prefect for the out-of-place Aquarius.

  • James Blunt - Carry You Home

    New track from the scruffy artist. This is truly a moving piece about loss, misery and healing. Virgo, Capricorn and Taurus will adore this earthy song.

  • Keith Urban - You'll Think Of Me

    One of the Aussie artist's best hits, it focuses on a romance of the past and all its regrets. This song is fantastic performed live, with expertly played drumming and acoustic guitar. Any Scorpio or Cancer will love this.

  • EMF - Unbelievable

    Covered by the likes of Tom Jones, this 90s smash hit is still unbelievably popular on radio today and serves as a teenage anthem to the new generation. Great stuff. Gutsy rebellious stuff for any Aquarius or Gemini.

  • Kylie Minogue and Robbie Williams - Kids

    Still remarkable popular since being released in 1996, this track is a great sing-along and fantastic for letting out the immature little kid inside you. Capricorn and Taurus, enjoy this sing-along!

  • Simple Plan - Your Love Is A Lie

    Dark, attitude-filled rock from the rebellious US band. A darker Libra or Gemini, or a love-sick Aquarius will enjoy this track.
    • ]]>     Wed, 02 Jul 2008 04:58:43 PST     50 (Mostly) Obscure Songs You Should Listen To (With Links) http://www.musicouch.com/Musicouching/50-Obscure-Songs-You-Should-Listen-To.152239

  • Marcy Playground - Our Generation

    .This has become one of my favorite songs as of late. Who would have thought that a one hit wonder from the late 90s would have released decent music? Remember "Sex and Candy"? Yep, that's these guys. This song is an anthem for liberal spirituality.

  • Insane Clown Posse - Nothings Left

    There is a moronic skit at the very beginning of this track, but after that you get a very poetic piece about how "Everything lefts been done before, nothing new, nowhere to explore." The song's theme is death and committing something to history. It is a lonely dirge. It is the song I want played at my funeral. There are no serial killer clowns and no faygo, just a spiritual acceptance that if he were to die, the only thing he would have left is to hope that he's accepted into the after life he desires. This is one of the best examples of the Insane Clown Posse's spiritual side.

  • Alanis Morissette - Still

    If you've ever watched the Kevin Smith film, Dogma, you've already heard this song. It plays at the end credits. I love this song because it is about God. I am not a Christian and I usually dislike songs about God, because, well, I don't actually believe in any God. Alanis Morissette played God in the film and this song was written in a specific response to her ideas of God. She is an Agnostic woman who had studied Buddhism. I think Still is a beautiful understanding of the Judeo-Christian God and I love that it came from an Agnostic woman rather than a Christian one.

  • Divisible - Starlite Motel

    This song is about regret, I think, and doing things to make other people happy only to lose track of your own mental well being. It's about disappointment and it's about waking up from them. The lyrics are very mysterious and abstract at times and also very blatant and personal at times. They create a world in which you feel as if you are listening to yourself confess all of your deepest secrets but only realizing that it is you at the last moment. It's a beautiful song.

  • Mindless Self Indulgence - Mark David Chapman

    . Mark David Chapman was the man who shot John Lennon. This song is about how music sucks these days. How there is no more originality and how not even Mindless Self Indulgence are worthy of the album sales they get. Music sucks. It's extremely energetic and full fisted. Very loud sound but you can't help but sing along.

  • Lorraine & Malena - Just Me And Eve

    . This song is about Adam and Eve. It was written by Neil Gaiman and is absolutely hilarious. This is possibly the best retelling of Adam and Eve that I've ever heard.

  • Tech N9ne - Hope For A Higher Power

    This is a Gangsta rap song about religion. It's about how, when it's all said and done and it's the end, he hopes there is a God. But until then he isn't going to leave things up to God. Tech N9ne is one of the most talented rappers to ever spit, his flow is complex and his concepts are well thought out and original.

  • Snoop Dogg - My Medicine

    My Medicine is off of Snoop's new album "Ego Trippin". The song features Whitey Ford on guitar and is essentially a country song about smoking weed. Willie Nelson is in the music video, but mostly it is just Snoop being Snoop over a different type of music. He dedicates the song to the "true American Gangsta" Johnny Cash.

  • George Jones - He Stopped Loving Her Today

    One of the saddest songs I've ever heard. It's about heart break. George Jones has a way with making you feel for his music and the story behind the lyrics is classic. It opens with a proclamation we've all made, I'll Love You Till I Die and goes from there.

  • Rasputina - Identity Tokens

    This song is incredibly abstract and hard to really explain. The musical aspect is absolutely brilliant and the song leaves me with a kind of saddened chill. It's very creepy and odd. The feeling I get from the lyrics is about how we use products/fashion/symbols to define ourselves.

  • Unexpect - Desert Urbania

    Another incredibly abstract song. This is about being trapped. When I listen to this I think about how much I loathe my job and how I just want to escape. It's also about the power of magic and how you can release these feelings by letting yourself go in artistic expression. The music and vocals are extremely wild.

  • Clouddead - Dead Dogs Two

    A bizarre song. I'm not sure if this counts as Hip-Hop or Electronica but it's a good song, none the less. It's about wanting to be a morbid curiosity, wanting to be something that shocks people into noticing them. Something so haunting and honest, something that reminds the on looker that he is mortal.

  • Snog - Corporate Slave

    This song is pretty obvious. It's about wanting to get out of a shitty job. It's about how, no matter what, you do your job even when you hate it because if you don't you will be homeless and starving. It's about struggle and frustration and responsibility.

  • My Life With The Thrill Kill Kult - Universal Blackness

    Mmm, kitschy industrial. This band has a lot of different sounds, this is one of my favorites of theirs, though. It's dark, creepy and still fun and camp. It's over 9 minutes long so get comfy.

  • Pop Will Eat Itself - Ich Bin Ein Auslander

    The title is a jab at John F. Kennedy saying Ich Bin Ein Berliner. I am a Berliner. The song is about fascism creeping into everyday life. Subtly at first and then not so much. It's about fear of an over powerful government. It's about racism and prejudice and how, some day soon, we will see another Hitler.

  • TV On The Radio - Staring At The Sun

    Another heavy on the abstract song. It's about passion and love though. How it takes you over. When you first fall in love with someone it's beautiful but it's dangerous. It's overwhelming, like being overtaken by the waves on a beach, or more aptly, like when you stare at the sun and can't look away.

  • King Gordy - Lucifer's Apology

    This song is about regret. It is about Lucifer begging to be let back into God's life but it is also about a man begging his lover to take him back. Probably the single best Horrorcore song ever recorded. The authentic nature of Gordy's flow speaks a lot about the pain in this song.

  • Tori Amos - Father Lucifer

    Tori Amos is insane and super awesome. This song is about her getting in touch with some inner feelings. It's not as dark as you'd think and it's not as apologetic as you'd think either. It has very little to do with "Lucifer" but is more about a spiritual journey she took with a Shaman. It uses very Judeo-Christian language though, so negative feelings earn the name Lucifer.

  • Billie Holiday - Strange Fruit

    .Live. Strange Fruit is was written in response to a photo in the newspaper. It's an extremely graphic song about lynch mobs and hangings in the south. Very powerful and Billie Holiday had the perfect voice for this kind of song. It is full of anger, bitterness, and a little bit of fear.

  • Massive Attack - Unfinished Sympathy

    This song is about falling in love with the wrong people. It's a Trip Hop song about knowing that someone is bad for you and staying with them simply because you want to know how it ends.

  • Gaelle - Moonsglow

    Probably the sexiest song I've ever heard. Gaelle is an intense vocalist who uses very calming sounds to express her intensity. The passion and fire in this song is strong but the music is very relaxing. It's like scented candles, dim lighting and a bubble bath for two.

  • Portishead - Nylon Smile

    Have you ever felt that even though life isn't so bad, you just can't seem to be happy? That is this song. Being lonely is the worst kind of pain and sometimes you just can't escape that feeling, that is where Portishead live.

  • David Bowie - I'm Afraid of Americans

    This song is about conformity and about mass appeal. It's one of the first music videos I can remember watching and being blown away by and the song has stuck in my head ever since. I'm afraid of Americans. I'm afraid of the world. You've probably heard this song, but it's probably been a long time and you should listen again. The video also lends a bit to the trigger happy quality of so many Americans.

  • Garbage - Not My Idea

    Garbage's second album was really popular, but their first cd was my favorite. Not My Idea was a darker, angrier song and I felt it often got ignored. The story is about regrets and being misled. It's about falling in love with someone who breaks your heart and wanting revenge. It's also about fire. I jokingly refer to this song as Lisa "Left Eye" Lopes' favorite song. Why? Listen to the last verse.

  • The Postal Service - We Will Become Silhouettes

    This song compares the end of a relationship to the falling of an atomic bomb. It's beautifully sad imagery is one of a kind.

  • P J Harvey - Sheela-na-Gig

    I think this song is about trying to find a balance between being a sexual person and being too sexual. I think, in our world, it is hard for women sometimes because the masculine society either idolizes the virgin, the asexual woman, or lusts after and degrades the overtly sexual, the whore. Even in the bible women are either virgins or prostitutes. I think many women probably suffer from trying to find their own grey area in something that most people treat as exclusively black or white. As a man I try to keep this in mind.

  • Sabac - Fight Until The End

    This is a song about police brutality. It's a hip hop song, lots of energy and offers a different reaction to crimes committed by police officers. Although the conclusion is, if you play the system and lose shoot back, the fact that he spells out what people in a community can do to legally keep an eye on the police who patrol their areas is classic. The song is well thought out and wonderfully put together. Immortal Technique is a featured guest.

  • 8mm - Nothing Left To Lose

    This is another song that takes place at the end of a relationship. What I love about this song is the way it sounds. The musical aspect is not as impressive as the vocal layers. You can't help but want to sing along and everybody in the world can relate to the emotional aspect.

  • Corporate Avenger - The Bible Is Bullshit

    This song is about how Religion corrupts people. It doesn't limit it to just Christianity, but takes on Islam and Hinduism too.

  • Fuckfase - Mushroom Cloud

    This song was written right before the US went in to invade Iraq. It is a protest to the American racism that cried "NUKE THEM ALL" in response to 9/11. It was and continues to be one of my favorite anti-war songs. It is controversial and offensive at parts, but I think that is the passion behind its statements. The vocals are very gruff, it's a rap song but not a typical sounding rap song. It's like horrorcore but political.

  • Zug Izland - Just A Dream

    Zug Izland was a project started by Violent J of the Insane Clown Posse. He'd been listening to too much Pearl Jam and Alice In Chains, at the time, and this is what grew from it. Though Violent J is not in the group he wrote a majority of the lyrics and themes. This song is about how any dream can come true.

  • Pearl Jam - Ghost

    Pearl Jam are one of the more popular bands on this list. This song is one of the lesser known songs off their albums. If you listen to Pearl Jam you probably know it well. Otherwise you've probably never heard of it.

  • Sade - The Sweetest Taboo

    I once dated a woman who was obsessed with the sheer sexiness of Sade. I'd never listened to her music before then but this song floored me. This is a love song about forbidden love and is definitive of the quiet storm sound. It's passion is unmatchable but it comes off very mildly. It is subtle and unflinching but very mellow.

  • Will.I.Am - Fantastic

    This song is another one that takes place at the end of a relationship. It's when you bump into an Ex and you tell them you are doing good. You're doing better than you ever had been when you were with them. You don't miss them at all. You're fantastic.

  • Tapping the Vein - Everything

    This track is about not being able to get back into your life after a tragedy. I think it is about recovering from drug addiction but the metaphor plays with any tragedy. When a loved one dies you have to get back to living your own life. When your heart breaks, when you lose your job, you just have to get back on that horse.

  • Collide - Halo

    Collide are moody, dark and sexy. They are black leather and haunting vocals mixed with passion and aggression. I chose Halo because the song impresses me musically, but in truth all of their songs are pretty similar. Bleak and dismal but still romantic. Lonely but wanting love.

  • Ego Likeness - Aviary

    This track is about feeling stuck in a cage. It's moody and slow and dark. It's about being fed up with life and being stuck in one place which is sometimes interesting but mostly not.

  • Goldfrapp - Caravan Girl

    Goldfrapp proves that pop music doesn't have to suck. It doesn't have to be about dancing to mindless melodies about how sexy you are. This was my favorite song off her newest album, Seventh Tree.

  • She Wants Revenge - Monologue

    This song is about inner pain but it disguises it as being about kinky sex. Its about an emotionally abusive relationship and being too afraid to say something. She Wants Revenge is a more popular band so you may have heard this song before, but you should give it a good listen.

  • Neila - News On Mute

    Neila is a Hawaiian born, So Cal raised hip hop act. News On Mute is off her album For Whom The Bells Crow and is in tune with the theme of that album. The world sucks sometimes. News On Mute poses the question, "Why isn't the news ever positive?" The song is about trying to find the silver lining in a shitty world, though often not being able to.

  • India.Arie - India'Song

    India.Arie is really popular in some circles but next to unknown in others. She is an odd place between soul music and folk music. This is a song about racism and slavery and is well written and awesomely put together.

  • Project Deadman - Good Enough

    The album this song is going to be on has not yet been released but you can view the video on Youtube or on the new DVD that comes with Prozak's solo album Tales From The Sick. The song is an apology, but it is about rejection. It's haunting and lonely and the video is genuinely creepy.

  • Belle and Sebastian - Put The Book Back On The Shelf

    I once bought a comic, kind of at random, called Put The Book Back On The Shelf. When I'd read it at home later that night I realized it was a collection of comics about the band Belle And Sebastian's songs. I'd never heard of them before so I got to downloading. The song Put The Book Back On The Shelf was really interesting to me.

  • Bob Dylan - Day Of the Locusts

    Everybody knows who Bob Dylan is but very few people under 30 have ever actually listened to his music. It's time to go back and just listen to his brilliance. This song has always made me smile, but I smile at odd things.

  • Bright Eyes - A Poetic Retelling Of An Unfortunate Seduction

    I used to loathe Bright Eyes but when I heard this song everything fell away and all I could think about was how perfectly worded this song is. The word combinations and structure are just impressive. The storytelling is some of the best in music.

  • Dogs Die In Hot Cars - Godhopping

    Aside from the fact that they have the single best name for any band ever, Dogs Die In Hot Cars is a relatively unknown band. They have a national audience but I've never known them to be on MTV or the local rock stations. They are an intelligent band, too. Anyway, this song, Godhopping, is an attack on society to say the least.

  • Iggy Pop - The Passenger

    A friend of mine named Jozie made me listen to Iggy Pop's album Soldier, which came out right around the same time I was born. It was unorthodox and brash. It was intense and erratic. The song Ambition was the first Iggy Pop song that made me smile. It is sarcastic and rude and honest. I couldn't find a link to that song, so you get The Passenger, which is just as awesome.

  • Rilo Kiley - Accidntel Deth

    When I listen to this song I think about a friend of mine who is addicted to Meth. I'm not sure if that is what the band intended or not but that is what I got from it. I think that is why they spelled Death wrong in the title. I don't know. It makes me sad to think that my friend nearly died and reminds me of the moment I'd heard he'd had an overdose.

  • Gorillaz - Clint Eastwood

    If there is only one song on this list you've heard, it's probably this one. I love the rap verses to this song.

  • Hed P E - Feel Good

    I'm a huge fan of hybrid genres and a punk band doing a rap song feature Morgan from Kittie and Serj from System of a Down, well, that has to be dope, right? This song epitomizes what I like about Hip Hop and it isn't even a rap song.

    • Thank you for reading. I know there is a lot here, but if you are looking for good music, this is the place to start.

    ]]>     Sun, 29 Jun 2008 05:01:33 PST     Six “Lesser-Known” Bands You Should Hear Before You Die http://www.musicouch.com/Genres/Rock/Six-Lesser-Known-Bands-You-Should-Hear-Before-You-Die.145105

  • The Posies

    Jon Auer and Ken Stringfellow are perhaps two of the most under-rated musicians of the 90's. They have performed with numerous bands and performers, including R.E.M, Radiohead and Burt Bacharach. They have six full length albums as The Posies and several more in their solo work. Their lyrics and music scream teenage angst and relationship woes, while holding on to the poetic nature of lyrical composition. Find more info here. Must Own Album: Every Kind Of Light.

  • Neutral Milk Hotel

    Jeff Mangum is a genius in his own right. When you first listen to Neutral you will most likely not like it. But the more you listen, you begin to find subtle things in Mangum's music that pull you in. The Lyrics and music tie together with a voice that, although an acquired taste, is worth delving into. Unfortunately only two albums were produced before Neutral was disbanded. Must Own Album: In the Aeroplane Over the Sea.

  • The Decemberists

    Colin Meloy and his crew are perhaps the most interesting bunch of misfits in music today. They dress in period clothing while performing ballads and Sea Chanties about love, loss and revenge. Everything about them says they were born in the wrong time period, but at the same time they are well ahead of their time. Each song is a story, each album is a novel. You can get more info on them here. Must Own Album: Picaresque.

  • The Hush Sound

    Founding Members Bob Morris and Greta Salpeter have created something that everyone should hear. Blending piano, guitar and beautiful harmonies, this band will keep you interested for years to come. Greta and Bob both have fabulous voices that sound just as good solo as they do when they harmonize. You can find them at here. Must Own Album: Like Vines.

  • The Apples In Stereo

    Heavily influenced by the Beach Boys, this band falls under the category of "math rock". Lead singer/songwriter Robert Schneider lulls you into the dream laden world of tin pan alley musicians, and under-sea adventures. Every album is a dive into the unknown that will always leaving you happy and ready for more. You can dive in here. Must own album: Tone Soul Evolution.

  • The Shins

    To quote the movie Garden State, "The Shins will change your life". James Mercer and friends are a force to be reckoned with. With only three albums, several soundtracks and a Grammy behind them they seem to only get better with every subsequent track. The Shins paint a world that you will instantly recognize as your own. Blending several musical styles, they send the listener to places that seem familiar yet foreign at the same time. You can learn more here. Must Own Album: Wincing the Night Away.

    • These bands represent a small niche in the independent labels that are producing more and more groups that either go un-noticed or get looked over due to the commercial industry. This is definitely not a definitive list by any means. You would be surprised how many bands simply die before getting out to the public what they have to offer due to the music industries insistence on "what the public wants". The easiest way to discover some truly wonderful music is to go through your local music shops bargain bin, or pick up a few indie label compilations. You will be happy you did. Some great labels to check out can be found at the following sites: www.subpop.com, www.Elephant6.com, www.rykodisc.com. Don't stop at just these sites, there are many more out there with a lot of untapped potential.

     

    ]]>     Sun, 22 Jun 2008 08:51:56 PST     Glastonbury Has Got It Right http://www.musicouch.com/Live-Music/Music-Festivals/Glastonbury-Has-Got-It-Right.133363 This year's line up for the Glastonbury Festival has got a lot of knickers in a twist. But by twisting the collective knickers of the music snobs they have hit the nail right on the head. I just hope I get filming permission this year! (hint hint- I didn't last year, when The Who were playing. Not that I'd have got an interview with them anyway)

    I know I'm a music snob, and I am the first to admit it. But if Interflora ever introduced a back-patting service, I would send their entire staff down to Worthy Farm at the crack of dawn to award everyone at chez Eavis.

    The controversy over the inclusion of Jay-Z is a good enough place to start. I don't get on with all that hippety hop stuff myself, but Glasto is about diversity and to include a rapper in the line up is representative of that diversity. Although I don't think he should be on the Pyramid stage. Maybe an introduction of a new stage (perhaps 1Xtra could get involved). The only worry is who this will attract to the farm. Before you all gasp, I'm not referring to black people. I'm referring to chavs. I'm sure Jay-Z has a huge following among the tracksuited, capped, bus shelter loitering, White Lightening drinking little brats who can't string a sentence together without saying "innit" afterwards. The presence of chavs will create an atmosphere, usually I'm with Russ Abbott, who loves a party with a happy atmosphere, but a party with a happy atmosphere this won't be. It will be an atmosphere of intimidation and "U dissin me bro innit"

    My usual haunts during the festival are the John Peel stage, the acoustic and the occasional jaunt over to "Other" and even more occasional visits to the main stage. This year, unless there's some clashing in which case I'll flip a coin, I will be making the most effort with...

    Jimmy Cliff, Fun Lovin' Criminals, Buddy Guy, Seasick Steve, The Feeling, The Fratellis, The Cribs, Ting Tings, Joe Lean and the Jing Jang Jong, Panic At The Disco, Vampire Weekend, Holy Fuck, The Wombats, Neville Staple, Neon Neon, The Zutons, The Beat, Dirty Pretty Things, Billy Bragg, Pigeon Detectives, Scouting For Girls, Phill Jupitus, MGMT,Hobo Jones and the Junkyard Dogs.

    Anything else is a bonus. The biggest surprise (some areas of the press call it a "curve ball" others a "wild card". I call it a surprise), is Shakin' Stevens. This sums up the very spirit of the festival, having something on that shouldn't really be on but works so well on a fun, school disco-ish level. Maybe Showaddywaddy next year?

    James Blunt? Will Young? NO! I don't approve of either to be honest. As I said in my bulletin earlier, the world supply of plastic bottle to piss in and throw will engulf and swallow Worthy Farm.

    I also don't really think Kate Nash should be on either, they had the real Lily Allen last year so why have they booked her tribute act? Or is it some package deal to get The Cribs? "Yeeeah, right.....errr.......can me gerrrrlfrend play if we plaaaay?"

    Despite the Blunt/Young mistake there is one other trick that has been missed, and I cannot believe that nobody in the whole organisation thought of it for a last minute curve balling wild card showing surprise. It would have been the camp, kitch talking point of the whole thing, hair would be collectively let down and every body would have partied like it was 1987! The biggest GLOBAL star of this year, who despite his new found superstardom, would have been cheap. Not only cheap, but cheerful. I don't for a minute think he should be on the main stage, but hidden away somewhere on the bill. Somebody who is absolutely NOT Glastonbury material, but would have given off the ironic, let's pretend we're kids malarkey off brilliantly. Rick Astley. He of the Rick-rolling bonanza that has wasted time with a gusto that you can only achieve by something so daft, but so effective. Next year it'll be too late and the moment will have passed. But if the rumours have any glimmer of truth about them, and this is the last Glastonbury, then the Eavis family will forever be thinking "what if?"

    ]]>     Wed, 04 Jun 2008 01:59:41 PST     Nine Big Indie Albums of 2008 http://www.musicouch.com/Genres/Rock/Nine-Big-Indie-Albums-of-2008.123187

  • Hadouken! - Music For An Accelerated Culture

    (New Rave/Electro/Rock) Although being lorded constantly by NME magazine, the Londoners live up the hype spectacularly, producing exhilarating electro music that you can't help but shout along to. Particular highlights include ‘Liquid Lives', ‘That Boy That Girl', and the current single: ‘Declaration Of War', although it's a travesty that ‘Leap Of Faith' does not merit a proper release on the album. 9/10

  • The Wombats - A Guide To Love, Loss, and Desperation

    (Rock/Pop/Indie) The irresistible ‘Kill The Director' launched the Liverpudlians into the deep end, listeners being physically unable to resist belting out ‘This Is No, Bridget Jones', but the Wombats have developed this feel-good rock into an amazing album, a definite contender for album of 2008 already, whilst ‘Moving To New York', can be a similar contender for song of the year. Personal favourites include ‘School Uniforms', a satirical view on puberty; NME's dancefloor track of 2007 ‘Let's Dance To Joy Division', and the unsung ‘Derail and Crash'. A must buy. 10/10

  • The Kooks - Konk

    (Indie/Rock) The hotly-anticipated second album from the Brighton quartet does not disappoint. The first single ‘Always Where I Need To Be' leads on from the foundations put in place by ‘Inside In/Inside Out', with the creases ironed out superbly. ‘Stormy Weather' sounds like an improved ‘Sofa Song', and with the upbeat ‘Do You Wanna' and ‘Mister Maker', there's something for everyone. The stand-out track, however, is ‘Sway', a slower song which builds up into a crescendo of guitars, drums and Luke's grinding vocals. People who appreciate the first album will love their second offering. 9/10

  • The Courteeners - St Jude

    (Indie/Rock) The Mancurian's debut album lives up their lead vocalist's self-proclaimed hype. Grinding vocals, and a rawness that can only come from a newly-formed band is evident right from ‘Aftershow'. Catchy guitar riffs and powerful vocals, in their two releases ‘What Took You So Long?', and ‘Not Nineteen Forever' act as an effective foil for the rest of the album, whilst ‘Please Don't' and ‘No You Didn't, No You Don't' are surely future releases. 8/10

  • Get Cape. Wear Cape. Fly - Searching For The Hows and Whys

    (Acoustic/Indie) Sam Duckworth's second album provides a greater insight into his political thoughts and opinions, and whilst the songs themselves are not necessarily uplifting, they are poignant in their delivery. His lyrics are paramount and expertly expressed. ‘Postcards From Catalunya' and ‘Keep Singing Out', are the most powerful songs and are deserving of much higher status than Get Cape currently gets. If you get the chance, check out his cover of Justice's ‘D.A.N.C.E.', which is amazing, considering that all he uses is an acoustic guitar and a drum. 7/10

  • The Last Shadow Puppets - The Age of the Understatement

    (Indie) Alex Turner's latest music conquest sees him partnered Miles Kane from The Rascals in a strings/rock combo that whilst impressive on paper, lacks the punchiness of a Arctic Monkey's song, and mainly consists of Turner turning over ballad after ballad, each similar to the other. Quite disappointing, though ‘Age of the Understatement' is unquestionably the hightlight. 6/10

  • Does It Offend You, Yeah? - You Have No Idea What You're Getting Into

    (Electro/Rock/Indie) The electro quartet from Reading have come up with a gem of an album, seamlessly linking pure electro with traditional rock. The highlights are numerous, including the inventively named: ‘Attack of the 60ft Octopus'. Their upcoming single, ‘Epic Last Song', is one of the more rocky-sounding tunes, which is a relief from the intense ‘We Are Rockstars', both outstanding in their own right. Other highlights include; ‘Battle Royale' and ‘Let's Make Out', whilst their cover of Devo's ‘Whip It', is well worth a listen. A recommended buy. 9/10

  • We Are Scientists - Brain Thrust Mastery

    (Rock/Indie) After losing their drummer, We Are Scientists have come up with a completely different theme for their new album. On initial listening, you feel that they have changed for the worse, but upon further listening, you can begin to appreciate their change from outwardly rock to more lyrical. ‘After Hours' is a great opening song, and the current single: ‘Chick Lit', is also worth a listen. Other good songs include ‘Lethal Enforcer' and ‘Let's See It'. Different to ‘With Love and Squalor', but still as fulfilling. Also, check out their music videos, which are generally worth a laugh. 8/10

  • Nickelback - All The Right Reasons

    (Rock) It's been out for three years in the US, but Chad Kroeger and Co. From Vancouver have only just released this in the UK. Summed up in one word: WOW. Every song deserves merit in its own right, ‘Rockstar' achieving substantial success over here, with its unassuming irony and catchy lyrics (and Radio 1's strange censoring of the word ‘Drugs'.). They explore the slow ballad amazingly, my personal two favourite tracks being ‘Savin' Me' and ‘Photograph', goliaths in the slower rhythm and building up a crescendo of guitars and emotion. The sexually-based ‘Animals', is a typical Nickelback track, with fast paced rhythm and witty lyrics. I could find no negatives with the album, except that it's only eleven tracks, be that eleven tracks of unparalleled quality. 10/10
    • ]]>     Mon, 12 May 2008 03:48:23 PST     Promising New Indie Band Emerges http://www.musicouch.com/Genres/Rock/Promising-New-Indie-Band-Emerges.101393 Southern Orange County certainly has a diverse local music scene. But among the charred remains of hardcore metal screamers and the dubious drummers too drunk to keep time lies a glimmer of hope. This hope shines forth in the form of six young people representing all that is good in the local indie scene. These six saviors of local music are called Oliver Jane.

    Why does Oliver Jane stand above the rest? Because they have happened upon a secret that will rock the music industry forever, they're good at what they do. These kids know how to play. Though half of them are still in high school, these are the most talented kids to come out of the OC. First, let's go over who makes up Oliver Jane. Their two singers complement each other perfectly and saturate their audience in a euphonious sound to send them to a better place. Following this up with an incredibly talented bass player who shows off his skills on a classical upright makes Oliver Jane phisically stand out among other bands. Combine this with a violin, a viola, and two percussionists (as opposed to a drummer) and you've got a groove that stops at no station.

    What else makes Oliver Jane stand out against the typical OC local band? Their genre. South Orange County is the home of endless screamo bands making you deaf and emo bands making you cry. Oliver Jane mixes things up a bit. Their official genre is "acoustic indie gypsy rock," and any listener will tell you that this label fits them perfectly. Their songs have different influences from around the globe. Their self released EP includes their most popular title, "Passeporte," which gives the illusion of relaxing in a french cafe as the bi-lingual vocals set the mood. Their next song, "Pink Giraffe", holds influences from eastern europe, and personally reminds me of the first bar-mitzfah I ever attended. Their third and final song on the EP is Original. No, the name of the track is "Original" and it holds a South American influence that causes crowds to have sudden realizations that they love to dance. The EP is available on iTunes.

    Oliver Jane is a fairly new phenomenon that actually began off our fair shores. The band is actually the brain child of the two lead singers while they were in Ireland. They posted their experemental songs on Myspace and came home to an astonishing fan base. The band soon grew to include a double bassist, violist, and dual percussionists.

    No words can truely express how much Orange County needed a band like Oliver Jane. So the only way to truley understand the ingenuity of the fastest rising indie band in Orange County is to see them live. They play numberous local shows in and around the OC, so check out their Myspace for a complete list of upcoming shows. It will restore your hope in the future of music.

    ]]>     Sun, 30 Mar 2008 01:49:48 PST