Friday, October 31, 2008

Today's Moment of Zen: Happy Halloween, suckers!


(Click on ANTI- recording artist Tim Fite's masterful creation above and you'll be redirected to his Web site, where he is offering up 12 free Halloween-themed MP3s for the taking!)

Sunday, October 26, 2008

sys29 :: WHISKEY, MYSTICS AND LADY LOVERS

Matt, accept the fact that your "witty" anecdotes accompanying these "awesome" mix tapes have become increasingly far too personal. There is no possible way that Joe Sixpack, reading this from his sports memorabilia-infested "man cave," could possibly benefit from any of this. --Sincerely, [REDACTED]

Eat me. --"Anonymous"

1. Green Day - "'The Simpsons' Theme"
I've been on quite the "Simpsons" kick lately, so please excuse these "excursions."

2. The Melismatics - "Modern Machines"
At the insistence of the incendiary St. Paul post-punkers in Maudlin, I gave the Melismatics a chance. I liked. Then came along the group's new album, "The Acid Test," and it blew me away. This track, in particular, is [EXPLETIVE DELETED]-ing brilliant. Not in the way Brian Wilson is brilliant, but in the way the boys in Better Than Ezra are brilliant. -> Triumphant pop tendencies that will undoubtedly stand the test of time.

3. The Hourly Radio - "Please Forget"
Almost sounds like a sequel (prequel?) to "Modern Machines," though it lacks the immortal backing vocals of Pony Hixon-Smith.

4. Crooked Fingers - "Call to Love" [MP3]
I'm well aware that Eric Bachmann is good for more than just this song, but I just can't help it: This is unforgettable music.

5. Del the Funky Homosapien - "Positive Contact"
If all you know of Del is the "Deltron Z" cameo on the first Gorillaz album, this is a terrific introduction to his accomplished solo career.

6. Madvillian - "No Brain"
If "BioShock" were a hip-hop song, this would be it. (At least the intro is similarly unnerving.)

7. The Cool Kids - "Delivery Man" [MP3]
For the inaugural Mountain Dew Green Label Sound free MP3 single, the Cool Kids *ahem* deliver. I'd like to write something more profound about this hip-hop track's throwback sound (organs?!), but, hell, crappy puns are just easier.

8. Open Choir Fire - "Things You Have to Do"
Nice indie rock sound. A little faceless, but nice.

9. Lagwagon - "Falling Apart" [MP3]
These guys are always good for a laugh: "Hello / Welcome to the show / Thought we broke up years ago."

10. Matt and Kim - "Daylight" [MP3]
The second free MP3 single in the aforementioned Mountain Dew Green Label Sound series. As far as free things go, this easily gets an "A+."

11. Eric Alexandrakis - "Stalker Fever (No Sleeping in the Park)"
Is it wrong I find this song's concept so amusing? (To be clear, these tracks were all selected because I enjoy listening to them; but, because Alexandrakis' sound is so hard to categorize, I thought I'd take the easy way out and comment on the song title instead.... My apologies.)

12. Rush - "Entre Nous"
Translated: "Between ourselves, confidentially." Translated, loosely (by me): "Keep it like a secret" and/or "Don't tell a soul."

13. R.E.M. - "Mr. Richards"
I wasn't the biggest fan of "Around the Sun," but "Accelerate" definitely finds these Georgia rock gods heading back in the right direction. This one would fit in nicely between "New Adventures in Hi-Fi" and "Up."

14. Dr. Pepper Family - "Pop Will Eat Itself" [MP3]
My favorite Belgian rock group is back, and with an excellent new single to boot!

15. Girls Like Cigarettes - "Combustible You" [MP3]
Rides a Stuard Davis-esque wave of radio-ready pop, but, like that enigmatic singer/songwriter's works, the lyrics aren't typical Top 40 fare: "For better or worse / You exploded first."

16. Plasticines - "Mr. Driver"
Haven't been able to pull yourself out of bed since Elastica called it quits? Well, your mailbox is in luck, as this excellent female-fronted post-punk outfit from Paris will have you running down to your local record store. (On your way out the door, don't forget to see the Postal Service's lovely cramming and stacking abilities....)

17. Passion Pit - "Live to Tell the Tale"
For fans of the New Monarchs, the Postal Service (the duo, not the government organization forgettably referenced above).

18. The Standard - "The Swimmer" [MP3]
Lest I totally beat my adoration for this group into the ground, all I'll say this go-round is, "Excellence, redefined."

19. The Boat People - "Unsettle My Heart"
An aural smorgasboard that somehow makes sense.

20. Laika and the Cosmonauts - "Psyko"
Thanks, W.D., for introducing me to another great track -- long live college radio and those who listened to Man or Astro-man? growing up! (Doesn't require an obsession with Alfred Hitchcock to enjoy, but, as was the case with yours truly, you'll probably enjoy it doubly if you identify your hobbies as such.)

21. Blitzen Trapper - "Furr"
Tonight from Comparison Central ... sounds like Storyhill covering the Beatles (circa "Rubber Soul"), with a hint of Nouvelle Vague's take on Echo and the Bunnymen's "The Killing Moon."

22. Nikka Costa - "Stuck to You"
This Janis Joplin-channeling funk soul sister (?) is back, and as enjoyable as ever.

23. Darlings of the Day - "Hallucination Generation"
Like the Pixies? Do ya? Me too. And apparently these two rising stars do as well.

Thus concludes your twenty-ninth dose of SHAKE*YOUR*SHORES, the awesome mix tape series formerly known as "Don't Tell a Soul."

Friday, October 24, 2008

Lucinda Williams, Germs, New Monarchs, Cannon, Rubber Chicken Radio (in Hell) and Bambi slaughter!


Reading (and writing) is fun!

"Live from Hell, It's Rubber Chicken Radio" :: There are a couple reasons Brian Matuszak has done 20-odd radio specials in the last five years. Some, you’ll find, are more noble than others. An interview with the funnyman.

"After Homegrown, Halloween Weekend is King"
:: A list of all the Halloween/All Saints Day concerts we know of, from the star-studded Bob Dylan tribute band at the Brewhouse to the all-ages "Halloween Rockathon" at Superior's World of Wheels.

"CD Reviews: Cannon, Lucinda Williams and the New Monarchs" :: Reviewed this week: Cannon All American’s “DCC Reloaded,” Lucinda Williams' "Little Honey" and the New Monarchs' "Blueprints."

"DVD Review: Germs Biopic Worth the Wait" :: Rodger Grossman’s Germs biopic, “What We Do is Secret," provides an insider's look at one of the most influential bands of the punk era. DuluthBudgeteer.com exclusive!

View my photos of the Vote Yes for Kids rally at Historic Old Central Tuesday evening here and here.

Finally, while deer hunting is something I don't agree with, Matt Suoja's story on the matter has a picture of mine. (Hunt the hunters, poor Bambi!)

Thus concludes THIS WEEK'S SHAMELESS BUDGETEER PLUG!

Thursday, October 23, 2008

sys28 :: JUB JUB THE TROUBLED M.F.


I'm sad: Walt Dizzo's KUWS radio show (only the best in the Twin Ports) has been pre-empted for SPORTS. And I'm not talkin' 'bout no Huey Lewis album ... oh, the humanity! Nevertheless, we will soldier on, and these 22 glorious tracks are sure to make it a little easier. Jebus be praised!

1. The Terrordactyls - "Decoration Daniel"
I don't know if you know this, but these Seattle kids -- sorry, Vashon Island kids -- recently played a show at Duluth's Bohemia Arts (the venue's first, actually) with Bri from Best Friends Forever and the Tangier 57 side project Perfectini, and it was utterly inspiring. I haven't experienced such a solid performance since, probably, Dance Band at Diorama-rama 3. And this is how they started their set. Hail!

2. Hand Over Fist - "Hand Over Fist"
I still can't get over how mind-blowing a majority of the Hand Over Fist debut is. Mike Mictlan and Lazerbeak oughta be mighty proud of themselves.

3. Bluebird - "Falling Back to Earth"
The definition of power.

4. Slim Whitman - "I Remember You"
After a certain ultraviolent montage in "House of 1,000 Corpses," I can't listen to this song without getting a weird chill. Still, this beauty's going right up there on my "spreading of my ashes at Gooseberry and Estes Park" mix tape. Quite morbid, no?

5. The Handsome Family - "So Much Wine"
Along similar lines to that previous C&W classic, this modern tale of tragedy is 100 percent beautiful. A recommened listen. (Not like the rest of these aren't....)

6. Nirvana - "On a Plain"
Supposedly inspired by "The Stranger." Regardless, it didn't take that knowledge to draw me to this track in elementary school, and it's not necessary now either.

7. The Dames - "Outside"
Like a "Falling Back to Earth" slowed down and formatted for extensive radio play. Why oh why isn't Tony Bennett a multimillionaire yet?

8. Tub Ring - "Friends and Enemies"
I'm not a violent person, but this relentless track kind of makes me want to break something.

9. The Beatles - "I'm Looking Through You"
Recently covered by folk rock duo Storyhill (only the best!) at their University of Minnesota Duluth performance. Weber Hall sure has some great acoustics, eh?

10. Beloved Binge - "(Got) Married on MySpace"
For fans of Grnd Ntl Brnds, the Geraldine Fibbers and myriad Calvin Johnson projects (most notably his work with Built to Spill's Doug Martsch in the Halo Benders), this is truly a great "find." Though technically they found me....

11. Mindless Self Indulgence - "Never Wanted to Dance"
For whatever reason, I feel this group's sound would really go over well with the Norm's Beer and Brats crowd. Hey, Screaming Mechanical Brain played there!

12. Jake One feat. Posdnuos and Slug - "Oh Really"
Despite what I said in my review of "White Van Music," hearing members of Atmosphere and De La Soul together on one track is pretty amazing. And Slug's lines, while "phoned in," are some of his best.

13. David Bowie - "Never Get Old"
The Thin White Duke never ceases to amaze. Seriously, how has he kept it up for so many decades?

14. Death Cab for Cutie - "Long Division"
A more-aggressive DCfC? I like.

15. The Wannadies - "You and Me Song"
A staple of these here mix tapes.

16. The Greycoats - "Goodbye, Sweet Youth, Goodbye"
Kinda like Keane, but we won't hold that against these "melodramatic" Minnesota boys.

17. Black Francis - "You Can't Break a Heart and Have It"
Why can't Kim Deal make music as fresh as this anymore?

18. White Zombie - "Electric Head, Pt. 2 (The Ecstasy)"
I miss the good ol' days....

19. Five Man Electrical Band - "Signs"
Thanks, Peter Fonda, for selling your soul to TimeLife and helping me remember what a terrific song this is. (The first part was sarcastic, definitely not the second.)

20. Brendan Benson - "Maginary Girl"
He makes it seem so ... effortless.

21. Best Friends Forever - "Loneliness Song"
Seeing as how I used to be in a fake gang with these girls, I'm sure I'm at least a little partial, but, damn, this has to be some of the finest indie pop the planet has ever heard.

22. The New Monarchs - "You'll Always Know"
Needless to say, I loved "Blueprints": While there’s not a bum note in the bucket, some immediate standouts for curious potential listeners would be “Common,” for fans of “Com Lag”-era Radiohead; the IDM-tastic “No Commotion,” which shines on like a quirky Valet diamond; and “You’ll Always Know,” which is quite possibly the most gorgeous track I’ve heard in months.

Thus concludes your twenty-eighth dose of SHAKE*YOUR*SHORES, the awesome mix tape series formerly known as "Don't Tell a Soul."

Monday, October 20, 2008

A&E FYI: Radiohead 'In Rainbows' sales data revealed

RADIOHEAD: IN RAINBOWS SALES DATA REVEALED


Little more than a year since Radiohead's October 10, 2007 pay-what-you-like self-release of its seventh album, In Rainbows, some conclusive statistics were made available at the recent "You Are In Control" conference in Reykjavik, Iceland.

For those who missed coverage of the conference while engrossed in something as trivial as the Presidential Debates or the world economic collapse, the following is a summation of key answers to FAQs:

* In Rainbows has sold three million copies thus far, a figure that includes downloads from Radiohead.com, physical CDs, a deluxe 2-CD/vinyl box set, as well as sales via iTunes and other digital retailers.

* The In Rainbows deluxe edition sold 100,000 copies via Radiohead fan service W.A.S.T.E.

* Radiohead made more money prior to In Rainbows' January 2008 physical release than its total take on 2003's Hail To the Thief.

* The physical release of In Rainbows entered both the US and UK charts at #1 in January, despite having been freely available since October 2007.

* In Rainbows was the first Radiohead album available on iTunes, where it went in at #1 in January, selling 30,000 in its first week.

In Rainbows also owns the singular distinction of being the first record widely regarded as album of the year in advance of its actual physical release: By the time TBD/ATO released In Rainbows to retail on January 1, 2008, the digital version had already topped the 2007 year-end lists at NEW YORK, THE NEW YORK TIMES, ENTERTAINMENT WEEKLY, NPR, TIME, PEOPLE, ROLLING STONE, BLENDER, SPIN, THE LOS ANGELES TIMES and many more.

Radiohead recently concluded a world tour in Japan, one that sold over 1.2 million tickets.

~Information courtesy Nasty Little Man

Saturday, October 18, 2008

sys27 :: TROUBLED SOULS UNITED


The Endorsement: Claeys Candy's green apple old-fashioned hard candies. Straight outta South Bend, Ind., I couldn't imagine a better "JR" alternative than these suckers.

Anyway....

1. Hand Over Fist - "Northstarrr"
When Doomtree's Mike Mictlan and Aaron "Lazerbeak" Mader combine forces, they are ... Hand Over Fist. Some of the most imaginative hip-hop you'll hear all year.

2. The Pink Spiders - "Busy Signals"
Check out the Pink Spiders "survival pack" -- it even comes with a "Sweat It Out" condom! This obviously has nothing to do with their music, but I've always been a sucker for gimmicky record promotions.

3. Red Hot Chili Peppers - "My Friends"
Since I've been railing against these guys so much lately, I thought I'd be fair and acknowledge that, for at least the "One Hot Minute" album, RHCP was once one of my favorite bands. I sure do miss 1995 sometimes....

4. the marcgartband - "Back with You"
As I first stated in my review of the new Two Many Banjos disc and the marcgartband debut (quote follows), things are golden all over for Marc Gartman: Other highlights on this unexpected gem — which, like “Give Me Time,” was masterfully put to tape by Rich Mattson in his Sparta Sound studio — include “The New Seventeen,” a great one to play when you’re having a pre-midlife crisis; "Who Decides,” an epic track featuring Zenith City rock god Alan Sparhawk; and “Back with You,” which, in my humble opinion, is all the proof I need to refer to Gartman as a musical genius in casual conversation.

5. Kritical Kontact feat. Mac Lethal - "Rap Song"
Same goes for the boys in local hip-hop outfit Kritical Kontact. An excerpt from my review of "Evolution of Revolution": But the album’s true shining hour is “Rap Song,” which was masterfully pieced together by Unknown Prophets and Kanser contributor Big Jess. I may be a little biased, though, as the hit-single-in-waiting features Rhymesayers recording artist Mac Lethal, one of my favorite emcees making the rounds today.

6. Mercury Rev - "Senses on Fire" [MP3]
I've always been a bigger fan of Dave Fridmann as Flaming Lips co-producer than Mercury Rev bassist, but, with this epic, pulsating track, that's all starting to change.

7. Rogue Wave - "Like I Needed" [MySpace Transmissions vers.] [MP3]
Rogue Wave = best soundtrack to autumn. Ever.

8. Moth - "Sticks and Stones"
Recommended if you like the Impossibles, Submerge, Weezer, the Danburrys, Motion City Soundtrack and all the rest of the similarly fun bands.

9. George Bush quote - "I Know the Human Being and Fish Can Co-Exist Peacefully"
Given my "jaded" review of Barton Sutter's "Bushed" this week, I just thought it was fitting.

10. The Impossibles - "Connecticut"
You can't live without love ... er, loving this band, so here are some free MP3s: "Oxygen," "Enter/Return" and "Widowmaker."

11. Lagwagon - "Memoirs and Landmines" [MP3]
There's plenty more free MP3s where that came from, at Fat Wreck Chords' Web site. Bouncy punk you won't be too ashamed to listen to.

12. Ima Robot - "Black Jettas"
"Tim, Me and Oli have problems / Justin has none."

13. Zwan - "Come with Me"
I'm still a little sour this whole Zwan experiment didn't pan out.... Damn Billy Corgan and his big ego!

14. Sonic Youth - "Bull in the Heather"
Random FYI -- according to Wikipedia, at least: ["Bull in the Heather"] was named after a racehorse from a bumper sticker given to Thurston and Kim from Bob Nastanovich of Pavement.

15. Boys Life - "A Quarter's Worth"
For fans of Decembers Architects?

16. Imbroco - "Northstar is an Airplane" [MP3]
No, this is a good one for fans of Decembers Architects. Or the Plastic Constellations, too, I guess.

17. The Sea and Cake - "Car Alarm"
Since I'm out of words -- it's Saturday morning, for [EXPLETIVE DELETED]'s sake -- I'll turn the mic over to John Corbett, who had this to say about the Sea and Cake's new album: "Car Alarm" is the sound of a well-oiled band. Heavy hitters. Listen to the intricate intertwining strings of Sam Prekop and Archer Prewitt and you’ll hear the frontline of a working unit that has moved seamlessly from the stage to the studio and back.

18. Passion Pit - "Sleepyhead" [MP3]
If Kanye West were to produce a track by the Avalanches, you might get something like "Sleepyhead." As for the vocals, I can't quite place them. Sorry.

19. Chromeo - "Outta Sight"
If you dig around Vice Records' Web site long enough, you'll find loads of free Chromeo downloads.

20. Dear and the Headlights - "Talk About"
Some funny material from this group's Download.com profile: Yes, they admit their name is "annoying." The same can't be said of their sound, which follows in the well-shined, hook-heavy footsteps of the Bravery (for whom they've opened). Far-left indie rockers may beware the polish; most of us will just sing along.

21. Storyhill - "Somewhere in Between"
Heard recently at this impeccable duo's return engagement at the University of Minnesota Duluth Weber Music Hall. (For a review of their 2007 show there, read "Storyhill Does Duluth, or: Weber's $10M Price Tag Finally Pays Off.")

22. Yeltzi - "Get Up and Dance"
To plagiarize myself again, Sara Softich and Jason Wussow's upbeat and unavoidable "Get Up and Dance" is sure to be a staple of all tomorrow's weddings.

23. The Terrordactyls feat. Best Friends Forever - "Friendship"
Download the Terrordactyls' first two LPs on their Web site. If you like what you hear -- and I have no doubt that you will -- consider buying some of the unique items in the Terrordactyls store.

24. The Get Up Kids - "The Dark Night of the Soul"
There are no words; this is just glorious music.

Thus concludes your twenty-seventh dose of SHAKE*YOUR*SHORES, the awesome mix tape series formerly known as "Don't Tell a Soul." (No, no, Paul Westerberg didn't threaten to sue me or anything....)

Friday, October 17, 2008

Drew Danburry: 'I wouldn’t really know how to describe it without being ridiculously flippant'


He's quite a character, isn't he? In "Drew Danburry on the Reality of Being a Touring Musician," the Utah troubadour gets candid with the Budgeteer and explains what it's really like to take cross-country "vacations" for a living. And, to honor this monumentous interview -- Danburry is someone I admire greatly -- I've rounded up all my past coverage of this talented singer/songwriter: This includes a show preview from way back and reviews of his albums "An Introduction to Sex Rock," "Besides...," "Live in France!" and the "Mother" EP. (If I come across any other articles I've written about him in the past, I'll definitely let you know.)

Elsewhere in the bin...

"Former City Councilor Squares Off Against 32-Year Incumbent" :: For the latest installment in the Budgeteer’s election coverage, we look at the highly contested race between Chris Dahlberg and Bill Kron. They are competing for the St. Louis County Board’s Third District seat, which Kron has held for more than 30 years.

"Performance Review: Barton Sutter's 'Bushed' Not for Everybody" :: Having just sat through Barton Sutter's collaboration with Rubber Chicken Theater, “Bushed: A Poetical, Political, Partly Musical Tragicomedy in Two Acts,” I’m pretty certain "Bush is dumb" was the only theme holding together the 42-scene sprawling mess.

"Discover Duluth: Billings Park, Vol. II-IV" :: "Discover Duluth" returns to Superior's crown jewel in a big way: three photo galleries! Probably my best photo outing yet, so I do hope you check them out. (This week's "poster" is an outtake from these sets.) DuluthBudgeteer.com exclusive!

"Discover Duluth: Haunted Shack 2008" :: As a testament to Pat Stojevich’s knack for cooking up new nightmares from year to year, the scare junkies keep coming back to his Haunted Shack in Morgan Park. DuluthBudgeteer.com exclusive!

"Discover Duluth: Autumn in 'The Park'" :: Of all Duluth’s celebrated neighborhoods, Morgan Park is the most impressive when it comes to all-out leafy goodness. DuluthBudgeteer.com exclusive!

Finally, this week's cover shot, "Never Forget," can be seen by clicking on "Remembering Victims of Domestic Violence." A 400-yard tribute to the 643 victims of domestic violence in the state of Minnesota since 1988 was held up by volunteers Thursday afternoon on Lakewalk as part of Domestic Violence Awareness Month. It was an awe-inspiring display, made possible by people like KUWS DJ Walt Dizzo, Margot Presley and ... well, I didn't recognize anyone else, but there were probably more than 100 volunteers on hand -- congrats to them all!

Oh, I almost forgot, I also reviewed some albums this week: City on the Make’s “$1,000,000” EP, King Khan and the Shrines’ “The Supreme Genius of…” and Terry Lynn’s “Kingston Logic 2.0.” DuluthBudgeteer.com exclusive!

Elsewhere in the archives...

When I was searching through my clips for those "vintage" Danburry CD reviews, I came across "A Comic Career," which details "The Simpsons"/"The Critic"/"Queer Duck" writer Mike Reiss' visit to UMD back in '02. Since I've been on something of an "America's Favorite Family" kick lately, I decided to type it up (the article originally appeared in The Statesman) and share it with the world. Hope you enjoy it!

Thus concludes THIS WEEK'S SHAMELESS BUDGETEER PLUG!

Thursday, October 16, 2008

A&E FYI: The Coup's Boots Riley to open Tom Morello solo tour starting Nov. 1

Illuminative Tour Followed by Two Appearances with Meshell Ndegeocello

After marching together at the Democratic National Convention and playing together at both the DNC and the RNC, Boots Riley (the Coup) and Tom Morello (Rage Against the Machine, the Nightwatchman) are going on tour together. The famed guitarist and activist has tapped the incendiary political MC to be main support on his North American tour, beginning on November 1st in San Francisco.

On November 3rd, Riley and Morello will play a Get Out the Vote rally and concert in Seattle WA, alongside Pearl Jam’s Stone Gossard and Mike McCready and other special guests. The show is part of a larger effort by all the artists involved to energize young voters in this historic election.

Following the three week tour with Morello, Boots will then play two shows with 10-time Grammy nominated Meshell Ndegeocello in San Francisco and Los Angeles.

A lifelong activist, raised, residing and educating in Oakland CA, Boots Riley will be the keynote speaker at the 2008 Practical Activism Conference at the University of California, Santa Cruz on October 25th. Riley’s work, which ranges from local issues in the Bay Area – such as his efforts alongside other human rights organizations to block California’s Proposition 21 -- to international concerns – such as his participation the World Conference Against Racism – has set “an unprecedented standard of political organizing among hip hop artists” (College Nine and College Ten).

With titles such as Steal This Album, Kill My Landlord and Genocide & Juice, the Coup (founded in 1991 by Boots Riley and DJ Pam the Funkstress) has always been a vehicle for Riley’s outspoken political beliefs. The Coup are currently in the studio, recording the follow-up to their 2006 Epitaph debut Pick A Bigger Weapon.

Boots Riley on tour with Tom Morello:

11.01.08 - San Francisco, CA (The Fillmore)
11.02.08 - Portland, OR (Wonder Ballroom)
11.03.08 - Seattle, WA (Showbox Theatre)*
11.05.08 - Vancouver, BC (Commodore Ballroom)
11.07.08 - Salt Lake City, UT (The Depot)
11.08.08 - Aspen, CO (Belly Up Aspen)
11.08.08 - Boulder, CO (Fox Theater)
11.11.08 - Minneapolis, MN (Fine Line Music Café)
11.12.08 - Milwaukee, WI (Turner Hall Ballroom)
11.13.08 - Indianapolis, IN (The Vogue)
11.15.08 - Detroit, MI (Majestic Theater)
11.16.08 - Toronto, ONT (Opera House)
11.17.08 - Boston, MA (Middle East)
11.19.08 - Baltimore, MD (Sonar)
11.20.08 – Philadelphia, PA (Electric Factory)
11.21.08 - New York, NY (The Fillmore NY at Irving Plaza)
12.07.08 – San Francisco, CA (The Fillmore)**
12.08.08 – Los Angeles, CA (House of Blues)**

* Get Out The Vote Show w/ Tom Morello & members of Pearl Jam

** with Meshell Ndegeocello

~Information courtesy Epitaph

Tuesday, October 14, 2008

A&E FYI: Beastie Boys (and friends!) touring the battleground states

BEASTIE BOYS & FRIENDS ANNOUNCE SWING STATE VOTER AWARENESS TOUR
Selected Dates in Battleground States

Beastie Boys have confirmed selected dates through the crucial swing states of the upcoming election. Joining the band in various markets will be Sheryl Crow, Ben Harper, Jack Johnson, Norah Jones, Crosby & Nash, Santogold, Tenacious D, and special guests, as well as representatives from the Rock The Vote, who will be on hand to distribute information on local polling sites, including early voting locations where available.

The first three shows to be announced are:

Oct 28 Richmond, VA - Richmond Coliseum
Beastie Boys/Jack Johnson/Norah Jones/Santogold


Nov 1 St. Paul, MN - Roy Wilkins Auditorium
Beastie Boys/Ben Harper/Tenacious D



Nov 2 Milwaukee, WI - U.S. Cellular Arena

Beastie Boys/Ben Harper/Crosby & Nash/Tenacious D

Check www.beastieboys.com for on sale times and info.

~Information courtesy Nasty Little Man PR

Sunday, October 12, 2008

Today's Moment of Zen: Fear of a Republican planet

sys26 :: A NEW CAREER IN A NEW TOWN


Songs to keep you entertained while it remains very Seattle-esque outside....

1. Pearl Jam - "Leash"
The most powerful PJ track ever recorded. Really brings me back to my "angst-y" days.

2. Terry Lynn - "Kingstonlogic" [Angry Mix]
Imagine if Basement Jaxx's "Crazy Itch Radio" disc had been overseen by KMFDM's menacing mastermind Sascha K....

3. Del the Funky Homosapien - "Things You Can Do"
Pardon my "French," but I can't f------ believe this is Ice Cube's cousin! Recommended if you miss the playful nature of the Gorillaz debut.

4. Bob Dylan - "Step It Up and Go" [Blind Boy Fuller cover]
The only good thing about the ridiculous film "Just Add Water." Well, besides the stunning Tracy Middendorf, that is.

5. Hobo Nephews of Uncle Frank - "Any Decent Dog's Dream"
My CD reviews don't lie: The brothers Alexy strike gold with this lovable Teague-penned composition, which centers around the unspoken bond the musician shares with his dog Diego and some humorous (mis)adventures they have shared in Holyoke, Minn. Maybe it’s just my wife, a proud owner of “The Dog Bible,” rubbing off on me, but I couldn’t help but smile when I heard “Any Decent Dog’s Dream.” As far as storyteller songs go, they don’t get much more heartfelt than this.

6. Zwan - "Baby Let's Rock!"
Say what you want about the "Great Pumpkin," but he's still good for at least a few tracks every couple years.

7. Air - "Alpha Beta Gaga"
For everybody's favorite French duo, this is hard hitting. Like PJ Olsson's "The Whistle Song" meets a slightly toned-down Death in Vegas.

8. The Boy Least Likely To - "I Box Up All the Butterflies" [MP3]
Pure joy.

9. Islands - "Don't Call Me Whitney, Bobby"
In the spirit of Ween, here's another f----- jam for the masses.

10. The Format - "The First Single"
The perfect single? Pretty damn close.

11. Nirvana - "Very Ape"
The mighty K.C. meant a lot of things to a lot of different people, but I'll always remember him for his intense song structures. Fifteen years later and this song hasn't lost one bit of its edge.

12. Weezer - "It's Easy"
For once, Brian Bell gets center stage!

13. JJ72 - "Algeria"
Fact (of the literary kind): Meursault killed an Arab in Algiers. <- Just something to think about when you're caught up in the moment.

14. Seed Math - "Planet Earth"
Anyone for doomsday? Experimental end-of-times fun from Anthony Bennett, the Cars & Trucks/Dames/Bloodstool mastermind.

15. Michael Franti and Spearhead - "Soundsystem"
If you'll remember, I sure liked the "All Rebel Rockers" album. Won't you join me in this politically charged dance party?

16. Kanye West feat. Consequence and Cam'ron - "Gone"
I'm stumped ... how can you put into words musical bliss? I can't get over how amazing this record is. Even the guest shots fit into the impeccable framework of this track.

17. Loudon Wainwright III - "Motel Blues"
A complete 180, I know, but it takes wholly unforgettable storytelling to bump against something like "Gone."

18. Federal Weights and Measures - "Indiana Highway" [Live on Radio K]
Next time you're blazing down the highway, you better be listening to this road anthem. (I'm just full of empty threats, aren't I?)

19. The Long Winters - "Scent of Lime"
Recommended if you like Built to Spill pre-"jam band mode."

20. Jeremy Messersmith - "Franklin Avenue"
Again, I'd like to use a lifeline and refer to one of my Budgeteer CD reviews: Everything that made “Alcatraz” such a revelation — namely Messersmith’s fascination with the late great Elliott Smith’s skill set (see “Franklin Avenue”) — is still present on “The Silver City,” but there’s an extra layer of polish that will help the troubadour reach greater audiences.

21. Sparrow - "This is How it's Done"
Back in the day there was Zumpano. It featured Carl "A.C." Newman and Jason Zumpano. After they called it a day, Newman formed the New Pornographers and Zumpano re-emerged with this oh-so-glorious act. Hail.

Thus concludes your twenty-sixth dose of SHAKE*YOUR*SHORES, the awesome mix tape series formerly known as "Mister Tibbs!" No, wait, that doesn't sound right....

Friday, October 10, 2008

'... So we got drunk and played our best set ever to nobody'


That's Tony Derrick's take on one of Giljunko's most infamous shows. But I wasn't talking to him solely about that group; we were actually discussing (for the most part) his new group, the Tisdales, which he founded with former Glenrustles/Ol' Yeller frontman Rich Mattson. The two are rounded out in their "post old-school" outfit by Jason “Kokes” Kokal (one of Derrick’s Hotel Coral Essex bandmates) and Derek Rolando (the Six 9’s, occassional Marc Gartman session man). Read all about 'em in "Ladies and Gentlemen ... the Tisdales!"

Elsewhere in the bin...

"Baby, White Light Riot's Makin' It" :: No matter what your definition of “making it” is, sharing a bill with rock legends is surely part of the equation. And that’s just what White Light Riot did last month when they played a Beatles tribute show with Badfinger.

"CD Reviews: Kritical Kontact, Jake One and Cecil Otter"
:: It's a hip-hop record review BLOWOUT: Kritical Kontact's ready-for-the-primetime "Evolution of Revolution"; Jake One's Rhymesayers debut, "White Van Music"; and one of the latest Doomtree records, Cecil Otter's "Rebel Yellow."

Finally, "Haunted Duluth '08: Run for the Hills!" features this week's cover shot, "Romero Scream/Back of a Taxi" -- one of my favorite shots in some time.

Thus concludes THIS WEEK'S SHAMELESS BUDGETEER PLUG!

sys25 :: THE WORLD WOULD BE BETTER OFF IN SAND


Overheard in Epitaph's weekly newsletter: "I'm sitting at my desk listening to my boss, Brett, put together his sequence for the new Vanna record. I didn't realize the importance of a really good sequence, especially on 'harder' records. You tend to put the best songs in the beginning because you want to capture the audience instantly. And then you want to make sure it 'flows' well. That all of the transitions are perfect and seamless. It's one of those things that most people overlook, and take for granted."

1. White Light Riot - "Choice Theory"
What I said then: "'Choice Theory' is as rambunctious and fun as anything the Plastic Constellations have put out there." What I'm saying now: Word. (In other news, I recently got to interview lead guitarist Joe Christenson for Duluth's Budgeteer News. Check out "Baby, White Light Riot's Makin' It" if you get a chance.)

2. Number One Common - "The Acid Reflux"
These guys are tons of fun live. Quite enjoyed this one when they played with Malec and Screaming Mechanical Brain at Norm's two weeks back, and something tells me I'll be hearing this one again tomorrow night/later today when they share a bill with Kritical Kontact and Tiger Blue Death Squad. (Speaking of Kritical Kontact/pimping myself out, this week's Budge also features one of the first reviews of the local hip-hop act's latest, "Evolution of Revolution." Check it out.)

3. David Bowie - "Blue Jean"
I'll admit, it took some time for the Chameleon of Pop's '80s output to grow on me; but, once it did, there was no turning back.

4. Angela Desveaux - "Sure Enough" [MP3]
She might've grown up in Cape Breton, but this doesn't sound anything like McInnis' Kitchen, Double Fiddles (my cousin Nori's side project with some of the MK folks), etc.

5. The Silversun Pickups - "Lazy Eye"
Recommended if you like "Pisces Iscariot," but if, and only if, it's your favorite Smashing Pumpkins release. And the Frogs -- you probably gotta like those Milwaukee boys as well. Just kidding; this is practically the antithesis of lo-fi. My oh my it's getting late....

6. The Boy Least Likely To - "Be Gentle with Me"
Thanks, Tina Fey, for introducing me to this gorgeous track in "Baby Mama."

7. Beastie Boys - "Hey Ladies"
Here too -- it had been a really long time since I'd listened to this "Paul's Boutique" centerpiece.

8. A-Trak - "Knucklehead" [MP3]
Kind of a spiritual successor to "Hey Ladies," but far less over-exposed.

9. Jake One feat. Freeway and Brother Ali - "The Truth" [MP3]
Despite what I said in my review of "White Van Music," Jake One is still a terrific producer and, if you can just get past Freeway's contributions here, "The Truth" is a worthy addition to your mix tapes as well.

10. Kanye West - "Impossible"
A random contribution to one of Tom Cruise's "Mission: Impossible" films that's genuinely worth seeking out.

11. [REDACTED] - "
[REDACTED]"
Seriously, now ... if every music geek were granted a "free pass" for guilty pleasures, I'd happily use mine on [REDACTED], the group formerly known as [REDACTED]. For fans of [REDACTED] -- you know, the Duluth group that the [REDACTED]'s [REDACTED] can't [EXPLETIVE DELETED]-ing shut up about.

12. Spiritualized - "I Gotta Fire"
Another hearty round of applause for Walt Dizzo, KUWS's resident superstar DJ, for introducing me to this amazing group. I mean, I've heard about Spiritualized for years, but I had always *assumed* it was something lame, like Faithless.

13. Wilco feat. Fleet Foxes - "I Shall Be Released" [Bob Dylan cover] [LIVE]
This gorgeous track is free for the taking from Wilco's Web site if you pledge to vote in the upcoming election: "Such tumultuous times. And in the spirit of giveaways that seem to be sweeping the nation, we've got something free for you. No, it's not a pile of cash (sorry), but rather an audio postcard of sorts from a summer's night in Oregon with our friends the Fleet Foxes and a lovely Bob Dylan tune."

14. Cracker - "Duty Free"
No matter how hard I "crush" on these guys, I never get sick of them, and, better yet, I keep on discovering tracks that are "positively the best Cracker song yet." So far there's about four dozen of those suckers floating around in my mind....

15. Bob Dylan - "Mississippi" [Original "Time Out of Mind" vers.] [MP3]
Oh, the mastery!

16. Urge Overkill - "Take a Walk"
Similar to the Cracker situation, I could easily cram a few thousand tracks into my "Top 100 Songs of All Time" list. That said, this is one of 'em. A classic in every sense.

17. Better than Ezra - "Desperately Wanting"
I recently rediscovered this group, which I assumed -- there I go again with that nasty word... -- had fallen off the face of the earth after "Good." So, so wrong.

18. Michael Franti and Spearhead - "Yell Fire!" [MP3]
I was really disheartened yesterday when I found out my "friend" dismissed Spearhead as a reggae group. Seriously, why would anyone want to hate on Spearhead? I kid; everyone's free to dig whatever they want.

19. TV on the Radio - "DLZ"
I wasn't terribly impressed with the new disc, but this track is the TVOTR I've known for so many years. Perhaps a few more spins and the rest'll "click" for me.

Thus concludes your twenty-fifth dose of SHAKE*YOUR*SHORES, the awesome mix tape series formerly known as Don't Tell a Soul.

Wednesday, October 8, 2008

A&E FYI: Foo Fighters denounce unauthorized use of their music by McCain campaign

Having received confirmed press reports that John McCain has been using Foo Fighters’ “My Hero” as the latest in a number of unauthorized theme songs at his campaign rallies without seeking permission from the band, its management, record label or publisher, Dave Grohl and the Foo Fighters have issued the following statement: “This isn’t the first time the McCain campaign has used a song without making any attempt to get approval or permission from the artist. It’s frustrating and infuriating that someone who claims to speak for the American people would repeatedly show such little respect for creativity and intellectual property. The saddest thing about this is that ‘My Hero’ was written as a celebration of the common man and his extraordinary potential. To have it appropriated without our knowledge and used in a manner that perverts the original sentiment of the lyric just tarnishes the song. We hope that the McCain campaign will do the right thing and stop using our song -- and start asking artists’ permission in general!”


~Information courtesy Nasty Little Man PR

Monday, October 6, 2008

'I buy my DVDs used on Amazon, but I never watch them'


That's what Henry Rollins said. To Me. About his myriad film projects. I still can't believe it either. Either/or, make sure to check out what else he had to said during his exclusive Budgeteer interview in "Henry Rollins Continues the 'Recountdown' in Duluth." (Hint: He's bringing his new spoken word tour to Sacred Heart Music Center.)

Elsewhere in the bin...

"Local CD Review BLOWOUT: Yeltzi, Two Many Banjos, the marcgartband and the Hobo Nephews" :: Reviewed this weekend: Yeltzi's "Snow in August," Two Many Banjos' "Give Me Time," the marcgartband's "Me and My Big Ego" and the Hobo Nephews of Uncle Frank's "One for the Time Capsule" EP. All good ... what do you know?!

"One Jerk's Opinion: The 2008 Beaner's Songwriter Competition" :: Judge Matthew R. Perrine's – Hey, that's me! – thoughts on the two-song sets from Dustin Ralston, Billy Southern, Sam Dull, Kim Monson, Jason Robuk, George Kaplan, The Tico Three, Drew Anderson, Stephanie Dykema, Mark Blom, Emily Jayne, John Derke, Adam Depre, Greg Tiburzi and Steve Isakson at the fifth annual Beaner's Central songwriting competition (held last Wednesday during One Week Live). DuluthBudgeteer.com exclusive!

"Duluth Gets a Taste of the BFF-Approved Terrordactyls" :: While easy comparisons could be made to labelmates the Pharmacy and occasional tourmates Best Friends Forever – or, to a lesser extent, Madison’s the Buffali – the simplest way to describe the songs cooked up by this Seattle duo is that they're experimental, quirky and fun. DuluthBudgeteer.com exclusive!

"Discover Duluth: Chambers Grove" :: The magnificent views of the river and the rolling hills that surround Fond du Lac's Chambers Grove are at least worthy of a pit stop on your way to nearby Jay Cooke State Park. DuluthBudgeteer.com exclusive!

Finally, this weekend's cover, "Special One," can be viewed here. Yay for fall colors!

Thus concludes THIS WEEK'S (SHAMELESS) BUDGETEER PLUG!