MNDR - "I Go Away"

MNDR is yet another electropop duo from New York. Amanda Warner and Peter Wade are the usual story of singer meets producer guy and then they start a band. The difference to some of the others is the fact that the singer here can sing and write great songs. Their four track EP called 'E.P,E.' could be described as "Santigold goes retro" or maybe just as "MNDR doing what they do and sounding fucking cool." That will do... I've got nothing else.

Bon Iver - "Calgary"

I didn't believe the hype about Bon Iver at the time of the release of their debut album " For Emma, Forever Ago" in 2007. I heard all the stories about the leading member Justin Vernon holing up in a cabin over winter, where he wrote most of the songs. I also heard the stories of his relationship and former band breakup. I also heard about his bout with mononucleosis... all of this before any music, I must add. And then I heard "Skinny Love" and everything changed... I was wrong. The stories suddenly became interesting. The self titled second album is out now and it is certainly more expansive than the debut but still has the unmistakable Bon Iver falsetto and harmonies. The first single "Calgary" reflects all of that.

Yuck - "The Wall"

'Yuck' are a London four-piece band who released their self titled debut album earlier this year. The album is a combination of a lot of cool indie bands like Dinosaur Jr, Sonic Youth and the shoegaze bands such as My Bloody Valentine.... even Flying Nun bands like The 3Ds come to mind. However, Yuck are no pretenders or a rehash of 90's indie/noise-rock, they are diverse enough, and talented enough, not to fall into that trap.... they just evoke a memory or two of a bygone era, a recent one, I should add. "The Wall" was the fifth of six singles released from the album... that's impressive alone.

Nada Surf - "Popular"

New York alt-rock band 'Nada Surf' arrived onto the music scene with their impressive debut album 'High/Low' in 1996. The album included the brilliant anti-emo themed "Popular" where they ironically celebrate the popular kids over the outsiders. The video to promote "Popular" was one of the best videos of the 90's. After "Popular" it seemed like world domination was to follow... but no it wasn't to be... and not even now, five more studio albums later.



Lyrics to "Popular"
Three important rules for breaking up
Don't put off breaking up when you know you want to
Prolonging the situation only makes it worse
Tell him honestly, simply, kindly, but firmly
Don't make a big production
Don't make up an elaborate story
This will help you avoid a big tear jerking scene
If you wanna date other people say so
Be prepared for the boy to feel hurt and rejected
Even if you've gone together for only a short time,
And haven't been too serious,
There's still a feeling of rejection
When someone says she prefers the company of others
To your exclusive company,
But if you're honest, and direct,
And avoid making a flowery emotional speech when you brake the news,
The boy will respect you for your frankness,
And honestly he'll appreciate the kind of straight forward manner
In which you told him your decision
Unless he's a real jerk or a cry baby you will remain friends

I'm head of the class
I'm popular
I'm a quarter back
I'm popular
My mom says I'm a catch
I'm popular
I'm never last picked
I got a cheerleader chick

Being attractive is the most important thing there is
If you wanna catch the biggest fish in your pond
You have to be as attractive as possible
Make sure to keep your hair spotless and clean
Wash it at least every two weeks
Once every two weeks
And if you see Johnny football hero in the hall
Tell him he played a great game
Tell him you like his article in the newspaper

I'm the party star
I'm popular
I've got my own car
I'm popular
I'll never get caught
I'm popular
I make football bets
I'm a teachers pet.

I purpose we support a one month limit on going steady
I think It will keep people more able to deal with weird situation
And get to know more people
I think if you're ready to go out with Johnny
Now's the time to tell him about your one month limit
He wont mind he'll appreciate your fresh look on dating
And once you've dated someone else you can date him again
I'm sure he'll like it
Everyone will appreciate it
You so novel what a good idea
You can keep your time to your self
You don't need date insurance
You can go out with whoever you want to
Every boy, every boy, in the whole world could be yours
If you'll just listen to my plan
THE TEENAGE GUIDE TO POPULARITY

Klee - "fuer alle die"

'Klee' is a Cologne band featuring Sten Servaes and Suzie Kerstgens. The band name is said to be named after the Swiss/German painter Paul Klee. I discovered them on Myspace a few years back and I fell in love with the single "Für alle, die" (For all who) and it has since become another Bitter FM favourite. They released an English version "This is For Everyone" for the American market... but I always prefer a song as it was originally intended, regardless of the language barrier.

The Smiths - "Heaven Knows I'm Miserable Now"/Sandie Shaw - "Heaven Knows I'm Missing Him Now"

I should apologize for having another 'Smiths' song on here, but once again, I won't. To a Smiths fan, they were OUR band, we understood everything about them and we thought they were our very own treasure... like a little club that you could be a member of, based only on your degree of obsessiveness. Obsessed no, totally obsessed, close. "Heaven Knows I'm Miserable Now" was like the quintessential Smiths song... shit, there was even "miserable" in the title... do I really need to go on. What a lot of people may not realize is that "Heaven Knows I'm Miserable Now" was actually inspired by Sandie Shaw's "Heaven Knows I'm Missing Him Now." Morrissey and Johnny Marr were both fans of Sandie Shaw and they ended up persuading (actually, probably not much persuading) her to record "Hand in Glove." At Bitter FM we also play "I don't Owe You Anything," which was a live collaboration with The Smiths. Let's start a Taupo Smiths appreciation club... anyone got a suitable bedsit?



Sandie shaw - "Heaven Knows I'm Missing Him Now"


Sandie Shaw and The Smiths - "I don't Owe You Anything"

Letters To Cleo - "Here & Now"

Boston band 'Letters To Cleo' will probably only be remembered for one song, back here in New Zealand, and that song is "Here & Now" of course. "Here & Now" was the second single from their debut album 'Aurora Gory Alice' released in 1994. Looking back now, "Here & Now" had all the hallmarks of the early nineties... from the accessible alt-rock sound of the times, which was generally an alt-rock/mainstream-rock crossover sound, and the lead singer Kay Hanley had the look that matched. It was a great single with a fast-paced vocal delivery. Surprisingly it wasn't a smash hit... but I'm sure the people who did take to it, will remember it fondly, even today.... or in other words, here and now.

The Velvet Underground - "Femme Fatale"

"Femme Fatale" is from the 1967 album 'The Velvet Underground & Nico.' The album is one of the greatest and most influential of all time. Even the Andy Warhol banana cover is legendary. The early LP release had a peel off banana on the cover, with a peeled banana underneath.... I don't know how many of them made it to New Zealand, but I sure would love to, at least, see one... the chances of buying one may be limited. Anyway, back to "Femme Fatale," which was sung by Nico and was written by Lou Reed about Edie Sedgwick after Andy Warhol had asked him to write a song about her. Apparently Andy had stated something like "Don't you think she is a femme fatale" to Lou Reed during the conversation that took place after the request was made.... and the rest is history. Edie Sedgwick was the ultimate 'it-girl' and she makes all the others that followed, look like pretenders.

Shihad - "Home Again"

I've been away for a few days and didn't have any internet access ... so I've got a bit of catching up to do. How about Shihad's greatest song "Home Again" to get things started. "Home Again" is from the Wellington band's self titled third album released in 1996. The perfect anthem for expatriate Kiwi's returning home... although, there is a more popular and overused song for that purpose ("Welcome Home") by Dave Dobbyn, but that one is so bland in comparison and doesn't pack the punch of "Home Again."

Skywatchers - "Dead Flowers For Her"

I am a big fan of Sheffield band 'I Monster' so it was only a matter of time before I discovered 'Skywatchers'... which features the members of 'I Monster' and Kevin Pearce. I share a lot of interests with these guys as well.... such as astronomy, vintage instruments, Hammer horrors, old movies, but most importantly, great music. The video wraps all of that up like a cone of chips from a good old fashioned English chippie... soggy with vinegar. Just like Morrissey, these guys have a special place in their hearts for the dear old Blighty of the past... and they express it well.

The Presets - "My People"

The first time I heard Australian electro-pop band 'The Presets' was on a Modular Recordings label compilation. Their song "My People" stood out initially, although, I must say the label would have to be the coolest Aussie label at present. It is no surprise to find out they won plenty of ARIA (Australian Recording Industry...) awards for the album ' Apocalypso' and it also debuted at number one over there. The song was written about the asylum seekers or boat people who seek refuge in Australia but are usually intercepted and end up at the Australian detention centres. We, in New Zealand, are quite familiar with the plight of the asylum seekers through the news broadcasts. It is certainly not the typical protest song... but protest song it is.
The video for "My People" is a visual masterpiece.

Look Blue Go Purple - "Cactus Cat"

Yet another Flying Nun band from Dunedin on this blog... and I won't apologise about that at all. 'Look Blue Go Purple' were together between 1983 and 1987. They released three EPs and all three were compiled on the album 'Compilation' in 1991. A lot of those tracks may now be distant memories but two of them were up there with the very best the 'Dunedin Sound' had to offer... and that is saying something. The two songs are "I Don't Want You Anyway" and "Cactus Cat." They bring out all their 60's influences on "Cactus Cat" and at the same time, epitomize the 'Flying Nun' label.

Eleanor Friedberger - "My Mistakes"

Eleanor Friedberger is one half of 'The Fiery Furnaces' along with her brother Matthew Friedberger. New York based duo 'The Fiery Furnaces' have released about eight albums since first being signed with Rough Trade in 2002. While Matthew has released solo albums up until now, Eleanor has only just released her debut solo album 'Last Summer' and the title comes from the fact that it was recorded the previous summer to the summer it was released. The title is strengthened by nostalgia being a recurring theme throughout the album. The video for the first single "My Mistakes" even uses old footage of her from a 90's film project she was part of. Brilliant on both levels... and yes, she has learnt from her mistakes.

The Chills - "Bee Bah Bee Bah Bee Boe"

Dunedin band The Chills thought they had lost the recordings that made up this EP. So once found, 'The Lost EP' was finally released. It was 1985 and they had already made a name for themselves with one side of the 'Dunedin Double EP', which they shared with three other Dunedin bands, and a couple of singles "Rolling Moon" and "Pink Frost". The six tracks from 'The Lost EP' were later released on the album 'Kaleidoscope World'. The leading song from the EP was "This is the Way" but the other highlight is the centre piece "Bee Bah Bee Bah Bee Boe" which could be thought of as a throwaway, going by the title.... but it's a 'found again' gem.

Soulico Feat. Rye Rye - "Exotic On The Speaker"

What do you get when the top four DJ's in Israel combine all their talents? No, not dance kosher... but, 'Soulico'. The DJs Sabbo, Rob, Shimmy Sonic and Wido got together for a one-off party in the early 00's and a few years later they did it again on a much more regular basis. They quickly became huge in Tel Aviv and all of Israel, and after the release of their debut album, the rest of the world got a taste of their unique mixing abilities. They combine old folk with hip-hop at ease and the album's title track is a fantastic example of the old meeting the new. The vocalist is Baltimore rapper Rye Rye, who has worked and toured with M.I.A. The album features an impressive list of international and Israeli artists.

Gasoline Cowboy - "Outta My Hands"

Gasoline Cowboy seem to have been New Zealand's best kept secret. They are based in Auckland but are originally from Christchurch... although, they are now either on a hiatus or have broken up. They play a perfect style of indie pop with a broader appeal. "Outta My Hands" is a radio friendly gem that reminds me of a lot of British indie bands... but not one in particular.

The Clash - "White Riot"

"White Riot" was the first single from 'The Clash' in 1977 and was also on their debut album. "White Riot" came about after Joe Strummer was involved in the Notting Hill Carnival riots in 1976. Fast forward to August 2011 and this song, along with another Clash song "London's Burning", comes to mind when watching the news of the riots in London and elsewhere in England.

Debbie Shea -

Oh shit!, another late night. But the best thing about that is.... another Debbie Shea video.

Jokes.com
Debbie Shea - Apartment Robbery
comedians.comedycentral.com
Jokes Joke of the Day Funny Jokes

Debbie Shea - Egg Hunt

Too many late nights etc... so here is a comedy interlude (normal transmission resumes tomorrow)

Jokes.com
Debbie Shea - Egg Hunt
comedians.comedycentral.com
Jokes Joke of the Day Funny Jokes

The Adults - "Nothing To Lose"

'The Adults' are, sort of, a Kiwi supergroup. The founder is Jon Toogood from 'Shihad' and a bunch of collaborators including Shayne Carter, Julia Deans, Anika Moa and many many more. The guest vocalist on "Nothing To Lose" is Ladi6 and she is still on a creative high, after winning the Taite Music Prize for her album 'The Liberation Of' earlier this year. The rhythm section on "Nothing To Lose" is just fantastic. A timely change of direction for Jon Toogood, after 22 years with Shihad. This is probably just a one-off project before he goes back to record another album with Shihad. The main thing is that he seems to have reinvigorated himself musically... and managed to get the best out of the collaborators as well. Brilliant!

Gaby Moreno - "Y Tu Sombra"

Gaby Moreno is a bilingual singer-songwriter from Guatemala, but now resides in Los Angeles. "Y Tu Sombra" is from her recently released album 'Illustrated Songs'. It has a vintage sound that also brings Bossa Nova to mind. This song may be in Spanish, but that only adds to it's unique beauty. In a time of auto-tune and manufactured hits (which isn't new), it is great to hear a young artist creating beautiful songs in an older style, but still managing to sound contemporary. And finally, she has a voice that could melt *semi-soft butter.
We can finally say Guatemala, without mentioning Dr Ropata.





*semi-soft butter is the hardest fucking butter you can buy... and the manufacturers call it spreadable.

The Sex Pistols - "My Way"

I love this version of "My Way" for so many reasons. We know he couldn't sing but that doesn't matter in the slightest.... we also know that Sid Vicious is just taking the piss. In fact, the whole existence of 'The Sex Pistols' was a bit of a piss take. Sid Vicious was definitely not known for his musical talent... but there was no doubt about the fact that he was the quintessential punk rocker. I am so impressed that there have been more than 6 million views of this video on Youtube. Watch out for the Sid Vicious Christmas compilation.

Jeff Buckley - "Forget Her"

Jeff Buckley had only released one album before his untimely death. The album was 'Grace' and it was a masterpiece. As good as the posthumous releases were, he wasn't satisfied with them and was about start over again and record his follow up album. Which does prove that he was a perfectionist because there was some great material from those scrapped sessions. The second album proper, could have been something quite brilliant... such a shame. Although, I was lucky enough to see him live at the St James Theatre in Auckland. "Forget Her" was recorded during the 'Grace' sessions and was omitted from the album in the eleventh hour. It was replaced by "So Real"... which turned out to be one of the highlights for me. "Forget Her" was finally available on the 'Grace : Legacy Edition'.

Latin Bitman - "Help Me" (feat. Francisca Valenzuela)

Latin Bitman is a Chilean DJ/Producer and "Help Me" is from his 2009 album 'Colour'. What I love so much about "Help Me" is the blending together of his obvious Latin influences with some hip hop, funk and dub styles, along with some pop vocals. The guest vocalist is Francisca Valenzuela and she sounds more like Jem, than fellow album guest, Ana Tijoux (another Chilean and Bitter FM favourite)...with more of a pop style than hip-hop. "Help Me" is a seriously good upbeat song... despite the title.

Shirley Temple - "Get On Board"

Yes, we do play Shirley Temple on Bitter FM. It may have taken an advertisement on TV to give "Get On Board" a new lease on life, but it does have more than just the novelty factor I originally credited it as.... although, not too much. "Get On Board" is from the soundtrack to the 1936 movie 'Dimples'. The movie is essentially about a stage production of 'Uncle Tom's Cabin' set in 1853, where Shirley Temple's character plays 'Eva'. It could be considered controversial now, with the blackface actors (white actors in black faces and white lips, minstrel style) singing with Shirley Temple. However, it is historically accurate because that was what they did in the mid 19th century... and slavery was prevalent then. The clip for "Get On Board" has given me enough curiosity to search out the movie. Get on board, little children.