Those Dancing Days - "Fuckarias"

Why haven't this Swedish band 'Those Dancing Days' become a worldwide phenomenon yet? A good question to ponder over the holidays. I see a new year's resolution here - I might ask everyone I meet from then on, if they know of 'Those Dancing Days' and if they say no, I will ask them why. Do I really want to know what they do for a living? Of course not, this is much better information. I realise it will kill almost all conversations.... but if there is a yes, that conversation is just starting.

Gangstagrass - "Red Sky Morning" featuring Nitty Scott MC

I can't get enough of the 'Rappalachia' album by hip-hop hillbillies Gangstagrass. I've already featured them on here so I won't go over old ground. However, if you don't know anything about them, don't worry, because their name kind of explains everything... Gangsta Rap meets Bluegrass. On "Red Sky Morning" it is Nitty Scott, MC on the mic. Yeah, Yeah, Yeehaw!

Natasha Leggero - "Toilet Babies"

Natasha Leggero's 'Coke Money' album is one of the few comedy albums that I go back to time and time again.

Metric - "Breathing Underwater"

I've been a bit busy lately and my blog has been neglected. But I have one real good excuse... and I mean real good excuse. Metric live at The Power Station in Auckland on Saturday night. They turned all their mini anthems into fucking massive anthems.

Harry Nilsson - Everybody's Talkin'/Paul Oakenfold - "Starry Eyed Surprise"

Here on Bitter FM we now have a folk show hosted by Jersey Bob. Tonight's folk hour featured a song that I, and everybody else, have heard many times. The song was "Everybody's Talkin'" by Harry Nilsson. I am ashamed to say that when I heard the intro, I thought we were about to hear "Starry Eyed Surprise" by Paul Oakenfold - you know the song, the Coke ad and all. Anyway, my disrespect of a legendary singer-songwriter needed some kind of explanation. The first witness was wikipedia and all was revealed. On "Starry Eyed Surprise" Paul Oakenfold had sampled "Everybody's Talkin'" so I am hopefully forgiven... although, I hope I recognise it as the original next time.
Case closed.



Paul Oakenfold - "Starry Eyed Surprise" (you see what I mean)

Nikki Lane - "Gone, Gone, Gone"

"Gone, Gone, Gone" is the title track to Nikki Lane's 2011 EP. She went from a fashion designer to a retro country singer after a relationship breakup caused her to pick up the guitar to reflect. What emerged was some good old 60's country with a modern feel. The twang of Loretta Lynn is there but she is no tribute artist. This is revivalist country at its best, but with a dark twist.

Iggy Pop & The Stooges - "Gimme Danger"

The 'Raw Power' album by The Stooges from 1973, regardless of the mix, was to find more favour years after its release. It is said to have been inspirational to many artists, including Kurt Cobain and Johnny Marr. However, there has always been some disagreement over the mix. Raw Power was originally mixed by David Bowie, over a 24 hour period and with old technology. His mix certainly had its fair share of critics. Iggy Pop mixed it himself more recently and that had a mixed (pun not intended but I can't be bothered changing it) reaction as well. Some artists and critics still prefer the old Bowie mix and others relishing the rougher and loader guitar of Iggy Pop's mix. But frankly my dear, I don't give a damn - "Gimme Danger" any mix, any time.

The Specials - "Nelson Mandela"

We all know about the sacrifices Nelson Mandela made for a long period of his life and it was great to know that there was a protest movement against his imprisonment from early on. This movement gained a lot of momentum in 1984 after the release of The Specials' (The Special A.K.A.) "Nelson Mandela" protest song in 1984. Well, he was finally released and then he rewrote history. Legend.

Lucy Michelle and the Velvet Lapelles - "Not Keeping Company"

Lucy Michelle and the Velvet Lapelles are a Minneapolis band with an interesting range of instruments. Ukelele, cello, accordion, as well as the conventional guitar, bass and drums - and here on "Not Keeping Company" we are even treated to some good old xylophone and whistling. On top of that we get something quite special in way of Lucy's voice and phrasing. I will now add the class of the lyrics, which means I've basically covered everything that is good about music. My love of Lucy Michelle and the Velvet Lapelles started after I heard "Not Keeping Company" from their third album 'Good of That' and kept getting rewarded thereafter. They are now known as 'Field Trip' - Lucy Michelle also released a solo album recently. Enjoy!

The Cardigans - "Iron Man"

Swedish band The Cardigans covered Black Sabbath's "Iron Man" on their 'First Band on the Moon' album from 1996. The big hit was "Lovefool" and that song deserved all its accolades. But "Iron Man" was the real surprise of the album. Possibly loved and loathed in equal measure... but when you really think about it, it isn't a radical change from the original - you could say it has gone through a de-metal process, in the same way coffee can be decaffeinated.



Black Sabbath - "Iron Man" (Original)

Inspiral Carpets - "Caravan"

Inspiral Carpets were part of the Manchester dominance that started in the 80's. We had already obsessed over Joy Division, The Fall, The Smiths and New Order - then came the Madchester scene featuring Happy Mondays, The Stone Roses, The Charlatans and Inspiral Carpets, to name a few. The Madchester scene was, or defined, the period of the late 80's/early 90's when indie rock was moving towards dance music. The Manchester nightclub 'The Hacienda' was also a big part of that scene. "Caravan" was a single from the Inspiral Carpets' second album 'The Beast Inside.' You can hear some traces of 60's psychedelic in their sound... but LSD was out and E was the drug of choice at this time.

STEVEN WRIGHT - Comedy

Steven Wright has to be the king of the one-liners.

Eddy Current Suppression Ring - "Cool Ice Cream"

Eddy Current Suppression Ring are a bunch of Aussies who like to take things back a few decades. "Cool Ice Cream" is like a lost classic from the Stooges. It comes from their 2006 self titled debut album. I love "Cool Ice Cream" so much I've decided to make it Bitter FM's song of the summer.... and it doesn't matter that it's seven years old. Better than a double cone hokey pokey with a flake sticking out.

Curve - "Horror Head"

Indie rock/shoegaze band 'Curve' are a distant memory now - but in the 90's they had their moments on the soundtrack of our lives. The shoegaze layered guitars were sometimes not too far from 'My Bloody Valentine' but Toni Halliday's dreamy vocals, also layered, defined their sound. Over time they evolved into an indie dance band. "Horror Head" from 1992 is a prime example of the MBV sound - but you can hear the dance/electronic foundations getting built underneath.

Moron Says What?! - "Wikipedia"

"Wikipedia" by Moron Says What?! has been getting plenty of airplay on Bitter FM since it came out on the 'Awesome Feeling 2' compilation a few years ago. You will never hear a better tribute to Wikipedia... quirky and catchy. But don't expect to find anything about Moron Says What?! on Wikipedia [citation needed].

SideKick Nick - "Something In Your Eyes"

SideKick Nick is an Auckland musician (aka Nick Buckton), who released his debut album 'Miscellaneous Adventures' under the SideKick Nick name in 2008. The songs were recorded over a 10 year period and that is where the album title comes from. "Something In Your Eyes" is a bit MGMT but mostly a great pop song. The interesting thing about the 'Miscellaneous Adventures' album is that it was released by Sony NZ. It's amazing that they could see the potential and the record buying public couldn't. It's not too late though.

Dom La Nena - "Buenos Aires"

Dom La Nena is a Brazilian born singer-songwriter and cellist. She moved to Buenos Aires, where she was trained by cellist Christine Walevska for many years. She relocated to Paris at the age of 18. After touring as a cellist in Jane Birkin's band for a couple of years, she eventually recorded her stunning debut album 'Ela' with Piers Faccini and released it on the Six Degrees label. Her hushed voice will win you over in a matter of seconds. You need to own this album.

Nico vs Trance Groove - "Reich der Träume"

Here is a not so well known Nico song "Reich der Träume" which has been given the Trance Groove treatment.... and is still not so well known. I can't really talk though - I downloaded it years ago and then forgot all about it.

Split Enz - Master Plan

In 1979 Neil Finn had a master plan.... and I think it worked.

Arcade Fire - "Reflektor"

Arcade Fire were on top of the world after the release of 'The Suburbs' and we all would've been happy with some more of the same. But that would be too easy, instead they decided to get more ambitious and have delivered a double album 'Reflektor' and it may be more challenging - not just because of the scale of the project. But I won't make any judgements until I've given it the time it deserves.... and if the title track is a good reflektion of what to expect, then it will be time well spent.

Those Darlins - 'Be Your Bro'

Those Darlins are a Nashville garage-rock band who formed in 2006. With 3 albums to date, it was their second 'Screws Get Loose' that was much more garage-rock than the other two. But regardless of genre or style, they are a likable and fun band. A single "Be Your Bro" from 'Screws Get Loose' is a great example of their wit. When Jessi Darlin sings "I just wanna I just wanna be your brother - You just wanna be my boyfriend. I just wanna run and play in the dirt with you - You just wanna stick it in" you know how the story goes.... but it's a great way to be reminded about our differences.

Courtney Barnett - "Avant Gardener"

Okay, we have Lorde, but you have to admire our mates from the West Island - or Australia if you have no idea what I'm talking about. Those Aussie cousins of ours are ruling the underground at the moment. One artist that is really becoming an obsession of mine is Courtney Barnett. She sings in an Aussie drawl, with a Bob Dylan influence that is like another band, Foxygen, who are Dylan/Stones prodigies. Pure coincidence maybe, but my last two musical obsessions seem to be Dylanesque. Courtney Barnett's double EP 'A Sea of Split Peas', which actually combines her first two EP's, is so good that I've been breaking my "Don't thrash the hell out of any album" rule. Pure Heroine!

Tom Robinson Band - "2 4 6 8 Motorway"

"2 4 6 8 Motorway" from 1977 was the biggest hit by the Tom Robinson Band and it is a bit of an anthem. It's the type of song that the rock format stations and the alternative stations can both play with the same enthusiasm. What sounds like a protest song is definitely not a protest song.

Lou Reed - "Sword Of Damocles"

I went away for the long weekend and it was probably the longest time without internet access I have endured for quite a while. Although it wasn't really a problem at all. As soon as I arrive home and connect to the net I find out about the passing of Lou Reed. I know he had a liver transplant recently but it still came as a great shock. Lou Reed was a true legend! I would say he was as influential as Dylan - I mean, look at the influence of The Velvet Underground. They didn't just inspire thousands of bands, from the 60's to the present time, they even inspired whole movements... if it wasn't for The Velvet Underground, the Flying Nun 'Dunedin Sound' would not have existed. Lou Reed's brilliant 1992 album 'Magic and Loss' was an album of death and mourning, which was inspired by the death of a couple of his friends. So his album of mourning is now our album of mourning.

Demetri Martin - New Cigarettes

If I run out of time to post a song on this blog - the go-to man is Demetri Martin... works every time.

Malcolm Mclaren - "Double Dutch"

Malcolm Mclaren was the man who gave us the Sex Pistols and we thank him for changing the world. He was always on the lookout for new and exciting developments in music and popular culture. In 1983 he found something. With "Double Dutch" he introduced us to the skipping game that was popularised in New York at the time. The interesting thing about the song is that the roots of the Double Dutch rope jumping game are, without doubt, New York but the music sounds nothing other than South African.

Delaney Davidson & Marlon Williams - "Get Down On Your Knees and Pray"

I've been a bit busy lately and I admit I haven't been true to my word - a daily song blog should be exactly that. I don't really have any excuses, well, except a bit of painting, a few beers in the spring sunshine and a concert in Rotorua 'The Grand Ole Hayride' featuring Delaney Davidson, Marlon Williams, Tami Neilson and Dave Khan.

Monica Zetterlund with Bill Evans Trio - "Waltz for Debby"

A while back I was told about an album by Swedish Jazz singer/actress Monica Zetterlund and legendary jazz pianist Bill Evans and I've only recently got around to downloading it. The album 'Waltz for Debby' was released in 1964 and should not be confused with his Trio's 1961 album of the same name. The story goes that Monica Zetterlund recorded a Swedish version of Bill Evans' "Waltz for Debby" and it was quite successful back in Sweden. The fact that she added vocals to his song interested him enough to make contact with her and before long they were recording an album together. The rest, I suppose, is history. The video added below has as much improvisation as jazz music itself does.... and it was at a time when smoking was as common as texting is today. This is just a taste - the album is the full buffet.

Sleigh Bells - "Bitter Rivals"

Sleigh Bells are back with a new album, which means the world is now a slightly better place. Don't be fooled by the intro to the title track "Bitter Rivals," the noise-pop sound of Sleigh Bells that we love, thankfully, is still there.
Bitter ....

ROUGE ROUGE - "L'AMOUR"

"L'amour" by Rouge Rouge has been part of Bitter FM from day one. As addictive as good coffee and....

The Beards - "Got Me a Beard"

The Beards are a band of, um, bearded guys and here is a song "Got Me a Beard" from the 2012 album 'Having a Beard is the New Not Having a Beard' and there is no prize for guessing what all their songs are about.

Valerie June - "Workin' Woman Blues"

"Workin' Woman Blues" is from the fourth album by Memphis artist Valerie June. The album 'Pushin' Against a Stone' was recorded with Dan Auerbach and Kevin Augunas after she had relocated to New York. It is a blend of traditional, roots, blues, soul, bluegrass, gospel and singer-songwriter folk. I know that sounds too eclectic for a solid album, but because she succeeds in bringing a lot of those styles together in her songs, it doesn't really jump from one genre to another. Although, the bluegrass/appalachian tracks don't stray too much from tradition. "Workin' Woman Blues" is like a rootsy Billie Holliday and the horns are perfectly integrated.

Bob Marley and the Wailers - "Stir It Up" live Old Grey Whistle Test 1973

Bob Marley and the Wailers appeared on British television for the very first time in 1973 when they performed "Stir It Up" live on Old Grey Whistle Test, a kind of 'Later with Jools Holland' of the 70's and 80's that, shamefully never made it to NZ. With this performance, it's no surprise that world domination followed.... how fucking cool were they then? Stoned but articulate!

Jonny Fritz - "Trash Day"

Tomorrow is "Trash Day" so thanks for reminding me Jonny Fritz.... this is the best way to be reminded about trash day on Monday.

Madeline Kahn - "I'm Tired" Blazing Saddles

Here is the magnificent Madeline Kahn performing "I'm Tired" from the equally magnificent 'Blazing Saddles' movie.

Push Push - Trippin'

Should we laugh, cringe or just remember it fondly as a moment in musical history? Let's be positive and go with the latter. Push Push hit the top of the charts with this song - but come on now, calm down, it was 1991 and glam was in. Still not convinced? Here are some big hits from 1991 "(Everything I Do) I Do It for You" – Bryan Adams, "Joyride" – Roxette, "Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me" – George Michael & Elton John and "The Shoop Shoop Song (It's in His Kiss)" – Cher. Okay, all that tells us is that there sure was some crap happening that year... so it doesn't make Trippin' right but it makes it better. 1991 was probably not the greatest year at all musically, it was as if I was "Losing My Religion" but there was something in the air that we said "Smells Like Teen Spirit" and that spirit changed everything.

Amiria Grenell - "E Toru Nga Mea"

Here is a short and sweet musical interlude from the wonderful Amiria Grenell and a very special guest.... for this musical family, the future is looking bright.

Attic Lights - "Say You Love Me"

Attic Lights are a Scottish indie rock band. Their sound is often described as Power pop, and while I can't really disagree, on "Say You Love Me" it is 70% power and 30% pop. "Say You Love Me" is from their second album 'Super De Luxe' released earlier this year. If they were previously unknown to you - then today is your lucky day.

The Shangri-Las - "Past, Present And Future"

The Shangri-Las may be remembered for the epic teenage tragedy hit "Leader of the Pack" but they released something in 1966 that was probably regarded as unique. However, as unique as it was, it has an air of simplicity about it. It is no more than a spoken word, or monologue, over Beethoven's 'Moonlight Sonata.' It is the state of mind of the protagonist that gives "Past, Present And Future" its strength. The past was obviously distressing, while the present seems slightly more positive, but with baggage, and the future seems bleak. For Shangri-Las fans, this must've been so unexpected at the time.

Jen Kirkman - My opinion on teenagers.

With this America's Cup gloom starting to take effect after ruining the last five or so mornings. Some cheering up is required.

Transistors - "Your Life Could Be So Easy"

"Your Life Could Be So Easy" is from the Transistors' second album 'Is This Anything?' released recently on the Arch Hill label. They are a power-pop, indie-punk trio - but on "Your Life Could Be So Easy" you can't deny the similarities with the Flying Nun bands like Straitjacket Fits and The Clean. Yes, this is something!

The Smiths - "Some Girls Are Bigger Than Others"

Morrissey's long awaited autobiography is to be published soon and there may be some interesting revelations. But one mystery that won't be solved is this... what the hell was he thinking when he presented the lyrics of "Some Girls Are Bigger Than Others" to Johnny Marr, during such a fruitful period of jangle guitar tunes that Johnny Marr was penning. Although it didn't ruin the album 'The Queen is Dead,' which is my favourite album of all time (tied with Bob Dylan's 'Highway 61 Revisited'), it gave the album a bit of a 'WTF' moment.

Daughter - "Youth"

London indie-pop band Daughter eventually released their debut album 'If You Leave' earlier this year, after a few EPs that attracted the attention and the anticipation for the album. On the single "Youth" Elena Tonra sings about heartbreak, bitterness and despair... but the problem I have is that it sounds so fucking good. I want to feel your pain, I do, but I just hear sweetness.

Frank LoCrasto - "Simple Times"

Frank LoCrasto is a New York based multi-instrumentalist and you could probably say his music is multi-genre. Going by the tags he has placed on his bandcamp page to describe his music.... '50's 60's ambient americana brazilian instrumental lo-fi stride surf tape western,' you kind of get the idea. I could actually add a few to that list as well. His second album 'El Dorado' was released in 2011 and the opening track "Simple Times" sets the tone perfectly. The album was released by a cool little record label called 'Hundred Pockets Records' and they got their name from a Friedrich Nietzsche quote "when one has much to fill them with, a day has a hundred pockets". So discovering Frank LoCrasto and the record label at the same time, that is two pockets nicely filled.

The Naked And Famous - "Hearts Like Ours"

"Hearts Like Ours" is the first single from The Naked And Famous' recently released album 'In Rolling Waves' - the follow up to their successful debut album 'Passive Me, Aggressive You' from 2010. They seem to be much more indie pop on "Hearts Like Ours" and less synth-pop... a move that was based on a preference to play live without backing tracks. "Hearts Like Ours" is an achingly catchy song that may hang around in your head for a long period of time.

KENNA "RELATIONS"

Forget twerking - this is much more fun.

CocoRosie - "Tearz for Animals"

CocoRosie recently released their fifth album 'Tales of a Grass Widow' and if you want my opinion, which could be somewhat biased - based on a long time obsession, it is an amazing album. There are so many songs that may end up on this blog, but let's concentrate on only one right now. "Tearz for Animals" features Antony Hegarty on vocals, along with Bianca Casady's sweet childlike singing voice and her sister Sierra's more classical vocal style, providing us with a song full of character. Do you have love for human-kind? You sure will after you listen to this.




Here is a fantastic live version.......

Pandora - Cocteau Twins

Speaking of Pandora (a couple of posts back), the Cocteau Twins also sang about a Pandora in the 80's. However, it sure wasn't about the girlfriend of Adrian Mole. "Pandora" was from the Cocteau Twins' third album 'Treasure'- an album that was the template for their sound thereafter. They were as unique as you could get, even in a period when the indie scene was ever changing and developing quickly from the punk roots. Maybe only Sigur Ros' Jonsi would bear comparison to Elizabeth Fraser's ethereal and cathedral style of singing... they even share the made-up language similarities. A real Treasure.

Moby - "The Perfect Life (with Wayne Coyne)"

Who would of guessed this pairing.... turns out Moby and Wayne Coyne are friends, after meeting when Moby and The Flaming Lips were both opening for the Red Hot Chili Peppers back in the mid 90's. From Moby's forthcoming 'Innocents' album, "The Perfect Life" is the anthem that all other anthems envy. It may be a Moby song with Wayne Coyne helping out, but it feels more like Moby has just walked into Flaming Lips-land. I feel spring in the air.

Ian Dury - "Profoundly In Love With Pandora"

For anyone who read Sue Townsend's book 'The Secret Diary of Adrian Mole 13 3/4' in the 80's was probably a fan of the TV series as well. If you missed it, grab the book now - you are guaranteed some laugh out loud moments. The theme song "Profoundly In Love With Pandora" by Ian Dury, was the icing on the cake. In fact, I couldn't think of a more suitable artist than Ian Dury.

Grandaddy - "Miner At The Dial - A - View"

With all the International spying allegations and our own Government Communications Security Bureau changes, just remember it wasn't that long ago when something like the dial-a-view was your best chance of spying on someone.

The Rolling Stones - "Monkey Man"

For us that didn't get to experience the Stones at their peak, we didn't miss too much because the records were always there anyway - but because my mates and I discovered their back catalogue retrospectively and at different levels, we all had favourite songs that seemed to differ from each other. However, there was one song that was universally loved and that was "Monkey Man" from 'Let It Bleed.'

Bad Bad Hats - "Super American"

Never judge a band by their name. Bad Bad Hats isn't the greatest band name but obviously it's the music that matters and that is where they redeem themselves. Their EP 'It Hurts' is fucking fantastic - I can't emphasise it any more than that. The highlight is "Super American" which is getting plenty of airplay on Bitter FM and is quickly becoming another obsession. Put on the headphones and bliss out.

Houndmouth - "On The Road"

Kentucky band Houndmouth don't pretend to be trendsetters - they play country-folk blues the way The Band did in the 60's and 70's with a touch of the Lumineers from today. Their debut album 'From the Hills Below the City' has just been released and it seems that they are touring constantly to promote it. Good old fashioned values aplenty.

Stereolab - "Super-Electric"

Stereolab were one of the most interesting bands of the 90's and highly influential to many bands that followed. The combination of vintage instruments, Krautrock, 60's French pop, Lounge music, Shoegaze and Indie rock was a blend that surpassed greatness. "Super-Electric" first appeared on the 10" EP of the same name. It was later released on the 'Switched On' album, which combined the 'Super-Electric' EP with the previous EP 'Super 45' along with the 7" single "Doubt" and its B-side - all from 1991. Pure genius!

Wah! Heat - "Seven Minutes to Midnight"

Pete Wylie had many incarnations of 'Wah!' and "Seven Minutes to Midnight" was from the 'Wah! Heat' period. The reference to the title of "Seven Minutes to Midnight" is the Doomsday Clock, a symbolic clock from the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists, which was moved to seven minutes to midnight in 1980, the year this song was recorded. This was the raw sound of the early (post-Joy Division, pre-Smiths and pre-synth pop) 80's. The Wah! early collection 'The Maverick Years' is a must for all indie music fans.
A bit of trivia - the Doomsday Clock moved ahead to five minutes to midnight earlier this year.

Roma di Luna - "Plans to Leave"

Roma di Luna was a band featuring husband and wife team Alexei and Channy Moon Caselle. Channy has one of the greatest singing voices that you (possibly) haven't heard. The band ended with the dissolution of their marriage and Channy is now a member of the band Polica. Although "Plans to Leave" was written well before the split, it does sound quite chilling with the knowledge of what was about to happen.

office space printer beatdown (and family guy version)

Sometimes it's best to bypass the technician or IT department and just do what has to be done.

Frazey Ford - "One More Cup Of Coffee"

Frazey Ford, founding member of The Be Good Tanyas, and the sweetest voice in bluegrass, released her solo debut 'Obadiah' in 2010. The album may have surprised some Be Good Tanyas fans because it is more soul than bluegrass. But one thing is for sure, they wouldn't have been disappointed at all. Her cover of Bob Dylan's "One More Cup Of Coffee" finds some middle ground. Fucking gorgeous... the Bobster would be proud.



A soul number to bring tears to your eyes.

The Books - "Take Time"

Experimental folk band The Books have somehow evaded me until now. "Take Time" is from their second album 'The Lemon of Pink' released in 2003. The New York duo featuring Nick Zammuto and Paul de Jong are more than capable musicians, but when it comes to sound collages they are hard to beat. The Books may be a hard read for some - but if you are on the same page, you are in for a treat. Spotify the album and you will know instantly - return unread or renew.

Camera Obscura - "Break It To You Gently"

Camera Obscura have had a near flawless career since their debut album in 2001 and with their latest (fifth) album 'Desire Lines' the legacy continues. Tracyanne Campbell's lyrics can move you one minute and make you smile the next. But it is her voice that I can't get enough of. "Break It To You Gently" has a video that is as special as the music itself.

The Eversons - "Creepy"

Like the 'Front Bottoms' - The Eversons are also self deprecating and humourous. The laughs come from the differences between the singer and the backing singers. They think he's creepy but he's just in love, so he says.

Lorde - "Royals"

It looks like our little secret is out.

Lumerians - "Life Without Skin"

I've been away in Auckland for a few days - in case you thought I had run out of songs to post.
Here is a taster for the forthcoming Lumerians album 'The High Frontier' released later this month. The song "Life Without Skin" is a piece of psychedelic scariness. Well the scariness is realised more through the suspenseful video. Stalked by alien freaks or on a paranoid acid trip... maybe a bit of both. Freaky!

Tall Dwarfs - "The Brain That Wouldn't Die"

The wait has been very long - but finally it's happening. Yes, that's right, Flying Nun are finally releasing the impressive catalogue of theirs digitally (as well as CD's and reissued vinyl). They have joined up with Arch Hill Records with a website full of goodies from both labels and the numbers are basically growing daily. Check it out at http://flyingout.co.nz - but after you've played this classic Tall Dwarfs song "The Brain That Wouldn't Die."

Mr Gnome - "House of Circles"

Ohio duo Mr Gnome are certainly not your garden variety indie rockers. From Cat Power and PJ Harvey influences to riffs that would make Black Sabbath proud - Mr Gnome have done it all... and all of it well. "House of Circles" is a powerful potpourri of musical styles. This is a stadium rock anthem from a little indie duo. I've always loved "House of Circles" but the film they have created to accompany it has made it so much more powerful. I'm going to start repeating myself - so it's best you just check it out for yourself and share, share and share this little masterpiece with the universe.

Ben Watt - "Lone Cat (Holding On)"

Ben Watt's early material, whether solo or with Tracey Thorn in Everything But the Girl, was pure folk. So considering his acoustic beginnings, he ended up as one of the go-to dance music producers. After adding beats to EBTG songs in the mid 90's, I suppose he caught the beat buzz and never looked back. His House Music label Buzzin' Fly had the London club scene Buzzin' for years.

Tiny Ruins - "You've Got the Kind of Nerve I Like"

Tiny Ruins is the musical project for Hollie Fullbrook. Her debut album 'Some Were Meant For Sea' was released by Spunk Records in 2011 and I just couldn't get enough of this track "You've Got the Kind of Nerve I Like" from the album. Minimalism at its very best. WARNING! This may cause obsessive behavior.

Doe Paoro - "Born Whole"

Doe Paoro is a New York based singer/songwriter with a difference. The difference is that while traveling through the Himalayas, she trained in Lhamo, a Tibetan folk opera tradition, at the Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts. The style of singing in the tradition that dates back to the 14th century, is described as being vocally acrobatic. Her vocal training was life changing for her.... and as you will hear on "Born Whole," we are the better for it. "Born Whole" was inspired by a woman she met in Cambodia who had lost her husband during the Khmer Rouge period, while pregnant. She told her about her constant search for another husband. This made her think about the mythical idea that we must have that partner for our life to be complete. Like we are born whole but become half when we lose that attachment. It's a beautiful piano led indie-pop/soul song - oh, her vocals are pretty good as well.

Napoleon XIV - "They're Coming to Take Me Away, Ha-Haaa!" and much, much more....

Napoleon XIV's one hit wonder "They're coming to take me away, ha-haaa!" was released in 1966. It was a big hit but lost its momentum after many stations in the USA banned it because of the mental health theme. Basically, the song is about a guy losing his marbles after his dog disappears. It was quite clever at the time because of the new technology that allowed the change of pitch, as if being sped up, but without any change to the tempo - a technique that became quite common and annoying... chipmunks come to mind. While it is quite basic, and is nothing other than novelty, it still holds up quite well today.



The B-Side was the song played backwards. There a no satanic messages but it's freaky all the same. I'm tempted to playlist this on Bitter FM.
"!AAAH-AH ،YAWA ƎM ƎʞAT OT ʚИIMOƆ ƎЯ'YƎHT"


"They're coming to take me away, ha-haaa!" actually had an answer song (I love answer songs) released the same year - it was from, who else? but Josephine XV. The song "I'm Happy They Took You Away, Ha-Haaa!" was from her perspective and used much the same song structure. One comment on Youtube about this song was "I think they took the wrong person away" and I can't disagree with that.
Josephine XV - "I'm Happy They Took You Away, Ha-Haaa!"


But wait there is more!
The Emperor (aka. Bob Hudson) released "I'm Normal" in the same year, still. It was more an imitation or parody than a cover version.
The Emperor - "I'm Normal"

Three Phone Calls

Jerky Boys - "Auto Mechanic"
We will start this phone call trilogy with The Jerky Boys. The prank calls from these guys were regularly played on bFM and we couldn't get enough of the Frank Rizzo character. It led to bad impersonations at the pub with even worse New York accents.



Bob Newhart - "Defusing A Bomb"
Bob Newhart's stand-up comedy routines were predominantly one sided phone conversations. His deadpan delivery was key to his success in a style of comedy that he made his own.



Fred Dagg - "The Phone Call"
During the 70's John Clarke's Fred Dagg character was a local hero. The stereotypical Kiwi farmer allowed us, including stereotypical farmers, to laugh at ourselves and our culture.

David Lynch - "Star Dream Girl"

David Lynch is better known as a film director, but his films usually have a strong musical component to them - from increasing the impact of dark, intense and disturbing visual scenes, to musical performances from either cast members or from artists in a dingy darkly lit bar. His most successful collaboration was with Angelo Badalamenti for the Twin Peaks TV series. David Lynch has just released his second solo album 'The Big Dream' and while it is miles away from 'Twin Peaks,' it is still captivating. Like his movies, there is no predictable direction or conclusion. The first single "Star Dream Girl" is a powerful gothic blues gem.

Suede - "Indian Strings"

"Indian Strings" comes from Suede's 1999 album 'Head Music.' Brett Anderson may be singing about heartbreak, but with the sweeping strings and wonderful psychedelic indie-pop soundtrack, our empathy is easily replaced with self-centred enjoyment.
Post brit-pop glory!

Lee Hazlewood - "Some Velvet Morning" - Phaedra & Grandpa

Lee Hazlewood's final album 'Cake or Death' was released after his diagnosis of renal cancer. It was a fitting farewell. He even included friends and family on a couple of tracks. One was his granddaughter Phaedra, who thought "Some Velvet Morning" was written about her. Something like this would normally come across as self indulgent and tacky, but not when it is Lee Hazlewood. Priceless.



If that whet your appetite - here is the original

Eleanor Friedberger - "Stare at the Sun"

Eleanor Friedberger released her second solo album 'Personal Record' last month and it is worthy of all the praise. Her original band 'The Fiery Furnaces' (a duo with her brother Matthew) broke up or went on hiatus a few years ago and she has reinvented herself as a solo artist with much more consistent songwriting. The Fiery Furnaces were great at times but were also sometimes either self-indulgent or intentionally challenging. 'Personal Record' is strong throughout. "Stare at the Sun" is catchy, hypnotic and upbeat - an ideal indie rock single and perfect for radio. The album is very much a personal record, the themes and lyrics are certainly ambiguous, but also quite revealing at times.

Josh Rouse - "Julie (Come Out of the Rain)"

Josh Rouse released his ninth album 'The Happiness Waltz' earlier this year. As you can hear on "Julie (Come Out of the Rain)" he has now perfected that catchy pop-folk sound he started with the essential 'Under Cold Blue Stars' album from 2002.

Dawn Penn - "You Don't Love Me (No no no)"

Jamaican reggae artist Dawn Penn first released "You Don't Love Me (No no no)" in 1967 and re-recorded it again at the same studio (the famous Studio One recording studio and label) more than 25 years later and released it as a single in 1994. History repeating.

Sagat - "Fuk Dat"

I remember this song being on high rotation on 95bFM in Auckland after its release in the early 90's. I've only just found out that there was a clean version called "Funk Dat" - thankfully student radio allowed us to hear it like it was meant to be heard. The beats are a bit basic (more like something I do on Garageband quite easily) but in 1993 it sounded fantastic and the creation of loop based music wasn't as easy as it is now.... the iMac was still about 5 years away.
Here is another verse, but from the 'glass half full' perspective. "Why is it? every time I go and buy a coffee in this town - when I finally get it - it's perfect - Fuk Dat... is great."



Fine Print... thank you for excellent coffee - Storehouse (Chemex), Belmondo, French Cafe, Sierra, Replete and BP to name a few.

Morrissey - "Irish Blood, English Heart"

"Irish Blood, English Heart" has to be the greatest song of Morrissey's Post-Smiths solo career, or at least from the latter half of his solo career. "Irish Blood, English Heart" comes from his back-to-form 'We Are the Quarry' album released in 2004. It's not just Morrissey in top form here - the band is on fire. Fantastic!!

Peter Sellers - "A Hard Day's Night"

After hearing about Peter Sellers' interpretations of Beatles songs at a dinner party a couple of years ago, I finally got around to checking them out and "A Hard Day's Night" has been added to Bitter FM playlists.

Lorde - Tennis Court

From a British perspective the last week has been quite good. The British and Irish Lions won the rugby series in Australia, Chris Froome is leading the Tour de France, the cricketers have won most sessions so far in the ashes test - although the Aussie fightback was unbelievable and gave them a slight edge, but there is some thrilling cricket to come in this test. Oh, and Andy Murray won his second major with his Wimbledon title.... speaking of tennis, Lorde has a new single out called "Tennis Court", fuck I admit - this is such a crap segue because Lorde isn't even British. But I will keep calm and carry on... Lorde had a number one hit here with "Royals" from her EP 'The Love Club' and she has now followed that up with her "Tennis Court" single. At only 16 years old and still at school, who knows what the future holds for her, but if she can learn a lot from this experience, she may have a fruitful career. She confirmed one thing for us recently (probably not that surprising). That even having a number 1 single and EP for weeks doesn't necessarily transfer to a lot of funds. In a recent interview she stated that her bank balance was a single figure and that her eftpos card was declined when buying a subway sandwich. Sign of the digital age or bad management? I don't know, but if you run into her at some stage, shout her a sub.



Royals

Lee Hazlewood - "I'm Glad I Never..."

Lee Hazlewood released one of the greatest break-up albums when 'Requiem for an Almost Lady' came out in 1971. But unlike most of the well known break-up albums, this one is full of wit. "I'm Glad I Never..." explains a doomed relationship perfectly... and all in just over one minute.

The Chills - "Molten Gold"

First we had a unexpected new single and album from David Bowie and then more recently a new single from The Pixies and now out of nowhere comes a new single from The Chills. I don't know what the next surprise will be (a double album from The Smiths might be asking too much) but I'm enjoying these comebacks. For Chills fans - this one is Gold.

Blood Ceremony "Goodbye Gemini"

Canadian band Blood Ceremony are taking the flute back to metal fans a few decades after another band somehow got away with doing the same thing. Blood Ceremony are not another Jethro Tull, however, the comparisons will be inevitable to all that stumble upon them. Apart from the flute being the instrument of choice for vocalist Alia O'Brien, the band is otherwise a stomping metal outfit that would've been as much at home in the 70's... or even a couple of centuries ago in relation to their lyrics. The themes are witches, black magic and rituals etc - Hammer Horror style.

Serge Gainsbourg - "Requiem pour un con"

Trip hop. We know all about trip hop. It originated in the early 90's. The founding bands and artists were Massive Attack, Tricky and Portishead. It originated in Bristol. That's it in a nutshell.....

Well maybe not. It just may have originated in 1968 in Paris.

Small Black - "No Stranger"

New York quartet 'Small Black' have a new single "No Stranger" from their second album 'Limits of Desire' and it is a dreamy synth-pop song that may find them a wider audience. With the lyrics "Take me, I can be whoever you want/You’re no stranger to me" the theme is obvious and the video drives the theme home perfectly... in a slightly unexpected way.

Pixies - "Bagboy"

I noticed a headline the other day 'Kim Deal quits The Pixies' and I thought WTF, they broke up years ago. Turns out they have reformed. And luckily for us, before Kim Deal left they recorded at least one song, we know that much because it has just been released as a single and given away on their website. Although, I should say that I can't confirm Kim Deal was present for the recording of this, but it sure sounds like her on backing vocals. It's true that Frank Black has been quite active since the Pixies first broke up and a lot of it has been great - but I didn't expect him to ever sound so much like the Pixies again, or as we remembered them. Maybe I should give credit to the other members because they really have pulled it off with the single "Bagboy". There won't be another 'Doolittle' but this is pretty fucking good all the same. Where is my mind?!!

Emika - "Centuries"

Emika is an English musician of Czech origin. Her second album 'Dva' has just been released on Ninja Tune. She has moved further into darkwave territory and away from her dubstep beginnings. "Centuries" is certainly dark, with a video to match, but the pulsating beat is hypnotic and even a bit uplifting. But don't be fooled - this is no shiny happy feel-good number. In fact, it takes you into the depth of sadness towards the end, which is even reminiscent of Henryk Gorecki's 'Symphony No. 3' featuring Dawn Upshaw. Emika may have joined the likes of Grimes with this album.

Tina Turner - "The Acid Queen"

The Who's Tommy is possibly the greatest rock movie of all time. Tina Turner's performance as The Acid Queen is one of many startling performances by the star studded cast - including members of The Who themselves. Memories of Ann-Margaret rolling around in baked beans and chocolate spewing out of her TV, Elton John performing "Pinball Wizard" while wearing platform boots a few feet high and Keith Moon as the drunken dodgy Uncle, all come to mind. But it's Tina Turner's Acid Queen that was the show stealer ... but only just. I think it must be time to revisit the Tommy movie.

French for Rabbits - "Goat"

French for Rabbits have followed up their sublime debut EP 'Claimed By the Sea' with a new single that will take your breath away. The single "Goat" is an intimate confession, rather than an apology, about being as stubborn as a goat. The cello adds to an atmosphere already haunted and melancholic. Sensational!
Don't be stubborn enough to let this one pass you by.



Download it at this address http://frenchforrabbits.bandcamp.com/

Paul Kelly - "Bradman"

We know Bradman was a cricketing legend and we also know Paul Kelly is an Aussie singer-songwriter who is also a brilliant story teller. Here is his tribute to the greatest batsman ever. But I'm actually posting this because I just want to talk cricket for a change - but I won't because this is a music blog not a sport blog. I don't like cricket.... I love it!



I better not add a moment in cricket history either.

Hot Hot Heat - "Pickin' It Up"

Hot Hot Heat are an indie rock band from Canada. Their second album 'Elevator' features "Pickin' It Up", a catchy rock number that, surprisingly, was not released as a single. Elevator was released in 2005. Like an actual elevator, the songs on the liner notes are listed from 15 down to 1 and had no 13th song - like the 13th floor button in some elevators.

Field Mouse - "Tomorrow Is Yesterday"

Field Mouse are a New York dream pop band. They definitely have some shoegaze influences. A sound something like Lush, Sleeper and My Bloody Valentine getting together with Smashing Pumpkins... in fact, the title "Tomorrow Is Yesterday" says it all, in that regard.

Klima - "The City"

Klima is the musical project for London based French chanteuse Angele David-Guillou. Her self-titled debut album was released in 2007. "The City" was my introduction to Klima's beautiful melancholic vocals and after rediscovering it again just recently, I need more. So it will not be long before you hear more Klima on Bitter FM.

Sonny and the Sunsets - "Green Blood"

Sonny and the Sunsets have a new album out 'Antenna to the Afterworld.' It's an album inspired by the death of a friend and the psychic contact with another. But he turns that dark theme on its head and what we get is a kind of sci-fi concept album full of interesting characters... aliens mostly. "Green Blood" is a love story like any other love story - they meet, face many challenges and then part because of their differences. Oh, and she just happens to be an alien with an angry cyborg husband after them. Confirmation that Sonny Smith is an artist in every sense of the word.

I CUBE - "Adore"

I first came across "Adore" by I:Cube as part of a Hotel Costes compilation 'A Decade' from DJ Stéphane Pompougnac's series. "Adore" lives up to its title and sounds as good on the radio as it would in some cool cafe or bar. Downbeat at its best.

Not the Nine O'clock news - Rowan walk!

A classic



A bit of an insight

Willy Moon - "Railroad Track"

Willy Moon is a London based Kiwi artist signed to Jack White's Third Man Records label. "Railroad Track" is from his debut album 'Here's Willy Moon' released a couple of months ago. It's a short genre melding steam train that leaves the station sooner than expected. Willy Moon somehow manages to bring early rock n' roll and blues into the modern technology age. "Railroad Track" samples ARC Choir's "Walk With Me" - a song that Kanye West also sampled on "Jesus Walks."



ARC Choir - "Walk With Me"

Rilo Kiley - "Let Me Back In"

The previous blog post was a love letter to Paris from Malcolm McLaren - so I will stick with that theme. This time though, it is a love letter to Los Angeles from Rilo Kiley. Their recently released archives album 'Rkives' was a bit like a confirmation that they have called it quits as a band... but with a thank you gift. All is not lost though, with Jenny Lewis now well established as a solo artist. "Let Me Back In" is an outtake from the 'Under the Blacklight' album. For fans... this is faRKing essential!

Malcolm McLaren - "In The Absence Of The Parisienne"

Malcolm McLaren's 'Paris' album was a treat for jazz fans and francophiles alike.... however, just about everyone else, including respectable critics, thought it was cheesy, pretentious or didn't know what to make of it. But I come from the francophile side, followed by the jazz side, and I thought it was (mostly) fantastic. "In The Absence Of The Parisienne" is a great jazz track with Satie style piano and some sweet jazz percussion. But what does it for me is the looped strings (I presume it is looped strings) track. Even his voice can't ruin this one. Merci Monsieur McLaren.

Beck's Edison bottle

My favourite beer, a cool independent label and a few creative minds have done something amazing with "Here She Comes" by Ghost Wave. Way Cool.

Wilco - "Jesus, Etc"

While we are on the subject of the Sept. 11 World Trade Centre attacks (the previous blog post), Wilco's "Jesus, Etc" from their brilliant 'Yankee Hotel Foxtrot' album, must be the greatest song about the WTC attacks that wasn't actually about the WTC attacks. Like much of the album, including the cover artwork, the references are all coincidental. The album was due for release on September 11, 2001. Although, it was delayed in the end. Did Jeff Tweedy have a precognition at the time he wrote this song? No... just a fascinating coincidence.

Lyrics
Jesus, don't cry
You can rely on me honey
You can combine anything you want

I'll be around
You were right about the stars
Each one is a setting sun

Tall buildings shake
Voices escape singing sad sad songs
Tuned to chords strung down your cheeks
Bitter melodies turning your orbit around

Don't cry
You can rely on me honey
You can come by any time you want

I'll be around
You were right about the stars
Each one is a setting sun

Tall buildings shake
Voices escape singing sad sad songs
Tuned to chords strung down your cheeks
Bitter melodies turning your orbit around

Voices whine
Skyscrapers are scraping together
Your voice is smoking
Last cigarettes are all you can get
Turning your orbit around

Our love
Our love
Our love is all we have

Our love
Our love is all of God's money
Everyone is a burning sun

Tall buildings shake
Voices escape singing sad sad songs
Tuned to chords strung down your cheeks
Bitter melodies turning your orbit around

Voices whine
Skyscrapers are scraping together
Your voice is smoking
Last cigarettes are all you can get
Turning your orbit around

Last cigarettes are all you can get
Turning your orbit around
Last cigarettes are all you can get
Turning your orbit around

Elvis Perkins - "While You were Sleeping"

At a time of loss - I have a song from an artist who released his debut album after a very difficult time. In fact, a very difficult time for many other people as well. Elvis Perkins is the son of actor Anthony Perkins (of 'Psycho' fame - probably my favourite movie of all time) and Berry Berenson, a model, actress and photographer. His father died when he was in his teens and his mother died on September 11, 2001, as a passenger on American Airlines Flight 11, which was deliberately crashed into the World Trade Centre... as we all know. His debut album 'Ash Wednesday' was released in 2007. "While You were Sleeping," was written before the World Trade Centre attacks, but like some of the post-Sept 11 songs on the album, it is reflective of his relationship with his mother.

Theremin trilogy

The Inventor


The Film Composer


The Rock Star

Tricky - "Chinese Interlude"

Tricky's new album 'False Idols' is up there with his debut 'Maxinquaye' on many levels. Firstly, the most obvious, is the quality of the songs. Secondly, his attitude is the same as it was when he started his solo career and released his debut... no pressure put on himself and just doing what he wants and what feels right. It is hard to find a track that stands out on such a great album. However, there is one that is a bit different and ironically it doesn't have much input from Tricky himself. He has many vocal guests on all his releases and one of them this time is Fifi Rong, a London based - Chinese born singer/songwriter producer. The song "Chinese Interlude" is described well in its title. A beautiful interlude written and performed by Fifi Rong. So for me, when I downloaded 'False Idols' I got an album by Tricky back at his best and I got to discover a new artist in Fifi Rong.... two for the price of one. 'False Idols' may not be as important to the trip-hop and music world as 'Maxinquaye' was - but it is as important to everyone who bought that album and wanted more.

The Babies - "Mess Me Around"

I heard "Mess Me Around" by The Babies again (on Bitter FM, of course) and this time around it reminded me so much of the Flying Nun 'Dunedin' sound of the 80's and 90's. There is definitely some Verlaines, a little bit of The Clean and slightly more Look Blue Go Purple... or is it just me? Either the observation of the day or the most meaningless piece of information you heard all day.

Lower Plenty - "Strange Beast"

"Strange Beast" by Australian band Lower Plenty is gothic country/folk/blues at its best. From the baritone vocals to the ghostly and distant backing vocals, it has a kind of darkness that I crave. A wonderful strange beast it is.

Vampire Weekend - Hannah Hunt

The news of a new Vampire Weekend album didn't have the excitement the previous 'Contra' album had when that was at pre-order stage. That one was expected to match the debut and it ticked all the boxes. This time though, I just thought I could probably give their third album 'Modern Vampires of the City' a miss. Maybe the first two albums satisfied my need for quirky African indie rock music and there is so much good music around anyway. Well that was before I heard "Hannah Hunt" - so disregard all above comments.

Natasha Leggero - LA Gang Tours

Here is some comedy from Natasha Leggero. Check out her album 'Coke Money' for one of the best comedy albums in recent times.

The Front Bottoms - "Au Revoir (Adios)"

The Front Bottoms are an indie-rock band from New Jersey. "Au Revoir" is from their fourth album 'Talon of the Hawk' released last month. If "Au Revoir" doesn't put a smile on your face, don't worry, there is help available and I hope you have a speedy recovery. Au Revoir.

Laura Marling - "Master Hunter"

It is so good to hear the Bob Dylan influences in one of the voices leading the new generation of folkies or nu-folk. If you can't hear the Dylan influences on "Master Hunter" you better go back and listen to some old Dylan again... although, that's not punishment, you'll thank me. Anyway, back to Laura Marling, she has just (this week) released her 4th album 'Once I Was an Eagle' and it took me by surprise. After a Spotify listen it quickly became clear that this album is a keeper. The first four songs blend into each other like a 16 minute epic... or taken as a whole album, maybe a saga. Overflowing with heartbreak and introspection, 'Once I Was an Eagle' is a very personal album from an artist with a maturity way beyond her 23 years.

Wampire - "Orchards"

Polyvinyl is a small independent label with an impressive roster of artists including Japandroids, of Montreal, Casiokids and Sonny and the sunsets, to name a few. They have lots of cool vinyl releases available at their website as well as downloads. A recent release is the debut album 'Curiosity' from Portland duo Wampire. The harmony heavy "Orchards" has a dream-pop feel to it and it isn't a bad introduction to their music. Vonderful!

O Superman - Laurie Anderson

How about another unexpected hit. "O Superman" was a hit in 1981 for experimental performance artist Laurie Anderson. It wasn't the production values or even the catchy tune that won people over... more than likely the lack thereof.

The Flying Lizards - "Money"

The Flying Lizards took on the punk ethic of DIY... but may have forgotten to buy proper instruments and if they had a budget it was more than likely spent on a round at the pub. Ironically, their cover of Barrett Strong's "Money" earned them lots of the stuff. It was an unlikely worldwide hit in 1979... quite impressive really when you consider that this was a time when overproducing was the norm.

Sprengjuhöllin = "Ketrum yfir Ísland"

Sprengjuhöllin are an indie-pop band from Iceland. "Ketrum yfir Ísland" is from their 2007 album 'Timarnir okkar' - an album full of wonderful pop moments. "Ketrum yfir Ísland" is upbeat and very uplifting.... even considering the language barrier. The best pop-folk band you've never heard of.

Sarah Silverman talks about her Paris Hilton joke

When are the Sarah Silverman Program reruns going to return to Comedy Central?

Cloud Nothings - "Stay Useless"

Cloud Nothings are an indie-rock band from Ohio. "Stay Useless" came from their 2012 album 'Attack on Memory' and can still be heard on Bitter FM regularly. Engineer Steve Albini has certainly helped them with the heavier sound they were after for this record.

Kammerflimmer Kollektief - "Aum A Go-Go"

My latest obsession, thanks to emusic, is Kammerflimmer Kollektief. I've just downloaded their 2010 album 'Wildling' and on the strength of it, I'm sure the others will follow. The sound of Kammerflimmer Kollektief is jazz based but with an experimental electronica twist. "Aum A Go-Go" is a 'Tortoise' sounding jazz instrumental that finishes with some abstract vocals.... like no other abstract vocals.

The Drive-By Truckers with Kelly Hogan - "I'm Your Puppet"

The Drive-By Truckers with Kelly Hogan is a live combo I would want to upsize. I've already seen her live as part of Neko Case's band and she is an outstanding singer with plenty of personality. The Drive-By Truckers would be a band I wouldn't miss if they ever made it to this part of the world. The live audience here were in for a real treat when she joined them for a countryfied version of the soul classic "I'm Your Puppet."

Say Lou Lou - "Julian"

"Julian" is the second single from twin sister act 'Say Lou Lou' and it is quite addictive. They have some retro elements but the chorus is pure dream pop of today. The cover artwork even reminded me of something.

Public Service Broadcasting - "Spitfire"

Public Service Broadcasting are a London based duo who sample old films, archive footage and public information films with their style of electronica, which features real instruments, including drums, instead of the usual computer based beats. Their debut album 'Inform - Educate - Entertain' has only just been released and it is something special... and definitely lives up to it's title.



Here is another song to Inform - Educate - Entertain.
Public Service Broadcasting - "Everest"

The Mockers - "Forever Tuesday Morning"

Today was a case of "Forever Tuesday Morning"... marginally better than Forever Monday Morning. Actually, my Tuesday was fine, I just needed a song for today's post and that's all I could come up with. Although, I have got a little bit of trivia to add - Andrew Fagan, the lead singer from The Mockers, is now a talkback host. So he now could be experiencing "Forever Tuesday Morning" for real.

Victor Borge

Victor Borge was the man that gave us "Phonetic Punctuation". He was a born performer and entertained audiences for more than 75 years. Here is one of his later routines.

Escondido - "Black Roses"

I was at the local bar the other night and someone happened to say "there is such a great variety of music out there now and we can access most of it instantly - but what is missing is something that blends Mariachi, by way of Morricone with Calexico, by way of Mazzy Star, but in a surreal David Lynch style" and the place just went silent... there was a sense of loss in all of us. After about a minute of silence someone from the other end of the bar shouted "have you heard of Escondido?"... priceless.

The Phoenix Foundation - "The Captain"

The Phoenix Foundation have a new album 'Fandango' out now. And as I would have said about their last one... it's their best yet. They never fail to impress their legion of fans (okay, the number of fans may be small but they are extremely cool) with albums that reward them more and more with each listen. "The Captain", the first single from Fandango, is a synth-pop song for people who don't like synth-pop... maybe.
Actually, this song reminds me more of 'My Morning Jacket' than any other artist - but best of all, it still sounds very much like The Phoenix Foundation.

Capital Cities - "Safe And Sound"

Los Angeles indie-pop duo Capital Cities released this catchy little gem "Safe and Sound" in 2011 as a single from their self-titled EP. Their debut album is released in June and a fantastic video for "Safe and Sound" has surfaced very recently.... so don't be surprised if this song is released as a single again to promote the album. It does have 'hit' all over it and the video may be the difference this time.

Savages - "Shut Up"

When I first heard "Shut Up" by English band Savages I was amazed. How could a band sound so new and expressive in their own right - but also sound so much like Patti Smith, Siouxsie and the Banshees, and Joy Division? It's like 1979 was just last year.

Julie Driscoll and Brian Auger - "This Wheel's On Fire"

Bob Dylan has many great songs... far too many to list. The Dylan covers are much the same.... practically a category of their own. One of them is Julie Driscoll and Brian Auger's version of "This Wheel's On Fire" from 1968.

The Uncluded - "Delicate Cycle"

When the Moldy Peaches went on hiatus in 2004 - I didn't really take much notice of the solo material from the two main members, Adam Green and Kimya Dawson thereafter. However, just recently Adam Green collaborated with Binki Shapiro for the brilliant 'Adam Green and Binki Shapiro' album. And now we have an interesting collaboration between Kimya Dawson and Aesop Rock. They are performing under the name 'The Uncluded' and have an album 'Hokey Fright' coming out very soon. If it is anything like the single "Delicate Cycle" it will be a must-have. For best results - play it loud and don't forget the fabric softener.

Artists United Against Apartheid - "SunCity"

First there was "Do They Know It's Christmas" and then the Americans had their own anthem for Africa "We Are the World" and finally Little Steven and just about every musician in the world (in 1985) had an anti-Africa anthem. The protest was against artists who chose to perform at South Africa's SunCity resort while South Africa continued with their apartheid policy. Less than a decade later the country couldn't have been more different. Check out what Little Steven did before the Sopranos and have a laugh (and cringe) while picking out all the others.

Jenny Lewis - "Happy"

With the arrival of Rilo Kiley's 'rkives' album, I've been enjoying the unreleased old stuff so much that I'm now going through all the Jenny Lewis solo material as well, from the rkives on my iPod.... again and again. For this blog though, I've found a fantastic live acoustic version of "Happy" from her debut solo album 'Rabbit Fur Coat'. She seems so relaxed that even the puppet doesn't faze her.



Some more happiness



Now we're all happy.

Erik Satie - "Gymnopédie No.1"

Could this be the earliest chill-out song ever written?

Toro Y Moi - "Never Matter"

Toro Y Moi is the stage name for American indie/chillwave musician Chaz Bundick. We probably play more of his remixes than actual Toro Y Moi songs on Bitter FM - but I'm sure that will change over time. The video for "Never Matter" is proof that a good idea can bring better results than a large budget.

Lest We Forget

Today is Anzac day. The day Australia and New Zealand commemorate their fallen soldiers. I am going to use this important date in our calendar to remember a couple of musicians lost to us very recently.... from both sides of the Tasman. Chrissy Amphlett of the Australian band Divinyls died a few days ago at her New York home after a battle with cancer. The Divinyls will always be remembered for "I Touch Myself" but we will always remember the contribution Chrissy Amphlett made to music. She brought 'sexy back' to music... well before what's-his-name claimed to.

Divinyls - "I Touch Myself"


We in New Zealand were shocked with the news of Dave McArtney's death just over a week ago. He was a founding member of Auckland band Hello Sailor and went on to form Dave McArtney & The Pink Flamingos. Neither of those bands had international success but were well respected in New Zealand. The first single from the self titled album by Dave McArtney & The Pink Flamingos was "Virginia" and of all their songs, it's the one I remember most fondly.

Dave McArtney & The Pink Flamingos - "Virginia"

Pale Fountains - "Jean's Not Happening"

This post is a bit self-indulgent of me (a bit like Bitter FM, I concede) but I needed to hear this song again... as it had slipped off the radar. I remember loving it so much at the time. Somehow it didn't make the transition from vinyl to CD and digital over that period of time. "Jean's Not Happening" was a single from the Pale Fountains second album '...From Across the Kitchen Table' released in 1985. They were a post-punk band who liked to bend the genres. They had a love for 'Love'... that's Arthur Lee's band 'Love', but here on "Jean's Not Happening" they sound more like a blend of post-punk and white soul a la Lloyd Cole. The guitarist/singer Michael Head later formed 'Shack' and he continued his relative obscurity, while being critically acclaimed.
I need to transfer this song to digital and get it on air... it's about time we made 'Jean Happening'.

Veronica Falls - "Bad Feeling"

London band Veronica Falls released their second album earlier this year. But we're going back to a song from their self titled debut from 2011. The single "Bad Feeling" still gets plenty of airplay on Bitter FM. Like many young indie bands at the moment, they are influenced by the sound of the 60's and 70's. If you told people that this song was by the actual grandchildren of 'The Mamas & The Papas', I'm sure most would believe you. No bad feeling here.

Jack White - Record store day 2013

It is Record Store Day today, which is a big day for music geeks and musicians. It does help to live in a big city though. I called in at the local CD shop, just in case they had some new vinyl for the occasion, but it wasn't to be. Okay, I didn't really expect them to, or even blame them for not getting involved.... in fact, Jason from the CD shop informed me that we are lucky to even have a CD shop, as some nearby towns i.e. Rotorua, no longer do. I wasn't going to let that stop me, it is Record Store Day after all, so I'm not going home without some vinyl, end of story. I only had one option, an option that wasn't anything new to me, I should add. Obviously it was going to be a tour of the Op Shops and I just happen to know them quite well. The only problem is the amount of James Last, Mantovani, Richard Clayderman and Roger Whittaker albums you have to sift through on your quest, which usually ends up fruitless... other than the knowledge that those artists must've sold truckloads of records that were (possibly) hardly played. It was the Hospice shop that paid dividends for me today. The price of $1 for 5 records has bargain written all over it. But (yes there is a but), it is actually hard to find 5 that you would want to take home, unless, of course, you are a fan of James Last and co. For anyone still reading this post - I will list my Record Store Day purchases below....
I haven't googled or wikipedia'd any of the records at this stage, so my knowledge of these records is exactly the same as when I bought them.
Record 1, 'From the Meticulous to the Sublime' by Blossom Dearie. Condition VG. I don't know anything about this artist whatsoever, which is exactly what I'm after with Op Shop purchases, other than the Beatles Butcher Cover or similar.
Record 2, 'The Best of' by Johnny Tillotson. Condition Excellent. As above... not familiar to me at all.
Record 3, 'No Regrets' by The Walker Brothers. Condition Excellent. It looks a bit dodgy going by the cover... like it is well after their peak. It also seems to be a covers record... but it is The Walker Brothers, so there is at least some credibility. Anyway, at 20 cents, no big deal if it stinks.
Record 4, 'Words & Music' by Jackie Trent & Tony Hatch. Condition VG. I've got a few Jackie Trent EP's so I'm familiar with the twee 60's sound. This was an obvious choice when it presented itself.
Record 5, 'The Best of' by Louis Armstrong. Condition VG. This is a double album in a sublime gatefold sleeve. And it features my favourite Louis Armstrong song "La Vie En Rose".... the gold nugget of my Record Store Day purchases.
Not quite living up to a visit to Real Groovy Records... but at least I can say I participated in Record Store Day.


The Record Store Day video below, featuring Jack White, is proof that he isn't just a brilliant musician... it is hilarious.

Charles Bradley - "You Put The Flame On It"

Charles Bradley had a career as a James Brown impersonator until he was discovered by Daptone Records owner, Gabriel Roth, in the early 2000's. He eventually released his debut album 'No Time For Dreaming' in 2011, at the tender age of 62. His new album 'Victim of Love' continues the 60's/70's soul/funk revival sound that the Daptone Records label specialises in.... and perfects. "You Put The Flame On It" from the 'Victim of Love' album, is classic Marvin Gaye soul. For all the undiscovered old-timers out there, never give up - Charles Bradley is your inspiration.... although, having a voice like his would help.