FYI, things are up and running at www.brockwellmusic.co.uk now with songs being posted every two weeks or so and I feel I'm beginning to find my groove. Not quite there yet and still evolving but close.
Head there if you'd like to. Also, get in touch if you'd like to work together. On vocals, on spoken word, on artwork, on visuals, on anything. It might be fun. We might not like each other but then again, we might.
Who knows.
love.
Thursday, 25 August 2011
Monday, 18 July 2011
Closed for business
Thanks for the memories, for the interaction and for any kind words.
My new (soon to be multimedia) project can be found here.
Brockwell
Brockwell Twitter - This will have details of my new releases, gigs and also my DJ sets
You can also like me on Facebook if you so desire, it doesn't get you anything, yet. I will be using it to announce the various visual elements that go with my music but it's all still very much in the early days so hang tight.
See you around, take care
My new (soon to be multimedia) project can be found here.
Brockwell
Brockwell Twitter - This will have details of my new releases, gigs and also my DJ sets
You can also like me on Facebook if you so desire, it doesn't get you anything, yet. I will be using it to announce the various visual elements that go with my music but it's all still very much in the early days so hang tight.
See you around, take care
Monday, 6 June 2011
Sunday, 22 May 2011
Saturday, 14 May 2011
SBTRKT Abbey Road sessions
One of my most anticipated electronic albums of this year and one of the sets I'm most looking forward to at Glasto, SBTRKT performing live with Sampha on vocals. (Probably UK only I'm afraid)
http://youtu.be/2xfiXZJJAdw
http://youtu.be/2xfiXZJJAdw
Thursday, 12 May 2011
Wednesday, 4 May 2011
While I'm away...
A list of what I'm listening to can be found on this Spotify playlist and by looking at my Last FM profile recently listened..
I'm really enjoying my music at the moment, both new and old, so I'd recommend checking those lists out if you have some spare time and don't know what to listen to.
Thanks.
I'm really enjoying my music at the moment, both new and old, so I'd recommend checking those lists out if you have some spare time and don't know what to listen to.
Thanks.
Monday, 2 May 2011
Good Man
I'm in a bit of a weird place at the moment so instead of letting it bleed onto here as I've done in the past, I'm going to retreat a little bit.
It's not easy to explain so I won't.
See you soon probably. Enjoy this in the meantime, it's not a hint at how I'm feeling or anything, it's just a brilliant song.
It's not easy to explain so I won't.
See you soon probably. Enjoy this in the meantime, it's not a hint at how I'm feeling or anything, it's just a brilliant song.
Thursday, 28 April 2011
This is beautiful
I was going to write something sappy to go with this but I've got nothing. Instead, enjoy one of the most heartwarming things I've seen, for geeks at least.
Ghostpoet - Survive It
Not feeling all that inspired at the moment, words aren't coming easily, even if the passion for music is still flowing. There's a reason I don't do this professionally sadly.
Anyway, I've been really feeling this Ghostpoet album recently, atmospheric and intricate hip hop. Check it.
Anyway, I've been really feeling this Ghostpoet album recently, atmospheric and intricate hip hop. Check it.
Tuesday, 19 April 2011
Explosions in the Sky album playback
Climbing through Greenwich park last night I was surrounded by kids on bikes enjoying their Easter holidays, lovers basking on the grass digesting the remaining sunshine and tourists marvelling at the uninterrupted view of South East London. And what a view it really is with the National Maritime Museum in the foreground, to our towering financial district and the iconic O2 Arena off to the right. As I reached the summit of Greenwich park where the Royal Observatory is situated, I was struck by how beautiful and captivating I find London, at once peaceful and hectic.
I'd made my way to The Royal Observatory as I was lucky enough to win tickets for a very special occasion, a playback of the new Explosions in the Sky album accompanied by visuals in the Planetarium. I've never been to a planetarium before so had little idea what to expect but it suffices to say that what I was about to encounter was truly a unique experience.
After gently ushering us into a small domed room, we sat on extremely comfortable reclining chairs with our views squarely focussed on the dome above us. As the lights dimmed, the beginning stabs of Last Known Surroundings rung out and the night sky lit up above us. We were shown the various constellations, how they fit into the night sky in different times of the year and how their physical arrangement was mapped out to their names and subsequent signs of the zodiac.
We were shown different stars, introduced to far away planets and shown layouts of planets, solar systems and even galaxies. It was no simple slideshow however, the night sky spun above you, as if you were weightless in space, tumbling through the never ending abyss and identifying parts as they crossed your view. All the time the majestic Take Care, Take Care, Take Care echoed around us with each tumble and explosion in the music echoed in the visuals as we sped through space.
As there was no "talk" to detail what exactly we were seeing, some of the information and locations were a little lost but the grandeur of Explosions in the Sky more than made up for these minor details and provided a suitably expansive and thrilling 45minute journey through Space.
What became even more apparent during the playback was the various rises and falls that Take Care, Take Care, Take Care and, in a wider sense, Explosions in the Sky have become known for. Though the quality of the album never drops, musically it either propels you along or loosens the rope slightly, letting you drift through the quiet moments before hurtling off into the next flurry of guitars and drums. To hear these ebbs and flows whilst flying through an asteroid field or watching the Andromeda galaxy form before you was quite spectacular.
When it came to a hushed and soothing end, it was obvious that everyone in attendance had witnessed something quite magical. Simon from Bella Union said a few words before the show commenced, remarking "It's not often we get a new Explosions in the Sky album so I wanted to mark this occasion with something special". By allowing a few lucky and passionate Explosions in the Sky fans to experience such a brilliant album in this way was truly a special experience and one I'll never forget.
Take Care, Take Care, Take Care is available now, from Bella Union.
I'd made my way to The Royal Observatory as I was lucky enough to win tickets for a very special occasion, a playback of the new Explosions in the Sky album accompanied by visuals in the Planetarium. I've never been to a planetarium before so had little idea what to expect but it suffices to say that what I was about to encounter was truly a unique experience.
After gently ushering us into a small domed room, we sat on extremely comfortable reclining chairs with our views squarely focussed on the dome above us. As the lights dimmed, the beginning stabs of Last Known Surroundings rung out and the night sky lit up above us. We were shown the various constellations, how they fit into the night sky in different times of the year and how their physical arrangement was mapped out to their names and subsequent signs of the zodiac.
As there was no "talk" to detail what exactly we were seeing, some of the information and locations were a little lost but the grandeur of Explosions in the Sky more than made up for these minor details and provided a suitably expansive and thrilling 45minute journey through Space.
What became even more apparent during the playback was the various rises and falls that Take Care, Take Care, Take Care and, in a wider sense, Explosions in the Sky have become known for. Though the quality of the album never drops, musically it either propels you along or loosens the rope slightly, letting you drift through the quiet moments before hurtling off into the next flurry of guitars and drums. To hear these ebbs and flows whilst flying through an asteroid field or watching the Andromeda galaxy form before you was quite spectacular.
When it came to a hushed and soothing end, it was obvious that everyone in attendance had witnessed something quite magical. Simon from Bella Union said a few words before the show commenced, remarking "It's not often we get a new Explosions in the Sky album so I wanted to mark this occasion with something special". By allowing a few lucky and passionate Explosions in the Sky fans to experience such a brilliant album in this way was truly a special experience and one I'll never forget.
Take Care, Take Care, Take Care is available now, from Bella Union.
Saturday, 16 April 2011
Record Store Day 2011
I want to talk about what record shops mean and most importantly, independent record shops.
As a youngster buying music in Medway, the choice of record shops was small and for independents, even smaller. We had an Our Price, a Virgin (later 2) and of course supermarkets. For independents, there were only really two stores that would go beyond the obvious and these of course were the independents, Sounds Perfect and Magic Discs. Though my experience with Magic Discs was a one off, it was an small store overflowing with rarities, imports, second hand records but notably, it stocked local bands. I remember being proud to walk into Magic Discs and converse at length with the owner about The Long Weekend whose 7" he had proudly displayed on the counter, a local Medway band who had a defined britpop sound.
Sounds Perfect was a relatively large store, for Chatham anyway but was again filled to the brim with back catalogues, T Shirts, music DVD's, instruments and posters. As my music tastes broadened, they were able to accommodate the records I was looking for and offer their insight into where to look next for fresh and exciting sounds.
I think my first trip to Rough Trade East was an over £100 job as I was so swept away by the depth of knowledge of both the staff, the variety of new and rare releases and it's calm and inviting atmosphere. Despite being in the heart of "London cool", it has no snobbishness about it , there is no posturing, just a group of people passionate about what they listen to. Every trip back to RTE has been an expensive but worthwhile one and it also serves a damn good coffee.
One last tale for you courtesy of my experiences at Banquet Records in Kingston. As you know, summer 2008 I cam across a folk band called Mumford and Sons. After a quick trip to Banquet Records to pick up their debut EP on 10" (this makes me sound like a dick I know, I'm not much), the very kind staff offered me some recommendations based on who I was purchasing. We talked about Chess Club and their roster and the guy behind the counter thought I should also try the new Cherbourg EP. Accepting, I bought their 10" and 6 months later, they were headlining my very first club night.
I think my point is that independent record shops are full of people who truly care about music. They are not their to put sales experience on their cv and pay their way through college. An independent record shop is a place where only music matters and people are willing to share that love and passion for music with whoever is willing to listen. It is the physical embodiment of the music blogosphere. An independent record shop is a candy store for music lovers. To cut through all these painful metaphors, it is a thrilling and knowledgeable place.
Support your local record shop, ask them what they are listening to and I'm sure they'll name something you've not heard of. Buy music, revel in it's presentation and it's feel, know that you are offering not only fiscal support to EVERYONE involved in making that record but also see it as a way to say "thank you" for creating something that may possibly change your life.
Monday, 11 April 2011
Monday, 4 April 2011
Many words will be written on the end of LCD Soundsystem. Some will be full of praise and admiration for all that James Murphy and co. have achieved over the years, others will call them overrated and a band that were hyped by the media beyond a level they ever really deserved.
Whatever your opinion, there is no more of a fitting tribute than this, a 3h40m marathon through their back catalogue in front of a sold out Maddison Square Garden with a guestlist that you simply would not believe.
This show, as every show I've seen LCD at, is littered with exceptional moments. Murphy's rant that is Losing My Edge has never seemed more fitting in front of thousands of adoring fans and it is hard to ignore the poignancy of playing All My Friends after just 45minutes and then being joined onstage throughout the next 3 hours by equally adoring artists. Was there any other track that they could finish the show on apart from New York, I Love You?
This is one of the shows where it's really not possible to choose a highlight, the entire show gives me goosebumps and if LCD have ever meant anything to you, it will do the same to you.
Did I shed a little tear at the end? Perhaps. Am I ashamed? Not in a million years.
Whatever your opinion, there is no more of a fitting tribute than this, a 3h40m marathon through their back catalogue in front of a sold out Maddison Square Garden with a guestlist that you simply would not believe.
This show, as every show I've seen LCD at, is littered with exceptional moments. Murphy's rant that is Losing My Edge has never seemed more fitting in front of thousands of adoring fans and it is hard to ignore the poignancy of playing All My Friends after just 45minutes and then being joined onstage throughout the next 3 hours by equally adoring artists. Was there any other track that they could finish the show on apart from New York, I Love You?
This is one of the shows where it's really not possible to choose a highlight, the entire show gives me goosebumps and if LCD have ever meant anything to you, it will do the same to you.
Did I shed a little tear at the end? Perhaps. Am I ashamed? Not in a million years.
Saturday, 2 April 2011
Burial - Street Halo
New material involving Burial is always greeted with equal amounts of excitement and skepticism. Why have his releases been so limited since the outstanding Untrue, why is he focusing on collabs instead of solo stuff, why won't Kode 9 release the thousands of Burial tracks he must be sitting on.
Of course, this is what happens when musically someone is so talented, what you have simply isn't enough. Collaborating with Four Tet created two incredible tracks and lead him to collaborate with Thom Yorke, again creating 2 bleak and sonically beautiful cuts. Burial seems to have always worked at his own pace and the fact that Burial and Untrue were just 18 months apart says nothing about his projected work flow or what we should expect from him going forward. Kode 9 has been exceptionally transparent in regards to new Burial material... there is simply no idea. It comes when it comes and he's not holding ti back to fit release schedules, coincide with live performances or simply out of spite. Hyperdub let their artists breathe and create at their own pace.
Street Halo is the first solo release from Burial since the aforementioned Untrue and clocks in at just over 20 minutes, a sizeable amount for a 3 track EP. Each track is different sonically from it's depth in sound to it's use of instruments to create melodies.
The title track begins with a shuffly 4 to the floor bass beat that could easily have been an off cut from his work with Four Tet and as the track slowly builds to it's sudden pause, we are reminded of how Burial's use of reverb laden synth lines instantly transport you to a lonely 3am bus stop.
As the track drops properly, we again have warped and chopped vocal lines that drift but it is the menacing bass line that seems more purposeful and dancefloor orientated than anything Burial has achieved before. It's funky nature powers through the other instruments, before mysteriously disappearing among a wash of reverse synths, vinyl crackle and various other percussive sounds. The track tends to stop and start, almost crescendoing without ever building or releasing. Burial teases each part, constantly creating new combinations of the various elements to see how they all fit together and it is those reverse synths that are used to really create the sense of tension and unease that litters his work.
One of the most notable elements of Street Halo, as with all other Burial work, is the vocal lines that dance in and out of the foreground of his mixes and it seems more obvious than ever in Street Halo when one vocal lines seems to blend seamlessly into a synth line almost mid-sentence, making you wonder if it were ever even a voice in the first place. That objectification of human elements is key in Burial's productions as he heightens a sense of disconnect and isolation. By questioning if the only human element was indeed ever human in the first place, you are left with a wall of sounds that become more alienating yet enticing.
Though Burial's work often incites feelings of awkwardness and discontent, this is by no means one of those tracks. Instead, the track surrounds you like sap covering a bug, finding yourself smothered in dancefloor beats and luscious production.
The WAV files are available from Hyperdub and the rest of the EP is just as brilliant with Stolen Dog being quite possibly the most sonically dense track Burial has ever created.
Of course, this is what happens when musically someone is so talented, what you have simply isn't enough. Collaborating with Four Tet created two incredible tracks and lead him to collaborate with Thom Yorke, again creating 2 bleak and sonically beautiful cuts. Burial seems to have always worked at his own pace and the fact that Burial and Untrue were just 18 months apart says nothing about his projected work flow or what we should expect from him going forward. Kode 9 has been exceptionally transparent in regards to new Burial material... there is simply no idea. It comes when it comes and he's not holding ti back to fit release schedules, coincide with live performances or simply out of spite. Hyperdub let their artists breathe and create at their own pace.
Street Halo is the first solo release from Burial since the aforementioned Untrue and clocks in at just over 20 minutes, a sizeable amount for a 3 track EP. Each track is different sonically from it's depth in sound to it's use of instruments to create melodies.
The title track begins with a shuffly 4 to the floor bass beat that could easily have been an off cut from his work with Four Tet and as the track slowly builds to it's sudden pause, we are reminded of how Burial's use of reverb laden synth lines instantly transport you to a lonely 3am bus stop.
As the track drops properly, we again have warped and chopped vocal lines that drift but it is the menacing bass line that seems more purposeful and dancefloor orientated than anything Burial has achieved before. It's funky nature powers through the other instruments, before mysteriously disappearing among a wash of reverse synths, vinyl crackle and various other percussive sounds. The track tends to stop and start, almost crescendoing without ever building or releasing. Burial teases each part, constantly creating new combinations of the various elements to see how they all fit together and it is those reverse synths that are used to really create the sense of tension and unease that litters his work.
One of the most notable elements of Street Halo, as with all other Burial work, is the vocal lines that dance in and out of the foreground of his mixes and it seems more obvious than ever in Street Halo when one vocal lines seems to blend seamlessly into a synth line almost mid-sentence, making you wonder if it were ever even a voice in the first place. That objectification of human elements is key in Burial's productions as he heightens a sense of disconnect and isolation. By questioning if the only human element was indeed ever human in the first place, you are left with a wall of sounds that become more alienating yet enticing.
Though Burial's work often incites feelings of awkwardness and discontent, this is by no means one of those tracks. Instead, the track surrounds you like sap covering a bug, finding yourself smothered in dancefloor beats and luscious production.
The WAV files are available from Hyperdub and the rest of the EP is just as brilliant with Stolen Dog being quite possibly the most sonically dense track Burial has ever created.
Friday, 1 April 2011
Friday eargasm: Koreless
Sunday, 27 March 2011
One of the reasons electronic music has always been a passion of mine and I now fight vehemently for it's case as the most free-form and evolving form of music is it's ability to transcend, whether it transcends moments, cultures or genres. It has an ability to pour itself into every available space, taking the shape of whatever gaps there are available.
Easily one of the most commerciably successful examples would be the always innovative Radiohead; their decision to "go electronic" with Kid A showed that a rock band did not need to stick to guitars and it perhaps showed that the term rock band was too simplistic. Radiohead are a band, you can't call them an electronic act with The Bends and conversely, a rock band with Kid A. One of the reasons I turned away from electronic music was it's perceived lack of live performance and as I embraced the energy of four band members working in a tight group to create immense live energy, that element of performance was perhaps missing in electronic music for me.
Of course, it was Radiohead that showed that their need be no disconnect between live performance and electronic music and though others have tried, nobody quite does like electronic rock like Radiohead.
Anyway, enjoy this little video showing how musicians continue to include electronics in their music using the most contemporary instruments such as iPad's whilst still using classical instruments. And of course, it's a Radiohead song they cover.
Easily one of the most commerciably successful examples would be the always innovative Radiohead; their decision to "go electronic" with Kid A showed that a rock band did not need to stick to guitars and it perhaps showed that the term rock band was too simplistic. Radiohead are a band, you can't call them an electronic act with The Bends and conversely, a rock band with Kid A. One of the reasons I turned away from electronic music was it's perceived lack of live performance and as I embraced the energy of four band members working in a tight group to create immense live energy, that element of performance was perhaps missing in electronic music for me.
Of course, it was Radiohead that showed that their need be no disconnect between live performance and electronic music and though others have tried, nobody quite does like electronic rock like Radiohead.
Anyway, enjoy this little video showing how musicians continue to include electronics in their music using the most contemporary instruments such as iPad's whilst still using classical instruments. And of course, it's a Radiohead song they cover.
DJ Spooky + Joshua Roman » Radiohead from The Voice Project on Vimeo.
Thursday, 24 March 2011
Seriously, listen to Benji B damnit.
Last night, an hour with Kode 9 showcasing his new upcoming album which is going to be all kinds of incredible, new Ossie after his storming release Tarantula last week and of course, previewing two of the three new Burial tracks out next Monday. They are of course amazing. I'll do a proper review when I get my hands on the vinyl but listen to the radio rips below for the meantime. It's good. Really good.
Last night, an hour with Kode 9 showcasing his new upcoming album which is going to be all kinds of incredible, new Ossie after his storming release Tarantula last week and of course, previewing two of the three new Burial tracks out next Monday. They are of course amazing. I'll do a proper review when I get my hands on the vinyl but listen to the radio rips below for the meantime. It's good. Really good.
Wednesday, 23 March 2011
Happy Wednesday
Wednesday is probably my least favourite day of the week. Sure, Monday is rough but it tends to be quite slow. Tuesday is fine as you haven't quite hit the full swing of a work week and Sunday has a sense of dread with it for the impending work on Monday but it still starts with a lie in and is a day off work nonetheless.
Wednesday on the other hand is a complete nightmare. Work is in full swing, you're equidistant away from the weekend coming and the weekend gone and generally, it's not close enough to the weekend to warrant going out just yet.
Today however is a blood marvellous day. London is bathed in spring sunshine with blue skies and enough sunshine to start shedding layers. What's even more noticeable is people's moods are beginning to lift with the weather as people on the tube become less moody and faces start to retreat from hunching into their coats and scarves. As I walked down Brixton hill this morning though, I was practically skipping and here's why..
This weekend consists of going to a house-warming party Friday night, Saturday with my sister and DJing at another party Saturday night. And as excited as I am for this weekend, nothing compares to Monday morning.
Have a good Wednesday people and remember, it's only 5 more days until brand new Burial.
Wednesday on the other hand is a complete nightmare. Work is in full swing, you're equidistant away from the weekend coming and the weekend gone and generally, it's not close enough to the weekend to warrant going out just yet.
Today however is a blood marvellous day. London is bathed in spring sunshine with blue skies and enough sunshine to start shedding layers. What's even more noticeable is people's moods are beginning to lift with the weather as people on the tube become less moody and faces start to retreat from hunching into their coats and scarves. As I walked down Brixton hill this morning though, I was practically skipping and here's why..
This weekend consists of going to a house-warming party Friday night, Saturday with my sister and DJing at another party Saturday night. And as excited as I am for this weekend, nothing compares to Monday morning.
Have a good Wednesday people and remember, it's only 5 more days until brand new Burial.
Monday, 21 March 2011
Monday Motivator: Keep Fishin
I'm having an indie day in the office today with no electronics in sight. As much as I love electronic music, sometimes I need to remind myself of the sheer power of real drums, of a distorted guitar and a great indie anthem.
Though Keep Fishin' couldn't quite be described as an anthem, it's a great example of how to combine guitars and pop. Strangely, I first saw this song on music television in Germany and only bought the single so that I could watch the video over and over again. The days before YouTube. One day, I'll have to explain that phenomenon to my children.
Though Keep Fishin' couldn't quite be described as an anthem, it's a great example of how to combine guitars and pop. Strangely, I first saw this song on music television in Germany and only bought the single so that I could watch the video over and over again. The days before YouTube. One day, I'll have to explain that phenomenon to my children.
Wednesday, 16 March 2011
Clubroot - Time Flies
Taken from his very own Soundcloud, Clubroot is probably the best artist I've discovered in the last 6 months, at least. Now you can download all his early work, for free.
Big ups.
"Easy All!!
Here is a collection of tracks I made between 2005 and 2008. Some were given away back in the day but weren't around for long. The earlier dated pieces are some of my very first attempts at 140ish bass music, so please don't expect anything too pristine or polished. All tracks are un-mastered and as raw as the day they were bounced down.
They've been sat on my hard-drive not doing much for a while now, so I thought I would share them with the world.
Please don't re-host / re-upload elsewhere.
Spread the word and enjoy!
Much love
Clubroot"
Clubroot - Time Flies Compilation by clubroot
Big ups.
"Easy All!!
Here is a collection of tracks I made between 2005 and 2008. Some were given away back in the day but weren't around for long. The earlier dated pieces are some of my very first attempts at 140ish bass music, so please don't expect anything too pristine or polished. All tracks are un-mastered and as raw as the day they were bounced down.
They've been sat on my hard-drive not doing much for a while now, so I thought I would share them with the world.
Please don't re-host / re-upload elsewhere.
Spread the word and enjoy!
Much love
Clubroot"
Clubroot - Time Flies Compilation by clubroot
Tuesday, 15 March 2011
Take yourself back to May 2009.
Club Shuffle is in it's infancy, people still care about Mumford & Sons, post-dubstep is in it's ascendancy but still very much niche, the world is a very different place.
Released on Four Tet's own label with no big announcement, no artwork and no sleeve notes, were two of the most incredible pieces of electronica to be released in a very long time. Moth and Wolf Club were a preview to the new dancefloor beats that Four Tet was readying to unleash in 2010 and contained all the quintessential elements of Burial to produce a diverse and instantly addictive sound. The release sold out as quickly as it was released and those of us lucky enough to get our hands on a copy were treated to a unique capture of two great UK producers from different circles not colliding but genuinely collaborating.
Fast forward to 2011. Dubstep is now made by Britney Spears, people turn their noses up at Mumford & Sons and James Blake is now A list Radio 1 as well as playing B2B sets with Kode9 at DMZ.
It's been a whirlwind two years.
Today, Text Records (Four Tet's own label) announced a split 12" with Burial, the first new Burial material since the brilliant Fostercare on the Hyperdub retrospective. Only this time, there's some vocals from a Mr Thom Yorke.
Preorders sold out in about 10 minutes with an expected release date of Monday 21st. With my copy well and truly ordered, 2011 is turning out to be a year to spoil music fans.
Club Shuffle is in it's infancy, people still care about Mumford & Sons, post-dubstep is in it's ascendancy but still very much niche, the world is a very different place.
Released on Four Tet's own label with no big announcement, no artwork and no sleeve notes, were two of the most incredible pieces of electronica to be released in a very long time. Moth and Wolf Club were a preview to the new dancefloor beats that Four Tet was readying to unleash in 2010 and contained all the quintessential elements of Burial to produce a diverse and instantly addictive sound. The release sold out as quickly as it was released and those of us lucky enough to get our hands on a copy were treated to a unique capture of two great UK producers from different circles not colliding but genuinely collaborating.
Fast forward to 2011. Dubstep is now made by Britney Spears, people turn their noses up at Mumford & Sons and James Blake is now A list Radio 1 as well as playing B2B sets with Kode9 at DMZ.
It's been a whirlwind two years.
Today, Text Records (Four Tet's own label) announced a split 12" with Burial, the first new Burial material since the brilliant Fostercare on the Hyperdub retrospective. Only this time, there's some vocals from a Mr Thom Yorke.
Preorders sold out in about 10 minutes with an expected release date of Monday 21st. With my copy well and truly ordered, 2011 is turning out to be a year to spoil music fans.
Sunday, 13 March 2011
I'll Take Care Of You
So far the hottest collab of the year and as expected, it's all kinds of amazing. Perfect for a lazy Sunday afternoon.
Thursday, 10 March 2011
If not, why not?
Benji B has become essential listening. When I've plugged his show in the past, it's been for a certain reason; special guest, amazing track, whatever. However, this takes away from the fact that for 2 hours Benji B plays some of the most interesting electronic music that you are yet to hear. No spinbacks and no MCing, he is becoming the perfect accompaniment to electronic music by letting the sounds breathe and letting them occupy their own space while he fits around them, the same way that MAH used to do.
Last nights show featured new Kode9, a Zomby & Actress colab, new Addison Groove and Radiohead. There were no annoying jingles and no shouted hype about it being the hottest record in the world, just well programmed radio.
God Bless the BBC.
Listen here
Last nights show featured new Kode9, a Zomby & Actress colab, new Addison Groove and Radiohead. There were no annoying jingles and no shouted hype about it being the hottest record in the world, just well programmed radio.
God Bless the BBC.
Listen here
Tuesday, 8 March 2011
Trembling Hands
It's finally here. 4 long years. New Explosions In The Sky. Sounding as beautiful as ever.
Trembling Hands by Explosions in the Sky
Trembling Hands by Explosions in the Sky
Thursday, 3 March 2011
Wednesday, 2 March 2011
Rolling In Extreme Ways
Adele's 21 has been an unqualified global success and rightly so. Though I mentioned Someone Like You on here a while ago now, the album features hit after hit including Rumour Has It and the omnipotent Rolling In The Deep.
As everyone has a pop at turning this already great song into their own with varied success, this simple mashup takes the energy of the song in a completely different direction thanks to Moby's wonderful composition. If you're not sick and tired of this track yet, give this a spin.
DJ Y alias JY - Extreme Ways In The Deep (Mashup) from checkdissout on Vimeo.
As everyone has a pop at turning this already great song into their own with varied success, this simple mashup takes the energy of the song in a completely different direction thanks to Moby's wonderful composition. If you're not sick and tired of this track yet, give this a spin.
DJ Y alias JY - Extreme Ways In The Deep (Mashup) from checkdissout on Vimeo.
Tuesday, 1 March 2011
Monday, 28 February 2011
Out Today: Wounded Rhymes
I've waxed lyrical about Lykke Li many times on here and struggle to believe that it's now been 4 years since her brilliant Swedish pop made it's way into my life.
When that wondrous Little Bit EP first appeared in late 2007, it was clear that this was a young and talented songstress, brimming with emotion and subverting it to leave her music with a slightly suppressed mood to it. Though her music was bold, her performances were controlled and she rarely let loose, on record at least.
2011's Wounded Rhymes finally sees the beast extracted with grandiose compositions, multi-layered vocals and more incredible pop hooks brought into the forefront of her songs. This is most evident in lead single Get Some, first premièred way back in October. It's tribal, aggressive rhythms wrestle with Lykke Li's finally upfront vocals, stating
You know that sexuality that seems to be bubbling under in her early work that I'm always enticed by? It seems she's ready to bring that to the fore now.
The album is brilliant, as expected. Though there aren't as many clear "singles" as the first album had, it is just as complete an effort and with it's bolder and more expansive sound, it feels like Lykke Li has lost her shackles and is truly making the music she wants to make. Those quiet moments from the first also wouldn't feel out of place on this album at all which is important to the continuing growth of her as both a pop star and a more critically acclaimed artist, when newcomers choose to visit her older body of work.
Wounded Rhymes on Spotify
When that wondrous Little Bit EP first appeared in late 2007, it was clear that this was a young and talented songstress, brimming with emotion and subverting it to leave her music with a slightly suppressed mood to it. Though her music was bold, her performances were controlled and she rarely let loose, on record at least.
2011's Wounded Rhymes finally sees the beast extracted with grandiose compositions, multi-layered vocals and more incredible pop hooks brought into the forefront of her songs. This is most evident in lead single Get Some, first premièred way back in October. It's tribal, aggressive rhythms wrestle with Lykke Li's finally upfront vocals, stating
"Like the shotgun need an outcome,
I'm your prostitute, you gon get some"
You know that sexuality that seems to be bubbling under in her early work that I'm always enticed by? It seems she's ready to bring that to the fore now.
The album is brilliant, as expected. Though there aren't as many clear "singles" as the first album had, it is just as complete an effort and with it's bolder and more expansive sound, it feels like Lykke Li has lost her shackles and is truly making the music she wants to make. Those quiet moments from the first also wouldn't feel out of place on this album at all which is important to the continuing growth of her as both a pop star and a more critically acclaimed artist, when newcomers choose to visit her older body of work.
Wounded Rhymes on Spotify
Monday motivator: Me
My DJ appearances are increasing at the moment and with another confirmed over the weekend, it's nice to be out and about playing tunes that I love.
My next gig in March is a bass night and the guy booking the night asked me to put together a mix for him with some of my favourite bass lines, but luckily avoiding dubstep. As much as I love dubstep, I cannot DJ it to save my life and though my sets are become more vibey I still play music I'm confident with and confident my audience will enjoy.
As the gig is now booked, I thought I'd share the mix with you to get you going on a Monday. It's a mixture of some older stuff and stuff I've never tried to play before but I think it works pretty well.
Anyway, I hope you enjoy and have a good Monday.
Mix for Paolo by alexleppert
My next gig in March is a bass night and the guy booking the night asked me to put together a mix for him with some of my favourite bass lines, but luckily avoiding dubstep. As much as I love dubstep, I cannot DJ it to save my life and though my sets are become more vibey I still play music I'm confident with and confident my audience will enjoy.
As the gig is now booked, I thought I'd share the mix with you to get you going on a Monday. It's a mixture of some older stuff and stuff I've never tried to play before but I think it works pretty well.
Anyway, I hope you enjoy and have a good Monday.
Mix for Paolo by alexleppert
Friday, 18 February 2011
Jamie xx & Yasmin
More proof, if it were needed, that Jamie xx really is one fo the hottest DJ's out there right now.
Ridiculously talented
Ridiculously talented
Friday Eargasm - Lotus Flower
It's Friday, I have the day off and, oh yeah, THE NEW RADIOHEAD ALBUM IS OUT A DAY EARLY.
After a terrible week, the world is turning my way again. BOOM.
If you've preordered it, it's available now. It's amazing, in case you wondered.
As anyone that's ever seen Radiohead or Thom Yorke live can attest to, the man has some moves and reinforces my belief that you should dance how the music makes you feel, whether people think you look cool or not. If you're having fun without worrying what others think, you're having more fun than those judging you.
After a terrible week, the world is turning my way again. BOOM.
If you've preordered it, it's available now. It's amazing, in case you wondered.
As anyone that's ever seen Radiohead or Thom Yorke live can attest to, the man has some moves and reinforces my belief that you should dance how the music makes you feel, whether people think you look cool or not. If you're having fun without worrying what others think, you're having more fun than those judging you.
Wednesday, 16 February 2011
You're an oxymoron
I've been listening to lots of new music recently which has led to me writing nothing here. This of course is completely against the point of having a place to tell people your opinions on music but this music has been so good, I wanted to listen to it a hundred times and squeeze every bit of joy out of these records before I attempted to tell you about them.
I've good news to report though, much like a teenage boy, you can squeeze and squeeze but the goodness just keeps flowing (too much?).
Ninja Tune released their beautifully packaged retrospective Ninja Tune XX: A History of Beats and Pieces last year to great aplomb, packed full of fantastic reworkings, exclusive remixes and brand spanking new music from one of the greatly innovative labels.
One of the records that stood out immediately from listening through was Double Edge by Emika. Drawing her influences from the evolving Bristol music scene as well as her training as a classical pianist and composer, Emika talks intelligently about the creation of music and how people connect with it's various instruments.
“I am focused on the world of sound and the power of the human voice, the instant connections it makes with listeners, in music. In general I feel there is a lack of vocabulary in the field of electronic music.”
Emika, Ninja Tune profile
Emika went on to live in Germany and it was while she was there that she connected with the legendary Techno club Berghain which has played host to some of the worlds best DJ's. The club is housed in a former power plant and it was while attending nights at Berghain that she noticed the entire building resonating with frequencies. As her interest shifted into how the sounds of the building influenced the songs being played, she was led to investigate the sounds a building would make without the influence of a large sound system impressing sound upon it. After sampling sounds such as strobe lights and drinks cooling systems, she made her field recordings available to Ostugut Ton artists to create music for their 5th birthdau compilation, entitled Fűnf.
Double edge is a breathy piece of electronic music, it's dub bass line and beats could easily be taken as menacing but her softly spoken vocals emerge from the smoke to offer a glimmer of hope, a ghostly apparition that could easily be friend or foe. To use the term glitchy on her vocals is not quite accurate, they stutter instead perhaps and, combined with the beats, highlight her industrial influences from her surroundings to create a piece of 'dubstep' that has very little 'step' to it. As with so much contemproary electronic music, she is perhaps highlighting the benefits that space can offer in a recording, as Scuba has done before here and James Blake since and this space is filled with a cautious ponder, an unnerving openness.
Check out her first single Drop The Other or the darker Double Edge and revel in her treacly music slowly smothering your ears and mind.
Emika - Drop The Other by Ninja Tune
Emika - Double Edge by Paris PngPng
I've good news to report though, much like a teenage boy, you can squeeze and squeeze but the goodness just keeps flowing (too much?).
Ninja Tune released their beautifully packaged retrospective Ninja Tune XX: A History of Beats and Pieces last year to great aplomb, packed full of fantastic reworkings, exclusive remixes and brand spanking new music from one of the greatly innovative labels.
One of the records that stood out immediately from listening through was Double Edge by Emika. Drawing her influences from the evolving Bristol music scene as well as her training as a classical pianist and composer, Emika talks intelligently about the creation of music and how people connect with it's various instruments.
“I am focused on the world of sound and the power of the human voice, the instant connections it makes with listeners, in music. In general I feel there is a lack of vocabulary in the field of electronic music.”
Emika, Ninja Tune profile
Double edge is a breathy piece of electronic music, it's dub bass line and beats could easily be taken as menacing but her softly spoken vocals emerge from the smoke to offer a glimmer of hope, a ghostly apparition that could easily be friend or foe. To use the term glitchy on her vocals is not quite accurate, they stutter instead perhaps and, combined with the beats, highlight her industrial influences from her surroundings to create a piece of 'dubstep' that has very little 'step' to it. As with so much contemproary electronic music, she is perhaps highlighting the benefits that space can offer in a recording, as Scuba has done before here and James Blake since and this space is filled with a cautious ponder, an unnerving openness.
Check out her first single Drop The Other or the darker Double Edge and revel in her treacly music slowly smothering your ears and mind.
Emika - Drop The Other by Ninja Tune
Emika - Double Edge by Paris PngPng
Monday, 14 February 2011
HAPPY VALENTINES
A day to celebrate love, so when better for Radiohead to announce their new album, available for download from THIS SATURDAY. I've shelled out for what the band claim to be the world's first Newspaper album but a digital version is also available.
I Love You Radiohead
Monday, 7 February 2011
Monday Motivator - Fostercare
Blah blah more Burial. What's left in my arsenal to say about this guy? Apart from everything, after years of trying, I'm still yet to convey how his music makes me feel.
After another slightly hedonistic weekend, it's Monday again and though my good mood is still there, it's facing an uphill struggle against fatigue, still feeling slightly drunk and general messiness. It was lovely to meet up with old friends again, Bright Club was fantastic and a Sunday consisting of Jurassic Park, Fifa and Little Big Planet is always an achievement.
The feeling of exhaustion has always personally been coupled with Burial, the floating and spacious nature of his music accurately reflecting the feeling of barely being present in either my body or the situation that body is in. I also find that emptiness strangely comforting, when you barely the only thing to rescue you from your fragile state is sleep, Burial's unobtrusive construction's are just perfect.
Here's Fostercare from the marvellous 2009 compilation 5 Years of Hyperdub.
After another slightly hedonistic weekend, it's Monday again and though my good mood is still there, it's facing an uphill struggle against fatigue, still feeling slightly drunk and general messiness. It was lovely to meet up with old friends again, Bright Club was fantastic and a Sunday consisting of Jurassic Park, Fifa and Little Big Planet is always an achievement.
The feeling of exhaustion has always personally been coupled with Burial, the floating and spacious nature of his music accurately reflecting the feeling of barely being present in either my body or the situation that body is in. I also find that emptiness strangely comforting, when you barely the only thing to rescue you from your fragile state is sleep, Burial's unobtrusive construction's are just perfect.
Here's Fostercare from the marvellous 2009 compilation 5 Years of Hyperdub.
Wednesday, 2 February 2011
The White Stripes - 1997 - 2011
As made official on their website
One of the truly seminal bands from a the generation when I started to care about music in general. I could post videos of my favourite songs or brilliant performances but you know what they are and if you've ever heard The White Stripes, you'll undoubtedly have your own favourite too.
A big loss.
One of the truly seminal bands from a the generation when I started to care about music in general. I could post videos of my favourite songs or brilliant performances but you know what they are and if you've ever heard The White Stripes, you'll undoubtedly have your own favourite too.
A big loss.
Tuesday, 1 February 2011
February Motivator
It's almost as traditional to celebrate the end of January as it is to celebrate the end of December. Traditionally a month for detoxing, fresh starts and trying to break old habits, it is of no surprise that the month turns into a long arduous experience only compounded by the grey and cold weather.
I've managed to keep the intentions I made so far, not typical resolutions perhaps but personal aims to do things and be places have so far proved easier than imagined. Things are basically good. After a month that feels like it lasts 6, we're now into February, a month that barely lasts 4 weeks. It's one of my more favourite months with the promise of Spring in the air and this February is chocablock with amazing things including Warpaint, She Keeps Bees and my first ever experience of worriedaboutsatan. To say I'm excited would be an understatement. There's also Bright Club, lots of meetings with old friends and again, new ventures to be cemented.
Anyway, that's enough about me. For now at least.
I'm going to try and steer motivators away from dance music and play you some brash late 60's funk instead. This song will always remind me of being very young when I first showed an interest in music and though soul and funk wouldn't connect with me at the time, this song is so full of effervescence and soul that it's impossible not to be caught up in its swagger, both then and now.
Here's hoping for a belter of a February.
Friday, 28 January 2011
Friday Eargasm - The Amen Break
It's been a surprisingly good week despite being chockablock busy. Music wise, I'll be honest and say that I haven't really had the time to even look for new music, let alone think of some constructive and worthwhile words to say (some would argue I've never reached that level).
So, in the spirit of doing things differently, here's a brilliantly instructional video about the origins of the Amen break, the drum loop that was chopped and screwed to form beats for most of hip hop, jungle and the earlier forms of drum and bass.
True, it does last for 18minutes but it is so wonderfully instructional and detailed without being complex, anyone with a vested interest in those genres will find it a pleasure to learn the derivation of it's core element - the drums.
So, in the spirit of doing things differently, here's a brilliantly instructional video about the origins of the Amen break, the drum loop that was chopped and screwed to form beats for most of hip hop, jungle and the earlier forms of drum and bass.
True, it does last for 18minutes but it is so wonderfully instructional and detailed without being complex, anyone with a vested interest in those genres will find it a pleasure to learn the derivation of it's core element - the drums.
Thursday, 27 January 2011
Flying Lotus Radio 1 takeover
As I mentioned last week, Benji B's show was taken over by Flying Lotus this week with a whole host of Brainfeeder special guests including Gaslamp Killer, Teebs and Matthew David.
Listen again for 7 days here.
Listen again for 7 days here.
Monday, 24 January 2011
Hendrick's Breakaway
I don't talk Hockey much (not on here anyway) but after what has been a rather hit and miss season where expectations were so high, it is nice to see the Caps returning to what looks like some sort of form and playing some watchable hockey again.
This happened on Saturday night by a player not exactly known for his finesse and the smile on my face stretched from ear to ear.
This happened on Saturday night by a player not exactly known for his finesse and the smile on my face stretched from ear to ear.
Friday, 21 January 2011
Friday Eargasm - 3 Amp Fuse
This weeks eargasm comes from Belleruche, a three piece whose roots lie in soul and blues but over the course of their three albums have always pushed for progression and an ethos that promotes creativity. An unusual lineup of guitar, DJ and vocalist, Belleruche's 2010 album 270 stories was the first time I was really able to connect with the band as they moved on from their almost background soul to a more consistent, evocative and almost abrasive record. The depth in sound that having a DJ offers to a band felt hidden on earlier records but finally it feels like DJ Modest is allowed to offer more than beats to the tracks.
Saying that, the track I've chosen, 3 Amp Fuse, is built around grandiose big-beat drums with little of a 'soul' inflection on the track. The song's swirling claustrophobic atmosphere is the epitome of this record showing that at the core of Belleruche is solid songwriting, fighting off what could easily become a formulaic and tiresome direction. Menacing string lines are introduced as the song builds on the looped drum line and though the song's climax is less than climatic, the song manages to achieve a sense that it has arrived at it's intended destination when it was supposed to and eases slowly out of the climax too.
This is a wonderfully crafted song as it shows that soul does not have to be brash and screechy to still pull decent punches.
Saying that, the track I've chosen, 3 Amp Fuse, is built around grandiose big-beat drums with little of a 'soul' inflection on the track. The song's swirling claustrophobic atmosphere is the epitome of this record showing that at the core of Belleruche is solid songwriting, fighting off what could easily become a formulaic and tiresome direction. Menacing string lines are introduced as the song builds on the looped drum line and though the song's climax is less than climatic, the song manages to achieve a sense that it has arrived at it's intended destination when it was supposed to and eases slowly out of the climax too.
This is a wonderfully crafted song as it shows that soul does not have to be brash and screechy to still pull decent punches.
Thursday, 20 January 2011
Benji B & J Rocc
I'll be the first to admit I was dubious when Benji B took over from Mary Anne Hobbs, it was like a new pet replacing your favourite old one. Yeah it was good but it wasn't the original. Luckily, every week since, Benji B has gone out of his way to prove me utterly and completely wrong with equally brilliant music, great special guests and a presenting style that is completely his own - exactly what I loved in MAH.
Last night was no different with turntablist extraordinaire J Rocc co-hosting and in the mix for a whole hour. The whole show is bright and breezy in keeping with J Rocc's choices and his own styles whilst still previewing some great cuts from his upcoming album, some old school hip hop via modern electronica including Actress and Ramadanman.
Listen again here until next week
Oh, and in case that wasn't enough, next week's show will be hosted by Fly Lo doing a Brainfeeder special.
Wow. BBC know how to make unmissable radio.
Oh, and in case that wasn't enough, next week's show will be hosted by Fly Lo doing a Brainfeeder special.
Wow. BBC know how to make unmissable radio.
Wednesday, 19 January 2011
The return of Death From Above 1979
One of perhaps the most surprising additions to the Coachella 2011 line up was snuck in at the bottom on Sunday, Death From Above 1979. The same dance-punk duo that split in 2006 who ferociously tore apart every live show they played creating a cacophony of noise with just a drum kit and bass guitar. Their stated mission was that a lot of dance music was created with just drums and bass so how far could they take the same formula in a rock environment and the results were instantly pleasing and riotous.
What was created was an electrifying record in You're A Woman, I'm A Machine that tore through 11 tracks in just over half an hour and created a stir for many years.
So, finally, they have decided to return with comments yet to appear from the band about new material etc. However, the thought of DFA1979 rocking Glastonbury may be a little too much for me to take and I'd be perfectly happy to watch them just perform that brilliant debut. The only downside of this reformation may be the decline of MSTRKRFT remixes but again, no comment has been made on the statement of the duo so fingers crossed they can all coexist.
Impossible to choose a favourite song so here's my first, Little Girl.
Let's Make Love and Listen To Death From Above
What was created was an electrifying record in You're A Woman, I'm A Machine that tore through 11 tracks in just over half an hour and created a stir for many years.
So, finally, they have decided to return with comments yet to appear from the band about new material etc. However, the thought of DFA1979 rocking Glastonbury may be a little too much for me to take and I'd be perfectly happy to watch them just perform that brilliant debut. The only downside of this reformation may be the decline of MSTRKRFT remixes but again, no comment has been made on the statement of the duo so fingers crossed they can all coexist.
Impossible to choose a favourite song so here's my first, Little Girl.
Let's Make Love and Listen To Death From Above
Monday, 17 January 2011
Monday Motivator - Just One Second
After an unplanned but pretty heavy weekend, I'm feeling foggy today to say the least. Often unplanned drinks are the best ones and this was no exception with a premiership crown, a Placebo renaissance and consecutive headaches to show for it (no Champions League though).
Today is also known as Blue Monday, supposedly the most depressing day of the year. Now, I'm universally in a bad mood on Mondays so today was no exception and with a long run ahead of me this evening, I'm hoping the adrenaline and exercise will pick me up. My bad moods tend to consist of a lot of frowning, being generally quite quiet and giving up and going to bed quite early; it's safe to say I'm not great at fighting them off.
If you have the Monday blues, I can almost guarantee however that for the 5 or so minutes that this track is on, you'll feel better. I always end up repeating it too so this could easily sort you out for 20 minutes. 20 minutes of happiness on a rainy Monday is actually a pretty reasonable amount too so you should have no complaints.
London Elektricity - Just One Second
Today is also known as Blue Monday, supposedly the most depressing day of the year. Now, I'm universally in a bad mood on Mondays so today was no exception and with a long run ahead of me this evening, I'm hoping the adrenaline and exercise will pick me up. My bad moods tend to consist of a lot of frowning, being generally quite quiet and giving up and going to bed quite early; it's safe to say I'm not great at fighting them off.
If you have the Monday blues, I can almost guarantee however that for the 5 or so minutes that this track is on, you'll feel better. I always end up repeating it too so this could easily sort you out for 20 minutes. 20 minutes of happiness on a rainy Monday is actually a pretty reasonable amount too so you should have no complaints.
London Elektricity - Just One Second
Wednesday, 12 January 2011
Adele - Someone Like You
I've been sitting on this song for a while now, trying to think of a mature and eloquent way to describe it. Then you realise it is written and sung by a 21 year old and think that some songs don't need deconstructing and explaining, sometimes they're just brilliantly written. This is rarely my type of music so that should highlight just what a wonderful track this is.
I'll openly admit that I've paid little attention to Adele but if the rest of her upcoming album is anywhere near as good as this, it'll be a cracking offering.
Take 5 minutes of your day to just sit and listen.
I'll openly admit that I've paid little attention to Adele but if the rest of her upcoming album is anywhere near as good as this, it'll be a cracking offering.
Take 5 minutes of your day to just sit and listen.
Monday, 10 January 2011
Monday Motivator - I Crave Paris
Whenever I DJ, I almost always play the Aeroplane remix of Friendly Fires' Paris. The remix has moved from the relative underground into mainstream over the last 12 months and continues to grow in popularity with a wide range of crowds; the indie kids love the Friendly Fires reference and the dance crowd love the dirty breakdown and the chilled-house vibe.
Appearing towards the end of summer 2010, originators the remix Aeroplane took Flight Facilities' Crave, put the accapella on top of their Paris track and remixed their own remix. Still with me?
Anyway, check it out, it's not quite the 7 minute epic that Paris is but to hear a different vocal over the top that seems to have almost been made for this track is a treat.
I Crave Paris by Aeroplane (Official)
Appearing towards the end of summer 2010, originators the remix Aeroplane took Flight Facilities' Crave, put the accapella on top of their Paris track and remixed their own remix. Still with me?
Anyway, check it out, it's not quite the 7 minute epic that Paris is but to hear a different vocal over the top that seems to have almost been made for this track is a treat.
I Crave Paris by Aeroplane (Official)
Saturday, 8 January 2011
This
Often I've commented on how lyrics say the words I'm thinking but am notoriously bad at saying.
I've also said that Big Poppa E is one of the most incredible poets that I've ever heard.
Enjoy this and everything else that is on YouTube.
I've also said that Big Poppa E is one of the most incredible poets that I've ever heard.
Enjoy this and everything else that is on YouTube.
January
A week old already. Despite having accomplished a lot in this last week, there is still so much more to do, so many more people to see and more things to be done. It is exciting and terrifying. Plans are once again afoot.
My sense of 'new music' has actually stagnated an alarming amount with only remixes and a few tracks here and there really approaching regular listening. This has given me time to revisit albums that I love and catch up on other's I've missed, for which I'm always grateful. Music is a fuel and though I'm learning to prioritise it in a different way, it is still an indescribable experience to sit down, put on my headphones and truly listen to something.
Anyway, until there's some really incredible music to talk about I'm going to (probably) cut back on here, intentionally for once. I have other projects that are coming to a head that will need discussing soon enough anyway. I'll still have my Friday Eargasms and Monday Motivators when I'm not too busy but as training takes up more minutes of the day, time for writing disappears.
Anyway, you definitely should listen to the London Session by LCD Soundsystem as it's finally on Spotify. Undoubtedly my band of summer 2010, he is not only one of the most intelligent lyricists, but one of the most self-aware and eloquent musicians.
I've linked to All My Friends as it is simply sublime and this live version captures a perviously buried guitar but really, listen to it all. One of the defining bands of our generation, one hopes.
LCD Soundsystem - All My Friends (London Sessions)
My sense of 'new music' has actually stagnated an alarming amount with only remixes and a few tracks here and there really approaching regular listening. This has given me time to revisit albums that I love and catch up on other's I've missed, for which I'm always grateful. Music is a fuel and though I'm learning to prioritise it in a different way, it is still an indescribable experience to sit down, put on my headphones and truly listen to something.
Anyway, until there's some really incredible music to talk about I'm going to (probably) cut back on here, intentionally for once. I have other projects that are coming to a head that will need discussing soon enough anyway. I'll still have my Friday Eargasms and Monday Motivators when I'm not too busy but as training takes up more minutes of the day, time for writing disappears.
Anyway, you definitely should listen to the London Session by LCD Soundsystem as it's finally on Spotify. Undoubtedly my band of summer 2010, he is not only one of the most intelligent lyricists, but one of the most self-aware and eloquent musicians.
I've linked to All My Friends as it is simply sublime and this live version captures a perviously buried guitar but really, listen to it all. One of the defining bands of our generation, one hopes.
LCD Soundsystem - All My Friends (London Sessions)
Wednesday, 5 January 2011
Tuesday, 4 January 2011
Happy New Year
I hope you're well and that 2011 is an exciting and prosperous one for you. It feels good to have a fresh start; it is purely a mental thing as you can make a clean break whenever you so choose but the changing of a calendar year is reason enough to leave the celebratory season behind and start again anew with earnest.
I had a wonderful Christmas break. I was able to catch up with lots of friends, spent lots of time with my family and just enough time doing what I needed to do. As tends to be the case, my highlight was NYE, a fantastic and exhilarating set at PA and then the party at my flat involving disgusting amounts of alcohol, the breaking of our banister, more Spice Girls than I care for and more than one Love Train. A brilliant time with brilliant friends.
So, 2011 begins. The BBC Sound Of 2011 countdown has already begun. Soon enough, festival lineups will start to be announced/flesh out, new albums will start to appear and wonderful remixes will also surface. I feel that I'm heading into this year almost musically blind. I cannot wait for the Jamie XX/Gil Scott-Heron remix album to appear on XL Recordings in the near future. There's also the long-awaited new album from Explosions In The Sky. Apart from that, my musical mind is drawing blanks. There'll probably be another Mumford album but will the pressure be too much to handle? There's also in theory a new Portishead and Radiohead album. Who knows. It'll be tough to beat last year's output but that's what the industry should always be striving for.
I'm going to give my ears a little rest for a few days, the pressure of a 4.5 hour set at PA meant I listened to an awful lot of music to prepare and though I flew blind for almost my entire set, it was an exhausting experience.
In the meantime however, I'd recommend reading this very interesting article by the always brilliant Alexis Petridis regarding the Radio 1 takeover and their policies on New Music and Playlisting.
Happy New Year to each and every one of you.
I had a wonderful Christmas break. I was able to catch up with lots of friends, spent lots of time with my family and just enough time doing what I needed to do. As tends to be the case, my highlight was NYE, a fantastic and exhilarating set at PA and then the party at my flat involving disgusting amounts of alcohol, the breaking of our banister, more Spice Girls than I care for and more than one Love Train. A brilliant time with brilliant friends.
So, 2011 begins. The BBC Sound Of 2011 countdown has already begun. Soon enough, festival lineups will start to be announced/flesh out, new albums will start to appear and wonderful remixes will also surface. I feel that I'm heading into this year almost musically blind. I cannot wait for the Jamie XX/Gil Scott-Heron remix album to appear on XL Recordings in the near future. There's also the long-awaited new album from Explosions In The Sky. Apart from that, my musical mind is drawing blanks. There'll probably be another Mumford album but will the pressure be too much to handle? There's also in theory a new Portishead and Radiohead album. Who knows. It'll be tough to beat last year's output but that's what the industry should always be striving for.
I'm going to give my ears a little rest for a few days, the pressure of a 4.5 hour set at PA meant I listened to an awful lot of music to prepare and though I flew blind for almost my entire set, it was an exhausting experience.
In the meantime however, I'd recommend reading this very interesting article by the always brilliant Alexis Petridis regarding the Radio 1 takeover and their policies on New Music and Playlisting.
Happy New Year to each and every one of you.
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