I Hope Your Ears Bleed » Articles About Music

The Best Music from the Super Bowl XLVI Commercials

Nathan — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 11:26:47 +0000

The commercials from this year’s super bowl may not have been very funny, but they did have some pretty good music. Here is a short list I put together of my favorite songs found in a commercial featured during this year’s super bowl. This list is in no significant order, other than starting with my favorite, the first single from the new Fun. album.

Fun. – “We Are Young (feat. Janelle Monáe)”

FUN. – We Are Young (Radio Edit) by MMMusic

Mat Kearney – “Ships In The Night”

Mat Kearney – Ships In The Night (Radio Edit) by MMMusic

The Darkness – “I Believe In A Thing Called Love”

Ray Charles – What’d I Say

Kanye West – Runaway [Explicit]

BUXTON – “Boy of Nine” Video

Nathan — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 14:25:34 +0000

There’s a new 5-piece indie folk-rock ensemble known as BUXTON that released their debut album this week. With a some prickly guitar, a fast-pickin’ bangjo, and pulsing accordian, it will be right up your alley. You can watch the video for their first single, “Boy of Nine”, below. These guys are playing mostly small venues in the south, but I don’t think it will be long before they really take off. So catch them now, if you get the chance.

BUXTON Tour

Feb 04 Houston, TX – Fitzgeralds

Feb 09 Austin,TX – The Mohawk

Feb 15 New Orleans, LA – Circle Bar

Feb 16 Mobile, AL – The Music Box

Feb 18 Asheville, NC – Broadways

Feb 19 Cincinnati, OH – MOTR Pub

Feb 21 Chicago, IL – Empty Bottle

Feb 22 Nashville, TN – The Mercy Lounge

Feb 23 Atlanta, GA – 529

Feb 24 Shreveport, LA – Shreveport Collective

Feb 25 Dallas, TX - Trade Winds

Man or Muppet?

Nathan — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 14:39:20 +0000

As a child, I absolutely LOVED The Muppets movies. And as an adult, I may actually love them even more. It’s hard to say, which movie is my favorite. I am a big fan of Muppet Treasure Island, although I am pretty sure that The Great Muppet Caper was probably the movie that got the most viewings from me as a kid. But the most recent addition to the series, The Muppets, starring Jason Segel and Amy Adams gives each of those films a run for their money. In many ways this movie was an homage to all of the older films and the late 70′s run TV show. Very whimsical and very fun, and one of the best parts of the movie were the musical numbers. Thanks to the help of Bret McKenzie (Flight of the Conchords) the movie is filled with some very witty and melodic sing-a-longs, including the Oscar-nominated “Man or Muppet”. It’s an awesome ballad that finds our two main characters at a crossroads, needing to find their identity, and make a decision. It’s the climax of the film and has a pretty unexpected and awesome cameo by the hilarious Jim Parsons (Big Bang Theory). If you are a fan of the Muppets, then The Muppets is a must see. And despite what Fox News might try to make you believe, it’s great family-friendly movie.

Sound Supply

Nathan — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 14:39:38 +0000

There is a cool new company called Sound Supply, that is giving us a new way to purchase music. 10 albums for $15. This bundled deal is a fun way to get cheap music and to give some new sounds a chance. Their first bundle includes several artists that have been previously featured here on IHYEB, including Coconut Records (Jason Schwartzman), Colour Revolt, Sophie Madelein, and Andrew Dost (Anathallo, Fun.). If they can continue to get quality artists to contribute, this project could be a big deal.

Supply Drop #1 Trailer from Soundsupply on Vimeo.

Gotye – “Somebody That I Used To Know”

Nathan — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 11:30:39 +0000

Here is my current obsession. I have been playing this tragic break-up tune on repeat for the past couple of weeks. I’m probably going wear it out soon, and I am pretty sure I’ve already ruined it for several of my friends. I don’t really care for all of the remixes and covers that have been floating around for this song. There is just something addictive about the original, and Kimbra’s short little bridge leading into the second chorus about gives me goosebumps every time. Well that’s enough from me, just watch the video and let me know what you think of my current favorite song.

Download the whole album for $8 -Making Mirrors

New Songs from Dr. Dog

Nathan — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 13:27:53 +0000

Indie rock band, Dr. Dog, have a new album coming out on February 7th and we have 2 songs off the new album for you to preview. The band will be heading out on tour in support of Be the Void at the beginning of the month. The ablum is available for pre-order right now if you like what you hear.

“That Old Black Hole”

“Lonesome”

Dr. Dog – Lonesome by antirecords

If they are coming to a city near you, you should definitely attend their show.

February
1 - Columbus, Ohio @ Newport Music Hall
2 - Lawrence, Kan. @ Granada Theater
3 - Boulder, Colo. @ Boulder Theater
4 - Salt Lake City, Utah @ Urban Lounge
6 - Phoenix, Ariz. @ The Crescent Ballroom
7 - Solana Beach, Calif. @ Belly Up Tavern
10 - Los Angeles, Calif. @ The Orpheum
11 - San Francisco, Calif. @ Regency Center Grand Ballroom
13 - Portland, Ore. @ Crystal Ballroom
14 - Seattle, Wash. @ Neptune Theatre
17 - Minneapolis, Minn. @ First Avenue
18 - Chicago, Ill. @ The Vic Theatre
19 - Cincinnati, Ohio @ 20th Century Theatre

March
1 - Pittsburgh, Pa. @ Mr. Smalls Theatre
2 - Louisville, Kent. @ Headliners
3 - Nashville, Tenn @ War Memorial Auditorium
4 - Atlanta, Ga. @ Buckhead Theatre
5 - Birmingham, Ala. @ Workplay
7 - Mobile, Ala. @ Alabama Music Box
9 - Austin, Texas @ Stubb’s Waller Creek Amphitheater
10 - Houston, Texas @ Fitzgeralds
11 - Dallas, Texas @ Granada Theater
13 - Columbia, Mo. @ Blue Note
14 - Indianapolis, Ind. @ Old National Center
15 - Asheville, N.C. @ The Orange Peel
16 - Washington, D.C. @ 9:30 Club
17 - Baltimore, Md. @ Rams Head Live
19 - South Burlington, Vt. @ Higher Ground
22 - Boston, Mass. @ House of Blues
23 - New York, N.Y. @ Terminal 5
24 - Philadelphia, Pa. @ Electric Factory
25 - Philadelphia, Pa. @ Electric Factory

Bon Joviver

Nathan — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 12:44:10 +0000

Indie rock band, Miracles of Modern Science, have given the internet world a fun little treat with their new mini-project, Bon Joviver. They have taken the musical stylings of Bon Iver and combined them with the classic 80′s pop tune, “You Give Love a Bad Name”, written by, of course, Bon Jovi. Thus, giving us the name, Bon Joviver. Short and silly, but very entertaining. I’m pretty surprised that Jimmy Fallon hadn’t already come up with this.

AA Bondy Wants You to Believe

Cody — Mon, 12 Sep 2011 14:45:19 +0000

My day job isn’t running this blog, it’s being the editor of my college newspaper. In that job, I have to make a point to keep any and all biases I might have out. Readers, with this blog I have no such duty to avoid bias, and what I have to say about this album comes from a strong bias I have.

I suppose I should explain this bias I have towards this album. It’s an AA Bias if you will. I’m one of those people who will actually tell you an album changed their life. I’m not sure how it found it’s way to my iTunes library, probably from a music swap with friends, but one day Bondy’s softmore album When the Devils Loose started playing. I think I just hit accidentally hit play on my keyboard, and since A.A. is at the top of my iTunes, it started it. I listened all the way through the album.

It was a rainy day in October, I was pretty stressed out and well… the rest is history. From Mightiest of Guns to The Coal Hits The Fire, I really felt the album. I was transported from my dorm room in Edmond, OK to a Scott Bondy’s living room on a Mississippi night.

Music tastes different after you have yourself a nice big bowl of Bondy. He’s so peaceful, and the musicians he brings with him on his albums compliment him well.

So, needless to say, the idea of another album is pretty exciting. I haven’t forgotten about American Hearts, Bondy’s first album on his own, but it didn’t connect with my the way Devils Loose did. Besides, I wasn’t looking for a prequel; I was looking for a sequel.

Believers is the sequel I’ve been searching for.

The album starts strong. The Heart is Willing is one of the strongest tracks I’ve ever heard from Bondy, and it set a tone for the album that my heart understood a couple miles before my head did (I’m measuring that in miles because I since I do most of my “processing” in my car, it makes more sense to track it in terms of distance than minutes).

The ethereal ending to Heart is Willing goes quite before it leads off into Down in a Fire (Lost Sea). The opening riffs of this song are very Explosions in the Sky-ish, not only in sound but also mood. The song is very somber, very reminiscent of a Sunday evening in November after DST has ended. The track ends with about 45 seconds of delay and feedback effects. A bit different from what I’d expect, but it holds the mood and feels alright.

Skull and Bones is the first track I had to go back and listen to again. I normally like to do my first listen to an album all the way through, but I knew I had missed some stuff about the track and had to go back. The sound of the wind whispering, the harmonizing vocals, the light sounds of brushes on drum heads. The song is very cold. Cold like the first day in September when you should have brought a jacket, but you didn’t because technically it’s still Summer and well the low was only going to be 59, cold. It gave me goosebumps.

But here comes the turning point for the album. Bondy gives us a short break with 123 Dupoy Street and then he lays it on us with Surfer King, and boy does he lay it on thick. When the music swells in at about 3:05, you just ride the wave of sweet, sweet guitary goodness like a surfer king (see what I did there?). This is my favorite track on the album, by far. If you haven’t heard it, go listen to it right now over at NPR. It’s okay, I’ll wait.

After the strong swells and high tides, Bondy takes us on the road for Hiway/Fevers. When I close my eyes I imagine being a passanger in a car, hearing sirens, passing cars and just listening to the sounds of the road at night. Close your eyes, open your ears and free your mind. I have to be careful because it kind of feels like I’m going to be sucked into the song.

It’s not a surprise that the song Drmz has some of the most prominent percussion on the album. The song is a lot lower: in tempo, in tonality and in lyrics. Look at this line, “And if I said I believed in you / We still know what you would do/ Through the door into the blue, it burns.” It’s a dark look at life, and it pulls me down a bit, so I’m just going to go to the next song.

The Twist has a very different sound. It sounds more like a hybrid of his older stuff and the softer stuff he did as a part of Verbena. I felt broadsided by this track the first time it came on. It was like a different album started playing. It’s a good track, but it doesn’t feel like a part of this album.

I always get nervous when I hit the title track of an album. What if it sucks? To me, I always assume that an album’s title track is the artist’s favorite song, otherwise why would they call it that? Rt. 28/Believers might be Bondy’s favorite song on the album. I don’t know, I didn’t send him or his representation an email to find. If it is however, it’s a great choice. All the qualities that made The Twist feel weird to me are resolved in Rt. 28/Believers, which is great since Bondy gives us seven glorious minutes of slide guitar and soft drums.

Silly name, serious music. Scenes From A Circus wraps up a brilliant third album. I think Rt. 28/Believers is a good ending in itself, but the gapless nature of these two tracks put together just makes it even better. So what I said a few lines ago about seven minutes of glorious wonder ends up being more like 11. The tempo slows, the end feels close. Bondy gives us a few last lyrics, and then its cue the 17 second fade.

This album is good, real good. I mean The Twist is a bit of a “twist” in terms of how the album feels start to finish, but it’s not a ruiner. It feels like it’s either in the wrong place in the lineup more than it feels out of place for the album itself. Either way, I guess I could say I’m a believer now. An AA Believer. #pleasedontbecomeatrendingtopic #whyamiwritinginhashtags

All that said, it is with strong personal bias that I recommend you should stop reading this article right now and go listen to Believers on NPR, or buy it on Amazon (MP3 / CD / Vinyl) or iTunes.

If you’re interested in hearing the album that “changed my life,” When the Devils Loose is on Amazon, iTunes and Spotify.

I hope your ears don’t mind the AA Bias. Ω

Help Cass Harris Release First Full-Length Album via Kickstarter

Nathan — Mon, 05 Sep 2011 18:24:27 +0000

Back in the summer of 2008 I first shared with you about a friend of mine that had released an short little self-produced EP called Four for the Road. Well 3 years later Cass Harris has not given up on the dream and is currently working towards a big-time record release. He doesn’t want to just settle for another short little EP recorded with his buddies in some home studio in his cousin’s friend’s mom’s basement. He is doing everything he can to do it right, which means not only a legit studio with great equipment but he’ll be recording with a great team of musicians and then heading down to Houston for mixing by Jay Snider. Snider has worked on albums for both Robbie Seay and Brandon Heath, and most notably is a part of the team that has brought us SerialBox Presents, which is almost like a video version of Daytrotter that has featured such great artists as Paper Route, Balmorhea, David Ramirez, and Trent Dabbs. You should definitely check it out. But more importantly you should check out Cass Harris’ Kickstarter page and consider making a pledge to help these songs see the light of day. The guy is a stellar songwriter and this would be well worth it. Plus your donation doesn’t just go to getting the album made, it gives you a copy of the album or more. Again, worth it. If you can afford it, I recommend choosing the option that comes with Cass cooking a meal at your home. Check out this video below.

New Feist “How Come You Never Go There”

Nathan — Tue, 16 Aug 2011 11:47:36 +0000

The follow-up to Leslie Feist’s delightful 2007 album, The Reminder, is almost here. To say this album is highly anticipated would be an understatement. Metals will be the name of the new record, and it is set to release on October 4th via Interscope Records. The past couple weeks she has been teasing us with a series of video vignettes that can be found here. Finally we’ve been given the first single from the album to stream in full. The track is titled “How Come You Never Go There” and is a very intimate and lovely track. Not exactly what I expected. It’s a very chill track and reminds me a lot of her earlier works, but it sounds very fresh at the same time. I won’t be surprised at all if this ends up being high on my year-end list. Take a listen and let us know what you think.

How Come You Never Go There by Feist

Listen to the New Beirut – “The Rip Tide”

Nathan — Fri, 12 Aug 2011 11:41:22 +0000

NPR’s First Listen series is currently streaming the new Beirut album, which isn’t due out until the end of the month. After just one listen, I am already a huge fan of The Rip Tide. No surprise here though, I have devoured with great pleasure everything that Zach Condon and company have previously released, and I think this album will be no different. Musically it picks up right where they left off; another gorgeous baroque pop album with some absolutely fantastic arrangements. It’s a short record, clocking in at just over 33 minutes, but it packs quite a punch. I just found it to be breathtakingly beautiful, especially the short and sweet “Goshen.” Anyway, I am a fan of the record, but fortunately you can check it out for yourself before making the purchase. It will be streaming here until its official release date on August 30th. Go here to download the first single, “East Harlem.”

The Civil Wars Cover The Smashing Pumpkins’ “Disarm” for Daytrotter

Nathan — Thu, 11 Aug 2011 11:46:57 +0000

Our favorite folk-rock duo recently paid a visit to the fellas over at Daytrotter and delivered a pretty stellar performance, as has become expected. Over six months after its release, I still can’t get enough of their debut album, Barton Hollow. If you still haven’t listened to this record, you can get it for only $6 on AmazonMP3 right now. The highlight of their Daytrotter session is their incredible, stripped down and intimate version of The Smashing Pumpkin’s rock hit, “Disarm.” You can listen to that song below. Head over to Daytrotter to hear the rest of the session.

The Civil Wars – Disarm (The Smashing Pumpkins)

Always Sunny in Colcord

Nathan — Wed, 10 Aug 2011 11:17:08 +0000

So it seriously feels like the hottest summer ever. I was playing volleyball last night in 98 degree weather and it almost felt cool. So to deal with the heat and to help make the hot summer nights on the volleyball courts more enjoyable, I made a pretty jammin’ summer mixtape. And as you will soon find out, I have been really into pop music this summer, partly because it goes well with the season, but mostly because I love to dance. So I thought I would share my summer mixtape with you all in hopes that it might enrich your summer barbecue or beach volleyball parties. Hope you enjoy.

Always Sunny in Colcord

1) The Radio Dept. – Heaven’s On Fire

2) Tennis – Marathon

3) Local Natives – Wide Eyes

Wide Eyes by Local Natives

4) Two Door Cinema Club – Something Good Can Work

Something Good Can Work by Two Door Cinema Club

5) Neon Indian – Deadbeat Summer

Deadbeat Summer by Neon Indian

6) Gorillaz – On Melancholy Hill

7) Miike Snow – Burial

Walk the Moon – Anna Sun
Anna Sun by Walk The Moon

9) Free Energy – Dream City

10) Generationals – Greenleaf

11) Foster the People – Helena Beat
Helena Beat by Foster The People

12) M83 – Midnight City

13) Phoenix – Lasso

14) Ra Ra Riot – Boy

15) Matt & Kim – Cameras
Cameras by mattandkim

16) Robyn – Dancing on My Own
Dancing On My Own by robyn

17) The Temper Trap – Sweet Disposition

18) Freelance Whales – Hannah

19) Sleigh Bells – Rill Rill

20) Edward Sharpe & the Magnetic Zeros – Home

New Laura Marling – “Sophia”

Nathan — Tue, 02 Aug 2011 11:30:14 +0000

Laura Marling has a new album coming out in September called A Creature I Don’t Know and she just released a pretty awesome new track and some tour dates for the fall.

September
17 – San Francisco, Calif. @ Bimbo’s 365 Club
18 – Los Angeles, Calif. @ Masonic Temple
20 – Los Angeles, Calif. @ Troubadour
22 – Chicago, Ill. @ Lincoln Hall
23 – Toronto, Ontario @ The Great Hall
24 – Montreal, Quebec @ Corona
25 – Boston, Mass. @ Brighton Music Hall
27 – Washington, D.C. @ Sixth & I Historic Synagogue
28 – New York, N.Y. @ Webster Hall

Listen to the new song, “Sophia” below

Matt & Kim Play Fallon

Nathan — Mon, 01 Aug 2011 11:00:56 +0000

So Matt & Kim made a visit to Late Night w/ Jimmy Fallon last week and it was like insult to injury for they are coming nowhere near me. And the two cities they hit that would be doable both fall on busy weekends for me. But rather than sulk, I thought I would share their tour dates with all of you and encourage you to go by giving you a glimpse of how awesome their live show will be.

Get their new album for only $5 on Amazon right now – Sidewalks

Block After Block (Single Version) by mattandkim

August
13 – East Hampton, N.Y. @ Music To Know Festival
20 – Hollywood, Calif. @ Sunset Strip Music Festival
27 – Annapolis, Md. @ Silopanna Music Festival

September
7 – Saint Paul, Minn. @ Xcel Energy Center
9 – Bonner Springs, Kan. @ Sandstone Amphitheatre
10 – Noblesville, Ind @ Verizon Wireless Music Center
11 – Clarkston, Mich. @ DTE Energy Music Theatre
13 – Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio @ Blossom Music Center
15 – Burgettstown, Pa. @ First Niagra Pavilion
16 – Saratoga, N.Y. @ Saratoga Performing Arts Center
17 – Camden, N.J. @ Susquehanna Bank Center
18 – Virginia Beach. Va @ Farm Bureau Live
20 – Charlotte, N.C. @ Charlotte Verizon Wireless Amphitheater
21 – Atlanta, Ga. @ Aaron’s Amphitheatre at Lakewood
23 – West Palm Beach, Fla. @ Cruzan Amphitheater
24 – Tampa, Fla. @ 1-800-ASK-Gary Amphitheatre
26 – Woodlands, Tex. @ Woodlands Pavilion
27 – Dallas, Tex. @ Gexa Energy Pavilion
29 – Alburquerque, N.M. @ Hard Rock Casino
30 – Tempe, Ariz. @ Tempe Beach Park Amphitheatre

October
1 – Anaheim, Calif. @ Honda Center
2 – Wheatland, Calif. @ Sleep Train Amphitheatre
5 – Mountain View, Calif. @ Shoreline Amphitheatre
6 – Chula Vista, Calif. @ Cricket Wireless Amphitheatre
7 – Las Vegas, Nev. @ Red Rock Resort
8 – Hollywood, Calif. @ Hollywood Bowl

Foster the People – “Helena Beat” (Video)

Nathan — Sun, 31 Jul 2011 11:53:59 +0000

“Pumped Up Kicks” by Foster the People has been my jam all summer long. I loved the song the second I heard and for whatever reason I wasn’t compelled to go listen to the rest of the album, but rather I was completely content with just listening to that single obsessively. But just recently I decided to give the rest of the album a listen and I completely regret ignoring it for so long. Because I think my obsession new obsession with “Helena Beat” might be stronger than the previous one. And just recently they decided to release a completely bizarre video that makes me want to see them live even more.

Foster the People‘s debut album, Torches is out now and you can get for $10 on Amazon.

Washed Out Cover Chris Isaak’s “Wicked Game”

Nathan — Sat, 30 Jul 2011 20:57:59 +0000

Lo-fi indie darlings Washed Out have done their own version of Chis Isaak’s infamous “Wicked Game.” It’s interesting. That’s about all i got.

Washed Out – Wicked Game (Chris Isaak)

Sophie Madeleine – 30 Days 30 Covers

Nathan — Sat, 30 Jul 2011 11:15:26 +0000

Sophie Madeleine is a young and talented ukulele player that decided to take on a pretty ambitious project to help promote her new album, The Rhythm You Started, which was released earlier this week. For the 30 days leading up the release of the new record she recorded a new cover song chosen from requests made by her fans. Fortunately for us her fans have some pretty great taste in music that span the musical spectrum, making for a pretty entertaining set of videos. She has a lovely voice and as you will see if you watch the videos can do a lot more than just play the ukulele. One of my favorites is her cover of Foster the People’s smash hit, “Pumped Up Kicks.” It is adorable and just as catchy as the original. The project is complete and the album is out so check out the videos here.

More New Beirut – “Santa Fe”

Nathan — Fri, 29 Jul 2011 16:05:25 +0000

Just heard another new Beirut single this week and it has me even more excited for the release of The Rip Tide, which is slated for a digital release on August 2nd. Physical copies will hit stores later that month on the 3oth. It is coming out on Pompeii Records, Zach Condon’s own record label. If you haven’t heard his first single he released, you can find it here.

Buy Beirut’s phenomenal debut album for only $5 here – Gulag Orkestar

Beirut – Santa Fe by smithblogsatlanta

Snow Patrol – “Called Out in the Dark”

Nathan — Fri, 29 Jul 2011 11:59:53 +0000

Snow Patrol will be releasing their follow-up to 2008′s A Hundred Million Suns later this year. Not sure if an official release date has been set for the new album, Fallen Empires, but on September 4th they will be releasing the first single from the album, “Called Out in the Dark.” Not sure if we’ll ever hear anything as solid as Final Straw, but this song is more than tolerable.

Sufjan Stevens & Bryce Dessner – “Pleasure Principle”

Nathan — Thu, 28 Jul 2011 11:46:28 +0000

One of the most epically awesome songs of 2010, Sufjan Stevens’ 25 minute long “Impossible Soul”, ends with a very sweet acoustic lullabye known as “Pleasure Principle.” This little section of the song wraps it up quite nicely and is one of the highlights of Age of Adz. Sufjan recently appeared on WNYC and took the time to play this song with the help of The National guitarist, Bryce Dessner, and fortunately for us it was recorded on video for all to enjoy. Gosh I wish he would come to Oklahoma.

The Age of Adz is on sale on Amazon for only $5 for just a few more days. If you haven’t bought it yet, I suggest you get it here now!

James Blunt Covers Katy Perry’s California Gurls

Nathan — Wed, 27 Jul 2011 12:43:16 +0000

Not a huge James Blunt or Katy Perry fan (although I am guilty of playing Katy when I’m trying to get people to dance), but I am a sucker for pop songs being slowed down and reworked as acoustic folk ballads. Which is exactly what we find Blunt doing on his recent performance for Billboard.com’s horribly titled Mashup Mondays (they never play any mash-ups, only covers). The lyrics are bit ridiculous for the genre and just feel out of place at times as he so earnestly sings them, but it’s pretty enjoyable none the less. Fortunately he didn’t attempt the completely absurd Snoop Dogg rap. You’ll at least find it humorous.

Katy Perry – California Gurls
Katy Perry – California Gurls by EMI Music New Zealand

The Avett Brothers Cover Roger Miller on CMT Unplugged

Nathan — Tue, 19 Jul 2011 11:49:26 +0000

It’s been a little while since we have heard anything new from everybody’s favorite indie bluegrass act. Well they recently took time out of their hectic touring schedule to make an appearance on CMT Unplugged. As a part of their set, they played the classic Roger Miller tune “Where Have All the Average People Gone.” In the vein of their stripped down Gleam EP’s, they slow it down and turn it into a gorgeous ballad that fits right in with the rest of their catalog. I really dig this track and would love to see them release an entire album of old country classics from the 50′s and 60′s. Here’s hoping…

If the video won’t play for you click here to watch in another window.

Spotify Has Arrived! (First Impressions and Invite Giveaway!)

Cody — Thu, 14 Jul 2011 18:57:11 +0000

In the world of music, when an “invasion” occurs on American shores it’s usually bringing something good. Today, Sweedish start-up Spotify has opened it’s doors to the listening public.

Previously available in Finland, France, the Netherlands, Norway, Spain, Sweden and the United Kingdom Spotify brings 15 million songs to the fingertips of users. In the age of sites like Grooveshark, Pandora and YouTube what makes them different? Ease of use.

Click to Enlarge

Just download their desktop player and see for yourself. It integrates with your existing library to maximize what you already have and make it easier to stay up on what those artists are doing right now.

Click to Enlarge

And the best part is that it’s free, or rather it starts out that way. Available in three different flavors, Spotify is about to give Google Music, Amazon Cloud Player, and iTunes Cloud Match a serious run for it’s money.

Spotify Free – the unsurpassed free music service. With an invite, enjoy on-demand, buffer-free access to over 15 million songs on your computer and great social features. Manage your own music files through Spotify, and sync with your cellphone or iPod. Features occasional advertising.

Spotify Unlimited – all the special features of our free service, but with uninterrupted, ad-free access to Spotify on your computer. All for only $4.99 a month.

Spotify Premium – the top-of-the-range Spotify experience. Premium gives you access to all the music, all the time. Listen online or offline, on your computer, your cellphone and a whole heap of other devices. Enjoy enhanced sound quality and access to exclusive content, competitions and special offers. Premium costs just $9.99 a month. (That’s the equivalent of a couple of fancy coffees.)

From Spotify’s Blog

I’ve only been using it for a few hours, and here’s what I like about it:

iTunes Playlist importing and Playlist Folders
Offline Caching for Desktop and Mobile (iOS)
Last.FM Support Baked-In for Desktop and Mobile

But there are still things I want:

A Web-based listening solution
~~Android support~~(Update: Android is supported. I just wasn’t looking hard enough)
Google+ Integration

I’m sure some of that is coming, but until then I’m pretty content with their offerings. Definitely enough to pony up the $10 entry fee on day.

As a bonus for IHYEB readers we have TWO Spotify Free invites to give away. Leave a comment below about what you think of Spotify and be sure to put your email in the email box when you hit submit. We’ll pick two winners tomorrow (July 15, 2011) at about 5 p.m. CST.

Bon Iver and Adele Both Cover Bonnie Raitt’s “I Can’t Make You Love Me”

Nathan — Thu, 14 Jul 2011 11:40:45 +0000

So 2011 has been a phenomenal year for new music so far and both Adele and Justin Vernon are doing their darndest to help make sure it continues. Each of them have released a brand new full-length that are both likely to end up on my year end “Top 10 List”. And then in the past couple of weeks they each decided to bless us with their own take on the legendary Bonnie Raitt ballad, “I Can’t Make You Love Me.” I have been a fan of this heart-rending song for quite some time and each of these artists have rendered a cover that is both true to the original and to their unique musical stylings. The National, if you could please follow their lead and give us your rendition next, that would be great. Matt Berninger, your deep crooning voice would suit this tune quite well. I’ll be waiting patiently.

Bon Iver – I Can’t Make You Love Me/Nick of Time

Adele – I Can’t Make You Love Me

Happy 175th Birthday Arkansas!

Nathan — Wed, 15 Jun 2011 20:22:28 +0000

The Natural State is celebrating 175 years of statehood today. I have spent most of my life in Arkansas and have become very fond of my home state, and am therefore excited to celebrate that on June 15th, 1836, Arkansas was admitted to the Union as the 25th state. In honor of this occasion I am sharing with you the one and only song that Sufjan Stevens has written for the state of Arkansas. I had once hoped to someday get to dissect and digest an entire album of work inspired by this great state, but that dream seems to be nothing more than wishful thinking anymore. If you are fortunate enough to live in Arkansas right now, go outside today and enjoy some the natural beauty that this great state has to offer. If you have never been to Arkansas and laugh at the idea of it being one of the more beautiful states check out these phenomenal photos that give just a glimpse of some of the wonders you will encounter as you explore the Ozarks or the Buffalo River Valley.

Sufjan Stevens – The Lord God Bird

And as an added bonus I give you the magnificently titled single from singer/songwriter Damien Jurado.

Damien Jurado – Arkansas

New Coldplay – “Every Teardrop is a Waterfall”

Nathan — Mon, 06 Jun 2011 14:01:34 +0000

Every time Coldplay releases something new, I think that I won’t care about it. Some uber fan will inevitable dart into my office and announce their excitement about the new Coldplay single and I will blow them off like they were announcing a new Nickelback single. It’s not that I am pretending, I genuinely think that I don’t care about it, but will somehow find myself listening to said new single later that week. And so far, ever time they have managed to surprise me with yet another single worthy of my listening time. It’s no where near one of the best songs of the year, but once again Coldplay has given us a catchy jam worth listening to, and have proven that everyone is in on bringing the 80′s back in 2011. Enjoy this synth heavy pop gem from one of the radio giants that I can still stand to listen to.

New Song from Beirut – “East Harlem”

Nathan — Mon, 06 Jun 2011 01:26:51 +0000

It’s been way too long since I have posted anything new on here and it’s been way even longer since we have gotten anything new from the incredibly talented Zach Condon. No news yet on a new album coming anytime soon. But they have apparently been performing a few new songs at their live shows and will be selling “East Harlem” on an exclusive 7-inch single that you can order here, which gives me hope that we might yet receive a new full-length from them by the year’s end. Either way this gorgeous and catchy tune should hold you over for quite some time.
Beirut – East Harlem by Revolver USA

My Favorite Daytrotter Sessions of 2011 (so far)

Nathan — Thu, 28 Apr 2011 03:04:41 +0000

I have been a fan of the site Daytrotter for several years now. For those of you who are unfamiliar with Daytrotter, it is a music site that has a little studio they call The Horseshack in downtown Rock Island, IL. They invite bands to stop by in between shows while they are on tour to record a short little session, which is then put up on the site for free download along with a cartoon drawing of the artist and a short essay on the band and their music. Often the sessions are nothing more than spontaneous re-workings of songs on their previous records. But every once and a while an artist will use this opportunity to unveil an unreleased song they’ve been working on or to give us a cover of somebody else’s tune. Either way, they are a fun way to get introduced to a new band or to gain some fresh and unique songs from an old favorite to add to your collection. Over the years they have become pretty popular and are now pumping out several sessions a week. So I decide to take the time to share with you some of my favorite sessions of the year (so far). You can listen to one song from each session that I chose to give you the feel for the artist, and if you like it, I encourage you to head over to Daytrotter so you can listen to and download the full session.

11. Junip – Without You

If you don’t recognize the name Junip, you may be more familiar with their frontman, Jose Gonzalez, as I have mentioned him on here in the past. This is a great session with two songs off of last year’s Fields and one from the Rope and Summit EP.

Listen: Junip’s Daytrotter Session

Purchase: Fields

10. Pete Yorn – Stronger Than

Surprisingly this is Yorn’s first Daytrotter session and it is a great one, with four songs off of last year’s Pete Yorn. He is starting to reach veteran status in the music world, and his songs are really showing it. I really like the maturity in his sound and songwriting. It is showcased reallly well in this session.

Listen: Pete Yorn’s Daytrotter Session

On sale for $5.99: Pete Yorn

9. The Belle Brigade – Sweet Louise

I am falling more and more in love with this group the more I listen to them. I shared with you last week their excellent single, “Losers.” There is a great stripped down version of that song in this session. These guys remind me of Simon and Garfunkel in the best of ways. The whole session is four songs from their self-titled debut.

Listen: The Belle Brigade Daytrotter Session

Purchase: The Belle Brigade

8. Hurricane Bells – The Cold Has Killed Us

These guys came in and played a monster of a session with 8 songs from several different records. This is a great introduction these southern rockers if you are unfamiliar with their catalog.

Listen: Hurricane Bells Daytrotter Session

Purchase: Tonight Is The Ghost (Deluxe Edition)

7. Guster – That’s No Way To Get To Heaven

Here’s another indie mainstay that is just now getting around to recording their first session and it’s a great one with 5 songs from 3 different albums. My three favorites all coming from last year’s Easy Wonderful.

Listen: Guster’s Daytrotter Session

Purchase: Easy Wonderful

6. Frontier Ruckus – The Upper Room

These guys were actually back this year for their second Daytrotter session and I really wish I had taken the time to listen to them last year. I just recently found these guys via one of the last Paste Music Sampler CD’s. His voice is a little off-putting at first, but I have actually grown to love it and now find it very endearing.

Listen: Frontier Ruckus Daytrotter Session

On sale for $5.99: Deadmalls And Nightfalls

5. Rosi Golan – Come Around

I wouldn’t know this girl from Eve if it weren’t for my lovely wife putting her on continuous rotation in our house. I would’ve written her off as just another throwaway female pop singer, but that would’ve been a mistake. This girl can really sing and this session shows off how great she is live. I can’t wait to hear the follow up to her 2008 debut, The Drifter and the Gypsy.

Listen: Rosi Golan’s Daytrotter Session

Purchase: The Drifter and the Gypsy

4. The Low Anthem – Dreams Can Chase You Down

If you haven’t gotten the chance to hear their new album, Smart Flesh, this is a great introduction to it. They play several songs from it, including the excellent “Dreams Can Chase You Down” which until now could only be heard on the deluxe edition of the album.

Listen: The Low Anthem’s Daytrotter Session

Purchase: Smart Flesh [+Digital Booklet]

3. Rooney – Holdin’ On

I bought these California rockers’ debut album about 8 years ago now based solely on the cover. Boy was that a great decision. Well fortunately for you, you don’t have to buy their new one based on the cover, you can just listen to their recent Daytrotter session and decide with your ears rather than your eyes.

Listen: Rooney’s Daytrotter Session

Purchase: Eureka

2. Best Coast – In My Room

These surf rockers actually recorded this session about a year and a half ago, before their debut album, Crazy For You, was even released. And for one reason or another it is just now being released for our listening pleasure. It is another large collection of songs, none of which ended up on Crazy For You, which makes this session even more fun.

Listen: Best Coast’s Daytrotter Session

On sale for $3.99: Crazy For You

1. Sarah Jaffe – Clementine

I have already posted one song from this session as my second favorite song of the year (so far) and I’m wondering if I sold it short. I can’t say enough about how much I love this girl. The control she has over her voice is absolutely incredible. Her live show was completely enthralling. I can’t stop listening to Suburban Nature and am dying for her to give us something new. This session has definitely helped tide me over til that day.

Listen: Sarah Jaffe’s Daytrotter Session

Purchase: Suburban Nature

New Album from The Antlers “Burst Apart”

Nathan — Tue, 26 Apr 2011 11:10:39 +0000

A lot of people were high on Hospice, the 2009 debut album from The Antlers. Well I am even higher on Burst Apart, the soon to be released sophomore effort from The Antlers. The album will officially be released on May 10th. Lucky for you though, you don’t have to take my opinion on the album, nor do you have to wait til May 10th to hear it. NPR is streaming it now for free via their First Listen series. Shortly after the album hits stores they will be heading off on a month-long U.S. tour. Check out the dates below.

The Antlers – Parentheses by Frenchkiss

05-17 Washington, DC – Black Cat *
05-18 Philadelphia, PA – First Unitarian Church Sanctuary *
05-19 Brooklyn, NY – Music Hall of Williamsburg * – 3/31
05-20 New York, NY – Bowery Ballroom * – 3/31
05-28 George, WA – Sasquatch Festival
05-31 San Francisco, CA – Great American Music Hall *
06-03 Los Angeles, CA – El Rey * – 4/1
06-04 Pomona, CA – Glass House *
06-07 Austin, TX – Emo’s * – 4/1
06-08 Dallas, TX – The Loft *
06-09 Tulsa, OK – The Marquee *
06-10 St. Louis, MO – Firebird *
06-11 Chicago, IL – Metro *
06-12 Detroit, MI – Magic Stick * – 3/31
06-14 Toronto, Ontario – Mod Club * – 3/31
06-15 Montreal, Quebec – La Tulipe ^
06-16 Boston, MA – Paradise * – 4/1
06-17 Hamden, CT – The Space *

* with Little Scream
^ with the Dodos

Pre-order the album here: Burst Apart (Amazon MP3 Exclusive Version) [Explicit]

Catching Up with Ryan Adams

Nathan — Sat, 23 Apr 2011 20:00:04 +0000

The last time I shared anything about Ryan Adams on here was a little over two years ago when he had announced his supposed “retirement” from music. Well since then, he’s released a Valentine’s Day EP with an unreleased track on it, a full-length double LP crafted from 2007′s Easy Tiger sessions, III/IV, and most recently the Class Mythology EP, a Records Store Day release of outtakes from the Cardinology sessions. Oh and I forgot to mention that he plans to tour Europe the entire month of June. That doesn’t really sound to me like the musings of someone who has retired from the music business. That is because he is far from retired.

Ryan Adams – Your Name is On Fire (Vinyl Rip) (from Class Mythology EP) thanks Tympanogram

He recently announced that he will be heading back into the studio soon to record a new album, and thanks to a surprise appearance at a recent Emmy Lou Harris show at El Rey Theater in L.A., we have a few new songs to hear.

“Dirty Rain”

Untitled New Song #1

Untitled New Song #2

The Best Songs of 2011 (So Far) – Part 4

Nathan — Sun, 17 Apr 2011 12:00:12 +0000

So it’s time to bring you the final installment and my absolute favorite songs of the year so far. I hope you guys have enjoyed listening to this list as much as I enjoyed putting together. Again I want to remind you that if you enjoy these songs, please go and purchase some of these albums.

5. The Decemberists – Down By The Water

It’s no sea shanty or civil war folk-lore, but this R.E.M. influenced rock tune is pretty incredible. I just can’t get enough of this entire album. While most everyone seems to be going back to the 80′s for inspiration this year, these guys seem to have found the early 90′s early enough for them, and it really works.

4. The Head and the Heart – Lost In My Mind

Great harmonies, great lyrics, great melody, and with a fantastic continuous build and crescendo. This song is just darn-near perfect.

3. The Civil Wars – I’ve Got This Friend

This entire album is absolutely phenomenal, but I keep going back to this particular song over and over. If you just sample this song, you won’t get it. Just trust me. Download this song, let it get under your skin. Then go and buy the rest of the album.

2. Sarah Jaffe – A Sucker for Your Marketing/Vulnerable

This is a bit of an unorthadox choice for this list, especially to be this high, but I just couldn’t ignore it. I usually don’t take the time to listen to very many live recordings, but this is just an absolute masterpiece. The range and control she has over her voice is unbelievable and is showcased really well in this recording, not to mention the flawless and beautiful transition between the two songs. This whole session is worth checking out.

1. Adele – Rolling In The Deep

This girl’s on fire and there ain’t nothing able to put her out. Another album that could have had any number of songs on this list. As much of an affection I have for other songs on this album such as “Someone Like You” or “One and Only”, it had to be this song. It is just so unbelievably catchy but has so much depth and character at the same time. This is an absolutely epic song that will last for decades. It is the perfect opening track that sets the tone for one of the best records of the year. A testament to the strength and power of this song is the numerous amount of covers that have already popped up from the unknowns to the legends, John Legend that is (more to come on that matter in future posts).

So there it is. My personal favorites of the year. I am sure that I have missed some great ones. So please comment and let me know of the egregious errors in musical judgment that I have made. What song do you think deserves that #1 spot?

Part 3 (#’s15 – 6)

The Best Songs of 2011 (So Far) – Part 3

Nathan — Fri, 15 Apr 2011 12:50:41 +0000

The countdown continues here with songs 15 – 6. Hope you are enjoying this list as much as I enjoyed putting it together. I am amazed at the plethora of music worth listening to that has come out in the past few months. The rest of the list will come this weekend.

15. Iron & Wine – Walking Far From Home

This is definitely the most listened to song of the year so far, partly because I got it back in December. I think I wore it out, or it might be higher on this list.

14. Fleet Foxes – Helplessness Blues

One of the best songs yet from a band that is aiming to establish itself as an indie-folk mainstay with the release of their sophomore record of the same name.

13. Seryn – We Will All Be Changed

A slow-building and uplifting song for the season from yet another band from Denton, TX worth your attention.

12. Tennis – Marathon

I avoided listening to these guys based on the name and album cover. That was a mistake.

11. Voxhaul Broadcast – Rotten Apples

With some Dr. Dog-like vocals this song just makes me wanna tap my feet.

10. Lupe Fiasco – The Show Goes On

The clever and insightful lyrics of Lupe matched up with a killer Modest Mouse sample is the perfect recipe for my favorite hip-hop song of the year thus far.

09. Destroyer – Suicide Demo For Kara Walker

My wife referred to this album as elevator music, but I just can’t get enough of it. I especially love the little guitar riff that comes in and out of the background of this track. It complements the Kenny G-like sax quite well. You can join my wife and mock it if you like. But that is an elevator I would love to stay on.

08. James Vincent McMorrow – If I Had A Boat

This is the standout track from what has been my Bon Iver substitute as I wait for the next full-length from Justin Vernon.

07. Other Lives – For 12

The instrumentation on this song and the rest of this album is just phenomenal. I had the hardest time choosing a song off of this album to include on this list. Any of a number of songs could be taking this spot. I can’t wait to see these guys open for The National next week at Cain’s Ballroom.

06. Rubik – Laws of Gravity
Rubik: Laws Of Gravity by Fullsteam

Absolutely can’t get enough of this song right now. Try to listen to this song and not get up and dance. I dare you.

Listen to #’s 25-16

The Best Songs of 2011 (So Far) – Part 2

Nathan — Tue, 12 Apr 2011 12:47:30 +0000

Yesterday I gave you the first 10 songs in my list of favorite songs of this year. I know the just over 3 months have passed, but a lot of great music has come out already. So here is the next 10 songs in my list. Hope you enjoy them as much as I do.

25. The Jayhawks – Settled Down Like Rain

These guys may have actually pulled off the impossible and made a great reunion record (one that might be their best yet).

24. Bobby Long – Who Have You Been Loving?

One of the catchiest choruses of the year from a British newcomer.

23. Lykke Li – Love Out of Lust
Lykke Li – Love Out Of Lust by LykkeLi

I’ve had the melody of this chorus stuck in my head for days.

22. Cut Copy – Take Me Over

This track is straight out the 80′s, and I mean that in the best of ways.

21. Generationals – Greenleaf

This song did a better job than the weather did at letting me know that Spring had finally arrived.

20. Over the Rhine – The King Knows How

After 20 years these indie rockers just keep getting better and better. This song just transforms me to another time and place.

19. The Belle Brigade – Losers

Reminds me of Fleetwood Mac in a good way. Losers, you no longer need Good Charlotte to represent you.

18. Foster the People – Pumped Up Kicks

This year’s hipster anthem. It’ll get you whistling in no time. This year’s “Young Folks.”

17. Bright Eyes – Shell Games

I can’t get enough of this 80′s influenced rock anthem. I love the way Oberst continues to evolve.

16. Beady Eye – The Roller

I’m still not convinced they didn’t steal this song from The Beatles’ archive. John and Paul would be proud.

Listen to #’s 35-26

The Best Songs of 2011 (So Far) – Part 1

Nathan — Sun, 10 Apr 2011 23:24:42 +0000

So I kinda disappeared for a week or so, but I am back with a monster post. I love lists so much, and am constantly working on them. I rarely share them, because by the time I finish them, they are usually pretty outdated. Well I have resolved to making time to finish them in a timely manner. So I am bringing you my favorite songs of the first quarter of 2011.

I started out aiming to give you my top 25 songs thus far, but it has been such a fantastic year for music thus far that I couldn’t limit it to just 25. This list is only about the songs and says nothing about my opinion of the rest of their album. Also I chose to include only one song from any particular artist, so as to share the love.

35. Jamaica – Jericho

34. Noah and the Whale – L.I.F.E.G.O.E.S.O.N.

33. Jason Isbell & the 400 Unit – Codeine

32. Smith Westerns – All Die Young

31. Middle Brother – Me, Me, Me

30. Cold War Kids – Skip the Charades
Cold War Kids – Skip The Charades by Interscope Records

29. White Lies – Bigger Than Us

28. Wye Oak – Civilian

27. Empress Hotel – Bells Ring

26. Those Darlins – Be Your Bro

Be looking for the rest of the list later on in the week. As always, I hope your ears bleed.

Kina Grannis Covers Fleet Foxes

Nathan — Wed, 30 Mar 2011 11:32:16 +0000

Not a fan of the way she does the intro, but I really like her inflection on the chorus. I think her voice almost sounds better as she hits some of the high notes leading up to the chorus. Not as powerful or moving as the original, but it is worth a listen. Remember: Don’t judge a song by it’s cover.

Kina Grannis – White Winter Hymnal (Fleet Foxes)

Absolutely Insane Pixies Beatbox Cover!

Cody — Tue, 29 Mar 2011 15:00:24 +0000

If you only watch one beatbox Pixies cover today, make sure it’s this one. Youtube user Pyrantula shows off the talents of British beatboxer THePETEBOX. With six strings, a loop pedal and a microphone he unleashes a version of the Pixie’s “Where is my Mind” that is pretty sock-knocking off worthy.

Petebox’s cover of MGMT’s “Kids” from the Y-Not Festival last August is also worth a listen. If you didn’t pick it up by now, this guy is very talented.

You can download the “PeTeBOXed” version of “Where is My Mind” over on THePETEBOX’s website:
http://www.thepetebox.com/pixiesdownload.htm

I hope your ears can handle this. Ω

Seven Swans Reimagined

Nathan — Sun, 27 Mar 2011 11:53:45 +0000

Seven Swans, the legendary album from Sufjan Stevens is being “reimagined” by a collection of indie artists for charity. All profits from the album will go to benefit the Susan G. Komen For The Cure breast cancer foundation. The project was organized and put together by an independent compilation company, On Joyful Wings. They got 15 different and unique artists, ranging from Bonnie ‘Prince’ Billy to Joshua James to The David Crowder Band, to deliver their own re-working of one of the Swans songs. I think the song I am most looking forward to hearing is Derek Webb’s interpretation of “In the Devil’s Territory.” The album will be released next Tuesday, the 29th. You can pre-order it here.

The Gregory Brothers – The Dress Looks Nice You

This Week’s Music News

Nathan — Sat, 26 Mar 2011 11:52:47 +0000

I recently introduced you to one of my new favorite indie-folk acts The Head and the Heart. This past week, I Am Fuel, You Are Friends had them in to record the first of their new Chapel Sessions series.

The Head and the Heart – Chasing A Ghost (Chapel Session)

Bon Iver is set to release a new album in June.

Two Door Cinema Club drops in for a Daytrotter session.

Two Door Cinema Club – Something Good Can Work (The Twelves Remix)

Right now, the new Peter, Bjorn, and John album, Gimme Some, is streaming on NPR.

Paste went to SXSW and shared with us the 12 best films they saw while they were there. Other than Win Win, which I referenced last week , Hesher has to be the film I am most interested in seeing.

Ellie Goulding Covers The Knife/Jose Gonzalez

Nathan — Wed, 23 Mar 2011 10:29:05 +0000

British indie darling, Ellie Goulding recently recorded another cover at BBC Radio 1. Previously she gave us her unique interpretation of Rihanna’s “Only Girl”. This time she is covering the the uber catchy dance-pop single, “Heartbeats”, from The Knife’s 2003 effort, Deep Cuts. Although to be more accurate it sounds like she is actually covering José González’s intimate cover that he recorded and released on his 2005 album, Veneer.

While it shares more in common with the Gonzalez version, being acoustic in nature, she still makes it her own, by speeding it up a little and giving it some cheerier vocals that contrast with Gonzalez’ very somber take on the track. Take a listen to these beautiful tracks below. And as always, don’t judge a song by it’s cover.

José González – Heartbeats

The Tallest Man On Earth’s ‘Tiny Desk Concert’

Nathan — Mon, 21 Mar 2011 14:11:06 +0000

As I am sure most of you have heard by now, the House recently passed a bill to cut NPR’s government funding. I’m not completely sure what this will mean for the future of NPR. Will a lot of programs be cut? Will they start using advertisements to fund the network? Will we need to start paying/donating to continue to enjoy our favorite programs? One thing I do know is that I will be really bummed if it means the end of such excellent programming as Car Talk, Wait Wait…Don’t Tell Me, or All Songs Considered, which brought us this wonderful performance from The Tallest Man On Earth. I seriously cannot get enough of this guy. If you still haven’t purchased his entire collection I don’t know what you are waiting for. Enjoy this incredible acoustic performance.

Some Great Fan-Made Videos

Nathan — Sun, 20 Mar 2011 13:46:07 +0000

On Friday Paste Magazine posted 12 Fantastic Fan-Made Videos and I thought I would share with you all some of my favorites from that bunch.

Snow Patrol – “Make This Go On Forever”

The Arcade Fire – “The Suburbs”

Sleigh Bells – “Treats”

Frightened Rabbit – “I Feel Better”

The Head and the Heart

Nathan — Sat, 19 Mar 2011 14:16:38 +0000

There is yet another band to pay attention to in the beloved folk-rock genre. To me they sound like a great mixture of David Gray and Mumford & Sons. I’ve only heard a few tracks but it has been enough to grab my attention. Last year they self-produced and self-released their self-titled debut album. Well it got a lot of critical praise and garnered a lot of attention, including from indie label Sub Pop Records, who will be giving The Head and the Heart a proper release on April 26th. Take a listen to a couple of tracks off the album and watch the very inviting and warm video for “Lost in My Mind.”

The Head and the Heart – Down in the Valley

The Head and the Heart – Rivers and Roads

The Original SMiLE Sessions Finally Getting Released

Nathan — Fri, 18 Mar 2011 11:39:32 +0000

Back in 1966 The Beach Boys released what many people, myself included, consider to be the greatest album of all time, Pet Sounds. By the end of that summer they were already back in the studio working on what was supposed to be an even better follow-up. The band was really excited about what was supposed to turn into the album SMiLE. The late Dennis Wilson was heard saying, “In my opinion [The SMiLE Sessions] makes Pet Sounds stink — that’s how good it is.” But due to various business and legal complications, SMiLE, never saw the light of day. At least not the original recordings.

A few years back, Brian Wilson went back into the studio and took a bunch of those original songs and recorded a new album that he released as SMiLE. Which was great, but now we are going to get the chance to hear the songs as they were recorded in those original sessions. Original band members, Al Jardine, Mike Love, and Brian Wilson have gotten together with Capitol/EMI to compile a collection of songs that will be released later this year as The Smile Sessions. The collection will be released in both physical and digital formats, including a deluxe boxed set that will include “early song drafts, alternate takes, instrumental and vocals-only mixes, and studio chatter.” This is making my impossible dream of a new Beach Boys album a reality. Hope you guys are at least half as excited as I am.

Thanks to Paste and Blurt for sharing this wonderful news.

The Beach Boys – Heroes & Villians

The National Write a New Song for ‘Win Win’

Nathan — Thu, 17 Mar 2011 12:55:57 +0000

Actor/Director Thomas McCarthy (The Visitor) has a new film coming out this weekend starring Paul Giamatti and Amy Ryan ( from The Wire & The Office) about a disheartened attorney who is moonlighting as a high school wrestling coach. It looks like it will be a pretty interesting film, but that isn’t why I am interested in it today. Like most Sundance films, the soundtrack seems to be filled with great indie music including a new song from The National written just for the movie. The new song is everything we have come to expect from them. “Think You Can Wait” would easily fit right in with everything on High Violet. It’s a hauntingly beautiful sound with a fantastic arrangement that has the gorgeous Sharon Van Etten on background vocals. Take a listen below.

The National – Think You Can Wait

And if you are in the Tulsa area you should come and join us at Cain’s Ballroom on April 19th, cause for some reason there are still tickets available. If I were you I would snatch them fast, because there is a good chance this is the one time they come and play in Oklahoma.

Teen Daze Covers Japandroids

Nathan — Wed, 16 Mar 2011 11:59:20 +0000

I don’t know who Teen Daze is, but their cover of Japandroids’ uber catchy “Wet Hair” has given me reason to pay attention to them. They took an already great rock song and made it danceable without losing the integrity of the song. Needless to say I am a big fan of this weeks cover.

Teen Daze – Wet Hair (Japandroids cover)

Death Cab for Cutie Release Covert Art and Tracklist for Codes and Keys

Nathan — Tue, 15 Mar 2011 11:22:42 +0000

Death Cab for Cutie are set to release their 7th studio album on May 31 via Atlantic Records. According to guitarist Chris Walla, the band will be departing from their typical guitar strumming and will be using a lot more reverb and synths. While I think it still pales in comparison to their masterpiece, Transatlantacism, I still really enjoyed Narrow Stairs. But I got bored with that sound from them soon after hearing The Open Book EP. So I am glad to hear that they will be changing things up again and continuing to evolve as a band, and am real excited to hear Codes and Keys. Then again, I get excited pretty much any time Benjamin Gibbard is writing songs. I will probably buy this album, regardless of the amount of praise/criticism it receives, just to hear some new words from Gibbard. I have posted the newly released tracklist below and to go along with it are a few live cuts for your listening pleasure.

1. Home Is A Fire
2. Codes And Keys
3. Some Boys
4. Doors Unlocked And Open
5. You Are A Tourist
6. Unobstructed Views
7. Monday Morning
8. Portable Television
9. Underneath The Sycamore
10. St Peter’s Cathedral
11. Stay Young, Go Dancing

Codes And Keys (Gibbard Solo, Live in SF) by TwentyFourBit.com

When The Sun Goes Down On Your Street (Gibbard Solo, Live in SF) by TwentyFourBit.com

Sondre Lerche Covers Owen Pallett

Nathan — Wed, 09 Mar 2011 12:04:11 +0000

I’ve always been a huge fan of cover songs. I love hearing an artist take a unique approach to someone else’s song and completely make it their own. I especially love it when the cover crosses genre’s. I have been collecting covers for quite some time now and I am going to slowly start sharing them with you. Starting today you can count on getting a cover song from me every Wednesday.

To start us off I bring you a great track from Norwegian singer-songwriter Sondre Lerche. This cover is the first thing I have heard from him since his fantastic soundtrack to the hilarious Dan in Real Life. The song is called “Lewis Takes Off His Shirt” and it is my favorite song from Owen Pallett’s indie-rock musical, Heartland. Like all of Pallett’s work, Heartland is quite the orchestral feat. There is quite a bit going on in the original, which is why I enjoy Lerche’s stripped down version all the more. Take a listen below.

Sondre Lerche – Lewis Takes His Shirt Off (Owen Pallett)

Remember, don’t judge a song by it’s cover.

Donald Miller – A Hundred Million Miles

Nathan — Mon, 07 Mar 2011 19:51:03 +0000

I don’t often take the time to plug books on here, but I am a huge fan of this guy and think that his most recent effort was fascinating and one of the best books I have read in a while.

The paperback edition of this great memoir comes out today. Get it here.

What story are you telling? from Rhetorik Creative on Vimeo.

Macklemore & Ryan Lewis “Otherside” Remix feat. Fences

Nathan — Tue, 22 Feb 2011 11:51:51 +0000

If you follow IHYEB on a regular basis, you probably aren’t looking to us for the newest hip-hop breakout artist. Not that we don’t appreciate the genre, cause I have definitely found a lot worth listening to last year, from the young guys like Drake to Cudi to the veteran mainstays like Jay-Z and Eminem. But I am usually the last to the party when it comes to rap music. But the other day I feel like I stumbled onto some hip-hop gold.

It’s a remix of a track from a fairly new artist called Macklemore. The track I discovered and fell in love with features fellow Seattle musician Fences in a Remix of Otherside by Ryan Lewis. It’s a really honest and powerful plea to both fellow rappers and young impressionable listeners to get real and recognize that a life lived for getting high and using others isn’t fulfilling. It’s a really powerful message that doesn’t come off cheesy. He’s got a way with words and he is able to pull of a positive uplifting message without losing his credibility and coming off as soft. I’m a big fan. The original does a great job of sampling the Red Hot Chili Peppers’ song of the same name.

I’m not sure which version I like better.

Macklemore & Ryan Lewis – Otherside

Macklemore – Otherside feat. Fences [Ryan Lewis Remix]