The Instruments

Browsing about in the collection of music I saw this band and decided that it was far too long overdue to post their discography. This group is interconnected intimately with the Elephant 6 collective. A regular reader might see a pattern and realize I am a big fan of E6. Cellist Heather McIntosh, who played with Elf Power, Circulatory System, and Japancakes, founded the Instruments. The rest of the roster is mostly made up of E6 founders and veterans like Peter Erchick, Will Cullen Hart, John Fernandes, Hannah Jones, and Derek Almstead. If their names aren't ringing a bell a simple wikipedia search will tell you the projects they've been involved in. However, beyond possessing the necessary talent, the style of the band is a bit different from the pop sound of many E6 groups. The Instruments falls into the much smaller faction that embraces Eastern European folk traditions with A Hawk And A Hacksaw. This influence is more pronounced in the first album, Billions of Phonographs, newer release. This is not to say it evaporated in the succeeding albums, but they focus more of lyrics. All three of the releases memorized me in turn, so I can't tell you which is better than the other, and perhaps starting at the beginning is best. If you were a fan of previous E6 projects I posted or if you like European folk infused acts like Beirut, A Hawk And A Hacksaw, and Black Ox Orkestar then you shall likely appreciate this.

Have a wonderful new year spacerockmountain pilgrims.

To be had here:




Billions of Phonographs [128 kbps] (2002)












Cast A Half Shadow [192 kbps] (2006)










Dark Småland [192 VBR kbps] (2008)

Best Coast - Where The Boys Are (2009)

Best Coast is a solo effort of a former member of the psychedelic drone band Pocahaunted. This release is only an EP containing five short songs, clocking in at a mere fourteen minutes. Just enough to get yourself excited about it. The tracks are something like a lo-fi, garage-recorded version of beach-side rock and roll anthems. The most interesting aspect I find is that there are not percussion instruments to be heard upon any of the tracks, as she relies on her manipulated vocals and guitar playing. An excellent EP for those short breaks on menial jobs like I unfortunately have currently.

To be had here:
Best Coast - Where The Boys Are [224 VBR kbps]

P.S. I'd like to recommend that to readers looking for some more good music to check out the blog entitled: √-1. It has some most excellent experimental albums to be found and has a fantastic "You might also like" feature that directs you towards older posts you might not think to search out on your own.

Sin Fang Bous - Clangour (2008)

Sin Fang Bous is another group from Iceland, just more reason for me to get there someday. They came originally to be view because of my enjoyment of Benni Hemm Hemm, and my following of recommendations given to me (I have forgotten from whom, my bad). Whilst similarity betwixt the Icelandic artists exist, there are not the native language folk songs that Benni Hemm Hemm excels at on Clangour. Notwithstanding, there are some strikingly elegant tracks upon this album and recurring listens have only served to reinforce this notion. Sin Fang Bous is the name adopted for the solo work of Sindri Már Sigfússon, who is the head of Seabear, also a notable band. Plus one must admit that both his stage and real names are amazing. To my untrained ear I hear a likeness to Le Loup on several songs. Overall a highly agreeable release.

To be had here:
Sin Fang Bous - Clangour [256 VBR kbps]

Matrix Metals - Flamingo Breeze (2009)

I suppose this is an EP, comprised of three songs. Two of them are longer ones, as you may know I fancy. The theme Matrix Metals is going for is something between retro mash-up and psychedelic gamewave dance music. It has perhaps the strangest tag on last.fm I've ever seen, "80s hawaiian pi vhs flickering through sega genesis circuits." Nonetheless, it seems rather more accurate than anything my feebleminded self can conjure up. The most fundamental concept I feel transferred through Flamingo Breeze is radical excitement. Excitement for how funny the past was, that today can be, and how amazing sounds are. And yes, the shape of the album art is oblong because it is meant for a cassette tape.

To be had here:
Matrix Metals - Flamingo Breeze [192 VBR kbps]

Shogun Kunitoki - Vinonaamakasio (2009)

These Finns really made something fantastic back in 2006 with their debut album, Tasankokaiku. I feel somewhat obligated to share this as well. This is there follow-up, and as that was a hard act to come after it isn't as amazing to me. Overall, the style is very similar except that the gamewave elements of first album have diminished greatly. The entirety is organized heavily around percussion and synthesizers. Same as the last release, this is a completely instrumental album and it has some really foreign track titles that are really fun to try to say. While Vinonaamakasio could be better it is by no means a bad album. It can be thoroughly enjoyed if this sort of electronic music is something you seek out. I'll probably listen to is a few more times and see what comes of it.

To be had here:
Shogun Kunitoki - Vinonaamakasio [320 kbps]

Meth Teeth - Everything Went Wrong (2009)

Hailing from the music producing machine that is Portland, Oregon, Meth Teeth seem like a fine example of how noise-riddled, garage-like, rock and roll should sound. They remind me of my early love, Detroit garage bands in a fashion, sounding like the Gories at moments, but there is a different feel. The base it is built up from seems more folksy than bluesy if you get my drift. Vocals are just as fucking incapable of being understood. Personally, this sort of music is very upbeat to me and brings with it a pleasant after effect that I crave. Fuzzed out guitars and distortion are something my ears will never have too much to hear.

To be had here:
Meth Teeth - Everything Went Wrong [256 VBR kbps]

C-3PO with R2-D2 - Christmas in the Stars: Star Wars Christmas Album (1980)

Sometimes one forgets what Christmas is all about, commercialization. Befitting the goal of such a holiday season one of the masters of merchandising, George Lucas, did everything possible to cash in on his blockbuster success. Hell yes this included making an intensely trite and heinous Christmas album featuring Ben Brutt and Anthony Daniels from Star Wars turn a buck. Mostly very poorly written and sung but seasonally appropriate songs alluding to vague lines or concepts from the movie. C-3PO rambles on about some "S. Claus" and robot toy makers, really bizarre. I am sharing this as one of the few holiday themed albums I own. The reason for my ownership of this album is of course the novelty and when I was younger I was a huge Star Wars nerds. Co-opting the Christmas spirit to reference droids and galaxy-wide toy distribution might seems irrational and unnecessary, which it certainly is, yet it is something you can tell your friends about. This is why Easter is cooler, with pagan rituals, a zombie Jew, lamb meat, and no themed soundtrack. At least be thankful you didn't pay for it... may the force be with you.

To be had here:
C-3PO with R2-D2 - Christmas in the Stars: Star Wars Christmas Album [256 kbps]

City Center - City Center (2009)

Bumping around on the information superhighway I ran across a reference to this album. So as I find myself doing often I looked it up. Imagine how surprised I was to find the famous Michigander, Fred Thomas, is a member of this duo. Yes, the same Fred Thomas of Saturdays Looks Good to Me, Lovesick, and Flashpapr renown. Of course, just as those projects were of different styles so to is City Center. He's paired with is buddy from SLGTM, Ryan Howard, who also made music in a band called Canada. I was a bit saddened to see they're basing this latest endeavor out of New York City, but that's mostly jealously that I haven't gotten out of Detroit yet. The music is excellent though; makes up for any minor geographic disappointment. Basically, if you listened to anything Fred Thomas as done, then imagine if he was going for electronic and experimental instead of whatever. It is more than just a novelty and I've already given it a few listens in the last week. Merry Christmas Eve if you're into that sort of thing.

To be had here:
City Center - City Center [256 VBR kbps]

The Sound of Wonder! (2009)

This is a crazy compilation that I actually heard recommended on my favorite international news show, The World from Public Radio International, et al. The fella who's name I forgot said it was something unique. Boy howdy he was correct, it blew my fucking brains out as I wasted hours playing click-and-point RPGs to celebrate by break from college courses. After a short time I was playing them just to have an occupation for my hands and eyes while my ears were pleasured. As to what exactly is on this compilation of humdingers, if my memory serves me the fella on the radio said it was 1970s Pakistani songs from the often overlooked film industry of Lahore. If that doesn't sell you on wanting to hear some I'm not really sure why you read my blog at all. Naturally, Pakistan did not exist in a void in the 70s, so there are features one familiar with the eras music may likely recognize like fuzz guitar. The majority of the lyrics are sung in language known to Pakistan, I hesitate to state which for sure for I am not capable of differentiating South Asian tongues. The point is that they transport you to another time and place. Being it predictable that you're as unfamiliar as I am to the culture around them they won't explain much but they'll hopefully send your mind of some delightful imaginations. Oh, and if you do like this sort of thing, weird compilations I mean, the label that released this has more cool shit, them being Finders Keepers Records.

To be had here:
The Sound of Wonder! [160 VBR kbps]

Ólafur Arnalds

In my imagination Iceland is some strange combination of futuristic and old worldly qualities that breeds an amazing culture, current economic disaster aside. If I'm wrong don't tell me for I haven't a need for more places that aren't cool. I'm looking at you, Ohio. The speculation on Iceland is not irreverent though, as the artist I'm sharing today is a son of the island nation. Ólafur Arnalds makes some of the most beautiful of Iceland's famed ethereal sounds. A natural comparison is Sigur Rós, who has grown on me in recent times. Nevertheless, I do enjoy Mr. Arnalds far more and his latest release, Dyad 1909, is simply extraordinary. He's got your chamber stings, your creepy robotic voices, your strange song titles, and some soothingly calm piano blended with chaotic electronic racket. The man is a mad wizard, and I think my class is only bolstered by how much Icelandic looks like spell-casting to an asshole like me.

To be had here:




Eulogy for Evolution (2006) [192 kbps]











Variations Of Static (2007) [320 kbps]












Found Songs (2009) [192 kbps]











Dyad 1909 (2009) [320 kbps]

Little Girls - Concepts (2009)

This like the last post is most likely one of the better albums of 2009. I had found this band through the internet before I could even find the album on p2p and having to wait only made me cherish it all the more. Right along the lines of psychedelic noise I have been tooting off about as of late, Concepts is a most righteous addition to the latest posts. They seem to fancy themselves a post-punk group and to a degree I can see this, but I always think of Josef K and Gang of Four when I think post-punk. Needless to say, some of it reminiscent of those fine days in Britain yet is is far noisier than anything they were undertaking. I'll admit a certain amount of jealously for my friends that are in Toronto and get to claim them as their own. Luckily, being in Detroit means Toronto is among my cheapest and most accessable vacation destination. I'd drive four hours to listen to them, and I pass up some decent shit right here out of my laziness.

To be had here:
Little Girls - Concepts [224 VBR kbps]

Ganglians - Woodsist (2009)

Woodsits is undoubtedly one of my favorite releases of the year. It is really everything I was looking for in an album right now. Encompassing slow, psychedelic, sparely instrumented tracks as well as garage-noise-drone ones it switches between exciting and memorizing in equal capacity throughout the all to brief album. If this sounds like high praise that is because it is. I really liked this shit. I mean fuck damn. These fellas have something that too many bands overlook or fail to do well, utilize a variety of instruments and styles in a seamless fashion. I'm gonna keep the post short for I am planning to write a few and there's no need to make myself tiresome yet. Be sure to get this one, even if I do tend towards lavishing admiration (it is a blog of music I like after all).

To be had here:
Ganglians - Woodsist [224 VBR kbps]

Candy Claws - In the Dream of the Sea Life (2008)

Another release I had to shamble about on the p2p for. Correspondingly, I discovered them to in the same fashion of kicking around on the internet for similar artists to those I've been recently enjoying. Immediately on the first listen I was liking what I heard. The instant gratifaction of the album is due to it not being a drone album, which is a genre best reheard and heard again to digest in my opinion, but having a more shoegaze-style infusion of more slightly more understandable vocals. Overall, there is more of a pop feel, but it is really well done. Very much experimental rock yet I can't think of a good comparison due to my mind's rotting away as I continue my higher education, at least insomuch that I can't remember all my nerdy music, Star Wars, and Marvel Comics knowledge. Just hit up last.fm for similar artists this time I suppose, I am no fountainhead.

To be had here:
Candy Claws - In the Dream of the Sea Life

Topaz Rags - Capricorn Born Again (2009)

Topaz Rags is something that I swiped through a p2p program. I got it for I saw the name come up as something similar to Peaking Lights, which if you've read that post you know has been one of my favorites as of late. The comparison is apt for the style of the two groups is likewise. Not as good as Peaking Lights, but I fear few things could be in my mind. The vocals are what really set Capricorn Born Again off. They're eerie and achieve a fantastic feeling of dreary and unreal imagery accompanies it as I listen. If you like things like Peaking Lights, Super Minerals, and Robedoor then I suggest grabbing it.

To be had here:
Topaz Rags - Capricorn Born Again [320 kbps]

Duster - Contemporary Movement (2000)

I don't have too much energy to explain a bunch of jazz about this album. I'm sure I found this on a blog on some corner of the internet, placed it somewhere, forgot I had it, found it, listened and loved it. Nevertheless, beyond my scatterbrained thought process, Contemporary Movement is a fantastic, if not brand new, album. Musically it is an admirable combination of noise pop and electronic ambient sounds to make something that possesses relaxing qualities (at least for me) while not putting me to sleep. Feels like the name of this blog come to life to a degree, insomuch that it is very spacey. Despite it's what I initially thought upon starting the first track, there are vocals, good ones at that. This wasn't this first album, but the only one I've gotten time to listen to. There's info aplenty about Duster on the intertubing if you need to know more.

To be had here:
Duster - Contemporary Movement [256 kbps]

John Fahey - The Voice of the Turtle (1968)

John Fahey was a pioneer in the solo use of the steel-stringed guitar. He is a legend in modern folk music, although he denied that is what he played, citing his suburban roots. I'm not gonna get into too many details about Fahey's style and work, as I am not a musician nor an enthomusicologist. It must suffice to say that I find his albums enthralling examples of folk and blues that he was not shy about experimenting with. The Voice of the Turtle has some of my favorite songs that he played like "Lewisdale Blues" and "Je ne me suis reveillais matin pas en May." There is a bit of all sorts of instruments on this album, and some singing that is damned close to yodeling in its long drawls. Somethings the songs are slow and distorted to the point that they remind me of beginning to drone tracks only to shift smoothly into acoustic guitar playing and back again. Fahey was surely a wonder-maker.

To be had here:
John Fahey - The Voice of the Turtle [192 VBR kbps]

Le Loup - Family (2009)

I had high praise for this group's first album, which I still feel is a fantastic release. However, I feel even more enamored with this album, it just blows my fucking mind. I had a certain timidness towards listening to it at first as I enjoyed the first album so much I as fearful of disillusionment with the new songs, and I was holding out hope that somebody would tell me it had more crazy sweet guitar parts like the first. The guitar parts are not really there, but I couldn't care less to be honest. Once I finally got over my fears and plunged into giving it a whirl, it turned into about 15 whirls I loved it so much. I could not pin down a word for it on my own, but the music gave me a strange feeling like I was hearing it on a tropical island or forest. On last.fm the description is a mixture of tribal and experimental rock, and I guess that works, but it isn't like world music if you follow me. The singing is amazing, just like the last album, but the overall composition of the songs are far superior I believe. Additionally, they cut out the electronic aspects found in a few tracks of the first release. This is a improvement for the style they capture in Family. If you're the type that doesn't want to search the tracks for your favorite song (why are you bothering with life by the way?), the favorites are "Grow," "Sherpa" and "Family."

To be had here:
Le Loup - Family [192 VBR kbps]

Peaking Lights - Imaginary Falcons (2009)

Recently Detroit has wronged me. Some of the city's more nefarious characters roughed up my deplorable automobile. As you might be able to surmise, I was a bit taken aback and dispirited from the circumstance. Seeking solace in music, I have developed a minor obsession with Peaking Light's spectacular album, Imaginary Falcons. I'm not sure about you, but I really find something eerie, depressing, or mournful to be excellent at fortifying my mood when in a wretched state. While Imaginary Falcons is not depressing, it was abundance of eerie sounds and otherworldly effects. After realizing I had heard it a several times in one day, I found myself wondering why I hadn't gotten into it sooner; vexing my stupidity and lackadaisical ways. Should've remained closer to home with "Wedding Song" creating a park in my mind than trying to visit the new greenway in the city. Anyhow, Peaking Lights is sensational, as it might be expected with members of Numbers at the helm. So if you're hankering for psychedelic, lo-fi noise-pop this cannot be missed, that is unless you're even dumber than me.

To be had here:

Peaking Lights - Imaginary Falcons [320 kbps]

Mayer Hawthorne - A Strange Arrangement (2009)

This fella started catching a deal of positive press in the Detroit area weeklies a bit back. To give credit to gumption where it is due, I was not the one that decided to download it and give it a spin, but rather my older brother is to thank for this. Mayer Hawthorne not like any of the other album I've posted. Therefore, I haven't much to compare it to in my usual frame of reference. First thing to avoid though is judging the album by Hawthorne's appearance on the album's art. He might look like he's making something stereotypical like sweet sounding indie pop. While the music is sweet, it is certainly not like the usual pop. The best way I can think of to describe it is a modern version of Blue-Eyed Soul of years back. Most certainly R&B, but so incredibly enjoyable I can't hardly believe there isn't a special genre just for A Strange Arrangement. His soul sound shows he was exposed to much of the same Motown soul stars that most Michigan kids grew up with on the radio such as Isaac Hayes, Curtis Mayfield and Smokey Robinson. I am unsure if this guy is getting the same attention elsewhere, it could just be pride of a local boy that garnered him some friendly press, but it wasn't unjustified. After all, Madlib saw fit to place him on his Stones Throw label. I suggest taking a good listen. I apologize for the low bit rate, my brother doesn't understand...

Not to be had here: jig is up, stones throw found out fast about this one

Rye 'n Clover - Pencils Paper & Scissors (2009)

Absolutely adorable anarcho-folk. That is something I feel is said all too uncommonly. Nonetheless, it is fully merited in use of this artist. I originally discovered it on the underutilized Collective Family website. Therefore this is a free album and another one of my guilt-free shares. As to the music itself, it sounds like a young man with a banjo and ultra-left literature on his mind. Perhaps it is because I am sympathetic to his political views, but it doesn't come off as preachy, but then again I find myself singing along to blues songs about Jesus with even more vigor despite being no fan of his. The songs are about liberation and utopian ideals, or in the case of "Get Away Song" merely a display of banjo-playing skills. The whole thing is barely describable as an album at only 19 minutes, but they're highly enjoyable and I claim good for any fan of folk, banjos, anarchy, or just cute shit.

To be had here:
Pencils Paper & Scissors [160 kbps]

Majmoon - Shimponauts Journey (2006)

Our old love, math rock, has reared its head again in my musical rotation. Majmoon isn't exactly breaking news, but they were sort of overlooked by me and I am pretty sure others when this album came out. The German band has considerable skills at making energized instrumental tracks that is on the fine, beautiful line betwixt math rock and post-rock. If you've been a reader for a bit you'll know of my intense desire to have long, building, epic songs on an album of this sort. Shimponauts Journey does not disappoint on this account. All in all, a finely-crafted addition to any math rock or post-rock collection.

To be had here:
Majmoon - Shimponauts Journey [256 VBR kbps]

Dent May & His Magnificent Ukulele - The Good Feeling Music of Dent May & His Magnificent Ukulele (2009)

A good friend of mine and I all too infrequently are allowed to actually meet in person. In the few times a year this happens we normally spend half of it giving one another music. This is one the albums that he recommended and therefore gave to me. After shelving the album for an undue amount of time, I finally got to checking it out. I saw his picture on the cover and was really hoping that what he lacked in good looks he made up for in talent. He chiefly does so, with my focus lying on his deep, mesmerizing voice. Although billing the ukulele overtly the music doesn't hinge on the lone instrument to the determent of the overall performance. The pop songs are well rounded with my favorites being "You Can't Force A Dance Party" and "Oh, Paris!" The album isn't anything earthshaking, but the comparisons to Stephin Merritt are apt and justified and that alone makes it worth a spin.

To be had here:
The Good Feeling Music of Dent May & His Magnificent Ukulele [160 VBR kbps]

Circulatory System

Circulatory System is a member of the vast Elephant 6 collective like the previous posts of Beulah, Marshmallow Coast and Bablicon. Will Cullen Hart, John Fernandes, and Peter Erchick made this group after the dissolution of the E6 world's prime mover, the Olivia Tremor Control. My girl is here so I need to keep the description breif as she's staring me down. Basically, they're psychedelic pop that is both cute and dream-like at different times. Their new album, Signal Morning, only came out recently and has been in constant rotation on my iPhone ever since. Before anyone sends me comments, I'm gonna give you the heads up the the second album, Inside Views, doesn't have any names for the tracks. In fact the album has no beginning nor end, when they made it they intended for it to be heard in random order, so ignore the numbers and enjoy.

To be had here:




Circulatory System (2001) [256 kbps]










Inside Views (2002) [192 kbps]










Singal Morning (2009) [320 kbps]

Mr. David Viner - Mr. David Viner (2003)

Now, I am sorry if I am messing this info up but I can't be bothered to confirm it all at the moment. Mr. David Viner is British and would play blues all the time for people. A Detroit garage band found him, and I can't recall which one at the moment. He came back to our lovely city and recorded with help from Detroit's adopted sons, the Soledad Brothers. This is his first album and I got it back when it was spankin' new. Merely that I still desire to here it from time to time is a testament to its value. It is strong it the tradition of folk and blues, going as far as to pay homage to the legendary John Fahey on a track. Overall it possesses a light-hearted feeling, although the first song "Nobody's Fault" is beautiful yet melancholy. So if bluesy folk is something you like here is a still active artist worth giving a whirl.

To be had here:
Mr. David Viner - Mr. David Viner

Leafes - In The Mountain's Belly (2007)

I apologize for my long absence. The summer was treating me too well to stop by at the internet. Birds, bees, and my black cat were distracting me, as well as my new hobby of homebrewing (beer, meads and country wine). However, I've moved yet again (I do believe I've lost count) and I'm ready and willing to restart my proselytizing. No place better to begin than with my favorite driving EP of the summer, In The Mountain's Belly. My access to information about Leafes is limited. I understand that it is a Swedish act and the small label is giving this album out for free, so no need to feel guilty today comrades. What the music is I feel more capable in describing. Lo-fi. That is the pivotal descriptor. The entire thing sounds like, and likely is, a bedroom or basement recording. Nevertheless it is unimaginably charming. The second and third track alone will make getting this EP more than worth the trouble to download. They're fuzzy, layered and unsophisticated yet that suits how I've felt this season perfectly. It has thoroughly impressed all my friends thus far and I willing to bet you'll like it too.

To be had here:
Leafes - In The Mountain's Belly

The History of Michigan Garage Bands in the 60s Vol. 1

This shit is pure gold. I found this in the Port Huron public library years ago. Certainly one of the best discoveries of my entire life. Basically, this is a assemblage of tracks which were laid down in the 60s by a bunch of small time garage rock acts, and as the name suggests they're from Michigan. As was usual for the amateur (as in unpaid) garage rocker of that era, many of the songs are covers of popular hits. Nonetheless, I've never heard a version of Diana Ross's "Come See About Me" like the one done by Dearborn City Limits, and yes that is a name of one of the bands. In fact the names these young gentlemen chose for their bands are among the best parts of the album. There are great names such as House of Commons, Lykes of Us, Innsmen, The Hearsemen, Solitary Confinement, and Felix da Housecat (no relation to the modern electronic act). The selection of songs played is equally brilliant with numbers like "Ooo Poo Pa Doo," "A White Shade Of Pale," and "Hootchy Cootchy Man." The compilation is comprised of three discs with 60 tracks, nearly three hours of playtime. Because of the number of them sometimes I'll still find one I'd passed over too quickly and have a new favorite. Although definitely garage rock in the original meaning, these groups aren't going to sound exactly like the more recently garage sensations. In the majority of the cuts the singing is still clinging to the desire to be melodic, whereas being stunning is more important as far as I can tell these days. No fuzz, no crazed drum solos, no screams in this more conservative time of musicianship, yet to my humongous relief falsetto may be found herein. Despite the relatively calm attitude compared to modern garage, don't make the mistake of listening to it as a low volume, this shit need be pumped up. Unfortunately, the name is misleading in one thing, there is no second volume, but if I do recall correctly there's a compilation from the same people containing Texas garage rockers, which I sadly don't have but desperately yearn for.

To be had here @ 160 kbps:
Disc 1

Disc 2

Disc 3

Marshmallow Coast - Ride The Lightning (2002)

I adore this album. Marshmallow Coast is another one of the many Elephant 6 collective groups I spout off about frequently. Ride The Lightning is my favorite of their releases by far. Sadly I uploaded this a bit ago but I haven't gotten much time to use the internet with the bullshit summertime hours I've been getting. What the fuck do people buy pre-made kabobs for anyway? Douchebag rich people... Back to the music! Marshmallow Coast is light, sweet and poppy fluff tunes. Sometimes that is exactly what one is hankering for though. The first track is "Classifieds" a fine example of what the band cranks out regularly, and if you like it you'll likely like the whole album and their others as well.

To be had here:
Ride The Lightning (192 kbps)

Bablicon

Bablicon is far too obscure band for the talent it could tout. In a loose fashion Bablicon can also be included in the greater Elephant 6 family, if your criteria is basically that members of this played in Elephant 6 bands previously. Griffin Rodriguez aka Blue Hawaii who is member of Icy Demons, David McDonnell aka The Dimisher, and perhaps most famous is Jeremy Barnes aka Marta Tennae now leading A Hawk and A Hacksaw as well as formerly working with The Minders. Musically it Bablicon is quite a stretch from the sugary twee pop that Elephant 6 is associated with, but nothing beyond what these seasoned gentlemen were able to do skillfully. Definitely experimental, when I listen I find myself wondering why the term "free jazz" can't be used for this instead of the bullshit that is currently referring to. All of the trio can play a number of instruments and they accordingly make use of this asset. I'd say it is progressive jazzy post-rock improv stuff if that makes any sense. Some call it avant-pop, but I have never even heard of that damned shit.

To be had here: all @ 128 kbps



In A Different City (1999)











The Orange Tapered Moon (2000)










A Flat Inside a Fog: The Cat That Was a Dog (2001)

Curtains - Calamity (2006)

Finally the internet is back at my command. So empowering I'm dizzy just typing this. On to the musics then. Although I'm certain this album did its rounds across the internet, I am compelled to share it once again for all those that might have been so unfortunately to as had missed it. Recently I've been unable to help myself upon getting in the car to automatically begin listening Curtains. The opening track "Go Lucky" works wonders for calming my normally elevated tension that comes with operating an automobile. In praise of this track I by no means want to imply it is all there's to this collection of songs, they're all fantastic. The mellow build up and the lovely higher pitched singing make for a very relaxing listen. Of course it is worth noting that the group is made up of members or former members of some excellent bands such as Deerhoof, Natural Dreamers, Open City, and St. Joseph and the Abandoned Food. Additionally with the release of Calamity they moved to the laudable album Asthmatic Kitty.

To be had here:
Curtains - Calamity [192 VBR kbps]

Ko & The Knockouts - Ko & The Knockouts (2002)

Ko & The Knockouts were only for the many in the turn of the century garage rock acts to sprout up in Detroit. There are several decent acts that are somewhat like Ko & The Knockouts, nonetheless, I find each has their own particularities that makes them interesting. Perhaps my favorite feature of this band is the singing of Ko Shih, from which the name of the group is derived. The members like many garage explosion were partaking in more than one band, the lead singer of the Sights, Eddie Baranek, playing the guitar in this one. Ultimately this would be the undoing of the group though as Ko took a place with Mick Collin's Dirtbombs which lead to the dissolution of the Ko & the Knockouts. Basically, if you like The Gories I shared a bit ago or the Compulsive Gamblers long before that, you might think about getting this. All that said, I understand it is no epic release, but very pleasing for me.

P.S. I've again lost my regular connection to the internet, so I am doing my fucking best. Moreover, I'm in a very strange state of mind because I bought a Doris Day cassette in Northampton, MA and it has been warping my thoughts via Walkman ever since.

To be had here:
Ko & The Knockouts - Ko & The Knockouts [160 kbps]

Nagisa Ni Te - Dream Sounds (2005)

As requested this is additional music by the fantastic Japanese psych-folk duo. There are only four tacks on this album, but they're golden and damned long enough to make up for the small amount. The last track is 2 seconds shy of 21 minutes alone. Every time I read a review of this album the people compare it to a dozen American and British acts, but I really think that fails to bring up the whole fact that the Japanese lyrics are so amazingly beautiful and, at least to a non-speaker, surreal. Though definitely similar to their other albums, this has its own flavor. To get too deep into it would be fruitless I feel. Just download and enjoy.

To be had here:
Nagisa Ni Te - Dream Sounds [160 kbps]

Blanche - If We Can't Trust The Doctors... (2003)

Blanche is an alt-country groups from Detroit. Unusually connected to the garage rock scene that thriving when this album was released Blanche is not likely their contemporaries in the city. Nevertheless, the connection is obvious, as Blanche's headman Dan Miller was formerly know as Goober, the name that he used when he lead his previous group Goober & the Peas. Before Jack White was famous, or even called Jack White for that matter, he played some with Goober & the Peas. Jack "Doc" Gillis as he was then known played not as a guitarist but rather on his original instrument, the drums. However, that isn't particularly important beyond the fact that Blanche and The White Stripes were tour mates, and as such the Stripes did their habitual trick of covering one of their tour mate's songs for a b-side, in this case "Who's to Say." The music of Blanche is certainly far much Americana soaked but far from upbeat, to the degree it is sometimes described as gothic. Brendan Benson (of solo and Raconteurs fame) and Warren Defever (headman of His Name Is Alive) lent their considerable talents to the album. If you're in the mood for something a bit different or quite beautiful sounding I suggest giving Blanche a whirl.

To be had here:
Blanche - If We Can't Trust The Doctors... [192 kbps]

Okay

Marty Anderson's project Okay is creepy, sad, happy, and amazing all at once. He formerly led the post-rock/math rock band Dilute. However, word is that Anderson is shacked up most of the time in his bedroom suffering from Crohn's Disease. As sad as that may be, he's certainly using the time wisely and has produced with the help of friends some premium albums in the last few years. In 2005 he release the twin albums, Low Road and High Road. Accordingly, the former is a bit more down while the latter is more upbeat, both lovely. Anderson sings in an almost childishly nasal voice, which personal I feel makes the surreal sound of his songs much more convincing and strange. These were followed up by the even more superior songs of Huggable Dust. It features what is likely by favorite track by Anderson, "Natural." This is unfortunately followed by his most terrible song, "Hot-Wired" which you should be prepared to skip if you ask me. The lyrics are simple, the music a bit less so yet no Architecture in Helsinki style 9 member melodic confusion. Trust me, you should just listen to Okay.

To be had here:



High Road (2005) [160 kbps]











Low Road (2005) [160 kbps]










Huggable Dust (2008) [192 VBR kbps]

Will Oldham - Seafarers Music (2004)

One of the staggeringly many releases from Will Oldham, especially when considering all his various groups and his other perhaps more famed moniker Bonnie 'Prince' Billy. Seafarers Music was a short four song EP he put out a bit ago. It is simply splendid to listen to. Oldham plays the most dreamlike and soothingly sweet acoustic guitar, which really the only instrument to be found throughout if my memory does not fail me. Moreover, the tracks are long enough to forget what you're doing while hearing them, two stretching over eight minutes each. I do enjoy lengthy songs. Enjoy my friends, tell me what you think.

To be had here:
Will Oldham - Seafarers Music [160 kbps]

Maserati

I'm not gonna lie, I'm in a terrible mood. College is the lamest shit ever and on top of it I've spent a ridiculous amount of hours at a bus station today waiting for someone to arrive. I gave up and am, naturally, drinking off my rage. Today's offering of music is more post-rock. Maserati is even superior than the previous post of Lebanon, but that is personal opinion of course. They're one of the many many bands that are formed in the south's bastion of independent music, Athens, GA. For myself, this band made post-rock undeniable part of my life. Before them it was give or take with periods of infatuation punctuated by disdain. However with Maserati's extremely solid albums I can't ever truthfully say I'm not a real fan of the genre. Both albums are unbelievable, but lately it has been the more recent Inventions for a New Season that captures my attention. I sure hope you enjoy them as much as I do.

To be had here:




The Language of Cities (2001) [128 kbps]









Inventions for a New Season (2007) [192 kbps]

Lebanon

I am gonna keep this short, I really don't have time to post, but I'm doing it anyways. You see, I turn 22 years old today, and I am spending it gloriously eating potatoes and cramming for Japanese history class yet again. So what is dramatically different from a cool spring day in Detroit that might make me forget I'm trapped here? Lebanon, of course, and not just the images from the name, but the band itself. Being Israeli post-rock is in rather lonely company as far as I can tell, but that is exactly what makes it something to pay attention to. This is the more guitar-driven side of the post-rock spectrum, which I find considerably more enjoyable than the overdrawn sounds of the like of Sigur Rós. Two albums, both worthy listening to. Also, pilgrims, wish a happy birthday to Brosef Stalin/danger dog, for it is his birthday as well, and no we're not the same person, it is just a very strange happening.

To be had here:



Sunken City (2005) [192 kbps]









Planet Rubble (2007) [192 VBR kbps]

Nagisa Ni Te - The Same As The Flower (2004)

A duo of Japanese lovers, Shinjii Shibayama and Masako Takeda, form Nagisa Ni Te which translates as "on the beach." I'll admit it, I'm a complete sucker for harmonies and Nagisa Ni Te excels at creating the most beautiful of these. Not unlike the Skygreen Leopards in the last post they make psychedelically tinged folk music almost to the the degree of dream pop, but very unlike them this stuff is fully sung in Japanese. As I frequently point out, the language barrier is nothing to fret over, the sounds of the Japanese language are dazzling elegant to the ear even if one can't understand the meaning of a blasted word. Being enrolled in a Japanese history course this semester as endeared me to the habit of listening to this band while reading the many histories and ethnographies required in the classwork. The Same As The Flower isn't their only release, but it is the one I'm obessing over as of late, but I can share the others I have if there's a call for them. In fact not too long ago I think those wizards over at Ill-formed posted their latest album... Someday I too will be a wizard...

To be had here:
Nagisa Ni Te - The Same As The Flower [192 kbps]