1. People who wear backpacks. I do not want to feel your junk rubbing all over me while you jump up and down like a lunatic.
2. Girls with long hair who don't tie it up. You hair is sweaty and gross. I don't want it leeching onto my skin. Tie that shiz up!
3. Sound guys who don't do their job properly. It's one thing to be in a small venue with terrible acoustics. It's another to be in a small venue with poor acoustics with a sound guy who has no idea what he's doing and how to reduce reverb.
4. Venues without proper facilities/air conditioning/beverages. Self explanatory. I'm going to invent a way to order a drink to your "spot" without pushing through the crowd and loosing your spot.
5. Tweens. I realize I used to be one, but seriously. Just because the band signed your poster doesn't mean you should go about shattering my ear drums.
6. Poor wardrobes. This is minor. Very minor compared to some of the others on this list, but I felt that it needed to be addressed. You're not at prom. You don't need to wear every accessory in your drawer. And, for the sake of us all, KEEP YOUR BRA ON!
7. Cougars. Where are your children? This usually ties into #6.
.....to be continued. I had to vent!
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
New Tune Tuesday!
Today is totally devoted to incredible musicians and my good pals, Ha Ha Tonka!
Well, it's FINALLY here! The new album, Death Of A Decade, from Ha Ha Tonka had a fantastic pre-release on Amazon yesterday for a whopping $2.99! That's cheaper than a gallon of gas, folks! The response was so overwhelming that it moved them all the way up to the #4 spot (as of this time) on the music chart and extended the sale! So, if you haven't bought 10 copies, go do so NOW!
If you don't know anything about Ha Ha Tonka, let me fill you in.
Ha Ha Tonka (formerly Amsterband) charges straight out of the Ozarks with music that will get your toes tapping and fingers snapping. The quartet is comprised of crooner Brian Roberts, drummer Lennon Bone, Brett Anderson on guitar and bassist Lucas Long. Their harmonies are heavenly and their lyrics thought-provoking. Far too often artists compromise meaning for a good beat. Not Ha Ha Tonka. Not only are these guys incredible musicians, they're just about the nicest guys you'll ever meet!
The album starts off strong with Usual Suspect, an awesome tune the guys have been playing on tour for a little bit now. This song sums up Ha Ha Tonka for me. The guitar is beautiful and ties the chorus together perfectly. Usual Suspects leaves you wanting more-exactly what a debut track should do.
Other favorites include Made Example Of, which I heard for the first time at SXSW a few weeks back. The "singability" of this song makes it an instant classic and the perfect driving song. Brian's voice really sounds incredible throughout the entire album, but it shines for me on this track. The title track, Death Of A Decade is definitely solid and, I feel, a most appropriate name for the album. All in all, I think this is one of the best albums I've ever heard.
Recent praise includes:
-The #4 spot on MTV's The 7 countdown. Mentioned as a personal favorite.
-A spot on No Reservations, highlighting the Ozarks.
-Achieving high rankings on Amazon.com's music charts
-Countless rave reviews from music critics and fans alike
PLEASE take the time to sample this album on iTunes and support raw talent by purchasing 25 copies of Death Of A Decade. Thanks.
Till next time,
Jenn
Well, it's FINALLY here! The new album, Death Of A Decade, from Ha Ha Tonka had a fantastic pre-release on Amazon yesterday for a whopping $2.99! That's cheaper than a gallon of gas, folks! The response was so overwhelming that it moved them all the way up to the #4 spot (as of this time) on the music chart and extended the sale! So, if you haven't bought 10 copies, go do so NOW!
If you don't know anything about Ha Ha Tonka, let me fill you in.
Ha Ha Tonka (formerly Amsterband) charges straight out of the Ozarks with music that will get your toes tapping and fingers snapping. The quartet is comprised of crooner Brian Roberts, drummer Lennon Bone, Brett Anderson on guitar and bassist Lucas Long. Their harmonies are heavenly and their lyrics thought-provoking. Far too often artists compromise meaning for a good beat. Not Ha Ha Tonka. Not only are these guys incredible musicians, they're just about the nicest guys you'll ever meet!
The album starts off strong with Usual Suspect, an awesome tune the guys have been playing on tour for a little bit now. This song sums up Ha Ha Tonka for me. The guitar is beautiful and ties the chorus together perfectly. Usual Suspects leaves you wanting more-exactly what a debut track should do.
Other favorites include Made Example Of, which I heard for the first time at SXSW a few weeks back. The "singability" of this song makes it an instant classic and the perfect driving song. Brian's voice really sounds incredible throughout the entire album, but it shines for me on this track. The title track, Death Of A Decade is definitely solid and, I feel, a most appropriate name for the album. All in all, I think this is one of the best albums I've ever heard.
Recent praise includes:
-The #4 spot on MTV's The 7 countdown. Mentioned as a personal favorite.
-A spot on No Reservations, highlighting the Ozarks.
-Achieving high rankings on Amazon.com's music charts
-Countless rave reviews from music critics and fans alike
PLEASE take the time to sample this album on iTunes and support raw talent by purchasing 25 copies of Death Of A Decade. Thanks.
Till next time,
Jenn
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
New Tunes Tuesday!
NOT ALL OF THE ALBUMS FEATURED WERE RELEASED TODAY.
Femme Fatale-Britney Spears C-
I can't say that I particularly care about this album or Britney Spears in general. Her extreme plastic pop sound is just not for me, but something is to be said about someone who has the ability to entertain such a huge audience for so many years. Blame it on the publicity stunts? Femme Fatale is a typical Britney record. You've probably heard "Hold It Against Me," possibly the most unoriginal, annoying pop song on the album. All of the tracks have the same industrial/dance vibe, especially Till The World Ends and Big Fat Bass (that's pronounce "base" not "bass." Not like Lance Bass.)This album sounds a lot like Ke$ha. I think it will do well in clubs, especially South Beach, but it's definitely not something I'd turn on in the car. Love her or hate her, it looks like Britney's fans are happy with this album, which means we have a few more years to put up with her. Oh boy.
Rolling Papers-Wiz Khalifa D
Some people may find it odd that I'm in a rap/hip hop phase right now. I'm sure a lot of you have heard Black And Yellow-well now you can listen to even more Wiz Khalifa tracks with the release of Rolling Papers. I really like the beats and the tone of Wiz's voice, but this album is definitely not for sensitive ears. (Personally, I prefer the edited version.) The regae vibe and acoustic guitar on Fly Solo is unexpected, but I think it works well. Black And Yellow is definitely the strongest track and seems to be the only hit-maker on this album. If you purchase the album on iTunes, you also get 2 music videos and a digital booklet. I DEFINITELY do not support drug use or alcohol abuse.
Radiohead-King Of Limbs B+
(Actually released back in February, but I felt the need to touch on it.) This album is definitely being talked about and getting mixed reviews. The experimental sounds and almost Postal Service-like ambience is a definite change from their anthems like Creep and House Of Cards. There's a lot of syncopation, warped insturments and not a lot of full-band tracks, but it still somehow works. Radiohead is always reinventing their sound, it seems. King Of Limbs is an album that may have to grow on you, but it doesn't take long. Lotus Flower is the hit on this album but Codex is probably my favorite and one of the most brilliant I have heard from them. With only 8 tracks, you're not getting a lot of new content, but with each song clocking in close to 5 minutes, it seems to play longer than most 12-track albums.
Adele-21 A+
Adele is brilliant! I can't say enough! With the sequel to 19, 21 is wiser, seasoned and just plain incedible! You're getting hard-hitting tracks like Rolling In The Deep and Rumor Has It while not sacrificing power ballads like Turning Tables. PLEASE go out and buy this album! I hear people complaining all the time that music is dead, but that is simply not the case. I feel like most female solo artist *cough* Taylor Swift *cough* sing songs of pity, agony and defeat while Adele's songs speak of strength and power. Adele's gorgeous voice, soft soul and powerful lyrics tell a beautiful story. (I wish I could be her...no, really.)
Femme Fatale-Britney Spears C-
I can't say that I particularly care about this album or Britney Spears in general. Her extreme plastic pop sound is just not for me, but something is to be said about someone who has the ability to entertain such a huge audience for so many years. Blame it on the publicity stunts? Femme Fatale is a typical Britney record. You've probably heard "Hold It Against Me," possibly the most unoriginal, annoying pop song on the album. All of the tracks have the same industrial/dance vibe, especially Till The World Ends and Big Fat Bass (that's pronounce "base" not "bass." Not like Lance Bass.)This album sounds a lot like Ke$ha. I think it will do well in clubs, especially South Beach, but it's definitely not something I'd turn on in the car. Love her or hate her, it looks like Britney's fans are happy with this album, which means we have a few more years to put up with her. Oh boy.
Rolling Papers-Wiz Khalifa D
Some people may find it odd that I'm in a rap/hip hop phase right now. I'm sure a lot of you have heard Black And Yellow-well now you can listen to even more Wiz Khalifa tracks with the release of Rolling Papers. I really like the beats and the tone of Wiz's voice, but this album is definitely not for sensitive ears. (Personally, I prefer the edited version.) The regae vibe and acoustic guitar on Fly Solo is unexpected, but I think it works well. Black And Yellow is definitely the strongest track and seems to be the only hit-maker on this album. If you purchase the album on iTunes, you also get 2 music videos and a digital booklet. I DEFINITELY do not support drug use or alcohol abuse.
Radiohead-King Of Limbs B+
(Actually released back in February, but I felt the need to touch on it.) This album is definitely being talked about and getting mixed reviews. The experimental sounds and almost Postal Service-like ambience is a definite change from their anthems like Creep and House Of Cards. There's a lot of syncopation, warped insturments and not a lot of full-band tracks, but it still somehow works. Radiohead is always reinventing their sound, it seems. King Of Limbs is an album that may have to grow on you, but it doesn't take long. Lotus Flower is the hit on this album but Codex is probably my favorite and one of the most brilliant I have heard from them. With only 8 tracks, you're not getting a lot of new content, but with each song clocking in close to 5 minutes, it seems to play longer than most 12-track albums.
Adele-21 A+
Adele is brilliant! I can't say enough! With the sequel to 19, 21 is wiser, seasoned and just plain incedible! You're getting hard-hitting tracks like Rolling In The Deep and Rumor Has It while not sacrificing power ballads like Turning Tables. PLEASE go out and buy this album! I hear people complaining all the time that music is dead, but that is simply not the case. I feel like most female solo artist *cough* Taylor Swift *cough* sing songs of pity, agony and defeat while Adele's songs speak of strength and power. Adele's gorgeous voice, soft soul and powerful lyrics tell a beautiful story. (I wish I could be her...no, really.)
Sunday, March 27, 2011
SofarSounds Show with Winter Wallace, CastleLights and Barcelona
I am so excited to tell you about Sofar Sounds!
After the show at The GroundHall last Sunday night, I went around "liking" all of the bands and became aware of a secret show the following night. I asked for more info and Aaron, from CastleLights, was oh so kind enough to send me the details. I left straight from work, all alone and ventured out to what was possibly one of the most amazing musical experiences of my life.
If you don't know, Sofar stands for SOngs From A Room. It is a musical movement, started in London, to bring music lovers together, most commonly in someone's living room, to experience an intimate acoustic-style concert. During the sets, everyone is listening, almost in a spell. It's a great way to discover new music or gain even more appreciation for the artists you already love. You can head to their website to join their mailing list and become a friend on Facebook to learn more and be notified when Sofar holds an event in your city!
I stood behind the couch for a while. I said hello to the bands and a few girls came over to introduce themselves and then I struck up a conversation with another girl who was there alone. I totally forgot her name, but it was so great meeting you! Hope to see you next time!
First up was Winter Wallace. I really loved her. There was something so soothing and effortless to her voice. They played a wonderful set and were incredibly friendly. They are from the Houston area, so I highly recommend keeping your eye on them. As I'm sitting at Starbucks typing this, I wish I could have them playing in the background!
Next was my new friends, CastleLights. A HUGE thank you to Aaron Eaves, who made this show possible for me! Thank you a million and one! I was so happy to hear familiar songs from the night before and I believe one or two that I hadn't heard before. These guys have really great presence and I fell in love with a song called Never Alone. (I believe! I'll revise that if I'm wrong!) I'm really excited to keep tabs on these guys and already have quite a few friends lined up to go to their next show. It feels great to have a Houston-based band to help promote!
Last was Barcelona. ("more party!") Their set was similar, if not the same as the night before, but the acoustic vibe was great! It was nice to hear Brian's voice on a stripped down version of Please Don't Go without (rude) people talking in the background. Less Than 2 is my favorite new song so far. Barcelona sounded as wonderful as ever and I was so happy to have more time to chat with Rhett, Brian, Chris and the "other" Chris. These are the nicest guys you will EVER meet and their love of music and people in general really shines through.
Thank you so much to Sofar Sounds, the hosts, the musicians and everyone who made this night so wonderful! I was completely impressed and will be looking forward to the next Songs From A Room-Houston date.
?/CastleLights/Finnegan/Barcelona @ The GroundHall 3/20/11
I can't tell you how excited I am about this post! I put it off a week, to collect my thoughts, yet all I want to say is "assdjksa!!!" :)
If you know me, you know that Barcelona is like... one of, it not my favorite band(s) EVER. Excuse me for sounding like a fan girl. I accept any names you may feel the need to throw my way.
Let me give you some back story. Feel free to jump over this if you don't want to hear about my insanity. I can't say I'd blame you. So I was out late for a few nights in a row, then headed to South By SouthWest in Austin, Texas early Saturday morning. We got back to Houston around 4pm on Sunday and my car wouldn't start. I'd had issues before with the battery terminals. I'd go into detail, but I don't want to blow your mind and be held accountable. Basically, I got help jumping the car, went to pick up my brother and had to fix it all over again by myself. Awesome, right? My dad told me I shouldn't go to the show just in case I didn't do it correctly, but I'm stubborn and my brother and I took off for downtown. I didn't have time to go home, but luckily a little OrangeGlo took the grease off my hands. So insane!
Okay. Back to the show. Check out my venue profile for The GroudHall by clicking HERE!
The first band that went on didn't have a name.(By the end of the night, I heard someone refer to them as Violet CoPilot?) They were brand new, though very impressive. I'll update once I find out more information and if they have any more shows lined up.
Finnegan was a great addition to the bill. As they were setting up, I got a kind of "Austin" vibe and anticipated what was to come. What I admired most was their addition of a stand up bass and flute to their band. It added an interesting texture to their music, especially in such an intimate venue. I'd love to hear more from them in the future, as I think their music definitely has a place in Houston.
Next was CastleLights. I can't say I had heard of them, as they are also a newer band and still getting their name out there, but I was totally blown away. I really didn't want their set to end, even though I was looking forward to Barcelona. On top of their talent, the guys are incredibly kind. They do have an EP entitled Paint The Stars that I highly recommend, specifically the tracks Saint Era and Paint The Stars. A big thank you to Aaron, Tyler and Jeremiah! Can't wait to see you all again soon!
Finally it was time for Barcelona! One thing I can honestly say is that these guys know how to put together a killer set! All of their songs are incredible and the lyrics are some of the most simple, yet powerful I've ever come across. They skipped over one of my favorite tracks, Time To Mend, but hit crowd-pleasers like Falling Out Of Trees and It's About Time. (Side note-Chris Bristol has the most amazing guitar I've ever seen! If my brother keeps playing, I may have to save and get him one eventually. Shh...don't tell him!) Brian has been blessed with a fantastic voice. He and Chris harmonize seamlessly and really have a way of bringing the lyrics to live. You can buy their album, Absolutes, on Amazon and expect a new album early summer. The new tracks sound incredible, especially one entitled "Less Than 2." I'm really looking forward to the new material from these guys.
My brother and I had a wonderful time at this show. He kept saying "I'm so shocked these guys haven't blown up yet!" I guess I trained his ear well!
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
SXSW 2011
(aka that time I went to Austin and nothing bad happened!)
I have bad luck in Austin. I love the city, the music, the food, the lack of hurricanes...but usually when I visit, someone's car blows up, I catch the flu or something equally lame happens. Well, ladies and gentlemen, not this time!
Believe it or not, this was my very first SXSW experience. Insane, right? I'd been in Austin at the time of Southby but I was there for Broadway and wasn't aware of the plethora of free shows.
We started off at Threadgills to see some friends of mine, Ha Ha Tonka. We got there about 15 minutes late and watched Extra Action Marching Band, oblivious to the fact that there was a stage inside, where Ha Ha Tonka was setting up. Extra Action was incredible-I had never heard a marching band (of nearly 30 people, it seemed) playing such lively and just plain awesome music! There were a few guys on stilts, gypsy-looking dancers, and a stage full or drums and brass! I was completely impressed and will definitely be checking these guys out again ASAP!
After Extra Action's set ended, I asked the sound guy about Ha Ha Tonka and he let me know where to go inside. Luckily, they were running about 45 minutes late and we were just in time! The luck of the Irish, right there! My girls and I grabbed a table in the front so I could get good video, but the lighting was weird so my pictures aren't the best. HHT played a short set, but hit all the right songs. I think they had an appropriate mix of new and old material. One of my favorites, Gusto, didn't make the set, but I highly recommend checking that tune out. One thing I love about Ha Ha Tonka is their perfect harmonies. I've never heard a sour note. They really seemed to have the audience's full attention with their foot-stompin' soul! The new songs from their upcoming album, Death Of A Decade, make me think that I'll be keeping that album on constant repeat for a while. Tonka finished with a crowd favorite, 12 Inch, 3 Speed Oscillating Fan-a song originally done by another ozark band, Big Smith. For a short showcase set, I really think they pulled out all the stops and left a great impression on their listeners.
After Ha Ha Tonka, we headed over to the fairground area (not sure of the exact name) to catch Bright Eyes. I admit, I'm not a huge fan. I guess I just never explored all of Connor Oberst's music. After watching most of his set, I feel like I've been missing out. Connor really seemed comfortable on stage-kinda like he could do it in his sleep, but not in the "I'm so over this" kind of way. The energy was great, especially while we watched the "Super Moon" rise over the skyline. I've since downloaded a few tracks and they're growing on me.
Finally, it was time for one of the highlights of our SXSW experience-Greek Fire, The Limousines and Neon Trees! (Extra special thanks to Tyler for getting us in to this one! We REALLY appreciate it and had a great time!)
I have to admit, I hadn't heard of Greek Fire or The Limousines, but I'm so glad that I know them now! Greek Fire hooked me. I didn't know a single song, but I was fixated. They really put on a great show! Definitely check them out!
Next was Limousines. An interesting electronic duo with special effects, lights, the whole nine yards! I'm not sure that their music is something I could keep on my "most played" playlist, but it definitely has it's place on my iPod. If you're into electronica, this may be a band you want to keep your eyes on. I'd say that they're a little more intense thank The Postal Service, especially content wise.
Then Neon Trees took the stage after MUCH waiting. The sound guy was awful. I really hate to knock on someone who's been hired to do such a difficult task, but the horrible acoustics at Emos plus a not-so-experienced person at the mixer makes for a lot of anxious and unhappy people. I recorded "Animal" and "1983," but even with my microphone tweaked for a concert setting, it really doesn't sound like much of anything. Very disappointing, especially when compared to the stellar video at other venues. Tyler has SO much energy on stage and he really gets the crowd going with his goofy dance moves, crowd surfing and powerful presence. Half way through, he asked for prayer for a friend who worked for Neon Trees who had an enlarged heart and was on life support. I heart broke for them, especially after I got news that the guy stopped breathing yesterday. Rest his soul. Despite the difficult emotional situation, Neon Trees gave a great performance, even with the sound being off.
If you ever get the chance to head out to Austin for South By Southwest, please do! You definitely won't regret it! You can go to most shows without a badge and sometimes even badge shows will let you pay a small cover to get in. I'll have a post on my tips for how to survive SXSW soon.
What an incredible weekend full of awesome music and great friends!
Special thanks to Tyler of Neon Trees, Ha Ha Tonka, the scraggly looking guitar player who gave me a hug at our hotel, the man in the cow pants, the man with the mullet in the belly shorts and jorts and the guy with the goofy hat at the gas station who asked me if I knew how to make moonshine.
Peace, Love and fried pickles!
-Jenn
I have bad luck in Austin. I love the city, the music, the food, the lack of hurricanes...but usually when I visit, someone's car blows up, I catch the flu or something equally lame happens. Well, ladies and gentlemen, not this time!
Believe it or not, this was my very first SXSW experience. Insane, right? I'd been in Austin at the time of Southby but I was there for Broadway and wasn't aware of the plethora of free shows.
We started off at Threadgills to see some friends of mine, Ha Ha Tonka. We got there about 15 minutes late and watched Extra Action Marching Band, oblivious to the fact that there was a stage inside, where Ha Ha Tonka was setting up. Extra Action was incredible-I had never heard a marching band (of nearly 30 people, it seemed) playing such lively and just plain awesome music! There were a few guys on stilts, gypsy-looking dancers, and a stage full or drums and brass! I was completely impressed and will definitely be checking these guys out again ASAP!
After Extra Action's set ended, I asked the sound guy about Ha Ha Tonka and he let me know where to go inside. Luckily, they were running about 45 minutes late and we were just in time! The luck of the Irish, right there! My girls and I grabbed a table in the front so I could get good video, but the lighting was weird so my pictures aren't the best. HHT played a short set, but hit all the right songs. I think they had an appropriate mix of new and old material. One of my favorites, Gusto, didn't make the set, but I highly recommend checking that tune out. One thing I love about Ha Ha Tonka is their perfect harmonies. I've never heard a sour note. They really seemed to have the audience's full attention with their foot-stompin' soul! The new songs from their upcoming album, Death Of A Decade, make me think that I'll be keeping that album on constant repeat for a while. Tonka finished with a crowd favorite, 12 Inch, 3 Speed Oscillating Fan-a song originally done by another ozark band, Big Smith. For a short showcase set, I really think they pulled out all the stops and left a great impression on their listeners.
After Ha Ha Tonka, we headed over to the fairground area (not sure of the exact name) to catch Bright Eyes. I admit, I'm not a huge fan. I guess I just never explored all of Connor Oberst's music. After watching most of his set, I feel like I've been missing out. Connor really seemed comfortable on stage-kinda like he could do it in his sleep, but not in the "I'm so over this" kind of way. The energy was great, especially while we watched the "Super Moon" rise over the skyline. I've since downloaded a few tracks and they're growing on me.
Finally, it was time for one of the highlights of our SXSW experience-Greek Fire, The Limousines and Neon Trees! (Extra special thanks to Tyler for getting us in to this one! We REALLY appreciate it and had a great time!)
I have to admit, I hadn't heard of Greek Fire or The Limousines, but I'm so glad that I know them now! Greek Fire hooked me. I didn't know a single song, but I was fixated. They really put on a great show! Definitely check them out!
Next was Limousines. An interesting electronic duo with special effects, lights, the whole nine yards! I'm not sure that their music is something I could keep on my "most played" playlist, but it definitely has it's place on my iPod. If you're into electronica, this may be a band you want to keep your eyes on. I'd say that they're a little more intense thank The Postal Service, especially content wise.
Then Neon Trees took the stage after MUCH waiting. The sound guy was awful. I really hate to knock on someone who's been hired to do such a difficult task, but the horrible acoustics at Emos plus a not-so-experienced person at the mixer makes for a lot of anxious and unhappy people. I recorded "Animal" and "1983," but even with my microphone tweaked for a concert setting, it really doesn't sound like much of anything. Very disappointing, especially when compared to the stellar video at other venues. Tyler has SO much energy on stage and he really gets the crowd going with his goofy dance moves, crowd surfing and powerful presence. Half way through, he asked for prayer for a friend who worked for Neon Trees who had an enlarged heart and was on life support. I heart broke for them, especially after I got news that the guy stopped breathing yesterday. Rest his soul. Despite the difficult emotional situation, Neon Trees gave a great performance, even with the sound being off.
If you ever get the chance to head out to Austin for South By Southwest, please do! You definitely won't regret it! You can go to most shows without a badge and sometimes even badge shows will let you pay a small cover to get in. I'll have a post on my tips for how to survive SXSW soon.
What an incredible weekend full of awesome music and great friends!
Special thanks to Tyler of Neon Trees, Ha Ha Tonka, the scraggly looking guitar player who gave me a hug at our hotel, the man in the cow pants, the man with the mullet in the belly shorts and jorts and the guy with the goofy hat at the gas station who asked me if I knew how to make moonshine.
Peace, Love and fried pickles!
-Jenn
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