Wednesday, August 31, 2011

Fueled by Ramen 15th Anniversary

Fueled by Ramen will be celebrating their 15th Anniversary as a music label with concerts on Sept. 7th and 9th!

Sept. 7th: Paramore, The Swellers and This Providence

Sept. 9th: Cobra Starship, Gym Class Heroes, The Academy Is...

Get tickets here!

Sunday, August 28, 2011

Lykke Li, Wounded Rhymes

Li Lykke Timotej Zachrisson, known by her stage name as Lykke Li, is Swedish singer-songwriter of mostly indie rock and electronic pop. Her first album, Youth Novels, was released in Europe in January 2008. Ever since, her songs has filled the playlists of many indie music lovers.

Lykke Li has a uniquely soft and high voice. It's one of those natural voices that is 10 times better heard live rather than from a recording studio. Her lyrics are comparable to Ingrid Michaelson's creativity. Some of Lykke's songs might also catch you off guard as she sings with firm confidence and determination of her sexual needs. It can even make the Rolling Stones blush. Her hit, Get Some, turned a few heads. Lykke once mentioned in an interview that the reason some people are surprised by her lyrics, is because she is a girl. She doesn't see the same reaction when the same topic comes from a guy's mouth. There's much truth in that.

Here's her video for "Little Bit," from her first album. Also one of my favorites.


Lykke Li was asked to be a part of the soundtrack for "Twilight Saga: New Moon" which came out in 2009. The result was a hauntingly slow and torturous love song, named "Possibility." The length is 5 minutes. Lykke can jam both ways. This will be the first and hopefully the last time that I will ever have the need to mention Twilight the series. EVER.

Her second and newest album, Wounded Rhymes, came out in February of 2011. This was also the month that her picture and name was splashed across the cover Spin magazine! Read her interview here. This album is still very much her style but much more mature. You can hear the steady ground she's on, compared to the first album.

Lykke's next performance in the Northeast will be on 11/17/2011 at the Wellmont Theater in Montclair, NJ. Get your tickets early! I learned that after waiting too long for so many times. Argh.

From her new album, "I Follow Rivers."

Irene Aftermath

Hope everyone is safe and sound after Irene's gentle visit!

Friday, August 26, 2011

Charlie Parker Jazz Festival on Saturday, cancelled Sunday

The annual Charlie Parker Jazz Festival will still be on this Saturday (8/27/11) and is cancelled for Sunday (8/28/11).

FYI: NYC subway system might be shut down starting Saturday afternoon. All outdoor activity permits for Sunday have been revoked by the Mayor's Office.

Take precautions, everyone!

Thursday, August 25, 2011

The Wavves and I Just Want My Pants Back

A little news on this dreary day.

"I Just Want My Pants Back" is a new show that is being produced by MTV. You dirty minds. Earlier today, MTV announced that Nathan Williams of the San Diego band, the Wavves, will be producing the soundtrack for this show. Here's the announcement on Billboard. "I Just Want My Pants Back" is based on a book by David J. Rosen about young adults trying to find their way in life. Yes. Um, this story sounds a little too familiar.

Anyway, congrats to Nathan and the Wavves! Some good news to bounce off Mother Nature's wrath that is impeding on their concert tonight. Still no word if it's still on. But Hurricane Irene still plans to make her grand entrance.

FYI: The Wavves will also be playing at the QuikSilverPro Festival at Long Beach on Sept. 1st. See you there ;)

Wednesday, August 24, 2011

The Wavves and Salsa tomorrow 8/25/11 for FREEEEE

Just a reminder:

The Wavves will be performing with the Dum Dum Girls at East River Park (Aphitheater) @ 7PM. This is a part of NYC Summerstage and will be a free performance!

Salsa dancing and lessons with DJ Babaloo at South Street Seaport, on the boardwalk by Skipper's Bar @ 7PM. Free!

Check the Upcoming Events List, on the right, for more.
Have fun and enjoy!

UPDATE: While looking out the window and checking with the reports, I'm going to assume these awesome outdoor events are looking towards cancellation tonight! Stay dry, everyone!

Tuesday, August 23, 2011

Hudson River Blues and BBQ


This past Sunday was the annual Hudson River Blues and BBQ Festival! I LOVE my Blues and LOVE my BBQ. I still remember last year's Festival like it was yesterday. I lasted a whole 5 minutes in the thundering rains. My rain boots and Totes umbrella were no competition. If I stayed any longer, it would not have been pretty.

This year was way more successful. But still ended the same! Well, I got to listen to a few songs. A few very good vintage blues and jazz songs. Many people were turning and twisting and dancing the Sunday afternoon away in the middle of the aisles. The ladies got excited when Braithwaite & Whiteley sang "Rockit Like a Nubian Queen." Not so excited about what happened afterwards. The sky opened up on us like we just won the Superbowl. Thank goodness no Gatorade was invloved. But most of the crowd, like moi, were prepared with (stronger) boots and umbrellas. Unfortunately the festivities had to shut down around 6 PM because of the pesky rain. We got a good few hours in, though. Here's hoping to a dryer Festival next year? I said this last year, too!

Dinosaur BBQ: pork sandwich. MWAAUM.







Trombone Shorty and Orleans Ave at the Box 9/13/11

Good. Grief.

I was looking forward to getting a pair of tickets to Trombone Shorty's performance at the Box in October. Silly me didn't want to pay the crazy handling fee, holding fee and pay-us-more fee online. So I decided to just go and pick them up at the box office. Tickets went on sale on Friday, 8/19/11. I went on the following Monday. Lady at the register said, "Oh, I don't think we sell it here." "Wait, just kidding! No, it's sold out." Whaaaaaaat? Sorry, guys. If you didn't get them by Sunday then you're out of luck, too.

I was so ... lost! When did they get that popular? I mean, it's a great thing, haha. I inquired about their tour schedule and was told that they are looking into adding NYC performances at the end of this year or early 2012. Well, time flies anyway. Fine. I'll pay the moocher fees next time. You win! =P

Monday, August 22, 2011

The Wombats

I love this name. It's much cuter and cuddlier than a certain parasite. I was introduced to the Wombats by a dear friend who is currently residing in fabulous Los Angeles. But according to her, the city ain't all that fab. Only in my head. Let's keep it that way for now.

I love the Wombats like I love cookie dough. So questionable at first glance but so warm and gooey once you've taken the leap! The Wombats came together in 2003 and consists of 3 members from Liverpool, England. Matthew Murphy, Dan Haggis and Tord Ă˜verland-Knudsen came out with their first single, Tales of Girls, Boys and Marsupials. No word if Taz was involved with this production.

Their debut album, "A Guide to Love, Loss & Desperation" came out in November of 2007. Oh, and it hit platinum status in the UK and gold in Australia! Figures why New Yorkers were just going about their day on there subway when the Wombats were performing "Backfire at the Disco." Blah, who am I kidding. I wouldn't care who showed up on the subway either. It takes long enough to get from Point A to Point B already without losing your sanity.

The song, "Kill the Director," from this album has such a morbid title. But you gotta give it a chance. It's hysterically true! Makes me do the Lisa Simpson crack laugh.
Sample lyrics: Here's another song about a gender I'll never understand / If this is a rom-com then kill the director, please

They came out with their second album, "This Modern Glitch," in April 2011. AND the Wombats will be performing at Webster Hall on October 19, 2011. Get your tickets ($16 advance/$20 at door)! Please, get your tickets and join me there. I'm still looking for some peeps to go with!

Here's "Backfire at the Disco" on the subway. Look at that guy busting some moves with his soda cup! He knows what's kicking. Wait. Is that my train line?






Oy

Sorry. Had to take a break. Back!

Monday, August 15, 2011

Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue on Conan Tonight 8/15/11

Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue will be performing songs from their new album, For True, tonight on Conan! For True will be out on September 13, 2011.

Tune in tonight!
TBS @ 11PM (EST)

Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue @ Louisiana Music Factory



Saturday, August 13, 2011

Little Hurricane

OMFG. This is the only thing that comes to mind when they perform on stage. OMFG. The first time I met Little Hurricane was during the cold days of a NYC winter, earlier this year. I can't believe I was seeing and listening to this, live.

Their coolness and sexiness factor just sky rockets out of this world. This is even before they show you how musically talented they are. It's insane. The question is, how are they camera and audio ready, all the time?

Little Hurricane describes themselves as dirty blues. Dirty meaning whatever you want it to mean. The songs are exactly a reflection of what this two musicians are. Sexy and cool. This duo is made up of singer-guitarist Anthony “Tone” Catalano and drummer-singer Celeste “CC” Spina. The chemistry and talents between these two are just too hard to ignore. Watch the video below and tell me otherwise! "Give Em Hell," is one hell of a song for sure. It would be the music world's lost if the big guns don't pay attention to them. As of now, they are doing everything themselves with no label. With the following that is building up for them, I'm sure one will be knocking on their doors soon.

Little Hurricane has decided to continue with the rest of their tour, this year, in the Southwest. I was lucky to catch them while they 'were here. This is definitely one of the bands that I am willing to buy plane tickets to go see them live, wherever they perform. That's how freaking good they are.

Tuesday, August 9, 2011

DJ Babaloo and Salsa @ South Street Seaport

I really hope all of you are taking advantage of the summer season by going out there and enjoying the city. Can't emphasize enough on how many free things and events there are to do.

I was recently told about free salsa lessons and dancing at South Street Seaport, by Skipper's Bar, at 7PM on Thursdays and Saturdays throughout the summer (last day is 9/1). Whoa what?!

When the night started, the host introduced the crowd (all 7 of us) to beginner's salsa dancing. After convincing a few shy but brave souls to demonstrate, the party got started. As the night came upon us, the host let DJ Babaloo take over. By that time, a few more people gathered on the pier. Then DJ Babaloo ripped the dance floor (or pier) with classic Latin music. More and more people couldn't resist the urge to jump onto the dance floor! There was a mix of expert dancers and novices. The pros would offer to dance with the newbies and teach them a few steps. Love it!

DJ Babaloo knows how to make the atmosphere alive according to the crowd's needs. He kept us on our toes all night. It didn't matter if you had a dance partner or not, DJ Babaloo will get you in the mood! Before I knew it, the floor was filled and the bar seats were empty. We even got a treat from the East River. Fireworks!

Monday, August 8, 2011

Alexander McQueen's Savage Beauty


Yep. I did it. I did the wait. It was just half the fun! Whatever it's worth to you, you will make the wait. Man, was it breathtaking. Absolutely breathtaking.

One of my friends noted my procrasination by pointing out my waiting until the last day of the exhibit to go. It builds up the excitement! ...Did that excuse work?



Music to Know Festival 2011 CANCELLED

...WTH??

Well, things happen. Music to Know was supposed to go on from August 13th to the 14th. There were a few recognizable names in the line-up such as Vampire Weekend and Ellie Goulding. Looked like a great idea...but I guess it was better on paper than in reality.

Another issue was that Music to Know was scheduled just a week after another Hamptons concert (Escape to New York). How many times did you expect people to pay $110 to go all the way into the Hamptons for a concert one week after another? This ain't Dave Matthews Band!! No disrespect...

Hopefully they'll have better luck next year.

Saturday, August 6, 2011

Deer Tick

Really? Deer Tick? My first impression. Actually, that included some goosebumps and squirming because I'm not a huge fan of parasites. Even the word gives me the heebie geebies. But get past that and get to the music!

Deer Tick made their TV debut on David Letterman during the summer of last year. Don't let their young age fool you. They are all folk and bluegrass with a modern twist. They consider themselves a rock and roll band. It's a very interesting sound and more loyal to bluegrass than rock. I absolutely love their song, Baltimore Blues No.1. Who would've thought!? Then I found out they covered one of Sammy Davis Jr's songs. There, you got me.

Deer Tick consists of the founder, John McCauley, Ian O'Neil, Rob Crowell, Christopher Ryan and Dennis Ryan. They hail from Providence, RI. Yep, this is where all those mansions are! And beautiful beaches. Anyways, there's been many changes in the line-up of Deer Tick over the years. Let's hope they finally got it right. Their latest album, The Black Dirt Sessions, came out on June 8, 2010.

They'll be performing at the Hudson River Rocks (NYC) at Pier 54 on Monday, 8/8/2011 @ 7. It's a free concert! What else are you going to do on a Monday night? See you there.

RESCHEDULED!!! FYI, I've just been informed that Deer Tick's performance has been rescheduled to THURSDAY, 8/11/11, @ 7 PM @ Pier 54. Ok, so...hope your Monday night goes well anyway!

Thursday, August 4, 2011

Ellie Goulding @ Union Square 7/2011

This past Saturday, Ellie Goulding performed at Best Buy at Union Square in NYC. And I got there 1.5 hours early to see her! I would've been there earlier if it wasn't for the infamous MTA verse, "We are delayed because of train traffic. Please be patient," blaring into my ears for over an hour. I find it hard to believe that no one has gone nuts on one of these subways by now. #$*&^%!@*.

Anywho, I picked my spot, got my CD and a nice wristband to meet Ellie after the show. Ah, living the moment as a groupie. I totally went head over heels a while ago when I first heard her dance song, Lights, and her beautiful ballad, The Writer. Her heavy British accent shines so brightly through every one of her words. You and I know we love it! Finally the moment has come.

Ellie first sang her hit dance song, "Lights." Acoustic. Girl can sing her lungs out! The CD does her no justice in displaying the power, strength and rawness of her voice. I was very surprised. Seeing her live changed everything.

Most of her songs are electropop and dance. She has the appeal of Kylie Minogue, the humbleness of girl-next-door Cheryl Cole, and the powerful lungs of Natasha Bedingfield. But Ellie is an absolute original. Just listen. I must also add that you should not trust the pictures. Ellie is even more stunningly beautiful in person.

This UK powerhouse has been touring in the States and will be one of the headliners at the concert, Music to Know in the Hamptons in August. Ellie started her career in 2009 with her debut single, "Under the Sheets." It hit the top of the UK charts. Her debut album, Lights, came out in March of last year. One of my favorite songs is "Salt Skin." She sang it on Saturday as well. But after taking a load of pictures for the first 10 minutes, I had to put away all my shenanigans and ENJOY the performance.

Monday, August 1, 2011

Class Actress - I want to "Keep You"!

It's amazing what the human memory can go on with nothing but a silhouette, a note or a dance move as a reminder.

Some friends invited me to join them at one of the Hudson River Rocks show, last night. Yes, I totally missed this information before! Thank goodness for friends. They wanted to go see Class Actress. The name didn't ring a bell with me and I didn't have time to look up who this band was before I headed there. I was walking onto the packed Pier (let's just say I thought I was in Williamsburg) just as Class Actress started to play, "Let Me Take You Out." Holy mackerel freaking goodness. Then I looked up at the stage. I was far, far back but I KNOW that dance and silhouette of the singer, Elizabeth Harper.


I first saw them at Bowery Ballroom as an opening act! Probably about 2 years ago. Things has changed since then and for the better, I see. I thought they were pretty good back then but never had a chance to catch their name. Now I finally know and will remember it!

Class Actress' songs are heavily synth and electro that are softened by Elizabeth Harper's smokey but strong voice. They focus strongly on a music style best described as a very mod 80s. This music sounds like the journey of a girl in a big city trying to figure out her glamorous path amongst everyone. And nothing will get in her way towards finding it.



I'm liking their new song, Keep You, more and more. Yes, more than the songs from their last album! The band sounds more confident in their style in this new song. It's like hearing, "Yes, this is me. This is what I am!" in the background. The new album is named Rapprocher and will be out on October 18, 2011. I'm looking forward to hear what incredible beats, styles and lyrics Class Actress has to offer.