Sunday, January 20, 2013

The Chapman Family - ADULT

I first wrote about The Chapman Family on a previous music blog. Now, I get to write about them again, because they have released a new single entitled "ADULT". Oh man, this is good stuff!

Upon first listen, "ADULT" sounds like The Smiths with teeth. We're talking nasty, sharp teeth here. Unlike their debut album "Burn Your Town" and last year's "Cruel Britannia" EP, the bass drives this song and the guitars provide some beautiful ear candy. It's a nice change of pace without deviating from their signature sound. I will use a phrase I used in my previous writeup: The Chapman Family have once again delivered something that is very raw and very real.

"ADULT" is available to download FOR FREE via their website. The video is available here (via ArtRocker.tv)

Tuesday, January 15, 2013

Music for Cold Weather

It snowed in North Texas this morning. On my commute to and from work on the bus, I wanted to pick an album that reflected my mood and the weather. I went with "Lost Souls" by Doves. As the music played, I got to thinking about how certain bands and albums are perfect for certain weather conditions. Here are some of my favorites:

Doves - "Lost Souls"
Everything about this album says winter. The mood the music creates is one of grey skies, cold temperatures, muddy snow, and anoraks. Basically, Manchester in January.

Slowdive - "Pygmalion"
This is an album that is perfect for night time. Light a fire for warmth, have a drink, lay back in your favorite chair or in your bed (preferably with someone else), and just let the music take you to another place.

Exit Calm - "Exit Calm"
This album creates a mood similar to the one I described with Doves. The difference, however, is that Exit Calm embraces the greyness of the day, whereas Doves wishes for sunshine and warmer temperatures. We've all had that moment where we've had to go outside in snowy or icy conditions, even if we didn't want to. If Doves is the begrudging, "Okay, fine. Let's go," reaction, then Exit Calm's self-titled debut album is definitely the "Fuck it, let's get out there!" opposite reaction.

. Those are just three of my favorite cold weather albums. I'm curious to hear some of yours.

Tuesday, January 8, 2013

New music from SUEDE and DAVID BOWIE!

A couple of weeks too late, but oh, this is Christmas!

Here's the new single from Britpop legends Suede. Entitled "Barriers", it has the feel of a U2-esque anthem. That unmistakable Bernard Butler guitar sound is back.



The song is available as a free download via their website.

As if that wasn't enough, David Bowie has released a new song on his birthday. Not only that, but there's a new album on the way in March! I suppose he got tired of his semi-retirement? "Where Are We Now?" has that mellow sound that you've heard from Bowie since "Hours...". Some people have labeled it strange, and others flat don't like it. I happen to think it's a great song. We need David Bowie back.

Tuesday, January 1, 2013

Gregory Scott Slay



Gregory Scott Slay (1969-2010)

He was a loving husband, a devoted father, and a phenomenal musician. He was one of the best drummers I ever had the privilege of watching. He struggled every day with Cystic Fibrosis, and he lived to the age of 40, which is almost unheard of for people living with CF. It is a testament to the doctors and researchers who are working on new drugs and treatments that may one day lead to a cure.

Rest well, friend. We miss you.