Elizabeth My Dear - Flaming Lips ft. Ke$ha and New Fumes

During Black Friday this year, Record Store Day released some limited releases to independent record stores one of which included the Flaming Lips cover album of the Stone Roses. The album was limited to a run of 500 so consider yourself lucky if you were able to grab a copy for yourself. Listen to their psychedelic cover of "Elizabeth My Dear" which features Ke$ha and New Fumes as well.

Called to Ring - Ariel Pink and Jorge Elbrecht

Mexican Summer celebrated the success of their record label's 5th year of business this year and are commemorating it with a massive picture book that includes and exclusive 10" record. The exclusive record features many of the label's artists collaborating to create new songs. One of the tracks featured on this 10" is titled, "Called to Ring" and is done by the likes of Ariel Pink and Jorge Elbrecht. The two create a nice reverb heavy, psych, garage rock sounding tune that will play out well for your afternoon listening. Go ahead and give this track a listen and see what you think for yourself.

Ski Lodge - Big Heart

One of many new indie pop rock groups out of New York City is the group Ski Lodge, who released their debut album, Big Heart, via Dovecote records back on August 20th. The group's material is the creative thoughts behind a 26 year, Andrew Marr who has crafted an album of upbeat, happy go lucky sounding music which seems to mask the dark nature of his lyrics. The album serves as an interesting listen if you are a fan of indie pop rock and if you don't like the entire album, I'm sure the album single, "Just Be Like You", which was released last year will be stuck in your head like it is in mine. So put your ears to this song and see what you think for yourself of this New York group.

Darkside First 11 Minutes Off Of Forthcoming Record

Darkside is the collaboration between artists Nicholas Jaar and Dave Harrington and a great collaboration at that. They have released an EP and remixed Daft Punk's Random Access Memories but this Fall they will release a full length self titled LP on Nicholas Jaar's label Other People. The first 11 minutes sound like something in the Nicholas Jaar ballpark but know that in saying that, this is a very good thing. It has the slow dramatic electronic build with the nice beat that comes in later in the song and keeps your head bobbing throughout as the song continues to evolve. I think this will end up being one of the highlight releases of the Fall so keep your eyes out for the release of this record. Listen to the first 11 minutes below and see what you think for yourself. This listen comes highly recommended!

Oneohtrix Point Never - Problem Areas

Oneohtrix Point Never a.k.a. Daniel Lopatin will be releasing a highly anticipated record this year, R Plus Seven. Oneohtrix Point Never has really established a name for himself crafting some of the best minimal electronic music being created today. His ambient textures are so brilliantly crafted that this record leaves one very excited for what is in store. The album is said to be different from anything he has done before and listening to the single one can see that this record is not going to be a repeat of previous works. I strongly recommend this single to anyone willing to give it the listen. Put your ears to this track and see if this is a record you will be as excited for as many already are.

Mazzy Star - California

90's dream pop alternative rock group Mazzy Star will return next month with their first record since 1996's Among My Swan. The album Seasons of Your Day will be released on September 24th through Mazzy Star's label, Rhymes of an Hour. So far one single has been released off of the forthcoming LP which possess a lot of the same characteristics of the band we used to love. Put your ears to the track to give it a listen and see what you think for yourself.

Haxan Cloak - The Mirror Reflecting (Part 2)

London based producer Bobby Krlic is the electronic artist Haxan Cloak who released one of the darkest albums I've heard all year. Excavation was released April 16th via Tri Angle records of this year and as the cover depicts is a doom driven record. The album sounds like it could be the soundtrack to your worst nightmare or a dramatic scene in a horror film as its relatively slow moving dark nature sounds similar to likes of Raime. I recommend this to anyone who was a fan of the Raime record or enjoys the soundtracks of horror films. Put your ears to a track of the record, "The Mirror Reflecting (Part 2)" below and see what you think for yourself.

Dent May - Born Too Late

Oxford, MI artist Dent May recently released a video for his song "Born Too Late" which was recently released on his new album Warm Blanket via Paw Tracks records on August 27th. The video is a fun spirited series of clips captured from a visit to the Neshoba County Fair in his home state of Mississippi. This listen will serve nicely as a chilled out pop summer night tune so give it a listen and see if this is a record worth checking out. 

Tony Molina - Breakin' Up

Tony Molina is a singer/songwriter from San Francisco who has recently released a single titled "Breakin' Up" off his forthcoming Six Songs EP due out in October via Matador records. The single has a power-pop rock feel to it with the guitar sounding reminiscent of Thin Lizzy even though I don't believe there are duel guitars being used on this track. The track is a fun upbeat listen which will serve nicely on a sunny afternoon.

Forest Swords - Engravings

Forest Swords a.k.a. Matthew Barnes, recently released his debut record Engravings via Tri Angle Records. The English producer has really assembled a nice piece of music creating an electronic listen that sounds something like Nicholas Jaar and Burial being infused together. There is an underlying dark edge with reverb heavy samples slowly being mixed together to create his electronic sounds. I recommend this record to the electronic listener out there who might be a fan of Haxan Cloak, Nicholas Jaar, or Holy Other. Put your ears a track off of the record below titled "The Weight of Gold" and see if this a record for you.

Metal Update

This post is set up to highlight upcoming metal releases and metal releases that have already been released this year.

KEN Mode - Secret Vasectomy

Back in March of this year the group KEN mode released a record titled, Entrench, via French Independent record label, Season of Mist. The album is a great blend of hardcore, punk, and metal. I strongly recommend giving this album a listen if you are a hardcore fan. 

Russian Circles - Deficit

Chicago post-rockers are ready to release yet another record October 29th via Sargent House titled, Memorial. The first single released of the record, Deficit lives up to the heavy guitar post rock builds that these guys are so great at creating. 

Windhand - Woodbine
Richmond, VA group Windhand is set to release their second record via Relapse records titled, Soma. The record is due out September 17th and so far has released a single titled "Woodbine" that leaves one in anticipation for Soma's release. The single is a fuzzed out sludge metal driven song with haunting bellowing vocals to create a end resulting sound of low end driving metal euphoria. 


Cleric - Gratum Inferno
Cleric is a Death Metal band out of Dallas that is about to put out their debut release, Gratum Inferno, on September 26th via Tofu Carnage Records. The band has a straight forward metal approach which creates some crunchy death metal material worth the listen.

Grave - Venial Sin
Swedish Metal band Grave have been creating metal music since 1991 and continue to melt faces yet today. Recently the group put out a new EP titled, Morbid Ascent which was put out via Century Media records back on August 26th. The EP only features three new songs out of the five that are on the record but the new songs are worth the listen. Check out the song "Venial Sin" in this music video posted up by Century Media Records.

Ninkharsag - The Essential Salts of Human Dust
Liverpool Death Metal group Ninkharsag is set to release a 7" vinyl limited to 300 titled, The Essential Salts of Human Dust, on a new Liverpool based label, Ulthar Records. According to Ulthar Records website the records are expected back from the plant soon and Ninkharsag's facebook page shows testing pressing being listened to so expect a release date in the near future. This is a great classic sounding death metal tune that is worth the listen.

Skeletonwitch - Burned From Bone
Skeletonwitch is a metal band from Athens, Ohio that has been creating metal for the past 10 years. This fall on October 29th, the band will release a new record titled, Serpents Unleashed via Prosthetic Records. The single "Burned From Bone" shows the band recording in the studio and serves as a great metal tune with the metal chromatic guitars played in a thrash like style to create the most interesting metal tune I have heard by these guys.

Mammoth Grinder - Underworlds
Austin, TX band Mammoth Grinder released their third record titled Underworlds via 20 Buck Records back on June 23rd of this year. The release is a fast paced metal record with elements of grindcore, thrash, and death metal that is much worth the listen.






Castevet - As Fathomed By Beggars and Victims
Avant-Garde Metal group Castevet is set for their Sophomore release titled, Obsian, on October 15th via Profound Lore Records. The single released from the record features a very complex structure and layering that works nicely mixed together showing the true talent of this band. This song is worth the listen purely for the extensive structure it posses and all the sounds that come through in the recording.

Hand Drawn Dracula Vicious Circles Vol. 1 EP

Canadian Independent record label, Hand Drawn Dracula put out a free EP a few years ago with a handful of artists covering each other's material titled, Vicious Circles Vol.1. The EP features the likes of Black Moth Super Rainbow, Shugo Tokumaru, and Holy Fuck. The EP is serves as a quick fun upbeat listen which I recommend to anyone willing to give it the listen. Grab the EP yourself over here at Vicious Circles Vol. 1 and see what you think for yourself.

Stone Titan - Scratch 'N Sniff

Connecticut band Stone Titan released back in June of this year called Scratch 'N Sniff which is a ripping record. This record is a must listen if you are a noise rock fan. It is a noise, sludge, doom, experimental metal record that should be listened to at a high volume. The Needle Drop (2:40 minutes in) claimed this was a interesting metal mayhem record worth listening to on vinyl as it really emphasizes the bass in recording but hurry as the vinyl is extremely limited to a run of 300. You can order the vinyl by clicking here at Scratch 'N Sniff. Put your ears to this record and see what you think for yourself.

Flavor Crystals - Ambergris

I recently came across a copy of Ambergris on vinyl by local psych rock group the Flavor Crystals. If you have not heard of these guys yet you need to check them out. They are a much overlooked local kraut rock sounding group. Knowing a member of the group personally these guys have a great background in both psych rock and kraut rock and their influences show in their sound. So if you have never heard of these dudes give them a listen and see what you think for yourself. Below Ambergris is available for listening and above is a video off of Ambergris for the song "Churchfuzz" made by a member from Black Mountain which makes for a pretty sweet homemade music video.

Andy Stott - Anytime Soon

Andy Stott recently released a new single via Adult Swim's singles program in which the network has been releasing new songs by artists available for download. The singles program is worth checking out if you haven't already featuring artists such as: Mac Demarco, Lightning Bolt, Dan Deacon, Metz, and Autre Ne Veut. You can visit the site for download here at Adult Swim Singles 2013. The single lives up to the typical Andy Stott expectations off of the last three records with the slow paced, low bass, building electronic tracks that are serve as such great listens. So turn up your stereo and zone out for around 8 minutes to the new Andy Stott. I'm sure you won't be disappointed.

Tame Impala - Are You a Hypnotist? Cover

Tame Impala recently played a show in which they covered their friends the Flaming Lips. They played "Are You a Hypnotist?" off of the Lips Yoshimi Battles the Pink Robots and I must say, did a pretty bang up job staying true to the original. Give it a listen and see what you think for yourself. Interesting side note, word on the street is that the two groups will actually be playing some sort of Halloween Blood Bash show in San Francisco this fall.

Radiohead - In Rainbows 8-Bit Version

Within the past year someone took the time to recreate Radiohead's album, In Rainbows, in 8-bit. This version serves as a very interesting listen if you're a Radiohead fan and is worth the time to sit down and listen to. The album as most know is pretty good by itself but now it could be the best soundtrack to your favorite Nintendo game. Give it a listen and see what you think for yourself.

Ejecta - Jeremiah (The Denier)

New collaboration group Ejecta, which consists of Joel Ford (Tigercity) and Leanne Macomber (Neon Indian), has released a new single titled "Jeremiah (The Denier)" off of the forthcoming debut album. The song serves as a great synth pop jam which makes one curious for what else is in store for this duo. This track serves as a great listen that will have you revisiting this song for multiple listens. Put your ears to this track and see what you think for yourself and be sure to keep your eyes out this fall for the release via Driftless records.

Crocodiles - Crimes of Passion

One of the highlight new releases from today is the new Crocodiles record, Crimes of Passion, which was released via French Kiss records. This album served as a pleasant surprise as I don't remember being so interested in these guys prior to this release besides arguably Sleepy Forever. The album has an upbeat Rock sound with a wash of reverb guitar and vocal effects fading in and out, along with the Pop Rock hooks to create a Brit Pop (actually from San Diego, just a reference point), Garage Rock, 80's Alt. sounding mixture. It might potentially wind up as my end of summer record as this one is the perfect sunny afternoon jam. Give it a listen for yourself and see what you think.

Back from a Short Hiatus...

First, I would like to apologize for the unannounced short hiatus. As the weather gets nice in the Midwest, people tend to step out of their homes and into the sunlight. While enjoying the summer months, I have not managed to balance my time in sharing music with everyone else. In order to highlight the summer releases this post is designed to highlight albums of summer 2013 so far. Take the time to check out the tunes listed below and see what records might be worth picking up for listening pleasure.

Rhye - Woman

Washed Out - Paracosm

µ-Ziq - Chewed Corners

Moderat - Moderat II

Weekend - Jinx

Pure X - Crawling  Up the Stairs

Baths - Obsidian
Love Language - Ruby Red
Quadron - Avalanche

Run The Jewels - Run The Jewels
Speedy Ortiz - Major Arcana
Queens of the Stone Age - ...Like Clockwork

Human Eye - 4: Into Unknown

Pond - Hobo Rocket
Erros Mágicos - ShambhalaJackson Scott - Melbourne
Fuck Buttons - Slow Focus

Blondes - Swisher

Zomby - With Love
 Jon Hopkins - Immunity
Gold Panda - Half of Where You Live
oOoOO - Without Your Love
David Lynch - The Big Dream

Rodan - Fifteen Quiet Years

Mouth of the Architect - Dawning

All Pigs Must Die - Nothing Violates This Nature

Deafheaven - Sunbather

People of the North - Sub Contra

William Basinski - Nocturnes
Iasos - Celestial Soul Portrait

Kevin Parker (Tame Impala) Mix

Kevin Parker of Tame Impala recently released a podcast for Modcast, a podcast series put out by record label Modular, which features a great mix of artists such as: Beck, Can, Serge Gainsbourg, Panda Bear, and Mac Demarco to list a few. If you are looking for a good mix for this does not seem like a bad one to listen to. So next time you need to clean the house, a good mix for an hour car ride, or while you are sitting at work though this Modcast on and give it a listen.

Charlie XCX - What I Like (Com Truise Remix)

British electronic pop artist Charlie XCX has recently been remixed by no other than that of Com Truise. Com Truise mixes it to bring a more interesting electronic edge to the track with his signature 80s synth mixing and pulls away from the pop edge with the added dynamics. The track is a very good listen and well worth it so put your ears to this track. You can find the remix over at Under the Influence Charlie XCX - What I Like (Com Truise Remix). Watch the original video below for referencing the original release.

Inga Copeland - Higher Ground Mixtape (Free)

Inga Copeland is somebody you might remember from her collaboration with Dean Blunt last year as Hype Williams. She recently released a free mixtape titled Higher Ground. I have not myself had the pleasure of listening to it but based off of the incredible record last year as Hype Williams you can bet this mixtape is on my radar and should be on yours. It is a quick 20 minute listen and I'm sure well worth it. Give it a listen and see what you think for yourself. You can grab it right now over at Tiny Mix Tapes Higher Ground Mixtape.

Mount Kimbie - You Took Your Time

Mount Kimbie released another single off of the forthcoming record, Cold Spring Fault Less Youth, which will be released this next Tuesday. The single, You Took Your Time, goes to show that electronic music makes great backing for rap vocals with King Krule laying down some lines over the Kimbie created track. The single is a new sound for Kimbie and is open for interpretation as it seems like fans will be on the fence over this track. Put your ears to this track and see what you think for yourself.

Boards of Canada - Reach For The Dead

Scottish duo Boards of Canada is set to release their first new set of tracks in over seven years on June 11th.    The first single released from the new album, Tomorrow's Harvest, was debuted in Japan last week on a big screen in Tokyo. Reach for the Dead, the new single shows fans that Boards of Canada have not lost their knack for creating the incredible electronic music that they do. Give the track a listen and let your ears decide what you think of the new song.

Troller - Troller

Austin band Troller is set to re-release their self titled album on vinyl in a limited run of 300 via Holodeck records. This record had a dark, drone, electronica sound to it which creates an interesting depth to tracks. I recommend this record to anyone willing to give it a listen. Put your ears to a track and see what you think for yourself.

Big Summer - Bone and Arrow

Stumbled upon this group through a friend called Big Summer which based on the little information I could discover is a new group out of Barcelona. The band has put out an EP titled, Bone and Arrow via bandcamp. I must saw these guys are worth checking out as this dream pop EP will serve you very nicely paired up with this nice sunny weather. Weather excluded, this garage rock group uses the pleasant reverb guitars an vocals to create a lush hazy mix that is very enjoyable. I highly recommend the listen so put your ears to a track and see what you think for yourself.

Dom Recording New Tracks

Indie pop rock group Dom has so far released two fantastic EPs but has not put out some new music since the release of Family of Love back in August of 2011. Recently I wondered to myself when this group would put out some new music, as so far to date I have not been disappointed yet and sure enough, much to my surprise my answer has been partially answered. Although no details have been disclosed yet on the release new music will be out soon as posted by the band earlier yesterday. The band posted a quick snippet of a track along with a hashtag hinting at a possible record title, Hyper Fantasy???. Hear the snippet over at Vine (Dom).

Savages - She Will

A new female post-punk group, Savages, out of London is releasing a new album via Matador records on May 7th titled, Silence Yourself. Their was a single released from the debut album about a month ago titled "She Will" which demonstrates the strong sound these women possess. The echoing reverb on the guitar is mixed with a quick drum beat and hard hitting female vocals creating a post-punk sounding Sleater Kinney similarity. This track is worth the listen to anyone willing to give it the time so put your ears to this track and see if this is a record you will be anticipating to hear more.

Atoms for Peace - Magic Beans

Thom Yorke's new project, Atoms for Peace debuted a new song on a French radio station titled, Magic Beans. The track serves as another great Atoms for Peace track and will be enjoyed by fans of Radiohead and Thom's solo career. Put your ears to this track and see what you think for yourself. Magic Beans

Numero Eccentric Soul: The Dynamic Label

Recording label Numero recently released a new collection titled, Eccentric Soul: The Dynamic Label. The Dynamic Label was a recording label out of San Antonio which put out a mix of recordings from different races in Texas and had tunes ranging from pop rock and R&B songs. The collection serves up as a very nice listen highlighting some great 60's tunes which will be sure to have you jamming and moving around your living room. Give this fun spirited record a listen to get a taste of what this label was doing in its time. Below is a track off of the release which has been one in high rotation for me recently. Put your ears to this track and see what you think for yourself.

Legowelt - Elementz of Houz Music (Actress Remix)

Chicago based Electronic producer, Legowelt, was recently remixed for a new 12" single by another great electronic buzz artist, Actress. Actress takes the track and gives it his signature touch, slowing things down to create a chill, ambient vibe or providing a atmospheric synth sound which creates the context of the song. Both remixes sound great and are worth the listen to any electronic listener out there. Put your ears to these tracks and see what you think for yourself.

Zomby - With Love

Electronic artist, Zomby is releasing a new record titled, With Love, which will be a double LP released on the 4AD label. Soliloquy is a new single off of the record which was released just a few days ago. The single is a great electronic tune and worth putting your ears to if you are a fan of this genre. I highly recommend this track as it served as a very enjoyable listen. Give this track a listen and see if this is a record you will be anticipating like I will be.

Hiatus Kaiyote - Tawk Tomahawk

A new group has appeared out of Melbourne called Hiatus Kaiyote. The band formed back in 2011 and has since put out their debut album titled, Tawk Tomahawk. The album is a great Indie Pop/R&B group which creates some very interesting tunes bringing in many different elements to create a soulful record worth the listen. I strongly suggest this record to anyone willing to give it a listen. The album is currently only available digitally through their bandcamp. Put your ears to the track below and see what you think for yourself.

Krill - Never A Joke

Boston band Krill is working on a new record due out June 24th titled, Lucky Leaves. According to Stereogum, last years home-recorded, Alam No Hris, was one of the most overlooked records of last year.  If you are into the garage, lo-fi music scene these guys are worth checking out. The single off of the new record shows that the group has progressed in their music since last year indicating the record should be a good listen. You can preorder the record through their bandcamp in which it states they will send you a USB drive with the new album in a mozzarella cheese ball. Put your ears to this track and see what you think for yourself.

Expensive Looks - Ansel

NY based producer, Expensive Looks, recently looked himself inside his apartment for 3 weeks listening to atmospheric records which provided inspiration for his new material. He will be releasing a new EP due out May 7th which is titled Northern Winds. The new album is not considered an atmospheric or soundtrack sounding approach but it does strongly influence the pop tracks creating a more dynamic quality attempting to create a specific feeling or mood. Give the single below a listen and see what you think for yourself. This bubbly track is worth it to anyone willing to give it the time.

Joy Orbison - Donell

London based producer, Joy Orbison, has released a new single titled, Donell. It seems unclear where the new single is from but regardless its great just to hear a new Joy Orbison track. The track has a nice simple techno background track which has an added R&B vocal mix over top and added effects throughout the song to create more depth. This track is for the electronic fan out there and might translate well for the R&B and Pop enthusiast. Put your ears to this track and see what you think for yourself.

Wild Nothing - A Dancing Shell

Returning off of a great release from last year, Wild Nothing will be putting out some new music on a 7 track EP titled, Empty Estate. The EP is being released via Captured Tracks on May 14th. This song is recommended to new wave, indie pop, and electronica listeners out there. Put your ears to this track and see what you think for yourself.

Pure X - Thousand Year Old Child

Austin band Pure X has released a single due off of their forthcoming record titled, Crawling Up the Stairs. The single gives one optimism that the record will turn out sounding great just like this track does. Its a great chilled out tune with heavy, dreamy, metallic guitar lines laid over top of the acoustic mix. Put your ears to this track and see what you think for yourself.

Kim Gordon reveals reason for her divorce from Thurston Moore

In a recent interview with Elle magazine, Kim stated the reason for her divorce from Thurston Moore back in October of 2011. According to Gordon, Moore had an affair with another women. The two did seek counselling but according to Gordon, Moore continued seeing another woman. Feel free to click the link below to read the interview for yourself. Elle.

Föllakzoid - II

Föllakzoid is a pysch-rock group out of Chile which within the past few months released their sophomore record, II, via Sacred Bones recording. The album art seems to be fitting for this release as this release is a spacious, tripped out, krautrock influenced psych release with distorted, strong reverb, playful effect driven, guitars and echoing acid-washed vocals laid over top of all of it. The album is worth the listen to the pysch-rock and krautrock fan out their. Put your ears to this track and see if this is an album worth listening to.

Braxton/Palmer - Creeper, Pt. II

Washington group Braxton/Palmer will be releasing a debut single titled Creeper next month via Ceremony recordings. The band has released a new tune, Creeper, Pt. II which has a dancy club ready sound with a echoing vocal mixture over the top. This track would be a great fit for late night in the club or maybe at the after party at your place. Give this track a listen and see what you think for yourself.

Daughn Gibson - The Sound of Law

Sub Pop artist Daughn Gibson has released a new track titled, The Sound of Law which is expected off of his new debut release, Me Moan. The song has a great outlaw country trucker sound to it which would make sense as apparently Gibson was at one point in time involved in the trucking community. So as the snow leaves our roads and we want to be on them with sun beaming down, throw this track on and give it a listen.

Junip - Junip

Jose Gonzalez's group, Junip released their self-titled sophomore record via Mute records. The record initially shows resemblance to Fields, as heard on the track, So Clear, which seems almost as though it were pulled from that record. However, the album does shift and show progression immediately following, with a shift towards more effects such as clear synth work and whistling added to tunes giving the music its new flavor. Overall I would say this is a strong release and shows progression among the group since the first record. The group continues to make good tunes and I suggest giving this album a listen to anyone willing to do so. Put your ears to this track to see if this is an album up your alley.

MGMT - Alien Days

One of the many releases issued on Record Store Day (RSD) this year was MGMT's new single, Alien Days. The single was released on a limited cassette and is the first time new music has been released since their sophomore release, Congratulations.  It sounds as though it could be a b-side to Congratulations with the same psych-indie rock feel of the last record. Put your ears to this track and see what you think for yourself.

Boards of Canada Record Store Day Releases

Acclaimed electronic group Boards of Canada have not released a new record since 2006 with the Trans Canada Highway EP. The group has claimed to be working on new material since the last release but have never released any information about the recording process so fans have been left wondering when new material will again be released for the past 7 years now. Within the past few weeks, a new statement was issued saying the group has been working on new material and even better yet, over the weekend some new material has been discovered. The group secretly planted several bits of a new recording pressed to a 12" single released as part of record store day in only a few select shops. One has surfaced in New York, and the other few found were discovered over in Europe. The recordings all have the same song with different numbers being spoken over the 20 second piece. The snippet isn't much to listen to but for fans this is huge as this is clear evidence that new material is being recorded making this release a big deal. So in other words, fans keep holding on. Here is one of the snippets available so far.

The XX - Jamie XX Edits

This last Saturday, as many of you know, was Record Store Day 2013 which means many artists and labels released limited vinyl, cassette, and CD releases. One of the many releases issued was that of The XX which released a single of the Jamie XX edits of tracks, Reconsider and Sunset. As the single goes to show, Jamie XX is a very talented electronic producer and continues to showcase his skills through the remixes of both tunes. Reconsider shows a strong Burial sounding influence which would make sense for those of you who know about the relationship with the Elliot School. This track is suggested to any XX fan and fans of Electronic music. Put your ears to these tracks and see what you think for yourself.

AV Club Undercover Season 4

For the past few years the AV Club has been carrying out a project titled, Undercover, in which A.V. comes up with a list of 25 songs which will be covered by artists who come to take part in the project. The bands chooses which song they will cover off of the list and crosses off the song until all songs have been crossed off the list creating a first come, first serve choosing basis. I was watching some of the covers completed so far and some were very entertaining and well done. I have listed below the highlight covers created thus far from the project. Check out the videos listed below to see what you think for yourself.

Frontier Ruckus

ZZ Ward

Mac Demarco

Laurel Halo - Throw

Electronic artist, Laurel Halo, is putting out a new EP in a month via Hyperdub titled, Behind The Green Door. The album still carries the same great qualities of Laurel Halo but is much more upbeat and club ready sounding in comparison to her last full length, Quarantine. This track is highly recommended to the electronic listener out there. Put your ears to this track and see what you think for yourself.

Daft Punk - Get Lucky

Electronic band Daft Punk is releasing a new record on May 21st titled, Random Access Memory. The sound possesses the same good club ready vibes that Daft Punk is known for having but features vocals by Pharrell to add a pop edge that is not typical of Daft Punk's work. Although the track features a vocal piece throughout its entirety, the song does not fall short of being an interesting listen. I recommend this track to anyone willing to give it a listen. Put your ears to this track and see what you think for yourself.

Yabby You - Deeper Roots: Dub Plates and Rarities 1976-1978

Yabby You was a popular Reggae musician in the 70's from Kingston, Jamaica. Last November, the Pressure Sounds label put out a b-side and rarities collection titled, Deeper Roots: Dub Plates and Rarities 1976-1978. The record is a great sounding reggae record which would fit as a perfect summer record. Put your ears to this track and see what you think for yourself.

Quantic & his Combo Bárbaro - Tradition In Transition

Producer Quantic put out a record with a horn section titled, Tradition In Transition, to create a Latin record which was released back in 2009. I stumbled upon a new discounted copy at work and much say this is a great sounding world music record. This record is an upbeat entertaining listen that I must suggest to anyone willing to give it a listen. Put your ears to this track and see what you think for yourself.

SZA - S

R&B electronic musician, SZA is releasing 3 EPs throughout the course of the year. Her first titled, S, has recently been released and is available for download free. Give the album a listen here and see what you thin for yourself.

Dale Earnhardt Jr. Jr. - Patterns

Indie pop rockers Dale Earnhardt Jr. Jr. digitally released a new EP titled, Patterns today. A physical vinyl copy will be available this Saturday, April 20th for Record Store Day. A track of the record, Hiding, is available for a listen down below. Give this track a listen to see what you think of the new effort from this Detroit group.

Eli & Fur - Nightmares (Hackman Remix)

I don't know a bunch of information about this song, but I do know that it is an interesting club sounding track that is worth the listen to the electronic listener out there. Give it a listen and see what you think for yourself.

Gold Panda - Brazil

Electronic artist, Gold Panda will be releasing his sophomore album on the Ghostly label, titled Half Of Where You Live. The album has an expected release date of June 11th. The single leads one to believe that Gold Panda has not lost his groove keeping the same repetitive beat and layering of samples in a slow building nature to create, a pleasant electronic track. So put your ears to this track and see what you think for yourself. 

Call Of The Void - Dragged Down a Dead End Path

Denver metal band Call of the Void released a new record via Relapse records titled Dragged Down a Dead End Path on March 19th. This metal record is quick and heavy with a hardcore, death metal sound that carries throughout the record. The high speed metal record is worth the listen to any metal fan out there. Put your ears to this track and see what you think for yourself.

Holydrug Couple - Noctuary

A release that was overlooked from January, Noctuary released by Psych rockers, Holydrug Couple via Sacred Bones is worth the 40 minute listen. This record at times sounds like Tame Impala but more drugged out with a more spacious, dreamy tone. This would make the perfect sunrise record and will fit as a nice summer record for driving along the shoreline. Put your ears to a track above to get a taste of what the record sounds like and see what you think for yourself.

Aphex Twin projects, Polygon Window and Mike & Rich

Last week I was introduced to two side projects Aphex Twin produced which are both remarkable. The first was a solo side project in which he uses the alias Polygon Window. Polygon window possesses all of the classic Aphex Twin moments where some tracks are such as Qouth are pounding, intense tracks and some tracks are mellow, spacious layered tracks such as If It Is Me. If you are like me and were unaware of this side project, you should check this out. Put your ears to the album, (Surfing on Sine Waves) below to get a taste of Polygon Window. 

The other project which I was introduced to was an Aphex Twin collaboration project with electronic artist, u-Ziq. The two teamed up for a record under the names Mike & Rich and put a record out titled Expert Knob Twiddlers. The album has a great energy to it and clearly demonstrates the fun the two had while recording the album such as heard with the burp sounds mixed into the Upright Kangaroo track or the whistling sample and weird vocal mix on Reg. This album comes highly recommended and will fit as a perfect upbeat listen. Put your ears to the first track of the album and see if this is something up your lane. 

Recent Release Highlights

Over the past few weeks there have been an abundance of good releases and this post intends to highlight some of the great pieces of music to have recently come out. If you have not listened to any of these records, be sure to sit down and give them a listen.

Bonobo - North Borders

Low - The Invisible Way

James Blake - Overgrown

The Knife - Shaking the Habitual

Kurt Vile - Wakin on a Pretty Daze

Todd Rundgren - State

Charles Bradley - Victim of Love

The Flaming Lips - The Terror

The Black Angels - Indigo Meadow

The Besnard Lakes - Until In Excess, Imperceptible UFO

DJ Koze - Amygdala

Wavves - Afraid of Heights

Palma Violets - 180

Devendra Banhart - Mala

Born Ruffians - Birthmarks

Yeah Yeah Yeahs - Mosquito

TNGHT - Acrylics

Last years UK buzz band TNGHT has released a new single titled Acrylics. The track still features the similar club like qualities that the group initially possessed with a glitchy aspect that is sure to have people in the clubs going. If you are a fan of house music, this is right up your alley. Regardless, give this track a listen to see what this buzz band is about.

El-P and Killer Mike Collaboration, Run the Jewels

El-P and Killer Mike worked together last year in putting out Killer Mike's album, R.A.P. Music which ended up being one the best rap albums for the year. El-P's album, Cancer for Cure, was not a record to be overlooked as well from last year which tells me that a collaboration record between the two can only lead to good things. The duo is going by the name of Run the Jewels and has not officially released any information besides the confirmation of their project and snippet of tune called Banana Clipper. Listen to the quick preview of the track to get a slight glimpse of the great things to come from this project.

Goat - World Music Mixtape

Voodoo Psych Rock group Goat created a mixtape of old world music encompassing great psych music from the past. The mixtape is totally worth the listen if you have the time as it really does a great job highlighting some cool psych rock. So next time you need to clean your house, are getting off work on a Friday, or just want some good jams throw on this mixtape to hear some Goat selected tunes.

Mount Kimbie - Blood and Form

UK electronic group Mount Kimbie will be releasing a new record via Mute on May 28th titled Cold Spring Fault Less Youth. If these dudes are not on your radar they should be because the way this duo takes their instruments to build layers of electronic bliss is truly remarkable. The new track features some muffled electronic tones and vocals and typically of Kimbie pieces together nicely towards the end of the track to create an interesting morph of sounds to keep your ears engaged. Put your ears to this track and get a sample of what the album will sound like. Also, below is the single titled Made to Stray which was released about a month ago and if you have not listened to it yet, you should.   

Bill Orcutt & Chris Corsano - The Raw and the Cooked

Guitarist Bill Orcutt has teamed up with drummer Chris Corsano to record a record titled The Raw and the Cooked which will be released June 1st. The avant-garde noise jam record will be limited to 500 copies so make sure to grab one when they come out if you want to get one in your hands because they will go quick. Listen to an album track and see if this is something you will be seeking out in June.

Deerhunter - Monomania

Psych rock group Deerhunter has released a single off their upcoming release, Monomania, which is due out May 7th. The single is very rough and torn down and is reminiscent of early Deerhunter with elements of production that we have seen on the last couple records creating a nice blend of Deerhunter's sounds throughout the years. Give the track a listen and see what you think for yourself.

Bibio - À tout à l'heure

English electronic artist, Bibio, will be releasing a new record titled Silver Wilkinson via Warp records and has released a single off of the new record. The track is a very pleasant electronic track with a hip-hop beat, layered with a mellow guitar line over the top, some synth work, and pop vocals. I recommend this track to electronica fans and indie rock/pop fans as I think it possess enough elements that this is in your lane. Put your ears to this track and see what you think for yourself.

Don't Bogart Me - Fraternity of Man

I pulled out my copy of Easy Rider on this sunny afternoon and wanted to share a tune off of the soundtrack release from 1969. So sit back, enjoy a drink and this tune like I did today. Put your ears to this track and listen to this old country tune from this cult classic.

Total Trash - You Don't Try

Twin Cities punk group Total Trash released a new cassette early this month titled You Don't Try and recently completed a short Midwest tour. With the new album you can tell the band has progressed. The album right off the bat has an obvious better production quality to it, still possessing that raw edge characteristic of their sound. The band is using noise in a much better fashion not having overbearing distortion which causes a mixture wash of sound but allowing for the separation of instruments to be layered throughout songs. The album has some songs re-recorded from the last album as well as some new tracks of course, which honestly stick out so much on this release as they seem to have more complexity and more structure to them. Not to say the old tunes are bad by all means but it becomes clear based on listening to this release and the last release that the band is progressing as they continue to make music. If you are a fan of punk music this local release is right up your alley and is worth the listen. Put your ears to this album and see what you think for yourself.

Gospel Gossip - Gospel Gossip

Local cats Gospel Gossip recently released a new self titled record. The band had a lot of buzz in the Minneapolis scene last year and is working hard to maintain that momentum by releasing a follow up record early this year. I think the band has some really nice tunes on this record that would appeal to a lot of listeners with sounds ranging from bands like beach house, to the distorted guitar parts characteristic of shoegaze. The reverb on the guitar rings across each track as the echoing vocals lay so perfectly over the top. All in all, it is a nice indie rock record that serves as nice afternoon listen. Check out a couple tunes off of the new record and see what you think for yourself.

Capricorn Vertical Slum - "Various Portals & Sleazo Inputs Vol. 1: Tourism"

Capricorn Vertical Slum is a Moon Glyph label cassette that is worth the listen for anyone who is looking for some tripped out psychedelic rock. The music is acid-washed, tripped out, spacey, and just flat out groovy psych music sounding as though animal collective, the flaming lips, and your neighborhood garage rock band were all thrown into a blender. This is a cool little cassette that I recommend to anyone who can stumble upon a copy. Listen to a track off of the release and see what you think for yourself.

Kendrick Lamar - Bitch Don't Kill My Vibe (Jay-Z Remix)

Kendrick Lamar has recently remixed the first track off his debut release good kid, m.A.A.d. city including Jay-Z on the track. The two pair up well together with a fast flow that seems to roll of the tongues of the two talented artists. Apparently....Jay-Z heard Kendrick a couple years ago and passed on an opportunity to work with him as he felt he needed to refine his music at that point and time. I guess Jay-Z finally saw a good opportunity to work with Kendrick with his recent success as shown with the collaboration on this on track. Put your ears to this track and see what you think for yourself.

Aerial M - Aerial M

Aerial M is a band I discovered randomly at work, intrigued by the album artwork and familiarity with label the record was released on, Drag City I decided to give it a spin. The record turned out to be a great post-rock record with interesting guitar driven tunes and great instrument layering, keeping true to the post-rock genre. After some research I found out that Aerial M is a solo project from musician David Pajo (Slint, Tortoise) explaining the solo post-rock based work. This record is worth putting your ears to and comes recommended for anyone willing to give it the listen. Listen to the track posted above and see if this is a record you would be interested in listening to.

The Silver Mt. Zion Memorial Orchestra & Tra-la-la Band - "Born into Trouble as the Sparks Fly Upward"

Recently I came across a copy of "Born into Trouble as the Sparks Fly Upward" by the Silver Mt. Zion Memorial Orchestra & Tra-la-la Band. The record was first released back on Constellation in 2001. This record is very political and non-conventional like many of their other releases. The record describes the way the band views the world using both imagery in the packaging as well as intense, dramatic built songs to encompass the harsh reality which is being presented by the group. I highly suggest this record to fans of Constellation projects or anyone looking for a very interesting dramatic listen. Sit down, put your ears to this track, and see what you think for yourself of this out-of-print Constellation release.

!!! - Sweet Life

So I know !!! (Chk Chk Chk) has been around for a little while now but I looked up the album myth takes tonight and am very interested in hearing more based off of the little I heard. The band is considered to be dance-punk and is centered out of Sacramento, CA. The band has a new record out at the end of April titled THR!!!ER. Put your ears to this track and see what you think for yourself. Will you be looking forward to a new release as well? !!! - Sweet Life

Ride - Nowhere

British shoegaze band Ride is a band I have been meaning to look into for awhile and rightfully so. I recently picked up Nowhere, knowing it was a record to listen to. This record turned out to be very enjoyable with its encompassing, distorted, hazy, metallic sounding guitar lines. Nowhere, the debut 1990 album by Ride is considered to be one of the greatest albums of shoegaze music by many and after listening to the release it becomes more clear as to why. This album is a must listen for anyone who has not previously heard this record. For those who have enjoyed this record, pull it off the old shelf and enjoy putting your ears to this record like you did the first time you heard it.