October 2014

Hot coffee.  Homemade gingerbread cookie.  Fall colors.  Tunes on in background.  Things could suck way more.

Cause I could sit here and bitch about tuition bills.  Still not sure if/when I can cut that check.

The looming basketball season is on my mind too.  How are we going to make it all events with 1 car?!  Nevermind the coaching!  Don't these kids deserve better?

And parenting?  Don't get me started.

Since when did going to the mall for a pair of jeans mean Neiman Marcus and $200?  She better wear those things 200 times.

Two menstruating women in the house is a game changer too.

"Thanks dad, I love you" can get to "Get out of my room I am done to talking to you!" all during the opening credits to Vampire Diaries.

Homework?  7th grade? you ask.

Yeah, that kinda sucks too.

But all the shit, all the minutia, is worth every ounce of sweat (and healthy amount of my tears.)

The vibrant leaves and temperate weather has served as a reminder of nature's beauty.  These are the colors you just don't see all the time.  And any reproduction, although sometimes brilliant, is never quite the same.

Tonight, in Kansas City, MO of all places, baseball will determine its champion.  One game decides it all.  For San Francisco, an opportunity to become a legitimate Dynasty.  Should they win tonight they will be crowned a 3rd time in 5 years.  *editor's note- Madison Bumgarner is amazing!!!  A better October performance I never witnessed.  Congrats SF- you are worthy Champions.

IF KC wins, we have the culmination of an extraordinary Cinderella run.  * sucks.  sorry KC

But most of you won't watch.  Last week, Game 1 of America's pastime lost in the ratings battle to Geeks (Big Bang Theory) and the undead (The Walking Dead).  The Baseball is a regional sport- and New York, LA and Boston are no longer playing.  This country is tuned out.

Too bad.

I am not one of those George Will, "baseball is life" devotees.  However, when the game, especially in October, is played right, no other sport matches the drama.  The Super Bowl is one event and the  games are too often non-competitive.  Hockey playoffs are close, with the physical intensity and rivalries.  NBA?  No.

In baseball managers are second guessed dozens of times a game.  Players need not be physical deities.  Look at Escobar, the KC shortstop.  That kid is tiny.  And think of this:  You could probably play a few innings in RF and no one would notice.  Could you line up a TE in an NFL game?  How about skate the third line for the Maple Leafs?  NBA?  No.

Missouri had a rough summer/early fall.  Each night Ferguson , MO has the potential for a race war. For a few weeks the Royals have proven a nice diversion.  Which, when you think about it, is the purpose of sports.  We can get away from all the nonsense that is out there.

Ebola is not going to kill you.  ISIS is not going to kill you.  Gluten is not going to kill you.

Its the little shit you have to concern yourself with.

And there is a lot of it.

And its fantastic.

Tonight I can cross of a bucket list band:  Wilco at the Capitol Theatre.

It will mark the end of a productive live show month.  See below clips for a small selection.  Note, Orwells and Skaters at Asbury Lanes was a great double bill.  Unfortunately I deleted those videos.  Trust me, the bands AND venue are worth a look.


Wilco "Walken" at Capitol Theatre

Tove Lo "Habits" at Webster Hall

Foxygen "Shuggie" at Webster Hall

Lemon Twigs at Webster Hall

Caveman "Easy Water" at Babys All Right

Public Access TV at Babys All Right

Icewater at Babys All Right


As of this moment, mere days from November, we still do not have a platinum record for 2014.  It would be the first time this has happened since they started keeping track of record sales.  One million units is platinum.

Taylor Swift figures to save the day when she releases 1989 next week.  Forecasts show it selling a million units in a week.

What does that say about the industry?  Or is it saying the same thing (just louder) since Napster was born and began its assault on the studio system?

I know I enjoy listening, maybe now more than ever.  But I don't BUY music.  I pay to see it, lots of it.  But I want to purge my CDs and digital streams are just fine for me, thanks.

So am I part of the problem?

I don't see it that way.

Seeing bands and promoting their efforts is how bands make their living.  Dave Grohl, who is the the midst of rolling out his new LP, recently said "We used to tour to promote the record.  Now we promote the record during the tour."

His new show, Sonic Highways on HBO, is amazing television.  In it, Grohl examines the history of rock music in America.  His exploration takes his to Nashville, Chicago, New Orleans among other cities.  Each town has a club, or engineer, or local legend that has helped provide the soundtrack to Grohl's life.  He, and his contemporaries, have helped carry on the lesson.

It is our responsibility to pass on the knowledge.


That said, here is the monthly list.  Enjoy, spread the word, and support an artist today.

Tove Lo

The Rua "Fight for What's Right"

The Rua is a brother and sisters act from Windsor, United Kingdom.  The video caught my eye a few weeks back.  Anyone have Palladia?  If so, season pass the Epic Awesome Videos morning show.  I know, the show name is super queer.  But over the three hour show (fast forwarding most of it) the producers present some unique and sometimes obscure songs.  This rallying cry from today's youth is about what you expect from kids who think Oasis' Whats the Story Morning Glory is better than Abbey Road.  Everyone thinks their generation is better than all else.  Least these kids are taking their angst and making song from it.  Beats Xbox any day.

Linus Young "Fun in the Sun"

Local duo Iris Belson (Freehold, NJ's own) and Joseph Walker are Linus Young.    I was introduced to them when they opened for Tove Lo earlier this month.  Their live act is still, shall we say, maturing.  Sharing the bill with Tove Lo did them no favors as they really aren't as "pop" as she is.  On record, and on this track in particular, they showcase groovy guitar licks and solid harmonies.  The video is a campy trip down music video history (which my Facebook page did a lot of this past month.)

Broncho "Class Historian"
 Tulsa, Oklahoma band who, among other things, will open for Billy Idol at the Beacon Theatre in January.  If that rebel can dig them, you should really give a listen.  Guitar straight from 80s John Hughes soundtracks.  Skinny ties, oversized sunglasses and Louden freaking Swain.  Easily one of my favorite tracks of the year.

Perfume Genius "Queen"

Perfume Genius is the brainchild of Mike Hadreas.  Their/his 3rd album "Too Bright", has garnered much acclaim.  Like many of the songs that appear in this space, I needed my hand held.  The Rolling Stone writer and SiriusXMU DJ Jenny Eliscu raved about it during a talk up a few weeks back.  I figured, if she likes it, I gotta pay close attention.  And I did.  This is a lesson in slow build.  Its the kind of song you just know would highlight a live act.  One day, I hope to see/hear just that.

Ty Segall "Tall Man Skinny Lady"

Segall has been doing it for a while and it seems like he puts out 2 records a year.  This month I finally got a chance to see him and it was NOTHING like I expected.   If you listen to this song it is clear Segall has some deft touch and can craft a song.  Live, he just unleashes fury.  Guitar strings be damned!  It is thrash punk California style.  Mosh pits.  Bloody noses.  Blood, sweat and tears.  On a Wednesday this old man can't handle it.  That is, I need a heads up.  Moving forward I will enjoy Segall in the comfort of my home.   You should to.

Walk The Moon " Shut Up and Dance With Me"

Let's not kid ourselves.  Walk the Moon is pop!  Like Neon Trees, Maroon 5, Train, whomever...
And that is just fine.  Their sophomore LP, Talking is Hard, will be released 12.4.14.  If this first single tells us anything, is that the quarter from Ohio knows a hook when it sees one.   Expect a spring tour- and note they are capable of good things live.

Gerard Way "No Shows"

I kinda missed the Emo days of late 90s into the 2000s.  My Bloody Valentine through My Chemical Romance totally escaped me.  Had I been dialed in I would have known who the F Gerard Way is.  First, he grew up in Summit, NJ (mere minutes away from this computer.)  Secondly, he was the voice behind My Chemical Romance.  Now, while I hated all they did, I certainly understand their significance.  I also know many who love/adore them.  When this single started making the rounds I took it for what it was worth.  When he sold out Webster Hall I paid a little more attention.  Now, I pass it on to you.  You can thank me later- or bitch slap me depending on how you feel about it.

Alvvays "Archie, Marry Me"

Toronto, pop band with an ear for nostalgia.  Their self titled debut record was released in July.  Molly Rankin's nasal twang is not offensive as you might think.  In fact, she conveys longing quite well.  A distinctive Lo-Fi gem on your otherwise nondescript radio dial.  And who is named Archie anymore??  Maybe she is thinking of the old comics?  Would 20 somethings even know that Archie???

Manchester Orchestra "Every Stone"

Atlanta based Manchester Orchestra are on their (6th) record.  Cope was released early this year and this song is a winner.  Hard driven guitars combined with Andy Hull's somewhat distorted voice make for a hard charging joy fest.

Twin Atlantic "Heart and Soul"

It comes full circle don't ya know.  These Scottish lads are influenced by My Chemical Romance and their brethren.  Emo for the 2014 set.  Lil angry.  Lil cocky.  Lil fun.

Enjoy your month folks.

Best of November, 2013

King Moonracer, Rock Star!

As I sit here, still reeling from an epic late night, words are very hard to come by.

Caveman made their way home after a successful European tour and kicked Bowery Ballroom's ass last night.  They billed it as a Christmas show and made the most of all the good tidings.  This space has been on board from the beginning and it appears others are buying in.

Their second (self titled) record is infectious.  Since its release earlier this spring I have listened to it more than any other music- and it ain't even close.  And note, this has been a great year for music.  The National, Vampire Weekend, Pearl Jam, Arcade Fire and a host of others, have released quality albums this year.  Most bloggers and music sources have been posting their "Best of" lists and I have not seen Caveman on any of them.

This is puzzling, understood and generally ok.

It is puzzling because their music (and more specifically their live performance) continues to evolve and shine.  Each show allows the listener another opportunity to find a gem.  My first introduction to them made me an "Old Friend" devotee.  It is a stand out and they absolutely killed it again last night.  Other times I was mesmerized by "My Time" (my vid from last night) or "Where's the Time?"   Last night "Ankles" was an unexpected treat.  Sure I have heard it countless times before.  But the slow build was somehow more effective last night.  Caveman's stage presence,  backed by tirelessly touring the globe, was hard to ignore.  The New York boys had themselves some quality production design too.  And that shit doesn't go unnoticed.  Christmas (NOT HOLIDAY) trees adorned the stage.  A circular projection screen featured various Christmas themes mixed with other scenes- fire, ice, a talking creature not unlike King Moonracer from Rudolph.  Good stuff.

All that pales to the visceral and emotional connection Caveman bring with their songs.  Now, with the added experience of performing two records worth of material, nearly non-stop for 4 years, things have escalated from building blocks to full on skyscraper.

It is easy to understand how they have not made it onto the mainstream dial.  For one thing, that dial can be a little, how you say, slow.  No offense to Lorde or Haim, but those ladies were never really "alt."  Their success has more to do with the mainstream liking a soft song with a hook.  Caveman are never going to find their way in that landscape.  Nor should they.  Their songs, and more importantly their willingness to jam and reach high, high decibels, is for a more sophisticated pallet.   Life can be pretty freaking busy for sophisticated.  It's darn easy to listen to Bruno Mars and Maroon 5 and sit at their concerts.  Believe me I have done it and think it's quite pleasing.

It's harder still to drag your tired ass out on a Thursday and catch a band, at 11pm!  Standing for several hours and following along (for a mind and body like mine) is taxing.  When the payoff is this good though all else is forgotten.   Getting home at 1:30am was never fun when I was younger and able to recover.  Now, forget about it.  A special shout out to my sister and her friend who travel and hour to get to my place.  They probably rolled in around 3 this morning.  And poor sis had a day of hair cuts awaiting her.  I joked with her that every customer ran the risk of exiting her salon looking like Daddy Warbucks.

Fact is,  Caveman are worth that kind of effort.  It makes sense why many folks in my suburban town look at me like I am crazy.  But it also makes sense that they are as crazy for not getting on board.

Adam Levine is great, don't get me wrong.  But you can TiVo that shit.  Each day you read about artists railing against Spotify and Pandora.  The music industry is a convoluted mess.  Maybe our only way out of it is supporting live music and all musicians trying to make it out there.  It's friggin tough.

Thankfully it appears this little Caveman has what it takes.

It's gonna be ok if ya'll don't get it.  There are many that do.  By this time next year there will be even more…  and more…  and more.  Viva La Caveman!

Caveman Band, Bowery Ballroom, 12.5.13

The month that passed had plenty of other hits and artists that caught my attention.  I will not even try to narrow my already bloated "Best of" list.  Take a look at listen to these new additions.

Remember to find me here: GTS or GTS on Twitter


"Pumpin Blood" Nonono

Sweden has long been known as a hotbed for pop and disco.  From Abba to Icona Pop those blonde, blue-eyed kids dig on some funky grooves.  This act follows suit with this catchy, whistle-centric dance number.  Vocalist Stina Wappling and a couple producers make up the band.  Would I want to see them live?  Doubtful.  But this sure is a fun song.



Passenger "Let Her Go"

The story of Brighton, England's Mike Rosenberg, nee Passenger, is a compelling and interesting one.  Should you have the time take a look here.   But if you just want a sweet, well crafted lyric performed with a understated ease just listen to the song.  I am sure this has become the angst ridden teenage girl anthem for 2013 and for good reason.  It has both the ability to make you smile and cry.

Best Coast "I Don't Know How"

LA duo Bethany Consentino (vocals/guitars) and Bobb(not a typo) Bruno (multi instrumentalist) make up Best Coast.  Their latest song is a tale of two tunes.  The first part is a slow bore.  Consentino echoes the refrain over and over in a tedious and grating manner.  When Bruno kick drums his way in the whole dynamic changes in a very positive way.  The sum is greater than the parts, much like the band members themselves.  I mean really, West Coast is Best Coast?  Um, don't think so.

Avett Brothers "Another is Waiting"

North Carolina brother Scott and Seth Avett are critical darlings.  Their homespun and folksy offerings provide a soundtrack for Main St., America.  There are banjoes.  There is wit.  There is cello.  There is harmony.  It is a mix of alt country, pure country, bluegrass, classical and most everything in between.   Their 8th LP, Magpie and The Dandelion, reached #5 on the Billboard chart so these guys are no secret.  This first single (and the sardonic video) are both gleefully addictive.  The Avett's are not for  everyone, as some friends of mine have told me, but in my mind they are as good as anyone making music today.



Sky Ferreira "You're Not the One"


Before researching I was unaware Ms Ferriera is a former model.    And her arrest over the summer (drugs with Diiv frontman and boyfriend Zachary Cole Smith) was not on my radar either.  Nor was her nude album art.  Ok you got me.  I knew way more about this young lady prior to her LP release than most alt ingenues.  But let the record state she is more than just a pretty face (and breasts.)  This single is a glorious throwback to 80s pop with more edge than Miley or Rhianna.  Fun stuff.

Fitz and The Tantrums "Walker"

Earlier this year I caught this LA act on Daryl Hall's excellent show.  It seemed like a perfect fit.  Michael Fitzsimmons has his ear firmly on Motown and 50's and 60s rhythm and blues.  He and his Tantrums bring an up tempo, positive vibe with a nod to pop not unlike the glory days of Hall and Oates.  It's all about good hooks and fun beats.  Oh, and Fitz and his leading lady Noelle, have voices Berry Gordy would approve of.  Note, this is the second track on the list showcasing whistling.  Is a remake of Walk Like an Egyptian next?

Tennis "Mean Streets"

Denver husband and wife act Tennis are important for a few reasons.  One, they have shared the Fat Possum label with aforementioned Caveman.  They released their latest record, Small Sound, through Communion.  On the record we find out why else they are important- they make solid music.  Small is an apt description of their sound when referring to Alaina Moore's hushed vocals.  The overall vibe is far bigger though.  This tune relies on a steady and bone shaking bass line that is hard to ignore.  Tennis anyone?

Kate Nash "Fri-end"

Fiery English songstress Kate Nash comes from a long line of Brit bad girls.  If I cared to research I am sure she has been compared to Lily Allen, Amy Winehouse and Adele.  She released her third LP, Girl Talk, earlier this year.  It came and went without much fanfare in these parts.  Our loss.  Take a listen and fall in love with both the song and the artist.  She has staying power- unlike Ms Winehouse for instance.

Haerts "Wings"

There is a lot going on with the English, German and US band called Haerts.  They are still finding their way and recently released their first EP.  They formed just last year so who can predict what happens in the immediate future.  Will an LP come out?  Will they hit some big stages?  Will they even stay together?  Guess you could ask those questions about all the acts on this list.  Enjoy the song and let's all play the waiting game.  So far, so good.

Cut/Copy "Walking the Sky"

The Aussie synth powerhouses new record, Free Your Mind, is another one of those records I find myself listening to over and over.  They will embark on a huge tour early next year that includes a NYC trip I am stoked to be attending.  Their mix of arena pop and synth anthems are stand outs in a World of weak EDM and lesser, but more popular talents of similar sensibilities.  They are the high water mark in the category and this particular song is pure joy.

And for the record, still can't get enough of  "We Exist", "Normal Person", and "Afterlife" from Arcade Fire's amazing new record.


and for more info on Caveman they have been written about extensively here.  take a look:

Caveman review 5 on 5 at Ace Hotel

Caveman from CMJ 2011

Caveman debut record release Mercury Lounge 2011

5 at 5, Caveman at Ace Hotel, NYC

There are plenty of cool boutique hotels in NYC.  The Ace Hotel NYC on 29th St is among them.  What makes it all the cooler, (in addition to Stumptown Coffee Roasters adjacent to it and a badass lobby with ample space to power up your device or simply lounge)  is a new concert series called 5 at 5.  The idea is simple:  Bring a band on at 5pm sharp.  Said band plays 5 songs.  You go about the rest of your evening commute.

Yesterday NYC's Caveman brought a little love to the coffee swilling, art loving, Steve Jobs worshipping crowd.  Funny seeing/hearing the boys play "Old Friend" and "My Time" in an acoustic set.  But once you get over the initial longing for big, thrashing sounds it is apparent those songs, and some newer tracks like "Easy For You" and "Wasted Time", are just as effective stripped down.

Their debut album CoCo Beware may not have gotten the play it deserved.  However these guys are keeping things positive and seem very confident in their second album (which they are currently recording.)

The gentlemen will be headed to Austin for SXSW in the Spring which should coincide with their sophomore LP release.

This band should be on your radar and one can only hope 2013 will be their coming out party.

For more info on this event and further 5 on 5 shows take a peek at MTV's report here:  MTV The Hive on Caveman

And if you ever find yourself on 29th between 5th and 29th do check out Ace and Stumptown.  Worthy for the ambience and scene alone.

Caveman Band, Ace Hotel 10/3/12