Fitz and The Tantrums- "More Than Just A Dream"

Tracklist:

1. Out Of My League
2. Break The Walls
3. The Walker
4. Spark
5. 6AM
6. Fools Gold
7. Keepin' Our Eyes Out
8. Last Raindrop
9. House On Fire
10. The End 
11. Get Away
12. MerryGoRound

So while driving home from work the other day, I heard a song on the radio called, 'Out Of My League'. Not knowing what band it was drove me crazy the entire way home. I had to look it up! Sure enough it's by a band called Fitz and The Tantrums. I've heard of them, but not their actual music. After hearing a couple of their songs on YouTube, I noticed that they have a dance, pop, soul thing going on. Which was a different change of pace then whats on the radio today. While doing my investigating, I discovered that they are based in Los Angeles and are currently signed to Elektra Records. If this band rings a bell, you might recognize them by their hit single 'Moneygrabber' and off their new album, 'More Than Just Just A Dream', and 'Out Of My League'.

The album itself is really catchy. It has claps, whistling, dancey beats, and the melodies are sung playfully. The vocals, I noticed, by Michael Fitzpatrick are some what similar to Brandon Flowers of The Killers. Noelle Scaggs though, just amazing. Of course she has her chorus lines and backing vocals, but her voice definitely stands out in their tracks.

However, their songs didn't stick out to me as much as their two most popular ones right now, which are "Out Of My League" and "The Walker". The other songs were very danceable and had the synthesizer play a good role in each song. Some tracks where more soulful than the others, and well as how poppy it was. Maybe it's just me, but they didn't really hook me into their music as other artists/bands usually do. I still think they are a pretty good band. Just not my style.

Twenty One Pilots Show Review 11/7

The Independent in San Francisco


It was a beautiful day in SF when I arrived. Although I ended up getting at the venue 2 hours early, there was already people hanging out in line for the Sold Out 21 and over show. So I figured I might as well do the same if the line has already started forming.

Waiting in line that long wasn't so bad, I had my boyfriend to keep me company and plus there was a lot of interesting people in line and passing by. But the last half hour was the longest because the sun was going down and it started to get cold.

When we finally got in I noticed that the venue has a really long hallway with portraits of bands and artists that had performed in the past. Then, it opens up to the floor with the stage to your left and a bar behind you and benches are lined up on the right, not really leaving enough room for people to sit down. It's really small but its a good venue.

The first band or artist, I should say, was Sirah. If you are a Skrillex fan, you might know her form the song "Bangarang featuring Sirah." Other than that though, I have not heard any of her songs. She wasn't what I expected, which could be good or bad. Her genre is kind of a pop, hip-hop vibe. She puts on a good show and has some good stage presence, but I bet her recordings are better than the live version. Not sure if I really liked it or not.

Robert Delong was next up. Now, this was my second time seeing him live.The first time was at Sasquatch Music Festival in May of  2013. After that I became a fan and bought his album. He's got a wide range of different gadgets and instruments that he uses in his music. It like dance, techno, but one you see him perform, you can see how talented he really is. I think knowing his songs the second time definitely helped my Robert Delong experience.

Now for the headliner! Twenty One Pilots! They used a variety of different masks for their set. But my god, what a great show! Not only do they have great stage presence but they performed their instruments so greatly. Tyler and Josh are some talented mo'fos. The entire shoe was filled with the guys jumping off their instruments, "acting like 6 year olds", according to Tyler as he instructed the crowd to dance like. But every song, they got the crowd moving. My favorite part though and what amazed me the most, was that on their last song, they both stood on top of the crowd and they each played a bass drum! It was pretty freaking awesome.

I would love to see these dudes again, I have a feeling their going to be big,

Twenty One Pilots "Vessel"

Tracklist:

1. Ode To Sleep
2. Holding On To You
3. Migraine
4. House Of Gold
5. Car Radio
6. Semi-Automatic
7. Screen
8. The Run and Go
9. Fake You Out
10. Guns For Hands
11. Trees
12. Truce

 

So, I have been hearing talk about a band named Twenty One Pilots. I didn't have the slightest idea of what genre they were or what they sound like. After looking up their music videos on Youtube, I decided, I HAVE to buy and review this album!

I discovered that there's only 2 members of Twenty One Pilots, Tyler Joseph (vocals, synths, piano, and ukulele) and Josh Dun (drums). They are pretty different than anything I've heard. Considering now-a days, you can't just label one specific genre to a band or artist. But man are these guys creative. They managed to mix pop-rock, hip-hop, and dance music together. They transition so well to pop-rock to hip-hop and back again. So much so that they were signed to Fueled By Ramen in 2012. The same label that has the bands, Fun., Paramore, and Panic! At The Disco. Then this wondrous album I have listened to was created in early 2013, they call it "Vessel".

I've come to realize that Tyler has a great voice and it's very melodic and there's also meaning behind his lyrics. Each track is different in it's own way. The tracks with the great dance beats make you want to jump up and down, especially when there is a build up leading to it. Not every track on the album has some crazy raps in them, some songs are dance songs with rap in the middle, and others are pop-rock songs with rap in the beginning and end, and the other OTHER songs are just melodic vocals with piano, ukulele, and drums. But my favorite tracks were however, Holding On To You, Car Radio, Semi-Automatic, and Guns For Hands.

Listening to every part of this album makes me have some mad respect for the duo. The way the songs are put together and Tyler's lyrics make me think that this just isn't a band, that it's more than that. This album is different than anything I've listened to. Okay, so some of the pop-rock parts in the songs remind me of some other pop bands, but the band itself, as a whole is original. I think I found an album and a band that I'm going to be listening to for a while.

Arctic Monkeys- "AM"

Tracklist:

1. Do I Wanna Know?
2. R U Mine?
3. One For The Road
4. Arabella
5. I Want It All
6. No.1 Party Anthem
7. Mad Sounds
8. Fireside
9. Why'd You Only Call Me When You're High?
10. Snap Out Of It
11. Knee Socks
12. I Wanna Be Yours

It's here! It's here! I've been patiently waiting for the new album, "AM", from the brilliant UK band, Arctic Monkeys. Can you tell I am a fan? If you haven't heard at least a little of these dudes, you are music deprived. I'm sorry, but someone had to tell you. But really, the music that these guys create is more alternative rock. Although, this album has got some funk bass lines and some rock and roll guitar. I've also noticed that, "AM", has some melodic backing vocals in every song. I found out, Josh Homme, from Queens Of The Stone Age did in fact help with some vocals and a bit of the album as well.  It's a nice touch and different way to go from their previous albums. The backing vocals kind of remind me of the band, The Black Keys. From the vocals, guitar solos, to the way the songs are set up.

"Do I Wanna Know?" is the first track, and I like that this is the song they chose for the introduction to the album. It's got a hard steady beat throughout the song. But it's slow paced, like one of those 80's rock and roll bands when the guitar and drums are in sync with the same beat and rhythm.

"R U Mine?" is their second track and also one of my favorites. It's faster, and give you the chance to rock out. I love how vocalist/songwriter, Alex Turner, sing the lyrics so they are set up to fit in the song. For example, he will sing each word in the song, and they in the chorus it will jumble them all together, which makes the lyrics bounce. If that makes any sense? Haha. The guitar riff and solos in this song also remind me of, again, The Black Keys and Wolfmother for some reason. I think it's the tone of the guitar.

"One For The Road" and "Why'd You Only Call Me When You're High?" are one of the funky songs that I liked. These songs also have the bouncy lyrics, with the funky bass lines and drum beats. "One For The Road" did in fact have a tambourine in the chorus, I have no idea why that's so cool to me. As I listen to the lyrics to this album, I noticed that the melodic words that are sung by Alex, are words of heart break. Poor Alex, you'll be okay buddy! "Why'd You Only Call Me When You're High?" is a good heart break song, but it all ended with a crash! ....Symbol.

"Arabella", "I Want It All", and "No.1 Party Anthem" all in order, weren't my absolute favorite tracks on the album. But they were still good songs. "Arabella" is a good rock song, it's got a slow start and loud 80's feel chorus, they back to slow paced for the 2nd verse. "I Want It All" had the same guitar chords throughout the song, so it didn't "wow" me. But the guitar solos were excellent. "No.1 Party Anthem" sounds  like a slow love ballad, its mainly drums and piano. Sadly, he's singing about broken love.

"Mad Sounds" and "Fireside" have different tones in each track. They each had piano but not just any ordinary piano, it's what I call, "church piano". That's pretty much the only way I can describe it. "Mad Sounds" is slower than "Fireside" but it's a good hangout song. "Fireside" has the heartbreak lyrics again, but has a fast drum beat and what sounds like patting in the background throughout the song.

"Snap Out Of It" is a good singalong with claps and drums with the same beat, and the piano has the same tempo as each of them. In the middle of the track, the drums, claps, and vocals are the only ones playing. I love it when bands do that. It builds my suspense and makes everything so epic.

"Knee Socks" is one of those songs that paints a picture in your head with the lyrics. The guitar bounces around as the lyrics are being sung. The steady drums of the song remind me of yet another band, The White Stripes. Sorry!

"I Wanna Be Yours" is a great song to end the album with. It's got a slow start with an echoing guitar. The lyrics are so lovely, it's a good love song. 

"I wanna be your vacuum cleaner

Breathing in your dust

I wanna be your Ford Cortina

I won't ever rust

If you like your coffee hot

Let me be your coffee pot

You call the shots babe

I just wanna be yours"

How cute is that? Maybe, it's just because I'm a romantic, and a girl haha.

Yes, I know. I name dropped a few bands here and there. But, that was only to get you to know what I'm talking about. When it comes down to it, Arctic Monkeys have a sound all their own. Even though I wasn't crazy about a few songs, I still think that this was a really good album. It's not because I'm a fan either! Go buy this album now! NOW I TELL YA!

Arctic Monkeys "Suck It And See"

Tracklist:

1. She's Thunderstorms
2. Black Treacle
3. Brick By Brick
4. The Hellcat Spangled Shalalala
5. Don't Sit Down 'Cause I've Moved Your Chair
6. Library Pictures
7. All My Own Stunts 
8. Reckless Serenade
9. Pile Driver Waltz
10. Lover Is A Lazerquest
11. Suck It  And See
12. That's Where Your Wrong

Okay so I know this isn't exactly a new album from the Arctic Monkeys, but it is their latest! They're new album "AM" is supposed to be released in September of this year, woot woot!

If  you haven't heard of this UK based band, you should check out a cou ple of their hit songs, "Flourescent Adolescent", "I Bet You Look Good On The Dancefloor", and "R U Mine?" They are a good rock band , some alternative, and rock'n'roll mixed as well. They're signed to EMI, Warner Bros. Records, and Domino Recording Company. Anyways, on with the album.

The first track, "She's Thunderstorms", sounds like one of those cheesy high school bands that play that one slow songs at prom. It is slow, but it's also has a good rock beat to it. The second track, "Black Trecle", is a good hangout song. It doesn't have a fast paced, rocking out chorus, if that makes any sense. But it is a good alternative song. "Brick by Brick" is the third track and my favorite song. It has a really good rock vibe. You absolutely have to rock out to this song, bob your head and everything. Though I've noticed that this album has a handful of slower songs. As far as, a steady beat throughout the song and spoken lyrics. Only a few of the songs are jamming rock songs. Those ones were my favorite. "Library Pictures" was one of them, sadly, it was only 2 minutes and 22 seconds. =(  Don't get me wrong, I do like slow songs, but Arctic Monkeys are so good at jamming out, they make me want more. Every time I hear a slow song, I'm just waiting for a build up. "Reckless Serenade" and "Lover Is A Lazerquest" are one of the slow songs but they do have some good beats in there.

To be honest, as a fan, I wasn't amazed by this album, but it's alright. I had my share of jamming out and just sitting, moving side to side to the beat and lyrics of the songs. It's worth the listen. But don't expect any hardcore rock and roll like I did.

Summer In Siberia- Self Titled

Summer In Siberia

 

 

 

 

 

 

Track List:

1. Spectres
2. The You In Focus
3. Already Heard
4. Someday I'll Procrastinate
5. Wyoming Portal
6. Eyes Glued
7. Clouds On A Sunday
8. Ice Pose
9. Filler Song #9
10. Studio 8H
11. Easy To Forget

 

 

 

 

So I came across this awesome band, called Summer In Siberia, out of nowhere...literally. It started at the 2013 Sasquatch Music Festival in Quincy, WA. And, no they did not perform at the festival. But fortunately enough, I met the singer and keyboardist, Justin Hynes of Summer In Siberia. The band is from Spokane, WA, and they're not currently signed to a label. Hear that record companies?! So needless to say, I was handed their self titled album and asked to review it.

The first track on the album is called "Spectres". Which surprised me, because I had no idea what genre of music the band was. It has an electro-pop vibe, with the electric drum set, simple keyboard riffs, and the occasional guitar thrown in. I know how this sounds while you're reading this, like one of those bands that records their album in a closet. Well, this isn't the case! These guys have an album cover and everything! Anyways, the second track is, "The You In Focus", which was again a dance song, not crazy, but an easy rock yourself side-to-side dance song. "Already Heard" was, one of the slower songs to the album. It's got those keyboard riffs, and the electric drums. But one thing I do really like about this band, that I've noticed, is the vocals. The vocals are melodic, but not over powering. Just simple, and that's what I like, most of the time. The fourth track is called, "Someday I'll Procrastinate". It starts out with an upbeat feel, then goes out to a jam session for the chorus. The track is a really good relaxing song. The next few tracks called, "Eyes Glued" and "Clouds On A Sunday" are one big jam session. Just instruments playing left and right. Gotta love musicians rocking out, right? Although, "Eyes Glued" is a bit harder than "Clouds On A Sunday" but they both work. There's a track on the album called, "Studio 8H". All I wrote for that song in my notes is, super electronic dance jam. So there you go. "Ice Pose", "Wyoming Portal", "Filler Song #9", and "Easy To Forget" are the good hang out songs of the album. Actually, scratch that, ALL of the songs on the self titled album are good hang out songs.

 

 

I really liked this album, especially because I had no idea what to expect. I think my two favorite songs so far are, "Spectres" and "Eyes Glued". Those songs are more technical, to me at least. For some reason I like that sort of thing. But it's all good stuff. I would definitely recommend buying their stuff on iTunes. Or at least take a listen!

 

Facebook: www.Facebook.com/SummerInSiberia

Website: www.SummerInSiberia.BandCamp.com

 

 

 

Vampire Weekend "Modern Vampires Of The City"

Track List:

1. Obvious Bicycle
2. Unbelievers
3. Step
4. Diane Young
5. Don't Lie
6. Hannah Hunt
7. Everlasting Arms
8. Finger Back
9. Worship You
10. Ya Hey
11. Hudson
12. Young Lion

The lovely Vampire Weekend has released their new album in mid-May called, "Modern Vampires Of The City." You might know them from their other popular songs, "A-Punk", "Cousins", and "Holiday". Vampire Weekend has developed their indie-rock sound in their hometown of New York City and are currently signed to XL Recordings.

 

The first track on the album is called, "Obvious Bicycle". It's an odd way to start off an album. Why? Well, because its a really slow song, with vocals and piano for about 4 minutes. The song isn't bad, but you would think VW would place it somewhere else on the album. Then it moves on to a more upbeat and cheery song, it's called "Unbelievers". Next it goes to "Step", which has kind of a techno vibe and a soft beat and vocals throughout the song. After that, the album goes from fast to slow, to both. How is that possible? I have no idea. From crazy songs like "Diane Young" to "Hannah Hunt", "Ya Hey" and "Hudson", which pretty much made me feel like I was watching a scary movie, the music sounded straight out of a horror film with a story attached to it.

 

But honestly, the whole album was all over the place. Each song is way more different than the next one, from the instruments, the beats, and the genre itself. All of it is completely random, like, you don't really know which way the songs are going to go. The album isn't bad, it just wasn't what I expected, it through me off guard. It's slightly different than their past albums. It's just....weird. You just have to listen to it a couple times to get down with the madness!

We Are Augustines, now known as Augustines!

My recent discovery! My boyfriend got their album, "Rise Ye Sunken Ships" on clearance at Amoeba Music in San Francisco. And I cannot stop listening to this album, for all you indie fans out there. This is the band for you. We took Augustines album to road trip to Sasquatch Music Festival 2013. We listened to this album non-stop, from morning to night. Of course, we did have other music to play, but when we kept losing signal for the iPod Radio, we just listened to Augustines. And now every time I hear one of their songs it brings back so many great memories or the road trip there and back. Weird enough though, you would think we would be getting sick of the whole album driving 14 hours there and back with that album playing. But it hasn't yet. At all.

I know this isn't an album review, and probably doesn't give you a taste of what the band sounds like. But the album does give me happy memories of my Memorial Weekend of 2013.

And just so I'm not cheating you, here's one of my favorite songs and the 1st track of the album "Rise Ye Sunken Ships", entitled 'Chapel Song'!


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jDVo57p8EnI

Also, here's their newest single, 'Cruel City'!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NrpFddBWMrw




P.S. Their new album is coming out February 4th 2014....AND I'M SO EXCITED.

A Day To Remember Show Review @ The Warfield in San Francisco 4/10

When I approached The Warfield, there was a line wrapped around the entire block. Not in a very good neighborhood, but that that didn't stop anyone from going. Homeless people made the wait not so long by talking to themselves or other people. They told jokes and stories that made people laugh. Next thing I know, me and boyfriend are in front of the line next to get into the venue.

The entire venue is red and gold with balcony seats. There's a painted mural on the ceiling and it's very elegant. But the type of venue wasn't so good for a hardcore show. Kids are pushing and dancing so close together. So there was no room to dance and mosh. Everyone was excited and waiting for the show to start.

Issues was the first bands to perform, with hardcore screaming, keyboards, and techno dancing. I've never head of them, but after their set, I really like what I heard. They really got the crowd moving with breakdowns in every song, you couldn't just stand still. Plus it was cool to see the lead singers help the crowd surfers get down and high fived them after hey got to the stage.

One thing that I think is important when playing a show, connecting with your fans. Of Mice and Men included the crowd in every song they played. From holding the mic out for the fans to sing, to telling them to jump and making them love the band even more. I haven't really listened to Of Mice and Men but I can say that I became a fan, their stage presence and devotion to their fans is really great see. The entire venue was vibrating. Literally went out with a bang. Metal synchronized head banging is what I got from the show, haha.

A Day To Remember was next and the fans were surprisingly patient. Keeping themselves occupied by the songs that they played during sound check. But as soon as the lights turned off, everyone immediately jump out of their seats and cheered. ADTR started off their set with their new song, "Violence" on their up coming album. After that they moved to their most recent songs off of "What Separates Me From You" and then moved to "Homesick" and then, "For Those Who Have Heart". Literally moving from most recent albums to albums they played back in 2007. Non-stop cheering and hand in the air. At one point, Jeremy (lead singer), told all of the guys to take off their shirts and swing them around...so that's exactly what they all did. Haha I loved singing, dancing, and head banging. Jeremy had some small talk with the crowd and told us how rad we all were. They even played a new track off their new album that HASN'T BEEN RELEASED YET. FUCK YEAH. Also, they played a song that they haven't played from their album Homesick, and San Francisco was the first city to hear it live. Take that to the other 49 states! The show overall had a lot of energy and everyone was constant cheering., crowd surfing, head banging, and jumping. And it all ended with an encore!

I had a great time, and I'm proud to say that this is my third time watching these dude rock out. Third times the charm I guess. Thanks for reading, now I'm going to go massage my neck from the head banging!

Paramore- "Paramore"

 

 

 

Track List:

1. Fast In My Car
2. Now
3. Grow Up
4. Daydreaming
5. Interlude: Moving On
6. Ain't It Fun
7. Part II
8. Last Hope
9. Still Into You
10. Anklebiters
11. Interlude: Holiday
12. Proof
13. Hate To See Your Heartbreak
14. (One Of Those) Crazy Girls
15. Interlude: I'm Not Angry Anymore
16. Be Alone
17. Future

 

 

Finally, Paramore has released their self titled album on April 9th of this year. They are still signed to Fueled By Ramen and have been since 2004. Ever since their release of "Brand New Eyes" in 2010, it's been a long ride for band member, Hayley Williams and her former band mates Josh and Zach Farro. Sadly, these guys are no longer a part of Paramore. But that story is for another article!

 

Paramore's new self titled album is a nice change for them. I think they needed it. Nothing says starting fresh like having 17 tracks! Starting off with the first track, "Fast In My Car". It's got a very bouncy start and the chorus is when you can hear the old Paramore. Then "Now" and "Grow Up" has different angles, new vibes to the songs. Like they're not playing around.

 

The album gives you a break from all the alternative-rock-ness and soothes your ears to Hayley's voice and a soft ukulele. The songs are titled "Interlude: Moving On", "Interlude: Holiday", and "Interlude: I'm Not Angry Anymore". They are only a minute and 30 seconds long but you can tell Hayley has matured and she explains she's over all the drama. Good for you Hayley!

 

I have noticed that this album they are playing around with different styles of music, from tracks like, "Still Into You", to "Last Hope", to "Ankle biters", to "Hate To See Your Heart Break". Hayley sounds really happy in each song and you can tell she's having fun with it. "Be Alone" brings me back to the old Paramore, minus the backing vocals.

 

I would love to tell you that I have a favorite track, but I'm not quite there yet. But what definitely stick out to me is all the Interlude songs. Something about the ukulele gets me...Honestly, if you're a Paramore fan, you will stay a Paramore fan with this album. I really loved it. From the drums all the way to the vocals.  The beat, rhythm, melody, it's all there. If you think that they have completely changed, I disagree. This album is telling their fans that they are still here and a little drama isn't going to break up the mighty Paramore. This is a grown up Paramore.

Atlas Genius "When It Was Now"

Track list:
1. Electric
2. If So
3. Backseat
4. Trojans
5. Through The Glass
6. On A Day
7. Centred On You
8. Don't Make A Scene
9. All These Girls
10. When It Was Now
11. Symptoms

 

If you're looking for the same old pop dance songs, with the over played artist that says the same chorus over and over, then you're looking for the wrong band. Atlas Genius isn't anything that's on your local pop radio, This electro-pop-dance-something-else-to-hyphen-band lets you break out from your usual genre. It's kind of refreshing actually. These 3 guys are from DOWN UNDAA! Okay...fine, they're from Australia. They are signed to Warner Bros. Records and have released their first debut album, "When It Was Now".

 

The first track titled, "Electric", caught me off guard, in a good way. But it was crazy how much of an 80's flashback it was. When you think of 80's pop, you have "Electric" by Atlas Genius. The track title is exactly how the song is, it's electric! The next two songs titled, "If So" and "Backseat" were more laid back than the rest of the songs on the album. They used less instruments and used only a touch of the synthesizer/keyboard. Their next song, "Trojans", is one of their most popular songs. If you haven't heard it, it's really catchy. "Trojans" is not like the other songs on the album, it's more indie rock. CAUTION: THIS SONG WILL GET STUCK IN YOUR HEAD. Anyways, I continued to listen to song after song and I noticed that no two songs are the same sound. Each track was softer, more complex, louder, or more danceable than the others. Which made me think that theses guys aren't messing around. On their website, Keith (vocals/guitar) said, "Our goal is to write songs that we love and hope they connect with other people too." Which brings me to one of their other "love" songs, "All These Girls". When I first heard it I thought, "Awe, how cute. There's no other girls like her!" But when I really listened, that's when I noticed what was really happening in the song. But, you'll have to listen or yourself! Also, like any other new band, some of their lyrics are a little sad, but that's what makes good music right?

 

"When It Was Now" is one of those albums you just hangout and relax to. Or maybe use it on your next road trip? Pretty good album I'd have to say, check it out on their website http://www.atlasgenius.com/

 

 

 

The Swellers-Running Out Of Places To Go

When I think of The Swellers, I immediately think, "these guys define pop-punk music." They have been signed to labels like, Fueled By Ramen and Paper and Plastick Records. But, their album, "Running Out Of Places To Go", was recorded AND produced by themselves. How awesome is that? This five song EP is a good choice to get your pop-punk fix.

The first track called, "Hands", caught me off guard with Nick's voice. I wasn't really into it at first, but the more I listened, the more I noticed his voice is a little rough but also melodic, which I liked. By the time the third song came on called "Bad For Me", I decided, I like this band. Each track is a simple chord to chord song, with some guitar riffs thrown in. What really impressed me though, was Jonathan's drum beats. The punk drumming was excellent and it really tied together each song. "Running Out Of Places To Go" is also the name of the fifth track on the album, and my favorite one. On this track, Nick's voice really comes out and you can hear it really well, also Jonathan's drums are at a slow beat, but it all works perfectly. Hmm... I have a feeling there's a reason why this EP is named after this song...

Overall, these guys are all really talented musicians and I'm really glad I came across them. I'd have to say that "Running Out Of Places To Go" is pretty awesome and it should be a whole record instead of just an EP. Yeah, that's right. I said it.

 

 

Track List:

1. Hands
2. Let Me In
3. Bad For Me
4. Making Waves
5. Running Out Of Places To Go

Photos from Take Action Tour

Take Action Tour Feb. 26th @ Warfield, San Francisco.

Mindflow

Crown The Empire

 

 We Came As Romans

 

 

 The Used

The Used Show Review

February 26th @ Warfield, San Francisco, CA.

What started as a beautiful sunny day in San Francisco, quickly turned into a chilly evening. Young teenagers wearing their converse shoes, tights, and neon colored hair lined up outside The Fillmore on Feb. 26th for the Take Action Tour. Including bands like Mindflow, Crown The Empire, We Came As Romans, and of course The Used. My boyfriend and I anxiously waited in line with the other teenagers and adults, but the cold started hitting me when my hands and feet started to go numb. Luckily The doors opened at 6:30pm and we booked it inside. Walking into The Fillmore was a great experience. First thing I noticed was that the walls are a deep purple color. I didn't notice that the building was actually 2 stories tall. The 1st floor had the bathrooms, bar area, and a wide open space with a big square of hard wood floor in the middle. Towards the back of the first floor is the stage, it's not too big, kind of small really. When I first saw it, I imagined that the band members wouldn't really be able to move around much. Then we headed up stairs, the walls in the stairway had posters top to bottom of previous artists/bands/comedians that have performed there. Then, on the right was another bar area with café tables and a small place for café performances. On the right was again, a smaller bar area with every wall covered in music posters. It was really freaking cool to look at. There were about 5 tables spread out and on the left side, then on the right they have about 4 balconies that over look the stage. Great view also! On the ceiling of the entire venue, had around 6 chandeliers just hanging above the main floor. This is by far the coolest venue I've ever been to.


Mindflow was the first band to perform. As they came on, the crowd echoed with cheers and plenty of screaming. I had no idea who they were or what their music sounded like, and to be honest, it caught me off guard. Mindflow has a bit of a metal sound to them, like the band Disturbed. I'm not particularly into the metal genre as it is, but they weren't that bad. I also found out that they from Brazil. Their stage presence was okay, and they had a some energy. But there was something I didn't like about them. Then I heard it.. The lead singer shouted out to the crowd, "How are you doing San Antonio?!" Um WTF MAN YOURE IN SAN FRANCISCO?! Yes I know, I only see that stuff in movies or TV. But it really happened. So instantly he knew that he messed up and the crowd got quiet. He started singing, San Francisco ( Be Sure To Wear Flowers In Your Hair) by Scott Mckenzie. Still the crowd was not moving. Talk about awkward. After that I think the crowd loosened up and started dancing a little bit. The ending song was a really hard metal song but sadly, there were no mosh pits. :[

The second band was Crown The Empire. My boyfriend was especially excited to see these guys. Although we did hear rumors that they weren't so good live. But after hearing the first song, those were only rumors. They had crazy energy flowing from the stage to the floor. The entire venue was vibrating. From jumping, dancing, and constantly moving. It was nearly impossible for me to get a good picture of any of them because they moved around so much! Which wasn't a bad thing. Fans were loving CTE too. Mosh pits constantly broke out throughout their songs. By the end of the last song, literally every person was jumping, dancing, mosh pit-ing, singing, and hands raised above the crowd. I was really impressed.
Then there was We Came As Romans. I think that they are another really good scream/hard core band. They jumped and danced with their fists held high. Lead on a few head bangs here and there. And kept you watching during their set. I think they have really good stage presence and really know how to interact with the crowd. Every song there was at least 1 kid going crazy in a mosh pit, which was fun to watch. In the middle of their set, they stopped and thanked everyone for coming out, and I could really tell how much they really adore their fans. But overall they sounded pretty dang good to me!
Finally, the band I was waiting for, The Used. I was right in front of the stage minutes before they came on with my camera in hand, and I was thinking how cool it is that when I was in middle school, I remember singing all the lyrics to "In Love And Death" and I'm going to be inches away from all of them. I was ecstatic to say the least. Their opening song was "Listening" and every person in the crowd was singing. It was a great feeling. I couldn't barely hear Bert's or the crowds voice singing a long, just the music. Which can give you a better idea of how close I was to the stage. Bert Mcracken, lead singer, danced side ways, backwards and all around, the stage. The fans loving every minute of it. Song after song you can just hear the voices of the fans singing their lyrics echo through the walls. It was a feel good time and really brought back memories.

This being my first show review and experience with me having a photo pass was a great opportunity and an exciting moment for me. I think all the bands did really well except Mindflow, shame on you! Just kidding, but really what the heck? Anyway, I had a great time watching the bands perform and jumping and singing a long to the lyrics. I had a lot of fun and I think it was a great show overall. Take Action Tour 2013!

Gary Clark Jr.-Blak and Blu

Gary Clark Jr.- Blak and Blu
 

Track list:

1. Aint Messin 'Round
2. When My Train Pulls In
3. Blak and Blu
4. Bright Lights
5. Travis County
6. The Life
7. Glitter and Gold
8. Numb
9. Please Come Home
10. Things Are Changing
11. "Third Stone from the Sun/If You Love Me Like You Say"
12. "You Saved Me"
13. "Next Door Neighbor Blues"

Gary Clark Jr. is based in Austin, Texas and is signed to Warner Bros. Records. Gary, singer/guitarist, has a few types of genres in his music, mainly blues and rock n' roll. After doing my research and visiting his website, I've discovered that many other popular magazines and newspapers loved Gary's music. His website included quotes like, " He maybe the next Hendrix" or, " He's about to become an overnight sensation." So needless to say, I was excited to hear his new album "Blak and Blu."

On the first track,"Ain't Messin Round," it caught me off guard with the bluesy, rock n' roll vibe. It kept my attention though and ended with a nice guitar solo. But song after song I started to get really bored with the rock songs. They weren't creative and there's unnecessary guitar solos in EVERY song. Some lasted 1-3 minutes. I also noticed he repeats his lyrics a lot, making me think that he doesn't know what else to write, so he repeats them which makes each song longer than they should be. The fifth track called "Travis County" was actually my favorite song on the album. It's got an old school rock n' roll feel to it and the lyrics are a story, which makes it more interesting than the other tracks on the album. Plus "Travis County" was an appropriate song for a guitar solo, surprising I know! But I have to give Gary props. Although I didn't like the album at all, he is good at the blues, rock n' roll, and R&B type genres. He's really showing his talents in each song, but I think he should stick to one genre because there's different genres all over the album from really slow and steady to loud and raw. Maybe I'm just crazy but it was not my cup o' tea.

Mumford And Sons- Babel

Mumford And Sons- Babel

1. "Babel"

2. "Whispers In The Dark"

3. "I Will Wait"

4. "Holland Road"

5. "Ghosts That We Knew"

6. "Lover Of The Light"

7. "Lovers' Eyes"

8. "Reminder"

9. "Hopeless Wanderer"

10. "Broken Crown"

11. "Below My Feet"

12. "Not With Haste"

 

Mumford and Sons have recently released their second album, 'Babel'. So as a long time fan, I was stoked to hear it. Also, I was really hoping that they didn't changed their sound and/or style. I am happy to say, they did not disappoint. When I listened to the first track called, 'Babel', it was a great song choice to start off the album. It's pretty much an epic start and doesn't stop until the end. After the second track, I was already hooked. One song after the other did not bring me down. You can imagine how happy I was! The only difference you can hear is the songs on this album are a lot faster and have more of the rock genre, compared to Mumford's last album, 'Sigh No More'. Good news is, you can still hear the Mumford and Sons we all love. I think they did the right amount of change to keep their folk style. I can honestly say that 'Babel' is another awesome album for Mumford and Sons.

 

 

The Lumineers-Self Titled

 

 Track list:

1."Flowers In Your Hair"

2. "Classy Girls"

3. "Submarines"

4. "Dead Sea"

5. "Ho Hey"

6. "Slow It Down"

7. "Stubborn Love"

8. "Big Parade"

9. "Charlie Boy"

10. "Flapper Girl"

11. "Morning Song"

  

The Lumineers have released their self titled debut album in April of this year. The folk-indie trio consists of Wesley, Jeremiah, and Neyla. Their sound has been compared to bands like Edward Sharpe and Mumford and Sons. I have a feeling you might also know them from their single, "Ho Hey". It's simpler than other songs on the album, as far as, the instrument playing. It still makes it a good sing along. Although, there are other songs on the album I wasn't too excited about. Some songs are too short or end too quickly, it made me want to keep listening and wanting more. I felt like I was being teased! The slow songs dragged a little bit to where I got bored. But once the songs picked up speed, they caught my attention more. However, the slow songs were more technical with the instrument playing. That's where I could hear how skilled they are at the their instruments. But I think overall it's a pretty good album, but I'm not too crazy about it.

Flagship Interview

Answers by Matthew Padgett
(Guitarist for Flagship)


1. First off, we know you are touring the east coast so, how's the tour going?

The tour is great. We love being on the road. There are always ups and downs, but every tour has gotten us closer to where we want to be. It's not only a good way to grow our fan base, but it's how we connect with our fans. For me, touring is why I'm in music. We get to see new places, meet new people, do what we love every night, and expand our influence. I feel more at home when I'm on the road than when I am in Charlotte.

2.What's the band going to do after tour? Work on new music? Another tour?

The current plan is to spend a week in Boone, NC, writing new material for the LP. We then have plans to start recording the full-length sometime in August in Athens, GA. I'm sure there will be more touring before the year's end.

3. Judging from your videos on your blog at www.flagshipmusic.com , you guys look like funny and cool guys to hangout with. Do you play jokes or pranks on each other?

We are always joking and having a good time, but I don't know if we prank each other so much. We respect each other a lot and try to keep a positive atmosphere in the group. I think we may enjoy playing pranks on strangers a little more...

4. Who are the bands that inspire you? Would you want to tour with them?

We all love different music, but some of our collective inspirations would be Radiohead, Sigur Ros, U2... Robyn? If it were up to me, we would tour with all of them.

5. Which bands do you hope to collaborate with? If any.

I have never thought about it, and we have never discussed it... but I'm sure if Thom Yorke called, we would all jump at the opportunity. I also think a Skrillex remix of a Blackbush song could be great!

6. My favorite song from Blackbush is, "The Knife", which song is your favorite?

My favorite song to hear on the EP is "The Knife", but my favorite song to play live is "The Fool". There is a lot of emotion on stage when we play it, and the crowd responds well to it.

7. What other bands/artist are you currently into?

This past month or so, I have been listening to Beach House, Washed Out, Radiohead, Gorillaz, and Randy Newman. This list is constantly changing though. In fact, Beach House is a new addition. I just started listening to them on this tour.

8. I know a lot of bands pray, yell a chant, or do a weird dance before their shows. Do you guys do any rituals before the show?

We sure do. Our tour manager, Daniel Frazier (or "The Rev" as some like to call him) prays over us, and then we count to three and chant something new every show. The chants can be anything from "Bill Murray saves!" to something a little too inappropriate for this interview.

9. What do you do for fun when your not with the band?

It's rare that I am not with the band. We are always working on music or touring. Even when we aren't, we are all best friends, and I actually live with two of the members. However, those few moments I am away from them, I like to spend with my girlfriend. We like outdoor activities and traveling together, but a lot of times we end up just chilling out in Charlotte.

10. What was your most memorable moment on tour?

We have so many great moments on tour, but the most memorable moment for me wasn't so great. It was when my pedalboard and amplifier fell out of the trailer and were lost for good. We are still working on replacing them, but I think it's going to provide a great opportunity to improve my sound... so maybe it was a good thing after all... You can check out Flagship out at www.FlagShipMusic.com

Flagship- Blackbush EP

Flagship- Blackbush

 www.Flagshipmusic.com

 

Track list:

1. "Backseat"

2. "Still I Wait"

3. "The Knife"

4. "The Fool"

5. "Older"

I gave Flagship's, Blackbush, a listen and I couldn't help but love the melodic and mellow vocals, which blend in perfectly in the alternative folk, indie, and instrumental parts of the songs. The whole EP was 5 songs of pure relaxation. Each song is just as soothing and calming as the next one. Picture working your butt off all day, and you get in your car and all you want to do is relax. Put on Flagship's, Blackbush and just listen while you drive. Their music literally makes you listen to every part, every instrument, and every tempo change to every song. There's so much feeling behind their music, that I became a fan.

We Are The Union- Graveyard Grins

We Are The Union- Graveyard Grins

We Are The Union consists of five guys from Detroit Michigan. The ska-pop punk band has a variety of different genres in their music. Jim's punk beats, Brandon's bass lines, Mike's horn riffs, and Reed's ska guitar and pop punk voice. This band will stop at nothing at being original and not being your typical ska band. We Are The Union is currently signed to Paper + Plastick records, and have dedicated a lot of time touring the US and UK. The boys are now recording their new album, and is expected to be released later this year.

Track List:

1. "If I can't Smoke or Swear I'm Fucked"

2. "Do What You Love"

3. "And Fuck The Rest"