Archive | May, 2012

Ugh NO, Foster The People cover Alabama Shakes’ “Hold On”

6 May

I’m a huge Foster The People fan, seen them more times than I can remember, featured them on the blog way back when, heck I even interviewed them to preview a show in Vegas but for the first time, I have to say no, no, no.  They recently with a little help from Luke Pritchard of The Kooks covered “Hold On” by the Alabama Shakes and while it may be a sign of respect to cover someone else’s work, some are best left alone.  Brittany Howard has a unique and incredible voice and quite frankly “Hold On” only sounds proper with her vocals on the track.  I applaud you for trying but don’t spoil something beautiful.

I suspect (and hope) there might be a better, updated version of this coming next month when all three bands will be at Bonnaroo.

Here is the video of FTP covering “Hold On” and you can judge for yourself.  If you want to hear the original by the Alabama Shakes, click here.

Coldplay pays tribute to Adam Yauch/MCA “Fight For Your Right” (Video)

5 May

Mad props to Chris Martin and Coldplay for a sweet rendition of “Fight For Your Right,” last night, May 4 at their Hollywood Bowl Show in California in tribute to the passing of Adam Yauch/MCA.

Much respect.

Countdown to Bonnaroo: 32 Days – Artist of the Day: Umphrey’s McGee

5 May

Long time fan of Umphrey’s McGee and I just can’t wait to see them at Bonnaroo.  Caught a show earlier this year out in Las Vegas and they definitely didn’t disappoint.  Part of the jam band circuit, these guys sure can do that and I can’t wait to see what tricks they have up their sleeves for the farm. Please, please, please let them be a late night show!! With the lighting rig they bring, oh this would be a fun one at 2 a.m.

All I hope for is to hear one of my favorite songs, “Nothing Too Fancy.”

New Music: Donavon Frankenreiter – “Start Livin'”

5 May

I guess my Saturday is really starting to look up. One of my favorite artists, Donavon Frankenreiter just dropped a video (a little Soul Train tribute) for his new song, “Start Livin'” so yeah, let’s start livin and celebrate tonight!! His new album which bares the same name will be released May 29. What a way to usher in summer.

R.I.P. Adam Yauch

4 May

Today is a very sad day as Beastie Boy, MCA aka Adam Yauch has passed away at the age of 47. As anyone who is a Beastie Boys fan knows, he had been battling a fight with cancer – which hasn’t been confirmed as the cause of death but it is speculated to be the case.

For me, the Beastie Boys have been a huge influence on my love of music. They were the first hip-hop act I ever listened to, fell in love with and truly followed. I’m sure glad I did have a chance to see them perform live as it was everything coming full circle to see living legends on stage doing their thing.

Today the music world lost another pioneer, a musician who broke boundaries, gave people hope and stood for a lot of things that were right.

Mike D and Ad Roc, I guess they may have known more when they accepted the induction to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and read a letter from MCA a couple weeks ago.  May you rest in peace Adam Yauch.

Countdown to Bonnaroo: 33 Days – Artist of the Day: Rubblebucket

4 May

It’s that time again, my Countdown to Bonnaroo!  33 days to go and I couldn’t be more excited. So many great bands set to play this year that I had to sneak in a few extra days in the countdown!

Today’s act, one of the newest additions to the lineup, Rubblebucket!  Hailing from Brooklyn, NY, Rubblebucket are an indie-dance troop that is sure to have you working up a sweat moving to their grooves.  And how can you not love a band with a great horn section (let alone from the band leader)?!

Here’s my favorite track from the group, “Silly Fathers.” I hope you enjoy.

New Music: Viceroy & WhiteNoize – “Only Takes”

3 May

It’s been a minute since I have put some dance music up on the blog so why not get back at it today. Stumbled upon this track and I think I may have found the lead track for the May playlist.

Great ready for your new spring/summer jam courtesy of Viceroy & WhiteNoize with “Only Takes.”

If you haven’t had the chance to listen to the San Francisco based Viceroy, now’s your chance and grab yourself his Sunburn EP which dropped late in 2011.  His feel good vibe and perfect tunes for the season will be just what you need to help get you through the work week dreaming of the weekend.

And if you really want to be thrown a curveball, give a listen to Viceroy’s “Going Back To Cali” remix. Yah mon!

Now Playing: Baywood – “I Can Breathe Again”

2 May

This week I’ve been really getting into this band, Baywood. Comprised of Joe Ginsberg and Jarrad Kritzstein, the Cali duo bring a refreshing indie-folk sound that is definitely music you need to be listening to. Give a listen below to “I Can Breathe Again” and pick up Seasons.