Last Week’s Jams (2.26 – 3.1)

As we ramp up towards SXSW, things have been in full swing over at the ATH camp. We ran a bunch of our “getting-to-know-you” interviews with the Ophelias, Jess Cornelius, Tigercub and Native Harrow. But, we also covered a shit-ton of new music that’s worth revisiting, if you’re up for it. Our old friends Blushing dropped a new tune from their next LP, plus we got to hear more from Dancer and Torrey in relation to their new releases. Long time ATH faves like Mo Troper and Rosie Tucker made an appearance too, with each having their own new records on the horizon. Plus, a bunch of other greats like Red Sleeping Beauty, Klaus Johann Grobe, Non La and more…so dive on in.

Mo Troper Shares The Billy Joel Fanclub Video

I know he’s gotten lots of praise, and we’ve certainly lauded all his work, but listening to the latest single from his forthcoming LP, I want to make sure we don’t undervalue the work of Mo Troper. For starters, I don’t think I’ve ever gotten a record from Mo where I think “yeah, this is exactly like the last LP.” Each time, he seems to channel different influences and recording techniques to really work on his craft. On this one, he alludes to late 60s era Paul McCartney work, but in my ears, and maybe I’m weird, I immediately felt like he was channeling a bit of the Zombies, at least when that first vocal bounces into the picture. Sure, his voice is distinctive, but he just keeps challenging himself, and we get to sit back and reap the rewards. Svengali is out May 3rd via Lame-O Records.

Last Week’s Jams (11.13 – 11.17)

Honestly, not sure what all we’re going to cover this week, as it seems like all the folks have given up hyping new music and records; I reckon its time for those year end lists to really make it out there! But, we did manage to cover a good amount of rock n’ roll last week, so let us hip you to what rips! Personally, I keep spinning the Finnoguns Wake track, which is the new project from Shogun of Royal Headache. That said, there was definitely some cool new stuff dropping from the likes of Flight Mode, Kissing Party and Friko, all of which made our typical coverage. Threw up some Say Sue Me and Rosie Tucker tunes, as a reminder that they’ve been out on the road and I managed to squeeze in both on Thursday of last week! Let it rip!

Mo Troper Covers Jon Brion + Announces Toper Sings Brion

It’s likely that you’ve heard Jon Brion‘s work, even if perhaps you weren’t aware. It’s more likely that you’ve heard Mo Troper‘s work, particularly if you’ve hung around on our site for a minute or three. Good news, Mo Troper is covering Jon, but he’s dedicating an album’s worth of material to tracks Brion never officially released, or at least in terms of a collection of tunes, such as 2001’s Meaningless. Interestingly, Troper’s version, like his own latest opus, plays high upon the pop heartstrings; I love the way he’s polished his voice into something distinctive and sugary. There’s a mid-tune guitar noodling, tying the work of Brion and Troper together. Whether you’re listening to this as a fresh Mo Troper bit, or from the Jon Brion aficionado, you’re going to be instantly rewarded. Toper Sings Brion will be out next Friday via Lame-O Records.

Diners Release Someday I’ll Go Surfing

You ever come across a voice and it just feels like somehow its speaking to you? Well, each time I press play on a track from the new Diners LP, I can’t help but think of Blue Broderick’s vocal charms. Musically, there’s this sweet simplicity, with the focus stemming on the steady chug of those twinkling guitar riffs; it makes sense that the new LP was produced by Mo Troper, as this track completely builds along similar Troper territory, twisting good old fashioned rock styles into undeniable hits you can’t get out of your head. Classic pop rock never goes out of fashion, especially when its executed this well; Domino is out August 18th via Bar/None Records.

Last Week’s Jams (4.17 – 4.20)

If there is one song I want you to listen to it has to be the absolute smash hit from Maine’s Big Blood; I think I’ve listened to that track 1000 times since I’ve heard it, if not more. Of course, there’s other great tunes to enjoy as well, like that pop ditty from Tough Age, or Rama Lama’s new signing, Echo Ladies. Plus, Austin held its own again with new stuff from Dress Warm and RF Shannon. And, if you’re looking for something with some legs, there’s at least a handful of tunes stretching beyond the 4 minute mark, so indulge as you must.

Mo Troper Drops Another Pop Nugget: Stream For You to Sing

We’re barely removed from the release of MTV in the Fall of last year, but Mo Troper never seems to slow-down, and why would he? His latest effort has this intertwining bit of guitar weaving this quilt of glam, lo fi and crunchy indie rock; it’s almost a stomper, with tons of classic guitar flare hitting the high notes. Mo’s distinctive voice shines brightly from the textured mix of rock n’ roll, like a beacon of light guiding you along the path of rock n’ roll pleasure. Word on the street is this tune will feature on Mo’s next great record; it’s going to great. Track available courtesy of Lame-O Records.

Last Week’s Jams, Today (8.15 – 8.19)

Is it just me, or does it seem like there’s an overabundance of great music coming out as of late? I mean, I fell in love with at least a half dozen new tracks last week, and that’s just the one’s I was able to get up on the site. At the end of the day, I’m still blown away by that Mo Troper tune; I was a fan before but these last two tracks are out of this world good. Ribbon Stage dropped another hit we couldn’t escape running, plus there’s some old ATH standbys like Michael Beach, the Beths and Free Time (all Oceanic acts no less!). Press play, and sink into that Monday vibe.

Mo Troper Shares The Only Living Goy in New York

Maybe its entirely a stretch, but I feel like Mo Troper‘s latest album is likely going to put him in a sort of Daniel Johnston territory all by himself. On the first single from MTV, you got a little bit of that sort of link between his early work and where it seems like he’s heading on this collection. It’s not even the faint warble and distinctive delivery, but just the finer, whimsical details like the harmonica and faint percussion that really makes me feel like he’s crafting some of the more magical music to come out right now. I sincerely hope you’ll give it a listen, then be sure to pick up MTV on September 2nd via Lame-O.

Last Week’s Jams, Today (7.25 – 7.29)

I don’t know if you guys noticed, but RayRay got a new gig, so he’s had tons more time to get some sweet jams up! It’s great, as we definitely have some crossover, but also our own styles, so our playlists are probably much more diverse! I mean, just last week he premiered new Mother Sun and Peter Matthew Bauer, while I was rocking the heck out of Almond Joy and The Smashing Times. I mean, there’s no winner, but you! We also were able to get some old friends on the pages with Why Bonnie and Cam Bina! So, happy Monday to us all!

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