This is fine.
Day One was fun.
Day Two, however, was met with a splitting sinus headache and stories of crowded photo pits with iPhones and friends of the friends of the bands that got in as “Press”. Such is the festival atmosphere. It is like an insurance conference where normal human beings sometimes get a little nuts.
Regardless, we had a punch list and we were going to punch it. Head past the break for a few notes and plenty of pics.
If you follow this site, you’ve got to know my affinity for really well written indie-pop tunes, so I was pleased to come across Pet Milk through the suggestion of Literature front-man, Nate. Apparently, the Philly group carries with them some members of Brown Recluse (a solid band on Slumberland), but Adriane’s vocals on this recording provided a nice little twist to the band’s sound, giving it a hint of warm sexuality. Still, you’ll find my favorite musical trademarks like heavy-handed guitar jangles and anxious drumming; be sure to stay tuned for the great end to to the track. You can find tons of songs from the band over HERE, but don’t forget to donate a little bit to the band’s efforts!
Download: Pet Milk – Phantom Lovers [MP3]
After a week spent listening to psychedelic rock n’ roll, I needed something to cleanse the spirits. I just wanted something refreshing and fun, something to get me back into the mood for a relaxing week, and Allo’ Darlin and the Wave Pictures definitely helped me out.
Read on for thoughts on all the night’s acts and sweet photos from B. Gray.
Please don’t let the name here mislead you, these dudes aren’t nearly as tough as the name would indicate! That being said, you should listen to them to figure out precisely why, and if you do, you’ll be rewarded with a solid bouncy track from The Tough Shits. The group recently released their self-titled debut on Burger Records; it’s full of bouncy janglers and pop ditties with just a hint of a “tough” edge. These are the sort of tracks I can 100% stand beind, so if you need something fun and spirited, then you get behind these guys right now!
Download: The Tough Shits – Birds (Don’t Get Tired of Flying) [MP3]
Day One at Psych Fest was pretty laid back, and I’m sort of grateful that the crowds haven’t completely caught on to this unique festival; you have to go though because the people watching alone is worth the price! This was my first time to both venues, and I was rather impressed with both the sound and the set-up, so that bodes well for both venues as Austin’s musical landscape moves into the future.
Past the break, Brian and I will share some insight into bands that played and plenty of images from Day One…
This little jam’s been floating around for a day or so, and it only gets more incredible with time. We loved the first release from Twin Shadow (the working name of George Lewis Jr.), so when Confess comes out on July 10th (4AD) you know we’re going to snatch it right up. From my first listen, there sounds like there’s going to be a bit more of a pronounced production value on this release. Here, you can almost place the track inside your favorite 80s movie; you’ve got to love the sharpness of the guitar. Lewis’ vocals are top notch and captivating on this song to boot! Enjoy.
Download: Twin Shadow – Five Seconds [MP3]
Sure, Psych Fest just ended here in Austin, but I’m already trying to organize next year’s artists for the festival. I’ve decided the first band they should pencil in is the Allah-Las, a hot group out of California. After spending my weekend with music that blended together, I think there’s some distinction in the blend this band is playing, offering a cleaner spin on the genre. Their second single, Tell Me (What’s On Your Mind) is something you’ll want to try and order from the group; I want you to take a nice little listen to the lead track from said single before you get your wallet out.
Download:Allah-Las – Tell Me (What’s On Your Mind) [MP3]
It’s sort of weird that the dissolution of Broken Social Scene seemingly has brought about a decrease in American interest in Arts and Crafts Records, which is really a shame. One of the label’s newest signings is the British group, Zulu Winter, who previously got some love from P4k, but I expect even more interest with this new record; it’s titled Language and should be in the stores on June 19th. Seeing as the band is from the UK, you can see some similarities in the local music scene, such as the beat of the drums, the vocal delivery, and so on and so forth. You know you can’t turn away from a good hook.
Download:Zulu Winter – We Should Be Swimming [MP3]
Recently I caught on to the Eversons, another great act from New Zealand. They’ve just released their latest record, Summer Feeling, and it’s exactly the sort of album that gets me excited for warm weather. It’s got energy, it’s got hooks, and honestly, it’s got a little bit of homage to a lot of other acts. My first run through, I sort of have the impression that the band’s putting their own sort of spin upon Los Campesinos or even Art Brut. If you’re like me, just mentioning the name of these two acts in one breath should definitely get you excited!
Download:The Eversons – Marriage [MP3]
In 2010 we fell in love with To Dreamers, the last effort released by Kelley Stoltz, so we’ve been patiently been waiting for him to put out some new tracks in town. Luckily, I stumbled across a brand new 7″ that he put out titled Two Imaginary Girls, which was released by Les Disques Steak. This new tune is a nice little 3 minute rock n’ roll tune that demonstrates Stoltz’s classic style of songwriting, especially that really simple vocal change that goes down during the chorus. Hopefully this means more new stuff is just around the corner from Kelley. You can jam to the B-Side HERE.
