Last Week’s Jams (2.12 – 2.16)

Sorry for taking off yesterday, but we’ll be honest, this site’s run by folks in the education field, so when we’re granted a rare day off mid-semester, you better believe we’re hanging with our families! But, here I am with hopefully a link to last week to set you up for this week. We covered perhaps too much music last week, getting 28 songs on the mark, and I was super stoked to hear that both Parsnip and Mammoth Penguins were back in business…with new albums heading our way. Plus, Kindsight gave us another sparkling single from their forthcoming LP via Rama Lama Records. I’m in on new Bolis Pupul, so we’ve got that, plus Unwed Sailor have a new release…there is maybe too much new stuff out there! Just take a listen!

Friday Album Streams: The BVs, The Infinites + More

It’s Friday, and the release schedule has picked up around these parts, and a couple of my favorite artists are dropping new LPs today. It’s definitely not an end-all-be-all list, but just wanted to give you something worth jamming to all day long. No need to get long-winded here, just offering advice for Friday.

The BVsTaking Pictures of Taking Pictures(Shelflife/KUS)

The InfinitesArchetypes(Meritorio Records)

Laura Jane GraceHole In My Head (Big Scary Monsters)

Idles TANGK (Partisan Records)

 

Idles Announce New Album, Tangk

Felt like no one would be up in the morning, so why not pull what the big blogs do and schedule a jam for you all to run before I’m even awake! Honestly, I’m still waiting to hear the entirety of the new Idles record. But, employing James Murphy (among others) for backing vocals seems like a step to move outside of the established sound…which can be wearisome nowadays with the various imitators. This has the same bite, but with a little bit of a new flex to keep the band moving in new directions. They release Tangk in February of next year courtesy of Partisan Records.

Show Pics: Idles @ Stubb’s

After over 2 years of being a home body and living with anxiety, mixed with a dash of unease, it was an overwhelmingly cathartic experience to get out of the house to see live music again. Seeing old faces, visiting old haunts, and of course being treated to an incredible live set by one of the best live bands around, Idles. I’d say BGray and I were like little kids going to a show for the first time. Hit the jump for a few thoughts and some fancy photos from BGray.

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Show Preview: IDLES @ Stubb’s 10/25

Shows are back, y’all, and in full swing. We’ve got a bunch of touring acts coming to the ATX in the next few weeks…looking at you Levitation 2021, but also some great bands to catch while they’re in town before hand. This Monday, we’re welcoming IDLES to Stubb’s, who are known for their raucous post-hardcore/punk sounds and wildly entertaining live shows. They’re just about to drop their fourth studio album, CRAWLER, on 11/12, and they’ve released the single “The Beachland Ballroom” for us to preview the latest effort. Now, this show is sold out, but I’m sure if you scramble you can find a way in. It’s bound to be an evening of fun, mayhem, and exceptional tunes.

Introducing: Lonely Guest

As a part of the newly reformed and relaunched label False Idols, UK founder/rapper/producer Tricky has a new group called Lonely Guest to celebrate the event. Though you won’t know the band name, you’ll certainly recognize the voices of Idles front man Joe Talbot and frequent Tricky collaborator Marta on the groups debut single “Pre War Tension” found below. It’s a dark, slinky little number which focuses on the commanding presence of vocals from Talbot, Marta and even Tricky himself. After a few listens, you’ll definitely want to know what’s next from the label and if this is a precursor to further collabs.

Top Songs of 2019

Phew, the end of the year really snuck up on me this time and it’s crazy to think we are moving on from the 2010s. Before we do so, Nathan and I of course want to share some of our favorite things from the year for those of you who care to hear our opinions. I am typically the songs guy and Nathan usually takes on the albums, so here it is, my favorites from this year. Hit the jump for my list and a Spotify playlist to take with you.

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ACL WE2 in a Nutshell

Another Austin City Limits is behind us boys and girls and it’s always a good time to reflect on the music and experiences from the weekend. I considered myself very lucky to spend more time out during Weekend 2 when the weather was a bit cold and then incredible. The rain was limited and refreshing, and the colder weather brought out everyone’s best ACL hoodie. Once again, fun was had by everyone in attendance and the music was killer. Hit the jump for a couple thoughts.

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Looking Back and Looking Forward: ACL W1 Recap & W2 Preview

ACL 2019

Today’s the day! It’s officially day one of Weekend Two of Austin City Limits 2019! Last weekend, we endured a ridiculous amount of heat and humidity to see some great bands deliver wonderful performances. Lucky for you, Weekend Two goer, you have the chance to see essentially the same lineup (with a few wonderful additions) with far superior weather. Yes, it may look like rain is in the forecast this morning and it’s likely Zilker will turn into a bit of a mud pit (rain boots may be your friends), but the great news is you will not sweat merely by existing. You can view the full schedule here, and if you’re a fan of the hard paper copy, I would suggest printing one out at home, as there is no fold out maps / schedules this year. Read more for my thoughts from Weekend 1 and suggestions for Weekend 2. Read more

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