Sonic Level

Jakob - Semaphore

2010-01-01T03:02:00.005+01:00

So, welcome in a Happy New Year! I should probably bring a summary to my music discoveries in 2009 now, but I won't, at least for a while. To tell the truth, I barely listened to anything released this year, except maybe strongly recommended 'Carboniferous' by Zu. Yet, this post is still a kind of 'best of' (ugly wording, heh). 3... 2... 1... GO!

The Silent Ballet elected Tim Hecker's new album as it's No.1. Actually, this was a year of individual artists on TSB, and quite a dominant period for ambient-oriented soundscapes. For me, the disappointment was lack of French Teen Idol's new release in top 50 LP list, especially since it was praised by their staff (8.5 points out of 10). Be reminded: 'El Siete Es La Luz' rocks really hard, just as previous releases of Andrea di Carlo.

___
On a side note: TSB prepared a list of top 50 artist of the decade. There are only ten slots left for the giants, so I expect the following: Grails, Tim Hecker, Do Make Say Think, Explosions in the Sky, Sigur Rós, Bohren & der Club of Gore, Godspeed You! Black Emperor, Stars of the Lid, 65daysofstatic and... I don't know who else?

Everyone else picks 'Merriweather Post Pavillion' as the ultimate winner. Fortunately, Animal Collective made their way into Last.fm rankings, among many ugly pop bands. They were not able to surpass awful singer, whose name I won't mention, because it's not worth of it. But: they are popular and weird enough to attract more people into really alternative music. BTW, I don't like the album at all; I just favourited 'My Girls' as a single.

Fine. Time for my top tune. It's 'Semaphore' by Jakob. Nuff said:

Artist: Jakob
Album: Cale: Drew (2003)
Track: Semaphore
Track Number: 3
Track Length: 6:10
Labels: Midium Records (NZL)

International Karate - A Night Without Sleep

2009-12-22T13:04:00.006+01:00

International Karate popped out when noone ever thought about post-rock genre. That's right: it was old computer game, released in 1986 for C64 and Atari platforms. Player had to kick, punch and throw his opponents till the blackbelt was eventually achieved. People of 21th century use Tekken or Street Fighter for the same entertainment, but as usual, old games bring back nostalgia about the time when imagination wasn't substituted by 3-D graphics.

I'm not sure if Australian band with similar name took it's aka from that ancient fighting game. If yes, that would be nice, yet it doesn't matter that much; whoever these guys are, they have to be good if they hit some The Silent Ballets' compilations. I especially like the fact that they are somehow in contradiction to typical, "epic", post-rock sound. It's lighter, happier, simplier sound; good break between another albums of very long and very mature titles.

Unfortunately, they are done. IK split up on 19th of October 2009, sending it's members to bands like Slight of Build, Drawing Arcs and Neon Druid. They've left the business after 12 years and 3 longplays released for Sensory Project label. In the end, they left us with this. Farewell old video games and old bands - I will miss you.

International Karate - A Night Without Sleep

Artist: International Karate
Album: More Of What I've Heard Before Than We've Ever Heard Before (2007)
Track: A Night Without Sleep
Track Number: 3
Track Length: 6:08
Labels: Sensory Project (AUS)

Caspian - Crawlspace

2009-12-19T18:23:00.010+01:00

Ah, agressive post-rock. A daring opposition to mild, upbeat sounds inspired by Explosions In the Sky. Let me tell you something: in fact, I approve only on one EITS album - the one that has the longest title. All their remaining works were unfortunately little inspired but very inspiring. In short, Explosions is a mother of uncountable band that offer nothing except the same, repetitive experience. Can anything be worse than that?

Guys from Massachusets' - Caspian used to be one of EITS successors. 'You Are The Conductor' was a perfect example of how one band should not sound similarily to another. Except maybe 'Loft', all tracks were crafted "safely" thus being booooring. Caspian's debut was far from being impressive and frankly, I never put any hope in their further works, labeling this band as bad copy/paste group.

Now that I'm still before listening to 'The Four Trees', I can proudly say: they moved on! Holy sh*t! From simple and melodic textures they matured to record thing like 'Crawlspace'. Creepy opening, drummer's flair, more drumer's flair and damn good melody mounted with the layers of disotred guitars. Thank God, we are out of the Explosions Closet!

Caspian - Crawlspace

Artist: Caspian
Album: The Four Trees (2007)
Track: Crawlspace
Track Number: 4
Track Length: 7:36
Labels: Dopamine Records (USA)

Red Sparowes - Buildings Began to Stretch Wide Across the Sky, and the Air Filled With a Redish Glow

2009-12-18T21:11:00.010+01:00

I don't trust supergroups. Let them be a mix of the most creative, independent people - they will still lead me to the suspicion that their members are out to make money by getting together big names they earned before. Most of them still have main projects running, so who knows if they won't treat the supergroup as 'secondary target'? Bringing riffs, melodies and vocals that were not good enough for 'initial bands'? And even if it goes much better than it, I have high expectations. Often unfulfilled.

So what can Red Sparowes offer? When band formed in 2003, it was going to be short-lived venue for all spiritus movens' who were too ambitious for Isis, Neurosis, Halifax Pier and couple more bands. Yet, despite total deconstruction of the lineup in 2004, two bold guitarists stayed on the surface and drafted more people for second entry. Thanks to Bryant Clifford Meyer and Greg Burns, Red Sparowes carried on to release two full albums with veeeery long song titles.

I hate the idea of putting 15 word long statements as track titles. But sigh, the tracks themselves are powerful. "Buildings Began to Stretch Wide Across the Sky, and the Air Filled With a Redish Glow" is a silly name, isn't it? Yeah, and it slams you in face with guitar invasion, pumping gloom into one's ears. There is a melody behind it, of course. Still, the key is steady flow of rhythm. Let yourelf drown man, let yourelf drown...

Red Sparowes - Buildings Began to Stretch...

Artist: Red Sparowes
Album: At the Soundless Dawn (2006)
Track Name: Buildings Began to Stretch Wide Across the Sky, and the Air Filled With a Redish Glow
Track Number: 2
Track Length: 7:21
Labels: Neurot Recordings (US)

65daysofstatic - Welcome to the Times

2009-12-16T01:48:00.007+01:00

Hm, I admit it took me a lot of time to be converted on this band. They are so different from what 'post-rock' means... Who gives them this tag anyway? There are no complex layers, no subtle addons, no unusual structures in their songs; nothing really genric about four guys from Sheffield, who seem to make a big name for themselves.

So where the success comes from? The answer is energy, passion, intensity. 65's are probably the most 'punk' oriented among rock innovators. Every song is like fight for life, and I mean it seriously - just try 'The Fall of Math', their #1 debut and tell me if there is a rebellion in this record. Sure it is! These days, when bands are free to do what they want only before releasing something, hearing an extraordinary 1st album isn't too surprising. Yet, recording every next CD with same excellence, as 65dos do, can be atributed only to chosen ones.

Don't get my wrong - I am far from full appreciation to what 65daysofstatic do. It's just not my usual cup of tea; a drink that sounds too straightforward, too 'obvious', if you can get what I mean. But since they surely have bunch of good singles, they deserve a spot here. Especially because there is no other band like them.

65daysofstatic - Welcome to the Times

Artist: 65daysofstatic
Album: One Time for All Time (2006)
Track: Welcome to the Times
Track Number: 4
Track Length: 3:53
Labels: Monotreme Records (UK)

Six Organs of Admittance - Shelter Form the Ash

2009-12-14T14:47:00.005+01:00

Just one man. Only one. Yes, you really have to be good musician to pull it off. Not only you need good skill at playin' it, you also need social skills to find and persuade guests to your act. Whatever kind of non-electronic music you play, there is no chance you can make it work on your own. Devendra Banhart would be a no-name without his freak-folk friends - just as they would be obscure without him. Friendship is all out there.

Why I'm saying this? Well, Ben Chasny isn't just a member of Six Organs of Admittance - he IS this band. Solo artist playin' pshychodelic folk-rock... Yeah, right. Just look on his discography: 7 LP's and possibly 2 times more splits, EP's, guest appearances etc. The more you give, the more you get, they say. I mentioned Banhart, because not only he is one of the contributors to Chasny's work: he also walk the same way SOoA did.

A killer among some poor achievements, "Shelter From the Ash" gave a name to LP that was criticized by one and admired by the other: just look how different were it's reviews here http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shelter_from_the_Ash. But the single is great example of simplicity at it's finest - one guitar, calm voice and some nice 'juggling' in the middle. Yummy.

Six Organs of Admittance - Shelter Form the Ash

Artist: Six Organs of Admittance
Album: Shelter Form the Ash (2007)
Track: Shelter Form the Ash
Track Number: 7
Track Length: 3:28
Labels: Drag City (USA)

Nekropsi - Yollar

2009-12-01T13:20:00.006+01:00

Everytime I think "Turkey", I get nostalgic about old chewing gum brand "Turbo". Those products were just mega-hit of early nineties in Poland, as my country kept crawling towards democracy and capitalism. I bet "Turbos" made at least couple Turkish businessmans rich; particularly those, who were owners of "Kent" company. But even today, die-hard fans keep collecting the car images that were added to those gums. It's crazy, I know.

By far Turkish music was non-existent in my listening schedule. What could I expect from them? Regions like Middle-East, China/Korea, Africa etc. are so underrepresented even among really obscure bands. So yeah, my narrow-minded approach made me think there is nothing interesting there, except maybe some chillout Turkish folk, good for consuming kebab at underground passage.

Nekropsi are three guys that proved me wrong. I'm delighted how this band from Istanbul kept their ethnical music identity despite heading for more conventional, universal audience. The song below is no less than thirteen years old and Nekropsi was only recently revived from ten-year hiatus. While listening to 'Yollar', I'm wishing them good luck with new recordings: progressive scenes need bands like this!

Nekropsi - Yollar

Artist: Nekropsi
Album: Mi Kubbesi (1996)
Track: Yollar
Track Number: 14
Track Length: 8:39
Labels: Ada Muzik (TUR)

Epic 45 - History vs The Future

2009-11-30T15:57:00.009+01:00

Damn, that was hell lot of time. I was about to be regular with posting, but somehow... Well, nevermind, I won't promise I'll be updating this as often as it used to be updated, but I'll try. Tons and tons of new music coming through my head recently, but somehow I can find any Holy Grails to show you (but Grails is a great band, by the way).

You liked "Dead Cities, Red Seas & Lost Ghosts" by M83? Kevin Shields would be your idol if he could play his life without all that MBV noise? múm's songs from first albums are good with you? You are voting for dream-pop and against shoegaze? OK, if you said 'yes' at least two times, you should try out Epic 45.

This band is in fact two guys from central England and exactly nineteen co-workers (Mike Oldfield among them, wow). They had 10th anniversary of their 1st album this year, so "they've come a long way, baby". Results? Over 600 000 plays on Last.fm made by over 30.000 listeners. So, it looks like this band has A LOT of die-hard fans who will scrobble their songs till death.

Somewhere between M83, Lights Out Asia, July Skies, Hammock... They keep floating with listeners since 1998. Let me show you how it goes: you explore simple melody and add textures to the palette as song progresses. Piece of cake; all you need is a talent to find 'that one hook'. Like this one:

Epic 45 - History vs The Future

Artist: Epic45
Album: Slides (2006)
Track: History vs The Future
Track Number: 5
Track Length: 7:08
Labels: Make Mine Music (UK)

The Album Leaf - Another Day (Revised)

2009-11-07T11:33:00.009+01:00

This Blog is NOT dead.

Now, I apologize for my absence here, but I'M BACK. I'll probably change couple of things about this site soon, including my non-song providing policy (so expect some compilation folders to download soon). I'm going to work a bit with graphical content (new layout maybe?), and some other things (could you suggest me something?)

But I repeat, this Blog is NOT dead.

And as a proof, I'll lend you my new discovery, made thanks to immortal Last.fm radio. The Album Leaf floated around, but it was by no means convincing sound for me. OK, I understand Jimmy LaValle's importance to post-rock development, but I even when I liked Tristeza more than his solo efforts, I still cannot call either of these my favorites.

Yet, this song sounds beautiful. Just like any other works put into album 'In A Safe Place', it was crafted with sincere help of Sigur Rós' members and more Icelandic support (especially from adorable girls from Amiina and Alafóss music engineers). Indeed, that 'glockenspiel' mood is easily recognizable here. I had quite long break from my listening schedule, but this serves like nice refreshement.

The Album Leaf - Another Day (Revised)

Artist: The Album Leaf
Album: In A Safe Place (2004)
Track: Another Day (Revised)
Track Number: 7
Track Length: 4:21
Labels: Sub Pop (USA)

Tortoise - Prepare Your Coffin

2009-10-12T09:25:00.008+02:00

That's right: Tortoise earns here 2nd post as the first band that was able to amaze me big time in 2009. In fact, I could blog a dozen of their good efforts, but this one is something special: probably first song ever to completely change my mind after first (false) impression. Being more specific: I was never happy about one of my favourite bands changing it's direction towards electronic music, as they did on 'TNT' and 'Standards' albums. And this year, they've released new CD, 'Beacons of Ancestorship', which pursued that direction and... well, simply convinced me.

At any rate, Tortoise have always been rock band above anything else. They were influenced by jazz, ambient, IDM and whatever you may think of, yet it was essentially guitar groove, what brought them to the heights of art. In 2009, to my entire pleasure, the band rocks again, not pretending like previous experiments never happened, but instead incorporating them as a background (sometimes even leitmotiv) support.

Yes! They'll be touring Poland! Just look at http://www.trts.com/splash.html; they'll come to Gdynia and Poznań on December 7th and 8th. So good to know. Oh, and by the way, I just found out how many side projects this band members have. The Sea and Cake, Isotope 217, Brokeback, Eleventh Dream Day... I wonder what they sound like?

Tortoise - Prepare Your Coffin

Artist: Tortoise
Album: Beacons of Ancestorship (2009)
Track: Prepare Your Coffin
Track Number: 2
Track Length: 3:37
Labels: Thrill Jockey (USA)

God Is An Astronaut - Echoes

2009-10-10T10:53:00.007+02:00

I would have nothing to say about Ireland if my folks were not going there to get some better-paid job; and if God Is An Astronaut never existed. This band has something rarely seen for a post-rock musicians teamed up in 2002: they have their own, recognizable style. More electronic/ ambient/ downtempo sound is enough to avoid comparisons to Mogwai or Sigur Rós. But don't be fooled too much: GIAA's songs have equally epic proportions and unorthodox guitar-style as bands above.

It's too bad, though, that good style is not resulting with good number of good tracks. Irish trio has some (I'd myself recommend Coda, From Dust to the Beyond and All Is Violent, All Is Bright), yet the narrow borders of music technique that defines their sound resulted so far with many songs that are 'just OK'. Damn, post-rock is not about being OK! You guys should have already recorded at least 10 memorable compositions or totally change your direction!

Getting back to the point... I still see a chance of evolution for GIAA. Song 'Echoes' from their 2008 self-titled album links more with dynamic instrumental bands like Gifts From Enola or Exxasens. I'd call it a little solution to the problem, maybe a nice one, but not really not that much satisfying. However, the song itself sounds very good in it's agressive, rock way. Definetely worth sharing, after all.

God Is An Astronaut - Echoes

Artist: God Is An Astronaut
Album: God Is An Astronaut (2008)
Track: Echoes
Track Number: 3
Track Length: 5:14
Labels: Revive Records (IRL)

Jaga Jazzist - Oslo Skyline

2009-10-08T08:51:00.007+02:00

Bands I know for a long time are pretty discriminated in my listening schedule: especially when I hyped them before my computers' disc was formatted. The inflation of good songs coming through my mind forces old good discoveries into oblivion. The more I recieve, the more I forget, so records I used to be tired of for listening again and again - well, they are erased from my memory. Sometimes, it is good process: when I hear it again, I appreciate them even more. But only on one condition: I must recall them first.

Yesterday, I had recall of this like a flashback: only a piece of melody popped out of my mind, and I initially thought that it was my, who invented this. But fortunately, I don't trust myself that much: I'm not a musician and that was too good song to be made by a novice like me. So I tried hard to figure out who did this and bingo! Old, old song from album I listened couple years ago. And, haha, this album was released in 2005, which shows how quickly music disappears from my thoughts.

Have fun. This is just amazing band, with bunch of ingenious musicians involved. I can't believe I mentioned them in Samuel Jackson Five's post, and not posted their own work so far. Anyway, now it's fixed. Watch in awe:

Jaga Jazzist - Oslo Skyline

Artist: Jaga Jazzist
Album: What We Must (2005)
Track: Oslo Skyline
Track Number: 4
Track Length: 5:32
Labels: Ninja Tune (GBR)

Maserati - Inventions

2009-10-06T14:46:00.008+02:00

Athens is an exceptional city. No, I'm not talking about capital of Greece, I mean those second Athens, located in Georgia, USA. Local university used to be a birthplace for exciting bands like R.E.M, B-52's and Neutral Milk Hotel. However, these are old lions today. Sorry Michael Stipe, time to make some space for new acts from your campus. One of them is quite nice team of Japancakes, but the real deal plays under the brand of Maserati.

Just like Italian cars signed with this word, Maserati is dynamic, breathtaking piece of art that might be called luxury good. Album 'Inventions For The New Season' was favourited by Robert Fripp himself; and if Mr. Fripp says 'yes', what could be better recommendation? His name was mentioned here for a good reason: unlike melodic post-rock bands, Maserati is heavily connected with progressive and psychodelic directions. Thanks to quite exposed drums and monumental compositions, this band literally explores new world somewhere between Pink Floyd, Porcupine Tree and Red Sparowes.

Just listen to this opener - if it won't blow your mind, then you have unquestionable proof that you are deaf. After listening, don't forget to download full album and tell about it your friends. And tell them to pass it forward: it deserves this. Thank you for your attention.

Maserati - Inventions:

Artist: Maserati
Album: Inventions For The New Season
Track: Inventions
Track Number: 1
Track Length: 9:43
Labels: Temporary Residence (USA)

Umma Project - Oceania

2009-10-05T12:57:00.007+02:00

Hello there! Sorry for recent inactivity, but you know... stuff... OK, nevermind, I was busy digging new albums and looking around for some YouTube content. This site is almost as awesome as sun: we all know it has limited resources to provide and sooner or later it'll burn out, but it's not going to happen during our life. Ah, I'm starting blah-blah-blah policy. Straight to the point, today we have nice piece of music from Esteban Meija Messa, who runs his solo project; Umma Project. Have couple minutes of relax.

I'm pretty sure I've never encountered any music connected with Colombia; well, in fact, I'm pretty sure I've never met anything connected with this country yet. Oh, wait, actually some bananas imported to Europe are have COL sign. But Mr Messa is Columbian, and fortunately, this has very good impact on his music. Ethnical post-rock? Maybe. I'm for, anyway.

This is still a beginning of his way. Currently, he has around 100 listeners on Last.fm and only one album + one EP released. However, this can be helped: http://www.theummaproject.com/ offers everyone free downloads of 'Etheral (La Noche del Terror Ciego)'. You can also grab some mp3's directly from his Last.fm page. Enjoy this, while you can.

Umma Project - Oceania:

Artist: Umma Project
Album: Etheral
Track: Oceania
Track Number: 5
Track Length: 5:45
Labels: ibiikarts (COL)

10 'The Most' Post-Rock Artists (10)

2009-10-01T12:31:00.005+02:00

1. Godspeed You! Black Emperor

Staff:
Efrim Menuck, Mauro Pezzente, David Bryant, Aidan Girt, Sophie Trudeau, Thierry Amar, Bruce Cawdron, Norsola Johnson (now),
Roger Tellier-Craig, Mike Moya, Grayson Walker, John Littlefair, Thea Pratt (then)

Birthplace:
Montreal, Quebec, francophonic Canada.

Active:

1994 - 2003.

For:
Apocalypse, dude.
Concept albums.
Inspiring.
Pacifism.
'Providence's' Outro.
Side projects.

Against:
Currently inactive.
Dissapointing 'Yanqui U.X.O'
Few releases.
Reasons of inactivity.

Connections:
anarchism, Blaise Bailey Finnegan III, Constellation Records, Fly Pan Am, Glenn Branca, Japanese biker gang, politics, Sam Shalabi, The Car Is On Fire

Once Said:
'I'm sure there are parts that could sell American Express credit cards.'
(Efrim Menuck on 'accessibility' of GY!BE's music, 2001).

Five Important Songs:
'Moya'
'Providence'
'Rockets Fall On Rocket Falls'
'Storm'
'The Dead Flag Blues'

Unusual Tags:
albums to worship, cathartic, comfort music, crescendo, elevator rock, monument, soundtrack to the apocalypse, video game fetish

My Note:
It's a shame that they split up to show their dissatisfaction with U.S. policy on Middle-East.

Essential Photo:

Shoot from film about gang, which inspired band name.

Essential Video:

Essential Album:

F#A#∞

10 'The Most' Post-Rock Artists (9)

2009-09-30T11:31:00.009+02:00

2. Tortoise

Staff:
Dan Bitney, Doug McCombs, Jeff Parker, John Herndon, John McEntire (now),
Bundy K. Brown, David Pajo (then)

Birthplace:
Chicago, Illinois, USA.

Active:

1990 - present.

For:
Consistency.
Instrumental virtuosity.
'Millions Now Living Will Never Die.'
Rhythm section.
So many hits.
Spacy sound.

Against:
'TNT' cover.
Electro direction.
David Pajo leaving the band.
Some album-filling songs.

Connections:
All Tomorrow's Parties, Bastro, Bonnie 'Prince' Billy, Can, David Grubbs, dub, free jazz, new weird America, The Sea And Cake, Thrill Jockey

Once Said:
'That's pretty good for a bunch of weirdoes playing instrumental music.'
(Jeff Parker on their new album hitting Japan bestseller list, 2009).

Five Important Songs:
'Djed'
'Glass Museum'
'Prepare Your Coffin'
'Seneca'
'TNT'

Unusual Tags:
art of chillaxation, cream of the crop, instrumental ram, manjoh, nice nite, running eyes, the more you listen the dipper you drift,

My Note:
One of the greatest underappreciated bands ever.

Essential Photo:

The other Tortoise(s)

Essential Video:

Essential Album:

Millions Now Living Will Never Die

Swans - Blind

2009-09-25T18:14:00.011+02:00

Before I'll finish my Top 10' list, let me introduce a band that have been hovering around me for a long time, but somehow 'I never gave it a chance: up to this day. Swans, twelve years after definite end of their fabulous career, hit my ear and I'm stunned. To be honest, the last time I've heard such amazing male vocals was when I experienced Tom Waits' art. Lead singer Michael Gira has a gift from above, and he knows how to use it. From hardcore noise to rich instrumentals, his band went very long way, but since I was overwelmed by Swans' very last release, I assume their direction was correct.

The band, however, was based on strange relationship (and later, marriage) between Gira and gothic femme fatale - Jarboe. Gosh, how I hate gothic rock. When Jarboe sings, Swans turn into one-of-million-pathetic-bleeding-heart band. Of course I can stand listening to it, because they used to have solid instrumental back-up, but I just cannot call it my favourite. Maybe it's good for us, listeners, that Gira and Jarboe have broken up?

So, let's make a summary: now i have another 11 albums to check (Swans) and 7 more, made by post-Swans' Gira's project called Angels of Light. Let's see... well, this is at least fifteen hours of listening, not to mention numerous EP's released by both bands. OK, I'll better return to my Foobar playlist now - otherwise I might never overcome this number of CD's!

P.S. I almost forgot: this song is from album, that appears to be some kind of B-sides compilation. OMFG, IF THIS IS B-SIDE, then WHAT WAS ON A?

Artist: Swans
Album: Various Failures (1992)
Track: Blind
Track Number: 15
Track Length: 4:31
Labels: Young God Records (USA)

10 'The Most' Post-Rock Artists (8)

2009-09-24T08:22:00.011+02:00

3. Talk Talk

Staff:
Mark Hollis, Paul Webb, Lee Harris, Simon Brenner (then)

Birthplace:
London, UK, metropolis.

Active:

1981 - 1992.

For:
Did it before Radiohead!
Ingenious sound development.
Knew when to retire.
Mark Hollis.
Never sold out.
No dumb comebacks.

Against:
For faint-hearted.
Inaccessible.
'Inspiring' for 10.000 shitty bands.
New romantic origins.
Slightly outdated.

Connections:
Anja Garbarek, Bark Psychosis, Duran Duran, EMI, Gwen Stefani, John Cope, minimalism, Roxy Music, synthpop, Tim Friese-Greene

Once Said:
'I think they wanted us to produce something along the lines of our earlier hits.'
(Mark Hollis on EMI bosses surprised by "Spirit of Eden', 1998).

Five Important Songs:
'Ascension Day'
'I Believe In You'
'It's My Life'
'Life's What You Make It'
'Myrrhman'

Unusual Tags:
chamber pop, detached, glamour music, mannered, miles davis, poignant, reflective, study music, the eighties were not that bad

My Note:
Balancing between 'disgusting' and 'amazing' is easier with Hollis' vocals.

Essential Photo:

'Talk Talk' for dumber people

Essential Video:

Essential Album:

Spirit of Eden

10 'The Most' Post-Rock Artists (7)

2009-09-23T17:57:00.011+02:00

4. My Bloody Valentine

Staff:
Kevin Shields, Belinda Butcher, Debbie Googe, Colm Ó Cióssoig (now), Dave Conway, Tina Durkin, Joe Byfield (then)

Birthplace:
Dublin, Ireland, green island.

Active:

1984 - 1997, 2007 - present.

For:
Active against cash odds.
Expanding the style.
Girls in lineup.
Kevin Shields is a God.
So heavy, but chilling.
Synthetic beauty.

Against:
It's worse than Sonic Youth.
May be annoying.
Only 2 LP's.
Reunification without new release.
Shoegaze is dead.
Worst band name ever.

Connections:
bad american horror, Berlin scene, Biff Bang Pow!, Hüsker Dü, Hope Sandoval, James Bond, noise, Ride, The Virgin Prunes

Once Said:
'I just always wanted to be Johnny Ramone'
(Kevin Shields about his early guitarist inspirations, 2007).

Five Important Songs:
'Lose My Breath'
'Only Shallow'
'Soft As Snow (But Warm Inside)'
'Sometimes'
'When You Sleep'

Unusual Tags:
alt-country, art punk, defiant melodic indie, freak show, gafapasta pop, radio ga ga, stoner, wall of blurry alluring sound

My Note:
Their music sound old and strange. Don't like it too much, but they were 1st to do it.

Essential Photo:

Essential Video:

Essential Album:

Loveless

10 'The Most' Post-Rock Artists (6)

2009-09-22T10:14:00.008+02:00

5. Sigur Rós

Staff:
Jón Þór Birgisson, Georg Hólm, Kjartan Sveinsson, Orri Páll Dýrason (now), Ágúst Avar Gunnarsson (on 'Von')

Birthplace:
Reykjavik, Iceland, borders of Europe.

Active:

1994-present

For:
1st Album (yeah, that's right!).
'Ágætis Byrjun'.
They've beaten Björk!.
Post-Rock popularizers.
otherwordliness.
vocals.

Against:
Been better.
'Gobbledigook'.
Infantilism.
Overhyped at wrong moment.
wicked track names.
vocals.

Connections:
Amiina, big labels, mainstream, opera, Radiohead, Riceboy Sleeps, Sugarcubes, 'Vanilla Sky', Vonlenska

Once Said:
'It's David Attenborough! How can you say no to that guy?'
(Georg holm about SR music played in "Planet Earth" series, 2007).

Five Important Songs:
Glósóli
Hafssól (from 'Von')
Ný Batterí
Untitled 1 (Vaka)
Vidrar Vel Til Loftárása

Unusual Tags:
ethereal, profound, san francisco, soothing, they play this in the queue for heaven, trippy as hell, weird

My Note:
To record their debut, they had to paint Bad Taste building inside (see: Essential Photo)

Essential Photo:

Essential Video:

Essential Album:

Ágætis Byrjun

10 'The Most' Post-Rock Artists (5)

2009-09-21T08:32:00.023+02:00

6. Mogwai

Staff:
Stuart Braithwaite, Dominic Aitchison, Martin Bulloch, John Cummings, Barry Burns (now), Brendan O'Hare (then)

Birthplace:
Glasgow, Scotland, not UK.

Active:

1995 - present.

For:
1st Album.
Barry Burns singing.
Glasgow Mega-Snake.
disostrion.
sense of humour.
track titles.

Against:
Auto Rock in Miami Vice
Copying themselves.
Huge self-esteem.
Mogwai sold out.
Zidane.

Connections:
Blur - is shite, 'Come On, Die Young!', Crippled Black Phoenix, Kinks, noise, Off Festival, Scott Asheton

Once Said:
'I think their new stuff sounds a bit like techno or something like that'
(Barry Burns about Radiohead's "Kid A", 2001).

Five Important Songs:
Cody
Friend of the Night
Hunted By A Freak
Like Herod
Mogwai Fear Satan

Unusual Tags:
brooding, daydreaming, homework, night driving, rather good, seasonal affective disorder, the cream

My Note:
Never surprising, always entertaning (also, Stuart B. tweets from Spain)

Essential Photo:

Essential Video:

Essential Album:

Young Team

10 'The Most' Post-Rock Artists (4)

2009-09-17T18:28:00.009+02:00

7. Do Make Say Think

Staff:

Ohad Benchetrit, David Mitchell, James Payment, Justin Small, Charles Spearin, Julie Penner, Jay Baird, Brian Cram (now), Jason Mackenzie (then).

Birthplace:
Toronto, Ontario, canadian pastures.
Active:
1995 - present.

For:
Big collective.
Jazz, jazz, jazz!
New album soon.
'Ontario Plates'.
Optimistic.

Against:
'Fine' but not 'Fascinating'.
So much time, so few albums.
Last release.

Connections:
Broken Social Scene, CIUT.FM, Constellation, countryside, hymns, Owen Pallet, "Syriana".

Once Said:
'Saxophone. I take that back. An Ampeg SVT 810E cabinet.'
(Justin Small, asked which instrument he would like to be, 2007)

Five Important Songs:
A Tender History In Rust
Auberge le Mouton Noir
Bound To Be That Way
Ontario Plates
War On Want

Unusual Tags:
brain food, for a rainy day, location location location, put it in your pocket right now, railgunall, touch of real rock spirit, trout farm naps

My Note:
These guys have guts: they run a 'metal-parody' band in their free time!

Essential Photo:

Essential Video:

Essential Album:

Winter Hymn, Country Hymn, Secret Hymn

10 'The Most' Post-Rock Artists (3)

2009-09-16T19:32:00.011+02:00

8. Slint

Staff:

Brian McMahan, David Pajo, Britt Walford (then & 2007), Ethan Buckler, Todd Brashear (then).

Birthplace:
Louisville, Kentucky, heart of U.S.
Active:
1986-1991, 2005, 2007 (retired).

For:
Album artworks.
McMahan can scream.
Pajo.
Psychodelic lyrics.
Sounds like never-discovered Nirvana.

Against:
1st album < 2 album.
Disbanded.
Failed reunification.
Not enough releases.
Too heavy?

Connections:
acid trip, David Grubbs, grief, Saab 9000 Turbo, Squirrel Bait, Steve Albini, The For Carnation.

Once Said:
'Daydream Nation' I definetely rocked the car when I was a kid.
(Brian McMahan discussing Sonic Youth, 2007)

Five Important Songs:
Breadcrumb Trail
Good Morning Captain
Rhoda
Ron
Washer

Unusual Tags:
albini, cryptic, d pajo, seminal, spanish inquisition, this never gets old, unsettling.

My Note:
My Note: Brian McMahan plays chess with Wu-Tang Clan members! Yeah!

Essential Photo:

Essential Video:

Essential Album:

Spiderland

10 'The Most' Post-Rock Artists (2)

2009-09-15T11:04:00.012+02:00

9. Bark Psychosis

Staff:

Graham Sutton & guests (now), Daniel Gish, John Ling, Mark Simnett (then).

Birthplace:
London, UK, Europe, Earth.
Active:
1986-1994; 2004 - present.

For:
THose, who inspired 'post-rock' term.
'Hex'.
'Hex' once again.
Complex ideas.
Close to jazz, close to rock.

Against:
not rock anymore, not jazz yet.
May cause to fall asleep.
Ideas better than execution.
Suspicious revival.

Connections:
Aphex Twin, dub, lo-fi, Kraftwerk, Seefeel, Simon Reynolds, St John's Church, Talk Talk.

Once Said:
We were like a hardcore band more than anything else.
(Graham Sutton about roots of the band, 1994).

Five Important Songs:
400 Winters
Absent Friend
Big Shot
From What Is Said To When It's Read
The Loom

Unusual Tags:
dumaky, granka, junkycore, le fol esquif en vogue, mac essentials, nid tu czek, posteuchrid mirror hall of dish-licious memories.

My Note:
Not my favourites, but earned a lot of respect.

Essential Photo:

Essential Video:

Essential Album:

Hex

10 'The Most' Post-Rock Artists (1)

2009-09-14T15:21:00.040+02:00

10. A Silver Mt. Zion

Staff:
Efrim Menuck, Thierry Amar, Sophie Trudeau, Jessica Moss, David Payant (now), Scott Levine Gilmore, Ian Ilavsky, Beckie Foon, Eric Craven (then).

Birthplace:
Montreal, Quebec, somewhere in Canada.
Active:
1999 - present.

For:
Violins and cellos in action.
Experiments with folk.
Close to GY!BE.
Good lyrics.
Better titles.

Against:
Last album.
Never decided how to call them.
Inflation of members.
Over-dramatism.

Connections:
a dog called Wanda, F#A#oo, horses, Jerusalem, Led Zeppelin, Nina Simone, politics, Tra-La-La Band.

Once Said:
People have hard drives of records that they’ll never listen to.
(Efrim Menuck about record collectors, 2008).

Five Important Songs:
Horses in the Sky
Sisters! Brothers! Small Boats of Fire Are Falling From the Sky!
Sit in the Middle of Three Galloping Dogs
Sow Some Lonesome Corner So Many Flowers Bloom
Stumble Then Rise on Some Awkward Morning

Unusual Tags:
do sprawdzenia, gyemantba metszve, haunting, lastfm player window could be wider, musik at ladda hem, paved wiener, to drift away.

My Note:
There are some polish words spoken in 'Sow Some Lonesome Corner So Many Flowers Bloom'!

Essential Photo:

Essential Video:

Essential Album:

He Has Left Us Alone but Shafts of Light Sometimes Grace the Corner of Our Rooms…

Dirty Three - The Restless Waves

2009-09-11T18:12:00.008+02:00

A band that will soon reach it's maturity (meaning it'll celebrate 18th birthday in 2011) is a rare thing these days. It is in fact Matusalem: older than Mogwai, older than Sigur Rós and most of the bands that invented post-rock. The point is that Dirty Three continues music trip, and post-rock is only a short stop on a long way. From playing with Nick Cave & Bad Seeds to three-continent accomodation of group members, the trio has never been mainstream cup of tea - meaning they were never stopped on their tracks.

While Jim White and Mick Turner are clearily responsible for rock aspect of this sound, Warren Ellis (yeah, he is that guy with enormous beard, who plays in Grinderman too) uses violin, bouzouki and mandoline to give folk feel to DT's sound. And (what a surprise, I'd never guess this!) the Three is extensively supported by David Grubbs' piano and harmonium as well as Steve Albini's (I swear, this man is everywhere!) production. Worldwide music community limited to few omnipotent bosses? Sure, why not.

Dirty Three has never been split up, yet it's not releasing anything since 2005. New York, Paris and Melbourne are really far from each other and there is only little hope those dirty musicians will meet again in studio. Let's enjoy what they left us: this one could be in fact kind of epitaph for them. Or maybe it's premature to say so? Well, I hope so.

Dirty Three - The Restless Waves

Artist: Dirty Three
Album: Ocean Songs (1998)
Track: The Restless Waves
Track Number: 2
Track Length: 5:09
Labels: Touch And Go (USA)

A Northern Chorus - Winterize

2009-09-10T17:27:00.006+02:00

Dig yourself somewhere on a distant, rural area and start to write songs for new album: since Justin Vernon did it before releasing his Bon Iver debut, this became a popular strategy. But of course, it's as old as music industry, and those who abuse it, often end up with melancholic CD's added to discography. Still it's very easy to do, especially if you are from Iceland or Canada, where finding hermitages is extremely easy.

A Northern Chorus tried this pattern twice: no surprises, they are from Canada. Results were at least promising: 'Bitter Hand Resign' turned in a majestic piece of indie art, possibly something which Arcade Fire might record if they were pursuing direction revealed on 'Funeral'. Anyway, 2005 was either too late or too early for kind of album ANC has presented us. In short, they failed to gain bigger popularity and were disbanded in the middle of 2008. Seems that the fortune cannot be generous for every artist who gives the best effort.

A neat story behind 'Winterize' video could have been recorded by David Lynch himself - if he was in sentimental mood. Someone did a relly good job here; apparently both band and director met in a right place at right time. But why this is an album closer? Of course it fits well for an end, yet this song deserves more credit.

A Northern Chorus - Winterize

Artist: A Northern Chorus
Album: Bitter Hands Resign (2005)
Track: Winterize
Track Number: 8
Track Length: 4:36
Labels: Sonic Unyon (CAN)

Les Discrets - Corbeaux Automne Ciel Gris

2009-09-09T17:14:00.012+02:00

Fans of music are incredibily greedy: when they spot something good, nothing can stop them from getting it. Publishing just two songs on MySpace page can have huge impact on popularity of any band, but the case of 'Les Discrets' is something I've never heard about before. Two tracks they already released were turned into fake, fan-made EP and published around the world on various blogs. Crazy, isn't it? You may read about this incident more here.

Anyway, the band comes from France, and it's definetely not hurry when comes to work. Six years after teaming up, they finally signed up contract with German label Prophecy and are about to release debut album this autumn. They call themselves Metal/Shoegaze/Acoustic. Strange, because the song below is a beautiful piece of warm folk. I would totally understand metal direction, since Les Discrets' leader used to play in Phest before, and this team produced very heavy sound indeed. But this folk is terrific: shouldn't they just stick to it?

Oh, looks like it's already confirmed: their first release is going to be doom metal creation. How bad. OK, then hear what you were robbed of; there won't be many more songs by them being as fine as this one:

Les Discrets - Corbeaux Automne Ciel Gris

Artist: Les Discrets
Album: Les Discrets EP (2007)
Track: Corbeaux Automne Ciel Gris
Track Number: 1
Track Length: 4:16
Labels: released-by-fans (sic!)

Thief - Hold On, Hold On

2009-09-08T09:45:00.008+02:00

Germany's capital city has a band called Jazzanova. This fourteen-years old child of five Berlin musicians have released only two full albums, but number of it's remixes is almost uncountable: looks like everyone (from Lenny Kravitz to Calexico), have been working with this kid. With numerous compilation appearances and DJ mixes, six jazzanovans suddenly appear to be very, very busy: especially, when you realize that some of them have side-project named Thief.

Some information about vocalist Sascha Gottschalk (who is totally in love with Rolling Stones' albums) can make you a bit confused, because Thief is a beautiful, mellow and warm mix of jazz/ folk/indie/electronica influences. The last time I've heard so relaxing album was when I got Bersarin Quartett in my loudspeakers - yet, that was different, and happened about two months ago. I listen to calm music frequently and Thief is simply overwhelming compared to most of recent stuff I applied on my ears.

Oh, and I forgot: Jazzanova and Thief members are founders of perhaps the most prominent Berlin label: Sonar Kollektiv. They are taking care of 77 (!) artists, mixing them up and preparing tons of compilation albums. Recently, they are touring Europe as well... Busy as hell, I must admit. Still, they somehow found time to make beautiful album artwork and this video to 'Sunchild' release as well:

Thief - Hold On, Hold On

Artist: Thief
Album: Sunchild (2007)
Track: Hold On, Hold On
Track Number: 3
Track Length: 2:55
Labels: Sonar Kollektiv (GER)

Karate - Sever

2009-09-07T08:39:00.007+02:00

People really should think twice before giving a name to their band. Recently, when I was digging for one of my favourite acts on YouTube, the only thing site returned were videos of young idiots, showing their skills at car control. It's because I looked for guys who called themselves 'The Drift', and when you have such name, your listeners are screwed, even when they type 'drift band' (there is a band with exactly that name as well), and 'drift music' (you like upbeat techno for drivers in BMW's, don't you?).

You can only imagine yourself how quest for Karate song ended. The last thing I found on 563107 page of YT suggestions was what I've been looking for: four-piece indie jazz collective from Boston, disbanded four years ago. Apart from semantic confusion, it really shows how fast past things are falling into obscurity. But yeah, the music was still there. To tell the truth, I knew about it because I found it before, thanks to Wikipedia, which mentioned Karate among notable post-rock bands. Without this - I'd never figure it out.

Watch out for twisted lyrics: I really like it's rythm. And do not miss guitar solo - delicious. Seriously, why projects like this are splitting up? Oh, OK, I found out that their leader, Geoff Farina, had some medical issues with hearing. I wonder if he ever heard about cause of Ludwig van Beethoven?

Karate - Sever

Artist: Karate
Album: Unsolved (2000)
Track: Sever
Track Number: 3
Track Length: 5:54
Labels: Southern Records (USA)

Long Distance Calling - 359°

2009-09-05T07:25:00.007+02:00

The border between rock and metal music has always been blurry. Today, those who were considered metal predecessors are now known as rock artists (Iron Maiden, Metallica: yes, for me they never did anything but playing hard rock). Standards are changing: new emerging groups make old metal monsters sound like dinosaur friends of Pink Floyd. Finally, there are many 'servants of Satan' inspired by rock, which even more complicates the matters.

After inventing a ridiculous term post-rock, someone made up even worse: post-metal. Now everyone, who is not growling like madman to percussion blasts plays post-metal. Long Distance Calling is no exception. Five Germans with two longplays released so far indeed love heavy sounds. But terms like post-metal are in fact excuses: their creators simply refuse to analyze the complexity of forms new bands are using. Everything that is not 'straightforward' may be called post-something: what's the point in that?

Enough of this. Let the Germans mess everything up by playing song that is definetely post-rock one on metal album. Their friends from Katatonia (recorded some vocals to one of LDC songs) may not be impressed by this 'all-but-heavy' song, yet it is fine from my point of view.

Long Distance Calling - 359°

Artist: Long Distance Calling
Album: Avoid The Light (2009)
Track: 359°
Track Number: 3
Track Length: 7:55
Labels: Superball Music (GER)

Ólafur Arnalds - 0040

2009-09-04T16:06:00.014+02:00

The so-called neo-classical music (which is in nothing else than ambient music influenced by retro stylistics) has it's hero! Hell, it's about time for the genre: Mike Oldfield rests in peace on Bahamas, alive, but far from music industry; Vangelis sold out before retirement; Johan Johansson and Max Richter are far from getting full publicity. So the winner is... Ólafur Arnalds, twenty-two years old guy from Mosfellsbær, Iceland.

Taking advantage of the icelandic boom that started years ago, Arnalds teamed up with most notable artists of his neighborhood: Amiina and Sigur Rós. Nothing surprising: all musicians from this coutry are like one big family. But playing with Aphex Twin and mixing some strings for 65daysofstatic is not a thing average Joe might do: especially for a guy, who used to be a heavy metal drummer before switching to ambient. That's right: I'd never guess this by listening to his music, but thank God he gave up drumming!

This guy is trully a music freak: his 7-track release 'Found Songs' took only a week to be made: he's been submitting all songs day after day on his website. Arnalds also tweets quite frequently, making himself followed by over 2.000 users. Good job ÓA: as long as you are making excellent music, autopromotion is welcome.

Artist: Ólafur Arnalds
Album: Eulogy For Evolution (2008)
Track: 0040
Track Number: 1
Track Length: 4:28
Labels: Erased Tapes (GBR)

Flies Are Spies From Hell - Next Hour

2009-09-03T14:07:00.008+02:00

So, today we have a band that still remains in icebox. They are releasing EP's and tour albums, they are sharing the stages with good bands (like Russian Circles, UpCDownC, And So I Watch You From Afar and more), but they are still miles from first full-length CD. The enigmatic 'Red Eyes Unravelling' sign on their MySpace may suggest that the debut already has title and will pop out soon, yet I'm still waiting. You should be waiting too, cause Flies Are Spies From Hell (attractive name, isn't it?) sound really good.

Putting piano and keyobards into post-rock arsenal was always kind of risk. I heard lot of bands playing compositions full of it and it almost always was kind of crap. Mixing subtle keys with agressive guitar noise was most of a time just act of tastless minds. The band from Southampton avoided such trouble by... well, by improving the piano itself. But, to be honest, the music surrounding it is very fitting, and this style seems rather unexplored compared to guitar- or electronica focused bands.

And, by the way, the system of links are probably the best thing ever invented to develop the internet. Just think for a while: how many ingenious thing you've found by following random link? (Except the RickRoll of course :P). Well, today, I found this.

Flies Are Spies From Hell - Next Hour

Artist: Flies Are Spies From Hell
Album: Mountain Language (EP, 2007)
Track: Next Hour
Track Number: 3
Track Length: 5:13
Labels: unsigned yet

M83 - We Own the Sky

2009-09-02T11:23:00.021+02:00

Anthony Gonzalez is a specialist when it comes to drug-inspired electronica. However, it was very likely for me to miss his name among the other, since he plays under miserable nick M83, and he is very experienced, accomplished artist. As usual, by digging deeper and deeper for diamonds in rough, I missed something good that was on the surface.

M83 relies on the simpliest pattern: to surround himself with great sound producers, play a flurry of synthesizer, uplifting sounds. This generally remains unchanged since the band was found in 2001. But three years ago, Gonzalez started playing on his own; he split up with his mate Nicolas Fromageau. From this time on, the only thing his art is lacking is progression. But fortunately, his initial soundscape-heavy-style, chosen at the beginning, is deep enough to find room for new nice songs. Some of them were indeed released on a new album Saturdays=Youth.

The electronica project carried by Gonzalez slowly drifts into baroque-pop stylystics and this is probably the reason why he was invited to play with Kings of Leon during their British tour. But remember that M83 is also responsible for remixes of Depeche Mode, Bloc Party and other memorable bands. Influences are moving back and forth, and this Frenchman has some good reasons to play alone: maybe it's easier to remain independent on your own?

M83 - We Own the Sky

(The video is in quite high resolution, so just follow the link).

Artist: M83
Album: Saturdays=Youth (2008)
Track: We Own the Sky
Track Number: 7
Track Length: 5:03
Labels: EMI France (FRA)

Sigur Rós - Hún Jörð

2009-09-01T15:11:00.009+02:00

I don't think that people like to remember how the things were before they became meaningful to them. Today, it's 1st of September: 70 years passed since Germans attacked Poland to begin Second World War. Today, Russian politics were celebrating "our common victory in WWII" in Poland, easily forgetting that they were the greatest Nazi supporters before 22th July 1941. I have no anger for German or Russian people, since it's not a nation, but a goverment, that starts the War. But Mr Putin should eat his words with his tie and admit what Mikhail Gorbachev already admitted years ago: when it comes to case of Poland, Russians were simply war agressors.

OK, enough of the politics. Generally, the rule "forget all what is inconvenient" applies on music too. Sigur Rós, the most admired (and, in my opinion, overrated) band in post-rock history has seeds not many people like to recall. This is because 1) Their debut was not a success 2) They were relentless experimentators before turning into rock (pop?) band. Today, they are popular; but who wants to remember that they were making much more intriguing, demanding things? The pre-Kjartan Sveinsson era was filled with gloom rather than space and electricity rather than guitars. That was how Von went into obscurity where still remains.

Don't get me wrong: I love Agaetis Byrjun, I cannot bash Takk, ( ) or anything else despite they are slightly disappointing. But there was only one Von. And, to remind you, it sounds like this:

Sigur Rós - Hún Jörð

Artist: Sigur Rós
Album: Von (1997)
Track: Hún Jörð
Track Number: 3
Track Length: 7:16
Labels: Smekkleysa (ISL)

Zu - Carbon

2009-08-31T14:21:00.008+02:00

Sometimes I encounter a record which is competely exhausting when played from A to Z, yet consists of stunning compositions. Such uncommon situation is most often caused by incredible richness, intensity and eccentricity of music unleashed on my unprepared, unexpecting ears. Metal bands usually are doing this to me, but not exclusively: after finding Zu I can tell that anything tagged 'experimental' should be handled carefully through loudspeakers.

That's right; their name is Zu, an absurd-looking syllable which describes nothing. They are not from United States, which earns them first plus. They are using bassoon (wow, second plus) melted with disostred bass and start-stop drums (math-rock addicts?). To sum it up, we have: jazz, rock, metal (that's true, they are playing heavy sounds too) and some noise put together. Adding reasonable support from almighty Mike Patton (third plus) results with one more awesome band.

Thankfully, I'm focusing on singles, not albums. 'Carbon' is an energetic shot with quite unique twists and turns. You've noticed those sick drums and now you're looking for full album? OK, but I warned you: this one may be pretty annoying at the first time. Only after giving it a second chance, vou might be rewarded.

Zu - Carbon

Artist: Zu
Album: Carboniferus (2009)
Track: Carbon
Track Number: 3
Track Length: 4:24
Labels: Ipecac Recordings (USA)

Pivot - In the Blood

2009-08-28T12:52:00.009+02:00

In Australia, there are more sheeps than men; and there are more and more ear-catching bands. I've already mentioned some awkward distance-issues, which are limiting success of music played in Oceania. However, when something pops up in that region and manages to stay on the surface, it means it's good. Persistence, persistence, persistence - sometimes, the more they need it the better they become.

As one more math-rock band, Pivot has quite crazy attitude to both music and public image. Their heavily-produced tracks are driven by something I'd call 'digital percussion', if it was ever used there. The website http://pivotpivot.net/ is filled with five letters covering the links to the various stores videos and articles about the band. Having contract with Warp fills up their profile: London label loves freaks all around the world and supports them as hard as possible.

How good it would be to see Pivot live... This time, it looks like I'm late: Kangooroos are playing today in my country on a New Music Festival in Katowice. An unfortunate coincidence: if I only knew it before... I'd have to go for a over 100 miles journey to see them, but that's OK: they are worth doing it. Right now it looks like I must console myself with a video below.

Pivot - In the Blood

Artist: Pivot
Album: O Soundtrack My Heart (2008)
Track: In the Blood
Track Number: 2
Track: Length: 4:37
Labels: Warp (UK)

The Seven Mile Journey - January 4th - The Hypothesis Hours

2009-08-26T21:19:00.006+02:00

During further exploration of gloomy, sneaky, disturbing sounds, I discovered sizable number of good bands and tons of bad ones. Actually, the difference between them is quite small, because they all rely on heavy, repetitive formulas; sometimes being magnificent, sometimes being terrible. All the advantage of 'good' over 'bad' is instrumental synchronization, perfection of the main concept and various quirks at the background.

Based in Aalborg, Denmark, The Seven Mile Journey may be just another post-rock band if they just sat and play guitar melodies that everyone could compose. But in fact, they are doing thing I really love: experimenting with bass layers, shoegaze textures, calm atmosphere... This is kind of music which starts out slow, builds up even slower, but eventually comes to inspiring, powerful finale. Basing more on 'spiritual' than 'straightforward' power, it's really the attitude which catches my attention these days.

Oh, well, I just found out: this guys probably hold a Guiness Record of a band that had the longest period between teaming up and recording anything. Seven Mile's first EP was released seven (what a coincidence) years after they started playing (which happened in 1995). Gosh, screw you music labels for not noticing them before.

The Seven Mile Journey - January 4th - The Hypothesis Hours

Artist: The Seven Mile Journey
Album: The Metamorphosis Project (2008)
Track: January 4th - The Hypothesis Hours
Track Number: 4
Track Length: 8:55
Labels: Conspiracy Records (BEL)

Shellac - Steady As She Goes

2009-08-25T16:58:00.010+02:00

Steve Albini (above, on the left) is the guy whom I like more and more everytime I discover something new about his job. From a prominent sound engineer of Nirvana, Mogwai, Don Caballero (wow, a lot of my favourites!), he recently turned into raging band member by recording his own stuff: first new songs since year 2000. This is probably only temporary switch for a man, who has been so successful at developing style of someone else's bands without even bothering to get credits at CD covers.

Shellac is his band, and it's been around for seventeen years. However, this trio is as weird as their recordings. They are touring only to get a leave from daily job for drummer Todd Trainer (who manages a shipping company) and basist Bob Weston (another master of audio production). When they record something decent, it's usually released in drastically limited number of copies made only for closest friends. That's right - they don't care!

While Albini-producer is a shy, modest guy who runs one of the cheapest professional recording studios in US, Albini-musician is crazy, grunge-agressive leader singing about hate and abuse. The band is using rare, aluminum guitar necks. Metallic sound is an essence of Shellac: a rare thing by the way, because this kind of instruments are quite expensive. At least they know how to make them worth the money spent!

Shellac - Steady As She Goes

For those who like to read about what goes behind the scenes: here is the link to Albini's article about modern ways of spreading music. Cool point of view, isn't it?

Artist: Shellac
Album: Excellent Italian Greyhound (2007)
Track: Steady As She Goes
Track Number: 2
Track Length: 4:06
Labels: Touch & Go (US)

Jakob - Safety In Numbers

2009-08-24T21:03:00.008+02:00

Jakob. Jeff Boyle with guitar, Maurice Beckett on bass and Jason Johnston behind drums. Three guys from New Zealand's city of Napier. Three musicians who are so terribly underrated and so far from European/American scenes, that they still work on daily jobs, despite giving so powerful releases everytime they get into the studio. World is so damn unfair: if this band wasn't based on the other side of the world they'd be already first-class stars of instrumental genre.

Whew... I listened to their music so intensively, that I forgot to post anything about them here. Probably, playing them again, again and again was as natural as breathing and I felt like there is no need to explain who they are and what they do. But actually, it's pretty opposite: unlike many post-rock band, Jakob has his own, astonishing style: complex guitar layers, slow, mesmerizing drumming, intense buildups... Well, everything arranged perfectly and it's somehow based on simple yet hypnotizing rhytms. To top it all up - almost all their songs absolutely crushing!

The variety of choices was enormous: frankly, I could post the whole 'Solace' LP here. Finally, I've picked 'Safety In Numbers', but that doesn't mean it's better than the other ones: as I said, all Jakob songs are simply awesome. Last year Isis took them as a support; hopefully someone will remeber about kiwis and invite them for a tour in Europe this autumn.

Jakob - Safety In Numbers

Artist: Jakob
Album: Solace (2006)
Track: Safety In Numbers
Track Number: 5
Track Length: 7:53
Labels: Midium Records (NZL)

Tomahawk - Mescal Rite 1

2009-08-23T10:33:00.005+02:00

Imagine yourself Tom Waits teamed up with metal band. Or american natives playing progressive music. Sounds impossible? That's what I thought. But there is a guy, who used to turn everything upside-down and hewas born to do impossible things. Just as Mr. Waits, Mike Patton is 'the other one': an artist, who goes his own unique way and simply races with himself after leaving contenders miles behind his back.

This is funny: if you're using Last.fm, tune in and try to listen to the radio tagged 'experimental'. I bet at least four out of ten tracks will be somehow connected with Patton. You'll either stumble on his famous Faith No More, or enjoy Mr Bungle, Fantomas, Peeping Tom, Dillinger Escape Plan... Wikipedia cites no less than 47 albums made by him as a regular band member and uncountable guest appearances. The tempo is incredible: Mike P. started playing in 1985, which gives almost 2 new releases per year!

When it comes to Tomahawk, I'm also quite mad about John Stanier's work (he is that crazy drummer, whom I mentioned while talking about Battles). There is just so amazing 'feel' he gives to the music. LP 'Anonymous' could be renamed 'Tribal' thanks to him. Great, great job, which is a must for all who love experiments.

Tomahawk - Mescal Rite 1

Artist: Tomahawk
Album: Anonymous (2007)
Track: Mescal Rite 1
Track Number: 2
Track Length: 2:53
Labels: Ipecac Recordings (USA)

Riverside - Artificial Smile

2009-08-21T15:58:00.008+02:00

One of the recent guests asked me if I know any interesting Polish bands. Well, when it comes to post-rock, I know only few and not too inventive ones. There are acts like Tides From Nebula, California Stories Uncovered, New Century Classics... Yeah, but nothing too special. Poland is pretty much behind in sound development; this is quickly changing, but it'll take a while before we can compete with Western artists.

But on other areas, Poland has some exceptional stuff. Every hardcore metal lover should know about bands like Behemoth and Vader: they are possibly the most successful music projects between Oder and Western Bug. However, they are both quite far from my music taste. The only one internationally meaningful band left is Riverside: prog-rock threesome from our capital, Warsaw. Led by Mariusz Duda, they used to play intriguing blend of atmospheric rock and metal-like punch. Songs often driven by cooperation of bass and guitar really kick ass!

For today, I've chosen their 'loud' one: 'Artificial Smile' begins like guitar rollercoaster, starts drifting in the middle, then strikes again in their own progressive fashion. OK, I'm not objective here: they are my compatriots anyway. But aren't they awesome?

Riverside - Artificial Smile

Artist: Riverside
Album: Second Life Syndrome (2005)
Track: Artificial Smile
Track Number: 5
Track Length: 5:26
Labels: Inside Out (GER)

Battles - Rainbow

2009-08-20T13:52:00.009+02:00

I'm glad to see at least one, freak-alternative band, making mess in mainstream, clinching New Musical Express 'Best Single of the Week' award and outshadowing most of the boring, predictable indie bands. Somehow, Battles became a band that achieved big success by competing with all these traditional songwriters; a ridiculous coincidence for four guys, who play everything but typical sounds.

I don't know how they did it, but 'Mirrored' was a smooth transition from plain, math-rock underground into ocean of possibilities. More complex than previous EP's, more accessible yet not intentionally polished, it turned into a record balanced between futuristic inventions and old good listeners' room service. With a little help from sick drummer (who used to hang his percussions' cymbal exceptionally high), Battles made math-rock more enjoyable than it ever used to be.

Now, we have 2009, and the question is: where these guys are? Of course, it took four years for them to release first LP, but cm'on, they are inventive, they have unique, still unexplored style: one thing they need is just to write new songs! Listen to 'Rainbow' and ask yourself if I'm right or wrong. I want more Battles!

Battles - Rainbow

Artist: Battles
Album: Mirrored (2007)
Track: Rainbow
Track Number: 6
Track Length: 8:09
Labels: Warp Records (GBR)

Wes Montgomery - D-Natural Blues

2009-08-19T16:08:00.009+02:00

Everything before 1990 is like dark ages for me. I have really tight listening schedule with recent albums and new bands, so I'm not supposed to get more time for exploring old masters. As a result, I'm ignorant when it comes to history of sound. I cannot link any song with names like Deep Purple, Led Zeppelin or Pink Floyd. I don't get why The Beatles were so important. In fact, the only good old band I know is Mark Knopfler's Dire Straits.

That's right, everyting above is true. I have no idea how classic rock n'roll sounds. I missed the evolution of reggae. What pains me most, I had no chance to observe the developement of jazz. My fault; maybe I should try harder and mix classic records with modern ones? One thing I'm sure of: I'll double my efforts in understanding the music of previous generations. And I think it's going to be a lot easier with artists like Wes Montgomery. I dug him accidentally, lured by strange, egocentric title of his album.

He was not kidding: when he's chosen title 'The Incredible Jazz Guitar of Wes Montgomery', you should take it literally. Even sweet piano backup and swing background must bow down before this guitar. Even I must do it. More than forty years after Wes' death, his records are still unequalled; and this makes his premature death even more miserable.

Wes Montgomery - D-Natural Blues

Artist: Wes Montgomery
Album: The Incredible Jazz Guitar of Wes Montgomery (1960)
Track: D-Natural Blues
Track Number: 2
Track Length: 4:48
Labels: Riverside (USA)

Klever - Trip#1

2009-08-18T11:10:00.008+02:00

There must be something special about Russian bands. Each time I listen to the music from the biggest country in a world, I hear wonderful and bold experiments or, at least, tunes which are effectively refreshing existing trends. Russian strength lies in natural talent and that strange 'underground' approach encouraging the experiments. USA has superior numbers and best label industry, but playing in former Soviet Union seems to boost the creativity.

Christine Fadeeva, Sergey Makovka, Pavel Hrabrow and Denis Rusakov. Remember these names: this is Klever, and for me, it's certain they'll make a mame for themselves. A lady playing cello and three guys with guitars, trumpets, bass and drums in their arsenal: it may not sound too original, but they like to incorporate Russian folk inspirations. Resulting sounds are daring, disturbing and atmospheric: more than enough to achieve success one day.

The video below comes from the movie called 'Kytice' - a Czech fantasy tale based on poems by Karel Jaromir Erben. Most of this creations' characters are taken from Slavic mythology and put into strange, dramatic situations. To be honest, this kind of art makes me feel utterly strange; I'm not superstitious at all, yet for a while I believe in fauns, nymphs and rusalkas. Music is definetely recommended, but the movie... Really, I don't know...

Klever - Trip#1

Artist: Klever
Album: In the Name of Peace and Progress (2005)
Track: Trip#1
Track Number: 1
Track Length: 10:14
Labels: Jagi Jagi (RUS)

Magyar Posse - Whirlpool of Terror and Tension

2009-08-17T17:51:00.009+02:00

What to hell is with these band names? What to hell 'Magyar Posse' is? A Hungarian organisation? Yeah, certainly it sounds like that: 'Magyar' means 'Hungarian'. But what hides behind this name has nothing to do with country known best from ridiculously complex language. The whole name is probably a brand of white wine (Hungarian, of course), that inspired five young Fins to start their band. Well, maybe not literally, but there is no better explanation than this.

This is another veteran band. Before Magyar Posse there was Carlos: it's predecessor, which was found in 1997. So, after twelve years of activity, we can hear... three albums made by this band. That's right - only three albums, because Fins love to work and work and work over new songs till they reach the perfection. Being really capable of doing it everytime is a big deal, even with plenty of time to work things out - so I won't be angry with them and their laziness.

Quality over quantity, ladies and gentleman: very first video for this band has won three big music prizes in Finland, along with People's Choice Award. Simple in concept, yet marvellous at execution, it's a little masterpiece of animation. Year 2009 is the third one since Magyar Posse released last album; I'm waiting for more, soon!

Magyar Posse - Whirlpool of Terror and Tension

Artist: Magyar Posse
Album: Random Avenger (2006)
Track: Whirlpool of Terror and Tension
Track Number: 1
Track Length: 5:50
Labels: Verdura Records (FIN)

Derek Duke & Glen Stafford - Zerg Theme

2009-08-16T20:35:00.012+02:00

Today, I've chosen something a bit different. As a huge Starcraft fan, I spent countless hours playing this game. However, I used to play it with music being switched off: sometimes, it was a bit distracting. So, day after day, I slowly forgot how entertaining these tracks were. I'd say Derek Duke and Glen Stafford could could easily get their own successful band - if only they were not employed in amazing Blizzard company.

I personally play Terran, who has probably the most energetic sountrack of all three Starcraft races. But I must admit, that the most climatic, droning and heavy tracks belong to Zerg - a nightmary, merciless race from volcanic planet called Char. Those critters, very similar to well-known Aliens from Ridley Scott's movie, are relentless slayers of anything that lives in the name of mysterious Overmind: their ultimate master and leader.

Whatever one may feel about the Zerg, it was all caught by this music. Enjoy it while you can: there may be a Hydralisk hiding behind your back!

Derek Duke & Glen Stafford - Zerg Theme:

And, as a little bonus, secret Zerg song. Serve the Hive!

Radio Free Zerg:

Artist: Derek Duke & Glen Stafford
Album: Starcraft Soundtrack (2000)
Track: Zerg Theme
Track Numbers: 15, 16 & 17
Track Length: 8:37
Labels: Blizzard (USA)

Bloc Party - Compliments

2009-08-14T18:30:00.010+02:00

Um... Despite my faith in internet users is generally low (almost drained through last years), I recently realized that some over-30.000-views videos on YouTube are not that bad as I expected. Actually, I've changed my mind a bit: when something has views counted in thousands it may be good from time to time; depressing and devastating rubbish starts from 1 million viewers up. It may be a bit paranoid, but I promised myself not to add my own 1 view to all this cinematic bullshit that is posted - just to satisfy my private sence of democracy.

As I said, from time to time I can comfort myself. That's exactly when I find good stuff which is doomed to achive commercial success. Bloc Party used to be such band; after turning into one of the hottest indie groups ever, they suffered hard, hard failure with every single new album being worse that their previous one. However, they still are one of the few 'rockers for teenagers', who I'm not ashamed to listen to after years of audio-self-improvement. Since they stood the test of time, I guess they're just simply goodat what they are (were?) doing.

So here it is: an ending to their most approved album: Silent Alarm. Unlike previous songs it's very... relaxing. Really, this sounds like Kele Okereke had no more power to yell in anger at the end of recording session. Thankfully!

Bloc Party - Compliments

Artist: Bloc Party
Album: Silent Alarm (2005)
Track: Compliments
Track Number: 13
Track Length: 4:42
Labels: Wichita (GBR)

Gojira - Oroborus

2009-08-13T15:11:00.008+02:00

I hate metal. Really. It's not because all that noise makes me tired. It's because the whole agression, brutality, violence, or however you may call it, often has no point. It's OK when someone is playing loud as long as it's not only for purpose of covering weaknesses of compositions. And of course, if you're going to play 'eventful' music wit lot of riffs, drumming, growling, etc. it's much bigger chance you may fuck something up, subesquently destroying intended effect.

But nowadays, metal is unavoidable. As one of the most expansive genres, it has tons of hardcore fans and significant influence on other genres. While the trends are more and more mixing with each other, I give more and more respect to this scene. Metal is not my cup of tea, but when I get into 'listen without prejudice' mood, I don't mind to listen how they want to destroy me. More than often, it's just a waste of time - yet one song in a million can probably draw my attention.

Gojira has this kind of rock power and metal intensity, which is fine with me. I'd say it's more energetic and rhytmic than disturbing. In short, these roars make sence, drumming is executed properly and band does not destroy it's plain but good conception by messing up with more volume, more bass, more antyhing unnecessary else. Maybe they love rock formula too much to be just 'straight' metal band?

Gojira - Oroborus

Artist: Gojira
Album: The Way Of All Flesh (2008)
Track: Oroborus
Track Number: 1
Track Length: 5:21
Labels: Listenable (FRA)

Grails - Silk Rd

2009-08-12T19:00:00.009+02:00

It's amazing - whenever I spot no-name band which catches my eye, it turns out that it's already an old, experienced team of persistent musicians, who kept playing for years despite moderate success. It may be an evidence that everything need to go through maturing process to become unique; or, infamously, that culture mainstream gives no chance to bands like Grails.

These guys are quite big fishes - certainly bigger than I expected. After six years of creative work, they've just released seventh album, not to mention three EP's recorded in the meantime. What makes them even more intersting is that they worked with six labels: a fact that of course could mean they are often come into conflicts with their bosses. But, in disbelief, I think they just like trying new things under another auspicies. If not, what would make their music so much distinctive?

Albums like 'Burning Off Impurities' need to grow on it's listener to even start giving some sonic pleasure. It's definitely long process, but an enjoyable one. After beeing initially sceptical about this one, I was patient enough to keep it playing, which finally paid off. Do the same and you may find yourself grails like this one.

Grails - Silk Rd

Artist: Grails
Album: Burning Off Impurities (2007)
Track: Silk Rd
Track Number: 3
Track Length: 8:14
Labels: Temporary Residence (USA)

Hammock - Blankets of Night

2009-08-11T15:36:00.011+02:00

Out there, we have two musicians, who ultimately mixed post-rock guitars, mellow ambience and infinite space of downtempo inspirations. What's more striking, they've never gave us poor record, despite five years of high-speed activity. Is it unrecognized genius of Marc Byrd and Andrew Thompson that allowed that, or maybe a synergy effect behind their composing collaboration? I really have trouble with choosing either option; in fact I'd rather pick both of them.

Hammock is a real deal. It's a band, which Jón Birgisson likes. It's a band, which has been opening concert of Riceboy Sleeps - probably one of the most intersting co-production in the whole genre. Actually, Hammock could be also called this way: sometimes these guys lose some balance between post-rock and ambient, but when they keep it, it's like gazing on clear night sky from horizontal perspective of your own... hammock.

As I said, it's been only five years since they started playing, but the album 'Kenotic' feels like it always existed, yet was somehow hidden from my ears. In fact, I used to misjudge the latter songs on this CD, finding them poor in comparison to the first ones. But frankly, which song wouldn't sound 'poor', listened after this one?

Hammock - Blankets of Night

Artist: Hammock
Album: Kenotic (2005)
Track: Blankets of Night
Track Number: 4
Track Length: 7:59
Labels: Hammock Music (USA)

The Mercury Program - You Yourself Are Too Serious

2009-08-10T17:55:00.007+02:00

It's a bit disappointing that the term 'soft rock' has been already taken by some almost-fainting female vocalists. Now it's hard to describe a bunch of obscure bands, who are sneaking between nobleness of jazz and catchiness of rock. This is music which is not going to give you nightmares or exhaust you with it's haunting power, but listening to it in a car or during work easily makes your day. And while it's original as well, who'd ask for more?

The Mercury Program is an old story - twelve years old outfit with four longplays released so far. However, their efforts were severly interrupted by long hibernation, started on the latter half of 2003. That was a strange turn of events, since album 'A Data Learn the Language' recieved a lot of approval from both listeners and critics. Good for us that this hiatus in their history is already over: new LP titled 'Chez Viking' will be released soon by Lovitt Records.

So, before it happens, it's better to know how mercurians used to play in the past. To be honest, I found their most recognizable album boring before I reached this song. Were all previous ones poor? Or this one is exceptional? I don't know, but possibly I just have to listen to them all again. And I advise you to do the same.

The Mercury Program - You Yourself Are Too Serious

Artist: The Mercury Program
Album: A Data Learn the Language (2002)
Track: You Yourself Are Too Serious
Track Number: 6
Track Length: 5:23
Labels: Tiger Style (USA)

Lights Out Asia - Psiu! Puxa!

2009-08-07T18:46:00.009+02:00

"...Infusing the sensibilities of indie rock, moody electronics and dream pop into cinematic spaces..." Did someone just described everything I like in music? Almost. Actually, it is a short statement made by members of Lights Out Asia, about their music ambitions. As simple as the webiste they come from, these words speak for themselves.

A ridiculous yet inventive band name explains it double: these guys know how to play spacy music. It's so-called ambient, downtempo, dream-pop or shoegaze, but frankly, the key is space; a calm, relaxing, uplifting mood that occasionally turns into weird, synthetic vocalisations. Lights Out Asia does not pretend to sound natural, so maybe they aren't 'ambient' band at all, but in their hands, the overflowing electronics are turning into top-class soundscapes.

Did I forget to mention? Oh, yes I did. LOA consists of two former members of Aurore Rien: an old and currently inactive post-rock outfit. To be more specific, there are Chris Schafer and Mike Ystad, who still play music despite their previous band crash. As one of the Last.fm users pointed out "These guys are clearly more talented and interesting than a lot of similar projects with way more listeners. Strange."

Lights Out Asia - Psiu! Puxa!

Artist: Lights Out Asia
Album: Eyes Like Brontide (2008)
Track: Pisu! Puxa!
Track Number: 4
Track Length: 5:31
Labels: n5MD (USA)

Kyte - Planet

2009-08-06T17:45:00.005+02:00

Let me say it straight - Sigur Rós went absolutely wrong. Sorry for all fanboys, supporters, and enthusiasts: the Icelanders have lost most of their epic instrumental powers and a new style they present is by no means convncing. OK, OK, maybe I'm just tired of hearing Jónsi's vocals, but even them are not that much fitting into his music as they used to be.

When old lions forgot how to bite, it's time for young ones to replace them. But actually, there are no acts I can call 'emerging'. I mean, there are no bands close to Sigur Rós' position, no young teams that were around for a while and at least made a name for themselves. I guess the whole genre is too young to produce S-class stars frequently. So... at least there are few promising no-name musicians, who may do it in three or five years. Who knows? the Icelandic legacy is too unique to emulate it, but incorporating some elements does no harm, as Kyte gently presents.

As one may expect, the comparisons above lead to the conclusion, that these British kids try to mix muscular buildups with infinite bliss. That's it, not too much to add, except the vocals, which sound like filtered by sampling machine. Since they are for real ,and they support nice composer's efforts, it seems we've already found a band we've all been waiting for to make a swap on post-rock throne.

Kyte - Planet

Artist: Kyte
Album: Kyte (2008)
Track: Planet
Track Number: 1
Track Length: 7:11
Labels: Kids Records (UK)

Mono - Are You There?

2009-08-05T17:04:00.011+02:00

Looking back into the past, it's hard to believe that there was so much room for new post-rock bands, which sounded very similar to each other. Uncountable number of acts were completely unable to create their own style and greeted us with doubtful prize of worthless albums. The attempts continue to this day and, to my least pleasure, I often encounter music of no invention, climate, flow or melody. Boredom is the greatest threat for all post-rock fans and sadly, it's more rule than exception.

But well, whatever, let's talk about those, who had enough flair to distinguish themselves. Year 2000 saw birth of Mono - Japanese four-piece group from metropolis of Tokyo. Some obvious geographic issues could kill any ambitious project, but Takaakira Goto, a lone band founder, was determined to make use of his outstanding talent. Soon he found good company, and the work has started. Step by step, Mono developed from obscure and ordinary band, to one of the greatest post-rock musicians with both unique style and extraoridinary live abilities.

The thing that makes Mono so good is instrumental mastery turned into subtle, etherical style of guitar play. Rarely one may see a band that is so much in control of soudscape mood. Mono is just unique, and fortunately, it's still releasing new creations; recently under title Hymn To the Immortal Wind.

Mono - Are You There?

Artist: Mono
Album: You Are There (2006)
Track: Are You There?
Track Number: 4
Track Length: 10:22
Labels: Temporary Residence (USA)

Mooncake - Novorossiysk 1968

2009-08-04T10:09:00.009+02:00

Yesterday, I wrote a word or two about obscure music inventors. Now it's time for their apprentices, who so far did nothing really innovative, but managed to improve already existing paths. Actually, the internet era moved the disciples thousands miles away from their masters and then, curiously, reunited both through MySpace contacts and gigs around the world.

Long ago, there were masters of no-vocal melancholy, plain gutar melodies and slow tempoes. They formed in Austin, Texas, to explore quite simple, yet entertaining idea of atmospheric music for everyone. That is how Explosions In the Sky rose to prominence and contibuted to post-rock by recording six important albums in ten eventful years. Unfortunately for us, these cowboys turned step-by-step into very much regressive band by coming close to perfection at copying their own achievements. Clearily, the art needed some fresh blood.

And here it is, under the sign of Mooncake, an unexpected Moscow reinforcement for US. colleagues. With faster pace, more guitar noise and intense build-ups, they simply surpassed the Texan masters. I never thought Russia can climb above America, but things you'll see below force me to change my mind.

Mooncake - Novorossiysk 1968

Artist: Mooncake
Album: Lagrange Points (2008)
Track: Novorossiysk 1968
Track Number: 7
Track Length: 5:53
Labels: Cavity Records (USA)

Xiu Xiu - Boy Soprano

2009-08-03T10:52:00.009+02:00

Taking risks is something I really admire when it comes to bands, genres and concepts. All music inspired by the past and similar to the things recorded years ago - it's fine, I won't complain about it. Relying on old good ideas is often more than satisfying, but crossing the line to meet unexpected means much more. Artists who step into unfamiliar terrain are usually bad at execution of their brilliant ideas; yet they are good at pushing progress further. Sometimes they all end up forgotten in shadows of those who exploited their concepts, but the oblivion is really, really undeserved.

I'm asking myself what's the future of psychodelic indie project, the marvellous Jamie Stewart's Xiu Xiu. Will he end up fullfilled and appreciated just as his freak friends - Devendra Banhart and Animal Collective? Or, more probably, he is going to remain a hidden trend-setter only for someone in the know. With eight albums recorded and ten years of activity there is no sign of mainstream breakthrough. Do they even need it? I don't think so. They are noise lovers after all. This simple fact attaches them to underground.

So nevermind, let the chaos display itself in Boy Soprano's crazy cacophony. Here is a song that denies a definition of a hit and still is one: the one which you'll probably never here in radio.

Xiu Xiu - Boy Soprano

Artist: Xiu Xiu
Album: The Air Force (2006)
Track: Boy Soprano
Track Number: 2
Track Length: 3:22
Labels: 5 Rue Christine (USA)

The Evpatoria Report - Eighteen Robins Road

2009-07-31T14:32:00.007+02:00

Godspeed You! Black Emperor. These four words and an exclamation mark among them were inspiring new post-rock bands all around the world. Their combination of weirdness, intensity and sheer narration serving as lyrics has no reasonable competition to this day. In fact, it's often depressing to see GY!BE's imitators, who have little to no understanding what is it all about.

But hopefully, there are also musicians, for whom word 'inspiration' does not necessarily means 'duplication'. Some of them are currently teamed in strange-name outfit - The Evpatoria Report. Actually 'Evpatoria' is both name of the asteroide, and an Ukrainian city, where big astronomic laboratory was build. The connections are self-evident: though TER is exploring 'Canadian formula', they are certainly leaving more room for so-called space rock effects.

Anyway, kudos to them for having enough coherent ideas to put into +15 minutes tracks without making me feel it's all artificial. Additionaly, shame on YouTube for allowing 10 minute videos only with just little exceptions. But for all patient listeners, Evpatorians prepared possibly one of the best quarters possible:

The Evpatoria Report - Eighteen Robins Road (pt.1):

The Evpatoria Report - Eighteen Robins Road (pt.2):

Artist: The Evpatoria Report
Album: Maar (2008)
Track: Eighteen Robins Road
Track Number: 1
Track Length: 16:53
Labels: Get A Life! (SUI)

Aereogramme - Exits

2009-07-30T21:01:00.014+02:00

Balancing on the edge between popular and independent music without crossing the line is probably the most difficult thing for musicians to do - and possibly, the most entertaining when it's executed with grace. When a band manages to extract the best features of typical indie-rock and surround it with their own kind of sensitivity, the music suddenly steps on another level of quality. Although such exceptional achievement may never be repeated, the taste of creative victory remains in every listeners' stomach.

However, reality is a merciless beast. Soon we will meet the second anniversary of Aereogramme's fall. Split up on August of 2007, this Scottish outfit left us with four inspiring releases; each one better than it's predecessor. Reasons of disbanding were prosaic: lack of money and constant trouble with health of vocalist's throat. In view of that, we may once again appreciate things we were robbed of: more shows and CD's of truly talented four.

So today, as a solace, just small sample of their abandoned magic. I'm not saying it's a genuine track, but I can't deny it's a very good one. Awesomeness lies in simplicity, and Aereogramme knew it. Sad that there were not enough people, who simply supported it.

Aereogramme - Exits

Artist: Aereogramme
Album: My Heart Has A Wish That You Would Not Go (2007)
Track: Exits
Track Number: 3
Track Length: 4:16
Labels: Chemikal Underground (SCO)

Balmorhea - Lament

2009-07-29T19:44:00.008+02:00

It's definitely not easy to be an acoustic piano-ambient band and stay on a level of originality for a long time. The options are often limited: you are expected to play gentle, simple sounds which soon become each others' copies. Success is limited too: you're not recognized as a 'real' classical music composer, and even a capacious alternative scene won't apprecitate your efforts. Of course unless you have imagination comparable with Balmorhea.

The idea was plain: to cross the gap between humble folk, warm electronica and contemporary classics. Add banjo here and cello there, stay on 'unplugged' mode and yet be creative. Results? Well, thankfully, balmorheans avoided pure laziness of all minimalistic artists who make people fall asleep. I'd say they've recored something more than just another CD to use during Saturday siesta. Songs from 'Rivers Arms' are somewheat demanding: without cerain degree of attention they won't pay back for the time spent with them.

'Lament' is possibly the best track to begin with. Melodiously convincing from the beggining and a bit catchy in it's melancholic way, it leaves just the same little pleasant impression that only good songs may provide. Since Balmorhea is not pretending to write pseudo-epic tracks I'm content to see one more band far from being fussy.

Balmorhea - Lament

Artist: Balmorhea
Album: Rivers Arms (2007)
Track: Lament
Track Number: 2
Track Length: 3:37
Labels: Western Vinyl (USA)

The Kilimanjaro Darkjazz Ensemble - Pearls for Swine

2009-07-28T17:57:00.003+02:00

If I had no idea what The Kilimanjaro Darkjazz Ensemble is, I'd say that someone just composed the music for an oldschool horror movie and released it as independent album. I'd say it was one man, probably inspired by Angelo Badalamenti, but certainly younger and more attached to electronic effects. In the end, I'd probably be curious if the movie is good enough to compete with it's sound supplement.

Alas, there is no movie at all. TKDE indeed plays visual songs, but this time it's not one-man project. Consisting of six people, it incorporates gloomy, slow elements of modern jazz into hypnotic ambient backgrounds. It's creations are often driven by trombone or cello. With certain support from originally arranged percussion, these song turn into disturbing journey which is executed in a brilliant way. Though they are not shunning from trip-hop inspirations, creeps are the things that TKDE is out to make. Trust me - it works.

So, my dear compatriots: these guys are finally going to play in Poland! It's already confirmed: 9th of December 2009 is the date. 'Blue Note' in Poznań is the venue. For all climate lovers this Kilimanjaro is the must to climb.

The Kilimanjaro Darkjazz Ensemble - Pearls for Swine

Artist: The Kilimanjaro Darkjazz Ensemble
Album: The Kilimanjaro Darkjazz Ensemble (2006)
Track: Pearls for Swine
Track Number: 2
Track Length: 5:50
Labels: Planet Mu (GBR)

Tera Melos - Last Smile for Jaron

2009-07-27T09:38:00.013+02:00

There were days when I thought Depeche Mode was alternative band. There were days when I thought The White Stripes did the best thing that ever happened to rock music. And until yesterday, there were days I thought Battles play weird songs. Today, I stand corrected. Let me introduce a team of absolute freaks, drug-addict psychoes and digital abusers - Tera Melos.

Imagine yourself some kind of utterly baroque sound, which is incorporating electronic beeps simulating avant-jazz effects mixed with punk-rock dynamics starting and stopping completely against the rules of composing with all this things swimming in tons of multiplied-vocals sauce. I know the sentence above has very little meaning, excuse me. But I was just trying to mimic Tera Melos' style during writeup. OK, now I stop; it's beyond me.

This, however, may be the end of this band's style as we knew it before. After recent drummer switch, they are about to release a new album. This year's fall will be John Clardy's moment of rise (or fall :-). The expectations are high; I hope he possesses sick agility and endurance, because that's what you need when you're playing with these madmans.

Tera Melos - Last Smile for Jaron

Artist: Tera Melos
Album: Complex Full of Phantoms (2007)
Track: Last Smile for Jaron
Track Number: 3
Track Length: 6:29
Labels: Sargent House (USA)

Exxasens - Polaris

2009-07-25T15:26:00.011+02:00

Post-rock has been losing dynamics from the day it was found. It's creators never stopped drifting into jazz, electronica or experimental harbours and few heroes left on the field of battle for groove switched to either metal heavyness or math-rock insanity. Of course it was all acroding to old rule: be original or die. But as a result, riffs and rythms were no longer a driving force for evolving genre.

Under these circumstances, it is twice delightful to find an artist who simply loves to rock without lyrics. Jordi Ruiz, a talented Spanish guitarist and producer has chosen quite straightforward formula. He simply filled debut album 'Polaris' with old-fashioned walls of sound supported by high-speed drumming. However, things are not as simple as they may seem: in fact this release is mainly a digital creation. To make it clear: only guitars here are real; the rest was made by computers supported with human creativity.

The results are a bit confusing: Ruiz's music sometimes reaches the shores of greatness, but sometimes falls prey to it's repeatability. However, his very first track sounds good enough to get into my mp3 player and remain there for couple of weeks. Or maybe even longer?

Exxasens - Polaris

Artist: Exxasens
Album: Polaris (2008)
Track: Polaris
Track Number: 1
Track Length: 4:23
Labels: Exxasens (ESP)

Kwoon - Blue Melody

2009-07-24T18:03:00.002+02:00

It's not easy to get any informations about Kwoon. Their official site is full of photos such as the one above; it proudly announces new album on 2009 as well as some gigs at Paris. But curiously, there are no signs of members' bio, and band history has been omitted as well. Maybe it's a kind of strategy or maybe the team is being atypically modest about it's achievements.

OK, so it's me to provide suitable info. Kwoon comes from Paris and consists of seven members. Apart from three guitars, they are using bass, cello, drums and keyboard. Unfortunately for abroad listeners, the band is almost exclusively touring France, with just a couple trips to Switzerland, Germany and Netherlands. Sigur Rós analogies are obvious for anyone, who already listened to Kwoon. It's like a synonym to word 'atmospheric'.

Their very first single has been promoted by absolutely amazing video...

...but instead of it, I've chosen the other track from 'Tales And Dreams'. It's probably adequate to describe Kwoon's style, but it's virtually nonexistent on the internet. Finally, you'll hear it below:

Kwoon - Blue Melody (play on Deezer.com)

Artist: Kwoon
Album: Tales And Dreams (2006)
Track: Blue Melody
Track Number: 3
Track Length: 6:05
Labels: Kwoon (FRA)

Skindred - Rude Boy For Life

2009-07-22T19:00:00.021+02:00

How crazy genre mixes can be? Metal and hip-hop? No problem, Rage Against the Machine did it few years ago. Metal and ambient? Hmm, check out Ayreon or Ulver and you'll see it already exists. Metal and reggae? Oh, well, I had no idea about it till the day I've heard about Skindred. Usually I hate to post the emoticons around, but here I'll make an exception: O_o.

There was a high risk of an epic failure. This kind of music lies not far from melodic hardcore, which is currently conquered by innumerable poor and hopeless bands. Fortunately, four-piece team from Newport have avoided the pitfalls. When they show metal agression, it's well calculated and fits into song structure. They switch it into reggae groove at right moments. And, from time to time, they add some tricky weirdness from, that makes them less predictable.

Recently, I'm lucky to dig bands which that recently released new stuff or they are about to do so. Skindred is not an exception: 'Shark Bites and Dog Fights' is coming soon, exactly at 1th of September. Uff, it looks like I'll be so busy listening this autumn.

Skindred - Rude Boy For Life

Artist: Skindred
Album: Roots Rock Riot (2007)
Track: Rude Boy For Life
Track Number: 7
Track Length: 4:08
Labels: Bieler Bros (USA)

Jesu - Silver

2009-07-22T15:33:00.009+02:00

Shortly before his 40th birthday, Justin Broadrick is a right person to get a career summary. Converted from avant-metal into post-rock religion, this guy's contribution to music world is just enormous: twenty albums, eighteen EP's and countless guest-star appearances. Through 26 years of composing activity, Broadrick's music evolved from heavyweight noise to dark, mesmerizing ambient, created under Final sign.

Somwhere in the middle of his way, he came up with marvellous project called Jesu. A difficult situation has occured: at this time his previous band, famous Godflesh, has disbanded, and Justin had virtually no support during the work on the first Jesu's EP 'Heartache'. Despite great difficulties Jesu kept going; it managed to survive and it still exists. It's most recent release: 'Infinity', popped out a month ago.

It's simply impossible to illustrate all huge Broadrick's achievements in one track. But since I want to try, I'm picking 'Silver' as my favourite. Driven by both melody and disostrion, it's a pure shoegaze trance, which has been achieved from time to time by My Bloody Valentine and Ride. Still, it's hard to compare these with Jesu; Justin always used to be one step ahead of his folowers.

Jesu - Silver

Artist: Jesu
Album: Silver EP (2006)
Track: Silver
Track Number: 1
Track Length: 6:46
Labels: Hydra Head (GBR)

Don Caballero - Mmm Acting, I Love Me Some Good Acting

2009-07-21T10:34:00.013+02:00

Sometimes, it takes only a skilled drummer and talented guitarist to create new level of music experience. You don't even have to call their performances 'sick' (although it helps), all they need is just to sit down in studio and argue with each other. If they are good enough, they'll soon start cooperating. Then it will quickly turn out, that the harder they argued, the better the effect is.

It's nice to know that some of them really can't live without such creative tension. Don Caballero's Damon Che certainly belongs to this group. Despite the frequent collaboration with various acts, 'The Don' has always been his beloved child. It was revitalised after three years of silence, in 2003. Curiously, the staff has changed, but the dynamics, groove, harmonies and precision remained exactly the same: Perfect.

Being slightly heavier than the previous albums, 'World Class Listening Problem' saw light of a day in metal-focused label Relapse. Teamed with Napalm Death, Nile, Nasum and Mastodon producers, 'Dons' have added some agressive spice to the songs. That's fine with me; Signore Caballero, I'm asking for more.

Don Caballero - Mmm Acting, I Love Me Some Good Acting

Artist: Don Caballero
Album: World Class Listening Problem (2006)
Track: Mmm Acting, I Love Me Some Good Acting
Track Number: 1
Track Length: 5:54
Labels: Relapse (USA)

Bersarin Quartett - Mehr Als Alles Andere

2009-07-20T12:27:00.007+02:00

Damn. It looks like German music market lacks only a good promotion support. This country is possibly the biggest sleeping music monster I know. I'd incur a huge debt of gratitude for any loaded label, which would like to wake it up. Actually, I already have a little sum to pay into Lidar hands for providing me this tune.

Listening to Bersarin Quartett makes you think it's a classical music ensemble that incorporated laptops, mixers and loops to their arsenal. Not so. In true spirit of modern times, the electronica conquers all these tracks more than you can imagine. Sometimes it sounds as a real violin or cello just to fool you a bit.

After being caught by surprise, here is another one: this 'quartett' consists of only one man: Thomas B, a mysterious artist from Münster. Completely anonymous, but certainly influenced by Jóhann Jóhannsson and Takaharo Kido he is out to create bliss, relaxing atmosphere as his imaginative electronics are drifting in a warm mood. Since the title means "More Than Anything Else" I'll only say that it's a proper name for a proper track.

Bersarin Quartett - Mehr Als Alles Andere

Artist: Bersarin Quartett
Album: Bersarin Quartett (2006)
Track: Mehr Als Alles Andere
Track Number: 10
Track Length: 5:47
Labels: Lidar (GER)

Kinski - The Wives of Artie Shaw

2009-07-19T01:01:00.009+02:00

Seattle was somehow devastated by Nirvana. The legacy of Kurt Cobain's eventful life and death remains as a shadow over all bands from windy and wet state of Washington. And, what's worse, noone seems to listen to the successors of grunge even when they are not afraid of comparisons to their predecessors.

Hopefully, there is a light into this tunnel, and it's called Sub Pop. That's right - an old good life belt for all starving acts. A label that was supposed to get ruined and quit years ago somehow still manages to survive thanks to determination of Jonathan Poneman. It used to save promising artists from inevitable demise. And it saved Kinski for my eyes and ears.

A piece of crazy energetic rock is very refreshing. The video might not be too impressive, but I'm pretty sure that leading gutar's effects will soon drive you crazy. If you doubt it, know that jazzman Artie Shaw had eight wives during his big life, and this may be a kind of sign how much is happening in this track.

Kinski - The Wives of Artie Shaw

Artist: Kinski
Album: Alpine Static (2005)
Track: The Wives of Artie Shaw
Track Number: 2
Track Length: 3:41
Labels: Sub Pop (USA)

Tortoise - Glass Museum

2009-07-16T19:49:00.017+02:00

For me, Tortoise has always been a big fish that deserved bigger pond. With almost twenty years of their history and ten groundbreaking releases, they have not recieved as much recognition as they should. Maybe because they always refrained from quiet-loud form, which imprisoned so many other artists? Certainly numerous music voltas during their career had some influence too.

How amazing Tortoise was in 1996, when they started a self-made soundscape revolution? Well, it's beyond the words. One may call them a jazz group influenced by rock, the other might argue that they were actually rockers without lyrics, but noone can deny how prominent 'Millions Now Living Will Never Die' is - even today.

The only thing is still questionable: if McEntire and his mates visited any kind of glass museum before composing 'Glass Museum'? If the answer is 'yes', then I'm voting for building more of these buildings in my city. Or, if it's only tradition of getting weird but aproppriate names to instrumental tracks, I can only try to imagine a better name to this one:

Tortoise - Glass Museum

Artist: Tortoise
Album: Millions Now Living Will Never Die (1996)
Track: Glass Museum
Track Number: 2
Track Length: 5:29
Labels: Thrill Jockey (USA)

French Teen Idol - Shouting Can Have Different Meanings

2009-07-15T18:33:00.013+02:00

I'm not a French citizen. I'm not a teen either. Looks like French Teen Idol won't be my idol at all. But fortunately, I don't mind not having that kind of idol as long as I can hear good music made by artist, who has chosen that nickname. And so far, he does his job quite flawlessly.

As you might have expected, FTI has nothing to do with France. He is an Italian ambient creator. His name: Andrea Di Carlo. His style: spacy, relaxing ambient with certain influences of melancholy. He is around for more than four years, being hardly recognized by anyone, but people heavily devoted to this kind of music. It seems that there are not many that devoted fans in Italy, though. As a result, French Teen Idol's debut had to be released by Canadian netlabel to finally see the light of the day.

Mr Di Carlo deserved his chance. Rating ambient music has never been easy, but this Italian guy somehow managed to create some catchy soundscapes and mix them with adequate words, taken mostly from various movies or radio transmissions. And, by the way, if his first album sounds like that, what can be on the third one, which was recently released?

French Teen Idol - Shouting Can Have Different Meanings

Artist: French Teen Idol
Album: French Teen Idol (2005)
Track: Shouting Can Have Different Meanings
Track Number: 1
Track Length: 7:50
Labels: Nishi (CAN)

Bohren & der Club of Gore - Constant Fear

2009-07-13T16:39:00.008+02:00

Strange. Whenever I think 'German music' I see only No Angels' or Sarah Connor's idiotpop flashing before my eyes. Sometimes, I see also rather ugly Rammstein or power metal epigones like Blind Guardian, Helloween... Or absolutely tasteless Scooter... But I hardly can visualize myself good German music. I know there are Tangerine Dream, Kraftwerk and many more, but they seem not enough to overcome my prejudices.

OK, maybe it's me, who have a problem. Maybe I'm just a hidden germanophobe. However, I see a chance to change my unconcious point of view. It's Bohren & der Club of Gore who may turn everything upside down. Actually, they have everything they need to do it. They are dark. They are slow. They hypnotize. Play them on headphones, without distractions, and you'll get what I mean. If you still don't know: THEY ARE GOOD - that's what I mean.

One may call them 'The Masters of Monotony'. Well, I don't mind. Monotony is great. 'Constant Fear' is a clinical display of monotony's greatness. So, even if you are going to fall asleep with this song being played, rest assured: Bohren & der Club of Gore shall follow your dreams.

Bohren & der Club of Gore - Constant Fear

Artist: Bohren & der Club of Gore
Album: Black Earth (2006)
Track: Constant Fear
Track Number: 7
Track Length: 6:27
Labels: Wonder (GER)

Atlantis - Constantinople

2009-07-13T16:03:00.007+02:00

Famous Plato's Dialogues came up with the idea of Atlantis first, but nowadays, Atlantis is a space shuttle. Atlantis is the nickname of Mexican wrestler. It's a name of Nazi's raider warship during World War II, as well as the name of at least four old video games. In music, Atlantis were both Polish disco-polo band and German rock group (both disgusting). Sun Ra recorded an album called 'Atlantis' Etc. etc...

To hell with it. Right now, the only one who truly deserves to play under this name is talented Dutch musician Gilson C. Heitinga. Heavily influenced with industrial and progressive rock, he started his impressive work nearly four years ago. Initially, it was a movie-soundtrack project. When it turned out, that the movie won't be ever made, Gilson had most of his material finished, and released it as a concept album about feeling of loose. That is how 'Carpe Omnium' hit our ears.

I was not supposed to talk about full albums here, but Heitinga's first release is a pure stroke of genius. Consisting of eight instrumental tracks, it mesmerises and turns into heavyweight trip through unexplored terrain. Melancholic and depressive, those tunes are just perfectly composed with 'Constantinople' being only a little, good example of their greatness.

Atlantis - Constantinople

Artist: Atlantis
Album: Carpe Omnium (2006)
Track: Constantinople
Track Number: 6
Track Length: 7:28
Labels: Field Records (UK)

35007 - Tsunami

2009-07-11T18:18:00.005+02:00

It's both sad and encouraging to think how many bands were going unnoticed before internet gave them a chance. Sad we haven't heard their sound before, encouraging - because it means there are another obscure geniuses waiting out there. Just after digging some of them I felt sorry for the time they had to wait, as well as for big randomness of chance they might get. So, well, I keep digging.

35007 may be still anonymous, despite being active for 15 years and releasing 5 full-length albums with extra 1 EP. But after taking so much practice they have balls of steel and they know what they want to do. Bringing an unusual 'mathematic' approach ('35007' is an beghilos' recording of word 'Loose'), they rock my ears with psychodelic stoner instrumentals. While they are incorporating a lot of unusual, modern screeches, it's all up to guitars to set up some proper heaviness and strenght.

'Tsunami' is so good name for the first track from 'Liquid'. It's scary, it's brutal and beautiful as well. It also contains a little, sneaky surprise inside. Just listen to it and you will know what it means:

35007 - Tsunami

Artist: 35007
Album: Liquid (2002)
Track: Tsunami
Track Number: 1
Track Length: 11:03
Labels: Stickman (GER)

The Samuel Jackson Five - Skinflick Dress Rehearsal

2009-07-10T11:40:00.005+02:00

Titles of instrumental tracks used to be very entertaining since Mogwai started tradition to be creative at this point. The trend is either to choose bombastic, ten-word statements like 'From Today We Shall Nomore Look At The Past', or just to be ironic in a brief manner. It works quite nice, though. Well, actually, maybe both these tactics are just too alluring to not fall for them?

The Samuel Jackson Five is tricking me double. It takes guts to pick such name for a music project, and it's even more funny to see opening track making a good laugh over the porn paranoia. But who would possibly expect, that song called 'Skinflick Dress Rehearsal' is in fact a very, very good mix of jazz and rock? Not me. The swinging guitar, however, did the trick again, and carried me to the place from which there was no turning point. I listened to the end. And again. And again. And again I claim: it's just sooo catchy!

Yeah. And it's all played in the brutal-metal's den: Oslo, Norway. The most expensive capital city of Europe at last gave us something in return. Now that SJ5 went for playing more experimental music, I only pray they could team up together with fellow collective Jaga Jazzist. Maybe one day...

The Samuel Jackson Five - Skinflick Dress Rehearsal

Artist: The Samuel Jackson Five
Album: Easily Misunderstood (2005)
Track: Skinflick Dress Rehearsal
Track Number: 1
Track Length: 5:45
Labels: Honest Abe (UK)

Upcdowncleftcrightcabc+start - The Creeping Fear

2009-07-09T10:24:00.000+02:00

It's rare to see a band without Wikipedia page, hitting the top of The Silent Ballet's 'Song of the Year' list. Even though authors of TSB are content with promoting obscure bands, the one of strange name Upcdowncleftcrightcabc+start (apparently inspired by Sega Mega Drive's cheat code), made impressive breakthrough.

The 2008 'Embers' release is actually a good summary for direction, which Upcdownc... has chosen at 2000's origins. The persistence at mixing standard post-rock with metal and even grunge influences resulted with ten complex, non-repetitive tracks. Some heavy guitars are added there, but don't get fooled: there are still to build up the proper mood. Nevertheless, when Upcdownc... starts playing, you won't confuse it with any other band.

Anyway, there must be something about post-rock albums' closers. I often enjoy them more than anything, and 'The Creeping Fear' is not an exception. Starting with delicate, sad strings, it soon erupts into apocalyptic wave of guitars and textures, that marks the best job since Godspeed You! Black Emperor. 'The Creeping Fear' gives creeps indeed. Constantly...

Upcdowncleftcrightcabc+start - The Creeping Fear (Play on last.fm)

Artist: Upcdowncleftcrightcabc+start
Album: Embers (2008)
Track: The Creeping Fear
Track Number: 10
Track Length: 9:58
Labels: Unsigned Yet (!!!)

Apse - The Crowned

2009-07-08T22:08:00.000+02:00

For some good reasons the more members single band has, the more I trust in quality of it's music. Possibly I'm in a strong belief that discussing new sound ideas with bigger company leads to better conclusions. Or maybe it's a simple fact that more people can create more complex/innovative songs. Whatever it is, stumbling upon band consisting 6 members and 5 former contributors just forces me to check it out.

The band 'Apse' is pretty unique anyway. Although they're hailing from Newtown, Connecticut, they are signed to European labels - British and Spanish. Unlike many modern collectives, they have been for a while, since this year is their 10th anniversary. To top it all up, Apse's creations went rather unnoticed for a very, very long time, and their first LP 'Spirit' was released seven years after first rehearsal somewhere, in CT's garage.

The results are impressive: 'according to it's title, 'Spirit' gives an essence of lo-fi, esoteric rock, while 'The Crowned' is at last a track that fulfills dreams about organic, tribal rock. While Robert Toher sings his pacifist message, you may just get drowned by ingenuity of drums, or get high by some neat guitar shots. A word of warning: it hypnotizes!

Apse - 'The Crowned'

Artist: Apse
Album: Spirit (2006)
Track: The Crowned
Track Number: 6
Track Length: 3:55
Labels: Acuarela Discos (SP) ; ATP Recordings (UK)

The For Carnation - Moonbeams

2009-07-07T21:02:00.000+02:00

Slint's former members are always welcome. Despite this legendary bands' split, it's musicians kept the listeners busy and created the most unique sound of American post-rock of 90's. Most of the job was done under sign of Tortoise, a sign which stood the test of time. But a lot of side projects, that disappeared somewhere along the way, also deserve attention. In fact, some of them even overshadow famous 'turtle' creations, despite being completely forgotten.

The For Carnation is one of them and it's obscure. Really obscure. Try to Google it, and it will surely confuse you, by returning informations about Norwegian Green Carnaton, which sound is pretty opposite. But, speaking about TFC, it's mostly Brian McMahan's tribute to masters of jazz. Narrowly to those, who have been playing in small clubs filled with cigarette smoke at 1.00 AM. Carnation's music goes just this way: slow instrumental background fits into vocalist's whisper, who tells the tales of broken-hearted girls and tragic romances.

Still not very tempting? Well, McMahan guarantees good production, jazz influences guarantee artistic direction. Who needs more, anyway? I don't. For a while, 'Moonbeams' are my absolute thrill.

The For Carnation - Moonbeams

Artist: The For Carnation
Album: The For Carnation (2000)
Track: Moonbeams
Track Number: 6
Track Length: 9:28
Labels: Touch And Go; Domino (US)

Gregor Samsa - Lessening

2009-07-06T22:12:00.000+02:00

A word of explanation for the beginning: this blog will mention the most impressive tunes I've heard in my life. I'm going to write about single songs, not the albums, because I found most albums filled with nothing special, and many obscure bands had just single-tune shot in my head. Generally, I guess it's a sign of times: you can buy single songs on iTunes, stream it somewhere, extract it to favourites, etc.

Anyway: no genre, time, region prejudices here. Though, I admit, I'm mostly into post-rock direction now, I'll give you a scoop to my other impressions as well.

I'm starting up with most recent discovery, a Virginia-based outfit named Gregor Samsa. Born under Franz Kafka's sign, the band walked on the territory recently abandoned by Sigur Rós. One may complain this means lack of innovation, but Gregor Samsa proves otherwise, with calm vocals splitted between male and female singers, and very relaxing guitar layers. I found album-closer 'Lessening' as their best at '55:12', and a perfect example of what I said above. Since the group announced their new album forthcoming, I'm looking forward to praise them again.

Gregor Samsa - 'Lessening'

Artist: Gregor Samsa
Album: 55:12 (2006)
Track: Lessening
Track Number: 8
Track Length: 6:36
Labels: The Kora (US); Own (EU)