The UK Invasion Playlist

As we enter the final days of summer -sigh-and prepare for autumn, it seems about time for a new playlist. What better way to slowly embrace the cooler, grayer impending months of fall than with a set of songs from some fine blokes and birds?

There is something pretty wonderful about bands from the UK. Now granted, as with anywhere else, not all are brimming with loads of talent, many do manage to accomplish the hard task of blending clever hooks and thoughtful lyrics with edgy and creative flare. The UK also seems to have a knack for producing innovative and impressive artists who are constantly breaking the mold.

So grab a pint and some crisps, put a football match on the tele, and enjoy the excellent music spewing forth from this region!

The UK Invasion Playlist:
The Clash: "Police On my Back"
The Vaccines: "If You Wanna"
The Kooks: "Love It All"
Hard-Fi: "Hard to Beat"
Bombay Bicycle Club: "Evening/Morning"
The Verve: "Bittersweet Symphony"
Noah and the Whale: "Hold My Hand As I'm Lowered"
The Foals: "This Orient"
Doves: "There Goes the Fear"
The Go! Team: "Huddle Formation"
Kate Nash: "Pumpkin Soup"
Mumford & Sons: "Hold On to What  You Believe"
Stornoway: "Fuel Up"
Blur: "Girls and Boys"
Santogold: "I'm A Lady"
Coldplay: "Yellow"
Snow Patrol: "Run"
The Subways: "No Goodbyes"
We Were Promised Jetpacks: "This House Is My Home"
Frightened Rabbit: "I Feel Better"
The Joy Formidable: "Whirring" 
Florence and the Machine: "You've Got the Love"
U2: "In the Name of Love"
Mona:  "Teenager"
Arctic Monkey's: "Mardy Bum"
The Buzzcocks: "Ever Fallen In Love"

The Kooks & Viva Brother - Hurricane O'Reilly's Boston, MA - 7/28/2011

The Kooks Live @ Hurricane O'Reilly's

Last night two remarkably talented British bands- The Kooks and Viva Brother- took the tiny stage at Hurricane O'Reilly's courtesy of WFNX Radio to give fans an intimate acoustic experience. It was beyond wonderful. The show was in celebration of local WFNX DJ, Paul Driscoll's "The Nightly News" extending to a two hour time slot (yes!) and a precursor to Viva Brother's live performance at the Brighton Music Hall later in the night.

While the venue is small -it is a bar- it was perfect for this type of show. Fans were crammed in like sardines and they couldn't have been happier about it. There is something awesome about having your balance supported by your fellow music lovers while being so close to a band you can literally reach out and touch them. The bands seem to also relish in the close knit community created at Hurricane.

Viva Brother kicked things off with a smattering of tunes including their current single, "Darling Buds of May". The softening of their edgy Brit-pop was truly enjoyable and further displayed their talents. Their swooning Brit pop and abundant enthusiasm for simply being with their fans was intoxicating and set the stage a night of excellent music.

Viva Brother

Driscoll quickly took the stage to say a few words of thanks to each band and share his excitement for the accomplishments of his show. His joy was shared by many devoted fans who have come to rely on him over the years for the latest in great music. The expansion of his current time slot is a welcomed change by many.

After a few more quick announcements by WFNX, and the throwing out of free station merch, The Kooks made their way, graciously, to the stage. Although the set may have been unplugged, the Brighton natives delivered a performance with driving energy. With hands in the air and smiles wide, the sea of fans sang each lyric and hungrily cried out for more. Old favorites like  "Ooh La" and "Tick of Time" and tracks from their upcoming release including their new single, "Junk of the Heart" made a set list was utterly enjoyable.

The Kooks

They wrapped things up with a new tune and made their way off stage. As Driscoll began his final send off the chants for "One more song" grew louder and louder and the band kindly obliged. They pleased the audience with a incredibly impressive encore consisting of "Seaside" and "Naive". Each flowed out above the crowd and wrapping up the show in a wonderful way.

The joy of the acoustic performance seems to have been lost these days in the haze of overly synthesized, bass driven mega concerts. It is refreshing to artists with such a degree of fame sit down in an intimate setting to play without all the bells and whistles. What's even more refreshing and to see them enjoy it as much as their fans.

New Music! The Avett Brothers: "The Once and Future Carpenter"

The Avett Brothers are back with a new single!. Their latest track further demonstrates their tremendous musical talent and their growth as musicians both individually and collectively.

"The Once and Future Carpenter" is just another example of the beautifully crafted tracks the band is known for. It shows their recent divergence from bluegrass and heavier emphasis on Americana. It is the story of the aimless wanderer, the wayward traveler and a glimpse into new and exciting territory. Rife with emotion, majestic imagery, and expansive and roaming lyrics, it has all the joyous wonders fans know and love.

The Avett Brothers have shown that they have an uncanny knack for making every song on an album one that superior caliber. Since the release of Country Was in 2002, they have produced a truly impressive body of work. They shine on every album with poignant lyrics, clever hooks, and wonderful instrumentation. This new single is a clear indication that the new album will be right on track with this.

There are lot of reasons why the Avett Brothers have cultivated such a devoted fan base. They make music that isn't only lovely and emotionally charged, but well crafted and innovative. They write beautifully profound and relatable lyrics and bring to every single live performance a fresh and endless energy that is intoxicating. They are an utterly remarkable, gracious and passionate group of musicians making music because they love it.

"The Once and Future Carpenter" is sure to impress fans and first time listeners to no end.

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For more great unplugged tracks from this performance visit CMT.

Top 5 Remixes - July 2011

Sometimes there is nothing better than a good remix. It breaks up the monotony, gives you a sense of renewed vigor, and can simply put you in a better mood. Remixes can be fast and heavily laden with synthesis or slower, groovier compositions. There is always that chance that a song can be ruined, its original sound lost in a haze of synthesis and manipulated drum beats, but when it is done right, a remix can be a refreshing take on something you already love. 

Bon Iver: "Skinny Love (Das Kaptial Rerub)" 
It is hard to believe that any remix could do justice to the wonderful sounds of Bon Iver, but this one does. It is definitely one of the best remixes out right now and catchy as hell. The snapping back beats and reverberating synthesis add a new complexity to the already intoxicating track. "Skinny Love" remains endlessly beautiful but with an even more chilling and intriguing atmoshpere. Das Kapital builds with layers of texture and Bon Iver signature crooning vocals.

Tokyo Police Club: "Wait Up Boots of Danger (DOM Remix)"
The first thing you'll love about this remix is the killer 80s flare. Weaved into echoing keyboard notes, bold bass and fast percussion there is something simply wonderful about this track. As the chorus builds the composition seems to pull on the heart strings and fill you with hope. Hope for what I'm not sure, maybe that the song will never end, maybe that you'll be able to dance just a little bit longer. The fine boys of Worcester, MA based DOM have done the track justice in the process further displayed their own talents. This is a remix to include on any playlist.

Florence and the Machine: "You've Got the Love (The XX Remix)" 
It is such a wonderful thing when two excellent bands join forces. Such is the case with The XX's remix of "You've Got the Love". The there is a slow building intrigue fueled by a steady repetition of the chorus. With the cries of Florence, the percussion grows harder and the eerily catchy steel drum explodes. The thing that is so great about this mix is that it retains many of the wonderful things of the original - Florence Welch's vocals and the whimsical harp notes- while still incorporating new and different sounds and textures. The haunting melancholia of the XX meshes beautifully with the power declarations of Florence.

The Wombats: "Kill the Director (CSS Remix)"Yet another example of the awesome power that lies in collaboration. CSS is well renowned for their ability to create a great remix, but their take on "Kill the Director" is superb. It is fast, driving and powerful. there is an intensity, an urgency to the track that builds from decisive percussion, hard synthesis and an impressive use of electronic keyboards and drum machines.  As the chorus begins you'll find yourself singing along with Matthew Murphy, agreeing with his sentiments on the shortcoming of "rom-coms".

Darwin Deez: "Radar Detector (The Loving Hands Remix)" This already infectious tune by the wonderful Brooklyn based band has been slowed down and given a groovy and intoxicating summer vibe. The tropical infusions and intricate percussion is wonderful and Deez's voice is made clearer with the decrease in instrumentation. The love and emotion behind Deez's lyrics is heartwrenchingly evident and the echoing back up vocals are strangely charming.  It is a great take on one of the band's most popular tunes and an essential addition to any summertime mixtape.

Check out the remix here on RCRD LBL

Kurt Vile: "Baby's Arms" - New Video

Kurt Vile's latest album, "Smoke Ring For My Halo", is truly impressive. His edgy and introspective tendencies create layers of sound and emotion that are truly engaging. He blends a fine mixture of classic rock, folk, and indie stylings with pure instrumentation into a work that is both hopeful and dark. He has been compared to many musical greats but retains his identity through his creativity and ingenuity.

Vile has just released the video for "Baby's Arms", the album's opening track and it is rather beautiful. The story of young love, long summer nights, and hope. The video was shot by Todd Cole and filmed entirely on a Windows Phone. The visualization of the song does a wonderful job of further conveying the bittersweet innocence and all consuming nature of first loves.

The album is Vile's second release since signing with Matador Records in 2009 and a clear sign that he- thankfully- isn't going anywhere. 

**Check out my review of "Smoke Ring for My Halo" at Alright I'm Wrong

Pass That Delicious Faux Meat Please: Susty's Vegan Cafe - Northwood, NH

Susty's Cafe

It can be damn near impossible to find delicious vegetarian food, let alone delicious vegan food. Thankfully Susty's Cafe in Northwood, NH has mastered the art of both. And along with serving great food, they offer great cooking classes too!

The small restaurant opened its doors in 1998 and sits at 159 First NH Turnpike. From the road the small gray building doesn't look like much. Step inside however and your transported to a very cool, very hip, artsy world where buying local is preferred and good food is required. There is a wonderful wealth of local artwork on display and for sale and the staff is beyond friendly. They are incredibly informative- if you've never had vegan food before, don't be afraid to ask questions! They've got the answers and are truly eager to share.

If you are new to vegan cooking, the menu can be a bit daunting. The thought of tofu, non-dairy cheese, and barley can be a bit much for normal meat eaters. Not to fear, some tried and true favorites that are not too wild exist on the menu. The the Bean Burger - a delicious patty made from whole grains, beans, and veggies served on a burger bun with a pickle- and the Veggie Avocado Wrap in which loads of veggies and avocado are smothered in a delicious lemon tahini sauce, are just a couple. Can you say yum? There is also a great selection of soups, salads, and appetizers
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Black beans salad, mashed potatoes, whole grain bread, oh yes.

For those who may be more adventurous nothing beats the Tofu Fries as an appetizer. They are beyond delightful and incredibly addictive. Seriously, there is some sort of magic in these deep fried chucks of tofu that will have you instantly hooked.

For an entree go for the Seitan Cutlet. While there are more than a handful of great options here, it can't be beat. Don't know what seitan is? Not to worry, your wonderful waiter/ress will most likely explain it to you like this, "It's the red meat of the fake meat world". You may take pause for a moment, but they are correct. The texture, taste, and cooking style of seitan is very similar to red meat, but it is a far healthier and delicious option. Served with mashed potatoes, vegan gravy, and steam veggies, it is a hearty and mouthwatering meal that will leave you wanting more. That is if you have any room left in your stomach.

Mmm vegan baked goods!

If you do by some wonderful stroke of luck have room, don't skip dessert. First, it is probably the best part of any meal and second, Susty's has a great variety of home baked treats. With cookies, cakes, and pies all on the menu and all available by the slice or the whole shi-bang, it will be hard to pick just one. Each flavor is decided upon daily and baked fresh.

One thing to note is that Susty's is a BYOB establishment. Odd as it may seem, this sort of fits the bill. It is a very do-it-yourself type of place, run by people with a firm belief in serving food that is not only good for the body and soul, but the planet as well. Every ingredient is purchased locally, the produce comes from near by farmers markets and their motto is "At Sustys, we love to nurture and support a compassionate community through specializing in the finest organic, vegan cuisine". Sounds excellent to me.

So take a chance on some faux meat, grab your favorite bottle of wine or your go to brew and prepare to enjoy it with some of the finest food in New Hampshire. You will not only discover a whole new world to your palette, but you may even find yourself considering the wonderful switch to veganism. Well, maybe at least vegetarianism.

For more information visit Susty's Cafe website and Facebook page. 

Hours:

Mon:	11:00 am	-	8:00 pm
Wed - Thurs:	11:00 am	-	8:00 pm
Fri - Sat:	11:00 am	-	9:00 pm
Sun:	11:00 am	-	8:00 pm

Darwin Deez- Brighton Music Hall Allston, MA - 7/16/2011

Darwin Deez

Fans from all geographical locations descended upon the Brighton Music Hall on July 16^th to see Darwin Deez rock the stage and rock he did. The band combined their signature style of well choreographed dance moves, incessant energy, and lovable humor and charm into a wildly energetic and entertaining set. As they prepared to perform, creativity abounded as Deez attempted to open a beer using a Poland Spring bottle; a talent that impressed fans to no end and showed just how creative he can be.

                                                                                       

The show opened with a whacky and impressive dance number set to a splendid mash-up; something that would happen frequently throughout the night. It was part robot and part interpretive with ninja infusions and from that moment on the crowd was smitten. They responded to every question and every prompt. When Deez danced they danced. When he sang, they sang, happy to be able to share this show with him.

The North Carolina native has an uncanny knack for being able to completely engage an audience. With the wink of an eye, an adorable smile and his warm personality he flirts with the crowd and gets them instantly hooked.

The set list was riddled with fan favorites; all the usual suspects were there. “Up in the Clouds” got things started with great energy. Taking a moment to slow things down, the audience helped bring “The Bomb Song” to a collectively sweet and soulful ending. Deez’s normally clear voice was lost in the crowd as everyone loudly sang each lyric to “Bad Day” and enjoying the community sing-a-long, he encouraged them to sing "Radar Detector" to the ones they love. Each song was rife with power and the band's genuine happiness and love of performing was abundantly clear.

Well synchronized dance moves

He took advantage of every moment to speak to the crowd and share with them his plans, stories from the road and his happiness to be in Boston. Noticing at the start of “DNA” that his guitar was out of tune he stopped saying, “This is our third show Boston and I’m not going to play out of tune goddamit”. Everyone appreciated his dedication to putting on a more than excellent show.

An unexpected rhyme session that took place half way through the performance had fans reeling and in a frenzy. The rhymes were superb- clever, crafty, and a little bit sassy. Deez put on display his hip hop talents and the band stood behind him with duck tapped mouths, throwing hands in the air.

The band performed for just over an hour- one packed with loads of energy and upbeat enthusiasm. After wrapping things up, the crowd stood stubbornly and eagerly at the stage chanting for “one more song”. Just when it seemed as if they band would not oblige (as if that would ever happen), they returned to give their fans exactly what they wanted. The encore was a beautiful rendition of “Constellations”. Deez began by sharing his love of Boston and the audience and then encouraged all to sing along with him, which of course they did.

An excellent encore

The jumping, clapping, singing, and cries for more were endless as fans fell even more in love with the New York quartet. The show at BMH was the band’s third venture into Beantown and the final performance on their current tour. Deez is making his way back to North Carolina and getting ready to start his next album. One can only hope that he and his wonderful cohorts, will grace Boston with their presence again very, very soon. 

**photos by Vanessa Bennett

Interview with Rachel Goodrich

Rachel Goodrich is a musical smorgasbord. The Miami native plays pretty much everything, from the guitar to the piano, the ukulele to the glockenspiel. You name the instrument and it is highly likely she play you a tune. She’s an eccentric and energetic individual who makes her passion and love for music abundantly clear- she has even come out with an impressive remix of Johnny Cash's seminal "Folsom Prison Blues". Her new self titled album has just recently been released and while it packs the same wallop of energy it also shows a more personal and reflective side.

Why did you get involved in music?

I grew up around music- my father played guitar, and my grandfather played piano. I started taking lessons at an early age. There was always music around and I just thought it was the stuff that was part of growing up.

Was there ever a point when you thought you might do something different?

Well, I’m really into animation, like old cartoons and stuff. I have always enjoyed them. I think I always sort of thought about being a cartoonist- a professional doodler if you will.

Your sound is different from a lot of other things coming out of Miami. Has the city and its culture had an influence on your music?
Yeah, definitely. It’s super- it’s a bright little town. Yeah, it holds some of the craziest characters I’ve ever met. As far as the music in Miami, there is so much rhythm going on down there so maybe I just, feel the rhythm in my bones.

How would you describe your sound and style?

I call it shake-a-billy. It started at a rehearsal, playing music, hanging out before a show and I just came up with the name “shake-a-billy”. We were performing and there were some tambourines and we had to stop playing because people were hitting people in the crowd and going home with bruises. I don’t want to be held responsible for that you know. But I guess shake-a-billy.

You play endless an array of instruments. Do you have a favorite?
Its funny- I started on piano and then I went to guitar and played guitar for a while and picked up all the other instruments along the way. I would have to say piano is my favorite, in all honesty- although, I don’t know, it’s hard. I love guitar and I love ukulele, it’s just a hard question… I just love the fact that you can put all these instruments together into one piece of music- that’s why it’s hard to pick just one, you know?

Monstermix is a great mash-up. Where did the inspiration for the project come from?
It’s a collection of random audios I started building at night. I don’t know I kind of pieced them together. There is no specific inspiration for that. I didn’t really professionally do those; they were just done in my bedroom. I mean there is definitely inspiration behind the songs, but every time I open a track I never know what’s going to come out.

You're new album recently came out. How is this one different from your previous work?

The last record was kind of playful and maybe a little indirect. I think this new record is…I just poured my heart out on it. I told some secrets you know. I didn’t really share any secrets, secrets on the last record.

Do you think that going that route and sharing some of your secrets on this album makes it more personal?

Definitely. It is definitely a more personal record. I definitely hold the other one very close to my heart though that’s for sure. I mean they are like my phases in life. But I guess you have to share your secrets sometime you know.

What led you to record the cover of "Folsom Prison Blues"? Are you a Johnny Cash fan?
I am a Johnny Cash fan. I love Johnny Cash. That track I started when I was recording another track called “Shadows”. I don’t know why but while I was recording that track [“Folsom Prison Blues”] was on my brain. I was just thinking about that song while playing this other song and it was just one of those moments when a track became something else. Kind of like Monstermix you know? You never know what’s going to happen.

Are you planning on touring anytime soon? If so, where is the one place you would most like to perform?
We’re planning either a late summer tour or a fall tour. We’re recording something new towards the end of July. As far as my favorite place… New Orleans is my favorite city ever, of all time- I don’t want to make Miami jealous but it’s a lot of fun!

Summer is quickly approaching. What's next on your agenda?

Definitely more recording, hanging out at the record shops and just seeing what happens; that’s what it’s all about.

*With a ukulele, kazoos, trumpets and a quirky carnival humor check out the Notable Track: "Light Bulb"

 **Originally Published in Verbicide Magazine

Darwin Deez is Heading to Boston! - Live Show Preview

This Saturday, 7/16/11, Darwin Deez, (A.K.A Darwin Smith), will take the stage at the Brighton Music Hall. Deez blends incessant energy and loads of creativity with an endlessly quirky charm to produce a sound that is beyond wonderful.

After fleeing from Wesleyan College, he jumped into music with serous fervor. He gained critical acclaim in the UK not only with two successful singles, but also a spot in the Top 10 on NME's Cool List; he was also featured on the cover. 

His self titled full length debut was released in February of 2010 to much acclaim and housed several lovable tracks including "Constellations", "Up In the Clouds" and "Radar Detector". Deez and the band are wrapping up their U.S. tour and preparing to embark on their next album. If its anything like their last, is sure to be great.

Show Details:
Brighton Music Hall is at 158 Brighton Ave. Allston, MA

Doors at 8pm

Tickets are $12.

For more information visit: Brighton Music Hall and/or Darwin Deez

5 Artists/ Bands You Should Know About - July 2011

Trampled By Turtles

Can you really have enough banjos, slide guitars, and twangy southern tales? The answer is no. Trampled by Turtles has been flying a bit under the radar and that needs to end. It may seem like a generalization, but in reality most bluegrass songs are sad tales of loneliness, desperation and broken hearts. Trampled by Turtles seems to be trying to change that. While they cover these topics more than adequately, they've taken to creating songs of hope, strength and the idea that anything can be overcome. Hailing from Duluth, MN, their impressive blend of fiddles, mandolins, banjos, and acoustic guitars ignites sparks with uplifting enthusiasm. This is a more than welcome change in tide in a genre of music gaining seemingly endless momentum.
Notable Track: "Victory"

The Middle East

The Middle East seems to have a pension for sad and melancholy environments. Jordan Ireland, lead singer of the Queensland, AU native musical collective, whispers each lyric with a palpable desperation. The songs of love, longing, and loss are endless but set to beautifully simple and engaging compositions. Often times there is little more than a few softly plucked guitar chords driving a track home. The accompanying vocals and flute notes of Bree Tranter are a soft and perfect compliment to the bands vision. The Middle East creates music that seems to be the process of working through unresolved emotions. While the energy may be lacking, there is an indescribable beauty to the brutal honesty of this band.
Notable Track: "Blood"

Sea Wolf

Sea Wolf A.K.A. Alex Brown Church, is completely and utterly pleasant. Scratch that, he is completely and utterly wonderful. Church creates a haunting and infections atmosphere, one that displays immense talent. His voice, soft and tranquil, croons over thoughtful and emotional lyrics. In a wonderfully organic way he strikes the perfect combination between soft and sorrowful declarations of longing and hard, bursts of emotion riddled energy. Leaves In the River, his first full length album, is a superb piece of work. It covers all the bases and encompasses a wide array of thoughts, ideas, and sounds. There is something beautiful in the melancholy of Church's downtrodden moments and inspirational in the no holds barred way in which emotions are shared.
Notable  Track: "Middle Distance Runner"

Bombay Bicycle Club

I have a personal soft spot for these British wonders. Their haunting and infectious tunes constantly remind me of my time living in London. BBC is a truly excellent band. Their music is of the indie alt-pop persuasion, riddled with a bit of punk flare and new wave inspirations. Lead singer Jack Steadman has an eerily charming voice; raw and grating at times it fits beautifully with the band's intricate compositions and retains a melodious quality. These blokes are quirky and playing by no one's rules but their own. They strive to keep listeners on their toes with driving and determined music. If you've got a penchant for insightful lyrics and the superior blending of numerous genres into fast paced, bursting songs, BBC is the band for you.
Notable Track: "Evening/ Morning"

Swingin' Utters

They may be a bit of a throwback- so to speak, but the Swingin' Utters are another beyond superb punk band. They are a group of hard, shameless, and brutally honest men intent on creating some of the best hardcore punk you've ever heard. I have only recently been introduced to them and all I can say is "Thank God they are in my life". Seriously, if you love punk- and everyone should- then this band needs to get far up on your list. Born of the 80s SoCal punk scene they made their mark with that beloved in-your-face, get out of my way attitude. The songs are short, angry, emotional, bursts of energy. They get under your skin, infect you and explode in the form of pounding percussion and insanely fast guitar chords. Punk is wonderful. The Swingin' Utters are wonderful. 
Notable Track: "Mr. Believer"

Tommy Gallant Jazz Festival - Portsmouth, NH 7/10/11

Courtesy of the Prescott Park Arts Festival

This past Sunday marked the 16th anniversary of the beloved Tommy Galant Jazz Festival in Prescott Park in Portsmouth, NH. Every year on a beautiful Sunday afternoon in July patrons gather on the grass of Portsmouth's most popular park to enjoy a long afternoon of thoroughly well compose and enjoyable jazz music.

The festival has been around longer than its seventeen year anniversary but it wasn't until 1996, when it was almost permanently cancelled that it got the jolt it really needed for success. With the help of community activists and jazz enthusiasts it has become a donation based event open to all members of the public and a wonderful way to expose people to the wonders of jazz.

With the addition of a new bistro-esque seating area, park members were give a bit of VIP treatment and nice shady view of the day's festivities. For those not on the "members only" list, a soft patch of grass under the shade of an oak tree proved to be more than sufficient. Prescott Park has developed a truly impressive summer arts program over the years and the venue is utterly enjoyable. Situated on the Pisacataqua River, directly across the boarder from Maine, the park offers beautiful views, salty sea air, and close proximity to many of Portsmouth's best restaurants and attractions.

This year, the crowd was delighted by the works of a variety of bands including. the George Garzone Trio, the Press Room Trio, Paul Broadnax (who is coincidentally also this year's festival honoree) and the Seacoast Big Band. Some of the performers were new to the Prescott Park stage, others, like David Seilers of the Seacoast Big Band were seasoned natives to the scene.

The Press Room Trio, fronted by Ryan Parker on piano and Les Harris, Jr. on drums, performed a beautiful set with the Ballou Brothers. Parker and Harris are local favorites and the Ballou Brothers have years of superb performances under their belts. The perennial favorites, Seacoast Big Band, once again turned their 90 minute set into something of pure genius. They concluded the day's festivities with some truly exceptional performances.

The festival ran from 12pm to 6pm. The yearly artist jam session at the Press Room followed the event and proved to be just as enjoyable as years past. This is an amazing component to an already impressive day of music and is favorite of long time patrons. After the festival has ended and the lawn chairs have been folded up, one is able to see the musicians perform in a less structured setting. Inside the Press Room the jazz flows freely, the compositions are uninhibited, and the artists light up.

It was another successful year for the Tommy Gallant Jazz Festival and a great marker of the wonderful things the Prescott Park Arts Festival has in store for patrons this summer.

You Can't Always Live Free in the "Live Free or Die" State

Sometimes you have to stop and say to yourself, "Seriously"? This  has been something repeatedly asked by NH residents over the last year. The intensity of this sentiment has become louder after finding out that the state of "Live Free or Die" has decided to cancel its contract with Planned Parenthood and defund its many valuable and important programs.

As of July 1st the organization no longer had the ability to provide assistance with prescriptions, appointments, or consultations. What does this mean? It means that the organization is not only unable provide affordable contraceptives, but they also cannot provide antibiotics for STDs or UTIs. This also means that women from lower income backgrounds no longer have access to affordable services. Well done New Hampshire.

The vote, made by the Executive Council, comes completely out of left field. During the 2011 budget discussions the suggestion to defund Planned Parenthood was addressed but many fought against the idea. However in an unforeseen turn of events the council turned over the vote, going not only against the wishes of congress but those of the Department of Health and Human Services as well. Some council  members sited their decision as being reflective of their own anti-abortion beliefs.

The state has six Planned Parenthood clinics and 42 percent of female residents who qualify for the services provided utilized these locations. Reuters estimates that nearly 120 women will be negatively impacted daily. Just as a quick bit of info, abortions constituted less than three percent of the services rendered. Those performed were funded- 100%- by private sources, not state issued monies. Planned Parenthood is not an abortion clinic. It is a safe place for women, and men, to go and seek advice and help.

The story has sparked national interest and according to the Huffington Post, Planned Parenthood is looking into all possibilities to keep their doors open and reverse the Executive Council's decision.

Good Music in a Bizzare Place on a Sunday Afternoon

 Elliott Smith: "Pitseleh"

One wouldn't normally think of an outlet store as being a place to hear good music. Rather one might think of these stores as places to avoid all together. With the heinous traffic, obnoxiously large amounts of shoppers oohing and aahing over handbags and the atmosphere of claustrophobia, this feeling is understandable.

However many stores are now taking to creating some truly awesome mixtapes to draw in patrons and keep them coming back for more. Some stores for example are entertaining shoppers with more than excellent soundtracks. Now I don't advocate for spending time in stores, in fact, I prefer to avoid them at all costs. But with so much good music playing all the time these days, these places may be able to earn a bit of street cred. They've not only got classics like the Rolling Stones and Talking Heads, but indie favorites including Elliott Smith. Even The Postelles, a new up and coming band can be heard resonating from the speakers.

I know this raises the question of whether or not a band is selling out. I mean how bad-ass can the Clash be if their being played in a shoe store? But I like to look at their music playing in a space like this as a way to share it with a broader base of people.  It is a little sad to see the indie flare and obscure awesomeness of great bands fall by the wayside due to marketing, but if it gets more people to truly appreciate their artistry, then maybe its not all bad. And let's be honest here, the Clash will always be bad-ass.

So if on a Sunday afternoon you find yourself hankering for some great tunes and maybe in a strange mood to window shop, do it in a place where good music overshadows the tedious task of consumerism.

 And of course, another enjoyable photo. It is Sunday after all.

High Gate Cemetary. London, England

**Photo by Vanessa Bennett

A Pleasant Start to the Weekend

A couple enjoyable tracks to kick the weekend off right...

Atlas Genius: "Trojans" - Australia knows how to make good music.

 

Bon Iver: "Towers" - The wonderful woodsman is back!

An Interesting Read

Just a quick heads up, this is a slightly less lighthearted post than previous ones, but it is most definitely worth reading. I promise. 

When the UN steps in, it generally means things have gotten serious. The food crises and percentage of undernourished people has skyrocketed. At the same time the push for more small scale farming has been long and on going- as it should be. As our resources change, in some cases depleting, our global food system changes too. Large, factory farms are no longer sustainable and proving more and more to be a source of poor production. Crops are tainted with chemicals, meat is loaded with hormones and more people are finding themselves without access to any form of food.

Scientific American's article on the UN's position on large scale farms, the global food system, and past, present and future food crises is not only an interesting lead, but an enlightening one as well. Who doesn't enjoy a good meal at a nice restaurant, a slice from your local pizza joint, or a fresh salad? We all love food, well all eat food, we all need food. So shouldn't we be ensuring its quality and more importantly striving to make sure everyone has access to it?

 Scientific American

Courtesy of  Bon Appetite Magazine

Top 5 Cover Songs - July 2011

Ah cover songs. This is a tricky art form. Sadly, more often than not, a band takes what was once a wonderful song and butchers it by trying to put their own spin on it. However, every once and a while, a cover song comes along that makes you stop and rejoice. Sometimes a band even manages to take a song that was once unbearable and make it ridiculously wonderful. Here are five examples of such artistry.

 

Amy Millan: "I Will Follow You Into the Dark"
Death Cab for Cutie Cover
Here is yet another moment to celebrate twangy guitars and country sentiments (not something I celebrate often). This cover sounds completely different from the original but it is safe to say Ben Gibbard would be proud. Millan 's vocals are soft, sweet, and heartfelt. The song leaves behind the indie scene and for a more romantic atmosphere and beautifully conveys the love the never dies.

The Avett Brothers: "Prettiest Thing"
David Childers Cover
The Avett Brothers can do no wrong, as if that wasn't already known. Their cover of David Childers' "Prettiest Thing" is wonderful. The song is beautiful in and of itself, but the band has slowed down the tempo a bit and the introduction of the cello by Joe Kwon adds a little something extra. Addicting harmonica notes swirl above passionately plucked guitar chords and Bob Crawford's vocals shine; something that doesn't happen often. The band has taken this classic and brought it into the millennium- they have once again turned a song of love and longing into something oddly romantic and inspiring. Well done.

 

Dum Dum Girls:"There Is A Light"

The Smiths Cover
Despite the whiny tendencies of Morrisey, who can honestly say they don't enjoy The Smiths- at least a little bit? The Dum Dum Girls clearly do. They've gone ahead and covered the seminal, "There Is A Light" and knocked it out of the park. There is still an 80s feel to the track, but its faster, harder, and a little bit more bad-ass. Dee Dee's vocals have a strange smooth grit as she belts out each lyric. The sharper guitar chords and  driving percussion give the track an in-your-face punk edge. There is a more decisive tone; less whining and more "this is how it is".

Goldspot: "Float On"
Modest Mouse Cover
 "Float On" has become a peppy, bopping, indie-pop tune... yes! Goldspot incorporates bells, clapping back beats, and soft vocals to add some sunshine to this song about the ways in which everything works out. Issac Brock's raw vocals and the pulsing percussion may be missing, but this cover is catchy in a strange way. In a way that puts a smile on your face and may even make you stop and say, "Yeah, it will all be okay". You can't argue with advice this good set to such a pleasant melody. Well you could, but it would be foolish.

Tallest Man On Earth: "Graceland"
Paul Simon Cover
"Graceland" never sounded so good. I have never wanted to visit it more than I do when I hear this song. Kristian Matsson's unpolished and heartfelt vocals, accompanied only by solitary acoustic guitar notes turns this song into something truly beautiful. It is more heartfelt, more honest, andbetter depicts the ambling of the south. Matsson creates a sense of hope and adventure through this rendition; an environment of wonderfully aimless rambling. It is a truly superb cover.

Happy... Independence?

Graffiti in Asheville, NC

N. Whatever: Being such that it always matters.

July 4th has been a holiday that seemed just a tad bit bizarre to me. Yes, independence should be celebrated, but let's be honest, its really more about the fireworks, smore's and beer, but to each their own!
Whatever matters to you today, enjoy it!

**Photo by Vanessa Bennett

A Sunday Treat

Its just about July 4th! Time for fireworks, food, vacations, vacation traffic, and most importantly excellent music!

To celebrate another year of independence, I give you a- hopefully- enjoyable mixtape. The subject matter is not strictly reserved for patriotic themes and not every artist hails from the Home of the Brave, but rather this collection of tracks serves simply to entertain.

So grab your sparklers, fire up the BBQ, crack open a nice cold... whatever, and try not to blow anything up with your illegal fireworks as these fine tunes fill the air.

The Independence Day Eve Playlist

The Go! Team: "Huddle Formation"
The Ramones: "Rockaway Beach"
Bruce Springsteen: "Streets of Fire"
Sharon Jones & The Dap Kings: "Make It Good To Me" 
Fitz & the Tantrums: "Money Grabber"
Old Canes: "Little Bird Courage"
Shout Out Louds: "South America"
Billy Joel: "We Didn't Start the Fire"
Wolfmother: "Vagabond"
Fugazi: "Waiting Room"
The Clash: "Rudie Can't Fail"
The Raveonettes: "Forget That You're Young"
Trampled by Turtles: "Victory" 
Lou Reed: "Walk On the Wild Side"
U2: "Pride (In The Name of Love)"
tUnE-yArDs:"Gangsta" 
Bass Drum of Death: "Heart Attack Kid"
Elliot Smith: "Independence Day"

**Photo by Vanessa Bennett

Fresh Produce and More in "The Center of the Universe"

Known by locals as "The Center of the Universe" and by outsiders as "that small town near the Super Wal*Mart", Epping, NH isn't necessarily known for much. However, that might change with the opening of a new farmers market.

Yesterday was the opening day of the Epping Farmers Market and it proved impressive. There was a variety of vendors selling, fruits, veggies, baked goods, coffee, and more. Local farmers and merchants came together in the parking lot of the Walgreen's drugstore and transformed the normally bland setting into a vibrant and engaging community space. There was live music provided by area musicians and loads of free samples and testers.

The creation of the new market has been in the works for quite a while. Obstacles with location, permits, and funding created a long road to its realization, but with the help of community businesses and the support of residents, it finally got underway.

Market goers were able to head to Natalie's Coffee for their java fix, grab a delicious cupcake from Simply Sam’s and try a variety of organic, all natural skin care products from Northwood Naturals. Fresh kale, spinach, lettuce, and more were provided by Burnt Swamp Farm and Stout Oak Farm.

There were only eight vendors present making it a rather small market, but organizers say they have a total of sixteen on the docket and are continuing to look for more. Patrons can expect to see the market grow in the coming weeks as more farmers and local businesses join in.

This is one of the many things a town like Epping is in need of. As the development on 125 continues to boom- at an exorbitant rate- the expansion of local events and offerings will help the community "grow with the times" as they say. The market has the ability to not only draw people into the community but help small local business increase their visibility.

No summer season is complete without a trip to your local farmers market and as the deliciously hot sunny days tick by- far too quickly- make sure to add The Epping Farmers Market to your list of places to visit.

The Epping Farmers Market is set to run through the summer. The market will be open every Friday from 3pm to 6pm and is located in the large Walgreen's parking lot. For more information visit the Epping Farmers Market site.