Monday, February 28, 2011

Revolver: Harmonies Douces et Amusant Énergique


Revolver: February 26, 2011 @ Mercury
Lounge, New York, NY


While my grasp on the French language may be a little rusty, that doesn't detour me from liking music from French artists. One such band is Revolver who were at Mercury Lounge Saturday night. Granted, most of what they did was in English but it really wouldn't have mattered if it hadn't been. The band is in the mist of their debut U.S. tour and judging by the audience response, it won't be their last.

Having only really heard their more acoustic songs, I was pleasantly surprised by their genre hopping show. I'd have to say there was pretty much something for almost everybody. When bands switch between genres live, it doesn't generally work so well. But, Revolver managed to seamlessly slip from indie dance pop to rockabilly to feel good 60's pop to what they called chamber pop, rather effortlessly.

I had been expecting their harmonies, but I was impressed with just how tight they were. In the middle of the set, they did three chamber pop/acoustic songs. It was here where their harmonies really shined. When they finished, I was torn between wanting more of the sweet harmonized acoustic sound or wanting more of the upbeat numbers. Things were a little loud right up front (I don't know what the rest of the room sounded like so that may not have been an issue for others) and that took a little bit away from their sound for me.

Catch them while they're over here. They put on a high energy show that had the audience dancing and singing along.

More photos HERE.

Good Times With JITG


Jump Into The Gospel: February 26, 2011 @ M
ercury Lounge, New York, NY


Saturday night, a dark club, the LES and rock 'n' roll. Yep, sounds about perfect for a romp with my favorite musical prophets, Jump Into The Gospel.

While the night saw a bit of instrument malfunction, difficulties be damned, they still put on a fun show. There were two things I noticed during the set. Frontman Louis Epstein has become a much more animated performer now then he was when I first saw them around this time last year. The other thing I noticed, drummer Chris Stein seemed to have a heavier sound. At one point, the penultimate song I think (I'm old, senile and was too busy having a drummer brain fuck moment to remember), he went hardcore. I'm not one to complain about my mind being molested by enjoyable music.

To enjoy the goodness that is JITG, head on over to Brooklyn Bowl on March 21, where they'll be supporting The London Souls ... that's who they were on the bill with when I first saw them. It's a guaranteed night of bad ass music. It'll cost you $5 and you'll have no regrets.

More photos HERE.

Saturday, February 26, 2011

Red Wanting Blue Documented On Film


Ohio rock band, Red Wanting Blue have been around for more than fourteen years. With talent to spare and an amazing drive; they've released eight albums and have built up a loyal fan base. They are quite simply one of those amazing unsigned bands that hasn't let lack of a record deal stop them from doing what they do so well. It has been a long haul and you've got to give mad props to them for not calling it quits. Many bands get tired of chasing the dream after a few years and settle down to a stationary life or they disband and the members move onto other bands.

Director and producer Ken Davenport followed the tenacious band while they made their eighth self-produced album and took to the road. What resulted was These Magnificent Miles: On The Long Road With Red Wanting Blue. Through interviews and never-before-seen concert footage, we get to see the reality of a hard-working indie band. Anyone who has seen the band perform is gifted with a terrific and passionate show. If you've ever had the pleasure to speak with them, even if for just a few moments, you realize instantly that they're down-to-Earth, dedicated and appreciative of their fans. Anyone interested in experiencing the life of a grassroots indie band will surely want to check this documentary out. And if by chance you haven't seen Red Wanting Blue live, do yourself a favor and go see them. You won't regret it.

Check out the trailer below.




Friday, February 25, 2011

Ari Hest Releases New Video


Singer/songwriter Ari Hest is set to release his new album, Sunset Over Hope Street o
n March 1 via Downtown/Mercer Street Records. This is his first full-length album of new material in four years. To whet your appetite, Hest has released a video for the song "How Would I Know" from the record. It was directed by Josh Franer. Check it out.

Hest is hitting the road. Check below for dates near you.




Tour Dates
  • February 26, 2011 -- House Show - Hamden, CT
  • February 27, 2011 -- Jammin' Jules - Woolwhich Township, NJ
  • March 1, 2011 -- Apple Store on 14th St - New York, NY
  • March 2, 2011 -- Club Café - Pittsburgh, PA
  • March 3, 2011 -- The Kent Stage - Kent, OH
  • March 4, 2011 -- The Ark - Ann Arbor, MI
  • March 5, 2011 -- Rumba Cafe - Columbus, OH
  • March 6, 2011 -- Garfield House - Northville, MI
  • March 8, 2011 -- Radio Radio - Indianapolis, IN
  • March 9, 2011 -- Intersection, The Lounge - Grand Rapids, MI
  • March 11, 2011 -- Schubas - Chicago, IL (Two shows)
  • March 12, 2011 -- Ginos Place - Danville, IL
  • March 13, 2011 -- House Show - Monticello, MN
  • March 14, 2011 -- Vaudeville Mews - Des Moines, IA
  • March 15, 2011 -- The Mill - Iowa City, IA
  • March 16, 2011 -- Cedar Valley House Concerts - Cedar Fall, IA
  • March 17, 2011 -- House Show - St Louis, MO
  • March 19, 2011 -- The Walnut Room - Denver, CO
  • March 23, 2011 -- Railway Club - Vancouver, BC
  • March 24, 2011 -- Green Frog Acoustic Tavern - Bellingham, WA
  • March 25, 2011 -- Tractor Tavern - Seattle, WA
  • March 26, 2011 -- The Alberta Rose Theatre - Portland, OR
  • March 27, 2011 -- Tsunami Books - Eugene, OR
  • March 29, 2011 -- Don Quixote - Felton, CA
  • March 30, 2011 - Café DuNord - San Francisco, CA
  • March 31, 2011 -- Hotel Café - Los Angeles, CA
  • April 1, 2011 -- Lestat’s - San Diego, CA
  • April 2, 2011 -- Rancho Manana Golf Course - Cave Creek, AZ
  • April 5, 2011 -- The Blue Door - Oklahoma City, OK
  • April 6, 2011 -- Swank Presents @ Rock House Films - Dallas, TX
  • April 7, 2011 -- Saxon Pub - Austin, TX
  • April 10, 2011 -- WorkPlay Theatre - Birmingham, AL
  • April 12, 2011 -- 12th & Porter - Nashville, TN
  • April 13, 2011 -- Eddie’s Attic - Decatur, GA
  • April 14, 2011 -- The Pour House - Raleigh, NC
  • April 15, 2011 -- Downstairs Live - North Augusta, SC
  • April 16, 2011 -- Evening Muse - Charlotte, NC
  • April 20, 2011 -- Jammin’ Java - Vienna, VA
  • April 21, 2011 -- Ashland Coffee and Tea - Ashland, VA
  • April 22, 2011 -- Kennett Flash - Kennett Square, PA
  • April 23, 2011 -- World Café Live – Upstairs - Philadelphia, PA
  • April 27, 2011 -- The Rivoli - Toronto, ON
  • May 1, 2011 -- The Carleton - Halifax, Nova Scotia/Canada
  • May 5, 2011 -- Hiro Ballroom - New York, NY
  • May 6, 2011 -- Club Passim - Cambridge, MA (Two shows)
  • May 7, 2011 -- New Hope Winery - New Hope, PA
  • May 20, 2011 -- Brennan Coffehouse Series - Jersey City, NJ
  • June 2, 2011 -- Mountain Jam Festival - Hunter, TX



Track List
  • Until Next Time
  • How Would I Know
  • A Way Back Home
  • Business Of America
  • One Track Mind
  • If I Knew You'd Say Yes
  • Sunset OVer Hope Street
  • Down The Mountain
  • Give It Time
  • Swan Song
  • A Good Look Around

Thursday, February 24, 2011

U.S. Royalty: Loud and Deliciously Decadent


U.S. Royalty: February 22, 2011 @ Merc
ury Lounge, New York, NY


Holy hell!

On my way home from Mercury Lounge after DC based U.S. Royalty rocked and rolled, I asked myself what I was going to write about the show. All that came to mind was, holy hell.

There have been a few occasions upon seeing a band perform for the first time that I'm left trying to put thought to word. I get that tingly feeling in my stomach, that shivering chill that goes up your spine. You know, the way classic rock 'n' roll is supposed to make you feel. U.S. Royalty gave me that feeling Tuesday night. I got butterfly stomach. I stood there, okay, I wiggled about oddly trying to take some photos while happily remembering why I love loud guitars and decadent frontmen (think young Mick Jagger or Rod Stewart), why I still plant myself up front at shows and why nearly getting whacked with a wayward mic stand is just part of the adventure.

They kicked things off with "Monte Carlo" a song reminiscent of Rumors era Fleetwood Mac. A part of me halfway expected to see Stevie Nicks come twirling out. While she didn't, they did cover her "Wild Heart" later in the show. Three songs in, they played blues rock stomper "Hollywood Hollows," my favorite song from their delicious, recently released Mirrors record. At that point, I fell in lust; they could have performed the contents of a takeout menu and I might not have complained. They ended the set with the grandiose "Equestrian" leaving the stage to the rather loud applause of the crowd.

I like being entertained and U.S. Royalty entertained me. And, in the end, that's all that matters.

More photos HERE.

Set List
  • Monte Carlo
  • Fool To Love (Like I Do)
  • Hollywood Hollows
  • The Desert Won't Save You
  • Wild Heart
  • Equestrian

Wednesday, February 23, 2011

The Romany Rye Offer Free Download + NY Show


The Romany Rye are offering up a new song. "I Hate Myself (For Loving You)," (no, the Joan Jett song) can be downloaded using the handy widget below. They'll be releasing a new record this summer so this is sort of a sneak peak.

Gig Alert! The band will be here in New York (Brooklyn) on March 13 at Public Assembly so head over and check them out. They'll also be heading down to SXSW next month.

I'm sure everyone knows about the big Rolling Stone contest. If not, check it out HERE. The Romany Rye are one of the artists that were chosen to be a part of the contest.

(click the down arrow to the right)

Luke Rathborne At Home In The Living Room


Luke Rathborne: February 18, 2011 @ The L
iving Room, New York, NY


Luke Rathborne recently came onto my radar. He has a double EP I Can Be One / Dog Years scheduled for release on March 8. Having heard some tracks, I really wanted to check him out live.

Rathborne, a wisp of a man who sings with his eyes closed the majority of the time, took the stage at The Living Room kicking things off solo and accompanying himself on the piano. Being a newbie to his work, I don't know the name of the song but it was understated, beautiful, soulful and just simply stunning. A few songs in he was joined by drummer John Eatherly. I'm typically not a fan of the drums but Eatherly was a total wild man back there; he was totally insane. The pair launched into a series of upbeat songs that were reminiscent of jangly Brit pop. Bassist Darren Hayes Will arrived late, towards the end of the set, and kicked the jangly sound up a notch though they tuned it down for the wistful "Dog Years." Rathborne ended the show as he began it, solo at the piano.

I don't know if it had to do with where I was sitting or if it was the sound system, but the music seemed a bit too loud and from my vantage point Rathborne appeared to have to over sing (for lack of a better description) to be heard over the music. He's young. He has the songs and he has the chops. I'm partial to the soulful piano tunes personally. But, there's something special about Rathborne though and I look forward to watching him grow.

More photos HERE.


Songs Played (may not be in order)
  • Suntan
  • When I Need You
  • Don't Wait
  • Last Forgiven
  • You Let Me In
  • Northern Shore
  • Why
  • Wanna Be You
  • Dog Years


Tuesday, February 22, 2011

Rocky Business Tomorrow, 2/23 @ Mercury Lounge


Rocky Business will be headlining a show at Mercury Lounge tomorrow night, Wednesday, February 23. Doors are at 9:30PM and it will cost you $10. They're celebrating the release of their mixtape White People Are Drug Dealers Too which was released yesterday. During their set, they'll premier their music video for "Rocky's Theme."

Tune into East Village Radio TODAY at 5PM Eastern time. They'll be on Andrew Andrew which airs Tuesdays 4PM - 6PM Eastern.

Katie Costello's Lamplight Out Today + MP3


Singer/songwriter Katie Costello released her second full-length release, Lamplight, today via Tiny Tiny Records. Lamplight takes listeners though a piano laced, melodic romp that will likely have you singing along and tapping your foot. Costello has one of those voices that can leave you entranced and off in your own world. It's also a voice that's sweetly soulful and romantic; perfect for those quiet Sunday mornings. Lamplight is one of those records you will find yourself returning to again and again.

We have in our MP3 Grab at the bottom of the post, the beautiful "Out Of Our Minds" from Lamplight.

Track List
  • Cassette Tape
  • Ashes Ashes
  • After Dark
  • No Shelter
  • Despite Times
  • Out Of Our Minds
  • Fading Lately
  • Dig A Hole
  • Old Owl
  • People: A Theory
  • The Weirds
  • Stranger

MP3 Grab: "Out Of Our Minds" (right click, save)


Friday, February 18, 2011

Revolver To Tour North America & Release EP + MP3


French trio Revolver have a busy spring coming up. The group will be touring North America, their debut US tour, with stops at SXSW and our own lovely city. They'll take the stage here in New York at Mercury Lounge on Saturday, February 26. Click HERE for tickets to their upcoming shows.

Revolver have an EP, Parallel Lives, coming out next Tuesday, February 22. The trio has harmonies that reminds one of Simon & Garfunkel and Crosby, Stills & Nash. They particularly remind me of the latter on "Losing You" from the EP. If you like your music with a folk vibe and enchanting harmonies, they're a band to check out. For a taste of the upcoming record, scroll down to the bottom of the post and get "Parallel Lives" in our MP3 Grab.

Revolver know who they are. Ambroise Willaume (vocals, guitar, piano), Christophe Musset (vocals, guitar) and Jérémie Arcache (cello, vocals) are three early twenty-something Parisians. Frenchmen with an abiding love and understanding of some of classical music's greatest ever Englishmen. They are classically trained too, but also a French band who sings in English, and named after a Beatles album. They've earned a reputation for creating beguiling, beautiful, hypnotic slices of chamber-pop.

The band recently paid a visit to MTV Iggy for a live session that can be found HERE. Check out "Luke, Mike & John" from the session below.

MTV IggyMTV Iggy Live: Revolver -- "Luke, Mike & John"
Revolver


Tour Dates
  • Feb-24 -- Washington, DC -- Red Palace
  • Feb-25 -- Philadelphia, PA -- Johnny Brenda's
  • Feb-26 -- NYC -- Mercury Lounge
  • Feb-27 -- Boston, MA -- TT The Bears
  • March-01 -- Quebec, QC -- Scanner
  • March-02 -- Montreal, QC -- Casa Del Popolo
  • March-03 -- Toronto, ON -- Drake
  • March-04 -- Cleveland, OH -- Grog Shop
  • March-05 -- Chicago, IL -- Schubas Tavern
  • March-08 -- Portland, OR -- Doug Fir Lounge
  • March-09 -- Seattle, WA -- Chop Suey
  • March-11 -- San Francisco, CA -- Rickshaw Stop
  • March-12 -- Los Angeles, CA -- Satellite
  • March-15-20 -- Austin, TX -- SXSW

MP3 Grab: "Parallel Lives" (right click, save)