Indie Shuffle » bluegrass

Vance Joy – Riptide

Justin Lam — Wed, 20 Mar 2013 13:30:12 +0000

Sounds like: Mumford & Sons, Fossil Collective, Boy & Bear

Song: Vance Joy - Riptide [download here]

What's so good?

It’s not every day that your second single gets roughly 50,000 plays in one week, but that’s exactly what Melbourne’s Vance Joy (aka James Keogh) has experienced with “Riptide.” Hopefully, it’s not just James’ mum that is pressing that play button on SoundCloud!

All jokes aside, if you’re a fan of the old folk-pop scene, then you’ll love the sound he’s producing at the moment. I know I’ve spoken about my love for the banjo before, but the ukulele in this particular number lifts this track to new heights. Much like Mumford & Sons have their banjo, Vance Joy has his trusty ukulele.

There isn’t actually one boring bit in this song! It’s filled with numerous hooks and well-constructed bridges; there’s so much going on, but James’ strong vocal performance will have you captivated all the way through.

The single comes from his debut EP God Loves You When You’re Dancing, to be released this Friday in Australia. Enjoy!

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1. Original post: Vance Joy – Riptide

2. Posted in: folk, indie, acoustic, folk-pop, Melbourne

3. Find more music on Indie Shuffle's Indie Music Blog.

Steady Sun – Actress

Christiana Bartolini — Tue, 12 Feb 2013 17:00:04 +0000

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Sounds like: Little Tybee, Slothpop, Maps & Atlases

Song: Steady Sun - Actress [download here]

What's so good?

Ahhh, this is exactly what I needed to wind down the work day. Steady Sun’s “Actress” is a perfect track if you’re looking to tone it down a bit.

This bluesy, folky, psychedelic rock song melds many different genres into one collaborated masterpiece. From the keyboard to the electric guitar to the violin to the flowing, steady but slow beat, this gorgeous orchestral rock piece has the ability to appeal to many demographics. It’s delicate but but powerful; intricate but deep.

If you’re looking for a low key, psychedelic blues rock ballad, you’ve got to keep Steady Sun on your radar!

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1. Original post: Steady Sun – Actress

2. Posted in: indie rock, folk, psychedelic, acoustic, folk-pop

3. Find more music on Indie Shuffle's Indie Music Blog.

Nonaphoenix – Our Own Mountains

Justin Lam — Mon, 04 Feb 2013 19:07:17 +0000

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Sounds like: Wild Nothing, High Highs, Cosmo Jarvis

Song: Nonaphoenix - Our Own Mountains [download here]

What's so good?

Hopefully you recall Nonaphoenix on Indie Shuffle a few months back, because Jakub Andrews and his trusty banjo are back with their third release, “Our Own Mountains.” What can I say about this particular song? Well, Nonaphoenix sure know how to bust out a damn good folk pop tune.

I’ve said this before, but the banjo is indeed the most tranquilizing instrument that has ever graced my ears. I am an absolute sucker for it, and it’s probably why I like this song as much as I do. Jakub ain’t too shabby himself; he has pretty solid folk vocals evident in the deeply layered but melodic chorus.

Nonaphoenix has hinted that next release will be on Valentine’s Day — perfect timing, in my opinion!

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1. Original post: Nonaphoenix – Our Own Mountains

2. Posted in: indie pop, folk, indie, folk-rock, folk-pop

3. Find more music on Indie Shuffle's Indie Music Blog.

Gangstagrass – Long Hard Times to Come (Ft. T.O.N.E-Z)

Philip Friedman — Sun, 13 Jan 2013 16:32:06 +0000

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Sounds like: Atmosphere, Mumford and Sons, Steve Earle, Del the Funky Homosapien

Song: Gangstagrass - Long Hard Times to Come (Ft. T.O.N.E-Z) [download here]

What's so good?

You know when there are two types of food that shouldn’t go well together, but when you mix them it’s amazing? Kind of like potato chips and chocolate. On their own they’re great, but dip those same chips in chocolate and it’s amazing. That’s exactly what happens with bluegrass and hip-hop, at least in the hands of Gangstagrass.

Gangstagrass is the brain child of Brooklyn producer Rench and other various rappers and musicians who have come together to make something completely new. They have taken two American staples and created something original.

With two albums behind them, including 2010′s Lightning On the Strings, Thunder on the Mic and 2012′s Rappalachia, “Long Hard Times to Come,” was the track that really helped get things started. Tapped to be the opening theme for FX’s series Justified, and even leading to an Emmy nomination for Rench and T.O.N.E-Z, this was America’s introduction to a genre that can only be called by the group’s name: Ganstagrass.

Filled with banjos, slide guitar, drum machine, and T.O.N.E-Z’s rhymes, Gangstagrass makes the marriage of the two seemingly opposite sounds seamless and even natural. Something that only this group of guys could pull off.

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1. Original post: Gangstagrass – Long Hard Times to Come (Ft. T.O.N.E-Z)

2. Posted in: hip-hop, rap, bluegrass, mumford & sons, atmosphere

3. Find more music on Indie Shuffle's Indie Music Blog.

Mumford & Sons – Babel

Devin Duckworth — Wed, 26 Sep 2012 23:01:52 +0000

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Sounds like: Of Monsters And Men, The Lumineers, The Wedding Band

Song: Mumford & Sons - I Will Wait [download here]

What's so good?

Mumford & Sons’ sophomore album, Babel, seeded a lot of expectation on whether or not it would live up to the veneration of their first release, Sigh No More. Selling over 5 million copies of their debut album, these wrangling rock ‘n rollers endured a heavy load of anticipation in the long wait for Babel to finally release to the masses. In order to prolong this hype and hunger, the gents toured the world, headlining their Gentlemen of the Road Stopover Music Festivals alongside many handpicked artists, and last weekend they performed two of their new songs on Saturday Night Live to an eager audience.

Over the course of the last few months, we were graced with some premature releases such as the upbeat banjo-banger “I Will Wait,” mellowed-out and melancholic “Broken Crown,” folky foot-stomper “Whispers in the Dark,” and anthemic “Below My Feet.” With these releases, we were given a taste of what to expect from Babel, and while many artists abrogate from their formal aesthetic, these guys ratified their place in our hearts with logical acoustics and fervent musical consistency.

Classifying this album under the folk genre brings forward the politics that come with it. Yes, we hear a lot of banjos, acoustic guitars and harmonious instrumentals — but what we also have is a slew of influences from rustic indie rock all the way to gospel. Their impassioned, God-fearing lyrics extract fragments of their previous Sigh No More, but also administer a sigh – no, a breath – of fresh air.

From the start of Babel, to which the first song was named after, Marcus Mumford bequeaths earnest proclamations that seep from his pungent finger-plucking to the enthusiasm echoing from his vocal chords. After “Babel,” we transition into “Whispers in the Dark,” a track that commences with soothing guitar licks and heartfelt vocals until they build and build into an inevitable Mumford instrumental breakdown with strong chorus chants.

Gone is the fast-and-loose frolic that we have grown accustomed to and in comes an enhanced, razor-sharp exuberance that we knew would eventually happen during three years time. After listening to the first couple of tracks it’s clear that under careful consideration and a highly assured approach to their songs, Mumford & Sons succeed in creating authentic, melodramatic music that speak to their religiously-rooted backgrounds and streamlined folk livelihood.

As a follow-up to an outstanding first album, Babel aims to conquer your heart and soul by delivering a new maturity to their collective of work. Fans who love these English troubadours will not be disappointed with the amount of heavy, fast-paced rumpus exuding from every pore. It’s a tightened-up, polished version of 2009′s Sigh No More, with even more sleek instrumentals and thoughtful lyrical prowess.

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1. Original post: Mumford & Sons – Babel

2. Posted in: indie rock, folk, folk-rock, acoustic, indie folk

3. Find more music on Indie Shuffle's Indie Music Blog.

Backwords – By The Neck

joeabdo — Sat, 01 Sep 2012 16:49:52 +0000

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Sounds like: Wolf Parade, Velvet Underground, Father John Misty

Song: Backwords - Rhythm and Rain [download here]

What's so good?

Brooklyn’s favorite psychedelic rock band, Backwords, is at it again with their third studio release By The Neck. With the addition of Meredith Meyer playing an array of instruments as well as providing a nice touch as a vocal auxiliary, this album goes deeper and is a bit more polished to their sophomore album Quilt.

This quartet from Williamsburg has really hit their stride with this album. There is literally not one skip-able song on this track list. The album opens with “Break My Spine” – an intelligent, catchy song that sucks you into the album. It features Russ’s phenomenal guitar work (which sounds like John Lennon’s distorted Rickenbacker 325) and cabalistic lyrics.

Frontman Brian Russ shares lead singing duties with bassist Tim Pioppio, which gives them a Wolf Parade-like double threat to this album, leading to a wide range of diversity from song to song. “Little Feet” is a great ditty with a captivating tempo, a catchy guitar rift, and a solid jam session wedged between the bridge and refrain.

My favorite song on this album is “Rhythm and Rain” (music video below). Put this song on your end of summer playlist – it is that good. No equation used here on this song — just a well crafted “whiskey rock n roll” track that will invade your blood and bones. The music video enhances the song’s psychedelic undertones and prolific lyrics — check it out.

One has to respect this band. They hail from one of the biggest cities in the world, yet sound like they formed in the badlands of South Dakota, or a surf shack in LA, or a moonshine distillery in Alabama – anywhere but the concrete jungles of Brooklyn. Their prior albums Buffalo Still Roam and Quilt are all strong efforts and very complex; a hodgepodge of genres (surf rock, bluegrass, indie, alt-country, psychedelia, etc). Backwords is patient and smart enough to mash all of those genres into the musical version of a beautiful dream catcher — made with all sorts of materials and colors, yielding a gorgeous piece of art.

Not only do I strongly suggest buying their albums, but try to see them live in a venue near you – they tour the country a lot, so look them up and support this group of travelling songsmiths.

Backwords – “Rhythm and Rain” from Benjamin Johnson on Vimeo.

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1. Original post: Backwords – By The Neck

2. Posted in: indie rock, folk-rock, lo-fi, blues rock, alt-country

3. Find more music on Indie Shuffle's Indie Music Blog.

Download: Mumford & Sons – I Will Wait

Jason Grishkoff — Tue, 07 Aug 2012 20:59:34 +0000

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Sounds like: Of Monsters And Men, Freelance Whales

Song: Mumford & Sons - I Will Wait [download here]

What's so good?

Two heavy hitting singles released in just one day! First The xx, and now Mumford & Sons with their new single “I Will Wait.”

I’m actually liking this one — it starts off a lot more upbeat than what I’d have expect from a band that forged their success in often long, drawn-out build-ups. But change is good, right? At least in this case, that’s true!

“I Will Wait” will be on the upcoming album Babel, to be released September 24th. You can pre-order your digital download via Mumford & Sons’ website.

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1. Original post: Download: Mumford & Sons – I Will Wait

2. Posted in: folk, acoustic, bluegrass, of monsters and men, mumford & sons

3. Find more music on Indie Shuffle's Indie Music Blog.

Holy Vessels – Springtime Bloom

Sean O — Wed, 01 Aug 2012 17:18:38 +0000

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Sounds like: The Avett Brothers, The Zac Brown Band

Song: Holy Vessels - Springtime Bloom [download here]

What's so good?

I’m going to go ahead and roll the dice on this one. I came across Holy Vessels the other day on SoundCloud, and was immediately impressed just from the artwork. I jumped right in to “Springtime Bloom,” the only full track available for listen and free download. I do not listen to a lot of country, but something struck a nerve with me.

Holy Vessels has the twangy bluegrass thing down pat. I love the track’s progression and that piano melody. I wasn’t expecting a quintet out of Brighton to Avett Brothers me in my heart’s face, but here I am looping the tune over and over.

“Springtime Bloom” is from Holy Vessels‘ forthcoming album Last Orders At The Marshall Arms, which will be released on the band’s own imprint Hello Babe! Records.

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1. Original post: Holy Vessels – Springtime Bloom

2. Posted in: folk, alt-country, bluegrass, the avett brothers, psych-country

3. Find more music on Indie Shuffle's Indie Music Blog.

Miner – Hey Love

Jason Grishkoff — Tue, 17 Jul 2012 15:17:37 +0000

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Sounds like: Local Natives, Edward Sharpe

Song: Miner - Hey Love [download here]

What's so good?

Relative new comers on the scene, Miner are looking to make a bit of a splash with their new EP Hey Love. If you’re a fan of great folk pop, I have a feeling that you too will enjoy this.

If you’re digging it, you can follow the band on their website, or pick up the EP on iTunes.

At this point, I’ll basically let the banjos do the rest of the talking for me…

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1. Original post: Miner – Hey Love

2. Posted in: folk, acoustic, local natives, edward sharpe & the magnetic zeros, bluegrass

3. Find more music on Indie Shuffle's Indie Music Blog.

Mumford & Sons – The Cave

Jason Grishkoff — Wed, 20 Jun 2012 17:47:58 +0000

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Song: Mumford & Sons - The Cave [download here]

What's so good?

On a day where I haven’t been able to uncover any compelling new singles, I found myself running into “The Cave” by Mumford & Sons. Released on 2009′s Sigh No More, the track was one of the standouts for me (along with “Little Lion Man“).

On that note — holy crap! More than three years have passed since these guys rose to internet stardom?! Given that reality, I reckon that for many of you this will actually hold some type of sentimental value. As for me, it’s just a pretty song I figured I’d bring back to the top of your playlist.

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1. Original post: Mumford & Sons – The Cave

2. Posted in: folk, bluegrass, mumford & sons, banjo

3. Find more music on Indie Shuffle's Indie Music Blog.

Live in Philadelphia: Punch Brothers

Christiana Bartolini — Sat, 28 Apr 2012 21:06:05 +0000

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Sounds like: Chris Thile, Alabama Shakes, Carolina Chocolate Drops

Song: Punch Brothers - Movement and Location [download here]

What's so good?

So this review will be Punch Brothers’ debut on Indie Shuffle, and it’s definitely about time! Punch Brothers are based out of Brooklyn and make some of the sweetest and most innovative bluegrass music out there today. Lucky for me, I got to experience their music up close and personal at the Theatre of Living Arts in Philadelphia.

Punch Brothers’ opening act was a woman by the name of Jesca Hoop. It was just her and a guitar on stage, and she pretty much captivated everyone. Her demeanor was sweet and her music was soft and intimate with a lot of thought-provoking lyrics. Her voice was sultry and gorgeous and she is most definitely an artist to look out for.

Next up, Punch Brothers! These five guys are some of the most talented musicians I’ve ever seen perform live. Each one played such gorgeous solos, and with such ease, that it was truly mind-blowing. Lead singer, Chris Thile (also known as one half of Nickel Creek fame) danced his signature jig as the rest of the band flowed in sync, making it obvious that they’ve all probably been doing this their whole lives.

Punch Brothers’ modern bluegrass style has so much energy and vivacity that there were multiple times when the entire venue broke out into a floor stomp which of course was fierce and bellowing in the best way possible. Their set induced an uplifting vibe throughout the crowd. Everyone was loving it and understandably so. Punch Brothers had a firm grip on the audience the entire time. They were engaging during and between songs and the way they frequently showcased each band member’s talents kept their set exciting and impressive.

It was a pleasant surprise each time they played a cover… and they played quite a few: from Beck, to Earl Scruggs, to Radiohead, even The Cars! Their last song was a tribute to Levon Helm from The Band. They unplugged their instruments and placed themselves right at the edge of the stage and played “The Weight,” encouraging the crowd to sing along. It was wonderfully engaging to say the least.

Basically, all it comes down to is that you should start listening to Punch Brothers. And once they come to your town to play a show, buy a ticket and enjoy the ride. I cannot see how anyone would be disappointed with a Punch Brothers performance. I would absolutely opt to see these guys again.

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1. Original post: Live in Philadelphia: Punch Brothers

2. Posted in: indie folk, bluegrass, punch brothers

3. Find more music on Indie Shuffle's Indie Music Blog.

Django Django – Firewater

Jason Grishkoff — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 16:19:23 +0000

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Sounds like: Capybara, The Dodos

Song: Django Django - Firewater [download here]

What's so good?

Django Django have a hell of a name, and to make matters worse, they’ve self-titled their new album. As the esteemed blogger Song, by Toad points out, that makes a post title look like a bit of a joke. As such, I’ve opted to cover their single “Firewater.”

Featuring a claptrack and bluesy licks, I could easily see the UK natives standing tall on a stage at San Francisco’s Bluegrass Festival. Alas, they’re all the way across the pond. For now, I’ll have to let my headphones provide the auditory experience.

If you like what you’re hearing, you can order their album over on Rough Trade.

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1. Original post: Django Django – Firewater

2. Posted in: folk, folk-rock, bluegrass, the dodos, capybara

3. Find more music on Indie Shuffle's Indie Music Blog.

TV Soundtrack: Breaking Bad Season 2

Clarisse Randolph — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 17:07:23 +0000

For those who went into withdrawal without a weekly dose of Walter White (Bryan Cranston), Season 2 of AMC’s Breaking Bad returned a year later to take its viewers to all new highs… and devastating lows.

While the nerve-racking drama never misses a beat, this season just might make your heart skip one. From the mysterious foreshadowing of what’s soon to come to new love, lies, and life — Breaking Bad Season 2 will leave you confused, anxious, restless, and yet itching for more every week.

However, there’s no denying that the key ingredient to the most intoxicating show AMC has cooked up is its addictive soundtrack. The music (usually composed of a dash of rap, hint of reggae, a dab of instrumental, a tad of rock, smidge of oldies, and sprinkled with blues) creates such an atmosphere that may leave one wondering, “Am I stoned on meth?”

Fortunately, getting high through watching TV isn’t a technology that’s been developed, yet. But thanks to its tracks, Breaking Bad does arouse a similar feeling. The music supervisors have constructed a solid lineup of songs to set the transformation of Walter White into Heisenberg (easily comparable to the change of Anakin Skywalker into Darth Vader), in my opinion peaking with the use of TV on the Radio’s haunting “DLZ”. The mix of the acting and cinematography laced with this track is sure to create a feeling that words won’t even justify.

Check out the playlist below for highlights from the Breaking Bad Season 2 soundtrack! And check out highlights from the soundtrack to Breaking Bad Season 1 here!

1. Original post: TV Soundtrack: Breaking Bad Season 2

2. Posted in: Electronic, indie rock, experimental, instrumental, jazz

3. Find more music on Indie Shuffle's Indie Music Blog.

Song: The Black Seeds - One by One [Downloa d]

Season 2, Episode 9

Song: Bob James - Feel Like Making Love [Downloa d]

Season 2, Episode 3

Song: J.J. Cale - Anyway the Wind Blows [Downloa d]

Season 2, Episode 1

Song: The High Plane Drifters - Electricity in My Bones [Downloa d]

Season 2, Episode 11

Song: The Lions - Thin Man Skank [Downloa d]

Season 2, Episode 8

Song: The Walkmen - Red Moon [Downloa d]

Season 2, Episode 2

Song: Holy Fuck - They're Going to Take My Thumbs [Downloa d]

Season 2, Episode 1

Song: TV on the Radio - DLZ [Downloa d]

Season 2, Episode 10

Song: The Be Good Tanyas - Waiting Around to Die [Downloa d]

Season 2, Episode 3

Dr. Dog – Lonesome

Jason Grishkoff — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 19:02:34 +0000

Visit Indie Shuffle to download.

Song: Dr. Dog - Lonesome [download here]

What's so good?

It’s been around two years since Dr. Dog last album Shame Shame was released, so we’re stoked to hear that their latest effort “Lonesome” is true to the band’s rock-n-roll roots — fully equipped with Robert Johnson-esque slide guitar and rambling licks.

Their upcoming album Be The Void is set to be “leaner and meaner” than any before. You can pre-order it here via ANTI- records.

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1. Original post: Dr. Dog – Lonesome

2. Posted in: folk-rock, americana, real estate, blues, bluegrass

3. Find more music on Indie Shuffle's Indie Music Blog.

Coves – Let The Sun Go Down On Me Here

Jason Grishkoff — Tue, 29 Nov 2011 16:15:19 +0000

Visit Indie Shuffle to download.

Song: Coves - Let The Sun Go Down On Me Here [download here]

What's so good?

The chill vibe of this bluesy track instantly caught my attention, and after two listens, I decided it was worth highlighting as Song of the Day.

Covers are relatively unknown, releasing their EP on Bandcamp back in August of this year. In fact, they’re so obscure that I can hardly find out any information about them. All I know is that the music was written, produced and performed by John Ridgard, with words written and performed by Beck Wood. That same tidbit of info is on their Facebook, their Twitter and their Bandcamp. Nothing else!

So, as with many posts, I’ll just let the music stand for itself.

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1. Original post: Coves – Let The Sun Go Down On Me Here

2. Posted in: indie rock, female vocalist, blues rock, americana, bluegrass

3. Find more music on Indie Shuffle's Indie Music Blog.

Not Waving But Drowning – Processional

Lauren Sloss — Sat, 21 May 2011 23:19:54 +0000

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Sounds like: The Decemberists, Beirut

Song: Not Waving But Drowning - Sleep Before I Wake [download here]

What's so good?

Not Waving But Drowning may suggest a punning indifference with their name, but this Brooklyn band has a complex, delightfully addictive musical force. A Brooklyn band that can be described as steampunk, NWBD is perhaps better encompassed by their own tagline of “junkyard cabaret.” With musical and stylistic nods to the debaucherous side of the turn of the century, the band refuses to be hemmed in by simple labels.

Processional, their sophomore album following 2006′s Any Old Iron, combines the band’s appreciation for the theatrical with an ear for the catchy — sounds of cabaret, Americana-folk and even punk rock weave in and out of the album’s 12 tracks with a fluidity that would be impossible without the musical prowess of the four band members.

Processional sounds as though it’s made up of about 1,000 moving parts, not least due to the dizzying array of instruments being played (viola, banjo, whiskey bottles, and the saw, to name a few). Rather than sounding busy, however, the album acquires an intensely layered feel; tracks stand solidly alone but are even more effective as part of the cohesive whole.

It’s difficult to settle on a favorite song, or to pick one that embodies the overall sound. “Thanks A Lot, Lancelot” is a tongue-in-cheek pop rock number; “Tiger Hunting” is a sexy, snake-charmer of a track that could be the soundtrack of a particular brand of brothel.

“Sleep Before I Wake,” the album’s opener, is a gorgeous, harmony-saturated track that the band describes as “a dark and stormy ho-down.” It announces Processional‘s arrival with a fury of guitars and a beat that will drive itself into your core with a vengeance. You’ll feel you’ve seen the circus, and will be ready to run away before the album’s end.

Stream Processional on Not Waving But Drowning’s bandcamp page.

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1. Original post: Not Waving But Drowning – Processional

2. Posted in: folk, americana, bluegrass, beirut, the decemberists

3. Find more music on Indie Shuffle's Indie Music Blog.

Bill Callahan – Apocalypse

James Curtis — Mon, 18 Apr 2011 15:59:34 +0000

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Sounds like: Bonnie 'Prince' Billy, Lambchop

Song: Bill Callahan - Riding for the Feeling [download here]

What's so good?

Sounding like an opening for a Kill Bill film, Bill Callahan’s “Drover” begins in a solemn and tense style. His thick, booming American accent leads you into a world of desert isolation, and then he releases classical guitar twangs, violins and maracas. “One thing about this wild, wild country – it takes a strong, strong – it breaks a strong, strong mind.” It is focused and serious stuff, but never strays from being pure and simplistic. If there’s one thing that Bill Callahan does well, it’s being organic. Nope, no tricks here.

This might be his strongest material yet. At 44 years young, Callahan shows a noticeable contemplative maturity. “America,” loosely hung together by distorted guitars and vague ditty interludes, is experimental, but also deliberate and powerful. Callahan’s mastery of the quiet rocker is exceptional here; there’s a chemistry that makes you sit up and listen to what seems to be the most innocuous of guitar jams.

The western themes on the first half of this record peel away on later songs. A signpost for this is “Riding for the Feeling,” which blends slow, back burner guitar solos and Callahan’s distinguished voice with exceptional class. He delves into themes of lethargy and self-awareness: “In conclusion, living is easy when you’ve got somewhere you need to be.”

Apocalypse is ultimately one of those albums that takes careful listening, the dominant activity in whatever you’re doing. Callahan makes ‘em the way they used to: requiring attention, patience and dedication. Thankfully however, the man of many western tales doesn’t make it that hard.

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1. Original post: Bill Callahan – Apocalypse

2. Posted in: folk, folk-rock, acoustic, blues rock, americana

3. Find more music on Indie Shuffle's Indie Music Blog.

Backwords – Quilt

joeabdo — Thu, 14 Apr 2011 14:42:38 +0000

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Sounds like: Wolf Parade, Local Natives, Dr. Dog, Brian Jonestown Massacre

Song: Backwords - I Have Seen [download here]

What's so good?

“Mitakuye Oyasin” is a Lakota Sioux Indian mantra that is said when entering or leaving a sweat lodge. It means, very simply, “We are all related.” I believe it is this ethos that drives Brooklyn-based trio Backwords to make such welcoming, inclusive, melodic, and genre-transcending music.

First of all, to describe their sound: imagine a 1998 Modest Mouse having a threesome with The Beach Boys and Fleet Foxes, and this three-headed music lovechild marinated in a bottle of Old Grandad Whiskey — nine months later, Backwords would have been born. Their music contains a gritty, unwavering, raw guitar-shredding ability, mixed with gorgeous melodies and soothing vocals. Sprinkle in occasional use of the banjo, fiddles, and female backup vocals, and you’ve got yourself Backwords.

Their hooks are catchy and one of the most impressive aspects of seeing them live occurs when frontman Brian Russ steps away from the microphone, turns his back to the crowd, hunches over and absolutely demolishes his guitar strings. His ability to play the guitar turned me from a toe-tapping fan into someone convulsing uncontrollably in front of the stage at a Baltimore club.

Russ can shred and improvise; the guy can flat out play the guitar. And he is supported by an extremely worthy bassist, Tim Pioppo, who thumbs a Hofner semi-acoustic bass a la Paul McCartney and can turn a stand-up cello into a rift machine. Their phenomenal drummer, John Sheldon, rounds out the lineup. He isn’t afraid to jump into the pocket and tear into an army cadence that reminds me of beats provided by bands like The Turtles or The Mamas and the Papas.

Some background on the members: Russ was a born and raised in Philadelphia. After graduating college, Russ packed his bags, guitar, and harmonica and traveled to the poorest county in America, the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation in southwest South Dakota. Here, Russ was inspired to create the music for his soon-to-be-band. Pine Ridge represents one of the most severe dichotomies in America today; it lies in one of the most gorgeous ecosystems in the world containing the Black Hills, Badlands, and rolling buffalo-covered prairies. But in this awe-inspiring setting is the most impoverished corner of America with the worst mortality rate in the western hemisphere outside of Haiti.

Russ spent two years in Pine Ridge. In his free time, he would sit atop a cliff, penning music that embodied the teachings and philosophies of the Lakota medicine men he had befriended. He participated in Lakota Sioux rituals, like sitting for hours in agonizing heat-filled sweat lodges. Finally, he decided he wanted to express the strange world of Pine Ridge in musical form. Listening to Backwords’ sophomore album Quilt, it’s evident that the teachings and philosophies imparted on Russ in Pine Ridge stands tall in Backwords’ music.

Quilt is a follow-up to their first release The Buffalo Still Roam. The album opens with “And Then Sigh,” a confident, beautiful track that reminds me of early Pink Floyd. “In the Air & On the Ground” is a sweet tune led by a banjo rift, with fun harmonizing vocals and a fiddle solo in the middle that would make Charlie Daniels proud. “Better Off Alone” returns Backwords to their gritty guitar epicenter and is accompanied with female vocals that reminds me of The Dandy Warhols at their best. “Think of Me (As a Quilt Made Out of Stars)” is a 6+ minute tour de force that really highlights Backwords at its core. The song does not rely on the standard rock song equation, but changes melodies a half dozen times. It begins with a manic guitar rift analogous to Built to Spill and then absolutely dies down into a bluesy, psychedelic tune.

The title of this album, Quilt, embodies their style of music – taking many elements and creating one cohesive, warm, comforting product. Aside from buying Backwords’ music, I strongly suggest finding them in a city near you to witness their musical ability live. They would be happy to see you, because in the end, “Mitakuye Oyasin.”

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1. Original post: Backwords – Quilt

2. Posted in: indie rock, folk-rock, psychedelic, acoustic, blues rock

3. Find more music on Indie Shuffle's Indie Music Blog.

Daniel Martin Moore – In the Cool of the Day

Kimberly Manning — Tue, 25 Jan 2011 15:47:42 +0000

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Sounds like: Ben Sollee, Iron and Wine, Monsters of Folk

Song: Daniel Martin Moore - In the Cool of the Day [download here]

What's so good?

Folk crooner and Kentucky native Daniel Martin Moore recently dropped In the Cool of the Day, a wholesome and soothing album released by Sub Pop Records.

Stripped down to traditional instruments like acoustic guitar and piano, In the Cool of the Day is a collection of new and old stories all strung together with a spiritual backbone. While religious music can sometimes be overbearing, Daniel Martin Moore remains welcoming on this album, with only touches of spiritual, rather than religious, undertones.

With the help of old friend and talented percussionist Daniel Joseph Dorff, old-time gospel favorites are modernized and new tunes carefully constructed.

“In the Garden” is graced with jazz piano and percussion layered with Moore’s comforting voice and uplifting lyrics, while twangy tunes like “Up Above My Head” and “Dark Road” keep the album lively.

This album is traditional yet modern, and folk yet gospel. The religious lyrics are obvious, but not a slap in the face, which makes this album easy to listen to in any circumstance. As Moore’s first gospel effort, it’s apparent that these songs were important to him throughout his childhood, and it’s obvious that he hopes these tracks will have the same effect on others.

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1. Original post: Daniel Martin Moore – In the Cool of the Day

2. Posted in: folk, bluegrass, iron and wine, gospel, monsters of folk

3. Find more music on Indie Shuffle's Indie Music Blog.

The Builders and the Butchers – Dead Reckoning

Kimberly Manning — Fri, 07 Jan 2011 16:59:14 +0000

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Sounds like: Murder by Death, Langhorne Slim, William Elliot Whitmore

Song: The Builders and the Butchers - I Broke the Vein [download here]

What's so good?

Portland’s The Builders and the Butchers fail to disappoint once again with their newest release, Dead Reckoning. Staying true to their previous recipe, Ryan Solee’s voice is rugged and guides the Spanish-influenced, fast-moving strings and the Southern Gothic percussion and brass.

Dead Reckoning, which drops on February 22, begins with the soft, build-up “I Broke the Vein,” leading into a plethora of folk tales and bluegrass melodies like the heavily country “Rotten to the Core” and “Out of the Mountain,” which is sprinkled with blues instrumentals.

Distant, echoing chants introduce “Blood For You.” The short interlude is lead by heavy, pounding percussion similar to banging pots and pans. With an unproduced, raw sound The Builders and the Butchers really bring out the folk roots essence they are so good at.

Despite the album title, Builders and the Butchers surprisingly talk less about death than their previous album, Salvation is a Deep Dark Well. With more solemn tunes, the eeriness that the band is known for is more subtle but nonetheless prevalent.

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1. Original post: The Builders and the Butchers – Dead Reckoning

2. Posted in: folk, blues rock, americana, bluegrass, devil makes three

3. Find more music on Indie Shuffle's Indie Music Blog.

Chicago Bluegrass and Blues Festival 2010: Festival Round-Up Cont’d

Christiana Bartolini — Fri, 10 Dec 2010 20:37:43 +0000

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Sounds like: Blues, Bluegrass, Folk

Song: Go Long Mule - Pink Lemonade [download here]

What's so good?

The whole festival weekend oozed with eclectic energy and talent. There was no denying that the people of Chicago had been anticipating this festival for quite some time. Day 3 of the festival had arrived and it was finally time to bid adieu to the magical comradery that this festival unavoidably created… and what a lineup to ease the process!

Jamie Lono

I hate to make comparisons but this man is right up there with Jack Johnson and Jason Mraz (in an extremely good way!). His energy was sweet, his tunes oh so innocent. You couldn’t help but feel like you were listening to a soundtrack to some feel-good movie. His passion was not to be ignored. There was so much soul and positivity projecting from his set that I have no doubt in my mind that Jamie is definitely going places.

The O’My’s

These guys are dapper. Their tunes were incredibly infectious, potentially appealing to many different-minded people. There’s no way these guys can be boxed into just one genre. There’s jazzy horns, funky bass, soulful singing, and even some rapping. A big bowl of multi-faceted soup. Their live show was so vibrant; the crowd couldn’t help but sway to their swagger. If this band doesn’t continue to grow I would be completely surprised.

Mike Mangione & The Union

This band reminds me of a really powerful church sermon (sans religion). You can’t help but be moved. Their performance was extremely tight and impressive, the chemistry that the band shared was quite obvious. They WILL make it on the road to success; there’s no way they won’t. Their set was exciting and powerful, the kind of performance that makes you want to (uncontrollably) hoot and howl. I really hope there’s much more to come from Mike Mangione & The Union.

Go Long Mule (featured)

Such a classic encapsulation of Americana folk rock. Their harmonies were so on point; the vibrating, raspy vocals were penetrating. I just kept envisioning them making a soundtrack for a modern way-down-south type of movie. This is the type of band that can have a whole room singing and dancing along, practically yelling with conviction as their catchy lyrics ring through everyone’s ears. I would be delighted to see them tour around the east coast in the future.

Daphne Willis

Chills down my spine. This girl’s voice is SO powerful and melodic. This is what she was born to do and her passion is so obviously bursting from her soul. She could have a full supporting band with her or just her and her acoustic guitar and either way, her performance would be deeply moving and entertaining. She’s the type of talent that if you walked by her playing in the street or in a venue, you wouldn’t not be able to notice her. Take my word and go see Daphne if she happens to be touring in your town.

Roots Rockers Club

Reggae at its finest. The crowd ate it up!! How can you listen to reggae and NOT dance to it? There were 10(+?) members in the band! From reggae to soul to funk, there was so much flavor in their set and the crowd just soaked it up, it was contagious. You could tell that the band members were having just as much fun as the audience; they really brought a wonderful sense of togetherness. What a great way to wind down the night!

De Hurricane

Yes! I couldn’t have asked for a better way to close the show. There was a light-heartedness in the air; a feeling of a heartfelt goodbye in the form of upbeat, wholesome, indigenous reggae music. In the dead of winter, everyone was smiling and dancing to the warm feeling that De Hurricane’s set created. This is the type of music that can appeal to the young and old. In other words, it brings people together… and that it did!

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1. Original post: Chicago Bluegrass and Blues Festival 2010: Festival Round-Up Cont’d

2. Posted in: blues rock, bluegrass, chicago bluegrass and blues festival

3. Find more music on Indie Shuffle's Indie Music Blog.

Chicago Bluegrass and Blues Festival 2010: Festival Round-Up

Joshua Mellin — Fri, 10 Dec 2010 19:21:50 +0000

Visit Indie Shuffle to download.

Sounds like: Blues, Bluegrass, Folk

Song: Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros - Home (Demo Version) [download here]

What's so good?

Billed as a summer festival brought indoors for the winter, the Chicago Bluegrass and Blues Festival did not disappoint. For its third year, the fest expanded to three days, and three separate venues: Double Door, Congress Theater and Lincoln Hall.

Outside, Chicago’s Cash Cab filmed in front of the Double Door in Wicker Park night one, as the faithful packed into the storied bar and venue. The night featured a showcase of the tristate area’s best in cow punk and alternative country in that had the crowded house stomping the wooden floors.

Day two at the Congress Theater, just a few miles down Milwaukee Avenue, exceeded all expectations. Organizers truly curated a summer festival atmosphere within the aging interior of the Congress Theater — there were multiple stages, including one in the foyer (complete with marble staircase bleachers), artists painting, glass for sale, hell, even World’s Best Dancer was there hoola-hooping! It didn’t matter it was the first snowfall of the season, it was summer inside the Chicago landmark.

All the acts were impressive. The Giving Tree Band, clad in matching western wear, lead a rousing barn dance, Paleface delivered an energetic performance from the balcony stage, and we can’t say enough about how spectacular Grace Potter & The Nocturnals were and what an experience seeing Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros was. Even as we grabbed our coats, we were treated to a line dance in the lobby by the Corn Desert Ramblers with violinist Sean Shiel who guested with groups throughout the day.

With former acts such as Bela Fleck & The Flecktones, Dr. Dog, The Avett Brothers, The David Grisman Quintet, and Ha Ha Tonka, the Chicago Bluegrass and Blues Festival is an event not to be missed, and the perfect cure for festival addicts getting through the long Chicago winter.

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1. Original post: Chicago Bluegrass and Blues Festival 2010: Festival Round-Up

2. Posted in: folk, folk-rock, acoustic, blues rock, edward sharpe & the magnetic zeros

3. Find more music on Indie Shuffle's Indie Music Blog.

Dawn Landes – Young Folks (Peter Bjorn & John Cover)

Joshua Mellin — Fri, 10 Dec 2010 19:08:15 +0000

Visit Indie Shuffle to download.

Song: Dawn Landes - Young Folks (Peter Bjorn and John Cover) [download here]

What's so good?

Maybe its because I was just at the Chicago Bluegrass and Blues Festival all weekend, or maybe it’s because I finally got this song out of my head, but something made me want to dig up this cover of the song of 2007.

In this version, Swedish rockers Peter Bjorn & John’s “Young Folks” is presented with a Kentucky twist by folk singer Dawn Landes.

Like the track? Give it a heart on HypeM!

------------------------ With countless sub-genres

1. Original post: Dawn Landes – Young Folks (Peter Bjorn & John Cover)

2. Posted in: female vocalist, folk, folk-rock, acoustic, blues rock

3. Find more music on Indie Shuffle's Indie Music Blog.

Preview: Chicago Bluegrass and Blues Festival 2010 (Day 3)

Christiana Bartolini — Mon, 29 Nov 2010 21:55:52 +0000

Visit Indie Shuffle to download.

Sounds like: Blues, Bluegrass, Folk

Song: Daphne Willis - What to Say [download here]

What's so good?

Today is the LAST day to enter the contest to win free passes Chicago Bluegrass & Blues Festival! Five lucky winners will get to see bands over the course of three days from 12/3-12/5 at various locations throughout the Windy City. Bands include the likes of Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeroes, Grace Potter and the Nocturnals, The Right Now, The Skatalites, and many more.

Comment below or on our Facebook postson why you deserve the 3-day passes (make sure to include your full name and e-mail address) and we’ll be announcing winners TOMORROW, Wednesday, December 1.

Below is a round-up of some bands to catch on Sunday, December 5. Indulge in Chicago’s newest “it” venue in the heart of Lincoln Park while being wooed and wowed by the following lineup:

The Skatalites

“The Skatalites are the premiere ska band from Jamaica. Officially formed in 1964 after playing in studios together all over Kingston, these musicians came together to perform live shows all over the island. In addition to the live shows,these musicians were the backing band for every vocalist including Bob Marley, Jimmy Cliff, Toots and The Maytals, to name just a few. They are the roots to the tree whose branches include rocksteady, reggae, rap, dub, punk, two-tone, 3rd wave, ska-jazz, ska-core and ragga. Now in their 46th anniversary they continue to please crowds while spanning the globe year after year.” – skatalitesmusic.com

Daphne Willis (featured)

“The 21-year-old front woman makes supple, soulful music possessing a sophistication that belies her age. Because of the silky, disarming ease of her songs, Willis has been described as a female Jack Johnson. In only two years, Willis has already made deep inroads on the Midwest club circuit and is now performing at top-echelon venues like Schuba’s in Chicago, The Annex in Madison, First Avenue in Minneapolis and the River Roots Live Festival in Davenport and pulling off this feat without the help of a booking agent.” – themusebox.net

Go Long Mule

“Pieced together after a series of fateful barroom encounters, Go Long Mule has created a style that is as much cheers and laughter as it is a drunken brawl. This group of multi-instrumentalists renders tales of the beauty parlor and the junkyard alike with the stylings of rag-and-bones folk, vaudevillian roots-rock, and roadhouse blues. Accessible yet indefinable, this sonic collage stitched by this wayfaring bevy is perhaps best described as nothing more than a reflection of the band’s multifarious members.” – Go Long Mule’s Facebook

Mike Mangione & The Union

“Mike Mangione & The Union is a touring group that combines a folk-rock sound with an orchestrated string section, soulful vocals and literate sensibility. The band’s previous album, Tenebrae, has received favorable press from all corners of the country, including the honor of being an All Music Guide Album Pick, while Blurt refers to their “tearstained folk, Memphis-styled gospel and bluesy-flavored pop” as “luminous.” Their new album, Offering, will be released in spring 2011.” — mikemangione.com

The O’My’s

“The O’ My’s, a group which was haphazardly conceived in the summer of 2007, have since become one of the most adored young bands from Chicago. The O’ My’s make music that garners comparisons to the soul and blues of Chicago’s past, yet the essence of the music is beyond pretension and their sound is far from contrived. On their debut album Above The Influence the boys touch on a multitude of subjects ranging from misplaced hate to adolescent love, all while displaying their incredible pop sensibilities and innate ability for arrangement.” — theohmys.com

Jamie Lono

“Somewhere in between today’s Blues scene and Acoustic coffee shops grows an artist named Jamie Lono. Jamie Lono shows you soul that the world hasn’t seen in a while. Occasionally accompanied by Guitarist Danny Dancel, their presence and energy on stage is undeniable. Building his style around Acoustic sing-a-longs to Rough blues from the 1950′s, Jamie Lono gives you a style of music you’ve never heard before. Some may call it the Hawaiian Blues.” – reverbnation.com

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1. Original post: Preview: Chicago Bluegrass and Blues Festival 2010 (Day 3)

2. Posted in: female vocalist, folk-rock, blues rock, reggae, bluegrass

3. Find more music on Indie Shuffle's Indie Music Blog.

Preview: Chicago Bluegrass and Blues Festival 2010

Joshua Mellin — Sun, 28 Nov 2010 23:57:45 +0000

Visit Indie Shuffle to download.

Sounds like: Blues, Bluegrass, Folk

Song: Chicago Bluegrass and Blues Festival 2010 - 40 Day Dream [download here]

What's so good?

The contest for winning free passes Chicago Bluegrass & Blues Festival continues! Five lucky winners will get to see bands over the course of three days from 12/3-12/5 at various locations throughout the Windy City. Bands include the likes of Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeroes, Grace Potter and the Nocturnals, The Right Now, The Skatalites, and many more.

Over the few days, we will be publishing previews that give background info on bands you won’t want to miss. Comment below or on our Facebook posts on why you deserve the 3-day passes (make sure to include your full name and e-mail address) and we’ll be announcing winners on Wednesday, December 1.

Below is a round-up of some bands to catch on Saturday, December 4:

Edward Sharpe & the Magnetic Zeros (featured)

Edward Sharpe is the manifestation of lead singer Alex Ebert’s imaginary rehabilitation messiah. According to Ebert, Sharpe was “sent down to Earth to kinda heal and save mankind… but he kept getting distracted by girls and falling in love.” He met lead singer Jade Castrinos outside a L.A. cafe, and the two began touring the country with a ragtag team of musicians nearly 25 strong. Edward Sharpe travels the country in a big white bus, spreading love and honesty. Following their riveting set at last year’s Lollapalooza, this is their highly anticipated return to Chicago!

Grace Potter & the Nocturnals

After their wonderful afternoon set at this past September’s North Coast Festival, this Vermont-based band samples the funky blues soul rock of the 60s and 70s, often channeling Jefferson Airplane with a rousing rendition of “White Rabbit” at live shows. Lead singer Grace Potter plays electric and acoustic guitar along with an electric piano. The band has been featured on TV shows like One Tree Hill, ER, and Grey’s Anatomy.

David “Honeyboy” Edwards

Delta blues guitarist David “Honeyboy” Edwards is a can’t miss! A living legend at age 95, he picked up a Lifetime Achievent Award at this year’s Grammy Awards. Playing with the likes of Keith Richards, he boasts that he remembers all the intricate details of his nearly 70-year career — including witnessing Robert Johnson down that fateful bottle of whiskey the night he sold his soul.

The Giving Tree Band

“Come boy, sit down and rest” and listen to this eight-man folk/roots collective formed by brothers Todd and Eric Fink, who live and record under one roof in Yorkville, IL.

Van Ghost

Featuring Trey Anastasio band member vocalist Jennifer Hartswick, Van Ghost was formed by concert promoter Michael Harrison Berg in Chicago in 2008. Playing their first shows at the famed Metro, they’ve drawn comparisons to bands such as Wilco and Ryan Adams & The Cardinals.

Sexfist

High energy, harmonic homegrown Chicago bluegrass act reminiscent of the Steep Canyon Rangers.

Paleface

Taught how to write songs by Daniel Johnston, Beck’s former roomate Paleface and girlfriend drummer Monica Samalot bring along their high energy anti-folk.

Chicago Farmer

A staple at Bottoms Up on Tuesdays in Pekin, IL, and Six Strings in Bloomington, IL on Wednesdays, Chicago Farmer packs up his charms and Bob Dylan-inspired wit, and brings them to the big city.

Derek Nelson & The Musicians

Although he’s only been playing songs for less than a year, SPIN has already described Derek as a “force to be reckoned with.” Come find out why.

------------------------ With countless sub-genres

1. Original post: Preview: Chicago Bluegrass and Blues Festival 2010

2. Posted in: folk, acoustic, blues rock, edward sharpe & the magnetic zeros, bluegrass

3. Find more music on Indie Shuffle's Indie Music Blog.