TACOS

Lux Interior Dies At Age 60. R.I.P.

2009-02-05T11:35:00.002-06:00

Lack there of

2009-01-26T15:12:00.003-06:00

I apologize for not posting as much as before. Please accept this Kraftwerk.

Performing "Tanzmusik" live on television in 1973.

Happy Birthday, Dolly.

2009-01-19T17:01:00.002-06:00

Wow! 63, it's hard to believe.

I always loved hearing Dolly as I grew up. My mother would always play her records in the late 70's and early 80's. Shit, she even watched her syndicated show!

Definitely a living legend that helped pave a road for many, many female musicians. Her influence can be seen, as well as respected in many genre's.

Sun Ra - Brother From Another Planet

2009-01-04T22:16:00.001-06:00

Enjoy.

Part. 1

Part. 2

Part. 3

Part. 4

Can - Unlimited Edition

2009-01-04T12:18:00.004-06:00

The abbreviation E.F.S., appearing in several of the track titles, refers to Ethnological Forgery Series, a series of songs in which Can self-consciously imitated various "world music" genres. Mother Upduff is a retelling of an urban legend involving a family whose grandmother dies while they are on holiday together, and whose corpse – left wrapped up on the roof of the family car – is later stolen along with the car.

- Wikipedia entry for Can "Unlimited Edition"

Essentially, this album is a collection of tracks over the bands existence from 1968 to 1976. It was a expanded version of their album "Limited Edition" which was released in 1974. As the name suggests, it had a limited press. This particular album added tracks 14 - 19 and was released as a double LP.

It also should be noted that Can's most recognized vocalists, Damo Suzuki and Malcolm Mooney are featured on here.

Many times collections like these can be lack luster, but Can pretty much manages the "keep things interesting" department in check. Definitely worth your time if you enjoy this group.

Unlimited Edition

1. Gomorrha – 5:41
2. Doko E – 2:26
3. LH 702 – 2:11
4. I'm Too Leise – 5:10
5. Musette – 2:08
6. Blue Bag (Inside Paper) – 1:16
7. E.F.S. No. 27 – 1:47
8. TV Spot – 3:02
9. E.F.S. No. 7 – 1:05
10. The Empress And The Ukraine King – 4:40
11. E.F.S. No. 10 – 2:01
12. Mother Upduff – 4:28
13. E.F.S. No. 36 – 1:55
15. Connection – 2:20
16. Fall Of Another Year – 3:20
17. E.F.S. No. 8 – 1:37
18. Transcendental Express – 4:37
19. Ibis – 5:00

Dive Like Jehu: Bullet Train To Vegas 7", Self Titled LP & Yank Crime

2008-12-06T11:05:00.004-06:00

Jehu came along at the perfect time for me. I absorbed sounds from the likes of Nation Of Ulysses, Girls Against Boys, Cop Shoot Cop, Sonic Youth, etc. But then some friends turned me on to this band.

My first introduction to them was seeing a sticker on a friends guitar my freshman year. Then the self titled followed by the 7". I was blown away. Both vocals, the discordant chords, drawn out time signatures...it all made sense and was very uplifting to hear. Granted, a lot of music can do this to you at an early age, but most don't stand the test of time. I can safely say Jehu did that.

Many people, myself included, site them as a major influence in the 90's. They fulfilled a lot of my musical tastes and more. To this day, you can always hear filtered jehu-esque parts in some bands material. One good example was San Diego's scene shortly after their existence. A lot more Hardcore was also adapting their writing style to their music. I thought you could always hear some Reis in Swing Kids guitar parts, as well as many other bands. Bands I was in were definitely included!

Their history is long and complex and still to this day, most members continue with music and, or something that relates.

Forming in 1990 in San Diego, CA, John Reis and Rick Froberg created Drive Like Jehu after the demise of their prior group, Pitchfork. They sounded similar, but differences included Rick playing guitar as well as vocals. Also, the addition of Mark Trombino on drums and Mike Kennedy on bass rounded out the nice complexity that would come from intricate, interweaving guitars and odd time signatures. Kennedy went on to be a chemist and Trombino remained a music engineer. He is known for recording such groups in the day as Boys Life to bands such as Blink 182 & Jimmy Eat World. Froberg continued with his Visual and Graphic arts career. It should be noted that all of Pitchfork, Jehu and Hot Snakes art for their records and merchandise was created by Rick.

John always remained in Rocket From The Crypt during Jehu. The growing success of Rocket is what essentially put an end to the band. Over the years, John played once more with Froberg. That band was called Hot Snakes. You can find more about them, Jehu and several others on Swami Records, John's label.

Jehu recorded and released two full lengths, a 7" and a compilation track for a compilation CD. All of this you will find here in this posting. The compilation track is the last song on Yank Crime.

Enjoy!

Bullet Train To Vegas 7"

1. Bullet Train To Vegas - 2:40
2. Hand Over Fist - 4:24

Self Titled

1. Caress - 3:55
2. Spikes to You - 2:18
3. Step on Chameleon - 5:12
4. O Pencil Sharp - 9:44
5. Atom Jack - 2:24
6. If it Kills You - 7:12
7. Good Luck in Jail - 4:05
8. Turn it Off - 6:12
9. Future Home of Stucco Monstrosity - 3:58

Yank Crime

1. Here Come the Rome Plows - 5:44
2. Do You Compute - 7:12
3. Golden Brown - 3:14
4. Luau - 9:27
5. Super Unison - 7:24
6. New Intro - 3:32
7. New Math - 4:06
8. Human Interest - 3:24
9. Sinews - 9:12

Electric Wizard: Supercoven, Let Us Prey, Witchcult Today

2008-12-05T08:47:00.004-06:00

Those of you who love the Doom Metal genre, Electric Wizard must be and most likely is one of your favorites. A few of their 6 LPs & 6 EPs are regarded very highly and thought of as pretty important. "Come My Fanatics..." would have to be one of them.

Electric Wizard had their fair share of up's and downs. There was the obvious, which are loss of members and tensions on tour between members. But random other acts would always seem to interfere.

Such as:

1. Guitarist Jus Oborn was arrested for possession of marijuana.

2. Mark Greening was arrested for assaulting a police officer.

3. Tim Bagshaw served a sentence for robbery.

4. Oborn suffered a collapsed eardrum during a concert.

5. Oborn later severed a fingertip during, what has been described as a"DIY accident"

6. Greening broke his collarbone in a motorcycle accident

Definitely one of my fav's when it comes to this sound. Some call it drone, stoner, stoney, whatever. Very full, hypnotic, guitar fuzzy, ambient at times and some great background records. Always keeps me satisfied.

Lets Us Prey as well as Witchcult Today are LPs. Supercoven is an EP. Supercoven was from 98, Prey came out in 2002, Withcult, their most recent, in 2007.

Check out more for yourselves if you enjoy these.

Let Us Prey

1. ...A Chosen Few – 6:35
2. We, the Undead – 4:29
3. Master of Alchemy – 9:23

I. House of Whipcord
II. The Black Drug

4. The Outsider – 9:18
5. Night of the Shape – 4:02
6. Priestess of Mars – 10:02

Supercoven

1. Supercoven – 13:13
2. Burnout – 18:39

*Extra songs included on the 2000 reissue:

3. Wizards of Gore – 9:02
4. Electric Wizard (live) – 9:53

Witchcult Today

1. Witchcult Today – 7:54
2. Dunwich – 5:34
3. Satanic Rites of Drugula – 6:06
4. Raptus – 2:13
5. The Chosen Few – 8:19
6. Torquemada '71 – 6:42
7. Black Magic Rituals & Perversions – 11:01

I. Frisson Des Vampires
II. Zora

8. Saturnine – 11:04

Discordance Axis: Jouhou

2008-12-01T17:22:00.002-06:00

A band that ranks high in the "holy shit, this is brutal" realm is non other than Discordance Axis. Very reminiscent of early Napalm Death(IE: Scum, Enslavement, etc)

The power and intensity of Mr. Dave Witte's percussion in this group is nothing shy of say an M16 machine gun. The vocals can be ranked up their with Eye of early Boredoms. Shrieking to low grunting. The guitars? Well, I can honestly say they"shred" without feeling cheesy. I really enjoy the fact that they're so heavy and played at half or even quarter time of the drum tempo. Something that kept D.A. apart from other Grindcore.

I first heard of this group in 1998 when this LP was released. It was pretty limited and hard to find in some stores. A friend in Richmond, VA played it shortly after he seen them. After that, I had to find one for myself. It took a couple years, but damn it, I found one.

This CD version of the vinyl(originally on Devour in 98, re-released on Hydra Head)features a couple 7" splits as well. Most notable are the Plutocracy and Melt Banana splits.

In my prior post, I mentioned that I listened to His Hero Is Gone if I was "upset/pissed off" I figured someone who is about to commit a serious, vicious and gruesome crime would use this as their soundtrack.

Enjoy!

Jouhou

1. Vertigo Index – 0:53
2. Panoptic – 0:58
3. Aperture of Pinholes – 1:01
4. Information Sniper – 0:41
5. Carcass Lottery – 1:15
6. Come Apart Together, Come Together Alone – 0:45
7. Rain Perimeter – 0:53
8. A Broken Tomorrow – 0:46
9. Attrition – 0:26
10. Nikola Tesla" – 1:02
11. Flow My Tears the Policeman Said – 0:52
12. Jouhou – 0:48
13. Damage Style – 0:51
14. Aether Scalpul" – 0:36
15. A Crack in the Cataracts – 0:28
16. Numb(ers) – 0:46
17. Ashtray Ballpoint – 0:58
18. Typeface – 1:10
19. Reciprocity – 1:12
20. Reincarnation – 1:17
21. Alzheimer – 0:35
22. Flow My Tears the Policeman Said – 0:51
23. Eye Gag – 0:24
24. Area Trinity – 1:11
25. Integer – 1:03
26. Information Sniper – 0:39
27. Tip – 0:59
28. Tokyo – 0:37
29. So Unfilial Rule – 0:09
30. Junk Utopia – 1:15
31. Continuity – 1:26
32. [untitled] – 2:23

His Hero Is Gone: Fifteen Counts Of Arson

2008-11-19T20:07:00.006-06:00

His Hero Is Gone. Definitely one of my all time favorites when it came to music that had a Crust Punk/Sludge Metal influence. They formed in 1995 and hailed from Memphis, Tennessee. This was a period of time where I was starting to really get tired of metal. My top 4 Metal bands were eating shit(Slayer, Anthrax, Metallica & Voivod) and I was far more interested at HxC's take on the genre. Bands such as Man Is The Bastard, Neanderthal, Rorschach and many others come to mind. But HHIG really caught my attention.

Their tuned down guitars/bass, huge anvil-esque power behind the drums was so crushing to me. I thought they were the perfect band to listen to if you were extremely upset. Especially anything related to "the man", if you will.

The name came from a newspaper headline that Carl(bassist/vocals) saw. It was to be interpreted in many ways as well as their way of trying to avoid the standard names that you would find in the Crust scene. You could always tell because they had "Dis" at the beginning of their title.(IE:Disrupt)

Their following was rather large at the time of their existence. Never using a website or any form of major, nor college radio play, they would find themselves playing all over the U.S., Europe, Japan and so on. Whenever I would see them live, I knew I had to make it early. Hundreds of people were always expected. And their shows? Brutal. Very tight and coherent changes for such heavy, low ended music.

Hearing this record brings back a lot of good memories of my travels as a teen and early 20's. I instantly think of More Than Music Festival in Columbus, OH, The Michigan Fests that would occur in the spring, Goleta, CA Festivals, basement shows, VFW halls, the works. A time when people really didn't give a shit what you looked like or who you knew, but rather were more interested in figuring out what makes you tick, where the best meals in your town can be located and at the end of it all, you most likely had a new long time friend.

As cheesy as this may sound, it is the truth. It saddens me to see the current state of affairs in similar or like minded scenes. A time of Myspace, flashy banner ads and hi profile tours. Seems the message just got lost somewhere.

Fifteen Counts Of Arson

1. Professional Mind Fuckers - 2:07
2. ...And We Burn - 0:53
3. Unleash - 0:25
4. Leash - 1:54
5. Sterile Fortress - 1:44
6. Good Samaritan - 0:29
7. Hand That Feeds - 0:21
8. Rain Dance - 2:42
9. Voluntary Amputation - 0:52
10. Anthem For The Undesirables - 0:58
11. Scalor - 1:54
12. Concrete Cage - 0:37
13. Abandoned - 1:25
14. Thieves - 1:30
15. The End Result Of 11 Months In The Mental Hospital - 4:42

Deutsch-Amerikanische Freundschaft/D.A.F./DOS: Live in Wiesbaden/Wartburg, Germany. June 18th, 1981

2008-11-05T20:50:00.003-06:00

"Dance the Mussolini, move your behind, clap your hands, and now the Adolf Hitler, and now the Jesus Christ, and now the communism ..." Lyric excerpt from the song Der Mussonlini

What we have here is a live bootleg cassette of two shows by DAF(Deutsch-Amerikanische Freundschaft).

Formed in 1978 featuring Gabriel "Gabi" Delgado-López (vocals), Robert Görl (drums, percussion, electronic instruments), Kurt "Pyrolator" Dahlke (electronic instruments), Michael Kemner (bass-guitar) and Wolfgang Spelmans (guitar). Kurt Dahlke was replaced by Chrislo Haas (electronic instruments, bass-guitar, saxophone) in 1979.

DAF were very influential electrpunk/NDW from Düsseldorf, Germany. Starting off more as a punk group that incorporated electronics to eventually becoming, what John Peel referred to them as The Grandfathers of Techno.

Their story is still a little fuzzy to me. I do know they split for some time and reunited. To this day, they still exist, but only featuring two members. Hence the use of DOS at the end of their name towards the middle of their career.

Worth checking out. You can find some of their records and singles on Mute Records as well as Virgin Records.

Live in Wiesbaden/Wartburg, Germany. June 18th, 1981

* I have no artwork for this release. Hit me up if anyone finds one. Thanks!

1. Sato-Sato - 2:29
2. Verschwende Deine Jugend - 2:47
3. Der Mussolini - 3:58
4. Mein Herz Macht Bumm - 3:03
5. Der Rauber Und Der Prinz - 3:39
6. Kinderspielzeug - 2:07
7. Der Muskel - 2:37
8. Nachtarbeit - 1:43
9. Verlier Nicht Den Kopf - 3:05
10. Alle Gegen Alle - 3:46
11. Alles Ist Gut - 2:26
12. Als Wars Das Letzte Mal - 3:59
13. Kebabetraume - 4:07
14. Ich Und Die Wirklichkeit - 2:53

Pussy Galore: Exile On Main Street

2008-10-20T16:52:00.004-05:00

As mentioned in the post prior, Pussy Galore released a handful of EP's, 7"s and cassettes. One of the well sought after cassettes they released was "Exile On Main Street."

Yes, the Rolling Stones record!

This was released in 1986 when they relocated to New York. If you manage to find a copy(how much it would cost you is beyond me!), buy it.

Exile On Main Street

1. Rocks Off - 4:22
2. Rip This Joint - 1:29
3. Hip Shake - 3:47
4. Casino Boogie - 2:43
5. Tumbling Dice - 4:16
6. Sweet Virginia - 2:45
7. Torn and Frayed - 3:10
8. Sweet Black Angel - 2:41
9. Loving Cup - 3:26
10. Happy - 2:27
11. Turd on the Run - 2:42
12. Ventilator Blues - 3:58
13. Just Wanna See His Face - 3:56
14. Let It Loose - 4:01
15. All Down the Line - 3:23
16. Stop Breaking Down - 2:37
17. Shine a Light - 5:30
18. Soul Survivor - 3:40

Pussy Galore: Dial 'M' For Motherfucker

2008-10-19T10:36:00.003-05:00

Pussy Galore got their start in Washington, D.C. in 1986. The band at the time featured Jon Spencer, Julia Cafritz and John Hammill. A few line up changes came to be over the years which lost/brought back members. The band disbanded in 1990 after releasing their 4th proper LP. The members went on to form Royal Trux, Boss Hog(which featured Jon and Julia) and most notable, The Jon Spencer Blues Explosion.

Their first few Lp's was nothing but noise, loose percussion and structures all while utilizing samples as well as tape manipulation. Many of the songs actually blended into one another making it hard for some people to know when the songs actually ended.

During 1986 in D.C., the "Emo" and Hardcore movements were flourishing and Dischord Records was on the musical map. Jon, showing deep hate for Ian MacKaye and Dischord Records in general, formed Pussy Galore as a response to the P.C. movements. It's fair to say that he pissed of some folks in D.C.

Pussy Galore relocated to N.Y. where they continued their harsh sounds and brutal live shows. During their time together, they released a handful of limited edition cassettes, 7"s and splits. One of which covered the Rolling Stones "Exile on Main Street."

Definitely my favorite era of Jon Spencer related releases. If you're a fan of any of the groups mentioned post Pussy Galore, give this a listen.

Dial'M'For Motherfucker

1. Understand Me - 4:05
2. SM 57 - 2:04
3. Kicked Out - 3:55
4. Solo=Sex - 3:02
5. Undertaker - 2:36
6. Dwda - 4:21
7. Dick Johnson - 2:20
8. 1 Hour Later - 2:50
9. Eat Me - 2:02
10. Waxhead - 2:19
11. Wait a Minute - 2:53
12. Evil Eye - 3:06
13. Adwd #2 - 2:30
14. Hang On - 5:41

Wayne Jarrett: Showcase Vol.1 (Bubble Up)

2008-09-28T15:10:00.003-05:00

Roots vocalist Wayne Jarrett remains relatively unknown, even for many reggae fans. Born in 1956 in Kingston, Jamaica, Wayne relocated to the U.S. with his mother and his 6 siblings.

Showcase Vol. 1(later known as Bubble Up) is essentially three Jarrett tracks, two Lloyd Barnes tracks, and a Horace Andy number all presented in the showcase style.

The showcase style is the vocal track with the dub track mixed onto the end. The tracks are all very well voiced in a manner that hints at Horace Andy without copying him. Owners of Wackies compilations should recognize a recycled rhythm or two, but Bullwackies managed to make an original fresh sounding roots album.

Guitar solos and a strong jazz influence make this an even more interesting album. This is a essential album for all roots fans.

Bubble Up

1. Brimstone And Fire - 5:39
2. Every Tongue Shall Tell - 5:11
3. Magic In The Air - 7:59
4. Bubble Up - 7:18
5. Darling Your Eyes - 7:28
6. Holy Mount Zion - 5:20

Crispy Ambulance: Frozen Blood (80-82)

2008-09-23T17:58:00.003-05:00

Like many other groups mentioned in this blog who were inspired by the infamous Sex Pistols show at Lesser Free Trade Hall in Manchester(IE: Buzzcocks, Warsaw/Joy Division, etc), Crispy Ambulance was another.

Sometimes regarded at the time as "Joy Division copyists", C.A. didn't seem to leave quite a mark worldwide. At least, not as much of one like some others on the label.

Formed in 1978 by Alan Hempsall (vocals), Keith Darbyshire (bass), Gary Madeley (drums) and Robert Davenport (guitar)in Manchester. They disbanded in 1982 after several dozen shows in the UK and a tour in mainland Europe. In 1999, C.A. reformed with the original line up and released 2 more LP's of new material.

This is collection of their first stage as a group. Add it to your collection of bands on Factory Records/Post Punk/British 70's/early 80's music. I'm sure you'll appreciate it.

Frozen Blood (80-82)

1. Not What I Expected - 3:59
2. Deaf - 3:56
3. Come On - 2:10
4. Drug User – Drug Pusher - 6:24
5. October 31st - 3:34
6. Egypt - 5:10
7. A Sense Of Reason - 4:00
8. Eastern Bloc - 5:26
9. Concorde Square - 3:08
10. The Presence - 5:14
11. Headhunters - 2:52
12. Frozen Blood - 4:39
13. Turnbuckle - 5:57
14. The Gift Of Danger - 3:22
15. Hollow Points - 4:30
16. The Grind - 4:28
17. Cult - 3:14

Atlantis Audio Archive Presents: VINTAGE 9/23/08

2008-09-21T19:05:00.003-05:00

My friend at Atlantis Audio Archive will be spinning some wax at King & I Thai, here in Minneapolis.

The info as follows:

The music starts around 10 and goes till close (2 am). I will be spinning in a similar groove to the Champion Superior Soundsystem nights from my DC days. Lots of African, Brazilian and other funky grooves.

Vintage
Tuesday July 22nd, 10 pm - close
King & I Thai
1346 La Salle Ave. Minneapolis, MN
No Cover

Blank Dogs: On Two Sides

2008-09-21T12:51:00.003-05:00

To keep in the spirit of Blank Dogs approach at keeping the public from knowing too much about him, I will do the same. Provided below is a link to his blog.

Over all, it's a one person project that puts out several releases a year. Mostly released on cassette and vinyl 7"s. He allows all to download said releases from his page. So grab them while you can.

I do enjoy the feel of these Lo-Fi recordings. All done at Mr. Blank Dogs home, he manages to capture a feel of an era of music long gone. Mostly late 70's/early 80's electro/post punk, what have you. You can draw your own comparisons.

Also, let it be known that he played his first show this year. Mr Blank Dog likes to be Mr. Recluse.

Blank Dogs Blog

On Two Sides

1. Ants - 2:55
2. Blaring Speeches - 3:07
3. Twenty Two - 2:21
4. The Crystal Ladies - 4:04
5. Calico Hands - 2:16
6. Pieces - 2:10
7. Epic Moves - 3:36
8. The Lines - 2:09
9. RCD Song - 3:01
10. The Station - 2:03
11. Meltdown Cloud - 3:04
12. Three Window Room - 3:09

Willy - R.I.P. 1981 - 2008

2008-09-16T13:14:00.002-05:00

Willy took his life just days ago, I have learned as of last night. At this moment, I can't really wrap my mind around it. He was a very special person to me and many, many others.

I had the opportunity to become friends w/Willy while he was in Plot To Blow Up The Eiffel Tower. Our bands toured together and stayed in touch since. I don't think I met someone who was so warm and open in such a long, long time.

You're missed very badly, friend.

R.I.P.

Birdland: 2004 Demo

2008-09-10T16:55:00.004-05:00

This is a demo from the Baltimore group Birdland, which changed their name to Celebration shortly after. The band consists of Katrina Ford(vocals) and Sean Antanaitis(drum machine, sequencers, keys, guitar). These two were also in bands such as Jaks as well as Love Life.

Their sound stayed consistent over the years from band to band to that of Birthday Party, Jesus Lizard and The Bad Seeds. A cabaret feel, dark, spacious, etc.

You can find their current releases under the name Celebration on 4AD Records. Which, to me, is quite fitting. You may recognize Katrina's vocals on TV On The Radio's"Staring At The Sun."

Definitely worth checking out.

Birdland 2004 Demo

1. Waste Time - 4:53
2. Lost Souls - 3:38
3. Tonight - 3:12
4. Stars Don't - 5:02
5. Only One - 4:58
6. Go West - 5:31
7. Run Away - 7:27

Butthole Surfers: Rembrandt Pussyhorse/Cream Corn From The Socket Of Davis EP

2008-08-29T17:48:00.004-05:00

Originally slated to be released in 1984 on Alternative Tentacles, 1986 became the "official" release year for the Butthole's second LP on Touch & Go Records. It was also intended to be an EP. As songs were added and dates were pushed back, T&G was the label who offered to have it as it's official home. It was further pushed back when BHS decided to add 2 more tracks.

Originated in Texas, then relocated in California, then back to Texas, BHS brought their acid induced music to the punk world in the early 80's. At this time, the line up changed about an average of two times for every record. Usually holding two stand up percussionists, 2 guitars, vocals and a bass. Recordings often included tape manipulation, violen, horns, samples and plenty of off the wall lyrics.

Disturbing, hilarious, obviously drug influenced, I give you one of my favorite records/bands during my highschool years.

Rembrandt Pussyhorse

Cream Corn From The Socket Of Davis EP

1. Creep in the Cellar – 2:05
2. Sea Ferring – 4:00
3. American Woman (Bachman, Cummings, Kale, Peterson) – 5:33
4. Waiting for Jimmy to Kick – 2:21
5. Strangers Die Everyday - 3:08
6. Perry – 3:32
7. Whirling Hall of Knives – 4:44
8. Mark Says Alright – 4:08
9. In the Cellar – 3:18
10. Moving To Florida – 4:32
11. Comb 1 – 4:57
12. To Parter 2 – 4:20
13. Tornadoes – 2:36

Sun Ra: Lanquidity

2008-08-11T22:09:00.005-05:00

Sun Ra and most of the core Arkestra (at least Allen, Gilmore, Patrick and Boykins) left Chicago in 1961, staying in Montreal for a few months before settling in New York City. They initially had trouble finding performance venues and began living communally due to New York's higher cost of living. This frustration fueled the drastic changes in the Arkestra's sound as Sun Ra's music underwent a free jazz-influenced experimental period.

Wikipedia Entry/Sun Ra New York years (1961–early 1970s)

I've heard a lot of Sun Ra records over the years. Definitely no where near the amount of recordings he actually has, but enough to get an idea. But then I heard this record.

A new friend as of this year played me this record and needless to say, I took to it. It may only have 5 tracks, but they hold your attention. This is also a rare moment where you'll hear guitar in his group. Track one and five still remain my favorites. Interesting enough, they happen to be the opener and closers.

Whether or not you're into fusion, it's worth checking out. Even if you use it as"back ground" music.

Sun Ra: Lanquidity

1. Lanquidity 8:22
2. Where pathways meet 6:33
3. That's how I feel 8:06
4. Twin stars of thence 9:34
5. There are other worlds (they have not told you of) 10:57

Isaac Hayes 8/20/42 – 8/10/2008 R.I.P.

2008-08-11T21:58:00.002-05:00

I know I'm late in reporting this. Just showing my appreciation.

Wiki Link

The Magnetic Fields: Holiday

2008-07-28T21:43:00.005-05:00

Holiday is the record which introduced me to The Magnetic Fields. There was something about their unconventional take on 80's style pop songs. Such use of ukulele, banjo's, accordion, cello's and Marxophone really made their music stand out. Well, that and Stephin Merritt's vocals.

The Magnetic Fields hail from New York and was originally Stephin's studio project. During the early stages of the groups formation, he played all instruments with exception of additional help from Claudia Gonson.

I've been on a big kick lately with their records. It's especially nice to know they still exist. Most groups in this vein, if you will, tend to be broken up, dead, etc by now. At least the groups & performers I enjoy.

Like most music, I have some fond memories with this record. Hopefully you'll enjoy it.

Holiday

1. BBC Radiophonic Workshop – 0:22
2. Desert Island – 3:34
3. Deep Sea Diving Suit – 2:05
4. Strange Powers – 2:41
5. Torn Green Velvet Eyes – 4:22
6. The Flowers She Sent and the Flowers She Said She Sent – 2:26
7. Swinging London – 2:35
8. In My Secret Place – 1:41
9. Sad Little Moon – 2:12
10. The Trouble I've Been Looking For – 2:23
11. Sugar World – 3:19
12. All You Ever Do Is Walk Away – 2:06
13. In My Car – 2:57
14. Take Ecstasy with Me – 3:30

The Pop Group: Y

2008-07-14T14:42:00.003-05:00

This is the debut LP, Y from the Bristol, England post-punk act The Pop Group.

The Pop Group existed for just a short period of time from 1978 to 1980. They went through a few line up changes before signing to Rough Trade, which released their sophomore release For How Much Longer Do We Tolerate Mass Murder?

During the Rough Trade era, they shared managers with The Slits. Both bands, at this time, were doing their take on more funk and dub reggae influence while remaining very noisy, jazz influenced, etc.

This record is for anyone who enjoys this period of music from the U.K. Highly recommended.

Y

1. She Is Beyond Good and Evil – 3:23 (CD only: not on the original '79 vinyl album)
2. Thief of Fire – 4:35
3. Snow Girl – 3:21
4. Blood Money – 2:57
5. We Are Time – 6:29
6. Savage Sea – 3:02
7. Words Disobey Me – 3:26
8. Don't Call Me Pain – 5:35
9. The Boys from Brazil – 4:16
10. Don't Sell Your Dreams – 6:40

Swans: Filth + Self Titled EP

2008-07-06T18:43:00.005-05:00

The only Swans era I really put forth effort to listen to was their first 3 or 4yrs of existence. I was much more of a fan of the violent and abrasiveness of their music, which can be seen up until their 3rd of 4th release. Their sound started to take a departure and eventually becoming something more of pop music afterward.

Rising from the ashes of the New York No Wave scene in the late 70's/early 80's, Swans made it's mark rather quick.

The live shows were violent in ways of their presence, physical activity with the audience and the volume. It had been reported that some members of the audience would throw up from how unsettling the volume was. And of course, cops were always called.

Anyone fan of The Birthday Party, early Cop Shoot Cop would appreciate this release. It features the debut self titled EP, which had been added once it was re-released in 1990.

Hypnotic and repetitive chords, thick and heavy bass, driving and very thundering percussion all topped with vulgar lyrical content.

Not bad.

Filth + Self Titled EP

1. Stay Here – 5:44
2. Big Strong Boss – 3:07
3. Blackout – 3:49
4. Power for Power – 6:03
5. Freak – 1:15
6. Right Wrong – 4:48
7. Thank You – 3:56
8. Weakling – 5:30
9. Gang – 3:20
10. Swans Live at the Kitchen, N.Y.C. 1982/3 - 24:18†

†The additional track on the 1990 re-release contained a live set from New York City containing the tracks "Strip/Burn", "Heatsheet", "Blackout", "Clay Man" "Stay Here" and "Weakling"

Disco Inferno: Technicolour

2008-07-02T17:59:00.003-05:00

I just recently discovered this group this year. At first the name really turned me off. The last thing I wanted to hear was something disco oriented in this day and age. No offense to any of you Disco fans out there. I can respect it, but shit. This is 2008 and I think we got the genre covered. Will I eat my words one day? Doubt it.

Disco Inferno is a group from Essex, England. They released 5 LP's and a mess of singles and EP's.

Technicolour was Disco Inferno's final LP on Rough Trade. Their Wiki page mentions that they formed in late 80's and ended in 96. Heavily influenced by Joy Division and other post punk groups that came from England.

Samples, electronics, some pop elements, fun guitar effects and 100% British sounding.

I like. I think you might, too.

Technicolour

All tracks written by Ian Crause, Paul Wilmott, and Rob Whatley.

1. Technicolour – 3:37
2. Things Move Fast – 3:02
3. I'm Still in Love – 2:10
4. Sleight of Hand – 3:59
5. Don't You Know – 4:48
6. It's a Kid's World – 4:30 * Sample: Iggy Pop, "Lust for Life"
7. When the Story Breaks – 3:11
8. Can't See Through It – 3:53
9. Over and Over – 3:51

Neil Young: Trans

2008-06-24T15:55:00.007-05:00

This is a pretty fun record. Very different from his previous releases, this record features Young on Vocoder, synth and electronic percussion.

According to the Wikipedia entry:

Neil Young found that when using a vocoder when communicating to his son (who was born with cerebral palsy), he was able to elicit a better response. The emotional power of this experiment shows in the lyrics, particularly in the track "Transformer Man" with the lines "So many things still left to do / But we haven't made it yet."

At time of release, which was 1982, many reviews thought very poorly of it. Some fans thought he was mocking the current day music. I'm not too positive as to why he decided to release an album as such. Regardless, it's worth checking out if you enjoy electronic music. Especially with a Vocoder.

Trans

1. Little Thing Called Love – 3:13
2. Computer Age – 5:24
3. We R in Control – 3:31
4. Transformer Man – 3:23
5. Computer Cowboy (AKA Syscrusher) – 4:13
6. Hold on to Your Love – 3:28
7. Sample and Hold – 8:03
8. Mr. Soul – 3:19
9. Like an Inca – 9:46

Men's Recovery Project: Frank Talk About Humans CD

2008-06-24T13:22:00.006-05:00

This was originally a 3x7" release on Vinyl Communications. It was released about a year later as a CD with many extra remixes/tracks/random shit.

Sam McPheters and Neil Burke were both previously in a hXc group from NY called Born Against. They relocated to Richmond, VA and eventually disbanded. There was several incarnations of groups featuring members of Born Against. MRP had to be my favorite.

The main difference between MRP and BA was mostly the fact that it was a 2 peice originally, used whatever random cheap keyboards, synths, samplers, sequencers they could get their hands on and write 10 to 20 + songs at a time. If you check out their discography, it's quite extensive and much of it is out of print.

Sam(vocals) always had a sharp wit and sense of humor. This only became more extreme and off the wall as MRP existed. Prior hXc fans felt alienated and some just flat out offended by what they thought was absurd, ridiculous or just terrible.

I fucking loved it.

Their first show in Richmond MRP opened for Avail, which at the time was a huge hXc/anthemy"sing along chorus" style band from VA, too. When the lights on the stage came on, a woman walking from the left towards the center stage then off to the right held up a sign, as if in a boxing match, that read"Next up, Men's Recovery Project." She then exited.

At that moment, a figure at both left and right of the stage wearing boxes on their heads with amateurish faces drawn on it arrive, looking at the other. They then ran towards one another, smacked into each other and walked off. Then the lady arrives again, this time with a sign reading"This has been Men's Recovery Project."

Several, several other tales of MRP, but we'll save them for another entry.

Enjoy.

Frank Talk About Humans

Part 1

Part 2

1. Clark In My Car
2. Homo?
3. Slap On Some Pants
4. They Found My Naked Body By The River
5. All Music Is Shit To God
6. Frank Talk About Mutants
7. Problem?
8. Domestic Phone Call
9. Explanation Of Head Troubles
10. Smokin' That Magic Rock
11. Eating Contest
12. Ugly Interracial Couple
13. Frank Talk About Mutants, Also
14. Frank Talk About Mutants (Carl Cullins Remix)
15. Smokin' That Magic Rock (Zionist Remix)
16. Explanation Of Head Troubles (Empirically Verifiable Science Remix)
17. All Music Is Shit To God (Ed Powers Tribal Remix)
18. Homo? (Neighborhood Plumbing Remix)
19. Domestic Phone Call (Exhausted Engineer Remix)
20. Explanation Of Head Troubles (Children's Problem Remix)
21. Eating Contest (Parisian Remix)
22. Domestic Phone Call (Plastic Fruit Cups Remix)
23. Problem? (Owner's Remix)
24. Slap On Some Pants (Trail Mix Remix)
25. Domestic Phone Call (Special Remix)
26. All Music Is Shit To God (Fuck You Remix)
27. Domestic Phone Call (Artificial Leg Remix)
28. Frank Talk About Mutants (Marshall Glickman Remix)
29. Smokin' That Magic Rock (John Wilcox Remix)
30. All Music Is Shit To God (DNA Sequencer Failure Remix)
31. Domestic Phone Call (Inflatable Remix)
32. Slap On Some Pants (Halftime Remix)
33. Eating Contest (Emergency Remix)
34. Explanation Of Head Troubles (Empowerment Pants Remix)
35. Encompass
36. Slap On Some Pants (Trouble Remix)
37. Domestic Phone Call (Cookout Fluid Remix)
38. Homo? ("They Ain't Suing Nobody" Remix)
39. Domestic Phone Call (Negro Remix)
40. Frank Talk About Mutants (Arnold Clausen Remix)
41. Domestic Phone Call (Wankle-Rotary Engine Remix)
42. All Music Is Shit To God (Monoroid Remix)
43. Explanation Of Head Troubles (Malfunction Remix)
44. Slap On Some Pants (Waste Of Resources Remix)
45. Older Men

R.I.P. George Carlin

2008-06-23T07:58:00.007-05:00

I just found out this morning that George Carlin died of a heart attack in California at the age of 71.

George was one of my all time favorite comedians. Right up there with Richard Pryor, Bill Cosby, Red Fox, etc. He always found ways to make the public think forward and for themselves. Not what an institution demands them to. I am certainly glad I had the chance to see him perform live.

He will be missed.

1937 - 2008

R.I.P.

Ancestors: Neptune With Fire

2008-06-21T21:21:00.002-05:00

I just discovered this band recently and really love their debut LP on Tee Pee Records Neptune With Fire.

Ancestors is a psych/progressive/doom metal band from L.A. They formed in 2006 as a three piece slowly adding 2 more members.

This release features only two tracks both of which are pretty long. The first clocks in at 16:46 and the second at 21:38. So you can imagine that with all the sub genre references given, these are pretty epic songs.

Give this a try. If you're a fan of all or any of the Doom Metal sub genres, you'll love this...I would hope.

Neptune With Fire

1. Orcus' Avarice - 16:46
2. Neptune With Fire - 21:38

MUXTAPE MONDAY

2008-06-15T22:21:00.000-05:00

Tacos Mix Tape #11

Now you make one.

CNN's "Crossfire" featuring Frank Zappa / 1986

2008-06-12T15:54:00.000-05:00

I couldn't resist.

Tribute To Flexi-pop: Vol.1 & 2

2008-06-12T09:31:00.007-05:00

Flexi-pop was a magazine that existed in the early 80's. The magazine came with singles, even whole tapes or albums, presenting the "new wave" of modern music. So far there are at least ten "Tribute to Flexi-pop" compilations and ten "Return of Flexi-pop." Each one contains a regular CD length of tracks. Also see the "None Night of Flexi-pop", "New Wave Complex", "Shockwaves" and "Tribute to Some Bizarre" compilations.

I have learned that these comps are not linked to the Flexi-pop magazine in any way besides the use of the name of the magazine. Evidently, the intent was to pay tribute to the spirit of the sounds highlighted by Flexi-pop in the early 80s. These compilations came to be during the late 90's with file P2P file share programs.

These two here are probably some of the best available. Shortly after a few were created, many more people became involved and wanted to contribute to the cause. Knowing this now makes sense to me as to why they became a little further detached from what the earlier compilations sounded like.

Very minimal yet timeless electronic music. Give it a try if that speaks to you.

Vol.1

1. The Vyllies - Give Me A Name
2. Ceramic Hello - Gestures
3. Snowy Red - Never Alive
4. Neon - Dark Age
5. Njurmännen - Stadvisan
6. Indians In Moskow - Singing In French
7. Pink Industry - Time For a Chance
8. Polyphonic Size - Mode
9. Stephen Spera - Sound Of The Crowd
10. Die Radierer - Angriff Auf´s Schlaraffenland
11. ZSKA - Keinen Teddybär
12. El Aviador - Dro - La Chica De Plexiglas
13. Fjose - Nobody Is Like You
14. The Wake - Patrol
15. Doppler Effect - Tim
16. Silvia - Zuerst Ich
17. Nine Circles - What Is There Left
18. Soft Cell - Metro MRX

Vol.2

1. The Metronomes - Ballad Of The Metronome
2. Rational Youth - I Want To See The Light
3. Das Kabinette - The Cabinet
4. The Misz - Even Bad Times Are Good
5. Surplus Stock - Let´s Kill Each Other
6. El Aviador Dro - El Ultimo Asalto A La Bastilla
7. R Steven Moore - What Are You Looking At
8. Träneninvasion - Sentimental
9. x-Quadrat - Kauf Dir Die Freiheit
10. Metamorphus Nex - Die Idee
11. Die Gesunden - Die Gesunden Kommen
12. Christoph Glowalla - Erde
13. Cheiron - Land After Life
14. U Bahn x - Young Hearts Of Erurope
15. Mythos - Robot Secret Agents
16. uv-Pop - No Songs Tomorrow
17. The Actor - Deutsches Mädchen
18. Pink Industry - State Of Grace

UPDATE: Iggy Pop, This Heat, Silver Apples and Amon Düül II available again

2008-06-12T09:13:00.005-05:00

I am adding new links for the Iggy Pop, This Heat, Silver Apples & Amon Düül II records. Just select their respected articles and go from there.

Also, you may notice that I have added some links to the right. Please take the time to view their pages when convenient. I'm sure you can find something of interest.

If anyone has any requests, feel free to contact.

Public Image Limited Interviews

2008-06-06T16:29:00.003-05:00

A few weeks back I posted a P.I.L. record entitled Flowers of Romance, which happens to be one of my favorite records by them.

In the posting, I mentioned that I enjoyed the banters of Lydon and co. on television. Most people get turned off and I admit, he can be a little over baring at times. Mostly because I think he just doesn't appear to take things seriously. Or, at least not taking the interview serious.

Below are some of the best moments of P.I.L. live on television. I suggest checking them out.

John Lydon and Keith Levene on the Tom Snyder Show 1980

Part 1

Part 2

P.I.L. performing live followed by interview on a British show called "Check It Out"

And finally, PIL on American Bandstand 1980

Naked City: Torture Garden

2008-06-05T21:59:00.004-05:00

This band was basically a composition workshop. When I stopped writing for the band, we broke up. Compositionally the challenge I set for myself was to see how much I could come up with given the limitations of the simple sax, guitar, keyboard, bass, drums format. - John Zorn

As mentioned in prior posts, I took a liking to extreme music. Something about growing up in middle America, bored adolescence and over all frustration with a small town that I grew up in.

At some point, a friend of mine in 92 introduced me to Naked City. Knowing that I enjoyed fast, brutal sounds, he thought Torture Garden would be an interesting listen for me, to say the least.

In 1988, Naked City was born. Featuring Zorn on saxophone, Bill Frisell on guitars, Fred Frith on bass, Wayne Horvitz on keys, Joey Baron on drums and occasional vocals from Yamatsuka Eye, Bob Dorough, and later Mike Patton.

In the early 80's, Zorn established himself with the New York downtown musical movement. Although he primarily was playing jazz, he had a respect for brutal hardcore and metal. Such appreciation of hardcore bands like Agnostic Front and Napalm Death, along with his other influences, experimented with compositional form and cover versions.

What you would expect from a Naked City release would be Jazz then at a moments notice, pure white noise, then to Country then to Grindcore or Death Metal. The compositions were so tight and flat out brilliant in my eyes.

Along with this brutality, it became signature of Zorn to use very disturbing imagery. One album cover depicted a live execution of a young woman in Asia being hacked, sliced and mutilated by the general public. Of course, the poor woman was conscience. Another cover shows a severed head from an autopsy and another, a mob style killing showing the victim face down on the pavement in his own pool of blood. Perfect for the sound of Naked City, if you ask me.

This record is a crazy roller coaster of genre mash ups. Give it a listen. Its fun!

Torture Garden

1. Blood Is Thin - 1:04
2. Demon Sanctuary - 0:42
3. Thrash Jazz Assassin - 0:49
4. Dead Spot - 0:35
5. Bonehead - 0:56
6. Speedball - 0:40
7. Blood Duster - 0:18
8. Pile Driver - 0:38
9. Shangkuan Ling-Feng - 1:19
10. Numbskull - 0:32
11. Perfume of a Critic's Burning Flesh - 0:29
12. Jazz Snob Eat Shit - 0:28
13. The Prestigitator - 0:48
14. No Reason To Believe - 0:28
15. Hellraiser - 0:42
16. Torture Garden - 0:40
17. Slan - 0:26
18. Hammerhead - 0:12
19. The Ways of Pain - 0:36
20. The Noose - 0:13
21. Sack of Shit - 0:49
22. Blunt Instrument - 0:56
23. Osaka Bondage - 1:18
24. Igneous Ejaculation - 0:25
25. Shallow Grave - 0:43
26. Ujaku - 0:32
27. Kaoru - 0:55
28. Dead Dread - 0:49
29. Billy Liar - 0:15
30. Victims of Torture - 0:27
31. Speedfreaks - 0:52
32. New Jersey Scum Swamp - 0:44
33. S & M Sniper - 0:17
34. Pigfucker - 0:27
35. Cairo Chop Shop - 0:26
36. Fuck the Facts - 0:15
37. Obeah Man - 0:21
38. Facelifter - 1:00
39. N.Y. Flat Top Box - 0:46
40. Whiplash - 0:23
41. The Blade - 0:43
42. Gob of Spit - 0:23

DJ Screw: Codeine Fiend

2008-06-04T14:14:00.002-05:00

Here's a mixtape by the late Robert Earl Davis, better known as Dj Screw from the Screwed Up Click.

DJ Screw was known for pioneering the Chopped and Screwed movement, which at the time of this release, as with many others, was only really known in Houston, TX and the south in general. P2P programs such as Napster in the late 90's is what brought his underground cassettes worldwide. This gave him much attention and respect by hip hop artists and fans alike.

This release is one of several hundred cassettes released by DJ Screw. You can still purchase many of them at Screwed Up Records And Tapes.

Codeine Fiend

Throbbing Gristle: Best Of....Vol.1

2008-06-01T15:22:00.004-05:00

Throbbing Gristle would have to be, in my opinion, one the best Industrial/Experimental groups ever to exist. Even if they started out as performance art, what they became was something very amazing and special.

Sure, others may care less about them. Often turned off by the mixed messages and imagery used live such as pornography and Nazi concentration camps, TG's purpose was actually to explore the darker side of human nature. The obsessive sides of human conditioning, rather than play pretty pop music. And, of course, this aesthetic gave them a notorious rep.

In highschool, a close friend of mine who was much into obscure and electronic music introduced me to them. He had a few cassettes and would play them often in his car during a late night some weekend. Always nice and disturbing.

Over time, I could see how TG influenced many groups to come. By improvising live, creating multiple versions of a "studio" song, prolonging songs beyond it's normal time frame to multiple live releases documenting their progression over the years like document files.

If you have never given TG a try, this is a good release to start to check out. A must have.

Best Of....Vol.1

Side A

Side B

All songs by Genesis P-Orridge, Peter Christopherson, Cosey Fanni Tutti & Chris Carter

Side A

1. (untitled) - 1:13
2. (untitled) - 2:24
3. (untitled) - 0:56
4. (untitled) - 1:45
5. (untitled) - 15:37
6. (untitled) - 1:45
7. (untitled) - 1:13
8. (untitled) - 3:06
9. (untitled) - 1:13
10. (untitled) - 1:01
11. (untitled) - 9:09
12. (untitled) - 6:39
13. (untitled) - 0:27

Side B

1. (untitled) - 1:00
2. (untitled) - 0:40
3. (untitled) - 10:30
4. (untitled) - 1:13
5. Very Friendly (Part 1) - 11:55
6. Very Friendly (Part 2) - 10:13
7. We Hate You Little Girls - 2:47
8. We Hate You Little Girls - 2:50
9. American Magician Talking - 1:01
10. New Mama"/"Look Out Joe - 2:59

Boredoms: Boretronix 2

2008-05-29T20:56:00.004-05:00

Summer of 1993, phony01 bought Pop Tatari on cd and brought it to the local coffee shop/show venue/teenage loitering club I volunteered at. At this point, I already really enjoyed a lot of extreme music of some form or another, but I never heard anything like Boredoms.

The cd cleared out most of the room, but half of us stuck around and enjoyed what we were listening to. Much of it was pretty comical and cartoonish then from out of no where very violent or degrading on the ears in some way. Usually a hi pitched tone for minutes.

Lucky for phony01, he was able to see BO during that release at Lalapalooza. His report on the show was that "they played everything live as how you would hear it on cd." Knowing that gave me more respect for them and was intrigued.

This is a rare cassette that was released in 1989, just a few years prior to the Pop Tatari release. Only 100 existed. I think this cassette has some great material on it. Even if it is a little low fi, the energy of Boredoms will always stand out on whatever they do.

Boretronix 2

There is no track listing for this release

Camberwell Now: All's Well

2008-05-28T21:39:00.000-05:00

Camberwell Now formed in 1982 after This Heat disbanded. Their drummer/vocalist Charles Hayward, bassist and vocalist Trefor Goronwy (who replaced Gareth Williams in This Heat when he quit), and This Heat's old sound technician Stephen Rickard rounded the bill. Stephen is noted as bringing the studio to the live show.

I was introduced to Camberwell Now from a friend this year. He was giving me a ride to my old practice space to pick up some equipment when he played "Daddy Needs a Throne" in his car. Needless to say, I was blown away.

Me: "Who's this?"

Friend: "Camberwell Now. The drummer and bassist of This Heat's band afterwards."

Me: "Damn.....sick."

This record is, essentially, everything they released. Which was one full length entitled The Ghost Trade, two 12" EPs and some tracks for a magazine and some compilations. There's some tracks missing on this collection/reissue, but I'm uncertain as to what they are.

Like This Heat, there is a lot of studio trickery, use of electronics, intricate bass lines and musicianship. Very impressive stuff.

All's Well

Part 1

Part 2

Below is the track listing along with release title/credits

Meridian
1 Cutty Sark (2:48)
Bass, Tambourine - Charles Bullen
2 Pearl Divers (3:31)
3 Spirit Of Dunkirk (2:39)
4 Resplash (7:55)

5 Daddy Needs A Throne (3:24)

The Ghost Trade
6 Working Nights (7:45)
7 Sitcom (4:40)
Voice - Mary Philips
8 Wheat Futures (6:14)
9 Speculative Fiction (6:11)
10 Green Lantern (3:16)
11 The Ghost Trade (11:14)
Voice - Polly Edmett

Greenfingers
12 Greenfingers (5:52)
13 Mystery Of The Fence (3:11)
14 Know How (3:44)
15 Element Unknown (1:35)

Can: Tago Mago

2008-05-27T16:00:00.000-05:00

Music critic Piero Scaruffi wrote, "With just one album, Can pioneered several genres that would become popular in the 1990s: industrial music, noise-rock, trip-hop and post-rock."

I would see the record covers at stores growing up as a teen, but had no idea what the band was going for. In magazines, many performers, groups, etc I loved would site Can, especially this release, as a major influence. When I was traveling through out mainland Europe six and seven years ago, friends would play their albums.

"You must hear them. They're simply amazing.." my friend Simon said."They're my all time favorite."

Tago Mago was Can's second LP. This record featured Kenji"Damo"Suzuki on vocals, which replaced Malcolm Mooney after he had a break down. It should also be noted that Tago Mago was recorded in castle Schloss Nörvenich in Cologne, Germany.

If you taken an interest or note to any of the music prior to this posting, you should do the same with this release/group. A definite favorite and still to this day refreshing to the ears.

Tago Mago

Part 1

Part 2

All songs written by Karoli, Czukay, Liebezeit, Schmidt and Suzuki

1. Paperhouse - 7:29
2. Mushroom - 4:08
3. Oh Yeah - 7:22
4. Halleluhwah – 18:32
5. Aumgn – 17:22
6. Peking O - 11:35
7. Bring Me Coffee or Tea - 6:47

Ghost Hypnotic Underworld

2008-05-26T15:08:00.000-05:00

I really don't have a whole lot of knowledge about Ghost except that they formed during 1984 in Kyoto, Japan. It's been noted that the band led a nomadic lifestyle in Tokyo and set up living quarters in abandoned subway stations as well as ancient ruins.

There have been some line up changes over the years, but core contributor, Masaki Batoh, still remains current as well as the founding member.

You can find much of their catalog on Drag City Records. Those who take interest in psych, experimental, acid folk, progressive rock should enjoy this group.

Hypnotic Underworld

Part 1

Part 2

Part 3

1. Hypnotic Underground Pt. 1: God Took a Picture of His Illness on This Ground – 13:31
2. Hypnotic Underground Pt. 2: Escaped and Lost Down in Medina – 7:09
3. Hypnotic Underground Pt. 3: Aramaic Barbarous Dawn – 2:54
4. Hypnotic Underground Pt. 4: Leave the World! – 0:22
5. Hazy Paradise – 4:52
6. Kiseichukan Kite – 5:03
7. Piper – 6:41
8. Ganagmanag – 10:04
9. Feed – 7:06
10. Holy High – 6:09
11. Dominoes/Celebration for the Gray Days – 6:43

Horace Andy: Dance Hall Style

2008-05-21T09:19:00.000-05:00

"My music supports social and political awareness of minority groups and underpriveleged communities around the world. I have never encouraged hatred or violence against any group in society. I hope to help bring communities together through my music."

Born February 15th, 1951 in Kingston, Jamaica, Horace was raised and involved in what one would call Roots Reggae.

Myself, I wasn't really too into Reggae growing up. Granted, few songs would surface to the mainstream via soundtrack or re-release that I would enjoy. Then there was punk from the late 70's and early 80's(mostly Britain) who took notice of Sound Systems and started to use it as influence. Most notable for that would be the Clash. They themselves could put out an entire record of covers that were Reggae, Dub, Dance Hall, etc.

Dub and Dance Hall was what grabbed my attention. Over time, I really enjoyed sparse vocals, long and extended drum lines as well as bass. So naturally it spoke to me. Eventually, I just found myself playing Dub on my way to work, running errands, etc. It was easy, calm and just made me happy.

On this release, Horace had more involvement with instruments. He had much to do with the beats, bass, rhythm and lead guitar. I enjoy these versions of his classics a little more than a lot of his releases. I think the music compliments his falsetto vocals really well. This was also a great time for Wackie's Records/Studio(Bronx, NY), which was responsible for this recording and many others such as Jah T.

"Spying Glass" as well as "Lets Live In Love" are amazing tracks. If you enjoy this, do some research on Wackie's Releases, 70's/80's Reggae in NY and Jamaica.

Dance Hall Style

1. Money, Money - 6:17
2. Lonely Woman - 6:25
3. Cuss Cuss - 7:04
4. Stop The Fuss - 7:16
5. Spying Glass - 5:12
6. Lets Live In Love - 13:44

Television: Marquee Moon

2008-05-19T21:12:00.000-05:00

CBGB staples and one of the most critically acclaimed groups of our time, Television didn't quite leave a huge commercial mark, rather a cult following.

Also noted as laying foreground to the post-punk era, Television also had been compared to the likes of a jam band. Some even went as far as saying that they were the Grateful Dead of punk. Thats stretching it a bit, even if it was 1977.

In 1973, Richard Hell along with Tom Verlaline, formed Neon Boys. Billy Ficca was added shortly after. In '74, Neon Boys disbanded. Later that year they reformed as Television.

This LP was released in 1977 on Elektra Records. Along side with Patti Smith Group, Ramones and Talking Heads, they remained a very prominent group in the late 70's. Not a bad era, if you ask me. It's my favorite and obviously many others as well. You can hear the influences in music today. Very popular music, even. Not a bad thing by any means. I'd much rather hear someone's take on "Venus" than, oh, "Bad To The Bone."

Marquee Moon

All songs written by Tom Verlaine unless otherwise indicated.

1. See No Evil – 3:53
2. Venus – 3:51
3. Friction – 4:44
4. Marquee Moon – 10:40
5. Elevation – 5:07
6. Guiding Light" – 5:35 (Lloyd, Verlaine)
7. Prove It – 5:02
8. Torn Curtain – 6:56

Brian Eno & David Byrne: My Life In The Bush Of Ghosts

2008-05-16T19:14:00.002-05:00

Not only was, but still continues to be a mind blowing record, My Life In The Bush Of Ghosts also doesn't cease to amaze people who love recording/engineering stories.

You know, like how The White Album had several micro studios going at the same time because all members of the Beatles were spitting out songs every two mins. Or how Axl Rose had sex with then drummer Steven Adler's girlfriend in the vocal booth while tracking for "Rocket Queen." If you didn't know that already and I just ruined that song for you for good, my condolences.

My Life was recorded & engineered with all analog equipment. This also meant the samples. Obviously agonizing as it can be syncing without any digital technology, the accidents and mistakes proved to create new ideas and a whole new feel to what originally was planned.

Speaking of the samples, the "vocals" were primarly all samples. Another pioneering move that helped inspire several artists of random genre's down the road.. Avat-garde, hip-hop, Djing, etc. Much all pays homage to this release.

Another note would be Eno & Byrne's use of common items to replace parts of drums. A frying pan as a snare for a song, a cardboard box as a kick drum for another, it all helped create fresh sounds/tones that wasn't typicaly heard. Well, maybe early industrial, but we can save that for another article.

Try it. You might just enjoy it. Also, take note to the song credits. They're not your standard "vocals and synth by Dick McHerald."

My Life In The Bush Of Ghosts

All tracks written by Eno/Byrne except as indicated.

1.America Is Waiting (arr. Eno, Byrne, Bill Laswell, Tim Wright, & David Van Tieghem)Sample:"Unidentified indignant radio host, San Francisco, April 1980."

2.Mea Culpa, Samples:"Inflamed caller and smooth politician replying, both unidentified. Radio call-in show, New York, July 1979."

3.Regiment(Eno/Byrne/Busta Jones), Samles:"Dunya Yusin, Lebanese mountain singer. (From The Human Voice in the World of Islam, Tangent Records TGS131)"

4.Help Me Somebody, Samples:"Reverend Paul Morton, broadcast sermon, New Orleans, June 1980."

5.The Jezebel Spirit, Samples:"Unidentified exorcist, New York, September 1980."

6.Qu'ran, Samples:"Algerian Muslims chanting Qu'ran. (Same source as 3 (Tangent Records, above))"

7.Moonlight In Glory, Samples:"The Moving Star Hall Singers, Sea Islands, Georgia. (From The Moving Star Hall Singers, Folkways FS 3841). Produced by Guy Carawan."

8.The Carrier, Samples:"Dunya Yusin, Lebanese mountain singer. (From The Human Voice in the World of Islam, Tangent Records TGS131)"

9.A Secret Life, Samples:"Reverend Paul Morton, broadcast sermon, New Orleans, June 1980."

10.Come With Us, Samples:"Unidentified radio evangelist, San Francisco, April 1980."

Magnetic Fields: Strange Powers

2008-05-14T10:38:00.000-05:00

I heard this song at a show last week pumping through the PA between acts. It had been quite a while since I last heard it and brought back some memories.

This morning as I was viewing my friends shared articles, there was one with the drummer/pianist Claudia Gonson of Magnetic Fields. The whole bit was about her boyfriend from when she was 15-19 and their mix tapes. She found one and it, too brought back some memories. As she put it, "some of the best songs ever."

I just thought it was ironic and it all came full circle.

Enjoy.

Magnetic Fields"Strange Powers"

PHONY01

2008-05-13T00:08:00.000-05:00

Thanks to phony01 for the Shout o'oot!

UPDATE

2008-05-12T23:51:00.000-05:00

The links to some of the files have been dismantled until Tuesday. Sorry if this bums you out for a second of two.

Also, all files will be up for one week only after it's initial posting.

Suggestions or requests are always welcome.

Tacos

David Bowie: Low

2008-05-11T15:01:00.000-05:00

As mentioned in the Iggy Pop entry I placed a few days back, David Bowie was influenced by the current scene of Krautrock such as Kraftwerk and Neu!, that he was using the Iggy sessions as a genuine pig for his Berlin Trilogy.

The trilogy included the releases Low, Heroes & Lodger. Low was released in 1977 as well as Heroes. 1979 would see the release of Lodger.

Even if the influence for these was in the vein of the German scene at the time, it was still a stand out record. Very progressive and influential, even at an early date.

Often regarded as Bowie's post cocaine use era or depression/dark period, this album remains a favorite for not only the lyrical content, but the its forward thinking music structures/tones.

Like Iggy, most of you have favorite releases and era's. This happens to be mine. Especially after the Spiders From Mars imagery you seen in modern groups, art and design. With this release, there is no emulating it.

David Bowie: Low

All tracks written by David Bowie, except where noted.

1. "Speed of Life" – 2:46
2. "Breaking Glass" (Bowie, Dennis Davis, George Murray) – 1:52
3. "What in the World" – 2:23
4. "Sound and Vision" – 3:05
5. "Always Crashing in the Same Car" – 3:33
6. "Be My Wife" – 2:58
7. "A New Career in a New Town" – 2:53
8. "Warszawa" (Bowie, Brian Eno) – 6:23
9. "Art Decade" (Bowie, Brian Eno) – 3:46
10. "Weeping Wall" (Bowie, Brian Eno) – 3:28
11. "Subterraneans" (Bowie, Brian Eno) – 5:39

Please note that all files will be deleted one week from posting.

Public Image Ltd: Flowers Of Romance

2008-05-11T12:18:00.000-05:00

This LP is on my "top 20 releases of all time" list. Reversed tape loops, trebly distorted guitars, prominent & heavily processed dual drumlines, amplified wristwatches, reversed piano and televised opera. This record has it all. But with no surprise, most people who heard this in 1981 didn't quite get it.

When I was younger and just starting to fully recognize punk rock, there was one group I could never really get behind. The Sex Pistols. Just could not handle it. Granted, they had a crucial existence in music. But I think their existence proved worthy only due to who they influenced down the road. Such as Joy Division, The Buzzcocks or The Clash. I'm sure I will make a few more enemies by stating that. But what can you do?

The record that introduced me to PIL was the metal box set. I would stare at it day to day at my local record store. Finally, a friend purchased the CD format of it. I was very pleased, but still not fully sold on them. Until I heard Flowers Of Romance.

For a minute there, I was trying my best to find the most obnoxious, obscure, far from commercial "sound" as I could. This release fit perfectly in that void of my music library. Already enjoying the likes of Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds, Birthday Party and Neaubauten, I was blown away that I could one day say"yeah...I actually like a John Lydon band!"

If you've been turned off by John's banter, be it in random press and televised performances, just try and put it aside. Trust me. Just pretend that guy is someone different all together. Although, now that I think of it, there have been some pretty amazing banters/explosive attitude in some televised interviews. Nevermind.

But don't take MY word for it. Let this release speak for itself.

Public Image Ltd. Flowers Of Romance

All songs written by John Lydon/Keith Levene except * by Lydon/Levene/Martin Atkins.

1. "Four Enclosed Walls" – 4:44 *
2. "Track 8" – 3:15
3. "Phenagen" – 2:40
4. "Flowers of Romance" – 2:51
5. "Under the House" – 4:33 *
6. "Hymie's Him" – 3:18
7. "Banging the Door" – 4:49 *
8. "Go Back" – 3:46
9. "Francis Massacre" – 3:31
10. "Flowers of Romance (Instrumental)" Bonus CD track
11. "Home Is Where the Heart Is" Bonus CD track
12. "Another" Bonus CD track

This Heat: Self Titled LP

2008-05-11T09:30:00.001-05:00

What we have here is the debut LP from London's This Heat which was released in 1978 on Rough Trade Records. The group consisted of Charles Bullen, Charles Hayward & Gareth Williams.

One stand out character of this group would be that each member was a multi-instrumentalist. For instance, on this release, Charles Bullen is credited for playing guitar, clarinet, viola, vocals & tapes. Charles Hayward handled drums, keyboards, vocals, tapes & finally Gareth utilized keyboard, guitar, bass, vocals as well as tapes.

Formed in 1975, This Heat stood out like no other partially due to it's highly innovative take on progressive rock or even punk. While throwing in various genre influences, they were also pretty abrasive as well as very politically charged.

Eventually splitting in 1982, members went on to form the likes of Camberwell Now & Lifetones.

This is a great LP to have in your post-punk, noise-rock, progressive rock collection. Slap whatever title you want on it, it's still going to be what it is. Far ahead of it's time.

This Heat Self Titled

1. "Test Card" – 0:47
2. "Horizontal Hold" – 6:56
3. "Not Waving" – 7:26
4. "Water" – 3:10
5. "Twilight Furniture" – 5:06
6. "24 Track Loop" – 5:57
7. "Diet of Worms" – 3:09
8. "Music Like Escaping Gas" - 3:40
9. "Rainforest" – 2:55
10. "The Fall of Saigon" – 5:10
11. "Test Card" – 3:11 * Bonus Track

Amon Düül II: Phallus Dei

2008-05-10T16:38:00.001-05:00

This is the debut LP for Amon Düül II after splitting with the "Amon Düül commune" in Munich, Germany. It's been said that the split was partly due to some of the original Amon Düül's members "incompetence." An excerpt from their Wiki page states this about the commune:

"Amon Düül began in 1967 as a radical political art commune of Munich based artists calling themselves, in part, after the Egyptian Sun God Amon; Düül has been cited as a character from Turkish fiction.

The commune quickly attained cult status for its free form musical improvisations, usually performed around the happenings and demonstrations of the contemporary politicized youth movement. The orthodoxy within the commune had a highly liberal attitude to artistic freedom, valuing enthusiasm and attitude over artistic ability; membership was fluid; anyone who was part of the commune was part of the group. However a faction within was more ambitious, conventional and musically structured, leading to the inevitable split within the collective, which separated in 1969 into the components "Amon Düül I" and "Amon Düül II"."

Considered a "cornerstone for German psychadelic music" due to it's unique sounds, layers and vocal styles. Challenging for many people, but definetly worth checking out. Especially if you take interest in how "micro genre's" split and branch off, influence others and so forth.

Phallus Dei

1. "Kanaan" – 4:02
2. "Dem Guten, Schönen, Wahren" – 6:12
3. "Luzifer's Ghilom" – 8:34
4. "Henriette Krötenschwanz" – 2:03
5. "Phallus Dei" – 20:48

Silver Apples: Contact

2008-05-10T12:43:00.002-05:00

Here's the second album, Contact, by Silver Apples. This was released in 1969 on KAPP Records just like the previous release. Since 1997, you can purchase it as a companion to the self titled on CD through MCA Records. It was also re-released on a UK label called Radioactive Records in 2003.

A couple interesting facts about this release:

Silver Apples faced a lawsuit from PAN AM due to the LP art. It featured Simeon and Danny in a cockpit of a PAN AM airplane with drug paraphernalia. The inner art showed the two amongst a plane wreckage as well. PAN AM then sued the Silver Apples for $100,000. With that and KAPP Records folding to MCA, the band called it quits at the end of 1969.
Rocket From The Crypt covered the first track"You & I" on a rare 3 CD compilation.

The tracks "Ruby" & "Confusion" features Simeon playing a Banjo.

I enjoy this record as much as the first, to be honest. Some just think of it as an extension of the self titled, which makes sense.

Dive into this one this weekend.

Silver Apples Contact

1. "You and I" (Silver Apples, Simeon, Cecil Taylor) 3:24
2. "Water" (Silver Apples, Simeon, Taylor) 4:18
3. "Ruby" (Joy May Creasy, Silver Apples) 2:32
4. "Gypsy Love" (Silver Apples, Simeon, Stanley Warren, Cecil Taylor) 5:36
5. "You're Not Foolin' Me" (Silver Apples, Simeon, Taylor) 6:26
6. "I Have Known Love" (Eileen Lewellen, Silver Apples, Simeon, Taylor) 3:53
7. "A Pox on You" (Silver Apples, Simeon, Taylor) 5:11
8. "Confusion" (Silver Apples, Simeon, Taylor) 3:34
9. "Fantasies" (Silver Apples, Simeon, Taylor) 5:57

Iggy Pop: The Idiot/Lust For Life

2008-05-08T23:15:00.002-05:00

Everyone has heard his name. In one way or another, you have to respect him. His early solo career, mostly pioneered by David Bowie(at least these two LP's)was, at the time, viewed as neutral at best. Mostly regarded as "creative/musical freedom, yet not fully convincing" by the likes of Rolling Stone and NME. But to fans, these were masterpieces. How can you argue with bands like Joy Division, Depeche Mode or even NIN citing these as "crucial releases."

To us fans, we say "fuck that." No matter what outlet you discovered him through: The Stooges, Bowie, Tin Machine, Trainspotting, etc, it had all lead back to these 2 records, in my opinion. Kinda like that "6 degrees of Keven Bacon game."
The background alone on these two records are sketchy at best. Granted over the years proper "credits to musicians played on the albums" and "purposes/inspirations for the songs/records" have surfaced, references are still misinformed or misguided, if you ask me. Bowie, in recent interviews, admits to "using Pop as a guinea pig to help me come up w/material for my German influenced trilogy."

Regardless, his music is timeless and to this day still receives much appraisal. Give them and try and see what people have been talking about for just under 31 years now.

Lust For Life

1. "Lust for Life" – 5:13 (lyrics: Iggy Pop, music: David Bowie)
2. "Sixteen" – 2:26 (Pop)
3. "Some Weird Sin" – 3:42 (lyrics: Pop, music: Bowie)
4. "The Passenger" – 4:44 (lyrics: Pop, music: Ricky Gardiner)
5. "Tonight" – 3:39 (lyrics: Pop, music: Bowie)
6. "Success" – 4:25 (lyrics: Pop, music: Bowie, Gardiner)
7. "Turn Blue" – 6:56 (lyrics: Pop, Walter Lacey, music: Bowie, Warren Peace)
8. "Neighborhood Threat" – 3:25 (lyrics: Pop, music: Bowie, Gardiner)
9. "Fall in Love with Me" – 6:30 (lyrics: Pop, music: Bowie, Hunt Sales, Tony Sales)

The Idiot

All tracks written by Iggy Pop and David Bowie except where noted.

1. "Sister Midnight" (Pop, Bowie, Carlos Alomar) – 4:19
2. "Nightclubbing" – 4:14
3. "Funtime" – 2:54
4. "Baby" – 3:24
5. "China Girl" – 5:08
6. "Dum Dum Boys" – 7:12
7. "Tiny Girls" – 2:59
8. "Mass Production" – 8:24

Silver Apples

2008-05-08T09:32:00.001-05:00

I was first introduced to Silver Apples nearly 10 years ago from a close friend. Clearly blown away just by it's unique sound and the fact that it came from 1968 NY, I began my hunt for this gem on vinyl. Shortly afterwards, I payed a visit to NY and was staying with another close friend who happened to have it on wax. Jealous, I asked "where would I find a copy in town?" I don't recall the name of the store off hand in Manhattan, but he brought me to it.

"I have so much credit at this store. I usually come in town(he lived in Jersey City)after I walk the dogs and just trade in/swap out LP's. You should find one there."

And yes, I did. An original copy in amazing shape, with the poster inside still......for $100.

One big frown on me!

Since then, I've seen it in random stores. Never in great shape, sadly.

Back to Silver Apples.

They "formed", rather turned into the Silver Apples after the demise/fall of The Overland Stage Electric Band. Simeon Coxe III essentially drowned out the rest of the group with his 1940's audio oscillator and they eventually left the group. This left Simeon only with drummer Danny Taylor and the Silver Apples took shape.

This is their debut record which was originally released on KAPP Records, which folded under MCA shortly after.

What really made the group unique was their equipment and what they used live. A quote from their Wiki page:

The arsenal of oscillators used eventually grew, according to their first LP liner notes, to include "nine audio oscillators piled on top of each other and eighty-six manual controls to control lead, rhythm and bass pulses with hands, feet and elbows". Simeon devised a system of telegraph keys and pedals to control tonality and chord changes, and reportedly never learned to play traditional piano-styled keyboards or synthesizers.

Give this record a try. Better yet, if you find a copy, but it!

Silver Apples Self Titled LP.

1. "Oscillations" (Danny Taylor, Stanley Warren) 2:48
2. "Seagreen Serenades" (Simeon, Warren) 2:55
3. "Lovefingers" (Simeon, Warren) 4:11
4. "Program" (Simeon, Warren) 4:07
5. "Velvet Cave" (Simeon, Warren) 3:30
6. "Whirly-Bird" (Simeon, Warren) 2:41
7. "Dust" (Simeon, Warren) 3:40
8. "Dancing Gods" (Navajo Indian Ceremonial) 5:57
9. "Misty Mountain" (Eileen Lewellen, Simeon) 3:26

Italians Do It Better

2008-03-28T13:07:00.000-05:00

Here's a cool interview that was on Public Access Media featuring Mike Simonetti and Johnny Jewel of Italians Do It Better. Along with this label, Mike also operates Troubleman Unlimited. As for Johnny, he can be found in the groups Glass Candy & Chromatics.

Give these label's a try and the band's a listen.

http://vivaitalians.blogspot.com/

http://www.troublemanunlimited.com/

Hmmm

2008-03-23T15:17:00.000-05:00

Nothing at the moment.

Gary Wilson "Gary's in the park"

Wikipedia Link