music, me, and a toast to the death of the music industry
Been listening to music. And I’m gonna tell you about it! Lots of new albums out lately and I’ve got a couple to plug. Instead of copying and pasting links from record company and band websites, I just took a picture of music spread out on my bed. And yes, music is sexier on my bed.
First up, the one with the greyhound sitting amongst the fruit; Shellac’s new album “Excellent Italian Greyhound” sounds like the Shellac you know and love. First album from them in 6 years or so. Deep grinding rhythm section that’s probably mic’d seven ways to Sunday. The first song, “The Death of Radio” has that sarcastic Albini charm we’ve come to know and love; a humorous eulogy to a poisoned medium. I’m not sure if the album is as good as 1000 Hurts, but if you’re a fan you’ll want it for sure. If anything, the packaging is impeccable. The LP, as usual, comes with the CD. Steve Albini records the albums with the intention that they will be played in analog and it’s great they push that idea by throwing in the CD for free. What can I say, we live in a portable music society. Memorable lyrics include “I was born wearing pants! (be prepared!).”
Which brings me to the next one, moving clockwise to This Runs on Blood. TROB is from Flagstaff and I actually just got this album at a show a few nights ago. I have to admit, when I first heard them in a basement months ago, I thought they were obnoxious. No bass player, lots of body odor, and pulsing sea gull sounds. What? Anyway, this band has grown on me like a bad rash, or an STD that just won’t let me get on with my life. The album is great. I think they only printed 300 of them (clear vinyl, CD included).
Moving on….Bad Brains have a new album….Rasta hardcore icons from the early 80’s DC scene. The first new one they’ve had in like 240 years. Well I don’t think it’s as good as everyone seems to think it is, but it’s really good. It almost makes up for the crappy albums they came out with in the late 80’s. I guess everyone should experiment (Into The Unknown?). Plus, if you hit up ebay right now (or feel free to open a record store in Flagstaff), you can get this handsome tri-color wax.
Last but certainly not least: The new Ghost Mice split with Andrew Jackson Jihad. I just got this CD today actually. I love Ghost Mice. I’ve seen them a few times. Anarcho-hippie-punks ala Plan-It-X fame: just Chris and his guitar and Hannah with her violin (and mandolin…and sometimes this French guy who plays the accordion). They’re not loud; they have no amps or P.A., but in my opinion, they’re punk as shit. I don’t know, they sing about real things from the heart, and there is something undeniably punk about being able to play on the spot, on a street corner, hitchhike or take trains to shows across Europe, or play in people’s basements, kitchens (which is where I believe I’ve seen them), and living rooms.
The last time I saw them, I wrote Chris a letter (a real letter) a few days after. I don’t remember exactly what I said, but I do remember that I was in a melancholy mood and that I was completely sincere. I remember that I thanked him for coming and playing and that, next time I’d be happy to cook him and Hannah a vegan meal. I just got a letter back and he included this CD for my enjoyment. I’ve listened to it three or four times by now. Ghost Mice, Andrew Jackson Jihad, the G-strings, and the F-holes are playing Flagstaff in early November. I can’t wait. (BTW, please don’t take any of this as a tip to write bands you like and expect free shit in the mail.)
Support music where music, ideas, and freedom win over beer and profits. Chances are you won’t find it on Itunes or Best Buy. Chances are there is great music in your own community, in your own neighborhood, on the corners of the most familar streets in your town. Pay attention and support it.
Unplug your radios and open your ears!
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