Tonight when I got home from work, I realized that it had been a little while since I’d read my Collected Sounds email. To the tune of over 300 unread emails. None of it spam.

So as I was plodding through it, I saw this gem! If you’re a fan of Vienna’s already you probably already know about this because maybe you don’t let 300 emails pile up in your inbox like some folks, ahem.

In case this is news to you…

The release dates is September 23, 2013

There will also be a tour (YAY!!) Barnaby Bright will open about half of the U.S. dates, and Alex Wong the other half. I don’t know Barnaby Bright (but Imma look it up right now) but Alex Wong is a freakin musical genius and I don’t say that often, or lightly.
Get his album, a City on a Lake [here].

Here are the tour dates, whew, she’s gonna be busy!!

* with Alex Wong
† with Barnaby Bright

SUMMER SOLO TOUR
9 Jul: Pittsburgh PA – Club Cafe
10 Jul: Buffalo NY – 9th Ward
11 Jul: Burlington VT – Higher Ground
12 Jul: Natick MA – Center for the Arts
13 Jul: Ogunquit ME – Jonathan’s
14 Jul: Londonderry NH – Tupelo Hall

ALBUM RELEASE PREVIEW (TRIO)
* 18 Aug: San Diego CA – Grand Del Mar

ALBUM RELEASE TOUR – U.S. (TRIO)
† 25 Sep: Evanston, IL – Space
† 26 Sep: Ann Arbor, MI – The Ark
* 27 Sep: Ann Arbor, MI – The Ark
† 28 Sep: Kent, OH – The Kent Stage
* 30 Sep: Northampton, MA – Iron Horse Music Hall
* 1 Oct: Boston, MA – Royale
* 2 Oct: Norfolk, CT – Infinity Hall
* 3 Oct: Uncasville, CT – Mohegan Sun Wolf Den
* 4 Oct: New York, NY – Highline Ballroom
* 5 Oct: Blairstown, NJ – Blairstown Historic Theatre
* 6 Oct: Annapolis, MD – Rams Head on Stage
* 8 Oct: Philadelphia, PA – World Café Live
* 9 Oct: Bethlehem, PA – Musikfest Café
* 10 Oct: Washington, DC – The Hamilton
* 11 Oct: Asheville, NC – Altamont Theatre
12 Oct: Durham, NC – The Carolina Theatre
* 13 Oct: Atlanta, GA – Eddie’s Attic

ALBUM RELEASE TOUR – GERMANY (TRIO)
15 Oct: Koblenz DE – Cafe Hahn
16 Oct: Karlsruhe DE – Tollhaus
17 Oct: Kaiserslautern DE – Kammgarn
18 Oct: Freiburg DE – Jazzhaus
19 Oct: Stuttgart DE – Theaterhaus
20 Oct: Nürnberg DE – Maritim
22 Oct: Helmnbrechts DE – Bürgerhaus
23 Oct: Dresden DE – Lukaskirche
24 Oct: Leipzig DE – Peterskirche
25 Oct: Kassel DE – Staatstheater
26 Oct: Worpswede DE – Music Hall
27 Oct: Bernau DE – Ofen Bar
28 Oct: Hamburg DE – Fabrik
29 Oct: Hannover DE – Kultursommer Schloss Landestrost
30 Oct: Mainz DE – Frankfurter Hof

ALBUM RELEASE TOUR – U.K. (TRIO)
1 Nov: London UK – Bush Hall

ALBUM RELEASE TOUR – U.S. (TRIO)
† 7 Nov: Austin, TX – One World Theatre
† 8 Nov: Houston, TX – Dosey Doe
† 9 Nov: Dallas, TX – Kessler Theatre
* 11 Nov: Phoenix, AZ – Musical Instrument Museum
* 13 Nov: Los Angeles, CA – Largo
14 Nov: Livermore, CA – Livermore Valley Performing Arts Center
16 Nov: San Francisco, CA – The Independent (2 Shows)
† 19 Nov: Portland, OR – Mississippi Studios
* † 20 Nov: Seattle, WA – Neptune
† 22 Nov: Sacramento, CA – Assembly
† 23 Nov: Saratoga, CA – Villa Montalvo Carriage House
† 4 Dec: Nashville, TN – The Basement
† 5 Dec: St. Louis, MO – Old Rock House
† 6 Dec: Lawrence, KS – Lawrence Art Center
† 7 Dec: Tulsa, OK – The Vanguard
† 8 Dec: Cedar Rapids, IA – Legion Arts Center
† 10 Dec: Minneapolis, MN – Dakota Jazz Lounge EEEEEEEE!!!!!
* 11 Dec: Denver, CO – Soiled Dove
13 Dec: Albuquerque, NM – Outpost
* 14 Dec: Salt Lake City, UT – The State Room

Her website has been redesigned and it looks lovely. Have a look [here]

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Came across this today for my European friends…

The PR says,
“She had some frequent flyer miles to use, so Aimee is coming back to Europe this fall, including Germany, Portugal and the UK, with a few more dates still to be added (keep your fingers crossed Luxembourg!)”

11/7/13 Cassa da Musica Porto Portugal
11/8/13 Aula Magna Lisbon Portugal
11/11/13 Capitol Manheim Germany
11/12/13 Lukaskirche Dresden Germany
11/14/13 Christuskirche Bochum Germany
11/17/13 Union Chapel London UK

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Album Name: Papermaps
Artist: Papermaps
Year/Label: 2013 / Sparks

[Buy at Amazon]
[Download at Amazon]

Review by Anna Maria Stjärnell

Papermaps used to be known as Ex-Po and their new name reflects a sound that’s as fresh as can be.

Opener Angela is a glorious pop song with an urgent delivery by singer Dean Marino.

Can’t make a Living is a song sung in a powerpop style that the band pull off well.

Exit is an energetic, punky song that has a real sense of edginess to it. Marino’s vocal is tense throughout.

You are my Gallows ends the album on a god note, Marino and co playing a soft yet intense song in a good way.

It’s a great album all told.

Track Listing
1. Angela
2. Reunion
3. Can’t Make A Living
4. Forever
5. Complicate Things
6. Exit
7. Coddled
8. You Glided Down
9. Wishful Thinker
10. You Are My Gallows

[Papermaps Official Site]

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I know I’ve been absent lately, but this came across my desk today. I knew Robyn Hitchcock had a new album coming out (I just downloaded it yesterday) and I’ve been looking forward to it. I also am going to see him on Friday at The Current’s Wits series.

But it appears that Robyn Hitchcock has done a cover of Nick Drake’s “Parasite”.

Where Nick’s original was all acoustic, Robyn’s arrangement features a full orchestra – he says he was drawn to the song’s “detachment and paranoia.”

The song comes off the Joe Boyd-produced ‘Way To Blue’ tribute album out April 6, 2013.

Now I can share this with you…

Another voice I love is doing a song on it too, Lisa Hannigan. Hear it here at [NPR]

Here’s the tracklist

‘Way To Blue: The Songs of Nick Drake’

01. Luluc – “Things Behind the Sun”
02. Scott Matthews – “Place to Be”
03. Green Gartside – “Fruit Tree”
04. Shane Nicholson – “Poor Boy”
05. Krystle Warren – “Time Has Told Me”
06. Robyn Hitchcock – “Parasite”
07. Danny Thompson & Zoe Rahman – “One of These Things First” (instrumental)
08. Vashti Bunyan – “Which Will”
09. Lisa Hannigan – “Black Eyed Dog”
10. Shane Nicholson – “Rider on the Wheel”
11. Teddy Thompson – “River Man”
12. Luluc & Lisa Hannigan – “Saturday Sun”
13. Scott Matthews – “When the Day Is Done”
14. Luluc – “Fly”
15. Teddy Thompson & Krystle Warren – “Pink Moon”

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Two of my favorite things…shelter pets and cute boys who play sweet music.

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I just saw that Sarah Blasko has a new album out!!
It’s not really released in the US yet so it costs a ftorune, but if you want it, [Go to Amazon]

(note: if you have Adblock you won’t see the link to buy below)

She’s also embarking on a European Tour
Tuesday 9 April
Babylon – Istanbul, TURKEY
Buy tickets

Wednesday 10 April
Babylon – Istanbul, TURKEY
Buy tickets

Thursday 11 April
Barbican – London, UNITED KINGDOM
Buy tickets

Friday 12 April
The AB Club – Brussels, BELGIUM
Buy tickets

Saturday 13 April
De Roma – Antwerp, BELGIUM
Buy tickets

Sunday 14 April
Paradiso – Amsterdam, NETHERLANDS
Buy tickets

Tuesday 16 April
Cafe De La Danse – Paris, FRANCE
Buy tickets

Wednesday 17 April
Stadtgarten – Cologne, GERMANY
Buy tickets

Thursday 18 April
Stage Club – Hamburg, GERMANY
Buy tickets

Friday 19 April
Frannz Club – Berlin, GERMANY
Buy tickets

Saturday 20 April
Bix Jazzclub – Stuttgart, GERMANY
Buy tickets

Tuesday 23 April
Papiersaal – Zurich, SWITZERLAND
Buy tickets

Thursday 25 April
Hybrydy – Warsaw, POLAND
Buy tickets

and Australia
Monday 4 February
Wrest Point Casino – Hobart, TAS
Buy tickets

Saturday 9 February
QPAC – Brisbane, QLD
Buy tickets

Thursday 14 February
Hamer Hall – Melbourne, VIC
Buy tickets

Sunday 17 February
Sydney Opera House – Sydney, NSW
Buy tickets

Monday 18 February
Sydney Opera House – Sydney, NSW
Buy tickets

Saturday 23 February
Kings Park – Perth, WA
Buy tickets

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Album Name: Grinmace
Artist: Peter Lacey
Year/Label: 2012 / Pink Hedgehog Records
[Download at Amazon]

Review by Anna Maria Stjärnell

Peter Lacey has made a new ep that sounds summery despite the season.

‘In a Golden State of Mind’ is a Beach Boys-like pop tune with some cool harmonies.

“The Time of Our Life” is a happy and fragile song with a memorable melody that Lacey handles well.

“Paradise Cove” closes the ep on a good note, a song of an elderly couple in their retirement home. It sounds sunny despite its theme.

It’s another nice record by Lacey.

Track Listing
1. In a Golden State of Mind
2. Heyday
3. Slump
4. Closing Time
5. The Time of Our Life
6. Our Light
7. Paradise Cove

[Pink Hedgehog Official Site]

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Album Name: Sensual Journeys
Artist: Fiona Joy Hawkins
Year/Label: 2012 / Little Harley Music

[Buy at Amazon]
[Download at Amazon]
[Fiona Joy Hawkins Official Site]

Review by Anna Maria Stjärnell

Pianist Fiona Joy Hawkins has made several nice albums and this new effort is an equally fine effort.

Opener Contemplating is a nice, slow meander with whispered words and a lovely melody.

Flight of the Snowbird sees Hawkins at her most expressive at the piano, and it has a dreamy quality that’s a joy to hear.

Frozen Rose is an intriguing song with a cinematic feel that works really well.

Moving On has vocals in Gaelic by Heather Rankin and it’s a comforting song with a great piano line.

It’s another great album by Fiona Joy Hawkins.

Track Listing
1. Contemplating
2. Joy
3. Flight Of The Snowbird
4. Gliding On Air
5. From The Outside
6. Song Phonique
7. Frozen Rose
8. The Midnight Interlude
9. Moving On
10. White View
11. View From My Studio

[Fiona Joy Hawkins Official Site]

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Hi there,

Some of you may remember that I reviewed Andrea Perry’s album, River of Stars back in 2006 (oh man, does time ever fly!). It was on my Best Of… list for that year. I loved that album, still do. [refresh your memory].

Well, she’s getting ready to record a new album and I thought you might want to help!

[Donate to Andrew Perry's new record]

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This band’s press release showed up in my inbox, I took a listen and I really liked it. So I thought you might too.

“Playboy School takes no sides, incorporating the danceability of the beloved Friday night DJ set with showmanship that inspires nostalgia for a rock and roll era long past.

With the contributions of some of the region’s most noteworthy musicians, this electronic rock duo (Liani Moore and Mackenzie Knoester) has crafted a set of songs that is both heartfelt in content, and ass-moving in form.

A classically trained multi-instrumentalist, Moore lends a discerning ear for arrangement, coupled with an on-stage charisma that could power a small city. Knoester’s contribution to Playboy School as utility-man and drummer represents an unexpected departure from her modus operandi in regionally-acclaimed all-girl hard rock outfit, Aroarah.

Playboy School is taking its freshest recordings on the road, with recent appearances at such noteworthy venues as Ace of Spades (Sacramento), the Uptown (Oakland), the Roxy (Hollywood), and San Francisco and LA Gay Prides.”

Check out Playboy School’s latest release Chasing Rainbows:
[Chasing Rainbows] (free download)
[Playboy School]
[Twitter]

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Here’s a video for your listening and viewing pleasure! I love the retro look and sound of this.
When she sent this to me, she was excited have had 43k views. when I first looked it was over 160K! So obviously I am not the only one who likes it!

You can get the single (mp3) on [Amazon]

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Another new one for me (she’s been around awhile, how did I not know this?)

photo by Amanda Longtain

Her album Leelanau will be out October 10th, 2012 (which is my birthday!)

I’ve been allowed to share the single from the album, it’s called “Lake Charlevoix” …enjoy!
[on SoundCloud]

Check out her page [on tumblr] for more songs and more info.

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I love it when I have slow work days and can catch up on Collected Sounds stuff. Man, I wish I could do this full time…*sigh*

Here’s another new discovery: The band is called Hidden Orchestra. This is just beautiful stuff. I really really dig it. Mesmerizing….I hope you enjoy it.

The new album, Archipelago comes out October 1, you can pre-order it here:
[on Amazon]

They have two songs up on SoundCloud for your listening pleasure.
[Vorka]
[Spoken]

Or check out the video below.

More on them:
[Official Site]

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There’s something about this voice that grabs me. Plus he dances cute.

Listen at [SoundCloud]

Press release:

Rising London quintet Years & Years are set to release their irresistible debut single “I Wish I Knew” on September 24th through the Good Bait imprint.

Intricately weaving a patchwork of laptop rhythms, razor sharp guitar riffs and deep sub-bass, Years & Years have created their own distinctive brand of danceable, folk tinged electro-pop.

Their debut single “I Wish I Knew” showcases Years & Years ability to cleverly juxtapose warm organic instrumentation with electronic elements, to produce innovative and intelligent sing-a-long pop. Accompanied by slower and sweeping B-side “The Whale”, this first taste of Years & Years offers a perfect introduction to this new and exciting band.

Throwing out the rulebook, the band describe their open-minded approach to songwriting, guitarist Emre explains “Someone will come in with a concept or an idea and then we basically bash the living shit out of it until we have something great.”

Their formation was also somewhat unorthodox with two of the members, Noel and Mikey, meeting at a protest against Heathrow airport’s expansion in 2010. Emre and Olivier soon followed, joining the band after answering an advert online. However the group still lacked a singer. It was by chance that Mikey found lead vocalist Olly; “I was round a friend’s house where Olly was renting a room, heard him singing in the shower and thought, “Yeah, he’s got a good voice.”

Already counting BBC 6 Music’s Lauren Laverne as an admirer, Years & Years look set to continue attracting fans with the stunning release of “I Wish I Knew”.

[Years & Years] official.

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Here’s another one that came to me recently that I liked. They remind me of the band fun.

Recent Hopeless Records signees, For The Foxes have been delivering their own unique brand of pop rock ever since their inception in 2007. Embracing elements from the eighties as well as modern artists, the Jersey natives have been making waves touring the country and releasing songs prefacing the release of their Hopeless Records debut released April of 2012.

Here’s their official site [The Foxes]

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I’ve been going through my emails (a bit overwhelming, I must say) and I found some gems. I’ll be posting them in the coming days…

Here’s today’s:
The band is called Cats Park.

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photo by Rory White

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I had a spare moment this morning and hopped on to Reddit. There was a post from someone in Michigan who “accidentally” became a DJ and was looking for submissions. So a bunch of bands responded. I clicked on a few and gave a listen to some and this one really stood out to me.
He’s called Max Min and he’s from Austria.

Here’s the [Reddit post]

and here’s the [artist's SoundCloud page] for free listens (and downloads!)

For more info check out the website, [HelloMaxMin]

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Hi kids
I announced this on Facebook already, but Ben Arthur will be returning to Collected Sounds living room stage, and we couldn’t be more excited! October 19, 2012. (there’s an error on the Paste list, the Minneapolis and Shoreview concerts are taking place as one, at our place). Start time 8pm. $15 suggested donation.

Anyway, he’s released his new video and you can see it [at Paste Magazine]

If you’d like to come to the show, please [email me]
or [rsvp on Facebook].

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As some of you might remember, Anne Heaton played a house concert at Collected Sounds awhile ago. ([OMG it was in 2004, how time flies...]
Well, I’m excited to let you know that she’s got a new album coming out next month. It’s called Honeycomb and you can preorder it here:

[Pre-Order physical copy]
[Get the MP3 version here]
Press Release:
ANNE HEATON TO RELEASE HONEYCOMB ON OCTOBER 16th

“…her most eccentric work yet.”
– Boston Phoenix

Chicago-based singer-songwriter Anne Heaton is set to release her fourth album, Honeycomb, on October 16, 2012, via her own Spill Records label. Produced by Heaton, Gary Maurer (Hem) and Mike Denneen (Howie Day, Aimee Mann), the album features 12 songs and is organized into two moods – euphoric and meditative – with a uniting theme of impermanence linking them together. Two of the songs are musical adaptations of poems by 13th-century mystic Rumi; one is an adaptation of the Catholic “Saint Francis Prayer;” a field-recording of a conversation with her father makes an appearance, as does a cover of Coldplay’s “Viva La Vida.” Fans voted to select Honeycomb as the album title.

“The first part you can really sing out loud to while you dance around the house,” Heaton explains. “The second part is music you can let wash over you while you lay down. But the ideas and feelings expressed are very connected—the theme of being present reigns throughout. The album is a pilgrimage toward, and a celebration of, letting go.”

Honeycomb is innovatively packaged with artwork by graphic artist Brian Grunert that vibrantly evokes the spirit in each of the 12 songs; each song gets its own glossy artwork card which can be slotted into the cover position based on the listener’s preference. “These songs are like colorful landscapes, full of detail, and the images are a singular point of focus—one cell of the song to stand for the whole,” says Heaton. “It’s kind of like in the book ‘Good Night Moon.’ You go from the colorful scene of the whole bedroom and all the items in there, to the next page, where it’s just an image of a brush on a table.”

Heaton’s gracefully vulnerable piano-based music has amassed awards, praise from critics, fellow artists, and fans. The Washington Post calls her songs “tender, barbed, and spiritual.” The Boston Globe describes her music as “lush, introspective, and elegant.” Paste calls her work “stunning.”

Heaton has toured nationally, played the Sundance Film Festival, Lilith Fair, and has been a featured artist on the New York Times Music Podcast. Heaton has also played numerous times on NPR. In 2005, she won Soul City Cafe, a national competition of live performances and online voting to choose Jewel’s opener for her West Coast Tour. In addition to Jewel’s tour, Heaton has also shared the stage with Sarah McLachlan, Winterbloom, Melissa Ferrick, Hem, Chris Trapper, Jill Sobule, The Pernice Brothers, Jennifer Kimball, and Jonatha Brooke. In a live review, the Seattle Times gushed Heaton was “a natural performer [with] a rich, soaring voice.” Tour dates are planned in support of Honeycomb (the tour kicked off with an album preview show at Club Passim in Boston last week), and Heaton will be touring in December for a series of holiday shows with the Winterbloom collective (which also features Antje Duvekot, Meg Hutchinson, and Natalia Zuckerman). (See tour schedule below; more dates will be confirmed.)

***A portion of all proceeds from Anne’s tour this Fall will be donated to Fundación Niños de los Andes, a non-profit organization dedicated to the rescue, protection and rehabilitation of street children in Bogota, Colombia (and other towns throughout the country). Anne met many of these street children in 2008 when she visited the Fundación and had an opportunity to hear their stories and learn about their lives. To create awareness, Anne turned some of these stories into songs. (This project is coming in 2014.) This organization remains close to Anne’s heart, and she wants the children to know she cares about them by donating to the organization. Fundación Niños de los Andes helps children, who have lived in violent and insecure conditions, to recuperate psychologically, physically and spiritually, and to reintegrate into society. Learn more at http://ninandes.org/***

ANNE HEATON TOUR SCHEDULE:
9/15 – Chatham, NJ / The Sanctuary Concert Series
10/3 – New York, NY / Rockwood Music Hall
10/4 – Vienna, VA / Jammin Java (w/Peter Mulvey)
10/6 – Franklin, MA / Circle of Friends Coffeehouse (w/Antje Duvekot)
10/12 – Old Saybrook, CT / Katharine Hepburn Theater
10/20 – Milwaukee, WI / Millions For Music Concert Series
11/1 – Evanston, IL / SPACE
11/6 – Indianapolis, IN / Irving Theater (w/Natalia Zuckerman)
11/8 – 11/11 – Harbor Springs, MI / LAMB’s Retreat Songwriter’s Workshop
11/30 – Ann Arbor, MI / The Ark (Winterbloom show)
12/1 – Chicago, IL / WFMT Folkstage Midnight Special (Winterbloom show)
12/2 – Chicago, IL / Old Town School of Folk Music (Winterbloom show)
12/7 – Ann Arbor, MI / The Ark (w/Melissa Ferrick)
12/13 – Portland, ME / One Longfellow Square (Winterbloom show)
12/14 – Boston, MA / The Oberon at The A.R.T. (Winterbloom show)
12/15 – Franklin, MA / Circle of Friends (Winterbloom show)
12/16 – Stonybrook, NY / SUNY Univ Cafe Acoustic Series (Winterbloom show)
12/21 – Vienna, VA / Jammin Java (Winterbloom show)
12/22 – Phoenixville, PA / Steel City Coffeehouse (Winterbloom show)
12/23 – New York, NY / Union Hall (Winterbloom show)

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Hi kids!
Because of my post about Karoline Hausted last month, I got an email from another Danish musician named Ida Gard.
I took a listen/look today and she’s fantastic too!
Well, if you know my penchant for Scandinavian pop music this really should not come a shock to you.

You can watch the video here:

And she’s also offerred a free download [on Facebook]. You can listen to some other songs there as well.
I’m really enjoying this!

Here’s her [Official Page]

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This came across my “desk” today (well, I got to it today, anyway!) and I clicked on the link to the video then went about clearing out my inbox but as soon as she started singing I clicked back over to the YouTube tab and was mesmerized.

Marika Hackman

Meet Marika Hackman…

[press release]
There’s a violence to the countryside, encapsulated in the sumptuous prose of D.H Lawrence’s in which metaphors engorge and heighten into states of pure ecstasy. A fantastic and virulent strain of writing which, thanks to Marika Hackman, now exists in song. Double A-Side “You Come Down” and “Mountain Spines” produced by Johnny Flynn and Adam Beach from the Sussex Wit will be released September 3rd through Transgressive imprint paradYse (Theme Park, Cold Specks).

Marika’s music channels something very different to the happy-clappy nature of recent folk hers is a far more potent vision in the lineage of Syd Barrett, but presented by an enigmatic beauty with a striking vocal delivery more akin to that of Nico deftly exploring an unsmiling bereft landscape.

“I don’t know why I started writing; it’s something I’ve been playing around with since I was so young that I can’t remember how it began. I think living in the countryside for most of my life has affected my writing as nature usually manages to creep its way into my songs…”

With tours already in place with Benjamin Francis Leftwich, and new fans such as Zane Lowe proclaiming her his Next Hype, you can be sure that Marika Hackman will blossom into one of the most important creators and interpreters of song in our times.

Marika will be supporting Benjamin Francis Leftwich on the following dates:

OCTOBER
1st: BRIGHTON, Concorde 2
2nd: BOURNEMOUTH, Old Fire Station
3rd: EXETER, The Phoenix
4th: FALMOUTH, Princess Pavillion
5th: SWANSEA, Sin City
6th: BRISTOL, O2 Academy
8th: OXFORD, Town Hall
9th: NEWCASTLE, Northumbria University
10th: EDINBURGH, Pleasance Theatre
11th: ABERDEEN, Lemon Tree
12th: INVERNESS, Ironworks
13th: GLASGOW, Oran Mor
15th: LEEDS, City Varieties
16th: SHEFFIELD, Plug
17th: BIRMINGHAM, Irish Centre
18th: CAMBRIDGE, Junction
19th: NORWICH, Waterfront
20th: NOTTINGHAM, Rescue Rooms
22nd: CARLISLE, Brickyard
23rd: LIVERPOOL, University (Stanley Theatre)
24th: LONDON, KOKO
25th: MANCHESTER, HMV Ritz
26th: STOKE, Sugarmill
27th: YORK, Duchess
29th: WREXHAM, Central Station
31st: GALWAY, Roisin Dubh (upstairs)

NOVEMBER
1st: CORK, Cyprus Avenue
2nd: BELFAST, Oh Yeah Music Centre/Limelight (two venues)
3rd: DUBLIN, Whelan’s

The songs aren’t out until September 3 (but that’s only 6 days away!) but here’s the [Amazon Link]

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Album Name: World’s End Amateur Melodramatic Society Ball
Artist: Peter Lacey
Year/Label: 2012 / Pink Hedgehog Records
[Buy at Amazon]
[Download at Amazon]

Review by Anna Maria Stjärnell

I’ve reviewed several of Peter Lacey’s records and they’re always good. This new one has a fanciful title and some fun songs.

The title song is a stately Beatles-y reverie of times gone and times to come.

First Light is a dreamy and fluid acoustic song of the sort that Lacey does well.

Maudlin Lane is an up-tempo ditty that has some of the Fab Four’s sense for melody and whimsy.

The closing They’re Playing Our Tune is a neat way to round off another fine effort by Peter Lacey. It’s a melancholy yet hopeful song.

Track Listing
1) Worlds End Amateur Melodramatic Society Ball
2) Magic Shadow Show
3) First Light
4) Leave Well Enough Alone
5) Percy Cute
6) Maudlin Lane
7) I Didn’t Get Where I Am Today
8) Miss Daisy Hawkins
9) Lark!
10) Half Way House
11) The Last Pierrot
12) They’re Playing Our Tune

[Pink Hedgehog Records]

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Hi there,
I know it’s been awhile…so I was going through my Collected Sounds email (talk about overwhelming) and I found this gem!!

I reviewed Karoline Hausted back in 2009 and really enjoyed it. Now she’s got a new album out. It is an album of songs written in Danish.

She’s allowed me to share with you, her song Tiffany:

It’s lovely, I hope you enjoy it too!

If so, buy it!

On Amazon: Jeg Tror Jeg Drømmer

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Album Name: Unchartered Territory
Artist: Michele Ari
Year/Label: 2012 / Independent

[Buy at artist's site]

Review by Anna Maria Stjärnell

After two previous eps, Michele Ari returns with an equally deft new effort. She plays emotionally charged rock and with great élan here.

Opener Wounded Man has a great central riff, and a gorgeous mood to boot.

The title song is a rockin’ tune with a great melody. Ari’s vocal is wonderfully deft. She resembles Debbie Harry here and that’s always cool.

Live Without This is a sensitive ballad that brings out her softer side well. She sings of lost love with a great deal of empathy and insight.

Too soon the closer Real comes along. It’s an electrically charged powerful number that leaves you wanting more.

It’s an ep that makes the listener aware of just how gifted Michele Ari is. And this stuff is catchy enough to be on the radio, though has enough edge to be taken seriously.

Track Listing
1. Wounded Man
2. Unchartered Territory
3. Little Wars
4. Live without this
5. Real

[Michele Ari Official Site]

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Album Name: We Are Not the Same
Artist: Lux
Year/Label: 2012 / Independent
[Buy (used) at Amazon]
[Download at Amazon]

Review by Anna Maria Stjärnell

David Chandler and Leah Rosen are Lux and this is their debut album. It’s a pretty mixed bag of styles, but it all holds together well.

Coroner’s Office is a synthy and poppy song where Chandler sounds suitably laconic.

The Window sees Rosen on vocals with a sweet tone and a catchy very eighties backing. It’s a perfectly summery song and it might endear itself to the listener by that fact alone.

Cerebellar Ataxia is a haunting moment that sees the duo making some very filmic music. It sounds like a sci-fi soundtrack with swirling synths and moody tones.

I’ll Try to Ignore the Fact That You Are Drowning is a harder-edged track that sees Chandler assume a more energized tone and it suits him well.

It’s a remarkable album all told.

Track Listing
1. Coroner’s Office
2. Out Of Love
3. The Window
4. Valerie, They’ll Never Understand
5. Little Cripple
6. X 3
7. Cerebellar Ataxia
8. Candy Lux
9. Cachexia
10. A Study In Apathy (Drugs, Etc)
11. 1000 Airwaves
12 I’ll Try To Ignore The Fact That You’re Drowning
13 Blackout

[Lux Official Site]

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I’ve been a fan of Tina Malia’s music since her first release., Shores of Avalon, was sent to me in the very early days of Collected Sounds. You can see [my review here]

She has a new album coming out this summer (2012) and I can’t wait to hear it. In the meantime, she’s released her first music video called “The Lost Frontier”

It amazes me that she hadn’t done other videos because her music lends itself so to imagery.

Enjoy!

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This recently came across my desk and I like their sound. I thought you might as well.

Scottish four-piece, Tango In The Attic have just released the video for their new single “Mona Lisa Overdrive”

[Download your copy of the single]

Press Release:
“Mona Lisa Overdrive” is Tango in the Attic’s second single from their forthcoming album “Sellotape” (released May 28th). The single will be released along with an accompanying video.

Like previous single “Pawprints”, it’s noisier than anything from the first album using roomy reverbs and garage guitars. Whilst it is deliberately understated, Mona Lisa Overdrive maintains the pop qualities of previous endeavors opting for simplicity in song structure.

The accompanying video documents the band’s recent tour of America during which they played a large number of shows at SXSW. The video is a similarly understated affair with the band maintaining a degree of anonymity for a large part of the song.

The bands previous single “Pawprints” was released in March this year whilst a live version of the track “Swimming Pool” was also recently released as a taster of what to expect from Sellotape. Both videos were picked up on NME, MUZU, Clash, Artrocker and “Swimming pool” made Spinner’s Video of the Day.

Jordan Craig (vocals / guitar), Jonathan McFarlane (guitar), James Crook (bass) and Paul Johnson (drums), all from Glenrothes, formed Tango in the Attic in 2008. After the release of Bank Place Locomotive Society (2010), the band took time out to pursue other projects, coming back together in October 2011 to record their second album. Their debut received brilliant support from the likes of NYLON magazine, Artrocker, The Line of Best Fit and The Skinny with their singles receiving plays on BBC 6Music, Absolute Radio and BBC Radio 1 Scotland.

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Album Name: Stratospherical
Artist: Black Fortress of Opium
Year/Label: 2012 / Independent

[Download at Amazon]
[Buy at Bandcamp]

Review by Anna Maria Stjärnell

Black Fortress of Opium follows an impressive debut with an equally deft sophomore album. Ajda Snyder is an impassioned frontwoman, then as now.

Afyonkarahisar Battle Cry hails back to the bands’ name, which is from a Turkish town. Brian Viglione from Dresden Dolls plays drums here and on the rest of the album impressively. The song’s anthemic nature recalls Velvet Underground at its finest and adds other influences skillfully.

Fata Morgana is a dreamy song with a gorgeous vocal by Snyder, and a melody to cherish.

Right Around Here is a poppy moment, with an instantly memorable tune. Snyder’s vocals hide a dark tale.

Get the Timing is a soft acoustic husht hat brings out the best in Ajda’s voice.

This album has a variety of styles, and it all works together as an impressively cohesive work.

Track Listing
1 Blood Diamond 4:15
2 Afyonkarahisar Battle Cry 4:58
3 Blind 5:35
4 Fata Morgana 5:14
5 Regret & Rue 5:24
6 Right Around Here 4:53
7 Unraveling 3:05
8 Southern Hymnal 3:06
9 Cherry Blossom 4:14
10 Get The Timing 4:38
11 This Dark Cloud 7:32

[Black Fortress of Opium Official Site]

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So these guys came across my desk recently and I listened to the song Young Guns and it’s really great! Check them out!
They’re coming to Minneapolis next month (I can’t go, but I hope you can!)

They have an EP coming out called “Spray Tan” and I’ll try and let you know when it’s available.

Listen to their new song, Young Guns [on Soundcloud]

For more info please visit:
[thestaticjacks.com]

US Tour Dates with The Wombats
Apr 23 9:30 Club Washington, DC
Apr 24 Middle East Boston, MA
Apr 26 Webster Hall New York, NY
Apr 27 STAGE AE Pittsburgh, PA
Apr 28 A&R Music Bar Columbus, OH
Apr 30 Park West Chicago, IL
May 01 Fine Line Music Cafe Minneapolis, MN
May 02 Beaumont Club Kansas City, MO
May 04 The Black Sheep Colorado Springs, CO
May 05 Kilby Court Salt Lake City, UT
May 07 Great American Music Hall San Francisco, CA
May 08 El Rey Theatre Los Angeles, CA
May 09 The Casbah San Diego, CA

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Album Name: Teasing Nature
Artist: Eatliz
Year/Label: 2012 / Anova
[Buy from their site]
[Buy at Amazon]
[Artist page on CDBaby (album not there yet)]

Review by Anna Maria Stjärnell

Israel’s Eatliz is an innovative rock band fronted by the excellent singer Lee Triffon.

Your House is a stunning song with some impressive guitar parts. Triffon’s vocals are lovely here.

Berlin is a turbulent ride, Triffon’s vocals carried along by Red Hot Chili Peppers-like riffing to great effect.

Lose This Child is a touching ballad that the band handles well. Triffon’s vocal is gorgeously evocative.

Mystical Lady closes the album on a good note, the group playing a boisterous tune with a catchy melody.

It’s a fascinating album worthy of exploration.

Track Listing

1, Your House
2. Zoo
3. Berlin
4. O.K
5. Falling Up
6. Got It
7. Lose This Child
8. Nine
9. Voice Over
10. Goldie
11. Tears
12. Mystical Lady

[Eatliz Official Site]

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Album Name: On a Shingle Near Yapton
Artist: David Francis
Year/Label: 2011 / Monochrome Museum

Review by Anna Maria Stjärnell

I’ve reviewed David Francis in the past, and his new album is a strong effort. He has a singular style and a way with words.

Dream London is a fittingly dreamy effort, Francis’ vocal supported by guitar and strings.

Song of the Earth is a sensitive, eco-friendly song that Francis and his collaborator John Mono handle well.

Shores of Inhumanity has surreal yet believable lyrics about man’s inhumanity and a tune that’s memorable.

Anthem for Green England closes the album on a good note, Francis painting a picture of a world desired.

It’s a good record and then some.

Track Listing
1. You’ve Come To See Me
2. Dream London
3. Warming Up
4. Song of the Earth
5. Execution of a Spy
6. Shores of Inhumanity
7. Nobody
8. The Girl Got On
9. Need You
10. Anthem for Green England (Feat. The Global Village)

[David Francis Official Site]

v

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Album Name: Worship
Artist: Ane Brun (Ft Jose Gonzales)
Year/Label: 2012 / Ais

In the meantime, if you want to spend some dough*, you can:
[Buy at Amazon]
(*Or get someone to give it to you as a gift, as I did!–aal)

Review by David Adair

Slow stirring acoustic waves trickle into the sombre and stern vocals of Jose Gonzales, before the sauntering Scandinavian, Ane Brun supplies some brooding clarity, ‘Worship’. Chilling, chiming percussion punctuates this delving folk, gospel and low-key indie stirring sojourn. A poetic, lyrical edge makes the song mean something to those with a tender disposition:

“My heartbeats can be your silver lining; just listen to them.”

The ‘Henrik Schwarz Remix’, adds a fuzzy digital toe to contrast with the searching vocals. It gives a bit of a laboured lag to the number. Brun’s austere song-crafting is overshadowed a little by Gonzales’s presence. It is still apparent that she has depth and heart in abundance, though.

Rating: 3/5

[Ane Brun Official Site]

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Single Name: Cold
Artist: Blood Red Shoes
Year/Label: 2012 / Operative Music

[Buy here]

Review by David Adair

A Katie-Jane Garside vocal crawl creeps up behind biting guitars, thrusting percussion and the growling backing touch of Steven Ansell, ‘Cold’. It represents a step into a heavier direction for this maturing Brighton pair. The angelic Laura-Mary Carter, sings like she has been possessed by the demonically hypnotic percussion combos. Her “what did I do?” sweeter than sweet vocal touch, returns a cappella style to contrast with the gritty churn of the rest of this fresh number.

Desperation and determination walk hand in hand, as this adventurous pairing adds some bite to their growing armour. This prelude to new album ‘In Time To Voices’ (V2 26/03/12), will have their growing fan-base practising feisty dance movements in eager preparation for it.

Rating: 4/5

[Blood Red Shoes Official Site]

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(but she’s not coming here *sadface*)

Sarah McLachlan is teaming up with [Tickets-for-Charity.com®] to offer fans access to fantastic seats and a special meet & greet opportunity to benefit the Sarah McLachlan School of Music and its mission to bring music education to young people through free music programs dedicated to inspiring confidence, creativity and a sense of community among students. These VIP Charity Packages will be available exclusively at www.ticketsforcharity.com.

6/22 – Toronto ON – Moslon Canadian Amphitheatre

6/23 – Montreal QC – Centre de la Nature

6/24 – Shelburne, VT – The Green @ Shelburne Museum

6/26 – Canandaigua, NY – Constellation Brands Marvin Sands PAC

6/27 – Toledo, OH – Zoo Amphitheatre

6/28 – Nashville, TN – Schermerhorn Symphony Center

7/1 – Rochester Hills, MI – Meadow Brook

7/3 – Atlanta, GA – Chastain Park Amphitheatre

7/5 – Columbia, MD – Merriweather Post Pavilion

7/6 – Boston, MA – Bank of America Pavilion

7/7 – Mashantucket, CT – MGM Grand Theater @ Foxwoods

7/8 – Atlantic City, NJ – Borgata Event Center

For ticket information, including on sale dates and times for each show, please visit [www.sarahmclachlan.com] .

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Album Name: Mooniture
Artist: Anna Atkinson
Year/Label: 2012 / Independent

[Buy at Amazon]
[Download at Amazon]

Review by Anna Maria Stjärnell

Anna Atkinson makes thoughtful, lovely music on this album. The opening title song is dreamy and reminds me of Sarah McLachlan early on.

Only a Fiddle is a slow yet tense song that she handles well. Her vocals are utterly gorgeous.

Lucybelle is a song that flirts with a cabaret feel, and does so well. The lyrics about daring to live a little are fun.

The closing Days like Cinnamon is a fitting way to end the album. The piano ballad has scope and range, and the vocals are lovely.

It’s a fabulous album all told.

Track Listing
1. Mooniture
2. Old Man Song
3. Only a Fiddle
4. Careful, My Dear
5. E Minor Waltz
6. Lucybelle
7. Hushabye
8. Intermission
9. All We Have to Do
10. Days Like Cinnamon

Anna Atkinson Official Site]

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Album Name: ‘Dougou Bada (Feat. Santi Gold)
Artist: Amadou & Mariam
Year/Label: 2012 / Because Music

Amadou & Mariam Store

Review by David Adair

A lost and lonesome acoustic trickle flows into a churning guitar grind paves the way for expressive, tribal vocals provided with equal measures of clarity, desperation and drama by Santi. They wrap around the instrumentals that builds in a thunderous percussion twist, ‘Dougou Badia’. A rich and well textured song is well conjured up, equalling the adventure and demonstrative tendencies of Nitin Sawhney, but outdoing him on the boldness of the rhythmic slant.

‘Dougou Badia Ft. Santi Gold (Kennie Takahashi Alternative Mix) ’, tones down the expressive vocals in order to give more emphasis to the rhythmically clattering, ambient percussive drive. Amadou & Mariam continues to show the rousing, dramatic potential of world music.

Rating: 3.5/5

Their [website] is just a video right now, but check it out.

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You all saw Lex Land on The Voice last night right?

I just knew Blake would like her! I’m just a little worried that he has so many good quirky girls that she might have trouble getting past them all. I dunno. She’s fabulous and I hope she goes very far in this competition. She deserves is.

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So Katie Herzig is going on tour, I told you that yesterday. But touring with her is this guy, Andy Davis. I had not heard of him before, but now I really want to see the show when it comes to Minneapolis. He’s hilarious.

Check out this video

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I posted about Debbie Miller [a little while back] and now I’m able to share a free download with you.

Inch By Inch is the debut single from her upcoming sophomore effort, Measures & Waits; which will be out March 27th (I know I’m looking forward to it!)

Head on over to [her Bandcamp page] to read more about it and downlaod the song.

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Katie Herzig is going on tour with a full band! I saw her on Cayamo a few years back and she was fantastic. One of my favorite artists of the whole cruise.

And also her album, is on sale for $5 at Amazon!

Tour Dates
Tour # 1

February 24, Hi Tone, Memphis, TN
February 25, Club Da Da, Dallas, TX
February 27, Stubb’s Jr., Austin, TX
February 29, Fox Theater, Boulder, CO
March 2, Wheeler Opera House, Aspen, CO
March 5, The Record Bar, Kansas City, MO
March 6, Maintenance Shop, Ames, IA
March 7, The Varsity Theater, Minneapolis, MN YAY!!
March 8, S.P.A.C.E., Evanston, IL
March 9, Radio Radio, Indianapolis, IN
March 10, Beachland Ballroom, Cleveland, OH
March 12, Drake Hotel, Toronto, Ontario, CANADA
March 14, Iron Horse Music Hall, Northhampton, MA
March 15, Tupelo Music Hall, Londonderry, NH
March 16, Empire Dine & Dance, Portland, ME
March 17, Higher Ground Showcase, S. Burlington, VT
March 18, Fete, Providence, RI
March 21, Fairfield Theatre – Stage One, Fairfield, CT
March 22, Highline Ballroom, New York, NY
March 23, Baltimore Soundstage, Baltimore, MD
March 24, The Red Palace, Washington, DC
March 30, 3rd & Lindsley, Nashville, TN

Tour #2

April 25, Juanita’s Cantina Ballroom, Little Rock, AR
April 27, McDavid Studio, Ft. Worth, TX
April 29, Crescent Ballroom, Phoenix, AZ
May 1, The Troubador, West Hollywood, CA
May 3, The Independent, San Francisco, CA
May 6, The Aladdin Theater, Portland, OR
May 9, Crocodile Cafe, Seattle, WA
May 10, A Club Spokane, Spokane, WA
May 11, Knitting Factory Concert House, Boise, ID
May 12, The State Room, Salt Lake City, UT
May 15, Everday Joe’s, Fort Collins, CO
May 16, The Bluebird Theater, Denver, CO
May 18, The Old Rock House, St. Louis, MO
May 19, Headliners Music Hall, Louisville, KY

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MARCH 27-APRIL 1, 2012, THE 7TH ANNUAL FESTIVAL INCLUDES LITERARY AND CULINARY EVENTS, AS WELL AS COMEDIANS DAVID CROSS, JON BENJAMIN, JON GLASER AND MORE

Tuesday, February 7, 2012- Iowa City, IA – The seventh annual Mission Creek Festival returns March 27-April 1, 2012. Mission Creek Festival is a weeklong experience that takes over the venues and spaces of downtown Iowa City–creating an easily navigated nexus of music, literature, food and art. As with past festivals, the upcoming event will feature a strong balance of national, international and regional musicians, writers and artists performing and exhibiting their work in downtown venues like the Englert Theatre, the Mill, Blue Moose Tap House, Public Space One, Java House, Gabe’s, the Yacht Club, Prairie Lights and many other traditional and non-traditional venues. As always, writers, small presses, and literary journals from across the country will appear alongside musical acts such as The Magnetic Fields, Sharon Van Etten, The War on Drugs, Bowerbirds, Seun Kuti & Egypt 80, Black Milk, Tim Hecker, William Elliott Whitmore, and many more. In addition, Mission Creek is hosting an artist-in-residency program this year during which Dirty Beaches and Wet Hair will be recording a 7″ and also during which Erase Errata will be cutting their next album in Iowa City.

The event is not just a series of concerts, readings and shows: it is a happening — a gathering that brings together artists and culture-lovers in the cozy, intimate confines of Iowa City. Every venue is within five minutes of every other venue. The largest venues rarely hold more than 750 people and sometimes the smallest hold just 50 people. Whether it’s warm or cool outside, Iowa City remains a great walking town: in between events, go eat at the diner where presidential candidates vie for the ears of caucus voters or grab a beer where folks like Raymond Carver and Kurt Vonnegut used to hang out. And then head back out to another show. Whatever you do, have a great time.

MISSION CREEK FESTIVAL LINEUP / MUSIC
The Magnetic Fields
David Cross
Seun Kuti & Egypt 80
William Elliott Whitmore
Justin Townes Earle
Black Milk
Sharon Van Etten
Tim Hecker
Rhys Chatham
Leslie & the Ly’s
The War On Drugs
Kimya Dawson
The Antlers
Dirty Beaches
Bowerbirds
Jon Benjamin
Jon Glaser
Mike Doughty
Little Scream
Oberhofer
Erase Errata
Like Pioneers
Caroline Smith & the Goodnight Sleeps
Rene Hell
Lulacruza
The Daredevil Christopher Wright
Golden Birds
The Poison Control Center
Wet Hair
Muscle Drum
Denison Witmer
Weed Wolf
Grand Tetons
Christopher the Conquered
Mumfords
The Olympics
T’Bone
The Lonelyhearts
Alexis Stevens
The Savage Young Taterbug
Ion
Kelly Hogan
Rich Rok
Super Sonic Piss
Lwa
Death Ships

MISSION CREEK FESTIVAL LINEUP: WRITERS
Luis Alberto Urrea
Amelia Gray
Michael Kimball
Robert Hass
Amber Tamblyn
Mike Doughty
Matt Hart
T Fleischmann
Robin Hemley
Michael Martone
Zach Dodson
Caroline Picard
Lindsay Hunter
Aaron Burch
Adam Novy
Roxanne Gay
Robert Stewart
Ben Furnish
Linda Rodriguez
And many more…

For more information, visit [http://missionfreak.com/]

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From her press release:

“Miller, a classically trained pianist who studied under a Julliard alumna for ten years, began her career in the Brooklyn and East Village music scenes in 2007. With song topics ranging from love to bathroom graffiti, Miller’s music oscillates flawlessly between folk-ish tunes on guitar and pounding numbers on the piano.

The anticipated follow-up to her 2010 debut album Fake Love, Measures & Waits is about the toils of measuring and waiting for love.

With quirky lyrics that teeter between honesty, seriousness and silliness, Miller — who was named “New York’s best kept secret” (ResidentMediaPundit) — has developed a reputation for her unique live shows, which are often highlighted by her propensity for error. “I always mess up somehow in a live show. Whether I forget the words, screw up the music, or fall off the stage — true story.” These “Debbie Do-overs” have become fan favorites. “I think it’s because people respond to authenticity and honesty in art and performance,” she said.

After moving cross-country to Seattle in 2010, Miller immersed herself in the legendary music scene and has been quickly embraced by West Coast audiences.

“…A highlight of the night was watching the adorable Debbie Miller take on the role of the Queen of Hearts, as she sang an unexpectedly humorous song about the joys of chopping off heads wherever she goes.” – City Arts Magazine

Miller has performed at The Living Room, Rockwood Music Hall (Stage 1 and Stage 2), Bar 4 and Café Vivaldi in New York City. In Seattle she’s graced the stages of the Fremont Abbey, Conor Byrne Pub, and JewelBox Theater at the Rendezvous, and will celebrate the release of Measures & Waits at Columbia City Theater this spring.”

I have heard some of this and so far, I love it! I think you will too!

Connect:
[www.thedebbiemiller.com]
[facebook]
[twitter]

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Recently Anna Maria reviewed Allison’s Invention’s new album, [Sweet and Vicious].

Now Allison is offering a free download of the title track for the month of February via [Allison's Invention's Facebook page]. As an extra gift, those interested in downloading the rest of the record can do so at the discounted price of $3.00, also throughout the month of February.

I recommend this, I have this EP too and it’s really great!!

“Allison’s Invention is a music project by singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Allison Tartalia. Tartalia’s quirky and eclectic songs, performed on piano, ukulele and kalimba, have made her a popular performer at New York venues like Mercury Lounge, the Living Room and Joe’s Pub. The Emmy-nominated composer, who has shared a stage with the likes of Lelia Broussard, Petra Haden, Rachael Sage and Fred Armisen, will tour the Midwest this April and will perform select dates in the Northeast as part of the Joni Mitchell’s Blue: A 40th Anniversary Celebration.”

For more info:
[Web Site]
[Facebook]
[Bandcamp]

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Passing Mt. Satu is set for a US release on March 13th, 2012.

From the press release:
“Passing Mt. Satu, Solander’s new album, was recorded and mixed in the compact darkness of Swedish winter by Emil Isaksson at Studio Möllan in Malmö and released by the influential Swedish label A Tenderversion Recording.
“It is the result of a collective creative process with the songs reflecting our ever on-going travelling through a world of magical mountains, deep woods and golden fields.” says Solander.”

Check out the song, The Garden [on Sound Cloud] (you can download it there too)

Here’s a video too:

Solander – Flight from A Tenderversion Recording on Vimeo.

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Sea Of Bees is set to release her sophomore album, Orangefarben, on May 1st on Team Love Records in the U.S.

To share the news, Julie Ann Bee is offering up as a free download. “Live At The Hangar – 5.3.11″ captures an intimate night in Sacramento, CA when Jules and her pals celebrated the success of Songs For The Ravens with a special, invite-only live performance in the same studio where she crafted that breakthrough album.

In each song, you can hear the kind of musical growth that only comes from playing them night after night in front of audiences around the world. The EP closes with the haunting, yet rarely performed live, “It Won’t Be Long” which features Jules playing one of Neil Young’s old antique pump organs that she used on the studio version.

[check it out]

Tour Dates:
02.02.12 – New York, NY @ Cake Shop
02.03.12 – New York, NY @ The Living Room
02.04.12 – Brooklyn, NY @ Sycamore
02.05.12 – New York, NY @ Joes Pub
02.06.12 – New York, NY @ Bowery Ballroom w/ Gotye
02.07.12 – New York, NY @ Rockwood Music Hall
02.08.12 – New York, NY @ Mercury Lounge
02.09.12 – New York, NY @ Piano’s
02.10.12 – New York, NY @ The Living Room
02.21.12 – Davis, CA @ Odd Fellows Hall w/ Jolie Holland
02.24.12 – San Francicsco, CA @ Noise Pop at the Independent w/ Wye Oak

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Album Name: Heart Like Feathers
Artist: Robert Deeble
Year/Label: 2012 / Mind Bomb Publishing/ Dead Letter Records
This album is not out but can be pre-ordered from site. Check the links below too, might be available there in time.

[Buy at Amazon]
[Download at Amazon]
[Buy at his site]

Review by Anna Maria Stjärnell

Robert Deeble returns after a lengthy absence with a new record. His style is folksy and very appealing.

The opening title song has a gorgeous hushed sound, Deeble’s vocals softly murmuring in the wake of a memorable tune.

Undertow features Anna-Lynne Williams of Trespassers William and she gives a typically lovely vocal performance that becomes a good counterpoint to Deeble’s dreamy delivery.

Exhale is a dirge-like song that he easily inhabits, giving a thoughtful performance to a sweet melody.

Hearing voices, seeing ghosts is a haunting track with a lovely tune that he handles well.

It’s a gorgeous album well worth hearing.

Track Listing

01. Heart Like Feathers
02. Suzanne
03. Undertow
04. Eucharist
05. Weeds
06. Exhale
07. Hearing Voices Seeing Ghosts
08. The Colors of Dying
09. Scarecrow
10. Sunflower

Robert Deeble Official Site]

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Album Name: Sweet and Vicious
Artist: Allison’s Invention
Year/Label: 2011 / Independent

Review by Anna Maria Stjärnell

Allison Tartalia relased the album “Ready” back in 2002 and as Allison’s Invention she has just done an ep that’s emotionally sung and has great tunes to boot.

Clean is a cathartic song about facing the past and looking forward to the future.

The title song is a gorgeous piano ballad filled with uncomfortable truths about relationships. Her vocal delivery is wonderfully strong.

Ran sees her struggling with the past and present dreams, to a tune that’s powerfully built.

The closing, Just a Body, is a truly stunning closer, Tartalia dealing with her mother’s death. “It’s just a body, it isn’t her” she sings, a both comforting and sad thought. She’s moving on but the scars are clearly visible.

It’s a remarkable ep.

Track Listing

1. Clean
2. Sweet and Vicious
3. Ran
4. Pangaea
5. New Low
Just a Body

Allison’s Invention Official Site]

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The new album In The Time Of Gods is due out on April 17th, 2012.

Produced by Kevin Killen (who has worked with such giants as U2, Elvis Costello, and Peter Gabriel), and features special guests Shawn Colvin and Larry Campbell, and a remarkable set of musicians including Charley Drayton, Gerry Leonard, and Rob Hyman. Track Listing: 1) I Am The One Who Will Remember Everything, 2) This Earth, 3) I Have Been Around The World, 4) The Light And The Sea, 5) You Will Ride With Me Tonight, 6) Crystal Creek, 7) Summer Child, 8) I Will Free Myself, 9) Write This Number Down, 10) Storm King

Preview a song from the new CD – Listen to “I Am The One Who Will Remember Everything” at

1. I Am The One Who Will Remember Everything
2. This Earth
3. I Have Been Around The World
4. The Light And The Sea
5. You Will Ride With Me Tonight
6. Crystal Creek
7. Summer Child
8. I Will Free Myself
9. Write This Number Down
10. Storm King

Tour dates below:

Dar Williams Tour Dates:
1.14.12 – Levon Helm Studios: Midnight Ramble- Woodstock, NY
1.18.12 – Lincoln Center – New York City w/ Jonatha Brooke
2.9.12 – Sarah Lawrence College Auditorium – Bronxville, NY
3.23.12 – Stoughton Opera House – Stoughton, WI
3.24.12 – Sacred Heart Music Center – Duluth, MN
3.30.12 – Club Orient – Poughkeepsie, NY
3.31.12 – Charles River School – Dover, MA
4.17.2012 – Anthology – San Diego, CA
4.18.2012 – Largo – Los Angeles, CA
4.19.2012 – Freight & Salvage – Berkeley, CA
4.20.2012 – Aladdin Theater – Portland, OR
4.21.2012 – Triple Door – Seattle, WA
4.24.12 – Old Rock House – St. Louis, MO
4.26.2012 – Cedar Cultural Center – Minneapolis, MN
4.27.2012 – Space – Evanston, IL* (Two Shows)
5.11.2012 – World Cafe Live – Wilmington, DE
5.12.2012 – Ram’s Head Tavern – Annapolis, MD (Two Shows)
5.13.2012 – Jefferson Theatre – Charlottesville, VA
5.17.2012 – The Handlebar – Greenville, SC
5.18.2012 – The ArtsCenter – Carrbaro, NC
5.19.2012 – Kirk Avenue Music Hall – Roanoke, VA*
5.31.2012 – Narrows Center – Fall River, MA*
6.1.2012 – StageOne – Fairfield, CT
6.2.2012 – One Longfellow Square – Portland, ME* (Two Shows)
6.7.2012 – Infinity Hall – Norfolk, CT*
6.8.2012 – YMCA Boulton Center – Bay Shore, NY*
6.9.2012 – Bryn Mawr Gazebo – Bryn Mawr, PA
6.15.2012 – The Melting Point – Athens, GA
6.16.2012 – Eddie’s Attic – Decatur, GA* (Two Shows)

*“An Evening with Dar Williams” / No Support Act

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