Tuesday, December 29, 2015

R.I.P. John 'Brad' Bradbury of The Specials

John 'Brad' Bradbury, drummer of the Specials has died at the age of 62. Bradbury joined the Specials in 1979 and had been a member of the band throughout their various incarnations (including Special AKA and Special Beat) and Specials' reunion in 2008. The news of his death was announced via the band's official website:

"It is with deepest regret that we have to announce the very sad news that our much loved husband and father John "Brad" Bradbury passed away on Monday the 28th of December. Brad's drumming was the powerhouse behind the Specials & it was seen as a key part to the Two Tone sound.

He was much respected in the world of drumming and his style of reggae and ska was seen as genuinely ground breaking when The Specials first hit the charts in 1979. He was an integral part of The Specials reforming in 2008 and toured with them extensively up to the present day.

His contribution to the world of music can not be understated and he will much missed by family, friends and fans alike. It is the families sincerest wish that they are allowed the time to remember him privately."

This is the second member of the Specials that died in 2015 -- longtime trombone player Rico Rodriguez died in September at the age of 80.

Published December 29th, 2015 @ 8:35 PM

Lemmy, legendary Rock God has died


Rock legend Lemmy (Ian Lemmy Kilmister) died yesterday at the age of 70. According to Motorhead's official site, Kilmister died after a short battle with an extremely aggressive form of cancer. He had just turned 70 years old on December 24th.

R.I.P. Lemmy, rock & roll will never be the same!

In 1991 Lemmy recorded a brilliant tribute to the Ramones -- the Ramones loved it so much, they in turn covered Lemmy's tribute.





Published December 29th, 2015 @ 5:39 AM

Friday, December 25, 2015

Free download: Radiohead shares "Spectre"


Radiohead revealed today that they were asked to compose a theme for Spectre. Though the Bond producers rejected the lush and haunting track, opting instead for the more commercial and cheesy Sam Smith theme,  Radiohead decided to share the track with fans worldwide. If "Spectre" is any indication as to where Radiohead is at musically these days, fans are sure to be in for quite a treat when the band's new album finally gets released (rumored in 2016). Stream "Spectre" in all its elegance and beauty below and grab a free download here.

"Last year we were asked to write a theme tune for the Bond movie Spectre.
Yes we were. It didn’t work out, but became something of our own, which we love very much.
As the year closes we thought you might like to hear it.
Merry Christmas. May the force be with you."



Published December 25th, 2015 @ 7:44 PM

Wednesday, December 23, 2015

Robert Smith records new version of Cure rarity


Robert Smith re-recorded the Cure's 1985 track "A Few Hours After This" for the UK crime drama series Luther. Turns out the show's creator/screenwriter Neil Cross is a huge Cure fan and thought the obscure b-side would work as the perfect backdrop for an episode. When contacted by the show's producers, Smith agreed to record a new version, which was featured in an episode airing on the BBC this week. The re-recorded version will eventually be released on the Luther Season 4 soundtrack.

The original version "A Few Hours After This" was released as the b-side to "In Between Days" and was included on the Cure rarities compilation Join The Dots.

Stream both versions below:



ORIGINAL VERSION



Published December 23rd, 2015 @ 5:33 PM

Wednesday, December 9, 2015

Kevin Shields of MBV performs with Dinosaur Jr!


Dinosaur Jr have been celebrating the 30th anniversary of their debut, Dinosaur, with a series of shows in New York. The band promised they'd perform Dinosaur in full along and invite some "special guests" to join them.  Indeed they have delivered and then some -- over the past few shows Bob Mould, Kim Gordon, Frank Black, Don Fleming, Lee Ranaldo, Jeff Tweedy, and Kurt Vile have all showed up to perform.  Last night the elusive and brilliant Kevin Shields of My Bloody Valentine, Mike Watt, and Sharon Van Etten were all in the house!

Tonight is the final show at the Bowery...should be interesting to see who shows up tonight!

Video of Shields performing "Thorn" with Dinosaur Jr is posted below, courtesy Brooklyn Vegan.





A photo posted by wiezorek (@wiezorek) on







Wednesday, December 2, 2015

Suede premieres new single/video from 'Night Thoughts'


Suede return with the follow up to 2013's Bloodsports on January 22nd.  Night Thoughts is the band's seventh studio album and includes 12 tracks and a full string section.  Earlier this year Suede premiered the live version of "What I'm Trying To Tell You" at the NME awards, followed by the release of the single "Outsiders" in September.  Suede have now issued another new song and video for the track "Like Kids":



Night Thoughts is available to pre-order on standard CD, double heavyweight vinyl, and deluxe CD/DVD through the official Suede store. The DVD is a feature length film directed by Roger Sargent, who shared the following comments about the project:

"I was asked to pitch an idea for this film project… I really had no idea what they were wanting or expecting so I tried
 to write in the least self-conscious way possible. The record deals with a lot of familial themes — life, death, love, anguish and despair; themes that are expanded upon in its visual companion, providing a study of how those elements affect
the human psyche. It resonated with me for many reasons, not least because my mother passed away a few days after I started writing a story for the film. The film starts with a man drowning in the waters of a deserted beach at night, as he fights for life, his mind plays out the events that lead him to be there."

For more on Suede, visit the official site here

Tuesday, December 1, 2015

Ring in December with Teenage Fanclub


It's the first of December. Good time to rock out this timeless classic from Teenage Fanclub:



While you're at it, enjoy some footage of the Fannies performing at Reading 1992



Tuesday, November 24, 2015

James premiere new track "To My Surprise"


As reported last week, James is set to return with a new studio record, Girl At The End Of The World, on March 18th. Today the band debuted a song titled "To My Surprise," which should make fans even more eager to hear the full album -- the single is beautiful and enchanting.  Delve into "To My Surprise" from James below:



Girl At The End Of The World, the band's 14th studio album, was recorded and written in Scotland, and musically picks up where Le Petite Mort (2014 LP) left off. James revealed in the album's official press release:

"The songs are big but personal, abrasive but warming and after taking you on a journey and throwing you a few curve balls, ultimately uplifting"

Girl At The End Of The World is available to pre-order now on CD, LP, limited edition cassette, and as a digital download. Several bundles are also available, so take a look at all the options here.

Saturday, November 21, 2015

James announce new LP 'Girl At The End Of The World'


James announced details for a new studio record titled Girl At The End Of The World. The band revealed that its 14th studio album was recorded and written in Scotland, and musically picks up where the last album (Le Petite Mort) left off. According to the official press release:

"The songs are big but personal, abrasive but warming and after taking you on a journey and throwing you a few curve balls, ultimately uplifting"

Girl At The End Of The World will be released on March 18th, with the record's first single set to premiere November 24th. Fans can pre-order the record now on CD, LP, limited edition cassette, and as a digital download. Several bundles are also available, so take a look at all the options here.

James also announced details for a tour, however so far only a UK leg has been booked. Dates are posted below live footage of James performing "Moving On" from Le Petite Mort.



James -- 2016 UK tour

5/02 -- Bristol @ Colston Hall
5/03 -- Southend-on-Sea @ Cliffs Pavilion
5/04 -- London @ O2 Shepherd’s Bush Empire
5/06 -- London @ The O2 Forum, Kentish Town
5/07 -- London @ Brixton Academy
5/09 -- Norwich @ The UEA
5/10 -- Bournemouth O2 Academy
5/12 -- Llandudno @ Venue Cymru
5/13 -- Manchester @ Manchester Arena
5/14 -- Leeds @ Leeds First Direct Arena
5/16 -- Hull @ Hull City Hall
5/17 -- Newcastle City Hall
5/19 -- Glasgow @ The Hydro,
5/20 -- Birmingham @ Barclaycard Arena
5/21 -- Nottingham @ Royal Concert Hall

Shoegaze boxset bliss: 'Still In A Dream' coming in January


Cherry Red is releasing an immense five disc shoegaze boxset, Still In A Dream: A Story Of Shoegaze 1988 - 1995. All the legendary and notable bands are featured on the compilation -- Ride, Lush, Jesus & Mary Chain, Slowdive, Swervedriver, Catherine Wheel, Chapterhouse, Boo Radleys, Loop, Pale Saints, Cocteau Twins, Kitchens Of Distinction, Galaxie 500, House Of Love, Curve, Ultravivid Scene, Revolver, Majesty Crush...the list goes on and on! The set comes out January 29th and is the perfect gift for a shoegaze fan or for someone just getting into the genre. So far there isn't a pre-order option for those in North America, but one should be available on Amazon shortly. For now, take a look at the tracklisting below and view the listing on Amazon UK via Creation Records.

Disc 1

01. The Jesus & Mary Chain – Rollercoaster
02. The Cocteau Twins – Cherry-Coloured Funk
03. The House Of Love – Christine
04. A.R. Kane – Baby Milk Snatcher (12” Version)
05. Ultra Vivid Scene – Mercy Seat (12” Version)
06. Spacemen 3 – Hypnotized
07. Loop – Arc-lite (sonar)
08. 14 Iced Bears – Surfacer
09. Galaxie 500 – Tugboat
10. The Prayers – Puppet Clouds
11. Kitchens Of Distinction – The 3rd Time We Opened The Capsule
12. A.C. Marias – One Of Our Girls Has Gone Missing
13. The Telescopes – Precious Little
14. Pale Saints – Sight Of You
15. Jane From Occupied Europe – Ocean Run Dry
16. Sonic Boom – Angel

Disc 2

01. Ride – Drive Blind
02. Lush – De-luxe
03. See See Rider – Slip So Slow
04. Nightblooms – Crystal Eyes
05. The Darkside – Waiting For The Angels
06. Velocity Girl – I Don’t Care If You Go
07. Cranes – Inescapable
08. Chapterhouse – Falling Down
09. Whipping Boy – Switchblade Smile
10. The Boo Radleys – Kaleidoscope
11. Swervedriver – Rave Down
12. Slowdive – Slowdive
13. The Charlottes – Liar
14. Dr. Phibes & The House Of Wax Equations – Sugarblast
15. Bleach – Decadence
16. Catherine Wheel – She’s My Friend (wilde Club Version)
17. Blow-up – Somersault Sunrise
18. Bark Psychosis – All Different Things

Disc 3

01. Curve – Ten Little Girls
02. The Dylans – Godlike
03. Th’ Faith Healers – Gorgeous Blue Flower In My Garden
04. The Lilys – February Fourteenth
05. The Honey Smugglers – Good Afternoon
06. Spirea X – Chlorine Dream
07. Moonshake – Gravity
08. Spitfire – Translucent
09. Moose – Suzanne
10. Spiritualized – Run
11. Revolver – Heaven Sent An Angel
12. Lowlife – June Wilson
13. The Ecstasy Of Saint Theresa – Square Wave
14. Black Tambourine – By Tomorrow
15. Whipped Cream – Explosion
16. Smashing Orange – My Deranged Heart
17. The Hinnies – Gong
18. Bang Bang Machine – Geek Love (original 12” Version)

Disc 4

01. The Sunflowers – Closer
02. Drop – Mirrored
03. The Belltower – In Hollow
04. Sweet Jesus – Phonefreak Honey
05. Adorable – Sunshine Smile
06. Sun Dial – I Don’t Mind
07. Swallow – Sugar Your Mind
08. Drop Nineteens – Winona
09. Flaming Lips – Talkin’ ’bout The Smiling Deathporn Immortality Blues
10. Medicine – Aruca
11. Coaltar Of The Deepers – Charming Sister Kiss Me Dead!!
12. The Honey Buzzards – Starhappy
13. Loveliescrushing – Babysbreath
14. Majesty Crush – No. 1 Fan
15. The Swirlies – Park The Car By The Side Of The Road
16. Submarine – Chemical Tester
17. Bailter – Space Shine
18. Spectrum – True Love Will Find You In The End
19. Blind Mr. Jones – Spooky Vibes

Disc 5

01. An April March – Memory
02. Flying Saucer Attack – Soaring High
03. Drugstore – Alive
04. Secret Shine – Loveblind
05. Mercury Rev – Bronx Cheer
06. The Curtain Society – Chelsea
07. Seefeel – Plainsong
08. Spindrift – Surround Sound
09. Rollerskate Skinny – Miss Leader
10. Bardo Pond – Die Easy
11. Alison’s Halo – Dozen
12. Swirl – The Last Unicorn
13. Bowery Electric – Next To Nothing
14. Bethany Curve – Me Voy
15. Astrobrite – Orange Creamsickle
16. Luna – 23 Minutes In Brussels

David Bowie premieres "Blackstar" single & video


David Bowie premiered the title track from his forthcoming album Blackstar earlier this week. The album, which is Bowie's 28th (!) arrives on January 8th, which just so happens to be his birthday. View the trippy and fantastic video for "Blackstar" below and pre-order the full album through Bowie's webstore -- there are several deluxe, limited edition versions, and bundles (some of which include limited edition lithographs). Blackstar is also available to pre-order through iTunes and Amazon.

Wednesday, November 11, 2015

Michael Stipe plays surprise covers set at Patti Smith show 11/10

Michael Stipe was the unannounced special guest opener for Patti Smith at her show in New York City last night. He performed a set of covers -- originals from David Bowie, John Lennon, Neil Young, the Doors, Boy George & more. Smith also invited Stipe on stage to perform a few songs together during her set.  Indeed what a treat for fans attending the show -- it's rare for Stipe to perform live these days -- Stipe's last performance was December 2014 when he opened for Patti Smith for her birthday shows in New York City.

Watch some fan filmed video snippets of his set below.

UPDATE: More video is available to view below, thanks to You Tube uploaders!











A video posted by Liz Raftery (@lizzo1) on


A video posted by Laura Kaye (@laurakayemusic) on





Tuesday, November 10, 2015

The Cure officially announce dates for 2016 North American tour


The Cure announced details for their 2016 North American tour today. According to the band's press release, the Cure will perform songs from their entire catalog -- hits, rarities, fan favorites, and some "as of yet previously unreleased material" (aka new songs).  The Cure's touring band will be: Robert Smith, Simon Gallup, Jason Cooper, Roger O'Donnell, and Reeves Gabrels.

Sadly, there is no Detroit date, so take a look at the tour itinerary below and start mapping out your road trip. Note: the Toronto & Seattle dates are TBA, and some of the venues are also TBA. For more on the tour, visit the Cure's official site.



2016 North American tour

5/11 -- New Orleans, LA @ TBA
5/13 -- Austin, TX @ Frank Erwin Center
5/14 -- Houston, TX @ TBA
5/15 -- Dallas, TX @ TBA
5/17 -- El Paso, TX @ Don Haskins Center
5/19 -- Las Vegas, NV @ The Chelsea Theater/The Cosmopolitan
5/20 -- Chula Vista, CA @ Sleep Train Amphitheater
5/22 -- Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl (SOLD OUT)
5/23 -- Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl (SOLD OUT)
5/24 -- Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl (SOLD OUT)
5/26 -- Mountain View, CA @ Shoreline Amphitheater
5/31 -- Vancouver, BC @ Festival Lawn/Deer Lake Park
6/03 -- Salt Lake City, UT @ Maverik Center
6/05 -- Denver, CO @ Fiddler's Green Amphitheater
6/08 -- Kansas City, MO @ Starlight Theater
6/10 -- Chicago, IL @ UIC Pavillion (SOLD OUT)
6/11 -- Chicago, IL @ UIC Pavillion (SOLD OUT)
6/14 -- Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre
6/15 -- Boston, MA @ TBA
6/18 -- New York, NY @ Madison Square Garden (SOLD OUT)
6/19 -- New York, NY @ Madison Square Garden (SOLD OUT)
6/20 -- New York, NY @ Madison Square Garden
6/22 -- Columbia, MD @ Merriweather Post Pavillion
6/24 -- Atlanta, GA @ Aarons Amphitheater Lakewook
6/26 -- Miami, FL @ Bayfront Park Amphitheater

*Toronto date TBA (will be 6/12 or 6/13)
*Seattle date TBA

Monday, November 2, 2015

Stone Roses announce live shows

This morning Stone Roses fans in Manchester woke up to find the band's trademark lemon posters were plastered everywhere around the city.


As it turns out, the posters were placed to generate excitement for the band's eventual tour announcement. The Stone Roses will perform two shows in Manchester in June, and they'll play the T in the Park festival in Scotland in July. All of this is certainly exciting news for fans in those areas, and it certainly opens the door to the possibility of other festival dates in 2016. The announcement was a bit of a letdown for those hoping for news about an album (or even a song!), but considering the band has allegedly been in the studio working, it's highly possible they'll release something prior to the live dates. On the other hand, this IS the Stone Roses we're talking about, so new music could truly be years away!

For more on the Stone Roses and their live shows, visit the official site here.

Thursday, October 29, 2015

Peter Hook announces 'Substance: Joy Division & New Order' tour


Over the last few years Peter Hook has been performing Joy Division and New Order albums in full on tour -- to date he's played Closer, Unknown Pleasures, Movement, Power, Corruption & Lies, Low-Life, and Brotherhood. Today he announced plans for his newest tour, Substance: Joy Division & New Order, which will see him perform the Joy Division and New Order compilations Substance on tour in 2016. Both of these Factory classics will be performed live, sequentially, and in full, so expect a lengthy and intense concert experience! Hooky is a legend and BRINGS it at his live shows -- Joy Division and New Order fans will NOT leave disappointed.

The Substance: Joy Division & New Order tour debuts in September 2016. So far only three UK dates have been announced, but more dates will be revealed soon as Hook intends to bring this tour to North America in 2016.


For more on Peter Hook's Substance tour, visit his official site.

Peter Hook -- Substance tour

9/15 -- Glasgow @ Barrowlands
9/16 -- Manchester @ 02 Apollo
9/17 -- London @ Kentish Town Forum









Tuesday, October 27, 2015

NIN releases limited edition 'Halo I-IV' boxset for Black Friday Record Store Day


Nine Inch Nails will release a limited edition Halo I-IV vinyl box set for this year's Black Friday Record Store Day, which takes place November 27th. The set contains the original 12” singles for “Down In It” (originally released 9/15/89), “Head Like A Hole” (originally released 3/22/90), and “Sin” (originally released 10/10/90) all pressed on 120 gram black vinyl.  Additionally the set includes Pretty Hate Machine (originally released 10/20/89) pressed on 180-gram black vinyl. The tracklisting for the set is posted below. Keep in mind this is a limited edition release and will only be available at participating record stores -- it's best to contact your favorite store ahead of time to see if they'll be stocking the release.  For more on Record Store Day, visit the official site here.



halo one - Down In It

A1. Down In It (Skin)
A2. Down In It (Shred)

B1. Down In It (Singe)

halo two - Pretty Hate Machine

A1. Head Like A Hole
A2. Terrible Lie
A3. Down In It
A4. Sanctified
A5. Something I Can Never Have

B1. Kinda I Want To
B2. Sin
B3. That's What I Get
B4. The Only Time
B5. Ringfinger

halo three - Head Like A Hole

A1. Head Like A Hole (Slate)
A2. Terrible Lie (Sympathetic Mix)
A3. Head Like A Hole (Clay)

B1. Head Like A Hole (Copper)
B2. You Know Who You Are
B3. Head Like A Hole (Soil)
B4. Terrible Lie (Empathetic Mix)

halo four - Sin

A1. Sin
A2. Sin

B1. Get
B2. Sin

Stream: Peter Murphy shares live "Ziggy Stardust" recording


This Friday Peter Murphy releases the digital album download edition of his live album Mr. Moonlight Tour: 35 Years Of Bauhaus. The download edition features 19 songs -- 9 of the songs were NOT included on the CD edition of the live album. Stream one of the previously unreleased tracks -- Murphy's cover of "Ziggy Stardust" -- and view the complete tracklisting for the digital release below.



01. King Volcano (Live)*
02. Kingdom’s Coming (Live)*
03. Double Dare (Live)
04. In the Flat Field (Live)
05. A God in an Alcove (Live)
06. Boys (Live)*
07. Silent Hedges (Live)
08. Endless Summer of the Damned (Live)*
09. The Spy in the Cab (Live)
10. A Strange Kind of Love (Live)*
11. Bela Lugosi’s Dead (Live)
12. The Passion of Lovers (Live)
13. Stigmata Martyr (Live)
14. Dark Entries (Live)*
15. Severance (Live)*
16. Hollow Hills (Live)
17. Spirit (Live)
18. Telegram Sam (Live)*
19. Ziggy Stardust (Live)*

Winter return with blissful "All The Things You Do" single & play Detroit


Los Angeles band Winter released its glorious debut album Supreme Blue Dream just a few months ago and this week the dreampop four piece has returned with an equally brilliant new single. Enjoy the video for the shimmery "All The Things You Do" below and grab it now through Burger Records, iTunes, and Amazon (also available to stream on Spotify).



Be sure to catch Winter on the road in support of the new single and album -- the tour includes a stop at the Pike Room in Pontiac on Friday, October 30th. Dates for the full itinerary are posted below.



For more on Winter visit them on Facebook and Twitter.

10/27 -- Kansas City, MO @ The Riot Room
10/28 -- Minneapolis, MN @ The Nether Bar
10/29 -- Chicago, IL @ Beat Kitchen
10/30 -- Pontiac, MI @ Pike Room
10/31 -- Columbus, OH @ Double Happiness
11/02 -- Toronto, ON @ The Drake Hotel
11/03 -- Montreal, QC @ Bar La Ritz PDB
11/04 -- Somerville, MA @ Cuisine en Locale
11/05 -- Hamden, CT @ The Space
11/06 -- Philadelphia, PA @ Voltage Lounge
11/07 -- Harrisburg, PA @ Milworks
11/08 -- New York, NY @ Mercury Lounge
11/09 -- Washington, DC @ Black Cat Backstage
11/10 -- Chapel Hill, NC @ Local 506
11/12 -- Atlanta, GA @ The Masquerade - Purgatory
11/13 -- Jacksonville, FL @ Burro Bar
11/14 -- Tampa, FL @ Epic Problem
11/16 -- Houston, TX @ The Studio at Warehouse Live
11/17 -- San Antonio, TX @ Korova Basement
11/18 -- Austin, TX @ Hotel Vegas
11/19 -- Lubbock, TX @ Jake's Backroom
11/20 -- Albequerque, NM @ Launchpad
11/21 -- Phoenix, AZ @ The Rebel Lounge
11/22 -- San Diego, CA @ The Casbah
11/24 -- Los Angeles, CA @ The Echo

Sunday, October 25, 2015

David Bowie confirms (and clarifies) new LP 'Blackstar'

This weekend the Times of London reported a new David Bowie album, Blackstar, would be released on January 8th. The paper also described the album as possibly Bowie's "oddest" work to date and claimed the record was influenced by Kraftwerk and jazz elements. Today Bowie posted a short statement confirming the record's title and January 8th release, but revealed that reports regarding the sound and content of the album are "inaccurate." In any case, the album's first single will be issued on November 20th.

Read Bowie's statement about Blackstar below:

"It can now be confirmed that ‘Blackstar’ is the forthcoming single and album from David Bowie. Contrary to inaccurate reporting on the sound and content of the album, only the following can be confirmed:

The single will be released on November 20th and is not part of David’s theatre piece ‘Lazarus’.

The album will be released on David’s birthday, January 8th 2016."

Saturday, October 24, 2015

Report: New David Bowie LP due in January

David Bowie will reportedly release a new album on his birthday, January 8th. According to the Times, Bowie's new album Blackstar was heavily influenced by Kraftwerk and jazz. The paper went on to describe Blackstar as Bowie's "oddest" and most experimental work to date revealing the album's title track includes "Gregorian chants, a soul section, various electronic beats and bleeps, and Bowie's distinctive vocal." So far Bowie himself hasn't confirmed the album on social media. Read the full piece in the Times here.

Tuesday, October 20, 2015

Afghan Whigs' Greg Dulli announces intimate solo tour


Greg Dulli of Afghan Whigs announced an intimate solo tour for early 2016 which will see Dulli perform songs, fan favorites, and a few new songs in small clubs, churches and synagogues. Along with the tour announcement Dulli premiered his cover of the Sharon Van Etten original "A Crime," which also features guest Ani DiFranco. "A Crime" is available to download for free here.

Tickets for A Night With Greg Dulli go on sale Friday, October 23rd and the fan pre-sale kicks off Wednesday, October 21st (password for all dates: Dulli2016). More info on the tickets & tour is posted here. The pre-sale for the Detroit show kicks off tomorrow at 10am here.

A Night With Greg Dulli

3/10 -- Boston, MA @ The Sinclair
3/11 -- Brooklyn, NY @ Roulette
3/12 -- Washington, DC @ 6th & I Synagogue
3/13 -- Philadelphia, PA @ First Unitarian Church
3/15 -- Toronto, ON @ Great Hall
3/16 -- Detroit, MI @ Marble Bar
3/17 -- Cincinnati, OH @ Woodward Theater
3/18 -- Chicago, IL @ Old Town School Of Folk
3/19 -- Minneapolis, MN @ Cedar Cultural Center
3/21 -- Seattle, WA @ Triple Door
3/22 -- Vancouver, BC @ Biltmore Cabaret
3/23 -- Portland, OR @ Doug Fir
3/25 -- San Francisco, CA @ The Independent
3/26 -- Los Angeles, CA @ Teregram Ballroom
3/29 -- Dallas, TX @ Kessler Theater
3/30 -- Austin, TX @ Central Presbyterian Church
4/01 -- New Orleans, LA @ Preservation Hall
4/02 -- New Orleans, LA @ Preservation Hall

Monday, October 19, 2015

Live stream: Dave Gahan & Soulsavers


Dave Gahan & Soulsavers release a new album titled Angels & Ghosts on October 23rd. In promotion of the record they're playing two shows in the U.S. this week.  Tonight is the first of those concerts and it will stream live from Los Angeles starting at midnight ET. In case you can't stay up to watch the concert, the archive will also be available to stream for ~ 24 hours after the show is over. Head here to catch the live stream and view the archive post-show.

Angels & Ghosts is streaming ahead of its release over at NPR -- stream the album here. The official video for the new single "All of This And Nothing" is available to view below:

Monday, October 12, 2015

IAMX (ft Sneaker Pimps' founding member) releases dark & sexy LP 'Metanoia'


Sneaker Pimps' founding member Chris Corner has been making music with his dark, goth-electro solo project IAMX for over ten years. The band's newly released sixth studio record, Metanoia, continues in the same vein as previous releases -- cold, dark, smoldering, and sexy beats. IAMX issued a video for the album's second single "Oh Cruel Darkness Embrace Me," which is available to view below. Grab Metanoia from iTunes and Amazon, and be sure to catch IAMX on the road this month. For more on IAMX, visit the official site here.

RIYL: Gary Numan, Nine Inch Nails, Marilyn Manson



IAMX North American tour

10/13 -- Seattle, WA @ Neumo's
10/16 -- Salt Lake City, UT @ The Urban Lounge
10/17 -- Denver, CO @ Marquis Theater
10/19 -- Minneapolis, MN @ Varsity Theater
10/20 -- Chicago, IL @ Bottom Lounge
10/22 -- Detroit, MI @ Shelter
10/23 -- Toronto, ON @ Lee's Palace
10/24 -- Montreal, QB @ Virgin Mobile Corona Theatre
10/26 -- Allston, MA @ Brighton Music Hall
10/27 -- Philadelphia, PA @ Underground Arts
10/29 -- Washington, DC @ U Street Music Hall
10/30 -- New York, NY @ Webster Hall

Saturday, October 10, 2015

Stream: New Order's Maida Vale session & new remix


New Order appeared at the legendary Maida Vale studios in London yesterday for a BBC Radio 6 live session.  The band's nine song set was a mix of classics and fresh tracks from New Order's impressive 10th studio album Music CompleteLa Roux, who is one of the guests on Music Complete, also appeared with New Order for the Maida Vale session.  Audio of the entire session is available to stream here, and video of a few songs from the performance is below:








Meanwhile New Order released their 6 track Restless remix EP on Friday -- the Andrew Weatherall remix is SO MASSIVE! Stream below and grab the EP on iTunes or Amazon.


Ride releases 'Vapour Trail - Disintegrated 2015' EP


Earlier this week Robert Smith announced he remixed Ride's classic song "Vapour Trail" for a new release titled Vapour Trail -- Disintegrated 2015. Smith's two mixes -- the Vapour Remix, and the Trail Remix -- are now available as digital downloads from iTunes and Amazon. Stream both mixes below.

Please note: Ride will release the 25th anniversary edition of Nowhere on November 6th -- these mixes are NOT included as part of the reissue.





Meanwhile the Cure announced they'll embark on a 25 date tour of North America in 2016. So far six dates on the tour have been announced and tickets for those shows are on sale now. The rest of the dates on the tour will be announced in January according to the Cure.

The Cure -- North American tour (dates announced so far)

05/22 -- Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl
05/23 -- Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl
05/24 -- Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl
06/10 -- Chicago, IL @ UIC Pavillion
06/18 -- New York, NY @ Madison Square Garden
06/19 -- New York, NY @ Madison Square Garden

The Cure on tour & record in 2016: weighing the possiblities


Now that we've had almost a week to chew on the Cure's announcement and/or pre-announcement for their 2016 tour, some questions come to mind about what to expect from the Cure (live and on record) in 2016. While there are no answers to the questions, it's fun to consider the possibilities while we wait for the full announcement in January.



Will the Cure play marathon shows and what about any potential Reflections/trilogy dates?

For the last several years, other than festival appearances, the Cure have been playing very LONG sets (35 - 40+ songs) with most shows lasting well over three hours and some as long as four. It seems a bit unlikely the Cure, or any band for that matter, would have the physical strength/stamina to keep up that pace for a 25 date tour. As for Reflections/trilogy shows, Robert Smith said in previous interviews that he's (eventually) planning to do another Reflections tour and perform The Top, The Head On The Door, and (Bob's favorite Cure album) Kiss Me, Kiss Me, Kiss Me in full.

Tour predictions for 2016:

I'd guess the shows will be on average 2 to 3 hours long, packed with hits, fan favorites, and a few rarities. I'd expect that the "25 date North American tour" won't include many (if any) Reflections shows. I could see The Cure doing a trilogy show in a city with multiple dates (either New York or Los Angeles), but I'd bet against a full 25 date Reflections tour.



Will the Cure release a new album in 2016? What about the series of DVDs and those other limited edition collections Bob promised us last year?!?

It's hard to imagine that there won't be a new record in 2016 -- Smith stated he's interested in "moving forward" with the current lineup of the Cure and wants to record new material. Smith also has mentioned putting out a series of live DVDs, but it doesn't make a whole lot of sense to release a live DVD series before heading out on the road to perform live.

The collections Smith announced in 2014 are a bit complicated -- last year Smith said he'd release an album titled 4:13 Scream, and two limited edition collections 4:26 Dream and 4:14 Scream (all three of these releases piggybacking off the 33 song project Smith began in 2007, read more about that here.) When Smith discussed the project last year, he seemed a bit conflicted about revisiting the project.



Release predictions for 2016:

I'd predict a brand new Cure album is released by late spring 2016 with the official announcement coming in January. I don't see the DVD series coming out in 2016, although they could release something in the fall in time for Christmas. I'd also bet the Scream/Dream releases continue to get scrapped/delayed for a while longer, likely not out in 2016.

Stay tuned, because the above are just my silly predictions -- anything could happen and you never know when more info will be announced and/or leaked!



The Cure -- North American tour (dates announced so far)

05/22 -- Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl
05/23 -- Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl
05/24 -- Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl
06/10 -- Chicago, IL @ UIC Pavillion
06/18 -- New York, NY @ Madison Square Garden
06/19 -- New York, NY @ Madison Square Garden

Wednesday, October 7, 2015

Sulk returns with glorious "Black Infinity"


London's Sulk released its impressive (and Madchestery) debut album Graceless in 2013, and now the band is back with a new single titled "Black Infinity (Upside Down)." The track is in the same musical vein of Graceless, thus fans of Stone Roses, Charlatans, and other 90's British music will dig this delicious slice of excellence. So far Sulk hasn't announced details for a new album, but news on that is expected soon. For now stream the glorious "Black Infinity (Upside Down)" along with a few of older tracks below and catch up with Sulk here or on Facebook.







Tuesday, October 6, 2015

The Cure announce plans for 25 date North American tour


The Robert Smith related news is coming fast and furious this week! Just yesterday Smith unveiled his remix of Ride's "Vapour Trail" (hinting that more mixes are coming), and today The Cure announced they're heading to North America in 2016 for a 25 date tour! So far only three of the dates have been announced -- Los Angeles, Chicago, and New York -- but the remainder of the dates will be announced in January. The Twilight Sad will serve as support for the tour which shouldn't come as too big of a surprise; Smith is a big fan of the Scottish band and recorded a cover their song "There's A Girl In The Corner" for a limited edition 7" release back in June. Dates/pre-sale info for the three Cure shows can be viewed below. Fans can also check out Smith's Twilight Sad cover and his Ride remix below.

UPDATE: The Cure added a second date in Los Angeles due to popular demand

The Cure -- North American tour (more dates TBA in January)

05/22 -- Los Angeles @ Hollywood Bowl (presale 10/7, password: curebowl)
05/23 -- Los Angeles @ Hollywood Bowl
06/10 -- Chicago @ UIC Pavillion (presale 10/8, password: thecure2016)
06/18 -- NYC @ Madison Square Garden (presale 10/10, password: disintegration)





Monday, October 5, 2015

Stream: Robert Smith remixes Ride's "Vapour Trail"


Ride's classic album Nowhere celebrates its 25th anniversary this year. The album, which is THE gold standard when it comes to shoegaze, will be reissued on November 6th as a cd/dvd (featuring a live concert recorded in 1991) and as a double LP (pre-order here). Ever the Ride fan, Robert Smith of the Cure decided to pay tribute to the shoegaze classic "Vapour Trail" with his own remix, which he debuted yesterday. While it's certainly not better than the original, Smith's remix adds a spacey, shall we say, vapoury vibe to the song. Pitchfork confirms Smith's remix won't be released as part of the Nowhere reissue but the cover art (posted above) seems to indicate Smith has more remixes up his sleeve, so stay tuned.  For now, stream Smith's remix of "Vapour Trail" below.

Tuesday, September 29, 2015

Peter Buck announces new solo LP 'Warzone Earth'


Peter Buck announced details for a new solo album titled Warzone Earth. In a posting on R.E.M.'s official website, Buck called Warzone Earth his best solo work to date. The vinyl only release features a ton of guests including Krist Novoselic, Jeff Tweedy, and Bill Rieflin plus it comes in two editions with each sporting a different cover designed by folk art legend Mingering Mike. Warzone Earth will be released October 9th through Little Axe Records and will also be available in limited quantities at independent record stores. For more on Warzone Earth, read Buck's announcement here.

Published September 29th, 2015 @ 8:32 PM

Stream: Protomartyr unleash "I Forgive You"


Protomartyr are set to return with their third album The Agent Intellect on October 9th. So far they've premiered a few songs from the record ("Why Does It Shake" and "Dope Cloud") and now another Protomartyr song has been unleashed! Stream "I Forgive You" below via Soundcloud and pre-order The Agent Intellect from iTunes, Amazon, and Hardly Art (first press of LP available on opaque green vinyl).



Protomartyr's Joe Casey was interviewed by UK mag Overblown and was asked about being from Detroit:

"Detroit offers basements and garages for relatively cheap (although that is changing) in which to practice, many bars and friend’s houses in which to play, and a citizenry that are, for the most part, into getting their drink on and music appreciators. So that’s where we come from. Also, because that scene isn’t about "flash" or "making it", a band of nobodies with rudimentary skills can feel okay playing out."

Read the full interview here.

Protomartyr play two record release shows in Detroit at the Marble Bar, then they'll kick off their North American tour in support of the Agent Intellect. Check out the list of dates below.





Protomartyr tour

10/09 Detroit, MI @ Marble Bar
10/10 Detroit, MI @ Marble Bar
10/11 Toronto, ON @ Horseshoe Tavern
10/12 Montreal, QB @ Bar Le Ritz PDB
10/13 Cambridge, MA @ Middle East Upstairs
10/15 New York, NY @ Knitting Factory
10/16 Brooklyn, NY @ Rough Trade
10/17 Baltimore, MD @ Metro Gallery
10/18 Philadelphia, PA - Johnny Brenda's
10/20 Raleigh, NC @ King's Barcade
10/21 Atlanta, GA @ The Earl
10/22 Nashville, TN @ Stone Fox
10/23 Bloomington, IN @ Blockhouse
10/24 Milwaukee, WI @ Cactus Club

Published September 29th, 2015 @ 6:02 AM

Zeit return with glorious new single


Back in 2013 shoegaze fans worldwide were blown away by Zeit's EP Life Is Such A Blur, so it's highly exciting to hear the Swedish band is back with a brand new single. Zeit's new track "Your Eyes" is another slice of glorious dream pop/shoegaze heaven! Envelop yourself in the beauty of "Your Eyes" below and grab it as a name-your-own-price download from Bandcamp.



Catch up with Zeit on Facebook.

Published September 29th, 2015 @ 5:38 AM

Lush officially reunite; Miki Berenyi discusses future plans


Lush confirmed they have officially reunited and announced plans for their grand return!  So far plans include the release of a limited edition anthology boxset, vinyl release of their 2001 greatest hits collection, and worldwide live dates.

The five disc limited edition Lush anthology titled Chorus will house all three of the band's studio albums, two compilations, and previously unreleased demos, radio sessions, remixes and rarities. Chorus is set for an early December release through 4AD.  The boxset will be preceded by the vinyl release of the band's 2001 greatest hits compilation Ciao!, which arrives in November. Official release dates and pre-order info for both collections will be announced shortly.

Along with the release info, Lush has announced one live date -- they'll perform at the Roundhouse in London on May 6th and tickets go on sale September 30th.  More worldwide tour dates are in the works and will be announced in the coming weeks.

Miki Berenyi revealed to BBC Radio 6 that after 20 years Lush decided to reunite but it was a difficult decision. Berenyi said it was impossible for the surviving members to even consider a reunion for the longest time due to Chris Acland's tragic suicide, however for the last several years fans had been encouraging Lush to reunite and they finally decided to give it a go. Though the band has discussed the possibility of writing and recording new music they are taking things one step at a time and will see what develops. For now, they're focused on relearning their old songs (Berenyi's been utilizing old Lush videos on You Tube to relearn her guitar parts!) and are preparing for some live shows. Listen to Berenyi discuss the Lush reunion below:



For more on Lush, visit the band's newly launched website here.

Published September 29th, 2015 @ 5:25 AM

Saturday, September 26, 2015

David Bowie tribute LP 'A Salute To The Thin White Duke' coming in October


A new David Bowie tribute record titled will be released next month.  A Salute To The Thin White Duke - The Songs Of David Bowie features covers by indie bands such as Dum Dum Girls, Electric Six, the KVB, The Muffs, the Vacant Lots and more. The full record arrives on October 2nd, but one track from the album -- the KVB's shimmering take on "Rebel Rebel" -- is available to stream in advance of the release. Take a listen below plus view the full tracklist for the CD/digital and LP versions.  A Salute To The Thin White Duke is available to pre-order now through iTunes, Amazon, and Bandcamp.



CD/digital download version

01. Rogue Wave - Modern Love
02. Jesca Hoop - John, I'm Only Dancig
03. Dum Dum Girls - Letter To Hermione
04. The Tulips - Heroes
05. Icky Blossoms - Ashes To Ashes
06. The Deer Tracks - Starman
07. The KVB - Rebel Rebel
08. Magic Wands - Cat People
09. Electric Six - Blue Jean
10. Heartless Bastards - Jean Genie
11. Ume - Suffragette City
12. The Vacant Lots - Fame
13. Kittie - Space Oddity
14. Boy Hits Car - Moonage Daydream
15. Coves - Absolute Beginners
16. The Muffs - Changes

LP version

Side A

1. Rogue Wave - Modern Love
2. Jesca Hoop - John, I’m Only Dancing
3. Dum Dum Girls - Letter To Hermione
4. The Tulips - Heroes
5. The KVB - Rebel Rebel

Side B

1. Magic Wands - Cat People (Putting Out Fire)
2. Electric Six - Blue Jean
3. Heartless Bastards - Jean Genie
4. The Vacant Lots - Fame
5. Kittie - Space Oddity
6. The Muffs - Changes

Published September 26th, 2015 @ 6:04 PM

Wednesday, September 23, 2015

Greek duo The Noise Figures release fuzzy new LP 'Aphelion'


The Noise Figures is a fuzzy guitar and drum project hailing from Athens, Greece. The duo went about recording its new album Aphelion in the most retro way possible -- the album was recorded over five days using a reel-to-reel machine, vintage instruments, and employing Pythagorean tuning (centuries-old technique). The result is a splendid fuzz/garagey-rock album chock full of awesomeness.   Aphelion will be released September 28th and is available to pre-order now (on red vinyl!) through Inner Ear Records and Bandcamp. Stream two tracks from Aphelion below and catch up with The Noise Figures on Facebook.





Published September 23rd, 2015 @ 9:01 PM

Wednesday, September 16, 2015

Johnny Marr announces live double LP 'Adrenalin Baby'


A few months ago Johnny Marr mentioned he was planning on releasing a live album and now he's proved that he'll make good on that promise! Marr announced details for his very first live album titled Adrenalin Baby. The double album (go big or go home!) was captured live over the span of three years while Marr was promoting his solo albums The Messenger and Playland. The tracklist looks pretty strong -- besides the singles from his two albums, he's included performances of Smiths' classics such as "There Is A Light That Never Goes Out" and "Bigmouth Strikes Again," plus Electronic's anthem "Getting Away With It."

Adrenalin Baby will be released on October 9th, and pre-order info will be available soon. In the meantime, take a look at the tracklisting for the double album below video of Marr rocking out:



01. Playland
02. The Right Thing Right
03. Easy Money
04. 25 Hours
05. New Town Velocity
06. The Headmaster Ritual
07. The Messenger
08. Back In The Box
09. Generate! Generate!
10. Bigmouth Strikes Again
11. Boys Get Straight
12. Candidate
13. Getting Away With It
14. There Is A Light That Never Goes Out
15. Dynamo
16. I Fought The Law
17. How Soon Is Now?

Published September 16th, 2015 @ 4:21 PM

Stream New Order's new dancefloor jam "Plastic"


New Order premiered another song from the band's forthcoming studio album Music Complete. If the last single "Restless" left you a little disappointed, not to worry, because this new single "Plastic" is a tasty all-out driving dancefloor booty jam.  Stream "Plastic" in all its awesomeness below:



Music Complete will be released on September 25th. Pre-order now from New Order's store.

FYI, New Order will be live streaming the full album & participating in a Q & A session on September 25th. More details on that are posted here.

Published September 16th, 2015 @ 4:07 PM

Monday, September 14, 2015

Shirley Manson reunites with Angelfish


Shirley Manson reunited with her old band Angelfish on Saturday night. The one-off show was a benefit staged by Scottish Circle to help raise funds for women's charities in Rwanda and Nepal. Watch fan-filmed footage from the event below and check out pictures here and here.









Manson is preparing to hit the road with Garbage for the North American leg of the 20 Years Queer tour, which sees Garbage performing their debut album in full. A 20th anniversary edition of Garbage is also set for release on October 2nd. Pre-order info is posted here.

Also: Garbage is doing an AMA on Reddit October 2nd at 3pm ET, so get your questions ready!

Garbage 20 Years Queer tour

10/06 -- San Diego, CA @ Humphrey's Concerts By the Bay
10/07 -- Oakland, CA @ Fox Theatre
10/08 -- Los Angeles, CA @ Greek Theater
10/10 -- Las Vegas, NV @ Cosmopolitan
10/13 -- Houston, TX @ Bayou Music Center
10/14 -- Austin, TX @ Stubb's Amphitheatre
10/15 -- Dallas, TX @ South Side Ballroom
10/17 -- Chicago, IL @ Riviera
10/18 -- Madison, WI @ Orpheum
10/19 -- Royal Oak, MI @ Royal Oak Music Theater
10/21 -- Boston, MA @ Orpheum
10/23 -- Westbury, NY @ The Space
10/24 -- Brooklyn, NY @ Kings Theater
10/26 -- Toronto, ON @ Phoenix Concert Theatre
10/28 -- Washington, DC @ 9:30 Club
10/29 -- Washington, DC @ 9:30 Club

Published September 14th, 2015 @ 8:25 PM

Sunday, September 13, 2015

New Order: Music Complete release events


New Order is gearing up for the release of its 10th studio album Music Complete and has announced a couple of promo events:

In conjunction with Germany's annual electronic music conference Reeperbahn Festival, Electronic Beats will be staging a special live streaming event with New Order on September 25th. The event includes a full stream of Music Complete, followed by an interview session with New Order. After the Q & A session, drummer Stephen Morris will be among a handful of DJs firing up the wheels of steel to spin some groov-a-licious tracks. According to Electronic Beats, the entire event -- including Morris' DJ set -- will stream worldwide beginning at 7pm CET (1pm ET). Details for accessing the stream will be posted soon.  Fans interested in posing a question to New Order can submit questions now on social media (Twitter/Facebook) using #AskNewOrder.

Meanwhile on October 9th New Order will be playing a live session at the legendary Maida Vale studios in London for BBC Music 6. The interview and live performance will be available to stream live on BBC Music 6, and the archive will be available to stream on demand for a limited time after the session airs. More details on the session will be available closer to the event, so check back soon for details/linkage.

New Order's 10th studio album Music Complete will be released on September 25th and is available to pre-order now. Additionally the first single "Restless" will have its own remix EP, Restless (Remixes) EP, which will be released on October 9th. One of the remixes is available to stream below along with the official music video for "Restless."





Published September 13th, 2015 @ 7:59 AM