Friday, March 31, 2017

Tina, Bring Me The Axe...


And so it goes...

As you may have heard, yesterday 89X (parent company Bell Media) shut down its U.S. satellite office and terminated the entire U.S. staff. Over 20 talented, creative, and hard working team members lost their jobs yesterday. I was one of the casualties.

I started at 89X in 1991 as an intern, and did my first on-air shift on February 29th, 1992 (Leap Day). The shift was from 6pm until 9pm...right before the maiden voyage of Club X. Good times. Even though that first show was rife with skipping CDs (skipping/malfunctioning CDs would later go on to plague me for almost my entire career!), it was so mind blowing and exciting to be an air pirate on 89X. That phenomenal sensation and the excitement and joy lasted another 25 years.

It's hard to imagine being on air for 25 years at 89X. It seems like a lifetime, yet oddly enough it also seems like just yesterday. 89X was a blast, especially in the early days...it was like living a dream come true. In 89X's heyday brilliant new music was coming out fast and furious. We were in the midst of so many awesome bands, shows, and special 89X events. Sure, there were some rough times too. 89X was always the underdog...but somehow we made the magic happen, despite all the roadblocks, crazy work arounds, and drama that goes along with being a "border" station.

I had the honor of working with so many amazing and talented people over the years. I learned so much from them all, and I am so grateful for the extraordinary experience and opportunity. I have nothing but love for everyone who has worked at 89X. Space does not permit me to thank each and every person along the way, but I do have a few special thank yous:

First, I extend my gratitude to 89X's founders: Greg St. James, Lex Kuhne, and the late Lem Payne. Without them, there would have been no 89X. They had the vision as well as the foresight, ambition, and talent to take that vision and make it a reality.

Thanks to Michelle Denome who took a chance and hired me on as an air pirate.

I am indebted to my mentor and BFF Vince Cannova (Lint Free, baby!) for teaching me so much about radio, the music business, the world we live in, and life in general.

Love to creative producer/genius Alan McKinnon who always gave me hope and had wise words when things were looking down.

A mighty thank you to the 89X sales staff who always had my back and represented for me.

And most of all, I would like to thank everyone who listened to 89X and Time Warp over the years. Without you, I'm nothing. Music has always been my passion and the best part of my job was being able to share that passion and connect with other music lovers. In turn, so many listeners turned me on to brilliant new or obscure bands I wasn't familiar with. I thank you for that immensely.

I am devastated over my termination at 89X. Time Warp was a labor of love. I ate, drank, and breathed Time Warp. It was my obsession -- it consumed me, and I cherished every minute of it.

Though my era at 89X is over, by no means does this end my passion for music. I'm hoping to bring another classic alternative music show to the airwaves or some other multi-media format, hopefully soonish. In the meantime, as always, my website will be updated regularly with music, music news, and concert updates. Starting this Sunday April 2nd, I will share a streaming weekly playlist with you and we will figure things out from there.

I 100% enjoyed my time at 89X and feel utterly blessed and lucky for the privilege. Thank you for everything. Peace out.

Tina, bring me the axe...





Tuesday, March 28, 2017

Echo & The Bunnymen live recordings collected for LP release


A collection of live recordings from Echo & The Bunnymen will be released on vinyl this spring. It's All Live Now collects several covers Echo performed during a 1985 session for Swedish National Radio, including classics from Velvet Underground, The Modern Lovers, Television, Rolling Stones, and The Doors, as well as two additional songs captured in 1983 in London. The material was previously released as part of the 2001 box set Crystal Days: 1979 - 1999, but this is the first time it's available separately.

It's All Live Now was released digitally and on streaming services earlier this month, and a vinyl edition is planned for June 6th. The limited 180 gm vinyl edition contains new artwork, plus photos and liner notes by Will Sergeant. Pre-orders will remain open through March 31st. Please note: this is a limited pressing, so those interested should pre-order now exclusively through Run Out Groove Vinyl.

Stream the collection below or on Spotify.





Side A

1. She Cracked (April 1985)
2. It's All Over Now Baby Blue (April 1985)
3. Soul Kitchen (April 1985)
4. Action Woman (April 1985)
5. Paint It Black (April 1985)

Side B

1. Run, Run, Run (April 1985)
2. Friction (April 1985)
3. Crocodiles (April 1985)
4. Heroin (July 1983)
5. Do It Clean (July 1983)

Published March 28th, 2017

Sparks announce 'Hippopotamus' LP, share single/video


Sparks announced details for a new album titled Hippopotamus. The new offering from the Mael Brothers will be released September 8th on double vinyl, CD, cassette, and digital download. Watch the official video for "Hippopotamus" below and check out all the pre-order options here. FYI, the first 1000 orders through the official Sparks store come with an exclusive free 7" single.



Tracklisting

01. Probably Nothing
02. Missionary Position
03. Edith Piaf (Said It Better Than Me)
04. Scandinavian Design
05. Giddy Giddy
06. What The Hell Is It This Time?
07. Unaware
08. Hippopotamus
09. Bummer
10. I Wish You Were Fun
11. So Tell Me Mrs. Lincoln Aside From That How Was The Play?
12. When You're A French Director
13. The Amazing Mr. Repeat
14. A Little Bit Like Fun
15. Life With The Macbeths

Published March 28th, 2017

Wire unleash brilliant new LP 'Silver/Lead'


Wire return with their 15th studio album on March 31st, marking the 40th anniversary of their debut performance. Though the record may be released on an important anniversary, don't expect a throw-back record -- Silver/Lead continues the band's impressive run of thoroughly vital, relevant, and timeless music. The fantastic new 10 track album is streaming ahead of its release -- head over to Noisey to enjoy all ten tracks.

To coincide with the album's release and 40th anniversary, the post-punk titans head stateside to headline DRILL:LA. The three day Wire-curated festival also includes Bob Mould, Fitted (ft Mike Watt), Part Time Punks, Chasms, Noveller, the Pinkflag Guitar Orchestra, and more. Wire also play a handful of other (non-festival) North American dates. View the tour itinerary below:



Wire -- North American tour

Mar 30 -- Los Angeles, CA @ Echoplex
Mar 31 -- Los Angeles, CA @ Echoplex
Apr 01 -- Los Angeles, CA @ Echoplex
Apr 03 -- San Francisco, CA @ Slims
Apr 04 -- Portland, OR @ Dantes
Apr 07 -- Vancouver, BC @ Imperial Theatre
Apr 08 -- Seattle, WA @ Crocodile

Published March 28th, 2017



Slowdive announce new LP, share elegant single


Slowdive announced details for their first new studio album in 22 years. The self-titled record (a nod to their self-titled debut EP from 1990) arrives May 5th and features eight tracks including "Star Roving," the song they released earlier this year. According to Slowdive, the new album is fun, vibrant, and relevant. Frontman Neil Halstead on the new album:

"We were always ambitious. Not in terms of trying to sell records, but in terms of making interesting records. Maybe, if you try and make interesting records, they're still interesting in a few years' time."

Stream the elegant new single "Sugar For The Pill" below and pre-order Slowdive here.



Slowdive -- North American tour

Apr 30 -- Fort Worth, TX @ Fortress Festival
May 02 -- St. Paul, MN @ Palace Theatre
May 03 -- Chicago, IL @ The Vic
May 05 -- Toronto, ON @ Danforth Music Hall
May 06 -- Montreal, QC @ L'Olympia
May 07 -- Washington, DC @ 9:30 Club
May 08 -- Brooklyn, NY @ Brooklyn Steel
May 09 -- Brooklyn, NY @ Brooklyn Steel
May 10 -- Carrboro, NC @ Cat's Cradle
May 11 -- Atlanta, GA @ Variety Playhouse

Published March 28th, 2017

Sunday, March 26, 2017

89X Time Warp -- Playlist 3/26/17


This was the final 89X Time Warp show.

R.I.P.

8 am hour:

New Order "Dream Attack"
Tears For Fears "Pale Shelter"
The Clash "Clampdown"
X "The New World"
Nine Inch Nails "Terrible Lie"
Sneaker Pimps "6 Underground"
The Sundays "Here's Where The Story Ends"
Jane's Addiction "Ocean Size"
The Ramones "I Just Want To Have Something To Do"
Weezer "My Name Is Jonas"
Sloan "The Good In Everyone"
Rain Parade "You Are My Friend"
Echo & the Bunnymen "Bedbugs & Ballyhoo"
U2 "Bullet The Blue Sky (live)"

9 am hour:

Bob Marley "Jamming"
JoBoxers "Just Got Lucky"
Adam & The Ants "Antmusic"
Sugar "Helpless"
Love Spit Love "Am I Wrong"
Yaz "Only You"
Mark Lanegan "She's Not For You"
Ruby "Paraffin"
Björk "Big Time Sensuality"
The Charlatans "The Only One I Know"
Soup Dragons "I'm Free"
Joy Division "Digital"
Iggy Pop "The Passenger"
Nirvana "Aneurysm"

10 am hour:

Dandy Warhols "Not If You Were The Last Junkie On Earth"
Liz Phair "Supernova"
Oasis "Cigarettes & Alcohol"
The Smiths "Cemetry Gates"
The Smiths "Please, Please, Please Let Me Get What I Want"
Depeche Mode "Everything Counts"
David Bowie "Life On Mars?"
Jeff Buckley "Last Goodbye"
R.E.M. "Strange Currencies"
Luna "Chinatown"
The The "Uncertain Smile"
INXS "Mystify"
Elastica "Connection"

11 am hour:

The Stone Roses "I Wanna Be Adored"
Catherine Wheel "Black Metallic"
Cocteau Twins "Bluebeard"
Social Distortion "Ring Of Fire"
Pixies "Debaser"
Roxy Music "Avalon"
Psychedelic Furs "Love My Way"
The Cure "Pictures Of You"
The Verve "On Your Own"
Ride "Leave Them All Behind"

Published March 26th, 2017

Saturday, March 25, 2017

Video: Watch Depeche Mode record release shows


Depeche Mode celebrated the release of Spirit, their 14th studio album, with a couple of live gigs in Europe. The band debuted songs from Spirit and performed a few fan favorites at the events which took place March 17th in Berlin and March 21st in Paris. The professionally shot sets streamed/aired live, and both are now available to view below:

March 17 - Berlin



01. Going Backwards
02. So Much Love
03. Corrupt
04. A Pain That I'm Used To
05. World In My Eyes
06. Cover Me
07. Little Soul
08. Where's The Revolution
09. Barrel Of A Gun
10. Walking In My Shoes
11. Personal Jesus

March 21 - Paris



01 Going Backwards
02 So Much Love
03 Corrupt
04 A Pain That I'm Used To
05 Cover Me
06 Where's The Revolution
07 Walking In My Shoes
08 Personal Jesus

Published March 25th, 2017

Video: Ride's full BBC Music 6 performance


Ride headlined the BBC Music 6 Festival last night in Glasgow. The performance included a few new songs from their forthcoming album Weather Diaries, as well as classics from their catalogue. Ride's full set was professionally shot by the BBC and is available to view here. Also check out other sets from the festival including The Jesus & Mary Chain (here), Sparks (here), and Sleaford Mods (here).

Earlier this week Ride announced details for Weather Diaries, their first album in 20 years. The album will be released June 17th and is available to pre-order.




Published March 25th, 2017

Thursday, March 23, 2017

Ride announce new LP 'Weather Diaries'


On the heels of their first live show of 2017, Ride announced details for their highly anticipated new studio album. The legendary band's first new album in 20 years is titled Weather Diaries and features 11 surely soon-to-be-classic songs. Weather Diaries was produced by Erol Alkan, mixed by Alan Moulder, and arrives June 16th through Wichita Recordings. Pre-orders opened today -- visit Ride's official store to secure yourself a copy on red vinyl, black vinyl, or a limited edition test pressing (only 200 available). The album is also available on CD, digital download, and bundled with other merchandise. Check it all out here and view the tracklisting below.

In addition to today's album news, Ride also debuted the trippy music video for their first single "Charm Assault." The video was created in part by Brian Jonestown Massacre mastermind Anton Newcombe. Enjoy below:



Weather Diaries - Tracklisting

01. Lannoy Point
02. Charm Assault
03. All I Want
04. Home Is A Feeling
05. Weather Diaries
06. Rocket Silver Symphony
07. Lateral Alice
08. Cali
09. Integration Tape
10. Impermanence
11. White Sands

Published March 23rd, 2017

Wednesday, March 22, 2017

Ride play first show of 2017


Ride played their first show of 2017 last night in Belfast, Ireland. During their fifteen song set, they performed fan favorites as well as a handful of songs from their forthcoming record. The show served as a warm up gig for their headline slot at this weekend's sold out BBC Radio 6 Music Festival in Glasgow. Other band scheduled to play include The Jesus & Mary Chain, Depeche Mode, Temples, John Lydon, and more.

Watch explosive fan filmed footage of "Drive Blind" from last night's show along with the setlist below, plus view some AMAZING photos from last night's show (filmed by Shaun Neary) here.



01. Lannoy Point
02. Charm Assault
03. Seagull
04. Like A Daydream
05. Dreams Burn Down
06. Twisterella
07. Unfamiliar
08. Kaleidoscope
09. Home Is A Feeling
10. All I Want
11. Taste
12. Vapour Trail
13. Drive Blind
14. Leave Them All Behind
15. Chelsea Girl

Ride's new album is expected this summer. So far they've released two tracks off the record which are available to stream below.





Published March 22nd, 2017

Tuesday, March 21, 2017

The The reunite with Johnny Marr for 7" RSD single


The The are releasing their first new song in 15 years on April 22nd for Record Store Day. "We Can't Stop What's Coming" will be released as a limited edition single (limited to 2000 copies). Matt Johnson debuted a live version of the haunting and beautiful track during his Radio Cineola broadcast last May, and he since then he's reunited with former The The members including JOHNNY MARR, to record the song for this special etched one-sided 7" single. FYI: this currently appears to be a U.K. only release (not listed on the U.S. Record Store Day website).

"We Can't Stop What's Coming" is also featured in Johnson's documentary The Inertia Variations, which premiered earlier this year in the U.K. and premieres in Denmark later this week. So far a North American premiere has not been announced, however in a posting on The The's website, Johnson states that the documentary is "the first in many related elements of this multi-media project that will be released throughout 2017."

Last year in an interview with Mouth Magazine Johnson revealed he's hoping to release a triple album in 2017 which will include cover versions of The The songs, interviews he conducted during the Radio Cineola broadcasts, and a new song written specifically for the documentary. Obviously plans could have changed since the time of the interview, but many exciting things certainly seem to be on the way, so stay tuned!



Published March 21st, 2017




The Smiths releasing physical 7" single for RSD


Last November, Morrissey announced that plans were in the works for Warner Brothers to release a physical single from The Smiths featuring previously unreleased versions of "The Boy With The Thorn In His Side" and "Rubber Ring."  It turns out the 7" single will be released on April 22nd for Record Store Day and will be limited to only 5000 copies.

Note that the artwork for the single has changed since last November.

This is the scrapped artwork:


This is the new artwork:


The Smiths -- The Boy With The Thorn In His Side 7" tracklisting

Side A: The Boy With The Thorn In His Side (demo mix)
Side B: Rubber Ring (early Drone Studios version)

Meanwhile Morrissey will be hitting the road for his North American tour next week, and in promotion of the tour he consented to an email interview with The Dallas Observer. The legend was asked to comment on the upcoming unauthorized Morrissey biopic England Is Mine, and as you might expect he didn't have any kind words for the project:

"I wasn't approached or consulted by the filmmakers, so I think it's safe to make all the logical assumptions that arise from that. Yikes, I believe, is the common expression."

Read the full interview with Morrissey here.

Morrissey -- North American tour

Mar 29 -- Monterrey, MX @ Teatro Banamex
Mar 31 -- Mexico City, MX @ Sports Palace
Apr 01 -- Guadalajara, MX @ Roxy Festival
Apr 04 -- Puebla, MX @ BUAP Complex
Apr 08 -- Santa Ana, CA @ WWWY Festival
Apr 10 -- Tuscon, AZ @ Fox Tucson Theatre
Apr 12 -- San Antonio, TX @ Tobin Center for the Performing Arts
Apr 14 -- Houston, TX @ White Oak Music Hall
Apr 15 -- Dallas, TX @ Majestic Theatre

Published March 21st, 2017

Monday, March 20, 2017

Matt Johnson's 'The Inertia Variations' premieres; watch trailer


Matt Johnson's documentary The Inertia Variations will be screened March 23rd & March 25th in Denmark. The intimate film was directed by Johnson's friend and ex-partner Johanna St Michaels and chronicles Johnson's Radio Cineola broadcasts along with his struggles with returning to music after a long time away (Johnson had not performed live in years until the May 2016 Radio Cineola broadcast where he debuted a new song). The North American premiere for The Inertia Variations has not yet been announced, however many more good things are on the way for The The fans - Johnson reveals that The Inertia Variations is "the first in many related elements of this multi-media project that will be released throughout 2017." Stay tuned.

Watch the trailer for The Inertia Variations below:



Published March 20th, 2017

Adam Ant announces new U.S. tour


Adam Ant returns to the U.S. in September for Anthems - The Singles tour. The 16 date tour stops off in Detroit at Sound Board (Motor City Casino Hotel) on September 15th. Pre-sales tickets start tomorrow morning at 10am and the general onsale starts Friday, March 24th at 10am. View the tour itinerary below:



Adam Ant -- Anthems - The Singles tour

Sep 06 -- Fort Lauderdale, FL @ Parker Playhouse
Sep 08 -- Clearwater, FL @ Capitol Theatre
Sep 09 -- Orlando, FL @ The Beacham Theatre
Sep 10 -- Jacksonville, FL @ The Florida Theatre
Sep 13 -- New York, NY @ Beacon Theatre
Sep 15 -- Detroit, MI @ Sound Board (Motor City Casino Hotel)
Sep 16 -- Cleveland, OH @ House Of Blues
Sep 17 -- Pittsburgh, PA @ Palace Theatre
Sep 19 -- Baltimore, MD @ Baltimore Soundstage
Sep 20 -- Richmond, VA @ The National
Sep 22 -- Charlotte, NC @ The Fillmore
Sep 23 -- Atlanta, GA @ Variety Playhouse
Sep 24 -- Nashville, TN @ War Memorial Auditorium
Sep 26 -- Denver, CO @ Paramount Theatre
Sep 29 -- San Francisco, CA @ The Masonic
Sep 30 -- Los Angeles, CA @ Greek Theatre

Published March 20th, 2017

The Charlatans announce new LP w/ guests Johnny Marr, Paul Weller, Stephen Morris


The Charlatans announced details for their 13th studio album today. Different Days features 13 songs and includes Stephen Morris of New Order and Pete Salisbury of The Verve on drums (both played on The Charlatans' last album Modern Nature). The album also includes many other incredible guests like Paul Weller, Johnny Marr, Gillian Gilbert, Anton Newcombe, Kurt Wagner, and more. Bring it on!

Different Days arrives May 26th and is available to pre-order now. A variety of signed and limited edition options await you at the band's store including a five-piece 7" vinyl box, clear vinyl LP, test pressing LP, and cassette.

View the tracklisting for Different Days along with the album teaser featuring Tim Burgess, Johnny Marr, Stephen Morris and more guests below via The Independent



Different Days - tracklisting

01. Hey Sunrise
02. Solutions
03. Different Days
04. Future Tense
05. Plastic Machinery
06. The Forgotten One
07. Not Forgotten
08. There Will Be Chances
09. Over Again
10. The Same House
11. Let's Go Together
12. The Setting Sun
13. Spinning Out













Published March 20th, 2017

Saturday, March 18, 2017

New Order + Iggy Pop rock out in NYC


New Order performed at the Tibet House benefit on March 16 at New York City's Carnegie Hall. Just like their previous Tibet House performance in 2014, they were joined by the legendary Iggy Pop. This time around, they performed "Stray Dog" (from New Order's latest album Music Complete) and Joy Division's "She's Lost Control." Video of the performance hasn't made it up on You Tube, however Indie Hoy dug up some clips uploaded by Instagram users. Check it out below:

Meanwhile, New Order announced a live album titled NOMC15. Read about that here.

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Published March 18th, 2017

Thursday, March 16, 2017

Psych/prog/shoegaze: KOYO "Tetrochromat"


Leeds quartet KOYO create a lovely blend of psychedelic, post-rock, prog, shoegaze, and electronic. Imagine mixing Pink Floyd, Tame Impala, Mogwai, Slowdive, and Brian Eno and Swervedriver (particularly "Never Lose That Feeling/Never Learn") -- KOYO would be the delicious result. The band's debut album will be out June 9th, and is preceded by the first enthralling and outstanding single "Tetrochromat," which arrives March 31st. Trip out with the gorgeous video for "Tetrochromat" below and catch up with KOYO here.



Published March 16th, 2017

Erasure debut new single & lyric video


Erasure debuted the first new single from their forthcoming album World Be Gone. "Love You To The Sky" will be released as a digital download tomorrow (March 17th), but is available to stream now. Check out the lyric video for "Love You To The Sky" below:



World Be Gone arrives on May 19th and is available to pre-order here.

Published March 16th, 2017

Michael Stipe performing at Moogfest

Michael Stipe will debut a multi-media presentation at this year's Moogfest. According to festival organizers, Stipe's contribution is "an audiovisual exploration of desire and movement and will feature a rare solo composition from the legend himself." Brooklyn Vegan reports Stipe's installation includes video footage he shot over the years, set to a score he composed using Moog gear.

The annual music, art, and technology event takes place May 18th through 21st in Durham, North Carolina and also features 808 State, Derrick May, Survive, Animal Collective, and more. Find out more about Moogfest here.

Stipe's last public (headline) performance took place last year at the David Bowie tribute concert in New York City. He also performed with Patti Smith at the 20th anniversary Democracy Now concert as well as at Smith's birthday concert in December.





Published March 16th, 2017

Depeche Mode -- Live stream event 3/17


Depeche Mode release their 14th studio album Spirit tomorrow (March 17th). In celebration of the release, Depeche Mode will be premiering tracks from the album live tomorrow in Berlin. The event will stream live worldwide starting at 8pm CET/3pm ET. Watch the live stream here.



Published March 16th, 2017


Tuesday, March 14, 2017

Steve Severin releases new LP; celebrates The Ides of March with free download


Steve Severin, co-founder of Siouxsie & the Banshees, is releasing a new ambient album titled The Vril Harmonies. The six track album will be released physically in April, but the digital version premiered this week and is available to download now directly from Bandcamp.



Meanwhile Severin has also composed a 23 minute tribute to Coil's Peter Christopherson & Jhon Balance and Coil collaborator Ark Todd (Ian Johnstone) titled "23 Wounds Of Julius Caesar." The composition will be released as a free/name-your-own-price download on March 15th, but it will only be available for 23 hours:

"At 23 minutes into The Ides of March (15th.) I shall make available for download my 23 minute track: - 23 Wounds Of Julius Caesar. It will be available as a free download (pay if you wish) for 23 hours then it will disappear for a year. Dedicated to the memory of Ark Todd, Jhon Balance & Peter Christopherson."

For more info on Severin and his musical projects, catch up with him on Bandcamp and Facebook.

Published March 14th, 2017

R.I.P. John Lever, drummer of The Chameleons


John Lever, drummer of the Chameleons died yesterday morning at the age of 56. His wife Lisa broke the news, revealing Lever died in his sleep yesterday after battling an undisclosed illness.

"It's with the heaviest of hearts that I have to inform you that John Lever passed away peacefully in his sleep this morning after a short illness. Me, his sister Angela, Mum, Dad & the rest of his family would like to thank you all for your love & support over the last couple of weeks.
Love and sloppy stuff always Lisa xxx"

Lever was a founding member of the Chameleons and played with the band until they broke up in 1987. He also was a member of Chameleons-related projects The Sun & The Moon, Red-Sided Garter Snakes, and Chameleons Vox.

Read a beautiful tribute to Lever (and the Chameleons) here.



Published March 14th, 2017

Monday, March 13, 2017

New Order announce live LP 'NOMC 15'


New Order announced details today for a live record titled NOMC15 (New Order Music Complete 15). The 18 track album was captured live at Brixton Academy on November 2015 and will be released May 26th on double CD, triple clear LP, and as a digital album download. View the tracklisting below and check out the pre-order options here.

New Order recently announced a Manchester residency. Details on that are posted here.

NOMC 15 tracklisting

01) Singularity
02) Ceremony
03) Crystal
04) 5 8 6
05) Restless
06) Lonesome Tonight
07) Your Silent Face
08) Tutti Frutti
09) People on the High Line (feat. La Roux)
10) Bizarre Love Triangle
11) Waiting for the Sirens’ Call
12) Plastic
13) The Perfect Kiss
14) True Faith
15) Temptation
16) Atmosphere
17) Love Will Tear Us Apart
18) Blue Monday

Published March 13th, 2017

Sunday, March 12, 2017

The Velvet Underground & Nico turns 50


The Velvet Underground's seminal debut album The Velvet Underground & Nico was released 50 years ago today. What can be said about this legendary album that hasn't already been covered a zillion times in a zillion other places? Sure, it has all been said before.

Still, it's important to pay tribute to this iconic album, as it is widely considered to be one of the most influential recordings of all time. Though very few copies were sold after its initial release (considered a colossal failure at the time), as the famous saying goes, those who did buy a copy went on to form bands in various sub-sets of alternative including underground, experimental, punk, post-punk, psychedelic, garage rock, boho, and more. Artists inspired by The Velvet Underground & Nico include David Bowie, R.E.M., Jonathan Richman & the Modern Lovers, Sex Pistols, Joy Division, New Order, Roxy Music, Morrissey, Johnny Marr, Echo & the Bunnymen, Nick Cave, Talking Heads, Sonic Youth, U2, Nirvana, Radiohead, Garbage, Galaxie 500, Luna and soooooo many more.

Fifty years on, its music, art, and message still speaks to generations young and old. Happy Golden anniversary! Viva las Velvets!



Published March 12th, 2017

Saturday, March 11, 2017

Peter Murphy announces 15 date residency


Hot off the release of his new live album Bare-Boned and Sacred, Peter Murphy announced a 15 date residency at The Chapel in San Francisco. Each night Murphy will play one of his solo albums in full along with other material. Murphy reveals he's excited to dust off some rarely performed material:

"I have always wanted to do a residency and while I was performing at The Chapel on the "Stripped" tour last year, I felt like this was the perfect venue and that the time to do this was now. There are a lot of songs on these albums that I haven’t sung in years. This is a rare chance for fans to see them performed live"

Tickets for all of the shows go on sale Monday, March 13th at 3pm ET (12:00pm PST). View the residency schedule below and stream Bare-Boned and Sacred in full below or head to Spotify:



Peter Murphy - The Chapel residency

Jun 20 - Should The World Fail To Fall Apart
Jun 21 - Should The World Fail To Fall Apart
Jun 22 - Love Hysteria
Jun 23 - Love Hysteria
Jun 26 - Deep
Jun 29 - Deep
Jun 30 - Holy Smoke
Jul 01 - Cascade
Jul 03 - Cascade
Jul 06 - Dust
Jul 07 - Dust
Jul 08 - Ninth
Jul 11 - Stripped
Jul 13 - TBA
Jul 14 - TBA

Published March 11th, 2017

Friday, March 10, 2017

New Order announce mega-synthed out shows


New Order are playing a series of unique synthed-out shows in Manchester this summer. The legendary band will be backed by a 12 person synthesizer ensemble from the Royal Northern College of Music. Composer Joe Duddell is conducting and providing the orchestrations at the six show series which begins June 29th at the Old Grenada Studios in Manchester. More details on the event are posted here.

Posted March 10th, 2017

Thursday, March 9, 2017

U2 announces 'The Joshua Tree' 30th anniversary expanded sets


U2 announced details today for the 30th anniversary reissue of The Joshua Tree. Several reissue editions be released, including a 7 LP Super Deluxe Box Set, 4 CD Super Deluxe Set, and 2 CD Deluxe set. The expanded versions include live material recorded during The Joshua Tree tour in 1987, b-sides/outtakes from the original singles, and brand new remixes by Daniel Lanois, Brian Eno, Steve Lillywhite, Flood, and more. All of the 30th anniversary editions will be released June 2nd.

View the tracklisting for the 4CD super deluxe edition below. View all the options and pre-order from the U2 store.

CD 1 - The Joshua Tree double album

Where The Streets Have No Name
I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For
With Or Without You
Bullet The Blue Sky
Running To Stand Still
Red Hill Mining Town
In God's Country
Trip Through Your Wires
One Tree Hill
Exit
Mothers Of The Disappeared

CD2 – The Joshua Tree Live at Madison Square Garden 1987

Where The Streets Have No Name
I Will Follow
Trip Through Your Wires
I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For
MLK
Bullet The Blue Sky
Running To Stand Still
In God's Country
Sunday Bloody Sunday
Exit
October
New Year's Day
Pride (In The Name Of Love)
With Or Without You
Party Girl
I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For
"40"

CD3 - The Joshua Tree Remixes

One Tree Hill (St Francis Hotel Remix)
Bullet The Blue Sky (Jacknife Lee Remix)
Running To Stand Still (Daniel Lanois Remix)
Red Hill Mining Town (Steve Lillywhite 2017 Mix)
With Or Without You (Daniel Lanois Remix)
Where The Streets Have No Name (Flood Remix)

CD4 - The Joshua Tree B-Sides & Outtakes

Luminous Times (Hold On To Love)
Walk To The Water
Spanish Eyes
Deep In The Heart
Silver And Gold
Sweetest Thing
Race Against Time
I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For (Lillywhite Alternative Mix '87)
One Tree Hill Reprise (Brian Eno 2017 Mix)
Silver and Gold
Beautiful Ghost/Introduction To Songs Of Experience
Wave Of Sorrow (Birdland)
Desert Of Our Love
Rise Up
Drunk Chicken/America

Published March 9th, 2017

Wednesday, March 8, 2017

Depeche Mode: live stream tonight!


Tonight Depeche Mode (Dave Gahan, Martin Gore, and Andrew Fletcher) will be discussing their new album Spirit with Jon Pareles of the New York Times. The interview will stream live worldwide starting at 7pm ET. Watch the live stream here.

UPDATE: The interview was incredible -- Martin, Dave, and Andy shared stories about their favorite Depeche Mode songs, sampling, touring, songwriting, and more. Watch the archive below:



While you're waiting for the interview to begin, check out a behind the scenes look at the "Where's The Revolution" music video:



Depeche Mode release their 14th studio album Spirit on March 17th. Tickets for the North American leg of the Global Spirit tour go on sale Friday, March 10th. Pre-sales are going on now.

Depeche Mode -- North American tour

Aug 23 -- Salt Lake City, UT @ USANA Amphitheatre
Aug 25 -- Denver, CO @ Pepsi Center
Aug 27 -- Clarkston, MI @ DTE Energy Music Theatre
Aug 30 -- Chicago, IL @ Hollywood Casino Amphitheatre
Sep 01 -- Uncasville, CT @ Mohegan Sun Arena
Sep 03 -- Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre
Sep 05 -- Montreal, QC @ Centre Bell
Sep 07 -- Washington, DC @ Verizon Center
Sep 09 -- New York, NY @ Madison Square Garden
Sep 11 -- New York, NY @ Madison Square Garden
Sep 13 -- Tampa, FL @ Midflorida Credit Union Amphitheatre
Sep 15 -- Miami, FL @ American Airlines Arena
Sep 18 -- Nashville, TN @ Ascend Amphitheater
Sep 20 -- Austin, TX @ Austin360 Amphitheatre
Sep 22 -- Dallas, TX @ Starplex Pavilion
Sep 24 -- Houston, TX @ Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion
Sep 27 -- Phoenix, AZ 2 AK-Chin Pavilion
Sep 30 -- Las Vegas, NV @ T-Mobile Arena
Oct 02 -- Santa Barbara, CA @ Santa Barbara County Bowl
Oct 06 -- San Diego, CA @ Mattress Firm Amphitheatre
Oct 08 -- San Jose, CA @ SAP Center
Oct 10 -- Oakland, CA @ Oracle Arena
Oct 12 -- Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl
Oct 14 -- Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl
Oct 21 -- Seattle, WA @ KeyArena
Oct 23 -- Portland, OR @ Moda Center
Oct 25 -- Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena
Oct 27 -- Edmonton, AB @ Rogers Place

Published March 8th, 2017

Bloody Knives pulverize hearts & skulls with "The Descent"


Hot off the heels of 2016's brilliant I Will Cut Your Heart Out For This, Austin's noise-gaze heroes Bloody Knives are back with a blistering new single. "The Descent" is the ultimate propulsive industrial bloodbath nightmare, drilling into skulls and pounding into hearts with reckless abandon. Highly recommended for fans of old school industrial. Be warned: this immense and intense balls out single is NOT for the weak of heart.



"The Descent" is the first single from Bloody Knives' forthcoming album White Light Black Moon (release date TBA). The single was released this week as an extremely limited edition blood-red liquid filled 7" single. Alas, only 20 copies were created and have already sold out, however "The Descent" is available as a digital download from Saint Marie Records here and you can get a glimpse of the limited edition 45 in the video below.



Published March 8th, 2017

Afghan Whigs announce 'In Spades' & share new video


Afghan Whigs return with a new studio album titled In Spades on May 5th. The 10 track album has been described as "dark" and "spooky" by leader Greg Dulli. He reveals:

"I like that it's veiled. It's not a concept album per se, but as I began to assemble it, I saw an arc and followed it. To me it's about memory – in particular, how quickly life and memory can blur together."

Afghan Whigs debuted the video for "Demon In Profile" today. The track made its live debut last year and serves as the first single from In Spades. Check it out below:



Pre-order In Spades from Amazon and Sub Pop.

Published March 8th, 2017

Tuesday, March 7, 2017

Mark Lanegan Band stir up epic "Beehive"


Mark Lanegan announced the release of his new album Gargoyle and premiered the first single "Nocturne" last month. This week Lanegan shared a triumphant and epic new single titled "Beehive" that will blow you away. Revel in the utter magnificence below.



Gargoyle arrives April 28th and is available to pre-order through Amazon and Heavenly Recordings.



Published March 7th, 2017

Last Leaf Down release brilliant new single


Switzerland's Last Leaf Down have been expertly meshing ethereal, shoegaze, and post-rock sounds for over 10 years. The brilliance continues on the quartet's highly anticipated new album Bright Wide Colder, which arrives on March 31st. The band just debuted a new single/video title "Ghost Trails" and it is EVERYTHING. Prepare for greatness:



Pre-order Bright Wide Colder from iTunes, Amazon, or Lifeforce Records

Published March 7th, 2017

Morrissey -- a new interview


Morrissey is scheduled to hit the road later this month for a handful of tour dates in North America. The Houston Press managed to talk Mozzer into an interview and as you already know, Morrissey interviews never disappoint. The legend poked fun about his recent visit to the BMG offices in London calling it "fake news," claimed his main interest in life is the construction of songs, and revealed the song he would re-record if he had the chance was a classic from The Smiths:

"There is a Smiths song I loved called "I Want the One I Can't Have," but the recorded vocal was terrible, and if not for the vocal I think it could have been a big hit. It's shocking when you're the one who lets the team down."

Read the full interview with Morrissey here.

Morrissey -- North American tour

Mar 29 -- Monterrey, MX @ Teatro Banamex
Mar 31 -- Mexico City, MX @ Sports Palace
Apr 01 -- Guadalajara, MX @ Roxy Festival
Apr 04 -- Puebla, MX @ BUAP Complex
Apr 08 -- Santa Ana, CA @ WWWY Festival
Apr 10 -- Tuscon, AZ @ Fox Tucson Theatre
Apr 12 -- San Antonio, TX @ Tobin Center for the Performing Arts
Apr 14 -- Houston, TX @ White Oak Music Hall
Apr 15 -- Dallas, TX @ Majestic Theatre

Published March 7th, 2017

Thursday, March 2, 2017

Wire debut more brilliance from 'Silver/Lead'


Over forty years into their career, post-punk legends Wire continue to amaze and delight. This week the band previewed another scintillating new song from the forthcoming album Silver/Lead titled "Diamonds And Cups." Stream in full below. Silver/Lead is out March 31st and is available to pre-order here.





Published March 2nd, 2017

Lou Reed's archives heading to New York Public Library


Lou Reed's personal archive has been acquired by the New York Public Library for the Performing Arts. The announcement was made today, on what would have been his 75th birthday, by Laurie Anderson. The massive archive reportedly contains over 600 hours of audio and video including demos, studio recordings and live recordings; poetry, photographs, and Reed's personal record collection are also part of the collection. The archive is expected to be ready for viewing in 2018. Read the full report on the archive here.

The Velvet Underground's supremely influential album The Velvet Underground & Nico celebrates its 50th anniversary next week.



Published March 2nd, 2017

Video: Depeche Mode play Tonight Show


Depeche Mode appeared on the Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon last night and performed their new single "Where's The Revolution." The legendary band effortlessly proved they're still cool AF. Enjoy below:



Depeche Mode hit the road for the North American leg of the Global Spirit tour in August. The fan pre-sale kicks off Monday, March 6th. Fans have until Saturday, March 4th at 11:59pm to register to secure a place in line for the pre-sale and "improve" their place in line by spreading the word on social media. Fans will receive a pre-order code and instructions on Sunday, March 5th. For all the details on the fan pre-sale head here.

Other pre-sales kick off on March 7th, and the general onsale is Friday, March 10th.

Depeche Mode return with their 14th studio album Spirit on March 17th. A remix album featuring 4 additional mixes of the new single "Where's The Revolution" will be released on March 3rd.

Depeche Mode will be playing an exclusive concert in Berlin on March 17th to celebrate the release of Spirit. The concert is schedule to stream live globally from Berlin. Exact times/details are still TBA, but some info is posted here.

Depeche Mode -- North American tour

Aug 23 -- Salt Lake City, UT @ USANA Amphitheatre
Aug 25 -- Denver, CO @ Pepsi Center
Aug 27 -- Clarkston, MI @ DTE Energy Music Theatre
Aug 30 -- Chicago, IL @ Hollywood Casino Amphitheatre
Sep 01 -- Uncasville, CT @ Mohegan Sun Arena
Sep 03 -- Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre
Sep 05 -- Montreal, QC @ Centre Bell
Sep 07 -- Washington, DC @ Verizon Center
Sep 09 -- New York, NY @ Madison Square Garden
Sep 11 -- New York, NY @ Madison Square Garden
Sep 13 -- Tampa, FL @ Midflorida Credit Union Amphitheatre
Sep 15 -- Miami, FL @ American Airlines Arena
Sep 18 -- Nashville, TN @ Ascend Amphitheater
Sep 20 -- Austin, TX @ Austin360 Amphitheatre
Sep 22 -- Dallas, TX @ Starplex Pavilion
Sep 24 -- Houston, TX @ Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion
Sep 27 -- Phoenix, AZ 2 AK-Chin Pavilion
Sep 30 -- Las Vegas, NV @ T-Mobile Arena
Oct 02 -- Santa Barbara, CA @ Santa Barbara County Bowl
Oct 06 -- San Diego, CA @ Mattress Firm Amphitheatre
Oct 08 -- San Jose, CA @ SAP Center
Oct 10 -- Oakland, CA @ Oracle Arena
Oct 12 -- Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl
Oct 14 -- Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl
Oct 21 -- Seattle, WA @ KeyArena
Oct 23 -- Portland, OR @ Moda Center
Oct 25 -- Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena
Oct 27 -- Edmonton, AB @ Rogers Place

Published March 2nd, 2017