04 Jul
Animals of Iraq

Since we’re all celebrating Independence Day today, it’s time we took a moment to remember the men, women…and animals in Iraq. Bust out your crayons and markers kids, Williamsburg illustrator Nick Manske recently published his Animals of Iraq coloring book. The book juxtaposes the innocence of a children’s coloring book, destructive scenes of […]
03 Jul
Video: Apse “The Crowned” + Spirit Out July 7th

Back in March, I mentioned that New England-based post-rock band, Apse, would be re-releasing their 2006 gem, Spirit, on ATP Recordings later this year and had plans to tour the UK. Fast forward to three months later and the band has played ATP vs. Pitchfork, finished their tour, and has three U.S. dates scheduled. […]
02 Jul
Skip James: 1931 Sessions (Mississippi Records)

Listening to the eighteen surviving tracks from Skip James’ 1931 recording sessions in Grafton, Wisconsin give a sense of nostalgia. Clicks, hisses, and pops of muffled seventy-year old vinyl along with James’ frail falsetto create an evocative, otherworldly atmosphere highlighted by his unique self-invented three-finger picking style. A mixture of delta and piedmont […]
02 Jul
FRICTION Recap | 6.29.08 w/ Crystal Stilts + Tickley Feather

Thanks to everyone who made it out to FRICTION at Cake Shop on Sunday night. Many thanks to Crystal Stilts, Tickley Feather, Rings, PWRFL Power, and Anicet DJ for putting on such a great show. We loved the vibe of the night and venue, so keep an eye out for future shows at […]
01 Jul
Trackback | The Verlaines

The Verlaines made their recorded debut on Side 2, EP 2 of New Zealand’s seminal Dunedin Double EP in 1982. The compilation featured three other Dunedin, NZ groups including The Chills, The Stones, and Sneaky Feelings, each getting their own side of a 12”. Dunedin Double marked the first compilation released by […]
30 Jun
FRICTION @ Mercury Lounge w/ Crystal Antlers, Chairlift, and Religious Knives | 7.8.08

GET HYPE! Long Beach California’s Crystal Antlers bring their pummeling live show to the East Coast for this installment of FRICTION at The Mercury Lounge on July 8th. With an explosive build-up of noise and melody blended with raw vocals and twisting riffs, this quintet has mastered the art of thrash. Brooklyn synthfolk […]
27 Jun
FRICTION Sunday! Crystal Stilts, Tickley Feather, PWRFL Power, Rings

With a lineup that’s a little bit Philly and a lot of New York, FRICTION returns to its roots in Manhattan with a cast of “local” acts this Sunday at Cake Shop. Crystal Stilts, who have recently been buzzing in NYC, bring their unique brand of of moody, catchy, and upbeat surf-inspired tunes to […]