Melt Your Face Off

"So don't think that I'm pushing you away/When you're the one that I've kept closest..."

2010-04-27T08:44:00.004-04:00

Living in Chicago I am very fortunate to have many amazing bands come play live at one of the many venues in the city. And I know I am very spoiled that if I miss a band they will come back in 6 months to a year. I also had this luxury in DC and NYC.

The xx, http://www.thexx.info/, have been to Chicago I think at least two times since their debut album, xx, was released last year. And on April 8th they would be back again headlining and then a week later, coming back opening for Hot Chip at The Riv. I missed them their previous times here, but I did catch them on the 8th at Lincoln Hall, the city’s newest venue owned by the same guys who own Schuba’s. I had been to Lincoln Hall in October to see a local band do their Halloween show and the space was beautiful. So I was pretty excited to go back.

I got there a little bit on the early side since it was a sold out show (in fact they added an early show in the evening a few weeks later, which also sold out) and I was going by myself, and I wanted to secure a good spot after scoping out the place. When the doors opened I started out on the floor but realized the balcony area (with chairs) would be a better bet. The xx plays such chill music I didn’t really need to be in the mix of things.

The opening band was called jj, a Swedish band whose lead singer, Elin, was taking my roommate Jo’s look but not doing it justice: http://www.secretlycanadian.com/artist.php?name=jj. Elin had a very pretty voice and at first she was just solo on stage singing away and playing the guitar. The lyrics we not very good though. And I am not sure if it is because they wrote them in English or maybe things got lost in translation. But most of the songs were about getting high, and it came across like a middle school kid trying to appear cool when he uses the work “f*ck,.” At some point the other member of the band, Joakim, came out and took over guitar duties. From time to time he would whisper something in Elin’s ear as she sang. They also had a screen that would show them roaming around a beach or performing live. Then they would also show nature shots or focus on an Italian soccer player. Very random. They were not so much my thing, but maybe because they also use the same letter twice for a band name people thought they would be a good opener for The xx.

When The xx took the stage the venue was full. Considering they only have one album and it clocks in at around 39 minutes (on a good day), I knew the show was going to be short and that they would probably play all 11 tracks. I was correct. I enjoyed seeing them live, but to be honest it wasn’t spectacular. They played most of the songs in either a slower (if you can believe it) or a faster tempo. I was able to do a little dancing while in my seat, but I knew it wasn’t going to be a full on dance party…even though secretly I wished it were.

Visually they used a lot of lights that often drowned them out or blinded us in the audience. It helped create an ambient, dream like mood which matches well with their music. They had bright white Xs on their keyboard/synth/DJ area and those stood out from time to time and were really cool.

I am not sure how they were when they opened for Hot Chip, but I imagine they were the same. They will also be back in Chicago in August for Lollapalooza. Which will be interesting. I wonder how their sound will carry at an outdoor festival.

I wouldn’t rush out to go see The xx live again, but I wouldn’t be disappointed either. Maybe as they keep touring and release another album their live shows will change. I love their debut album though and I will continue listening to it in the meantime.

xoxo,
Stefania

P.S. Here are some videos people took of the show. Even though they aren’t the best you can get an idea of what it was like.

“Basic Space”

“Crystalized” (my favorite song)

“VCR”

“Night Time” (on “Later…with Jools Holland” just so you can see a clear live performance)

"Brooklyn, Brooklyn take me in..."

2010-03-30T01:45:00.001-04:00

So my first experience seeing The Avett Brothers, http://www.theavettbrothers.com/us/home, live came during the Austin City Limits Festival last October, in fact they were the first act I saw on Friday at the festival. I knew of the Avetts through KEXP and was really digging on their new single, “I and Love and You.” While watching them at ACL I really liked their sound, their lyrics, and what they were doing on stage. So after I got back I did so more research and listening of this North Carolina band.

Around November, my new friend Michael (who had grown up with the Avetts) asked if I would be interested in seeing them when they came to town March 7th. I was like, “Sure!” So after the holidays and then the celebration that was my birthday the show date finally arrived. They were playing at the House of Blues.

The opening band was called The Low Anthem, http://www.lowanthem.com/, and they were pretty good. The members were multi-instrumentalists and would shift what they were playing depending on the song, however they kept the same singer (Ben Knox Miller) with the other members harmonizing or singing backing vocals. It was rustic, folksy, slow paced, and was a good choice for an opening band. I think my favorite song was, “Sally, Where'd You Get Your Liquor From?” (a Reverend Gary Davis cover):

When The Avett Brothers took the stage the crowd was roarin’ to go. It was obvious that the audience were fans and sand and danced to every song. Their set list was as follows:
1. The Fall
2. Slight Figure of Speech
3. The Lowering
4. Shame
5. Head Full of Doubt/Road Full of Promise

6. January Wedding

7. Colorshow
8. Laundry Room
9. Paranoia in Bb Major
10. The Ballad of Love and Hate
11. Love Like the Movies
12. Go to Sleep

13. Kick Drum Heart
14. I and Love and You

15. Matrimony
16. Travelin' Song
17. Where Have All the Average People Gone (Roger Miller cover)
18. Murder in the City
(One of my all time favorite lyrics and has me think about how much I love my siblings: “Always remember there was nothing worth sharing/Like the love that let us share our name”)
19. Pretty Girl from Chile
Encore:
20. Yardsale
21. Salvation Song
22. November Blue
(So apparently the Chicago crowd was not as video happy as the Milwaukee or Minneapolis crowds. Since they did play those cities right before Chicago it was pretty much the same setlists. I know they aren’t from the show I saw, but I really wanted you all to experience what they are like live).

From the small taste I got from ACL, I was happy that I got to see them on stage and on their own. They are a really high energy band and really rock it out on things like the banjo. I would definitely see them again and I really look forward to the next time they are in town.

xoxo,
Stefania

"I’m your biggest fan/I’ll follow you until you love me..."

2010-02-27T18:53:00.000-05:00

In November my friend, Kate, in Dallas sent me a Facebook message asking if I wanted to join her and her cousin, Victoria, to see Lady Gaga in January at the Chicago Theater. Even though I had not gone gaga for Gaga yet, I was like, “Sure!” I mean spending time with some out of town friends from home and go see live music is a no brainer for me.

Kate is probably the biggest Gaga fan and up until tickets were secured she was bouncing off the walls and constant communication between us was going on. My friend Samantha is also a huge Gaga fan so I sent her a message asking if she wanted to come spend the weekend with me (she lives in Okla.) and see the show. She was in.

When I got the tickets the concert gods were smiling down upon me, because for the 3 nights she had scheduled I ended up getting 5 tickets (got on in case another person wanted to go) for the final night, and all three shows had sold out in under a minute. Woweee zowee!

Time passed and we were all jazzed about the show. However, our bubble burst, a day after Christmas, when we found out she had cancelled her Chicago Theater venue and was moving to the Rosemont Theater, thus everyone getting their tickets cancelled and refunded. The silver lining was those who had tickets were able to purchase the same number for the same date in a pre-sale. We again planned and plotted strategically and were able to secure our 5 tickets. Whew!

When Sunday, January 10th finally got here we were all super excited. We got all gussied up in our best sassy, sexy Gaga inspired duds and headed over to the venue. Kate’s friend Pearson also joined us and he, like Kate, is a massive Gaga fan. After grabbing a few drinks, taking promotional photos we decided to take our seats. We missed the opening-opening act, Semi Precious Weapons, but in all honesty it was okay. They were the band that had opened for Ladyhawke and I didn’t really care for them then so I wasn’t interested in seeing them now.

The opening act was a guy named Jason Derülo, who was kinda like a watered down Usher type guy combined with the appeal of one of those Disney acts. However, he was kinda obnoxious and a bit inappropriate. Not that I’m some prude, but he would say things like, “Last time I was in Chicago I had a one night stand and it was awesome!” And people would cheer, especially the five 14 year olds who were sitting behind me. I was like, “You people are morons! Don’t cheer for a one night stand! What a douche!” But no one cared and he continued on with his music about finding the right girl and being ready for sexy time. Ug. So awful.

Even though I was not a Gaga superfan before the show, I liked the songs I had heard and I knew I would see a good show. Her outlandish costumes and persona would guarantee it. Also, the amount of crazed glittered up fans meant there was going to be an awesome energy throughout the show. And guess what? I was right. The show was AMAZING and completely converted me into this crazed Gaga fan.

Costume changes, dancers, interesting lighting and stage picture, pre-recorded video pieces…everything but the kitchen sink. Every detail was well thought out and precise. Very similar to when I saw Madonna, and by that I mean the amount of time, effort, and energy to put into this show was big time. Gaga was very good about interacting with the crowd. Sharing stories of meeting her “Little Monsters” (the names for her fans) and even gave us a hand gesture to show our solidarity to one another. At one point she laid down on the stage and went into the whole “Clap for Tinkerbell if you want her to live” bit until the applause was roaring from the crowd and she stood up and went into song.

Even though I didn’t know the names to most of the songs she did play the ones I knew. Her set list, I’m guessing, due to the flashy show doesn’t vary. But I really don’t think people in that crowd cared. We all ate up ever last bite.

1. Dance in the Dark
2. Just Dance
3. LoveGame
4. Alejandro
5. Monster
6. Teeth

7. Speechless
8. Poker Face (on piano)
9. The Fame
10. Money Honey
11. Beautiful, Dirty, Rich
12. Boys Boys Boys
13. Poker Face

14. Paparazzi
Encore:
15. Eh, Eh (Nothing Else I Can Say)
16. Bad Romance

I would definitely go to a Lady Gaga show again. I had so much fun and she entertained us from start to finish.

xoxo,
Stefania

P.S. For more information about this tour, The Monster Ball Tour, Wikipedia has a good write up: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Monster_Ball_Tour

P.S.S. Some fun photos:

This guy had made razor blade glasses (how he got them in the venue, I’ll never know) a la the “Bad Romance” video

Samantha and I in the Monster Ball

Me channeling Gaga

Best of 2009

2010-01-31T13:50:00.001-05:00

So after getting over my laziness and going over the mental list I had come up with for my favorite albums of 2009, it is with great pleasure I announce them now!

13) Junior—Röyksopp
Upbeat, dancey, and musical-start studded guest vocalists (Robyn, Lykke Li, and Karen Dreijer Andersson) all describe this album from this Norwegian electronic group. Favorite tracks: “Happy Up Here,” “The Girl and the Robot,” “This Must Be It,” and “Tricky Tricky.”

12) Miike Snow—Miike Snow
Debut album from this Swedish trio, none who are named Miike or Mike for that matter. Heard the song “Animal” and fell in love immediately. The rest of the album is just as solid. Favorite tracks: “Animal,” “Burial,” and “Song For No One.”

11) Kingdom Of Rust—Doves
I always have and will always love this Manchester group. Their 4th album is no exception. Beautiful, moving, and thoughtful. Favorite tracks “Jetstream,” “Kingdom of Rust,” and “Spellbound” (one of the greatest love songs…ever).

10) A Brief History Of Love—The Big Pink
Debut album from this London group of young lads. Milo Cordell says of the album, “Every song is a love song to some degree, about every different aspect of love... The good, the bad, the boring, the exciting, the dreams, the nightmares, the whole thing.” Young, fresh, and addictive. Favorite tracks “Too Young to Love,” “Dominoes,” “Velvet,” and “A Brief History of Love.”

9) Tonight: Franz Ferdinand—Franz Ferdinand
What if you wrote an album that described a night of partying followed by the morning after? This is what Scottish band Franz Ferdinand does on their 3rd album. Cheeky, fun, introspective and dancey. Favorite tracks “No You Girls,” “Twilight Omens,” “What She Came For,” and “Katherine Kiss Me.”

8) Julian Plenti Is... Skyscraper—Julian Plenti
First solo album from Interpol lead singer, Paul Banks. I was unsure of this album at first but after a few listens was hooked. Paul’s voice is one of my favorites and it’s hard not to get on board. Favorite tracks “Games For Days,” “Skyscraper,” “On the Esplanade,” and “Only if You Run.”

7) The Twilight Saga: New Moon—Various Artists (soundtrack)
I love pretty much every artist on this soundtrack so it is no surprise that they produced amazing tracks for this tween franchise’s second film. I hate that it is a part of Twilight history, but as long as I don’t know how the songs were used for certain plot lines I can sleep easy. Favorite tracks “Roslyn,” “Slow Life,” “Done All Wrong,” and “Meet Me on the Equinox.”

6) Horehound—The Dead Weather
Combine Jack White and Alison Mosshart and then throw in talent from Dean Fertita and Jack Lawrence and you have yourself a side project super group that blows minds. My favorite rock album of 2009 left me feeling like I wanted to punch someone or make out with them…or both. Favorite tracks “Hang You From the Heavens,” “Treat Me Like Your Mother,” and “Bone House.”

5) It’s Blitz!—Yeah Yeah Yeahs
Third album from this NYC trio made the start of 2009 and its winter blahs bearable. A dance party sound mixed in with some slower tracks made me love this album. It may not have been too huge of a departure from their previous two albums and EP, but I don’t care. Why fix something that ain’t broke? The deluxe edition of the album also had four of the tracks acoustic. WIN. Favorite tracks “Zero,” “Soft Shock,” and “Hysteric.”

4) xx—The xx
Debut album from this London group came out of left field for me and hit me like a ton of bricks. Beautiful, haunting, and sexy with a bit of electro thrown in for good measure. You just want to put on this album and have a make out session. Favorite tracks “Crystalised,” “Heart Skipped a Beat,” “Night Time,” and “Basic Space.”

3) Middle Cyclone—Neko Case
Seventh album from this red headed alt-country siren that continues her wonderful storytelling of love, loss, needing to flee her hometown, and taking care of mother earth (among other things) from a unique perspective and sometimes without happy endings. Favorite tracks “This Tornado Love You,” “People Gotta A Lotta Nerve,” “Middle Cyclone,” and “Prison Girls.”

2) The Hazards Of Love—The Decemberists
The 5th Album from this Portland band is a rock opera. One that follows the story of two lovers and a jealous queen mother from start to tragic finish. Guests Shara Worden and Becky Stark fill in as lover and queen while Colin wears two hats of lover and narrator. The rest of the band does what they do best by supporting with grand sounds and choruses and backing vocals. Amazing. Favorite tracks, “Won't Want For Love (Margaret In The Taiga),” “The Wanting Comes In Waves/Repaid,” “The Hazards Of Love 3 (Revenge!),” and “The Hazards Of Love 4 (The Drowned).”

1) Veckatimest—Grizzly Bear
I always liked this Brooklyn based band, but it wasn’t until their 3rd album did I fall absolutely head over heels in love with them. Dreamy, beautiful, and moving. I am transported to a bygone era even though the modernity is peaking through. Favorite tracks “Southern Point,” “Two Weeks,” “Cheerleader,” “While You Wait for the Others,” and “Foreground.”

"And you will make it, but only if you run..."

2009-12-16T02:00:00.001-05:00

One of my favorite albums this year comes from Julian Plenti (the solo project of Paul Banks from Interpol). I was super excited when I found out he was going on tour and playing at the Metro. So the Saturday after Thanksgiving (Nov. 21st) I made my way to the venue for what I was hoping to be an amazing show.

It was okay. In fact, after I left, I had this feeling of “What just happened? That was not what I was expecting.” Maybe it’s because I adore Interpol so much I was still expecting Paul to be the same. Maybe it was the backing band? I know it is unfair for me to do that to him, and expect the same performance as he does with Interpol, but his voice is so distinctive and tied to that band it is hard to picture him anywhere else.

The set he played was not too surprising since there is only one album. The covers were kind of surprising. The Pixies had just played Chicago a few days before so maybe that’s why he played one of their songs? The America cover caught me completely off guard.

1. “Mythsizer”
2. “Fly As You Might”
3. Fun That We Have
4. “No Chance Survival”
5. “Unwind”
6. “Girl on the Sporting News”
7. “Madrid Song”
8. “Only If You Run”
9. “On the Esplanade”
10. “Into The White” (Pixies cover)
11. “Skyscraper”
12. “Goodbye Toronto” (“Let It Snow” intro)

Encore:
13. “H”
14. “Horse With No Name” (America cover)

15. “Games for Days”

The next day I still felt odd about the whole thing. So I wrote Paul a letter:

Dear Paul Banks,
Although I love your Julian Plenti album, I do not like your Julian Plenti persona. Please stop doing it in public. I need you in a suit. I need you with shaggier hair. I need you not to have a thin pervy mustache. I need you not to “banter.” I think that was the most I have heard you talk on stage. Stop. Please get back to the guys and work on a new Interpol album.

I need Sam behind the drums (not some blond Butch Vig look-a-like), I need Daniel to be at guitar (not some guy in a t-shirt with the sleeves ripped off of it), and I need Carlos playing bass with his Deadwood/Gestapo look (not a guy who could be a member of The Roots).

But I guess this is how we learn…amazing

xoxo,
Stefania

“Games For Days” (official video)

"And these hazards of love/Never more will trouble us..."

2009-12-13T20:03:00.001-05:00

On Thursday, October 8th I sucked up my dislike for The Riv and got there early enough to secure a good spot for The Decemberists. They have been touring pretty heavily supporting their latest album The Hazards of Love and this was their third visit to Chicago this year. The first time at Grant Park in the summer and the second at Lolla. Colin joked with us saying, “Man, Chicago, how many times do we have to come back here?” Ummm…never enough!

Their opener is not a stranger to the band and has opened for them before, Laura Veirs. She did many songs from her soon-to-be-released album, July Flame. She also played my favorite song of hers, “Galaxies.” She had a different backing band than her previous tours, but she was still cute as a button. She mentioned she’ll be back this winter as a part of her proper tour.

As great as Laura is we were there to see one of my all time favorite bands play. I was completely caught off guard that they played The Hazards of Love in its entirety and in order, which makes sense since it is a rock opera: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Hazards_of_Love They also had their cast, Lavender Diamond's Becky Stark and My Brightest Diamond's Shara Worden, with them in addition to the band. I was very impressed that the entire band stayed on stage the entire time playing, no breaks and no banter, for about an hour. It took me a few listens to get into this album when I first got it, and prior to the show I had my favorite songs…but after seeing it live I am head over heels for this album.

The first part of the show went as followed:

“Prelude”
“The Hazards of Love 1 (The Prettiest Whistles Won't Wrestle the Thistles Undone)”
“A Bower Scene”
“Won't Want for Love (Margaret in the Taiga)”
“The Hazards of Love 2 (Wager All)”
“The Queen's Approach”
“Isn't it a Lovely Night?”
“The Wanting Comes in Waves/Repaid”
“An Interlude”
“The Rake's Song “
“The Abduction of Margaret”
“The Queen's Rebuke / The Crossing”
“Annan Water”
“Margaret in Captivity”
“The Hazards of Love 3 (Revenge!)”
“The Wanting Comes in Waves (Reprise)”
“The Hazards of Love 4 (The Drowned)”

When they finished up, Colin said they were going to have a little break and then come back out for some more. I thought we’d hear two or three more songs and that would be that. But no (thank goodness)! They ended up playing almost a full hour with old familiar and favorite songs. Making it a very beefy encore:

Encore 1 (the 2nd part of the show):
“July, July!”
“Everything I Try to Do, Nothing Seems to Turn Out Right”
“Los Angeles, I'm Yours”
“Grace Cathedral Hill”
“The Crane Wife 1 & 2”
“O Valencia”
“Crazy On You (Heart cover, sung by Becky and Shara)”

Encore 2:
“Save Yourself”
“Sons & Daughters”
The Decemberists always put on a solid and engaging show. This not the first time I have written about the band and hopefully, if you have been reading this blog at all, you know that my love for them runs deep. And every show I have seen has been amazing. I can appreciate their consistency and dedication they put into each show. I cannot say enough good things about this show or the band. Again, go see them when you get the opportunity.

xoxo,
Stefania

Current followed The Decemberists as they were getting ready for this tour:

As of now, there are no official videos for the songs on this album, instead they have done this:

Now available on iTunes, but I hope it will be released on DVD.

2009 Austin City Limits Festival

2009-12-04T20:50:00.000-05:00

If you have been reading my blog or if you have met me at all you know that when it comes to multiple day music festivals, I just can’t do it. I mean I can do it, but I’d rather not. And if I do go, I need to limit my time to one day, not all 3 or 4. Or have a VIP pass. VIP makes it bearable. I have been to Lollapalooza, Pitchfork, and Vegoose thus far. I’d be fine with that. However, when my sister (Kathy) and brother-in-law (Brian) moved to Austin a few years ago, she kept asking, “When are you going to come for the Austin City Limits Festival?” And after years of saying, “Uhhh…next year” it was time. The good thing is that I would get some quality time with my family, my brother Michael also came in from LA, and see some music. Two things I love.

Day 1
We got to Zilker Park around 2:30pm. We looked at the merchandise (not impressed) and then headed over to the AMD stage to see The Avett Brothers. I was looking forward to seeing them live and they played many songs off their new album, I and Love and You. Afterwards we walked over to the Dell stage to see Dr. Dog. They were just as much fun as when I saw them at Double Door. We then headed back to the AMD stage to see Phoenix. While we were waiting we could hear The Walkmen at the nearby stage. I like Phoenix just fine, but like several other bands in my life I am losing them to d-bags. It was cool seeing them though, because this was the largest crowd they have ever played and you could tell they were genuinely happy about it, and played it up even more. After a quick food break, Michael and I went to the Austin Ventures stage to see Robyn Hitchcock and the Venus 3. One fun surprise was seeing Peter Buck (of REM) playing with him. We then headed over to the AMD stage to see the Yeah Yeah Yeahs (YYYs). We got there a bit on the early side to get a good spot, which meant we missed Them Crooked Vultures, but at least we could hear them since they were on the next stage over. The YYYs are one of my favorite bands and put out a solid album this year, It’s Blitz! They were the last act of the night playing up against Kings of Leon (KoL). We heard a song or two of theirs as we were leaving the park. Turns out Eddie Vedder came out for a song with the band. I asked, “What did he do? He doesn’t play any instruments. Did he just stand there?” And it turns out he did (confirmed by my sister’s friend). Well he did play a tambourine or something. In any case I was not sad to miss KoL. The d-bags have taken them away. I will just hold on to the memories I have had of them. And plus, the dance party at YYY rocked. No need to be sad.

Day 2
Saturday we got to the park kinda later than we expected. We slept in. We arrived just as Mute Math was starting at the Livestrong stage. Michael and I stuck around for a few songs, but I wanted to head over to the Dell stage to secure a good spot for Grizzly Bear. Even though I had seen them literally 5 days before and had no intentions on seeing them again, I had become a super fan and HAD to see them again. They did not disappoint and they played a few songs I didn’t hear at the Metro, including “Little Brother (Electric).” Also during this set the drizzle had turned to rain and didn’t stop except for 30 minutes here and there the rest of the day. After Grizzly Bear we headed over to Flogging Molly for a few songs and then to …And You Will Know Us by the Trail of Dead. After about 4 songs Michael asked if we could go get a good spot for The Levon Helm Band. So we headed over to the opposite end of the park. As we were passing the Dell stage, I got to hear Bon Iver play “Blood Bank” one of my all time favorite songs. Sigh. The Levon Helm Band was great and they played some songs by The Band, some covers, and then original stuff. Unfortunately, Levon didn’t sing due to doctor’s orders. In 1998, Levon was diagnosed with throat cancer. However, it was good to see him smiling and drumming away. We then headed over to the Wildflower Center (the only covered stage) to see DeVotchKa. The Decemberists were playing at the same time, but since I was going to see them 5 days later at The Riv, I decided to skip them. Plus I really wanted to see DeVotchKa! Oddly, they didn’t start on time and we stood there 20 minutes getting shoved as more people tried to make their way under the covering to find shelter away from the heavy downpour of rain. But when the band made the stage, everyone was fine. Midway through their set I had just reached my limit. We had decided earlier in the day we would leave after DeVotchKa missing both headlining acts for the night: Dave Matthews Band and Ghostland Observatory, due to us being cold, wet, and muddy. As we were leaving the park we heard a few Ghostland songs, so it was good enough for me.

Day 3
Since the park had turned into a giant muddy mess we decided to try and find rain boots to wear, so before we headed over we did a quick shopping trip. We were very smart to do so. Michael decided that he would just roll up his jeans and go barefoot the whole day. Even though it didn’t rain on Sunday it was unbearably muggy and hot. It was gross. We got there early (12:30pm) and saw the last part of Black Joe Lewis & the Honeybears. We were able to secure a good spot for The B-52s, who were energetic and fun. Kathy and Brian left in the middle of their set to get a good spot for White Lies. Michael and I went after The B-52s had finished. Also during this time my friend from Okla., Samantha, made it. Michael and I met up with her at White Lies. The funniest thing Michael said during their set was, “Are they on the ‘Twilight’ soundtrack?” when they were playing “To Lose My Life.” After White Lies Michael and I went to grab a bite to eat. Kathy and Brian also met up with us. At this point I had had it. I was overheated and just grumpy. I also threatened to call my mom to come and get me. I reached my end. But, after opening up my umbrella to block the abusive sun and drank some Sweet Leaf Tea, I was okay. We all then went over to see Passion Pit for a little bit and in the middle of their set, Michael and I headed over to the Livestrong stage to secure a spot for The Dead Weather, which was impossible. Since Pearl Jam (the main headlining act and closer of the festival) was going to be on that stage right after, the crowd was deep. Samantha met up with us though and we watched one of my favorite super groups perform their badass songs. The sun was setting toward the stage and there were times I thought Alison Mosshart was going to pass out. Nothing like pasty, black-clad rockers melting in the setting sun. It was a relief to have the ball of fire finally go away. At this point we had lost Kathy and Brian. We decided to meet up after Pearl Jam. Michael and I headed over to see Girl Talk. He had a crowd of people surrounding him on stage dancing the entire time. It was awesome. The crowd was really into as well and they went almost as far back as the neighboring stage. After his set, Michael and I stopped for a slushy break before heading to Pearl Jam. We knew we wouldn’t have a good spot, nor did we care. Since we were in the back we would see the waves of people who were leaving after a song they were probably waiting to hear. I just wanted to hear “Elderly Woman Behind The Counter in a Small Town,” which they played. Toward the end of the show Perry Ferrell came out to join them since the festival is also put on by him. The next day he and Michael would be on the same flight to LA. After Pearl Jam we all met up, tired and ready to go home.

Overall, the festival was fun, but it was long and draining. Kathy and Brian have already purchased tickets for next year. Michael has said he’ll go again. I will pass.

To see photos of my Austin City Limits Festival experience, click on this link:
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2280300&id=5318194&l=be3a7baee9
Thanks to Michael for being the photographer for us that weekend.

xoxo,
Stefania

"If it's all or nothing, then let me go..."

2009-11-23T00:22:00.002-05:00

On Sunday September, 27th my roommate Jo and I went to the Metro to see one of my new favorite bands, Grizzly Bear http://www.grizzly-bear.net/. I knew a handful of songs prior to their current album, Veckatimest, but it was this release that hooked me. I was counting down the days to this show. I couldn’t wait.

The opening band was called Beach House http://www.beachhousemusic.net/ and they formed in Baltimore. I had not heard of them before. They were good, but nothing that made me a super fan. Singer Victoria Legrand's voice is really pretty. She also did some backing vocals on Veckatimest. One of the songs I really liked though was “Heart of Chambers”:

While Beach Hose was playing I noticed there were these Mason jars hanging and during the break the crew put out more jars around the front of the stage. I was excited to see what they would do, my guess was light up…ding, ding, ding. I was right.

When the band took the stage the crowd was ready to go and as they started in on the first song, “Southern Point,” I knew it was going to be a good show.

They played a solid mix of songs from both albums. From Yellow House they did “Lullabye,” “Knife,” “Colorado,” and “On A Neck, On A Spit.” From Veckatimest they did “Cheerleader,” “Fine For Now,” “I Live With You,” “Ready, Able,” “Foreground,” “While You Wait For The Others,” and “Two Weeks” where Victoria joined them (she does the backing “ahhh ahhh ahhh” part during the chorus). They came out for the encore and only did one song, “Fix It.”

I fell so in love with the Mason jar lighting concept that I want to make a chandelier type one for my house…well my house someday. Sigh. They used those light bulbs that have the wire coils you can see. It gave it this very old timey feel, which I like. In fact that is how I feel about Grizzly Bear’s music. It’s has this real old timey feel but done in a modern way. It is absolutely beautiful.

They guys put on a great live show. Their music is so enchanting it puts you in a trance. They don’t move around a lot or go on with a ton of banter, but they are engaging. I was so impressed by their live show I was a bit bummed I wasn’t going to see their second show on the 28th. But I knew I had one more chance to see them this year the following weekend at the Austin City Limits Festival. I just had to wait one week…guess it is better than waiting two. :)

xoxo,
Stefania

“Two Weeks”

“While You Wait For The Others”

There is an official video for this song, but I love this live performance of it.

“Ready, Able”

Fun Fact: One of Jo’s friends represents the director/creator of this video, Allison Schulnik

"One journey for you but it's worth it/One life here with me and it's magic..."

2009-11-10T00:04:00.002-05:00

My friend Natalie sent me a Facebook message letting me know Ida Maria and Ladyhawke were coming to the Chi and if I wanted to go and make it a girl’s night. Of course, count me in! However, little did we know the headache this show would bring us…

It was a Perez Hilton sponsored tour (found this out after the tickets were bought), and I’m not the biggest fan of Perez, but hey, can’t disagree with his musical tastes. A week before the show we get an e-mail saying due to illness Ida Maria is not going to be there and refunds would then be given. We went back and forth if we should just get our money back and call it a day, however, I was still interested in going, especially since I was really going to see Ladyhawke. And now she was bumped up to headliner! Natalie Portman’s Shaved Head was added as the opening-opening act. A few days later the Metro made the show free! So annoying since I bought a ticket. It also means the show wasn’t even close to selling out. Again we thought about not going, but ultimately a gals night out with dinner and fun music won out. Whew!

So Saturday, September 19th arrived and I was looking forward to the show. Natalie and I met up for dinner and her friend from LA also joined us. We then walked over to the Metro and secured a pretty sweet spot in the balcony area considering we arrived at the almost end of set for the middle act, Semi Precious Weapons. I had never heard of this band before but the crowd seemed to know who they were by the singing along and adoring cheers. They weren’t bad and had this total new-glam thing going on. But I’d equate them with Shiny Toy Guns or Panic at the Disco...glam for tweens.

When Ladyhawke took the stage I was pretty excited. I was familiar with her songs “Magic” (my favorite), “Dusk Till Dawn,” and “Paris is Burning” (she played them all). Even though I didn’t know the rest of her songs they were fun, danceable, and got the crowd going. She only has one album, so it wasn’t too hard to figure out what was what. This was her first show in Chicago and I hope she’ll be back. If so I’ll be there with my dancing shoes.

After the show Natalie and I grabbed a drink. When we were leaving the bar we saw Ladyhawke outside the front doors of the Metro. We stopped by and said, “Hello, great show…” and in her cute New Zealand accent, she thanked us. We then walked away smiling.

One interesting thing about Ladyhawke (Phillipa Brown) is that she has Asperger syndrome. However, this doesn’t seem to stop her.

Official site: http://www.ladyhawkemusic.com/

xoxo,
Stefania

“Magic”

“Paris Is Burning”

“Dusk Till Dawn”

"Don’t want you to hold me, if fits just like a glove..."

2009-11-09T20:54:00.000-05:00

A few weeks prior to the show I get a text from my friend Alessandra: “Mars Volta on Friday, Sept. 11th. Who’s in?” I think a minute and respond, “Me! I’ll get my ticket now.” And it was done. I knew very little about The Mars Volta other than they formed out of At the Drive-In and play proggy, experimental, heady rock. And then I started to think about what songs I knew of theirs and realized not many. I could picture certain album covers, but not songs. Oh well, this show can be my education, right?

On Friday, September 11th I met Alessandra and Victoria at the Congress Theater to see these shaggy haired, skinny Texas boys melt my face off. It was a 17 and up show so the teens were out in full force. At first only the floor was open and not the balcony. The floor area is so large once it started filling up it, our line of sight was diminishing. Then we noticed people starting to sit in the balcony. I went up to investigate and discovered we were able to sit there. I snagged some good seat and texted for the rest of my party to join me.

We sat and waited for the show to start. Since this was, “An evening with The Mars Volta” there was no opening act. Which was okay with me. When they took the stage the crowd went wild. Since I just admitted I don’t know much of their music, I had no idea what songs they played. But thank you rabid fans for posting a set list for me:

1. Son Et Lumiere
2. Intertiatic E.S.P.
3. Goliath

4. Cotopaxi
5. Roulette Dares (The Haunt Of)
6. Viscera Eyes
7. Halo Of Nembutal's
8. Eunuch Provocateur
9. Ilyena
10. Teflon
11. Drunkship Of Lanterns
12. Luciforms
13. The Widow (the song I did know)

14. Wax Simulacra

I really enjoyed The Mars Volta and they put on a great live show. Full of energy and cool visuals: light show and the backdrop changed around 4 times through the set. Cedric Bixler-Zavala has such a distinct and powerful voice it was just amazing watching and listening to him and Omar Rodríguez-López just shredded it on guitar.

Even though I was not as familiar with the band before seeing them live, I’m glad I went and got to know them better.

Official site: http://www.themarsvolta.com/

xoxo,
Stefania

"If I am lost it's only for a little while..."

2009-11-02T02:40:00.001-05:00

The weekend of August 7-9th was Lollapalooza in Grant Park here in Chicago, however, I did not attend. Many of you who know me are aware that I am not a fan of outdoor festivals, and if I go to one it will probably be the only one I do that year. Since I had promised my sister I would go to the Austin City Limits Festival with her and my brother-in-law in October, I was fine missing it…especially since the same organizers do both festivals and there were some artists playing both.

One good thing I can say about festivals is that they always result in aftershows for artists around town. Now, those I will do. I mean it’s just like a regular show. So this year I went to see Band of Horses at the House of Blues on Friday, August 7th. My friend Sam and her brother Keeno were in town for Lolla and we planned on meeting up at the show.

I really love Band of Horses and was looking forward to their set. Unfortunately, I didn’t meet up with Sam and Keeno in the venue. But randomly had stood next to some acquaintances and enjoyed the show with them.

They played a handful of songs off of their first album, Everything all the Time: “The Funeral,” “Our Swords,” “The Great Salt Lake,” “Wicked Gil,” “Part One,” and “Monsters.” From Cease To Begin they played: “Is there A Ghost,” “No One’s Gonna Love You,” “The General Specific,” “Ode to LRC,” “Window Blues,” “Islands On The Coast,” and my all time favorite “Cigarettes, Wedding Bands.” The guys also played a few new songs from their upcoming album, Night Rainbows. A part of one can be heard here at the start of this video:
(around the 2:06 mark it goes into “Window Blues” (country-fied style), at 3:15 it goes into “Wicked Gil,” and at 4:24 it goes into “The Funeral”)

From that clip you can see the crowd was very chatty and there was a lot of movement. That was the biggest complaint I had about the show. Since this was right after day one of the festival and at a venue close to the park, there were a lot of people who had been drinking all day and still must have thought they were outside and that their talking would be absorbed by being outside and the loud sound system. Not so much for the indoors, people.

I also had a really good spot. I have never seen a show at the House of Blues and when I first arrived I was on the floor in front of the sound booth and it was great until some really tall dudes stood right in my line of sight. Then when Sam arrived she gave me her location, but our wires got crossed on where each other were and the reception for both of our phones was spotty. But like I said where I ended up was great and I was with people I knew. So no major complaints.

Band of Horses put on a solid show and from what I heard they also did at Lolla both times they played (their time slot and as surprise guests on the kids stage). I am looking forward to their return to Chicago, which I am sure will come after the release of Night Rainbows. Which by the way, what is up with that title? :)

xoxo,
Stefania

"So you heard I crossed over the line..."

2009-10-12T00:20:00.000-04:00

On Monday, August 3rd I saw Tori Amos on her Sinful Attractions Tour. I went with my friends Alison, Ali, and Ali’s boyfriend, Matt. Alison had seen her before but for longtime fan, Ali it was her first show, and also for her boyfriend. I am not exactly sure how many times I have seen her live, but I think it’s been at least once every tour (with the exception of the To Venus and Back tour) since 1998. One day I’m gonna figure it out, as well as what songs I have heard live. There are enough super fans out there that have documented her every tour/show move since her start.

I was super excited to see her live once again, like I am every time she comes to town. Even though she tours after a new album is released and you expect her to play a good majority from that new album, this tour supporting Abnormally Attracted To Sin, but you know she will do some of your favorites as well as surprise you.

The set list was as followed:

1. Give
2. Bouncing Off Clouds
3. Cornflake Girl
4. Curtain Call
5. Hotel

6. Josephine

7. Pandora’s Aquarium
8. Marys of the Sea
9. Lady in Blue

10. Leather
11. That Guy

12. Northern Lad
13. Cars and Guitars
14. Fast Horse

15. Precious Things
16. Strong Black Vine
Encore
17. Police Me
18. Take to the Sky
19. Big Wheel

I can’t say that this was my favorite show of hers that I have seen, but I was pleased by some of my favorites especially “Josephine,” Marys of the Sea,” and “Take to the Sky.” Of course the crowd went crazy for “Leather” as they always do. She is just so hot, hot, hot when she performs it. The songs off the new album also played well live and I got a better feel for them, since it has taken me a while to get into this album. Starting out with “Give” was perfect and the song is just beautiful.

As long as Tori keeps touring, I will continue seeing her.

xoxo,
Stefania

"I'm walking away now, one step forward, back two..."

2009-09-24T01:11:00.002-04:00

On Wednesday, July 29th my friend Natalie and I went to go see The Dead Weather at the Vic. A few months prior Natalie had asked if I wanted a ticket to go to the show, even though we were both pretty unfamiliar with the sound of this Jack White lead super group, other members include: Alison Mosshart (The Kills), Dean Fertita (Queens of the Stone Age), and Jack Lawrence (The Raconteurs and The Greenhornes).

However, I had heard some songs on KEXP and I was really obsessed with the movie-type-poster-photos from the “Treat Me Like Your Mother” video: http://www.thedeadweather.com/treatmelikeyourmother/. I ended up getting the album when it was released and was hooked, hooked, hooked. I absolutely loved it and had it on repeat for weeks. I know it will be on my best of 2009 list. As the date approached I got more and more excited.

When the day finally came, Natalie and I met for dinner and drinks. We made it over to the Vic as the opening act, Screaming Females http://screamingfemales.blogspot.com/, were finishing up their last few songs. Their lead singer looked like an adult Ramona Quimby, had Ramona thought she was still 8 and dressing and keeping her hairstyle that way. Their sound was upbeat, fast, and rocking: http://www.myspace.com/screamingfemales.They weren’t bad and a good fit as an opener for The Dead Weather.

When the lights dimmed and the band came out and started playing “I Cut Like a Buffalo” I knew Alison was going to take no mercy on us and would just rock us out of the theater. The band also kept our attention and had us wanting more by the end of the show. The setlist was as followed:

1. I Cut Like a Buffalo

2. 60 Feet Tall
3. You Just Can't Win (Them cover)
4. Outside (The Downliners Sect cover)
5. Bone House

6. So Far From Your Weapon
7. A Child of a Few Hours is Burning to Death
8. Rocking Horse
9. No Hassle Night
10. Forever My Queen (Pentagram cover)
11. Will There Be Enough Water?
Encore
12. Hang You From The Heavens

13. Treat Me Like Your Mother

14. New Pony (Bob Dylan cover)

After the show I was pumped. I felt like I wanted to either punch someone, make out with them, or both. It was an adrenaline rush and I was sad that they couldn’t keep playing all night. I mean they only have one album and did a handful of covers, but they could have played well into the morning and I would have been happy.

This was by far my favorite show of the summer.

xoxo,
Stefania

"I'd like to take you to a place I know..."

2009-08-28T01:11:00.000-04:00

So this entry has taken me a while to get to because, well to be honest with you all, I really don’t want to write it. Sounds horrible, I know, especially when it is an artist as much as I love, the fabulous PJ Harvey.

When I found out she was coming I was excited beyond belief, a bit annoyed that she would be playing the Riv, but I was going to suck it up in order to see her. Plus she tours so infrequently if she comes to your town you don’t question it…you go.

So on Friday, June 12th I arrived at the Riv fairly early to ensure that I would get a good seat in the balcony. I ended up sitting next to two brothers from Sweden who were making it back home for the summer (one of them was a grad student at Stanford) and both had never heard PJ’s music. They knew that she was similar to Nick Cave and they liked him. On their way back home they were hitting up some American cities they haven’t been to. Pretty cool.

I knew this tour she was promoting the album she did with John Parish, A Woman A Man Walked By, but I didn’t think that was going to be the only thing she played that night. I think the crowd would have been really happy if she had slipped in some of her earlier or more beloved stuff. The songs we would have much rather heard. But, no. It was the entire new album. Well and some other songs…I’m guessing songs from her previous album she did with Parish.

I don’t absolutely despise the album or anything, I just don’t feel it. With the exception of the track “Black Hearted Love” the others are just a little “eh.” However, I thought, “Well watching this live maybe it’ll convert me.” It didn’t. Well, I did end up liking “Leaving California” but that really wasn’t enough for me to get excited about the rest of the music.

Don’t get me wrong, I’m glad I went to the show and I’m happy I got to see the wonderful Polly Jean in all her beauty performing. It just wasn’t what I was expecting or wanted. Oh well. Maybe next time.

xoxo,
Stefania

Setlist:
1. Black Hearted Love
2. Sixteen, Fifteen, Fourteen
3. Rope Bridge Crossing
4. Urn with Dead Flowers in a Drained Pool
5. The Soldier
6. Taut
7. Un Cercle Autour Du Soleil
8. The Chair
9. Leaving California
10. A Woman A Man Walked By
11. Passionless, Pointless
12. Cracks in the Canvas
13. Pig Will Not

Encore:
14. False Fire
15. April

Video for the amazing song, “Black Hearted Love”

“Leave the things you don't need/And the ones that you don't love…”

2009-07-29T01:33:00.002-04:00

On Friday, May 29th I finally saw one of my favorite bands live…Doves: http://www.doves.net/. I can’t even recall the last time they played in the States. If they did they totally missed Dallas, DC, and NYC (any of the cities I could have seen them in since I discovered them in 2000). I am on their listserv and always get so jealous when I see dates in their native England. So I could hardly contain my excitement that after 4 years of releasing a new album they were doing a US tour, and one of the stops was going to be Chicago. At my favorite venue, The Vic. Could it be more perfect?
I have been in love with this band since I first saw the video for “Catch the Sun” on 120 Minutes. I was immediately mesmerized and smitten. Who was this band? Why were they not bigger here? Where can I get this album? When are they going on tour?

With each album that followed I never saw them live, yet my love for their music never wavered. Then one day, 9 years after my first encounter with their music, I get info about a pre-sale. YES!!!! I immediately post my excitement on my Facebook account and my friend V responds that she wants to go to. When the pre-sale begins we both get tickets and then proceed to count down the days until they arrive. Finally, it did.

Since I knew that the crowd would be chomping at the bit for a good spot, I assumed many people would start lining up prior to doors opening. I was right. I knew exactly where I wanted to stand and was prepared to widen my stance so once V got there we would both have an awesome view. I got there in just enough time, before the line got too long. Once the doors opened I ran in like a cat scampering from thunder. But I did get my spot: front, center, first elevated tier.

As I was waiting I struck up a conversation with the people next to me. They were pretty cool. Also big fans that have been waiting just as long as I have to see them live. By the time the opening act, Wild Light http://www.myspace.com/wildlight, took the stage I was pumped. I really just wanted to yell, “Get off the stage! Hurry up Doves!” But knew that would not be cool, and I hate people who do that. Plus, they might not be that bad. They may be my next favorite band. Well, not quite. These New Hampshire rockers were okay. Not really my thing, but a few decent songs.

In between Wild Light and Doves, V showed up…with booze! Hooray! So then we stood and waited and got more and more eager as the minutes passed. Then the house lights dimmed, the giant screen that will show video throughout their show begins showing images of an airplane, and then the gentlemen make their way to the stage. The crowd goes wild! They start into the first song off the new album, “Jetstream”

They then continued on, playing songs from all of their albums. I cannot recall the exact set list, but I do know they played “Winter Hill,” “Almost Forgot Myself,” fan favorite (thanks to The O.C.) “Caught By the River,” “Here It Comes,” and ended with “There Goes the Fear.”

Also, many people took some great videos of other songs they played, especially this guy, DiegoVid (thanks, Dude!):

“Kingdom of Rust”

“10:03” (where Jimi mentions it is his birthday)

“The Greatest Denier” (the images on the screen were of recognizable Chicago buildings and our skyline—which is why there were so many cheers)

“Pounding”

“Black and White Town” (they showed the official video for this on the screen behind them)

“Firesuite” (first song of the encore)

The show was not only amazing because the band is, but also because the crowd was so excited to be there. As you can tell in the videos the cheers and singing along were pretty consistent. In fact the band at one point got embarrassed that we were so adoring towards them. Well when you rarely come to see us, what do you expect?

This show just confirmed why I love this band and why I get genuinely excited about their music. I really hope that they come back to the States more often or that I strike it rich and can go to England to see them on a whim. Until then I have their albums and the memories of this show. Sigh.

xoxo,
Stefania

P.S. This is my 100th post! How exciting! Thank you to everyone who has taken the time to read my ramblings. Who knew I would still be doing this when I started almost 3 years ago?

"We could be movers/We could be shakers/If we could just shake somin' outta the blue/And get off the ride..."

2009-06-04T22:17:00.002-04:00

So after missing The Kills http://www.thekills.tv/ on their previous tour in the fall I was super excited to see their return to my fair city. On May 9th I arrived a bit early (I wanted a good spot on the balcony) at the Metro to see one of my new favorite bands. I actually was aware of The Kills before their last album due to the song “Wait.” An ex put on a mix CD for me…he was an awful boyfriend, but his taste in music was great…and when it was used in the film Children of Men. But their album Midnight Boom really made me take notice and was on my best of 2008 list at #2.

But before The Kills took the stage there were two opening acts. The opening-opening band was the Magic Wands: http://www.myspace.com/themagicwands Another boy-girl duo who play edgy sounding music and have the whole “I wear my sunglasses indoors and never will take off my leather jacket” look. I really enjoy their set. Since I didn’t know any of their songs I had to remember some lyrics in order to find out what they played. I especially liked, “Teenage Love”:

I really need to look into them further.

The opening band were The Horrors http://www.thehorrors.co.uk/, who I just knew from their first album’s stand out track “Sheena Is a Parasite” and from KEXP playing stuff off their latest album. I really had high hopes for this band after becoming addicted to their song “Scarlet Fields.” I was a bit confused by who their lead singer was because when they all took the stage there was this tall skinny guy lurking behind the drum kit while the others played, but then he came forward and started singing. They did play my new favorite song as well as many tracks from their new album, Primary Colours. Here is the video for “Who Can Say”:

They were pretty solid live, but they were not the stand out opening act for me.

I was super duper excited by the time The Kills took the stage as was the adoring crowd. Sold out show! They came out and started strong with “U.R.A. Fever” and we all went wild.

Alison Mosshart aka “VV” and Jamie Hince aka “Hotel” looked amazing and had great stage presence and interaction with the crowd. They also were pretty engaging with each other and played off one another during the show. Which was cool because I was curious to see how they would be live. I loved, loved, loved all of it!

The rest of the set list is as follows:

2. Pull A U
3. Sour Cherry
4. Tape Song

5. No Wow
6. Alphabet Pony
7. Last Day of Magic

8. Kissy Kissy
9. Black Balloon

10. Hook and Line
11. Crazy (Patsy Cline cover)
12. Getting Down
13. Cheap and Cheerful

14. Fried My Little Brains

The encore was:
15. Goodnight Bad Morning

16. I Put A Spell On You (Screamin' Jay Hawkins cover)
17. Dropout Boogie (Captain Beefheart cover)

As you can see they did three covers. All were done beautifully and with that Kills edge. Very cool.

I absolutely loved this show and will certainly see them again next time they come to town. It was a rockin’ badass dance party.

xoxo,
Stefania

"Yes, I'm a man, man, man/Man, man, man eater/But still you're surprised-prised-prised when I eat ya..."

2009-05-03T18:23:00.002-04:00

In January tickets went on sale for Neko Case: http://www.nekocase.com/ ...and I think I might have been one of the first people to get one during the pre-sale. I have been waiting 4 years to see her live. For some reason we keep missing each other. But not this time. Hooray!

I had friends in town that weekend so felt bad that I had to leave them for a few hours on Friday, April 24th to go to the Chicago Theatre to see the fabulous Neko, but not too bad! Because I spent too much time at dinner I missed everything but a song and a half from the opening act, Crooked Fingers: http://www.crookedfingers.com/. I was okay with that. I only know a few songs, and I like them, but I’ll check them out on my own time.

So during the little downtime before Neko took the stage I was excited and anxious. Looking at the stage there was a giant screen that had an owl wrapped around it. “What was she going to play?” Her catalogue is fairly large. “Will she surprise us with anything?” Oh I was so ready to see her!

When she and her band took the stage the crowd went crazy. They came out to the last track on the new album, Middle Cyclone, “Marais La Nuit.” She looks even more beautiful in person. She had her red hair down and was wearing a back form fitting dress (later in the show she says her “Tribute to Chicago” since “we have a lot of encase meat here”) and some hot black Mary Jane heels.

She started out with Fox Confessor Brings The Flood’s “Maybe Sparrow.” The screen lit up and showed images of birds, landscapes, houses, and the like. The giant owl that embraced the screen had lit eyes that would glow every so often. These were the visuals for pretty much the entire show. Except for when she played the single, “Some People Got A Lotta Nerve” from the new album, she showed the video:

From what I can remember the set list was:
“Maybe Sparrow”
“People Got A Lotta Nerve”
“Hold On, Hold On”
“The Pharaohs”
“Middle Cyclone”
“Deep Red Bells” (One of my all time faves!)
“I Wish I Was The Moon” (I nearly fell out my chair when she started playing this)
“I’m An Animal”
“Prison Girls”
“The Tigers Have Spoken”
“Margaret vs. Pauline” (Was surprised she played this, but so happy she did)
“Red Tide”
“Don’t Forget Me”
“That Teenage Feeling” (The song that inspires me and gives me hope)
“This Tornado Loves You” (My favorite song on the new album)

Encore:
“The Next Time Say Forever”
“Magpie To The Morning”
“Knock Loud” (I love this cover…sooooo amazing!)

I know she also played “Never Turn Your Back On Mother Earth” but can’t recall where that was in the show. In fact I may be off in the order. I should really start writing this stuff down, no?

The overall interaction and banter with the crowd was also great. You can tell that Neko and the rest of the band enjoy spending time together and were very jokey. They also have a love for Chicago which came out several times when Kelly Hogan would mention The Hideout or Neko talking about Hot Doug’s. I also enjoyed Neko’s impression of Diana Ross from an old performance they saw about her late night on TV.

I love Neko Case and am so happy I finally got to see her live. I really look forward to seeing her again and I really hope that she plays a separate show here other than her Lollapalooza date.

xoxo,
Stefania

"Well, I don't need no doctor /To tear me all apart/I just need you /To mend my heart..."

2009-04-20T17:31:00.001-04:00

Originally Dr. Dog: http://www.drdogmusic.com/ was only going to play on Friday, April 10th, but due to it being sold out rather quickly they added another date on Thursday the 9th. I was pretty excited because I didn’t move fast enough for the 10th. I knew I really wanted to see them live since their album, Fate, was one of my surprise favorites of 2008 (my #4 pick).

On Thursday I hurried myself to get to the Double Door in time for the opening act, The Cave Singers: http://www.myspace.com/thecavesingers. I arrived at the venue towards the end of the opening-opening act, Golden Boots: http://www.myspace.com/goldenboots From what I could tell they were pretty good, and were a good fit with the other two bands.

I was really looking forward to seeing The Cave Singers. They are Seattle band and came from the disbanding of other Seattle groups like Pretty Girls Make Graves, Hint Hint, and Cobra High. They play their AMAZING single “Dancing On Our Graves” on KEXP pretty frequently.

The rest of their set was just as energetic and lively. They were fun to watch and had some funny banter with us. Like letting us know that Olive Garden is a great value for your money and to be sure to try the breadsticks. I was pretty happy with their performance even though I didn’t know the other songs they played as well.

Before Fate the only thing I knew about Dr. Dog was that they were Philly based and kinda jam bandy. I also was familiar with their animated video for their song “My Old Ways.” Like I mentioned in my Best of 2008 entry for them I was completely caught off guard when I found myself liking their song “The Old Days” and then falling in love with their latest album. I didn’t know what to expect from their live show, and figured it would be good but nothing too crazy. I was completely surprised again by them. They put on one of the best live shows I have seen in a while. They were energetic and were genuinely having a good time on stage. You could tell they liked each other and the music they were playing. The result of that is the audience gets into it as well, and just makes it an overall wonderful experience.

They played a lot off of Fate: “The Breeze,” “Army of Ancients, “The Rabbit, The Bear, & The Reindeer,” “From,” “100 Years,” “The Beach,” and “My Friend.” They also played “The Old Days” but they did it in a super fast way that was not as good as the original way they play it, in my opinion. Other songs off the album they did were “The Ark”:

and “Hang On”:

They also played songs from earlier albums, but I was not as familiar with them to know the titles. However, especially after this show I want to further explore this band’s music.

One thing about Dr. Dog that I was unaware of is that there are two singers in the band: Scott McMicken (piano and guitar) and Toby Leaman (bassist). I mean you can tell there is a difference vocally when you listen to certain songs, but for some reason I just didn’t think that two guys would be sharing the singer duties so well.

I absolutely loved Dr. Dog’s live show. I had such a fun time dancing and singing along. I highly recommend seeing them, and I look forward to seeing them again. In fact, I was a bit bummed I didn’t have a ticket to go and see them again on the 10th. Maybe with their summer tour and if they decide to do a summer festival, perhaps our paths will cross again soon?

xoxo,
Stefania

P.S. One of my favorite gems: Dr. Dog’s NPR's Tiny Desk Concert: http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=95893471

"Let's grow old together and die at the same time..."

2009-04-12T19:09:00.000-04:00

One of my favorite albums of 2008 came from Friendly Fires (FF) http://www.wearefriendlyfires.com/, and so when I saw they were playing the Double Door I got super excited. Then I realized that they were the opening act for a band called White Lies (WL) http://www.whitelies.com/. I like a few WL songs, and even though FF wasn’t the headliner I decided to go anyway. And so I trekked myself on down to the Double Door on April 3rd to see one band I couldn’t wait to watch (and dance to) and one that I hope would get me excited about them live.

My friends Brie and Heidi had already seen the show when all three acts came to DC and played the Black Cat. Their review was positive in general, and they told me that FF was amazing, however, that WL wasn’t very good. In fact they left early. So I was hoping that overall the show would be good.

The opening-opening act was California band The Soft Pack: http://www.myspace.com/thesoftpack. They were okay. Catchy, short, fast songs played with this punk-musician flair, especially by the drummer. They seemed fine enough, but I was just waiting for FF to take the stage so anyone playing before them probably would have received a similar review from me. But they are making a bit of a splash on KEXP currently.

I was really excited when FF took the stage. Also by this time some of my friends had showed up so I joined them at a spot that had a better view. When they started playing all was going well and the dance party was beginning. Then Ed Macfarlane opened his mouth and started singing. Wah wah. It sounded muffled and sometimes strained. Even though they played their entire album, I think…maybe one or two songs were missing, I was kinda bummed they were not as stellar live as I was expecting. I think some of it may have been due to the poor sound quality of the venue (at least that is what my friends told me) or it may be that they are not as great live. However, this did not deter me from trying to make it a good experience and I sang and danced along. Plus they looked like they were having a fun time on stage and that is always helpful and contagious. I do want to see them live again to be sure though.

The start of the show and “Lovesick”

I love how Ed takes the mic and taps it on his head and then awkwardly thrust his pelvis at us.

When WL came on my expectations were low. I mean Brie and Heidi left the show during their set and they NEVER do that. So they must not be that great live, right? WRONG!!! It was like the reverse of the show my DC gal pals had. They were amazing! They started off the set with their two strongest songs, “To Lose My Life” and “Unfinished Business.” It just got better from there when they played “Farewell to the Fairground” and “Death.” I was really surprised about them. Their sound quality was great, which again made me think maybe FF just sounds off live. I mean I was in the same spot for both acts. I like the sound of WL, but to me they were like a hotter, British version of the Bravery. Remember them? Yeah. I just hope WL will have a little bit longer career. Not gonna lie these guys were great looking. I was completely enamored by the bassist, Charles. Rowrr…

“Unfinished Business” on Later...With Jools Holland

So I went to the show thinking that FF was gonna know my socks off and it turned out WL were truly the headlining act.

xoxo,
Stefania

Art is subjective

2009-03-30T15:15:00.001-04:00

So my friend Bodie sent me a link to the Department of Eagles’ video for “No One Does It Like You” last week and it took me to the MoMA site. Turns out it was directed by Patrick Daughters and Marcel Dzama, and the costumes and sets were designed by Dzama.

You may know Daughters from his past videos: Yeah Yeah Yeah’s “Maps”, Feist’s “Mushaboom”, The Shins’ “Phantomb Limb”, Interpol’s “No I In Threesome”, and many many more.

Maybe you know Dzama from his artwork gracing Beck’s Guero album or The Weakerthans’ Reconstruction Site. He has also had several exhibits here in the states, and a large number of his work in the Tate (London). He is Canadian.

Also in doing more research about the video, I found that the choreography was done by a member of Fischerspooner. My bet is Stephanie Dixon since she is their dancer.

I like, respect, and admire both of these men’s work. However, for some reason this video really bothers me. I find it a bit disturbing and haunting. Maybe like the war it is meant to portray?

This was part of MoMA’s PopRally program.

xoxo,
Stefania

"Yeah, I'm working/To make butter for my piece of bun..."

2009-03-29T19:25:00.002-04:00

As I have already mentioned in my best of 2008 list, I was a recent convert to the church of Lykke Li: http://www.lykkeli.com/. So when it was first announced that she would be playing the Metro I let the information roll past me. However, months later after being hooked on her album I immediately bought a ticket, and was excited to find out some of my friends were going too.

On February 7th me and some of my gal pals grabbed a drink prior to the show and then headed over to the Metro. Two of my friends had seen her the last time she was here at Schubas, and said she put on a good show. I started getting excited. We arrived in the middle of the opening act’s set. They were called Wildbirds & Peacedrums: http://www.wildbirdsandpeacedrums.com/ and they also are from Sweden. I was not too impressed with them and felt that their singer was a watered down version of Feist. But it seemed like the crowd that was there was into it.

At the start of Lykke Li’s set the lights dimmed and the music started. You could feel the energy buzzing amongst the sold out crowd. Then she emerged. WOW!!!!! Such a hottie! Short shorts, super high heel boots, sassy bed head hair and bold eye makeup. Then she opened her mouth and her voice started the first line of “Dance, Dance, Dance.” AMAZING! My friends told me that when she played Schubas she looked more flower child hippie. So she must have gotten a makeover somewhere along the way.

The show was fabulous. She played pretty much everything off of her album including my favorite “I’m Good, I’m Gone.” She also did “Tonight,” “Little Bit,” “Hanging High,” “Let It Fall,” “Everybody But Me,” and ended the set with “Breaking It Up.”

She didn’t play “My Love” which I was really bummed about, but she did give us a few treats. One surprise for me was her cover of Kings Of Leon’s “Knocked Up.” I knew she had done it, but had not heard it yet. It was amazing. She also covered Lil Wayne’s “A Milli” to the crowd’s delight.

For the encore she started out with “Time Flies” and ended with Tribe Called Quest’s “Can I Kick It.” We all went nuts. Literally everyone was just moving and singing along to her sexy voice offering a new twist on an old favorite.

I really enjoyed this show and it just confirmed what a great performer Lykke Li is. I am so excited to see what she will do in the future. If you get a chance to see her live, do! She has a few more US dates left, including Coachella. Then hopefully she’ll head back home and start working on a new album.

xoxo,
Stefania

P.S. Some great collaborations with Lykke Li:

“I’m Good, “I’m Gone” with some other Swedish all-stars

“Dance, Dance, Dance” with Bon Iver

"Our edges can never be found out/No, our edges keep moving further out..."

2009-03-12T00:59:00.000-04:00

So I honestly have been putting off doing my last few show entries due to laziness. I know that sounds awful, but once 2008 was coming to an end I just got caught up in leaving for the holidays and slacking off. I debated not even writing about the shows, but then of course my Catholic guilt kicked in and I felt like I have this obligation to you, my loyal readers. The readers who will send me an e-mail or a Facebook wall post telling me to get my act together and write. Well, my lovelies, I will try and do my best. I mean it this time.

On November 7th, 2008 (See? See how far behind I am?!) I went to Schubas with my friend Natalie to see My Brightest Diamond (MBD) http://www.mybrightestdiamond.com/. I didn’t know much about MBD except they are on Asthmatic Kitty, Sufjan Stevens’ label. In fact one of my first blog entries mentions Shara Worden (lead singer/songwriter for MBD) when she was touring with Sufjan for the Illinois tour. She sang the first part of “Sister” at the start of that show.

Well Natalie does street team work for Asthmatic Kitty and she encouraged me to go. At first I was reluctant, but afterwards I was really happy I went. One thing that really made the show was the intimate and comforting venue that is Schubas. And the crowd was pretty cool too. I mean who else goes to listen to a dreamy combo of rock, classical, opera, and cabaret? Pretty chill people.

The opening band was a group called Clare & The Reasons www.myspace.com/claremuldaur. At first I was like, “Hey they are pretty good. Cutesy singer, sweet and honest banter…I like them.” But then they started playing a song and I was frozen in my spot, eyes glued to the stage. I was entranced and just felt it in the marrow of my bones. The song was, “Alphabet City,” and after hearing it I knew I had to go to the merch table and get the album. Which is rare, because I hardly ever do that. I knew it was kismet when I bough the last copy of the record. Score! Other notable songs they performed were “Pluto,” “Rodi,” “Can Your Car Do That?” and their version of Tears For Fears’ “Everybody Wants To Rule The World.”

“Alphabet City” (not from the show)

By the time Shara and the rest of her band came out the crowd was pretty warmed up. Unfortunately, after a few songs in Natalie wasn’t feeling very well and had to leave. Sad face, since she was so excited to see them live. Even though I didn’t know much of her music, well really any of it, I was pretty pleased. I know that in the summer she had released a new album called, A Thousand Shark's Teeth, and would probably play most stuff from that. Of course she would add to the set list from her first album, Bring Me the Workhorse. She started out with “Golden Star” and then went into other song such as “If I Were Queen,” “Apples,” “Disappear,” “Dragonfly,” Gentlest Gentleman,” “To Pluto’s Moon, and “Inside A Boy.” In the final song, “From The Top Of The World” they entertained us with a guy and girl puppet and did a little show on the corner of the stage. It was very sweet. Here is the official video, including the puppets:

Even though I didn’t go to the show super excited or fully aware of MBD, I’m glad I went and saw her live. And I’m really glad that I discovered Clare & The Reasons. Their album, The Movie, has been on rotation in my iPod since that night.

xoxo,
Stefania

Happy Valentine’s Day!

2009-02-14T05:40:00.005-05:00

So this year I wish I had something witty to say or a suggestion of something lovey-dovey for you. Well I don’t. Maybe next year?

Instead I’ll leave you with what I consider to be one of the best songs ever. If you have a Valentine, congrats. If you don’t, no worries…be hopeful. That is what this song says to me.

xoxo,
Stefania

“Here We Go”—Jon Brion

You've gotta hope that there's someone for you
As strange as you are
Who can cope with the things that you do
Without trying too hard

Because you can bend the truth
Until it's suiting you
These things that you're wrapping all around you
You never know what they will amount to
And your life is just going on without you
It's the end of the things you know
Here we go

You've gotta know that there's more to this world
Than what you have seen
Because we all have a limited view
Of what it can be

As we move along with our blinders on
Each one of us feels a little stranded
And you can't explain or understand it
Each one of us on a different planet
Amidst all the to and fro
Someone can say hello
Here we go

The feeling that someone really gets you
It's something that no one should object to
It could happen today
So I suggest you skip your habit of laying low
It's the end of the things you know
Here we go

Because someone can say "Hello,
You old so and so"
Here we go

Look Around You

2009-02-02T01:30:00.000-05:00

I have become obsessed with the British show Look Around You: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Look_around_you The first series is now being shown on Cartoon Network’s Adult Swim on Sunday nights at 12am CST.

Tonight, or rather this morning, they covered the topic that is most near and dear to my heart, music.

Brilliant.

xoxo,
Stefania

Now, why on Earth would you go and do that?

2009-01-29T17:30:00.000-05:00

Dear actress that looks like me,
Please don’t cover one of my all time favorite songs in a sad, lounge act sort of way. The song is heartbreaking enough. Please stick to what you know: acting and looking pretty. Oh wait, you already covered it? And it’s on a soundtrack for all eternity? Dammit!

http://stereogum.com/archives/scarlett-johansson-covers-jeff-buckley_048421.html

Love,
The older version of you

This tornado loves you, Neko

2009-01-12T10:48:00.000-05:00

So I just saw the little promo video for Neko Case’s new album Middle Cyclone which is being released the day before my birthday. Happy Birthday to me!

Very much looking forward to this album and hoping when she goes on tour I finally can see her live.

xoxo,
Stefania

Not for the faint of heart...

2009-01-09T11:37:00.000-05:00

“If I Had A Heart”—Fever Ray

So is this not the creepiest video you have ever seen? Halloween has come early this year…way early. The song is amazingly beautiful though, no?

Fever Ray is Karin Dreijer Andersson from The Knife. Her album will be released in March. http://feverray.com/

xoxo,
Stefania

My Best of 2008

2009-01-07T00:59:00.000-05:00

First off HAPPY 2009, my dear friends! I hope you rang in the new year with all your favorite people and rocked out like there was no tomorrow. 2009. Crazy town! Time goes so fast…

But let’s not move along too fast. I still owe you all my best of 2008 list. I love how I write as if you all have been waiting anxiously for this list. In my mind you do. It helps me sleep at night so back off! Kidding. Love you!

2008 was a great year for music. I think I have said that the past two years about those years too, but it’s true again this year. Often times people will complain that music has gotten awful or that nothing new is wowing them. I don’t sympathize at all. I seem t o find too much good music year after year. It’s not that I’m bragging about it, but seriously, it is out there. You just have to find it. Or better yet continue to read my blog. I will not steer you wrong.

I had fun reviewing the albums this year and deciding which ones were going to make it on to my list. I feel like these are the ones that defined my 2008. Oddly, after looking at the list and thinking about the songs, I found that they either make me want to have a dance party or move to the mountains and live in a cabin with a bearded beau. Some of them make me want to do both.

Now on to the list…

16.
With Blasphemy So Heartfelt—Jessica Lea Mayfield
As many of you know I listen to KEXP throughout the day at work. I keep a piece of paper by my keyboard and if I hear a song I like I will write it down. Once my sheet is full I do some research and then decide if the album worth getting or do I just download the one track that blew my mind. This year I had jotted down 4 songs from Jessica Lea Mayfield. The debut album from this young Kent, Ohio native (she’s 19) blew me away. Each song is simple and sweet, no matter if she is confessing her love (“I’m Not Lonely Anymore”), hoping you call (“Call Me”) or pushing you away (“For Today”). This was such a gem of an album to find this year. http://www.myspace.com/jlmayfield

15.
Oracular Spectacular—MGMT
Do you remember the summer? Did you go to a house party or a BBQ and the host had some music playing for background noise or maybe to set the mood, and you were listening but not too intently, and then…BAM! A song just hit you? And you thought, “OMG! Who is this?” And after you start bobbing your head to the beat (even though you really want to bust out your full dance party mode) you nonchalantly go over to the laptop or iPod and look. Chances are it was a song off of this album. Maybe it was “Electric Feel?” Was it “Time To Pretend?” Or could it have been “Kids?” What doe it matter? It may have even been a slower track like “The Handshake” but you were hooked and rightfully so. This album is all about being young and feeling alive. http://www.whoismgmt.com/

14.
Furr—Blitzen Trapper
When I first heard the song “Furr” my heart melted. I instantly became infatuated with this Portland, OR band and bought the album almost immediately. I was not disappointed. Even though the rest of the album was more on the classic rock side with a bit of a funky vibe combined with a modern twist (how is that for a description?) I was loving it. At times singer Eric Earley sounds like Bob Dylan, Neil Young, or Beck. However, he carves out his own sound and the band that backs him knows how to make a song more meaningful by playing flawlessly. As much as I love the title track I also became hooked on “Gold for Bread,” “Not Your Lover,” and “Lady On The Water.” Each song on this album could stand on its own, which is why when they are all together it just makes the entire thing amazing. http://blitzentrapper.net/

13.
Peaceful, The World Lays Me Down—Noah And The Whale
How can an album that sounds like sunshine pouring in your ears be so defeatist? This isn’t a break-up album. This is the album that comes months even years after the break-up that is still effecting you. In the first track, “2 Atoms In A Molecule” Charlie Fink sings, “And if love is just a game/Then how come it's no fun?/If love is just a game/How come I've never won?” This sets the tone for the next 42 minutes of this album. The songs then go on to discuss an imagined love affair (“5 Years Time”), the sting of an internet relationship (“Second Lover”), and how sometimes affections don’t match up at the same time (“Mary”). However, there is some hope. In the song “Give A Little Love” you are told “If you give a little love, you can get a little love of your own.” And isn’t that all anybody really wants? http://www.noahandthewhale.com/

12.
Always A Bridesmaid: A Single Series—The Decemberists
I know you are thinking, “Stefania, The Decemberists didn’t put out an album this year. Don’t they have one coming out in 2009?” And you are correct, my friends, however they did release a series of singles and released them in three volumes on vinyl or through digital download. Because this is my list I lumped them all together, and because these seven songs could have easily been an EP. And most importantly this is my list and I can do what I want. I make the rules. I call the shots. So accept it. The Decemberists made the list. And with songs like “Valerie Plame,” “Days Elaine” (both versions) and “Raincoat Song” why shouldn’t they be recognized for their 2008 musical contributions? Did I mention they also do a cover of the Velvet Underground’s “I’m Sticking With You?” Well they do. Enough said. http://www.decemberists.com/

11.
Youth Novels—Lykke Li
In 2008 Lykke Li was making quite a splash in the music scene. For a few months she was everywhere, and I pretty much rolled my eyes each time I saw her. I am not a fan of when people try to shove something down my throat (no matter how amazing it is). Sometimes I have to discover an artist on my own, and this may take a few months or a few years. But I have to be ready for it. I’m not saying don’t introduce me to new artists, but don’t assume I’m going to love it just because you and the rest of the world do. I am totally eating crow now. I was impressed by her song “I’m Good, I’m Gone” and that is what opened the door. KEXP played a heart wrenching in-studio version of “Tonight” and I fell for her. I took a chance and bought the album. I listened to it on the train, on the plane ride to Okla. and then on the plane back to Chicago. I felt it. I got it. I related to her songs more than I expected. I now understand the brilliance and why so many people kept pushing her on me. Thank you for your patience. Now I see. http://www.lykkeli.com/

10.
Friendly Fires—Friendly Fires
You may be most familiar with this band from a Wii Fit commercial. Their song “On Board” plays as people of all ages, shapes, and colors bend and move in front of their TV thanks to a video game. However, if these people bought this album instead of a video game system they could shed some pounds by having a dance party in their living room. And heck, invite some friends over and increase the fun. This English band put out a solid debut album. I instantly fell for “Jump In The Pool” when I first heard it and then knew this album was something special with tracks like “Paris,” “In The Hospital,” and “Lovesick.” I think this album can be appealing to a wide array of people, which is why they are used in commercials and can be heard on shows like Gossip Girl. Whether you like pop, dance, indie, or electronic music there is something that will draw you in. http://www.myspace.com/friendlyfires

9.
In Ear Park—Department of Eagles
When I first heard Department of Eagles’ song “No One Does It Like You” I knew I liked it. It had a familiar sounding singer and this kind of 60s-ish vibe to it. Turns out the singer is Daniel Rossen (of Grizzly Bear) and that this band is the product of two friends and former NYU roommates. When I heard other tracks like the vaudevillian inspired /old timey radio sounding “Teenagers” and the somewhat eerie “Phantom Other” that asks the question, “What would it take to make you leave?” had me going, “Am I really listening to this? This actually exists? Music like this is made? How do you make such beautiful sounds?” And that is just the tip of the iceberg. It just continues getting better track after track. I think one of my favorite songs is the dreamy track “Floating On The Lehigh.” This album is full of lush harmonies and sounds that just pull at you and make you want to listen all over again. http://www.departmentofeagles.com/

8.
The Seldom Seen Kid—Elbow
We all know I am a sucker for Elbow. I love them. In fact after seeing them live this year I was ready to pack up and move to Manchester. So after 3 years of waiting for a new album they released The Seldom Seen Kid in April I was bouncing off the walls. And I continued bouncing after I listened to it. The most recognizable track is “Grounds For Divorce” which was used in the trailer for the Coen brothers film Burn After Reading…which had me running to my phone every time it came on (this song is also my ring tone). I also became quickly obsessed with the song “The Bones Of You,” “Mirrorball,” and “The Loneliness Of A Town Crane Driver.” I wasn’t the only one who felt this was one of the year’s best. It won the Mercury Music Prize beating out other artists such as Radiohead, British Sea Power, Adele, Estelle, and others as the best album in 2008 from an artist from the United Kingdom or Ireland. http://www.elbow.co.uk/

7.
Vampire Weekend –Vampire Weekend
This album is almost a year old, but I still play it as if I got it two weeks ago, and I have a feeling I’m not the only one. If you haven’t heard them already, you will. I think people are still discovering these Columbia University grads’ sound and they preppy sweater tied around your neck style. Their music is infectious, catchy, and your grandmother probably even likes it. They are influenced by African and classical music, and their lead singer Ezra Koenig sounds a bit like Paul Simon. The stand out tracks for me are “A-Punk,” “M79,” and “Walcott” but really the whole album is great, and flows very well from start to finish. I also think this is an album that a year from now, 5 years from now, 15 years from now, etc. I’ll want to listen to, and the cool thing is I’m sure you will too. http://www.vampireweekend.com/

6.
Santogold—Santogold
Again, this is another artist who ended up on my “look into them” list. But this album didn’t take much convincing of myself to buy. I know that she gets compared to M.I.A. pretty often (at least in the beginning), but I definitely can tell there is a different style, a different vibe. And I dig it. I dig it like crazy. This album is a good mixture of dance, chill, and hip-hop...but in a weird way it is genreless. It again appeals to a wide range of people. You may have heard her song “Creator” on Entourage or “Lights Out” on the Bud Light Lime commercial. You may have first heard her voice on Mark Ronson’s album last year singing “Pretty Green.” Or maybe you recognize her as the girl singing along side Pharrell Williams and Julian Casablancas in the Converse commercials with their original song, “My Drive Thru.” Regardless of where you first saw or heard her, this is the album that is going to bring you into her camp. With all of her future projects and collaborations I’m excited to see what the future will hold for her and then how she can translate that into some amazing tunes. http://www.myspace.com/santogold

5.
In Ghost Colours—Cut Copy
This was another album I knew I had to get after writing down three songs on my “look into them” list. I don’t think any other artist this year caused me to have a bigger dance party in my cubicle each day at work. I don’t think you can listen to this music without getting up and moving. This Australian group makes music fun, and their live show was one of the most energetic and engaging I have ever been to. I don’t even know where to start in describing how this album of 15 songs just make life better. Could it be opening track “Feel The Love” that hooks you in with the robotic voice? The build up of “So Haunted?” Or maybe the way Dan Whitford actually has you believe it is you he is singing to you in “Hearts On Fire.” I wish I could adequately explain why this album is so good, but sometimes it’s tough to explain intense feelings. http://cut-copy.blogspot.com/

4.
Fate—Dr. Dog
Have you ever heard a song and you are just fixed on it for some reason even though it is something that you probably wouldn’t gravitate toward? Well that is how I felt after hearing “The Old Days.” It sounded amazing, but Dr. Dog? Seriously? I was into it? What? Am I becoming a hippie? Thank goodness I went with my gut and bought this album. I was immediately impressed. This album has a very timeless feel to it. If you said these songs are from 1877 or 1977 or present day I would believe you. The music on this album kinda reminds me of The Band. This album is well crafted and you can tell very well thought out. Again, use of beautiful harmonies and melodies just tie it all together. And lyrically the lines are moving and so heartfelt. My favorite has to come from “100 Years”: “And when I get off at Tennebrook Farm about 100 years from now/I'm gonna marry you out of common sense/And get out from behind this plow.” It’s so good I can hardly stand it! http://www.drdogmusic.com/

3.
Dear Science—TV On The Radio
So I am convinced everything TV On The Radio puts out is gold. Their previous two albums did very well and ended up being thought of best albums for the years they were released. And for some reason I always got them after the fact. A year or so after they came out, and just when I am excited and wanted to gush over them, others are like, “Stefania that was so last year!” So this time I wanted to be on top of it. When September 23rd rolled around I went to the record store and bought me Dear Science. And secretly I thought to myself, “You like the song “Golden Age” and there will be some other good songs, but surely this album will not be as good as Return to Cookie Mountain.” Uhhhh….I couldn’t have been more wrong. My God is this album amazing. From the opening track, “Halfway Home” to the last note of “Lover’s Day” I am wowed. My most favorite song is “Love Dog,” and for part of the year it was my theme song due to the line, “Patience is a virtue/Until it's silence burns you.” This album is brilliant. http://www.tvontheradio.com/

2.
Midnight Boom—The Kills
This album is on this list purely for it being the most badass of 2008. Good God! Could an album or a band be so cool? This album makes me want to drive fast, rob a bank, booze it up till 6am, shoot heroin, punch someone in the face, break hearts, and not regret a single moment of it. Okay, maybe not. But it does give me this empowering “I take no kind of shit from anyone” sort of feeling. I had to have listened to this album at least a bazillion times since I got it. I have always liked The Kills but this was the first album of theirs I bought. I saw the video for “U.R.A. Fever” and was intrigued, then I heard “Cheap And Cheerful” and was sold. Their song “Sour Cherry” was introduced to the masses via Gossip Girl. However, I think the stand out track for me is “Last Day Of Magic.” Wouldn’t you agree, “My little tornado, my little hurricano[?]” http://www.thekills.tv/

1.
Sun Giant [EP] & Fleet Foxes—Fleet Foxes
Now you are probably looking at this and saying, “Stefania you have an EP and an album at #1. Yes, they are from the same artist and yes, they both were released this year…but why are they both together as one entry?” And then answer is easy, my friend, it’s my list. Have you forgotten? Okay so it’s a bit unfair to lump two phenomenal works into one entry, but I am. Because in all honesty they could have combined both of these into one super album. But they didn’t and that’s okay, because with music this good does it even matter? Sun Giant is an appetizer of 5 songs preparing you for the main course that is Fleet Foxes. When I first heard “White Winter Hymnal” on KEXP I remember thinking, “Can anything be more beautiful? I haven’t heard anything like this before.” The harmonizing on that song and many others on the EP and album make Fleet Foxes who they are. And then when I heard “Your Protector” I knew that this album was going to be on my best of list for this year. The vivid storytelling, the rich sounds, the vocals…all make this EP and album hard to ignore. When I spoke earlier of finding a bearded beau and living in a mountain cabin this is the music I expect to be playing non-stop as we snuggle by the fire. http://www.myspace.com/fleetfoxes

xoxo,
Stefania

Happy Holidays!

2008-12-18T13:33:00.002-05:00

So my goal was to complete the last 2-3 show review/recaps before leaving for Oklahoma today so I could get my Best of 2008 post up when I got back. D’oh. Sorry to have let you down, Melt Your Face Off followers. I will not have consistent internet access while home, so I am going to have to wait to get all those goodies to you when I return to Chicago on the 4th.

I will promise the first entry of 2009 will be my Best of 2008. It might be good to have a few more weeks reviewing the albums and artists that got me through this year to determine who makes the cut and what order they will be in. It’s gonna be tough. I know I say that every year, but this year there was some good stuff. I hope you have a wonderful holiday season and that you have plenty of opportunities to listen to great music. See you in 2009!

xoxo,
Stefania

P.S. In the meantime enjoy a live version one of my favorite songs this year,
“No One Does It Like You” by Department of Eagles:

Madonna. Enough said.

2008-12-16T01:38:00.003-05:00

In July I receive an e-mail from my friend John that simply said, “I have tickets for Madonna. You in?” Without asking date or location I of course said, “Yes!” The show was going to be in October…October 27th to be exact. So I had to wait 3 months before seeing Madge with her super buff body prancing on the stage. Can do.

I like Madonna and have enjoyed dancing to her music since I was 5. In fact for Halloween in 1st grade I was Madonna (thanks to the vision of my big sister, Kathy). So I was excited to see her on her latest tour: Sticky & Sweet.

She played 2 nights in Chicago, and I went to the second night. Due to the magnitude of her show she played at the United Center. Beforehand, John, his mom, and our friend, Mike, went and grabbed pre-show drinks and apps. The bar we were at actually had a shuttle that would take us to the United Center. Excellent…since it was cold.

By the time we got to the venue it was packed. The crowd was no surprise, mainly women (of all ages) and gay men. There were a group of gals that were dressed as Madonna during her different phases. They were pretty spot on.

There was no opening act, I mean when you are an artist that huge and have a catalogue that could last for months, you are the only act people really want to see. Thanks to the site Madonna Tribe: http://www.madonnatribe.com I got the set list and some photos (thanks Joey and Allan!). However, this show was so choreographed and staged that it is the same show every night, maybe with a variation or two. This was the show:

Sticky & Sweet Set List

Intro/Candy Shop
Beat Goes On
Human Nature
Vogue

Video Interlude - Die Another Day
Into The Groove
Heartbeat
Borderline
She's Not Me
Music

Video Interlude - Rain/Here Comes The Rain Again
Devil Wouldn't Recognize You
Spanish Lesson
Miles Away
La Isla Bonita/Lela Pala Tute
Doli Doli (Live interlude - Romanian folk song)
You Must Love Me

Video Interlude - Get Stupid (About saving the planet)
4 Minutes
Like A Prayer
Ray Of Light
Hung Up
Give It To Me (Finale)

During the last part of the show she asked for an audience request. As you can imagine tons of people shouted various things, but the guy in the front was audible and he had a sign: “Dress you Up”:

As you can see she is playing the guitar. Throughout the show she would strum and lightly play. It’s like she just learned how and now she wants to show off that new skill. However, her backing band did most of the heavy lifting when it came to playing the musical instruments. She however sang and danced like she was 20. It was amazing how she has aged. Her arms are so intense!

This is how she took the stage in the opening. The chair revolved around and revealed her.

During “Beat Goes On.” She utilized many of her friends/collaborators in the videos throughout the night.

Ms. Spears giving a performance in an elevator during “Human Nature.” The video ended with Brit Brit saying her line, “It’s Britney, bitch!”

During “Vogue.”

The screens were showing very Keith Haring type artwork during “Into The Groove.”

Close up during “Into The Groove.”

Her costuming during the third part/costume change of her show. More colorful and Latin inspired.

The video screens during “You Must Love Me.”

Her look during the final part/costume change of her show.

I really had a fun time at her show, because everyone who was there was super excited and happy to be there. You could just feel the energy in the room. Also because it was a constant dance party. It was for us anyway. The girls sitting next to us barely moved. They just sat there. Who does that? You are at a Madonna show!

I think she did an excellent job of integrating her new album with some of her old favorites. I was super excited and surprised about “La Isla Bonita” and “Borderline.” I love both of those songs. It must be tough trying to decide what songs will be done on each tour. There is definitely a theme she works off of. As you can tell by the pictures there is no room for error. Being my first Madonna show I wasn’t disappointed. Even though the tickets were expensive I really felt it was worth it. I can now say I have seen Madonna live. One more music titan I can cross off my list. Now to focus on U2…

xoxo,
Stefania

"And we've been lost for so long..."

2008-11-24T23:00:00.001-05:00

So for over a month I have been obsessed with the NYC based band, Violens (“vy-lenz”): http://www.myspace.com/violensmusic and it all started with their video for their song “Doomed.” According to their lead singer, Jorge Elbrecht, the song was inspired by coral reefs and this really pretty girl he knows.

Why is this video so brilliant? It matches the song so well. It sorta has this whole Virgin Suicides feel to it. I love how the girls are just going about their normal day-to-day business and you know something is up. You get somewhat of an idea when the short haired blonde takes some photos, but it all comes together when the last girl arrives, some sort of Winston Wolf problem solver. I love the feeling of “What next?” and us not really knowing.

xoxo,
Stefania

"Tell me anything you want, any old lie will do..."

2008-11-19T17:45:00.003-05:00

On Sunday October 12th I went to the Metro to see Seattle based band, Fleet Foxes http://www.myspace.com/fleetfoxes Since I didn’t see much of their set at Pitchfork, I was super excited to see their show. Also since the summer I had gotten their debut album, Fleet Foxes, and became obsessed. It is the perfect album for this fall-wintery weather. It just makes you want to sit on the couch with a warm beverage under a comfy blanket in front of a fireplace. It is such a great album, and will definitely be in my best of 2008 list.

The opening act was a guy named Frank Fairfield. He is like a more old timey Andrew Bird. It was just him and his guitar and banjo. I wasn’t blown away by his performance, but it was not something you see everyday. Watching him you felt as if it were 1932 and you are sitting on a porch somewhere in rural Kentucky. He also dressed and looked the part. http://www.myspace.com/frankfairfield

After Frank left the stage it took only a split second to turn the stage over and then the Fleet Foxes came on. Hooray! Since only having one album and EP, there weren’t a ton of surprises. The set list was pretty similar (some songs were in a different order) as when they played the Black Cat in DC. You can listen to the show here: http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=92089028 Thanks NPR!

They played “Sun Giant,” “Mykonos,” and “English House” from their Sun Giant EP. Then they played pretty much everything from Fleet Foxes, there were a few omissions though. I think the highlight for me was when they played my three favorite songs (“White Winter Hymnal,” “Ragged Wood,” and “Your Protector”) back to back and it just flowed. It was brilliant. Someone actually got “White Winter Hymnal” and part of “Ragged Wood” recorded:

Since there were only a handful of songs to be played and most clock in at about 3 ½ minutes, there was a lot of time for banter. Now I love it when artists talk during the show to better connect with the audience. But it has to be brief, and then back to the music. Lead singer and guitarist, Robin Pecknold, was somewhat distracted anytime anyone shouted something. He and the rest of the band are charming enough that you found them endearing, but sometimes it went on too long for my taste. An example, and although it was funny, was when Robin asked if Barack would be a good president (the show was pre-election). The crowd cheered and then someone shouted, “Better than McCain.” Then Robin was like “Yeah and Sarah Palin.” Then he said that a potato would be better than Palin. We all had a chuckle. Then he also went on and said, “Oh I’m sure Barack would be a good president. He’s done a lot for your state and for corn.” Then someone yelled “Corn is better than McCain” and someone else yelled “Corn for President!” Robin then said “Really? You would rather have corn as a president over McCain?” The crowd cheered and laughed. He then went on and said, “That would be funny to have a bowl of corn leading us.” And it would be if you think about it. Then Robin went on a tangent and said, “Not many songs written about corn.” Someone in the audience yelled “Jimmy Crack Corn.” And he said something about that song. Then various songs were mentioned from the band and the audience. Then the keyboardist said, “What about that song from Pocahontas? Then Robin started singing, “Have you ever seen the wolf cry to the blue corn moon?” and the crowd went nuts. That then led to a brief conversation on the film’s historical accuracy and then some banter about Disney films and how Robin said after Mulan he lost interest. Then they started playing a song.

Robin also drank a lot of water during the set. Either he was dehydrated or hung over, maybe both? But there were moments where I was like, “Is he done drinking yet?” Just a random observation.

New song, “Silver City” (and you can hear some of their “what we ate for dinner” banter at the beginning):

I really enjoyed Fleet Foxes, random banter and all. They put on a good show and I look forward to seeing them again next time they come to town. Hopefully though they will go home after the European leg of their tour, relax, and get started on a new album.

xoxo,
Stefania

P.S. Official videos!

“He Doesn’t Know Why”

“White Winter Hymnal”

Rowrrrr!

2008-11-05T01:47:00.000-05:00

Why do I feel like such a cougar whenever I see The Last Shadow Puppets? I mean both Alex Turner and Miles Kane are 22 years old…only 6 years younger than me. Maybe it is their boyish charm and good looks combined with their skinny British-ness and brilliant music making. Sigh. Whatever it is my legs just get all buttery. Meeeeoooow!

“The Age of the Understatement”

“Standing Next to Me”

“My Mistakes Were Made for You”

xoxo,
Stefania

Official site: http://www.thelastshadowpuppets.com/

"That's the living..."

2008-11-04T23:57:00.000-05:00

Before I left for Italy my friend had invited me to see James at The Vic the week I got back. I said I would go if tickets were still available. I wasn’t really sure if I wanted to see James live, but thought, “Hey, why not? I like the songs I know and they don’t tour the states that often.” I think the last time they were in the states was almost 10 years ago. Plus, KEXP was playing songs off their new album Hey Ma and they were pretty good. And of course, I’m always open to seeing bands that are the all time favorites of my friends.

My first encounter with James was probably very similar to yours. In 1993 they released a single called “Laid” and for many this is the only song they associate with this Manchester band. For years after its release it was used in commercials, movie trailers, and will be on 90s compilation CDs until the end of time. It is also burned into my memory as the song that makes gaggles of girls in bars get super excited and rush the dance floor, tube tops a fallin’, to shake their bums as they yell “This bed is on fire with passion and love.” Ahhh memories of Georgetown…

So why not go see this band? Their career has spanned 3 decades and has a strong following. My friend also told me his best friend from Alabama was coming up for this show. They are such super fans they were also going to Milwaukee the next night to see them. I, however, only know a handful of their songs: “She’s A Star,” “Sit Down,” “Laid,” and my all time fave “Getting Away With It (All Messed Up)”…all of which they played. Oh and the new songs I’ve heard, “Hey Ma” and “White Boy.” For those of you who are interested in the setlist:

1. Dream Thrum
2. She's a Star
3. Oh My Heart
4. Waterfall
5. Ring the Bells
6. Hey Ma

7. Bubbles
8. Say Something
9. Five-0
10. I Want To Go Home
11. Out To Get You
12. Upside
13. White Boy
14. Laid
15. Sit Down

16. Sound
17. Top of the World
18. Getting Away With It (All Messed Up)

19. Sometimes

I think the encore started at “Top of the World.” One song I ended up really liking was “Sometimes.” They really involved the crowd and had as singing along. The crowd itself was also really great and you can tell they were super excited to be seeing James after so many years. Everyone was singing along and dancing around. It was great. They were also older, I think I may have been one of the youngest people there, but I wasn’t too surprised by that.

Another thing about this show was this was the first time I sat in the balcony at The Vic. Normally I go to shows solo (sad violins enter here) and so once I find a spot I stay put. However, this time around we sat in the balcony. It was a good spot, but I think the floor is where it is at in that venue. I really like how there are different levels in the floor so you are elevated and everyone isn’t all the same plane. But I am glad I got to see what a show was like in the balcony.

I really liked James live. I can’t say I would rush to go see them again, but it was definitely a memorable show and I enjoyed myself.

xoxo,
Stefania

James website: http://www.wearejames.com/

Baby!

2008-10-10T20:40:00.000-04:00

So I think this has to be the cutest video for a song about an almost accidental (or is it intentional?) pregnancy with your aspiring country-music star, ramblin’ man sorta boyfriend. Because in all honesty ladies, who hasn’t been there?

“We Almost Had a Baby”—Emmy the Great

xoxo,
Stefania

Even Italians like Miley Cyrus!

2008-10-09T20:57:00.005-04:00

For the first two weeks of September I was very lucky to go on a family vacation to Italy to do some touristy stuff and visit more family. The last time I was in Italy was almost 10 years ago (1999). Anytime I leave the country, whether it’s across the pond or close by like Canada, I always like to know what music is big there.

During our trips to Italy in the 80s and early 90s, there were a few artists that were big in both there and at home…Madonna and Bon Jovi leading the way. I think 1994 is when the gap started closing. This partly could have been because that was the year we discovered MTV UK on our grandparents’ TV. That summer I think we saw the video for “Black Hole Sun” by Soundgarden anytime we put it on that channel, which was also being played on MTV at home. However, I do recall discovering a boy band called Take That, and their song “Back For Good” being on heavy rotation, and you may recall this song as it was their only US hit. This video also introduced my 14 year old self to the beauty that is Robbie Williams.

In 1999, the gap seemed even closer. However, MTV UK had been switched for MTV Italia, and so more Italian artist were played along side the American and British Acts. Again, Robbie Williams was on the screen, however this time as a solo artist. The video for “Millennium” was popular and was on what seemed like every 10 minutes. Even though the song and album were released in the States, it wasn’t as big of a success. Another song I remember seeing the video for was Skunk Anansie’s “Secretly” which was used in the movie Cruel Intentions.

So this time around I knew there would probably be no gap in what was big here and what would be big over there. According to Death Cab For Cutie, “Information travels faster in the modern age” and I couldn’t agree more. Due to the internet, mainly, anyone can find out what the number one song is in any country, discover the latest bands through sites like MySpace, or network with other fans across the globe and file share. And I was right, the music that is being played on top 40 radio here in the States is the same music being played on the radio and MTV Italia. I loved watching their TRL to see what was hot. There were some Italian artists on the countdown, of course, but you saw the familiar tween favorites Miley Cyrus (“7 Things”) and Jonas Brothers (“Burnin’ Up). Summer hits like “Disturbia” by Rhianna, “Viva La Vida” by Coldplay and “I Kissed A Girl” by Katy Perry were also in heavy rotation. One video that was also played a lot was “Sex On Fire” by Kings Of Leon.

At first I was surprised to see it on during the morning mix or even on TRL, but then I remembered that KOL always seemed to have a bigger following in Europe.

Another thing I ended up watching part of on MTV Italia was this special on German sensation Tokio Hotel. If you are unfamiliar with this band, just ask any 14 year old with jet black hair at Hot Topic. I first found out about them in April when my friend Morgan said her 15 year old cousin was coming up from Kansas City to see them here in Chicago (one of their only US dates) However, they never made it due to vocal problems. Mascara and eyeliner ran for days once this news was announced, I’m sure. What was even funnier was my cousin, Alice, had lead singer, Bill Kaulitz’s picture as her cell’s wallpaper.

However, if I had to pick one song that I will associate with this trip it would have to be The Ting Tings’ “Great DJ”

It was played everywhere, no matter what city we were in. I heard it on the radio. I heard it in stores. I saw the video plenty of times. I think I even heard it as a ring tone. I really like this song, so if something was going to be stuck in my head, I’m glad this was it.

xoxo,
Stefania

P.S. Oh another random music moment from my trip was when we were at Heathrow on our way back to the states. We had to take a bus from one terminal to another. After the short video they show you about how to make your travels smoother, music started playing softly. It took me a minute to realize what it was because it was so low, but once I figured it out I looked at my brother and pointed up to the speaker. We then laughed. It was Pulp's "Common People." One of my all time favorite songs, but very random to hear on an airport bus...we were in London though!

KEXP and Pitchfork Music Festival

2008-10-07T02:18:00.001-04:00

So there was a week in July (16th-20th) where I was balancing my musical overload lifestyle with my regular life. I had just gotten back from one of my leadership institutes and I was preparing for the KEXP visit and Pitchfork Music Festival.

My favorite KEXP DJs, John Richards and Cheryl Waters, were going to broadcast live again from Engine Studios in Wicker Park for 3 days (July 16th-18th) and have some great in-studio performances from Chicago-land and beyond. Since I had just gotten back from a work trip I wasn’t able to volunteer all three days like I wanted to. Instead I was only at Engine on Friday. Since last year, I have moved up in my volunteer duties for the in-studios and served as the “creative assistant” specifically working with Jim Beckmann, who is in charge of the blog.

But before I move on to Friday…On Wednesday the 16th we had our listener appreciation party at Darkroom making it a bonus Equalizer for the month. I was on hand as the “KEXP Girl” sitting behind the table handing out swag and giving info out about the station. Here I am with another volunteer, Michelle, giving away a sticker:

(Photo by Jeremy Farmer)

To read about the event, check out Mike Turner’s post on the KEXP blog: http://blog.kexp.org/blog/2008/07/23/equalizer-showcase-darkroom-chicago-7308-kexp-listener-party-with-catfish-haven-au-sleep-out/

Back to Friday…I was going to be working with Jim on the blog, my specific role was transcribing all of the interviews with the artists. Now this sounds really cool, I mean I got to sit in on the interviews and be the fly on the wall. However transcribing is tough! Especially for a quasi-perfectionist like me. But I did have fun and it was a new experience for me. I ended up transcribing the interviews for The M’s: http://blog.kexp.org/blog/2008/07/18/live-in-chicago-day-3-the-ms/, David Vandervelde: http://blog.kexp.org/blog/2008/07/18/live-in-chicago-day-3-david-vandervelde/, and The Occidental Brothers Dance Band International: http://blog.kexp.org/blog/2008/07/18/live-in-chicago-day-3-the-occidental-brothers-dance-band-international/. Overall the day was great and it was fun being back in the studio watching the “magic” happen.

The Friday volunteer group with KEXP staff
(photo by Jeremy Farmer)

Friday night kicked off the Pitchfork Music Festival at Union Park, however, I had just volunteered to work on Saturday. KEXP was an official sponsor of the festival this year and so they needed volunteers to be at the table answering questions and handing out swag…the things I do for Equalizer. Since I am still not a fan of festivals I thought I’d give it a shot from another angle. I did pick to work Saturday since the line-up had more acts I wanted to see and after my shift I was free to enjoy the festival. So I took the earliest one and was in charge of set-up. The unfortunate thing about Saturday was that it rained for most of the day. Yuck! Here I am (in the green dress) setting up:

(photo by Jeremy Farmer)

When my shift was over I met up with some friends to check out some of the acts. I actually had several groups of friends who were going to be there, and I tried my best to balance all of them. Of course midway through my day I was granted VIP status, not by KEXP, but by another vendor that was close to the KEXP booth. It pays to be cute and flirty my friends. Not that I was looking to get VIP status, but if an attractive guy asks if you want a laminate and a wrist band you too would probably say yes. What was also great was that a group of my music industry friends (managers of bands, the bands themselves, and journalists) also had VIP status so I could hang out with people behind the gated-fancy pants part. However, the VIP stage area sucked. You were on the side of the stage (which sounds great) but actually wasn’t since you couldn’t really see the band, or if you did you might see a few members here and there. But I got as much free beer as I wanted. Whoo! Being sarcastic there, my dear friends.

I was not as stressed out about actually seeing acts, which normally causes me to not enjoy festivals. This time I was very go with the flow and would just wander around with friends from stage to stage. To be honest it would be best to say I caught a few songs from: Fleet Foxes, Vampire Weekend, The Hold Steady, and !!! The only act I made sure I saw a majority of his show was Jarvis Cocker.

Overall Pitchfork wasn’t bad. I had some enjoyable moments and made the experience more about volunteering and spending time with my friends rather than making sure I saw this band or that band. I figured if I really wanted to focus on an act I would see them when they come back on tour…because they always do come back.

xoxo,
Stefania

P.S. Jeremy Farmer chronicled the KEXP in-studios as well as Pitchfork. Check out his pictures here: http://www.flickr.com/photos/farmdog/collections/72157606348692030/

"This one goes out to the one I love..."

2008-09-30T07:15:00.003-04:00

So in continuing my going to see act this year that have careers spanning decades (my third installment will come at the end of October with Madonna), on June 6th I went to the United Center with my friend Sam, his girlfriend Sara, and his friend Dave to see R.E.M. Sam and Dave are HUGE REM fans. So when Sam, who lives in Boston, called saying he was going to be in town for work (and what luck the show!) he asked if I wanted to go. I like R.E.M. and own a few of their albums, but I am hardly a super fan. But I knew they would put on a good show and they are an act that people give their right arm to see. I was excited for the show and what they would play.

The opening-opening act was The National. The first (and only time I saw them…we missed them due to flights being delayed…sad face) was when they opened for The Arcade Fire. We were all disappointed we arrived after their set.

The opening act was Modest Mouse. I was excited about seeing them, because for some reason I keep missing them when they come to town. However, they sounded off. I think the United Center (where the Bulls and the Blackhawks play) is entirely too large for their sound. Much of it was lost unfortunately. Also, they played many songs that were odd for a show in an arena with a crowd who probably only knows “Float On.” Well they didn’t play that one, instead they played “Satin In A Coffin,” “King Rat,” and “The Good Times Are Killing Me.” I was happy they played “Fire It Up” and “Fly Trapped In A Jar” even if the sound was bad.

I think we were all pretty eager by the time R.E.M. took the stage. Due to the amounts of super fans, I was able to find the set list online. Which is good because they played a lot from their new album, Accelerate, and I didn’t know much from it.

1. Living Well's the Best Revenge
2. These Days
3. Begin The Begin
4. What's the Frequency, Kenneth?

5. Pilgrimage
6. Hollow Man

7. Animal
8. Man-Sized Wreath

9. Ignoreland

10. The Great Beyond

11. Accelerate
12. Houston
13. Electrolite

14. The One I Love
15. Final Straw
16. Find The River

17. Let Me In

18. Walk Unafraid
19. Orange Crush

20. Horse to Water
21. Bad Day
22. I'm Gonna DJ

Encore:
23. Supernatural Superserious

24. Pretty Persuasion
25. Losing My Religion
26. Fall On Me (with Johnny Marr)

27. Man On The Moon

I really liked R.E.M. live. I can respect any band that has the longevity and fan base that keeps them going for almost 30 years. They also did not shy away from banter and Michael Stipe definitely did a lot of candid talking in between songs. At one point he thanked the city of Chicago for giving the country Barack Obama and then put on a campaign button. He also spoke of moments that inspired songs or to point out where in the crowd in between seats you can see the bottom level and his dressing room.

The visual show was also pretty great. As you can see in the videos above they utilized large screens that showed each member from different angles and had different effects. Similar to Radiohead’s screens.

I was super glad that they played “Orange Crush” and both “The Great Beyond” and “Man On The Moon.” I would have really liked to have heard “Strange Currencies” or “Nightswimming.” But with a new album and a back catalogue that could go for days, I completely understand they couldn’t play it all. Of course, I think everyone who was there wouldn’t have minded them playing all night.

xoxo,
Stefania

"Because I know today has been the most perfect day I've ever seen"

2008-08-23T17:41:00.001-04:00

So I am really, really behind on my entries. Like over 3 months behind. And partially it is due to this entry. Wow, that carries a lot of weight, huh? But it’s true. I have been waiting my whole life, well not my whole life, but a good chunk of it (a little over 10 years) to see this band. And on May 11, 2008 in Bristow, VA I finally got to see Radiohead live. My life is forever changed.

As soon as the word was out that Radiohead was going on tour I kept my eyes open for a Chicago date. Each day a big fat “TBD” was staring at me. My gut feeling was that their Chicago date was going to be Lollapalooza and that made me sad. The first time I see Radiohead should not be at a festival. I didn’t want to deal with all the other crap that goes along with the festival. I wanted to see Radiohead on their tour, with all the bells and whistles, they way they intended it. Then dates started appearing for a late spring tour…predominately located in the South, but only one Midwest date in St. Louis. Then I saw it Nissan Pavilion. Yes! Right outside of DC and on a Sunday night. Perfect a trip to the old stomping ground and time with friends. I then sent an e-mail to all my DC peeps, no takers but Brie. I love you, my concert buddy for life! Now to get tickets…

My friend here in Chicago, Tobias, is just as big of a fan and gave me the link to a site for a presale, however there was no time just a date. I gave the link to Brie and we started stalking for any clues of a time. Tobias said he was going to stay up all night and keep refreshing to see if the tickets would go on sale. He was going to try for the St. Louis show. I told him to call me as soon as they went on sale. All night there was no call. I woke up earlier than normal to refresh the page as I got ready for work. At 7:50am I decided to leave for the train. I am on my commute and then a text from Tobias came at 8:11am. Crap! I immediately text Brie. She doesn’t respond. Double crap! As soon as the train makes my stop I run to my office and turn on my computer and go to the site. SOLD OUT. I calm myself down and remind myself that the general sale is on that Saturday. I still haven’t heard from Brie. Then early afternoon an e-mail comes. She secured 3 tickets and do I want one. DO I WANT ONE? Plane ticket bought.

By the time I got to DC and enjoyed the weekend I was practically peeing in my pants when Sunday arrived. Brie and her boyfriend would drive us. The sky was getting dark and little by little the rain was falling. Thank goodness we had seats and not the lawn. By the time we parked it was pouring. We were drenched by the time we made our seats. The umbrellas were ineffective. We made it just in time to see the last few songs by opening act The Liars. I saw them last when they opened up for Interpol. I was unimpressed then, and my verdict had not changed.

After The Liars left the stage more of the crowd seemed to show up. It was still pouring and I was amazed that the lawn was also filling up. Dedication indeed. I know I was cold, wet, and anxious, but I can not imagine how those on the lawn felt.

We kept staring at the stage as they crew was preparing final details and discussed songs we hoped to hear. Then it went dark and the band started coming out. Now with a band like Radiohead they have massive amounts of catalogue to choose from. I did my best to keep track of what they played, but there are enough fans that have websites dedicated to track listings.

The set list was as followed:
1) All I Need

2) Jigsaw Falling Into Place
3) Lucky
4) 15 Step
5) Nude
6) Pyramid Song

7) Weird Fishes/Arpeggi
8) Myxomatosis
9) Idioteque

10) Faust Arp
11) Videotape

12) Paranoid Android

13) Just
14) Reckoner
15) Everything In Its Right Place
16) Bangers and Mash
17) Bodysnatchers

First Encore:
18) Like Spinning Plates
19) Optimistic
20) Karma Police

21) Go Slowly
22) Planet Telex

Second Encore:
23) Fake Plastic Trees

24) National Anthem
25) House of Cards

AMAZING!!!!! I included some videos that people took at the show to give you all a better idea of what the show was like. The visual aspects (lights, video screens, etc.) were nothing like I had seen before. I was blown away. The set list was also superb. They played a good selection hitting on many of their albums and focusing on their latest, In Rainbows. Apparently this was the first time they played “Paranoid Android” on this tour. What made it so fitting for our show (and you can hear it in the video) is the part where Thom sings “Rain down, rain down/Come on rain down on me…” everyone cheers and then sings along.

Some highlights for me were “Karma Police,” (this always reminds me of Euna and senior year of high school), “Pyramid Song,” “Just,” and “Fake Plastic Trees.” I also loved all the songs from the new album. Oh so good. I can’t complain about the set list. I would love to have heard “You And Whose Army?” either version of “Morning Bell,” “Wolf At The Door,” and “True Love Waits.” But maybe I’ll hear those next time. There will be a next time, and I know it won’t be another 10 years before it happens.

xoxo,
Stefania

Official Radiohead site: http://www.radiohead.com/

One of my favorite Radiohead sites: http://www.greenplastic.com/ and the set list and some reviews of the show I saw from that site: http://www.greenplastic.com/gigography/showDetails.php?showID=3733#setlist

Today would have been Elliott Smith's 39th birthday.

2008-08-06T12:44:00.003-04:00

From his official website, http://www.sweetadeline.net/:

the tide recedes but leaves behind bright seashells in the sand.
the sun goes down, but gentle warmth still lingers on the land.
the music stops, and yet it echoes on in sweet refrains…
for every joy that passes, something beautiful remains - m.d. hughes

Some of my favorite ES songs:

“Miss Misery”

“Waltz #2 (XO)”

“Son of Sam”

xoxo,
Stefania

"Yes, no, maybe is all I need to hear from you..."

2008-08-04T23:03:00.001-04:00

On May 8th I went to the Abbey Pub with my friend Tyler to see Cut Copy, http://cut-copy.blogspot.com/. Tyler is a huge Cut Copy fan and actually was the one to give me that extra push to go when I was wishy washy about seeing them…and I’m glad he did! Originally they only had only one show scheduled for 9pm. However, they added a second earlier show at 7pm and then the 9pm show was moved to 11pm. I was at the late show.

The opening acts were also pretty good and I was looking forward to seeing them as well. The opening-opening band was The Mobius Band, http://www.mobiusband.com/, and I have always liked their music, but never got that into them where own anything by them. I really like their song “Hallie” though. The opening act was Black Kids, http://www.blackkidsmusic.com/, and I was really interested in seeing them live. I love their song “I’m Not Gonna Teach Your Boyfriend How To Dance With You,” and was looking forward to hearing their other stuff. They were okay. Their songs sounded similar, but nothing was played that really blew me away.

By the time Cut Copy took the stage it was nearing midnight. I was really surprised they went on this late, but was hoping for a great show, even though I was getting tired. They immediately came out full of energy and started out with “Out There On The Ice” (which someone recorded—I wish I were that close!):

In the video you can hear all the cheering, screaming, clapping, and singing along…it was like this for the ENTIRE show. I kid you not. And there was tons of dancing. It was awesome. Such great energy not only from the band by the audience as well. There even was a moment when Dan Whitford (lead vocals) said that Chicago had the best crowd…ever. And you know what I believe him. EVERYONE left a sweaty hot mess, because we were all dancing and singing like there was no tomorrow.

I only own their latest album, In Ghost Colours, so I only knew those songs. The songs I recognized were “Lights & Music,” “Far Away,” “Feel The Love,” and my favorite “So Haunted.” I do know from Tyler that they did play songs off their first album, Bright Like Neon Love.

That had to have been one of the best shows I have gone to in a long time. I will gladly go see them anytime they come to town. Sadly, when they come back in Sept. I will be out of the country…next time. Thanks Tyler for telling me I need to go.

xoxo,
Stefania

“Lights & Music”

“Hearts On Fire”

Live version of “So Haunted”

Videos for songs I love

2008-07-21T22:19:00.000-04:00

I LOVE LOVE LOVE the song “Why Do You Let Me Stay Here” by She & Him. However, I am at a loss with the video. Uhhhh….why? There is so much more they could have done with this. Disappointed.

Another song that I adore is “No One’s Gonna Love You” by Band of Horses. This doesn’t fit at all. Again, so much more could have been done with this.

However, this is a silver lining to recent videos… Of course from the brilliance of Radiohead. In their video for “House of Cards” they use no cameras or lights. That’s right NO cameras or lights!

How did they do it? Well they made a video about that too:

Technology = AMAZING!

xoxo,
Stefania

"I think I…"

2008-07-05T11:38:00.001-04:00

So I am obsessed with “Oh No” by Kaiser Cartel right now.

Such a great song about the stages of a relationship, and I like how the video ties it all together with the string. I especially love the line, “I think I’ll eat you alive.”

Brilliant.

xoxo,
Stefania

http://www.kaisercartel.com/

http://www.myspace.com/kaisercartel

"It's too hard to stand aside, here's the love to stop your heart…"

2008-07-03T00:39:00.001-04:00

I am a HUGE Black Rebel Motorcycle Club (BRMC) fan. http://www.blackrebelmotorcycleclub.com/ They were my first show when I moved to DC, and I made it there despite a hurricane…there were about 20 of us in the 9:30 Club that night. Awesome! I continued seeing them live whenever they made it into town. Sadly, when I was in NYC last year I had to miss their show since I was moving the following day. So since being here in Chicago I have kept my eyes open for their tour to take them here. Then they came. However, I was out of town due for work Total sad face. But….

During the last week of April I noticed on The Duke Spirit MySpace page that they were coming to Chicago to play the Metro, opening for BRMC. However, when I went to the BRMC site and MySpace page the show was not listed. It wasn’t even listed on the Metro site. Thinking that they must have cancelled the date due to the next stop on their tour being in Europe, I was a bit bummed. But something told me to keep investigating. After hounding the Metro site and then leaving a message and an e-mail inquiry I still had no response. I then asked my friend-in-the-know, Arturo, about the show. A few days later the answer emerged: secret show, invite only, Jack Daniels sponsoring, and a link where I could RSVP. I heart you Arturo. Thank you!

This was another show that I had some friends and friends of friends in attendance. The lovely Victoria and Alessandra came as well as Arturo, and then each of them brought another friend or two.

Me, Arturo, and Griff proving that there is too much rock for one hand

Me, Victoria, and Alessandra. Oh and the guy in the back with the white beard is Michael Been (Robert’s dad) and member of The Call

I was super excited for this show. The Duke Spirit http://www.dukespirit.com/ opened for them, and I was looking forward to their set. I first took notice of them when I heard their song “The Step And The Walk” on KEXP. I fell for it instantly. Then one evening I was at my friend Tyler’s house and he was playing the most recent UNKLE album and I heard a familiar voice. They did a song with UNKLE called “May Day” that is absolutely brilliant. Overall they were a good live band. Many of their songs sounded similar, but they were , so great, so does it matter?

Once BRMC took the stage I was super excited. Hooray! They are such a solid band and their music is so good to my ears. They played songs from all 4 of their albums, as well as some B-sides, and 2 new songs. I can’t recall the entire set list, but from what I can remember they played: “Red Eyes And Tears,” “Spread Your Love,” and “Whatever Happened to My Rock 'n' Roll (Punk Song)” From B.R.M.C.; “Six Barrel Shotgun,” “Heart + Soul,” and “In Like The Rose” from Take Them On, On Your Own; “Shuffle Your Feet,” “Complicated Situation,” and “Promise” from Howl; “Mercy” from The Howl Sessions EP…one of my all time favorite songs; “666 Conducer,” “Weapon of Choice,” and “Berlin” from Baby 81; “20 Hours” from American X: Baby 81 Sessions EP…another song that blows my mind.

Victoria took plenty of photos, she is a professional, y’know: http://sprungphoto.com/

Peter Hayes looking badass

Robert Levon Been rockin’ it

The guys: Peter, Nick Jago, and Robert

One thing I always get excited about is when Peter busts out the trombone

Such a fun show. Even though the crowd was a bit random due to it being a free, private show where Jack Daniels flowed like water (brown liquor…ugh!), they were overall respectful and stayed out of my way. I love watching this band live and will always see them whenever they are in town.

xoxo,
Stefania

“Mercy”

“The Step And The Walk”

“My heart’s been troubled by the speed of love...”

2008-06-26T15:53:00.000-04:00

Hi. Yes, I am still alive. I know I have been slacking on my entries. Life has gotten in the way. Not necessarily a bad thing, but a lot has been going on and I haven’t made the time to get caught up on my blogging. Oh I am not asking for your pity or for a scolding. I’m here now and boy do I have some work ahead of me!

So on May 2nd I went to see Ghostland Observatory at the Metro. Originally I wasn’t going to go to this show, but after some thought and numerous friends saying they were going, I got a ticket. I really like Ghostland Observatory from what I have heard on KEXP (where I discovered them…obviously!) and missed them when they played Lolla last year. I was pretty excited and knew that this was a show I was going to be able to dance my booty off.

I went with my friends Stephanie (who brought her friend Tonya) and Tyler (who brought his friend Matty-O and he brought a gal pal). It was raining like crazy so by the time we all met up we were a little wet and had missed the first act. I love going to shows with people, but when you have to meet a group after a workday chances are you all aren’t going to be there on time. C’est la vie.

The show was sold out. Which I found odd because it wasn’t sold out until an hour or so before the show started. It was so packed that we had to stand in the back by the open doors that lead into the main floor area. It was such an awful spot. People coming and going, all up in your way. But I thought once the show started it would get better. Nope. Worse. Whodda thought? By the time the gents from Austin took the stage the crowd was ready. After being warned by multiple signs in the building that there would be “intense laser lights” I was looking forward to the light show as well.

I do not own any of the 3 Ghostland Observatory albums, I keep meaning to get the one that put them on my map, Paparazzi Lightning, but always get sidetracked with something else. However, you don’t need to own their albums or know all of their music to enjoy them live. They played my favorite song “Sad Sad City” as well as “Move With Your Lover,” and “Piano Man.” They do have a new album out called, Robotique Majestique, and I know they played “Dancing On My Grave” and “Heavy Heart.” From their first album, delete.delete.i.eat.meat, they played “Rich Man” (a crowd pleaser).

As for the light show…it was pretty good. Very fitting for their style and for the mood they were going for. However, on a whole I didn’t enjoy this show. Even though I had friends around me and a fun band on stage keeping the energy up, oh and dancing, the crowd overall were kind of d-bags. I also think it was largely due to the area of the venue I was in. I couldn’t see much. After the show I went to a house party where I met other people who were also at the show and had nothing but really positive things to say about it.

I am not sure if I would go see Ghostland Observatory again. I think the venue might have to be smaller or I just have to arrive early enough to get a good spot free of sweaty people ramming into me every 2 minutes and then not apologizing, free of beer getting spilled on me from every angle, or being by the door where a flow of people are constantly going in and out.

But good times were had regardless. I found some pictures that a guy named Jeff Woelker took. Looks like he was able to see:

I saw a lot of this during the show…but aren’t the lights pretty?

Oh, you say there are people on stage?

Oooh! Ahhh!

xoxo,
Stefania

http://www.trashymoped.com/

http://www.myspace.com/ghostlandobservatory

"When out of a doorway the tentacles stretch of a song that I know..."

2008-05-24T00:55:00.002-04:00

So once I got back home from Portland, it was back to the daily grind…work, TV, and more shows! On Tuesday, April 29th I got to see one of my favorite British bands: Elbow. I love, love, love them!

They were playing at Park West, which is literally 10 minutes from my house, and I got there early enough to get a sweet spot by the stage. Normally I don’t stand in front of the stage, because I don’t think the sound quality is that great and you can’t see the entire stage setup. However, since I went solo to this show I thought it would be less awkward for me. Not that I mind going to shows by myself, but this venue in particular makes it feel weird if you arrive early and are just standing by yourself in the middle of the floor. So by the stage it was!

The opening act were The Watson Twins. http://www.thewatsontwins.com Yes, those Watson Twins who backed Jenny Lewis on her album and tour. They have a new album coming out in June called Fire Songs and so most of the stuff they played was from that. I am not as familiar with their music, but from what I heard they are good. I really loved a song called “Fall” and they did a cover of The Cure’s “Just Like Heaven.” I found it odd that for the style of music they play that they would be opening up for Elbow, but hey, it worked.

I was so excited by the time Elbow took the stage. When they all came out they stood in a row all with trumpets in hand to start the first song of their set, “Starlings.” Awesome. After the horn part they went to their respective areas and continued playing the song. In addition to the regular line up they had two ladies with them with violins. It was a great start and I knew this show was gonna be good…and I was right.

They played (from what I can remember) “The Bones of You,” “Mirrorball,” “Grounds for Divorce,” “The Loneliness of a Town Crane Driver,” and “One Day Like This” all from the new album, The Seldom Seen Kid. From Leaders of the Free World they played the title track, “The Stops,” “Great Expectations,” “Forget Myself,” and “Station Approach (first song in the encore). They played less from their first two albums but did get a few songs in. From Cast of Thousands they did “Switching Off” and “Grace Under Pressure” (second song of the encore), and from their first album, Asleep in the Back, “Newborn,” and “Scattered Black and Whites” (last song in the encore). I loved the set list! They pretty much played all of my favorite songs. Well except for “Beats for Two” (see March 21st entry).

The band had great stage presence and Guy Garvey is known for his witty banter. He was very entertaining sharing stories and often times joking with the crowd in a loving way. Several times throughout the first hour of the show he would say, “Tonight is a very special night. Do you want to know why?” And after the crowd would yell yes or cheer, he would say, “We’ll tell you later.” And after building this moment he finally revealed that it was guitarist, Mark Potter’s birthday. Which at that point the entire crowd and band sang “Happy Birthday” and the two ladies who were playing the violins came out with a cake. Guy also informed the crowd that they have started a new tradition that whoever’s birthday it is while on tour, the birthday boy gets to pick most of the set list. Pretty cool.

Guy was also really good about interacting with the crowd and engaging us. Before starting “One Day Like This” he taught us the line “So throw those curtains wide. One day like this a year would see me right” in order to sing along and do grand arm movements while singing it. He also informed us that the phrase “would see me right” is a northern [England] colloquialism meaning “Be okay/alright.” Also during this song he shook people’s hands, and since I was in the front I got the two handed shake and direct eye contact. Who hoo!

Another fun and creative thing Guy did was before they played the last song, but before the encore, he explained that after this song we all knew what was going to happen, but in order for them to come back out for the encore he wanted us to sing a song to get them back out. He then asked the crowd what song we should sing, and made the stipulation that it couldn’t be an Elbow song. After several offers, he really liked the suggestion of The Muppets’ “Mahna Mahna.” He even broke the crowd up and had us practice it. The back of the house starting us off singing the “Mahna Mahna” part and the front of the house singing the “Do do da do do” part. And about a minute after they got off the stage the crowd started singing it. When they came back on the stage, they gave us applause. Too cute!

I wholeheartedly enjoyed this show and will always make the effort to see them live again. In fact after I got home I was so fired up I decided I needed to move to Manchester.

xoxo,
Stefania

“One Day Like This”

“And when I feel this way I really am with you…”

2008-05-22T02:34:00.000-04:00

So one of the shows I didn’t plan on going to see was Hot Chip. http://www.hotchip.co.uk I was visiting my bestie, Reggie, in Portland and because he knows I love music he asked if there were any acts I wanted to see while I was visiting. There were few that I recognized, but I said if I were going to see one I would want to see Hot Chip…and so we did.

On Wednesday, April 23rd we headed over to the Crystal Ballroom. http://www.mcmenamins.com/index.php?loc=2&category=Location+Homepage The Crystal Ballroom is a McMenamins establishment, a company that owns several bars, restaurants, and venues in the Portland area. They tend to take old buildings and with a lot of history to it and update it for use. The Crystal Ballroom was originally a dance hall, and over time it became a live music venue.

The one unique feature about the venue is the floor. It bounces. I don’t know how or why, but if you were to jump or bounce on it, it pushes back. It sounds odd, but it actually was pretty cool. And for a show like Hot Chip which has very danceable music, which means people would be moving around quite a bit. I was hoping the place would just go nuts. And they did!

Since this was an all ages show they put up this barricade in the middle of the room separating the 21+ crowd from those underage. The stage was on the underage side. But Reggie and I found a pretty good spot.

The opening act was a band called Free Blood. http://www.myspace.com/freeblood It is a guy (John) and girl (Madeline) duo who also plays electronic music, and sing/loosely rap over it. It was interesting, a little experimental. During this set some of the members of Hot Chip and crew came out onto the floor area to watch the show. No one really bothered them, which is always nice.

By the time Hot Chip came on the crowd was excited. I have to admit I don’t own any Hot Chip albums, and really only know a handful of songs. They do have a new album out, Made In The Dark, and I have heard some songs on KEXP, including “Ready For The Floor.” They did play familiar favorites from their first album, The Warning, like “Over and Over” and “I Was A Boy From School.”

Even though I couldn’t tell you what songs were played that night, I can assure you I enjoyed the show. They were energetic, interactive with the audience, and fun to watch. The music itself got you moving, and by the time the show was over I was smiling. I got to see a solid band at a cool venue. What a great unexpected, addition to my vacation.

xoxo,
Stefania

“Ready For The Floor”

P.S. Also during my first visit to the Pacific Northwest I got to visit the Doug Fir Lounge (another great live music venue) however we didn’t see a show there (next time).

I also got to go to Seattle for a day and visited the KEXP station and got a tour from Cheryl (so lucky and grateful for that)!

Also in Seattle I got to spend some time with Shannon (who also DJs for KEXP), and she took us to Sonic Boom Records where I got to use my membership card for the discount. Hooray!

Colin back in Chi-town

2008-05-19T00:21:00.000-04:00

So for the last month I have been to seven shows. Three of those seven shows I had not planned to go to, but the opportunity arose and so why not? Going to shows is awesome, but as you all can tell I‘ve been slacking on getting them posted on my blog. So I hope to crank out those entries as soon as I can.

My run of shows started on April 21st when I saw Colin Meloy at Park West. This is his 3rd solo tour and my first time seeing him this way. When tickets went on sale I ended up getting two hoping someone would want to come with me. I invited my friend Lynnae, who I met through improv classes, to join me. She had heard of the Decemberists and was told she would really like them, but hadn’t heard them. However, we have similar musical tastes (and in other stuff) that I thought she would enjoy the show. I was right!

For Colin’s solo tours he basically just plays Decemberists’ songs acoustic. So the set list was filled with some favorites as well as some new songs and covers. I can’t recall the order the songs are in, and I couldn’t find the set list online anywhere (I also did not look hard enough), but he started out with “Leslie Ann Levine” which I was super excited about since it is one of my faves. He also played:

O Valencia!
The Perfect Crime
Shankill Butchers
We Both Go Down Together
The Engine Driver
The Mariner’s Revenge Song
A Cautionary Song
Oceanside
Kingdom of Spain
Apology Song

Each solo tour he chooses an artist to cover and releases an EP of those songs. In tours past he has done Morrissey and Shirley Collins. For this tour he has decided on Sam Cooke. He played a very beautiful version of “Cupid” with harmonies provided by opening act, Laura Gibson. Sadly, I arrived late and only got to see part of her act, but she was pretty good.

He also played two new songs, one was still a work in progress. I cannot wait for the new Decemberists’ album. That means they will go on tour again. Hooray!

I’m glad I got to see Colin solo and be a part of a show that was more like a crowd sing-a-long. Everyone in the audience was a fan and that made the vibe extra fun. This tour was also in support of his new solo CD Colin Meloy Sings Live! which was recorded during his 2006 solo tour.

xoxo,
Stefania

Here is Colin singing “Oceanside” at Jackpot Records in PDX a little over a month before I saw him:

…in one minute

2008-04-10T22:58:00.000-04:00

I first discovered The DL Show (http://www.spinner.com/category/dl/) after my level 1 improv teacher (the talented and funny Will Hines) did an interview with Ted Leo as a human resource person:

Fun times!

However, I really love these “In One Minute” segments that cover a music genre:

Indie

Prog

Goth

Metal

Emo

Alt Country

So clever!

xoxo,
Stefania

"Today was gonna be the day…"

2008-03-25T22:35:00.000-04:00

Happy 30th Birthday MDK! Misses and kisses!

"Wonderwall"—Oasis

xoxo,
Stefania

Who killed the video star?

2008-03-23T19:56:00.002-04:00

I recently discovered the video for The New Pornographers song “Myriad Harbour”…one of my favorite songs of last year. Sadly, it is not what I expected or would hope for this song:

I love music videos. It combines two things I love: music and TV. How could it ever go wrong? But sadly it does. However, it can also go very right. Now, I know people point out the fact that MTV no longer shows videos, well except for that 1 hour from 4-5am on every third Thursday of the month. And MTV2 rarely shows videos, even though they were created just to show them 24/7. VH1 is also not focusing on videos anymore. I will say thought that at 3am on Sunday mornings they show some new stuff like Radiohead videos from In Rainbows.

So where does someone go to see new videos? MTV2 has a program called Subterranean that replaced my beloved 120 Minutes. It’s pretty good and you can see an archive of the videos they aired on their website. The Subterranean blog is also a pretty good place, and it is updated daily. Other blogs like Stereogum, Paper Thin Walls, and Pitchfork will post videos from time to time. You could always go to a site like YouTube and do a search of the songs/artists you like and see what is new, or go to the artists’ sites to see if they have posted anything new.

If you are really frustrated you can just take matters into your own hands and create your own videos for songs you like…in fact another music blog, Said the Gramophone, hosts a contest in which you create a video for a song you love: http://saidthegramophone.com/contest_winners.php Pretty clever.

I have come to the conclusion though if you want to see cool, new videos (or any videos for that matter) you have to be proactive.

xoxo,
Stefania

Take Away Shows

2008-03-22T20:34:00.003-04:00

I have fallen in love with these Take Away Shows from French blog La Blogothèque. The live sessions are shot in a spontaneous and improvised way, creating intimate and beautiful moments of pure emotion and unplanned surprises. They are mainly shot in Paris, but they also have some that were done in NYC and other US Cities. The artists perform as they are walking down the street, in a stranger’s apartment, or even in places like playgrounds and elevators. Such a fun, creative idea. Love it. See for yourself: http://www.blogotheque.net/spip.php?page=cae_all&lang=en

Some of my faves:

“Holy Chord”—Dappled Cities

“Jesus Saves, I Spend”—St. Vincent

“Nantes”—Beirut

“Walcott”/”One (Blake’s Got A New Face)”—Vampire Weekend

“God, Make Up Your Mind”—Cold War Kids

“Cowbell”—Tapes ‘N Tapes

“The Knife”—Grizzly Bear

xoxo,
Stefania

So not fair!

2008-03-21T19:13:00.001-04:00

Today my office closed early due to the unending snow that is falling from the sky and it also being Easter weekend. So I didn’t complain and am now sitting cozily in my bed wearing my fleecy PJ pants…ahhhh…oh and of course watching TV!

Earlier this month I was flipping channels and ended up watch a movie called Inside I’m Dancing or Rory O'Shea Was Here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Inside_i%27m_dancing

So again I am flipping channels and have landed on one of the many HBOs. The movie is on again. It’s a pretty decent flick, has some good moments, and James McAvoy is in it. However, during the end credits they play an Elbow song I had never heard of. After the first listen I immediately tried to find out where I could get it.

After doing some Wikipedia research I found out it is called "Beats For Two" and sadly it is unreleased. So not fair! If you get a chance to hear this song 1) be prepared to be wowed and 2) let me know where you found it. I would love to have a copy of it. Hopefully they will release it someday. Of course it is also 4 or 5 years old now.

Good news is I do get to see Elbow at the end of April. I cannot wait! I also cannot wait for the new album, The Seldom Seen Kid, to be released here in the States. I’m loving the single:

“Grounds For Divorce”

http://www.elbow.co.uk/

xoxo,
Stefania

“This is where I…”

2008-03-19T14:26:00.002-04:00

It is no surprise that after spending 5 minutes with me that one will discover I watch a lot of TV. I mean a lot. Thank goodness for the invention of the DVR/Tivo. One of the best ideas ever. I watch pretty much everything from reality trash to insightful documentaries/educational programs. I watch Italian soccer and your standard cable sitcoms and dramas. I pretty much watch it all regardless of the channel it is on. Hey good TV is good TV! One show that has really gotten me excited is WE tv’s High School Confidential:

http://highschool.wetv.com/

Even though this show is about to start it’s third week, I think it is one of the best shows on TV today hands down. Maybe it’s because the sociologist side of me dorks out on stuff like this. I have always had an interest in teenage girl culture, well since I was one. From books that describe the behavior of teenagers (Slut!: Growing Up Female with a Bad Reputation, Queen Bees & Wannabes…, etc.) to films like Mean Girls or even one of my all time faves, Heathers, we as a society have an interest in this stage of development.

The show also reminds me of my high school days and how much I grew as a person during those four years. It’s interesting to see that change and growth in the women featured on the show. I did enjoy my high school experience. I would never want to go back, but I look at that time fondly…even though I probably won’t go to my 10 year reunion this year. I am still close to the people I was friends with, and I’d much rather we all take a vacation someplace together. It'd be more fun.

I know this entry isn’t really music related, but I thought I’d share with you all this awesome show. It comes on Monday nights at 9pm CST.

xoxo,
Stefania

Best. Valentine’s Day. Ever.

2008-02-14T20:02:00.000-05:00

Earlier this week Radiohead released some of their North American tour dates. They all were in the month of May and mainly in the South! The list was still there that had other cities listed, including Chicago, with a big TBD by them. I was total sad face until I saw they would be doing a show in Northern Virginia…and it was going to be on a Sunday! Score!

My friend Tobias was kind enough to send me a link that offered a pre-sale and I immediately e-mailed my ultimate concert buddy Brie to give her the 411. The thing is there was no time listed on the page when the pre-sale would begin, but we knew the date of the pre-sale being today. Tobias was going to try and get tickets for the St. Louis show, and he was planning to stay up all night incase the pre-sale started. I asked him to text me once it went live, regardless of the time.

I woke up this morning and refreshed the page every 30 minutes as I was getting ready. I wanted to arrive at work early as well so I could keep checking. Around 7:50am, I decided to head to work, thinking that the pre-sale would begin at 10am EST. As I was sitting on the train Tobias texted and said the link was live, tickets were on sale, and that he had gotten tickets. “Crap!” I thought and immediately texted Brie. I heard no response.

As soon as I ran in the office I turned my computer on and went to the site. My heart sunk, “SOLD OUT.” My next hope was the general sale on Saturday. I was not defeated, but a little deflated.

Then this afternoon Brie sent me an e-mail saying “SUCCESS!” She had secured 3 tickets, and she of course offered the third one to me! HOORAY!!! She was smart enough to keep refreshing the page all day and ta-dah! She was able to get tickets.

So this is by far the best Valentine’s Day I have ever had. Radiohead has been number one on my list of acts to see, and I missed them while I was living in DC and NYC. I have been patiently waiting for this show. I couldn’t be happier. Of course I will still try to see them when they come to Chicago. But I will not see them if they are part of the Lollapalooza line up…which is a rumor around here. In any case I am on cloud nine.

I hope your day was just as good…

xoxo,
Stefania

One of my all time favorite Radiohead songs: “True Love Waits”

Side One/Side Two

2008-02-12T07:50:00.000-05:00

It’s a few days away from Valentine’s Day, and I’m still 1) not a fan of the holiday and 2) single. I mean even after the personal ad I created last year: http://meltyourfaceoff.blogspot.com/2007_02_01_archive.html Maybe I was too unrealistic in what I was looking for. But I truly thought the offer of a Green Card would be enticing. Guess not. But that’s okay. I’m still happy being fabulous and single, than just being with someone for the sake of having a relationship. I do, however, have some good news to report. Brie is no longer single. Sorry boys, someone beat you to her.

So this year instead of creating another witty ad, I’m just going to put it out there. Have you heard of music? You win! I’m yours! KIDDING! I know myself well enough that the man I end up with will have a few more hoops to jump through. Oh and some hot coals to walk on and broken glass to eat. Yes, I’m looking for a carnival freak. Again, kidding…unless you are a really good looking carnival freak who has heard of music…

But this post is not about me looking for love. Who wants to read about that? Not me. Instead I have been holding off on giving my glowing review of a book I read last year. Me, read a book? I know, I know…crazy! As much as I make fun of myself for not reading, I do read more than one would think. However, I still love the TV. Love it more than anyone really should. But I digress. The book I read last year is perfect for not only this lovey-dovey upcoming holiday, but it’s a good read at any time of the year. It called Love Is A Mix Tape and it’s by Rolling Stone editor/writer Rob Sheffield.

This book is awesome. As someone who made mixed tapes (in junior high, high school and part of college) and now mixed CDs, it just hit close to home. I must have looked like a bobble head reading this book, because I was nodding in agreement so much. So what’s it about? I would love to describe it to you, but the best place to learn more about this book is on the official website where you can read an excerpt, read the synopsis, go through reviews, and hear Rob’s voice reading some passages. http://www.randomhouse.com/crown/mixtape/

But for those of you who want to know, it follows the true story of Rob and how he fell in love with a gal named Renée. It also is a story about the power of music and how moments of our lives are defined by certain songs. And it also covers the art of making a mixed tape for someone or some occasion.

One reason I still make mixed tapes (actually CDs) is to continue my education and awareness of good music for my family and friends. I love putting together mixes and then waiting to hear back from the person I gave it to. What did you like? What did you not? What will end up being the song that leads you to buy an album? One thing that Rob does is explain the kinds of mixed tapes one could make. I loved this part in chapter 2. Probably because at one point in time I have made each of these mixes. Even the really embarrassing “You Broke My Heart and Made Me Cry and Here Are Twenty or Thirty Songs About It” mix. I will say from experience never actually give the mix to that person, and if you do be sure not to include a 4 paged typed letter about how you feel. Bad news bears!

But it’s true. There are songs that remind you of a year, a person, a moment in time, etc. If you think about it, we each have our own unique soundtrack. If you were to make a mix of those things you’d have a musical biography.

If you are looking for a moving, funny, and touching book then I highly recommend Love Is A Mix Tape. It’s a short, quick read (at least it was for me since I couldn’t put it down) and a great gift for any music lover.

xoxo,
Stefania

“I believe in love, but it don't believe in me…”

2008-01-13T22:25:00.000-05:00

So while I was “home” for the holidays, and I put home in quotes because I didn’t go back to Okla. this year. My fabulous sister and her equally fabulous husband offered to host the fam at their home in Austin (well the ‘burbs of Austin, but still a quick car ride to downtown). I was very excited. I even went down a few days before to spend some quality time with my friend Abbie, before she headed home to Maryland for the holidays. Not only did I get my food fix: BBQ (brisket), Tex-Mex (flautas), and Sonic (vanilla Dr. Pepper), I also got to better explore Austin. I’m already missing Amy’s ice cream (Mexican vanilla!).

After all the holiday hub-bub, my sister, brother-in-law, and I went downtown Saturday night (12-29) to La Zona Rosa to see the Dallas based band the Old 97’s play. http://www.old97s.com/ I was really excited and curious to see them live. They have a huge following (they have been around for 15 years and have 9 albums), and people always talk highly of their live shows.
To be honest with you I only know a handful of their songs. I actually am more familiar with lead singer Rhett Miller’s solo stuff. But I always like discovering new stuff, even if everyone else already knows about it.

The show over all was great. We arrived as the opening act, Billy Harvey http://www.billyharvey.com/, was playing. It was just a guy and guitar thing. He was okay. Wasn’t feeling him too much, but he wasn’t bad. He kinda reminded me of Ben Folds. Not sound, but looks. I think it was the glasses.

When the Old 97’s took the stage the crowd went wild. There was tons of energy, and they really took that and put on a good show. Sadly, I don’t know the titles to many of the songs they played. I tried to find a set list, but haven’t had luck in finding one. I know they played “Rollerskate Skinny,” “Designs on You,” and “Murder (Or A Heart Attack).” Then for the encore Rhett came out and did two of his songs “Come Around” (my favorite!)

and “Question.” Oh how I love that song too.

All was great with the show except for this group of super tall, drunk and high guys who stood in front of us in the middle of the show. You know when people are moving through a crowd and you think they will just keep moving, but they don’t? This is what happened. At one point one of them started talking to me and offered his shoulders to sit on. I politely declined. They got pretty annoying quickly. However, the rest of the people around us also felt the same way so it’s always fun to roll your eyes with a stranger when someone you don’t know is being an ass. You build that concert camaraderie. It was nice though every time they went to go get beer. It offered some relief and a view of the stage.

I’m glad I got to see the Old 97’s. They were great and it was nice to see a show in a venue I haven’t been in before. I’m also glad my sister and brother-in-law also came with me. I will definitely have to go see more shows with them. I mean they are in Austin after all!

xoxo,
Stefania

My Best of 2007

2007-12-24T00:44:00.000-05:00

I had a tough time assembling my best of list this year. Not because of the lack of music, but because there was so much. Once I had narrowed it down, putting them in a ranking order was even tougher. This year’s albums were released from some of my all time favorite artists, as well as some newcomers I hope to hear from again soon. I keep looking over this list though and think, “Did I leave someone off? Am I sure I put them in the right order?” But at some point I had to let it go. These are all solid albums, and worth checking out in 2008 if you didn’t in 2007.

16.
Anytown Graffiti—Pela
This Brooklyn based band’s album made an impression on me. From the music to the sometimes inaudible lyrics, I just really liked the songs on this album. I first heard “Tenement Teeth” on KEXP and was like, “Yeah, this band rocks.” It wasn’t until I heard other songs like “Lost To The Lonesome” and “Waiting On The Stairs” that I was a believer. KEXP also plays this great version of “Lost To The Lonesome” called “Lonesome Hearts” which is a remix by Cassettes Won’t Listen. Oh so good. http://www.pelamusic.com/

15.
We Can Create—Maps
Were you looking for a dreamy, shoegazer, British album this year? If so let me introduce you to We Can Create by Maps. A bit The Clientele, a part Spiritualized, and a tad Low this band combines electronic-y beats with more traditional rhythms and soft breathy vocals. The first album of this Northampton man (James Chapman, he gets some peeps together when he tours) also made enough of an impression to end up being nominated for the 2007 Mercury Prize. My fave tracks? “You Don’t Know Her Name” and “To The Sky.” http://www.mapsmusic.com/

14.
All Hour Cymbals—Yeasayer
Is it odd to think that one of the year’s best albums is also the first album of this Brooklyn based band? That as you are reading this many people still will have never heard them? Maybe if one of their songs ends up on an iTunes commercial they will be an overnight sensation…but I can’t think of a song that the silhouettes could jam to. So let’s just keep it in between us, okay? This album is considered in the genre of “world” on iTunes. Do I really own a world album? Whudda thought? Anywhoo, for one of the most inventive, thoughtful, and creative albums of this year I turn to All Hour Cymbals. This album flows with a distinct middle, beginning, and end. When I first heard the song “2080” I was hooked from the drum beat to the children singing at the end. The vocals that Chris Keating provides are fitting for the eclectic beats and chorus-y chanting. It also is great to listen to while traveling. Maybe this is where that “world” label comes in. http://www.yeasayer.net/

13.
Transparent Things—Fujiya and Miyagi
This three piece group from Brighton really knows how to make a booty wiggle. When I first heard their track “Collarbone” on KEXP I couldn’t help but have a mini dance party in my cubicle. Then when I got the album I think I was having a full blown dance party. However, this is also the perfect album to listen to as you are relaxing or running errands around town. I also love other tracks such as “Ankle Injuries” and “In One Ear & Out The Other.” Another plus about Fujiya & Miyagi is they a great live act. http://www.fujiya-miyagi.co.uk/

12.
Under The Blacklight—Rilo Kiley
I really liked the fourth album of this LA based band. A bit funkier and dancier than some of their albums I fell instantly for it when I heard the bass line of “The Moneymaker.” It was also nice to have a new Rilo Kiley album after a few years of successful solo projects from Jenny and Blake. I love the tracks “Silver Lining,” “Dreamworld,” and “Breakin’ Up.” Some fans disliked the direction they took with this album, but I think it was a bold move and you can tell they just had fun with the songs. http://www.rilokiley.com/splash/

11.
Writer’s Block—Peter Bjorn and John
I think those who knew about PB&J towards the end of 2006 felt like they were part of this cool kids club. I mean Drew Barrymore wore their shirt when she hosted SNL. So by the time the album was officially released (in the US in 2007) it felt as if I had been hearing gems like “Young Folks,” “Amsterdam,” and “Objects Of My Affection” a lot longer than I actually had. There was a point this year where I was like, “Will I ever get tired of this album?” The answer is no. It’s still in heavy rotation on my iPod. http://www.peterbjornandjohn.com/

10.
Wincing The Night Away—The Shins
I think the novelty of The Shins being a reason Garden State was thought to be a good movie is over (hopefully). For those of us who knew that this band made music that was life changing before Natalie Portman put headphones on Zach Braff’s head were pleased that the guys had released another album. However, for the Garden State crowd it was I’m sure it was just as good. I mean with songs about a small town lesbian teenage couple (“Phantom Limb”), getting your bearings on a relationship (“Sea Legs”), and realizing your shortcomings (“A Comet Appears”) are life itself, no need to change. http://www.theshins.com/

9.
Version—Mark Ronson
I bought this album when it came out this summer and I think it was the one I played the most as I spent most of my time driving between Chicago and Indiana. Sure these songs are all covers, or “versions” of familiar favorites, but my goodness can this boy make an album. Utilizing friends and new discoveries Mark put together a fun, feel food album that makes you want to dance, sing along, and revisit the originals. Each artist put their own style to each of the songs whether it was Lilly Allen covering Kaiser Chiefs’ “Oh My God,” Amy Winehouse covering The Zutons’ “Valerie,” or Alex Greenwald (of Phantom Planet) singing Radiohead’s “Just.” The track that got the most play was Daniel Merriweather covering The Smiths “Stop Me If You Think You’ve Heard This One Before” that leads into The Supremes “You Keep Me Hangin’ On.” Brilliant. But I think my favorite would have to be Paul Smith of Maximo Park doing a version of his band’s song “Apply Some Pressure.” I liked it so much I made it my ring tone. http://www.markronson.co.uk

8.
Baby 81—Black Rebel Motorcycle Club
I love BRMC. Love, love, love them. There are a few great rock bands out there today and I think they are one of them…hands down. When Baby 81 came out I was super excited. After hearing tracks like “Weapon Of Choice,” “Berlin,” and “666 Conductor” on their MySpace page before the release I knew this third album was not going to disappoint. I’ll be honest, it isn’t much of a departure from their other albums, but I really don’t care. They know how to create a powerful album that not only rocks you but moves you too. From start to finish there is an energy that runs through this album. It’s electrifying and the more you listen to it the more you are entranced. http://www.blackrebelmotorcycleclub.com/

7.
In Rainbows—Radiohead
Technically this album could also be in the Best of 2008 list since it will be physically released on January 1, 2008. However, Radiohead released it to those with a computer and a credit card in October. The album that sparked conversation and debate amongst the music industry, was actually easy to take after first few listens. Some previous Radiohead albums for me have taken years for me to really “get it” and for the songs to sink in. In Rainbows reminded me of The Bends era Radiohead, but updated. The song “Jigsaw Falling Into Place” had me instantly. After that other tracks like “Bodysnatchers” and “Weird Fishes/Arpeggi” had me returning. I’m glad that I liked this album so easily, and that they are continuing to be their innovative selves. http://www.radiohead.com

6.
Cassadaga—Bright Eyes
For someone who has been in the musical spotlight since he was 14, I think Conor Oberst has figured out what works for him to making creative, moving, and timeless music. When I first got Cassadaga I was 1) excited about the album art and 2) blown away by the storytelling set to this alt-country rock music. From “Four Winds” to “Soul Singer In A Session Band” to “Classic Cars” you can visualize these characters as he paints them in your mind. And then there is the classic Bright Eyes that come across in songs such as “Make A Plan To Love Me” and “Lime Tree” that wrap around your heart and just squeeze it enough to make it ache. http://www.thisisbrighteyes.com/

5.
We Were Dead Before The Ship Even Sank—Modest Mouse
There is a reason people love Modest Mouse: they are awesome. This album actually surpassed my expectations. I knew that I loved “Dashboard” the moment I heard it (and then once I saw the video) and thought that I may like a handful of other songs, but when I realized that I could listen to this album from start to finish, I knew it was more than just a good album. Songs like “Fire It Up,” “Florida,” “Fly Trapped In A Jar,” and “Spitting Venom” solidified that this album had to be on this list. Oh and how can I forget “Little Motel” the song that lyrically had me, but just pushed me over the edge once I saw the video? Well done, Modest Mouse, well done. http://www.modestmouse.com/

4.
Our Love To Admire—Interpol
My love for Interpol runs deep. So I was super excited about their new album this year. When Our Love To Admire made it into my hands I think it was the only thing I listened to for the next month. Each day I think I had a new favorite song. This album to me seemed very grand, bigger, and loftier than their last two albums. They still very much have that Interpol sound, but there is a maturity to this album. It also is a very relationship-y album to me. Each of the songs describe a relationship at different points from infatuation to lust to romance to sacrifice to being over it…sometimes they can be all rolled up in one song. Interpol is just one of those bands I will probably never get tired of. And when you listen to songs like “Mammoth,” “No I In Threesome,” or “The Heinrich Maneuver” you can see why. http://www.interpolnyc.com/

3.
American Doll Posse—Tori Amos
I was literally counting down the days until this album came out. Like all Tori albums this one was just as thought out and well packaged. The story behind this album is centered around 5 women (the Dolls) who have something to say about the state of affairs today. Songs that talk about politics (“Yo George”), the way technology is taking over (“Digital Ghost”), finding a way to survive (“Teenage Hustling”), or being a hot mom (“Big Wheel”). At 44 years old and 9 albums there seems to be no stopping her. http://www.toriamos.com/

2.
Cease To Begin—Band Of Horses
In 2006 I put Band Of Horses’ album Everything All The Time on my best of list. I think it is a testament to the kind of musicians they are that the album they released this year, also made it on my best of list. And to be honest, this album surpassed any expectations of what a second album should be. Cease To Begin is short (just under 35 minutes), sweet, and rockin’. I can listen to this album from start to finish and genuinely be excited about the song that is about to come up. My favorite though would have to be “Cigarettes, Wedding Bands.” I really hope they release an album in 2008…so I can put that one also on my “Best of” list. http://bandofhorses.com/

1.
Neon Bible—The Arcade Fire
I think the first time I listened to this album and the beginning notes of “Black Mirror” began to play I knew that there was not going to be a sophomore slump. Their first album had so much attention and well-deserved hype, could their second album measure up? YES! With songs like “Keep The Car Running,” “Intervention,” and “No Cars Go” it would be hard to just dismiss this album. Musically the album is strong, but lyrically I think it is stronger. Only The Arcade Fire can create songs about escape, hope, and praying that your daughter becomes famous as dramatic and beautiful. This album was one of the best of the year…hands down. http://arcadefire.com/flash.html

This year I also got some albums that I wished I had given more of a listen to. I seem to do this each year (buy albums and don’t give them a proper listen, or got them initially for a handful of songs, or get side tracked by the ones on my best of list) and then I notice they end up on other people’s best of lists. Then I think, “Why didn’t I pay more attention to this album? The one or two times I listened to it I thought it was good, but I stopped paying attention to it after I got this other album.” This year those albums are:

Icky Thump by The White Stripes

Release The Stars by Rufus Wainwright

The Reminder by Feist

Sky Blue Sky by Wilco

Easy Tiger by Ryan Adams

An End Has A Start by Editors

Fourteen Autumns & Fifteen Winters by The Twilight Sad

Like, Love, Lust & the Open Halls of the Soul by Jesse Sykes and the Sweet Hereafter

Yours Truly, Angry Mob by Kaiser Chiefs

Then this year there were a bazillion and one songs that I loved, but didn’t get the album they were on. Since I have to purchase a majority of the music I listen to, I can’t get every album released. Often times these artists also end up on other people’s best of lists, and I normally get them the following year and then think, “I wish I got this sooner. This album rocks!” Or sometimes these are just the songs I liked that came out in 2007 and they will just end up in my iTunes. This year those songs are:

“Fake Empire” and “Mistaken for Strangers”(video) by The National (can be found on Boxer)—this album I have suggested to others and they loved it, but for some reason I couldn’t get my act together this year and buy it.

“Myriad Harbour” by The New Pornographers (can be found on Challengers)

“Walters” and “From Nothing To Nowhere”(video) by Pinback (can be found on Autumn of the Seraphs)

“The Underdog” (video) and “Black Like Me” by Spoon (can be found on Ga Ga Ga Ga Ga)

“Knocked Up,” On Call,” and “Charmer” by Kings of Leon (can be found on Because of the Times)—this one I really didn’t get my act together on. I have their other albums, why didn’t I get this one?

“A Sunday Smile” by Beirut (can be found on The Flying Club Cup)

“Ex-Guru” by The Fiery Furnaces (can be found on Widow City)

“Our Life Is Not A Movie Or Maybe” (video) and “You Can't Hold The Hand Of A Rock And Roll Man” by Okkervil River (can be found on The Stage Names)

“Paper Planes” by M.I.A. (can be found on Kala)

“Thou Shalt Always Kill” by Dan Le Sac Vs Scroobius Pip

“Ash Wednesday” and “While You Were Sleeping” (video) by Elvis Perkins (can be found on Ash Wednesday)

“Revival” by Soulsavers (can be found on It's Not How Far You Fall, It's the Way You Land)

“Oxford Comma” by Vampire Weekend (can be found on Vampire Weekend which is self-released, however it will be widely released in January—wait so can I consider this for 2008?)

“North American Scum” (video) and “Someone Great” by LCD Soundsystem (can be found on Sound of Silver)

“A Postcard to Nina” by Jans Lekman (can be found on Night Falls Over Kortedala)

“End Of The Affair” by Jonathan Rice (can be found on Further North)

“Paper Birds” by Siberian (can be found on With Me)

“Earth Intruders” by Björk (can be found on Volta)

“23” (video) and “Spring And By Summer Fall” by Blonde Redhead (can be found on 23)

“Am I Wry? No” by Mew (can I be found on Frengers)

“Cemetery Lawn” and “Get Up Get Out” by The Rosebuds (can be found on Night of the Furies)

“Lake Michigan” by Rogue Wave (can be found on Asleep at Heaven’s Gate)

“The Year Before The Year 2000” by Les Savy Fav (can be found on Let’s Stay Friends)

“I'm Sorry, But I'm Beginning To Hate Your Face” by Eagle Seagull (can be found on The Year of the How-To Book which is going to be released in 2008)

“Tonight I Have To Leave It” by Shout Out Louds (can be found on Our Ill Wills)

“I’m Not Gonna Teach Your Boyfriend How To Dance With You” by Black Kids (can be found on Wizard of Ahhhs)

“Jesus Saves, I Spend” by St. Vincent (can be found on Marry Me)

“What’s A Girl To Do? by Bat For Lashes (can be found on Fur & Gold)

“Silence” by PJ Harvey (can be found on White Chalk)

“The Songs That We Sing” by Charlotte Gainsbourg (can be found on 5:55)

“You’re a Wolf” by Sea Wolf (can be found on Leaves In The River)

“101” by Albert Hammond Jr. (can be found on Yours To Keep)

“Home” by Great Northern (can be found on Trading Twilight for Daylight)

“Rehab,” “Back to Black,” and “You Know I’m No Good” (video) by Amy Winehouse (can be found on Back to Black)

“Sewn” by The Feeling (can be found on Twelve Stops and Home)

So this was my 2007 musically. As you can tell there was a lot swimming in between my ears. Hopefully you also had a great music year. I look forward to what is coming out in 2008. Happy listening!

xoxo,
Stefania

"The picture was left on the front porch, the back said, 'I love you, don't you ever think of me?'"

2007-12-09T22:08:00.000-05:00

On Monday, November 11th I saw Band of Horses (BoH) at the Metro. I have been looking forward to this show since I got their album Cease to Begin in October. This album at almost 35 minutes blew me away. Why is it so short? It is so good! I know it will end up on my list of best albums of 2007. I was just bouncing of the walls when Monday finally came. My friend Tim saw them in DC a few days before and was telling me how awesome of a show it was.

I arrived at the Metro fairly early. I really like the Metro. It reminds me a lot of my beloved 9:30 Club in DC. I stood in the front and center of the balcony (what a surprise!), and waited for the show to begin. There wasn’t much of a wait, before the opening-opening act, Tyler Ramsey: http://tylerramsey.com/, took the stage. He is a guy with a guitar who played beautiful, dreamy, soft music. I really liked him and his voice. I didn’t know any of his songs, but was really impressed by them. His album A Long Dream About Swimming Across the Sea will be out in January. Fans of Iron and Wine or Mark Kozelek would really like him. He also ended up playing with BoH during their set.

The opening act was an Australian band called The Drones: http://thedrones.com.au/ They were loud and rough. In a way even painful to listen to physically…I covered my ears (forgot the earplugs…again!). I was not feeling them at all, and neither was the two gals standing beside me. It seemed like such an odd choice after Tyler. Plus they went on too long for my taste. I wanted more BoH time. I was so happy when they got off the stage.

So during the break I started up a conversation with the gals next to me. Turns out they were from the DC area, but we weren’t living there at the same time. They also told me that they loved the 9:30 Club and they liked to stand in “my spot.” Good thing we weren’t there at the same time. I’d hate to be the jerk that has to point out the little gold plated plaque with my name on it, and then ask them to move.

By the time BoH took the stage the crowd was going nuts. The first thing I thought was “Ben Birdwell has really let his beard get out of control.” How can you stand facial hair like that? Really?

At one point he did put a hat on, but I still don’t think it helped with the hair situation.

They immediately started (due to that damn 10pm show end time) and started with “Is There A Ghost”:

They then continued with songs from the new album and their first album Everything All the Time. They played:

“No One’s Gonna Love You”

“Weed Party”

“Our Swords”

“Part One”

“The Funeral”

They also played a song that seemed like it was a cover, but I have no idea what it is. If you do, please let me know. It was so good…or at least their version was!

And also: “LRC,” “Islands On The Coast,” “Marry Song,” “The General Specific,” “Great Salt Lake,” “The First Song,” and “Monsters.”

For the encore they played:

“Act Together” (cover song, original by The Rolling Stones)

You can see Ben pointing to his girlfriend at the start of the song.

“Cigarettes, Wedding Bands” (my FAVORITE song)

I really loved BoH live. This was my first time seeing them and I know it won’t be the last. This show was so fun and they are great performers. They still have some more US shows this year and the start of the next. In February they head off to Europe. So go when you get a chance.

xoxo,
Stefania

“But Baby I don’t need you cash, Mama got it all in hand now…”

2007-12-04T22:41:00.000-05:00

So a month ago (yes, I have been slacking, but I am doing my best to catch up) I had two nights of Tori. When the tickets for the US leg of her American Doll Posse tour went on sale, only one Chicago night was listed for Nov. 5th at Auditorium Theatre. A few weeks later another show was added for the 6th at The Vic. I debated it for a split second, but knew I had to go. For each of the shows on this tour the first part of the show she would be one of the Dolls (Isabel, Clyde, Pip, or Santa), the character/voices from the album, and then she would do the rest of the show as Tori. It was exciting to guess who would make an appearance for the Chicago shows.

The opening act for this tour is a guy named Yoaz. The first night I arrived at the theater late with just enough time to see his last song, a cover of the Pixies’ “Where is My Mind?” Which he did beautifully. I knew I would see him the next night so I was not as upset. So the second night I was there to watch his act. It was just him, his guitar, and some effects. He is really talented. For some reason I cannot find his website. Weird. But if you get a chance check him out.

Yoaz at The Vic

Nov. 5th: Auditorium Theatre at Roosevelt University
I have never been to this venue before. In fact I had never heard of it. Like I said previously I had arrive late. Just to see Yoaz’s last song. But when the house lights came up…WOW! This place was gorgeous! http://auditoriumtheatre.org/wb/pages/home/about-us/photo-gallery.php# (click on “Pictures of Auditorium Theatre”). There wasn’t much of a wait time before Tori came to the stage. Which was good. I think Chicago has a law that shows must end by 10pm. They seem to start early and end by 10pm. Just a guess. Anyhoo…when the house lights went down and the band took the stage Tori came out as Santa! Yay! Santa is the Doll that represents beauty, love, passion, based off of Aphrodite: http://www.myspace.com/iampossesanta She came out and pranced around before she sat at the piano and started to play “Body and Soul” one of my favorite songs off of American Doll Posse. The set list for Santa included:
“She’s Your Cocaine,” “Dragon,” “Secret Spell,” “You Can Bring Your Dog,” and “Raspberry Swirl.”

Santa

Then when the band started to play “Professional Widow” she danced off the stage. Costume change time. Then she came out as Tori. She was wearing this gold sequined one armed cat suit. Her hair was red and a blazin’!

While she was Tori she played: “Big Wheel,” “Concertina,” “Tear In Your Hand,” “Cornflake Girl,” “Your Cloud,” “Take To The Sky,” an improv version of “Nobody Knows the Trouble I’ve Seen,” “China,” “Cooling,” “1000 Oceans,” “Hotel,” and “Code Red.”

During “Nobody knows..,” “China,” “Cooling,” and “1000 Oceans” she was solo and there was this T&Bo light that looked very much like Tiffany&Co. This part of the show got a little emotional for me (won’t lie) since “Cooling” and “1000 Oceans” have such a significance to me. The highlight was when she sang the “brambles” verse of “Cooling” which she sometimes leaves out. Oh so good!

After “Code Red” she left the stage for a split second (it was nearing 10pm) but came back out for the encore which consisted of “Precious Things” and “Hey Jupiter” where she sang part of the bridge of the Dakota version of the song. Which I love that part so I was kinda bummed she didn’t sing it fully. But hey I got “Cooling” so I wasn’t gonna complain!

On the train ride home there were tons of fans discussing the show and then talking about the next night’s show. I was really curious on what time people were going to get there. Doors opened at 6pm, show starts at 7pm. Tori’s fans are notorious for being crazy and obsessive. With The Vic being so small I wanted to get there early. I debated skipping work. I debated taking a half day. I thought I would let myself decide in the morning.

Nov. 6th: The Vic
So when I woke up I decided to take a sick day. I had actually worked that weekend (visited Purdue) and I really did want to sleep in and just rest. Plus I wanted to be at the Vic by 1pm. I slept in, got ready, got lunch, and was at The Vic by 12:30pm. I was number 32 in line. Whoo hoo!

The nice thing about Tori fans is they are pretty friendly. In fact the people ahead of me I spoke to on the train the night before and the people after me sat next to me during the show. It was great sharing stories of past shows, talking about songs we would love to see live that we haven’t (“Doughnut Song” for me), and speculating on which Doll would appear at The Vic (our money was on Pip…our hope was for Pip).

Now I thought I was a super huge fan, but after speaking to some of these people I realized I am a different sort of fan. One guy was using 9 of his vacation days to follow this tour. One guy from England was following part of the tour after he had seen most of the European shows. There was this group of 4 friend-fans who were following her pretty much everywhere on this tour. It was amazing to think how much time and money people spend on this sort of thing. I did ask if they go and see other shows or just Tori ones. Many of them said just Tori ones. I guess if you are constantly following her it doesn’t allow for much time for other artists.

In line

Entertaining ourselves by realizing Tori fans like Chuck Taylors (I’m the red)

Chatting with new friends

Marquee

By the time we got into The Vic we were slightly frozen. I knew I could have made my way closer to the front, but I wanted to stand where I had a good spot and a little elevation. I had the best spot I think in the first tier. Those of you who have been to The Vic know. And those of you who haven’t come visit and we’ll go see a show.

So the show started with Yoaz, and like I said he was pretty good. Very creative and talented. And then in about 30 minutes they got the stage ready and the show began. Then to the crowd’s delight Pip walked out. Pip is the Doll that is based upon Athena, goddess of war, wisdom and strategy: http://pipolitics.livejournal.com/ Plus, she is the only Doll that could have easily fit into the look and history of The Vic. She came out and started with “Cruel” where she improvised a part about using and abusing someone you “love.” It was intense and at that point we knew that Pip was going to be intense. She continued on with “Bliss,” “Teenage Hustling,” “Fat Slut,” “Smokey Joe,” “Waitress,” and then ended her set with “Me and a Gun.”

Pip is also confrontational and it came across in many of the songs. Hearing her sing some of them brought a new life and meaning to them. The one that hit the hardest was “Me and a Gun.” The song that is usually sang a capella and as soft as a secret prayer (it’s the song about Tori’s rape) was anything but the usual. It was angry and loud. She also used props (a knife, a gun) that just brought it to another level. Yowza! The crowd just stood there in shock and awe. It was intense times a billion. In a way left you feeling awkward and uncomfortable…but that is Pip.

As Pip walked off the stage the band started to play “Professional Widow” for the costume change. When Tori came back out she was in another sequined one armed cat suit in leopard print. To lighten the mood she began with “Big Wheel.”

The rest of her set included: “Sugar,” “Almost Rosey,” “Cornflake Girl,” “Liquid Diamonds,” “Caught a Lite Sneeze,” “Winter,” “Happy Phantom,” “Digital Ghost,” “Hotel,” and “Code Red.”

For the encore she did “Precious Things,” “Bouncing Off Clouds,” and “Hey Jupiter” this time fully singing the bridge of the Dakota version:

“I go from day to day
I know where the cupboards are
I know where the car is parked
I know he isn't you”

I just love, love, love that part! So good!

So at 10pm on the dot, the show was over. We were shuffled out and just hyped up on what we had just seen. I was really glad that I had got there early. I met some cool people and made some great new friends (Sarah and Bryan).

I love Tori Amos. She is my absolute fave. She is creative, energetic, and just a great showman…err uuhhh show woman….or is that womyn? In any case, I know that she is very much an acquired taste. And I know that most people have a perception of her. However, if you are brave enough I say go see her live. Oh and “Bring your sister if you can’t handle it…”

xoxo,
Stefania

The Long and Short of It

2007-11-23T19:49:00.000-05:00

On October 28th and 29th I got to experience an experiment the Decemberists were doing called The Longs and Short of It Tour. The plan was to spend two nights in each city they played, the first night’s set list full of their longer, epic songs and the second night their shorter, poppier songs. They played at the historic Vic Theater, and it was my first time there. I like this venue and the small intimate nature of it. It also had plenty of great spots to see the stage.

The opening act for both nights was Laura Veirs with her backing band Saltbrakers (Steve Moore and Karl Blau. Their drummer was out with a back injury so the Decemberists’ drummer John Moen filled in for a few songs).

I have only heard a few of Laura’s songs, and my favorite is “Galaxies.” However, both nights she didn’t play it. Instead she focused on her new album Saltbreakers. Her set list did not change much for both nights. I did like the song “Pink Light,” but nothing else really stood out to me. Not that she isn’t a good performer or her songs were awful, I just wasn’t drawn to them. She was funny and made conversation with the crowd. She also told stories of why she liked Chicago, and made sure we knew the names of her band mates. She is a good friend of the Decemberists and she was the opening act for Colin on his solo tour a few years ago.

In all honesty I was just super excited to see the Decemberists again, that really it didn’t matter who was opening. The Decemberists, as you know, are one of my all time favorite groups. I have sung their praises in a blog entry past (Nov. 16, 2006). This is also the only band I have seen in DC, NYC, and now here. Interpol came close as did Black Rebel Motorcycle Club. But the Decemberists get the honor.

One nice thing about this tour is that Chicago was the first date, so we got to see the workings of this idea first. Oct. 28th was the Long of it night. I pretty much knew what the set list was going to be. So when the crew tapped the set list around the stage I was not amazed it was only half a sheet. The band came out and started with “The Crane Wife 3” and then went into “The Crane Wife 1 & 2.” After that they continued with “The Island: Come & See/The Landlord’s Daughter/You’ll Not Feel The Drowning.” After those three songs, 20 plus minutes later, did we get some banter. The Decemberists are known for their crowd engagement and storytelling, as well as comical reenactments and crowd participation. It was then Colin said something along the lines of, “The Long of It night will definitely provide little banter. And not a lot of drinking.” To which Chris Funk (guitarist) said, “But on the Short of It nights…” And it was true, with songs that are over 7 minutes, and a curfew (have to be out of the venue by 10pm) there was not going to be a ton of between song banter.

They then continued on with “California One/Youth and Beauty Brigade” followed by “The Bagman’s Gambit.” It was at this point Colin had mentioned he was a bit winded and that maybe they should have thought this thing through. We all laughed and then they continued with the show. The next song was the one that I’m sure everyone in the theater was there for, their 18 minute 35 second song, “The Tain” (which is the band’s take on the Irish myth Táin Bó Cúailnge). There are 5 parts to the song and I have not seen all 5 live in order before (maybe 1 or 2 of the parts, but the whole thing? Nope). It was such a treat, because it is awesome. They then ended the show with one of my faves “I Was Meant For The Stage.”

Even though I thought there was going to be no encore, there was. After a split second they all made their way to the stage and started playing “Echoes” by Pink Floyd…which they did beautifully. Finally they wrapped it up with “Mariner’s Revenge Song” where we all participated by screaming when the song got to the part where the whale ate us. Overall the Long of It night was great, and I was looking forward to the next night.

The Short of It night’s set list was really up in the air. I mean the rest of their catalogue was up for grabs. The only song I knew they would play would be “Yankee Bayonet (I Will Be Home Then)” since Laura Veirs sings on it. Yes, they did play it. But what else would they do? To my surprise they came out and played the first 5 songs off of their EP 5 Songs (the EP has 6 songs on it): “Oceanside,” “Shiny,” “My Mother Was A Chinese Trapeze Artist,” “Angel, Won’t You Call Me?” and “I Don’t Mind.” They did these songs with only a few instruments and they all were in the front of the stage. Sort of like they were sitting on a porch just entertaining us after dinner. Very cool. They then got to their places and continued with another fave of mine that I have never seen live, “Leslie Anne Levine.” The Short of It night did provide more banter and more drinking…as promised. The set list included “Billy Liar,” “The Soldering Life,” “The Chimbley Sweep,” “Eli, The Barrow Boy,” “The Engine Driver” (this song will never get old for me), “The Perfect Crime #2,” “O Valencia!” and the song that didn’t make The Crane Wife album, “Culling The Fold” (Oh how I wish it had!).

For the encore they played “A Cautionary Song” (still my least favorite) so that Chris and John could come into the crowd and reenact the St. Valentine’s Day Massacre with the audience. Always a crowd pleaser, and how great they tailored it to Chicago. When the gentlemen made it back to the stage they continued playing and ended the encore with “After The Bombs.”

Again, The Decemberists did not disappoint. I was really happy with both shows. However, I was more grateful that I was one of the few to see this 2 day idea because a week or so after, the tour was cancelled due to an illness: http://www.decemberists.com/news.aspx I am not sure if they will attempt it again, but if they do then go. And if they don’t that’s okay too. Just got see them when you get a chance. I know I keep saying that, but I think they are one of the best and most entertaining bands out there.

xoxo,
Stefania

“I want you lazy science…”

2007-11-08T21:55:00.000-05:00

On Saturday, Oct. 20th I was lucky enough to go see another show (after Bright Eyes on Friday night): Nada Surf. I wasn’t originally going to go because the show was sold out and I had found out about it too late. However, about a month ago I signed up to be part of this indie rock-show-going-group on www.Meetup.com I know, I know…how lame is that? But I thought it might be good to meet some people who like the same music I do. I have yet to go to a show with these people, because they seem to go to shows I don’t want to go to. C’est la vie.

So on Friday I get an e-mail summarizing what activity has been going on with the group, and there was a message from a guy named Clint who said he had 2 extra tickets to Nada Surf on Saturday (they played on Friday night too). So I sent him an e-mail and asked if he still had one. He did. So I was going. Hooray!

The show was at Schubas Tavern (which is a venue that reminds me of Mercury Lounge in NYC) which I love! I met up with Clint, his girlfriend Katie, and their friend Jay an hour before the show at the bar. Another gal, Bree, was also coming for the other ticket. They seemed like cool people and after getting to know them, I discovered that they rocked. Yay, new friends!

After the doors had opened, we made our way towards the front. We got about 8 feet from the stage…awesome! The opening act was Sea Wolf. I only knew a few of their songs, and those were good so I was assuming the rest would be. I was right. They were awesome. They played my favorite songs “You’re a Wolf” and “Middle Distance Runner.” I really suggest checking them out.

I was excited to see Nada Surf. I had missed them in DC and NYC it seems every time they played. They started out with their 1996 hit “Popular.” From there it got better. They played “Bad Best Friend” from The Proximity Effect and from Let Go they played “Happy Kid,” “Blizzard of ’77,” “Hi-Speed Soul,” “Fruit Fly,” Killian’s Red,” “Inside of Love,” and “Blonde on Blonde” during the encore. From The Weight is a Gift they played “Do It Again,” “Imaginary Friends,” “Always Love,” and “Blankest Year.” A random song they played was “Meow Meow Lullaby” which appears on a children’s album. They also played two new songs from their new album coming out in February…which means they’ll be touring again soon…yippee! One highlight was during the last song of their set they played “Stalemate” and then morphed it into “Love Will Tear Us Apart” by Joy Division.

It was such a fun show. The crowd was cool, my new friends were fun, and the energy was high. I don’t think I had this great of a time at a show in a while. This was the second night Nada Surf had played. They were so fun and really were appreciative of the enthusiasm the crowd. I think pretty much everyone sang along to every song, and just danced around like crazy. I loved it! This is one of the best shows I have been to. I highly recommend seeing them live. Can’t wait for February!

xoxo,
Stefania

“You’re A Wolf”

“Popular”

“Inside of Love”

“Hi-Speed Soul”

“Always Love”

“Blankest Year”

2007-10-30T01:26:00.001-04:00

Dear Modest Mouse,
Not only did you write a beautifully sad song about a relationship ending (due to a breakup, or possibly death…the message boards are a buzzin’), you decided to pair it with one of the most heart wrenching videos I have ever seen. Thanks for making me cry…jerks! Please go back to videos with mariners, robots made from boxes, and tree people.

xoxo,
Stefania

“Little Motel”

“Got a cricket for a conscience, always looks the other way…”

2007-10-28T17:21:00.000-04:00

I will be the first to admit that I left NYC rather abruptly. I thought since the timing was right (my apt. lease was ending for one) that it would be easy to pack up and go. It wasn’t until I landed in Chicago that it hit me that I had actually moved. I wasn’t here for a weekend trip. It has now been 5 months since the move, and I am now starting to get into more of a groove. I have my friends, I am meeting new people, and I’m still doing improv. And how can I forget the music? Without going to shows, I couldn’t ever feel like I was home.

Right before I left NYC I had a string of shows to go to. However, since the move was quick, I had to miss out on some great acts. One of those was Bright Eyes. So how excited was I to find out he would be making his way to Chicago? I’ll answer that for you: VERY! On Friday, Oct. 19th I went back to the Chicago Theatre to see Bright Eyes with opener Andrew Bird.

I arrived a song or two into Andrew Bird’s set. I have heard of him, but not actually heard him. I know that he had a following of dedicated fans, especially in the Chicago area since this is his hometown and where he resides. I didn’t know the titles of any of the songs he played. I tried to do some research after the fact and I know that he played a song called “Imitosis.” He also played a song where he used a See ‘n Say toy at the start and then went in about how he couldn’t save his chickens. It sounds odd, but it sounded so beautiful. He also was on stage by himself playing all the instruments, looping and using effects to make his music. He was really interesting to watch. http://andrewbird.net/

“Imitosis”

After a little bit of time a DJ from the radio station sponsoring the show came out and introduced this older gentleman who is known as the indie poet of Chicago. He got on stage and did a poem that lasted about 5 seconds. This was the second time I had seen him. The first was at The Twilight Sad show. Oh things to do after you retire!

A few moments later Bright Eyes took the stage. http://www.thisisbrighteyes.com/ The show started out with Fever & Mirrors’ “An Attempt to Tip the Scales.” From there he played songs from most of his albums (I think he has 50 now…), and surprised us with a few covers. From what I can recall he played: “Classic Cars,” “Four Winds,” and “If The Brakeman Turns My Way” from Cassadaga; “Lua,” “Old Soul Song,” Poison Oak,” and “Another Travelin’ Song” from I’m Wide Awake It’s Morning; “Hit The Switch” from Digital Ash In A Digital Urn; “You Will. You? Will. You? Will,” and “Bowl of Oranges” from Lifted Or The Story Is In The Soil, Keep Your Ear To The Ground. He covered “Walls (Circus)” by Tom Petty and sang a song he wrote for a friend’s band (Neva Dinova) called “Spring Cleaning.”

Conor was very endearing, funny and engaged the audience. He shared stories about his family and was embarrassed when he took off his sweater, because had a hole in his favorite shirt that he has had for 10 years…he didn’t think he would get hot enough to take his sweater off. He also shared a story of an ex-tour manager that made the joke, “How does Bright Eyes warm up for a show?” The answer? “Me me me me…” Conor then said, “I fired him.” I know some people aren’t a big fan of Conor’s or think that he is self-centered or whatever. But he puts on a good show and I think he is a pretty genuine guy. Plus, his lyrics are so beautiful.

Unlike my Ryan Adams experience where everyone around me annoyed the crap out of me, this time no one was really around me. In fact no one was seated next to me. There were people at the end of my row, and then some people in front of me and behind me, but that was about it. And during the show no one was really disrespectful and no one yelled out, “Conor! I want to have your babies!” like when I saw him in DC. Which in a weird way it felt odd. I don’t really like going to shows solo, but this is something I am getting used to. It just makes it a little more difficult to hear the words from “Lua”:

“When everything is lonely
I can be my own best friend
Get a coffee and the paper
Have my own conversations
With the sidewalk and the pigeons
And my window reflection…”

Bright Eyes is not a good show to see solo. It is also not a good show to go make out with your significant other or annoy those around you by yelling out obnoxious things. It is a good show to go with some pals dance around or just sit and listen.

xoxo,
Stefania

P.S. Even though he didn’t play “Hot Knives” here is the video from it. I already posted “Four Winds” in my March 23rd post.

“You fly straight into my heart…”

2007-10-21T20:33:00.000-04:00

On Thursday, October 11th my friend Stephanie and I went to the Aragon Ballroom (where I saw The Flaming Lips) to see Interpol. I still think this venue is weird and awful. Its way too big, but at least it was well ventilated this time. Since I knew I didn’t want to be on the floor, I had to get there a tad bit early to secure a spot in the balcony area. I found us a pretty good spot with chairs and where no one would be in front of us.

The opening act was LA band, Liars. I have only heard a few songs of theirs on KEXP and the jury was still out. Well after seeing them live, I can’t say they won me over. Stephanie and I just couldn’t get into the music. It was abstract, a little weird, and very loud. The lead singer, Angus, did strange dance moves. The drummer, Julian, wore a hot pink boxer’s robe. The guitarist, Aaron, was just doing his own thing. I wish I could have liked them more, but I can’t like every band out there. But I’ll let you judge for yourself:

“Plaster Casts of Everything”

WARNING: If boobies offend you, don’t watch! Oh Patrick Daughters!

We were really excited by the time Interpol took the stage. This is the 6th time I have seen them live. I really enjoy their live show even though there is little banter in between songs or connection with the audience. It’s like they take the stage, do their thing, say their thanks and then move on. I also really love their light show….LOVE IT! They played a good mix from their new album, Our Love to Admire including “Pioneer to the Falls,” “No I in Threesome,” “The Heinrich Maneuver,” “Mammoth,” and “Rest My Chemistry.” They also played songs off of Antics (“Evil,” “Take You on a Cruise,” “Not Even Jail,” “Narc,” and “C’mere) and Turn On The Bright Lights (“Untitled,” “Obstacle 1,” “PDA,” “Say Hello To Angels,” and “Stella Was a Diver and She Always Was Down”).

I love Interpol. I know a lot of people don’t due to various reasons, but I still enjoy them. In fact I could watch them every night. In fact if I could follow a band they would be it. And if I were to follow them I’d like to do it on a European tour so not only could I see Interpol just about every night, but I could also explore some really cool countries. I need to start saving…

xoxo,
Stefania

Some videos from the new album:

“Mammoth”

“No I In Threesome”

“The Heinrich Maneuver”

Don’t buy the hype? But how will I discover new music?

2007-10-19T01:05:00.000-04:00

So I ran across this article the other day and found it quite interesting, plus it quotes my favorite DJ (John Richards) and how KEXP plays into the whole hype machine (but they aren't the main ones...damn bloggers!). I feel a bit like Dorothy discovering the Wizard is just a man behind the curtain. Okay it isn’t that devastating, but it certainly makes me think.

http://www.oxfordamericanmag.com/content.cfm?ArticleID=255&Entry=Extras

The article also mentions Pitchfork, which made me think of this hilarious article from The Onion:

http://www.theonion.com/content/news/pitchfork_gives_music_6_8?utm_source=EMTF_Onion

Oh Onion! How do you keep doing it?

xoxo,
Stefania

I heart KEXP!

2007-10-17T00:10:00.000-04:00

On Thursday October 4th I took the day off of work so I could volunteer with KEXP while they broadcast here in Chicago for three days. Chicago won the city challenge during the last pledge drive and as a reward John Richards and Cheryl Waters broadcast their shows out of Engine Studios, http://www.enginestudios.com/, Oct 3rd-5th. I wish I could have volunteered all 3 days, but I couldn’t due to work. Sad face.

I was only signed up for one shift, 7:30am-10am, during John’s show. However, I had signed up for all of the in studio performances that day, so I was going to be there the whole time.

Since there were a lot of KEXP and Engine Studio staff and Engine studio interns there really wasn’t a whole lot for me to do. So I answered the phones when I could and let people know where to go during the performances.

The KEXP blog was updated as the day progressed by a really cool gal named Meredith who works for KEXP. She is originally from Lubbock, TX and we talked a lot about the area and what we liked/disliked about it. The photos were taken by another volunteer named Susana Meza. I also spent a lot of time hanging out with Shannon, who does a show before John’s show on Tuesday mornings, who did most of the band interviews.

The first act of the day was The 1900s: http://depts.washington.edu/kexp/blog/?p=3402

The second in studio was Imperial Teen: http://depts.washington.edu/kexp/blog/?p=3403
Notice who wrote it? ME!!! I was really excited when I was asked if I would mind taking notes and then doing a write up of the performance. Meredith had to run out during the set, and Tobias (the main organizer of the KEXP Chicago Posse) asked if I would mind stepping in. I was so nervous, but said yes. I almost got to interview them as well if Shannon wasn’t able to, but she was. Oh well maybe next time. I was surprised that I got the writing credit. How cool is that?

Also during the Imperial Teen set I did my imitation of “bass face” but was unaware that Susana had caught me!

The third act of the day was The Twilight Sad: http://depts.washington.edu/kexp/blog/?p=3409 I also had a ticket for their show that night at the Empty Bottle. Shannon is a super big fan of theirs as well, and she too was planning on going to the show.

The final in studio came from Jose Gonzalez: http://depts.washington.edu/kexp/blog/?p=3416
I made it in a picture! Look at how into it I am. He is so talented.

After the eventful day in the studio I went home to rest up a bit for the member party and then the once a month show put on by KEXP and the Chicago Posse called the Equalizer. I have now volunteered my services and time to the Chicago Posse, and I hope to take on more of a leadership role.

At the member party I got to meet more KEXP members in the area (I sat at the welcome table with the free swag—buttons, stickers, sign up sheet), and spent some more time with my favorite DJs.

Cheryl, me, and John

The performances that night for Equalizer came from Mason Proper, Airiel, and Scotland Yard Gospel Choir. However, Shannon and I left early to go see The Twilight Sad.

The Empty Bottle is a tiny venue with the stage barely above the floor. We arrived literally 10 minutes before the Twilight Sad took the stage. They played pretty much every song off of their album Fourteen Autumns and Fifteen Winters…my favorite being “That Summer, At Home I Had Become The Invisible Boy,” which is a reference from the movie Stand By Me.

Shannon and I at the show

I had such an amazing day being a KEXP tool. I met a ton of great people and got to be a part of something I truly loved. A highlight on Friday was when I was back in my cubicle working and John gave me a shout out on the air. Next year when they come back I plan to volunteer everyday. It was too much fun not to.

xoxo,
Stefania

“Hanging around Broadway, and I think I saw your face…”

2007-10-07T16:39:00.000-04:00

There are many bands/performers that have been around for years and have a rabid following. It’s always strange when I get into these acts waaayyyyy after everyone else has already been there and done that. One of these bands is Wilco. Another is Ryan Adams. I know people who have seen him more times than I have digits to count on, and who have bootlegs of bootlegs of bootlegs of the rarest of rare songs. So where was I when everyone was getting into him?

Does it really matter where I was? No, it doesn’t. Sometimes people make a big deal that they knew an artist before everyone else did or before an iPod commercial has brought them to the masses (I have been guilty of this…I do not lie…but sorry, Feist was an “artist to know” before “1234”), but shouldn’t we just be happy when more people discover the music we love? I’m trying my best to do this. So okay, I got into Ryan Adams almost a decade after he broke the scene. But I’m there now.

On Saturday, Sept. 29th I made it out to the famed Chicago Theatre to see Ryan Adams & The Cardinals perform.

This performance was a few days after his “meltdown” in Minneapolis: http://edition.cnn.com/2007/SHOWBIZ/Music/09/28/people.ryanadams.ap/index.html
So I was hoping that his performance here in Chicago would go smoothly. And it did. In fact he even poked fun of himself about the situation.

There was no opening act. Which I am not sure if this is typical of a Ryan Adams show, but I was okay with it. I know that he has enough material to play for hours so I was just looking forward to what was in store.

Since I am a newbie to Ryan and there are enough super fans out there, I found a site that posts every single set list since 1994. So this was the show I saw: http://www.answeringbell.com/Answering%20Bell/2007%20Shows/2007.09.29.htm

He played some of my favorite songs such as “Dear Chicago,” “When The Stars Go Blue,” and “Two.”

During the first part of the encore, Ryan was alone at the piano.

Nothing is as beautiful as hearing “Sylvia Plath” live with such emotion behind the lines, “Maybe she’d take me to France/Or maybe to Spain and she’d ask me to dance” with him playing on this small red piano.

He has lived in NYC for a while and so many of his song reference the city. Nothing made me more homesick than “Sweet Lil Gal (23rd/1st)” since it was so close to where I used to live (20th and 1st).

Overall, this was a great show and I’m really glad that I went. I have no complaints about the performance. Well maybe one. I wish he would have played, “To Be Young (is to be sad, is to be high).”

The biggest complaint that I had about the show is the audience. Well at least the audience that was a round me. I am still going solo to most shows, and so it’s great when the show is seated. When you look for one ticket, you normally get to be in a good spot. However, you are then surrounded by twos. And most often times couples. The most annoying was the couple to my left who basically made out the whole time. And not just kissing or snuggling, but groping. Yes, Ryan has some pretty romantic songs, however just because a song is soft and slow it doesn’t make it a great make out song, such as “Dear John.” To my right was a couple who talked during the whole show, and in front of me were fratty frat boys who texted on their cell phones and chatted away making plans for what they were doing after the show. I was annoyed. Maybe this is why people get smashed or high at shows. Maybe it’s not to help them really experience or enjoy a show, it’s for them to tune out the d-bags. Of course often times they become the d-bags. What to do?

xoxo,
Stefania

Snippet of “When The Stars Go Blue”

Part of “Dear Chicago”

“I was your silver lining, but now I'm gold…”

2007-09-30T20:31:00.000-04:00

So the weekend of Sept. 14-16th Anna came to visit. She had a speaking engagement in the ‘burbs on the 17th, and came earlier to spend some time with me. Hooray! I had a great time showing her around my new city and it was fabulous to have a buddy to go exploring some new places with me.

One thing that brought me back to the good ‘ole days of DC was going to a show with Anna on the 15th , and it was fun to go see an act that we had seen together a few years back, but when they were the opening act for Coldplay. We went to the Riviera Theatre (The Riv) to see LA based band Rilo Kiley.

This was my first time at The Riv so I didn’t know what it would be like on the inside. I pass it and the Aragon on my morning commute on the El. Anna and I took our time in getting there, and by the time we did the place was packed. It had two different levels on the floor and then a balcony area. We decided to stand in the second tier of the floor space. We had gotten there right before the opening act, Jonathan Rice, but had missed the opening-opening act, Grand Ole Party. Oh well. C’est la vie.

By the time Jonathan had taken the stage many of us had grown restless. I was having a hard time seeing the stage. I knew that this was not going to be a good night for me to see the stage. At least the tall guy in front of us allowed us to stand in front of him. The first time I had seen Jonathan was when he was on tour with Jenny during her solo thing. I gave some background about him in my Oct. 17, 2006 entry. Most of the songs he played came off of his new album Further North including “We’re All Stuck Out in the Desert” and the standout track “End of the Affair,” a duet with Jenny.

After Jonathan’s set, Anna and I stood around patiently and chatted with the nice guy who allowed us to stand in front of him. However, it did no good. As soon as Rilo Kiley took the stage everyone in front of me seemed to get in my line of vision. As the show progressed I got to see glimpses of everyone in the band. And Jenny was in a sequined top/dress thing so you couldn’t miss her.

They put on a great show, full of energy and the crowd was really into it. They were fans and you could tell that they didn’t first hear of Rilo Kiley off of the Grey’s Anatomy soundtrack. The majority of the set list came from their new album, Under the Blacklight: “Close Call,” “The Moneymaker,” “Breakin’ Up,” “Dreamworld,” “Smoke Detector,” “15,” “Silver Lining,” and “Give a Little Love” (the first song of the encore). They also played favorites from More Adventurous: “It’s a Hit” (opening song), “Portions for Foxes,” “Ripcord,” “I Never,” and “Does He Love You?” (second song of the encore). They even played some older songs “Wires and Waves” from Take Offs and Landings, and “Paint’s Peeling,” “Spectacular Views,” and “With Arms Outstretched” from Execution of All Things. At one point they were also nice to cover Jenny’s song “Rise Up with Fists!!!” and Blake’s other band The Elected’s “Greetings in Braille.”
I had a great time at this show, even though I couldn’t see a lot of it. It was nice spending time with Anna, and sharing this show with her. Rilo Kiley is a fun act and worth going to see. So go.

xoxo,
Stefania

“The Moneymaker”

“Silver Lining”

"Why aren't you keeping with you, all the ones who really love you?"

2007-09-29T00:10:00.000-04:00

On Wednesday, Sept. 12th I went to go see Midlake at Metro. http://midlake.net/ It seems like a lot of good acts go to Metro, so I was excited to check out the place. I arrived a little after doors opened, and as I entered I just knew I was going to like this venue. It reminded me a lot of my beloved 9:30 Club in DC. It’s about the same size, but shaped differently, if that makes sense. They do have a balcony similar to 9:30, which I was really happy about. And so I got comfortable behind the railing…standing right in the center of course.

Midlake is originally from Denton, Texas and the 5 lads all met while they were students at the Univ. of North Texas. Now I am not a Texan, but being from Okla. its close enough. I know rabid college football fans will say that is blasphemous, but really the states are pretty similar. I am proud of my Okie roots, but I love Texas as well. So I always get excited when I find out a band or a member of a band I like is from my area. They are still touring for their album, The Trials of Van Occupanther. I put off buying this album for a while, but once I finally did I was like, “Why did I wait so long? This is awesome!” And many people whether they are into jam bands or 70s rock or indie all agree that this album is fabulous. The melodies, harmonies, and vocal arrangements just make you feel this music. Really feel it. And the songs that tie this album together are amazing. These songs of travel, pioneering, isolation, loss, and love weave together to create a story. So I was interested to see how they could pull it off live.

However, first up was their opening act, Dawn Landes. http://dawnlandes.com/ She is originally from Kentucky (but now lives in New York) and had a large group of family in the crowd.

I really liked her a lot. It was her with a guitar, a drummer (Ray Rizzo) and cello (Eric Stevenson) doin all the work. Her music was pretty, soft, but she knew when to crank it up a bit. She reminded me of New Buffalo. I absolutely loved her songs “Straight Lines,” and “I Don’t Need No Man.” But the treat was when she did a cover of that great song by Peter, Bjorn, and John, “Young Folks” adding her bluegrass style:

After Dawn left the stage it wasn’t much longer before Midlake appeared. They wasted no time in starting the show. They played pretty much everything off of Van Occupanther including “Young Bride,” “Roscoe,” “In This Camp,” and “Head Home.” They also did some songs off of their first album, Bamnan and Slivercork, like “Balloon Maker.” A treat they gave us is when they did the song they did with the Chemical Brothers, “The Pills Won't Help You Now." It was pretty cool. The even played us a new song they had been working on. I don’t recall if it had a title or not.

Tim Smith

This was a super fun show in a great venue. Several times during the show Eric Nichelson thanked us for being there and also mentioned that he knew we had other options. While it’s true that on most nights, more than one good show going on, and on this particular night Chicago band Wilco was playing. The tickets for Wilco had actually gone on sale after I purchased my Midlake ticket. I would like to see Wilco live, but I am glad that I didn’t ditch Midlake to do it.

Eric Nichelson

Paul Alexander

Eric Pulido

McKenzie Smith

“She fell in love with the drummer…”

xoxo,
Stefania

P.S. I have already posted the video for “Young Bride” in my June 26th entry so I won’t repost it. Instead here is the video for “Head Home”: