The Current Music Blog: May 2008 Archive

The Stream 05/05/08

Posted at 9:02 AM on May 5, 2008 by Barb Abney (1 Comments)

New Nine Inch Nails music, free for the taking.

Tom Waits announces tour.

Wanna rate the "Worst Album Covers Ever"?

Today In Music History:
1942 - Tammy Wynette was born.
1945 - Bob Seger was born.
1948 - Bill Ward (Black Sabbath) was born.
1959 - Ian McCulloch (Echo & the Bunnymen) was born.
1968 - Buffalo Springfield split up.
1979 - Peaches and Herb's "Reunited" was the #1 single.
1984 - Jim Kerr (Simple Minds) married Chrissie Hynde (The Pretenders.)
1996 - Rage Against The Machine's Evil Empire was the #1 album.

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Live Blogging 05/05/08

Posted at 9:23 AM on May 5, 2008 by Barb Abney

11:50 a.m. Justin Townes Earle
The son of Steve Earle recently released his debut, The Good Life.
He was recently featured on Morning Edition.
More...

11:30 a.m. Martha Wainwright
I Know You're Married But I've Got Feelings Too will be in stores on June 10th.
More...

11:15 a.m. The Hold Steady
They will release Stay Positive on July 14th.
More...

10:50 a.m. The Submarines
Their latest effort is Honeysuckle Weeks.
They have upcoming gigs with Headlights.
More...

10:35 a.m. Does It Offend You, Yeah?
They're playing First Avenue next Monday night.
They're also lending support on some of the upcoming NIN dates.
More...

10:25 a.m. The Last Shadow Puppets
The band is made up of Alex Turner (Arctic Monkeys) and Miles Kane (The Rascals).
Their debut album The Age Of The Understatement will be released tomorrow.
More...

10:15 a.m. Her Space Holiday
They've recently released a new EP.
More...

Song Of The Day Info - Local Music - Big Trouble
Today on our Song Of The Day Podcast we're featuring local music from Big Trouble with the tune "Hunting Season" from the Crescent Moon Is In Big Trouble EP.
They're playing the Red Stag Block Party on Saturday, June 14th.
More...

9:50 a.m. Billy Bragg
Mr. Love & Justice was released today.
He's playing The Cedar Cultural Center on June 13th.
You can still listen to his SxSW performance in our archives.
More...

9:45 a.m. Kanye West
He's playing Target Center along with
Lupe Fiasco on June 11th.
More...

9:30 a.m. R.E.M.
Tickets are on sale now for their June 5th date at The Xcel with Modest Mouse and The National.
More...

9:20 a.m. Local Music - Mason Jennings
His new release In The Ever, will be released on the 20th.
You can pre-order it here.
More...

9:15 a.m. Drive-By Truckers
They're playing First Avenue with Dead Confederate on July 2nd.
More...

9:10 a.m. Scarlett Johansson
Her album of (mostly) Tom Waits covers, Anywhere I Lay My Head will be released on the 20th.
In related news: Tom Waits announces upcoming tour.
More info here and/or here.

9:00 a.m. Andrew Bird
He'll be playing the SOLD OUTRock The Garden along with Cloud Cult, The New Pornographers and Bon Iver.
More...

"My 3 Songs" for Monday

Posted at 1:05 PM on May 5, 2008 by Steve Seel

With our celebration of Minnesota's 150th birthday all this week, we've got lots of stuff planned for you and My Three Songs is in on the fun too. We asked local music personalities, writers, musicians and other local luminaries to submit their three song sets.

We start off today with Steve McPherson, writer for Reveille Magazine and guitarist for Big Trouble and Jessy Greene. Over the years Steve has contributed to City Pages, Howwastheshow.com, and Skyscraper Magazine, and he also served as Music Editor for Pulse of the Twin Cities from 2005-2007.

Steve's songs have a certain similarity in their titles:

1) Caribou, "She's The One"
2) The Zombies, "She's Not There"
3) Wilco, "She's A Jar"

He adds, "I hemmed and hawed over this, but Caribou's "She's The One" has been haunting me, so ..."

Nicely done, Steve. Thanks a bunch, and thanks for all you do around these parts!

The Stream 05/06/08

Posted at 6:03 AM on May 6, 2008 by Barb Abney (1 Comments)

Frank Black to open for Stone Temple Pilots.

Prince releasing 21 Nights a multimedia book based on last years 3 week musical residency in London.

Lily Allen writing a sitcom?

New Beck record before summer?

Today In Music History:
1958 - The Everly Brothers were #1 with "All I Have to Do Is Dream."
1960 - John Flansburgh (They Might Be Giants) was born.
1968 - Lætitia Sadier (Stereolab) was born.
1973 - Paul Simon began his first tour without Art Garfunkel.
1994 - Pearl Jam filed a complaint with the U.S. Justice Department against Ticketmaster.
1997 - Michael Jackson and The Bee Gees were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
2006 - Grant McLennan (The Go-Betweens) died.

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Live Blogging 05/06/08

Posted at 9:02 AM on May 6, 2008 by Barb Abney

11:50 a.m. Sun Kil Moon
They're playing The Varsity on June 6th along with Retribution Gospel Choir.
More...

11:40 a.m. Local Music - Atmosphere
When Life Gives You Lemons, You Paint That S#@! Gold is our CD Of The Week.
Get your own copy when you support The Current online.
They're playing Soundset 08 May 25th along with Dilated Peoples, Aesop Rock, Brother Ali, P.O.S. and many more.
Check out the recent in-studio interview/performance as well as the Fakebook appearance with Chuck D.
More...

11:30 a.m. Local Music - Dosh
Wolves and Wishes will be released next week.
Check out the in-studio interview/performance.
Dosh will be playing First Avenue along with P.O.S. on June 27th
More...

11:15 a.m. Local Music - Tapes 'n Tapes
Check out the video for "Hang Them All."
They've been asked to help with more charity events.
More..

11:10 a.m. The Wombats
They're playing a HUGE homecoming gig in Liverpool in November.
Here's the "Moving To New York" video.

10:30 a.m. The Black Keys
They're playing an upcoming MySpace Secret show.
More...

10:25 a.m.The National
They recently designed a t-shirt for The Yellow Bird Project.
A Skin, A Night, the DVD detailing the making of Boxer will be released on May 20th.
Tickets are on sale now for their June 5th date at The Xcel with Modest Mouse and R.E.M.
More...

10:20 a.m. Bob Mould
You can blog-stalk him here.

10:10 a.m. Amy Winehouse
Apparently, she won't be recording the next James Bond theme.
Back To Black has just become the biggest selling album on Amazon.

Song Of The Day Info - Local Music - The Plastic Constellations
Today on our Song Of The Day Podcast we're featuring The Plastic Constellations with the tune "Black Market Pandas" from their album We Appreciate You.
More...

10:00 a.m. Bon Iver
They'll be playing Rock The Garden which is now SOLD OUT along with Cloud Cult, The New Pornographers and Andrew Bird.
More...

9:50 a.m. Jim Noir
You can still listen to his SxSW performance in our archives.
More...

9:40 a.m. R.E.M.
Tickets are on sale now for their June 5th date at The Xcel with Modest Mouse and The National.
More...

9:35 a.m. Frightened Rabbit
They're playing The 400 Bar with French Kicks on May 31st.
More...

9:30 a.m. Local Music - Brother Ali
He's playing Soundset '08.
More...

9:20 a.m. The Young Knives
Superabundance is out now.
They'll be playing a couple of stateside dates next month.
More...

9:10 a.m. The Last Shadow Puppets
The band is made up of Alex Turner (Arctic Monkeys) and Miles Kane (The Rascals).
Their debut album The Age Of The Understatement hit the shelves today..
More...

"My 3 Songs" for Tuesday

Posted at 2:15 PM on May 6, 2008 by Steve Seel

We continue today to give some of our local music luminaries a chance to pick their 3-song sets, as part of our MN150 celebrations all week long. Today, we hear from Ian Anderson, president of both Afternoon Records (the label he started in high school) and Say Rah Records, and guitarist for local band One for the Team, which just signed to Militia Group. Ian also does press for Vitriol Independent Promotions and blogs for MFR (Minneapolis F-ing Rocks).

Ian's set:

1) Coconut Records, "West Coast"
2) Sloan, "She Says What She Means"
3) Weezer, "Across the Sea"

That was a a triple-play of some guitar-pop goodness, Ian. Delicious. Thanks!!!

The Stream 05/07/08

Posted at 8:56 AM on May 7, 2008 by Barb Abney (1 Comments)

The Police announce their final concert date.

My Bloody Valentine announce more dates.

The Joe Strummer documentary The Future Is Unwritten will be released on June 24th.

Today In Music History:
1946 - Bill Danoff (Starland Vocal Band) was born.
1961 - Phil Campbell (Motorhead) was born.
1983 - Paul Weller unveiled Style Council at a gig in London.
1986 - Matt Helders (Arctic Monkeys drummer) was born.
1988 - Terence Trent D'arby's "Wishing Well" was the #1 single.
1998 - Eddie Rabbitt ("I Love A Rainy Night") died.

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Live Blogging 05/07/08

Posted at 9:33 AM on May 7, 2008 by Barb Abney (1 Comments)

11:50 a.m. R.E.M.
Tickets are on sale now for their June 5th date at The Xcel with Modest Mouse and The National.
More...

11:00 a.m. Black Kids In-Studio Interview/Performance
They are the latest "darlings of the blogosphere." Their (Bernard Butler produced) debut album Partie Traumatic wil be released in late July.
They're currently out on the road with Cut Copy.
More...

10:55 a.m. Local Music - Mason Jennings
His new release In The Ever, will be released on the 20th.
You can pre-order it here.
More...

10:35 a.m. Greg Laswell
His new EP How the Day Sounds is available now. His forthcoming full length, 3 Flights From Alto Nido is expected to be released in July.
He's playing Fine Line Music Cafe on Jun 6th.
More...

10:10 a.m. Billy Bragg
He's playing The Cedar Cultural Center on June 13th.
You can still listen to his SxSW performance in our archives.
More...

Song Of The Day Info - Local Music - Dosh
Today on our Song Of The Day Podcast we're featuring Dosh with the tune "The Magic Stick" from the album Wolves and Wishes which will be released next week.
Check out the in-studio interview/performance.
Dosh will be playing First Avenue along with P.O.S. on June 27th
More...

9:50 a.m. Clinic
They're playing 7th Street Entry on May 13th.
More...

9:40 a.m. The Black Lips
They'll be opening for The Raconteurs on upcoming dates.
More...

9:30 a.m. The Kills
They're playing The Triple Rock on May 11th.
More...

9:20 a.m. Fleet Foxes
They're playing 7th Street Entry on Jul 20th.
More...

9:15 a.m. Peter Murphy
He's playing The Fine Line on June 16th.
More...

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"My 3 Songs" for Wednesday

Posted at 12:51 PM on May 7, 2008 by Steve Seel

Continuing with our Minnesota 150 week here on My Three Songs as we give local musicians and music notables their crack at contributing three-song sets, today we've got Eric Lovold, of The Alarmists!

Eric says, "My theme is spring. We (The Alarmists) just put out spring singles because spring songs make people want to be outside and drive with their windows open."

1) The Zombies, "Care of Cell 44" ("best spring song ever?" muses Eric)
2) The Dandy Warhols, "Boys Better"
3) The Sleepy Jackson, "Come to This"

That's the second Zombies song that's been requested this week ... hmmm, could there be something about their sound that says "thawing"?

The Stream 05/08/08

Posted at 8:53 AM on May 8, 2008 by Barb Abney

The Vaselines to reunite for two festival shows this summer.

Amy Winehouse has been arrested.

There won't be a Vegoose Fest this year.

Today In Music History:
1911 - Robert Johnson was born.
1940 - Paul Gadd (AKA Gary Glitter) was born.
1940 - Ricky Nelson was born.
1951 - Chris Frantz (Talking Heads) was born.
1967 - Gerry And The Pacemakers announced they were splitting up.
1976 - Martha Wainwright was born.
1976 - John Sebastian (former lead singer of the Lovin Spoonful) was at #1 with "Welcome Back" the theme to Welcome Back Kotter.
2006 - The Rolling Stones called off their European tour after guitarist Keith Richards underwent emergency brain surgery.

Live Blogging 05/08/08

Posted at 9:31 AM on May 8, 2008 by Barb Abney

11:20 a.m. The Kills
They're playing The Triple Rock Sunday night.
More...

11:15 a.m. Local Music - Cloud Cult
See the video for "Everybody Here Is A Cloud" here.
They're playing the SOLD OUT Rock The Garden along with The New Pornographers, Andrew Bird and Bon Iver
You could win tickets to Rock The Garden.
More...

10:45 a.m. Nine Inch Nails
They're playing Target Center on August 2nd.
Grab the latest record Slip, for free.
More...

10:40 a.m. Metric
Unveiled a new song at Coachella.

Song Of The Day Info - Our Side of Town: A Red House Records 25th Year Collection
Today on our Song Of The Day Podcast we're featuring Meg Hutchinson with the tune "Ready" from Our Side Of Town: A Red House Records 25th Year Collection.
More Red House Records here and/or here.
More Meg Hutchinson..

9:50 a.m. Someone Still Loves You Boris Yeltsin
They're playing 7th Street Entry May 24th.
More...

9:40 a.m. Martha Wainwright
I Know You're Married But I've Got Feelings Too will be in stores on June 10th.
Today is her 32nd birthday!
More...

9:30 a.m. Local Music - Polara
Thier CD release show for Beekeeping is this Friday evening at The Varsity. with Joe Werner of Strange Lights, Mercurial Rage, The Mood Swings and The Alarmists
More...

9:25 a.m. Portishead
Geoff blogged about their Coachella appearance.

9:10 a.m. The Submarines
Their latest effort is Honeysuckle Weeks.
They have upcoming gigs with Headlights.
More...

"My 3 Songs" for Thursday

Posted at 12:32 PM on May 8, 2008 by Steve Seel

Another Minnesota music luminary today, as we continue with our week-long MN 150 edition of My Three Songs.

Andrea Myers is Music Editor at City Pages; she's contributed to Reveille Magazine, Howwastheshow.com, Vita.mn, Pulse of the Twin Cities, Rift Magazine, and Alarm Press. Andrea's songs (which are also two-thirds local):

1) Ani DiFranco, "Shy"
2) Brother Ali, "Forest Whitaker"
3) Sam Keenan, "That Was Then"

She says, "These songs are perfect for driving around with the windows down!" This is truly the theme that has emerged this week; I think it's just proof that when you combine our shared love of music with our love of springtime in Minnesota, we're all pretty much in heaven.

Thanks Andrea, and thanks for your writerly contributions to the local landscape.

The Stream 05/09/08

Posted at 9:06 AM on May 9, 2008 by Barb Abney

Win tickets to see Coldplay for free.

Margot & The Nuclear So & So's former drummer has died.

Yaz (or Yazoo, if you prefer) are reuniting, touring and releasing a box-set.

Today In Music History:
1935 - Nokie Edwards (The Ventures) was born.
1950 - Tom Petersson (Cheap Trick) was born.
1962 - Dave Gahan (Depeche Mode) was born.
1962 - Paul Heaton (Housemartins, The Beautiful South) was born.
1970 - The Guess Who's "American Woman" was #1.
1980 - "I Don't Like Mondays" by The Boomtown Rats won the best pop song at the 25th Ivor Novello Awards.
1998 - Jimmy Page appeared on SNL with rapper Sean 'Puffy' Combs to perform a tune from the Godzilla soundtrack.

Do The Shuffle

Posted at 1:50 PM on May 9, 2008 by Mac Wilson (1 Comments)

Let's rock and roll!

The Impressions - "Same Thing It Took"
The great thing about the Impressions is how many of their songs have become standards to me without even knowing it. When listening to a compilation of theirs, I was stunned at the number of tracks I recognized.

The Alarmists - "New Romans"
Appropriately, a track from a local band I've been enjoying over the last few years. The synths make me think of some ancient AM '70s Gold song, which I mean as a compliment. [I have substituted another Alarmists song in lieu of the inexplicable absence of "New Romans" from the Imeem database.] The Alarmists' Eric Lovold submitted his own My Three Songs set earlier this week in honor of MN150, the state's 150th birthday. What are you doing to celebrate?

The Gothic Archies - "Dreary, Dreary"
One of Stephin Merritt's many side-projects teamed up with Daniel Handler and wrote a song for each of the Lemony Snicket audiobooks. The compilation, The Tragic Treasury, has piqued my interest for this book series (I've never read Harry Potter, either), and it's good to hear Merritt being depressing, but having fun while doing it.

Johnny Cash - "Hurt"
Speaking of having fun, Johnny Cash recorded this Nine Inch Nails cover for his American IV release; perhaps you've heard it. You may also be familiar with the accompanying music video, which is both catastrophically depressing and sadly uplifting: the former for its subject matter and depiction of the passing of time, the latter because of its technical virtuosity -- it may be the greatest video of all time.

Wilco - "The Late Greats"
In various other projects and forums, I've probably written a thousand words on this song. Let's just say I couldn't imagine A Ghost Is Born ending other way.

I'm disappointed, because song #6 that came up on the iPod was Elton John's "Goodbye Yellow Brick Road". But I suppose it's for the best, as that song warrants an entry all its own...

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Live Blogging 05/09/08

Posted at 9:28 AM on May 9, 2008 by Barb Abney

11:55 a.m. My Morning Jacket
Evil Urges is due in stores on June 10th.
They'll be on SNL tomorrow night.
More...

11:45 a.m. Nine Inch Nails
They're playing Target Center on August 2nd.
Grab the latest record Slip, for free.
More...

11:30 a.m. Martha Wainwright
I Know You're Married But I've Got Feelings Too will be in stores on June 10th.
More...

10:40 a.m. Local Music - Atmosphere
When Life Gives You Lemons, You Paint That S#@! Gold is our CD Of The Week.
Get your own copy when you support The Current online.
They're playing Soundset 08 May 25th along with Dilated Peoples, Aesop Rock, Brother Ali, P.O.S. and many more.
Check out the recent in-studio interview/performance as well as the Fakebook appearance with Chuck D.
More...

10:35 Local Music - The Plastic Constellations
You can still grab the tune "Black Market Pandas" on our Song Of The Day Podcast page.
More...

10:10 a.m. R.E.M.
They're playing The Xcel on June 5th with Modest Mouse and The National.
More...

Song Of The Day Info - Local Music - Polara
Today on our Song Of The Day Podcast we're featuring local music from Polara with the tune "Longest Day" from Beekeeping.
Thier CD release show is tonight at The Varsity. with Joe Werner of Strange Lights, Mercurial Rage, The Mood Swings and The Alarmists
More...

9:50 a.m. Weezer
Their 6th album will be released on June 24th.
If your pre-order it you can grab a limited edition red 7" single of "Pork & Beans."
More...

9:15 a.m. Rilo Kiley
They're playing First Avenue on May 22nd.
More...

9:10 a.m. Beulah (related)
Miles is recording again!

9:00 a.m. Tegan & Sara
They're coming back to town with the the True Colors tour along with Cyndi Lauper, The B-52's and others.
More...

"My 3 Songs" for Friday

Posted at 2:10 PM on May 9, 2008 by Steve Seel

Today we have our final entry in our week-long Minnesota 150 edition of My Three Songs, where we've been inviting local music luminaries to submit their three-song sets. Today: Peter Mielech, partner at Modern Radio Records since 2005. Peter says:

"Would it be totally pretentious to choose 3 local songs from bands on Modern Radio? I've been spending some time revisiting the Modern Radio catalog in preparation for our 9 year anniversary event on May 31st at the Turf Club. I'd like to choose songs from past and present releases that sometimes get overlooked."

1) The Vets, "Equilateral Angel"
2) Cave Deaths, "Hysterical"
3) Jim and the French Vanilla, "My Teacher"

Congrats on the 9 years Peter, and thanks for helping to showcase some of Modern Radio's stuff for us today.

It's been a great week, and thanks to EVERYONE who pitched in with a special set on My Three Songs! Next week, the dancefloor is open to all once again.

Guest DJ Set 5-9-08

Posted at 9:40 PM on May 9, 2008 by Mark Wheat

Occasionally on this regular feature we warp the rules a little bit, like tonight...
Four Tet is the name that Kieran Hebden has been working under for the past 10 years since leaving the band Fridge. Initially he was pegged as being one of the foremost purveyors of 'folktronica' a weird genre label that sprang up to try to explain artists who were using electronic signatures in almost the style of a folk singer. He's also spent time recently working with jazz drummer Steve Reid and compiled an awesome DJ Kicks set in 06. So he can DJ, mixing other peoples work and make great stuff himself like this new cd, 30 mins long with 4 distinct tracks that refer to each other and are perhaps more traditionally 'techno' than he has been in the past. It's called 'Ringer' and is available on CD through Domino Records;
1. Ringer
2. Ribbons
3. Swimmer
4. Wing Body Wing

Train Songs

Posted at 3:20 PM on May 10, 2008 by Mark Wheat (16 Comments)

It's the very first National Train Day, the birth of transcontinental travel and an indication of how important the trains were to the development of the nation. Which is probably why there are so many 'train songs'. Not just with lyrics about the train but also musical references to its sound and rythm. A lot of early American music is based on it and it perpetuates today, despite the unfortunate demise of the nation's rail system.
I've always had a strange afinity for these songs, perhaps because my grandfather was an engine driver and I always loved travelling on them when young. Check this afternoons playlist for the ones I played and if you have a favourite, lyrically or sonically, I would love to get your suggestions to add to my ever growing list of train songs!

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Mothers Day Brunch

Posted at 10:50 AM on May 11, 2008 by Bill DeVille (4 Comments)

Here we are on Mothers Day. In honor of the Mom, we are spinning an hour of "songs for moms"... Mothers Day Brunch from 11 to noon.

What is your favorite Mothers Day song?

Mine has gotta be Merle Haggard, "Mama Tried"

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The Stream 05/12/08

Posted at 8:50 AM on May 12, 2008 by Barb Abney

The fifth Pancake Mountain DVD featuring indie rockers, puppets and good, clean family fun is out now.

Radiohead are not pleased about the release of their Greatest Hits.

New species of spider has been named after Neil Young.

Today In Music History:
1942 - Ian Dury was born.
1950 - Billy Squier was born.
1958 - The Everly Brothers were at #1 with "All I Have To Do Is Dream."
1971 - Mick Jagger married Bianca Macias.
1977 - Virgin records announced they had signed The Sex Pistols (after they had been dropped by EMI and A&M records in less than 6 months.)
1986 - Joe Strummer's driving priviledges were suspended after he was convicted of drunk driving.
2001 - Perry Como died

Live Blogging 05/12/08

Posted at 9:13 AM on May 12, 2008 by Barb Abney

11:45 a.m. Arthur Yoria
He wants your help in choosing what songs make it onto his new record.

11:30 a.m. Local Music - Little Man
Get some Little Man ringtones!
They're playing First Avenue Friday night as part of the David Bowie tribute that benefits the Minnesota Valley Humane Society.
More...

11:15 a.m. Local Music - Cloud Cult
See the video for "Everybody Here Is A Cloud" here.
The Current is presenting dates on their West Coast Tour along with Kid Dakota
They're playing the SOLD OUT Rock The Garden along with The New Pornographers, Andrew Bird and Bon Iver
You could win tickets to Rock The Garden.
More...

11:10 a.m. Lupe Fiasco
He's playing Target Center along with Kanye on June 11th.
More..

10:50 a.m. Mates Of State
Re-Arrange Us will be released May 20th.
Their Babble Blog is a must-read for parents.
More...

10:40 a.m. The Kills
Check out the in-studio interview/perfomrance they recorded yesterday.
More...

10:25 a.m. Does It Offend You, Yeah?
They're playing First Avenue tonight.
They're also lending support on some of the upcoming NIN dates.
More...

10:15 a.m. Modest Mouse
They're playing The Xcel on June 5th with R.E.M. and The National.
More...

10:10 a.m. Martha Wainwright
I Know You're Married But I've Got Feelings Too will be in stores on June 10th.
More...

Song Of The Day Info - M83
Today on our Song Of The Day Podcast we're featuring M83 with the tune "Graveyard Girl" from their album Saturdays = Youth which is in stores now.
They're playing The Triple Rock on May 28th.
More...

9:50 a.m. Aesop Rock
He's playing Soundset 08 May 25th along with Atmosphere, Dilated Peoples, Brother Ali, P.O.S. and many more.
More...

9:40 a.m. Grandaddy
Jason Lytle has released his solo album.
More...

9:30 a.m. Elvis Costello
Momofuku is out now.
He's out on the road with The Police.
More...

9:20 a.m. Sun Kil Moon
They're playing The Varsity on June 6th along with Retribution Gospel Choir.
More...

9:15 a.m. Death Cab For Cutie
Narrow Stairs will be released tomorrow.
They're playing The Orpheum on June 2nd.
More...

"My 3 Songs" for Monday

Posted at 1:51 PM on May 12, 2008 by Steve Seel

A simple explanation from Matt Ahart from Excelsior MN today: "Because they are pleasing to the ears."

1) Tapes n' Tapes, "Just Drums"
2) Pixies, "Here Comes Your Man"
3) Andrew Bird, "Simple X"

Good enough for me, Matt. Thanks.

The Stream 05/13/08

Posted at 9:00 AM on May 13, 2008 by Barb Abney

Common will be in the new Terminator movie.

What's your favorite Bowie tune?

Green Day to tour as Foxboro Hot Tubs.

Today In Music History:
1943 - Mary Wells (first artist to record on the Motown label) was born.
1950 - Stevie Wonder was born.
1966 - Alison Goldfrapp was born.
1971 - Grace Slick (Jefferson Airplane) was hospitalized after she crashed her Mercedes in San Francisco.
1978 - Yvonne Elliman's "If I Can't Have You" was #1.
1985 - Bruce Springsteen married Julianne Phillips.
1988 - Chet Baker died.
2003 - The Darkness signed to East West Records.

Live Blogging 05/13/08

Posted at 9:01 AM on May 13, 2008 by Barb Abney

Tunes On The Telly Tonight:
Death Cab for Cutie on Letterman

11:45 a.m. Catherine Wheel
New Rob Dickinson download.

11:35 a.m. The Submarines
Their latest effort is Honeysuckle Weeks.
They have upcoming gigs with Headlights.
More...

11:20 a.m. The Raconteurs
Here's an interesting interview with The Guardian.

11:15 a.m. Death Cab For Cutie
Narrow Stairs hit the shelves today.
They're playing The Orpheum on June 2nd.
More...

11:00 a.m. Iron & Wine
They're playing First Avenue on June 11th.
More...

10:45 a.m. M.I.A.
She's playing The Myth tonight.
Check out tix prices/details for her upcoming MOMA show.
More...

10:25 a.m. Ladytron
"Ghosts" is the first single from their forthcoming album Velocifero which will be released on June 3rd.
Pre-order it here.
More...

10:20 a.m. Local Music - OME
Mark Edwards is taking time off from the OME project to work more on The Arrest.
More...

Song Of The Day Info - No Age
Today on our Song Of The Day Podcast we're featuring No Age with the tune "Cappo" from their album Nouns.
They're playing The Triple Rock Social Club on Jul 21st.
More...

9:50 a.m. Stereolab
They're playing First Avenue on October 12th.
More...

9:40 a.m. Local Music - Chris Koza
The Dark Delirious Morning is the new record.
The CD release show is Saturday, June 7th at First Avenue with This World Fair, These Modern Socks, and The Parlour Suite.
More...

9:35 a.m. The Breeders
They're playing First Avenue on May 30th.
More...

9:10 a.m. Coldplay
Viva La Vida Or Death And All His Friends will be released on June 17th.
Pre-order it now to get some instant Coldplay gratification.
They're playing Excel Energy Center on July 8th.
More...

9:00 a.m. Billy Bragg
He's playing The Cedar Cultural Center on June 13th.
More...

The Stream 05/14/08

Posted at 9:00 AM on May 14, 2008 by Barb Abney (1 Comments)

Weezer's new album will be released 3 weeks earlier than scheduled.

Amy Winehouse to model for Julien Macdonald during London's Fashion Week.

Robert Smith talks about the new Cure single.

Today In Music History:
1936 - Bobby Darin was born.
1952 - David Byrne (Talking Heads) was born.
1957 - Elvis Presley was rushed to a hospital after he swallowed a porcelain cap from one of his front teeth.
1962 - Ian Astbury (The Cult) was born.
1976 - Keith Relf (The Yardbirds) died after he electrocuted himself while playing his guitar.
1988 - Led Zeppelin featuring Jason Bonham on drums, reunited for the Atlantic Records 40th anniversary party in New York.
1998 - Frank Sinatra died of a heart attack.

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"My 3 Songs" for Tuesday

Posted at 3:23 PM on May 13, 2008 by Steve Seel (1 Comments)

Brian Thompson of Plymouth MN writes today, "When I miss someone, I really miss them -- and listening to songs that affirm just how normal it is to feel like this helps me to feel better. While they're not exactly happy songs, sometimes bit of melancholia is good for the soul."

1) The Honeydogs, "I Miss You"
2) Dar Williams, "I'll Miss You 'Til I Meet You"
3) Fountains of Wayne, "Someone to Love"

Lyrically, you're right about the melancholia, Brian -- but I wouldn't necessarily call those Honeydogs or FOW songs morose musically. But they make a great set and that's the point here! Nicely done.

I was reminded recently of the tune that many feel offers up the last word on missing someone. If it's not the ultimate, it sure is a pretty strong contender.

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David Byrne Wants You to "Play the Building"

Posted at 5:06 PM on May 13, 2008 by Steve Seel

This seems like a natural extension of what Dave's pal Brian Eno was doing several years ago, when Eno turned empty buildings into works of slowly mutating visual art. Starting May 31, Byrne is taking over New York's Battery Maritime Building and turning the whole structure into a giant musical instrument.

Why is this kind of thing so cool? I think it has to do with something Eno himself suggested years ago, as part of the motivation behind his Ambient Music recordings. Essentially, he said that most of his art was about "making special places," arising from the same subconcious place that inspires a child to build a fort out of a blanket draped over the dinner table. I see his act of co-opting of the structures that were designed for other purposes and turning them into "art" (i.e. "play") as the same thing; Byrne's musical building merely takes this to its logical extreme, and lets you bang on the hood of Dad's Ford LTD with Mom's cooking spatulas.

Still, as for "turning your location into music," this classic piece by New York percussionist David van Tieghem is pretty hard to beat (the sloppy video editing hasn't aged well, but it's still fun).

Live Blogging 05/14/08

Posted at 9:04 AM on May 14, 2008 by Barb Abney

Tunes On The Telly Tonight:
Kate Nash on Leno
Black Keys on Conan
Joe Jackson on Jimmy Kimmel

11:50 a.m. Sun Kil Moon
They're playing The Varsity on June 6th along with Retribution Gospel Choir.
More...

11:40 a.m. Silver Jews
They're playing an upcoming 4-day musical conference in Liverpool.

11:15 a.m. M83
They're playing The Triple Rock on May 28th.
More...

10:50 a.m. We Are Scientists
Brain Thrust Mastery hit the shelves yesterday.
More...

10:45 a.m. Nine Inch Nails
They're playing Target Center on August 2nd.
Grab the latest record Slip, for free.
More...

10:20 a.m. Justin Townes Earle
The son of Steve Earle recently released his debut, The Good Life.
He was recently featured on Morning Edition.
More...

Song Of The Day Info - The Last Shadow Puppets
Today on our Song Of The Day Podcast we're featuring The Last Shadow Puppets (Alex Turner of Arctic Monkeys and Miles Kane of The Rascals) with the title track of their debut album The Age Of The Understatement.
The album is our CD of The Week.
More...

9:40 a.m. The Watson Twins
Their new album Fire Songs will be in stores on June 24th.
More...

9:20 a.m. Alejandro Escovedo
His new album, Real Animal will be released on June 24th.
More...

9:15 a.m. Local Music - Cloud Cult
The Current is presenting dates on their West Coast Tour along with Kid Dakota
They're playing the SOLD OUT Rock The Garden along with The New Pornographers, Andrew Bird and Bon Iver
More...

The Stream 05/15/08

Posted at 9:00 AM on May 15, 2008 by Barb Abney

Bob Dylan, The Raconteurs and others to play Anthony Keidis (RHCP) curated New American Music Festival taking place in Pittsburgh in August.

Classic My Bloody Valentine albums to be remastered and re-released next month.

Jose Gonzalez to release megamixes featuring Feist, Jarvis Cocker and more.

Today In Music History:
1918 - Eddy Arnold was born.
1945 - The first American album chart was introduced.
1948 - Brian Eno was born.
1959 - Andrew Eldritch (Sisters Of Mercy) was born.
1966 - Pete Wiggs (Saint Etienne) was born.
1977 - Procol Harum made their final live appearance in New York.
1982 - Stevie Wonder and Paul McCartney were at #1 with "Ebony And Ivory."
1997 - Courtney Love sold the Seattle home she once shared with Kurt Cobain.
2003 - June Carter Cash died.

"My 3 Songs" for Wednesday

Posted at 5:25 PM on May 14, 2008 by Steve Seel (2 Comments)

Benjamin Barnes writes today, "I am currently thoroughly enjoying these songs ... and they have 'Current' written all over them!"

1) The Dodos, "Walking"
2) Bon Iver, "Skinny Love"
3) Vampire Weekend, "Campus"

Thanks Benjamin!

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Live Blogging 05/15/08

Posted at 9:10 AM on May 15, 2008 by Barb Abney (4 Comments)

Tunes On The Telly Tonight:
MGMT on Conan
Someone Still Loves You Boris Yeltsin on Carson Daly

11:45 a.m. Ladytron
"Ghosts" is the first single from their forthcoming album Velocifero which will be released on June 3rd.
Pre-order it here.
More...

11:40 a.m. Local Music - The Small Cities
Look for them in City Pages next Wednesday and KARE 11's Showcase MN next Thursday. Their CD release show is next Friday at the Turf Club with Mighty Fairly & Fitzgerald.
More...

11:25 a.m. Broken Social Scene
Brendan Canning's solo debut, Something For All of Us will be in stores July 22nd. It's the second "Broken Social Scene Presents" release behind Kevin Drew's
...Spirit If.
The band will be playing Lollapalooza and a few other dates this summer.
More...

11:20 a.m. Local Music - Chris Koza
He's playing the Sesquicentennial celebration this weekend.
The Dark Delirious Morning is the new record.
The CD release show is Saturday, June 7th at First Avenue with This World Fair, These Modern Socks, and The Parlour Suite.
More...

11:15 a.m. Coldplay
Viva La Vida Or Death And All His Friends will be released on June 17th.
Pre-order it now to get some instant Coldplay gratification.
They're playing Excel Energy Center on July 8th.
I've got another chance for you to beat-the-box-office and win tickets tomorrow morning.
More...

11:00 a.m. The New Pornographers
They're playing the SOLD OUT Rock The Garden along with Cloud Cult, Bon Iver and Andrew Bird.
More..

10:45 a.m. Bittersweet
Their new record, Drama was released earlier this week.
More...

10:35 a.m. The Submarines
Their latest effort is Honeysuckle Weeks.
More...

Song Of The Day Info - Does It Offend You, Yeah?
Today on our Song Of The Day Podcast we're featuring Does It Offend You, Yeah? with the tune "With A Heavy Heart" from their debut album You Have No Idea What You're Getting Yourself Into.
They're lending support on some of the upcoming NIN dates.
More...

9:55 a.m. The Last Shadow Puppets
The Last Shadow Puppets are Alex Turner (Arctic Monkeys) and Miles Kane (The Rascals.) The Age Of The Understatement is our CD of The Week.
More...

9:45 a.m. Local Music - Brother Ali
He's playing Soundset '08.
More...

9:35 a.m. The M's
Their new record is RealCloseOnes. It will be released on June 3rd.
They're playing 400 Bar on June 6th.
More...

9:30 a.m. Aimee Mann
Her new release, Smilers will be in stores June 3rd.
She's playing The Minnesota Zoo on June 12th.
More...

9:10 a.m. My Morning Jacket
Evil Urges is due in stores on June 10th.
They're playing The Orpheum on October 2nd.
We've got another chance for you to beat-the-box-office and win tickets this afternoon with Mary.
More...

9:00 a.m. Mark Olson
The tune "Clifton Bridge" is named after a suspension bridge in Bristol, England.
The Salvation Blues was inspired by the places that he visited while roaming the world in 2006.
He's got a European tour starting next month
More...

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The Stream 05/16/08

Posted at 9:09 AM on May 16, 2008 by Barb Abney

Radiohead talks about a miserable concert experience.

Courtney Love throws out album she's been working on for three years to start fresh.

Bee Gees on Broadway?

Today In Music History:
1946 - Robert Fripp (King Crimson) was born.
1951 - Jonathan Richman was born.
1965 - Krist Novoselic (Nirvana) was born.
1966 - The Beach Boys released Pet Sounds.
1966 - Janet Jackson was born.
1969 - Pete Townshend spent the night in jail for assaulting a man during a Who gig.
1973 - Will White (Propellerheads) was born.
1974 - Neil Young made an unannounced appearance in New York and played songs from his new album On The Beach.
1984 - Ozzy Osbourne was arrested in Memphis, Tennessee for being "staggering drunk" in public.
1986 - Elvis Costello married Caitlin O'Riordan.

"My 3 Songs" for Thursday

Posted at 1:08 PM on May 15, 2008 by Steve Seel (6 Comments)

Goin' to California ... Amy Wirkkala from Ramsey MN writes today, "My sister and I are moving out to California next week. We are leaving everything behind, including The Current, for a brand new start. I feel like these songs help to describe the feelings we both are having at this time. I also feel like this is the last time I have a chance of hearing these amazing artists on the radio. Hearing these songs will help us realize that we are following our California dreams."

1) Billy Bragg and Wilco, "California Stars"
2) Mason Jennings, "California (pt. II)"
3) Kings of Leon, "California Waiting"

Travel well, Amy. I hope CA brings you all the things you're looking for. And don't forget the live stream...

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Do The Shuffle

Posted at 1:20 PM on May 16, 2008 by Mac Wilson (1 Comments)

Patrick Park - "Here We Are"
One of my favorite artists delivers a nice summary of where are are as a country and as human beings, and gives a hopeful look forward.

R.E.M. - "The Wrong Child"
Mandolins and more mandolins.

M.I.A. - "Jimmy"
An urgent pop highlight from last year's album Kala. Based on "Jimmy Jimmy Jimmy Aaja", from the soundtrack of Disco Dancer, which was basically the Bollywood Saturday Night Fever.

Traffic - "Many a Mile to Freedom"
Steve Winwood probably gets the vocalist spot in my fantasy all-star band.

The Police - "Hole in My Life"
AKA, the song that appears after "Roxanne" that I always skip through to get to "Can't Stand Losing You".

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Live Blogging 05/16/08

Posted at 9:26 AM on May 16, 2008 by Barb Abney

Tunes On The Telly Tonight:
Kathleen Edwards on Leno
Kate Nash on Jimmy Kimmel

11:40 a.m. Someone Still Loves You Boris Yeltsin
They're playing 7th Street Entry May 24th.
More...

11:35 a.m. The Breeders
They're playing First Avenue on May 30th.
More...

11:20 a.m. Spiritualized
Watch the video for "Soul On Fire."
Songs In A&E will be released on the 27th.
More...

11:15 a.m. Aimee Mann
Her new release, Smilers will be in stores June 3rd.
She's playing The Minnesota Zoo on June 12th.
More...

10:50 a.m. Alejandro Escovedo
His new album, Real Animal will be released on June 24th.
More...

10:45 a.m. Andrew Bird
He'll be playing the SOLD OUTRock The Garden along with Cloud Cult, The New Pornographers and Bon Iver.
More...

10:35 a.m. EL-P
He's playing Triple Rock with Dizzee Rascal tonight.
He'll also be in for an in-studio interview/performance later today.
More...

Song Of The Day Info - Local Music - France Has The Bomb
Today on our Song Of The Day Podcast we're featuring France Has The Bomb with the tune "World Of Mirrors" from their 7".
Hear from them again this Sunday night on The Local Show with Chris Roberts.
Here's a recent City Pages feature.
More..

9:50 a.m. M83
They're playing The Triple Rock on May 28th.
More...

9:30 a.m. Ladytron
"Ghosts" is the first single from their forthcoming album Velocifero which will be released on June 3rd.
Pre-order it here.
More...

9:20 a.m. Local Music - Cloud Cult
The Current is presenting dates on their West Coast Tour along with Kid Dakota
They're playing the SOLD OUT Rock The Garden along with The New Pornographers, Andrew Bird and Bon Iver
More...

9:05 a.m. Sun Kil Moon
They're playing The Varsity on June 6th along with Retribution Gospel Choir.
More...

9:00 a.m. Local Music - Dan Wilson
He's released Be Free, a new download only EP.
More...

"My 3 Songs" for Friday

Posted at 4:30 PM on May 16, 2008 by Steve Seel

Another summer-set today ... this time from Jon Bauer of Brooklyn Center. Jon says:

"I find myself daydreaming more often about long summer days and their limitless idealism. These three songs are significant because they represent the anticipation of the coming summer (Lone Summer Dream), the wonderful realization that you'e in a beautiful summer moment (Summertime Thing), and the yearning for summers long gone by (One Summer Dream). Both sadly nostalgic and warmly optimistic, these songs represent the lifecycle of my favorite season."

1) The Soundtrack Of Our Lives, "Lone Summer Dream"
2) Chuck Prophet, "Summertime Thing"
3) Electric Light Orchestra, "One Summer Dream"

Thanks Jon. Summer is coming, and spring will be in full force this weekend ... enjoy it!!!

Guest DJ Set 5-16-08

Posted at 8:08 PM on May 16, 2008 by Jill Riley (1 Comments)

Robert Hood, one of the pioneers of Detroit Minimal Techhouse.
Check out this review on a great site for more deets on DJ's.
Tonight's set is an exclusive radio mix, a sample of the 32 tracks on the new compilation 'fabric 39'.

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"My 3 Songs" for Monday

Posted at 12:03 PM on May 19, 2008 by Steve Seel

Shannon Johnson of Northfield writes, "These are my epic songs. They refer to something greater ... they connect and inspire me. They challenge me, and oftentimes I will find myself repeating them over and over, contemplating their various meanings." She adds, "They are also very long."

1) M83, "Teen Angst"
2) Sigur Ros, "Untitled 4"
3) LCD Soundsystem, "Someone Great"

Let's hear it for long, Shannon! It's no secret that I'm personally a fan of such extended listens. And, that was simply a beautifully assembled set. Bravo.

The Late Stream 5-19-08

Posted at 7:54 PM on May 19, 2008 by Mark Wheat

Raconteurs thrill with guitar theatrics at intimate show in LA

Paul Westerberg talking to the modern media giant!

Which will it be ...like a momentous symphony or bad karaoke?!?

Born on this day ...

1956, Martyn Ware, Heaven 17 & Human League.
1954, Philip Rudd, drums, AC/DC.
1952, Grace Jones, singer, model.
1952, Jeffrey Hyman, (Joey Ramone), vocals, The Ramones.
1950, Romeo Challenger, Showaddywaddy.
1945, Pete Townshend, guitar, vocals, The Who

Tunes on Telly;

Tonight;
NBC: Late Night With Conan O'Brien: Devotchka

Tuesday, May 20:
NBC: Late Night With Conan O'Brien: Mates of State

Wednesday, May 21:
NBC: The Tonight Show With Jay Leno: Al Green
NBC: Late Night With Conan O'Brien: Atmosphere
ABC: Jimmy Kimmel Live: the Kooks

Thursday, May 22:
ABC: Jimmy Kimmel Live: Death Cab for Cutie
FUEL TV: The Daily Habit: The Heavy

Friday, May 23:
FUEL TV: The Daily Habit: Atmosphere

Got Any Graduation Advice?

Posted at 8:43 PM on May 19, 2008 by Mark Wheat (14 Comments)

Thanks for all the calls and emails from those of you who are graduating!
CONGRATULATIONS!!
At this time of year with Colleges and High Schools wrapping up for the summer, I always want to play my fave graduation advice song. We'll feature it around 8.30pm Thursday and if you have any songs that you think do a good job of giving advice for graduates I'd love to expand the set!
If you had to make a commencement speech, which song would you tell the students to listen to, intending to give them a guide for life?

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The Stream 05/20/08

Posted at 8:48 AM on May 20, 2008 by Barb Abney

Siren Music Festival line-up announced.

The dog track where Blur's Parklife cover was shot will be closing.

Liz Phair to celebrate 25th 15th anniversary of Exile In Guyville release by playing the entire album at an acoustic show.

Today In Music History:
1946 - Cher was born.
1961 - Nick Heyward (Haircut 100) was born.
1964 - Rudy Lewis (The Drifters) died.
1978 - Paul McCartney's "With A Little Luck" was #1.
1998 - Tommy Lee (Motley Crue) was sentenced to six months in jail for spousal abuse.

Live Blogging 05/20/08

Posted at 9:25 AM on May 20, 2008 by Barb Abney

11:40 a.m. Death Cab For Cutie
They're playing The Orpheum on June 2nd.
More...

11:30 a.m. Beck
Modern Guilt to be released next month?

11:20 a.m. Rilo Kiley
They're playing First Avenue Thursday night..
More...

11:15 a.m. Local Music - Mason Jennings
In The Ever hit the shelves today.
He's part of the Yahoo Music Who's Next competition.
More...

11:10 a.m. Alejandro Escovedo
His new album, Real Animal will be released on June 24th.
More...

10:50 a.m. Local Music - Atmosphere
They're playing Soundset 08 Sunday along with Dilated Peoples, Aesop Rock, Brother Ali, P.O.S. and many more.
Check out the recent in-studio interview/performance as well as the Fakebook appearance with Chuck D.
More...

10:20 a.m. Local Music - Chris Koza
The Dark Delirious Morning is the new record.
The CD release show is Saturday, June 7th at First Avenue with This World Fair, These Modern Socks, and The Parlour Suite.
More...

Song Of The Day Info - Mates Of State
Today on our Song Of The Day Podcast we're featuring Mates of State with the tune "My Only Offer" from Re-Arrange Us which hit the shelves today.
Re-Arrange yourself!
Re-Arrange Us is The Current's CD Of The Week.
Catch them tonight on Conan
More...

9:50 a.m. Spiritualized
Watch the video for "Soul On Fire."
Songs In A&E will be released on the 27th.
More...

9:40 a.m. Gnarls Barkley
Next month they'll be playing the 150th MySpace Secret Show.

9:35 a.m. James McMurtry
Just Us Kids is in stores now.
More...

9:30 a.m. The Heavy
They'll be featured on Fuel TV's Daily Habit Thursday.
More...

9:20 a.m. Lupe Fiasco
He's playing Target Center along with Kanye on June 11th.
More..

9:00 a.m. Jose Gonzalez
He'll be releasing megamixes featuring Feist, Jarvis Cocker and more.

The Stream 05/21/08

Posted at 9:00 AM on May 21, 2008 by Barb Abney

Tom Waits is The Devil in the flick The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus (see question #30.)

Eagles of Death Metal and and others have been asked to contribute to a menu for Denny's.

The National's new DVD documentary and The Virginia EP have been released.

Today In Music History:
1904 - Fats Waller was born.
1963 - Kevin Shields (My Bloody Valentine) was born.
1964 - Martin Blunt (The Charlatans UK bassist) was born.
1968 - Pete Townshend married designer Karen Astley.
1980 - Five Jimi Hendrix Gold discs were stolen from The Electric Ladyland studios.
2003 - James Brown was pardoned after serving a brief prison term for drug and assault charges.

"My 3 Songs" for Tuesday

Posted at 2:31 PM on May 20, 2008 by Steve Seel (1 Comments)

Loren Kollmar of Mpls writes in today, "(These songs) represent what every man feels every single time he so desperately dosen't want to feel anything."

1) Radiohead, "All I Need"
2) Andy Werth, "Goodnight"
3) Bon Iver, "Skinny Love"

You need say no more, Loren.

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Live Blogging 05/21/08

Posted at 9:09 AM on May 21, 2008 by Barb Abney

Tunes On The Telly Tonight:
Atmosphere on Conan
Al Green on Leno
The Kooks on Jimmy Kimmel

11:50 a.m. Gnarls Barkley
Next month they'll be playing the 150th MySpace Secret Show.
They're also playing one date on Thievery Corporation's upcoming Outernational Tour.

11:40 a.m. The Heavy
They'll be featured on Fuel TV's Daily Habit tomorrow.
More...

11:10 a.m. My Bloody Valentine
Happy Birthday to Kevin Sheilds!
Here's a recent Guardian article about the band.
More...

10:55 a.m. Sun Kil Moon
They're playing The Varsity on June 6th along with Retribution Gospel Choir.
More...

10:45 a.m. Santogold
Watch Santi on MTVu Backstage Pass here.

10:30 A.M. My Brightest Diamond
Her new album, A Thousand Shark's Teeth will be released June 17th.
Pre-order it here.
More...

Song Of The Day Info - Local Music - Mason Jennings
Today on our Song Of The Day Podcast we're featuring local musician Mason Jennings with the tune "I Love You And Buddha Too" from In The Ever which hit shelves yesterday.
Here's Mason teaming up with Matt Costa and Jack Johnson on a live version of this song.
Mason is part of the Yahoo Music Who's Next competition.
More...

9:45 a.m. Local Music - Tapes 'n Tapes
Here's what their tour has been like thus far...
More..

9:20 a.m. The Watson Twins
Their new album Fire Songs will be in stores on June 24th.
Here's their recent in-studio performance.
More...

9:15 a.m. Modest Mouse
They're playing The Xcel on June 5th with R.E.M. and The National.
More...

9:10 a.m. Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
Dig, Lazarus, Dig!!! has been nominated for Best Album in Mojo Honours 2008.
Is that ironic considering Nick's previous letter to MTV?
The US tour is slated for September.
More...

The Stream 05/22/08

Posted at 9:00 AM on May 22, 2008 by Barb Abney

Red Hot Chili Peppers have disbanded for a year to concentrate on personal lives/projects.

Win Vinyl and CD copies of Elvis Costello's Momofuku.

Sonic Youth's greatest songs (as chosen by others) Hits Are For Squares to hit shelves in Starbucks next month.

Today In Music History:
1950 - Bernie Taupin was born.
1959 - Morrissey was born.
1962 - Jesse Valenzuela (Gin Blossoms) was born.
1971 - The Rolling Stones were at #1 with the album Sticky Fingers.
2002 - Adam Ant was charged with possession of an imitation firearm.

"My 3 Songs" for Wednesday

Posted at 3:04 PM on May 21, 2008 by Steve Seel (1 Comments)

More spring fever today ... Patti Black observed the rain-bearing clouds of springtime looming overhead recently and wondered, "What happened to the sunshine?" She says, "I immediately played my favorite song by local band Atmosphere, 'Sunshine.' Two of my other favorite songs are also called 'Sunshine'."

1) Atmosphere, "Sunshine"
2) Orba Squara, "Sunshine"
3) Coco Rosie, "Sunshine"

Keep up the springtime celebrations, folks -- I'm all for it. Thanks Patti!

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United Musicians!

Posted at 7:41 PM on May 21, 2008 by Mark Wheat

The biggest soccer game of the European season was today in Moscow. It was the first time that two English clubs had played in the European Champions Final and although it wasn't an outstanding game, the drama was intense!
My fave team Manchester United won so I wanted to play a ton of Manchester music to celebrate and knew a few musicians who support them, like Rod Stewart, who once put their name in a song! But the NME was very helpful today making a great list of musicians who support the two sides!
Now we have to turn our attention to supporting David Beckham playing for LA, as he is an ex United phenom and our very own MN Thunder!!

Live Blogging 05/22/08

Posted at 9:06 AM on May 22, 2008 by Barb Abney (1 Comments)

Tunes On The Telly Tonight:
Death Cab For Cutie on Jimmy Kimmel
The Heavy on Fuel TV's Daily Habit

11:50 a.m. Weezer
Their 6th album will be released on June 3rd.
If your pre-order it you can grab a limited edition red 7" single of "Pork & Beans."
More Weezer related fun..
More...

11:35 a.m. Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
Dig, Lazarus, Dig!!! has been nominated for Best Album in Mojo Honours 2008.
Is that ironic considering Nick's previous letter to MTV?
The US tour is slated for September.
More...

11:25 a.m. Sharon Jones & The Dap Kings
They're playing The State Fair in August.
More...

11:15 a.m. Local Music - Mason Jennings
You can still grab the tune "I Love You And Buddha Too" on our Song Of The Day Podcast page.
In The Ever was released earlier this week.
Mason is part of the Yahoo Music Who's Next competition.
More...

10:40 a.m. My Morning Jacket
Evil Urges is due in stores on June 10th.
They're playing The Orpheum on October 2nd.
More...

10:35 a.m. Local Music - Jeremy Messersmith
He's playing a gig at The Entry next Friday night.
More...

10:20 a.m. Gnarls Barkley
Next month they'll be playing the 150th MySpace Secret Show.
They're also playing one date on Thievery Corporation's upcoming tour.
More...

Song Of The Day Info - The Submarines
Today on our Song Of The Day Podcast we're featuring The Submarines with the tune "You Me & The Bourgeoisie" from their album Honeysuckle Weeks.
More...

9:50 a.m. Vampire Weekend
They're playing The Accelerator Festival this summer.

9:45 a.m. Mates Of State
Re-Arrange yourself!
Re-Arrange Us is The Current's CD Of The Week. Get your own copy when you support us online.
More...

9:40 a.m. Local Music - Vampire Hands
You can download the tune "Opium Typhoon" AND purchase their Virgin Dust/American Lips release here.
More...

9:30 a.m. We Are Scientists
Brain Thrust Mastery is in stores now.
They're playing The Varsity with Oxford Collapse on Thursday August 7th.
More...

9:25 a.m. Santogold
Here's a lesson about how to pronounce Santi's name and a little insight into the album cover.

9:15 a.m. The Dandy Warhols
Earth To The Dandy Warhols is the title of their forthcoming release.
You can learn more and stream it here..

9:10 a.m. The Heavy
They'll be featured on Fuel TV's Daily Habit tonight.
More...

9:05 a.m. Aimee Mann
Her new release, Smilers will be in stores June 3rd.
She's playing The Minnesota Zoo on June 12th.
More...

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The Stream 05/23/08

Posted at 9:00 AM on May 23, 2008 by Barb Abney

Line-up for New American Music Festival in Pittsburgh announced.

David Gilmour picked up the Lifetime Achievement award and Amy Winehouse was too late to grab her award at the Ivor Novello Awards, yesterday.

Mark Mothersbaugh (Devo) to take postcard illustration art on the road.

Today In Music History:
1928 - Rosemary Clooney was born.
1934 - Robert Moog, inventor of the synthesiser was born.
1944 - Raymond Fulwood (Parliament Funkadelic) was born.
1947 - Bill Hunt (Electric Light Orchestra) was born.
1967 - Philip Selway (Radiohead) was born.
1979 - Tom Petty was forced to file for bankruptcy.
1991 - Michael Lavine took the shots for Nirvana's Nevermind album in Los Angeles.
2000 - Noel Gallagher walked out on an Oasis tour of Europe after repeated arguments with his brother, Liam.

"My 3 Songs" for Thursday

Posted at 12:33 PM on May 22, 2008 by Steve Seel (2 Comments)

In honor of our "daisy day" out on Nicollet Mall -- where we were out in the sunshine giving out daisies to help celebrate springtime -- we took the liberty of picking the tunes just for today.

1) XTC, "Humble Daisy"
2) Eels, "A Daisy Throught Concrete"
3) Ween, "Push the Little Daisies"

Those daisies went fast, too! So if you didn't get one, hope you enjoyed our musical daisies instead.

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Do The Shuffle

Posted at 2:50 PM on May 23, 2008 by Mac Wilson (4 Comments)

The Who - "Love Ain't for Keeping"
I've always liked the way this song is a tranquil little garden among the angst of the rest of Who's Next.

Bon Jovi - "It's My Life"
This is one of those songs I've always associated with my junior year of high school. It has an indomitable spirit that this angsty young man always enjoyed hearing on the radio. Produced by Max Martin, who gained fame by his work with the Backstreet Boys and Britney Spears.

Big Star - "Turn My Back on the Sun"
Weren't you excited when you heard Big Star was releasing its first album in 25-some years in 2005? I was too, until I heard the entire In Space album... That was a rough autumn for Alex Chilton: his album barely made a dent in the charts, and he had to be rescued by helicopter from his New Orleans home following Hurricane Katrina. I should note that this is a pretty nice little pop song that quotes "Wouldn't It Be Nice".

The Beatles - "Being for the Benefit of Mr. Kite!"
I first heard the rough mix on the Anthology (yes, that's correct: I listened to the Anthology before I listened to Sgt. Pepper) and was really intrigued by the organs. The famous story is that George Martin took a bunch of stock organ sounds from the library, snipped them to pieces, tossed them into the air, and spliced them together at random. Because the Beatles have not made any songs available online, I have substituted Eddie Izzard's lovely version from the Across the Universe soundtrack. My sister was on an airplane with Eddie Izzard once.

Yo La Tengo - "Daphnia"
Utterly pointless and plodding track from YLT's 2006, Stephon Marbury-lovin I Am Not Afraid of You.... A while back, I did a blog entry challenging all of you to condense the album down to listenable length; this would be my first track to go. Worthless...no redeeming value whatsoever.

With that, have a great weekend.

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Live Blogging 05/23/08

Posted at 9:09 AM on May 23, 2008 by Barb Abney

11:55 a.m. Sun Kil Moon
They're playing The Varsity on June 6th along with Retribution Gospel Choir.
More...

11:35 a.m. Local Music - Chris Koza
The Dark Delirious Morning is the new record.
The CD release show is Saturday, June 7th at First Avenue with This World Fair, These Modern Socks, and The Parlour Suite.
More...

11:30 a.m. R.E.M.
They're playing The Xcel on June 5th with Modest Mouse and The National.
More...

10:45 a.m. Coldplay
Viva La Vida Or Death And All His Friends will be released on June 17th.
Pre-order it now to get some instant Coldplay gratification.
They're playing Excel Energy Center on July 8th.
More...

10:40 a.m. Lupe Fiasco
He's playing Target Center along with Kanye on June 11th.
More..

10:35 a.m. Mudhoney
Their latest, The Lucky Ones was released earlier this week.
They're playing SP20 (Sub Pop's 20th anniversary concert.)
More...

10:30 a.m.The Submarines
You can still grab a tune from them on our Song Of The Day Podcast page.
Here's their take on "Little Boxes."
More...

Song Of The Day Info - Local Music - Ghost In The Water
Today on our Song Of The Day Podcast we're featuring the Minneapolis duo, Ghost In The Water with the tune "Cardinal Red" from their new album Teeth.
Hear from them again this Sunday night on The Local Show with Chris Roberts.
They're playing The Triple Rock with M83 next Wednesday.
Get more info here and/or here.

9:50 a.m. Someone Still Loves You Boris Yeltsin
They're playing 7th Street Entry May 24th.
More...

9:45 a.m. Local Music - Ed Ackerson
Polara's 5th studio album, Beekeeping is out now.

9:40 a.m. Andrew Bird
He'll be playing the SOLD OUT Rock The Garden along with Cloud Cult, The New Pornographers and Bon Iver.
More...

9:30 a.m. The National
A Skin A Night and The Virginia EP have been released.
They're playing The Xcel on June 5th with R.E.M. and Modest Mouse
More...

9:20 a.m. The Wedding Present
El Ray is in stores now.
Get their very first digital single here.

9:05 a.m. Bob Dylan
He'll be 67 tomorrow!
He'll be playing the New American Music Union Fest in Pittsburgh along with The Raconteurs and others.

Bob Dylan turning 67!

Posted at 9:36 AM on May 23, 2008 by Bill DeVille (35 Comments)

That fellow from Hibbing, Bob Dylan is turning 67 on Saturday. We thought it would be fun to play 67 songs over the course of this holiday weekend to celebrate...since it's a little difficult to eat cake through your radio speaker. So we'll be playing a Dylan song every hour until sometime on Monday. I was enlisted with the difficult task of compiling the list of tunes. Thanks to my colleagues for all the fantastic suggestions. Actually the task wasn't that difficult because of Dylan's body of work. His music touches on 5 decades w/plenty of highs and even a few lows. (Self Portrait, Street Legal)

If you think about it what other artists besides the Beatles & the Stones have a body of work as impressive and full of GREAT songs as Dylan?

I think my favorite Bob Dylan song is, "Mozambique" from his very underrated DESIRE album. I just love that gypsy fiddle and those Emmy Lou Harris harmonies! What it your favorite Dylan song?

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"My 3 Songs" for Friday

Posted at 1:50 PM on May 23, 2008 by Steve Seel

Ella Mitchell of St. Paul is turning 18 ... and she writes today:

"I was going with the growing-up-vibe, since I seem to be feeling oddly nostalgic lately. Even though it's my 18th birthday and I'm technically a legal adult now, I still find myself caught between those moments when I feel like it's my first day of kindergarten to people mistaking me for much older than I am. I'm starting to come to terms with getting older, but at the same time I'm trying not to completely grow up too quickly."

1) Belle & Sebastian, "Legal Man"
2) Of Montreal, "I Was Never Young"
3) Clap Your Hands Say Yeah, "Upon This Tidal Wave of Young Blood"

Happy birthday, Ella. I really have nothing to add -- you put it all so beautifully. Glad to play your set!

Guest DJ Set 5-23-08

Posted at 8:29 PM on May 23, 2008 by Mark Wheat (2 Comments)

Another local DJ Set from a fan of the friday night DJ Set!
Matty V is one of the True Punks Do Electro posse in Mankato. He did this set live for a radio show they do every Saturday at Midnight on KMSU.

1. Green Velvet "Flash"
2. Metamatic "Relax"
3. Elite Force "Return2mindfunk"
4. DJ Herbie & Jolly DJ "Put Your Hands Up"
5. Martijn van Velden & Lucien Foort "Bassification"
6. Unknown vs. Faithless "We Come One"
7. Pagano "My Religion"
8. Ferrante & Mariano DC "Peaktime"

Happy Memorial Day weekend!!

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The Stream 05/26/08

Posted at 8:48 AM on May 26, 2008 by Barb Abney (2 Comments)

Hall & Oates are back!

Scorsese leaves Bob Marley documentary project. Jonathan Demme to take over.

A guide to summer music fests.

Today In Music History:
1943 - Levon Helm (The Band) was born.
1948 - Stevie Nicks was born.
1949 - Mick Ronson was born.
1964 - Lenny Kravitz was born.
1969 - John & Yoko began their Montreal bed-in.
1984 - Deniece Williams (former back-up singer for Stevie Wonder) was at #1 with "Let's Hear It For The Boy."
1990 - David Bowie was sued by his ex wife for $56 million.
1994 - Michael Jackson and Lisa Marie Presley were married.
1997 - Bob Dylan was admitted to a hospital for chest pains. His summer tour was later cancelled.
2006 - Gwen Stefani and Gavin Rossdale's son, Kingston was born.

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Song Of The Day - Telly Tunes 05/26/08

Posted at 10:51 AM on May 26, 2008 by Barb Abney

Tunes On The Telly Tonight:
Black Mountain on Conan
Lupe Fiasco on Carson Daly
Estelle on Letterman
The B-52's on Leno

Song Of The Day Info - Be Your Own Pet
Today on our Song Of The Day Podcast we're featuring Be Your Own Pet with the tune "What's Your Damage" from their album Get Awkward.
They're playing The Fine Line Music Cafe on June 14th.
More...

"My 3 Songs" for Monday

Posted at 2:11 PM on May 26, 2008 by Steve Seel

Jennifer Reis offers no explanation today; just three choice tunes.

1) New Order, "Blue Monday"
2) Elbow, "Mirrorball"
3) Atmosphere, "Panic Attack"

Thanks Jennifer!

Best Dylan Cover?

Posted at 7:43 PM on May 26, 2008 by Mark Wheat (46 Comments)

As we prepared for the weekend long celebration of Bob Dylan, I realized that I knew many of his songs as covers before I heard his originals. Rod Stewart covers a ton including "Maggie's Farm" that I always thought was his song, as it seemed to fit Rod so well. Manfred Mann introduced me to "The Mighty Quinn," Eric Clapton to "Knockin' on Heaven's Door." I thought "All Along The Watchtower" was Jimi's, and the consensus seems to be that Bob himself was made famous by The Byrds cover. Remember he came along before it was 'normal' for the songwriter to sing their own songs, in popular culture at least. It's incredible that an artist who is so famous for his unique writing style and delivery, is so often covered so well!

After reconsidering his originals over the weekend, let's decide which Dylan cover is the best. Vote in our poll or if you think we've missed another that should be included please post your comments.

Deciding to do a poll meant narrowing it down, which was tough. Over the weekend I finally got to see "I'm Not There" and that made me realize again what a great song writer he is. The soundtrack contains many good covers from different artists able to do justice to his songs. In the movie the voice of Mason Jennings was prominantly featured and Cat Power's cover caught my ear and held it, as strongly as Kate Blanchett's performance held my eye, she was the highlight. It also seemed appropriate to include a local choice too and I've had many calls after playing Cloud Cult's Version of 'T Man' so I had to include that;

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The Stream 05/27/08

Posted at 8:49 AM on May 27, 2008 by Barb Abney

Radiohead "Best Of" to be released in one week.

Shirley Bassey recovering after emergency surgery.

The AV Club asks "Would you like a little humor with your music?"

Today In Music History:
1945 - Bruce Cockburn was born.
1957 - Buddy Holly and the Crickets released "That'll Be The Day."
1957 - Siouxsie Sioux (Siouxsie and the Banshees) was born.
1971 - Lisa "Left Eye" Lopes (TLC) was born.
1976 - RJD2 was born.
1977 - Declan McManus made his live debut as Elvis Costello.

Live Blogging 05/27/08

Posted at 9:10 AM on May 27, 2008 by Barb Abney

Tunes On The Telly Tonight:
The Roots on Letterman
Grand Archives on Craig Ferguson
Neil Diamond on Jimmy Kimmel

11:50 a.m. Spiritualized
Watch the video for "Soul On Fire."
Songs In A&E hit the shelves today.
More...

11:30 a.m. Local Music - Mason Jennings
You can still grab the tune "I Love You And Buddha Too" on our Song Of The Day Podcast page.
More...

11:25 a.m. R.E.M.
They're playing The Xcel next Thursday with Modest Mouse and The National.
More...

11:10 a.m. Billy Bragg
He's playing The Cedar Cultural Center on June 13th.
More...

10:50 a.m. My Morning Jacket
Evil Urges is due in stores next week.
Catch them on SNL this weekend.
They're playing The Orpheum on October 2nd.
More...

10:35 a.m. Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
Dig, Lazarus, Dig!!! has been nominated for Best Album in Mojo Honours 2008.
The US tour is slated for September.
More...

10:15 a.m. Andrew Bird
He'll be playing the SOLD OUT Rock The Garden along with Cloud Cult, The New Pornographers and Bon Iver.
More...

Song Of The Day Info - Mudhoney
Today on our Song Of The Day Podcast we're featuring Mudhoney with the tune "I'm Now" from their album Lucky Ones.
They're playing SP20 (Sub Pop's 20th anniversary concert.)
More...

9:40 a.m. Death Cab For Cutie
They're playing The Orpheum on June 2nd.
More...

9:20 a.m. Local Music - Chris Koza
The Dark Delirious Morning is the new record.
The CD release show is Saturday, June 7th at First Avenue with This World Fair, These Modern Socks, and The Parlour Suite.
More...

9:00 a.m. Sharon Jones & The Dap Kings
They're playing for free at The State Fair in August.
More...

The Stream 05/28/08

Posted at 9:00 AM on May 28, 2008 by Barb Abney

There's a new Doors documentary in the works.

Details on Sigur Ros' new album and US tour dates. Grab the first single here.

She & Him announce more dates (including a First Ave. gig in August.)

Listen to Beck's new tune "Chemtrails" here.

Today In Music History:
1944 - Gladys Knight was born.
1945 - John Fogerty was born.
1949 - Wendy O. Williams (The Plasmatics) was born.
1962 - Roland Gift (Fine Young Cannibals) was born.
1970 - Jimi Goodwin (Sub Sub, Doves) was born.
1977 - Sting, Stewart Copeland and Andy Summers played together for the first time.
1983 - The US Festival '83 began in California with The Clash, U2, David Bowie, The Pretenders, Van Halen, Stray Cats, Men At Work, Judas Priest, Ozzy Osbourne and others.
1988 - Steven Tyler married Teresa Barrick.
1996 - Dave Gahan (Depeche Mode) was rushed to the hospital after a drug overdose.

Live Blogging 05/28/08

Posted at 9:06 AM on May 28, 2008 by Barb Abney

11:50 a.m. Ladytron
Velocifero will be released on June 3rd.
Pre-order it here.
More...

11:25 a.m. Death Cab For Cutie
They're playing The Orpheum on June 2nd.
More...

11:15 a.m. Local Music - Chris Koza
The Dark Delirious Morning is the new record.
The CD release show is Saturday, June 7th at First Avenue with This World Fair, These Modern Socks, and The Parlour Suite.
More...

10:55 a.m. Elvis Costello
He's out on the road with The Police.
Momofuku was one of the albums we reviewed on the most recent installment of Musicheads.
More...

10:35 a.m. Local Music - Aviette
Their CD release show for The Way We Met is June 28th at The Triple Rock with Kid Dakota, The Alarmists and The Glad Version.
More...

Song Of The Day Info - The M's
Today on our Song Of The Day Podcast we're featuring The M's with the tune "Big Sound" from their album RealCloseOnes which will be released on June 3rd.
They're playing 400 Bar on June 6th.
More...

9:55 a.m. The Black Angels
Their new record Directions To See A Ghost is in stores now.
They're playing The Turf Club on June 18th with The Warlocks.
More...

9:35 a.m. Coldplay
Viva La Vida Or Death And All His Friends will be released on June 17th.
Here's an article where they talk about where the album's title came from.
Pre-order it now to get some instant Coldplay gratification.
They're playing Excel Energy Center on July 8th.
More...

9:25 a.m. Local Music - Low (related)
Alan's other project, Retribution Gospel Choir are
playing The Varsity on June 6th along with Sun Kil Moon.
More...

9:15 a.m. The Hold Steady
Their new album Stay Positive will be released on July 15th.
They're playing First Avenue on July 22nd.
They're also playing The P-4K fest.
More...

9:05 a.m. Al Green
Lay It Down hit the shelves yesterday.
More...

"My 3 Songs" for Wednesday

Posted at 2:30 PM on May 28, 2008 by Steve Seel (1 Comments)

Here's one that speaks for itself, from Josh Dix.

1) Charlie Parr, "Cheap Wine"
2) Jeff Buckley, "Lilac Wine"
3) Amy Winehouse, "Rehab"

I suppose you could say that set moves from darker to lighter (that is, if you discount the underlying pathos that simply is Amy Winehouse herself). Well done, Josh!

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The Stream 05/29/08

Posted at 9:00 AM on May 29, 2008 by Barb Abney

Spinal Tap reveal how Stonehenge was formed.

Muse working on new material.

The Wrens, Aimee Mann and others on forthcoming Net Neutrality compilation.

Today In Music History:
1942 - Bing Crosby recorded Irving Berlin's "White Christmas."
1945 - Gary Brooker (Procol Harum) was born.
1967 - Noel Gallagher (Oasis) was born.
1975 - Melanie Brown (Scary Spice) was born.
1977 - Warsaw (who later became Joy Division) made their live debut.
1997 - Jeff Buckley disappeared after taking a swim in the Mississippi River.

Live Blogging 05/29/08

Posted at 9:15 AM on May 29, 2008 by Barb Abney

11:40 a.m. Doomtree
They're playing Grand Old Days in St. Paul this weekend.
More...

11:20 a.m. Local Music - Cloud Cult
They're playing the SOLD OUT Rock The Garden along with The New Pornographers, Andrew Bird and Bon Iver
More...

11:10 a.m. Mates Of State
Re-Arrange-Us was one of the albums we reviewed on the most recent installment of Musicheads.
More...

10:15 a.m. Feist
She's playing the Ottawa Blues Fest.

10:10 a.m. Built To Spill
They're kicking off their "Perfect tour" in September (they'll be playing Perfect From Now On in it's entirety at each show.)

Song Of The Day Info - The Wedding Present
Today on our Song Of The Day Podcast we're featuring The Wedding Present with the tune "Spider-Man On Hollywood" from their album El Ray which is in stores now.
More...

9:50 a.m. Local Music - Haley Bonar
Her new record Big Star will be released on June 10th.
The Release show is June 12th at The Varsity Theater.
You can catch my interview with Haley, airing on The Current on the 12th.
She's also playing at The Cedar Cultural Center along with Hayden.
More...

9:35 a.m. The Postal Service (related)
Death Cab For Cutie are playing The Orpheum on June 2nd.
More...

9:15 a.m. Alejandro Escovedo
His new album, Real Animal will be released on June 24th.
More...

9:10 a.m. The Police
The Police recently announced their final concert date.
More...

The Stream 05/30/08

Posted at 9:00 AM on May 30, 2008 by Barb Abney

Patti Smith: Dream Of Life documentary will get wide release in theaters this fall and will be released on DVD next year.

Mogwai have worked with Roky Erickson on their new Batcat EP.

Win some hipster clothing, These New Puritans tix and an iPod.

Today In Music History:
1944 - Lenny Davidson (Dave Clark Five) was born.
1955 - Nicky 'Topper' Headon (The Clash) was born.
1960 - Stephen Duffy (Duran Duran) was born.
1964 - Tom Morello was born.
1974 - Cee-Lo Green was born.
1980 - Carl Radle (Derek and the Dominoes) died of kidney failure.
1987 - David Bowie kicked off his Glass Spider tour.
1992 - Paul Simon married Edie Brickell.
2005 - Coldplay's X&Y album was illegally leaked to the internet.

"My 3 Songs" for Thursday

Posted at 2:05 PM on May 29, 2008 by Steve Seel

Shawn Rice might take you back to your youth today: " 'By our powers combined, I AM CAPTAIN ... WONDERFUL THREE SONG SET!' Captain Planet has his three Rs, and I have my 3 songs."

1) Modest Mouse, "Lounge (Closing Time)"
2) The Clash, "Rudie Can't Fail"
3) The Velvet Underground, "What Goes On"

You have the power too, you know.

Live Blogging 05/30/08

Posted at 9:06 AM on May 30, 2008 by Barb Abney

11:35 a.m. Elvis Costello
He's out on the road with The Police.
Momofuku was one of the albums we reviewed on the most recent installment of Musicheads.
More...

11:30 a.m. Albert Hammond Jr.
Look for his new album soon.

11:20 a.m. Styrofoam
A Thousand Words will be released on June 10th.
They'll be playing The Entry along with Broken Spindles on June 10th.
Pitchfork's scoop on the record/tour.
More...

10:45 a.m. Supergrass
They'll be kicking off their North American tour in July.
Diamond Hoo Ha is The Current's CD Of The Week.
Get your own copy when you support us online.
More...

10:30 a.m. James McMurtry
Just Us Kids is in stores now.
More...

10:15 a.m. The Cure
"The Only One" is the latest single.
More...

Song Of The Day Info - Local Music - Malachi Constant
Today on our Song Of The Day Podcast we're featuring Malachi Constant with the tune "Coquette on Horse" from their album A Current Affair.
Hear from them again this Sunday evening on The Local Show with Chris Roberts. They're playing Eclipse Records AND Modern Radio's 9th anniversary gig at The Turf Club tomorrow.
More...

9:50 a.m.The Wedding Present
You can still grab the tune "Spider-Man On Hollywood" on our Song Of The Day Podcast page
Their album El Ray is in stores now.
More...

9:35 a.m. The Hold Steady
Their new album Stay Positive will be released on July 15th.
They're playing First Avenue on July 22nd.
They're also playing The Pitchfork Music Fest.
More...

9:25 a.m. Elbow
Check out their recent in-studio interview/performance.
They're looking for your tour memories and for some back up singers for an upcoming festival gig.
More...

9:15 a.m. Old 97's
Their new album, Blame it On Gravity was released earlier this month.
Rolling Stone gives it 4.5 stars.
They're playing First Avenue next Wednesday.
More...

9:10 a.m. R.E.M.
They're playing The Xcel next Thursday with Modest Mouse and The National.
More...

9:05 a.m. Smoosh
They've got some upcoming dates with Dresden Dolls.
More...

"My 3 Songs" for Friday

Posted at 1:37 PM on May 30, 2008 by Steve Seel

Everybody has been digging the springtime sunshine, as we've seen in a number of recent sets ... but since you can't have that all the time during the spring months (like today, for example), sometimes ya just gotta go with what the weather gives you. So Aleah Kraft writes today, "On a cloudy day like this you can't go wrong with moody vocals and industrial beats. It makes me happy."

1) Massive Attack, "Angel"
2) MGMT, "Kids"
3) The Presets, "My People"

Thanks Aleah!

Guest DJ Set 5-30-08

Posted at 9:40 PM on May 30, 2008 by Mark Wheat (3 Comments)

OM Records are a quality destination if you want a little sunny house music, so what better way to TRY to start our summer off here with their recent compilation OM:MIAMI 08 put together in honour of the big electronic music festival that happens in the city every year. It contains most of the upcoming stars of the label including one of our own, Chuck Love who's playing in the home of OM, San Fran tomorrow night, at Temple. Check the Events page, they have DJ's touring all over the country, including a new star of theirs Raashan Ahmad who will be at The Dinkytowner in Mpls on Thursday, June 5th.

The whole compilation is available on CD and here's the excerpt that we played tonight;

Chuck Love - Moonlight (Miami Version)
Fred Everything feat. Lisa Shaw - Here I Am (SF Vocal)
Home & Garden - In & Out (JT Donaldson Dub Re-Edit)
Chubby Dubs - Drifting Away (Nacho Marco Remix)
Florian Kruse - In My Scope
Aaron Sontag & Nica Brooke - Inner Peace(Cates&dpL Growlin Tech Dub)

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