Listen to The Weeknd's "Echoes of Silence"

Christmas is quickly approaching (just two days away!) and Abel Tesfaye of the sexy R&B phenom The Weeknd was kind enough to share the third installment of his mixtapes, Echoes of Silence.  If you were a fan of his previous self-releases, you will definitely love his newest collection of sex/drug induced tracks. Echoes of Silence opens with a cover of Michael Jackson’s “Dirty Diana,”  an interesting choice, which is not only an incredible cover, but one of his most catchy to date. Track after track, you can hear him evolve while still remaining genuine to his original sound. So happy holidays everyone, visit The Weeknd's official site and grab yourself a free download of his mixtape!

Neon Hitch: "Gucci Gucci, Fendi Fendi, Prada"

When I think of Gucci, I don't primarily think of detailed handbags and posh designer clothes. I think of Kreayshawn's "Gucci Gucci" with its infectious chorus that has me dancing around my house (mostly just isolated shoulder movements).

However, more recently, I've been found parading around my home singing Neon Hitch's remake of the track. She slowed it down, and cut out half of the original song really...but I find it overly appealing. Enjoy!

Listen to This: The Black Keys - Lonely Boy

As if The Black Keys weren't awesome enough, they hired this gentleman to lip-synch to one of their incredibly catchy new tracks "Lonely Boy," off their upcoming record El Camino, out December 6th. And boy can this guy dance!

Courtney Love Flips Out Onstage

Extra! Extra! Courtney Love is still crazy!

Last Sunday night at the SWU Festival in Brazil, the Hole frontwoman morphed into the ultimate drama queen when she noticed a fan in the crowd holding up a photograph of Kurt Cobain. She got more and more angry, blurting out insults to the fan specifically and then The Foo Fighters... Her and her posse leave the stage only to return with more insults.

She later flashed the audience...

My question is: why would anyone pay to see her live?

Watch Friendly Fires' "Hurting"

What can Ed of Friendly Fires still do when he has an electronic cube for a head and can't be touched by the stretchy love of his life? Dance his ass off. Watch below!



Also, I still want Ed's shirt, for those of you who have seen him wear it before. If anyone could tell me where I can grab one for myself, I'd be forever in your debt. Seriously.

Listen to This: Niki & The Dove - The Drummer

Last February I discovered Niki and the Dove, the Swedish electronic pop act that blew me away with a single track (“DJ, Ease My Mind”–do yourself a favour and check it out). As it was at beginning of the year, they continue to be a mysterious group to follow online, despite having gained some recognition for their gorgeous synth-heavy numbers. Still no sign of a full album, but they have released The Drummer EP, which includes the stunning and addicting masterpiece “The Drummer.” With an EP out and proof they've finally been touring (opening for UK pop duo Hurts), perhaps it won't be too much longer until a record is in the works.

Interesting Fact: Doing CPR to “Stayin' Alive” is Dangerous

Remember being in high school and having to learn CPR in gym class? Pressing your palms against a smelly, plastic dummy and pretending to blow air into its rubbery mouth? We were taught that in emergency situations where someone was choking, we could resuscitate them back to life with chest compressions and mouth-to-mouth —still a fact, continue to do so if someone is choking.

It was commonly said that doctors recommended performing CPR to the tempo of the Bee Gees' disco hit “Stayin' Alive,” as the tempo of the song is 103 beats per minute. Not to mention how funny and ironic it is to save someone to a tune with that title. However, a study published in the Emergency Medicine Journal suggests this is actually a very dangerous idea. Why? Turns out that those conducting CPR to the track were doing it too slowly and not compressing deep enough.

So there you have it. Don't perform CPR to “Stayin' Alive.” You could kill someone.

Drake's “Take Care” Billboard

If you live in Toronto and happen to drive down the Gardener Expressway, look out for this billboard promoting the November 15th release of Drake's sophomore record, Take Care.

Thanks to a pile of paperwork which involve clearing sample tracks, the album's unveiling had been pushed back from his original birthday release on October 24. But thankfully, November 15th isn't too far in the distant future that we should all be able to hold off for just a couple more weeks. Earlier this month, Drake shared that the album is to include 19 songs (17 on the physical edition and 2 on bonus) which he created in his hometown of Toronto. Here's hoping these tracks are reminiscent of his So Far Gone days...

Listen to This: Foster the People's Houdini (RAC Remix)

I'm slowly easing off the incredible high I felt seeing Foster The People live for the first time a couple weeks ago. Seriously, they were amazing. My favourite part of the night? There were several, but one would be when the Cali trio ended their set with The Highweights remix of "Pumped Up Kicks." It brought a smile to my face for days just thinking about it. The energy was truly unbelievable.

Anyway, I've come across this awesome remix of "Houdini," which is just as addicting as the original and overly satisfying. Listen below. Enjoy!


Foster the People - Houdini (RAC Mix)
 
P.S. Visit RAC's website to hear a full stream of their mixes. Most you can download for free. All will leave you dancing. Check it out!

Florence + The Machine to Release "Ceremonials"

Last month is was revealed that Florence + The Machine will be releasing Ceremonials, their follow-up to the incredible Lungs, the record that blew everyone's mind, including my own. I cannot even explain how excited I am for the release of this album, which is out in the UK on October 31st and in North America shortly after. I have heard two cuts off the LP, and please excuse my fan-girling, but I'm already in love--as I knew I would be. Florence and co. have been one of the most musically interesting acts on the scene as of late, overwhelming us all with their powerful sound and Miss Welch's stunning vocals. While I'm sure many more people are aware of the group after the success of Lungs, inclusion in the Twilight Series and performances on award shows, I have a strong feeling Ceremonials will take them even further.

Florence + The Machine - "Shake It Out"


Track List
01. Only If for Night
02. Shake It Out
03. What the Water Gave Me
04. Never Let Me Go
05. Breaking Down
06. Lover to Lover
07. No Light, No Light
08. Seven Devils
09. Heartlines
10. Spectrum
11. All This and Heaven Too
12. Leave My Body

Drake Drops Take Care Artwork

Drake recently took to his blog, October's Very Own to share the cover art for his sophomore record, Take Care. A more mature-looking Drake sits solemnly surrounded by a golden chalice, owl and candle stick. Not sure what that means, but I'm sure he has his reasons. Out October 24, Take Care is one of my most anticipated albums of the year. I'm looking forward to seeing what Drizzy brings to the table after Thank Me Later, his over-hyped debut, failed to excite just about everyone. 

He has been self-releasing song after song and it's not gaurenteed what we can find on the album just yet, but here's hoping "Trust Issues" makes the cut.


Drake - "Trust Issues"

I have not fallen off the face of the Earth.

So I have basically been living at work thanks to the Toronto International Film Festival. Super long days and the consequential exhaustion that followed caused my poor little blog to take a back seat while I tried so very hard to take advantage of the little time I had at home to sleep. Thankfully, TIFF is over and I can have my life back. Not to mention, I can get back to posting.

This passed weekend, Radiohead was featured as the musical guest on the season premiere of SNL. It was their first time appearing on the show since 2000, and did a great job performing the King Of Limbs single “Lotus Flower” and the unreleased “Staircase.” I always feel like it is such a challenge for artists on the SNL stage; the sound is always off-kilter just a tad, no matter how amazing the performer may be. No excuses for Ashlee Simpson though, that was just a mess. Unfortunately, Radiohead didn't appear in any sketches—it would have been funny to see them collaborate with The Lonely Island. But I guess no one really expected them to in the first place. Watch the clips of their performances below....before NBC finds out and removes them.

Beyonce Pregnant With Super Child!

By now it's no secret that Beyonce is preggers. At the MTV Music Video Awards on Sunday night, the R&B diva announced that her and husband Jay-Z were expecting a little one. After performing "Love On Top," she unbuttoned her shimmery jacket and flaunted her baby bump for the world to see. The Huffington Post confirmed that she is five months along. So just another four months until the super child is born! Celebrities have babies all the time, but this is an interesting case. Beyonce and Jay-Z have been a high profile superstar couple since 2002 and were even regarded as one of the most powerful couples of our generation (according to TIME Magazine anyway...). Not to mention that they are both incredibly talented. I'm excited to see how this baby's future will pan out (I'm not the only one; talk about pressure!). If anything, we know they'll be having one happy child, the almighty
Jigga Man will see to that.

In other news, I wish I was this baby.

Watch The Strokes Perform with Pulp's Jarvis Cocker

This passed weekend at England's Reading Music Festival, New York indie punks invited Pulp's Jarvis Cocker on stage to perform a cover of The Cars' hit "Just What I Needed." Watch the clip below!



P.S. If anyone could explain why The Strokes aren't headlining a full tour to support Angles, please inform me. I understand doing festival shows is fun and all, but if they don't make their way to Toronto soon, I'm going to have to get them down here myself. That is all.

Listen to New Red Hot Chili Peppers; "Monarchy of Roses"

Red Hot Chili Peppers are back with another cut off their next album I'm With You, out August 30. The crazy Californians debuted "Monarchy of Roses," an upbeat number with a funky bass line, catchy chorus and a wee bit of some steel drum pan action. Head over to KROQ to have yourself a listen. 

Lady Gaga's Strange New Video; "Yoü And I"

When Lady Gaga released her video for "Edge of Glory," everyone was a little perplexed as to how tame the clip was. Yes, she may have been wearing a skimpy outfit and heavy make-up, but there was nothing noticeably strange that made people stop and think: "WTF?" Well for her next video release off Born This Way, she did just that. The clip for "Yoü And I," (my least favourite Gaga song of all time--I'm sure many feel the same), Mother Monster becomes her lover's freakish science experiment and ups the ante on all things bizarre. I feel like I should be a little more descriptive, but really, you just need to see for yourself. Enjoy...?

Kanye & Jay-Z; "Otis"

Sorry blog, I have not abandoned you! I will get back to my regular postings shortly, promise. In the mean time, enjoy the Spike Jonze-directed clip for Jay-Z and Kanye's "Otis." It's over the top and flashy, what else could we expect? Enjoy!

Alexisonfire Call it Quits

 

Sad news broke today; Canadian screamo rockers Alexisonfire have announced their breakup. It's been 10 years since the five-piece began their musical journey together, fusing George Pettit's righteous screams with Dallas Green's ear-melting serenades and combining them atop ridiculously intense guitar work and ear-pummeling drum beats. Unfortunately, it has come to an end. According to a note posted on the band's website, George wrote that after the tour promoting their fourth album, Old Crows/Young Cardinals, Dallas informed the group of his intentions to leave and focus on his solo-project, City & Colour. Soon after, guitarist Wade McNeil was asked to pursue another band, which he chose to do. Then there were three, and instead of altering the Alexis legacy, they chose to preserve it.

I never wanted to admit it, but I did see it coming. Screamo is no longer in its prime like it once was when they first started. While the quality of their music was always incredible, their most recent release showed a great maturity that I feel a lot of fans could not connect with. It has also been apparent that all members of the band have focused on other projects, even slightly and maybe veered away from Alexisonfire for too long a time that returning to it wasn't as easy as it was in the past.

As a long time fan, I'm really bothered by this news. I began listening to Alexis soon after they debuted their self-titled disc. I was almost 14 years old at the time and as I grew up, their records and EP's played as a soundtrack to my life. Wow, that sounds really dramatic, but for the most part, they were really all I listened to for long periods of time. I devoted so much of my time reading about them, checking out their tour photos, watching their interviews and talking with other fans in Alexis-related forums. Not to mention going to see them live countless times. I remember seeing them in smaller venues and as their popularity continued to grow, the venues got bigger and bigger. It always brings a smile to my face when I reminisce about going to their shows with my best friends, waiting for what felt like an eternity in a sweaty mosh pit for the boys to take the stage and then blow my mind as they performed one song better then the next. Alexisonfire will always be a band I will associate with my adolescent and teenage years; 14 concerts, 10 band-t's, 5 posters, 4 records and 2 meetings and a sweater later, they will always be one of my all time favourites.

R.I.P Alexisonfire. You will always be THEONLYBANDEVER.

The Kooks' "Junk of the Heart" + Best Coast's “Our Deal”

Please accept an apology for my lack of posts as of late. Life has been a little crazy, not to mention summer has invited camping-filled weekends into my life, which of course eats up any free time I might get. Anyway, enough about me. More about...

The Kooks! The Brits next record, Junk of the Heart, will be out September 13. Its fist single, the album's title track, is another pop-rock gem that sounds very Kooksy... or Kooks-esque? It sounds like The Kooks and what we'd expect from them. It's sweet, and as the title suggests, it's very happy. Have a listen below:

The Kooks - Junk of the Heart (Happy)

Sneak previews of Best Coast's latest video have been circling about online, but finally, the Drew Barrymore directed piece is available for your viewing pleasure. The clip follows two gangs; the “Day Trotters” and the “Night Creepers” in their fight for superiority in the streets of L.A, while a forbidden love complicates things. “Our Deal” off Best Coast's debut plays the soundtrack. Plenty of young actors make an appearance; Chloe Moretz, Tyler Posey Donald Glover, Miranda Cosgrove and Shailene Woodley. Watch below!  


Best Coast Our Deal Official Music Video by Flixgr

I'm Addicted: Foster The People's “Helena Beat”

Happy 1^st of August everyone! I hope everyone is enjoying the last bit of their long weekend and hopefully got a chance to soak up the sun. I finally got my hands on Foster The People's debut album Torches and I'm currently working through it. Problem is, it's been difficult for me to get passed the first track because I am so completely addicted to it. I'll give it a couple of days, but right now, all I want to hear is “Helena Beat.” Enjoy!

Listen to These Covers: Friendly Fires + Washed Out + Ryan Adams + Robyn

My favourite British trio, Friendly Fires, recorded a cover of Lady Gaga's summer anthem “Edge of Glory” for BBC Radio 1. They don't necessarily fill out the track like Gaga does, but they do a great job in making it sound more like a Friendly Fires song. Watch them perform it below.

Chillwave top dog, Washed Out, recently recorded a cover of Chris Issak's sexy slow jam, “Wicked Game.” He updated it with a slight synthy twist and some female backup vocals. I find it almost as addictive as the original.

Washed Out: "Wicked Game" (Chris Isaak Original)


Next up: Ryan Adams' cover of Vampire Weekend's “A-Punk.” This one I found particularly interesting, not only because the original is one of my favourite songs (also my ringtone, so I hear it numerous times a day), but mostly because I never thought I would come across a cover of it by alternative crooner Ryan Adams. It's sweet and he completely makes it his own. He also covered “Mansard Roof” and “Oxford Comma.”



Robyn, everyone's beloved Swedish electropop sensation, stopped by the Radio 1 Live Lounge to perform her latest single “Call Your Girlfriend,” as well as a cover of Coldplay's most recent radioplay, “Every Tear Drop Is A Waterfall.” It's a downtempo good time that sounds like a Robyn song, listen below!

Robyn: "Every Tear Drop Is A Waterfall" (Coldplay Original)

R.I.P Amy Whinehouse

Word of Amy Whinehouse's death has spread like wildfire. If you don't already know, the British soul singer was found dead in her Camden Square apartment in London yesterday at about 4 p.m. The exact cause of death is still unknown, however, it was general knowledge that she had been struggling with drug and alcohol addiction for many years. NME is currently reporting that an      ecstasy overdose is to blame.

She had recently cancelled a comeback tour after a disastrous performance in Belgrade, Serbia on June 18, where, according to Spin, she starred silently at her mic through a couple songs, mumbled lyrics and was loudly booed by fans. This does not sound like someone who has conquered her demons, but rather someone who is continuing on a downward spiral.

Knowing she had such an addiction, why weren't more steps taken to keep her bad habits from taking her life? Clearly her stints in and out of rehab were not doing their job in promoting a healthier form of living. I understand she was an addict, but she was not a lost cause. It's sad to see someone with so much talent, someone who could have went on to make more great music, die so young.

Like other great musicians such as Kurt Cobain, Jim Morrison, Jimi Hendrix and Janis Joplin, Winehouse died at the age of 27.

Download New M83, “Midnight City”

French electronic act M83 have returned with new “sax-y” track “Midnight City.” The synth-heavy number features Anthony Gonzalez's willowy vocals and roaring percussion, as well as a worthy saxophone outro. It's simply gorgeous. I may be completely biased as a longtime fan, but the song really is beautiful. A new album, Hurry Up, We're Dreaming is slated for release this coming October. Download the track via soundcloud below.

Midnight City by M83

Watch New Beastie Boys Action Figure Music Video + "Watch The Throne" Details

The Beastie Boys are back with another must-see music video! The New York rap trio teamed up with director Spike Jonze to create The Continuingly Ill Adventures of the Beastie Boys to accompany the track “Don't Play No Game That I Can't Win” featuring guest vocals by Santigold. The clip is ridiculous, yet hilarious and overly entertaining. It follows action figure replicas of the Beasties and Santi as they are ambushed at a live concert by an “Anti-Beastie Boys” military attack. A chase then ensues through the snow, then the ocean... and well you just got to see it for yourself. Watch the full length version of the clip below!

Finally, we have some details about Jay-Z and Kanye West's highly anticipated collaborative record, Watch The Throne. According to Billboard.com, the album will be available for download August 1 and dropped in stores on August 5. It was also announced that LMFAO, La Roux, Kid Cudi, Seal and Mr. Hudson as well as Beyoncé and Frank Ocean will lend their vocals on the album, while The Neptunes, RZA, Q-Tip, Swizz Beatz, Lex Luger, No I.D were reported to have worked on the tracks. Sounds interesting and left me with a sense of relief. The colloboration may be just as epic as their making it out to be...

Listen to New Red Hot Chili Peppers + Washed Out

It's been five years since we have heard anything new from California's Red Hot Chili Peppers. However, their hiatus has come to an end, and on August 30, they will drop their 10th record I'm With You. The first single off said album is “The Adventures of Rain Dance Maggie,” a funky alternative number that features new guitarist Josh Klinghoffer, John Frusciante's official replacement. After a few listens, I can hear the track's poppy appeal, but I don't feel completely satisfied. After five years, I was hoping for something that sounded a little more like their Californication days. Maybe it's because I'm still slightly confused/disturbed with their choice to include “Hump de Bump” on 2006's Stadium Arcadium. Yet, at the end of the day, cowbell makes everything better. More cowbell!

Red Hot Chili Peppers: "The Adventures of Rain Dance Maggie"

In other news, I've been hearing such good things about chillwave solo act Washed Out. So I looked it up for myself and can confirm that all the positive acclaim is true. Since 2009, Georgia's Ernest Greene has been recording music in his self-created bedroom studio and recently teamed up with producer Ben Allen (the man behind Animal Collective's Merriweather Post Pavilion). The two crafted Washed Out's dreamy debut Within And Without which may very well be the sexiest record of the year. I'm loving “Amor Fati” and “You And I.” Listen below!

Washed Out: "You And I"


Washed Out: "Amor Fati"

Listen to New CSS, “Hits Me Like A Rock”

Happy Saturday! Celebrate this gorgeous sunny day with the first single off CSS's upcoming album, La Liberación, out August 29. “Hits Me Like A Rock” is a synthy good time featuring Primal Scream's Bobby Gillespie. Listen below!

CSS: "Hits Me Like A Rock" 

Listen to New Mumford & Sons, “Home”

If you are a fan of indie folk Brits Mumford & Sons and have been dying for new material, you'll enjoy the clip below. Marcus Mumford and company have been playing one of their new songs during some of their gigs as of late and have recorded a live version of it at KBCO, a radio station based in Colorado. The track, tentatively-titled “Home,” is a romantic serenade to a lover far away. It comprises the band's signature sound; delicate guitar and banjo tied around Marcus Mumford's sincerely sung vocals. Listen below.

 

Madge in the Studio + Jay-Z & Kanye's “Watch The Throne”

Madonna, pop's ultimate diva, is back in the studio working on her 12^th album, according to a tweet by her manager Guy Oseary. Details about her return are minimal, but it's been rumoured that A-Trak and David Guetta will be featured on the record. With these collaborations, it could mean that it would have more of an electronic/house vibe, which is a relief, because her stint in urban pop with 2008's Hard Candy was a little awkward.

The collaborative record by hip hop giants Jay-Z and Kanye West has been hyped about for some time, but details surrounding the album have been kept hush-hush. However there is now some speculation that Watch the Throne will be released on August 2 according to the receipts of pre-orders made by fans this week. Even the track-listing is a mystery. It's been said that the album will feature songs produced by Swizz Beatz, No ID and Lex Luger and guest vocals by Bruno Mars and Beyoncé. I'm enjoying the regal-looking cover art. Givenchy creative director Riccardo Tisci was hired to design it, probably Kanye's doing. I'm a little anxious to hear the sound of this record, but if “H.A.M” is any indication, my excitement will be short-lived.

Check It Out: Austra

New music alert: If you haven't already heard of Austra, become acquainted with them as soon as humanly possible. The Toronto-based trio, comprised of frontwoman/vocalist/songwriter Katie Stelmanis, drummer Maya Postepski and bassist Dorian Wolf, are responsible for the gothy, shimmery electro-pop that has drilled its way into my head. Their dark and danceable beats, partnered with Stelmanis' astounding, head-turning vibrato (she once pursued a career in opera) are simply amazing and certainly worth looking into. Their debut album, Feel It Break, is out now! Visit their MySpace for a free download of “Beat And The Pulse,” which you can listen to below.

Austra: "Beat And The Pulse" 

JT Buys MySpace + Chris Brown Remixes “Marvin's Room”

It was announced yesterday that former N*Sync curly-haired crooner, Justin Timberlake bought MySpace for $35 million. He and advertising agency Specific Media plan to refocus the website on entertainment and want "a place where fans can go to interact with their favorite entertainers, listen to music, watch videos, share and discover cool stuff." Read more about it here. Perhaps his role in The Social Network influenced him to buy the social network (HA!).

There have been tons of people remixing Drake's brooding track “Marvin's Room.” Chris Brown is one of the latest to join the pack. What he did however was take on the perspective of the man the girl is currently with. Interesting spin on the song, even though all he's really doing is throwing it in Drake's face that said girl is better off with him. Original is still better. Listen below.

Chris Brown: "Marvin's Room"

And for those of you living in The Great White North (which actually isn't white and covered in snow because it's summer!): HAPPY CANADA DAY! Enjoy the sunshine, the fireworks and party hard!

Watch Drake's New Video & Listen To New Coldplay + Arcade Fire's Scenes From the Suburbs

Let me start off with an apology for my lack of posts in the last few days; sorry!

Drake posted a video for “Marvin's Room” on his October's Very Own blog yesterday. In the clip, we see the hip hop crooner drowning his sorrows to ease the pain of unrequited love. Watch below.

In addition to “Every Teardrop Is A Waterfall,” Coldplay have debuted two new tracks to be included on their still-untitled album to be released this fall. I was surprised with the sound of these songs. Where “Every Teardrop” is quite reminiscent of their previous work, “Major Minus” and “Moving To Mars” seem to take the Brits in a new direction. “Major Minus” has a echo effect layered over some fuzzy guitar, while “Moving To Mars” starts with Chris Martin singing in super low baritone over the piano, it then transforms with synths and twinkling guitar work. Listen below.

Coldplay: "Major Minus"


Coldplay: "Moving To Mars"

The Suburbs, Arcade Fire's Grammy winning record, tells the story of a dystopian neighbourhood, home to people who have become heartless and hopeless. In the video for the album's title track we saw teenagers bike riding through the streets while some sort of military attack was underway. The clip played as a trailer to a short film the band promised fans would be released in the near future. Well the Spike Jonze directed piece is finally available for your viewing pleasure. Scenes From the Suburbs is a 30-minute mini-movie which debuted at the Berlin International Film Festival in February. You should be able to watch it here, but if you live in the U.S, Canada or Germany, some strange restrictions apply. Do not Fear! The film will be on the band's deluxe edition of The Suburbs hitting stores in August, or if you patiently wait, I'm sure someone will have it floating about online shortly. The deluxe edition will feature two new tracks: “Culture War” and “Speaking in Tongues” featuring David Byrne.

Check It Out: SBTRKT

I recently came across SBTRKT (pronounced Subtract) while listening to random songs on The Hype Machine. I'm usually not the biggest fan of dubstep, but this seems a little different somehow and better then a lot of the glorified dubstep that's hitting the mainstream right now (*cough*James Blake*cough*). According to last.fm, SBTRKT is an anonymous producer based in London, England. Wanting his music to speak for itself, he wears a mask while performing live, therefore no one really knows who he is. His sound is purely dubstep; synth-heavy electronic beats with layers of smooth vocals. You can listen to his entire album below. I'm diggin' “Wildfire,” “Hold On” and “Something Goes Right.” The self-titled debut will be released on July 28. Enjoy!
 

Jeff Buckley On Screen + New Radiohead Track!

Remember months ago when rumours were swirling that scruffy-haired Robert Pattinson was begging to play the role of Jeff Buckley in a biopic of the late singer's life? Well unfortunately for him, it's been announced that Gossip Girl star Penn Badgley has been given the role in Greetings from Tim Buckley. It's not exactly a biopic, but rather a film about the events leading up to the 1991 tribute concert for his late father Tim Buckley. I can see why they chose him; he's got the look and the angsty attitude. I wonder if he can sing, or would that even matter?

However, there's word that a second film based on Buckley is also in the works. The as-yet untitled film directed by Orian Williams and Michelle Sy seems to be a biopic and seems to have everything set, except for a star. Maybe Pattinson will have better luck with this one...

In other news, Radiohead have posted a new song to their YouTube channel. “Staircase” is a five-minute electronic jam that sounds like it fell right off their most recent release, The King of Limbs. It carries the same groovy vibe throughout. The accompanying video performance will be featured on From the Basement, their BBC broadcast premiering July 1. Watch the clip below!

Album Review: Cults - Cults

Cults – Cults

8/10

Cults are a perfect example of a buzz band. They released a few songs on a simple website and had the blogsphere in a dizzy spell. They also picked an unsearchable name and kept details of their existence to a minimum, intriguing listener after listener. Yet what sets them apart from most buzz bands is their potential to last for longer then the leftover pizza sitting in your refrigerator. The self-titled debut by the New York duo is a modern throwback to the 60's served with a heavy helping of twinkling, feel-good indie-pop numbers. It's a refreshing record that doesn't try to reinvent the wheel, but rather pumps your speakers with smile-inducing tracks about teen melodrama.

Highlights include “You Know What I Mean,” “Walk At Night,” “Bad Things,” “Abducted” and the sunny “Go Outside” which features a quote by murderous cult leader Jim Jones: “To me, death is not a fearful thing. It's living that's treacherous.” Deep.

Cults: "Go Outside"


Cults: "Bad Things"

I actually caught Cults playing at Yonge & Dundas Square during NXNE. They were cute and bubbly and had the crowd bobbing their heads and tapping their feet. The fact that they are a relevantly new band was pretty obvious, taking into account their lack of stage presence and minimal interactions with the audience. Yet, assuming they'll be around for some time, that is something that will eventually improve. Here's a couple of shots I took...

Listen to The Weeknd's “The Birds (Part 1)”

The Weeknd has become one of my most recent musical obsessions. And to my content, he posted a new song via YouTube yesterday. Listen to “The Birds (Part 1).” I have no words for how awesome it is; marching drumbeats, heavy synth and Abel Tesfaye's silky smooth vocals.

The Weeknd - "The Birds (Part 1)"

I also discovered today that he's planning on releasing two more mixtapes later this year (super late, I know, I was on vacation when it was announced). And did anyone notice this? They have used “High For This” in a short promo for Entourage.

Watch Friendly Fire's "Hawaiian Air"

Friendly Fires have released the video for their energetic track "Hawaiian Air." The first half of the clip shows frontman Ed Macfarlane on a plane, having the unfortunate luck of being seated with lovebirds, an annoying hyperactive child, and a shoulder-sleeper among others. But then he arrives in Maui and life is good.

It takes me back to when I was on a plane just last month and had to deal with ill-mannered children. I feel for you Ed. 

In other news, I wish I was in Hawaii.

Watch Metronomy's “The Bay” + Jojo remixes Drake?!

Metronomy have unveiled the new video for their stellar track, “The Bay.” It was shot in Torquay, England and from what I understand, is the location that inspired the song. The clip is complete with choreographed poses, sunglasses, gorgeous shots of the bay and leggy models. Enjoy!

So.... remember this little number?

Jojo is all grown up and will soon be releasing Jumping Trains, her third and most mature album this coming fall. Why am I blogging about Jojo? Well, she caught my attention with a remix of Drake's recently leaked brooding track, “Marvin's Room.” She placed a female spin on it and reworked its angle. I was shocked for a number of reasons. One thing, she swears. And sings about sex, well, more forwardly then she did in her teeny pop days. Maybe it's because in my mind, I still picture her as that 14 year-old doe-eyed girl complaining about a boy while leaning against her locker. And wearing a “boys stink” tank-top. But the biggest shock of all, I didn't expect to like it. Her version is nearly as raw, emotional and addictive as the original. Listen below and see for yourself.

Jojo - "Marvin's Room" (Can't Do Better) Remix"

I also came across “In The Dark” which she released on a mixtape last year. Is the world ready for a grownup, sexy Jojo?!

Album Review: Diamond Rings - Special Affections

Diamond Rings – Special Affections

6.5/10

I get overly excited when I hear of new and interesting acts from my hometown of Toronto. One day while scouring about online, I discovered Diamond Rings; an indie dance-pop solo act by John O'Regan, former frontman of The D'Urbervilles. I've had the album for about two months now. It's taken me nearly as long to get through the record in one straight sitting. I really liked “It's Not My Party” and thought I'd pick up Special Affections while at a local record shop. What I eventually came to realize is that the album is very simple, bland and repetitive; many tracks lacking hooks that force my attention elsewhere. Don't get me wrong, it is not horrible by any means. It's dark synth beats and deep Ian Curtis-like vocals are quite mysterious and intriguing. The problem with this album is that most songs start with such great potential, then sit at the same level and fail to form any excitement. It takes some time before it begins growing on you, but with patience, it will. Highlights include “On Our Own,” “It's Not My Party” and “You & Me.” 

Diamond Rings - "You & Me"

Listen to New Singles from Drake & Beirut + Watch Friendly Fires on Kimmel

It's been announced that Drake's next record Take Care will be released on October 24 (which is also his birthday!). “Marvin's Room” is somewhat of a gloomy track set to a slower pace, but don't let that mislead you. I think I've listened to it about five times in a row now. Drake has reportedly been in the studio with fellow Toronto rapper The Weeknd, which makes sense because this single is heavily influenced by him. So far, it sounds like Take Care is on the right track. Visit Pitchfork to give it a listen.

Beirut, everyone's favouorite Balkan folk group, will be returning with their third record The Rip Tide, due out August 30. The album, including single “East Harlem,” will be released on frontman Zach Condon's own label, Pomepeii Records. Listen to the track below!



Last night, dance-punk trio Friendly Fires stopped by for a live performance of “Blue Cassette” on Jimmy Kimmel Live! They were awesome, of course, which is why I thought I'd share it. Also, Ed's shirt brings a smile to my face. I love that he has a tropical-themed shirt on while singing a song off a tropical-themed album. Consistency, I like it!

Album Review: Lady Gaga – Born This Way

Lady Gaga - Born This Way
8/10

Lady Gaga is many things; she is bizarre, a shock-value pioneer, the proud wearer of the hair-bow among many other odd styles, and the owner of many strange outfits and heel-less shoes. However, under closer inspection, she is also very intelligent, an activist, a pianist, a poet, a songwriter, an entertainer and above all, a damn good singer. When she first came onto the scene with “Just Dance,” I remember admitting the song was catchy, but didn't think she would last in a musical world obsessed with Katy Perry and Britney Spears' 15th (?) comeback. With the release of “Poker Face” and “Paparazzi,” I was intrigued, but not entirely sold. Eventually I understood; Gaga was only getting started and wouldn't be going anywhere any time soon.

Like her previous efforts, The Fame and The Fame Monster, Born This Way is a collection of incredibly catchy tracks that you might not understand upon first listen, but will inevitably have you singing and dancing unashamedly in public or in secret. The record starts with the sound of a church organ in “Marry The Night.” It soon transforms into a synth-heavy club-banger about Gaga's love for the streets of New York. It introduces the sound of the album; a strong dose of electronic dance-pop with lyrics centered around religion, sex, gay pride, self-empowerment and... unicorns? Some lyrics literally make you stop and think: WTF? As is the case in gritty disco tracks “Scheiße,” “Government Hooker,” and “Heavy Metal Lover,” uttering lines such as “I don't speak German, but I can if you like” and “Put your hands on me, John F. Kennedy” and finally “I want your whiskey mouth all over my blonde south.” At least she's got your attention.

Oddities aside, Gaga created an album compiling 14 songs she wanted to sound new and fresh and unlike anything she has done in the past. I think she achieved that to an extent with a handful of the record taking an artsy approach (I speak in terms of today's pop music, where she reigns as a Top 40 queen). What she really did with this album was fuse her heavy electronic beats with 80's glitz and glamour. Somehow, it works. Take for instance "The Edge of Glory" which features a Clarence Clemons saxophone solo. Highlights include “Bloody Mary,” “Americano” (a fresh take on The Fame Monster's “Alejandro”), “Heavy Metal Lover,” “Bad Kids,” “Scheiße,” and title track “Born This Way.” To be completely honest, I love the entire album and have played it on a continuous loop for days, with the exception of “Yoü And I,” Gaga's country love song to the state of Nebraska. Not really a fan of that one.


Lady Gaga - "Heavy Metal Lover"


You can call her crazy and absurd, mock her ideals, outfits and the way she chooses to make her statements. Yet, even if you are not a fan, I don't think you can deny her talent. Born this way or not, she is shaping up to be our next big pop star. I wouldn't say Michael Jackson or Madonna level just yet, but perhaps one day...

Cults! Cults! Cults!

I'm in a Cults sorta mood today. I also just discovered that the duo will be in town for NXNE, so I'm super excited for that. The "expected" release of their self-titled debut is this coming Tuesday, June 7. Make sure to grab yourself a copy!

Below I've posted a stream of their songs and their latest music video for my favourite of their tracks, "Abducted." Enjoy!

Listen to Coldplay's New Single + Create Your Own Kaiser Chiefs Album

Alternative English foursome Coldplay unveiled the first single off their followup to 2008's Viva La Vida or Death and All His Friends which is due this fall. “Every Teardrop Is A Waterfall” is sweet and upbeat, with a perfectly-timed release, just in time for summer. It seems like a summery song. Or maybe it's just me. It starts with a distorted keyboard rhythm, introduces an acoustic guitar and takes off shortly after Chris Martin begins to sing. Listen below!

With the music industry the way it is, many bands are constantly finding ways to revolutionize how to sell their music. Indie rock Brits, Kaiser Chiefs, have introduced an interesting idea with their fourth record, The Future is Medieval. The band has launched it on their website, but it's up to fans to “create their own albums.” The band has uploaded 20 songs to the site and have allowed listeners to preview them and choose ten tracks to form their very own, unique album for £7.50 or about $12 U.S. Each fan created LP is uploaded to the site where others can choose to download that version; if so, the fan is rewarded £1.

Cool idea? Sure it is. You can pick the songs you like best and omit the ones you don't. Yet, I don't know if I'm comfortable with buying a record the band hasn't completely fine-tuned down to which songs are included and which aren't. What does this mean for live shows? Are they going to alternate through 20 new tracks?! I think I'm just stuck in 2010, I'll get over it.

One song you can choose to include in your collection (and the first single off The Future is Medieval) is “Little Shocks.” Watch the video for it below.

Also, check out this quirky trailer showcasing a fan creating his own The Future is Medieval.

Gaga Breaks Records, Listen to New Arctic Monkeys & Lil Wayne, Watch Coldplay Teaser + Weezer Covers Radiohead?

It seems like all the promotion for Lady Gaga's Born This Way has paid off. According to Billboard, in its first week Born This Way hit No. 1 on the charts and sold 1,108,000 copies. Not only is this the biggest debut of the year, but the best selling record in its first week since 2005 when 50 Cent's The Massacre moved 1,141,000 copies. While many mocked her promotional strategy, she's definitely the one whose laughing now. Gaga formed deals with retailers such as Best Buy and Amazon and even took to popular online games like Farmville (Gagaville anyone?). Sidenote: The album is actually kinda/sorta amazing and I'm in love with it. Expect a review soon.

Arctic Monkeys' fourth LP won't be available for purchase until next week, however the band's label, Domino Records have streamed the entire record via soundcloud for your listening pleasure. Head over here to listen to Suck It And See.

With “6 Foot, 7 Foot” and “John,” we heard the Lil' Wayne we've now been accustomed to. Yet, with his next offering off Tha Carter IV, Weezy has changed things up. “How to Love” is an R&B accoustic track with auto-tuned vocals. In it he croons about a troubled fling. I'm not sure how I feel about it just yet. Head over here to give it a listen.

Coldplay have released a teaser for their upcoming album which will be out later this year. Lyrics flash on a water-colour background while light, blippy synth caters to your ears. Drummer Will Champion also revealed yesterday that the first single, “Every Teardrop Is a Waterfall,” will be released on Friday, June 4.

And in the strange covers department, Weezer covered Radiohead's iconic OK Computer track “Paranoid Android.” It's not horrible, (I'm a sucker for Rivers Cuomo's cute quirkiness) the band as a whole does a decent job. Watch below.

...and I'm back!

Hola! I have returned from my amazing stay in the Dominican. And what did I learn while I was there? Not only do roads have no streetlights or stop signs, the beach is wavy and always warm, but most importantly, they absolutely love Don Omar's “Danza Kuduro” featuring the song's Portuguese originator Lucenzo. I swear I heard it at least 10 times a day. Anyway, I will be returning to my regular posts very shortly, so stay tuned!

Don Omar - "Danza Kuduro" ft. Lucenzo