The Bottom String

Album Review: "Vermillion" by Dirty Art Club

2013-05-22T10:30:00.000-04:00

Vermillion by Dirty Art Club is released on May 28
on Phonosaurus Records

I can't remember the last time a local band surprised me as much as Dirty Art Club. The Charlotte based duo of Matt Cagle & Madwreck deliver dense tracks filled with hip-hop styled breaks and psychedelic instrumentation, but most importantly they're capable of eliciting emotion through their music. When I first heard Hexes, Dirty Art Club's 2012 EP, I was immediately enthralled by their brilliant Dilla-esque production.

Hexes contained dark undertones and a chaotic sense of direction, but Vermillion is vastly different in that sense. Vermillion is filled with bright melodic exploration, showcasing heady tracks with entrancing rhythms and tight percussion. Coated sun-soaked, reverb washed grooves, Vermillion is another incredible release for a band that's on the fast track to great things.

Album opener "Hemlock" glides along with a constant, smooth bassline and choppy vocal samples but gradually expands into a surprisingly expansive track with airy woodwinds and lush strings. The song seamlessly deviates from its bassy foundation into an easy listening soft-rock dreamscape for it's closing seconds to make for an even more fulfilling transition to the standout "Sun Burn." The aptly titled track plays out like a sepia-toned summer soundtrack thats filled with soulful samples, funky basslines and commanding rhythms.

Each track serves its own purpose but plays perfectly into the grand scheme of the album's progression and tone. Mid-tempo jams explore vast soundscapes that radiate with warm melodies and fantastic production. "Ghost of the Night Tide" is a pulsing track with soaring strings and shimmering synth lines that create a sensational aesthetic. The subtle hint of fuzzed-out basslines and bright harmony add flare to the attention grabbing track. Vermillion is filled with these thickly layered tracks that allow the listener to dig deeper in with each play through. It's somewhat of a necessity with Dirty Art Club, their albums flow together so brilliantly that it's easy to forget that each track exists outside of the context of the full tracklist. But when you single out tracks and bathe in the sheer quality of every song one can't help but notice that every single song is an independently fantastic piece of work.

Vermillion is a self-contained piece of electronic brilliance, it's an album filled with vibrant and adventurous worlds that encapsulate the listener and commands attention. Tracks like "The Devils Mirror" and "Evermore" round out the end of the album with dazed-out tunes that pack a serious punch. These songs are bursting at the seams, there's so much detail packed into this EP but it barely passes twenty minute mark. By the time "Strange Wolf" kicks in and you realize you've reached the final track you kind of can't wait to start it all over again. "Strange Wolf" provides a smooth exit for Dirty Art Club, bringing out a blissful blend of vocal samples and ethereal instrumentation to make for a dazzling way to end the EP.

Dirty Art Club has outdone themselves yet again and one can't help but wonder where the growth will take this duo next. It's clear that their influences will be dragging them in countless different musical directions, but that means nothing but good things for fans of their psychedelic infused electro sounds.

Check out the lead single and first track from Vermillion, "Hemlock":

Ears to the Ground: "Calm Down" by The Love Language

2013-05-09T13:53:00.000-04:00

The Love Language's new album, Ruby Red will be
released on July 23 on Merge Records

Fans of the North Carolina music scene are most likely already familiar with The Love Language, the brainchild of Stu McLamb. Their debut full-length wowed listeners with lo-fi bedroom pop that was crafted in a grandiose manner. Crackles and hisses couldn't quell the mighty presence of McLambs vocals and the band quickly picked up steam, signing to Merge Records for their 2010 follow-up Libraries. While their self-titled record gained them local notoriety, the shimmering summer sounds of Libraries gave the group national attention.

Stu McLamb wears his heart on his sleeve in these albums, the songs pour out like a late night heart-to-heart with an old friend. The raw grit and intensity of their lo-fi debut has blossomed into fully fleshed out anthems of heart-ache and nostalgia. The Love Language has since gone on to perform at festivals like Coachella and most recently debuted a brand new track from their upcoming full-length Ruby Red on Pitchfork.

"Calm Down" is driven by snappy percussion and sharp basslines, coated in McLamb's reverb washed vocals. The sonic progression in this band continues, expanding upon the strong foundation set forth by their previous efforts. "Calm Down" bursts into an explosive chorus of rich textures and powerful melodies, and the rest of Ruby Red feels quite similar. I got to listen to the test pressing as I was interning at Merge last week and must say that the group has continued to grow stronger, the songs are crisp and full of energy while maintaining a balance between slow-churners and faster songs of summer. The album's closer is capped with a robust string arrangement, further solidifying the expansion of this already sonically immense group.

Ruby Red won't be released until July 23 but you can hear "Calm Down" below. Also check out the video we shot at Hopscotch 2011 of the group performing a cover of Diana Ross and The Supreme's "My World Is Empty Without You":

Ears to the Ground: "Soak Our Days" by Free Clinic

2013-04-30T11:36:00.001-04:00

Free Clinic

When I started the Ears to the Ground feature earlier this year, I figured it would serve as a good way to introduce new bands to the readers who are simply looking to expand their local music horizons. So why not start sharing individual tracks from these upcoming groups in the state that may not have full lengths or complete releases to review or promote? Ears to the Ground will do just that!

What better way to introduce this new series than with Free Clinic?! Free Clinic popped up on my radar late last year, Ben Rose's blissful beach pop is sharp and sleek, coated with a distant tinge of nostalgia for careless summer days. Free Clinic has recently taken on Villa Verde's Josh Sullivan and Wesley Hewett to fill out a rhythm section and the new trio will be playing with Virgins Family Band and Justin Lacy & The Swimming Machine at Satellite Bar in Wilmington on May 18. With a June 29 date with Gross Ghost at The Soapbox, Free Clinic looks to be building up some momentum for yet another release this year. Although Better When I'm High was just released in March, Free Clinic has already released a new track from an upcoming release.

"Soak Our Days" is filled with Beach Boys-esque harmonies that create a vast soundscape for this tight reverb washed pop tune to work its magic. Rose's lyrics lead to reminisced daydreams of spending summer days in the sun, perfectly coalescing with the surf-rock vibes emanating from the instrumentation. Free Clinic is an incredibly exciting group that's filled with potential, not to mention they're joining a Wilmington scene that seems to continue its rapid growth. I'm stoked to see this eastern North Carolina scene blossom into something incredible, because it's well on its way.

Mountain Oasis brings Nine Inch Nails, Bassnectar and Neutral Milk Hotel to Asheville

2013-04-30T10:18:00.001-04:00

Trent Reznor will pull double-duty at Mountain Oasis
with Nine Inch Nails and How To Destroy Angels
Photo by: Rob Sheridan

When news first broke about Mountain Oasis nobody really knew what to expect about the festival. There was debate going on over whether or not Moogfest would get pushed to a different date (it did, April 25-27) and what kind of overlap these festival's lineups would have. Mountain Oasis is entering a bustling North Carolina festival scene, after Hopscotch released a dazzling lineup last week it was going to be difficult to steal the thunder of the Triangle's premier festival. But if Mountain Oasis' goal was to get people talking, they've certainly done it.

The festival seemed to be geared towards electronic music, but the lineup announcement that came this morning featured one of the most diverse and eclectic collection of groups that I've seen in recent memory. Headlined by a re-united Nine Inch Nails, Mountain Oasis boasts EDM mega-stars like Bassnectar and Pretty Lights while simultaneously featuring indie-icons like Neutral Milk Hotel, Godspeed You! Black Emperor and Animal Collective.

Yesterday Neutral Milk Hotel announced their Asheville date with Daniel Johnston and Half Japanese and the blogosphere erupted. Those that were keeping up-to-date on Mountain Oasis' happenings swiftly realized that this meant the reunited group would most likely be joining the Asheville festival's heavily hyped lineup. Billed as an "Evening With Neutral Milk Hotel", Jeff Mangum curated the bill that will be playing at Asheville's gorgeous Thomas Wolfe Auditorium. Mangum's legendary group will be joining the likes of a re-united Nine Inch Nails along with Reznors new project, How To Destroy Angels at this new but bustling Asheville festival.

While the rest of the lineup will be released throughout the next couple of weeks, this initial announcement has certainly proved that Mountain Oasis will quickly become one of North Carolina's finest festivals. Combining some of the fastest rising electronic acts with the gatekeepers of electronic music, Mountain Oasis has provided a wide array of artists on their initial lineup. A.C. Entertainment has a strong history booking diverse festivals like Bonnaroo, Forecastle and the previous Moogfest's, so it will be exciting to see the direction that the rest of this lineup is taken.

Weekend passes for the festival go on sale on May 2 and begin at $150. The tickets follow the tiered system that Bonnaroo has been using for years now, as Tier 2 sees the price increase to $175 and the final Tier 3 sits at $200. Festival goers can also choose to take a payment plan route or to ball out with a $400 VIP pass. The initial lineup announcement can be found below:

Show Review: Shakori Hills Spring 2013

2013-04-28T12:41:00.001-04:00

Paperhand Puppet Parade on Saturday at
Shakori Hills

Once again, eager festival goers made the trek to the gorgeous grounds of Shakori Hills for one of the most intimate and unique festivals on the circuit today. Through tornado warnings and rapidly changing weather conditions, fans rallied for the music. From April 18 - 21 a diverse array of incredibly talented musicians graced the multiple stages of Shakori Hills for one of my favorite festivals in recent memory. There's something about the unity that comes from weathering a massive storm inside of the woods that makes for an incredible festival experience. To hell with the muddy pants, to hell with the soaked clothes, last weekend was about the beautiful experience of connecting with individuals through the power of music.

That's one of the most fantastic things about this bi-annual festival, they've shed all of the pretensions that come with the festival circuit, nobody is vying to be the hippest, nobody is trying to shed light on the most obscure bands of the weekend. These people are out here to share the timeless experience of witnessing live music from all over the world. Acts came from lands as far away as Zimbabwe and Brazil and as local as Pittsboro and Chapel Hill to create a wonderful festival filled with good vibes and good times.

Thursday

Keller Williams and The Travelin' McCourys

You couldn't ask for more perfect weather to kick off this long weekend of festivities. I arrived just before the opening ceremony and got to catch a bit of the opening act of the festival Cyril Lance, but the first group that I was truly excited for was Hindugrass, an invigorating and fresh blend of bluegrass and Indian-fusion featuring string players from Lost in the Trees backing up the insanely talented John Heitzenrater as he took listeners on a musical adventure through various cultures. Hindugrass was a fantastic start to the festival and served as a wonderful way to get prepared for the weekend's events. Shortly after Hindugrass ended I made the quick transition to the main stage to check out Keller Williams & The Travelin' McCourys. A sizable crowd gathered to see this blistering bluegrass crew that features of one of the jam-band scene's most adored guitar players. It was fantastic to get the chance to see Keller work his acoustic magic live, but I stayed for a few brief songs before taking in the sounds from the comfort of my camp site. Being able to relax in the woods and still have all of the music be perfectly audible is just another one of the fantastic perks of Shakori. Shortly after Keller and The McCoury's ended I headed back to Carson's Grove to see Onward, Soldiers as their raw Americana tunes provided a sharp burst of energy to the evening. Rambling through favorites like "Watery Grave" and "Monsters" Onward, Soldiers captivated the crowd with their energetic set of gritty and powerful tunes. After Onward, Soldiers tore down the house at Carson's Grove I passed on the festival's staple set of Donna The Buffalo and headed back to the campsite where I ended up making the biggest mistake of the weekend and falling asleep before I got the chance to see Diali Cissokho. I was kicking myself all weekend for missing this Dance Tent set, but thankfully I got to make it up with their second set later on in the weekend.

Friday

Dark Water Rising

Things got off to what felt like a late start on Friday, while there was morning yoga and hooping workshops throughout the early afternoon I didn't venture out into the festival's attractions until the 3:00 set from Dark Water Rising on the main stage. Dark Water Rising is one of the band's that I'd probably have never found if it weren't for Shakori, but I'm certainly glad I did. Their latest EP, Grace and Grit perfectly encapsulates the sound of this group. Charly Lowry's vocals are commanding yet fragile, her voice is capable of soaring through the fields or playing on subtleties with softer, more gentle melodies. The group's soulful folk sounds were a fantastic start to the day and about halfway through their set I headed over to check out the Ben Miller Band at the Dance Tent. The group blends blues and bluegrass with an endearing blast of energy, driving through captivating songs that were fleshed out with slide-guitars, a washtub bass and a whole lot of heart. I briefly checked out David Wax Museum but didn't stay long as the impending thunderstorm of doom made me scuffle back to our tarp covered campsite for safety. Apparently I made the right choice, as soon after I returned the bottom fell out. Sometime during Loamlands' set the sound of the rain completely drowned out the music, upon learning of the tornado warning that was in effect I quickly realized why. I stayed huddled away for most of the evening, only making it back out to see a few essential acts that wouldn't be performing again throughout the weekend. Lizzy Ross Band put on a wonderful set that I caught the tail-end of, but the night was easily stolen by the deliciously funky sounds of Noot D'Noot. Their frenetic blend of psychedelic rock with funk and soul makes for an incredibly engaging and danceable show, despite the puddles of mud that surrounded the stage, the fans were as enamored as I was by Noot D'Noot's fantastic set. Brief spurts of rain continued throughout the night so I chose to take in The Beast's Big Band set from the comfort of my tarp-covered campsite, but the sounds were equally enjoyable. Thankfully I would catch the group's lively set on Sunday afternoon to make up for the missed opportunity on Friday night.

Saturday

Loamlands

Saturday's serenity, albeit a muddy one, was easily one of the weekend's high points. The day started early with Loamlands taking the stage shortly before 11:00 and as their set went on, the sun began to peek out and warm up the chilly morning that started the day. Loamlands was one of the most anticipated acts of the weekend for me, I'd been a massive Midtown Dickens fan so I couldn't wait to check out this fresh take on the southern sentiments found within the Kym and Will's music. While this act was billed as a duo, Brad Cook (Megafaun) took over bass duties as Kyle Keegan (Lost in the Trees) filled in on drums for the majority of their set. Loamlands provides a bit grittier of a take on the formula brought about by Midtown Dickens, the quirk is certainly still there with fantastic live sing-a-longs to Lyle Lovett and Roseanne Cash covers, but it feels like the group is a bit more in-tune with the intricacies in their music. Songs are a bit more dynamic and harmonies are used more sparsely than in Midtown, but I must admit hearing these tunes got me incredibly excited for what's to come from this new group. I hung around for a little bit of Trilogy and Apple Chill Cloggers, but the Paperhand Puppet Parade was easily the highlight of the daytime shows. There's just something endearing about watching families and various festival goers of all ages bouncing around with massive squirrel heads and skull masks on, spreading their joy throughout the entire festival grounds. Following a short return to the campsite I briefly took in the rustic sounds of Deep Chatham before I was making my way to the always incredible Locos Por Juana take over the Dance Tent. While I'd get the bulk of my Locos viewing in for their Sunday set, their Saturday set was equally engaging as fans bobbed, swayed and went generally loco for this brilliant blend of urban and latin stylings. All of the tent's festivities left me ready for some time at the campsite, so I made my return to the tunes when I saw Thousands of One at the Dance Tent just before Oliver Mtukudzi. Thousands of One are a group I've enjoyed a few times at Shakori, and while the crew puts on a stellar show, sometimes the only downside to this festival is that you're getting a bit of the same stuff a little too frequently. However, that doesn't mean that there weren't groups at Thousands of One straight getting down to their soulful, energetic take on R&B.

After taking in some of Thousands of One I had to head to the main stage to take in the heavily hyped sounds of Oliver Mtukudzi & The Black Spirits, this Zimbabwean icon was nothing short of incredible as his songs seamlessly blended elements from traditional African music with soulful pop to create an infectious sound that compelled the crowd to let go and be the beat. Droves of fans packed in close to the Meadow Stage to immerse themselves in these fantastic tunes and as I joined in on the dancing I realized that this was one of those defining Shakori moments that everyone hopes for. Acts like Oliver Mtukudzi are the backbone of this festival, they're heavily lauded acts that are transplanted to this remote farm in a rural North Carolina county and suddenly the language barrier is gone. While fans may not understand all of the lyrics, the passion and talent on display is as universal as the polyrhythms and sharp instrumentation that has compelled these festival goers to release their inhibitions and let the music take them over. Oliver Mtukudzi was a fantastic way to kick off the late-night sounds of Shakori, as DJ Bill Kelly and Equanimous Minds took the festival in an entirely different direction. Electronic music doesn't find itself at Shakori very frequently, but when it does it is usually in the form of the groundbreaking music of Equanimous Minds. While the last performance they gave at Shakori left little room for improvement, the group has somehow outdone themselves by adding in an electric fiddle to the mix, fleshing out the already dense layers of spastic percussion and pounding bass lines. While DJ Bill Kelly was a fantastic way to warm up the excited Dance Tent, nothing compared to the set from Equanimous Minds on Saturday night. Bopa King Carre's blazing percussion breaths life into the beats on display from DJ Adam Sikora. Transfusing house beats with the organic sounds of various hand drums, Equanimous Minds had festival goers of all ages dancing until the wee hours of the morning. While the transition from DJ Bill Kelly to Equanimous was seamless, I found myself eager to escape the dance tent to check out the last bit of Dirty Bourbon River Show at Carson's Grove before DJ Richard McVay took the stage. I caught the last three songs of Dirty Bourbon's set and their raucous carnival-esque stylings had the crowd worked up into a fit of uncontainable excitement. Through quirky and bouncing tunes about topics as flippant as their impressive facial hair, Dirty Bourbon displayed their immense levels of talent through their absolute control over this anxious crowd. After their set I checked back on DJ Richard McVay, but sadly the set felt more like college night at the club than late night at Shakori, as an MC awkwardly rapped through songs from Gnarls Barkley and various other pop/soul acts that simply don't need to be rapped over. My late night adventure ended with a trip to the drum circle which was called short after I saw a girl nearly fall into the fire. Bad vibes, man.

Sunday

Yomira John w/ The Beast on Sunday

Sunday is always a bittersweet day at Shakori. While it's lately been a dreary day filled with rain, this year's Sunday was the exact opposite. Things began to warm up again and I found it hard to gradually pack up the campsite and make the transition back into the real world. An early morning set from The Tender Fruit was a fantastic way to start the peaceful day, Christy Smith's simplistic, heartfelt tunes were the perfect fit for a serene Sunday morning on the farm. After her set I made a spirit mask with my lady friend, an awesome way to kill some time on a gorgeous day, but shortly after that it was back to the Meadow Stage for Diali Cissokho. Diali's music is some of my absolute favorite that's coming out of North Carolina today, Diali's songs ooze with passion and command your attention. Complicated rhythms line these songs, it's hard to focus on which aspect of the music to pay attention to. Do you listen to Cissokho's mesmerizing kora mastery or John Westmoreland's entrancing guitar skills? Do you focus on the smooth bass of Jonathan Henderson or the thick percussion layed down by Will Ridenour and Austin McCall? There's no wrong answer and that's why this band is so good. Every single layer of their music is just as compelling as the other. To put it simple, Diali Cissokho & Kairaba are one of if not the most talented group in North Carolina. Period. While it's hard to follow up an act as incredible as this, The Beast & Yomira John went above and beyond the expectations. The Beast's socially conscious lyricism provides the perfect backdrop for the jazzy yet danceable instrumentation on display from the band. Yomira John helped add a latin flare to the already diverse gang of musicians, adding a tangible chemistry to the stage between Pierce Freelon and the Brazilian songstress. The two leaders engaged in fantastic onstage antics that excited the crowd of eager listeners. Tracks like "Translation" delved into exciting new territory with Yomira joining the group, making for an unforgettable set from this insanely talented local group. The last set of the day came early for me this year, as unfortunately the week after Shakori was hell week for me in classes, but ending the festival with an incredible set from Locos Por Juana was the best way to do it. The band effortlessly controlled the ebb and flow of the crowd, permeating positive energy throughout the Meadow Stage. Singing for everyone from the kids around the world to the kids that were dancing their hearts out at the front of the stage, Locos Por Juana brought an eclectic group of individuals together for uninhibited dance of its purest form.

Looking throughout the crowd at Locos Por Juana provided the perfect snapshot of the Shakori weekend. Dreadlocked hippies and mud-covered bros alike were shedding their preconceived notions of what genre is hip, they were losing their care of who sees them dancing in what sort of way and simply enjoying themselves. Letting the rhythms take over. That's what keeps bringing me back to Shakori, a sense of kinship among complete strangers. So once again, I sit here only a week out of this fantastic festival and I've already begun to count down the days until I can do it all over again.

Big Boi, Local Natives, John Cale and nearly 172 others to play Hopscotch 2013

2013-04-24T12:33:00.001-04:00

Big Boi will be headlining Hopscotch 2013
Performing Friday, September 6th at City Plaza

Since its inception Hopscotch has been a festival filled with diversity. From Panda Bear to Public Enemy, Flaming Lips to Guided By Voices, and The Roots to Built To Spill, we've seen a wide variety of acts grace the now 15 stages that make up the Hopscotch Music Festival. Each year we've see bigger names, deeper lineups and a consistent focus on local music and 2013 proves to amplify each of these aspects. This morning the Hopscotch lineup was released to an eager audience that have let out a collective cry of joy over what many are calling the best lineup yet.

While many festivals boast the same acts, Hopscotch is built around unique experiences. Concert goers can experience sets at Hopscotch that simply aren't possible anywhere else on the festival circuit. Whether it be The Breeders' Last Splash set or The Rosebuds cover of Sade's Love Deluxe, Hopscotch contains one of a kind sets from some of the finest active, and even inactive acts. Whether it be a seldom seen set from the stoner-metal pioneers of Sleep or the eclectic lineup of Gross Ghost followed by Future Islands followed by Big Boi at City Plaza, Hopscotch provides a bit of something for everyone.

Tickets for Hopscotch are on-sale now with a 3-Day Pass at $125 and a VIP pass at $180. Single-day passes will be available in June, but quite frankly passing up on such an incredible weekend at such a phenomenal price would be a huge mistake. I'm already absurdly excited for September, between Earl Sweatshirt, Action Bronson, Local Natives and countless other acts I know this is going to be yet another unforgettable weekend. The full lineup can be found below:

Hopscotch Lineup

Friday at City Plaza:

Big Boi

Future Islands

Gross Ghost

Saturday at City Plaza:

Spiritualized

The Breeders (playing Last Splash)

The Lollipops

Shakori Spotlight: The Beast

2013-04-14T12:33:00.001-04:00

The Beast will be performing at Meadow Stage
on Friday night at 12:30 and Sunday at 3:00 p.m.

If one were to give out awards for outstanding performances at Shakori Hills, we might as well go ahead and hand over the weekend's MVP award to The Beast. It's hard not to be impressed by the jazz driven hip-hop crew, their unrestrained live act is filled with sharp lyricism and tight rhythms. The Beast makes music for the mind and the body as their lively instrumentation compels concertgoers to let the music flow through them. MC Pierce Freelon's words seem to morph into an instrument of their own, careening through adventurous vocal patterns that are lined with exuberant imagery. And this is The Beast on a regular night! The two sets that the group will be playing at this Spring's Shakori will be far from, "regular".

On Friday night the group will be returning to the Meadow Stage for a performance of massive proportions. The Beast will be joined by a special Big Band, adding in horns, strings and percussion to the already eclectic mixture of sounds. A Big Band performance sounds like the ideal experience for an act as expansive as this one. The Beast's dynamics are already a huge part of their music, and with a wider spectrum of sounds to cover, all of the group's nuances will be more defined. The group will take the stage at 12:30 on Friday night and will most likely play until the wee hours of the morning for a crowd of anxious listeners. Whether you're at the foot of the stage or at fireside in the woods, these accomplished jazz musicians will eloquently weave together the introspective intelligence of their lyricism with the primal appeal of their bombastic rhythms to make festival goers dance their night away.

But if one set of massive proportions isn't enough for you, the group will be joined by an immensely talented Panamanian musician, Yomira John. Yomira has recently worked with MC Pierce Freelon with his fantastic new project, The Beat Making Lab, and the two will come together once again for a compelling live show on Sunday afternoon at 3:00 p.m. on the Meadow Stage. After what's sure to be a brilliant set from Diali Cissokho & Kaira Ba, the melting pot of music will continue to churn as the jazz-worlds collide with Yomira and The Beast. Yomira John is known best for her fusion of Afro-Caribbean rhythms with deep Latin influence to provide a musical presentation of the rich diversity of her Panamanian home. I'm immensely excited for both sets from this incredibly talented group, and with a mere four days left until Shakori I thankfully won't have to wait long for this powerful live show.

Check out the group performing with their Big Band back in 2012 at Motorco:

Hear Here: April 12-17

2013-04-11T21:45:00.001-04:00

Show of the Week: Wavves @ Kings Barcade
Sunday April 14

Friday April 12
Lonnie Walker w/ Oulipo @ Harris Field on NCSU Campus in Raleigh, NC
Free
When you combine WKNC, Lonnie Walker, Oulipo and free food there is literally no way to lose. While the event will most likely have to be moved to the Wolves Den at Talley Student Center due to the impending doom of a thunderstorm, that will make no difference in how wonderful this show will be. I've been waiting for what feels like ages to see Lonnie Walker once again, and from what I've heard their return at Kings was something truly special. Combine the long awaited return of Lonnie Walker with the exciting live act of Oulipo and you've got a recipe for a fantastic experience. Oh, did I mention it's free?

Mount Moriah w/ Mac McCaughan & Airstrip @ Cat's Cradle in Carrboro, NC
$10 in advance/$12 at the door
On the heels of a fantastic sophomore full-length, Mount Moriah will be playing a massive show at Cat's Cradle on Friday. Joined by Mac McCaughan of Superchunk and the booming indie rock of Aitstrip, it's going to be a night filled with exciting music from diverse acts. Miracle Temple was an album that displayed dynamic growth for Mount Moriah, getting to see these new tracks live will be a fantastic live experience. Mount Moriah's shows are so special because Heather McEntire's vocals just ooze with passion. Her voice is commanding, so much that it's hard not to focus all of your attention on the visceral live show that you're experiencing. There's some shows where you'll find disenfranchised concert goers glued to cell phones and chatting amongst themselves, but Mount Moriah compels you to put down those phones and connect with their powerful songs. That's what makes their shows show special, their ability to connect with the crowd through sheer talent.

Saturday April 13
Beach Fossils w/ Body Games @ Kings Barcade in Raleigh, NC
$10 in advance/$12 at the door
Kings is always home to some of the most energetic shows in the Triangle, at least from personal experience. Frenetic rock groups can feel at home, and this weekend at Kings proves just that. Saturday night the frenzied guitar-driven pop of Beach Fossils will be filling the venue with equally energetic fans. While Beach Fossils are an exciting up-and-coming act, this show's pull comes just as much from the fresh new local group Body Games. Body Games is another one of those new local groups that's filled with talented musicians from fellow groups. Dax Beaton of Lake Inferior is at the helm of Body Games, but Derrick Torres of T0W3RS and Lilac Shadows fills in on bass for this promising synth-pop act from Raleigh and it makes for fantastic results. Expect a night full of danceable pop goodness!

Sunday April 14
Show of the Week
Wavves w/ FIDLAR & Cheatahs @ Kings Barcade in Raleigh, NC
$15 in advance/$17 at the door
I must admit, when I first heard King of the Beach I was immediately sucked in. Wavves' absurdly catchy hooks are hard not to love. Nathan Williams' songs are sincere yet simple, it's fantastic music to turn up and rock out to. I expect the live show to be one that encompasses an array of Wavves' diverse sounds. While King of the Beach felt like a surf-pop-punk experience, their latest album Afraid of Heights feels like previous efforts were pumped full of grunge influence. Wavves' anthemic pop tunes will be the perfect way to end this night filled with a blend of garage punk and melodic indie rock. Cheatahs' guitar driven indie-rock feels reminiscent of acts like Superchunk while FIDLAR will surely be a wild set filled with spastic punk tunes that will get the crowd amped for the headliners equally energetic set. This is going to be one hell of a show!

Generationals perform at Local 506 in Chapel Hill
on Sunday April 14

Generationals w/ Splashh @ Local 506 in Chapel Hill, NC
$10 in advance/$12 at the door
This is the perfect display of that aforementioned problems of too many awesome shows. Wavves is going to be incredible, but it saddens me to know that I'll be missing Generationals yet again. Generationals create infectious hook-driven indie pop that's got a blissful shimmer. Their songs can compel you, or at least me, to have a personal one-man laptop driven dance party. That's my mark of an awesome band. Openers Splashh provide a similar approach, upbeat pop music with soaring vocals and driving rhythms.

Charles Bradley and His Extraordinaires w/ Paul & The Tall Trees @ Cats Cradle in Carrboro, NC
$20
Damn. That was all I could think when I first heard the soul pouring from Charles Bradley. The former James Brown impersonator wears his influence on his sleeve in the best way possible, resulting in well deserved comparisons to great vocalists like Otis Redding. Bradley's music is driven by tight instrumentation with funky guitar riffs and a sharp horn section. It's hard not to fall in love with Charles Bradley's music, his sound is sincere and compelling. His vocals are filled with passion and punch and on Sunday they'll commanding the crowd and bringing the soul to a lively Cat's Cradle crowd.

Wednesday April 17
Bleached w/ Hunters & Gross Ghost @ The Pinhook in Durham, NC
$10
The perfect way to break up the monotony of the work week, this mid-week blast of garage rock is gonna kill. Bleached are a melodic female fronted punk group. The guitars are bright blasts of distortion and the vocals are reverb-washed pop melodies with punk snarl. Combine this exciting act with a local favorite in Gross Ghost and you've got a stellar night at The Pinhook. Gross Ghost is an equally exciting band that blends pop sentiments with distorted surf-punk stylings, making this an excellent lineup and an awesome way to let loose on a weeknight. We all need it every once in a while!

The Bottom String Compilation Vol. 1

2013-04-10T18:17:00.001-04:00

After a long wait the day is finally here! I'm incredibly appreciative of all of the wonderful artists who were gracious enough to contribute their music for this compilation. It's been a long time coming, and while some tracks that I adored didn't make the cut for complicated reasons I'm still very proud to present these eleven songs from some of my favorite North Carolina artists.

As a preface to this, there was a gorgeous Baobab track that was slotted for this compilation that wasn't available for streaming on Soundcloud due to copyright issues with Hand Eye Records. Sadly the business side gets tied up in these things sometimes, but alas you can soak up the entrancing sounds of "Ganymede" below:

<a href="http://baobabmusic.bandcamp.com/track/ganymede-2">Ganymede by Baobab</a>

For the rest of the tracks though you can look towards our Soundcloud page. Since January I've been contacting local acts from across North Carolina and requesting them to contribute tracks, be they old or new for this compilation. The reception was overwhelming to say the least. On top of my favorite musicians contributing tracks, the incredibly talented Dan Barbour lended a hand in the project as well by producing the beautiful artwork (which is actually hanging in my room now.)

I must thank everyone involved once again for their contributions. It's been a treat putting this release together and I can't wait to bring you more! Below you can find the entire tracklist with a brief summary of the artists.

The Bottom String Compilation Vol. 1
1. "Up All Night" - Free Clinic

Free Clinic is the brainchild of Ben Rose. This powerful pop crew from Wilmington has perfectly encapsulated those muggy summer nights, washed in a haze of nostalgia and excitement. "Up All Night" is featured on Free Clinic's new EP, I'm Better When I'm High

2. "Tender Wishes" - Most Golden

Most Golden is one of the acts I blindly stumbled upon while recruiting acts for this compilation and I was blown away by his music. Most Golden is David Adusei's project of future R&B/pop tunes with a soulful yet dancy appeal.

3. "The Sky" - Libraries

I promise I didn't intentionally lump these Wilmington acts together! Libraries are a swiftly rising electronic duo from Wilmington that have been brilliant bangers and slow-brooding head-nodders for a few years now. Their effortless blend of funk with contemporary EDM stylings is entrancing and "The Sky" showcases some of this uncanny talent.

4. "Good Girl Spells" - Old Soles

A mathy pop band from Charlotte that blew me away on my first listen, Old Soles are one of the bands that I absolutely knew I HAD to have on this compilation. They're a mesmerizing group of musicians that have the ability to create absurdly catchy music without feeling like an abrasive pop act. Smooth melodies glide easily over sharp rhythmic instrumentation to make an incredibly exciting musical experience.

5. "Love Is Loathing" - Ghostt Bllonde

If you've been following The Bottom String for the past few months then you're already aware of this rising gem of the Carolina music scene. Rising from the ashes of Coastal Vision, Marc Kuzio has captivated local listeners yet again with an incredible blend of garage rock and upbeat, swinging pop tunes. His self-described "trash can pop" sounds are lo-fi and gritty, but filled with deeply personal yet relatable woes and anxieties that come with the young adult life.

6. "Shadows" - Ryan Christopher Dean

If it weren't for a random post on Annuals Facebook I'd have never known Ryan Christopher Dean existed, but boy am I glad I do. Dean's music can easily draw comparison to acts like Cursive or Bright Eyes, but his first release displays far more focus and direction than one could imagine. Filled with guest spots from members of Annuals and Lost in the Trees, Dean's debut album It Finds Us is one of the year's biggest pleasant surprises for me. Can't wait to hear more from this absurdly talented songwriter!

7. "Tell-Tale Heart" - Villa Verde

I'll never forget the pretense that I met Villa Verde under because it's absurd and hilarious, but now that it's long in the past I must admit that I've begun to see the band in a different light. They started as "those guys I ran into outside of Kings who are in a band" and swiftly became a group whose music I was wonderfully excited about. Their sound is that of a passionate group of musicians who are gradually finding their direction, but their eclectic sounds are what drives this group. Fans of Pedro The Lion and Death Cab will feel right at home with this straight-forward rock group that's filled with overwhelming amounts of heart and promise.

8. "Lengthy Days" - First Person Plural

This solo project from Mike Robinson of Annuals has gone relatively unnoticed, an absolutely criminal offense. First Person Plural has the lyrical approach of folksy singer-songwriters, but his aesthetic is far from that. Robinson's music displays the depth and texture that can be found within his full-time project of Annuals, but it's got a personal spin to it that feels noticeably more southern-rooted.

9. "My Love" - The Fair and The Foul

An expansive folk group from Greensboro, The Fair and The Foul slipped under my radar for far too long. Led by a powerful female vocalist, The Fair and The Foul tows the line between folk rock and ambient goodness. The group explores a wide soundscape with gorgeous results and "My Love" is a perfect representation of this. While the group is capable of bare-boned acoustic ballads, they shine brightest when they're exploring the horizons of their sounds.

10. "Mild Winter" - Little Hollow

I've got to admit this straight out of the gate, I'm a massive Little Hollow fanboy. I've been following Logan Pate's music for a few years now and I've never understood why his powerful blend of soulful R&B never caught on. Pate's voice captures a deep place inside of us all, his words seem to pour from his mouth with powerful imagery and the utmost sincerity. I kind of geeked a little when Logan agreed to have his music featured on the compilation and I'm not ashamed to admit it. Little Hollow is one of the most promising North Carolina acts. Period.

11. "Lilly Molusco" - Virgins Family Band

When I first heard this track I knew it had to be the closer. Mostly because it's one of the finest album closers in recent memory. Virgins Family Band were formerly just known as Virgins, but this group of Chapel Hill students have grown into something that left this listener absolutely floored. Virgins Family Band display powerful dynamics and passionate vocals. Ethereal instrumentation and beautiful harmonies make it easy to lose yourself in their music, so relax and do just that.

Shakori Spotlight: Noot D'Noot

2013-04-09T18:01:00.001-04:00

Noot D'Noot plays at Carson's Grove on
Friday April 19 at 11:00 p.m.

One of Shakori's greatest draws is the quality of their late night shows. Notorious for high-energy sets from a vast array of genres, there's no telling what to expect when the lineup is released. But whenever you see a familiar face at the festival you can't help but feel elated. That's what happened when I saw that Noot D'Noot would be performing this Spring. Noot D'Noot is a band that I first saw opening for Of Montreal at The Cat's Cradle back in high school. I knew my vision of the band was probably flawed, even though I still looked back on that set fondly. High school Grant just didn't have the best musical tastes.

However, The show I experienced in the dance tent at Shakori 2011 from Noot D'Noot was unlike anything I could have imagined. Noot D'Noot seized my attention from their first note, their soulfully funky sounds proved to be one of the high points of the weekend. The eight-piece crew commands the stage with soaring horns and enough excitement to compel even the lamest of squares to dance their hearts out.

That's what Noot D'Noot brings to the table with a late-night Shakori set, one of the most engaging and incredible performances you'll see all weekend. Powerful female vocals serve as the foundation for this ambitious psychedelic afro-funk experience, Noot D'Noot is a band that you simply must see live to get the full experience.

This group exudes energy, to the degree that you'll be hard pressed to find a face that isn't smiling when they're shaking and sweating to Noot D'Noot. Their rhythms control you and their melodies compel you, they're the perfect blend of depth and sheen to make for an enjoyable experience from all listeners. While the group's vivacious set under the Dance Tent in 2011 was an intimate dance-extravaganza, this year's set will be at Carson's Grove at 11:00 p.m. on Friday April 19. However, some of the wildest Shakori sets can come from Carson's shows, certain Holy Ghost Tent Revival sets can definitely come to mind. The stage set for this band isn't what matters though, it's their music, and I for one certainly won't mind hearing their incredible tunes from this standout act echoing throughout the fields of Shakori.

Check out the video for the band's new track, "Streetfighter" below:

Shakori Spotlight: Diali Cissokho & Kaira Ba

2013-04-04T14:52:00.001-04:00

Diali Cissokho & Kaira Ba will be performing
on Thursday April 18 and Sunday April 21 at Shakori Hills

There's two weeks left until Spring Shakori begins and if you're anything at all like me then you've been counting down the days since you left the gorgeous farmlands last fall. This year's lineup boasts a powerful, diverse lineup filled with mesmerizing acts from all over the globe. While it's always great to check out your favorite locals performing, one of the joys of the festival is the new sounds that you can immerse yourself in. Never in a million years would I have imagined myself blissfully dancing to the sounds of Arrested Development at the first Shakori I attended.

I shared a similar experience the first time I saw Diali Cissokho & Kaira Ba. The tantalizing sounds of Cissokho's kora lured me into a trance, I was lost in the foreign yet focused sounds that were coming from this vivacious group. I look around the stage and spotted Jonathan Henderson of Midtown Dickens rocking the upright bass and was perplexed to realize that this was a North Carolina act. Diali Cissokho & Kaira Ba combine the best parts of Shakori, a fantastic local act that has the capacity of taking you to a far-away land like that of Cissokho's home of Senegal. Diali brings his traditional West African influence into this group, expanding the Carolina music horizons by bridging these cultural gaps between Western and non-Western music.

Diali Cissokho & Kaira Ba is comprised of the prolific songwriter Diali Cissokho and a gang of North Carolina-born musicians who've got a serious knack for conducting the ebb and flow of an energetic crowd. That's one of the joys of this act, seeing the crowd become more and more excited as the music swells and sways. Shakori is the perfect chance to see Diali Cissokho & Kaira Ba in their natural element, with the twenty-one stringed Kora singing out entrancing phrases as Cissokho's powerful voice rings out through the farmlands.

Diali Cissokho & Kaira Ba will be headlining the Dance Tent on Thursday, April 18th at 11:00 p.m and at Meadow Stage on Sunday, April 21 at 1:00 p.m. Kaira Ba will serve as the perfect way to keep things moving and shaking late into a night filled with blue-grass and zydeco powerhouses. Check out the group performing at New Bern's Broad St. Social Club below for a taste of what's to come:

The Bottom String Compilation Vol. 1 to be released April 9th

2013-04-03T12:21:00.000-04:00

The Bottom String Compilation Vol. 1
will be released on April 9, 2013
Artwork by Dan Barbour

No, this isn't some poorly organized April Fools joke. Next Tuesday I will finally release the long-awaited, heavily labored over compilation that features some of my absolute favorite up and coming artists in the state. It's been a mighty long, but incredibly invigorating process of getting all of these tracks together but I'm so excited to share all of this with you guys. While it may be coming a bit later than expected, it's given me an actual grasp on how long it can take to get these things together!

When I started The Bottom String I did it because I wanted to be able to share the local music that I love with people I care about. Nearly three years have passed since then and this has blossomed into something far greater than I could have imagined and it brings me great amounts of pride to know that so many people care about this incredibly talented crew of musicians that call North Carolina home. While this may be the first compilation we release, it certainly won't be the last! It's been an absolute joy to create conversation between musicians and fans within the area and I hope to continue this process for many years to come.

While I've since taken on bukus of other endeavors that take away time from The Bottom String such as working as WKNC's Local Music Director, writing for The Technician, and beginning my freelance career with Creative Loafing Charlotte, The Bottom String will always be where my heart resides. There may be down weeks and stagnant periods of coverage, but I will always be dedicated to providing a platform for the music that matters the most to me. Voices within our own community that may not have a platform in other outlets are welcomed and encouraged here at The Bottom String.

Some of these voices can be found on The Bottom String Compilation Vol. 1 and hopefully these voices speak to you as they did me. From Wilmington to Charlotte, this compilation pulls bands from various regions of North Carolina to create an eclectic mixture of tunes. I can't begin to thank all of these musicians enough for contributing their tracks to this release, some of them recorded songs specifically for our compilation and the amount of joy that fills me with is unmeasurable. Plus, I've gotten a stellar piece of work for album art from one of my favorite artists in the area, Dan Barbour (who's work you can find at Dantanamo Designs).

I hope you find a new local band to follow through this release. That's really the whole goal with this thing, to help spread the word of these incredible musicians that comprise our local scene. Next Tuesday the whole album will be released on Soundcloud featuring tracks from Ghostt Bllonde, Libraries, Baobab, First Person Plural and so many more talented groups. Thank you once again to all of the readers and musicians who have helped make this possible. You're the reason I've chosen to pursue this topsy-turvy world of music journalism and I hope to continue providing an outlet for these voices to be heard.

Album Review: "Haw" by Hiss Golden Messenger

2013-03-29T14:36:00.000-04:00

Haw is released on April 2, 2013 on Paradise of
Bachelors

M.C. Taylor is a songwriter whose talents have flourished with each subsequent release under the moniker of Hiss Golden Messenger. Taylor has been eloquently intertwining love, life and faith with a unique blend of roots driven country/folk for years now, but his 2011 release Poor Moon garnered heavy acclaim. Poor Moon made waves in the North Carolina music scene, the unparalleled sense of honesty and individuality even led to attention from publications like Paste and Washington Post.

As Hiss Golden Messenger gains more attention, the defining characteristics of Taylor's music seems all the more clear. Haw is named for the landmark Cape Fear tributary and reeks of Southern sentiments, it's filled with passion, devotion and rustic images that resonate not only with the native southern but with anyone that's ever battled with their inner-most thoughts or pondered upon days that were and days that might have been.

Haw opens with a rattling statement of self-identity, "Red Rose Nantahala" kicks off with Taylor's soulful croon begging to let him be the one he wants as he proceeds to do just that. The bouncing country rhythms give way to powerful lyricism lined with forked-tongued detractors and a powerful plea to the lord for happiness. M.C. Taylor's sense of character and purpose is powerful but most importantly it's a characteristic that defines this brilliant album. Haw is a mystical blend of gospel, country and folk that makes for an instantly gratifying listen. Each track feels like a vital piece of the puzzle, from the flooring emotion displayed in "Devotion" to the smooth-jazz stylings that can be found in "Cheerwine Easter," the listener is taken on an adventure through Taylor's ethos that feels as relatable as it is personal.

Haw glides along with the finesse that only a seasoned songwriter could possess and guest spots from talented acts like William Tyler, Phil Cook and Mark Paulson (Bowerbirds) are peppered throughout the album to add to the vast array of influences found on the album. Saxophones, fiddles and steel guitars help make this the most expansive project in Taylor's storied career, each track is contained within it's own world of lush instrumentation or bare-boned aestheticism. The best part of Haw is just how incredibly it all flows together, tracks vary from rambling foot-stomping anthems to slow-brooding country ballads with ease. Taylor welcomes the hard times and rain in "The Serpent Is Kind (Compared To Man)," a track that's filled with the powerful imagery that makes this album such a special piece of work. The listener can picture Taylor working on "the same land [his] father tread" as he heeds advice from his father on seeing the sun through the rain; these very snippets create the beautiful world that contains the songs the make up Haw.

The constant attention to detail helps make each listen through a new experience. Certain nuances you missed the first few times around will start rearing their heads, making you step back and realize how special an album like this truly is. As the album's most ambitious track, "Cheerwine Easter" draws to a close the distant bark of a dog seamlessly flows into "Hark Maker (Glory Rag)." While "Hark Maker" is a track that clocks in at just under two minutes, it's one of the standout moments of the album. The track is a driving fiddle piece on its surface, but a constant buzzing of insects creeps in and it's hard to not feel like you're relaxing on your front porch on a cool summer night. Haw transports you to a place and time, and that's a special connection that not all musicians are able to make. However, Taylor seems to do it with ease as he packs his years of wisdom into a 42-minute album that flies by far too fast. It's selfish to want more, but it's too damn good not to.

Haw sets the bar high for 2013, it's hard to think of an album this year that's been as well defined. This new batch of songs finds Hiss Golden Messenger foraying into new territories, bolder dynamics and more vibrant imagery make for one of the best North Carolina albums in recent memory. Haw is a powerful statement from M.C Taylor that proves Poor Moon wasn't a fluke, he's improving with each release and one can only imagine the sounds to come from our golden messenger in the future.

Shakori Hills announces spring lineup

2013-03-05T11:19:00.000-05:00

Shakori Hills Grassroots Festival of Music
and Dance is on April 18-21, 2013

Twice a year festies from all over the area travel to their mecca, the four-day paradise in Pittsboro, NC known as Shakori Hills Grassroots Festival. The spring and fall installments fall within the perfect timeframe, six months apart and right as the weather is finally settling in to a consistent temperature. To be honest the lineup barely matters at this point for me, Shakori Hills is a guaranteed great time filled with old and new friends and fantastically diverse music. This spring gives us much of the same, as Shakori Hills announced their lineup yesterday much to my excitement. While Shakori always brings in a couple of unique headliners, this year's pull feels like a truly special event. From April 18-21 festival goers will be enjoying the sounds of Keller Williams & The Traveling McCourys, Oliver Mtukudzi & The Black Spirits and countless local and international acts that will get your feet stompin' and your hands clapping.

Known for it's wide-spread diversity, this year's festival brings back some Grassroots favorites and welcomes some new members to the family as well. Late night sets from acts like Noot d'Noot, Dirty Bourbon River Show and Equanimous Minds have given way to vivacious dance parties while local standouts like The Tender Fruit and Sarah Shook & The Devil provide intimate shows that showcase the connections that these artists are capable of making with their music. Sitting on the floor of the Dance Tent or Cabaret Tent while listening to a stripped down set from your favorite local folk artist is a feeling that's absolutely incomparable. Shakori offers the highest of highs and the lowest of lows, with wild sets from Diali Cissokho & Kaira Ba and The Beast (a special big band performance with trumpets, saxophones, trombones and more!) fitting in perfectly alongside the deep country acts and low-key folk artists that are found throughout the festival.

The top of this lineup is just as strong as any other in recent memory, an iconic singer-songwriter is joined by a revered bluegrass group, an African pop staple makes his return to the Grassroots festival, and the Shakori staples of Donna The Buffalo will be shredding on the washboard all weekend. However, the pull of Shakori really does lie within the undercard. Loamlands, the brand new group from Kym Register and Will Hackney of Midtown Dickens will have one of their first performances on the farm (they're debuting with William Tyler earlier in April), Hindugrass will be bringing their Indio-Appalachian folk jams, quite frankly there's something there for everyone. While that's an overused phrase it's hard not to find a new favorite act within your little niche of musical tastes at Shakori. From jangling country to soulful R&B to heart-pumping world music, there's a wide array of incredible music on display at Shakori Hills. It's hard not to feel at home for these four days of bliss, so do yourself a favor and check out this gem of a festival. The full lineup can be found below:

Shakori Hills Grassroots Festival of Music and Dance
April 18-21 at Pittsboro, NC

Abdias Ernesto Garcia
Apple Chill Cloggers
The Beast + BIG BAND
The Ben Miller Band
Big Al Hall & His Bare Hands
Big Fat Gap
Big Ron Hunter
The Brothers Comatose
Captain Luke
Chompin’ At The Bit
Cyril Lance
D&D Sluggers
Dark Water Rising
David Wax Museum
Deep Chatham
Diali Cissokho & Kaira Ba
Dirty Bourbon River Show
Donna the Buffalo
Equanimous Minds
Gasoline Stove
Greg Humphreys
Hindugrass
The Horse Flies
Humble Tripe
Ironing Board Sam
John Howie Jr. and the Rosewood Bluff
Keller Williams & The Travelin’ McCourys
Joan Soriano
John Brown’s Body
Lizzy Ross Band
Loamlands
Lucy Michelle & The Velvet Lapelles
Locos Por Juana
Lynn Blakey
Matt Tedder
The Mighty Wonders
Noot d’Noot
Oliver Mtukudzi & Black Spirits
The Owen Family Band
Paperhand Puppet Intervention
Pat “Mother Blues” Cohen
Preston Frank
Randy Dean Whitt
Sarah Shook & the Devil
Solas
The Tender Fruit
Thousands of One
Too Much Fun
Trilogy
Yomira John

Hear Here: February 28 - March 7

2013-02-28T11:30:00.000-05:00

Justin Lacy & The Swimming Machine

Last week was jam-packed with fantastic shows and this week showcases much of the same. Sometimes within the Triangle we'll see a particular city jam-packed with shows while the rest are left to twiddle their thumbs or make the drive up I-40, but every now and then there's that one week where the entire area is filled with incredible performances. You can welcome that particular conundrum this week.

With a raucous show from Spider Bags at Slim's kicking off the week and a sold out performance from Alt-J at Cat's Cradle, this week runs the gamut of musical genres. Raleigh, Durham and Chapel Hill are getting equal amounts of lovin' from both touring acts and local favorites, so make your way out to a show this week!

Show of the Week: Onward, Soldiers w/ Wiley Hunter & The Cazadores and Justin Lacy & The Swimming Machine @ Kings Barcade on March 2

Thursday, February 28
Spider Bags w/ Flesh Wounds & DJ Suggadelic @ Slim's in Raleigh
$5

Two of the areas finest punk acts are going to be packed into one of the Triangle's finest clubs for gritty, high-energy shows. Needless to say this show is going to be incredible. Spider Bags solidified their spot in 2012 as one of the local powerhouses, receiving high acclaim from national publications like Pitchfork, Shake My Head was release that boosted Spider Bags to the glory that they deserve. I finally got to see their southern blend of punk rock at Double Barrel Benefit earlier this month and suddenly understood why this band has received the acclaim they have. The energy was bouncing across the stage, much like the band, as they powered through an engaging set filled with sing-a-longs and wild antics. Spider Bags' fans are a dedicated bunch, exerting just as much energy as the band when taking in their frenetic live performance. Flesh Wounds couldn't be a better opener either, I got the chance to see them in a crowded Berkley Cafe at Hopscotch last year and saw much of the same that I did at Spider Bags, but with far more grit. Flesh Wounds give fans exactly what they want, no frills balls-out punk rock with jaunting rhythms and fast-paced melodies. Slim's is at its finest when it's packed in tightly and filled with the brash tunes that we'll see on display on Thursday. A fantastic way to kick off this batch of shows.

Friday, March 1
Efterklang w/ Nightlands & Onoheim @ Kings Barcade in Raleigh
$10 in advance/ $12 day of

While downtown Raleigh will be filled with First Friday attendees, Kings will be home to the dreamy folk sounds of Denmark's Efterklang. Efterklang is a band filled with ethereal textures and gorgeous melodies, their sound is exquisite and refined with a knack for awe-inspiring musical moments. This six-piece group is touring in support of their 2012 release, Piramida, one that is filled with musical adventure that takes the listener on an emotional and aural roller coaster, exploring a vast musical pallet with satisfying results. Efterklang is joined by Nightlands, the solo project of Dave Hartley from The War on Drugs. Nightlands is fresh off of the release of their second full length, Oak Island and it's a release that gives a humanized feel to the recent influx of glitchy, electronic music. Hartley adds romanticized lyrics tinged with nostalgia to vast electronic backgrounds, making for an alluring listen that is capable of striking chords with its listeners. I'm giddily excited for this show, Efterklang is a band I've been dabbling in for a few years now. However, the anticipation I have to see Nightlands' live show usurps all of this Efterklang hype. Friday at Kings is gonna be good. Real good.

Saturday, March 2
Onward, Soldiers w/ Wiley Hunter & The Cazadores and Justin Lacy & The Swimming Machine @ Kings Barcade in Raleigh
$5 in advance/$7 day of

Holy god, what a stacked lineup. Onward, Soldiers provides a captivating live show that makes their impressive studio recordings look weak and underdeveloped. Onward, Soldiers put on a passionate live show that's capable of making attendees stand back and revel in the chemistry that these members have together. Sean Thomas Gerard delivers vocals filled with intensity and emotion, leading his group of soldiers in a unified march to musical glory. However, the openers are no push over either. Wiley Hunter's take on Americana may be more restrained than Onward, Soldiers but that doesn't mean that it's any less impressive. Hunter has a Springsteen-esque swagger to his songwriting, he wears in influences on his sleeves and there's no shame in it. Wiley Hunter writes songs filled with honesty and integrity, delivering both in large helpings at his live shows. Justin Lacy & The Swimming Machine is without a doubt this show's highlight for me though. This Wilmington outfit will be making their Triangle debut with this show, but I'd expect to see a lot more of this orchestral gypsy punk group in the near future. Justin Lacy commands this troupe of horns and strings with precision and power, delivering vocals that can be as guttural as they can frail. Expect wonderful things from this show!

Bombadil w/ Christy Smith & Magician Michael Casey @ Cat's Cradle
$10 in advance/ $12 day of

Bombadil shows are always some of the most joyful experiences one can have at a live show. When you combine the live quirk of Bombadil with the gorgeous simplicity found within Christy Smith's (The Tender Fruit) music and top it all off with some live magic, you've got the recipe for a...magical night *ba-dum-tsch*. In all seriousness though, Bombadil's live experience is one that's capable of inducing moments of sheer joy and sorrow all within minutes of each other. A solo performance from Stuart with "What Does It Mean" is capable of inducing tears while "Cavaliers (Har Hum)" will have you struggling to wipe the smile off of your face. Bombadil's live shows are a treat, an experience that everyone who loves local music should have at least once. A packed Cat's Cradle will make for a magnificent way to spend your Saturday night.

Sunday, March 3
Waxahatchee @ Duke Cofeehouse
$5

Waxahatchee is the breathtaking simplistic folk project from Katie Crutchfield, better known for her work with P.S. Eliot, a fantastic folk-punk group that was heavily defined by the fragility and anxiousness found within the lyricism of Crutchfield. This sense of honesty and sincerity is hard to find in music, Crutchfield sheds all pretensions to provide listeners with an experience that feels more like a diary entry than a song shared with droves of fans. I've only been to one show at Duke Coffeehouse, but I drove two and half hours to see Andrew Jackson Jihad and it was worth every minute of it. Folk-punk bands like these find themselves with listeners that are dedicated and passionate about these bands because they touch on topics that many musicians are afraid of. Folk-punk displays a sense of humility and self-awareness that creates a strong connection between listeners and artists, and Waxahatchee is the perfect example of this. Don't be surprised at the concert goers singing their hearts out to every passing song, because that's what makes these artists as fantastic as they are. This is going to be an incredible show at a venue that's vastly under utilized.

Tuesday, March 5
Alt-J w/ Hundred Waters @ Cat's Cradle
Sold Out

Towards the end of last year it became hard to turn your head without hearing something about Alt-J. Whether it be detractors complaining about the band's supposed lack of innovation or the followers screaming their praises on high, somebody was always going to have something to say about this breakout English quartet. Drawing comparisons to indie-gods like Radiohead, Alt-J's psychedelic swirl of sounds pulls influence from folk, trip-hop, rock, and much more to produce a unique blend of music that beckons the listener to delve deeper. Opening act Hundred Waters is another group that's innovating contemporary music, producing a folk-tronica sound that's grabbed the attention of dub-step megastar Skrillex, leading to the band being signed to his label, OWLSA. I can't express how upset I was when I went to buy a ticket for this show and saw it was sold out. Utterly devastated. However, a ticket to Bonnaroo easily calmed my nerves (but not my wallet) in regards to an Alt-J live experience. To those of you with tickets to this show, know that I hate you.

Drive-By Truckers w/ The Whigs @ Haw River Ballroom

$22 in advance/ $25 day of

If you've yet to attend a show at Haw River Ballroom then just go ahead and do yourself the favor. One of North Carolina's finest venues, Haw River is a gorgeous and inviting venue that's attached to the finest convenience store/restaurant that you'll ever stumble upon. The expansive venue has two levels of seating for your comfort and a massive standing room floor that makes for an incredible view with a packed house. As Drive-By Truckers roll through I'd imagine you'll see just that, as this iconic alt-country group has amassed countless die-hard fans throughout their seventeen year career. Going through various lineup changes over the years, their current touring lineup is as tight as ever. Their on-stage chemistry permeates throughout the crowd, the joy can be seen on Patterson Hood's face as he belts out anthemic southern rock tunes with a commanding presence. Fellow Georgian's, The Whigs will be joining Drive-By Truckers, bringing their southern take on garage rock to the Haw River stage. The Whigs' overdriven rock tunes play out like highway soundtracks, making for the perfect transition into the seasoned rock vets that will close out the night.

Album Review: "Miracle Temple" by Mount Moriah

2013-02-25T17:42:00.002-05:00

Miracle Temple is released on February 26, 2013
on Merge Records

Mount Moriah is a band that can connect with their listeners on a very rudimentary level. Albums like Miracle Temple and the band's self-titled debut perfectly encapsulate life in the south. Heather McEntire's vocals are dripping with emotion and packed tight with vivid imagery. You're likely to be transported back to a blistering summer day in a college town with tracks like "Younger Days" or to a day filled with sporadic thunderstorms and dark clouds with the intensity found in the album's closer "The Telling Hour".

Mount Moriah are capable of exploring a vast array of emotions and textures within their albums, and their full-length debut on Merge Records does so in a way that Mount Moriah has never done before. While Mount Moriah was filled with just enough sheen and substance to attract fans in droves, Miracle Temple shows the true depth of this talented act by displaying a refined and enriching piece of music.

Within the opening seconds of "Younger Days" we're greeted with a nostalgia-tinged line from McEntire that seems to glide over the crisp guitar-work from Jenks Miller, "You were always wild" croons Heather in a track that laments on the hopelessness that comes with being left behind. "August is over, so when are you coming back?", it's a reprise found within "Younger Days" that feels so bright texturally, but upon further inspection proves itself to reek of abandonment. Mount Moriah's music doesn't dwell on this sadness though, but rather embraces the full spectrum of our emotions. A track like "Younger Days" serves as the perfect opener for Miracle Temple, it's bright and catchy and perfectly transitions into the bouncy, anthemic track "Bright Lights", but even then it's a song that contains multitudes. Most of Mount Moriah's songs do. There's the surface aesthetic that a listener can immediately appreciate, but there's also a veil to be peeled back that opens up a possibility to truly connect with this artist. Miracle Temple is filled with big-town dreams from a small-town perspective, lyrics that are filled with a deep desire to clutch on to some sense of security.

In album standout, "I Built A Town", McEntire leads off with a heartbreaking line, "I built a house behind my eyes/I sewed a veil for you to hide". Tracks like this one display the very restraint and diversity that make this album the gorgeous masterpiece that it is. Lush strings fill the song with atmosphere, organs bellow out a powerful foundation and Miller's guitar work fits all of the pieces together with a minimalistic approach that nestles itself into the mix of this beautiful song. Mount Moriah fires on all cylinders on this album, never before has Heather's vocals sounded as fragile or as robust. The sheer expansiveness of Miracle Temple is in itself a feat, the album ranges from Dolly Parton-esque ballads to powerful country anthems that feel like they could contemporary hymnal for the broken hearted. McEntire sings of nostalgia and the darkness that comes with it, summer love stained with the sadness of its eventual end. Rarely can a vocalist contain such breadth, but Heather McEntire is capable of delivering the most delicate and eviscerating phrases with a sense of ease and sincerity.

Mount Moriah is a beacon of light in a music scene that's driven by its strong sense of community. On paper one would never imagine a post-punk vocalist and metal guitarist to form one of the most prolific North Carolina country acts, but they've done just that. Mount Moriah's music is therapeutic, rooted within hearts of every small-town dreamer across the globe. Dreams of escaping to somewhere with infinite opportunities lie in reach, and Mount Moriah is already well on that road. The band's Merge debut makes a statement, it's a battle cry to be heard across the nation. If Mount Moriah was a dip into shallow water then Miracle Temple is a plunge into the deep end. Miracle Temple is a fulfilling album that displays the massive growth found within this local standout that may not be a hidden gem for much longer.

Around The Triangle: Tame Impala, Virgins Family Band, Frontier Ruckus and Brand New Life

2013-02-24T18:49:00.001-05:00

Photo by Agatha Donkar

2013 has proven to be a busy year for shows in the Triangle and it doesn't look like that tradition will be going anywhere soon. While it's been some time since we've posted an Around The Triangle, this influx of incredible music can't go ignored! So alas, Around The Triangle has returned once more with another stack of awesome photos from recent shows around the area.

Thanks to contributors Agatha Donkar and Emily Ritter, we've got some fantastic shots from the last few weeks of shows in the area including a sold-out Cat's Cradle show from Tame Impala, an incredible outing from Virgins Family Band for their album release, and a magical Valentine's Day performance from Frontier Ruckus.

Tame Impala w/ The Growl @ Cat's Cradle
February 21, 2013

Virgins Family Band w/ Baobab @ Local 506
February 22, 2013

The Brand New Life w/ Casual Curious & The Bronzed Chorus @ The Pinhook
February 15, 2013

Frontier Ruckus w/ Mary Johnson Rockers @ Local 506
February 14, 2013

Hear Here: February 21 - February 27

2013-02-20T18:11:00.000-05:00

Baobab (Phil Torres & Whitney Trettien)

After a few weeks of Hear Here downtime due to that pestering obligation known as "school", it's back in full effect with an incredible week of shows. From a sold out Tame Impala show at Cat's Cradle to a couple of highly anticipated local outins from personal favorites like Baobab and Naked Gods, there's a wide array of awesome live music for you North Carolina folks to check out. Thankfully the shows are relatively spread out throughout the week as well, so for once there's little worry about missing one show for another or attempting to breaking the laws of time and space and being in two places at once. Diversity and excitement is abound in the Triangle this week, so let's get to some shows!

Show of the Week: Baobab w/ Virgins Family Band @ Local 506 in Chapel Hill, NC on Friday, February 22

Thursday, February 21

Naked Gods w/ The Invisible Hand & Spooky Woods @ Tir Na Nog in Raleigh, NC

FREE

Holy lineup batman, Local Band Local Beer has knocked this one out of the park. The weekly event put on by WKNC and Tir Na Nog has been consistently putting on wonderful local shows for quite some time now, but it's been a while since I was as excited as I am for this one. Naked Gods are a local indie rock powerhouse from Boone, meaning they don't get down to the Triangle too frequently. But when they do they bring the house down with their frenetic blend of spirited melodies and charging, yet often jaunting rhythmic changes. Supported by The Invisible Hand, an act from Charlottesville, VA that brings lush and erratic psych pop to the stage with an incredible sense of presence. Spooky Hands, a new local act comprised of Skyler Gudasz, Jeff Crawford (Roman Candle), James Wallace (Max Indian), and Casey Toll (Mount Moriah) will be opening the evening with a highly anticipated set of rootsy folk rock tunes. Rarely do shows this awesome come around on any old weekday, and it's even more rare for these events to be free. Take advantage of it!

Friday, February 22

Baobab w/ Virgins Family Band @ Local 506 in Chapel Hill, NC

$5, Double Album Release Show

Last year Baobab put out one of my favorite albums of the year, and it looks like he's on par to do much of the same in 2013. Earlier this month I ran a Local Artist of the Month feature on WKNC where I got the chance to preview some of his new tracks (a feature you can find in full here) and needless to say I was just as blown away as the first time I heard Baobab. Phil Torres seamlessly blends the simplicity of folk with the complicated and dense textures of electronic and world music with incredibly satisfying results. But to top it all off, one of the most exciting new acts of 2013 is joining Baobab for this celebration of album releases. A few weeks ago we featured Virgins Family Band on The Bottom String, debuting their full length album and releasing our fantastic Bottom String Session that we filmed with the band, but on Friday I'll finally get to see the full band performance that I've so anxiously been waiting for. With two full drum kits and and a vast sonic pallet, the expansive and jazzy sounds of Virgins Family Band will be fleshed out with gorgeous results on Friday. With word of a shadow puppet show and other exciting antics, this show is without a doubt the highlight of the week for me. Don't miss this incredible event!

Saturday, February 23

DiggUp Tapes Six Pack Sound Series w/ Oulipo, Juan Huevos, & Body Games @ Slim's in Raleigh, NC

$5, First 50 in attendance receive a free cassingle from Oulipo/Body Games

The second installation of the DiggUp Tapes Six Pack Sound Series proves to be just as incredible as the first. Oulipo is one of the fastest rising acts in the state, their perplexing take on contemporary art-rock acts like Animal Collective and Dirty Projectors has been pulled off with delightful results. Featuring luscious arrangements of synth, guitar and percussion that swirl together to create an enticing sound that's all their own, Oulipo put on an engaging live performance that breathes new life into their studio performances. Joined by a riotous live show from Juan Huevos and the debut of Body Games, this is going to be another fantastic show. Body Games is the new project from Dax Beaton of Lake Inferior, featuring Derek Torres of T0W3RS, and the group's roster alone invokes excitement to followers of the Carolina music scene. The first 50 in the door will get a copy of a cassette featuring new music from Oulipo and Body Games, so get out to Slim's early!

Sunday, February 24

Foxygen w/ Naked Gods @ Local 506 in Chapel Hill, NC

SOLD OUT

Sad news for those that missed the chance to get tickets for this show, because it's one that looks like it'll be a hell of a time. Foxygen is a California based duo signed to Jagjaguwar that's been making waves throughout the country this year. Their latest full length, We Are The 21st Century Ambassadors of Peace & Magic is a refreshing blend of psychedelic and garage rock that treads upon familiar musical territory, but approaches it in an exciting way. Their sound is warm yet crass, making them the perfect fit with local standouts of Naked Gods. Curse the lucky bastards that get to see these guys twice in a weekend, because I for one will be sitting this show out. However, those who were bright enough to purchase tickets far enough in advance will have one hell of a time on Sunday night.

Monday, February 25

Ra Ra Riot w/ Pacific Air @ Cat's Cradle in Carrboro, NC

$15 in advance/$17 day of

Ra Ra Riot are yet another band that's been bitten by the electronic bug lately, their latest album Beta Love has traded in strings for synths and the result is a bit surprising but enjoyable. While vocalist Wes Miles' vocals lay sweetly atop the beautiful arrangements that were previously found in Ra Ra Riot's music, his voice now ducks in and out of pulsing rhythms and thick synths. Accompanied by Pacific Air, this show will sure to be a night jam-packed with energy and dance-laden tunes.

Tuesday, February 26

Some Army w/ Small Houses & Onward, Soldiers @ The Pinhook in Durham, NC

Some Army burst onto the Carolina music scene in 2012 and from the looks of it, they'll aim to solidify their stance as one of our state's finest acts in 2013. Honing their already precise sound, the group is working on funding their debut full-length through a Kickstarter campaign that's fairly close to completion. Some Army's reserved brand of psych-pop is a joyous live experience that allows the listener to truly take in all of the layered sounds that are nestled within their studio mix. Rustic roots take hold as this southern take on psychedelia encapsulates fans with lavish arrangements and addicting melodies. These southern aspects will surely be even more pronounced with the alt-country Philly rockers Small Houses and Wilmington based Americana group Onward, Soldiers opening the show.

Wednesday, February 27

WKNC Presents: Baobab w/ Day Joy & Casual Curious @ Kings Barcade in Raleigh, NC

You'd be mad not to jump all over the chance to see Baobab twice in one week, I know I for one can barely contain my excitement at this opportunity. The last live Baobab set I saw was one of the band's earliest live performances at WKNC's DBB 9 Day Party, but they were still working out the kinks of presenting such studio based music in a live setting. Fear not though, the band has added drummer Josh Stohl (Justin Robinson & The Mary Annettes) to help flesh out their live show, adding a much needed sense of rhythm and tightness to these explorative tunes. Baobab will be joined by the electro-jazz group Casual Curious from Greensboro, a tantalizing mixture of brass and synths that makes for an powerful live performance filled with presence and precision. These Carolina experimentalists will be joined by Day Joy, a fantastic folk group from Florida whose sound reaches past the horizons of their genre, transcending into a dream-like state of pop wonder that will make for a gorgeous live performance. WKNC strikes again, putting on two of the strongest shows of the week and continuing to prove why they're able to call themselves the best college radio station in the state.

Album Review: "Desert" by The Dead Tongues

2013-02-11T18:11:00.001-05:00

The Dead Tongues released Desert on February 9
at The Cat's Cradle

Ryan Gustafson is a songwriter that I'd only heard of for years, but until Hopscotch 2012 I had never actively listened Gustafson. Big mistake. While I'm glad I made sure my first experience with the talented songwriter was a live show, I wish I'd hopped on the train earlier. After releasing Donkey in 2009, Gustafson hopped around from notable projects like Max Indian, The Light Pines, and Mandolin Orange all the while working on instrumental tracks of his own under the moniker The Daughter Is Ambiguous. However, 2013 marks the return of Gustafson's solo work, and this new Dead Tongues release is something truly special. It's clear that Gustafson's break in songwriting allowed him to develop a sense of purpose within his songs, everything feels as raw and personal as it did on Donkey, but it feels far more dynamic than Gustafson's previous release.

Each track has a defining voice, driving the album down a road that contains many exciting peaks and curves, but ultimately arrives at the same comforting sense of sincerity that drew the listener in to begin with. Ranging from alt-country anthems to expansive six minute tracks like "Milestone" that careen effortlessly through a wide-open musical pallet, Desert is a unique album that can truly connect with listeners through powerful lyrics and gorgeous instrumentation.

Gustafson's lyricism is something that can't be emphasized enough, while each song remains entirely enjoyable musically, the textures and feelings that are brought out through Gustafson's raw approach to songwriting is what makes The Dead Tongues the powerhouse they are. Tracks like "Depression" boast a bouncy yet rustic approach both melodically and musically, but from the opening lines it's clear that this song contains much more than a catchy hook. "I get in depression/Like you get into cars driving you home/Like she got into cutting/And I got into drinking on my own". One of the joys of this album is that each song contains these lyrical gems, these moments where you feel like a veil has been lifted between you and the musicians and you can truly connect with their music. Tracks like "The Desert" and "No Intentions" feel like sincere statements that can evoke the memories of a particular place or time, sonically they contain memorable melodies and lyrically they draw upon feelings of self reflection and aimlessness that many can immediately connect with.

Desert is an album that's wonderfully diverse to be as cohesive as it is. Gustafson's songwriting can be likened to Ryan Adams, but it feels like Gustafson is a bit more comfortable with roaming into untravelled territory than the former Carolina songwriting sensation. Take "The Harbor" for example, it's a track that feels like it could have been belted out by Dylan or Cash, it's a rustic narrative that's driven by unabashed honesty and reflection. The Dead Tongues are a band that's filled with nothing but talent and potential and Desert marks the return of an amazingly talented songwriter to bask in the spotlight he deserves. After seeing Gustafson in the contributing role so frequently with acts like The Human Eyes and The Light Pines, it's nice to see his ideas at the forefront once again, as it produces incredible results. Desert is a fantastic album that roams into the vast unknown, it's filled with nomadic reprises and a sense of comfort in the uncertainty that comes with that. The Dead Tongues have embraced that uncertainty through approaching their music with rich dynamics, producing an album that contains old-country ballads, powerful pop gems, and everything from strings to organs to fill in the details. I can't wait for the round of shows that comes with this release, having missed the Donkey-days, this will be a wonderful introduction to a full-band Ryan Gustafson project. The Dead Tongues are speaking clearly and Desert is a powerful statement from Gustafson on his staying power within the Triangle music scene.

Virgins Family Band debut "Honeylion" on The Bottom String w/ a new Bottom String Session

2013-02-08T11:45:00.000-05:00

Honeylion by Virgins Family Band was released on
February 8, 2013. The band will be celebrating
their album release on February 22 at Local 506
with Baobab.

Virgins Family Band are one of the most surprising acts to come from the Triangle in recent memory. As I was scouring the web for local shows I found the Baobab double album release show with Virgins Family Band and knew that I'd be in for a treat. However, when I first listened to Honeylion there was a visceral reaction that I wasn't expecting. Their sweet harmonies and unpredictable melodies make each listen through an experience in which you can peel back new layers and find new moments in this music to connect with. Ranging from frenetic soul to jazzy indie rock, Virgins Family Band have a sound unlike any other band in the state. It's one of those bands where you can genuinely start to realize the depth of the Carolina talent pool, because seemingly from out of nowhere I've grown incredibly attached to this band.

Honeylion is as strong a statement that any band can wish to make with a debut, they've crafted a sound that's entirely unique and filled with melodic masterpieces. Tracks like the album's opener, "Moon Breath" display the dynamic breadth displayed within this 8-track album. Powerful rhythms drive these tunes, and they're capable of changing direction on a dime and delivering a brand new addictive melody that's filled with adventurous originality. The best part about Honeylion though is that it always leaves you guessing, Virgins Family Band combine elements from jazz and pop music in a way that creates an inviting yet still complex soundscape that's filled with gorgeous musical moments that create for an invigorating listening experience. The entire album is packed with fantastic musical endeavors, from the croons of "Eyes Like Troubled Dreams" to the shiver-inducing shouts that close the album in "Lily Molusco", Virgins Family Band display a mastery of dynamics and pacing.

Honeylion feels like a truly cohesive piece of work, it's difficult to not listen to this all the way through as each track beckons the listener to continue on. The flow of Honeylion is as smooth as the title implies, this release is filled with seamless transitions and brilliant resolve. Honeylion soundtracks my winter days and will soon do the same for my spring, mostly because it's a ubiquitous piece of music that truly feels timeless. Honeylion has given Virgins Family Band my complete attention. They're one of the most talented acts I've seen from North Carolina in years and I take great pride in being able to debut their first full-length. Check out the Bottom String Session I filmed with the band below and purchase their album Honeylion on Bandcamp:

Honeylion by Virgins Family Band

Debut: "Tell-Tale Heart" by Villa Verde

2013-02-04T16:46:00.000-05:00

As we get closer to the release of The Bottom String Compilation Vol. 1, I can barely contain my excitement for this thing. Some of my favorite local artists have contributed tracks to this compilation, and I've also found new favorites as well. The best way to spread some of that excitement is to let you guys hear some tracks from this thing! Last week I debuted "Love is Loathing" by Ghostt Bllonde, and this week I've got yet another track for everyone to hear. This one is from Villa Verde, a band out of Wilmington that I met at Kings back in December. When I started to think of bands to include on this compilation I went back to finally listen to Villa Verde and found myself pleasantly surprised. After contacting the band they decided to contribute an unreleased track for the compilation.

Villa Verde recorded "Tell-Tale Heart" last May, shortly after losing their lead vocalist and guitar player, but bassist Joshua Sullivan took on vocal duties. After recently adding Corey Blackburn (of Museum Mouth and Fractal Farm) on guitar, Villa Verde has become a trio yet again, but one that's refined their sound, adopting jaunting rhythmic changes that are contrasted with smooth vocal melodies. "Tell-Tale Heart" builds slowly but surely, taking an ever-changing dynamic approach ranging from soft-spoken restraint to anthemic choruses. Villa Verde is a young band that's filled with potential, as they continue to evolve and find their footing we can hope to hear great things from this group. Sullivan said the band is growing to be "more math minded, kind of like old Maps and Atlases, but still with plenty of indie rocking".

With a new lineup and a new year, I expect to be hearing a lot more from Villa Verde, they're a part of an emerging Wilmington scene that's being fueled by many of the folks that are included on this compilation. I'll be dropping news soon about the release date and track listing for The Bottom String Compilation Vol. 1, but for the time being check out this awesome new track from Villa Verde:

Debut: "Love Is Loathing" by Ghostt Bllonde

2013-01-28T11:15:00.000-05:00

Artwork by the wonderfully talented
Dan Barbour

As January draws to a close we're getting closer and closer to the release of our first compilation, "The Bottom String Compilation Vol. 1". Drawing from acts from Wilmington to Charlotte, this compilation will boast a wide array of unreleased or newly released tunes from some of the most promising acts of 2013. With Ghostt Bllonde preparing to play at WKNC's Double Barrell Benefit Day Party on Saturday, what better time to debut the first track from our compilation?!

Our first Ears to the Ground piece covered this brand new band that's risen from the ashes of Coastal Vision, but the two acts couldn't be farther apart in their approach. Ghostt Bllonde takes a rough around the edges approach to traditional pop sentiments, resulting in a lo-fi brand of garage punk all their own. Ghostt Bllonde is one of the first bands I sought out for this compilation, the band has a knack for catchy melodies and blistering hooks that linger in your head and "Love Is Loathing" is a perfect example of that. Check out the track below:

Hear Here: January 25 - January 31

2013-01-25T14:07:00.002-05:00

Finally, Hear Here has returned! In case you're not familiar with our old series, Hear Here is a weekly feature that highlights all of our favorite upcoming shows around North Carolina with a strong focus in the Triangle. This week is absolutely packed with phenomenal shows, from indie legends to rising stars, the tobacco state sees one of the strongest day-to-day schedules we've seen in a while. From the frenetic garage masterpieces put out by the prolific Ty Segal to the transcendental folk tunes of the reclusive Jeff Mangum, there's a bit of something for everyone within this batch of shows.

Show of the Week: Jeff Mangum w/ Tall Firs @ Brooklyn Arts Center in Wilmington, NC

Friday, January 25
Gray Young w/ Wesley Wolfe & Bronzed Chorus
"Bonfire" Album Release Show at Kings Barcade in Raleigh
$6 for 21+, $8 for under

Gray Young's crowd funded album is finally seeing the light of day, and the album couldn't be more aptly titled for the folks that brave this winter ice storm to go celebrate the release of Gray Young's strongest effort to date. Characterized by shimmering instrumentation and knack for powerful transitions, Gray Young's live performances are compelling and inviting. Bonfire displays a higher level of technical proficiency for the band, and the risks that they take within this new release pay off twice over. Joined by fellow post-rockers Bronzed Chorus and the local DIY master Wesley Wolfe, this show will have a fantastic flow with the day dream-inducing locals book ending the powerful and personal pop sounds of Wesley Wolfe.

Acoustic Syndicate w/ Overmountain Men

at Cat's Cradle in Carrboro

$15

A powerful lineup filled with folk favorites from the North Carolina music scene. Acoustic Syndicate is a trio of seasoned veterans who combine traditional folk and bluegrass elements with gorgeous harmonies to produce a soulful and passionate sound that has echoed throughout the scene for two decades. Playing everywhere from Bonnaroo to Merlefest, Acoustic Syndicate has been blazing trails for North Carolina folk artists for quite some time now, and the same can be said for members of Overmountain Men. Featuring David Childers of Modern Don Juan and Bob Crawford of The Avett Brothers, this Carolina supergroup sheds any pretensions of their former successes and provides a pragmatic take on the current Americana/Folk Rock trend. The band just released their latest full length, The Next Best Thing on Tuesday, so expect a raucous showing from these two fantastic acts.

Saturday, January 26

Calexico w/ Bahamas & The Kingsbury Manx

at Cat's Cradle in Carrboro

$20

A lineup filled with two national powerhouses and a resurging local act, The Cat's Cradle provides for a wonderful way to spend a Saturday night. The alt. country group has been highly lauded for years now, and it's no wonder why with their seventh studio album being just as powerful and well rounded as their previous efforts. Releasing split singles with acts like Iron & Wine and Beirut, these Arizona based rockers have displayed a versatility seldom seen within their scene. Their tracks can vary from a rolling, rambling rock anthem with soaring horns to soft-spoken ballads that beckon for your attention with their restraint and lyrical prowess. However, the spotlight isn't solely on Calexico, as Bahamas boast equally invigorating songwriting with a minimalist approach that pays off greatly thanks to a breathtaking croon and infectious toe-tapping, head-bobbing rhythms. Local act Kingsbury Manx will be opening, an band who's excitement permeates from the stage, making them an absolute joy to watch. Their next studio album will be dropping in March, so expect to hear some new tunes!

Sunday, January 27

Onuinu w/ Tiger Waves & Heyrocco

at Local 506 in Chapel Hill

Onuinu is a fantastically fun pop act that seamlessly blends elements of hip-hop, house, and electronica into a concise yet sleek sound. There's countless areas of Onuinu's music to lose yourself in, whether it be the driving, pulsing rhythms behind these beats, the ethereal electronic soundscape, or the entrancing vocals, Onuinu will compel you to hone in on these aspects and immerse yourself in his dense soundscape. Expect much of the same from Tiger Waves and Heyrocco, while these two bands are far less experimental than Onuinu, they still contain an endearing and jangling quality in their music that invokes the desire to rhythmically flail your ligaments like there's no tomorrow. This is a night filled with brilliant pop acts from head to toe, plus it provides a wonderful escape to the frigid nights we've been having lately.

Monday, January 28

The Music Tapes: The Traveling Imaginary

at Cat's Cradle in Chapel Hill (also at Duke Coffeehouse in Durham on 1/29)

$12

Last year Julian Koster released his third album under The Music Tapes moniker, but he's been altering the perception of your average indie band for decades now. Featured in Neutral Milk Hotel and The Olivia Tremor Control, this Elephant 6 member has been providing unique spins on the contemporary folk world, but his latest show blows all expectations out of the water. Koster will be performing under a circus tent for his latest tour, creating a luscious environment for the listener to become immersed in and allowing his stripped down tunes and resonant hollers to become an event of their own. Plus, how can you go wrong with shows inside of a circus tent?!

Wednesday, January 30

Jeff Mangum w/ Tall Firs

at Brooklyn Arts Center in Wilmington (also at Neighborhood Theatre in Charlotte on 1/31)

$28.50/$38.50

This sold out show has been a dream of mine since the first time I heard the powerful opening lines of "In The Aeroplane Over The Sea", but never did I think it'd be in the gorgeous venue of the Brooklyn Arts Center. It's the perfect combination of visual and aural stimulation, a surefire singalong of some of the defining songs of many folks teenage years within the confines of a gorgeous cathedral. I've heard nothing but incredible things about Mangum's recent run of shows, and while this may not be his last tour it's still going to be an incredibly moving and inspiring experience. These songs were the soundtrack to many an angsty teens lives and continued to resonate with deeper meaning and impact as these listeners grew older. Jeff Mangum is a timeless songwriter and getting the chance to see him is a once in a lifetime experience that I will forever cherish.

Ty Segall w/ Ex Cult and Gross Ghost

at Kings Barcade in Raleigh

$12 advance/$14 day of

Ty Segall has been an absolute powerhouse throughout the past year. Releasing three albums in 2012, this garage-psych genius has been churning out crass yet powerful rock anthems like nobodies business. Brandishing fuzzed out guitar lines and terribly catchy melodies, Ty Segall compels even the squarest of individuals to become that jean jacket wearing teenage punk that we all secretly envied, if only for a moment. Segall's output has been nothing short of awe inspiring, it's rare that someone can be so productive that they release three albums, let alone three absolutely killer albums. Segall will be bringing his distorted masterpieces to Kings next Tuesday with fellow garage rockers Ex Cult and local favorites Gross Ghost. It's a night to remember at Kings, without a doubt this is one of the strongest lineups we'll be seeing for a while at Kings. If you're not making your way out east for Jeff Mangum this should be a must see!

Ears to the Ground: Dirty Art Club

2013-01-08T17:41:00.001-05:00

When I first heard Dirty Art Club I was absolutely blown away. The psychedelic influenced electronic music of this Charlotte duo was filled with enough soul and groove to compel a head bob at the very least, but its nuances and textural depth is where the band shines. Hexes, the band's most recent EP, explores a multitude of sonic landscapes, each one containing equal amounts of chaos and serenity. These tunes are meticulously structured yet smoothly flowing, they beckon the listener to dig deeper and explore everything this electro-psych duo has to offer, which as we find is quite a lot.

Drawing mostly off of samples, Dirty Art Club brings a hip-hop style of production to the electronic game and produces incredible results. Each track has a strong sense of rhythm that remains anything but static, and that makes it that much easier to lose yourself in this adventure of an EP whose only fault is that ending too early.

Before the 2012 release of Hexes the band dropped a full length Heavy Starch in 2011 and they'll be continuing their streak with yet another EP in 2013. It's only a matter of time until this duo explodes, each year has proved to be more productive for Dirty Art Club and 2013 opens up a plethora of possibilities. Phonosaurus Records out of Quebec already caught on, signing the group last year and releasing Hexes in July, the group was also featured on Vice's The Creator's Project where the band gave a sample-by-sample breakdown of the track "Black Acid", and were featured atop Noisey's "Best Beats of 2012" to end the year on a massive note. With a new frontier before them in 2013 this trip-hop group can take their tunes to unseen heights. Hopefully they make their way towards the eastern part of the state sooner rather than later, as their music would be a fantastic live experience. Filled with deep 808 kicks and spastic percussive rhythms, these smooth beats could take the reigns over a massive dance party that would be foolish to miss out on. Hop on the Dirty Art Club train soon, because I wouldn't be surprised if it takes off this year.

Check out the stellar title track from Hexes below:

Hexes by Dirty Art Club

Ears to the Ground: Libraries

2013-01-05T10:58:00.000-05:00

For the second installment of our new series I've chosen to highlight another band that will be featured on our upcoming compilation. Libraries are a band signed to Grip Tapes that bring an electronic blend of soulful tracks ranging from upbeat remixes to massive originals that boast neck breaking rhythms that are impossible to sit still to. 2012 was a productive year for Libraries, while the group released countless remixes and a strong group of originals, they've been honing their already on point live skills and riding the recent trap wave all the way to the top. Libraries are easily one of my favorite electronic acts in the state, this Wilmington outfit has taken an incredibly melodic approach to the heavy hitting style of club-oriented dance music and crafted electronic tunes that one can listen to with a chest rattling sub whilst dancing your ass off or alone at home with a pair of headphones.

Libraries are meshing the worlds of soulful, funky dance beats with the trilled out trap style of bumping bass and blazing hi-hats, and quite frankly the results are incredibly satisfying. Tracks like the "BYRD$" displays these sentiments perfectly, the band builds off of a strong melodic idea and adds depth through roaring layers of tight percussion and explosive synths. While one track can be a smooth and funk-filled adventure, the band is capable of absolute bangers like 1988, found on their Wilmington Bootlegs, which opens with a fuzzed out analog synth and quickly evolves into a wonderfully expansive track that explores the depths of their musical direction. It's a spastic blend of electronic noise that's been pieced together wonderfully, proving the duos mastery of production as well as composition.

Libraries have great things ahead in 2013, they're only continuing to grow musically with an ever expanding knowledge of electronic composition and their sounds are definitely starting to turn some heads around the state. I hope to catch a Libraries set this year, as their studio sounds have left me awe struck and aching to experience this in the proper setting. Check out their track "BYRD$" below and be sure to look out for their track on The Bottom String Compilation Vol. 1