Or So Sachi Says

Make More Noise (Hometown Heroes Edition)

2013-05-07T09:49:00.001-07:00

AWESOMESAUCE, dear listeners! It's the 50th episode of Make More Noise. To celebrate Sachi Subterranean put together a special 2 hour show featuring some of the best local, indie acts from Delaware, Philadelphia, and the general Mid-Atlantic region. This is the DIY scene that raised her, and shaped her musical tastes. Without these artists and friends, Sachi Subterranean never would have been able to DJ show after show, week after week, for the past two years. Press play and hear a myriad of aural influences from new folk to crust punk to experimental noise to electro pop. Originally aired on KXSC.org, a service of USC.

Make More Noise 50 (Hometown Heroes Edition) by Orsosachisays on Mixcloud

Playlist
Firefly - Travel Songs
Division - Fiance
Quakes - Sam Nobles
House - Thunderhank
Bok Choi - Rick Martel
Sister - Shane Palko
Dolphin Boy - Em McKeever
Don't Be Cruel - Dead Professional
I Wish I Could Lie - Stallions
Been A Long Time - Happy People
Heavy Home - The Spring Standards
Santa Clara - Brujo Magick
Down and Out in Delaware - Dustin Scobell
Way Up North - New Sweden
Rewind - Nathan Robinson
The Base of My Heart - The Hundred Acre Woods
What I Love - The Spinto Band
A Glitch Is A Glitch (NoSirE Mix) - Flying Lotus
Nights In - Nigro
Made Iridescent by a Passing Swan - Sun Airway
Toi Piano - Sacajaweeda
Seedstomper - Larhonda
Bed Bug - Point Breeze
Skygazer - Laika
Dinoye - TRTGA

Old Crow Medicine Show plays the El Rey

2013-05-04T23:40:00.003-07:00

Opening with a rip roaring rendition of "Carry Me Back" the title track of their full-length release last year, Old Crow Medicine Show brought the house down for a sold-out show at the El Rey on Wednesday. The song's title and lyrics reference a tune from an older tradition "Carry Me Back To Old Virginia", which has roots dating back to the 1800s, and was popularized by many famous musicians including Jerry Lee Lewis and Louis Armstrong. These are the musical customs that inspire Old Crow Medicine Show, who reinterpret the sounds of folk long gone to speak to a new generation. In the digital era, Old Crow Medicine Show was discovered in a decidedly unmediated way. Doc Watson heard them busking on the corner where he used to play in Boone, North Carolina, and immediately asked the band to play his music festival. This band doesn't just talk the talk. They walk the walk.

Keeping true to folk traditions, frontman Ketch Secor regaled the audience with local tall tales while the band tuned. He went so far as to tell a story about driving down the Miracle Mile with a beautiful black haired Chicano girl...named Caroline, and as soon as he said her name, and the crowd laughed, the band launched into a song of the same name. The mood was thoroughly uproarious. Who would have known that Angelenos had such an appetite for old timey country music? During the foot-stomping "Mississippi Saturday Night", a single off the latest album, Secor and Chance McCoy wheeled off the original arrangement for a little double fiddle duel. Another song featured a mouth-blistering harmonica solo. If that sounds like something that would suit you, then you would have also appreciated Gill Landry's entire rack of resonator guitars, the upright bass solo, an audience singalong of "This Land Is Your Land", and the mason jar chandeliers that decorated the stage.

Just as the big old string bands of yesteryear would take turns leading songs or introducing members, the six guys that make up OCMS all had at least one chance to bring the crowd to a thunderous applause. This diversity made for a fantastically dynamic show that tackled everything from political songs that ended in a cry to bring the troops home to a George Jones tribute to a special mariachi inspired song complete with accordion to country cover of "American Girl". All that might sound a little crazy, but the authentic, warm, jovial personality and swagger of OCMS smooths everything out into the best time you could ever have on a Wednesday night.

I mostly write positive reviews on here, because I'm too busy for extra negativity. However, I don't always write over-the-ever-loving-glowing-moon reviews. This is a rare exception, because OCMS's live show not only put the biggest smile on my face and left my hands sore from clapping along, but it also pulled my heart strings. Their songs mention some of my favorite places in the world, like the Blue Ridge Mountains, the New River, the Cumberland Gap, Shenandoah, and the roads of North Carolina wreathed in dogwoods and pines. Not only do they sing about them, they capture the soul of soft blue-green mountains that roll on forever wreathed in mist. Several days later, and OCMS's harmonious lyrics are still leaving me homesick for the East coast.

Zion

2013-05-01T10:32:00.001-07:00

Back in December I took a trip to Zion National Park in Utah. Not most ideal season for the park, but certainly less crowed. Though I had to slog through freezing rain and icy snow, it was worth it to capture the way the storm clouds collided with the canyon walls.

Youth Lagoon Plays The El Rey

2013-04-21T17:19:00.000-07:00

Youth Lagoon, a.k.a. Trevor Powers, played the El Rey in Los Angeles this past Wednesday, one stop on a nationwide tour in support of his sophomore release, Wondrous Bughouse. The tour and album are markedly different than Powers' highly praised 2011 debut, but perhaps that's a good thing. While Youth Lagoon began as an introspective bedroom project tinged in adolescent longing, Powers has clearly matured as a musician and begun to explore the world. To achieve this new more intricate sound, Youth Lagoon has expanded to a full band. Consequently, Powers sounds less lonely. Though they played two popular tracks from the first album, "Cannons" and "17", Youth Lagoon mostly stuck to material of their new release.

Pausing between songs, someone in the crowed yelled, "How are you?" And, Trevor Powers pleasantly responded with "I'm good. Thank you for asking. This place is beautiful isn't it?" The audience cheered in appreciation. This was a far cry from the tour of his first release when he toured with just an accompanying guitarist, barely interacted with the audience, and brought sympathetic listeners to tears. While a Youth Lagoon concert is still a beautifully intimate experience, it's become a different kind of intimate, friendly rather than confessional.

These developments worked wonderfully for their new material, which driven by a drum kit thoroughly jammed and exuded all the psychadelic, otherworldly, experimental tones that make Wondrous Bughouse such an interesting album. The performance crescendo to an anthem-like end that left many in the audience with rapt smiles on their face. However, when the full band tackled Powers' earlier solo recordings, the songs ended up sounding like overblown ballads.

All the same, I'm really glad I went to check this tour out. Given Powers tremendous developments as a musician, I'm eagerly anticipating the continued success of his career. Plus, I left in a thoroughly better mood, and picked up a physical copy of Wondrous Bughouse. Basically, going to see Youth Lagoon live is always a good idea.

Make More Noise 049

2013-04-11T15:24:00.000-07:00

Spring is sprung, and the world is blooming with new singles! Check out new music from Bibio, Small Black, Mount Kimbie, Oberhofer, and more. All of these talented artists are releasing highly anticipated albums in the next few weeks. Get excited! It's time for new mixes for sunny strolls and blue skies. Brought to you by KXSC.org and USC.

Make More Noise 049 by Orsosachisays on Mixcloud

Playlist
After the Afterlife - CocoRosie
Made To Stray - Mount Kimbie
Free At Dawn - Small Black
Slyd - !!!
Name In Lights - Little Daylight
Your Life Your Call - Junip
A tout a l'heure - Bibio
Shout It Out - Mikal Cronin
Earplugs - Oberhofer
All The Time - The Strokes
Evil Friends - Portugal. The Man
Never Run Away - Kurt Vile
Sacrilege - Yeah Yeah Yeahs
Out of My League - Fitz and The Tantrums
Let's Go Swimming Wild - Sweet Baboo
Never Wanted Your Love - She & Him

Flume and Para One Play The Echoplex

2013-04-06T19:42:00.001-07:00

Last week, Flume and Para One played super fantastic, utterly groove worthy sets back to back at the Echoplex, thanks to The Echo, FYF & IHC Present. It might have been a Tuesday night, but the show was packed with people ready to party, and they did not leave disappointed.

French electronic producer and DJ, Para One (a.k.a. Jean-Baptiste de Laubier) played a lengthy set showcasing a variety of musical influences. He live remixed tracks from his 2012 full-length Passion, and also played new tracks like "Every Little Thing Remix (feat. Cam'ron, Irfane & Tekilatex)". His ample sampling of 90s hip hop and R&B favorites, especially appealed to this reviewers ears. If you've never heard of Para One, I highly suggest you check him out and drop him into the mix at your next hipster dance party.

Flume's self-titled, debut full-length released on Australian label, Future Classics, last fall made a huge splash. A dynamic album full of danceable hits as well as chill moments, charmed international reviews and fans alike. I wasn't sure what to expect from a Flume (a.k.a. Harley Streton) live performance, but I showed up with a heap load of good vibes and an open mind. What he delivered was far more of a DJ set than an electronic music performance; however, it wasn't formulaic or programed. Just like his album, Flume delivered a dynamic, vibrant, emotive set that captured the crowd's bodies and held them in complete sway. I haven't danced like that in ages, and I had a damn good time. I definitely recommend checking Flume out live when he comes through your town.

Make More Noise 048

2013-04-04T20:36:00.001-07:00

Get down, all the way down, with this Make More Noise set from Sachi Subterranean. Featuring music from KXSC Fest, as well as a ticket giveaway to see Shlohmo and Nite Jewel. Originally aired live on 3/28/2013 on KXSC.org thanks to USC.

Make More Noise 048 by Orsosachisays on Mixcloud

Playlist
When The Night (feat. Jaw) - Para One
Holdin On - Flume
Falling - Haim
Heavenly Bodies - Tamaryn
In The Dark - Nite Jewel
Wen Uuu - Shlohmo
Timesup - NguzuNguzu
True Thrush - Dan Deacon
Natural - Clams Casino
Demon TO Lean On - Wavves
Goatman - Goat
Ghosts and Creatures - Telekinesis
Hey Moon - John Maus
Just Make It Stop - Low

Make More Noise 047

2013-03-24T22:28:00.000-07:00

From electronic to acoustic, Make More Noise spans all sounds to bring you the best new music, and perhaps an artist or two you've never heard before. It's a radio show for listeners with open ears and minds. Hear new singles from James Blake, Junip, and The Knife, before we trade in synths for guitars and settle in with some indie folk goodness from Akron/Family, The Milk Cartoon Kids, and Phosphorescent. Brought to you by KXSC.org and USC.

Make More Noise 047 by Orsosachisays on Mixcloud

Playlist
Pretty Boy (Peaking Lights Remix) - Young Galaxy
Retrograde - James Blake
Line of Fire - Junip
A Tooth for an Eye - The Knife
ProtoVision - Kavinsky
In Two - Blue Hawaii
Until the Morning - Akron/Family
Tanktop - Caroline Smith & The Good Night Sleeps
Don't Wake Me Up - Lianne La Havas
Two Matchsticks - The Wooden Birds
Bright Stars Burning - Hey Marseilles
Snake Eyes - The Milk Carton Kids
Terror In The Canyons (The Wounded Master) - Phosphorescent
From a Window Seat - Dawes

Kale & White Bean Crostini

2013-03-17T13:35:00.000-07:00

I haven't posted an original veg recipe in oodles of ages, and that's practically a crime in certain states where home-cooking is still a prized skill. What can I say? Grad school is eating my soul. However, I did join a CSA since moving to Los Angeles, and they are awesome. All winter long they've been leaving me delicious presents on my front porch, including my all-time favorite winter vegetable: kale. How do I love kale! I couldn't even begin to count the ways. I also love finger snacks and good cheese. If this sounds remotely similar to your tastes in mouth-stuffing, then this recipe is for you. I concocted it based on an amalgamation of several different recipes I found on the interwebs, and made it to treat myself on a rare "me" day. Of course, you can omit the Parmesan cheese to make this dish vegan-friendly. Enjoy!

***Yields 20 Crostini***

Kale & White Bean Crostini with Parmesan
6 tbsp Extra virgin olive oil
2 tbsp Apple cider vinegar
Sea salt
Fresh ground black pepper
1 15oz can of white beans (I recommend checking the ingredients to make sure it’s only white beans and water)
1 Whole wheat or seeded baguette
2 Garlic cloves
1 lb Kale (roughly 1 large bunch)
1/2 c Dry white wine
1/4c Water
2 tbsp Lemon juice
1/2 c Parmesan cheese shavings

In a small bowl whisk together 2 tbsp of extra virgin olive oil and apple cider vinegar. Add sea salt and fresh ground pepper to taste, and whisk again. Drain and rinse the can white beans, and stir into the contents of the bowl. Let sit while you prepare the other items.

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Cut the baguette into 1/2 inch slices at at least a 45 degree angle. Use 2 tbsp of extra virgin olive oil to brush the baguette slices, and let sit.

Add the remaining 2 tbsp of extra virgin olive oil to a skillet. Dice the garlic cloves and add to the skillet. Set the stove burner to the lowest setting and gently warm the oil and garlic. Wash the kale leaves, and tear into 1 to 2 inch pieces, discarding the thicker, tougher ends of the stems that cannot be easily torn.

Put the baguette slices brushed in olive oil on a baking sheet, and bake for 8 minutes, or until lightly toasted a golden brown. Remove and let cool.

While the baguette slices are toasting, add the kale, white white, and water to the skillet. Increase the stove burner heat to a medium temperature, and lightly sautee the kale until it's barely wilted. Reduce heat to low, and stir in the bean mixture from the bowl. Then stir in the lemon juice.

Use a fork to carefully top the baguette slices with the kale and white bean mixture. Then artfully arrange a few Parmesan cheese shavings on top of each crostini. Serve warm.

Make More Noise 046

2013-03-13T23:24:00.002-07:00

Sachi Subterranean takes you on a sonic road trip on this edition of Make More Noise. Take off from the underground lands of electronica, turn right at indie rock, keep cruising nice and easy through soulful sunsets, and then let things get a little weird as you sail through the night under stars, until you finally finish strong with the rising sun. Waxing too metaphorical? Well, more bluntly we move from a Bonobo remix to new music from the Cold War Kids to a celebration of Lianne La Havas' vocal skills, to Youth Lagoon's sophomore triumph. If this mix suits your fancy, listen live on Thursdays from 7 to 8pm PT on KXSC.org, thanks to USC.

Make More Noise 046 by Orsosachisays on Mixcloud

Playlist
Flashback - Uppermost
Beachy Head (Bonobo Mix) - Mechanical Me
Soon It Will Be Cold Enough To Build Fires - Emancipator
Miracle Mile - Cold War Kids
Viento - Tennyson
Have to Pretend - The Cave Singers
Rumble And Sway - Jamie N Commons
No Room For Doubt (feat. Willy Mason) - Lianne La Havas
Without - Shlohmo
Try To Be - Blue Hawaii
I'm Homesick Sittin' Up Here In My Satellite - Doldrums
Mirror Mirror - Suuns
Mute - Youth Lagoon
Lucky Numbers - Generationals
Entertainment - Phoenix
In Haze - Iceage

Bryce Canyon

2013-03-08T02:48:00.000-08:00

I finally made it out to Bryce Canyon National Park over winter break. I drove into Utah long after sunset, and it was beginning to flurry. By the time I made it to the only open campground at the park it was almost midnight and well below zero degrees. I woke up early to find a frosted world iridescent with snowflakes and sunbeams, and ice covering my sleeping bag. In warmer more frequented seasons, Bryce Canyon is stunning, but in the lonesome winter months blanketed in several feet of snow, it achieves even higher levels of breathtaking ethereal glory. Here are the photos I took with my digital point-and-shoot, a Nikon AW-100 specifically designed for harsh conditions. Analog 35mm photos from my Superheadz Golden Half toy camera will be published soon. Also, keep an eye out for a Zion National Park series.

Make More Noise 045

2013-03-06T00:49:00.000-08:00

New indie and electronic music is the bread and butter of Make More Noise with Sachi Subterranean. 2013 has brought a litany of amazing new music from the likes of Atoms For Peace, Phosphorescent, Gold Panda, and Black Rebel Motorcycle Club. Check out the best new releases on this episode Make More Noise. Catch the show live and get the chance to win free tickets to Los Angeles area shows on Thursdays from 7 to 8 pm PT. Brought to you by KXSC.org and USC.

Make More Noise 045 by Orsosachisays on Mixcloud

Playlist
We No Who U R - Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
Judge Jury And Executioner - Atoms For Peace
Careless - Beach Fossils
Never Seen Such Good Things - Devendra Banhart
Snake Eyes - The Milk Carton Kids
Swannanoa - Mount Moriah
Rest In 3-Piece - Salva
Song For Zula - Phosphorescent
Dionysian - Mister Lies
Burnt-Out Car In A Forest - Gold Panda
The Fall - Rhye
Do Yourself A Faver - Jamie Lidell
Electric - Atlas Genius
Holographic Sandcastles - Doldrums
Next Stop - Bleached
Let The Day Begin - Black Rebel Motorcycle Club

Make More Noise 044

2013-02-27T18:22:00.000-08:00

Sachi Subterranean serves up the best new releases from beginning of 2013 in this edition of Make More Noise. From indie to electronica, forget about genres, and just appreciate some fine new tunes from some talented artists. Featuring Foals, Darkstar, The Spinto Band and more. Discover the greatest and the latest on Make More Noise. Airs live on KXSC.org Thursdays from 7 to 8pm PT. Brought to you by USC.

Make More Noise 044 by Orsosachisays on Mixcloud

Playlist
Letter of Intent - Ducktails
Closer - Tegan And Sara
My Number - Foals
Electric - The Men
New Alphabet - Eels
The Woodpile - Frightened Rabbit
Free (The Editorial Me) - Darwin Deez
Breakers - Local Natives
Kingfisher Call Me - The Ruby Suns
Timeaway - Darkstar
So Good At Being In Trouble - Unknown Mortal Orchestra
Shake It Off - The Spinto Band
Love to Get Used - Matt Pond
Holy Roller - Thao & The Get Down Stay Down
Cirrus - Bonobo
Reciprocal - Millionyoung

Line & Circle play The Live Show on KXSC

2013-02-24T14:25:00.002-08:00

Every Friday The Live Show on KXSC broadcasts an artist playing a full set, and then a live interview with them. February 15th, I had the distinct pleasure of hosting Line & Circle on The Live Show. Brought to you by KXSC.org, the independent student-run station of USC.

Line & Circle have been featured on Stereogum, KEXP, Brooklyn Vegan, and KCRW. Here's what Rolling Stone had to say about them: "The nostalgia-heavy lyrics are well-suited to the soaring jangle of this L.A. indie band’s new single – a throwback to the Eighties which sounds kind of like Michael Stipe jamming with Johnny Marr and is every bit as lovely as that suggests."

Listen to the live performance and interview below.

Line & Circle play The Live Show on KXSC by Orsosachisays on Mixcloud

Make More Noise 043 (90s R&B Edition)

2013-02-20T14:44:00.000-08:00

Sachi Subterranean gets a little sensual and kicks it old school on this special Valentine's Day edition of Make More Noise. Whether you're single and in mourning, or have a honey to cuddle up to, as long as you have some awkward memories of middle school dances in the 90s you'll appreciate this set of R&B from the decade that brought you Titanic, Fresh Prince of Bel Air, gangsta rap, slap bracelets and pogs. Thanks to KXSC.org and USC.

Make More Noise 043 (90s R&B Edition) by Orsosachisays on Mixcloud

Playlist
So Into You - Tamia
I Wanna Sex You Up - Color Me Badd
Candy Rain - Soul For Real
Let Me Love You - Mario
Nice & Slow - Usher
Don't Let Go - En Vogue
Back At One - Brian McKnight
Nothing Even Matters feat. D'Angelo - Lauryn Hill
If I Ever Fall In Love - Shai
Right Here (Human Nature Radio Mix) - SWV
I Wanna Know - Joe
So Sick - Ne-Yo
Cupid - 112
They Don't Know - Jon B.
I'll Make Love To You - Boyz II Men
The Light - Common

Make More Noise 042

2013-02-13T16:04:00.002-08:00

Get brutal with this special hardcore edition of Make More Noise. It's an anti-Valentine's playlist filled with bands that throw down hard, in honor of a ticket giveaway to see H2O and Terror live. Hear some of the best hardcore bands from the Philly area, as well as bands that shaped my earlier angsty years. Brought to you by KXSC, a service of USC.

Make More Noise 042 (Hardcore Edition) by Orsosachisays on Mixcloud

Playlist
Ribcage - The Bronx
The World Is Empty - Wrong Answer
Bury The Hatchet - Agitator
Flowermouth (The Leech) - Code Orange Kids
The Worst Of Both Worlds - Backtrack
Guilty By Association - H2O
Keepers of The Faith - Terror
Sadness Comes Home - Converge
The King Is Dead - A Wilhelm Scream
Ebolarama - Every Time I Die
Botchla - Poison The Well
Should Have Stayed in the Shallows - Fear Before The March of Flames
No Exceptions - Floorpunch
Alaska - Between The Buried And Me
Chum Fiesta - Dead To Fall
Dead Weight - Ruiner
Mall-Nutrition - Heavy Heavy Low Low
Bad Luck - Burdens
Warm Blood Rush - Defeater
Moving Unites - One Dead Three Wounded
Divorced - Blacklisted
Corrupted - Doubledealer

Make More Noise 041

2013-02-07T20:45:00.002-08:00

As the sun sets all pink and golden over the rooftops and palm tree silhouettes of Los Angeles, grab your honey and start a sweet makeout sessh to this playlist of emerging singer-songwriters and dance-party-starting DJs. Sachi Subterranean celebrates the season of love on this episode of Make More Noise. Listen live on KXSC.org Thursdays at 7pm PT/10pm ET. Much thanks to USC.

Make More Noise 041 by Orsosachisays on Mixcloud

Playlist
Baby I'm Yours - Breakbot Feat. Irfane
Live Your Life - Yuna
Is Your Love Big Enough? - Lianne La Havas
We Have Everything - Young Galaxy
Night Air - Jamie Woon
Bashful - Kwes.
Home Again - Michael Kiwanuka
Golden Clouds - The Orb Feat. Lee Scratch Perry
Concrete Wall - Zee Avi
Sweater Weather - The Neighbourhood
Crave You - Flight Facilities
Tell Me Anthing - Andy Stott

Make More Noise 040

2013-01-29T21:15:00.000-08:00

We're not even done with January, but 2013 has already brought us oodles of awesome new releases from the likes of Free Energy, Fidlar, Yo La Tengo, and Pantha Du Prince. ARE YOU AS FREAKIN' EXCITED AS I AM, DEAR LISTENERS?!?! Listen to the first episode of Make More Noise with Sachi Subterranean from this new year of fine tuneage to stay up to date of the latest and greatest. Now on at a new time this semester: 7pm PT / 10pm ET. Brought to you by KXSC.org and USC.

Make More Noise 040 by Orsosachisays on Mixcloud

Playlist
Dance All Night - Free Energy
White on White - Fidlar
Little Blimp - The Joy Formidable
Cool Zombie - Adam Ant
I'll Be Around - Yo La Tengo
I Feel In Love With A Feeling - Nightlands
Dyed in the Wool - Widowspeak
Nothing Arrived - Villagers
You Never Need Nobody - The Lone Bellow
In the Afternoon - Pillow Fight
So Many Details - Toro Y Moi
Dance With Me - Ra Ra Riot
Photon - Pantha Du Prince & The Bell Laboratory
Good As New - Vacationer
The Gentle Roar - Niki & The Dove
Locked in Closets - Solange

Tahoe, Mono Lake, and the Sierras

2013-01-24T11:29:00.000-08:00

Over the summer I took a road trip up to Lake Tahoe, via the bay area and wine country. It was my first time to the Tahoe region, and I found it every bit as beautiful as all my friends' gushing reviews would have had me believe. After spending a couple days on the lake, I headed south, driving along the eastern edge of the Sierras. The route took me past salty Mono Lake, and into the desert between Death Valley and Vegas. It was a quality, solid road trip. Here are some photos I snapped along the way.

Joshua Tree in Black & White

2013-01-10T21:22:00.000-08:00

This summer I took an East Coast friend to the desert for the first time, and towards the end of the day we swung back through Joshua Tree National Park. I'm not a huge fan of this park, but the evening clouds billowing up to pillars of light made for excellent photo opportunities. Here's a few shots I got. I decided that processing them in black & white called more attention to the dramatic lighting.

If you'd like to catch my glimpses or the park in color, check out a series I took in the spring with my Superheadz Golden Half Camera: Superheadz Golden Half: Joshua Tree.

Top 50 Albums of 2012 (Pt. 3)

2013-01-03T17:47:00.000-08:00

The final installment of Sachi Subterranean's Top 50 Albums of 2012 countdown, assisted by DJ friends Archeologist Alex and Madame Psychosis (a.k.a. Eric). Hear the key track from each of the top albums of the past year. Tune in for your favorite songs, or perhaps something amazing you may have missed. Brought to you by KXSC.org and USC.

Make More Noise: Top 50 Albums of 2012 (Pt. 3) by Orsosachisays on Mixcloud

Playlist
16. Melt - Young Magic

An album that holds up with surprisingly distinct clarity after months of listening. Rhythmically driven travels through the otherworldly and uncannily familiar, coalesce and dissolve before the listener can quite comprehend them. Take for example, 'Sparkly'.

15. Island Universe Story One - Helado Negro

Experimental electronica born of the cultural melting pot that is southern Florida, where the heat and humidity make tropical plants grow rampant and Latin cultures collide. Helado Negro has found a unique sound by drawing from his hometown surroundings, and this is his most cohesive album yet. Key track: 'Paz a Ti'.

14. Attack On Memory - Cloud Nothings

Somehow resurrects the punk ethos, while simultaneously telling everything that ever came before to fuck off. On one level frontman Dylan Baldi is entirely wallowing in his own shit, and on another level his howling articulates the confusion of growing up in this goddamn recession. Listen to 'No Future/No Past', for some lovely indulgence in antagonistic anthem chanting.

13. The Way We Move - Langhorne Slim & The Law

Slim has been slaying the bango for years, and with this album he's finally getting the attention he deserves. It is an electrifying, unapologetic sounding of what Walt Whitman called "my barbaric yawp". It's ruckus good times, and rambling ballads. Kick things off with the title track, 'The Way We Move'.

12. With Siinai: Heartbreaking Bravery - Moonface

Enigmatic, prolific, origination, indie idol Spencer Krug's latest project. Epic and strange, it serves up quite the feast for thought. Though perhaps no one thinks about Spencer Krug's work as much as Spencer Krug. Still it is an impressive undertaking of an album. Everything begins with the title track, 'Heartbreaking Bravery'.

11. Mixed Emotions - Tanlines

Brooklyn duo serves up tropicalia beats, deep reverby vocals, and samples of summer sounds that irresistibly incite hand-clapping, hip-shaking, and smiles. It's not all ear candy, though. Something about this smacks of enough sincere musicianship to excuse all pop guilt. Get down to 'Real Life'.

10. Nocturne - Wild Nothing

There are a myriad of shoegazing indie outfits making music in the world, but this is the genre at it's perfected best. An album that is sure to become a staple of any collection for years to come, thanks to tracks like 'Shadow'.

9. Oshin - Diiv

The brilliant brain child of frontman Zachary Cole Smith, former member of Beach Fossils. Shadowy and shimmery at the same time with songs that build to crescendos like crashing waves. Especially keen on 'Doused'.

8. Celebration Rock - Japandriods

Anthem rock for the our current era, a little more lo-fi, dirty, and personal than previous eras. Like a primal scream, Japandriods invite us to "yell like hell to the heavens", which is can be a most cathartic exercise. The end of so many drunken nights sounds like 'Fire's Highway'.

7. World You Need A Change of Mind - Kindness

Yanking up the roots of pop music, and weaving them into intricate new patterns as he sees fit, Adam Bainbridge gives us an album that sounds like the most professional mixtape ever made. Plus, it grooves hard with super sexy bass lines and seductive piano chords. Key track: 'House'.

6. I Predict A Graceful Expulsion - Cold Specks

With one of the most soulful voices currently alive, Al Spx evokes the spirits of Allan Lomax recordings to articulate the slings and arrows of her reality. It's an otherworldly album of beautifully illustrated blues. Listen to: 'Winter Solstice'.

5. Come Back As Rain - Good Old War

While Mumford & Sons took over the world this year on only partially deserved hype, this band was quietly crafting an album of true, honest skill in Philadelphia. This is the best of what the new folk wave has to offer: catchy singles, delicate ballads, witty heartfelt lyrics, and flawless vocal harmonies. 'Can't Go Home' showcases a fantastic balance of all these elements.

4. Ekstasis - Julia Holter

Bedroom project and chamber music collide in this intriguing album. Electro noises, strings, and chime-like vocals form abstract notions in songs that often take over six minutes to fully evolve. It is clearly the work of a talented, painstaking musician. 'Fur Felix' is one of the more concise tracks.

3. Shields - Grizzly Bear

Fourth full-length from a highly respected group of musicians, who have come to work together like a well oiled machine that produces nothing but awesomness. This is their most wonderfully detailed album yet, and the achievement is audible, especially on tracks like 'Sleeping Ute'.

2. Lonerism - Tame Impala

On the surface this albums sounds like a jamming retro throwback, but even the most apathetic listener can quickly discern that there's much more going on here. Tame Impala aren't trying to take us to another psychic dimension, they're already there sending musical postcards back. This is an album for our discovery. Listen to 'Feels Like We Only Go Backwards', and try and discern their vibes.

1. An Awesome Wave - Alt-J

This album heralds the future of music. A brilliant debut from a UK quartet that are sure to write music history, if this initial effort is any indication. It is the much fuller realization of what many solo electro DJ/producers are trying to articulate on their own. Songs like 'Tesselate' take their time through swirling beats, spacy vocals, and the perfect amount of silence.

Top 50 Albums of 2012 (Pt. 2)
Top 50 Albums of 2012 (Pt. 1)

Top 50 Albums of 2012 (Pt. 2)

2013-01-02T19:34:00.004-08:00

Part 2 of a 3-part countdown of the top 50 albums of 2012, featuring a key track from each album selected by Sachi Subterranean with loving care for you, dear listener! Forget the rest, listen to the best. Brought to you by KXSC.org and USC.

Make More Noise: Top 50 Albums of 2012 (Pt. 2) by Orsosachisays on Mixcloud

Playlist
33. Mount Moriah - Mount Moriah

Technically a 2011 release on the North Carolina local label, Holidays for Quince, this album gained momentum in 2012 when it was re-released with wider distribution on Merge. It's a fresh, passionate take on Americana from Blue Ridge Mountain natives. Front lady, Heather McEntire's vocals are distinct and heartrending. Key track: 'Lament'.

32. Shy Pursuit - The Spinto Band

Self-recorded in a homemade studio, and self-released, this album is entirely the end result of a band of best friends being themselves, having fun, and challenging each other to make better music. Creative, lighthearted songs like 'Jackhammer' are made for sunny spring afternoons.

31. All of Us, Together - Teen Daze

One of two full-lengths released by this prolific British Columbia electronic artist, truly both deserve to make this list. This was the more upbeat of the two, and came out in time to set the mood of the summer. The other album, Inner Mansions, is more introspective, and probably better, but takes longer to appreciate. For now, float and bob along to 'Late'.

30. All We Love We Leave Behind - Converge

Hands down the best loud rock album of the year. Wonderful to hear something entirely new from a veteran hardcore band, who's seminal album came out over a decade ago. The technical skill, dynamic moods, and bold tone of songs like 'Sadness Comes Home' rewrite this band's legacy.

29. Hallelujah! Don't Bend! Ascend! - Godspeed! You Black Emperor

Mysterious, experimental, anarcho-art, noisemakers of tremendously respected renown in the indie music world quietly released their first album in a decade. Some of this material was quietly debuted on their quiet return to touring. But, all their work speaks volumes. Take time and give 'We Drift Like Worried Fire' your undivided attention when listening.

28. Django Django - Django Django

Like watching a western on acid, this album serves up the best of two seemingly disparate worlds: experimental electro and indie rock. That can sound jarring on first listen, but listeners are quickly drawn into a new sonic world where it all harmoniously fits together. Can't stop listening to 'Default'.

27. Until The Quiet Comes - Flying Lotus

DJ, producer, electronic artist, but most of all enigma, Flying Lotus continues to explore sonic boundaries, while somehow inciting dance parties everywhere. It's hard to say if this album is best appreciated on headphones alone in your bedroom, or remixed at the club. Listen to: 'Tiny Tortures'.

26. Folila - Amadou & Mariam

Afropop super stars finally break into the U.S. market and transcend world music status by featuring TV On The Radio and Theophilus London on select tracks. Polyrythms and blues guitar abound. Key track: 'Oh Amadou'.

25. Beware And Be Grateful - Maps & Atlases

An album that will swiftly have you head bobbing and singing along, but that still smacks of intricate intelligence. Likely to become an indie rock staple in future years, and e band neatly sidestepped the sophomore slump. Favorite track: 'Winter'.

24. Good Kid M.A.A.D. City - Kendrick Lamar

Kendrick Lamar and his Black Hippy collaborators may end up single-handedly reinventing hip hop, by injecting a much need dose of reality. Big balling rap videos from the turn of the last decade were so fake, and we all knew it. This is what growing up in Compton actually sounds like. 'Swimming Pools (Drank)' is the single, and the only radio friendly track.

23. Love Will Prevail - Cult of Youth

One part new wave, one part punk, with both parts tinged in goth aesthetic while lead by acoustic guitar, give this band a unique sound while channeling a variety of vaguely family influences. Plus, live their presence is captivating. Check out 'Golden Age'.

22. The Body Wins - Sarah Jaffe

Singer-songwriter heads in a new direction, bigger, bolder and thicker. No longer a girl with a piano, Sarah Jaffe has matured into a musician on a mission. Flawless, orchestral production polishes this gem of an album to an expect sheen. The title track, 'The Body Wins', is the brightest diamond.

21. Centipede Hz - Animal Collective

Venerable experimental indie rockers continue to defy audience expectations, and their fans love them for it. This album gets added to a quite respectable discography that has already guaranteed their spot as one of the most influential bands of the last decade. 'Wide Eyed' is one of the more accessible tracks.

20. Fear Fun - Father John Misty

An album it seems that no one wanted to like, but everyone feel in love with. Former member of Fleet Foxes, Josh Tillman wrote a novel more than an album about Los Angeles. Songs like 'Hollywood Forever Cemetery Sings' are somehow both lonely and catchy at the same time.

19. A Church That Fits Our Needs - Lost In The Trees

A secular album with a tone like solemn delicate prayers, or an old music box. Listening to it is like taking a walk through snowy woods. This may be this band's opus. Especially love 'Red'.

18. Soft Fall - Sun Airway

Highly anticipated second full-length from Philly synth rockers that paint brilliant sounds scapes with effortless brush strokes. This album was less danceable then their debut, but offered more to contemplate. Bodes well for future work from a band that had a big year opening for M83's world tour. Key track: 'Wild Palms'.

17. 12 bit Blues - Kid Koala

Enchanting re-imaginings and re-contextualizations of vintage blues records mixed and mashed with Kid Koala's signature style. It takes the old and makes it relatable without destroying one ounce of its original essence. Listen to '2 bit Blues', and hear for yourself.

Top 50 Albums of 2012 (Pt. 3)
Top 50 Albums of 2012 (Pt. 1)

Top 50 Albums of 2012 (Pt. 1)

2013-01-01T18:05:00.002-08:00

Make More Noise is proud to present part 1 of a 3 part countdown, featuring 1 song each of Sachi Subterranean's top 50 albums of 2012. It's been a fantastic year for new music, so the competition is stiff and the judging is prone to personal bias. Tune in to hear some of the best tracks of 2012, or catch an artist that may have flown under your radar. Brought to you by KXSC.org and USC.

Make More Noise: Top 50 Albums of 2012 (Pt. 1) by Orsosachisays on Mixcloud

Playlist
50. Beard Wives Denim - Pond

Psychedelic Aussie rockers, featuring members of Tame Impala, debuted with a solid album. Though perhaps not ground breaking, it's consistent good times. Key track: 'Moth Wings.

49. The Temper Trap - The Temper Trap

Self-titled, second full-length may have stumbled a bit in the sophomore slump, but gets an A for effort. Ignore the marketed singles, which are a bit over blown. The true gems on this album are the quieter songs, like 'The Sea Is Calling'.

48. Mirror Gazer - Onuinu

Debut release from Portland based producer fuses a much need dose of funk and disco into hip hop inspired electronica. Undeniably danceable, there's also plenty of space on this album to let your mind wander through the cosmos. Must listen to: 'Always Awkward'.

47. Coexist - The xx

Continued evolution of a highly respected band. Enough said. Favorite song: Angels

46. Gone - Vacationer

The perfect soundtrack for a stay-cation. Turn off your phone, make yourself a margarita sit back and get blissful to tracks, such as 'Trip'. Sure it isn't the most intricate or incendiary music out, but sometimes you just need an aural vacation

45. The Bearer of Bad News - Andy Shauf

Self-released, third album from Canadian singer-songwriter is thick with signature story telling, and pensive moments. Explores a more mature sound and themes, as teenage musings are humbly set aside. Listen to 'You're Out Wasting'.

44. Sun - Cat Power

A powerful surge in a new director for a veteran songstress. Dynamic, intelligent, and catchy it sounds like bold declaration for change for a musician who has notoriously struggled with stage fright. The single is 'Ruin'.

43. In Our Heads - Hot Chip

Fifth full-length, and still getting hipster dance parties started right. Actually, seem to be improving with age. Kick things off with 'How do you do?'

42. Dreams Say View Create Shadow Leads - Dustin Wong

Layers upon intricate layers of loops and sounds characterize the second album from this Baltimore-based artist striking out solo. More than songs, these sound like the aural expression of amorphous ideas. Listen to 'Abstract Horse Slow Motion'.

41. Tiny Prayers - Aaron Embry

Respected session and backup musician, who has worked with the likes of Edward Sharpe and Mumford & Sons, finally releases his own original album. Stunningly unique with soft singsong vocals that fade to spoken confessionals, while making elegant nods to the Americana music tradition. In love with 'Your Heart and Mine'.

40. Carry Me Back - Old Crow Medicine Show

Forget that fake pop slush on CMT written by rhinestone cowboys. This is the best country album of 2012, the kind of music that would make Johnny Cash proud. Thoroughly pleased to see the original lineup reunited and better than ever. Get your hands clapping and feet stomping to 'Mississippi Saturday Night'.

39. I Love You, It's Cool - Bear In Heaven

A hard album to wrap your brain around on first listen, you may still discover new things to appreciate months later. Still, this indie electro outfit seems to incapable of doing wrong. Begin with 'Idle Heart' continue with an open mind.

38. Old World Romance - Sea Wolf

Sleeper hit with lackluster publicity has the potential to get caught in your heart. This isn't an album for sharing. It's one for listening to alone on the kind of day where you don't leave your house. 'Priscilla' pulls heartstrings.

37. Strange Weekend - Porcelain Raft

Globetrotting renaissance man debuts curiously restless, wistful, and hopeful album with lo-fi guitars and bright samples. Excited to see what new sounds the future holds for this artist. Key track: 'Unless You Speak From Your Heart'.

36. Boracay Planet - Blackbird Blackbird

Finally a physical album from this prolific internet sensation. Full of signature sunny sounds and fun samples, these song are more comprehensive then the tracks that went viral several years ago. Perhaps more development and touring in the future? Listen to 'All'.

35. Bear Creek - Brandi Carlile

Thirty-one years old, and already well on her way to legendary status the likes of Patsy Cline and Bonnie Raitt. This album firmly lays another step on the path to greatness. Must hear 'Save Part of Yourself'.

34. Overgrown Path - Chris Cohen

Former member of Deerhoof, releases debut solo effort like a lost treasure trove of delightfully strange, golden sounds. This is clearly an earnest expression of creativity that has been carefully fermenting for several years. Key track: 'Caller No.99'.

Top 50 Albums of 2012 (Pt. 2)
Top 50 Albums of 2012 (Pt. 3)

Sequoia

2012-12-28T12:17:00.000-08:00

A lot of people go to Sequoia National Park to see the trees, some of the largest in the world, but I prefer the mountains. Hiking around the high sierras makes me feel like John Muir or Ansel Adams. I also took the time to head down to the Mineral King area located on the south side of the park. This less frequented area was gorgeous. It might not have had any gigantic sequoias, but it did remind me of Glacier National Park, which was nicknamed the Alps of America. These photos were taken with a Nikon AW100, and lightly touched up.

Down In The Valley 023: Best Americana of 2012 Review

2012-12-21T15:52:00.003-08:00

Mountain Momma reviews some of the best new Americana and folk releases of 2012, including Alabama Shakes, Calexico, and Bowerbirds. Tune in to hear some favorites or catch what you might have missed. DJ Intern Old Man River rounds out the hour with a special guest set of some of his personal favorite country classics. Down In The Valley broadcasts live on KXSC.org, 1560AM Los Angeles, a service of the University of Southern California.

Down In The Valley 023: Best Americana of 2012 Review by Orsosachisays on Mixcloud

Playlist
For LA - Yukon Blonde
Fit Against the Country - Horse Feathers
Lightshow - Plants and Animals
Disappear - Patterson Hood
Never Meant to Love You - Cory Chisel and the Wandering Sons
Now That The Night Has Come - The Lost Brothers
Lay Down - Alberta Cross
Splitter - Calexico
February Seven - The Avett Brothers
Hang Loose - Alabama Shakes
Ho Hey - The Lumineers
In The Yard - Bowerbirds

***Special Guest Set By DJ Intern Old Man River***
Ghost Riders In The Sky - Johnny Cash
Don't Fence Me In - Roy Rogers
1952 Vincent Black Lightning - The Del McCoury Band