Top Albums of 2014

Might as well join the rest of the blog world and post my favorite listens from the last year.  I'm sure there are albums that were released that I didn't even hear so obviously this isn't exhaustive.

No order except for my #1, which also goes onto my list of best albums of all-time:

War on Drugs-Lost in the Dream

The rest:

Beck-Morning Phase
Jungle-Jungle
Sturgill Simpson-Metamodern Sounds in Country Music
Jenny Lewis-The Vogager
Broken Bells-After the Disco
Real Estate-Atlas

The new ones from Spoon, Ryan Adams, First Aid Kit, and TV on the Radio are honorable mentions as I haven't listened to them as much as the list above.  They'll probably grow on me with further listens.

ACL 2014: Links

For a quick rundown of the artists along with a song (if you want to listen), here is a list of the Friday highlights.  Start from the bottom and scroll up:

http://goo.gl/kzZzqc

When you're done with that page click on this for the rest of Saturday and Sunday.  Again, go from bottom to top:

http://goo.gl/6b4gPG

I also created a playlist in Soundcloud of those and many others playing if you want to sample a few:

http://goo.gl/pi06RZ

ACL 2014: Suggested schedule

Here are my first choices for each day.  I'll focus on the 11am-6pm bands since everyone should know Beck and Outkast, etc.   This just means I want to check out the band but doesn't mean I won't wander over to check out another band.  

My plan is to arrive early and leave early.  The early bands are really good and the crowds are thin.  Plus, it hasn't warmed up yet.  Arriving late is for amateurs.

Friday:

11:30 Young and Sick

12:15 Broods

1pm Preatures

1:15 Temples

2pm Robert Ellis

2:15 Jimmy Cliff

3:15 Lake Street Dive

4:15 Chvrches or Paulo Nutini

5:15  St, Vincent probably

Saturday

11:30 Chain Gang of 1974

12:30 Spanish Gold

1:00 Benjamin Booker

1:30 Rosebuds (but Mac DeMarco is supposed to be good)

2:30 ? (wish they moved Mac DeMarco to this slot)

3:30 Polica

4:30 Bully

5:30 Lucius 

Sunday

11:30 Haerts 

12:15 Mo

1pm Reuben and the Dark

2pm Nikki Lane, then some of Parker Millsap.  Both really solid choices.

3pm  Real Estate, but Cults is good, too.

4pm  Imelda May I guess. Again, wish Cults was here.

5pm  Phantogram (since we just saw Jenny Lewis)

ACL 2014: Broods

Friday at 12:15pm.  Hozier cancelled which has caused some schedule changes as well as the addition of a new band.  This is a brother-sister duo from New Zealand that apparently is blowing up everywhere but here.  So far.  Kind of dream/Euro pop.  This song reminds me a little of Chvrches.  They have another one called "Coattails" that is nice, too.  I think this would be my choice for that time slot.

My picks for the weekend coming soon.


Bridges

ACL 2014: The Wans

Sunday at 4pm on the BMI stage.  This is a trio out of Nashville.  They were described as a mix of Led Zeppelin and Nirvana.  Of the few songs I've heard that's a pretty good description.  This one is on the bluesy Led Zep side with a mix of old Black Keys.  The other songs I heard are more on the Nirvana side.

Want You

ACL 2014: Imelda May

Sunday at 4pm in the Zilker tent.  I figure we'll do Real Estate at 3pm (at the RetailMeNot stage!) then we have a few choices at 4pm.  First up is a singer from Ireland that plays rockabilly.  Reminds me of Sarah Borges.

Johnny's Got A Boom Boom

ACL 2014: Parker Millsap

Sunday at 2:15pm.  Playing the Zilker tent is a 21 year-old singer-songwriter from Oklahoma.  He's got quite a PR team as his name was all over before his first album was even out.  He's been on World Cafe and KEXP and is scheduled to perform at the Americana Music Festival in Nashville. Expect big things.

A little bit of a mix between Jason Isbell and Ryan Bingham.

Truck Stop Gospel

ACL 2014: Kongos

Sunday at 2:00.  For informational purposes only.  There's no way I'm missing Nikki Lane.  This is a band of 4 brothers originally from South Africa but now residing in Phoenix.  This was their big hit.  Not my thing.

Come With Me Now

ACL 2014: Miniature Tigers

Sunday at 1:00pm.  Option 2 for this timeslot.  This is a band out of Brooklyn that has 4 albums out and has been around since 2006.  Indie pop/synth.  They've toured with fun. and Ben Folds.

Doesn't do much for me.

Used to Be the Shit

ACL 2014: Reuben and the Dark

Sunday at 1:00pm.  This is the first time I've heard this band.  It's a five-piece from Calgary led by Reuben Bulluck and including his brother Distance.  Their father was a roaming preacher so they moved around a lot.  An interesting childhood I'm sure.

Very similar to Mumford and Sons.  I little more rock in it, though.

Rolling Stone

ACL 2014: Colony House

Also on Sunday at 12:15 is a band from Franklin/Nashville Tennessee.  It's a trio of two brothers and a friend.  They are on Descendant Records which is part of Sony so they have major label backing.  I'm sure we'll hear more from them.

Kind of poppy sound to this one.  Not really my thing but I'm sure it's a mainstay on KGSR.

Silhouettes 

ACL 2014: The Districts

Sunday at 12:15.  Depending on the mood we may want to give these guys another try.  We saw them at SX San Jose during SXSW but I didn't get much out of it.  I think it was because we were at the back and it was packed.  They are getting lots of love from the press.  Read this glowing review from The Guardian that compares them to Little Feat, the Black Keys and Kings of Leon.

Roots Americana rock.  I shared Funeral Beds (which does remind me of Kings of Leon) for the SXSW preview so here's another song that's a little more rocking.

Rocking Chair

ACL 2014: MØ

Sunday 12:15pm.  Danish dance/pop singer.  I saw her at SXSW in 2013 and thought she put on a cool show.  It was only her on stage with an ipod and a projector flashing images and movies on the screen behind her.  Despite the minimalist nature it was entrancing.  She danced all over the stage and probably sweated off 10 pounds.

This is her big song I guess.  Tons of remixes but I can't find the original on Soundcloud so here's the Youtube video.

Don't Wanna Dance




Edit: Found another cool song with video.

Pilgrim

ACL 2014: Nostalghia

Sunday 11:30am.  Playing opposite Haerts on the RetailMeNot stage is a California-Iranian singer that should be a good opener for Lorde.  Whereas Lorde uses Goth-style to sing pop songs, this is the real thing.

She hasn't really put anything out in a couple years but she does sing on a Seven Lions song.  I'd describe this as IDM more than Goth but we're splitting hairs.  Would fit right in on Rocket Radio on KNON.  This would be right up my alley in my younger days.

I'll include one of her own songs as well.  Siouxsie would be proud.

Cool for Chaos That scream is intense.  I dig this one.

Serpent of Old-Seven Lions song

ACL 2014: Haerts

Sunday 11:30am.  I can't believe this band is slotted for the dreaded Sunday morning kickoff.  In 2012 Alt-J was accorded that "honor".  Why hide a great band at a time when nobody will be there?  I guess it's a reward for the die-hard festival people who show up early.  This is great Sunday morning wake-up music, too.

I saw these guys at SXSW in 2013 at Cedar Street and they were excellent.  A throwback 70s/80s sound, with a little ABBA, a little Berlin.  They're based in Brooklyn but members are from Germany, England, and the U.S.  I'm not sure why they haven't taken off yet.  There's certainly lots of buzz about them.

Definitely worth waking up early to see them.  I'm going to post three songs to convince you.

Call My Name

Wings

All the Days

ACL 2014: Beat Connection

Saturday 6:30pm.  Last band preview for Saturday.  This is a Seattle electro-pop band playing on the BMI stage.  This song reminds me a little of Prince but most of their music is more electro from what I've read.

Hesitation

ACL 2014: Bully

Saturday 4:30pm.  We're getting to the big acts now so not much more to cover for Saturday.  Playing in this timeslot is Interpol and Head and the Heart so we'll most likely choose one of them.  If we want to avoid the big crowds there's this trio from Nashville on the BMI stage.

I like this song.  Reminds me a little of Breeders, or a female-led Replacements.  They only have an EP out but have already played Bonnaroo and are now playing ACL.  Not a bad start.

Brainfreeze

ACL 2014: Rey Pila

Saturday at 2:30pm.  Another band from Mexico City but they reside in NYC now.  They are signed to Julian Casablanca's label and just toured with Albert Hammond, Jr.  They've also toured with TV on the Radio.  Here's a longer article on them.

This song is very glam 80s.  Reminds me of Roxy Music mixed with Bowie.  They're playing the small BMI stage at the same time as Trombone Shorty and Rebelution.

Alexander

ACL 2014: Falls

Saturday at 2:00pm.  This is probably my choice.  It's a duo from Sydney.  They've toured with Of Monsters and Men and Lumineers.  This is the only song I could find.  Very sweet.


Home

ACL 2014 Zoé

Saturday at 1:30 opposite Mac DeMarco is an alt-rock band from Mexico City.  Here's a song and a video.  53 Million views! I guess they're pretty popular in Latin America.

Labios Rotos

ACL 2014: Mac DeMarco

Saturday 1:30pm.  The next couple hours are a crapshoot.  I'll throw up some choices but none really stick out until Polica at 3:30.

One option is Canadian singer-songwriter Mac DeMarco.  His latest album has been nominated for the Polaris Prize.  Pitchfork likes him and apparently he's pretty well-regarded.  I think he's going for the John Lennon "Double Fantasy" era sound on this song.

Passing Out Pieces

ACL 2014: Empires

Saturday 12:30pm.  Post-punk band out of Chicago.  On the same stage as Interpol.  Probably a good opening act.  They're on opposite Spanish Gold and Benjamin Booker so I doubt we'll make it to see them.


How Good Does It Feel? 

ACL 2014: The Chain Gang of 1974

Saturday 11:30am. This is opposite The Rosebuds so for informational purposes only.  Playing the RetailMeNot stage, it's the moniker of Kamtin Mohager, a musician/DJ from San Jose/Hawaii/Denver who now resides in L.A.

This song is straight out of the '80s.  It's what got him booked for ACL.

Sleepwalking

ACL 2014: Benjamin Booker

Saturday 1:00pm.  I'm going a little out of order since his album is streaming on NPR and will be gone next week when the album goes on sale.  Listen now before it goes away.

The hype is huge for this release.  Benjamin Booker is a 22 year-old based in New Orleans that cites T. Rex among his influences.  The album was produced by Andrija Tokic who also produced Alabama Shakes and Hurray for the Riff Raff. He's already played SXSW, Letterman, Newpork Folk, and Lollapalooza.  Below is his performance on Conan from this week.  He's also toured with Jack White.

Comparisons are to early Black Keys but I hear Replacements as well, especially on "Have You Seen My Son" below.  His guitar playing reminds me of Gary Clark, Jr.  The album is really good.  He's playing opposite Spanish Gold but I think we need to see him now.

Violent Shiver

ACL 2014: The Rosebuds

Saturday 11:30am.  One of the bands I can't wait to see.  I saw them at SXSW in 2007 for the Merge Records showcase at Antone's and was really impressed.  It's a duo from North Carolina.  Their new album was produced by Justin Vernon.  Ivan Howard was also in Gayngs with Vernon.

I know it's early but all the good bands I want to see are early this year.  We can leave early on Saturday.

This is off their new album. From Soundcloud: "Featuring Vernon on guitar and synths—as well as Bon Iver drummer Matt McCaughan and Sylvan Esso's Nick Sanborn on bass, both longtime pals and cohorts of the Rosebuds".  I wonder if Vernon will be playing guitar at ACL.

In My Teeth

ACL 2014: Future Unlimited

Friday 6:15pm.  We're at the Friday time-slots where we know all the bands playing.  The only two left that I wasn't familiar with are Blackberry Smoke, a country-rock band in the Lynyrd Skynyrd style, and Future Unlimited, an electronic pop duo out of Nashville.

Here's a song from Future Unlimited.  Very 80s with a little Cut Copy style.  It's this or Ozomatli. Most likely Ozomatli.

Lightweight Eyes

ACL 2014: Ana Tijoux

Friday at 4:!5 has Chvrches on one big stage and Paolo Nutini on the other.  Nashville-based hip-hop/pop band The Lonely Biscuits plays the BMI stage.  They won the MTVu Woody Award as an up-and-coming band and their song "Chasing Echoes" isn't bad.  It's on my ACL2014 Soundcloud playlist (on the sidebar).  I'd still rather see the other bands in this timeslot, though.

I'm not sure I want to fight the chaos to see Chvrches and since we've seen them recently maybe it would be worth it to check out the act playing in the tent: Ana Tijoux.  She's a French-Chilean Latin Pop/hip-hop musician.  NPR and World Cafe seem to like her.  She has played SXSW a couple times, including this year, and has had success touring the states.

This song is played on Episode 5 of Season 4 of "Breaking Bad".  We just finished episode 2 of that season so only 3 more episodes.  We'll have to listen for it.

1977

ACL 2014: Hozier

Friday 3:15pm. Irish gospel/Americana musician.  This song is really fucking good.  Reminds me of old Elton John.  Lots expected from this guy.  He played Newport Folk and Billboard said it was the #7 best show, ahead of Lucius.  Damn.  We should check him out.

Bleachers is the other band playing.  This is a side project of the guitarist from fun. Sounds just like them.  They're on the stage near Lake Street Dive so the sound will bleed through.  All the tweens and teens will also be crossing from Capital Cities to Bleachers as well. What bad scheduling.

Update: need to add the video.  It provides visuals for the lyrics.  Over 6M views on Youtube. Good.


Take Me To Church

ACL 2014: Lake Street Dive

Friday 3:15.  Speaking of the Colbert bump.  This band played SXSW in 2013 (my preview and another song here.) but didn't take off until playing his show about 6 months ago.  Since then they've been on Ellen, played Bonnaroo, Telluride and were scooped up to play ACL.

Their music is mellow jazz/pop/lounge.  This is a cover of the Jackson 5 song that has gotten some airplay.

I Want You Back

ACL 2014: Jon Batiste and Stay Human

Friday 2:15pm.  The legend Jimmy Cliff is playing in this time slot with MGMT Capital Cities on the other big stage.  Playing in the tent is the New Orleans-raised member of the Batiste jazz family heritage, Julliard trained renaissance man Jon Batiste.  He and his band were on the Colbert Report last week so let's see if he gets the Colbert bump.  His performance on the show was pretty cool, with the band leaving the building and performing on the streets of NYC.  Worth watching (below.)

A mix of jazz, funk, soul.  Could be quite a party in the tent.


Express Yourself

The Colbert Report
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ACL 2014: Robert Ellis

Friday 2:00pm.  Lake Jackson/Houston and now Nashville-based singer-songwriter.  He just played Blues on the Green but we missed that one.  I like this song.  Reminds me a little of Ryan Adams mixed in with Jay Farrar.  He's on New West Records.

Only Lies

ACL 2014: Temples

Friday 1:15pm.  Another British band.  Labeled as psychedelic rock/glam rock.  KUTX has been playing their stuff lately.  This song reminds me of Tame Impala.  I'd like to check them out.  The other options at this time are two local Austin bands: The Jones Family Singers and Saints of Valory.

Mesmerize

ACL 2014: The Preatures

Friday 1:00 PM at Austin Ventures Stage.  This band from Sydney was here for SXSW.  In my preview I thought they sounded like old Prince.  This song is the same one I posted back then and it has been getting lots of radio airplay since.  I haven't listened to any of their other stuff but I really like this.

Is This How You Feel?

ACL 2014: James Bay

Friday at 12:15.  The next young singer-songwriter out of the UK after Ed Sheeran and Jake Bugg is James Bay. He's already opened for the Rolling Stones and he's only 22.  Apparently he's pretty good live so we should probably make an effort to check him out.

Let it Go

ACL 2014: Catfish and the Bottlemen

Playing at 12:15 on the BMI stage is a pretty rocking band out of Wales.  This song starts off like Phoenix but gets heavier as it goes.  They have another song called "Pacifier" that reminds me of Kings of Leon.  So I guess it's a kind of derivative indie rock sound.  May be worth checking out for a few songs.

Kathleen

ACL 2014: Black Pistol Fire

Playing at noon on Friday on the always superb Austin Ventures stage is a band originally from Canada but now residing in Austin.  Whenever I delude myself thinking I'm a music expert I get put in my place when I discover that this band has been in Austin since 2009.

This is a blues rock duo that brings to mind early Black Keys.  They're playing Bonnaroo and ACL this year so their stature is rising fast.  I guess we should check them out.  Better late than never.

Suffocation Blues

ACL 2014: Young & Sick

Also playing at 11:30 on Friday is the moniker of Dutch artist Nick Van Hofwegen, who now resides in L.A. A little bit of synth-pop/soul/R&B.  He played quite a few shows at SXSW, including opening for Foster the People at the free show at Butler Park.  He also played Coachella.

The buzz-factor is very high.  Expect big things from this guy.

Heartache Fetish

ACL 2014: Night Terrors of 1927

The time schedules are out (via the mobile app.  Still waiting for website to update).  Therefore, its time to start the countdown.  I'll go from Friday morning to Sunday night but will skip the big bands in favor of the maybe lesser-known bands.  I don't think I need to post a preview of Pearl Jam.

First up at 11:30 on Friday on the RetailMeNot stage (woohoo!) is a band out of L.A.  It happens to consist of Blake Sennett of the now defunct Rilo Kiley.  (I wonder if he and Jenny Lewis are on speaking terms).  It also consists of Jarrod Gorbel from the Honorary Title.  They just have an EP out but based on their resumes they get a slot at ACL.

This is a nice pop tune.

Dust and Bones

ACL 2014: Jenny Lewis

I'm waiting for the time schedule to come out before starting the previews for this year but this couldn't wait.  Jenny Lewis' new album is streaming on NPR this week so listen before it goes on sale.  Produced by Ryan Adams with some help from Beck.  Jenny Lewis can do nothing wrong in my book so I'm probably not the best person to give an impartial review.  Listen and decide for yourself:

The Voyager

SXSW 2014: Post-mortem

I didn't write this but he hit the nail on the head re: "journalists" and the all the whining about SXSW:

"In 2014 there seems to be a consistent theme as I move from site to site, piece to piece.  For every excited review of a life-affirming new discovery, there are tales of self-imposed misery from journalists and music industry heads overwhelmed by the whole SXSW experience.  For the latter, I have a few words to share.  In short – you are failing us."

The whole thing is worth a read.

Get in Line Ahead of Me – A SXSW Editorial

SXSW 2014: Wrapup

Best in Show (non-Willie category): Lucius.  Mesmerizing. Must-see again.

Much better live than expected: Ages and Ages

Most likely to succeed: Jamestown Revival

Overenders Award: Lukas Nelson

Underenders Award: Clear Plastic Masks

Most provocative outfit: Nikki Lane

Best tribute to SXSW victims: Sons of Fathers

The rundown:

(p)=part of the set

Wednesday

@Lambert's
Spanish Gold

@Gingerman
Future Monarchs

@Mellow Johnny's
Hurray for the Riff Raff

@Brew Exchange
The Griswalds
Black Taxi

@Mellow Johnny's
Yellow Ostrich

@Austin Ale House
Della Mae

@Dogwood
Ian Moore (p)
Billy Joe Shaver

@Haven
Glass Animals
Kins
Jamestown Revival

Thursday

@Heartbreaker Banquet
Insects vs. Robots (Jam in the Van)
Sons of Fathers
Elle King
Wild Feathers
Nikki Lane
Clear Plastic Masks
Felice Brothers
Lucius
J. Roddy Walston
Shovels and Rope
Lukas Nelson
Willie Nelson & Family

Friday

@Home Slice
Gossling

@Frontgate
St. Paul and the Broken Bones
Syd Arthur

@Home Slice
Little Hurricane
sivu (p)

@San Jose
Hooray for the Riff Raff (p)

@Yard Dog
Lydia Loveless (p)

@St. Vincent de Paul
John Fullbright
The Mastersons
My Jerusalem
Washed Out (p from Town Lake)

Saturday

@Home Slice
Snapping Chowsky

@San Jose
The Districts

(T.Hardy Morris playing Home Slice but we were outside talking)

@Snack Bar
San Saba County

@San Jose
San Fermin

@St. Vincent de Paul
Roxy Roca
Sarah Borges
Drivin' and Cryin'

@Home Slice
Ages and Ages
The Octopus Project

SXSW 2014: Wednesday

Here's what I'm thinking for tomorrow's shows:  mainly stay around the West side: Lamberts, Mellow Johnny's, Dogwood, Gingerman, Waterloo during the day.  Parish/Haven/Tap Room at night.

If I get motivated I may head to the Four Seasons for the KUTX shows: Typhoon at 9 and Rodney Crowell at 10.

At noon is the C3 day party at Lambert's but they don't have the set times listed so I'm not sure which band will start.  We may have to walk over to see the list.  San Fermin is listed first.

Here is my day schedule.  I have the shows at Weather Up listed but I doubt I'll get over there.

As for the night shows, I'd say there are three options depending on what you think.  Here's the link to the bands by venue

One option is the Parish which is mostly electronic indie pop:  Claire,  Parade of Lights, the Kooks, Lemaitre.

Another option if we can get in is the KCRW show at Haven.  Glass Animals, Kins, Jamestown Revival, Sam Smith

The third option is the Americana/alt-country/folk showcase by Single Lock Records: Dan Dyer, Donnie Fritts, the Bear, St. Paul and the Broken Bones, etc.  It's at the Tap Room.

SXSW 2014: San Fermin

Also playing at San Jose Saturday is this orchestral pop band started by a Yale graduate.  Here's the whole story.    In that article/interview he mentions comparisons to Sufjan Stevens, The National, Dirty Projectors, as well as Paul Simon and the Beatles "Abbey Road".  Quite a mix.  Could be interesting.

Sonsick

SXSW 2014: Cody ChestnuTT

Also on Saturday is SxSanJose, which always has good bands.  Syd Arthur, The Districts, and this soul singer from Atlanta.  He's compared to Al Green but this song reminds me of Marvin Gaye.  He also has a song out featuring Gary Clark, Jr.  Maybe he'll be there.

That's Still Mama

SXSW 2014: Ages and Ages

I'll finish up the Music by the Slice previews with this band out of Portland.  Seems pretty good.  Their second album is coming out March 25th.  This is on it.  They have another song called Diversionary (Do the Right Thing) that is getting more hype but I like this one better.

Playing before these guys is one of my favorites, Roadkill Ghost Choir, and afterward is Austin's-own The Octopus Project.  Two killer bands.

I See More

SXSW 2014: Sonny Knight and the Lakers

Time to start the party.  Some musicians from Minneapolis to get the people dancing.  Another band following in the footsteps of the funk revival spawned by the success of Sharon Jones and the Dap Kings.  That's a good thing.

Hey Girl

SXSW 2014: Saint Rich

Up next on Saturday is a band out of New Jersey signed to Merge Records.  Glam rock style compared to T Rex/Bowie/Eno.  This guy has a review of their album and he likes it.  Says there's some Kinks to it, too.  May be worth checking out.

Officer

SXSW 2014: The Pack A.D.

Playing Home Slice Friday at 2:40 is a female duo from Vancouver that plays grunge blues/rock a la the White Stripes.  Loud guitars after T. Hardy Morris' mellow Americana.  This is off their new album that came out in January.

Battering Ram

SXSW 2014: T. Hardy Morris

Next up is a solo project from Athens, GA-based T. Hardy Morris from Dead Confederate (and Diamond Rugs).  Twang and tumbleweed is how Paste described his debut album.  Should be a good alt-country set.

OK Corral

No embedding available.

SXSW 2014: Lawrence Rothman

Next up is someone that just popped on the scene.  Now based in LA, he has opened for Sam Smith and shares a little of the same sound: dance/soul/pop.  Apparently his show is worth checking out, according to Brooklyn Vegan.

This song is a little bit Sade, a little bit Communards, and something else.  Pretty good.

#1 All Time Low

SXSW 2014: Avi Buffalo

On to the Saturday Music by the Slice day party, sponsored by RetailMeNot.  First up is Avi Buffalo, an indie-pop band out of Long Beach.  They've been around for a few years and haven't put out an album since 2010 but one should be coming out soon.  I assume that's why they're here.

This is a nice pop song.  Reminds me of the Shins.

What's In It For

SXSW 2014: EMA

I doubt we'll get to see this as none of her shows fit our schedule but this song is pretty damn cool.  EMA is the moniker of Erika Anderson.  She's from South Dakota.  I'm sure there are lots of goths there.

Here's where shes playing during SXSW:

Sat, March 8 - Tumblr @ Mohawk (8:45 PM)
----
Wed, March 12 - Under The Radar @ Flamingo Cantina (5:00 PM)
----
Thurs, March 13 - Stereogum @ House Of Vans (4:00 PM)
----
Fri, March 14 - Pitchfork @ Central Presbyterian Church (7:20 PM)
----
Sat, March 15 - Moog @ Elysium (11:30 PM)

That's the A-list of indie cred.  Oh, her label is Matador.  So she's got that going for her, which is nice.

This reminds me of my younger years.  Elysium is a perfect place for this show.

Satellites

SXSW 2014: Splashh

One more band on the Friday Home Slice bill.  KCRW introduces them pretty well:

"The rest of the album is a fuzzy throwback to 90’s grunge, but decidedly dreamier. Kind of like a male version of Best Coast combined with a poppier version of Wavves.

The project is from Kiwi Sasha Carlson (guitar/singer) and Aussie Toto Vivian, who crafted their shoe-gazy poppy songs during a summer spent in Byron Bay.  “Comfort” is out now in the U.S. via Brooklyn indie Kanine Records."

They also list London as one of their locations.  UK/Australia/NZ roots.

This song is pretty good.

All I Want to Do

SXSW 2014: Sivu

Here's another act playing the Friday Home Slice Show. Lots of hype precedes this 24-year old from Cambridge.  Expectations are high.  Signed to Atlantic Records and helped by Alt-J's producer.  More indie-pop.  This is a pretty good song.

After his set Solander plays, who I previewed earlier and for SXSW 2012.

I Lost Myself

SXSW 2014: Mirah

Also on the Friday Home Slice bill is Gossling at 12:10, who I previewed earlier with a really good song.  After that is Mirah, a singer-songwriter out of Brooklyn.  She was at SXSW in 2009 and has also toured with Thao Nguyen as Thao and Mirah.  She has a new album coming out in May.  This is on it.

Oxen Hope

SXSW 2014: The Casket Girls

Another Friday party is Pizza Music by the Slice at Home Slice (sponsored by RetailMeNot!).  I plan to go there Saturday for sure but if you want we can go for awhile Friday, too.

This band plays at 2:40 and has been getting some buzz.  It's a trio from Savannah, Georgia which includes 2 sisters on vocals.  Dream-pop.

Holding You Back

SXSW 2014: Wet

Continuing with the Friday day parties, here's one we'd need to get to early and stay all day.  It's the Windish Agency party at the Mohawk, which always has good bands.  This year is no exception: Phantogram, Lee Fields and the Expressions, and Jungle, to name a few.  It also has Tove Lo, who I previewed earlier.

This band is a trio out of NYC.  Another indie-pop band with a sound you'd say is just my type.

You're the Best

SXSW 2014: The Strypes

Not far from Rainey St. at the Palm Door by the Convention Center is another day party with some good bands.  This one is the "Next Big Thing" coming out of the U.K.  The hype is huge.  A bunch of kids that wowed Elton John and have signed with Mercury Records.

Jake Bugg is channeling the Beatles so I guess we need the next Rolling Stones.  Here they are.

Got Love if You Want It

SXSW 2014: Sylvan Esso

Another electronic-focused band (at least on this song) playing the Blackheart on Friday is a duo comprised of a singer from Mountain Man (who we saw at Buffalo Billiards during SXSW 2010) and a musician from Megafaun.

This is a nice mellow song.

Coffee

SXSW 2014: Public Service Broadcasting

Since I'm getting complaints from my loyal reader that I'm not posting enough here you go. I'll cover a few things going on Friday.  It seems to work best on Friday and Saturday to concentrate on one area and just bar hop around there instead of trying to cover a lot of ground.  One option for Friday is the Rainey Street area.

This band is playing Blackheart along with Bob Mould, Wye Oak, Speedy Ortiz, and Eagulls.  Most of the rest are more rock-oriented but this band is electronic-focused.  It's a duo out of London.  Their Wikipedia page states: "They take samples from old public information films, archive footage and propaganda material, attempting to 'teach the lessons of the past through the music of the future.'"  This song teaches us about Everest.

Reminds me of old M83, or Air.  Pretty cool I think.  Nice mellow start to the day.

Everest

SXSW 2014: Lucius

Moving on to Thursday I assume we'll be going to the Heartbreaker Banquet.  I'm really excited to see Hooray for the Riff Raff, who play the Chapel Stage.  We'll need to get in line early to see them.

I'll cover some of the newer bands first.  Lucius is an indie-pop band with two female lead-singers.  They formed in Boston but are now in Brooklyn.  They were in town for a sold out show in January at the Parish.

This is a nice song.  I'll embed the video of another song, "Go Home", which shows their range.

Until We Get There

SXSW 2014: Speedy Ortiz

Going for the "most SXSW shows in a week" award is a band out of Northampton, MA.  They're playing everywhere it seems.  The first chance to see them is at Waterloo Records on Wednesday, which also has Hospitality playing right after them.

Kind of a more mainstream Pixies sound.

American Horror

SXSW 2014: Tove Lo

Another potential pop star.  She's from Sweden.  Playing the Spotify House Tuesday and the Windish Agency party at the Mohawk on Friday.

Jungle and Future Islands are also playing Spotify House Tuesday.

Habits

SXSW 2014: Jetta

Time to start planning for the day parties.  First up is Monday (yep, they're starting early this year).  Spotify House has bands every day and most have major label exposure.  Jetta is a Liverpool-born, London-based future pop star.  She's also playing the Filter Party at Clive Bar and the Universal Music party at the Palm Door on 6th (formerly The Stage on 6th and the Radio Room and ...)  All the big gigs.

Feels Like Coming Home

SXSW 2014: Pony Boy

The other choice for Friday night is probably the most-likely option.  It's at the Creekside at the Hilton Garden Inn.  All the bands are Americana/country/folk.  Probably a good mellow choice since we'll be close to exhaustion by Friday night.  Kristy Kruger is on the bill and this band plays after her.

Pony Boy is the moniker of L.A. based Marchelle Bradanini.  I like this song.

One Man Show

SXSW 2014: Woman's Hour

Also on the Friday Red Eye Fly showcase is another band out of the UK.  Light indie-pop sound.  This song is wonderful.

Her Ghost

SXSW 2014: Tomas Barfod

Probably the best showcase on Friday is the Secretly Canadian Records show at Red Eyed Fly.  Getting into any venue along Red River on Friday is a challenge, though.

First up is Tomas Barfod from Copenhagen.  Electronic/dance beats.

Pulsing

SXSW 2014: Bear's Den

Moving on to the Friday showcases I'll start with the one at St. David's. It has Tennis, Sam Smith, and Vance Joy.  The opening band is out of London.  They've opened for Mumford and Sons.  Good Americana/Folk sound.

Pompeii

SXSW 2014: Promised Land Sound

Thursday has a really good showcase at Lambert's.   First up is the Barr Brothers who we saw at Mellow Johnny's a couple years ago.  The showcase also has Jessica Lea Mayfield but she doesn't play until midnight. I think we'll have to see her at a day party.

Playing at 9pm is a band out of Nashville.  They are on Jack White's Third Man Records.  This song is really good.  Reminds me of Son Volt mixed with Gram Parsons.

Fadin' Fast

SXSW 2014: Sam Smith

Another act playing the KCRW showcase on Wednesday is probably going to be the biggest breakout. He won the BBC Sound of 2014 poll and has exploded in the U.K.  This song wasn't released until Feb. 16th but it has 1.5M listens on Soundcloud.  His album doesn't even come out until May 26th, on Capitol Records.

Suffice it to say, he's going to be huge.

Money on My Mind

SXSW 2014: The Bear

One more act for Wednesday at the Tap Room.  The Bear is fronted by a husband and wife but apparently also includes Ben Tanner from Alabama Shakes.  Upon further investigation Single Lock Records was formed by Tanner and Civil Wars' John Paul White.  That's some heavy indie-cred.

There's nothing on Soundcloud for The Bear so here's a video.  Reminds me of Alabama Shakes.

I Want

SXSW 2014: Belle Adair

Also at the Tap Room on Wednesday is a trio also out of Muscle Shoals.  Folky-rock/pop.  I'm having a hard time drawing comparisons to other bands but they are definitely in the wheel-house of the Americana genre.

Losing My Train

SXSW 2014: St. Paul and the Broken Bones

Since we probably won't get into the KCRW show a fallback is our old faithful: the Tap Room.  We always seem to see a good band there.  This year should be no exception.  The Wednesday showcase is from Single Lock Records, a label out of Muscle Shoals, AL.

First up is a band out of Birmingham that is making waves.  They are playing Bonnaroo and getting lots of buzz.  Their album was produced by Ben Tanner of Alabama Shakes.  Very similar to their sound.  Should be a good time.

Broken Bones & Pocket Change

No embedding so here's the video:

SXSW 2014: Future Islands

Also on the KCRW bill Wednesday is a band formed in Greenville, NC but now residing in Baltimore.  They just signed to 4AD and have a record coming out in March.  It looks like they're getting some buzz as they're on this bill and playing the Spotify House day party.

This is an older song of theirs.  It reminds me of 80s era Rod Stewart.

Balance

SXSW 2014: Jamestown Revival

The next band at the KCRW showcase Wednesday is a duo originally from Magnolia, TX who resided in Austin before moving to L.A.  They're listed as Austin-based on the schedule.

They've got a Lumineers/Dawes/Shovels and Rope thing going on.

California (Cast Iron Soul)

SXSW 2014: Kins

KCRW's Wednesday showcase at Haven is a SXSW staple. They always seem to have good bands.  Unfortunately they don't always let in the general public.  Badges and wristbands only. It's ridiculous that a publicly-funded radio station has an exclusionary admission policy.

First on the bill is Glass Animals, who are also playing Haven the night before.

Another Brighton band is up next.  Well, they're originally from Australia but now reside in Brighton.  Kind of a mix between Radiohead and Alt-J.  Their album is getting good reviews.

Post Tropical Storm

SXSW 2014: The Kooks

Next up at the Parish on Wednesday is a band from Brighton, East Sussex.  They have achieved quadruple platinum status in the U.K. and are big in Austrialia, too.  They've had decent success here in the States, last here playing with Foster the People (I won't hold that against them, yet) at the Backyard in 2012.  They also came through SXSW back in 2006 and played at Antone's in 2008.

This song reminds me a little of the Jake Bugg sound.  One critic called them a mix of Thin Lizzy and The Police.

She Moves in Her Own Way

SXSW 2014: Claire

The next band playing at Parish on Wednesday is from Munich, Germany.  This song reminds me of Naked and the Famous.  Their other hit, Games, reminds me of a mix between Chvrches and the XX.

They are signed to Capitol Records so they'll get the major label push.

Broken Promise Land

SXSW 2014: Lemâitre

There are a few options for Wednesday so I'll cover my first choice today.  Surprisingly, it's not the KCRW showcase.  This one is at the Parish.  It may be the NPR showcase.  It's heavy on international acts so maybe not.

This band is the main reason for going.  It's a duo from Oslo, Norway that has taken off in Europe and Australia.  This is their first trip to the U.S. and this will be their first show here.

I really like this song.  It reminds me of "Discovery" era Daft Punk.

Continuum

SXSW 2014: The Preatures

Other acts on the Tuesday Haven showcase are Glass Animals (who I previewed here) and Arthur Beatrice (who I previewed here) and breakout band BANKS (who I previewed here).  All those bands are from the U.K.  This one is from Sydney.  More poppy.

This song reminds me of a Prince song from the 80s.  Dance-worthy.

Is This How You Feel?

SXSW 2014: Syd Arthur

The Tuesday showcase at Haven is probably the one to catch if we go out Tuesday.  I'll preview Syd Arthur first.  They're out of the U.K. and remind me of Radiohead if they formed in the 60s.  Here's more on them.

Edge of the Earth

SXSW 2014: Wardell

After that break it's time to get serious about the previews.  I'll start with the Tuesday showcases.  Playing at Buffalo Billiards along with Madi Diaz and Avi Buffalo is this band made up of a brother and sister.  Oh, they're Steven Spielberg's kids.

Indie pop feel.  Kind of reminds me of Yeah Yeah Yeahs.

Opossum

SXSW 2014: Float Fall

This is a male-female duo from Belgium.  They're compared to the XX.  This song definitely sounds like them.

Someday

SXSW 2014: Mire Kay

Here are a couple mellow tunes for a dreary Tuesday.  First up is a duo from Sweden.  They're compared to First Aid Kit obviously.  They're getting some buzz thanks to that.

If we want to see them we'll probably want to find a quiet venue.  Quite mellow.

Reverse

SXSW 2014: Little Boots

A nice dance-pop song from Victoria Hesketh, a British singer/musician.  She's been to SXSW a few times.

Motorway 

SXSW 2014: Lolo

This is a good song.  Expect lots of airplay (after changing the 4-letter word lyrics).  It's from Lolo, the alter-ego of Lauren Pritchard.  Like Father John Misty, she's escaping her musical past and creating a new persona.

Great voice.

Heard it From a Friend

SXSW 2014: Boy and Bear

Here's one from a Sydney band.  This song reminds me a little of Noah and the Whale with Lindsay Buckingham sitting in.

Southern Sun

SXSW 2014: Eliza and the Bear

A couple Bear-named bands in honor of the Opening Ceremonies in Russia today.  The first is Eliza and the Bear, a band out of London.  Very poppy sound. They've opened for Imagine Dragons.  Makes sense.  Probably will get lots of airplay on "the new KGSR".

It Gets Cold

SXSW 2014: Yellow Ostrich

We saw this band at Home Slice on the same day we saw Hospitality.  He's got a new album coming out as well.  Quite a different sound from the quirky sound of the first album.  I wouldn't mind checking them out again.

Shades

SXSW 2014: Hospitality

Another SXSW veteran I really liked when we saw them.  Their new album just came out.  This starts fairly slow but builds into a pretty good song by the end.

I Miss Your Bones

SXSW 2014: The Belle Brigade

One of my favorite bands from SXSW a couple years ago.  They've also played ACL Fest.  They have a new album coming out March 25th.  This song kind of reminds me of Madonna's "Ray of Light" period.

Ashes

SXSW 2014: Little Hurricane

While we're waiting for the schedule to come out on Monday I'll throw up some new stuff from some SXSW alumni.  This is a little different sound from Little Hurricane, the duo that has also played ACL Fest.  We haven't seen them yet, though.  Maybe this year.

Their new album comes out March 4th.

Sheep in Wolves Clothes

SXSW 2014: Priscilla Ahn

We'll finish off female singer-songwriter day with Georgia-born, Philadelphia-raised, now L.A. based Priscilla Natalie Hartranft.  (She took her mother's Korean maiden name of Ahn.)  Like Angel Olsen, she's moving from a guitar folk-based background into a fuller rocking sound.

This is off her new album.  Sounds a lot like Lykke Li.

Diana

SXSW 2014: Angel Olsen

Singer-songwriter Angel Olsen has gone from minimalist folk to full-on rock on her latest album, which comes out in two weeks.  Currently based in Chicago, this is her 2nd album and is being released by Jagjaguwar (Bon Iver, Sharon Van Etton).

Expect to hear more from her.  She's playing Red 7 on Feb. 25th before returning for SXSW.

Forgiven/Forgotten

Embedding disabled.  Why do they do that?  Here's the video instead:

SXSW 2014: Arthur Beatrice

Might as well stick with female vocalists.  This is a band out of the UK that is releasing their first album this month.

Sultry voice.

Midland

SXSW 2014: Banks

Another breakout. Banks is an L.A. singer that hasn't released a full album yet but she's already tabbed for stardom.  This song has exploded on the internet.  She's playing Coachella and Sasquatch.  Most likely ACL, too.

Another gothic/dark melody along the lines of Zola Jesus.  It gets better as it goes along.

Brain

SXSW 2014: Streets of Laredo

Three siblings from New Zealand now living in Brooklyn joined a few friends and formed a band.  Of course they're called Streets of Laredo.

This is a nice song. I guess you could compare them to the Lumineers.  Lots of sing-alongs and hand-claps.

Hey Rose

SXSW 2014: Mighty Oaks

We'll finish off Americana week with a truly international band.  It's a trio consisting of an American, an Italian, and a Brit. Based in Berlin.

They're represented by the Windish Agency, which does a good job promoting their bands (Dan Croll, Warpaint, Lykke Li to name a few).  I expect they'll get a good showcase and probably play some good day parties.

Just One Day

SXSW 2014: Humming House

This is a bluegrass band out of Nashville.  A little Avett Brothers sound.

Fly On

SXSW 2014: The Autumn Defense

Can't get more alt-country than Uncle Tupelo and Wilco bassist John Stirratt.  This is a side-project of his in partnership with frequent Wilco contributor Pat Sansone.  The Autumn Defense has been around for years and they just released a new album a couple days ago.  This song is on it.

This song reminds me a little of Johnny Goudie.

This Thing That I've Found

SXSW 2014: Swear and Shake

Another indie-folk band, this time from Brooklyn.  This song has been out about a year.  I could see these guys playing the Heartbreaker Banquet.  (I got a tweet that it's on again this year.  Yes!)

These White Walls

SXSW 2014: The Districts

Some folk-rock from Philadelphia-based The Districts.  Their EP came out yesterday on Fat Possum Records and includes this song that was originally released in 2012.  They are touring with White Denim right now.

Deer Tick fans should enjoy this.  A little Kings of Leon sound, too.

Funeral Beds

SXSW 2014: The Devil Makes Three

Another band that has been around awhile.  It's a trio originally from Vermont and New Hampshire that formed in Santa Cruz, CA.  They are signed to New West so I expect they'll play that party and showcase.  This song is off their new album that came out in October.  Good folk/bluegrass sound.

Stranger

SXSW 2014: Dawn Landes

A nice mellow song.  Dawn Landes has been around for awhile but this may be her breakout year.  She has a new album coming out in February on Western Vinyl Records, according to Brooklyn Vegan.  It includes support from Norah Jones, which you can hear on this song.  She was married to Josh Ritter and this album covers her side of their divorce.

Love Song

It can't be embedded so click above to listen.

SXSW 2014: Escondido

A nice mellow song by a male/female duo from Nashville, although the guy has been playing with LA-based Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros. Reminds me a little of Cowboy Junkies.

Black Roses

SXSW 2014: Mandolin Orange

This week is alt-country week.  I've been focusing on indie pop so far so let's try finding some good alt-country/bluegrass/Americana bands.  First up is a duo from North Carolina.

This is a really nice song.  This article compares them to a duet between John Prine and Lucinda Williams and I think it fits.  They're signed to Yep Roc so perhaps that will give them some visibility among the thousands of bands in town.  A good choice for Old Settler's.

Waltz about Whiskey

SXSW 2014: Charli XCX

We'll finish this mostly International week with a singer from England.  She's famous for writing and singing on "I Love It", which is a smash hit for Icona Pop (64M views on Youtube).  You can't turn on the TV without hearing it.  They both were here for SXSW last year before it exploded so now Charli XCX, aka Charlotte Emma Aitchison, is coming back riding that wave.

This is a nice pop song to end the week.  A little M.I.A. sound to it.

What I Like

SXSW 2014: Josef Salvat

We'll stay in Australia with another male singer/songwriter.  He was profiled as a new band of the day in this Guardian article.  They compare him to Morrissey but I hear a little of The National in this song.  Mellow pop that should do well.

Hustler

SXSW 2014: Vance Joy

Vance Joy is the moniker of James Keogh, a law school graduate from Melbourne, Australia that decided to pursue a music career instead. This song exploded on the Hype Machine and went triple platinum in Australia.  He's signed a five-album deal with Atlantic Records so expect lots of radio airplay and hype at SXSW.

This reminds me a little of the Shins mixed in with Ed Sheeran.  Prediction: like Sheeran before him, he'll be playing this at the Grammys next year.

Riptide

SXSW 2014: Black City Lights

I might as well stick to International acts this week.  Here's a duo from Wellington, New Zealand that plays what they describe as "dark pop" or "cold wave".  They've toured with Grimes.  Remind me a little of "1984"-era Eurythmics.

Offering

SXSW 2014: Solander

I'll stick with haunting melodies and European bands today.  This is a trio out of Sweden.  They've toured with Junip.

All Opportunities

SXSW 2014: Snow Ghosts

This is a haunting melody.  Reminds me of Bat for Lashes and Zola Jesus.  They're a duo out of Bristol, UK. They've toured with Atoms for Peace.

And the World Was Gone

SXSW 2014: Gossling

Now off to Melbourne, Australia.  Gossling is the moniker of singer/songwriter Helen Croome.  Her album came out in November and now she's venturing here for SXSW.  This song is about a relationship destroyed by infidelity.  Don't let that scare you away, though. It's good.

Never Expire

SXSW 2014: Jungle

This is a very good song.  It could easily be mistaken for TV on the Radio.  It appears to be a duo out of the U.K.  They have been secretive about who they are but are now out touring.  Here's a short interview with them.  You also need to watch the video.  That kid is good.

Another expected breakout band.

Platoon

SXSW 2014: Wild Ones

I'll stick to the mellow tunes today.  Here's a nice song from a band out of Portland.  Reminds me a little of Wild Belle.

From Nothing

SXSW 2014: Glass Animals

Here's a nice mellow tune by a band from Britain.  This song reminds me of Morcheeba.

Black Mambo

SXSW 2014: Panama Wedding

One more 80s song.  The band is from NYC and this is really the only song that has been released.  Another nice summer ditty.

All of the People

SXSW 2014: Little Daylight

I'll post some retro 80s music today.  This is another Brooklyn band.  Very sugary-sweet. Maybe too much for me.

Glitter and Gold

SXSW 2014: NONONO

Here's another future hit. Reminds me of Naked and Famous.  We better see them before the 101X crowds get into them.

This is a trio from Sweden that were a hit at CMJ.  Expectations are big.

Pumpin Blood

SXSW 2014: Only Real

This is just a great song.  If there's any justice this will be a hit. It's a guy from London.  Kind of reminds me of The Streets.  He played the Pitchfork Festival in Paris so he's getting noticed.

The video is so British. Fun.

Get It On

SXSW 2014: Ghost Loft

I'll stick with the ambient, chillwave sound for today.  We'll jump across the fly-over states and preview a band from L.A., where another 30% of the bands at SXSW will be from.

Not much on this band in the ether but it looks like it's a project by producer Danny Choi.  I like this song, though.  Seconds is also good if you want to hear more.  I can see KCRW getting behind this guy.

So High

SXSW 2014: East Forest

Here's a mellow tune to start the day.  Reminds me of Air.  This guy is from Brooklyn.  Probably 40% of the bands at SXSW will be.

By the way, I've got a playlist on the website in the sidebar.  If you want to jump ahead and listen to bands before I post them here go listen to it.  I'll keep adding bands as I find songs I like.

10 Laws

SXSW 2014: London Grammar

Ok here's the first breakout band you'll want to see.  The buzz is huge so expect them to be at the badges-only showcases.  That means we'll need to scour the day parties to find them playing a small out-of-the-way venue.

Straight out of the Florence and the Machine mold, this Nottingham band is signed to Warner Brothers and have already made a splash in the UK and Australia.  They're on the way to the U.S. so expect lots of airplay soon.

Strong

SXSW 2014: Deirdre and the Dark

We're about 8 weeks from the start of SXSW Music so I guess it's time to start researching bands.  My purpose with these posts is to find the bands that are poised to break out.  SXSW is full of great bands and you can't go wrong walking into any venue at any time.  What I like to see is a great band playing a small venue before they hit it big and start selling out Stubbs.  Like seeing Head and the Heart in front of a small crowd at Mellow Johnny's.

Once the showcases and day parties start coming out I'll get more prolific with band profiles but for now I'll just throw up some songs I like.  First up is a band from Brooklyn.  I've been accused of favoring female-fronted indie pop bands so this shouldn't come as a surprise.  This is a sweet song.  Nothing too original about it but it's well done.

Skeleton