PICKSYSTICKS

"ROSES" IS CRANBERRIES' FIRST ALBUM IN TEN YEARS

2012-02-10T11:32:00.000-08:00

Cranberries

After ten years, The Cranberries returns with a new album Roses which will be released worldwide on February 27th. They start their world tour next month and head over to our side of the pond in May, so far only scheduling nine shows in the U.S. But no Los Angeles dates have been announced...yet (cross my fingers). The first concert I saw when I moved to Los Angeles was The Cranberries. They had just released No Need To Argue after gaining mainstream success with their debut album Everybody Else Is Doing It, So Why Can't We? in 1992 with hit singles "Dreams" and "Linger."

Their first single "Tomorrow" was released last month and lead singer Dolores O'Riordan recently told Billboard that this new record was "inspired by real-life concerns of adulthood, parenting and mortality." You can pre-order Roses from iTunes and Amazon right HERE and HERE. Check out their official webpage www.cranberries.com for tour dates.

"Tomorrow" by Cranberries off their new album Rose available Feb. 27th.

The Track List for "Roses" Includes:
1. "Conduct"
2. "Tomorrow"
3. "Fire & Soul"
4. "Raining In My Heart"
5. "Losing My Mind"
6. "Schizophrenic Playboys"
7. "Waiting In Walthamstow"
8. "Show Me"
9. "Astral Projections"
10. "So Good"
11. "Roses"
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Stream TONIGHT ALIVE'S New Album "What Are You So Scared Of?"

2012-02-07T17:21:00.000-08:00

Tonight Alive

This has been a crazy start to the new year for this band from down under. They've recently announced their U.S. tour which begins on February 19th with stops at SXSW and news just broke that they'll be one of the featured bands on this year's Vans Warped Tour which starts in June.

Now, in anticipation for their upcoming release, Australia’s red-hot “buzzworthy” pop-punk band Tonight Alive are streaming their new album, What Are You So Scared Of?, in its entirety, beginning today on MTV.com. What Are You So Scared Of? is scheduled for release on February 14, but fans can get an early listen right now at http://buzzworthy.mtv.com/2012/02/07/tonight-alive-what-are-you-so-scared-of-album-stream/.

What Are You So Scared Of? is available for pre-order in a variety of bundles from Fearless Records (http://bit.ly/zT9W7T) and digitally through iTunes (http://bit.ly/wa2wlT), but fans can get a taste of the new album now by watching the videos for “Starlight” (http://bit.ly/zDtsKA) and “Breaking & Entering” (http://bit.ly/waMvcE)!

JULIET SIMMS OF AUTOMATIC LOVELETTER ON NBC'S "The Voice"

2012-02-05T17:27:00.000-08:00

Automatic Loveletter's Juliet Simms performs at Vans Warped Tour in San Diego.
photo by picksysticks

Sunday night, after the Super Bowl, was the premiere for the second season of NBC’s “The Voice” and one singer that I was happy to see was Juliet Simms who fronts the band Automatic Loveletter and she brought the house down.

The thing that separates The Voice from all the other singing competitions is that they start with the highest levels of talent. And during the blind auditions, Juliet sang "Oh Darling" by The Beatles and it was Maroon 5 frontman Adam Levine and Cee Lo Green quickly hitting their "I Want You" buzzer while Christina Aguilera held back towards the end. And wow! It was a battle between Christina Aguilera and Adam Levine giving their best pitch for Juliet to pick them as their coach. Christina said Juliet's performance 'blew her socks off' while Adam loved her dirty, gruffness vocals. But in the end, Juliet chose to be on Cee-Lo's team who loved her style and energy.

One of the hardest working singers in the business, Simms formed Automatic Loveletter in Florida in 2005. Since then, she has released two albums and a couple EPs. Constantly touring to make her dreams come true, Simms’ stunningly smooth and powerful voice has left a mark with audiences wherever she has played. Warped Tour veterans of three years, she played an acoustic set last year showcasing her tortured and vulnerable vocals delivered over her tender, soulful-rock arrangements. Hopefully, this new opportunity will garner her more exposure for her and her music.

"Story of My Life" off the album Truth or Dare by Automatic Loveletter.
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CASSADEE POPE @ Key Club

2012-02-03T13:37:00.000-08:00

Cassadee Pope performs at The Key Club during her first solo tour.
photos by picksysicks

The Key Club on Hollywood's famed Sunset Strip was the scene for Cassadee Pope's intimate show that had the feel of a VH1 Storytellers concert as Pope took time between songs to share stories behind each song. It was her first ever solo tour after touring non-stop for four years as the front-woman of her power-pop band Hey Monday.

Tuesday night, Pope cracked open her music box - a 15-song set that included new original songs while also throwing in some familiar acoustic versions of Hey Monday tunes such as "Wish You Were Here" and "I Don't Wanna Dance." "Candles" was an altered version of the sad ballad slow jam where the album version uses a piano but tonight it was delivered with acoustic guitars accompanied by a weeping violin.

It was truly an intimate show with a bare stage, Pope blanketed in a warm, soft glow of red, wearing an open-sleeve blouse and cheetah-print platform pumps as a devoted following sang along to her new songs not yet released. In fact, a preview of a song Cassadee posted last month already amassed over 18,000 hits. And it was that song "Lunatic" that she brought out Justin Young, which she co-wrote the song with, on stage to perform with her. Another surprise guest appearance came when Yellowcard's Ryan Key joined Cassadee for two songs,"Hang You Up" and "Only One."

Listening to the stripped down songs further showcased Pope's vulnerable yet confident vocals, especially on a cover of Ednaswap's "Torn" (or as most know it as Natalie Imbruglia version) But of course, her new original songs were the highlights of the night with powerful memorable hooks delivered over soaring melodies. Lavished with haunting strings, "I Told You So" is about overcoming rejection and not giving up on your dreams, "Proved You Wrong" has flavors of Hey Monday while "Second Hand Love" she explained, was inspired by Sugarland.

Cassadee Pope performs at The Key Club.
photo by picksysticks

Towards the end of the hour-long set, Pope invited the crowd to sing along with her to “How You Like Me Now” and then ended the night with “6 Months,” a song she said she wrote when she was 16 for a boy she was dating for their six months anniversary. Eventually, she says, they broke up soon after.

It was a night of old and new, Pope entertaining her devoted fans with classic Hey Monday songs while also celebrating her future endeavors as a solo artist. And what this night proves is that even though Pope’s new songs showed a new maturity to her writing, she doesn’t veer far from her power/pop roots that her fans have come to expect from her.

Setlist (Key Club, Jan. 31, 2012):
Wish You Were Here / Hangover / Proved You Wrong / Second Hand Love / Lunatic (w/Justin Young) / Hang You Up (duet with Ryan Key of Yellowcard) / Only One (duet with Ryan Key of Yellowcard) / Candles / I Don’t Wanna Dance / Homecoming / I Told You So / Torn (Ednaswap cover) / How You Like Me Now / 6 Months

REMAINING TOUR DATES:
2/11- Chicago @ Beat Kitchen
2/12 - Pittsburgh @ The Altar Bar
2/14 - Philadelphia @ First Unitarian Church
2/15 - Boston @ Brighton Music Hall
2/16 - Teaneck @ Mexicali Live
2/17 - New York @ Highline Ballroom
2/18 - Whitehall @ Planet TrogEnt. Complex
2/19- Baltimore @ Baltimore Soundstage
2/21- Greensboro, N.C. @ Greene Street
2/22- Atlanta @ The Masquerade
2/23 - Gainesville, Fla. @ Double Down Live
2/24 - Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Culture Room

NEW VIDEO: CHELSEA WILLIAMS' COVER OF "BILLIONAIRE"

2012-01-31T05:28:00.000-08:00

Late last year, the new Shine 2012 Chevrolet Cruze commercial began airing featuring Third Street Promenade street performer Chelsea Williams singing the Travie McCoy/Bruno Mars hit song "Billionaire." This week, Chelsea releases this video with a full version of the song. Here she is performing on Third Street. And below is her commercial for Chevy.

"Billionaire" by Chelsea Williams

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MOONPOOLS AND CATERPILLARS REUNITE AFTER 14 YEARS - REUNION SHOW IS ON!!!

2012-01-28T14:09:00.000-08:00

Moonpools & Caterpillars are Kimi, Tim, Gugut and Jay Jay.

"Los Angeles...it's gonna happen" was the cryptic message posted on the Moonpools and Caterpillars official Facebook page on Jan. 28th. Which means that after 14 years, the Los Angeles band will reunite to play once again. OH YEEE-AAAH. Now, all we need to hear are dates and venues which they'll hopefully announce soon and I'll be first in line to grab some. Stay tuned for more details.

It began back in August of 2010, with rumors of a reunion show which was fueled by Moonpools and Caterpillars' own Facebook page revealing full-band practice sessions and the teasing a possible show at the intimate Hotel Cafe. And with that news, fans were foaming at the mouth for a chance to see Moonpools and Caterpillars one last time. Let's hope, at least for me who has never seen this band live, that this happens.

Comprised of Kimi Ward Encarnacion, Jay Jay Encarnacion, Gugut Salgado and Tim de Pala, Moonpools and Caterpillars' rise to fame was accidental. It's said that during one of their shows, an A&R representative from a record label went to one of their shows looking to sign a different band that was also performing that night. Well, the A&R guy got there early and caught Moonpools' set and loved them so much he signed them on the spot. As for the other band? Who knows?

Moonpools and Caterpillars last show at The Whisky A Go Go

Through the years, Moonpools and Caterpillars have grown a cult-like following by word of mouth, friends making copies for friends, listening to their songs on long car rides and singing along to their universal lyrics of life, proving that their albums hasn't aged through the years and their songs could easily play on radio today. Today, years later, I still listen to these albums and with the help of the internet, fans –new and old – can rediscover this band that continues to entertain. For me, this was basically the start of Picksysticks and my love for women-fronted bands began.

Check out their appearance on Disney's "Wish Upon a Star" which happens to be Katherine Heigl's very first movie.

Moonpools and Caterpillars performing "Hear" in the 1996 Disney movie "Wish Upon a Star."
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IT'S THE WEEKEND: PARTY TO YOUNG LONDON

2012-01-27T13:18:00.000-08:00

Young London are Sara Graziani and Matt Rhoades

Wow. This electro-pop duo is hyping me up for the weekend. Comprised of Boston duo Sara Graziani and Matt Rhoades, Young London just released their dance-inducing, explosive self-titled debut album on January 10th. Hit songs up the wah-hoo, they wowed with hits like "Celebrity" and "New Reputation" at SXSW and their video for "Let Me Go" have amassed nearly 100,000 views since it was released four months ago. Their debut album is available in stores and on iTunes right HERE.

"Let Me Go" by Young London
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The Dø Covers Janelle Monaé's "Tightrope"

2012-01-26T16:19:00.000-08:00

Olivia Merilahti of The Dø performs at The Bootleg Theater in 2010.
photo by picksysticks

The UK's The Gaurdian just premiered a new song from French outfit The Dø. Actually, it's not a new song but a new cover of Janelle Monae's "Tightrope."

The Gaurdian excerpt:
Artists often cover songs either as a way of adding a layer of "authenticity" (see Travis's acoustic take on Britney's Baby One More Time, or as part of a TV talent show and they have no choice. On both occasions a good cover – to quote Simon Cowell – involves "making the song your own" and while that's always nice when it happens (Johnny Cash's reworking of Nine Inch Nails' Hurt is taken as the definitive version now), it's also fun just to hear someone giving a song a go for the hell of it. That's where French/Finnish duo the Dø's take on Janelle Monaé's Tightrope – premiered here – comes into its own. (read the rest of the review at The Gaurdian)

Also see:
The Dø @ The Bootleg Theater

CASSADEE POPE LAUNCHES FIRST EVER SOLO TOUR

2012-01-25T03:13:00.000-08:00

Cassadee Pope begins her acoustic tour this Friday.
photo by picksysticks

Hey Monday lead singer Cassadee Pope has been performing in front of audiences since she was 13 years old. So when Hey Monday surprised their fans when they announced the band would be taking a 'hiatus' it came as no surprise to learn that the now 22-year-old Pope turned to what she's known most of her life - the stage.

Earlier this month, with Pope's announcement that she would be embarking on her first ever solo tour, there was a collective sigh of relief from millions of fans upon hearing the news that Hey Monday had not broken up but were merely taking a 'hiatus.' It took lead singer Cassadee Pope to clear up the confusion when she released a statement:

"I wanted to let you all know that Hey Monday is not "broken up." We are, however, taking a break and pursuing things on our own...I hope you all understand that this does not mean we'll never release new music or tour ever again...Me and the guys are still friends and always will be, and this was a decision we all agreed was for the best."

So, while fans won't be hearing any new Hey Monday songs anytime soon, the better news is that Pope has been writing new original songs and plans to showcase them on an 18-city acoustic tour across the United States. In fact, one of her new songs called "Lunatic" posted on YouTube has already received over 16,000 hits since she posted it January 10th and reveals a more mature songwriting direction from Pope but still manages to deliver it over pop melodies that Hey Monday fans come to expect. But unlike Hey Monday's power-pop sound, Pope hopes to carve out her own musical identity. "I want the lyrics to be more edgy and darker than anything on the radio. Just doing what I love, the real instruments and guitars but with a real pop twist to it," says Pope.

But don't fret HM fans. Pope also revealed that her set list will include some Hey Monday songs as well as 10-11 original songs she's been working on as well as a possible cover or two. "It's going to be a really fun time, like a 'Storytellers' kind of thing," she says.

Pope first came into public view when she formed Hey Monday in 2008. Their power-pop sound caught the attention of Pete Wetz and they soon were signed to his label and Columbia Records. Since then, the band has toured non-stop sharing the stage with the likes of Fall Out Boy, The Academy Is and All Time Low.

Cassadee Pope embarks on her first ever solo tour.
photo by picksysticks

Now, as Hey Monday takes a break, Pope is heading out solo by playing 18 cities in one month beginning this Friday at Anaheim's Chain Reaction and ending 28 days later in her home state of Florida. Supporting her will be Stephen Jerzak, Justin Young and Darling Parade. If you can't make the Anaheim show this Friday, Cassadee performs at The Key Club on the famed Sunset Strip next Tuesday (1/31). Click HERE for dates and ticket info.

CASSADEE POPE SHOWS

1/27 - Anaheim @ Chain Reaction
1/28 - San Diego @ Soma Sidestage
1/29 - Scottsdale @ Martini Ranch
1/31 - West Hollywood @ Key Club
2/1 - Camarillo @ Rock City
2/2 - Bakersfield @ Jerry’s Pizza & Pub
2/11- Chicago @ Beat Kitchen
2/12 - Pittsburgh @ The Altar Bar
2/14 - Philadelphia @ First Unitarian Church
2/15 - Boston @ Brighton Music Hall
2/16 - Teaneck @ Mexicali Live
2/17 - New York @ Highline Ballroom
2/18 - Whitehall @ Planet TrogEnt. Complex
2/19- Baltimore @ Baltimore Soundstage
2/21- Greensboro, N.C. @ Greene Street
2/22- Atlanta @ The Masquerade
2/23 - Gainesville, Fla. @ Double Down Live
2/24 - Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Culture Room

1/25/93 - BELLY'S STAR RELEASED 19 YEARS AGO TODAY

2012-01-25T01:45:00.000-08:00

Kay Hanley (Letters to Cleo) and Tanya Donelly (Belly).
photo via Kay Hanley twitter

Awwww. Check this out. My two favorite singers together. Kay Hanley of Letters To Cleo and Tanya Donelly of Belly taken recently by Kay in Boston where the two performed together during a benefit for Foundation to be Named Later on January 14th. Maybe the two will form a band together. I can dream can't I? Who could ever forget Kay serenading Heath Ledger and Julia Stiles in "10 Things I Hate About You." One of the best films ever. I miss the 90's and looking at this pic, 90's alternative never looked so beautiful.

Get More: Belly, Feed the Tree, Music, More Music Videos

"Feed the Tree" by Belly of 1993's Star

And 19 years ago today, Belly released the dream-pop-alternative album Star which spawned hits "Feed The Tree," "Gepetto," and "Slow Dog." Formed in Boston in 1991 by front woman Tanya Donelly, the album reached certified gold and Belly was nominated for two Grammy Awards. They disbanded in 1996 and Donelly went on to record one of my favorite albums - yet under appreciated Lovesongs for Underdogs in 1997. Today? Donelly still immerses herself in music. Last year, she released the fragile and soft, country-esque album Whiskey Tango Ghosts. And last month, she took part in Under The Covers: Please Please Please tribute to The Smiths, singing an acoustic version of "Shoplifters of the World." You can get that album now at American Laundromat. And it's available on iTunes.

What's Kay up to these days? She currently resides in L.A. and fronts the her new band Palmdale, releasing two EPs last year called Get Wasted and How To Be Mean which you can purchase at iTunes right HERE! Below is Palmdale's single "Happiness Has a Half-Life" and for good ol' times sake, "Here and Now" from Kay's Letters To Cleo days.

"Happiness Has a Half-Life" by Palmdale from the Get Wasted EP.

"Here and Now" by Letters to Cleo
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Kim DiVine Has A "Perfect Kind of Love"

2012-01-22T18:43:00.000-08:00

Kim DiVine
photo by picksysticks

Kim DiVine has that voice that you've heard of before but never actually knew who's voice it belonged to. Her angelic voice has helped her compile an impressive resume that includes her songs being featured in films, television and commercials and singing in some of the country's biggest venues including Madison Square Garden and Staples Center.

This is her official video for her song "Perfect Kind of Love." It's off her EP Five which she just released this weekend. And if you still don't know where you've heard her voice before here's a hint: She's the voice of Jello-O. You've probably heard her singing the jingle in the Jello-O commercials. Yep, that's her.

"Perfect Kind of Love" by Kim DiVine
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ALABAMA SHAKES Sells Out Troubadour

2012-01-20T13:33:00.000-08:00

Alabama Shakes

Alabama Shake's debut album Boys & Girls won't be released until April but they still managed to sell-out more than half of their dates on their tour - including one here at The Troubadour on Jan. 25th. And after watching this video, you'll understand why.

"You Ain't Alone" by Alabama Shakes
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NEW VIDEO: AMY MAY IS 'REAL'

2012-01-20T10:11:00.000-08:00

Amy May performs at Santa Monica's Apple Store on 3rd St.
photo by picksysticks

If you're a regular reader of this site, then you're well aware of my love for Amy May. A regular busker on Santa Monica's 3rd Street Promenade, Ms. May just released an official video for one of my favorite songs "Real." And last night her song was featured on CW's "One Tree Hill." How cool is that. Chalk up another success story from 3rd Street Promenade. "Real" was also featured on Delta Airlines' Hello Music in-flight entertainment recently and with a couple independently released albums under her belt, Amy has hopes her new music will reach the mainstream by launching a campaign to raise funds to record her new album through Indie Gogo. You can help her out right HERE. You can watch her next when she plays the Macha Theater in Hollywood on Jan. 25th. It'll be nice to see her perform on an actual stage instead of the on the streets. Should be fun!

"Real" official video by Amy May.
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DEAD SARA Announced As Featured Band on Warped Tour

2012-01-18T13:26:00.000-08:00

Los Angeles rockers, Dead Sara has just been confirmed as one of the featured artists to performs at this year's Vans Warped Tour. With this, Dead Sara is ready to explode onto the music scene. In what has to be one of the longest debut album release teases in history, Dead Sara reminds us why good things come to those who wait. A planned release last August was pushed back to October and then finally this May through Fontana/Universal by way of their own record label Pocket Kid Records. Warped Tour, now in it's 18th year launches June 16th in Salt Lake City, Utah.

"Weatherman" by Dead Sara

FREE SONG: "I Want You" from Candy Hearts

2012-01-18T10:55:00.000-08:00

Candy Hearts

After receiving rave reviews for their second full-length album Everything's Amazing & Nobody's Happy which was released last September, New York bubblegum-punk rockers Candy Hearts are now currently working on a new EP. Known for the bouncy melodies delivered over punk-pop arrangements, Candy Hearts are currently working on their new EP and are offering a brand-new acoustic demo song titled "I Want You" free through their Bandcamp page. A full band version of the song will appear on their upcoming EP later this year. And while they're doing that, Candy Hearts just announced that they're heading out on tour with Man Overboard in what's being billed by Alternative Press as one of the top tours to attend this winter. Click HERE for tour dates and info.

Anyways, below is one of my favorite songs off of Everything's Amazing & Nobody's Happy. It's called "Tongue Tied." Enjoy!

Tongue Tied by candyhearts

MY MORNING CUP OF COFFEE SONG: "Honeypie" by Peachy Keene

2012-01-17T04:38:00.000-08:00

Peachy Keene

I came across this single "Honeypie" from Silverlake's own Peachy Keene and immediately fell in love. Made up of Danielle Clement, Christine Clement, Glenn Chu, Kim Ward and Kelsey Johnston, Peachy Keene lavishes in dreamy pop melodies over playful synths in a way that makes them sound refreshing and new. Their other songs, off their EP When We Collide, which was released last year, have hints of vintage-romantic and folky-pop sound. They play The Commonwealth in Fullerton on January 22nd and then The Silverlake Lounge on Jan. 24th. Can't wait!!

02 Honeypie by peachykeenemusic

NEW VIDEO AND TOUR NEWS: ASTEROIDS GALAXY TOUR

2012-01-15T11:19:00.000-08:00

Asteroids Galaxy Tour performs at The Echoplex during Culture Collide.
photo by picksysticks

Probably my first exposure to The Asteroids Galaxy Tour came from their catchy song "The Golden Age" which is featured on Heineken's spectacular TV ad. This Denmark-based band, fronted by porcelain, psychedelic, pop-princess Mette Lindberg, shines with their horn section and with their rich and cascading party arrangements.

"Golden Age" by Asteroids Galaxy Tour

Now, The Asteroids Galaxy Tour are set to start their U.S. tour to support their latest record. Here's the newest video from The Asteroids Galaxy Tour called "Heart Attack." It's the first single off their upcoming album Out of Frequency which drops on January 31st. That's the same day they launch their U.S. tour in New York City. They play the Echoplex here in Los Angeles on Valentines Day. You can pre-order their album right HERE.

"Heart Attack" by Asteroids Galaxy Tour.

JOY FORMIDABLE ANNOUNCE U.S. TOUR - PLAYS THE MUSIC BOX

2012-01-13T13:01:00.000-08:00

Joy Formidable performs at The El Rey last year.
photo by picksysticks.

Joy Formidable has just announced they'll be heading out on a new U.S. tour beginning this March. They're currently in Portland, Maine recording their follow-up to the smash debut album The Big Roar. Joining them on this tour will be A Place to Bury Strangers and Exit Music. Already pre-sale tickets are sold out for certain cities so get them quick! Click HERE for ticket info.

TOUR DATES:
3/12 - San Francisco @ Independent
3/13 - San Francisco @ Independent
3/14 - Los Angeles @ Henry Fonda Theatre (The Music Box)
3/17 - Denver @ Bluebird Theatre
3/19 - Minneapolis @ Fine Line Music Cafe
3/20 - Madison @ Majestic Theatre
3/22 -Bloomington @ The Bluebird
3/23 - Cincinnati @ 20th Century Theatre
3/24 -Atlanta @ Masquerade
3/25 - Asheville @ Orange Peel 1
3/26 - Washington @ 9:30 Club
3/28 - New York @ Terminal 5
3/29 - Philadelphia @ Union Transfer
3/30 - Boston @ Paradise Rock Club
3/31 - Montreal @ SAT
4/2 - Toronto @ Lee’s Place

DEAD SARA & LAST IN CLASS @ THE TROUBADOUR

2012-01-12T19:17:00.000-08:00

Dead Sara performs at a sold out Troubadour.
photo by picksysticks

Tuesday at The Troubadour was the place to be if you love music. Put on by people who LOOOOOOOVE music. Not only was it a great night, it featured performances by local artists brought together by Danny Masterson's Bronson Island and 98.7. Masterson, a big supporter of local artists also spun hypnotic beats and mashups under his moniker DJ Mom Jeans. On the bill this night was The Feaver, Last In Class, Little Hurricane and Dead Sara.

Like lead singer Emily Armstrong pacing on stage waiting to explode into full on fury-mode, Dead Sara is ready to explode onto the music scene. In what has to be one of the longest debut album release teases in history, Dead Sara reminds us why good things come to those who wait. A planned release last August was pushed back to October and then finally this May through Fontana/Universal by way of their own record label Pocket Kid Records. I've been waiting for their album to come out when I first heard their song "We Are What You Say" about two years ago. Unfortunately, they haven't been playing that song live (at least the three times I've seen them live) but that's just one great song out of a shit-load of songs in their arsenal to love.

Pure rock and roll, Dead Sara oozes it from their pores in sweat and tears. As anticipation grew in this sold-out Troubadour crowd, Emily Armstrong started off with the slow-burning rock ballad "Sorry For It All" showcasing her powerful vocals, reaching deep into the depths of her soul. Soon afterwards, Dead Sara gave the fans what they paid to see -fierce and blistering guitars let loose over rock-anthem-like choruses in "Lemon Scent," "Test My Patience" and "Face to Face." And when Dead Sara launched into their soon-to-be mega hit "Weatherman" you almost forgot you were watching a rock show in the 450 capacity Troubadour and not in a venue like Staples Center that holds thousands. Dead Sara next plays at The Slidebar in Fullerton on Jan. 20th and then The Bootleg Theater in L.A. on Feb. 2nd. Get tiks while they last.

Last In Class performs at The Troubadour
photos by picksysticks

Earlier in the night was Last In Class, fronted by Emily Wilder and Jessica Gelt, former members of Wet & Reckless. And rounding out the group are Charlie Wadhams and Chris Watson. Only been a band for about 3 months, the foursome celebrated their coming out party by playing a residency at Casey's Irish Pub downtown last November and then a few dates at The Satellite. Last In Class spice their Nancy Sinatra meets punk sound with memorable guitar hooks and catchy melodies. Add some pop and fast powered throbbing beats and I promise you that you'll find it hard not to keep from dancing. Barely an online presence, the only way to hear them is to see them live! I love this band and can't to see them again.

Celeste 'CC' Spina and Anthony 'Tone' Catalano of Little Hurricane
photo by picksysticks

The night closed out with San Diego darlings Little Hurricane consisting of Anthony 'Tone' Catalano and Celeste 'CC' Spina. The two-person band with a big sound ala White Stripes but with a more bluesy-rock flavor took home the Best New Artist Award at last year's San Diego Music Awards. Their sound? Think of Tone as the scorching hot sun and CC is the rattlesnake gliding across the dried up desert floor. I missed them at last year's Culture Collide at The Echo due to time changes in set times. Bummer. But so excited I finally got to see them. Last month, they released their debut album called Homewrecker and Little Hurricane just scored four dates at this years SXSW Music Festival in March so this may be the year I finally decide to go.

DJ Mom Jeans spins to a sold out Troubadour.
photo by picksysticks

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Catch UH HUH HER tonight on Jimmy Kimmel

2012-01-09T17:26:00.000-08:00

Uh Huh Her
photo by picksysticks

UH HUH HER will perform this coming Monday night, January 9, on ABC-TV’s “Jimmy Kimmel Live,” marking the electro-pop group’s first-ever national late-night TV performance. Tune in on Monday at 12:05 am ET/CT/PT to watch UH HUH HER--LEISHA HAILEY (keyboards, bass) and CAMILA GREY (keyboards, guitar)--perform the electrifying new single “Marstorm” from their sophomore release NOCTURNES (Plaid). The show will also be available for viewing online the following day at: http://abc.go.com/shows/jimmy-kimmel-live.

UPDATE: Here's the full performance below. They sing "Marstorm" off their new album Nocturnes.

And check out their video below for "Another Casem " also off their newest album Nocturnes which is out now!!

"Another Case" by Uh Huh Her

Also check out:

Uh Huh Her @ The House of Blues

SUMMER CAMP ANNOUNCE U.S. TOUR: FREE ECHO SHOW

2012-01-06T11:36:00.000-08:00

Summer Camp is Elizabeth Sankey and Jeremy Warmsley

Well, I don't know if 'tour' is the right word here. So far Summer Camp have announced three cities on this trip across the pond. Hopefully, more will follow. But most importantly, they're playing the Echo on Feb. 13th! And it's FREEEEEEEE. Woo-hoo. Four dates and three cities in February with stops in New York, Washington DC and Los Angeles. Summer Camp recently released their album Welcome to Condale here in the States in November. You can purchase the album right HERE. The video for the song "Better off Without You" was their first single off that album.

2/6 - Mercury Lounge (NY)

2/7 - Glasslands Gallery (NY)

2/9 - U Street Music Hall (Washington DC)

2/13 - The Echo (LA)

"Better Off Without You" by Summer Camp

NEW ALBUM NEWS: TONIGHT ALIVE

2012-01-05T17:57:00.000-08:00

Tonight Alive
photo via Facebook

There must be something in the water over in Australia that's breeding a new crop of up-and-coming bands. The past couple years alone, I've listened and come to like certain bands only to find out later that they come from down under. Temper Trap, Kimbra, Guineafowl, MonaAnnLisa Wilde. And now comes another band from Australia - Tonight Alive, a made for Warped Tour type of band. Sort of in the same category as Hey Monday, Paramore and We Are The In Crowd, Tonight Alive has all the right tools to find success in the States. They just wrapped their US Tour as part of The Fearless Friends Tour and now they're releasing their new album next month. Read their official bio below:

Introducing Tonight Alive: Australia's hottest new export, power pop-punk quintet Tonight Alive, are gearing up to rock the US with their new album What Are You So Scared Of?, due out Valentine's Day (Feb 14) on Fearless Records. Lead by Jenna McDougall, their 19 year old ingénue-with-attitude, Tonight Alive has exploded onto the pop-punk scene with their ebullient, fist-pumping anthemery, arena-sized hooks and high-voltage live performances. Already a name in their native Australia, Tonight Alive turns their attention to the US as one of the year’s most anticipated new bands. Tonight Alive will tour the US with Go Radio March-May and will return for additional touring June-August. Don’t miss the scene’s next breakout band!

WANDA JACKSON AND BEST COAST @ CLUB NOKIA

2012-01-03T18:17:00.000-08:00

Best Coast at Club Nokia
all photos by Bored4Muisc

It was such a wonderful experience to spend my last day of 2011 with Wanda Jackson and Best Coast at Club Nokia. It was a night of giving thanks to our blessings of the past year and to say 'hello' to the year ahead. And this night summed it up perfectly. We all need to give a big thanks to Mrs. Jackson and, of course, Best Coast probably wouldn't be here if it had not been for Mrs. Jackson blazing the trail. And I invited someone who loves music and who supports independant bands as much as I do - Bored4Music who took some great pics and wrote a nice write-up of the night. Read below and check out more pics of Wanda Jackson and Best Coast including a new song "In Your Sleep" right HERE.

Bored4Music excerpt:

We have followed Best Coast (Bobb & Bethany) since our inception back in 2010. Love their sound, it reminds me of Jenny Lewis / Rilo Kiley.

My Friends had the opportunity to experience Beth and Bobb a few months ago when they visited San Fran. Remember, she had high praise afterwards. Not only that, this would be Picksysticks' fourth trip to see them. Is he a stalker? Maybe, but after experiencing Best Coast live...understand why they love and happy they were the cherry on top of 2011.

We had front row seats, right behind the press pit. So, the pictures couldn't have come out better. Behind us, the whole club was nearly sold out. Many of the fans that came for Best Coast left before Wanda Jackson rang in the new year. Not surprising though. Since I first heard of them, Best Coast have become quite big in the indie rock blogosphere.

*********

After researching (Wanda Jackson), had one of those "Holy Fucking Shit" moments. No wonder why she was headlining Club Nokia, new year's eve. You can thank Jack White for dragging this legend out of the chest. She has had recent appearance on Divas Live and current member of the Rock N' Roll Hall of Fame.

(read the rest of the review at Bored4Music.com)

"The End" by Best Coast

Best Coast just announced they'll be headlining The Smell this Saturday as part of The Smell's 14th Anniversary Celebration weekend. Go to thesmell.org for more details and lineup. Tiks are only $10. Also, album news: Best Coast, in a recent interview, revealed their follow-up to their debut album Crazy For You is expected this summer and front-woman Bethany Cosentino is promising a more 'mature' album saying the lyrics will focus on how her life has changed since the band became successful. Happy New Year everyone. Here's to 2012.

See Also:
Best Coast @ Make Music Pasadena

Best Coast @ The Troubadour

TIC TIC BOOM JUST WANTS TO BE IN THE 'FRIEND' ZONE

2012-01-01T14:17:00.000-08:00

Tic Tic Boom performs at The Viper Room.
photo by picksysticks

What a great first day of 2012! To celebrate, here's Tic Tic Boom's newest video. It's for "Just Friends" off their latest EP Reasons & Rhymes. Currently, they're working on their new EP with plans to tour and with help from YOU, the fans, you can make 2012 an awesome year. Tic Tic Boom are offering some cool exclusives at pledgemusic.com which includes a private house concert, dinner with the band, signed CDs, posters and even the oppurtunity to download their new EP early. Click HERE to pledge.

Anyways, check out the new video for "Just Friends" below and for good measure, an oldie but one of my favs "All That Matters" which is off their 2008 EP How to Defuse a Bomb.

"Just Friends" by Tic Tic Boom

"All That Matters" by Tic Tic Boom

Also check out:
Tic Tic Boom @ The Viper Room

RING IN THE NEW YEAR WITH BEST COAST AND WANDA JACKSON

2011-12-30T14:23:00.001-08:00

Best Coast's Bethany Cosentino performs at Make Music Pasadena.
photo by picksysticks

No plans for New Year's? Join me. I'm heading out to ring in my new year with the Queen of Rockabilly Wanda Jackson and California darlings Best Coast at Club Nokia.

Former Elvis girlfriend, Wanda Jackson was recently inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. She was an early influence in the evolution of popular music, especially where female artists were concerned. She released her latest album, The Party Ain't Over earlier this year and has non-other than White Stripes' Jack White and Wanda performing a bad-ass rendition of Bob Dylan's "Thunder on the Mountain." Check out the official video below.

Thunder on the Mountain

Best Coast, in a recent interview, revealed their follow-up to their debut album Crazy For You is expected this summer and front-woman Bethany Cosentino is promising a more 'mature' album saying the lyrics will focus on how her life has changed since the band became successful. Here's hoping we'll be hearing some new songs tomorrow night! Happy New Year everyone. Here's to 2012.

"Our Deal" by Best Coast

MY MOST ANTICIPATED ALBUM FOR 2012: MR. DOWNSTAIRS

2011-12-30T11:45:00.000-08:00

Boy! I can't wait for this album to come out from Mr. Downstairs. They just keep teasing me with snippets of songs, tease me with sporadic shows around L.A., tease me with their awesomeness. Puh-leeez just release the record already and end my suffering. Oh well...until then, here are some vids of songs (I hope) will be on the new album. This year, Mr. Downstairs, for me, was the highlight of this year's Van's Warped Tour in San Diego. They've officially released two singles "Legendary" and "Stranger Danger" earlier this year. You can purchase those songs right HERE on iTunes. And check this out. Mr. Downstairs has been nominated for Favorite Vans Girls Musical Performance from 2011. You can vote HERE. Polls end at midnight on Dec. 31st.

GOLDEN

RADIANT

LEGENDARY

Also see:
Mr. Downstairs @ Warped Tour (CARSON, CA.)
Mr. Downstairs @ Club Moscow

MY MORNING CUP OF COFFEE SONG: LET'S BUY HAPPINESS

2011-12-28T21:33:00.000-08:00

Let's Buy Happiness

A friend of mine had this band's video up on his wall and I took a liking to it. They're called Let's Buy Happiness and they're from Newcastle, UK. Four guys and one gal equals sweetness to my ears. Their bio explains it nicely:

This barely legal 5 piece from Newcastle came together when twenty one year old Sarah Hall was asked to front her little brother’s band. Sarah joined brother James Hall (guitar), Graeme Martin (guitars), Mark Brown (bass) and James King (drums) and together Let’s Buy Happiness began to distil their mutual love of North American alt-indie bands such as Modest Mouse, Tokyo Police Club and Brand New into the polar tinged, aqueous ice blasts of sound that lift their songs into a host of near-celestial formations.

"Dirty Lakes" by Let's Buy Happiness
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HOLIDAY SONG OF THE DAY: SOME HEAR EXPLOSIONS

2011-12-25T15:05:00.000-08:00

Some Hear Explosions performs at The Roxy.

photo by picksysticks

I hope everyone had a very Merry Christmas. Now, it's time to clean up the wrapping paper and get some rest from all those yummy holiday treats I've been stuffing myself with all day. But just when I thought I finished unwrapping all my gifts...I check my email and find out I have one last gift from one of my favorite bands - Some Hear Explosions!! They just put their own S.H.E. spin on the classic holiday tune, "Little Drummer Boy" and are offering the song for FREEEEEE! Just click the link right HERE to download and listen to the sweet track below. Happy new year everyone!!

"Little Drummer Boy" from Some Hear Explosions

My Morning Coffee Break song: MonAnnLisa Wilde

2011-12-23T09:49:00.000-08:00

Hey guys, you gotta listen to this. Her name is MonAnnLisa Wilde and she's from Sydney, Australia but was born in the Ivory Coast. Drawing comparisons to Faith No More, Pink and Avril Lavigne, her debut single, "Last Time I Saw U On Facebook" is catchy as hell. It's an interesting song about what happens to your online social presence when you pass to the next life. Her debut album of the same name was recorded over a 14-month period and she's backed by an energetic band consisting of Marcos Gil (Bass), James Lebios (Lead Guitar), Sandra Lie (Rhythm) and James Mirza (Sticks). Anyways, you can download her single in iTunes right HERE. And while you're checking that out, have a listen at "Shibuya," another one of my favs.

"Last Time I Saw U On Facebook" by MonAnnLisa Wilde
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HOLIDAY SONG OF THE DAY: DOLLYROTS' "MESSED UP XMAS"

2011-12-23T08:38:00.000-08:00

Dollyrots perform at the Knitting Factory (Hollywood)!!

Here's a little gem from the coolest band EVER!! The Dollyrots recorded this Christmas song last year as a contest where lyrics were suggested by the fans and this video is the result. You can download the track for free right HERE.

Currently, The Dollyrots are working on their fourth full-length album after a successful Kickstarter fundraiser. And we're going to get a whole new look to The Dollyrots in 2012 with the new addition of drummer Alicia Warrington. If you hadn't heard, Chris Black left the band in November to pursue other interests. Anyways, they just posted a snippit of a new song and introduced Alicia on their YouTube page. Check it you, yo!

"Messed Up Xmas" by The Dollyrots

NEW VIDEO: UH HUH HER'S "Debris"

2011-12-22T12:02:00.000-08:00

Uh Huh Her perform at The House of Blues Hollywood.
photo by picksysticks

Uh Huh Her just premiered their new video for "Debris" on NylonMag.com. The song is from their Nocturnes album which was released in October. You can purchase that album at the links below:

Get 'Nocturnes' here: http://www.uhhuhher.com/site/store
Download 'Nocturnes' on iTunes: http://bit.ly/q09YIP

"Debris" by Uh Huh Her.
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FREE EP DOWNLOAD FROM RACHEL PLATTEN

2011-12-22T07:59:00.000-08:00

Rachel Patten
photo by Shervin Lainez

Just in time for the holidays, New York-based singer Rachel Platten is giving out a Noisetrade EP for free. The EP features 3 songs off her newest album Be Here which includes her hit song "1,000 Ships." The song has been getting heavy rotation on Hot AC Radio and SiriusXM.

There's also a special acoustic version of "1,000 Ships" plus her rendition of "You're a Mean One Mr. Grinch." You can download the EP for free off her official website right HERE.

Rachel heads out on tour with Santa Monica's 3rd Street Promenade street performer turned superstar Andy Grammer and Ryan Star next month. SoCal peeps can catch her at The House of Blues (San Diego) on January 13th and then at the House of Blues (Anaheim) on January 14th.

"1,000 Ships" by Rachel Platten
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HOLIDAY SONG OF THE DAY: PRETENDERS' "2000 MILES"

2011-12-22T05:53:00.001-08:00

This has to be one of my favorite Christmas songs of all-time. It was a b-side here in the US but released as a single in the UK where it rose to the top of the charts. It's believed the song is about two lovers spending Christmas apart. Happy Holidays everyone!!!

"2000 Miles" by the Pretenders.

HOLIDAY SONG OF THE DAY: BULLET AND SNOWFOX COVERS THE WAITRESSES

2011-12-21T13:15:00.001-08:00

Happy Holidays people!! It's been a super busy week, trying to complete my shopping before this weekend. Ugh!! But listening to this has put a smile on my face and reminded me of why I love this time of year. In the spirit of the holiday season Los Angeles based Bullet & Snowfox has put their very own spin my favorite Christmas song and a holiday cult classic tune, "Christmas Wrapping" by The Waitresses. You can download the tune for free here: http://soundcloud.com/bulletandsnowfox/christmas-wrapping-the

Bullet & Snowfox covers "Christmas Wrapping" by The Waitresses
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Santa Monica's 3rd St. Promenade Breeds Future Stars

2011-12-21T05:27:00.000-08:00

Regulars on Santa Monica's Third Street Promenade, Ready Set Go! just signed a record deal with Warner Bros. Records.

It looks as though Santa Monica's 3rd Street Promenade is the place to be if you're a singer and are looking to catch that big break into showbiz. Just this past year, "buskers" or street performers singing on this famous stretch of pedestrian walk-way has been garnering some national attention with their music.

Just three blocks from the beach and the pier, hundreds if not thousands of people shop on this four-block stretch of shops, restaurants, coffee houses and movie theaters. So it's most likely that a A&R rep or agent will be shopping or having a business lunch or dinner and hear the echoes of the next big thing. Who needs to try out for American Idol or X-Factor when you can sing on the Promenade? And it's not surprising to spot a celebrity shopping. I, personally, have seen the Aerosmith frontman and current 'Idol' judge Steven Tyler having dinner and former Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger riding his bike or reading at the magazine stand. I've seen Dylan McDermott, Cheryl Hines and JJ Abrams do their holiday shopping there. Not far from where The People's Court tape their stand-ups with Harvey Levin, Hey Monday recently made an appearance at Hot Topic at the end of the mall.

Chelsea Williams' national Chevy Cruz commercial.

Just this past month, singer/songwriter Chelsea Williams, a regular on 3rd Street has been featured on the Chevrolet Cruz's commercial singing the Travie McCoy/Bruno Mars hit song "Billionaire." Try walking a mile in her shoes and it's hard to imagine that she performs on the street for a living. Selling over 50,000 CDs on her own, she's made fans literally one step at a time. Just head over to 3rd Street one weekend and if you happen to catch her playing, then notice the amount of times people basically stop shopping and listen. Performing a blend of covers and original songs, Chelsea's simple and catchy melodies highlights her silky, weathered voice.

Darren Criss performs on Third Street Promenade.
vid by TkmasJoanna

Earlier this year, Glee star Darren Criss surprised fans by performing on Third Street. To my surprise, he released his EP Human in 2010 and was singing songs off that album. And remember Q'orianka Kilcher? She was discovered singing on the Promenade and was signed not by a record label but a Hollywood agent. She starred alongside Taylor Momsen and Jim Carrey in "How The Grinch Stole Christmas" and was Pocahontas in "The New World" starring Colin Farrell and Christian Bale.

"The New World" starring Colin Farrell and Q'Orianka Kilcher

Q'Orianka Kilcher performs on Third Street Promenade.
vid by chpnlzt

Last year, another regular busker, Andy Grammer signed a recording contract with S-Curve Records (distributed by Universal Music Group) and just released his self-titled debut album, working with the likes of Matt Wallace (Maroon 5) and Dave Katz and Sam Hollander (Gym Class Heroes). His first single "Keep Your Head Up" has been watched by over 3 million people on YouTube and he recently announced he'll be heading out on his first headlining tour in 2012.

Andy Grammer returns to Santa Monica to perform on the Promenade.

Now, 3rd Street Promenade seems to have worked its magic again. One of my favorite bands playing on the Third Street, Ready Set Go! has just announced (via Facebook) that they just signed a record deal with Warner Bros. Records.

Ready Set Go, a foursome, made up of siblings Sydney, Jamie, Noah and Graham wrap their playful, bouncy arrangements of indie-pop tunes with catchy melodies, evoking the soaring sounds of Hey Monday. But unlike the pre-packaged pre-teen bands who sound over-rocked or look over-punked, Ready Set Go aren't pretending to be something they're not. They may be young, but there is no denying their musical talents. They write their own songs that showcase Sydney's confident and seasoned vocals that sound wise beyond her years. She leads this wholesome-pop band that shines without the flashiness. The infectious "IPOD," or the ballad-y "3000 miles" and the synth-popper "Stop Messing With My Heart" are catchy stand-outs which are sure to appeal to all ages.

photo via Ready Set Go! Facebook

Their father, who usually watches from a distance explains that since normal 'gigs' in venues hardly pay or pay very little, playing on Third Street allows the kids to make a little extra cash to pursue their dreams. So every so often, they'll make the drive to Santa Monica to perform a handful of sets in front of shoppers on this famous strip.

Check out their YouTube channel, consisting of original songs and covers of pop hits such as Jessie J's "Price Tag" and Eminem and Rihanna's "Love The Way You Lie" which has amassed over 2 million views. Along with playing venues all over Los Angeles, Ready Set Go has already toured the country performing on major stages such as FishFest 2010 and playing high schools across the country for the Milk Rocks tour.

Ready Set Go! cover Jessie J's "Price Tag"

Also See:
Ready Set Go! @ 3rd Street Promenade
Apple Store Summer Music Series @ 3rd Street Promenade
Amy May @ 3rd Street Promenade

TIC TIC BOOM @ The Viper Room

2011-12-19T23:00:00.000-08:00

Tic Tic Boom performs at The Viper Room
photo by picksysicks

Mix the early punk sounds of the Go-Go's and then add the moody infectious melodies of O.M.D. The result? You get the girl-powered, indie pop sounds of Tic Tic Boom.

Tic Tic Boom has been having a big year so far and they ended their year on a high note by playing their last show of 2011 at The Viper Room sponsored by SUPERGOODMUSIC with an Ugly Sweater themed show. But nothing about this past year was ugly for this Los Angeles-based quartet. With the release of their EP Reasons and Rhymes at the start of the year, Tic Tic Boom has been the buzz of the town with their electro-pop ambience loaded with a vintage 80s vibe.

Comprised of Leilani Francisco (vocals, keys), Mike Delay (guitar), Matt Gurgol (bass) and new drummer Trevor Hunnicutt, Tic Tic Boom's 5-track EP overflows with saturated textures that free-floats over inventive harmonies. "180 Degrees" is a glittery, slow turning disco ball ballad, "Floodgate" evokes Belinda Carlisle-esque's vocals delivered over aerial guitars while "Pattern" and "Just Friends" sets sparkling synths over soaring choruses.

Tic Tic Boom performs at The Viper Room
photo by picksysicks

Watching them perform at The Viper Room, Tic Tic Boom proves they can write infectious songs that will hold on to you long after you've listened to them, taking you back when the world felt like one big John Hughes movie. Their EP, which I purchased on iTunes right HEEEERE is on a constant loop on my iPod. And with 2011 coming to an end, 2012 looks to be bright for this young energetic band. Currently, they're already working on their new EP which drops early next year. You can help them out by donating to their Pledge Music page and receive some great and cool exclusives.

"Just Friends" by Tic Tic Boom
vid by CaliforniaKerry
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AUDRA MAE AND THE ALMIGHTY SOUND ANNOUNCE NEW ALBUM

2011-12-15T12:53:00.001-08:00

Audra Mae performs at The Hotel Cafe
photo by picksysticks

I remember how blown away I was listening to Audra Mae for the first time four years ago. Self-taught on the guitar and piano, Audra Mae grew in Oklahoma and moved west seven years ago to pursue her dreams. Since then, she had secured a publishing deal with Warner/Chappell, sang the theme song "Forever Young: on the FX's Sons of Anarchy and even wrote Susan Boyle's "Who I Was Born to Be" off Susan Boyle's best-selling album I Dreamed a Dream which sold over 9 million units. Last month, she released her debut album with her new band The Almighty Sound that includes Joe Ginsberg (stand-up bassist), Jarrad Kritzstein (guitar), Frank Pedano (pianist), Kiel Fehercame (drums), Brent Kyle (back-up vocalist) and Chelsea Butts (Audra's sister).

Here's what we said back then:

"Audra Mae’s voice bleeds with restrained heartbreak – something only those who have gone through a lifetime’s worth of heartache can only experience. Her songs are simple and bittersweet yet complex like a fine intricate web... Audra Mae’s strengths rely on weaving inspiring melodies that express a tragic melancholy, proving that simplicity, to the point of near silence, can hold the purest of emotions."

Now, Audra Mae and her band The Almighty Sound is gearing up for their February 14th release of their self-titled full-length album which was produced by country super-star Deana Carter. You can listen to the first single, "The Real Thing" right below. And here's a fun fact - it was co-written by Jackie Tohn of Bravo's Platinum Hit. If you can't wait until the February 14th for the album to come out, you can get it digitally a week earlier by pre-ordering the album her site HERE.

Audra Mae & The Almighty Sound by SideOneDummy

Also see:
Audra Mae @ Genghis Cohen
Audra Mae @ Hotel Cafe

NEW EP: THE SHOELACES by THE SUBMARINES

2011-12-13T10:12:00.000-08:00

The Submarines' Blake Hazard
photo by picksysticks

Just in time for the holidays. Our favorite L.A. duo, The Submarines, are digitally releasing The Shoelaces EP on December 20th on Nettwerk Records. New songs as well as new renditions of older favorites will be included in this six-track EP. You can pre-order The Shoelaces EP at The Submarines’ online store right HERE. Until then, you can stream two songs from the album below!

Their next Los Angeles show will take place at The El Rey this upcoming February 22nd supporting Ra Ra Riot!

The Submarines - Selections from The Shoelaces EP by nettwerkmusicgroup
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NEW VIDEO: YOU SAY FRANCE & I WHISTLE'S "WHEN LOVERS DIE"

2011-12-12T19:23:00.000-08:00

You Say France and I Whistle
photo by CALEB EIKE SMITH

I can't get enough of this band from Sweden. You Say France & I Whistle just released their new video for "When Lovers Die" off their soon-to-be-released album Angry Men. The video which exclusively premiered on myvideo.de reminds me of how fun this band is. Trading vocal duties are Ida, Patrik and Claes and looks like they shot their video during their first U.S. tour at Los Angeles' Culture Collide and New York's CMJ Music Marathon last October. Check out the video below and get ready to dance.

You Say France & I Whistle -- When Lovers Die - MyVideo

Here's a beautiful acoustic version of "When Lovers Die" performed by YSF&IW at a Hamburg radio station.

Also see: You Say France & I Whistle @ Culture Collide

MY MORNING COFFEE BREAK SONG: MADELINE'S "Hurry Up Pronto"

2011-12-09T07:41:00.000-08:00

Madeline

What better way to start my morning cup of coffee than to listen to new Riot Act! artist Madeline. And since it's Friday, what better way to count down the hours until the weekend than to listen to "Hurry Up Pronto" by Madeline. It's off her latest album Black Velvet which she released earlier this year.

Now, Madeline is set to release B-Sides on January 3rd which is a collection of favorites, rarities and previously unreleased songs left off of her earlier albums. You can pre-order B-Sides here on This Will Be Our Summer Records.

Hurry Up Pronto by madelinesongs

KATE CRASH @ ECHOPLEX

2011-12-07T17:45:00.000-08:00

Kate Crash performs at Echoplex
photo by picksysticks

Friday night, the spark-plug of a singer, Kate Crash, assaulted the Echoplex using every bit of the stage during her electrifying performance.

Compared as Iggy meets Bowie with sick dance moves, Kate Crash is better described as 'controlled chaos.' Onstage, she colorfully paces the stage like a caged animal wanting to break free, grabbing your attention with dramatic flourish while injecting you with laced doses of glam-rock and clobbering dance beats.

Kate Crash opens up for Girl in a Coma at the Echoplex.
photos by picksysticks

Recently signed to Joan Jett’s Blackheart Records, the LA-based singer just released her debut EP My Zombie Nation. In it, she bursts open her blinged-out music box and injects torching guitars on “Generation of the Bored” and "Ain't Got Much" then lavishes with razzle-dazzle melodic landscaping on songs like “SAWAGO” and "Yummi and the Sound." But it’s her stadium-ready, rock-anthem “Walk My Own Way ,” which was released as a single earlier this year, that makes you want to rebel and pump your fists in the air singing, "I don't care what they say, I'll do it my way. I don't care what they think. 'Cause I'm the real thing!" And with that, you begin to realize there's a reason behind all this madness that is Kate Crash.

Kate Crash performs again tomorrow night (Dec. 8) during the LA Downtown ARTWALK at The Hive Gallery and then at The Factory on December 21st. Both are FREEEEE.

Official video for "Walk My Own Way" by Kate Crash.
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LISA D'AMATO WINS AMERICA'S NEXT TOP MODEL ALL-STARS

2011-12-07T17:44:00.000-08:00

Lisa D'Amato performs at Facelift LA in 2008.
photo by picksysticks

Controversial fifth-season contestant, model-singer-actress, Lisa D'Amato took home the prize as she won the very first America's Next Top Model: All-Star edition. With the new crown, D'Amato wins a $100,000 contract with CoverGirl, a spread in Vogue Italia, an Express fashion campaign, becoming the face of America's Next Top Model perfume and the opportunity to be a correspondent on Extra. Watch the announcement below.

Meet your new winner - Lisa D'Amato

Also check out: Lisa D'Amato @ Facelift LA

NEW ALBUM: The Dø's "Both Ways Open Jaws"

2011-12-02T06:24:00.000-08:00

Olivia Merilahti of The Dø performs at The Bootleg Theater last year.
photo by picksysticks

The Dø is everything in between, balancing between pop, rock and sometimes bordering rap and folk-rock. Mix all these ingredients together and you get The Dø. Their first English album, aptly titled, "A Mouthful" released last year pulled from all genres of music and included the hypnotic, trance-inducing "On My Shoulders." They were the first French act to score a #1 record in France with an album sung in English. Often compared to artists like Feist, Lykki Li, MIA and Robyn, they just released their second album, Both Ways Open Jaws that has critics singing it praises as ..."A late contender for album of they year" by The London Times and a critic from the Daily Telegraph wrote "Dø are the first French band I've ever heard who are actually brilliant." Check out their vidoe for the their single "Too Insistent" below.

"Too Insistent" by The Do
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CHRIS BLACK LEAVES THE DOLLYROTS

2011-11-30T12:20:00.000-08:00

The Dollyrots perform at Knitting Factory Hollywood.

photo by picksysticks

News from The Dollyrots world. Today, it was announced that drummer Chris Black has decided to leave the band and move on to his next adventure. Here's his statement:

“My time with The Dollyrots has been the most amazing opportunity to follow my passion for music, but I have decided to move on to the next great adventure that life has in store for me. I am going to miss this band and its fans greatly and want to thank everyone for the support over these past five years.”

You can read the entire statement from Kelly, Luis and Chris on their website right HERE.

Of course, The Dollyrots are currenlty in the studio recording their new album. Stay tuned for more details.

Here's the video for "Rollercoaster" by the Dollyrots.

KIMBRA "SETTLES DOWN" TO iTUNES' VIDEO OF THE WEEK

2011-11-30T08:07:00.000-08:00

Kimbra's hit single "Settle Down" is iTunes' video of the week.

New international newcomer Kimbra’s new hit video for the single “Settle Down” has been selected as iTunes’ video of the week. The 21-year-old from New Zealand just released her debut album Vows in September and quickly became certified gold. “Settle Down” was released as the title track of her US EP which was released digitally last month. And she recently took home five ARIA Awards (the Australian version of the Grammys) last weekend including "Best Female," "Song of the Year" and "Best Video." Currently Kimbra is recording songs for her Warner Bros. Records debut album scheduled to drop in the Spring/Summer of 2012.

"Settle Down" by Kimbra
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HOLIDAY SONG OF THE DAY: VERSAEMERGE COVERS "SANTA BABY"

2011-11-29T08:15:00.001-08:00

VersaEmerge's Sierra Kusterbeck performs during Vans Warped Tour
photo by picksysticks

Release the Kraken! As Christmas fast approaches, get ready for the wave holiday tunes to fill your Facebook wall and twitter feeds. Today's tune comes from VersaEmerge as they put their awesome spin on "Santa Baby" which becomes available on iTunes December 20th.

VersaEmerge sings "Santa Baby."
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HEY MONDAY STREAMING NEW HOLIDAY EP

2011-11-28T16:22:00.000-08:00

Cassadee Pope of Hey Monday.
photo by picksysicks

Check out the Cassadee Pope AND Hey Monday Band Page! This past week, they've been posting snippets of new songs off their new holiday EP which drops December 6th. Click HERE to listen to clips of "Holy Night" and "Without You."

And just because, here's their video for "How You Love Me Now."

NEW ALBUM from SLOW CLUB is "PARADISE"

2011-11-28T14:54:00.000-08:00

Slow Club are Rebecca Taylor and Charles Watson.

Slow Club, hailing from Sheffield, England, has just released their new official video for "If We're Still Alive," which is off their new album, Paradise, which is out now. For you "Chuck" fans out there, you might have recognized their song, "Christmas TV" which was used on the season 2 finale in 2009.

Slow Club - If We're Still Alive on MUZU.
"If We're Still Alive" by Slow Club
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My Morning Coffee Break song: bÉLA

2011-11-28T09:27:00.000-08:00

Bela
photo by Mark Maryanovich

Here's a new artist I've been listening to this morning. Her name is bÉLA, currently residing in Los Angeles. Classically trained on the piano, Bela began singing as a way to boost her confidence. She recorded her first album in 2007 and began touring all over the world, reaching the top of the charts and receiving accolades throughout Portugal and Spain - even getting invited to represent Portugal at last year's MTV Europe Awards in Madrid, Spain. While winning the John Lennon Songwriting Competition, Bela was getting airplay on Los Angeles' World Famous KROQ by non other that the Mayor of Sunset Strip himself - Rodney Bingenheimer. Currently, she's working on her sophomore album set to be released soon.

Below is the video for "Do You Care" off her debut album ...The Death of GypsyX.

"Do You Care" by Bela
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NEW EP: GOLD PARTS by CRISTINA BAUTISTA

2011-11-22T19:26:00.000-08:00

Cristina Bautista

Cristina Bautista is 24. She's from Seattle. She writes her own songs and recently released an EP. Unlike other singers of her age singing lush pop songs, Bautista's songs evoke world-weary emotions delivered with confident, mature vocals. Listen to "Utopia," "Heartless" and "The Cyrkle (Champion.)" Soul-finding and overcoming hardships are central themes to Gold Parts, a six-track EP released last September from Local 638 Records. The EP gives us deceptively addictive songs that's more rock than pop and features Bautista going from suffering to power-rock vocals in a single breath. Gold Parts has been described as "...proudly confessional, Cristina's voice is sweet and openly hopeful before a backdrop of driving beats, gritty guitars and the occasional flood of ornate strings. At once familiar and refreshing, the songs are an invitation to find the glowing voltage beneath your own feet and grow old enough to be young."

You can purchase her EP Gold Parts right HERE!

The Cyrcle (Champion) by Cristina Bautista

Cristina Bautista - Long Divisions by Local 638 Records

KERMIT AND DEBBIE HARRY'S "RAINBOW CONNECTION"

2011-11-22T08:02:00.000-08:00

I just had to post this. With The Muppets movie hitting theaters tomorrow (November 23rd), just in time for the Thanksgiving holiday, a lot of sites are posting their top musical moments from the show. Here's one of my favorites - a duet with Kermit and Debbie Harry singing the Oscar-nominated song "Rainbow Connection."

If you remember, earlier this year, a compilation album, Muppets: The Green Album, was released which included new versions of Muppet classics performed by contemporary rock and alternative artists which included a new rendition of the tune sung by Weezer and Paramore's Hayley Williams.

"Rainbow Connection"

WILD FLAG on "Sound Opinions" @ WBEZ.ORG

2011-11-17T18:50:00.000-08:00

Here's a very cool show. Dubbed the only rock and roll talk show, "Sound Opinions," based in Chicago is hosted by rock critics and features exclusive interviews and live performances. Wild Flag was recently a guest and this is what they had to say about the Pacific Northwest group:

Excerpt rom "Sound Opinions" -
"...Wild Flag break through this malaise with an infectious style and swagger that's hard to deny. Our resident music critic Jim DeRogatis gave their debut album four out of four stars calling it "not only one of the year’s strongest albums, but one of the strongest and most promising debuts in recent memory." The band builds up from '70s guitar rock like Television and adds elements of Motown girl groups, math rock and garage punk to build memorable pop songs..."

Wild Flag performs 'Short Version' on Sound Opinions at WBEZ from WBEZ on Vimeo.

Click HERE or go to WBEZ.org to read the rest of the article and watch more of their live set including "Romance,"Black Tiles" and the unreleased song "Nothing."

AMY MAY'S NEW TREEHOUSE SERIES

2011-11-17T07:56:00.000-08:00

Amy May

Today, Amy May, who regularly performs on Santa Monica's Third Street Promenade began a YouTube video series called "Songs From The Treehouse." In the series, Amy will be singing original songs as well as covers. Check out her first offering - "Open," an original song.

Amy May performs "Open."
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NOTHING TO DO TONIGHT? Watch So & So @ The Viper Room

2011-11-14T20:25:00.000-08:00

Amie Miriello of So & So plays The Viper Room tonight.
photos by picksysticks

From The Viper Room:
SO & SO can do just about anything. Whether they’re conjuring dreamy pop harmonies or sliding through soulful beats, the Los Angeles sextet stirs up a sound that’s both heartfelt and hypnotic. On their forthcoming debut album ASAP, SO & SO don’t worry about the status quo. They don’t pander to prototypical pop conventions. They don’t write with the radio in mind, but they do create songs that might just make you listen a little closer.

Also playing tonight at The Viper Room? Harsh White Light, Hell City Rockers and The Vintage Tuesday. Doors open at 7:30 and So & So hits the stage at 8:00.

"Broke" by So & So.
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THE SHAKERS' CD RELEASE PARTY @ The Viper Room

2011-11-14T17:17:00.000-08:00

Jodie Schell of The Shakers
photo by picksysticks

I LOVE THE SHAKERS! So goes the catch phrase from devoted fans of The Shakers. So when the four-piece band with roots in Los Angeles and Philadelphia released their highly anticipated full-length debut album, Oh So Loud!, devoted fans showed up in full force at sold-out Viper Room.

The Shakers (Jodie Schell & Chris Lee).
photo by picksysticks

The Shakers, consisting of lead-singer Jodie Schell, Chris Lee (guitar), Nick Woods (drums), and newly acquired Blane Barker (bass) are quickly building a reputation for their high energy shows, proving they can go from face-pounding, in-your-face rock to a slow-burning, jazzy flavor and back again, holding your attention while unleashing their volcanic rock.

Oh So Loud, their follow up to their 2010 EP, nods to the soulful sounds of Motown, evoking sultry coos from Schell on "Right Now" and "Real Fast Plane," to the booming, high-octane rawness of pure rock'n'roll in "It's Me" and "Gimme Honey." Oh So Loud is a rousing debut that flourishes with each track. There's no mistaking the talent in the group's rich performance.

The Shakers just wrapped up their East Coast tour and return to play back in Los Angeles on December 9th when they play the Irish Times Pub in Culver City. You can purchase Oh So Loud! on iTunes right HERE.

Below is an awesome video taken earlier this year of The Shakers performing "It's Me" and "Right Now."

vid by IsaacSloan

Also check out:
The Shakers @ Sunset Strip Music Festival
The Shakers @ The Viper Room (Feb. 2011)
The Shakers @ The Viper Room (April 2011)

ELIZA DOOLITTLE'S SONG "ROLLERBLADES" IN NEW PRIUS V COMMERCIAL

2011-11-13T21:50:00.000-08:00

From BBC Music:
Eliza Sophie Caird (born 15 April 1988), better known by her stage name Eliza Doolittle, is an English singer–songwriter from London, who signed to the Parlophone record label in October 2008. Her debut self-titled album, Eliza Doolittle was released on 12 July 2010, where it debuted at number 3 in the UK. Since the album's release, Doolittle has spawned two top 25 hits, including "Skinny Genes" and "Pack Up", which debuted within the top 5 on the UK Singles Chart.

Recently, her song "Rollerblades" off her self-titled album, Eliza Doolittle, released last April in the States has been featured in the new Toyotal Prius V commercial. Check it out below!

Introducing a Prius with more cargo space. And more ways to connect to your world. Meet the all-new Toyota Prius v at http://www.toyota.com/priusv

"Rollerblades" by Eliza Doolittle.
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New Pop Tarts Commercial feat. "Different" from Ximena Sariñana

2011-11-10T19:40:00.000-08:00

Ximena Sariñana performs during Culture Collide last month.
photo by picksysticks

Wow. Watching TV, I just saw another commercial with a familiar song. It's the new Pop Up Pop Tarts Joylicious commercial with that catchy tune and the cute pink critters. Although the sample was pretty short, I recognized the song as the intro to "Different" by Ximena Sariñana off her new second album - her first with English lyrics.

She just announced her first headlining US tour which began this month. A recent full page feature in The New York Times praised her new album. A Grammy nominee, Ximena is well known in Mexico as an actress. Musically, her playful synths and catchy tunes inject flavors of her homeland like in her first single "Different" which she co-wrote with Rancid's Tim Armstrong.

Pop Tarts Joylicious Commercial featuring "Different" by Ximena Sarinana.

Ximena Sarinana performs "Different."

Also see:
Ximena Sariñana @ Culture Collide
Ximena Sariñana @ Silver Lake Jubilee

NEW VIDEO: "LEGENDARY" BY MR. DOWNSTAIRS

2011-11-09T22:01:00.000-08:00

Mr. Downstairs during a recent performance at Club Moscow at Boardner's.
photo by picksysicks

Today, Mr. Downstairs released their first official music video for "Legendary." So far, the Los Angeles indie-pop band has released two singles - "Stranger, Danger" and "Legendary," but it's the latter that gets the first video treatment. Currently working on the first EP, Mr. Downstairs, consisting of Asia Whiteacre, Dani Artaud, Jake Johnson, Dre Smith and Chase Meyer premiered the video on Buzznet and to celebrate the premiere, Buzznet teamed up with Vans Girls to give away a signed Mr. Downstairs poster, Vans Sunglasses, Vans Endeavor Booties and a Buzznet t-shirt. Head over to Buzznet right HERE for details and to check out the behind-the-scenes making of "Legendary."

"Legendary" by Mr. Downstairs.

Also check out:
Mr. Downstairs @ Vans Warped Tour (San Diego)
Mr. Downstairs @ Club Moscow at Boardner's

NEW CHEVY COMMERCIAL FEATURES CHELSEA WILLIAMS SINGING "Billionaire"

2011-11-08T13:18:00.001-08:00

Chelsea Williams performs on Santa Monica's 3rd Street Promenade
photo by picksysticks

How cool is this? LA local Chelsea Williams is featured in the new Shine 2012 Chevrolet Cruze commercial singing the Travie McCoy/Bruno Mars hit song "Billionaire." Most likely, you've already heard of Chelsea or even seen her perform on the streets of Los Angeles. Chelsea makes her living busking or performing in such places as Santa Monica's Third Street Promenade and Universal's City Walk.

Chelsea's voice is hypnotic and her rock lullaby songs? Infectious. Try walking a mile in her shoes and it's hard to imagine that she performs on the street for a living. For over three years, four days a week, Chelsea has been carrying her own P.A. system, pushing it through parking garages, setting up and dismantling her gear, three or four times a day. Selling over 50,000 CDs on her own, she's made fans literally one step at a time. Just head over to 3rd Street one weekend and if you happen to catch her playing, then notice the amount of times people basically stop shopping and listen. Performing a blend of covers and original songs, Chelsea's simple and catchy melodies highlights her silky, weathered voice.

This new commercial, which began airing earlier this month, shows Chelsea performing in different cities and locations such as a coffee shop, down in the subway and in a laundromat. Check out the new commercial below.

From reaching from the stars to becoming one, Chevy runs deep and will be with you throughout your journey

Chelsea Williams singing "Huckleberry Sky" on 3rd Street Promenade in Santa Monica.

And here's a behind the scenes interview with Ms. Chelsea Williams herself.

LISTEN: JOY FORMIDABLE'S "ENDTAPES" FROM BREAKING DAWN SOUNDTRACK

2011-11-08T10:53:00.000-08:00

Joy Formidable performs at The El Rey last September.
photo by picksysticks

Today, the soundtrack for "The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn, Part 1" drops and we finally got to hear Joy Formidable's new track "Endtapes" and it pretty much rocks. You can purchase the cd on iTunes HERE or on Amazon right HERE! The movie hits theaters on November 18th.

"Endtapes" by Joy Formidable
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NEW 'SMART' VIDEO FROM GIRL IN A COMA

2011-11-08T04:39:00.000-08:00

Phanie Diaz (drums), Nina Diaz (vocals/guitar), Jenn Alva (bass)
Photo by Josh Huskin

Currently on a 33-city tour, Girl in a Coma just released their fourth studio album, Exits and All the Rest on Joan Jett's Blackheart Records and is already getting rave reviews. NPR says the album sounded like "Desert landscapes, punk rock and a little bit of desperation," while Spinner cites their first single, "Smart" as "taking Morrissey-like inflections and inserting them into a girl-group setting. The result is a fantastic pop performance with a super-catchy hook, new-wave change-ups and chillingly calculated vocals..."

Check out the new video for the single "Smart" off their new album Exits and All the Rest below. And you can catch the Austin, Texas natives when they stop by the Echoplex on December 2nd.

"Smart" by Girl in a Coma
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THE MULHOLLANDS @ Betsey Johnson Boutique (Santa Monica)

2011-11-06T14:01:00.000-08:00

The Mulhollands and Betsey Johnson
photo by picksysticks

With the American Film Market (AFM) in town, the 3rd Street Promenade was full of people shopping, eating and enjoying the Southern California weather. It was also a beautful day to enjoy some great music especially at The Betsey Johnson boutique store in Santa Monica Place where the designer herself made a special appearace - her first visit to Los Angeles in five years. And to kick it all off, local favorites The Mulhollands performed outside for the day's events that included treats from Lil Rae Cakes, a DJ set by DJ Sis and gift bags to the first 150 fans.

The Mulhollands, who released their debut album OH MY! earlier this year are one of the hardest working bands in Los Angeles, playing gigs nightly all over town and even getting the stamp of approval from The Mayor of Sunset Strip himelf, Rodney Bingenheimer. Influenced by the pop/punk sounds of Bondie and the attitude of Joan Jett, The Mulhollands debut album conjures up a dreamy, romanticized Los Angeles that gives you that soaring feeling as if you're high above the hills of Mulholland Drive. If you're not familiar with the group, check out the making of Oh My! below from bass player Jeff Mizushima.

The Making of Oh My! from The Mulhollands

"We Are Children" by The Mulhollands

Also check out:

The Mulhollands @ The Viper Room

Some Hear Explosions & The Mulhollands @ The Viper Room

The Mulhollands @ Club Moscow

UH HUH HER @ House of Blues

2011-11-03T19:26:00.000-07:00

Uh Huh Her perform during the Keep-A-Breast Tour at The House of Blues (Hollywood).
photos by picksysticks

It all started in 2000 by Shaney jo Darden and Mona Mukherjea-Gehrig with the simple idea to raise awareness to young people about breast cancer and the importance of early detection and prevention education. They called it The Keep-A-Breast Foundation and launched education and awareness programs across the nation using art and artistic expression to inform our youth.

Leisha Haileyof Uh Huh Her performs during the Keep-A-Breast Tour at The House of Blues (Hollywood).
photos by picksysticks

In what has been a busy year so far for Uh Huh Her, touring most of the spring and summer to sold-out shows across the country, Uh Huh Her didn't think twice when they were asked to take part in the first ever Keep-A-Breast Music Tour. The tour, which began last month -- the official National Breast Cancer Prevention Month -- stopped by the House of Blues Tuesday night to a sold-out venue.

Uh Huh Her perform during the Keep-A-Breast Tour at The House of Blues (Hollywood).
photos by picksysticks

The packed crowd, there to see electro-pop duo Leisha Hailey and Camila Grey, were treated to over an hour and a half set, mostly performing songs from their newest album, Nocturnes. Uh Huh Her, injects their second full-length album, released last month, with cascading synths, manicured guitars and throbbing beats. It's 11 tracks of pure sonic candy. "Another Case" and "Marstorm" are electro-rock standouts while songs like "Debris" slows it down to a tranquil, hypnotic ballad. Since it's release, Nocturnes has already been receiving rave reviews. The LA Weekly describes the album as "...a combination of against-the-grain grit and pop ambition that live, delivers a little snarl and a lot of swoon."

You can download their new album on iTunes right HERE and check out their new video for "Another Case" off their new album Nocturnes below.

Jarrod Gorbel and Dre Babinksi perform during the Keep-A-Breast Tour at The House of Blues (Hollywood).
photos by picksysticks

Earlier in the night, Brooklyn-ite swooner Jarrod Gorbel opened the show with a melodic set of warm harmonies with gleaming string arrangements from Dre Babinski. I'm his newest fan. From his vulnerable vocals to his simple yet suffering melodies, his songs are like a breath of fresh air. Listen to "Ten Years Older" or "I'll Do Better" and you'll be hooked too. "Optimism" from his 2009 EP Ten Years Older is also a classic. Gorbel who recently announced he was going on tour supporting Dashboard Confessional beginning November 17th in Chicago just released his newest album Devil's Made a New Friend. And he also announced he'll soon be a Angelino, moving from his hometown of Brooklyn to the city of angels. Their loss is our gain. We'll welcome him with open arms.

The Keep-A-Breast Tour ends this weekend with stops at Vancouver's Venue and on Sunday in Portland's the Wonder Ballroom.

"Miserable Without You" with Jarrod Gorbel and Dre Babinski at House of Blues (Sunset Blvd.).

vid by THT8

THIS SATURDAY - THE MULHOLLANDS @ SANTA MONICA PLACE

2011-11-02T07:46:00.000-07:00

This Saturday (Nov. 5th), The Mulhollands will perform for Betsey Johnson at the Santa Monica Place open-air mall. After five years, Johnson will be returning to Los Angeles, visiting her Santa Monica store from 1pm to 2pm. Besides meeting Bestsey herself, local favs, the Mulhollands will be taking part in the festivities which include treats and beverages, gift bags to the first 150 fans and a DJ set by DJ SIS.

UPDATE: CHECK OUT PHOTOS OF THE EVENT HERE!

Check out their live video from Club Moscow performing "Fascination."

"Fascination" by The Mulhollands.

TONIGHT @ HOUSE OF BLUES - UH HUH HER

2011-11-01T17:14:00.000-07:00

Uh Huh Her

Tonight at the House of Blues, the first-ever Keep-A-Breast Tour hits Los Angeles which is headlined by L.A. locals Uh Huh Her. Their mission? To help eradicate breast cancer by educating young people to methods of early detection and prevention. The tour, which started in October (National Breast Cancer Prevention Month), wraps up this weekend with stops in San Francisco, Seattle, Vancouver and Portland.

“I became a part of Keep-A-Breast since like so many others I’ve been directly affected by breast cancer in my family,” explains guitarist Camila Grey. “Luckily, both my grandmothers are breast cancer survivors. Awareness and education are so important in treating this disease since if it’s detected early enough, chances of survival are greatly increased. I’m happy to be a part of something that will reach young and old alike, and what better way than through music.”

Uh Huh Her has been busy, performing sold-out shows across the U.S. this spring and summer and just last month, the electro-pop consisting of Camila and Leisha Hailey, released Nocturnes, their second full-length album which is already getting rave reviews from the likes of LA Weekly who describes the 11-track album as "...a combination of against-the-grain grit and pop ambition that live, delivers a little snarl and a lot of swoon."

Check out their official trailer for their new album Nocturnes below. And you can download the album on iTunes HERE or on Amazon right HERE!

ROXY TONIGHT: SKYLAR GREY

2011-11-01T06:13:00.000-07:00

Skylar Grey

Fresh off her sold-out European tour with Bruno Mars, Skylar Grey hits The Roxy tonight which, not surprisingly, is also sold out. Her debut album Invisible will drop in January and she just released the video for "Invisible," the title track last month. Check it out below.

"Invisible" by Skylar Grey

SOME HEAR EXPLOSIONS and Projectile Vomit

2011-10-31T05:00:00.000-07:00

Some Hear Explosions perform at The Viper Room.
photo by picksysticks

It's Halloween EVERY DAY on the Sunset Strip but last Friday saw a bit more ghosts, witches and zombies lurking around - more so than usual. But if you thought the Viper Room was a safe haven from all the ghouls outside, you were wrong. Some Hear Explosions provided the evening's scariest set with Bay Dariz, Alex Gallner and Joe Herrera dressed as priests and lead singer Ambre Leigh playing the demon-bride in need of a little TLC.

Possessed Ambre Leigh of Some Hear Explosions.
photos by picksysticks

Who would've known that an exorcism could be this fun or this sexy? Some Hear Explosions' Halloween themed show at The Viper Room could've easily been the musical version of The Exorcist - a battle between good and evil, complete with punk-rock priests, projectile vomit and an evil-possessed Ambre Leigh. Top that off with a soaring soundtrack that will exorcise the demons to come out to dance and sing and you've got yourself a nice Exorcist-rock-opera that is sure to make your head spin.

Some Hear Explosions performs at The Viper Room
photos by picksysticks

As usual, Some Hear Explosions put on a great show. It's hard to take your eyes off Ambre Leigh, even with a blood-soiled nightgown and creepy, devilish eyes. But in the end, the power of that holy music, known as their debut album, It's Our Time Now, won out and released Ambre Leigh from the chains of darkness, emerging reborn as the sonic angel we've grown to love.

Meet the band below and see why we're possessed...uh, I mean obsessed with Some Hear Explosions.

Meet the band: Some Hear Explosions.

Also see:

Some Hear Explosions @ The Roxy

Some Hear Explosions & The Mulhollands @ The Viper Room

All Wrong and the Plans Change & Some Hear Explosions @ The Viper Room

BULLET AND SNOWFOX'S NEW 'NEUROTIC' REMIX

2011-10-25T18:31:00.000-07:00

Bullet & Snowfox

Here's a new gem from astro-dance-rock duo Bullet and Snowfox. Their catchy single "Neurotic Nancy" gets spiced up in the form of a Cheap Mustard Remix. But even with this laced-up version of trance-inducing hypnotic beats, one thing is for sure - Bullet and Snowfox's songs are addictive no matter how they sound.

You can catch Bullet & Snowfox live when they next perform at Club Moscow @ Boarder's on November 2nd where they always put on a great show.

Neurotic Nancy (Cheap Mustard Remix) by Bullet & Snowfox
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LA SINGER CHRISTA COLLINS MISSES 'X FACTOR' CUT

2011-10-19T18:57:00.000-07:00

Woolly Bandits' Christa Collins performs at The Roxy.
photo by picksysticks

Singer Christa Collins got robbed during last night's "X Factor" when the judges decided the final 16 contestants. Collins who fronts the Los Angeles band The Woolly Bandits was passed over by judge Nicole Scherzinger when she chose story over talent and picked homeless man Dexter Haygood over other talented singers including Collins.

We're sure this isn't the last we'll hear of Christa Collins. She has a bright future. In fact, her band The Woolly Bandits will play at El Cid in Los Angeles this Saturday. We're big fans. Christa's on-stage presence is hypnotic. Their sound? A cross between psychobilly and surf-rock. But don't let labels fool you. These Bandits can play.

MARTIN SOLVEIG & DRAGONETTE ARE "BIG IN JAPAN"

2011-10-19T13:40:00.000-07:00

Here's the new video from DJ Martin Solveig and Dragonette featuring Idoling. It's the fourth official video of Martin's infamous SMASH series which included the very catchy dance hall tune "Hello" which was used in Trident's Vitality commercial. The music video was directed by Solveig and Tristan Seguela and guest stars Melanie Laurent from Inglourious Basterds fame. What do you think of the vid?

"Big In Japan" by Martin Solveig & Dragonette feat. Idoling.
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MY NEW OBSESSION: YOU SAY FRANCE & I WHISTLE

2011-10-17T10:11:00.001-07:00

You Say France & I Whistle (Ida, Patrik, Claes, Christian & Petter)

From Sweden, You Say France & I Whistle was, in my mind, the breakout band of Los Angeles' Culture Collide Festival. I can't get enough of this band. They're the band with the funny name with the songs that will definitely make you smile. Their debut album, "Angry Men" won't be released here in North America until January 2012 but you can pretty much hear how awesome it's gonna be by checking out their YouTube vids. Their next shows are scheduled in New York with stops at the CMJ Music Marathon and Film Festival October 19th and 20th. If you're in the New York area, don't miss these guys. Be prepared to dance your a** off.

"This is Sunday, right?" by You Say France & I Whistle.

"When Lovers Die" by You Say France & I Whistle.

"OMG" by You Say France & I Whistle

You Say France and & Whistle perform at Culture Collide.
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TEGAN AND SARA TO RELEASE "GET ALONG" NOV. 15TH

2011-10-14T11:34:00.000-07:00

Tegan and Sara
photo by Lindsay Byrnes

Pre-orders begin today for Tegan and Sara’s new DVD/CD, Get Along, which drops November 15th on Warner Bros. Records. Included in the package are two mini-documentaries and a live 70-minute studio concert, with each offering fans a rare and intimate look into the lives of this celebrated Canadian duo. The first film called “States” follows them on their American tour using live footage and interviews as they recap their early careers as struggling musicians. “India,” the second film, follows the twin sisters during their first ever tour of the country. Also included is a 15-track live cd of the stripped-down concert held before 75 fans, friends and family over two days at The Warehouse Studios in Vancouver, BC.

Check out the teaser trailer for their release and click HERE for more info or to pre-order your copy today. You can also listen to streaming tracks from the live album including "I Won't Be Left," "Back in Your Head," and "Not With You."

Tegan and Sara 'Get Along' Official Trailer

Tegan and Sara - "I Won't Be Left (Live)' from Get Along
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FILTER'S CULTURE COLLIDE: DAY 3 & DAY 4

2011-10-13T20:45:00.000-07:00

CSS headlines Culture Collide at the Echoplex
photo by picksysticks

Culture Collide has brought together over 80 bands from from 24 countries, creating a melting pot of diverse music from some of the best artists in the world. It was all leading up to one powerhouse weekend, where CSS headlined both nights of this second annual event sponsored by Filter Magazine. It started Saturday night at the Echo when lead singer Lovefoxx came out wearing a bedazzled Batman mask, starting the dance party that lasted well past 1 a.m, playing arena rock melodies over their playful atmospherics.

Influenced by reggae, punk, dance, pop and rock, CSS epitomizes the musical diversity of Culture Collide. You can see it in the crowds. Different people, enjoying one band whose popularity transcends borders.

Quickly becoming a hit internationally, CSS formed in 2003 and got a big boost when their song "Music is My Hot Hot Sex" was featured in one of iPod's commercial, boosting the song up the Billboard charts and making them one of highest charting bands from Brazil to chart so high in the United States. And they've been making us dance ever since.

CSS performing at the Toyota Antics Block Party stage.
photo by picksysticks

CSS's electricity at The Echoplex continued Sunday night at the free Toyota Antics Block Party. It seems Lovefoxx may have over exerted herself the night before as she seemed to be losing her voice but that didn't stop her from missing a beat. The sold out festival crowd danced to the "Alala," bounced to the trippy-laced "Let's Make Love," while the reggae-ish "Hits Me Like a Rock " got everyone grooving with their neighbors. It was that type of evening. Lovefoxx even dedicated the song "Music is My Hot, Hot Sex" to MEN, the band CSS is currently touring with.

CSS at the Echoplex during day three of Culture Collide.
photos by picksysticks

You Say France & I Whistle performing at 826 LA during Culture Collide.
photos by picksysticks

Saturday also brought back my new favorite band in You Say France & I Whistle who played their first U.S. gig Friday night at The Twonky Chateau at Taix. This time, they played across the street at 826 LA. A back alley entrance and a make-shift stage in what appeared to be a classroom also hosted Singapore DJ, Analog Girl who was just finishing up as I arrived. And as You Say France & I Whistle began setting up, the venue slowly filled, the room brimming with anticipation as word spread about this exciting new band. Again, they didn't disappoint, lavishing the crowd as though opening up a Pandora's box and releasing all the world's happiness upon us.

Decartes a Kant was a theatrical group that played fast and loud against their baby doll vocals. The pitt wasn't safe as they showered the crowd with their spray cans of foam bubbles or confetti. Hailing from Mexico, this indie-experimental punk band are influenced by a wide range of musical genres including rock & roll, punk, bossa nova and swing.

Making second appearances during the festival were Rainbow Arabia and The Asteroids Galaxy Tour. Playing early in the day just as the crowds started to come in, it truly wasn't the same as watching them at night under the stage lights. The energy in the crowd was just different. Maybe it was just too early and people just hadn't visited the beer garden yet. But personally, I wasn't complaining.

The Asteroids Galaxy Tour perform during the Toyota Antics free block party.
photo by picksysticks

Also making another appearance after first performing at The Co-Op on day one of the festival were V for Volume. Alternative rock felt missing during the festival. Luckily for V for Volume, they filled the void. A welcome surprise, this band from Columbia shines with catchy melodies and shows they can go from guitar-driven rock to melodious indie-pop ballad. Listen to "Cheap Universe" from their debut album Providence, released last year, and you'll be hooked.

Asteroids of the Galaxy Tour and V for Volume during Culture Collide weekend.
photos by picksysticks

And hooked would be the key word that best describes my first experience with Filter Magazine's 2nd Annual Culture Collide Festival. What started as a simple idea to get a diverse lineup of bands to play together and party together can only grow with each year. As I wait for next year's festival, I'll spend my time keeping up with the new and exciting new bands Culture Collide has exposed me to and look forward for next year, when I'll be introduced to a whole new exciting crop of artists.

V for Volume during Culture Collide
photo by picksysticks

POMPLAMOOSE'S WEST COAST TOUR HITS L.A.

2011-10-13T10:28:00.000-07:00

Here’s a new video song “Bust Your Knee Caps” by Bay-area darlings Pomplamoose. If you remember, Pomplamoose, made up of Jack Conti and Nataly Dawn were featured in those catchy Hyundai Christmas commercials singing those holiday classics last year. Next Friday, they will performs at Los Angeles’ Troubadour as part of their West Coast Tour. Click HERE for dates on their tour.

See also: Pomplamoose "Up On The Housetop" in new Hyundai car commercials

FILTER'S CULTURE COLLIDE: DAY 1 & DAY 2

2011-10-11T20:15:00.000-07:00

Filter Magazine's Culture Collide 2011 held at Taix

CULTURE COLLIDE - DAY 1

Cultures collided, literally on a three-block stretch on Sunset Boulevard when Echo Park hosted the second annual Filter Magazine's Culture Collide Festival, bringing together 85 bands representing 24 countries. From Brazil's CSS, Denmark's Asteroids Galaxy Tour to Mexico's Ximena Sarinana and USA's Clap Your Hands Say Yeah!, Culture Collide, once again, has introduced Los Angelinos to brand new crop of up and coming artists from around the world.

Kassette performs at the Chateau at Taix.
photos by picksysticks

Not familiar with most of the artists on the line-up, I went into this festival blind but excited to discover new bands. A musical marathon spanning four days and 85 bands spread out to seven venues. The Twonky Chateau at the Taix was festival central, its bar lounge serving drink specials and hosting cultural music nights highlighting that country's representing artists and also their beers. Thursday's offering was the Swiss and Canadian Happy Hour with special guest Kassette from Switzerland who played over dark, tranquil melodies. Kassette, aka: Laure Betris also played a second set later that night. It turns out, with packed rooms nightly, Taix was the place to perform during the festival as it wouldn't be out of the ordinary to catch musicians hanging out and having a drink after their set or talking to fans out in the hallway.

Los Hollywood performs at The Co-Op.
photo by picksysticks

Across the street, stretched along two blocks of Sunset Blvd were three venues, The Echo, The Swinghouse at Co-op, 826 LA and Origami Vinyl. The Co-Op, a fashion boutique by day was transformed into a rock club this night, hosting a Latin flavor with Los Angeles locals Los Hollywood, fronted by Heidy aka: Ide Flores, kicking off the night with their alt-rock sound mixed in with some spang-lish flavor. Revving guitars command this group but it's Heidy's free-floating melodies that holds your attention. They were creating buzz in the Latin rock community long before they released their first EP in 2009 after wining they Myspace Sponsor Your Band competition. Just listen to their first single off that album, "No Te Aguites" and you'll see why.

Up next was Mexico's Ximena Sarinana who's been receiving critical praise from her self-titled second album which marks her first album with English lyrics. She just announced her first headlining US tour this fall, starting in November. A recent full page feature in The New York Times praised her new album. A Grammy nominee, Ximena is well known in Mexico as an actress. Musically, her playful synths and catchy tunes inject flavors of her homeland like in her first single "Different" which she co-wrote with Rancid's Tim Armstrong.

Ximena Sariñana performs at The Co-Op.
photo by picksysticks

We first noticed her when she performed at the Silverlake Jubilee earlier this year, right about the time her new album was released. It was obvious, the crowd was there to see Ximena with the Co-op, so full, it was told to me that it had to be shut down for the rest of the festival due to safety reasons. The remaining acts scheduled to perform at this venue were moved to the Champagne Room at Taix. And this is still the first night . In a hint of what was to come during this four-day music fest, earlier in the week, Filter Magazine organizers announced the event was sold out.

Crowds packed The Co-Op to watch Ximena Sariñana perform during day one of Culture Collide.
photo by picksysticks

After Sarinana ended her set at around 10pm, I had about an hour to kill before Rainbow Arabia at the Echo, which luckily was seven store-fronts down. With a flourishing music scene happening in Melbourne and Sydney, with such acts as Temper Trap and Little Red, I headed over to the Echo to catch Guineafowl, Australia's latest offering. Named as one of Rolling Stone's artists to watch in 2011, Guineafowl, delivers trance pop-alternative danceable tunes that are hypnotic and spacey. Currently they're offering their single, "Botonist" as a free download on their Facebook page. They also employ synth-angel Imi Harper on backing vocals, Lachlan McQueen on bass, Yarran Hominh on guitar and Nick Meredith on drums. If this music thing doesn't work out, they can all make a living as Abercrombie & Fitch cover-models. Does everyone in Australia look and sound this sexy?

Guineafowl performs at The Echo during day one of Culture Collide.
photo by picksysticks

Rainbow Arabia performs during Culture Collide at The Echo.
photo by picksysticks

And finally, to end my night was Los Angeles duo and married couple that makes up Rainbow Arabia. Led by Tiffany on vocals, Danny's sonic landscaping on synths inject a tribal and Caribbean dance beat, mixed with earthy textures. Acclaimed by the critics for their debut EP Basta in 2008, Rainbow Arabia released their latest album Boys and Diamonds last March on Kompakt records. I was also looking forward to see them again Sunday at the free block party.

Great music, great food and great people highlighted this first day of the festival. With a day job early Friday morning, I headed home, already looking forward to day 2 of Culture Collide.

CULTURE COLLIDE - DAY 2

Laura Jansen performs at the Dutch Impact Party at Taix.
photo by picksysticks

Day two's International Happy Hour began with the Dutch Impact Party featuring performances by De Staat, Death Letters and Laura Jansen. I've been trying to catch Laura ever since she released her album Bells last March when she played Hollywood's Hotel Cafe. So understand my excitement when I saw Ms. Jansen on this year's Culture Collide lineup. A lively crowd, there hours earlier helping themselves to the lounge's drink specials was there to greet Jansen and her band who had to follow Death Letters, a fast-heavy guitar rock band from the Netherlands. Switching gears, Jansen wraps her billowy songs with soft, delicate keys, singing of love and loss in a voice that radiates vulnerabilities but then finds strength through heartbreak. Jansen would play a couple hours later at The Echo Park United Methodist Church.

Guineafowl performs on The Loft at Origami Vinyl.
photo by picksysticks

Maybe it was the lack of sleep from the previous night because confusion was the theme for me during day two of Culture Collide. Changes in set times and venue relocations were posted at festival central at Taix. Unfortunately, I realized that a little too late. It's like throwing me off my game. As previously mentioned, I found out later, due to overcrowding, performances at The Co-Op had to be transferred The Echo. In addition, The Reform was moved to Taix's Champagne Room.

Laura Jansen plays inside Echo Park United Methodist Church on day two of Culture Collide.
photo by picksysticks

With time to kill, I wanted to catch Guineafowl for the second time this festival. With a great show at the Echo the night before, Origami Vinyl would be a more intimate setting to catch them. It would've been sad not to fill the store, which holds about 45 people but they did and they played a great set 20 feet above the crowd in what is known as The Loft. Origami Vinyl, an old-school record store was also the place Florence and the Machine handpicked to perform a special gig when she returned to Los Angeles in 2009 after falling in love with it's quaint setting when she was just starting out. Who knows? Maybe next year, Guineafowl will return and play The Loft again after making it big.

Portugal's The Gift was next on the schedule at 9 pm at The Echoplex. Schedule is the key word. I understand bands can go past their time. Delays happen. I get it but nearly 45 minutes of waiting for The Gift to take the stage meant I was missing other bands. Although I was looking forward to catching The Gift, I opted to leave and head back to The Champagne Room at Taix to watch He's My Brother, She's My Sister. Or so I thought. It wasn't. Instead of He's My Brother, She's My Sister, it was singer songwriter (I didn't bother to get his name). Remember the confusion I wrote about earlier? Well, this was it. Trying to salvage this hour, I left singer/songwriter dude and walked over to the church to catch the last few songs of Laura Jansen.

The Asteroids Galaxy Tour at The Echoplex during Culture Collide Music Festival.
photo by picksysticks

11 PM. Returned to the Echoplex to catch The Asteroids Galaxy Tour. Playing since 2007, probably my first exposure to the band came from their catchy song "The Golden Age" which is featured on Heineken's spectacular TV ad. This Denmark-based band, fronted by porcelain, psychedelic, pop-princess Mette Lindberg, shines with their horn section and with their rich and cascading party arrangements. They've taken the responsibility of making the official soundtrack for any cool house party. Heck, they even club-ified one of my favorite classics "Safety Dance" by Men without Hats. They can probably make Rebecca Black's "Friday" danceable.

At midnight, I was contemplating either going home to rest up for Saturday's events or stay to watch this little band from Sweden with a weird name You Say France & I Whistle. Although they were scheduled to play two more times during the festival, I figured I'd just catch them the next day when I was good and rested. But instead, I decided to take a peak. It was at The Chateau at Taix...the hot spot of this festival.

Wow. This was the best decision I made all week. Not only were they the best new band of the festival, they became my new favorite band. Already released overseas, their new album "Angry Men" won't be released here in the States until next year. But the packed crowd at Taix were treated to gems like "OMG," "Animal" and "When Lovers Die."

You Say France & I Whistle plays their first U.S. gig at The Taix during Culture Collide.
photos by picksysticks

If their songs weren't a hint of what to expect from this band, then their stage decorations should have screamed it loud and clear as stuffed animals adorned the stage and musical instruments. And it didn't take long for this Los Angeles crowd to turn cuddly innocent stuffed dolls into soft, deadly projectiles as flying sharks and teddy bears flew above this dancing crowd. Even the band members, made up of Patrik, Claes, Ida, Petter and Christian weren't' safe as they dodged flying rabbits and giraffes. Like being injected with a sugar kick, their songs are like a euphoric drug that bolts through your veins. All this happiness should be illegal or even banned at the border. Give me more and I'll be glad to OD on this Swedish drug called You Say France & I Whistle.

You Say France & I Whistle's Ida Hedene.
photos by picksysticks

You Say France & I Whistle performing at Taix.

vid by musichelp1

So, in the end, although day two began to a rough start, it ended with many, including myself, leaving with new discoveries and more appreciation of what the world of music has to offer.

Day three and four will be posted soon...I promise.

MTV PREMIERES UME'S "CAPTIVE" VIDEO

2011-10-11T11:22:00.000-07:00

Lauren Larson of UME performs at 3 Clubs in Hollywood last year.
photo by picksysticks

This is UME's newest video for their latest single "Captive" which premiered today on MTV. It's off their album Phantoms which was released in August. Ume are just about to wrap their U.S. tour which ends October 28th at Grinnell College in Iowa.

Get More: Ume, Music, More Music Videos

"Captive" by UME.
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DUM DUM GIRLS' NEW VIDEO FOR "BEDROOM EYES"

2011-10-07T09:36:00.000-07:00

Dum Dum Girls

Here's the latest video from the Dum Dum Girls. "Bedroom Eyes" is their first single of the new album Only In Dreams which dropped on September 27th. They've been busy bodies, touring the States all through October and then jetting across the pond to play dates in Germany, U.K. and Italy. You can grab their new album in iTunes HERE.

"Bedroom Eyes" by Dum Dum Girls.
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GIRLS ROCK EAGLE ROCK MUSIC FESTIVAL

2011-10-06T09:40:00.000-07:00

Little Red Lung performs at the 13th Annual Eagle Rock Music Festival
photos by picksysticks

by JPegg

Here’s the part about a few of the female fronted bands that recently played at 13th Annual Eagle Rock Music Festival. There was Little Red Lung lead by the vocals and keys of Zoe-Ruth Erwin. They performed early at 6pm, while the sun still shined bright with heat. There is something about listening to somber echoes in the daytime that does not have as much of a moody effect as echoes in the night or under shadows of candle light. Daytime is not a mood enhancer for music, it always seems, unless it is raining, and it was not raining. The violin of Charlene Huang cried soft and sorrow, but again, did not have an eerie effect as it likely would have during a night show. The sun shining on the creeping lullabies of Little Red Lung was too bright for the listener to be absorbed into their thick red and heavy gasping darkness.

Saucy Monky performs at Columbo's Restaurant during the 13th Annual Eagle Rock Music Festival.
photo by picksysticks

Outside of Colombo’s Restaurant was Saucy Monky. Cynthia Catania and Annmarie Cullen share vocals. Catania is sultry roughness while Cullen exudes a softer shy tenderness. Together they give audiences a feeling of kicking up dirt and washing it down with American bourbon. A sort of pop and Country grinded between the cracked concrete of city streets. There’s an unsmooth rawness that gives their sound an undoubting vitality of hope scraped with scars. Most people probably missed their performance because they had to compete with a jam band playing on the balcony of the apartments across the street, or also, because they played at Colombo’s Restaurant behind a mesh fence that concealed them almost to their necks, while onlookers watched in the streets, leaning on a police car. It was as if they were poking their heads over the fence to sing. What the heck happened there? While in the backyard patio of Colombo’s was an audience of chairs for an elderly cover band. It would have been better if Saucy Monky simply played on the streets. The bad staging area probably had to do with some screwy city ordinance thing.

Cheeto Champ performed at the Razorcake/Zacaloc stage in the American Legion Hall during the 13th Annual Eagle Rock Music Festival.
photo by pickssticks

Then there was Cheeto Champ! They played the Razorcake/Zacaloc stage at American Legion Hall. The place was a little bit harder to find, an auditorium hidden beyond the outside children skipping Family stage and the parking lot full of cupcakes, popcorn, and sugar high kids. Cheeto Champ has that irritable charm to them, kind of like screaming children at play. It may sound annoying to some, but other hears it as humans enjoying their hearts out. Something loud and annoying that makes sense. A releasing feeling of trashing the sound to create the comfort of chaos. Something else to stick a knife in normal. Ladies Adrian Teeney scrapes guitar and jars vocals while Emi Tamura pounds bass and screams her bit too. This show was their record release show for their Get the Giggles album, out now. That’s it for now “crust as fuck Los Angeles.”

"Wildfires" by Cheeto Champ.
vid by 405east
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2nd ANNUAL CULTURE COLLIDE FESTIVAL STARTS OCT. 6TH

2011-10-04T21:07:00.000-07:00

The second annual Culture Collide Festival starts tomorrow (Oct. 6-9) in venues all over Silver Lake and culminates on Sunday with an all-day free block party consisting of three stages with headline acts like Clap Your Hands Say Yeah!, CSS and Avi Buffalo. Culture Collide is a four-day international festival that brings some of the best up and coming bands from all over the world to perform in some of Los Angeles’ premiere musical venues including The Echo and the Echoplex . More than 10,000 people attended last year to watch 54 bands from 16 countries. What’s even more exciting is the mass contingency of women-fronted bands ready to take over Silver Lake during Culture Collide. From Mexico’s Ximena Sarinana, Denmark’s The Asteroids Galaxy Tour to Columbia’s V for Volume, girls are gonna be the headlines at this year’s festival. Just check out some of bands I’ll definitely be checking out this year.

(update: See photos from day 1 and day 2 of Culture Collide HERE and day 3 and 4 right HERE.)

CSS (Brazil)

Ximena Sariñana (Mexico)

V for Volume (Columbia)

Kassette (Switzerland)

Rainbow Arabia (USA)

Los Hollywood (USA)

He's My Brother, She's My Sister (USA)

Yacht (USA)

The Asteroids Galaxy Tour (Denmark)

The Gift (Portugal)

Laura Jansen (The Netherlands)

You Say France and I Whistle (Sweden)

LOS ABANDONED'S REUNION SHOW @ ECHOPLEX OCT. 28TH

2011-10-03T16:34:00.000-07:00

Los Abandoned

Four years after abruptly calling it quits, Los Abandoned has announced a one-night only reunion show set for October 28th at the Echoplex. Los Abandoned will be playing two seperate sets spanning their seven year career with no opening band. At the time, they were known in Los Angeles as one of the premiere up and coming alternative rock bands that mixed Spanish and English lyrics, blazing a trail for Latin American alt-rock. Signed onto Neil Young's Vapor Records, they have opened up for such bands as The Breeders, Paul McCartney and Red Hot Chili Peppers.

"Van Nuys" by Los Abandoned

"Heavy" by Los Abandoned performed at KCRW.
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NEW SONG: "SHAME TO SEE" BY TESS DUNN

2011-10-02T11:52:00.000-07:00

Tess Dunn
photo by Anastasiya Sanchez

Living with cystic fibrosis hasn't stopped 16-year-old Tess Dunn from living out her musical dreams. Hailing from Santa Cruz, Dunn has been playing music since the age of 12 and is already a seasoned veteran of the stage, performing on Vans Warped Tour three years in a row. She released her debut album, "Darling, Just Walk" two years ago. It was a powerful debut for the then 14-year-old. Her songs inspire, pulling from experience and delivered with tender yet vulnerable lyrics over heroic keyboards in such songs as "Silent Conversations," "One Heart's Battle," and "Goodbye Hero." But Dunn's new single, "Shame to See" is a far cry from songs off her debut album. Evoking the punk attitude of Avril Lavigne, "Shame to See" is a girl-powered pop song with rough-chick melodies, reminding us that, even through her tough experiences, Tess is still just a teen and proving that nothing can slow her down.

"Shame To See" by Tess Dunn
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WE ARE THE IN CROWD STREAMING NEW ALBUM

2011-09-30T08:16:00.000-07:00

We Are The In Crowd
photo by Tom Falcone

Before hitting stores next week (Oct. 4), We Are The In Crowd is streaming their new album Best Intentions. They're currently on tour and will hit the House of Blues in Anaheim November 5th. You can exclusively listen to their new album on MTV's Buzzworthy Blog right HERE. Below is the first single "Rumor Mill" off their new album.

Get More: We Are The In Crowd, MTV Shows

ELIZAVETA NEW EP OUT TODAY

2011-09-28T13:26:00.000-07:00

Elizaveta performs at Lilith Fair 2010 in Irvine, Ca.
photo by picksysticks

Today, LA local, Elizaveta releases her self-titled EP from Universal Republic Records and her her first single "Dreamer" is iTunes' single of the week which you can download for free right HERE. We first got to witness Elizaveta's talents at last year's Lilith Fair. She's been getting really great reviews for this EP. Currently playing a couple dates in her hometown of New York City, you can catch Elizaveta when you has her EP release party at Bardot's in Hollywood on October 3rd.

"Dreamer" by Elizaveta.

READY SET GO @ 3rd Street Promenade

2011-09-26T18:13:00.000-07:00

Ready Set Go are Jamie (guitar), Graham (drums), Sydney (vocals) and Noah (bass).
photo by picksysticks

This weekend, I biked down to my usual hangout in Santa Monica to catch some buskers performing on Third Street Promenade. Apparently, musicians sleep in late because it was almost noon and there were no singers in sight. But just when I was about to leave, I noticed a bunch of barely-there teens setting up their equipment.

3000 Miles by Ready Set Go!

IPOD by Ready Set Go!

Ready Set Go, a foursome, made up of siblings Sydney, Jamie, Noah and Graham wrap their playful, bouncy arrangements of indie-pop tunes with catchy melodies, evoking the soaring sounds of Hey Monday. But unlike the pre-packaged pre-teen bands who sound over-rocked or look over-punked, Ready Set Go aren't pretending to be something they're not. They may be young, but there is no denying their musical talents. They write their own songs that showcase Sydney's confident and seasoned vocals that sound wise beyond her years. She leads this wholesome-pop band that shines without the flashiness. The infectious "IPOD," or the ballad-y "3000 miles" and the synth-popper "Stop Messing With My Heart" are catchy stand-outs which are sure to appeal to all ages.

Check out their YouTube channel, consisting of original songs and covers of pop hits such as Jessie J's "Price Tag" and Eminem and Rihanna's "Love The Way You Lie" which has amassed over 2 million views. Along with playing venues all over Los Angeles, Ready Set Go has already toured the country performing on major stages such as FishFest 2010 and playing high schools across the country for the Milk Rocks tour. Currently, Ready Set Go are unsigned and are recording their official debut album.

"Stop Messing with My Heart" by Ready Set Go

Ready Set Go covers Jessie J's "Price Tag"
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BULLET AND SNOWFOX'S NEW VIDEO "SUPERGIRL"

2011-09-23T11:16:00.001-07:00

"Supergirl" by Bullet and Snowfox

Here's Bullet and Snowfox's new video for "Supergirl" which you've probably heard on MTV's newest hit show, Death Valley. It was directed by Behn Fannin and the song is off their EP which came out last April. That same EP includes our favorite "Neurotic Nancy" which you can watch below. You can catch Bullet and Snowfox when they play Club Moscow at Boardners on November 2nd.

"Neurotic Nancy" by Bullet & Snowfox
directed by Jordan Levy

DEAD SARA VIPER ROOM RESIDENCY

2011-09-21T17:52:00.000-07:00

Dead Sara performs at The Mint in Hollywood in early March.
photo by picksysticks

Tomorrow's Viper Room show has been cancelled but don't worry. Dead Sara will still perform next Thursday (9/29) at The Viper Room, their last day of their residency. They return to Los Angeles after opening up for Bush on a handful of Northwest dates.

This high energy foursome is set to release their self-titled debut album on October 11th. We've been waiting for this release since they've been teasing us with the the stadium-rock anthm "We Are What You Say" and the slow-burning to wailing-outcry "Weatherman."

Dead Sara - We Are What You Say
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AMY MAY @ Third Street Promenade

2011-09-20T21:14:00.000-07:00

Amy May performing in the Apple Store on Third St. in 2010.
photo by picksysticks.

I love Amy May. I mean LOOOOOOOOVE Amy May. She's probably the ONLY reason I love riding my bike to Third Street Promenade in Santa Monica. I've never seen her play at night so when I biked down there to grab a bite to eat, I was surprised to hear her angelic voice echoing and drifting in the night air just a block away from the restaurant. I quickly asked for my check and walked out to enjoy her show. Anyways, below is a video of her playing one of my favorite songs, "Real" off her album which you can get right HERE.

"Real" by Amy May
vid by Digital Euporia

JOY FORMIDABLE @ EL REY

2011-09-18T11:27:00.000-07:00

Joy Formidable plays The El Rey.
photos by picksysticks

Since their release of their debut album "The Big Roar" earlier this year, The Joy Formidable have since performed on some of the biggest stages such as SXSW, Reading Festival, Coachella. and most recently Lollapalooza. Last Wednesday, Joy Formidable performed at the El Rey theater and did what they do best – play loud.

Joy Formidable at The El Rey.
photos by picksysticks

This Welsh trio comprised of Ritzy Bryan, Rhydian Dafydd and Matt Thomas, attack each song like it's their last time on stage. Commanding presence, blistering guitars and energized vocals, Joy Formidable played loud against a rich kaleidoscope of colorful melodies. They set the tone early in the night at the El Rey with their opening song "A Heavy Abacus," a heavy hitting anthem song that would wet the appetite of the packed crowd including many who were seeing them for the first time. Ritzy's soft appearance quickly evaporates when she transforms herself into a high intensity and aggressive guitar thrashing banshee.

Ritzy Bryan of Joy Formidable.
photos by picksysticks

Most of the songs came from the debut album "The Big Roar" including alt-rock favorites "Cradle" and "Austere." Joy Formidable, known for their energized shows rumbled for nearly two hours as Ritzy, the wide-eyed, pixie singer holds your attention as she growls over shredding guitars. "Whirring" came towards the end of their set, a ten-minute assault on the senses that had Ritzy and Dafydd kicking stage props and banging the large gong in the center of the stage. In the end, the El Rey crowd left pleased and pleasantly surprised. This time last year, Joy Formidable played downtown's The Bootleg Theater which holds less than 200. This night, they played the El Rey theater that holds over 900. What a difference a year makes.

Setlist: El Rey- Sept. 14, 2011 - Heavy Abacus/Greyhounds in the Slips/Austere/The Greatest Light is The Greatest Shade / Cradle / Buoy / Whirring / (encore songs) The Magnifying Glass / I Don't Want to See You Like This

"Cradle" by Joy Formidable
vid by crimsonkid

"Whirring by Joy Formidable
vids by crimsonkid
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ALIVE AND WELL: MOONPOOLS & CATERPILLARS

2011-09-16T13:51:00.000-07:00

Moonpools and Caterpillars pose for a family pic.
pic via Facebook

The 90’s are alive and well. Moonpools and Caterpillars, who released three (great) albums recently posted new pics of themselves and their families on their Facebook page.

"We are all healthy and happy and doing all kinds of other things. AND we still remember the chords and words(most of the time) to all the Moonpools songs! THANKS for hanging around and for all the greetings!!!! Those days were the best!!!!"

Jay Jay, Tim, Kimi and Gugut during the summer of 2010.
pic via Facebook

The pic was apparently taken when they all met up to practice for possible comeback shows. The family photo, they said was "Taken in kimi and jay's kitchen when we got together to see if we could still play our songs.....WE CAN!!!" They also revealed that they were going to play in the Phillipines for the first time since breaking up in 1998 but it got cancelled. They do still hope to play a Los Angeles show in the upcoming future. Woo-hoo. Until then, we have these vids from their last show ever at The Whiskey A Go-Go on June 6, 1998.

"6 Feet Tall"

"5 Normals" by Moonpools & Caterpillars during a performace at The Whiskey A Go-Go.

"Soon" by Moonpools and Caterpillars.

Moonpools and Caterpillars in Disney's Wish Upon A Star performing "Hear" and "Heaven."
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NEW SONG: SUMMER CAMP IS "BETTER OFF WITHOUT YOU"

2011-09-13T21:17:00.000-07:00

Summer Camp are Jeremy Warmsley and Elizabeth Sankey.

After seeing this video Bored4Music sent me, I wanted to learn everything there was to know about this band from across the pond - comprised of Elizabeth Sankey and Jeremy Warmsley. Together, they call themselves Summer Camp. Their retro-nostalgic rock have made them accidental rock stars when they released their EP last year. Now, with the help from fan's donations via Pledge Music, they have their debut album, Welcome to Condale coming out from their own label Apricot Recording Company and Moshi Moshi on October 31st in the UK. The video below, "Better Off Without You" is their first single off the record which you can download HERE. You can also pre-order the album on the site also. And ratherthan try and sum up this band's history, you can read the many articles already written on them HERE, HERE and HERE.

"Better Off Without You" by Summer Camp.

SO & SO @ THE VIPER ROOM

2011-09-10T23:20:00.000-07:00

So & So's Amie Miriello performs at The Viper Room
photos by Picksysticks

With Los Angeles in the middle of a heat wave, So & So didn't help matters when they played The Viper Room last Wednesday as they sent the mercury rising inside a packed venue. Maybe you can blame front-woman Amie Miriello whose sultry and yearning vocals melted over Raisin Higgins' warm guitars while Brandon Rogers kept it simmering with his sparkling synths like a slow burning campfire.

So & So are Amie Miriello, Brandon Rogers, Raisin Higgins, Bana Haffar and Adam Hanson.
photo by picksysticks

Last time I saw So & So, they played on the acoustic stage of Hollywood's Hotel Cafe. Their blue-collar-esque songs embodies classic Americana which is rich with folk balladry and world-weary rock heartbreak that, when delivered in an acoustic setting such as The Hotel Cafe, can be powerful in its melodic simplicity.

So when I got a chance to see them perform at The Viper Room, I was a little worried whether or not that sound would be lost on this heavy rock-and-roll atmosphere the famed Sunset Strip is known for. It seemed as though I was worried for nothing. Showing they can still shine bright without the flashiness, So & So, comprised of Miriello, Rogers, Higgins, Bana Haffar (bass) and Adam Hanson (drums), performed a confident set of wholesome melodies and warm arrangements, playing new songs along with tunes from their self-title EP.

Brandon Rogers and Amie Miriello of So & So.
photos by picksysticks

So & So proves they can go from heavy wild fire to slow candle burn and back. This night they plugged in and played loud but were able to keep their soft harmonies which wasn't lost against this hard rock setting. Building up a seductive mood, Miriello's steamy vocals resonated emotionally on songs like "Heartbeat Slow" and "Monkey See." But it was their captivating ballad "Broke," that made the night memorable and a lot more intimate. At one point, I'd almost forgot I was watching So & So in The Viper Room.

Since their release of their self-titled EP in July, So & So has been generating buzz and rave critical reviews. Recently, it's just been announced that they'll be headlining the 6th Annual Oktoberfest in New Bedford, MA on October 1st. And with the year coming to a close, there's no signs of So & So slowing down. Instead, they seem to be picking up steam with an announced debut full-length album to be released at the top of 2012.

So & So at The Viper Room.
photos by picksysticks

"Broke" by So & So.

Also see: So & So @ The Hotel Cafe

PICK OF THE WEEK: JOY FORMIDABLE IN LOS ANGELES

2011-09-10T14:26:00.000-07:00

Joy Formidable

UK's Joy Formidable crosses the pond to play two shows in the Los Angeles area this week to unleash their heavy guitars and brit-rock melodies. Their first in Costa Mesa's Detroit Bar on Sunday and then on Wednesday, they'll play The El Rey Theater. I haven't seen them live yet but from what I've been hearing, they're a great live band. Can't wait!

****UPDATE: Check out pics and review of the show right HERE******

Joy Formidable at this year's Lollapolooza in Chicago.
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MR. DOWNSTAIRS @ THE ROXY on Sept. 27th

2011-09-09T15:22:00.000-07:00

Mr. Downstairs' Asia Whiteacre and Dani Artaud.

Oh yeah! If you're in town on September 27th you should seriously consider checking Mr. Downstairs perform at The Roxy. It's gonna be an awesome show. They'll be playing with Tyler Ward, Stamps and Tommy and The High Pilots! Plus, I'll definitely be there! So you can say hi if you spot me in the crowd. Grab your tickets right HERE.

"Legendary" by Mr. Downstairs.

See also:

Mr. Downstairs @ Warped Tour

Mr. Downstairs @ Club Moscow at Boardner's

MY LATEST OBSESSION: TIC TIC BOOM

2011-09-07T18:18:00.000-07:00

My latest obsession is the Los Angeles band Tic Tic Boom. They’ve been getting rave reviews from critics and music blogs including Buzzbands. One blog even calling them “electro-pop-tacular.” They released a 5-track EP, “Reasons & Rhymes” last year and are currently they’re working on a new EP which they expect to release sometime next year. Tonight, Tic Tic Boom plays during the Downtown Art Walk at the 5 Star Bar. And they’ve also been added to Big Black Delta’s residency show at The Satellite this Monday.

Below is their video for “All That Matters” which is off their 2008 EP How To Defuse a Bomb. It’s an old video back when they had more of an indie-punk sound.

"All That Matters" by Tic Tic Boom

BAND TO WATCH: MR. DOWNSTAIRS @ Club Moscow (Boardner's)

2011-09-06T18:55:00.000-07:00

Asia Whiteacre and Dani Artaud lead Mr. Downstairs during their first official show at Club Moscow at Boardners
photos by picksysticks

After Mr. Downstairs came out onstage and finished their first song, "Can You Handle It," it reminded me why I thought they were one of the best bands at Warped Tour this year. Mr. Downstairs is quickly becoming my new favorite band. Not counting their first two acoustic performances at this year's Vans Warped Tour, Mr. Downstairs billed this show at Club Moscow as their 'first(ish) show ever!' And what a coming out party it was for this five-piece band hailing from Los Angeles as people packed the venue to witness Asia Whiteacre and Dani Artaud unveil their new band and new sound.

Here's what we had to say in August about Mr. Downstairs' San Diego Warped Tour show:

"One of the best bands of the day wasn't seen on any of the seven stages but at the Vans Girls tent, a tiny booth located in front of the Main Stage. Mr. Downstairs, the brainchild of Dani Artaud and Asia Whiteacre was formed last year in Los Angeles. Artaud, formerly of widely popular Millionaires, shocked many when she announced her departure from the group to form Mr. Downstairs. When they released their first single, "Legendary" months later, it quickly topped over 40,000 views on YouTube. A complete departure from the electro-pop-dance tunes the Millionaires are famous for, Mr. Downstairs' songs echo sounds of early 60s girl groups like The Shirelles and the Shangri-Las but with a modern indie-pop twist that focuses on cascading vocal harmonies and simple feel-good melodies. With beach-cruising arrangements by Jake Johnson (guitar), Dre Smith (bass) and Chase Meyer (drums), they help create a unique sound suited for driving top down up the Pacific Coast Highway."

Asia Whiteacre and Dani Artaud front Mr. Downstairs
photo by picksysticks

As of now, no word on when their debut album will be released but they have released two songs, "Legendary" which you can purchase on iTunes HERE and "Stranger/Danger" which you can listen to on their Facebook page riiiiiight HERE.

I couldn't find any videos from this show to post (I guess the crowd was in awe of their performance to take any videos) so here's a video from their acoustic show at Vans Warped Tour in Carson, California.

Video chat by Stickam.com

Mr. Downstairs performs at Vans Warped Tour in Carson California.

See also:

Mr. Downstairs @ Warped Tour

SOME HEAR EXPLOSIONS AND THE MULHOLLANDS @ The Viper Room

2011-09-04T21:54:00.000-07:00

Some Hear Explosions performs at The Viper Room
photo by picksysticks

This post is long overdue! Prior to my much needed vacation, I was fortunate to catch Some Hear Explosions at The Viper room. Before the curtains rose at the Viper Room to reveal Some Hear Explosions, you could already sense the brewing excitement in the packed venue with Sunset Strip rocker royalty Barb Wire Dolls and The Shakers' Jodie Schell in attendance. It's been a little bit over a year now since SHE released their debut album "It's Our Time Now." Now, primed to release their sophomore effort, they return to The Viper Room to try out new songs and a new look. And literally taking their show a step further, their new look was a visual entrancing stage show, complete with light boxes that lit up to the touch that was wrapped around volcanic riffs and shout-along choruses. And with an added 20-foot catwalk, it was enticing enough to unleash lead singer Ambre Leigh from the confines of the Viper stage to prowl freely, nearly kicking Vivace blogger's camera, while lashing out her booming vocals on crowd favorites such as "It's Our Time Now" and "Give/Take." Always the party atmosphere at SHE shows, Mulhollands guitarists even joined the fun onstage, playing guitar on a couple songs.

the Mulhollands
photos by picksysticks

Also on the bill this night were power synth-pop band The Mulhollands with front-woman Sarah Jeanette's lush harmonies to make this night even more memorable. Usually solid and saturated with hot chick sultriness, The Mulhollands didn't disappoint. It was truly a great one-two punch of great L.A. bands this night. Check out more nice pics and write-up at Sugarbuzzmagazine HERE. Some Hear Explosions next plays at Club Moscow at Boardners in Hollywood on September 14th.

Some Hear Explosions are Bay Dariz, Ambre Leigh, Alex Gallner and Joe Herrera.
photos by picksysticks
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NEW VIDEO: STAR ANNA & THE LAUGHING DOGS

2011-08-31T06:38:00.000-07:00

Star Anna

Wow. Just saw this new music video for "Alone in this Together" from Star Anna & the Laughing Dogs from Washington. They’ve just released their third album in July from Local 638 Records. With her weathered and tortured voice highlighting the simplicity yet powerful melodies of their songs, it’s not surprising Star Anna’s music have gotten the rave reviews from music critics and by artists such as Pearl Jam’s Mike McCready and Duff McKagan of Guns ‘n’ Roses. It looks as though Star Anna & the Laughing Dogs set off for another tour tomorrow. SoCal will get a chance to see them when they arrive for a few dates in Los Angeles when they play Sept. 16th at Alex’s Bar in Long Beach and Molly Malones here in Hollywood on Sept. 17th. Can’t wait.

Star Anna's bio excerpt from official site:
"When a woman shuts up hundreds of people with her voice, it's a powerful thing. Star Anna--her given name--has been steadily wowing audiences and accumulating a rabid and dedicated fan base (including canonized musicians like the folks in Pearl Jam and Guns & Roses) since she was discovered busking outside a café in Ellensburg, Washington at age 16. She is whip-smart. She is street-smart. She is a private person who unhinges her jaw to release a voice that has punched many Pacific Northwesterners in the face over the past several years—a voice that brings to the table an authentic pain and strength that defies her 25 years." (read more HERE)

"Alone In This Together" by Star Anna featuring Mike McCready. Directed by Craig Brooks and Lindsay Daniels.
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HE IS WE's NEW VIDEO FEATURING OWL CITY

2011-08-30T09:37:00.000-07:00

Rachel Taylor and Trevor Kelly of He Is We during a performance at The Troubadour.
photo by picksysticks

He Is We just released a new video for their new single "All About Us" featuring Owl City. It's available on iTunes right HERE. He Is We also just announced they'll be going on tour with All Time Low and The Ready Set beginning in October. You can see if they're playing in a city near you on their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/heiswe.official .

"All About Us" by He Is We feat. Owl City.
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THE WEEPIES @ The Troubadour

2011-08-24T03:01:00.000-07:00

The Weepies performs at The Troubadour.
photo by bored4music

Ever since I saw The Weepies at Lilith Fair last year, I've become a huge fan of this duo who craft such beautifully woven melodies that pulls at the heart strings whether it be sad, happy or...just being able to make you smile. Anyways, as The Weepies started off their tour last week at The Troubadour, Bored4Music and I were able to score tickets at the sold-out show. Read below as Bored4Music sums up the night perfectly.

"The Weepies have been a fan favorite of mine since 2006, when I first heard them during an episode of Scrubs. The rest was history. Never imagined I would ever get a chance to see them perform live, at my favorite Los Angeles venue, in a special show. But that's what this story is about really..."

(click HERE to read the rest and see more pics and video from that night.)

"Gotta Have You" by The Weepies.
great vid by cunningrabit

Here's another video of "Be My Thrill" from their Fillmore show in San Francisco. Just amazing!

"Be My Thrill (acoustic)" by The Weepies

video by jackknowsgroups

Remaining Tour Dates:

8/24 - Arcata CA, Humboldt State University - Van Duzer Theatre

8/26 - Salt Lake City, The State Room - SOLD OUT

8/27 - Boulder CO, Chautauqua Auditorium Summer Concert Series

8/29 - Minneapolis, The Guthrie Theater

8/30 - Chicago IL , Park West

8/31 - Pittsburgh PA, The Rex Theater

9/1 - Boston MA, Wilbur Theatre

9/2 - Philadelphia PA, Theatre of Living Arts

9/3 - New York NY, Irving Plaza

9/5 - Washington DC, 9:30 Club

9/6 - Carrboro NC, Cat's Cradle

9/7 - Charlotte NC, McGlohon Theater at Spirit Square

9/8 - Nashville TN, Belcourt Theater - SOLD OUT -

9/9 - Atlanta GA, Variety Playhouse

9/10 - New Orleans, Tipitina's

9/11 - Houston TX, House of Blues

9/13 - Phoenix AZ, Mesa Arts Center

THE BANGLES @ The Grove Sept. 27th

2011-08-22T16:52:00.001-07:00

The Bangles' Susanna Hoffs
photo by picksysticks

****UPDATE*****

Looks like the Bangles will be performing as well as signing copies of their new CD "Sweetheart of the Sun" on Tuesday, Sept. 27th at Barnes & Noble at The Grove at 7 pm. Not the 16th as we previously reported. But it looks as though you'll have to buy the cd at the store in order to get a wristband to watch the show...or at least be able to stand right in front of the stage.

******************

Hey now! I just found out that The Bangles are going to be signing copies of their new album, "Sweetheart of the Sun" at Barnes & Nobe in The Grove in Los Angeles September 16th. Officially, their new album doesn't hit stores until September 27th. No word yet whether they'll be performing at The Grove's outdoor stage or just signing copies. It's their first album in eight years and are heading out for an east coast tour in October. Being Monday, I was going to post a "Manic Monday" vid but that's too obvious. Instead, here's a preview of their new single off their new album called "I Will Never Be Through With You." Enjoy!

New single "I Will Never Be Through With You" by The Bangles.