Are Phoenix the real deal? ‘It’s Never Been Like That‘ kind of caught my ear during my 365 pilgrimage , but it was only a flashing interest. Now their new album ‘Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix’ has dropped with two sugaring singles that are so catchy it’s riducluous. And their French. This live video from Jimmy Kimmel [...]

It’s been 8 years since Hi-Tek and Talib Kweli released Train of Thought. Hip-Hop has changed considerably since then (does anyone remember when Rawkus was releasing all the best stuff?), but Hi-Tek and Kweli still seem to be combining to make music as sweet as Friday drinks. The new single ‘Back Again’ is from the [...]

When Tricky sang “Brand new, You’re Retro” I took it to mean a number things in different situations. In relation to music, it’s always important to remember that it’s all be done before. Samples, Guitars, Synths – someone, somewhere has already done it. To me there are some bands that trip over their influences, and [...]

Tricky’s career has never been one that has reflected his talent. Those that love his work will testify his genius, those less enlightened are likely to shun the work he’s done. Even I’ll admit to being confused by some of his work; I found some parts of ‘Pre-Millennium Tension’ and ‘Blowback’ almost unlistenable (though it [...]

Some people can’t stand Bill Callahan’s voice. By those who focus on such things, I’ve been told it sounds flat and uninteresting. Personally, I think that argument is too narrow; his voice is unique without a doubt, but provides another colour in the pictures he paints. I’ve been a fan ever since I was lucky [...]

The internet-indie-hype machine is generally alot more accurate than any paper based hype machine. The dynamic nature of the internet means that a band cannot hide it’s shittyness from the critiquing masses; if your album sucks, everyone will say so via blogs, comments and forums. It you slip enough cash to a magazine, I’m sure [...]

Sonic Youth have always intrigued me. Take ‘Diamond Sea’ from 1995’s Washing Machine. For the most part (the first 5 or so minutes and the last 3 or so minutes), it is a piece of guitar beauty. The gigantic wall of noise in between is horrible. Especially live (I got to witness it as part [...]