No need for an introduction here, these guys are incredible. Amazing guys with great personalities making music for us all to love. This track is taken from their self-titled debut, due out March 1st via Camobear Records. Get more of The Lytics here.
Lytics – Last Bit (Lovely Words) from Camobear Records on Vimeo.
Pretty damn interesting post I came across… see the insane heat map below. The green indicates positive growth in 2010 and the red indicates decline in visitors. There’s hope! Music consumption and research on the internet is clearly increasing exponentially. Anyways, I’ll let you take a look and interpret for yourself. Click on the image to head over to Viral Music and read up on the statistics behind the heat map. One interesting stat I’ll leave you with is that The Pirate Bay gets more web traffic than MTV. Maybe that’s really not that surprising to most of you. -B.C.
What happens when you throw Benga, Skream and Artwork into a massive frying pan filled with dubstep, and then you drop in John Legend? I think its pretty obvious that something incredible will be cooked up. The three already carry the unofficial title of ‘dubstep pioneers’, but working together, they’ve formed Magnetic Man. Their debut full-length drops in North America soon, and they make their Western debut live at Coachella this year! Click on the image above to see the video for the second single “Getting Nowhere” featuring John Legend, which is just plain wicked. After you watch the vid, come back and grab the song for free right here! Just because it’s friday, and I like you. – B.C.
There comes a day in January each year when I shit my pants due to each years Coachella line-up being announced. The trend has definitely not changed this year, as once again, Coachella blows every festival out of the water as far as I’m concerned. Most of the expected appearances came true including Arcade Fire, Kanye, The Black Keys, Robyn, The National, Ratatat, Cut Copy, Cold War Kids, and Kings of Leon. The announcement once again offered up a couple of big surprises, mainly the return of Death From Above 1979 (which just so happened to cause the moment when my pants were dirtied) and the return of One Day as a Lion! Coachella also always offers up a massive serving of up-and-comers (mainstream up and comers), or bands that spent the couple years working their asses off such as Foals, Good Old War, Tame Impala, Titus Andronicus, The Tallest Man on Earth, Two Door Cinema Club, Delorean, Phantogram, Yelle, Caspa, The Rural Alberta Advantage, and Menomena, to name a few. I could go on and on, and probably name about 40 more artists that I’d really love to talk about, but the bottom line is that Coachella will be amazing once again. I haven’t attended the festival since 2005, but Death From Above seems like the perfect reason for me to actually go again this year, rather than just talk about going. Check the full line-up on the poster below, or here. See you in Indio!!!
Party,
B.C.
The only correct way to begin this post is by saying that 2010 was an absolutely fantastic year for music. Although there are an overwhelming amount of new artists due to the ease and accessibility of recording music, it seems as though we’ve caught up. Now that we’re all getting used to every idiot in his bedroom posting his music, its much easier to ignore the shite and focus on people who actually deserve recognition. Every ‘best of 2010′ list I’ve seen lately has included some of these newly found artists that scenesters (myself included) are proud to announce “I found them,” however, many of them were missed. This list is the best you’ll find, but rather than brag about it, I just want to share the wealth of good music that came out this year. Use this list to find incredible albums that you missed out on this year, or to check out those records that you heard tons of hype on but never cared enough to check out. Trust me, every record here deserves way more attention than it’s already received. I’ve also linked the title of each record to a video or song that represents that album well, or is at least a good starting point if its something new that you’re about to discover. Either leave a comment, or hit me with a note at turnupthemusic@hotmail.com. I’d love to hear your opinions, agreements/disagreements, records you think I’ve missed and new findings I’ve helped lead you to.
AS ALWAYS, YOU’RE VERY WELCOME - B.C.
50. Austra “Beat and the Pulse”
49. Free Energy “Stuck On Nothing”
48. The Acorn “No Ghost”
47. Bonjay “Broughtupsy”
46. Hot Chip “One Life Stand”
45. The Bled “Heat Fetish”
44. Huron “Huron”
43. Booka Shade “More!”
42. S. Carey “All We Grow”
41. Teenage Kicks “Shook Our Bones 7″
40. Major Lazer & La Roux Present “Lazerproof”
39. The Roots “How I Got Over”
38. Jamie Lidell “Compass”
37. Built To Spill “The Electronic Anthology Project”
36. Spoon “Transference”
35. Miss May I “Monument”
34. Bad Tits “Garbage Night”
33. The Hundred In The Hands “The Hundred In The Hands”
32. Delphic “Acolyte”
31. Torche “Songs For Singles”
30. Hey Rosetta! “Red Song EP”
29. Reflection Eternal “Revolutions Per Minute”
28. Good Old War “Good Old War”
27. Aloe Blacc “Good Things”“
26. Titus Andronicus “The Monitor”
25. Ceschi “The ONe Man Band Broke Up”
24. Ratatat “LP4″
23. Of Mice & Men “Of Mice & Men”
22. The Walkmen “Lisbon”
21. Skream “Outside The Box”
20. Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings “I Learned The Hard Way”
19. Eminem “Recovery”
18. Ted Leo & The Pharmacists “The Brutalist Bricks”
17. Phantogram “Eyelid Movies”
16. LCD Soundsystem “This Is Happening”
15. Junip “Fields”
14. Monster Truck “Monster Truck EP”
13. Born Ruffians “Say It”
12. Frightened Rabbit “The Winter Of Mixed Drinks”
11. The Black Keys “Brothers”
10. 
Rusko “O.M.G.!” - I was admittedly late hopping on the dubstep train, but this album was an incredible eye-opener for me. Many of the album’s tracks offer insight into how dubstep can crossover and meld with many other genres, which will most likely be the only way it will stick around much longer. The album title links to one of these examples, “Hold On” featuring the beautiful voice of Amber Coffman of the Dirty Projectors.
9. Foals “Total Life Forever” - If you don’t already know this band from their 2008 debut “Antidotes”, you’re completely missing out. Both albums are full of britpop/indie/electro gems that will make you laugh, dance and cry all at the same time. Start by checking out the video for “Miami” linked in the album title above.
8. Shad “TSOL” - This may sound like a bold statement to most of you, but in my opinion, Shad K has changed the face of Canadian hip-hop, if not hip-hop in general. The lyrics, flow, beats and musical arrangement all combine on TSOL, forming a huge personality that’s capable of converting any and every listener into a Shad fan.
7. Winter Gloves “All Red” - Get ready to be hit with the best indie-pop songs of the year. Although it’s a very short record, it’s very easy to keep the whole thing on repeat for a few hours at a time. Somehow I missed the hype around Winter Gloves when they released “About A Girl” in 2008, but I couldn’t be more happy to join this party.
6. Medications “Completely Removed” - As mentioned when this record mad my ‘best of the first half of this year,’ this album is a NEED for any music fan. It may strike you as something you wouldn’t normally be into at first, but trust me, once you get three or four songs in, you will thank me. I could go into the twelve different genres this record falls under, but I’ll let you come up with your own opinion, genre-classification aside. En-fuckin-joy.
5. Yeasayer “Odd Blood” - Yeasayer seem to be stepping it up a notch with every album. 2007′s “All Hour Cymbals” was very impressive, and “Odd Blood” continues along the same lines, but definitely offers more melody and pop-catchiness that somewhat lacked before….. and they somehow managed to get Kristen Bell to co-star alongside some sort of blob/pet in their music video for “Madder Red” (linked above).
4. Yukon Blonde “Yukon Blonde” – This band may be the most underrated band on my list, not that they’ve been knocked, but more just because their record has been out for almost a year and they still aren’t where they deserve to be. The complexity of the vocal harmonies and melody blended with the beautifully crafted indie-pop music makes this band a must hear. If you’ve always hated rainy days and dreamt that you were able to turn them into sunny summer days, here’s your answer.
3. The Flatliners “Cavalcade” - I can’t even express in words as to how much I love this album. In complete honesty, I’ve listened to this album at least three times a week since its release in April. “Cavalcade” is an epic, punk rock record that gets straight to the point right out of the gate. These Toronto boys make me feel like I did in the late 90′s/early 00′s listening to Lagwagon, No Use For A Name, The Unseen and Nofx. They tour non-stop and blow the roof off every show, just how punk rock used to be and somehow departed from. They dropped most of the ‘ska’ influence that shone through on 2007′s “The Great Awake” and instead, created the absolute perfect punk rock album for all generations.
2. Kanye West “My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy” – Do I really need to explain myself here? I hate Kanye as a person, as you probably do too, but god damn, he makes some of the greatest songs of our generation. This album is just hit after hit after hit, so don’t let your hatred toward Kanye as a person get in the way of an incredible album. Also, Kanye West + Justin Vernon (Bon Iver) = The Absolute Greatest Collaboration of 2010.
1. Arcade Fire “The Suburbs” - I don’t think anyone expected a record this good to follow-up Arcade Fire’s last album “Neon Bible.” To be honest, I didn’t like “Neon Bible” enough to even consider it for my best of 2007 list, but that was mainly based on my disappointment that the band had dissolved most of the ‘rock’ element that blew me away on their first album “Funeral.” I think the band felt the same way, because “The Suburbs” completely reverts to the bands rock/soul roots and easily became my favourite record this year. On top of the record being incredible, Arcade Fire released an insane video that integrates Google Earth with the story behind “We Used To Wait.” My favourite track on the album went from Rococo to Month of May to City With No Children and is currently Sprawl II, but will probably change again. This record is loaded with timeless songs that break down any efforts to classify this band into any genre. CANADA’S #1 EXPORT – ARCADE FIRE.
So here it is folks, the busiest month of the year for all musically apt Torontonians. I just wanted to give y’all something to reference if you’re looking for something to do basically any night this month. I did all the work for you and highlighted the top 25% of shows coming to Toronto this month. The highlights not to be missed begin this tuesday with Delphic and Hundred in the Hands opening for The Temper Trap, as well as Miike Snow at the Kool Haus on Saturday. A couple more you wont want to miss are The Dears residency at The Garrison on the 13th, 14th and 15th, First Aid Kit on the 15th, RUSKO on the 16th, Local Natives on the 19th, Carpenter on the 21st, Hands & Teeth on the 22nd, PS I Love You on the 26th, and Matt Costa on the 31st. Do me a solid and write me your reviews if you hit up any shows this month. Who knows, maybe you’ll actually gain some of my respect and even win some free music/swag. Either comment, or email your review to turnupthemusic@hotmail.com – BeeSee
(click on the image for a larger size)
I’ve apparently been too busy to even remember I have a blog…. but it wont happen again…. and because you’ve had to wait so long for more radness, I’m hittin’ ya with a treat. There have been some extremely tasty records coming out this year, so many that by the end of the year, half of the idiot bloggers will probably forget about the first half. I’m not going to write essays for each record because who needs that anyways? If you really need that, you should probably try to spend more time actually listening to music, because I guarantee you’re missing out. Anyways, here you go, a quick point or two on what you may have missed so far. -BeeSee
I’m going to start with my absolute top Canadian album of the year so far; The Flatliners’ “Cavalcade.” For their third full length, the Flats minimized the ska touch that normally comes off quite strong, and punched through with pure punk rock. I’m not saying the Flatliners could do without the ska, but this record skips the fat and muscle and hits you right in the bone. Every track is amazing, but the couple at the top would have to be “Carry the Banner,” “He Was A Jazzman,” “Shithawks,” and “Count Your Bruises.”
5 years ago I never would have guessed I’d be into anything this ‘electronic’ let alone the genre called “dubstep” but Rusko’s new record “O.M.G.!” is mind-blowing. With this record, Rusko somehow manages to take the deepest, darkest bass beats and make them into party anthems. “Hold On” featuring Amber Coffman (of the Dirty Projectors) is especially just fucking great. Keep an eye out for a couple of amazing “Hold On” remixes being released digitally later this month…. in the meantime, go buy this ‘effin record.
For the post-hardcore and math rock fans, I give you “Completely Removed” by Medications. After the breakup of the influencial D.C. band Faraquet, drummer Chad Molter and vocalist/guitarist Devin Ocampo teamed up with vocalist/bassist Mark Cisneros to form the highly technical, insanely skilled Medications. If you’re into Fugazi, Jawbox or even Sunny Day Real Estate, please please please go find this record NOW. If you don’t know any of the bands I’ve referenced in this paragraph, you’ve got some work to do right away. You’re welcome.
The UK quintet Foals have recently returned to the light with their sophomore LP “Total Life Forever.” The band’s first full length “Antidotes” caught me at first listen with Phoenix-esque blends of indie rock and dance pop, but this record has hit a much deeper note with me. Darker, slower and much more lo-fi than “Antidotes,” “Total Life Forever” proves that summer record releases can still be catchy and dancy without involving sunshine and lollipops. If you like Battles and Art Brut, or you’d like to hear the perfect blend of New Order,King Crimson, and the Talking Heads, this one’s for you.
If you like your indie-rock filled with simple yet catchy hooks and amazing vocal harmonies, Yukon Blonde is going to be your new favourite band. Their new self-titled record is filled with youthful melodies and music that sounds as if its a tribute to the classic 60′s and early era arena rock. Think CSNY after they locked themselves in a room with only Fleetwood Mac albums, and then they got Dr. Dog to play through them. I know, that’s a little extensive, but trust me. Whether its “Brides Song,” “Loyal Man,” or “Wind Blows,” there’s something here for everyone.
I’m not sure why I’m writing about this next record, as you’ve heard about it already, but I just want to be sure that everyone knows about Shad’s new record “TSOL.” Shad has outdone himself on this one, as each and every track continue to blow me away, even after 50 listens. The beats, the lyrics, Shad’s flow and charisma, all contribute to TSOL becoming my hip-hop record of choice this year. Shadrach Kabango knows how to fuckin’ work this world’s ears, without even the help of traditional hip-hop hooks and choruses. Don’t steal TSOL, this man deserves all the money you have.
One of the most loved and hated young Canadian bands are the Born Ruffians. Back in 2008, “Red Yellow and Blue” garnered both great reviews as well as horrible ones. I personally loved the record and disagreed with all of the critics that thought it sounded ‘too immature’ or ‘too whiny.’ I bet some of those dick critics have written quite the opposite review on Born Ruffians’ new album “Say It.” They have matured immensely in every way possible and created an even better record both musically and lyrically. Whether you’re a fan or not, check this one out because its going to be a hit worldwide. The current single “What To Say” is one of the slower jams on the record, but the melodies hit you right in the spine. Check out the insanely rad video for the track here.
Alright, so enough of the paragraph per record bullshit… here are some of the others that didn’t quite make it to the top but aren’t worth missing all together; Ted Leo & The Pharmacists “The Brutalist Bricks,” Ratatat “LP4,” Frightened Rabbit “The Winter of Mixed Drinks,” of course, the Black Keys’ “Brothers,” Good Old War’s self-titled full length, Delphic “Acolyte,” Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings “I Learned The Hard Way,” and of course any and all of the remixes on Miike Snow’s digital deluxe release of their self-titled record.
For all of you still reading at this point… you deserve a little something for getting here. BAM!
The Best From Bee See 2009point5 Mixtape
Although it’s that depressing time of year again when we brace ourselves for a long cold winter, Toronto’s playing host to some really great shows to start off the shitty season. Try to get out to at least a handful of these. At least coat check prices haven’t become as unreasonable as Ticketmaster’s shitty convenience charges. My pick of the list goes to a band I’ve always regretted not going to see; Russian Circles. If you’re a fan of Pelican and Explosions In The Sky, I suggest you pick up Russian Circles’ new album “Geneva.” Although its instrumental, it somehow manages to fuse together a form of dark, raw power with blissful melodies and pounding beats. Check em out December 8th at Sneaky Dee’s.
**Click on the band names and thank me later**
Nov. 17th – Billy Bragg – The Phoenix ($30)
Nov. 17th – Living With Lions - Kathedral ($10)
Nov. 18th – Amanda Blank (opening for Peaches) – The Phoenix ($24.50)
Nov. 19th – Apostle of Hustle – Lee’s Palace ($15)
Nov. 20th – The Rural Alberta Advantage w/Fox Jaws & Bahamas - Lee’s Palace (SOLD OUT)
Nov. 21st/22nd – Brand New w/GLASSJAW - Kool Haus (SOLD OUT)
Nov. 23rd – Fuck Buttons - El Mocambo ($10)
Nov. 26th – Camera Obscura – The Phoenix ($20.50)
Nov. 27th – Devendra Banhart – Queen Elizabeth Theatre ($29.50)
Nov. 27th – Champion - The Mod Club ($15)
Nov. 27th/28th – Arkells w/The Novaks - Lee’s Palace ($15)
Dec. 1st – Winds of Plague w/Stick To Your Guns - The Phoenix ($22)
Dec. 3rd – Zero 7 – The Phoenix ($30)
Dec. 4th/5th – Hey Rosetta – The Horseshoe ($15)
Dec. 5th – Hidden Cameras – The Opera House ($15)
Dec. 5th – Phoenix – Sound Academy (SOLD OUT)
Dec. 7th – Thursday / Dillinger Escape Plan – The Mod Club ($25.50)
Dec. 8th – RUSSIAN CIRCLES - Sneaky Dee’s ($11.50)
Dec. 10th – Moneen – The Mod Club ($22.50)
Dec. 11th/12th – CONSTANTINES – Lee’s Palace ($20, will sell out in the next few days)
Dec. 12th – Patrick Watson – Queen Elizabeth Theatre ($27)
Dec. 12th/13th – Do Make Say Think - Enwave Theatre ($16)
Dec. 15th – Fanfarlo – El Mocambo ($12.50)
Dec. 31st – NEW YEARS EVE WITH ELLIOTT BROOD – Lee’s Palace ($20)
Dec. 31st – NEW YEARS EVE WITH THE SADIES – The Horseshoe ($20)
Featuring BLAKROC and BETWEEN THE BURIED & ME
It may seem kind of odd that I’m featuring two polar opposites, but they’re both morphing what we call “good music” at the same time and in the same way.
I finally just picked up Between The Buried & Me’s “The Great Misdirect” and actually got angry at myself for waiting almost two weeks after it was released on October 20th via Victory Records. I’ve always been intrigued by the band but never would have called myself a fan, until now. The Great Misdirect opens with a soft, yet intense prog rock jam, leading any new BTBAM listeners to believe they are a more intense Pelican or lighter Jesu. Once the guitar intro into the second track “Obfuscation” begins, one will quickly realize the deep talent, intensity and pure bone shredding power of this band. Even though it begins giving listeners a false perception, that only builds on the provocative and hectic spin the band puts on somewhat of a post-hardcore alt-metal dream come true. Although these 6 songs add up to an hour of intensity, the album leaves you wanting more. Not because it lacks a thing, but more due to its raw deadliness leaving you aching and astonished. If the right wing critics of the world weren’t such fucking hipsters, this would be the record of 2009 on most, if not all charts.
And now for something completely different: BlakRoc. I wish I could just talk about this supergroup without naming names and base my opinions only on the music, because it is quite impressive. The problem is that BlakRoc is made up of some of the most influencial people in music, primarily hip-hop. For some reason the Black Keys have been a band that I didn’t pay much attention to. I’m not sure if it was all they hype or what, but they’ve got it now. Old school retro jams with a rad roots rock flavour tossed on top of some loose groove and laid hip hop beats. Yep, thats pretty much it……. but it features vocals by Jim Jones, Q Tip, Mos Def, Rza, Nikki Wray, Billy Danze, Pharoae Monch, Raekwon, and NOE. Yes, HOLY FUCK! Just wait till you hear it. It comes out on Black Friday (November 27th), but for now, check out the first single, Ain’t Nothing Like You (Hoochie Coo). Give me some more time with this one, I need to let the hype settle and focus on the jams.
Young Galaxy are touring throughout October and November with Bend Sinister and Malajube. If you’ve never seen the YG, I suggest you get out to a show. One of the top 10 Canadian albums of the year as well.
