Les Enfants Terribles

Reminder! We Don't Live Here Anymore!

2011-05-31T08:24:00.002-04:00

Hey there little lords and ladies. Just a friendly little reminder that this here blog isn't being updated any longer. If you want your favorite DC music folks, you now have two options for reading our stuff.

Terrible Chris now gets his kicks over at Odd Bloggings. For your weekly fill of nekkid innuendo and beaty jams, head his way.

Yours truly now resides at Fuzzy Logic, the place to get your fill of, well, everything I wrote about while co-CEO of LET. Also, shameless self-promotion, I'm now doing a monthly residency at Bella, near the 9:30 Club. Come see some of the bands I love live and in person each and every month.

Thanks to each and every one of you for reading. We really appreciate it, and if there were more hours in the day I'm sure we'd make it a point to makeout with all of you.

xoxo!

Newsflash!: Big Ch-ch-ch-ch-changes!

2011-04-06T16:17:00.003-04:00

Dearest loves, as you already know, Terrible Chris has left the nest to venture out on his own at Odd Bloggings. Well, now yours truly has also decided to pull a new shape, and I'm pulling up stakes to continue on at my new spot, Fuzzy Logic. Essentially, both of our sites are the same in that we're gonna keep on keepin' on with the content you've come to know and love love love. So expect more of the same from both of us, just in different locales. This new change is effective immediately, so if you're a fan of LET, please consider adding Fuzzy Logic to your bookmarks.

Thanks for the memories, and here's to a whole bunch more.

xoxo,
Megan Terrible

Otherwise Engaged: Bare Wires

2011-04-05T17:58:00.003-04:00

It is an unfortunate reality for the serious concertgoer that on occasion, there will be more than one show on any given night that you really, really, REALLY wanna go to. Since the vast majority of us don't own a time machine, nor have the ability to either clone ourselves or split ourselves in half (or thirds or quarters, depending on the night in question), this tends to present a problem. Difficult decisions are made based on a multitude of variables (perhaps some of you even make lists of pros and cons), and ultimately, a show is chosen. But those other shows are still gonna be killer, and I'd like to give a little face time to the shows that, while I can't go myself, are highly recommended all the same.

Who here likes free shows? Yeah? Me too. Free shows are great, especially when there's a killer band involved. Tonight, DC denizens, you can take in some seriously awesome free music over at Comet Ping Pong, when Oakland's Bare Wires come to town and tear shit up. Bare Wires reminds me a whole lot of some vintage T. Rex, though not quite as glittery and with more fantastic fuzz and rough and ready swagger. If you're in need of something fun to do tonight, my little District-ian friends, look no further.

mp3: Don't Ever Change (Bare Wires from Seeking Love)

The Untitled Interview #119: Starring Hammer No More The Fingers

2011-04-05T17:17:00.003-04:00

If you really think about it, friends, the 90s was a pretty fine time for music. The dudes of Hammer No More The Fingers appreciate that fact, and today the nifty North Carolinians release their second record, Black Shark, full of college rock staples and much rambunctious rockery. The guys are always a good time live and in person, so DC kids get thee down to the Red Palace tomorrow evening for what will be one heck of a good time. Below, the three gentlemen Hammer describe themselves for your reading pleasure.

HAMMER NO MORE THE FINGERS!

AS A MOVIE: The Room. Awfully Awesome.

AS A DRINK: Dark & Stormy. Spicy n' Drunky.

AS A WEATHER EVENT: Carolina Hurricane.

AS AN OBSCURE VINTAGE LP: The Kelly Family - Ain't Gonna Pee Pee My Bed Tonight. Please look up.

AS A MOMENT IN HISTORY: The invention of Betamax.

AS A DENOMINATION OF CURRENCY: Camel Cash.

AS A SPOT IN NORTH CAROLINA: The Life Crystals which lie beneath the city of Asheville.

AS A VIDEO GAME/CHARACTER THEREIN: Altered Beast. Definitely Altered Beast!

AS A WORK OF LITERATURE: Savage Trust by Cassie Edwards. Please look up.

AS A HISTORICAL FIGURE: Icke: The Overlord of Reptilian Humanoids.

AS A CAMPAIGN PROMISE: We will bring the Thunder to your Dome. All ya gotta do is ask a' Hammer.

mp3: Leroy (Hammer No More The Fingers from Black Shark)

Singles Club: Thieving Irons

2011-04-02T11:56:00.004-04:00

I'm down here in the mystical mountains of Harrisonburg covering MACRoCk, and it's such a daggum beautiful day here that I figured I'd give y'all a little treat, a nice little ditty that feels totally at home and at peace here amongst the spectacular natural scenery of the Shenandoah.

The generosity of Thieving Irons has led them to decide to start offering free songs hither and thither, and the first such freebie is a gorgeous, stripped-down version of the fantastic "Tow The Line." It's amazing how different a song can sound given a rejigging, and this here version sounds like a completely new song. It's a languid daydream of a song, and I think you're agree it's rather lovely. Make sure you sign up to get more info on the forthcoming free tracks. And don't forget to pick up a copy of the record while you're at it.

&amp;amp;amp;lt;a href="http://thievingirons.bandcamp.com/track/tow-the-line-alternate"&amp;amp;amp;gt;Tow The Line (Alternate) by Thieving Irons&amp;amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;amp;gt;

April 1: The Pains of Being Pure at Heart Day

2011-04-01T08:38:00.003-04:00

You might have grown up knowing the 1^st of April as being April Fool’s Day. But my lovelies, I’d like to suggest an alternative...I submit to you that April 1^st is hereby known as The Pains of Being Pure at Heart Day, in honor of one of my oh so very favoritest purveyors of tunes full of fuzzy, frothy goodness.

With a new record and a tour going on as we speak, TPOBPAH is in the process of making 2011 one heck of a year. If you’ve never seen them live, now’s your chance. And if you’re not yet in love with them, well, there’s never a better time that right about now.

mp3: Heart In Your Heartbreak (The Pains of Being Pure at Heart from Belong) (cheers, Music Under Fire!)

The Untitled Interview #119: Starring Beatie Wolfe

2011-03-30T17:44:00.004-04:00

I want y'all to pay attention here for a minute. Trust me, you'll thank me later. Remember this name: Beatie Wolfe. This little lady packs a whallop of a voice, smokey and sultry and centuries wise beyond her years. Hers is no siren song, mind you, as instead of trying to lead your ship into a rocky doom her voice might just help you find your way home. And DC folks, Saturday is your lucky, lucky day, as Ms. Wolfe will be playing an early show at Axum's Level X Lounge, one of just a handful of US dates. Make sure to stop by and see what this sonic spellcaster has up her sleeve. Oh, and if that's not enough, she's got her own free iPhone app, for all you fancy phone types. Below, Beatie ponders the importance of Leonard Cohen and William Blake, and the occasional stresses of international gig-playing.

Les Enfants Terribles: How the hell are you?
Beatie Wolfe: I’m pretty damn good thank you.

LET: What was the last song you listened to?
BW: Cranberries – “Linger,” yesterday, to remind my brother of a girl he fell for in Portugal when we were kids.

LET: Playing music is:
BW: Infinite.

LET: What album most made you realize you wanted to make music?
BW: Blood Sugar Sex Magic by the Chili Peppers – first heard it when I was 7yrs old and it totally shook my tiny world.

LET: Beatles or Stones?
BW: Stones.

LET: Top 5 albums (of now, of this month, or of ever):
BW: Wow – impossible! Okay… off the top of my head…
1. Songs of Leonard Cohen
2. Lou Reed ‘Transformer’
3. Donny Hathaway,1972 Live
4. Blood Sugar Sex Magic - RHCP
5. Brothers – Black Keys

LET: Favorite music-related movie?
BW: I really enjoyed Ray, but always wanted to rock out on top of Empire Records…

LET: Half-full or half-empty?
BW: HALF-FULL, it has to be!

LET: Which of your peers do you think is making the best music these days?
BW: I think Warpaint, Kid Cudi and Black Keys are doing a pretty good job right now.

LET: What’s the first thing you think when you wake up in the morning?
BW: Of the dream I had and how nuts it sounds.

LET: Little-known Beatie Wolfe fact?
BW: William Blake’s poetry influences me more than any artist.

LET: The greatest record store in the world is:
BW: Hmmm…I don’t think I’ve been there yet.

LET: Shaken or stirred?
BW: Both please.

LET: Best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
BW: “No time to be scared, only time to be awesome!” (which came from my brother just before I performed my unplugged concert at St Pancras Church - oldest church in Britain - last month).

LET: How do you know when you've played a really great show?
BW: I feel awesome.

LET: If you weren’t in a band you’d be:
BW: Full-time songwriter/storyteller and yarn-spinner.

LET: What do you find most comforting/most disconcerting about going out on tour?
BW: Nothing disconcerting so far…oh except, playing a show in New York at midnight, and having just over an hour to make a flight back to London.

LET: If you were so inclined, whom would you form a tribute band in honor of?
BW: Leonard Cohen for songwriting, Roy Orbison for his perfect voice, Sly & the Family Stone for sheer fun factor!

LET: Best song ever written?
BW: Wow. What a question. Hmmm…don’t know if I’ve heard it yet (or written it – haha). I’d say… Archie Shepp’s “Contracts” - no words, but he doesn’t need them…

mp3: 1000 Kisses Deep (Leonard Cohen Cover) (Beatie Wolfe - buy stuff here)

Singles Club: Hunx & His Punx

2011-03-30T17:07:00.003-04:00

Raise your hands, my little daddy-os, if you ever get in the mood for that whole Spector-fied, girl group sound? Yeah, good. What about the poofy prom dress, poofy bouffant slowdance vibe of the late 50s/early 60s? You too? Ok, well, now throw in some 70s glam...as in, perhaps, some New York Dolls, complete with lipstick and all. If you're still holding up your hand, you will unquestionably adore Hunx & His Punx. If you don't love "Lovers Lane," I'll eat my kitten heel. Ok, probably not, but just go ahead and take a bite of Hunx. The album Too Young To Be In Love is out as of yesterday, so make sure you snap it up quick-like.

mp3: Lovers Lane (Hunx & His Punx from Too Young To Be In Love)

The Untitled Interview #118: Starring Bellflur

2011-03-29T20:17:00.003-04:00

Oh hey. Well would you look at that, my fluffy little chickadees, it's nearly April. This means, of course, that there are only 4, count 'em 4, days until the super shindig of much awesomeness at the Bellflur Warehouse, sponsored by yours truly. Obviously, your plans for Saturday are now made, local friends. In honor of this most monumental of occasions, and because y'all know I like to get a little crazy now and then, we're gonna do a little something weird and wonderful with the Bellflurians. I now present to you the special edition Untitled Interview, starring the wild and wooly gang. Read on and be inspired. And make sure you don't miss out Saturday night.

BELLFLUR!

AS A MOVIE: Bellflur is The Edge - Alec Baldwin represents the youth and rebellion of the 20-somethings in the group while Anthony Hopkins brings the grace and temperament of the 30-somethings. As with most movies, the Edge mirrors a typical experience we find ourselves in. The bear (Bellflur) has eaten Patrick (thinking he was a punk smaller bear - the chest hair did it I think), and has now been hunting down the rest of us. Our only hope is to find an abandoned hunting lodge, heal the 20-somethings broken leg (don’t ask - kids think they know everything) with our tempered wisdom and hope that they don’t, in turn, grab the hunting rifle and shoot us in the backs once we finish writing our newest song and then head down river back to the world, telling everyone that we died so that they could live. The worst part of course, being that we didn't go back to eat that little squirrel we captured with the make-shift trap after the helicopter distracted us and we gave the kids a lesson on turning ice into fire. A must-see for all musicians before they go on tour. Cautionary tale. (Carlos) FIRE FROM ICE, BOB!!!

AS A DRINK: Bellflur is............"as Tom lay dying from a musket shot to the groin during an ill-advised civil war reenactment, and using a nearby horse bucket as a grandiose mixer, Eamonn poured in the rest of his cognac, Patrick his whiskey, Carlos his Jamaican rum, Mike his champagne. As would be red-cross nurses, Dana and Susan ran down from afar with lemons and sugar to cut the strength of this potion. The mixture, naturally, was a potent concoction (known in many circles as Chatham Artillery Punch) made to ease Tom's suffering... but each of the contributors tested this new elixir to ensure it would provide the desired result... intoxication ensued and Tom died..." (Patrick)

AS A WEATHER EVENT: Bellflur is either a summer day sunny rainstorm, a la John Fogerty's eternal question, or a quiet winter snow fall during the night. Or a tornado made of cotton-tail rabbits in the South Plains area of Texas.

AS AN OBSCURE VINTAGE LP: Bellflur is the one with a fantastic looking cover, but with no text. You buy it, secretly for the cute girl behind the perfume counter (yes the cover is airbrushed incredibly) but you never tell anyone that. It becomes a mainstay on your vinyl playlist for several months but as your hopes to discern who the band are begin to fade, you tighten the reigns on playing the album. You live in a land before the internet and no one knows what you are talking about when tell them of the album, and the folks at Tower Records don't have the import information you need. (They don't appear overly concerned with your questions despite your haphazardly looking stumble up the escalator:

To go to Lake Forest Mall and try your luck at Sam Goodies, turn to page 23
To call your crazy uncle whose clothes smell like the art teachers closet, turn to page 75

AS A MOMENT IN HISTORY: Bellflur is.........wait, what was the exact moment the world become pregnant with democracy? Cuz that is the moment. I think that makes our parents French. ......which explains the name. ...... which explains the 8 years of French I took despite being told the name Carlos is Spanish.

Or, Bellflur is the moment the winner of the Clear Cola Wars was tabulated. but for real, probably the French thing.

AS A DENOMINATION OF CURRENCY: Bellflur is the equivalent of 0.00001 former Spanish pesetas. Though still in circulation following the collapse of the Bellflur nation, bellflurs (abbreviated as BFR) are not exchangeable in the United States or the European Union... However (and very coincidentally), they can be successfully used to operate a few remaining childrens’ merry-go-rounds at certain McDonald's in the Czech Republic. (Patrick) WHAT! That’s crazy!!!

AS A SPOT IN DC: Bellflur is every left turn on U St when you are in the left lane trying get around the traffic on the right in order to get to DC9 to unload your gear. It looks like its going to get you there quick, but then you have to wait for it, arrrrggggghhh, shit, its going now, I think we will have time to.....arrgrrggghhhhhhh. Jazz drivers might appreciate these vicious changes in tempo and phrasing, but it’s lost on everyone else.

AS A VIDEO GAME/CHARACTER THEREIN: Bellflur is MarioKart for the Wii. I think we've all spent hours playing Mario Kart. This game encompasses it all: Mario, cars, motorcycles, weapons, trippy colors and the ability to bring you from joy to rage in a spilt second. Fuck Rainbow Road. (Tom) Tom forgot to mention that all of those things also encompass our music. Including a general hatred for Rainbow Road (except for me, I like Rainbow Road). Also, everyone in Bellflur has their own Wii. We race as ourselves. Against the world, but generally regional play, our internet suxorz.

AS A WORK OF LITERATURE: Bellflur is a Bill Watterson cartoon of the Brothers Karamazov: Patrick is Fyodor, Tom is Dmitri and Carlos is Ivan. Obviously, I'm Agrafena. And Mike and Eamonn and Susan are Calvin, Hobbes and Susie Derkins, respectively. (Dana)

AS A HISTORICAL FIGURE: Bellflur is Stravinsky after being booed offstage during the Rites of Spring, walking through the audience with his middle fingers aloft. Cursing and spitting and headbutting anyone who gets in his way. Is that a gun or a flask in Bell-Vinsky's coat pocket? I wouldn't wager a guess if I were you. Your best bet is to throw down your fancy white gloves, take your shot and see what fate has in store for you and your once-handsome faux-coif.

AS A CAMPAIGN PROMISE: Bellflur is going to ruin your life.

mp3: Insect Politics (Bellflur from asleep.asleep.)

On The Road Again: Eternal Summers

2011-03-29T19:59:00.002-04:00

Y'all, sometimes it is so, SO easy to make me happy. I mean, all you have to do is tell me some wonderful piece of news, like that one of my most favorite (I'm trying not to play favorites for a minute) Virginia bands is going out on tour again. Instant glee. Throw in the news that a new EP is due out mid-April, and you might just have made my dang day. For real. If you haven't yet had the massive pleasure that is a night out with the jingle jangle shimmy lovers Eternal Summers, well, now's your chance to change that huge, huge seriously wrong wrongness.

4/10 - Ottobar - Baltimore, MD *
4/11 - DC9 - Washington, DC *
4/15 - Record Release Party @ Glasslands - Brooklyn, NY %
4/16 - Cake Shop - New York, NY
5/18 - Beachland Tavern - Cleveland, OH $
5/19 - Magic Stick Lounge - Detroit, MI $
5/20 - Empty Bottle - Chicago, IL $
5/21 - 7th Street Entry - Minneapolis, MN $
5/22 - Aquarium - Fargo, ND $
5/24 - The Badlander - Missoula, MT $
5/25 - CRAFT House - Moscow, ID $
5/26 - Media Club - Vancouver, BC $
5/27 - Healthy Times Fun Club - Seattle, WA $
5/28 - East End - Portland, OR $
5/29 - San Francisco Popfest @ Hemlock - San Francisco, CA $
5/31 - Free Instore @ Origami (5pm) - Los Angeles, CA $
5/31 - Echo - Los Angeles, CA $
6/1 - Casbah - San Diego, CA $
6/4 - Chaos in Tejas - Austin, TX $
6/5 - Free Press Summer Fest - Houston, TX $
6/6 - The Saint - New Orleans, LA $
6/7 - The Nick - Birmingham, AL $
6/8 - The Earl - Atlanta, GA $
6/9 - The Milestone - Charlotte, NC $

* w/ Cloud Nothings
% w/ Dream Diary, Golden Dogs, and Lyonnais
$ w/ The Beets

mp3: Prisoner (Eternal Summers from the forthcoming Prisoner EP)

Otherwise Engaged: Starfucker/Casiokids

2011-03-29T19:43:00.002-04:00

It is an unfortunate reality for the serious concertgoer that on occasion, there will be more than one show on any given night that you really, really, REALLY wanna go to. Since the vast majority of us don't own a time machine, nor have the ability to either clone ourselves or split ourselves in half (or thirds or quarters, depending on the night in question), this tends to present a problem. Difficult decisions are made based on a multitude of variables (perhaps some of you even make lists of pros and cons), and ultimately, a show is chosen. But those other shows are still gonna be killer, and I'd like to give a little face time to the shows that, while I can't go myself, are highly recommended all the same.

Oh, Spring. You're such a tease. Don't let the Winter weather fool you, my loves, this is most assuredly Spring. How do I know? Because there are too many daggum good shows all at the same time, that's how. For instance, you might find yourself unsure of which awesome show to go to Wednesday evening. One of your choices is the super radness of thinking-man dance maniacs Starfucker, coming to spread their rainbow-flavored rollicking roller disco lusciousness with a serious side. all over this here city. They've been mercifully released from SXSW-related incarceration to spread their party love to the masses. Go forth and have a grand ole time.

mp3: Death As a Fetish (Starfucker from Reptilians)

Singles Club: Craft Spells

2011-03-27T15:09:00.003-04:00

Lo and behold, the 80s, decade of bad fashion and frightening hair though it was, have proven to be ripely inspirational for a whole generation of bands now churning out some lovely, lovely music. Latest case in point: Craft Spells.

"You Should Close The Door" reminds me a whole lot of a lo-fi, bedroom version of the glorious New Order gem "Ceremony." Not so much in terms of lyrical content, but the arch beauty of the bringing together of sounds both mournful and uplifting, and those certain transcendent moments you'll hear in both songs. Heck, the cover of the Craft Spells record even calls to mind New Order's rose-covered Power, Corruption & Lies. Worthy inspiration for a very worthy band. Mama like.

mp3: You Should Close The Door (Craft Spells from the forthcoming Idle Labor)

Video Vixens: MAKE OUT

2011-03-27T14:48:00.003-04:00

Some of us are afflicted with an inherent, deeply-rooted lust for the chase. If it comes too easily, we just don't want it. It's a feeling that applies to a whole lotta stuff, but particularly matters of the heart. So naturally, bearing this in mind, I kinda sorta love this here song by MAKE OUT. It's a sentiment I've had on oh so many occasions, and they've wrapped it up nicely in this little ditty and the accompanying video for "I Don't Want Anybody That Wants Me."

The song toes the line between badass, sassy rock and campy silliness, though the video definitely stays more towards the latter with the bright colors, oversize flowers, and goofy facial expressions on the band. It's a super fun song, and a super super fun video. And it kinda makes me feel a little justified. Just a smidge.

mp3: I Don't Want Anybody That Wants Me (MAKE OUT from the HOW TO EP)

Live Review: A Place To Bury Strangers/Hooray For Earth @ Motorco, 3/11/2011

2011-03-27T13:09:00.002-04:00

If there's one thing I love, my friends, it's hitting the road for an out of town show. It feels like a teensy vacation, venturing outside state lines to go see some music at a club outside your usual circle of venues. And Durham's Motorco might just be my favorite non-local spot within driving distance. So give me the chance to go see two amazing live bands at such a great venue and odds are good I'll make the trip. Even with all that hideous DC metro Friday evening traffic. But damned if Hooray for Earth and A Place to Bury Strangers weren't worth the trip and then some. I don't really know what else could be better on a Friday night.

Hooray for Earth, some of my new favorite New Yorkers, are definitely a special live band. They have this certain feel to them, a rush of breathless, frenetic yet totally chill energy. It's the sound of the promise of beautiful warm weather, and to my winter coat-wearing ears they sounded simply delightful. To me, they're at their best when bouncing all over the place sonically, buoyed by lively drums and an inescapable feeling of excitement. At times, the room lacked a little intensity, but I think a big part of that was the drunken, basketball-glutted Duke and UNC fans in attendance. Taking cues from their lovely noise, the accompanying background images were a collection of swirling, dizzying colors and shapes. Big, clunky riffs and an uneven, awesome drum beat hallmarked a lot of the songs from their upcoming LP. "The barbecue truck is fuckin' rad," they opined between killer songs that went by much too quickly. Initially, I wasn't quite sold on this tour pairing, but having seen Hooray for Earth again, and heard more of their great, great songs, I think it totally made sense. In a way, they're like the sunshine to the stormcloud of animalistic aggression that is A Place to Bury Strangers. They didn't even throw my jam ("Surrounded by Your Friends") into the set, and they were still daggum fantastic.

So too was A Place to Bury Strangers. They've been just about flawless each and every time I've seen them, and are without a doubt one of my favorite live bands. And I made damn sure to have myself some earplugs for this one. The crowd was still on the lackluster side for their set, but the band played like they didn't notice. One song in, Oliver was already going gangbusters with his guitar-playing contortions and herky jerky moves, a precursor of the awesomeness to come. They weren't, as usual, big on banter, but early on we were informed that drummer Jay Space had a broken collarbone. After their set, I'd have said I didn't believe it. He, and the rest of the band, carried out their industrialized shoegaze with gusto. "Deadbeat," one of my most-loved APTBS songs, sounded about as good as I've ever heard, with that growling bassline and Oliver's onslaught of vicious guitar noise. The guitar bore the brunt, too, ending up tossed across the stage before the song was over. My most favorite song came right after, an extra feedbacked and extra slinky rendition of "Ego Death." It was nothing short of ferocious. The trio gritted and grimed and fuzzed and tore their way through their set with much savage force. And I ate up every last minute. Also notable was "I Lived My Life to Stand in the Shadow of Your Heart," which might have been my favorite song of the night. The black and white ballerina projections were the perfect juxtaposition to the sheer brutality of the merciless fuzz. The instrumentation in this song in particular was nigh on epic. This is a band that taps into some amazing energy when they get together on a stage, and if you haven't yet seen them live, well, you'll want to amend that as soon as possible.

Despite the blase attitude of the basketball-hungover crowd, both of these bands killed it at Motorco. It was a great tour pairing, and both of these bands should be seen live whenever possible. Trust.

mp3: Comfortable, Comparable (Hooray for Earth from the Momo EP)

mp3: In Your Heart (A Place to Bury Strangers from Exploding Head)

[photo by Megan Petty - Philly, 2010]

Singles Club: Girls Names

2011-03-26T10:04:00.005-04:00

Sad but true: I've never been to Ireland (Northern or otherwise). However, if Girls Names is any indication, I'm missing out. This band cherrypicks bits and bobs from the best of the best (you might hear shades of Orange Juice, Josef K, The Zombies, and even Joy Division), and "Seánce on a Wet Afternoon" is oh so wonderful, from the underlying slightly sinister surfiness to the fuzz that hallmarks so many great older records. Girls Names wears their inspiration very, very well.

This song is impossible to resist, and I eagerly await the Girls Names invasion. New record Dead To Me is out soon on Slumberland, which is rapidly becoming one of my most favorite labels.

mp3: "Seánce on a Wet Afternoon" (Girls Names from the forthcoming Dead To Me)
Girls Names - Seánce on a Wet Afternoon by Slumberland Records

The Untitled Interview #117: Starring Les Shelleys

2011-03-26T09:34:00.004-04:00

There's something very pure about Les Shelleys. Perhaps it's the lack of much instrumentation. Or perhaps it's just how beautiful and right the voices of Angela Correa and Tom Brosseau sound together.

There's a photo they have on their Facebook page, a black and white image of the pair onstage somewhere, Tom with his guitar and Angela's hand on her hip. It's a wonderful image because, to just look at it, you'd have no idea when it was taken. And to listen to them, you'd have no idea what age they were a part of. There's a timelessness to their folksiness, that's for sure. If you have yet to get to know Les Shelleys, friends, read on. And then go have a listen.

Les Enfants Terribles: How the hell are you?
Les Shelleys: I think we're ok.

LET: What was the last song you listened to?
LS: "Nintendo" by Shelley Short. It's playing in my head right now. It's a catchy melody. But sometimes I don't like catchy melodies. They call it earworm, the repetition of a song or fragment of a song in one's head. Like when it happens with Christopher Cross whose title I won't mention here. Jesus, I want to bash my head against the wall. The last song I listened to: "Nintendo" by Shelley Short, a great, great tune. Glad it's stuck in my head.

LET: Playing music is:
LS: Pretty fucking sweet.

LET: What album most made you realize you wanted to make music?
LS: An album by San Diegan Gregory Page. When I heard these songs I could see myself singing them, performing them. It was almost like I wrote them. Romantic Adventures Of Harry (BizarrePlanet, 1995) is so unforgettable too because every word recorded is pure emotion. You can at times even hear him smile.

LET: Beatles or Stones?
LS: Beatles.

LET: Top 5 albums (of now, of this month, or of ever):
LS:
1). Soundtrack to Shawshank Redemption
2). Soundtrack to Fabulous Baker Brothers
3). The Complete Recordings of Robert Johnson
4). Then Came The After by Shelley Short
5). Romantic Adventures of Harry by Gregory Page

LET: Favorite music-related movie?
LS: Coal Miner's Daughter

LET: Half-full or half-empty?
LS: What's half-empty, again?

LET: Which of your peers do you think is making the best music these days?
LS: Frankel - a songwriter I've know for years who lives in Silverlake. I just heard his latest album and it blew my mind.

LET: What’s the first thing you think when you wake up in the morning?
LS: OK, am I here, or have I gone on?

LET: Little-known Les Shelleys fact?
LS: The first two songs we ever sang together were "Sowing On The Mountain" and "I Still Miss Someone," at Tom's North Dakota record release in San Diego back in 2002.

LET: The greatest record store in the world is:
LS: Lou's Records in Encinitas, California.

LET: Shaken or stirred?
LS: Depends on the drink.

LET: Best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
LS: The Lord loves a working man. Don't trust whitey. If you get it, see a doctor and get rid of it.

LET: If you weren’t in a band you’d be:
LS: living somewhere far off in Latin America.

LET: Favorite Shelley: Mary Shelley, Percy Bysshe Shelley, or Shelley Duvall?
LS: Shelley Duvall!

LET: What do you find most comforting/most disconcerting about going out on tour?
LS: Most comforting: going back to places with good memories and new friends.
Most disconcerting: uncomfortable beds - leaving a cozy bed behind is hard to get over.

LET: If you were so inclined, whom would you form a tribute band in honor of?
LS: Thin Lizzy.

LET: Best song ever written?
LS: "Life On Mars" by David Bowie.

mp3: The Late John Garfield Blues (Les Shelleys from Les Shelleys) (thanks to Ketelmuziek)

On The Road Again: Peelander-Z

2011-03-26T09:09:00.003-04:00

Sadly, I've never had the pleasure of seeing the insane cirque du freakaliciousness that is the legendary live show of Peelander-Z, and while my chance to change that might not be coming soon, you might be lucky enough to experience the 100 proof white lightning strike that is Peelander-Z.

The rainbow-tasting garageabilly rockers and their crazy hair will be spreading their love all over this great land, finishing up their US tour with a string of dates on the Warped Tour. Y'all, it's about to get a little wacky. Full dates below.

03/27 Salt Lake City, UT @ Urban Lounge
03/29 Ketchum, ID @ Whiskey Jacques
03/30 Boise, ID @ TBA
03/31 Eugene, OR @ WOW Hall
04/01 Seattle, WA @ Studio Seven
04/02 Portland, OR @ Someday Lounge
04/05 Stockton, CA @ Plea For Peace Center
04/06 Orangevale, CA @ Boardwalk
04/07 San Francisco, CA @ DNA Lounge
04/08 Los Angeles, CA @ The Roxy
04/09 Temecula, CA @ The Vault
04/10 Las Vegas, NV @ TBA
04/12 Tulsa, OK @ The Marquee
04/13 Farmington, MO @ The Vault
04/14 Chicago, IL @ Reggie’s Music Joint
04/15 St. Paul, MN @ Turf Club
04/16 Milwaukee, WI @ Turner Hall
04/17 Pontiac, MI @ The Pike Room
04/18 Cleveland, OH @ Beachland Tavern
04/19 Newport, KY @ Southgate House
04/20 Knoxville, TN @ Cider House WUTK Presents
04/21 Atlanta, GA @ The Masquerade
04/22 Nashville, TN @ The End
04/23 Tallahassee, FL @ Engine Room
04/26 New Orleans, LA @ One Eyed Jack’s
04/27 Houston, TX @ Fitzgerald’s
04/28 Austin, TX @ The Parish
04/29 Dallas, TX @ The Loft
04/30 Norman, OK @ Norman Music Festival
06/05 Ozark, AR @ Wakarusa Festival
07/20 Cleveland, OH @ Time Warner Cable Amphitheater Vans Warped Tour
07/21 Camden, NJ @ Susquehanna Center Vans Warped Tour
07/22 Burgettstown, PA @ First Niagra Pavillion Vans Warped Tour
07/23 Uniondale, NY @ Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum Vans Warped Tour
07/24 Oceanport, NJ @ Monmouth Park Racetrack Vans Warped Tour
07/26 Columbia, MD @ Merriweather Post Pavilion Vans Warped Tour
07/27 Virginia Beach, VA @ Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre Vans Warped Tour
07/28 Charlotte, NC @ Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre Vans Warped Tour
07/29 Orlando, FL @ Firestone Amphitheatre Vans Warped Tour

mp3: Taco Taco Tacos (Peelander-Z from P-TV-Z)

Video Vixens: Ghost Eyes

2011-03-24T18:30:00.003-04:00

There's a lot of love for Fujiya & Miyagi around here, that's for sure. But there's also a whole lotta love for those who (skillfully) remix the fine fine songs of F & M. Take for instance the dastardly doings of Ghost Eyes.

Ghost Eyes takes a typically slinked-up, naughty little Fujiya & Miyagi jam and takes it a step further, adding some underlying, chilly creepiness along with some big ole beats and an enticing hint of the Orient. The video itself pulls from a vintage cartoon about honeymooning animals and the tuxedo cat whose significant other jilted him. Look for the moonwalking at the end, y'all. Great remix and great, unexpected video.

mp3: Cat Got Your Tongue (Ghost Eyes Remix) (Fujiya & Miyagi from Ventriloquizzing)

Pssst...Another LET-Sponsored Showtacular!

2011-03-23T19:06:00.003-04:00

Ok, y'all. I don't know what you local types have planned for April 2, but you'll probably want to adjust your plans accordingly once I tell you about a little event going down in the friendly confines of Rockville, MD. Yours truly is happy to announce a little soiree at the Bellflur warehouse of joyousness, and it will be sensational. Believe you me. We're talking seven shades of serious spectacle.

There will be music, courtesy of your cinematic and oh-so fabulous hosts (and LET local faves) Bellflur, along with more excellent local musicianship provided by The Vita Ruins (perhaps if you ask nicely they'll play their smokin' cover of Depeche Mode's "Enjoy The Silence"). But it doesn't end with the music my sweeties. Oh no. We're getting all super cultural on your asses. Artiste extraordinaire (just check that poster for an example) Rich Bernett will be showing some work, as well as screening his film Project 15. And, if that's not quite enough, Goodloe Byron will be reading from his novel "The Wraith." All of this can be yours for FREE. Unless, of course, you feel like being a super kind soul and opening your wallet to donate a little. Donations from the show will go towards the Ft. Reno concert series (a rather worthwhile endeavor).

Seriously. What else could you possibly be doing?!

mp3: Insect Politics (Bellflur from asleep.asleep)

Singles Club: Sex Beet

2011-03-23T18:52:00.003-04:00

So there I was, out and about earlier this week, when what should happen to come on the jukebox but the classic Gun Club song "Sex Beat?" Naturally, it made me remember the message Luke Sex Beet had sent me a little while back, proffering a new ditty of theirs that was, as he put it, cleaner than other stuff I've heard. Fear not, loves, he didn't mean cleaned up musically. Just production-wise.

The song comes from a split with Human Eye, and that band's somewhat campy, 50s b-movie done modern track "Martian Girl" isn't half bad either. But Sex Beet proves themselves winners once again with their sleazy, somewhat snarling take on a girl group gem gone so very rightly wrong. In my book, singing about breaking hearts is where it's at. I already love these dudes, now it's your turn.

mp3: Alone (Sex Beet from Human Eye/Sex Beet Split)

Otherwise Engaged: Fujiya & Miyagi/BRAHMS/Warm Ghost

2011-03-23T18:37:00.002-04:00

It is an unfortunate reality for the serious concertgoer that on occasion, there will be more than one show on any given night that you really, really, REALLY wanna go to. Since the vast majority of us don't own a time machine, nor have the ability to either clone ourselves or split ourselves in half (or thirds or quarters, depending on the night in question), this tends to present a problem. Difficult decisions are made based on a multitude of variables (perhaps some of you even make lists of pros and cons), and ultimately, a show is chosen. But those other shows are still gonna be killer, and I'd like to give a little face time to the shows that, while I can't go myself, are highly recommended all the same.

Y'all, this one really, really hurts. Sure, I've missed a few good shows in my day, but this here show tomorrow night is gonna be STELLAR. I just know it. I've been lucky enough to see Fujiya & Miyagi once before, and seeing them in a smaller space would be amazing. If you like your danceable Britness sultry and smart and slinky and smoky, this is the band for you. On their own, they would be non-missable, but throw in BRAHMS and Warm Ghost? I don't know what you've got planned for tomorrow, but you might want to rethink it, unless of course you're hitting the Rock & Roll Hotel for this shindig. Yeah, I won't be there, but you can make up for my absence and go have a damn good time for the both of us.

mp3: Sixteen Shade of Black & Blue (Fujiya & Miyagi from Ventriloquizzing)

Otherwise Engaged: Young Galaxy/Winter Gloves

2011-03-22T16:13:00.002-04:00

It is an unfortunate reality for the serious concertgoer that on occasion, there will be more than one show on any given night that you really, really, REALLY wanna go to. Since the vast majority of us don't own a time machine, nor have the ability to either clone ourselves or split ourselves in half (or thirds or quarters, depending on the night in question), this tends to present a problem. Difficult decisions are made based on a multitude of variables (perhaps some of you even make lists of pros and cons), and ultimately, a show is chosen. But those other shows are still gonna be killer, and I'd like to give a little face time to the shows that, while I can't go myself, are highly recommended all the same.

Tonight there is a bunch of stuff going on in town, one of these events being what surely will be a great, great show over at the Red Palace with Young Galaxy and Winter Gloves. Having seen Montrealians Young Galaxy live a few months back, I can say for a fact that those of you who venture over to the Atlas District for this here show shan't be disappointed. Go on, go out and have yourself a daggum good time.

mp3: Plastic Slides (Winter Gloves from All Red)

mp3: Peripheral Visionaries (Young Galaxy from Shapeshifting)

The Untitled Interview #116 – SXSW Edition: Starring BRAIDS

2011-03-19T15:22:00.002-04:00

The Untitled Interview #115 – SXSW Edition: Starring Little Red

2011-03-19T15:12:00.002-04:00

The Untitled Interview #114 – SXSW Edition: Starring Richie James Follin (Guards)

2011-03-19T14:55:00.003-04:00

The Untitled Interview #113 – SXSW Edition: Starring Pat Jordache

2011-03-19T14:38:00.004-04:00

The Untitled Interview #112 – SXSW Edition: Starring Colin Stetson

2011-03-19T14:08:00.003-04:00

The Untitled Interview #111 – SXSW Edition: Starring Mikey Wallace (Friendo)

2011-03-19T13:51:00.004-04:00

The days are getting longer, the nights are getting shorter and sweeter, and that, my little vixens, can only mean one thing: it's getting close to being almost time for the one and only SXSW. And of course, that means I had to ask some questions of the bands I'd sure want to see if I was heading down to Austin for the 25th annual SXSW-stravaganza.'

Y'all already know I loves me some Friendo. After all, they had one of my favorite records of 2010. Their raw, dissonant angularity melded with lighter, less ferocious prettiness encapsulated into perfect little songs is music to mine ears. The lo-fi grit of it all is a delight. Mikey (or Mike, for those formal occasions) Wallace gives one of my favorite ever interviews below, and causes an eyebrow raise or two in the process. Secret rendezvous? Oh behave!

Les Enfants Terribles: How are you getting to SXSW: plane, train, or automobile?
Mikey Wallace: The Canadian half of the trip we will be traveling by dog sled because that’s how we get around up here. The lower states we will be barebackin' it because that's how they get around down there right?

LET: Inevitably, you will forget to pack:
MW: My drumsticks! I'm not even the drummer, but I try to remember to bring some because I know Henry will forget his!

LET: How many showcases/parties will you be playing?
MW: One! Because we plan on enjoying ourselves, catching other great acts, swimming in the river, shooting guns, slapping a police horse, going to jail, getting bailed out of jail, getting bit by a rattlesnake etc... all the great Texan (SXSW) adventures to be had.

LET: Band you're most looking forward to seeing at the festival?
MW: I was really pumped on seeing my good friend Idiot Glee but since recently finding out that Mike Tyson former heavyweight champion will be promoting iPhones I simply can't imagine a greater performance than a man so large with a voice so small promoting Apple products.

LET: What's the first thing you plan on doing upon arrival in Austin?
MW: It's usually go swimming at the amazing Barton Springs, but after days and days of dog sledding and horse riding I'll probably have a beer and a secret rendezvous with my ladyfriend who I will be meeting down there, In her tour van I'm sure..

LET: What was the first festival you ever attended, either as a musician or member of the general public?
MW: Sled Island is the best thing that ever happened to my Butt Fuck home town of Calgary. It was great I was able to perform with Women on an outdoor main stage and it was really fun. I got blackout drunk hanging out with Mogwai trying to drink like a Scot!

LET: Favorite thing about festivals?
MW: Probably everything except all the fucking loser whores all over the streets passing out flyers of their bands shows saying how good their band is that I will love their band and that I should go check out their band! Positives include ~ Taco trucks, running from show to show, playing shows, not having to work or do real life things, staying up all night for three days, babes, bros, Texas Heat (Canada is so cold right now), free shoes, free cigarettes (I don’t even smoke) and meeting new people to name a few fun things!

mp3: Counter/Time (Friendo from Cold Toads)

The Untitled Interview #110 – SXSW Edition: Starring Marc St. Louis (Valleys)

2011-03-19T13:41:00.003-04:00

The Untitled Interview #109 – SXSW Edition: Starring Paul Duncan (Warm Ghost)

2011-03-19T13:21:00.003-04:00

The Untitled Interview #108 – SXSW Edition: Starring Todd Miller (A Lull)

2011-03-19T13:11:00.002-04:00

The days are getting longer, the nights are getting shorter and sweeter, and that, my little vixens, can only mean one thing: it's getting close to being almost time for the one and only SXSW. And of course, that means I had to ask some questions of the bands I'd sure want to see if I was heading down to Austin for the 25th annual SXSW-stravaganza.

Darned if I’m even gonna attempt to shoehorn Chicago’s A Lull into a genre, y’all. The closest I’d get is industrial pop, but even that barely scratches the surface. They clatter and clang and hook their way around songs, and the resulting noise is confounding yet kinda awesome. One-man rhythm section Todd Miller puts his SXSW thinking cap on below. I’m betting he hears “Oye Como Va” in his sleep by now...

Les Enfants Terribles: How are you getting to SXSW: plane, train, or automobile?
Todd Miller: We just bought a new (to us) van before we went out at the end of February. It seems like we've had nothing but van issues since we've been a band. This is our third one in three years, but unlike the past two, which were fifteen years old, this one is a 2007. For the first time, we feel pretty confident that we will get to where we need to be without major problems (as I'm looking for a piece of wood to knock on).

LET: Inevitably, you will forget to pack:
TM: Well, since we've already been out for about a week and a half now and are going to head straight to SXSW after this tour, anything we forgot, we have already picked up along the way. I guess we kind of forgot to figure out a stereo situation in the new van, although it was kind of a money-based decision. We decided not to have a stereo installed with an auxiliary input because we thought we would be able to survive on FM radio for three weeks, but we quickly realized that classic rock stations around the country have identical play lists. And it's getting really old. For example, we've heard "Oye Como Va" by Santana enough times already to last us a lifetime.

LET: How many showcases/parties will you be playing?
TM: We will be playing four times.

LET: Band you're most looking forward to seeing at the festival?
TM: We're really looking forward to the Schuba's/Lincoln Hall Roundup. Those are two venues in Chicago that we love, so we're really excited to get down there and hang out for Thursday afternoon.

LET: What's the first thing you plan on doing upon arrival in Austin?
TM: Last year I had what was, by far, the best BBQ I've ever had. It's was super simple, just brisket, hot links and white bread, no sauce needed. The only problem is that the friend who brought it to us has since moved to New Zealand. So we're on our own for finding it, but I think we're up for the challenge.

LET: What was the first festival you ever attended, either as a musician or member of the general public?
TM: I went to Lollapalooza for the first time in 2008, but I haven't been back since. A couple of the guys in the band have been down to Bonnaroo a couple of times as well. As a band, we played a showcase at SXSW last year and we played this year in January at Tomorrow Never Knows in Chicago at Lincoln Hall. We will also be playing at Middle of the Map in Kansas City in April. We'd love to play as many as we can moving forward since they are a great way to get a lot of people in the same place and offer them a wide variety of music choices.

LET: Favorite thing about festivals?
TM: Like I said, it's a great way for people to go to one place and see a bunch of different music, and they are great for bands since they are exposed to audiences that they may have not been exposed to otherwise.

mp3: Weapons for War (A Lull from the forthcoming Confetti)

The Untitled Interview #107 – SXSW Edition: Starring Jessie Stein (The Luyas)

2011-03-19T12:39:00.004-04:00

The Untitled Interview #106 – SXSW Edition: Starring Royal Forest

2011-03-19T12:21:00.002-04:00

The Untitled Interview #105 – SXSW Edition: Starring Jessica Grassia (Golden Dogs)

2011-03-19T11:50:00.002-04:00

The days are getting longer, the nights are getting shorter and sweeter, and that, my little vixens, can only mean one thing: it's getting close to being almost time for the one and only SXSW. And of course, that means I had to ask some questions of the bands I'd sure want to see if I was heading down to Austin for the 25th annual SXSW-stravaganza.

For some reason, whenever I hear the name Golden Dogs, I think of Bowie’s “Diamond Dogs.” Totally irrational, perhaps, but I like to think there’s a smidge of Bowie to be found in the music of these feisty Toronto-ites. They get a little raw with their pop-laden rock, and yours truly sure does dig it. Below, check out what salty yet sweet lady mouthpiece Jessica Grassia has on her mind regarding all things SXSW.

Les Enfants Terribles: How are you getting to SXSW: plane, train, or automobile? Jessica Grassia: Taking the BIG BOY, the Betty White, the Vananarama (our white and gracefully rusted 1992 Dodge Ram van with 360 vision). Last time we went to SXSW it was almost the virgin voyage. Now she's a vet. Still purrin' like a bearcat.

LET: Inevitably, you will forget to pack:
JG: Swimsuit - never fails.

LET: How many showcases/parties will you be playing?
JG: So far, one party, one showcase.

LET: Band you're most looking forward to seeing at the festival?
JG: Spoon (always great) - Don't even need to check the schedule. Guaranteed they’re playing somewhere.

LET: What's the first thing you plan on doing upon arrival in Austin?
JG: Either Mexican & margaritas or BBQ and beer. First morning, breakfast burritos are a must. On tour, it's amazing how much you think about food. We'll also be staying with our good friend from Toronto who lives in Austin now, so the first thing we'll probably do is sit in his back yard drinking some bubbly water and NOT freezing. SXSW is such a nice escape from Canadian winters. It's hilarious seeing all the pasty white Canucks walking around with their shirt sleeves and pant legs rolled up....

LET: What was the first festival you ever attended, either as a musician or member of the general public?
JG: The first festival I can remember playing as a band was the Festival of Friends in Hamilton, ON. Sass Jordan was the headliner and it was the first and only show ever I played rhythm guitar - for some reason, that never happened again...I must have been way too good.

LET: Favorite thing about festivals?
JG: I love the way the vibe of festival completely takes over a city and gives it an identity. I only know Austin in SXSW circumstances, so my idea of Austin is this crazy, wild music-frenzied place where you can walk down the street and someone will hand you a pack of free cigarettes, then you walk into a bar and there's free drinks and a cool band you've never heard of playing while there's band vans driving up and down the streets blaring music and giving out flyers then you see Wayne Coyne and he's rolling down the street in a big bubble while you're following the pack to some Beastie Boys afterparty...everyday at SXSW is like that.

mp3: As Long As You Like (Golden Dogs from the forthcoming Coat of Arms)

The Untitled Interview #104 – SXSW Edition: Starring Grass Widow

2011-03-18T19:17:00.001-04:00

The days are getting longer, the nights are getting shorter and sweeter, and that, my little vixens, can only mean one thing: it's getting close to being almost time for the one and only SXSW. And of course, that means I had to ask some questions of the bands I'd sure want to see if I was heading down to Austin for the 25th annual SXSW-stravaganza.

Bewitching. That’s Grass Widow in one word, my little spellbinders. These three Bay Area ladies make some serious post-rock rock ruckus, but they also make some seriously fetching, lovely harmonies. Together, the two elements prove strikingly hypnotic. I suggest you get thee to their shows.

Les Enfants Terribles: How are you getting to SXSW: plane, train, or automobile?
Hannah Lew:We're flying in to Dallas, playing a festival in Denton, driving to SXSW, then touring east with Wild Flag , then flying home from DC.

LET: Inevitably, you will forget to pack:
HL:My toothbrush. So cliche.
Lillian Maring: I recently had a dream that I forgot to bring my laptop on a trip, and I was really stressed out. I'm about to jinx myself by saying that I'm usually pretty good about remembering to bring everything I need.

LET: How many showcases/parties will you be playing?
HL:Probably 6 or so. Some stuff is still in the works.

LET: Band you're most looking forward to seeing at the festival?
HL: Mostly pals from other places like Wet Dog, but it's always fun to see Bay Area buddies like Shannon and The Clams. Not really sure who else is going this year, really we're just planning on seeing everyone we know.

LET: What's the first thing you plan on doing upon arrival in Austin?
HL: Getting a taco at Mr. Natural
LM: Playing fetch with our friend's dog, Mr. Baby.

LET: What was the first festival you ever attended, either as a musician or member of the general public?
HL: In terms of official festivals with corporate sponsors etc...I guess Ladyfest SF (2003?) was the most legit festival I attended before SXSW last year.
LM: I actually never attended any festivals. Unless the Ren Fair counts. I take that back, I played the "What U Got?" Fest in Olympia, WA a few years ago, it was a small festival showcasing the talents of local under-age artists.

LET: Favorite thing about festivals?
HL: Grass Widow has played less than a handful of festivals and I can't say too much in general about festivals as I haven't been to many, but SXSW is a great place to see friends from all over the place.
LM: So many different types of music and their corresponding audiences are all jammed packed into the same vicinity, crossing paths and bumping into each other.

mp3: Shadow (Grass Widow from Past Time)

[photo by Dillon Donovan]

The Untitled Interview #103 – SXSW Edition: Starring Sara Lucas (Callers)

2011-03-18T18:57:00.003-04:00

The Untitled Interview #102 – SXSW Edition: Starring Zoobombs

2011-03-18T18:42:00.003-04:00

The Untitled Interview #101 – SXSW Edition: Starring Eric Lodwick (BRAHMS)

2011-03-18T18:28:00.003-04:00

The Untitled Interview #100 – SXSW Edition: Starring Reading Rainbow

2011-03-18T18:11:00.002-04:00

The days are getting longer, the nights are getting shorter and sweeter, and that, my little vixens, can only mean one thing: it's getting close to being almost time for the one and only SXSW. And of course, that means I had to ask some questions of the bands I'd sure want to see if I was heading down to Austin for the 25th annual SXSW-stravaganza.

Hey look! It’s the 100th LET Untitled Interview. That certainly requires a special band, no? And darned if Reading Rainbow isn’t a special band. When I think of them I think less of Philly, their homeland, than I do a crazy, wackadoo planet in which Levar Burton (HELLS YES) frolics with sinewy go-go dancers and tripping bunny rabbits and undulating flora and fauna and the characters of Candyland play Battleship. Musically-speaking, they bring the fuzz, they bring the bop, they bring the whole shebang. Rob and Sarah are crazy awesome, y’all. Simple as.

Les Enfants Terribles: How are you getting to SXSW: plane, train, or automobile?
Sarah: We're driving down in our Subaru Outback station wagon.
Rob: We'll be playing a bunch of shows down the East coast on the way to Austin. Then after the festival we'll be making our way up to Canada and then down the West Coast. So excited!

LET: Inevitably, you will forget to pack:
S: Oh god - probably enough underwear. That happened last year and we went to Target with 1/2 of Dum Dum Girls and our friend Brent and bought some more.

LET: How many showcases/parties will you be playing?
S: As of now I think 5 or 6? I have no idea! Out of the loop.
R: It’s always a fine line between playing as many shows as possible and being totally burnt out.

LET: Band you're most looking forward to seeing at the festival?
S: Last year I was realllllly looking forward to seeing Grass Widow for the first time. This year I am not so dead set on any one band. I mean, I'm stoked to see any bands I like a lot even if it's for the 1,000 time!
R: I agree, most excited just to see all of our friends in other bands that we don't get to see often.

LET: What's the first thing you plan on doing upon arrival in Austin?
S: Get to the hotel and chilllll. Maybe go in the pool or use the free wifi like a straight baller. Then go to the giant super Whole Foods and stock up on vitamins and get some Kombucha on tap! (maybe even fill a Kombucha growler)

LET: What was the first festival you ever attended, either as a musician or member of the general public?
S: The first festival I ever attended was also my first concert. I was 12, and it was an all day "birthday bash" for the alternative radio station 104.7 The Buzz in Richmond, VA where I'm from. It had a bunch of C-list alternative bands. The highlights were: seeing Our Lady Peace play (they were obvz headlining), meeting OLP at a meet-and-greet table where they signed my chucks, and also crowd surfing for the first time!
R: Hahaha. Yea my first festival was also for an alternative radio station. WHFS 99.1 for the DC/Baltimore area. Looking back on it, all I can remember are lots and lots of JNCOs.

LET: Favorite thing about festivals?
S: The comraderie with other bands we're friends with, and festivals are usually held in warm summery months/climates.

mp3: Wasting Time (Reading Rainbow from Prism Eyes)

The Untitled Interview #99 – SXSW Edition: Starring The Lines

2011-03-18T17:42:00.002-04:00

The Untitled Interview #98 – SXSW Edition: Starring Delicate Steve

2011-03-18T17:22:00.002-04:00

The Untitled Interview #97 – SXSW Edition: Starring Cloud Nothings

2011-03-18T16:54:00.004-04:00

The Untitled Interview #96 – SXSW Edition: Starring Scott Nurkin (Birds of Avalon)

2011-03-18T16:00:00.003-04:00

The Untitled Interview #95 – SXSW Edition: Starring Hunter Hunt-Hendrix (Liturgy)

2011-03-18T09:50:00.003-04:00

The Untitled Interview #94 – SXSW Edition: Starring Jake Orrall (JEFF The Brotherhood)

2011-03-17T23:08:00.002-04:00

The Untitled Interview #93 – SXSW Edition: Starring Sensual Harassment

2011-03-17T22:23:00.002-04:00

The Untitled Interview #92 – SXSW Edition: Starring J. Tom Hnatow (These United States)

2011-03-17T19:44:00.003-04:00

The days are getting longer, the nights are getting shorter and sweeter, and that, my little vixens, can only mean one thing: it's getting close to being almost time for the one and only SXSW. And of course, that means I had to ask some questions of the bands I'd sure want to see if I was heading down to Austin for the 25th annual SXSW-stravaganza.

By now, you know These United States to be one of, and quite very probably my absolute favoritest thereof, DC bands (and definitely my favorite DC/Lexington, KY band!). These timeless troubadorian souls are once more taking their beautiful country-fried folksy romper stomper sound to Austin, where sonic triumphs shall certainly transpire. Especially if there's a sunset involved. Below, J. Tom Hnatow takes some time to talk turkey with yours truly.

Les Enfants Terribles: How are you getting to SXSW: plane, train, or automobile?
J. Tom Hnatow: We will be arriving via Evangelina 2, our 2001 Ford e350 XLT. She's a 15 passenger beast with a raised roof and a cage in the back. Holds us, our gear, and our personal stuff comfortably. Once we arrive in Austin, I hope to do most of my motorvation on my new, as yet unnamed, collapsible bike.

LET: Inevitably, you will forget to pack:
JTH: I've been doing this long enough that at this point, I truly hope I have all the essentials, namely: Good walking shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a good hat.

LET: How many showcases/parties will you be playing?
JTH: At the moment, we're playing 5 day parties, 1 official showcase, and 1 "secret" show that we'll happily tell you about if you ask us.

LET: Band you're most looking forward to seeing at the festival?
JTH: We have a lot of shows and will only be around the fest for a few days, so it'll be really hard to get out and see bands. On the positive side, just about every band on every show that we're playing is pretty awesome, so I'm excited to finish playing and get to watch. Plus, with so many bands, I always discover someone that I've never heard of before.

LET: What's the first thing you plan on doing upon arrival in Austin?
JTH: Heading to Torchy's Tacos and chowing down.

LET: What was the first festival you ever attended, either as a musician or member of the general public?
JTH: Bethlehem, PA, not far from where I'm from, has a cool festival called Musikfest every year. My first festival memory is sitting on a lawn under the stars, probably only a few years old, eating a picnic dinner, listening to Don McLean play "American Pie.”

LET: Favorite thing about festivals?
JTH: Our band is somewhat split on this, but personally, I LOVE festivals so much better than rock clubs. The downside is that it’s usually a huge rush on and off stage, no soundcheck, and you're usually soaked through with sweat just from carrying your gear. On the positive side, I love finishing and then getting to wander around, see other bands, run into old friends, and just take in the experience. We've also played a few sets just as the sun is setting, and that is an absolutely magical experience.

mp3: Water & Wheat (These United States from What Lasts)

The Untitled Interview #91 – SXSW Edition: Starring Violens

2011-03-17T19:30:00.003-04:00

The Untitled Interview #90 – SXSW Edition: Starring Kyle Harris (The Diamond Center)

2011-03-17T19:04:00.002-04:00

The Untitled Interview #89 – SXSW Edition: Starring We Are Enfant Terrible

2011-03-17T18:48:00.002-04:00

The Untitled Interview #88 – SXSW Edition: Starring Rob Coles (Little Comets)

2011-03-17T18:22:00.002-04:00

The days are getting longer, the nights are getting shorter and sweeter, and that, my little vixens, can only mean one thing: it's getting close to being almost time for the one and only SXSW. And of course, that means I had to ask some questions of the bands I'd sure want to see if I was heading down to Austin for the 25th annual SXSW-stravaganza.

Some of you might equate Newcastle, England more with the kind of Newcastle you can imbibe moreso than a city prone to churning out killer bands. Well, my little beer-guzzling friends, let me introduce you to Little Comets. These lads from the North East of Blighty are attempting a US invasion down in Austin, and with their charming, impish yet solid little rock jangle, I suspect they might just be successful. Mouthpiece/guitarist Rob Coles took some time out of travel-related fretting to answer the questions below.

Les Enfants Terribles: How are you getting to SXSW: plane, train, or automobile?
Rob Coles: We are getting a van to Gatwick at 4:30am, then two planes. We're going to be pretty hyper though so the tiredness incurred through travel will no doubt be cancelled out by excitement and sugary treats.

LET: Inevitably, you will forget to pack:
RC: Different things for different people: Mark - passport (or it'll be out of date, or he'll be arrested at customs for sarcasm), Mickey - toiletries, Matt - charm and me hmmmm probably most things as I'll be too worried about the other three.

LET: How many showcases/parties will you be playing?
RC: At the minute we're playing two: both at the UK Embassy. One is for Huw Stephen's off of the BBC and the other for Generator - a North East England arts body! I think we're also going to play quite a few impromptu little acoustic sets wherever it seems appropriate.

LET: Band you're most looking forward to seeing at the festival?
RC: Probably Foster the People and Das Racist.

LET: What's the first thing you plan on doing upon arrival in Austin?
RC: Sleeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeep. Try to avoid Mark at customs, because he is 90% sure to be rectally examined.

LET: What was the first festival you ever attended, either as a musician or member of the general public?
RC: Erm.... our first proper festival experience was at Latitude in the Suffolk countryside. It was a really amazing atmosphere, just a buzz with music, comedy, drama and people. Hopefully SXSW will be similar but I expect the environment will be slightly different to a field near Ipswich.

LET: Favorite thing about festivals?
RC: Either the bad food or the toilets, or accidentally bumping into a piece of music that you've never heard before and really enjoying it.

mp3: Joanna (Acapella) (Little Comets from In Search of Elusive Little Comets) (Merci, This Bonus Track)

The Untitled Interview #87 – SXSW Edition: Starring Casey Gibson (Filligar)

2011-03-17T18:04:00.003-04:00

The days are getting longer, the nights are getting shorter and sweeter, and that, my little vixens, can only mean one thing: it's getting close to being almost time for the one and only SXSW. And of course, that means I had to ask some questions of the bands I'd sure want to see if I was heading down to Austin for the 25th annual SXSW-stravaganza.

This here blog is very definitely pro-Filligar. Those Chicago gents have a sound that is dirty, raunchy, and ever so appealing in the way a bad boy giving a gal a broodingly, smolderingly come-hither stare is appealing. Ladies, you know what I mean. And while I can't (sadly) say from personal experience that these nasty boys are house-blown-down fantastic live, from what I've heard on record it wouldn't surprise me in the least if they were. So go check 'em out and let me know, if you please. Filligar's Casey Gibson killed some drive time with the questions you can read answers to below.

Les Enfants Terribles: How are you getting to SXSW: plane, train, or automobile?
Casey Gibson: As we speak, we're driving down from Chicago in our big, red van. The iPhone predicts 20 hours total drive time. I've spent 20 hours in dumber ways... We've also spent so much time in this van it almost feels like a big womb. A womb that births Rock.

LET: Inevitably, you will forget to pack:
CG: Hopefully nothing... But we'll probably show up a few instrument cables short. Those are the hardest things to hold on to. Also, socks--everyone in this band has terrible sock game. I packed a bunch, but none match.

LET: How many showcases/parties will you be playing?
CG: One of each. Friday the 18th we're playing Sonicbids/Jansport's official SXSW showcase at Maggie Mae's at 2:30pm, and Saturday the 19th we're at RSL blog's Smoke and Sand party, at 2pm at Rusty Spurs. Both will be big trouble, obviously.

LET: Band you're most looking forward to seeing at the festival?
CG: That's tough. We have lots of friends in bands that we're all excited to 'see,' but as far as a live show goes, I think the Strokes and TV on the Radio are both bands we've never seen that are up there.

LET: What's the first thing you plan on doing upon arrival in Austin?
CG: Texas BBQ, and there's a place on 6th Street that sells "Big Ass Beers." Pretty obvious choice, I think. I'll probably also make sure I have all my instrument cables.

LET: What was the first festival you ever attended, either as a musician or member of the general public?
CG: Growing up, we all went to Lollapalooza with all our friends every year. Much different than SXSW, but still definitely inspiring. We've played some great festivals, too--Summerfest in Milwaukee, Midpoint Music Fest in Cincinnati, Taste of Chicago, Forward Fest in Madison... They're always our favorite because we get to play alongside some of our favorite bands.

LET: Favorite thing about festivals?
CG: There's nothing like the festival atmosphere. Fans are mellow but excited to be there. Also you can get a different crowd than you're used to--people who might stumble in looking for something else, and we do our best to nab them. We can be pretty ruthless in that regard.

mp3: Robbery (Shocking Love) (Filligar from The Nerve)

The Untitled Interview #86 – SXSW Edition: Starring Tôg

2011-03-17T17:48:00.003-04:00

The days are getting longer, the nights are getting shorter and sweeter, and that, my little vixens, can only mean one thing: it's getting close to being almost time for the one and only SXSW. And of course, that means I had to ask some questions of the bands I'd sure want to see if I was heading down to Austin for the 25th annual SXSW-stravaganza.

Ain't no party like a Norwegian party, y'all. Maybe it's a byproduct of excessively long nights in winter and crazy short nights in summer, but Norway's Tôg know a thing or two about keeping the party going. If you're down in Austin and feel like getting your kicks while shakin' your hips, you might just wanna make a date with these folks. Below, the Norwegian's guide to SXSW.

Les Enfants Terribles: How are you getting to SXSW: plane, train, or automobile?
Tôg: Plane from Oslo, via New York.

LET: Inevitably, you will forget to pack:
Tôg: Toothbrush and an extra mobile phone to avoid high phone bills calling with our Norwegian phones.

LET: How many showcases/parties will you be playing?
Tôg: Tues March 15 @ Scoot Inn Inside Stage (7pm) Austin, TX
Wed March 16 @ Cherrywood Outdoor Stage (8pm) Austin, TX
Thurs March 17 - Panache Booking SXSW Showcase @ Red 7 Outside Stage (9:10pm) Austin, TX
(w/ Oh Sees, Janka Nabay, Gary Wilson, Surf City, O'Death, Grass Widow)
Sunday March 20 - Panache Hangover Party @ Beerland (6pm) Austin, TX
4 gigs it seems.

LET: Band you're most looking forward to seeing at the festival?
Tôg: Our friends in Datarock always put on a good party, so we want to hang out at their show. I also want to see Strange Boys, Silje Nes and Ty Segall. There is so much music going on there that I’m sure we’ll end up seeing a lot more when we get to know the programme more and people in the know of the local music scenes.

LET: What's the first thing you plan on doing upon arrival in Austin?
Tôg: Probably mostly boring and tacky stuff. There’s the renting of backline issue, but also what all bands do when they haven’t been to Texas before: get cheesy cowboy hats, boots and feel like you’re the first band doing it, and PULLING IT OFF(!).

LET: What was the first festival you ever attended, either as a musician or member of the general public?
Tôg: I think it was the Haldern-Pop Festival in Germany, with my former band playing. Tôg’s drummer Jørgen also played in that band. They had an amazing mirrortentvenue, an amazing lake and lots of great bands.

LET: Favorite thing about festivals?
Tôg: That you have to get used to the fact of you not being able to see and experience lots of great music, and appreciate where you are there and then.

mp3: Sansen (Tôg from the forthcoming Reint Mel (I Påsen Din) )

The Untitled Interview #85 – SXSW Edition: Starring Scott Rider (Valentiger)

2011-03-15T16:56:00.003-04:00

The days are getting longer, the nights are getting shorter and sweeter, and that, my little vixens, can only mean one thing: it's getting close to being almost time for the one and only SXSW. And of course, that means I had to ask some questions of the bands I'd sure want to see if I was heading down to Austin for the 25th annual SXSW-stravaganza.

If you're not a frequent visitor to these parts, you might not know that Valentiger is one of my pet bands. It could be because these Michiganians make some seriously darling power pop-meets-Americana rock goodness. Or perhaps, because these three are some of the gosh darn nicest dudes you're likely to meet in this here industry. Well, on second thought, it's probably both. Valentiger makes their SXSW debut this year, and it would be in your best interest, o SXSW attendees, to make sure you check 'em out. Below, drummer extraordinaire Scott Rider (you can call him Rider) commentates on all things SXSW.

Les Enfants Terribles: How are you getting to SXSW: plane, train, or automobile?
Scott Rider: Touring down in our 1999 (Grandpa) Van!

LET: Inevitably, you will forget to pack:
SR: I personally try to pack early and NOT forget anything (impossible). Our tour from Michigan down to SXSW and back is about 20 days, so there is a 2 towel minimum.

LET: How many showcases/parties will you be playing?
SR: We are playing 2 parties while were are in Austin, and maybe (hopefully) more.

LET: Band you're most looking forward to seeing at the festival?
SR: This is our first time to sx so we are mainly focusing on not being overwhelmed by the event. We hope to see fellow Michiganders Stepdad and touring pals Yearbook Committee.

LET: What's the first thing you plan on doing upon arrival in Austin?
SR: PARK. I heard it's extremely hard to find parking...So first mission is to find a place to park and then throw an anchor out. I'm sure we're also going to need to sleep. Our drive is 12 hours that day (blah!).

LET: What was the first festival you ever attended, either as a musician or member of the general public?
SR: My first memory is of the Grand Rapids Art Festival in our hometown of ...Grand Rapids, MI! It's a weekend festival full of art and more or less local bands. I was probably 7 the first time I went to that festival.

LET: Favorite thing about festivals?
SR: I'm not sure I have a favorite thing, but maybe the energy of the event. For music festivals the attendees are there for music, so it's a great opportunity to meet musicians and fans and just talk about a common interest.

mp3: Into The Sun (Valentiger from Oh, to Know!)

[photo by Amy Carroll]

The Untitled Interview #84 – SXSW Edition: Starring The O's

2011-03-15T15:48:00.003-04:00

The days are getting longer, the nights are getting shorter and sweeter, and that, my little vixens, can only mean one thing: it's getting close to being almost time for the one and only SXSW. And of course, that means I had to ask some questions of the bands I'd sure want to see if I was heading down to Austin for the 25th annual SXSW-stravaganza.

The O's might be a band small in membership (just two, thanks very much), but not musical chops. As they so perfectly put it, they're "just a couple of guys that like making music for good people." This music blends folk, bluegrass, country, and of course, a little sweet rock & roll. In their songs you might hear the whisper of a dusty Texas backcountry road, or a night of overindulging at the nearest honky tonk, or perhaps the profession of love to your little lady. Read on to glean insight into the inner workings of O's John Pedigo and Taylor Young, and then make sure to make their musical acquaintance.

Les Enfants Terribles: How are you getting to SXSW: plane, train, or automobile?
John Pedigo: Austin is only 3 hours away so we'll drive our little milk truck down there. If you fly, you miss out on a few gems :

1 - Czech Stop in West. I'm addicted to the sammies and the 'very berry' kolaches.
2 - George's in Waco. They have giant schooners of beer. Yum.
3 - The Shade Tree. It's a great little bar that's dark and they sell beer to go.
4 - Papa Joe's. This is where Billy Joe Shaver shot some dude in the face. You're almost there!
Taylor Young: Auto. Our old van "Flaps" has passed away, our convertible PT Cruiser has been returned to the rental company in LA, and our helicopter is out of gas...so our auto is getting us there...hopefully in time for show #1 of 4 at 3pm. Traffic sucks.

LET: Inevitably, you will forget to pack:
JP: Inevitably, I'll forget to pack sunglasses to cover the bags under my eyes.
TY: Nothing, I have a list. I have a packing list and a gear list. Sometimes I forget where I put the lists before I leave, so that's no good.

LET: How many showcases/parties will you be playing?
JP: We are playing only twice (ed. note – see new show info below). Our offish showcase is at Stephen F's on Thursday at 9:00pm. Then, on Friday we're playing a day party at J.Black's at 1:30pm. Sounds like a good time? Oh yeah!
TY: 4 O's shows:

Thursday, March 17
Doc's Motorworks (South Congress)
3:00-3:40p

Thursday, March 17
Official SXSW Showcase
Stephen F's Bar (Inter-Continental Hotel on Congress)
9:00-9:40p

Friday, March 18
Overtone SXSW Day Party
J Black's (6th St.)
1:30-2:15p

Friday, March 18
KDGE The Local Edge Showcase
Doc's Motorworks (South Congress)
6:00-6:40p

LET: Band you're most looking forward to seeing at the festival?
TY: The O's.

LET: What's the first thing you plan on doing upon arrival in Austin?
JP: I think we'll get a beer and depending on the crowd, a bowl of 'Red' at the Texas Chili Parlor. Oh wait, go listen to music... yeah that's what I meant. It's a music festival right?
TY: Jump on stage.

LET: What was the first festival you ever attended, either as a musician or member of the general public?
JP: I can't remember. Does the State Fair of Texas count? That place rules. The first giant show I went to was Guns N Roses, Metallica, and Faith No More at Texas Stadium. Wow. It was incredible.
TY: Musician: Reading Festival 2004. General Public: Lollapalooza 1994.

LET: Favorite thing about festivals?
JP: Festivals are great because of the roaming around you get to do. Especially SXSW because you're going to see something you haven't seen. You will be inspired by a something new. You will find new music. And you'll eat well too.
TY: The enormous amount of people. More people = more fun.

mp3: Tryin' To Have a Good Time (The O's from Between The Two)

The Untitled Interview #83 – SXSW Edition: Starring Jon Bonilla (Hollis Brown)

2011-03-15T15:15:00.004-04:00

The Untitled Interview #82 – SXSW Edition: Starring In-Flight Safety

2011-03-15T14:44:00.003-04:00

The Untitled Interview #81 – SXSW Edition: Starring L'Altra

2011-03-15T14:07:00.002-04:00

The Untitled Interview #80 – SXSW Edition: Starring Love Inks

2011-03-15T13:41:00.003-04:00

The Untitled Interview #79 – SXSW Edition: Starring Nancy Urich (Dog Day)

2011-03-15T13:14:00.002-04:00

The days are getting longer, the nights are getting shorter and sweeter, and that, my little vixens, can only mean one thing: it's getting close to being almost time for the one and only SXSW. And of course, that means I had to ask some questions of the bands I'd sure want to see if I was heading down to Austin for the 25th annual SXSW-stravaganza.

Here in DC, we frequently find ourselves subjected to the Dog Days of August, when the air is nothing short of stultifying and heatwaves rise from the endless miles of pavement. It is, you might say, a less than pleasant time. Dog Day, a husband and wife duo from Canada that seems very fond of lo-fi, 80s rockingness with a hint of poppy goodness, proves to be the exact opposite. They, my friends, are quite on the awesome side. Check out what the missus (Nancy Urich) has to say, and then, Austin-bound friends, catch her with her mister at one of their Austinian appearances.

Les Enfants Terribles: How are you getting to SXSW: plane, train, or automobile?
Nancy Urich: We are flying to LA then taking the bus to TX and then driving in a car. All of the above. No train, well maybe a train.

LET: Inevitably, you will forget to pack:
NU: Clothing! (we don't have room for it anyway) and our dog, we will regretfully be forgetting to pack Woofy. And we can't bring my drum kit or hi-watt. That's what you get for flying. I will probably forget some stupid charger for something.

LET: How many showcases/parties will you be playing?
NU: We are playing the Tom Tom Magazine show on Mar 18th (Baby Blue), the Cake Shop NY stage on the 19th, and a house party in Austin on the 17th.

LET: Band you're most looking forward to seeing at the festival?
NU: Obits! I have never gotten to see any band that contains Rick Froberg! I am a huge high school Drive Like Jehu fan. We are going to take in as much as we possibly can, because we'll be there for the whole week. We are excited to see Eternal Summers, and maybe even the Strokes?

LET: What's the first thing you plan on doing upon arrival in Austin?
NU: Finding our pal Seth and getting him to show us where a couple of vegan Canadians might find good food.

LET: What was the first festival you ever attended, either as a musician or member of the general public?
NU: The first was Gobblefest 1995, which is a festival on Cape Breton Island that happens around Thanksgiving. I was just a youngster, and it really blew my mind at the time. The bands that I remember were locals, and it was so damn good.

LET: Favorite thing about festivals?
NU: All the bands, all the merch, food, good times, so many people!!

mp3: Scratches (Dog Day from the forthcoming Scratches EP)

The Untitled Interview #78 – SXSW Edition: Starring Brown Brogues

2011-03-12T16:51:00.003-05:00

The Untitled Interview #77 – SXSW Edition: Starring Julie Baenziger (Sea of Bees)

2011-03-12T16:25:00.003-05:00

The Untitled Interview #76 – SXSW Edition: Starring Adam Arcuragi

2011-03-12T16:02:00.002-05:00

The days are getting longer, the nights are getting shorter and sweeter, and that, my little vixens, can only mean one thing: it's getting close to being almost time for the one and only SXSW. And of course, that means I had to ask some questions of the bands I'd sure want to see if I was heading down to Austin for the 25th annual SXSW-stravaganza.

Ladies and gentlemen, I hereby suggest that the world we be a much better place if everyone was given copies of the music of Adam Arcuragi. Adam, along with his Lupine Chorale Society, makes music that will, in all likelihood, take your breath away. It's simple, it's beautiful, and it's unquestionably heartfelt. It's not bogged down with the burden of trying too hard, this music, instead it floats authentically along the waves of true Americana. I would, friends, make it a point to see Adam Arcuragi at SXSW. Below, Adam opines on Austin.

Les Enfants Terribles: How are you getting to SXSW: plane, train, or automobile?
Adam Arcuragi: We have recently acquired a lovely van. It's been years since I began looking and trying to find a van and we finally got one. Some of the New Yorkers will fly out, most of us are going to see the gorgeous Gulf Coast, good Mississippi bar-b-que and Avery Island.

LET: Inevitably, you will forget to pack:
AA: Well [knock on wood] we will continue to pack just right. We usually are able to get all the equipment, toothbrushes, snacks and a small library of gossip magazines and books no one actually reads because someone inevitably has a fancy phone.

LET: How many showcases/parties will you be playing?
AA: So far we have four or five things we're doing. But you know things tend to happen that you can't possibly anticipate. Last time we came to the festival I dropped my bassist's car keys into Lake Lady Bird and the fellow who helped me try to fish them out ended up letting us set up an impromptu show on one of the boats he worked on; so we did, with lights and the sounds of the city all around. Playing on the water is a treat.

LET: Band you're most looking forward to seeing at the festival?
AA: Vandaveer without a doubt and Some Community. Vandaveer is Mark Charles and Rose, they sound so sweet and austere without being precious and Some Community is my cousin from Brazil's band. Both acts are worth the trip alone.

LET: What's the first thing you plan on doing upon arrival in Austin?
AA: Hard to say. I mean we have to get everyone from the airport and drop off all our stuff at our base camp, find friends that have hotel rooms and swim in the Hilton saline pool...we'll be so hopped up on driving, a great show from the night before in Bryan, Texas and hot sauce from Avery Island it is hard to conjecture what our time will entail.

LET: What was the first festival you ever attended, either as a musician or member of the general public?
AA: Actually this festival is the first back in 2006 or 2007. It was a really great time. Gosh that seems like so long ago.

LET: Favorite thing about festivals:
AA: My favorite thing about this festival in particular is two-fold; the first is that it is in Austin. Austin, to me, is one of the best towns in America. Yes, you don't get the actual day-to-day Austin experience but it is this fantastic combination of Texas charm and cosmopolitan moxie. The second part is that it's like if you took all the jocks out of the hierarchy in high school and just let the different kids fill in the gaps. All the nerd, none of the rage. It's like a paradise where everyone really does know who Ride is and genuinely likes them.

mp3: People and Private Music (Daytrotter) (Adam Arcuragi from I Am Become Joy)

The Untitled Interview #75 – SXSW Edition: Starring The Spring Standards

2011-03-12T15:39:00.005-05:00

The Spring Standards is a charming, charming band, my friends. This cluster of New Yorkers makes a sound that is both lovely and endearing, and more than a little nostalgic. At times they don't even sound like a modern band, hearkening back as they do to days long before iPods and even long before mod cons like TV and the telephone. It's a little twangy, a little chirpy, and oh so delightful. Read on to see how The Spring Standards will be approaching this year's SXSW.

Les Enfants Terribles: How are you getting to SXSW: plane, train, or automobile?
The Spring Standards: Automobile! We are traveling by sprinter, cause we need to GET there!...and it sprints...(see what we did there?)

LET: Inevitably, you will forget to pack:
TSS: You wouldn't think it, but...tooth paste, deodorant and or a pillow. It's always the most obvious things that we forget.

LET: How many showcases/parties will you be playing?
TSS: So far we have one official showcase and a few parties. We keep hopping on more parties, so not sure of the exact number yet.

LET: Band you're most looking forward to seeing at the festival?
TSS: What a question. There are quite a few this year. But going off last year, I think we're more excited about the bands we've never heard of. With the amazing "see anything" wrist bands that we're lucky enough to get, we get to see all sorts of new bands. That's one of the best parts about South By...you really get the chance to see and hear amazing bands you've never heard of. So expect to see us walking from spot to spot checking out everything and anything.

LET: What's the first thing you plan on doing upon arrival in Austin?
TSS: Getting a really spicy chili dog, then going to Barton Springs!!

LET: What was the first festival you ever attended, either as a musician or member of the general public?
TSS: We have all seen a few festivals in our day, but I can safely say that the Philadelphia Folk Fest was our first real festival. Camping, watching music, seeing things we shouldn't have seen at that age...the usual festival experience. We were lucky enough to play that festival after years of attending as audience members. It was something else to be a part of it in a whole new way after watching it for so many years.

LET: Favorite thing about festivals?
TSS: The crazy-wonderful and crazy-crazy people that you meet. So many people are there to hear and see and play new music. It's effing exciting as hell. You get to see awesome new music with other people. The energy of a festival is something that only people who have been to a festival or some other sort of huge group gathering can understand. It's such a positive and wonderful experience.

mp3: Queen of the Lot (The Spring Standards from Would Things Be Different) (via Foundwaves)

The Untitled Interview #74 – SXSW Edition: Starring Empress Hotel

2011-03-12T15:16:00.003-05:00

The days are getting longer, the nights are getting shorter and sweeter, and that, my little vixens, can only mean one thing: it's getting close to being almost time for the one and only SXSW. And of course, that means I had to ask some questions of the bands I'd sure want to see if I was heading down to Austin for the 25th annual SXSW-stravaganza.

Just for shits and giggles, I looked at the assemblage of influences Empress Hotel cites on their Myspace. Electric Light Orchestra, David Bowie, Prince, and The Cars are just a few, and the great this is you can hear all of that and more in the music of The Big Easy's Empress Hotel. There's something joyful and festive to their glammy pop, and it's as cool and refreshing as that sweaty bottle of beer on the sultriest of Summer days. Definitely worth checking out, both at SXSW and otherwise.

Les Enfants Terribles: How are you getting to SXSW: plane, train, or automobile?
Empress Hotel: Neither. We use a spaceship and a trailer.

LET: Inevitably, you will forget to pack:
EH: I always plan on someone else packing toothpaste, and usually only one person usually does. So we always have to share. I will most likely forget to pack a pillow or snacks.

LET: How many showcases/parties will you be playing?
EH: As of right now, just two but we plan on playing a shit-load more.

LET: Band you're most looking forward to seeing at the festival?
EH: Middle Brother, Pepper Rabbit, Generationals (with the new lineup, should be tight), Cults, Low, Menomena, Yellow Ostrich, Ty Segall, Quintron, The Black Angels.

LET: What's the first thing you plan on doing upon arrival in Austin?
EH: Eating some Mexican food or sleeping!

LET: What was the first festival you ever attended, either as a musician or member of the general public?
EH: New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival. My mom's been taking me since I was a little kid and by the age of 15 or so I started going with friends and/or by myself. It’s great. I've had the pleasure of playing the fest a few times too.

LET: Favorite thing about festivals?
EH: The food is usually pretty amazing but often a bit overpriced as we all know. Seeing big production bands (Metallica at Bonnaroo) is something that is a once in a lifetime opportunity and though it’s a little cheesy, its so worth it! SXSW is not what I would call a typical festival. It’s more like Mardi Gras on Bourbon St. in New Orleans only not lame. Crowded streets but not because there are a bunch frat boys and topless women (not that there is anything wrong with the latter). Also, music everywhere, but not club oonce oonce music like Bourbon St. It is usually pretty awesome! I can dig it.

mp3: Bells Ring (Empress Hotel from the forthcoming Empress Hotel EP)

[photo by Zack Smith]

The Untitled Interview #73 – SXSW Edition: Starring Paul Cary

2011-03-12T14:51:00.004-05:00

The Untitled Interview #72 – SXSW Edition: Starring Soft Swells

2011-03-12T14:31:00.002-05:00

Mittenfields & Forevsner: A Photo Recap

2011-03-10T18:57:00.010-05:00

A few weeks back, LET was delightfully proud to sponsor what proved to be a decidedly killer double bill of grrrrreat, loud, shoegazey, droney, dream rock bands starring Mittenfields and Forevsner.

Instead of just saying how great both these bands were (which, in fact, they without a doubt were), I'd like to share some photos with you from the show. All snaps courtesy the super rad Jill Palumbo. Enjoy, and make sure to check out both of these seriously sensational DC area bands. As a guide, Forevsner is the first band you see, and then Mittenfields.

mp3: So We Stayed Home (Forevsner)

[all photos copyright Jill Palumbo]

The Untitled Interview #71 – SXSW Edition: Starring Marion Herbain (Veronica Falls)

2011-03-10T18:29:00.004-05:00

[photo by Pavla Kopecna]

The Untitled Interview #70 – SXSW Edition: Starring The Shining Twins

2011-03-10T18:08:00.002-05:00

The Untitled Interview #69 – SXSW Edition: Starring Mike Sempert (Birds & Batteries)

2011-03-10T17:52:00.003-05:00

[photo by Su-Yin Mah]

The Untitled Interview #68 – SXSW Edition: Starring Elliott Frazier (Ringo Deathstarr)

2011-03-09T18:15:00.004-05:00

The Untitled Interview #67 – SXSW Edition: Starring David Longoria (The Black)

2011-03-09T17:45:00.004-05:00

[photo by Bill McCullough]

The Untitled Interview #66 – SXSW Edition: Starring Chris Gregory (Golden Bear)

2011-03-09T17:07:00.002-05:00

Newsflash! MACRoCk Schedule Released!

2011-03-08T09:14:00.003-05:00

O happy, happy day! MACRoCk, the Mid-Atlantic College Radio Conference, has just released its almost full schedule for this year's conference. Held April Fools' Weekend in lovely Harrisonburg, VA, this year's installment of the fest features some major LET faves like Gringo Star, Inter Arma and Eternal Summers, along with some of the best bands in the great Commonwealth of VA, such as Lubec, White Laces, and The Cinnamon Band. There's also a buncha bands playing that I'm totally excited to see, so it's safe to say that this here MACRoCk will be pretty dang awesome.

The Untitled Interview #65 – SXSW Edition: Starring Heavy Cream

2011-03-07T18:56:00.005-05:00

A few months back I saw a little band called Heavy Cream when they brought their sonic Tennessee tornado through DC, y'all, and was totally ripped to shreds by how good they were. They've got all the brash sass of vintage Runaways and the bratty snarl of The Black Lips (probably minus the super crass teenage boy vibe, though). In other words, they're not to be missed. Do you hear me, O SXSW attendees? Do not miss this band. Here's what the scamps of Heavy Cream had to say about the industry shindig:

Les Enfants Terribles: How are you getting to SXSW: plane, train, or automobile?

Heavy Cream: We are taking a big blue van.

LET: Inevitably, you will forget to pack:

HC: Daniel will forget his bass. Everyone else will be ready to go.

LET: How many showcases/parties will you be playing?

HC: We don't know yet. For sure the Panache Showcase and the Volcom Showcase. Take us to your party!!!

LET: Band you're most looking forward to seeing at the festival?

HC: Really stoked to see Thee Oh Sees.

LET: What's the first thing you plan on doing upon arrival in Austin?

HC: Finding a parking spot. That's gunna suck. Then we will head to HEAVY METAL PIZZA.

LET: What was the first festival you ever attended, either as a musician ormember of the general public?

HC: Skull Bone, Lynyrd Skynyrd headlined.

LET: Favorite thing about festivals?

HC: Kandy Kids

mp3: Watusi (Heavy Cream from Danny)

[photo by Justine Orrall]

The Untitled Interview #64 – SXSW Edition: Starring Ben Fox (Dinosaur Bones)

2011-03-05T13:41:00.003-05:00

I've had the pleasure of visiting Toronto a couple times over the past few years. I even toyed with the idea of moving there a while back, but it's just too cold there in Winter for my delicate constitution. If you haven't been, it's a great place. Oh yeah, and it's got a killer music scene, too. Dinosaur Bones is a part of that scene, and they'll doubtlessly be slaying all and sundry down there in Austin. To me, their music is the sonic equivalent of venturing up to the very top of the CN Tower in downtown Toronto, and spending some breathless, beautiful moments in the observation area with the glass bottomed floor. They're highly recommended, y'all, so make sure not to miss Dinosaur Bones. Below, Bones singer Ben Fox gets his SXSW musings on.

Les Enfants Terribles: How are you getting to SXSW: plane, train, or automobile?
Ben Fox: Vanomobile. We're all about the road trip. As Toronto guys, we love the 2-3 day road trip through the States, right down to Texas. It’s a really cool way to see the U.S., especially the parts of it you wouldn't necessarily pass through on a tour.

LET: Inevitably, you will forget to pack:
BF: Cell phone charger, adequate underwear, you name it. Although I always remember to pack my toothbrush, the most easily replaced item of all...

LET: How many showcases/parties will you be playing?
BF: Last year I think we played 5, so that's the bar. If we top that I'll be happy. I think we're locked into 4 or so thus far, so I think we're in good shape.

LET: Band you're most looking forward to seeing at the festival?
BF: I try to plan as little as possible for festivals like this, and kinda just roll with it and see where I end up. With so many deadly bands playing, it usually works out pretty well.

LET: What's the first thing you plan on doing upon arrival in Austin?
BF: Finding the nearest BBQ and eating 'til I black out.

LET: What was the first festival you ever attended, either as a musician or member of the general public?
BF: When I was in high school I went to the first Olympic Island festival on the Toronto Island. Got a chance to see a bunch of great Canadian bands before they blew up internationally (Death From Above 1979 and Arcade Fire were the first two bands of the day). That still holds up as one of my favourite festival experiences, from an audience perspective.

LET: Favorite thing about festivals?
BF: I'd say one of my favourite things is running into friends from home who are also playing the festival, and being able to soak in how amazing it is that we get to do what we're doing. Oh, and I guess getting day-drunk four days in a row and watching a bunch of my favourite bands in one weekend is pretty good too.

mp3: Royalty (Dinosaur Bones from My Divider)

[photo by Brittany Lucas]

The Untitled Interview #63 – SXSW Edition: Starring Jake Waitzman (Vulture Whale)

2011-03-05T12:47:00.005-05:00

The Untitled Interview #62 – SXSW Edition: Starring Justin Webb (We Were The States)

2011-03-05T12:04:00.004-05:00

[photo by JT Sumner]

The Untitled Interview #61 – SXSW Edition: Starring Matt Hines (The Eastern Sea)

2011-03-05T11:15:00.004-05:00

The days are getting longer, the nights are getting shorter and sweeter, and that, my little vixens, can only mean one thing: it's getting close to being almost time for the one and only SXSW. And of course, that means I had to ask some questions of the bands I'd sure want to see if I was heading down to Austin for the 25th annual SXSW-stravaganza.

Part of what makes SXSW so awesome, in my humble opinion, is the sheer volume of local (or general Texan) bands that get on the bill. Let's face it, Austin is just one of those places that is swimming in talented bands. And The Eastern Sea is one of those such talented Austin bands. They call themselves Folk & Roll, and that's a pretty good way of describing their purty, purty sound. They bring the folk, they bring the roll, and when you put those two together, my loves, great things tend to happen. Here's Matt Hines, opining on what the SXSW experience is like for a local.

Les Enfants Terribles: How are you getting to SXSW: plane, train, or automobile?
Matt Hines: Bicycle/Car. It’s twenty minutes by bike, five by car. Sometimes I'll just walk. The festival will be all around me. And oh my, we're even throwing an after-party show in the workout room of my apartment complex. Can't beat that kind of convenience.

LET: Inevitably, you will forget to pack:
MH: Everything...that’s the one perk of living in Austin during SXSW. All my stuff is already here!

LET: How many showcases/parties will you be playing?
MH: Many. Last year we did around seven. We may break ten this year. Fingers crossed. It’s exhausting but really worth it.

LET: Band you're most looking forward to seeing at the festival?
MH: Well there are a bunch of bands I really want to see, can I list a few? Is that breaking the rules? Here goes: Twin Shadow, Fat Tony, Freddie Gibbs, Givers, Hospital Ships, The Strange Boys, Surfer Blood, UME, Voxhaul Broadcast, etc...

LET: What's the first thing you plan on doing upon arrival in Austin?
MH: If I take this question too seriously I think my head will spin, so let me be unnecessarily abstract about answering it: The first thing I'll do upon arriving in Austin is walk around downtown acting like a stranger. That’s my traditional way of ringing in the SXSW week, I ride my bike all the way down South Congress and watch people flex their credentials and secretly hate that I've become invisible in my own home.

LET: What was the first festival you ever attended, either as a musician or member of the general public?
MH: I really can't remember the first music festival I ever attended. I believe I should count the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo because it’s a staple of Texas' musical roots. The first festival The Eastern Sea ever played was the Free Press Houston Summer Fest in 2009. That was insane.

LET: Favorite thing about festivals?
MH: My favorite thing about festivals is that you never know who you'll run into. I like seeing old friends, so it’s nice to have an excuse to bump into them.

mp3: The Snow (The Eastern Sea - Buy Stuffs!) (cheers, Sucka Pants)