The Week In New Music: April 1st

With so much new music coming out every week, keeping track of all the releases can become a little overwhelming. Feel free to stop over here at the SCOPE blog every Sunday for an extensive (although not exhaustive) list of the week's upcoming releases. And for those in the Iowa City area, be sure to support local businesses and pick up your brand spanking new music at Real Records (a phenomenal record store with an extensive collection of new and old CD and vinyl, located on the corner of Linn and Market) or the well known Record Collector (located near the corner of College and Linn).

US Releases for Tuesday, April 1

American Babies "American Babies"
Anti-Flag "The Bright Lights of America"
The Black Keys "Attack & Release" highly recommended
Dem Franchize Boyz "Da Point Of No Return"
French Kicks "Swimming" (digital release only) recommended
Josh Gracin "We Weren't Crazy"
Lemuria "Get Better"
Moby "Last Night"
Muse "Haarp Live CD/DVD"
Razah "Razah"
R.E.M. "Accelerate" recommended
Bryan Scary "Flight of the Knife"
Sevendust "Chapter VII: Hope & Sorrow"
Sun Kil Moon "April"
The Sword "Gods of the Earth"
This Is Ivy League "This Is Ivy League"

From A Friend...

Word of mouth is an integral part of the discovery and dispersement of new musical talent. This is by no means a revelatory statement. Just look at the proliferation of blogs. But I still enjoy the old fashioned method, where a friend says "you have to hear this." Well, I just had one such occurrence the other day and, at the behest of my good friend Mal, decided that you all out there just have to hear this. The band is Port O'Brien. I really don't know too much about them or their folk-rock style. But I do know that these two strikingly different songs are a good indication of a solid album to come this May. "I Woke Up Today" comes in with some driving percussion (think I hear some spoons on pans) and some spritely little picking, all backed by tavern-y singalonging shouts. "Stuck On A Boat" is a more mellow affair, following a slinky little guitar line, quiet but anxious vox, and some tastefully placed strings. Enjoy, and if you see my friend Mal, tell her thanks.

I Woke Up Today - Port O'Brien
Stuck In A Boat - Port O'Brien

Indie Team Up: Ellen Page & Broken Social Scene

There's a new movie coming out entitled The Tracey Fragments featuring the "love her or hate her" Ellen Page (nothing but love from me and KRUI co-host Willie) as the lead and an original score by the critically acclaimed and always innovative Broken Social Scene. My somewhat considerable crush on Page coupled with my love of BSS is giving this movie two thumbs up without me having actually seen the movie or watched the trailer with the sound on (I'm in class as a write this). Make your own judgment call. Check the trailer out here.

MySpace Watch: Karina Denike

Those of you who have read my posts in the past know that I am a lover of the ska. One of my favorite punk/ska bands of all time is the Dance Hall Crashers--a twin female-fronted tour de force from the '90s.

Alas...they haven't played together since 2005-ish. But there's hope--one half of the vocal team, Karina Denike still has the performing bug and she's got a couple of great songs on MySpace.

The songs have a little Cat Power-esque quality to them, along with some old school soul/pop. If you want to see what ever happened to those crazy ska kids, here's one that didn't go banana-shit on us.

CLICK HERE FOR The Lovely Karina Denike

Slap In The Face (In Slow Motion)

I think the title says it all.

http://view.break.com/476254 - Watch more free videos

Raconteurs: album, single, video, etc.

Your Sexy Lady Bits and Your Sexy Man Bits, Too

I know we posted on the upcoming Flight of the Conchords eponymous release (out April 22 on Sub Pop), but its hard to think of a good reason not to post on them again, especially when an mp3 is involved. By now, y'all know all there is to know about New Zealand's former fourth most popular guitar-based digi-bongo acapella-rap-funk-comedy folk duo (having been bumped by a tribute band of themselves Like of the Conchords). And as we have just passed the fifth anniversary of the start of the war in Iraq, the lyrics are especially potent: "If every soldier in the world put down his weapon and picked up a woman, what a peaceful world this world would be."

DOWNLOAD:Ladies of the World - Flight of the Conchords

when your mind is a mess so is mine

spring cleaning (up all the messes we made over winter) MIX

I Still Ain't Over You/Augustana
Watch the Sky/Something Corporate
I've Just Seen A Face/The Beatles
Maybe Misery/Quietdrive
Open Your Eyes/Snow Patrol
Kiss My Sass/Cobra Starship
I'm A Flirt/The Hood Internet
Molly's Chambers/Kings of Leon
Breaking Up/Rilo Kiley
Over You/Acceptance
Company Calls/Death Cab For Cutie

Tonight's Idol

So tonight was the top ten on American Idol. The show started out rough but ended really well. Micheal Johns was very good I thought tonight. My top pick goes to David Cook once again for his version of Billie Jean. Watch it all the way through...

New Death Cab for Cutie

"I Will Possess Your Heart" is the first song released off of the new Death Cab album, Narrow Stairs (May 13). With quite the long intro, the anticipation almost kills you, especially when you notice there is almost 4 minutes left and you still haven't heard a word after 4.5 minutes of build up.

Then you hear it. It's Ben. "How I wish you could see the potential, the potential of you and me / it's like a book elegantly bound in a language you can read / you've got to spend some time love, you've got to spend time with me / i know that you'll find love / i will posses your heart..."

Gibbard and the rest of the boys have given us a song that really can't determine where the rest of the album will go. For me personally, this is one of those albums where if I find it on the internet somewhere, I will look away. I am going to run to the store the day of the release (May 13) and put it in my cd player, letting it play the whole way through.

"I Will Possess Your Heart" has quite the simplistic sound, but the repetitiveness of the chorus almost leaves you feeling like you have to sing affirmatively along with Ben Gibbard. I know that I loved Plans, but I missed the elements of Transatlanticism that it lacked. I am thinking that Narrow Stairs will probably pick up a bit where they left off, but never short changing their fans of intriguing lyrics and an innovative sound.

Listen for yourself.

Download: I Will Possess Your Heart - Death Cab for Cutie

Slightly Under The Radar

For those of you that are regular blog readers, Voxtrot may be relatively old news to you. But for those of you that are fresh to the game, well, there's a band called Voxtrot. And they're sweet. A about a year or two ago, Voxtrot dominated the blogosphere, thanks in large part to the release of three phenomenal short EPs, Voxtrot - EP, Mothers Sisters Daughters & Wives, and Your Biggest Fan - Ep. Each showcased the bands knack for strong melodies, jangly guitars, interesting chord shifts, and honest emotional lyrics. On the band's full-length eponymous debut, they seemed to falter under the pressure of their own buzz, second guessing their instincts and overanalyzing their songs. But they're an extremely young band, and have plenty of time to get comfortable in their songwriting skin and I have a good feeling that their sophomore effort will be something special. Until then, enjoy these killer songs. The first track was the one that hooked me on the band and is perfect for the warming weather. The second track's got a curiously sexual title, and that's enough for me. The third is one of the standouts from the band's debut full-length.

DOWNLOAD: The Start Of Something - Voxtrot
DOWNLOAD: Soft And Warm - Voxtrot
DOWNLOAD: Firecracker - Voxtrot

We've Done It Again

Way back in one of our very first blog posts, SCOPE said to be on the lookout for phenomenal folk artist Samamidon in 2008. This month's Spin has listed Samamidon as an artist to know. Now. And we can't agree more. Turning traditional folk songs into something beautiful and broken sounding, he's perfect for fans of Bon Iver and Sufjan Stevens. Enjoy and welcome back.

DOWNLOAD: Wedding Dress - Sam Amidon
DOWNLOAD: Saro - Samamidon

The Week In New Music: March 25th

With so much new music coming out every week, keeping track of all the releases can become a little overwhelming. Feel free to stop over here at the SCOPE blog every Sunday for an extensive (although not exhaustive) list of the week's upcoming releases. And for those in the Iowa City area, be sure to support local businesses and pick up your brand spanking new music at Real Records (a phenomenal record store with an extensive collection of new and old CD and vinyl, located on the corner of Linn and Market) or the well known Record Collector (located near the corner of College and Linn).

US Releases for Tuesday, March 25

The B-52s "Funplex"
Counting Crows "Saturday Nights & Sunday Mornings"
Crash Romeo "Gave Me The Clap"
Day 26 "Day 26"
Dem Franchize Boyz "Da Point Of No Return"
Justin Townes Earle "The Good Life"
Elephant Man "Let's Get Physical"
Firewind "The Premonition"
Gnarls Barkley "The Odd Couple"
Daniel Lanois "Here Is What Is" (CD Release, Digitally released 15 Dec 2007)
Panic At The Disco "Pretty. Odd"
Plants And Animals "Parc Avenue"
The Raconteurs "Consolers Of The Lonely"

SCOPE ANNOUNCES THE COUNTING CROWS 4.15.08

Good thing you read our blog, because you are one of the first to know that.....

Tuesday, April 15th, the COUNTING CROWS will be performing live in the Iowa Memorial Union Main Lounge at 7:30 pm. Tickets are $28.00 and go on sale this THURSDAY, MARCH 27th at 10:00 AM at all Ticketmaster locations including the Iowa Memorial Union Box Office where University of Iowa students can charge up to eight tickets to their UBILLS.

We stress all of this important information right away as this is one of the smallest, most intimate shows that the Counting Crows are playing on their current tour. The Counting Crows are a highly recognizable band led by frontman, Adam Duritz, and have reigned supreme time and time again on their live circuit reputation. Many recognize the debut of their success with the iconic single, "Mr. Jones," in 1994.

Since "Mr. Jones" on the August and Everything After album, the band has released four albums, with the latest being the 2008 release of Saturday Nights, Sunday Mornings. We can't stress how excited we are over at SCOPE to announce this latest addition to our Spring 2008 lineup. But let us stress this: TICKETS WILL GO FAST. If you want to come to the show, get your tickets on Thursday, March 27th. There was some heartache over the Ben Folds sellout, don't let it happen to you.

I am a fan of the latest single off of the new album, "You Can't Count On Me" and you can watch the video here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h2lfD2XpnvM

Thanks for reading, hope you're happy to realize that YOU are one of the first to know about the incredible upcoming Counting Crows show on April 15th!!

Kooky for the Kooks

I'm not one to like bands for their looks ( I find Jeff Tweedy attractive... ) but The Kooks have it made in BOTH departments.

Even More Bon Iver

If you all out there are anything like us, you're probably still deep in the honeymoon phase with Bon Iver's flawless debut, For Emma, Forever Ago. The problem with an album as beautiful as this one is that you sort of come to expect a live show that just won't quite meet expectations. In this case, however, that doesn't seem to be an issue. One of our good friends over at Mission Creek brought us back reports from the SxSW front line and told us that Bon Iver just destroyed it live. I still cannot believe that little 'ol Iowa City is gonna be privy to one of 2008's musical highlights in just a few short weeks!! Don't forget to get your tickets NOW. You can get festival passes over at Mission Creek, or individual tix at Ticketmaster or, for the locals, at the IMU box office. Head over to Stereogum for two exclusive video's of one of Bon Iver's SxSW sets...breathtaking.

Let the Top 10 begin...

So I’ll admit it...I watch American Idol. Personally I feel once you watch it everyone will get hooked. I’ve now got two of my roommates watching it every week. Especially if you like music and know how to catch good talent then you need to start to watch.

So for those of you that have missed the first couple of weeks of Idol I have placed the best performances so far. For those of you that have been watching comment and let me know if you think there are better performances.

David Archuleta "Imagine" by John Lennon:



Jason Castro - Hallelujah




David Cook -- Eleanor Rigby:




So those are my pick so far. I'll be now posting the best performance from each week on Wednesday's.

a diamond is forever

This commercial has been haunting me since it came out last Christmas season:

I finally found the song that creates the peaceful, romantic setting of the ad. It's called "Falling In Love at a Coffee Shop" by adorable Nashville native Landon Pigg. It's the perfect spring falling in love song and I can't get enough.

Landon Pigg - "Falling In Love at a Coffee Shop"

ain't i rough enough?

"Shine a Light," the part concert movie, part career-spanning biopic on the Rolling Stones comes out in two and a half weeks (April 4th to be exact) and I couldn't be more excited. The film is directed by Martin Scorsese and features concert footage taken at New York's Beacon Theater. Having never seen this legendary band live, this movie is probably the closest I'm ever going to get to being at a concert.

From the looks of the trailer, which can be seen here, the movie will follow the concert starting with the pre-show production through the main event. If done right, this could capture all the energy, craziness and excitement that we here at SCOPE experience during every concert we produce.

The trailer also gives a sneak peak into which songs the Stones will be playing during the concert. Right now, there is no sign that my favorite song, "Beast of Burden," will be played. This song is not only my favorite Rollings Stones song, but one of my favorite songs of all time. It's an old school slow jam with lyrics to set any date on fire.

The Rolling Stones - "Beast of Burden"

Where does America's music Rank...

Recently my roomate and I got on the topic of some of our his/my favorite artists such as the beatles, the who, elton john, etc and realized none of them were from the United States. There are plenty of other world famous bands that are also not from the US...So what bands/artists from America hold the position of one of the best bands of all time? Elvis? Johnny Cash? Please contribute and let me know who you think is the best from the US....

Here is a link to a website who created a recent list of great American bands (top 40-1)...which include Kings of Leon, Bright Eyes, and Wilco.... what do you think...

http://arts.guardian.co.uk/page/0,,1068626,00.html

Dear Bloggies...

To all the readers out there (if there are any), we'd like to first say that we truly appreciate all your visits and comments. Just as concerts aren't possible without the fans, blog posts aren't possible without the readers. Well, I guess they'd still be possible, but fairly pointless. It'd sort of be like talking outloud, only more time consuming. Anywho, it's spring break here at Iowa, which means mass migration to locales where the Iowa City folk can beerbong and blackout in warmer weather. And many of the SCOPE bloggers have joined the masses and moved on to wake up with vomit in their hair in sunnier places for a few days. This means that the blog posts will be few and far between for the next week or so. Don't fret, though. We'll still get a post or two up and we'll be back to business as usual with our multiple daily posts by next Monday (including a surprise CONCERT ANNOUNCEMENT) so make sure to check back. Until then, enjoy your time away and, for those traveling to the traditional spring breack destinations (Florida, Texas, Mexico, etc.) enjoy all the dudes wearing aviators 24 hours a day. Sooooo college.

More Black Keys

Way back when we brought you a first listen for the Black Keys first single, "Strange Times", from their forthcoming album Attack & Release. Then, we gave you a quick rundown on some of the album highlights in an album preview/review. Now, we're bringing you the first, of hopefully many, kick-ass videos. This one's for said single, "Strange Times", and it's flippin awesome. Not entirely sure what's going on (my best guess is that Auerbach and Carney [looking like badasses] crash a laser tag joint with some serious intent to injure). Listen for the little kid yelling for someone to dial 911....classic.

Strange Times

come see this band for FREE

Just announced:

QUIETDRIVE Presented with River Fest
FRIDAY, APRIL 25th
9:00 PM
IOWA MEMORIAL UNION MAIN LOUNGE
***FREE ADMISSION***

You've heard their hit cover of "Time After Time" on the radio, now come see these boys rock out live. It's the perfect way to celebrate the end of the year, bring your friends. Holla.

Here's what to expect at the show:



Unfamiliar with RiverFest? Here is some history that SCOPE is happy to put on a concert for...

In its beginning, RiverFest began as a small event that cost about $2500 and attracted a crowd of about 750 people. At its peak in the mid- and late 80’s, RiverFest was an 11-day celebration that cost up to $70,000 to produce. Some previous daytime events included a carnival, KidsFest, performances by the Swing Dance Club, UI Dance Team, Cheerleading Squad, and Dance Marathon, Taste of Iowa City, a rock climbing wall by the Army ROTC, lawn game tournament, and student organization and business information booths. The evening activities have included a Battle of the Bands and performances by many up-and-coming musical groups such as Euforchestra and Critical Hour.

Today, Riverfest is one of the largest and most successful student-organized events on campus. It has expanded to meet the changing needs of students and the community. Now In its 30th year, RiverFest has refocused its efforts around the music. A weekend concert festival with great food, fun attractions, and (of course) quality music.

Hop in the Delorean with Some Italians

As Easter is approaching, I am preparing to spend some quality time with the FBI (Full Blooded Italians). YES!!! this means, "Mob Hits" and "The Best of the Rat Pack"! And growing up listening to these musical geniuses has done a number on me, let me tell you. I bought a car with an oversized trunk for dead bodies, and keep a freezer in my basement. Ok just kidding, about that last part...
But more importantly, I still love those hits from back in the day...way before we were born... and I want YOU to TOO! (if you don't already) . Of course we are all always on the hunt for new great music, artists, and artsy fartsy lyrics.. but my point is, there's always the great vocalists from the 40's, 50's, and early '60's to fall back on. Some of these are still shockingly hip despite their old-fashioned sound and conservative instrumentals. They're refreshing, you'll be surprised.
Here's a list of some great Italians, not including myself.

Nancy Sinatra-- So Long, Babe/These Boots are Made for Walkin'
Rosemary Clooney-- Mambo Italiano
Franky Sinatra-- Nice 'n Easy/ My Way/ Same Old Saturday Night/ Angel Eyes
Dean Martin-- Ain't that a Kick in the Head/ Volare
Louis Prima--Penises.. I mean... Pennies from Heaven
Tony Bennett-- The Best is Yet to Come
Bobby Darin-- Mack the Knife/ Beyond the Sea

Sammy Davis Jr-- Mr. Bojangles/ Love Me or Leave Me

Another plea for some skinny love.

Bon Iver has been mentioned on this blog countless times and here I go again. I have been on SCOPE for nearly 3 years, and I don't think I have ever fallen in love with someone and his music so fast. This entire album is incredible. I would go as far to compare this album to your family dog--It is able to offer companionship when you are happy or sad. I am not going to bore you with his great reviews at Pitchfork,Spin, or the New York Times, but instead ask you to listen to this song twice. yes twice.. only because those who I have offered this beautiful gift to always appreciated it more the 2nd time through (truth). He is playing at the IMU Blackbox on April 5th as a part of Mission Creek Festival. It is only $8. Come see, and if you don't feel it was money well spent (it will be) then I will buy you a beer afterwards, as I will be walking on clouds.



**Pay special attention to stanza 4.. hot lyrics, haha.

-----------------------------------------------------------------

"Skinny Love" -

Come on skinny love just last the year
Pour a little salt we were never here
My, my, my, my, my, my, my, my
Staring at the sink of blood and crushed veneer



I tell my love to wreck it all
Cut out all the ropes and let me fall
My, my, my, my, my, my, my, my
Right in the moment this order's tall



I told you to be patient
I told you to be fine
I told you to be balanced
I told you to be kind
In the morning I'll be with you
But it will be a different "kind"
I'll be holding all the tickets
And you'll be owning all the fines



Come on skinny love what happened here
Suckle on the hope in lite brassiere
My, my, my, my, my, my, my, my
Sullen load is full; so slow on the split


I told you to be patient
I told you to be fine
I told you to be balanced
I told you to be kind
Now all your love is wasted?
Then who the hell was I?
Now I'm breaking at the britches
And at the end of all your lines



Who will love you?
Who will fight?
Who will fall far behind?

Chicks That Rock (hey, Hayley, you spell your name funny and don't rock as hard as this chick)

For those of you who can appreciate a kick-ass frontwoman, I give you Jemina Pearl. The Be Your Own Pet singer reminds me of a younger, slightly less volatile, slightly more spritely Karen O as she shimmies and shakes around on stage. BYOP have a new album coming out this Tuesday which builds upon, but doesn't stray to far from, their garage punk sound. And although they don't necessarily bring anything new to the table, they do bring a refreshing and youthful blast of that old-school punk aesthetic that's sure to get some fists pumping. On the catchy-as-hell "Becky", Jemina cheekily sings of BFF betrayal while BYOP mix 50s girl group verses with some grungy Sonics-style call and response choruses. Moral of the song: do NOT piss off Jemina, or she'll be waiting for you after class with a replacement best friend and some sharp objects.

DOWNLOAD: Be Your Own Pet - Becky

Author's Note: Jemina can out shimmy, out shake, out rock, and out punk that Hayley girl any day of the week. "Hayley" spelled with two "y"s? Who does she think she is? Does Hayley even have her driver's license yet? Jemina's old enough to buy booze. Hey, maybe Jemina can babysit Hayley sometime. Maybe teach her a thing or two.

you could be a part...time...model

Flight of the Conchords, of HBO fame, have released the cover art for their upcoming May 12 full length studio release (see above). Track listings are as follows:

01. Foux Da Fa Fa

02. Inner City Pressure

03. Hiphopopotamus vs. Rhymenoceros

04. Think About It

05. Ladies of the World

06. Mutha'uckas

07. The Prince of Parties

08. Leggy Blonde

09. Robots

10. Boom

11. A Kiss Is Not a Contract

12. The Most Beautiful Girl (in the Room)

13. Business Time

14. Bowie

15. Au Revoir

I personally cannot wait to have "The Most Beautiful Girl in the Room" available for my listening pleasure whenever I want. Until the CD drops, enjoy the video of this track below.

my heart is an idiot

Always a sucker for over-the-top emo lyrics and adorable redheads, I have been seduced by Paramore latest single "That's What You Get." This song has graced many an "over him" play list since its release on the band's now platinum album Riot! in January 2007.

The song weaves bouncy lyric driven beats with a hard rock (as hard as radio punk can get) chorus. Please overlook lines like "why do we like to hurt so much?" and skip to the chorus. It pretty much sums up the stereotypical unrequited love affair and the feelings of self loathing that creep in when it become clear that nothing is ever going to happen with said object of affection.

Plus band front woman Hayley Williams can shake it better than any lady in music right now. Disagree with me, I dare you.

Paramore - "That's What You Get"

HAPPY 311 DAY!

Today is March 11th. That means its 3-11 Day! The band 311 has been celebrating this day in concert since 2000, hosting a concert every other year on March 11th in New Orleans for the occasion. A dvd of the event was made in 2004, showing footage the 5 hour long concert/ 72 song set list. As a huge 311 fan myself, I asked for tickets to 311 Day for my high school graduation/birthday present. Eff YEA. My mom and I went that year down to New Orleans and I rocked out at the UNO Lakefront Arena for over 5 hours. It was AWESOME.
So what I'm trying to explain to you is that today is a rockin' day and you should celebrate. Partake in festivities with friends... of which I don't believe I can mention without the threat of getting in trouble by our superiors...
So, you can start by refreshing yourself with this oldie but a goodie-
Down



Everyone jumpin up to the beat
Applied Science- 311 Day 2004

Vampire Does SNL! <3

This past Saturday I opted to stay in and watch Vampire Weekend on SNL. It was brutal sitting through the mind numbing and unnecessarily long skits, but it was all worth it to see my lil' preppies, Vampire Weekend, perform A-Punk and M79. I was really surprised they did M79, but I guess they opted for that seeing as their 2 other popular songs Cape Cod Kwassa Kwassa and Oxford Comma say the F word. Mmmmm. Anyways, I loved it. M79 is one of my faves on the album and they rocked A-Punk. The lead singer, Ezra Koenig, is like the new Alex Turner (Arctic Monkeys). I think they look the same and awkwardly yet rockingly dance and play the guitar the same. Mmmm. VW just makes me purely happy. I would say pure, unadulterated happiness but that wouldn't be the case.
THE MAN already took off A-Punk, so I've only got Vampire Weekend performing M79 on SNL below. <3

Blogotheque Does It Again!

The last time we posted about Blogotheque's amazing "Take Away Shows", it was in an attempt to explain what it is about music that moves us (you'll remember little Parisian kids dancing to music at a level of adorableness that was dangerously close to causing a total cuteness meltdown). This time, the guys manage to capture something a little more primal. The dudes in Yeasayer bring their brand of indie to the tunnels of Paris, accapella style, and turn what tends to be the usual grim feeling of crowded isolation on a subway train ride into a communal celebration of life. Was that last part a little too much? Probably. But its hard to deny picking up on a feeling of connection at the human level as the band earnestly chants "I am so blessed to have spent the time with my family and the friends I love in my short life. I have met so many people I deeply care for". Just look at the dude bouncing behind them. He agrees.

#87.1 - YEASAYER - No need to worry / Redcave
Uploaded by lablogotheque

Check out the other Yeasayer video (just as inspiring) at Blogotheque.

Pants Off Dance Off (pt. 7: "he's got two left feet and he bites my moves, I'm not gonna teach him how to dance! dance! dance!")

It's been quite a bit since we've last given y'all some new tunes by which to twist and shout to, but this one will more than make up for the time away. The Black Kids were all the rage a few months ago thanks to tons of blog buzz for their Wizard of Ahhhs Ep. Whether they have staying power remains to be seen, but at the very least, this song has an extremely good chance of lodging itself firmly in your gray matter. Some lo-fi production, bouncing bass, group cheers and count-downs, and no shortage of synths gives the track a real 80s vibe, which is only compounded by the Robert Smith-esque vocals. Take off those pants and give it a listen.

DOWNLOAD: Black Kids - I'm Not Gonna Teach Your Boyfirend How To Dance With You

Yet another SCOPE opener hitting it big...

In my years at SCOPE, if there's one thing to be overly impressed with, it's our ability to grab artists on the verge of superstar success. A couple years ago it was Fall Out Boy, opening for Taking Back Sunday. They were the shy little introverts who would turn into superstars before our very eyes.

Last year Sherwood and the Hush Sound both opened up for Mae, and now both are on the cusp of greatness. In a few weeks we'll see British pop-rockers Athlete (who are wildly successful across the pond) blow away a Switchfoot crowd in the second floor ballroom on their way to becoming the next big British import.

During Stephen Marley last year, a little-known (except in his adoptive home of Canada) rapper named K'naan blew away a crowd with his Somalian beats and ridiculous rhymes. We knew then that one day he would be carving his own path, and entertaining audiences across the country. He was energetic, charismatic, funny, and knew how to work a crowd.

Well, it's official. K'naan has hit the big time. Touring with Bob Marley's kids is one thing, but singing along side one of pop's biggest and most recognizable faces is a completely different story. K'naan has lent his silky smooth voice to the newest Nelly Furtado song, and he's showing American audiences what people in Iowa City got a taste of last year. The Dusty Foot Philosopher is poised to become the next big thing in hip-hop. A Somali rapper bent on bringing awareness to the world, his message is as good as his music.

Nelly Furtado feat. K'naan - Going Away

Ain't No Reason to Sleep

So I can't fall asleep. At this time of the night/morning it is the only time you can find music videos on TV. I was watching vh1 from my comfy bed and came upon the video from a song that I have liked for some time. Now I can't fall asleep because I will be thinking about it. Make sure you watch it up until the end. I must admit that the angle Brett gives to the camera is more than creepy, but the message is more important.

Brett Dennen - "Ain't No Reason"

Jeff Tweedy Speaks Out About Migraines, Mood Disorders

http://migraine.blogs.nytimes.com/2008/03/05/shaking-it-off/

"There are a lot of different ways migraines have affected my music, and vice versa: being a musician has allowed me — for lack of a better phrase — to rise above the pain from time to time. I’ve never missed a show because of a migraine. But I’ve played some really horrible shows and cut them short because there was very little I could do to keep going. I’ve played shows where I had bucket on the side of the stage where I threw up in between songs regularly. There’ve been a lot of horrible experiences trying to, well, you know, have the show go on."

Read this article. Not only is Jeff Tweedy a role model musician, he is finally conquering the stigmas attached to speaking out about mood disorders. Just when I thought it wasn't possible for me to love Jeff Tweedy any more that I already do, he amazes me that much more. He exemplifies what music can mean to a person and it just shows what he has meant to music as a whole. It takes a great amount of courage to go public with a mood disorder and an addiction, but I am sure this story will serve as an inspiration to so many. If you don't know who Jeff Tweedy is (shame on you), he is the lead singer of the Grammy-winning band, Wilco, who is based out of Chicago. Please take the time to read the linked article.

Wilco/Jeff Tweedy - "More Like The Moon"

Where do they stack up? (#2 ...of whatever)

So I am sitting in my room, refusing to do a ten page paper... and refusing to do a 55 minute presentation, too, and I've decided it's finally time to set up part two of the "where do the bands of my youth stack up?" Do they stand the test of time? Are they bands we can listen to today and proudly state "I listened to them as a kid, and they KICKED ASS!" Or... should I be ashamed of my youth?

So here it is, without further adieu:
Third Eye Blind.


San Francisco pop-rockers 3eb, known for catchy hooks, kickin' beats, and a singer with range that could knock your socks off, formed in the early 1990s. Bouncing around the vibrant San Francisco club scene for a couple years, the rockers hit it big in 1997 with their self-titled album:

Third Eye Blind met remarkable success, going several times platinum on the strength of singles "Jumper", "Semi-Charmed Life", "Graduate", "Losing a Whole Year", and "How's it Gonna Be?". Selling over 6 million albums, the rockers were riding high, doing gigs on SNL and holding the top spot on the Billboard Rock Charts for 6 weeks.

Their follow-up, Blue, wasn't as commercially successful as their debut, but still went platinum twice over. Four singles were released: "Anything", "Ten Days Later", "Never Let You Go", and "Deep Inside of You".

The band went on a hiatus for a few years following Blue, and returned in 2003 with Out of the Vein, which released two singles "Blinded", and "Crystal Baller". The album wasn't a mainstream commercial success (in comparison to their other multiplatinum releases), selling only 500,000 copies worldwide.

Now, in 2008, 3eb is setting to release their fourth album, tentatively titled The Hideous Strength.

The Week In New Music: March 11th

With so much new music coming out every week, keeping track of all the releases can become a little overwhelming. Feel free to stop over here at the SCOPE blog every Sunday for an extensive (although not exhaustive) list of the week's upcoming releases. And for those in the Iowa City area, be sure to support local businesses and pick up your brand spanking new music at Real Records (a phenomenal record store with an extensive collection of new and old CD and vinyl, located on the corner of Linn and Market) or the well known Record Collector (located near the corner of College and Linn).

US Releases for Tuesday, March 11:

Dr. Manhattan "Dr. Manhattan"
Fat Joe "Elephant in the Room"
Kaki King "Dreaming of Revenge"
Presidents of the United States of America "These are the Good Times People"
Rick Ross "Trilla"
Saosin "Come Close"
Simon & Garfunkel "Live 1969"
Sarah Slean "The Baroness"
Saving Abel "Saving Abel"
Snoop Dogg "Ego Trippin'"
Van Morrison "Keep It Simple"
Why? "Alopecia"

May Cause Seizures [and I am not kidding]

I know I ran around last week telling everyone to watch the new Gnarls Barkley video, "Run," but before you make the dash to watch the killer vid...BEWARE.....it really could be a killer. The video is in the process of being re-edited because the strobe effects throughout the video may cause seizures! Who knew?? It was quoted in a Billboard report, "Because of its strobe effects, the video failed the Harding Test, which is used to tell whether or not televised images might trigger epileptic seizures." Certain shows, outlets, etc. have been banning the video until it is edited to pass the Harding Test.

Anyway, I have lived through watching the video multiple times, so take a gander if you think your body can withstand the strobes of awesomeness. The cameo by Justin Timberlake is quite amusing, but then again he seems to be popping up in the most random places these days [supposedly he is going to be the executive producer of an NBC sitcom?]. There are many great elements of the video that bring it back into the hip-hop roots. That is one of the main reasons why I have really appreciated Gnarls Barkley -- they showcase the MC and the DJ as a group and as mutual stars. I may not be the biggest fan of this song, but the video has definitely upped it for me. It reminds me of an old Soul Train episode.

Watch...if you dare!

Album Alert!

So I'm not too sure how this slipped beneath my radar for sooo long, but apparently the French Kicks are spitting out a new album, Swimming, to be release via iTunes on April 1st, and in stores on May 20th. In general, it seems the French Kicks get written off as just another NYC band attempting to put on air of coolness that just isn't there, and, to be honest, I don't know where this comes from. Music critics can be real wankers sometimes, so its best not to put too much stock in what they have to say. While the French Kicks are by no means my favorite band, I was definitely a fan of their last release, Two Thousand. They remind of a little more melodic/poppier version of the Walkmen, with some less strained vocals. If this first track is any indication, this album's gonna be perfect music to open up the windows to and let the spring air in. Enjoy.

DOWNLOAD: French Kicks - Abandon

More Videos: Thao Nguyen

Sorry for the overload of videos, but there's just too much good stuff goin' down. Like Bon Iver below, we've also warned y'all to be on the look out for Thao this year, and here she is, jammin' away in cute clay form.

Video: The Wolves (Act I and II)

Welp, we advised you to be on the lookout months ago. Then we advised you again. Then we recommended it. Then, with the help of the awesome gang at Mission Creek, we booked it. And now, Bon Iver's back in your face with a brand new video that perfectly compliments the album and the song's wintry feel. Here's the first video off of Bon Iver's critically acclaimed debut, For Emma, Forever Ago. And don't forget that, starting this Monday, you can buy tickets to this show and any other Mission Creek show, OR you can get a pass that will get you access to any show for the whole festival.

Band To Know: Fleet Foxes

If you haven't already heard of these guys, you probably will in the near future. The guys at Mission Creek have snagged 'em for a satellite show for this year's awesome Mission Creek Festival. Combine that with a an EP that received an 8.7 from PFork and a full-length to come in the summer, and you've got a recipe for success. Garnering a lot of comparisons to CSN&Y and Grizzly Bear, Fleet Foxes' songs are usually full of gentle acoustic picking/strumming and complex and gorgeous harmonies. The song "White Winter Hymnal" conjures up an image of walking through Lord of the Rings-esque forests, accompanied by singing hobbits and elves....it's cooler than it sounds, although, to be honest, that sounds pretty cool to me.


DOWNLOAD: Fleet Foxes - White Winter Hymnal

The Show in Review: Ben Folds

As tragic as it was that G. Love was cancelled, I would have to say that Ben Folds was the perfect start to our outstanding spring lineup. And I think it's definately fair to say that the sold out crowd would agree with me. Ben Folds must have felt the overwhelming energy the audience had because he put on an amazing show for the hour and a half he rocked out on stage. Whether or not you call yourself a Ben Folds fan - I think we can all agree that Mr. Folds and his band have some serious talent. I was in awe by the effortless way he played his piano and sang. He sets the bar so high for piano rock. At a few different points in the show he was even shaking a maraca, singing flawlessly, and playing his piano in a way that would take me years to imitate correctly.

I have to confess that it was so hard for me contain myself during the show because he was so phenomenal. He played a few new, great tracks off of his album that he claims he just finished a few days ago. Given this preview of his new album, I can say for sure that I will be buying his new cd the second it hits the shelves. Of course, he also played some of his older, more popular jams that really got the crowd excited - including his infamous remake of Dr. Dre's "Bitches Ain't Shit." My sole dissapointment with the show was that he did not play "The Luckiest" or "Rockin' the Suburbs," which are two of his more well known tunes. However, I guess the fact that he recorded his lively Iowa City audience making noises, screaming, and cheering to mix into his new album made me forgive him just a little.

Overall, the show was spectacular and it may be pretty hard to top this excellence in the future. Ben Folds has the same flawless sound live as he does in his albums and that is something really rare these days.

review and photos courtesy of SCOPE's very own Rachel T. Mardoian

Beach House (Bingo!)

For anyone like me who is a sap for two souls musically entwined with romantic consciousness*, The pop duo Beach House is sure to tickle your ears by combining baby-fawn-of-early-spring-like-charm with dense, musically energetic melodies. The duo, Alex Scally and Victoria Legrand, hail from Baltimore; a city known for other indie favs as Animal Collective and Dan Deacon. Their newest release Devotion, is a colorful collection of songs that push the line between beautiful and bothered with echoing chasms of organ, percussion, and guitar. Songs like “Saltwater", "Apple Orchard", "Tokyo Witch", and "Master of None" all provide easy access to enjoying this band.



*(see also Torguil Campell & Amy Millan of Stars, Sunny & Cher, Gwen Stefani & Gavin Rossdale)

Cover Me!: Flux

Any Bloc-heads out there were probably as thrown for a loop as I was when they first heard Bloc Party's one-off single, Flux. Not sure if it grew as quickly on all of you as it did on me, but count me as one of the converted. I would definitely be down for some pantless dancing to tunes like that. But here, Flux gets a jazz-lounge make over, complete with acoustic plucking, light drumming, and airy female vocals. Check it.

DOWNLOAD: Flux (Bloc Party cover) - Birch Street Project

Sexy Non-Sex

The Virgins are a four piece from New York that have been making more than a few ripples in the blogosphere since spring of '07, and have been steadily picking up momentum with audio appearances on episodes of Entourage and Gossip Girls. Following in the footsteps of other New York new rock acts like the Strokes, the Virgins are putting out catchy, jangly guitar and bass-driven songs about their frustration with (rich) girls that they presumably want to bone-slang with. As of right now, they've only got a 5-song ep out (available via their myspace or itunes), but expect a full-length to blow them into your peripheral in the near future. As for me, I'm a fan based on the name alone. Any time anyone makes a lack of physical contact with the ladies cool, well, that's just A-Okay by me.

DOWNLOAD: The Virgins - Rich Girls
DOWNLOAD: The Virgins - Love Is Colder Than Death

Rough set list from SCOPE's Ben Folds concert last night (in no order):

Errant Dog
Gone
Effington
Losing Lisa
Hiroshima
Free Coffee
Landed
There's Always Someone Cooler Than You
Still Fighting It
Brick
Fred Jones
Lullaby
Kylie from Connecticut
Kate
Zak + Sara
Bitches Ain't Shit
Army
Rock This Bitch
Narcolepsy
The Bitch Went Nuts
One Angry Dwarf

Since I was trying to write a paper and missed "Brick" like an idiot, I'm going to have to give the best song of the night to "Narcolepsy." The dream-like piano melody that drives the intro comes across better live than in studio versions. Below is a live clip of the song from a previous concert so you can get the full effect:

The Week In New Music: March 4th

With so much new music coming out every week, keeping track of all the releases can become a little overwhelming. Feel free to stop over here at the SCOPE blog every Sunday for an extensive (although not exhaustive) list of the week's upcoming releases. And for those in the Iowa City area, be sure to support local businesses and pick up your brand spanking new music at Real Records (a phenomenal record store with an extensive collection of new and old CD and vinyl, located on the corner of Linn and Market) or the well known Record Collector (located near the corner of College and Linn).

US Releases for Tuesday, March 4:

Shirley Bassey "Get the Party Started"
Bauhaus "Go Away White" (final album)
Bing Ji Ling "June Degrees In December"
The Black Crowes "Warpaint"
Cadence Weapon "Afterparty Babies"
Dr. Dog "Passed Away"
Kathleen Edwards "Asking for Flowers"
Flogging Molly "Float"
Ghostland Observatory "Robotique Majestique"
Gutter Twins "Saturnalia"
Jessy J "Tequila Moon"
Alan Jackson "Good Time"
Michael McDonald "Soul Speak"
Murder By Death "Red of Tooth and Claw"
The OaKs "Songs For Waiting"
Our Last Night "The Ghost Among Us"
Stephen Malkmus and the Jicks "Real Emotional Trash"
Colin Stetson "New History Warfare, Volume 1"

New Tokyo Police Club

April 22nd is the set release date for the brand new album from Tokyo Police Club, Elephant Shell. It is a highly anticipated follow up to the Canadian indie rock band's past album, A Lesson in Crime. I saw these guys when I worked Lollapalooza this year and they had a pretty stoked crowd in comparison to other acts that played the stage in front of the hardcore Pearl Jam fans who didn't care much about the predecessors to the finale. As much as I liked A Lesson in Crime, this new single doesn't quite wow me at the first listen, however, I am sure that it will wear well on me. The single has the same energetic feel and doesn't stray too far away from their original sound, however, I feel like it doesn't have the same distinct percussion that pervious singles have. Listen for yourself.

Tokyo Police Club - "In a Cave"

i'm the shan who loves you

I was planning to stay in tonight to let my liver take a breather, but then I was reminded that Wilco will be performing on Saturday Night Live, an event that makes the idea of curling up on the couch with my laptop seem like the best thing to happen in a long time.

The band is featured in today's Des Moines Register in a preview for their upcoming concert next Sunday at the Val Air Ballroom in West Des Moines. The show will no doubt be amazing...the performance they put on at the UI last fall certainly was. It's this ability to perform that makes tonight's live TV performance even more exciting.

I'm actually geeking out trying to guess which songs the group will play. My money's on "Impossible Germany," a song played every single night during the band's sold-out five day stay in Chicago. Now I know music is no exception to the quality not quantity rule, but this song is so addictive that it deserves to be played every night.

Rated #71 on Rolling Stone's list of the 100 Best Song of 2007, "Impossible Germany" is the type of slow burn guitar jam that will haunt you after one listen. The dueling guitar solos that comprise the last three minutes of the song are irresistibly sexy and showcase the band's musical talent.

Don't say I didn't warn you when you feel compelled to give your make out friend a call early tonight after giving it a spin. As for me, I'll be on the couch doing homework on a Saturday night. Rock and roll.

Wilco - "Impossible Germany"