F Here's a donation request letter from FMC, a group I've been interning with in DC the past few months. Throw us a few bones if you're feeling philanthropic. It really would go to a great cause . . . "There has never been a more important time to contribute to the future of music. As the music community continues its rocky shift to a largely digital platform, there are unprecedented policy questions before us. At this point in history, seemingly disparate issues — from spectrum reform to media ownership to internet regulatory structures to copyright — are now inextricably linked. Yet it’s crucial that we not ignore the perspective of the artists themselves as we work towards creative solutions to shared challenges. Future of Music Coalition exists to amplify musicians’ voices on the issues that affect their livelihood. From artists’ right to expression to access to media like radio and the internet, FMC seeks to inject the creator viewpoint into broader issues of public policy. You can help with this mission. I'm inviting you to join me as a proud supporter of FMC. FMC’s programs and campaigns: 1. assist artists in becoming empowered self-advocates 2. help musicians to understand their health insurance options 3. defend open internet principles that inspire a level playing field for all musicians 4. improve conditions in radio so more artists can reach the airwaves 5. provide platforms for musicians to engage directly in policy debates
http://futureofmusic.org/donate
The future of music is bright, provided we seize this historic opportunity to create structures that reward artists and allow for the kind of innovation that will inspire audiences. Through education, research and advocacy, FMC has become the voice on issues at the intersection of music, technology, policy and law. Their mission to improve the lives of musicians couldn’t be more critical, and you can help carry it forward."
http://futureofmusic.org/donate
12.01.2009
An Intern Moment
11.23.2009
RIYL: suburban rooftop blues, sunbaked daydreams, and the call of the beach
Putting the drift in driftwood on Woodsist records (2009)
There's something powerful and alluring about the thought of escaping to the beach. It's cliche for sure; yet its endlessly appealing all the same. Visions of careless backstrokes and sprawling atop warm beds of sand hold a promise of comfort that's a welcome relief from the drear of mundane daily life.
The New Jerseyans who make up the band Real Estate know this beach-longing well, as they've captured its sentiment in full on their striking debut record. On standout cuts like "Fake Blues" and "Beach Comber," melodic surf-guitar lines float alongside slack-jaw drums and lead singer Matthew Mondanile's wistful, toned-down singing. On its surface the music's sunny vibes evoke a youthful optimism for the possible. However, once the album's sedative pace fully sets in its clear there's just as much resignation here as hope. In other words, the good times are past and suburban ennui is here to stay---at least until summer returns next year. In the meantime, give this gorgeous record a spin.
There's something powerful and alluring about the thought of escaping to the beach. It's cliche for sure; yet its endlessly appealing all the same. Visions of careless backstrokes and sprawling atop warm beds of sand hold a promise of comfort that's a welcome relief from the drear of mundane daily life.
The New Jerseyans who make up the band Real Estate know this beach-longing well, as they've captured its sentiment in full on their striking debut record. On standout cuts like "Fake Blues" and "Beach Comber," melodic surf-guitar lines float alongside slack-jaw drums and lead singer Matthew Mondanile's wistful, toned-down singing. On its surface the music's sunny vibes evoke a youthful optimism for the possible. However, once the album's sedative pace fully sets in its clear there's just as much resignation here as hope. In other words, the good times are past and suburban ennui is here to stay---at least until summer returns next year. In the meantime, give this gorgeous record a spin.
11.16.2009
RIYL: free and easy folk-rock, tea at sunrise, and a tamer Devendra Banhart
Sub Pop records (2009)
After three steadily overlooked albums of sweet and gentle folk-jams, Andy Cabic took his San Francisco-based band on up the road to record their latest album under Sub Pop's illustrious black and white banner. The supportive backing of such a reputable label has certainly helped spread the reach of Vetiver's charming tunes, but the veteran quality of the band's music is still undeniable on its own. On Tight Knit, Cabic leads Banhart and the the rest of the Vetiver cast through acoustic songs that are mellow, rolling, and very well polished---never demanding or affronting in any way. Easy listening doesn't get any better than this.
11.11.2009
RIYL: the ivories tickled, group singing, and the Basement Tapes of today
on the Avett Brothers' Ramseur records (2009)
More Ketchup. Against the grain of fidelity-unconscious garage rockers that seemed the dominant musical trend of 2009, the North Carolina-bred Bombadil manage to still focus on substance over style, writing piano-led music that's difficult to classify but easily identified for its peculiar wit and magnetism. Some have even gone so far as to mention The Band in Bombadil's description. There's also something of the Mountaingoats and Ben Folds in their sound, although much less obnoxious if you ask me.
11.10.2009
New Orleans' horns, bands big enough to fill a short bus, and old-world folkpop
blowin' worldly and woozy on B3nson records (2009)
Time to play catch-up.
Check out the new EP from this Albany, NY collective. Reminds me at times of Devotchka, Beirut, and even Neutral Milk Hotel. Sounds just like it's titled.
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