The Violens (pronounced vy-lenz) is the new band to beat. This four-piece group out of Brooklyn, NY writes flawlessly with “Violent Sensation Descends” as one of SPIN Magazine’s songs you need to download now. Why stop there? Their tracks bring you back in time in the most relevant way. ”Lighting Lightning” is like Morrissey in a new wave rock band. The Violens are like a compilation of all your favorite artists with a new and improved 60′s pop spin.
Here is their new video: If you like this be sure to grab a ticket to their upcoming show at the Bowery Ballroom on June 12th.
Pretty Lights, also known as Producer Derek Vincent Smith has done it again. His debut Lp “Taking Up Your Precious Time,” was released in the Fall of 2006. The LP caught world wide intrigue with its 15 tracks of instrumental hip hop/jazz numbers with vocals that are intertwined within each track.
His most recent album Filling Up The Skies is two discs, that is 26 tracks, of spicy dance remixes guaranteed to get the floor bouncing. Dont believe us? Check out two of the songs for yourself “Hot Like Sauce” and “The Time Has Come.” What sets Pretty Lights apart from the rest is Derek’s uncanny ability to bring together funk rock, electronica and hip hop. His live shows are known for getting the dance floor hot and sticky with dancing fools. Lucky for New Yorkers his next stop is Bowery Ballroom on Wednesday May 13th.
Lewis & Clark opened up for Bat For Lashes last Thursday at The Bowery Ballroom. The Pennsylvania folk band geared the crowd up perfectly for Bat For Lashes’ cosmic set. Unfortunately for the band by the time they were done playing we were all ready to shut up and listen to some music.
Amongst glowing plastic angels and a miniature version of the leg lamp in A Christmas Story, Bat For Lashes played one of the best shows I have ever seen. The intoxicating Natasha Kahn commanded your attention with her killer outfit and goosebump inducing voice. Aside from Morrissey fans, I have never seen New Yorkers that giddy. Glittered cheek fans danced their tales off to”Glass,” ”Horse and I,” “Whats A Girl To Do?” and “Pearls Dream” and listened with adoration to more intimate tracks like “Sleep Alone,” “Traveling Woman,” and “Peace of Mind.”
Does You Inspire, released in November, 2008, is Chairlift‘s first album. The band began playing in 2006 in Colorado where they found themselves rocking a “new breed of pop” with their mystical, somewhat spooky tunes. Chairlift created a lot of buzz when their single “Bruises” was featured in a recent Ipod commercial.
Caroline Polachek, Aaron Pfenning and Patrick Wimberly, make up the Chairlift this awesome trio, and I suggest you check them out on October 18th @ Bowery Ballroom, or October 21st for the CMJ Music Marathon.
The CMJ Network provides music fans, musicians, and professionals an up to date “discovery service” as they call it. CMJ hosts the longest running event of its kind, the Music Marathon is going on its 28th year in business. The Marathon brings over 1000+ artists to over 50 venues throughout the city drawing more than 100,000 listeners, other artists, and music pros to the shows. Magnet has come up with a hot 15 list for your viewing pleasure, but please check out the extensive list for more. CMJ has not posted a schedule so dates/venues are tentative.
Music Mararthon hits New York City March 21st-25th
Lykke Li, also known as Li Lykke Timotej Zachrisson, is from Stolkholm, Sweden. A former dancer for Swedish TV, Lykke Li released her first album in the States, Youth Novels, this past May, 2008.
I find Lykke Li’s music to be captivating. Her speaky-singing voice, simple lyrics and catchy beats produce a light and enjoyable Sedish pop album.
“love is the harmony. desire is the key. love is the melody. now sing it with me.” And who could say no to that?
Lykke Li is playing at both the Music Hall of Williamsburg, October 20th, and Bowery Ballroom, October 21st. Both shows are sold out. If you have tickets I demand you come back here and give some feedback.
Lewis & Clark opened up for Bat For Lashes last Thursday at The Bowery Ballroom. The Pennsylvania folk band geared the crowd up perfectly for Bat For Lashes’ cosmic set. Unfortunately for the band by the time they were done playing we were all ready to shut up and listen to some music.
Amongst glowing plastic angels and a miniature version of the leg lamp in A Christmas Story, 
