Album Review:: Watching the Sky | Sheppard

So, full disclosure: I didn’t even know this album was coming. And that was such a treat, because I’ve been wanting more from this band for a while. I was a big fan of 2015’s Bombs Away, and their set in Albany when they rolled through town a year or two ago was a blast. So, when I heard Sheppard were finally back for their follow-up, I was eager to see where these last three years have brought them.

The angelic, calm introduction “Watching the Sky” begins the album on a build, dropping directly into “Coming Home” after a brief minute-long instrumental. Early on, it seems like during this gap between albums, the six-piece perfected their layered, swirling-vocals brand of pop, and Exhibit A shows its face immediately. Following right on its heels is “Keep Me Crazy,” another top pick, with George Sheppard carrying the weight. Sister/co-vocalist Amy takes the reins on “Love Me Now,” a swaying, swooning example of the success that Sheppard’s multi-vocalist formula can create.

Watching the Sky has its patches of clouds. There are things that I’m probably just nitpicking (and I’ll admit I am), that aren’t quite negatives, but could be better. “We Belong” is good, and it only reaches “good.” The pre-chorus of “now that we’ve lit this fire / we’ve got to fan the flame” has the potential for a huge note, but instead gets held in-check. Like I said, still good, it just could have hit a peak. Amy’s strong vocals on “Live For You”  reinforce this notion, proving she can deliver. Here, however, a powerful vocal performance can’t fully recover from the cringeworthy lyrics  – “Are we really breaking up / Wasn’t I enough for you / I gave my very best / But I failed every test you put me through.” It salvages itself, for the most part, but the first impression is a wince.

“Choke” is catchy and “It’s been a little while since you even said a word / if you never get to first then you’ll never get to third” is a great line but the track feels like Macarena 2.0 and I can’t shake that comparison. Sorry. And I swear, I’ll get back to more positives very soon, but I there’s one more moment I need to mention and if you’ve heard the album you know exactly what it is. “Edge Of the Night” is an upbeat, funky dancealong. And then out of nowhere, it drops into an almost comically deep-voiced chorus that is too sexy for itself. And yet, here I am again, convincing myself that it doesn’t not work? It’s wild and unexpected and confusing and I’d be lying if I said it wasn’t at least fun. Plus, if you imagine Amy Sheppard as the one bellowing along, it makes it much better.

As promised, there’s more here to be appreciated. After the lukewarm “Live For You,” “Sorry” is the perfect reset; a wall-shaking power ballad with some of George’s best contribution on the record. Saving the best for [near] last, “Castaways” makes a late appearance and a lasting impact; a track so perfect for summer you’ll wish it were longer than just three months. Last, “I Was Lost” is a culmination of everything Sheppard can do well and know they do well. Starting gentle, it builds and adds elements throughout, with both Sheppards’ voices bouncing off one another as it gains momentum before a soaring conclusion.

After a week of play-throughs, I was torn. Still kind of am, if we’re being honest. On one hand, I told myself Watching the Sky doesn’t really do a whole lot of anything drastically new, so I should be bummed, right? But on the other, that’s not to say it’s all just more of the same here. Where they have found their best success – bold, bright, infectious pop music, these aspects are more refined and expanded on than ever. So where it might seem similar to things you’ve heard, it’s a better version of that. Like I said, I’m torn. So I’ll say this: some moments fizzle and some lyrics fall flat here and there, but all in all, Watching the Sky is a fun, energetic celebration that has the band showcasing great improvements and big steps forward.

Release Date: June 8th, 2018
Rating: 3.33/5
Run Time:

Check Out: “Castaways,” “Keep Me Crazy,” “Sorry”
For Fans Of: Bleachers, MisterWives, Gin Wigmore

Track Listing:
1. Watching the Sky
2. Coming Home
3. Keep Me Crazy
4. Love Me Now
5. We Belong
6. Edge of the Night
7. Live for You
8. Sorry
9. Choke
10. Call Me Up
11. Hometown
12. Castaways
13. Ride the Wave
14. I Was Lost

The Weather Report: Rich Aucoin

Canadian singer/songwriter Rich Aucoin has never been one to do things normally. On top of executing his musical releases in brilliant ways, such as how his debut EP Personal Publication syncs up perfectly with How The Grinch Stole Christmas, he is also an extraordinary person looking to give back to the community. He previously biked across Canada and back, running a half-marathon in every city and raising money for childhood leukemia research for The Childhood Cancer Foundation. As if that wasn’t enough, Aucoin decided on round two, an untraditional tour titled Press On where he rode his bicycle from Los Angeles to New York,  raising awareness for mental health by donating 100% of tour proceeds to Mental Health America and The Canadian Mental Health Association. 

Needless to say, when we heard about Rich Aucoin’s mission to raise money for mental health, we knew we had to ask him the question: If you were the sky, what kind of day would you be? You can read Aucoin’s Weather Report below.

Album Review: Here We Go Love | The English Beat

The English Beat have returned to the scene with their first album since 1982’s Special Beat Service. A lot has happened since then, much less in the short span between their 1980 debut I Just Can’t Stop It and 1981’s Wha’ppen? which denoted a departure in sound from their ska influences towards Caribbean and Roots Reggae. The English Beat is known for taking fun and sunny tropical arrangements with subject matters that are dark, frank and cerebral. With the release of Here We Go Love, a title that indicates optimism, we dive into lyrics that are even more unsettling with an undercurrent of dread. This would seem appropriate, given the current political climate, and it would seem Dave Wakeling has decided, with decades of observation under his belt, that this would be the time to release a new album.

Here We Go Love is a collection of songs that have the same frantic energy and frenzy of their debut album. The album still has a familiar feel, with melodies that are reminiscent of their two tone ska days but with a modern kick utilizing lyrics that pertain to the today’s climate (lyrics that may be categorized as dark, confused, questioning, and pessimistic). In other words, it’s a natural progression in the band’s sound over the last few decades, a progression which we had not heard until now, where it was built up to a loud crescendo in the form of this release. The songs still retain the bright, Calypso-infused feel, but lyrically, Dave goes into the paranoia, fear, and corruption of the 21st century.

The album opens up with “How Can You Stand There,” a catchy organ opens up before going into a steady, rhythmic ska beat. The track explodes with upbeat energy while the lyrics draws on themes of taking action at a time of despair. The production on the album is superb, making use of the clarity of each instrument- like an 80’s production with an extra sheen. The lyrics here are intelligent and expressive, drawing upon themes of a tumultuous time within the last few years. The tunes are catchy, as to be expected, and the rhythm section is thumping, fast, and driving.

“The One and the Only,” a surprisingly cynical song, has a lovely piano solo in the middle of the song that breaks up a song about an unlikeable man. The song deals with themes of blame and finger pointing and, according to Wakeling, examines “the Donald Trump in all of us. The cutting condemnation of leaders and situations leads to multiple use of expletives scattered throughout the album, which juxtaposes with the cheery, happy-go-lucky melody and upbeat instrumentation. The song, “Here We Go Love,” has a carefree attitude, yet questions the logic of that attitude- “sick and tired, mad as fuck, that much lying can’t stand up,” Wakeling surfs through a pulsating drumming section and background vocals while simultaneously proclaiming, here is what I want to say, take it or leave it.

The album becomes a musical rollercoaster as the the music and themes become two separate entities, yet there are moments of earnest happiness. “The Love You Give” starts off with an excellent guitar lick and, as a change of pace, has optimistically romantic lyrics that may be jarring yet provide reprieve from the darkness. “Every Time You Told Me” has a danceable, grooving background chorus – “I told you I told you I told you” that I found to be irresistible. Every song here has a strong hook that keeps the album moving at a breathy pace, despite a runtime of almost an hour.

Here We Go Love is a very clever album, one that may not reveal its sophistication upon an initial listen. You’ll find yourself moving to the music, but a close listen will reveal the lyrics of a dark time and coming to terms with it through a bright, splattered burst of Ska, Reggae, Dub, Latin and other tropical influences. The vocals throughout are very strong- I was reminded of Elvis Costello, but backed with even more swagger. The band still retains its edge while creating grooves. They leave no stones unturned, and while the songs themselves may be too heavy under lesser hands, they present it in the from of clear-eyed, rhythmic tunes that instead become healing.

Release Date: June 15, 2018
Rating: 4/5

Track listing:
1. how can you stand there?
2. the one and the only
3. redemption time
4. if killing worked
5. here we go love
6. never die
7. the love you give
8. you really oughtta know
9. you’re stuck
10. every time you told me
11. dem call it ska
12. drive her away
13. be there for you

Dance Gavin Dance drops video for “Count Bassy”

Waiting to hear Dance Gavin Dance’s new album when it drops tomorrow? While it’s true that Artificial Skeleton won’t be out for a few more hours, we have something to hold you over until then. The band has dropped a strange and intense video for the song “Count Bassy”.

Centered around a key and the discovery of some photos, the four minute flick can’t be described—so you’ll just have to watch it for yourself. Directed by Mount Emult, it’s truly a wild ride from start to finish. Hit play on the video above!

For more on Dance Gavin Dance: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

Album Review:: Saved | Now, Now

It’s been 6 long years since Now, Now released their emo indie album Threads, that gave us the contagious taste of aggressive strumming and vocals filled with ethereal emotional tension. With years to write and produce the follow up, there comes pressure to deliver the perfect album of originality, newness, and pleasing the masses. Though Now, Now already teased us a year in advance with “SGL” that left us anticipating more. The first single only showed a glimpse of Saved–some slow ease into the departure of the familiar gritty sounds of guitar and the first introductions of an indie pop beat.

It’s not an easy feat to switch music stylings, unless you’re Taylor Swift of course. Though Now, Now saw an opening with Saved. With the introduction of the new softer acoustic tones and upbeat synths, Saved is a more subdued emo that focuses more on moody upbeat melodies. It’s more trendy indie pop. Tracks like “MJ”, which pays tribute to the King of Pop, and “Yours” showcases this new direction with electric melodies at the forefront. Though, not songs you’d want to dance to if you listen closely, which creates a bit of confusion. Instead we enter a new realm of taking serious lyrics of love and creating a new feeling of melancholy around it.

However, the duo behind Now, Now have not completely ditched their emo roots that brought their claim to fame. Dalager’s unique and lazy alto vocals float heavy melancholic lyrics about lovers through songs like “Can’t Help Myself” and “Window.” You’ll find yourself coming to terms with a road trip album with songs like “Drive,” which is a personal favorite of mine. Emotional tension delivers strong in the midst of synths, drum machines, and vocals as smoke in a smoke filled room. We see this in the title track, “Saved,” where as the tempo builds, so does the electric drum beats and echoed vocals. Meanwhile, “AZ” will entice older fans to revisit and unravel the layered vocals of Dalager’s the synth lead guitar solos.

Now, Now delivers a solid album that maybe older fans weren’t expecting, but it gives the band much needed space to shape their own style and fill an cross between of indie pop and emo music that doesn’t overlap often. I hope to take Saved on solo road trip into the horizon one of these days.

Release Date: May 5th, 2018
Rating: 3.5/5
Runtime: ~45 minutes

Track listing:
1. SGL
2. MJ
3. Can’t Help Myself
4. AZ
5. Window
6. Holy Water
7. Yours
8. Saved
9. Knowme
10. Drive
11. Set It Free
12. POWDER

Fickle Friends release “Say No More (Acoustic)” and announce special versions EP

Brighton indie pop act Fickle Friends have had a wild 2018 so far. The band released their debut album, You Are Someone Else, via Interscope Records which hit #9 on the Billboard UK Charts and is chock-full of infectious bops, before playing three sold out shows in Brooklyn, Los Angeles, and San Francisco.

Earlier this week, the band released an acoustic version of “Say No More,” a fan favorite  – and a personal favorite of mine as well. The track comes with the announcement of an upcoming EP titled You Are Someone Else (Versions) which will feature special versions of select tracks from the debut release. It goes without saying that we’re beyond excited to see what the neon-filled act will bring to life with this EP and we’ll keep you posted on details as they’re announced!

In the meantime, give “Say No More (Acoustic)” a spin below and thank us later.

Stream the eighth annual Governor’s Ball Live

The eighth annual Governor’s Ball Music Festival, a three-day celebration of music, art, food, and entertainment, has announced a live stream available to watch on DIRECTV NOW and a television broadcast presented by AT&T.

Fans will have a chance to watch LIVE performances from Jack White, Post Malone, The Gaslight Anthem, CHVRCHES, Sylvan Esso, Yeah Yeah Yeahs, and more! (We can’t really stream you the food, sorry.)

Starting today, you can tune in all weekend from 4:45 – 11:00 p.m ET live on Twitter and at ATT.com/GoVBallNYC. DIRECTV/DIRECTV NOW subscribers can also watch special, exclusive performances of headlining acts, behind-the-scene footage, and other bonuses, courtesy of AT&T’s AUDIENCE Network nightly from 8:00 – 11:00 p.m. ET.

Here’s a quick rundown of where you can check out the show each day:

• On Twitter from 4:45 p.m.-11:00 p.m. ET via live.twitter.com/GovBallNYC
  
• On the web from 4:45 p.m.-11:00 p.m. ET via ATT.com/GovBallNYC
• On TV each night from 8:00 p.m.-11:00 p.m. ET via the AT&T AUDIENCE Network (DIRECTV Ch 239, AT&T U-verse Ch 1114, as well as streaming on DIRECTV NOW)

This summer marks the eighth annual edition of New York City’s Governors Ball Music Festival. Featuring performances from Eminem, Jack White, Travis Scott, and Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Governors Ball 2018 also boasts a lineup of 65+ artists including Halsey, N.E.R.D., Khalid, Chvrches, The Gaslight Anthem (Performing The ‘59 Sound), Post Malone, Silk City (Diplo + Mark Ronson), and many more!

The Weather Report: Imani Givertz

Back in October, our team collectively decided to share our voices in honor of World Mental Health Day. While some people struggle silently, we wanted to open a conversation on mental health in a way that was comfortable and free of judgement. Months later, I asked why couldn’t we continue that conversation? What was once seen as something to be fearful of discussing has turned into a relatable topic that has no boundaries. Our journeys may all be different, but they’re also similar in ways that we wouldn’t imagine.

While attending Launch Music Conference and Festival in Lancaster, PA roughly a month ago, I was surrounded by panels and discussions with industry professionals, musicians, and friends on their journeys with mental health. It sparked something in me that wanted to find a way that would allow having these types of conversations comfortably. During a chat with a talented friend of mine, Imani Givertz, a question came up: if you were the sky, what kind of day would you be? It’s a question that seems simple at first glance, but actually allows for a dialogue that may be difficult to openly talk about. There are plenty of questions to be asked in an interview, but very rarely is someone asked how they are truly feeling. Using this question that Imani brought up, we decided to launch a new column called The Weather Report that will allow those struggling with mental health to talk about how they’re feeling in a genuine and authentic way.

I thought the best person to kick off The Weather Report would be the inspiration behind the column, Imani, a photographer, social media manager, friend, and avid tea-drinker. Working in the music industry for about 8 years, Imani has had the opportunity to tell artists’ stories through photos and writing for publications including Cliche’ Magazine. She has a drive for being an advocate for those that struggle with mental health and to be a friend that walks with people through their mental health journey as she continues to walk through hers. You can read Imani’s Weather Report below.

Vans Warped Tour Announces Final Lineup

Just a few days ago, the final lineup for the 2018 Vans Warped Tour presented by Journeys was revealed in a video from the festival, which can be found below. The final cross-country run will feature acts who have frequently played Warped Tour over the last 24 years as well as up-and-coming acts. Set to play are bands including Simple Plan, 3OH!3, Mayday Parade, The Maine, We The Kings, Reel Big Fish, Underoath, Grayscale, Tonight Alive, and Real Friends, among others.

THE FINAL VANS WARPED TOUR LINEUP
ℹ️ https://t.co/0SrLVv7yyq
🎫 collector ticket on sale now
🎟️ regular tickets on sale March 8th
🎙️ additional special guests TBA#vanswarpedtour #warpedtour #foreverwarped pic.twitter.com/tGhKvbkwiD

— Vans Warped Tour (@VansWarpedTour) March 1, 2018

Kicking off on June 21st in Pomona, CA and wrapping on August 5th in West Palm Beach, FL, the tour will feature newly named stages such as Mutant Red Dawn and Mutant White Lightning which will showcase the best in heavy and hardcore music. Attendees will also be introduced to the FEND Movement (Full Energy, No Drugs), launched in partnership with the Preventum Initiative, which aims to empower young people to make a stand against opiods. Other non-profits and educational workshops at the festival will include A Voice For The Innocent, American Red Cross, Hope For The Day, and To Write Love on Her Arms, to name a few.

“With more non-profits coming out there will be more options for our audience to hopefully get involved before, during, and after the tour. I am hoping that this last year encourages non-profits to partner with bands and for bands to partner with non-profits on their own events and tours once this summer is over.” – Sierra Lyman.

General admission tickets will be on sale March 8th. Early bird tickets and super fan bundles are on sale now. The first 500 tickets sold for each show will be the lowest price and include a digital download of the Official Vans Warped Tour 50-song compilation.

More information can be found at www.vanswarpedtour.com.

Flashback February: STACEY

Back in September, I caught up with STACEY for one of the most stunning sessions I’ve done yet. With the sun setting in New York City, we were treated to a live version of “It’ll Be Alright,” which you can see below. The session also included performances of “Daydreaming” and “First Move.”