Tag: preview

Seven Bands To See At Boston Calling: #2, Brand New

With Boston Calling exactly a week away, we’ve decided to make a list of seven bands you do not want to miss. Whether they’re a headliner or an opener, whether they’re hip-hop, dance, rock & roll, or something somewhere in the middle, there are a handful of sets that you’re definitely going to want to pencil into your schedule.

On our list so far: #7. Magic Man/The Box Tiger, #6. Bastille, #5. Jack Johnson, #4. Tegan & Sara, #3. Frank Turner and the Sleeping Souls

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Today we talk about our #2 pick – Brand New!

One of the most beloved, discussed, and enigmatic acts around, Brand New have been leading the pack for nearly a decade and a half. As a group that has earned a following that borders on crazed (just ask anyone who tried getting tickets to their shows back in December or those who are already awaiting a Deja Entendu vinyl preorder), their set this weekend has potential to be massive. Could there be mention of that ever-elusive fifth album that has always been “in the works?” Will it be another full-album setlist (and if so, what if it’s Daisy from start to finish? Will the ungrateful fans flood the message boards again?)

There are a lot of questions that won’t get answered until the band takes the stage, but we can be certain of this – the fact that Brand New are playing Boston Calling is a pretty big deal. There have been fans, myself included, who have waited a while for this band to start consistently doing things again, and this weekend marks the start of a pretty substantial touring schedule that runs through the end of summer. This last winter, scalpers were selling tickets for upwards of $250 (I know, I know – that’s disgusting) for the band’s club shows. That being said, having Brand New sharing a stage with a handful of other amazing artists this weekend is just icing on the cake.

For fans of: Alkaline Trio, Saves the Day, Say Anything
For a taste, check out: “Jesus,” “The Boy Who Blocked His Own Shot,” “Seventy Times 7”
When you can see them: Sunday, 8:15 PM

50 Acts You Won’t Want To Miss At SXSW (Part 5)

 

Since none of us here at Lucy Out Loud will be able to attend SXSW this year, we’ve put together a list of 50 acts(in no particular order) we think those of you that are attending shouldn’t miss! 

To check out our fifth and final installment (acts 41-50), click “Read More”!

*Note: some acts we’ve included are performing at South By So What?! and not South By South West. However, since the festival takes place during the week of South By Southwest, we’ve decided to still include them in our list!

Part 5 (Acts 41-50). Check out Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4

  1. The Tontons
    Any band named after something Star Wars related is automatically a favorite in my book. The Tontons bring a psychedelic rock sound that we’ve previously referred to as a perfect mix of Lauren Hill, Under the Influence of Giants, plus a dash of Jimi Hendrix. The band recently released their sophomore album and after 3 years of touring (over 300 shows!!), The Tontons are definitely making a name for themselves. 
    Where to catch The Tontons: 3.12 – Big PictureMedia Showcase @ The Thirsty Nickel; 3.15- Dirty Dog Bar

  2. Lime Cordiale
    It feels as if surf-rock is alive and well when you listen to Lime Cordiale. With a mixture of smooth vocals and even smoother instrumentals, their infectious sound is unmatched by anybody else today. 
    Where to catch Lime Cordiale: 3.12 – 1:10pm – Big Picture Media Showcase @ Thirsty Nickel; 3.13 – 5:20pm – Sound Gallery @ B.D. Riley’s Pub; 3.13 – 9pm – Chugg Music Showcase @ TenOak; 3.15 – 12:15pm – The Aussie BBQ @ Maggie Mae’s; 3.15 – 9pm – Planetary Group Party @ Maggie Mae’s

  3. The Devil Wears Prada
    The guys of The Devil Wears Prada have been near the front of the pack for years. Amidst a constant cycle of writing, recording, and touring, the Ohio five-piece have always been able to please. As the headliners for this year’s Take Action! Tour, TDWP are going to have a very busy spring, but I don’t foresee anyone complaining. 
    Where to catch The Devil Wears Prada: 3.16 – South By So What?! @ Quiktrip Park

  4. Fritz Montana
    With a stellar blend of blues and indie, this Californian trio has shared the stage with the likes of Kings of Leon, Arctic Monkeys, AFI, and a handful of others, taking each opportunity to spread their massive sound to as much of an audience as possible. 
    Where to catch Fritz Montana: 3.11 – 8pm @ Shiner’s Saloon; 3.12 – 11pm @ Bourbon Girl; 3.13 – 2:15pm @ Lot323; 3.13 – 4pm @ Chuggin’ Monkey; 3.13 – 6:30pm @ Texas Rockfest

  5. Quiet Company
    This band formed back in 2005 and have spent the past few years developing a sound that is truly their own and really making a name for themselves. You may have even heard a song of theirs featured on Keeping Up With The Kardashians, Real World New Orleans, Royal Pains or Sims 3: Showtime. The band is currently in the process of recording their 4th album!
    Where to catch Quiet Company: 3.11 – 11:30pm – SXSW Showcase @ The Main II; 3.14 – 1:45pm – Big Picture Media Showcase @ The Blind Pig Rooftop; 3.14 – 4:30pm – Roky Erickson’s Ice Cream Social @ Threadgills; 3.15 – 1am – Official SXSW Showcase @ SOHO Lounge

  6. Bring Me the Horizon
    Whether you’ve enjoyed them from the start, or it took a few albums before they roped you in, or even if you aren’t a fan, Bring Me the Horizon are indisputably great live. Oli Sykes’ command of the stage is mesmerizing, and they continue to get better.
    Where to catch Bring Me The Horizon: 3.15 – South By So What?! @ Quiktrip Park

  7. Vinyl Thief
    This Tennessee electro-rock quartet recently released their EP, Stop Motion, last month – and we’ve been addicted since. The EP encourages listeners to live their lives to the fullest without regrets, something that most people should live up to. At last years SXSW, the band stuffed their gear onto a tiny stage and according to Beautiful Buzz, “proceeded to slay that room to teeny tiny pieces.” If you’re catching them at a showcase this year…prepare yourselves.
    Where to catch Vinyl Thief: 3.13 – 4pm – Landshark Showcase @ Bayou Lounge; 3.14 – 2:55pm – Big Picture Media Showcase @ Blind Pig Rooftop; 3.15 – 8pm @ BD Riley’s

  8. The Grahams
    The Grahams recently released the deluxe edition of their album Riverman’s Daughter on February 4th. The country/folk duo will be on tour until mid-May showcasing their soulful music.
    Where to catch The Grahams: 3.12 – 3pm – Midcoast Takeover @ Shangri La; 3.12 – 8pm – Sony Music Showcase @ The Market

  9. Carbon Tigers
    Last year was a rocky one for the Carbon Tigers who had their equipment, merchandise and van stolen. But the best part of that mess is that they crowd funded over $12,000 to purchase new gear – they have awesome fans. Admit it. Recently featured on Zimbio, Guitar World, NYLON, and NYLON Guys, this indie-rock band is one we can only expect to see make huge waves.
    Where to catch Carbon Tigers: 3.12 – 12:35pm – Big Picture Media Showcase @ Thirsty Nickel; 3.12 – 1am – The Nekkid Armadilla Presents @ Lucky Lounge; 3.13 – 1:30pm – AEMMP Records Presents @ Bat Bar; 3.13 – 9pm – Audiotree SXSW Showcase @ Licha’s Cantina; 3.15 – 2pm – RedGorilla Music Fest Showcase @ Thirsty Nickel

  10. The Lonely Biscuits
    After winning mtvU’s 2013 “College Artist of the Year” award, The Lonely Biscuits have proved that full-time students can still be kickass musicians. They kicked off 2014 with a new music video and will be performing a ton of shows this year – so make sure you find yourself at one of them!
    Where to catch The Lonely Biscuits: 3.12 – 11pm – BMI Showcase @ Bar 96; 3.14 – 1:10pm – Big Picture Media Showcase @ The Blind Pig Rooftop

50 Acts You Won’t Want To Miss At SXSW (Part 3)

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Since none of us here at Lucy Out Loud will be able to attend SXSW this year, we’ve put together a list of 50 acts(in no particular order) we think those of you that are attending shouldn’t miss! 

To check out our third installment (acts 21-30), click “Read More”!

*Note: some acts we’ve included are performing at South By So What?! and not South By South West. However, since the festival takes place during the week of South By Southwest, we’ve decided to still include them in our list!

Part 3 (Acts 21-30). Check out Part 1 | Part 2

  1. Night Riots
    This band has achieved amazing success over the past four years including being dubbed “one of the top 16 unsigned bands in North America” by Rolling Stone Magazine and “one of the most critically overlooked bands (of 2012)” by MTV Buzzworthy. Their last EP had fans and critics buzzing as the EP displayed a new confidence from the band. We’ve seen Night Riot progress a lot since 2010 and we can only expect even more success this year!
    Where to catch Night Riots: 3.14 – 3:30pm – Big Picture Media Showcase @ Blind Pig Rooftop; 3.15 – 8pm – Official SXSW Showcase @ Buffalo Billiards

  2. Lost in Los Angeles
    This “dream-induced indie pop” band uses their music as a way to explore their dreams and share their stories with their listeners. The LA-based trio are planning on following up their SXSW performances with a new single and a full length album to be released this spring!
    Where to catch Lost in Los Angeles: 3.12 – 3:20pm @ The Shiner Saloon; 3.13 – 10pm – Heart of Texas Rockfest @ Main Outdoor Stage; 3.14 – 12pm – Big Picture Media Showcase – The Blind Pig Rooftop; 3.14 – 10pm @ Blue Moon

  3. We Came As Romans
    While they may be third-billed on their current tour with Asking Alexandria and August Burns Red, that doesn’t mean We Came as Romans don’t know how to take full control over a crowd from onstage. Expect them to treat this set as a headliner. 
    Where to catch We Came As Romans: 3.14 – South By So What?! @ Quiktrip Park

  4. Two Cow Garage
    These Ohio natives released their last album, The Death of the Self Preservation Society, back in September and have been doing nothing but touring ever since! In total, the band has ranked up nearly 100 tour dates in the US and UK, quite impressive for any band to accomplish in six months. With a great raw rock sound, this is a band you seriously don’t want to miss.
    Where to catch Two Cow Garage: 3.12 – 6pm – Midcoast Takeover @ Shangri La; 3.13 – 10pm @ Soho Lounge; 3.14 – 5:45pm – Midcoast Takeover @ Shangri La; 1am @ Headhunters

  5. Mindless Self Indulgence
    It’s tough to tell you what to expect from Mindless Self Indulgence. Because if there’s one safe bet to make, you can be sure that MSI will be unpredictable. But, with this craziness comes unmatchable energy and a performance that is seriously enjoyable.
    Where to catch Mindless Self Indulgence: 3.15 – South By So What?! @ Quiktrip Park

  6. For The Foxes
    From the first time I [Lucy] saw these guys back in 2009, I knew that For The Foxes were one to keep my eye on. After signing to Hopeless Records back in 2011, the band has done nothing but create a giant buzz around them. Their indie-infused, ‘80s influenced sound is one that is truly unique and makes them one of our must see bands at SXSW!
    Where to catch For The Foxes: 3.12 – Between 12pm to 11pm – The FREE All Day Super Awesome Fun Time Party @ The Aquarium; 3.14 – Between 12pm to 6pm – Charlie Says “Fest!” @ 2326 E Cesar Chavez St

  7. Alesana
    There’s been a bit of a gap since the last time we heard from Alesana. And it hasn’t gone unnoticed. Their identifiable dual vocalled sound, backed by cinematic lyrics and harsh instrumentals, translate greatly to their live show. So, we hope that the time they’ve spent away, focusing on writing and recording and such, magnifies this even further.
    Where to catch Alesana: 3.15 – South By So What?! @ Quiktrip Park

  8. NGHBRS
    One of the best, most refreshing bands that we’ve been introduced to recently, NGHBRS spent months tucked away in an old mansion to record their debut album. Now, with a stellar sound and a brilliant album in-tow, they’ve returned to society and are making one hell of an impression!
    Where to catch NGHBRS: 3.11 – 5pm – Third String Productions Showcase @ The Aquarium 3.12 – 5pm – Red Gorilla Showcase @ Bourbon Girl; 3.13 – 5:25pm – Set.FM Showcase @ Hyde Park Bar and Grill; 3.14 – 4:40pm – Big Picture Media Showcase @ Blind Pig Rooftop

  9. Bad Veins
    Indie pop duo Bad Veins gained recognition when they won the Target Music Maker Award at the Tribeca Film Festival in 2008. Even though their last album was released back in 2012, the band is sure to be one of the buzz bands of this year! 
    Where to catch Bad Veins: 3.12 – 1am – SXSW Official Showcase @ Quantum Lounge; 3.14 – 1:40pm – Flowerbooking Showcase @ Cheer Up Charlies

  10. Ringo Deathstarr
    Ringo Deathstarr has had great success in Japan with their “shoegaze” sound similar to My Blood Valentine. The band will be releasing a limited pressing of their EP (previously only available in Japan) on March 25th. Ringo Deathstarr is spending the next few weeks touring in the US and will be playing three showcases at SXSW – so get your asses to at least one of them!
    Where to catch Ringo Deathstarr: 3.13 – 5:45pm – Gueros Frenchie Smith Records; 3.14 – 4:45pm – Exploding in Sound Party @ Hole in the Wall; 10:15pm @ Swan Dive Patio

50 Acts You Won’t Want To Miss At SXSW (Part 2)

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Since none of us here at Lucy Out Loud will be able to attend SXSW this year, we’ve put together a list of 50 acts(in no particular order) we think those of you that are attending shouldn’t miss! 

To check out our second installment (acts 11-20), click “Read More”!

*Note: some acts we’ve included are performing at South By So What?! and not South By South West. However, since the festival takes place during the week of South By Southwest, we’ve decided to still include them in our list!

Part 2 (Acts 11-20). Check out Part 1 here!

  1. Bear Hands
    Riding on the coattails of their newest album, Distraction, this Brooklyn quartet has a very busy couple of weeks ahead of them. With an east coast spring tour, including half a dozen shows at SXSW, there are plenty of chances to hear these guys do something special. 
    Where to catch Bear Hands:3.12 – 1am – KCRW’s Showcase @ Haven

  2. Sol Cat
    Self-described as “psychedelic groove-rock,” the Nashville group is as interesting as their music is intoxicating. This is a band that will truly surprise you!
    Where to catch Sol Cat: 3.12 – 2:20pm – Big Picture Media Showcase @ Thirsty Nickel; 3.14 – 2pm – RedGorilla Showcase @ HandleBar Austin; 3.14 – 8pm – Audiotree Showcase @ Licha’s Cantina; 3.15 – 7pm – The Future of Music Showcase @ Shiner Saloon

  3. The Ghost Inside
    There’s something truly special about watching Jonathan Vigil and The Ghost Inside. His performances are passionate and raw, purely emotive from the first note to the last. They’re a band that you should take advantage of every opportunity at seeing.
    Where to catch The Ghost Inside: 3.16 – South By So What?! @ Quiktrip Park

  4. Emily Wolfe
    With the ability to produce either something eerily ambient or hauntingly acoustic, Austin’s Emily Wolfe is a wild card double-threat. She received national praise for her 2013 releases Mechanical Hands and Night & Day, so a chance to see her onstage in her own stomping grounds is one to capitalize on.
    Where to catch Emily Wolfe: 3.11 – 1:30pm – Official SXSW Day Show @ Cheer Up Charlie’s; 3.12 – 6am – KGSR Live Broadcast from W Hotel Austin; 3.13 – 11pm – Official SXSW Showcase @ Esther’s Follies
  5. Lions Lions
    Keeping with local tradition, Boston’s Lions Lions have made a name for themselves throughout the last few years with their own brand of post-hardcore. They’ve made a habit of playing massive, often sold-out shows, and since everything is bigger in Texas, they’ll be sure to deliver there as well.
    Where to catch Lions Lions: 3.13 – Sumerian Records Showcase @ G Pen Annex; 3.15 – South By So What?! @ Quiktrip Park

  6. The 1975
    Unless you were living under a rock in 2013, then the 1975 were certainly on your radar at some point. And, even if you were living under a rock, you still probably heard a muffled version of “Chocolate” coming through the ground. They became one of the biggest new bands around, and they shouldn’t be missed.
    Where to catch The 1975: 3.14 – 1:30pm – Universal Music Group’s SXSW Day Party @ Palm Door on Sixth; 3.14 – 5pm – Crack In The Road & Disco Naivete @ Hype Hotel; 3.15 – 12pm – Waterloo Records @ 600 N. Lamar Blvd; 3.15 – 12:30am – SXSW Showcase @ Stubbs Amphitheater

  7. Bad Suns
    Like a handful of others featured at SXSW this year (including Echosmith, HAERTS, and London Grammar, to name a few), Bad Suns earned a spot as an iTunes Free Download earlier this year. And rightfully so. Their hook-filled indie-rock is something that no listener will be able to find themselves immune to.
    Where to catch Bad Suns: 3.12 – 11pm – Communion Records Showcase @ Blackheart

  8. Gentlemen Hall
    Boston has a history of producing some great artists, with Gentlemen Hall being no exception. Winners of MTV’s Breakout Band in ’09, Boston’s Best Act in ’11, and Billboard’s Battle of the Bands that same year, these six friends from Beantown have been on the receiving end of national buzz for a few years. 
    Where to catch Gentlemen Hall: 3.8 – 11:30pm – ROC Nation Party @ Raptor House; 3.10 – 6:30pm – Applauze Party @ Scoot Inn; 3.11 – 9pm – Official SXSW Showcase @ 512 Club; 3.13 – 12:40pm – IheartComix Kickoff Party @ Empire Control Room and Garage

  9. & 10.
    The Story So Far & Neck Deep
    I haven’t put a lot of emphasis here on the pop/punk side of the spectrum, so it would be useful to mention two of the most impressive newer acts around. Throughout their relatively-short careers up to this point, both bands have built extensive, loyal fanbases for themselves. There are sure to be plenty of kids watching when either of these two take the stage, so make sure you show up early.
    Where to catch The Story So Far: 3.13 – 4:55pm – Equal Vision Records and Pure Noise Records Showcase @ G Pen Annex; 3.16 – South By So What?! @ Quiktrip Park
    Where to catch Neck Deep: 3.16 – South By So What?! @ Quiktrip Park

50 Acts You Won’t Want To Miss At SXSW (Part 1)

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Since none of us here at Lucy Out Loud will be able to attend SXSW this year, we’ve put together a list of 50 acts(in no particular order) we think those of you that are attending shouldn’t miss! 

To check out our first installment (acts 1-10), click “Read More”!

*Note: some acts we’ve included are performing at South By So What?! and not South By South West. However, since the festival takes place during the week of South By Southwest, we’ve decided to still include them in our list!



Part 1 (Acts 1-10)

  1. iTCH
    Hip-hop seems to reach further now than it ever has. With this, and the ability to combine punk, pop, and electronic elements into his music, iTCH has been able to create a unique sound with a bit of English charm, adding his name to a short list of artists who have successfully been able to do so. 
    Where to catch iTCH: 3.13 – 9:30pm – SONY Showcase @ Hangar Lounge; 3.14 – 2:20pm – Big Picture Media Showcase @ Blind Pig Rooftop; 3.14 – 7:20pm – Audiotree Showcase @ Licha’s Cantina
  2. The Front Bottoms
    Thanks to Brian Sella’s unique voice (which shares a likeness to that of Say Anything’s Max Bemis or Andrew Jackson Jihad’s Sean Bonnette) and the duo’s clever lyrics, The Front Bottoms have built a huge following for themselves, proving that just because their music may not sound the prettiest, that doesn’t mean it isn’t pretty.
    Where to catch The Front Bottoms: 3.12 – 1:30pm – Run For Cover Records/Brixton Agency Showcase @ The Liberty; 3.12 – 6pm – The Chris Gethard Showcase @ Esther’s Follies; 3.12 – 11pm – BrooklynVegan Showcase @ Red 7 Patio; 3.14 – 8pm – APA Official Showcase @ The Palm Door; 3.14 – 1am – Bar None Showcase @ Valhalla
  3. Dangerkids
    Dangerkids are one of the few bands who have been able to successfully merge the worlds of electronic hardcore and rap/rock. Their debut album near the tail-end of 2013 was well-received and ambitious, and it wouldn’t be a shock to see them have a big year this year. 
    Where to catch Dangerkids: 3.16 – South By So What?! @ Quiktrip Park
  4. The Trash Pop Icons
    Fronted by sisters Nadia and Naomi Zep, the group has made a name for themselves throughout the San Francisco Bay area. The group’s debut album, A Way With Words, has a sound for any type of listener and an energy that is sure to translate to the stage.
    Where to catch The Trash Pop Icons: 3.12 – 12pm – Big Picture Media Showcase @ Thirsty Nickel; 3.12 – 4pm – Texas Rockfest @ Shiner’s Saloon, 3.13 – 7pm – Texas Rockfest @ Blue Moon; 3.14 – 7pm – Lot323’s Shocase @ the corner of Colorado & 4th
  5. Tiny Moving Parts
    If mewithoutYou and La Dispute conceived a child at a pop/punk show, the result would be Minnesota’s Tiny Moving Parts. Sharp, quick, and harsh, their music is personal and begs to be shouted.
    Where to catch Tiny Moving Parts: 3.14 – Between 12pm and 6pm – Charlie Says “Fest!” @ 2326 E Cesar Chavez St.
  6. letlive.
    We’ve heard a lot about letlive. over the last few years or so. And there’s a justified reason for why they’ve had the huge years that they’ve had. When the LA five-piece performs, they leave every ounce of them on their stage and with the fans. Whether you know this band or not, they’re one you’ll be disappointed for missing.
    Where to catch letlive.: 3.15 – South By So What?! @ Quiktrip Park
  7. From Indian Lakes
    Following a year that included their first headline tour, as well as an opening spot for The Main and Anberlin and recognition as one of Alternative Press’ 100 Bands You Need to Know in 2014, California’s From Indian Lakes are poised to have a great follow-up year.
    Where to catch From Indian Lakes: 3.11 – 7pm – To Write Love on Her Arms Texas UChapter @ Catalyst Teen Center; 3.13 – 12:05 – Equal Vision Records and Pure Noise Records Showcase @ G-Pen Annex; 3.13 – Between 12pm to 1am – The Audiotree Showcase @ Licha’s Cantina

  8. Ashley Allen
    Ashley Allen has all of the makings to be a standout pop star – hooks, looks, and plenty of personality. Her music is undeniably catchy and mainstream-ready, making her an artist to surely watch. 
    Where to catch Ashley Allen: 3.14 – 12pm – High School Nation Tour @ 1121 E. 7th St

  9. Lucius
    I(Eric) first saw Lucius perform at Boston Calling in September. They were one of the lower-billed openers, but they had everyone talking. Donned in identical black-and-white dresses, their staging was, and still is, as intriguing, charming, and distinctive as their music. 
    Where to catch Lucius: 3.12 – 8am – KUTX @ The Four Seasons; 3.12 – 5pm – The Paste Party @ Swan Dive; 3.12 – 10:45 – High Road Touring @ Cedar Street Courtyard; 3.13 – 6pm – Heartbreaker Banquet @ Willie Nelson’s “Luck, TX” Ranch; 3.13 – 12am – The Heart of Austin @ The Market; 3.14 – 6am – KGSR @ The W Hotel; 3.14 – 12pm – SXSW Radio Showcase @ The Convention Center; 3.14 – 4pm – The Tumblr House @ Clive Bar

  10. Chiodos
    Chiodos are one of the most tirelessly-working groups out there. After a couple of years that saw a revolving door or lineup changes, 2013 was a return to form. Now, with an extensive tour schedule and a new album on its way, they’re set to retake their territory in 2014.
    Where to catch Chiodos: 3.14 – South By So What?! @ Quiktrip Park 

NEW: A Preview of What’s To Come – Fearless Records(@fearlessrecords)

New music coming from Fearless Records in 2011, including:

The Aquabats “Hi-Five Soup!” – Jan 18
A Skylit Drive “Identity On Fire” – Feb 15
Go Radio “Lucky Street” – March 1
Sparks The Rescue “Worst Thing I’ve Been Cursed With” – April 2011
Breathe Carolina – Summer 2011

(Source: https://www.youtube.com/)