My Music Brisbane

Parklife Lineup Announced

2011-06-17T00:19:00.000+10:00

Ready for a day of drunken debauchery in Brisbane's Botanic Gardens? Well you're in luck! Parklife is here ladies and gents.

Death From Above 1979
Gossip
Lykke Li
Santigold
Duck Sauce
Katy B
The Naked & Famous
Crystal Fighters
Example
Digitalism
Adrian Lux
The Streets
Simian Mobile Disco
Magnetic Man
Nero
SebastiAn
Diplo
Mstrkrft
Sebastien Tellier
Little Dragon
Gold Fields
Mylo
Wolfgang Gartner
Joker & MC Nomad
Feed Me
Tensnake
Kimbra
The Aston Shuffle
Flux Pavilion
Yacht Club DJs
Harvard Bass

Brisbane Acts:
Charlie Hustle - Danny T - Ember - Knickers - Midnight Tango - Mitzi - Noy - Pedestrian - Pete Smith - Pigeon - Profesa - Rock, Pop and Ju - Sangers & Ra - Silver Sneakers - Stretch - Surecut Kids - Tigermoth - Tim Fuchs - Uberhammer - Van Miert

Secret Rituals... Almost Here

2011-06-12T16:49:00.000+10:00

The Grates, one of the most successful Brisbane band's of recent times are set to release their third album, 'Secret Rituals' on June 17; just a few days away now.

The band have released a video for new track 'Turn Me On' which you can listen to below and if you're after another taste of what's to come head over to http://www.thegrates.com where you can listen to 'Borrowed Skin', another song taken from the new album.

Ball Park Music - Rich People Are Stupid

2011-06-12T16:14:00.000+10:00

Local music scene darlings Ball Park Music have released another clip, this time putting their disdain for the rich in visual form. Also moustaches.

Tinian's Boy Teaser

2011-06-12T16:04:00.000+10:00

Popular local act Tinian's Boy have followed on from their first film clip 'The Sea Orchids' with a teaser of their next track to get the video treatment, 'Animal'. Hit the triangle to get a taste.

alibrandi - Lions May Fall

2011-06-12T15:56:00.000+10:00

Check out the video of 'Lions May Fall' from Brisbane rock band alibrandi's debut EP 'The Emergency'.

Video: Last Dinosaurs - Time & Place

2011-03-25T21:46:00.000+10:00

It's a little late but if you haven't seen it already Brisbane lads Last Dinosaurs have video out for their latest single "Time & Place"

Around the World - Pujol

2011-03-25T20:47:00.000+10:00

Straight outta Nashville Pujol aren't the atypical music product of their region. Instead of embracing Country like so many Nashville residents the band are a punk-rock outfit with a gritty garage-band sound.

Fronted by Daniel Pujol, a staple of the Nashville music scene since 2006, the band have built a loyal local following and even attracted the attention of one Jack White, leading to the band releasing material on Third Man Records.

Their debut album "X File on Main Street" is due for release later this year but until then check out "Black Rabbit" & "Butterflyknife" below.

Brisbane Sounds 2011 Compilation

2011-03-25T17:51:00.001+10:00

The good folks over at Brisbane Sounds have put out the call for submissions for their 2011 Brisbane Sounds Compilation CD. If you're from a local band you'll want to get on to that. Check out http://brisbanesounds.com/brisbane-sounds-2011-submissions-now-open/ for all the details.

An Horse - New Album Almost Here

2011-03-25T17:43:00.001+10:00

Brisbane duo An Horse announced their second album some time ago and that time is now almost upon us. April 1 people. Here's an album teaser for "Walls" their follow up effort to "Rearrange Beds"

Video Assault: Laneous & The Family Yah

2011-03-25T17:34:00.000+10:00

Laneous & The Family Yah have had a busy start to 2011, releasing an EP, "Scissors" and putting out two videos in support of singles "Oh She" and "Haunting (Me)". Turn your eyes downward for a look.

Steve Grady - Could've Been Worse

2011-03-25T17:26:00.001+10:00

Owner of one of the more anticipated albums originating from Brisbane in 2011 Steve Grady looks like having a busy year.

Having released his debut album "Youth Skin" Steve is set for a huge 50 date tour of regional Australia with fellow Brisbane songster Dan Parsons. Here are the two aforementioned bards performing "Could've Been Worse" in a video shot at Lake Tyres State Park.

Album Teaser From The Blackwater Fever

2011-03-25T17:18:00.000+10:00

Brisbane's own seething blues rock duo The Blackwater Fever are scheduled to release their new album "In Stereo" on May 12th and have released a little teaser for all those curious enough to click the play button.

Bonfire Nights - Own Worst Enemy

2011-03-25T17:06:00.000+10:00

Local outfit Bonfire Nights recently took the time to film a video for "Own Worst Enemy" a track off their 2010 debut EP.

The Good Ship - Bury Me

2011-03-25T16:58:00.000+10:00

Brisbane's merriest crew The Good Ship have a video out for their track "Bury Me" off 2010 debut album "Avast! Wretched Sea".

The Kills Confirmed For Splendour in the Grass

2011-03-25T16:42:00.000+10:00

Good news abounds for Australian based fans of The Kills in 2011. Along with a new album scheduled for release, Alison Mosshart confirmed in an interview with Pedestrian that "We'll be down later this year for Splendour in the Grass"

Big Day Out Lineup Announcement

2010-09-28T00:09:00.001+10:00

Well it's out ladies and gents, BDO first announcement:

Tool
Rammstein
Iggy And The Stooges
Bloody Beetroots Death Crew 77
Lupe Fiasco
Grinderman
Primal Scream Screamadelica Live
Deftones
The Black Keys
Andrew W.K
The Jim Jones Revue
Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros
M.I.A
LCD Soundsystem
Booka Shade
Die Antwoord
Vitalic
CSS
Plan B
Ratatat
Crystal Castles ( East Coast only )
John Butler Trio
Wolfmother
Airbourne
Birds Of Tokyo
Kids Of 88
The Naked & Famous

Australia only:

Angus & Julia Stone
Dead Letter Circus
Children Collide
Operator Please
Bliss N Eso
Gyroscope
Pnau
Kid Kenobi & Mc Shureshock
Sampology
Blue King Brown
Will Styles
Little Red
Gypsy And The Cat
Lowrider

New Zealand only:

Die! Die! Die!
Bulletproof
I Am Giant
Six 60
Street Chant
Shihad playing The General Electric Live

Dax Riggs - Say Goodnight to the World

2010-09-16T02:40:00.002+10:00

This album's good. Pretty darn good. So it's a little 'all over the place' and each song has its own mood and vibe but that's fine, they're strung together by a sound that's intense, sultry, mellow and dirty as fuck. Still here? Now couple that with the fact that Riggs can sing. Really sing. Like a bird. Like an angel. A vengeful Old Testament angel.

Dax Riggs - Apocalyptic bard?

Video for Black Mountain - The Hair Song

2010-09-16T01:31:00.001+10:00

Canadian rockers Black Mountain have released a video 'The Hair Song', one of the better tracks from their sadly disappointing 2010 album 'Wilderness Hearts'.

And if you're a desperately obsessed Black Mountain fan (or just like finding out the names of the people who hold the cameras) there's even a behind-the-scenes vid.

The Black Angels - Phosphene Dream

2010-09-14T01:12:00.001+10:00

Want to drift away on a haze of fuzzy guitars, organs and handclaps? Well today you can friends, The Black Angels new album 'Phosphene Dreams' gets officially released! 14th of September and all that. The dates match up, check 'em if you have to. Listen to 'Telephone' from said album below.

New Sounds - Herzog

2010-09-14T00:47:00.000+10:00

Herzog are a band hailing from the US whom have a song with a title that should resonate with you if you had the misfortune of encountering, 'Paul Blart: Mall Cop' on a screen of some sort over the past couple of years.

Anyhow, they're a rock band, a slacker rock band perhaps, listening to their debut album 'Search' you can hear snippets of the likes of Pavement, Built to Spill and Weezer. There's a bit more going on than straight up slacker rock, some of the songs taking on a decided pyschedelic edge but you'll need to listen to more of their material than just 'Paul Blart and the Death of Art' to pick that up.

Tara Simmons - I Cannot Be Saved

2010-09-14T00:18:00.001+10:00

Brisbane singer-songwriter Tara Simmons released a video for her track 'I Cannot Be Saved' last week. Get on it.

Busy Fingers

2010-09-14T00:12:00.002+10:00

The drummer from Brisbane band, The Bloodpoets had his snare stolen from his car in the past 24 hours after playing at Rics yesterday. It's a very distinctive wood grain green Soprano one, in a silver hard case covered in stickers (including a Bloodpoets one). If you or anyone you know comes across it let us know ASAP, it's probably the only one like it in Brisbane. Thanks.

And Another Video - Hungry Kids of Hungary

2010-08-24T01:56:00.000+10:00

So it came out two months ago. So you've already seen it. Quieten down and watch it again. Brisbane's invading London... poorly prepared but all the same it's Hungry Kids of Hungary's debut single 'Wristwatch' from their album 'Escapades'.

The Medics - Her Song

2010-08-24T01:33:00.000+10:00

Cairns based indie band The Medics have built up a solid following in Brisbane over the recent past along with having played support act to an impressive assortment of bands including The Panics, The Grates, and Faker. They've recently put together a clip for "Her Song", a track that earlier garnered them attention from Triple J.

The Boat People - Under the Ocean

2010-08-24T01:24:00.000+10:00

Brizzie indie pop maestros The Boat People released their third album 'Dear Darkly' back on July 2 and a video for the track 'Under the Ocean' shot at The Spit out on the Gold Coast, shortly before that. If you haven't seen it yet check it out below.

Laneous & The Family Yah - "I Am Dog"

2010-08-23T00:22:00.001+10:00

Brisbane's West End favourites, Laneous & The Family Yah are gearing up to release album "Found Things" their follow up album to last year's "St Ill Regal". It's not set to be out until September so you won't be able to hear it all until then but for until that time arrives there is new single "I Am Dog" complete with humorous video and all.

13 Questions with Villains of Wilhelm

2010-08-22T23:29:00.000+10:00

Danny from Brisbane outfit, Villains of Wilhelm took some time away from winning Q Song awards and admiring the fine quality of pigeons that Melbourne has to offer to answer some pointless questions.

1. Who are you heroes?
Anyone with a crack pipe on COPS!
2. The first band you saw live?
Umm it was Warped Tour in Coffs Harbour so it was a cultural eye opener that ended with a massive beat down in the Pennywise mosh pit.
3. What's your favourite Brisbane music venue?
We like the Troubabour to chill and I'd say the nights those crazy kids over FANS put on are messy.
4. What's the best (or dumbest) thing that's been said to you at/after a show?
"Oh my god it smells like fanny" Don't know where we'll see that chick again but she should know she has given us many moments.
5. Why 'Villains of Wilhelm' as your band name?
Have you ever met a guy named Wilhelm?
6. What makes you cringe?
When your mother tells your friends how cool she thinks you are.
7. Describe the raddest heist you've ever pulled off. What'd you steal?
Ummm we are pretty good with the not stealing thing... we did drink Tex Perkins' beer once... then he nearly punched me in the face, as a result of a separate matter. Also got 2 'free' meals at Grill'd last week...
8. What bands should people reading this be listening to?
Girls, The Oh Sees, The Velvet Underground, Nuggets, Wavves, Step-Panther and anything your crazy uncle listens to can't be that bad...
9. If the members of Villains of Wilhelm were to adopt stage names what would they be?
If? Our actual names are Rupert, Lloyd, Chip and... Jonny.
10. You are guilty of shameful things. What are these BAAAAD things?
2 of the lads urinated at the side of the Metro Stage and got booted by our manager... Molly Meldrum was there but not watching the urination. Other than that its usually Tea and Tim Tams.
11. You can choose one musician, alive or dead, to perform with Villains of Wilhelm for one night only. Who do you choose?
The Travelling Wilbury's
12. If someone wrote a biography for Villains of Wilhelm what would the title be?
"It's a Picture Book"
13. What can we expect from Villains of Wilhelm in the near future?
We've just put out another recording and finished a tour for it so we are gonna be heading back to do a film clip and get recording again. Then tour in Oct/Nov with some cool cats from Melbourne and Sydney.

Villains of Wilhelm - Myspace
Villains of Wilhelm - Facebook

MMB Presents - The Black Diamonds

2010-08-22T22:31:00.000+10:00

Hailing from the coal mining town of Lithgow in the Blue Mountains district of New South Wales, The Black Diamonds were one of the most enduring Australian Rock & Roll bands of their era. When you include their later incarnation as Tymepiece, the group managed to have a foot in three decades, the 1950s, 1960s and 1970s.

But sadly, during their tenure as the Black Diamonds they only got to release two singles, a little over ten minutes running time for nearly a decade of slog. Still, what the Black Diamonds’ discography lacks in weight it more than makes up for in class. From the lush, dynamic power-pop of "Not This Time" and "See The Way" to the dreamy "Outside Looking In", the Black Diamonds knew how to play. However it's for their seething fuzz masterpiece "I Want, Need, Love You" for which the Black Diamonds should be remembered. And why not? I Want, Need, Love You is pretty close to as good as it gets.

Running Guns - The Count; the Beat

2010-08-11T01:22:00.000+10:00

Brisbane's resident mod soul punk spirits Running Guns have put up a taste of their new album on their myspace in the form of new song 'The Count; the Beat', head on over and check it out.

http://www.myspace.com/runninguns

Hanni El Khatib - You Rascal You & Dead Wrong

2010-08-11T01:10:00.000+10:00

Californian Hanni El Khatib is a multi-instrumentalist, singer, songwriter and producer who has a sound that's bluesy garage-rock soul meets malt shop music. He released a debut 7" last month and now has videos up for both You Rascal You and Dead Wrong. Have a look/listen below.

Violent Soho - Muscle Junkie

2010-07-26T20:12:00.001+10:00

If you haven't caught it yet here's the video for 'Muscle Junkie' from arguably Brisbane's biggest band of the moment, Violent Soho. Highly recommended if you enjoy the heady combination of grunge, long hair and fat people.

Hellen Black Music Is Looking For Bands

2010-07-26T20:05:00.000+10:00

DORM FEVER @ CLUB 299

LIVE MUSIC STILL EXISTS @ CLUB 299! Wednesday nights are showcasing local UNI, Tafe, College bands. Bands that have yet to perform and/or be recognised, the chance to get on stage and show Brisbane who they are and what they are about! All genres, all styles are welcome. Some amazing bands have played this room over the many years of 299’s lengthy reputation, Wednesday night is for the underdog! Even better for all, its free entry! Contact info@hellenblack.com

J-Pan Fan Release Video for 'Rent'

2010-07-26T19:32:00.000+10:00

Brisbane's own J-Pan Fan have released a video for 'Rent' and it includes appearances from a host of other Brisbane artists: Ross Hope (Disco Nap), Tony McCall (Resin Dogs, Blonde on Blonde), Stewart Hill (Dead Letter Circus) Pete Bosworth & Chris Drage (Bang Bang Boss Kelly), Jack Bratt (Blonde on Blonde)

13 Questions with The Bell Divers

2010-07-05T02:39:00.003+10:00

Matthew Lobb, guitarist for Brisbane indie band 'The Bell Divers' occupied himself with 13 questions. Check out his answers below.

1. Who are your heroes?
We admire lots of stuff. Me personally, insofar as it filters into the band, I like Stephen Malkmus (Pavement). He has lots of cool guitar sounds, and obviously a really pronounced playing style too. I also like a lot of Lindsey Buckingham's guitar work. Barney Sumner, and Robert Smith too. And locally, I've always been a fan of both David and Dylan McCormack's guitar playing.
2. The first band you saw live?
The Cockroaches at Carrara Stadium one Australia Day in the late 1980s.
3. What's your favourite Brisbane music venue?
Bar Soma. They put on some good dance nights there. But a bad place to see bands.For that, the Troubadour.
4. What's the best (or dumbest) thing that's been said to you at/after a show?
To be honest it's usually just friends, so... Oh, it doesn't happen very often, but it's very tedious to be asked about equipment or amp settings.
5. Why 'The Bell Divers' as your band name?
It was the least worst option. It doesn't signify anything really, although Clinton said he liked it because it made him think of a faded old photograph of a guy who maybe once did something heroic; an eager organ donor or something.
6. What makes you cringe?
When someone makes coffee badly, and you can hear the milk screaming. And any close-minded cultural elitism is a bit hard to take.
7. Describe the raddest heist you've ever pulled off. What'd you steal?
I still can't really go there for what's left of dignity's sake! When I was 13 I used to pinch a lot of crap just for the little rush. By 14 I was reformed, and become a completely straight dork who wore tennis shoes everywhere, like a teenage Larry David but without the wit.
8. What bands should people reading this be listening to?
I'd recommend Seja's song 'I'll Get to You' maybe people know her already, she's from Brisbane. Her album 'We Have Secrets But Nobody Cares' is exceptional. The new Ariel Pink album, 'Before Today is amazing. As for old stuff, well, Kraftwerk are absolutely always worth a listen.
9. If the members of The Bell Divers were to adopt stage names what would they be?
Geez, I don't know. I've never liked stage names very much. My friend Jason thinks good ones up. He actually performs as Ricky Goldenstarr.
10. You are guilty of shameful things. What are these BAAAD things?
I let the lawn grow, and it really just keeps getting higher and wilder. A neighbour knocked on the door one day to see if we still lived here. I thought he was a dick for saying that, but in a way he's right, we should keep on top of garden maintenance or just leave. An immaculate lawn really is a bit of a status marker, and I do feel ashamed about ours.
11. You can choose one musician, alive or dead, to perform with The Bell Divers for one night only. Who do you choose?
It'd be great to hear Gene Clark perform. He was the original Byrds frontman, and made some great solo records. He died quite young at 46, had a heart attack, poor fella. A real legend, as any Mojo-reading bore will also tell you.
12. If someone wrote a biography for The Bell Divers what would the title be?
Probably something like 'Lost in Brisbane'. 'Notes from the Underground' is apt but a bit self-glorifying really besides being already taken. So definitely NOT 'Notes from the Underground' ok? Imagine a band bio on a group who only released one album and hardly ever played. It'd be awfully thin.
13. What can we expect from The Bell Divers in the near future?
A lot of local shows and a new record with a slightly different sound.

Download/Listen to The Bell Divers' Album - June July
The Bell Divers - Website
The Bell Divers - Triple J Unearthed

MMB Presents - Nobunny

2010-06-22T00:21:00.001+10:00

'Nobunny loves you... if you are five years old and a boy'

That's just one quote from a review of the 2008 Love Visions LP from Nobunny, a front man/rabbit created by US garage/punk musician Justin Champlin. Together with an array of backing artists Nobunny blends together the sounds of the Ramones, the Cramps and childlike power-pop, creating some seriously infectious bubblegum-punk.

Starting out in 2001 Nobunny has been performing across the US, slowly gaining a cult following thanks to their raucous live shows punctuated by bunny masks, kneepads, spastic dance moves, pink underwear and coats made of trash. Since then Nobunny has released a vinyl single "Give it to Me" on Hozac Records and a full-length LP called Love Visions on Bubbledumb Records in 2008. However it wasn't until Love Visions was re-released in 2009 that Nobunny began to receive significant attention. The album garnered wide spread praise from the music reviewers that bothered to get their hands on it,

"How does this 25-minutes of sick trash even exist?" - Buddyhead
"It was disgusting, totally disgusting, and more than a little creepy" - Paste Magazine
"If you like sweaty basements with your friends while drinking beer from the cheap 30 packs you all threw in on, then this could be your favourite album for the rest of the summer" - Racket Magazine
"Like a high school version of Rock & Roll High School" - Rolling Stone

From there Nobunny has gotten involved with Jack White's Third Man Records, playing an acoustic show that's to be released by the label, so hopefully new material will be on the way soon. Sadly though there's no immediate plans for any Australian shows.

13 Questions with Blame Ringo!

2010-06-20T20:49:00.000+10:00

Blame Ringo are Jessiah, Ross and Pete, they go about playing music around Brisbane and other places. Some more exciting, some less. They took some time out from blaming Ringo for their miserable, miserable lives to answer the 13 enquiries below.

1. Who are your heroes?
Dan Kelly and whoever invented Red Bull
2. The first band you saw live?
Frenzal Rhomb (Ross), Green Day (Pete), John Williamson (Jessiah)
3. What's your favourite Brisbane music venue?
The Troubadour
4. What's the best (or dumbest) things that's been said to you at/after a show?
Brendan Fevola told us he enjoyed our show. That was kind of weird
5. Why Blame Ringo! as your band name?
Long story...
[MMB Note - after careful, painstaking research it became clear that Blame Ringo decided upon their name as a constant reminder and motivation to fulfill a blood debt after their parents were mercilessly killed in a one off wrestling death match by Ringo Starr. Ever since they have been playing music and improving their wrestling skills in hopes of avenging their fallen loved ones. Visit their site (www.blameringo.com) for the cover up story and other revelations about Ringo's malevolent influence.]
6. What makes you cringe?
The Valley at 2am on a Sunday morning
7. Describe the raddest heist you've ever pulled off. What'd you steal?
Jessiah woke up one morning with a dozen letterboxes in his room. He has no idea how they got there.
8. What bands should people reading this be listening to?
Ball Park Music, Hungry Kids of Hungary, Richard In Your Mind
9. If the members of Blame Ringo were to adopt stage names what would they be?
Jizz Mopper (Jessiah), Pete Schnapps (Pete) and Ross (Ross)
10. You are guilty of shameful things. What are these BAAAD things?
Pete used to be in a punk band called 'F***ing C***s'
11. You can choose one musician, alive or dead, to perform with Blame Ringo for one night only. Who do you choose?
Billy Preston
12. If someone wrote a biography for Blame Ringo what would the title be?
Blame Ringo: Eat a Bag of It
13. What can we expect from Blame Ringo in the near future?
We have a new album out in September and we're off to the US in the new year

The Gin Club Release Video for 'Pennies'

2010-06-17T22:57:00.001+10:00

Brisbane favourites, The Gin Club have released a video for the song 'Pennies' of their new album Deathwish. They shot it in only 3 hours. I'm guessing shoot time was cut short because Antiques Roadshow was about to start because who wants to miss that?

Gig of the Week - DZ / Chicks Who Love Guns / Glass Towers @ Alhambra Lounge, Friday June 4

2010-06-03T23:28:00.002+10:00

It's Peny Lane's third birthday and there's a celebration of sorts being put on by FANS at Alhambra this Friday. The lineup is DZ headlining, with Chicks Who Love Guns and Glass Towers for support. Then there's some people who probably take DJ'ing too seriously on afterward. Oh and it's also the official Children Collide after party as well.

(www.penylane.com - some girls who go places and take photos of stuff whilst they're there. I'm not really sure. It could be about fashion)

DZ - The Mess Up - Website

Chicks Who Love Guns - Vomit on the Dancefloor - Website

Glass Towers - Castles - Website

The Spires to Release 'Curved Space' EP

2010-06-03T20:26:00.002+10:00

Funnily enough MMB got sent an album from a New York record label for a Californian band, neither being all that close to Brisbane, let alone Australia, but hey it's nice to feel noticed even if it does just involve being added to a mailing list.

The Spires are a three-piece dream pop band from Ventura, California and consist of Jason Bays (vocals/ guitar), Colleen Coffey (drums) and Catelyn Kindred (bass). Having formed in 2004 they have since gone on to release three LP's and half a dozen EP's up until their latest scheduled release of 'Curved Space' on July 13. Their previous work has earned them comparisons with the likes of The Velvet Underground, Belle & Sebastien, Robyn Hitchcock and even Brisbane's own, The Go-Betweens.

'Curved Space' appears to be a continuation from their previous work, a sound full of reverb, dreamy pop and melancholic lyrics. A video for the first single from the EP, 'Orange Yellow' is below and if you like what you hear that much the EP is reportedly due for release on July 13.

Dead Letter Circus' Video for 'Big'

2010-05-31T23:15:00.000+10:00

After releasing an EP, touring nationally and scoring spots on several festivals including Big Day Out and SXSW, Brisbane band Dead Letter Circus finally released their debut album. 'This Is The Warning' was released on May 14 and the first video from the album is out, check out 'Big' below.

Sounds of Brisbane - Mardi Lumsden & the Rising Seas

2010-05-28T01:40:00.001+10:00

Mardi Lumsden & The Rising Seas are a pop-folk band from our very own sunny(?) Brisbane town.

The five-piece group released their debut EP 'Going is Finding' back in 2007 earning themselves enthusiastic reviews and earning comparisons to the likes of Joni Mitchell. Since then there's been two east coast tours for Mardi and her friends and they've recently finished recorded their follow up EP, 'Wherever You Go, There You Are' with producer Magoo (Regurgitator, The Gin Club, Operator Please, Kate Miller-Heidke) at his Applewood studio.

As you may suspect Mardi Lumsden is the driving force behind the music, an alt-folk singer-songwriter her lilting voice provides a delightful base for the group's pop folk to build upon. Live, Lumsden has been described as "a sanguine and superb songbird. Her voice has a delightful, whimsical lilt, as do her lyrics, which are about intimate, urbane experiences of late twenty-somethings. Her songs would complement, as a soundtrack, any Nick Earls or Rebecca Sparrow book" (lifemusicmedia.com)

Of course as the name suggests Mardi isn't the only member of this band. The Rising Seas comprises of Andrew Penny (banjo, banjo-mandolin, piano, melodica, backing vocals), David Callanan (lead and slide guitar, glockenspiel, mandolin), Jane McEniery (double bass and bass) and Joachim Alfheim (drums).

The band is set to release their EP 'Wherever You Go, There You Are' and they're launching it as Queensland's Old Museum this Saturday, so have a look at the new video for 'Pieces of the Story below, and get on down there.

Mardi Lumsden & The Rising Seas - Website - Myspace - Triple J Unearthed

Interview with Departed Sounds

2010-05-28T00:31:00.005+10:00

There's a new record label down south in that place called Melbourne where trains freely roam the streets, and it's name is Departed Sounds. MMB interviewed the brains behind the operation with a series of intrepid inquiries. So settle down, get some snacks and embrace the scroll button on that mouse of yours cause it's a looong post.

What/Who is Departed Sounds?

Departed Sounds is a record label founded and run by myself, Andrew Keese, a Melbourne based singer/songwriter and my friend, Ashley Sambrooks, a Melbourne based publicist. Our stated aim is to bring the finest pop, rock, folk and noise to the world.

Was there one particular moment or experience that lead to you deciding to form your own label?

There was no pivotal, light from the heavens moment which drove us into forming the label. It was more like a long sequence of small events.

For me, it was the frustration of seeing great bands and artists not getting the recognition I felt they deserved. I was very much of the attitude of "safety in numbers" and the idea that if we could build something centred around shared ideals, it would be to everyone's benefit.

For Ash, I think it was much the same, though I also suspect he also had a life long dream of running a record label. Ash came from the publicity and promotion side of the business and it was obvious he had talent in that area. I guess he wanted to put that talent to good use and invest it into something he really believed in.

Ash was the one who went after the idea with determination, vigour and drive. I was a little reticent at first, being very cynical about the music industry and the treatment of artists in general. But over time, I started to absorb Ash's enthusiasm and once things started rolling, we both threw ourselves headlong into the task.

Departed Sounds professes to believe that 'technology is something to be harnessed rather than tamed'. What do you mean by that and how do you plan to turn that to your advantage?

That phrase, "something to be harnessed rather than tamed", is a coded reference to the behaviour exhibited by the music industry in response to the rise of illegal downloading.

Here was an entire industry that failed to see change coming, did not take advantage of change when it did come and then responded to change by harassing and bullying their own customer base with lawsuits, intimidation and threats.

The fact is that the way in which people discover and consume music has changed forever. Technology has been a significant enabler of that change. But rather than holding technology responsible for the inability to shift massive numbers of units in short periods of time, maybe the industry should be looking at producing small, balanced returns over a longer period of time.

A few weeks ago, we released Lindsay Phillips' debut album "Varning". About a week later, I found it on Rapidshare. The link to the Rapidshare file came from a forum in Spain. And without being particularly well versed in Spanish, I could glean that someone in the forum has discussed the album, then published it on Rapidshare for other in that forum to download. A couple of days after that discovery, we sold both vinyl and digital copies of "Varning" to buyers in Spain. So the fact that someone freely published the album didn't hurt us at all. Matter of fact, I suspect they did us a favour.

That's essentially what we mean by harnessing rather than taming. Labels need to work with, rather than against, current technology. Contrary to what the industry trumpets, I don't believe that sales are dropping as a direst result of downloading. They are dropping because people are getting more and more selective and niche oriented. And shutting down those who download content illegally is ridiculous and it is not a workable solution.

The workable solution is to make great albums at the lowest cost possible and then make those albums completely accessible, so that people don't have to procure them illegally in order to hear them. You then need to sell those albums at a price which is cheap enough the people won't bother to download them illegally.

Were you influenced by other label initiatives from elsewhere?

Any influence we might have had must have expressed itself sub-consciously, because I don't recall specifically discussing which label we wanted to be like, or base ourselves upon.

In retrospect, I think that's part of the reason we're so unique. We've built something based purely on our own feeling and ideas without reference to the past or present.

I do know that we watched Melbourne label 'Mistletone' with interest for some time. We were impressed by their ingenuity, their DIY attitude and consistent work ethic. But in terms of creating Departed Sounds, I think we wanted to stand completely apart from every other record label.

What kind of music are you looking to attract to your label? Is there a typical 'Departed Sounds' sound?

I don't think we have a specific type of music that we want to find or draw to the label.

Our attitude reminds me of what Terry Gilliam said about his film adaptation of the novel "Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas". To paraphrase, he said that art is like a flare that you launch into the sky. You let it burn up there and see who the light attracts.

I don't think there is a particular Departed Sounds "sound". I know that we're not really concerned with genre or style. An artist can work in any style they like, as long at they own it, if you know what I mean.

I do think there are a few key elements which link our artists lyrically and musically; soul, inventiveness, intelligence and individuality. But it's hard to say much more than that, because the beauty of music is that it is about aesthetics and emotions. It's about the things you can't really put into words.

If I had to summarise it, I'd say we deal in music that moves.

How has the Melbourne music community responded to your label?

With great interest, encouragement and excitement.

It's as if there was a collective feeling which we somehow managed to tap into and turn into something concrete and visible. In that way, it also feels as though Melbourne is part of the label. I think people feel directly connected to it. At least, I hope they do.

What current Departed Sounds acts are you most excited about?

All of them. We're genuinely excited about all of them.

What are your future hopes for the label?

Naturally, we'd like the label to be a success, for our artists and for ourselves. I don't think you should shy away from wanting things to succeed on some level, as long as that desire is not driven by avarice.

We'd also like to partner with other companies we respect and also expand our ideas into other areas of the industry apart from releasing records.

And, I suppose, we do harbour a secret yearning to take over the world. But you have to remain humble and realistic and take things one day at a time in this business.

And finally, to fit with the whole 'My Music Brisbane' thing, do you have a favourite Brisbane band of the moment?

I'll be perfectly honest and say that my knowledge of new Brisbane bands is limited. We're a bit parochial down here in Melbourne, you know. However, I was sent an album by a band called The Bell Divers a few months ago which I really enjoyed. Very gentle, reflective, off kilter stuff. Well written and very well delivered.

Having said that, if there are any bands in Brisbane who think we really should know about them, well, you know where to find us.

Departed Sounds - Website

13 Questions with Young Raptors

2010-05-27T21:31:00.002+10:00

Melbourne post-punkers Young Raptors filled out some questions. Check out the all important correspondence below.

1. Who are your heroes?
Anyone able to make a living doing what they love... and Yanni
2. The first band you saw live?
Jack: Tommy Emmanuel in like grade 3. My dad was super psyched!
3. What's your favourite Brisbane music venue?
James: The Troubadour, our friends band, Quebec said it was the beez neez
4. What's the best (or dumbest) thing that's been said to you at/after a show?
Jack: Not the dumbest, nor best thing ever said, but the first thing that comes to mind is, "What were those loud squeely noises? They hurt my ears!"
5. Why 'Young Raptors' as your band name?
James: Because The Dipoladocus' just doesn't have the same ring to it.
6. What makes you cringe?
James: Autotune.
Ben: fingernails screeching down a blackboard
7. Describe the raddest heist you've ever pulled off. What'd you steal?
Jack: Six Curly Whirlys & a chomp bar from 7/11
8. What bands should people reading this be listening to?
Deerhunter, Spoon, Bombay Bicycle Club and Absolute Boys
9. If the members of Young Raptors were to adopt stage names what would they be?
Lovetron5000, Orlando, FoxBox and Thompson
10. You are guilty of shameful things. What are these BAAAAD things?
Jack: Probably the six curly whirlys and chomp bar heist. Oh and that guy we killed. Kind of regret that...
11. You can choose one musician, alive or dead, to perform with Young Raptors for one night only. Who do you choose?
James: Seventies Bowie, from the Ziggy Stardust era.
12. If someone wrote a biography for Young Raptors what would the title be?
"The Raptor Nest - A Fable"
13. That can we expect from Young Raptors in the near future?
Hopefully record a 10" in the coming months and do an east coast tour closer to summer (if anyone up that way is keen to play with us, let us know!)

Young Raptors - Myspace
Young Raptors - Triple J Unearthed

New Sounds - Super Wild Horses

2010-05-20T22:53:00.002+10:00

Melbourne duo Super Wild Horses have garnered just a little attention lately after releasing their first single 'Golden Town' from their upcoming debut album 'Fifteen'. Given the production stylings (courtesy of Mike Young of Eddy Current Suppression Ring if you were wondering) you'd be tempted to compare them to Vivian Girls or Dum Dum Girls, but their sound is closer to Kim Deal, The Breeders and the girl groups of the 90's than any other buzz band of late.

'Fifteen' is due for release on July 23

The Black Keys release official video for 'Tighten Up'

2010-05-20T21:22:00.001+10:00

Blues duo The Black Keys have just released a new album 'Brothers' and strangely enough also have a video for one of their songs, 'Tighten Up'.

The Black Keys "Tighten Up"

The Black Keys | MySpace Music Videos

New Video from Ball Park Music

2010-05-20T21:10:00.001+10:00

Brisbane band Ball Park Music have released a video for 'iFly', the second single from from the 2010 EP release 'Conquer the Town, Easy as Cake'.

13 Questions with Running Guns

2010-05-17T21:32:00.005+10:00

Running Guns are Brisbane's own self proclaimed Mod Soul Punks. Band members Julien James, Jeremy Neale and Michael Fletcher took the time to become 13 Questions more soulful below.

1. Who are your heroes?
Julien: Weller, Lennon and Batman
2. The first band you saw live?
Jeremy: Fleetwood Mac
3. What's your favourite Brisbane music venue?
Julien: The Step Inn. Good Atmosphere. No D!cks
4. What's the best (or dumbest) thing that's been said to you at/after a show?
Michael: "Play some surf music!"
5. Why 'Running Guns' as your band name?
Julien: Shrug. Because James and Mickey couldn't think of anything better?
6. What makes you cringe?
Michael: Orthotic shoes
7. Describe the raddest heist you've ever pulled off. What'd you steal?
Jeremy: Marbles from Mr Toys Toyworld
8. What bands should people reading this be listening to?
Julien: The Sulphur Lights, The Black Lips, The Jam
Jeremy: Spandau Ballet!
9. The Beatles or Rolling Stones?
Michael: The Who - with Keith Moon
10. You are guilty of shameful things. What are these BAAAD things?
Julien: Some Girls is a good song.
11. You can choose one musician, alive or dead, to perform with Running Guns for one night only. Who do you choose?
Jeremy: Steve Norman - it's about time Running Guns got some New Romantic sax solos.
Michael: Enough of you New Romantic rot Jeremy... Bo Diddley
12. If someone wrote a biography for Running Guns what would the title be?
Julien: Running Guns Get Tight!
13. What can we expect from Running Guns in the near future?
Jeremy: Aluminium suits, lasers, phasers, warp drives, flying cars and the re-introduction of basketball cards as a popular trade item. A new EP and album later this year...

Running Guns - Website
Running Guns - Facebook

MMB Presents - Jacuzzi Boys

2010-05-17T20:47:00.002+10:00

Jacuzzi Boys are Danny Gonzalez, Gabriel Alcala and Diego Monasterios, a fuzzed out garage rock trio from Miami, Florida. This pupil-dilatingly Nuggets-influenced trio cut their teeth over the past couple of years with a string of seven-inch releases before going on to release the debut album 'No Seasons' in 2009, a record full of fuzz, bad acid, and animal references.

The band rehearse at bassist Danny Gonzalez's place, deep in Bill Baggs State Park, a lush green expanse of wilderness on the outskirts of Miami. Park life has seeped into the band's lyrics, most notably the funkiness of cohabitating with wildlife. ``For awhile, every song had an animal in it,'' says Alcala, 24. ``Rats, possums, snakes, crocodiles . . .''

``I had a snake die inside the walls of my bathroom,'' says Gonzalez, 28. ``It smelled so bad that I didn't even go in there for a week, and then one day I walked by and thought `Hey, the smell is gone' and I walked in, and there was a blanket of flies covering the whole tub and the window.'' His struggle with the funk became the track Smells Dead on the Jacuzzi Boys' debut album, No Seasons.

The band's psychedelic sound is reminiscent of the 13th Floor Elevators or the ‘80s Flaming Lips and is beginning to garner them significant attention. Fellow Miami resident and godfather of punk rock Mr. James Newell Osterberg, Jr. (AKA Iggy Pop) is one of the converted, “There’s a band here in Miami called the Jacuzzi Boys. It’s a stupid name but they’ve got a good spirit. Shout out to the Jacuzzi Boys!”

Gig of the Week - Regurgitator / Last Dinosaurs @ Brisbane Powerhouse, Sun 16 May

2010-05-13T00:51:00.003+10:00

Brisbane Powerhouse at New Farm is celebrating it's 10th Birthday this Sunday and as part of a day of free events and celebrations two of Brisbane's best bands will be taking to the stage.

Regurgitator need no introductions, being one of Brisbane's most high profile bands of the past fifteen years. The genre-blending outfit started out way back in 1994, storming the alternative music scene with numbers like I Sucked a Lot of Cock To Get Where I Am. Along with the attitude, Regurgitator were blessed with highly charismatic frontman Quan Yeomans. Warner snapped them up for a multi-album deal and soon the boys from Brisbane were sharing stages with Beck, the Chili Peppers and the Prodigy.
Regurgitator hit their peak in 1998 when Polyester Girl - their biggest-selling single - helped push the album Unit to sales of 240,000-plus. They joined Midnight Oil for an anti-uranium mine demonstration at Jabiluka, toured Japan several times and headed to England's Reading Festival. The band has been quieter in recent years but will no doubt draw a considerable crowd this Sunday.

Indie-popster's Last Dinosaurs are one of Brisbane's best and brightest young bands. Having just released their debut EP in February the band's appeal is growing fast thanks to their spritely, youthful sound.

13 Questions with Bonfire Nights

2010-05-09T21:31:00.013+10:00

Steve Foster and Ruth Nitkiewicz, the dynamic duo who make up Brisbane band Bonfire Nights (yes the whole band), took some time out from their busy schedules to talk to MMB. They got 13 questions further behind schedule below.

1. Who are your heroes?

Steve: I don’t think I have any, is that weird?

2. The first band you saw live?

Steve: Paul McCartney, when I was about 7 or 8 years old. I remember him playing Live and Let Die and Hey Jude, it was a pretty awesome first gig.

Ruth: Screamfeeder at Albert Park (as it was then known) when I was about 15 years old. I danced on stage like an idiot.

3. What's your favourite Brisbane music venue?

Steve: As an all round venue, it would have to be the Troubadour. The Valley can get a little crazy so going to the Troubadour feels like shelter from the storm. Lofly Hangar is also really cool, it just feels like a massive house party.

4. What’s the best (or dumbest) thing that’s been said to you at/after a show?

Steve: “Hey! Are you that drummer guy from that band, the Mess Hall, you guys are awesome, would you like me to buy you a drink?” To which I replied, “Yes I am, and I would like a drink.”

5. Why 'Bonfire Nights' as your band name?

Steve: We came up with it on bonfire night last year, which is celebrated on the 5^th of November in the UK. I remember when I was growing up there, that all the kids would build these huge bonfires and burn effigies of Guy Fawkes. It was always a really exciting time but also a little dark and scary, which in a way is reflected in the music, so it seemed appropriate.

6. What makes you cringe?

Ruth: David Koch. Seriously. Die already.

7. Describe the raddest heist you’ve ever pulled off. What’d you steal?

Ruth: British India’s rider. They deserved it.

8. What bands should people reading this be listening to?

Ruth: At the moment I’m loving Beaches, a band from Melbourne. Five girls that play fuzzy psychedelic tunes; they’re great.

Steve: Band of Skulls. In fact, we like a lot of bands beginning with the letter ‘B’: Blonde on Blonde, BRMC, Butcher Birds, The Beatles (see question 9), Breeders, Bat For Lashes….

9. The Beatles or Rolling Stones?

See question 8.

10. You are guilty of shameful things. What are these BAAAAD things?

Ruth: I vomited in front of Devo, backstage at Splendour in the Grass 2008. Not my finest hour.

11. You can choose one musician, alive or dead, to perform with 'Bonfire Nights' for one night only. Who do you choose?

Marc Bolan.

12. If someone wrote a biography for 'Bonfire Nights' what would the title be?

“Is That It?”

13. What can we expect from 'Bonfire Nights' in the near future?

We’re launching our debut EP in July, and will be touring interstate in the coming months.

Bonfire Nights - Website

Bonfire Nights are playing the Troubadour May 14 & 25

Sounds of Brisbane - Blonde on Blonde

2010-05-09T21:12:00.004+10:00

Do you like music? Smoking? Jack Daniels? Are you possessed by a burning desire to quit your day job?

Yes? Then there's a band from Brisbane after you own heart. That band is Blonde on Blonde.

Blonde on Blonde are a five-piece indie rock band formed in honour of the aforementioned vices that drew them together and helped forge one of the best debut EP releases of 2009.

The band's sound is based on male-female vocals, sludgy guitars and tight drums, earning them comparisons with the likes of Queens of the Stone Age and PJ Harvey. Their debut EP "Tease" received rave reviews from street press and the blogosphere including "whothehell.net" and "Time Off" magazine. The EP was also added to high rotation on local Brisbane radio station 4ZZZ, and reached the number 1 spot in the top 20 charts two weeks in a row.

Their next scheduled Brisbane show is May 14 at the Tivoli, supporting psychedelic rockers Tame Impala.

Blonde on Blonde - Website

13 Questions with Buick Six

2010-05-01T03:23:00.013+10:00

John Ryan, singer/guitarist for Brisbane's own 'Buick Six' took some time out from taming Griffins to converse with MMB. He just got 13 questions more authoritative below.

1. Who are your heroes?
Tim Rogers, Thurston Moore, Tony Montana, Duke Nukem, Jack White, Simply Red, Stevie Nicks...
2. The first band you saw live?
Sunk Loto. I think my ears are still ringing. One of the greatest gigs I've ever seen
3. What's your favourite Brisbane music venue?
The Tivoli... great sound and great people. Oh, and we loved The Arena because it had this dirty, hollow feel about it. Our friends from Perth, The Silents, put us on the door when they supported the Living End there - still one of the greatest nights I've ever had.
4. What's the best (or dumbest) thing that's been said to you at/after a show?
"I absolutely hate mixing bands like you - you guys all need lessons, especially you with your singing". - sound guy at a particular University bar we played last year. So that's obviously the best thing we've had said to us.
5. Why 'Buick Six' as your band name?
We stole if from a Bob Dylan song of the same name - it's such a great song. We also chose it for the comedic value - plenty of people stuff it up and say "Brick Six" or rude things such as "Buick Dicks" or "Buick Shits".
6. What makes you cringe?
Lemons. And Justin Bieber. Did we mention Justin Bieber? Oh and ants! They're all over my house at the moment.
7. Describe the raddest heist you've ever pulled off. What'd you steal?
This is epic - one time at a Numbers Radio gig on the Gold Coast, I stole a really expensive pepper grinder... one of the big ones! I just tucked it in the arm of my jacket and walked out. To this day it gets used in many of Nick's dishes (he is a qualified chef). I want to follow up with another heist to steal a matching salt grinder. This evidence is going to put me in jail isn't it?
8. What bands should people reading this be listening to?
The Silents - definitely our favourite Aussie band
Young Revelry - write songs that remind us of Jane's Addiction
The Medics - a band from North QLD: talented chaps
Oh Ye Denver Birds - a lot of talent there
DZ - will do huge things in their career
9. The Beatles or Rolling Stones?
That's a very hard question... The Beatles. A band we have grown up listening to and the greatest band of all time. Nick can sing every song word-for-word off Revolver... this is great when we have long car trips together because his singing voice is superb. Ahem...
10. You are guilty of shameful things. What are these BAAAD things?
How did you know about this? We may/may not have stolen some sandwiches that belonged to a high-profile band when we supported them... don't want to mention any names here. We eat lots of carbs - that's really a bad thing.
11. You can choose one musician, alive or dead, to perform with 'Buick Six' for one night only. Who do you choose?
John Bonham. And we wouldn't even play - we'd just let him play the Moby Dick drum solo and sit off to the side and watch.
12. If someone wrote a biography for Buick Six what would the title be?
"A Griffin is not just a dragon - it's also a bass player"
13. What can we expect from Buick Six in the near future?
A lot of new material - fact. We have a new home studio set-up going on, so it's demo heaven right here. Our live show is going to incorporate a bit more variety and we'll be touring Australia by the end of the year.

Buick Six play their next show in Brisbane on June 5 at The Troubadour
Buick Six - Website

Last Dinosaurs Video for 'Honolulu'

2010-04-30T19:49:00.004+10:00

It's been out for almost a month now, but if you haven't seen it already below is the video from Brisbane popsters Last Dinosaurs' for their song 'Honolulu'

13 Questions with The Solomons

2010-04-29T13:42:00.007+10:00

The Solomons are a rock band from down in Melbourne. You've probably heard of the place. I think it's near Sydney? Anyhow, Tim Rogers likes’em, so should you. They just got 13 Questions sexier below.

1. Who are your heroes?
Super Ted, Dylan, Gavan Brown (see Q10)
2. The first band you saw live?
Most likely a marching band
3. What's your favourite music venue?
The Forum in Melbourne
4. What's the best (or dumbest) thing that's been said to you at/after a show?
Tim Rogers said we were alright. Hopefully that wasn't a dumb thing to say
5. Why 'The Solomons' as your band name?
Because we're wise
6. What makes you cringe?
Lame offspring of good musicians. (Good offspring are okay)
7. Describe the raddest heist you've ever pulled off. What'd you steal?
A traffic cone on the Hume highway
8. What bands should people reading this be listening to?
Right now, to quote a once trendy London muso, "there's nothing on the TV nothing on the radio that means that much to me". It's not about bands and albums at the moment, it's all about "sounds" and internet singles by bands with ridiculous band names. And people wonder why album sales are dropping. Give the people what they want, rather than forcing them to want what they get.
9. The Beatles or Rolling Stones?
Yes
10. You are guilty of shameful things. What are these BAAAD things?
Cass and I support Collingwood
11. You can choose one musician, alive or dead, to perform with 'The Solomons' for one night only. Who do you choose?
Alive.
12. If someone wrote a biography for 'The Solomons' what would the title be?
Waiting For Something To Happen
13. What can we expect from 'The Solomons' in the near future?
Hopefully some interstate dates including Brisbane (which may already be announced by the time someone reads this)

The Solomons - Website

Sounds of Brisbane - The Cairos

2010-04-28T20:43:00.005+10:00

Alistar Richardson, Alfio Alivuzza, Reuben Schafer and Michael BC combine to form one of Brisbane's more hyped and talked about bands of recent times, The Cairos.

The Cairos started out in 2007, entering and winning the Brizband School Challenge competition whilst they attended Brisbane State High. From there, along with a band lineup change, they've gone on to release an EP and share a stage with the likes of Powderfinger, You Am I, The Temper Trap, Bob Evans, Custard, Wolf and Cub, Bertie Blackman, Paul Dempsey, Red Riders, Yves Klein Blue, The Middle East, John Steel Singers and Philadelphia Grand Jury.

Reportedly frequent listeners of groups like the Smiths and the Cure, those influences are obvious on their debut EP, "Lost at Sea", namely on the tracks Whales and New Balance. Despite their obvious influences The Cairos' sound manages to avoid sounding completely derivative, delivering enjoyable indie pop with a dark, danceable post-punk tilt.

The band are currently back in Brisbane after touring around Australia and are headlining an all ages show at The Hive this Saturday. $10 entry.

New Sounds - Disappears

2010-04-28T19:59:00.005+10:00

Chicago's Disappears (fronted by Brian Case, formerly of The Ponys) released their debut album, 'Lux' earlier this month. Up until this point the band had self-released a clutch of material, two singles and a limited live album, and followed the Anton Newcombe school of thought by releasing all their shit for free.

Lux is a solid debut, showcasing the band's reverb-heavy fuzzy guitars, punchy rhythms, and shoegaze aesthetic. At times it sounds like Lou Reed fronting My Bloody Valentine, reverb-heavy rock that leans heavily toward the distorted wall of sound of Kevin Shields' group, while not quite retaining Reed's lyrically incisive wit.

DZ's 'Teeth' Video

2010-04-28T03:27:00.000+10:00

So if you haven't seen it yet Brisbane's own DZ have gotten around to recording a video for their song 'Teeth', released on their EP 'Ruined My Life' late last year. Its shot in and around Brisbane so you might just recognise a couple of spots. Anyhow have a look below.

MMB Presents - Beehive & The Barracudas

2010-04-28T02:39:00.000+10:00

"The Beehive & The Barracudas story is a sordid and twisted tale. Born in the frigid bayou's of Blight, Michigan the Cudas busted outta the Upper Peninsula and brought their plastic sound to San Diego. These Sturgeon River Wetbacks are committed to performing strange dreams and weak sounds. Armed with confrontational attitude and 15 Watt amps, the Cudas take no prisoners. Whether it's a thumping Tupperware, Blues infected stomp of fuzzed out, staccato shards pf synchronized musical exclamations, Beehive and the Barracudas are making some of the finest sounds of their time. An esoteric, alienating, molestation for everyone."

Beehive & the Barracudas are a garage rock band formed back in 1998 in San Diego, California. The core members of the group are Dustin "Dirty" Milsap, Gar "Dner" Wood, and Tracy "Haze" Wooley, though they are frequently joined live and on record by other San Diego musicians such as members of Rocket from the Crypt. The band use pseudoynms in connection with the band and maintain a fictitious backstory in which they claim to be originally from "Blight, Michigan", describing their sound as "Blight blues" and "plastic soul". To date they've released six albums on minor labels but are reportedly on hiatus at the moment.

Beehive & the Barracudas formed when Kerry Davis relocated from Long Beach, California to San Diego following the breakup of her band the Red Aunts.There she met Gar "Dner" Wood, formerly of Fishwife and Tanner, and Dustin "Dirty" Milsap, formerly of Rice and longtime roadie for Rocket from the Crypt. The three formed Beehive & the Barracudas while playing together in Wood's studio. Davis would eventually leave the band though and be replaced by Tracy Wooley, formerly of Tourette's Lautrec and Tammy Faye, under the pseudonym Tracy Haze.

Having put out six albums the bands sound does vary. Their first couple of albums focusing on dance-ready gargage rock full of raw, driving, pounding rhythms and attitude-laced vocals. Think early of Jack White or The Gories but where the musicians swap lead vocals at will, sometimes even in the middle of the song, and guitar leads or organ breaks have a tendency to leap out of the woodwork. Most of the tracks even begin with a brief burst of the musicians jabbering before launching into the song proper.

From there Beehive and the Barracudas took a more subdued, smoldering and angular approach. Still no less raw though and certainly no less immediate, featuring a mix of live drums and old drum machines, dingy guitars and squidgy analog synths. But enough typing, check out Stuck on the Bus and Gospel Truth/Thirsty for Some Blood Below.

Sounds of Brisbane - Disco Nap

2010-04-23T22:30:00.004+10:00

Disco Nap - 'A classic rave/club-whore term that refers to a brief (30-90 minute) nap which a person takes in between two large events (e.g., raves and circuit parties). Because both events may span hours into the double-digits, there is little time to sleep. A disco nap helps to afford one the energy to make it through the second event.'

That's the meaning behind the name of Brisbane outfit Disco Nap, a project started by Ross Hope after his then band Iron On went on hiatus in late 2008. Disco Nap becoming his 'disco nap' between Iron On outings.

You may have noticed there's two somewhat disinterested looking chaps in the picture above so you'd be right to think that Disco Nap isn't just a fancy moniker for a singer-songwriter. Ross teams with Darek Mudge to form the nucleus of the band along with appearances from Dean Shwereb on drums (Screamfeeder, The Whats), Pip Branson on violin (Something For Kate, Pip Branson Corporation, Infusion), Scott Bromiley on trumpet (The John Steel Singers), Seja Vogel on backing vocals (Sekiden, Regurgitator), Jane Elliott on the cello (Ed Kuepper, The Gin Club) on various tracks from the band.

The band have had a reasonable amount of attention for a local act so far, winning a Triple J Unearthed comp to grab themselves a spot on the Sounds of Spring Festival roster last year.

Disco Nap's sound is that of earnest indie soft-rock that's at times reminiscent of Hope's previous band. Songs released so far by the group show a willful variation in themes, ranging all the way from depressed weariness to youthful hopefulness.

Check out the video for their new single 'The Soft Sell' below, along with demo 'Home Karaoke'. Debut album "Running Red Lights" is scheduled for release August of this year.

Black Keys Album Leaks Online

2010-04-23T21:11:00.000+10:00

New Black Keys album 'Brothers' scheduled for release next month has been leaked online. So if you're feeling piratey and want an early listen have a look because it's not too hard to find.

Album News - The Black Angels

2010-04-22T23:32:00.001+10:00

Texas psych rock band The Black Angels are set to release their third album 'Phosphene Dreams' this winter. They've reportedly finished recording but as of yet no exact release date had been settled on but a June release is expected.

Sadly no recordings have been previewed or leaked yet but hopefully it'll be up to the standards of their previous efforts. In the meantime have a listen to 'Bloodhounds on My Trail' from their 2006 debut 'Passover'

Hellen Black Music Hosting Wednesday Nights at Club 299

2010-04-22T22:25:00.001+10:00

In a new era for Brisbane Music, Hellen Black will be hosting Wednesday Nights at Club 299 with bands set to be on from 8:30 till late every week. Check out the news from Stephen -

"Wednesday night at 299 is now open for live gigs! We want local bands UNI, Tafe, College bands that have yet to perform and/or be recognised, the chance to get on stage and show Brisbane who they are and what they are about! All genres, all styles are welcome. Some amazing bands have played this room over the many years of 299’s lengthy reputation, Wednesday night is for the underdog! Even better for all your UNI mates, its free entry! Get onboard for the first run of shows by contacting info@hellenblack.com"

Gig of the Week - Henry Rollins, Brisbane Powerhouse, Tue 20 Thu 22 Fri Apr 23

2010-04-22T21:23:00.003+10:00

This was going to read 'Gig of the Week - Die! Die! Die! / Villains Of Wilhelm @ X&Y, Saturday Apr 24' but with Villains of Wilhelm pulling out because of their guitarist Liam 'Shine Bone' Keats' health, ol' Henry Rollins has been bumped up a spot.

In 1980, Henry Rollins was a teenager living in Arlington, Virginia, USA, just over the river from Washington, DC. He worked as the shift manager for a Haagen-Dazs ice cream shop near Georgetown University, and was a huge fan of a Southern California punk rock band called Black Flag. One day, Henry and his friend Ian MacKaye (who later formed Fugazi) drove to New York City to see Black Flag play at the Peppermint Lounge. They played later at a small club down the street, and Henry jumped on stage and took the mike for a song. A few days later, Henry was called back to New York to audition for the band. Henry spent the next six years riding in vans, sleeping in the back of trucks, getting beaten and mauled on stage, and fronting the baddest, most primal rock and roll band in the history of the world.

When Henry talks about traveling the world, he’s not referring to plush resorts and genteel European cities. Henry’s most recent travels include stops in Saudi Arabia, Indonesia, Brunei, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, India, Nepal, China, and Senegal. These global experiences – like past excursions to such vacation hotspots as Pakistan, Myanmar, and Siberia – not only supply humorous anecdotes for Henry’s talking shows, but they inform his worldview. As the Shepherd Fairey tour poster bills it, “Knowledge without mileage equals bullshit.”

"Since I was last on tour, I have been working in television and radio, traveling all over the world,” says Henry. “And like everyone else, dealing with the changes America – and the world – is going through. I thought America would become a more peaceful place in 2009. I had no idea the country had so many lunatics. There's a lot to remark upon, of course. There always is."

Gig of the Week - Rodriguez @ The Tivoli, Wednesday Mar 31

2010-03-31T15:51:00.001+10:00

'Sixto Rodriguez released his debut album, Cold Fact in 1970. It's crushingly good stuff, filled with tales of bad drugs, lost love, and itchy-footed songs about life in late '60s inner-city America. But the album sank without trace, thanks, in part, to some of Rodriguez's more idiosyncratic behaviour, like performing at an industry showcase with his back to the audience throughout. When the follow-up, 1972's Coming From Reality, also sold poorly, Rodriguez called an end to his recording career.

But in South Africa, Australia and New Zealand, Cold Fact became a word of mouth success, particularly among young people in the South African armed forces, who identified with its counter-cultural bent. But Rodriguez was an enigma - not even the label knew where to find him - and his demise became the subject of debate and conjecture.

Barring a couple of sold out Australian tours in 1979 and 1981, nothing had been heard of Rodriguez for almost 30 years when journalist Craig Bartholemew found him working as a labourer in Detroit in 1996. Rodriguez himself had no idea about his fame in South Africa (the album had gone multi-platinum, Rodriguez has received not so much as a Rand in royalties), and embarked on a triumphant South African tour followed, filling 5,000 capacity venues across the country. In 1998 the documentary 'Dead Men Don't Tour: Rodriguez in South Africa’ was screened on national TV in the US. Now the Australian audiences can find out why Rodriguez is spoken of in the same reverent tones as The Doors, Love and Jimi Hendrix.'

The Tivoli
Rodriguez

New Sounds - Happy Birthday

2010-03-31T00:10:00.001+10:00

Happy Birthday is Kyle Thomas (aka King Tuff), Chris Wesiman, and Ruth Garbus. They formed back in November 2008 to play a one-off show at the punk-space 'Tinderbox' in their hometown Brattleboro, in the US.

Since then they've gone on to sign for Sub Pop Records and have just released their self-titled debut album earlier this month. The album is a journey of gob-stopper gnawing candy pop, heavy on guitar and group vocals. If that sounds like your thing check out 'Girls FM' below.

New Dead Weather Single - 'Die By The Drop'

2010-03-26T11:51:00.001+10:00

Check out the first single from The Dead Weather's upcoming album 'Sea of Cowards'

Sounds of Brisbane - J-Pan Fan

2010-03-24T22:58:00.002+10:00

Her Japan fan (or Jay-pan fan as she pronounced it) was what June Carter-Cash told husband Johnny she’d be waiting behind when he finds her in Jackson, the place they both plan to flee to when their relationship crumbles, as told in the song of that city’s name.

And that's the story behind the name of Brisbane's phonetically conscious four-piece J-Pan Fan.

The band formed in May 2008 after front-woman Emma Carton returned after two years abroad in the UK playing solo shows. It was there that she met Johnny, of Vanlustbader fame and he along with Rob formerly of Manual, and Peter Heywood from Bulldozer complete the band's roster.

Despite being a misfit troupe of band refugees J-Pan Fan possess a sound that is tight and well-honed. They play a brand of gritty guitar-pop that has earned them spots at Massive Sounds Festival, 4ZzZ Side Show Alley, Fete de la Musique and support for Final Days of Autumn at The Zoo.

Check out 'New Skies' below.

Gig of the Week - Drawn From Bees / Bonfire Nights / Running Guns @ The Troubadour, Sat March 27

2010-03-23T16:22:00.008+10:00

This weeks 'Gig of the Week' sees three of Brisbane's best bands come together as part of Drawn From Bees 'Run Away' single tour.

Drawn From Bees have fast become one of Brisbane's bigger bands. Formed in April 2008 out of the ashes of a ten-year stint as progressive rock band, 'Glasshouse' the band has since garnered national attention after gaining significant airplay on Triple J.

The quartet’s sound is a blend of four-fold male harmonies woven around flourishes of psychedelic keys and guitars, creating a distinctive style of summery pop rock that is accessible yet literate.

The gig will mark Bonfire Night’s only second appearance on stage, as they treat Brisbane audiences to the live debut of their raw drum-guitar sound and two-part vocals that has already earned them comparisons to The Raveonettes, The Mess Hall and My Bloody Valentine as well as a spot as one of Triple J Unearthed’s feature artists.

Along with Bonfire Nights support on the night will be provided by Running Guns, who are sure to impress with their lively brand of garage rock.

MMB Presents - Death From Above 1979

2010-03-23T15:36:00.007+10:00

Death From Above 1979 is a now defunct Canadian bass & drums dance-punk/rock duo that released a brilliant EP, an amazing album and a stinking turd of a remix album in the early-mid 2000's.

Jesse F. Keeler and Sebastien Grainger managed to take bass, synth and drums and create a sound that was part Queens of the Stone Age robot sleaze rock, part overblown fuzz ala Lightning Bolt and wrap it with cotton candy vocals and punk aesthetics. The result was an astounding live show and one of the best albums of the decade, 'You're A Woman I'm A Machine'.

Although they reportedly met at a Sonic Youth concert, Keeler and Grainger sometimes jokingly claimed to have met in prison, on a pirate ship, or in a gay bar, leading many journalists and fans to believe these to be hoaxes.

The band originally began its life titled 'Death From Above' only to run into troubles after Death From Above Records (aka DFA) demanded the band change its name. The duo responded by tacking on the legal minimum of numbers to their moniker and posting to their former web site: "FUCK DFA RECORDS FUCK JAMES MURPHY WE DECLARE JIHAD ON THEM HOLY WAR ENDING IN THIER DEATH AND DISMEMBERMENT... james murphy is a selfish piece of fuck that will burn in the flames of a specially dedicated rock and roll jihad. if i had the resources i would fly a plane into his skull."

The duo enjoyed unexpected success, touring the world on the back of EP 'Heads Up' and 'You're A Woman I'm A Machine'. Taking them from their first show in a Long Island basement for 12 people to their last, a 12,000 strong crowd at Calgary Saddledome.

On 4 August 2006 Keeler, via the band's official website, announced the duo's split citing that,

"Sebastien and I had grown apart to such an extent that the only real time we spoke was just before we would play and during interviews. We both changed so much that the people we were by the end of it, probably wouldn't have been friends if they were to meet for the first time again"

Grainger has since gone on to form his own band whilst becoming a sometimes member of Broken Social Scene. Keeler has taken his music in another direction, becoming one half of dance duo MSTRKRFT.

The Hold Steady Preview 'Hurricane J' from New Album

2010-03-23T15:25:00.005+10:00

Those old guys that play instruments, 'The Hold Steady' have released a track from their upcoming album 'Heaven Is Whenever'. The albums due for a May release so watch out for it.

Check out 'Hurricane J' below.

The White Stripes - Under Great White Northern Lights

2010-03-21T14:13:00.004+10:00

If you've managed to miss it so far The White Stripes documentary 'Under Great White Northern Lights' is out.

The film, directed by Emmett Malloy (who has helmed videos for the band in the past), captures the Stripes on their ambitious (and characteristically idiosyncratic) trek across Canada during their Icky Thump tour of 2007.

As you might expect, this is no ordinary tour film: The band made it their aim to play the entire continent, covering regions from British Columbia to Newfoundland to Nunavut. What's more, they staged free, impromptu gigs in remote towns where rock shows are practically non-existent, in venues that ranged from bowling alleys to pool halls to a YMCA center.

Check out the trailer below

Black Keys Release New Song

2010-03-20T17:11:00.003+10:00

US blues rock duo the Black Keys have released a song from their upcoming 2010 album 'Brothers'. The song is 'Tighten Up' check it out below.

Sounds of Brisbane - Running Guns

2010-03-17T21:17:00.008+10:00

Brisbane's Running Guns are an unsigned five-piece that plays a sloppy, carefree brand of garage rock.

The band began its life in 2008 as a two-piece, playing shows across Brisbane venues as well as recording their first EP 'Plastic Sunshine'.

In 2009 the band evolved its sound as it welcomed three additional members into the fold. They also went on to tour Australia and record their first album 'Running Guns' at Incremental Studios.

'Secret Police (Rad Cool)' is one of the bands standout tracks, melding their garage pop ethos with a sound reminiscent of Californian punk, particularly 'Beehive and the Barracudas'. Play the Youtube clip below for a listen.

Running Guns - Website

Gig of the Week - Pixies @ Brisbane Convention Centre, 18 March

2010-03-17T20:17:00.003+10:00

The Pixies reunion continues to roll on as this week they arrive in town to play the Convention Centre. It's all part of "The Doolittle Tour" celebrating the 20th anniversary of the classic album Doolittle (1989), which was the second full-length release from the band. Black Francis, Kim Deal, Joey Santiago and David Lovering will perform all of the songs from the album as well as related B-sides.

Here's the Doolittle track listing:

1. Debaser
2. Tame
3. Wave of Mutilation
4. I Bleed
5. Here Comes Your Man
6. Dead
7. Monkey Gone to Heaven
8. Mr. Grieves
9. Crackity Jones
10. La La Love You
11. No. 13 Baby
12. There Goes My Gun
13. Hey
14. Silver
15. Gouge Away

"We wanted to do something special for Doolittle's 20th anniversary," Black Francis said, "and we thought this was a good opportunity to play all of the songs from that album, something we don't normally do at a regular gig."

DZ Release Mini Doco

2010-03-16T15:45:00.003+10:00

Brisbane band DZ have released a mini doco of their adventures in 2009. Check it out below.

Sounds of Brisbane - Velociraptor

2010-03-15T17:11:00.003+10:00

Though relatively unknown, 'Velociraptor' is one of Brisbane's best live bands and were recognised for that fact when they were selected to perform on the first Club NME tour along with Philadelphia Grand Jury, Yacht Club DJ’s, Purple Sneakers DJ’s, and Andy Rourke.

The band originally emerged as a three piece in late 2008 but continued to grow, with the bands website citing as many as 11 band members.

The resulting chaos has created not only great live show, but a sound reminiscent of 60's garage pop only supported by an orchestra worth of guitars and extensive group vocals.

Legendary music journalist Everett True had this to say about Velociraptor;

"What's incredible is how coherent the chaos and screaming and shimmying sounds. Their MySpace page - fine as the songs are - really doesn't do the live experience justice. It's like the Mary Chain given a MASSIVE humour injection and several decent songs. It's like Shindig brought to life right in front of your disbelieving eyes. It's pure 60s and it's MASSIVE."

Velociraptor - Website

Autolux Reveal 'Transit Transit' Tracklist

2010-03-15T16:44:00.002+10:00

After almost 6 years since their last release US band Autolux have released the track listing for their follow-up album 'Transit Transit'.

1. Transit Transit
2. Census
3. Highchair
4. Supertoys
5. Spots
6. The Bouncing Walls
7. Audience No.2
8. Kiss Proof
9. Headless Sky
10. The Science of Imaginary Solutions

Check out 'Audience No.2' below

MMB Presents - The Detroit Cobras

2010-03-15T16:18:00.003+10:00

The Detroit Cobras are one of the most original cover bands out there. Although the phrase “original cover band” sounds like an oxymoron, it fits for this band. The Cobras perform standards from the vaults of Motown, soul and 50’s rock & roll. While most cover bands attempt to re-create the original, The Cobras take material from the past and build new, fresh versions. The result is a sound that’s reminiscent of rock & roll roots, yet still full of innovation and garage rock energy.

The Detroit Cobras signed to Sympathy for the Record Industry and released their first full length in 1998. They followed up with 2001’s Life, Love & Leaving and drew notable enthusiasm from the NYC and London scenes. Their retro garage rock formula has proven popular in the UK and prompted the London-based Rough Trade Records to take on the band. The label released a seven-track EP in October of 2003. And then in 2007 signed with Blood Shot Records to release Tied & True. The band are reportedly working on a new album but have not set a release date.

B.R.M.C Release Video for 'Beat the Devil's Tattoo'

2010-03-11T14:00:00.005+10:00

San Francisco rockers Black Rebel Motorcycle Club have released the video for their new single 'Beat the Devil's Tattoo'. Check it out below.

Gig of the Week - Pavement / Gersey @ The Tivoli

2010-03-08T23:12:00.005+10:00

There are several great gigs on this week but it's impossible to go past Wednesday's show at the Tivoli that features reformed 90's indie legends Pavement.

Pavement marked the point when post-punk turned into indie rock. When their first EP, Slay Tracks (1933-1969), was released in 1989, it sparked a back-to-the-garage movement in the American music scene.

While there were a number of hardcore and punk bands in the U.S. during the late '80s, Pavement brought guitar pop back into the underground lexicon. Combining ringing guitar hooks with mumbled, cryptic lyrics and a D.I.Y. aesthetic borrowed from post-punk, the band simultaneously sounded traditional and modern. Though there were no overt innovations in their music, Pavement had an identity and sense of purpose that transformed the American music scene.

Throughout the '90s, they worked relentlessly, releasing records every year and touring constantly, playing both theaters and backwoods dives. Along the way, they inspired countless bands, from the legions of jangle pop groups in the mid-'90s to scores of alternative pop groups in the '00s, who admired their slow climb to stardom.

Pavement’s first two LPs became defining soundscapes of the emerging ’90s indie movement. The debut Slanted and Enchanted abandoned the grandiose ambitions of other California rockers and assumed defining a humility and prosaic-ness that would come to dominate the sound of indie rock in future.

The band would release several fantastic albums over the decade including Wowee Zowee, the hook heavy 'Crooked Rain, Crooked Rain' and the famed 'Slanted & Enchanted'. Their set on Wednesday is expected to range their entire back catalogue resulting in a performance that is not one to miss.

Supporting Pavement are Melbourne based alternative/shoegaze band 'Gersey'.

Formed in 1997, Gersey built up a fanatically loyal fan base with the release of albums Hope Springs (2000), Storms Dressed As Stars (2002) and No Satellites (2006). They toured extensively, both locally and internationally, and played festivals around the country including Big Day Out, Laneway Festival, Falls Festival and Pyramid Rock. They have also supported such luminaries as The Flaming Lips, Wilco, Mogwai and Mercury Rev.

Album News - Foo Fighters, Rolling Stones, The Kinks

2010-03-08T23:04:00.003+10:00

Foo Fighters are set to begin recording their next studio album in September, frontman Dave Grohl has revealed.

Grohl, who is also set to release new Them Crooked Vultures material this year with Josh Homme and John Paul Jones, said that the band he heads up had just started the writing process for what will be their seventh studio album.

"Foo Fighters have just started writing and we're going to start recording in September so life is full of music," the guitarist/drummer told BBC 6 Music.

The Rolling Stones' Keith Richards has hinted that the band could hit the studio later this year.

Talking to Rolling Stone, the guitarist said that although no plans were set in stone new material before the end of 2010 could be on the cards for the veteran rockers.

"There's no definite plans, but I can't see any of them [band members] stopping," he explained. "I wouldn't be surprised if we did some recording later this year."

Despite the potential for a new album, Richards added that the band may consider scaling down any future touring plans.

"Maybe we'll search for a different way for the Stones to go back on the road, maybe not the football stadiums anymore," he admitted. "Maybe something different. You can't go around there in lemon-yellow tights forever."

The Kinks' Mick Avory has confirmed that the band are planning to release an album featuring old as-yet unreleased songs and possibly new material.

The band, who officially split up in 1996, already have "eight tracks" lined up for a new LP, he said.

"Things are always bubbling under or over with The Kinks," the drummer told SpinnerMusic.co.uk. "We are certainly doing another album. We've got old tracks which need to be baked. You have to go through this process to transfer them to digital, it's a bit of a process and you only get one shot at it."

He added, "We've certainly got eight tracks we could use there, so we're going to have to do some more to make the numbers up for an album."

Speaking about the problems between band members Ray and Dave Davies, Avory added that the delay in releasing the new album was because of the brothers' ongoing feud.

"In our case it's Ray and Dave that have got to work together," he said. "Once they've slotted together, we can go ahead. All the while they are not wanting to do what the other wants to do, it goes nowhere."

MMB Presents - The Ponys

2010-03-05T17:50:00.005+10:00

Hailing from Chicago, Illinois, The Ponys are an indie rock/garage band that have been around since the early 2000's. The band have released three varied albums to date that have been well received but were never enough for them to break through as a truly successful act.

On their 2004 debut album Laced With Romance, the quartet proved fluent in an addictive and distinct strain of garage rock, primarily that of Standells/Seeds-style 60s rave-ups as refracted through the wiry late-70s vintage punk of acts like the Undertones or Richard Hell and the Voidoids.

Their 2005 follow-up, Celebration Castle, saw the group change its sound to further include moody 80s post-punk, drawing references to Joy Division, Sonic Youth c. Evol, and the propulsive jangle of early R.E.M.

2007 saw their third and most recent album Turn the Lights Out kept that transformation going, the band beginning to sound a little like Sonic Youth Lite -- all cool guitar tone, none of the unpredictable noise jams.

As with all great garage rock bands, however, the Ponys perform their shameless pillaging with such dexterity and stylish swagger that they've virtually rendered themselves immune to accusations of unoriginality. Whether or not any of their ideas are actually new feels irrelevant, the only pertinent questions to ask are does the band make these borrowed sounds their own, and does it sound good? To which the only possible answers must be, respectively, without question and shit yeah.

Sounds of Brisbane - DZ

2010-03-03T11:33:00.003+10:00

Brisbane duo DZ have been regarded as one of the 'buzz' bands on the Brisbane music scene for some time now. Establishing a loyal following by playing gigs around town before going on to release their debut EP 'Ruined My Life' through Useless Art Records last September and disappearing into the sunset on a national tour.

The band has a stripped back, dirty punk sound similar to that of early Death From Above 1979, something that you can picture emanating from the basement of a packed house party as drunken youths stumble up and down the stairs. Check it out below, coupled with some of the best low budget music clips you'll see.

The local boys were scheduled to be playing the now canceled Lost Weekend Festival this weekend but will keep themselves busy as they go on tour with established Australian icons Grinspoon for the rest of the month. If you want to catch them as the headline act though they'll be back in town in April to play the Zoo as part of the 'Batten Down the Hatches Tour'.

DZ - Website

FANS attempt to salvage Lost Weekend

2010-03-03T01:14:00.005+10:00

The Fans crew are looking to salvage a few bands from The Lost Weekend when they throw a Sunday show with Lou Barlow, Hawnay Troof, DZ, Monotonix, and a few other bands in what they dub as the Lost and Found Weekend.

The show will feature a combination of local and international acts up and downstairs at Rosies starting at 5pm – the entire line up is for a mere $35.00 pre sale though some acts are still needing confirmation.

Confirmed so far –

Lou Barlow (US)
Monotonix (Israel)
Hawnay Troof (US)
DZ
Bus Driver (US)
Mt Augustus
AXXONN
No Anchor
Little Scout
Comic Sans
New Pants (China)
Mt Augustus
Villains of Wilhelm
Parties of Interzone
Little Scout
Tape / Off

NOW ADDED:
Can Can (Tenniscoats & Deerhoof)
One One (Tenniscoats & Deerhoof)
Stature::Statue
Toy Balloon
Dan Parsons

Further announcements will be made throughout the week for the entire lineup – the delay comes at working out availability with bands from the Lost Weeekend.

On Saturday night, The Cubby Hole will host Bus Driver, Hawnay Troof, Wagons for a intimate show – doors open at 9pm, door charge is *$10 until 11pm then it becomes $15

Tickets for the event can be purchased through oztix.com.au
Lost & Found Tickets - Link

Portugal. The Man - American Ghetto

2010-03-02T22:17:00.004+10:00

Indie rock four piece 'Portugal. The Man' have released the follow up album to 2009's brilliant 'The Satanic Satanist'. 'American Ghetto' is the bands fifth album and looks likely to continue their rise in popularity with some great songs whilst still remaining true to the bands varied sound. Check out lead album track 'The Dead Dog' below.

Stream Black Rebel Motorcycle Club's 'Beat the Devil's Tattoo'

2010-02-28T13:44:00.002+10:00

Black Rebel Motorcycle Club's new album 'Beat the Devil's Tattoo' is available in its entirety for streaming now on their myspace account before its scheduled March 9 release.

http://www.myspace.com/blackrebelmotorcycleclub

New Sounds - Ainslie Wills 'Wide Load'

2010-02-23T23:36:00.008+10:00

Melbourne songstress Ainslie Wills has released 'Wide Load' an impressive single from her upcoming EP 'Somebody for Everyone', set for release in May.

Wills has experienced national attention before in 2007 when her single 'Green Coloured Glass' earned her a touring spot with Missy Higgins.

'Wide Load' however is a massive step forwards in her sound, sultry vocals and a stripped back bassy rhythm section create a seductive sound that brings to mind a soulful Cat Power.

Ainslie Wills - Website

Sounds of Brisbane - Bonfire Nights

2010-02-23T21:21:00.008+10:00

1 girl + 1 boy / guitars + drums = Bonfire Nights. That's the tagline of Bonfire Nights' website, the girl and boy being drummer Ruth Nitkiewicz and guitarist Stephen Foster, Brisbane locals who've formed one of the more exciting new Brisbane bands.

Bonfire Nights rely on a relatively simple sound, flitting sonically between their cited influences like The Raveonettes, The Mess Hall and My Bloody Valentine. They're at their best when mixing their own vocal harmonies with a bigger sound like on their track 'Own Worst Enemy' where at times they come off sounding like a less serious Black Rebel Motorcycle Club.

They're scheduled to be playing their first show this coming March 27 at the Troubadour along with releasing an EP in the coming months. Check out 'Own Worst Enemy' below.

Bonfire Nights - Website

Blood Red Shoes Release New Single 'Light It Up'

2010-02-22T21:42:00.007+10:00

UK rock duo Blood Red Shoes have released new single 'Light It Up' today, a week before the release of new album 'Fire Like This' on March 1. The video features some particularly grubby looking people, as well as an overly rousing chorus, typical of the bands sound

Of the track, drummer Steve Ansell says:

“To me, 'Light It Up' is like our Pixies formula song, just groove on the verses then smash the distortion up full on the chorus. It's about feeling like everything is about to explode and that you want it to explode. it's about craving for chaos and upheaval and destruction because it might actually change something.”

Blood Red Shoes - Website

Sounds of Brisbane - Butcher Birds

2010-02-21T10:54:00.007+10:00

Local Brisbane band Butcher Birds are Stacey, Jacinta, Joanna and Donovan, three girls and a guy who are making some of the best music to come out of Brisbane of late. They released their first EP called "Eat Their Young" in 2006, and in October 2009 released their critically acclaimed debut LP, "Set My Bones', which has since gained them recognition from Triple J & Rolling Stone.

The Butcher Birds sound is reminiscent of the 90's grunge/indie rock sound and brings to mind amongst others, Veruca Salt, PJ Harvey, Sonic Youth and The Breeders. So if you're into 90's fuzz rock fronted by female vocals you should definitely have a listen.

Butcher Birds - Website

Album News: Archie Bronson Outfit - 'Coconut'

2010-02-20T22:16:00.002+10:00

English rockers Archie Bronson Outfit are set to release their third 'Coconut' this March. This is the bands first release since 2006's critically acclaimed 'Derdang Derdang'.

Tracklist:

01 Magnetic Warrior
02 Shark's Tooth
02 Hoola
04 Wild Strawberries
05 Chunk
06 6.1 You Have a Right to a Mountain Life / 6.2 One Up on Yourself
07 Bite It & Believe It
08 Hunt You Down
09 Harness (Bliss)
10 Run Gospel Singer

Rapture to Release New Album 'June/July'

2010-02-20T21:52:00.002+10:00

The Rapture have revealed that their new album will be "100 times better than the iPad".

Currently working on the follow-up to 2006's 'Pieces Of People We Love' in Paris, the New York band are hoping the album will be released in the summer.

"We're cruising through the process," Gabe Andruzzi told Pitchfork. "If everything goes well we'd love to have this album out by June or July".

Working with Phoenix producer Phillipe Zdar, Andruzzi also gave an insight on how the album is developing.

"Being in Paris makes the whole process seem kind of mysterious, a little magical," he explanied. "It's going to be a mystical, magical album. I tell him that "mystical, magical" reminds me of Steve Jobs introducing the iPad".

He added jokingly: "Our new album's gonna be fucking 100 times better than the iPad, with this record you're going to be interfacing with your soul in ways that have never happened before."

New Sounds - Big Scary

2010-02-19T18:19:00.004+10:00

After releasing debut single 'Hey Somebody' in November last year Melbourne two-piece Big Scary managed to garner national airplay from Triple J. From their the band has has continued success, including having 'The Weight' shortlisted for Triple J's Hottest 100, and will be releasing their debut full lenghth EP 'At the Mercy of the Elements' on February 26.

'Hey Somebody' may have been the song that grabbed peoples attention with its raucous fuzzed out sound but Big Scary has a much wider range than just straight up rock n' roll. Band members Jo and Tom are both multi-instrumentalists and it shows as their songs range from bravado driven rockers like 'Hey Somebody' to stripped back, heartbroken, piano driven ballads.

Big Scary - Website

Sounds of Brisbane - Last Dinosaurs - EP Launch

2010-02-19T17:55:00.006+10:00

Brisbane's own indie-popster's Last Dinosaurs are set to mark the release of their debut EP 'Back from the Dead' on February 26 with a show at The Old Museum.

Brothers Sean and Lachlan Caskey front the band as guitarists whilst Dan Koyama and Sam Gethin-Jones take on the drums and bass respectively in a line-up that has generated considerable buzz on the local music scene.

Much of the band’s appeal lies in the spritely, youthful guitar pop, as their instruments slither purposefully over and around each other. Triple j were quick to tag them as a promising act with demo “Honolulu” earning them the Triple j Unearthed tick of approval way back in February 2009. The Last Dinosaurs live show has also been hard to ignore, highlighted as one of the most talked about shows at Brisbane’s 2009 Big Sound Showcase by JMag.

New Sounds - Two Door Cinema Club

2010-02-19T16:22:00.006+10:00

If you've so far managed to escape U.K./Irish buzz band Two Door Cinema Club it's about to get a whole lot harder with their debut album 'Tourist History'hitting Australian shores on February 26th.

If you are one of the few that have managed to elude the sounds of single 'I Can Talk' to date Two Door Cinema Club are an an Irish electropop, indie rock band, compared sonically by many to early Bloc Party and Maximo Park. However in saying that lead singer Alex Trimbles' vocals are far more lightweight than the usual brit dance rock bands. This difference doesn't prove a hinderance though as Trimbles' voice play an integral role in the Two Door Cinema Club sound as their songs largely rely on fast, heavy beats mixed with honeysweet vocals. Eliot James, who co-produced the last Kaiser Chiefs album, took lead on the album.

The Fall to Release New Album

2010-02-19T15:24:00.003+10:00

In news that won't be of concern to most, aging front man Mark E. Smith and his post-punk band the Fall have announced they will be releasing a new album 'Your Future Is Our Clutter'.

The release is scheduled for April of this year and will be made available digitally and on a double album. The full tracklisting is:

'O.F.Y.C. Showcase'
'Bury Pts. 1 + 3'
'Mexico Wax Solvent'
'Cowboy George'
'Hot Cake'
'Y.F.O.C./Slippy Floor'
'Chino'
'Funnel Of Love'
'Weather Report 2'

BRMC - Conscience Killer

2010-02-19T15:16:00.003+10:00

Black Rebel Motorcycle Club have released a new track, Conscience Killer from their upcoming album Beat the Devil's Tattoo. Enjoy.

New Sounds - The Black Belles

2010-02-17T11:23:00.005+10:00

Jack White's been a busy man. Not only has he had time to form three bands but in the recent past he's also discovered and produced a new act for this record label, The Black Belles. The Black Belles, a group about whom little is known except that they were assembled by White, feature Nashville burlesque model Erin Belle and have a fondness for slightly medieval-looking wide-brimmed hats. It's possible that the Belles might sound a little too like the White Stripes for some but if you enjoy some simple kick drum smashing backed by some textured electro-organ, crunchy guitar, and female vocals then you should find something worthwhile with their sound.

Here's the bands first single 'What Can I Do'

New The Strange Boys Album Leaked

2010-02-16T00:08:00.005+10:00

In news that will interest those that know their way around the asshole of the internet an advance copy of Texan garage rockers, The Strange Boys new album 'Be Brave' has been leaked in full.

Tracklisting:
1. I See
2. A Walk On The Beach
3. Be Brave
4. Friday In Paris
5. Between Us
6. Da Da
7. Night Might
8. Dare I Say
9. Laugh At Sex, Not Her
10. All You Can Hide Inside
11. The Unsent Letter
12. You Can't Only Love When You Want

Their debut album 'Strange Boys & Girls Club' only recently saw release in Australia and was generally well received.

The Radio Dept. - Album Release Details

2010-02-15T23:48:00.005+10:00

Swedish dream-pop group The Radio Dept.’s oft-delayed third record Clinging To A Scheme look like it will finally see the light of day in April later this year. A full tracklisting for the highly anticipated album has been released along with beat-driven single “Heaven’s On Fire”, complete with Thurston Moore intro.

Album Tracklisting:

1. "Domestic Scene"
2. "Heaven's on Fire"
3. "This Time Around"
4. "Never Follow Suit"
5. "A Token of Gratitude"
6. "The Video Dept."
7. "Memory Loss"
8. "David"
9. "Four Months in the Shade"
10. "You Stopped Making Sense"