Sleigh Bells - Comeback Kid//
New video from my favorites, enjoy!
Music to your ears - from mine - with love
<3 L.Sizzle
MV’S TOP ALBUMS OF 2010 // #41-50
It’s that time of year, Vagabonds. In the next series of posts, we reflect on the 50 awesomest albums from 2010 (in no particular order) and look forward to another awesome year of music in 2011. Enjoy the video montage of the list below and without further adieu, albums 41-50:
50. Arcade Fire - The Suburbs- Enjoy the video above, read our past posts and hear from Matt on why this is one of the best for 2010…
“Arcade Fire resurfaced after a long break with this album about growing up in the suburbs, something that presumably many of their fans can relate to. One major highlight of the album is Régine Chassagne’s The Sprawl II, which sounds unlike anything the band had ever put out previously.”
49. J.Roddy Walston and the Business- Self Titled - L.Sizzle says… watch this video
“Hailing from Baltimore by way of somewhere in Tennessee, Rod and company give us what this whacked out hipster/electronic world is lacking, some feel good rock n’ roll. Rod’s gritty voice coupled with some dirty keys reminds me why I fell in love with rock n’ roll in the first place when I was a kid. Their sophomore album was recorded on tape (yes you heard me right) the old fashioned way, it’s proof that there are some things a sample machine and Macintosh computer just can’t do or replicate. I respect the shit out of that. Take that nerds! «crushes beer on head»”
48. The Morning Benders- Big Echo - L.Sizzle says…
“Simply gorgeous, I don’t think there’s anything else to say. Listen to the full album in Jess’ post from earlier this year”
47. Kanye West - My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy - Matt says…
“Even after weekly G.O.O.D. Friday leaks and several major live TV performances, the release of Kanye’s best album to date was a massive event. As much as you might not want to love this album, it’s close to impossible. Special shout-out to Bon Iver for being Kanye’s not-so-secret weapon.”
46. Mumford & Sons - Sigh No More - L.Sizzle says…
“Proving their worth at Telluride Bluegrass Festival this year, it’s no secret I just plain love this album. I love banjos, stand up bass, dobros and well, i love bluegrass! If you aren’t sure how much you like the twine and twang of bluegrass music, Mumford and Sons is a great place to explore your courtship. Fused with traditional folk style, the boys from Britain give us an easily relate able sound that pays homage to the roots of folk and bluegrass. All in one album you could feel like you are pleasantly lost in Kentucky, Alabama or on the Scottish countryside.”
45. LCD Soundsystem - This is Happening- Matt says…
“Like the first track on the album, “Dance Yrself Clean,” the latest (and final?) album from LCD Soundsystem is a slow build, growing on you with every listen until it ranks up with the best of their previous work. Just try not to dance while watching this video.”
44. Big Boi – Sir Lucious Left Foot: The Son Of Chico Dusty- Matt says…
“After listening to this album, it’s impossible to imagine why the decidedly more gangster half of Outkast had so much trouble getting it produced and distributed. This is Big Boi back in Speakerboxxx mode with bouncing hip hop tracks like Shutterbug and Follow Us.”
43. Erykah Badu- New Amerykah Part Two (Return of the Ankh) - L.Sizzle says…
“One of my favorite artists of all time, Ms. Erykah Badu fails to dissapoint in 2010’s Part 2 Return of the Ankh. Opposed to the social and politically themed Part 1, 4th World War, Part 2 is intimate and carries themes about self respect, relationships and longing, showcasing her titanic voice and charismatic yet vulnerable thoughts. This album reflects the soulful jazz and R&B that made Baduizm an amazing album but brings the modern Erykah to life. We brought you the video for Window Seat when it came out, we hope you checked out the rest of the album.”
42. Sleigh Bells- Treats - L.Sizzle says…
“When I first heard this album I couldn’t put words to it. Critics write it off as noise, but those listening a little deeper discovered melodies and a sound that pushes the envelope. The purely heavy sound of Sleigh Bells were a welcome change at a time when I felt that I hadn’t heard anything new and truly creative in a while. Definitely worth checking out and not for the faint of heart!”
41. The Dead Weather - Sea of Cowards - KyKy says…
“White and Mosshart et, al. continued to deliver their seductively demonic, sweat-soaked blues. MV caught their collection of carcasses at Prospect Park this Summer, restoring our faith in rock.”
Favorite Albums of 2010 So Far
2010 has been a great year for music so far. We Vagabonds were so excited about what we’ve been hearing that we wanted to share our favorite albums from the past seven months. Some of the choices may be obvious, but we are hoping that the ones which aren’t turn you on to something new and exciting. The advantage of having so many contributors is the depth and variety we can pull from and we believe this list is a shining example of our diverse musical tastes and perceptions. We hope to excite you while broadening your musical horizons. As always you input is more then welcome, snooty comments and all. So have at it!
-music from our ears. to yours. with love. The Vagabond Team
My Gold Mask-1000 Voices
This duo hailing from Chicago is proof that you don’t need a big band to create a full rich sound. If you don’t believe us believe the EP and if you don’t believe that see them live.
Keepaway-Babystyle
Brooklyn locals, Keepaway made our list of 10 for 2010 in the beginning of the year and so far they have lived up to the nomination with stellar reviews from Pitchfork and Fader, signing with Lefsee, recording and releasing a killer EP and even opening for Yeasayer on Governors Island last month.
Black Keys – Brothers
We are thrilled to see that everyone has finally caught on to the greatness that is The Black Keys. If you keep up with us you know we have been long time supporters and are stoked to see that their latest album, Brothers is getting the attention it deserves when their other albums went generally ignored.
Sleigh Bells – Treats
This duo is a rock assault on pop music. Mixing the screaming guitars and pounding beats of Derek Mileler with the classic pop voice and lyrics of Alexis Krauss to create a sound never heard before.
Erykah Badu - The New Amerykah part 2 (Return of the Ankh)
This is the Erykah we all have been missing. Funky, quirky, catchy, but always with a valid point. This album was everything we wanted it to be and more. Welcome back Ms. Badu.
Gayngs - Relayted
Surprisingly this album didn’t get much love even with a superstar cast like Bon Iver, Solid Gold, Ryan Olson and rapper P.O.S to name a few. But we are here to give it all the loving it needs and so should you.
The Morning Benders - Big Echo
They turned to Chris Taylor of Grizzly Bear fame to produce their sophomore effort and the results speak for themselves. Much of the album has that great balance of upbeat yet mellow with sleepy guitars, soft drums and an unmatched depth of lyrics along with catchy rolling choruses.
Broken Bells - Broken Bells
All we have to say is Danger Mouse and James Mercer. Get on this!
Oberhofer - ooo0000ooo00
Brad Oberhofer is one of those rare gems that we have come across. This album if you can call it that, it was never formally released (he won’t even call it that) was recorded in his mothers basement while he was still in high school. He plays all the instruments and sings all vocals. If it sounds this good in a basement recording studio imagine what the future holds.
Phanotogram-Eyelid movie
Released in February, Eyelid Movie has been a constant on our playlists. The album is complete and flows perfectly from one song to the next. It’s easy to listen to all the way through time and time again.
Delorean- Subiza
Get your dancing shoes on. This is the perfect mellow electro album to get you swaying in the summer sun from our boys in Barcelona.
The Roots- How I got over it
This album shines with collaborations featuring joint songs with The Monsters of Folk, Joanna Newsom and John Legend. Each track is better than the next. As usual we are impressed.
Frightened Rabbit-The Winter of Mixed Drinks
If Midnight Organ Fight ever made one of your lists then Winter of Mixed Drinks is sure to do the same thing. Another great album from a great band.
Janelle Monae - Archandroid
We are suckers for albums that have a story to tell from one track to the next. Like Kid A and Tommy, Janelle Monae’s, Archandroid has also captivated us.
Local Natives - Gorilla Manor
We have been telling you about this band over and over again. We chose them for our 10 of 2010 list in the beginning of the year and we can’t wait to see them next month at Governors Island. This album is full of memorable melodies, unforgettable hooks and strong rhythms.
Gorillaz- Plastic Beach
Everyone’s favorite cartoon band came back in action right where they left off with an impressive album full of great cameo appearances from stars including Snoop Dogg, Mos Def, Lou Reed, De La Soul and the Hypnotic Brass Ensemble.
Crime in Stereo - I was Trying to Describe You To Somone
The fourth studio album from the Long Island based melodic hardcore band. It’s a surprising and ambitious follow up to their last release Is Dead and definitely turned some heads over here.
Gonjasufi - A Sufi and A Killer
You may remember him from a cameo appearance on the Flying Lotus album Los Angeles. It’s fitting since his new album sounds much like a Flying Lotus style ambient jam with Gonjasufi’s lilting, spooky vocals intertwined throughout.
Bonobo - Black Sands
Although this album seems to reach back and take ideas from his previous three albums it’s still a good listen packed with richness and textures that you begin to appreciate more and more after each listen. It’s a grower not a shower!
Sharon Jones and the Dap Kings - I Learned the Hard Way
We thought the last album was amazing this one blew us away. Nothing but good things to say. If you ever wish you were around during Motown’s golden age then you need to pick this up immediately.
Big K.R.I.T. - K.R.I.T. Wuz Here
This self released album has gotten this southern rapper tons of attention, especially in the blogesphere. Pitchfork says, “K.R.I.T.’s ear is his biggest strength; as a producer, tracks like “Return of Forever” and “Country Shit” find him revitalizing the staid indie rap template with the 808s and swagger of Southern rap.”
Das Racist - Shut Up Dude
Some people hate “joke rap” we think its clever and entertaining. You decide. Plus if you’ve ever heard “Combination Pizza Hut Taco Bell” then we are sure you’re curious about what a full length album from these guys would sound like.
High On Fire - Snakes for the Divine
Oakland, California-based power trio released this album back in February. On this album it is easy to hear the bands natural progression in to a faster, stronger, heavier band then in the past. If this is your genre you need to know these guys.
Vampire Weekend - Contra
The Vagabond team is split on this album some of us love it and others don’t understand the hype. However it seems that most critics are in love with it. Thoughts?
Joanna Newsom - Have One on Me
Joanna Newsom and her unique place in the world in between folk and indie rock music.
Caribou - Swim
In Dan Snaith’s own words, “dance music that sounds like it’s made out of water.”
Beach House - Teen Dream
Ummm, have you heard this album? Enough said.
jj - jj n° 3
You know us Vagabonds have a soft spot for elctro-pop duos from Sweden. This elusive duo is no different.
Ariel Pink’s Haunted Graffiti - Before Today
A man known to hole up in a home recording studio and create hundreds of unreleased songs while only a few making it to public ears on mix tapes and EP’s. This was his first effort putting together a group of songs to be released and heard cohesively at one time and it’s no to shabby.
Fang Island - Fang Island
This album is happy and inclusive. Have a listen and let the good times roll.
M.I.A. - /\/\/\Y/\
Although not received very well some of us Vagabonds stay true to our girl MIA. We get what she’s trying to do and it’s still danceable. M.I.A for life!
Kurt Vile - Square Shells
His music eschews the electronic for the organic, which puts him at odds with much of what the hipsters are flocking to these days. Square Shells is a great follow up to his last release Childish Prodigy. Both are go-tos in our music library.
Flying Lotus – Cosmogramma
Global bass music matriarch Mary Anne Hobbs recently told The Fader “Flying Lotus, for me, is like the Hendrix of his generation. When speaking of his genre we are inclined to agree.
David Byrne & Fatboy Slim - Here Lies Love
Another concept album, yippie! Sharon Jones teams up with David Byrne and Fatboy Slim to tell the story of Imelda Marcos, former First Lady of the Philippines. The disco-y interpretation of her life is set to take to the theatrical stage in the future, but for now we can picture what it would have been like to live in Imelda’s shoes through Tori Amos, Cyndi Lauper, Sia, Florence Welsh (of Florence and the Machine) and Santigold.
The National - High Violet
Most of us love The National some of us don’t. If you’re an fan you are sure to love this album filled with sad songs, that deep unforgettable voice and the memorable brass and strings section to accompany it all.
Jonsi - Go
the lead singer of Sigur Rós first solo effort with moving lyrics and a voice that could move angels to tears.
Yeasayer - Odd Blood
A favorite with all the Vagabonds, this album tracked perfectly a great listen from start to finish. One of those bands that you’re sure can’t sound that on point live, until they do.
Dead Weather - Die By the Drop
Although not as impressive as their debut Horehound this album still kills it. With Mosshart on lead vocal and White shredding in the back there is no way to go wrong.
Angus and Julia Stone - Down the Way
Another pick for our 10 for 2010 we fell in love with this album from the Oz brother and sister duo. Her unique voice is enough to captivate audiances.
Festy Fun 2010 // Pitchfork Music Festival // Chicago, IL // July 16-18
If you are looking for a much larger festy experience this weekend and not looking to head to Iowa, Pitchfork Music Festival is taking place in Chicago and it promises to be a hipster’s dream. While it’s been sold out for weeks, extra tickets have just been released at the box office ONLY. Sway your decision? Here are MV’s picks for bands to check out:
L.Sizzle says…
Big Boi- The second half of Outkast, Big Boi is one of the most well-known must sees at the fest. Get to the stage early on Sunday!
Sleigh Bells- Here at MV, we looooove Sleigh Bells, and you should too. Check out this Brooklyn duo on Sunday for a guitar shredding, ear piercing set. It’s kinda like nails on a chalkboard but in an awesome, awesome way. I’m actually listening to them right now!
JP says…
LCD Soundsystem- DUH! ‘Nuff said.
The Tallest Man on Earth- This Swedish Folk group is perfect for the 4pm Friday set with a mellow, soulful yet gritty sound.
Titus Andronicus- Check out why MV writer Jay says these guys rock and see them Saturday afternoon.
Delorean- Barcelona based dance music, Delorean has a refreshing style all their own. See them Saturday afternoon.
Matt says…
Local Natives- We’ve told you about the Local Natives only about a million times. If you haven’t gotten hip to our advice, see them live and stop making excuses.
Kurt Vile- Philly based Kurt Vile has an electronic folk sound that is a welcome change on the crowded indie scene. Read Matt’s synopsis in a previous post.
Check out the full line up here: http://www.pitchforkmusicfestival.com/index.php?d=all
Music to your ears - from ours - with love
<3 MusicVagabond
NEW ALBUM: Sleigh Bells - Treats // STREAM IT HERE
Last week I posted that I had seen Sleigh Bells at Webster Hall when they opened for Yeasayer. If you read the post then you know I was eager to hear their full album Treats which comes out today. This album lives up to its name and is full of tasty treats.
NPR puts it perfectly when they say, “it’s somehow both an aural assault and a piece of pop candy.”
Grab the album here
-music from your ears. to mine. with love. jp
[Flash 9 is required to listen to audio.]
Sleigh Bells
Last night I dragged my ass down Webster Hall to see Yeasayer after being extremely hungover and working an 11 hour day. Yes, I love music that much! Yeasayer was fantastic and we will be posting about them later. But since we always give them so much love I thought I would tell you about a little band with an explosive sound that goes by the name of Sleigh Bells.
Their name is definitely misleading because these for sure are NOT the kind of sleigh bells that Dancer and Prancer have on their harnesses. These are the kind of sleigh bells that fire breathing dragons carrying the Prince of Darkness to rain chaos down on Earth would be wearing.
Think Amanda Blank mixed with Allison Mosshart. Add a heavy electro bass and screaming guitar reminiscent of Ratatat’s earlier albums and there you will find Sleigh Bells. The best part about this duo is Alexis wild stage presence and Derek’s unwavering confidence. She stomps around on stage belting out high pitched screams leading in to singable melodies then jumps up on the speakers leaning fully in to the crowd while he shreds confidently in the background hitting the mark every time, building Alexis sound with every chord. Their Freshmen album, Treats is out May, 11th and I can’t wait for some of that delicious ear candy.
-music from my ears. to yours. with love. jp
http://www.myspace.com/sleighbellsmusic
pictures courtesy of http://sheenabeaston.com
[Flash 9 is required to listen to audio.]
Sleigh Bells - Tell ‘Em //
The first track from Sleigh Bells’ upcoming album Treats is here. Sounds pretty fantastic. We’ll be checking them out when they open for Yeasayer next Tuesday at Webster Hall.
-MW
