Category Archives: Music

Ben Folds covers Ke$ha’s "Sleazy"

Two years ago, I saw Ben Folds live and he played this song. He said the band was bored and decided to do a cover of the song that was #1 on iTunes that day…it happened to be Ke$ha’s “Sleazy”.

I have a running joke with my friends, if you listen to Ke$ha, your ears get ‘Ke$ha Krab$’…I think you’re safe when Ben Folds sings.

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Clem Snide covers Journey’s "Faithfully"

It’s Day 5 of ‘Cover Song Month‘.

I actually had this song in mind when I decided to dedicate a month to cover songs. I got a music sampler in a magazine a few years back and Clem Snide’s version of Journey’s “Faithfully” was on the disc included inside. I am a closet Journey fan, but Clem Snide’s version is more intimate.

“Glee” may have ruined this song, but Clem Snide brought it back to life.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4suqmCMnifA

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Ra Ra Riot covers Steve Winwood’s "Valerie"

We are four days into ‘Cover Song Month‘ and we are having a blast.

Steve Winwood is an underrated musician, but “Valerie” is listed under ‘guilty pleasure music’ in most people’s iTunes library. I love Ra Ra Riot and they did a great job with this cover. They didn’t stray too far away from the original and updated it for this generation.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wtHZ82SHrQw

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Nicki Bluhm covers Hall & Oates "I Can’t Go For That" in a Car

It’s the third day of ‘Cover Song Month.’

Most people my age are only closet Hall & Oates fans, but I’m pretty open about it. I’m fairly certain that I have mentioned the group a few times on this blog.

Nicki Bluhm and the Gramblers have an entire series of YouTube videos in which they cover songs while driving in a car. Their original cover of “I Can’t Go For That” went viral. I give Bluhm bonus points for difficulty…she’s the one driving in this video.

You can see more of their videos on Nicki Bluhm’s YouTube page.

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Weezer covers Toni Braxton’s "Unbreak My Heart"

It is Day 2 of ‘Cover Song Month.’

It takes balls to cover a Toni Braxton song. Weezer is known for their balls…wait a minute.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=520VLNEsfDs

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Ben Howard covers Carly Rae Jepsen’s "Call Me Maybe"

June is ‘Cover Song Month‘ here on America’s White Boy.

Indie musician Ben Howard covers Carly Rae Jepsen’s “Call Me Maybe”. He turns the pop song into something that should be on one of his albums. It will be a fun month.

A Sports & Entertainment blog that focuses on absurdity in sports, snarky banter, updates on Tim Tebow’s virginity, and decent sports gambling advice.

45 Bands You’ll Know After SXSW: Part 3

This is the final part of my three-part post featuring artists that will breakout of SXSW with a lot of buzz. A lot of musicians play at SXSW in hopes of showcasing their talents in front of the music industry elite. I posted the first 15 bands on Wednesday and the second 15 bands yesterday.. I will introduce (or re-introduce) you to ’45 Bands That You’ll Know After SXSW.’ Here’s the third group of 15 bands that you’ll hear more about in the near future.

Band – Reptar
Song – ‘Blast Off’
Sounds Like: Active Child, ANR, & STRFKR

After touring extensively since they released their “Oblangle Fizz Y’all” EP, they announced that their full-length debut will drop in May. The group received some attention from ‘Rolling Stone.’ Their “dance synth pop anthems” will get you moving.

Band – Seryn
Song – ‘River Song’
Sounds Like: The Sound Of Growing Up, Josh Garrels, & Doug Burr

I decided to link the song to Seryn’s SXSW performance at the PASTE Magazine Show. They have such a smooth sound by melting guitar, ukuleke, kalimba, accordion, and viola in a good portion of their tracks. They hail from Denton, Texas and are bound to make noise in the rest of the country soon.

Band – Wonder Villains
Song – ‘Ferrari’
Sounds Like: The Sounds, Shiny Toy Guns, & Sahara Hotnights

‘The Irish Times’ described them as “Fizzy, high-energy indie pop,” and it is hard to come up with a better description of Wonder Villains. They are a Northern Ireland band that’s starting to go places. They played BBC’s ‘Radio One Big Weekend’ and ended up touring with bands like The Human League and Scouting For Girls. A lot of people will notice them in Austin and will make a splash in the American market.

Band – We Were Evergreen
Song – ‘Baby Blue’
Sounds Like: Michael Kiwanuka, Little Dragon, & Elephanz

This French band was brought together by a shared fondness of all kinds of pop music and nursery rhymes. The Parisian trio’s music ranges from electro-pop to a stripped-down folk sensibility…with a use of a ukulele (seems like a theme at SXSW this year). They have toured in the UK with Michael Kiwanuka, King Charles, and Charlie Simpson.

Band – Stepdad
Song – ‘My Leather, My Fur, My Nails’
Sounds Like: Young Empires, Darwin Deez, & Passion Pit

This band have toured a lot in the Midwest and a lot of my friends love them andf have a following in Columbus, Ohio. In 2010, they released their debut EP, “Ordinaire.” They have recorded their debut album with producer Chris Zane, who is known for his work with Passion Pit, Mumford and Sons, & The Walkmen.

Band – Yellow Ostrich
Song – ‘Marathon Runner’
Sounds Like: CANT, Peter Wolf Crier, & Young Buffalo

Yellow Ostrich started because of a DIY attitude. Alex Schaaf (lead singer) recorded some tracks and released them on Bandcamp. He hooked some people on his work and the band started in a very organic way. Barsuk re-released “The Mistriss” with it remastered and added some new tracks. This band will make a splash after SXSW.

Band – Saint Motel
Song – ‘Puzzle Pieces’
Sounds Like: Phoenix, Vampire Weekend, & Vacationer

The buzz for Saint Motel started with energetic live performances. They built a formidable reputation with fun, inventive indie pop live shows. They have a surprisingly avant-garde lyrical subject matter. They are mostly tongue-in-cheek, but often “perceived as sexy with one listen.” Their rapturous sound will be heard in more places than Austin after SXSW.

Band – Right Away, Great Captain!
Song – ‘Memories From A Shore’
Sounds Like: Manchester Orchestra, Kevin Devine, & Brand New

Right Away, Great Captain! is the side-project of Andy Hull, who is the lead singer of Manchester Orchestra. He has released some stuff in the past, but a lot of his audience are hardcore Manchester Orchestra fans. A strong performance at SXSW will get his side-project’s name out there and he will have something like Dallas Green’s City and Colour, which was his side-project during Alexisonfire.

Band – The Hounds Below
Song – ‘For You And I’
Sounds Like: Snow Patrol, The Script, & OneRepublic,

The Hounds Below is a Detroit band that have a lot of different influences. They admit that they listen to everything from Phoenix to Buddy Holly. The first time I heard them, it sounds like Morrissey was playing with Snow Patrol. Jason Stollsteimer’s voice has an eerie resemblance to the former lead singer of The Smiths. They have a uniqueness that lack in some of the bands that I mentioned in the “sounds like” section.

Band – Oh No Oh My
Song – ‘Walking Into Me’
Sounds Like: Someone Still Loves You Boris Yeltsin, Say Hi, & Tapes ‘N Tapes

The band started in Austin, Texas in 2004, but have only released a total of two full-length albums and an EP. They have toured extensively and only took time off to record those albums. They have went all over Europe and accrued a nice following over there, but yet to really pop in their home country. Their latest album, “People Problems,” came out in January of 2011.

Band – The Chain Gang Of 1974
Song – ‘Hold On’
Sounds Like: The New Divison, Reptar, & MGMT

Kamtin Mohager had an epiphany when it watched the final scene of the movie ‘Real Genius.’ That is the part where “Everybody Wants To Rule The World” kicks in and it changed his life. He made it a goal to be able to sing along to that track. He kind of overshot his goal. His style mixes a lot of genres, since critics have compared him to everything from LCD Soundsystem to The Talking Heads. He’s a very talented guy and you’ll be hearing more about him in the future.

Band – Tiago Iorc
Song – ‘Story Of A Man’
Sounds Like: Nick Drake, Matt White, & John Mayer

Iorc is a Brazilian born musician that spent time in England and the United States. He sounds a lot like 90’s American singer/songwriters and has a stripped-down acoustic sound. His music teeters between somber and sweet, which leads the listener on an emotional journey. His sounds will work in the U.S. market, just he hasn’t had much of a shot yet.

Band – U.S. Royalty
Song – ‘Equestrian’
Sounds Like: Band Of Horses, Local Natives, & Capital Cities

U.S. Royalty formed in 2008 in the Washington D.C. area. They built the band around lifelong musicians collaboration of brothers John and Paul Thornley. They used to practice in an abandoned trailer in rural Maryland. They have made appearances at NXNe, CMJ, and past SXSW music festivals. The buzz is growing for the band and will soon hit an apex, once more new material is released.

Band – You Say France & I Whistle
Song – ‘When Lovers Die’
Sounds Like: Two Door Cinema Club, Black Kids, & Violent Femmes

The band states that they formed the band out of necessity. The cold Swedish winters are brutal and they wanted to share colorfulness that could spread throughout the people. They live show incorporates hugs, energetic frustration, and love. They are a fun band that have a full-length album hitting the U.S. market this Spring.

Band – V For Volume
Song – ‘Cheap Universe’
Sounds Like: The Birthday Massacre, Metro Station, & Paramore

This is the first Colombian band to make the list, but they don’t fit into the normal group that hail from that country. The members of V For Volume all used to be in metal bands. Their current sound is far from that, since it is a mixture of Paramore and The Bravery. The band’s debut album, “Providence,” came out this month, so check it out on Spotify or buy it on iTunes.

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45 Bands You’ll Know After SXSW: Part 2

This is the second part of my three-part post featuring the artists that will breakout of SXSW with a lot of buzz. A lot of musicians play at SXSW in hopes of showcasing their talents in front of the music industry elite. I posted the first 15 bands yesterday. I will introduce (or re-introduce) you to ’45 Bands That You’ll Know After SXSW.’ Here’s the second group of 15 bands that you’ll hear more about in the near future.

Band – Grimes
Song – ‘Oblivion’
Sounds Like: Zola Jesus, Beach House & Sleep Over

Grimes is the stage name of French Canadian artist, Claire Boucher. She incorporates visual art, dance, and video during her live performances. She has released four albums since 2010, she’s has been busy lady. Grimes is a mixture of a lot of artists, with some Enya & Aphex Twin being two of her biggest influences. It is hard to determine her genre, but if you catch her show, you’ll be introduced to a few that you’re not expecting.

Band – Hoodie Allen
Song – ‘#WhiteGirlProblems’
Sounds Like: Chiddy Bang, Asher Roth, & Mac Miller

Hoodie Allen (Steven Markowitz) is a Brooklyn-born frat-rapper. He has garnered some buzz on Twitter by naming a song that contains a hashtag. He has been featured on MTU and has appeared on Billboard’s Uncharted Territory for indie artists. If you like the frat-rap genre, he’s one of the best new guys in the genre.

Band – J.D. McPherson
Song – ‘North Side Gal’
Sounds Like: Black Joe Lewis & The Honeybears, early Elvis, & Ray Charles

McPheron’s retro-rockability style is a breath of fresh air in the indie music genre. You can tell that a lot of his influence comes from rockabilly, early Motown, and Elvis Presley. His album ‘Signs & Signifiers” will be released on April 17th on Rounder Records. If he’s in a town near you, check him out…I’m not just saying that because I feel like this song is about a cute Chicago Cubs fan.

Band – Mariah McManus
Song – ‘Say It Again’
Sounds Like: Sara Bareilles, Taylor Swift, & Anna Nalick

McManus is only 19 years old, but her sound is a mixture of Imogen Heap and Portishead, with Taylor Swift’s innocence. Her songs are about a teenager navigating the world, but her mature voice doesn’t land her in the “tween pop” genre. Her songs are like candy-coated honesty…which I would eat.

Band – Royal Teeth
Song – ‘Wild’
Sounds Like: Two Door Cinema Club, Vampire Weekend & Passion Pit

Royal Teeth is 1980s New Wave meets indie dance pop. It is a cretive style of music and will be accepted by a very wide audience. They have on released one synth-infused EP, ‘Act Naturally,’ with an LP in the works. They pride themselves on being themselves and if the audience responds, it is really easy.

Band – Mmoths
Song – ‘Heart’
Sounds Like: Neon Indian, Air Tycoon & St. Lucia

Mmoths (Jack Colleran) is an 18-year old producer that signed his record deal on the same day that he graduated high school. He released his debut EP on March 5th and features a lot of guest artist, because he doesn’t sing. The track ‘Heart’ features Keep Shelly In Athens, her voice compliments Mmoths’ airy and calming synth tracks.

Band – Little Lo
Song – ‘Wounded Knee’
Sounds Like: The Arcade Fire, Okkervil River, & The Polyphonic Spree

They will be right at home in Austin, Texas, because that is where they call home. The local music scene is quite congested and it takes great talent to shine there. The Arcade Fire is a popular band and this sextet omits large doses of their sound. The SXSW fans will love the energy in the room, especially since they will have local fans there to help fuel the band.

Band – Library Voices
Song – ‘Generation Handclap’
Sounds Like: Rabbit!, Fleet Foxes, & Ra Ra Riot

This is one of a few Canadian bands to make my list. They are well-represented in Austin this year. They are a seven-piece pop collective from Saskatchewan. They use vintage organs, circuit bent electronics, accordion, saxophone, theremin, and even a glockenspiel. They are an eclectic band with a nice mainstream indie sound.

Band – Hands
Song – ‘Warm Night Home’
Sounds Like: The Shins, Band Of Horses, & Beirut

These very technical musicians have a nice and unique tempo. THey use auxiliary drum beats looped with guitar riffs. It is a very fresh sound and if you’re a fan of The Shins, you’ll enjoy Hands. They will be opening for Deehoof, DeVotchKa, and Foster The People in 2012.

Band – Imagine Dragons
Song – ‘It’s Time’
Sounds Like: Neon Trees, The Temper Trap & Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros

This Vegas quintet’s debut dropped in February on Interscope Records. It was produced by Alex da Kid and will make an impact on the charts. They have already opened for mainstream acts like Weezer, Interpol, and Blue October. They will be touring some festivals to get their name out there and gain even more buzz about their band.

Band – Kat Edmonson
Song – ‘Lucky’
Sounds Like: Kate Nash, Regina Spektor, & Feist

Edmonson is a former contestant on ‘American Idol,’ but only made the Top 48 Hollywood round. She was 19 and still trying to find her sound. She has performed with Willie Nelson and even opened up for Smokey Robinson. Her sound is simple and honest, something that Feist has perfected.

Band – Love Inks
Song – ‘Blackeye’
Sounds Like: Warpaint, Washington, & Seapony

Love Inks is a minimalist pop band with a sexual electronic sound. Their focus is primarily on the voice, which is “direct and honest.” Warpaint has a cult following and once they hear “Blackeye,” they will be lining up to see them.

Band – Outernational
Song – ‘Fighting Song’
Sounds Like: Gogol Bordello, The Clash & post-punk protest music

Outernational is a New York that have collaborated with Tom Morrello, Chad Smith of the Red Hot Chili Peppers, and Calle 13. They have friends in high places and it will pay off very soon. They have had a lot of buzz about them over the last few years. A lot of their music deals with social injustices and political commentary. They have a lot to say and it is very entertaining.

Band – Rockwell Knuckles
Song – ‘Play Catch’
Sounds Like: Vandalyzm, Black Spade, & Freddie Gibbs

You have to respect a guy that likens his rapping style to Kenny Powers. “The whole project has an aggressive, non-apologetic, abrasive (vibe).” I guess he wants to verbally throw a fast ball in your ears and then give you the finger when you walk back to the dugout. He is the best rapper to come out of St. Louis in awhile and he will gain a bigger a national audience after his appearance at SXSW.

Band – Matt Corby
Song – ‘Brother’
Sounds Like: Bon Iver, Boy & Bear & Nick Drake

Corby had an unusual start to his career, he appeared on an Australian reality television show. He spent most of his 20s gaining experience as a songwriter and after selling out shows in London, he was showcased at last year’s SXSW. In November, he released an EP, ‘Into The Flame.’ He scheduled to do a national tour and then back to Australia. I’d advise that you catch him while he’s in the States.

CHECK OUT THE FINAL 15 BANDS IN PART 3

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45 Bands You’ll Know After SXSW: Part 1

South By Southwest is a yearly festival that introduces the world to new ideas and entertainment. It is held in Austin, Texas and holds panels on technology, music and film. A lot of musicians play at SXSW in hopes of showcasing their talents in front of the music industry elite. The music section of the festival started last night and runs through Friday. Bands can get a lot of buzz after putting on an entertaining show. For the next three days, I will introduce (or re-introduce) you to ’45 Bands That You’ll Know After SXSW.’ Here’s the first 15 bands that you’ll hear more about in the near future.

Band – Typhoon
Song – ‘The Honest Truth’
Sounds Like: The Decemberists, The Rural Alberta Advantage, & Seryn

Typhoon started in 2005 and released three albums on Gorilla Boy Records. The bands went on hiatus in 2008, but reformed in 2010 and have since released two albums. They are currently writing their third album on Tender Loving Empire Records. I think you guys will enjoy the video for ‘The Honest Truth,’ it’s pretty funny.

Band – ANR (Awesome New Republic)
Song – ‘It’s A Big Problem’
Sounds Like: STRFKR, Bloc Party, & M83

ANR originated in Miami, Florida and it’s a two-piece band that started in 2003. Their latest album, ‘Stay Kids’, garnered critical praise from ‘Stereogum’ and other mainstream critics. They made some headlines when their record label openly marketed a release for BitTorrent users.

Band – Motopony
Song – ‘Wait For Me’
Sounds Like: Iron and Wine, Bon Iver, & Fleet Foxes

This four-piece band is lead by singer/songwriter, Daniel Blue. In their self-titled debut, Blue’s songwriting is noticeably deep and their combination of synthesizer and mellow guitar rifts, is very hard to do. This band sounds a lot like the bands that are breaking out in indie music and will get some notice down at SXSW.

Band – Alabama Shakes
Song – ‘Hold On’
Sounds Like: Janis Joplin, The Raconteurs, &Kings Of Leon

At first listen, I thought that the Alabama Shakes had s singer that resembled a mixture of Janis Joplin and early Robert Plant. I listened to more of their material and it only cemented what I thought at first listen. Brittany Howard has amazing vocals and the front-runner of being the breakout star of this year’s festival. They have already received acclaim from their performance at last year’s CMJ Festival and NPR named them one of the bands to watch.

Band – Capital Cities
Song – ‘Safe And Sound’
Sounds Like: MGMT, STRFKR, & Teeth

This electro-pop band hails from Los Angeles, CA. They recordings are high-quality, yet has a vintage sounds. They use a vintage Juno-106 keyboard, which could be why it has such a nice feel of new & old. They have only released an EP so far, but with the success of that in the U.S. and even in places like Peru, an LP will be in their immediate future.

Band – Bad Rabbits
Song – ‘Neverland’
Sounds Like: Chromeo, Morris Day & the Time, & Foxy Shazam

Bad Rabbits members’ are comprised of first-generation Americans from India, Argentina, Ghana, & Isreal. A lot of styles go into their music, but there are a lot of funk that jumps out at you. Their style will receive attention from hipsters, old dance-funk fans, and indie music aficionados.

Band – Folk Uke
Song – ‘Shit Makes The Flowers Grow’
Sounds Like: Garfunkel & Oates, The Barnkickers, & Benny Wiwi

It is hard to think of bands that really sound like Folk Uke. I don’t think they make songs that are meant to be overtly comedic like Garfunkel & Oates. Their songs are edgy and harmonic, wrapped in snark. I enjoy their stuff and think that a lot of you will too.

Band – Blondfire
Song – ‘Where The Kids Are’
Sounds Like: Ganglians, Foster The People, Rabbit!

The brother/sister duo were the first unsigned band to reach #1 on the iTunes Alternative chart. Their upcoming album ‘Win The Game’ was self-produced. I respect the DIY-driven succes and they should have a great festival.

Band – Callaghan
Song – ‘Best Year’
Sounds Like: Regina Spektor, Amanda Palmer, & Joanna Newsom

Independent singer-songwriter Callaghan moved from London to America in summer 2010. Her debut album, Life in Full Colour, produced by Shawn Mullins, is set to released. Her song,’Best Year,’ celebrates her first year in the USA and taking a chance to follow your dreams.

Band – Bloody Beach
Song – ‘Quembo Que’
Sounds Like: Arctic Monkeys, Franz Ferndinand, Kaiser Chiefs

The music of Bloody Beach is a conglomerate of musical styles from around the world. Everyone from Turkish DJs to Scandinavian indie kids has been blown away by their live performances. Danceable songs fronted by a great front man, which have the power to turn any audience into a smiling, dancing crowd. This is one of the reasons why the crowd at SXSW will love them.

Band – Dan Andriano In The Emergency Room
Song – ‘Denver and Me’
Sounds Like: Nikola Sarcevic, City & The Color, Greg Graffin

If Dan Andriano sounds familiar, he’s the bassist and co-singer for Alkaline Trio. This side-project is stripped-down and has more of a folk music influence. If you’re a fan of Alkaline Trio, you’ll love it. His debut album, ‘Hurricane Season,’ was released in late 2011 on Asian Man Records.

Band – A Great Big Pile Of Leaves
Song – ‘We Don’t Need Our Heads’
Sounds Like: Look Mexico, Weatherbox, & The Appleseed Cast

This Brooklyn-based band have released a nice set of EP’s and a full-length album ‘Have You Seen My Prefrontal Cortex.’ They have a nice following and are due to release a new EP on Motion City Soundtrack’s record label, The Boombox Generation. They are expected to release another full-length album in 2012.

Band – Doctor P
Song – ‘Big Boss’
Sounds Like: Slum Dogz, Flux Pavillion, & instrumental Skrillex

Doctor P is the stage name of the English Dubstep record producer, Shaun Brockhurst. He hasn’t broken out in the U.S. yet, but with Dubstep catching on over here, he’s due to make waves. If you like ‘Big Boss’ and are a fan of old-school Nintendo, you’ll love this Dubstep remix of the ‘Tetris theme song.

Band – David Ramirez
Song – ‘Shoeboxes’
Sounds Like: Cory Branan, Lucero, & Ben Nichols

Ramirez describes himself as “a wandering man, got no money in the bank, got no wife at home watching children.” He has been writing and performing for over 10 years and describes his genre as “Folk-brewed Pop.” His songwriting is honest, unfiltered and true, which strikes a chord with crowds that stumbled upon his show.

Band – Hope Atlantic
Song – ‘Lost At Sea’
Sounds Like: Augustana, The Fray, & The Rocket Summer

Hope Atlantic are small town boys taking a grassroots approach to modern pop rock. They have supported bands such as Tokyo Police Club and Coheed & Cambria in their hometown and named ‘Hometown Heroes’ by Alternative Press. They conquered Winnipeg, now it is time that they conquer Austin, Texas.

CHECK OUT THE NEXT 15 BANDS IN PART 2
CHECK OUT THE FINAL 15 BANDS IN PART 3

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Artist Of The Day – The Black Keys

In the past, I’ve done a “Song Of The Day” series, but I’m in a giving mood. In 2010, I did a “Song Of The Day post for “Tighten Up by The Black Keys. I just saw them in concert at the time and they blew my mind. Their latest album, “El Camino,” has been a fixture on my Spotify playlist since it came out in late 2011.

Living the last half-decade in Ohio, I’ve learned to love and support local music. The Black Keys are from Akron, Ohio and the state has embraced them. The citizens of Ohio can look at them and say, “They are one of us.” I hope it leads to more people trying to achieve their dreams.

I’ve got a triple stack of videos for you. All of these videos are off of “El Camino,” an album that every music fan should own. The first video is the official video for “Gold On The Ceiling.’ The video is amazing and captures what it’s like to see the band live and shows a glimpse of them recording the album. Secondly, I have audio of the track “Dead And Gone.” This track is such an emotionally raw track with a drumbeat to match. Lastly, I have the hilarious “Lonely Boy” video. I could watch the dancing guy in the video, all day.

For more videos, go to The Black Keys’ YouTube channel and subscribe.

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Sweetbob’s Top 50 Albums of 2010 (1-25)

I used to be a music journalist before I started this blog. I worked for a ton of websites and even ran my own for a few years. I decided to dive back into the genre, since 2010 was a great year for music. I have spent the last few weeks listening to music non-stop and I have been a very tired boy. I have narrowed down the albums that were released in 2010 to a top 50 list. I had a battle with myself when picking the top album of the year. Here are the top half of my Top 50 Albums of 2010, with links to key tracks.

Enjoy!

1. The Black Keys – Brothers
Key Track – “Tighten Up”

“Brothers” is the sixth studio album by the band from Akron, Ohio, but they weren’t well-known until this year. They had limited success with their previous albums, but for good reason, this is the album that is getting them major recognition. They have been nominated for a few Grammys this year, including “Best Rock Song” and “Best Alternative Music Album.” They show their range with tracks like “Everlasting Light” and “Too Afraid To Love You” on the same album. The Black Keys have outdone themselves with this album with amazing musicianship and personal lyrics that made “Brothers” the best album of 2010.

2. Mumford & Sons – Sigh No More
Key Track – “I Gave You All”

When making this list I went to my Twitter followers for a key track on “Sigh No More.” I received 8 different tracks from about 30 different people, there are only 12 songs on the album. When so many people pick such a variety from the same album as their favorite, you have an album full of great music. I couldn’t stop listening to “Sigh No More,” when a friend recommended them back in March. Many of the lyrics and song titles on the album were inspired by the works of Shakespeare, John Steinbeck, and other authors. It sounds a bit nerdy, I know, but you will thoroughly enjoy this album.

3. The Arcade Fire – Suburbs
Key Track – “We Used To Wait”

This album could have easily been #1 on my list, because I love it so much. I had this album in every spot in the top 5 in the preliminary phase of writing this post. If you compare their sound on this album with previous work, it’s more “Funeral” than “Neon Bible.” The Arcade Fire puts out amazing music and every record hasn’t disappointed me yet. Until that time comes, they are one of the best bands out there and “Suburbs” is proof.

4. The National – High Violet
Key Track – “England”

After the band released “Boxer” in 2007, I didn’t think they could top it. “High Violet” surprised me and is a stronger album, I love when bands do that. With tracks “Bloodbuzz Ohio” and “Terrible Love” hitting alternative and mainstream radio, this has also been their best-selling album so far. The baritone voice of Matt Berninger is the perfect companion for the medley of instruments the band uses on “High Violet,” this is a must-listen.

5. Darwin Deez – Darwin Deez
Key Track – “Radar Detector”

This is my surprise on the Top 50 list. Darwin Deez is a band from Brooklyn, NY, but have yet to explode in the States. They have been touring in the UK over the past year and charted a few singles off their self-titled album there. They call their genre “genius pop,” but it has also been referred to as “bedroom pop for the heartbroken.” It’s a fun album with up-tempo tracks like “Radar Detector,” songs for the recently dumped (“Bad Day”), and songs about post-apocalyptic love (“The Bomb Song”). It’s one of the best albums of the year.

6. Broken Bells – Broken Bells
Key Track – “The Ghost Inside”

Danger Mouse is making a name for himself by working with out-of-the-ordinary artists. He has released albums with Cee-Lo Green as Gnarls Barkley and Sparklehorse over the past few years with great success. He now enlisted James Mercer from The Shins to collaborate on what they call “Broken Bells.” I am a fan of The Shins and the albums that Danger Mouse produced in the past, so this was a no-brainer. I love the album from the moment I first listened to it.

7. Jonsi – Go
Key Track – “Sinking Friendships”

My friend James over at Columbus Beer Guys had an extra ticket to go see Jonsi live a few months ago. I wasn’t familiar with his solo work, only his work as the lead singer of Sigur Ros. I got the album a few days before the show and I didn’t stop listening to it until it was time to leave to go to the show. I have to admit that I am not a huge fan of Sigur Ros, but respect them as a band. Jonsi’s solo album “Go” is so creative and original that is stands out from the crowd. Also, if you have a chance to ever see him live, it’s definitely an experience.

8. Beach House – Teen Dream
Key Track – “Zebra”

It was released in January and I nearly forgot that it was even released this year. When I first listened to it, I reminded me of something that The Yeah Yeah Yeahs would put out, but better. They have spent most of the year touring all over supporting bands like Vampire Weekend and Grizzly Bear. They should be proud of this album and hopefully we’ll hear more material from them in late 2011 or early 2012.

9. Kanye West – My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy
Key Track – “Hell Of A Life”

We all experienced “Kanye West overdose” back when he interrupted Taylor Swift at the MTV Music Awards. He realized that he needed to disappear from the limelight for a bit and it might have been the best thing that he could have done. He released so much material in a short period of time and his music became stale. When this album came out, I didn’t listen right away, but after so many of my friends on Twitter kept raving about it, I caved in. “My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy” was refreshing to listen to and made me realize that I actually missed having something new to listen to from him. He believe he became a fan of music again and enlisted the help of other talented musicians like Justin Vernon from Bon Iver to help him. It was nice to see that he put his ego aside for a few minutes.

10. Vampire Weekend – Contra
Key Track – “Horchata”

I had a hard time placing this album. I had it all over my Top 25 when trying to figure out the order. I haven’t always been a fan of Vampire Weekend. I even had a heated debate about them with my friend Carlos when I was in Vegas for a friend’s wedding, “Contra” changed my mind. The tracks “Holiday” and “Horchata” getting stuck in my head, it was hard to ignore them. It’s one of the best albums of the year and an album can completely change one’s mind.

11. Surfer Blood – Astro Coast
Key Track – “Swim”

This is another album that was an early year release that nearly flew under my radar. Even though the album was released in January, it wasn’t until a month ago when I first listened to “Astro Coast.” It’s a pure indie-rock album with catchy riffs and low-fi production.

12. LCD Soundsystem – This Is Happening
Key Track – “You Wanted A Hit”

When LCD Soundsystem releases an album, it’s nearly guaranteed to land on many year-end lists. The consistent quality of their music is something to marvel. “You Wanted A Hit” is one of the best tracks off any album this year and the rest of the album is high-quality.

13. Gorillaz – Plastic Beach
Key Track – “White Flag”

Damon Albarn said “I’m making this the biggest most pop record I’ve ever made in many ways, but with all my experience to try at least present something that has got depth.” I would say that he succeeded and Gorillaz fans would agree with that statement. Each song is a different experience and the album should be enjoyed as a whole and not a la carte.

14. Warpaint – The Fool
Key Track – “Bees”

Psychedelic art rock isn’t something that I listen to often, but Warpaint’s soothing vocals makes them a must-listen. They don’t get too artsy with their arrangements and push the envelope too far. It’s still mainstream enough to occupy even the casual music fan’s ear. They toe the line with this album, but they go in areas that exciting and new.

15. Sufjan Stevens – The Age Of Adz
Key Track – “Vesuvius”

I usually don’t condone an artist to put out a song that is 25 minutes long, but Sufjan Stevens mad it work. “Impossible Soul,” a track on this album, spans nearly ever genre during its 25-minute playback time. He could have released this track as an EP itself and probably would have been successful. The rest of the album is a mixture of orchestral and electronic themes. This is the first full-length album he has released in five years and hopefully we won’t have to wait another five for his next effort.

16. Maximum Balloon – Maximum Balloon
Key Track – “Groove Me”

Maximum Balloon, better known as Dave Sitek from TV On The Radio, gathered up a bunch of talented artists to help him on this project. He has Karen O, David Byrne, Theophilus London, Little Dragon, and many others to help out with vocals on the album. Sitek has produced albums for TV On The Radio, The Yeah Yeah Yeahs, and Liars in the past and he is just adding to his resumé with this project. It’s a fun album full of mainstream and experimental hip-hop that stretches his chops as a record producer.

17. Two Door Cinema Club – Tourist History
Key Track – “Something Good Can Work”

The best bands start when guys decide to start a band to get girls. I don’t know if that’s a true statement, but I would like to think that great things happen when people are motivated, no matter what the motivation might be. I first heard this band this summer on the local radio station here in Columbus, CD 101. The track “I Can Talk” was on a constant rotation and I noticed myself humming it all around town. It reminded me of The Fratellis meets Ra Ra Riot, two bands that I enjoy.

18. Gayngs – Relayted
Key Track – “Faded High”

I think I have a man crush on Justin Vernon. I mentioned that he helped with Kanye West’s newest album and here I am talking about him again with his side-project Gayngs. The group actually has 23 musicians from bands Bon Iver, Rhymesayers, Doomtree, Megafaun, The Rosebuds, etc. The band’s sound is big and will take you in different directions. You go from a slow jam (“The Gaudy Side Of Town”) to a futuristic ballad (“The Last Prom On Earth”) in eleven steps.

19. Crystal Castles – Crystal Castles (II)
Key Track – “Baptism”

If you want to throw a “hipster dance party,” the first rule is that you must have Crystal Castles on your playlist. The energy level on this album is intense. The track “Not In Love” was later remixed with The Cure’s Robert Smith on vocals. If that track was included on this album, I have a feeling that it would be much higher on my list.

20. Band Of Horses – Infinite Arms
Key Track – “On My Way Back Home”

This album starts where “Cease To Begin” left off. There is a seamless transition between their last two albums. They knew what works for them and they didn’t stray away from the formula. I have to give them credit for that. They didn’t go the MGMT route and say “let’s try something different.” Band Of Horses knows what their fans want from them and they deliver.

21. Ra Ra Riot – The Orchard
Key Track – “Boy”

It helps to have connections and friends within the music industry. Ra Ra Riot their friends Chris Walla (Death Cab For Cutie) & Rostam Batmanglij (Vampire Weekend) mix their album. They did a fantastic job and enhances their superb talents and makes it pop. I was a fan of their last album “The Rhumb Line,” but it did lack something. “The Orchard” hits on all cylinders and leaves me awaiting new material from the band.

22. Deerhunter – Halcyon Digest
Key Track – “Helicopter”

I wasn’t too familiar with Deerhunter’s work before this album. They flew under my radar a bit. I recognized the name and had listened to a few tracks here and there, so when I gave this album a listen, my expectations weren’t too high. I was locked in from the first track “Earthquake,” since it wasn’t what I was expecting. The genre of “ambient punk” could be just about anything. It reminded me of an Echo and The Bunnymen song, which I enjoy. The rest of the album was a trip and it’s a fun album to listen to.

23. Spoon – Transference
Key Track – “The Mystery Zone”

The indie-rock Gods, Spoon, have done it again. I enjoyed 2007’s “Ga Ga Ga Ga Ga” and was anticipating this album for a few months before it was released. There aren’t as many instant radio-friendly singles that pop out as they did when I listened to their last album, but these tracks blend together. It’s not a concept album, it’s just the way it was mixed.

24. Ben Folds & Nick Hornby – Lonely Avenue
Key Track – “Picture Window”

When an amazing author decides to collaborate with you and write lyrics for your next album, you agree. Nick Hornby, author of “High Fidelity” and “About A Boy,” wrote the lyrics this album. The lyrics on each track read like a chapter of a book. It’s great to see someone who is so talented with words mesh minds with a gifted musician.

25. Motion City Soundtrack – Dinosaur Life
Key Track – “Her Words Destroyed My Planet”

You usually don’t see too many bands tied to the “pop punk” genre on anyone’s top albums of the year list. I had to change it up and add this one to my list. I thought maybe I was just a fan and I was brainwashed to like anything they put out. I was pleased to see that this album is the only album that Alternative Press gave a top rating too all year. They had a more mature sound, but still don’t take themselves too seriously with clever wordplay.

HERE IS THE REST OF THE TOP 50 ALBUMS OF 2010 (26-50)

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Sweetbob’s Top 50 Albums of 2010 (26-50)

I used to be a music journalist before I started this blog. I worked for a ton of websites and even ran my own for a few years. I decided to dive back into the genre, since 2010 was a great year for music. I have spent the last few weeks listening to music non-stop and I have been a very tired boy. I have narrowed down the albums that were released in 2010 to a top 50 list with a few honorable mentions listed at the bottom of this post. Here are the bottom half of my Top 50 Albums of 2010, with links to key tracks.

Enjoy!

26. Sleigh Bells – Treats
Key Track – “Infinite Guitars”

The best way to describe this Brooklyn-based band would be “noise pop.” They formed in 2008 and their debut full-length album, “Treats,” barely missed our Top 25. They are a band on the rise and from what I hear from my friends, put on a crazy live show.

27. Yeasayer – Odd Blood
Key Track – “I Remember”

I wasn’t a big fan of Yeasayer until I hear “Odd Blood” for the first time. I have a hard time believe that they produced this album themselves. I’m glad that they translated their success opening up for MGMT in 2007 into putting out such a solid album. I almost added “Ambling Alp” as the key track on this album, but “I Remember” is currently stuck in my head, it’s catchy.

28. Deadmau5 – 4×4=12
Key Track – “Raise Your Weapon”

I’m glad Deadmau5 decided to focus on music instead of math, because he consistently puts out solid albums. “4×4=12” is the Canadian artist’s third album. Even if it’s not as good as last year’s “For Lack Of A Better Name,” I had to add it high on my list.

29. Local Natives – Gorilla Manor
Key Track – “Airplanes”

Local Natives have been describe as “psycho folk” in album reviews, but I think the critic was just trying to think up a new genre. “Gorilla Manor” is a modern take on traditional folk music, a breath of fresh air for the genre. They spent most of the year opening up for Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros. It should be time to headline their own tour to support this great album.

30. Lil Wayne – Rebirth
Key Track – “Runnin'”

2010 was a year Lil’ Wayne would probably like to forget. He spent most of it in prison, but before his sentence he released “Rebirth,” a rap/rock hybrid that came out early this year. Even though he relies heavily on auto-tune, he comes through with an superb album.

31. Hot Chip – One Life Stand
Key Track – “Hand Me Down Your Love”

I have a hard time trying to describe Hot Chip to people who haven’t heard them. I want to say that they are “soul dance,” but that would be painting them into a corner. This is the band’s 4th album and if you haven’t heard of them, get on iTunes and get out your credit card.

32. Girl Talk – All Day
Key Track – “Jump On Stage”

I’m probably going to get hell from my friends for not ranking this album higher. I think “All Day” is one of the most re-listenable albums of the year, but had to consider that he is rearranging great music put out by other artists. I am going to see Girl Talk live in two weeks and I’m sure it will be amazing. Anyone who can put an Ol’ Dirty Bastard rap over a Radiohead track is talented.

33. Cee-Lo Green – The Lady Killer
Key Track – “No One’s Gonna Love You”

Everyone loves his song, “Fuck You,” but you will have to take a listen to his cover of the Band of Horses song, “No One’s Gonna Love You.” I love his work with Danger Mouse in the group Gnarls Barkley and he looks to finally put on a solo album that is getting critical-acclaim and flying off shelves.

34. Free Energy – Stuck On Nothing
Key Track – “Dark Trance”

Power pop albums aren’t my cup of tea, but Free Energy’s “Stuck On Nothing” stood out from other albums in the genre. LCD Soundsystem’s James Murphy produced the band album and he got the best out of the band. “Bang Pop” is their best known track, but there are many others on the album worth a listen.

35. John Legend & The Roots – Wake Up!
Key Track – “Our Generation”

I love John Legend and he had a hand in making Kanye West’s latest album great. I also love The Roots, who you may see again later on in this list. When you combine the two, you are guaranteed to have something worth listening to.

36. Kid Cudi – Man On The Moon Vol II: The Legend Of Mr. Rager
Key Track – “Scott Mescudi Vs. The World”

I thought that Kid Cudi would be a one-hit wonder when “Day N Nite” started to get played on the radio. He changed my mind when I heard his debut album, his second effort is just as good. Kid Cudi is making Ohio proud, even if he has a song on the album solely dedicated to the green herb, “Marijuana.”

37. Kings Of Leon – Come Around Sundown
Key Track – “Pyro”

I was expecting big things from Kings Of Leon after their last album, “Only By The Night,” was such a smash success. The band didn’t seem comfortable with the instant worldwide success, after releasing other albums that they thought were just as good. “Come Around Sundown” isn’t as radio-friendly, but I’m pretty sure the band is okay with it.

38. Matt & Kim – Sidewalks
Key Track – “Block After Block”

Matt & Kim put on a great live show and their album, “Sidewalks,” is just as entertaining as buying a ticket. They are an energetic two-piece band and if you haven’t heard of them, I’m sure you have heard a track or two at some point. If they are in a town near you, check them out and buy this album.

39. Gogol Bordello – Trans-Continental Hustle
Key Track – “Immigraniada (We Comin’ Rougher)”

Speaking of energetic live shows, Gogol Bordello might take the trophy in that contest. I saw them a few years ago at a Warped Tour in Chicago and they rocked the tired, sun-poisoned crowd. “Trans-continental Hustle” is in the same ilk as their previous efforts, but under Rick Rubin’s production (or lack thereof), they have released their best album to date.

40. The Tallest Man On Earth – The Wild Hunt
Key Track – “Kids On The Run”

The Tallest Man On Earth (aka Kristian Matsson) is a Swedish folk musician you may not have heard a lot about. He has released other full-length albums and EPs over the last few years, but “The Wild Hunt” is his strongest. It’s produced to sound like you are listening to it on low-fi vinyl. The production enhances the experience of listening to it and will remind you of early Bob Dylan.

41. Broken Social Scene – Forgiveness: Rock Record
Key Track – “All To All”

I had an ex-girlfriend who loved Broken Social Scene a few years ago and for some reason it completely turned me off on the band. I really can’t explain why, but I decided to give them another shot with “Forgiveness: Rock Record.” I’m glad that I reintroduced myself to the band with this album. I’m glad that I didn’t let a past failed relationship keep me from listening to this album, I feel like I just had a break-through.

42. The Walkmen – Lisbon
Key Track – “Victory”

I have been a fan of The Walkmen and every other album in their discography would probably land in the Top 20 albums released in those years. “Lisbon” is a good album, but it didn’t hit on all the buttons their past albums did. It still lands at #42, it’s respectable, but go check out the rest of their discography before you listen to it and get back to me.

43. The Roots – How I Got Over
Key Track – “Walk Alone”

I told you that The Roots might appear again on this list. It was a great year for the guy from Philly. They are getting mainstream popularity by being the house band on “Late Night with Jimmy Fallon” and releasing great albums. This album is full of guest-stars and smart lyrics on every track. Also, I would follow ?uestlove on Twitter if you want to know more about the band, he’s entertaining.

44. Seabear – We Built A Fire
Key Track – “We Fell Off The Roof”

Clash magazine described Seabear as “Sufjan Stevens meets an unplugged Arcade Fire.” If that doesn’t spark your interest, you aren’t a music fan. The indie-folk band from Iceland haven’t made a huge splash here in the U.S., but another album as good as “We Built A Fire,” and they could become a household name.

45. Washington – I Believe You Liar
Key Track – “1997”

After releasing an EP in 2008, Washington’s full-length debut was buzz-worthy. Megan Washington, the band’s lead singer, has a voice and style that screams a pop success. They may have not received the popularity yet, but “I Believe You Liar” is a very good album to build a career on.

46. Cloud Control – Bliss Release
Key Track – “This Is What I Said”

Are you in the mood for Australian indie folk music? I don’t think I have ever said that to myself, but after listening to this album, it’s now plausible. I’m glad that I stumbled upon this album in late November. It has been a staple on my iTunes for the last month.

47. Rogue Wave – Permalight
Key Track – “Solitary Gun”

Rogue Wave is one of the longest-tenured bands on his list and they still have the magic touch. “Solitary Gun” is one of my favorite tracks on the year. The rest of the album is good, but the album makes this list based mostly on just a few tracks. I would wish for a more consistent effort, but I”ll take it. It’s still worth a few spins, just not the strongest album they have released.

48. Four Tet – There Is Love In You
Key Track – “Circling”

I will admit this from the start, Four Tet may not be for everybody, but “There Is Love In You” perked up my ears. If you like artists like Bonobo and Aphex Twin, you could be in for a treat. I wanted to add it to this list because it doesn’t sound like a lot of the stuff out there and needs to be recognized. Check out a few tracks online and decide yourself.

49. Avi Buffalo – Avi Buffalo
Key Track – “Jessica”

Yet, another debut album from a young band cracks my Top 50. I must be in love with band on Sub Pop Records or formerly on the label. There have been quite a few that made it on here this year. Some critics have compared them to The Shins, which is an adequate, yet lofty, comparison.

50. Big Boi – Sir Lucious Left Foot The Son Of Chico Dusty
Key Track – “General Patton”

Big Boi is further separating himself from Andree 3000 with this album. I love Outkast, but if he keeps making good solo music, I can survive. I only ask them he releases on album with Sleepy Brown on a track, hearing him on a Big Boi track is starting to become predictable.

Honorable Mention

Caribou – Swim
Key Track – “Kaili”

Once again, this band isn’t for everybody, but still should get a mention as a “close by no cigar” album to miss the list.

Girls – Broken Dreams Club
Key Track – “Heartbreaker”

This album would have made the list, but I had a hard time putting an album with only six songs on the list.

How To Dress Well – Love Remains
Key Track – “Date Of Birth”

Just too many good albums and only 50 spots on the list.

Kate Nash – My Best Friend Is You
Key Track – “I Just Love You More”

I’m going to piss off a lot of ladies by not adding this on my list. I may have just missed a golden opportunity to earn some more female readers.

Die Antwoord – $O$
Key Track – “Enter The Ninja”

A weird, unique band that I had to mention. If you can watch that video without being freaked out a bit, you should probably quit the internet and see a shrink.

Jimmy Eat World – Invented
Key Track – “Action Needs An Audience”

An all-time favorite band with a solid album. It’s not their best, but worth a listen.

Foals – Total Life Forever
Key Track – “What Remains”

Think early Travis & Blur albums…a decent brit-pop album.

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