The UltraViolet May 2008
Calvin Harris
Calvin Harris claims he invented disco. Well, he might have not actually created disco itself, but he’s created something. Claiming to work out of his basement with just his computer and a massively large talent, Calvin Harris’s debut album, “I Created Disco,” is so full of vivifying beats, so loaded with danceable techno beauty that a person can’t help but have it on repeat. Calvin uses perfectly timed synth and drum beats with scant, but fantastic, vocals and lyrics. Whether you’re going for a more catchy, danceable tune such as “Colours” or a just-as-danceable but more complex song such as “Disco Heat,” enhanced by Calvin’s faint Scottish accent, this album will knock your pretentious hipster socks off.
Songs to check out: Calvin’s biggest hit and a must have on any sensible DJ’s set list, “The Girls,” “Vegas,” “Acceptable in the ’80s,” and “I Created Disco.”
Justice
As the French duo Justice, Xavier de Rosnay and Gaspard Auge bring to the table an eclectic mix of anything and everything you would want in an electro-dance track. These two laid back guys have created a music movement sometimes compared to the genius of Daft Punk. A gritty mix of techno, dance, crazylate 70s outfits, and religious allusions join forces to create Justice’s debut album, “Cross.” Most of the songs are non-vocal, but that’s part of the magic. While some of their songs might be more out of the box than others, and therefore harder to get into, after a few listens you won’t be able to turn down the volume.
Songs to check out: Justice’s biggest hits feature a children’s chorus combined with an intense electro-dance beat, “D.A.N.C.E,” “DVNO,” “TTHHEE PPAARRTTYY,” and their coupling with Simian Mobile Disco, “We Are Your Friends.”
-Hannah '10
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Smart Rock
The UltaViolet April 2008
Vampire Weekend
Ivy League Pop. Prep Rock. These are some of the names given to the sound of Vampire Weekend, but those nicknames couldn’t be farther from the truth. In fact, the reason those names arose in the first place is that the four members of Vampire Weekend, Chris Baio, Rotsam Batmanglij, Ezra Koenig, and Chris Tomson, are all Columbia University
grads. Vampire Weekend’s music is more influenced by African pop music and western classical music than it is by their Ivy League background.
But don’t let the unusual influences frighten you off; despite the odd-sounding combination, Vampire Weekend pulls it off flawlessly. With clever lyrics, insanely mesmerizing beats, and the single most adorable lead singer you have ever seen, Vampire Weekend is a band to look out for.
Songs to check out are: “A-Punk,” an electrifying you-can’t-help-but-dance-a-little (or a lot) classically influenced groove; “Oxford Comma,” a reggae tinged, pop-rock tune alluding to the controversial punctuation mark; and “Cape Cod Kwassa Kwassa,” a heavily African pop-influenced jingle taken from their recent trip to South Africa.
MGMT
Hailing from Wesleyan University, music majors Andrew VanWyngarden and Ben Goldwasser decided to channel their musical talents into the spectacular whirlwind of brilliance called MGMT (pronounced “Management”).
MGMT incorporates its sense of humor and passion for entertainment into songs brimming with vibrancy and intelligence. A little bit of synth pop, a little bit of keyboards, and a lot of talent make up the pair’s debut album, “Oracular Spectacular,” which features electronic dance grooves with a rock edge.
Songs to check out are: “Weekend Wars,” a jaunting Rolling Stones-esque rocker with an acoustic edge; “Electric Feel,” a dance-inducing synth anthem with crazy-catchy beats; and “Time to Pretend,” a sort of ‘out of this world’ cosmo rock song about the clichéd rock star life.
-Hannah '10
Vampire Weekend
Ivy League Pop. Prep Rock. These are some of the names given to the sound of Vampire Weekend, but those nicknames couldn’t be farther from the truth. In fact, the reason those names arose in the first place is that the four members of Vampire Weekend, Chris Baio, Rotsam Batmanglij, Ezra Koenig, and Chris Tomson, are all Columbia University
grads. Vampire Weekend’s music is more influenced by African pop music and western classical music than it is by their Ivy League background.
But don’t let the unusual influences frighten you off; despite the odd-sounding combination, Vampire Weekend pulls it off flawlessly. With clever lyrics, insanely mesmerizing beats, and the single most adorable lead singer you have ever seen, Vampire Weekend is a band to look out for.
Songs to check out are: “A-Punk,” an electrifying you-can’t-help-but-dance-a-little (or a lot) classically influenced groove; “Oxford Comma,” a reggae tinged, pop-rock tune alluding to the controversial punctuation mark; and “Cape Cod Kwassa Kwassa,” a heavily African pop-influenced jingle taken from their recent trip to South Africa.
MGMT
Hailing from Wesleyan University, music majors Andrew VanWyngarden and Ben Goldwasser decided to channel their musical talents into the spectacular whirlwind of brilliance called MGMT (pronounced “Management”).
MGMT incorporates its sense of humor and passion for entertainment into songs brimming with vibrancy and intelligence. A little bit of synth pop, a little bit of keyboards, and a lot of talent make up the pair’s debut album, “Oracular Spectacular,” which features electronic dance grooves with a rock edge.
Songs to check out are: “Weekend Wars,” a jaunting Rolling Stones-esque rocker with an acoustic edge; “Electric Feel,” a dance-inducing synth anthem with crazy-catchy beats; and “Time to Pretend,” a sort of ‘out of this world’ cosmo rock song about the clichéd rock star life.
-Hannah '10
Movie Soundtracks Edition
The UltaViolet April 2008
Sondre Lerche
Ever since Norwegian singer/songwriter Sondre Lerche picked up his first guitar at only twelve years old, the world has been a better place. He released his debut album “Faces Down” when he was only 17, and since then Sondre has been a sensation all over Europe and the United States. Following “Faces Down” was “Two Way Monologue,” and his most recent “Phantom Punch,” which was released in February of last year.
Sondre also wrote the soundtrack for the award-winning film “Dan in Real Life.” That’s right, the whole soundtrack. His music, inspired by the energy of Brazilian pop music, as well as the works of A-ha and Elvis Costello, is both beautiful and courageous, a delicious mix of jazz, rock, pop, and almost psychedelic at some points. Check out the single “Two Way Monologue” from the aptly named album “Two Way Monologue,” “Say It All,” “She’s Fantastic,” and “Face The Blood” from “Phantom Punch.” Also make sure to listen to “To Be Surprised” and his duet with singer Regina Spektor “Hell No” from the “Dan in Real Life” soundtrack.
Kimya Dawson and The Moldy Peaches
Upon first listen, Kimya Dawson sounds like a modern folk singer. But she is exactly the opposite. Although her music has a folky, comforting sound, she is better described as “anti-folk.” Tangy angst-tinged lyrics with Kimya’s somewhat arrogant tone creates a beautiful blend of two genres.
Kimya’s success started with Adam Green when they formed The Moldy Peaches in 1990. Famous tracks such as “Who’s Got The Crack” and the recently featured “Anyone Else But You,” which stood as the sort of “theme song” of the hit movie, “Juno,” have left The Moldy Peaches a long legacy and as a forefather in the history of the anti-folk movement. After The Moldy Peaches went on hiatus in 2004, Kimya started her own solo career. As well as producing about half the soundtrack for “Juno,” Kimya has released five albums of her own. Songs to check out are “Tire Swing,” “So Nice So Smart,” “You Love Me” and “I Like Giants.”
-Hannah '10
-Hannah '10
Sondre Lerche
Ever since Norwegian singer/songwriter Sondre Lerche picked up his first guitar at only twelve years old, the world has been a better place. He released his debut album “Faces Down” when he was only 17, and since then Sondre has been a sensation all over Europe and the United States. Following “Faces Down” was “Two Way Monologue,” and his most recent “Phantom Punch,” which was released in February of last year.
Sondre also wrote the soundtrack for the award-winning film “Dan in Real Life.” That’s right, the whole soundtrack. His music, inspired by the energy of Brazilian pop music, as well as the works of A-ha and Elvis Costello, is both beautiful and courageous, a delicious mix of jazz, rock, pop, and almost psychedelic at some points. Check out the single “Two Way Monologue” from the aptly named album “Two Way Monologue,” “Say It All,” “She’s Fantastic,” and “Face The Blood” from “Phantom Punch.” Also make sure to listen to “To Be Surprised” and his duet with singer Regina Spektor “Hell No” from the “Dan in Real Life” soundtrack.
Kimya Dawson and The Moldy Peaches
Upon first listen, Kimya Dawson sounds like a modern folk singer. But she is exactly the opposite. Although her music has a folky, comforting sound, she is better described as “anti-folk.” Tangy angst-tinged lyrics with Kimya’s somewhat arrogant tone creates a beautiful blend of two genres.
Kimya’s success started with Adam Green when they formed The Moldy Peaches in 1990. Famous tracks such as “Who’s Got The Crack” and the recently featured “Anyone Else But You,” which stood as the sort of “theme song” of the hit movie, “Juno,” have left The Moldy Peaches a long legacy and as a forefather in the history of the anti-folk movement. After The Moldy Peaches went on hiatus in 2004, Kimya started her own solo career. As well as producing about half the soundtrack for “Juno,” Kimya has released five albums of her own. Songs to check out are “Tire Swing,” “So Nice So Smart,” “You Love Me” and “I Like Giants.”
-Hannah '10
-Hannah '10
The Hip Hop and Rap Edition
The UltraViolet December 2007
A Tribe Called Quest
Created in 1988, then rekindled in 2006, “A Tribe Called Quest” is known as a pioneer in the world of alternative rap. Combining jazz with unsurpassed rapping skills, “A Tribe Called Quest’s” funky, unusual retro-electro beats will have you drumming along within the first ten seconds. Great groups such as “The Pharcyde” and “De La Soul” have spawned from its influence, and it was most recently honored at the 4th VH1 Hip Hop Honors. Songs to check out are “Award Tour” and “Electric Relaxation” from its album “Midnight Marauders,” and “Bonita Applebum” and “Can I Kick It?” from “People’s Instinctive Travels and the Paths of Rhythm.” Although “A Tribe Called Quest” is an older group, it is definitely worth a search on.
M.I.A.
Sri-Lankan rapper M.I.A gives a fresh spin on electro-hiphop music; she is not noly a woman in this male-dominated genre, but she takes old styling and electro-beats to the next level. With a fierceness that most would only dream of having and astonishing imagery, M.I.A brings the sitar-tinged influence from her homeland and combines it with insanely catchy, incredibly energetic pulses of music. Songs to check out are “Paper Planes” from her newest album, “Kala,” and “Bucky Done Gun” from “Arular.” With songs like these, M.I.A will get you out of your mid-morning slump without your regular Starbucks.
The Filthy Youth
Ed Westwick (who plays Chuck Bass in “Gossip Girl”) has a band - an absolutely fantastic band called “The Filthy Youth.” New Wave-inspired and full of catchy hooks and beats, “The Filthy Youth” has the rambunctious energy of The Artic Monkeys. Ed brings incredible vocals that are both sultry in songs like “Pirate,” and upbeat and exciting in songs such as “Boy Don’t Smoke.” Sounding eerily similar to “The Clash,” the riot that is “The Filthy Youth” is a band that you know is going to be huge. Although it does not have a full album yet, you can download the band’s songs on its myspace page. Favorites from the band are “La Soleil” and “Boy Don’t Smoke.”
-Hannah '10
A Tribe Called Quest
Created in 1988, then rekindled in 2006, “A Tribe Called Quest” is known as a pioneer in the world of alternative rap. Combining jazz with unsurpassed rapping skills, “A Tribe Called Quest’s” funky, unusual retro-electro beats will have you drumming along within the first ten seconds. Great groups such as “The Pharcyde” and “De La Soul” have spawned from its influence, and it was most recently honored at the 4th VH1 Hip Hop Honors. Songs to check out are “Award Tour” and “Electric Relaxation” from its album “Midnight Marauders,” and “Bonita Applebum” and “Can I Kick It?” from “People’s Instinctive Travels and the Paths of Rhythm.” Although “A Tribe Called Quest” is an older group, it is definitely worth a search on.
M.I.A.
Sri-Lankan rapper M.I.A gives a fresh spin on electro-hiphop music; she is not noly a woman in this male-dominated genre, but she takes old styling and electro-beats to the next level. With a fierceness that most would only dream of having and astonishing imagery, M.I.A brings the sitar-tinged influence from her homeland and combines it with insanely catchy, incredibly energetic pulses of music. Songs to check out are “Paper Planes” from her newest album, “Kala,” and “Bucky Done Gun” from “Arular.” With songs like these, M.I.A will get you out of your mid-morning slump without your regular Starbucks.
The Filthy Youth
Ed Westwick (who plays Chuck Bass in “Gossip Girl”) has a band - an absolutely fantastic band called “The Filthy Youth.” New Wave-inspired and full of catchy hooks and beats, “The Filthy Youth” has the rambunctious energy of The Artic Monkeys. Ed brings incredible vocals that are both sultry in songs like “Pirate,” and upbeat and exciting in songs such as “Boy Don’t Smoke.” Sounding eerily similar to “The Clash,” the riot that is “The Filthy Youth” is a band that you know is going to be huge. Although it does not have a full album yet, you can download the band’s songs on its myspace page. Favorites from the band are “La Soleil” and “Boy Don’t Smoke.”
-Hannah '10
Noisettes, Black Rebel Motorcycle Club
The UltraViolet November 2007
Noisettes
The sound of Noisettes is not easily categorized – their sound fluctuates between angsty garage rock to jazzy ballads to almost gospel. Singer Shingai Shoniwa’s powerful vocals go from smooth confidence (in songs like “Hierarchy”) to strong and fearless (in songs like “I We”) to fiery and upbeat (in songs like “Scratch Your Name” and “Don’t Give Up”). Not only is her voice incredible, but she also plays bass in the band alongside guitarist Dan Smith and drummer Jamie Morrison. Listen to “Scratch Your Name” with your eyes closed just after you wake up – it’s a religious experience (not to mention a great way to wake up for the test you have first period). If you don’t want to buy the whole CD, “What’s the Time, Mr. Wolf?,” make sure to at least buy “Sister Rosetta (Capture the Spirit),” “Scratch Your Name,” “Don’t Give Up” and “Hierarchy.”
Black Rebel Motorcycle Club
Black Rebel Motorcycle Club, or BRMC as they’re most often known, is a band that has been out for a few years, but in their newest album, “Baby 81,” they go back to their roots and deliver gritty and dirty, yet completely pure, rock and roll. Distorted and crunchy guitars, booming drums
, and smoky cool vocals make every rock and roll lover’s dreams come true. From the drawling “Took Out a Loan” to the thunderous beats and insane catchiness of “Berlin,” to the hypnotics of “American X,” this album will captivate you from beginning to end. It’s one of those rare albums that you can play a thousand times and never get sick of. The album’s most popular single, “Weapon of Choice,” might just make you qualify for the Air Guitar National Championships. Make sure to at least buy: “Berlin,” “Weapon of Choice,” “Lein on Your Dreams” and “American X”.
-by Hannah '10
Noisettes
The sound of Noisettes is not easily categorized – their sound fluctuates between angsty garage rock to jazzy ballads to almost gospel. Singer Shingai Shoniwa’s powerful vocals go from smooth confidence (in songs like “Hierarchy”) to strong and fearless (in songs like “I We”) to fiery and upbeat (in songs like “Scratch Your Name” and “Don’t Give Up”). Not only is her voice incredible, but she also plays bass in the band alongside guitarist Dan Smith and drummer Jamie Morrison. Listen to “Scratch Your Name” with your eyes closed just after you wake up – it’s a religious experience (not to mention a great way to wake up for the test you have first period). If you don’t want to buy the whole CD, “What’s the Time, Mr. Wolf?,” make sure to at least buy “Sister Rosetta (Capture the Spirit),” “Scratch Your Name,” “Don’t Give Up” and “Hierarchy.”
Black Rebel Motorcycle Club
Black Rebel Motorcycle Club, or BRMC as they’re most often known, is a band that has been out for a few years, but in their newest album, “Baby 81,” they go back to their roots and deliver gritty and dirty, yet completely pure, rock and roll. Distorted and crunchy guitars, booming drums
, and smoky cool vocals make every rock and roll lover’s dreams come true. From the drawling “Took Out a Loan” to the thunderous beats and insane catchiness of “Berlin,” to the hypnotics of “American X,” this album will captivate you from beginning to end. It’s one of those rare albums that you can play a thousand times and never get sick of. The album’s most popular single, “Weapon of Choice,” might just make you qualify for the Air Guitar National Championships. Make sure to at least buy: “Berlin,” “Weapon of Choice,” “Lein on Your Dreams” and “American X”.
-by Hannah '10
The Kills & Daredevil Jane
The UltraViolet September 2007
The Kills
Armed with only vocals, a guitar and a drum machine, The Kills march out to battle with a variation of songs that bring a new definition to the word “raw.” They use only the bare minimum of what they need to create their sound; and unlike many artists, it works for them as vocalist Alison “VV” Mosshart and guitarist/backup vox Jamie “Hotel” Hince bring minimalism to a whole new level. Their album, “No Wow,” is a menagerie of gritty deliciousness; with their stand-outs being “No Wow,” “The Good Ones,” and “Love is a Deserter.”
Daredevil Jane
Although Daredevil Jane isn’t considered big in the world of underground rock (which is pretty small), you can tell from the opening lick that they’re go ing to make it big. Lead guitarist Micah Anderson’s phenomenal guitar skills will blow you away; just listen to the bridge of “Queen Harlem Socialite.” Adrian Gun ner’s vocals just borderline on screaming, but still remains au dible enough to make you fall in love with his voice. All the songs on their debut CD are fantastic and original at the same time. Definitely check out “The Show,” “Mexico,” “Queen Harlem Socialite,” and “SuperSonicB***h.” Listening to DD Jane’s mu sic is great, but seeing them live is almost a religious experience, so if you like them, be sure to check out when they’re playing in Los Angeles!
-by Hannah '10
The Kills
Armed with only vocals, a guitar and a drum machine, The Kills march out to battle with a variation of songs that bring a new definition to the word “raw.” They use only the bare minimum of what they need to create their sound; and unlike many artists, it works for them as vocalist Alison “VV” Mosshart and guitarist/backup vox Jamie “Hotel” Hince bring minimalism to a whole new level. Their album, “No Wow,” is a menagerie of gritty deliciousness; with their stand-outs being “No Wow,” “The Good Ones,” and “Love is a Deserter.”
Daredevil Jane
Although Daredevil Jane isn’t considered big in the world of underground rock (which is pretty small), you can tell from the opening lick that they’re go ing to make it big. Lead guitarist Micah Anderson’s phenomenal guitar skills will blow you away; just listen to the bridge of “Queen Harlem Socialite.” Adrian Gun ner’s vocals just borderline on screaming, but still remains au dible enough to make you fall in love with his voice. All the songs on their debut CD are fantastic and original at the same time. Definitely check out “The Show,” “Mexico,” “Queen Harlem Socialite,” and “SuperSonicB***h.” Listening to DD Jane’s mu sic is great, but seeing them live is almost a religious experience, so if you like them, be sure to check out when they’re playing in Los Angeles!
-by Hannah '10
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