Metronomy – The Look

Kale Walch, Online Reviews Editor
April 23, 2012
Filed under Featured Songs

Perhaps the most accessible effort from this band in the past year, “The Look” delivers a catchy hook without sacrificing their “indie cred.” The layered falsetto really puts the icing on the cake that is “The Look.”

New DLC for Skyrim on the horizon

Kale Walch, Staff Writer
April 20, 2012
Filed under Digital Life

Dawnguard Bethesda recently filed a copyright for the title “Dawnguard” which spawns some questions. If you couple this with the recently leaked idea of the “Riders of Hammerfell,” a complete picture comes into focus. The leaked idea revolved around a guild of dragon riders living in the deserts... Read more »

Rufus Wainwright – Out of the Game

Kale Walch, Online Reviews Editor
April 20, 2012
Filed under Featured Songs

Rufus Wainwright truly has been "out of the game" for a while now, releasing his last album in 2010. In this, perhaps his "poppiest" track ever produced, he announces his return to the music world. Brilliant syncopation and songwriting are seen clearly in this track, as we've grown to expect from Rufus.

Ween – Roses Are Free

Kale Walch, Online Reviews Editor
April 19, 2012
Filed under Featured Songs

This is the, hands down, happiest and most passive aggressive song of the past decade. Perhaps the greatest lyric from the track: Eat plenty of lasagna 'til you know That you've had your fill Resist all the urges that make you wanna Go out and kill. That is all.

First Aid Kit – Emmylou

Kale Walch, Online Reviews Editor
April 3, 2012
Filed under Featured Songs

Oh, the beauty! This Swedish duo took America by storm a few years ago, and they continue their success with the new hit “Emmylou.” This is their interpretation of the classic American heartland folk music that warms that heart and feeds the soul.

Neutral Milk Hotel – The Fool

Kale Walch, Online Reviews Editor
April 2, 2012
Filed under Featured Songs

Jeff Mangum produced perhaps the most brilliant album of the indie music movement, and this instrumental marked the halfway point of “In the Aeroplane Over the Sea.” Ceremonial horns convey the brilliance and the sadness that defined the Holocaust, the central theme of this album.

Cat Stevens – Trouble

Kale Walch, Online Reviews Editor
March 23, 2012
Filed under Featured Songs

Written for the cult classic “Harold and Maude,” Cat Stevens delivers one of his finest performances, both in music and in lyrics. If you’ve seen the film, you might tear up a bit during the end of this track, but if you haven’t, then you should cry anyway.

Beck – Looking For A Sign

Kale Walch, Online Reviews Editor
March 22, 2012
Filed under Featured Songs

From the new film “Jeff Who Lives At Home” comes this track. Beck wrote this song specifically for this movie, with no plan of a soundtrack in the works. Subtle harmonica and Beck’s trademark croon capture the chaos and menusha that characterized “Jeff Who Lives At Home” perfectly.

High School Lover – Air

Kale Walch, Online Reviews Editor
March 21, 2012
Filed under Featured Songs

Air has produced many an album in their short career, crafting soundscapes from little more than a piano and a synthesizer.

Dear Valentine – Guster

Kale Walch, Online Reviews Editor
March 20, 2012
Filed under Featured Songs

Every once a while a band produces a track that shakes the earth and makes the blind see. “Dear Valentine” is truly a masterpiece, creating a brilliant hook without pretension, and crafting a rolling, driving beat that sucks you in. This one’s in my all-time top ten, perhaps it will do the same... Read more »

That Old Black Hole – Dr. Dog

Kale Walch, Online Reviews Editor
March 16, 2012
Filed under Featured Songs

Dr. Dog has put out many brilliant albums in the past, including their newest, “Be the Void” that dropped in February. “That Old Black Hole” muses about the futility of a man’s efforts to accomplish anything in this day and age. Well, darn it, they sure accomplished something here.

Eric Clapton – Change the World

Kale Walch, Online Reviews Editor
March 15, 2012
Filed under Featured Songs

Though Clapton built a reputation as a guitar and blues virtuoso, he also produced many catchy pop tunes later in his career. This is among them. Clapton creates a great hook in the chorus without overdoing it-a rare trait in any song to say the least.

The Russian Orchestra – The Russian National Anthem

Kale Walch, Online Reviews Editor
March 14, 2012
Filed under Featured Songs

Credit for this mp3 goes to marxists.org. If the casual listener on this website passes by this article looking for indie music and they only see the headline, they will think this is a completely underground band from Ohio. But no. It is simply a Russian Orchestra playing their nation’s national anthem.... Read more »

Neil Young – Dead Man

Kale Walch, Online Reviews Editor
March 12, 2012
Filed under Featured Songs

Neil Young accomplished a musical feat in the 90’s by making the soundtrack to the film “Dead Man” with only electric guitar; no vocals or any other instruments. This track is a microcosm of the entirety. Enjoy it, you.

Broken Social Scene – Anthems for a Seventeen Year Old Girl

Kale Walch, Online Reviews Editor
March 9, 2012
Filed under Featured Songs

This surf rock-ish band released a rather experimental album near the start of their career, placing this track as the crown jewel on the tiara of brilliance. Repetitive phrases serve as rhythm and melody, creating both a catchy hook and a driving beat. Studies show that seventeen year old boys also... Read more »

Iron and Wine – Naked as We Came

Kale Walch, Online Reviews Editor
March 8, 2012
Filed under Featured Songs

Do you ever wake up in the middle of the night wondering where the name Iron and Wine came from? Let me tell you. It was name of a diet supplement that Samuel Beam came across one day. That said, in this track, Beam muses about the futility of life, and how we leave the earth naked as we came. Nudity... Read more »

The Band Perry – All My Life

Kale Walch, Online Reviews Editor
March 7, 2012
Filed under Featured Songs

Yes, I may take some flak for putting a country song up on here, but darn it, Kimberly Perry’s voice is so gall-darn cute! The songwriting truly isn’t bad-a unique trait for modern country music. Try to enjoy it, it’ll be over soon.  

Calling You – Jevetta Steele

Kale Walch, Online Reviews Editor
March 5, 2012
Filed under Featured Songs

This scathingly beautiful track from the film Bagdad Café won an Academy Award for best original song back in ‘87. Jevetta’s haunting voice calls out from the sands of the Mojave, echoing off the dunes right to your computer.

Sondre Lerche – Dead Passengers

Kale Walch, Online Reviews Editor
February 27, 2012
Filed under Featured Songs

The Swedish artist’s first album made quite a splash when it first came out, and this track is perhaps the best on the album. Lerche’s superior ability to create pop hooks is made evident very early in this song.

Art Brut – Formed a Band

	Art Brut - Formed A Band
	Found at Formed A Band on KOhit.net

Kale Walch, Online Reviews Editor
February 23, 2012
Filed under Featured Songs

No, his voice is not ironic. Yes, it is his singing voice. Here, the brilliant Art Brut is seen reminiscing about his origins forming the band. Look at them, they formed a band.

Rogue Wave – California

Kale Walch, Online Reviews Editor
February 22, 2012
Filed under Featured Songs

This Californian Neo-Surf Rock group produces here an ironic track proclaiming their hatred for their homeland. They’re probably communists.

The Submarines – Just Like Honey

Kale Walch, Online Reviews Editor
February 21, 2012
Filed under Featured Songs

Oh man, this track is a real ear worm; it gets inside of your ear drum and never leaves. The chorus doesn't come until the end, but oh man, wait for it.  

Diapers

Kale Walch, Online Reviews Editor
February 15, 2012
Filed under The Curmudgeony Corner

The other day I was in line at the check-out lane at Cub when the old man in front of me bought 30 bottles of Ensure probiotic supplement and a large bottle of prune juice. I had a good chuckle as I bagged up my case of Ensure and adult diapers. He forgot to buy diapers. Amateur.

Glen Campbell – Wichita Lineman

Kale Walch, Online Reviews Editor
February 15, 2012
Filed under Featured Songs

If you watched the Grammys, you may have seen an old man with Alzheimer’s singing a song called Rhinestone Cowboy. Glen Campbell used to be one of the most brilliant songwriters alive, as seen in the ballad, “Wichita Lineman.”

Jamiroquai – Canned Heat

Kale Walch, Online Reviews Editor
February 14, 2012
Filed under Featured Songs

Famous for providing the background to Napoleon Dynamite's final dance, Jamiroquai has inspired the masses for years. Though you may have heard the famous chorus, I 'll bet not much money that you haven't heard the bridge. Check it out!

The Check Out Line

Kale Walch, Online Reviews Editor
February 14, 2012
Filed under The Curmudgeony Corner

The other day I was in line at the check-out lane at Cub when the old man in front of me bought 30 bottles of Ensure probiotic supplement and a large bottle of prune juice. I had a good chuckle as I bagged up my case of Ensure and adult diapers. He forgot to buy diapers. Amateur.

Purell

Kale Walch, Online Reviews Editor
February 13, 2012
Filed under The Curmudgeony Corner

Since Purell brand hand sanitizer came out several years ago, I always thought it was mislabeled. It should read: PAPER CUT LOCATER.

Seryn- We Will All Be Changed

Kale Walch, Online Reviews Editor
February 9, 2012
Filed under Featured Songs

This fresh folk hit from the Texan band “Seryn” changed the face of the genre when it dropped a few months ago. It’s like they took the best parts of every failed folk band and concentrated it into one perfect track.

Sacred Spirit – Yeha-Noha (Wishes of Happiness)

Kale Walch, Online Reviews Editor
February 7, 2012
Filed under Featured Songs

Oh man, oh boy. This is simply one of the best songs ever made. No kidding! It starts with a tear-jerking violin loop, then the chief of the tribe comes in and wishes you happiness. Brilliant!

Dawes- If You Let Me Be Your Anchor

Kale Walch, Online Reviews Editor
February 6, 2012
Filed under Featured Songs

Oh, Dawes. The anthem to the 21st century indie romance. Where love is all relative, and society is the enemy. I've sang this one in the shower many a time. Think about that.

Eels – Fresh Feeling

Kale Walch, Online Reviews Editor
February 3, 2012
Filed under Featured Songs

This buttery good piece of pop always makes me smile, especially the part about love. I like to pretend.

Radiohead-Nice Dream

Kale Walch, Online Reviews Editor
February 1, 2012
Filed under Featured Songs

Radiohead achieved near perfection near the start of their long career, and this gem is an excellent example. Watch for the gnarly guitar solo about 3 minutes in, alright?

Coldplay- Paradise

Kale Walch, Online Reviews Editor
January 30, 2012
Filed under Featured Songs

In this mainstream piece of noise, Coldplay tries purposefully to create a moneymaker, that is, something that doesn’t sound good, but people will buy because it’s cool. Don’t be cool, don’t listen to this nonsense.

Badly Drawn Boy- The Shining

Kale Walch, Online Reviews Editor
January 24, 2012
Filed under Featured Songs

This notoriously lazy singer/songwriter has produced many a flop in his career, but this song is one of few gems in his collection. Warm horns begin this sunny song, while calming vocals end it. There's even some French in there.

Moody Blues- Isn’t Life Strange

Kale Walch, Online Reviews Editor
January 20, 2012
Filed under Featured Songs

In this, perhaps the greatest song of the past 200 years, the Moody Blues reached their peak. This epic of a song speaks of seeing love from the outside. Whatever that means.

A Group of Well-Placed Monks Chanting-Skyrim Main Theme

Kale Walch, Online Reviews Editor
January 11, 2012
Filed under Featured Songs

It seems that in every epic situation in every movie or video game, a group of monks and an orchestra appear to set the tone. Skyrim is no exception.

Nintendo-Easton Kingdom

Kale Walch, Online Reviews Editor
January 10, 2012
Filed under Featured Songs

The masterminds at Nintendo Corporation crafted a game in the late 80’s that was surpassingly horrible. However, the musical 8-bit score was brilliant beyond the realm of possibility. This hit from World 3-1 rocked my world.

Cat Stevens- Where Do the Children Play

Kale Walch, Online Reviews Editor
January 9, 2012
Filed under Featured Songs

Cat speaks the truth in this, one of his greatest hits. In under 4 minutes he picks apart society, and destroys every argument supporting the war effort. I mean, what is life, and what is man, who blows away like dust? Yeah man...

Neutral Milk Hotel-Two-Headed Boy

Kale Walch, Online Reviews Editor
January 6, 2012
Filed under Featured Songs

Jeff Mangum’s signature voice lends brilliance to this track, which was apparently written about Anne Frank’s relationship with two different men. Not a two-headed boy.

Iron and Wine- Boy With a Coin

Kale Walch, Online Reviews Editor
January 4, 2012
Filed under Featured Songs

Samuel Beam, the name behind the mineral and spirit evolved over the years, beginning with simple acoustic medleys, and ending with synth filled landscapes. “Boy With a Coin” finds Beam somewhere in the middle. The strong, driving beat never ceases, and never lets go.

Boy With a Coin- Iron and Wine

Kale Walch, Online Reviews Editor
December 20, 2011
Filed under Featured Songs

Samuel Beam, the name behind the mineral and spirit evolved over the years, beginning with simple acoustic medleys, and ending with synth filled landscapes. “Boy With a Coin” finds Beam somewhere in the middle. The strong, driving beat never ceases, and never lets go.

The Drums-I Felt Stupid

Kale Walch, Online Reviews Editor
December 16, 2011
Filed under Featured Songs

In this blast from the past, we see the teenage angst and stupidity that defines society. Soak it up my friends.

The truth about stuffing

Kale Walch, Online Reviews Editor
December 7, 2011
Filed under Humor

Once a year, when the American people find it necessary to give thanks, cooked turkeys grace the tables of the common household. For many years, turkeys were hollow, devoid of meat and purpose. One day, a man felt the conviction to fill the empty avian with stuff, which after time, was cleverly named:... Read more »

The Stone Roses-Made of Stone

Kale Walch, Online Reviews Editor
November 30, 2011
Filed under Featured Songs

The Stone Roses produced smart, tight guitar pop near the end of the 80's, as seen in this track. Hook-filled pop such as this had never been seen before, nor will it be seen again.

Miles Davis-So What

Kale Walch, Online Reviews Editor
November 29, 2011
Filed under Featured Songs

This track from the album, "Kind of Blue" represents the peak of Jazz music; it is safe to say that if you don't like this track, you don't like Jazz music.

Kale Walch, Online Reviews Editor
November 28, 2011
Filed under Featured Songs

In this Japanese epic, love is compared to a "Lonely Rolling Star," going through the heavens, but always returning back. Be patient through the verses, because the chorus will pay off.

Kale Walch, Online Reviews Editor
November 22, 2011
Filed under Featured Songs

This classic from the Katamari video game series may be the happiest noise ever produced. Soaring orchestral melodies inspire the casual listener.

Akira Sasaki- Magic Beast Farm

Kale Walch, Online Reviews Editor
November 21, 2011
Filed under Featured Songs

This favorite from “Final Fantasy Tactics Advanced” will likely make you tear up, so bring a tissue or two. The violins mirror the despair of the incarcerated magic beasts.  

Pavement- Spit on a Stranger

Kale Walch, Online Reviews Editor
November 18, 2011
Filed under Featured Songs

Pavement, the crowning jewel of the 90's, provided the soundtrack to a changing generation. Their legacy lives on in the smash hit, "Spit on a Stranger."

Peter Wolf Crier- Crutch & Cane

Kale Walch, Online Reviews Editor
November 17, 2011
Filed under Featured Songs

Peter Wolf Crier summarizes life in this touchingly independent medley of lo-fi noise. And they're local!

Indie mood for music

Kale Walch, Online Reviews Editor
November 16, 2011
Filed under Humor

Indie music. To some: joke fodder. To others: a way of life. The mainstream folk dismiss it as noise that people who wear extra tight pants and canvas shoes listen to. And they are absolutely right. Science proves that tight pants can cut up to 70% of blood flow to the brain, which explains why indie... Read more »

Badly Drawn Boy-Something to Talk About

Kale Walch, Online Reviews Editor
November 15, 2011
Filed under Featured Songs

Crafting smart pop for over 10 years, Badly Drawn Boy’s brilliance is concentrated into this track. Light, upbeat melodies fill this track with joy.

The Penguin Cafe Orchestra- Air a Danser

Kale Walch, Online Reviews Editor
November 14, 2011
Filed under Featured Songs

The Penguin Cafe Orchestra has defied genre since the 70’s, as seen in this brilliant track. Light strings yield to acoustic guitar and carefully arranged piano medleys.

Dragonforce- Through the Fire and Flames

Kale Walch, Online Reviews Editor
November 10, 2011
Filed under Featured Songs

Herman Li’s guitar riffs are reminiscent to a blazing rain of embers that ignite the souls of thousands of millions of soldiers. Mark Hudson’s inspiring vocals remind me that: “We’re flying free, free from the thunderstorm.” Take that, meteorologists.

Sondre Lerche- Track You Down

Kale Walch, Online Reviews Editor
October 27, 2011
Filed under Featured Songs

What brilliance! Que brilliante! No matter what language it’s in, Lerche delivers more indie pop perfection here. In this span of time, he single handedly picks apart society and pieces it back together.

Groove Armada- Edge Hill

Kale Walch, Online Reviews Editor
October 26, 2011
Filed under Featured Songs

This electronic instrumental group had some success here and there, but they will never again produce something as brilliant as Edge Hill. Fast forward it to about 4:32, and prepare for musical perfection.

Patrick Park – Life is a Song

Kale Walch, Online Reviews Editor
October 25, 2011
Filed under Featured Songs

Park never ceases to impress with album after cynical album of acoustic gold. Here, he picks apart the fleeting nature of life. Tell me more Patrick, tell me more.

Royal Wood- In the Garden

Kale Walch, Online Reviews Editor
October 19, 2011
Filed under Featured Songs

Come on, we all know that indie music does bad things to your head over a long period of time. Ease your mind, kick your feet up, listen to some Royal Wood.

WOW, who says internet alter egos are bad?

Kale Walch, Online Reviews Editor
October 19, 2011
Filed under Humor

In real life, my physical appearance leaves something to be desired; although my hair is nice a couple of times a week, my meager frame does not inspire fear in the minds of anyone. But suddenly, after a short click and password entry later, I become a titan, a force to be feared: a level 85 Elven Death... Read more »

Buena Vista Social Club- Chan Chan

Kale Walch, Online Reviews Editor
September 30, 2011
Filed under Featured Songs

This group of Cuban folk all-stars got together one day, and crafted something beautiful, something brilliant. This track is recognized as the crown jewel on the crown of this album. And it’s not even en ingles. See what I did there?

Shadow People- Dr. Dog

Kale Walch, Online Reviews Editor
September 28, 2011
Filed under Featured Songs

Toby Leaman established a reputation as one of the chief indie music cynics. He does not disappoint here, in his muses on the futility of the modern life. Bring a box of tissues for this one.

James Morrison- I Won’t Let You Go

Kale Walch, Online Reviews Editor
September 27, 2011
Filed under Featured Songs

Morrison’s smoky voice suggests years of exposure to second hand smoke. He exploits this to the nth degree. This mainstream gem is so predictable, it's indie. This is the one for you.

Dave Brubeck- Take Five

Kale Walch, Online Reviews Editor
September 23, 2011
Filed under Featured Songs

Many tracks over time fade into memory, but some deserve to be remembered forever. This vintage hit changed jazz, and many other genres forever. Stay cool. Listen to jazz.

The Soft Moon- Total Decay

Kale Walch, Online Reviews Editor
September 20, 2011
Filed under Featured Songs

Never before have I so desired to smash something while listening to a song. Heavy beats and angry, rebellious choirs produce a noise similar to Pink Floyd’s “The Wall.” I felt like I walked in and out of a burnt down modern art museum upon the track’s close. How do you feel?

Atlas Sound- Te Amo

Kale Walch, Online Reviews Editor
September 19, 2011
Filed under Featured Songs

Atlas Sound continues to memorize his listeners with layers of piano and xylophone, and a hefty dose of synthesizer. Powerful lyrics lend a melancholy undertone to this mysterious track. And don’t forget- Te Amo is spanish. Indie music.

Bad Before Good — Day One

Kale Walch, Online Reviews Editor
September 13, 2011
Filed under Featured Songs

Day One offers an inspirational track of repitition, saying: "It's gotta get bad before it gets good." Thank you, Day One.

Fool For Love (SebastiAn Remix) — Das Pop

Kale Walch, Online Reviews Editor
September 9, 2011
Filed under Featured Songs

This artfully crafted remix truly concentrates the essence of the track, and blasts it back at you.

Wild World- Cat Stevens

Kale Walch, Online Reviews Editor
September 8, 2011
Filed under Featured Songs

This old favorite is even more relevant today than when Stevens first wrote it.

Grown Ocean — Fleet Foxes

Kale Walch
May 16, 2011
Filed under Featured Songs

What happened to the old, sunny Fleet Foxes you ask? Not much, but I think they discovered a drum set in the basement, which they now use. I think it adds something to their sound.. life, perhaps? The Fleet Foxes are back with rhythmic fury.

Baby Missiles — War on Drugs

Kale Walch
May 15, 2011
Filed under Featured Songs

The Californian folk-rockers strike again with more steering-wheel tapping road trip music. It is certainly an improvement from their last effort, “Wagonwheel Blues,” introducing sweeping strings and driving beats.

Knock knock…

Kale Walch, Staff Writer
May 12, 2011
Filed under Humor

There comes a time in every man’s life where he is humbled, where his peers turn away from him in anger and disappointment. It may be a delicate subject, but someone had to say it; yes, I write now about the “failed joke.” The failed joke is among the most character-building experiences that... Read more »

“So What” is “So Beautiful” and vice-versa

Kale Walch, Staff Writer
May 2, 2011
Filed under a&e featured, Music Reviews

Paul Simon re-invents himself yet again in his new album, “So Beautiful or So What,” giving new life to a lengthy 46 year-long career, and proving that a 70 year old man can still do something. Simon, born in 1941, teamed up with Art Garfunkel in 1965, cranking out such timeless hits as “Mrs.... Read more »

Broken Social Scene — Pacific Theme

Kale Walch
April 23, 2011
Filed under Featured Songs

This bright instrumental from the critically acclaimed indie/surf rock band serves as a nice introduction for those who may have not heard the band. Although not all of their songs are instrumentals, they all have the same high quality production value, and terrifically catchy refrains.

Forever In Armitron — BOAT

Kale Walch
April 22, 2011
Filed under Featured Songs

This band produces music from an age-old genre: Trying-to-imitate-The-Cure-rock. There’s nothing wrong with that, but is it too much to ask for originality once in awhile?

Ten-Twenty-Ten — Generationals

Kale Walch
April 21, 2011
Filed under Featured Songs

The Generationals here touch on various aspects of different genres without straying too far from their indie roots, or sounding too novel. Clever lyrics top off this tight track.

Guilty Girls — Buffalo Tom

Kale Walch
April 20, 2011
Filed under Featured Songs

Sometimes we all need some ear candy to take the edge off. You won’t find that here. Nope, there’s not a lot to be had from this track, perhaps a catchy guitar riff or two. Hey enjoy it, even though no one else will.

Two Way Monologue — Sondre Lerche

Kale Walch
April 10, 2011
Filed under Featured Songs

This Norwegian artist has here mastered the art of the Pop song. From the suspenseful build-up to the brilliant hook of the chorus, Lerche carefully orchestrates every note; this track feels like it took a whole career to produce. Please enjoy this brilliant track.

Ready for the Floor — Hot Chip (SOORBTV Remix)

Kale Walch
April 8, 2011
Filed under Featured Songs

This remixed single of the original hit, “Ready for the Floor” lends new life to an old track, completely changing the original version, making it into something better, smoother.

His Arm Has Grown Long — Alexander Tucker

Kale Walch
March 21, 2011
Filed under Featured Songs

The album cover of Tucker holding up a dead animal sums up his sound: A strange, other-worldy blend of orchestral and Celtic influences backing Tucker’s simple, rugged vocals. He may be a frightening man, but this track is nothing to fear.

Skeleton Key — Love Inks

Kale Walch
March 18, 2011
Filed under Featured Songs

Perhaps the closest thing this generation will get to Stevie Nicks, Love Inks’ lead singer Sherry LeBlanc delivers big time in this new track. LeBlanc manages to stay true to the Indie mould while still showcasing her impressive vocals, a feature often disregarded by the music world today.

Take It Easy — Surfer Blood (RAC Remix)

Kale Walch
March 16, 2011
Filed under Featured Songs

RAC took this surf rock staple and morphed it into something better. The brilliant mix of cowbell, synth and surf guitar results in a sunny sort of techno-rock, a combination of contrasting sounds that works well.

Night Nurse — Dean and Britta

Kale Walch
March 14, 2011
Filed under Featured Songs

An old, under-appreciated gem of a track that warms the soul, and is truly among the most beautiful I’ve heard. Sweeping strings and guitar work in sync to produce a most amazing effect. Everything works together for the benefit of the listener.

Yorke goes out on a branch with “The King of Limbs”

Kale Walch, Staff Writer
March 6, 2011
Filed under a&e featured, Music Reviews

Radiohead reinvents themselves yet again in their eighth studio album, “The King of Limbs,” producing a more beat-centric sound with hints of dubstep scattered throughout. The British band met in a boys-only boarding school, and formed “On a Friday” in 1985. At the request of their record... Read more »

This Lamb Sells Condos — Final Fantasy

Kale Walch
March 5, 2011
Filed under Featured Songs

Oh my, what an odd track. Brilliantly constructed, but strange indeed. Final Fantasy’s minimalist approach along with the subtle piano and layered vocals result in an overall fulfilling and rewarding experience. Enjoy the social commentary throughout.

People’s Partay — Danielson

Kale Walch
March 1, 2011
Filed under Featured Songs

Sure it sounds like a kids’ song, but it’s not, I tell you! With Indie music as it is these days, I don’t know anymore! Judge it for yourself.

A Case of You — James Blake (Joni Mitchell Cover)

Kale Walch
February 27, 2011
Filed under Featured Songs

James Blake’s honest voice invokes emotion, mostly pity and sadness. Which is a good thing. Such a voice is hard to come by these days. Enjoy it while he’s still alive.

“Kaputt” doesn’t go kaputt

Kale Walch, Staff Writer
February 26, 2011
Filed under a&e featured, Music Reviews

As long as humans have ears, pioneering artists will continue to produce new sounds for them. Destroyer does just this with their new album “Kaputt,” putting out a collection of pseudo-revolutionary sound to the tune of indie rock and smooth jazz. If the Psychedelic Furs and the guitarist from... Read more »

The World (Is Going Up in Flames) — Charles Bradley

Kale Walch
February 25, 2011
Filed under Featured Songs

This track takes the listener into an age long past, when soul flowed down the streets of America like a flood. The days of Al Greene, and other legends. Tightly arranged instrumentation tops off Bradley’s ample vocals.

Super Bowl ads objectify and offend

Kale Walch, staff writer
February 23, 2011
Filed under Opinions

Between the unclothed women, simulated sex, “cramming it in the boot,” and sexual jokes every other commercial, this year’s Super Bowl ads were overwhelming, in the least. Since its television premier in 1967, Super Bowl commercials have become an integral part of the great American celebration.... Read more »

RW — The Psychic Paramount

Kale Walch
February 23, 2011
Filed under Featured Songs

This bizarre, but funky instrumental by this New York trio may seem repetitive, but this may seem repetitive. See what I did there. Listen to it anyway, it’ll build character.

Last Night at the Jetty — Panda Bear

Kale Walch
February 21, 2011
Filed under Featured Songs

Noah Lennox here shows a slower and less dynamic side than previous albums, focusing more on creating and maintaining a mood throughout the track.

Lovers — Boxer

Kale Walch
February 18, 2011
Filed under Featured Songs

The build-up to the chorus in this song is rather long, but the wait is more than worth it. This one will have you singing along, a trait not often found in this sort of music.

Falling — El Ten Eleven

Kale Walch
February 16, 2011
Filed under Featured Songs

Today’s music is too often bogged down by lyrics. Song after song, singers try to tell a story or relay an emotion through the use of words. El Ten Eleven doesn’t need words; they evolved far beyond them. In their new track, Falling, they prove it. They replace vocals with layer upon layer of guitar... Read more »

The Field — Mason Jennings

Kale Walch
February 13, 2011
Filed under Featured Songs

Sure, it’s an old album, but Jennings here delivers a beautifully written story and some social commentary that defies age. This melancholy track may produce a tear, or two. But maybe a lot more, so get the Kleenex ready.

Your Free Spirit — Mesita

Kale Walch
February 10, 2011
Filed under Featured Songs

Very rare is it that a track sounds exactly like its title; this one sounds exactly like a free spirit, if it made noise, that is. Full of layers and echoes, Mesita has produced another granola-sounding track. And one more thing: cow bell.

Soak it Up — Houses

Kale Walch
February 7, 2011
Filed under Featured Songs

Oh boy, this one’s catchy. Key to this song is the aquatic-like tone with a submarine sound to keep the beat. It feels like an improved version of every pop song the 80’s produced. The effort that Houses put into this track is evident, from the vinyl-crackling sound to the tightly produced chorus,... Read more »

David — The Radio Dept.

Kale Walch
February 4, 2011
Filed under Featured Songs

The Radio Dept. achieved success in the past by producing upbeat, head-bobbing tracks. In their new track titled “David”, they may have achieved musical perfection. Within seconds, I found myself a victim to the slow, steady beat, nodding my head hypnotically. A moment later, during the smooth guitar... Read more »

Golden Haze — Wild Nothing

Kale Walch
February 1, 2011
Filed under Featured Songs

Aside from the vocals, this track (especially the guitars) sounds just like The Cure in his prime. Even if you’ve never experienced the Cure, you’ll enjoy this upbeat track.

World Sick — Broken Social Scene

Kale Walch
January 30, 2011
Filed under Featured Songs

For those who haven’t been lucky enough to listen to the Forgiveness Rock Record, please hear this. The tiny intricacies of this track demand a careful ear in order to fully realize the brilliance of it all.

BSM alum’s label, Afternoon Records, sees both sides

Kale Walch
January 28, 2011
Filed under Features

Studies show that the average teenager’s iPod has an estimated 800 stolen tracks on it. In this Internet age, musical piracy is almost universal; whether accidental or intentional, most Internet users have stolen at least one song while online. With these estimations, many assume that record labels... Read more »

Postcards From Italy — Beirut

Kale Walch
January 24, 2011
Filed under Featured Songs

This is perhaps Beirut’s most accessible and most popular track. The muted horn section signature to the Beirut sound appears throughout this track, and adds a distinctly vintage feel. If you’ve never tried out Beirut before, this is a great place to start.

The Horse and the Sistine Chapel — Daniel G. Harmann and the Trouble Starts

Kale Walch
January 21, 2011
Filed under Featured Songs

A short, sweet, piece of indie rock that is guaranteed to get your foot tapping, or your money back. Treat yourself to this one, it sounds good, feels good, and is shallow enough not to drown in.

Little Talks — Of Monsters and Men

Kale Walch
January 18, 2011
Filed under Featured Songs

This underexposed band sounds remarkably like a combination of Edward Sharpe, the girl from the XX, James Blunt, and the horn section from Beirut. For a second, I thought that this was a super-group that included all the above artists. Either way, this track sounded like the sort of song that should... Read more »

Whale — Yellow Ostrich

Kale Walch
January 15, 2011
Filed under Featured Songs

Yellow Ostrich acquired a name for himself producing a fresh blend of folk and chill-wave. This refreshing track begins with bright, layered vocals, and finishes with a sort of mellow guitar best described as satisfying. This smart, innovative track demands at least a second listen.

You’re Never Alone in New York — Mark Mallman (feat. Craig Finn)

Kale Walch
January 13, 2011
Filed under Featured Songs

Mark Mallman teamed up with Craig Finn, lead singer of the Hold Steady, to create this fast-paced epic of a song. The second half of the track features Finn’s deep, crooning voice layered with Mallman’s higher pitch. The result is a masterful combination of two different styles.

Tuareg Dancehall — Highlife

Kale Walch
January 11, 2011
Filed under Featured Songs

This track features strange layers of Arabian/American folk guitar and echoing vocals. The sort of song one would expect to hear in a middle-eastern dance-hall. Enjoy this exotic track.

A commercialist’s Christmas

Kale Walch
December 29, 2010
Filed under Opinions

Christmas today no longer celebrates the birth of Christ as it should; our capitalistic society has replaced Him with their gifts, small things exchanged in an attempt to create some peace amidst chaos. Retailers pounced on the opportunity and promise that Christmas brought, and today, the success... Read more »

Taylor Swift: my kryptonite

Kale Walch
December 16, 2010
Filed under Humor

Through the years, Taylor Swift has produced a worthy lot of albums. Worthy of being burned. Recently, Miss Swift spawned her newest abomination, her third one in fact. She calls these collections of noise “albums,” naming her new noise: “Speak Now.” Amidst the shallow lyrics of this new album... Read more »

BSM reaches out around the world through Kiva

Kale Walch
November 10, 2010
Filed under News

Loans from the BSM community have touched the lives of 177 people all around the world, including Laura, a fisherman from the Philippines; Veronika, a clothing vendor from Samoa; Agasef, a farmer from Azerbaijan; and Nazih, a water distributor from Lebanon. The BSM community knows Kiva well through... Read more »

Arcade Fire out indies themselves again

Kale Walch, Staff writer
October 18, 2010
Filed under A&E, a&e featured, Music Reviews

In their third album, “The Suburbs,” Arcade Fire has crafted much more than an album of smooth and beautiful sound; they created another piece of smart and cynical social commentary. Here, the audience sees the once young and optimistic Arcade Fire growing up. After Arcade Fire’s first and finest... Read more »

Magnetic Fields –– Papa was a Rodeo

Kale Walch
October 15, 2010
Filed under Featured Songs

Off of their 1999 album “69 Love Songs,” comes a long-forgotten gem from the “Magnetic Fields,” titled “Papa was a Rodeo.” Frontman Stephin Merritt, a brilliant singer/songwriter known for his deep, distinctly untrained voice, silently weaves a deep, melancholy love story that questions the... Read more »

Bostich + Fussible -– Centinela

Kale Walch
September 28, 2010
Filed under Featured Songs

Out of Tijuana, Mexico, comes fresh sound from the band “Bostich + Fussible.” This band produces a strange, but gnarly brand of music called “Nortec,” a combination of techno and traditional Mexican music. One stand out track was titled “Centinela.” I’d describe it, but I really want you... Read more »