Little Daylight: Name In Lights

You may remember Little Daylight for their remix of the Mowgli's 'San Francisco'. If not, remind yourself of that timeless tune conveniently right here in this blue lettering. Little Daylight is in more than the remix game however, and have some sparkling originals! One of these gems is the soft and lilting 'Name In Lights'. A great song, enhanced by chilled-out female vocals and a catchy refrain! Enjoy! Seriously beautiful! 

If you want a little bit of a different taste of this finely served track, avert your appetite towards Pacific Air's...airy remix, which is possessed of a great intro, and a beautiful bouncy backbeat during the chorus! Both songs are classics and worth a purchase (or at least a few genuine listens!). This one in particular has some really cool sections late in the song. Enjoy!

Chromeo: Night By Night (Manila Killa & Reusa Remix)

A funkified, dance-filled, smile inducing track if ever there was one! Manila Killa & Reusa turn this classic into something that I'll be playing night by night for many to come! 1:10, 2:37, magnifique! Enjoy this great groove! 

Royal Teeth: Wild

Indispensable and possessed of an impeccable and highly refined musical taste, Meghan Proulx has done it again! After introducing me to many new bands, she saved the best for last with Royal Teeth, whom instantly captured my attention. 

These guys are free and fun, heartfelt and tender, and really know how to put an awesome song together! 'Wild' is a stupendous tune and has the potential to get huge! Also they're giving it away for free on bandcamp in anticipation of their new LP! Click here and follow the instructions for a generous download! Enjoy this great find (with an equally cool video that plays with time and rewinding!) and enjoy your blessed Sunday before the week begins its relentless march once more! 

Gorilla Warfare Tactics: Zoology (Chill Hip-Hop)

It's been a minute (actually 56,160 minutes) since I last put up some hip hop on the blog, and this song tickled my fancy! Chill and enjoyable to listen to, this song has some of the coolest little horn parts in the background and just has a sick vibe with some snazzy lyricism. Enjoy and download below! 

The Neighbourhood: Alleyways

Enjoy black and white and wonderful music? Your application would be complete for joining The Neighbourhood! This lovely band (who has been featured before here) (and who I got to see live at Coachella!) had their new album come out this tuesday, and it is fantastic! If you liked what you heard earlier, you'll love the new songs, and should really check out the whole LP! What a few weeks! Born Ruffians last week, Phoenix, The Neighbourhood, and Youngblood Hawke this one, and Vampire Weekend next month! All rather exciting! 

'Alleyways' is as spooky and moody as their other stuff, and has some brilliant lyrics and an overall unique vibe. Enjoy!

Phoenix: Entertainment

After releasing their new album Bankrupt! yesterday, Phoenix has proved they can follow up Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix in the same magnificent rebirthing process as their mythical (but real, let's be honest) namesake bird. After seeing them live, I would trust these guys to write the soundtrack to my life. There was so much emotion and intensity dropping from every word Thomas Mars spoke, and they as a band were truly incredible.

'Entertainment' may have been out for a while now, but after hearing it live, there's simply no way you can miss it. It's the next '1901' (but hopefully without the complete saturation of car ads). So catchy, an amazing riff, and a huge part of their live show, as they played the real song, and then elongated the instrumental while Mars crowd surfed across hundreds of awestruck fans. This one's a winner, and by the time the first six seconds are past, you've better have already jumped up and run into the street to dance and have a jolly time!

I'm also really digging 'S.O.S. in Bel Air' and the title track, 'Bankrupt'. The whole album is certainly worth buying, and if you buy it on Amazon, you get the physical cd, an MP3 download of it immediately, AND a $1 song credit on the amazon MP3 store all for cheaper than just the MP3 album on iTunes! Good on you Amazon! There's a link for your purchasing pleasure here. While you're at it might as well pre-order Daft Punk's 'Random Access Memories' and Vampire Weekend's 'Modern Vampires of the City', eh, eh!

Coachella: One Hell of a Weekend

Am I still dreaming? This past weekend was hands down one of the most amazing and memorable experiences of my entire life. A veritable lifetime of wonder was condensed into three days of magic, majesty, and music. From the breathtaking venue itself--massive in scope and gargantuan in imagination--to the unbelievable lineup and unreal performances each and every artist put on, I can't even begin to describe the wealth of memories, pictures (I took a BP-oil-tanker full of pictures), and joy that this festival gave me. 

Each day we arrived at the venue soon after doors opened, and stayed for at the very least 12 hours straight of music! I feel like the luckiest human being alive, seeing an amazing 26 full sets by nearly all of my favorite bands. I'm still flabbergasted that I was feet from The Neighborhood, was serenaded by Of Monsters & Men, rocked with Local Natives, was humored and made to feel like family by Band Of Horses, jived and got down with my bad self with Jurassic 5, and finished off the night with Tegan & Sara. Phew. And that was all the first day! 

I lost my voice and pounds of bodily sweat with The Wombats, chuckled heartily at a blessedly brief few minutes of 2 Chainz, was pleasantly transported by Bat For Lashes, raged my face off, snagged a vuvuzela, got lazer money, and fought off Harlem Shaking Australians at Major Lazer, sang along to the crooning  Postal Service, jumped until my legs turned to jelly at Two Door Cinema Club, and had to rummage around on the crowded ground at my feet during Phoenix to find my dropped jaw. A day two to remember! 

When I was sure life couldn't get any better I started my morning with a multi-instrumental one man show of impressive proportions with Robert Delong, had all of expectations completely shattered when The Lumineers put on one of the most awesome shows I've ever seen and played on even after their mics were turned off, had the absolute time of my life at the surprisingly rowdy and unsurprisingly phenomenal Vampire Weekend show, and finished off my weekend with the craziest of light shows provided by Pretty Lights and a nearly 2-hour festival-ending set by Red Hot Chili Peppers. 

And those are just the big, recognizable names!!!!!!!! I could write for many more hours, deep into the night about how incredible Coachella was, but instead, I'll try to show you with some of my fuzzy, bouncy, annoying-because-I'm-singing, and low-def videos of it. Also, PLEASE check out any of the bands mentioned above if you haven't, because each and every one was incredible! 

Major Lazer was completely ridiculous! This is the smallest taste of an unreal experience. 

Of Monster & Men was off the chain! 

Local Natives were infinitely talented and effortlessly flawless! 

Phoenix's show was powerful, emotional, and beautiful. 

The Lumineers....WHHAAAAAAA?!? So good! 

And of course, what better way to end it than Vampire Weekend's relentless energy and wonderful songs!? 

My goodness. I feel so blessed that my amazing sister took me to this life changing festival, that the incredible Meghan Proulx battled through sickness, Australian men falling on her, and unbearable heat to share this experience with me, and that so much great music is made by and shared by so many inspirational and epic people. Here's to an unbelievable Coachella, and to many, many more to come!  

If you're a real trooper and are still reading, and haven't unliked, and blocked my blog altogether for putting up all this drivel, then here's an actual song for all your trouble...who knows, Daft Punk at Coachella next year? One can dream. 

Said The Whale: I Love You

Said the Whale's new song is upbeat, danceable, and wonderful. I love it. I also love all you faithful listeners and wanted to let you know I'll be absent from the blog until probably monday night because I will be at the one, the only, COACHELLA!!!!!!!!!! (there is one the week before, so I guess it's the two and only...) I'm hopeful these next few days will be some of the best of my entire life and will have ever so much music to share with you all afterwards! For now, enjoy this new song, and download it on their website here. So happy and positive, and a brilliant harbinger of what's to come from Said the Whale! The minute and a half mark is one of the best sing-alongs I've heard in a while! Much love, much music, and much joy! 

Empire of the Sun: Alive (Get Freaking Excited!)

Who's excited for some Ice on the Dune!!!?????!?!?!?! I know I am! With what is probably one of the greatest promo videos of all time, and with a single that more than matches it, can you say, "stoked!"? This song makes me feel alive. It has all the throbbing energy of old MGMT, the background vocals of an exuberant children's choir, and that certain...oddity? craziness? uniqueness? I think I'll go with zany brilliance that only Empire of the Sun possesses. Jam out wildly to this and for goodness sake cherish that feeling of being alive, it doesn't last forever! Look out for the new album this June, and enjoy! 

Oh, right, and here's that epic promo video. It's slow, but epic!

Hunter Hunted: Keep Together

Firstly, my thoughts go out to everyone affected by the tragedy in Boston today. Truly ghastly that such darkness could pervade an event that should be steeped only in joy. 

There were reports of runners finishing the marathon and not stopping as they ran to the hospital to donate blood to aid the victims. There are countless photos of volunteers and citizens running towards the explosions, ready to help and show compassion to their fellow human beings. This overwhelming care and concern for others is what will forever vanquish the minorities that act in hatred. Love and fellowship arise more widespread and more powerful than any anger or hatred, and that is what gives me hope. 

This song by Hunter Hunted asks that we all keep together and show a little love. Great vocals, lyrics, and a driving and powerful beat in the background that is addictive. I'm loving the harmonies between Dan Chang and Michael Garner, whose band name reflects how one moment your on top of the world, and the next at the bottom. Enjoy this great tune and show a little brotherhood and kindness! 

Finals may be tough everyone, but just keep together and muddle through and know summer is just around the corner!

New Navy: Zimbabwe (Indie)

A refreshing indie find! Light and airy riffs, darker and more mature lyrics, these guys have really impressed me within the first few seconds of all of their songs. It's late, I'm not articulating effectively, so I'll let New Navy steer their impressive aural vessel into your eardrums, and transport you to Zimbabwe, or wherever this stupendous song takes you! Check out more of these Aussie lads here. 

DJ Topsider: Out to Sea (Aestas Prope Est) [OneRepublic x Rundfunk]

Such addictive opening synths are still illegal in most countries. I hear North Korea can't handle them. The first 30 seconds really set a wonderful summer sunset mood. One Republic's lyrics break in and the song just builds, and builds, and builds until you find yourself floating aimlessly in the a sea of sound with no intention of returning to shore any time soon. I suggest headphones, a good attitude and willingness to live an excelsior life. Note: Excelsior lives can either be translated as existences full of "fine wood shavings, used for stuffing, packing, etc", or exemplified by striving "ever upward". Your choice. Enjoy this lovely track, check out the Coachella live stream here, which has been just magical so far, and have a refreshing and rejuvenating Sunday! 

And finally, if you've been cooped up in the library studying and haven't seen the light of day for an unhealthy span of time, it's probably time you took a break and joined the nearly 14 million people who have already watched the new PSY song since it was released less than a full day ago. It's fun, it's zany, it's super-sexual, and damn, if that crazy South Korean doesn't make the catchiest songs!

Rameses B: Dreaming (ft. Holly Drummond)

Of my many musical compasses, Keaton Brown is becoming the one with some of the strongest magnetism. He's been introducing me to killer songs from many genres, and this one is fire. Dreamlike, beua-dub-fully crafted, and with gorgeous female lyrics, this one will stay with you even after sleep. Amazingly intricate builds and one of the coolest breakdowns ever at 2:38, this song is sick, free, and magical. Listen and dream on! 

Con Bro Chill: Dance Thief (The Craziest Thing You've Seen In A While)

Con Bro Chill is...where do I start? According to Ask.com Con Bro Chill is, "Not only a party-hardy rave-rap band, but a clothing brand and pro lacrosse player's alter-ego as well" (Ask.com). Hey! MLA citations being relevant in my real life! Dreams do come true! 

These guys are the epitome of bro and I have no idea if they're being over the top on purpose and poking fun at the ridiculous LAX Bro mentality, or if they've embraced it whole-heartedly and really are this Fratty and wild. Either way, they have an energy that literally jumps off the screen and out of their sound (they've pioneered 3D sound technology...you have to see the video to understand) and are absolutely having more fun than anyone else at the party. Whatever this band is, they do have some talent, their songs are catchy and their videos...their videos are an acid trips acid trip. Either you guys are going to hate these guys ridiculousness or love it: I think it's the greatest thing I've seen in a long time! Enjoy!

First up: Dance Thief. This is a really, really, really, really good music video. This is the third youtube video I've ever favorited. That's saying something. The plot is brilliant, the filming is hi-def, the newscast interludes are hilarious, their outfits are legendary, and the whole concept is just flabbergasting. IF YOU WATCH NOTHING ELSE ON HERE, WATCH THIS ONE! News! 

Next up is 'Power Happy'. It lives up to it's name. Actually a really cool sound that I enjoy, this video has psychedelic trampolines, a party bus, cliff-jumping, wild drumming, effervescent mustaches, flamboyant rave clothing, dancing grandma's, and fanny-pack speakers. If that isn't something you're interested in watching, you've got to get out more! 

Their other videos aren't quite as groundbreaking and life-changing as these two, but still well worth watching if you like what you've seen! Click the links for more wildness! 'Partied Out' is a loco robot speaker fueled song with epic egg balloon suits that are too funny. 'Arena' is kind of stupid and sees Con Bro Chill jousting and fighting in ancient ruins but has it's moments. If you've gotten in way too deep and can't stop watching these guys wacky video's, here's an explanation of how to listen to their new album safely...you know, since it's in 3D and everything. 

Say what you will, this may be a low point, or one of my highest. You decide. Jeez Loise! 

Compson Sound: Wall Clocks (Sultan & Ned Shepard x Coldplay x Katy Perry x Ben E. King) (Mega-Mashup)

Time ticks ever onward, unstoppable and far too quickly. It's too early for my super nostalgic post about how fast this first year of college has flown by, but I think a tiny nostalgia session is in order. 

SAY WHAT?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!? I'm nearly 20? Since when? College, the institution and years of life that everything up to this point has been leading to is already slipping through my fingers like fleeting grains of sand? This is crazy. I don't really even know what to say. I'm sure if I pinch myself enough times I'll wake up from my daydream and be back in 7th grade science class, so please excuse me. 

...

...

Yah, I'm still here. I love the present and every new moment is precious and exciting, but damn son, does time fly. All we can do is make the best of it, live every day to the fullest, and of course stay up late into the night (but never too late) and find plenty of new music! Here's a fun little mashup that borders on too much Katy Perry, but manages to have such cool other parts that you're left with all your pretentious hipster-ness intact at the end of the song. Phew! Enjoy and snag a free download below! 

F Y F E: Lies

I'm on the edge of exhaustion with crazy end of the year projects and papers, so I'll keep this one short. F Y F E are awesome and this song is gorgeous. If you're not falling in love with it, skip ahead to 0:58. Trust me, the vocals thereafter are stunning and the song only gets better! I'd say "goodnight" but the song is called 'Lies' and I shall be sleeping only one hour tonight, so I shan't breach the posts namesake. Happy Tuesday! God damn...it's only tuesday. Sigh. Enjoy!

Youngblood Hawke: Forever (Springfest Headliners)

Yes, Redlands may be a teensy private liberal arts school that no-one has heard of. Yes, our yearly school-sponsored concert--Springfest--may not have huge names like Macklemore (actually, that was who we had last year, but that's beside the point) or Coldplay (I have my fingers crossed for next year...a boy can dream, can't he!?), but what they do have is a band with a ton of heart! 

If you've had opposable thumbs, internet access, and functioning ears, you've heard Youngblood Hawke's incredible smash hit 'We Come Running' and you were blown away by their indie pop sunshine and fervor. Heck, their music video (first blogged here) is the happiest, most wonderful thing to happen since waffles and ice cream! Watch below! 2:33 and on is epic! 

Was this band a one hit wonder? Could they possibly top their enthusiasm and charm? Well, it just so happens, seeing them mere feet away while they played an absolutely bonkers set makes one look back at their other songs and realize the gems therein! 'Forever' is thumpin', fun (fu') and quite sweet. A heartwarming ditty that seems to nearly capture the amazing weekend Meghan Proulx and I had, you need to listen to this one loudly and exuberantly, as Youngblood would want you to! Simon and Alice Katz--the two lead singers and husband and wife!--urge you to not wait forever, which is as long as I've been blabbering on at this point, so indulge your bad selves!  

And nothing beats the live performance...these guys could drum!

So my good people, remember that you're always possessed of young blood, accept that time flies fast as a hawk, and listen to music 'Forever'! 

Capital Cities: Safe & Sound (Tommie Sunshine & Live City Remix)

First off, the original video for this is legendary, and the horns in it...my god, they're sexy! The video shows amazing dancing from throughout history, alongside scenes of war...I'll let you decide which looks more fun and which is positively changing the world (I'll give you a hint, it's the dancing). They must have had so much fun finding all these dance videos! Enjoy! 

Tommie Sunshine (sounds like a swell chap) and Live City add their twist to the song and make it a little more danceable, a little more synthy, and really just do a fun loving job! Enjoy!

Porcupine Tree: Lazarus

Another old standby of mine, this song just invokes nostalgia. From the opening wispy sounds to the tragic but gorgeous clacking of a train fading wistfully into the distance at the end, this song produces a distinct mood and is certainly something to be listened to while staring out a rain spattered window, while walking down a moonlit beach as if you're in a Wes Anderson film, or while striding through a forest, light on your feet, touching and clinging to every tree you pass, looking off into the middle distance as if reminiscing about when you were a hipster fairy. So basically, an all-the-time song!

Whether this song awakens memories in you (just as Jesus awoke Lazarus from the sleep of death), or strikes a chord and creates some memories, its a great song and just slow and moody enough to make you feel something, but not overtly dark and depressing. When the 3:00 mark arrives...that's some powerful sh%$. Enjoy!

The Capsules: Across The Sky

A lovely little Wednesday track. The vocals are magical the whole way through, and evolve beautifully. If you're not falling in love with the song initially, skip ahead to 2:09, and you and The Capsules will be inseparable ever after. What a pleasant and soft interlude, which then springs back into a more driving beat at 3:13. The video for this is very cute, and is hands-down the most tender miniature-toy-robot-love-story I know of. Enjoy! 

7th Galaxy: Unexpected Consequences (Chill Trip-hop)

Shoutout to Keaton Brown for showing me not just this song, but a panoply of lovely music over the last few weeks! A lover of numerous styles, and just as eager--perhaps even more so--to share music with the world, Keaton has found some super sick stuff, and I hope more people begin to feel inclined to send me the music they're digging, I have absolutely NO authority musically, and your ears are just as entitled to their opinions as mine! SHARE, PLEASE! 

Keaton's dope find today is a beautiful trip-hop track written and composed by 7th Galaxy that borrows some soundbites from the ever-inspirational and oh-so-sampleable Alan Watts. This song is ultra relaxing, and honestly it's impossible not to get caught up in Alan Watt's rhythmic voice and profound words. Form a harmonic relationship with this song pronto! The first sample lasts until 1:05 then a dreamy soundscape transports you until Watts breaks in again at 4:07. This is really something beautiful. Enjoy and thanks again to Keaton Brown for the wonderful find! 

Rilo Kiley: Silver Lining

Here's a throwback to a while back! I was way into Rilo Kiley a few years ago, bought three of their albums in a matter of days, and listened to them so much I kind of got burnt out and haven't heard them in a long time. All that changed when I put my iPod on shuffle and heard three of their tracks which brought me back to why I liked them in the first place! 'Silver Lining' is tranquil, sweet, and lilting, which lulls you into a sense that Rilo Kiley is the same...If you listen to 'Portions For Foxes', or for that matter, most of their other stuff, you'll find that the silver lining is actually intertwined with some badass rockers with attitude! A very versatile group, and Jenny Lewis's voice...just awesome. Enjoy!

Here's the more lively 'Portions For Foxes'!

'A Better Son/Daughter' and 'More Adventurous' are also great tracks to check out! Happy April Fools!