The Look Back

Flight of the Concords – Business Time

I’m a big fan of the TV series that is currently running on HBO. I was at first a little leery about the premises but it has not disappointed. It is also a show I would not be surprised to see not renewed for a second season. Very funny but on the same plane as Arrested Development in terms of the humor and the lack of a laugh track. I’m a little confused if this EP has come out yet but if it has (or if it hasn’t go find the torrent) go get it. Only four songs, two being live recordings, and a “banter” track which is very funny and gives you a great taste for the shows humor. Sorry, I’ve spent this whole time describing the series and not the track. I would have posted “Robot Invasion” but it was one of the live recordings and not the best quality. This has a great hook though.

Blair – Mona Lisa

Valerie invited me to go see her at the Silver Lake Lounge a couple weeks ago but I wasn’t able to make it up there. The show got great reviews and a good reception from the hipster elite. (aka they actually stayed to listen to her instead of going home after the local bands play.*) She has a nice sound and a knack for nice song writing. The EP goes by much too quickly so I am eagerly awaiting the release of a full length after hearing this.

Charlotte Gainsbourg – The Operation

French singer/model/actress from France. Surprisingly I found this on Subterranean on the same night as I found the other stand out track “Falling Slowly” from a few weeks back. Very catchy song and something I could see gaining mass appeal. The rest of the album is very French and not something I would normally be that into. There must be a quota in France where if you release something 75% of it has to only appeal to the French audience.

Animal Collective – Fireworks

Even though this album (Strawberry Jam) isn’t scheduled to come out until September 19^th I’ve heard nothing but buzz for this song as “Song of the Year.” I’m not going to claim to be a HUGE Animal Collective fan as I found their last album (Feels) to be a daunting undertaking to fully comprehend. I gave this a listen with the rational being I would give it a few listens while at work and see if it stuck. It has, in a big way. This track is one of my favorites, along with “For Reverend Green.” It has the trademarked “ooo, ooo oooo ooooooo” in the background and the interesting pedal work from a group of guys who have more pedals in their live show than the Polyphonic Spree has band members.

Charlie Louvin – KnoXVIlle Girl (Featuring Will Oldham)

This week’s country song is brought to you by the remaining member of the Louvin Brothers. Charlie has put out a number of releases since his brother was killed in the 50’s. A rather unique album as on each song he is accompanied by a different contemporary indie rock vocalist/band member. This track being with Will Oldham aka Bonnie ‘Prince’ Billy. The subject of the song, guy meets girl, guy kills girl, guy tries to get rid of dead girl, mom finds out. The feel good song of the year!

*Credit Valerie email August 10^th, 2007.