Showing posts with label brianne. Show all posts
Showing posts with label brianne. Show all posts
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Best of 2011 Staff Picks: Brianne





Favorite Album of 2011

Death Cab for Cutie - Codes and Keys: As a high schooler that lived and breathed Transatlanticism and Plans, I was stoked when I heard that Death Cab for Cutie was releasing a new album this year. And they surely didn't disappoint. Codes and Keys was on heavy rotation on my morning commutes and summer road trips with a sound perfect for the season. Actually, it's proven to be perfect for every season.

I've found that most people associate Death Cab's music with sadness, and those people will be surprised once they listen to the opening notes of lead track, "Home Is a Fire." It's certainly a pick-me-up from 2008's Narrow Stairs, feeling like an awakening from a deep sleep. No track showcases that better than "You Are A Tourist," the lead single, in which a jangly, slightly distorted riff marks every phrase. As always, the group experiments with a number of instrumentation throughout the album, from strings to different piano effects and even Gibbard's (or another band member's) own panting. It's basically delightful and rich candy for your ears from top to bottom.


Honorable Mentions:

Alexander Ebert - Alexander: Remember when Alexander Ebert was jumping around as lead singer of dance punk band Ima Robot? Yeah, you won't get any of that here. Alexander is more of an extension of Ebert's work with Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros and all sounds heard on this album were created by him. No seriously, it's all him. You wouldn't believe it if you heard it before this.


The Civil Wars - Barton Hollow: I've never considered myself a country fan, but the duo of Joy Williams and John Paul White have the power to be my gateway drug (at least to alternative forms of the genre). Barton Hollow is gorgeous, whether its bleeding sadness all over the place or belting out a down-home country diddy. The blend of their voices is beyond compare.


Favorite Song of 2011

"Shake It Out" by Florence + the Machine(Ceremonials): I know this album came out a little over a month ago, but once I heard this song I feel in love with Florence Welch all over again. Admittedly, I was scared she wouldn't be able to outdo 2009's Lungs and then this happened. The first time I heard it on 102.1 (naturally), I was smitten. It's a song that's very characteristic of the group, utilizing a lot of space by filling it with the sound of big percussion and Welch's powerhouse voice, yet brings something that feels more updated rather than a repeat from the last album. It's a "The Dog Days Are Over" 2.0 if you will.


Honorable Mentions:

"Lonely Boy" by The Black Keys(El Camino): Yup, I know this one literally just came out, but I honestly can't stop listening to it. I can't help doing the dance that accompanies it either. I blasted it in the car while waiting for the light at Sheridan and Millersport today and its awesome-ness scared the guy in the car next to me. It should usually be enjoyed with its video.



"Radio" by Raphael Saadiq(Stone Rollin'): I've been told that the kind of music I'm into can be categorized as "new music that sounds like old music," and this pick solidifies that. Raphael Saadiq can be a modern day Smokey Robinson when he slides into his falsetto, but on this one he's hard-hitting, employing the twelve-bar blues model to a track that forces you to dance.



Favorite Concert of 2011

Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros at Thursday in the Square (06/02/11): One of the last shows on a Thursday to actually be held in the square itself, this concert was the first I saw in Buffalo after graduating from college and I'm so glad it was. Though square concerts are notorious for gathering large drunken crowds that don't even know the band playing before them, none of that mattered to me as I watched this 10-piece band perform the songs that reminded me of senior year off their debut album, Up from Below. Ebert was exactly as I pictured he'd be on stage, completely calm aside from his moments of jubilant dance. He even got himself in the midst of the crowd while performing, making me actually wish I had made it down front in the mass of humanity. With ten band members on stage, you'd think it might be difficult to recreate the songs the same way they were on the album, but not for these guys. In my opinion, it was better, particularly the ending featuring an extended version of "Om Nashi Me" that continued to build and build till the group signed off for the night.



Brianne Galli
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A Modern Interpretation of Holiday Classics




As the holiday season approaches, many questions come to mind. What should I buy for my mom? Which outfit should my dog wear for the Christmas card? Which songs of todaybest characterize my favorite holiday film characters? When my mind starts to wander, this is what I, personally, think about. If Ralphie had an iPod on his walk to school, what would be his go-to jam? What would Kevin McCallister blast through his empty house if he were home alone today?

Naturally these classic characters wouldn't listen to just anything, they would choose tracks that might not make it on the radio, just like you and I. Here are some selections that I feel my favorite holiday characters would enjoy as the soundtrack to their day-to-day lives.

George Bailey (It's a Wonderful Life), "Lucky" by Radiohead


Poor George Bailey. If only he could just look on the bright side and realize that everything around him is more than enough to find happiness. Luckily for us - and for Clarence - Mr. Bailey had to take a journey through a parallel universe in which he was never born to discover that he has everything he needs, making for one inspiring movie filled with Christmas cheer. If George's story took place today, he'd likely be brooding about to the pennultimate track off OK Computer, a haunting melody that resolves to something beautiful in its swelling, wailing sound.

Like Bailey himself, "Lucky" wallows in its sadness, changing only when it builds up to the chorus. The verses alone could serve as the montage music for George's journey through a life without him, and the chorus almost begs for you to shout, "Merry Christmas you old Building and Loan!"


Jack Skellington (The Nightmare Before Christmas), "I Felt Free" by Circa Survive


Our friend Jack was a victim of the old Rolling Stones adage, "you can't always get what you want." Stuck in Halloweentown, feeling bored in prepping for the same holiday every year, he leaves the only world he's ever known in search of something more fulfilling. Natrually, he comes across Christmas Town where he, well, feels free. If Jack were to find a song today that captured his joy in "What's This?" it would be this track off Circa Survive's 2010 release, Blue Sky Noise.

Anthony Green sings, "Nothing new to say/Nothing to report 'cause the future happened yesterday," which, in my mind, exemplifies Jack's longing to return to Christmas where his spirit felt alive again. The holiday is his love interest, whose arms he "fell apart" in (think of how much he freaks out when he first discovers this new town), and his excitement peaks much like Green's vocals do at the top of his range.

Circa Survive - I Felt Free by dbpuncheshoes!

Scott Calvin (The Santa Clause), "How You Like Me Now? by The Heavy


The protagonist of this story is really on a roll. He's still feeling the effects of his divorce, his kid doesn't want to spend time with him, his Christmas dinner is at Denny's (where they've run out of everything including chocolate milk) and to top it off, he's scared the cookies out of Santa causing him to fall off the roof. Lucky for Scott, resolving this issue is as simple as slipping on the suit and letting the reindeer and Christmas magic do the rest. He's more than hesitant at first, refusing to believe he's the new Santa or the fact that he's been to the real North Pole, but over time he begins to embrace it, saving Christmas - and his family - from ruin.

As a toy designer and father in his pre-Santa days, Scott is evidently sub-par. Post-Santa, he's clearly improved his skills. If you happen to venture into the sequels, he's even a bit boastful about it. "How You Like Me Now?" has a strutting beat fit for someone that's high on life, which Scott seems to be when he fully commits to this whole Santa gig, and it's easy to imagine a more modern day Scott Calvin making his Christmas deliveries with a smirk while listening to this track.

The Heavy - How You Like Me Now by meganite

Ralphie (A Christmas Story), "Gold Guns Girls" by Metric


Back in the 1940's, things were fairly simple. The largest obstacle on your walk to school was the kid with yellow eyes (so help me God yellow eyes), the most exciting part of the week was the Little Orphan Annie radio show accompanied by a glass of Ovaltine, and asking for a Red Rider BB Gun with a compass in the stock and this thing which tells time seemed like a fairly normal request. That's all Ralphie really wanted, along with a cooler message to decode on his favorite radio show, and maybe something better than socks and a bunny suit as gifts. Come to think of it, Ralphie was actually pretty needy, which is why if he were a child in today's day and age, his theme song would be from Metric's 2009 release, Fantasties.

Despite the obvious reference to a gun in the song's title, Emily Haines sings about a guy who simply can't be satisfied. Based on what I've seen in the aisles of Target and Wal-Mart in the past month, I can safely say Ralphie would be on of those kids that screamed and cried until he got what he wanted. And when he did get it, he would probably react like the Nintendo 64 kid. Bottom line: it's never gonna be enough for Ralphie.

Metric - Gold Guns And Girls by Alexandre Diogo

Kevin McCallister (Home Alone 1 & 2), "They Never Got You" by Spoon


When you're five years old and watching the Home Alone movies for the first time ever, Kevin McCallister is your hero. He's the epitome of cool. This kid rarely listened to his parents (landing him on the lower bunk beneath the cousin that was notorious for wetting the bed) and knew how to booby trap a house better than any world-class spy. He even took on the city of New York - including Central Park at night - and made it out alive. That's right, the world just couldn't hold Kevin McCallister down.

This choice off Spoon's Gimme Fiction reminds me a lot of Kevin in its sound. It's light-hearted just like him. Even when he was facing the Sticky Bandits face-to-face he grimaced and pull the next trick out of his metaphorical hat. The quick beat also reminds me of Kevin seamlessly creeping around his trapped-out domains as well as his laugh that was sure to ensue once his victims were caught. And of course, they literally never got him. It might not scream, "Merry Christmas, ya filthy animal," but Spoon has inadvertently created Kevin McCallister in song.


Brianne Galli
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Tonight: Sister Sparrow & the Dirty Birds


Arleigh Kincheloe and her flock of Dirty Birds are ready to fill Nietzsche's with the sound of modern bluesy, funky soul tonight, featuring local openers Effective Resolution. Coming off a national tour that included spots at Gathering of the Vibes and Bear Creek, Kincheloe (Sister Sparrow) and her crew have been on the move since their self-titled debut on Modern Vintage Recordings in 2010, sharing the stage with notable names and making a name for themselves on the summer festival circuit.

It all started when Kincheloe began writing songs at her home in the Catskills that required a small orchestra behind her to truly achieve her goal. After recruiting her brother Jackson (who's known to play a mean harmonica) to join her, they turned to their California cousin Bram, an experienced jazz drummer, who helped fill out the nine-piece band with guitarist Sasha Brown, bassist Aidan Carroll, baritone saxophonist Johnny Butler, trombonist Ryan Snow, alto saxophonist J.J. Byars and trumpeter Phil Rodriguez.

The group's residency at NYC's Rockwood Music Hall coupled with their album helped to garner spots opening for The Black Keys, the Neville Brothers, as well as appearances at moe.down and the New Orleans JazzFest, and now they bring their unique sound to Buffalo. It's hard to put your finger on exactly what they remind you of, but their influence is definitely familiar and their sound is addicting. Kincheloe's gritty, fearless voice and stage presence alone are guaranteed to keep your eyes glued to the stage, not to mention the other eight musicians that flawlessly create an update to the blend of genres that started long before their time.

Tonight's show begins at 10 p.m. and doors open at 8 p.m. Tickets are $7.

Untie My Shoelaces - Sister Sparrow & The Dirty Birds by sistersparrow

Brianne Galli
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Tonight: Timber Timbre



It may be a cold, dreary night in Buffalo, but the Town Ballroom is offering a great night of music to keep you out of the cold. Montreal trio Timber Timbre brings its dark, retro-infused tunes to the venue tonight for a seated show, supporting the group's latest release, Creep On Creepin' On.

The newest album focuses on space within the music, which should make for an intriguing live performance given the appropriate acoustics. Releasing their first studio album in 2009, Taylor Kirk, Simon Trottier and Mika Posen have been categorized as a blues band, but doing so is selling them short. Whether or not their sound appeals to you, it's clear that this is a group of of fearless experimenters that take influence from wherever they see fit.

Four studio albums later, the group is still pushing the limits of their art house orchestrations and if you don't catch them tonight, you might miss them for awhile since no other shows are currently planned. Doors open tonight at 8 p.m. and tickets are $20.


Timber Timbre - Magic Arrow by Arts & Crafts

Brianne Galli
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Tonight: Acoustic Jam with Alex Foote and Andrew Reimers




If you're looking for a laid-back evening with local, seasonal foods and the sounds of acoustic guitar, head to Merge on Delaware Ave. where Alex Foote (Free Henry!) and Andrew Reimers (The Andrew J. Reimers Country-Punk Extravaganza) will hold an acoustic jam sesh.

Foote has been keeping busy with Free Henry!, considering the group just held their CD release party last night at Mr. Goodbar for new album Ethereal Gust. Featuring a collaboration with Buffalo artist DJ Cutler, the album highlights the band's flair for funk while showcasing the strengths of vocalists/guitarists Bob Buckley and Foote, as well as bassist Derek Presti and drummer Pat Mannella, as individuals.

Reimers and his crew of country-punk enthusiasts have been working since their formation last year to seamlessly merge the two genres into a cohesive and infectious sound, that draws in listeners who may not even be fans of either style. The group's live show is the best setting in which to hear them, and for those that have, an acoustic solo set by Reimers himself should be an interesting contrast.

Tonight's show begins at 9 p.m. at Merge, located at 439 Delaware Ave.

The Andrew J. Reimers Country-Punk Extravaganza! - Beggar's Pay by buffablog2

Brianne Galli
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Record Store Day Presents: The Black Friday Releases



Today marks one of the most horrifying events of the year. The official kick off to the holiday season, Black Friday is upon us, folks. As big box retailers gear up to open their doors at midnight, the Record Store Day (RSD) crew is fighting back. Rather than driving you into major retail store with low prices (in hopes that you'll buy more than the discounted items), artists are offering special, limited edition releases available in independent record stores starting on Black Friday.

Among this year's releases are The Black Keys' "Lonely Boy" on vinyl, as well as others from the likes of Ryan Adams, The Civil Wars, and even the Beatles and Bob Dylan. What's really great about the whole idea is the the RSD team is finding a way to stick it to the man more than once a year in choosing to celebrate the actual works themselves - in a format other than mp3 nonetheless - rather than the spirit of spending that often takes over the holiday season.

About 900 independent record stores are slated to celebrate RSD's Black Friday including stores in the UK, Canada, France, Germany and Holland, and luckily we'll have access to the releases in Buffalo as well at Record Theatre and Spiral Scratch. Even better than that, some stores have the option to sell the releases online so you won't have to fight the crowds to obtain what you're looking for.

The Black Friday releases aren't nearly as numerous as the yearly RSD releases as RSD usually generates about 300 different ones whereas Black Friday will see about 35. A complete listing of all that will be offered can be viewed on the RSD website (availability of the releases varies by store).

So if you're looking for a great way to rebel against the traditional Black Friday standards of retail gluttony, then browse the releases and get your hands on some excellent collector's items and support your local independent record store. You might even get some free swag (like a limited edition Flexi disc from The Kills when you buy their album Blood Pressures) for going against the grain.
Brianne Galli
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buffaBLOG's Turkey Trot Playlist



The Turkey Trot is an annual Buffalo tradition that has a different meaning for everyone. Some people roll out of bed, still hungover from the night before, lace on their nearest pair of sneakers and decide to run an 8K. Others have made this their goal race during which they will run their longest distance yet. Then there's people like me who take it extremely serious by trying to run it at a ridiculous pace while passing every costumed attendee with a scowl. Any way you decide to run the Turkey Trot, you're going to need a killer playlist to make it through those 4.96 miles amongst 13,000 other runners.

This being my third year running the Turkey Trot, I've finally managed to weed out the songs on my playlist that are useless and maintain the ones that help me power through Delaware Ave and make it to the Convention Center in time for a nap before the turkey eating commences. Below are some of my suggestions for your own playlist.

"Helena Beat" by Foster the People
Some may argue that "Pumped Up Kicks" is a better selection by this LA trio considering it actually encourages to run, but I always opt for this one mainly because of the opening. The intense drum beats in the beginning get me revved up to take race by the horns, and those beats continue it hit it hard throughout the song. If you're someone that needs to run to the beat of the music, this one's not for you, but I highly recommend it for your next dance party.

Helena Beat by Foster The People

"Sleepyhead" by Passion Pit
This selection makes the list for a couple of reasons. For one, it's a total "happy song" in that I can't help but smile while listening to that, and at the halfway point of an 8K, you're going to need something to make you smile and inspire you to keep on going. On top of that, lead singer Michael Angelakos happens to be from Buffalo, making his music great for running through our fine city. What really draws me to this song is the synth sound during the chorus, particularly at the 2:16 when it drops out and come whirring back in.

Passion Pit - Sleepyhead by rodeoclown

"The Cave" by Mumford and Sons
Mumford and Sons might seem like an odd choice for a running playlist, but "The Cave" has done wonders for me during all my races this year. Sure, it doesn't start out all that fast, but it doesn't take long to find its groove and slowly build up to a super passionate resolution that will surely have you increasing your pace, propelling you past all the runners that are nearly as serious as your are about this.


The Cave by Glassnotemusic

"Junior Kickstart" by The Go! Team
The Go! Team is known for having busy, layered songs that have an old school flair and this one is no exception. An instrumental choice, it's frenzied and playful and will certainly get you itching to run, kind of like the Pacman characters in its accompanying video. The song is the equivalent of drinking a Rockstar before running but is probably a much better option health-wise.



"Comin' Home" by Murder by Death
Extremely appropriate as you reach the finish line (though the entire race is in Buffalo, so I suppose you've been home the whole time you've been running), I highly recommend to get this song toward the end of your playlist. Another builder, right from the start you think, "Yup, this one's gonna be good" as the opening guitar riff begins under Adam Turla's whiskey-soaked voice. From there it only gets better when the cello kicks in as well as the percussion, and Turla starts going a bit crazy. I guarantee that this will have you sprinting past the Convention Center faster than you had hoped for.



These are but a few suggestions if you're looking to fill out that playlist for today's 9 a.m. start. Good luck to all and a Happy Thanksgiving!

Brianne Galli
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Artist Spotlight: Voodoo Friends



Voodoo Friends is comprised of one man, and that man is Karl Hohn, a Buffalo native who knows how to create a lot of sound for just one person. Creating "simple" pop music that sounds quite complex, Hohn's creations truly are soundscapes in which you can get lost, showcasing their creator's lifelong passion for music.

Before attending school at the Berklee College of Music, Hohn had written singer-songwriter guitar songs. Growing up with musical parents, he was never short on inspiration. "I was brought up on a really wide range - oldies, jazz, orchestral, Broadway show tunes. More or less anything but what was popular at the time," said Hohn. His own works don't give into popular trends either, leaning toward a longer form of electronic-based pop ear candy.

At Berklee, Hohn studied Music Synthesis which ultimately gave him the idea to base Voodoo Friends (a name chosen from an ad on a cardboard box in New York City's Garment District) out of his laptop. "My coursework revolved a lot around electronic production - synthesizers, sampling, editing and mix technique," explained Hohn. "The most valuable things I learned were in my composition classes. I got a much stronger grasp of form, structure, pacing - the basic shaping forces of music." Though he refers to his music as "simple songs about simple emotions," Hohn's skill shines through layers of synthesizers, ambient sounds and his own vocals that give the illusion of something much more complicated. What is clear is his perfectionist nature in aiming to achieve just the right sound.

Nothing in Voodoo Friends' songs seems spontaneous or unplanned, it's obvious that the works were made with a lot of care. "I'm a bit of a perfectionist, and I'll start something over or scrap it completely if it feels forced," said Hohn. He's been successful thus far in keeping it natural as his songs flow seamlessly without any hint of pretension or falsity. On "Dying Light," each sound feels as though it's been born from the previous one, while each still manages to catch your ear in a different way.Other tracks "Spinning Out" and "Little Things" do the same, particularly with Hohn's vocals that are processed differently for each song to match the feel.

"I still don't really consider myself a songwriter as much as an arranger," explains Hohn, who doesn't have one standard way of creating music. Sometimes it's one certain sample that begins his process, other times it's the piano or vocals that get him motivated. One thing we can be grateful for is his decision to remain in Buffalo rather than staying in Boston after Berklee or pursuing the musical dream somewhere like New York City. "I feel like the musicians here are really doing their own thing rather than following the same old buzzband trends," said Hohn. "And it's easier to find your way in - the scene is very inviting and accepting."

02 - Voodoo Friends - Dying Light by Mailmix

Brianne Galli
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Tonight: The Tins



Buffalo-based trio The Tins are set to revel in some hometown pride tonight as they take the stage at Medaille College. Comprised of Adam Putzer, Mike Santillo and Dave Muntner, the group has stayed relatively local in the past year or so, but have made big noise beyond Western New York since their debut EP was released in 2010.

The self-titled EP earned the group a spot at CMJ as well as some praise from across the pond as UK blog The Recommender recognized the band for its clean sound. Guitar, keyboards and drums come together to create an indie rock sound that's truly their own as The Tins take a slight influence from the past and update it for today. One track in particular that's garnered a good amount of hype is "The Green Room" that combines drawn-out twangy guitar with steady runs of keyboard arpeggios, complimented by the harmonies of Putzer and Santillo.

Doors for tonight's show open at 11 p.m.

The Tins - The Green Room by The Recommender

Brianne Galli
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Tonight: Dotsun Moon, Joywave, Early Attic, Lost Patrol



Soundlab presents a night of New York-based artists featuring Buffalo natives Dotsun Moon and Early Attic, as well as the Rochester-based Joywave and The Lost Patrol from downstate. Given the common thread of electronic music and the backgrounds of each act, it's a good way to get your dance on while supporting the local scene.

For those that lean toward electronic music, Dotsun Moon is your go-to group of the night. The five-piece constructs synth-y arrangements clearly influenced by the same genre of the eighties, accompanied by female vocals that create a dark, driving beat. A contrast to the electro outfit is Buffalo's Early Attic, an indie rock group with hints of electro-pop influence. Blending beach-y guitar riffs and simple vocals backed by synth, bass and drums, the fivesome is easy on the ears, prompting a buzzy, happy feel that's not too saccharin sweet.

Rochester's Joywave is like a more pop-centric Two Door Cinema Club, particularly when it comes to the sound of the guitar and drums. Though a bit more pop than the aforementioned indie rock group, Joywave's sound is easy for dancing and undeniably catchy. The veterans of tonight's roster, The Lost Patrol, come to us all the way from the downstate area where they've been playing music since 1998 with a revolving cast of characters. Singer Mollie Israel is similar to Neko Case or a shy Anna Calvi, accompanied by Stephen Masucci and Michael Williams, who all craft haunting wall-of-sound-like orchestrations.

Doors open tonight at 8 p.m. Tickets are $7.

I'm On To You by The Lost Patrol

Brianne Galli
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Know Your Opener: Jesse Sykes & the Sweet Hereafter



Babeville's Ninth Ward will be filled with the sounds of yesteryear as Seattle-based foursome Jesse Sykes and the Sweet Hereafter pass through the city, co-headlining with the Sadies. Though the group is creating music classified as psychedelic in the present day, don't expect to hear something akin to MGMT or Animal Collective. These four are purists and will transport you back to 1967.

Releasing its first full-length album in 2003 to critical acclaim, Jesse Sykes and the Sweet Hereafter takes us back to the hippie folk groups of Woodstock but with an electric edge. This year's tour supports the group's release from August, Marble Son, marking its fourth full-length release that has again impressed its audience by so accurately mimicking its predecessors. Sykes voice remains calm yet steadfast (like a female interpretation of Robert Plant at his more subdued moments) while the accompaniment of Phil Wandscher, Bill Herzog and Eric Eagle is a clear take on the iconic San Francisco sound.

Tonight's show begins at 8 p.m. with doors opening at 7 p.m. Tickets are $15.

Jesse Sykes & The Sweet Hereafter - Come To Mary by KARTEL

Brianne Galli
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Music in the Key of...Settling a Fight



If you're not into checking calendars to see what month it is, look no further than local television commercials to get your answer. The one thing I can't stand about November is the incessant campaign commercials that do little to sway my opinion and create more mudslinging than anyone cares to clean up. The more I see these commercials, the more I think of how successful a candidate who just promotes themselves would be in a race, rather than one that points outs its opponent's flaws. Those who side with me, there's a light at the end of the tunnel.

Election Day is tomorrow, November 8, meaning no more obnoxious commercials, no more pre-recorded calls during the day and no more coverage of the nasty wars of words surrounding the event. Let's all celebrate by taking a big, deep breath with some music to take the edge of our irritation. Below is a collection of songs to to get you to kiss and make up, or shake hands and start acting like adults again.

"Let's Call It Off" by Peter Bjorn and John
Let's start our reconciliation by first choosing to set aside our differences and not fight. Once the election is over, party lines will continue to divide our candidates, but hopefully they can start acting civil again and send their copywriters into time out for creating so much hype. These three Swedes know where it's at, letting bygones be bygones in saying, "We just have had enough of us," (yes, you and all of Western New York) and going about their lives. Below is the remix by mash up master Girl Talk.

Let's Call It Off (Girl Talk Remix) by kateblechinger

"Don't Gotta Work It Out" by Fitz and the Tantrums
Once we've decided to drop the argument, we can agree to disagree. True, this song is more suitable for a relationship on the rocks than politicians vying to lead the way, but it's fitting in the sense that these guys probably aren't ever going to see eye to eye and won't just cave into the other's side because they lost the election. The same applies to those riled up by choosing sides in the political debates this time of the month who are thinking of ditching all those opposed to them and making new friends within their own party lines (Ok, maybe a bit harsh and a bit too far). Don't get too carried away with it all, but don't compromise your own beliefs and let's just get along.

Fitz and the Tantrums - Don't Gotta Work it Out by TheTop22

"Float On" by Modest Mouse
One of the best songs to communicate the old adage, "S#@$ happens," Modest Mouse's first breakthrough track is perfect for walking away from a fight whether you come out the victor or the loser. There's always next year, next term, next whatever to try again and everything is going to be fine aside from a few injuries to your pride. Granted, the results of an election tend to have quite a bit of influence from that day forward, meaning that those not on the winning side will have a constant reminder of it every day, but don't worry, as Isaac Brock would say, "Good news will make it's way to all them plans."

Modest Mouse - Float On by Protooo

"Wake Up" by Arcade Fire
An election marks the dawning of a new political era, or so they say. Why else would so much effort be put into something if it wasn't going to cause some important change? What better way to ring in the new day (that glorious Wednesday after the election) than with Arcade Fire's appropriately named track off 2004's Funeral. This song really is a breath of fresh air that helps you start anew with an epic sound combining orchestral instruments with those characteristic of the rock genre in a way that makes you sit back in awe. If all else fails, perhaps this track can help you put your arguments and differences aside by making you forget them all together.


"Why Can't We Be Friends" by War
A simplistic classic that really just says it all. It's guaranteed to inspire smiles as well as bro hugs, maybe even a little head bobbing and some impromptu sing-alongs. Don't try to substitue this one with any of its covers, the original is the way to go whether your disagreement is political, personal or something ridiculous like why a band called War is singing about getting along. In the end, we're all better off being friends and ignoring the propaganda.


Brianne Galli
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Tonight: Song School Song Swap



Tonight marks the premiere of The Good Neighborhood's old-but-new-again monthly project, the Song School Song Swap Series. Featuring local artists telling the stories behind their music, the series takes place at the Sportsmen's Tavern on Amherst St. The series aims to put the spotlight on the music itself, breaking it down to solo performances rather than complete sets by full bands.

If you think you'll be sitting through four separate acoustic performances, think again as the night's format will be similar to a round robin, with each artist taking their turn to perform a song and tell their story before passing it on to the next. Having experienced this format myself at ASCAP's I Create Music Expo (where Buffalo's own John Rzeznik took part), I can say that it makes a world of difference. Rather than each artist being isolated, they naturally have small discussions between each performance in which common ground is found among styles that may seem unrelated.

The opening night of the monthly series features Brandon Barry and Joe Donohue (both of The Albrights and Erie Lackawanna Railroad), and Katie Panfil (Stone Row, Erie Lackawanna Railroad) and Andrew Reimers, both of the Andrew J. Reimers Country-Punk Extravaganza. Considering the open-mindedness of the four artists, I'm sure the stories told will be eye-opening, innovative and humorous as the four actually know each other. If that's not enough to entice you to check it out, the event also benefits Music is Art with an instrument drive and raffle featured at each month's installment. With local artists supporting a local not-for-profit in a local revived neighborhood, it doesn't get much more Buffalo than this.

The showcase begins tonight at 7 p.m. with a $5 cover at the door.

The Andrew J. Reimers Country-Punk Extravaganza! - Beggar's Pay by buffablog2

Brianne Galli
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buffaBLOG Halloween Playlist



We've all been to the Halloween parties that try a little too hard. Fog machines that hardly cover half the room, more fake spider webs that you can ever imagine cleaning up and the same tired playlist of "Thriller" and the "Monster Mash." Sure you could go along with a playlist of the latest Top 40 hits that can be heard at least ten times a day on the radio, but why not shake things up with some creepy music that wasn't specifically made to be played for such an occasion. Here are some of my picks to keep your playlist interesting while keeping the mood macabre.

"Moon" by Little People
The moon itself is definitely a Halloween icon considering it's usually out when all the festivities begin. It also marks the time of night when all the creepy creatures of Halloween are allowed to make an appearance. This laid-back track of a one-man-band distorting a basic piano melody acts as a good entrance piece for Halloween with its mysterious sound that gives you a feeling of unease for no apparent reason.

"Terrible Things" by April Smith and the Great Picture Show
It's not only the content of this song that gives an air of suspicion, it's the sound of the organ combined with the jazz beat that create what feels like an old-time murder mystery party. Not to mention April Smith's vocals clearly imply that she's up to know good, playing the dual personality of coy/innocent and diabolical villain. Add in the dark humored video for the song that shows Smith going about her daily business while killing people, and you're got a Halloween crowd pleaser.

"Also Frightened" by Animal Collective
This three-piece has a knack for making music that's mind blowing enough to make you feel like you're going crazy, put nothing really solidifies that quite like this one off 2009's Merriweather Post Pavillion. The sounds effects of dripping make you feel as though you've entered a cave to some parallel universe of universe that will waltz you into madness with a rhythmic pattern that's not the easiest to follow. When they ask, "are you also frightened?" I generally feel compelled to reply, "yes, yes I am."

"This Place is a Prison" by The Postal Service
Ok, this one might be a bit of a downer for a Halloween party, but it will certainly do to create a creepy feel. The murky bass that seeps through each phrase with very little accompaniment too it makes you feel abandoned, which is scary itself, but Ben Gibbard rubs salt in the wound by reminding you that you're alone in a prison-like place with people that aren't your friends. Oh yeah, and apparently it's not an open bar.


"Girl With One Eye" by Florence and the Machine
It's hard to deny Florence Welch's vocal talents that are haunting on their own, but add to that a woman who's looking for vengeance and you've got horror story gold. This story puts Welch against a female nemesis who has apparently wronged her, causing Welch to stalk her and literally force the girl to sleep with one eye open. Moral of the story, don't cross Florence Welch otherwise you might lose some body parts....


"Sail" by AWOLNATION
There's something extremely catchy about this song, between its calm, minimalist instrumentation and Aaron Bruno's intense yell singing. It's easy to fall into groove that almost feels lazy. The first time I heard it reminded me of walking through some sort of industrial haunted house, the intro gets you all hyped up and the beginning of each phrase marks something new popping out at you, then it backs off to let you regain your composure before scaring you again. The song itself may not be terrifying, but with the proper setting, its beat is perfect for a good scare.


"The Black Spot" by Murder by Death
The title of this choice is generally associated with pirates and, let's face it, much like sparkly vampires, pirate costumes are a bit overdone. However, this five-piece from Indiana uses the term in a commonplace situation of betrayal. Sarah Balliet's cello is the star of this piece as it's responsible for the haunting feel of the whole thing. It crescendos in and out like a wailing ghost against Adam Turla's dissonant long notes in a way that sends shivers up your spine.

"My Car is Haunted" by Royal Bangs
Perhaps this one's a little too easy given its title and the fact that it doesn't sound creepy in the least, but any good party playlist needs a little variety. Plus what's more scary than your car tapedeck eating your tapes? There's also mention of a "ghost computer chirping mournful beats," that's enough to set this trio from Tennessee on the run. I think they've got a larger issue than just a haunted car...

"Nail in My Coffin" by The Kills
Alison Mosshart and Jamie Hince's 2011 release Blood Pressure is a dark natured work that still manages to give you the itch to dance, and this choice is no exception. Another uptempo choice for the playlist, this one will encourage guests to dance while still maintaining your creepy theme. The lyrics are up for interpretation, but it really comes down to Mosshart fighting off someone that's trying to finish her either in the Mortal Kombat sense or in a figurative one. In my opinion, that's the makings of a scene from a zombie movie in which case this song could set the tone for some serious zombie ass-kicking.

"The Broken Places" by Moby
Moby's newest release, Destroyed, was made to be listened to alone at night in a big city as per the suggestion of the musician itself. As someone who's done this, I can honestly say it was creepy. Mostly known for dance music, Moby goes in a different direction here, particularly with this ambient piece that makes me feel like I'm stranded in a graveyard rather than a city. It's the hollowness of the instrumentation that makes me feel that way, yet it still makes me bob my head. It might only seem creepy if you're looking too far into it, but either way it feels Halloween-esque and fits in well with a playlist for the holiday.

The Broken Places by thelittleidiot

Brianne Galli
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Tonight: ANR



Florida natives ANR will be playing at Mohawk Place tonight as part of their fall tour that kicked off earlier this month. The duo of Brian Robertson and Michael-John Hancock have been going non-stop since their debut album Stay Kids was released in March 2011, following it up with a tour through the UK, a late summer run through North America and three spots at CMJ Marathon. It's safe to say these are artists that like to stay busy.

A worthy addition to the new psychedelic sound, ANR got its start as Awesome New Republic putting out self-released tracks and gaining some buzz from acts like Gang Gang Dance and Animal Collective. Since abbreviating the name, the group has refined its sound, carefully drenching it in synths and leaving plenty of space for Animal Collective-esque echoes. The title track of this year's release has been remixed by both Millionyoung and Memory Tapes and is appropriately accompanied by a video featuring children going to town on the group's instruments and running around with streamers and balloons while Hancock sings, "stay young."

Doors open at 7 p.m. tonight, tickets are $10.

ANR - Stay Kids by kalisana

Brianne Galli
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Tonight: Unknown Mortal Orchestra



Mohawk Place will be buzzing with the lo-fi fuzz of Unknown Mortal Orchestra tonight as the group makes a stop in Buffalo with openers Gauntlet Hair and the birD day. Considering the group is touring behind its self-titled debut LP, expect to hear favorites like "Ffunny Ffriends" and "How Can You Luv Me?" that helped launch Unknown Mortal Orchestra from tracks on a page to a legitimate band on tour.

Anchored by New Zealand native Ruban Nielson who is joined by bassist/producer Jake Portrait and drummer Julien Ehrich, Unknown Mortal Orchestra got its start when Nielson moved to Portland with his band Mint Chicks only to stray from the group to create his own side project. What started as a one-man bandcamp page has grown into a three-piece playing live shows. The group's first full-length, Unknown Mortal Orchestra, was released in June 2011 gaining hype from Pitchfork, Das Racist and even ?uestlove for its infectiously catchy throwback tracks. Since the release, the band has toured with the likes of Yuck and Toro Y Moi across North America with plans to travel to the UK and Europe beginning in November.

Tonight's show starts at 7 p.m. when the doors open. Tickets are $13.

Unknown Mortal Orchestra-FFunny Frendss by josiahmfilm

Brianne Galli
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Music in the Key of...An Autumn Day


With temperatures dropping to the point where you can see your breath and a foreboding forecast of light snow by the end of the week, it's sometimes hard to remember that it's still the beautiful season of autumn in Buffalo. The leaves have fallen off the trees, the air is crisp and many have turned to the comfort of over-sized sweaters to keep in the warmth, all that's missing is a soundtrack to help us find that sense of calm and relaxation associated with the season. Though it's three years old, A Fine Frenzy's One Cell in the Sea never gets old as my soundtrack to my favorite season.

The starting track, "Come On, Come Out," mimics opening the door to the outside where an array of rich colors can be seen from the trees to the ground. The combination of piano and the voice of Alison Sudol (who effortlessly goes from powerful and rounded to subdued and soft) creates a feeling of warmth that always seems to be present despite the dropping temperatures this time of year. If that isn't enough imagery for you, think of how much the song buildup to the chorus resembles the autumn breeze picking up the leaves and whirling them around.


01-a fine frenzy-come on come out by virguss

For some reason, more so in autumn than winter I get the urge to curl up under a big blanket with a cup of hot coffee or hot cider while reading a book or doing a crossword puzzle. Such an occasion calls for my favorite track on the album, "You Picked Me," a waltzing number that makes you smile with its sweet lyrics and whimsical soundscapes. Unfortunately, the most appropriate line of the song for the autumn that Buffalo's been having is, "So softly, rain against the windows," but my favorite part by far is the chorus. Sudol sings, "Like an apple on a tree, hiding out behind the leaves, I was difficult to reach, but you picked me." Not only perfect for lazing on your couch for the day, the song has the ideal tempo for walking through your neighborhood, or perhaps Delaware Park when the ground is covered in red and gold.


A Fine Frenzy - You Picked Me by sleepymornings

Though not placed at the end of the album, "Ashes and Wine" represents the passing of autumn in my mind. Accompanied mainly by piano and strings, the orchestration is a bit more bare than the others, with the piano playing the part of the first snowfall of the season, starting slowing then falling more frequently and faster. It's also heartbreaking in its content, as Sudol debates whether or not to hold on to a love that's let her go, similar to how I personally feel as the cold grows bitter and the leaves disappear and make way for snowdrifts.


A Fine Frenzy - Ashes And Wine ____♥' by ~ P e d r o

Above are just a few highlights from the 15 tracks that make up One Cell in the Sea. It's a carefully constructed work that is best listened to from start to finish rather than in fragments, with each song acting as the perfect introduction to the next.

Brianne Galli
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Tonight: The Albrights



After a brief hiatus from rock music to take part in MusicalFare Theatre's production of Oliver!, The Albrights are returning to their day job as a four-piece Blues/Americana band with a charity concert at the Pearl Street Brewery. The group teams up with The Good Neighborhood while supporting Drop-In Nation Education who will receive a portion of the door proceeds.

Drop-In Nation Education creates programs for out-of-school youth as well as underemployed and unemployed adults to continue their education, and Albright members Matthew Crane and Brandon Barry are no strangers to the cause having worked with Drop-In co-founder Stacey Watson while the two were part of Americorps. Completed by Joseph Donohue III and Aaron Odden, this isn't the group's first rodeo when it comes to charitable acts holding with their album release show this past June benefitting the Give for Greatness campaign, and signing on to be part of Buffalo First!, and initiative to support local businesses and preserve the community of Buffalo.

Though the group's influences span a number of genres its roots are clear, even taking its name from our city's iconic Albright-Knox Art Gallery. After releasing their latest album Ask, Tell in June 2011, the Albrights experimented with theatre in contributing to MusicalFare's Dust-bowl era take on the Charles Dickens' classic, Oliver! With Donohue at the helm as the production's Musical Director, the group was booked from September through October and is now ready to return to the rock stage.

Tonight's all ages show begins at 9:30 p.m. and has a $4 cover charge.

01 Hard Times by buzzrecords

Brianne Galli
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Tonight: Memoryhouse



Before heading to New York City for a sleepless romp through CMJ Marathon, Toronto twosome Memoryhouse will stop in Buffalo to play Soundlab in support of their September 2011 release, The Years. A re-recorded and remixed version of the duo’s original release in February 2010, the album will finally be available on CD or vinyl and comes with two new tracks, “Modern, Normal” and “Quiet America.”
Founded by Evan Abeele and Denise Nouvion, Memoryhouse aims to blend sounds and ideas from today and the past both visually and musically, creating dreamy, echoing soundscapes that seem to be drenched in a vintage tone. “Lately (Deuxième)" features Nouvion’s barely discernible vocals against a sampling of Jon Brion’s “Phone Call,” (the original featuring a hazy piano playing the sample). Tonight’s show begins at 9:00 p.m. and tickets are $10.

Memoryhouse: 'Lately (Deuxième)' by theharro



Brianne Galli
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Artist Spotlight: Andrew J. Reimers Country-Punk Extravaganza!



Listening to the demo of The Andrew J. Reimers Country-Punk Extravaganza gives you a good idea of what the group is all about. It’s a fusion of country and punk that isn’t quite “southern rock” and isn’t wholeheartedly “rockabilly,” but rather lead singer/guitarist Andrew J. Reimers’ own recipe for this genre-bending fusion. But listening is only half of the promised “extravaganza.”

Seeing the band perform live really solidifies their personality as the five members create this specialized sound right before you. Comprised of Reimers, bassist Kevin Lowney, drummer Josh Mullin, lead guitarist Eric Rovner and violinist Katie Panfil, the group balances the two genres well, never allowing you to put them in just one box. Just when you’re ready to dismiss them as a country band, Rovner will come in with guitar solo that’s pure rock. Reimers’ vocals do the same, drenched in a southern twang that’s also gritty like a 90’s alternative rocker.

Forming in 2010, the Buffalo natives have released a five-song demo that can be heard on their Reverbnation page and is available at their live shows. “Beggar’s Pay,” the first song on the demo is a great introduction to the band’s sound, while “Katie’s Song” showcases Panfil’s vocals while delving into a more traditional country style. Other tracks like "Ten Degrees on New Year's Eve" slow the celebration down a bit but maintain the intensity the group is sure to be known for.

Not a country fan? The Andrew J. Reimers Country-Punk Extravaganza is still worth a listen. There’s enough variety within the music to find something with which you can relate. If you’re still not convinced, then see them live where the blend really comes together and their hard work comes to life.

The Andrew J. Reimers Country-Punk Extravaganza! - Beggar's Pay by buffablog2

Brianne Galli
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