Tag: alternative

Cynic Guru – Catastrophe

 ‘Progressive rock in a big way’, describes the extremely interesting Icelandic band Cynic Guru’s.  Just when you think you have their style figured out, they will change it-often in the same song.  A great example of this is 2005’s Catastrophe from their only long-player, Iceland.  Some might describe certain elements of Cynic Guru’s music as likened to Alice in Chains, and they wouldn’t be wrong.  They use many of the same constructs, minor keys, grunge guitars, etc., but they ultimately end up sounding like…

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Gotye – Somebody That I Used To Know (feat. Kimbra)

 I’ve been enthralled with the sound of Gotye (a.k.a., Wally De Backer) since he’s made it up top on the playlist for KCRW’s Eclectic 24 channel.  The late 2011 release from Gotye, Making Mirrors, is full of strange rhythms, found sounds, solid song-craft, elements of hip-hop, electronic music and much more.   Underneath all the musical craft, is a sense of humor that is laugh-out-loud funny.  Check out the bio from the Gotye web site for proof! Somebody That I…

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Everest – Let Go

 2010’s release by the band, Everest, On Approach, included this great song, Let Go. It is plaintive and driven with a relentless beat, syncopated melody and belies a story just beneath the surface.  Everest is currently working on completing their new album, which should be out later this Spring.  You can find a boat-load of information on Everest simply by visiting their web-site. There you will find links to all the usual suspects, (Facebook, MySpace, Twitter, etc.). If you haven’t heard of Everest, take time…

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The Spring Standards – Goodbye Midnight

 I saw The Spring Standards opening for Enter The Haggis in Omaha’s Holland Center club venue a little over a year ago.  They were absolutely awesome.  The band is almost schizophrenic, playing many instruments at once, bounding around the stage and interacting with the audience.  They were a blast to see live!  If you get the opportunity, take it!  Find out more about The Spring Standards on their web site and enjoy Goodbye Midnight!  (Source: https://www.youtube.com/) 

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Changing Modes – Cell To Cell

 Back in April 2010, I interviewed Wendy Griffiths of Changing Modes shortly after the release of their full-length Here.  The subsequent review of this release was posted on another blog. One of my favorite tracks is this video from the band.  Enjoy! And go to CD Baby and purchase the CD or tracks now.  (Source: https://www.youtube.com/) 

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