Entries from February 2009

Blitzen Trapper: Behind the Interview

February 28, 2009 · Leave a Comment

The Blitzen Trapper talk we posted yesterday was our first foray into the world of interviewing. It was an interesting trial run for something we hope to do more often. Here’s a brief rundown of how this actually came about:

Never having interviewed anyone in our lives, both of us were hesitant and nervous to approach the band after getting into the Bug Jar. (Getting into the bar, by the way, was slightly unnerving. We had only briefly spoken to Blitzen Trapper’s management, who told us to just talk to them at the merch table before the show, and that we’d be on the list. We were not on the list. We were on a separate scrap of paper scribbled as Andy + 1.) After much looking around, hesitation and some liquid courage, Dave went up to Brian who was manning the t-shirts and CDs, introduced himself and explained the situation. After some discussion of which member(s) of the band we wanted to talk to, we decided on Brian himself, who then needed to find someone to take his spot, which ended up being Erik, once his game of Big Buck Hunter was finished.

With the merch table newly manned, we looked for a place to sit, and settled on the table where Marty and Eric were already sitting. With only a few pre-planned questions and a notepad, we just went for it, fumbling our way around, trying to establish a rapport (which was accomplished thanks to Lil’ Wayne’s inability to perform a single show in Rochester despite three tries.)

And when we wrapped things up, the band asked how long we’d been writing the blog (nearly a month now), how many interviews we’d done (none) and how many shows we’d reviewed (none). They seemed surprised, but gave us positive feedback. And we want to thank them for being accommodating. Maybe next time we’ll use a tape recorder.

Badly Drawn Boy – Something To Talk About (mp3) from the About a Boy soundtrack

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Categories: Music · The General Specific
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Blitzen Trapper: February 24, 2009 – Bug Jar, Rochester NY

February 27, 2009 · 1 Comment

Montreal on a Sunday night in February is less calm than one would imagine – as evidenced by the breaking of Blitzen Trapper’s tour van window.  “We spent the day cleaning out the glass” the band’s drummer Brian remarks.  And while it’s not exactly the ideal way to spend an off day, it’s undoubtedly better to drive the 330 miles from Montreal to the Bug Jar in Rochester, NY without broken glass underfoot.  “We’re getting it replaced tomorrow.”

Nearly a week into their tour, the band seems undeterred by the size of the Bug Jar, which lead singer Eric aptly describes as “…the smallest place we’ve played” while Brian and Marty – the band’s guitarist – nod in agreement.  For a band with an album in the Top 50, and a single in the Top 5 of Rolling Stone’s 2008 End-of-the-Year lists, a setting with a capacity of 200 is less than ideal.  Even the stage will be overcrowded, comfortably holding two less than the band’s membership of 6.  But it’s a welcomed change from being a supporting act, where playing time can be severely limited.

“A lot of times,” Marty continues, “venues have curfews, closing times.  In a place like this, we could probably play as long as we want to, as long as people keep drinking.”  And why wouldn’t people keep drinking?  The band caters to all comers, blending wheezing harmonicas, the melodica, and two keyboards into their alt-country rock.

On Furr, their genre-bending, fourth full-length release (and first for Sub Pop), the band is at their most accessible and most focused.  And while that could be attributed to a label release of the album, it’s really more of an indication of the band’s ability and continued maturity.  A few of the band members have known each other since high school, and they have “always enjoyed playing Eric’s songs” states Brian.  The process has remained constant throughout the band’s time together.  “Eric brings us a song, and we help him with the live arrangement.”

But why was there such a quick turnaround between albums?  Field Rexx, the band’s second album, was released nearly three years before Wild Mountain Nation, and Furr only a year after that.  Marty explains that the band actually had “…a couple albums ready in between, but nothing we felt was commercially viable.  Once Wild Mountain Nation was ready, we shopped it around and came close to releasing it before it fell through. Seeing how close it came, we decided to put it out ourselves, and we worked really hard at it.”

“Sub Pop was interested in Wild Mountain Nation.  We actually ended up signing with Sub Pop before Wild Mountain Nation (was released)” Eric continues, “but not for that album; we own that one ourselves.”

The band appreciates the fact that Sub Pop, for the most part, lets the band do its own thing.  “We give them songs; they give us money.” Eric says matter-of-factly.  “It’s not a lot of money, but it’s a lot for us and what we need to do, and they stay pretty hands off.”

Marty agrees.  “In larger markets, like New York, Chicago, they’ll buy us food, which we like.”

Tonight, however, the band has had their food catered by a local natural foods store, which the crowd finds out at the end of the show.  The band has just about finished powering through 90 minutes of alt-rock, alt-country, nu-folk, and a million thoughts of Bob Dylan.  There’s a taper toward the back of the room, someone else is writing down each song.  Along the wall are expectant fans, singing along loudly since no one can hear them over the crush of sound; someone toward the back of the room flicks his lighter on during “Not Your Lover.”  It’s a rock show; it’s raucous and straightforward, and the band seems to enjoy themselves, departing after an awkward encore requiring the band to exit through the crowd, only to push back through it a few minutes later.

The title track from Furr – a folk-story, folk-rock tune – has even popped up on Monday night TV in an episode of NBC’s Chuck.  And while the tune isn’t wholly representative of the band’s music, the guys don’t seem to mind.  “It’s crazy.  A folk song doesn’t usually make it,” explains Eric.

Brian continues: “But if someone likes it, chances are they can get into the rest of our stuff.”

Following the Rochester show the band headed off to Northampton, MA for a venue with nearly double the capacity; tonight they’ll be in New York City where they don’t have to wait for the night of the show for it to sell out.  Amidst the buzz of both feedback and the crowd, no one will worry about broken van windows, or the size of the venue and stage, and the band will play as though it would have been foolish to have ever been worried about those things at all.

Blitzen Trapper – Furr (mp3) from Furr

Blitzen Trapper – Gold for Bread (mp3) from Furr

Blitzen Trapper – Wild Mountain Nation (mp3) from Wild Mountain Nation

Blitzen Trapper on tour:

2/27: New York City, NY – Bowery Ballroom (SOLD OUT)

2/28: Brooklyn, NY – Music Hall of Williamsburg (SOLD OUT)

3/1: Philadelphia, PA – First Unitarian Church

3/2: Washington, DC – Black Cat

3/4: Athens, GA – 40 Watt Club

3/5: Asheville, NC – Orange Peel

3/6: Nashville, TN – Mercy Lounge

3/7: Birmingham, AL – Bottletree

3/8: Memphis, TN – Hi-Tone

3/9: Norman, OK – The Opolis

3/10: Lawrence, KS – Jackpot Saloon

3/12: Denver, CO – Hi-Dive

3/13: Salt Lake City, UT – Kilby Court

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Phoenix

February 26, 2009 · Leave a Comment

Today has been interesting thus far. You can refer to our previous post concerning the matter of discussion. In getting back to good things we have a quick post on a band that shares names with a mythical creature that quite ostentatiously dies in flame and is reborn from its ashes. Consider this our Phoenix moment after being threatened.

The quartet from Versailles have a new album, their fourth, titled Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix due out the end of May. Download the lead single from the band directly here at the band’s site or below after some older tracks to get you in the mood.

Phoenix – If I Ever Feel Better (mp3) from United

Phoenix – Long Distance Call (mp3) from It’s Never Been Like That

Phoenix – 1901 (mp3) from the Forthcoming Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix

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Here’s To You, Web Sheriff

February 26, 2009 · Leave a Comment

After some Web Sheriff/WordPress wrangling this morning, Tympanogram is back in business.

While it brings up interesting debates over copyright infringement, fair use and DMCA, it’s really a big hassle, and not one we’re willing to take on just yet, especially since we don’t make any money doing this. In the meantime, we’re amending our disclaimer to include the specific provision in Copyright Law that addresses Fair Use in case anyone is interested.

So, while we still consider Astral Weeks to be something you should own, we’re amending our thoughts to the following: go and buy it used off of Amazon – or better yet at a local record store that sells used CDs.

In the meantime, Web Sheriff, since you might be watching right now, we’re expecting a reply to our request of you with the same expediency with which we honored yours.

And, the picture is fitting in more ways than one.  Happy Birthday, Johnny.

Categories: In the Establishment's Ear

1000 Minutes: Dave #2

February 25, 2009 · Leave a Comment

I spent a fair amount of time today sorting through a pile of mail due to our mailbox lock being impenetrable the past two weeks. We have been unable to insert the key fully into the lock thereby making it impossible to unlock the box and retrieve the mail. In anger I’ve hit the box and shook it which in turn only strengthened the box’s resolve. I tried lubrication to ease the key in but was rebuked unceremoniously. Finally I asked for a woman’s assistance. The mail carrier opened the box for me and handed me our pile of mail. Success! Due to the lack of access there were several things to sort through, mostly large amounts of garbage I have no use for including the seventh phone book we’ve gotten since 2009 began.

While this situation has nothing to do with today’s post it preoccupied me enough to delay finishing any work. That and laziness. However I have finished it so here is the second installment of my 1000 Minutes Adventure.

3. Hum – Stars (mp3) from You’d Prefer An Astronaut (5:09) [Time Remaining: 983:17]

I was basically a kid when this song was released. The lyrics painted a picture for me that I envisioned myself at a distance observing. I can feel what is being talked about in the song. I loved the song then and still do to this day. It’s power has not diminished even considering its use in a crappy Cadillac commercial.

4. Coldplay – Don’t Panic (mp3) from Parachutes (2:17) [Time Remaining: 981:00]

Coldplay has worked their way into becoming one of the largest and most popular bands on this planet. All that they have started with the album Parachutes and its opening song that they will never top.

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1000 Minutes: Andy #2

February 25, 2009 · 1 Comment

I’m tired this morning, so I have an Extra Large Coffee from Dunkin’ Donuts in front of me. (I think that the phrase “Extra Large Coffee” requires capitalization)

Dave and I are busy re-hashing our interview with Blitzen Trapper and their show from last night, so look for that either tomorrow or Friday depending on how quickly we can work on it. In the meantime, here are the next two tracks in my 1000 Minutes project:

3. The Tragically Hip – Bobcaygeon (mp3) from Phantom Power (4:55) [Time Remaining: 988:27]

When Phantom Power came out in 1998, The Tragically Hip were at the pinnacle of their popularity with me. Just about six months earlier, I had gotten my hands on a copy of their album Live Between Us, and fell head over heels for the group. I wore Phantom Power out, and saw them live twice that year, which I still would recommend to anyone who has the opportunity. It’s an experience.

“Bobcaygeon” is my favorite from an album I would still be able to sing along with every word. The song is comfortable and well-worn, even if you’re hearing it for the first time. Take it out for a drive and you’ll see.

4. Van Morrison – Sweet Thing (mp3) from Astral Weeks (4:25) [Time Remaining: 984:02] (removed by request)

Astral Weeks will at some point be written about for an Essential Album.  Everything on that whole album sounds fresh whenever I hear it.  “Sweet Thing” is a mix-tape staple of mine when I am forcing people to listen to good music, or when I’m trying to woo you.  (Ask my girlfriend.  I bet it’s on the first or second mix I made for her.)  I forced this song on my brother, who plays it when he’s making his coffeehouse rounds.  And it’s just so damn beautiful.

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Categories: Music
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mp3 Smörgåsbord #3

February 24, 2009 · Leave a Comment

This Tuesday brings you, dear readers, a veritable treasure trove of terrific tunes.  We’ll start it off with an alternate, b-side version of a song you should already love, then you’ll make your way to a song that was loved intensely for a summer, only to have it put away until now, washed down with some excellent math, and we’ll cleanse your palate with a Billy Idol cover from those reuniting rockers who like to be naked. Let the feast commence.

Jeff Buckley – Last Goodbye (Alternate Version) (mp3) from the Eternal Life single

Marjorie Fair – Waves (mp3) from Self Help Serenade

Radiohead – 2 + 2 = 5 (mp3) from Hail to the Thief

Blink-182 – Dancing With Myself (mp3) from Five Years on the Streets

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Drive Time

February 23, 2009 · 2 Comments

I’ve just returned from my first trip in a few years to Boston. While in Boston we happened upon what is purportedly the oldest tavern in America. I don’t know if it is the oldest for sure but the pub has been opened since 1794. I enjoyed myself a delicious half and half and soaked in the surroundings. I had a nice time on the trip but it’s good to be back home.

The drive to Boston takes about five hours so there is plenty of time to fill up with music. When driving I can get into a rhythm and somewhat free my mind to where it isn’t necessary to pay extra close attention to the road to know what I am doing. In an effort to combat boredom I let my mind wander onto different topics to keep myself entertained or at least engaged in thought. I want to listen to music that will recall some sort of memory that will occupy some time where I don’t dwell on the length of the trip.

Anyone driving to New England has spent a fair amount of time on the Mass Pike. I don’t know of any other song devoted to the turnpike so here you go.

Get Up Kids – Mass Pike (mp3) from Red Letter Day/Woodson EP

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New Releases: February 24

February 23, 2009 · 2 Comments

In what seems to be a particularly angry week in music, as well as the week that EMI releases Ben Harper’s catalog on vinyl, here are some selected releases for tomorrow, February 24. Check Amazon for a more complete listing.

Air France – No Way Down

Ben Harper Vinyl Reissues (click for full list)

Black Lips – 200 Million Thousand

Captain Beefheart – Safe as Milk (Oh no, you said that last week!)

Clem Snide – Hungry Bird

Hatebreed – For the Lions (not, unfortunately, Hatebeak.)

Lamb of God – Wrath

Sarah Slean – The Baroness

The Alternate Routes – A Sucker’s Dream

Van Morrison – Astral Weeks Live at the Hollywood Bowl

And, a couple tracks to whet your whistle for new releases:

Ben Harper – Sexual Healing (Live) (mp3) from Live from Mars

The Black Keys – I’m Glad (mp3). Original from Safe as Milk

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Oscars Weekend: Soundtrack Originals

February 22, 2009 · 1 Comment

Happy Sunday. As I mentioned yesterday, the Oscars are tonight. And, as promised, here are a few songs that are available on various soundtracks.

Iron & Wine – The Trapeze Swinger (mp3) from the In Good Company soundtrack

Anthony Hamilton – Do You Feel Me (mp3) from the American Gangster soundtrack

Vampire Weekend – Ottoman (mp3) from the Nick & Norah’s Infinite Playlist soundtrack

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