Fresh Track: The Walkmen “Heaven”
There is something to be said for consistency. As any music fan will tell you, there are no guarantees when it comes to bands. For the majority of the indie world, the first album is always the highlight. Years of work playing in front of small crowds at shitty bars leads to a triumphant album that is more of a culmination than the beginning. The “Sophomore Slump” is a common phrase that tends to follow up this spectacular first album. Simply, it’s much harder to keep the goods coming.
However, the truly great acts can deliver, and do repeatedly. The Walkmen need no introduction, because, well… they are one of the best. Whether you first heard them on The O.C. rocking out with “Little House of Savages” in 2004 (oh yes, I did just go there) or with their last masterpiece Lisbon, it’s almost impossible to listen and not be a fan. And the best part about The Walkmen? Like a fine wine, they just keep getting better. “Heaven”, the lead single and title-track from their forthcoming album was dropped yesterday. And sure enough, it’s absolutely great. Scope the track below and pre-order your copy of Heaven from Fat Possum.
Connect with The Walkmen via Facebook | Twitter
Written by Greg Dahman
Fresh Track: Japandroids “The House that Heaven Built”
Japandroids have always found a way to stay in the picture with me. Fast and aggressive, their 2009 release Post-Nothing was a brilliant introduction that gained my attention. When No Singles (compilation of EPs Lullaby Death James and All Lies) came out the year I grew confident that these guys were not just a one and done. Much to my satisfaction, the guys from Japandroids have offered fans their first single from their next full length, Celebration Rock, due out on June 15.
“The House That Heaven Built” is what listeners have come to expect from the Japandroids. Fast guitar, heavy drums, and aggressive vocals help assure me that there will not be tremendous change with their formula on this record…which is a good thing. This song is meant to be played with the volume maxed out. If this track is any indication of ferociousness that we should come to expect with this album, then expect a sore neck come June. Until then, use “The House That Heaven Built” to satisfy your garage rock needs.
Connect with Japandroids via Facebook | Bandcamp
Written by Brett McGrath
Fresh Track: Yuck “Chew”
Nothing like a pleasant surprise on a Thursday to provide the necessary motivation to close out an arduous work week. Today, 2011’s buzziest band Yuck surprised fans with their first single of 2012. “Chew” is saturated in the same heavy reverb and distortion that made Yuck’s 2011 debut one of the darling releases of the indie blogosphere. So far this year, the London band has remained content occupying their efforts in side projects (See links below), but it’s great to hear some sounds from the band as a unit.
Yuck will return stateside next week to take part in Indio, CA’s Coachella Music and Arts Festival. Yuck will help kick off the festival’s Friday lineup, with a performance on the Outdoor Theatre stage slated for 3:15 local time next Friday. Those unable to attend need not fret, Yuck’s set will be available for live streaming via Coachella’s Youtube page. Tune in around 6 EST to watch the broadcast.
Connect with Yuck via Facebook | Twitter
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Written by Rob Peoni and Brett McGrath
Thought on Tracks 