Band to Watch: Blouse
Portland trio, Blouse released their dark electro-pop ridden, self-titled debut late in 2011. While this release did not spread much further than the borders of the Pacific Northwest, I would expect them to acquire many new converts as they prepare themselves for a larger stage this year. The first audition will take place as Blouse heads down to Austin for SXSW. This will provide them with the proper platform to introduce many new listeners to their glowing gloom. I would not be shocked to see Blouse use SXSW to catapult themselves into many of your playlists much like Yuck was able to accomplish last year. I notice an undeniable attractive quality as I listen to each track on their release. Blouse will see success this year because of their intangible talent and commitment to their authenticity. I am confident in any band’s success when I notice these two important qualities from the beginning.
It should be noted that Unknown Mortal Orchestra bassist, Jacob Portrait moonlights in this project. As he travels from one start-up to the next, his “never sleep” attitude is appreciated by buzz band connoisseurs like myself. The combination of Portrait’s technical excellence combined with the dark tones of Charlie Hilton’s voice makes a formidable pairing. Track, “Videotapes” does the best job of displaying Blouse’s potential. Rich synths, deep bass, and a voice that sounds like it is coming from a shadow make “Videotapes” special and give Blouse a great deliverable for conversion. While it is not as friendly of an introduction as UMO’s “Ffunny Frends” it invites in listeners in a different way. Its melody absorbs my memory and makes me want more. A good first impression proves its value.
Blouse most likely will remain silent for a bit as they tour Europe, but expect the buzz to pick up as they land back in Portland for a show at the end of February. Consider this show along with their Eurotrip to be used as preparation for their biggest test, the monster that is SXSW. This will not be the only time you hear about Blouse this year, but if it is your first, make sure you do not let this one fall through the cracks. If you do, then I am sure Blouse will find a way to jog your memory as they begin their 2012 campaign.
Connect with Blouse via Facebook | Twitter
Written by Brett McGrath
Fresh Track: Triptides “Couch Surfer”
Triptides has remained a favorite of Thought on Tracks since our beginnings. Bloomington based and often left coast placed, Triptides remains relevant by offering that certain garage rock sound that makes my knees tremble. While I can’t tell what geographic location they are currently occupying, I can tell you that they just gave us two more free songs recorded in Apartment 3 on a Tascam 488.
Songs “Couch Surfer” and “Sun/Shine” are an extension of the sounds of 2011 release Psychic Summer. Glenn Brigman and Josh Menashe use a drum machine to support a mix of wild, beachy, melodic guitar riffs throughout these two tracks. It is undeniable that Triptides continues to win me over because their expedited release cycle and howling batch of nautical notes. While these songs do not bundle themselves accordingly with the winter woes they allow me to look forward to time in the sun, with my sand covering my toes.
Connect with Triptides via Facebook | Twitter | Bandcamp
Written by Brett McGrath
Fresh Track + Video: Palomino “Ponte Vecchio”
The New England Patriots and their fans are set to infiltrate my turf as they have earned a trip to Indianapolis for Super Bowl XLVI. My biggest nightmare has turned into a dark reality as Billy Cundiff decided to channel his true, inner Ray Finkle. While it is yet to be seen whether or not Mr. Cundiff goes Louis Einhorn on all of us, I struggle with finding a coping mechanism during these next two weeks. While I will opt to take cover in my downtown apartment to avoid the pain, I have decided to turn to the only thing that can possibly put my soul at ease – music.
It is my best guess that a myriad of residents from this great city will show their support to the Patriots opposition. New York Giants fans will be accepted and embraced by Hoosiers abound. What better way to leverage this new partnership than by using this blog to support the great music that comes from the Big Apple. I introduce you to New York’s Palomino.
Palomino is comprised of Elijah Campbell and Mike Sweeney. The duo is set to drop their self-titled, debut EP on at Ella in NYC on February 17. Their influences consist of Built to Spill, The Clash, and the Replacements. Not a bad set of bands to look to for inspiration. I was impressed when I saw the video for their single “Ponte Vecchio” and hope it is the first of many NYC bands I choose to cover as we lead up to the moment when all eyes are on Indianapolis. I welcome all of our readers to not only listen to Palomino, but use it as an East Coast elixir during times of despair leading up to the big game.
Connect with Palomino via Facebook | Bandcamp
Written by Brett McGrath
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