Snowden and Now, Now Every Children @ The Varsity 5/24

Snowden provided us with another mindblowing set, this time at the best venue in the cities.  The Varsity gave us all a perfect atmosphere along with flawless sound to enjoy the band from Atlanta.  Snowden has made Minneapolis a frequent stop.  Their biggest show in Minneapolis still has to be when Kings of Leon canceled at First Ave, making it a night with Snowden.  

Last night these guys brought it, all sparks, all noise.  I'm in awe when i watch bass player, Corrine Lee rule the stage.   Between the Rent, Anti Anti, and Bullets are some of the greatest tracks from their previous record Anti-Anti released in 2006.  Wouldn't be surprised if they got on another tour with Kings of Leon, these guys could definitely handle arena shows.  New record should be out soon.

Snowden Myspace Page

Snowden

Now, Now Every Children

Minneapolis version of Eisley.  It's nice to see some fresh new local talent.  Usually not big into checking out local bands, but these guys were pretty solid.  Now, Now Every Children come the city of Blaine.  These guys just signed to Afternoon records and also picked up a manager.  They'll be looking to tour throughout the midwest this summer.  Their first full length album is set to be released in September.  Right now they have an EP out called "Not One, But Two", go support some good local music.  

Upcoming Now, Now Every Children shows.. 

June 8th @ 7th st. Entry w/ A Night In The Box

June 24th @ Turf Club(St. Paul) w/ Headlights

Now, Now Every Children Myspace Page

For More photos of both bands check out My Flickr Page

See Kate Jackson this Sunday in Minneapolis at The Entry

Kate Jackson will be performing with her band The Long Blondes @ The Entry Sunday May 25th. Love Drug and Raven open.

The Envy Corps @ Peoples Court in Des Moines 5/21!

The Envy Corps played like shooting stars in front a immense local crowd. Performing the entire Dwell record in order, they finished the night with the best covers I've heard all time. The Verve(Bittersweet Symphony), New Order, and Led Zepplin(well it sounded like Led) were the 3 bands they covered during their spectacular encore.

Lead singer Luke Pettipoole and lead guitarist, Brandon Darner have entered another world in their lives, with their music and families. Luke might start a side project with a member of The Silent Years this summer.  The band will be working hard on writing the new record over the next year and will enjoy a break from touring and travel. Reading and Leeds Festivals(U.K. in August) are in the works, along with a festival with The Flaming Lips in States this summer.. Lets hope The Envy Corps stay together for a long time, and capture their dream and soon someday open for Radiohead.

For More photos go to My Flickr Page  / Slideshow

Buy The Envy Corps new record "Dwell" here.  (Best record of 2008 so far..)

The Envy Corps Official Page  /  Myspace Page

 

Interview with The Envy Corps + Preview for Des Moines 5/21 Gig

Lead singer, Luke Pettipoole was nice of to take the time to answer some questions..

Congrats on the new release Dwell! Any predictions on record sales in U.S. and U.K.? It's the album of the year in my opinion.

 Well it isn't out in the U.S. yet, but we did a soft release in the U.K. last month. I don't have wild expectations for sales, but I think it will be a grower.

Your lyrics and sound are inspiring to all your fans, how else will you inspire people?

I don't think we have any other agenda as far as inspiration other than our songs. None of us are politicians or martyrs.

You've switched around a few band members including the Yoshimura brothers, how have you been able to stay together with change?

I think the heart of the band is really the three people that are in it now. As long as we stick together The Envy Corps will live on. We have other people play with us live because we detest backing tracks, plus it's a lot more fun. I see the band continuing as more of a collective than a standard 4 or 5 piece.

Recently leaving the Eisley tour, was the decision made because you didn't like the crowds on the Eisley tour, the offer to play in the U.K was to good, or something else? Eisley loved you guys, I chatted with them after the show.

That was a real tough one. We did not want to leave the Eisley tour, in fact we prefer American crowds, but we had to go at our label's request. When you're a struggling band like us you still have to play the game sometimes.



Knowing The Envy Corps is pronounced envy core, it still sounds like corpse, a.k.a. a metal name. Can you become a huge band with that name?

Even if it is confusing to those without a tight grasp on English, it's still a better band name than most. It suits us just fine.

You've played with the Editors and The Courteeners in the U.K. what other new U.K. band would you like to play with?

Radiohead

If you weren't so precious, I'd have said "Off with your head" is a line from the song Party Dress. Explain that incredible line?

It's about being in a position to completely destroy a bitter enemy, but you realize that they are so feeble and weak minded that you pity them instead.

Did Luke really write a song in jail? If yes, details...

It's a rumor. We are all law-abiding citizens.

Is Peoples Court your favorite place to play a show? And how big will this hometown show be on the 21st?

Our favorite place to play is still the Vaudeville Mews. The vibe is so inviting...we played all our first shows there. The problem is it's just too small. People's is a great venue that can hold a few more people.

I'm going down with my friend Lydia to see these guys in Des Moines tomorrow night and jumping off the walls.  Imagine Radiohead and Modest Mouse at the Varsity Theater(small venue).  The Envy Corps are on a very big high after the best release of 2008("Dwell"), it will be a real pleasure to see them perform.  The band will be ready to play for their hometown fans at I'm sure a sold out show at People's Court.  

Check out their new video "Story Problem"

The Envy Corps Official Page / Myspace Page

3 Up and Coming Female Artists, who's the best???

Florence and the Machine with Lightspeed Champion

Yes that's Lightspeed Champion who will be in Minneapolis June 14th @The Entry

Florence and the Machine is set to play all the big festivals this summer in England. And has a brand new track with Lightspeed Champion.

Florence and the Machine Myspace Page



Thao Nguyen

Thao Nguyen is from Virginia and is currently on tour with Rilo Kiley.

Thao Nguyen Myspace Page


Charlie Jones
Charlie Jones comes all the way from LEICESTER, England and is playing a few shows with Johnny Foreigner this summer.

Charlie Jones Myspace Page

No videos from Charlie but here is Johnny Foreigner

Starsailor's 4th album coming soon!!!!

Starsailor recently finished recording their fourth album. The band have now also been confirmed to support The Police on three dates this summer.

A message from James Walsh

Hello All,

Well it’s been a long time in the making but we have finally finished recording our 4th album (hope I haven't spoken too soon!) It’s certainly been an adventure! We have been to 4 studios (Real World, The Doghouse, Sofa Sound and Eastcote) and a whole cast of characters have been involved getting to this point. Undoubtedly the two people who have put the most effort in the studio (apart from the band) are Producer Steve Osborne and Engineer Dan Austin (Who is also working with Doves at the same time! No wonder he looks knackered!). Our A&R man Chris Briggs has been in frequently regaling us with tales of his life in rock n roll (Chris has been working at EMI for years. What he doesn’t know about The Waterboys, Robbie Williams, Jethro Tull and Tottenham Hotspur is not worth knowing!)

We have 16 songs recorded with 12 possible contenders for the album. Regular visitors to the site will be familiar with the titles 'Tell Me Its Not Over’, ‘Boy In Waiting’ and 'All The Plans We Made'. There is also 'The Thames’,’ Hurts Too Much,’ You Never Get What You Deserve’,’ Listen Up’,’ Under A Neon Sky’,’ Safe At Home’,’ Change My Mind' and 'Stars and Stripes'.



There has been an emphasis on strong melodies and simple arrangements for this album and the guitar playing of Richard Warren has definitely enhanced the sound. I'm not one for slagging off the last album and saying this one is 100 times better because the last album definitely had its merits. However we have spent a lot longer writing and recording this one and the result is the perfect companion to 'Love Is Here.’

On a totally different note I recently devoured 2 series of 'Life On Mars' during a recent bout of illness and was absolutely blown away. I saw Supergrass at The Roundhouse (You forget how good they are) and I have been reading George Orwell 'Down And Out In Paris And London. Oh and the workmen finally finished the kitchen!

See You Soon

James Walsh

One of the greatest songs of all time "Silence is Easy"

Kanye West-Did You Realize That Your a Champion In Your Eyes?

Kanye West - Champion (FANMADE VIDEO)


Not a big Hip Hop fan, but this track called "Champion" by Kayne West is a must have your Summer/Party Mix.  Hip Hop died after 2Pac and Biggy died, in my opinion.  But their are some good artists out there today.

Kayne is set to play at the Target Center apart of the Glow in the Dark tour (June 11th) here in Minneapolis.  Rihanna, N.E.R.D. and Lupe Fiasco are set to be the openers for West.   

Contest for The Duke Spirit !!!!!

Two lucky winners will be taking home prizes.. One will recieve a T-shirt and an Instrumental CD. The other will recieve a a vinyl and the full length album "Neptune". Neptune was released this year! Just email Brody at BritRockAtTheTop@live.com (subject Duke Spirit) and include your name and mailing address in the email. Contest will end on Monday May 19th.

These guys drew a lot of buzz down at SXSW and have been a very popular band on 89.3 the current here in Minneapolis. Already lined up is a headline tour throughout Europe this summer along with appearances at Reading and Leeds festivals. They will also be back in L.A. and Pittsburgh in July.

The Duke Spirit Official Page / Myspace Page

Go to England Swings this Saturday at the Triple Rock!!!

SIKA will be the first been taken the spot of Coyotes.  Get ready for Blur, Oasis, Radiohead, Muse, The Clash, The Kinks, Bowie, and so much more!!!!!!

Candie Payne the Front Runner for the New Bond Movie Theme Song.

Candie Payne

Back in April, Amy Winehouse and Mark Ronson were chosen for the theme song of the new Bond movie, "Quantum of Solace". Unfortunately as most of us all know Amy has had some problems in the media with drug charges and break ups. The distraction forced the two to discontinue the project. Ronson said, "she still needs more time before she starts making music again." Funny how Amy is already making music with Pete Doherty of Babyshambles??

Pictured above is Candie Payne, an incredible soul singer, currently blowing up in the U.K. Mark Ronson, the world famous producer, has been working with this bombshell from Liverpool for quite sometime now. Mark and Candie are working on Payne's untitled second release. Mark's girlfriend Daisy Lowe hasn't been to pleased with how much time the two have spent together. My guess is that Mark and Candie are also working on that Bond theme song. I could be wrong? Personally I think she should star in the film as the new bond girl and sing the theme song.

Other candidates for the bond theme song

1. Kylie Minogue

2. Duffy

3. Santogold (nevermind, I think the artist has to be from the U.K. shes from Brooklyn)

4. ?????

Here is an short interview with Candie Payne

The Helio Sequence / The Alarmists / SIKA @ First Ave. 5/14/08

Benjamin Wiekel, drummer for The Helio Sequence, has to be the best drummer I've seen.  Even better than Ringo Starr, oh yea! Fortunatley Ben doesn't try to sing like Ringo, but is extremely animated. Benjamin also has played with Modest Mouse.  The other half and front man of Helio is Brandon Summers, another extremely talented performer.  

As soon as Helio Sequence started I raced to the front of the crowd and immediately was loving the sound. It is amazing what two guys from Portland can do on stage.  Ben and Brandon need to keep writing and continue touring so more fans can witness greatness.  

The Helio Sequence

For More Photos go to My Flickr Page

                                               THE ALARMISTS

The Alarmists are still the best Minneapolis local band at the moment.  They're only planning on playing about 5 shows this summer, as they'll look to do more recording and set up for a midwest fall tour.  "Car Crashing" and "You're Right" are two catchy new singles on their spring singles EP.  

                                                          SIKA

SIKA is a  very talented local group going for a Muse/Radiohead sound.  Catch them at England Swings this Saturday May 17th at 8pm @ The Triple Rock where they will play some Muse and Radiohead.  

Clinic 5/13/08 @ The Entry

CLINIC = BLOODY BRILLIANT

This was the first time checking out the band Clinic, and was I sure glad to be at this show. I think you have to like this band simply because of appereance. With Haiwan t-shirts and oxygen face masks you can't go wrong. They played the entire "Do It" album which was released this year. Following thier new album/first half set, they played all the hits from the old records.. This Liverpool band has been around since 97, and now has 5 albums under their belt. Most importantly thier live set, still rocks..

For all the photos go to My Flickr Page

David Ford in Minneapolis 5/12/08 @ The Fine Line

David Ford has toured with just about everyone and is a rougher version of David Gray. Unlike Gray, Ford plays more guitar than piano and is a master at looping. It was a sold out show at the Fine Line and most of the crowd was their to witness Fords set. Although Fords set was short, he sure put everything he had into his set. Belting out into multiple microphones, throwing his broken string into the crowd (along with his hat), were just some of the examples of effort. I'm generaly not into a rough folky singer, but David Ford really forces fans to embrace his power on stage. Lets hope he comes back with a band like Starsailor or Doves next time touring the U.S. Ford's new record came out in the U.S. April 1st and is titled "Songs For The Road", go buy it's good. 

For more photos go to My Flickr Page  /  David Ford Slideshow

David Ford Official Page / Myspace Page

David Ford Cd Giveaway + Minneapolis Show 5/12!!

One lucky winner will be getting a copy of David Fords new album "Songs For The Road", which was released on April 1st. Just Email Brody at BritRockAtTheTop@live.com (subject David Ford). Deadline will be may 14th.  

David Ford has been on tour with the likes of Starsailor, Ingrid Michaelson, Sara Bareilles, and now is currently on tour with Augustana who will be performing live at the fineline tom. night(Monday May 12th)!

Here is David's new video "Going to Hell"(live)



Also get ready for Clinic at the Entry on tuesday night. Kyle over at MoreCowbell.net is doing a ticket giveaway for that.

RAGGED Contest featuring Kate Nash and more..

Here it is folks the dream contest you've all been waiting for. All you have to do is email me at BritRockAtTheTop@live.com, subject Kate Nash with your name and mailing address included in the email. Winners will be chosen at random. Deadline to enter is Monday May 12th. The Prize Pack will be mailed to the winner directly from the Filter office.



The Prize Pack would include:

CDs from 6 Ragged Artists
Kate Nash
Switches
Grand Ole Party
Gran Ronde
Monte Negro
Thrice

Ragged Mag

Kate Nash T-shirt

The entire Ragged issue is available for FREE download at www.raggedmag.com where fans can also get updates on all the artists and enter to win $500 of American Rag Cie clothing.

Coldplay Announces Summer U.S. tour..

Oh yea, they're coming to Minnesota. At The Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul!, which is way better than the Target Center in Minneapolis. This will be the third time seeing Coldplay (both shows at Target Center), third times a charm.  I wish they were playing First Avenue, but dreams are never reality.  Still waiting to hear the full album, not a fan of the new single, "Viva La Vida" 

The Starting shows of the North American Tour

New York, NY Madison Square Garden (June 23)
Philadelphia, PA Wachovia Center (29)
Washington, DC Verizon Center (July 2)
Hartford, CT XL Center (3)
Detroit, MI The Palace of Auburn Hills (5)
Cleveland, OH Quicken Loans Arena (6)
St. Paul, MN Xcel Energy Center (8)

For the full American Tour check out the NME Article

Cajun Dance Party / Lerrone / Foals CD Reviews...

Cajun Dance Party comes from London and is mix between Razorlight/ Jack Penate / and Mystery Jets. Listening to this top to bottom several times, I've come to realize this will be the cd of the summer.  "The Colourful Life", is the name of their debut album which was released April 28th in the U.K. It already is a top 5o album in the UK. 

Download -The Firework, Amylase, and The Hill The View and The Lights

Leerone is a singer songwriter from L.A. The name of her first full length album is "Imaginary Biographies".  Leerone had an EP back in 2003 and is poised to break into the music scene in L.A.  You know what they say in L.A., "Hollywood".

Download - To Fill The Void, and  Life Could Be

Foals is this years Klaxons.  This record titled "Antidotes" is incredible from start to finish. Foals debut album was released on Mar. 24th 2008 in the U.K.  If you like fast pace guitars and british vocals you'll love this band live and on record.  This band became a group in 2005 and hail from Oxford, England.

Download - Cassius, Two Steps Twice, and Ballons 

Devotchka w/ Basia Bulat @ First Ave.

      Devotchka has been around since 97 and continues to be a spectacular scene live.  Coming from Denver Colorado this band presents a very unique sound. People clasify thier music as Gypsy Punk/ Folk Rock.  That's not even close.  If I knew nothing about this band I would of guessed they were the biggest band in Mexico.  Romani, Greek, and Slavic roots are just a few of the different styles of music.

       Playing at First Ave. to a sold out crowd is a very frequent occurrence for the band. Lead singer Nick Urata and crew had a full string quartet thanks to two members of opener Basia Bulat. Of course the Slavic sisters were their showing off their acrobatic skills. Quite an amazing sight, considering they are that high in the air in the middle of the crowd.  "The Clockwise Witness" was arguably my favorite track.  What was even more impressive then the slavic sisters, was a double encore from the band, and watching Nick go off on his many guitars.  

Devotchka just released it's 6th album "A Mad and Faithful Telling".

More Photos check out My Flickr Page  / Slideshow of Devotchka

Devotchka

Basia Bulat

This girl from Ontario has ton of talent and proves to have one of strongest voices in the world.  Had a chance to chat with Basia after her set, and found out how down to earth and hilarious she is. Last year she released her debut album Oh, My Darling through Rough Trade records.  I've listened to her record at least 10 times.  And if you haven't seen the video for "In The Night", you have to watch it below.

Black Kids and Cut Copy @ The Entry

Black Kids

Cut Copy

Smoosh and Tokyo Police Club 5/6/08 @ Varsity Theater

                                                          Smoosh

Currently the two main Smoosh sisters Asya and Chloe are now 16 and 14 and just added their little sister Maia in 07.  6 years ago these gals were opening for Pearl Jam.  This is an extremely talented band and it will be really fun to watch them continue developing their skills over the next 5 years. 

                                                  Tokyo Police Club

Ra Ra Riot and The Little Ones @ 7th St. Entry

                                                      Ra Ra Riot

This was the third time in the last year and a half seeing Ra Ra Riot and they just keep getting better.  They've done a full length american tour with Editors, The Cribs, and now are headlining with the Little Ones.  Three full U.S. tours and they still don't even have a full length album yet, thats impressive.  The buzz is building for these guys even in Europe where their signed to V2.  Ra Ra Riot doesn't have an American Label yet but are working on a deal so they can release a full length under a label.  The Kids from NYC should have a full length album out this August.  

Ra Ra Riot Slideshow from 7th St. Entry

Ra Ra Riot Official Page  / Myspace Page

                 The Little Ones

Lovers Who Uncover, what does that mean? "Young ones grow anxious to proclaim their advances to the fray" and "Their faces are green and they don’t know what they’ve done", are my two favorite lines in the song of last summer and this summer.  With many other hits, The Little Ones also are improving and got me and the Gaber dancing to the whole set.  Coming from L.A., The Little Ones consist of two Reyes brothers and 3 other friends.  They have nothing to do with the 1965 British family comedy film called "The Little Ones".  These indie rockers have a brand new EP titled "Ferry Tales and Fallen Gates" 

The Little Ones Slideshow from the Entry

The Little Ones Website  /  Myspace Page

"Lovers Who Uncover" Video

Eisley @ The Fine Line Music Cafe(Minneapolis) 5/4/08

                           The DuPree Sisters (Sherri, Chauntelle, and Stacy)

More photos on My Flickr Page

Kate Nash @ First Ave. 5/3/08

The lovely Kate Nash soared into Minneapolis with her birds, band, and big smile.  Her first full American tour in support of her debut album "Made of Bricks", has been quite the success.  With 6 new songs on her set, plus a couple of covers. I give Kate two thumbs up.   

For More Photos visit My Flickr Page

Kate Nash "Baby Love"

Weekend Shows in Minneapolis...

Saturday May 3rd - Kate Nash @ First Ave



89.3 THE CURRENT PRESENTS KATE NASH "NME Awards Tour"

W/ THE TRACHTENBURG FAMILY SLIDESHOW PLAYERS

6pm Doors 7:30pm Show 18+ $15 advance and at doors


Sunday May 4th - Eisley @ The Fineline Music Cafe  

Eisley w/ The Myriad and Vedera (The Envy Corps left the tour)