Avett Brothers hit high notes with albums

When a band has the ability to innovate themselves away from the norm of the music industry, their music takes precedence over all the other bands. When a band is able to stick with their innovative attitudes, their albums have the rawness that most artists are unable to do.

                The musical group The Avett Brothers has made a name for themselves in the blues-folk area. The Concord, N.C., based band has gained recognition in the music industry for staying pure with their sound.

                The band consists of Scott (vocals, piano, acoustic guitar, banjo and harmonica) and Seth (vocals, piano, acoustic guitar and drum kit) Avett, Bob Crawford (vocals, upright bass and trumpet) and Joe Kwon (cello). The band formed in 2000.

                With their latest album I and Love and You the band received help from producer Rick Rubin. Rubin is widely known for his work with many rock bands, including Linkin Park, Rage Against the Machine and the Red Hot Chili Peppers. He's known for his way of stripping down songs, which includes limited back up for vocals and sound.

                I and Love and You was the major label debut album. It garnered a hit and produced their 17 track live concert album, Live Vol. 3. I and Love and You peaked at number 16 on the Billboard top 200 charts. It was the number one folk album in the country at the time.

                The band’s fifth studio album, Emotionalism was released in 2007. It debuted at number one on the Billboard Top Heat Seekers Albums chart. Later on, it entered the Billboard top 200 charts at number 134.

                I and Love and You was truly a gem among other albums last year. The lyrics to the songs seem like the most poetic verses to ever be read. The song "Kick Drum Heart," is upbeat and brings a lot of drum beats to the eardrum, while the song "January Wedding," is more soulful and heartfelt. The whole album conveys the feeling of love, loneliness and yearning for something more.

                The band has been self promoting themselves for years, their five studio albums, four EP’s and three live albums. They also toured to promote each album; most of the shows occurred in North Carolina

                The Avett Brothers performed at the Bonnaroo Music festival in June 2010. The harmonies on each of their albums are perfect, and they each blend smoothly in with the sound waves escaping through the headphones. With their indie rock and folk sound, they border the line of sounding like a Mountain Man version of the Beatles.

                Their love laced lyrics also help with the comparison. Fans who appreciate bluegrass, folk rock or country will greatly enjoy the sounds of the Avett Brothers.

Dobson attempts to lure fans back with album

                The long awaited official second album by Canadian rocker FeFe Dobson was finally released Nov. 30. After being pushed back numerous times due to Dobson being dropped from her original label and then being signed back on two years later put a strain on the album. Most of the original songs slated to be featured on the album, Joy were eliminated and Dobson had to write new songs.

                The 13 track album features a wide range of Dobson’s vocal talent. However, it strongly lacks the best quality Dobson has to offer, her punk rock attitude. With Dobson’s range of putting her own unique twist on her music, the album is still lackluster.

                It debuted in the Canadian Charts landing in the top 60. The album has not charted in the U.S., yet, and the chance of it doing so is slim unless she promotes the album better. She’s performed on several U.S. news shows and on a few lukewarm popular television shows.

                Two singles were released at the same time for the album entitled, “I Want You 2 Watch Me Move.” Its two song titles combined into one, and they were only promo songs.  Both singles were commercial hits. “Watch Me Move” was featured on numerous television show promos.

                The first official single was “Ghost,” a song about a scorned ex who sees her ex with another girl. The video sheds light on how Dobson has matured. She still possesses the energy of legendary rocker Joan Jett.

                The album has more of a pop-esque edge to it, even though Dobson tries to hold on to her edgy side.  “Thanks for Nothing” and “In Your Touch” still prove that Dobson is a superb lyricist who can convey almost any emotion into a song. The one thing the album shy’s away from is sappy love songs.

                “Stuttering” is a confusing song, about being scorned by a lover, which seems to be a recurring theme throughout the album.

                The best tracks, “I Made Out with Your Boyfriend” and “Johnny Cash,” are hidden on the iTunes deluxe version of the album.  She tries to redeem herself in her fans’ eyes with this album, but the poppy sound will completely throw off fans at first.  Fans will be able to tell how much Dobson put into this album, especially since it took over six years for her to gain her spotlight back.

                But, the album lacks the hardcore sound that made fans fall in love with her. Dobson is currently touring to support the album with acoustic shows across the U.S. 

               Granted Dobson was 18 years old when her self titled first album was released, but she still tries to hold on to that Joan Jett mentality. The album is fair, but with the right state of mind it could have been better.

Florence and the Machine garners attention w/ enchanting album

                London based band Florence and The Machine has made a remarkable mark in the U.S. The band is composed of solo singer Florence Welch and a backing band of musicians.  The 24-year-old fiery red head has been making a notable track record when it comes to live shows by touring most the U.K. since 2009.

                They performed at the 2010 Nobel Peace Prize Concert in December, and most recently Welch performed during the opening Aretha Franklin Tribute at the 53rd Grammy Awards.  The band was nominated for Best New Artist at the 53rd Grammy’s. They will also be embarking on a U.S. tour this summer.

                They’ve been classified as art rock, folk rock and soul, which is a very rare mix to uphold.  The debut album, Lungs, was released July 6, 2009, by Island records. The album has received immense praise in the U.K. by debuting at number two on the charts.

                Lungs stayed at the top of the charts for 65 weeks making it the top selling album in the U.K. in 2009 and 2010. It has been certified four times platinum in the U.K. and two times platinum in Australia.  

                The first single released off the album, “Kiss with a Fist,” became a worldwide commercial hit.  It was featured in several U.S. television shows, including the NBC comedy Community. Contrary to its lyrics, the song is about a ‘punch drunk love’ type of relationship.

               Welch used the album as a 46 minute therapy session after a short lived spilt from her boyfriend at the time.  The second and the most triumphant of her singles, “Dog Days are over” became a hit during the summer of 2010.

                It was used in countless television promos and movie trailers such as the 2010 Julia Roberts movie, “Eat, Pray, Love.” She even performed the song at the 2010 MTV Video Music Awards.

                Originally the song had a stripped down version that was included on the album. The song became so widely popular that it was performed by the actors on the high school based musical show, Glee.

                The album is encased with spitfire passion and aggression about a relationship gone wrong. The imagery and vivid lyrics give the listener the hint of a scorned lover speaking their mind.

                The one instrument that the album possesses that others lack is a harp. As uncommon as it may sound, the harp brings the seemingly wood nymph feeling to each song.  Other notable songs on the album include, “Drumming Song,” which showcases Welch’s songwriting skills, and “You’ve got the love” significantly displays Welch’s vocal ability.

                The album basically entails a whirlwind romance that goes through bumps and the spark ignites between them repeatedly.  Most of the lyrics have a hint of similarity with Edgar Allen Poe writings that depict death and sadness.

                Welch has that mysterious ability to entice a listener with love sick melodies and then slap them in the face with every sad emotion known to mankind.

                The band is currently working on their second studio album which is set for a 2011 release date. Welch is also in the studio collaborating with Canadian Rapper Drake for his second studio album.

Adele delivers highly impressive sophomore album

      Every musician has the ability to evoke emotion in their music, but the level of emotion depends on the musician’s vocal abilities. U.K. singer, Adele is perhaps the best musician who can accomplish that feat.

      The 22 year old had major success with her first album, “19.” It earned her the 2010 Grammy for Best New Artist and also for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance. Her appearance on a 2008 episode of the acclaimed show, “Saturday Night Live,” vaulted her to the top of the Billboard charts overnight.

      The recently released album, “21,” is truly an astonishing album that indulges into heartbreak and desire for the love she lost. The 11-track album captures every pure feeling involved in love. It’s a version of a diary that most people crave to read.  Unlike her previous album, this one captures the angst and the bitterness of someone who’s going through heartbreak.

      The album has defeated the obstacle that most sophomore albums lack, becoming the number one album in its first week of release. Not only that, but after her performance at the 2011 Brit Awards, that was so beautiful it wouldn’t be a surprise if a few tears were shed.

      The first single, “Rolling in the deep,” has become a massive hit with the soulful sound she carries in her vocals. The song has no similarities to her previous major singles, “Chasing Pavements” and “Hometown Glory.”

      She does her own rendition of “Love song,” which is hands down probably the best version of the song ever made. Yes, it even beats 311’s version.

      This album pulls at the heartstrings of a confused and bitter lover. It keeps the listener in a trance that makes them feel the sorrow and hurt that Adele provides in each song.

      The true inspiration for the album surfaced during her U.S. tour to promote her first album, 19. She was introduced to bluegrass and country while on tour and that made “21” an exceptional album. She collaborated with record producer Rick Rubin, and One Republic lead singer Ryan Tedder contributed to the album.

      Tedder’s effort in the song, “Turning Tables” is startlingly excellent and it doesn’t mimic his work with other musicians.

      The album truly shows the feelings of heartbreak and bitterness mixed in with a few cheerful tunes. When Adele started production on the album she was going through a difficult breakup and the album became her method of venting out all those built up emotions.

      Adele has the flawless ability to keep the listener drawn in. The track “Someone like you” is hands down the best of the album.  With no other instruments on the track but a piano, she brings all the sorrow that comes with losing love gracefully.

      It has so much raw emotion and the lyric, “Regrets and mistakes they're memories made, who would have known how bittersweet this would taste,” gives the song the intimate feeling of longing.

Foo Fighters to release Wasting Light April 12

It’s a great achievement when a rock band can stay intact for more than 10 years. The Foo Fighters has exceeded that expectation by continuing to make guitar riff heavy music for 17 years.

They recently released their first single “Rope” from their seventh studio album Wasting Light, which is set for release April 12.

Along with the release of Wasting Light, the band is premiering their first film on April 12, which chronicles the band’s years together.  The band formed in 1994 with front man Dave Grohl, who’s most noted for being the drummer for grunge band Nirvana.

Rounding out the current members of Foo Fighters is Chris Shiflett (lead guitar, rhythm guitar and backing vocals), Nate Mendel (bass), Taylor Hawkins (drums, percussion and backing vocals) and recently returning member Pat Smear (rhythm guitar, lead guitar, and backing vocals).

The new 11 track album is the first full collaboration with noted producer Butch Vig. He is most known for being the mastermind behind Nirvana’s Nevermind album.  The album was produced and recorded in Grohl’s garage, and it features a collaboration with Krist Novoselic, Grohl’s former Nirvana band mate.

The album was made with no computer software, everything was on analog tape. Picturing the Foo Fighters taking this approach was hard, but as the first single “Rope” shows it’s worked out for the best.

Their last studio album Echoes, Silence, Patience & Grace (2007) was nominated for five 2008 Grammy Awards. The band won two of those five awards. It was an incredible album that showcased many sides of the band. They experimented with bluegrass and dramatic effects with the album.

But, with Wasting Light there’s a strong possibility, it will trump all preconceived notions by wary fans.

Lykke Li releases darker new album

Swedish Indie singer Lykke Li has the power to keep the world in tune with her undeniable unique sound.

Li is perhaps one of the most creative artists in today’s industry. With her whispery voice and love scorn lyrics, each song captivates a listener. Li has been a fan favorite of indie artist with her mix of soul and electro pop. With her new album, Wounded Rhymes, she decided to record in Los Angeles. The album was released Feb. 25 to rave reviews.

The album tops her debut, Youth Novels. The lyrics are more powerful and the sound is more eclectic. It’s a darker album than Youth Novels.

In the first single, “Get some” she expresses having all the power in a relationship. With infectious hooks and danceable beats, Wounded Rhymes falls easily in the category of one of the top albums of 2011. The ballad “Unrequited Love” shows the vulnerable side that the album possesses with melodic guitar riffs and amazing backing vocals.

The album opener “Youth Knows No Pain” brings the noise with upbeat drums. Even though Youth Novels was an impressive debut album with songs like “Little Bit,” “Breaking it up,” and “Everybody but me,” no other songs featured on the new album sound like duplications of those songs.

The major winners on the sophomore album are the ballads that embody that raw sound the Li is notorious for. With her emotional and impeccable creative mind, Wounded Rhymes is far from horrible.

Li had a single featured on the soundtrack of the Twilight Saga: New Moon Soundtrack. The song, “Possibility,” is an absolutely haunting song about heartbreak. The soundtrack topped the charts and gave Li a wider fan base.

Hip Hop phenom Drake used “Little Bit,” on a mix tape he released before he dominated the U.S. charts.
She even did a cover of the song “Knocked Up” which is by Kings of Leon and that makes her incredible in the eyes of music lovers.

Incubus returns after five-year recording hiatus

One band that has been a stable in the alternative rock genre is Incubus.

Since its debut in 1991, the band hasn’t left room for disappointment with their poetic lyrics and monumental albums.

Lead singer Brandon Boyd is the epitome of brilliant along with Mike Einziger (lead guitar/ backing vocals), Ben Kenney (bass guitar/ backing vocals), Chris Kilmore (turntables/ keyboards) and Jose Pasillas (drums) collectively are just musical geniuses.

Even with their third album, Make Yourself producing hit songs such as “Drive,” “Pardon Me,” and “Stellar” making the band a notable fix in music it didn’t make them a platinum band. 

By far the best of their work shows on their fourth studio album, Morning View, which had a softer tone than their previous albums.  Morning View made Incubus that band for the ultimate summer mix tape with its smooth melodies and harmonious lyrics.  Songs like “11am” and “Echo” have unbelievable melodies.  Fans could tell that their sound has changed over the years as they have matured.

Their latest album Light Grenades was released in 2006 and scored the band their first number one slot on the Billboard charts. After Light Grenades the band went on a five year hiatus as they all decided to focus on their personal lives.  

As with most bands who take an extended hiatus, their record company released a greatest hits album entitled, Monuments and Melodies in June 2009. The compilation included a bonus disk with b-sides, covers, and alternate takes and became the band’s fourth album to reach the top five on the Billboard charts.

The new album, If Not Now, When is planned for a July 2011 release. The first single off the album

“Adolescents” embodies the same Incubus sound that many have to come to love. The 11 track album will hopefully show more of the band’s maturity and Boyd’s creative song writing. 

So far the critics love the buzz around the new album; hopefully that won’t hinder fans thoughts if the album falls short. But, come on its Incubus. They can do no wrong in their fans’ hearts.

Yeah, you know what...

On, Dec.18th, I had a two second panic attack when someone told me Paramore broke up. After getting confirmation that only two members left and that the band will continue as a trio, I swiftly announced to kick the person who shared the news with me in the shins.

Like every other Paramore fan, I was bummed about the news and I was able to deal with the fact that Josh and Zac were just unhappy and wanted to be with their families. However, some people like to express their feelings. Hence the blog making all the commotion today online. Josh detailed more than necessarily needed to fans about how he felt the band was all about Hayley and continued to rant about how he "felt" the band was a ploy to make Hayley famous. But, I have a few things to say about this, so I'm going to put my Journalistic skills to good use here.

First of all, a lot of fans were content with the blog posted on Paramore.net about the departure of the Farro's. So the uncivil blog was not needed to further hinge the success of the band because it has now caused a fiasco amongst fans taking sides. I know we're just fans, we can't understand the functions of what makes a band amazing. But, we do understand how their lyrics can make us feel like the world and that for once we matter.

I've been a Paramore fan since December 2005, after seeing them on MTV's You hear it first. Since then, their music has continued to make a difference in my life by always being those lyrics and songs that I listen to when the time is needed. Whatever emotion was present eventually dwindled away all thanks to their music.

Everyone knows that for a band to make an impact, there has to be a special element, Paramore is known for their live shows and their togetherness. I've witnessed them twice in concert, last summer when they opened for No Doubt and this summer on the opening night of the Honda Civic Tour.

What I'm trying to say is that none of the fans will be able to fully grasp the reality of what's going on. However, to me as long as I can look forward to more music from Paramore so, that I can share it with people and hopefully maybe in the future with my kids and my grandkids, than I'm fine. Hayley Williams, is an amazing vocalist and always will be. She's a strong staple in a lot of young girls lives and she's developed a fearless personality that I wish I had. Jeremy and Taylor are also two amazing musicians who help balance out the dynamic of the band and I cant' wait to see what the trio has in store with their fourth studio album.

So my message to Hayley, Jeremy, and Taylor is Rock On...you guys are too awesome not to! And Hayley you are the bees knees. 


As far as Josh and his sensational blog...grow up and stop being dramatic. And I hope for the best for you and Zac.

Albums from 2010 that should grace every iPod

*Disclaimer: This is a rough draft, I will be adding more reliable reasons soon. This was spur of the moment.


10.) Treats by Sleigh Bells
It’s rare for an album with heavy bass and what sounds to me a little bit of auto tune to ever grace this list, but Sleigh Bells have bleed into this album and it’s amazing. With their gritty guitar riffs and the mass amount of bass booming from each song, I couldn’t resist. Each song has the ability to verbally punch you in the ear drums.



Songs to download: “Crown on the ground” & “Riot Rhythm”


9.)The Suburbs by Arcade Fire
I love Arcade Fire and this album did not disappoint me. I love how out of the box this band is and how the utilize each member in the band. This album hands down was their best, well at least to me. They have less angst in this album, but they still express their opinions on things going on in the world today.



Songs to download: “The Suburbs” & “Suburban War”



8.) Joy by FeFe Dobson
If you know me, you know I’m a Dobson fan. She tries to redeem herself in her fans eyes with this album, but the poppy sound will completely throw off fans at first. Fans will be able to tell how much Dobson put into this album, especially since it took over 6 years for her to gain her spotlight back. But, the album lacks the hardcore sound that made me fall in love with her. Granted she was 16 when her first album was released, but she still embodies that Joan Jett persona on stage just not in her music now. The album is fair, but I think it could’ve been better.



Songs to download: “I made out with your boyfriend” & “In your touch”


7.) Infinity by Band of Horses
With a wispy voice and honest lyrics, Band of Horses truly shined with this album. This album delivered more than their previous two weren’t able to, even though they were good. Even though some credits slammed some of their lyrics, the album still holds true to my heart, because it was constant replay through my summer.



Songs to download: “Blue Bread” & “Compliment”


6.) The Twilight Saga: Eclipse Soundtrack

The movies are beyond weird, but the one thing that really attracts my attention to the teeny popper series are the amazing soundtracks that accompany each movie. The music supervisor for this movie needs to receive the highest praise because this album had me from start to finish. The selection of indie artist really got me. Bat for Lashes, Florence and The Machine, The Black Keys and Vampire Weekend provide unique songs for this album.



Songs to download: “Let’s get lost” & “Heavy in your arms”

5.)Scott Pilgrim vs. The World Movie Soundtrack
I was amped for this movie and it left me in the mood to play every video game from my child hood. The album makes the movie twenty times better, and I guess I have Beck to thank for that. The album is able to grasp the listener with the variety of a nerd in love songs and the heavy riffs. Along with Beck, are the Black Lips, Metric, and The Rolling Stones. The album is more than likely to show that video games and music go hand in hand sometimes. Some songs on the album have that gritty garage sound.



Songs to download: “It’s getting boring by the Sea” & “Sleazy bed track”


4.)Come Around Sundown by Kings Of Leon
I wasn’t too keen on everybody hopping on the bandwagon of this band after “Use Somebody” but screw them. This album makes me want to kidnap the whole band so they can sing me to sleep every night, hell they can even provide the background music to my life. This album is perfect for a day out at the beach just enjoying the waves. Even with the southern sound, I couldn’t draw myself away from.



Songs to Download: "The Face" & "Mary"


3.) Sigh no more by Mumford & Sons
The bluegrass indie rock band was able to throw off some fans with their music as they illuminate the raspiness of Kings of Leon, the soul of Fleet Foxes and the bluegrass banjo of the Avett Brothers. It’s very rare for a band with a banjo to be certified platinum in the U.K. March 2010. The tracks start out slow, but slowly pick up pace with Mumford’s raspy voice leaving you in a heartbroken trance. The album has a solid acoustic sound, with an old fashion sound. The lyrics are intertwined with the pleadings of a hopeless and sensitive romantic. “Little Lion Man” has gritty vocals and strong instrumental interludes. The powerful vocals are also featured on “I Gave You All” and “Sigh No More” The folk sound the band embodies is thoroughly heard in each song. Much of the album conveys the emotions of love, lost and dealing with the struggles that life throws. The album is defiantly album to grasp a hold of soul.




Songs to download: “Thistle and Weeds” & “ I Gave You All”



2.)Brothers by The Black Keys
The Black Keys never disappoint, especially with this album. The album displays the psychedelic blues-rock bands true sound and it’s a true gem among the albums of 2010. It’s established the band as top sellers landing in the Billboard Top 10 in the first week of release. “Tighten Up” is of the lyrics of a love stricken man vying for affection. Each track on the album is highly infectious with Dan Auerbach’s vocals and Patrick Carney’s drumming abilities.





Songs to download: “Everlasting Light” & “Too Afraid to Love You”


And Drumroll please...



1.)Contra by Vampire Weekend
Vampire Weekend has established themselves as the indie rock band of this generation. With their fast guitar riffs and out of the box lyrics the band can draw just about anyone to their music. And after seeing them live, there isn’t one doubt in my mind that this album deserves the number one slot. I haven’t gotten sick of this album and it’s been out since January. I love everything about this album; the lyrics, the guitar riffs, the slow tempo in some songs…everything. They top my list of the most unique bands around.



Songs to download: “Taxi Cab” & “I Think UR a Contra” …Actually all of them would suffice.





Honorable mentions:
Catching a Tiger by Lissie 
Broken Bells by Broken Bells
The Sea by Corrine Bailey Rae
Teen Dream by Beach House
Permalight by Rogue Wave
The Winter of Mixed Drinks by Frightened Rabbit

FeFe Dobson...does another poppy song.

FeFe Dobson is beginning to make me not want her new album which is slated for release at the end of November. Her first three singles weren't that bad, but I can see this one annoying me fast.

On the plus side: she looks amazing in the video.

New Paramore video

Paramore just released their new video for, "Playing God"  their 4th single off of "Brand New Eyes". And yes, I've already played the video numerous of times...It's that badass.

‘Pilgrim’ soundtrack reflects movie

“We are Sex Bob-Omb!1, 2, 3, 4…” is the first lyric blaring when the play button is selected for “The Scott Pilgrim vs. the World” Soundtrack.

It’s a very rare occurrence when a movie soundtrack can match the level of greatness the movie personifies.“The Scott Pilgrim vs. the World” Soundtrack is in those high ranks of an ear popping soundtrack.

The soundtrack was release three days before the film on Aug. 10. The album is able to hold on to a true nerd’s attention by having video game influenced music.

With the help of musical brain child Beck, it’s far from being horrible. Along with Beck, are the Black Lips, Metric, and the Rolling Stones. The album is more than likely to show that video games and music go hand in hand sometimes. With the movie following the love life of a geek who’s also a bass guitarist for the band Sex Bob-omb, some songs on the album have that gritty garage sound.

The 19 track album complements the movie precisely and accurately shows each band’s work. Most of the movie’s actors generously helped with the album by providing some of their own vocals on three of the Sex Bob-omb songs.

Actor Michael Cera, who played the lead character in the movie, Scott Pilgrim, provided vocals also. He also played bass guitar in majority of the tracks. The soundtrack is filled with grunge pop / indie rock angst songs including ballads.

Beck helped pen most of the album, along with the movie’s director having a huge part in the song selection. Some songs were made before the movie was even thought off such as, “I heard Ramona sing” by Frank Black.

The L.A. based band Beachwood Sparks covered a song by smooth R&B singer Sade. The song, “By your side” has more of an indie feel to it. The majority of the songs have vocals that are on point along with a fluid string of grunge rock to follow it.

The lyrics serve as a bittersweet memory for the main characters in the movie. Each song has the ability to verbally blast through the headphones and make the grunge sound acceptable.

 The director did a brilliant job with selecting songs for the movie, because it’s easy for the listener to think of what scene the song would go with. Even though the movie did not do so well in the theatres, the soundtrack was able to peak at number two on the Billboard Soundtracks chart.

The soundtrack goes beyond all the expectations of any listener; it has the ability to punch the sound into the headphones perfectly. It’s the mix of the garage punk sound and the smooth rock ballads that keep the ears wanting more.

Here's my favorite song off the album "It's getting boring by the sea" by Blood Red Shoes.

Vampire Weekend dominate the stage in Raleigh

Lead singer of Vampire Weekend, Ezra Koeing strums away on his guitar during the band’s  performance of “California English”from their second studio album, Contra.

The Indie rock band, Vampire Weekend, concluded the North American leg of their world tour on Oct. 17 in Raleigh.

The concert opened up with Baltimore, Md. based band Beach House.

The indie rock duo of Victoria Legrand (vocals and organ) and Alex Scally (guitar and keyboards) formed in 2004.

Beach House took the stage at approximately 7:30 p.m. and played a set list that lasted around 45 minutes.

Their stage design, which included purple tinted lights and a starry night backdrop, was meant to convey the concept of their third full album entitled Teen Dream.

Teen Dream is the band’s first release after signing onto the Sub Pop record label.

The band’s genre of music has been classified as “dream pop” due to their songs slowed down tempo and atmospheric rhythms that come from the band’s sound structure and haunting harmonies provided by the lead and backing vocalists.



Vampire Weekend performs  at the Raleigh Amphitheatre on Oct. 17. The performance marked their last show in America before they embark on their world tour.



This genre of music has remained dormant for years but may be approaching a second generation revival with Beach House currently leading the way.

This was definitely noticeable when the band played the first track off Teen Dream, entitled “Zebra,” which also serves as the inspiration for the design of the album cover. The song has caught on after being used in an episode of the CW’s hit show, Gossip Girl.

It was because of this exposure that many people use this song to get into Beach House and why it was the only song from their set that a substantial number of concert goers recognized and cheered for after only a few notes.

Other than “Zebra,” the band played select songs from all three of their albums, including their first two independent releases, Devotion and their self titled debut.

The band’s blend of ambient sounds and synth pop complemented the headlining act of Vampire Weekend extremely well.

In between sets, the audience was transported to the 90s with bands such as Boys II Men playing on the loud speakers.

Vampire Weekend rushed to the stage with the rap song, “All I do is Win” by Dj Khaled blaring from the speakers.

Vampire Weekend hails from New York City. Each band member attended Columbia University.

The band opened up with “Holiday,” a single from their second album, Contra. Contra has gained high marks in the industry, some even naming it one of the best albums of 2010.

It was also their first album to gain the number one spot on the billboard charts.

The lawn was filled with a subtle dancing mosh pit of fans. The mosh pit was perhaps the most dance synchronized mosh pit ever to appear at a concert.

Vampire Weekend has established themselves as the indie rock band of this generation. With their fast guitar riffs and out of the box lyrics the band can draw just about anyone to their music.

Along with their fast paced riffs, they performed a number of chilled out songs, such as “Taxi Cab” and “Horchata.”

They also performed amost every single from their two studio albums, minus “The Kid Don’t Stand a Chance.”

As a beach ball was being bounced around in the crowd during songs, the band said that this was their first time in Raleigh. “We couldn’t ask for better weather,” lead singer Ezra Koeing said.

Koening also asked the audience to put their hands in the air and wiggle their fingers, “It’s an amazing sea of humanity,” he said.

They played “I think UR a Contra,” from the album Contra. They said it was their last time playing the song in the U.S.

The band contributed a single, “Jonathon Low” to The Twilight Saga: Eclipse soundtrack. The album debuted at number two on the billboard charts in June.

The audience stayed lively and energetic throughout the night, never missing a beat.

They ended the night with three encores, “Horchata,” “Walcott” and “Mansford Roof”.

Kings of Leon backtracks to Southern roots

Kings Of Leon’s previous album, Only by the Night, was the perfect album to sit around to at night with a warm drink and snuggle up to the fireplace.


Come around Sundown is the perfect album to play while sitting on the beach and watching the sunset.

This album cannot disappoint hardcore Kings of Leon fans.

Kings of Leon has redeemed themselves among their loyal fans with their new album Come Around Sundown. The 13 track album was released on Oct. 19 in the U.S. This is their fifth studio album.

The first single “Radioactive,” hasn't been highly received on the charts yet, but the album is sure to top the charts. The remix version of “Radioactive” has a children’s choir singing the chorus towards the end. But, in the album version they are not featured.

The heart wrenching ballad, “The End” is able to tug at the strings of any lonely heart. The lyric, “I just wanna hold you…Take you by your hand…And tell you that you’re good enough,” makes the idea of love seem in reach.

There’s more country and soul in this album, almost like their second album Aha Shake Heartbreak.

Their fourth album, Only by the Night, was a way to make the band more mainstream. Come Around Sundown may have the ability to make the mainstream fans appreciate their sound more.

It also has the ability to make them break away from that mainstream sound.

The album cover art accurately depicts the overall mellow vibe of the album.

Caleb Followill’s voice is the most unique in the rock genre. His ability to match his rugged voice with the Kings Of Leon sound is unbelievable.

The iTunes deluxe version of the album features a new song called “Celebration,” along with the remixed version of “Radioactive.” Another version of the single “Closer” from their previous album is also featured on the deluxe version.

Noticeable songs that are a must buy are “Mary,” “The Face,” and “Beachside.”

The bandmates returned to their true Tennessee Southern roots, which gave the album a more relaxing feel. But, they produced the album in New York City.

The album is easily going to make the top albums of 2010 list.

Every song on the album has the hint of familiarity with the band’s sound, but it’s a new way of the band accepting that they are now mainstream, even if it took Kings Of Leon four albums to make that so.

Song of the week (October 4th)

"Stranger things have happened" by Foo Fighters