I had an appendectomy last week. Definitely not something I recommend, though it has meant a lot of time to listen to music. Here are some highlights from my week of convalescence in our first Weekly Roundup.
-When you aren't feeling well, it helps to hear a really rocking tune to boost your spirits. This track "(All I Wanted Was) Danger" byThe Milk is like medicine that will have you feeling great in no time. With nods to various musical eras, this is a potent mix of power pop and r&b. I dig the horns, the soulful vocals, and the catchiness of the guitar. The track and its b-side "Dynamite," officially drops March 28, but you can stream to your heart's content at soundcloud.
The Milk – (All I Wanted Was) Danger by Proper Music Distribution
-There is just something about Sweden and its wealth of excellent pop/rock music. It hits the spot for me pretty much every time. Have a listen to Those Dancing Days for my latest fix. Also, after watching the cool video for the song (embedded below), I was struck that it seems uncommon to see a band made of five members in their early 20s who are all female, when I have probably seen a video like this for similar all male bands hundreds of times. Not sure what it means, but I do know this is great music regardless. "I'll Be Yours" is from Those Dancing Days forthcoming album Daydreams and Nightmares, which will be released in the US March 1.
Those Dancing Days – I'll Be Yours
-It is always a delight to discover a good local or regional band, and Lohio is one such example. They are from Pittsburgh. With their large band size that includes members of both sexes and multiple instruments, in addition to the dynamics of their sound, it is not hard to make some comparisons to Arcade Fire. This track "Adelai" from their recently released EP Family Tree reminds me a lot of Sufjan Stevens, particularly the work of the horns and xylophones and the melody whenever they sing "Adelai."
Lohio just made a video for this song. It is a creative at childhood. It emphasizes the power of imagination at this time, while also showing that an active mind can make traumatic moments even more intense. Very poignant. Check it out below. Also, for our Erie (and surrounding area) readers, Lohio will be playing a hometown show in Pittsburgh at the Thunderbird on Saturday February 19. They are probably a great a live band.