DOM ; Band of the Week Aug. 6th - 12th

That time again? Stop, I know I'm late.

I thought I would share with you lot a band that I discovered last year while at Seattle's Bumbershoot Music and Arts Festival. Since seeing them, I've purchased both of their EP's, finding that they are equally as good on track as they are in person. I feel like I always appreciate a band more when I discover them live.

This is DOM, ladies and gents. An indie rock quartet from Massachusetts who'll fool you into believing they hail from the sandy beaches of SoCal. Their music is reminiscent of a new-age Beach Boys... Perfect tunes for the surfing brood, and all beach bums alike. I don't regret getting dragged to their set that September day in 2011. DOM's become one of my favorites, but this goes without saying.

Dom, Bobby, Erik, and Dylan make up the foursome with the two EP's that captured PitchFork Media and Spin's attention over the past 2 years. Having formed in January 2010, DOM is fresh and ready to take flight. Songs such as Jesus from EP Sun Bronzed Greek Gods (2010) and Damn from EP Family of Love (2011) have reeled fans in by the thousands... and perhaps a few more after this post?

It's honestly difficult not the like these guys. They're fun, collective, and different. Although they characterize that typical indie rock genre, they also have unique ideas. I feel like they won't just be thrown into the ocean of lo-fi bands... they'll stand out. At least to my ears.

Enhance your final weeks of summer with an earful of DOM! .rapt's Band of the Week August 6th-12th.

OFFICIAL WEBSITE

Neon Indian ; Band of the Week July 30th - August 5th

Hey. I know. It's not the 30th. It's the 1st. You'd be late updating your blog too if you were consistently job searching and shitting yourself every time you try and get anywhere on the multiple freeways of doom around here. San Diego, you will either make or break me.

What's this psychedelic color-fest that you're viewing? A few synthesizers, echoing bass, and hypnotic vocals? This is none other than Neon Indian, lot. One of my favorite bands and .rapt's Band of the Week!

I think I discovered this lone soul in the Fall of 2011. His latest record had dropped and I happened to come across it sporadically on iTunes. My ears were pleased. This is exactly the type of music that I pine for 90% of the time.... Unique, weird, and drenched in reminiscent 80's sound. You can't get much more awesome than that! Neon Indian was one of the sets that I made sure to catch at Coachella 2012, and I wasn't disappointed.

Originating from Mexico and later relocating to Texas, founder and composer Alan Palomo began realizing his musical calling during his teenaged years. Debut album Psychic Chasms was released October 13th, 2009, which hit the right note with highly acclaimed Pitchfork Media, among many others. In September 2011, Era Extrana was let loose, doing it's job in reeling me in like a cod. Currently at the ripe age of 23 and with 2 successful records on the rise, Palomo represents the notion that the youth of today can acheieve anything; standing strong in premise creativity. 
Palomo does all of his own work, but accompanying him on his live ventures are band members  Leanne Macomber (Keyboard, Vocals), Jason Faries (drums), and Lars Larsen (Live Visuals). Together they've played at dozens of music festivals including SXSW, Coachella, Sasquatch!, and upcoming Lollapalooza 2012 and have performed on NBC's Late Night with Jimmy Fallon. This Texan kid is moving up in the world fast and I plan to remain loyal to his extravagant display of synthpop for as long as my heart holds out.

If you're looking for something new to listen to, maybe something to inspire you to dig deeper into your psyche, look no further than Palomo's Neon Indian. Era Extrana is my favorite record, I love the way it makes me feel...Like I'm floating off of this smog-infested planet into a world much greater and colorful. Best track by me: Halogen (I could be a Shadow)....It's pleasant, while also enigmatic. Don't you love my descriptive words today?

All big phrases considered, check Neon Indian out, lot! If you've been clueless to this band before now, then consider this my gift to you for the month of August.

WEBSITE
TOUR DATES

And so my new life begins....

I'm on my way to my new home in sunny San Diego! I'll miss Washington.... but not the rain. It was hard to say goodbye, especially to my mother and pup. But it's time to go out and see what life has to offer me...Try to find my happiness. I know it's out there somewhere.

Today (July 19th) was the first half of my two day journey south.... Just me, my car 'The Power', and anything I could fit in her. It's been great, one big cluster-F of a road trip. I can feel all my clutter weighing my poor hatchback down... But we'll get there, slow but sure. I'm currently spending the night in a quaint little motel with no food except tea to satisfy me until morning. Just one of the many pleasant things I've encountered throughout my long, unending day. I'm slightly alarmed that I'm still coherent.

I've wanted for a long time to incorporate more of my life into .rapt, rather than just focusing on music.... Despite the fact that music is a large part of my life. Maybe you (the reader) and I have more in common than we think?  It would be cool to find out, possibly? I don't know, bare with me while I try some new stuff out.

I am angry with myself though for not featuring a Band of the Week for quite some time, so from now until the 30th, let's throw M83 at your ears.
 I'm sure most of you know of this collaborative band already, but in case you don't..... PLEASE LISTEN. It took me several years to truly appreciate their music, but once I gave M83 more of a chance, I was hooked. Everything about their music screams inspiration to me. I don't think there's been a day since April that I haven't listened to at least one of their songs.


There are many, but give these particular tracks a listen:
Steve McQueen (Hurry Up, We're Dreaming record), Don't Save Us From The Flames (Before the Dawn Heals Us record), Graveyard Girls (Saturdays=Youth record), Kim & Jessie (Saturdays=Youth record), Reunion (Hurry Up, We're Dreaming record), Teen Angst (Before the Dawn Heals Us record), We Own the Sky (Saturdays=Youth record), and Claudia Lewis (Hurry Up, We're Dreaming record.

Don't get me wrong. All tracks on each record are immaculate, but these are my personal favorites.

OFFICIAL WEBSITE 

As much as I want to go on about my day, I think it would probably be wise to get some sleep with what little time I have to do it. I still have to take on the majority of California tomorrow.
Despite what people have told me about CA (good things or bad things) I intend to base my judgment of the state and the people in it on my own experiences. So if any of you are locals, make a good impression on me! So far, I have nothing but good feelings.

Wish me luck, lot!

Two Weeks and Counting....+ The Naked & Famous ; Band of the Week April 2nd - 8th

While those of you Weekend 1 goers have already packed your bags, us Weekend 2 brood are still stewing and prepping for our time to shine. Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival 2012 Weekend 2 is officially two weeks away....and I more than have my hands full with preparations for the Southwestern journey!

Though I still feel the need to add to my collection of festival attire, I keep reminding myself that the last time I was in Indio, clothing was far from necessary. If you're a first-timer and you're fretting about what to wear to the festival, STOP. Fashion is important and all, but the forecast will range between high 70's to low 90's during both weekends. If you wear anything more than a pair of shorts and a light-weight top you're going to regret it. When it comes down to the nit-grid, a good swim suit, shorts, and some breathable, light-colored shirts or dresses are all that's needed. Don't try and over-do it. You've already spent enough money buying your fest passes, paying for gas or airline tickets, and reserving campsites. Don't spend more money shopping! If you do have the mula to splurge, save it for band merch or food instead! Trust me, clothing is the least of your worries. I myself bought a new swim suit that I plan on wearing with a few breezy tops. I purchased some new sandals and sunglasses and a good fest tote also, but anything more and I know I'd be wishing I hadn't. Coachella is an amazing event, but it is also on the expensive side. You'll want to salvage as much fundage as possible to leave room for the unexpected!

Enough of my advice for the evening.



I've decided to toss a Band of the Week out for you guys...since I have homework to do tonight and I'd rather do something else.
I haven't done Band of the Week in almost a year! Curse my horrid lazy habits..... I apologize to any .rapt readers who keep up with my blog for the sheer reason of discovering new music. FALK. I'll be a better music blogger from now on.

The Naked and Famous, a band that has currently captured my soul in their rapturous sounds, is a New Zealand-bred indie rock quintet who formed in 2008. Band members include Aaron Short; electronics and producer, Alisa Xayalith; vocals and keys, David Beadle; bass, Jesse Wood; drums, and Thom Powers; vocals, guitars, and producer.


Releasing 2 EP's at the beginning of their rein, This Machine (2008), and No Light (2008) under label Round Trip Mars, The Naked and Famous went on to record and produce their debut album Passive Me, Aggressive You in early Autumn 2010 beneath their own label Somewhat Damaged. The songs on this album not only inspire a group of people to get up and move, but the lyrics are driven and enthralling, sending chills up your spine as Alisa and Thom's vocals shout out youthful promises to the stars.

My first time hearing their work was this past year while watching the snowboard culture film The Art of Flight. Tracks Young Blood and No Way caught my attention and later led me to purchase their album on iTunes. It was no surprise that I fell in love instantly. I highly recommend The Naked and Famous to anyone needing a motivational-boost in concurring the world. Favorite track Young Blood (featured below) makes me feel like I can do anything if I set my mind to it....like life is being handed to me and all I have to do is just reach out and grab it.


Passive Me, Aggressive You can be purchased on iTunes or at your local record shop.

Official Website

Give them a chance, lot.

Ringo Deathstarr ; Band of the Week May 16th - 22nd

Unhinged from the norm, Ringo Deathstarr has succeeded in quaking the seams of my skull in sonic reverbs and sound. Ghostly reminders of a distant tomorrow beam through the echo-enhanced lyrics; a better life, far from this one, looking through fog towards the sun.

Active since 2007, this shoegaze band from Austin, TX has been serging through playlists and opening ears of the youth across the states with singles such as So High and In Love. Since their debut EP released in 07, s/t Ringo Deathstarr, there have been notable records including Sparkler, released in 2009, and most recent 2011's Colour Trip. Labeled by Club AC30 (UK & Europe), Sonic Unyon (USA / Canada), and Vinyl Junkie (Japan), members Elliott Frazier, Daniel coborn, and Alex gehring have been influenced by names such as The Jesus And Mary Chain, My Bloody Valentine, and The Cure.

Currently [ON TOUR] Dates Listed Here.
What draws me in is the unique attitude they possess as a group. You can see it in their homemade-looking music videos and the humor expressed between each member. Their mission is to make true music and have fun doing it, leaving out the stern image some artists tend to convey. This lot can easily be associated with any one of their listeners, and that is what attracts me to them.
Have a listen and see for yourself, .rapt's Band of the Week Ringo Deathstarr won't let you down.

YOUTUBE PLAYLIST.

Fitz and The Trantrums; BAND OF THE WEEK May 9th - 15th

If this doesn't grab your ears and yank them into pleasureful sensations of musical excellence, then your taste in genre is questionable...
Of course, I say that lightly. When I first heard MoneyGrabber, I thought it was a refurbished song from the 60's! But then of course research proved that it is very much a present-day single by the soulful indie pop sounds of Fitz and The Tantrums!
In commemoration to their announced presence in the future lineup of Seattle's Bumbershoot 2011, .rapt is featuring this emotional mess as Band of the Week!

What began with an old church organ purchased by Michael Fitzpatrick would ultimately fuel the inspirations that brought together the creative collaborations of James King, Joseph Karnes, Jeremy Ruzumna, John Wicks, and vocal brilliance Noelle Scaggs. Together these individuals would form a modern-day replica of Motown vibrancy; infectious to listen to, adding some extra groove to indie pop.

Currently [ON TOUR] (Dates listed here)
Labeled by Dangerbird Records, Fits and The Tantrums' discography includes a debut EP released in 2009 titled Songs for a Breakup: Vol. 1, and a full-length record released in 2010 titled Pickin' Up the Pieces.
(Both available for purchase on itunes.)

What lures me to Fitz and The Tantrums are not only expression tracks such as Winds of Change (video below) and Darkest Street, but also the classic and almost jazzy aura their songs usher. It's refreshing to hear the influence of older genres collide with new to create a fantastic musical experience.

Check out Fitz and The Tantrums, lot. You won't be sorry.
OFFICIAL SITE.
YOUTUBE TRACK LISTS.

The Kills - Band of the Week May 2nd - 8th

Over 10 years of excellence and this band still brings the rock with their newest record Blood Pressures.
Currently [ON TOUR]...TOUR DATES LISTED HERE.
What does one get when they mix an edgy female vocalist from the states with a brilliant guitarist from the UK? A seductive mess of garage revival and indie rock that, if listened to loud enough, can be felt at the inner core.
The Kills, whom have been active from 2000-Present, have stopped at nothing to bring the sprouting youth record after stunning record of gracious noise since their debut release in 2003. Many of us have grown up with The Kills, and although they are not the freshest fish from the adverbial sea, their newest record and tour has inspired me to feature them as .rapt's Band of the Week to kick off May.

Backed by Labels which include Domino Records, Rough Trade Records, and RCA Records, singer Alison Mosshart ("VV") and British guitarist Jamie Hince ("Hotel") have worked through highs and lows to bring us such notable disography as:
Black Rooster EP, released May 28th 2002,
Debut record Keep Your Mean Side, released April 1st, 2003,
EP Fried My Little Brains, exclusively released in Japan in 2003.
2005's Run Home Slow EP,
tailed by their second record; No Wow, released February 21st, 2005.
2008's third record, Midnight Boom, released on March 10th.
An EP in 2009 titled Black Balloon.
And at last The Kills' latest record, Blood Pressures, released April 4th, 2011.
(All EP's and Record's available for purchase on itunes.)

Singles from these great records and EP's include 2003's Fuck the People, Fried my Little Brains, and Pull a U.
2005's The Good Ones (video below) and Love is a Deserter.
2006's No Wow.
U.R.A Fever (video below), Cheap and Cheerful, and Last Day of Magic in 2008.
2009's Tape Song (video below), Black Balloon, and Willow Weep for Me (Frank Sinatra Cover.)
And most recent 2011's single Satellite.




Described heavily as a mixture between The Clash, Steeleye Span, and The Rubettes, the duo have made a name for themselves over the years as an experimental art rock band that began with a drum machine and now play with the real stuff at gigs across the globe. If there was a band I could listen to while walking the rainy streets of Seattle or sitting on a hotel fire escape, The Kills would be it. Their sound is melodic, in a way. An outlandish rock experience from track to track.

Have a listen, lot. And check out The Kills' Site for more information on upcoming tour dates, Blood Pressure tracks, and VV and Hotel themselves.

STARFUCKER ; Band of the Week Apr. 25th - May 1st

Currently [ON TOUR]...Tour Dates Listed Here.
Captivated by songs such as Bury Us Alive, Julius, Reptilians, and Florida....the band Starfucker (tour pronunciation "STRFKR)" have done an intensely satisfying job in pleasuring my ears. Upon first discovering them, their upbeat sound and creative beats have never failed to produce that harmonious indie electro-pop vibe we've all come to know, love, and respect.
Don't let the inappropriate band name hinder your impression; their music greatly makes up for it.

Originating from Portland, Oregon, members Joshua Hodges (vocals, keyboards, guitar, drums), Ryan Biornstad (guitar, keyboard, vocals, turntables), Shawn Glassford (bass, keyboards, drums), and Keil Corcoran (drums, keyboards, vocals) have worked together since 2007 on discography including:
[Burnin' Up] EP, released in 2008
Followed by Debut record [Starfucker] also released in 2008.
2009's EP [Jupiter]
2010's EP [Starfucker B-sides] and single [Julius].
And their recent March 2011 released record [Reptilians].
(all available on itunes)

Under the support of their label Polyvinyl Records, Starfucker has reaped the benefits of the music world quite nicely since their initiation in 2008. Prominently going through band names such as "PYRAMID" and "Pyramiddd," early 2010 became the momentous year their permanent name Starfucker would stick....proving that profanity has its perks. The media has certainly had it's share of tunage approval... Notable instance when in 2009, Target grabbed popular track Rawnald Gregory Erickson the Second and threw it in with their "Pink Pepto" commercial. Long before any knowledge of the band, I remember hearing the catchy tune and enjoying it.

Although the band has had it's successes, there have in equivalence been plenty of scrutinizing. Obvious reasons would subject to their band name; however there have been criticizing reviews over live shows....where in the past, band members have dressed in women's clothing as a gag.

This is also seen in their music video for German Love (below). However, the band recognizes that they are in a unique position for harsh critique, and in similar regards, vocalist Hodges mentions that they chose the name "Starfucker" based on the curiosity of how far the band could get "with a stupid name like that."


Whether one can take the band seriously, their tracks are killer and their live sets are great to boot.... What more can a listener ask for, except a boldly distinctive character in the band members? But wait, we've been granted that as well.
Lucky us Δ

Starfucker is .rapt's Band of the Week!

COLOURMUSIC ; Apr 18th - 24th Band of the Week

Oh the colors! This week's band of personal choice from Stillwater, Oklahoma hits your eardrums like throwing hard paint against a tin wall.

Debut Record titled [F, Monday, Orange, February, Venus, Lunatic, 1 or 13] released on August 19th 2008.
[YES!] EP released November 1st, 2009
2nd Record titled [It came from Memphis] released September 20th, 2010
[TOG] Single released December 13th, 2010
And finally, their newest record titled [My _____ is pink] available for pre-order on itunes, due to release around May 17th, 2011
Another record is said to be in progress, due out by Spring 2012.
Active 2005-Present
Record Label:
Memphis Industries
A U.S. tour to be expected in the near future.

Reverberating vocals and beats flood out my speakers as I write for .rapt's Band of the Week. What defined sound colors can create! A mix of hardcore and alternative, self-described as Oklahoma sex rock, members Ryan Hendrix and Nick Turner, who met and came together as a music collaboration, evolved into a band when Cory Suter, Nick Ley, and Colin Fleishacker joined in the live shows and became permanent members. Colourmusic has a style unlike any band I've heard in a long time. Mainstream is certainly not their focus; unique tones and powerful backdrops illuminate each track and beg for diversity amongst the typical.

Inspired literally by colors, each song Colourmusic records reflects a certain shade based on the band’s perception. They believe greatly in using the scientific sound and color theory (Isaac Newton) when writing their music.
Vibrant and multihued, this indie band has been regulars at SXSW for several years, have opened for The Flaming Lips during Dfest 2007, and performed with British Sea Power. To add to their building success, Colourmusic appeared on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno during Wayne Coyne's Man on the Street segment at South by Southwest.

Possessing a sound crossed with The Polyphonic Spree and The Flaming Lips, Colourmusic can also be noted for their brilliantly authentic live shows.

This is a band, in my opinion, to expect great things from in the coming year. I'm truly hoping for a U.S. tour this summer, as I've been submerging myself in their music to the point of craving a live gig immensely. First introduced to me by a needless to deny Seattle hipster friend, I can proudly state that he did a good job of exposing me to such tracks as Yes! and TOG....(both music videos seen below;)


Love what you see and hear? Check out COLOURMUSIC'S SITE for news, tour and record updates, and much more.

All records, EP's, and singles are available for purchase on itunes. Check out their music and feel the colors eradicate your mind (in a good way.) Let .rapt know what you think in the comment section below!

Have at it, lot.

[OVERVIEW] Foster the People

Overview connected with blog entry ------> FOSTER THE PEOPLE ; Mar 28th - Apr 3rd Band of the Week


Well hello, lot. I'll be updating my overview later! For now, if you have any thoughts or personal reviews for Foster the People, go ahead and post in the comment section below! Can't wait to hear your opinions.

[Overview] GIVERS

Overview connected with blog entry----> GIVERS ; Mar 21st - 27th Band of the Week


With uplifting beat and energetic vibe, GIVERS is the band everyone should expect great things from. This past week was Spring Break for me, and I thought that GIVERS gave each day a voice. Though the band only harbors 5 songs from their 2009 released EP, each track had it's own energy. I love the vocals provided by Tiffany Lamson, Taylor Guarisco, and Kirby Campbell. Together, they cry out the boisterous and freedom-induced lyrics that make up each song. They're definitely going to provide some great background music for the upcoming summer. My favorite tracks from the EP are Ceiling of Plankton and Saw You First. And obviously, Up Up Up will always be a great track that gets stuck in my head over and over again. The only thing I can say negatively about GIVERS' EP is that I wanted more! Patience will be a lingering thing as I'm eager to grab a copy of their debut album, due to release this spring. I'm looking forward to what the record has to offer.

GIVERS is certainly a mood-lifter. Their lyrics seem to say "Cheer Up!" Spring has sprung and the air is getting warmer. It is good to surround yourself with feel good music in times like these.
Visit itunes for your copy of GIVERS' s/t EP.


Enjoy your listening week with GIVERS? Let .rapt know how this band has treated you! Write your own personal review, however short or long, in the comment section below. Always looking forward to hearing and sharing opinions!

Mar 28st - Apr 3rd Artist/Band of the Week announced March 28st, 2011!

GIVERS ; Mar 21st - 27th Band of the Week

With buoyancy and pizazz, GIVERS from Lafayette, Louisiana takes the stage for .rapt's Band of the Week!

Currently recording their Debut Record, due out Spring 2011.
A current [EP] is available, s/t and s/p GIVERS, which was released in 2009. Tracks available on itunes.
Record Label:
[Glassnote Music]
Recently on tour with band mate friends Ra Ra Riot...
With singular tours this passed January with Pepper Rabbit.

Friends throughout high school and college, GIVERS' band members Tiffany Lamson (vocalist and percussionist), Taylor Guarisco (vocalist and guitarist), Kirby Campbell (drummer and vocalist), and Josh LeBlanc (bassist and guitarist), played with various different groups throughout the Lafayette area before coming together to form what is now an aspiring and energetic collection of young musicians, proving themselves in the Indie music industry. Since emerging with their self-produced [EP] in 2009, GIVERS have toured with subjected bands such as Ra Ra Riot and Dirty Projectors. Named “Best of What’s Next” by PASTE Magazine. And “Band to Watch” by Stereogum, GIVERS is rapidly climbing the ladder to success with songs such as Up Up Up and Saw you First.

There's truly a 'Vampire Weekend' sort of vibe about them. Described as psychedelic, homegrown exoticism, and rattling optimism/joy.
GIVERS' recently performed at Austin TX's SXSW 2011 with an uplifting and vibrant rendition of their song Up Up Up.

You can really feel their music...and watching their performance, you can quite literally see how passionate and connected they are to delivering amazing sounds.

With their genuine antics, GIVERS is the band to listen to this week!

What to do?;
Each Monday, I announce an artist or band here on .rapt that I'll be engulfing myself in for an approximated 6-7 days. I invite everyone to do the same! At the end of the listening week, return to .rapt and post your comments on my [ARTIST/BAND OVERVIEW] blog entry (posted every Sunday) expressing how that artist/band has impacted you. Do a mini-review; express your likes, dislikes, or how the music made you feel. I'll also articulate my point of view and musings in my blog entry and discuss everyone's opinions!
I mostly cover newer bands as a way to get some names in indie rock out there! Together, we can discover new bands and fuel fresh inspirations through music. I would love everyone to participate! Doesn’t matter who you are...if you love music, then give it a go.

[Overview] will be posted Sunday, March 27th! Catch you then, lot.

[OVERVIEW] Broken Bells

Overview connected with blog entry ------> BROKEN BELLS ; Mar 14th - 20th Band of the Week


The melodic, soothing, humming 80's space rock of Broken Bells filled my head this past week. Perfectly timed with the SuperMoon engagement on Saturday the 19th, this band is ideal for just lying in some grass and staring up at the night sky. A brilliant source of ‘slice of life’ tunes, best listened to during daily grinds. Driving home with the moon beaming in my rear-view mirror, I felt connected with the natural night life around me as James Mercer’s voice blared through my speakers.
The sounds are reminiscent to the genres of the past...reflecting, to me, much of the sounds of the 80's. There's a slight early U2 in their style. The lyrics make me think of what's to come in the future, but keeping in mind the memories of the past. Edgy space-age mixed with earthly elements.

I truly would love to see a new record released by Broken Bells in the next couple years...there's so much potential brewing amongst the rustic guitars and colorful collection of drums and voices. James Mercer and Brian Burton's collaboration complement each other in both lyric and vibe. To see two rousing artists come together to create an even more stirring anthology of music captivates me and drives the desire for more of their work.
Two of their best pieces from my perspective are Vaporize and The Mall and Misery. I could drift away on those tracks any day.

Reminder: Broken Bells' [EP] release comes out March 29th, 2011, titled [MEYRIN FIELDS] (PRE-ORDER YOUR COPY HERE)
And please support Broken Bells' s/t debut record Broken Bells by visiting your itunes store and purchasing your own copy of tracks. It is most definitely worth your while.


Enjoy your listening week with Broken Bells? Let .rapt know how this band has treated you! Write your own personal review, however short or long, in the comment section below. Always looking forward to hearing and sharing opinions!

Mar 21st - 27th Artist/Band of the Week announced March 21st, 2011!

BROKEN BELLS ; Mar 14th - 20th Band of the Week

This week's band creates a melting sensation in my left hipster bone.

Debut record released in 2010, s/t [BROKEN BELLS]
Followed by an [EP] to be released March 29th, 2011, titled [MEYRIN FIELDS]
(Available for pre-order now)
The band has four released singles, including "The High Road," "The Ghost Inside," and "October," All released in 2009
And "Vaporize," released in 2011
Record Label:
[Columbia]
No tour dates currently.

Broken Bells is the collaborative work of two fine artists; James Mercer (lead singer of The Shins) and Brian Burton (aka Danger Mouse of Gnarls Barkley and producer behind Gorillaz.) Their tracks have been strung about my winter months like a well-favored sweater. Upon my arrival at one of their songs on my ipod the other day, I decided to partake in a listening week with all of you, to share the brilliance this band has to offer!

Mercer and Burton first encountered one another at the Roskilde Festival (a Danish music fest) in the summer of 2004. Both fans of each others work, they deemed to participate in one another's careers at some point. It wasn't until 2008 that they began formulating the foundation which would become Broken Bells, in Burton's LA-based studio.
By late 2009, they announced the band's activity and have continued to play strong to the present day. With a successful 2010 tour and solidly released record, they have struck a cord with the indie/space rock crowd. Their mellow, but experimental sounds mix an 80's vibe with a modern-day alternative jab to the ear-drums. Mercer's treble voice initiates a distinct product that allows the band to stand out broadly amongst the ever-expanding loud, in-your-face genres of the new decade.

“I think with a lot of my writing I’m trying to break somebody’s heart out there... I’ve always been attracted to that same melancholy in music; so I get what he’s talking about.” -James Mercer on working with Danger Mouse in a QTV interview, found HERE.

I find Broken Bells, while low-key, to be witty and calming all at once. I invite everyone to participate in some listening this week, and perhaps discover a keen fondness over a crisp band!

What to do?;
Each Monday, I announce an artist or band here on .rapt that I'll be engulfing myself in for an approximated 6-7 days. I invite everyone to do the same! At the end of the listening week, return to .rapt and post your comments on my [ARTIST/BAND OVERVIEW] blog entry (posted every Sunday) expressing how that artist/band has impacted you. Do a mini-review; express your likes, dislikes, or how the music made you feel. I'll also articulate my point of view and musings in my blog entry and discuss everyone's opinions!
I mostly cover newer bands as a way to get some new names in indie rock out there! Together, we can discover new bands and fuel fresh inspirations through music. I would love everyone to participate! Doesn’t matter who you are...if you love music, then give it a go.

[Overview] will be posted Sunday, March 20th! See you then!

[OVERVIEW] Beach Fossils

Overview connected with blog entry ----> BEACH FOSSILS ; Mar 7th - 13th Band of the Week

The rusty echo of a summer long ago. Running through sand towards an open blue sea; the vast thing. Envisioning something in the future; the voices of appending warm air. A considerably wide sky and the perceptive words spoken to it. Tepid, positive, and sincere.

Beach Fossils' Chris Burke, John Pena, Tommy Lucas, and Dustin Payseur come together to create a vision of longevity through their lyrics; weaving insightful statements into their lulling guitar notes. Whether one cares or means to understand what their songs are saying, you eventually appreciate them as you listen to the softly sharp melodies and distance tones. Vocalist/songwriter Payseur has truly managed to construct an indie surf band that has moved me.

I find it to be easy-listening; Good music to take a drive or contemplate life to. I can easily see myself planning out a future excursion with 'DayDream' playing in the background. Beach Fossils' sound is ideal for simply thriving in day to day life, in a calm and nature-induced mindset. During my listening week, I did a lot of in-town traveling while Beach Fossils serenaded me and my accomplices. My roomie and best friend asked; "Who is this?" I let her in on my Beach Fossils tunes and she immediately wanted to collect some tracks of her own. It makes for great wake up and start your day music.
Overall, my preferred tracks thus far have been 'Sometimes', 'Daydream', 'The Horse', and 'Lazy Day.'

I'd love to do a record review of their latest album What a Pleasure. Until then, I'll continue to wrap myself up beside the beach and float away with Beach Fossils in my ears.
Reminder: Beach Fossils is currently [ON TOUR]
Here are the US Tour Dates HERE
And UK Tour Dates HERE

Visit itunes store for your own copy of tracks from both their self-titled debut record Beach Fossils (2010) and their 2011 record released March 8th: What a Pleasure.

Hope everyone had a great listening week!

I would still love to hear some of your own perspectives and views of Beach Fossils. Leave your comments below if you have any! Or just sit there with your good looks. As long as you had a chance to discover a fresh band, I've done my job.

Mar 14th - 20th Band/Artist of the Week announced tomorrow!

BEACH FOSSILS ; Mar 7th - 13th Band of the Week

Without further ado, .rapt presents its first weekly Artist/Band!

Debut Record released in 2010, self titled [BEACH FOSSILS]
Followed by a second record released in 2011, titled [WHAT A PLEASURE]
Record Labels:
[Captured Tracks, Popfrenzy]
Currently [ON TOUR] ----Tour dates for U.S. listed HERE-----
-----UK Tour Dates listed HERE----

Beach Fossils originated in Brooklyn, New York City, from the long-winds of Dustin Payseur (James Dustin Payseur), a unique poet and multi-instrumental youth. "If something moves you, you shouldn’t be ashamed by it,” says the North Carolina native in a New York Press article (found here). Together with guitarist Chris Burke, bassist John Pena, and drummer Tommy Lucas, vocals/lyrics provided by Payseur, the foursome shaped Beach Fossils in early 2009 and have since climbed into the ears of listeners across the U.S., surely to be playing in the background of our soon-to-be 2011 summer days.



I was immediately drawn to their tunes... Not only do they lull me into a genre that surges my emotions, creating a desire to run off into a distant memory, but they also bring new life to surf/indie rock. Their influence drives from nature, as well as a mixture of new-wave, post-punk, and 1960's psychedelic composition. Their band has truly swooned me into taking part in a listening frenzy for the next week, and I'm inviting all of you to join me!

Here's the plan;
Each Monday, I'll be announcing an artist or band on my blog that I'll be engulfing myself in for an approximated 6-7 days. I invite everyone to do the same! Then every Sunday, at the end of the listening week, return to .rapt and post your comments on my [ARTIST/BAND OVERVIEW] blog entry (posted every Sunday morning) expressing how that artist/band has impacted you. Do a mini-review; express your likes, dislikes, or how the music made you feel. I'll also articulate my point of view and musings in my blog entry and discuss everyone's opinions!
I'll mostly be covering newer bands as a way to get some new names in indie rock out there! Together, we can discover new bands and fuel fresh inspirations through music. I would love everyone to participate! Doesn’t matter who you are…if you love music, then give it a go.

Meet back here at .rapt on the March 13th, 2011 to discuss Beach Fossils! Until then, have fun everyone! Submerse yourself in some fine tunage.