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Home » KRVM » Page 3

The year in music

December 13, 2018 by Cynthia Orlando

All-in-all it was a provocative year for music.

There was delicious new genre-twisting music from twenty one pilots…impressive pop splendor from Shawn Mendes, plus boldly beautiful alt-rock from England’s The 1975. Ray Lamontagne gifted fans with exceptional folk-rock tapestries aplenty, and Imagine Dragons served up fun, valiant soaring anthems – still their forte’.

With all that and more, which albums rose to the top via musical substance, artistic creativity and staying power?

Here’s a few ideas for your holiday gift-list.

Courtney Barnett – “Tell Me How You Really Feel”

Australia’s favorite rock n’ roller and Grammy nominee Courtney Barnett won us over with her irresistibly engaging “Tell Me How You Really Feel” release. Barnett is well-loved for her guitar prowess, dry sense of humor and recent musical collaborations with former War on Drugs member Kurt Vile.  Don’t miss popular tracks “Crippling Self Doubt and a General Lack of Self Confidence,” “Walkin’ on Eggshells” and its great electric guitar-fest, and cocky, amusing “Help Yourself.”

Alternatively playful and introspective, exhilarating and humorous, “Tell Me How You Really Feel” confirmed her standing as a gifted contemporary singer-songwriter.

Phosphorescent – “C’est La Vie”

Singer-songwriter Matthew Houck’s seventh studio album served us a bounty of moody atmospheric alt-rock tracks that satisfied. Recorded in Nashville, tracks range from the spritely “New Birth in New England”  to the sonically compelling rocker “Around the Horn” and more reflective “My Beautiful Boy.”

There’s something deep at work here that’s hard to miss. Listen also for the Americana, almost hymn-like “These Rocks.”

Will Phosphorescent ever play Eugene? Let’s hope so!

Mutual Benefit – “Thunder Follows the Light”

Mutual Benefit released their stunning “Thunder Follows the Light” this year. Like a concept album, tracks flow smoothly one-into-the-next. Watch for somber, folksy “Storm Cellar Heart” and the shimmering “Written in Lightning.”

In addition to Lee’s phenomenal musical instincts, “Thunder” underscored the talents of Lee’s accompanying musicians on violin, guitar, saxophone, percussion, vocals and drums. Perfect for the world-weary, these impressionistic folk-rock dreamscapes are balm for the soul.

 

Erika Wennerstrom – “Sweet Unknown”

Singer-songwriter / guitarist Erika Wennerstrom’s “Sweet Unknown” was the freshest new take on rock n’ roll this year. Her original best-new-artist sound is an uplifting blend of Americana and psychedelia.

From the opening reverb-heavy “Twisted Highway” to the rambling, contemplative “Time” and intricate guitar passes found on “Be Good to Yourself,” the entire album delivered feel-good vibes in abundance.

In an NPR write-up early this year, Wennerstrom was quoted as saying “each song is a mantra about being kinder to yourself.” The nearly ten-minute “Good to Be Alone” is an artful treasure perfect for wintertime introspection. An artist to watch.

Paul McCartney – “Egypt Station”

The year’s award for Best Music Comeback goes to Paul McCartney and his retro-yet-fresh 16-track “Egypt Station.” From anthemic songs with time-honored messages to rambunctious pop tracks and reflective ballads, the album delighted both fans and music critics. Clocking in at almost a full hour of music, the album gleaned an extra edge from producer Greg Kurstin (Beck, Adele).

It’s quintessential McCartney…solid, classic arrangements with loads of heart.

Wye Oak – “The Louder I Call, the Faster it Runs”

Fresh, creative Indie alt-rock found its zenith with Wye Oak’s exceptional “The Louder I Call, The Faster it Runs.” Jenn Wasner and Andy Stack have been making music for ten years, but the new album garnered the heretofore Baltimore-based Indie rockers exceptional praise.

“The Louder I Call” triumphs via Stack’s intriguing keyboards and electronics and Wasner’s alluring, smokey-smooth vocals. Don’t miss melancholic “Lifer” or the stellar “It Was Not Natural.”

First Aid Kit – “Ruins”

Gifted folk-pop duo First Aid Kit triumphed with their fourth studio release “Ruins.” It’s a solid “must have” collection of fresh, honest tracks sure to entice enthusiasts of the country-folk music genre. The talented sisters – from Sweden – chose Tucker Martine (Decemberists, My Morning Jacket) to produce the album in Portland; it features REM’s Peter Buck on guitar. Songs range from love ballads (“Fireworks”) to soft-rock soulfulness (“It’s a Shame”) and simple acoustic reflection (“To Live A Life.)”

Don’t miss plaintive “Rebel Heart,” for which the band named this year’s tour. Written on a stormy night in Joshua Tree, California, it’s a compelling track with a stunning arrangement.

Death Cab for Cutie – “Thank You for Today”

Alt-Indie rockers Death Cab for Cutie gave us “Thank You for Today,” a winning mix of lead singer Ben Gibbard’s vocals and lush, tastefully layered guitars. Their ninth studio album reinforced their standing as consistently strong indie pop-rock performers.

High spots included hit single “Gold Rush,” a rocking lament about development and the loss of special places in one’s hometown, and sparkling, exuberant “Autumn Love.” Another triumph was touching and nostalgic “I Dreamt We Spoke Again.”  

 Arc Iris – “Icon of Ego”

It’s impossible to say enough good things about “Icon of Ego,” this year’s release from alt-pop-prog dynamos Arc Iris.

On their newest album, the talented, sometimes theatrical band move effortlessly from pop to alt-rock to jazz, often within the same track. It all happens so smoothly, you wonder why no one else thought of it.

At the helm is Jocie Adams on guitar and keyboards and supplying flawless lead vocals. A graduate of Brown University where she studied composition, she recently told PRP “Icon of Ego” was inspired by the 2016 presidential campaign. A fascinating revelation, indeed.

While KRVM has showcased some of Arc Iris’s music on “Women in Music,” “Icon” is a musically creative, beautiful and powerful work that merits a much larger audience.

Amos Lee – “My New Moon”

For lovers of folk / rock – and especially soul – none could surpass singer-songwriter Amos Lee’s latest “My New Moon.” A troubadour for our times, Lee has a way of consistently weaving music genres together in a way that delights, comforts and inspires.

In preparation for “My New Moon,” Lee worked with non-profit organizations Musicians on Call and Melodic Caring Project to play music bedside to hospital patients battling serious illnesses. On the new album he wrote catchy, sunshiny “Little Light” for Maya, a 9 year-old cancer patient.

“No More Darkness, No More Light” imparts an uplifting Paul Simon vibe. And on festive “Louisville,” a full-band sound is enhanced by Lee’s stellar vocals, first-rate drumming and a rousing singalong chorus fans will love.

That’s a wrap

That’s a wrap on this year’s music!

Remember non-profit KRVM supports many new budding radio announcers…please remember us in your annual gift-giving.

Happy Holidays!

Filed Under: Music Scene, New Music Tagged With: Amos Lee, Arc Iris, Courtney Barnett, Death Cab for Cutie, Erika Wennerstrom, First Aid Kit, KRVM, MUSIC 2018, Mutual Benefit, Paul McCartney, Phosphorescent, Wye Oak

Amos Lee’s “My New Moon” shines bright

November 28, 2018 by Cynthia Orlando

Working on your holiday gift list?

For the music fans in your life, consider Amos Lee’s newest “My New Moon” release.

Gifted in the art of songwriting and storytelling, Lee pulls from many genres in ways that always satisfy. His newest is a refreshing collection of diverse folk-rock-soul tracks sure to satisfy even the music snobs on your list.

From the same guy who penned the popular “Windows Are Rolled Down,” for example, we’re given another taste of road life via his smashing, celebratory “Louisville.”  Here, a festive full-band sound includes a merry singalong chorus and first-rate drumming.

And on his ace, folk-rock “Crooked,” Lee’s smooth, warm vocals are alternately backed by strong harmonies, violin, orchestral touches, keyboards and acoustic guitar. Have a listen:

Crooked

About Amos Lee

Born in Philadelphia, Lee attended the University of South Carolina before releasing his self-titled debut album “Amos Lee.” With seven albums to his credit, Lee’s musical influences include Luther Vandross, Joni Mitchell, Bill Withers, Otis Redding, and John Prine.

The bluesy approach found in some of his work has been compared to 70s soul R&B star Bill Withers. Lee performed at Farm Aid 2013 and plays numerous music festivals both in the U.S. and abroad. He deservedly received an outpour of critical acclaim for his 2011 “Mission Bell” release, which debuted at number one on Billboard. His hit singles have included “Shout Out Loud,” “Vaporize” and “Sweet Pea,” and if you were lucky enough to hear him the last time he performed in Eugene, you already know his live shows are spotless.

In preparation for “My New Moon,” Lee worked with non-profit organizations Musicians on Call and Melodic Caring Project to play music bedside to hospital patients battling serious illnesses. One of those patients was 9-year-old “Mighty Maya” from Seattle, who was undergoing kidney cancer treatment.

 

On the new album, Lee wrote the catchy, sunshiny “Little Light” for her. Here’s a stripped-down version:

Little Light

Then there’s the raw, bluesy vibe of atmospheric “I Get Weak”…quintessential Lee.  At just under six minutes, it’s a slow burner you’re sure to love.

Here’s hoping Amos Lee and other great artists we play here at KRVM are on your holiday gift list.

Happy Holidays!

 

Filed Under: Music Scene, New Music Tagged With: Blues, Folk, KRVM, Rock

Young the Giant headline the Cuthbert

August 21, 2017 by Cynthia Orlando

American rockers Young the Giant headlined a night of indie pop at Eugene’s Cuthbert Amphitheater on August 20.  Check out the photos here

The band was joined by Cold War Kids and Joywave as part of their “Home of the Strange Tour.” The current tour celebrates Young the Giant’s third studio album, “Home of the Strange,” which reached #1 on iTunes Top Alternative Albums chart.

Last year the band performed at The Greek Theater and Austin City Limits (recap of last year’s tour here). This year, the band has already performed a number of music festivals including Al’s Hangout Music Fest and Okeechobee.

Lead singer Sameer Gadhia and band hail from Irvine, California. Gadhia comes from a family of musicians – particularly Indian Classical. He set aside his studies in medicine in 2009 to pursue music. Young the Giant’s hit singles include “My Body” and “Cough Syrup.”

Rolling Stone calls their music “roof-raising anthems” that “tackle ideas…inherent in the immigrant and first-generation American experience.”

Here’s “Silvertongue” from the new album:

Silvertongue

Cold War Kids

Indie rock band Cold War Kids were also on the bill. From Long Beach, California, they toured with Death Cab for Cutie in 2009 and have released 7 albums including their most recent “L.A. Divine” release. Their musical influences include Nick Cave, Fiona Apple, Led Zeppelin and Radiohead.

 

Last year the band released “Locker Room Talk” as part of the 30 days 50 songs project protesting the Donald Trump’s presidential candidacy.

Cold War Kids hit singles include “Hang Me Up to Dry,” “Louder Than Ever” and “Miracle Mile.”

Here’s hit single “Love is Mystical” from the new album:

Love is Mystical

 

This triple-header of a night full of fun included opening band Joywave. From Rochester New York, Joywave is an accomplished and entertaining Indie band who have performed in Eugene before – both at The Cuthbert and at Eugene’s McDonald Theater. As their name implies, they’re a joy to experience live as they showcase their electronic alt-rock tracks.

Joywave

You’ll especially enjoy lead singer Daniel Armbuster – a great vocalist and showman who is an ace at engaging the crowd.

The band made their television debut in 2015 on Late Night with Seth Meyers.

Enjoy “Now,” from their “How Do You Feel Now?” release.

Now

Their new album “Content” is set to release July 28.

You can find music by Joywave, Cold War Kids and Young the Giant on their websites, and on iTunes.

 

Filed Under: Hear them Live!, Music Scene Tagged With: 2017, alt rock, Coldwar Kids, Concert, Cuthbert Ampitheater, Eugene Oregon, Joywave, KRVM, Young the Giant

The Mavericks – Concert Photos

September 9, 2016 by KRVM

The Mavericks – Photos by Bradley Cook Photography

“The Mavericks, September 8, 2016, McDonald Theater, Eugene, Oregon.”

Filed Under: Photo Gallery Tagged With: Concert, KRVM

Ty Curtis brings blues bliss to fans in Oregon

August 26, 2016 by Cynthia Orlando

TC2Long-time KRVM listeners know how much the station loves the blues. For blues aficionados, there was excitement in the air as guitar phenomenon Ty Curtis performed in Albany at the Northwest Art & Air Festival.

Here’s the lowdown from an interview prior to the Festival:

KRVM: “We hear fans can catch you live Sunday at Albany’s Balloon Festival (August 26-28). Is this an event you’ve played before?”

T.C.: “No…have never played this before, but looking forward to it!”

KRVM: How long will you be performing that day?

T.C. “We have a 90-minute set.”

KRVM: “How has the Austin scene been for you this year?”

T.C. “Pretty good!! We are playing much more there…looking forward to getting back home with the new album in-hand.”

KRVM: “Any other Portland or Eugene appearances coming up?”

T.C.: “I have Billy Blues (in Vancouver) coming up September 2nd before I leave back home. We will be back in the middle of October for a short run!!”

Key to My Heart

You can find Ty Curtis’s music on his website or on iTunes. Find additional tour dates here.

Enjoy the show Sunday!

Filed Under: Music Scene Tagged With: Blues, KRVM, Northwest Art and Air Festival, Tour, Ty Curtis

New Pete Yorn Release Shines

August 5, 2016 by Cynthia Orlando

Almost six years since his last album, California-based alternative rock artist Pete Yorn returns with his premier Arranging Time release.

Boasting compelling melodic arrangements filled with catchy hooks and ear-pleasing style, the new album is likely to land on more than a few “Best-of-Year” lists.

Summer Was a Day – the new album’s opening track – is resplendent with atmospheric vibes, tasteful acoustic guitar touches and hypnotic rhythms. Its follow-up is first-rate hit single Lost Weekend, an indicator of the strength of the album.

Lost Weekend

Tracks like “She Was Weird” are pop-flavored and multi-layered, exuberant and infectious.

She Was Weird

You’re also sure to love Yorn’s vocals as he evocatively sings “Seen you at the bus stop waiting” on the softly upbeat “Halifax.”

Halifax

About Pete Yorn

Guitarist, drummer and songwriter Yorn was born in New Jersey, moving to Los Angeles after graduating from Syracuse University in 1999. His performances at L.A.’s Cafe Largo earned him a following and may have scored him his signing with Columbia Records during that time. Soon after, he was hired to score all the music for the film “Me, Myself and Irene.”

R.E.M. guitarist Peter Buck has played on several Pete Yorn recordings; Yorn has played live with R.E.M., Crowded House, Coldplay and Weezer, among others.

Yorn’s first studio album musicforthemorningafter, went gold; the new album is his seventh.

Yorn is a multi-talented musician, playing acoustic, bass and electric guitar on Summer Was a Day as well as electric piano and synthesizer on other tracks.

Pete-Yorn-KRVMVinyl, anyone?

On Capitol Records, the new album has a sound not to be missed.

That must be owing to what took place in the studio; tracks were engineered at various L.A. locations while most were mixed at The Living Room – which The Shins have also used – by Kennie Takahashi, who has also worked with The Arcs, The Shins, Red Hot Chili Peppers and The Black Keys.

Currently on KRVM’s playlist is Yorn’s winning and breezy I’m Not the One.

You’ll dance to Yorn’s drums on Screaming at The Setting Sun, but other more subdued tracks – like Roses and Shopping Mall – are equally commanding.

On tour

Yorn is touring in September to promote the new album; he doesn’t yet have a show scheduled for the Pacific Northwest, but you can catch him in Las Vegas and Austin or check for additional show dates here.

You can find music by Pete Yorn on his website and on iTunes.

Filed Under: Music Scene Tagged With: 2016, Arranging Time, KRVM, Music, Musician, Pete Yorn, R.E.M., Review

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