-Party time, excellent- Friday night @ Farm 255

-Salute their shorts! The four-eyed force behind Quiet Hooves- David (28, from Roswell, GA) doesn’t look to shabby with the sweetest arm candy Athens, GA has to offer: behold, Beth (25, from Athens, GA) the girl who is easily adored.

-Parks and Jeff of Mans Trash.

-Somehow Erin (23, from Atlanta, GA) makes a hot summer night, even hotter with a sexy floral jumper.

-Can’t help but dance yrself clean to Quiet Hooves who made for a noisy fun party on the patio.

Comments (0) Jun 27 2010

Grunge rock band Gift Horse has been making themselves known with the release of their latest album, Mountain of Youth. With ambient vocals and swelling guitars, these three shoegazing locals offer one of the best acts at Athfest tonight at the 40 Watt. We sat down with the guys and had them fill out questionnaires; check out their hilarious answers below.

Comments (0) Jun 26 2010

Ahh, Athens in the summertime. It’s like living inside a wimpy Swede’s sauna… without the relief of jumping into a snowbank. Therefore, its only natural (or masochistic) that we hold one of Athens’ largest annual events in the midst of this slow roast.

We are, of course, referring to AthFest, 5 days of what our humble hometown is famous for: music, arts, film… and kids? That’s right- you’re partying for a good cause! AthFest is a non-profit organization, and proceeds from your $15 wristband (also available at Schoolkids, Wuxtry, Cine, Musicians Warehouse, and Athens Welcome Center; $20 at AthFest) is supporting local schools!
While folks spend a lot of time and money perfecting their starving artist look, many Athens residents don’t need the pomade or artfully torn clothes.  Athens-Clarke County has one of the highest poverty rates in the nation. By attending AthFest, you’re not only getting access to some of the best music, film, and art available; you’re also contributing to local education and, in turn, Athens’ next generation.

With over 150 bands throwing down in the next 3 days, its impossible to attend all of the shows. Here’s a list of the Friday shows where UGAStyle will be grooving; stay posted for our Saturday and Sunday picks!

Friday, We’re In Love:
Cars Can Be Blue (Cine BarCafe, 1 am, 18+)
Nate Mitchell and Becky Brooks can guarantee an interesting live show. Not only are their songs irreverent and hilarious, but their onstage banter gives you a concert experience that verges on stand up comedy. If you want to end your night on a high note (that’s heavily suffused with dirty humor), Cars Can Be Blue is the band to see.

Our New Silence (New Earth Music Hall, 10 pm, 18+)

Kai Riedl

Our New Silence is the genre-bending child of local musicians Kai Riedl (of Macha) and Suny Lyons (of Hope for Agoldensummer), whose Javasounds project took them to Java, Indonesia to record local musicians. Our New Silence builds on those recordings, remixing and reworking the distinctive sounds of the gamelan ensemble into songs that range from sweeping, electronic orchestration to playful, danceable beats.

Suny Lyons

Our New Silence has become a trio with the addition of local percussionist Jeremy Wheatley, whose bangin’ talents are in high demand in Athens. In fact, he’ll be working a double shift at New Earth – Wheatley also plays with LeMaster, who immediately follows Our New Silence. The trio will be joined by chanteuses Maria Taylor (of Azure Ray)  and Kara McKinney (of The Premonitions).

Bananafish (Rye Bar, 10 pm, 21+)
Hailing from the land of Mickey (Orlando, FL), Bananafish sounds more Pacific Northwest than Florida orange groves. They’re often compared to Fleet Foxes, and there’s some truth to that reference. Our favorite track is “Walden Pond”, which evokes the exotic gypsy-folk tones of Beirut. Bananafish is in control of its own sound and is in no way a poor imitation of artists its compared to. In fact, one of the most refreshing things about these guys is that with a name like Bananafish, its clear that they aren’t taking themselves too seriously.
Followed by: Beauvilles, 11 pm; Woodfang, 12 am; Laissez Funk, 1 am

We’ll also be scoping out:

Thayer Sarrano

• ‘Powers/Bambara/Pride Parade/Cinemechanica (40 Watt Club, 10 pm-til, 18+)

• Thayer Sarrano/Major Love Event/Hope for Agoldensummer (Flicker Theatre, 10 pm-til, 21+)

• Easter Island/Creepy/Ramone/Engineering/Immuzikation & Twin Powers (Go Bar, 10 pm-til, 21+)

Check out the AthFest website to download the schedule or pick up this week’s Flagpole for a handy insert. Overwhelmed by the sheer volume of performers? OnlineAthens has provided a rundown on every single act…we’re writing them a thank you note.

Comments (0) Jun 24 2010

(Image by Jessica Horwitz)

Athens’ own Packway Handle Band is a local roast of American Folk mixed with a shot of funk. This medley of songsters brew up twangy bluegrass tunes that are sure to get your toes tapping. If you’ve seen a live show, you know that these five gents bring a certain spunk to the stage that is triumphed by magnetic harmonies & a spirited vehemence that goes unmatched. (Shall we also point out that they are mighty easy on the eyes?) Always dressed to impress, the Packway crew keeps it classy in dashing threads which accompany their banjos, mandolins, & fiddles quite adequately. These dapper dudes recently graced the 40 Watt stage with the beautiful Lera Lynn & members from Venice is Sinking. Before the strumming of strings commenced, UGAstyle slid on the scene to snag a few pics.

- Andrew Heaton, aka “the Fiddlin’ Heatwave”, (Fiddle and Vocals)

- Josh Erwin (Guitar and Vocals)

- Michael Paynter (Mandolin and Vocals)

Vest: standard uniform, we’d conclude.

Be sure to check out Packway Handle’s new CD What Are We Gonna Do Now? And don’t forget to vote for Packway (Americana) in the Flagpole Music Awards! (And if you are impatient and getting an itch to see them soon, they will jammin’ in ATL June 11 at Eddie’s Attic.)

Comments (0) May 17 2010

As if you haven’t been counting down the days, we are on the brink of summer, ladies and gents! To celebrate, and in honor of Music Mondays, here’s a little playlist from us to you. Click HERE to stream it from our Grooveshark account and listen there. Good luck on finals!

1. Sinister Kid by The Black Keys
A preview off the amazing new album, Brothers, coming out May 18^th.

2. Keep Yourself Warm by Frightened Rabbit
With lines like “it takes more than fucking someone you don’t know to keep yourself warm” and “I’m drunk and you’re probably on pills,” what’s not to love?

3. Blood by the Middle East
A bittersweet song about faith, family, and death.

4. Home by LCD Soundsystem
From the album “This Is Happening,” coming out May 17^th.

5. Divisive by We Have Band
Let them spell it out for you.

6. Turpentine by Vandaveer
Raw vocals and sweetness.

7. I Am Not a Robot by Marina and the Diamonds
“The Diamonds” does not refer to Marina’s band, it’s actually the American translation of her Greek last name, Diamandis, and is a little tribute to her fans.

8. Heaven’s On Fire by The Radio Dept.
Contrary to sex on fire.

9. Om Nashi Me by Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros
Mumble jumble goodness.

10. Single Ladies by Pomplamoose
A cover of Beyonce’s original, with a burn thrown in – “don’t make me sing this part of the song, the lyrics are so bad, so we’re going to skip ahead to the single ladies part instead.”

11. Dance Floor by Apples In Stereo
A great song, with a great music video – featuring Elijah Wood. Watch it here.

12. No Fucking Around by Rafter
Rafter does not fuck around, simple as that.

13. Alligator by Tegan & Sara
I don’t know what relationship these twins have with alligators, but I like this song. And the music video. Watch it.

14. Southern Comfort by Arrah And The Ferns
Prettiness. Ooh la a la la oo, la la…

15. Airplanes by Local Natives
Local Natives just played in Atlanta this past weekend, and you bet your pretty little ass the UGAstyle team was in attendance. Missed the show? Catch them at Bonnaroo in June.

16. I Was Playing Drums by Efterklang
Watch the band from Copenhagen do their thing here.

17. Harmonix by Surfer Blood
Surfer Blood is on tour in Europe this month, but no worries, they come back to the States in June to begin their tour with The Pains Of Being Pure At Heart.

18. Young Adult Friction by The Pains Of Being Pure At Heart
Just so you can know who TPOBPAH are.

19. What I Wouldn’t Do by A Fine Frenzy
If you’re an avid House watcher, you’ve heard her lovely female vocals without even knowing it. This girl is adorable, see for yourself.

20.  BTSTU by Jai Paul
Listen to this on loud through big headphones. Have noise canceling ones? Even better.

21. Boat Behind by Kings of Convenience
Not to be confused with Kings of Leon. Anyway, nerds are cool, and so is this video.

22. Howlin’ For You by The Black Keys
To end this playlist off right. Howlin’ For You, like the first song on this playlist, is also off the new album, Brothers. Make sure to buy it when it comes out May 18^th because it’s absolutely fantastic.

…NOW STOP PROCRASTINATING, LISTEN WHILE YOU WORK!

Comments (1) May 03 2010

Band of Horses TONIGHT @ The 40 Watt - Doors @ 8pm

Dad rock? Granola indie? Or a sound which echos something more?  Ben Bridwell’s brigade of pastoral indie rockers sift through their Americana to unleash the hearts of gold lining their sleeves. With grandiose linguistic delivery that remains, somehow, scant of cheesiness, lines like “the world is such a wonderful place” and “watch how you treat every living soul,” will churn up sincere sentiments worth raising your lighter for. Painting painfully pretty melodies and an essence that eludes to sifting over a placid lake while a cold beer slides down your throat, the scene at the 40 Watt shall ease you into a stupor drowned in sound.

Comments (0) Apr 26 2010

This weekend was graced with a little something called Record Store Day! In honor, here is your “stocking stuffer”- the 2010 Sub Pop/Record Store Day Mix, courtesy of the stellar folks at SubPop.

Let the UGAstyle team keep you in the know with the newest releases to rock your music library. In honor of Record Store Day, pop into your nearest shop and turn up the volume. We wouldn’t lead you astray, this is money well spent:

POP
•   The Bird And The Bee – eponymous
•   Usher – Raymond vs. Raymond
•   Beyonce – I Am Sasha Fierce
•   Miike Snow – eponymous
•   The Morning Benders – Big Echo
•   The Ruby Suns – Fight Softly
•   Selena – La Leyenda

Indie/Rock
•   Field Music – Measure
•   MGMT – Congratulations
•   Beach House – Teen Dream
•   Department of Eagles – In Ear Park
•   Two Door Cinema Club – Tourist History
•   Broken Bells – eponymous
•   Portugal.The Man – American Ghetto

Electronic (not like techno/ trippy…in a cool, chill way):
•   The Knife – Tomorrow, In A Year
•   Toro Y Moi – Causers of This
•   Hot Chip – Made In The Dark
•   El Guincho – Alegranza
•   Hot Chip – One Life Stand

Rap/Hip-Hop
•   The Cool Kids – The Bake Sale
•   Ludacris – Battle of the Sexes
•   The Streets – Computers and Blues
•   Snoop Dogg- Malice In Wonderland
•   Erykah Badu – New Amerykah, Part II: Return Of The Ankh
•   Gorillaz – Plastic Beach
•   Blakroc – eponymous

Vinyls
•   Black Moth Super Rainbow – Dandelion Gum
•   Led Zeppelin – Led Zeppelin II
•   Radiohead – Kid A
•   Animal Collective – Merriweather Post Pavilion
•   Stevie Wonder – Talking Book
•   Various Artists – Nigeria 70
•   The Zombies – Absolutely The Best
•   Bon Iver – For Emma, Forever Ago
•   Fleetwood Mac – Rumors
•   Nirvana – Nevermind
•   Band of Horses – Cease to Begin

Local bands! SUPPORT ATHENS MUSIC!
•   Drive-By Truckers – The Big To Do
•   The Whigs – In The Dark
•   Gift Horse – Mountain of Youth

Comments (0) Apr 18 2010

About three weeks ago, the UGAstyle team danced our little hearts out to Sweedish, electropop band, Miike Snow, at the Masquerade in Atlanta. Yes, Miike Snow is a band and not just one guy. Haven’t heard of them? If you’re an avid Jimmy Kimmel, Gossip Girl, or Pretty Much Amazing fan, you’ve heard ‘em. And who hasn’t heard “Toxic” by Britney Spears? Well, the Grammy-award-winning, production duo behind “Toxic” are members of Miike Snow. If you’re still lost (and even if you’re not), get acquainted:

(By the way, the show was originally set to be in Hell, the smallest space within the venue, but unexpected demand for tickets by eager masses persuaded the Masquerade to move things up to a larger and more Heavenly affair.)

The guys came out sporting full faced white masks, setting the tone for the night. There was something special in the air as a mad rad performance commenced.

Andrew Wyatt: lead singer and songwriter

Production duo: Bloodshy & Avant

The set was a perfect blend of original tracks off their self titled debut album, freestyle DJing and a psychedelic light show. This menage a trois made for a live performance that made our toes tingle & hearts pitter-patter. UGAstyle couldn’t have asked for more – killing three birds with one stone, we were thoroughly delighted by the concert, DJ performance and thus the dance party that ensued.

During the opening band, Deloreon, UGAstyle spotted lead singer Andrew Wyatt modestly sitting in the back. Of course, we had to go up to chit chat and snag a photo.

- Andrew (of Miike Snow) kicks back cool at the Masquerade in Atlanta. Though he sports a mask when hitting the stage, his everyday diggs are void of any disguise or mystery; strait forward and simple with a splash of rock and roll.
—————————————————————————–

Make sure to catch these guys live soon because they are destined for greatness. If you’re going to Bonnaroo this year, you’re in luck – they’ll be there.

– Find “Burial” and a Peter, Bjorn & John remix of “Animal” on UGAstyle’s Spring Scene playlist!

– Download free songs by Miike Snow and check out many other remixes at RCRD LBL.

Comments (0) Apr 11 2010

Come check out Very Disco TONIGHT!!!

Get groovy with the sounds of Daft Punk & start your weekend right.

Where: 40 Watt - 10 dolla, holla

When: Friday, April 9 – 10pm

Why: we don’t stop going ’til the sticks stop glowin’

Not enough to entice you? DJ GRAVEROBBERS will be there opening up the night, so come ready to shake.

(Some pixx from the 1st Very Disco show @ the Georgia Theatre, R.I.P.)

Comments (0) Apr 09 2010

Spring has sprung(ish) and with it has come an overwhelming bumper crop of fresh musical releases and tours. It would take weeks to gush over all of the deserving musical endeavors, so here is a tiny sampling of the musical magic that is gracing the first quarter of 2010:

Yeasayer Odd Blood (Feb. 9)

Brooklyn boys Yeasayer give us unbounded joy, madness, and everything in between with their sophomore  album Odd Blood.The new disc delivers hints of MGMT and Beck, acts the band toured with in 2008. However, the raw emotion and uninhibited experimentation on Odd Blood is entirely Yeasayer’s own. Speaking of uninhibited: if you like naked people, check out the music video for “Ambling Alp”.
The majority of the UGAStyle staff is attending Yeasayer’s April 6 show in Atlanta…you should, too!

Gorillaz Plastic Beach (Mar. 9)
The coolest cartoon duo since Beavis and Butt-head drops their third album, whose environmentally-conscious title refers to the plastic islands of the Pacific. Clearly, environmentalism is where it’s at – guest stars on Plastic Beach include Snoop Dogg, Lou Reed, Mos Def, De La Soul, Bobby Womack, and members of The Clash. Plastic Beach carries a heavy element that wasn’t as present on previous albums, but with engrossing beats, international influences, and wise lyrics, it doesn’t stop you from getting your trippy, avant-garde groove on.

Field Music Measure (Feb. 16)
This British group hasn’t had an album come out since 2007, so they’re making it up to us with the double album Measure. Thank god, ’cause over 2 years without fresh produce from Field Music has been even more distressing than the fact that Heidi Montag had a psychic manager. Mercifully, the band has flown under the hipster radar, so you won’t hear “Field Music” when you come across a Who-Knows-More-Obscure-Bands contest between 2 mustachioed folks sporting artfully moth-eaten couture.

However, we’ll pass on dishing out specifics because we don’t want some fop to win the Obscure Bands contest with the sacred sounds of Field Music. And with that, mum’s the word. Field Music is the most brilliant band on this list. Go do the legwork and see what we mean.

PS- If you champions of Obscure Bands really want to throw your opponent for a loop, just drop a name like Justin Bieber or Jason Derulo. They’ll pretend they’ve never heard of them just to preserve their reputation as an über-authentic music snob.

Broken Bells Broken Bells (Mar. 9)

The release that’s on everyone’s turntables right now is the debut of Broken Bells, a collaboration between James Mercer, the lead singer of indie rock gods The Shins, and former Athenian Brian Burton, AKA Danger Mouse. Don’t recognize Danger Mouse? Perhaps a list of acts he’s associated with will help jog that purple-hazed memory of yours…

Danger Mouse is half of Gnarls Barkley with Cee-Lo Green of Goodie Mob. The two actually met at a UGA show in 1998 when Danger Mouse was still an undergrad at UGA. That’s right – our very own campus can be credited with bringing Gnarls Barkley together! Danger Mouse really broke into the music scene in 2004 when he released The Grey Album, a mashup of The Beatles’ White Album and Jay-Z’s The Black Album. He’s had his hands in variety of projects since then, including producing Gorillaz album Demon Days (2005) and Beck’s Modern Guilt (2008).

Needless to say, Mr. Mouse knows how to give you an eargasm. Combine that with Mercer’s thoughtful lyrics, earnest delivery, and high vocal range and Broken Bells demands serious consideration. Always eager to obey, we seriously considered their debut album…and considered…and considered. AKA, we put that shit on repeat!

The first single “The High Road” is a song that seeps into your subconscious in a way that would make Pavlov proud; you fall under its spell before you even realize it. As a loop of an arcade game ditty heralds the beginning of “High Road”, you may even salivate. The arcade loops weave through a panoply of multi-layered instrumentation and melody that showcase Danger Mouse’s talent. Mercer belts out pure, melodic heart and then drops into a thoughtful, almost-defeated refrain; ultimately, it all combines to stir the soul.

Waxing poetic about “The High Road” is easy, but applying such unbridled enthusiasm to the entire album is not. Listen to Broken Bells without pause and at some point in the middle, you’ll find yourself feeling a bit ambivalent. It’s an incredibly solid work; it just isn’t as groundbreaking as some of the hype has made it to be.

Whatever your opinion of the album is, don’t make the mistake of thinking that Broken Bells is Danger Mouse remixing The Shins. It’s an insult to both men, who are artists in their own right. While one track may sound Shins-y, the next may carry DM’s signature. And maybe, just maybe, the tracks will dismiss your preconceived notions about what they should or shouldn’t sound like – they’ll just sound like Broken Bells.

40 WATT, FRIDAY JUNE 11th, $26…tickets on sale at Schoolkids Records!

And for the locavores out there, here are some relatively local shows that are coming up and worth your attention:

-Sleepy Sun, Arctic Monkeys; April 5 at 40 Watt; $23

-Javelin, Yeasayer; April 6 at Masquerade; $15

-Adult Swim Block Party w/ Here We Go Magic and Modern Skirts; April 7 at 40 Watt; FREE

-The Whigs, Band of Skulls; April 8 at 40 Watt; $15

-Gold Bears, Howlies, White Rabbits; April 8 at The Earl; $12

-Vampire Weekend; April 8 at The Tabernacle; $25

-Very Disco; April 9th at 40 Watt; $10

-H.E.R. Hip Hop Showcase featuring Dead Prez and Kidz in the Hall; April 9 at New Earth; $20

-Box Elders, Gay Africa, Black Lips; April 10 at 40 Watt; $11

-Bonobo (live band), Emancipator; April 10 at New Earth; $18 adv/$20 door

-Ween; April 10 at The Tabernacle; $32.50

-Bone Thugs n Harmony; April 14 at Masquerade; $20

Comments (0) Apr 05 2010

-Late night TV on lock down kidz: tune in to The Whigs performing on David Letterman TONIGHT! Let it be a nice teaser as they make their migration down south to Athens, GA April 8 at the 40 Watt. Good luck looking as hot as Josh (21, from Atlanta, GA) and Brittany (20, from Mississauga, ON) who got their official gear at Gig Worn (oh hey hey: they even sell wigs to boot SCHWING!)

Comments (0) Mar 31 2010

In case you have been living under a rock and have yet to hear “I Bet You Look Good On The Dancefloor,” we’ve included it for your listening pleasure as an accompaniment to this article. Aside from their major hit single, the Arctic Monkeys will be playing Athens’s very own 40 Watt on Monday April 5, 2010. The band has three full-length albums out, the most recent called “Humbug” and was released in August of 2009. Thanks to lead singer Alex Turner for making all 24 year olds feel unaccomplished, as he is a musical master whose creativity and lyricism surpasses expectations for anyone under 25. So if you have a taste for English rock or just quality music in general- make a deal with the devil in order to be there.

By: Brittany W (21, from Acworth, GA)

And rumor has it tickets are already sold out, so do whatever it takes to get to this concert. (Dignity not required to attend.)

Comments (0) Mar 29 2010

UGAstyle: You went to the University of Florida, how did you end up in Athens?

Alfredo Lapuz: My whole band moved here: Velveteen Pink. We met some friends from Athens and we all decided to come because the music scene was tight. And it’s not Florida…at all.  Economically it’s pretty comparable to Gainesville, of course. And just to be somewhere new.

UGAstyle: What’s the spirit of the VP album?

AL: Synthy, pop, funk stuff. Very much like any 80s electro, Prince, any Janet Jackson, stuff like that.

UGAstyle: In regards to Very Disco, why’d you choose Daft Punk?

AL: Oh, ’cause… because I’m a total fan. Absolutely knew that no one was doing that, that was a big thing. So, knowing so much about them and their music, it was kinda a no-brainer. If we were going to start any kind of tribute project, it was going to be something that absolutely no one else was doing.

UGAstyle: How long did it take you guys to master the Daft Punk sound?

AL: Like a month, if that. The first performance, January last year, that was the first time we ever ran the set full through. It was at the [Georgia] Theatre. That was the first show and the first time we ran it fully through. Even during practice, we never did the whole thing.

UGAstyle: Oh, wow. So were you nervous?

AL: I mean yeah, a little bit. And you know those wrist bands I wear? They were really, really restricting, so my hands were definitely numbing up, so that was kinda scary.

UGAstyle: So what do you do for Kuroma?

AL: I play left hand keyboard bass and keyboards.

DUSTY: So are you like best friends with Hank Sullivant?

AL: I mean, I know Hank. We’re not “BFFS” (laughs). We G-chat every now and again. He’s in Brooklyn.

UGAstyle: So when you play live [as Immuzikation], it’s all on a whim?

AL: Yeah. Well, usually someone will come and request something and I’ll go okay, this is going to go awesome over this other song. When I did the Daft Punk / MGMT one, that definitely [came from] constant requests of those songs individually. [So] then I [recorded] the track. Now I can play that track live.

UGAstyle: You made a video to go with that…

AL: Yeah, it was awful (laughs). I just took both of their videos, one was in 4×4 one was in widescreen, and it’s just like awful. But it was more to get the point of the music, of what I was doing. And that has gotten over 600,000 hits – which is totally amazing… especially because it’s so awful (laughs). It’s really bad.

UGAstyle: You are constantly playing shows in Athens as Immuzikation. Where’s your favorite place to play?

AL: Uh, shit. I mean it kinda depends. 283, raging past 2am is pretty awesome. But so is Go Bar. It’s between the two, absolutely, easily. Even compared to a big venue like the 40 Watt. I really like the intimacy, people just being there, in it.

UGAstyle: So this is where your story comes in. How did you get started, when did you first start making music?…

AL: Oh God, this is a long one.

UGAstyle: What kind of diapers your mom used?…

AL: (laughs) I don’t even remember. I was born in Detroit. I started singing and playing piano at 5. Sang for the Pope in Michigan when I was 5 – maybe 7.

UGAstyle: Oh my gosh.. get it. That’s legit.

AL: Yeah it was pretty sick (laughs). I stopped singing because I didn’t like it very much.

UGAstyle: You didn’t see the boys choir in your future?

AL: Nah, I wasn’t feeling any of that. But I played the piano, everyone in my family had to play the piano. It was a must, of course – we’re Asian. But growing up through my family’s church, I played in the orchestra, I played in high school and in middle school.

UGAstyle: Were you in the legit band?

AL: Yeah, for sure. But I didn’t march, cause I wasn’t into that (laughs). Our school was modeled after FAMU’s marching band so it was really intense. Like inappropriate intense. It was too much for me. I didn’t take it that seriously so I stuck to symphonic band.

UGAstyle: So what did you listen to growing up?

AL: Definitely a lot of pop music.

UGAstyle: Like Top 40 stuff?

AL: Yeah, I mean…

UGAstyle: Do you own any NOW That’s What I Call Music CDs?

AL: I don’t own any NOW CDs (laughs). In high school I got really into traditional ska, a lot of soul, funk and jazz. I was pretty super-closed minded then. To where I was like, if it’s not really good pop music or any of those, I wasn’t gonna like it. It wasn’t until college that I was real open minded about everything.

UGAstyle: Yeah, you played Bonnaroo last year.

AL: Yeah, with Kuroma. We were in some wack tent, it sucked (laughs). Well, it only sucked because Nine Inch Nails was playing during us and it was so loud. But it was tight, I mean, I’d play it again.

UGAstyle: Are you playing any more festivals in the future?

AL: [Kuroma’s] playing one with MGMT in New Jersey. It’s called Bamboozle [in May]. MGMT’s curating a stage so it’s gonna be The Acrylics and what’s the name of that damn band? They’re from Brooklyn – like every band (laughs). Fuck, I can’t remember. But they’re doing a stage so we’re gonna play. I think that’s confirmed.

Be sure to check out the Collective Efforts CD release party @ New Earth Music Hall on March 20 & to get down & dirty with IMMUZICATION @ Go Bar on March 27!!

Comments (0) Mar 19 2010

UGAstyle is wishing you a superb Spring Break!!! Though it is March – and still a bit cold – we hope the next couple days of fun in the sun warm your hearts and rejuvenate your sanity for the rest of the semester. Please, be advised, the next few items you mustn’t forget on your adventures…

- Skin: it’s always in

- Sunblock: for lack of a better word –  wrinkles

- Swim essentials: swim trunks, flippy floppies, you know the drill

- Smooth tunes from UGAstyle: without music, the beautiful is dead

Comments (0) Mar 07 2010

It’s hard to press stop when this young electronic producer’s agile melodies layered over headnodic, immaculately-produced beats are flowing from your speakers. Emancipator’s new Album “Safe In The Steep Cliffs” blends new instrumentation and organic samples with the signature Emancipator style of clean production, silky melodies and addictive drums. Dense layers of choirs, horns, American folk instruments such as the banjo and mandolin, violin and some distinct Asian influences make for a playful but refined album built out of intricate tracks listeners can enjoy on as many levels as they want. Dance, chill out, immerse your mind and soul in these smooth sounds. (via New Earth Music Hall)

Emancipator

Wednesday, March 3

New Earth Music Hall

doors 9pm // 18+ // tickets $8 advance $10 door

Comments (0) Mar 02 2010

Kai & Suny are Javasounds

-This is some heavy shiz, people. UGAstyle presents to you some fellas that are willing to blow your senses to smithareens with melodies that you can’t find anywhere on iTunes. Be cool, be thrifty, open your senses to the East coast… of the world that is.

xxxx

Aye, aye cap’m. These fellas are our cup of tea.

- Javasounds, one of the most unique commodities to stem from the streets of Athens, is a harmonious blend that expresses the beauty of culture around the world. Their craft is the practice of musicology, defined as “the study of social and cultural aspects of music and dance in local and global contexts.” WOAH… that sounds heady. But really, it is the idea of challenging our everyday music inclinations and pushing our ears to a new level. By means of the art of verse & sound, we equip ourselves with the power to tap into emotion & appreciate the accolade of understanding. These two talented boys aim to exude a message that will truly reach people, so their mission, in a sense,  is education via music. The dynamic experience is crafted by the duo Kai Lechlieter Riedl and Suny Lyons who live each day in a dream of reality.

So, if you love sound and want to challenge the limits of your genius playlist, support a project stemmed from challenging mainstream society and people. Words only have so much of an impact. The “controlled insanity” that encapsulates the sound of Kai & Suny’s project divulges the realm of the unspoken & unleashes the bright glow of acumen.

*So open your mind to a new universe of diversity: Javasounds AND  Our New Silence (remixed traditional Java muzak)*

…& hey, these two pulled a Radiohead, so if your one that still holds true to the business of music (as opposed to the labyrinth of download piratry), fear not as you can donate whatever your little heart desires for some Javasounds tunes.

(special thanks to Espresso Royale Cafe)

Comments (0) Feb 18 2010

Ruh-oh, you forgot it’s V-day. No fret, UGAstyle has got your back lack a sweater, ya hurrd?! Impress your boo with some lovely-dovey date night ideas, exclusive to Athens:

Are you a nature nut? Well, Mother Nature looks like she isn’t PMSing: Pack a picnic and venture to the Botanical Gardens for a backdrop that exudes romance all its own.

Be snazzy and classy: Dinner and a movie – wine n’ dine at The National. Follow up your meal with a quick flick @ Cine. Nibble on a 3 course, prix-fixe menu and then skip next door to the theatre for jazz and champagne. If you celebrate on Sunday, UGAstyle recommends opening your eyes to An Education.

Go the traditional and swanky route: Grab a cocktail at Highwire and then eat a delectable pre-fix dinner at Farm 255. Be prepared and satisfy your sweetie’s tooth by picking up hand-made, high-quality, locally-produced, independently-owned and operated, FRESH fresh chocolate treats from White Tiger Gourmet.

Day time celebration? Visit Canopy Studio and try out their special couple’s trapeze workshop (An intro to partner aerial dance on the trapeze. No experience necessary. Registration required.) 2–3:30 p.m. $40/couple.  Then go warm your belly and heart with some delicious Southern cookin’ at Mama’s Boy.

Homebodies: Release your inner Anthony Bourdain and impress your significant other by whipping up a make-together meal from Earthfare. After dinner, snuggle up for a delight from Vision Video (UGAstyle recommendations: Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, or stay classic with a quirky love story like Annie Hall)

…going solo in 2010? Pop the top with the bestest of friends & get tipsy while listening to a compilation of songs (some romantic…some not so romantic) from UGAstyle!

Comments (1) Feb 13 2010

All good things must come to an end…and it’s sad to say but the time has come to bid adieu to the psychedelic and explosive music experience better known as Dark Meat. The menagerie of misfits is KAPUT!!!! Say you saw them once upon a time and come celebrate one of the most creatively collaborative efforts to ever stem from The Classic City.

Dark Meat with Judi Chicago

New Earth Music Hall

Friday, February 12

$8 advance, $10 at the door

x

Don’t ever call him bored – UGAstyle had the pleasure of getting up close and personal with the man, the myth, the legend: Jeff Tobias. Over the years, this renaissance man of sorts has seen and heard it all…LITERALLY! His current gig entails work at the Daily Co-Op, writing for Flagpole, and hitting the books as a part-time student. Native to the Big Apple, Mr. Tobias jaunted down south to pursue musical endeavors with a band he encountered on the world wide web, We vs. the Shark. Since he moved from New York, he has stacked up quite the laundry list of Ahens occupations. From his glory days as a doorman at the 40 Watt, to serving at The Globe, working the night shift at The Grill, serving up freshness at Farm 255, scooping popcorn at Cine, or scrubbing dishes at Five Star Day... you name the local joint, and chances are high hat Tobias has had a stint. On top of all these odds and ends, Mr. Tobias took on the role as Mr. Elmer (the glue) for the fickle membership of Dark Meat. What’s in store for Mr. Tobias  next? There is no telling, but we expect that there is more than one road to be taken.

Comments (0) Feb 11 2010

- Any time one of the Elephant 6 groups plays Athens, loyal fans flock in droves. Such is the case with Athens’ own of Montreal. Originally set to grace the Watt with glittering sparkles of creativity in a one night spectacular, the group had to add another night of theatrics to the docket. In an effort to avoid threats of flogging by those unlucky hopefuls bound to stand void of a golden ticket, of Montreal will not only be bringing the heat Thursday (Feb 4), but tonight (Wed, Feb 3), as well. There is a good reason both shows are sold out…these eccentrics are far from sell outs. of Montreal puts most live acts to shame. Front man Kevin Barnes has been known to perform naked while riding a horse onto stage.  We are expecting a slew of surprises and lysergic bliss. If you didn’t get to see the glimmer of that golden ticket, attempt to sell your soul – otherwise hear about the greatness through the grapevine. If all else fails – open up your ears to UGAstyle’s PLAYLIST to get yourself in the groove of Montreal.

of Montreal – Wed & Thurs (February 3 & 4)

The 40 Watt Club (285 West Washington Street)

Doors @ 8 (18+)

Comments (0) Feb 03 2010

UGAstyle recently joined forces with BLVD Magazine & had the honor to hang out with the Modern Skirts. While in their midst, the Skirts teased us with a few new tunes off their upcoming “untitled” album, sat down for a hilarious, but enlightening interview, & got their inner Fabio out for a style rich photoshoot displaying some of their freshest threads (oddly enough, none of the members wore skirts.)

<<<For your listening pleasure, UGAstyle had each of the guys compile a few songs they’ve had ringing in their ears as of late>>>

Some are old, some are new & some are just down right weird: Check out the Modern Skirts PLAYLIST for yourselves.

Give yourself a well-deserved night of greatness, and catch the Modern Skirts play with Reptar & Thayer Sarrano this Saturday night, January 30, 2010 @ the fabulous 40 Watt Club (285 West Washington St).

18+ & doors open @ 9:30.

Tickets can be purchased downtown @ Schoolkids Records (264 East Clayton St) or online @ www.athensmusic.net.  Be sure to throw some love their way & Ch-Check. It. Out!

Behind the Scenes with the Modern Skirts

Comments (0) Jan 27 2010