Some facts:
- Swimmhaus Johannesburg is a song by Fixers. (Buy the original here.)
- Fixers are an Oxford-based psychedelic rock band.
- I initially wrote off Fixers based on singer Jack Goldstein's voice.
- It is one those nasal and high-pitched BIlly Corgan/whichever Gallagher sang-esque voices.
- Many people dig that kind of voice. I find it rather grating.
- I do, however, really dig Star Slinger.
- Star Slinger is essentially the MasterChef of remixes.
- Star Slinger remixed Swimmhaus Johannesburg.
- The remix has lots of swirling synths, plucky pseudo-strings, and deeeeep, warm bass.
- It is my new favorite thing.
Brooklyn's Kevin Devine has never quite gotten the credit he deserves. He's been churning out superb solo records since 2002, not to mention his work as frontman of the now-defunct Miracle of '86. The singer-songwriter's foray into a solo career has covered a lot of ground with a lot to sing about - including the death of his father and the ultimate demise of his band. Now, almost a decade later and six full-length records under his belt, Devine still isn't the household name he should be.
Next week's release finds Devine at the top of his game, resulting in some of his best songs to date. Between the Concrete & the Clouds, which happens to be the title track, is in contention for my favorite song of the summer. Devine has once again melded his brooding style of lyrics and verses with poppy, crescendo-laden choruses and bridges. The result is something that feels like you're being ripped apart while listening. As he's often likened to Elliott Smith, although a more upbeat version - I think it's an unfair comparison. Devine himself may cite the late indie-folk legend as a chief influence to his music, but tracks like this are proof the New Yorker is in a world of his own. Listen to Between the Concrete & Clouds and make sure to pre-order the album over at Favorite Gentlemen Recordings.
I'm not usually one to post something after hearing it only once. Actually, I can't think of a single time I've done it. But I've got to make an exception with the latest output from Mark McGuire, the Cleveland based guitarist better known as one-third of the ambient rock trio Emeralds. He's preparing a new solo LP to be released September 27th, and the first excerpt from it, the title track Get Lost is as perfect as I could have hoped. A trepidatious start gives way to a swarm of fuzzy loops that swirl around each other until pointed strumming grabs the ambience by its shoulders and pulls it to standing attention, building to a swelling, swirling, resonating head before settling down to a twinkling end. If this is what getting lost feels like, I don't want to be found.
Kimbra is everywhere right now, isn't she? Between last year's flawless guest spot on Miami Horror's I Look To You and her recent, perfectly-emotive-without-being-over-the-top collaboration with Gotye on Somebody That I Used to Know, and now the impending release of her debut album, Vows, the girl seems intent on taking the pop music world by storm. Given her voice, look, and unique musical style--an infectious blend of soul, R&B, jazz, and shimmy shiny pop--I'd guess it's only a matter of time before she does just that. Not to make easy comparisons, but from the strong vocals to that black bob, big eyes, and taste for quirky colorful outfits, Kimbra could easily be seen as the Australian answer to Katy Perry. BUT BETTER. For example? Her first single, Cameo Lover comes complete with a sing-along chorus, a big-band breakdown, and an over the top music video, all without feeling the least bit manufactured. It sounds great, it looks great, and it makes you feel great too. Pure gold.
To say that Kimbra is my new girl crush would definitely be an understatement. Let's hope the rest of the world feels the same way once they hear her album; it's out now exclusively in Australia and New Zealand. If you live in one of those places, buy it here you lucky dog. If not, follow LL on Facebook or Twitter and we'll keep you updated as to an official international release date.
Bonus:If you're looking for an equally enthralling version of the song with a bit of boogie in, look no further than this remix by fellow Aussie GLOVES. Cameo Lover (GLOVES Remix) - Kimbra
There's not much left to say about the Magician that I haven't already, but here's some news. His debut official single, I Don't Know What to Do is to be released October 3rd on Kitsuné. The song features vocals by Danish singer Jeppe, of Classixx' I'll Get You fame. (Do you like bass, do you do you like bass?) As a debut single it's a bit safe, but really stupid catchy, so I'm considering this another Magical victory. Be sure to grab the entire EP when it comes out a month from now; as it features a club remix, one by Plastic Plates, and a criminally great Fabian rendition.
Remember this song? I've been lucky enough to catch The Twelves live twice in the past month, and this track always seems to find its way into their sets. It's nothing new, and yet sounds every bit as fresh and fun as it did back in 2008. And while the Black Kids original was sure to get you smiling, the remix is going to get your body moving--I've yet to see a single person able to resist its dancefloor call-to-arms.
Are you ready for September 5th? For your mind to be blown in a flurry of synthy, poppy, dancy, groovy, crazy amazingness? Yes? Great; because in five days, Binary Records'Fabian drops his debut album, Say Goodbye. The Guardian hails it as the album most likely to "Put the "oh" in Studio 54", and while I'm way too young to have ever been to the place, on principle I have to agree. Serving as a testament to that is the album's first single, Last Flight. You know that certain type of disco-influenced feel-good pop music I'm absolutely crazy about? Well this is it exemplified; tenfold. I just started school back up a week ago, and every morning on my commute, when I'm tired and hating the world, I put this song on blast. During the duration I'm guaranteed a total 180 mood swing, complete with handclaps and a serious I CAN DO THIS attitude. That is at least, until it ends.
Stream Last Flight below, and buy the single (with a formidable lineup of remixes to boot) HERE.
Also be sure to check out the remix by Justin Faust; so shimmery it can only be called a gem. Justin is currently on a US tour with Fabian as support, check out either of their Facebook pages for date-- you don't want to miss this duo.
And for good measure (and because it's crazy good), here's a free download of the club-ready RESET! remix.
