The Popsicle

Darnielle and Princess Peach

2008-09-08T10:13:00.000-07:00

This is truly a gamer's wet dream come true in the form of an amazing Mountain Goats song. John teams up with Kaki King to pay homage to one of the greatest video game love stories of all time. It's called "Thank You Mario But Our Princess Is In Another Castle" and you can find it here! Please check this one out!!!!

Leaky Reviews

2008-07-23T18:44:00.000-07:00

Okkervil River- The Stand-Ins

So, if you put the cover art of last release from Okkervil River above the cover of the newest album, it completes a macabre, melancholy picture that serves as an excellent metaphor for the relationship between the two LPs. The newest effort from Will and company is not so much a new album, but a continuation, or completion to the last. It serves as a beautiful and catharthic climax to tack on to the tail of The Stage Names (2007). But, you don't need to make the comparison to find this record brilliant. From the first listen, Sheff's strained tenor, which serves as the focal point above some awesome guitar/ piano harmony, will pull you in and either make you weep or glow. I find myself biased whenever I attempt to review an Okkervil River album because personally, I feel moved when I hear this band, even coming out of some shitty, stock, laptop speakers. If you don't love this album, then you have no soul.

Conor Oberst- Conor Oberst

Since these LPs leaked at the same time I figured I'd give them a few listens and review them together. I didn't know that I would find myself writing some sort of "Hot and Not" gimmick, but that's the position I'm in right now. I'll start with the only positive thing I could possibly say about this... abomination. Say what you want about how bad this guy's last few records have been (Cassadaga (2007)) but it is very obvious that Oberst is maturing. Now, I don't necessarily feel he is growing in the right direction, but if you've noticed, he has found the type of music he wants to make and he is making some solid albums in that vein. He has no variation anymore, his voice, though still shaky, just doesn't have that "sitting-on-the-edge-of-your-seat" urgency about it. And I feel he has given up lyrically. This record lies flat for a majority of a listen. I used to be able to listen to him and feel something, I mean, I still feel something, but it's more of an urge to vomit rather than drink booze and cry about girls. I guess it's not really that bad, but I was really anticipating this one, as I was with Cassadaga. I would hesitate before you pre-order this one on i Tunes.

Best of '08 so far, according to Big A

2008-07-08T08:23:00.000-07:00

So, I've been out of commission after a major surgery to my right arm, which has given me a chance to listen to a lot of the releases of 2008 that I haven't been able to get around to. I decided that it would be good to do a little list of the best that this year has had to offer, since we're at the halfway mark and all. Just a quick side note, I've been listening to some different bands lately so this list might not be the hippest, but well, fuck being hip.

10. Andrew Jackson Jihad- Only God Can Judge Me

Like I said, I've been listening to some different things lately, and this qualifies as one of them. Can't really remember how I first heard this folk punk two-some, but I was really pulled in from the first banjo twang. This EP demonstrates that the band can do more than play fast, and lyrically, they are as good as ever.

9. Silver Jews- Lookout Mountain/ Lookout Sea

This one was not as great as I expected, but, come one, anything by my main man David Berman can't be too disappointing. I might need to digest this more before I move it either up or completely off the list, but until then, it sits at 9.

8. Why?- Alopecia

I have never been to into this threesome until the most recent release. Alopecia marginally surprised me, and I was actually pretty impressed and found myself actually listening to the whole album through. I'm not sure if it's due to the fact that there wasn't much being released around the time of this one, but either way, it's pretty damn good.

7. m83- Saturdays= Youth

I've always been a staunch critic of dance/ club music and how some of these "artists" can swagger around the indie scene with such pride. I may be turning as I have found the most recent release from Anthony Gonzalez absouletely brilliant! If I was a leather pants-clad hipster-doofus, I would've put this higher on the list, but I still think most electronic music sucks.

6. Destroyer- Trouble in Dreams

This is another album I need to log a few more listens into, but even after the first time I heard this release I was impressed. This might move up the list by the end of the year.

5. Fleet Foxes- Fleet Foxes

This was an awesome album that I was really looking forward to hearing after their EP came out. I heard the leak pretty early and sadly, I had really over-listened it by the time of the actual release, but I think this was everything I was expecting from this up-and-coming indie group.

4. Bonnie 'Prince' Billy- Lie Down in the Light

When I first heard this album, I thought it would be a mood- sensitive album, like there rest of his releases; boy, was I wrong. I could listen to this album back to back through any activity, mood, weather, or apocalyptic disaster. This is one that I can guarantee will be on the end of the year list!

3. Girl Talk- Feed the Animals

Cries of "Overrated!" could be heard from bloggers coast to coast as the release date approached for Greg Gillis' project's 2008 release. After being thrust into the limelight with his magnum opus, Night Ripper, many expected him to fade away like so many blog-darlings do. But Greg would not relent, he would not give up, he would fight his way to the top! And with this awesome album he does just that, expect this to be an '08 party starter!

2. Santogold- Santogold

Santi White has done what many artists expect to do in a decade in less than a year. After the release of her self-titled album, which absolutely blew me, and many I know, away, she has gone on to record with Pharrell and is even about to tour with Coldplay (you know how I know she's gay... oh, forget it.) This is a must have for anyone, with any musical taste.

1. The Gaslight Anthem- The '59 Sound

This will probably be disputed by most other bloggers, and really anyone who claims to have a refined indie taste. Well, don't let these charlatans swindle you out of hearing one of the best rock n' roll albums of all time. So what if it sounds like Springsteen, these guys make him look a tutu-wearing creep. I picked this album as number one because it really stuck on me, I find myself telling everyone I know to check it out, and listening to it every chance I get. To get the full effect, chug a beer, and another, and another, then enjoy.

Paste Interview with Doug Martsch

2008-07-01T09:21:00.000-07:00

Doug Martsch of Built to Spill talks about the current indie music scene. link
"And I feel, myself, that there’s not a whole lot I can learn from some 25-year-old from America."

I Was Running

2008-06-27T14:10:00.000-07:00

mp3: A-Trak - "Mastered" ft. Lupe Fiasco

He should make the cover of Thrasher. This song is from the Running Man mix for Nike.

Popcast: Girl Talk - Feed The Animals Listening Party

2008-06-19T16:46:00.000-07:00

Check out the Popsicle listening party. This week's subject is Girl Talk's new album, Feed The Animals.

mp3: Popcast # 1

W.A.L.E.D.A.N.C.E Video

2008-05-26T08:31:00.000-07:00

He stands on R2D2 in it but it's still not even close to the best music video ever made:

Bitstrips

2008-05-17T10:51:00.000-07:00

I found my new favorite website. Check out Bitstrips. The website allows you to create your own comic strips and characters. Also you can rate other people's strips and publish them anywhere. Check out my first attempt.

New Raekwon and Ghostface

2008-05-16T18:57:00.000-07:00

mp3: Raekwon ft. Ghostface Killah - "Jihad" from the upcoming Only Built for Cuban Linx II

Arto Saari Gets Abducted

2008-05-09T18:34:00.000-07:00

Arto doesn't have to look forward to any anal probes or seed-stealing after being picked up by Alien Workshop. He joins an elite crew and leaves behind a fledgling Flip gang after many years he spent with them. Look forward to some new, excellent Arto art from the designers at A. W. who have been pioneers in the art of skateboard graphics. In other news, Jerry Hsu has joined the prolific team that C.C.S. has. All is well in the world of skateboarding!

Reviewin'

2008-05-04T14:06:00.000-07:00

Lots of good music came out this Tuesday.

The Roots - Rising Down
3.5 Pops

The Roots dropped their 8th studio album on Tuesday. Continuing with the darker themes and mood of Game Theory, the synth heavy album features guest spots from favorites like peedi peedi and Popsicle golden boy Wale. Luckily they dropped the Fall Out Boy ridden "Birthday Girl". I feel that the album is a good step for the boys from Philly. Dark and socially conscious, without it feeling forced.

Here is "Rising Up" featuring Wale and Chrisette Michele.

Santogold - Santogold
4 Pops
I had avoided the hype on this album and only heard 2 songs before it's release, "LES Artistes" and "You'll find a way". The prior definitely jumped out at me and I knew this album would be special. As soon as I got through that song, the first on the album, I found out the version of "You'll find a way" that I had was a remix, and the album version is a ska influenced rendition that couldn't be further away from what I had heard. I was pleasantly surprised and my expectations for the album shifted. Santi's debut jumps through influences, touching on dub, new wave, hip hop and pop sounds without ever feeling jarring. Her vocals range from yelps to smooth pop singing. A talented singer with a diverse backdrop to shine on. Great album.

Here is the first single, LES Artistes

Blue Sky Black Death - Late Night Cinema
4 Pops
Production duo Kingston and Young God are back with an album showcasing their instrumental prowess. 2006's A Heap of Broken Images was what hooked me, with the instrumental disc outshining the main disc with appearances from rappers. This album stands alone and continues with a similar sound and feel. A bit less dark, but the production is top-notch. Rich, atmospheric, often haunting instrumental hip hop. The sound is different from most well-known producers, relying less on obvious sampling and creating smooth, flowing music where the mood often shifts dramatically throughout the song. Unlike most instrumental hip hop releases which are either beats wishing for an MC or the instrumental accompaniment to an album, BSBD's production is moving and rich enough that there isn't even room for vocals. I've only had time to listen to this album a couple of times, but I suspect that like Heap of Broken Images, the appeal will last for years as I discover more and more nuances of their rich soundscapes.

3 songs from the album on their myspace.

Starin' Like A Goat

2008-04-24T17:19:00.000-07:00

I had higher hopes for Spanky and The Boss. 2 popsicle sticks down.

The song in the background to this little clip has potential though.

Jay Reatard Makes Boy Get New Shirt, Face

2008-04-21T17:42:00.000-07:00

That's all I will be thinking about when I listen to "My Shadow" from now on.

Different angle below. Up close shirt mutilation.

Musings

2008-04-21T17:24:00.000-07:00

This is the first time I've watched an entire feature on Pitchfork TV. First of all I'm glad to see that the little kid from A Christmas Story is still relatively famous. I never knew he was British and named Jamie Lidell. After watching this squirmingly unfunny interview all the way through can you really justify trusting this person's music? I'm glad to see that Abebe kind of plays along with the rambling, bearded giggling of Lidell and feigns amusement. If someone was trying that hard to entertain you, wouldn't you laugh along as well? Soon though, it's going to be hard justifying Pitchfork as a reliable critic if the HQ is going bananas for this dork.

Here's the interview:

Tokyo Police Club - Elephant Shell

2008-04-05T13:48:00.000-07:00

I believe this guy is faking what his voice sounds like but don't hold that against him. Listen to the first song when he says, "an address that you know...she heard it on cassette. The first song is average. I saw these shitheads in concert and they didn't even play the song "we've got our tracks covered/thanks to your older brother". "In A Cave" has a catchy little thing it does "all my hair grows in/ wrinkles leave my skin" you'll hear it. This is up there with their better songs. The next one sucks. "Juno" is about that the movie i think, trying to grab some of that money.(kind of dates the song, guys) I think "Tessellate" is going to be the new single, it blows dick too. "The Harrowing..." something sounds different, maybe try out that one if you want to hear something sound different by them. The rest all sounds the same. This sounds like something Pitchfork would like though.(Edit - Nope)

Be Your Own Pet - Get Awkward

2008-04-05T13:37:00.001-07:00

This is the sophomore(?) album from Nashville highschoolers. They talk about pizza and slumber parties. The first song, "Black Hole" contains the lyrics "eating pizza is really great/so is destroying everything you hate." If you like eating pizza this song is for you. The second song blows. They don't mention pizza once. "Becky" is a pretty good song. It talks about signing yearbooks and "talking shit" but it's catchy enough to ignore all of that. "Food Fight!" talks about partying also. I didn't listen to much else but I assume it sucks. It's a good album to have on if you are having a pizza party though.

Pretend You're Us!

2008-04-05T13:01:00.001-07:00

Muxtape is this website where you like put up songs on it and people can be all like, "oh snap, they listenin' to this?"

Pretend you are Alex and I by listening to what we are listening to:

Bort

Jame Gumb

also here are two mp3's that you might enjoy after the listening:

mp3:Estelle ft. Kanye West - American Boy

mp3:Paper Route Gangstaz - Bama Gettin Money (Diplo Remix)

Popsicle Review: Visiter

2008-04-04T18:39:00.000-07:00

I usually shy away from attempting to write up an album after P4k has already done so, let alone with an album that receieved the, oh so prestigious, "Best New Music" label. But after hearing this stellar album from this San Fran twosome the Dodos I had to give them atleast some ups. With the usual bullshit you see P4k upping you either expect some monotonous sounding dance, dance-punk, disoco-punk, remixes of the above, or, strangely enough, freak folk. So the unexpecting listener might have been preparing for a pounding beats with an overweight hipster singing on top, or they may have expected sparse guitar with shrill squealing lyrics being spit out above it. Well, prepare to be fucked in your ear pussy. It is amazing the kinds of things duos are able to accomplish today, this band sputters out tunes that sound like they could have been accomplished by only a full ensemble, they sound like Animal Collective at times. And lyricists and singer Meric Long's voice is a soothing shift away from that yuppie from Vampire Weekend or the like. It is easy to compare this band to Animal Collective, especially from a percussion standpoint, the drummer is very versatile and able to change the way one sees a drummers role should be, akin to Panda Bear. In "Joe'z Waltz", the Dodos descend into a great bluesy tune that shows how this band is not afraid to take chances. I have several term papers to work on, so I won't turn this review into a dissertation on the band (like some people we know) but I just had to get in a few words about this band. You will not be dissappointed with this record, trust me. P.S. Check out those shoes! I have wanted those Lakai Manchesters for quite a while now!

Congrats on the Face, Bro!

2008-04-03T12:43:00.000-07:00

It's no surprise that the entire world of skateboarding has turned its back on Ryan Sheckler. And after laying my little peepers on this [insert interchangeable acne cream company name] commercial, I couldn't help but wish the little fella would, you know, suck a tail pipe. This little shit would sell out any of his fellow skateboarders, and the entire sport (me and Riley argue over whether or not its a sport, so for now let's call it good old fashioned fun) for fame; and now, finally, he has actually sold his dignity so he could make a few bucks. Well, he does join the illustrious crew whom already mindlessly endorse this product: Jessica Simpson and P. Diddy (bad boys for life). Let us take a moment of silence and mourn for this lost soul... He states, "I was wearing tights pants, small t-shirts, long hair...", well, congratulations man, now you're a tool.

Hsu? New Shoe? Blue? HELL YEAH!

2008-04-01T17:58:00.000-07:00

Jerry Hsu, our resident asian-american hero, has finally released his brand new pro model for the totally rad, like totally non-corporate company, Emerica. Okay, so I'm not too big on Emerica, but I sure as hell love me some Jerry Hsu (running Enjoi bias [did I mention they're our parent company?]) and his shoe looks great! I never was a fan of high or even mid-tops, but Jerry chose some very agreeable colors and made them look stylish and functional. But the release party for the man's shoe was even better, it looks like some of the people were getting drunk for the first time! Check out these pics and make sure to go out and purchase your new Hsu's (this pun is priceless) as soon as your nearest skate shop gets them in! Respect!

Fear and Loathing in Hunts Vegas

2008-03-20T19:42:00.000-07:00

Benzi and Diplo are putting out a paper route records mixtape. purveyors of "wood grain" and "rollin'" which I think were 2 of the best rap records of 2007. coming soon on mad decent. here is a sampler. sounds like its going to be great.

MP3 Download

via urb

Popsicle Review: Let the Blind Lead Those Who Can See But Cannot Feel

2008-02-25T06:47:00.000-08:00

Well, I finally had a chance to fully listen and digest Bradford Cox's latest release under his solo moniker, Atlas Sound. I didn't have much solo-Bradford experience beyond a cover of Grizzly Bear's "Knife" (Which I didn't quite get) and a few singles here and there. To put it bluntly, I've never been very impressed. Which is why this record absolutely blew me away. Each song has its own unique charm as well as a very prsonal aspect. One song is about a girl who Cox proposed to (in 5th grade), another is about a death in his family that hit him hard, and there is even one inspired by bite marks left after a homosexual make out session. The only negative aspect of it was the dreamy, atmospheric texture seemed to shroud Cox's melodies. But when you step back and look at this album as a whole or peer into the minutae of synths and fuzzy guitar you will not be dissappointed.

Commercial Humor

2008-02-13T06:28:00.000-08:00

I was going to lay off on commenting on Art Brut's latest break into Hollywood with their T Mobile commercial. But then I saw another troubling advertisement that also caught my eye. Two men, from different sectors of "show business", who I find humorous and entertaining have made the jump, or should I say plummet, into mainstream television advertisement. T Mobile fails to harness the humorous nature of the Art Brut front man Eddie Argos, and Denny's makes a mockery of Paulie "Walnuts" in their respective commercials. You have to head over to Idolator to check out the Argos ad but we have poor Tony Sirico's Denny's sell right here.

Popsicle Review: Heretic Pride

2008-02-10T13:15:00.000-08:00

The hardest bands to review are those who have released wide discographies that span decades as well as those who have transformed over time making it nearly impossible to compare their early work with new releases. The Mountain Goats, however, posess both of these features. With nearly three-hundred songs under his belt and a career reaching back to his reggae days in college in the early nineties, as well as a stark contrast between the type and quality of music produced, any new release by John Darnielle is very hard to review and rate.

I like to break John down into two eras: the Panasonic Boombox era, and the studio era. Since Heretic Pride fits into the latter, its easiest to review it with albums like Tallahassee, The Sunset Tree, and Get Lonely in mind. The record opens with a Sax Rohmer #1 in which we see John pounding on the guitar and belting out his highly lyrical prose. After hearing this single I had such high hope for the new album that I actually knew I would be disappointed. And as I foretold I was, slightly.

The album begins to sound too predictable and because of how over-produced he is now it almost overshadows his lyrical genius. The record has no memorable lines, and something that Darnielle is great at doing is putting a phrase into our minds forever. It seems that John has completely shifted his focus onto his music rather than his lyrics which is very troubling for any true Mountain Goats fan. This album is far more listenable than the last release from Darnielle, Get Lonely, but The Sunset Tree still overpowers any of his other studio releases to this date. It seems that all Darnielle fans can hope for is his return to the old boombox recordings.

Rating: 5 Popsicles
[Since this is the first review I'll explain the rating system. The album will get from 1 to 10 popsicles, 10 being perfect and 1 being Icky Thump]

Happy Birthday J Dilla

2008-02-07T18:33:00.000-08:00

On the 10th it will have been 2 years since J Dilla passed away. Dilla is one of my favorite producers of all time, and his music never seems to lose that spark it had when I first heard it. Today is Dilla's birthday, if you have never heard his work, give yourself a present and check some out.
Grab the Thank you Jay Dee Act 3 Podcast on itunes. Over an hour of Dilla classics.

Some standout dilla tracks...

A Tribe Called Quest-1nce again

This song changed how I thought about hip hop. 1996. I didn't even know what a producer was then. 10 years later I realized Dilla did the beat.

J Dilla - Nothing Like This

When I first heard this song I wasn't sure what to think. A bit different, but the video is great.

J Dilla - Won't Do

Classic Dilla style and swagger. Posthumous video featuring his brother.

Highlights from Donuts

10 Minutes of Donuts, if these don't get your head nodding I don't know what will.

Ghostface in Rehab!

2008-02-06T11:43:00.001-08:00

Big Doe Rehab, that is. In the video from his first single off of "The Big Doe Rehab", we see Ghostface Killah in all his glory, discussing what he has been doing to fight his addiction. Ghost can't quite kick his old habits, and this hot nurse isn't helping.

Celebrate!

Lil' Wayne Still Loves Coke

2008-02-05T08:52:00.000-08:00

After being arrested on yet another drug charge one would assume the high profile, yet inordinately relaxed rapper Lil' Wayne would probably lay low on the drug glamourization. But after viewing his new, live video, which was shot in San Diego, of his newest song "Gossip", it seems that he might have upped his drug reppin'. The crowd goes wild everytime Weezy snorts some "air coke". I'm sure his lawyers hope that he'll start "using his head" and keep the drug references to a minimum... well at least until his arraignment.

Between Two Ferns

2008-01-18T07:41:00.000-08:00

Check out this serious interview between two silly people.

this is also pretty funny for those sad Arrested Development fans out there.

New Silver Jews Album, Interview

2008-01-05T08:49:00.000-08:00

There's a great interview over at Pitchfork of Silver Jews' Frontman David Berman talking about the new record Lookout Mountain, Lookout Sea. Berman talks about the progress of the album and getting a new eye because the old one was stomped on in a fight and had a growth on it. Great read.

mp3: Silver Jews - People

...

also, for those in wait for P.T. Anderson's epic There Will Be Blood to come to a theatre near them, read through this interview with the main man himself over at The A.V. Club

Mark Ronson presents Rhymefest - Man in the Mirror

2008-01-04T15:21:00.001-08:00

I haven't listened to much Rhymefest. I loved "Brand New", but thought it might just be because of the Kanye appearance. Slept on him for a while but my interest was renewed with "Angry black man in an elevator". If you haven't heard Rhymefest, here is a good, free, and legal way to get a taste. Mark Ronson put together this mixtape which is a dedication to Michael Jackson, with Fest going back and forth with old samples of Jacko talking. Pretty funny skits. With tracks featuring Popsicle goldenboys Wale and Ghostface, Talib Kweli, and ronsonite Daniel Merriwether, this mixtape is a great listen. Rhymefest's El Che is set to drop this year.

Download Link

In other Ronson news, Mark is featured as guest dj on today's NPR All Songs Considered. He plays some good stuff and the interview is pretty interesting. Bob Boilen loves Wale!

Listen Here

Rojo serious about going pro... seriously.

2007-12-29T16:23:00.000-08:00

Click here to watch Enjoi's most hispanic am, Jose Rojo, talk about his devotion to skateboarding and his decision to go pro.

Ghostface Killah Doll

2007-12-27T16:17:00.000-08:00

1997 Flashback

2007-12-21T20:45:00.000-08:00

Being 12 years old and living in Maine rap music wasn't too common. This song definitely showed me how great hip hop could be.

Luckily my fondness for ska (if you can even call them that) didn't extend past this. Say what you want about how lame horns are, but Dicky Barret had an awesome voice. Sounded like shit in a good way.

Great song, videos got flames and shit. Just listen, I don't need to explain this one.

fuckin gold tanks and mia x. No limit in it's heyday.

Amazing song and Michel Gondry made an amazing video.

Also thankful I didn't delve any further into this genre. But this song was great when I was 12 and hopped up on pixie sticks.

7's of 2007

2007-12-21T20:07:00.000-08:00

This year I didn't really pay attention to music. With all the crap on the internet these days it's impossible to try to keep up with whatever is cool this half hour in the blogosphere. That being said, the year had a few great releases from old favorites and a few surprises from artists that I stumbled upon on that same blogosphere.

Albums
1. Kanye West - Graduation
Really not much I can say about this album that hasn't been said. Production is ridiculous, samples are amazing, lyrics are great, art is great. I went into this album completely burnt out on the first 2 singles and was ecstatic about what the rest of it contained. Thoughtful and motivating music with beats to match.
Favorite Track - I wonder

2. Radiohead - In Rainbows
I've never been a Radiohead fan. I liked them but just never got into them too deep. Couldn't pass up a "pay what you want" album. (I didn't pay, sorry radiohead! i will next time!) Again, nothing I can say about this that hasn't been said. Great album, in some ways a great move for the music business.
Favorite Track - Videotape

3. J Dilla - Ruff Draft
I know this is just a 2007 re-release but I had never heard it so I'll count it. This album shows why Dilla was one of the best of all time, able to stand even without the vocals as a great album. With some of Jay's best rhymes and an appearance from fellow Detroitian Guilty Simpson, you won't be upset that the vocals stayed.
Favorite Track - Reckless Driving

4. Wale - 100 Miles and Running
Yes I am putting a mixtape on my top whatever. Came across this and downloaded without having any clue who or what this Wale was. The production on this is very unique and anyone who's favorite MC is Black Thought will probably catch my ear. Great wordplay, great beats, great style, and he's got Mark Ronson's seal of approval.
Favorite Track - Rediscover Me

5. Jose Gonzalez - In Our Nature
I got on this album way late this year. I had his previous record and loved it, but never really followed what he was up to and didn't know he had a new one. Simple guitar and a haunting voice that still gives me chills. Beautiful record.
Favorite Track - Cycling Trivialities

6. Madlib - Beat Konducta 3+4
This year the less vocals in music the better. Bollywood samples that I can't understand work fine. Madlib found some real gems in this and as usual everything knocks. This album makes me wish I smoked weed.

7. Little Brother - Much anticipated return from NC's finest. Came back and proved that the duo could stand without 9th Wonder. Even got Lil Wayne on the album on a track I always skip because the LB boys outshine him. Some low points but the highs make the album a success in my eyes.
Favorite Track - Dreams

The Top 5 Biggest Disappointments of 2007

2007-12-13T16:23:00.000-08:00

Rarely do you find a blog that rewards mediocrity or downright lack of talent. Well here at The Popsicle we are quite different. In this, now annual, list of the biggest let downs of the year, we explore the albums that were not only over-hyped, but were also over anticipated by us. Be prepared to have your minds blown.

5. Bloc Party- A Weekend in the City

Instead of following up their highly acclaimed release, Silent Alarm, with the same driving force of pure rhythmic chaos from drums underneath guitar riffs that could sink ships, Bloc Party sinks into a malaise that was even considered similar to recent U2 releases. Maybe Kele should have spent more time trying to perfect a great record than beefing with every artist he could get his grubby paws on.

4. Against Me!- New Wave

Yes, it is true that one should not have expected much from these former D.I.Y. punk rockers after their switch to a major label. But, come on! This record was not just a let down, it was a complete travesty! Butch Vig did more to turn Against Me! into a band that sounded more like Nickelback than Tegan Quin could hope to even save. This may not have been that highly anticipated, but it turned out so badly that it just must be mentioned.

3. Bright Eyes- Cassadaga

This must be no surprise to any fan of the indie rock pioneer Conor Oberst. It seems certain that an album may not be all it's cracked up to be when it is filed under Alternative Country (no offense Ryan Adams) but this was just not up to par in the slightest bit. With one track that has even a little prospect of being great and many that sit there like like some boring kid eating lunch by himself, Oberst certainly has redefined himself. Yeah we know you love Neil Young but it may be getting a little too obvious now. Conor Oberst sings "Yeah, I've made love, yeah, I've been fucked, so what?" Well anyone who payed for this album sure got fucked as well.

2. Modest Mouse- We Were Dead Before the Ship Even Sank

"Johnny joined Modest Mouse!?!?" No way! It took Modest Mouse several years to churn out an answer to Good News... and with the addition of the legendary Smith's guitarist this is looking to be their most prominent album yet, right? Wrong! Modest Mouse goes all wrong with the radio friendly release that could not have come more ready for mainstream ears. The Moon and Antarctica was used for several commercials, that goes the same for Good News..., but it seems that Isaac and his cronies crafted this work for the sole purpose of commercial use. Sad? Abslolutely. Let down? You bet!

1. The White Stripes- Icky Thump

And now we come to the biggest disappointment of 2007. This may come as a surprise to some loyal Stripes fans, but this was not only a let down, I consider it one of the worst albums of 2007. After the single Icky Thump leaked, many fans had high hopes for a strange, improvised, and over all original release. But at times the album either was too strange (St. Andrew) or too straightforward (You Don't Know What Love Is). The latter track was just drivel. After personally spending day after day scouring the internet for some leaked link and hours downloading said link (in India no less!) I felt cheated. And over all, I felt so let down that I find it hard to listen to the White Stripes to this day.

Andrew Reynolds' Drunk Days

2007-12-07T08:10:00.000-08:00

From the vaults of Epicly Later'd. Enjoy The Boss punching people and running through trees with cars.

You can turn it off once he starts talking about rehab.

Video: Girl Talk - Bounce That

2007-12-07T07:27:00.000-08:00

This is an unofficial video for Girl Talk's "Bounce That".

Check Girl Talk out in real life on January 29th at Club Downunder.

"Feed the Need"!

2007-12-03T12:01:00.000-08:00

Check out Caswell Berry's part from the newest Osiris video.

MJ Nabs Thrasher's Skater of the Year

2007-12-02T11:05:00.000-08:00

There has been so much fanfare this year around Koston's Lakai debut that many skateboarders have lost sight of the proverbial "diamonds in the rough". The still active, yet unsponsered, member of our beloved Enjoi crew, Marc Johnson, won higly acclaimed Skater of the Year award over many more exposed skaters (We won't even mention that one kid with his name tattood on his back). I personally chalk this up as a victory for real skateboarders, the one's who still enjoy skateboarding for what it is.

Congratulations Marc!

Stream Ghostface Killah's The Big Doe Rehab

2007-11-28T09:31:00.000-08:00

Check it out right here

The Hood Internet's Mixtape Volume Two

2007-11-22T12:02:00.000-08:00

Hey Babies. Happy Thanksgiving! The Hood Internet just released their second mixtape for free on their site. I've heard some gems from it already.

Like this...

mp3: MIMS vs. Interpol - There's No MIMS in Threesome

Enjoy your greenbean casseroles.

Smart Dumb Cats

2007-11-15T18:35:00.000-08:00

Riley's Ghostface posts recently reminded me of this clip. Definitely a good watch.

Also, World According to Pretty Toney the book drops sometime this month. With companion audio CD of Ghost reading the book. Lolz.

Feeling myself like I've lost my keys

2007-11-15T15:18:00.001-08:00

Mark Ronson's new video for 'Valerie' off 2007's 'Version' dropped. I have yet to get version but have greatly enjoyed Marks earlier releases. Off the heels of the 'oh my god' video featuring an animated lily allen, Mark continues the trend of not featuring the female singers in videos, and trades Amy Winehouse for a group of much better looking/less drunk girls, whom he refers to as the "winettes". Great song, simple and well done video. Best of all is the intro performance by the Popsicles favorite D.C. export, Wale.

In other Wale news, he landed the itunes free single of the week with 'Nike Boots'. I'm in love with this track, fire up your itunes and get some legal free music this week and make sure to leave some comments on itunes saying how much you love it. People are giving Wale a lot of flack saying that this is another shoe joint a la 'Air force ones', when the lyrics clearly show otherwise. Wale for prez 08'

New Ghostface and Wu-Tang Clan Mp3's

2007-11-14T20:19:00.000-08:00

Check out Spine Magazine for new mp3's from Ghostface Killah's "The Big Dough Rehab" and Wu-Tang Clan's "8 Diagrams". Only listened to Barrell Brothers so far and it's great.

and for the lazy...

mp3: Ghostface Killah - Barrell Brothers (The Big Dough Rehab)

Hassler is Comfy in Nautica

2007-11-09T11:03:00.000-08:00

Regretfully we are quite late with this post, but another skater from The Popsicle's favorite skate team, Enjoi, has crossed over the musical threshold. Clark Hassler stars in the video for Panda Bear's "Comfy in Nautica". This is one of my personal favorites from the highly acclaimed album, Person Pitch.

1997 Modest Mouse Documentary

2007-11-09T08:39:00.000-08:00

For our ever increasing fanbase:

This is a 1997 documentary of Modest Mouse recording their album, "The Lonesome Crowded West" (one of my favorite albums of all time) and everything that entails. It features interviews with Doug Martsch (Built to Spill), Elliott Smith, and Calvin Johnson (Beat Happening). It's nice to see Isaac Brock in a natural environment, making jokes, choosing beers, and talking about dogs.

Modest Mouse Documentary

mp3: Modest Mouse - Bankrupt On Selling

Free The Need!

2007-11-08T04:26:00.000-08:00

In an unprecedented move, Osiris will release over 300,000 copies of the new video "Feed the Need" through various distribution channels throughout the world, increasing brand awareness among both hard-core and mainstream target segments. Osiris has partnered with Thrasher Magazine in the US, as well as Canadian skate magazine, SBC, and UK magazine, Sidewalk Surfer, to polybag a copy of the video in upcoming issues of each magazine. In addition to this, they will include copies with decks purchased from several companies.

The premiere of the video attracted some savory as well as unsavory characters.

Mustache...?

Come on Caswell, we thought you were better than this.

NICE HAIRCUT LOU!

New Wu-Tang Clan Mixtape

2007-11-07T11:45:00.000-08:00

To tide fans over until December, Wu-Tang Clan has released a mixtape. You can download it for free at loud.com (search through it)

here's a little sample

mp3: Wu-Tang Clan - Break That Break ft. ODB

also check out the Girl Talk tour dates here. Note what it says for January 29th.

WALE

2007-11-01T19:44:00.000-07:00

Riley and I have been loving Wale since his mixtape this summer, and lately he has been dropping some good remixes. First he had the audacity to smear hip hop all over the indie-dance hit of the summer, Justice's "D.A.N.C.E.", then he stuck himself with 2 rocafella legends, Jay-Z and Freeway, on his "Big Spender" remix. Eli Escobar and Doug Grayson took a track by two artists I love that you probably hate, "Kiss Kiss" by Chris Brown featuring Teddy Penderazzdown. The guys flipped it into some Baltimore style club joint and Wale makes an R&B track his own.

And the man just snagged the cover of Urb Magazine, and stuck Justice in the background. Props!

Can - Sing Swan Song

2007-10-29T16:47:00.000-07:00

Kanye West is known (to me) for picking some really great samples for his albums. I just found out that the song "Drunk And Hot Girls" samples Can's "Sing Swan Song". The original song is amazing and it's a shame that it turned into one of the most embarrassing songs on "Graduation" about trying to get drunk girls home or something. Here is the original song though for you to listen to without Kanye and Mos Def singing over it.

mp3: Can - Sing Swan Song

and Paste Magazine is doing that Radiohead thing and letting you pay what you want. Grab a year's subscription for what you think it's worth. Right here.

Ghostface Killah - "Celebrate"

2007-10-25T06:18:00.000-07:00

This is the first single from Ghostface Killah's upcoming album "The Big Dough Rehab". It's great to hear Ghostface rap over anything but it helps that it's a great sample. He just wants to celebrate.

mp3: Ghostface Killah - Celebrate

Circa team hits up Florida skateshops

2007-10-23T12:28:00.000-07:00

As part of their "Tour De Smash", Tony Tave, Sierra Fellers, Abdias Rivera, Windsor James, Dennis Durrant and Julian Davidson of the C1RCA team, will be appearing at several skateshops in Florida. These youngsters will be trekking around the sunshine state from November 1st to November 12th. Check them out at any of these dates and places:

11/01 - Outer Limitz-Northside location River City Marketplace, 13221 City Station Drive #133, Jacksonville, FL 32218

11/02 - Galactic G 334 E. Harvard St, Orlando, FL 32804

11/03 - Westside Skate Shop 39332 US Hwy 19N Tarpon Springs, FL 34689

11/09 - MIA 1850 NW 84th Ave, Suite 108, Doral, FL 33126

11/10 - Shred Shed 3073 Forest Hills Blvd, West Palm Beach, FL 33406

11/11- 24/7 Skateshop 1700 W. New Haven Ave, #509, Melbourne, FL 32904

Mentioned

2007-10-22T11:10:00.000-07:00

Stereogum posted something about Indie Rock T-Shirts and one of mine was used for this. The "I'm Clever" t-shirt stolen from "Bort". This is my 15 seconds of fame and I want to soak it up. Also, I think they should make a shirt that says "Half Japanese Girls Do It To Me Everytime".

Kanye West - The Graduate

2007-10-22T10:39:00.000-07:00

This guy, Kanye West, released a mixtape recently entitled "The Graduate". It is available for free right here. I have listened to it a little bit so far and it is worth it for this song alone.

mp3: Kanye West - Get Em High (ATRAK REMIX)

The Knife's "Heartbeats" is sampled here for our pleasure.

Black Lips Diploed

2007-10-22T10:29:00.000-07:00

Hey there! Vice has an mp3 of the Black Lips song "Veni Vidi Vici" getting remixed by Diplo. You'll love it!

mp3: Black Lips - Veni Vidi Vici (Diplo Remix)

B-Ball Zombie War

2007-10-18T14:51:00.000-07:00

I'm a little behind, but I just starting listening to Peanut Butter Wolf's compilation B-Ball Zombie War. It is great from what I've heard. Here is a little sample of what you could be listening to now. It's an equal opportunity song.

Mp3: CX KIDTRONIK feat. TCHAKA DIALLO - Big Girl, Skinny Girl

Clues News Part Two

2007-10-17T12:06:00.000-07:00

This man, cowbellanarchy, has Alden Penner's band Clues' first performance at Pop Montreal. Check it out below.

This has been brought to my attention by
The Secret Unicorns Forum

Heard Somebody Say

2007-10-17T10:57:00.000-07:00

From Gigwise, Devendra Banhart has been making mix CDs for Lindsay Lohan in rehab. "She totally dug them."

via largehearted boy

Also, check out Pitchfork for a video of Girl Talk performing "Knife" with Ed Droste from Grizzly Bear.

Girl Gonz Wild

2007-10-16T13:39:00.000-07:00

Internet Findings

2007-10-16T08:13:00.000-07:00

The A.V. Club has Panda Bear's ipod shuffling.

The new Hype Machine is up.

Youth in Revolt Movie 2009.

New Wu-Tang Clan - The Heart Gently Weeps via The Beeb Blog

and Clipse gives us Kanye West - Flashing Lights (Remix)

We are getting our best of 2007 list ready. I think I'm going to have to sacrifice some Pitchfork points this year. Also, we need some space for Black Lips.

Way to go with Vitamin Water, Danny!

2007-10-15T13:03:00.000-07:00

Here at The Popsicle, we tend to lean towards Glacéau's Vitamin Water when it comes to our flavored water needs. And we are happy to report that so does two-time skater of the year Danny Way. Way has started to appear in Vitamin Water advertisements and contrary to what haters may think, he sure deserves it. We hope Vitamin Water will keep Danny, who has suffered through more than SEVEN surgeries while at the same time setting numerous big air records, healthy enough to one day ollie the Atlantic Ocean.

REAL TALK

2007-10-12T16:16:00.000-07:00

This is too funny not to post.

via TSS

Blue Magic Video

2007-10-11T19:26:00.000-07:00

Video is pretty basic, production is pretty basic other than those mortal kombat synths. But you can't really argue with new Jay-Z. Looks like Jay followed Kanye's lead and is dropping some cash on art in addition to chains and rolls royce's.

and here's Jerry Hsu's Top 5 for Crailtap. He wants to get his act together!!!

Also, I will give someone 50 dollars if they give me the correct order of Lakai riders. Don't forget to enter the contest.

Arcade Fire - Neon Bible

2007-10-11T19:00:00.000-07:00

I'm Andy and I guess I will be periodically guest blogging for the popsicle. I'll probably post a lot of music videos and hippie propaganda.

It seems lately that bands are all about new ways to promote and distribute their music, this is definitely an interesting one. Tapping into the viral/mysterious/what the hell was that realm of the web, Arcade Fire's backwards url'ed promo is like a music video where you decide what random things happen at what times. The design of the site is sparse, asking you only to watch, then either view the credits or replay. Not pushing anything, just something to enjoy. Give it a try yourself.

via cliptip

Zach Condon enjoys Big "Joe Red"

2007-10-11T14:59:00.000-07:00

Okay, Okay, The Popsicle hasn't been too accepting of the relatively new, Enjoi team rider Jose Rojo, but after watching the extras in Enjoi's breakthrough movie, Bag of Suck, it's evident that he didn't get the best parts put into his section of the movie. I guess we aren't the only ones realizing Jose's true potential; Zach Condon of Beirut recently approached Rojo as if he were an adoring fan and invited him out to party (we all know how crazy Beirut can get at parties). It's great to learn that our favorite skateboarders have good music taste and great musicians appreciate skateboarding. See Jose's conversation about it here.

Girl Talk Loves Taco Bell

2007-10-11T12:30:00.000-07:00

According to Pitchfork, Girl Talk's Gregg Gillis has won 500 dollars worth of Taco Bell from a contest of theirs. Read the story and then grab a brand new Girl Talk song here from the Illegal Art Sampler.

Cole and Bradford BFF

2007-10-11T10:42:00.000-07:00

This month's Fader magazine has an interesting interview with Deerhunter's Bradford Cox conducted by Black Lip's Cole Alexander. See if you can download the new issue here. Full post coming soon. There are some interesting things that come to light between the two Atlanta residents.

Juno Trailer

2007-10-10T18:41:00.000-07:00

While we're still cummimg all over Michael Cera we might as well mention him as the impregnating protagonist of "Juno". A movie starring Arrested Development's Jason Bateman also.

the song in the trailer
Mp3: The Moldy Peaches - Anyone Else But You

via Who Killed The Mixtape

Black Lips on Conan O'Brien

2007-10-10T10:32:00.000-07:00

Black Lips performed on Conan last night. You'll be very excited after you've watched it.

and on another late night show. Justice on Jimmy Kimmel with Rick James and Rod Stewart (look-a-likes)

Clark and Michael

2007-10-09T14:13:00.000-07:00

Michael Cera fans should be catching up with the best show on the internet in its entirety.

clark and michael

If that's not enough Cera for you, check out the goldenfiddle post about his new movie.

Lakai - Fully Flared

2007-10-08T11:59:00.000-07:00

We've waited long enough. The first video from Lakai is being released on November 16th. Featuring new footage from Marc Johnson, Mike Carroll, Eric Koston, and many more.

Check out the trailer below.

PRO SPOTLIGHT: Corey Duffel

2007-10-08T10:56:00.000-07:00

Everyone who skateboards is familiar with Corey Duffel. He's the one that dresses up in Halloween outfits and embarrasses himself in every interview he has ever done. Whether it's spouting out racist things from deep within about fellow pro skateboarders or homophobic gay bashing, Duffel always has a variety of fun tidbits to say that add to his character.

Here is a nugget from his interview with Big Brother at the sweet and tender age of 16. corey duffel big brother interview

"Yeah, yeah, it's like the guys come and try to hit on me at concerts. They see me in my leather jacket, and the mohawk faggots come up to me, and they're like, "Oh, hey, what's up, baby?" I'll pull out my switchblade, like, "Get away from me, I ain't no fag."

I hate when that happens to me. There's more. The context for the next one is that he and his girlfriend get confused for a lesbian couple. Pretty everyday stuff.

"We were sitting in Wendy's once, and some nigger comes up to us, like, "Hey, Lesbians, get down on your knees and give me some blowjobs right now." That's the only time she has ever felt like a lesbian. He was like some trashy nigger like Stevie Williams, like gold fronts, like sketchy and had a pistol in his pocket, so I pretty much had to listen to whatever he said, like you don't want to talk back to him, so that's the only time she probably felt like a lesbian."

The remark about Stevie Williams cost the young Corel Duffel some sponsers. Duffel is now 23 and his personality has changed immensely. From his recent Thrasher interview, it seems he has come a long way. He doesn't make any racist comments or use the "n-word" even once when desciribing someone. Duffel instead focuses on fat people and bashes homosexuals slightly less.

Corey Duffel has come a long way. He is a regular guy who occasionally gets a chance to make public statements that are a window to his complicated soul. He is a hero among heroes for us all. Next time you are watching his various video parts, remember not to seperate the skateboarder too far from his personal convictions because remember...right when he steps off the skateboard after a trick, when the camera stops filming, you just know he's about to spit in someone's face or grab his nutsack in accomplishment. We can only hope.

Clues News

2007-10-08T10:14:00.000-07:00

The two of us here at The Popsicle are big fans of the sludge-crust band, The Unicorns. Alden Penner, formerly of The Unicorns, is working with a new band called Clues. They have released an album sampler of what I'm sure is going to be an amazing album. Pick it up at
Mp3:Clues Album Sampler

"I've never had a shaved head in my entire life!"

2007-10-08T09:41:00.000-07:00

Check out the Enjoi team in the video of the year: "Bag of Suck". With Jerry Hsu winning best video part and guys like Caswell Berry and Louie Barletta with amazing parts as well, this video is a clear cut winner. Dead Prez, Sonic Youth, and even Rod Stewart help make the soundtrack work well with each skater's part.(The downside is that Jose Rojo's part was a bit of a disappointment... but who are we to judge?)

Also, if you're into Spoon and Seth Rogan, you should make sure to scour Youtube for videos of this past weekend's SNL.