I've only had Madden 08 for a
day, but I think it's the best version of the game in years since EA
actually made an effort to add features and eliminate the glitchy gameplay.
It's like they did their job! Anyhow, if you want to play then send me
a message on Xbox Live. My gamertag is Renholder.
Don't have an Xbox 360? That's OK. I made a snazzy EP to help
you fill the void. Enjoy.
:The
Somnambulants - Take It On:
For a band that made the smallest of blips on the radar due to the Half
Nelson soundtrack (which I've never heard) they sure are being buzzed
about like the world has been anxiously awaiting the arrival of their
album, Paper Trail. Now, that isn't to say their spacious take
on New Order isn't worth the positive talk. I just think it's amazing
how a band can suddenly garner a ton of attention if the bloggers get
excited about them.
:One
For The Team - Best Supporting Actor:
Vocalist's Ian Anderson and Grace Fiddler's pop enthused harmony remind me
of Mates Of State. The overall sound isn't necessarily the same, as it
is more indie rock than it is synth pop, but I can't help but think of the
famed husband/wife duo when Ian and Grace enthusiastically repeat lines
like: "It's good how you try to rebuild your life." Look out for a new
LP later this year.
:Grace
Potter And The Nocturnals - Ah Mary:
This veteran group just released their third full length, This Is
Somewhere. I've never really taken the time to explore their other
discs, so I can't say if this is too different or not. I just know
that it's a crisp, energetic pop rock tune sung by 24 year old. That
should totally be reason enough to at least check it out a couple of times,
right?
:The
Alarmists - Hired Gun:
Here is another one from Afternoon Records (One For The Team is as well)
that is on the verge of releasing a new album. Their LP is titled
The Ghost And The Hired Gun and by the sound of this single it appears
as if it will have all kinds of upbeat pop rock that's energetic and full of
catchy melodies. For me, that's more than enough reason to give it a
shot whenever it drops.
:Casper
And The Cookies - Power Stupid:
"Calling all animals!" I have no doubt that this spastic pop gem would
be amazingly fun if seen/heard live, which is good since their shows are the
only place where their new disc, 3 1/2 Stars, can be found.
Luckily, they tend to play with quality artists like Apples In Stereo,
Daniel Johnston and Elekibass, so attending a performance has even more
incentive to go.
-
John Laird -
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