Airbag Radio

THIS BLOG HAS MOVED

2010-11-03T23:39:00.000-07:00

Hey Y'all, just droppin' a line to make sure you know where to get all the latest and greatest. Airbag Radio is now located at airbagradio.wordpress.com. Catch up on what's new and what you've been missing. Peace!

Airbag Radio

Feed Your Ears

Moving Day!!!

2010-04-13T23:19:00.000-07:00

Hey, Hey, Hey! All you Airbaggers! Your favorite blog on the whole wide internet, Airbag Radio, is moving over to WordPress. We've had a blast here at Blogger for the past almost 3 years and are looking forward to all the music evangelizing yet to come. Why the move? We've got big plans. So get yourself over to www.airbagradio.wordpress.com and keep yours eyes open for big changes. Holla!

P.S. Don't forget to change your RSS subscriptions here.

Welcome Wagon

2010-04-04T12:17:00.000-07:00

Airbaggers, Please join us in welcoming to teh internets, Delicious Noise. What exactly is Delicious Noise you ask? It's only the latest and greatest in food and music blogging, and sure to become your new favorite blog, second only to Airbag Radio. So get yourself over there and start reading. Buen Provecho!

Updt: zOMG, no typos... teh internets.

Fooled...

2010-04-01T21:21:00.000-07:00

So, we we're totally April Fooled today by this. Luckily we spared ourselves the embarrassment of a super giddy post. We were even all set to go out and buy a micro SD card reader just for this occassion. Haha!

Still Hungry?

2010-03-30T00:22:00.000-07:00

Here's even more Wilco below. Check out this beautiful impromptu performance recently filmed for La Blogotheque's Take Away Shows. Cheers!

Wilco - Country Disappeared - A Take Away Show from La Blogotheque on Vimeo.

LSTN UP:

2010-03-27T00:12:00.000-07:00

New from LCD Soundsystem below.

Can't wait for the album! (Out May 17th)

Moving...

2010-03-25T10:43:00.000-07:00

In preparation for 'The Takeover' (huh?) Airbag Radio is in process of transporting our domain, www.airbagradio.com. Any trouble finding us should be shortly resolved. More to come on said 'Takeover.' PS Don't register any domains with Yahoo. They charge a grip.

Wilco (The Food)

2010-03-15T08:04:00.000-07:00

Wilco fans, eat here and drink this.

Sublime?? Really??

2010-03-09T15:44:00.001-08:00

Sublime, the kings of SoCal dub-punk are back! Wait... What? Are you sure? Didn't Brad Nowell die? And wasn't he the creative force behind the band? The singer, guitarist, and songwriter? Sooo... How are they back? What?!? They replaced him?!? WTF?!? That's messed up right there. That's like Nirvana getting back together without Kurt Cobain. It just doesn't work. It doesn't make any sense. What's that you say? Oh, the other guys were like totally broke and thought that cashing in on their old glory days, without the guy that made those glory days happen, was more appealing than getting a job at IKEA. Classy! Well to Mr. Buddy Gaugh and Eric Wilson, we'd like to congratulate you on your complete lack of shame. (Insert grave roll here.) Good luck with all that...

X Years X Songs

2010-02-21T16:32:00.001-08:00

Fresh off the press from Airbag Manufactory, Airbag Radio's newest mix CD is out today! This one's called X, as in 10, as in the 10 years that we oh so affectionately refer to as the Roaring 2000's. One song from each year of the decade. A journey through the music that has shaped our lives. Hit us up at james@airbagradio.com to get yours!

And if your up to the challenge, we'd love to hear your X. What songs made up the soundtrack to your decade? Send your mix to Airbag Headquarters at 1510 15th Street, Unit A, Sacramento, CA 95814. Can't wait to hear what you've got. And who knows? If we like it, you may just end up on this blog.

DWNLD TH!S:

2010-02-19T14:24:00.000-08:00

We're back from the dead, as is Broken Social Scene. Get "World Sick" below. The long awaited full-length, Forgiveness Rock Record, is out May 4th.

Music Appreciation 101

2010-02-08T12:57:00.000-08:00

From Gil Scott-Heron:

"There is a proper procedure for taking advantage of any investment.

Music, for example. Buying a CD is an investment.
To get the maximum you must

LISTEN TO IT FOR THE FIRST TIME UNDER OPTIMUM CONDITIONS.

Not in your car or on a portable player through a headset.
Take it home.
Get rid of all distractions, (even him or her).
Turn off your cell phone.
Turn off everything that rings or beeps or rattles or whistles.
Make yourself comfortable.
Play your CD.
LISTEN all the way through.
Think about what you got.
Think about who would appreciate this investment.
Decide if there is someone to share this with.
Turn it on again.
Enjoy Yourself."

We echo Gil's advice with one exception, replace CD with record and the experience will be even more enjoyable.

Man, it's been a bender...

2010-02-04T22:48:00.001-08:00

...over the past week or so Airbag Radio made it out to see Two Sheds and Fruit Bats, hit up two nights of Sacramento Electronica Music Fest and catch Seawolf and The Album Leaf last night. Needless to say, it's been a fun week. Also needless to say, we're fucking beat. We've got much to say, but too little energy to harness all of our thoughts at the moment. So this weekend we retreat into the wilderness, much like Bon Iver, and hope to return with renewed spirit and, also much like Bon Iver, a masterpiece on par with For Emma, Forever Ago. OK, so maybe we won't return with the best album of the past ten years, but we can dream.

Here's what you can look forward to upon our return from sabbatical:

Airbag Radio's long overdue and highly anticipated recap on the best albums of 2009.

Also look for our long in-the-works and highly unexpected new mix CD, titled X.

Lastly, we'll reveal Airbag's first ever rock 'n' roll interviewee. Oh yeah!

Enjoy the weekend!

PS Keep your eyes peeled for Airbag Radio's Super Bowl ad. We broke the bank for this one!

See. Wolf.

2010-02-03T21:26:00.001-08:00

Seawolf

so...

2010-01-31T22:47:00.000-08:00

...the Grammy Awards were tonight and woops we missed it......oh, darn......well... no surprises just bla bla bla, and the award for something goes to bland and blander and I'd like to thank God and the Academy and Money, Money, Money......head to yer local Walmart and that's how we play "Who Wants To Be A Millionaire......

LiveBlogging SEMF

2010-01-29T15:41:00.000-08:00

OK, So this isn't exactly liveblogging. Technology failed us last night during our attempt to document the Sacramento Electronica Music Festival live and in person. Basically, we forgot to charge up the iPhone and got dangerously close to losing all contact with society via a dead battery. In lieu of serving you a live play-by-play, we went old school, taking notes with a combination of devices... one pen, one pad. Here we present our recorded thoughts to you, raw and unfiltered.

First up, Thriftcar. These guys straight put the beat down. This wasn't just a performance it was an all-out assault via dual MPCs. No ear was spared as the Auburn crew journeyed from dense to denser, building something out of nothing, again and again.

Following the Thriftcar set, DJ Whores took command of the 1's and 2's to provide a little interlude entertainment. After mixing just a couple of songs, it was apparent why this cat's name is everywhere... He's really, really good.

A lineup shift brought Boss Magic to the stage next. This newly formed band featured members of both Thrifcar and Vacant Persons and it was quickly apparent that this was a newly formed band. As the trio moved from atmospheric sounds into driving beats, the engine began to stall. Particularly rough was a confusing cover of Joy Division's classic "Love Will Tear Us Apart." The highlight of the set came when Sister Crayon graced the stage for a first time remix performance. Damn, she can sing! And props to Boss Magic for getting up in front of a crowd only a month into their existence. Hopefully more rehearsed work to come from this team.

As Seventh Swami took the stage, following another excellent fill by DJ Whores, the crowd demographic began to shift. The electroclash hipsters who filled the room during the early sets, were now outnumbered by the coms majors and sorority sisters on the hunt for cheap booze and cheap credibility. This, along with dying batteries, both of the phone and person type, was our queue.

SEMF continues tonight with Fuck Friday and performances from The New Humans and Melee Beats.

LiveBlogging SEMF

2010-01-28T21:52:00.001-08:00

First Set at Sacramento Electronica Music Festival: Thriftcar. These cats are fucking bombastic!

DWNLD TH!S:

2010-01-28T12:48:00.000-08:00

Jose Gonzalez's side project, Junip, has a new song, titled "Azaleadalen" over at RCRD LBL. This one's an instrumental number that builds slowly like rising bread. Jose announced this week via email that a Junip album and tour are forthcoming this year. Looking forward to it.

No Single Day Tix For Coachella?

2010-01-28T12:16:00.000-08:00

WTF?!? We are so fuming right now. Stay tuned for changing plans.

DWNLD TH!S: (FOR CHARITY)

2010-01-28T11:58:00.001-08:00

Wilco have posted two live concert recordings for download via the band's site. You're encouraged to make a $15 donation to the Emergency Relief Fund of either OXFAM or Doctors Without Borders in exchange for the downloads. (Honor system.) Help & Enjoy.

The Album Leaf

2010-01-28T11:19:00.000-08:00

Not sure if we already plugged this one, so we're plugging it here (again?). Electronic dream poppers The Album Leaf will be at Harlow's next Wednesday, February 3rd. Tickets are available at The Beat for just $12 (+ $1 handling). The band's new album, A Chorus Of Storytellers drops the day before. Get it at the show. Yes, we'll be there.

Get a preview of what's forthcoming in the video below.

Mixing in Iceland from TheAlbumLeaf on Vimeo.

PS The opening band will be Sea Wolf so get there early. Double goodness!

Sacramento Electronica Music Festival Lineup...

2010-01-28T10:38:00.000-08:00

...is out.

Get set times at the official blog. See you there tonight!

Hit The Pavement

2010-01-28T08:06:00.000-08:00

Everybody knows that Pavement is back this year. And you probably also know that one of the band's first shows back will be a headlining slot at Coachella. But for those of you who can't make the trek down to the desert this April, Pavement announced this week that they'll be making an appearance at Berkeley's Greek Theatre on June 25th. (That's a Friday for those about check their iCal.) Tickets go on sale this Sunday, but it you ask really nice we can get you the password for today's presale that kicks off at 10AM. Hit up james@airbagradio.com.

"I'm on the stereo, stere-oh-oh!"

DWNLD TH!S:

2010-01-26T12:17:00.000-08:00

Phoenix get all artsy on us with an unplugged session recorded for German magazine musikexpress. The acoustical awesomeness inlcudes a cover of Bob Dylan's "Sad Eyed Lady Of The Lowlands." Get it at thetripwire.

Sacramento Electronica Music Festival

2010-01-25T12:07:00.000-08:00

Can't wait for Coachella? Neither can we, but in the meantime we're super hyped for this weekend's Sacramento Electronica Music Festival going down over at the TownHouse Lounge in Midtown. Put on by the same folks who are bringing you tonight's Two Shed's performance, this one is sure to be a real barn burner. Three days of mad electronic blips and beeps from 25+ artists, both local and international. If you're a fan of the electro scene, you don't want to miss this, and if you're not a fan you still don't want to miss this. It's that awesome! Headlining artists include Tycho, Dusty Brown, Tha Fruitbat and Sactown's finest, Sister Crayon. It all goes down Thursday, January 28th, through Saturday, the 30th. At 10 bucks for a three day pass, this is a steal. Get more info and tickets at the festival's official site and be sure to check back here for a day by day report.

Airbag Radio looks forward to getting crazy with you there.

Come Out And Play...

2010-01-22T07:57:00.000-08:00

Weather got you down? Crawl out of your cave this Monday and get yourself over to Luigi's Slice in Midtown when hometown heroes Two Sheds open up for Portland's Fruit Bats. It all gets started at 8:00PM. Be there! You know we will.

Coachella Lineup

2010-01-19T16:08:00.001-08:00

That's right the lineup for the annual festival in the desert has been announced. This year Coachella's got the highly anticipated Pavement reunion, as well as an unexpected appearance from Radiohead's Thom Yorke. Other featured acts include Jay-Z, LCD Soundsystem, Grizzly Bear, MGMT, Dirty Projectors, Gorillaz and Spoon. Check the complete lineup below.

It all goes down in beautiful Indio, California, April 16th-18th. For those wondering, Airbag Radio will be in full force for Sunday's show. 3-Day tickets go on sale this Friday. No word yet on single day tix. More info at the official site.

Day Trippin'

2010-01-19T15:43:00.000-08:00

Fellow web trippers, point yer compass on over to The Random Griffith for a great read on Tower Records and an industry that once was.

The King Is Back...

2010-01-13T22:57:00.000-08:00

Forget about the Queen of The Whole Damn Universe because the King of Whole Damn Universe is back. No, not that King or that King. We're talking about the original gangster, the Man in Black, Mr. Johnny Cash!

A legend in his time and beyond, some of Johnny Cash's finest work came during his later years through his work with producer Rick Rubin. This collaboration yielded four majestic albums of intensely raw and brutally honest songs during Cash's life and one equally compelling posthumous release. Collectively, these releases are known as American Recordings Volume I-V and we highly recommend that you get down to your local independent record store and trade in everything you've got to get your ears around some of this greatness.

Why tell you all of this right now? Well good news came to us today when we heard that Johnny's final posthumous album is set to be released February 26th. Titled American VI, Ain't No Grave, this album serves as a bookend not only to the American series but to Cash's amazing collection of work. Can. Not. Wait!

PS For those shopping for birthday presents near the end of February we are inserting a birthday hint here.

LSTN UP:

2010-01-13T22:53:00.000-08:00

Spoon's newest album, Transference, isn't out until this Tuesday, but if you direct your internet browser over to NPR you can get a listen early. Enjoy!

SHE'S BAAAACK!!!!

2010-01-13T12:14:00.000-08:00

Queen of the Whole Damn Universe, M.I.A. is back from motherhood with a brand new album due out this summer. No title as of yet, but we do know that it won't "be gimmicky or silly or hipstery" according to Ms. Maya herself. Rumored on the internets, the album will include the song, "I'm Down Like Your Internet Connection," featuring Filipino Verizon workers singing the hook over the telephone. Now that's gangsta! Also swirling around on the internets is the video for "There's Space For Ol Dat I See." Check it our below. We've got our fingers crossed that this one makes in onto the full-length.

The Decade, Volume '03-'08

2010-01-08T11:42:00.000-08:00

So, bla-dee-bla-bla, it's 2010 and we never wrapped up our decade project highlighting our favorite albums of the past 10 years. So rather than drag this thing out into 2011, we thought we'd give you a concentrated dose with 2003-2008 in one shot right here and follow that with a wrap up of '09 sometime early next week (don't hold your breath). Again, we apologize for hanging this thing out to dry for so long, but we promise you it'll all be worth it in the end. Let's do this!

2003

Jay-Z - The Black Album

Hova's swan song wasn't just a farewell to the game and but also a final declaration of his supremacy in said game. It ain't boasting if it's true and in this case it was most definitely true. From beginning to end, Jay's lyrics and delivery were second to none. Though he would be back just a few years later, The Black Album was truly his finest hour. Highlights include "Encore," "What More Can I Say, " and "Lucifer."

Four More

The Postal Service - Give Up

Atmosphere - Seven's Travels

Yeah Yeah Yeahs - Fever To Tell

The Black Keys - Thickfreakness

2004

Arcade Fire - Funeral

What can be said about this album that hasn't already been said? Beautiful, soaring, anthemic. This album will shake the ground beneath your feet. One of the great debuts of all time. Highlights: "Wake Up" and "Neighborhood #1 (Tunnels)."

Four More

Danger Mouse - The Grey Album

The Streets - A Grand Don't Come For Free

Modest Mouse - Good News For People Who Love Bad News

Iron & Wine - Our Endless Numbered Days

2005

Bright Eyes - I'm Wide Awake, It's Morning

Both a document and a response to the time in which in it was made. Conor Oberst's lyrics capture the angst and confusion in the air after four years of Bush with four more to come. Killer music doesn't hurt either. Highlights: "Lua," "Another Travelin' Song," and "Road To Joy."

Four More

Death Cab For Cutie - Plans

Kanye West - Late Registration

Spoon - Gimme Fiction

Nine Inch Nails - [With Teeth]

2006

Cat Power - The Greatest

Recorded with Chan Marshall's new Dirty Delta Blues Band, The Greatest served as a turning point for Cat Power. The southern rhythm & blues backdrop provided the perfect environment to transition Chan's once angsty sultry voice into a Dirty Delta sultry voice. Highlights: "The Greatest," "Lived In Bars," and "Where Is My Love."

Four More

Thom Yorke - The Eraser

Beirut - The Gulag Orkestar

TV On The Radio - Return To Cookie Mountain

Johnny Cash - American V: A Hundred Highways

2007

Wilco - Sky Blue Sky

For the band's sixth full-length, Wilco peeled back layers of sonics to reveal subtle beauty and an incredibly tight group of musicians (musically speaking). Now, greatness is nothing new to Jeff Tweedy & Co. but here the music seems to exist on a higher plane, as if the sum of the parts is something much grander than one would have expected from the sum of the parts. Highlights: Every. Single. Song.

Four More

Radiohead - In Rainbows

M.I.A. - Kala

Feist - The Reminder

Explosions In The Sky - All Of A Sudden I Miss Everyone

2008

Bon Iver - For Emma, Forever Ago,

Written in recovery. Recorded in solitude. Haunting your mornings and your evenings. Like a thought you've had but haven't found the words to express, these songs have journeyed with you through life, you just didn't know it until now. Tears of sorrow. Tears of joy. Tears.

Four More

Portishead - Third

Girl Talk - Feed The Animals

Santogold

TV On The Radio - Dear Science

Public Relations

2009-12-21T21:45:00.000-08:00

Word on the street is that you can catch Airbag Radio's very own James Anthony on News 10 tonight at 11pm talking about blogging and the like.

DWNLD TH!S: (TODAY!!!)

2009-12-21T21:30:00.000-08:00

Lead Shin James Mercer + Danger Mouse = Broken Bells

(Today Only)

Well Done...

2009-12-18T23:51:00.000-08:00

Radiohead's Thom Yorke, crashed the Copenhagen Summit to witness the madness. Read his play-by-play here. Watch below.

DWNLD TH!S:

2009-12-14T14:10:00.000-08:00

Portishead's got a new track out titled "Chase The Tear." Get it here. Proceeds go to Amnesty International.

Airbag Radio presents...

2009-12-14T13:23:00.000-08:00

So This Is Christmas

That's right we've got a new mix out for the holidays and this ain't your grandma's Christmas music. Well, maybe it is, if your grandma is a total holiday hipster like us. Keep up your indie cred while still dabbling in the season's festivities with our new mix on blast. Aww yeah! Hit us up to get yers now.

Forget Santa Clause...

2009-12-14T13:13:00.001-08:00

...cuz The Album Leaf is coming to town. Be at Harlow's Wednesday, February 3rd, for the band's first show back from recording their new album, A Chorus Of Storytellers, out February 2nd. Get a preview of what's coming in the video below.

Mixing in Iceland from TheAlbumLeaf on Vimeo.

Say It Ain't So...

2009-12-14T12:21:00.000-08:00

Word on the street (and by street we mean internet) is that Red Hot Chili Pepper John Frusciante is no longer a Red Hot Chili Pepper. We've got our fingers crossed that this just isn't true. Although everyone in that band is amazingly talented, it's John who is the genius creative force behind the great music. Plus the last time he quit, the band totally sucked. We'll keep all y'alls posted.

Crayon Art

2009-12-14T11:38:00.000-08:00

As we posted last week, hometown heroes, Sister Crayon, have a new single out today titled "Here We Never Die." Grab it on iTunes or get a listen over at Manimal Vinyl, the band's new record label. (Yes, that's the same label where Bat For Lashes got her start.) Also forthcoming this February is an EP of new tunes titled Enter Into Holy (or)ders, followed by a national tour, followed by a full length LP in the fall.

If your wondering who the hell Sister Crayon is, let us be the first to welcome you to Sacramento. Sister Crayon is the best band to come out of this town since Deftones first made their mark on the national scene in 1994. And these kids are no overnight sensation either. This shit's been years in the making. In fact, the first time that Sister Crayon showed up on our radar was back in the early part of the decade, when lead singer Terra Lopez was part of electronic duo Kyoto Beat Orchestra and handed out fliers for shows from behind the cash register at Dimple Records. Upon finally witnessing a live KBO show in '06, we knew that there was something special going on. Simply put, Terra killed it. All beauty. All angst. Unfortunately, the Orchestra wasn't meant to be and the pair split up shortly after self-releasing their first album. (Side Note: We are still waiting to get our ears a listen to that one.) Fast forward to 2009, a couple of musical projects later, and we find Terra still killing it and Sister Crayon set to take on the country. No doubt, by the end of 2010, Sister Crayon will be showing up on countless "best of" lists.

For those of you who will be in (Sac)town for the holidays, Sister Crayon has a show lined up at Press Club on December 28th. Be there and be prepared for a full house. Sister Crayon is set to explode.

Sacto's Finest

2009-12-11T12:21:00.001-08:00

Final Flight

2009-12-11T11:30:00.000-08:00

News today from New Zealand's fourth most popular comedy-folk duo, Flight of the Conchords will not be returning for a third season of their popular HBO show. That's good news, because as much as we love those guys and their quirky jams, the second season was kind of a let down and we were a little worried that the third may end up being more of the same, e.g. too much Murray and Dave and not enough Bret and Jemaine. Let's hope for more brilliance from these guys in the near future. In the meantime, here's our favorite moment from season 1. Enjoy!

"Bowie's in Spayeeayeeayce!"

Gee, That's Swell

2009-12-03T23:02:00.000-08:00

Swell Season, Daytrotter, Here.

2009-12-01T22:09:00.000-08:00

The video below has us very confused right now.

For those wondering, yes, apparently that is Bob Dylan and the song comes from his newest album, Christmas In The Heart. We're not going to make any excuses for our hero, rather we would like to present much needed redemption via his performance at the 1965 Newport Folk Festival below.

Amen!

Quote To Remember:

2009-12-01T16:15:00.000-08:00

"...the Internet is just one big gossip chamber..." - Sufjan Stevens

More at Interview.

Something's Brewing...

2009-12-01T12:20:00.000-08:00

...over at www.jonsi.com. (And yes that's the same Jonsi of Sigur Ros fame.) Sign up and stay tuned!

And the award for blandest award show ever goes to...

2009-11-24T15:04:00.000-08:00

...the American Music Awards. Way to go! Indulge in the mediocrity here. Spoiler alert: Michael Jackson wins everything. Not sure why, considering he didn't release any albums since 2001. We're resisting the overwhelming urge to rant and leaving that to you. Don't let us down.

Who Knew?

2009-11-18T00:03:00.000-08:00

Apparently this guy still makes albums? Who knew?

The Decade, Volume '02

2009-11-16T21:39:00.000-08:00

Here we are! Back with our journey through the 2000's. Dropping science like Einstein. This time it's the Terrible Two's, as in 2002, which weren't that terrible for us, but sure were for one Mr. Beck Hansen.

Beck - Sea Change

It's been said that pain, drugs, or a combination of the two, produce the best art. Beck's Sea Change stands as evidence that at least the former is true. Inspired by breakup, Sea Change is a triumph in melancholia, equal parts sorrow and pain. Both lyrically and musically, Beck pulls you into his crumbled world and you can't help but feel for him. Sea Change is all the more noteworthy as it is a true digression from Beck's catalog of funky jams and quirky rhymes. It is a snapshot in time, a man reaching out through tears, grasping at a lyric and chord, telling the world "I am here, barely."

Four More

Sigur Ros - ( )

Earthshakingly beautiful. Only God could make music this heavenly. Are these not men?

Wilco - Yankee Hotel Foxtrot

A somber look at American life in the wake of a new reality. An amazing album with an equally amazing story, which can be witnessed in the documentary, I Am Trying To Break Your Heart.

Red Hot Chili Peppers - By The Way

One-time jesters of rock embrace a new sound with poise and style.

Queens Of The Stone Age - Songs For The Deaf

Hard. Ass. Rock. Times. One. Thousand. (Doesn't hurt to have Dave Grohl guesting on drums either.)

Girls & Boys, Boys & Girls

2009-11-12T15:44:00.000-08:00

"Fake it 'til you make it!," that's what we say. In the spirit of artistic interpretation we bring you an artistic interpretation of Animal Collective's jam of the year, "My Girls." This one is from Taken By Trees and has been appropriately retitled "My Boys." Check the vid below, yo.

Brooklyn, Stand Up...

2009-11-12T15:16:00.000-08:00

...Yer Famous! The current issue of New York Magazine prominently features the beloved Brooklyn Indie Music Scene as it's cover story. As part of the story, they've compiled a list of 40 songs that define the Brooklyn sound. Read more here, see if you favorite song made this list over at Stereogum.

Now That's What I Call Style!

2009-11-08T21:43:00.000-08:00

M.I.A. just earned herself an invitation to Airbag Radio's Shark Week festivities f0r 2010.

Scene 4

2009-11-06T22:50:00.000-08:00

Receive and you shall ask... (or is it...)...

The fourth and final volume of Airbag Radio's epic seasons series is here. That's right, what all began with Good Winter is finally coming to a close. All you Air-Heads out there better comment while the getting is good. And don't worry this isn't the end of the book, just the end of a chapter. Enjoy! (With a glass of whiskey in hand.)

Spoon's back!!! (Almost.)

2009-11-05T00:09:00.000-08:00

Spoon's forthcoming album, Transference, isn't due out until January 26th but you can get a new sneak peak here. Dig what we're hearing.

DWNLD TH!S:

2009-11-04T23:44:00.000-08:00

"Mind Eraser, No Chaser" from previously noted Them Crooked Vultures. Look for the band's self-titled debut at your favorite local record store November 17th. Enjoy!

The Decade, Volume '01

2009-10-30T11:50:00.000-07:00

And the hits don't stop here at Airbag Radio. This week we tackle the year that was 2001. The year that four unlikely cartoons from England burst onto the scene with a catchy little jingle known as "Clint Eastwood." That's right our pick for best album of 2001 goes to none other than Gorillaz.

All Pop, All Funk, All Brit, All Punk. Gorillaz self-titled debut defies all genres and categories and as a result can only be defined as great. The album's lead single "Clint Eastwood," featuring a ghostly Del on vocals, may in fact be the decade's best song. Masterminded by Blur's Damon Albarn, Gorillaz is as much a musical statement as an artistic one. In our world of manufactured pop icons and recycled celebrities, Gorillaz stand out as an ironic breath of fresh air. Four cartoons, a virtual band, standing head and shoulders above the "real" world. Beyond the irony, Gorillaz is pure fun. Give it a listen and you'll find yourself wishing you we're a cartoon too.

Four More

Jay-Z - The Blueprint

If Jay-Z wasn't already hip-hop's greatest rapper, he was after the Blueprint. This was the "Takeover!"

Radiohead - Amnesiac

The B-Side to the greatness that was Kid A. Amnesiac continues in the same vein with it's own unique mood.

System Of A Down - Toxicity

More metal from the early 2000's? Yes, but the difference is that these guys broke every rule you learned in your Music Composition class and still managed to take the world by surprise.

The White Stripes - White Blood Cells

Guitar + Drums = Everything You Need

The Decade, Volume '00

2009-10-23T10:50:00.000-07:00

The end is nigh! No, not that apocalyptic, fire-and-brimstone kind of end. The end of the decade is nigh. And as the 2000's come to a close, we at Airbag Radio are taking time to reflect on the past 10 years of music and all that our ears have enjoyed. For the next 10 weeks, we'll be featuring the best album of each year of the decade. It all starts here with Y2K, the millenium kickoff.

Radiohead - Kid A

Not only the best album of 2000, but likely the best album of the decade. At the time, Radiohead's Kid A was seen as a drastic departure from form for the band, however in retrospect, it can be seen more as a commitment to form as Thom Yorke & Co. continually pushed the envelope and moved in new directions with each subsequent release.

Kid A simultaneously embraces and pulls away from the dawning of new era. Drenched in electronic soundscapes, Thom Yorke's voice conjures up images of an old soul wrestling with our present future, a personal life lost in the magnitude of modern life. Does that make sense? No? It might after you listen to the album, or you may draw your own conclusions. Nonetheless, Kid A will make you uncomfortable, and in that discomfort you will likely arrive at a new understanding your world.

Beyond our artsy-farsty rambling-on, the music on this album straight kills. Dense beats, lofty beats, dense piano, lofty piano, muffled vocals, muddy vocals, strained vocals, soaring vocals. A true accomplishment in sound. Get your ears around this. Highlights include: "Everything In Its Right Place," "The National Anthem," and "Idioteque."

Four More

Here are four more greats from the year that was 2000.

The Hives - Veni Vidi Vicious

This one took a couple of years to catch on, but when it did it started a fire. All Rock. All Roll. All Rock & Roll. And matching suits to boot.

Deftones - White Pony

Sacto's finest move beyond the watered down metal scene of the late 90's, unleashing Chino's ethereal vocals and the bands atmospheric capabilities. At the same time White Pony never abandons the heavy core that makes Deftones Sacto's finest.

Eminem - The Marshall Mathers LP

His greatness can't be denied and this was Eminem at his peak. The world hated him and he hated the world right back.

Coldplay - Parachutes

If you're a regular here at Airbag Radio, you know how much we hate Coldplay today, but there was once a time when these now-douchebags weren't concerned with pleasing all the soccer moms of the world. Parachutes is subtle, great, and subtly great.

Fake It 'Til You Make It...

2009-10-14T11:41:00.001-07:00

We're back from hibernation with a new semi-irregular feature called Fake It 'Til You Make It. FITYMI is a showcase of obscure and sometimes quirky cover versions of popular songs. It all starts here with a cover of Beyonce's "Single Ladies" from Pompaloose. Check the vid below.

For more brilliance from these monkeys click here. Thanks to @50Champ for the tip.

Quite Possibly The Worst Movie Ever

2009-10-02T21:11:00.000-07:00

A small town setting and a folksy guitar soundtrack can't save you from a cliche plot and predictable dialog.

Why is Sunshine Cleaning quite possibly the worst movie ever? It's B-Grade Hollywood junk masquerading as a hip indie drama. I wish I had three hands, so I could give it three thumbs down.

Rules of Blogging

2009-10-02T01:00:00.001-07:00

Blogging Rule No. 3 - Never apologize for a lack of updates.

Please consider this our violation of Blogging Rule No. 3.

Thank You.

PS Listen to your favorite song. You'll be glad you did. (And so will we.)

Quote To Remember

2009-09-24T14:43:00.000-07:00

"Radio" was a thing people used to hear new music before the internet. - Stereogum

How To Sell Out:

2009-09-23T15:43:00.000-07:00

(video below)

Nice one, Pearl Jam. Way to show your true colors, red and white, in the shape of a bullseye. You have now lost all credibility and we will never believe another word that you say, ever.

Obey X Classic =

2009-09-17T15:39:00.001-07:00

Sigur Rós-ish

2009-09-14T23:16:00.000-07:00

Today saw the release of a new track from techno-ite, Tiësto, titled "Kaleidoscope." Now, normally this would never be cause for celebration here in Airbag Land but this particular piece of work features none other than Mr. Sigur Rós himself, Jonsí.

For ~~those~~ all of you who are still scratching your head trying to figure out how to say Tiësto, never mind figure out his (supposed) significance, Tiësto is a Dutch DJ best known for his dancefloor rhythms (the kind of rhythms that inspire... well... umm... we're not sure who or what they inspire, but they definitely don't inspire us).

Fortunately, Jonsí has come to the rescue of at least one song. "Kaleidoscope," the lead single from Tiësto's forthcoming album features Jonsí on Vox over white atmospheric beats reminiscent of Jonsí's other work. Be warned though, this is Tiësto featuring Jonsí, and not vice versa, which means that braun ultimately trumps brains on this one as things escalate into a full fledged techno-fest (the kind that makes us want to finish our drink and go home). But don't let us decide for you, see for yourself. "Kaleidoscope" is available for consumption on iTunes or you can take a listen over at Pitchfork.

In case you've been living under a rock...

2009-09-14T23:09:00.000-07:00

...here's Kanye making an ass of himself per usual.

Yeezy, "How could you be so Heartless?"

Air Mail

2009-09-06T21:52:00.000-07:00

Great video set to Grizzly Bear's "Two Weeks." Even greater when you consider it was put together by a fan. Thanks to Olga (and Alex) for the tip. Enjoy!

DWNLD TH!S:

2009-09-06T21:23:00.000-07:00

Notorious Remix Heavyweight, Phaseone, has not only blessed the music world with a new album, but with a FREE new album. ~~Deep~~ Dope electronic grooves that'll make you bob your head and blog about it. Grab Thanks But No Thanks from our friends over at RCRD LBL. Check out more work from P1 at Mad Decent. (FYI, If you dig Animal Collective, then you'll really want to check out that last link.)

Another Crooked Mile

2009-09-06T21:06:00.000-07:00

Here's another sneak peak of what's to come from Them Crooked Vultures. (video below)

And just in case you missed it, here's the scoop on these dirty birds.

Caliphonic

2009-09-06T20:42:00.000-07:00

We at Airbag Radio had the opportunity to catch Califone opening for Iron & Wine a couple of years ago at Oakland's Paramount Theatre. We must say that despite our unfamiliarity with these indie-vets at the time, the band left a real impression on our collective ears. Stretched-out acoustic rhythms spilt over walls of sonic distortion, killer! The band has a new album forthcoming, titled All My Friends Are Funeral Singers, due out October 6th. In the meantime, please enjoy the lead single, "Funeral Singers," compliments of Stereogum.

Super! Group!

2009-08-30T23:40:00.000-07:00

(Video Below)

For those keeping score, the video above features the new supergroup Them Crooked Vultures. What's so special about these guys? Well, this may just be the best supergroup since Cream got together back in '66. How so? Here's the lineup: Dave Grohl on drums (Yes, the same Dave Grohl from Nirvana and Foo Fighters), Josh Homme on Guitar (Yes, the same Josh Homme from Queens Of The Stone Age and Eagles of Death Metal), John Paul Jones on bass (Yes, the same John Paul Jones from Led Zeppelin! That's right Led Zeppelin!). Wow! We're on serious overload here at Airbag HQ just trying to fathom these three giants in the same room, never mind playing together. More to come, we're sure. Stay posted.

Radiohead-Land

2009-08-26T20:59:00.000-07:00

There's been some big news in Radiohead-Land the past couple of weeks. (Yes, Radiohead-Land is a real place and it's located smack dab between Brilliant-Town and Awesome-Ville.)

First, and foremost the world has been blessed with not one but two new singles from the band. The first of these is titled "Harry Patch (In Memory of)" and finds Thom Yorke & Co. paying tribute to the UK's last remaining WWI veteran, Harry Patch who recently passed away at the age of 111. The track features soaring vocals from Yorke accompanied by equally soaring strings arranged by Johnny Greenwood and recorded live in an abbey and is sure to throw those even mildly familiar with the band's catalogue for a loop. Read more about the single at deadairspace. Get it at waste.

Following the release of "Harry Patch," both Thom Yorke and Jonny Greenwood stated in separate interviews that the band would likely not be recording another full-length album in the near-future but rather would be releasing songs in the EP format. At the same time, a new track popped up online titled "These Are My Twisted Words" that was clearly a new song from Radiohead. Text included in the MP3 file quickly sparked rumors that this song may be part of a forthcoming EP titled Wall of Ice. Thus far, it looks like those rumors were false, but the band has officially released "These Are My Twisted Words" for free via their website along with some beautiful new artwork from long time collaborator, Stanley Donwood. Grab it here. You won't be disappointed.

Part III of IV

2009-08-23T00:47:00.000-07:00

Airbag Radio's newest release is here and we've dubbed it Endless Summer. Better late than never, or better never than late? You Decide. Hit us up for your copy.

One.

2009-08-22T23:30:00.000-07:00

Two.

2009-08-22T21:30:00.000-07:00

Three.

2009-08-22T19:30:00.001-07:00

So You Think You Can Dance?

2009-08-13T00:43:00.001-07:00

Dig the enthusiasm below! (via Lollapalooza)

Which dancer had the better moves? Let us know what you think.

Wish We Were There...

2009-08-09T15:58:00.001-07:00

As previously noted here at Airbag Radio, the Beastie Boys have had to cancel their summer festival appearances due to MCA's bout with cancer. In their place, Jay-Z stepped in to headline the All Points West Festival out in Jersey. Hova kicked things off right with a tribute to his fellow Brooklyn MC's. The results are stunning! Check the video below.

PS MCA has recovered well from his first surgery and is currently undergoing further treatment. We'll keep you posted here. Thoughts & Prayers...

Built To Spill...

2009-08-03T22:57:00.000-07:00

(video below)

Via FailBlog

Add This To Your Wishlist...

2009-07-30T12:02:00.000-07:00

More info here. Buy us a gift here.

Art. Work.

2009-07-24T13:36:00.000-07:00

Thought we'd share some killer album artwork with you from Yo La Tengo's forthcoming album, Popular Songs.

Preorder at Insound.

This is Not A Joke

2009-07-24T13:28:00.000-07:00

Coming to Sacramento, October 9th & 10th. Proof here. No, Airbag Radio will not be in attendance.

DWNLD TH!S:

2009-07-21T16:14:00.000-07:00

In honor of the 10th Anniversary of ágætis byrjun, sigur rós are offering up a free download of an exclusive live performance of "Hafsól." Get it below.

Enjoy!

It was written...

2009-07-21T16:10:00.000-07:00

"we do not intend to become superstars or millionaires. we are simply gonna change music forever, and the way people think about music."

- sigur ros, circa 1999

PSA

2009-07-21T15:16:00.000-07:00

Beastie Boy Numero Uno, MCA, aka Adam Yauch, will be taking time off to be treated for cancer of his salivary gland. Good news: It's treatable. Double Good News: It won't affect his voice. Here's the official announcement via video...

Thoughts and prayers go out.

LSTN UP:

2009-07-21T12:14:00.000-07:00

Radiohead's Thom Yorke has a new solo track floating around on the internets titled "All For The Best." This one's a cover recorded for the Mark Mulcahy tribute album, Ciao My Shining Star. Stellar beat, stunning vocals. Take a listen here. Album's out September 29th. Put it on your iCal.

MC Hammer, Back!

2009-07-20T23:56:00.000-07:00

San Francisco's favorite free music fest, Hardly Strictly Bluegrass returns this year with the likes of Billy Bragg, Nick Lowe, Gillian Welch, Elvis Perkins, Okkervil River and many more, oh yeah, and MC Hammer! Guess they recruited Hammer to put the "Hardly" in "Hardly Strictly." It all goes down October 2-4. More info (and proof) at www.strictlybluegrass.com.

Check it!

2009-07-20T23:30:00.000-07:00

Wilco and Feist got together last week to perform the duet "You & I" on The Late Show. For those who missed it, we've got the video below. If you like what you hear, be sure to check out Wilco's newest album, the appropriately titled, Wilco (The Album).

Calling All Ye Pirates!

2009-07-16T22:31:00.000-07:00

Avast!!! There be a festival of music especially for ya swashbucklers in place called Treasure Island. So set sail for the San Francisco Bay with plans to arrive mid October, leaving yourself plenty of time for pillaging booty along the way. Bring your pegged leg and a bottle of rum and be prepared to enjoy the likes of Grizzly Bear, Beirut, The Walkmen, MGMT, Girl Talk, Passion Pit, The Decemberists, Spiral Stairs, and many more. Steer yourself thisaway for more information. Arrrgg!!!

The Future of Turntables?

2009-07-16T22:20:00.000-07:00

Still just a concept, but we've got our fingers crossed. More here.

Airbag Radio presents

2009-07-11T12:17:00.000-07:00

...cobwebs.

songs for sunday morning,gathered together to fill the emptiness of a lonely room and the weariness of a traveled soul

Here it is! The long-awaited, highly anticipated flip-side to our critically acclaimed Economic Stimulus Package, ...cobwebs. If ESP was the party mix, consider this the music for the morning after. Also consider this our thanks for two years of support of Airbag Radio. If you'd like to get your ears around this new release hit up james@airbagradio.com. And be sure to let us know what you think. Enjoy!

Fresh Air

2009-07-06T16:37:00.000-07:00

French electro-pop duo, Air, have a new album forthcoming titled Love 2. Check out the new track "Do The Joy" below. If you like what you hear, be sure to check out the classic classic classic album, Moon Safari.

(PS Hold your mouse over the above black space to play track.)

Yeah, We Were There...

2009-07-06T11:31:00.000-07:00

Stand Still

2009-07-01T13:34:00.001-07:00

Great video below from Harlem Shakes...

What Can Be Said?

2009-06-26T11:01:00.000-07:00

Michael Jackson, gone. Simply put, there will never be another. Here's to his legacy...

300th Post

ANTHR RCRD SWP?

2009-06-23T16:00:00.000-07:00

Dang! It must be Record Swap season, 'cuz here's another opportunity to get out of the house and get your hands on some hot wax. This weekend, Capital Public Radio will be hosting their annual used record and CD sale out at the Howe 'Bout Arden shopping center. This is a great opportunity to pick up that copy of Barbara Streisand's greatest hits that you've been looking for. It's going down on Saturday & Sunday from 10AM to 5PM. More here.

By the way, I'm totally kicking myself right now for not having thought of that awesome shopping center name first, "Howe 'Bout Arden." Genius! Get it "How About Arden?" Wow, I need to talk to the marketing whiz that came up with that one.

Hurry!

2009-06-18T13:34:00.000-07:00

Hey all you Airbag Readers out in New York! Insound.com is hosting its first ever warehouse sale today from 5-8PM. Get out to Brooklyn to score some great deals. Hurry! More info here.

A Wise Man Once Said...

2009-06-17T11:19:00.000-07:00

Ever Wonder How...

2009-06-17T08:10:00.001-07:00

...Giants Are Made?

Shepard Fairey from Arkitip on Vimeo.

LSTN UP:

2009-06-16T14:54:00.000-07:00

LaLaLaLaLa...LaLa..LaLa

2009-06-16T14:50:00.000-07:00

Last time I checked, my wallet was still empty. Guess our Economic Stimulus Package didn't quite put an end to the recession. For those of you who find yourself in the same situation, we thought we'd kick down this worthwhile tip. Head over to LaLa to listen to any of there millions of tracks totally free. There is a catch, you can only listen to any song once free of charge. But, hey, it's a great way to take a listen to that Dirty Projectors album before you shell out some cold hard cash for it.