NYC

Album of the Month: Ki Oni “Tiny Elephants”

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Ki Oni (roughly translates to Thurs. Demon) the northern VA based electronic artist got his name while sifting through a Toho Studio Monster site, and when not remixing 90’s cartoon theme songs and Grimes tracks, he is busy helping run Joy Pop Records and creating dope electronic atmospheres as heard on Tiny Elephants.

The chillwave beats are clean, tight, and invigorating and in the same realm as Funki Porcini and Four Tet. Each track is another highly creative soundscape that inspires. "Cruise" belongs on some runway at Fashion Week London. "Clouds" sombre tones make me envision some rainforest tribal musician taking on indie elements. And hip-hop inspired beats pop in occasionally throughout the LP, including the well layered "Trees."

Philadelphia

Photo Recap: Work Drugs, Night Panther & Cruiser at KFN

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There was a most excellent sold-out locals only show this past Saturday at Kung Fu Necktie with Work Drugs, Night Panther and Cruiser. All three acts performed fantastic sets – complete with a “Happy Birthday” serenade from the nocturnal felines and an “Ernest goes to…” album giveaway. Cruiser encouraged the rowdiness to commence by having the crowd shout out submissions for a chance to get a copy of their debut self-titled EP. Drum roll please – and the winner was: “Ernest goes down on your mom.” Way to always keep it classy Philly! You can check out our photos from the fun night HERE.

San Francisco

Benefit Show to Save SF Bookstore Adobe Books – Featuring The Dodos & More TONIGHT

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San Francisco’s iconic lit paradise Adobe Books is facing a massive rent hike which is threatening its survival. We don’t want to let that happen! As part of a series of events, several Bay Area bands are taking to the stage to help raise funds and awareness for a substantial revamp to the store. Word has it, that the new Adobe will feature a pop-up shop with Haight-Ashbury vinyl luminary, Groove Merchant Records.

The Music for Adobe Fundraiser takes place on Monday, May 11th at Public Works in San Francisco. Adobe’s musical beneficiaries include The Dodos, Adam Stevens of Two Gallants, The Tambo Rays and Vetiver’s Andy Cabic (DJ set). Attend the show and hear some of SF’s finest, while helping expand and sustain one of the city’s cultural mainstays. It’s any easy win-win.

You can also check out the Save Adobe Books Indiegogo campaign for more information about Adobe’s future and how to contribute. –Andy Lambert

Philadelphia

New Dangerous Ponies EP Available for Streaming!

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Oh man – we’ve been waiting for this one. Check out Dangerous Ponies‘ awesome new EP tenderheart below! They’re currently on an extensive tour headed to SXSW like half the bands in the country this week. You can catch them next in Philly when they stop home for an evening on Friday, March 29 at MilkBoy Philly, and view the rest of their schedule HERE. Enjoy! 

L.A.

Video: holychild, “Best Friends”

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Electro-pop duo, holychild, have released the video for their feel-good summertime jam “Best Friends.” Filled with spastic dancing, confetti, and youthful shenanigans, the video is set in the bizarre wasteland of Bombay Beach, focusing heavily on the frontwoman of the group, Elizabeth Nistico. In the vein of Sleigh Bells, the tune has a kids in the schoolyard, sun-drenched pop tilt, but with an ever-growing undercurrent of chaos that drives it forward. The ominous moaning and jarring sound design between chorus and verse leave you feeling unsettled, as though something sinister is afoot. The juxtaposition makes for a dynamic, yet still playfully fun song. Peep the video below, and catch them at the Hotel Cafe on March 21. – Jacqueline Caruso

Philadelphia

New Video: “Soviet Bicycle” (Brighton Sound Sessions) – Norwegian Arms

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After headlining the sold out Houndstooth Entertainment launch party this past Friday at PhilaMOCA, Norwegian Arms are currently touring their way down to SXSW. Below is another video from their Brighton Sound Sessions of the trio performing "Soviet Bicycle." There is also an outtake of the band playing Frank Ocean’s "Thinking About You" at the end of the footage, which was produced by Seven Knots Productions.

Portland

Two Shows for the Price of One 3.15

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The Deli Portland will be back at the Mt. Tabor Theater this Friday to host a night of outstanding local music. This month the kinetic haze of The Hugs will be rocking the concert hall with A Happy Death’s riotous garage rock and Father Figure’s anthemic indie rock ballads. In the lounge, Mars Water will be delivering an otherworldy performance alongside Mufassa’s psychedelic tones and Bath Party’s dynamic spin on the surf rock genre. The show starts at 9pm sharp, be there to experience some of the most delectable music Portland has to offer for the low price of five dollars.  

Philadelphia

The 2nd Annual Frankford Ave. Freeze-Out at JB’s March 10

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2012 was a banner year for Little Baby’s Ice Cream as they went from the little tricycle (“that could”) trekking around and serving their creamy goods at events throughout Philly in spring and summer to opening up their official World Headquarters next to Pizza Brain. You also have to give it up to the creative crew for shocking the world with their disturbing viral videos. To raise funds towards opening their headquarters last year as well as some other projects, Little Baby’s hosted the 1st ever Frankford Ave. Freeze-Out, which saw members of its team stepping up and performing as Bruce Springsteen cover band Bruce Ice Cream and the Freeze Street Band. Tonight they make it an annual tradition at Johnny Brenda’s with a repeat performance of The Boss’ finest tunes. There will also be a set by Debbie Kerri & The Kung Fu Girls performing the much-beloved music of Blondie. And the evening will feature likely cameos from some of the ice cream maestros’ musician friends, the magic of David Darwin, DJ sets by Broadzilla, tasty slices from Pizza Brain, and more as well. Johnny Brenda’s, 1201 N. Frankford St., 9pm, $12, 21+ – Bill McThrill

San Francisco

NYC Art Rock Band Changing Modes

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Up and coming New York City based art rock, pop darlings, Changing Modes are performing tonight (03.09) at The 3rd Annual Armory Night Performance at the Williamsburg Art & Historical Center. The event goes from 8-11 pm. If you can’t make it, you’ll have another chance to see them live on May 5th at the National Underground..