Philadelphia

Kurt Vile and the Violators Announce European Tour!

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After finishing up their mostly U.S. Spring Tour, Kurt Vile and the Violators are heading off to Europe for 3 weeks in May. They’ll do headlining shows and festivals that include Primavera Sound, Stag & Dagger and Liverpool Sound City festivals. Vile was also picked as Pitchfork’s Best New Music so you can take a listen to the track "Ghost Town" from his upcoming album Smoke Ring for My Halo here. The rest of the European dates are below. – The Deli Staff
 
May 8th – King Georg, Koln – Germany
May 9th – Feierwerk, Munich – Germany
May 10th – Chelsea Club, Vienna – Austria
May 11th – Festsaal Kreuzberg, Berlin – Germany
May 12th – Vega, Copenhagen – Denmark
May 13th – Voxhall, Aarhus – Denmark
May 15th – Tivoli, Utrecht – Netherlands
May 16th – Bitterzoet, Amsterdam – Netherlands
May 17th – Les Nuits de Botanique, Brussel – Belgium
May 18th – Charlatan, Gent – Belgium
May 19th – Corsica Studios, London – UK
May 20th – Sound City @ Kazimier, Liverpool – UK
May 21st – Stag & Dagger Festival @ Captain’s Rest, Glasgow – UK
May 23rd – La Maroquinerie, Paris – France
May 25th – Place Saint Michel, Bordeaux – France
May 26th – Top of the Folk @ L’antipode, Rennes – France
May 28th – Primavera Sound Festival, Barcelona – Spain
May 29th – Ghetto – Istanbul, Turkey
 
June 30th – July 3rd – Roskilde Festival – Denmark
September 2nd – 4th – End Of The Road Festival, Dorset – UK
 
Philadelphia

Folkadelphia Concert Series Returns at JB’s Feb. 20

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When I interviewed Fred Knittel about his Folkadelphia Concert Series/senior project, his voice was loaded with excitement for Philadelphia’s modern folk scene (read The Deli’s interview here). After all, it is a bustling community that the 22-year-old Drexel undergrad and host of Y-Rock’s Folkadelphia radio show is deeply rooted in. So you can say that’s the overall purpose of his February series at Johnny Brenda’s, which will feature live performances and interviews with the bands: to draw others into that sonic landscape he’s so fond of and to bridge that gap between old school folk traditions and its modern twists. And so far, it’s seen success, with rave reviews coming in for Folkadelphia’s February 6 inaugural show with Hezekiah Jones and The Spinning Leaves. I don’t have any doubt he can keep that momentum going this afternoon when its second installment comes underway with Northern PA’s whispering indie-folk luminaries Lewis & Clarke take the stage. So go enjoy the magic before it’s too late. I know I will. Johnny Brenda’s, 1201 Frankford Ave., 1pm, $7, All Ages – Annamarya Scaccia
 
Philadelphia

The Deli’s Philly Best Emerging Artists Poll – Top Performers: Golden Ages

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If there’s anyone in Philly who’s had an overwhelmingly busy 2010, it’s Golden Ages. Since the release of debut full-length Tradition, bedroom soundscaper Francis Tseng has pulled a live band together, dropped another EP, had a surprisingly cinematic video made for “Everything Will Be Alright”, remixed everyone from Univox to Surfer Blood to Toto, and all while keeping up his cognitive science studies at Penn. All this activity isn’t going unrecognized with acknowledgements from Pitchfork, The Fader, XLR8R, and many more music media outlets. Perhaps the quick payoff shouldn’t be surprising. Golden Ages have zeroed in on a sound that simply doesn’t go unnoticed these days, and they do it well. The band conjures up layer upon layer of heady synth squall and shimmering arpeggios, with a sturdy, pulsing bass as its spine. Vocals are present, but they’re buried, simply filling in any textural gaps that aren’t dominated by the roaring walls of sound that Tseng pieces together. If this sounds like chillwave, you wouldn’t be completely wrong. But these songs don’t have quite the same level of dance-ability that even the most chill of chillwave tunes dish out, or even the half-ironic 80s stylings. This stuff is more apt for bedroom rumination and stoned daydreams. Let’s hope 2011 is even busier for Tseng and the Golden Ages crew. It’s already starting off well with a recent opening slot for the sold out Sun Airway show at The Ox and invitations to the big dance at SXSW. – Joe Poteracki
 

Philadelphia

Busses Headline at JB’s Feb. 19

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Philadelphia’s Busses are rolling into Johnny Brenda’s tonight. Don’t expect slow numbers though, because if they get below 50 BPM the whole place is going to blow! The multi-faceted Fishtown trio, led by Guitarist/Vocalist Dave Brett, explores many corners of the rock spectrum with a psychedelic hue that allows their music to seamlessly meld together without becoming monotonous. Brett’s Built To Spill meets Mars Volta vocals are the perfect compliment to the driving guitar and drum combo that result in blistering and meditative tunes. Last year, Busses released a very solid record that combined their technical prowess with musician/producer extraordinaire Jeff Zeigler’s engineering panache resulting in killer tracks like “House Fire” and “Foundation Myth”. Along for the ride are indie-poppers Royal Shoal, a Philly band comprised of former members of The Ropers (Slumberland, Tean Beat), Saturday People, Public Record, and Beard (a Dr. Dog precursor.) Rounding out the bill is the jazzy, Tom Waits on cocaine stylings of Upholstery, who will be celebrating the release of their new album. Johnny Brenda’s, 1201 N. Frankford Ave., 9pm, $10, 21+ – Adam G.
 

Philadelphia

Weekend Warrior, February 18 – 20

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Sorry, our server took a long lunch break earlier. I don’t blame it. It’s beautiful out. This will be short and sweet because we’ve been ready to enjoy this weekend and the weather for a long time now. (Damn server!) You’ve probably noticed this flier (above) on our website all week. Well, you should really show up for our show this Saturday at The Ox w/Grimace Federation, Grandchildren, Power Animal, Ryat, and Circadian Rhythms. It’s going to be badasss! We’ll be there. You should definitely join us. Now go out and do something fun before the weather gets shitty again. Cheers! The Ox, (you should know by now or ask a friend), 8pm, $5, All Ages

 
Other things to get you out and about…
 
The Ox (you should know by now or ask a friend) FRI Aunt Dracula
 
Johnny Brenda’s (1201 N. Frankford Ave.) FRI Dr. Ketchup, SAT Busses, Royal Shoals, Upholstery, SUN Folkadelphia w/Lewis & Clarke
 
Kung Fu Necktie (1250 N. Front St.) FRI The New Connection and Cheers Elephant SAT The Future Unwritten
 
The Fire (412 W. Girard Ave.) FRI I Yahn I Arkestra and Theotis Joe, SAT Mongrel Mix and Kickin Bear, SUN Curious Buddies
 
M Room (15 W. Girard Ave.) FRI Megajam Booze Band, SAT Panic Years and Atomic Square
 
Tritone (1508 South St.) FRI Man Is Doomed, SAT Buddhafest 43 w/Victoria Spaeth
 
Millcreek Tavern (4200 Chester Ave.) FRI Cloud Entertainment Launch Party w/The Josh and Pete Band, Lion Versus, The Best Western
 
Tin Angel (20 S. 2nd St.) FRI The Absolute Zeros and Funkharp
 
JR’s Bar (2327 S. Croskey St.) FRI Scareho
 
World Café Live (3025 Walnut St.) SUN Animus
 
The Blockley (3801 Chestnut St.) FRI The Black Rose Foundation Presents: Let’s Move Philadelphia – A Health Benefit for Black Girls w/Black Thought and Rich Medina
 
Fergie’s (1214 Sansom St.) FRI The Down Home
 
Triumph Brewery (117 Chestnut St.) FRI LP Stiles
 
The El Bar (1356 N. Front St.) SAT St. James & The Apostles, The Improbables, Full Blown Cherry
 
First Unitarian Church (2125 Chestnut St.) FRI Free Energy and Sweatheart
 
The Maas Building (1325 N. Randolph St.) FRI & SAT The Mural And The Mint and the Nichole Canuso Dance Company Perform “As The Eyes Of The Seahorse”
 
Philadelphia

Let’s Move Philadelphia Benefit w/Black Thought at The Blockley Feb. 18

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If you live in Philly and haven’t heard of the name Black Thought yet, then you must be living under a rock. The politically charged emcee and co-founder of the legendary hip hop group The Roots has rocked the foundation of the music industry with his complex lyrical content and intense live performances. Tonight you not only have the chance to see him roll solo inside an intimate setting at The Blockley, you also have a chance to contribute to a good cause in Let’s Move Philadelphia for Children. Branched off from Michelle Obama’s Lets Move initiative, this party with a purpose strives to support programs that promote healthy choices for black females by providing funding and resources to local Philadelphia youth organizations. So you can feel a little better about yourself as you listen to the funked out freestyle mastery. And hopefully members of the Money Making Jam Boys will be down for a good cause and a good time that will be amped up by one of the most recognized club DJs, Rich Medina. For close to 20 years, he has been taking people on a sonic journey using afrobeat, house, funk, and more. So tonight he is sure to be in his element to get yo asses on the floor! The Blockley, 3801 Chestnut St., 10pm, $20 adv/$25 door, 21+ – Bill McThrill
 
Philadelphia

Free Energy Sending Out Good Vibes at FUC Feb. 18

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Pitchfork darlings Free Energy refab American rock ‘n roll with a twist on the old familiar, falling somewhere between the earnest riffs of Springfield’s “Jessie’s Girl” and Spoon’s enthusiastic beats (long before they plateaued at mediocre with Ga Ga Ga Ga Ga). “Dark Trance”, off their debut Stuck on Nothing, possesses an inherent charm comprised of wailing riffs and straightforward poetics. “Something in Common” is the perfect mix of upbeat and heartfelt (reminiscent of what Sugar Ray’s “Every Morning” might have sounded like if they knew what indie rock was). “Power pop” for the masses, Free Energy sets to kick start your weekend with a bang pop premised by quirky jams compliments of Sweatheart. First Unitarian Church, 2125 Chestnut St., 8 pm, $10, All Ages – Dianca Potts
 
Philadelphia

The Mural and The Mint Collaborate w/Nichole Canuso Dance Co. at The Maas Building Feb. 18 & 19

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The Mural and The Mint collaborate with Nichole Canuso Dance Co. for live performances this Friday and Saturday at The Maas Building. Inspired by the chamber pop outfit’s new album, As the Eyes of the Seahorse, you can download it for free here. There will also be a vinyl version of the album available at this weekend’s record-release shows. Below is a quirky, groovetastic preview trailer for your enjoyment. The Maas Building, 1325 N. Randolph St., 7:30pm & 9:30pm, $12 – $15, All Ages – Alexis V.  
 

Philadelphia

Cloud Entertainment Launch Party at Millcreek Feb. 18

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Cloud Entertainment will be having a launch party this evening at Millcreek Tavern for their official website: http://www.cloudentertainmentphilly.com. If you’re not familiar with Cloud Entertainment, they’ve been booking shows and helping to spread the word about local talent for over four years now. They book primarily at Millcreek Tavern and Pterodactyl Art Gallery and also other venues independently including World Cafe Live, Kung Fu Necktie, The Fire and other non-conventional spaces. Tonight local acts Lion Versus, The Best Westerns, The Josh and Pete Band, and Baltimore’s A Cat Called Cricket will be helping them celebrate this occasion. You’ll also find head guy Josh Craft pulling double duty and performing around town with his band Conversations with Enemies or as the re-incarnation of The Bee Team. There will be drink specials from 9 – 11pm so liquor up and buy a round for the Cloud Entertainment crew while you are at it. Cheers! Millcreek Tavern, 4200 Chester Ave., 9pm, $8, 21+ – H.M. Kauffman
 
Philadelphia

The Deli’s Philly Best Emerging Artists Poll – Top Performers: Levee Drivers

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When I first saw Levee Drivers two years ago at Yards Brewery, I was instantly blown away by the sheer boldness of the Bucks County outfit’s performance. The second time I saw them–at the 2009 Beta Hi-Fi competition where I was one of the judges for–I was equally mesmerized. And yes, they did win and deservedly so. These reactive moments, though, didn’t happen because what I heard was surprisingly singular. It was because there was this undeniable passionate force behind every guitar lick and salty intone. That’s probably why The Deli has had them on our radar for a long time now. Levee Drivers performed at our first-ever locals showcase, part of The Tunes Wit Whiz series, at Johnny Brenda’s. They also snagged the top spot last year in our Fans/Readers poll and got to share the stage with The Deli’s Best Emerging Artists 2009 overall poll winners Reading Rainbow and runner-ups Grandchildren. But what do you expect from a band that calls on dirty pick-ups ("Poor Boy’s Shoes") and driving swagger ("Tennessee Girl")? Just charismatic ruggedness, that’s all. On the real, their signature blend of vintage rockabilly, dust bowl country, working class rock, and crossroad blues melts to this sort of beaten Steel Country rock ‘n’ roll, and you can’t ignore it. I dare you to try. – Annamarya Scaccia
 

Philadelphia

Where Is My Mind?: Hezekiah Jones

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It’s strange to think that Hezekiah Jones a.k.a. Raphael Cutrufello was on the first bill that I ever booked for an artist some years ago (which also included Brooklyn’s O’Death and D.C.’s Exit Clov – a pretty sweet random bill at The Fire). I remember really digging his set, especially the song “Cupcakes for the Army”, and trading a little banter back and forth with Cutrufello from the audience. He later thanked me after his set for heckling because he admitted that things can get kind of boring on stage because the only people who come to see him are friends and family. Even though I was far from heckling him (he’d know it if I did), I knew right then and there what a genuine person he was/is. And you can obviously hear it in his tunes. It’s just great to see him headlining the big stage tonight at World Café Live. Though I’m sure the crowd will be filled with friends and family for his latest release Have You Seen Our New Fort?, I highly doubt they’ll still be the only people there to see him. It will also be a triple record release party with Up the Chain and Joe D’Amico. The New Fort album officially drops on March 29, but you can grab your advance vinyl copy at the show. We had a chance to throw a few questions at Cutrufello and Pepe Jones a.k.a. Phil D’Agostino before tonight’s party. Here is what they had to say.

Hezekiah Jones – "Mind Malaise" by Yer Bird Records

Philadelphia

RSVP to XPN’s “Free at Noon” w/Kurt Vile

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XPN’s “Free at Noon” concert series will be hosting our very own Kurt Vile at World Café Live this Friday, February 18. Besides the fact that free is always a good price, it should entice you that Vile is set to release his new full-length, Smoke Ring For My Halo, on March 8th via Matador, and you’ll most likely get a sneak peek at some of those tracks. Never afraid to indulge both the gnarly and mellow sides of his classic influences, he’s successfully made the switch from bedroom tinkerer to full-fledged rock troubadour. This show is just the beginning for the hometown crowd, of course. Expect Vile to stop by World Café Live again on March 23rd with Dinosaur Jr.’s J. Mascis. You can also hit up AKA Music on March 4th for a more intimate setting with him and the Violators. To RSVP for “Free at Noon”, go here. World Café Live, 3025 Walnut Street, 12pm, FREE, All Ages (Photo by Tim Griffin) – Joe Poteracki
 

Jesus Fever by Kurt Vile