Krust Toons: "Selling Records" by Teddy Hazard – please feel free to drop him a line at teddandthehazards@gmail.com if you dig or have any funny ideas. You can also check out more of his illustrations HERE.
Fhloston Paradigm LIVE at JB’s Dec. 15
New The Mellowells LP Available for Streaming & Purchase
After releasing an EP and a couple of very enjoyable singles, indie-rock quartet The Mellowells just dropped their first full-length album entitled Shindy. As the title hints, the LP is filled with uproarious tunes that celebrate the band’s knack for writing uber-catchy sing-alongs. They’ll be performing next in Philly on Friday, January 2, 2015 in The Balcony of The Troc for the Fireback Record showcase.
Title Fight Opening for Circa Survive at Union Transfer Dec. 14
Tonight, Title Fight caps off a weekend of sold out shows opening for Circa Survive at Union Transfer. Their third full-length LP and first via ANTI-, Hyperview, was produced once again by Will Yip, and is scheduled for release on February 3, 2015. Title Fight is consciously willing to expose themselves, revealing inner-turmoil that endears themselves to listeners in the process. While often exhibiting vocals torn directly from the chest, instrumentally their songs maintain a largely melodic yet volatile core. That balance of control slowly burns until its volatile edge pulls at ones emotions while cautiously preparing for the knockout blow. On this night, Title Fight will set the stage for progressive hardcore outfit Circa Survive, whose new record Descensus (also produced by Will Yip) combines intense heart-pounding polished instrumentation with Anthony Green’s smooth soaring vocals. Baltimore’s Pianos Become the Teeth, whose latest record Keep You was coincidentally produced by Yip as well, kicks off the show. Union Transfer, 1026 Spring Garden St., 8pm, $25 (Sold Out), All Ages – Michael Colavita
Circadian Rhythms Taking a Few Swings at Everybody Hits Dec. 13
Weekend Warrior, December 12 – 14
Mike Quinn Opening for Quiet Life at MilkBoy Philly Dec. 12
Mike Quinn’s lyrical approach could be considered quirky, since his observations often twist rather than taking a clear path. However, those “odd” decisions create memorable routes, which, coupled with his distinct delivery, has a way of embedding his words in your mind. Instrumentally, it’s familiar enough and reminiscent of a folksy Americana backdrop, with those endearingly inviting open-screen-door tones. However, taking a closer look, those traditional images are slightly warped and out of focus in a surprising revitalized configuration. The overcast folk of The Bailey Hounds fill the middle slot. The foursome continues to emerge with tightly constructed agonizingly endearing tunes that offer a glimpse of light amid the darkness. The night will be headlined by the fresh energy-infused Americana of Quiet Life. Milkboy Philly, 1100 Chestnut St., 8:30pm, $10, 21+ – Michael Colavita
Free Download: Daytrotter – Marian Hill
Daytrotter just posted a new session with Philly/NYC electro-soul/R&B duo Marian Hill. Branching out from Rock Island, it was recorded at Room 17 in Brooklyn, NY by Brian Thorn and Joe Rogers. You can listen and download the session for free HERE (w/membership). (Illustration by Johnnie Cluney)
Free Download: “Thinking About You (Rework Feat. Radji Mateen Sr.)” – Khari Mateen
The collaborative pairing of father and son, sax-playing Radji Mateen Sr. and multi-instrumentalist Khari Mateen, is a long-standing endeavor. Their latest, a reworking of “Thinking About You,” is a forward-thrusting, seductively funky song propelled by the percussion/sax interplay, and that sax opens up for a tasty run to boot. You can stream and download the track for free below.
New Track: “We Here” – Bahamadia
Legendary Philly emcee Bahamadia just dropped a new track, "We Here," to remind us that she still gots the goods. Look out for her long-awaited forthcoming solo LP! She’s currently making her rounds with the Someothaship Connection Tour.
New CRUISR Live Session EP Available for Streaming & Download
A few days ago, CRUISR, performed a live session on Boston radio station WTBU, resulting in a three-song live session EP. The release captures the group undeniable ability to lock into a loose playful groove and deliver joyful pop-rock. You can stream and download the session below. They’ll be performing next in Philly on January 15 at The Barbary.
Modern Baseball Headline at the TLA Dec. 11
With unapologetically honest lyrics, Modern Baseball knows how to speak to the insecurities, confusion and self-absorption of the twenty-somethings of this generation. High school friends Brendan Lukens and Jacob Ewald, who along with Ian Farmer and Sean Huber, found a new home in the Philly music scene while attending college, fearlessly admitting that they can only stand most of their friends for the weekend and how they fail to get the attention of a girl who prefers the company of some meathead (actually, according to them, they fail to get the attention of a lot of girls.) A friend funded their debut LP, Sports, which recently sold out again on its fourth printing. Their follow-up LP, You’re Gonna Miss It All, showed that the band still had the knack for those Front Bottoms-esque detail-oriented tracks. They bitch about bratty girls’ malfunctioning Instagrams, and look for a cure to the spins with pizza. And, the new album has its share of catchy hits, like “Your Graduation,” which has the kind of fast, guitar pop-punk chorus made for chanting and moshing. Welcome the boys home at the TLA tonight, and watch (or be a part of) their hardcore fan base geeking out! TLA, 334 South St., 7pm, $15, All Ages – Emily Dicicco