Variability – the trio of Busses engages the sonic experimentation with an ear pointed toward the openness it provides, performing songs that stretch the end lines while the core instrumentation remains locked-in pushing fluidly forward. Their latest single “Overload” takes that core groove coupling it with Dave Brett’s gentle, floating vocal arrangement, creating a subtle, drifting out-to-sea effect. However, the group has been known to harbor a heavier harder aesthetic. Tonight, at Johnny Brenda’s, they bridge the gap between harmonious local folk group Rosu Lup, who take that zoomed in intimacy and project it outward, exuding a natural warmth. Having gone through a pair of lineup changes, Rosu Lup is currently working on a full-length LP, which may be available this coming fall. Their performance should offer a preview of that new material. The show is alo headlined by Richmond, Virginia garage-pop/psych rockers Avers, who released their debut album Empty Light earlier this spring. Johnny Brenda’s, 1201 N. Frankford Ave., 8pm, $12, 21+ – Michael Colavita
New Video: “Red Eyes” (Live – Letterman) – The War on Drugs
The War on Drugs repping the awesomeness of the Philly music scene in a big way last night on Late Show With David Letterman. Adam Granduciel and the gang with the help of Paul Schaffer performed a fantastic version of "Red Eyes," off the band’s latest critically-acclaimed LP Lost in the Dream. Enjoy!
Debut Lovers League EP Available for Streaming & Purchase
Reverend TJ McGlinchey and Dani Mari recently put out a charming, folk-pop self-titled EP under the name Lovers League. The album is a combination of each of the artists’ solo works performed as a duet. The band’s sound is rounded out by members Christopher Davis-Shannon and Dean Gorfti. You can stream and purchase the record below.
Krust Toons: “Your Girlfriend Rocks; You Don’t” by Teddy Hazard
Krust Toons: "Your Girlfriend Rocks; You Don’t" 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.
West Philly’s OK FEST Announces Full Lineup
The inaugural OK FEST, which will be held at Golden Tea House and Nacho House in West Philly, just announced its full lineup that includes rad local faves like Radiator Hospital, Cayetana, Amanda X, The Ambulars, Swearin’ and much more alongside buzzing out-of-towners such as Speedy Ortiz, Mannequin Pussy, and Pile. You can check out the rest of the acts above and more details about the kick-ass fest HERE. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to Decarcerate PA, a coalition of organizations and individuals seeking an end to mass incarceration and the harms it brings our communities. Niiiiice – see you there! (Poster by Michael Cantor)
Lucky 7 Independence Party w/Akhbar & Abram Taber at Sit & Spin Records July 7
After taking the weekend off, South Philly’s Sit & Spin Records will be hosting a Lucky 7 Independence Party this afternoon. They’ll be serving up refreshments and music. Performing at this early, all-ages showcase will be the ambient drone of Daniel Harris Levine’s Akhbar, who released his debut EP WALLS this past spring, and the textured psychedelic loops of West Philly’s Abram Taber. There will also be an offering of special deals on seven-inches throughout the store to make the celebration of sevens complete. Sit & Spin Records, 1346 S. 9th St., 5pm, Free, All Ages – Alexis V.
New Fhloston Paradigm Album Available for Streaming
Fhloston Paradigm, the music project that puts King Britt‘s love for sci-fi movies and their soundtracks on display, is currently streaming its new album, The Phoenix, over at Pitchfork Advance. The record features contributions from Pia Ercole, Rachel Claudio, Natasha Kmeto, and Marlo Reynolds. It officially comes out on July 7 via Hyperdub Records, and will be available on double vinyl, CD and digital download.
The Homophones & Hello Shark Opening for Attic Abasement at The Elemental Hazzard July 6
The brand new DIY music space, The Emerald Hazzard, debuts tonight with a show from Magic Death Sounds’ summer event series and Philadelphia Bike Rescue that’s headlined by Rochester, NY’s Attic Abasement. And it will be supported by a couple of local Deli favorites. It’s been a while since we’ve last seen Jason Ferraro and the rest of The Homophones dancing around on a stage, while playing their happily manic musings. But their long hiatus has been largely in part due to the band working on new material so we may be treated to new treats among classics like “Mala Strana” and “Polish Thuggz.” Ever since they transplanted from Vermont, Hello Shark have been really impressing us with their quirky lyrics and oddly beautiful songs that resonate from their albums HS and Break Arms. And they’re sure to be a welcomed addition to this intimate house show. The Emerald Hazzard, (Please contact one of the acts or venue for more info.), 8 PM, $5 All Ages – Bill McThrill
Madalean Gauze Opening for Shark Tape at JB’s July 5
Happy Birthday USA (& Mitch)! at PhilaMOCA July 5
Weekend Warrior, July 3 – 6
THIS IS US: American Diamond Recordings from Dog Days Films
New Radiator Hospital LP Available for Streaming & Download
We were very excited to learn that Radiator Hospital, a.k.a. Sam Cook-Parrott, has made his new fifteen-song LP Torch Song available for streaming as well as download, which you can do so below. Cook-Parrott’s current band lineup consists of Jon Rybicki on bass, Jeff Bolt (Swearin’) on drums, and Cynthia Schemmer providing guitar and vocals. Also making special guest appearances on the record are pals and former housemates Waxahatchee, a.k.a. Allison Crutchfiied, and the rest of Swearin’ which includes Katie Crutchfield, Kyle Gilbride, and Keith Spencer. Torch Song was recorded during the first week of May 2014 at Golden Tea House and Swoon City in West Philly with the help of Wherever Audio. The album will be available on vinyl via Salinas Records, and pre-orders start in August. (Cover art by Phoebe Harris)