Focus-Moving Waves (1971)

^See that? That is the singer of Focus, this crazy progressive Dutch rock band. After being introduced via a live performance of their most (or only? lets say somewhat) famous single "Hocus Pocus," I had a moment that I think we are all familiar with. That moment when you realize, with excitement, the exploration of a new band's musical catalogue that will soon ensue.

Maybe you'll have a similar reaction. Let's see. I've pasted the video below, it is both delirious and brilliant. If you like vintage progressive rock, ie ELP, King Crimson, Pink Floyd, you're most likely to enjoy. The band is centered around a classically trained organist, Thijs van Leer (come on, SO Dutch), the vocalist with a penchant for hilarious facial expressions as pictured above. The rest of their sound is formed using rock instruments, and all musicians are phenomenal. This live version of "Hocus Pocus" is so energetic, it is infectious.

If you like what you hear, click here to download the full album. Keep in mind, this is my first sample of their library, so it is very possible that this is not the best of their material. Either way, it is a diverse record. I'd recommend it, if not for anything else, at least the 20-min epic "Eruption."

Thanks for sharing this one with me Tahl.

Jonathan Wilson-Gentle Spirit (2011)

First things first, I really enjoy the album art, an always under-appreciated aspect of releasing a record.

Second, this has become one of my favorite albums of 2011. Jonathan Wilson, as both a musician and producer, is one of the major forces at play in reviving Los Angeles's Laurel Canyon music scene. Most notably, he produced both of Dawes's albums, and hosts jam sessions at his compound (not a home...a compound). This record offers a pleasant blend of folk, psychedelic, and mellow classic rock (think CSNY, etc). There isn't a weak song on this beautiful record, and as with anything I post, I highly recommend checking it out.

My personal favorites include the title track, as well as "Desert Raven," and the ten-minute closer "Valley of the Silver Moon."

DOWNLOAD HERE

Ganstagrass-Gangstagrass

Ok, maybe this combination of gangster rap and bluegrass is just novel. But I don't care, its fucking cool, and I dig it.

If you are a rational individual, which I like to believe most of my readers are, you are probably wondering how this could possibly work. I get it. I wondered the same thing.

It may not be the best record you will ever listen to, but it is certainly an interesting fusion of genres that I highly recommend giving a spin.

Download here

The Joy Formidable-A Balloon Called Moaning (2008)

Like the Stone Foxes, The Joy Formidable was another late pick up for me before Outside Lands. Aside from having a pretty awesome name, the 3 piece from Wales carries a pretty heavy while catchy alternative rock sound. I dig it, and they put on a great live show. If you generally like my taste in music, you'll probably like it to. That's why you read this right?

This is all I have by them, but I'm definitely interested in acquiring some more. Not really a bad track on the album.

Here

Na dzravi (cheers) from Prague.

Stone Foxes-Bears and Bulls (2010)

Could have sworn that I posted this in early august when I discovered it during my background research for Outside Lands Music Festival. They aren't that big (hopefully yet) but they are fucking tight. Easily one of my highlights of the festival. They have a nice modern yet classic bluesy rock sound that I think could take them far. A good way to frame their sound is to picture a bluesier Wolfmother. Patience is probably my favorite song.

Dig it.

Macklemore and Ryan Lewis (2010)

Macklemore is a Seattle based hip hop artist, Ryan Lewis is his MC. Their sound solidly embodies the northwest style, a la Blue Scholars, that many of you will/do enjoy. This is their EP, and in the later half of the disc it offers great remixes of all the songs which are sweet enough to stand on their own. Strong lyrical themes of recovering from substance abuse and enjoying life can be found. This is definitely some of the best most honest hip-hop I have heard recently, and I think you should check it out...or I wouldn't be posting. Plus they are playing Outside Lands in San Francisco next weekend, so if you are going you should come check their set out with me.

Sorry for the lapse in the blog, more to come soon, I've been listening to some good shit that I'm looking forward to share. Off to Norcal...

DOWNLOAD HERE

The Sea And Cake-Everybody (2007)

Not entirely sure when I picked up this album, but I rediscovered it during this past quarters final's push. Solid album with some catchy hooks and a mellow jazzy style. The singer's voice actually reminds me a lot of The Slip. I like it.

Nothing to get super pumped up about, so don't go try to get swoll to this stuff, BUT if you are looking for a some easy listening, this one is for you.

Mediafire is the best