Original Gamer - MC Lars and MC Frontalot

Band: MC Lars/MC Frontalot
Album: This Gigantic Robot Kills
Released: 2009
Home Town: Oakland, CA
Why is it on here?:  White dudes rapping about old school video games, Nerdcore at its finest.

My Old Ways - Dr. Dog

Artist: Dr. Dog
Album: We All Belong
Released: 2007
Home Town: Philly, PA
Why is it on here?:  These guys have a cool sound, sort of psychedelic rock meets the Beatles.  

Long Way Down - Haste the Day

Band: Haste the Day
Home Town: Carmel, IN
Why is it on here?:  They key to a good cover is to retain the original sound of the song while adding a little of your own sound- that's why this version of the Goo Goo Dolls' (who I hate by the way) classic is quite good.  Happy Memorial Day.  

Distopian Dream Girl - Built To Spill

Band: Built To Spill
Album: There's Nothing Wrong with Love
Released: September 13, 1994
Home Town: Boise, ID
Why is it on here?:  Great song.  Influential Band.  Should be a part of everyone's indie collection, because Chad Sones said so.  

Title and Registration - Death Cab for Cutie

Band: Death Cab for Cutie
Album: Transantlanticism
Released: October 7, 2003
Home Town: Bellingham, WA
Why is it on here?: These guys were one of the first instances that I remember of a band with an indie sound going mainstream.  Does that mean they are not indie anymore?  Is indie a sound?  Does indie only describe bands on indie labels?  Does anyone else get annoyed with the little boy keeps calling Indiana Jones, Indy?  Who cares really, the song is good and one of my favorite by the band.  The video reminds me of that board game Operation...zzzzap. 

A Good Start - Maria Tayor

Band: Maria Taylor
Album: Lynn Teeter Flower
Released: March 6, 2007
Home Town: Birmingham, AL
Why is it on here?:  She's got a great voice and she sorta looks like Tina Fey - two strikes and you're in.  

Thank You - The Redwalls

Band:  The Redwalls
Album: De Novo
Released: June 21, 2005
Home Town: Deerfield, IL
Why is it on here?:  I like this song a lot, it reminds me 70s era Bowie.  Hope you like it.

Too Bright To See, Too Loud To Hear - Underoath

Band: Underoath
Album: Lost in the Sound of Separation
Released: April 30th, 2008
Home Town: Ocala, FL
Why is it on here?:  This song starts off slow but has a great build and an intense ending.  Just what I needed today.  The video is truly a work of art.  See it by clicking here.  HERE. 

Where Is My Mind - Nada Surf (Pixies Cover)

Band: Nada Surf
Home Town: Brooklyn, NY
Why is it on here?:  Cover week continues....

I Can Talk - Two Door Cinema Club

Band: Two Door Cinema Club
Album: Tourist History
Released: February 28, 2010
Home Town: Bangor, Northern Ireland, UK
Why is it on here?:  I would call this electropop, somewhat along the same lines as Phoenix but maybe a little bit quicker tempo.  Vocally reminds me of Ben Gibbard (Death Cab/Postal Service) toward the beginning.  I like it.  

All I Want - Emery

Band: Emery
Album: Punk Goes 90's
Released: May 9, 2006
Home Town: Rock Hill, SC
Why is it on here?:  I've been in the mood lately of posting covers.  This is a killer version of "All I Want", originally done by Toad the Wet Sprocket in 1991.  There are a couple of other good tracks on the Punk Goes 90's compilation but this one is by far my favorite. 

Los Angeles I'm Yours - The Decemberists

Band: The Decemberists
Album: Her Majesty the Decemberists
Released: September 9, 2003
Home Town: Portland, OR
Why is it on here?: The Decemberists have a sound that almost instantly transports you back to the shanty towns of the early 1900s.  Colin Meloy (lead singer) writes stories in the form of songs.  This one specifically is about the city of Los Angeles - you can figure out the meaning on your own.  I will likely post more of their work in the future.  Maybe a Decemberists week sometime - maybe in the month of.....June.

Thirty-Three - The New Amsterdams (Pumpkins Cover)

Band: The New Amsterdams
Album: Myspace Tribute to the Smashing Pumpkins
Released: 2007
Home Town: Lawrence, KS
Why is it on here?: This is one of my favorite songs off "Melancholy...." This is a great version of the song by The New Amsterdams - a marginally successful side project of Matt Pryor (lead singer of the Get Up Kids).  Very mellow and perfect for a Sunday afternoon. 


No video for the song - enjoy it on Grooveshark.com.  It takes a second to load but its worth it, trust me.

Sideways - Lets Go Sailing

Band: Let's Go Sailing
Album: The Chaos In Order
Released: March 27, 2007
Home Town: Los Angeles, CA
Why is it on here?:  Cool song, good beat. Interesting fact: The bass player in this band is also the bass player in Silversun Pickups. 

Tonight I Have to Leave It - Shout Out Louds

Band: Shout Out Louds
Album: Our Ill Wills
Released: September 11, 2007
Home Town: Stockholm, Sweden

Why is it on here?:  If I was listening to this with my eyes closed I would think its The Cure.  Wait a minute, you don't see music, you hear it.  Anyhow, this is a cool song that reminds me a lot of The Cure.  

Pistol - Dustin Kensrue

Artist: Dustin Kensrue
Album: Please Come Home
Released: January 23, 2007
Home Town: Irvine, CA
Why is it on here?:  I dedicate this post to JoLee, whom I love so much.  


"You're the girl of my dreams
And a pistol it seems, but you shoot me straight and true
Time to lay down my fears,
Honey, I feel so safe around you."

Dimmer - BIshop Allen

Band: Bishop Allen
Album: Grr....
Released: March 10, 2009
Home Town: Brooklyn, NY
Why is it on here?:  This song was a recommendation from my friend Chad (member of former SODI band "The Cut Off").  Its a catchy little pop song that Chad describes as "A completely silly, but fun, catchy song.  Not a lot of substance but doesn’t get old." Nothing wrong with that.  

The Cutter - Echo and the Bunnymen

Band: Echo and the Bunnymen
Album: Porcupine
Released: February 4, 1983
Home Town: Liverpool, England
Why is it on here?:  I felt like something different today, this is one of my favorite Echo songs. This probably not really indie but raise your hand if you've heard it before.....thats what I thought.  

Orange Shirt - Discovery

Album: LP
Released: July 7, 2009
Home Town: New York, NY
Why is it on here?:  Side project from the lead singer of Ra Ra Riot and the keyboardist from Vampire Weekend.  It has a pretty interesting sound - very electronic with a good beat.  I wouldn't say its better than the members main bands but its worth a listen.

Your Rocky Spine - Great Lake Swimmers

Band: Great Lake Swimmers
Album: Ongiara
Released: May 8, 2007
Home Town: Toronto, ON, Canada
Why is it on here?: Just a good folk song. 

Mr. Your'e On Fire Mr. - Liars

Bands: Liars
Album: They Threw Us All in a Trench and Stuck a Monument on Top
Released: October 30, 2001
Home Town: Brookyln, NY
Why is it on here?:  Nowadays, Liars would be called experimental rock or art rock or just plain weird really. This song from their first album, has more of a dance-punk sound....still weird though.

Head First - Goldfrapp

Band: Goldfrapp
Album: Head First
Released: March 22, 2009
Home Town: London, UK
Why is it on here?:  This song is awesome.  Goldfrapp must have hopped in a Delorean, gotten up to 88mph and hopped back to 1985 to record this one.  Seriously, this could have been the title track to an 80s movie that was never made.  I can just picture Cory Haim now (RIP)  riding through town on a motorcycle as the credits roll while this song is playing.  

Apple Pie Bed - Lawrence Arabia

Band: Lawrence Arabia
Album: Chant Darling
Released: 2009
Home Town: New Zealand
Why is it on here?:  Heard this jam a few times in the past couple days, I've been humming it the whole time....and also craving apple pie....and a nap.  This obviously isn't the real video, they do have a real video for it but its appropriateness is questionable.
 

You Wont Know - Brand New

Band: Brand New
Album: The Devil and God are Raging Inside of Me
Released: November 20, 2006
Home Town: Long Island, NY
Why is it on here?:  I needed some intensity today and Brand New always brings it.  This song follows the theme of the album - the juxtaposition of good and evil as Jesse Lacey the lead singer struggles internally with his personal feelings about Christianity and whether or not he belongs in heaven despite his sins.

Dont You Evah - Spoon

Band: Spoon
Album: Ga Ga Ga Ga Ga
Released: July 7, 2007
Home Town: Austin, TX
Why is it on here?:  Spoon's songs all have a nice groove to them, you find yourself tapping your foot whether you mean to or not.  These guys are definitely on my "want to see live" list.  

Wide Eyes - Local Natives

Band: Local Natives
Album: Gorilla Manor
Released: February 16, 2010
Home Town: Los Angeles, CA
Why is it on here?:  This band has a great sound, reminds me a little of Arcade Fire with vocals like Band of Horses.  I heard this song on the college radio station on my way home from work and knew it was my song of the day.  

"In Search of 1988" - OZMA

Band: OZMA
Album: Rock and Roll: Part 3
Released: August 21, 2001
Home Town: Pasadena, CA
Why is it on here?:  Cool song, its like Weezer with passion. 

"Madder Red" - Yeasayer

Band: Yeasayer
Album: Odd Blood
Released: February 8, 2010
Home Town: Brooklyn, NY
Why is it on here?: I don't really know much about these guys but I like their sound.  Its a mixture of experimental rock and electropop that reminds me of some of my favorite bands from the 80s.  Give it a listen, hopefully you will like too.  Oh and by the way, its pronounced "Yay-sayer", I suppose its the opposite of naysayer.  

"One Armed Scissor" - At The Drive In

Band: At the Drive In
Album: Relationship of Command
Released: September 12, 2000
Home Town: El Paso, TX
Why is it on here?:  Although they broke up shortly after the release of this album, At the Drive In still influences bands 10 years later.  Known for their rapid tempo shifts and unusual guitar rifts, these El Paso natives are as intense on stage as they sound (as you can tell by the video - assuming you actually watched it - also assuming you actually read this).  The lead singer and guitarist left the band to form The Mars Volta (also seen on this blog) so they may look or sound familiar.  I've been hearing rumors lately of a reunion tour.

"From Debris" - Matt Pond PA

Band: Matt Pond PA
Album: Several Arrows Later
Released: Oct 11, 2005
Home Town: Philadelphia, PA
Why is it on here?: I just found out these guys will be here in June.  Let me know if you want to go, I've never seen them.  

French Navy - Camera Obscura

Band: Camera Obscura
Album: My Maudlin Career
Released: April 20, 2009
Home Town: Glasgow, Scotland
Why is it on here?:  Man I love her voice.  This is a good one, makes me want to join the French Navy. Ok maybe not. 

"Specks" - Matt Pond PA

Band: Matt Pond PA
Album: The Dark Leaves
Released: April 13, 2010
Home Town: Philadelphia, PA
Why is it on here?: Great track off of Matt Pond's new album that came out last week.  His songs always make me envision myself in a canoe floating down a river.  I would never actually do this, but this song gets me pretty close.

"Always On My Mind" - Phantom Planet

Band: Phantom Planet
Album: The Guest
Released: June 5, 2002
Why is it on here?:  Phantom Planet is most known for their song "California" the theme from the once popular TV show "The OC".  I never watched the show, (ok fine I secretly wished I was Seth Cohen) but I liked the song.  The rest of the album is full of equally juicy pop songs including this one that is sure to leave you singing.  

"Submarine" - The Drums

Band: The Drums
Album: The Drums
Released: To be released June 7, 2010
Home Town: Brooklyn, NY
Why is it on here?:  I stumbled across this band earlier this week.  Sounds like a mixture of 50's or 60's pop and 80's new wave.  Whatever the mixture is, it works.  The Drums havent even released an album yet but based on the first few tracks I've heard, this might be one to keep your eye on.  

"In Exile" - Thrice

Band: Thrice
Album: Beggars
Released: August 9, 2009
Home Town: Irvine, CA
Why is it on here?: Saw these guys last night.  JoLee's favorite song, she said it had to be the song of the day today so like a good boyfriend, I comply. 
Favorite Line:
I wont rest until my lips touch the shore
Of the land that I've been longing for as long as I've lived
Where they'll be no pain or tears anymore

"Dreams" - Passion Pit

Band: Passion Pit
Album: Manners Reissue
Released: TBD
Home Town: Cambridge, MA
Why is it on here?:  I was sitting here thinking about what my song of the day would be when I read a friends facebook post that said "Cant stop listening to Passion Pit's cover of The Cranberries 'Dreams'.  Listened to it and now its the song of the day.  Thanks Shelley.  

"iGeneration" - MC Lars

Band: MC Lars
Album: The Laptop EP
Released: 2004
Home Town: Berkeley, CA
Why is it on here?:  This guy is my hero. 

"Knights"- Minus the Bear

Band: Minus the Bear
Album: Planet of Ice
Released: August 21, 2007
Home Town: Seattle, WA
Why is it on here?:  Minus the Bear is an indie rock band with a kind of ambient vibe.  It'll be a good start to your Saturday.  

"Congratulations Smack and Katy" - Reggie and the Full Effect

Band: Reggie and the Full EffectAlbum: Under the Tray
Released: February 18, 2003
Home Town: Kansas City, MO
Why is it on here?:  Reggie and the Full Effect is the side project of James Dewees, keyboardist for the Get Up Kids (previously mentioned on this blog).  This is my favorite song of theirs, great beat, catchy melody and one of the best videos ever made.  Its worth the 2 minutes, I promise.  

"She's Got You High" - Mum-Ra

Band: Mum-Ra
Album: These Things Move in Threes
Released: May 28, 2007
Home Town: Sussex, England
Why is it on here?:  I like the song but the main reason is that the band is named after a Thundercats character. 

"The Grey Man" - Copeland

Band: Copeland
Album: You are my Sunshine
Released: October 4, 2008
Home Town: Lakeland, Fl
Why is it on here?:  I have been a fan of Copeland since the early 2000's.  Sad to say that tonight is the last time I'll ever get to see them in concert.  They are calling it quits and are doing one last "Farewell Tour".  Hopefully they change their minds at some point, but for now this is it.  

"Hills and Valleys" - The Rocket Summer

Band: The Rocket Summer
Album: Of Men and Angels
Released: February 23, 2010
Home Town: Fort Worth, Tx
Why is it on here?:  The Rocket Summer is Bryce Avary, a talented musician who plays all of the instruments on his albums and has an incredible passion for music.  He continues to churn out a mixture of piano and pop rock that always leaves you dancing.  Bryce is becoming more and more successful (Of Men and Angels is his 4th full length album on the same label as bands like the Killers, Fall Out Boy and pop stars like Mariah Carey and Rihanna).  Despite his increasing success he continues to maintain a level of humility and likability that you rarely see in celebrities these days.   

"Weapon of Choice" - Black Rebel Motorcycle Club

Band: Black Rebel Motorcycle Club 
Album: Baby 81
Released: May 1, 2007
Home Town: San Fran, CA
Why is it on here?: Black Rebel Motorcycle Club is all over the place when it comes to sound.  Depending on the album, they could be alternative, garage rock, alt-country, post-punk.....  This song and this album is a little more raw than their previous work - I would probably classify this track as alternative rock.  

"My Doorbell" - The White Stripes

Band: The White Stripes
Album: Get Behind Me Satan
Released: June 7, 2005
Home Town: Detroit, MI
Why is it on here?: This is one of my favorite White Stripes songs.  I cant believe I haven't put it on here yet.  

"This is War" - Dustin Kensrue

Band: Dustin Kensrue
Album: This Good Night Is Still Everywhere
Released: November 18, 2008
Home Town: Orange County, CA
Why is it on here?: Dustin Kensrue, lead singer of Thrice put out a Christmas album a few years back.  This song is a different take on the story of Jesus and a good one for Easter.  The beginning of the video starts with him talking about the song.  Happy Easter peeps (double meaning). 

"Flowers in the Window" - Travis

Band: Travis
Album: The Invisible Band
Released: June 11, 2001
Home Town: Glasgow, Scotland
Why is it on here?:  Dedicated to Robert Hiestand AKA the Flower Man, who passed away this week.  I saw him every day on the way to and from work selling flowers on the corner of Northside and Paces Ferry.  It made me think about all of the other things I take for granted and wont even realize it until they are gone.  Here is a link to the story if you are interested.  http://www.ajc.com/news/atlanta/buckhead-mourns-robert-the-425926.html

"In the Meantime" - Space Hog

Band: Spacehog
Album: Resident Alien
Released: October 24, 2005
Home Town: 
Why is it on here?:  This is old school for me, I remember rocking out to this while my mom was driving me to school in like 8th grade.  This band broke up for a while but are not back together and touring, I'd go see them. 

"Chacarron Macarron" - El Chombo

Band: El Chombo
Album: Chacarron Macarron
Released: 2005
Why is it on here?:  Just listen to it. 

"The Rules" - Ben Kweller

Artist: Ben Kweller
Album: Changing Horses
Released: February 2, 2009
Home Town: Greenville, Tx
Why is it on here?:  I don't really like country music anymore, especially today's mainstream country music, its awful. I don't care what anyone says, Taylor Swift is not country music. Rascal Flatts is not country music and the clothes they wear, MIGHT have been cool 5 years ago.

I do though like REAL country music, maybe you call it Texas Country or maybe I just like the old stuff - Waylon Jennings, Merle Haggard, older George Strait stuff.  You know what I mean.  Thats why I really like the new Ben Kweller record "Changing Horses".  It's got an obvious old country/western influence and I love how he incorporates the steel harp here.  I'm not saying its "PURE" country - no Dusty Chandler jokes please - but it is a lot closer than some of the stuff thats passed off as country nowadays.  

"I'd Rather Dance with You" - Kings of Convenience

Band: Kings of Convenience
Album: Riot on an Empty Street
Released:  June 21, 2004
Home Town: Bergen, Norway
Why is it on here?:  I love this jam (yeah, I just said that).  Kings of Convenience combines a mixture of pop, folk and rock to create a unique sound.  I love this video and wish I could have been in it.

I'd Rather Dance With You

Kings of Convenience | MySpace Music Videos

"Slob" - Weezer

Band: Weezer
Album: Maladroit
Released: May 14, 2002
Home Town: Los Angeles, CA
Why is it on here?:  This is probably my favorite non-Blue, non-Pinkerton Weezer song.  Great hook and some sick guitar riffs.  I hope these guys keep making music until they are 60.

"In the Sun" - She & Him

Band: She & Him
Album: Volume 2
Released: March 23, 2010
Home Town: Portland, OR
Why is it on here?:  Other than the fact that I am the founder of the Zooey Deschanel fan club....this is the first single off of She & Him's 2nd album that was released earlier this week.  She & Him has an alt-country type sound that takes me back to 1940s country.  "She" is Zooey Deschanel - actress you may recognize from movies like Elf and 500 days of Summer.  "Him" is...well...who cares.  

"We are Tomorrow" - Bleach

Band:  Bleach
Album: Again, for the First Time
Released: August 27, 2002
Home Town: Grayson, Kentucky
Why is it on here?:  Pretty cool rock song by Bleach, great chorus and the video reminds me of The Breakfast club.  

"Kids" - MGMT

Band: MGMT
Album: Oracular Spectacular
Released:  October 2, 2007
Home Town: Brookyln, NY
Why is it on here?:  I love the mixture of electronic pop and rock that MGMT brings to the table.  They have a new album out in a few weeks and will be appearing on several late shows to promote it.  Enjoy.

"Jude Law and the Semester Abroad" - Brand New

Band:  Brand New
Album: Your Favorite Weapon
Released: October 9, 2001
Home Town: Long Island, NY
Why is it on here?:  Probably one of the first Brand New songs I ever heard, power pop at its finest.  I love the intensity of their stage performance.  Though they have changed their sound up some over the years, that intensity remains.  

"Forever" - As I Lay Dying

Band: As I Lay Dying
Album: Frail Words Collapse
Released: July 1, 2003
Home Town:  San Diego, CA
Why is it on here?:  Felt like going heavy today.  As I Lay Dying is a Christian metalcore band (yes there is such a thing).  I love the intensity of the music and the performance.  When asked about being a Christian band the lead singer had this to say "I'm not sure what the difference is between five Christians playing in a band and a Christian band. If you truly believe something, then it should affect every area of your life. All five of us are Christians. Many of our songs are about life, struggles, mistakes, relationships and other issues that don't fit entirely in the spiritual category. However, all of these topics are written about through my perspective as a Christian."   So despite what most people think, just because a guy is yelling and screaming doesn't necessarily mean he is talking about sacrificing goats, killing people or worshiping the devil.  

"Beating Heart Baby" - Head Automatica

Band: Head Automatica
Album: Decadence
Released:  August 17, 2004
Why is it on here?:  Head Automatica is the dance-punk side project of Glassjaw's Daryl Palumbo.  This song has a great dance groove to it, Palumbo's voice is unparalleled as well.  I've never heard anything else like it.

Head Automatica - Beating Heart Baby

caley | MySpace Video

"This is our emergency" - Pretty Girls Make Graves

Band:  Pretty Girls Make Graves
Album: The New Romance
Released:  September 9, 2003
Home Town:  Seattle, WA
Why is it on here?:  Another female lead band, Pretty Girls Make Graves broke up back in 2007 but they still manage to make their way into my cd player.  The name is inspired by a Smiths song of the same name.  

"West Coast" - Coconut Records

Band: Coconut Records
Album: Nighttiming
Released: March 20, 2007
Why is it on here?:  Great track from Coconut Records.  Makes you want to go visit San Diego.  Not sure what the video has to do with anything but its amusing.

BONUS VIDEO: "Gimme the Gold" - Mobile Leprechaun

I know this is a day early, but hopefully you'll watch it today and have it stuck in your head all day tomorrow. This should be a staple in everyone's St. Patrick's day celebration.  

"For Nancy" - Pete Yorn

Band: Pete Yorn
Album: Musicforthemorningafter
Released: March 27, 2001
Home Town: Montville, NJ
Why is it on here?:  Great track off of Pete Yorn's debut album.  This was way before the Scarlett Johansen days.   
2 Things I learned from this video:
1) Pete Yorn has to be related to Yanni

2.  You shouldnt have yourself run in a music video if you run like a gorilla. 

"Hell" - Tegan and Sara

Band:  Tegan and Sara
Album:  Sainthood
Released: October 27, 2009
Home Town:  Calgary, Alberta, Canada
Why is it on here?: Tegan and Sara are probably the coolest pair of twins from Canada that I can think of.  Yeah so what if I cant think of any other twins from Canada?  At any rate, this is the first single off of their newest album.  Its poppy, its catchy, and it will get stuck in your head.  As usual, the video doesn't make sense.  

"Marlene" - Lightspeed Champion

Band:  Lightspeed Champion
Album: Life is Sweet! Nice to Meet You.
Released: January 25, 2010
Home Town: Essex, England
Why is it on here?:  I don't know much about this guy but I like this song and a few others I've heard. At some points it reminds me a little bit of  The Cure.  

"Sweet Marie" - The Anniversary

Band:  The Anniversary
Album:  Your Majesty
Released:  January 22, 2002
Home Town:  Lawrence, KS
Why is it on here?:  The Anniversary blends a mixture of keyboard pop and classic rock to create a truly unique sound.  They broke up in 2004 and little has been heard from them since, maybe one day they will do an Anniversary tour....

"Cannonball" - Damien Rice

Artist:  Damien Rice
Album: O
Home Town: Cellbridge, Ireland
Released: February 1, 2002
Why is it on here?:  Damien Rice is an Irish singer songwriter who really knows how to write a cathartic love song.  This song is off of Damien's first album O; he has had some marginal success in the US with songs on a few soundtracks.  I doubt there is another artist out there who has the innate ability to make you want to jump off of a bridge and cozy up to the one you love at the same time as well as this guy.

"Love in a Trashcan" - The Raveonettes

Band:  The Raveonettes
Album: Pretty in Black
Released: May 23, 2005
Home Town:  Copenhagen, Denmark
Why is it on here?:  The Raveonettes have a kind of modern surf rock sound that conjures up memories of bands like Jan and Dean, The Rip Chords and Dick Dale.  They recently released their 4th album "In and Out of Control" on London based Fierce Panda Records which is credited with releasing some of the early work of Coldplay, Death Cab for Cutie, and Keane.  I like the video but based on the name I was hoping for an Oscar the Grouch cameo.

"Sound of Settling" - Death Cab for Cutie

Band:  Death Cab for Cutie
Album:  Transatlanticism
Released: October 7, 2003
Why is it on here?:  To me this song is the heart of what Death Cab is - quick, catchy, pop songs that leave you wanting more and NOT on the Twilight soundtrack.  This album was their last released on a small label and is probably their most loved by fans - it certainly is by me.

"The High Road" - Broken Bells

Band:  Broken Bells
Album: Broken Bells
Released: March 9, 2010
Home Town:  Los Angeles, CA
Why is it on here?:  Broken Bells is the brainchild of James Mercer (The Shins) and Brian Burton (Danger Mouse, Gnarls Barkley).  The first album, released today, sounds a lot like the Shins but with a more electronic vibe.  I haven't heard the entire record yet but will be rushing out tomorrow to pick it up.  While we are on the topic of side projects/supergroups, here are a few more that are worth checking out. 
Dead Weather - Jack White, members of Queens of the Stone Age
The Postal Service - Ben Gibbard from Death Cab for Cutie
Monsters of Folk - Connor Oberst, Jim James (My Morning Jacket), M Ward
The Raconteurs-  Jack White, Brendon Benson

Band: Band of Horses
Album:  Everything All the Time
Released: March 21, 2006
Home Town: Seattle, WA and South Carolina
Why is it on here?:  This isn't the official video for this song but it probably should be.

"Microphone" - Coconut Records

Band: Coconut Records
Album:  Davy
Released: January 20, 2009
Home Town: Los Angeles, CA
Why is it on here?:  Coconut Records is the solo project of ex-Phantom Planet drummer Jason Schwartzman.  You may also recognize Schwartzman from his work in film - including Wes Anderson's Rushmore and The Darjeeling Limited.  As far as his music goes, both of his albums are full of pop rock gems.  I had a hard time deciding which to post so you'll likely see more later.

"Deadbolt" - Thrice

Band: Thrice
Album: The Illusion of Safety
Released: Feb 5, 2002
Home Town:  Irvine, CA
Why is it on here?:  This is classic Thrice.  An intense mix of melodic hardcore, metal and punk. These guys have managed to stay relevant over the years by changing their sound up but many will argue that The Illusion of Safety is when they were at their best.

"Brother" - Murder By Death

Band: Murder By Death
Album: En Boca Al Lupo 
Released: May 2006
Home Town: Bloomington, IN
Why its on here?:  When I first heard this band's name I thought it would be "crazy screaming stuff"....not quite.  Two things make Murder By Death interesting - 1) the use of an electric cello and 2) Adam Turla's voice which for me falls somewhere between Johnny Cash and Eddie Vedder.  Hope you enjoy the song - maybe tomorrow I'll post some REAL crazy screaming stuff.  

"Action & Action" - The Get Up Kids

Band: The Get Up Kids
Album: Something to Write Home About
Released:  September 21, 1999
Home Town:  Kansas City, MO
Why is it on here?:  This album spent weeks in my CD player in the early 2000s and its just as good today as it was then.  The Get Up Kids influenced bands like Fall Out Boy, Blink 182 and several other bands you'd like to punch in the face.  At any rate, this is a great song and the next time you see Pete Wentz walking his chihuahua on the cover of US Weekly you can blame these guys.  

"Permanent" - Acceptance

Band: Acceptance
Album: Black Lines to Battlefields 
Released:  May 20, 2003
Home Town: Seattle, WA
Why is it on here?:  Acceptance was a great pop-rock band; I was fortunate enough to see them live a few times before they moved on - one time was in a portable building behind a church.  Before calling it quits, they managed to put out a few EPs and one full-length album that had some moderate success commercially.  

"Blizzard of 77" - Nada Surf

Band: Nada Surf
Album: Let Go
Released: Feb 4, 2003
Home Town: New York, USA
Why is it on here?:  Another great track from Nada Surf and perfect for a snowy day in Atlanta.

"Quiet Little Voices" - We Were Promised Jetpacks

Band: We Were Promised Jetpacks
Album: These Four Walls
Released: June 15, 2009
Home Town: Edinburgh, Scotland
Why is it on here?:  I heard this band for the first time a few days ago.  First thought "I'm pretty sure that's the coolest band name ever".  Turns out they have a pretty good sound too, another band from the UK...seems to be a theme.

"Black Market Value" - the cut off

Band: the cut off
Album: Packaged Up for Beginners
Released: February 13, 2008
Home Town: Fort Worth, TX
Why is it on here?: Critics have described the cut off as a "fascinatingly languid conglomeration of '60s garage/psychedlia and '90s grunge leftovers".  I stole that from their website.  They have won multiple awards in the DFW area and have been predicted by a random guy on the street to reach #1 within the next 5 years.  For the sake of the bass player who is a friend of mine, I hope that guy is right, plus if they make it big time maybe Chad can get me Kelly Clarkson's autograph.  

"Panic Switch" - Silversun Pickups

Band: Silversun Pickups
Album: Swoon
Released: April 14th, 2009
Home Town: Los Angeles, CA
Why is it on here?:  This is "on here" because by the time this gets posted I will be waiting to see these guys open up for Muse tonight.  The distorted guitar and Brian Aubert's voice conjure up the sound of the Smashing Pumpkins.  I think its a fair comparison to make but once you hear the chorus, you'll forget all about Billly Corgan.  By the way, did you hear he is dating Jessica Simpson now?  Never thought one of the biggest names in alternative music would be taking Tony Romo's leftovers.

"The Good Life" - Weezer

Band: Weezer
Album: Pinkerton
Released: September 24, 2006
Home Town: Los Angeles, CA
Why is it on here?:  This is the second single from my favorite Weezer album and arguably their best album to date.  Pinkerton had a noticeably darker sound than the Blue album and although it was at first a commercial disappointment, it has gone on to sell almost a million copies.  I could go on and on about how much I like this album but I've heard that people stop reading paragraphs after two sentences so you probably aren't even reading this.  I made that up.  =W=

"Publish My Love" - Rogue Wave

Band: Rogue Wave
Album:  Descended like Vultures
Released: October 25, 2005
Home Town: Oakland, CA
Why is it on here?:  Sound reminds me a little bit of REM, especially the chorus.  In science circles a rogue wave is a large wave that can threaten even large ships and ocean liners.  Not sure I get that from the sound of this band...good stuff nonetheless.  

"Sunshine" - Matt Costa

Artist:  Matt Costa
Album: Songs We Sing
Released: July 26, 2005
Home Town: Huntington Beach, CA
Why is it on here?:  I saw Matt Costa open for Death Cab at the Fox here in Atlanta, I had always wanted to see him.  He just stood on stage by himself and played his guitar, there is something about that I enjoy.  He has a great organic sound and the video has some great artwork.  

"Pink Bullets" - The Shins

Band: The Shins
Album:  Chutes Too Narrow
Released:  October 21, 2003
Home Town: Albuquerque, New Mexico
Why is it on here?:  Another great track by the Shins.  

"Sic Transit Gloria...Glory Fades" - Brand New

Band:  Brand New
Album:  Deja Entendu
Released:  June 17, 2003
Home Town: Long Island, NY
Why is it on here?:  I remember waiting in anticipation for this album to come out back in 2002 and 2003 -- I was not disappointed.  Deja Entendu moved Brand New from the category of "pretty cool power pop band" to a legitimate rock band.  This song is intense and the video has a really cool premise.  The song name is a quote taken from the 1998 Wes Anderson movie, Rushmore and means "Thus passes through the glory of the world".  Interesting but I'm not sure I get it...

"Lily Two" - Matt Pond PA

Band: Matt Pond PA
Album: Emblems
Released: May 4, 2004
Home Town: Philadelphia, PA
Why is it on here?:  I love the organic sound of MPPA.  This song is great for a day like this, sunny but cool outside - would be great to listen to in a park watching leaves fall off the trees.  Ok that was lame but at any rate...MPPA did a great cover of Champagne Supernova you may be interested in looking up.  Enjoy your week.

"There is a Light That Never Goes Out" - The Smiths

Band:  The Smiths
Album:The Queen is Dead
Released: June 16, 1986
Home Town:  Manchester, England
Why is it on here?:  This is probably one of my favorite songs of all time, no matter the genre, time period etc.  There is something about Morrissey's voice that is so unique that once you hear it, you'll never forget it.  The video is a bit self indulgent but hey, it was the 80s.  I just wish I wasn't 5 years old when this record came out - it would've been nice to see it live.  

"Banquet" - Bloc Party

Band: Bloc Party
Album:  Silent Alarm
Released: February 2, 2005
Home Town:  London, England
Why is it on here?:  Bloc Party started off strong with their first album "Silent Alarm", full of catchy, dancey, groovy songs that are characterized by a sound reminiscent of the 80s and a drummer that doesn't know when to stop.  Enjoy and be sure to listen to the drums - probably my favorite aspect of this band.    

"Karma Police" - Radiohead

Artist: Radiohead
Album: OK Computer
Released: June 16, 1997
Home Town:  Oxfordshire, England
Why is it on here?:  It'd be nuts to do UK week and not include something by Radiohead.  I chose this song because it was the first song I heard by them when the light switch finally clicked on.  This video got pretty heavy rotation on MTV when I was in high school and I'll never forget the first time I saw it.  Pretty cool and certainly fits the name of the song.  (please excuse whatever lame commercial MTV decides to play before playing the video, I couldnt find a clip on Youtube)

Radiohead - New Music - More Music Videos

"Writing to Reach You" - Travis

Band: Travis
Album: The Man Who
Released: May 24, 1999
Home Town: Glasgow, Scotland
Why is it on here?:  
Another great band from Scotland - maybe I'm biased but I think these guys are much more talented than their more famous British counterparts Coldplay.  They aren't dating Gweneth Paltrow either - which might have something to do with it. 
Just to give you an idea of their popularity in the UK - this album was #1 on the UK Album Chart in 1999 vs #135 on the Billboard the US.  Just for reference, the number one album in the US that year was Millennium by the Backstreet Boys - and you wonder why people think Europeans are cooler than us?
Their songs are always smooth and catchy.  One thing I always wonder about UK bands is how they manage to sing without the accent?

"Cornerstone" - Arctic Monkeys

Band: Arctic Monkeys
Album: Humbug
Released: August 19, 2009
Home Town: Sheffield, England
Why is it on here?: I had this album in my CD player for about 3 weeks straight - every song is just as good as the one before it.   Probably more to come from these guys. 

"Geraldine" - Glasvegas

Band:  Glasvegas
Album: Glasvegas
Released: September 8, 2008
Home Town:  Glasgow, Scotland
Why is it on here?: UK week continues with Glasvegas.  Kick off your Monday right with this Scottish band that apparently has a thing for Harrah's.

"Lloyd, I'm Ready to be Heartbroken" - Camera Obscura

Band: Camera Obscura
Album: Let's Get Out of This Country
Released: June 6, 2006
Home Town: Glasgow, Scotland
Why is it on here?: I'm admittedly a big fan of female vocalists, something about the smoothness of their voices gets me every time.  This video makes me laugh with its retro styling and the fact that the lead singer doesn't seem to be having a great time.  At any rate, this band from Glasgow kicks off a week straight of UK bands.  This song may not be fitting for Valentine's Day but I don't think Enrique Iglesias makes much sense here either.

"Spitting Games" - Snow Patrol

Artist: Snow Patrol
Album: Final Straw
Released: March 30, 2004
Why is it on here?:  With all of the snow lately in both of my homes (Atlanta and DFW), I thought Snow Patrol was a fitting choice.  You've probably heard of these guys, but you probably haven't heard this song.  This was the first song by them I ever heard - its pretty good. Happy Snow Day.

"Image of the Invisible" - Thrice

Artist: Thrice
Album:  Vheissu
Released: October 18, 2005
Home Town: Irvine, CA
Why is it on here?:  In my opinion Thrice is by far the most underrated hard rock band out there.  They've been cranking out records for a decade now and each one is new and refreshing, while still sticking to the core of what make them who they are.  Dustin Kensrue, the lead singer often fills his songs with Christian imagery and spirit filled/positive lyrics to create songs that you'll want to hear over and over again.

"Saint Simon" - The Shins

Band: The Shins
Album: Chutes Too Narrow
Released:  October 21, 2003
Home Town: Albuquerque, New Mexico
Why is it on here?:  
Does the song sound good?
Are you clueless as to what the lyrics are talking about?
Does the video make no sense whatsoever?

If you answered yes to these three questions, chances are you are listening to The Shins.  All kidding aside though, these guys are a great band who continue to put out great records while never adapting a cookie cutter mentality.  If Natalie Portman says they'll change your life, I think you should give them a listen.

"Weightless" - Nada Surf

Band: Nada Surf
Album: Lucky
Released: February 5, 2008
Home Town: Brooklyn, NY
Why is it on here?:  You might remember Nada Surf from the mid-90s when they had a hit on MTV with "Popular".  Despite their start as a one-hit wonder of sorts, they have become a genuinely good rock band and have emerged as one of my favorites, though they are quite elusive when it comes to touring.  All of their songs have a great meaning and really helped me through some rough times a few years back.  This video is especially cool because it was filmed in Dallas - in a few shots you can see the skyline and reunion tower.

"Power Bleed" - Starlight Mints

Band: Starlight Mints
Album: Change Remains
Released:  June 21, 2009
Home Town: Norman, OK
Why is it on here?:  Another band with quite a unique sound.  Typically their songs are a little creepy and slower than "Power Bleed" which is the first single off of their latest album.  I picked this song because of the video.  Anything that conjures images of A Clockwork Orange, Fruit of the Loom and Devo at the same time is worth taking a look at.