Pat Monahan - The Pharmacy - Speaker Speaker - Bee Simonds - Low-Fi at Silver Platters

Silver Platters Queen Anne Location celebrates National Record Store Day with an all-day line-up of:
1:00pm The Mary McPage Band
2:00pm Matt Jorgensen + 451
3:00pm Pat Monahan
4:00pm Kim Archer Band
5:00pm Bee Simonds
6:00pm Speaker Speaker
7:00pm Low-Fi
8:00pm The Pharmacy
9:00pm How and Lightning
I’ll be running sound all day and the show is free so come on down!

Popularity: 1%

Partman Parthorse Booted Off Bill By Camel

Yes, Camel sucks, indeed.

You might be wondering what in the world is going on in this picture of Gary Smith, flamboyant frontman of Seattle punk group Partman Parthorse, his distaste for the cigarette giant in plain view. But if you’re keen to the Seattle scene, you’re most likely not surprised at the antics of one of the city’s most thrilling live acts.

Turns out this act of defiance was in reference to the sponsor of a show the band played at the High Dive in February of 2007 (read Philip’s lively account here), where they shared the stage with another explosive and talented local band, The Heavy Hearts. The company’s mobile advertising/survey system was definitely all up in peoples’ grills that night, and I recall thinking, “Wait…people still let Camel sponsor their shows?” I didn’t give it much more of a passing thought than that as I enjoyed the strong musical lineup. However, in a health-conscious city with an indoor smoking ban—in effect since January of 2006—it’s anyone’s guess as to why Camel would still be able to subsidize shows without the names ‘Nickelback’ or ‘Puddle of Mudd’ on the marquee. But I suppose, despite what we may prefer, American corporations still have some clout in this world, even in the seemingly detached enclave of the Seattle music scene.

Unfortunately, that clout has once again reigned supreme, as PMPH, scheduled to play that same High Dive this coming April 26th for their pals the Heavy Hearts CD release show, have been unceremoniously booted from the bill. Obviously, Camel didn’t take too kindly to the anti-smoking message Smith was flaunting last time around, and decided to rectify the situation. I guess I’m not all that familiar with how a conglomerate like Camel comes to sponsor a particular event, but I suspect record labels and club owners and their relationships come into play. Word on the street was that the HH asked PMPH to play the show, only to succumb afterwards to the political whims of the show’s sponsor, and the equine-obsessed band was promptly ‘86ed. Now, who actually succumbed, I’m not sure, but the simple fact that this happened pretty much…sucks. The Hearts appear to be genuine, hardworking musicians, so I can’t imagine they made the final decision. Maybe the High Dive has a hard-on with the unscrupulous backer? Considering the show is free, that may not be too far off the mark.

I’ll be honest, I’m not a cigarette smoker; I think it’s quite possibly one of the most short-sighted, albeit addictive, habits one can engage in. Yet I also believe in free will, so smoke ‘em if you got ‘em, ya know? But when it comes to the sanctioning of certain bands over others based on the preference of well-heeled, crooked cigarette pushers, you’ll forgive me if I find that repulsive.

Popularity: 16%

Joshua Morrison at Home

Washington native Joshua Morrison doesn’t have the typical background you might imagine for a singer-songwriter who’s on the verge of making his mark in music. An Iraq war veteran, and still serving in the U.S. Army, Joshua is a young and contemplative musician whose time overseas has shaped his musical output. Eloquent and sincere, seductive and sultry, Morrison’s wispy, soft-spoken vocals and catchy acoustic melodies melt your heart. His full-length debut, Home, is one of the most refreshing albums I’ve heard since its 2007 release. It’s a collection of compassionate diary entries that expose elements of loneliness, solitude, longing and love. His brooding and soulful lyrics are reflective of a man worn down from his displacement abroad and, perhaps, from having no choice but to await freedom and the far-reaching hope of returning ‘home’.

Luckily, home is exactly where Morrison was last Thursday night, if only for a brief stint between his transfer from North Carolina to Kentucky. His presence on stage at the Tractor Tavern contained a grateful and inspired energy. He spoke to the audience between songs and had a giddy enthusiasm and appreciation for Seattle and the Pacific Northwest. When he broke into Madness’ ‘when I see your face, it gives me hope’, he seemed to have renewed hope and patience for his inevitable, yet distant, return home. Morrison confesses that he yearns for the day when he’ll return to Seattle for good, most likely in a couple of years’ time. And it’s hard not to root for him, since he’s such a gracious and likeable guy.

Given the lonely, personal and soul-searching nature of Morrison’s songwriting, one would expect him to be quiet and introverted. The truth is, he has a jovial, energetic and down-to-earth nature, and he enthusiastically addressed friends and fans who approached him throughout the evening. A sturdy man in his mid-twenties, one might mistake him for a football player, not a singer-songwriter.

Morrison’s performance at the Tractor Tavern was endearing and enchanting. He was accompanied on-stage by a cellist, bassist and drummer, all of whom were just as smooth and magnetic as he was. Together, they gracefully launched his gentle songs forward. Only a quieter audience and perhaps better sound pickup of Morrison’s whispery vocals would have made the performance perfect.

Morrison plays at Sasquatch Festival on Saturday, May 24th at 3:15 PM. His debut album, Home, is available at your local record store or by clicking here.

Popularity: 14%

Overheard at Breakfast (File Under Non Sequitur)

Having coffee before class yesterday, I was doing some reading (last minute last minute!) and some chatty folks sat down at a neighboring table and had a lively conversation. Two highlights to share, then back to finishing my 1040A:

Regarding Radiohead’s latest, In Rainbows: “Radiohead’s new album is so good, other bands should just apologize…. I don’t know anyone who doesn’t at least like Radiohead.”
Turns out this was a paraphrase of another website’s critique/courtesy reacharound of this landmark release.
What is the deal with the ads for the on-sale date for the Radiohead appearance this summer? No show date, just “on sale Saturday 10am”. It just comes across as a little arrogant: “You know you want to come to the show no matter where or when.” Yeah, I am an adoring fan, but that’s a bit much.

“Dude, I heard Linda’s is closing!”
While not a music venue itself, it is a great pre- and post-show watering hole. I called a friend who is a manager for Linda, and have no fear, the official word is that Linda’s is here to stay.

Popularity: 15%

Autolite Strike CD Release at Blue Moon FREE!

APRIL 19, 2008 9:30
at the BLUE MOON
as always, the Blue Moon shows are free!

Autolite Strike, is punkabilly, garage and skuzzy rock and roll. The power punk trio celebrates the release of their second CD Mohawk Blues. Named after the factory walkout that turned into a melee in lead singer Frankie Stax’s hometown of Toledo, Ohio.

Their sound is a mix of dry, course, Rust Belt and wet, murky, Garage Rock. The soupy mess makes you shake your ass. Have a listen to the samples on their mySpace (link above) and you’ll know what I mean.

Popularity: 1%

King Cobra, Seattle - This Snake’s Got Bite

King Cobra, up on Capitol Hill has officially sunk its fangs into the Seattle music scene. The venue struck at the perfect time-just after the Crocodile Cafe had (un)expectedly closed its doors and Seattle was in the lurch for a venue named after a dangerous animal. Now, only a couple months out of their infancy, King Cobra is booking night after night of fantastic bands. I thought I’d share a couple of the highlights happening over for the next several weeks

Friday, April 18
The Pharmacy, The Pleasureboaters, Strong Killings, Tacocat

Saturday, April 19
9:00pm
Seattle Semi-Pro Wrestling…….. w/ Black Eyes and Neckties

I’ve seen Black Eyes and Neckties scorch the floor at the Comet Just before Monotonix lit the damn place on fire. Paired up with high energy dudes jumping off of fences and yelling obscenities at each other (and the crowd) during Amateur wrestling, this should be a night among nights.

Sat, May 17th 9pm
Thee Emergency (Record Release),
The Hands,
The Valley
Three of Seattle’s Superstars are gathered up here at Capitol Hill’s hottest new digs. Be sure to get here early and stay late. Nothing on this bill is going to disappoint. Thee Emergency is going to be celebrating the release of their new CD Solid due out in May.

Friday, May 30
Emeralds, Cancer Rising, Caves, The Physics
The Physics have been touted here by DJ 100 Proof as Seattle’s best Hip Hop group. Considering that they are opening this bill, I can only expect that this is going to be a lit-up show!
Friday June 25 and Sat June 26
Capitol Hill Block Party

Last but not least, King Cobra will be hosting bands this year at the Block Party. Not clear as to who will playing yet but given the current schedule, it’s going to be soemone worth seeing.

For more of the goings-on on the ‘Hill, you can find the entire King Cobra Schedule after the break (Updated 4-15-08)

Popularity: 22%

Love Is On The Menu

Most of you have probably already forgotten about my Portland-promise from earlier this year to try and highlight more music from our sister city to the south. I almost did myself, so I can’t say I blame you. Luckily, however, I’m here to back it up and expose a bright spot in the Rose City’s art scene.

In what seems like an increasing (but by no means recent) trend in the world of music, musicians these days are more than just simply musicians; they design stylish clothing, they fashion sustainable jewelry, they create visuals for a local concert, or they manipulate photographs for a friend’s gallery. In short, they’re multitalented, versatile and resourceful. At least, many of them are. One such example is Portland folk outfit Love Menu, featuring a crop of designers and musicians working together to bring their innovative ideas to the world. More specifically, the band will be bringing said visions to a trunk show and par-tay at the Last Waltz Boutique in Seattle’s Capitol Hill neighborhood on Saturday, April 26th.

Originally the solo project of organic clothing designer Emily Katz, the band has now progressed—and taken off—to include a slew of additional collaborators such as Bobby Smith on guitar and glockenspiel, Steve Kierniesky on the banjo and guitar, vocalist Jeevan Singh, and drummer/designer Emily Baker. Baker, who cloaks herself under the veil of Clever Castle, is a bonafide veteran of the Seattle music scene, sitting behind the drum kit for such bands as Sinestro, Enemy Kite, Via, Panda & Angel, and Touchdown Eagle, among others. Recently transported to Portland in the hopes of improving her chances as a jewelry designer, her body ornaments have garnered much acclaim for their uniqueness, their sustainability, and, of course, their magnetic charm. Now teamed with Katz, she and the rest of the Love Menu gang are taking the west coast by storm with a soothing catalogue of flourishing acoustic folk tunes. Katz’s hauntingly beautiful voice wafts through each of their songs as the players embellish with a flock of instruments, including melodica, autoharp, concertina, and, oh yes, handclaps.

The band will be embarking shortly on a tour through California, Oregon, and Washington in the wake of a successful recording session at the legendary Dub Narcotic Studios (that of K Records founder Calvin Johnson) in Olympia, WA. The party in Seattle will be the final stop. Come out and support local artisans as they weave their homegrown magic.

Post Script: Proceeds to benefit Baahaus, a Vashon Island animal shelter!

Popularity: 12%

Capitol Hill Block Party 2008: Get In Where You Fit In

Aaaaaah, yeah boooooooyyyyys and girlz, the lineup for this year’s installment of the Capitol Hill Block Party has officially been announced (my thanks to the Lady for the scoop). And it’s a doozy. Always a clever mix of local and national acts, this year is no different. The ever-popular Vampire Weekend will headline Friday’s show and the Hold Steady is the current front-runner for Saturday—soon to be usurped by a suprise (!) guest. Who that will be? Your guess is as good as mine, Nostradamus.

Here’s the current lineup, with over 30 more bands and DJs soon to be announced:

Friday July 25
Vampire Weekend
Les Savy Fav
Girl Talk
USE
The Dodos
Jay Reatard
Akimbo
Pwrfl Power
Past Lives
Black Eyes And Neck Ties
Champagne Champagne

Saturday July 26
Surprise guest!!
The Hold Steady
Chromeo
Kimya Dawson
Darker My Love
The Butchers And The Builders
The Hands
Vallela Vallela
The Physics
Man Plus
Little Party And Bad Business

Some personal highlights: Les Savy Fav is a really awesome band to be playing this festival, Girl Talk makes a second straight appearance, ex-Blood Brothers bands Past Lives and Champagne Champagne just keep getting better, Man Plus just released an excellent sophomore album, and Chromeo will certainly get the booty shakers out. Forget about your hang ups with the crowd and their fashion sense, the CHBP is always a tremendous place to hear new and interesting bands.

Presale starts THIS MORNING AT 10 AM (password is BLOCKPARTY). One day prices are a reasonable $18 (though they seem to increase every year) and two-day passes are $34. See below for your ticket buying preference, but note that the links won’t work until 10am, so hold your horses. And check out the Stranger for more info, yo.

Click to buy advance tickets for Friday.
Click to buy advance tickets for Saturday.
Click to buy a two-day pass.

Popularity: 18%