So Long 2011

It's the last day of the year. No plans for the evening, as yet. Probably gonna stay in, as it's amateur night, really. So anyway, here's a little something I heard this morning. I am looking forward to hearing more from this Manchester act.

Murder Mystery announce new indie pop EP

I heard from indie-pop act Murder Mystery today. On January 16th they are digitally releasing a 6 song EP of indie pop gems called "Problems." For a week starting on January 9th they are selling advance copies of it for $2 on Groopease.com.
I play the track "Problems" quite frequently on Turntable.fm and always receive a positive response. Download "Problems" to get hooked! This is a band to watch in 2012.




murdermysterymusic.com
myspace.com/murdermysterymusic
facebook.com/mmtheband
twitter.com/mmtheband

Melodies In Mono

My obsession with Swedish synthpop continues. Melodies In Mono have that less-dense, clean sound that I like. Vocals are unique, not some Dave Gahan or Andy Bell clone. Even the cover art is clean works for me! The Facebook page is here.
When I Fall by melodiesinmono

The Drums - How It Ended (Add n to (x) 7 Remix)

Found this on FaceBook this morning: "The Drums are thrilled to have collaborated with extremely influential and legendary band Add N to (X) on a remix of the latest Drums single How It Ended. This is the first creative endeavor from the band since they split in 2002."
The Drums - How It Ended (Add n to (x) 7 Remix) by WorkItMedia

Friday Find: New Lions

This lovely release arrived in my in-box today. I was immediately captured by the sound of With Lions. I hate to give sounds like comparisons, but sometimes the similarity is striking enough, and in this case, a huge compliment. I guess I'll say they remind me of Glasvegas. That's just my first impression and enough to want to share With Lions (Facebook link) with you! Buy the album via iTunes here.

Sun God by Cut Copy: free remix

Cut Copy are offering a free download of "Sun God (Andrew Weatherall Remix)" over on SoundCloud.

First Day of Christmas: Haberdashery

Six free synthpop tracks by Haberdashery. This year's addition is "The First Noel".
"Haberdashery (Stephen Pearlman) has been crafting synth-pop since 2004. Strongly influenced by Erasure and Björk, his productions are lush and incorporate multi-layered cinematic sounds with pop sensibilities. With an array of software and hardware, Stephen writes, arranges, and records all of his music."

The Magnetic Fields will be releasing a new album

The Magnetic Fields will be releasing a new album, Love at the Bottom of the Sea, on March 6, 2012, on Merge Records in North America, and Domino Records overseas. After putting out their "synth-free trilogy," The Magnetic Fields are returning to their signature mix of synth and acoustic sounds. Read more here.

Some Dark Dance From Tim Carr

Something wonderful hit my Inbox and I felt I had to share it. Even if it's copy-and-paste lazy bloggerizim on my part, the tracks are worth getting into.

"If you ask Tim Carr to describe his music you will find a consistently pure answer. His music is a portrait of the world through his eyes. He's not going for anything in particular - not melodrama, certainly not vanity, and not fame. He's just sharing his experiences and observations. He's just being Tim.

Having been drawn to the stage early in life, a theatrical influence transmits through Tim's music (one that is glaringly evident in his live shows). His upcoming release, "The Shadows", plays on this whimsical nature while also crossing in darker territory. Tim admits that "My music shows two sides of me. One that is playful and energetic (I love to dance). But one that is also introverted and dark. It's really just about the things that I experience in everyday life... happiness, tragedy and all of that."

For Tim this clarity was forged from past musical tribulations. In his early 20's he moved to Los Angeles and began working in mainstream music with the likes of Chris Field and ELO. However he quickly grew frustrated with the overproduced mentality and overbearing industry aspect of the LA music scene. Emphatically he sought refuge in San Francisco where he began writing and composing music with the simple idea that music should be about art first and industry last.

For the new release, "The Shadows", Tim teamed up with indie engineer and drummer Chris Crawford (French Miami) who recorded and performed on his last project. However this time he also enlisted the talents of veteran guitarist and mixing engineer Phil Manly (Trans Am, The Fucking Champs). The resulting sound is a perfect blend of flavors... it's dancy, dark, silly, fun, angry... it's Tim."

The Shadows releases February 7, 2012
Anymore
Cast The Line

Synthpop Keeps Coming

I guess I am in a mood for this specific genre. I particularly like the work of !Distain and I am happy to share this newish video of recent material. It does seem to aim for And One's crowd, and I am not sure they need to do that.

Leaning Back Toward Synthpop

Well, I have only recently been well into The Big Pink. Now, I find a remix from them and I have to say, I do like this. This has enough fun synthpop and a little alt-guitar to keep me satisfied. You need to read the blurb on this one, where the author writes: "were they "hipster shit to listen to while you're sipping Starbucks in your stupid Ugg boots posting Twitter updates on your newest Macbook?"

Peter Murphy B Sides

B-sides from Peter Murphy's new studio album "Ninth" are being released as a "Secret Bees of Ninth EP". Four of the tracks are unreleased non-album tracks and "Seesaw Sway" in thrown into the mix. Bee sure to pick it up!
Track-list
1. Gaslit
2. Rose Hunter
3. Good Works
4. Secret
5. Secret Silk Society (Full Version)
6. Seesaw Sway

Love In December

I almost had it, but it ended November 30. Still, I love Club 8.
Note, the column on the right now has many of my past, and still relevant, podcasts available in a new direct download format. No pop-ups or ads. Please listen and drop me a line at djtalbotlikesugar@gmail.com.

Germany's Digitalism gets remixed: Circles (Dillon Francis Remix)

Not my usual type of sound, but I do love the new Digitalism album. This remix has a bit of the dubstep annoyance, which will date the track in a few years, but I find the whole thing an enjoyable hybrid of genres.

My Blog Is For Sharing Songs Like This

This wonderful find comes to me from my good friend DJ Narcolept. He always finds me these little gems:

Latest Ladytron Video: Mirage

Ladytron Online:
http://www.ladytron.com
http://www.facebook.com/ladytron
http://www.twitter.com/ladytronmusic

Recommended: Future Islands

Carter Maness sums this track up perfectly: "“Balance” starts with a calm that could be waves or traffic and eventually breaks into a melancholic synth-heavy pop workout with melodies strong enough to please the biggest of New Order fans. “If you want something to change,” croaks the group’s singer Sam Herring. “You gotta change your life.”
A fitting track for this "blogger".

Blouse: Time Travel

Happy Halloween and all that. New girlfriend + 2 deaths in the family = I am not posting as much as I should. When I saw Portland's dream-pop band Blouse had a new offering, I had to share it with you. Love this band!

M83 Gets Covered and I Like It

Death in the family, so I haven't been as posty as I want. Here's a cover of M83's Kim and Jessie. I have been playing it every day at the imaginary club in my head.

Jah Wobble's new project Psychic Life

Jah Wobble's new project Psychic Life - the first single "Tightrope". Can't wait for a remix of this!

Discovery: Android Automatic's dreamy synth

Android Automatic has been around for a little over two years and has influences ranging from early '80s electro to present day synth-pop with a twist of dreamy disco. The Detroit artist was kind enough to send me three tracks from the ep "After Summer." The tracks are entitled "Stayed Too Late," "Magic In The Pyramids," and "Dreaming in Color." I found they fit perfectly with what I like in synthpop.
Several tracks are available to stream or download over at androidautomatic.official.fm
Facebook band page is here.

Cover Me on Friday

Look what I found today! I love good covers.
I am still without my mp3 library, so forgve my lack of posts.

I Was Away, But Now I Am Back

I have not posted in a while because my computer crashed in a way that is not repairable. This crash will involve a new mother-board and CPU. I am happy that no data was lost.
So, if I must search for the most respresentative music of this blog, of me, of whatever I want you to hear... I must submit the work of Human Drama. I love The Cure, New Order, Depeche Mode, The Smiths, Morrissey... but this is LOCAL. This is what matters, what moves in a way I cannot explain.

Pallers Preview: "The Sea of Memories"

Pallers "The Sea of Memories" official release date is on September 27th. You can try before you buy via Soundcloud's player below! Buy the record here or here (US).

Pallers - The Sea of Memories LP by The FADER

A New Lowe

The video for Sweden's LOWE's single "Mirage", taken from the album "Evolver". I find this act to be under-played, so please check them out!


Press release: "Sweden's Lowe returns with the highly anticipated release Evolver. Lowe's music can be described as pop noir, melancholic and melodic electronic pop music. Their previous two albums, Tenant and Kino International both received critical acclaim as album of the month by American, German, Swedish and Italian press and Evolver seems to be in line to reach the same plateau. Featuring the singles Breathe In Breathe Out, Mirage and Live to Love, Lowe is poised to take control of the North American market."

Blink And You'll Miss A Revolution

This was my pick for a second single or video from the new Cut Copy. This one's fun to watch and about 18 seconds shorter than the album version.

Cut Copy - Blink And You'll Miss A Revolution from Cut Copy on Vimeo.

M83: Midnight City Remix EP out September

"M83 is set to release Midnight City Remix EP on September 26th (27th in the US). Available digitally, the EP features an impressive set of remixes for the new single Midnight City by Trentemøller, Big Black Delta, Man Without Country, and Team Ghost." M83 on tour in North America and Europe this year. Listing here.
Intro (ft Zola Jesus) by M83
Download "Midnight City (Big Black Delta Remix)" free here.

Album Premiere: Girls

San Francisco's Girls, have a new album out on September 13th, called "Father, Son, Holy Ghost". Listen to it before it's out next week right here.

Another Blouse

Super-excited this a.m. to hear a new Blouse song! I somehow misplaced (lost?) my CTRL key last night. Power was out for 6+ hours and when it came back on, the ol' computer was not happy, so I guess I smashed the keyboard in frustration (as if that ever solved anything).

Mates of State: a Seventh Album

I know how to copy AND paste! It's 6 a.m., so this sort of thing is excusable, right?
"Connecticut-based indie-pop duo Mates of State's new album, Mountaintops, comes out September 13th via Barsuk records, but you can listen to an exclusive full album stream all week at Rolling Stone's website at the link below. About the album, Rolling Stone says, "Mountaintops, the band's seventh full-length album, finds them going further than ever with electronic textures without sacrificing the warmth and classic melodicism of their earlier work." Check it out and listen now!

I Want To Buy You Something

Just a quick note: you can stream The Drums new one, Portamento, at AOL Spinner here. I know I mentioned you could hear it on the NYT, but I want to be sure everyone hears this!
Continuing what I started with Stereo MCs... here's a video from a band that shows them giving a little background, playing live and recording. I hope to see these elements from more acts. The band is a Dutch act called Jaffa. I will be looking into them a little deeper soon.

Blitz OST

Just watched this film. I thought the music was well-chosen; kept me in the mood for action. Jason Statham, Paddy Considine and Aidan Gillen. A fun time.

Generationals

It's Labor Day here in the US. That means some of don't have to work. It actually rained early this morning and I heard thunder not long ago. Very rare for where I live.

I am trying to figure out how to incorporate Spotify in my blog. Spotify is much better than iTunes for the kind of music I like to share. So, here's a link to a band I wasn't too familiar with. Generationals on Spotify. The link opens up your Spotify, if you have it, much like iTunes opens up via their links. This track is a good place to start. I think I heard it via tweedle on turntable.fm.

Young Empires

Young Empires (www.youngempires.com) are doing it for me this holiday weekend. Their bio says they are "a Canadian music group that NME Magazine compared to the likes of The Killers, Arcade Fire, Yeasayer, The Rapture, and Foals. Defined by swirling synthesizer tones, soulful bass grooves, and funky guitar rhythms, Young Empires deliver dance tracks full of swagger, sexuality, and a little angst."

September Wasn't So Far Away

Combing through some un-read emails today, in search of more tunes to share. I have been neglecting my blog, I know. Turntable.fm is addictive. I've met some great people there and I have learned that I know very little about some genres of music. It's wonderful to sit back and hear music you've never heard. Last night, some kind of southern or country music mood overtook the DJs and I found myself at a loss to join-in. I tried, and was surprised to have the support of the room. Good times.

Check-out two of my finds from today's search (thanks to rcrd lbl)

The Drums premiere their sophomore album "Portamento"

A favorite here on Like Sugar, I am pleased find The Drums premiere their sophomore album "Portamento" on The New York Times' T Magazine!
Listen here.

For More Information:
http://www.thedrums.com/
http://www.facebook.com/wearethedrums
http://www.twitter.com/thedrumsforever
http://www.myspace.com/thedrumsforever

Turntable.fm and The Lexingtons

I hear something I like here. I'd even say it's twee, if that's ok. Lord knows, I have been deep into twee at turntable.fm of late. This would fit in nicely:
I Don't Belong (stripped down mix) by thelexingtons

Just Added: Cut Copy Plays 10/12 Hollywood & 10/14 In San Diego

Oh, man, I wanna go! To see a full list of shows, go to cutcopy.net
Latest tracks by cutcopymusic

Stereo MCs - When I Was A Boy

This one takes off at about 2 minutes, so hang in there. Great track and this is what a fan wants in a video. Stereo MCs!

Face The Beat

I am working my way through "Face The Beat - Vol 1". You can download it for free here.
Sideline's chief editor Bernard Van Isacker says "expect bands you never heard of with an own sound mixed with better known acts. We were very lucky that a few labels realized pretty soon that the impact of this compilation could be quite big, so they offered us some more known acts to push this project."

Cold Cave: Life Magazine

I guess this was a song used on a commercial. I say, never read the comments on youtube. They don't help. Anyway, I found this to be a particularly good near 3-minute track (with female vocals, rather than the dreary male) and subsequently looked for a video. Result:

Ivy "Fascinated": new track now available to stream

Indie-pop trio Ivy released a new track entitled “Fascinated” from their long-awaited fifth studio album All Hours, out September 20, 2011. To celebrate the album’s release, the NYC-based trio (Parisian-born singer Dominique Durand, Andy Chase and Adam Schlesinger)recently announced their first live show in five years at the Gramercy Theatre on Saturday, September 24 in their home city with special guest Tahiti 80.
IVY - Fascinated by nettwerkmusicgroup

I Read Other Blogs! SULK

I read about SULK over at Eardrums and I thought I should share this early 90's sounding act to help spread the word. Read more at the original post here.

Rogue Wave side Project: Release The Sunbird

Sometimes I step away from the electronic world and embrace the warm sound of plain old (alternative) rock 'n' roll. Rogue Wave might not be a band you'd expect to find here, but I suggest you look into them. This post is about a side project from the lead singer called Release the Sunbird. They have a nice under-stated sound, but this is no arty folk junk. Fans of Trashcan Sinatras, Wilco, Pernice Brothers, etc should enjoy.
Here's a free preview of the new album in entirety, courtesy of NPR .
Hey, look, it's Bob Odenkirk!

Washed Out Remix

Just finished watching (with one eye) "Limitless". I haven't been so entertained by a film like this in a long time. Please see it. Bradley Cooper is such a likeable actor.

This remix of Washed Out's "Echoes" by Little Star Dweller is very well done. I'm glad the artist didn't take it to 6 minutes or something. It's perfectly timed with an improved drum pattern.
Washed Out - Echoes (Little Star Dweller Remix) by Little Star Dweller

Stockholm Belongs To Us

A new 22 song compilation is out now: "Stockholm Belongs To Us - A Labrador Records Compilation." Get it here.

Two Minutes and Thirty-five Seconds Is All You Need

An essential track for Summer. "Beach Slalom" by Bos Angleles. Listened to it about 5 times in row. Thanks to DIY for listing this!

When Chill Caves in on itself

I have to address this: while I enjoy the sound of Washed Out, there is this nagging feeling that I have heard it all before. I can't sit through the entire album. I know that saying "it sounds the same as" is a cheap shot, a lazy way of expressing an opinion... but I gotta say, this has little repeat power for me. I probably wouldn't say a single thing about the album if it wasn't showing up on mixtapes and podcasts. It's rather mediocre, and I think I have listened to way too much chill-out music over the last 15 years. Ulrich Schnauss does this better. I hate to criticize, but I need to do so once in a while, otherwise this is just a blog with recycled promo material.
So what am I listening to now? Go here to hear something that doesn't bore.

Photovoltaik: We Have Sound in San Diego

San Diego's own Photovoltaik offers the sound we love (dark wave electronic new wave post punk synthpop) with 6 lovely tracks at Bandcamp.
I look forward to more coverage for them. I like where they are going and given the local aspect, I am especially interested!

Humans - Avec Mes Mecs

*oly crap, this one excited me at once. I love the crunchy aspect of the beats and the tempo allows play at any time of day or night. Another reason I encourage you to sign-up with RCRD LBL.



Unexpected day off... new !Distain to listen to. "On / Off" is the CD title. I love my German synthpop. Note that distain is a different word than disdain, something I never noticed for quite some time. Now, why the "!" in the band's name is another mystery. Perhaps a reader can comment.
Got a haircut earlier. Can't beat the $10 price. I asked for a Morrissey style cut, as I am going a tad gray and he looks fabulous for a man a scant 12 years older than me. As a Moz fan since 1984, I think he's aged quite well.

Pictureplane Free mp3 + AHK Video

Sorry for the lack of posts this week. I have a serious eye condition. Typing is a pain in ass because I can't see the screen clearly. I'm in the care of a doctor and a specialist, so I have faith that I'll recover eventually.
My previous post mentioned Pictureplane. Today the mighty RCRD LBL offers the track for download!


A perfect Summertime song by Acid House Kings now has a video (digital single came out 28, June). I meant to post this last week, but I felt I was listening to a lot of Labrador Records tunes, so I waited. Be sure to check out the new Pallers single "Come Rain, Come Sunshine" which drops 26, July. I am using Euro dates now?

Listen: Pictureplane - "Thee Physical"

Listening to the entire new Pictureplane album, "Thee Physical", and this one is my my pick for best track:
Post Physical by PICTUREPLANE
Track "Real Is A Feeling" is a close second stand-out.

Pallers - Come Rain, Come Sunshine

If this gentle track doesn't grab you on first play, try it again. There is a subtle beauty that brushes over your ears like wind. Perfect dreamy music and voice for the Summer (and even the Winter for you in the Southern Hemisphere!).
Pallers - Come Rain, Come Sunshine on Sweden's Labrador Records. Download or stream here.

Yet Another Soundcloud Find: Skai Nine

Looking something like trip-hop all these years later? I have found Skai Nine satisfies my search. Crisp electronic arrangements that get your head nodding. Explore Skai Nine on Soundcloud. Best to sit back and listen to several tracks, as the sound hits different moods.
Nova by Skai Nine

White Apple Tree - Circles - new Indietronic

San Diego’s indietronic duo White Apple Tree (WAT) win me over, quite easily, with this mid-tempo track from their 2nd album "Smooth Jaws". 37 Records’ White Apple Tree is celebrating a 2011 MTV Euro Movie Award nomination for breakout independent German film, Kokowääh. WAT’s hit single, “Snowflakes,” is featured in the film and appears on the official soundtrack for the movie. The film’s buzz helped "Snowflakes" reach the Top 10 on iTunes Deutschland, while the soundtrack reached #11 on Amazon Germany.
You'll be hearing more from White Apple Tree here on Like Sugar soon!
They will be performing here in San Diego The Casbah on Sunday, July 3, 2011 at 7 p.m.

Listen to Washed Out's new one for free

I am not sure if this will work outside the US, but here goes: NPR is hosting the entire new Washed Out "Within And Without" album (out July 12). You can stream the whole album or listen to individual tracks here. This electronic music will appeal to fans of Ulrich Schnauss, dreampop, Slowdive, shoegaze, etc. You can't beat free music to chill to! Oddly, this is on Subpop, a label headed in the right direction, unlike 4AD which is off the rails!
Don't forget to listen to my latest project: "Viernes" (only listen on Fridays, when the sun is setting). The link is here. I am currently looking for Spanish language: synthpop, electronic dance music, gothic rock and indie pop. Submit suggestions to djtalbotlikesugar@gmail.com.

Two Door Cinema Club: What You Know

Not sure I'll post much about Glastonbury, but I thought this was worth sharing. The insanely catchy Two Door Cinema Club played perfectly, showcasing this evidently popular track (What You Know). Original above, live version below.

"Viernes": a new project from yours truly

"Viernes" is a new series of alternative electronic music mixes for your Friday night ritual. Focusing on the deserving tracks I am unable to feature on my regular Like Sugar podcast. Expect Brit-pop, synthpop, electro and 80's + 90's gems. 40 to 50 minutes and should be out on Fridays, so sorry for the late post. Facebook and Twitter saw prompt posts, I neglected my blog due to the overwhelming urge to dance.
So, listen via stream or download here (zshare).
I have had this project on the back burner for a long time. My original intent was to have the talking bits en Espanol and to feature a few Spanish-speaking acts as well. I know there is a huge following for acts like Peter Murphy, Clan Of Xymox, Depeche Mode, The Cure, and so on in Central and South America. I don't want my blog and mixes to be overly Euro-centric.

Indiepop Time For Me

I've played a few tracks by The Horrors on the podcast and posted a bit about them.
Here we have Horrors vocalist Faris Badwan pairing up with Rachel Zeffira to create that 60's boy-girl sound that I can't get enough of. I don't listen to this type of music every day, but when I do, I line up a few hours worth. If Sarah Records was still going, Cat's Eyes might have had a chance to join them (yeah, I know, Cat's Eyes is on a major label). Summing it up: I just love Mr. Badwan's voice and I am glad he went here with it!

Below, I added a track that compliments Cat's Eyes. The band is Kids On A Crime Spree, and this track is a stand-out.
KIDS ON A CRIME SPREE - Trumpets of Death

New Music from The Whip

The Whip: Wired Together (Sampler) by Southern Fried Records
Underwhelming? Maybe. Still, there is something about these guys that engages me. Beats Junior Boys and Chromeo. You listen at the right hour and you may be surprised.

Crystal

Crystal Stilts - Shake the Shackles from Army Of Kids on Vimeo.

I'm thinking there are too many bands with the word "Crystal" in their name. Certainly, Crystal Castles are quite popular, and then we have Crystal Fighters, The Crystal Method, Crystal Gayle... and that might hurt other Crystal-named bands. Enjoy some Crystal Stilts.

Pop Noir: A Look Into Mirrors

From Mirrors' first documentary that aired on Channel 4 on June 9, 2011 as part of the 4Play program.

Stereo MCs Update

Footage of new band line up:

So Eighties

Rather happy with this remix collection of 80's tracks. I think these charted in the UK more than here in the US, so this is especially listenable. Track-list here.

We Don't Want Your Body

I always knew this would be a Stars single! Pair it with PIL. I suggest listening, rather than really watching this one.

2 New Tracks by Ivy

Ivy's new album 'All Hours' will be available Sept 20th but you can get your hands on two of the tracks "Lost In The Sun" & "Distant Lights" now at iTunes for only $0.69 each.
IVY - All Hours [Album Sampler] by nettwerkmusicgroup

The Blood Arm: Turn And Face Me

New album ‘Turn And Face Me’ came out June 3rd in Germany, and we can expect a July 4th release around the world. "The Blood Arm are a Los Angeles-based four-piece rock band whose intense live performances and catchy energetic songs have earned them fans and critical acclaim worldwide." Read more here. I saw these guys live twice and they put on an energetic show.

The Blood Arm : "Relentless Love" - (27th June 2011 release) by 1-2-hear

The Pains of Being Pure at Heart: Bonus Track

From the Japan-only release, a track titled "Tomorrow Dies Today": stream it here.
Is it a pain in the ass to leave comments on this blog? If so, you can always email me at this address: djtalbotlikesugar@gmail.com or hit me up on twitter.

Serenades - Official Video

As mentioned, this is great side material from Shout Out Louds. I think this will make an appearance on Like Sugar 39. The strings made the difference.

Stars - In Our Bedroom After The War Demos

The album is available in digital format only, across the world from their store, in regular and high quality downloads. Check out the limited edition bundles available this month only. These are the demo recordings from their 2007 album , and they're proud to share the first versions they cut in late 2006, deep in a Montreal winter. They have weathered well and with them they hope to brighten your day.

This marks the beginning of a busy month for Stars. They just finished a second writing session for the new album and things are rolling along beautifully.

Next Tuesday, June 14th tune into Pitchfork for the premiere of the new video for 'We Don't Want Your Body'.
Stars - The Worst Thing (Whitey Jam) by Arts & Crafts

66 Second Song By Insect Guide

Perfect. Buy it here

Tom Vek: Stream the new "Leisure Seizure" album

Tom Vek's new one is streaming until the digital release on June 7th. The physical release will not arrive until September!

New Coldplay: Every Tear Is A Waterfall

Coldplay says: "'Every Teardrop Is A Waterfall' will be available digitally on Friday 3rd June at 12pm (BST), except in the UK where it'll come out on the stroke of midnight between Saturday 4th and Sunday 5th June. We'll also stream it on Coldplay.com on Friday."
Wow, that is one colorful cover. Eww. I fixed for my readers below:

Wait! Should it be all yellow?

Miracle Fortress remixed by Diamond Rings

Dreamy electro-pop: both bands are worth checking out: Diamond Rings and Miracle Fortress. I love this track:

Foster the People Performs "Pumped Up Kicks" Live

As heard on Like Sugar podcast 38 here.

Kid Kasio Website

Kid Kasio has a beautiful website. Be sure to check out that boom box to hear great synthpop.

The Horrors: new single

via XL: "On July 26, XL releases dark-minded British post-punkers the Horrors' third LP, Skying. Stream the romantic, synth-heavy first single "Still Life" above."

Lowe: New Single "Breathe In Breathe Out"

This is a synthpop blog, after all, and so I present another electronic selection by Lowe for you:

Find more artists like LOWE at Myspace Music

Modern Synthpop Defined: ZyniC

At first listen, I knew I would adore this album by ZyniC. It touches on all the elements of synthpop that I love so much. The melodies, the classic vocal style, that analogue synth and little bubbly squelches. I love that Speak 'n' Spell effect for some reason. Each track has a lot going on, but it doesn't become sensory overload. The lyrics deal with the subjects we've come to expect from the genre: love, silence, the heart, blame, regret, dreams, the soul... I could go on. Instead, I encourage you to get a hold of Zynic's Fire Walk With Me as soon as possible. A Different Drum, the premiere source for electronic pop on the web, has it here.

New Blondie: Video for "Mother"

Yes, the flood of posts is insane today... but this time of year yields many good releases. Blondie does it right this time on many levels. This song and video renews my faith in the bands that made me fall in love with music in the early 80's.

Shout Out Louds side project

The always brilliant Shout Out Louds are recording... and Adam Olenius (vocals/guitar) has started a duo called Serenades. There is a free download of "Birds" here.

Unreleased Track from New Order

All credit for this find goes to Slicing Up Eyeballs, a top-notch site for music information.
New New Order! Well, new in that it's a previously unreleased track from New Order recorded in 2005. Available for the first time on the new Joy Division & New Order compilation TOTAL, released on June 6th, 2011.
New Order - Hellbent (Previously Unreleased) by Rhino UK

Foster the People album release nears

Foster The People have this to say: "We can't believe we are only days away from Torches being released. There have been a lot of questions about when Torches will come out in each country. Here is what we know...
May 20th- Australia
May 23rd- United States & Canada
Week Ending June 27th- Available everywhere
Torches will be available on iTunes for $7.99 for the first week in the U.S.. If you have already purchased our EP or any individual tracks, iTunes will offer the "Complete My Album" discounted price so you are not paying for the songs twice."
Pre-order and get three songs instantly, pretty cool deal.
You can listen to the album now on AOL. Click here to stream.

New Ladytron: White Elephant

"White Elephant", from the upcoming Gravity the Seducer album. The video is for listening, not watching. I think it hits its stride at 2:42. I hear some maturity for the band. Looking forward to a little change. Almost Grimly Fiendish with those keys.

Horrorfall Covers KMFDM

A great modern version of the 1995 Industrial dance-floor filler! It's available as a free download here.
Horrorfall on Facebook.
Horrorfall on Twitter.

HORRORFALL - Juke Joint Jezebel (KMFDM Cover) by colinc

The Horrors + Portishead

As heard on Like Sugar Podcast 38, The Horrors. Somehow, I missed that Geoff Barrow, the genius behind Portishead, produced their new album. I love this kind of backward referencing. Now, I am re-listening to The Horrors with a tuned ear.

Blouse: Into Black

Loving this track today. Curtains closed, a bit of wine, black trousers, black t-shirt, docs... what a dork I am. Oh well, this song just does it for me.

Haberdashery: Synthpop that will Stay with you

Here's some classic, crisp synthpop from Chicago's Haberdashery. I am quite impressed with this act. There is a subtle aspect to the music. It's never over-the-top and in your face like some synthpop. Be sure to hit Soundcloud to hear a lot more from them.


Stay by Haberdashery

Listen to new Friendly Fires before it's out!

Thanks to my friend, Barbara S. for discovering and sharing this great band with me!

My new podcast is available

Like Sugar PopCast #38 is here to stream (via zShare) or download directly (file size: 79.2 MB).
Tracklist below:

Peter Murphy 3 Track Sampler

Peter Murphy will be releasing a new album titled "Ninth" on June 6th (UK) and June 7th (US).
Peter Murphy appeared live on April 7th on WYEP in Pittsburgh. Listen to Peter's full interview and live acoustic session.

Peter Murphy - Ninth [Sampler] by nettwerkmusicgroup

Young Legionnaire feat. Gordy of Bloc Party

Young Legionnaire are Gordon Moakes (Bloc Party), Paul Mullen (The Automatic, yourcodenameis:milo) and William Bowerman (I Was A Cub Scout, Brontide).
This kind of rock is becoming more scarce, at least for me. Maybe my exposure to it is diminishing as I age. The track below transports me to the 1990's. Anyway, I am posting this because I love Bloc Party and enjoy this sort of harder sound. Their debut album is finally out this week on the awesome Wichita.
Get it on iTunes.

Sixth of May means Cranes

Forgot to post this yesterday! 6th of May with interview. Cranes. I treasure my CD single of this one. It has a "Now on tour with The Cure" sticker on the back.

I have had this Washed Out track (Subpop) on repeat for the last hour. I love this style of music. Reminds me of Ulrich Schnauss or even Cocteau Twins. Shimmering, electronic dream pop that borrows the vocals and lazy bass-lines from shoegaze, the drum patterns from trip-hop and the synth from the 90's. There are remixes too, the best being the RAC one I embedded below.
Washed Out - "Eyes Be Closed" by Stereo/Pirate
Comments welcome. Just say hello if you dig this sort of sound. Album is out July 12.
Washed Out - New Theory (RAC Mix) by RAC

I Can't Shut Up About The Insect Guide

God, I love this song. "Instrumental version of 'Tape' mixed for the documentary/film 'Dark Days & Nights'. The original can be found on the album of the same title", says the band. I say one minute and twelve seconds of bliss. You gotta love these guys. They offer-up so much free music, I can't help but mention them. Talented.

Finally, Some Synthpop for You (Free!)

Anything Box is offering a free remix ep this week. Get the zip here. Yeah, I know the pic of the track-list may not look pretty, but I have re-sized over and over. You love 90's synthpop? Then you know these classics!

New Cold Cave Video

I see there is a video for this great Cold Cave track. It just so happens I picked this one for inclusion on Like Sugar PopCast #38. I love it when I pick the singles before they are out. These guys were just at Coachella and are now touring.
I do take a risk, in that this a "Vevo" video...

The Sound of Arrows - Nova

I posted the first material from Sweden's The Sound Of Arrows some time ago. Here is some newish material from this great synthpop act. I detect some growth, something in this song that sets it firmly in the genre of modern synthpop: it's all done just right.

Stars - The Prisoner

I was walking to the market today, a-social headphones in place. This song came up in the shuffle, and I was reminded of just how pleasant this track is. Instead of posting the original, I found a great live version. Seeing them perform it adds to the emotion behind the lyrics.
Canada's Stars have consistently released music that I enjoy very much and recommend. If you like the live version, be sure to hear the original on The Five Ghosts. The newest single, “Changes” is available on iTunes.


Happy thirty-something birthday to my mate Gabe / DJ Narcolept! He's one of my biggest supporters and gave me a ton of DJ gigs a few years back. I will posting his latest music/film projects here on Like Sugar, so stay tuned.

Fleet Foxes Update: Stream the new album

NPR is hosting via the First Listen program. Go there and listen to Helplessness Blues in its entirety. The album drops May 3.

Dreamy Mix Of Now, Now

I thought this one has a warm glow to it. Reminds me of the best of Delerium, Conjure One, Balligomingo or even Schiller. Give it a listen and leave me a comment if you like this sort of sound.
Now, Now - Jesus Camp (Remix) by nownowmusic

Det Vackra Livet (Mary Onettes) Free Single

Labrador Records has announced that the "majestic new single "Askan" by Det Vackra Livet is out today. You can of course download it for free."

Labrador says, " is the new heartbreaking duo from the brothers Philip and Henrik Ekström of The Mary Onettes. A perfectly eccentric and personal mix of The Cure, Ingmar Bergman, Claes Andersson's poetry and Arcade Fire. An absolutely stunning album!"
Not sure they are anything like Arcade Fire, but that band is popular at the moment, so marketing must do what it does.

Watch the video for the first Det Vackra Livet track "Viljan" as posted here on Like Sugar. I played "Viljan" on Like Sugar PopCast #37.

Months Later, These Tracks Hold Interest

After listening to the new Holy Ghost! album, I had to clean my ears with something more my style. I present two videos from the much more talented The Naked And Famous:

Moanday

Well, I took some time to listen to what other people are listening to. I found a few things my readers/listeners might like.
First-up is this Danish act. Found the video via Stripmall Architecture's excellent "Playlist" blog entry. Reminds me of Delerium or Balligomingo. Enjoy Our Broken Garden.


What else? A reader mentioned this act and I as instantly into them. Too bad a certain host may flag me for posting this, even though it's available to share, legally on Youtube!

My punk rock drumming brother sends me suggestions every month. The guy has a great ear and I wonder why he doesn't do his own show. He's too busy with his band, I guess. A real stand-out is a track by The Marked Men. (Hi, Devon!)

Kiethevez Working On New Album

The news: "After the very well received third album "Non-binary",
the Swedish electro-pop act Kiethevez decided to take a
break for two years to get new inspiration and creative
energy. But now Kiethevez are in the studio and working
on new material again."

Visit kiethevez.com and read more.

Foster The People: Pumped Up Kicks (remix)

Thanks to a listener for this tip:

Christina Aguilera - Birds of Prey (Reuben Wu Ladytron Remix)

Only because this tune is remixed by a member of Ladytron (and my afternoon plans were canceled!) I can dig this.

My Friday Night iPod Shuffle

Well, as I have not had a good experience with posting or sharing legal videos from any Vevo-hosted bands, I will just mention that The Vaccines (vocalist pictured above and yes, I need to get that red border fixed) have been in heavy rotation here. Mixed or shuffled with the new Pains of Being Pure At Heart ("Belong"), The Ravonettes ("Raven In The Grave"), Chapel Club ("Palace"), and perhaps some Cold Cave ("Love Comes Close" and "Cherish The Light Years"), Hooverphonic ("The Night Before"), Mogwai ("Hardcore Will Never Die, But You Will"), and Cut Copy ("Zonoscope") and you have a nice few hours of variety.

Discovery: White Sea

You might be a reader of this blog because it may lead you to discovering new music. I mean, that is why I read the blogs I subscribe to. I'm always on the lookout for that new artist or one I just missed out on. So, in an effort to get the word out, please enjoy White Sea. Below is a new music video "Mountaineer" from their EP "This Frontier". Singer Morgan Kibby was vocalist/keyboardist for M83 (I played a few from M83's album, Saturdays=Youth. It was #1 on Billboard's Heatseeker Albums, #4 on Billboard's Dance/Electronic Albums and hailed as one of the best 100 albums of the decade).
Watch it here, or better yet, watch it on Youtube and give 'em a thumbs-up.

Repost and Worth It

I already posted this, but I used a Youtube video here on the blog. I prefer to use Soundcloud, so here you go! I love this song. I think it's as much the vocals as the music in this case. I am reminded of Ronny Moorings (Clan of Xymox) for some reason.

2 Hearts by digitalism_official

And check out this dubstep remix, posted minutes ago by @th0rmusic
2 Hearts (Th0r Remix) by th0rmusic

More Shoegazing: Soft

Here's another excellent band that just shines among imitators. A group can just "sound like x band from x year in the x decade". Then there are the bands that assemble a more distinctive, identifiable mood.
That's why I am diggin' Soft. They update that early 90's sound and you get the feel of new with the satisfaction of nostalgia. Gotta say, they remind me of The Pernice Brothers, and that, for me, is a f*cking great band to be compared to.

Dogs by SoftBand

Soft "Dogs" is out now. Produced by Chris Coady (Beach House, Grizzly Bear, TV on The Radio, Blonde Redhead). Mixed by Rick Parker (Black Rebel Motorcycle Club).
Soft on iTunes
Soft on Facebook
Soft on Twitter

Brilliant new Digitalism Track "2 Hearts" for free

You can get this one for free from rcrdlbl.com (I think you need a free account now to download .mp3s). Do sign-up. Every-day: excellent, free music.
This track is just brilliant!

My Coachella Mini-Wrap-Up

Wow, a week since last post! The Coachella Music Festival took up much of my on-line time, so there's a partial excuse. I have to say, I was underwhelmed with this year's line-up. No huge acts that I had to see. Duran Duran recently did a web-cast. I guess the Big Audio Dynamite show was the headliner for me. I did enjoy Cold Cave (they would have been better at night, not in the friggin' sun). I thought Best Coast was good live, but I think all their songs sound the same. I know that is the worst sort of thing to say, but sometimes, such a dumb statement actually fits. I really, really don't get what all the fuss is over this band. Really bland stuff. I think they have potential, they just need to get more loose. MEN was little bit of a let-down. Cool to see live, but the music was lacking. The guitarist was really the best part of that performance. I need to look into his work.
The Drums played a great show on day one. I hope they earned new fans. The band that really did something different and just made me more interested was HEALTH. I thought of the early work of Cranes for some reason (feedback, big drums, droning sound?).
Things have certainly changed in Indio / Coachella. I lived there 1981-1991.

It Doesn't Always Work

Now, you know I don't make a habit of writing bad things about bands or tracks or remixes or films or family or presidents or run-on-sentences... but, I do adore Passion Pit and can find a warm spot in my heart for The Beastie Boys. This, however, is one of the times I cannot be nice:
1077 The End - Beastie Boys - Make Some Noise (Passion Pit Remix) by 1077 The End
Terrible, on both ends.
On a happy note, it's a Happy Birthday to friend and DJ Barbara! Can't think of anyone with a better ear for music than her! She's recovering privately from serious health issues, so I can't provide any links at this time. We expect a triumphant return soon.

Love Comes Close

With the release of new material, I am re-visiting the last album by Cold Cave. I thought I should share a bit of it with you. For fans of Joy Division / Ian Curtis / New Order and the many bands so inspired. I find it to be insane how many acts are capturing what was "old" music when I was a kid. By "old", I meant anything I was too young to listen to when it came out. Mind you, I was in high school 1985-1989, so even Joy Division was "old" or the older goth's music. I felt I was too young to be a part of it, even though it was recorded a scant 5-6 years before I was a fan. Now, I allow myself a good ten-year window to consider myself an original fan.

Sharing Something New

A nice (folk pop?, a genre I don't play too much) one from Lord Huron. Remixed by White Sea, the new project by Morgan Kibby (The Romanovs, and she played keys for M83 on "Saturdays = Youth").

As heard on Like Sugar PopCast 37: Det Vackra Livet "Viljan"

As heard on Like Sugar PopCast 37: Det Vackra Livet "Viljan".
If you are reading this on Tuesday, April 5, a reminder: new Slicing Up Eyeballs show on Strangeways Radio at 10 EST tonight at http://su.pr/21zK0K

Rrrrround 2 with that one band (free, legal song too)!

Well, this is ironic... this band's label flags me for copyrighted material and now we have them offering a free song... Dare I post this legal, freely distributed .mp3? Will I, once again, get a warning from Blogger for posting a legal offering? Let's see!
Great song at any rate.

Like Sugar PopCast 37 Track-list

Here's what I played. Download it here.
Intro - W a v e I n H e a d - "Zeit Zu Leben (Outro)"
01 - M e l o d y C l u b - "The Hunter"
02 - T h e N a k e d and F a m o u s - "Punching In A Dream"
03 - C o l d W a r K i d s - "Mine Is Yours (Passion Pit Remix)"
Blabber - D a f t P u n k - "Recognizer" in background
04 - S h e W a n t s R e v e n g e - "Take The World"
05 - D e t V a c k r a L i v e t - "Viljan"
06 - E c h o and The B u n n e y m e n vs. U. N. K. L. E. - "Follow Me Down To The Killing Moon (BRAT Mashup)"
07 - T h e R a v o n e t t e s - "Forget That You're Young"
Blabber - The Cure - "Dressing Up" in background
08 - T w i n S h a d o w - "Slow"
09 - J o y D i v i s i o n - "She's Lost Control"
10 - T h e S t i l l s - "Changes Are Good (Grand National Remix)"
11 - M S T R K R F T - "Beards Again"
12 - C o l o r Theory - "Two"
13 - L a d y t r on - "Az Of Hz (Punks Jump Up Remix)"
14 - N e w Y o u n g P o n y C l u b - "The Optimist"
15 - S t a r s - "Wasted Daylight"
16 - D a t a R o m a n c e - "Beating Records"

Cut Copy remixed by fellow Aussies

Heard this first via the silence is a rhythm too blog...
Need You Now (Architecture in Helsinki Version) by Architecture In Helsinki

I so dig this version... reminds me of some Snog remixes that captured a certain Western film sound. I must agree with Brian Hazard: the vocals are very much O.M.D.

A New Like Sugar Has Spawned

I recorded a new Like Sugar PopCast last Friday. I needed to listen through it before posting the link. I am listening now... so, if my voice-work doesn't prompt me to start all over, this link should be valid for a while. I don't trust myself. I think I got really sloppy at towards the end! I do trust the music to stand-up. In fact, I think this mix has a nice mood to it. Track-list to come in a separate post.
Listen (stream it or download it free via zshare) here.

Please leave me a hello comment if you liked this one or any past ones! Comments fuel me to continue this podcast.
You can email me too: djtalbotlikesugar@gmail.com
I accept all music submissions for consideration at the above address.
Twitter: @djtalbot

16 Volt, Twin Shadow

16 Volt has some preview clips (why not make these short clips embeddable?) from the upcoming album "Beating Dead Horses". Listen on Soundcloud. This is the best sound I have ever heard from E.P. and crew. So looking forward to this CD. Pretty cool to see they are on Metropolis. Release date is May 10th.

I listen to Twin Shadow almost everyday, so I was excited to see they posted this live version of "Slow", recorded at SXSW.

Correspondence

Just read a post from a member of Trembling Blue Stars: "New (and final) TBS 6 track EP "Correspondence": artwork & music sent to the factory today. Expect an orange vinyl 10" with Half-Light & Outside remixed by Robert Hampson available from Elefant Records in May."
I hate to say good-bye. The music of TBS means a lot to me and is the soundtrack to a certain time in my life. Oddly, I found their music by accident and I held it close to my heart, not sharing it, not screaming about it to friends. It was something I wanted to enjoy alone. I looked a little deeper into the band and discovered that I crossed paths with one of the beautiful voices in this act. After this discovery, I developed a deeper emotional attachment to the music. It's all in my head, mind you. Still, this fleeting attachment makes every word and note more personal.

Haberdashery = Synthpop I LOVE

*Double-post* (say it like "Head-shot")
Wow, this synthpop act has prompted me to do an Immediate Post. This band is like that missing puzzle piece that you never expected to fit... you try it randomly, out of frustration, and *bam*, it fits! I wonder how I missed this. Am I late to the party? Oh well, please listen and thank the stars such beauty in electronic music is still out there for us.
Haberdasheryinfo.com Player by Haberdashery

The Pains of Being Pure at Heart - Belong LP stream

Stream all of the new LP "Belong" (due out March 29th on Slumberland Records)
Latest tracks by thepainsofbeingpure

USA:
Pre-Order Vinyl LP with Free MP3 Download @ Insound

UK/EU:
Pre-Order Vinyl w/ Mp3 Download or CD @ Rough Trade

Updated US Tour Dates w/ Twin Shadow (wish I could see these two bands together!)