Jagjauguar has announced that both Bon Iver records have been certified Gold on the same day [500,000 sales]. For Emma came out in 2008 and Bon Iver was released in 2011. Congrats to the band and everyone working on these projects, it's a huge accomplishment.
* This week I've spent a lot of time with the new Citizen Cope record. Over the years I've become a big fan of Clarence's music - a groove, lyrics and melody. On this record he seems to be channeling a little bit of Jack Johnson's vibe and it seems to work. I was listening to this back to back with the new Nickodemus record and thought it might be interesting to hear a Citizen Cope/Thievery Corporation collaboration one day. Anyway, my favorite track from the new record is "Something To Believe In":
* Old Crow Medicine Show's new record is doing really well on the charts [debut at #22 on Billboard]. "Carry Me Back" was produced by Ted Hutt (Gaslight Anthem, Dropkick Murphys, Flogging Molly).
* Old 97s are releasing an expanded 15th anniversary edition of "Too Far To Care" [Omnivore Recordings]
* Jade Tree is re-issuing the entire Pedro The Lion collection on vinyl
I recently came across the loudlooppress website and their 11 Chicago Bands to watch in 2011 List. I think Richard and his staff are doing a great job covering the indie scene from Chicago's perspective and I think its a much needed resource. If you're interested in what's going on Chicago's scene check it out.
In addition to the list.. they put together this awesome compilation so we can all hear these bands.
Australia's finest, Washington, has taken home the prestigious title of Breakthrough Songwriter Of The Year at the 2011 APRA (Australasian Performing Right Association) Awards. The APRA award comes hot off the heels of her 2010 ARIA Awards wins for Breakthough Artist andBest Female Artist as well as three nominations for Album of the Year, Best Adult Alternative Album for I Believe You Liar and Single of the Year (How to Tame Lions).
Currently making waves in America with her debut How To Tame Lions EP, the up and coming singer is already being deemed "Australia's best kept secret" by NYLON Magazine and is a featured artist on Yahoo!'s "New Now Next" program. Featuring the title track to the EP, How To Tame Lions as well as the upbeat smash Sunday Best, these tunes are just a taste of what's to come on her debut album, I Believe You Liar, out October 11th, 2011.