Friday, August 31, 2018
The The's documentary 'The Inertia Variations' to screen in North America
The The launch the North American leg of their Comeback Special September 14th in Boston. The highly anticipated tour will be the first set of North American shows in 18 years. Besides the incredible life-affirming experience of seeing Matt Johnson performing live, The The fans in North America have something else to look forward to. Though full details haven't been announced yet, Johnson revealed in a new interview with Steve Baltin of Forbes that in addition to the live shows, the documentary The Inertia Variations will be screened in each city on the North American tour on the night before the show:
"It's called The Inertia Variations and there are screenings of this film accompanying every date of the tour. It will be in cinemas the night before each of the shows. It's a Swedish documentary and this film tells the story of why I quit music and why I came back. So I'd say this is essential viewing for everyone coming to the shows. We're about to announce on our newsletter the details of the screenings, but you could just say they will be in each city the night before the concerts. And they are essential viewing to explain why I quit music and why I came back."
UPDATE (9/9): Info/links for screenings:
The Inertia Variations - North American screenings
Sep 13 -- Boston, MA @ House Of Blues
Sep 18 -- Toronto, ON @ The Revue Cinema
Sep 20 -- Detroit, MI @ Cinema Detroit
Sep 21 -- Chicago, IL @ Logan Theater
Sep 23 -- Los Angeles, CA @ The Masonic Lodge (and Q & A with Matt Johnson)
Sep 27 -- San Francisco, CA @ The Masonic
In the Forbes piece, Johnson also talks about many songs in The The's catalog remain relevant, in particular "This Is The Day"
"Luckily I don't get tired of singing that because as I get older it seems to have more relevance. And that was a strange song for a 21-year-old to write. It was a song full of yearning, sentimentality and a sweet sadness, yet a vain of optimism. That song, I think has aged well. And "This Is The Night" still feels relevant, that's a much darker song. "Beyond Love," I've changed the music on that because I was never fully happy with the music on "Beyond Love." And I think that's quite a timeless lyric, that is really a metaphysical yearning. And "Bugle Boy," which I wrote when I was even younger, I was surprised to find it still felt fresh and vital for me."
In the interview Johnson also talks Dusk, songs that have had an impact on him, taking a break from music, and more. Read the full fascinating interview with Matt Johnson over at Forbes.
The The - North American tour
Sep 14 -- Boston, MA @ Orpheum Theatre
Sep 16 -- Brooklyn, NY @ Brooklyn Steel
Sep 17 -- New York, NY @ Beacon Theatre
Sep 19 -- Toronto, ON @ Sony Centre For The Performing Arts
Sep 21 -- Royal Oak, MI @ Royal Oak Music Theatre
Sep 22 -- Chicago, IL @ Riviera Theatre
Sep 24 -- Los Angeles, CA @ Ford Theatre
Sep 25 -- Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Palladium
Sep 27 -- San Francisco, CA @ The Masonic
Published August 31st, 2018
4AD reissue This Mortal Coil's backcatalog
This Mortal Coil's backcatalog will be reissued by 4AD on October 26th. This Mortal Coil was a timeless and elegant studio project organized by Ivo Watts-Russell and featured contributions from 4AD heavyweights and musical luminaries including Cocteau Twins, Dead Can Dance, Kim Deal, Tanya Donelley, Alison Limerick, Howard Devoto, John Fryer, and more. Over the span of eight years (1983 - 1991) This Mortal Coil released three brilliant atmospheric albums: It'll End In Tears, Filigree & Shadow, and Blood.
The three albums have been newly remastered from the original analogue tapes and feature new artwork by Vaughan Oliver. Each album will be released individually on vinyl and CD. Note: these albums were previously issued on CD in 2011, however these new 2018 editions employ Ultimate High Quality Compact Disc technology rather than High Definition Compatible Digital.
View the pre-order info here.
It'll End In Tears
01. Kangaroo
02. Song To The Siren
03. Holocaust
04. FYT
05. Fond Affections
06. The Last Day
07. Another Day
08. Waves Become Wings
09. Barramundi
10. Dreams Made Flesh
11. Not Me
12. A Single Wish
Filigree & Shadow
01. Velvet Belly
02. The Jeweller
03. Ivy And Neet
04. Meniscus
05. Tears
06. Tarantula
07. My Father
08. Come Here My Love
09. At First, And Then
10. Strength Of Strings
11. Morning Glory
12. Inch Blue
13. I Want To Live
14. Mama KI
15. Filigree And Shadow
16. Firebrothers
17. Thais I
18. I Must Have Been Blind
19. A Heart Of Glass
20. Alone
21. Mama KII
22. The Horizon Bleeds And Sucks Its Thumb
23. Drugs
24. Red Rain
25. Thais II
Blood
01. The Lacemaker
02. Mr. Somewhere
03. Andialu
04. With Tomorrow
05. Loose Joints
06. You And Your Sister
07. Nature's Way
08. I Come And Stand At Every Door
09. Bitter
10. Baby Ray Baby
11. Several Times
12. The Lacemaker II
13. Late Night
14. Ruddy And Wretched
15. Help Me Lift You Up
16. Carolyn's Song
17. D.D. And E.
18. 'Til I Gain Control Again
19. Dreams Are Like Water
20. I Am The Cosmos
21. (Nothing But) Blood
Published August 31st, 2018
Yaz announce 'Three Pieces' CD compendium
As previously reported Yaz (aka Yazoo) will release their backcatalog on vinyl and CD in the fall.
Four Pieces was originally announced as a vinyl set collecting the duo's two studio albums, Upstairs At Eric's and You and Me Both, along with a remix LP Eight Remixes, and a previously unreleased compilation with BBC sessions. Days after the LP announcement Yaz confirmed that due to an outpouring of fan requests they agreed to release the collection on CD format.
Yaz have now announced details for the CD edition of the compendium. Three Pieces comes as a three disc set packaged inside a hardback book and features a 32 page booklet with lyrics and photographs. The tracklisting is identical to the vinyl edition.
Four Pieces (the vinyl edition) arrives October 26th; Three Pieces (the CD edition) arrives November 2nd. View all the pre-order options (including a CD/LP deluxe edition) here.
Stream two previously unreleased tracks from Four Pieces/Three Pieces and view the tracklisting for the CD edition below:
Disc 1: Upstairs At Eric's
01. Don't Go
02. Too Pieces
03. Bad Connection
04. I Before E Except After C
05. Midnight
06. In My Room
07. Only You
08. Goodbye 70's
09. Tuesday
10. Winter Kills
11. Bring Your Love Down (Didn't I)
Disc 2: You And Me Both
01. Nobody's Diary
02. Softly Over
03. Sweet Thing
04. Mr. Blue
05. Good Times
06. Walk Away From Love
07. Ode To Boy
08. Unmarked
09. Anyone
10. Happy People
11. And On
Disc 3: Eight Remixes & Two BBC Sessions
01. Nobody's Diary - Extended Version
02. Situation - Richard X Remix
03. Don't Go - Remix
04. Only You - Orchestral Mix
05. Situation - The Aggressive Attitude Mix (Youth)
06. Don't Go - Tee's TNT Radio Mix (Toddy Terry)
07. State Farm - Madhouse Mix Edit
08. Winter Kills - Minute Taker Remix
09. Don't Go [John Peel BBC Session, June 1982]
10. Midnight [John Peel BBC Session, June 1982]
11. In My Room [John Peel BBC Session, June 1982]
12. Winter Kills [John Peel BBC Session, June 1982]
13. Bring Your Love Down (Didn't I) [David Jensen BBC Session, September 1982]
14. In My Room [David Jensen BBC Session, Sept 1982]
15. Situation [David Jensen BBC Session, Sept 1982]
16. Too Pieces [David Jensen BBC Session, Sept 1982]
Published August 31st, 2018
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds share "The Mercy Seat" from live EP 'Distant Sky'
As previously reported Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds will release a live EP on September 28th. The Distant Sky - Live In Copenhagen EP was captured at Copenhagen's Royal Arena in October of 2017. The full Copenhagen concert screened in theaters worldwide in April, but due to popular demand four songs from the show will be released on the EP. Distant Sky will be released on 12" vinyl and as a digital EP on September 28th with pre-orders opening July 9th.
This week Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds premiered the live footage of "The Mercy Seat" in promotion of the EP's release. Check it out below and pre-order Distant Sky - Live In Copenhagen here.
Published August 31st, 2018
Dinosaur Jr co-headline tour w/ Mastodon canceled; new Dinosaur Jr dates announced
Yesterday Dinosaur Jr announced that their co-headline tour with Mastodon has been canceled due to an issue with "a member of the Mastodon family." Since the issue doesn't involve Dinosaur Jr, the band were able to scheduled some intimate headline shows in the affected cities. New headline DINOSAUR JR dates are posted below:
Newly announced Dinosaur Jr dates
Sep 10 -- Maquoketa, IA @ Codfish Hollow
Sep 11 -- Milwaukee, WI @ Turner Hall Ballroom
Sep 12 -- Cleveland, OH @ Grog Shop
Sep 14 -- Fort Wayne, IN @ Clyde Theatre
Sep 15 -- Grand Rapids, MI @ Elevation
Sep 16 -- Toronto, ON @ Opera House
Sep 18 -- Hamden, CT @ Space Ballroom
Sep 19 -- Jersey City, NJ @ White Eagle Hall
Sep 20 -- Port Chester, NY @ Garcia's/Capitol Theatre
Sep 21 -- Washington, DC @ Black Cat
Sep 22 -- Marengo, OH @ Dragon Saddle Day Festival
List of canceled Dinosaur Jr/Mastodon dates:
Aug 31 -- Missoula, MT @ The Wilma
Sep 01 -- Edmonton, AB @ North Alberta Jubilee Auditorium
Sep 02 -- Calgary, AB @ Grey Eagle Events Centre
Sep 04 -- Saskatoon, SK @ O'Briens Event Centre
Sep 06 -- Winnepeg, MB @ Burton Cummings Theatre
Sep 07 -- Duluth, MN @ Duluth Heritage Center
Sep 08 -- Sioux City, IA @ Anthem at Hard Rock Sioux
Sep 11 -- Milwaukee, WI @ The Eagles Ballroom
Sep 12 -- Cleveland, OH @ The Agora Theater
Sep 14 -- Fort Wayne, IN @ Clyde Theater
Sep 15 -- Grand Rapids, MI @ 20 Monroe Live
Sep 16 -- London, ON @ London Concert Theatre
Sep 17 -- Kitchener, ON @ Elements
Sep 19 -- Hamilton, ON @ FirstOntario Concert Hall
Sep 20 -- Port Chester, NY @ Capitol Theater
Sep 21 -- Silver Spring, MD @ The Filmore
Last week J Mascis announced details for a solo tour of North America in support of a new solo album Elastic Days. Mascis' solo dates are NOT affected and will go on as planned.
J Mascis - solo tour
Nov 07 -- Vancouver, BC @ Imperial
Nov 08 -- Portland, OR @ Aladdin Theater
Nov 09 -- Seattle, WA @ Tractor Tavern
Nov 10 -- Bellingham, WA @ Wild Buffalo House Of Music
Nov 14 -- San Francisco, CA @ Slim's
Nov 15 -- San Diego, CA @ Soda Bar
Nov 16 -- Los Angeles, CA @ Lodge Room
Nov 17 -- Denver, CO @ Ophelia's Electric Soapbox
Nov 18 -- Fort Collins, CO @ Washington's
Nov 20 -- Chicago, IL @ City Winery
Nov 21 -- Chicago, IL @ City Winery
Nov 27 -- Atlanta, GA @ City Winery
Nov 28 -- Nashville, TN @ City Winery
Nov 29 -- Louisville, KY @ Zanzabar
Nov 30 -- Detroit, MI @ El Club
Dec 01 -- Toronto, ON @ The Great Hall
Dec 04 -- Philadelphia, PA @ World Cafe Live
Dec 05 -- Washington, DC @ City Winery
Dec 07 -- Brooklyn, NY @ Rough Trade
Dec 08 -- New York, NY @ Public Arts
Dec 09 -- Hamden, CT @ Space Ballroom
Dec 12 -- Pawtucket, RI @ The Met
Dec 13 -- Cambridge, MA @ The Sinclair
Dec 14 -- Northampton, MA @ Academy Of Music
Dec 15 -- Portland, ME @ Port City Music Hall
Published August 31st, 2018
Wednesday, August 29, 2018
Video: New Order live in North America
New Order have been on tour in North America for the last week and have proven to be in very fine form. New Order remain on top of their game and Bernard Sumner in particular appears to be having the time of his life. Check out brilliant and scintillating high quality footage from last night's show at Anthem in Washington DC below courtesy of Jim Powers and Roberto Chang.
The videos below contain flashing lights; viewer discretion advised for those with photosensitivity.
New Order - setlist
Singularity
Regret
Crystal
Love Vigilantes
Your Silent Face
Superheated
Tutti Frutti
Subculture
Bizarre Love Triangle
Vanishing Point
Waiting For The Sirens' Call
Plastic
The Perfect Kiss
True Faith
Blue Monday
Temptation
Atmosphere
She's Lost Control
Love Will Tear Us Apart
Published August 29th, 2018
Tuesday, August 28, 2018
Hum's Matt Talbott planning solo tour
Matt Talbott of Hum is heading out on the road later this year for a series of living room shows. According to Talbott, his friends at Undertow have been trying to get him to play some intimate low key shows for some time and though he's been intrigued by the concept he's declined the opportunity. However a few weeks ago Talbott gave it a go and performed an intimate five song set (including a new song!) to see what it was like and how it felt. He revealed afterwards that he was exhilarated by the experience:
"I was so nervous when I started I could barely get my shaking hands onto the guitar and could hardly make an utterance with my voice. But onward we went, me and my roomful of friends, and it became something beautiful that I felt privileged to be a part of. So many tears. So much joy."
Talbott enjoyed the experience so much, he's decided to hit the road in November for his first solo tour!
"So, if you’re into it, I will pack up my ’99 Saab with my shitty nylon string guitar, my sadness, a few Centaur songs, a few covers, (maybe a reimagined hum song or two) and some new stuff I have written just for this purpose, and I will come to your house and I will absolutely break your heart too. Yours if you want it."
Talbott's Living Room tour will take place in November in cities within a 300 mile radius of Champaign, Illinois. The idea is pretty simple - a fan agrees to host a show for about 40 to 60 people in a private space (living room, basement, etc). The fan hosts; everything else (ticketing, promotion, equipment, sound system, etc) will be handled by Talbott.
Fans interested in hosting a show at their home can read all the details and submit a request here.
The deadline for submission (offering up your space) is Friday, August 31st. Tickets for the tour will go on sale September 14th. More details regarding tickets will be announced once the itinerary is firmed up.
Published August 28th, 2018
Sunday, August 26, 2018
Classic Alternative - Episode #70: Repossession
Presenting Classic Alternative - Episode #70: Repossession
Rock it old school with Time Warp. This week's show includes Echo & The Bunnymen, Psychedelic Furs, Dinosaur Jr, Nirvana, Devo, Velvet Underground, The The, The Wedding Present, Ultra Vivid Scene, The Smiths, and more.
Stream below or here and check out the full archive of episodes here or here.
Music news stories from the week
Echo & The Bunnymen premiere new music off The Stars, The Oceans & The Moon
Joe Strummer's widow talks Joe Strummer 001 + Strummer's legacy
Free download: Cocksure premiere "Yellow Dog"
New anthology inspired by Joy Division's Unknown Pleasures
J Mascis announces new solo LP + tour
Yaz premiere previously unreleased "Situation" remix
Primal Scream releasing lost recording session from 1993
Robert Smith talks Meltdown in new video interview
Teenage Fanclub announce departure of founding member Gerard Love
Thursday, August 23, 2018
Echo & The Bunnymen premiere new song "The Somnambulist"
Echo & The Bunnymen release their new album The Stars, The Oceans & The Moon on October 5th. Though the album mostly includes reworked orchestral versions of classic Echo songs (minus drums out of respect to late drummer Pete de Freitas) they've also included two brand new songs. Today they've officially unveiled the studio version of one of the new songs which is titled "The Somnambulist." Stream it below along with the previously issued stripped down version of "Seven Seas."
Pre-order The Stars, The Oceans & The Moon here and view the album tracklisting and itinerary for their upcoming North American tour below:
Echo & The Bunnymen - North American tour
Nov 17 -- Toronto, ON @ Queen Elizabeth Theatre
Nov 19 -- Northampton, MA @ Calvin Theatre
Nov 20 -- Boston, MA @ Orpheum Theatre
Nov 21 -- New York, NY @ Town Hall Theatre
Nov 23 -- Detroit, MI @ Fillmore Detroit
Nov 24 -- Chicago, IL @ Vic Theatre
Nov 26 -- Denver, CO @ Paramount Theatre
Nov 27 -- Salt Lake City, UT @ Union Event Center
Nov 29 -- Seattle, WA @ Moore Theatre
Nov 30 -- Portland, OR @ Revolution Hall
Dec 01 -- Eugene, OR @ McDonald Theatre
Dec 03 -- San Francisco, CA @ The Masonic
Dec 04 -- Los Angeles, CA @ The Cathedral Sanctuary/Immanuel Presbyterian Church
Published August 23rd, 2018
Joe Strummer's widow talks Strummer's legacy + forthcoming compilation '001'
In remembrance of Joe Strummer's birthday (August 21st), his widow Lucinda Tait appeared on BBC Radio Wales to discuss Strummer's legacy, how the compilation Joe Strummer 001 came together, and more.
Tait revealed that Strummer had a lot of writings/lyrics/songs stored in plastic bags inside two chests located in a farmhouse which were mostly untouched for years. Since the open-barn farmhouse was exposed to the outdoors and various elements and Tait became concerned the material inside, which she initially thought was just lyrics and writings, would be destroyed so she brought it all inside. To her surprise and delight, along with Strummer's writings and lyrics were tapes and tapes -- reel to reel, cassettes, DATs and more -- full of music and song ideas!
Once she realized what she had, Tait went about getting in touch Strummer's friend and Clash archivist Gordon McHarg III and together they decided this material needed to be seen and heard. McHarg eventually contacted digital archivist Martin Bradley in Ireland and remastering guru Peter Moore in Toronto to create the forthcoming compilation Joe Strummer 001 which features 32 songs from the archive.
Besides 001, fans have even more to look forward to in the future. Tait said there is "more to come" essentially confirming that they plan on releasing another compilation of Strummer's archival material at some point.
Tait believes Strummer's legacy is essentially teaching others that music is empowering -- even in his death Strummer has inspired and encouraged people to question authority and with that power, people have the ability to change anything.
The fascinating segment with Tait also features the previously unreleased tracks "London Is Burning" (Strummer's raw version), "Rose Of Erin," and "It's A Rockin' World" and is available to stream here (begins ~ 1:11:20).
Pre-order Joe Strummer 001 here and view a new video montage of previously unseen footage and unreleased music in celebration of Joe Strummer below.
Published August 23rd, 2018
The Cure announce pair of 2019 dates
The Cure announced their first dates for 2019 -- they'll play South Africa for the first time next March. The band will headline the Rock On The Lawns Festival in Carnival City on March 16th, then play Kenilworth Race Course on March 21st.
Robert Smith told the BBC earlier this year that he's hoping to take The Cure on the road for some anniversary shows in 2019 and they might also do something special for the 30th anniversary of Disintegration. Beware: Smith is notorious for not quite always living up to his promises, but it's fantastic to see The Cure announce at least a few dates for 2019. Stay tuned.
While you're here, enjoy a full Cure show from 1984.
Published August 23rd, 2018
Wednesday, August 22, 2018
Free download: Cocksure unveil "Yellow Dog" off forthcoming LP 'Be Rich'
Cocksure featuring Wax Trax! veteran Chris Connelly and Jason Novak release a full length album Be Rich on September 7th. The rhythmic-industrial duo unleashed a funky and delicious new single from the album today titled "Yellow Dog." Stream the edit of "Yellow Dog" below and grab a free download (name your own price). Pre-order Be Rich from Bandcamp.
Cocksure are playing all three dates of Coldwaves Festival next month along with Front Line Assembly, Ohgr, Actors, and many more. Get all the details on Coldwaves here.
Published August 22nd, 2018
Tuesday, August 21, 2018
New anthology inspired by Joy Division's 'Unknown Pleasures'
A new book collecting short stories inspired by Joy Division's seminal album Unknown Pleasures will be released September 6th. We Were Strangers: Stories Inspired By Unknown Pleasures is a 173 page book featuring 10 short stories - each story takes its title and inspiration from a song on the classic album. Readers should expect "tales of isolation and anxiety, but also ecstasy and otherworldly adventure."
We Were Strangers: Stories Inspired By Unknown Pleasures was edited by Richard V. Hirst and includes contributions by Jenn Ashworth, Anne Billson, David Gaffney, Jessie Greengrass, Zoe Lambert, Toby Litt, Sophie Mackintosh, Louise Marr, Nicholas Royle, and Eley Williams.
Pre-order We Were Strangers: Stories Inspired By Unknown Pleasures here.
The book's publisher Confingo is holding a launch event celebration in Manchester on September 14th. Details on that are posted here.
Published August 21st, 2018
J Mascis announces new LP 'Elastic Days' + North American tour
J Mascis has announced he'll release a new solo album titled Elastic Days on November 9th. Mascis premiered the first song from the album "See You At The Movies" today (stream below) and opened up pre-orders for the 12 track album. The album will be released on vinyl and CD, plus a variety of bundles are also available which you can check out here.
Mascis will be hitting the road on a solo tour in support of the record after Dinosaur Jr's fall tour wraps up. The solo tour includes a stop at El Club in Detroit on November 30th - tickets go on sale this Friday, August 24th. Dinosaur Jr kick off their North American tour at St. Andrew's Hall in Detroit on August 27th.
J Mascis - Elastic Days
01. See You At The Movies
02. Web So Dense
03. I Went Dust
04. Sky Is All We Had
05. Picking Out The Seeds
06. Give It Off
07. Drop Me
08. Cut Stranger
09. Elastic Days
10. Sometimes
11. Wanted You Around
12. Everything She Said
J Mascis - solo tour
Nov 07 -- Vancouver, BC @ Imperial
Nov 08 -- Portland, OR @ Aladdin Theater
Nov 09 -- Seattle, WA @ Tractor Tavern
Nov 10 -- Bellingham, WA @ Wild Buffalo House Of Music
Nov 14 -- San Francisco, CA @ Slim's
Nov 15 -- San Diego, CA @ Soda Bar
Nov 16 -- Los Angeles, CA @ Lodge Room
Nov 17 -- Denver, CO @ Ophelia's Electric Soapbox
Nov 18 -- Fort Collins, CO @ Washington's
Nov 20 -- Chicago, IL @ City Winery
Nov 21 -- Chicago, IL @ City Winery
Nov 27 -- Atlanta, GA @ City Winery
Nov 28 -- Nashville, TN @ City Winery
Nov 29 -- Louisville, KY @ Zanzabar
Nov 30 -- Detroit, MI @ El Club
Dec 01 -- Toronto, ON @ The Great Hall
Dec 04 -- Philadelphia, PA @ World Cafe Live
Dec 05 -- Washington, DC @ City Winery
Dec 07 -- Brooklyn, NY @ Rough Trade
Dec 08 -- New York, NY @ Public Arts
Dec 09 -- Hamden, CT @ Space Ballroom
Dec 12 -- Pawtucket, RI @ The Met
Dec 13 -- Cambridge, MA @ The Sinclair
Dec 14 -- Northampton, MA @ Academy Of Music
Dec 15 -- Portland, ME @ Port City Music Hall
Dinosaur Jr - tour
Aug 27 -- Detroit, MI @ St. Andrew's Hall
Aug 29 -- Minneapolis, MN @ First Avenue
Aug 31 -- Missoula, MT @ The Wilma
Dinosaur Jr w/ Mastodon
Sep 01 -- Edmonton, AB @ North Alberta Jubilee Auditorium
Sep 02 -- Calgary, AB @ Grey Eagle Events Centre
Sep 04 -- Saskatoon, SK @ O'Briens Event Centre
Sep 06 -- Winnepeg, MB @ Burton Cummings Theatre
Sep 07 -- Duluth, MN @ Duluth Heritage Center
Sep 08 -- Sioux City, IA @ Anthem at Hard Rock Sioux
Sep 11 -- Milwaukee, WI @ The Eagles Ballroom
Sep 12 -- Cleveland, OH @ The Agora Theater
Sep 14 -- Fort Wayne, IN @ Clyde Theater
Sep 15 -- Grand Rapids, MI @ 20 Monroe Live
Sep 16 -- London, ON @ London Concert Theatre
Sep 17 -- Kitchener, ON @ Elements
Sep 19 -- Hamilton, ON @ FirstOntario Concert Hall
Published August 21st, 2018
Yazoo (aka Yaz) premiere previously unreleased "Situation" remix
In July Yaz/Yazoo announced on October 26th they'll release a four piece deluxe set Four Pieces collecting their two studio albums Upstairs At Eric's and You and Me Both, along with a remix LP Eight Remixes, and a previously unreleased compilation with BBC sessions. Along with the announcement Yaz unveiled the unreleased version of "Don't Go" taken from the band's 1982 BBC session, and opened up vinyl pre-orders. Today they've premiered another track from Four Pieces - the previously unreleased Richard X remix of the dancefloor anthem "Situation." Stream below:
Pre-order the vinyl edition of Four Pieces here or here. Due to fan demand Yaz announced that a CD edition of Four Pieces with identical tracklisting will also be released. Because only a vinyl set was originally planned the band are still working out the details/artwork/pre-order info, and those details will be announced shortly.
LP1 – Upstairs At Eric's
Side A
1. Don’t Go
2. Too Pieces
3. Bad Connection
4. I Before E Except After C
5. Midnight
6. In My Room
Side B
1. Only You
2. Goodbye 70’s
3. Tuesday
4. Winter Kills
5. Bring Your Love Down (Didn’t I)
LP2 – You And Me Both
Side A
1. Nobody’s Diary
2. Softly Over
3. Sweet Thing
4. Mr Blue
5. Good Times
Side B
1. Walk Away from Love
2. Ode to Boy
3. Unmarked
4. Anyone
5. Happy People
6. And On
LP3 – Eight Remixes
Side A
1. Nobody’s Diary – Extended Version
2. Situation – Richard X Remix
3. Don’t Go – Remix
4. Only You – Orchestral Mix
Side B
1. Situation – The Aggressive Attitude Mix
2. Don’t Go – Tee’s TNT Radio Mix
3. State Farm – Madhouse Mix Edit
4. Winter Kills – Minute Taker Remix (Previously Unreleased)
LP4 – Two BBC Sessions
Side A
John Peel, June 1982
1. Don’t Go (Previously Unreleased)
2. Midnight (Previously Unreleased)
3. In My Room (Previously Unreleased)
4. Winter Kills (Previously Unreleased)
Side B
David Jensen, September 1982
1. Bring Your Love Down (Didn’t I)
2. In My Room
3. Situation (Previously Unreleased)
4. Too Pieces (Previously Unreleased)
Published August 21st, 2018
Monday, August 20, 2018
Primal Scream unearth + release lost recording session from 1993
Primal Scream have announced the release of Give Out But Don't Give Up - The Original Memphis Recordings. Back in 1993 the band entered Ardent studios in Memphis and recorded an album with Tom Dowd and the Muscle Shoals rhythm section. The material cut during the session was never released, though the songs were eventually adapted and released on Primal Scream's 1994 album Give Out But Don't Give Up. The versions from the previously unreleased recording session are said to showcase more of a Southern rock & roll vibe and are "Primal Scream as you've never heard them before."
Primal Scream guitarist Andrew Innes recently discovered the tapes in his basement and the band decided to release the session material, which includes full songs, improvisational jams, monitor mixes, and more. The release arrives October 12th on 2CD, 2LP, or both (2 CD + 2LP). Check out the tracklisting below and pre-order here.
Give Out But Don't Give Up - The Original Memphis Recordings
01. Jailbird
02. Rocks
03. Call On Me
04. Everybody Needs Somebody
05. Sad And Blue
06. Big Jet Plane
07. Free
08. Jesus
09. (I'm Gonna) Cry Myself Blind
01. Billy / To Love Somebody
02. Memphis Groove (Improvised Song Jam)
03. Sad And Blue (Early Rehearsal Jam)
04. Blue Moon Of Kentucky / Trying To Get To You
05. Big Jet Plane (Early Rehearsal Jam / Tom Dowd Instructions)
06. Free (Bobby Vocal / Full Band Rehearsal Jam)
07. Everybody Needs Somebody (Alternative Recording)
08. Country Guitar
09. Jailbird Guitar
10. Jesus (Monitor Mix)
11. Funky Jam (Original Recording)
12. Free (Early Rehearsal Sitar /Piano / Bobby Vocal)
13. Call On Me (Monitor Mix)
14. Cry Myself Blind (Monitor Mix)
15. All I Have To Do Is Dream
Published August 20th, 2018
Robert Smith talks Meltdown in video interview
A short video interview with Robert Smith talking about Meltdown is available to view below. Smith curated this year's edition of the festival and revealed that it was "one of the most rewarding experiences" he's had and it gave him an opportunity to listen to more new music than he has in years.
The ever-humble Smith also dismissed the idea of being considered a legend saying "it doesn't feel right" and that performing old Cure songs transports him back in time.
Check out the video below:
Published August 20th, 2018
Teenage Fanclub announce departure of founding member Gerard Love
Teenage Fanclub issued a statement today to announce a Japanese + Australian tour, but more importantly to reveal that longtime bassist Gerard Love is leaving the band. Love was a founding member of TFC and has been with the band throughout its 29 year history. According to the official statement, Love is leaving due to "unresolvable difference of opinion" and conflict over touring plans. The band have made it clear they intend to proceed without Love. His last show with Teenage Fanclub will be November 15th at the Electric Ballroom in London.
Teenage Fanclub recently reissued five albums -- their Creation output -- on vinyl and are available here. The band will be celebrating their beloved 90s era with a series of shows this fall by performing three consecutive nights in each city with each night focusing on a different TFC era.
View the official statement from Teenage Fanclub below:
We are pleased to announce that we will be returning to Japan and Australia in 2019, and will also be visiting Hong Kong and New Zealand for the first time.
Feb 01: The Vine, Hong Kong | Feb 04: Zepp Diver City, Tokyo
Feb 05: Nagoya Club Quattro, Aichi | Feb 06: Umeda Club Quattro, Osaka
Feb 12: Corner Hotel, Melbourne | Feb 15: Metro Theatre, Sydney
Feb 16: The Triffid, Brisbane | Feb 18: Powerstation, Auckland
In relation to that we have another announcement to make. Gerard Love will not be with the band for these dates, or any other shows beyond those we are playing this year. His last show with the band will be on November 15th at the Electric Ballroom in London. Following discussions within the band going back several months there is a continuing and sadly unresolvable difference of opinion on whether the band should proceed with proposed touring plans, so after that London show Gerry will be separating from the band, and Teenage Fanclub will be continuing without him. The band wish Gerry all the best in his future musical endeavours.
However, all of us are looking forward to the shows we’ll be playing this year, and in particular to making sure the 3-night shows in October and November will be something special. To that end, joining us for those dates will be Brendan O’Hare and Paul Quinn. There are still limited tickets available for some of those dates.
Teenage Fanclub tour
Oct 28 - Glasgow @ ABC
Oct 29 - Glasgow @ ABC
Oct 30 - Glasgow @ ABC
Nov 05 - Manchester @ Academy 3
Nov 06 - Manchester @ Academy 3
Nov 07 - Manchester @ Academy 3
Nov 09 - Birmingham @ Institute
Nov 10 - Birmingham @ Institute
Nov 11 - Birmingham @ Institute
Nov 13 - London @ Electric Ballroom
Nov 14 - London @ Electric Ballroom
Nov 15 - London @ Electric Ballroom
Published August 20th, 2018
Sunday, August 19, 2018
Classic Alternative - Episode #69: Descent
Presenting Classic Alternative - Episode #69: Descent
Rock it old school with Time Warp. This week's show includes The Cure, The Verve, Inspiral Carpets, Afghan Whigs, Siouxsie & The Banshees, Hüsker Dü, Skinny Puppy, Primal Scream, The Church, Jane's Addiction, The Smiths, and more.
Stream below or here and check out the full archive of Time Warp episodes here or here.
Classic Alternative stories from this week:
New Order's iconic Substance turns 31
Wire documentary + new LP in the works
Ultravox announce remix LP Extended
Mike Ness accused of punching man at Social Distortion show
Evil Presidentes unleashes phenomenal post-punk mix
The Velvet Underground Experience set to open in New York
Richard Ashcroft announces new solo LP Natural Rebel
Suede issue new glorious single from The Blue Hour
Stream three songs from Joe Strummer 001
Echo & The Bunnymen announce tour; play Detroit
New Order: Decades chronicles wall-of-synth shows
Thom Yorke announces tour; plays Detroit
Friday, August 17, 2018
New Order's iconic LP 'Substance' turns 31
New Order's iconic album Substance was released 31 years ago today. Typically this website solely celebrates BIG anniversaries (ie years that end in 0's and 5's) however today we make an exception for Substance. This record is a cut above and remains one of the most cherished and influential albums of all time. This is not just opinion. It is indeed fact.
Revisit the Substance tribute which was published on this website one year ago in celebration of the compilation's 30th anniversary, plus stream the 30th anniversary audio tribute below (tribute is about 45 minutes long and begins ~ 3:02:40).
The classic album Substance, released August 17th, 1987, is a superb collection of the band's definitive 12" singles and is an essential piece in New Order's remarkable and distinguished catalog. Substance is an extraordinary album from front to back. It is perfect. There is no filler, there is no "skip" track; everything is in its right place.
The idea for Substance was conceived by Factory kingpin Tony Wilson, who wanted all of New Order's singles on one CD so he could rock out while driving his snazzy new sports car. At that point, none of New Order's singles were available on CD format, and only a couple of songs ("The Perfect Kiss," "Sub-Culture") appeared on their studio albums; (let's be honest here, the versions of "The Perfect Kiss" and "Sub-Culture" that appeared on Low-Life paled in comparison to the 12" versions, and let's not get started on the brutally chopped up versions that appear on various greatest hits collections).
Though most of the versions included on Substance were previously issued, not every track was the original 12" mix: New Order went into the studio in May of 1987 to re-record "Confusion" and "Temptation"; an edited version of "Sub-Culture" appears on all formats; and 40 seconds of "The Perfect Kiss" was edited out for space on CD (the full glorious and epic 12" appears on the LP edition).
One new song appeared on Substance -- "True Faith," which was released as a 12" in July of 1987 backed with the b-side "1963." The iconic video for "True Faith" enjoyed a ton of radio and MTV airplay, and was a massive hit in the U.S. This propelled sales of Substance and earned New Order legions of new and passionate fans.
The CD and some cassette versions of Substance included a bonus disc of material -- Substance Disc 2 -- which collected the b-sides to the 12" singles along with the instrumental "Murder." The disc also includes a legendary "Mesh" tracklisting error which continues to haunt New Order to this day.
"Mesh" and "Cries And Whispers" both appeared as b-sides on 1981's "Everything's Gone Green," but the tracks were listed in the wrong order on some of the 12" editions. Years later the tracklisting error followed New Order onto Substance: "Mesh" was listed as track 3 on Disc 2, however in reality "Cries And Whispers" is the song that really appears as track 3, leading to a whole lot of confusion still to this day.
Substance is peak New Order. New Order have released many seminal, iconic, and influential albums, but no release ever captured the intensity, magic, brilliance, and beauty of New Order quite like Substance. This distinguished record stands alone and is the crown jewel in New Order's illustrious catalog.
Viva Substance!
Wire documentary & new LP in the works; limited copies of 'Nine Sevens' box for sale
Wire announced today that limited quantities of their singles box set Nine Sevens are available to purchase through their webstore. The limited edition box set collects nine 7" singles originally released from 1977 through 1980. Nine Sevens was released this spring for Record Store Day in the U.K. and was a fast mover. Interested fans can obtain a copy here while supplies last.
Wire also revealed that they're creating an official visual documentary celebrating their history. The documentary has been described as "a film about Wire by Wire" and will tell the true story that needs to be told:
"Our feelings are that there is so much bad and inaccurate music-based documentary out there that it makes sense to have something more in tune with the multi-stranded reality of Wire, past and present, than these affairs tend to be. We have enlisted the help of old friends, experienced programme makers, and serious Wire fans Graham Duff and Malcom Boyle."
The project is in the early stages though they will be creating a trailer for the film soon in hopes of attracting financial backing. They're still working on how to finance the film and may opt to launch a Kickstarter (or other crowdfunding) campaign in the future. Wire call the documentary an "ongoing" project and won't be completed for some time.
Lastly, Wire return to the studio in September to record their 17th studio album. The anticipated release date is early 2020.
For more on Wire, catch up with the band here.
Published August 17th, 2018
Ultravox collect 12" mixes for 'Extended' 2CD/4LP set
Ultravox announced they'll release a collection of 12" mixes on November 16th. Extended is a 20 track compilation collecting extended, rare, and hard to find mixes of the band's synthpop classics. The mixes have been newly remastered with vinyl cut from the original analog production masters. Extended will be released as a deluxe 2CD set and four piece limited edition vinyl boxset (comes with a bonus white vinyl 7"). A variety of bundles with t-shirt and other merchandise are also available. View the pre-order options here.
Stream the U.S. extended mix of "Dancing With Tears In My Eyes" from Extended here or enjoy the original (non-remastered) version of the remix below:
Extended - CD tracklist
CD 1:
01. All Stood Still (Extended Version)
02. I Never Wanted To Begin (Extended Version)
03. Reap The Wild Wind (Extended Version)
04. We Came To Dance (Extended Version)
05. One Small Day (Special Re-Mix)
06. One Small Day (Special Re-Mix Extra)
07. White China (Special Re-Mix)
08. Dancing With Tears In My Eyes (Special Re-Mix)
09. Dancing With Tears In My Eyes (US Extended Re-Mix)*
10. One Small Day (US Club Version)*
CD 2:
11. Lament (Extended Version)
12. Heart of The Country (Special Re-Mix)
13. Love's Great Adventure (Extended Version)
14. One Small Day (Final Mix)
15. Serenade (Special Re-Mix)
16. Same Old Story (Extended Version)
17. All Fall Down (Extended Version)
18. Brilliant (Blank & Jones Extended Remix)**
19. Brilliant (Blank & Jones Club Mix)**
20. Brilliant (Blank & Jones US Club Mix)**
Extended - LP tracklist
Side 1:
1. All Stood Still (Extended Version)
2. I Never Wanted To Begin (Extended Version)
3. Reap The Wild Wind (Extended Version)
Side 2:
4. We Came To Dance (Extended Version)
5. One Small Day (Special Re-Mix)
6. One Small Day (Special Re-Mix Extra)
Side 3:
7. White China (Special Re-Mix)
8. Dancing With Tears In My Eyes (Special Re-Mix)
Side 4:
9. Dancing With Tears In My Eyes (US Extended Re-Mix)*
10. One Small Day (US Club Version)*
Side 5:
11. Lament (Extended Version)
12. Heart of The Country (Special Re-Mix)
Side 6:
13. Love's Great Adventure (Extended Version)
14. One Small Day (Final Mix)
15. Serenade (Special Re-Mix)
Side 7:
16. Same Old Story (Extended Version)
17. All Fall Down (Extended Version)
Side 8:
18. Brilliant (Blank & Jones Extended Remix)**
19. Brilliant (Blank & Jones Club Mix)**
20. Brilliant (Blank & Jones US Club Mix)**
Published August 17th, 2018
Thursday, August 16, 2018
Mike Ness accused of punching man at Social Distortion show
Mike Ness has been accused of assaulting a fan (ex-fan?) at Social Distortion's July 17th show in Sacramento. The altercation reportedly began after the concertgoer got annoyed by political comments Ness made between songs. The offended fan, who was somewhat close to the stage, displayed his anger by flipping Ness off for an extended period of time. Ness then took matters into his own hands and allegedly pummeled the fan. The alleged victim claims he suffered a concussion from Ness' beating and will be pressing charges. Read his side of the story here and watch video of the incident in question here.
Social Distortion and Mike Ness have not issued a statement or commented publicly regarding the incident. A police investigation is ongoing.
Social Distortion's Sacramento show was the final date on their summer tour, but they'll be back on the road next month for another leg of North American dates. View the tour itinerary below:
Social Distortion - North American tour
Sep 11 -- Tempe, AZ @ Marquee Theatre
Sep 13 -- Austin, TX @ Stubb's Waller Creek Amphitheatre
Sep 14 -- Dallas, TX @ House Of Blues
Sep 15 -- Houston, TX @ White Oak Music Hall
Sep 18 -- New Orleans, LA @ House Of Blues
Sep 20 -- Orlando, FL @ House Of Blues
Sep 22 -- Athens, GA @ Georgia Theatre
Sep 25 -- Richmond, VA @ The National
Sep 26 -- Norfolk, VA @ The Norva
Sep 28 -- Philadelphia, PA @ Electric Factory
Sep 29 -- Silver Spring, MD @ Fillmore Silver Spring
Sep 30 -- Asbury Park, NJ @ Sea Hear Now
Oct 03 -- Port Chester, NY @ Capitol Theatre
Oct 04 -- Providence, RI @ The Strand Ballroom & Theatre
Oct 05 -- Hampton Beach, NH @ Casino Ballroom
Oct 06 -- Boston, MA @ House Of Blues
Oct 09 -- Montreal, QC @ Mtelus
Oct 10 -- Toronto, ON @ The Danforth Music Hall
Oct 12 -- Detroit, MI @ Fillmore Detroit
Oct 13 -- Grand Rapids, MI @ 20 Monroe Live
Oct 14 -- Greensburg, PA @ The Palace Theatre
Oct 16 -- Buffalo, NY @ Town Ballroom
Oct 19 -- Cincinnati, OH @ Bogart's
Oct 20 -- Indianapolis, IN @ Egyptian Room/Old National Centre
Oct 21 -- Nashville, TN @ Marathon Music Works
Oct 23 -- Memphis, TN @ Minglewood Hall
Oct 24 -- Oklahoma City, OK @ Diamond Ballroom
Oct 26 -- Las Vegas, NV @ Brooklyn Bowl
Published August 16th, 2018
Evil Presidentes unleashes phenomenal post-punk mix
Ireland's premiere DJ, the always on-point Evil Presidentes (aka Neil Waters) has whipped up another glorious mix of post-punk excellence. His brilliant Anti-Matter Mix was featured as part of Classified Records' event The Dystopian Disco and included a stellar and timeless mix of ultimate post-punk classics. Envelop yourself in the extraordinary passion and power of Evil Presidentes' phenomenal mix below or over on Soundcloud.
Evil Presidentes has created several other enchanting sets focusing on Depeche Mode and David Bowie. Be sure to dig in and visit Classified Records here.
01 New Order - Elegia
02 Joy Division - Atmosphere
03 Suicide - Cheree
04 Fad Gadget - Back To Nature
05 Can - Moonshake
06 The Strokes - Drag Queen
07 Joy Division - Transmission
08 New Order - Age Of Consent
09 Harmonia - Monza
10 Cocteau Twins - Pandora
11 Just Mustard - Tennis
12 The Velvet Underground - Guess I'm Falling In Love
13 Brian Eno - King's Lead Hat
14 Joy Division - No Love Lost
15 Television - Marquee Moon
16 The Cure - A Forest
17 New Order - Ceremony
18 Gang Of Four - I Found That Essence Rare
19 Talking Heads - Psycho Killer
Published August 16th, 2018
The Velvet Underground Experience opens in NYC this fall
A multimedia exhibition showcasing the history and influence of The Velvet Underground opens in New York this fall. The Velvet Underground Experience previously was on display in Paris in 2016 and now this fantastic exhibit comes to The Velvet Underground's stomping grounds. The exhibit is similar to the critically acclaimed David Bowie Is -- the exhibit is an exploration of VU's music, fashion, art, and influence on popular culture. Delve into the VU's history and legend with over 1000 vintage multimedia pieces including six films, 350 photos, a virtual reality recreation of Andy Warhol's iconic album artwork, and more.
The Velvet Underground Experience opens October 10th and runs through December 30th. Find out more about this incredible opportunity to celebrate The Velvet Underground and their powerful impact on music here.
Published August 16th, 2018
Wednesday, August 15, 2018
Richard Ashcroft returns with new LP 'Natural Rebel'
Richard Ashcroft revealed earlier this year that he'd release a new album this autumn. Today he's announced full details behind his fifth studio record. The album is titled Natural Rebel and arrives on October 19th. The follow up to 2016's These People will be released via Ashcroft's new imprint label RPA (Richard Paul Ashcroft) which is distributed through BMG. The ten track album was written solely by Ashcroft (take that, Noel) and was co-produced by Ashcroft, Jon Kelly and Emre Ramazanoglu. Ashcroft calls the record his strongest work to date:
“With experience comes knowledge and for me this is my strongest set of songs to date. All my favourite sounds distilled into something that will hopefully give my fans lasting pleasure. It is for them. Music is power."
Ashcroft hasn't issued any of the songs from the album yet, however he has opened up pre-orders. Natural Rebel will be released on CD, cassette, standard black vinyl, and limited edition clear blue vinyl; a variety of merch bundles are also available. Check out all the pre-order options here.
Ashcroft also announced a handful of "album preview" dates in the U.K. in support of the release. Fans who pre-order Natural Rebel prior to August 22nd will receive a pre-sale code. More details on that are posted here.
View the tracklisting and tour dates below some video of Ashcroft in action.
Natural Rebel - tracklisting
01. All My Dreams
02. Birds Fly
03. Surprised by the Joy
04. That's How Strong
05. Born to Be Strangers
06. That's When I Feel It
07. We All Bleed
08. A Man in Motion
09. Streets of Amsterdam
10. Money Money
Richard Ashcroft - U.K. tour
Oct 26 -- Glasgow @ Barrowland
Oct 28 -- Middlesbrough @ Town Hall
Oct 29 -- Nottingham @ Rock City
Oct 31 -- Manchester @ Albert Hall
Nov 02 -- London @ O2 Forum
Published August 15th, 2018
Tuesday, August 14, 2018
Stream three songs from new Joe Strummer compilation 'Joe Strummer 001'
As previously reported a double disc set featuring rare and unreleased songs from Joe Strummer will be released on September 28th. Joe Strummer 001 collects classics, demos, and previously unreleased material spanning his work outside The Clash including solo material, soundtrack works, and his bands 101ers, and The Mescaleros.
Two songs from the compilation were issued last month -- "London Is Burning" (the raw version of the last song Strummer recorded) and "It's A Rockin' World" (originally featured on season 2 of South Park and released on Chef Aid: The South Park Album). Today a previously unreleased song titled "Rose Of Erin" has been issued. Stream all three tracks below.
Joe Strummer 001 will be released on double CD, heavyweight vinyl, and digital download, plus several limited editions containing photos and sketches taken from Strummer's personal archive are available. View all the pre-order options here.
Tracklisting
01. Letsagetabitarockin' (2005 Remastered Version) - The 101ers
02. Keys To Your Heart (Version 2) [2005 Remastered Version] - The 101ers
03. Love Kills - Joe Strummer
04. Tennessee Rain - Joe Strummer
05. Trash City - Joe Strummer & The Latino Rockabilly War
06. 15th Brigade - Joe Strummer
07. Ride Your Donkey - Joe Strummer
08. Burning Lights - Joe Strummer
09. Afro-Cuban Be-Bop - The Astro-Physicians
10. Sandpaper Blues - Radar -
11. Generations - Electric Dog House
12. It’s A Rockin' World - Joe Strummer
13. Yalla Yalla - Joe Strummer & The Mescaleros
14. X-Ray Style - Joe Strummer & The Mescaleros
15. Johnny Appleseed - Joe Strummer & The Mescaleros
16. Minstrel Boy - Joe Strummer & The Mescaleros
17. Redemption Song - Johnny Cash & Joe Strummer
18. Over The Border - Jimmy Cliff & Joe Strummer
19. Coma Girl - Joe Strummer & The Mescaleros
20. Silver & Gold / Before I Grow Too Old - Joe Strummer & The Mescaleros
01. Letsagetabitarockin' (Strummer Demo) - Joe Strummer
02. Czechoslovak Song / Where Is England - Strummer, Simonon & Howard
03. Pouring Rain (1984) - Strummer, Simonon & Howard
04. Blues On The River - Joe Strummer
05. Crying On 23rd - The Soothsayers
06. 2 Bullets - Pearl Harbour
07. When Pigs Fly - Joe Strummer
08. Pouring Rain (1993) - Joe Strummer
09. Rose Of Erin - Joe Strummer
10. The Cool Impossible - Joe Strummer
11. London Is Burning - Joe Strummer & The Mescaleros
12. U.S. North - Joe Strummer & Mick Jones
Published August 14th, 2018
Monday, August 13, 2018
Echo & The Bunnymen announce North American tour
Echo & The Bunnymen release their new orchestral album The Stars, The Oceans & The Moon on October 5th. The legendary band have now announced dates for a North American tour in support of the record. The tour includes a Detroit stop at The Fillmore on November 23rd (aka Black Friday). The pre-sale kicks off this Thursday, August 16th at 10am and the general onsale is Friday, August 17th.
The Stars, The Oceans & The Moon features orchestral reinterpretations of beloved Echo & The Bunnymen songs along with two brand new tracks. The 15 track album is heavy on strings, however there are no drums on the reworkings out of respect to late drummer Pete de Freitas.
Ian McCulloch explained in a recent interview that he wanted to revisit Echo's classic material and record a version that captures his voice the way he sounds now. He is surprisingly critical of his early work and says he can't listen to a lot of it due to the sound of his voice. He claims his vocal delivery was "false" and that back in the day he was trying too hard to copy his hero, David Bowie.
Even though some fans may think it's blasphemous to re-record such iconic Echo songs, McCulloch can't be bothered with that opinion:
"I've been on that moon...it's my moon, I can sing it how I want."
Pre-order The Stars, The Oceans & The Moon here and view the album tracklisting and North American tour itinerary below:
Echo & The Bunnymen - North American tour
Nov 17 -- Toronto, ON @ Queen Elizabeth Theatre
Nov 19 -- Northampton, MA @ Calvin Theatre
Nov 20 -- Boston, MA @ Orpheum Theatre
Nov 21 -- New York, NY @ Town Hall Theatre
Nov 23 -- Detroit, MI @ Fillmore Detroit
Nov 24 -- Chicago, IL @ Vic Theatre
Nov 26 -- Denver, CO @ Paramount Theatre
Nov 27 -- Salt Lake City, UT @ Union Event Center
Nov 29 -- Seattle, WA @ Moore Theatre
Nov 30 -- Portland, OR @ Revolution Hall
Dec 01 -- Eugene, OR @ McDonald Theatre
Dec 03 -- San Francisco, CA @ The Masonic
Dec 04 -- Los Angeles, CA @ The Cathedral Sanctuary/Immanuel Presbyterian Church
The Stars, The Oceans & The Moon tracklist
01. Bring On The Dancing Horses
02. The Somnambulist
03. Nothing Lasts Forever
04. Lips Like Sugar
05. Rescue
06. Rust
07. Angels & Devils
08. Bedbugs & Ballyhoo
09. Zimbo
10. Stars Are Stars
11. Seven Seas
12. Ocean Rain
13. The Cutter
14. How Far
15. The Killing Moon
Published August 13th, 2018
'New Order: Decades' chronicles wall of synth shows
A documentary on New Order's exquisite synth-ed out production will air in the UK in September. New Order: Decades is a feature length film chronicling the unique and unprecedented series of shows at the Manchester International Festival. The shows took place last June and featured New Order performing a life-affirming set of iconic songs backed by a 12 piece synthesizer ensemble from the Royal Northern College Of Music with orchestrations conducted by Joe Duddell and stunning visuals provided by Liam Gillick.
This is more than a concert film, it's a celebration of New Order, their music, and their aesthetic. The documentary explores the initial concept, production, and technical aspects of the MIF shows and includes commentary from New Order, Liam Gillick, and Peter Saville. New Order: Decades is a rare glimpse into the creative and technical strategy of this massive undertaking, plus also showcases performance footage from these extraordinary wall-of-synth concerts.
New Order: Decades was directed by Mike Christie and airs September 22nd on Sky Arts. Read more about the film here.
Watch the trailer below and pray for this to get picked up in North America.
Almost 40 years to the day of @joydivision's TV debut, we're bringing you @neworder: Decades on Saturday 22nd Sept, 9pm. A unique and timely feature-length film about one of the UK’s most original and truly iconic bands— Sky Arts (@SkyArts) August 13, 2018
Part concert, part documentary, part genius 👍 pic.twitter.com/RpOkgjPwNV
Published August 13th, 2018