Switching To The Vapour State

Bloc Party - Mercury (7'')

2011-12-16T12:49:00.000-08:00

When Bloc Party arrived in 2004, I was blown away by the Little Thoughts single and the Silent Alarm album that followed. After that I lost a tiny bit of interest, and by their last record, had none at all really. But all that has changed and rediscovering Bloc Party couldn't come at a better time because the state of music right now to me is horrid! Anyhow, 2008's Mercury is a single worth going back to and watching them pull it off live is a whole lotta fun too! The b-side is really great as well so check em' out....

Mercury
Idea For A Story

hear!

Super Furry Animals - Lazer Beam (Dangermouse Remix)

2011-10-06T12:53:00.000-07:00

A post today over at One Step Brighter reminded me of one of the Furries great lost singles, Lazer Beam. Of course it came out on CD, 7'' and 12'', but this Dangermouse remix was available on the promo only, although it might of been made available digitally, but I can't remember for sure. It is quite lovely I must say. As for the official 12'', it had 2 mixes that have eluded me since it came out. These would be the DJ Marlboro Mix and the LFO Mix. If anyone has these, I would love to hear them cause I think they are the only official mixes by SFA I don't have or have never heard. In the meantime...

...take a shine of the DM mix here!

The Boo Radleys - Skywalker/French Canadian Bean Soup (7'')

2011-09-01T19:36:00.000-07:00

Isn't vinyl just so darn swell? I love when I bring my new double vinyl release home and open it and a 7'' record falls out as a special bonus just for you featuring a couple of exclusive tracks that you can't get anywhere else...well, at least in the old days like way back in 96 or something before the internet was ripe with every rare track you never thought you'd hear let alone find yourself a personal copy in one format or another....But this was the case with The Boo Radleys wonderful and very underrated album, C'mon Kids. It may have been commercail suicide after the success of Wake Up Boo! but really it is a very diverse collection of amazing gems. It's my favourite of their output, although nothing is as good as Blues For George Michael!

Skywalker
French Canadian Bean Soup

Go To Sleep Boo!

P.S...sorry though...not my rip!

Warm Jets EP

2011-08-30T22:52:00.000-07:00

Another one of my favourite put one awesome album out and disappear forever bands. And just like one of my other favourites, Tiger, only a handful of singles and b-sides to be had. This EP came before the debut, Future Signs, and three out of the four tracks here feature on it. So the real rarity here is the track Sunfreeze which is exclusive to this record. Hard to believe it's been 15 years already since this came out! I've only just started to rip vinyl and so I know I could get these a bit better but until I'm reunited with my record collection and good turntable which currently reside in another city which I shall soon be returning to, these will have to do!

Autopia
Sunfreeze
Wires
Liverpool St

Warm Jets EP

After All - Sitting Far Away (7'')

2011-08-26T10:33:00.000-07:00

Now here's an eighties rarity if I've ever posted one before. Since I moved to the west coast almost 10 years ago, I have become very close friends with former Pure guitarist, songwriter and producer, Todd Simko. Not only has he produced everything by my band in the last 7 years, but scored me many sessions for other people as well. A few months back, to my delight, he gave me a special 7'' for my birthday. The very first single by his eighties band, After All. These tracks were not found on their debut album which is hard to find itself. This is my first shot at ripping vinyl, so I'm not sure how you'll feel about my rip, but I know you won't find this gem anywhere else. Both these tracks are great and now I know that he can get me that eighties drum sound that I want from now on!

A: Sitting Far Away
B: Valley Of The Kings

Sitting over here!

Flesh For Lulu - I Go Crazy (Live)

2011-08-23T14:11:00.001-07:00

I had been on the hunt for quite sometime for some live Flesh taken from a promo called Final Vinyl and was thrilled to acquire it recently. What really blew me away was their amazing cover of Prince's, I Could Never Take The Place Of Your Man. Could've been a hit! A two hit wonder? Well, everybody knows I Go Crazy but, Postcards From Paradise & Siamese Twist were brilliant as well and I don't think the Lulu's got the respect they deserved. Anyhow, funny how out of these great tracks, I'm giving up THE hit again in it's live version cause the copy I got had a skip in it and I fixed it and I'm proud and you'll never be able to tell! That stuff drives me crazy.

I Go Crazy (Live)

New Blog Alert!

2011-08-19T14:36:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone! I've started a new blog and wanted to let you know about it! Switching To The Vapour State isn't going away though. I have found it increasingly hard to post stuff that's hard to find, but it seems like everything is out there these days. However, I will continue to post stuff when I find it appropriate. The new blog is called Seen A Million Faces and will be an ongoing history of the many concerts I've been to. I hope you will enjoy it and for the first while it will be a work in progress. I welcome your input and comments and hope you enjoy the ride!

Siouxsie & The Banshees - Remixes

2011-08-03T18:58:00.000-07:00

Not sure what the origin of this release is, but due to the way things were labelled, I'm gonna asume it's a fanmade comp. And that's coool cause I'd never heard these mixes at all. It's not that I'm the biggest Banshees follower, but, I really like them. Christine, Cities In Dust, Peek-A-Boo and Spellbound being a few of my faves. I saw them in 1987 (With Julian Cope opening), and they had an off night, but that's coool too. I have been going through a bit of a binge now that the brief Foreigner one that I spared you is over and that's what led me to these...

Happy House (Sir Billy Miami Hommage Re-Edit)
Cities In Dust (HavocNdeeD vs. Epidemic Remix)
Spellbound (Czart Mix)

ABC - King Without A Crown

2011-07-10T15:19:00.001-07:00

I have been seriously obsessed with these two live versions from ABC. They were released as b-sides to the King Without A Crown single, and I believe they far surpass the original studio recordings. These tracks were killer to begin with, but they just seem to come alive in this concert. I have heard other live versions of these songs, even from the same tour, but these ones rock. The mix is raw, the rhythm section flawless and Martin's vocals soar from full on to falsetto with ease.
The versions here are from the original FM broadcast, so you get a little extra at the beginning, the end, and in the middle!

The Look Of Love (Live In Boston 12-17-82)
Poison Arrow (Live In Boston 12-17-82)

Images In Vogue - In The House (Extended Dance Mix)

2011-04-30T13:41:00.000-07:00

Another great Canadian 80s band, Images In Vogue. Call It Love is still my fave song by them but I love this single quite a bit. I know a couple peeps who have played in the band over the years but have actually never seen them live, which nowadays is just the singer Dale with a bunch of other dudes, much like A Flock Of Seagulls, but that's a whole other story for another time. For now, enjoy IIV in an extended version.

In The House (Extended Dance Mix)

Men Without Hats - Where Do The Boys Go?

2011-04-28T11:22:00.000-07:00

Men Without Hats are back on tour for the first time in years, and even though it's just Ivan remaining, I'm still gonna go and check it down. Also a good friend of mine is doing their FOH so I think I can get in for free which is a bonus. I did see them live in the summer of 1984 with opening act, Spoons. That is like, 27 years ago. Holy *$#*!!!! This track is still my fave by them and one of my fave 80s tracks period, so here I give it to you in it's extended format because 3 and a half minutes is just not long enough!

Where Do The Boys Go? (Extended Version)

Depeche Mode - A Question Of Lust (Ltd. Cassette)

2011-04-26T20:06:00.000-07:00

I love how no matter how complete I think a collection of music is, to this day, little surprises continue to thrill. I thought I had 80s Depeche Mode down pat. I was wrong. Black Celebration, a live version from the US and Canadian 12" for A Question Of Time/ A Question Of Lust has gone under my radar this whole time until a recent SAP Music post made me look twice. So in SAP's honour, I give you a couple rare DM b-sides from the Limited Edition cassette single of A Question Of Lust. Twas a sweet little package that I bought at the time of release. It came in a 7" style sleeve with the tape, a badge, and a booklet. I still have it, though all 4 items are in different locations....long story..Anyhow, these are not my rips cause my tape is pretty warbly. Always up for a Blasphemous Rumours live version, me.

A Question Of Lust
Christmas Island
If You Want (Live)
Shame (Live)
Blasphemous Rumours (Live)

Chalk Circle - April Fool

2011-04-23T11:06:00.001-07:00

23 days too late but that's ok. Chalk Circle, an amazing Canadian 80s band who released some gems in the eighties. Some really great singles, like their debut, April Fool. Not only one of my fave songs from the era, but I'm really hoping someone out there has the 12" for this. There are 2 mixes of the song plus a mix of another great single, Me, Myself & I. They have never been released on CD and I'm not sure if they ever will be, so if anyone has this, please send me a copy, PLEASE! Cheers!

Another Fool's Day HERE!

Blur - Fool's Day

2011-04-22T15:52:00.001-07:00

To be honest, I was a little disappointed with Record Store Day 2011. I mean, there were some great releases this year, but none that absolutely Blew me away like last years Blur single, Fool's Day. It was a total surprise to hear something new from the band, and it's release so totally low key that I still feel it's freshness today. The store I went to first opened early so I already missed out on some exclusives I was in search for. I did manage to pick up the pink vinyl Kate Bush 10" and the Beady Eye 7" boxset so it wasn't a total bust.

And I noticed someone wanted a re-up of an older Blur post so here it is as well...(It was a really old post and I don't get many comments so they go unnoticed sometimes...) Cheers!

Fool's Day
Don't Bomb When You're The Bomb (William Orbit Remix)

Suede - Attitude (Mick Jones Remix)

2011-04-22T12:39:00.001-07:00

I don't know if you saw any of Coachella's live streams last weekend but boy, Big Audio Dynamite were amazing! I only wish that the set would have been longer. They did not dissapoint. The set was strewn with all the early classics and sounded so fresh and didn't lose the spark of the original versions. Gutted that they are not going to be visiting close enough to my city for a show, although I did see them with The Farm on the Globe tour! Anyhow, here's the wicked Mick Jones remix of Suede's Attitude which I don't believe is on the upcoming slew of Suede reissues. Cheers!

Give a little here!

Adam Ant - Vive Le Rock (12'')

2011-04-03T14:45:00.000-07:00

Adam is back and he's looking good for a man closer to 60! I've always liked his singles and lately can't get enough of them. Finding a copy of the Apollo 9 Orbit Remix has been a painful search though! So enjoy the only song the man performed at Live Aid.

Vive Le Rock (Remix)
Vive Le Rock (Instrumental Dub Mix)
Greta X

Rock here!

The Jazz Butcher - The Human Jungle (12'')

2011-03-27T13:24:00.000-07:00

It's funny cause back in the day, I had a few friends really into The Jazz Butcher. At the time I really loved the song, The Human Jungle, and I knew a couple others like Conspiracy, but never delved further until now. And wow! There is many a great song among the extensive catalog Pat Fish has put out. I thought I'd post the one that got it started for me in it's extended form and various b-sides.

The Human Jungle (Extended Version)
Death Dentist
The Devil Is My Friend

Travel...here!

Altered Images - Don't Talk To Me About Love

2011-03-24T14:50:00.000-07:00

Brilliant slice of pop perfection presented in it's 12 inch format. Clare was a Cream Dream...no, really she was although I couldn't find the pic anywhere, and this track, as well as some of their others, have stood the test of time quite well.

Don't Talk To Me About Love (Extended Version)
Last Goodbye

O.K...talk about it here!

Pigbag - Papa's Got A Brand New Pigbag (12'')

2011-02-12T14:22:00.000-08:00

The INXS craze is coming to an end. What I REALLY can't get enough of right now is Tom Tom Club, Haysi Fantayzee, and most importantly, Pigbag! If you ever watched The New Music in Canada, you'll know this song right off, but I'm telling you, I haven't heard a bad tune by them yet. I don't expect I will either. This was from a 1982 12" which featured this exclusive b-side!

Papa's Got A Brand New Pigbag (12" Version)
Another Orangutango (Dub Version)

I lub me a dub v.

INXS - Simple Simon

2011-02-11T21:16:00.001-08:00

Early single from INXS who I'm diggin' a lot right now.

Simple Simon
We Are The Vegetables

Simon's veggies here!

Glasvegas - Instrumentals

2011-01-16T12:30:00.001-08:00

Glasvegas release the first song from their new album today through their website, if you're in Europe. However disappointing it is for a Canadian like me, I already found it somewhere else! Saw some footage of them with the new drummer and I have to say it was a great move although both times I saw them first time around was mindblowing! To celebrate, I've got some instrumentals from the first album that could only be found on promos. Enjoy! Also check my want list....there's a bunch of b-sides from the Flowers And Football Tops single I'm dying for!

Daddy's Gone (Instrumental)
Geraldine (Instrumental)
Flowers And Football Tops (Instrumental)

What happens in Glasvegas stays in Glasvegas!

Simple Minds - Promised You A Miracle (Live)

2011-01-12T12:32:00.001-08:00

Still working on my best of 2010 so to start the year off, I'm posting something by my current obsession, Simple Minds. I pretty much love everything the band did til Once Upon A Time, and after that, some of their stuff is alright. Of course, New Gold Dream and Sparkle In The Rain were and still are masterpieces. Live, the band would extend and change arrangements all the time which makes for alot of fun when checking out the hundreds of bootlegs out there. This live single of Promised You A Miracle was released as a single from the bands first live album, and it's live b-sides were exclusive to this single.

Promised You A Miracle (Live)
Book Of Brilliant Things (Live)
Glittering Prize (Live)
Celebrate (Live)

Miracles Are Here!

Primal Scream - I Want You

2010-12-10T14:53:00.001-08:00

Been on a huge Scream kick lately after repeated listens to one of their recent performances of the Screamadelica record. I was lucky enough to see them on the original Screamadelica tour in Toronto way back then and it's amazing how fresh it still sounds today. One of the all time greatest! Don't know much about this limited edition 12" from 2009 but what I do know is that it's a Troggs cover that sounds just like Wild Thing and it is pretty cool!

I Want You

Want Here!

Bentley Rhythm Ace - Running On The Spot (Live)

2010-12-10T14:39:00.001-08:00

Been super busy and really wish I could post more stuff so I hope some of you dig this. It was a request. Bently Rhythm Ace live from the NME Clean Sweep CD which featured exclusive live stuff from a run of gigs they put on. Some real rarities on it so here's another...

Running On The Spot (Live At The London Astoria 01-18-98)

Run Here!

Platinum Blonde - Crying Over You (12'')

2010-11-22T12:49:00.000-08:00

With the recent cover version of Platinum Blonde's, Not In Love
by Crystal Castles Featuring Robert Smith hitting the airwaves, I thought I'd post some real PB from the ultra rare Crying Over You 12". You might not know this, but the track features a guitar solo by Alex Lifeson from Rush. Don't expect a cover of Situation Critical by Morrissey anytime soon though!

Crying Over You (Radical Mix)
Crying Over You (Dub Mix)

Cry Here!

Super Furry Animals - Bad Behaviour (Live)

2010-09-21T22:03:00.001-07:00

Last Furries post for now, another early track, Bad Behaviour performed live and taken from another wonderful cover mounted CD thanks to the NME. There are some other gems on this disc as well like Warm Jets and Spiritualized. Maybe I'll post more of it at a later date.

Bad Behaviour (Live)

Super Furry Animals - If You Don't Want Me To Destroy You (Live On Later)

2010-09-21T21:57:00.000-07:00

Another Fuzzy Logic track performed live on Later with Jools Holland. Pretty sure this is out of print now.

If You Don't Want Me To Destroy You (Live On Later)

Super Furry Animals - Frisbee (Demo)

2010-09-21T18:26:00.000-07:00

Another Furries rarity for you, the wonderful Frisbee in demo format. The Volume series was awsome but those days are long gone now. Wonderful compilations featuring exclusive material and a great booklet full of sweet stuff. Anyhow, Fuzzy Logic is still one of the best debut's of all time, no?

Frisbee (Demo)

Super Furry Animals - Download (Remix)

2010-09-21T18:15:00.000-07:00

In a bit of a Furries mood so I thought I'd put up a few rarities starting with a remix of the track Download. This came only on a sweet Melody Maker cover mounted CD and I don't believe it has ever been released elsewhere. Saw them do this song live in New York back in the summer of 98! Gorky's opened. Ah, the memories!

Download (Llwybr Llaethog Mix)

Electric Sound Of Joy - Daughters Of Destruction

2010-08-25T14:25:00.000-07:00

DCW, you rock!!! And in your honour, another sound of joy! Yet again a rare release from Electric Sound Of Joy. I managed to grab this years ago of the net, but yet another set of b-sides were impossible to find. So far, DCW has come through, so i figured I'd give it one last go.....does anyone have the 3 extra tracks from this single?

A: Daughters Of Destruction
B: Disemboogie
C: Berdoo
D: Extra Feet

Electric Sound Of Joy - Play Away

2010-08-16T14:22:00.001-07:00

I was very excited to get my first comment all year and the b-side of the Total Turn single from DCW! Thank you so much! So here is the other 7" that Electric Sound Of Joy put out in their very short time with us. Again, if anyone has a rip of the flip, Building Blocks, I would love to hear it. Cheers!

A: Play Away
B: Building Blocks

Electric Sound Of Joy - Total Turn

2010-08-14T00:04:00.001-07:00

It was along time ago when my favorite magazine, Select, would introduce me to bands like Electric Sound Of Joy. This was before the interweb took over of course, and like the magazine, Electric Sound Of Joy didn't last much longer either. Anyhow, Total Turn is an absolute gem and still gives me joy to this day. Repeated listens a must, and scrounge for the very little discography that exists by this wonderful band. Only A few songs with vocals were released before the singer jumped ship, but their instrumental kraut pop worked very well for them too. Total Turn was their debut. A total classic if you ask me. If anyone has the b-side to this single, please share!

A: Total Turn
B: Our Flag

Killing Joke - Eighties

2010-08-03T11:14:00.000-07:00

Killing Joke have a new EP out and it's quite fantastic. This is to be followed by a new album next month and a tour to boot. I'm gonna get to see them for the first time in December and I'm pretty stoked. Original lineup too! So in honor, here is 6 versions of one of my favorites ever, Eighties!

Eighties
Eighties (Coming)
Eighties (Serious Dance Mix)
Eighties (Kid Jensen Session)
Eighties (Live)
Eighties (Live 2)

Come as you are...

Boys Brigade - The Passion Of Love

2010-06-15T14:52:00.001-07:00

Great single from lost Canadian eighties band Boys Brigade. They only put out one album and some of you may be more familiar with their other hit, Melody or maybe some of Malcolm Burn's solo stuff. This remains a favourite from that era even today.

The Passion Of Love

It's burning inside of me...

Devo - Girl U Want (Edit)

2010-06-13T16:35:00.000-07:00

Have finally heard the new Devo album, Something For Eveybody, and I must say it is really good. Classic Devo in the style of their 80's output and much better than their last studio effort, although that was 20 years ago already! So in tribute to that, today I bring you an unofficial edit of the still amazing Girl U Want. But, blink and you might miss it.

Girl U Want (Edit)

Huh??...

Ian Brown - Corpses (XFM Session)

2010-06-13T16:24:00.000-07:00

Taken from the Dolphins Were Monkeys limited edition 7'', this is a little more raw than the version that appeared on Ian's debut solo album.

Corpses (XFM Session)

in her mouth...

Longpigs - Live

2010-06-12T16:30:00.000-07:00

Oh how I miss Longpigs. I actually got to see them live four times in Toronto over their short existence and they were one of the best live bands I ever saw! Unfortunately, live recordings of the band are scarce, and apart from one bootleg which I lost in the great hardrive crash of a few years ago, these three are the only live tracks I have by the band. These are taken from CD2 of the She Said re-issue.

Lost Myself (Live)
Far (Live)
On And On (Live)

and on and on...

Super Furry Animals - BBC Session

2010-06-11T19:46:00.000-07:00

Yeah yeah, it's been awhile and I'm sure no one cares why so, whatever. Here's some BBC versions of some great Furries tunes and one cover circa Radiator, arguably their best album. I did say arguably. I've got some great Furries boots that I recorded myself at various shows I will try and post soon. These are taken from The Man Don't Give A Fuzz bootleg.

Demons (BBC Session)
Play It Cool (BBC Session)
The International Language Of Screaming (BBC Session)
Y Teimlad (Peel Session)

Act The Fool...

Best Of 2009

2010-01-10T21:02:00.000-08:00

I thought 2009 was a bit lame musically to tell you the truth, but I still managed to find some stuff I quite liked.

#1 - Julian Casablancas - Phrazes For The Young

I probably listened to this album the most out of everything that came out last year, therefore, it's my number one record of the year! And his show in Vancouver was really, really good too!

#2 - Pete Yorn & Scarlett Johansson - Break Up

This one shocked me! I loved it the first time through and it is not what I expected. This will still be listenable in 20 years and is full of great songs and fantastic production.

#3 - Charlotte Hatherley - New Worlds

Her debut is still my favorite, but she keeps delivering that XTC tinged angular pop that really gets me. A fantastic songwriter and guitar hero, Chaz has not gotten her due yet.

#4 - Brakes - Touchdown

Everything the Electric Soft Parade do is a touchdown, so that covers 50% of the magic here.

#5 - Franz Ferdinand - Tonight/Blood

Franz proved that they still got it goin' on. And anyone that puts out a dub version of the album as well deserves to be in the top 10 just for that reason alone!

#6 - Florence And The Machine - Lungs

This is just a great record. Surprised me really. And there's a Longpigs connection.

#7 - The Horrors - Primary Colours

Like Kings Of Leon, didn't really care for the first record, but the second perked up my ears and thought, this band is getting better! The Kings 3rd release was an all time masterpiece, so I'm lookin' out for The Horrors. They were good live too.

#8 - Metric - Fantasies

Metric lost me for awhile there, but this is another record that I thought every track was very good. Plus, I'm Canadian!

#9 - Depeche Mode - Sounds Of The Universe

The Mode make it on to the chart simply because I liked them when they came out, and I still like em' now! They can still make a great album and Fragile Tension was one of my fave tracks of the year.

#10 - Super Furry Animals - Dark Days/Light Years

The Furries get in cause even though this wasn't their best record, they remain one of the best bands on the planet. Some great songs here plus, their artwork remains truly original and beautiful.

Honorable Mentions: Singles & Albums

The Warlocks - The Mirror Explodes
Kasabian - West Ryder Pauper Lunatic Asylum
Ian Brown - Stellify
Pearl Jam - The Fixer
Arctic Monkeys - Humbug
The Futureheads - Struck Dumb
Peter, Bjorn, And John - Lay It Down

Single Of The Year:

Julian Casablancas - 11th Dimension

Top 10 Grab Bag of album tracks and rarities here!

Best Gigs Of The Year:

#1 - DEVO - Seattle
#2 - Glasvegas - Vancouver
#3 - Julian Casablancas - Vancouver
#4 - The Kills - Vancouver
#5 - SexyBooks - Vancouver

Fast Forward: Let's hope the new decade will bring a fresh tatse to all of our ears. That Spoon album better be good, know what I mean? Have a great year!

The Yoko Casionos - Moments / Less Attractive

2009-12-13T16:26:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone. I thought I'd share a little insight as to why there's been so few posts from me in the last while. One of the main reasons is that after a two and a half year breakup, my band, The Yoko Casionos has gotten back together. So even though I don't have a rare mp3 download for today, why don't you go check out our new single, Moments, and another new track, Less Attractive, which will be coming out in the early part of next year. Let me know what ya think. Of course my best of 2009, (a tough one this year!), will be coming soon. Cheers!

Charlotte Hatherley - Accordion Versions

2009-11-05T15:47:00.000-08:00

So yeah, it's been awhile! After a forced move back in July, and then my old band getting back together, I haven't had a lot of time and 2, I don't really have a proper transfer setup right now. None the less, I'm not gone forever, just a little here and there for now...

Which brings me to the reason you're here in the first place...A very good friend recently brought me the new Charlotte Hatherley album, White, from London and it is quite good. It did remind me of these accordion versions of her early hits that were floating around when Grey Will Fade was out. These were done by Martin White and are sure to help you clear out the party when it's just that time!

Summer (Accordion Version)
Bastardo (Accordion Version)
Kim Wilde (Accordion Version)

Summer is long gone....

Trio - Anna (Extended) + More...

2009-06-18T15:23:00.001-07:00

I can't quite bring myself to do straight re-ups due to time constraints but I want to fulfill all of our needs so here is a nice grab bag of Trio stuff. Some Extendeds, some live, some b-sides and a very rare remix I found a number of years back. Gotta run now. Rehearsal tonight and gig this weekend. See you next week? Cheers!

Anna (Extended)
Boom Boom (Extended)
Broken Hearts For You And Me (Live)
Da Da Da (Bill Murray Mix)
Halt Mich Fest Ich Werd Ver
Kummer (Live)
Lady-O-Lady
Sunday You Need Love, Monday Be Alone

Super Furry Animals - Charge

2009-06-16T18:12:00.000-07:00

Rare B-Side to the brilliant 7" only single, Ysbeidiau Heulog, taken from the incredible MWNG album. The instrumental, Charge was taken from a session recording and so far has only appeared on this white vinyl wonder.

A: Ysbeidiau Heulog
B: Charge

Blur - Death Of A Party (Acoustic)

2009-06-16T17:48:00.000-07:00

Sorry it's been quiet lately but I have been extremely busy lately. I'm in 2 bands at the moment and between that and work, I haven't had much spare time. But hang in there....I'm trying. Anyhow....very excited about Blur making their comeback this week. Having seen them about 9 or 10 times over the years, I'm hoping they bring it on over to these parts soon. This demo of Death Of A Party is from a fanclub CD which came with a copy of their fanzine which I bought at Penny Lane in Toronto many moons ago. Dig!

DEATH 1

Warm Jets - Hurricane

2009-05-09T16:29:00.000-07:00

I think this is CD1 out of 2 of the reissued version of Hurricane. Great band, great single, and not enough material left behind. Shame that.

Hurricane (Radio Edit)
Soft Song
Dakota

No It's Not Eno....

Kai & The War Milk Boys - Re-Post

2009-05-09T16:24:00.000-07:00

By request again! The Kai & The War Milk Boys album. If there is not at least 5 comments after this post, I will never re-up this again!!!

The Ballad Of.....

Super Furry Animals - The Citizen's Band

2009-05-05T11:40:00.000-07:00

Guerrilla is my favorite album by Super Furry Animals fer sure. The Beach Boys cover Kraftwerk method really comes together here and it features some of the best tracks the band have done in their 15 year career. Anyhow, it wasn't til years later that I discovered said favorite album had one of those hidden tracks on it. Not at the end when you've fallen asleep and are awoken by a special 20 minutes later racket (although there is a short hidden track at the end as well), but a hidden track that is before track 1 so when you put the disc on and it starts, you must hit rewind. It is a rather glorious track too that fits in well with the rest of this masterpiece. It is called The Citizen's Band and I hope you enjoy it.

That's Right...Don't Go Chewin' Now.

The Mock Turtles - And Then She Smiles

2009-05-03T18:57:00.000-07:00

Lately it's been all Zep and TFF for me but I'm branching out today with this wonderful single from The Mock Turtles. I was baggy and this fit right in with my agenda at the time. I might like Strings And Flowers more but And Then She Smiles is a near perfect pop song, all sugary sweet but not in a Stone Roses kinda way. The real gem here however is the Can U Dig It? remix because any remix of Can U Dig It? is good, no?

Dig It Here...

A Flock Of Seagulls - Space Age Love Song

2009-04-19T00:00:00.000-07:00

Always liked the early Flock. I played drums in a Canadian new wave band for a while and we toured with A Flock Of Seagulls around 2000 or 2001. Only Mike Score was left of the original flock by this point and his latest hairstyle was more like, just got off my boat and now I'm in the pub, but they had their moments. They did Nightmares on one of the nights by my request and I was pretty stoked. More so than the version of I Ran they would do every night re-titled IR2K. Thankfully they'd do the original version to close out the night. He loosened up a bit by the end of the tour and was cool enough to share a few back in the day stories. Here's a couple of unofficial remixes of Space Age Love Song.

Space Age Love Song (Hot Tracks Mix)
Space Age Love Song (Razormaid Mix)

Razor Hot Tracks

Super Furry Animals - Hello Sunshine (Davy Love Remix)

2009-03-14T19:06:00.000-07:00

Very excited because my favourite band is releasing a new album on Monday. Super Furry Animals will be releasing their 9th studio album and it's called Dark Days/Light Years and if the free mp3 they've givin' away from their website is any indication, it should be another classic. I have said that about all of their records though. Today I give you a very rare remix of Hello Sunshine from the Phantom Power album. I believe this mix was supposed to be on the remix album, Phantom Phorce, but Davy Love was too stoned to get it in on time for inclusion. Sorry it's only at 128 but I have never found another version of it, so try and enjoy!

Hello Sunshine (Davy Love Mix)

Blondie - Good Boys (Waxdroidz Remix)

2009-03-12T14:17:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the lack of posts over the last month. I have been really busy with work, house guests, and rehearsing and recording demos with my new band so it hasn't left me alot of spare time. But I'm back today to tell you that I met Blondie a couple weeks ago. My Mom was recently out for a visit and on one of the days I went to pick her up from the hotel she was staying, it happened. Leaving her room, a man came out of another room and I thought, that's Chris Stein from Blondie. As the three of us got to the elevator, I introduced myself and a brief conversation took place. A moment later the elevator door opened up and Debbie Harry was on it! So the 4 of us rode down together and after a few lines of convo, it was over. Then, later that night whilst me and my girl were dropping my Mom back off, Chris and Debbie came through the lobby just as we got there. They winked and smiled at us and we followed them out to the bus where they signed a few autos and took pics. So my girlfriend got to talk to Debbie, one of her heroes and was dead excited. It was very cool. So today enjoy this unreleased remix of Good Boys.

Good Boys (Waxdroidz Remix)

GoodBooks - You Can't Fool Me Dennis

2009-02-05T17:55:00.001-08:00

Now we have the amazing GoodBooks covering Mystery Jets' You Can't Fool Me Dennis. Taken from a very limited edition 7 inch that had this cover on the A-side and a Mystery Jets track called Under The Pews on the B-side. I'm a huge fan of GoodBooks and Mystery Jets. This is quite good but you know the Jets original is a classic!

You Can't Fool Me Dennis

Mystery Jets - The Pioneers

2009-02-05T17:36:00.000-08:00

2005 Limited Edition Bloc Party picture disc of The Pioneers. The only place you'd find this wonderful cover of The Pioneers by Mystery Jets. The sleeve credits the track as Bloc Party vs Mystery Jets but I belive it's a straight up cover. The results having me believe it's a lot better that the A-side!

The Pioneers

Super Furry Animals - Slow Life EP

2009-01-31T18:37:00.000-08:00

Someone had this playing at work today. Cool! This nice little EP came with the Phantom Phorce limited edition, which was the remix companion album of the Phantom Power long player. A great example of when the Furries blend their classic rock with the latest technology. Seen them open with this a couple times live. This also has the track they did with Goldie Looking Chain and a good remix of Out Of Control. Best news is that they have a new album (their 9th) coming in March! Yay!

Slow Life
Motherfokker
Lost Control

Rocks Are Slow Life

Paris Angels - Oh Yes

2009-01-27T09:49:00.000-08:00

I watched an interesting documentary on the Madchester scene yesterday and it got me thinking about my favourite tracks of the time. Of course Fools Gold and WFL are way up there, but the second wave of bands, although most only put out a few singles and one album, had some classics that I still love today. Paris Angels put out a bunch of cracking singles. Perfume, Scope and this one, Oh Yes. I remember taking a trip to Buffalo to a small indie shop where I found this one. It still sounds very fresh to my ears today but it also takes me back to highschool where you could find me Bezzing down the hall in my baggy jeans, Mondays T, and Reni hat. I hope you dig!

Oh Yes
I Understand
Oh Yes (Instrumental)
Too Easy

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Finally......The Best Of 2008

2009-01-16T11:35:00.000-08:00

I found at least 20 reasons to still love music in 2008 and here they are!

#1 - Kings Of Leon - Only By The Night

No surprise here. For the second year in a row, KOL deliver the best album of the year! Building on last years Because Of The Times, The Kings continue to deliver their own brand of the south, this time with extra added stadium delivery. The Kings haven't sold out kiddies, they've just gotten better at songwriting and playing and if you can't handle it, go listen to Lynyrd Skynyrd or the lame Bloc Party album or something...

#2 - Glasvegas

I'm quite positive Geraldine is the single of the year and if it weren't for KOL, this would have been my #1 album of the year. Glasvegas' debut is really nothing new, but it delivers a set of very memorable songs set to The Jesus And Mary Chain by way of The Shondells with a thicker Scottish accent. No one has done 3 chords this good in a dogs age.

#3 - Mystery Jets - Twenty One

Another record that could have easily come in at number one or two. The Jets got poppier, discovered the eighties, and wrote some of the catchiest pop tunes around. Two Doors Down was one of the best singles of the year and their videos, brilliant. Probably what The Killers wished their record sounded like!

#4 - Primal Scream - Beautiful Future

After another straight ahead rock and roll record, the Scream went back and mixed it up again with one of their best albums in years. If the title track had been a single, it might have been my number one. There's plenty here to get excited about. Your new Saturday night record for sure.

#5 - Neon Neon - Stainless Style

With the Super Furry Animals taking yet another year off, Gruff managed to pull off an 80's concept album with his pal Boom Bip and turned out to be one of the best of the year. It's a shame then that it looks like this is a one off so cherish it while it lasts. And this record will last a long long time.

#6 - The Ting Tings - We Started Nothing

Big surprise this year. The Ting Tings debut was full of hooks and charm and they put on one of the best live shows I saw in 2008. I look forward to see what their next move will be.

#7 - Phantom Planet - Raise The Dead

An absolute shame that Phantom Planet played their last show mere weeks ago. It was a long worthwhile wait for this album, and it seems that no one listened. Leader and Too Much Too Often were a couple of the best songs of the year, and you're too late to make a difference now!

#8 - The Kills - Midnight Boom

I admit I didn't know much about The Kills till I saw them doing Last Day Of Magic live on TV and was blown away. This album is full of magic. Yeah Yeah Yeahs have got alot to answer for now!

#9 - Pretenders - Break Up The Concrete

One of my fave bands of all time. Chrissie came back with a new line up and a record of low-fi tunes that if you closed your eyes long enough, you'd swear it was 1981 all over again. Plus they gave the bloody thing away for free. FREE! Can you believe it!

#10 - The Courteeners - St. Jude

I thought I knew it all until The Courteeners appeared on the cover of NME and I was like, who the fuck is that? Oasis and Roses inspired, this record is hard to get tired of. I think we've only heard the early potential here of what could turn into a long career for these lads. Plus they name check The La's in one of their tunes.

#11 - The Killers - Day & Age

I always want to hate The Killers and they always win me over in the end. I'm not sure of the lasting effects Day & Age will have, but it is kinda fun and dosn't take itself too seriously. Spaceman was one of my favourite tracks too this year.

#12 - Stereo MC's - Double Bubble

I didn't even know they had a record coming out so this was quite a surprise and a fantastic Saturday night album it is.

#13 - The Clash - Live At Shea Stadium

O.K...so this is actually from 1982 I think, but it came out in 2008 and fits along side everything else quite nice, apart from the fact that no other band on this list will ever come close to what The Clash achieved. Cracking versions here.

#14 - The Futureheads - This Is Not The World

Three's a charm. Much better than their last effort and the first on their own label. The F-Heads return to why we loved them in the first place. Jerky strange New Wave with killer pop songs and more rocking than Grandma's chair. I don't really know what that means.

#15 - Razorlight - Slipway Fires

A little more mellow than the last one but not short on hooks or charm. Burberry Blue Eyes and You and The Rest are fantastic songs and unlikely single Wire To Wire is a real grower.

#16 - Sparks - Exotic Creatures Of The Night

A landmark year for Sparks which saw them release their 22nd album and perform everyone of them for a stint in May. The guitars are back, but the wit and odd songs are still right where you want them to be. And who else could do a song called Lighten Up Morrissey. One of my favourite bands of all time.

#17 - Peter, Bjorn & John - Seaside Rock

I guess their proper album is coming out soon but this interesting mostly instrumental release sounds like field recordings with strange airport voiceovers. It's very strange and mellow and I actually loved it.

#18 - The Kooks - Konk

More of the same from The Kooks on album number two but you can't deny how good this lot are. A big Shout out to the last track on this record as well as one of the best singles of the year, Always Where I Need To Be. Best Do Do Do's of the year by far.

#19 - The Peth - The Golden Mile

Anything Furries related is usually good. SFA's Drummer and bassist teamed up with actor Rhys what's his name and made a record that sounds a hell of alot like Fuzzy Logic era Furries and that's why I liked it. Furries come back!

#20 - Supergrass - Diamond Hoo Ha

It's bloody Supergrass ya'll. Still cooking.

Honorable Mentions....

Albert Hammond Jr., Beck, Bauhaus, MGMT, Goldfrapp, Spiritualized, The Last Shadow Puppets, Black Kids, Ratatat, Stereolab....you all made good records this year too!

Best Singles Of 2008

Best Gigs Of 2008

#1 - AC/DC - Vancouver
#2 - The Ting Tings - Vancouver
#3 - Kings Of Leon - Seattle
#4 - The Long Blondes - Vancouver
#5 - Maximo Park - Vancouver

2009 Hopefulls: So far the new Morrissey and Franz Ferdinand records should be contenders for next years list. Have a great year.

Ted Leo / Pharmacists - Come Baby Come (Live)

2009-01-09T23:48:00.000-08:00

I met Ted Leo on a night back in 2001 when my band had to cancel an opening slot for the Pharmacists. From that night forward, I was a life long fan after being absolutely blown away. Did go on to open for them a few times and this track was taken from the first of those. The Last Night At The El Mocambo in Toronto was November 4th, 2001. Yes it has since re-opened but it will never be the same. That night was magic and TL/RX blew minds. Great version of Come Baby Come with the classic line-up of Ted, Chris, Dave and James.

Come Baby Come (Live 11-04-01)

Guilty About Girls - Polygraph

2009-01-03T17:39:00.000-08:00

If you haven't heard of Canada's 90's pop sensations Pure, then that's quite a shame because they put out some class singles back then. Go look into it. So it looks like Jordy and Mark from Pure have this new gig and it's called Guilty About Girls. I bought the handmade 3 inch disc at a gig in the summer and you can now get the EP on iTunes. If the infectious first track Polygraph hits ya, go get the rest of the EP. One of the tracks even name checks my old band!

Polygraph
Karaoke With Me
Sleepy Kid
Brand New High

Click here for more GAG and buy this EP!

The Sound City - Now!

2009-01-03T17:05:00.001-08:00

Happy New Year ya'll. I thought I'd kick off the new year with some posts of friends bands. Some are fresh and new, others going steady, and some are gone forever. I pretty much guarantee you haven't heard any of these...

Picture it. 2001. The Strokes are now upon us and what better thing to do than start a band. The Sound City were around for not very long but sprung this debut EP upon a drooling public in the summer of 2001. From Toronto, It leans toward the Thrush Hermit side of the street (they even have the word coast in one of the titles) and sadly it is very difficult to find anything on the band. If you do, let me know.

Now
Take Me Down To The Coast
Meat Market

Download Now!

Revolver - Crimson

2008-12-20T16:18:00.000-08:00

Last of the 1991 posts for now. Not crazy for Revolver but I quite liked this single at the time and still enjoy hearing it now. And I also like the one where they're bangin' away on an acoustic or something....next post: some stuff you've never heard of.

Crimson, Don't Ever Leave, Drowning Inside, Further Away

Chapterhouse - Pearl

2008-12-19T08:09:00.001-08:00

Tonight we're gonna party like it's 1991! Nice Led Zep drum sample in this one. Siouxie then ended up taking a sample from this track as well. I always thought Breather should have been a single. I do believe the b-sides here showed up on the re-release of Whirlpool but i don't think the edit of Pearl did.

Pearl, Come Heaven, In My Arms, Pearl (Edit)

Easy - Horoscope

2008-12-16T14:33:00.000-08:00

I think it was the imaginary natural form "Gold Spiral" sculpted within computer 3D by William Latham cover that first attracted me to the Horoscope single by Easy. I was probably buying some Ride or Swervedriver at the time when this caught my eye. The song was alright but didn't blow me away but I bought it anyway, figuring that I was one step ahead in the shoegaze department and that in 17 years I would post it on my blog, proving my years beyond cool. However, the 3rd track, Apples For You, made it onto many a mix tape over the years, being a wee low-fi indie rarity for those minds that think alike.

Horoscope

Horoscope, Flamingo V, Apples For You

Five Thirty - You EP

2008-12-14T16:01:00.000-08:00

Although You is a pretty good Jamish rocker, this EP is really worth the price for what I think is the best song the band released, Cuddly Drug. Almost predicting the britpop template with enough baggy in it to have caught my attention at the time. Have had this one in my head for a couple days so I thought I'd share it with ya'll. I'm also gonna dedicate this post to my friend Derek, who had a baby girl born today and that's the cuddliest drug that you can get!

You EP

You, Cuddly Drug, Slow Train Into The Ocean

Phantom Planet - R.I.P.

2008-12-06T20:46:00.000-08:00

Sad news. After 15 years, Phantom Planet will play their last show next week. I'm bummed cause I never got to see them live and 2004's self titled album is one of my all-time favourite records. The album that came out this year, Raise The Dead is drop dead gorgeous and it has fallen on deaf ears. May they continue down new musical paths because the loss is tremendous! I give you a live version of Big Brat and a Japanese bonus track, Stiffs, from the last record.

Big Brat (Live)
Stiffs

Platinum Blonde - Crying Over You (Ultimix)

2008-12-06T20:29:00.000-08:00

Kenny Mclean from 80's sensation Platinum Blonde passed away last week from natural causes. I had met Kenny a few times and he will be sadly missed. This one's for you...

Crying Over You (Ultimix)

Blur - Don't Bomb When You're The Bomb

2008-12-04T10:00:00.000-08:00

I wonder what Simon Tong is doing. First The Verve get back together and don't extend him the invite, and now it seems Blur will do the same. Although I'm quite pleased Graham Coxon will be back in the fold, poor Simon bails out classic bands in need and then gets the shaft in the end. He's probably relieved about not rejoining the Verve. Have you even listened to Forth? It's bloody awful! I think Blur made a great record without Coxon, Think Tank, but they are a much better band with him and look forward to see what they might do next year. In the meantime, here's 2 versions of the very rare limited 2002 promo release of Don't Bomb When You're The Bomb, made just after Graham left the band....Oh yeah, Simon, if you're listening, my band needs a guitar player really bad!

Don't Bomb When You're The Bomb
Don't Bomb When You're The Bomb (Orbit Mix)

Liam Shaped Disc

2008-11-22T16:52:00.000-08:00

Shaped CD's were all the rage at one point, weren't they? Actually, i only have a couple of them, this being one. The Liam shaped picture disc is quite the wonder and is it any wonder really? What's contained on it is simply the Oasis acceptance speech from the 1996 Brit awards. Don't you just love the hole through Liam's eye? I mean it had to go somewhere. And yes, track 1 and 2 are the same. The only thing I can figure is cause there was a red vinyl 7inch (which I have as well) that had it on both sides. Great version of Parklife included! (Hey, I like Blur too.)

Brit Awards Acceptance Speech 96

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Black Grape - Toronto Interview 1995

2008-11-18T14:30:00.001-08:00

Here's a little rarity for you today. An interview with Shaun and Kermit from Black Grape I taped off the radio the day of the show. Yes I went and it was amazing. Here they chat about their debut album, Dave Gahan, Liam and Noel, Bez's absence, and a lot more. Enjoy.

Black Grape - Toronto Interview 1995

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EMF - Perfect Day (Martinijuana Mix)

2008-11-15T17:15:00.000-08:00

10,000 HITS!!! Wow. I can't believe this blog has now recieved over 10,00 hits. Compared to some of the amazing blogs out there i know that it is barely scratching the surface in the blogsphere, but I really though only my friends would check it out, so thanks! It makes me wish I could post more and I will try. It's been a busy time with work and getting the new bands single recorded and mixed. Plus, alot of the rare stuff I wish to post is still living in another city from me so I still gotta work that shit out! regardless, thanks again and i hope todays offering will please. It's a rare remix of EMF's Perfect Day. It came on one of the best free Select Magazine tapes of all time with some very memorable rarities and exclusives from The Boo Radleys, Spiritualized, Stereolab and many more. I saw EMF in Toronto at the legendary El Mocambo on the Schubert Dip tour and would you believe they played Unbelievable TWICE! The crowd was monsters for the F and once they'd run out of songs to play, they had no choice. More or DIE! It was a great show. Stay tuned for more as I've got some neat stuff to post including a Black Grape interview done in Toronto and some other tasty stuff for ya!

Perfect Day (Martinijuana Mix)

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Tiger - Girl From The Petrol Station

2008-10-30T14:36:00.000-07:00

One of the greatest and mostly unknown bands from the Brit-Pop era, Tiger put out some classic records before disbanding right after their second full LP. I was hooked right away after hearing b-side Icicle on a Vox Magazine compilation and went on to collect all of their releases. All but one. The second album Rosaria spawned the 2 part Friends single. The band split before the second one got it's commercial release. This would be the 2 part Girl From The Petrol Station. Promo copies did go out and I managed to find part 1 with it's exclusive b-sides, Paul Young and Sea Shandy which you can DL below. The part 2 b-sides are another story. Even Dan from Tiger himself could not find a copy for me. I know they are out there and they are called God It's Good and Rolling Rose. If you have them, please send them to me for they are the only 2 official Tiger tracks I have never heard! In the meantime, enjoy the 3rd and 4th rarest Tiger tracks out there. Cheers!

Paul Young
Sea Shandy

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The Stone Roses - Interview 01-30-95

2008-10-06T11:42:00.000-07:00

In late January of 1995, Manchester legends The Stone Roses finally came to Canada for the very first time. Although there was no gig, Ian and John came over to speak to the press and announce they would soon grace our shores with their live show. In Toronto, they would come to the radio station, CFNY, for an interview and spin some cuts from their recently released, 5 years in the waiting sophomore release, Second Coming. The interview was open to the public, so early afternoon we made our way to the station to find an already jammed studio. Fortunately we managed to be a couple of the last to get in the door. The wait was on but when Ian and John finally entered the room, it was really really exciting. The interview was done by DJ Kim who went into it with quite a chip on her shoulder, the Roses having a rep for not saying much, but by the end you can hear she's slightly won over by the duo's nonchalance. After the interview, they talked to everyone there and signed every last autograph, including mine pictured above. I made it home in time to tape the whole thing off the radio and would like to share it with you. I edited out the tunes they played, (no one needs crapy radio rips of Driving South and Good Times!) so what you get here is everything Ian and John had to say. Enjoy!

The Stone Roses - Interview, January 30th 1995

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Aztec Camera - Somewhere In My Heart

2008-08-14T12:27:00.000-07:00

One of my favourite pop songs ever and the perfect summer driving song. I got to see Aztec Camera on the Love tour and this was the 3rd single released from the Love album. Roddy is still kickin' it these days, most recently playing guitar for Edwyn Collins from the other 80's Glasgow pop masters, Orange Juice.

Also included today is the b-side from the latest Mystery Jets 7" single, Two Doors Down, which not by coincidence is a cover of Aztec camera's, Somewhere In My Heart. They definitely make it their own, with all the pop still there but adding a little bit of weird to it. Totally amazing.

Somewhere In My Heart (Album Version)
Somewhere In My Heart (Remix Version)
Somewhere In My Heart (Alternate Version)
Somewhere In My Heart (Mystery Jets Cover Version)

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Ride - The Box Set

2008-08-11T21:39:00.001-07:00

Happy Birthday Michael!!! Here's that Ride box set you've always wanted!

It's full of delicious Ride goodies!

You could even share some with your friends!

OX4: The Best Of Ride
Firing Blanks: Unreleased Recordings 1988-1995
Live At Reading Festival 1992

And as a special added Birthday bonus, I give you Waves. Ride's BBC Sessions from 1990 -1994!

Waves: BBC Sessions 1990-1994

Miss you buddy. See you soon!

Kai And The War Milk Boys - The Ballad Of Johny Christ

2008-08-04T19:56:00.001-07:00

Have had a request for this for some time but it took awhile to find the disc. Also my scanner is down so no sleeve, but when I get it back up and running, I'll do a large Kai post with rarities and pics and stuff. I played drums in the band so believe me, I've got more stuff. This album came out in 1999.

My Heart's Parade
New World Anthem
On My Street
Dream In Stereo
Hollywood
Porn Star
Boring Day
Do U
The Ballad Of Johny Christ
Anna Thesia
Gun
Memergreen
Sunshine Blue

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Sondre Lerche - Europa & The Pirate Twins

2008-08-04T17:54:00.000-07:00

It's been awhile and not so sure what I want to do with the blog. For now enjoy this video. This version is simply wonderful!

Warm Jets - Never Never

2008-04-18T10:50:00.000-07:00

The late 90's brought us some very short but very memorable appearences by some new wave of new wave bands. Some very great records were made by the likes of Tiger and Gay Dad who both put out killer debuts, only to fade in popularity with their follow up records, Tiger's Rosaria which was fantastic and produced by Stephen Street. Gay Dad's Transmission, which wasn't as good as the first one. And that brings us to Warm Jets who never got to put out a follow up to their brilliant album, Future Signs. A lo-fi, new wave album which boast some pretty memorable pop dities in the vein of....hmm..I'm not really sure. Can't put my finger on it. Check out this single and you tell me. These are from the 2 CD set of the single Never Never, which is like the only video I have seen of the band. The b-sides are quite as great as the stuff on their album, but you will become a fan and are glad that somebody has these hard to find tracks.

Never Never
On The Floor
There Is Still Mystery
Underground
RTZ

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Phantom Planet - Too Much Too Often

2008-04-08T22:24:00.000-07:00

Only one more week til the new Phantom Planet album finally hits the streets. It's been 4 years already since their amazing self-titled 3rd album. This track is amazing and will be on the forthcoming Raise The Dead album. It appeared briefly on the band's tour EP from last year. They are gonna be on Jimmy Kimmel tonight. Gotta run.

Too Much Too Often

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Mystery Jets - Veiled In Grey

2008-04-08T22:13:00.001-07:00

Mystery Jets have a new record out. It's called Twenty One, and it's marvelous. Dad's no longer in the band but it hasn't stopped the Jets from topping their debut with a more percise aproach. My spelling might be atrocious but this track is a standout for me.

Veiled In Grey

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New Order - Thieves Like Us

2008-04-08T22:03:00.000-07:00

This one's been in my head for days recently. An absolute classic pop single from one of the best, New Order. The b-side is also near perfect with amazing guitar from Barney, an all-time favourite New Order track.
Also sharing this in tribute to the now defunked (sic) Forced Laugh. You will be missed.

Thieves Like Us (12" Version)
Lonesome Tonight

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Trio - Da Da Da I Don't Love You You Don't Love Me

2008-03-31T10:10:00.000-07:00

One of my favourite bands of all time, and one of the most original. Considered one hit wonders apart from their homeland of Germany, Da Da Da was great, but Trio put out some really great albums and singles. The North American b-side, Sunday You Need Love is one of their best. If you're really lucky I'll post some live stuff I have at a later date, but for now, The extended of their most popular tune and some of it's various b-sides.

Da Da Da I Don't Love You You Don't Love Me (Long Version)
Sunday You Need Love, Monday Be Alone
Ja Ja Ja
Sabine Sabine Sabine

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The Ting Tings

2008-03-26T11:52:00.001-07:00

A break from the eighties in order to introduce you to a great new band from England, The Ting Tings. Don't know much about this duo yet as they've only released a few singles. It's almost like Gwen fronting Lucious Jackson with Peaches attitude, but I could be wrong. Let me know what you think. That's Not My Name is already contender in my books for one of the songs of 2008 so far.

Great DJ
That's Not My Name
Fruit Machine

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Big Audio Dynamite - Contact

2008-03-22T10:15:00.000-07:00

Wow! Mick Jones and Leo Williams from BAD are in town tonight! Leo plays in Mick's new band, Carbon/Silicon along with Tony James from Gen X and SSS.I'm really hoping to go. I have to work 2 shifts tonight and might be able to fit it in in between. I saw BAD when they toured with The Farm and it was quite a memorable show. Of course I never saw The Clash but saw Joe Strummer live and he was awesome as well. Wish me luck, and if I don't get to go, we can listen to Contact over and over instead!

Contact (12" Remix)
Contact (Club Mix)
In Full Effect
Who Beats

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Big Audio Dynamite - Just Play Music

2008-03-17T18:08:00.001-07:00

Another great single taken from BAD's third album, Tighten Up Vol. 88. The line "I don't care what key it's in, where it's from or where it's been, just play music" pretty much sums it up for this one. Jones was a little more specific in the later single, Looking For A Song in which he requested, "Looking for a song, about 3:30 long, a song that I can sing, it don't need no complicated thing." Precisely!

Just Play Music (Extended Mix)
Much Worse (Extended Mix)
Just Play Music (Extended Remix)

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Big Audio Dynamite - Medicine Show

2008-03-16T15:28:00.001-07:00

Possibly my favourite BAD song ever, though there are so many good ones my opinion could change by tonight! From the debut album, This Is Big Audio Dynamite, there were many different versions of this single, today of which I've included most of the various mixes and b-sides that go with the various formats.

Medicine Show (UK Remix)
Medicine Show (US Remix)
A Party (Remix)
E=MC2 (70mm) wide screen mix
Albert Einstein Meets The Human Beatbox

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Big Audio Dynamite - I Turned Out A Punk

2008-03-14T12:14:00.001-07:00

One of their last and best singles ever. The F-Punk album was a return to Mick's punk rock style. Real drums, more guitar. The result was pretty lo-fi but absolutly wonderful. You need to check out this highly underated album. Here's the afformentioned single to give you a taste of F-Punk.

I Turned Out A Punk (US Mix)
What About Love (Extended Alternative Mix)
I Turned Out A Punk (Live Fast Live Fast Mix)

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Big Audio Dynamite - This Is Big Audio Dynamite (Super 8 Mix)

2008-03-12T18:43:00.000-07:00

Record Mirror was a pretty cool magazine. Especially when they'd tack on a free 7 inch with rare and exclusive stuff on it. This Is Big Audio Dynamite (Super 8 Mix) appeared on one such record, and I don't believe it has ever been re-issued again.
It's funny that this ep is called Free 3. Mick Jones' new band, Carbon/Silicon have a song called MPFree. O.K...not that funny...

This Is Big Audio Dynamite (Super 8 Mix)

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The Blow Monkeys - Forbidden Fruit

2008-03-10T16:15:00.000-07:00

Gotta take a short break from the Big Country posts or my girlfriend is going to kill me. Thee Seer 12 inches coming soon. In the meantime.....here is the single for the wonderful Forbidden Fruit by The Blow Monkeys. I saw them live on a bill with Simply Red and The Psychedelic Furs back in 1987. Really great show. This early cut I still believe was their best single.

Forbidden Fruit (Extended Version)
My America

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Big Country - Just A Shadow

2008-03-07T10:09:00.000-08:00

Final single from Steeltown. The drums and bass pasrt near the begining of the extended version I could loop and hear over and over. Just A Shadow is also one of my top 10 Big Country songs ever. I met the band in 1986 and told Stuart I loved Winter Sky (the b-side) and he was so shocked and happy. He didn't think anyone knew that song at all, of course we did.

Just A Shadow (Extended Version)
Winter Sky

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Big Country - Where The Rose Is Sown

2008-03-05T16:44:00.001-08:00

Second single from Steeltown. In my top 5 all time Big Country favourites for sure. Amazing guitar work from Adamson and Watson. Lots of Cha's and so on and so on. A stone cold classic. Nice instrumental Bass Dance which goes into the other extra track, Belief In The Small Man quite nicely.

Where The Rose Is Sown (Extended Version)
Bass Dance
Belief In The Small Man

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Big Country - East Of Eden

2008-03-01T22:52:00.000-08:00

I just moved house yesterday so I'm pretty busy settling in and unpacking but still wanted to do a post today so here it is. Short and sweet. East Of Eden was the first single from Big Country's second album Steeltown which is my favourite BC LP. It debued at numero uno and rightly so. The extended version is awesome and is backed by an awesome cover of Roxy Music's Prairie Rose. Love how near the end of it Stuart sings a line from their own song, Tall Ships Go.

East Of Eden (Extended Version)
Prairie Rose

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Big Country - Wonderland

2008-02-28T19:42:00.001-08:00

Wonderland was released as a single to bridge the gap between The Crossing, and what was to come next, the amazing Steeltown album. I remember it well when this came out. I was sick and home from school and there was no way I could go downtown to the Record Pedler and pick up the import that I know they had got in that day. However, my Dad stopped by the Pedler and brought it home from work with him that evening. I was stoked and listened to it over and over.

There were many different versions of the single in 7, 12 and promo formats for different regions. Some included tracks that had appeared on other singles already, but there was some unheard gems that have become favourites. Wonderland extended version is awesome. The b-side was an instrumental called Giant. The Canadian ep had All Fall Together which was another version of Giant but with lyrics. I also had the double 7'' which included and awesome live version of Lost Patrol. Enjoy.

Wonderland (Extended Version)
Giant
All Fall Together
Lost Patrol (Live)

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Big Country - Chance

2008-02-26T20:52:00.001-08:00

Fourth and final single from The Crossing LP. I really dug the plaid shirts and knickers and stuff but the lads did suffer from some fashion faux paux' like the Glasgow Vice look from The Seer era, Bruce Watson's Def Lep for King Of Emotion, and absolutly no excuse for the white ball huggers Stuart sports in the video for Chance. Top tune though!

Here you'll get the 12 inch extended mix of Chance, a live cover of Tracks Of My Tears, and a song that didn't make it on The Crossing LP, but is called The Crossing.
Also thrown in for good measure, the 7 inch mix of Chance which is different from both the 12 inch and album versions.

Chance (Extended Version)
Tracks Of My Tears (Live)
The Crossing
Chance (7" Remix)

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Big Country - In A Big Country

2008-02-25T18:04:00.000-08:00

The one that BC got branded a one hit wonder for. In the USA of course. Their second album Steeltown entered the charts at #1 in the UK, and at least up until The Seer they could draw 15,000 people in Toronto! Big Country deserved the attention though, and IABC is another classic that will live forever. No one else sounded like this. Expansive, anthemic, the bagpipe guitars, the thunderous drums, the hooks, the Cha's! Big Country reeled me in with this and never let me go. Here you get the 12 inch Pure Mix, one of my fave b-sides, All Of Us, and Heart And Soul.

In A Big Country (Pure Mix)
All Of Us
Heart And Soul

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Big Country - Fields Of Fire

2008-02-24T19:59:00.001-08:00

Second single, Fields Of Fire is an absolute classic, and so is the b-side, early live favourite, Angle Park. Fields Of Fire is presented here in all of it's extended 12 inch glory.

Fields Of Fire (Alternative Mix)
Angle Park

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Big Country - Harvest Home

2008-02-24T16:36:00.001-08:00

Big Country 1982-1986 were the best band ever! This is their first single, Harvest Home. This version being different than the version that appeared on their debut LP, The Crossing. The b-side, Balcony, made it's way on to The Against All Odds soundtrack, and Flag Of Nations is maybe the only early release to have keyboards. Overall, a killer introduction.

Harvest Home
Balcony
Flag Of Nations

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Finally....The Best Of 2007!

2008-01-16T21:45:00.000-08:00

You thought it wasn't gonna happen but how could it not. It was a tough year but I found 20 good reasons to still love music in 2007. This is subject to change....

#1 Kings Of Leon - Because Of The Times (LP)

Undoubtbly the record that had the biggest impact on me last year. It got me through a rough patch and will be forever grateful to Kings Of Leon for it. Getting to see them live at SXSW at the hight of my mania over this record was an extra added bonus earlier in the year. This is one of my favourites of the last 10 years! Special mention goes to the albums' singles b-sides, My Third House, Woo Hoo and that great remix of My Party.

#2 Glasvegas - Daddy's Gone (Single)

Late in the year discovery and the better for it. Probably single of the year. Another victory for the Scotts. Can't wait for the full-length.

#3 Phantom Planet - Tour EP

Still waiting for the follow up to their amazing self titled 3rd album, this 4 track tour ep will do just fine to tide me over for a bit more. The lead-off track Leader is so good, Rivers could take a few notes, and the 3rd song, Too Much Too Often is the Longpigs resurrected. That's a good thing by the way.

#4 Manic Street Preachers - You're Love Alone Is Not Enough (Single)

I liked Send Away The Tigers but this song stood out by far and I couldn't stop listening to it over and over. Even the instrumental version. (which I lost so if anyone has it.....)

#5 Babyshambles - Delivery (Single)

Shotter's Nation was a bit shoddy, yet Babyshambles continue to put out great singles. Delivery is their best yet.

#6 Ted Leo/Pharmacists - Living With The Living (LP)

The day Ted Leo stops making great records is the day Bruce Springsteen covers Warrent's Cherry Pie!

#7 GoodBooks - Control (LP)

Best new band of the year? 4 smashing singles and an incredible debut from the next great British hope. Bloc Party eat your hearts out!

#8 Super Furry Animals - Hey Venus (LP)

My favourite band ever so this was gonna be in whether it was good or not. But it's good, really good, SUPER good! Run-Away is classic Furries at their best. A return to the I can listen to this whole thing through.

#9 Charlotte Hatherley - The Deep Blue (LP)

Not as immediate as Grey Will Fade, but nobody is making pop records like this. Her guitar playing is awesome and she worked with Andy from XTC so she's in the top 10 just for that.

#10 Devo - Watch Us Work It (Digital Single)

You heard this in that Telus commercial, I think it was Telus. A brand new Devo song that sounds like vintage Duty Now For The Future. This totally makes up for Total Devo. And no other act on this list has an action figure.

#11 The Electric Soft Parade - No Need To Be Downhearted (LP)

Finally got to see them live this year...and TWICE! First single, If That's The Case Then I Don't Know has the best riff of the year and they covered a Sparks song on 7'' . Super nice blokes as well.

#12 Apartment - Fall Into Place (Single)

Maybe this was the Telus commercial. Could be The Kooks but a bit of a Smiths thingy. In fact, I could have seen Red Autumn Fall doing this. Would've made em' huge.

#13 Ra Ra Riot - EP

Not so much the EP but the most surprisingly great new live band I saw this year. I was moved and I bought the 7''. Recording they're debut right now.

#14 Ash - Twilight Of The Innocents (LP)

It kinda sucks that Charlotte splits and THEN the band go back from metal to pop. Not as good as Chaz' solo output but a return to the Ash I loved for the first few albums of their long career.

#15 Tegan And Sara - Back In Your Head (Single)

I liked The Con but this song makes me so jealous and I frickin' wish I wrote it. Probably should be called Stuck In Your Head.

#16 The Warlocks - Heavy Deavy Skull Lover (LP)

The cover is wicked, they have 2 drummers, and you've never heard them.

#17 Arctic Monkeys - Favourite Worst Nightmare (LP)

Their Room On Fire? Here cause I don't want to make enemies with the NME.

#18 The Fiery Furnaces - Widow City(LP)

There is no other album out there that sounds like this. It sounds like Led Zeppelin covering Devo songs sung by your strange neighbour that you're slighty afraid of yet attracted to....I don't know what I'm getting on about here. Just check out Duplexes Of The Dead.

#19 The Arcade Fire - Neon Bible (LP)

I don't know why I didn't get it right off the bat but I know this is a great record.

#20 Radiohead - In Rainbows (LP)

Just because of the pay what you want thing!

I'm puttin' my money on Glasvegas and Phantom Planet both being in the best of 2008 but we'll just have to wait and see. Have a great New Year!

Kings Of Remix

2007-10-03T13:11:00.000-07:00

With 2007 coming closer to end, Kings Of Leon have been holding on steady with the best album of the year, Because Of The Times. I am looking forward to my Best Of 2007 post which will come in a couple months. In the meantime, here's a few Kings remixes which are few and far between to enlighten you. The Razz Dub comes the rare Four Kicks 10" vinyl. The mix of Milk is a from a rare promo and My Party an unreleased commisioned mix. If you know something I don't, let me know.

Kings Of Leon Remixes

Razz (Dub Mix)
Milk (Strech And Vern Remix)
My Party (Kenna And Chad Hugo Remix)

Penny Lane

2007-09-24T10:38:00.000-07:00

Penny Lane was a record store in Toronto that I frequented alot at the height of Madchester and well into the mid-nineties Brit-Pop days. They had all the latest British imports, t-shirts, posters and much more. After a bit of a browse, the older English chap that owned and ran the place (along with his young Asian beauty of a partner) would pipe up with a, "Have you heard the new Gene?" or, "Have you heard the new Beautiful South?" One of it's best features was the score of cassette bootlegs that were hidden behind the counter, but if you were in the know, he'd pull em' out for you. At $10 bucks a pop it seemed reasonable and today's music is from one said cassette. The Stone Roses Live At Alexandra Palace. The quality is not so great, but the fact that this period of the Roses never made it to these shores makes hearing the songs live a whole new experience. The segue from Where Angels Play into Shoot You Down is worth a listen regardless for Reni's impeccable drumming style carries the band live and when the boys made it North America, Robbie's style just didn't do it! Unfortunately the last 3 songs are absent from this ancient cassette boot, so if you have these, please send them to me! However, the tape ends with a small portion of an early interview which is included here. So put on your flares on, grab some maracas and remember, "It's not where you're from, it's where you're at!"

The Stone Roses - Live At Alexandra Palace November 18th 1989

01 She Bangs The Drums
02 Standing Here
03 Where Angels Play->Shoot You Down
04 Elephant Stone
05 Waterfall
06 Sugar Spun Sister
07 Made Of Stone
08 Going Down
09 Sally Cinnamon
10 I Wanna Be Adored
11 I Am The Resurrection->Fools Gold
12 Interview

Ra Ra Riot!

2007-09-19T12:32:00.000-07:00

My friend Graham took me to see the Editors the other night. They were pretty good but about halfway through their set it became clear it was all a bit samey, and had to wait til near the end to hear their best song, Munich. Before them was Biffy Clyro and have absolutly nothing to say about them other then it was a shame the wonderfull Ra Ra Riot didn't have their slot and play to more people. They were first on and totally blew me away! Maybe like The Arcade Fire hosting a Smiths vs New Order competion wrapped up in a Werther’s Original? They have a 7” which I grabbed at the show, an EP, and will be recording their debut album next month. The recordings so far don't do them justice so go check your local listings and be sure to go check their live set out.

Ra Ra Riot Each Year
Ra Ra Riot Can You Tell

Reading Present!

2007-09-16T16:13:00.000-07:00

Music For The Amorphous Body Study Center has always been a favourite of the countless Stereolab releases spread amongst the various split, 7", 10", 12", limited edition tour only maxi ep.....you get the picture. So I was thrilled back in 95 with that particular weeks issue of Melody Maker (the August 26th 1995 issue to be exact) came with an awesome free cassette, Reading Present. Featuring exclusive tracks by performers from the impending Reading Festival, Bjork, The Bluetones, The Boo Radleys, Teenage Fanclub, Heavy Stereo, Soundgarden, and of course, Stereolab. This version of Amorphous' Pop Quiz was recorded for Mark Findlay's Sunday Session Show (Radio Fourth) at Funny Farm studios near Edinburgh.

Stereolab Pop Quiz (Session)