Wednesday, January 25, 2012

Imogen Heap - Xizi She Knows


Heapsong number five has arrived!  Imogen Heap continues her one song at a time recording process with "Xizi She Knows" and there's a music video, too.  This single hit the internet on the 24th and illustrates her six week visit to Hangzhou, China.  The footage seen in the video is part of a soon to be released documentary film about Imogen's stay at Hangzhou.  Filled with regional sounds and instruments, you can hear the city's influence on the track.  Check out the video below.


For more information on the origin and formation of "Xizi She Knows", you can visit the #heapsong5 minisite.  To download a variety of "Xizi" packages in different formats, look over here.

Tuesday, January 24, 2012

Sleigh Bells - Comeback Kid


The first official single from Sleigh Bells' upcoming album, Reign Of Terror, was released just last week, and today we have a video.  The duo managed to mix the feeling of MTV in the 90's with their signature style.  The song itself is definitely a sign that the group may be moving away from the Treats sound a little more than previously expected.  Unfortunately, you'll have to wait a bit longer for the full record, as Reign Of Terror has been pushed back to February 21.  You can download "Comeback Kid" here, and check out the video after the jump...

Wednesday, January 18, 2012

MNDR - #1 In Heaven


Just the other day, I was wondering what ever happened to MNDR's soon-to-be album.  That very same morning, the pop act debuted a new single through a phone number that would stream the song when called.  With the fear of overwhelming phone fees in mind, I didn't make the call.  Thankfully, the single is now available across the internet, sans iPhone.

"#1 In Heaven" continues the streak of MNDR's E.P.E..  It's pop in the vein of fellow internet favorite, Robyn.  There's also a striking music video to enhance your listening experience.  Directed by Cody Critcheloe of SSION, the video channels some grungy fashion and long forgotten transitions.  It's a bit cheesy in that ironic way.  Check it out below...


"#1 In Heaven" is now available on iTunes (US link).  Look out for MNDR's upcoming album later this year.

Thursday, January 12, 2012

The Kills - The Last Goodbye (VIDEO)


Blood Pressures was one of last year's most exceptional records, and today, The Kills released a music video for my favorite track on the album.  "The Last Goodbye" is a Moon River-esque ballad and unlike the band's usual material, the single is built upon a piano and strings.

The accompanying video is directed by Samantha Morton, and it happens to be her first music video.  The video is a perfectly simple yet effective concept, as Alison Mosshart and Jamie Hince sit in a tight photo booth.  Everything takes off from there.  Mosshart gives some insight to the song saying, "Life goes on.  It starts off being the end of the world but then ends up alright.".  Watch it below and see for yourself...


The Kills are currently prepping for their US tour.  Head over here for a complete list of dates.  Blood Pressures is out now and can be found here.

Sunday, January 8, 2012

School Of Seven Bells - The Night


School Of Seven Bells' third album, Ghostory, is due to be released on February 28.  This record brings change to the band.  What was once a trio is now a duo.  The group currently consists of Benjamin Curtis and Alejandra Deheza, as Claudia Deheza took an exit for "personal reasons". You would think that a departure would stir up some problems, but almost two years after their previous release, Ghostory is shaping up to be quite the album.  The cover artwork alone is something to be mentioned, never mind the music.


"The Night" is the lead single and opening track to Ghostory.  The single's glossy sound wouldn't feel out of place in an 80's film starring an edgier Molly Ringwald, perhaps during the opening credits.  A rapid beat during the chorus adds just enough power to the song.  It's a breezy slice of dream pop.

Ga ahead and stream or download "The Night" below.  Ghostory is out February 28 on Vagrant Records. You can pre-order the record here.

Monday, January 2, 2012

Scissor Sisters - Shady Love


Scissor Sisters' 2010 album, Night Work, was a masterpiece made for the dancefloor.  One would never guess that the follow up single would be "Shady Love", a collaboration with Azealia Banks.  What's even stranger is that Jake Shears is doing all of the rapping.  The single premiered earlier today on BBC Radio 1 and the internet kind of went a crazy for it.

I really had no idea what to think of the track upon first listen, but now I'm addicted to it.  I love how it's a complete slap in the face to what listeners were expecting.  The music video is also quite the sight.  You can check it out on NME or stream the track below.  Remember to keep an eye out for Scissor Sisters' upcoming album later this year.