The National Play New Songs

 

It’s been a while since the release of The National’s last album High Violet but recently they’ve decided to surprise us by playing 5 new songs and possibly hinting at the release of a new album some time soon. On the Toronto show Q live the band performed the songs “Rylan” and “i need my girl”. You can listen to them here. In England the band performed 3 new songs including “Lola”, “Sullivan”, and “Prime” you can watch the footage below.

Bad Books Second Album

 

So the band Bad Books, a collaboration between Manchester Orchestra and Kevin Devine have released their second album simply titled II. The band released the album back in October and if you haven’t had a chance to check it out you definitely should. Most collaborations tend to fall flat but these guys are able to come together almost like a sense of brotherhood in order to put the album together. Check it out here. Bad Books II

Local Natives Play New Song

Local Natives have played a new song live on the BBC this week. The song is called “Heavy Feet” and they play it along with “Breakers” on the live session. Both tracks will appear on their upcoming album Hummingbird. The song sounds great and makes me look forward even more to the album coming out. You can check out the song here around the 2:42 mark of the whole show.

New Song From Vampire Weekend

So Jimmy Kimmel has been taping his show in Brooklyn all week and Vampire Weekend decided to stop by on Halloween and play a new song. The song is called “Unbelievers”  and while the song is pretty catchy the scary Halloween makeup the band is wearing kind of throws things off. Here’s hoping the band decides to play the song in some more traditional getup in the future.

"Breakers" From Local Natives

Local Natives have released the first single from their upcoming album Hummingbird out January 29th. The song is called “Breakers” and definitely has a much fuller sound than their last album Gorilla Manor. This might have something to do with the fact that their tour mates have been Arcade Fire and The National. The chorus of the song gives the song a great boost and shot of energy. I can’t wait to hear what else the new album has in store.

Hear Ben Gibbard Solo Album In Its Entirety

Ben Gibbard has made his upcoming solo album Former Lives available to listen to in its entirety on YouTube. The album isn’t officially released until next week but you can check it out here and get the track listing below.

01 Shepherd’s Bush Lullaby
02 Dream Song
03 Teardrop Windows
04 Bigger Than Love
05 Lily
06 Something’s Rattling (Cowpoke)
07 Duncan, Where Have You Gone?
08 Oh, Woe
09 A Hard One to Know
10 Lady Adelaide
11 Broken Yolk in Western Sky
12 I’m Building a Fire

Arcade Fire Perform New Song

Arcade Fire performed a new song called “Crucified Again” in New York on Thursday. There were reports that the band had performed this song earlier this year in Haiti but this is the first video of the song being performed. Check it out below and see what you think!

New Benjamin Gibbard Song

Benjamin Gibbard has released another song from his new solo album Former Lives out October 16th. The song is called “Bigger Than Love” and it also features singer Aimee Mann. The song is another diary entry from the lyricists who can mix emotions and narratives so well. check out the song on NPR and see what you think.

Full Band of Horses Album Available To stream

So the album doesn’t officially drop until September 18th but the band has made their full album Mirage Rock available to stream on SoundCloud today. You can hear all 11 tracks right now for free. Not much more to add to that so let me know what you think of their effort. 
Mirage Rock Full Stream

Another Single From Band of Horses' Mrage Rock

Band of Horses have decided to release another single from their album Mirage Rock out September 18th. The song is called “Sloe Cruel Hands of Time” and differs very much from the first single “Knock Knock”. This second single displays the band more subtle side and offers another glimpse into what we can expect in a couple of weeks. Check it out and see what you think.

The Vaccines Full Album Available To Stream

The Vaccines new album Come Of Age is available to be streamed in its entirety before its release date on September 3rd.The album has a louder sound than their first effort did but with the same sort of attitude-infused hooks that have attracted many people to the band. Check out the full album in its entirety available at Listen Before You Buy. Let me know what you think.

Stream The Avett Brothers' New Album

The Avett Brothers have a new album coming out on September 11th called The Carpenter. The folk/bluegrass group continues their knack for creating songs with meaningful themes and yet catchy hooks at the same time. The album continues their journey from the band’s last effort with songs that catchy hooks mixed in with more introspective fare. You can stream the entire album on NPR before its release here at this link. i think the band has another winner on their hands, let me know what you think.

Ben Gibbard Releases New Song From Solo Album

Ben Gibbard has had side projects (The Postal Service) and has released solo singles on his own before but now he has finally decided to come out with a full solo album without Death Cab For Cutie. the album will be released October 16th but until then he has unveiled the song called “Teardrop Windows” to show us what we can expect. The title of the album will be Former Lives and you can check out the song here and see what you think.

"Mirage Rock" Band of Horses' New Album

We finally have an expected release date for Band of Horses anticipated 4th studio album. The album Mirage Rock is expected to be released September 18th and from the track listing the song “Long Vows” which they debuted earlier in concert has made the album. Also, the band has released a new song called “Knock Knock”which shows off the lighter side of the band. Lets face it, no matter how many times this band changes members can they really do any wrong?

New Song From Muse

Muse has put out a new song from their upcoming album The 2nd Law. The album should be out October 2nd and the song the band just put out is called “Madness”. You may have already heard their song “Survival” performed at the closing ceremonies for the Olympics. The band keeps diversifying their sound and going deeper into their creative tool bags. Check out the song and see what you think.

I Will Wait By Mumford and Sons

Mumford and Sons have released the audio for a new song coming off their upcoming album. The song is called “I Will Wait”and the new album is called Babel and will be released on September 24th. The song sounds like the band is picking up exactly where they left off with their last album. Thumping drums, banjo, guitar and horns are what you are going to get and the distinctive voice of Marcus Mumford. If you wanted more of what these guys put out before well then you’re in luck so check out the song here.

New Song From Interpol Lead Singer

Paul Banks, the lead singer of Interpol, has released a new song presumably from an upcoming solo album. The song is called “The Base” and while it has hints of Interpol but you can definitely tell that this is more of Banks’ own style. It’s a solid song and certainly something that should make you curious about what a full album could entail check it out at the link here.

"Yet Again" From Grizzly Bear

Grizzly Bear has released some of their first music in over 3 years. the band will be putting out a new album later this year called Shields. Well the band released a new song first played on the BBC entitled “Yet Again”. So far it sounds like the wait was well worth it for the band’s upcoming album. The song has a relaxed an chill feeling with the chorus really coming through. check out the song below and let me know what you think of what’s coming up Grizzly Bear.

The Killers Release Runaways

The Killers have released their new song “Runaways” from their upcoming album Battle Born. While the song does somewhat remind me of their album Day and Age, The Killers have once again put a rock song that is just the right amount of ballad and great guitar riffs. Brandon Flowers does what he does best and fans should be very pleased. after hearing this song I’m looking forward to what the rest of the album has to offer. Check out the song below!

Octopus From Bloc Party

Bloc Party are back with their fourth album entitled Four (catchy) and have released the first single from that album. The song is called “Octopus” and reminds you more of their album Silent Alarm than their most recent endeavor. This doesn’t mean that the band has regressed, in fact I think this song is great and the band seems more confident in what they can do. My hopes for Four are high and so far Bloc Party is off to a great start.

The Killers' Upcoming Album and New Single Release

The Killers have released some artwork for their new single “Runaways” which will be released on July 10th. The single will be from their new album called Battle Born which is going to be released in the Fall. The band have also released a trailer for their upcoming album that has some samples of what we can expect. OK everyone get excited now!

Band of Horses Debuts New Song

Band of Horses debuted a new song when they performed in a live session for MTV Brazil. The song is tentatively titled “Everything”. The Band is currently working on their 4th LP. By the two songs we’ve heard so far it seems like we’re going to be in for some more great stuff from these guys. Check out the song on Consequence of Sound here and see what you think.

Self Titled Release From The Temper Trap

The Tempter Trap have released their self-titled second album this week. While their isn’t really any song on the album as catchy as “Sweet Disposition”, the band does show you that they have places where they can grow. These guys are talented and they do put together some very good songs on the album. You can stream the album in its entirety here. You can also check out the song trembling hands below and let me know what you think.

The National Meets Game Of Thrones

So if you haven’t checked out the HBO show Game Of Thrones you probably should because one day all of your friends are going to be talking about it and you are going to be completely clueless. Well the National being the great band that they are have decided to lend their talents to the show by providing the song called “The Rains of Castamere”. Only The National could pull off the dark and brooding ballad with the lead singer’s deep bass vocals booming through the sing. It’s hard to think of who could have done a better job with the song then these guys. Check it out and see what you think.

Bloc Party Releases Trailer For New Album Four

Bloc Party is finally back after their really long hiatus and they are going to release a new album entitled Four. The title is fitting as this will be the band’s fourth album and it will be released on August 20th. The band has released a trailer for the new album which shows recording sessions and has snippets of new songs from the album. Check out the trailer above!

Best Coast Release New Album

Best Coast has just released their new album The Only Place and the California kids have their west coast vibe down to a science on this album. But the band can also put out songs with heartfelt lyrics that really move you. Check out the song “How They Want Me to Be” below for a great example of that.

Saint Motel Finally Have New Album Release

So Saint Motel have been releasing only singles as of late but now they have finally put out that they are going to release a full length album. The album entitled Voyeur is going to be released July 10th. To celebrate the band has also made available another new single called “1997"″. The song has a slightly nostalgic feel to it and I’m certain that fans will enjoy it. Check out the song here and get excited for the new album from Saint Motel!

Listen To Passion Pit's Take A Walk

Passion Pit have put out a new single to their album Gossamer which is going to be released on July 24th. The song is entitled “Take A Walk” and is surprisingly political but has a great stomping beat to it. Not really what I expected as a follow up from the band but I can’t say that I am disappointed. I actually think the song is very good. Take a look and listen to “Take A Walk” below.

Band of Horses Play New Song and Plan New Album

At Lollapalooza in Brazil a few weeks ago Band of Horses played a new song and in a press release the band said that they were working on their 4th LP. The song is a melancholy tune that fits in perfectly with the style of the band so far. This has made me really excited for what the band is working on in the studio right now. The track is untitled but fans have dubbed it “Long Vows”. Check it out and see what you think.

Lazuli by Beach House and Exclusive b-side

Beach House have released another single off of their upcoming album Bloom entitled “Lazuli”. The song starts off with a sort of muzzled synth-tone but then quickly morphs into something more forceful and explosive. Almost like an overwhelming burst of colors. You will definitely feel satisfied after hearing this song. The band also has made the b-side “Equal Mind” available for streaming. This song will not be on the album but you can check it out here instead or pick up the 7-inch vinyl at your record store.

Dive Into The Band Dive

So you probably have never heard of Dive before but that’s okay as that’s why people read blogs, to find out about new stuff that they haven’t stumbled upon themselves. Well Dive is a Brooklyn based band that separates itself from the numerous other ones with its guitar-driven bleary eyed riffs. Their song “How Long Have You Known” puts lead singer Smith’s melodic vocals against a backdrop of breezy full-bodied instrumentation that leaves the listener in a very chill mood after hearing it. So check out Dive’s “How Long Have You Known” here and let me know what you think.

New Silversun Pickups

The Silversun Pickups are getting to release their new album Neck of The Woods on May 8th and for the occasion they have decided to release a new track. The track is called “Bloody Mary (Nerve Endings)”. I happen to think that this track is very good and you can see that the band had a lot of time to explore and think about what they wanted on this new album. Check out the song below and let me know what you think of Silversun’s new offering.

Delta Spirit Releases Delta Spirit

Delta Spirit have released their self-titled third album and while lyrically it is not on the same level as their last album History From Below it does show the range that the band has and the different places they can go. This album focuses much more on the instrumentation although there are still tracks such as “Home” and “California” that show the great lyricist that Matthew Vasquez is. Hopefully this will get them out there as becoming one of the more respected groups of indie rock as they clearly show that they can rely on more than acoustic guitars and poignant vocals. You can check out their entire album for free as the have it available for streaming on their official website check it out and see if you like them as much as I do.

Stream Port of Morrow From The Shins

So the Shins who just performed last week on Saturday Night Live have put up their whole album Port of Morrow on their website for you to stream. The album officially comes out next week but why not check it out right here from their site now. Enjoy!

Beach House: Myth

Beach House have just released a new song called “Myth” which hopefully signals that the band is on their way to releasing another album soon. The song echos in various layers with a steady guitar riff and drum beat to back up the smoky vocals of Victoria Legrand. The sound of the song is surprisingly big, you wouldn’t think that would happen coming from this band but it absolutely works here. Enjoy the song below.

Arcade Fire Song For The Hunger Games

So The Hunger Games is a popular book series that is getting its movie version released this month. Full disclosure, I haven’t read the books mainly because I like to avoid anything that starts to become crazy popular no matter what it is. Back on topic though, Arcade Fire who haven’t released any new music in almost a year have just released the song “Abraham’s Daughter” which will be on the movie soundtrack for The Hunger Games. It doesn’t sound like the stuff from their award winning album The Suburbs but still quite cool nonetheless. Check out the song on Listen Before You Buy here.

The Shins: Bait and Switch

The Shins have released a video for a new song off their upcoming album Port of Morrow called “Bait and Switch”. The song has a sort of island vibe to it with the same great vocals and guitar play that we are used to hearing from the Shins. If you can’t get enough of the Shins new music they will be on an upcoming episode of Saturday Night Live with Jonah Hill hosting.

Some Honest Feedback From Saint Motel

Saint Motel have released another new song entitled “Honest Feedback”. The song fits perfectly with the bands happy-go-lucky style of music. This song will definitely put you into a mode that makes you feel ready to celebrate the weekend, even though today is Monday. This is the third single the band has released separately recently, a few more songs and these guys have got themselves a full length album. Judging from what I hear they need to work on that ASAP, but that’s just my honest feedback.Check out their song from Nylon Magazine's site here.

Stream The New Andrew Bird Album

NPR has made Bird’s new album Break It Yourself available for streaming in its entirety. The album starts of quietly and then builds into a great blooming achievement that continues to show off what a great talent Bird is. There are not many real “artists” today like their used to be so getting to experience one that is clearly in his prime is a treat for the listening audience. Check out the link here to Stream the album on NPR’s First Listen.

Arctic Monkeys Ask: R U Mine

So the Arctic Monkeys aren’t letting a newly released album stop their creative juices from flowing. They have just released a stand alone single entitled “R U Mine”. The song takes things away from all the albums that the Monkeys have released so far. It has a kick ass beat and lyrics that just fit so perfectly well. The video for this song is just as entertaining and also features a cameo from Steve Jones from the Sex Pistols. Fitting, if you really think about it.

New Good Old War

Indie group Good Old War are back with their third album following their self-titled 2012 release. The new album will be called Come Back As Rain and the song they have just released is called “Can’t Go Home”. The band mixes their folksy acoustic guitar and melancholy sentiment into a song that leaves you with a joyous feeling of what it’s like to come back home after a long time away. Consequence of Sound has a stream of the song and also the track list for the new album. Check out the song here Good Old War-Can’t Go Home

"Primitive Girl" From M. Ward

M Ward’s new album A Wasteland Companion hits stores April 10th but he has released another new track from the album called “Primitive Girl”. This is a very upbeat and poppy tune from the artist. This song actually feels like the most appropriate song for Spring, a warm weather toe tapper. Check out the song below and also check the track list for the new album.

A Wasteland Companion Tracklist: 
01. Clean Slate (For Alex & El Goodo)
02. Primitive Girl
03. Me and My Shadow
04. Sweetheart
05. I Get Ideas
06. The First Time I Ran Away
07. A Wasteland Companion
08. Watch the Show
09. There’s a Key
10. Crawl After You
11. Wild Goose
12. Pure Joy

Stream the New Fanfarlo Album

Our friends at NPR have given us another new musical treat this week by allowing us to hear the entire new Fanfarlo album before its release on Feb 28th. The album entitled Rooms Filled With Light is another good rock-folk album from the group. The band has a way of making a song that would otherwise be melancholy into a joyous experience with a great slow build that only emphasizes the impact. The band knows exactly how to get your attention and with this album I know they surely will. Check out the new album here. Stream Fanfarlo Album

New Song From Blur

So you remember Blur, those guys that were one of the more popular British bands of the 90′s. Well recently while performing a concert in London, the band performed a new song called “Under the West Way”. This gives hope to all the Blur fans out there that a new album will definitely be on its way soon. Add in the fact that all four members of the group are coming together to perform for the first time in three years at this years Brit Awards and I absolutely feel like we will be hearing more from the band in the near future.

End of the Line For Sleigh Bells

So the title is a little misleading, "End of the Line" is actually a new song from Sleigh Bells from their forthcoming album ​Reign of Terror​. The band debuted the song last night on Saturday Night Live after performing their other new song "Comeback Kid". You can check out the new song here End of the Line . If checking out this new song isn't enough for you and waiting for February 21st to come around just won't cut it well guess what, you can stream the entire album right now from The New York Times . Listening to the album myself i give it a 7/10 meaning there is no sophomore slump here. Here's to Sleigh Bells rocking clubs and arenas for years to come.

New Grizzly Bear Side Project

Daniel Rossen of Grizzly Bear is about to release his solo album Silent Hour/Golden Mile out March 20th. He has released two songs from the album, ‘Silent song” and “Saint Nothing”. The songs shows how well Rossen infuses his dark tones with Jazz, soft piano, and haunting vocals. You feel a sot of unsettling presence when listening to his songs but you still enjoy them none the less.  Check out both of Rossen’s songs below.

New Video From M. Ward

So M. Ward has released a new video for the first single of his next album called A Wasteland Companion. The first single is called “The First Time I Ran Away”. The album is set to be released on April 10th. Nice to see Ward back after three years where he was mainly focusing on his side projects She and Him and Monsters of Folk. The track gets back to what people expect from Ward and if you were waiting for him to step back into his more folksy roots here then you will feel very happy about what you hear.With a return to guitar driven ethereal voice overtones this is the M. Ward we love.  Check out the video below.

Welcome Back Andrew Bird

So three years between albums isn’t really that long considering other layoffs but it’s still been a while and it’s nice to know that the very creative Andrew Bird will be giving us another album this year. The new album will be called Break It Yourself and will be out on March 6th. The first single from the album is “Eyeoneye” The song has chimes and whistles and all the other things you would expect from the multi-talented artist. You’ll be put into a very chill mood after listening and will also be wanting more, but for that you have to wait. Until then, check out the first single here.

Sleigh Bells: Comeback Kid

Sleigh Bells have released another new song from their upcoming album Reign of Terror. The song is called “Comeback Kid” and it has a great guitar riff and nice drum kit beat to it. While the singing is less ethereal as it is in other songs by the band it works great for the song. judging by what I’ve heard so far Reign of Terror is going to excite current fans of the band and most likely bring along new onse. Check out the song here.

New song From Sleigh Bells

So fresh off the success of their first album Sleigh Bells are back with their next upcoming album called Reign Of Terror out February 14th. They’ve released a track off the album called “Born To Lose”. The song has a nice guitar riff and the soft yet powerful vocals just add to what people already love about Sleigh Bells. Treats 2? Probably not. Just as awesome? Absolutely.

Brand New Song From The Shins

So finally 5 years after releasing their last album in 2007, the Shins are back with their new album entitled Port of Morrow out March 20th. The band has released the track “Simple Song” from their new album and if the needed 5 years to produce this I’m glad they took all the time they needed. The music landscape has changed a lot since then but The Shins lovelorn observations and catchy power-pop guitar riffs are what make them able to stay around no matter what changes around them. Check out the new song below!