speed of dark

Here's a little support for five local favorites of mine who will be appearing at SXSW or the vicinity from March 14-18. Each of the songs I've posted is only one of a bunch that are in frequent rotation on my players. You may not be able to see them in Austin, but be sure to check their MySpace pages for their current tour schedules because they may be coming your way.

Division Day

I may be slow getting on the bandwagon for Division Day, but now that I'm here I'm enthusiastic. I have not heard a bad song yet from this foursome. As evidence of their goodness, their 2006 album, Bear Trap Island is currently sold out, but their website says it will be available again soon. I'll be buying it. Their previous album, The Mean Way In is available on itunes.

Division Day: Colorguard from Bear Trap Island (2006)

website | myspace | sxsw
Also touring Arizona, Texas, California, and Las Vegas



The Broken West

I'm late catching onto The Broken West as well, as they've been all over the music blogs for a while. This bright jangle-pop is just the antidote for all those dark, minor chords I seem to sink into. Great driving music here.

The Broken West: Brass Ring from I Can't Go On I'll Go On (2007)

website | myspace | sxsw
Tour schedule covers too many states to list. These guys are all over the U.S. this spring.
Buy at itunes, emusic



The Oohlas

Praise has been nearly unanimous regarding the impact of this fun-loving threesome who regularly post photo contests on their MySpace page. Humorous lyrics and catchy melodies by Ollie Stone are matched by the solid talents of brothers Greg (Everclear) and Matt Eklund, making the Oohlas one of the brightest stars to watch.

The Oohlas: Tripped from Best Stop Pop (2006)

website | myspace | sxsw
Extensive tour schedule includes dates in several states as well as California
itunes



GLISS



I featured GLISS in a post in January. I love the echo-y sound and the heart-broken cracked voice.

GLISS: Blue Sky from Love the Virgins (2006)

website | band blog |myspace



Mar 15 2007 1:30P SXSW - Whoopsy Magazine Party @ Trophey's
Mar 16 2007 6:30P SXSW - Congress Day Party

Tour schedule includes Colorado, Washington, and Oregon
Several albums available on itunes, emusic




Le Meu Le Purr


Their cartoon-character-quote name was the initial attraction (remember Pepe Le Peu?), but there's lots more to like in this Ventura band's solid-rock sound and their no-holds-barred attack.

Le Meu Le Purr: Sharing Orchids from Sweet Smell of Asphalt (2004)

website | myspace | sxsw
Also touring this month in Colorado, Oklahoma, Arkansas, and Texas
Buy at itunes