artist spotlight: Washed Out

Because I have just finished my first semester at uni ever (I'm a late starter), I am in total relaxation mode. This week I plan to do the absolute minimum when it comes to physical activity, a challenge that I accept wholeheartedly before I venture back to work next week... Anyway, I thought I'd write a post about one of my favourite dreamy bands, Washed Out who are probably one of the best bands to listen to when... well doing nothing.

Washed Out stems from the brain child Ernest Greene. Greene started out in June 2009 messing around with sounds and eventually posting them online. He was soon on the radars of music bloggers  and there begun the "chillwave" musical journey that is Washed Out.

His first two EPs were released in August and September 2009 and have garnered Greene quite a reasonable following.

His EP, Life of Leisure is a mix of dreamy chillwave with distinct summery and dance-y vibes similar to the ilk of Neon Indian. Notable tracks include "New Theory" and "Feel it All Around". He has had great success with touring all around the world and I had the pleasure of seeing them last December at the Oxford Art Factory in Sydney and met the band after spending an hour or so discussing different keyboards and synths and all sorts of things - a very lovely and friendly bunch of people who make great music - all good in my books!

One of my most anticipated album releases Within and Without is due to drop on the 12th of July, I can't wait to hear the new tunes the band has come up with but here is a delicious teaser of "Eyes Be Closed"

The Life of Leisure EP is available for purchase on iTunes and the album will be out next month.

What do you think of Washed Out? Send me some feedback!

Until next time, Farväl.

Anticipation - Bon Iver

Hello folks,
I thought I'd write a quick post about the anticipation surrounding Bon Iver's new album and its teasingly close but oh so far release date!

I don't think I have ever been so excited for an album release and I adore music and I must admit, 2011 has been and continues to be a great year for music and new releases... ANYWAY

Since releasing his debut album,

"For Emma, Forever Ago" in 2008, and his subsequent 2009 EP, "Blood Bank", Justin Vernon's success has soared and his music has struck a chord with many, many people. His music is filled with ethereal, dreamy and at times heart wrenching and mostly accoustic tunes.

2011's "Bon Iver" is his highly anticipated sophomore album. I for one am so excited - the teaser Vernon gave us with his release of "Calgary" (available for purchase on iTunes) from the new album has left no doubt that the album will be brilliant.

"joy, it’s all founded
pincher with the skin inside
you pinned me with your black sphere eyes
you know that all the rope’s untied
I was only for to die beside."

Vernon is one of the most interesting vocalists, his music envokes a certain ache in you, I mean, who could forget the delicate strains of "Skinny Love" from his debut? He has been hailed a lyrical genius and I have to admit I wholeheartedly agree.

"I told you to be patient I told you to be fine
I told you to be balanced I told you to be kind
Now all your love is wasted then who the hell was I?
Cause now I'm breaking at the britches
And at the end of all your lines."

So for my most anticipated album release, come on June 17!

What are some of your anticipated albums? Did they live up to expectations?

Farväl. Until next time.

Artist Spotlight: Guineafowl

Hello there everyone!


I thought I'd start this week off with a music spotlight then do my usual Tuesday Treasures (anything to keep me procrastinating).

Oh my! he is very cute!

I have been listening to this band, Guineafowl a lot recently - you could say that I have fallen in love with them! Anyway I thought I'd share this wonderful Australian band with you:

Named after lead singer Sam Yeldham's nickname given to him by a teacher at school, Guineafowl are 6-piece band from Sydney who started life in Sam's living room.


  Their debut EP, "Hello Anxiety" was released on February 18th (2011) by Dew Process.

An impressive debut by Guineafowl - they are only going to get better and I can't wait!


"Hello Anxiety is quietly confident, strangely beautiful and totally anthemic – sparkling electro pop with more than enough drive to get you on the dancefloor." Brag


click here to read a sweet little interview Sam did with Alphabet Pony

Now for some eye + ear candy!

Botanist

In Our Circles (My favourite!)