When It Rains....It Pours Shows

GIFT HORSE (Photo/Travis Dorn, www.dornbrothers.com)

For some reason, it almost always happens that there's a ton of shows I really want to see all on the same night. I've blogged about my choice crisis before so no use treading down that path again. Regardless, if you're like me, you haven't been out lately for whatever reason. It's not raining right now and it's only mildly hot so get to one of these shows tonight. You won't regret it.

MELTING POINT
Our friend John Keane's band Strawberry Flats is playing tonight. Great covers in a nice venue with FOOD. Shows at the Point are almost always done before others so you could probably pop in, grab some food, watch the show, and then hop over to another show later. Trust me. Strawberry Flats + Food = AWESOME.

GEORGIA THEATRE
"Riot of Spring." This is really a must see. The Arcs with Ham 1, Gift Horse, DJ Kurt Wood and DJ Ovor rock you all night long. Here's the deal. The Arcs are giving away tickets when you buy their single at Wuxtry or Schoolkids records. You get two when you buy a single single (hehe). PLUS! Gift Horse will be streaming their show LIVE. Check their myspace for details. So if you really are too lazy to get out, you can listen online. We'll be catching up with their bassist via Flagpole's blog soon.

NEDfest
I posted on Homedrone about this earlier but it warrants another mention. If you're a serious Athens music history buff, there's really no better place for you to be than at Little Kings watching Oh-O.K. and Time Toy.

So get out there and enjoy the show(s). At least there won't be a ton of little freshmen to get in your way.

Athens Records Coming Our Way

It's summertime in the Classic City and that means two things. Tours and recording. It's been a while since I've posted the rumors floating around about some upcoming recording sessions so here's a quick rundown of what you should be looking out for. It's going to be a great year.

MODERN SKIRTS
For anyone who's been to a Skirts show in the last three months or so, you may have been treated to some new songs. Among them a great tune featuring Jay's prerecorded voice yelling "Excellent!" at random times. We've talked with the Skirts' manager Troy and he figures that the new album will be a small shock to fans of the traditional piano/guitar/vocal harmonies that have been trademarks of the band so far. Glad to hear they're not eager to stick with the same old formula.

THE WHIGS debuted some new material last night during a secret show at Tasty World.

When we caught Peter Buck of R.E.M. at the Normaltown Flyers show, he was very excited about the recordings he'd been doing that week in Athens. A little birdie tells me that about 10-12 songs were messed with during those sessions. Later on, it was reported by Paste (but Murmurs.com first!) that the boys had been recording in Portland. Lesson of the day? Don't mess with the fanbase. They've got far more time and resources. Don't forget the RECKONING release on June 23rd. The same day as...

PATTERSON HOOD's solo album, Murdering Oscar. Sounds like DBT, tastes like awesome.

CASPER AND THE COOKIES
Just saying, the new album is sounding pretty great from these two downloads I've heard so far. Fingers crossed for an album review later....

AMJ Comic: "File Under Disaster"

Happy Birthday to Us

Well, you might've noticed a slight redesign to Athens Music Junkie. It's the one year anniversary of the blog and a few of us decided that it was time for an update. In addition to our spiffy new look, we've got some great things coming up.

When I started this blog a year ago, I never imagined I'd get to do the things I have. And certainly not in this time frame. In the past year, I got to climb onstage at Athfest, witnessed two legendary bands play, and do a twenty post sprint through the Flagpole nominees.

Not to mention kidnapping R.E.M.'s bassist on his birthday and locking him in a dj booth. Or launching a youtube channel only to see said bassist's band post the videos on its site. And the tons of wonderful guests who hung out with us on Sound of the City.

We also said goodbye to two wonderful lights in the Athens music scene. And are still in disbelief. But we move onward through life because we must. We thank them for their music, their moments, and their lives.

So I'm hoping this year will be even better. Expect tons of new videos on the youtube site, massive amounts of cd and show reviews, random cartoons, a new spotlight feature on the important non-musicians of the scene, some history lessons, and so much more. Oh, and we have a growing staff. In addition to our contributing writers, welcome Ziona Kocher, graphic artist, Rebecca Kutch, illustrator, and Sofia Perea, webmaster, photographer, and writer. And hey, we're always looking for writers so if you have a passion for Athens, email.

But really, none of this could have happened without you. The readers. The bands. The mentors. The people I live and work and party with every day. I owe you my gratitude, my loyalty, and probably some money too. Thanks for reading.

Here's to the new year,

Jordan Stepp
Editor in Chief

Flagpole Music Awards: Band/Performer of the Year

(Art/Ziona Kocher, lizzybknits.deviantart.com)

You might have noticed that the ballot for Band/Performer of the Year of the Flagpole Athens Music Awards is blank. Which means you have over 500 Athens bands to choose from to pick as the best. You've seen all the nominees for the other groups, you've got the power of the internet at your disposal, use it well. What follows is what goes through my head when picking artist of the year. The choice is yours.

1) Did the artist release an album?
If the band released an EP/LP in the past year, it seems to resonate more with me than a band that hasn't. A shiny new piece of vinyl (or plastic or electrons as the case may be) shows that effort has been made to create something in the past year. Maybe the band just got the funds to release it or they rushed and got it out before a tour but a release always make me favor a band for a year end vote.

2) Did the artist tour heavily?
Say what you want but a band that tours only around Athens and makes no effort to venture even to Atlanta does not bode well in my eyes. Yes, not everyone can afford to jet off to NYC or Seattle but if you try, I'll notice. Touring heavily often leads towards...

3) Band growth
I'm not talking member size or number of fans. I'm wondering if the band has a tangible difference between performances. If I saw you in February and then again in November and you spent all that time on the road, I'm expecting your band to be tighter, the songs a bit different. Did you grow as artists? Friends? Businessmen?

4) Band/Fan Relationships
Do I know you? Really. Do I know your name? Do you give me things like videos or special deals? Are your t-shirts cool? Do you talk to me after a show when I run up gushing like a fanboy at your awesomeness?

5) Are the shows EPIC?
Did you have a kick-ass show this year? Something that I saw and went WOAH. Did everyone sing or dance? THe lights, the sound. Was it something memorable?

So thanks for hanging out with us for 20 days straight. We'll be covering Athfest pretty heavily in June, our blog's birthday coming up, and cartoons(!?). Thanks so much to Flagpole, Athensmusic.net, Ziona Kocher, Sofia, and everyone for reading. Keep your eyes here for all things Athens music. We'll rock your Ath off.

Flagpole Music Awards: Best Album

The second hardest category to vote on for me is Best Album. What makes it the best? The best of the band's career? Better than the rest of the nominees? Just your favorite genre? Whatever your choice, any of these would be worthy of your vote. Since I haven't gotten to review all of them, I've linked to reviews for you. I HAVE heard all the albums and was so torn voting. If you want any of these great works, check out ATHENSMUSIC.NET. They've got tons of shirts and stickers and all kinds of Athens stuff too. *end commercial* Anyway, one more to go...

BLOODKIN - Baby They Told Us We'd Rise Again
Review via Flagpole.

DEAD CONFEDERATE - Wrecking Ball
Review via Flagpole.

DON CHAMBERS - Zebulon
Review via Popmatters. I'd have given it higher myself.

HARVEY MILK - Life...The Best Game in Town
Review via Pitchfork.

LAZER/WULF - The Void That Isn't
Review via Flagpole.

LIZ DURRETT - Outside Our Gates
Review via Fensepost.

MADELINE - White Flag
Review via Flagpole.

MODERN SKIRTS - All of Us in Our Night
Here are my thoughts on All of Us in Our Night.

VENICE IS SINKING - Azar
Here are my thoughts on Azar.

VIC CHESNUTT, ELF POWER, & the AMORPHOUS STRUMS - Dark Developments
Review via Flagpole.

Tomorrow...best band/artist.

Flagpole Music Awards: Live Band

I remember my first real show in Athens. Pylon. The power, the energy going back and forth from audience to band and back again in the space it took for a single bass note or drum kick. The following nominees for best Live Band have something special that sets them apart. You can't just listen to the album. You have to see them live.

THE CORDUROY ROAD
Sing loudly and carry a stomping board. Probably the most improved act on the ballot, it's always a treat to see people dancing and clapping to the great new band on the scene. If you enjoy bluegrass and folk, you're sure to love the Road. They've got a new album out and play around a lot. Catch them while you can.

DEAF JUDGES
Blistering. And amazing. I'm not a big fan of rap & hip-hop but I will drop everything to see this group. I keep running into various members around town and they never cease to amaze me with their kindness and skill. You haven't lived until you've been to a show.

THE MATT KURZ ONE
He's a one man band that will bend your mind. He plays bass with his foot. His hands play guitar, keyboards, and drums. All at the same time. And his music is phenomenal. He's best seen in the little places like Tasty World for full effect.

MUSIC TAPES
It's not so much the performance as what happens after the show that makes Music Tapes the stuff of legends. I've heard stories about parades through the streets of Athens, complete with kazoos, bonfires, and all sorts of crazy stuff. A Music Tapes show is not a show. It's an experience. Go for the show, stay for the crazy.

OF MONTREAL
Can anyone even begin to explain an of Montreal show? It's like the Elephant 6 turned up to eleven. Barnes rode a freakin white stallion across the stage for god's sake! They're funky, furry, funny, frightening, and oh so awesome. My only deal, does anyone consider them an Athens band anymore?

Check in tomorrow for the nominees for best album!

Flagpole Music Awards: Upstarts

They're the noobs, the openers, the little rookies that older bands can smash under their feet on the way to the top. Ironically, most of these bands nominated in Upstarts for the Flagpole Athens Music Awards will probably outlast their tormentors. These kids work hard for the (lack of) money and show tons of potential. Give 'em some love.

THE ARCS
Rock. Rock. Rock. Think that awesome Who stuff your older brother used to listen to before he got all indie-fied. Sometimes all you really need are three chords and a bit of attitude. The Arcs are more aboveground favorites in the social circles of Athens but here's hoping the underground catches on soon.

BAMBARA
I absolutely HAVE to play Bambara every time I get inside WUOG. The band's a favorite around many circles in Athens and I've yet to run into someone who couldn't find at least one song they loved. A mix of psych rock, punk, and a tinge of grunge. They're in Europe right now so catch 'em when they come back in July.

CHARTREUSE
A beautiful color and a very beautiful sounding band. I'm completely enamored of these soundscape bands but it takes a lot to make an impact worth listening to. Chartreuse is a bit more unassuming than your other ambient bands and experimental touches flit here and there. LOVE.

CREEPY
A very appropriate name. I don't know why I keep coming back to Bowie-esque for the vocals since there's a lot of distortion here. A combo of trance and fuzz, Creepy is something that has to be listened to on its own. Whereas some trance goes the western route or even towards metal, Creepy is in a category of its own.

GIFT HORSE
I really wouldn't be surprised to see these guys following in Dead Confederate's shoes and establishing Athens as the next rock hotbed. I've watched these guys with Sleepy Horses for a long time and every single time "Not the Only One" comes on, I get chills.Keep an eye out here on AMJ for a feature on the awesome Gift Horse.

THE INCREDIBLE SANDWICH
If you're into grooving, take a bite of this sandwich. Sorry, couldn't resist. But these guys run the spectrum from bluesy to jam to jazz all in one song. It's perfect music to drive down the highway to. Great rhythms and a really soothing vocal. They're playing the Melting Point on Wednesday so check them out if you can.

KUROMA
I seriously want to see the finally vote tallies for Kuroma. They've had a few, ahem, "PR Problems" lately but there's no denying sheer talent. My friend Justin turned me on to the band early last year. A bit more melodic than I would've thought but hey, considering the pedigree of past bands that Hank has, it makes sense.

POWERS
"Bring earplugs." - Powers Myspace. NO KIDDING. With members from at least two other "Athens' loudest bands," you just have to see them live to get it. Last time, they stood in a circle, four guitars and one drummer. And it was awesome. My ears are still ringing. Sloan's got some tracks up on southernshelter.com if you want to listen.

THE WARM FUZZIES
Pop rock that'll make you sway. They're fun, plain honest. It's catchy, slightly like Weezer but better. I hear them on several movie soundtracks to come. They play around quite a bit so check their site for the latest.

Okay, nearly done. Tomorrow is BEST LIVE BAND!!

Flagpole Music Awards: Solo Performer

ADAM KLEIN
The first time I saw Adam Klein, I was on assignment for Flagpole. It was one of my first show reviews and I was a bit nervous. I shouldn't have been. The very kind Klein charmed the socks off the entire audience with his very folky americana sound. I remember thinking I had been swept off to a cattle trail out West with my own soundtrack. He gives you doe eyes while singing songs to soothe your soul.

BROCK BUTLER
He's with P-Groove so what do you think it sounds like? Think slow jam. I wish I could tell you more about Brock but I have yet to have the pleasure of seeing him perform live.

KEN WILL MORTON
Ken lives the life of a rock songwriter. He leans towards the blues with a gruff voice and usually some lighter notes coming from a mandolin. He's hosting Songwriters' Night around Athens these days. You'd be advised to check them out. And oh look, we have video of him.

LIZ DURRETT
Just plain beautiful. I had heard once that Liz had some stage fright at one point but damn if she doesn't hold you right in the palm of her hand. I saw her open for her uncle Vic Chesnutt at the 40 Watt. Her last song was just her and a guitar. You couldn't hear another sound in the room. No glass knocking, no chatter. Just the incredible voice of one of Athens' greatest treasures.

MADELINE
Another songstress, Madeline is a bit more poppy and happy sounding than Liz. Her songwriting is just as good though. The new album is a favorite around our offices. I really remember "Jive Talking" through an old WUOG recording. It sounds a bit like a modern update of an old Irish folk ballad. A lot less keening and soaring vocals. Try to catch her in a coffeeshop type area. The connection is amazing.

TIMMY TUMBLE
When I saw this dude, he reminded me of Andy Kaufman. Tumble's so over the top when performing, you just can't look away. He was very confusing and incredibly charming. Singing and swaying over his pre-recorded songs, it was the best lounge act/pop show you could ask for. Also, he's the creator of one of the greatest local albums of all time: "20 Songs About Booty."

Tune in tomorrow for the lowdown on the Upstarts!

Flagpole Music Awards: Metal

I've been under the impression that metal is all about how loud and how fast you can play a guitar. After listening to the nominees for Metal on the Flagpole Athens Music Awards ballot, I'm a bit better informed but still a bit clueless when it comes to the land of thunder and darkness. But I'll give anything a try. So put in your earplugs kiddies, we're going to lose our minds.

THE DUMPS
A mixture of rock and metal, The Dumps actually remind me a bit of Porn Orchard soundwise. The songs on their site follow a pretty standard loud, LOUD, loud pattern but there's nothing typical about the Dumps. They're playing at Max Canada on May 27th.

HARVEY MILK
A lot more melodic and understandable (at least to me) than some other metal bands, Harvey Milk has been gathering speed. Thanks to the constant influence of Max, the guy who hosts Loud Fast Rules after Sound of the City, I have heard plenty of Harvey. And I like Harvey. Screw calcium, Harvey Milk is the only nutrition you need.

LAZER/WULF
"Jazz trio from Hell." They're instrumental, which adds a whole new challenge to all you screamo purists. If you are unaware of just how much noise one band can make, take a listen. Did I mention that they were BAND OF THE YEAR last year? Yeah, there's a reason punk.

SUBRIG DESTROYER
A two piece! Bass and drums. No overwrought, compensating for something guitar solos here. It's slow and prodding and brooding metal. Occasional vocal yells here and there but their real power lies in getting you into a groove. It'll rap around inside your head and squeeze your brains out.

Check back tomorrow for the nominees for best Solo Performer!

Flagpole Music Awards: Tribute Bands PLUS CONTEST

GUESS THESE BANDS!!

Tribute bands. Love 'em or hate 'em, they are a big part of the Athens music scene. There are times when I'm not sure what the Georgia Theatre would do without some cover band gracing the stage. Since I have never seen any of these bands live and just listening to them would kind of defeat the purpose, I'm just listing them. Vote here for your favorite before May 29.

CONTEST!!!
You've been awesome. So we decided to thank you. With a contest. Send us an email at athensmusicjunkie@gmail.com with as many actual band names from the picture on this post as you can figure out and whoever gets the most will WIN a prize pack of cds from several of this year's Flagpole Athens Music Awards nominees. And now back to the bands.

Gimme Hendrix

The Heap - P Funk Tribute

Pastor of Muppets

Pigs on the Wing

Very Disco: Daft Punk

Ziggy Stardust


Check back in for an actual big post about METAL!!

Flagpole Music Awards: Best Album Artwork

It should be noted that the following is compiled from the personal tastes of everyone at Athens Music Junkie and some of our friends. Since the section is blank on the Flagpole Athens Music Awards ballot, feel free to enter them in and post a link below to plug your favorite. You can search AthensMusic.net for more albums. This is meant to honor those who work behind the scenes, waking up early to take photos and working late into the night on graphics. For those about to design, we salute you.

A.Armada


Bambara


Vic Chesnutt, Elf Power & the Amorphous Strums


The Empties


Modern Skirts


Venice is Sinking


Chris McKay and the Critical Darlings


Ruby Isle


Tomorrow is Tribute band day! Check back at 7 p.m.

Flagpole Music Awards: Punk/Hardcore

(Art/Ziona Kocher, lizzybknits.deviantart.com)

They're loud, rude, and the perfect people to let crash on your parents' couch if you really want to annoy them. Actually, these nominees are all really nice but their music makes you want to start a revolution or something. Armed with three chords and their versions of the truth, the nominees for Flagpole's Athens Music Awards' Punk/Hardcore award will blast your face off. Voting ends May 29.

AMERICAN CHEESEBURGER
American Cheeseburger sounds more like metal than punk. There's no soloing in PUNK! That's where the hardcore kicks in. You can't understand the lyrics and good luck trying to hear much through the fuzz but you will be jumping up and down all night long. Yummy.

CHRISSAKES
Throw together rock, hard rock, hardcore, psych, and a lot of metal and you have Chrissakes. The songs I've heard range from a screamo-tribute to RAWK to a slower LOUD-soft-LOUD jam that would make 90s Seattle proud. People underestimate how hard it is to scream lyrics night after night. Major props.

THE JACK BURTON
A lot less loud than the other noms, The Jack Burton reminds me quite a bit of our buddies Five Eight. I only got to here the one song on their site unfortunately. But anyone who is awesome enough to name themselves after a Kurt Russell character has my vote.

NATIONALE
After getting redirected to TWO other bands called Nationale and R.E.M. openers The National, I finally found the site of the screaming, thrashing, yet slightly melodic Nationale (of Athens.) Again, not a punk band but a very strong emphasis on rhythm and few chords make it a pretty heavy post-punk/hardcore submission.

PEGASUSES-XL
Far more punk than any of the other nominees, Pegasuses is made up of "local smartasses." Considering fellow smartass Homedrone blogger Jeff Tobias is in this band, I'm taking them at their word. They lean towards experimental more than punk or hardcore but the songs are memorable enough you'll be singing them soon.

Tomorrow we're looking into the graphic designers who created what I consider some of the BEST ALBUM ARTWORK of Athens this year.

Flagpole Music Awards: Pop

(Art/Ziona Kocher, lizzybknits.deviantart.com)
They write the tunes they want the whole world to sing. If you haven't seen the following bands yet, make sure you do before one of them ends up on the Grey's Anatomy or House soundtrack or something. The nominees for Pop in the Flagpole Athens Music Awards aim to please. Rocky, punky, and wavey, pop is here to stay. Voting ends May 29.

ALLISON WEISS
The queen of promotion and sappy happy little ditties, Allison has been making her rounds in Athens for a while now. Her cheerful pop is polarizing to some but it's a testament to her songwriting chops that she's gaining speed in the music world. She'll be touring the Pacific Northwest during the summer, spreading her tales of feeling bad and getting better.

CASPER AND THE COOKIES
Out of all the E6 Collective, I feel that Casper and the Cookies is probably the most accessible. It's powerpop and experimental all at the same time. Like those Flintstone Pushup Pops they have in the frozen food isle. Why go with the same old fudgesicle when you can have something new and different?

MODERN SKIRTS
It's been a busy year for Athens' most visible pop band. A new album, opening for R.E.M., and tons of new content in recent shows...it's enough to make your head spin. The guys can pull in a good sized crowd at the 40 Watt and there's not a day that goes by that I don't hear someone humming "Pasadena."

QUIET HOOVES
These guys sound like they should be owning college radio right now. The disjointed and often country leaning pop they create would make any indie hipster drool. They've got all the elements of indie that Athens bands created. Plenty of horns, chants, and just plain interesting music.

SPRING TIGERS
Your electro-pop is here; it can here you breathing. They're actually playing the Vans Warped Tour! My brother would be so proud. The Tigers, not to be confused with the Twin variety mind you, are good thrash pop. Loud, messy, and very White Stripish at times.

VENICE IS SINKING
Also releasing a new album this year, Venice is Sinking has been nominated in a different category each time I pick up the Flagpole ballot. Are they rock? Pop? Americana? Who cares!?! "Ryan's Song" is catchy and there are very few records out there that are this beautiful and sad all at the same time.

Check back tomorrow for Punk/Hardcore.

Flagpole Music Awards: Rock

(Art/Ziona Kocher, lizzybknits.deviantart.com)

If you throw a blender into a tree in the woods, does it make a sound? Hell if I know. I'm probably off listening to one of these Flagpole Athens Music Awards Rock nominees. Loud and proud, these are the bands that rock your faces off each time they step onstage. And don't pretend you aren't tempted to blast their cds while riding around with the windows down. Yeah, I saw you. Make sure you vote before May 29th.


A. ARMADA
A.Armada's album isn't music for your ears, it's music for your soul. A combination of rock, shoegaze, and instrumental, Armada aims to become the soundtrack to your tortured, introspective indie life. It's hard for anyone to pull this kind of music off but A.Armada makes it seem easy.

DEAD CONFEDERATE
It's like you took Seattle in its heyday and planted the best of the scene here in Athens. The guys have been converting Dino Jr. fans into certified Fed-heads this past year. Dark and broody, Confederate heralds the next step in rock and roll. Post-rock my ass, it's just plain awesome. And oh look, a video.

MARRIAGE
It's always cool to find a Christian band that actually rocks. Probably the most straight-forwardly rock out of all the bands on the ballot. No fancy loops or busted out amps here. I don't know why they remind me of Savantage but there you go. They're playing Little Kings on the 23rd if you want to check 'em out.

PRIDE PARADE
LOUD. REALLY REALLY LOUD. WHAT? Oh. Sorry for shouting. I think Pride Parade is responsible for most of my hearing loss. I never catch the lyrics and every time I see them the sound is fuzzed out. Damn I love it. This. Is. RAWK!

TWIN TIGERS
Another radio station fave, Twin Tigers are not to be confused with the Spring variety. The rockers lean more towards the psychedelic end of the spectrum. It's not hard to imagine these guys rocking arenas, sweat pouring down and thousands of screaming fans.


Tune in tomorrow for the Pop nominees.

Flagpole Music Awards: Music Videos

With the sad news that the Sprockets Film Festival won't be held this year, the judges for Flagpole's Athens Music Awards decided to recognize those individuals who help bring the visual elements to the songs and bands we love. True, that individual seems to be Jason Miller but there's other people too! Voting ends on May 29th. And if you play all these videos at the same time, you can hear Peter Buck singing "Midnight Train to Georgia." No lie.

Allison Weiss: “Let Me Go”
Dir: Jason Miller and Ethan Payne



The Buddy System: “Outta Sight”
Dir: Lauren Gregg and Craig Sheldon



Dead Confederate: “The Rat”
Dir: Pamela Liltky



Dead Confederate: “Start Me Laughing”
Dir: Jason Miller and Ethan Payne



Hope For Agoldensummer: “4th Night”
Dir: Jason Miller and James Ponsoldt



Ken Will Morton: “Muscadine Wine”
Dir: Benson Greene



Lullwater: “Whatever Happened”
Dir: Jason Miller



Ruby Isle: “How It Hurts”
Dir: Taylor Coggin



Venice Is Sinking: “Ryan’s Song”
Dir: Jason Miller and Ethan Payne


But what if none of those satisfy you? Remember, we have write in slots under each category. Personally, I'm leaning towards this fanvid for R.E.M.'s "Supernatural Superserious." Tune in tomorrow for the ROCK nominees.

Flagpole Music Awards: Country

(Art/Ziona Kocher, lizzybknits.deviantart.com)

Country is really not something I have much of a stomach for. Maybe it's all the pseudo-country crap coming out of Nashville these days. Regardless, I was pleased with the music I found on the Country ballot of the Flagpole Music Awards. These artists swing from a southern belle with a heart of gold to some down and dirty redneck boys (And DAMN PROUD!) Vote while you can. The chance disappears May 29th.


BRANTLEY GILBERT
The man with a sense of humor, this is that country/rock hybrid that is most recognizable to all us non-country fiends. I'll admit that "GRITS" made me smirk a bit. Brantley is technically from Jefferson but I'm letting it slide. Mostly because of the haunting "A Modern Day Prodigal Son." Who hasn't thought about running off from school/work/life? It's a cry in your beer song. Lighters up, y'all.

COLT FORD
He'd just been dropped off in Athens on April 26, when his bus crashed near Atlanta. Nobody was hurt (except the bus) and Colt continued on as usual. I guess that describes Ford's music. His characters go through a lot but they always maintain a sense of humor. "No Trash in my Trailer" has one of the best choruses I've ever heard in a country song. But his music is more a mix of country and electronic drums than straight up whiskey soaked twang.

COREY SMITH
What can I say about Corey Smith that hasn't already been said? His music has drifted a bit away from the fan favorite "21" in favor of more mature sounding songwriting style. He leans more towards a country/soft indie kind of vibe, often reminding me of Jack Johnson. Smith's constantly touring but won't be back in these parts til about July.

DANIEL MACK AND THE PICK'N COUP
Out of all the singers, Daniel Mack has the most Nashville twang. He harkens back to the days when Billy Ray Cyrus was known for more than just his daughter. He's all about the blue collar workers and their trials.

HOLMAN AUTRY BAND
I just had this in the background, mindlessly listening, while doing some other work. When I remembered what I was listening to, I was very surprised to find my foot keeping time. It's very solid country lite-rock in the vein of CMT. They say Southern Rock, I say more like Country Hard-Pop. Like Sprite, with AN EDGE!

KAITLIN JONES AND THE COUNTY FAIR
The lone female on this part of the ballot, Jones is a Southern songbird. She sounds a bit like a young and troubled Reba. At times, the band leans toward jazzy or slight swing. This is the most traditional country music you'll hear in this category.


Check back tomorrow for the visual feast that is the Music Video Ballot!

Flagpole Music Awards: Roots/Americana

(Art/Ziona Kocher, lizzybknits.deviantart.com)

Oh my dear, sweet Americana. I admit, I knew nothing about anything even vaguely country sounding before arriving in Athens. But one night, I met the Sleepy Horses and soon afterwards saw Adam Klein. Athens has had an influx of bands like these nominated in the Roots/Americana category of the Flagpole Athens Music Awards. I, for one, can't get enough. They push us into the future of Appalachia while reminding us of the past. Anyway, voting. It ends May 29th.

THE CORDUROY ROAD
It seems like the Road has been everywhere lately. I first saw them about a year back and their act has improved by leaps and bounds since. It's foot stomping Americana. Literally. They have been known to carry around a board to place under Drew's foot. The new record has been well received around ol 'UOG so let's see what happens vote wise.

CURLEY MAPLE
Employing David Blackmon, part-time Normaltown Flyer, Maple leans toward the traditional ballads and weeping violins of roots. You can find a few upbeat tunes to balance out that old Appalachian sorrow and enough glorious instrumentals to keep you satisfied for days. Grab your fiddle boys, we're gonna chase that devil back outta Georgia. (Sorry, couldn't help myself.)

DON CHAMBERS
He sounds like Tom Waits and his site claims he sounds like a "jar full of bees." Angry, dirty, and ready to spit in your eye Americana, here's your posterboy. Yes, I am so in love with Don Chambers + GOAT. He's badass, I can't help myself. Not to mention his amazing new album "Zebulon" and the most amazing version of "9-9" ever heard anywhere.

PACKWAY HANDLE BAND
Since I saw them rock Athfest last year, I've been obsessed with Packway Handle. In between worrying when that bow will poke an eye out, I can't help but laugh at these songs. Everything from a gender confused duck to Satan in space (told ya we'd run him out). It's bluegrassy with a sense of humor. Keep an eye on these guys.

SLEEPY HORSES
I've known the Horses a loooooong time. Well, in blog years at least. They've had a few lineup changes since then but Nic has kept motoring on, releasing "Golden Light" as a free download. It's like U2 minus Bono and raised in Texas. If you ever wanted a soundtrack to ride across the west to, this is it.

SOLSTICE SISTERS
This is absolutely cute. The Sisters are more traditional country singers with great harmonies. I can't find a song that's not catchy. These are the songs I would envision grandmothers across the Trail teaching their younggins. There's a story to every song and a bit of morals thrown in for good measure. Just plain awesome.


Check back tomorrow for the Country nominees!

Flagpole Music Awards: Hip-Hop/Rap

(Art/Ziona Kocher, lizzybknits.deviantart.com)
It's a world that is not completely foreign but strange enough that I'm going to consult some friends before I vote. Hip-Hop/Rap in Athens varies from the extremely commercial to the hilariously unique. We've got gangsta, experimental, spoken word, and everything in between. So when you vote on the ballot for Flagpole's Athens Music Awards best Hip-Hop/Rap act, be warned that you're comparing apples to hot dogs. Voting ends May 29th.

ATHENS BOYS CHOIR
The current record holder for most obscenity forms needed at WUOG, ABC is a one person powerhouse of poetry and beats. You have GOT to check out these videos! My personal vote for both video and album cover of the year, ABC is consistently pushing the envelope on ideas of sexuality and equal treatment. It's like a guide to your awkward teenage years in the 80s. Only awesomer.

DEAF JUDGES
The Judges are probably the most well known hip-hop act around Athens. You can't go two weeks without hearing about a new show. They lean more towards mainstream topics but with that underground battle sound that is completely lacking from popular radio. Fear, Fire, Mortis, and Death will smash your face against a mirror and make you look at the ugly truth.

ELITE THA SHOWSTOPPA
Probably the most commercial sounding of the nominees, these are the songs you'll hear in the ATL clubs very soon. He talks about his hood, his influences, and his life. You'll be hard pressed not to make "Elementary" your windows down, stereo up jam. Elite'll be rocking the mic with our buddy Tommy Valentine at Cine on Saturday.

FUTURE APE TAPES
Slightly more experimental than the other noms, Tapes focuses more on the words than the beats. But Tapes will rap over any beat imaginable. You'll find a lot of tape loops and samples on the site and quite a bit of mind-blowing random thoughts. Well worth a listen at 1 in the morning.

THE SWANK
Formerly known as Son 1 and the Insurgents, the Swank drop the beats that you can dance to. A lot of non-radio friendly verbage but hey, each to his own. The tracks have a pretty good balance between backing guitar and rhyming from Son 1. I'm really digging "Cool." Take a listen and judge for yourselves.

Check back tomorrow for a look at the nominees for Roots/Americana. Fair warning, this is one of my areas of emphasis. Beware fawning over each entry...

Flagpole Music Awards: Experimental

(Art/Ziona Kocher, lizzybknits.deviantart.com)

It's the strange, the weird, the "I just can't turn away" redheaded cousin of Electronic music. Experimental music pushes the boundaries of your mind and eardrums in hopes of finding something exciting, shiny, and new. The nominees on the Experimental section of the Flagpole Athens Music Awards ballot do all of that. With microwaves. And balloons. Voting ends on May 29th but hold onto your socks, folks. Things are about to get weird...

DIET ROCK STAR
Athens is all about experimentation. Take a killer name like Diet Rock Star, add a few keyboards that sound like miniature helicopters taking off and you have yourself Experimental music. While I'm not quite sure why the Drive-By Truckers are on their top friends list, it would be well deserved. Take a listen if you dare.

DIVIDED LIKE A SAINTS
Don't ask me where the name came from 'cause I don't have a clue.Probably one of the more traditional acts on this ballot, DLAS features a pretty recognizable song structure in their work. It almost sounds like The Killers in places. They're playing Monday at GO Bar if you want to take a gander.

K!LL!CK
Following in the great Athenian tradition of bands with punctuation, K!LL!CK will do much to confuse you. Songs that start and stop and start in various volumes and tempos play on the tattooed man's site. His experimental work leans more towards high pitched beeps and lots of empty space for maximum impact. Also playing Monday at GO Bar

MEMORY GOSPEL DANCERS
Jeff Tobias has come through yet again with the save! Memory Gospel Dancers is "the improv version of We Versus the Shark." Featuring Al Daglis and Kris Deason from Dark Meat, it makes sense that this glorious mess is actually quite melodic. And loud. It's more listenable than most experimental but that doesn't mean the MGD don't go boldly where few have gone before.

SWEET TEETH
A lot of drone, a few random horns thrown in, and a label called Thor's Rubber Hammer (yay Lars!)This sounds like a lot of the stuff we end up playing on WUOG. Sonic experiments that make you wonder how it all relates, if it even relates at all. I give them props for the really cool posters they always seem to have.


Make sure to come back tomorrow when we look at the nominees for the Hip-Hop/Rap category.

Flagpole Music Awards: Jam/Funk

While researching the music of the amazing nominees in this category, I found myself in such a great mood. Jam and Funk always manage to amaze me with the sheer background required to do it right. Take some jazz, some rock, soul and blues, toss in a Southern Athens twang and it's pure vamp heaven. Several big names going up in this specific category this year and a lot of friends of the blog/station. It's going to be hard to vote for the Best Jam/Funk band on the Flagpole Athens Music Awards ballot, but it must be done. Voting ends May 29!

THE HEAP
They call themselves alternative on the site but this is just pure music groove. With two (!) bass players, the "indie soul" music of the HEAP will make you wonder why in the world these guys aren't world famous yet. Dare you to not move an inch during the songs. It's impossible.

JAZZCHRONIC
Wait. They're called JAZZchronic? Well, yeah Mr. Judge a Book by its Cover. You can definitely hear some jazz leanings in the band's recordings, tons of great horn work in there. If you want great listening, here's your band. They play Nowhere Bar on May 14th if you want to see them yourself.

NAUTILUS
These guys rely a bit more on keyboards and synths than the rest of the nominees in this category but that's fine by me. It actually sounds more towards the experimental or electronic to me. But there's definitely a groove here that you can't help but feel. It's an interesting combination of old and new.

RANDALL BRAMBLETT
Hey, it's our good buddy Randall! He's been mentioned here on the ol' blog a few times... When he's not out kicking tail as a solo acoustic performer, Randall and his bandmates can be found out jamming the competition. This man bleeds soul and handles a sax solo like a dream. Favorite track: "Used to Rule the World."


WIDESPREAD PANIC
Oh come on. I mean, it's WidespreadFREAKINGPanic, heirs to the Grateful Dead throne! But I'll leave a blurb anyway. Widespread has more slow jams then a lot of these other guys. They lean towards straight out Southern rock at some points but these guys are pure jam up and down. Seriously though, if "Light Fuse, Get Away" is not in your collection, that is very sad and I weep for you.


Make sure to come back tomorrow when we look at the nominees for the Experimental category.

Flagpole Music Awards: World

To say that the World category is broad would be an understatement. It's always a hard category for me to pick from because there's not a great way to judge the value of a good reggae record versus a collection of folk songs from just across the Atlantic. But I'll listen to anything once! So get on with your bad multicultural music selves and check out the nominees in the WORLD category of the Flagpole Athens Music Awards. Voting ends May 29!

BOB HAY AND THE JOLLY BEGGARS
I've had the pleasure of spinning the Beggars newest album Bawdy Noise at WUOG since February. It's a collection of songs by Scottish poet Robert Burns played on traditionally folk instruments. Even if you're not a fan of Burns' poetry, the Beggars put on a good show and keep you a wand'rin back for more.

DUBCONSCIOUS
Ah,Dubconscious. These guys own a permanent spot in this category. They lost out to Grogus last year, but these are not the type to hold grudges. Socially responsible, uplifting and just plain good dub reggae. My loved track right now is "Nonviolent."

INCATEPEC
Latin makes a comeback! Yes, I am a complete fool over latin music. Couldn't tell you the first thing about it, I just like it. Some of their stuff has an oh so subtle jazz twinge but the myspace song is just pure bliss. You can usually find these guys playing special events around the UGA campus.

ONE L
I tried to salsa once. It ended horribly for all parties involved. All I can say is that maybe if One L was playing, it would've been alright. One L was also up against Grogus last year in this category so if you love salsa music, this should be your choice. One L is playing May 16th at Farm 255 if you want to catch them live.

RECTANGLERS
What can I say about the Rectanglers? It's music like I really haven't heard before. The songs on their site are heavily rhythm oriented with tons of percussion but little trills and flecks of horns. It shouldn't work. It does work. You go from a deep head bobbing grove into a sudden onslaught of sound. "Other/Afro Beat." I think just "other" would suffice. Wow.

Make sure to come back tomorrow when we look at the nominees for the Jam/Funk category.

Flagpole Music Awards: Jazz

Now, I'm not a jazz expert by any stretch of the imagination. The blurbs below are short because, again, I don't know enough about jazz to elaborate. I can listen to and appreciate it but the nominees in Jazz on the 2009 Flagpole Athens Music Awards ballot live and breathe jazz. Voting ends on May 29, 2009. And here's those Bunker Boys with the smooth and sultry nominees.

BABY's BLUE SWINGSET
Mary Sigalas is a hairdresser by day, jazz singer by night. And last year, my boss at Athfest! I'm in love with "Angel Eyes," a sad and slow ballad that makes you ache.

CARL LINDBURG
Well, as hard as I tried, I couldn't find a site dedicated to just Carl so the link above is to Squat. Carl's been a bit of a staple in the Athens jazz scene and I really can't think of anyone who's been more visible than him in the past few years.

HALF DOZEN BRASS BAND
Last time I saw these guys, I was blown away. This is New Orleans jazz at its finest. I'm currently blasting "Bourbon Bailey" from their site and can practically see the streets of Orleans at night right before my eyes.

KENOSHA KID
If it fails to win any awards this year, Kenosha Kid at least deserves props for a wonderful website. Probably my favorite project of theirs is the new soundtrack to "Steamboat Bill." A lot more towards the rock spectrum of jazz, you'll be hard pressed to find a better combo of DIY college spirit and old school soul.

RAND LINES TRIO
This is probably the most traditional leaning group in the Jazz category from what I've heard. It's straight ahead piano-based jazz like you're used to. I call it rainy day jazz but it's really calming any time. FYI, they're playing the Melting Point this Sunday.

Make sure to come back tomorrow when we look at the nominees for the World category.

Flagpole Music Awards: Electronic/DJ

I'll go ahead and admit that I have no clue about anyone other than Ruby Isle in this category. The only band I dance to is Pylon. But I'm not everyone, thank god, so I dug up what I could find about each Electronic/DJ nominee on the 2009 Flagpole Athens Music Awards ballot. Voting ends on May 29,2009. And here are the nominees, presented by Mr. Electron Blue himself.

IMMUZIKATION
The first song up on the page is "One More Time To Pretend," aka, the sickest mashup I've heard in a while. Just FYI, IMMUZIKATION is playing the 40 Watt this Friday with the Walkmen and the PR darlings Kuroma. My fave by far is L.E.S.D.A.N.C.E., probably because a certain someone got me hooked on the original song last year.

RUBY ISLE
In addition to being the only band here I'm familiar with, the absolutely insane Ruby Isle is in contention for my write-in vote for best album artwork. Seriously. Take 80s retro and throw a giant freakin cherry on the front. Priceless. The album features Tay "Chocolate Rain" Zonday, beats you can't help but move to, and unbelievably catchy hooks. You'll be singing "So Damn High" in your sleep.

SEADUB
It's a bit odd to see Seadub up against the others here since the music is quite a bit different sounding. As the name suggests, there's a lot more emphasis on dub than straight mixing/matching and electronic trickery. I'm really digging "Layin In Bed" right now. Not bad for a business major.

T8R(TOT)
The music is heavy on the instrumental side and way more trip-hop than I'm used to. That said, words are easy to mix and repeat. It's really all about the beat and T8R(Tot)has you covered.You can download his album for free straight from the myspace if you really like what you hear.

DJ Triz
Taking samples from different movies, tv shows, and songs, Triz has the most magpie-like style of the nominees. Don't be surprised if you suddenly hear George Cloony talking to Terminator during a song. It's all in great fun. FYI, Triz is playing the Georgia Theatre tomorrow night

Check in tomorrow when we'll look at the smooth sounds of the Jazz nominees.

VOTE OR DIE! Flagpole Music Awards!

(I know you're jealous of my awesome MSPaint skills.)

I seriously cannot believe it's that time of year again. The Flagpole Athens Music Award ballots are out on the street and taking over ur interwebz right now! Since it is almost impossible for everyone to know each band nominated, I'm going in depth with each category every day for the next twenty days. Each day will be presented with a picture of last year's Album of the Year winners R.E.M. Hopefully, it'll help all of us get a better grip on the scope of this thing. So if you want to see your favorite act walk across the stage to grab the phallic-shaped FLAGPOLE AWARD on June 25th, then pay attention to the King of Athens holding the sign and vote! The deadline is Friday, May 29.

Athfest Lineup: Version 1.5 (Late Update!)

Athfest posted what I'm calling Version 1.5 of the Athfest lineup on the official site today. Follow the link for any info you want but for time's sake, I'll just write here what they've updated. Right now, it looks like I'll be at the Melting Point on Saturday. RETRO ATHENS FOR THE WIN!

Ciné - 234 W. Hancock Avenue
All Ages
Friday
Happy Happy Birthday to Me Records showcase with Casper & the Cookies / Cars Can Be Blue / Forever / Tunabunny
Saturday
Kindercore Records showcase with The Buddy System / Ruby Isle / Grape Soda / The Young Sinclairs


Georgia Theatre - 215 N. Lumpkin Street
Ages 18 & older
Friday
We Versus the Shark / Deaf Judges / Hot New Mexicans / The Valley Arena / Marriage / Geoff Reacher
Saturday
Puddin Tang / Gift Horse / Velveteen Pink / Kuroma / Immuzikation

The Globe - 199 North Lumpkin Street
Ages 21 & older
Friday
Cachaça (10 p.m.) / One L (11 p.m.) / The Donner Party [Pogues Tribute] (Midnight)
Saturday
Sailor Dawn (10 p.m.) / The Premonitions (11 p.m.) / Rand Lines Trio (Midnight)


Melting Point - 295 E. Dougherty St.
Ages 18 & older
Friday
Americana Night with: Curley Maple / Little Country Giants / William Tonks
Saturday
Flash to Bangtime (9 p.m.) / Love Tractor (10 p.m.) / Time Toy (11 p.m.) / Five Eight (Midnight)


Rye Bar - 140 E. Clayton Street
Ages 21 & older
Friday
Grant Mitchell / 3 Foot Swagger
Saturday
Savannah, GA Music Night with: Wormsloew (10 p.m.) / Junkyard Angel (11 p.m.) / Turtle Folk (Midnight) / Brock Butler (1 a.m.)

Tasty World - 312 E. Broad Street
Ages 18 & older
Friday
Up to Here / Bearfoot Hookers / Ibilisi Takedown
Saturday
Futurebirds / The Interns / Part Bear

Random Video Sunday: Kite to the Moon

"I'd love to make some pancakes for my bay-bay, bay-bay"