Tuesday, July 28, 2009

DDOSBS#100 - Movits!

We're sending you off with a banger! It's called Swinghop and it's from Sweden.

Its been a pleasure,

Bye bye.

Movits! - Fel Del Av Garden

Monday, July 27, 2009

DDOSBS#99 - Bon Iver















Just imagine:
The year is 2006. In a stroke of misfortune, your band splits, your girlfriend calls it quits and you catch a bad case of mononucleosis. In a search for catharsis you retreat into the woods of Wisconsin, writing music in your father's remote hunting cabin.

That's the story of Justin Vernon and his pseudonym/band Bon Iver (a play on the French expression for 'Good Winter').

For Emma, Forever Ago, the indie debut album that came out of this period of soul-searching, sounds precisely like you'd expect it to. Mournful, heart-wrenching, but oh-so beautiful.

Bon Iver - Skinny Love



His more recent EP Blood Bank is just as riveting.

Saturday, July 25, 2009

DDOSBS#97 - Sublime

A sad fact about Sublime: they never got to enjoy their mainstream success.

Lead singer and guitarist Bradley Nowell died of a heroin overdose shortly before the release of their breakthrough album. The self-titled record is considered an absolute ska classic ("I don't practice Santeria!"), and even today their music continues to be loved by radio dj's, college kids, nostalgic twenty-somethings and the stereotypical stoner crowds.

5446 is from their debut record (a favorite among the die hard fans). Also be sure to check out Bad Fish, and the respectable cover by Jack Johnson.

Sublime - 54-46 (That's My Number)/Ball and Chain


Friday, July 24, 2009

DDOSBS#96 - White Rabbits

Those snare drums are getting a real beating.

White Rabbits - Percussion Gun

Thursday, July 23, 2009

DDOSBS#95 - Andrew Bird






















While recording his latest album in the summer of last year, Andrew Bird contributed to an NY Times blog where he documents the development of "Oh No".

Andrew plays the violin, guitar, mandolin, and glockenspiel. Oh, and he also whistles like nobody's business!

Andrew Bird - Oh No


Wednesday, July 22, 2009

DDOSBS#94 - Lazee featuring Neverstore (Stonebridge remix)

Just some summer tunes for you to chill to.

For the regular Hed Kandi listener the artist name Stonebridge will ring a bell. Especially the song Put 'Em High by this Swedish DJ and record producer received a great amount of airplay.

Remixing is something he does quite a bit and on this ocassion he took on the track Hold On by Lazee feat. Neverstore transforming the original into a dance track.

Lazee featuring Neverstore (Stonebridge remix) - Hold on

Tuesday, July 21, 2009

DDOSBS#93 - Eagles of Death Metal

Do not be taken aback by their name, Eagles of Death Metal play music your parents may actually approve of.

Queens of the Stone Age's Josh Homme wanted to write songs that would combine the eagles with death metal. He got together with a group of mustachioed gentleman to create no-nonsense rock 'n roll. EODM record in the Californian desert, and have been joined there by the likes of David Grohl and Jack Black, among many others.

Eagles of Death Metal - Wanna Be in LA


Monday, July 20, 2009

DDOSBS#92 - Dave Matthews Band

The Dave Matthews Band is one of the most popular North American bands in the past two decades.

The Virginia-based band (including a saxophonist and a fiddle player) has struck multiple good chords with the American public, they are well known for playing legendary arena shows featuring lengthy improvs of their songs.

For unknown reasons the Dave Matthews Band fail to reach similar levels of success in Europe. It's a pity, Europeans are missing out.

Dave Matthews Band - American Baby



For older DMB classics click here, here, here and here.

Sunday, July 19, 2009

DDOSBS#91 - Oh Snap! & Ed Orable

So true.

Oh Snap! & Ed Orable - Everyone's a DJ


Everyones A DJ - Oh Snap!

Saturday, July 18, 2009

DDOSBS#90 - Sabrina Starke

Surinam-born Sabrina Starke sang reggae, turned to soul, won talent shows, created a you-tube buzz, brought out a solo album, and signed with legendary Blue Note records in New York (Herbie Hancock, Miles Davis, etc.).

Sabrina Starke - Foolish


Friday, July 17, 2009

DDOSBS#89 - La Roux

La Roux, sounds pretty French for a United Kingdom act.

The electropop synth duo band consists of Elly Jackson and Ben Langmaid. Because Langmaid likes to stay in the background and has a history in music mainly as a producer it sometimes seems like Jackson is a solo artist. They claim, however, that they have a 50-50 influence/part in the act.

Jackson came across the name La Roux while flipping through a book with baby names. In French La Roux loosely translates to 'the red' and she decided it would be a good name since she has red hair herself.

Their hot track right now:

La Roux - Bulletproof



Some other gems on the album are I'm Not Your Toy, Quicksand and Colourless Colour.

Thursday, July 16, 2009

DDOSBS#88 - Indische Waterlelies

It's themepark season. We all dread the long lines, crappy food and crying babies, yet somehow many of us find ourselves paying the overpriced ticket to spend a day of good old quality time.

The Netherlands has a Disney World of its own called the Efteling, a cornerstone of Dutch culture (3 million visitors a year! on a population of 17 million). It has a slightly outdated fairy tale ride called Indische Waterlelies (a witch turns fairies into flowers because she is jealous of their beauty).

Hearing the song that goes with this particular ride will make the average dutchie wither away in nostalgia. Music lovers from anywhere in the world cannot deny that it has a pretty nice ring to it.

Efteling - Indische Waterlelies



Wednesday, July 15, 2009

DDOSBS#87 - Matt and Kim

At DDOS we love music videos with naked people. Which song then to choose by Brooklyn-based duo Matt and Kim to feature here, was a no-brainer.

Matt & Kim - Lessons Learned



For those preferring it a bit more PG-rated:

Matt & Kim - Daylight



Is it me or does this give off a sudden Bacardi craving?

Tuesday, July 14, 2009

DDOSBS#86 - Vaya Con Dios

Contrary to what their name and musical style may suggest, Vaya Con Dios is from Belgium.

The band's refreshing mix of jazz, latin and gypsy music has brought them much success around the world.

Vaya Con Dios - Nah Neh Nah



Monday, July 13, 2009

DDOSBS#85 - Novalima

The style of this music is World Fusion. Said to be anyway, since the musical collective won an Independent Music Award for Best album in the World Fusion category in 2006.

The collective was formed in 2001 by 4 Peruvians. They are based in different cities around the world though, Lima, Barcelona, London and Hong Kong. Still, they produce a very coherent sound, working with many guest musicians in their tracks.

Enjoy this latin sound.

Nice video as well.

Novalima - Coba Guarango



Check out more music at their MySpace.

Sunday, July 12, 2009

DDOSBS#84 - Magnet

For his second album On Your Side, Norwegian singer/songwriter Magnet collaborates with Irish singer Gemma Hayes to take on the challenge of covering Bob Dylan's classic 'Lay Lady Lay'.

Good job.

Magnet - Lay Lady Lay (Feat. Gemma Hayes) [Bob Dylan Cover]

Saturday, July 11, 2009

DDOSBS#83 - PNAU

Somehow, many good electropop bands originate in Australia. As featured earlier, both Van She and Empire of the Sun are from the continent down-under as well. You can ad PNAU to this list of golden electropop tunes creators.

PNAU - Embrace

Friday, July 10, 2009

DDOSBS#82 - Air France

Electropop group Air France is from Gothenburg Sweden. Somewhat hard to imagine with the sultry rhythms and tropical-sunset feel of their music.

A bit of an awkward name as well, (not considering recent happenings) but then again, one press of the play button feels like a direct flight to Bounty Island.

Air France - No Excuses

Thursday, July 9, 2009

DDOSBS#81 - Feeder

In their '05 semi-hit 'Feeling A Moment' Welsh rockers Feeder show the diversity of their sound by wigwagging between sentimental pop-melancholia and headbanging rock-clamor.

Feeder - Feeding A Moment

Wednesday, July 8, 2009

DDOSBS#80 - Santigold (Terry Urban Mash-Up)

Some of us are still trembling from the aftershock of Santigold/Santogold's 2008 self-titled debut album.

After a quick listen, Terry Urban, a mash-up guru who has remastered the works of Kanye/Jay-Z/Coldplay and more, jumped in the studio and has been slaving away to put out his Southerngold mixtape, which takes the Santogold original and throws a whole lot of Southern rap in the mix.
But just before his summer release, Terry was stopped in his track by Santi's label, showing copyright decrees across the table.

In contrast to the corporate view, however, Santigold herself has advocated the Mixtape's release.
Santi, baby, your wish is our command.

Santigold - Hustlin' With The Lights Out (Feat. Rick Ross)

Tuesday, July 7, 2009

DDOSBS#79 - Identity

As mentioned before, the summer season always brings great beach music. With the release of some more albums, here's another sand covered gem.

Tastes just like the drink.

Identity - Cuba Libre

Monday, July 6, 2009

DDOSBS#78 - Télépopmusik

This is chill. Indeed.

Télépopmusik - Breathe

Sunday, July 5, 2009

DDOSBS#77 - Mando Diao

The name Mando Diao came to one of the two founding members, Björn Dixgård, of the band in a dream. Interesting dream that must have been.

This was back in 1999 and in the past decade they have been fine-tuning their style. Below is the latest release. It has a definite power to it.

Mando Diao - Dance With Somebody

Saturday, July 4, 2009

DDOSBS#76 - Turkey in the Straw

Happy 4th of July y'all!

Turkey in the Straw


Turkey In The Straw - Banjo Music

Old version:

Friday, July 3, 2009

DDOSBS#75 - Death Cab For Cutie

Some of you might know Death Cab For Cutie, the timid Grammy-nominated indie rock band from Washington State. You might also be familiar with the fact that the lead singer, Ben Gibbard, is one of the two minds behind the wonderfully bleep-blooped electro-indie tune 'Such Great Hights' and full-time member of the Postal Service duo for that matter.
Well what might be new to you in that case, is their latest video for 'Little Bribes', which is part of their recent Open Door EP and just hot out of the oven!

With this creative lyric visualization, this new vid is especially suitable for those incredibly fast karaokists out there...

Death Cab For Cutie - Little Bribes

Thursday, July 2, 2009

DDOSBS#74 - Kanye West (LMFAO Remix)


















Remember that dynamic "electro-hop" duo LMFOA that was posted around January ? Well, the two fro-rocking, neon-blazing Hollywood rappers are ready to smack the world in the face with a full-length studio album 'Party Rock', which is set to drop July 7th.
But before next week rolls around, LMFAO decided to put out another one of those Kanye West remixes to remind the world of their spectacular new-rave sound.

This time they tackle Kanye's 'Paranoid'.

Kanye West - Paranoid (LMFAO Remix)

Wednesday, July 1, 2009

DDOSBS#73 - Joey Negro (Diana Ross Remix)

Here's a classic that has been given the Ibiza beach house makeover by Joey Negro.

The guitar line is chilled-out perfectly.

Joey Negro - Love Hangover (Diana Ross Remix)

Tuesday, June 30, 2009

DDOSBS#72 - Wilco






















Happy new music Tuesday to you all.

Wilco is a Chicago-based band that mixes a quasi-experimental style with an accessible Americana sound. With 15 years, and their share of musician shuffling, behind them, the band has had quite some time to venture around the music industry, trying any genre between neo-folk and country rock. Their new album, which counts as their 8th, was simply named 'Wilco', it representing the true style and nature of the band.

Some of its better tunes are 'You Never Know' and the duet 'You And I' with the lovely Feist.

But I still find myself leaning towards their older works:

Wilco - Jesus, Etc

Monday, June 29, 2009

DDOSBS#71 - The Shins

Its hard to find an account of indie rockband The Shins, without a reference to Natalie Portman's 2004 Garden State quote The Shins "will change your life".

Well, this seems to be true in any case for Jesse Sandovol, who, last month, made the awkward transition from being the band's drummer to being the proud owner of a taco stand. The seemingly powerful and dominant frontman James Mercel replaced him with a rocker from Modest Mouse, also kicking out the keyboardist in exchange for a former Grand Archives member. You should be able to hear their 'new sound' sometime next year.

But for now, the Shins as they used to be:
Start slow. End rowdy.

The Shins
- Sleeping Lessons

Sunday, June 28, 2009

DDOSBS#70 - Nat King Cole

Nice try at the French. For an American... But I must admit, it makes it sound kinda cool.

Nat King Cole - L-O-V-E
(expanding his fan-base internationally by bluntly translating his song lyrics)



He also did it in Japanese.

Saturday, June 27, 2009

DDOSBS#69 - Mark Ronson (Kissy Sell Out remix)















In 2007, Mark Ronson re-composed the 1987 ditzy-yet-dingy 'Stop Me If You Think You've Heard Enough' from early alt rockers The Smiths, adding some grand orchestration and vocals from the up-and-coming Daniel Merriweather.

A while later, British DJ 'Kissy Sell Out' turned the song up another notch.
The first minute and a half set out the solid foundation, after which Kissy goes outright bananas at the mixing controls.

Mark Ronson (Feat. Daniel Merriweather) - Stop Me (Kissy Sell Out remix)

Friday, June 26, 2009

DDOSBS#68 - RIP Michael Jackson



























RIP Michael Jackson

Jackson 5 - Forever Came Today

Thursday, June 25, 2009

DDOSBS#67 - The Very Best















The e-music scene and all language borders were struck with a bolt from the blue when, some time last year, they were introduced to a fresh and interesting collaboration that went by the stately name of 'The Very Best'. This project, which consists of, on the one hand, Malawian singer Esau Mwamwaya and, on the other, electro-producers Radioclit, started when the three musicians met on a fortunate stroke of serendipity during a furniture shopping session in 2007.

The unlikely trio put out a mixtape called 'Esau Mwamwaya and Radioclit Are the Very Best' in '08. On the record, with the use of four different languages, Esau gives his authentic African interpretation of anything from M.I.A. and Michael Jackson hits to Hans Zimmer scores and the Beatles' oldies (basically anything that could be remotely associated with the continent of Africa). They also let us hear some original material, as well as guest vocals by such stars as Santigold, Akon and Vampire Weekend. Below you can hear one of the tracks, 'Kamphopo', adding some serious steel drums to an original by the Aussie band Architecture in Helsinki. If you're convinced you can even download the entire mixtape HERE (for free!).

Recently, the Very Best have confirmed that they are not here for a one-day experiment though, having released two new singles on Tue & Thu of last week for their upcoming original album this fall. These are the summery title-track 'Warm Heart of Africa', featuring Vampire Weekend's Ezra Koenig and the infectious 'Ntende Uli'.

The Very Best - Kamphopo

Wednesday, June 24, 2009

DDOSBS#66 - Laura Izibor

Here is some sassy R&B, straight off the streets of Dublin, Ireland.

No kidding.

Laura Izibor - From My Heart To Yours

If you're up for more.

Tuesday, June 23, 2009

DDOSBS#65 - Donavon Frankenreiter

Jack Johnson is not the only one who can produce some laid back surf tunes.

They're good friends actually, Jack and Donavon. The two have quite a bit in common as well. Both have been pro surfers (or are in Donavon's case), like their songs simple & mellow and ever since Donavon rented a room in Hawaii from Jack's parents their paths cross often. Donavon Frankenreiter's first record, self-titled, was also released under Jack Johnson's label, Brushfire Records.

Enjoy this mellow vibe, that's what summer is all about.

Donavon Frankenreiter - Lovely Day

Monday, June 22, 2009

DDOSBS#64 - David Guetta

In this month's new Black Eyed Peas album "The E.N.D. (The Energy Never Dies)", producer Will.I.Am tries to venture into the realm of electro, switching his crew's hiphop-oriented style to, as he likes to call it, "electric static funk".

French House DJ David Guetta, who also lent a hand on the album's works and has been increasingly interested in other venturing R&B-artists, shows him how its really done.

David Guetta - Boom Boom Guetta



There's more where that came from!

Sunday, June 21, 2009

DDOSBS#63 - KT Tunstall

Here's a way to survive the credit crunch:

Pass the rest of your band members the pink slip and rock the pedal looper instead.

KT Tunstall - Black Horse and the Cherry Tree

Saturday, June 20, 2009

DDOSBS#62 - Noah and the Whale

These London 'blokes' have enjoyed considerable air-play in the UK, but their happy-go-lucky tunes deserve a much greater audience.

According to sources, the boys are slaving away in the studio to finish up their follow-up album for the end of the summer.

Noah and the Whale - 5 Years Time

Friday, June 19, 2009

DDOSBS#61 - Grover Washington Jr

This grooving saxophone remake of Dave Brubeck's legendary 'Take Five' shows why Grover Washington Jr is considered to be one of the fathers of Smooth Jazz.

Grover Washington Jr - Take Five [Dave Brubeck Cover]

Thursday, June 18, 2009

DDOSBS#60 - Make The Girl Dance

And so the hunt started for the uncensored video.

Make The Girl Dance - Baby Baby Baby

Wednesday, June 17, 2009

DDOSBS#59 - Phantom Planet

If, back in the day, Pavlov would have swapped his lab-dogs with 16 year-olds and changed the bell stimulus with the intro to Phantom Planet's 'California', it is pretty likely that he would have ended up with the same results of classical conditioning (not to mention saliva-filled test-tubes).

But the creative minds behind this Californian indie band have more up their alley besides producing theme songs for 'The O.C.'.
This track is a bit faster, but just as catchy.

Phantom Planet: Do The Panic

Tuesday, June 16, 2009

DDOSBS#58 - Outkast

The careers of the Pearle-sporting duo Outkast have been in a bit of a media-chaos for a while now. With both Andre 3000 and Big Boi waking up as movie stars and going to bed as rock stars, with some TV debuts and further sideprojects (including Big Boi's desire of becoming the future mayor of Atlanta) thrown in during the day, its easy to lose track of what the two Atlanta rappers are up to.

Originally they planned a joint album to follow up their 2006 Idlewild soundtrack project. The word spread that the boys would instead first go solo for a bit, before combining their creative powers in the future. 3 years later, the two are still claiming their releases should be around the corner.
Over the years, several songs (1, 2 and 3) from the side of Big Boi leaked, but most turned out to be about the musical equivalent of the rapper's 'Who's Your Caddy' movie.
In either case, with the title 'Sir Luscious Left Foot: The Son of Chico Dusty', it's obvious that the boys are up to their usual shenanigans once again.

But for now, this will certainly still do:

Outkast - PJ and Rooster

Monday, June 15, 2009

DDOSBS#57 - Nicola Fasano vs Pat Rich

It is often interesting to see how far a melody can travel throughout the music industry.
First, check out this song:

Nicola Fasano vs Pat Rich - 75, Brazil Street



Now, it is a well-known fact that between artists there is a lot of 'borrowing,' it's normal. Remixes are also all around, especially in the dance scene. If with the previous song you thought: "Hey, I recognize that tune." it's very likely. Let's go back, way back, to the 1979 disco scene:

Chicago - Street Player



Next stop, 90's Techno:
The Bucketheads - The Bomb

By now, in the bubble of dance music, recycling becomes more obvious:
Wideboys (feat. Claire Evers) - Bomb The Secret



It is at this point that Djs Nicola Fasano and Pat Rich decided to put the scissors on the tune and give it a House wrapper, as you can hear above.

And who else would be at the end of this long and abusive road of sampling but Cuban rapper Pitbull to embrace the tune and inject it once more with a shot of epinephrine and Top 40 bliss.
Although he's known to be quite the rustler, Pitbull has been on a cover-bender for his last couple of hits, introducing his reggaeton and pop audience to the sound of Dance/House music. (For additional examples: 1, 2 and 3)

Pitbull - I Know You Want Me (Calle Ocho)

Sunday, June 14, 2009

DDOSBS#56 - Nellie Lutcher

The late Nellie Lutcher (1912-2007) was "most recognizable for her distinctive voice, particularly her phrasing and exaggerated pronunciation" (Wikipedia, coming in handy).

Enjoy this song, some classic jazz.

Nellie Lutcher - Zoom



Also check out the song "Fine Brown Frame", here, but expect an overly liberal/literal video interpretation of the song's title...

Saturday, June 13, 2009

DDOSBS#55 - Athlete

Those British and their rock.

Athlete - Hurricane

Friday, June 12, 2009

DDOSBS#54 - The Maccabees

Interestingly enough, the Maccabees got their band name by flicking through the Bible and picking a random word. Despite the band's reference to the word of God, none of the members from this Brighton-based band claim to be particularly religious.

The Maccabees only recently released their second album, Wall of Arms. This here is a song from their first record Colour It In, to get you up to speed.

The Maccabees - Toothpaste Kisses

Thursday, June 11, 2009

DDOSBS#53 - Miike Snow

Several months ago, the unknown trio behind Miike Snow did a lap around the musical blogosphere with a bleep-bloop makeover to a Vampire Weekend track.

Having played the anonymous card for a while and reaped its promotional fruit, the boys decided it was time to take off their antlered-rabbit masks and reveal their faces. Out stepped music producer Andrew Wyatt and the R&B-production-duo Bloodshy & Avant, who are known as the minds behind some of the music of Spears, Madonna, Minogue and other billion-dollar pop divas.

Nonetheless, the trio's self-titled debut album reveals nothing of their musical past. "Animal", the opening song, is a breezy pop-meets-synthesizer track.

Miike Snow - Animal

Wednesday, June 10, 2009

DDOSBS#52 - Pink Martini

Pink Martini. Pretty cool name for a band. It sounds just as chilled out as the music they make.

Browsing through Wikipedia, we learn that their music "is often described as "vintage music"". Good description, seeing how, within their music, many different styles can be pinpointed, including a load of influences from Latin, Lounge, Classical and Jazz. Think 50's to 70's with a modern twist.

The plan was to post the track The Gardens of Sampson & Beasley. You have to love the 'vintage', there we go, electric organ in it. However, as of yet it has not been uploaded to youtube, hence, no link.

Listen to No Hay Problema instead, which already has the cool just because of the title.

Pink Martini - No Hay Problema

Tuesday, June 9, 2009

DDOSBS#51 - Albert Hammond Jr.

Albert Hammond Jr; you might not have heard of him, but as the rhythm guitarist and occasional vocalist of the band The Strokes, you might recognize him.
Up to this day he has released two solo albums, apart from his continued band-involvement.

This track is from the first album Yours to Keep. His second release, Como the Llama, is said to be more diverse, expanding on the indie/rock style that is the signature of his first album and of the work done with The Strokes.

Interesting to know: Albert is planning to co-design a line of men's suits. He is known for his stylish three piece suits, influencing the Strokes' appearance in this way.

Albert Hammond Jr. - Hard to Live (in the City)



A live version is all you get for this song. Check out his myspace for more.

Monday, June 8, 2009

DDOSBS#50 - The National

Brooklyn-based rock band The National will be celebrating its decennial anniversary sometime this year. This makes it a decade ago since the five friends stepped out of their respective careers within the thén booming 'dot-com bubble' and out into the spotlight with some stunningly mature indie rock.

Let this track simmer for a bit.
Berninger's deep baritone voice leads on as the initial callow piano-play finally turns into the band's full grandiose. Horns and everything.

The National - Fake Empire

Sunday, June 7, 2009

DDOSBS#49 - Shwayze

From the 'Rich Girls' Mixtape, the Malibu boys behind Shwayze put a twist on 'L.E.S. Artistes' by Santigold (you know, the one formerly known as Santogold).

This is just a warm-up; the new Shwayze album releases next month.

Shwayze - What Am I Doing Here?

Saturday, June 6, 2009

DDOSBS#48 - The Count & Sinden featuring Kid Sister

Boy and we thought the beeper was sooo last century.

The Count & Sinden - Beeper (feat. Kid Sister)

Friday, June 5, 2009

Show Review: Phoenix at Trouw Amsterdam

The French quartet of alt rock band Phoenix hit Amsterdam last night. So did DDOS.


Phoenix played their concert on June 4th in the fairly new venue Trouw, a former newspaper pressing facility, in Amsterdam. The original architect utilized a great deal of concrete and high ceilings, giving the building a very industrial feel. A definite pro for the venue is that it is fairly long but not very wide, this makes it feel intimate even when the place is packed with 600 people.

Initially it appeared the band drew a very high percentage of 'converse-and-checked-shirt people' but by the start of the show the crowd was made up out of a good mix of all kinds of individuals. The band opened with Listzomania one of the leading songs of their new album Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix. Although the album has only been out for a week now, the wave of recognition and enthusiasm that went through the crowd must have been extremely welcoming for Phoenix. Somewhat suspicious was the fact that most people seemed to know the lyrics perfectly well considering the short time the album has had to settle since its release...

The live performance that Phoenix gave away didn't leave much to wish for. Instruments and vocals were perfectly adjusted to each other and the only thing that really differed from the album versions of the songs was the extra Pow of energy the band sent hurling towards the audience. Chapeau for the boys for being able to sweep up the Dutch crowd, who are generally known for being extremely absorbent at concerts and shows. During the encore, where Phoenix played If I Ever Feel Better and 1901 the whole crowd was nodding along feverishly and even some hands were raised.

The band played nearly all the songs on their new album, interspersed with some of their older work. The vocal skills by frontman Thomas Mars during live performance were admirable. His signature voice seemed to get all the notes right effortlessly. Sound quality at the venue was superb. Lighting was interesting although sometimes a bit heavy on back-lighting. At least the people in the far back got to see the band members' silhouettes. Finding your way to the back of this venue to get some drinks was a bit of a hassle and definitely means losing your spot. But for most people it was about the music anyway.

All in all, great entertainment.


Frontman Thomas Mars



The new venue Trouw in Amsterdam


DDOSBS#47 - Phoenix

For those that had to miss out on the concert; here's the vibrant new single. Let it catch you.

Phoenix - Lisztomania

Thursday, June 4, 2009

DDOSBS#46 - Jon Foreman

If you're not familiar with the name Jon Foreman, you might just recognize his crooning voice from the music of Christ-loving alternative rock band Switchfoot.

Last year the singer/guitarist decided to go solo for a while.
Foreman put out four EPs, each reflecting one of the four seasons (just like Vivaldi did).

If you hadn't guessed, this one is from the Autumn record.

Jon Foreman - The Cure For Pain

Wednesday, June 3, 2009

DDOSBS#45 - Lykke Li (Fred Falke Remix)

Finally, the summer is really upon us, blessing us all with sun, bikinis and farmer's tan (sorry Southern-Hemispherers, you're missing out).

This also means the anticipation of the 2009 Ibiza season. Outside of to the people who are jetting to the sun-filled island in the Mediterranean to take part in the infamous party scene, this also brings joy for those not actually going there.

Ibiza-themed compilations are being released bringing the best of the chilled-out Balearic House for the day time and club-bangers for the night time. With the compilation label Ministry of Sound releasing titles such as Clubbers Guide to Ibiza '09 and the Ibiza Annual the summer should be packed with some dance hits. Also, especially do not forget the notorious Hed Kandi releases. The laid back house vibe is the label's signature style. The cover art by Jason Brooks definitely ads to this feeling.

Since most releases are still planned for the coming months, some songs will be featured at a later point. In the meantime, enjoy this one, which is a remix that adds a twist to the original song. In between the electronic bleeps and beats there is a refrain that's pure white sand covered bliss.

Enjoy the summer.

Lykke Li - I'm Good, I'm Gone (Fred Falke Remix)

Tuesday, June 2, 2009

DDOSBS#44 - Caravan Palace

They combine festivity with franticness,

gypsy jazz with an electro sound.

and

their Django-addiction with Puppini-esque vocals.

That is Caravan Palace.

Caravan Palace - Jolie Coquine

Monday, June 1, 2009

DDOSBS#43 - Friendly Fires

Remixing a song can usually go two ways.
Sometimes, a remix can add some much-needed umph to a stodgy track. On the other hand, a remix can also turn an great original into a corny replication.

By adding your own lyrics, a remix can be an easy way to join in on the credit claim of a song, while in other cases, a remix can take a futile song and give it a hit-wonder metamorphose.

Aside from all this, a remix can simply be used as a form of artistic interpretation, in which the original is pulled apart and turned into something different all together.

Friendly Fires - Paris



This song was remixed as well, decide for yourself how it turned out.

Friendly Fires - Paris (Aeroplane Remix) (Feat. Au Revoire)

Sunday, May 31, 2009

DDOSBS#42 - Belleruche

Belleruche, they describe their music as "Turntable Soul." Sounds rather artistic, but the music is straightforward.

How was the band formed, you ask? Their label's site provides the answer.
The two male members "who played weird turntable and guitar sets in London bars", bumped into their soon-to-be female vocalist at a market. Forming a band in between the fruit stand and fish-vendor worked out for these guys.

Their work was previously released under their own label, antithetically called Hippoflex.
Enjoy.

Belleruche - Anything You Want (Not That)

Saturday, May 30, 2009

DDOSBS#41 - Josh Rouse

Josh Rouse (1972) has been featured on DDOS earlier, in a joint effort with Paz Suay.

This time, he's on his own. The song Summertime is a catchy chilled-out tune. It fits the song title, really. The bass and drums kick in late in the track but are worth the wait.

Josh Rouse - Summertime



Also check out Love Vibration

Friday, May 29, 2009

DDOSBS#40 - Majek Fashek

"I was born with dreadlocks"
That's how Majek Fashek likes to recall his childbirth.
Fact or fiction, it was clear from the start that the young Nigerian boy was destined for a career in reggae.

The Marley sound-a-like has been releasing music since the 80s and has, with his "The Best Of..." album, certified his status in the international music scene.

Majek Fashek - Love And Affection

Thursday, May 28, 2009

DDOSBS#39 - Kenneth Bager feat. Julee

Here's a chill-out 101 track for you.

Chill-out music is often found on nondescript compilation CD's, of which a probable 99% of the featured artists wouldn't ring a bell with most people.

Upon closer inspection one can find some pretty decent songs on these CD's though. And with a little additional detective work, it turns out that there's an intricate little world behind these track-lists. You'll run into the same artists more often and see how they, their record and the production labels are one big musical-web.

This particular artist is from Denmark.

Kenneth Bager (Feat. Julee) - Fragment Two... The First Picture

Wednesday, May 27, 2009

DDOSBS#38 - Benny Goodman

There was a time when swing jazz was the name of the game and Benny Goodman played team-captain.

This "King of Swing" was born in a large but poverty-stricken Jewish family around the turn of the 20th Century. Nonetheless, Benny Goodman grew out to become the most celebrated big-band leader in musical history. Blowing his jazz clarinet like there was no tomorrow, he set in motion the Swing Era, thereby opening a new epoch in American popular music.

Take it away Benny!

Benny Goodman - Medley (1937) [from the movie Hollywood Hotel]



For something a bit more familiar to the ear check "Sing Sing Sing (With A Swing)" (1936)

Tuesday, May 26, 2009

DDOSBS#37 - Sean Bones

Throw a few reggea-cuts, a dollop of breezy pop vibes, a bit of doo-wop and a pair of canvas shorts in a blender, and here is what would pour out:

Sean Bones - Easy Street

You can give a listen to the track (and more!) on his Myspace.

Monday, May 25, 2009

DDOSBS#36 - Van She

Van She was featured on DDOS earlier for their work on a remix. They make some descent music themselves as well.

This song is from their 2008 album release "V". Most of the songs were written in a farmhouse south of Sydney, Australia. The band recorded the album in London, UK.

This Very First Record of the band is laden with their signature electropop style. Within this style, this particular song features the band in Pure Pop Mode. Enjoy the synths, and that feeling of cruising-down-the-road-over-the-bay-with-the-top-down-wind-in-your-hair.

Van She - Changes



The song Strangers is a blast as well.

Sunday, May 24, 2009

DDOSBS#35 - Dizzee Rascal

British rapper Dizzee Rascal is at it again, adding a layer of electro to his already club-like grime rap. To get the job properly done, he pairs up with Armin van Buuren (one of many in the seemingly bottomless pool of famous Dutch DJs).

Dizzee Rascal - Bonkers (Feat. Armin Van Buuren)

Saturday, May 23, 2009

DDOSBS#34 - Scarlett Johansson

We all know what happens when a Hollywood starlet takes a stab at the music scene (example 1, 2, and how can we forget 3).
Or do we really know?

Thespian talent Scarlett Johansson surprised us all in 2008 with her swooner record "Lay My Head", which consisted almost only of covers of the bourbon-voiced legend Tom Waits.
Scarlett seems to be up for a repeat, this time planning a Serge Gainsbourg-inspired follow-up album. For this she is teaming up with singer/songwriter Pete Yorn.

The album, 'Break Up' is not due until September, but the first single "Relator" is up for streams on the album's website.

Scarlett Johansson - Relator

Click here and give it a listen.

Friday, May 22, 2009

DDOSBS#33 - Rob Base and DJ E-Z Rock

Straight from 1988, taking it back old school. This track has a James Brown sample in it. Sometimes, older songs lose their glamour because of out-dated technology, but this one can kick it anytime, the beat just goes.

Rob Base and DJ E-Z Rock - It Takes Two



Although this HipHop classic has been used as "inspiration" for many a track (see Ciara, The Fresh Prince and more...), the credit for that infamous "Woo!Yeah!" break-beat should go to Lyn Collins (1972) (check 1:24 onwards). That's double milking for ya.

Thursday, May 21, 2009

DDOSBS#32 - Menomena

Although this is a random indie-rock band, the song's quite pleasant. Appreciate the melancholic instrumentals.

Oh yeah, something interesting about the artist as well. Hmmm... The band swaps around instruments during shows and recording sessions. And they all sing.

Menomena - Wet and Rusting

Wednesday, May 20, 2009

DDOSBS#31 - Paco De Lucia

'Paco De Lucia' is the stage name of Spanish guitarist Francisco Gómez (1947-). Having been raised in a family of flamenco performers, the young artist was soon to follow suit.
Gómez has been appraised as a virtuoso guitar player and although he is considered as the torchbearer of Modern Flamenco, the occasional cross-over into jazz or classical is not evaded.

What this guy pulls off with a sextuplet of gut strings is simply mesmerizing.

Paco De Lucia - Entre Dos Aguas (1976)

Tuesday, May 19, 2009

DDOSBS#30 - Zee Avi

Remember Zee Avi? Well, the Jack Johnson posse-member is finally ready to take on the big game. Having conquered the hearts of her ever-growing Youtube audience, Zee (also known as KokoKaina) released her self-titled debut album today.

This petite Malaysian's mature and soulful voice sure packs a punch!

Zee Avi - Bitter Heart

Monday, May 18, 2009

DDOSBS#29 - Amy Winehouse vs. Peter, Bjorn & John

"Why didn't I think of that?"

Mash-ups have appeared on DDOS before, not too often though.

In Mash-up land, there are tons of songs, but most just don't cut it. The songs by themselves are often significantly better than their product when put together.

Sometimes, however, a combination seems so natural, that you're surprised you haven't heard it before.

These songs merge well, and the versus becomes a with.

Amy Winehouse
vs. Peter, Bjorn & John - Young Folks in Rehab

Sunday, May 17, 2009

DDOSBS#28 - No Through Road

It seems Australia has its Instant-Rockband-Workmill turned to full blast again, spouting out another rock-ensemble.

The first single "Party To Survive" from No Through Road's last-month's album release 'Winner' might have some overly raw-boned vocals, but those guitars have a mind of their own.
These guys are going somewhere.

No Through Road - Party To Survive