Covering the crossroads of music and film.
HODGEPODGE
Mike Tyson's Punch-Out!!, The Movie
By Jim Shearer on 04/30/2009
Filed under: HODGEPODGE, LISTSEven though a Mike Tyson documentary, Tyson, was just released last week, and Jamie Foxx is currently promoting his film, The Soloist, there is already talk of the multi-faceted actor portraying Iron Mike in an upcoming biopic. MORE »
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Indie Ear Crossword Puzzle #5
By Jim Shearer on 04/29/2009
Filed under: HODGEPODGE
Like crossword puzzles? Like indie-minded music? Need something to do to make your work day a little more interesting? I think we've got just the thing for you: MORE »
Indie Ear Crossword Puzzle #5 (Answers)
By Jim Shearer on 04/29/2009
Filed under: HODGEPODGEAlright kids, time to see how you did... MORE »
Who Is This "Rock Star" They're Talking About?
By Jim Shearer on 04/27/2009
Filed under: HODGEPODGE
While reading this week's Sports Illustrated, an article's ("It's Like You Never Left, Kid") sub-headline caught my attention: Grown Men reduced to tears, a rock star downloading 14-year-old playoff footage on his iPhone, an entire city falling in love all over again: Ken Griffey Jr. is back in Seattle, and, damn, it feels good MORE »
You Know Your Band Has Made It When...
By Jim Shearer on 04/16/2009
Filed under: HODGEPODGE
Like many other music-minded New Yorkers, I'm in a band. I do it mostly for fun, but, yes, there are some afternoons where I daydream of selling out an arena show, leaping into an adoring crowd, and being passed around from the floor all the way to the upper-deck seats in section 808? MORE »
Did I Really See That Last Night?
By Jim Shearer on 03/31/2009
Filed under: HODGEPODGE
Though I'm currently battling flu-like symptoms, I'm pretty sure I saw what I think I saw last night: MORE »
Name That CD
By Jim Shearer on 03/30/2009
Filed under: HODGEPODGE
With CD's inevitably going the way of the dinosaur, 8-tracks, cassette tapes, Blender Magazine and Crystal Clear Pepsi; CD artwork isn't too far behind. Yes, album covers will always exist--even if they're just reduced to being a piece of clip art on your iPod screen--but what about artwork on the CD itself? MORE »
Casting Has Begun For My Movie About U2
By Jim Shearer on 03/25/2009
Filed under: HODGEPODGEInspired by their picture on the cover of SPIN Magazine and my recent review of Cadillac Records, I've decided that I'm going to write/direct/produce a full-length motion picture on the lives and times of U2--yes, another musical biopic, if you will. MORE »
The Art of Drawing a Wiener
By Jim Shearer on 03/24/2009
Filed under: HODGEPODGEWhenever I used to host MTV2's Subterranean--which for a while we shot in actual basements--the bands and I would always joke that there wasn't a basement or dive bar in New York City that didn't feature at least one penis drawing. This kid in England took it to a whole other level. MORE »
A New Phrase to Add To Your Indie Music Vocabularly
By Jim Shearer on 03/13/2009
Filed under: HODGEPODGE
Looking to drop some indie music terminology this weekend? Tired of the same old, same old? Have the words amazing and atmospheric run their course? MORE »
Is the Free Credit Report Band Legit?
By Jim Shearer on 03/09/2009
Filed under: HODGEPODGEThis weekend, after watching one of those FreeCreditReport.com commercials for, what felt like, the one-millionth time, I finally decided to do some investigative work. I know this topic has already been broached on several internet news and blog sites, but because many of my friends and family continually ask me about this particular series of commercials, I felt the need to do some research of my own. The question I get asked the most is: Is that a real band playing in the commercials? MORE »
Indie Ear Crossword Puzzle #4
By Jim Shearer on 03/05/2009
Filed under: HODGEPODGE
As mentioned on the intro bar above, sometimes I like to spring the occasional indie-minded music, crossword puzzle on you guys. This is one of those times: MORE »
The True Scientist of Sound
By Jim Shearer on 03/05/2009
Filed under: HODGEPODGE
Came across this article yesterday on a blog called Music Machinery, written by, Paul Lamere, a former software programmer. MORE »
My Favorite New Use of "Eye of The Tiger"
By Jim Shearer on 03/03/2009
Filed under: HODGEPODGE, VIDEO BLOG
Gotta love any Rocky montage put behind Survivor's 1982 hit, "Eye of The Tiger." Back in his early WWF days, Hulk Hogan also used it as his entrance music. Then, just a couple years ago, Survivor spoofed their hit song in a Starbucks commercials ("Glen, Glen-Glen-Glen!"). Last week, I was glad to hear the tune pop up again in another commercial. "Eye of The Tiger" seems very fitting for the return of the following person: MORE »
Conan's Finale (and Where Were Meg's Drums?)
By Jim Shearer on 02/23/2009
Filed under: HODGEPODGE
For those that didn't see Conan O'Brien's Late Night finale on Friday night (or I guess Saturday morning), it was everything a finale can be (can't think of anything he really left out). MORE »
What Do These Guys Have In Common?
By Jim Shearer on 02/17/2009
Filed under: HODGEPODGE
What do Taylor Hawkins (Foo Fighters), music video director, Samuel Bayer, Lupe Fiasco, and Billie Joe Armstrong (Green Day) all have in common? MORE »
Hooray! and Boo! for Coachella
By Jim Shearer on 02/05/2009
Filed under: HODGEPODGE, NEWSSo the organizers of Coachella finally announced their line-up for this year's festival (April 17-19). As expected, one of the most anticipated U.S. festivals of the year boasts an amazing line-up (that's right, I busted out the word "amazing"). Paul McCartney, Morrissey, Franz Ferdinand, Leonard Cohen, and Conor Oberst play the first day. The Killers, Amy Winehouse, Thievery Corporation, and TV on The Radio will play Saturday. And The Cure, My Bloody Valentine, and Yeah Yeah Yeahs will close out this year's Coachella proceedings. (left: I wanna see bands reunited!@#!) Here's where I kick and cry like a little... MORE »
The Music Behind My Super Weekend
By Jim Shearer on 02/02/2009
Filed under: HODGEPODGEIf you give me a few hours, I could deliver you 20 different blog postings on the Pittsburgh Steelers' you're-freakin'-givin'-me-a-heart-attack Super Bowl victory last night. (If you're not from Pittsburgh, you might not understand why the city is so obsessed with its football team.) (left: Here we go Steelers! Here we go!) Because this isn't ESPN.com, I'll spare you the sports analysis and stick with the music that centered around my Super weekend in Pittsburgh: MORE »
Springsteen's Super Bowl Playlist
By Jim Shearer on 01/30/2009
Filed under: HODGEPODGE, LISTSEven if you're not into sports, I'm sure you're well aware of the fact that Super Bowl Sunday is only a couple days away. Sports-minded or not, I'm sure there's a good chance you'll be dipping into a bowl of spinach & artichoke dip at a party centered around the big game. If you don't know, (my hometown!) Pittsburgh Steelers will be facing off against the Arizona Cardinals. (left: The Boss gets ready to rock a Super-Bowl-sized Super Bowl crowd this Sunday.) Not into the teams? How 'bout the halftime show then? Bruce Springsteen & The E Street Band... MORE »
Indie Ear Crossword Puzzle #3
By Jim Shearer on 01/29/2009
Filed under: HODGEPODGEContinue reading for ANSWERS... MORE »
Your Brand New Favorite Barack Obama Shirt
By Jim Shearer on 01/27/2009
Filed under: HODGEPODGEJust in case your Hope or Change t-shirts are in the wash... I'm President Barack, there is none higher, Prime Ministers should call me sire. To burn the White House you must use fire I won't stop Barackin' till I retire. MORE »
People Getting Punched In The Face
By Jim Shearer on 01/15/2009
Filed under: HODGEPODGETo give you a blow-by-blow recap (pun soon to be intended) of my winter house cleaning, I am now reorganizing my CD's and have already come across four album covers with dudes getting punched in the face. (top to bottom: Pantera's Vulger Display Of Power, Alice in Chains' Greatest Hits, House of Pain's Same As It Ever Was, and Dropkick Murphys' The Warrior's Code.) In addition to helping me out with my tree query (see post below), if you can help my obsessed brain think of any more album covers featuring knock-out blows, I'd be very appreciative. Thanks!... MORE »
Trees, Trees, and More Trees
By Jim Shearer on 01/15/2009
Filed under: HODGEPODGEIn between blog posts I've been spending most of my January re-tidying my apartment, which has given me the opportunity to notice things a little more (you never realize all the fun stuff you have laying around until you have to swipe it with a dust rag). (left: The picture I stare at when I need to take a cleaning time-out.) In between cleaning missions, I'd plop down on my couch and stare at the wall, which is decorated with a framed art-print of a tree my friend Troy gave me for being a wingman in his wedding last... MORE »
Illinois' Third Chapter
By Sarah Pesin on 01/13/2009
Filed under: HODGEPODGE, VIDEO BLOGIt seems that Mr. Indie Ear's favorite band to talk about is the Beastie Boys, and if anyone knows him, that makes complete sense. For me, it appears that Illinois are the band to talk about. I believe this is my third post about that quirky foursome. But to be fair, there's always much to be said. Illinois seem to be closely following the Presidential election with the release of their Kid Catastrophe chapters. Their first release happened to be on the now historic Election Day, and their third chapter is out just in time for Obama to be sworn... MORE »
Notorious
By Jim Shearer on 01/12/2009
Filed under: HODGEPODGEI'm not saying it's going to be good, I'm not saying I'm going to see it on opening day (January 16), but I am saying that I'm very curious. I'm always rooting for a good movie about music: MORE »
Lil' Wayne's Reign Continues
By Jim Shearer on 01/08/2009
Filed under: HODGEPODGENot too long ago on the Indie Ear blog we pointed out that Lil' Wayne, curiously, became one of music's biggest stars in 2008. For an artist who doesn't shy away from explicit material in his music ("Pussy Monster" anyone?), it's surprising how the mainstream folk have embraced him. This week, Lil' Wayne took some time out of his busy schedule (which also includes writing a sports blog for ESPN Magazine) to sit across from the quick-lipped Skip Bayless on an episode of ESPN's 1st & 10 (a daily program that breaks down the latest headlines in sports). The opinionated... MORE »
The New Year Begins With a Less Than Stellar Start
By Jim Shearer on 01/05/2009
Filed under: HODGEPODGEHappy New Year! Today is the first day many Americans are returning to work from their holiday breaks. 2008 is over and 2009 is on. Blogs will get back to business as normal, and the search for the 10 best albums of the year begins all over again. So here's my question for the first cerebral day of 2009--with so much promise in the upcoming year and so much to celebrate from the previous one (though it did have its share of crappy moments), why does the start of a new year always suck? (left: Don't judge a year... MORE »
...And On To 2009
By Jim Shearer on 01/02/2009
Filed under: HODGEPODGETo the Indie Ear faithful (I really hope I'm not taking liberties by saying that), you may have noticed that during the last few weeks this very blog has been littered and/or garnished (you pick) with best-of/year-end lists for 2008. Not only was it fun to do this (some might say "lazy"), but it's a necessity as the world of music goes on shut-down mode between the week of Christmas and New Year's. (left: 2009, the last year we'll be able to make these type of sunglasses.) I'm here to let you know, two days into 2009, that my... MORE »
Pitchfork's Album Of The Year
By Jim Shearer on 12/19/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGEToday, Pitchfork Media unveiled their Top Albums of 2008, and surprisingly their #1 was not TV On The Radio's Dear Science. MORE »
Best Songs Used in Commercials for 2008
By Jim Shearer on 12/16/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGEAdvertsing Age recently released their list for Ad Songs of The Year. Topping the list is one we discussed earlier this year. (left: A song about reparations used in a sneaker commercial was Ad Age's favorite.) [VIA] MORE »
TV On The Radio, Best of 2008?
By Jim Shearer on 12/15/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGE, IT'S LIKE THATLots of people love the month of December. This is the magical time of year for them to partake in the joys of drinking eggnog, singing holiday tunes, and shopping until they're physically unable to walk anymore (yes, believe it or not, some people do find joy in this). Music critics love the month of December--maybe not so much for the reasons mentioned above--but because this is the time of year for them to release their Top-10 (20,30,40, 50, whatever) albums of the year list. I always find it a tad unbelievable when a handful of music outlets share... MORE »
Four Paws Mixtape
By Jim Shearer on 12/10/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGEFour Paws, a NJ-based publicity company that "celebrates the nurturing of free expression through music," recently assembled a mixtape, highlighting many of the artists they worked with in 2008, including Deerhoof, Hawnay Troof, Xiu Xiu, and Mirror Mirror. (left: Side A is the dog, Side B is the cat.) Listen HERE. MORE »
Name That Band...
By Jim Shearer on 12/09/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGESometimes the mind wonders and does stupid things (this is is one of those times). Play along with me here, okay? Can you name this band (continue reading to find the answer): MORE »
Yes...A Brand New I.S.H.C. Song!
By Jim Shearer on 12/05/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGEOne of my biggest surprises of 2008 was the International Superheroes of Hardcore. For those that don't know, this is the "hardcore" alter-ego of pop-punkers New Found Glory. This year they released an entire hardcore album that not only sounds legit (yes, Madball and Sick Of It All would approve), but it's hilarious as hell. This week they released a new song, "Keepin' It Real," on their MySpace page. The guys may get upset with me saying this, but I think New Found Glory (at least at this point in time) should take a back seat and let Captain... MORE »
Totally, Amazing
By Jim Shearer on 12/01/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGEI hereby declare that creators of indie music podcasts should no longer use the words "totally" or "amazing" unless something is truly, "totally amazing." Thank you. MORE »
10 Things To Do On Black Friday (Besides Shop)
By Jim Shearer on 11/28/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGE10. Listen to Metallica's or Jay-Z's Black Album. 9. Count how many times Black Rob says "whoa" in his 1999 hit, "Whoa." 8. Take the Indie Ear Black music quiz. 7. Give your black cat a fist-pound. (left: This is my black cat, and, yes, I already gave her a fist-pound today.) 6. Pull out your guitar and attempt to play AC/DC's "Back In Black" while simultaneously duck-walking like Angus Young. 5. Watch one of the funniest music videos of the year, The Black Keys' "Strange Times." 4. Cross your fingers for the sake of our economy and hope... MORE »
My Thanksgiving Recap
By Jim Shearer on 11/28/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGEAnother Thanksgiving come, another Thanksgiving go. Here are some of my higlights and low-lights from yesterday: T-DAY HIGHLIGHTS: Four Pittsburghers celebrating Thanksgiving in a small NYC apartment. The homemade meal was strong, and because I haven't puked within the last 12 hours, it means I didn't undercook the turkey (whew). (left: I'm thankful for 1. Me not cutting off a finger while carving the turkey, 2. Trimmings, trimmings, and more trimmings, and, 3. Spending T-Day with these three lovely ladies!) Foo Fighters as the special guests on Top Chef. Dave Grohl critiquing Thanksgiving dinner equals television gold! Green bean... MORE »
The Many Faces of Axl Rose
By Jim Shearer on 11/25/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGEHere's a look back at some of my favorite Axl Rose personas over the years. Enjoy! Catcher's-Vest Axl Not only was Axl's catcher's vest a nice fashion accessory, but I'm sure it also protected him on many occasions when drunk fans chucked beer bottles on stage. Young-Backwards-Baseball-Cap Axl He looks so young, so innocent, how could this kid ever get on someone's bad side? Hairspray Axl Though GN'R helped put an end to let's-all-dress-up-like-girls-and-play-hairspray-metal, even Axl had an affinity for the product back in the band's early days. Dinner-Party Axl Honey did you make the reservations for 7PM? Are... MORE »
Guns N' Roses Day!
By Jim Shearer on 11/25/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGEA month or so ago I said that if Axl Rose (ahem, Guns N' Roses) really does release Chinese Democracy this year, I'll dedicate a day's worth of blog postings to him. (left: "That's right, you said a whole day of nuthin' but GN'R.") Well, he kept good on his word, so I'll keep good on mine. Join us today for random Axl Rose and GN'R blog postings... MORE »
From Old To Gold? Still Don't Know?
By Jim Shearer on 11/24/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGEAs we pointed out a couple weeks ago, The Raconteurs have launched a new YouTube channel asking fans to upload their "treasured keepsakes and thrift store finds." The band recently released their second From Old To Gold infomercial parody (see below), and because it takes me twice as long as the normal human-being to figure things out, I still don't know what The Raconteurs have up their sleeve. At first I thought it might have something to do with a future music video, but The Raconteurs just released a video for, "Old Enough," which besides the word "old" has nothing... MORE »
Random Sunday
By Jim Shearer on 11/24/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGEThis is going to be sort of a random blog posting, but here goes: Yesterday while traveling from borough to borough, preparing for Christmas pageants (no lie) and getting some holiday shopping out of the way, two items of music interest caught my ear and eye. 1.) Early in the morning, probably around 8:30AM, I was in a McDonald's out in Queens and heard The Shins, "Australia" play on the muzak system. Sandwiched between songs from Michael Buble and The Spin Doctors, the Shins' modest hit actually held its own. Not only did "Australia" sound just as hit-worthy as... MORE »
All Hail The Mighty Klosterman
By Jim Shearer on 11/21/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGEAuthor, writer, columnist, talking-head, and wordsmith Chuck Klosterman recently did a guest album review for The Onion's AV Club. What album did he critique? Only the one rock fans have been waiting 15 long years to hear. As expected, Klosterman's review cracked me up two sentences into my read. Enjoy! MORE »
I Like To Make Drawings
By Jim Shearer on 11/19/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGEOn Wednesdays I volunteer at a nearby elementary school and attempt to teach kids how to draw. Today, I dropped some Radiohead knowledge and had them sketch Thom Yorke. Are the sketches great? No. But, take a look at them, they're not too far off from the stick drawings Radiohead use in their album artwork and promotional materials. (below: Grade school drawings of Thom Yorke.) MORE »
My Latest YouTube Obsession
By Jim Shearer on 11/18/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGEA few weeks ago I began getting hooked on Ian MacKaye (Dischord Records) YouTube videos. At the time, MacKaye was doing a handful of speaking engagements on the west coast, and since I'm on the east coast, I figured my next best alternative was to listen to him speak via online video clips. Yesterday I came across this one (which is a little less than two years old). At a city council hearing, MacKaye speaks against a proposed ban on all-ages shows, following the shooting death of a minor in a Washington D.C. night club. (For those that don't know,... MORE »
Saying Goodbye To TRL with Haikus
By Jim Shearer on 11/17/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGEI don't know if this popped up on anyone's radar, but last night MTV said farewell to its former flagship show, TRL (Total Request Live). Demonstrating how popular TRL had become, or how low it had sunk, I found out about the finale through a text message from my mother. I was never a fan of the show, so when I found out it was being cancelled, I'd be lying if I told you I didn't feel some sense of joy run through my veins. On the other hand, I had a lot of friends who worked on the... MORE »
The Raconteurs Want Your Trash
By Jim Shearer on 11/13/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGETrash? Yes, The Raconteurs want your trash. But you know that old saying, right? One man's trash is another man's treasure. It's still unclear what The Raconteurs have up their sleeve, but here's what we know thus far--they've created both a website and a YouTube channel called From Old To Gold and are asking fans to upload their lost treasures, appropriately tagging their videos: From Old To Gold Could it be for an upcoming video? Or have The Raconteurs unhatched this diabolic scheme just to come across some really cool thrift store finds? Unfortunately, I don't have any answers at... MORE »
Kool Keith Sighting
By Jim Shearer on 11/12/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGEBecause me and my buddy/blog-pioneer Troy B. Mouer once went to a Lollapalooza just to see Dr. Octagon (Kool Keith), only to find out that he cancelled (because he allegedly used his Lollapalooza advance to buy dirty magazines), we always get excited when he honors a live concert commitment. Troy managed to track him down at this year's Fun Fun Fun Fest in Austin, TX. Here are some PIX. [VIA] MORE »
Finally...Christmas Is Here!
By Jim Shearer on 11/11/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGEToday--November 11, 2008--The Flaming Lips will FINALLY release to the public their self-financed, made-in-the-backyard, holiday/outer space-inspired motion picture entitled, Christmas On Mars. To celebrate, The Flaming Lips are also offering a Mega Deluxe Edition of the film (watch the video below for all the details): Christmas On Mars (by the way, don't expect a high-end Hollywood production) has been in the works for many, many years. I first met the Flaming Lips almost six years ago, and even then the film was a few years in the making. Wayne Coyne, being the Wayne Coyne that he is, never ducked the... MORE »
Who Here Is NOT a PC?
By Jim Shearer on 11/10/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGEThis little pop quiz might help jump-start your brain on this Monday afternoon. Of the following people (clockwise from top: Girl Talk, Pharrell Williams, Erykah Badu), who is NOT a PC? MORE »
Poundin' Home The Message
By Jim Shearer on 11/04/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGELast time, I promise... The flash 8 plugin was not detected. var so = new SWFObject("/static/bc/ifc_generic_blog.swf", "vote", "380", "295", "8", "#ffffff"); so.addParam("wmode", "transparent"); //change player width so.addVariable("pwidth", 380); //change player height so.addVariable("pheight", 285); //distinguish between different videos so.addVariable("s_movieID", "vote"); //insert brightcove title id here so.addVariable("bctid", 1900221391); so.write("vote"); MORE »
I Just Voted!
By Jim Shearer on 11/04/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGEYes indeedy, I woke up at the crack of dawn to cast my vote (figured the lines would be shorter at 6AM than 6PM). Still blows my mind though that the fate of the free world is decided in bingo halls across the country, while senior citizen volunteers stand guard over voting machines that have been in use for the last 50 or so years. It's both frightening and awesome at the same time! (left: Me and my voter registration card.) MORE »
Saul Williams' Open Letter to History
By Jim Shearer on 11/03/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGENo stranger to writing open letters and thought provoking poetry, Saul Williams recently wrote an Open Letter to History, on the eve of one of the most crucial Election Days of our time: Dear History, For too long have I pondered your meaning, memorized dates of battles, years of servitude, decades of injustice, named eras after movements, mourned the extinction of species, cursed founding fathers, worn vintage suits and cloaked myself with references of your hold on me. I have walked through museums wondering how it is that greatness had lived and died all before my time. Parts of... MORE »
Ben Stiller Gets His Root Down
By Jim Shearer on 11/03/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGE, VIDEO BLOGDuring a recent stop on the Get Out and Vote tour, Ben Stiller (dressed as the Beastie Boys' Adrock) managed to sneak on stage while the guys were busy doing "The Weave." Here's what happened next: MORE »
B-Boy B-Day!
By Jim Shearer on 10/31/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGEBeastie Boy Adam Horovitz celebrates his 42nd birthday today. He and the Beastie Boys will be taking a night off from their Get Out and Vote tour today, but if you would like to wish the King Adrock belated birthday wishes, he'll be in St. Paul, MN tomorrow night. "October 31st that is my date of birth, I got to the party and I did the Smurf." -Adrock ("The New Style") MORE »
Joe "The Singer"?
By Jim Shearer on 10/30/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGEJoe "The Plumber" Wurzelbacher has reportedly signed a deal with a Nashville-based PR firm to "create new media" opportunities, one which may also include a record deal. Did I stutter? I said RECORD DEAL! So let's role play for a second. If this does happen, and let's say all recorded music is destroyed by a force of nature, except for albums by William Hung, Randy "Macho Man" Savage, Scarlett Johansson, Paris Hilton, and Joe Wurzelbacher, who would be your new favorite artist? Hmm? [VIA]... MORE »
Who Would You Rather See?
By Jim Shearer on 10/28/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGEGuns N' Roses without guitarist, Slash (and, well, the rest of the band) or Led Zeppelin without frontman, Robert Plant*? *and of course John Bonham MORE »
What's Better Than Shopping For Sneakers?
By Jim Shearer on 10/24/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGEDuh, shopping for sneakers while getting a FREE show from one of my favorite bands of the year, The Morning Benders. Indie-poppers, The Morning Benders, have been playing a string of FREE acoustic sets, some inside of Puma stores. This week they played Boston and New York. So if you're looking for a new pair of Puma suedes and aching to see The Morning Benders (and want to do 'em both at the same time), you have one more chance to do so. If you don't like to mix shoe shopping with your indie music, The Morning Benders are... MORE »
Matt & Kim Bring The Daylight
By Jim Shearer on 10/22/2008
Filed under: FREE SONGS, HODGEPODGE, VIDEO BLOGOne of our Indie Ear faves, Matt & Kim, recently released a a video for their brand new song, "Daylight." As promised to us earlier this year, Matt and Kim's new material shows off their affinity for hip-hop beat-making (as well as proving that they can perform live just about anywhere). We still await their new full length album, which to the best of my knowledge, has no release date and/or label yet. "Daylight" can be downloaded HERE. This Saturday night, Matt & Kim will host the iheartcomix CMJ Party at the Music Hall of Williamsburg.... MORE »
Muse Fight Cancer With B-Side Bootleg
By Jim Shearer on 10/20/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGEOn Muse's website, a bootleg performance of the B-side, "Fury," was recently posted and made available for download. The songs is just a taste of their one-off show (held earlier this year) at Royal Albert Hall, benefiting the Teenage Cancer Trust. There are rumors swirling of a full-length unofficial DVD getting released, with the proceeds going towards the Teenage Cancer Trust. My hunch? Seems pretty plausible, considering the performance of "Fury" is soundboard quality, and the video obviously wasn't shot with a cell-phone camera. Kid Meevin is also digging the set-list for the Royal Albert Hall show, more so... MORE »
Indie Ear Crossword Puzzle #2 (w/ Answers)
By Jim Shearer on 10/17/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGEContinue to Answers... MORE »
Is It Really Going To Happen?
By Jim Shearer on 10/17/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGEYou may have heard, but Guns N' Roses have not only released a track listing, unveiled album artwork, and had a blogger arrested for leaking tracks off their "new" album, but they have also officially posted a release date for their highly-anticipated (but-not-so-much-anymore) Chinese Democracy album, which by the way, will only be available through Best Buy. (left: Whatever happened to the boy that cried "wolf"?) For kids not familiar with Guns 'N Roses, let me give you the quick breakdown: At the dawn of the 90's they were the biggest rock band on the planet. They imploded soon... MORE »
America's New Hero: Joe Plummer!
By Jim Shearer on 10/16/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGEHe's played drums with Modest Mouse, The Black Heart Procession, The Magic Magicians, Bare Minimum, and All Smiles. He was even one of the 88 drummers that participated in the Boredoms' 88 Boadrum Performance, taking place for 88 minutes on August 8, 2008, at you guessed it 8:08PM. But last night the journeymen drummer finally got his due as Presidential hopefuls John McCain and Barack Obama shouted out Joe Plummer about 88 times during their final Presidential Debate. (left: Last night was Joe Plummer's moment in the spotlight.) During the discussion of America's future, Joe Plummer became bigger than... MORE »
Anyone Good With Interpreting Dreams?
By Jim Shearer on 10/15/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGETwo nights ago I had a--I wouldn't call it a bizarre, but maybe more of a random--dream. This doesn't come close to some of the doozies I've had in the past. My friend Bob (a frequent commenter on this very blog) has been immortalized in couple of my weirdest dreams ever--one involving a grandma in a muumuu and another starring James Earl Jones in an airport bathroom (let's save those for another day though). (left: Why were Matt Bellamy, Thom Yorke, and Chris Martin sitting together at a hockey game?) So a couple nights ago while I was sleeping--from... MORE »
Hey, Isn't PA a Swing State Too?
By Jim Shearer on 10/15/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGEIn a rousing example of bipartisanship, the Beastie Boys--my favorite group of all-time (have I ever mentioned that in this blog before?)--have decided to cross musical-genre lines, and will tour with the likes of Sheryl Crow, Jack Johnson, and Norah Jones for the next few weeks to drum up voter interest for Barack Obama in swing states (states in which no candidate has overwhelming support). Because the Beastie Boys have only played Pittsburgh once--my favorite city of all-time (have I ever mentioned that in this blog before?)--and because Pittsburgh is in Pennsylvania, a swing state, I think this is... MORE »
Top 20 Albums of 2008 (as of Today)...
By Jim Shearer on 10/09/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGE, LISTSAs 2008 winds down (let's face it people, we're approaching mid-October already), critics, bloggers, and journalists are slowly starting to think about their best-of, year-end lists. One man, however, doesn't have to begin assembling his Top-20 Albums of 2008 list, because he's been doing it all year long. Say hello to Dave Powers of New Music Nation. (left: NMN's Dave Powers is already 20 steps ahead of you.) Amazingly, he listens to most of the music released throughout the calendar year and critically racks his brain with an intricate grading/scoring system that could make the folks at Pitchfork Media... MORE »
Better Than A Pink Floyd Laser Show
By Jim Shearer on 10/06/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGEEver since The Black Keys released their "Strange Times" video earlier this year, I've been obsessed with lasers. This page reaffirms my love for them (I do love The Black Keys, but I'm actually talking about lasers). [VIA] MORE »
TALK: Material Girl Vs. Scientists of Sound
By Jim Shearer on 10/06/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGE, TALKToday my friend Peter is in town, and he will be taking me to my first ever Madonna concert. (left: Peter and Jim go at it in a no holds barred, Madonna/B-Boy battle.) Over the years Peter has amazed me with his vast knowledge of the Material Girl. His excitement and passion for all things Madonna reminds me of, well, my excitement and passion for the Beastie Boys. Because it would be nearly impossible to determine if I am a bigger Beastie Boys buff than Peter is a Madonna fan, we decided to school each other on our respective... MORE »
Cat Power and Cub Power
By Jim Shearer on 10/03/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGEWhile watching the Major League Baseball Playoffs unfold, I can't help but think of Cat Power every time Chicago Cubs' pitcher Sean Marshall's name is mentioned. Why? Though spelled differently (Chan Marshall), Cat Power shares the same first and last name pronunciation as the Cubs' hurler. As you'll see below, that's about the only thing these two [shawn] Marshalls have in common: MORE »
How Well Do You Know Your Black?
By Jim Shearer on 10/02/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGE, LISTSBlack and music go together like ebony and ivory. No matter the time period or genre, there will always be songs, artists, and band-names shouting out what seems to be the choice color in music. Johnny Cash was the "Man In Black," AC/DC was "Back In Black," Metallica was known to "Fade to Black," and one of the most famous "black" groups of all-time, Black Sabbath, introduced heavy metal to the masses, whose followers wear nothing but black. Hip-Hop also has its share of "black." Mos Def dabbled in Black Star and Black Jack Johnson, and who can forget... MORE »
Happy Birthday Guy!
By Jim Shearer on 09/17/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGEI just want to send out a special Indie Ear birthday greeting to Guy Picciotto who turns 43 today. Besides being a member of two highly-respected D.C. bands (Rites of Spring, Fugazi), Picciotto has also produced albums for various indie artists including Blonde Redhead and The Gossip. If you get a chance today, throw on a Fugazi album and eat a piece of vegan birthday cake in honor Guy's special day. Here's a good Guy interview to chew on in the meantime.... MORE »
The Troof
By Jim Shearer on 09/04/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGEIf you don't know the troof, you'll find out in about two seconds after you watch this video: Hawnay Troof, "Connection" MORE »
Ra-Ra-Rage at the RNC
By Jim Shearer on 09/03/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGEGood to see Rage Against The Machine living up to their name at the Republican National Convention. Reminds me of the good old days. MORE »
Indie Ear Crossword Puzzle
By Jim Shearer on 08/27/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGECheck back tomorrow for all of the answers... MORE »
Surprising the Drummer
By Jim Shearer on 08/25/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGEI've been to a few surprise birthday parties in my time, but none have matched the unique premise of the one I attended this past weekend. The family and girlfriend of our band's (Deck-of-Jack) drummer, Kid Meevin, planned a surprise birthday party for him, where he would be brought into his own backyard, not knowing that he would step behind his drum kit to perform a full live set of music. Kudos to the masterminds behind it, who also did up a nice little V.I.P. tent for the band, ordered three table-long deli sandwiches, and printed hand towels--which were... MORE »
Sasquatch Dead, Beastie Boys Questioned
By Jim Shearer on 08/15/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGEFor anyone familiar with the Beastie Boys, you may know that between their Hello Nasty and To The Five Boroughs albums, there was a mysterious 6-year hiatus. We later found out in the video for "Triple Trouble" that the Beastie Boys were actually kidnapped and held hostage by Sasquatch. Though the Beastie Boys are purveyors of good will and amnesty, it's also a well known fact that they never forget when people (or creatures) have done them wrong (just ask Russell Simmons or Rick Rubin). Today the body of Bigfoot was discovered, and authorities have named the Beastie Boys... MORE »
Muse and The Streets Channel Their Rage
By Jim Shearer on 08/05/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGEIn a recent late-night jam session Muse channel their inner Rage Against the Machine and rock out with fellow Englishman, The Streets. "Who Knows Who?" Muse & The Streets Thanks to Kid Meevin for the heads-up. MORE »
Happy Birthday Adam Yauch!
By Jim Shearer on 08/05/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGEI always promised myself that one day, if I ever had a blog, I would make so many Beastie Boy postings that I'd either A.) Get fired, or B.) Get hired by the Beastie Boys. Neither has happened yet, so here's another Beastie Boys blog posting for you to chew on. This one (unlike many other posts I've made) actually has some merit. Today is Adam Yauch's birthday, so all together now kids: "Happy Birthday MCA!" (left: B-Boy Adam Yauch celebrates his B-Day today!) To give you a quick history lesson, MCA is the raspy-voiced Beastie Boy, who plays... MORE »
Who Has the Best Sneaker Commercial Song?
By Jim Shearer on 08/04/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGEI'm sure many of you have seen the joint collabo Julian Casablancas (The Strokes), Santogold, and Pharrell Williams (N.E.R.D., The Neptunes) recently did for Converse. Over the last few years it's been common practice in the indie world to lend out a song for a commercial. (left to right: Julian Casablancas, Santogold, Pharrell Williams) However, the trio mentioned above, not only lend out a song, but they created an original tune and also appear in the clip. Whether this hurts their indie cred is a conversation for another day. What I want to know is, now that the song... MORE »
Put Your Lollapalooza Knowledge to the Test
By Jim Shearer on 08/01/2008
This weekend (August 1-3) Lollapalooza hits Grant Park in Chicago, IL for its twelfth installment. Borrowing from the European festival mold, Perry Farrell gathered together acts from all different genres of music to join his band, Jane's Addiction, for their farewell tour in 1991, christening the festival: Lollapalooza. (left: Lollapalooza, from tour to hiatus to weekend festival.) Lollapalooza differed from other festivals, because its line-up would tour the country, rather than just put on one show in one city. The tour flourished until many copycat festivals flooded the market. Lollapalooza went on hiatus in 1998, and made somewhat of... MORE »
Two Drummers, a Dance Producer, a Hockey Player, Superman, and an Office Prick
By Jim Shearer on 07/31/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGECelebrating the last day of July in style by commemorating the following people's birthdays (July 31). Can you name them all? MORE »
It's Not You, It's Me...
By Jim Shearer on 07/28/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGETwo thumbs up for originality! Disgusting and brilliant at the same time... Gnarls Barkley, "Who's Gonna Save My Soul" MORE »
Public Enemy at Pitchfork this Friday
By Jim Shearer on 07/14/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGEThis Friday, July 18 at the Pitchfork Music Festival in Chicago (which I'll be covering for IFC.com), seminal political-hip-hop group Public Enemy will be performing It Takes a Nation of Millions to Hold Us Back in its entirety. This performance is in conjunction with All Tomorrow's Parties, the London-based promoters that came up with the genius idea a few years ago to have bands perform their landmark albums from start to finish. Since performances put on by All Tomorrow's Parties have been mostly an overseas treat, this will be my first chance to witness one live. And because It... MORE »
Better Spaghetti Western Theme Song?
By Jim Shearer on 07/13/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGEThe idea for this blog posting came to me after watching 3:10 to Yuma for the first time this weekend. What song do you think would make for a better theme in a spaghetti western movie: "The Age of the Understatement" or "Knights of Cydonia"? "The Age of the Understatement," The Last Shadow Puppets VS. "Knights of Cydonia," Muse MORE »
My Converse Inspired Collection
By Jim Shearer on 07/10/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGENot too long ago Converse unveiled their Kurt Cobain Inspired Collection--high-top and low-top Chuck Taylor sneakers with Cobain-like scrawl and scribble on the canvass of the shoe. (left: Just what Kurt Cobain would have wanted, a sneaker named after him.) Not long after, they released the Grateful Dead Inspired Collection (below), featuring variations of the Dead's skull and bear logos plastered on the side of a signature Chuck Taylor All-Star. If Converse can take the liberty to craft shoes inspired by two legendary bands, than why can't I design a sneaker to pay homage to my favorite IFC.com political... MORE »
Best Vowel-less Video of the Week
By Jim Shearer on 07/09/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGEIn keeping with the theme of my best vowel-less groups in music list, today I give you Albert Hammond, Jr.'s latest video from his just-released Como Te Llama? album, the vowel-less lead single, "GfC." MORE »
Lyrics Born Gettin' Down With His Inner Child
By Jim Shearer on 07/07/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGEIf the casual music listener is not familiar with Lyrics Born, you may recognize his rhymes on a recent Verizon commercial (music supplied courtesy of Galactic). Here's Lyrics Born's latest video, "I Like It, I Love It". First of all, any video with peanut butter and jelly sandwiches (with the crust cut off no less), Barrel of Monkeys, and Guess Who is right down my alley. I also appreciate that "I Like It, I Love It" doesn't have the trappings of your normal hip-hop video (do I even need to explain what they are?).... MORE »
Happy Fourth of July!
By Jim Shearer on 07/04/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGEHave a great Fourth of July! Hope you enjoy this Better Than Ezra video. I included it cause it gives a little shout-out to the holiday we're celebrating today: MORE »
What City Are You From Anyway?
By Jim Shearer on 07/03/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGE, LISTSBack in the day, a band usually only included the name of a city in its name if they had roots in that city. For example, the band Chicago formed in, Chicago, and though Tom Scholz was born in Toledo, his band Boston originated in, you guessed it, Boston. (left: "I'm From Barcelona...psych!") These days, bands don't need to have an allegiance to a particular city to name themselves after it. Do you know where the following indie bands really come from? 1. What Made Milwaukee Famous ____ 2. Of Montreal ____ 3. I'm From Barcelona ____ A. Jonkoping,... MORE »
Two-For-Two!
By Jim Shearer on 07/01/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGEYey! It's another Two-For-Tuesday! The flash 8 plugin was not detected. var so = new SWFObject("/static/bc/ifc_generic_blog.swf", "lunchboxbald", "380", "295", "8", "#ffffff"); so.addParam("wmode", "transparent"); //change player width so.addVariable("pwidth", 380); //change player height so.addVariable("pheight", 285); //distinguish between different videos so.addVariable("s_movieID", "lunchboxbald"); //insert brightcove title id here so.addVariable("bctid", 1640102989); so.write("lunchboxbald"); MORE »
OK Computer + In Rainbows = ?
By Jim Shearer on 07/01/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGEI never claimed to be quick on the internet-draw. I just recently found out about the possible connection between Radiohead's OK Computer and In Rainbows. Some have speculated that both albums are connected, with the number 10 being an essential code breaker. Since this story broke almost 10 months ago, I don't feel like an inadequate music blogger for finding out so late, instead, I feel like I'm part of Radiohead's master plan. Puddegum does a good job of breaking down the supposed link to both albums HERE. P.S. I sequenced the OK Computer and In Rainbows songs (as... MORE »
Not Your Average Conference Call
By Jim Shearer on 06/26/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGEHi, hello Miss Sweeney, could you please come into my office for a second? :) MORE »
Kanye Blogs With Fury
By Jim Shearer on 06/26/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGEAnd we thought Metallica was going to be the problem child at Bonnaroo. This whole story cracked me up. MORE »
My Beastie Diorama: Awesome? Or Creepy?
By Jim Shearer on 06/24/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGEOvercoming my Beastie obsession, one step at a time. (By the way, don't forget that MCA's new basketball doc, Gunnin' For That #1 Spot, is hitting theaters this Friday...) The flash 8 plugin was not detected. var so = new SWFObject("/static/bc/ifc_generic_blog.swf", "lunchboxmca", "380", "295", "8", "#ffffff"); so.addParam("wmode", "transparent"); //change player width so.addVariable("pwidth", 380); //change player height so.addVariable("pheight", 285); //distinguish between different videos so.addVariable("s_movieID", "lunchboxmca"); //insert brightcove title id here so.addVariable("bctid", 1626278372); so.write("lunchboxmca"); MORE »
MVP's of the Dance Floor
By Jim Shearer on 06/23/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGEThis weekend I DJ'd a wedding for two good friends (that's right, representin' both the bride and the groom), and after some deliberation, named Mike, Ian, and Alec (cousins of the bride) MVP's of the Dance Floor. John introduced the "balloon" dance, a move in which he inflated an imaginary balloon and passed it around the dance floor, Ian's power moves were insane, including a slide across the parquet that left a hole in his black dress slacks, and Alec acted as both hypeman and wingman for his brother Ian and cousin John. (above: John, Ian, and Alec, party... MORE »
The Ting Tings' Triangle Inspired by Stripes?
By Jim Shearer on 06/20/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGEThe Ting Tings recently released a brand new video for their song "Shut Up and Let Me Go," coming off their debut We Started Nothing, a catchy little album if you haven't had the chance to listen to it yet. The song may sound familiar because it was used for an iPod commerical not too long ago, and the video may look familiar because the one-two punch of Katie White and Jules De Martino borrow the "triangle" concept from another popular duo featuring a guitarist with the last name White. See for yourself:... MORE »
Where's Carl Newman?
By Jim Shearer on 06/18/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGEThe New Pornographers' Carl Newman appears for a millisecond in the brand new Mates of State video, "My Only Offer." See if you can find him: Mates of State, "My Only Offer" Please report back and let me know if you can track down Carl. Even though you wouldn't think it, Neko Case is worried out of her mind. MORE »
My Day With The Kooks
By Sarah Pesin on 06/17/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGEIt's always good fun when four incredibly skinny, pasty white, adorable British boys come across the pond to serenade you (well, technically not you, but 3000+ fans) with tunes from their incredibly successful sophomore album, Konk, along with all the hits off their debut album. What's even more fun is when you get to see The Kooks show off their vocal and musical capabilities a few hours before their second sold out Terminal 5 show on the rooftop of the EMI building. Yes, it was hot up there and they only played four songs but there was free lunner... MORE »
Father's Day Reminder!
By Jim Shearer on 06/12/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGEIf your father lives out of state, remember that today is the last day you can mail him a card/gift if you want it to get there before Father's Day. FedEx and Priority Mail will cost you a pretty dime if you want to go the get-it-there-in-one-day route. Just a friendly reminder! I'll give you three guesses to figure out what I'm going to do right now. (left: Liam Finn better thank my ass that I reminded him to send his dad, Neil Finn, a Father's Day card)... MORE »
Weezer's Red Album, I Don't Like It, I Love It!
By Jim Shearer on 06/12/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGEIf you haven't noticed, I usually try to steer clear of writing album reviews on the Indie Ear Blog. Music is a very personal thing, so who am I to say if an album sucks or not? I can't tell you how many times I've wanted to take a mic cord and wrap it around a critic's neck for giving a bad review to an album I love. However, today I felt compelled to write a review for Weezer's Red Album, which just came out last week. I absolutely love it! I can't stop listening to it--as soon as... MORE »
I'm Addicted
By Jim Shearer on 06/11/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGEI'm lovin' Weezer's Red album--lovin' it I say!! Tomorrow I will tell you all why (in great depth no less). I'd do it today, but I have band practice right now. Music first my friends, music first... MORE »
Bye Bye Virgin Megastore
By Jim Shearer on 06/10/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGENews broke in the blog world this week announcing that the Virgin Megastore in Times Square (New York City) will be closing sometime in early 2009. It's no secret that the CD industry is hurting (just ask the folks at Tower Music), but I'm bummed because the Virgin Megastore in Times Square was always a good place to kill time in the midtown area. Also, I couldn't resist their $10 sales--I bought a lot of CD's there, especially when I began replacing my old tape collection. If the Megastore can't hang, just imagine how indie record stores are doing... MORE »
School's Out For Summer!
By Jim Shearer on 06/09/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGEFifteen years ago today I celebrated my last day of high school. I never flunked a grade of school in my life, so if you ever want to figure out how old I am, just do the math. I don't want to downplay any high school kid's senior prank that he or she may be planning today, but hands down, the following video features the best mosh pit in a high school lobby EVER! I stand behind this claim, because I'm sure if anything like this ever broke out again, a S.W.A.T. team would descend upon a high school faster... MORE »
JMJ's NIN Makeover
By Jim Shearer on 06/06/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGEYesterday, Trent Reznor announced NIN's brand new touring band, which includes Beck's former bassist, Justin Meldal-Johnsen (aka JMJ). We speculated what his on-stage attire might look like, considering JMJ is known for his bright threads and his new band is known for their strict gray-and-black dress code. RealLowVibe, answered all of our questions, when they sent us the follwing picture. Our assumption was correct--pink sweater vest out, NIN-black in. MORE »
Bo Diddley, 1928-2008
By Jim Shearer on 06/04/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGE, NEWSSinger, songwriter, and guitarist, Bo Diddley, aka "The Originator," died on June 2 of heart failure, he was 79. Diddley helped introduce driving rhythms and aggressive guitar sounds into the world of blues, which found itself quickly transitioning into the powerful beast known as rock and roll. As a youngster, the following commercial (see below) was one of my first introductions to Bo Diddley. Since superstar athlete, Bo Jackson, knew practically everything, I figured Bo Diddley most be someone important if Bo Jackson couldn't master his respective craft:... MORE »
Here Cometh Deerhoof
By Jim Shearer on 06/03/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGE, NEWSExperimental-melody-makers, Deerhoof, have just finished a new album, Offend Maggie,which will be released later this year on October 7. One track from the album will soon be available from an interactive website as a downloadable written score. Fans can then record the song and share their mp3s with others on the website. It is not yet known which song the band will choose. In the meantime, Deerhoof will join the Roots this weekend by performing at The Roots Picnic in Philadelphia along with Gnarls Barkley and others, before heading off to tour Japan.... MORE »
Stanley Cup Madness Takes Over My Life
By Jim Shearer on 06/03/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGEWe're heading towards 3PM and I still haven't posted a blog today. I can explain. I went on a road trip to Detroit, Michigan to catch Game 5 of the Penguins/Red Wings Stanley Cup Finals match-up. For as many people in indie music who cringe at the word "sports," there are just as many who hold the world of sports close to their hearts. Through my travels, I have met many musicians who are surprisingly into baseball, football, soccer, and yes, even professional wrestling (ahem, Hot Chip). Because I know these artists have my back, I don't feel as... MORE »
MGMT vs. The Wild
By Jim Shearer on 06/02/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGEIndiana Jones isn't the only one who can manhandle the wilderness. MGMT handle their own in their just released music video for "Electric Feel." MORE »
James Pants: Dim Sum & Freeze Guns
By Jim Shearer on 05/28/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGEGive this one a few whirls, it may take a spin or two before it sinks in. James Pants is currently on tour with Jamie Lidell, and if you're familiar with the two, you should agree that it makes perfectly good sense (in a bizarre, out-of-this-world kind of way). James Pants, "Cosmic Rapp" MORE »
Pork and Beans, Web-rrific!
By Jim Shearer on 05/26/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGEBest video I've seen in a while! Weezer, "Pork and Beans" MORE »
Mr. T's Birthday Calls for a Mr. T Song
By Jim Shearer on 05/21/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGEToday, May 21, is Mr. T's birthday. This may mean nothing to you now, but in the 80's I'm sure your mom would have cooked something special for dinner tonight to commemorate the occasion. Mr. T played the tough guy Vietmnam vet in the action series the A-Team, and also was the villain in Rocky III, with killer quotes like, "Pain!" and "Dead meat!" I don't believe Mr. T was signed to a major recording label, so this following tune could go down as the most absurd indie song in the history of the world. I'm sure you've seen... MORE »
Today's Great Mystery of Releasing Albums
By Jim Shearer on 05/20/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGE, SOONSo Beck has a new album called Modern Guilt coming out--well--that's the thing, nobody knows when it's coming out. I shouldn't say "nobody," cause I'm sure somebody knows. The album was produced by indie-minded-go-to-man, Danger Mouse (Brian Burton). Who knew his little mash-up of Jay-Z's Black Album and the Beatles White Album a few years ago, would lead him to sought-after-producer glory? He's worked magic with Gorillaz and his own joint project, Gnarls Barkley, as well as re-punching his indie-cred card by recently working with the Black Keys. (left: Beck's album's finished and now we play the waiting game,... MORE »
Polite Dance Song?!
By Jim Shearer on 05/16/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGEI guess I've been overcome by musical duos this year, getting all giddy for releases from The Kills and The Black Keys, not to mention Mates of State's new album coming out this Tuesday. You can add another group to the list--The Bird and The Bee. The first couple times I saw their video for "Polite Dance Song," I didn't really think much of it--a video taped performance of old people dancing, big deal. But now, I'm tellin' you, I can't stop watching it! I'm mesmerized by both the song and video:... MORE »
Summer Festival Quiz
By Jim Shearer on 05/13/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGESummer Festival Season is upon us my friends! From April to September, our beautiful, music-loving country will host various festivals featuring all different types of music and attractions. With fewer and fewer packaged summer tours left, the weekend (all-in-one-place) festival is all the rage these days. (left: Things to do this summer: Toss around Wayne Coyne in a huge see-through ball) From Coachella to Lollapalooza, Bonnaroo to Sasquatch, Treasure Island to Austin City Limits, there's a good chance you'll be hitting up a festival sometime this summer. To get you prepared, I've decided to throw a small pop quiz.... MORE »
When Animals Attack
By Jim Shearer on 05/12/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGEA couple months ago, upbeat, fast-on-the-strum, indie trio, Born Ruffians, released their debut album Red, Yellow, and Blue. The threesome from Toronto recently made a video for their song "I Need a Life." In the clip, Born Ruffians prepare dinner while various barnyard animals peek inside the kitchen. At the end of the clip, we find the band mauled to death, never getting to enjoy the meal they worked so hard on. Ouch. (left: Not even a group called Born Ruffians can out-rough a group of wild animals). It wasn't too long ago where we saw a pimped-out chicken... MORE »
Weezer's "The Greatest Man That Ever Lived"
By Jim Shearer on 05/09/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGEI gotta say, I'm loving the recently leaked Weezer song, "The Greatest Man That Ever Lived." It's got ups, it's got downs, it's a musical journey (and the cheering crowd at the beginning even makes it a little epic--dare I say it's Weezer's "Bohemian Rhapsody"). I'm excited for the new album, coming out (legally) on June 24. Thanks for the heads-up Smooth. You're lucky I don't sic the feds on you! (left: This is my friend Jeff, who happens to be such a big Weezer fan that he got their flying =w= logo tattooed on his chest. When he... MORE »
Talkin' with Tim Fite
By Jonathan Santini on 05/06/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGEIn celebration of Tim Fite's new album, Fair Ain't Fair, which was just released today, here's an interview I had with Tim Fite and Dr. Leisure at this year's SXSW: The flash 8 plugin was not detected. var so = new SWFObject("/static/bc/ifc_generic_blog.swf", "cinemaeye", "380", "295", "8", "#ffffff"); so.addParam("wmode", "transparent"); //change player width so.addVariable("pwidth", 380); //change player height so.addVariable("pheight", 285); //distinguish between different videos so.addVariable("s_movieID", "cinemaeye"); //insert brightcove title id here so.addVariable("bctid", 1507768528); so.write("cinemaeye"); MORE »
Happy Cinco De Mayo!
By Jim Shearer on 05/05/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGEHappy Cinco De Mayo! For those that don't know, Cinco De Mayo is a holiday that commemorates the initial victory of Mexican forces over the French in the Battle Of Puebla. Cinco De Mayo, the fifth of May, is also responsible for bringing us the following people: Kurt Loder (1945) The man, the myth, the legend. Music host and writer extraordinaire. When I used to work at MTV I would always quiver like a teenage-Justin Timberlake fan when I was in his presence. His brilliant dry wit is unmatched in music journalism. Bob Seger (1945) "Today's music ain't got the... MORE »
Jamie Lidell Givin' Out Free Body Parts
By Jim Shearer on 05/02/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGEWelcome to the world of Jamie Lidell, who just released his brand new album, Jim, this week. The following video makes perfect sense to me, considering the first time I met Jamie he had just garbage-picked a purple-dinosaur toy piano and began singing me a song (he's a truly one-of-a-kind gent): MORE »
International Superheroes of Hardcore, Save Us!
By Jim Shearer on 05/01/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGEThis past Tuesday was actually one of my favorite album release days in a while. Besides getting new offerings from the Roots and Madonna, silly-power-poppers Nerf Herder made their triumphant return, and speaking of comebacks, Portishead released their first album in 11 years. I'm also lovin' Santogold, but the album that I just can't stop listening to is International Superheroes of Hardcore's Takin' It Ova!. (left: Rest assured, these are no Superhero Sellouts.) For those that don't know, this is the alter-ego band of New Found Glory--a group that was sadly lumped into the power-pop-nice-haircut bands of the early... MORE »
I Was Spoken To By An Advertisement...
By Jim Shearer on 05/01/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGEYesterday I was reading my new issue of Sports Illustrated on the subway (one of my favorite New York City time-killing pastimes), and came across an ad for Zune, Microsoft's answer to iTunes. (right: Some marketing guru is wetting his pants now, cause I'm lovin' artists on both pages of this ad.) The two-page spread features various three dimensional band names (in all different types of fonts) stacked on top of each other. The ad is nothing groundbreaking, considering iTunes had a similar campaign a year or so ago with hundreds of album covers exploding from an iPod.... MORE »
Get Your CSS On!
By Jim Shearer on 04/30/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGE, SOONNot the popular author, C.S. Lewis, and not CSI Miami, Las Vegas, or New York. I'm talking about São Paulo, Brizil's own CSS, a band whose name is an acronym for, "cansei de ser sexy," which translates into "tired of being sexy"--I hear ya sister. (left: "Whoever is not tired of being sexy raise your hand.") I was excited to find out recently that CSS will be releasing their sophomore effort, Donkey, on July 22. I got into the band (not literally of course) a couple years ago and they quickly reminded me of many great female-fronted acts like... MORE »
What Made Milwaukee Famous Covering Billy Joel
By Jim Shearer on 04/28/2008
Filed under: FREE SONGS, HODGEPODGE, SOONWhat Made Milwaukee Famous, an Austin, TX-based band that I'm likin' of late, have announced a string of tour dates with The Whigs. They have also recorded a live version of Billy Joel's "You May Be Right" which you can download right here: you may be right.mp3 If for some reason you can only hear it, and not download it, let me know and I'll try to figure something out. MORE »
Listen to Portishead's New Album
By Jim Shearer on 04/24/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGE, SOONActing late on a tip, I just discovered that Portishead's brand new, long-long-long overdue album, Third, is being streamed on Last FM. The album officially comes out next week, April 29. Yo Rex, I'm still reading your blog. Thanks for the heads up! (Don't know if it's proper blog-etiquette to post a blog about info I found on a blog, but keep in mind I was still using messenger pigeons up until 2001.) Portishead's last studio album (self-titled) was released in September of 1997. My messenger pigeon actually flew to Sam Goody and bought it for me. It was... MORE »
Put Your Papal and Music Knowledge to the Test
By Jim Shearer on 04/17/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGEIn honor of Pope Benedict XVI's first visit to the United States of America (since becoming Pope), I've decided to celebrate by challenging both your papal and music knowledge. I'm guessing U2's Bono is going to ace this quiz (since he and the late great Pope John Paul II broke bread on many occasions). How will you do? Good luck! Ed. Note: I just realized this is my second quiz of the week--wow--maybe I secretly want to become a game show host? (above: Pope Benedict XVI makes his first papal visit to the U.S. this week.)... MORE »
Tax Time!
By Jim Shearer on 04/15/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGEHey, if it makes you feel any better, even The Beatles had to pay up: MORE »
The Indie Rock Beard Quiz
By Jim Shearer on 04/14/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGEThis is the time of the year when hockey players--some superstitious, some just standing in solidarity with their teammates--grow "playoff" beards. Because there is no off-season in indie rock, you'll see some musicians sporting their "playoff" beards yearlong. (left: Man Man, with so many good beards to chose from, how do you just pick one?) In popular music, the beard has gone in and out of style many different times throughout the years. In the 70's, just about everyone band had a beard. When the 80's arrived, the beard went out of style, giving way to big hairdos and... MORE »
Free Sampling of Pixies Tour Documentary
By Jim Shearer on 04/10/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGEI'm a sucker for free things, so when I saw that Pitchfork.tv was offering a free online viewing of the Pixies' loudQUIETloud (the documentary of their 2004 reunion tour), I had to grab some popcorn and plop myself down in front of my computer. The film is listed under the category "ONE WEEK ONLY", so common sense is telling me it's not going to be up for much longer. MORE »
Slug and Ant's New TV Show
By Jim Shearer on 04/10/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGE, NEWS, SOONOne of underground hip-hop's most beloved groups is two weeks away from dropping their brand new album (whose title cracks me up every time I say it). Atmosphere will be releasing, When Life Gives You Lemons, You Paint That Shit Gold, on Tuesday, April 22. (left to right: Ant and Slug, turnin' lemons into gold.) In a move that was designed to either answer all Atmosphere-related questions before the usual album press-cycle, or just to kill time during a frigid Minnesota winter, Slug and Ant have created a web show, Paint it Gold, which tapes in Slug's basement and... MORE »
Hot Chip's New Video, "One Pure Thought"
By Jim Shearer on 04/10/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGE, NEWS, SOON(left: Hot Chip, catch 'em now while they're playing some U.S. East Coast dates) Here's Hot Chip's brand new video, "One Pure Thought", off their album Made in the Dark. Watch it HERE. They're playing live at the Starlight Ballroom in Philadelphia tonight: MORE »
Todd Moakes: Music's Harshest Critic
By Jim Shearer on 04/09/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGEI don't know if any of you are familiar with the work of Todd Moakes? Besides being credited for starting the hipster movement in Williamsburg (Brooklyn), he is also known in many circles as the godfather of the "indie music blog," responsible for breaking bands like The Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Tapes 'N Tapes, Vampire Weekend, Clap Your Hands Say Yeah, and !!!. (left: Todd Moakes, the most feared blogger in all of indie music.) Moakes has also been credited for popularizing the harsh and overly critical style of blog-writing that has become commonplace on the internet. Like a stingy... MORE »
Indie Ear Celebrates 100th Blog Posting!!
By Jim Shearer on 04/04/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGE, NEWSIn February of 2008, IFC re-launched their website which included a brand new music blog, The Independent Ear. A struggling out-of-work VJ (i.e., me) was scooped up off the streets to contribute to this online blog-nificent publication. Right now, you are reading the Indie Ear's 100th blog posting (cue the balloons and confetti falling from the ceiling)! (left: I plowed through our yearly budget by purchasing these balloons, but it was well worth it! Ain't no party like a 100th Blog Posting Party!)... MORE »
Taking it Back to the 90's with Starter Jackets
By Jim Shearer on 04/03/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGEThis past Tuesday R.E.M. and Moby released brand new albums, and both were praised for taking it back to their aggressive styles that made them famous in the 90's. Since "taking it back to the 90's" seems to be on the brain this week, I thought you might enjoy this particular video--and besides, what good is having a blog if you can't promote your own band every once in a while? MORE »
Ben Gibbard Gets His Jazzercise On
By Jim Shearer on 04/02/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGEBen Gibbard, the bespectacled frontman of Death Cab For Cutie unveiled his latest side-project yesterday. No, it's not a new Postal Service album, it's actually, ahem, a musical endeavor called Just Jazzin'. A one-song sampling of Gibbard's new free-from jazz material is available on his myspace page, where he is rockin' out on a xylophone. According to Gibbard, "....there's this side of me and my music that desires a lack of structure and Just Jazzin' does that for me because I am allowed to just play whatever note comes into my head." (left: Gibbard is a free-form, no structure,... MORE »
Moby: New Album, Free Music for Filmmakers, & One Pissed-Off Chicken
By Jim Shearer on 03/26/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGE, NEWS, SOONMoby, makes his triumphant return this Tuesday, April 1, as he releases his brand new dance-inspired, Last Night, a loosely based concept album following around the lovable bald-headed socialite as he bounces from club to club on a NYC night. Dance fans will be happy to know that Moby, who has been known to shelve his groovin' beats for more experimental fodder, returns to the dance floor on Last Night, especially on its lead single, "Disco Lies." Speaking of which, if you ever wanted to see a pimped-out chicken get medieval on Colonel Sanders' ass, this Even Bernard directed... MORE »
National Sweater Day Tomorrow
By Jim Shearer on 03/19/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGE, NEWSTomorrow would have been Mr. Rogers' 80th birthday. To honor the late, great children's television pioneer, Family Communications, Inc.--the company Roger's created to produce his show Mr. Roger's Neighborhood--is asking everyone wear a sweater tomorrow, Thursday, March 20. I'm letting you know a day before, so you can plan accordingly. As part of my personal festivities I will also awake to playing of Weezer's "Undone - The Sweater Song." I will then put on a sweater and a cool pair of sneakers and treat everyone like my neighbor!... MORE »
With a Little Help From My Friends
By Jim Shearer on 03/06/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGEI've been meaning to post this blog for a while now. Here's the deal--as soon as my circle of friends discovered that I was writing a music blog for IFC, my e-mail inbox filled up with several band and album recommendations. I'd be a real jerk if I didn't share these with you. In the same vain as "Employee Picks" at record stores, here's what my friends suggest that you listen to: (left: that's me being body surfed into the ceiling at a recent karaoke party)... MORE »
New Indie-Metal Supergroup, Kingdom of Sorrow
By Jim Shearer on 03/05/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGE, NEWSWhen you become a VJ (video jockey), you enter an underground society with many unwritten rules and privileges. Besides secret handshakes, monthly dues, and a rigorous hazing process, we also have monthly bake sales and a bi-annual pizza party. Former colleague and host of Headbanger's Ball, Jamey Jasta has just joined forces with Kirk Windstein (Down, Crowbar), Steve Gibb (Crowbar), Derek Kerswill (Seemless, Unearth) and Matthew Brunson, to form the indie-metal super group, Kingdom of Sorrow. (left to right: Jamey Jasta, Kirk Windstein) I'm not just giving Jamey a plug, cause he's a good guy (and--oh yeah--a member of... MORE »
Can You Guess Which Famous Athlete Plays the Bad Guy in this Video?
By Jim Shearer on 02/28/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGEIn the new music video "Sultan", from the band What Made Milwaukee Famous (Barsuk Records), can you guess which of the following athletes will make an appearance? + Tiger Woods + Brett Favre + Lance Armstrong + Yao Ming If you guess correctly--well--I can't give you anything (it's just not in the budget), but if you do get it right, give yourself a well-deserved pat on the back! To watch the video, click HERE. P.S. If this doesn't get you psyched for the fencing events in the upcoming Summer Olympics, nothing will!... MORE »
Jim Noir, Don't Know Him? I Bet You Do.
By Jim Shearer on 02/28/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGENot enough people give themselves credit for knowing more than they think they know about indie music. Chances are the average layperson could probably identify a good 20-30 songs just from watching television over the last few years. You may be a Band of Horses and Kings of Leon fan and not even know it. MORE »
Kavinsky!
By Jim Shearer on 02/25/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGEIf you like: + 1980's synth-driven movie scores + Comic book art + Electronic music MORE »
Bored? Have Your Cat Sing Amy Winehouse Songs.
By Jim Shearer on 02/22/2008
Filed under: HODGEPODGEIf you're snowed in today and looking for something to do, you can always have your cat do an Amy Winehouse parody: MORE »
