Local Top Ten for week of 5-6-08
Category: Music

Local Top Ten List

1. Vampire Hands – Me & You Cherry Red

With a sound that cannot be easily pinned down, Vampire Hands straddle genres with their mind-bending version of musical bliss. Vocalist/maraca-extraordinaire Colin Johnson (Thunder in the Valley, the Chambermaids) is joined by vocalist/bassist Chris Bierden, as well as brothers Chris (guitar) and Alex Rose (drums). Vampire Hands emerged on the Minneapolis music scene in 2006. Later that year they were chosen (cursed?) for City Pages annual Picked2Click issue. The band spent the winter of 2008 hold up in their practice space, preparing themselves for the whirlwind that is their second album, Me & You Cherry Red, 25-minutes of jam-packed atmospheric rock'n'roll. The disc focuses on percussion and imagery. Chris Polley of Radio K explains, "Picture the elongated yellow-nailed, powder white digits of an undead hand wrapping slowly around an imminent victim's smooth and ripe throat - this is the eerily hypnotic and frighteningly captivating world of Vampire Hands." Steve McPherson of Reveille Magazine says, "Me & You Cherry Red is a dusty little gem of a record with a fine balance of electronic and organic elements, of sprawling fuzziness and concise melodies, of expansive experimentation and straightforward songwriting." Pick one up and prove the curse is broken!

2. Polara – Beekeeping

Quintessential local rockers, Polara, are back with their first full-length album in six years! Their fifth album to date, Beekeeping, is 11 tracks of jam-packed psychedelic rock. Released on Susstones Records, member Ed Ackerson's own label, the new disc has been hailed as some of Polara's best work. From the label's website: "Beekeeping is teeming with the trademark Polara sound – adventurous, exciting "pysch" excursions featuring always amazing instrumental and vocal contributions, all contained within a concise 3-4 minute pop song framework." In his own words, Ackerson describes the band's intention for the album. "We're still here, and we're still happy. That's the motivation, that's why we have to put these milestones out once in a while. It's like a postcard from our universe to the universe at large." With a notably more mature sound, while still maintaining the unhinged vibrancy of youth, Polara's Beekeeping belongs in your local music collection.

3. Charlie Parr – 1922 Limited Edition

Folk troubadour, Charlie Parr mixes country with blues, with folk, and with soul. Recorded with an old school sound, Parr evokes serious emotion with a simple strum of his guitar. He currently lives in Duluth with his wife and his two young children. His first album, 1922, illustrates Parr's progression as an artist. While the original pressing is over and gone, Charlie's back with a limited edition version to cure your cravings. A must have for fans of Parr, or the genre in general.

4. Romantica – America

Romantica is a local band whose genre is best described as Americana, although it encompasses a much broader range of pop, folk, alt.country, and R&B. Lyrically, they're in a poetic category all their own. From the band's website: "Romantica manage to deliver an understated heart-to-heart in an envelope of melodic charm and sarcastic wit: too smart to be sentimental, too sweet to be taken too seriously." Frontman Ben Kyle was born and raised in Belfast, Ireland – a biographical anecdote that holds weight in Romantica's lyrical themes and musical sounds. Kyle met bassist and "multi-instrumentalist" Luke Jacobs in college, and later added percussionist Mark Hedlund to form what Minneapolis music fans now know as Romantica. In 2004, they released their debut album, It's Your Weakness That I Want, an aptly titled array of instrumentally inventive love songs. 2007's America is the band's second studio endeavor, released on 2024 Records. City Pages' Sarah Askari delivers a succinct description of the new album, "America [is] an album of lush, richly orchestrated pop-folk made rural by twangy pedal steel and keening fiddle parts (courtesy of occasional Golden Smog collaborator Jessy Greene)." For fans of Sufjan Stevens, Johnny Cash, Wilco, and the Replacements.

5. Spaghetti Western String Co. – Lull & Clatter

The Spaghetti Western String Company is an acoustic quartet from Minneapolis whose haunting melodies and acoustic instrumentation have made them a staple on "Best of the Twin Cities" lists since they formed in 2003. Members Michael Rossetto (banjo, guitar), Paul Fonfara (clarinet), Nick Lemme (mandolin, vocals), and Ethan Sutton (cello) are back with a new full-length album after spending some time scoring silent films and dance performances. Lull & Clatter is the band's third release, and features appearances by J.T. Bates (Fat Kid Wednesdays), Channy Moon (Roma di Luna), and a full choir! Their sound is a mixture of classical, jazz, European folk, and new acoustic sounds. City Pages' Steve McPherson explains, "Lull & Clatter is about as far from a freewheeling jam record as you can imagine, stuffed to the brim with elegantly structured tunes that aren't nearly as creaky and traditionalist as the instrumental lineup might imply—and it's anything but lo-fi." Spaghetti Western is known not only for their beautiful music, but also for their dedication to music education. They are currently working with Minnesota schools to educate on the importance of music in schools, and to further their music education programs. Winners of the Minnesota Music Awards "Best Eclectic Artist of the Year" in 2005 and 2006, the Spaghetti Western String Company is definitely a treat to savor!

6. Willie Murphy – Devil in the White House

Willie Murphy is a legendary fixture in the Minneapolis music scene. From his Myspace page, "Willie Murphy, guitar/piano blues man, is one of three charter members of the Minnesota Music Hall of Fame along with Bob Dylan and Prince." Murphy began playing the piano at age four and started writing songs in High School. After graduation, he teamed up with "Spider" John Koerner, with whom he recorded a critically acclaimed album for Elektra Records and toured internationally before the two split to embark on their own creative endeavors. Since then, Murphy founded celebrated 70's funk group Willie & The Bees, as well as his own record label (Atomic Theory). He has recorded numerous solo albums, including his latest, Devil in the White House, at his own Cockroach Park Studios. As the title suggests, listeners are in for a topical dose of Murphy's candid brand of blues. Pick one up, just in time to a elect a new devil in the white house!

7. Crescent Moon w/Big Trouble – Crescent Moon is in Big Trouble

Heiruspecs' Sean McPherson had a plan. With his brother, Steve, the two set out to form a band that revisits the sprawling instrumental covers of yesteryear. The result, Big Trouble, covers classics and modern day favorites and promises to "blow your mind softly." Big Trouble has toured the Twin Cities, bringing grooves to the stage in their own right, as well as backing for artists like Joanna James, P.O.S., and Crescent Moon (Odd Jobs, Kill the Vultures, Roma di Luna). Their collaboration with the latter went so well, they decided to record an album together: Crescent Moon is in Big Trouble. Chris Riemenschneider of the Star Tribune says, "the six-track disc finds Crescent spewing out dark and weary-sounding tunes over gritty, smoky, bluesy and raw rock 'n' roll." So go out and get in big trouble!

8. Kanser – Future Retro Legacy

To get listeners ready for the future full-length album (of the same title: Future Retro Legacy), Kanser has released a collection of old and new songs mixed by DJ Last Word. Kanser's ringleader, Zach Combs, is no stranger to the Minneapolis hip-hop scene. Along with bandmates Unicus, New MC, and DJ Elusive, Kanser has 6 independent albums to date. After a solo release under the moniker, "White Jesus," Zach is back with his boys and ready for a few more Kanser records. Future Retro Legacy was produced by Jesse Semenko (Unknown Prophets) and is a perfect mix of funk/R&B and hip-hop. Future Retro Legacy is a fun summertime jam and ready to be performed at your next house party, for fans of Big Quarters and The Unknown Prophets.

9. Vicious Vicious – Parade

Minneapolis music veteran Erik Appelwick has had his hand in just about every local indie project to garner national attention since 2000. Appelwick is a co-founder of the Hopefuls, as well as bass guitarist for local darlings Tapes N' Tapes. He has also produced such local hits as White Light Riot's debut EP, Dark is Light Enough. In 2001, however, Appelwick emerged with a solo project under the alias Vicious Vicious. Since then, Vicious Vicious has released two very well received albums: Blood & Clover and Don't Look So Surprised. Appelwick began writing songs for the latest Vicious Vicious album, Parade, in 2004, but had to put the project on hold when he joined the boys of Tapes N' Tapes on an international tour. Having produced their smash hit, The Loon, he was a shoe-in when their bassist left the band. While Parade has been three years in the making, it is well worth the wait. Megan Wiley of Mpls St. Paul Magazine describes the feel of the album. "Appelwick channels the Beatles in both his CD's cover art—oh-so reminiscent of Yellow Submarine—and his compositions. He mixes that psychedelic sensibility with some playful Beck-like voice changes, heavy piano and synth, some Abba-flavored drumbeats, and Motown bass lines."

10. Muja Messiah – MPLS Massacre

Local hip-hopper, Muja Messiah, wants YOU on his growing list of Myspace friends. A connoisseur of knowledge and a Brooklyn Park Native, he began his career in a local rap group called Five Percent Nation, developing his penchant for teamwork that has carried him through to his most recent endeavor, hip-hop quintet Raw Villa. Born Robert Hedges, Muja Messiah has been known to play with names. His long-running stage name is based on the Arabic word for "soldier," (Mujahideen) and the not-so-subtle image of a Messiah; fighting for deliverance. In December of 2007, Muja was voted one of VIBE magazine's "51 Best Myspace Rappers," a prestigious honor in today's fast-paced, online-community driven culture. On his latest release (with Raw Villa), MPLS Massacre, Muja compiles 27 tracks of pure mix-tape goodness. The disc is, essentially, a catch-all for the B material, not suitable by Muja himself for his highly anticipated "official" album out this summer. But don't be fooled, MPLS Massacre harbors numerous A tracks, including a remake of M.I.A.'s "Paper Planes," a collaboration with fellow local rapper, M.anifest. Minneapolis Star Tribune's Chris Riemenschneider sums up the vibe of MPLS Massacre quite nicely, "[the album] features a mix of thug-leaning tracks, a few party anthems and one political thinker." Muja seeks to acquire one million Myspace friends in time for the release of the aforementioned album, Thee Adventures of a B-Boy D-Boy. Kill multiple birds with one stone: support local hip-hop, check out the buzz, and help a starry-eyed dreamweaver reach his goals of numerical stardom.

11:21 AM - 0 Comments - 0 Kudos - Add Comment

Local Top Ten List for week of 4-29-08
Category: Music

Local Top Ten List

1. Peter Lang – Testament

Grammy nominated Peter Lang is "one of the world's preeminent 6- and 12-string figerstyle solo instrumentalists," according to Guitar Player magazine. With a long, rich history in the Minnesota music scene, Lang is back with his twelfth album to date, Testament. In his own words, "The album features many of the songs I worked out while learning to play the guitar. Most of them represent the DNA of the American musical experience and are the starting points for much of the blues, jazz, and pop that followed. It was fantastic to get inside these pieces, pump them up, and give them as much life as possible." Lang's vocals and legendary guitar work are joined on the album by drummer Dave King (the Bad Plus, Happy Apple), bassist Steve Larkin, and producer/harmonica player Michael Tanner. A must have for blues fans and guitar aficionados.

2. Spaghetti Western String Co. – Lull & Clatter

The Spaghetti Western String Company is an acoustic quartet from Minneapolis whose haunting melodies and acoustic instrumentation have made them a staple on "Best of the Twin Cities" lists since they formed in 2003. Members Michael Rossetto (banjo, guitar), Paul Fonfara (clarinet), Nick Lemme (mandolin, vocals), and Ethan Sutton (cello) are back with a new full-length album after spending some time scoring silent films and dance performances. Lull & Clatter is the band's third release, and features appearances by J.T. Bates (Fat Kid Wednesdays), Channy Moon (Roma di Luna), and a full choir! Their sound is a mixture of classical, jazz, European folk, and new acoustic sounds. City Pages' Steve McPherson explains, "Lull & Clatter is about as far from a freewheeling jam record as you can imagine, stuffed to the brim with elegantly structured tunes that aren't nearly as creaky and traditionalist as the instrumental lineup might imply—and it's anything but lo-fi." Spaghetti Western is known not only for their beautiful music, but also for their dedication to music education. They are currently working with Minnesota schools to educate on the importance of music in schools, and to further their music education programs. Winners of the Minnesota Music Awards "Best Eclectic Artist of the Year" in 2005 and 2006, the Spaghetti Western String Company is definitely a treat to savor!

3. Vampire Hands – Me & You Cherry Red

With a sound that cannot be easily pinned down, Vampire Hands straddle genres with their mind-bending version of musical bliss. Vocalist/maraca-extraordinaire Colin Johnson (Thunder in the Valley, the Chambermaids) is joined by vocalist/bassist Chris Bierden, as well as brothers Chris (guitar) and Alex Rose (drums). Vampire Hands emerged on the Minneapolis music scene in 2006. Later that year they were chosen (cursed?) for City Pages annual Picked2Click issue. The band spent the winter of 2008 hold up in their practice space, preparing themselves for the whirlwind that is their second album, Me & You Cherry Red, 25-minutes of jam-packed atmospheric rock'n'roll. The disc focuses on percussion and imagery. Chris Polley of Radio K explains, "Picture the elongated yellow-nailed, powder white digits of an undead hand wrapping slowly around an imminent victim's smooth and ripe throat - this is the eerily hypnotic and frighteningly captivating world of Vampire Hands." Steve McPherson of Reveille Magazine says, "Me & You Cherry Red is a dusty little gem of a record with a fine balance of electronic and organic elements, of sprawling fuzziness and concise melodies, of expansive experimentation and straightforward songwriting." Pick one up and prove the curse is broken!

4. Willie Murphy – Devil in the White House

Willie Murphy is a legendary fixture in the Minneapolis music scene. From his Myspace page, "Willie Murphy, guitar/piano blues man, is one of three charter members of the Minnesota Music Hall of Fame along with Bob Dylan and Prince." Murphy began playing the piano at age four and started writing songs in High School. After graduation, he teamed up with "Spider" John Koerner, with whom he recorded a critically acclaimed album for Elektra Records and toured internationally before the two split to embark on their own creative endeavors. Since then, Murphy founded celebrated 70's funk group Willie & The Bees, as well as his own record label (Atomic Theory). He has recorded numerous solo albums, including his latest, Devil in the White House, at his own Cockroach Park Studios. As the title suggests, listeners are in for a topical dose of Murphy's candid brand of blues. Pick one up, just in time to a elect a new devil in the white house!

5. Doomtree – False Hopes

Doomtree is a sensational local hip-hop collective, oozing with talent and love. It's members share an unwavering penchant for teamwork, support, and artistic expression. Their latest, False Hopes, is not to be confused the respective False Hopes EP's from members Dessa and Cecil Otter. This False Hopes is a collaboration among all members, and contains the rarities and b-sides that didn't make the cut on their much anticipated upcoming album. From the group's website: "So, friend, consider this sack-full of songs not as a true album, but rather a collection of "specials" that didn't quite fit in with the family. They are all beautiful in their own right, but a few unfortunate idiosyncrasies […] have prevented them from meeting the Doomtree Family Gold Standard and making the proverbial A-team." Each member of Doomtree is multi-talented and brings something special to the table. They are: Cecil Otter (emcee/producer), Dessa (emcee/vocalist), Mike Mictlan (emcee), Sims (emcee), P.O.S. (emcee/producer), Paper Tiger (producer/DJ/graphic designer), Marshall Larada (producer/DJ/visual artist), Lazerbeak (producer/musician), Turbo Nemesis (DJ/Engineer), Emily Bloodmobile (producer), and Tom Servo (producer/DJ). Their combined force is undeniable. Pick up Doomtree's False Hopes and rejoice in love and hip-hop.

6. Heiruspecs – 10 Years Strong

Heiruspecs' Sean McPherson describes the band's latest, limited edition album in his own words. "The definitive Heiruspecs experience, Ten Years Strong captures Heiruspecs from their roots at St. Paul Central High School on up to their position as the finest purveyors of live hip-hop in the Midwest. This full-length record features exclusively unreleased or out of print performances, including songs from Heiruspecs's two out of print records, Live from the Studio and Antidisestablishmetabolism. Ten Years Strong also features five new songs that have never been released before. Ten Years Strong captures Heiruspecs at the proudest moments of their first ten years of history. Buy yours today, there are only a thousand copies of Ten Years Strong."

7. Charlie Parr – Rooster

Folk troubadour, Charlie Parr mixes country with blues, with folk, and with soul. Recorded with an old school sound, Parr evokes serious emotion with a simple strum of his guitar. He currently lives in Duluth with his wife and his two young children. In 2005, Parr released Rooster, his fourth independent release. It was recorded in a Duluth warehouse space and contains ten original tracks, plus two traditional folk songs. On his website, Parr describes his vision for the album. "Lyrically, the songs deal with the usual litany of human miseries and occasional joys: aging, death, loneliness, god, regret and even love. The music draws influence from the rural music of the 20's: rags, blues, and folk tunes."

8. Charlie Parr – 1922 Limited Edition

Folk troubadour, Charlie Parr mixes country with blues, with folk, and with soul. Recorded with an old school sound, Parr evokes serious emotion with a simple strum of his guitar. He currently lives in Duluth with his wife and his two young children. His first album, 1922, illustrates Parr's progression as an artist. While the original pressing is over and gone, Charlie's back with a limited edition version to cure your cravings. A must have for fans of Parr, or the genre in general.

9. Muja Messiah – MPLS Massacre

Local hip-hopper, Muja Messiah, wants YOU on his growing list of Myspace friends. A connoisseur of knowledge and a Brooklyn Park Native, he began his career in a local rap group called Five Percent Nation, developing his penchant for teamwork that has carried him through to his most recent endeavor, hip-hop quintet Raw Villa. Born Robert Hedges, Muja Messiah has been known to play with names. His long-running stage name is based on the Arabic word for "soldier," (Mujahideen) and the not-so-subtle image of a Messiah; fighting for deliverance. In December of 2007, Muja was voted one of VIBE magazine's "51 Best Myspace Rappers," a prestigious honor in today's fast-paced, online-community driven culture. On his latest release (with Raw Villa), MPLS Massacre, Muja compiles 27 tracks of pure mix-tape goodness. The disc is, essentially, a catch-all for the B material, not suitable by Muja himself for his highly anticipated "official" album out this summer. But don't be fooled, MPLS Massacre harbors numerous A tracks, including a remake of M.I.A.'s "Paper Planes," a collaboration with fellow local rapper, M.anifest. Minneapolis Star Tribune's Chris Riemenschneider sums up the vibe of MPLS Massacre quite nicely, "[the album] features a mix of thug-leaning tracks, a few party anthems and one political thinker." Muja seeks to acquire one million Myspace friends in time for the release of the aforementioned album, Thee Adventures of a B-Boy D-Boy. Kill multiple birds with one stone: support local hip-hop, check out the buzz, and help a starry-eyed dreamweaver reach his goals of numerical stardom.

10. Kanser – Future Retro Legacy

To get listeners ready for the future full-length album (of the same title: Future Retro Legacy), Kanser has released a collection of old and new songs mixed by DJ Last Word. Kanser's ringleader, Zach Combs, is no stranger to the Minneapolis hip-hop scene. Along with bandmates Unicus, New MC, and DJ Elusive, Kanser has 6 independent albums to date. After a solo release under the moniker, "White Jesus," Zach is back with his boys and ready for a few more Kanser records. Future Retro Legacy was produced by Jesse Semenko (Unknown Prophets) and is a perfect mix of funk/R&B and hip-hop. Future Retro Legacy is a fun summertime jam and ready to be performed at your next house party, for fans of Big Quarters and The Unknown Prophets.

11:52 AM - 0 Comments - 0 Kudos - Add Comment

Local Top Ten List for week of 4-22-08
Category: Music

Local Top Ten List

1. Pert Near Sandstone – Live: Just Outside of Sandstone

Pert' Near Sandstone is a bluegrass string band whose infectious, "new timey" sound has raised an awareness in the Minneapolis music scene to the virtues of bluegrass. The band consists of numerous classic bluegrass instruments, like the banjo, fiddle, and mandolin. The band's name is an homage to their roots – most members grew up in Brooklyn Park which, for all intensive purposes, is "pert near" the sandstone of the Mississippi. PNS got their big break on Oprah, when they were finalists in an Oreo & Milk Jingle contest and found their own success with bluegrass after the release of the hit movie that made the genre cool again, O Brother Where Art Thou. In 2005, the band released Live-Just Outside of Sandstone, an aptly named live endeavor featuring fifteen tracks with two original songs. In Live, the boys explore their genre's musical roots and delight with toe-stomping instrumentation.

2. Charlie Parr – 1922 Limited Edition

Folk troubadour, Charlie Parr mixes country with blues, with folk, and with soul. Recorded with an old school sound, Parr evokes serious emotion with a simple strum of his guitar. He currently lives in Duluth with his wife and his two young children. His first album, 1922, illustrates Parr's progression as an artist. While the original pressing is over and gone, Charlie's back with a limited edition version to cure your cravings. A must have for fans of Parr, or the genre in general.

3. Peter Lang – Testament

Grammy nominated Peter Lang is "one of the world's preeminent 6- and 12-string figerstyle solo instrumentalists," according to Guitar Player magazine. With a long, rich history in the Minnesota music scene, Lang is back with his twelfth album to date, Testament. In his own words, "The album features many of the songs I worked out while learning to play the guitar. Most of them represent the DNA of the American musical experience and are the starting points for much of the blues, jazz, and pop that followed. It was fantastic to get inside these pieces, pump them up, and give them as much life as possible." Lang's vocals and legendary guitar work are joined on the album by drummer Dave King (the Bad Plus, Happy Apple), bassist Steve Larkin, and producer/harmonica player Michael Tanner. A must have for blues fans and guitar aficionados.

4. Awesome Snakes – Venom

Made up of Annie and Danny from the Soviettes, the Awesome Snakes (appropriately named) use their talent in new ways to sing about the awesome properties of snakes. With a cameo from local hip-hop prodigy P.O.S., Venom packs a punch. Categorized by bass, drums, and attitude -- when paired with the band's muse (snakes), the Awesome Snakes are f***ing awesome.

5. Vampire Hands – Virgin Dust American Lips

With a sound that cannot be easily pinned down, Vampire Hands straddle genres with their mind-bending version of musical bliss. Vocalist/maraca-extraordinaire Colin Johnson (Thunder in the Valley, the Chambermaids) is joined by vocalist/bassist Chris Bierden, as well as brothers Chris (guitar) and Alex Rose (drums). Vampire Hands emerged on the Minneapolis music scene in 2006. Later that year they were chosen (cursed?) for City Pages annual Picked2Click issue. Their latest, Virgin Dust American Lips, is the band's first full-length album following the success of two EPs. Pat O'Brien of City Pages describes Vampire Hands' sound on the album, "VH occupy a space where damaged surf guitars, moody atmospherics reminiscent of Manchester's shoegazing heyday, and San Francisco psychedelic sensibilities all collide." On their website, the band cites influences such as Can, Brian Eno, Roxy Music, the Velvet Underground, and Iggy Pop. However, the music of Vampire Hands cannot be fully described through a list of their inspirations – their sound "draws reference to said artists while wholly maintaining and creating something new." In the words of Chuck Terhark (also of City Pages), "The result is exciting, experimental, and not nearly as nefarious as the band's name would suggest."

6. Trampled By Turtles – Songs From A Ghost Town

Predominantly bluegrass, slightly sardonic, and definitely youthful – Tramped By Turtles has carved a niche for themselves among the talented and the innovative in the local music scene. The Duluth foursome always manages to captivate concert-goers with their energetic live performances and truly unique stage presence. Songs from a Ghost Town is Trampled By Turtles' first album, released in 2004.

7. Crescent Moon w/Big Trouble – Crescent Moon is in Big Trouble

Heiruspecs' Sean McPherson had a plan. With his brother, Steve, the two set out to form a band that revisits the sprawling instrumental covers of yesteryear. The result, Big Trouble, covers classics and modern day favorites and promises to "blow your mind softly." Big Trouble has toured the Twin Cities, bringing grooves to the stage in their own right, as well as backing for artists like Joanna James, P.O.S., and Crescent Moon (Odd Jobs, Kill the Vultures, Roma di Luna). Their collaboration with the latter went so well, they decided to record an album together: Crescent Moon is in Big Trouble. Chris Riemenschneider of the Star Tribune says, "the six-track disc finds Crescent spewing out dark and weary-sounding tunes over gritty, smoky, bluesy and raw rock 'n' roll." So go out and get in big trouble!

8. Doomtree – False Hopes

Doomtree is a sensational local hip-hop collective, oozing with talent and love. It's members share an unwavering penchant for teamwork, support, and artistic expression. Their latest, False Hopes, is not to be confused the respective False Hopes EP's from members Dessa and Cecil Otter. This False Hopes is a collaboration among all members, and contains the rarities and b-sides that didn't make the cut on their much anticipated upcoming album. From the group's website: "So, friend, consider this sack-full of songs not as a true album, but rather a collection of "specials" that didn't quite fit in with the family. They are all beautiful in their own right, but a few unfortunate idiosyncrasies […] have prevented them from meeting the Doomtree Family Gold Standard and making the proverbial A-team." Each member of Doomtree is multi-talented and brings something special to the table. They are: Cecil Otter (emcee/producer), Dessa (emcee/vocalist), Mike Mictlan (emcee), Sims (emcee), P.O.S. (emcee/producer), Paper Tiger (producer/DJ/graphic designer), Marshall Larada (producer/DJ/visual artist), Lazerbeak (producer/musician), Turbo Nemesis (DJ/Engineer), Emily Bloodmobile (producer), and Tom Servo (producer/DJ). Their combined force is undeniable. Pick up Doomtree's False Hopes and rejoice in love and hip-hop.

9. Ray Covington – Rayflections

Local R&B singer/songwriter Ray Covington is back with his third album, Rayflections. A true talent in his genre, Covington continues to make a name for himself in the Minneapolis music scene and hopes to make an even bigger splash in years to come!

10. Wookiefoot – Domesticated

Wookiefoot is a local enigma all its own. With annual festivals and a unique style that is more of a culture than a genre of music, the Wookiefoot fan is dedicated almost religiously to frontman Mike Murphy's real-world lyrics and the band's instrumental fusion of reggae, hip-hop, and hardcore. Aside from their music, the members of Wookiefoot are committed to various charities around the world (The American Refugee Committee and Cambodia Land Mine Museum Relief, just to name a few), to which the proceeds of their festivals are routed. Their first release, Domesticated, was released in 2001 to much acclaim and is still revered today as a local music masterpiece.

11:48 AM - 2 Comments - 0 Kudos - Add Comment

Local Top Ten List for week of 4-15-08
Category: Music

Local Top Ten List

1. Spaghetti Western String Co. – Lull & Clatter

The Spaghetti Western String Company is an acoustic quartet from Minneapolis whose haunting melodies and acoustic instrumentation have made them a staple on "Best of the Twin Cities" lists since they formed in 2003. Members Michael Rossetto (banjo, guitar), Paul Fonfara (clarinet), Nick Lemme (mandolin, vocals), and Ethan Sutton (cello) are back with a new full-length album after spending some time scoring silent films and dance performances. Lull & Clatter is the band's third release, and features appearances by J.T. Bates (Fat Kid Wednesdays), Channy Moon (Roma di Luna), and a full choir! Their sound is a mixture of classical, jazz, European folk, and new acoustic sounds. City Pages' Steve McPherson explains, "Lull & Clatter is about as far from a freewheeling jam record as you can imagine, stuffed to the brim with elegantly structured tunes that aren't nearly as creaky and traditionalist as the instrumental lineup might imply—and it's anything but lo-fi." Spaghetti Western is known not only for their beautiful music, but also for their dedication to music education. They are currently working with Minnesota schools to educate on the importance of music in schools, and to further their music education programs. Winners of the Minnesota Music Awards "Best Eclectic Artist of the Year" in 2005 and 2006, the Spaghetti Western String Company is definitely a treat to savor!

2. Crescent Moon w/Big Trouble – Crescent Moon is in Big Trouble

Heiruspecs' Sean McPherson had a plan. With his brother, Steve, the two set out to form a band that revisits the sprawling instrumental covers of yesteryear. The result, Big Trouble, covers classics and modern day favorites and promises to "blow your mind softly." Big Trouble has toured the Twin Cities, bringing grooves to the stage in their own right, as well as backing for artists like Joanna James, P.O.S., and Crescent Moon (Odd Jobs, Kill the Vultures, Roma di Luna). Their collaboration with the latter went so well, they decided to record an album together: Crescent Moon is in Big Trouble. Chris Riemenschneider of the Star Tribune says, "the six-track disc finds Crescent spewing out dark and weary-sounding tunes over gritty, smoky, bluesy and raw rock 'n' roll." So go out and get in big trouble!

3. Kanser – Future Retro Legacy

To get listeners ready for the future full-length album (of the same title: Future Retro Legacy), Kanser has released a collection of old and new songs mixed by DJ Last Word. Kanser's ringleader, Zach Combs, is no stranger to the Minneapolis hip-hop scene. Along with bandmates Unicus, New MC, and DJ Elusive, Kanser has 6 independent albums to date. After a solo release under the moniker, "White Jesus," Zach is back with his boys and ready for a few more Kanser records. Future Retro Legacy was produced by Jesse Semenko (Unknown Prophets) and is a perfect mix of funk/R&B and hip-hop. Future Retro Legacy is a fun summertime jam and ready to be performed at your next house party, for fans of Big Quarters and The Unknown Prophets.

4. Romantica – America

Romantica is a local band whose genre is best described as Americana, although it encompasses a much broader range of pop, folk, alt.country, and R&B. Lyrically, they're in a poetic category all their own. From the band's website: "Romantica manage to deliver an understated heart-to-heart in an envelope of melodic charm and sarcastic wit: too smart to be sentimental, too sweet to be taken too seriously." Frontman Ben Kyle was born and raised in Belfast, Ireland – a biographical anecdote that holds weight in Romantica's lyrical themes and musical sounds. Kyle met bassist and "multi-instrumentalist" Luke Jacobs in college, and later added percussionist Mark Hedlund to form what Minneapolis music fans now know as Romantica. In 2004, they released their debut album, It's Your Weakness That I Want, an aptly titled array of instrumentally inventive love songs. 2007's America is the band's second studio endeavor, released on 2024 Records. City Pages' Sarah Askari delivers a succinct description of the new album, "America [is] an album of lush, richly orchestrated pop-folk made rural by twangy pedal steel and keening fiddle parts (courtesy of occasional Golden Smog collaborator Jessy Greene)." For fans of Sufjan Stevens, Johnny Cash, Wilco, and the Replacements.

5. Vampire Hands – Me & You Cherry Red

With a sound that cannot be easily pinned down, Vampire Hands straddle genres with their mind-bending version of musical bliss. Vocalist/maraca-extraordinaire Colin Johnson (Thunder in the Valley, the Chambermaids) is joined by vocalist/bassist Chris Bierden, as well as brothers Chris (guitar) and Alex Rose (drums). Vampire Hands emerged on the Minneapolis music scene in 2006. Later that year they were chosen (cursed?) for City Pages annual Picked2Click issue. The band spent the winter of 2008 hold up in their practice space, preparing themselves for the whirlwind that is their second album, Me & You Cherry Red, 25-minutes of jam-packed atmospheric rock'n'roll. The disc focuses on percussion and imagery. Chris Polley of Radio K explains, "Picture the elongated yellow-nailed, powder white digits of an undead hand wrapping slowly around an imminent victim's smooth and ripe throat - this is the eerily hypnotic and frighteningly captivating world of Vampire Hands." Steve McPherson of Reveille Magazine says, "Me & You Cherry Red is a dusty little gem of a record with a fine balance of electronic and organic elements, of sprawling fuzziness and concise melodies, of expansive experimentation and straightforward songwriting." Pick one up and prove the curse is broken!

6. Trampled By Turtles – Live at Lucé

Predominantly bluegrass, slightly sardonic, and definitely youthful – Trampled By Turtles has carved a niche for themselves among the talented and the innovative in the local music scene. The Duluth foursome always manages to captivate concert-goers with their energetic live performances and truly unique stage presence. Live at Lucé was recorded live at Duluth's Pizza Lucé location and includes tracks from TBT's first two studio albums: Blue Sky & The Devil and Songs From A Ghost Town. It's a toe-stompin' good time!

7. Charlie Parr – 1922 Limited Edition

Folk troubadour, Charlie Parr mixes country with blues, with folk, and with soul. Recorded with an old school sound, Parr evokes serious emotion with a simple strum of his guitar. He currently lives in Duluth with his wife and his two young children. His first album, 1922, illustrates Parr's progression as an artist. While the original pressing is over and gone, Charlie's back with a limited edition version to cure your cravings. A must have for fans of Parr, or the genre in general.

8. Kill the Vultures – Midnight Pine

Google "Kill the Vultures" and you will be met with a vague-yet-succinct description of the band: "Kill The Vultures is a band hell bent on using beats and rhymes to sound like bent hell, flipping abrasive and dissonant punk and bop samples instead of typical boom bap." Deliciously avant garde, Kill the Vultures is a labor of love on the part of four former members of Oddjobs, a hip-hop group that was descending on the national market when their focus shifted and changed. When Oddjobs relocated to California in 2002, they found themselves working to recreate the cold, dark atmosphere of Minnesota winters (i.e. taping black garbage bags to the windows), in effort to summon their deepest emotions. The result was a realization that they were no longer Oddjobs; no longer focused on commercial beats so much as soul-bearing hip-hop that speaks to a generation of lost thinkers. They rearranged their lineup, changed their name, and Kill the Vultures was born. The name is an homage to the pesky bird who smells death (or, more symbolically, failure) and swarms. "There are people in your life who really benefit from bringing you down," Adam Waytz (aka Advizer) tells City Pages in 2005, "Killing the vultures is about preempting those demons." The band's latest, Midnight Pine, is a six-song EP and is their third album to date. The sound is more jazz-inspired than their previous endeavors, while still incorporating their hip-hop roots. Alexei Casselle (aka Crescent Moon), who received local acclaim earlier this year for Roma di Luna, his hauntingly evocative folk project with wife Channy, illustrates his versatility as he delivers the same leathery vocals in a much different genre. City Pages' Nate Patrin explains the feel of the album. "Most of his lyrics benefit from a deliberate, almost world-weary grumble, as if they're being scowled out over a bottle at 2:00 a.m." Midnight Pine will be used as the soundtrack to a film of the same name, with a similar feel, that has yet to be released. For fans of Atmosphere, Sun Ra, Roma di Luna, and mind-bending genre fusion that opens the mind and moves the feet.

9. Doomtree – False Hopes

Doomtree is a sensational local hip-hop collective, oozing with talent and love. It's members share an unwavering penchant for teamwork, support, and artistic expression. Their latest, False Hopes, is not to be confused the respective False Hopes EP's from members Dessa and Cecil Otter. This False Hopes is a collaboration among all members, and contains the rarities and b-sides that didn't make the cut on their much anticipated upcoming album. From the group's website: "So, friend, consider this sack-full of songs not as a true album, but rather a collection of "specials" that didn't quite fit in with the family. They are all beautiful in their own right, but a few unfortunate idiosyncrasies […] have prevented them from meeting the Doomtree Family Gold Standard and making the proverbial A-team." Each member of Doomtree is multi-talented and brings something special to the table. They are: Cecil Otter (emcee/producer), Dessa (emcee/vocalist), Mike Mictlan (emcee), Sims (emcee), P.O.S. (emcee/producer), Paper Tiger (producer/DJ/graphic designer), Marshall Larada (producer/DJ/visual artist), Lazerbeak (producer/musician), Turbo Nemesis (DJ/Engineer), Emily Bloodmobile (producer), and Tom Servo (producer/DJ). Their combined force is undeniable. Pick up Doomtree's False Hopes and rejoice in love and hip-hop.

10. Muja Messiah – MPLS Massacre

Local hip-hopper, Muja Messiah, wants YOU on his growing list of Myspace friends. A connoisseur of knowledge and a Brooklyn Park Native, he began his career in a local rap group called Five Percent Nation, developing his penchant for teamwork that has carried him through to his most recent endeavor, hip-hop quintet Raw Villa. Born Robert Hedges, Muja Messiah has been known to play with names. His long-running stage name is based on the Arabic word for "soldier," (Mujahideen) and the not-so-subtle image of a Messiah; fighting for deliverance. In December of 2007, Muja was voted one of VIBE magazine's "51 Best Myspace Rappers," a prestigious honor in today's fast-paced, online-community driven culture. On his latest release (with Raw Villa), MPLS Massacre, Muja compiles 27 tracks of pure mix-tape goodness. The disc is, essentially, a catch-all for the B material, not suitable by Muja himself for his highly anticipated "official" album out this summer. But don't be fooled, MPLS Massacre harbors numerous A tracks, including a remake of M.I.A.'s "Paper Planes," a collaboration with fellow local rapper, M.anifest. Minneapolis Star Tribune's Chris Riemenschneider sums up the vibe of MPLS Massacre quite nicely, "[the album] features a mix of thug-leaning tracks, a few party anthems and one political thinker." Muja seeks to acquire one million Myspace friends in time for the release of the aforementioned album, Thee Adventures of a B-Boy D-Boy. Kill multiple birds with one stone: support local hip-hop, check out the buzz, and help a starry-eyed dreamweaver reach his goals of numerical stardom.

10:59 PM - 0 Comments - 0 Kudos - Add Comment

Local Top Ten List for week of 4-8-08
Category: Music

Local Top Ten List

1. Vampire Hands – Me & You Cherry Red

   With a sound that cannot be easily pinned down, Vampire Hands straddle genres with their mind-bending version of musical bliss. Vocalist/maraca-extraordinaire Colin Johnson (Thunder in the Valley, the Chambermaids) is joined by vocalist/bassist Chris Bierden, as well as brothers Chris (guitar) and Alex Rose (drums). Vampire Hands emerged on the Minneapolis music scene in 2006. Later that year they were chosen (cursed?) for City Pages annual Picked2Click issue. The band spent the winter of 2008 hold up in their practice space, preparing themselves for the whirlwind that is their second album, Me & You Cherry Red, 25-minutes of jam-packed atmospheric rock'n'roll. The disc focuses on percussion and imagery. Chris Polley of Radio K explains, "Picture the elongated yellow-nailed, powder white digits of an undead hand wrapping slowly around an imminent victim's smooth and ripe throat - this is the eerily hypnotic and frighteningly captivating world of Vampire Hands." Steve McPherson of Reveille Magazine says, "Me & You Cherry Red is a dusty little gem of a record with a fine balance of electronic and organic elements, of sprawling fuzziness and concise melodies, of expansive experimentation and straightforward songwriting." Pick one up and prove the curse is broken!

2. Crescent Moon w/Big Trouble – Crescent Moon is in Big Trouble

   Heiruspecs' Sean McPherson had a plan. With his brother, Steve, the two set out to form a band that revisits the sprawling instrumental covers of yesteryear. The result, Big Trouble, covers classics and modern day favorites and promises to "blow your mind softly." Big Trouble has toured the Twin Cities, bringing grooves to the stage in their own right, as well as backing for artists like Joanna James, P.O.S., and Crescent Moon (Odd Jobs, Kill the Vultures, Roma di Luna). Their collaboration with the latter went so well, they decided to record an album together: Crescent Moon is in Big Trouble. Chris Riemenschneider of the Star Tribune says, "the six-track disc finds Crescent spewing out dark and weary-sounding tunes over gritty, smoky, bluesy and raw rock 'n' roll." So go out and get in big trouble!

3. Lamont Cranston Blues Band – Live at the People's Fair 1987

   Lamont Cranston is a Minneapolis Music legend. The band began in 1969 under the direction of Pat "Lamont" Hayes: vocalist, guitarist, and world-renowned harmonica player. There have been many incarnations of the lineup since their start nearly 40 years ago, but the music is unchanging. The band took their name from the alter ego of a comic book hero, "The Shadow", who was "Lamont Cranston" by day. They had a national hit with "Upper Mississippi Shakedown," and have shared the stage with numerous musical legends – from Bonnie Raitt to the Blues Brothers (Dan Aykroyd is a fan) to the Rolling Stones. Their latest, Live at the People's Fair 1987, was recorded live at the People's Fair in Mankato, MN in 1987 (as the title suggests). It was unearthed by Hayes and remastered at Bryte Spot Studios in Minneapolis. It features never before heard tracks, as well live renditions of their classics.

4. Keston & Westdal – One Day to Save All Life

   Keston and Westdal are a jazz/electronic duo who reside in Minneapolis. John Keston, a jazz pianist from the UK, got together with Nils Westdal, an esteemed bassist from the Bay Area, in 2000. Together, they honed their sound, blending their respective styles and composing/producing their own material. Two albums and several international tours later, Keston and Westdal are back with the third installment of their patented soundscape, One Day to Save All Life. The album is notably more relaxed than their previous endeavors, keeping in line with their self-proclaimed genre of "organic electronic" music. Scissorkick.com describes the disc as, "solidly downtempo in nature — instrumental, atmospheric, moody, cinematic." Slackradio.com says, "This release shares comparisons to some of the exploratory work of Boards of Canada or even early Pink Floyd. The initial beat work sounds like an organism experiencing the beginnings of life." In the spirit of environmentalism, the CD package is printed on 100% recycled paper and the CD tray is made from 100% post consumer waste. For fans of modern electronic jazz and saving the planet.

5. Brass Kings – Brass Kings

   Good, old-fashioned fingerpickin'. The Brass Kings take listeners on a wild ride with unconventional instruments like the washboard and washtub bass, and an almost middle-eastern sound. For fans of the Front Porch Swingin' Liquor Pigs.

6. Brass Kings – Washboard, Rope, and Guitar

   The Brass Kings play old-fashioned, stripped-down, acoustic folk and "psychobilly." The latest release, Washboard, Rope, and Guitar, is aptly titled according to their instrumentation. The disc is their second release to date and features thirteen original songs recorded live in the studio. Members Steve Kaul, Mikkel Beckmen, and Brad Ptacek have refined their sound to produce a truly stellar album. Pick it up and stomp your feet!

7. Cloud Cult – Who Killed Puck?

   Cloud Cult has been a part of the rich Minnesota music scene since 1995. The band began as frontman Craig Minowa's solo project. He recorded out of a closet with household items like buckets and pans to make the most of his low budget. Since then, Minowa enlisted the help of his friends for both studio recordings and live shows, started Earthology Records ("the world's most environmentally friendly not-for-profit record label," according to the New York Times), and released a slew of critically acclaimed albums that have garnered national attention. Before his empire took shape, Minowa released Who Killed Puck? in 2000. From the band's website, "The album took 4 long years to create and is a concept album about a man's life, starting moments before conception and following through his struggles to find peace in a world overflowing with commercialism and environmental degradation." Lauded as one of the greatest concept albums of all time, Who Killed Puck? takes the listener on a journey that they will not soon forget. Super fans will enjoy the stripped-down nature of the album, especially when compared to their latest release, The Meaning of 8. Always philosophical, evocative, and melodic, Cloud Cult is a band to fall in love with every step of the way.

8. Charlie Parr – 1922 (Limited Edition)

   Folk troubadour, Charlie Parr mixes country with blues, with folk, and with soul. Recorded with an old school sound, Parr evokes serious emotion with a simple strum of his guitar. He currently lives in Duluth with his wife and his two young children. His first album, 1922, illustrates Parr's progression as an artist. While the original pressing is over and gone, Charlie's back with a limited edition version to cure your cravings. A must have for fans of Parr, or the genre in general.

9. Peter Lang – Testament

   Grammy nominated Peter Lang is "one of the world's preeminent 6- and 12-string figerstyle solo instrumentalists," according to Guitar Player magazine. With a long, rich history in the Minnesota music scene, Lang is back with his twelfth album to date, Testament. In his own words, "The album features many of the songs I worked out while learning to play the guitar. Most of them represent the DNA of the American musical experience and are the starting points for much of the blues, jazz, and pop that followed. It was fantastic to get inside these pieces, pump them up, and give them as much life as possible." Lang's vocals and legendary guitar work are joined on the album by drummer Dave King (the Bad Plus, Happy Apple), bassist Steve Larkin, and producer/harmonica player Michael Tanner. A must have for blues fans and guitar aficionados.

10. Heiruspecs – 10 Years Strong

Heiruspecs' Sean McPherson describes the band's latest, limited edition album in his own words. "The definitive Heiruspecs experience, Ten Years Strong captures Heiruspecs from their roots at St. Paul Central High School on up to their position as the finest purveyors of live hip-hop in the Midwest. This full-length record features exclusively unreleased or out of print performances, including songs from Heiruspecs's two out of print records, Live from the Studio and Antidisestablishmetabolism. Ten Years Strong also features five new songs that have never been released before. Ten Years Strong captures Heiruspecs at the proudest moments of their first ten years of history. Buy yours today, there are only a thousand copies of Ten Years Strong."

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Local Top Ten List for week of 4-1-08
Category: Music

Local Top Ten List

1. Bo Ramsey – Fragile

Bo Ramsey is a legendary blues man who has spent the majority of his 30+ year career behind the scenes or just outside of the spotlight. An Iowa native, Ramsey became an instrumental part of the music scene there, serving a seminal role in the development of the patented Iowa blues-rock hybrid. He played with artists like Greg Brown, and Joe Price – touring, producing, and dabbling in songwriting. Ramsey has produced and played with an impressive range of artists, from Lucinda Williams (for whom his production work earned him a Grammy nomination) and Pete Seeger to Ani DiFranco and Joan Baez. Throughout his career, Ramsey has made time to release his own albums. His latest, Fragile, is his eleventh to date. Ramsey’s wife, Pieta Brown, co-produced the record and lends her talents on piano and keyboard. All of the songs on the disc are originals, some of which are reworked leftovers from previous albums. Ramsey takes pride in re-inventing his material. He tells Jeff Ignatius of River Cities’ Reader, "It’s the nature of songs. Songs are living things, and if you listen closely, they’ll tell you what to do." Lucinda Williams says, "Bo Ramsey drips cool." Ramsey’s grizzled voice and illustrious guitar make Fragile a must-have for blues fans.

2. Brass Kings – Washboard, Rope, and Guitar

The Brass Kings play old-fashioned, stripped-down, acoustic folk and "psychobilly." The latest release, Washboard, Rope, and Guitar, is aptly titled according to their instrumentation. The disc is their second release to date and features thirteen original songs recorded live in the studio. Members Steve Kaul, Mikkel Beckmen, and Brad Ptacek have refined their sound to produce a truly stellar album. Pick it up and stomp your feet!

3. Vampire Hands – Me & You Cherry Red

Local psychedelic grunge rockers Vampire Hands are back with a follow-up to their critically acclaimed debut full-length, Virgin Dust American Lips. With a sound that cannot be easily pinned down, Vampire Hands straddle genres with their mind-bending version of musical bliss. Vocalist/maraca-extraordinaire Colin Johnson (Thunder in the Valley, the Chambermaids) is joined by vocalist/bassist Chris Bierden, as well as brothers Chris (guitar) and Alex Rose (drums). Vampire Hands emerged on the Minneapolis music scene in 2006. Later that year they were chosen (cursed?) for City Pages annual Picked2Click issue. The band spent the winter of 2008 hold up in their practice space, preparing themselves for the whirlwind that is their second album, Me & You Cherry Red, 25-minutes of jam-packed atmospheric rock’n’roll. The disc focuses on percussion and imagery. Chris Polley of Radio K explains, "Picture the elongated yellow-nailed, powder white digits of an undead hand wrapping slowly around an imminent victim’s smooth and ripe throat - this is the eerily hypnotic and frighteningly captivating world of Vampire Hands." Steve McPherson of Reveille Magazine says, "Me & You Cherry Red is a dusty little gem of a record with a fine balance of electronic and organic elements, of sprawling fuzziness and concise melodies, of expansive experimentation and straightforward songwriting." Pick one and up prove the curse is broken!

4. Charlie Parr – 1922 (Limited Edition)

Folk troubadour, Charlie Parr mixes country with blues, with folk, and with soul. Recorded with an old school sound, Parr evokes serious emotion with a simple strum of his guitar. He currently lives in Duluth with his wife and his two young children. His first album, 1922, illustrates Parr’s progression as an artist. While the original pressing is over and gone, Charlie’s back with a limited edition version to cure your cravings. A must have for fans of Parr, or the genre in general.

5. Trampled By Turtles – Songs From A Ghost Town

Predominantly bluegrass, slightly sardonic, and definitely youthful – Tramped By Turtles has carved a niche for themselves among the talented and the innovative in the local music scene. The Duluth foursome always manages to captivate concert-goers with their energetic live performances and truly unique stage presence. Songs from a Ghost Town is Trampled By Turtles’ first album, released in 2004.

6. House of Mercy Band – Left Behind

The House of Mercy band was founded over ten years ago and has been making music that transcends conventional spiritual boundaries ever since. The members first met at the Turf Club in St. Paul, where they discovered their mutual love of country gospel music and set up shop in the club’s basement to begin writing songs. After searching for a church affiliation, they teamed up with the House of Mercy Church, where they got their name and can be seen every Sunday… usually after a rousing set at the Turf Club the night before. If this seems contradictory, you aren’t yet familiar with the band. While their alt.country is served with a side of gospel, it is delivered in a most unpretentious, all-encompassing manner that allows for dancing drunk patrons on Saturday as much penance-seeking church-goers the following morning. Soon-to-be-former bandleader C.P. Larson explains, "House of Mercy is not about saving people through fear but through love, getting rid of the hell-fire and brimstone." Their latest album, Left Behind, was released by the church and is more than a passing reference to the Rapture. City Pages’ Sarah Askari explains, "The album title is a tongue-in-cheek reference by a band of grownup and grown-out-of-it evangelicals who now worship a much more forgiving Christ." She continues, "There’s no Jesus name-dropping on the record; while the group is full of faith, they’ve produced a work more faithful to musical ideals than to religious ones. With the purity of old rural gospel harmonizing and the electric-fence guitar twang of country-rock, the disc’s seven songs bring (secular) rapture and here-on-earth grace." Clearly, the members of the House of Mercy band do not seek to force belief through fear and guilt; they are simply trying to evoke powerful personal reflection through the universal language of music. Left Behind is also a milestone for the group. Its release commemorates the end of C.P. Larson’s reign as bandleader. He will return to his day job as an art instructor at the University of Minnesota, where he is an internationally recognized artist under his real name, Chris Larson. The band will now be led under the direction of Mike "Razz" Russell. Perhaps adding deeper meaning to his final album’s title, Larson describes his calm at the end of the journey. "I feel satisfied. That guy I was, C.P. Larson, it’s nice to leave him behind." Left Behind is a must-hear for believers and skeptics alike. As Howwastheshow.com’s Bob Longmore explains, "you don’t have to heed the word to be moved by the music."

7. Crescent Moon w/Big Trouble – Crescent Moon is in Big Trouble

Heiruspecs’ Sean McPherson had a plan. With his brother, Steve, the two set out to form a band that revisits the sprawling instrumental covers of yesteryear. The result, Big Trouble, covers classics and modern day favorites and promises to "blow your mind softly." Big Trouble has toured the Twin Cities, bringing grooves to the stage in their own right, as well as backing for artists like Joanna James, P.O.S., and Crescent Moon (Odd Jobs, Kill the Vultures, Roma di Luna). Their collaboration with the latter went so well, they decided to record an album together: Crescent Moon is in Big Trouble. Chris Riemenschneider of the Star Tribune says, "the six-track disc finds Crescent spewing out dark and weary-sounding tunes over gritty, smoky, bluesy and raw rock ’n’ roll." So go out and get in big trouble!

8. Muja Messiah – MPLS Massacre

Local hip-hopper, Muja Messiah, wants YOU on his growing list of Myspace friends. A connoisseur of knowledge and a Brooklyn Park Native, he began his career in a local rap group called Five Percent Nation, developing his penchant for teamwork that has carried him through to his most recent endeavor, hip-hop quintet Raw Villa. Born Robert Hedges, Muja Messiah has been known to play with names. His long-running stage name is based on the Arabic word for "soldier," (Mujahideen) and the not-so-subtle image of a Messiah; fighting for deliverance. In December of 2007, Muja was voted one of VIBE magazine’s "51 Best Myspace Rappers," a prestigious honor in today’s fast-paced, online-community driven culture. On his latest release (with Raw Villa), MPLS Massacre, Muja compiles 27 tracks of pure mix-tape goodness. The disc is, essentially, a catch-all for the B material, not suitable by Muja himself for his highly anticipated "official" album out this summer. But don’t be fooled, MPLS Massacre harbors numerous A tracks, including a remake of M.I.A.’s "Paper Planes," a collaboration with fellow local rapper, M.anifest. Minneapolis Star Tribune’s Chris Riemenschneider sums up the vibe of MPLS Massacre quite nicely, "[the album] features a mix of thug-leaning tracks, a few party anthems and one political thinker." Muja seeks to acquire one million Myspace friends in time for the release of the aforementioned album, Thee Adventures of a B-Boy D-Boy. Kill multiple birds with one stone: support local hip-hop, check out the buzz, and help a starry-eyed dreamweaver reach his goals of numerical stardom.

9. Romantica – America

Romantica is a local band whose genre is best described as Americana, although it encompasses a much broader range of pop, folk, alt.country, and R&B. Lyrically, they’re in a poetic category all their own. From the band’s website: "Romantica manage to deliver an understated heart-to-heart in an envelope of melodic charm and sarcastic wit: too smart to be sentimental, too sweet to be taken too seriously." Frontman Ben Kyle was born and raised in Belfast, Ireland – a biographical anecdote that holds weight in Romantica’s lyrical themes and musical sounds. Kyle met bassist and "multi-instrumentalist" Luke Jacobs in college, and later added percussionist Mark Hedlund to form what Minneapolis music fans now know as Romantica. In 2004, they released their debut album, It’s Your Weakness That I Want, an aptly titled array of instrumentally inventive love songs. 2007’s America is the band’s second studio endeavor, released on 2024 Records. City Pages’ Sarah Askari delivers a succinct description of the new album, "America [is] an album of lush, richly orchestrated pop-folk made rural by twangy pedal steel and keening fiddle parts (courtesy of occasional Golden Smog collaborator Jessy Greene)." For fans of Sufjan Stevens, Johnny Cash, Wilco, and the Replacements.

10. Spaghetti Western String Co. – Lull & Clatter

The Spaghetti Western String Company is an acoustic quartet from Minneapolis whose haunting melodies and acoustic instrumentation have made them a staple on "Best of the Twin Cities" lists since they formed in 2003. Members Michael Rossetto (banjo, guitar), Paul Fonfara (clarinet), Nick Lemme (mandolin, vocals), and Ethan Sutton (cello) are back with a new full-length album after spending some time scoring silent films and dance performances. Lull & Clatter is the band’s third release, and features appearances by J.T. Bates (Fat Kid Wednesdays), Channy Moon (Roma di Luna), and a full choir! Their sound is a mixture of classical, jazz, European folk, and new acoustic sounds. City Pages’ Steve McPherson explains, "Lull & Clatter is about as far from a freewheeling jam record as you can imagine, stuffed to the brim with elegantly structured tunes that aren’t nearly as creaky and traditionalist as the instrumental lineup might imply—and it’s anything but lo-fi." Spaghetti Western is known not only for their beautiful music, but also for their dedication to music education. They are currently working with Minnesota schools to educate on the importance of music in schools, and to further their music education programs. Winners of the Minnesota Music Awards "Best Eclectic Artist of the Year" in 2005 and 2006, the Spaghetti Western String Company is definitely a treat to savor!

2:52 PM - 0 Comments - 0 Kudos - Add Comment

Local Top Ten List for week of 3-25-08
Category: Music

Local Top Ten List

1. Brass Kings – Washboard, Rope, and Guitar

The Brass Kings play old-fashioned, stripped-down, acoustic folk and "psychobilly." The latest release, Washboard, Rope, and Guitar, is aptly titled according to their instrumentation. The disc is their second release to date and features thirteen original songs recorded live in the studio. Members Steve Kaul, Mikkel Beckmen, and Brad Ptacek have refined their sound to produce a truly stellar album. Pick it up and stomp your feet!

2. Vampire Hands – Me & You Cherry Red

Local psychedelic grunge rockers Vampire Hands are back with a follow-up to their critically acclaimed debut full-length, Virgin Dust American Lips. With a sound that cannot be easily pinned down, Vampire Hands straddle genres with their mind-bending version of musical bliss. Vocalist/maraca-extraordinaire Colin Johnson (Thunder in the Valley, the Chambermaids) is joined by vocalist/bassist Chris Bierden, as well as brothers Chris (guitar) and Alex Rose (drums). Vampire Hands emerged on the Minneapolis music scene in 2006. Later that year they were chosen (cursed?) for City Pages annual Picked2Click issue. The band spent the winter of 2008 hold up in their practice space, preparing themselves for the whirlwind that is their second album, Me & You Cherry Red, 25-minutes of jam-packed atmospheric rock’n’roll. The disc focuses on percussion and imagery. Chris Polley of Radio K explains, "Picture the elongated yellow-nailed, powder white digits of an undead hand wrapping slowly around an imminent victim’s smooth and ripe throat - this is the eerily hypnotic and frighteningly captivating world of Vampire Hands." Steve McPherson of Reveille Magazine says, "Me & You Cherry Red is a dusty little gem of a record with a fine balance of electronic and organic elements, of sprawling fuzziness and concise melodies, of expansive experimentation and straightforward songwriting." Pick one and up prove the curse is broken!

3. Doomtree – False Hopes

Doomtree is a sensational local hip-hop collective, oozing with talent and love. It’s members share an unwavering penchant for teamwork, support, and artistic expression. Their latest, False Hopes, is not to be confused the respective False Hopes EP’s from members Dessa and Cecil Otter. This False Hopes is a collaboration among all members, and contains the rarities and b-sides that didn’t make the cut on their much anticipated upcoming album. From the group’s website: "So, friend, consider this sack-full of songs not as a true album, but rather a collection of "specials" that didn’t quite fit in with the family. They are all beautiful in their own right, but a few unfortunate idiosyncrasies […] have prevented them from meeting the Doomtree Family Gold Standard and making the proverbial A-team." Each member of Doomtree is multi-talented and brings something special to the table. They are: Cecil Otter (emcee/producer), Dessa (emcee/vocalist), Mike Mictlan (emcee), Sims (emcee), P.O.S. (emcee/producer), Paper Tiger (producer/DJ/graphic designer), Marshall Larada (producer/DJ/visual artist), Lazerbeak (producer/musician), Turbo Nemesis (DJ/Engineer), Emily Bloodmobile (producer), and Tom Servo (producer/DJ). Their combined force is undeniable. Pick up Doomtree’s False Hopes and rejoice in love and hip-hop.

4. Spaghetti Western String Co. – Lull & Clatter

The Spaghetti Western String Company is an acoustic quartet from Minneapolis whose haunting melodies and acoustic instrumentation have made them a staple on "Best of the Twin Cities" lists since they formed in 2003. Members Michael Rossetto (banjo, guitar), Paul Fonfara (clarinet), Nick Lemme (mandolin, vocals), and Ethan Sutton (cello) are back with a new full-length album after spending some time scoring silent films and dance performances. Lull & Clatter is the band’s third release, and features appearances by J.T. Bates (Fat Kid Wednesdays), Channy Moon (Roma di Luna), and a full choir! Their sound is a mixture of classical, jazz, European folk, and new acoustic sounds. City Pages’ Steve McPherson explains, "Lull & Clatter is about as far from a freewheeling jam record as you can imagine, stuffed to the brim with elegantly structured tunes that aren’t nearly as creaky and traditionalist as the instrumental lineup might imply—and it’s anything but lo-fi." Spaghetti Western is known not only for their beautiful music, but also for their dedication to music education. They are currently working with Minnesota schools to educate on the importance of music in schools, and to further their music education programs. Winners of the Minnesota Music Awards "Best Eclectic Artist of the Year" in 2005 and 2006, the Spaghetti Western String Company is definitely a treat to savor!

5. Crescent Moon w/Big Trouble – Crescent Moon is in Big Trouble

Heiruspecs’ Sean McPherson had a plan. With his brother, Steve, the two set out to form a band that revisits the sprawling instrumental covers of yesteryear. The result, Big Trouble, covers classics and modern day favorites and promises to "blow your mind softly." Big Trouble has toured the Twin Cities, bringing grooves to the stage in their own right, as well as backing for artists like Joanna James, P.O.S., and Crescent Moon (Odd Jobs, Kill the Vultures, Roma di Luna). Their collaboration with the latter went so well, they decided to record an album together: Crescent Moon is in Big Trouble. Chris Riemenschneider of the Star Tribune says, "the six-track disc finds Crescent spewing out dark and weary-sounding tunes over gritty, smoky, bluesy and raw rock ’n’ roll." So go out and get in big trouble!

6. Brass Kings – Brass Kings

Good, old-fashioned fingerpickin’. The Brass Kings take listeners on a wild ride with unconventional instruments like the washboard and washtub bass, and an almost middle-eastern sound. For fans of the Front Porch Swingin’ Liquor Pigs.

7. Charlie Parr – Jubilee

Folk troubadour, Charlie Parr mixes country with blues, with folk, and with soul. Recorded with an old school sound, Parr evokes serious emotion with a simple strum of his guitar. He currently lives in Duluth with his wife and his two young children. His latest release, Jubilee, was recorded in a Garage in Duluth MN with guest vocalists Emily Parr and Dave Simonett (Trampled By Turtles).

8. Pat Donohue – Freewayman

Pat Donohue is a legendary guitarist whose résumé includes a Grammy win, a regular spot on Garrison Keillor’s A Prairie Home Companion, and an impressive collection of testimonials from veteran musicians who admire his talent and drive. Donohue first tried his hand at guitar when he was twelve, taking charge of the craft. From his website: "As a youth, the St. Paul, Minnesota native pestered guitarists playing at Twin Cities coffee houses and blues venues, seeking tips on playing. Borrowing bits and pieces of the styles of finger picking pioneers he admired, he taught himself to play, building a repertoire flavored by Blind Blake, Django Reinhart and Chet Atkins." Years later, Atkins praised Donohue’s talent, saying, "Pat Donohue is one of the greatest finger pickers in the world today." A full-circle honor, indeed. Donohue’s latest, Freewayman, is his ninth album to date. It includes, "14 original and traditional acoustic guitar instrumentals that showcase blues, swing and folk in Pat’s inimitable fingerpicking style," according to his website. Donohue’s story is a testament to the power of personal drive. Pick up Freewayman and ponder the actions you can take to make your dreams come true.

9. Trampled By Turtles – Songs From A Ghost Town

Predominantly bluegrass, slightly sardonic, and definitely youthful – Tramped By Turtles has carved a niche for themselves among the talented and the innovative in the local music scene. The Duluth foursome always manages to captivate concert-goers with their energetic live performances and truly unique stage presence. Songs from a Ghost Town is Trampled By Turtles’ first album, released in 2004.

10. Heiruspecs – 10 Years Strong

Heiruspecs’ Sean McPherson describes the band’s latest, limited edition album in his own words. "The definitive Heiruspecs experience, Ten Years Strong captures Heiruspecs from their roots at St. Paul Central High School on up to their position as the finest purveyors of live hip-hop in the Midwest. This full-length record features exclusively unreleased or out of print performances, including songs from Heiruspecs’s two out of print records, Live from the Studio and Antidisestablishmetabolism. Ten Years Strong also features five new songs that have never been released before. Ten Years Strong captures Heiruspecs at the proudest moments of their first ten years of history. Buy yours today, there are only a thousand copies of Ten Years Strong."

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Local Top Ten List for week of 3-18-08
Category: Music

Local Top Ten List

1. Spaghetti Western String Co. – Lull & Clatter

The Spaghetti Western String Company is an acoustic quartet from Minneapolis whose haunting melodies and acoustic instrumentation have made them a staple on "Best of the Twin Cities" lists since they formed in 2003. Members Michael Rossetto (banjo, guitar), Paul Fonfara (clarinet), Nick Lemme (mandolin, vocals), and Ethan Sutton (cello) are back with a new full-length album after spending some time scoring silent films and dance performances. Lull & Clatter is the band’s third release, and features appearances by J.T. Bates (Fat Kid Wednesdays), Channy Moon (Roma di Luna), and a full choir! Their sound is a mixture of classical, jazz, European folk, and new acoustic sounds. City Pages’ Steve McPherson explains, "Lull & Clatter is about as far from a freewheeling jam record as you can imagine, stuffed to the brim with elegantly structured tunes that aren’t nearly as creaky and traditionalist as the instrumental lineup might imply—and it’s anything but lo-fi." Spaghetti Western is known not only for their beautiful music, but also for their dedication to music education. They are currently working with Minnesota schools to educate on the importance of music in schools, and to further their music education programs. Winners of the Minnesota Music Awards "Best Eclectic Artist of the Year" in 2005 and 2006, the Spaghetti Western String Company is definitely a treat to savor!

2. Muja Messiah – MPLS Massacre

Local hip-hopper, Muja Messiah, wants YOU on his growing list of Myspace friends. A connoisseur of knowledge and a Brooklyn Park Native, he began his career in a local rap group called Five Percent Nation, developing his penchant for teamwork that has carried him through to his most recent endeavor, hip-hop quintet Raw Villa. Born Robert Hedges, Muja Messiah has been known to play with names. His long-running stage name is based on the Arabic word for "soldier," (Mujahideen) and the not-so-subtle image of a Messiah; fighting for deliverance. In December of 2007, Muja was voted one of VIBE magazine’s "51 Best Myspace Rappers," a prestigious honor in today’s fast-paced, online-community driven culture. On his latest release (with Raw Villa), MPLS Massacre, Muja compiles 27 tracks of pure mix-tape goodness. The disc is, essentially, a catch-all for the B material, not suitable by Muja himself for his highly anticipated "official" album out this summer. But don’t be fooled, MPLS Massacre harbors numerous A tracks, including a remake of M.I.A.’s "Paper Planes," a collaboration with fellow local rapper, M.anifest. Minneapolis Star Tribune’s Chris Riemenschneider sums up the vibe of MPLS Massacre quite nicely, "[the album] features a mix of thug-leaning tracks, a few party anthems and one political thinker." Muja seeks to acquire one million Myspace friends in time for the release of the aforementioned album, Thee Adventures of a B-Boy D-Boy. Kill multiple birds with one stone: support local hip-hop, check out the buzz, and help a starry-eyed dreamweaver reach his goals of numerical stardom.

3. Willie Murphy – Devil in the White House

Willie Murphy is a legendary fixture in the Minneapolis music scene. From his Myspace page, "Willie Murphy, guitar/piano blues man, is one of three charter members of the Minnesota Music Hall of Fame along with Bob Dylan and Prince." Murphy began playing the piano at age four and started writing songs in High School. After graduation, he teamed up with "Spider" John Koerner, with whom he recorded a critically acclaimed album for Elektra Records and toured internationally before the two split to embark on their own creative endeavors. Since then, Murphy founded celebrated 70’s funk group Willie & The Bees, as well as his own record label (Atomic Theory). He has recorded numerous solo albums, including his latest, Devil in the White House, at his own Cockroach Park Studios. As the title suggests, listeners are in for a topical dose of Murphy’s candid brand of blues. Pick one up, just in time to a elect a new devil in the white house!

4. Brass Kings – Washboard, Rope, and Guitar

The Brass Kings play old-fashioned, stripped-down, acoustic folk and "psychobilly." The latest release, Washboard, Rope, and Guitar, is aptly titled according to their instrumentation. The disc is their second release to date and features thirteen original songs recorded live in the studio. Members Steve Kaul, Mikkel Beckmen, and Brad Ptacek have refined their sound to produce a truly stellar album. Pick it up and stomp your feet!

5. Connie Evingson – Little Did I Dream

Minneapolis-based Jazz-vocalist Connie Evingson is known for her worldy recordings. Evingson has quite a laundry list of musical accomplishments – including the 2005-2006 McKnight Artist Fellowship Award for Performing Musicians and a national stage show (Fever, A Tribute to Peggy Lee). Evingson’s latest, Little Did I Dream, is her eighth solo album to date. The disc is a collaboration with songwriter/pianist Dave Frishberg, who wrote all fourteen songs and accompanies Evingson on piano. The title is a reference to the dream-come-true nature of the project for Connie. In her liner notes, she writes: "I’ve been in love with Dave Frishberg’s work forever. Little did I dream that one day I’d get to record an entire album of his songs—with him at the piano." Legendary saxophone player Dave Karr lends his skills, as well – a pairing with Frishberg that began in the 1950’s when the two were friends at the U of M. Part of Evingson’s motivation lies in bringing the two together again. Andrea Canter of jazzpolice.com describes the appeal of Little Did I Dream: "Whether singing Lee or Lennon or Django, Connie Evingson has a voice that is readily identifiable, sure in pitch, just a tad smoky, her articulation always razor sharp even with fast tempos and dense lyrics, making her a perfect medium for the tunes and words of Dave Frishberg." The album also features local musicians Gordon Johnson (bass) and Phil Hey (drums). A must-have for jazz aficionados everywhere!

6. Romantica – America

Romantica is a local band whose genre is best described as Americana, although it encompasses a much broader range of pop, folk, alt.country, and R&B. Lyrically, they’re in a poetic category all their own. From the band’s website: "Romantica manage to deliver an understated heart-to-heart in an envelope of melodic charm and sarcastic wit: too smart to be sentimental, too sweet to be taken too seriously." Frontman Ben Kyle was born and raised in Belfast, Ireland – a biographical anecdote that holds weight in Romantica’s lyrical themes and musical sounds. Kyle met bassist and "multi-instrumentalist" Luke Jacobs in college, and later added percussionist Mark Hedlund to form what Minneapolis music fans now know as Romantica. In 2004, they released their debut album, It’s Your Weakness That I Want, an aptly titled array of instrumentally inventive love songs. 2007’s America is the band’s second studio endeavor, released on 2024 Records. City Pages’ Sarah Askari delivers a succinct description of the new album, "America [is] an album of lush, richly orchestrated pop-folk made rural by twangy pedal steel and keening fiddle parts (courtesy of occasional Golden Smog collaborator Jessy Greene)." For fans of Sufjan Stevens, Johnny Cash, Wilco, and the Replacements.

7. Vicious Vicious – Parade

Minneapolis music veteran Erik Appelwick has had his hand in just about every local indie project to garner national attention since 2000. Appelwick is a co-founder of the Hopefuls, as well as bass guitarist for local darlings Tapes N’ Tapes. He has also produced such local hits as White Light Riot’s debut EP, Dark is Light Enough. In 2001, however, Appelwick emerged with a solo project under the alias Vicious Vicious. Since then, Vicious Vicious has released two very well received albums: Blood & Clover and Don’t Look So Surprised. Appelwick began writing songs for the latest Vicious Vicious album, Parade, in 2004, but had to put the project on hold when he joined the boys of Tapes N’ Tapes on an international tour. Having produced their smash hit, The Loon, he was a shoe-in when their bassist left the band. While Parade has been three years in the making, it is well worth the wait. Megan Wiley of Mpls St. Paul Magazine describes the feel of the album. "Appelwick channels the Beatles in both his CD’s cover art—oh-so reminiscent of Yellow Submarine—and his compositions. He mixes that psychedelic sensibility with some playful Beck-like voice changes, heavy piano and synth, some Abba-flavored drumbeats, and Motown bass lines."

8. Birthday Suits – Cherry Blue

The Birthday Suits ain’t no loser dogs. Friends and former Sweet J.A.P. bandmates Hideo Takahashi and Matthew Kazama kept their creative energy flowing after the band’s breakup by forming the Birthday Suits, a punk-rock powerhouse known for their explosive live performances and genre-bending style. Both Takahashi and Kazama are of Japanese descent, a welcome breath of fresh air to the punk scene, previously dominated by homogenous stereotypes. Michael Gallucci of clevescene.com described the band’s sound in an announcement for an upcoming show in Cleveland. "Their songs usually start with twisty, bluesy riffs before everything breaks down into a heap of smoldering feedback and mile-a-minute drum snaps." Their latest, Cherry Blue, is the band’s debut album; an instant favorite among critics. Hannah Levin of The Stranger says that the Birthday Suits "exude the sort of punk magnetism that could change a young kid’s life." For fans of Melt Banana, the Dead Kennedys, and Sweet J.A.P.

9. Homegrown (Various Artists) – Silage: Foreclosure & Eviction

Local radio listeners will undoubtedly know the name: Homegrown. The local music show, 10 years strong, ran on KQRS and later DRIVE 105 before becoming a casualty of the airwave wars. In its infancy, Homegrown consisted of one local song, played during Mei Young’s all-request third shifts on KQRS – a tradition that began on October 29, 1996. From there, it grew into a one-hour local music specialty program featuring live performances by local artists that aired on Sunday nights. After over 10 years of cultivating the local music scene and stressing the importance of local music, Homegrown commenced their final broadcast on May 6, 2007 after a fatal radio format flip. Silage: Foreclosure & Eviction is the staff’s Swan Song; a love letter to those who made their ground-breaking radio show possible, and a thank-you to the artists who filled their airtime. The disc features 21 tracks recorded live on Homegrown and a variety of artists and genres. Artists include: Haley Bonar, Brother Ali, Cloud Cult, Little Man, Dosh, MC/VL, Trampled By Turtles, P.O.S., Charlie Parr, and many more. The lingering magic in Studio B will resonate through your speakers as you pay homage to a hometown giant, and rediscover the local artists who make the Twin Cities a booming cultural epicenter.

10. Trampled By Turtles – Live at Lucé

Predominantly bluegrass, slightly sardonic, and definitely youthful – Trampled By Turtles has carved a niche for themselves among the talented and the innovative in the local music scene. The Duluth foursome always manages to captivate concert-goers with their energetic live performances and truly unique stage presence. Live at Lucé was recorded live at Duluth’s Pizza Lucé location and includes tracks from TBT’s first two studio albums: Blue Sky & The Devil and Songs From A Ghost Town. It’s a toe-stompin’ good time!

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Local Top Ten List for week of 3-11-08
Category: Music

Local Top Ten List

1. Brass Kings – Washboard, Rope, and Guitar

The Brass Kings play old-fashioned, stripped-down, acoustic folk and "psychobilly." The latest release, Washboard, Rope, and Guitar, is aptly titled according to their instrumentation. The disc is their second release to date and features thirteen original songs recorded live in the studio. Members Steve Kaul, Mikkel Beckmen, and Brad Ptacek have refined their sound to produce a truly stellar album. Pick it up and stomp your feet!

2. Willie Murphy – Devil in the White House

Willie Murphy is a legendary fixture in the Minneapolis music scene. From his Myspace page, "Willie Murphy, guitar/piano blues man, is one of three charter members of the Minnesota Music Hall of Fame along with Bob Dylan and Prince." Murphy began playing the piano at age four and started writing songs in High School. After graduation, he teamed up with "Spider" John Koerner, with whom he recorded a critically acclaimed album for Elektra Records and toured internationally before the two split to embark on their own creative endeavors. Since then, Murphy founded celebrated 70’s funk group Willie & The Bees, as well as his own record label (Atomic Theory). He has recorded numerous solo albums, including his latest, Devil in the White House, at his own Cockroach Park Studios. As the title suggests, listeners are in for a topical dose of Murphy’s candid brand of blues. Pick one up, just in time to a elect a new devil in the white house!

3. Doomtree – False Hopes

Doomtree is a sensational local hip-hop collective, oozing with talent and love. It’s members share an unwavering penchant for teamwork, support, and artistic expression. Their latest, False Hopes, is not to be confused the respective False Hopes EP’s from members Dessa and Cecil Otter. This False Hopes is a collaboration among all members, and contains the rarities and b-sides that didn’t make the cut on their much anticipated upcoming album. From the group’s website: "So, friend, consider this sack-full of songs not as a true album, but rather a collection of "specials" that didn’t quite fit in with the family. They are all beautiful in their own right, but a few unfortunate idiosyncrasies […] have prevented them from meeting the Doomtree Family Gold Standard and making the proverbial A-team." Each member of Doomtree is multi-talented and brings something special to the table. They are: Cecil Otter (emcee/producer), Dessa (emcee/vocalist), Mike Mictlan (emcee), Sims (emcee), P.O.S. (emcee/producer), Paper Tiger (producer/DJ/graphic designer), Marshall Larada (producer/DJ/visual artist), Lazerbeak (producer/musician), Turbo Nemesis (DJ/Engineer), Emily Bloodmobile (producer), and Tom Servo (producer/DJ). Their combined force is undeniable. Pick up Doomtree’s False Hopes and rejoice in love and hip-hop.

4. Trampled By Turtles – Live at Lucé

Predominantly bluegrass, slightly sardonic, and definitely youthful – Trampled By Turtles has carved a niche for themselves among the talented and the innovative in the local music scene. The Duluth foursome always manages to captivate concert-goers with their energetic live performances and truly unique stage presence. Live at Lucé was recorded live at Duluth’s Pizza Lucé location and includes tracks from TBT’s first two studio albums: Blue Sky & The Devil and Songs From A Ghost Town. It’s a toe-stompin’ good time!

5. Becky Schlegel – For All the World to See

Bluegrass songbird Becky Schlegel is a South Dakota transplant who’s made quite a splash in the Minneapolis music scene since relocating in 1994. Growing up, she learned the intricacies of piano and vocal performance, playing and touring locally with her mother’s band, The Country Benders. After moving to Minnesota, Schlegel took up the guitar and made a name for herself through stellar performances. Since then, she has won multiple Minnesota Music Awards, formed a band (True Blue), and been featured on Garrison Keillor’s celebrated radio show, "A Prairie Home Companion." Her vocal style has been compared to the likes of Alison Krauss. For All the World To See is Schlegel’s fourth CD to date. A must have for local bluegrass fans.

6. Ellis – Break the Spell

Ellis is a singer/songwriter whose haunting vocals are as evocative as her soul-piercing lyrics. A Minneapolis transplant from Texas at age 16, Ellis has had a rich history in the local music scene. After playing with Bobby Llama in the early 90’s, she broke away to focus on her solo career – starting her own label, Rubberneck Records, and making a name for herself around the country. Her latest release, Break the Spell, is her sixth album to date. City Pages’ Michael L. Walsh describes the disc, "Break the Spell is a cathartic, intimate, and ultimately transcendent modern folk record. It’s not trendy, or groundbreaking, or particularly adventurous. What it is is very, very real. It gets to you the way you crave a record to get to you." As an artist, Ellis searches the treasure-trove of her soul for inspiration, rather than tweaking her music to sound more commercial. She explains, "I had the intention to embrace these songs and my own heart in a way that was focused on the effects on the listener. We kept asking ’Does it move us emotionally?’ and tried not to make decisions based on what sounded ’cool’." The themes on the album range from love, loss, and self-discovery to wartime in the Middle East. The title, "Break the Spell," refers to breaking the cycle of negativity we cast upon ourselves throughout our lives. Ellis insists we have the power within ourselves to change. She draws comparisons to Ani DiFranco and Simon & Garfunkel, while maintaining a style all her own. She is most often pigeonholed as a folk artist, but her sound also includes hints of country and rock. Break the Spell is a studio recording that allows for some playful production (Ellis provides her own backing vocals, for instance), but a more stripped-down acoustic version will be sold at her live shows. Pick up Break the Spell and be on your way to audible bliss and emotional introspection!

7. Romantica – America

Romantica is a local band whose genre is best described as Americana, although it encompasses a much broader range of pop, folk, alt.country, and R&B. Lyrically, they’re in a poetic category all their own. From the band’s website: "Romantica manage to deliver an understated heart-to-heart in an envelope of melodic charm and sarcastic wit: too smart to be sentimental, too sweet to be taken too seriously." Frontman Ben Kyle was born and raised in Belfast, Ireland – a biographical anecdote that holds weight in Romantica’s lyrical themes and musical sounds. Kyle met bassist and "multi-instrumentalist" Luke Jacobs in college, and later added percussionist Mark Hedlund to form what Minneapolis music fans now know as Romantica. In 2004, they released their debut album, It’s Your Weakness That I Want, an aptly titled array of instrumentally inventive love songs. 2007’s America is the band’s second studio endeavor, released on 2024 Records. City Pages’ Sarah Askari delivers a succinct description of the new album, "America [is] an album of lush, richly orchestrated pop-folk made rural by twangy pedal steel and keening fiddle parts (courtesy of occasional Golden Smog collaborator Jessy Greene)." For fans of Sufjan Stevens, Johnny Cash, Wilco, and the Replacements.

8. Charlie Parr – 1922 Limited Edition

Folk troubadour, Charlie Parr mixes country with blues, with folk, and with soul. Recorded with an old school sound, Parr evokes serious emotion with a simple strum of his guitar. He currently lives in Duluth with his wife and his two young children. His first album, 1922, illustrates Parr’s progression as an artist. While the original pressing is over and gone, Charlie’s back with a limited edition version to cure your cravings. A must have for fans of Parr, or the genre in general.

9. Pat Donohue – Freewayman

Pat Donohue is a legendary guitarist whose résumé includes a Grammy win, a regular spot on Garrison Keillor’s A Prairie Home Companion, and an impressive collection of testimonials from veteran musicians who admire his talent and drive. Donohue first tried his hand at guitar when he was twelve, taking charge of the craft. From his website: "As a youth, the St. Paul, Minnesota native pestered guitarists playing at Twin Cities coffee houses and blues venues, seeking tips on playing. Borrowing bits and pieces of the styles of finger picking pioneers he admired, he taught himself to play, building a repertoire flavored by Blind Blake, Django Reinhart and Chet Atkins." Years later, Atkins praised Donohue’s talent, saying, "Pat Donohue is one of the greatest finger pickers in the world today." A full-circle honor, indeed. Donohue’s latest, Freewayman, is his ninth album to date. It includes, "14 original and traditional acoustic guitar instrumentals that showcase blues, swing and folk in Pat’s inimitable fingerpicking style," according to his website. Donohue’s story is a testament to the power of personal drive. Pick up Freewayman and ponder the actions you can take to make your dreams come true.

10. Connie Evingson – Little Did I Dream

Minneapolis-based Jazz-vocalist Connie Evingson is known for her worldy recordings. Evingson has quite a laundry list of musical accomplishments – including the 2005-2006 McKnight Artist Fellowship Award for Performing Musicians and a national stage show (Fever, A Tribute to Peggy Lee). Evingson’s latest, Little Did I Dream, is her eighth solo album to date. The disc is a collaboration with songwriter/pianist Dave Frishberg, who wrote all fourteen songs and accompanies Evingson on piano. The title is a reference to the dream-come-true nature of the project for Connie. In her liner notes, she writes: "I’ve been in love with Dave Frishberg’s work forever. Little did I dream that one day I’d get to record an entire album of his songs—with him at the piano." Legendary saxophone player Dave Karr lends his skills, as well – a pairing with Frishberg that began in the 1950’s when the two were friends at the U of M. Part of Evingson’s motivation lies in bringing the two together again. Andrea Canter of jazzpolice.com describes the appeal of Little Did I Dream: "Whether singing Lee or Lennon or Django, Connie Evingson has a voice that is readily identifiable, sure in pitch, just a tad smoky, her articulation always razor sharp even with fast tempos and dense lyrics, making her a perfect medium for the tunes and words of Dave Frishberg." The album also features local musicians Gordon Johnson (bass) and Phil Hey (drums). A must-have for jazz aficionados everywhere!

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