Venue:Sala SimfÃnica del Auditori i Palau de Congressos de CastellÃ(Spain),3-4-5 november


Thurday:

Great Lake Swimmers

Schwarz

The Russian Futurists

Nacho Vegas y las esferas invisibles

Doors open at: 22:00 hrs


Friday:

Alasdair Roberts

12twelve

Hella

Archer Prewitt

Windy & Carl

Lou Barlow

Howe Gelb

Herman Dune & Julie Doiron

Doors open at: 20:30 hrs.


Saturday:

Nisei

Broken Family Band

Final Fantasy

Colleen

Sam Prekop

Animal Collective

Gang Gang Dance

Françoiz Breut

Doors open at: 20:30 hrs.


Organisation:Acuarela,Septiembre Recuerdos

For more information see: www.tannedtin.com




While its intimate and tasteful proposals have already consolidated it as a righteous reference on the music festival scene Tanned Tin celebrate its Seventh edition. This year's terrific listing fully reflects the brilliant outlook of what has become a well-established counterculture event, designed to fit a huge minority: an audience that is into pop culture and the sounds that are conceived in cities such as London, Paris, Tucson or Toronto. As we exit the sweaty and crowded summer season, the city of Castellon provides a perfect backdrop of urban calm for an annual event that has outgrown the “music festival” label to become a cultural forum combining tradition, innovation, classicism and originality.

Tanned Tin's new venue, the Auditori i Palau de Congressos de Castellon is a brand new state of the art complex that offers an outstanding acoustic infrastructure, in which the audience has the guarantee of being comfortably seated while enjoying the music in ideal conditions (not the usual setting for most festivals). The theatre’s design and staging uniquely framing the bands, making each concert a show in its own right

Following the first two editions, in which bands such as Gallon Drunk, Sonic Boom or Jacques exorcised their potential, the 2001 Tanned Tin proved to be vital in building up the festival's current reputation; it brought together bands such as Experience, The Clientele, Piano Magic, Retsin, Sodastream and Labradford, and was awarded third place in Rockdelux magazine's “best Spanish festival” category. The 2002 Tanned Tin kept maintained the standard, inviting Greg Weeks, Damon & Naomi, Camera Obscura, Mark Eitzel, Programme, The Zephyrs, Chris Brokaw, Bertrand Betsch and L'Altra to play. In 2003, we welcomed more first-class guests: Julie Doiron, Matt Elliott, Do Make Say Think, Hood, Early Day Miners and At Swim Two Birds, amongst others, to perform in front of yet another full auditorium. Through the years, and perhaps shining equally as brightly as the rest, Tanned Tin has seen perform some of Spain's very own, namely: Manta Ray, Mastretta, Sr. Chinarro, Refree, Anari, Nacho Vegas, Nosotrash, Lisabo and Migala. Noting, amidst numerous great sessions, the unforgettable collaborations, seeing not only Manta Ray, Nacho Vegas and Thalia Zedek unite on stage but also Viva Las Vegas together with Chris Brokaw, both proving to be exciting and unique experiences. In 2004 the Tanned Tin once again listed a truly amazing roster of bands: the crudeness of Thalia Zedek, Xiu Xiu and Shannon Wright, the musical films of Migala, Polar and Piano Magic, the new generation post-pop of The American Analog Set, the chamber rock of Grupo Salvaje, The New Year and The Decemberists, the extreme sensibility of CocoRosie and Rivulets and the poetical stories of Nacho Vegas & Fernando Alfaro, Darren Hayman and Scout Niblett and 2004 star guest Tara Jane O'Neil. It was the first time that Rivulets, The American Analog Set, The New Year and The Decemberists were brought to Spain.

Its a year later, and as the season’s shift, as does our attention to what promises to be another unique gathering of bands and musicians. For this Autumn’s Tanned Tin Festival a showcase has been drawn up that without doubt will captivate, challenge and inspire. As you can see, we have for you an impressive representation of both international and Spanish bands; bringing to our shores exclusively Alisdair Roberts, Colleen and Howe Gelb but for the first time ever in Spain, the countrified musings of Broken Family Band, New York's Animal Collective, Gang Gang Dance and from California, the Sacramento based oddity, Hella. From Spain we have 12twelve, Nisei, Nacho Vegas y Las Esferas Invisibles and Schwarz, exemplify perfectly Spain's own diverse and exuberant independent music scene. Additionally, but by in no mean ‘in addition’ to the other acts, we welcome Archer Prewitt and Sam Prekop, who will both be appearing on stage together as Sam Prekop, with Archer Prewitt also appearing independently, Françoiz Breut, Final Fantasy, Great Lake Swimmers, Herman Dune together with Julie Doiron, the ethereal Windy & Carl, the Russian Futurists and following his appearance with Dinosaur Jr at this Years Benicassim Festival, this time by himself, Sebadoh and Folk Implosion member, Lou Barlow.





12Twelve


If there is a band that has expressed both restlessness and open-mindedness in the independent music scene, it is 12Twelve. This four piece from Barcelona comprising of Jaume L. Pantaleon (guitars), Jens Neumaier (keyboards, effects and sax), Jose Rosello (drums) and Javier Garcia (bass) take themselves forward through muddy ocean of experimental rock, forward with conviction...Opting for the risky...being innovative, yet focused - Achieving for themselves, what for others would be complex and pretentious. A sound first heard in 1998 when they recorded a demo with David Rodgigez, the leader of the incomparable, Beef. Their astonishing live performance - a lash of experimental rock, abrasive and polyhedron - sunk in wells of uncontrolled distortion, lost in plumes of free jazz, drew the attention of the Boa label, who later signed them. Their first album, Tears Complaints & Spaces (2001), a well rounded, powerful and luxuriously designed album, was met with acclaim, from both critics and other like minded musicians, such as, Ya Te Digo, which they later collaborated with on the album Doppler, released by Astro in 2003. Following this, having entered the Villa de bilbao contest and won, they promptly took their winnings to one of the more distinguished music producers of our time, namely, ex Big Black member Steve Albini, and recorded their latest full length Speritismo(Boa 2003), which, translating accurately their live performance, afforded them the weight and depth aspired to in their earlier recordings. Although their agenda as 12Twelve has clearly been set they are not inhibit from finding new ways of expressing themselves, an example of which is Jauma and Jose’s involvement with the Anticon Rapper come Lyricist Sole. The latest for 12Twelve is their signing to Acuarela. with whom they are soon to release their forthcoming album, recently recorded with Steve Albini. A release that we await with anticipation.


Discography:

“Tears, Complaints & Spaces” (Boa, 2001)
“Doppler” - 12Twelve / YaTe Digo (Astro, 2003)
“Speritismo” (Boa, 2003)


www.soundsinacoma.com/grupo.php?referencia=7




Alasdair Roberts


In times of MP3 and P2P wireless connections, it might seem unfashionable to go to a concert and perhaps pass a demo to your favourite artist. It might be that the channels of communication are different now, that musicians will get to know you through a message board. Forgive me for being glib, but.. if its not broken, why fix it! An approach that at least worked for Alisdair Roberts, having Passed the demo tape of his band Appendix Out on to Will Oldham after a Palace Brothers concert. In 1996 this bearded country sure shooter released the single Ice Age / Pissed With You, the debut from the band that Roberts formed with Dave E. While(bass and violin), together with Louise D(cello) and Eva Peck(drums). It wasn't long until this ruralised, Scottish outfit was caught in the sights of Dan Koretsky of Drag City records, who later signed them, releasing their first album A Rye Bears A Poison. Roberts went on to recorded two more albums, Day Light Saving(1999) and The Night is Advancing(2001), in which there were changes both in line up and style. This however was where Alisdair was to break free, seeing the release of Alisdair Roberts’ first album released on Secretly Canadian Records, The Crook Of My Arm under his own name. Here, the folkish inclinations of Alisdair's earlier recordings continued, but were now embraced fully, with twelve solo guitar and voice versions of Scottish, English and Irish folk songs. In 2003, back in the familiar embrace of Drag City, Roberts returns once more with the release of the album Farewell Sorrow. Alisdair Roberts continues to track the song traditions of his country, creating timeless pop jewels dipped in folk and country. We’ve seen him collaborate with Will Oldham and Songs Ohio. This time however, having abandoned the name Appendix out, he stands alone. A good opportunity to focus on an artist who flawlessly pictures the human condition.


Discography:

Appendix Out

“Ice Age / Pissed” SG (Palace, 1996)
“The Rye Bears a Poison” (Drag City,1997)
“Daylight Saving” (Drag City, 1999)
“The Night is Advancing” (Drag City, 2001)
Alisdair Roberts

“The Crook of my Arm” (Secretly Canadian)
“Farewell Sorrow” ( Drag City, 2003)
“No Earthly Man” (Drag City, 2005)


www.alasdairroberts.com



Animal Collective


David Porter and Noah Lennox started Animal Collective in New York back in the year 2000. To say that this is not the usual band, might perhaps be perceived as an invalid fiction, however, when members opt to rename themselves ‘Panda Bear’ and ‘Geologist’,one must consider further their status within the realms of what is seen to be ‘usual'. Five years ago they released, on their own label (Animal), Spirit they’re Gone, Spirit They’re Vanished...A mix of psychedelia and electronic experimentation...that, although diverse and chaotic, maintains a strong pop ethic. Imagine if you will a cross between Nick Drake, Syd Barrett and Brian Eno. A year later they released Danse Manatee on the label Catsup Plate together with a Documentary of their tour with Black Dice. In 2003 Paw Tracks released the acclaimed Here Comes the Indian LP. It didn't take long for news of their success with this release to reach Fat Cat records, who promptly signed them, rescuing from the vaults their previous two albums, re-releasing them on a double CD - A marriage bridging the pan-Atlantic divide and so freeing up their earlier releases to be heard by both shores. Their fame grew, as did their thirst for new challenges, be it rescuing the legendary Vashti Bunyan or recording split singles with David Grubbs. Sung Tungs was released in 2004, exposing a slightly more easy going, more accessible sound than in their earlier works...a sound more clearly defining there already present folkish sensibilities, but without loosing the magic and mystery of their previous recordings. This time however as a duo, Avey Tare and Panda Bear, who were later joined, once more by the other ‘Animals’, Geologist and Deaken AKA Brian Weitz and Conrad Deakon for the release of their latest effort Feels, reveal a new, rhythmic, sonic density not seen in their previous recordings. Their music may not provide you with the reassuring, geographical landscape that you are accustomed to, but as the Animal Collective they are destined to roam through new and unfamiliar territory that if you allow yourself the time to observe, will remain with you.


Discography:

“Here Comes The Indian” (Paw Tracks, 2003)
“Spirit They’re Gone, Spirit They've Vanished / Danse Manatee” (Fat Cat, 2003)
“Sung Tongs” (Fat Cat, 2004
“Feels” (Fat Cat, 2005)


www.paw-tracks.com




Archer Prewitt


They say that looks are deceiving. in Archer Peewitt's case however, this sentiment goes much further. His unassuming appearance, that of man that one might pass unnoticed in the street, hides a very different truth. The truth being that he is one of the most skilled musicians and perfect pop writers of the last few years. He has demonstrated his skills playing with the relentless Sam Prekop, both with The Sea and Cake and as a solo musician - Whoever has listened to Sam Prekop's The Fawn (thrill Jockey, 1997) and his latest Who is Your New Professor, or is familiar with the sound of John McEntyre's Soma studios will be only too familiar with Archer’s talent and ability to provide, both as a collaborator and as a musician in his own right. This is precisely why his solo carrier looks so healthy. His debut In The Sun (Hi-Ball, 1997), was followed two years later by White Sky(Carrot Top). Although, already promising, things started to look brighter with a move that took him to Thrill Jockey records, who were to release his third album Three(2003. His latest album Wilderness, although tender and loose is meticulously arranged, ‘meticulous’ and ‘arranged’, but not predictable...Ready to surprise at any moment.


Discography:

“Three” (Thrill Jockey, 2003)
“Wilderness” (Thrill Jockey, 2005)

www.thrilljockey.com/bandpage.html?artistnum=44




The Broken Family Band


The Broken Family Band is considered by many to be “the best country band this side of the Atlantic” a description that at least might not be the most accurate definition of there music. The authors of beautiful and classic songs, faithful to the traditions of folk, rock, blues and country, they retaining throughout reciting the woes of women, alcohol and defeat a healthy sense of humour - They say that the best humour has a sadness to it, in which case you should indeed consider their music humorous and inherently tragic. They started their career with the label Snowstorm, published a few singles and the full length Cold Water Songs. A year later, in 2001 they released the mini-album Jesus Songs together with their latest album Welcome Home, Loser, on Track & Field. The Broken Family Band have been quoted to have said that “If we use the word Jesus in our lyrics to much, its simply because we feel that the word is important to the song - different words have different uses or as in our case desired impact...if you are offended by this, then please get in touch with us!”. With statements such as this, its no wonder that the band find themselves likened to the likes of Clem Snide...As only a few people are capable of creating such beautiful, complex, ironic and humourous explorations of the human nature.


Discography:

“Cold Water Songs” (Snowstorm, 2003)
“Jesus Songs” (Track & Field, 2004)
“Welcome Home, Loser” (Track & Field)


www.thebrokenfamilyband.com



Colleen


There are many different ways to confront a melody. There are some that do this simply with a guitar and a few chords. There are others who pretend to draw lines from powerful chords and distortion. There are some that deconstruct micro-sounds with laptops in order to recreate small imploding universes. Cecile Schott however, chooses with conviction to express herself, searching her imagination with sample based hypnotic repetitions that culminate in simple and clear compositions. Her Career started with the single Babies(2002) on the french label Active Suspension during which time saw her appear on various associated compilations, on such labels as Clapping Music, Evenement and List. One of her best moments came with the signing of the label Leaf, home of Caribou, Boymerang, Efterklang and Asa-Chang & Junry, to name a few. In 2003 she released Everyone Alive Wants Answers. On her next album Golden Morning Breaks, she abandons the samples, choosing to focus on playing each and every one of the instruments, aiming to bring the performances forward...closer to the audience. There are people that compare her to CocoRosie, or even Susumu Yokota, others see her songs as possible instrumental versions of Bjorks ‘Vespertine’ or even a more naively worked outtake from Flying Saucer attacks, Further. But the truth is that with such references quality is assured.


Discography:

“Everyone Alive Wants Answers” (Leaf, 2003)
“Golden Morning Breaks” (Leaf, 2005)


www.colleenplays.org




Final Fantasy



Final Fantasy according to Final Fantasy is, “One: Is the music created when Owen plugs his violin into his loop pedal. Two: Songs of romance, fiction,ghosts, guilt and cooking. And finally, Three: A tribute to its name-sake, the video game – Final Fantasy. Its is an amalgam of capitalism, swords, drama and Japan formed by two people, Leon Taheny(on drums) and Owen Pallet, who despite his youth has already established a brilliant career. A member of Les Mouches, having recorded and released only last year the album ‘Your More Worth For Me Than 1,000 Christians’, he is also the man responsible for the string arrangements performed and recorded for bands such as Do Make Say Think, The Jim Guthrie Band and Arcade Fire. Later dedicating a song to Arcade Fire entitled ‘This Is the Dream of Win and Regine’, aping DNTL’s song ‘This is The Dream of Evan Chan’. His solo debut, ‘Has a Good Home’, Released by Blocks Recording Club in the US and by TomLab in Europe has seen him compared to the likes of Andrew Bird of Patrick Wolf. Final Fantasy however – with lyrics... original and charmed, violins, insidious and reaching...must not be mistaken for anything but unique.


Discography:

“Has a Good Home” (Tomlab, 2005)


www.finalfantasyeternal.com




Françoiz Breut


It seems like yesterday when Francoiz Bruet helped contrubuted to the vocals on Dominique A’s La Memoire Neuve album. Howeever, ten years have passed – two albums later we see her with her third offering Une Saison Volee (Green Ufo’s, 2005). Her acclaimed, Self titled solo debut was released in 1997, on the label Lithium and was recorded and produced by her ex partner Dominque A. Three years later Dominique A, Yann Tiersen and Katerine collaborated with Francoiz on her second album Vingt a Trente Mille(Labels, 2000) a more exuberant and eclectic with luxurious orchestrations, and instant hits that opposed the monochromatic density of her first album. Her third album gatherscompositions made by different musicians, such as Jerome Miniere, Philippe Poitier, Herman Dune, of course, Dominique A, and the spanish band Souvenir, also featuring Joey Burns from Calexico. The recording of this abum has been an instictive process, in which the influences of each contributer can clearly be heard. Francoiz has been given many songs spontaniously, but refuses however, to record any song but those that she has specifically requested from the artist of her choice. Miraculously, where many collaborations fail, her this union worked perfectly. At Tanned Tin this year she will be a joined by Luc Rambo and Boris, fellow contributers form the last album, together with the exceptional drummer, Frank Baya. It would be a mistake to miss.


Discography:

“Francoiz Breut” (Lithium, 1997)
“Vingt a Trente Mille Jours” (Labels, 2000)
“Une Saison Volee” (Green UFO’s, 2005)


francoiz.breut.free.fr




Gang Gang Dance


New york has always been the birthing ground for new and exciting music....Last year the scene shone with a new, particularly bright intensity. Remove from your mind if you will all the obvious stereotypes for just one minute...See bands such as Excepter, Mouthos and Animal Collective ...See also, one new to the census, Gang Gang Dance. The story begins when Tim DeWit ex collaborator of Neil Michale Hagarty and Cass McCombs, meets Brian DeGraw, with whom he had once played with in bands such as, Cranium, Ssab Songs and Angelblood. Other members include ex Ssab Songs member Josh Diamond and ex Angelblood member Liz Bougatsos. 2003 saw their first, self-released offering. This, the summary of 12 hours of gathered, previously recorded music, limited to just 100CDR's, was sold out within two weeks. The following year they released their first full length on the label Fusetron, expressing once again their eclecticism and broad ranging aesthetic. Their sonic mantras - widely rhythmic and hypnotic, gathered influences of all kinds, mixing, amidst the ethnic scent of Liz’s vocals, traces of dub, funk and experimental rock. This year God’s Money has been released by The Social Registry label who has reaffirmed them as one of the biggest musical sensations of the season. When a band is so close to Can or Pole, the Cure or Animal Collective you are sure that they are on the right path. In short - Funny, evasive, complex music to dance to.


Discography:

“Gang Gang Dance” (Fusetron, 2004)
“God’s Money” (The Social Registry, 2005)


www.thesocialregistry.com/artist_pages/ggd.html




Great Lake Swimmers


Ask the average man what springs to mind when he thinks of Canada and you’ll no doubt be delivered mutterings of Michael Moore, South Park and Canada’s unofficial ‘Princess’ Celine Dion. On the other hand, the more enlightened among us may talk of labels such as Constellation, Arts & Crafts, and will admit to liking God Speed You Black Emperor, Julie Doiron and Broken Social Scene. If addicted to avant-guarde you’ll be talking about Alien8, Intro_version and will confirm that Mitchel Akiyama is god. Some however will refer to Neil Young as Canada’s most valuable export. A sentiment that Tony Dekker will no doubt agree with, understanding the influence on Great Lake Swimmers by artists such as Red House Painters, Palace and Gram Parsons as well as Neil Young. In 2003 Great Lake Swimmers recorded their self titled debut in the seclusion of an abandoned barn. Two years later, Misra, the home of bands such as Destroyer, The Mendoza Line, Will Johnson (as well as his solo project, Centro-matic and South Son Gabrial) released, in the US, their first full length recording Bodies & Minds, thereby reinforcing the trajectory of the band. Dekker narrates with a well aimed pen, stories of redemption, nostalgia, broken hearts and rural, enchanted landscapes. For this, serving himself from an accurately plucked guitar, helpless pianos and precise arrangements. There are people that, due to the softness and intimacy of the songs that compare Great Lake Swimmers to Nick Drake, while others compare his falsetto to Neil Young and Mark Kozelek. A description non too far from the truth. Some people make themselves heard, or understood, by simply raising their voice, while others penetrate more deeply through whispers. And if those whispers resound like hammers on an anvil, then the words whispered echo louder than words shouted.


Discography:

“Great Lake Swimmers” (Weewerk, 2003)
“Bodies & Minds” (Misra, 2005)


www.greatlakeswimmers.com




Hella


Shout at the top of your voice or unless you have something worth while to say, keep your mouth shut! Is this Hella’s philosophy?...Maybe. You can see however that these two Sacramento based Californians refuse to beat around the bush...acting with fury and speed and somehow, despite their being only two of them – drums, Electric guitar and vocals, they manage to project forth a raucous battery of sound without lacking. They started to rehearse in the spring of 2001 and in less than one year had their first record out. Their debut, ‘Hold Your Horse Is’, was released on 5 Rue Christine, home of other genius heterodox bands such as Deerhoof an Xiu Xiu. Since the beginning their music has consistently shown unchanging characteristics - possessing a sense of irony and humour evident in song such as, ‘Biblical Violence’ and ‘The First Day of Earth Without Jimi Hendrix’ and ‘Fucked’...to name but a few. With a sense of self assurance, constantly positioned within the math rock scene, their music is a relentless abrasion - the guitar scratching obsessively, both minimal and repetitive with the drum kit, somehow managing to remain intact. Their confidence on stage is such that their album Live (Sick Room, 2003), was indeed recorded live, in one sitting. If after their show your ears are buzzing or that maybe you have taken injury to a flying drum stick, note that you read it here first....you had been warned!


Discography:

“Hold You Horse Is” (5 Rus Christine, 2002)
“Total Bugs Bunny on Wild Bass” (Narnak, 2003)
“Live” (Sick Room, 2003)
“The Devil Isn't Red” (5 Rue Christine, 2004)
“Church Gone Wild / Chirpin Hard” (Suicide Squeeze, 2005)


www.hellaband.com




Herman Düne & Julie Doiron


How is it that one can admire separately the career of two artist only to see them come together, becoming intertwined in a surprising but logical way. The Swiss brothers, David-Ivar and Andre Herman Dune stepped into the spotlight in the year 2000 with their debut, released on the label Prohibited. Heavily influenced by country music, comprising of vocals and guitars and the minimal drumming of their then drummer, Ome. The following year was to see the arrival of a new drummer, Nerman, who was quickly put to work on the recording of their next record, the album Switzerland Heritage, an album that was to be the first release on the label Track & Field. Julie Doiron’s initial advances into writing and recording started with one of the most dearly-loved bands of the early nineties, namely, Eric’s Trip. The Canadian then embarked on a solo career, recording two beautiful full lengths: Julie Doiron and The Wooden Star (winning her the Jun music award – one of the most important prize's in her country) and Desormais, her recording rendered in her native language, french. The Dunes and Julie met for the first time in Paris during recording of Julies last record Goodnight Nobody, a meeting that was to incite a collaboration that at first would seem wrong, but that in reality worked perfectly. A few months ago, the more bearded of this unlikely union(the Dunes) again together with Julie, released their latest album, Not on Top, recorded by Richard Formby, ex-Spacemen 3 and Dakota Suite Member. Seeing the four together on stage will fr sure be an unforgettable experience.


Discography:

Herman Dune

“Turn off the Light” (Prohibited, 2000)
“Switzerland Heritage” (Prohibited, 2001)
“Mas Cambios” (Track & Field, 2002)
“Not on Top” (Track & Field)

Julie Doiron

“Julie Doiron and The Wooden Stars” (Jagjawugar, 2000)
“Desormais” (Jagjawugar, 2001)
“Goodnight Nobody” (Acuarela, 2004)


www.hermandune.com
www.juliedoiron.com




Howe Gelb


To have been writing and recording great music for almost thirty years is perhaps no mean feat, but to have done so with a distinct perseverance of thought and authenticity is almost unheard of. A worthy footnote to a man, that in the early eighties moved to Tucson, Arizona, and started a band called the Giant Sandworms, to which, despite a few line up changes have been releasing albums since 1985. Their debut, Valley of Rain recorded with bassist, Scott Berger together with his now, sadly deceased friend Rainer Ptecek, saw the introduction of what remains to be an unstoppable career, going on to complete three more albums of desertic, dreamy country-rock with The ballad of a Thin Line Man, Storm and The Love Songs. During the nineties Howe and Scott were joined by the exceptional drummer, John Convertino, and double bassist, Joey Burns...A line up, affording the band a new, solid sound that unfortunately, with the success of John and Joey’s solo career as Calexico, was to be short lived..a division of priorities that later resulted in the band splitting up. Gelb is also the man behind the somewhat darker musings of Friends of Dean Martinez and Blacky Ranchette, having also set up his own record label, Ow Om through which he has released countless numbers of his solo albums and bootlegs. By himself or with friends...With a disc-man and his guitar, or with keyboards and drums, his magnetic presence and ability to captivate his audience, be it as he swaps effortlessly between chorus’s, his guitar for a piano or as he flirts with a distortion pedal as though it were a resented lover, Gelb’s ability to ply himself under your skin is not only a testament to his almost thirty years of experience, but to his unfaltering desire to continue both as a live musician and writer of great records.


Discography:

Giant Sand

“Valley of Rain” (Zippo, 1985)
“The Love Songs” (Homwstead, 1988)
“Center of the Universe” ( Restless, 1992)
“Chore of Enchantment” (Thrill Jockey, 2000)
“Its Al...Over the Map” (Thrill Jockey, 2004)

Howe Gelb

“Confluence” (Thrill Jockey, 2001)
“The Listener” (Thrill Jockey, 2003)


www.giantsand.com




Lou Barlow


There was a time when band’s like Dinosaur Jr, Sebadoh and Pavement, some of the biggest band’s of the indie scene were the pioneers and and inspiration to us all. One thing is for sure, and that is that the current independent music wouldn't be the same without them...a heritage revered with respect and admiration. Lou Barlow happened to be in two of these seminal bands, starting his career in Dinosaur Jr, together with J Mascis and Murph who reunited this summer, performing at the Benicassim festival in Spain. When the band split, Barlow together with Jason Lowenstein(bass), Eric Gaffney(drums) started his own project, Sebadoh, managing to match if not top the success of his previous band with the brilliant Bubble & Scrape and Bakesale, of which were both released on the legendary Sub Pop label in 1993 and 1994 respectively. During this period Barlow continued to produce independently of his Sebadoh collaborators, with John Davis in his other project The Folk Implosion, demonstrating concisely his development as one of the most coherent an prolific songwriters of his generation. To have Lou Barlow present at the festival here in Spain this year was a privilege and it is the duty of any self respecting fan of music to appreciate in which ever incarnation, Barlow's music - To track his career is not only to retrace the steps of a brilliant songwriter but to trace above all a fundamental part of modern music.


Discography:

Dinosaur Jr – “Your Living All Over Me”(SST, 1987)
Sebadoh – “Bubble & Scrape”(Sub Pop, 1993)
Sebadoh – “Bakesale”(Sub Pop, 1994)
The Folk Implosion – “Dare to be Surprised”(Communion, 1997)
Lou Barlow – “Lou Barlow and His Sentridoh”(City Slang, 1995)
Lou Barlow – “Emoh”(Merge, 2005)


www.loobiecore.com



Nacho Vegas y Las Esferas Invisibles


To think that Nacho Vegas started his career in bands such as Eliminator Jr, Manta Ray, collaborating with Diabologum, Corcobado and Migala, seems like a distant memory now. He left Manta Ray and joined writer and film maker Ramon Lluis Bande in the project Diariu, a project in which they chose express the importance of their Asturian heritage. His solo debut Actos Inexplicables(Limbo Starr, 2001) revealed a new,committed songwriter, unreservedly likened to such luminaries as Dylan, Cohen and Townes Van Zandt. From then on and with every new album he has quite rightly positioned himself as one of Spain's most important songwriters. His first offerings were, although explosive, slightly scattered - a lacking, answered to with the coherent and memorable double CD follow up, Cajas de Musica Dificiles de Parar(Limbo Starr, 2003). It seems Nacho Vegas becomes more comfortable with each day that passes, honing his craft firstly as a musician, but moreover as a skilled lyricist - drawing on a semi biographical world and imagination, both fertile and colourful that with his new album Desaparezca Aqui - a more well rounded incarnation of his previous recordings, will be seen here this year with his band Las Esferas Invisibles. It wont be an exaggeration to conclude that Nacho Vegas is one of our favourite cult figure heads, an artist that will continue to be so for years to come.


Discography:

“Actos inexplicables” (Limbo Starr, 2001)
“Cajas de música difíciles de parar” (Limbo Starr, 2003)
“Desaparezca aqui” (Limbo Starr, 2005)


www.limbostarr.com/nachovegas.html



Nisei


The translation of the word Nisie refers to both an American or Canadian born of Japanese immigrant parents, and to the sons of refuges that emigrated to America during the second world war. A typcast that Sooyoung Park and William Shin, members of Seam, claimed as their own, naming one song Nisei Fight Song that appeared on their last album The Pace is Glacial (Touch & Go). We are not sure if Nisei conciously adopted this name as a sign of respect for the North Carolina based outfit or not. Either way, i’m sure that if Seam were to here their music, they, if not at least smile knowingly, would be glad of the association, given the closeness of their aesthetic to the output of such labels as Touch and Go, Dischord and Quarterstick - Intricate guitar work, powerful bass and explosive drumming...This is slow hardcore music, music reminiscent of Slint, June of 44 and Shellac. Complex, permanently fraught musical strucutres interleaved with schizophrenic spoken word vocals, juxtaposed...Both restrained then distressed.


Discography:

“More Light” (Bcore, 2004)


www.nisei.cjb.net




The Russian Futurists


Matthew Adam Hart once said that “I make pop because thats the way my heart feels, i dont call it art, this shows that when i write i have some other kind of reason to do so”. Without getting into an eternal discussion such as the one set in Nick Hornby’s “High Fidelity”(did he listen to pop music because he was sad, or as he sad because he listed to pop music?). I recall the words of a friend, “while movies are clearly restricted to peoples age, why arent there the same boundaries of protection to prevent the young and inocent falling in love music that as in films, depict the full spectrum of emotions and desires”: Love and loss...Break-ups and broken hearts. Having this in mind its no surprise that music in this context can provide the balm through which, at times is necessary to treat our ‘wounds’. Demons of which Matthew Hart, laptop and keyboards to hand explores whole heartedly. The debut of this resident Canadian (Peterborough, Ontario), The Method of Modern Love was released together with his second album Lets Get Ready to Crumble, on the Upper Class label in 2001. The spanish distributor of that label, Green Ufo’s, fell in love with their witty, lyrical, pop electronis, hearing in their music echos of The Magnetic Fields’ Stephen Merritt and so decided to release both albums in a special eddition box-set, a move that given the success of this release, saw them tour Europe earlier this year, and the release of their third album Our Thinckness. As stated there are certain pop sensibilities that are inescapable and captivating...this is certainly the case with the Rusian Furutists, who should, or should i say, can’t be missed.


Discography:

“Let’s Get Ready to Crumble & The Method of Modern Love”(Green Ufos, 2003)
“Our Thickness”(Green Ufos, 2005)


www.russianfuturists.com



Sam Prekop


Everybody wonders that, A: Why there are so many bands that come out of Chicago, and B: What is it that they have in the water over there that nourishes such a vibrant and thriving scene...Is it that their supply is being tampered with at the source? When asked, a local jazz musician reveals the sober truth, answering: “well, its far more simple...there’s an abundance of cheap, city centre rehearsal spaces, and lots of venues willing to let bands play for next to nothing, if not for free”. According to this man, in Chicago there exists an unspoken contract - If new bands are given a stage and those providing that stage are continually being provided with great bands, then the balance is reached, and the scene thrives. Since 1994, with their self titled debut on Thrill Jockey, The Sea & Cake, armed with the instrumental capacity of Tortoise, possessing too, a likened predisposition to experimentation, The Sea & Cake have fused generously such elements and ideas into a unique, global pop concept that was seen in their 1997 release, Fawn. The real melodic genius however was, for two members - Archer Prewitt and Sam Prekop, withheld for future solo albums. Sam Prekop's self titled solo debut was released in 1999 on Thrill Jockey – a small wonder, noting influences that range from jazz, classic pop and bossanova, comprising also, shy electronic incursions with subtle, yet palatial arrangements. His new album, Who’s Your New Professor, was released this year, songs proving once again, that he together with collaborators Jim O Rourke of Gastr Del Sol, Sonic Youth etc...Chad Taylor of Chicago Underground Duo, Josh Abram of Town & County, Archer Prewitt and John McEntire are one of a kind.


Discography:

“Sam Prekop” (Thrill Jokey, 1999)
“Who’s Your New Professor” (Thrill Jockey, 1999)


www.thrilljockey.com/bandpage.html?artistnum=29




Schwarz


As London is to the UK, or New York is to the east coast, Its an unfortunate reality that the Spanish music industry tends to notice first and foremost, bands that originate from either Barcelona, or Madrid. There are of course always exceptions. The apogee of the Hip Hop scene in cities such as Zaragoza, Malaga and Seville is no exception...Scenes that although estranged are both meaningful and important. But this is the exception, to be ‘off the radar’, so to speak - isolated and attempting to forge your own path as a serious indie, psychedelic, or pop band and be noticed is not easy. Let’s say that the usual channels of music distribution have lightened their finger from the pulse - a lot of good music being created every day, passing by unnoticed. They say that true wisdom is born of solitude - to be isolated and thinking for yourself...Which is of course the flip side to the already highlighted woes of the ‘outsider’ artists. To be sheltered from the self perpetuating star system of the meet-and-greet fashionista, is perhaps what some might consider, a blessing! Cue Schwarz. This trio, formed by Alfonso Alfonso, Juanma Martinez and Cesar Verdu have remained faithful to their own sound. Since their debut These Songs Mean Nothing (Greyhead, 1998), they have plotted their path with a reliable compass maintaining a slow but sure pace. A path illuminated by their ideas of Psychedelia, krautrock yet winding its way firmly though a distinct indie-rock setting. Their highly acclaimed album Hard Listening, released in 2000, caught the attention of both the media and audience on a national level, a stir that saw them later cross paths with Manta Ray who they then worked with on the album Heptagono - a unique recording released on Astro. Their latest two albums Cheesy and Arty Party complete a catalogue of singles and EP’s, available now on vinyl. The Schwarz aesthetic can be defined by three adjectives: Hypnotic, Energetic and Authentic.


Discography:

“These Songs Mean Nothing” (Greyhead, 1998)
“Hard Listening” (Sandwich, 2000)
Schwarz & Manta Ray – “Heptagono” (Astro, 2001)
“Cheesy” (Astro, 2002)
“Arty Party” (Astro, 2004)


www.schwrz.com



Windy & Carl


It is more often the case that a musicians persona contradicts completely the content of their music. A statement that for Windy & Carl at least, cannot be applied. With Carl Hultgren and Windy Weber what is taken from their immediate environment, is expressed with sincerity and sympathy that with such titles as Drowning of Sound for example, abridge concisely the essences of who they are as people. With a careful nod to the British shoe-gazing phenomenon of circa 1988 – 1994, this duo, haling from Dearborn Michigan, possess a repertior, that although sporadic, incorporates extended litanies of calmly extracted bass, armoured further by a sunken yet buoyant suspension of delays and reverberation. Their story began with Carl, his guitar and a few effects pedals, with which the first recording, Portal was released in 1994 on his own label, Blue Flea. Having met Windy soon after, both bass and vocals were added – providing a bass, uncharted and weightless, together with heavenly, ethereal vocals, that the lineaments of which prove to be more a choral atmosphere than a distinct and direct vocal. For two years Windy & Carl were a four piece, seeing Brendda Markovich on percussion and Randall Nieman on guitar and keyboards. Nieman was to leave in order to pursue his own project Fuxa and it wasn't long after this that Markovich was to part company, leaving once more Carl and windy to continue with the recording of Depths and Consciousness, released on Kranky in 2001. In 2002 their previously uncharted back catalogue of singles, rarities and unreleased versions were gathered and released in a 3-CD box set. Having enveloped themselves once more in a vale of silence, Windy & Carl return again with their latest EP Dedications to Flea (Brainwashed Handmade Series) - A tribute of which, rendered in memory to their deceased dog, encompasses two extended tracks, Ode to Dog and Sketch to flea. The sum of 37 minutes, these recordings negate their usual form, but in this instance, with a new, added sense of exploration - a marked change in Windy & Carl's sound, hinting perhaps to an extended agenda of intent that will hopefully see them spending a lot more time both in the studio and on stage.


Discography:

“Portal” (Blue Flea, 1994)
“Drowning of Sound” (Blue Flea, 1995)
“Antarctica – The Bliss Out Series Vol. 2” (Darla, 1997)
“Depths” (Kranky, 1998)
“Windy & Carl & The Lothars” (Blue Flea, 2000)
“Consciousness” (Kranky, 2001)


brainwashed.com/wc