through the eyes of a shrimp and the ears of a human

Mantis Shrimp
Joshua Tillman began his music career as the drummer for the Philadelphia-based band Saxon Shore until 2004. Tillman then moved to Seattle and began opening for Damien Juardo and started making solo albums on CD-Rs and handing them out at shows. With is two solo records issued by Keep Recordings and a third from Fargo Records he then joined the band Fleet Foxes, as the drummer. Tillman left the band this Januray and started work on his new moniker Father John Misty. His new album Fear Fun was released this past May. I especially like the video for the song "Hollywood Cemetery Sings" because it features the beautiful (well she's sort of creepy looking in this video) Aubrey Plaza. Also known as April Ludgate from Parks And Recreation.
Father John Misty - Hollywood Forever Cemetery Sings


I decided recently started watching Battlestar Galactica again. I decided that it is time to finally get through the series. Not because I am bored with it, but because I have other series I want to start watching. I once again have to reiterate how great that show is. Seriously it's a lot more than just spaceships and robots. Don't get me wrong there is a lot of that, but it's got so much drama going on and the characters are interesting and deep. Oh. and the plot twists, my Gods (thats a Battlestar joke), so good. Princess Chelsea gets it. You should get Princess Chelsea.
Princess Chelsea - Frack


I was listening to WYCE's Radiolab podcast today and they were talking about color. I learned that the Mantis Shrimp has 16 color receptors, where humans have only 3. This means that That shrimp can see way more colors than what we can. It was really interesting. At the end of the show they played this amazing cover song written by James Perrotto. The song was first recorded in 1959 by DeWayne Blackwell but became popular that same year by a band called the Fleetwoods.
Busman's Holiday - Mr.Blue (With Erin Tobey)


Frank Ocean is a member of hip hop crew Odd Future. He has been a ghostwritter for acts like Brandy and John Legend and was featured on the Jay-Z & Kanyes West album Watch The Throne. He just released a solo album called channel Orange and from the buzz that I have been hearing this is definitely an album to pick up. It's filled with chilled out soulful R&B, with intelligent and creative lyrics that you normally wouldn't come to expect from a modern day R&B act. I had the chance to hear a few tracks off of the album and I am surely going to pick this up when I get a chance, Gives me a reason to cash in my iTunes gift card. I knew I was saving it for something special.
Frank Ocean - Bad Religion


I randomly came across this website that linked to tons of small bands and their bandcamp pages. I went crazy grabbing up any free stuff I could find. One of the finds was this band called Sledding With Tigers. I was going to pass them over but a tiger is my favorite animal, so I thought why not. Well I am really glad I decided to do so because this band is great. There is something that I love about Folkish sounding music and angsty lyrics. It makes you want to get drunk and sing every word from the top of your lungs. This band will make you want to do just that. If you are a fan of Defiance, OH, The Ghost Mice or Andrew Jackson Jihad, grab a sled and go downhill with these cats. If you like this song head over to their bandcamp page where you will find a SWEET synth pop version of this song. Oh by the way, they are super nice people...see next blurb.
Sledding With Tigers - Homeless


I did something I usually don't do which is add a band on facebook and tell them how much I like them. I added Sledding With Tigers, and let them know I really dug their band, and that I would spread the word about them in Michigan. They said they really liked Michigan and also sent me this link. Which I like just as much. Do these bands a solid and check them out. If you like them let them know, go to their shows if they are in your area, or buy their music if you can.
Spoonboy - All The Kids In Michigan

The letter Q A.K,A, the second lonliest letter

The letter Q is going to be all videos. Why? Because, there aren't many bands that start with Q that aren't well known. So with this "Q"uandry I "Q"uit my "Q"uest to fill my "Q"uota of downloadable tunes, but I am "Q"uite certain you will enjoy this "Q"ueue of "Q"uality videos. After this sentence I will "quickly" stop this ""Q"uaint use of "Q"uotations and remain "Q"uiet from any further "Q"uirky "Q"uips.

Before she was an actress on TV, A spokesperson for Cover Girl, or a star on the big screen, Queen Latifah was a Hip Hop rapper, and a pretty skilled rapper at that. It's quite an easy thing to forget. I know I did.
Queen Latifah - U.N.I.T.Y.


I wish I had a time machine. I'd go back to the late 60's and early 70's when Rock and Roll was being born. It was exciting, dangerous, and fresh. You knew that you were seeing something revolutionary when watching a band. Quicksilver Messenger Service isn't widely known, but it's not super unknown either. Though the band was never as successful as acts, like Jefferson Airplane or The Grateful Dead, they did play a large role in creating the psychedelic rock genre. The name is one that is unique and hard to forget. Here is a quote I found on Wikipedia from guitarist John Cipollina on the creation of the band name:

"Jim Murray and David Freiberg came up with the name. Me and Freiberg were born on the same day, and Gary and Greg were born on the same day, we were all Virgos and Murray was a Gemini. And Virgos and Geminis are all ruled by the planet Mercury. Another name for Mercury is Quicksilver. And then, Quicksilver is the messenger of the Gods, and Virgo is the servant, so Freiberg says 'Oh, Quicksilver Messenger Service'."

Quicksilver Messenger Service - Mona


I first heard of Question through the South By South West web site. This was not the song I first heard, he has a great song called In My Chevy that I wanted to post. However since there wasn't a great video for the song, I chose this instead. If your wondering, yes I dance like a white boy quite frequently.


I have posted a song from Quantic before no my Golden Shores & Red Shoulders mix. You probably heard his music before on an iPod commercial. This is one I have been waiting to feature for quite a while. The Latin flair and tropical groove will have you craving to be somewhere hot in no time flat. I would also suggest the work he did with Alice Russell. She is a great singer and the smooth sounds make for some purely enjoyable listening.
Quantic and his Combo Barbaro - Un Canto A Mi Tierra


A dark classic that never gets old.
Queensryche - Silent Lucidity

Su-hu-mer Nia-hights

So as promised here is the first "summer night" mix titled We Only Come Out At Night: A RopBop Summer Night Mix. I took the name of a Smashing Pumpkins song, which was going to be included in this mix but, I couldn't find anywhere to fit in in the flow of the mix. I also recently discovered that I can make an embedded playlist. that way you can preview the mix before you decide if you wan it. I had something similar set up where I linked to Youtube videos, but this is much easier for me, and for you. Enjoy!


We Only Come Out At Night: A RopBop Summer Night Mix

01. Shimmering Stars - Sun's Going Down
02. The Radio Dept. - David
03. Damien Jurado - Nothing is the News
04. Kid Cudi - The Mood
05. Gold & Youth - Time To Kill
06. Hum - Stars
07. We Were Promised Jetpacks - Quiet Little Voices
08. The Promise Ring - A Picture Postcard
09. My Morning Jacket - First Light
10. Herman Dune - My Baby is Afraid of Sharks
11. Ben Howard - Old Pine
12. Said The Whale - Howe Sounds
13. St. Vincent And The National - Sleep All Summer
14. The Microphones - I felt Your Size
15. Karen O and the Kids - Hideaway
16. Little Wings - Look At What The Light Did Now
17. Rouge Wave - Eyes
18. Toe - Goodbye (Feat. Toki Asako)
19. Maxence Cyrin - Where Is My Mind Piano (Pixies Cover)

The letter P and a whole lot of free

Paleo has a pretty interesting "how I got to where I am" story. To make is short and sweet it goes like this. Kid tires of low level job decides to write music. Kid becomes broke and lives out of his car while traveling around trying to get gigs. Kid decides to write a song a day, with a specific set of rules. Kid succeeds, gets record deal. Kid becomes a man along the journey. And what a man this is. You can listen to his song diary and view the lyrics to each song on his website. Make sure to stop by Partisan Records to pick up his two releases as well (click on the band name below it'll take you right there).
Paleo - World's Smallest Violin

I was once a huge emo and hardcore music fan. I still am to some extent but not like I was. This is one of the standout tracks from a not so well known band of both genres. I would liken this song to a ride on an old wooden roller coaster. It's an exciting jerky ride that will shake you up. When the ride comes to a stop and you come down off of the adrenaline high you realize your body just can't take that abuse.
Planes Mistaken for Stars - Copper And Stars

Speaking of adrenaline, I found this mellow post-metal track through the Williams Street Records "Metal Swim" compilation. Just in case you don't know who Williams Street are they are a huge force behind the programing for the Cartoon Network show Adult Swim. They are constantly throwing out these compilations, and they are always fantastic, and full of fresh new artists ranging from hip hop, to indie, to metal. There are quite a few free downloads on their site, so it's worth looking into. Just a note, that not all the tracks on Metal Swim as toned down, or without the screaming vocals, like this song is. I chose this one because I figured it would be more listenable for everyone. I mean, come on it's is called "Metal Swim", not "Wussy Swim". If you like Pleican make sure to click on the band name below to be transported to instrumental metal heaven (A.K.A. the bands bandcamp page.)
Pelican - Inch Above Sand

If your not familiar with the term Nerdcore I'd like to direct your attention to a great website that can give you a taste of the dorkside of hip hop. The site is called Nerdcore Now and it's home to some of the geekiest rappers you ever heard. Don't be fooled though even though they spit rhymes about computers and silly things, the artists have tremendous skills. I suggest you click on this link Nerdcore Now Vol. 1 which is a free download, and join in on the fun.
PovertyMan - Rap Cliche


I found this reggae gem on the Bomboclat! Island Soak 2 :: A Rocksteady Mixtape which was created by one of my favorite music blogs Aquarium Drunkard. You should check them out! The mix is available for download and I promise it'll be an instant go to for the summer.
Prince Buster - Move Over


Pink Nasty A.K.A. Sara Beck is folk rock princess. Her brutal honesty shines through her songs and her lyrics have razor sharp wit. I would recommend making a stop by her website because she has graciously provided not one, not two, but three free albums for our listening pleasure. I have yet to hear the latest album, but I have heard Mold The Gold. If it is similar, than I am sure it's nothing but spectacular. This song is off one of the album Mold The Gold and it features guest vocals by Bonnie "Prince" Billy. Treat yourself and have a listen to the prince and princess of indie folk. I love it when a blurb comes together!
Pink Nasty - Don't Ever Change(No Longer Available)

Long overdue

So last weekend was Bonnaroo. I wasn't there in person, but I did end up watching most of the live streaming coverage on Youtube. I have a review of what I saw throughout the 3 day music festival, but I decided not to post it. It got too long and I don't think it would be too interesting. I might still post it, but it needs to be condensed big time. I mentioned a update on my facebook account almost a week and a half ago, and it still hasn't happened. So where have I been the last 2 months? Well I wish I had a good explanation to give you. It's been a combination of laziness, being busy with trying to find a job, being preoccupied with other projects or playing video games. Only one of those reasons is admissible, the rest are just me being a slacker. However I am back now, and I am going to try my damnedest to keep up to date. What do you say? Let's get this dog and pony show on the road.

I'm going to spoil my Bonnaroo post right off the bat but, I feel I can do this because I found out about this song a week before the festival. According the their Wikipedia page it says that the five band member all met each other at an artist commune in 2008. I was fortunate enough to catch their performance at Bonnaroo and they completely blew me away. They had the audience in a frenzy by the end of their set. They have fun stage presence and you can tell that the band genuinely enjoys what they are doing. If you couldn't guess by their name these cats are sort of hippieish, but in the best way possible. Their music is upbeat, happy and weird. They looked like a rag tag bunch that was just thrown together, the male vocalist had a Kurt Cobain disheveled artist look, the female singer looked like Molly Ringwald straight off of the set from Pretty In Pink (so hot!). Then you had a guy who looked like he should be in The Allman Brothers and another who should be in Nickelback. You might have actually heard a song by them already. Their song "Tongue Tied" was featured in an iPod Touch commercial. I don't care how they look or if they are hippies, I want lots of GROUPLOVE!
Grouplove - Colors


I mentione above that I have been playing a lot of video games lately, actually computer games, but whatever. A friend of mine got me to give the popular online game service Steam a try. My friend had been telling to to download the client for a while and I put it off, mostly because I forgot about it and the message he sent me got buried in my message folder. I ended up finally doing so because I am blessed with awesome friends, who do nice things like send me a game fro my birthday. I then ended up buying what is called the Indie Humble Bundle. It's a suite of games you can buy and you name your own price, and a portion of the proceeds got to charity. Not only did I get about 8 really sweet indie games but I also got the soundtracks for most of the games. One game in particular I played had, in my opinion, the greatest soundtrack I have heard in a game. The Game was called Superbrothers: Sword & Sworcery EP. The game itself is an 8-bit looking exploratory action adventure game. I'm not going to go into the game play but I did want to mention, because I think it's funny, that you eat mushrooms and trip out to help you understand how to do certain tasks throughout the game. It's really an original and fun game with beautiful graphics. The music was composed by Jim Guthrie who has been a member of bands such as the Islands and Royal City. The soundtrack was released on a special edition vinyl, which is the same one that is featured in the game. I can't really describe the music other than a perfect audio landscape full of moody goodness. Bravo Mr. Guthrie! Do yourself a favor and check the album out on bandcamp. You won't be sorry.

Jim Guthrie - Little Furnace


I have been looking for a job since February and I am having a heck of a time trying to find work. It's so hard to find a decent job these days, it's crazy. Every place wants either 3 years of experience, a degree, or to pay a low wage that's virtually impossible to live on. I actually had a great interview recently with a company. I was excited about it. I waited on pins and needles for two weeks only to get a an e-mail telling me they went with more qualified candidates. It was practically the same job I was doing before. Let me tell you, I was super bummed. I firmly believe that today in the US, the hardest job is finding a job. I never thought I'd say this but I REALLY miss working. I really do. I WANT IT! I am also trying to get back into school, and that has been a series of roadblocks as well. However, no matter how hard it gets, how many times I get rejected, how depressed I get; I remind myself that I am awesome. I'm as tough as nails and I won't let this big bad world push me to the ground. I'm going to eat that frustration and poop out motivation. Watch out jobs/school, I'm coming to get ya! I think this little punk rock gem from 1995 sums it up quite nicely.

CIV - Can't Wait One Minute More


I have always been a fan of David Bazan. Whether it's his work sitting in with different bands, being the front man and creative force behind Pedro The Lion, or his solo projects; he's a tornado of talent. His lyrics and music both carry a no nonsense honest style. This is the title track, from the 2001 album Strange Negotiations.

David Bazan - Strange Negotiations

I don't consider myself to be a avid listener of ultra catchy pop songs, but I will admit that I have a soft spot for really good ones. This may ruin any cool kid cred but I might have a Katy Perry or Bruno Mars song or two in my library. Who am I kidding? I do, and I love it. If that makes me uncool then so be it. Like what you love and let the haters hate. This song by Brett Dennen is absolute ear candy, with a chorus that will have you still singing long after the song is done. Why is this guy not huge? If more stuff like this was played on major radio I'd definitely tune in.

Brett Dennen - Sydney I'll Come Running

Stunner Summer - A RopBop Mix

It's been hot as hell recently, so I decided that now would be a good time for a Summer Mix. I am actually planning on doing two summer mixes this year. The first mix (this one) is meant to be listened to during the day, when you are chilling at the beach, or taking a road trip. The second will be music for a summer night. So keep your eyes peeled, I will be posting it soon. I hope everyone has a safe and great summer!

Artist names link to their respective webpages, songs link to youtube videos.

Stunner Summer - A RopBop Mix

01. The Fabulous Wailers - Tall Cool One
02. The Almighty Defenders - Cone Of Light
03. Jacuzzi Boys - Cool Vapors
04. Opus Orange - Nothing But Time
05. Ween - Ocean Man
06. The Skatalites - Latin Goes Ska
07. Stereo Total - Ta Voix Au Téléphone
08. Das Racist - Coochie Dip City
09. Blackbird Blackbird - Sunspray
10. Golden Boys - She Said It
11. The Stone Roses - Waterfall
12. John Lee Hooker - The Waterfront
13. T. Rex - Mambo Sun
14. The Strange Boys - Be Brave
15. Alabama Shakes - I Found You
16. Dr. Dog - The Old Days
17. Born Ruffians - Foxes Mate For Life
18. The Dirty Projectors and David Byrne - Knotty Pine
19. fun. - Some Nights
20. Norwegian Recycling - Miracles
21. My Sick Uncle - Lil Wayne (feat. Kanye West)Quequ'un M'a Dit: We Outta Here Baby
22. The Mountain Goats - Jenny


Here is the link for the mix. Enjoy!!

The Letter O

For some reason I always think that this song is done by Okkervil River, however the singer sounds nothing like Will Sheff. I am pretty sure the connection stems from the fact that Okkervil's faster songs usually have a rowdy feel, similar to this one.
The Old Canes - Little Bird Courage

How about some funk that will make you say "O'ma god, that's funkay!"
Orgone - Who Knows Who?


I hate it when I leave the oven on, but I love it when I leave the Ovens on.
Ovens - Movin' On


I feel a mashup coming on....are you ready?
Overdub - Five Step (Radiohead vs Dave Brubeck)


Ooooo it looks like we are going to have a battle of the old men in this post...
Old Man Markley - Guts N' Teeth

V.S.
Old Man Luedecke - At The Airport


And the winner is....


It would just be a shame if I didn't declare him the best old man.

Well I checked that off my list!

Hello and welcome to another post on RopBop. This one is going to be a short one, the reason for this is because I have been working on this blog like mad the past few days. What have I been doing you might ask? Well, I went through all the posts and updated the songs that were no longer available and directed them to the songs youtube link and I also updated every band name so it now directs you to a link for the band! I tried as much as I could to post to official music videos or live performances, I'd say about 70% should go to something you can watch. There will be some that just aren't there, but look close cause sometimes I link to a different song by the band. Also don't worry I'll still leave the past few posts up for a while before converting the links to strictly youtube. I hope you have just as much fun going back through the old posts as what I did (even though it was a daunting task). I'll be back next week with the normal sized post. Time to get a victory sandwich!

Rock on,
-Brad-

I am sure that I have talked about the ADD mashup master Girl Talk before, and I am about to give him critical praise once again on his latest release All Day. Weather you love to dance, love music, or need something to get the party started this should be an immediate go to. Where else can you hear Biggie rapping over Smoke On The Water, or Missy Elliot gettin' her freak on over Blitzkreig Bop. Listening to this album is so much fun and will have your head bobbing until the end. Oh did I mention the album free? Why wouldn't you at least give it a try!? As a side not I would definitely suggest Girl Talks other albums.
Girl Talk - Oh No


I recently made a mix for a friend of mine, because I'm a nice guy like that, and I included a lot of rap and R&B stuff and other geeky songs that I knew he would like. This friend works with developmentally challenged kids at an inner city elementary school. He is always telling me how he is breaking up fights, or sending kids to the principals office for being bad. It sounds like a tough job but he's a cool guy with a level head so he's perfect for the job. In the mix I gave him I added this song called Manners by indie rapper Big Don. He called me a few days later telling me that he is going to use it in one of his lessons. First of all it made me happy that I finally made a mix that he liked, secondly I am thankful for people like Big Don who decide to make a sweet rap song and keep it on a positive level. We need more of that in this world.
Big Don - The Manners (No Longer Available)


As I have mentioned on this blog before I listen to a lot of Podcasts. I am particularly addicted to The Preston And Steve Show on 93.3 WMMR. They have this great game that they play called Crackshot. Basically each member of the morning show has a category that they are "experts" in. Someone is an expert in Saved By The Bell trivia, someone else is an expert in 80's movies and so on. The listening audience calls in and tries to stump the DJ. If they do they get a prize and the expert gets shot in the ass with a BB gun. They roll a die to see how many times the gun gets pumped. If you roll a six you can pass the shot to someone else. It definitely makes for some interesting and hilarious listening. At the beginning they always play this song. Roger is also a cousin to Jackass's Johnny Knoxville
Roger Alan Wade - B.B. Gun

Jump right into the water...of nerdiness!

It feels like forever since I have done a post here, however it's only been ten days. I guess that is because I have been busy with other nerd activities. I recently bought a copy of World Of Warcraft, which has been taking up some of my time. My hat goes off to the makers of that game because, damn, it's insanely intricate. A few weeks ago I also discovered Reddit which is one of my favorite websites at the moment. If you haven't checked it out, do so. Just make sure you have a few hours to kill, and look up subreddits. There is a subreddit for pretty much everything! The latest time taker has been a program called XBMC. It's a media center program that is leaps and bounds beyond what you have on your computer. In the simplest terms it lets you stream media (movies, tv shows, music, pictures) from websites or from your computer. For example if you use Hulu, there is a plugin that will create a list of everything you can watch on Hulu and organize it into a easy to sort list. That way you don't have to go to the site and click all over to get to what you want. Now imagine being able to do that with National Geographic.com or G4tv.com or whatever other site you like. It's pretty customizable, and best of all it's open source (meaning anyone can write code for it). Anyway, all that on top of putting in applications for jobs has kept me pretty busy. This is a song by Swedish indie pop group Suburban Kids With Biblical Names. It's a really great song about computers and music! Yay!
Suburban Kids With Biblical Names - Loop Duplicate My Heart


The other day I was cleaning my closet and I came across my comic books. I haven't looked at them for years, it was a fun trip down memory lane. I used to get this comic book magazine in the mail called Wizard. I think it's still around but the format has changed drastically from what I remembered it to be. Looking back I got a lot of cool magazines in the mail. I used to have a stack of Nintendo Power magazines from the early 90's. I was always super excited to get the mail, hoping the new issue was there. The pure jubilation seeing it there waiting for me to rip open the plastic bag, smell the fresh newsprint scent, taking my time leafing through the pages like it was something to be cherished. I wish I still had some of those magazines. To this day I still love getting the mail or receiving packages in the mail. In fact...
Pree - In the Parlor


Brad's Possibly Radio Friendly Song Pick Of The Week:
The Stationary Set - Haunt On


I love the 90's. This song is pretty heavy and dark, but I love the chorus, especially near the end. I also like the way he says water.
Emmet Swimming - Jump In The Water


Alright time to end this post. I need to take a shower, I feel funky!
Dyke And The Blazers - You Are My Sunshine

Diggin' through the crates....

I rearranged my CD collection this week, by that I mean I cleaned and organized. It took a long time and created a lot of sneezes but it was well worth it. As I was going through it all I pulled out a few songs from older compilations I had. You can expect to see a few older songs in the next few entries, because I found a ton.

This song is from San Jose's Korea Girl. You probably won't find a ton of info about them. They had only released one album and a 7". On top of that they broke up nearly 12 years ago. Regardless, of all of this they still made some pretty damn good tunes. You can still get their album through Asian Man Records. Buy it through there, because the guy who runs the label, Mike Park, is a really great guy. I would also recommend checking out their song "Reunion", for a chilled out bitter song about a high school reunion.
Korea Girl - B-Side


Phantasmic were one of the first bands that I featured on this blog. If I remember correctly (and I do cause I just checked) I posted a cover song by them as well. A Misfits cover song no less! Well this time Ms. Wiley and company bless us with a wonderful version of Billy Idol's "Eyes Without A Face". I dig the distorted guitar so much in this song, especially toward the end. Super grindy!
Phantasmic - Eyes Without A Face (Billy Idol Cover)


I first came to know of this song from a little indie magazine I would pick up back in the 90's. The magazine, CMJ used to have a magazine and compilation CD of the bands featured in the magazine. Back then I was all about getting free stuff with magazines. Probably why I have so many comic book trading cards. Anyway this is a little instrumental by µ-Ziq (pronounced like the word music). It's like a lullaby only a little faster, very twinkly. It would make a perfect night time driving song.
µ-Ziq - Phiesope


Do you remember the big ska craze of the 90's? I really miss ska music and would love to see it reflected more in music. It was just so happy and fun. This song by The Slackers isn't necessarily super upbeat, but it does manage to tap into that laid back Jamaican Ska sound. On a side note, if you ever see a CD called Give 'Em The Boot Vol.1, you best pick that shit up! It's a great compilation.
The Slackers - Watch This


RIYL (Recommended If You Like): The Rentals. This is a great indie band that is driven by power pop, keyboards and guy/girl vocals. More rock than you can shake a stick at. Their first album, Designing a Nervous Breakdown is one of my personal favorites.
The Anniversary - The D In Detroit


Be on the lookout for a few mixes coming soon. As well as a podcast??? (This is still in the works, so it might be a while.)

The Letter N

This track comes from one of the best split EP's I have ever heard One Jug of Wine, Two Vessels. I love the lazy laid back vocals. I remember reading an interview with Conor Oberst of Bright Eyes (The other artist on this split) where he was asked which album was his favorite written or collaborated piece of work that he had done, and without hesitation he said this EP. I might have to agree.
Neva Dinova - Poison


Quick little gem from Nashville Tennessee rockers Natural Child.
Natural Child - Dogbite


I like to come up with my own genres sometimes just to be funny. I call this song Fury Blues.
Nick Curran And The Lowlifes - Kill My Baby


How about some 60's psych rock? Dig that fuzzed out guitar solo, man!


L.A.'s underground darlings No Age make great instrumental tracks!
No Age - Eraser


Thew New York Dolls were an important band that paved the way for the New York punk scene which spawned bands like the Ramones. This song was originally released in 1973, a much more fast and punked up version. This, much slower version is off the bands 2009 album Cuz I Sez So
New York Dolls - Trash(2009)


I guess technically this should go under the letter C, if you want to be a dick about it. I don't care though, I LOVE this woman and she is under the n's in my iTunes.


Canadian Indie pop. I think those canucks are on to something folks. I have yet to hear a really crappy Canadian band. P.S. If you know of one please refrain from informing me and ruining my love of the great white north.
No Kids - Beaches All Closed

I don't know what you mean

French is one of my favorite languages. I don't speak it. I just like to hear it. Tricot Machine are a boy-girl duo from Quebec. They aren't that well known outside of Canada, and it's a shame. Even though I don't understand the lyrics, I love the music composition. It's bright and poppy music that makes you want to lay back in the sunshine. The vocals are soft and fluffy with playful melodies. If you are a fan of bands like She And Him, Regina Spektor, or Iron And Wine, you might want to check these cats. I just looked up the lyrics in english and like the song even more!
Tricot Machine - L'Ours


Do you like sci-fi psychedelic rock? The you'll love this song. Chappos's music is like and interstellar space cruise with David Bowie, Neil Young and The Flaming Lips. Chappo keeps it unique by floating in between trippy rock and jam band blues. His new EP Moonwater was released a few days ago.
Chappo - Sweet Sigh


If you're not a complete music nerd, like I am, you might have missed out on the name Youth Lagoon, or maybe you have, as I am pretty late on writing about him. Real name Trevor Powers is Boise, Idaho resident who dropped his bandcamp debut last summer. He gained quick notoriety amongst the music crowd; Pitchfork included it in it's top 50 albums of 2011, and with good reason. Youth Lagoon's music has an ethereal air to it that leaves the listener in a haze of catchy melodies and reverberated vocals. It's got an electric computerized feel like many bands in the indie scene but it's not completely saturated to the point where it blends in with all the others. I would highly suggest this if you are a fan of Bon Iver. You can find his album The Year of Hibernation on Fat Possum Records.
Youth Lagoon - July


Back in January lead singer of The Hold Steady, Craig Finn, released his solo album Clear Heart Full Eyes on Vagrant Records. Being the huge Finn fan that I am, I am ashamed that I just now got the chance to give it a listen. I had heard a song or two before the release but I wasn't impressed at the time. Now that I actually have heard the whole album, I am happy to announce that it did not disappoint me. Hold Steady fans might be a little turned off by the record. The raucous celebratory themes aren't present, instead Finn has taken a more soft and bottom of the world feel. That's not to say that it is slow and depressing. It does have it's upbeat moments and Finns lyrics never fail to tell a vivid story. Pitchfork did a really good interview with him on the new album.
Craig Finn - No Future


I'm really digging this band lately. Especially this song.


One of the reasons I love Reddit. Found on r/listentothis.

Toe - Goodbye Feat. Toki Asako

The Letter M

Morning Teleportation are a fairly newer 3 piece from Bowling Green, Kentucky. They had a very psychedelic feel good rock sound that is really refreshing in this computer saturated day and age. I love the quick drumming and singing in this song. It makes it a really fun listen. This has been in a little morning playlist I have been listening to for a few days. Excellent motivation song.
Morning Teleportation - Expanding Anyway


The Mynabirds are a great indie pop band that are currently on Saddle Creek Records. They will be dropping their second album titled Generals June 5th. Check out their Daytrotter Session for alternate versions of some of their songs.
The Mynabirds - Numbers Don't Lie


This gem from 1971 comes from Scottish pop band Middle Of The Road. They never really hit it big in the States but were well received in Europe and Latin America.I like this song a lot, very bubblegum 60's sort of sound. It'll put a smile on your mug.
Middle Of The Road - Soley Soley


Lead singer of alt-country band Two Cow Garage (I know, great name), Micah Schnabel put out a solo record. The music reminds me lyrically of Frank Turner, by that meaning it touches heavily on issues of the 20 somethings. Musically it's got a folksy emo feel to it. I'm not saying I don't like it and that it's not original, I'm just saying it might not appeal to everyone. You should definitely give it a listen and decide for yourself, you can stream the album at Suburban Home Records. I especially like this track, it's got that to young to feel this old mentality. Lord knows I've been there.
Micah Schnabel - Throwing Rocks At The Sun


Boston's mashup master Lenlow has a brother, Messy James. Messy James made a mashup of his own, which is amazing. The mash up is a perfect blend of "No More I Love Yous" by Annie Lennox and "Under Pressure" by Queen with a little "Hella Good" by No Doubt for flavor. Makes me want to create my own mash up.
Messy James - No More I Love Yous (No More Pressure)


Alright, lets round this post out, and by round I mean underground...that didn't really work did it? And now were moving on. MC Paul Barman has been in the underground hip hop scene for nearly 13 years. He's put out a few album of his own and been a guest on many tracks with big underground rapper names such as MF Doom, Deltron 3030, and Prince Paul. Here is a track from his 2000 EP It's Very Stimulating with, one of my favorites Princess Superstar. P.S. you might not want to play this at work, unless you have headphones.
MC Paul Barman - MTV Get Off the Air, part 2 (feat. Princess Superstar)

They Say I'm Only Human But I'm Only Humanoid!

"Relevant: Jodie Foster from the movie Contact."

I woke up this morning, and something triggered me to remember this song. I don't know what it was, but I have been singing it ALL day. Which is sort of hard because I don't know most of the words. While researching this song I was reminded of how something can make you feel old. This sci-fi punk rocker came out in 1995. Sheesh!Since we're on the subject of sci-fi, I also want to add that if you have never seen the TV show Battlestar Galactica and are a fan of said genre I must recommend it. I'd even say if you are a fan of good drama TV it's well worth your time. Don't be swayed into thinking it's a total geek fest, it's got some great story telling! However don't watch the stuff from the original series from 1978-1980. It's not very good. I have been watching it for the last few days. Hmmm...maybe that's why I thought of this song.
Blaster The Rocket Boy - I'm Only Humanoid (Lost In Space)


Darlington is one of my favorite bubblegum punk bands. It doesn't stray far from the simple 3 chord pop punk sound of the 90's, but it is a whole lot of fun. The songs are cute and filled with snotty hilarity. How can you go wrong with a song where the singer pines over actress Jodie Foster? Apparently Ms. Foster was popular among the punk music scene. In the lyrics of this song the singer makes a reference to J.F.A., which is a punk band called Jodie Fosters Army. I don't blame them, Jodie Foster is pretty hot.
Darlington - Jodie Foster


This post that you are reading right now is from a few months back. I just never got around to posting it for some weird reason. A few weeks(months) ago Maya Rudolph hosted SNL. I was a little bored so I decided to look her up on Wikipedia. I found out some very interesting facts about her. First of all she's the daughter of Minnie Riperton, who had a big hit "Lovin' You" in 1975. On top of that, Maya also was a keyboardist, for a brief stint, in the band The Rentals. In Case you forgot, they were the ones who sang the song "Friends Of P" She also did some background vocals for the Rentals second album Seven More Minutes. If you don't believe me, I don't know why you wouldn't, watch the video below very closely. The Rentals are still putting out albums, you might want to look into it.

The Rentals - Please Let That Be You


Alright, lets bring this happy fest down a bit! I am flabbergasted that I have never posted a Bayside song on RopBop. I have been a fan longer than this blog has existed and I have been unintentionally keeping them hidden away. Well let me introduce you to the The Cure meets punk rock. These guys make great music to be angry and depressed to, and I say that with total love and respect. It won't leave you wanting to kill yourself, but it's great for when your at the bottom and trying to climb your way back to the top. What I am trying to get at is the lyrics are dark but the music is rocking. No joke, learned all the lyrics to their self titled album within the first week of buying it. I could not stop listening to it, and I wasn't even upset. It's pretty addicting. Make sure you bellow along with a side of malcontent for maximum enjoyment.
Bayside - Blame It On Bad Luck


I can't go out on a downer! I have had a previous post with a song by the fantastic Reggie And The Full Effect, and to be honest that number should be a lot more. I can not say enough great things about this band. Synth driven rock and roll that will make you jump on every bouncy piece of furniture you have. The band was started by Coalesce drummer James Dewees who handed out tapes he made as a joke to fans. The tape fell into the hands of Matt Pryor of The Get Up Kids, which led them to collaborate and form Reggie And The Full Effect. I have to take the opportunity to tell you that if you do not own a Reggie And The Full Effect album, you are missing out on one of the best indie rock bands within the last 15 years. I'd start with the album Promotional Copy, and go from there. You won't be disappointed!
Reggie And The Full Effect - Thanx For Stayin'


Edit: Just saw a link from Paste Magazine about 12 Michigan Acts You Should Listen To. Click the Link to check it out, some really good stuff! Thanks to Meegan for the post!

Wild Music Nation

The Shins have a new album set to drop on March 20th titled Port Of Morrow. This is the music video for the single "Simple Song". If you are wondering what it sounds like, it's your typical Shins sound, indie rock the way it should be, in other words, all around great song. Am I surprised? Nope. The only complaint I have is that the video overlaps the song quite a bit, however upon further exploration this can easily be remedied by checking out their web site. I wish there was some sort of streaming option for at least a few other songs, I'm really interested to hear what the rest sounds like. I guess we'll have to wait.


In my last post, I included a cover of "I Want To Be Adored" by The Stone Roses. That excellent cover was done by a band called Coma Cinema. Well, founding member Mat Cothran, has a side project called Elvis Depressedly. I did not know the bands were connected until much later on, I just listened to the song because I thought the band name was genius. Not only is the band name great but the music is too. It resonates on a very personal level, meaning that it's not all sunshine and flowers. Never the less, the music is very well done. Under produced, but in a way that makes it feel more hand made and adds an unforgettable vibe. The best part is you can download the three albums for free at the bandcamp page. P.S. Check out the Coma Cinema page for more free music. You won't be disappointed.
Elvis Depressedly - Mickey Yr A Fuck Up


Hip hop Shakespeare anyone? These people do great things!
Flocabulary- The Merry Wanderer


Mando Diao band from Sweden, they list the Beatles as a main influence which is easily noticeable in the poppy songs they produce. I read that they had a incident once at a show where the floor collapsed on the audience and the band stayed in the city and personally went to visit fans in the hospital. Instant cool points. This song has a sweet slow dance R&B soul feel to it. I think the shouted call and response chorus makes the song great. They have an extensive back catalog as well as games, which is unusual for a music page.

Mando Diao - Nothing Without You


I have always dreamed about living in the mountains, specifically in Colorado. Blitzen Trapper hit that folk/blues rock nerve just right with this song. Think "Mississippi Queen" by Mountain, only less hard rock and more country.
Blitzen Trapper - Wild Mountain Nation


Want to see something cool?

Got You Covered, Man!

As Wooderson would say "Alright! Alright! Alright!" Here is the covers mix as promised! Lets do this like the radio, less talk more music.

Got You Covered, Man!: A RopBop Mix

Mustard Plug - The Freshmen (The Verve Pipe cover)
Toots & The Maytals - Hey Jude (The Beatles)
Teenage Fanclub And Donna Matthews - Persinality Crisis (New York Dolls Cover)
Thom Yorke - All For The Best (Mark Mulcahy Cover)
Coma Cinema - I Wanna Be Adored (The Stone Roses Cover)
The Morning Benders - I Wanna Be Like You (Jungle Book Cover)
Emmy The Great - Where Is My Mind? (Pixies Cover)
Deer Tick - Dead Flowers (Rolling Stones Cover)
Neko Case - Buckets Of Rain (Bob Dylan Cover)
Rogue Wave - Maps (Yeah Yeah Yeahs cover)
Bon Iver - I Can't Make You Love Me/Nick Of Time (Bonnie Rait Cover)
Alice Russell - Crazy (Gnarls Barkley Cover)
Rodrigo y Gabriela - Stairway To Heaven (Led Zeppelin Cover)
Lissie - Nothing Else Matters (Metallica Cover)
Florence + The Machine - Hospital Beds (Cold War Kids Cover)
Willie Nelson - The Scientist (Coldplay Cover)
Karen O and the Kids - Worried Shoes (Daniel Johnston Cover)
Jose Gonzalez - Heartbeats - (The Knife Cover)
Me First And The Gimme Gimmes - End Of The Road (Boys II Men Cover)

Get the mix HERE

The super early bird gets the worm.

I recently came further out of the internet cave and started messing around with Reddit. Being the music nerd that I am, I went instantly to the music section, where I spent hours checking out music. Early this morning, I came across the Alabama Shakes live performance on KEXP. I was blown away by their down south feel good soul vibe. I can't see many people disliking these musicians. The band is tight, groovy, and the singer doesn't hold back the emotion. Often I am disappointed by live performances, I don't know if it was because I saw the live stuff before hearing the in studio, but obviously this is a band that you don't want to miss live. Their full length album Boys & Girls is coming out April 9. You can stream the EP on Bandcamp. Below is the full KEXP session. I already put in my pre-order through iTunes.

Alabama Shakes - Hold On


I am posting this just so I can tease the Cover Mix I will be putting up in a few days. It's actually done but I wanted to get the Alabama Shakes stuff up before I forgot. This cover doesn't stray far from the original, and that makes me glad, because this is a song that would be easy to ruin. Granted, the original doesn't leave much room for change in the first place. It's cool to hear it sung by a female.
Ellie Goulding - The Wolves (Act I & II) (Bon Iver Cover)


This band has been around since 2001! Where have you been? If you answered not listening to the Beatings, then you deserve one. Don't worry, I deserve one too, I recently discovered them. If you did know of them, and didn't tell me then you also deserve a beating. Lucky for us, new to the band they have a 6 album backlog. This band is pure rock and roll greatness!
The Beatings - Bury You


I don't know why but everytime I hear the first minute or so of this song I can't help but think of "Oh Sweet Nuthin'" by the Velvet Underground. However by the middle of the song it picks up pace and ends in a full out R&B revival choir feel. I love singing the chorus! This would be a great song to use when you need a little motivation.
Sweaters - Can't Stop Winnin'


Before going solo Why? was a member of the experimental hip hop group cLOUDDED and a member of the Indie hip hop label Anticon. Very different, but none the less cool.
Why? - By Torpedo Or Crohn's


I officially like Taylor Swift! This song is AMAZING! This is off the soundtrack for the Hunger Games. I think I need to get around to checking out this Hunger Games, I keep hearing a lot about it. In fact, that is exactly what I am going to do right now. Happy listening!

2163

...and I said what about Breakfast At Tiffany's?

You should probably take a ride with Dale Earnhardt Jr. Jr. Reppin' some mitten state pride!
Dale Earnhardt Jr. Jr. - Vocal Chords


I have had no desire to see the movie Breakfast At Tiffany's until recently. I came across this clip while cruising around youtube. I watched another clip or two from the movie and now I sort of want to see it. Even if the movie is boring, at least I get to watch a young and smoking hot, Audry Hepburn. I also have never been a big fan of this song, it's so boring. I still am not a huge fan of the song, but this definitely gets my stamp of approval.


You might not recognize the name Spence Krug, but if you are familiar with indie music you just might recognize his voice. Spencer has been the lead singer for Sunset Rubdown, Wolf Parade and many others. Since Wolf Parade is on indefinite hiatus status, Krug has gone solo and taken to a more synthesized experimental sound. Personally, it takes me a few listens to really begin to love anything from Krug, he makes the kind of songs that grows on you. I don't say that as a slam to him or his music. In fact that is more of a compliment than anything. There are a few songs I like instantly, but for the most part, that is how it works with me. When I do come around though, I end up loving the songs. This is one of those songs. This guy can write some damn good lyrics too.
Moonface - Fast Peter


A few mornings ago I successfully made scrambled eggs and bacon. This is a feat I have been trying to accomplish since my Mom stopped cooking for me. I always end up burning everything. I gave it another try and before I started I got online and watched a how to video. I don't know why I never thought of that before. God, I love the internet.
Rainer Maria - Breakfast Of Champions


The first time I heard the beginning of this song I thought I was listening to Never Tear Us Apart by INXS, which then made find that song so I could add it to my collection. I would have bought this too, but she doesn't have an album out yet. If she keeps putting sick beats and inspiring lyrics like this, I will definitely add her to my collection. Pepper you are on the Bradar!
Pepper - Wish It Away


Interesting fact: The lead vocalist and drummer for the band The Big F, were also in the band Berlin. That's right, the same Berlin who did Take My Breath Away. Only to disassociate themselves with that band, they used fake names. You can understand why after listening to this song. Trust me, this is nothing like Take My Breath Away. Enjoy!
The Big F - Idiot Kid Heads Out

2148