What's coming - Beardyman!

13 March (Beta Nightclub, Denver CO)

British beatboxer Beardyman knows how to work a crowd. He's a full on entertainer, more than just another mouth percussion guy. It's clear from his performance that he's learned how to elevate his craft with mime, sketch comedy, music, and commentary to create an engaging show. Denver is incredibly lucky to get another visit (he was just here last month).

Beardyman has developed his toolset, the Beardytron 5000 Mk III, to enable his latest release, Distractions, which allows him to quickly evolve musical ideas into richly layered works. I'm psyched to catch this performance, which will also feature Shank Aaron and Sureshot.

Coming attractions - Backbeat Soundsytem

Do you feel lucky?

Trust is absolutely vital, especially when it comes to our culture-rich. We're in the middle of a golden age of music; there are hundreds of small independent labels and countless unaffiliated bands releasing albums and singles. That's the good news. The bad news is that it can be ridiculously hard to find know what's worth bothering with, given the overabundance of choices. That's where trust comes in. Maybe you've found critics or hipster outlets that you depend on to filter through it all. Aside from the set of artists I follow closely, there are a couple of independent record labels that have never steered me wrong.

Easy Star Records, home of the Easy Star All-Stars, is one of those. Aside from the All-Stars' reggae cover albums, which are exquisite, they produce a collection of strong artists like Passafire, The Green, and John Brown's Body. The latest addition is Backbeat Soundsystem, who demonstrate that strong rhythms and solid chank can thrive in the U.K. The band's label debut, Together Not Apart, has just released and Easy Star is sharing tracks from the new album.

Two of these, "Fighting Bull" and Hey Girl", offer two different sides of the band's skills. I like both, but "Fighting Bull" hits my sweet spot a little harder. The band lays down a funky reggae groove, with a marching bass throb and horn punch accents. The conscious lyrics are right up front, surfing the beat. The production mixes things up, with some light dub moments and synthesizer vamps. "Hey Girl" goes for a poppier feel, with a nice R&B vocal line, but still spices it up with some toasting flow. This time, the keys frost the edges of the tune with old-school tones that reach back some 40 years to the heady days of dance club funk.



If you dig feel-good reggae at all, Backbeat Soundsystem deserves a listen. Trust me.

Coming attractions - Primus, "Golden Ticket"

Here come the Bastards. 

Well, that was my first instinct when I heard that Primus' next release would be an homage to the classic "Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory". But the more I thought about Les Claypool's cracked reflection juxtaposed with Gene Wilder's beloved character, some of the ludicrous logic began to make a kind of warped sense. The big question in my mind is whether he'd find his own expression of Wonka or whether it would owe more to Johnny Depp's spin. Primus' dark slant argues for the latter, but the earlier taste of "Pure Imagination" was sufficiently intriguing that any real judgment will have to await Primus & the Chocolate Factory with the Fungi Ensemble. Part Tom Waits inspired percussion (thanks, Mike Dylan) and part uneasy Claypoolean dreaminess, the song is pure Primus weirdness, but the focused moodiness has a calculated clarity that contrasts well with the hyper-attack the band is usually known for.

"Golden Ticket" offers another stop along their re-imagining of the "Willy Wonka" soundtrack. Claypool's moping, weary intro belies the optimistic lyrics, "I never had a chance to shine/ Never a happy song to sing/ But suddenly half the world is mine/ What an amazing thing." Then the tune launches into a martial beat borrowed from "Here Come the Bastards". It doesn't take long for Claypool to assume his twisted Ringmaster persona.  Although Claypool chews the scenery true to form, the music stands up well for itself.  Like their version of "Pure Imagination", the syncopation drives the tune and Sam Bass' cello solo is an expressive treat. There's also a precision that evokes Frank Zappa at his best.



I'm still not quite willing to swallow the ("Primus Bar") chocolate bars whole, but looking over the songlist which parallels the original soundtrack, I find myself eager to hear the Primus take on "The Rowing Song", "Semi-Wondrous Boat Ride", which seems to be right in their wheelhouse.

Primus & the Chocolate Factory with the Fungi Ensemble is due to release on October 21.

Coming attractions: Negativland, "Right Might"

Gather 'round, kids, while I tell you about the biggest punks and anarchists that ever released an album. Sure Black Flag was hardcore and the Butthole Surfers were a chaotic, artistic mess, but Negativland managed to fight the system and spit in the face of authority without relying on mere guitar thrash to carry their message. Instead, they pioneered audio editing to create sonic collages with subversive themes. Their first album, Negativland was released in 1980, but I didn't find out about them until their 1987 record, Escape From Noise. I still remember being floored by the audacity of "Christianity is Stupid", which sampled a preacher, turning his message on its head. They later achieved much wider exposure because of the lawsuits over their 1991 EP, U2, which sampled the Irish band and an obscenity-laced Casey Kasem rant. They eventually made their case for fair use.

In the years since, Negativland hasn't been completely idle, but their last release was a good six years ago. That dry spell is ending with a new album, It's All in Your Head, due October 28. Continuing their history of thumbing their noses at the popular and powerful, this album arose from an unusual gift: access to Disney's private audio archives. The source is appropriately cloaked in mystery, but Negativland asked for and received countless hours of material. It should come as little surprise that they're not only poking their fingers in Disney's eye, but they're continuing their challenge of religion's place in society. You can bet that this sound from the happiest place on earth is going to piss off a lot of people.

The first taste they're offering is "Right Might", which splices up the animatronic Abraham Lincoln to offer up a commentary on faith and Christianity's Dominion Theology. Based on an excerpt from the recording sessions for Disney's "Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln" attraction, voice actor Royal Dano offers up a host of takes on his line, "Let us have faith that right makes might." This is quickly transformed into "Let us have faith that right faith makes might right," and other variations, Accompanied by a downshifted version of "The Battle Hymn of the Republic", Dano is repeatedly cued by the producer to adjust his intonation to fine tune the nuance of the performance. The message becomes more strident and confrontational.


Much like the classic punk bands, Negativland is still focused on pushing buttons and generating outrage while making their point. On the plus side, they have honed their skills over the years and they're likely to garner more attention than Jello Biafra's post-Dead Kennedys lectures/rants. I'm going to guess that they've already shared their press material with the right wing Christian press to trigger the first wave of denouncements.

Front Range - Recommended shows, 8/20

Another fine week of music with a couple of grandmasters coming through town.

23 August (Cervantes Masterpiece, Denver CO)
Maceo Parker

Legendary horn player Maceo Parker is bringing the funk to Cervantes this week. Parker's work with James Brown and George Clinton made his reputation as the premier funk sax player in the world. His solo career has continued to show what an incredible player he is. Don't miss this show!

24 August (Cervantes Other Side, Denver CO)
25 August (Hodi's Half Note, Ft. Collins CO)
Lyrics Born

Both in his solo work and with Latyrx (his partnership with Lateef the Truthspeaker), Lyrics Born has delivered smooth rapping hip hop on a soulful tip. His uptempo flows don't crack his chill, laid back groove. It's nice to see he'll make it to Ft. Collins again.

26 August (Red Rocks Amphitheatre, Morrison CO)
Bonnie Raitt

Bonnie Raitt is touring with a new album, Slipstream. It's sure to be a wailing good time at this Red Rocks show. Raitt is one of the greatest living slide guitar players. Whether she's laying down a wicked slide run or singing the blues with her worn flannel vocals or both, her songs connect on a deep level.

Front Range - Recommended shows, 8/13

This is a slower week after last week's fine selection. Even though it means we can catch our breath, there are still some cool shows to see.

17 August (Red Rocks Amphitheatre, Morrison CO)
18 August (Red Rocks Amphitheatre, Morrison CO)
Pretty Lights

Pretty Lights (Derek Vincent Smith) is rooted here in Ft. Collins, but the band/record label is a worldwide phenomenon now. Thick with a rich selection of samples, genre mash-ups, and a rave aesthetic, the band's music is festival friendly. Red Rocks is a good venue to chill and enjoy the flow.

18 August (Bluebird Theater, Denver CO)
Dread Zeppelin

What would Elvis do? More to the point, what would Tortelvis do? I mean aside from create the best reggae/Led Zeppelin cover band in the world? I'm not sure, either. But, having done that, I have to ask, hasn't he given us enough?

It's a goofy enough idea, but it works largely because of the musical magic. The songs just click into place.

Front Range - Recommended shows, 8/6

This week is one of the hottest of the summer, at least musically. There are plenty of great shows this week.

6 August (Ogden Theatre, Denver CO)
Die Antwoord

South African rappers, Die Antwoord, celebrate their Zef culture with an outrageous flair. Trashy, foul-mouthed, and occasionally shocking, their act incorporates enough campy elements that it's not clear how seriously they take it all. They're certainly an acquired taste, but this should be a fun show.

8 August (Red Rocks Amphitheatre, Morrison CO)
Jack White

Jack White's work with the White Stripes, the Raconteurs, and The Dead Weather have demonstrated his full on commitment to playing and capturing the right sound. He's touring with his new solo album, Blunderbuss. Accompanied by two different bands, the Peacocks and Los Buzzardos, this should be a memorable performance. I hope you already got tickets because it's sold out.

9 August (Hodi's Half Note, Ft. Collins CO)
12 August (Larimer Lounge, Denver CO)
Reverend Horton Heat

Psychobilly master, Reverend Horton Heat will make a couple of appearances here on the Front Range. His shows are high energy as he serves up country fried licks with a punk attitude.

10 August (Red Rocks Amphitheatre, Morrison CO)
Thievery Corporation
Beats Antique

World-tronica fans unite! Electronic grooves, anchored by a world wide selection of rhythms and tonal scales will take over Red Rocks. Beats Antique is one of my favorite bands to see live. They're opening for the ever eclectic Thievery Corporation. I just recently saw See-I (review), who are supporting members of the band. Of all the Red Rocks shows this year, this should be the most amazing.

Front Range - Recommended shows, 7/23

The lazy heat of late July offers a thinner set of concert choices. There are still a couple of cool options, though.

24 July (Cervantes Masterpiece, Denver CO)
Black Uhuru

Black Uhuru has gone through some changes over the years, with Duckie Simpson being the one constant. With so many classic jams in their back catalog (Guess Who's Coming to Dinner, Sponji Reggae, Great Train Robbery, ...), it will be a great show.

26 July (Red Rocks Amphitheatre, Morrison CO)
Tenacious D
The Sights

Tenacious D is touring behind their new album, Rize of the Fenix. While I didn't think Rize measures up to the D's earlier work, their live show should certainly be spectacular. I'm sure we'll be treated to many classic tunes in addition to the new tracks.

The Sights, a retro rock and soul outfit, are opening. The Sights' latest, Left Over Right (review) is a recent favorite album of mine, as it conjures up Eric Burdon and the Animals crossed with Badfinger.

26 July (Hodi's Half Note, Ft. Collins CO)
27 July (Larimer Lounge, Denver CO)
Keys N Krates

Pulling remix techniques out of the studio, Keys N Krates make it happen on stage. Layering in drums, keys, and electronic sounds, they splice and dice a live show that reacts to audience response.

Front Range - Recommended shows, 7/16

18 July (Red Rocks, Morrison CO)
Emmylou Harris
Steve Martin
Arlo Guthrie

This should be a spectacular show. Each artist brings something special to the table. Emmylou Harris is a national treasure, well known for her great songwriting and beautiful voice. Steve Martin has fully reinvented himself as a credible bluegrass musician. And Arlo Guthrie is still a fine storyteller and performer.

19 July (Cervantes Other Side, Denver CO)
See-I (members of Thievery Corporation)
Atomga

Thievery Corporation's Eric Hilton integrated reggae players Rootz and Zeebo Steele into his rotating cast of collaborators. See-I's solid reggae grooves sound great on-line, so I have high expectations for this show. Frank Roddy from Atomga alerted about the show - I haven't seen them since they opened for Seun Kuti and Egypt 80, so that's another good reason to head down to Denver.

19 July (Ogden Theatre, Denver CO)
Reel Big Fish

Skanking rockers Reel Big Fish are touring with a new album coming out, Candy Coated Fury. Their press promises that it's a return to the clever attitude and high energy ska sounds of their first two albums. The tiny samples in their teaser seem promising. Reel Big Fish always create a great party vibe in their live shows.

Front Range - Recommended shows, 6/25

A smattering of musical tastes this week...

27 June (Boulder Theater, Boulder CO)
Thurston Moore

The Sonic Youth guitar player has some pretty cool solo material. More recently, he's been branching into more acoustic sounds, but he still has his experimental edge.

28 June (Bluebird Theater, Denver CO)
The English Beat

Dave Wakeling has resurrected his classic ska band, The English Beat. The band also plays material he wrote for General Public.

28 June (Ogden Theatre, Denver CO)
Dark Star Orchestra

If you're not into ska on Thursday, maybe you're in a jam band mood. The Dark Star Orchestra offers one of the best Grateful Dead tributes you'll find.

Front Range - Recommended shows, 6/11

There's some chance the Mishawaka shows will be canceled due to the High Park fire, northwest of Ft. Collins. Hopefully, they'll get things under control before any more houses or people are directly damaged.

15 Jun 2012 (Mishawaka Amphitheatre, Bellvue CO)
7 Walkers featuring Bill Kreutzman
Pimps of Joytime

Bill Kreutzman has put together an amazing band that joins his Grateful Dead background with solid New Orleans funk. Grateful Dead lyricist has also contributed songs to 7 Walkers. This should be an amazing show, especially with The Pimps of Joytime opening. PoJT bring a veneration of old school funk masters and a modern angle with hip hop and Latin influences.

16 Jun 2012 (Boulder Theater, Boulder CO)
17 Jun 2012 (Mishawaka Amphitheatre, Bellvue CO)
Richard Thompson

Richard Thompson is a powerhouse guitar player with a droll, dark wit. From his early days with Fairport Convention, through his work with his ex-wife Linda Thompson, to his longtime solo work, Thompson has developed into a true player's player. His style is influenced by Celtic folk, skiffle music, jazz, and rock, but this has swirled together into a unique voice.

17 Jun 2012 (Ogden Theatre, Denver CO)
Ministry

Ministry are back together with a new album (Relapse). They're bringing their heavy industrial metal grind to Denver for a cathartic noise therapy session. The bit of new material I've heard fits well with the band's dark driving music. It's going to be a loud night!

Denver band, the Overcasters will be one of the opening acts. I haven't caught them since they opened for Sleepy Sun.

Front Range - Recommended shows, 6/4

Talk about a slow week. The only show that caught my eye this week was the MTHDS.

7 June (Cervantes Masterpiece, Denver CO)
MTHDS

I really enjoy the MTHDS mix of party time rock, ska, and hip hop. I'm not as certain about this show, which is a tribute to MCA (Adam Yauch). It should be interesting to hear the band do a set of Beastie Boys covers, but I won't make any promises. Kenetix will join them with a set of Red Hot Chili Peppers. Caveat Emptor.

Front Range - Recommended shows, 5/28

Some good choices this week, whether your tastes run to pop or something a little harder.

29 May (Ogden Theatre, Denver CO)
Santigold

Santigold just released a new album, Master of My Make Believe. Her modern pop sound incorporates electronic elements and solid beats. Whether she's mixing in electro-pop bounce or heavier dub step grinds, she's a performance oriented singer.

1 June (Moe's Bar B Que, Denver CO)
Convalescents

I recently reviewed Armageddon, the new album by Convalescents. Their punk pop energy and tight arrangements were great. If they can nail half of that on stage, this will be a great night full of thrashy fun.

3 June (Hodi's Half Note, Ft. Collins CO)
Bad Weather California

I caught Bad Weather California last year and enjoyed their pyscho-garage energy and frontman Chris Adolf's stage presence. This should liven up a Sunday night to kick start the next week.

Front Range - Recommended shows, 5/21

Another slower week, but still some good choices to justify getting out and about.

21 May (Hi-Dive, Denver CO)
Here We Go Magic

Luke Temple's Here We Go Magic drifts from heady retro psychedelia to dreamy pop. I haven't heard their latest, A Different Ship yet, but I did enjoy their last release, The January EP (review). Come out and let the reverberations bounce through your head.

25 May (Cervantes Masterpiece, Denver)
Lee "Scratch" Perry

Lee "Scratch" Perry is one of reggae music's finest innovators and ambassadors. Rather than rest on his rich history with reggae music, Perry has continued to expand his musical horizons. This should be a unique show and a great chance to see a legend. Perry is in his 70s, but he's still getting around, touring the world.

27 May (Mishawaka Amphitheatre, Bellvue Co)
Toad the Wet Sprocket
Roger Clyne and the Peacemakers

After breaking up in 1998, Toad the Wet Sprocket has been touring again in the last few years and even has a new album in the works. I haven't heard much about it, but I'll still recommend this show because the Mish is a great venue and Roger Clyne is opening for them.

You don't need my recommendation to catch Roger Clyne; his performances speak for himself, whether he's touring alone or with the Peacemakers. He makes it through here fairly often, but he and the Peacemakers are such a dependably strong act that see whenever I can.

Front Range - Recommended shows, 5/14

This week's shows seem to be all about the groove, whether it's setting a party vibe or nailing down the funk. The hard part will be choosing which ones to go to, given the overlaps.

17 May 2012 (Boulder Theater, Boulder CO)
18 May 2012 (Ogden Theatre, Denver CO)
Trampled By Turtles

Festival favorites, Trampled By Turtles are offering a couple of chances to catch their deeply rooted folk music as they pass through Colorado. The band brings an energy to their shows that proves that folk music is alive and well. Either venue will provide a great chance to watch them burn the strings.

17 May 2012 (Moe's Original Barbecue South, Denver CO)
The Veer Union

The Veer Union is touring behind their new album, Divide the Blackened Sky. Dark and hard driving, it's a solid set of material. The arrangements are tight, with a nice modern rock sound. I haven't made it to Moe's yet, but I'm going to try to get down there for this one.

18 May 2012 (Larimer Lounge, Denver)
Reptar

Reptar has a great party band sound. I reviewed their EP Oblangle Fizz, Y'All last year and enjoyed their goofy energy. Their latest, Body Faucet, is a full length that promises all the quirk in twice the space.

18 May 2012 (Cervantes Masterpiece Ballroom, Denver CO)
Pimps of Joytime

Another band from my review archives. A friend turned me on to these funkmasters when he texted me from their set opening a Michael Franti show. These guys take their lessons from the classic masters. Mixing up heavy funk and booty shaking Latin rhythms, their live shows will make you dance off a good ten pounds or so.

19 May 2012 (Boulder Theater, Boulder CO)
20 May 2012 (Mishawaka Amphitheatre, Bellvue CO)
Keb' Mo'

Boulder Roots and Blues Summit has a hot weekend planned. Taj Mahal is celebrating his 70th birthday with a show at the Boulder Theater on Friday and then Keb' Mo' is playing Saturday night. Really, you can't go wrong with either show, so just catch both. I shouldn't have to tell anyone about this phenomenal performer, but Keb' Mo' is a national treasure. He's equally comfortable playing dirty funk or dropping back and delivering vulnerable soul.

Front Range - Recommended shows,5/7

A couple of recommendations for the coming week.

8 May 2012 (Bluebird Theater, Denver CO)
Brian Jonestown Massacre

Brian Jonestown Massacre is a constant musical surprise. Pastiche shifts into alternate history as Brian Jonestown Massacre delivers their psychedelic, alternative reality performance. Good show, whoever/whenever they are.

13 May 2012 (Boulder Theater, Boulder, CO)
Grandmothers of Invention

My favorite Zappa cover band is Project Object. But Grandmaothers of Invention has so many members hailing from ex-Zappa bands, that you're guaranteed a classic time. With Napolean Murphy Brock, Tom Fowler, and Don Preston, it can't be anything less than amazing.

Front Range - Recommended shows, 4/30

This is a slower music week. That's okay -- after Todd Snider and Frankenstein Brothers last week, I'm happy to catch my breath.

1 May 2012 (Fox Theatre, Boulder CO)
Delta Spirit

I reviewed The Waits Room EP last year. I enjoyed Delta Spirits' Americana vibe and the few raw edges that crept in. From what I've read, the band has continued to evolve, but I think they're definitely worth a listen. They have a chaotic energy that should come though nicely in a live show.

2 May 2012 (Ogden Theatre, Denver CO)
Portugal. The Man

In the studio, Portugal. The Man balance loose trippiness with focused post-rock. Their live shows favor the psychedelic a little more. When I saw them last year, the moody lighting and egoless emphasis on the music made for an intense experience.

Front Range - Recommended shows, 4/23

It's a busy week with some great music. My current plan is to catch Todd Snider and Frankenstein Brothers at the very least.

25 April (Hodi's Half Note, Ft. Collins CO)
26 April (Boulder Theater, Boulder CO)
Todd Snider

Todd Snider's latest album, Agnostic Hymns & Stoner Fables (review), takes on economic inequity (New York Banker), strangely successful pairings (Brenda), and pigheaded optimism (The Very Last Time) among other themes. They're all good stories and Snider is the master narrator. His albums make for fun listening, but his live show captures the real lightning.

25 April (Gothic Theatre, Denver CO)
26 April (Fox Theatre, Boulder CO)
27 April (Aggie Theatre, Ft. Collins CO)
Frankenstein Brothers (Buckethead & That 1 Guy)

I know that Buckethead and That 1 Guy have been collaborating for a while, but this show will be my first time to see them live. I'm excited to hear how That 1 Guy's frenetic, one-man-band style will fit with Buckethead's shred-meister guitar work. Both of these guys are talented musicians with unique perspectives.

26 April (Hi-Dive, Denver CO)
28 April (Surfside 7, Ft. Collins CO)
Alone at 3AM

I'll warn you now that Alone at 3AM's upcoming album, Midwest Mess, is already in my review queue. Their bluesy country rock sound is well grounded. A first listen gave me a taste of Replacements, X, and maybe a hint of Roger Clyne's more earnest side.

27 April (Gothic Theatre, Denver CO)
Real Estate

I mentioned Real Estate's Easy in my January Singles post earlier this year. They have a cool, Fountains of Wayne style relaxed indie rock vibe. Assuming you're not on an irony-free diet, this show should be great.

Front Range - Recommended shows, 4/16

This week is a very slow music week on the Front Range. I could only find a couple of shows to recommend. Next week promises to be a bit more interesting, though.

21 April (Bluebird Theater, Denver CO)
MTHDS

MTHDS are bringing their ska infused party music to the Bluebird Theater. Skanking, rapping, and rocking will make for a fun show.

20 April (Cervantes Masterpiece, Denver CO)
21 April (Boulder Theater, Boulder CO)
The Motet

The Motet is a legend here on the Front Range. Dave Watts and his large ensemble of musicians mix up a healthy puree of musical styles anchored with a foundation of groove. I believe that this time, they're playing their "Funk is Dead" show, featuring unique, funkified covers of the Grateful Dead.

Front Range - Recommended shows, 4/9

Is it even worth recommending a sold out show? Sure, just in case some tickets turn up. Also, this next weekend, Ft. Collins will be a hotbed of live music.

10 April (Aggie Theatre, Ft. Collins CO)
11 April (Fox Theatre, Boulder CO)
12 April (Fox Theatre, Boulder CO)
Macklemore & Ryan Lewis

I've been a Macklemore fan for several years, enjoying his radically honest lyrics and solid flow. All three of these shows are already sold out, but there may be some scalpers at the show. If so, go for it because it's guaranteed to be entertaining.

12 April (Aggie Theatre, Ft. Collins CO)
13 April (Boulder Theater, Boulder CO)
14 April (Ogden Theatre, Denver CO)
The Travelin' McCourys featuring Keller Williams

The Travelin' McCourys features two sons of the bluegrass legend, Del McCoury. On this tour, they're partnering with acoustic jam looper, Keller Williams. While they'll be playing music from both group's catalogs, I believe that Williams will be playing straight acoustic without his electronic toys. Even so, it should be a fine show as all of these musicians are top grade performers.

13-14 April (Ft. Collins CO)
FoCoMx

FoCoMx is the the Ft. Collins Music Experiment. 300+ bands and performers will be playing over the weekend at a large collection of venues in Ft. Collins. There will be lots of local and regional acts filling the town with music. It doesn't matter what kind of music you like, you'll find them at one of the 30+ locations.

I really need to get on the ball so my band can play this next year.