New Music Thursday: Vows

Well, have I been waiting for this one. Ever since seeing her last year I've been following Kimbra's progress. It seems she's getting pretty big now. You know you've made it when Katy Perry misspells your name in a tweet.

And (finally), her debut arrived last Friday. If I wasn't already convinced of her amazing musical talent and versatility, the album put forth a pretty convincing argument.

It begins on familiar ground, opening with her first single Settle Down, followed by Cameo Lover. Then we're introduced to the new stuff. Highlights for me include the smoky, cabaret-infused "Good Intent" (the video of which I'm sharing with you tonight), the very funky "Call Me", and the relaxed groove of "Wandering Limbs" (a duet with Melbournian Sam Lawrence that reminds me a little of Zero 7).

I have to say that as good as the music on the album is, her live show is something else entirely. There's just something about her on-stage energy and super-talented, super-tight band that is impossible to capture in the studio. And I think that's something you could be pretty proud of.

I hope you guys enjoy the video for "Good Intent". I've gotta say that I dig it a lot. If I could ever dance in anything actually resembling a "style", then this would be it. The guys in this clip definitely know how to move.

Enjoy.

P.S. If you want to listen to Kimbra's album right now, you can stream it online.

New Music Thursday: Big Scary's Gladiator

I really enjoyed watching Melbourne duo Big Scary tonight in their support slot for Liam Finn (son of Kiwi music royalty Neil Finn. His backing band also includes two other members who are children of ANZAC music royalty: his brother Elroy on drums, and playing various percussion instruments and providing backing vocals is Eliza-Jane Barnes, daughter of none other than Jimmy Barnes. But I digress...)

At the start of Big Scary's set I was reminded of another man-woman duo from California named Mates of State, however these guys quickly proved me wrong by stamping their on unique style on the evening. While Mates of State make fairly bright pop music, Big Scary seek every opportunity to rock out, despite having only two on stage. A lot of their songs contained enough dynamic and tempo changes to give you a blood nose, however they also played some that were more beautifully brooding, such as the one I'm sharing with you today.

'Gladiator' has just been released as a single for their upcoming album 'Vacation', which is due to be released early October.

Enjoy.

Gladiator by bigscary

New Music Thursday: Simple ain't always stupid

I came across this video from Kiwi Indie-rockers The Naked and Famous courtesy of rage, and was pretty impressed. Anyone who's ever used a beat-maker on their computer or iPhone will know where I'm coming from.

Anyways I thought I'd share the video with you. It's a pretty basic concept, but they've done a great job with it!

The Naked and Famous are currently touring in the USA and Europe, but will be in Australia in September for the Parklife Music Festivals that are happening around the country.

Enjoy!

The Naked And Famous - Girls Like You from The Naked And Famous on Vimeo.