Soundgarden has released the video for “Live To Rise”, their first piece of new music in 15 years, which appears on the soundtrack to The Avengers. With direction by Robert Hales, the clip mixes scenes from the film with footage of the band performing amidst a giant explosion. Don’t ask why.

The Avengers soundtrack is now available at your favorite retailer. The film hits theaters tomorrow.

Photo by Karina Halle

As previously reported, reunited grunge gods Soundgarden have contributed “Live To Rise”, their first piece of new music in 15 years, to the soundtrack for The Avengers. You can stream the song at KISW.com.

The Avengers soundtrack will be available on iTunes beginning May 1st. The band’s sixth studio album is coming soon.

The Avengers Soundtrack Tracklist:
01. Soundgarden – Live To Rise
02. Shinedown – I’m Alive
03. Rise Against – Dirt And Roses
04. Papa Roach – Even If I Could
05. Black Veil Brides – Unbroken
06. Scott Weiland – Breath
07. Redlight King – Comeback
08. Bush – Into The Blue
09. Evanescence – A New Way to Bleed (Photek Remix)
10. PUSHERJONES – Count Me Out
11. Theory Of A Deadman – Shoot To Thrill
12. Buckcherry – Wherever I Go
13. Five Finger Death Punch – From Out Of Nowhere
14. Cherri Bomb – Shake The Ground
15. Kasabian – Pistols At Dawn

Soundgarden has contributed its first piece of new music in 15 years to the soundtrack to The Avengers, as Rock It! Out Blog points out. Its comes in the form of a track called “Live to Rise” and you can sample 22 seconds of it below.

The Avengers soundtrack will be available on iTunes beginning May 1st. The band’s sixth studio album is coming soon.

When you compile a list like this, you start to tremble at how much you’re really going to absorb in the ensuing months. This doesn’t even cover the misses and surprises. If you’re a casual listener, you might get through an album a day. Okay, maybe two. If you’re a fanatic, you’re spinning discographies left and right. Still, after 365 days, either person is buzzing. One’s just a little louder with the phonetics.

As I wrote back in December, in a year, you’ll have your next roundup of favorite albums. You’ll have a new favorite song. You might even have a new band you’re obsessed with. It’s far too early to tell anything right now, but I’m willing to bet at least two or three of the records on this list will make up everyone else’s come December. At the very least, they’ll get people talking.

Hold me to it, if you want.

-Michael Roffman
President/Editor-in-Chief

Porcelain Raft – Strange Weekend

What we know: The debut record from Porcelain Raft is the sum of Mauro Remiddi’s 27 years of traveling across Europe, recording hundreds of tapes, and working on sundry, eclectic musical projects. It’s pregnant with personal history and influences from across the globe, not just some upstart hazing up his bedroom with a MIDI processor.

What CoS says: It’s a lush and most excellent dream pop record that stretches into the past while continuing to blaze into tomorrow. They’re on tour with M83 and can fill the spaces with the same amount of sound. –Jeremy D. Larson

Due out: January 24th via Secretly Canadian [Pre-Order]

Grimes – Visions

What we know: Indie-major label 4AD called them up from the sticks to release Visions, and the mystical gaze of Claire Boucher’s music does what a few of her gauzy contemporaries have a hard time doing: Her songs float out of the bedroom and onto the dance floor.

What CoS says: It’s easy for music like this to turn from daze to doze in a flash, but Grimes seems to know when to pop it up. –Jeremy D. Larson

Due out: January 24th via 4AD [Pre-Order]

Grimes – “Genesis”

Leonard Cohen – Old Ideas

What we know: The esteemed singer-songwriter and poet will grace fans with his first studio album since 2004. No stranger to grappling with heavy concepts within his lyrics, the 10 songs on this new record will deal with “the most profound quandaries of human existence – the relationship to a transcendent being, love, sexuality, loss, and death.” The announcement of the album described it as “the most overtly spiritual” of Cohen’s career.

What CoS says: Cohen is one of music’s greatest living poets, and if anyone could craft a beautiful song from such solemn subjects, it would be him. His albums have usually proven worth the wait, and Old Ideas should hopefully be no different. –Austin Trunick

Due out: January 31st via Sony [Pre-Order]

Air – Le Voyage Dans La Lune

What we know: With both a Sofia Coppola score and a diverse catalog to their credit, Jean-Benoît Dunckel and Nicolas Godin of Air are no strangers to blissfully abstract accompaniment. Expect this century-old silent film re-release come February, and if the “Sonic Armada” sampler was any indication, those schooled in Tangerine Dream have nothing to fear.

What CoS says: As it just so happens, Le Voyage Dans La Lune is much like Air itself — quietly influential and undoubtedly French. If you thought the Reznor/Ross dynamic was spaced-out, this project may very well take The Orb’s place on your iTunes playlists. –David Buchanan

Due out: February 6th via Astralwerks [Pre-Order]

Air  feat. Victoria Legrand - “Seven Stars”

Dr. Dog – Be the Void

What we know: On their seventh full-length, these Philadelphian psych-rockers trade symphonic for rollick. Even the tracks harkening most back to 2010’s orchestral Shame, Shame find moments of stomp, and folksy strums have largely given way to rocking blares. Though the good Dr. is still very much in, this “cathartic rock ‘n’ roll” record may be the loudest and heaviest thing they’ve ever put out.

What CoS says: With a catalog of consistent quality and the fact that their last two albums earned CoS Top Star honors, this one’s a no-brainer. The true test will be seeing where contributions from new full-time members drummer Erik “Teach” Slick and multi-talented Dimitri Manos take the band’s sound. –Ben Kaye

Due out: February 7th via ANTI- [Pre-Order]

Dr. Dog – “That Old Black Dog”

of Montreal – Paralytic Stalks

What we know: Across 10 albums, Kevin Barnes has played with all kinds of lysergic bliss, and their 11th LP sounds like a blend of former acid-pop songs and latter-day avant-electronic stretches. Its closest cousin is David Bowie’s Low, which is a great thing.

What CoS says: Beneath the vaporous instrumentals and glitchy funk, we could really use a good single this time around. –Jeremy D. Larson

Due out: February 7th via Polyvinyl [Pre-Order]

of Montreal – “Dour Percentage”

Sharon Van Etten – Tramp

What we know: To escape from the corner of a coffee shop can take some years, but with an indie debut as powerful as Van Etten’s 2010 album, epic, it only took a short amount of time for her to get noticed by The National’s Aaron Dessner. Tramp includes collabos with Dessner, Matt Barrick (Walkmen), Zach Condon (Beirut), Jenn Wasner (Wye Oak), Julianna Barwick, and more.

What CoS says: With a little help from her friends, Tramp more than gets by. Look forward to some roots rock and poison-tipped lyricism from this young talent. –Jeremy D. Larson

Due out: February 7th via Jagjaguwar [Pre-Order]

Sharon Van Etten – “Serpents”

Islands – A Sleep & a Forgetting

What we know: Montreal indie rock outfit Islands stripped down for its 2009 breakthrough record, Vapours. With A Sleep & a Forgetting, the band’s fourth album, the aesthetics and sensibilities are torn apart even further to reveal the rawest nerve, resulting in an LP of potent, minimalist instrumentation and low-key, yet sultry, lyrical content about falling out of love and listening to the radio. Even with so much of the band and frontman Nick Thorburn exposed, they’ve never seemed as powerfully succinct or alluringly lethal.

What CoS says: You’ll be hard-pressed to find anyone doing so very much with so very little in 2012.  –Chris Coplan

Due out: February 14th via ANTI- [Pre-Order]

Islands – “This Is Not a Song”

Sleigh Bells – Reign of Terror

What we know: Noise pop duo Sleigh Bells set the blogosphere aflame with Treats and its cranked-to-11 hooks and reckless abandon. As a follow-up, Reign of Terror will seemingly hone the pair’s sound, as evidenced by the return of producer Shane Stoneback and the shred-tastic bombast of lead single “Born to Lose”. Stock up on your extra-strength earplugs posthaste.

What CoS says: Why fix what ain’t broke? The group has a fresh enough sound to ride through at least this record before something may have to give musically. –Chris Coplan

Due out: February 21st via Mom+Pop Music [Pre-Order]

School of Seven Bells – Ghostory

What we know: Ghostory is more gothed out than anything School of Seven Bells has done before. The record pulses with dance beats reminiscent of Front 242 death disco, the duo’s signature misty sound, and more ghost imagery than you can shake a proton pack at. Singer Alejandra Deheza spells “P-R-E-D-A-T-O-R” breathily on record centerpiece “Low Times”, a moment that’s as terrifying as it is beautiful.

What CoS says: It should be interesting to see how SVIIB fares as just a core duo without vocalist Claudia Deheza, singer Alejandra’s twin sister. Claudia left the group abruptly in 2010, so it should be interesting to see how her departure might affect its songwriting, lyrically and structurally. –Paul de Revere

Due out: February 28th via Vagrant/Ghostly International

School of Seven Bells – “The Night”

Andrew Bird – Break It Yourself

What we know: It’s been almost three years since Andrew Bird’s last outing, 2009′s Noble Beast. He’s accomplished a lot over that time (including a recent installment at Chicago’s Museum of Contemporary Art), though he’s waited this long to produce a proper LP. Surprisingly, he’s had the material all along. Based on the album’s tracklist for Break It Yourself, we’ve heard up to at least six of the 14 tracks live, already: “Desperation Breeds…”, “Danse Caribe”, “Give It Away”, “Lazy Projector”, “Lusitania” (feat. St. Vincent), and “Hole in the Ocean Floor”.

What CoS says: Bird has proven he’s a virtuoso five times over. He doesn’t need to shatter any barriers this far into his career. So, if this stuff sounds as familiar to you as it does to us, then you’re probably not too surprised. If you’re looking for something new, well, let’s see how the other tracks fare. Whatever the case, it’ll be a very cozy listen. –Michael Roffman

Due out: March 7th via Mom + Pop Music [Pre-Order]

Bowerbirds – The Clearing

What we know: Phillip Moore and Beth Tacular have always bounced their sound off of the roots of American music, and while their LP3 echoes with similar tones, it’s a richer production this time around. “Tuck the Darkness In” earns its crescendos, flips a catchy melody into the air, and stays rooted.

What CoS says: Bowerbirds take the faux out of the folk that’s around these days and get down to the core of their songs without cluttering it with smoke and mirrors. Here’s hoping they can still make the wounds as well as salve them. –Jeremy D. Larson

Due out: March 6th via Dead Oceans

Bowerbirds – “Tuck the Darkness In”

Ceremony – Zoo

What we know: For their first record with the famed Matador Records, California hardcore outfit Ceremony enlisted producer John Goodmanson (Bikini Kill, Simple Plan) with an aim to “refine their jagged sound while continuing to pursue themes of exurban alienation and confinement.” To give listeners a taste of the new record ahead of its official release date, Ceremony will release “Hysteria” b/w “I’m a Bug” (Urinals cover) on February 7th.

What CoS says: If “Hysteria” is any indication, Zoo will be a tamer—if no less enjoyable—affair than their previously more abrasive albums. –Harley Brown

Due out: March 6th via Matador

Ceremony – “Hysteria”

The Magnetic Fields – Love at the Bottom of the Sea 

What we know:  Stephin Merritt says he’ll be returning to more synth-heavy and acoustic arrangements on The Magnetic Fields’ 10th LP—their first with Merge since 1999’s classic collection 69 Love Songs—with his usual cast of collaborators: Claudia Gonson, Sam Davol, John Woo, Shirley Simms, Johny Blood, and Daniel Handler (aka Lemony Snicket!). Signature amusing and quirky song titles abound— “All She Cares About Is Mariachi”, “Infatuation (With Your Gyration)”, and “I’ve Run Away to Join the Fairies”.

What CoS says: More inventive and endlessly catchy pop treasures from the man responsible for some of the greatest pop records of the last 20 years. –Lainna Fader

Due out: March 6th via Merge [Pre-Order]

The Men – Open Your Heart

What we know: The kind of volume that was on Leave Home, their previous album released not eight months ago, is hard to eclipse. But leave it to The Men to plumb even deeper into their milk crates to continue moving forward with their sound. There’s a bit of country, a bit of kraut-rock, and some ’70s AOR, and the whole thing still stays jagged in the best ways.

What CoS says: It’s a short turn-around time, but nothing on this album sounds tossed off. Even if some of the razors are less sharp this time around, it works. –Jeremy D. Larson

Due out: March 6th via Sacred Bones

The Shins – Port of Morrow

What we know: It’s been a solid five years since their last album. James Mercer is the only original member in the lineup. They’ll release it on his new label, Aural Apothecary. So, things have changed. But so far, based on three of the album’s 10 tracks (which includes the recently unveiled “Simple Song”), The Shins remain intact.

What CoS says: Despite the shake up in the lineup, there really isn’t much working against this album. Sure, Broken Bells wasn’t an awe-inspiring juggernaut, but it had its moments. With Mercer at home now, and seemingly alone (at least in the studio), one has to believe this will be, at the very least, a solid follow-up to Wincing the Night Away. –Michael Roffman

Due out: March 20th via Aural Apothecary and Columbia Records [Pre-Order]

Spiritualized – Sweet Heart, Sweet Light

What we know: When he debuted some new songs at Royal Albert Hall in October, Jason Pierce had a choir and orchestra in tow. He’s said the album “encompassed all I love in rock ‘n’ roll music. It’s got everything from Brötzmann and Berry right through to Dennis and Brian Wilson.”

What CoS says: The seminal Ladies and Gentlemen We Are Floating in Space is an intimidating high-water mark. It sounds like his heart’s in the right place for this to rise to that level. Dicey live recordings of new material aren’t the best gauge, though, so we’re still holding out for a studio preview. –Jeremy D. Larson

Due Out: UK on March 19th via Double Six. U.S. release is set for sometime in March via Fat Possum

“Hey Jane” (Live):

Alabama Shakes – TBD

Photo by Ben Kaye

What we know: With a hearty co-sign from Patterson Hood of The Drive-By Truckers, Alabama Shakes are off to inject the soul of the south into the mainstream with their first official studio LP.

What CoS says: To prove Alabama Shakes can ride longer waves than those created by the press lauded upon them at CMJ and subsequent live shows, the Dap-Tone/Muscle Shoals acolytes are going to have to show the world they can write some memorable songs.  – Jeremy D. Larson

Due out: April via ATO Records

Tyler, The Creator – Wolf

Photo by Heather Kaplan

What we know: The veracity of his pull-quotes is always dubious, but Mr. Tyler Okonma told SPIN that his new album Wolf will be due out in April. He said of his third LP, “Talking about rape and cutting bodies up, it just doesn’t interest me anymore… What interests me is making weird hippie music for people to get high to. I’ll brag a little more, talk about money and buying shit. But not like any other rapper, I’ll be a smart-ass about it…”

What CoS says: If Tyler wants to make a psych-rap record, that’s at least interesting, but I have this nagging feeling that he’s going to be an insufferable smart-ass about it. –Jeremy D. Larson

Due out: April (?)

Regina Spektor – What We Saw from the Cheap Seats

What we know: Regina Spektor continues her reign as one of the best goddamn singer-songwriters of her era. The new record’s title is perhaps an indicator that she’s continuing her music’s frequent theme of plucky underdog-isms.

What CoS says: Except for a live record, Regina Spektor was awfully quiet over the last two years. In November, she announced the release of What We Saw from the Cheap Seats without much indication of what it’ll sound like, but her signature cute quirks will likely abound. It will be her sixth studio full-length, her latest since 2009′s Far. –Paul de Revere

Due Out: May

Bruce Springsteen & the E Street Band – TBA

What we know: Surprisingly, very little. A producer has yet to be confirmed, same with the E Street Band. The Boss’s follow-up to 2009′s The Promise remains a slight mystery. Based on the album’s announcement – “We want you to know that the music is almost done (but still untitled), we have almost settled on the release date (but not quite yet), and that we are all incredibly excited about everything that we’re planning for 2012″ – there’s a heavy use of “we,” so one has to believe this will again be an E Street effort.

What CoS says: With the loss of Clarence Clemmons, already this will be a fairly controversial effort for Springsteen. On that note, it should also be quite emotional. If you know your E Street history, you’ll remember it’s only been a little over four years since the death of Danny Federici as well. Throw in another political race next year, Occupy Wall Street, and half a dozen recent collaborations… well, this album could go anywhere. Fingers crossed The Boss doesn’t pen a follow-up anthem titled “King of the Supermarket”. –Michael Roffman

Due out: Spring

Dirty Projectors – TBA

What we know: Figurehead David Longstretch took a Vernon-esque approach with this Bitte Orca follow-up. Sequestered for the most part alone in an unoccupied house in rural New York, Longstretch crafted creepy songs “about horror and fear,” including the “Thriller”-esque “About to Die”. He’s also said the record leans towards the band’s stripped-down Björk collaboration, Mount Wittenberg Orca.

What CoS says: Bitte Orca was a breakthrough, filled with lively and eccentric musicality. It rightfully earned a perfect score in our review almost three years ago. Fingers crossed that this apparently subtler and more haunted effort still shares qualities with their adored previous release. –Ben Kaye

Due out: Spring

Rufus Wainwright – Out of the Game

What we know: Rufus Wainwright’s last two projects have been an opera and a dramatic album performed start-to-finish as a song cycle. It seems appropriate that he should follow with an excursion back into pop, and his upcoming Mark Ronson-produced album promises to be Wainwright in all his mass marketable glory. Featuring backup from the Dap-Kings, Wilco’s Nels Cline, and Wainwright’s equally talented sister Martha, “there’s this kind of anchor of guys sitting around jamming. And it’s very sexy,” Wainwright told Stereogum.

What CoS says: Wainwright’s had a turbulent few years, including the death of his mother and the birth of his daughter. To see all that energy channeled into pop music will be interesting, and to hear it belted out by one of the marquee voices of our time will surely be enthralling. Wainwright is a consummate showman, and with this supporting cast, Out of the Game has miles of promise. –Megan Ritt

Due out: Spring

How to Destroy Angels – TBA

What we know: This past fall, How to Destroy Angels had originally planned on releasing a full-length LP, at least according to Reznor. The most fans received was a Brian Ferry cover and, well, a 174-minute soundtrack for David Fincher’s The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo. Shortly after the soundtrack’s release, Reznor told Rolling Stone that a new LP was due out “[probably] in the first quarter of next year.” As far as direction goes, Reznor says they “were influenced by early Cabaret Voltaire – it’s very deconstructed rhythmically and more textural.” Vague, but something.

What CoS says: Reznor works in mysterious ways. He also never stops working. So, it’s likely that we’ll see this pop up while we’re sleeping sometime, or perhaps when we’re on a lunch break. Who knows? If it’s anything like their recent soundtrack work – hey, it’s essentially the same team – one can expect something wild. Or just another helping of music to carry you from the gym to the train, from the coffee shop to the sadistic caretaker to the… wait, what? –Michael Roffman

Due out: ”First Quarter”

Animal Collective – TBA

Photo by Frank Mojica

What we know: Notorious for touring on largely new, unrecorded material, it’s entirely possible that songs from AC’s ninth album (and their first since 2009′s Merriweather Post Pavilion) have been floating around in various states of gestation in bootlegs. That said, Dave “Avey Tare” Portner let a few details slip in interviews promoting his solo work, including the fact that they’ve got at least 10 songs written and that they’re having fun “jamming.” He’s also described their recent live shows as a “more immediate… hard-hitting set with more rhythm.” But these are the guys who brought you ODDSAC, so you never quite know what’s coming next.

What CoS says: As a band that seems to evolve more organically and dramatically from disc to disc than almost any other, it’s hard to imagine Animal Collective sticking too closely to the formula that made Merriweather such a crossover smash. Either way, moving from cult heroes to indie megastars over the past 10 or so years means that both the demand and the stakes have never been higher. –Adam Kivel

Due out: TBA

Atoms for Peace – TBA

What we know: Back in October, Thom Yorke spun some heads when he told Rolling Stone there would be an Atoms for Peace record by the end of the year. As is the case with most records on here titled TBA, that wasn’t the case. His excuse for the delay then was that “it’s not good enough yet.” Longtime collaborator and Atoms member Nigel Godrich added, “The idea was to generate the music, then record the band. We did that. Some of it worked. We also went back to some of the electronic stuff. It’s still in flux. We’re waiting for the lightning bolt to strike.” Since then, it’s been clear skies, apparently. To get an idea of what they worked on, take a listen to “Judge, Jury, and Executioner”, which the band premiered during their 2010 tour – their first collaborative track.

What CoS says: It’s been a long time coming. Someone stand outside the studio with an umbrella, please.  –Michael Roffman

Due out: TBA

The Avalanches – TBA

What we know: This will they/won’t they tension bullshit is getting older than a bad sitcom. But this tweet is the closest thing we’ve had to something yet. Keep the dream alive.

What CoS says: Teasing this album is getting less funny as the years go on. But as with most myths, if you stop believing in it, it dies. –Jeremy D. Larson

Due out: TBA

Best Coast – TBA

What we know: Surf-rock romanticists Best Coast may have recently released drummer Ali Koehler, but they also previously managed to nab legendary producer Jon Brion (The Crystal Method, Kanye West) for album No. 2 (seems like a fair trade). For this record, frontwoman Bethany Cosentino has promised less “melodrama” and more maturity thanks to her drastically different lifestyle. That sentiment, mixed with Brion’s avant pop style, should make for one decidedly fresh take on young love and all its ups and downs.

What CoS says: The band’s sound on Crazy for You caught people’s attention despite the decided immaturity of the album’s lyrical content (or perhaps that helped). We’re interested to see how their cutesy sound holds up with an infusion of adulthood. –Chris Coplan

Due out: TBA

The Beach Boys – TBA

What we know: Brian Wilson has returned. So has Al Jardine. Even David Marks. It’s a full-scale reunion, all for the group’s 50th anniversary. While we’ve only heard a re-recording of “Do It Again”, Beach Boys sessions veteran Eddie Bayer says, “Brian’s new creations are just unbelievable.” What’s more, Mike Love, who has a long storied history of opposing Wilson, agreed, stating, “He hasn’t lost the ability to do what he does best.” So, there’s a positive outlook on this.

What CoS says: For the past few years, Wilson has been issuing covers albums (including last year’s abysmal Disney record). However, his last solo record, 2008′s That Lucky Old Sun, was a sugary-sweet classic that shines bright in his highly celebrated discography. If Wilson’s been holding out on songs for this LP and he’s supported by the vocals of Love, Bruce Johnston, Al Jardine, and even David Marks, then we’re in for a tasty, nostalgic treat. Let’s just hope it isn’t Stars and Stripes, Volume 2. –Michael Roffman

Due out: TBA

Cat Power – TBA

What we know: It’s been four years since Chan Marshall’s last album, Jukebox, a collection of mostly covers that furthered the transition from the raw, minimal Cat Power of the ’90s to a polished, blues-evoking sound. In a 2010 interview with Rolling Stone, Marshall revealed that she was attempting to play all the instruments herself on the next Cat Power release, and a recent Facebook posting intimated that the new album is almost finished.

What CoS says: If the smoky soul exhibited in the new songs debuted on her 2011 tour or the seven-minute, eerily echoed reinvention of “King Rides By” are any indication, then the new Cat Power should prove well worth the wait. –Frank Mojica

Due out: TBA

Cibo Matto – TBA

What we know: Cibo Matto split in 2001 after two albums, but Yuka Honda and Miho Hatori joined forces again in December 2010 for Honda’s 50th birthday and three months later for a tsunami benefit concert. A reunion tour was subsequently announced, along with news that a new album would surface sometime in 2012. As of press time, the new album does not have an official title or release date.

What CoS says: A reunion that results in new songs and not just a trip down memory lane? Yes, please. During their brief “YEAH BASICALLY” tour, the duo mixed two new songs, “Tenth Floor Ghost Girl” and “Check In”, into the well-received sets, hinting that the magic that made Cibo Matto so fun 16 years ago has not been lost. –Frank Mojica

Due out: TBA

D’Angelo – TBA (Working Title: James River)

What we know: If the neo-soul genre had a Holy Grail, it’d be D’Angelo’s third album. With the release of the immensely powerful Voodoo in 2000, the world has been waiting with bated breath ever since for the follow-up, which frequent collaborator ?uestlove has recently confirmed is in the home stretch of completion. But after D’Angelo’s various, er, extracurricular activities have led to a decade-long cycle of delays and other such promises, the music world’s left hoping for a miracle. How fitting would it be if this record FINALLY arrived just in time for the End of Days?!

What CoS says: While probably not a part of the final tracklist, a demo of D’Angelo covering Soundgarden’s “Black Hole Sun” recently surfaced. Not only was it weird and catchy, it helped generate a lot of buzz. Ya know, like the kind used for promoting something… –Chris Coplan

Due out: TBA

Daughter – TBA

What we know: Elena Tonra, aka Daughter, set pulses racing in 2011 with two delicious taster EPs. A full debut album is expected to follow later this summer or fall. She and her band are hoping to hit a UK studio for their first set of sessions in early spring.

What CoS says: Daughter has a number of new songs up her sleeve and, reviving the long held rock tradition of getting it together in the country, has hired a tiny cottage in a hidden corner of SW England this month to begin to work them up. The album should contain new material with perhaps a couple of reworked songs from the earlier EPs. –Tony Hardy

Due out: TBA

Fiona Apple – TBA

What we know: Rare live performances with preferred collaborators and several benefit and cover songs here and there have more than whetted the appetites of any Fiona Apple fan over the recent years; they must be a ravenous and wary bunch, considering her last album, Extraordinary Machine, almost never saw the light of day after its demos leaked. Rumors swirled for an album last year, fueled by those claiming to have heard it – more concrete news comes from Apple herself, jokingly admitting onstage last November that she had trouble remembering any new songs because “they’ve been done for a fucking year.”

What CoS says: Around the turn of the millennium, this powerhouse singer-songwriter was omnipresent, crooning her unique brand of melancholy, ruffling feathers at award shows, and upholding a strong musical integrity at such a young age. Now, more than a decade later, and only one album under her belt since then, Apple would have to stand distinct and tall next to her current imitators, both good and bad, to make any mark at all. –David DiLillo

Due out: TBA

Grizzly Bear – TBA

Photo by Heather Kaplan

What we know: Psych-folk outfit Grizzly Bear literally rewrote the rules of indie music and its cultural spread and impact with 2009′s Veckatimest, so it’s no surprise that the band would want to take their time with the follow-up. However, since announcing work on the album in May 2011, it’s been all but radio silence from Camp Grizzly save for apologies for delays (blame multi-instrumentalist Chris Taylor’s CANT side project and frontman Ed Droste getting married). However, with a new year comes a new Facebook message of dedication, and the band is looking to make 2012/2013 the Year of the Bear.

What CoS says: Can lighting strike twice for the boys from Brooklyn? Lots of bands would crumble underneath such pressure, but Grizzly Bear seem to have a more solid foundation of devoted fans to keep them afloat. The real question, though, will be whether they stick with the Veckatimest formula or go for something brand-new sonically, thus expanding their skill set while also increasing the risk of an unsatisfied public. –Chris Coplan

Due out: TBA

Kanye & Friends – G.O.O.D Music Album -TBA

What we know: One of three albums West might be dropping this year (the others being his sixth solo album and a second full-length with Jay-Z), G.O.O.D. Music will also feature his G.O.O.D. Music kindred Big Sean, Kid Cudi, John Legend, Common, Pusha T, and others. However, it’s not yet known how the album will be carried out; maybe we’ll get a bunch of posse cuts, like what pervaded West’s pre-My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy G.O.O.D. Fridays series.

What CoS says: If G.O.O.D. Music is similar to MBDTF or West’s 2011 Jay-Z team-up, Watch the Throne, expect ostentatious greatness. –Mike Madden

Due out: TBA

The Knife – TBA

What we know: Though it’s provided one of the most single-handedly influential records of the last decade, The Knife has taken six years off since the release of their 2006 opus, Silent Shout. The Dreijer siblings have kept rather busy during their time off, though, between Karin’s acclaimed debut solo outing as Fever Ray, Olof’s stint as a minimal electro producer under the name Oni Ayhun, and the pair’s turn as operatic songwriters on 2010′s Tomorrow in a Year.

What CoS says: There isn’t too much to go off of yet, but all signs point to an effort as ghoulishly delightful as Silent Shout and Fever Ray. –Mike Madden

Due out: TBA

Lotus Plaza – TBA

What we know: Having released an impressive split 7″ in 2011 to compliment his Lotus Plaza alias’s hazy, but beautiful, first LP from two years prior, Deerhunter guitarist Locket Pundt remains stoic and reserved as ever. An upcoming Atlanta show in March, recent Twitter buzz of mastering company The Lodge “having way too much fun working on Lotus Plaza”, and Kranky Records stating bluntly on Facebook “any day now,” however, all point towards an imminent sophomore album.

What CoS says: Both Deerhunter’s and fellow noisemaker Bradford Cox’s most recent albums excelled because of their embrace of the eerily straightforward; with any luck, Pundt will mine some of his more decipherable ideas featured on The Floodlight Collective and put them to exquisite use. –David DiLillo

Due out: TBA

Madlib & Freddie Gibbs – TBA

What we know: Back in late November at Madlib’s Medicine Show tour stop in San Francisco, the producer revealed plans for a new collaboration with L.A.-based, Gary, Ind.-raised gangsta rapper Freddie Gibbs, starting with a six-track Thuggin’ EP on Madlib’s Madlib Invazion label. It’s yet another killer joint venture for Madlib—see DOOM (Madvillainy), the late J Dilla (Jaylib), and Strong Arm Steady (In Search Of Stoney Jackson)—and a chance for Gibbs to explore new territory post-Cold Day in Hell before the release of the album he’s finishing for Young Jeezy’s CTE imprint. The duo’s as-of-yet untitled album is scheduled for early 2012.

What CoS says: If the EP’s first single is any indication, expect to hear Gibbs’ rugged rhythms detailing brutal tales of the young, desperate, and reckless over Madlib’s masterful mix of swirling psychedelia and deep soul grooves on MadGibbs’ debut album. –Lainna Fader

Due out: TBA

Mumford & Sons – TBA

What we know: In a recent interview with Rolling Stone, band member Ted Dwane described Mumford & Sons’ much anticipated follow-up to Sigh No More as “doom folk, kind of Black Sabbath meets Nick Drake.” There may be a degree of mischief in that remark that’s matched by comparative silence from the band’s record label. However, judging from new songs like “Ghosts” and “Lovers Eyes” debuted live in 2011, the new album is not likely to stray that much from the band’s core territory.

What CoS says: Even with a planned shift to the darker side of the musical spectrum, the band has a lot to celebrate after a giant-sized last couple of years. That dichotomy should be interesting to absorb when the record hits stores. –Tony Hardy

Due out: TBA

Nas – Life Is Good

What we know: Rumors about Life Is Good, Nas’ 10th studio album and his last at Def Jam, have been flying around for a while, but the only detail known for certain about it is that the previously released single “Nasty” will be on it. Anything else you’ve heard about the album – like, say, that AZ will be on it or that RZA will have a major hand in the production – is probably mere speculation.

What CoS says: If “Nasty” and Nas’ recent Common collaboration “Ghetto Dreams” are indicators, Life Is Good could be one of the Queens legend’s best albums of late. –Mike Madden

Due Out: TBA

Nas – “Nasty”

No Doubt – TBA

What we know: The last No Doubt album, Rock Steady, hit stores in December 2001 (does it not feel waaaay longer, though?). Even with the band at work on the album since May 2010, details are still decidedly sparse: The album promises to be another poppy synthesis of reggae and ska, resulting in song titles like “Settle Down” and “One More Summer”, all heaped together by a returning Mark “Spike” Stent (who also produced Rock Steady). Collaborations with dance hall wunderkinds Diplo and Switch show signs of some new life, but how those will work in tandem with the band’s tried-and-true stuff is as big a mystery as the remainder of this LP.

What CoS says: The more things change, the more No Doubt seemingly stays the same. That musical homogeneity is comforting in a way, like an old blanket or an ex-girlfriend you can’t get rid of. –Harley Brown

Due out: TBA

Pearl Jam – TBA

Photo by Jeremy Larson

What we know: This and that. Last March, Jeff Ament told Billboard, “We did a whole bunch of demos and everybody’s got a disc of 25 [songs] right now,” stating the band would hit the studio the next month and that they hoped “to get something done this year.”

What CoS says: That didn’t happen, but do you blame them? With a festival, a book, a documentary, a soundtrack, and late-night appearances, it’s no surprise we’re not listening to Pearl Jam’s 10th studio LP already. But with the festivities now over and a looming European tour, one starts to believe they’ll need something new to promote. Like, say, 12 of those aforementioned tracks? We’ve already heard a potential track with “Olé”. Or, maybe that was just a birthday anthem. You never know… –Michael Roffman

Due out: TBA

Peal Jam – “Olé”

Phoenix – TBA

What we know: Last we heard from the Franco-pop savants, they were recording an as-yet-untitled fifth album with a release date to be announced. We do know that Phoenix has been playing with “the dad of a friend’s orchestra” in Byron Bay, AU, to expand their percussive range. According to frontman Thomas Mars, “Drums are the DNA of our music, ‘cause we’d like to go somewhere else, we’d like to change that DNA.” He also said that so far the album can be analogized to the high-speed French commuter rail TGV.

What CoS says: Mars has been covering LP #5′s bases with catchall descriptors “nostalgic,” “futuristic,” “experimental,” and “minimal.” Considering the pressure to follow Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix’s Grammy Award-winning success, it’s no wonder he’s playing it safe. –Harley Brown

Due out: TBA

Queens of the Stone Age – TBA

What we know: Rockaholic Josh Homme spent the better part of 2011 touring behind the re-release of Queens of the Stone Age’s eponymous 1998 debut, including a double shot at the PJ20 Festival. He also found some time apparently with the QotSA lineup as it stands to record their sixth album, their first in nearly five years since Era Vulgaris. When it will be out is anyone’s guess; hanger-on Alain Johannes tweeted in November that he “can’t say exactly when… but it’s a really good start.” 

What CoS says: Homme told BBC Radio 1 around Glastonbury that QotSA doesn’t “feel they have anything to prove,” implying it’ll probably be more of the same old, same old from them. When it’s loud, badass rock, though, we’re more than OK with this. –Gilles LeBlanc

Due out: TBA

Sigur Rós – TBA

What we know: Well, if we round up all the adjectives from each respective member (culled from an interview with The Wall Street Journal, of all places), we know Sigur Rós’ sixth LP is: “ambient”, “introverted”, “floaty”, “minimal”, and essentially a “slow takeoff toward something.” So, it’s another offering from Sigur Rós. Here’s a fun little tidbit: The band recorded in a studio that was once occupied by a swimming pool. Could we add “aquatic” to that list? We’ll see come spring.

What CoS says: The group’s last studio LP, 2008′s Með suð í eyrum við spilum endalaust, found the Icelandic troupe taking a few turns, even adding some English to the mix. It still worked splendidly. Everything else that’s followed since – Jónsi’s 2010 solo LP, Go, Jónsi’s Cameron Crowe-assisted soundtrack, We Bought a Zoo - has left nothing but a ruby-colored, bloody trail. One that doesn’t taste like nickel, but rather sophisticated cakes. Much like the trio’s lyrics, that right there is pretty incomprehensible. But, it still gets the point across. Rest assured, we’ll be soundtracking our lives to the new LP by summer. –Michael Roffman

Due out: Spring

Soundgarden – TBA

Photo by Karina Halle

What we know: New material from Soundgarden has been rumored ever since Chris Cornell tweeted they were coming back on January 1st, 2010 from an extended hiatus. Things really started to heat up last February when the band stated that their goal for 2011 was to “make a record.” After a retrospective compilation (Telephantasm), Record Store Day exclusive, live album (Live on I-5), and an acoustic Songbook solo effort from Cornell, it looks like we’re actually going to get something fresh from the Seattleites as soon as this spring.

What CoS says: The grunge revival love-in is sure to continue for a good while yet, although guitarist Kim Thayil has tempered expectations that the album may not exactly be of the genre Soundgarden helped pioneer. We will keep our ears open with interest. –Gilles LeBlanc

Due out: TBA

WHY? – TBA

Photo by Jeremy D. Larson

What we know: In the summer of 2011, WHY? announced a series of shows played on a baby grand piano, where they would be testing out material for an upcoming album. A hand injury forced many shows to be rescheduled or canceled, but some fans were lucky enough to catch the new songs onstage in December of last year.

What CoS says: As Eskimo Snow was recorded during the sessions for the acclaimed Alopecia, this will be the first collection of all-new material WHY? has recorded in four years. Yoni Wolf’s songwriting seems to improve with each album, and we’re eager to hear how he’s developed over that time. –Austin Trunick

Due out: TBA

The xx – TBA

What we know: The xx seems to have retreated back into the void from which it burst forth with mind-blowing, CoS Top Star-earning debut XX, emerging (with the exception of Jamie xx, who’s appeared on anything from Take Care to We’re New Here and remixed everything else) only to say that, yes, they really are recording a sophomore album, and here’s demo “Open Eyes” to prove it.

What CoS says: There’s been a two-year buildup and the danger of a sophomore slump, but no pressure, guys. Take your time. –Harley Brown

Due out: TBA

The xx – “Open Eyes” (demo)

Yeasayer – TBA

Photo by Carson O’Shoney

What we know: Loads of bands like to worry about one album per release cycle. Brooklyn psych-pop crew Yeasayer isn’t like other acts in more than a few ways. Discussing the group’s third album with Spin recently, frontman Chris Keating said the group recorded some 22 songs, which may be split up over two separate albums, “one that’s the real album with three-and-a-half to four minute pop songs, and another that’s more like a soundtrack and released on the Internet.” Even better still, Keating described the material recorded as a “demented R&B” album, like an “Aaliyah album if you played it backwards and slowed it down. Or David Bowie’s Lodger. Those two are major influences.” Whether that last bit’s a joke or not (perhaps even a half-truth?), the band continues to redefine how appealing being weird can truly be.

What CoS says: Based on 2010′s Odd Blood and these newsy tidbits, the outfit is getting closer and closer to a more complicated sound. With every catchy hook and pop-tastic beat they record, the songs become further entrenched in their own sense of intricacy and obscurity. LP #3 should be a shining example of that dichotomy. –Chris Coplan

Due out: TBA

If you believe the words of ?uestlove, we’ll be hearing a lot more from D’Angelo in the New Year. In the meantime, check out this recently surfaced demo of the neo-soul maestro repainting and reworking Soundgarden’s “Black Hole Sun”, supposedly recorded in 2010 (via Headnodz).

Since 2007, Record Store Day has been considered the “Black Friday” for music enthusiasts – now it actually is. On November 25th, the same fanatics that camp out on that fateful third Saturday in April will have to brave the cold November hours. The complete list of exclusive releases is available on Record Store Day’s website, but we listed out some of our favorites below.

–  The Beastie Boys will release a vinyl deluxe edition of their most recent LP Hot Sauce Committee Pt 2. The set, limited to 5,000 copies in the U.S., includes a 60 page hardbound book, a 5.1 version of the album, videos, and more.

– The Black Keys will release their new single, “Lonely Boy”, on 12″ vinyl.

– Bon Dylan’s 1965 single, “Can You Please Crawl Out Your Window?”, will be packaged in a 7″ vinyl box set. The set is limited to 5,000 copies in the U.S.

– Ryan Adams will release a new 7″ single featuring two unreleased demos, “Do I Wait” and “Darkness”. The release is limited to 3,000 copies in the U.S.

– The Beatles’ compilation The Singles will be released as a 7″ vinyl box set. The set is limited to 10,000 copies in the U.S., and 5,700 copies international.

– Kings of Leon will package together their early albums Youth & Young Manhood, Aha Shake Heartbreak, Because of The Times, and a fourth LP made up of unreleased studio and live tracks picked by the band themselves in a 4 LP vinyl box set titled The Early Vinyl. The set is limited to 3,250 copies in the U.S., and 1,200 international.

– John Lennon’s album Imagine will be packaged in a 40th anniversary vinyl box set. The set is limited to 5,000 copies in the U.S., and 1,700 copies international.

– Red Hot Chili Peppers’ album Blood Sugar Sex Magik will be reissued on a double 12″ red vinyl. The set is limited to 5,170 copies in the U.S.

– Soundgarden will release an EP titled Live on I-5: Before The Doors Soundcheck on 10″ vinyl. The five-track effort comprises soundcheck performances from the band’s 1996 tour. The set is limited to 4,000 copies in the U.S.

– Nirvana’s 10″ singles from Nevermind will be collected together for the first time, housed in an individually numbered slip case. The set is limited to 5,000 copies in the U.S.

– Wilco will release “Speak Into The Rose”, a b-side from their new LP The Whole Love, on 10″ vinyl.

Update: It’s not yet listed on the Record Store Day website, but according to an issued press release, The Doors will be releasing a “one-of-a-kind limited, serial-numbered box set” to commemorate the 40th anniversary of their album L.A. Woman. The package includes classic tracks “The Changeling”, “Riders on the Storm”, and “Love Her Madly”, backed with newly-discovered and never-before-heard alternate takes of each song, and a fourth single of never before-released studio banter. The box artwork will also include the original Messianic image of the naked woman nailed to the telephone pole used for the album’s inner sleeve.

The 21st annual Big Day Out music festival hits cities throughout Australia and New Zealand during late January and early February of 2012  – which of course is summer over there. So if you’re looking for a winter getaway, this is it.

Today, the festival unveiled the first 20 acts set to appear and Kanye West, Soundgarden, and Kasabian lead the way. Other early notables include Girl Talk, My Chemical Romance, Odd Future, Battles, Best Coast, Röyksopp, Architecture in Helsinki, Boy & Bear, and Mariachi El Bronx. In all, some 60 acts will fill out this year’s bill, so stay tuned to our Big Day Out page on Festival Outlook for updates.

Specific ticket information and on-sale dates can be found on the festival’s website.

Big Day Out 2012 Dates:
01/20 – Auckland, NZ @ Mt Smart Stadium
01/22 – Gold Coast, AU @ Gold Coast Parklands
01/26 – Sydney, AU @ Sydney Showground
01/29 – Melbourne, AU @ Flemington Racecourse
02/03 – Adelaide, AU @ Showground
02/05 – Perth, AU @ Claremont Showground

But by far the greatest thing keeping Cornell on his toes these days is the recent reformation of Soundgarden, which has resulted in a stunningly successful tour of North America and a new album that’s due in the spring of 2012. Consequence of Sound‘s own Karina Halle caught up with Cornell while he was in New York City to discuss everything from choosing a tour setlist to why certain albums suffer in the current digital age of music.

How has the reunion tour been for you?

There are a lot of different aspects of it. The first one being able to share the stage with the same people that I became a real musician with. The whole formation of me as a songwriter and full-time musician came with these guys. And then we traveled the world together in so many different facets, from driving ourselves in a van to buses and planes and going all over, where I had never left Seattle, ever. It was an intense experience with these guys, and we made a lot of music as well. Our last two albums were really so long that it was only the digital age that made them single albums; they both would have been double albums. That’s all kind of overwhelming when we’re onstage, and we are playing again.

And then there’s that whole new thing, which is that it feels really great to go out and play Soundgarden songs and approach it with another 14 years of experience that we all have playing music and making records and have the old songs evolving. It’s really a living, breathing animal; it’s alive again, and it’s pretty amazing. It’s very natural. The worst fears would be to be that band that has been broken up for awhile and then gets back together, and we’re just kind of struggling to pull off what we used to do. And this isn’t that. This is evolving and moving as if we never skipped a beat. And that’s what it feels like…really great.

At what point during the reuniting did you feel, you know what, this is the right thing to do?

It was really just a matter of making the decision to do it. Once we got in that room together… it was nothing but fun trying to figure out what is the best way to remember some of these songs. Mostly it was just playing them, and all the parts just kind of came back to our fingers.

That was a really big deal for me, because I hadn’t gone back to listen to that music much, and I was really happy and surprised at how great those arrangements were and how smart we were as record producers and songwriters. There’s a lot of stuff going on and layers, and we had to make a lot of decisions, and it felt like while I was listening to it, they were all the right ones. You never know, sitting and making records and writing songs, how you’re going to feel about it 20 years later. You know, like it’s your baby pictures, and you look so much better now. But I didn’t have that feeling at all. We were great, and that time evolving into the band that we were when we split up… we did a lot in a short period of time.

And a band that can write and play “Jesus Christ Pose” and then also something like “Zero Chance” or “Black Hole Sun” and do both while in both worlds completely authentically, I think it’s a great feat. It reminds me of The Beatles in a sense. That’s what attracted me to a band like that. They could do “Yesterday”, and they could do “Helter Skelter”, and you didn’t think it was weird.

How do you decide what songs from your repertoire to include on your setlist?

There were these other songs that we were considering playing that we either never toured on before, like “4th of July”, or a song we wouldn’t have chosen 15 years ago that kind of gained momentum over the years. So, there was that issue. Then there was the issue of that often times our best live songs weren’t the singles necessarily. A song like “Gun” is a great example; it was always really murderous live, and it was great, and we played that a lot over the years, and it was never a single. It was something that would be considered more obscure, and some of our more obscure songs are literally our best live songs, songs like “Behind the Wheel”, which is one of our best live songs we’ve ever done. It was important for us to play the songs that we felt great about playing live, as well as digging out some songs that we know people want to hear that maybe we never did before.

So regarding your new album, heavy metal is popular, as is grunge. Is there any pressure for the new Soundgarden to sound like you did back in the day?

We just naturally sound like us, like there is no way of avoiding it. It wasn’t difficult in any way. We never had to stop and consider, Will our fans like this? Not even for a second. And it doesn’t feel in any way like we are going backward; it feels very forward, and it doesn’t feel nostalgic, because it isn’t, and you know, all the new songs are all new moods, and we are naturally branching out like we always did. We went from Badmotorfinger to Superunknown to Down on the Upside, and there was a lot of branching out and testing what the boundaries of the sound of our band were and seeing what works and what’s comfortable.

We were a band that was a little hard to get. You couldn’t figure out Soundgarden by listening to only one or two songs. You had to listen to the whole album. You couldn’t figure out Soundgarden by going to one show. We weren’t as easy to package and sell, ever, and we still aren’t. But at the same time, it’s a very satisfying band to be in, and I feel really creatively confident writing music with the other three guys.

And yet, listeners tend to sample rather than purchase whole albums…

That’s a really bad thing for Soundgarden. I think it’s a bad thing for any band, to be honest. I’m not attracted to the world of recorded music that is just one song at a time. I’m not built that way. My favorite songs as a kid were the ones that weren’t on the radio. I went through a period where I was just finding Rolling Stones albums where there were songs that I had never heard before, where I could listen to songs by a band that I liked without having to hear a song I heard 10,000 times.

I also discovered at some point I would sequence albums in a particular way based on how I would listen to them. I remember placing “Black Hole Sun” as the seventh song on Superunknown because the seventh song was often my favorite one, and it was usually a deeper album track, and I never expected that that song would be a single.

I also didn’t think that people really got Soundgarden unless they would sit down and listen to an entire album. If people got the heavy side of it, we would sort of be considered this Black Sabbath throwback or a heavy metal band, and then they would miss like 90% of the rest of what we did. As a fan of music, bands that I always loved were bands that were like that. You know, if you picked out one or two songs, you were never going to get more than a fraction of what they were about musically. And I’m still that way. You know, it’ll be a sad thing if future generations don’t really have the attention span to sit down and follow a musical mood for longer than three minutes.

Back in 1991, Cameron Crowe was still riding the success of directing John Cusack’s boom box in Say Anything…, long before some emo band named themselves after his project and recorded an ODB cover song. During a movie pitch that had to have taken place in a dank Seattle bar basement pre-PowerPoint, producers aimed to cull together an ultimate grunge mixtape and tried to film footage around it wherein Generation Xers make important relationship decisions and/or have sex. After copious amounts of caffeine, Singles was born, and a certain sect of America celebrated with more coffee.*

While we’re all very familiar with the television series originally intended to be based on Singles–a sitcom titled Friends–the most famous tie-in would be its official soundtrack, backed by the film’s director who once wrote for Rolling Stone. This all-too-perfect collection/time capsule of songs includes pieces from Soundgarden (“Spoonman”, “Birth Ritual”), the Smashing Pumpkins, Pearl Jam, and a few other choice acts Kevin Smith couldn’t afford to have in Clerks two years later. Alice in Chains does appear on both compilations, though we suspect they’d have put their music on whatever paid for Staley’s drug habit at the time.

As a cinematic creation, Singles represents a lot of what love and the early 90′s music scene was like. By this time, AIDS and renewed femininity had already taken the world by storm; underground bands that many might have perceived as talentless were suddenly gods outside their garages, kicking a dead glam rocker when he’s down; angst was still a term not yet entirely cliche or riddled by teenagers pining over Nevermind 20 years down the road to feel “complete.”

Singles was released as the grunge explosion detonated, sparking a true musical movement. In the background, the unnoticed Citizen Dick lazily scoffs at the scene, because folks in their 20s were good at that in 1992. Now we just blog about our miserable job, then go back to selling Herbalife like dedicated automatons. Perhaps you’re listening to the Singles soundtrack as you read this. If so, you win. If it’s on cassette, you win by, like, a million or something.

I don’t know. I’m crashing right now.

To say the Singles soundtrack stands on its own is the world’s biggest understatement since the first “Rush Limbaugh is fat joke”; it so unwaveringly overshadows the celluloid counterpart that one seldom recalls the names of key characters from the film, yet nearly every band on the record remains synonymous with “alternative rock,” despite the Smashing Pumpkins now occasionally eliciting vomiting. (Thanks, Corgan!)

But Westerberg’s score, his two song inclusions (“Dyslexic Heart”, “Waiting for Somebody”), a double-whammy of Mudhoney and Hendrix for credibility (“Overblown”, “May This Be Love”), Ann and Nancy Wilson’s own Lovemongers covering Zeppelin (“The Battle of Evermore”), two Pearl Jam pieces once solely exclusive to this variety bag of tricks (“Breath”, “State of Love and Trust”), and PJ’s predecessor Mother Love Bone getting one somber chord in on the fun (“Chloe Dancer/Crown of Thorns”)… what’s not to love? The Smashing Pumpkins have their eight-minute “Drown” as an appropriate chaser, but you want Vedder and Cornell like Limbaugh wants cake.

That’s just what I heard on the grapevine. No, I don’t know what a “twitter” is. Are you damaged?

Another major talking point about Crowe’s Singles is the staggering abundance of cameos present. Not only does Pearl Jam appear as the faux band Citizen Dick–alongside Matt Dillon’s character, Cliff Poncier–you get performances by Soundgarden and Alice in Chains for additional sustenance. In the acting fold, we get Crowe himself as a rock journalist (as if that’s a far cry) and Eric Stoltz as a loud mime (just because). Even the acclaimed Tim Burton tags along for some reason. (Maybe he was sleepwalking. That’s how he directed Corpse Bride. I swear it.)

What’s also still enjoyable nearly 20 years later is how Crowe turned Seattle into such an enviable place to be. He takes us everywhere. You see the bizarre industrial leftovers in Gas Works Park, the tourist trapping Pike Place Market, Hendrix’s iconic grave in Greenwood Memorial Park, and the ultra-hip neighborhood of Capitol Hill, where the main apartment complex is located (and continues to sit today). It’s all in the background, but there’s just something alluring about watching the twentysomethings frolic around the Emerald City, engaging in situations that we mockingly (or self-deprecatingly?) hash tag as “firstworldproblems” today. Then again, maybe it’s just the music.

Matt Dillon’s Cliff Poncier w/ “Citizen Dick”

During a star-studded hour or two of relatively less well-known faces, some couples constantly teeter-totter from committed to commiserating, and Bridget Fonda takes orders for lattes. You can totally watch the movie on your old VCR from college if you need that summed up. I’m here to write aggrandizing remarks about the music. I’m an artist, damn it! Ask the Belgians.

To conclude, here’s a music video by Screaming Trees for posterity’s sake. We’re required by law to embed this song somewhere. I beg of you to have mercy, and thank the stars Collective Soul wasn’t a radio standard back then.

Did I mention that Cameron Crowe would later give birth to Jerry Maguire? No? It’s alright. He made Singles, and he trademarked the ultimate hopelessly romantic gesture. He gets a pass.

Cameron Crowe’s Pearl Jam Twenty debuts September 20th. Stay tuned for further coverage.

*This wording is indicative of 90′s misanthropy and not considered official canon. Please forgive my sugar-induced twitching.

Of course, Soundgarden at The Gorge would have been the ultimate selling factor in itself. But they went the extra mile, adding The Meat Puppets, Mastodon, and Queens of the Stone Age on the bill, creating one hell of memorable night that had the throngs of rock fans on the edge of delirium.

The Meat Puppets started off the show by going on stage earlier than scheduled. No time like the present, I suppose, though the jump did mean photographers missed the slot to take photos. So while I can’t show you the seminal Phoenix band doing their thing, I can tell you they put on a good show that had the crowd singing along (at least to “Lake of Fire” and “Plateau”) and was a fitting opener for the evening. Brothers Curt and Cris Kirkwood were in jovial spirits, no doubt brought on by the gorgeous scenery and the intense late afternoon sunshine.

If the crowd was sweaty and exhausted when the Meat Puppets were over, Mastodon pushed them over the top. Their set was a tight, energetic assault that blew out your ears and raised your heart rate, the perfect antidote to copious amounts of overpriced beer and heatstroke. Watching bassist Troy Sanders play between guitarists Brent Hindes and Bill Kelliher was exhilarating eye candy, propelled by the intense drumming of Brann Dailor. In short, Mastodon gnawed your face off and got more than a few people pumped up for their upcoming album, The Hunter.

From sludge metal to stoner rock, Queens of the Stone Age was next on the bill. Josh Homme and his immensely talented crew played a quick but varied set that touched on everything from rollicking “Sick, Sick, Sick” to the easy grooves of “Make it Wit Chu” and the booming, freight-train thunder of “Mexicola”. Homme was especially playful with the crowd, oozing flirty banter and flattery between songs. The burly Ginger Elvis looked especially appealing as the sun set behind the stage, sending rays of golden light over the ampitheatre, illuminating the crowd’s hazy smiles and musical stupor. Queens were sending out the good vibes and the audience returned the favor.

By the time it came for Soundgarden to take the stage, you had to wonder how they could top the bands who had already played. But the moment Chris Cornell walked out on stage, all Sexy Jesus-like with his arms raised and big smile on his face, you knew you hadn’t seen anything yet. This was Soundgarden. In their home state. After 14 years away. It hit you at how big of a deal this actually was.

And like every other Soundgarden show on the tour, the band was absolutely flawless. Cornell’s voice was transcendent. Mind-blowing. His wail floored the packed, pulsing crowd. It pushed you flat on your back and floated up into the clear night sky. Kim Thayil looked stoic in his bowler hat and zipped off memorable licks with the purest of ease while Matt Cameron was a bloody propulsion machine on the drums. Ben Shepherd’s pounding bass held down the rythym, while he added in a few rockstar moves of his own (such as tossing his bass across the stage).

The crowd absolutely ate it up. Of course there were some shitheads in the mix (I’m pretty sure Ben Shepherd ordered someone in the crowd to be killed), and security guards were straining against the barricade to hold the boisterous fans back, but overall there was this ridiculous happy atmosphere. Fans singing along to “Pretty Noose”, “Black Hole Sun,” “Outshined”, and “4th of July” would just look at each other and smile. People were hugging and telling each other they were beautiful. It was amazing. Enough so that Cornell borrowed some lucky fan’s flip-cam, got the lights turned up, and filmed everyone. The band was just so incredibly appreciative.

When their two-hour mix of hits and deep cuts finished, people were breathless, speechless and probably a little deaf. They also knew they witnessed a rare show that went beyond your usual concert experience: July 30th the dry, barren gorge was turned into a lush garden of sound.

Soundgarden Setlist:
Searching With My Good Eye Closed
Spoonman
Gun
Jesus Christ Pose
Blow Up the Outside World
The Day I Tried to Live
My Wave
Burden in My Hand
Ugly Truth
Fell on Black Days
Hunted Down
Drawing Flies
Black Hole Sun
Outshined
Rusty Cage
Head Down
Pretty Noose
Superunknown
4th of July
Encore:
Room a Thousand Years Wide
Beyond the Wheel
Slaves & Bulldozers

Photography by Karina Halle.
——

Gallery by Karina Halle

[nggallery id=245]

]]> The Hunter. From sludge metal to stoner rock, Queens of the Stone Age was next on the bill. Josh Homme and his immensely talented crew played a quick but varied set that touched on everything from rollicking "Sick, Sick, Sick" to the easy grooves of "Make it Wit Chu" and the booming, freight-train thunder of "Mexicola". Homme was especially playful with the crowd, oozing flirty banter and flattery between songs. The burly Ginger Elvis looked especially appealing as the sun set behind the stage, sending rays of golden light over the ampitheatre, illuminating the crowd's hazy smiles and musical stupor. Queens were sending out the good vibes and the audience returned the favor. By the time it came for Soundgarden to take the stage, you had to wonder how they could top the bands who had already played. But the moment Chris Cornell walked out on stage, all Sexy Jesus-like with his arms raised and big smile on his face, you knew you hadn't seen anything yet. This was Soundgarden. In their home state. After 14 years away. It hit you at how big of a deal this actually was. And like every other Soundgarden show on the tour, the band was absolutely flawless. Cornell's voice was transcendent. Mind-blowing. His wail floored the packed, pulsing crowd. It pushed you flat on your back and floated up into the clear night sky. Kim Thayil looked stoic in his bowler hat and zipped off memorable licks with the purest of ease while Matt Cameron was a bloody propulsion machine on the drums. Ben Shepherd's pounding bass held down the rythym, while he added in a few rockstar moves of his own (such as tossing his bass across the stage). The crowd absolutely ate it up. Of course there were some shitheads in the mix (I'm pretty sure Ben Shepherd ordered someone in the crowd to be killed), and security guards were straining against the barricade to hold the boisterous fans back, but overall there was this ridiculous happy atmosphere. Fans singing along to "Pretty Noose", "Black Hole Sun," "Outshined", and "4th of July" would just look at each other and smile. People were hugging and telling each other they were beautiful. It was amazing. Enough so that Cornell borrowed some lucky fan's flip-cam, got the lights turned up, and filmed everyone. The band was just so incredibly appreciative. When their two-hour mix of hits and deep cuts finished, people were breathless, speechless and probably a little deaf. They also knew they witnessed a rare show that went beyond your usual concert experience: July 30th the dry, barren gorge was turned into a lush garden of sound. Soundgarden Setlist: Searching With My Good Eye Closed Spoonman Gun Jesus Christ Pose Blow Up the Outside World The Day I Tried to Live My Wave Burden in My Hand Ugly Truth Fell on Black Days Hunted Down Drawing Flies Black Hole Sun Outshined Rusty Cage Head Down Pretty Noose Superunknown 4th of July Encore: Room a Thousand Years Wide Beyond the Wheel Slaves & Bulldozers Photography by Karina Halle. ------ Gallery by Karina Halle [nggallery id=245] ]]> http://consequenceofsound.net/2011/08/live-review-soundgarden-queens-of-the-stone-age-mastodon-at-the-gorge-ampitheatre-730/feed/ 1 http://consequenceofsound.net/2011/07/video-the-mars-volta-preview-new-songs-live-from-finland/ http://consequenceofsound.net/2011/07/video-the-mars-volta-preview-new-songs-live-from-finland/#comments http://c438342.r42.cf2.rackcdn.com//wp-content/uploads/2011/07/The.Mars_.Volta_-290x290.jpg Thu, 07 Jul 2011 20:53:40 +0000 Chris Coplan http://consequenceofsound.net/?p=133917

A band doesn’t get to be a part of the 15 Hottest Summer Tours of 2011 by merely being good. In the case of The Mars Volta, they made the list because along with wowing live crowds everywhere with their extensive back catalog, the rockers are offering up new material from their upcoming and as yet detail-less sixth album.

During a July 3rd show in Helsinki, Finland, TMV took to the stage at Circus for an 80-minute set, 60 of which was apparently made up of all new material. Courtesy of Antiquiet, three such tracks are available for HQ viewing below: “I’m Not Running Away”, “Trinkets Pale The Room”, and “Walk The Plank”. Each is a killer example of what’s hopefully to come and another reason to check them out on the road.

And speaking of touring, the band will return from Europe later this month for a chunk of U.S. dates supporting Soundgarden before heading to Australia, China, and Japan in August. Check out the entire list of dates below — after taking a peep at all three performances, of course.

“I’m Not Running Away”

“Trinkets Pale The Room”

“Walk The Plank”

The Mars Volta 2011 Tour Dates:
07/08 – Bilbao, ES @ Bilbao BBK Live
07/09 – Hertfordshire UK @ Sonisphere UK
07/12 – Fairfax, VA @ Patriot Center at George Mason University *
07/13 – Philadelphia, PA @ Festival Pier at Penn’s Landing *
07/14 – Atlantic City, NJ @ Borgata Event Center *
07/16 – Chicago, IL @ UIC Pavilion *
07/18 – Morrison, CO @ Red Rocks Amphitheatre *
07/20 – Stateline, NV @ Harvey’s Lake Tahoe Outdoor Arena *
07/21 – San Francisco, CA @ Bill Graham Civic Center *
07/22 – Los Angeles, CA @ The Forum *
07/23 – Las Vegas, NV @ The Joint *
07/30 – Woodford, AU @ Splendour in the Grass
08/03 – Sydney, AU @ Enmore Theatre
08/05 – Adeliade, AU @ Thebarton Theatre
08/07 – Melbourne, AU @ Palace Theatre
08/09 – Hong King, PRC @ AsiaWorld Arena
08/13-14  – Tokyo, JP @ Summer Sonic

* = w/ Soundgarden

It may only be June 1st, but it’s already time to consider your plans for Halloween. One option is the 13th annual Voodoo Experience, which is set to take over New Orleans, LA from October 28-30. As announced today, recently reunited grunge gods Soundgarden will headline the festivities, and early-bird three-day and VIP passes, priced at $125.00 and $375.00 respectively, are available now. Additional details will be revealed in the weeks ahead and you can stay up to date by bookmarking our Voodoo Experience page on Festival Outlook.

But if there is one way to regain some of that summertime frivolity and carefree attitude, it’s once again through the power of music. Sure, there are festivals galore, but if you’re not willing to travel, and you live in, say, Omaha, Nebraska, you’re limited to what festival experience you can undertake. Of course, there is one solution to the music-going experience that takes as much effort to attend as the work ethic of a 15-year-old on the Fourth of July: waiting for that big summer tour to roll into town. Every year, with the dawning of swimsuits and as the first hints of BBQs waft through the air, artists big and small hit the road to tout their new album and play for those with a lot of time on their hands. Despite the sheer volume of shows, just what ones will truly make the thermometer go pop?

As we do every other season of the year, CoS has your back. Presented below in easy-to-digest form, kind of like the hot dog itself, we’ve compiled a list of the biggest summer tours going down as we speak. From top 40 superstars like Britney Spears and Nicki Minaj to indie phenoms like Bright Eyes and Mountain Goats and from newcomers like The Vaccines to more established acts like Eddie Vedder and Roger Daltrey, a plethora of artists are heading across the country, vying for your attention and trying to make your summer actually fun again. We’ll tell you where they’ll all be, why you should be there, and how you can get your seat. All you’ve gotta do is show up. So, slap on some sunscreen, call in sick from work if you’ve got to, and enjoy great live music before winter comes back and puts a sleeperhold on this good time we call summer.

-Chris Coplan
News Editor

Feature artwork by Cap Blackard.

A Perfect Circle

There is a core, built-in group of people that need no persuading to see A Perfect Circle this summer, but there’s no reason the band shouldn’t sell out every show. Never mind that Maynard James Keenan is still, on a good day, one of the best rock vocalists around–and not too shabby on a bad day–and that APC released a couple of brilliant albums in the years (mainly between Tool albums) the band was together. APC will be playing the best stuff off those few albums, as well as at least one new song–maybe even more if the band is inspired. Even those unfamiliar with APC will find something to like about seeing the veritable supergroup live. This lineup of APC features the enigmatic frontman Keenan, mercenary drummer Josh Freese, and guitarist James Iha playing real music again. They’ll be at various festivals, including Lollapalooza (and basically everywhere else), from June to August. -Harry Painter

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When and where:
05/22 – Columbus, OH @ Rock on the Range
06/29 – Portland, OR @ Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall
06/30 – Kent, WA @ Showare Center
07/02 – Gibbons, AB @ Boonstock
07/04 – Winnipeg, MB @ Centennial Concert Hall
07/06 – St. Paul, MN @ Roy Wilkins Auditorium
07/08 – Detroit, MI @ Fox Theatre
07/09 – Toronto, ON @ Edgefest
07/10 – Ottawa, ON @ Ottawa Bluesfest
07/12 – Boston, MA @ Bank of America Pavilion
07/13 – New York, NY @ Hammerstein Ballroom
07/15 – New York, NY @ Beacon Theatre
07/16 – Philadelphia, PA @ Penn’s Landing
07/17 – Washington, DC @ Constitution Hall
07/19 – Charlotte, NC @ Time Warner Cable Uptown Amphitheatre
07/20 – Atlanta, GA @ The Tabernacle
07/22 – San Antonio, TX @ Freeman Coliseum
07/23 – Grand Prairie, TX @ Verizon Theatre
07/25 – Phoenix, AZ @ Comerica Theatre
07/26 – San Diego, CA @ SDSU Open Air Theatre
07/28 – Los Angeles, CA @ Gibson Amphitheater
07/29 – Sacramento, CA @ Memorial Auditorium
07/30 – Berkeley, CA @ Greek Theatre
08/02 – Morrison, CO @ Red Rocks Amphitheatre
08/05-06 – Kansas City, KS @ Kanrocksas
08/05-07 – Chicago, IL @ Lollapalooza
08/09 – Pittsburgh, PA @ Stage AE

Animal Collective

Since their 2009 tour in support of the ever-rewarding Merriweather Post Pavilion, Animal Collective hasn’t really let us go a week without something new: outstanding solo records from both Panda Bear and Avey Tare, solo tours in support of Panda’s new record, an epileptic Fantasia-style feature-film, an art installation, an incredible EP, and the list goes on. But for fans of the Baltimore Psych titans, it still isn’t enough. The band hasn’t had a full-fledged tour in two years, and when they have, they’ve stuck to Europe or the American West Coast. That’s why when AnCo announced a new string of dates this spring (including the band’s first ever stop at their last album’s namesake, Columbia, MD’s Merriweather Post Pavilion), people got pretty fucking psyched. Videos from the band’s recent California dates, including their stop at Coachella, reveal that there’s a lot to expect. First off, the band will take the form of band again. Noah Lennox will sit behind a full drum set, a returning Deakin will strum some chords and noodle around on an actual guitar, Tare will take the Billy Joel approach behind a keyboard, and Geologist will do whatever inexplicable shit Geologist always does. On top of that, they’ll be debuting a slew of new material, most of which sounds bandy-er than usual. And if Coachella is any indication, the light show might be pretty epic, too. -Drew Litowitz

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When and where:
05/13-15 – Minhead, UK @ ATP Curated by Animal Collective
05/16 – Eastbourne, UK @ Winter Gardens
05/17 – Amsterdam, NL @ Paradiso
05/18 – Brussels, BE @ Cirque Royal
05/19 – Cologne, DE @ Electron
05/20 – Berlin, DE @ Astra
05/21 – Warsaw, PL @ Klub Stodola
05/22 – Krakow, PL @ Studio
05/23 – Vienna, AT @ Arena
05/24 – Zagreb, HR @ Pogon Jedinstvo
05/25 – Milan, IT @ Alcatraz
05/26-28 – Dudingen, CH @ Bad Bonn Festival Kilbi
05/28 – Barcelona, ES @ Primavera Sound
05/27-06-01 – Paris, FR @ Festival Villette Sonique
07/07 – Orlando, FL @ The Beacham Theatre
07/08 – Alpharetta, GA @ Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre at Encore Park
07/09 – Columbia, MD @ Merriweather Post Pavilion
07/12 – Brooklyn, NY @ Prospect Park Bandshell (Celebrate Brooklyn)
07/13 – Millvale, PA @ Mr. Smalls Theatre
07/15 – Chicago, IL @ Pitchfork Music Festival

Archers of Loaf

The name Archers of Loaf may not spark a lot of discussion in 2011, but it sure did 15 years ago when the “White Trash Heroes” first made the rounds. The North Carolina noise rockers released four albums in the ’90s, scored some hits on college radio, and in 1995 toured with Weezer (the good kind). Their short run came to an end in 1998, but now that they’ve reunited, it’s a valuable opportunity to catch up on a slice of indie goodness on which many missed out. Imagine if TV on the Radio or Deerhunter broke up right now and came back 12 years later. This is that, kind of. -Harry Painter

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When and where:
05/21 – Asheville, NC @ The Grey Eagle
05/29 – George, WA @ Sasquatch! Music Festival
06/03 – Los Angeles, CA @ Troubadour
06/04 – Los Angeles, CA @ Troubadour
06/11 – Austin, TX @ Emo’s
06/12 – Dallas, TX @ The Loft
06/25 – Brooklyn, NY @ Music Hall of Williamsburg
06/26 – New York, NY @ Webster Hall
07/08 – Chicago, IL @ The Bottom Lounge
07/09 – Chicago, IL @ The Bottom Lounge
07/22 – Atlanta, GA @ The Earl
07/23 – Atlanta, GA @ The Earl
08/05 – Washington, DC @ Black Cat
08/06 – Philadelphia, PA @ The Trocadero
08/19 – Chapel Hill, NC @ Cat’s Cradle
09/02 – San Francisco, CA @ Great American Music Hall
09/03 – San Francisco, CA @ Great American Music Hall
12/09-11 – Minehead, UK @ ATP’s Nightmare Before Christmas

Arctic Monkeys w/ The Vaccines

While Death Cab for Cutie and Frightened Rabbit may have had a lot in common, the case of Arctic Monkeys and newcomers The Vaccines is one of the past meeting the future. Arctic Monkeys started out as newcomers themselves before 2006′s Whatever People Say I Am, That’s What I’m Not caught on big time across the globe. Subsequent albums have seen the band’s stock rise, and now, as they ready to drop their fourth album, Suck It and See, the rockers find themselves on a precipice of sorts, ready to grab some of that initial fame once again or float off into oblivion if the rest of the album doesn’t meet raving-mad fan expectations. Regardless of where they land, they’re taking their hard work and making a go of recreating their success for The Vaccines. AM’s fellow countrymen dropped their debut LP back in March and find themselves in a place Alex Turner and company once did not so long ago: great songs, beloved by critics everywhere, looking for that one spark to blow their career up and possibly put them in line for some well-deserved attention in the indie rock world. While no result is definitive, one thing is certain: This tour is going to be one crazy-good time, mates. -Chris Coplan

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When and where:
05/17 – Washington, DC @ 9:30 Club
05/18 – Philadelphia, PA @ Electric Factory
05/19 – Boston, MA @ House of Blues
05/21 – Toronto, ON @ Kool Haus
05/22 – Montreal, QC @ L’Olympia
05/24 – New York, NY @ Summer Stage
05/26 – Detroit, MI @ Clutch Cargoes
05/27 – Milwaukee, WI @ The Rave
05/28 – Minneapolis, MN @ First Avenue
05/30 – Denver, CO @ Ogden Theatre
05/31 – Salt Lake City, UT @ In The Venue
06/02 – Pomona, CA @ Fox Theatre
06/03 – Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Palladium
08/01 – Dallas, TX @ The Palladium
08/02 – Austin, TX @ Stubbs
08/03 – Houston, TX @ House of Blues
08/05-06 – Kansas City, KS @ Kanrocksas
08/05-07 – Chicago, IL @ Lollapalooza
08/06 – Chicago, IL @ House of Blues
08/10 – Seattle, WA @ The Showbox
08/11 – Portland, OR @ Crystal Ballroom
08/12 – San Francisco, CA @ The Independent

Bright Eyes w/ everyone

Long has it been rumored that Bright Eyes‘ latest release, The People’s Key, will be their last under the Bright Eyes moniker. Acting accordingly, Conor Oberst and Co. have been/will be taking their show on the road for a massive world tour to finish things off in style. Touring partners for the spring leg include Jenny and Johnny, Dawes, Titus Andronicus, Death Cab for Cutie, and a pair of shows with M. Ward. But come summertime, the real fun starts. After returning from a European tour, not only will Bright Eyes be appearing at Lollapalooza, but they’ll embark on a short tour with fellow indie rock legends The Mountain Goats. Although The Mountain Goats are listed as the opener, this feels more like a joint headlining tour. And for the eight cities lucky enough to witness it, I’m sure both acts will shine like the true veterans they are. -Winston Robbins

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When and where:
05/23 – Saskatoon, SK @ Odeon
05/24 – Edmonton, AB @ Shaw Conference Center ^
05/25 – Calgary, AB @ Stampede Corral ^
05/27 – Bend, OR @ Les Schwab Amphitheatre ^
05/28 – George, WA @ Sasquatch! Music Festival
05/31 – Spokane, WA @ Knitting Factory +
06/01 – Boise, ID @ Knitting Factory Concert House +
06/03 – Denver, CO @ Filmore Theater +
06/04 – Council Bluffs, IA @ WestFair Amphitheater +
06/06 -  St. Louis, MO @ The Pageant %
06/07 – Louisville, KY @ Iroquois Amphitheater %
06/08 – Columbus, OH – LC Pavilion @ Indoors %
06/09 – Pittsburgh, PA – Stage AC @ Indoors %
06/10 – Philadelphia, PA @ Mann Center for Performing Arts %>
06/11 – Vienna, VA @ Filene Center At Wolf Trap %>
06/16 – Zurich, CH @ Kaufleuten
06/17 – Neuhausen ob Eck, DE @ Southside Festival
06/18 – Scheeßel, DE @ Hurricane Festival
06/19 – Berlin, DE @ Columbiahalle
06/21 – Colonge, DE @ Royal Albert Hall
06/22 – Paris, FR @ Alhambra
06/23 – London, UK @ Royal Albert Hall +
06/25 – Vitoria-Gasteiz, ES @ Azkena Rock Festival
06/28 – Gothenburg, SE @ Where The Action Is
06/29 – Arendal, NO @ Hove Festival
07/01 – Roskilde, DK @ Roskilde Festival
07/02 – Werchter, BE @ Rock Werchter
07/04 – Hradec Králové, CZ @ Rock For People
07/05 – Vienna, AT @ Arena Wien Open Air +
07/07 – Ultrecht, NL @ Tivoli +
07/08 – Birmingham, UK @ HMV Institute +
07/09 – Kinross, UK @ T in the Park
07/10 – Naas, IE @ Oxegen
07/12 – Gateshead, UK @ Sage +
07/13 – Leeds, UK @ Academy +
07/14 – Manchester, UK @ Academy +
07/15 – Suffolk, UK @ Latitude Festival
07/27 – Lewiston, NY @ Art Park ( Free Show) #
07/28 – Belknap, NH  @ Meadowbrook Pavilion #
07/29 – Shelburne, VT @ Ben & Jerry’s Concerts on the Green at Shelburne Museum #
07/30 – Montreal, QC @ Osheaga Festival
07/31 – Baldwinsville, NY @ Paper Mill Island Amphitheater #
08/03 – Grand Rapids, MI @ Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park #
08/04 – Indianapolis, IN @ Egyptian Room #
08/05 – Chicago, IL @ Lollapalooza
08/06 – Columbia, MO @ The Blue Note
08/08 – Des Moines, IA @ Val Air Ballroom
08/14 – East Hampton, NY @ Music to Know Festival

! = w/ Titus Andronicus
$ = w/ Farmer Dave Scher
^ = w/ Death Cab For Cutie
+ = w/ Jenny and Johnny
% = w/ Dawes
> = w/ M. Ward
# = w/ The Mountain Goats

Britney Spears w/ Nicki Minaj

The key to a great tour isn’t just about how amazing the shows are or how much pyro they blast during the duration. It’s also about how the lineup works to perpetuate and facilitate a great idea or concept. In the case of Britney Spears hitting the road with Nicki Minaj in a supporting capacity, that notion is the batshit crazy, immovable object that does weird accents meeting the irresistible force of pop music who’s made a few questionable life choices (see: Kevin Federline). Along with being two of pop’s greatest commodities right now, Spears and Minaj are two very different narratives of the same sugarcoated genre. The plucky Minaj is in the boom period of her career, where a dynamic performance aboard this tour could keep her rocket ship to stardom on a path to complete domination. Spears, on the other hand, is on what seems to be her 100th career resurrection, free of all that extra weight (the metaphorical and physical variety) and ready to show the world she is still our pop princess. Sure, they’re working together to put on a great show, but with a tale of the tape like that, not to mention their diva tendencies, they’ll be going at it tooth and nails for our love and attention. And that means we win no matter who nabs the most headlines. -Chris Coplan

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When and where:
06/17 – Sacramento, CA @ Power Balance Pavilion
06/18 – San Jose, CA @ HP Pavilion
06/20 – Los Angeles, CA @ Staples Center
06/24 – Anaheim, CA @ Honda Center
06/25 – Las Vegas, NV @ MGM Grand
06/28 – Portland, OR @ Rose Garden Arena
06/29 – Tacoma, WA @ Tacoma Dome
07/01 – Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena
07/04 – Winnipeg, MB @ MTS Centre
07/06 – St. Paul, MN @ Xcel Center
07/08 – Chicago, IL @ United Center
07/09 – Milwaukee, WI @ Summerfest
07/12 – Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center
07/13 – Houston, TX @ Toyota Center
07/15 – New Orleans, LA @ New Orleans Arena
07/17 – Atlanta, GA @ Philips Arena
07/20 – Orlando, FL @ Armway Center
07/22 – Miami, FL @ American Airlines Arena
07/26 – Cleveland, OH @ Quicken Loans Arena
07/28 – Detroit, MI @ Palace of Auburn Hills
07/30 – Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center
07/31 – Washington, DC @ Verizon Center
08/02 – Uniondale, NJ @ Nassau Coliseum
08/05 – E. Rutherford, NJ @ IZod Center
08/08 – Boston, MA @ TD Garden
08/11 – Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre
08/13 – Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre

Death Cab for Cutie w/ Frightened Rabbit

Here’s a history lesson for the indie rock fans of the world. Back in November 2008, Death Cab for Cutie tapped Frightened Rabbit to open for them during their tour of UK and Ireland. Now, some two and a half years later, the American rockers are bringing back the Scots for another round of touring as they support their new LP, Codes and Keys. In various interviews regarding the record, the band have spoken about how the album is one where they’ve matured due to each band member having endured major life changes. With marriages and kids and new residencies, the band are dealing with issues of home and belonging to the machinations of updated sonics, with the record featuring less guitars and more ambiance than other DCFC records. Undoubtedly, some fans may love the new record, while others may yearn for the indie, guitar-driven noise of previous efforts. Cue Frightened Rabbit and the sound of emotionally wounded and vulnerable young lads dealing with heartache, being forlorn, and trying to be optimistic in a world gone mad. With DCFC expanding their repertoire and Frightened Rabbit making their music tighter, fans are going to get the best of both worlds. Also, they may cry or feel some shit. -Chris Coplan

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When and where:
07/27 – Columbus, OH @ LC Outdoor Amphitheater
07/28 – Detroit, MI @ Fox Theatre
07/29 – Toronto, ON @ Molson Ampitheatre
08/01 – Boston, MA @ Bank of America Pavilion
08/02 – Brooklyn, NY @ Williamsburg Waterfront
08/05 – Philadelphia, PA @ The Mann Center
08/06 – Pittsburgh, PA @ Stage AE
08/07 – Columbia, MD @ Merriweather Post Pavilion
08/08 – Cary, NC @ Koka Booth Ampitheatre
08/10 – Nashville, TN @ Bridgestone Arena
08/11 – Alpharetta, GA @ Verizon Wireless Ampitheatre
08/12 – New Orleans, LA @ Kiefer UNO Lakefront Arena
08/13 – Grand Prairie, TX @ Verizon Theater
08/15 – Phoenix, AZ @ Comerica Theatre
08/16 – La Jolla, CA @ RIMAC Arena
08/18 – Los Angeles, CA @ Greek Theatre
08/19 – Los Angeles, CA @ Greek Theatre
08/20 – Las Vegas, NV @ The Pool
08/22 – West Valley City, UT @ Maverik Center
08/23 – Morrison, CO @ Red Rocks Ampitheatre
08/25 – Chicago, IL @ UIC Pavilion
08/26 – St. Paul, MN @ Roy Wilkins Auditorium

The Decemberists

Folk-phenoms The Decemberists are literally at the top of their game, having just scored their first number one record with The King Is Dead. To help celebrate the accomplishment on tour, they’ve enlisted some impressive support: Mexican speed-guitarists Rodrigo y Gabriela, surf-pop revivalists Best Coast, and rising Seattle stars The Head and the Heart will all open select dates. Unsurprisingly, the festival circuit regulars will also hit at least five summer events. The real goods may come when they head the Newport Folk Festival in July; Gillian Welch, background vocalist on seven The King Is Dead tracks, is also on the bill, heralding the likely prospect of an onstage collaboration. Sadly, keyboardist/accordionist Jenny Conlee will be kept offstage through June (including Sasquatch! and Bonnaroo) while she battles breast cancer. CoS wishes her a speedy recovery, so she may rejoin her bandmates on what is sure to be a prodigious tour. -Ben Kaye

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When and where:
05/29 – Bend, OR @ Les Schwab Amphitheater #
05/30 – George, WA @ Sasquatch! Music Festival
06/10 – Manchester, TN @ Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival
06/11 – Raleigh, NC @ Raleigh Amphitheater &
06/13 – Columbia, MD @ Merriweather Post Pavilion &
06/14 – Brooklyn, NY @ Prospect Park Bandshell (Celebrate Brooklyn) &
06/15 – Philadelphia, PA @ Academy of Music &
06/16 – Portland, ME @ State Theatre $
06/18 – Telluride, CO @ Telluride Bluegrass Festival
07/19 – Jacksonville, OR @ Britt Pavilion ^
07/20 – Boise, ID @ Idaho Botanical Gardens ^
07/22 – Missoula, MT @ Big Sky Brewery ^
07/25 – Chicago, IL @ Aragon Ballroom !
07/26 – Cleveland, OH @ Jacobs Pavilion at Nautica !
07/27 – Interlochen, MI @ Interlochen Center for the Arts !
07/29 – Atlantic City, NJ @ Borgata Event Center !
07/30 – Newport, RI @ Newport Folk Festival
07/31 – Holyoke, MA @ Mountain Park /
08/01 – Lewiston, NY @ Artpark !
08/03 – Charlottesville, VA @ nTelos Wireless Pavilion !
08/04 – Cincinnati OH @ PNC Pavilion at Riverbend Music !
08/05 – Indianapolis, IN @ White River State Park !
08/08 – Austin, TX @ Stubb’s >
08/11 – Mesa, AZ @ Mesa Arts Center $
08/12 – Los Angeles, CA @ Greek Theatre *
08/13 – San Francisco, CA @ Outside Lands Music Festival

# = w/ Rodrigo Y Gabriela
& = w/ Best Coast
^ = w/ Typhoon
! = w/ The Head and the Heart
> = w/ Caitlin Rose
$ = w/ Sara Watkins
* = w/ Wye Oak
/ = w/ Sallie Ford & The Sound Outside

Eddie Vedder

For anyone familiar with Pearl Jam, it should not be news that lead singer Eddie Vedder is a ukulele enthusiast. Vedder has been known to pull out his uke during live shows and do either simplified versions of Pearl Jam songs or songs that he’d specifically written for the ukulele. The first studio recording of a Vedder ukulele song, “Goodbye”, appeared on the soundtrack for the Jack Johnson-produced surf video A Brokedown Melody in 2004. Seven years later, Vedder has compiled an album full of his tropical ditties, including the aforementioned song and lead single “Longing to Belong”, which can be heard here. Vedder’s entrancing baritone sounds right at home over the simple chords of the ukulele. He’ll be touring 17 dates behind the album (with Glen Hansard opening) this summer. One of rock’s greats playing quality ukulele songs for an entire set? A must-see, hands down. -Winston Robbins

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When and where:
06/15 – Providence, RI @ Providence Performing Arts Center (PAC) *
06/16 – Boston, MA @ The Wang Theatre *
06/18 – Hartford, CT @ The Bushnell Center for the Performing Arts *
06/21 – New York, NY @ Beacon Theatre *
06/22 – New York, NY @ Beacon Theatre *
06/25 – Philadelphia, PA @ Tower Theatre *
06/26 – Detroit, MI @ Fox Theatre *
06/28 – Chicago, IL @ The Chicago Theatre *
07/01 – St. Louis, MO @ Fox Theatre *
07/02 – Minneapolis, MN @ Orpheum Theatre *
07/05 – San Diego, CA @ Copley Symphony Hall *
07/06 – Long Beach, CA @ Terrace Theater *
07/08 – Los Angeles, CA @ The Wiltern *
07/09 – Santa Barbara, CA @ Santa Barbara Bowl *
07/11 – Oakland, CA @ The Paramount Theatre *
07/14 – Portland, OR @ Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall *
07/15 – Seattle, WA @ Benaroya Hall *

* = w/ Glen Hansard

Foo Fighters

Of all the shows this writer saw while at South by Southwest 2011, and in the first five months of this year for that matter, no one band delivered a more awe-inspiring performance than Foo Fighters. Sure, I’m a sucker for stadium bands, but hell, they’re capable of playing a 70,000-person stadium for a reason. Two-and-a-half hour sets featuring more hooks in the first 15 minutes alone than most dream of in a lifetime? Check. Touring the hell out of the world in support of Wasting Light, which is a strong candidate for album of the year? Double check. And they have Pat Smear back in the fold? Check-a-rooni! Springsteen might not but touring this summer, but at least we have a suitable alternative. So, have yourself a Foo-tastic summer. -Alex Young

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When and where:
05/20 – Memphis, TN @ FedExForum !*
05/21 – Gulf Shores, AL @ The Hangout Festival
05/23 – Council Bluffs, IA @ Mid-America Center !*
05/26 – Missoula, MT @ Adams Center !*
05/27 – George, WA @ Sasquatch! Music Festival
06/09 – Interlaken, CH @ Greenfield Festival
06/11 – Isle of Wight, UK @ Isle of Wight Festival
06/13 – Landgraaf, NL @ Pinkpop
06/15 – Milan, IT @ IdRHO Festival
06/17 – Neuhausen ob Eck, DE @ Southside Festival
06/18 – Berlin, DE @ Wuhlheide
06/19 – Scheeßel, DE @ Hurricane Festival
06/21 – Copenhagen, DK @ Refshaleoen
06/22 – Stockholm, SE @ Stockholm Stadium
06/24 – Oslo, NO @ Telenor Arena
06/26 – Helsinki, FI @  Kalasatama
07/02 – Milton Keynes, UK @ The National Bowl *^%
07/03 – Milton Keynes, UK @ The National Bowl *$#
07/06 – Madrid, ES @ Palacio de Deportes
07/07 – Lisbon, PT @ Optimus! Alive Festival
07/09 – Naas, IE @ Oxegen
07/10 – Kinross, UK @ T in the Park
08/07 – Chicago, IL @ Lollapalooza
08/09 – Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Center &~
08/10 – Montreal, QC @ Bell Center &~
08/18 – Kiewet, BE @ Pukkelpop
08/20 – St Polten, AT @ Frequency Festival
08/21 – Erfurt, DE @ Highfield Festival
08/23 – Cologne, DE @ Laxness Arena
08/24 – Ubersee, DE @ Chiemsee Festival
08/26 – Paris, FR @ Rock En Seine
09/14 – St. Paul, MN @ Excel Center +/
09/16 – Kansas City, MO @ Sprint Center +/
09/17 – St. Louis, MO @ Scottrade Center +/
09/19 – Auburn Hills, MI @ Palace of Auburn Hills +/
09/20 – Cleveland, OH @ Quicken Loans Arena +/
09/22 – Columbus, OH @ Nationwide Arena +/
09/23 – Pittsburgh, PA @ CONSOL Energy Center +/
09/25 – Buffalo, NY @ HSBC Center *
09/26 – E. Rutherford, NJ @ IZod Center +/

! = w/ Motorhead
* = w/ Biffy Clyro
^ = w/ Death Cab For Cutie
% = w/ Tame Impala
$ = w/ Jimmy Eat World
# = w/ Hot Rats
& = w/ Fucked Up
~ = w/ Doughboys
+ = w/ Rise Against
/ = w/ Mariachi El Bronx

Katy Perry

If there is one female artist in today’s music industry who seems to really have struck gold, it’s Katy Perry. Her most recent album, Teenage Dream, has garnered her four number one hits along with four Grammy nominations, and now she plans on taking the album on the road. With her European leg of the tour already completed, Perry is heading back to North America in early June for a 58-show run.

Along with her collection of number ones, Perry is bringing along a few friends to open the show for her. Surprisingly, these friends are Robyn, Janelle Monáe, and Marina & the Diamonds, each opening for Perry on selected dates. The tour, appropriately titled the California Dreams Tour, promises all of Perry’s hits and fan favorites, along with a continuation of her California Candyland theme from her “California Girls” video, which for many fans may just be the biggest selling point. The North American portion of the tour begins in early June and continues through September, when Perry heads back to Europe. -Arya Davachi

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When and where:
06/07 – Atlanta, GA @ Arena at Gwinnett Center *
06/09 – Orlando, FL @ UCF Arena *
06/10 – Tampa, FL @ St. Pete Times Forum *
06/11 – Ft. Lauderdale, FL @ Bank Atlantic Center *
06/14 – Raleigh, NC @ RBC Center *
06/15 – Columbia, MD @ Merriweather Post Pavilion *
06/17 – Uniondale, NY @ Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum *
06/18 – Boston, MA @ TD Garden *
06/19 – Newark, NJ @ Prudential Center *
06/22 – Uncasville, CT @ Mohegan Sun Arena #
06/23 – Pittsburgh, PA @ Petersen Events Center #
06/24 – Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center #
06/25 – Uncasville, CT @ Mohegan Sun Arena #
06/28 – Detroit, MI @ Palace of Auburn Hills #
06/30 – Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre #
07/02 – Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre #
07/03 – Ottawa, ON @ ScotiaBank Place #
07/05 – Cleveland, OH @ Quicken Loans Arena #
07/07 – Milwaukee, WI @ Summerfest #
07/08 – Chicago, IL @ Allstate Arena #
07/09 – St. Paul, MN @ Xcel Energy Center #
07/13 – Regina, SK @ Brandt Centre $
07/14 – Winnipeg, MB @ MTS Centre $
07/16 – Calgary, AB @ Calgary Stampede $
07/17 – Edmonton, AB @ Rexall Place $
07/19 – Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena
07/20 – Seattle, WA @ KeyArena at Seattle Center
07/22 – Portland, OR @ Rose Garden Arena *
07/23 – Boise, ID @ Taco Bell Arena *
07/25 – Salt Lake City, UT @ Energy Solutions Arena *
07/26 – Denver, CO @ 1stBank Center *
07/28 – Dallas, TX @ Verizon Theatre at Grand Prairie *
07/29 – Houston, TX @ Toyota Center *
07/30 – Austin, TX @ Frank Erwin Center *
08/03 – Phoenix, AZ @ Comerica Theatre *
08/05 – Los Angeles, CA @ Nokia Theatre *
08/06 – Los Angeles, CA @ Nokia Theatre *
08/07 – Los Angeles, CA @ Nokia Theatre *
08/09 – San Diego, CA @ Valley Wide Casino Center
08/12 – San Jose, CA @ HP Pavilion ^
08/13 – Santa Barbara, CA @ Santa Barbara Bowl ^
08/14 – Santa Barbara, CA @ Santa Barbara Bowl ^
08/17 – Kansas City, MO @ Sprint Center
08/19 – Nashville, TN @ Bridgestone Arena $
08/20 – St. Louis, MO @ Scottrade Center $
09/07 – San Antonio, TX @ AT&T Center $
09/08 – New Orleans, LA @ New Orleans Arena $
09/10 – Louisville, KY @ KFC Yum! Arena $
09/11 – Grand Rapids, MI @ Van Andel Arena $
09/13 – Columbus, OH @ Schottenstein Arena $
09/14 – Indianapolis, IN @ Conseco Fieldhouse $
09/16 – Omaha, NE @ Qwest Center $
09/17 – Tulsa, OK @ BOK Center $

* = w/ Robyn
# = w/ Marina and the Diamonds
$ = w/ Janelle Monae
^ = w/ Oh Land

Okkervil River w/ Titus Andronicus

Okkervil River just put out a pretty cool new album. They haven’t toured in a long while, the last notable tour being their joint one with Wilco in 2009. But in a few weeks, Sheff will dawn his nicest professorial attire for a tote around the country. Shows at SXSW revealed a louder, more confident, more grandiose Okkervil River. There, the band mostly played newer material (mainly new stuff and songs from The Stage Names and The Stand-Ins, aside from Black Sheep Boy gems “A Stone” and “For Real”). So, get ready for a more raucous affair and a more volatile Sheff leading the Austin Texans into battle. Just don’t expect “Red” or “The Velocity of Saul at the Time of his Conversion”.

Joining them is the equally ferocious Titus Andronicus, still basking in the glory of their epic prog-punk masterpiece, The Monitor. While they may have lost longtime bassist Ian Graetzer, there’s no putting Patrick Stickles and his militant New Jersey-ites to rest. Expect epic renditions of already epic tracks, a whole lot of gut-wrenching fury, messy but magnificent guitar solos, antebellum facial hair, and sweaty T-shirts. And don’t forget to brush up on your Jersey iconography. It’ll be like The Boss got really angry, really drunk, and really fucking awesome (in that Civil War kind of way). With both bands on the bill, it won’t just be a one-two punch, it’ll be a one-two bayonet wound from the neck of a splintering acoustic guitar. -Drew Litowitz

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When and where:
05/31 – Atlanta, GA @ Variety Playhouse #
06/01 – Carrboro, NC @ Cat’s Cradle #
06/02 – Washington, DC @ 9:30 Club #
06/03 – Philadelphia, PA @ Trocadero Theatre #
06/04 – New Haven, CT @ Toad’s Place #
06/08 – Boston, MA @ Royale #
06/09 – Buffalo, NY @ Town Ballroom #
06/10 – Toronto, Ontario @ Phoenix Concert Theatre #
06/11 – Columbus, OH @ Newport Music Hall #
06/12 – Minneapolis, MN @ First Avenue #
06/14 – Omaha, NE @ Slowdown
06/15 – Denver, CO @ The Bluebird Theater
06/16 – Salt Lake City, UT @ Urban Lounge
06/17 – Boise, ID @ Egyptian Theatre
06/18 – Seattle, WA @ Neptune Theatre
06/20 – Vancouver, British Columbia @ The Vogue Theatre &
06/21 – Portland, OR @ Crystal Ballroom &
06/22 – San Francisco, CA @ The Fox Theater &
06/23 – Los Angeles, CA @ The Wiltern $
06/24 – San Diego, CA @ The Belly Up Tavern $
06/25 – Tucson, AZ @ Rialto Theatre $
06/28 – Lubbock, TX @ Jake’s

# = w/ Future Islands
& = w/ Julianna Barwick
$ = w/ NewVillager

Roger Daltrey

Pete Townshend’s incurable tinnitus has put into question the continued presence of rock legends The Who as a touring unit. Plans were formulating as recently as last September, but have yet to bear fruit. The band’s other surviving member, frontman Roger Daltrey, must be as antsy as his fans, because although his guitarist remains on the bench, he’s taking their classic rock-opera Tommy on tour through the U.K., U.S., and Canada. Filling in for Townshend will be his brother, Simon, and the whole thing has Pete’s blessings. With Daltrey getting up in age and Townshend apparently unable to work around his hearing issues, there’s no telling how many more chances there will be to see The Who’s iconic catalogue played by its creators. Not to be pessimistic, but if The Who are on your bucket list, consider purchasing that ticket now. Here’s hoping Daltrey pulls a Waters and takes this definitive piece of work on a proper world tour, and maybe Townshend can even join him for at least one night. -Ben Kaye

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When and where:
07/03 – Alchester, UK @ Ragley Hall
07/04 – Gateshead, UK @ Sage
07/06 – Glasgow, UK @ Clyde Auditorium
07/07 – Manchester, UK @ Bridgewater Hall
07/09 – Nottingham, UK @ Royal Centre
07/10 – Newport, UK @ Centre
07/12 – Bristol, UK @ Colston Hall
07/13 – Southend, UK @ Cliffs Pavillion
07/15 – Guildford, UK @ Guilfest
07/16 – Hampshire, UK @ Broadlands
07/17 – Harrogate, UK @ Ripley House
07/19 – Hull City, UK @ Hall
07/21 – London, UK @ Indigo
07/22 – Norwich, UK @ Blicking Hall
07/24 – Exeter, UK @ Powderham Castle
09/13 – Hollywood, FL @ Seminole Hard Rock
09/15 – Alpharetta, GA @ Verizon Wireless Pavilion
09/17 – Boston, MA @ Agganis Arena
09/18 – Newark, NJ @ Prudential Center
09/21 – Philadelphia, PA @ MANN Center
09/23 – Uniondale, NY @ Nassau Coliseum
09/24 – Hartford, CT @ XL Center
09/27 – Montreal, QC @ Place Des Arts
09/28 – Ottawa, ON @ Scotiabank Place
09/30 – Toronto, ON @ Sony Centre For The Performing Arts
10/01 – Windsor, ON @ The Coliseum at Caesars Windsor
10/05 – Minneapolis, MN @ U.S. Bank Theater at Target Center
10/07 – Hammond, IN @ Venue at Horseshoe Casino
10/08 – St. Louis, MO @ Peabody Opera House
10/11 – Cedar Park, TX @ Cedar Park Center
10/12 – Grand Prairie, TX @ Verizon Theatre
10/14 – Kansas City, MO @ The Midland by AMC
10/16 – Broomfield, CO @ 1STBANK Center
10/19 – Los Angeles, CA @ Nokia Theatre
10/21 – San Jose, CA @ San Jose Civic
10/22 – Las Vegas, NV @ The Joint
10/24 – Portland, OR @ Rose Quarter-Theatre of the Clouds
10/25 – Seattle, WA @ Key Arena
10/27 – Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena
10/29 – Edmonton, AB @ Rexall Place
10/30 – Calgary, AB @ Scotiabank Saddledome
11/01 – Saskatoon, SK @ Credit Union Centre
11/02 – Winnipeg, MB @ MTS Centre

Sade

2001. That was the year of the last concert Sade performed. So when she announces a tour, it would behoove you to pay attention. Playing in support of last year’s excellent Soldier of Love, the trek is absolutely massive with over 50 dates between now and September. She’s not the only one on the road in support of a well-received album, though. Joining her for most of the tour dates will be John Legend, who finished up 2010 with The Roots on Wake Up!. There are plenty of chances for cross-generational fanbases here. Sade’s older fans may get into Legend’s soulful croons, and young people may gain appreciation for Sade’s unique blend of smooth jazz. Nothing wrong with that at all! -Joe Marvili

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When and where:
05/13 – Berlin, DE @ O2 World
05/14 – Prague, CH @ Arena
05/16 – Zurich, CH @ Hallenstadion
05/17 – Paris, FR @ Bercy
05/19 – Munich, DE @ Olympiahalle
05/20 – Amneville, FR @ Galaxie
05/23 – Rotterdam, NL @ Ahoy
05/25 – Dublin, IE @ The O2
05/27 – Manchester, UK @ MEN Arena
05/29 – Birmingham, UK @ LG Arena
05/31 – London, UK @ O2 Arena
06/16 – Baltimore, MD @ 1st Mariner Arena *
06/18 – Pittsburgh, PA @ Consol Energy Center *
06/19 – Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Arena *
06/21 – Uniondale, NY @ Nassau Coliseum *
06/22 – Washington, DC @ Verizon Center
06/24 – E. Rutherford, NJ @ IZod Center *
06/25 – Newark, NJ @ Prudential Center *
06/28 – Toronto, ON @ Air Canada Centre *
06/30 – Montreal, QC Bell Centre *
07/03 – Uncasville, CT @ Mohegan Sun Arena *
07/06 – Boston, MA @ TD Garden *
07/08 – Indianapolis, IN @ Conseco Fieldhouse *
07/09 – Cleveland, OH @ Quicken Loans Arena *
07/10 – Columbus, OH @ Schottenstein Center *
07/12 – Atlanta, GA @ Philips Arena *
07/13 – Atlanta, GA @ Philips Arena *
07/15 – Ft. Lauderdale, FL @ BankAtlantic Center *
07/16 – Miami, FL @ American Airlines Arena *
07/17 – Orlando, FL @ Amway Center *
07/22 – New Orleans, LA @ New Orleans Arena *
07/23 – Houston, TX @ Toyota Center *
07/24 – Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center *
07/26 – Kansas City, KS @ Sprint Center *
07/28 – St. Louis, MO @ Scottrade Cener *
07/29 – Memphis, TN @ FedEx Forum *
07/31 – Charlotte, NC @ Time Warner Cable Arena *
08/03 – Detroit, MI @ The Palace at Auburn Hills *
08/05 – Chicago, IL @ United Center *
08/06 – Chicago, IL @ United Center *
08/07 – Chicago, IL @ United Center *
08/09 – Minneapolis, MN @ Target Center *
08/11 – Denver, CO @ Pepsi Center *
08/13 – Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena *
08/14 – Seattle, WA @ Key Arena *
08/15 – Portland, OR @ Rose Garden Arena *
08/17 – Sacramento, CA @ Power Balance Pavilion *
08/19 – Los Angeles, CA @ Staples Center *
08/20 – Los Angeles, CA @ Staples Center *
08/21 – Los Angeles, CA @ Staples Center *
08/23 – San Diego, CA @ Cricket Amphitheatre *
08/25 – San Jose, CA @ HP Pavilion *
08/26 – Oakland, CA @ Oracle Arena *
08/27 – Oakland, CA @ Oracle Arena *
08/30 – Anaheim, CA @ Honda Center *
08/31 – Anaheim, CA @ Honda Center *
09/02 – Phoenix, AZ @ U.S. Airways Center *
09/03 – Las Vegas, NV @ MGM Grand Arena *

* = w/ John Legend

Soundgarden

Ever since Soundgarden crushed Lollapalooza last August for their first show in 13 years, the question on everyone’s mind was “What’s next?”. Not much news came out in 2010, but we got what we wanted this year: a reunion tour. Crisscrossing the United States, the Seattle rockers will be playing amphitheaters and arenas throughout the entire month of July. As if the chance to hear “Black Hole Sun”, “Spoonman”, and “Jesus Christ Pose” wasn’t enough, there are the openers to consider as well. The first half of the tour will feature Coheed and Cambria. Next up will be the insanity that is a Mars Volta performance. Then to cap the whole thing off, a couple of dates with Queens of the Stone Age right in the middle of their own comeback tour. Oh, and if you still need more, how does the possibility of new material sound? Yeah, we thought you’d like that. -Joe Marvili

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When and where:
07/02 – Toronto, ON @ Molson Canadian Amphitheatre ^
07/03 – London, ON @ John Labatt Centre ^
07/05 – Ottawa, ON @ Ottawa Bluesfest
07/06 – Uncasville, CT @ Mohegan Sun Arena ^
07/08 – Newark, NJ @ Prudential Center ^
07/09 – Wantagh, NY @ Nikon at Jones Beach Theater ^
07/10 – Mansfield, MA @ Comcast Center For The Performing Arts ^
07/13 – Philadelphia, PA @ Festival Pier at Penn’s Landing *
07/14 – Atlantic City, NJ @ Borgata Event Center *
07/16 – Chicago, IL @ UIC Pavilion *
07/18 – Morrison, CO @ Red Rocks Amphitheatre *
07/21 – San Francisco, CA @ Bill Graham Civic Center *
07/22 – Los Angeles, CA @ The Forum *
07/23 – Las Vegas, NV @ The Joint *
07/29 – Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena &
07/30 – George, WA @ The Gorge #

^ = w/ Coheed and Cambria
* = w / The Mars Volta
& = w/ Queens of the Stone Age and Meat Puppets
# = w/ Queens of the Stone Age, Mastodon and Meat Puppets

Soundgarden have added additional dates to their upcoming reunion tour and they’ve tagged some mighty openers. Set to launch July 2nd in Toronto, the trek kicks off with six dates along the East coast, starting with Coheed and Cambria. Then, on July 13th in Philadelphia, The Mars Volta will take over the opening duties as they join the Seattle rockers for a trip across the country. The tour concludes with shows in Vancouver and the band’s home state of Washington, both of which will feature Queens of the Stone Age and Meat Puppets. The Washington show, set for July 30th at the Gorge, will also include Mastodon. It’s okay if your head just exploded.

You can find Soundgarden’s full tour itinerary below. Public on-sales for Uncasville, CT, Newark, NJ, Wantagh, NY, Fairfax, VA, San Francisco, CA and Vancouver, BC, start on May 13th, and May 14th for London, ON, Mansfield, MA, Atlantic City, NJ, Chicago, IL, Las Vegas, NV and George, WA.

Thanks to 107.7 the End of the tip…

Soundgarden 2011 Tour Dates:
07/02 – Toronto, ON @ Molson Canadian Amphitheatre ^
07/03 – London, ON @ John Labatt Centre ^
07/05 – Ottawa, ON @ Ottawa Bluesfest
07/06 – Uncasville, CT @ Mohegan Sun Arena ^
07/08 – Newark, NJ @ Prudential Center ^
07/09 – Wantagh, NY @ Nikon at Jones Beach Theater ^
07/10 – Mansfield, MA @ Comcast Center For The Performing Arts ^
07/13 – Philadelphia, PA @ Festival Pier at Penn’s Landing *
07/14 – Atlantic City, NJ @ Borgata Event Center *
07/16 – Chicago, IL @ UIC Pavilion *
07/18 – Morrison, CO @ Red Rocks Amphitheatre *
07/21 – San Francisco, CA @ Bill Graham Civic Center *
07/22 – Los Angeles, CA @ The Forum *
07/23 – Las Vegas, NV @ The Joint *
07/29 – Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena &
07/30 – George, WA @ The Gorge #

^ = w/ Coheed and Cambria
* = w / The Mars Volta
& = w/ Queens of the Stone Age and Meat Puppets
# = w/ Queens of the Stone Age, Mastodon and Meat Puppets

Other notables include The Roots, Peter Frampton, John Fogerty, Buddy Guy, Steve Miller, Huey Lewis and the News, Jennifer Hudson, Leon Russell, Rise Against, Dropkick Murphys, Tegan & Sara, M. Ward, Bootsy Collins, Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros, and Cage the Elephant.

Rounding out the lineup are Cheap Trick, Wanda Jackson, Shpongle, Infected Mushroom, John Butler Trio, Gomez, Josh Ritter, Galactic, Dawes, The Greenhorns, Neon Indian, Nicole Atkins, Ra Ra Riot, The Dirtbombs, Mother Mother, and Diamond Rings.

Tickets go on sale to the general public at 10 am EST on April 30st.

It took a little longer than expected, but reunited grunge gods Soundgarden have announced plans for their first North American tour in 14 years. The band will look to follow up last summer’s headlining performance at Lollapalooza and possibly support a new studio album when they launch the trek in Toronto on July 2nd. Currently, only four dates have been announced, but an issued press release notes more will be added in the coming weeks. After Toronto, Soundgarden will hit Philadelphia, PA on July 13th, Morrison, CO on July 18th, and Los Angeles, CA on July 22nd.

Soundgarden’s fan club will have first dibs on tickets starting April 18th. A public on-sale for Morrison begins April 22nd, with the other three dates available April 23rd. Click here for additional ticket information.

Update: Per the band’s Facebook wall, The Mars Volta will open in Philadelphia, Denver, and Los Angeles.

Ahead of the trek, frontman Chris Cornell will wrap up his ongoing acoustic tour. Confirmed dates for both Soundgarden and Cornell are posted below.

Soundgarden 2011 Tour Dates:
07/02 – Toronto, ON @ Molson Canadian Amphitheatre
07/13 – Philadelphia, PA @ Festival Pier at Penn’s Landing *
07/18 – Morrison, CO @ Red Rocks Amphitheatre *
07/22 – Los Angeles, CA @ The Forum *

* = w / The Mars Volta

Chris Cornell 2011 Tour Dates:
04/22 – Chicago, IL @ Vic Theatre
04/23 – Milwaukee, WI @ Pabst Theater
04/24 – St. Paul, MN @ Fitzgerald Theatre
04/26 – Edmonton, AB @ Winspear Centre
04/27 – Medicine Hat, AB @ Esplanade Arts & Heritage Centre
04/29 – Victoria, BC @ Royal Theatre
04/30 – Coquitlam, BC @ Red Robinson Show Theatre
05/01 – Seattle, WA @ Moore Theatre
05/03 – San Francisco, CA @ The Fillmore
05/04 – Los Angeles, CA @ John Anson Ford Amphitheatre
05/06 – San Diego, CA @ Humphreys Concerts by the Bay

As Media Specialist, part of my job requires me to go to the source of the media and document it. After a few days at Coachella, I have returned to Cluster 1 Headquarters to make sure all the newest videos are here for you all to see. Enjoy!

News:

Cluster 1 News with Sami Jarroush – Updates on Animal Collective, The National, Rage Against the Machine, Arcade Fire, and our Sasquatch contest!

Animation:

Instrumental Video #9 – Eventually…DJs will be replaced with robots.

Nokta – It’s an abstract short-film project with really cool animation, but needless to say, it freaks this guy the fuck out.

4000 Frames of Fury – Alex Evans creates a Phillip K. Dick style claymation of zombies rising from the grave. The undead are especially scary when the Gorillaz play in the background.

Another Round:

Kings Have Long Arms ft. Candie Payne – “Big Umbrella” – Shot in black and white in Manchester, not far from United’s football ground, Ms. [Candy] Payne purposefully strides down back alleys facing grim brickwork, along empty faceless streets and a canal towpath. Some charmingly amateurish and old-fashioned animation lends a couple of colourful interludes to the film noir.

Music Videos:

Daedelus – “Sundown (Haunted Dub)” – The last of the Room 205 series in which the DJ conjures up some truly spooky vibes.

Art Brut – “Last Weekend” – Sometimes music can bring the most eclectic group of people together. The proof lies in this video.

Kathryn Calder – “Arrow” – Animated video of a post-apocalyptic city, and a character who takes a page out of Noah’s book.

Grimes – “Vanessa” – It’s the definition of anti-pop….weird choreographed dancing complete with experimental rhythms.

Manchester Orchestra – “Simple Math” – They say your life flashes before your eyes prior to death, and we experience frontman Andy Hull’s flash in this video that shows what made him the man he is today.

Alexis – “Lonely Sea” – Alexis sings “You’ve forgotten who you are,” on this track, but looking into something as big as the ocean usually can help you figure it out. Judging by this video, this singer certainly figured things out.

Ponytail – “Honey Touches” – MENZ, the director of the video, states this clip depicts, “man’s everlasting battle with fruit and the pursuit of making the ultimate smoothie.” CoS’ Joe Marvilli, however, observes, “We think it’s a Fruitopia commercial that never was.”

Com Truise – “Fairlight” – Nothing like retro ’80s advertisements about the technological future, sewn together by 10lb Pictures to create a sleek, tech-based music video.

Gemini Club – “Future Tidings” – Personally, I think we need more unprecedented break dancing complete with an all-white suit.

George Watsky – “Stupidass” – People have always found Coldplay’s “The Scientist” to be a fantastic music video. This video takes that concept, but makes the message a bit more upbeat….primarily by starting it off not with a car crash, but a dude standing naked in a park.

Mario Basanov & Vidis feat. Jazzu – i’ll be gone” – This is your Polygraph detecting music….it’s way less stressful.

WhoMadeWho – “Every Minute Alone” – According to The Cure, “Boys don’t cry.” But according to WhoMadeWho, men most certainly cry. See for yourself.

Gentleman Drivers – “Valdor” – We always sit down for family Christmas dinners to devour our food and remember another year together. Well, what happens when the food decides to devour us? Merry Christmas? More like bah humbug!

Live:

Luke Rathborne – “Dog Years” – There are many activities one must engage in on tour when they aren’t playing music, and this live recording of “Dog Years” encapsulates Rathborne’s life on the road along with the music that takes him on his journey.

Wakey!Wakey! cover Yeasayer’s “Ambling Alp” [Live] – As part of the Cobra Den Invitational’s, Wakey!Wakey! had “Ambling Alp” stuck in their heads, and ended up replacing the synthesizers with violins. Now there’s a dope cover and a new video series!

Don’t Forget…

– Want a constant stream of musical goodness? Check out our Channel, featuring over 30 music videos, several short films, and other nifty clips, all crammed together in one non-stop barrage of visual and aural stimulation.

- Social networking is a way of life, so follow us at @cluster1tv and on Facebook

– R.I.P. The Stills.

– Lady Gaga‘s latest single, “Judas” hit the web.

– My Morning Jacket launched a Self-Hypnosis Series.

– LCD Soundsystem will release their final concert on DVD.

– Stream two tracks off Radiohead‘s Record Store Day single.

– In other news, there’s no such thing as The King of Limbs, pt 2.

– Death Cab for Cutie previewed three tracks from their new album.

– Watch the Arctic Monkeys’ new video for “Don’t Sit Down ‘Cause I’ve Moved Your Chair”.

– Soundgarden announced the first four dates for their first North American tour in 14 years.

– Santigold is back with a brand new single. Hear “Go”, featuring Karen O of the Yeah Yeah Yeahs.

– The Shins are back and gearing up for their first performance in three years. Also, hear them perform a new song.

– Awesome show alert: Rage Against the Machine is teaming up with Muse and Rise Against for a summer concert in Los Angeles.

– Pitchfork Music Festival rounded out its 2011 lineup with Thurston Moore, Superchunk, Battles, Toro Y Moi, tUnE-yArDs, Cold Cave, and more.

– Hear a taste of David Byne and Will Oldham‘s soundtrack for the upcoming film This Must Be The Place. Also see Sean Penn dress like The Cure’s Robert Smith.

– Wiz Khalifa, Thievery Corporation, Common, Neon Indian, Little Dragon, and Gogol Bordello are among the initial acts confirmed for this year’s North Coast Music Festival.

– The world biggest’s music festival revealed its 2011 lineup. U2, Coldplay, Beyoncé, Morrissey, Queens of the Stone Age, Chemical Brothers, Paul Simon, Bright Eyes, and a thousand more are set for Glastonbury 2011.

– Win a brand new Sony Bloggie Touch HD Camera.

Radiohead release two new tracks for Record Store Day, Coachella is streaming online for you to watch, a new song from Lady Gaga has leaked, Soundgarden is touring this summer and The Shins are starting to make a comeback.

Hosted and edited by: Sami Jarroush

Read the stories here:

• Check Out: Radiohead – “The Butcher” + “Supercollider” (HQ)
• It’s official: there’s no King of Limbs, pt 2
• Watch: Coachella 2011 webcast
• Check Out: Lady Gaga – “Judas”
• Soundgarden announces 2011 summer tour
• The Shins added to Outside Lands 2011

Soundgarden’s first-ever live album, Live on the I-5, has three things which make it stand out from other releases of its kind, right off the bat. For one, this is the first material Soundgarden has released since their breakup in 1997 (not counting last year’s resurrected “Black Rain”), which makes it automatically appreciated by any self-respecting fan. Second, the recordings were all captured during a slice of their 1996 tour, back when Chris Cornell’s voice was at its most powerful and the band still produced an aura of unity. Third…well, it’s Soundgarden. To say they were one of the strongest purveyors of grunge may sound outdated now, but there’s no denying the band’s near legendary place in that particular music scene.

The album title takes its name from Interstate 5, which runs up the West coast. The recorded shows all fall somewhere along that road, including Vancouver, BC, their hometown of Seattle, WA, Oakland and Del Mar, CA, and Salem, OR. Aside from playing a lot of their hits, such as the energetic “Spoonman” (in Del Mar), a raucous “Rusty Cage” (in Vancouver, BC), and the schizophrenic “Jesus Christ Pose” (in Oakland), there are some unusual twists and turns.  A successfully slinkier version of “Black Hole Sun” (performed in Seattle), and a frenzied rendition of “Ty Cobb” come to life, while a slowed-down cover of “Helter Skelter” and a version of The Stooges’ “Search and Destroy” give fans some “new” material to feast their ears on.

Cornell’s voice sounds noticeably rough and broken at parts (“Let Me Down” comes to mind), but, for the most part, he manages to maintain his famous guttural wail throughout. The sound is also exceptionally well-mixed, and the output from the audience never overpowers the songs. Instead, it adds just enough excitement and atmosphere. The only caveat here is that the recordings were done at different shows during the tour, which can hamper any feelings of continuity. Luckily, these recordings flow together nicely for the most part, at times giving the impression that they could have been recorded in one place, at one time.

There’s nothing too exceptional about Live on the I-5, but given that this is the first new release from the recent reincarnation of Soundgarden, it’s worth a listen. Plus, knowing that the band is working on new material, it’s just enough to tide over the band’s patient fanbase while still keeping people on their toes.

The set, which features takes from the band’s 1996 west coast tour, will be released on March 22nd and features 17 tracks, including live versions of “Spoonman”, “Rusty Cage”, and the legendary take on “Jesus Christ Pose” that was recorded at an Oakland, Calif. stop in December ’96. Also featured on Live are covers of The Beatles’ “Helter Skelter” and The Stooges’ “Search & Destroy”.

Seattle, Wash.-based producer/engineer Adam Kasper is the man responsible for recording the tracks, and according to SPIN, he’ll also oversee the band’s upcoming album of new material, which they plan to begin tracking as soon as next week. Knowing that Chris Cornell & co. will be in the studio is good news, the not-so-good news is that fans may be waiting a while to hear new music.

“We’re putting the music first,” Cornell told SPIN, “the process of writing, recording, and being creative together is the most important thing, not meeting a deadline – it’s not like we’re going to go into the studio and come out when we’re finished with the album.” He added that he’ll be hitting the road for a solo acoustic tour in the spring and that there might be hope for hearing brand-new tunes sooner than we think. “[Soundgarden] plan on playing shows for sure – that’s never been in question,” he said. “Then we have some time [to] get back in the studio.”

The tracklist for Live On I-5 is available below and you can pre-order the album at Amazon.com. Full details (including recording locations for all of the tracks) are available here.

Live on I-5 Tracklist:
01. Spoonman
02. Searching With My Good Eye Closed
03. Let Me Drown
04. Head Down
05. Outshined
06. Rusty Cage
07. Burden In My Hand
08. Helter Skelter (The Beatles)
09. Boot Camp
10. Nothing To Say
11. Slaves And Bulldozers
12. Dusty
13. Fell On Black Days
14. Search & Destroy (The Stooges)
15. Ty Cobb
16. Black Hole Sun
17. Jesus Christ Pose

And how do I know this?  They’ll be too busy obsessing over that new Radiohead record.

Come to think of it, what I am doing here? I should be listening to that record myself. Like right now.

Excuse me…

Oh, and feel free to skim the following recap. That is, if you haven’t already come to your senses like I have.

See you next week, same time and place.

– Download the Radiohead new record. And watch this video while you’re at it.

– Arcade Fire won album of the year at the Grammys. That’s right. ALBUM OF THE FREAKING YEAR.

– Win Butler and co. are also going on tour!

– Bonnaroo 2011‘s lineup is finally here!! (note the double exclamation points)

– What do U2, Coldplay, and, um, Beyonce have in common? They’re slated to headline this year’s installment of Glastonbury.

– South By Southwest made even more additions to its already stacked 2011 bill.

– LCD Soundsystem made their final television appearance on — you guessed it — The Colbert Report.

– The Strokes announced a date at Madison Square Garden.

– Jeff Mangum came out of hiding to schedule a small tour and curate an ATP Festival.

– Soundgarden revealed that they’ve been writing some “cool” new music, too.

– Blur followed suit. However, they insist that we won’t hear any of that  material for a very, very long time.

– Phoenix discussed their yet-to-be-recorded fifth LP, the follow-up the massively popular Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix.

– Death Cab for Cutie confirmed the release date for their forthcoming album, Codes and Keys.

– Foo Fighters‘ forthcoming album now has a title.

– Jim Morrison rose from the dead… kind of.

– Rammstein will tour North America for the first time in a long time.

– Prince added even more dates to his Welcome 2 America tour.

– MTV detailed the pending resurrection of Beavis and Butt-Head.

– Odd Future tore it up on Fallon.

– The Cars are back… for the first time in 24 years.

– What would week  here at CoS be without one of our trademark giveaways? Click here to find out more.

– Nick Freed reviewed the best non-Radiohead album of 2011 (so far): PJ Harvey‘s Let England Shake.

– Swedish pop starlet Robyn played Chicago’s Riveria on Valentine’s Day. Jeremy D. Larson was there.

– Larson also found time to interview Wild Nothing‘s Jack Tatum this week.

– Don’t forget to check out Cluster 1 either.

Radiohead and Death Cab for Cutie are releasing new albums, the Bonnaroo festival lineup has been revealed, and Soundgarden is working on new music.

Hosted and edited by: Sami Jarroush

Read the stories here:

• Radiohead to release eighth album The King of Limbs this Saturday!
• Death Cab for Cutie announce Codes and Keys release date
• Soundgarden confirm new music
• Bonnaroo 2011 taps Eminem, Arcade Fire, Buffalo Springfield

News:

- Our host Sami Jarroush continues to dish the news, this time on Radiohead, Death Cab For Cutie, Soundgarden, & Bonnaroo. Good stuff all around.

Series:

- Join our indie rapper amigo bleubird this week for “Episode #35: South of the Border” as he makes his way down the East Coast’s fantastic Interstate-95, and comes across the gigantic tourist attraction that is South of the Border. The rapper even goes on to explain “Anyone who has ever driven up or down I-95 along the east coast knows a little somethin somethin about SOTB, they have ridiculous advertisements for 100 miles in each direction taunting and tantalizing your curiosity. Then when you finally do stop it’s nothing but a dressed up, run-down, depressed, rest stop. The type of place J.W. Gacy might have a hot dog and stab a methed out trucker. BUT you can get ice cream, firecrackers, and ridiculous fanfare…which I love! So cheers to you SOTB.” Don’t forget to check out the exclusive Cluster 1 intro for the show here.

Music Videos:

- Moby recently announced his tenth studio album, Destroyed. Already, he’s on the hype machine, unveiling a new EP and one hectic video, too. For his new single “Be The One”, Moby shows us where he’s been over the past year or two. As we suggested yesterday, don’t forget your Dramamine.

- With all the buzz surrounding The Strokes lately, we decided to revisit the band’s old videography, specifically 2002′s “Someday”. This is the start to a new weekly music videos series, called Another Round, which will showcase oldies such as these, coupled with an analysis and some background on Consequence of Sound. We thought watching Julian Casablancas massacre a greasy burger would be a good kickoff.

- Pop-punk gods, the Get-Up Kids, are back with a new video entitled “Automatic”, which depicts a telekinetic dream of an automatic car wash, and your brother’s sweet ride. The track comes from their new album, There Are Rules.

- Check out the new video from rapper Schaffer the Darklord for the song, “The Bender”. What starts out as a casual “one drink” evening, turns into a series of drug-fueled and crazy shenanigans. Talk about a true bender there! The song comes from Schaffer the Darklord’s new album, Manslaughter. Oh yeah, NSFW!

- Our lo-fi pals No Age return with a new clip. What starts as a normal day in the band’s high-tech warehouse flat, ends in calamity as the entire room tries to eat them. The video for “Fever Dreaming”, off their latest album Everything in Between, was directed by modern video great, Patrick Daughters, who’s done videos for Interpol, Feist, Beck, Death Cab for Cutie and Grizzly Bear to name a few.  Do not miss.

- Regular readers of CoS might recognize the name Joemca as someone worth “Checking Out” on a recent Friday Mixtape, but our introduction to the L.A. native/New York transplant doesn’t stop there we present you with the music video premiere for the aforementioned “Big Dreams”. The clip, which was shot in two days on a farm in upstate New York and directed by E.S. Frushtick, adds some stunning scenery behind those head-nodding beats and grabbing hooks. A nice four-minute diversion from hump day if you ask me.

Don’t Forget….

– Want a constant stream of musical goodness? Check out our Channel, featuring over 30 music videos, several short films, and other nifty clips, all crammed together in one non-stop barrage of visual and aural stimulation.

- Social networking is a way of life, so follow us at @cluster1tv and on Facebook.

Over the past few months, we’ve been busy jamming, writing and hanging out together – exploring the creative aspect of being Soundgarden. It feels great. We have some cool new songs that we are going to record very soon. Thank you for all of the support!

Loudest of Love,

Ben, Chris, Kim and Matt

– Well this might explain why Soundgarden have yet to follow up last summer’s headlining performance at Lollapalooza. It also means we no longer have to consider a 13-year-old track new music. While we don’t have any other details just yet, perhaps our friends at Antiquiet summed it up best: “SOUNDGARDEN NEW ALBUM MOTHERFUCKERS.”

But what about the wonder drummers, the ones who defy the above point by becoming just as essential as the front person or lead guitarist? The most obvious are John Bonham and Keith Moon, as they both helped create their respective bands’ unmistakable identity, so much so that when they died, so did those bands. Look closer and one can find that there have been a few that have since carried equal weight in their bands and are still going strong. For an example of this, I give you, the mighty Matt Cameron.

Cameron is a legend in the world of alternative rock. Not only was he a grunge pioneer in the late eighties, he has also gone on to become one of the most sought-after rock drummers to date, with honorable mentions and song credits that can be found almost everywhere in modern rock. He’s written for the Smashing Pumpkins, was the force behind the rise of Soundgarden, and was a part of Temple of the Dog. He even helped give Queens of the Stone Age its start, playing on their debut EP, and sitting in for their first ever show. And since 1998, Cameron has called Pearl Jam his home while also sitting in on numerous side projects, including the bands Hater, Wellwater, and Conspiracy, to name only a few. He’s built quite the resume and managed to perplex, challenge, and push every band he’s touched beyond its pre-conceived limits. What would you expect when you put a jazz drummer behind a rock band?

But before all that, he had to start somewhere. Hailing from San Diego, Cameron spent his teen years playing in high school rock bands. His first break into the national scene was with a spot on the soundtrack for none other than the 1978 cult classic Attack of the Killer Tomatoes, with his track, “Puberty Love”.

In 1983, Cameron moved to Seattle, Washington to pursue rock. Working with a string of hardcore (and what we now call early grunge) bands, he would build himself to be somewhat of a local star. This notoriety would again get a boost with the band Skin Yard, a band often credited with stirring up the grunge movement in the first place. His career with Skin Yard only got to its self-titled debut before a desperate, early incarnation of Soundgarden was looking for a drummer to replace Scott Sundquist, and reached out to Cameron.

Cameron had the unique ability to make odd time signatures sound traditional, giving Cornell and company real challenges to work with, as they built their songs around Cameron’s curious kitwork. Tracks like “Jesus Christ Pose” (off of Soundgarden’s third album, Badmotorfinger) show this perfectly, as Cameron pounds out an onslaught of avant-metal rhythms. To his credit, Cameron would go on to pen over a dozen tracks with the band, some that would turn out to be the heaviest, most driving material they would release.

Like all good things, this came to an end in 1997, when Soundgarden disbanded, leaving Cameron a free man, but that wouldn’t last for long. A mere one year later, old friend Eddie Vedder was stranded without a drummer, right before Pearl Jam’s Yield tour was to take off. Pearl Jam’s then-drummer, Jack Irons, split for personal reasons (he allegedly hated touring, and couldn’t handle the demanding, long sets) after a string of dates in Hawaii. Vedder was quick to court Cameron. The original deal was a temporary one, but Cameron joined the band full time shortly, and has been with them ever since.

Vedder had always been inspired and in awe of what Cameron could do, and when they started writing together, it pushed Pearl Jam in ways Vedder couldn’t have imagined. Vedder’s feelings are expressed quite perfectly in the liner notes of the 2003 Lost Dogs compilation, boasting that “Matt Cameron writes songs and we run to find the stools in order to reach his level. What comes naturally to him leaves us with our heads cocked like the confused dogs that we are eventually getting it. Did we mention he’s the greatest drummer on the planet?”

While Moon and Bonham built their bands up, rising from the bars to the stadiums, Cameron gave life to one, and reinvigorated another of rock’s most illustrious acts. By also contributing to countless others in the process, his work has made him the most sought after drummer in the past 20 years. Go see a Pearl Jam show, wait for one of the many inevitable solos, and you’ll see why. Vedder was right in his 2003 statement; No one touches Cameron.

Fresh off the recent announcement of Soundgarden’s first live album, frontman Chris Cornell has an announcement of his own. Sorry, kids, no Soundgarden tour dates just yet, but Cornell will be hitting the road this Spring for his first-ever solo acoustic tour. The upcoming trek will follow a similar format to Cornell’s recent “Songbook” performances in Los Angeles, with setlists spanning the vocalist’s entire career, including selections from Cornell’s time as a member of Soundgarden and Audioslave as well as his solo efforts. For a preview, check out video from Cornell’s December 2009 performance at Hotel Cafe in L.A.

Those who sign up sign up for the Chris Cornell mailing list will receive a special pre-sale password. Head on over to the CC tour page for further event details.

Chris Cornell 2011 Tour Dates:
04/01 – Austin, TX @ Paramount Theatre
04/02 – Houston, TX @ House of Blues
04/03 – Dallas, TX @ House of Blues
04/05 – Atlanta, GA @ Center Stage
04/06 – Asheville, NC @ The Orange Peel
04/08 – Bridgeport, CT @ The Klein Memorial Auditorium
04/09 – Boston, MA @ Berklee Performance Hall
04/10 – Glenside, PA @ Keswick Theatre
04/12 – New York, NY @ Town Hall Theatre
04/15 – Atlantic City, NJ @ Music Box – Borgata Hotel & Casino
04/16 – Montclair, NJ @ Wellmont Theatre
04/17 – Washington, DC @ Sixth & I Historic Synagogue
04/19 – Poughkeepsie, NY @ Bardavon
04/20 – Toronto, ON @ Queen Elizabeth Theatre
04/22 – Chicago, IL @ Vic Theatre
04/23 – Milwaukee, WI @ Pabst Theater
04/24 – St. Paul, MN @ Fitzgerald Theatre
04/26 – Edmonton, AB @ Winspear Centre
04/27 – Medicine Hat, AB @ Esplanade Arts & Heritage Centre
04/29 – Victoria, BC @ Royal Theatre
04/30 – Coquitlam, BC @ Red Robinson Show Theatre
05/01 – Seattle, WA @ Moore Theatre
05/03 – San Francisco, CA @ The Fillmore
05/04 – Los Angeles, CA @ John Anson Ford Amphitheatre
05/06 – San Diego, CA @ Humphreys Concerts by the Bay

Not counting late night television performances on Conan, the reunited Soundgarden haven’t played a show since capping off the 2k10 edition of Lollapalooza. Additional dates are promised, but for the time being, here’s something to help hold you over.

As Rock It Out! Blog reports, the iconic grunge rockers are set to release their first-ever live album on March 22nd. Entitled Live On I5, the 17-track collection features recordings from five different stops of their 1996 tour — Del Mar, CA; Oakland, CA; Vancouver, BC, Canada; Salem, OR and Seattle, WA — and includes version of The Stooges’ “Search And Destroy” and The Beatles’ “Helter Skelter”. Peep the tracklist below.

The rest of Soundgarden’s 2011 plans are still forthcoming, but the band has mentioned everything from a new album to a b-sides collection to more tour dates. So stay tuned.

Live On I5 Tracklist:
01. Spoonman
02. Searching With My Good Eye Closed
03. Let Me Drown
Tracks 1-3: Recorded live at Crosby Hall, Del Mar Fairgrounds, Del Mar, CA – November 30, 1996
04. Head Down
Recorded live at Mercer Arena, Seattle, WA – December 18, 1996
05. Outshined
Recorded live at Crosby Hall, Del Mar Fairgrounds, Del Mar, CA – November 30, 1996
06. Rusty Cage
Recorded live at Pacific National Exhibition Forum, Vancouver, BC, Canada – December 7, 1996
07. Burden In My Hand
Recorded live at Salem Armory, Salem, OR – December 8, 1996
08. Helter Skelter
09. Boot Camp
Tracks 8 and 9: Recorded live at Crosby Hall, Del Mar Fairgrounds, Del Mar, CA – November 30, 1996
10. Nothing To Say
Recorded live at Mercer Arena, Seattle, WA – December 18, 1996
11. Slaves And Bulldozers
12. Dusty
13. Fell On Black Days
Tracks 11-13: Recorded live at Henry J. Kaiser Convention Center, Oakland, CA – December 5, 1996
14. Search And Destroy
Recorded live at Mercer Arena, Seattle, WA – December 18, 1996
15. Ty Cobb
Recorded live at Crosby Hall, Del Mar Fairgrounds, Del Mar, CA – November 30, 1996
16. Black Hole Sun
Recorded live at Mercer Arena, Seattle, WA – December 17, 1996
17. Jesus Christ Pose
Recorded live at Henry J. Kaiser Convention Center, Oakland, CA – December 5, 1996?

And then one day we found out we’re the best.

We were browsing the internet a couple of days ago when we came across About.com’s picks for the best blogs of 2010. We’re their favorite music site.

It hasn’t quite sunk in yet, but we assure you we’ll do our best not to believe our own hype. We’ll still provide you with consistently, up-to-the-minute coverage of all things music. In the end, it’s not the honor that matters. It’s what we did to deserve it that does.

We plan on keeping it that way.

– The 2011 Grammy nominees were revealed.

– Jeff Mangum caused a bunch of hipsters to commit suicide.

–Bright Eyes announced what may be their final LP, The People’s Key.

– PJ Harvey gave us a taste of what’s to come.

– Jack White insisted that he’s not exploiting anyone.

– Kanye West‘s My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy reached #1.

– Yo La Tengo and Jeff Tweedy played some songs together in celebration of Hanukkah.

– Bon Jovi announced a hiatus. So did Wolf Parade.

– Want to pick a song that will be on Patrick Stump‘s forthcoming solo effort? Click here to find out more.

– The Killers put out a holiday single. Coldplay followed suit.

– The Decemberists will release a deluxe box set for their upcoming sixth LP, The King Is Dead.

– The Streets will release a compilation of room recordings.

– On that note, Spoon will put out a collection of outtakes and other bonus material.

– The Clash are producing a film about their seminal 1979 effort, London Calling.

– Michael Cera played with newly formed indie supergroup Mister Heavenly.

– Is vinyl dead? Find out more here.

– Jimmy Tamborello told us not to expect a new Postal Service LP anytime soon.

– Soundgarden divulged some of their plans for the future.

– And just in case you haven’t spent enough money this holiday season, we updated our Holiday Shopping Guide and debuted our online store.

– Michael Roffman interviewed Joy Division/New Order/Freebass bassist and all-around legend Peter Hook.

– Before you check out our Megan Ritt’s review of the Tron:Legacy Soundtrack, be sure to read David Buchanan’s look at the 1982 original’s score in the latest edition of Cinema Sounds.

– Winston Robbins shared his thoughts on Niki Minaj‘s Pink Friday, easily one of the biggest debuts this year.

– Faith No More said goodbye last week with two shows in L.A. Karina Halle was there for both of them.

Right. Soundgarden. If you’ve hung on all this time, you’ve likely spent this year in bliss. Their first performance in 13 years, their headlining performance at Lollapalooza, an unreleased track and the video to it, and, most recently, the a ferocious performance on Conan. Talk about a comeback.

You may be wondering, then, what their next plans are. Well, in an interview with a Canadian radio station (via Blabbermouth), Soundgarden guitarist Kim Thayil revealed that a new studio album may actually be in the works.

“It’s very likely in the future, perhaps sooner than later, we’ll get together and de-emphasize the rehearsing part and emphasize the jamming part,” he said.

As for when that’ll actually happen, you’ll likely have to be patient. Thayil pointed out that the members of the band still have their side projects to take care of, but as soon as those are done, they’ll be focusing all of their energy on Soundgarden.

To further whet appetites, Soundgarden is also planning to release live records and B-side collection, plus Thayil promises more live performances are coming. “We had a live album in the can just waiting for someone to mix it,” he said. “We wanted to do a B-side album and that might be two or three albums. We’ll be doing other shows and working on releasing some albums from deeper in our catalog.” So if you’ve hung on this long previous to this year, you’ll have a little bit more to tide you over, but you ought to be patient enough to hang on a little more.