DJ Mehdi is part of Ed Banger Records, the French electronic music label, ran by Pedro Winter aka Busy P. Other notable names on the label are Justice, SebastiAn, Uffie, and Mr. Oizo. Busy P and DJ Mehdi collaborated for the recently released album Let The Children Techno which features Ed Banger artists. It is good but not amazing, if your looking for a dope song and music video check out DJ Mehdi's jam "I Am Somebody" below featuring Chromeo.
If your looking for some beats tonight stop by The Gothic to check out Chase & Status.
Lollapalooza is celebrating it's 20th anniversary August 5-7 at Grant Park in Chicago. The festival that started like a traveling circus for Jane's Addiction farewell tour in 1991 supported by other alternative rock bands didn't call it quits when Jane's Addiction did. The tour continued annually until 1997. In 2003 it hit the road again but failed to find it's legs in 2004 canceling the tour. After being cancelled the promoters realized the format needed changing. Like most things that mature Lolla planted it's roots. With the beautiful skyline of Chicago to the West and the lake to the East Grant Park in Chicago was an ideal location for a 3 day festival. Since 2005 they have had headliners such as Widespread Panic, Daft Punk, Green Day, Kanye West, Radiohead, and Rage Against The Machine just to name a few. Even acts that in early years were on small stages stepped up to be mainstage headliners, ever heard of some weird girl who grew up to become Lady Gaga?
This year's lineup has something for everyone. Perry's taste has definitely changed over the years from alt rock to electronic music which represents his own playing style seeing how he frequently DJs now. Because of this he has "Perry's," a stage filled with some of the hottest acts in electronic music. Not to mention he also brought in Deadmau5 as one of the top billed acts. Check out thelineup here and it looks like this year is my best shot for making it back since 2008.
Prelude: I wrote this piece back in September for a website as a series they had for featuring artists and their "essentials." They never posted this so I thought I'd share.
Being from Chicago I’m surely biased but the band Umphrey’s McGee is truly challenging traditional jam band music.Meeting at Notre Dame Brendan Bayliss, Ryan Stasik, Joel Cummins, and Andy Farag started the group then adding Jake Cinninger and Kris Myers to complete the band in 2002 creating the present day Umphrey’s McGee.They gained notoriety and a following through their live shows, especially Bonnaroo in 2002 outselling live recordings of both jam band heavy weights Widespread Panic and Trey Anastasio.Now they have grown from a local jam band to worldwide progressive rock superstars continuing to push music to the edge and back.
It was when Anchor Drops (2004) was released that the Umprhey’s phenomenon picked up steam. Being distributed nation wide for the first time they were gaining fans all across the country. It also helped that at the same time Rolling Stone named them “odds-on favorites in the next-Phish Sweepstakes.” Since then they released two more studio albums, Safety in Numbers (2006) and Mantis (2009). The Bottom Half(2007) was made up of b-side tracks not making their way onto Safety in Numbers and other previously recorded music. They also released two live albums in 2007 Live at the Murat and Jimmy Stewart.
The studio is not where the band is most impressive and able to showcase their true skill. Being exceptionally talented musicians they are able to put together the tightest live concert on tour today. They have always been crowd pleasers by playing fun covers such as “Fat Bottomed Girls” by Queen, “Dr. Feelgood” by Motley Crue, and “Comfortably Numb” by Pink Floyd. That combined with their cult classic originals and improved jams known as “Jimmy Stewart” Umphrey’s creates a unique show only they can deliver. Lucky for you they record every live show for purchase through their website www.umlive.net.
This group constantly leaves sold out shows yelling, “We want the UMPH, got to have that UMPH.” If you ever have the chance to see them live take it without hesitation and you’ll be converted. Picking the “essentials” is obviously a difficult task but here is a playlist of the songs that I like and you should too.
Greatest Hits:
It is tough to categorize their songs to “greatest hits” seeing how they are not a band that sees radio airtime or are remotely close to the Billboard top 20 but here are my picks. These are songs that every fan would immediately recognize and will introduce you to Umphrey’s McGee.
1. Front Porch
2. In the Kitchen
3. Women Wine & Song
4. Anchor Drops
5. Nemo
6. 1348
B-Sides:
This collection consists of some of my favorite Umphrey’s jams.These are probably the most fun songs to hear live as well.
7. Mulche’s Odyssey
8. Turn & Run (If you like this check out “Turn & Dub” the dub version)
9. Wife Soup
10. Hajimemashite
11. Cemetery Walk
12. Partyin’ Peeps
13. Hangover
14. Andy’s Last Beer
Covers/Mash-Ups:
As I mentioned before, Umphrey’s throws down covers of well-picked songs.Along with pounding party favorites they have taken covers to the 21st century doing full band mash-ups like this mind blower of “Come Together” by the Beatles and “Closer” by NIN known as “Come Closer.”
15. Come Closer
16. Sweet Sunglasses
17. 1901/Jump Mashup
18. Fuck You – Cee Lo cover
19. Ain’t Nuthin But a G Thang – Dr Dre and Snoop Dogg cover
Colorado is Playboy's #1 party school for a myriad of reasons but a component I didn't see in the news brief was that we have one of the most amazing music scenes in the country. CU is embracing that and throwing down GlowFest. This is an event that started at Indiana University - Bloomington in 2010 with LMFAO and Mike Posner headlining. This year they stepped it up even further and had Chiddy Bang open for Pretty Lights. CU's inaugural GlowFest is being held in the Balch Fieldhouse and features Crystal Castles (DJ Set) opening for hometown heros Savoy who are all CU alum. This is not the first time Savoy has played on campus. In 2009 they opened the welcome back festival for Pretty Lights on Ferrand Field. CU spokesman Bronson Hilliard is really trying to make an argument that CU doesn't promote the party school image but we have free shows from the likes of Savoy, Pretty Lights, Girl Talk, and Tea Leaf Green? Child please.
Since graduating the trio has moved to NY to take their game to the next level. I respect their move and hope the best for them but I really do prefer their earlier work. Lately they've been getting into more of a house sound. They've got some filthy beats but I miss the days of "Get Some Action" and "Welcome to Jamrock" when the bass drops made faces and panties hit the floor. Here is one of their new remix of 90's anthem "Pump the Jam" that I first experienced when they dropped it at The Ogden in November. That was also the evening that they introduced their lasers. They are awesome (Ghostland Observatory still takes the cake for lasers) and the crowd loves them. If your able to make it to the show get there early to see local acts Sorry for Partying, FRESH2DEATH, and THiCK CHiCK. Bon appetite.
Colorado has some hot acts tonight in Denver, Boulder, and Fort Collins. Collie Buddz is playing at The Bluebird so if you are in the mood for some reggae or to continue your 4/20 holiday into the 21st that is the place to be.
Porter Robinson is playing at The Fox with Sorry for Partying opening. This kid is only 18 years old and truly has exploded into the the electro scene. He's toured across the country and world opening up for heavyweights like Deadmau5, Tiesto, and Moby. He's even had electro master Armand Van Helden remix his song, "Say My Name." Porter started with more of a house sound but recently has been dropping some dubstep bangers that will fulfill your daily does of bass. I've been over the Yolanda Be Cool & DCUP "We No Speak Americano" remixes but Porter just dropped one that is HOT. It is different from most and brings a fat dub bass line that makes you say uugggghhhhhh. Donwload it here.
Finally, Robotic Pirate Monkey is playing at The Aggie up in Fort Collins. The weekend is so close I can taste it, hopefully everyone has made it through the work week and I'll see you on the wild side.
Colorado has become a breeding ground of electronic music. There has been a massive explosion of popularity in the genre across the country but ever since Pretty Lights, Savoy, and Big Gigantic came out of Colorado we've seen more and more up and coming talent in the area. Tonight at the Boulder Theater you can catch two new artists who are already well known in the centennial state and are on their way to becoming headline acts.
Paper Diamond has been around for a while but only recently as Paper Diamond. He was previously known as Alex B and has really honed in his producing skills as of late. Also he has made the addition of using an iPad to his deck so he is pretty mobile on stage which is way different from a traditional dj. His remixes of "Power" and "Turnin Me On," his album Levitate, and live shows has created a following in the area and he is planning on really bringing it tonight in Boulder. "We are going to treat this like a holiday. We're going to have amazing lights and sound, and build this into something cool."
Michal Menert grew up with Derek Vincent Smith of Pretty lights in Fort Collins and his music definitely reflects their friendship. Listening to Michal Menert you can hear some similarities to Pretty Lights but he has his own style that reflects his more worldly upbringing seeing how he is originally from Poland. I've been super stoked on Michal Menert since December and was truly bummed when I couldn't get anyone to go to his show at Cervantes in February. Sure enough Derek came and played with him where they debuted all of the new Pretty Lights remixes. Dom Lalli of Big Gigantic has confirmed that he'll be at the show tonight, will you?
This is a busy week in Colorado providing something for every one. Donald Glover, aka Childish Gambino, aka mcDJ, aka Troy from Community is playing The Fox tonight in Boulder. First thing first, no Donald Glover is not related to Danny Glover. Childish Gambino is Donald Glover's rap name. If you don't know who Donald Glover is I would start by watching Community where he plays Troy. The cast of Community is stacked with Joel McHale (The Soup), Chevy Chase (Caddyshack), Ken Jeong (The Hangover), Danny Pudi, Alison Brie (Mad Men), Gillian Jacobs, and Yvette Nicole Brown. This show is hilarious and one I definitely follow. Donald Glover has blown up since being discovered by Tina Fey. First writing for 30 Rock, then Community, followed by a Comedy Central stand-up special, he is now touring the country on his rap tour.
The issue with most comedians trying to rap is that you can't take them serious or their lyrics have no meaning. Don't get me wrong I still feel Eddie Murphy's "Party All The Time," is the jam but he is the exception. Remember Nick Cannon? Always wild'n'out before marrying Mariah Carey? Surprisingly enough he started his career in the rap game. I'm not surprised his game imploded though, you can't tell a girl they're a "Dime Piece," only to let them know your a "Gigolo," then be surprised that "Your Pops Don't Like Me." Good thing Mariah keeps him on a short leash.
Childish Gambino brings the flow with hot lyrics and some pretty great analogies. Here is his new EP that features my favorite song "Freaks and Geeks." This song is my favorite and there are so many hilarious lines I had to write a few out.
"Fly girl on her knees she don't wana come near me yeah my dick is too big there's a big bang theory."
"Love is a trip but fucking is a sport, are there asian girls here? Minority report."
"Chillin' with my n words, say it like a white kid, yes your booty big as hers, say it to my white bitch, so she don't get embarrassed... My dick is made of carrots, bunnies wana be fed it, I meant hunnies o forget it."
The best part is that if you watch Community you know Troy is the nerdy athlete who probably couldn't get through half of the line without giggling. Donald Glover is on a mission to conquer the world and he is well on his way doing it his own way. Check it out.
The University of Colorado was named the 2011 #1 party school this week by Playboy. I could write a full on novel about how great Boulder is for so many different reasons. College was the best four years of my life and it probably was for you too, maybe even for five or six years. I've always known Boulder should be number one. We have everything any other college has (minus beachfront schools but hey, we've got Boulder Reservoir) plus more. It is nice that we've gotten the recognition we deserve but I hope it send the administration on a mission to get rid of this moniker. It sounds like they're taking it lightly with Bronson Hilliard saying, "It's a joke rating. It's not meaningful, it doesn't measure anything important... it measures perception and it's unfortunate." To those who have never been to Boulder, visit and you'll get it.
There is so much bass in Denver Friday that buildings may start crumbling. Playing at The Gothic is Mimosa and at The Ogden Zeds Dead is performing. Mimosa has been a popular act in Colorado ever since opening for Pretty Lights at Red Rocks. He has a sold-out show at The Boulder Theater on Saturday. Zeds Dead is a relative new comer to the scene but they've been releasing hot remixes that have gotten them a lot of attention as well as a set at Snow Ball Music Festival.
I love me some whomp but I'm a jam band guy at heart. I'm super excited because Breckenridge is hosting a free moe. concert this Saturday 3-5pm at Peak 8. Vail has Grace Potter & The Nocturnals playing for free tonight as well. Both resorts close April 24th so get those final runs of the season in while you can and enjoy some crunchy tunes afterwards. Hope everyone has a fun and safe weekend.
a hiatus for bassist David Murphy to battle cancer, the frontman has come out victorious and they are back on the road again. Their debut show since the break was a set at Ultra Music Festival in Miami.
Here is their set list:Scheme, When The Dust Settles, Atlas, Abcees, Rent, Evasive Maneuvers, Unquestionable Supremacy Of Nature, EHM
It was definitely geared toward the Ultra crowd with songs like "Scheme," "When The Dust Settles," "Unquestionable Supremacy of Nature," and "EHM." Coming up they have two shows in Athens at the Classic Center, one of which is already sold out, then two shows in St. Louis at The Pageant. Once they wrap up those four shows they hit the festival circuit and hit it hard. They play Nocturnal Festival, Hangout Festival, Summer Camp Festival, Wakarusa, Bonnaroo, Re:Generation, All Good Festival, and wrap up at Outside Lands Festival. Road trip anyone?
Today they announced that they will be playing a three night run in Colorado kicking off at The Ogden in Denver on 9/8 before a two night run at Red Rocks Amphitheatre. The first time they played Red Rocks was 2003 and they have played every year since then. I've only seen 3 of their 9 Red Rock runs and the band brings the heat every time. If it is a jam for the funky footed or a straight banger for those breaking necks they have it all in their repertoire. The band is definitely different in many aspects since their first headline show at Red Rocks but they have grown and incorporated past with present that leaves everyone happy and wanting more. Tickets go on sale through their fan club at 1pm MST this Friday. See all you gobnuggets looking back on earth from the moon socket.
Friday was the first meeting of the Denver Exploratory Club which took place at the 1up. The bar itself was pretty cool with classic games like Galaga, Pac-Man, Paper Boy, and many more all of which cost only 25 cents. The downside was that 1up had gotten a lot of new hype so they actually had a line to get in which I can't stand for (no pun intended), then I go up to the bar and order 4 shots of Jack Daniels to be told I owe them $24... Not only was this a little pricey for my liking but they were promoting their long island ice teas which would put you back $15 and they had rules saying any drink with 3 ingredients was a certain price, 4 was this much, and so on and so on (I don't like rules). Not the best watering hole by any means but definitely a good place to go with friends on an off night or once the excitement cools off. Stay posted for the next DEC meeting.
There were all kinds of other things going on in Denver but here is a clip of a new Datsik song he played for the first time at the Ogden. I have a link for a download of his remix "Animale" by Don Diablo featuring Dragonette. I know Bassnectar's Snow Ball set has been a repetitive subject on here but I didn't even realize when he dropped this beast of a beat that it was a Datsik remix, enjoy it here.
Can't wait for the rebirth of a dynasty. The spring game is today at 6pm on Folsom Field and free! Come see the new coaching staff that is leading us to Pac-12 and National Championships.
This weekend has a lot going on. Playing at The Ogden on Saturday is one of the major players in the dub step scene, Datsik. Here is a hilarious video from Dom Mazzetti about dub step, I would highly suggest watching his other videos.
Also on Saturday, The Crystal Method are playing a dj set at Beta and Redman & Method Man are at City Hall. Breckenridge will also be hosting a free concert by The Wailers and will be continuing their spring Beer Festival. I went last year and there are a ton of great Breweries and for $25 you can get your money's worth.
Tonight is the first meeting of the Denver Exploratory Club. The goal of this group is to visit new and unknown establishments. To kick it off we will be going to a new bar called The 1UP. It is located at 1925 Blake Street and is filled with vintage video games. There is nothing like it in lodo and I think it is a great concept. One cool piece of trivia about the bar is that artist Jason Garcia who frequently performs with STS9 was the one to paint the mural behind the stage area. All are welcome so I hope to see you explorers out there.
Tonight is a big grudge match between the Chicago Bulls and Boston Celtics. They are currently number 1 and 2 in the Eastern Conference and both are contenders to bring home the title of NBA Champion. Last April the two met for one of the best series in recent playoff history going to game 7 with the Celtics coming out on top. This has left a sour taste in the Bulls mouth and they are out for vengeance. Rose and Rondo have beef and Noah and Garnett have both been very vocal about their distain for one and other. Tonight may be providing us a preview of the Eastern Conference Finals so this has the feel of a playoff game.
I've never been the best athlete on the court or field but I never was the worse. I had to be competitive by using hustle and hard work. This is why growing up in Chicago during the Jordan era I was the minority who's favorite player was not wearing 23 or 45 for that matter. Mine wore 91, dyed his hair, and wore a wedding dress in public. Dennis Rodman, long thought of as the NBA bad boy, was the man I modeled my prepubescent game after. Banging the boards, throwing elbows, and sacrificing my body to keep every play alive was my game. This appreciation of hard work has come full circle with the new Bulls squad. In 2007 I was outraged when the Bulls used their #9 pick for Joakim Noah from Florida. I didn't like Florida and I especially didn't like their big man even though his championship celebration dance was hilarious. Over time though Noah has matured and worked harder than most professional athletes and it has shown in his game. His hard work partnered with Derrick Rose's natural talent and Tom Thibodeau's coaching the Bulls have become a force to be reckoned with.
Check out this link to get really jacked up click here.
Maybe you’ve noticed but I’ve been putting up some shorter posts recently.My goal is to do one “feature” a week with shorter posts throughout the week. My plan was to do a write up this week featuring the Major Rager show at Cervantes.Major Rager is an alias for Diplo the world renowned DJ.Unfortunately he bailed on the show so that went up in smoke.I was super bummed because not only would Diplo have killed it but Robotic Pirate Monkey was going to open.
I mentioned in an earlier post that I saw them at Beauty Bar 3/26/11 and I had a great time. The crew and I rolled deep to the bar and I was in shock by the talent, the bar definitely lives up to its name. Opening for RPM was Mo:Rockin and he got the dance bumping with some well known bangers like Rusko's "Woo Boost" and Bassnectar's "Bass Head." By the time Robotic Pirate Monkey took the stage everyone was feeling loose and they unleashed on the crowd. Every body in the house was moving to the beats which they brought until the bar closed. RPM has some unusual remixes that may seem strange on paper but is bass porn for your ears. Some personal favorites of mine are "Carousel" (Blink-182), "I Cam as a Rat" (Modest Mouse), "Smile" (Lilly Allen), and "Mr. Brown" (Bob Marley). I also really like their originals "Ligers" and "All In You." You can see them April 21st at the Aggie in Fort Collins but in the mean time you can bump all their music free at www.roboticpiratemonkey.com.
I really liked throwing in a little reggae yesterday, I've always been a huge fan but recently haven't been listening to as much except for when I'm chilling or driving. Here is a Bassnectar and Datsik collaboration that has infused the laid back reggae vibe with some bass heavy beats, perfect for summer raging. This song features two heavy weights in the dub step scene and you cou can catch Datsik live this Saturday at the Ogden. Speaking of Bassnectar, he arguably had the best show of the entire Snow Ball Music Festival. For some visual stimulation enjoy this video from his mind blowing set. If you follow to youtube you can see his entire show from user DavisSoundLight!
Due to the weather closing I-70 See-I, the reggae dub group from D.C., can not make it to Three20South in Breckenridge and will be playing a free show at Quixotes (21st and Lawrence). Take advantage of this crazy Colorado weather and get a great free concert.
