+ Bonus Video;).. because who doesn't want to drown in sounds like these?..
Showing posts with label mahogany. Show all posts
Showing posts with label mahogany. Show all posts
Saturday, March 9, 2013
Wednesday, February 29, 2012
Cool Video Funtime #304 - Keystone Sonata, Arrangement VII (+Bonus Video)
+ Bonus Video:) ..because EIC (super)♥'s RxGibbs. (++ this remix that The Whendays did is pretty spectacular as well.)
Monday, September 26, 2011
EIC'S10Q'S w/Mahogany
"..take the large scale sound orchestrations of a classic Phil Spector tune, add a whole bunch of cutesy/dreamy Pop bliss to the mix and there you have it..perfection..."
Mahogany
Ultra Modern Adeptivity
Mahogany Bio:
Mahogany is an electric music-based multidisciplinary media ensemble currently working in Philadelphia, New York, and other locations. A combination of vocals, cello, massed guitars, pianos, melodicas, sequencers, synthesizers, samplers, tape, percussion, and other instruments makes for Mahogany’s sound.
Mahogany also uses film, video, animation, cinema, graphic design, photography, typography and other realization and rendering techniques for a cumulative effect known as the ‘Hypercube’ – a multidimensional expression of elegiac saudade, benign monolithic dynamism, and jubilant, sensuous organic order.
Hello, how are you?
We are doing well, thank you.
What are you currently listening to?
French and Venezuelan music from the 50s, 60s, & 70s. Obsessed with 90's gangsta rap. Also listening to Amy Winehouse since she passed away recently. And 60's-70's soul music like Diana Ross and Solomon Burke which is so awe-inspiring!
Please, tell me.. Where are the new albums you promised us?
We are and have been in the process of recording now. We hope to have them released in the next year.
What is the theme on said releases?
Frontiering ... exploration ... revisiting the old that is new and still current. Modern thinking for classical times in cities and beyond the suburban atmosphere.
Will you be touring soon for them?
It is likely that we'll tour in the next few weeks/months/years. We perform new material at each of our live shows and focus on how the audience reacts to it. It's an interesting dynamic since we play short sets 4 or 5 songs with all new material. An experiment of sorts!
You guys seem to put a lot of effort into the design aspect (both graphically and audibly) of your music, can you tell us who influenced you the most when it comes to those areas?
(this one remains a mystery)
Do you guys have any new side projects coming up?
(..as does this one too:()
What's the strangest talent you have?
Well, hmmm. interesting question. For instance, Andrew, singer, guitarist and mainstay, can pack a vehicle with musical gear like no other. Packed more tightly, safely and with the heaviest equipment ever seen. He can also write some killer tracks. Jackie, drummer extraordinaire, is a ballerina since her youth and is a natural percussionist. And Khaya, bassist, can solve a Rubik's cube.
You can only keep/listen to ONE album for the rest of your life ..which album would it be?
Probably a Smiths album, almost any one but the compilation 'Louder Than Bombs' or 'Queen is Dead' come to mind. Otherwise, 'Garlands' by Cocteau Twins.
Are you living your dream?
Yes, in many ways. I think the band would like to tour more and perhaps relocate to Europe or to the PacNW for a while but those are dreams to be chased and conquered. It seems that everyone seeks to live their dreams as they dream up something else.
Thanks Jaclyn, Khaya, & Andrew!
Mahogany is currently (please-PLEASE hopefully) working on releasing their upcoming EP as well as follow up LP, look for those within the next year (..or so?)...
Mahogany
Ultra Modern Adeptivity
Mahogany Bio:
Mahogany is an electric music-based multidisciplinary media ensemble currently working in Philadelphia, New York, and other locations. A combination of vocals, cello, massed guitars, pianos, melodicas, sequencers, synthesizers, samplers, tape, percussion, and other instruments makes for Mahogany’s sound.
Mahogany also uses film, video, animation, cinema, graphic design, photography, typography and other realization and rendering techniques for a cumulative effect known as the ‘Hypercube’ – a multidimensional expression of elegiac saudade, benign monolithic dynamism, and jubilant, sensuous organic order.
Hello, how are you?
We are doing well, thank you.
What are you currently listening to?
French and Venezuelan music from the 50s, 60s, & 70s. Obsessed with 90's gangsta rap. Also listening to Amy Winehouse since she passed away recently. And 60's-70's soul music like Diana Ross and Solomon Burke which is so awe-inspiring!
Please, tell me.. Where are the new albums you promised us?
We are and have been in the process of recording now. We hope to have them released in the next year.
What is the theme on said releases?
Frontiering ... exploration ... revisiting the old that is new and still current. Modern thinking for classical times in cities and beyond the suburban atmosphere.
Will you be touring soon for them?
It is likely that we'll tour in the next few weeks/months/years. We perform new material at each of our live shows and focus on how the audience reacts to it. It's an interesting dynamic since we play short sets 4 or 5 songs with all new material. An experiment of sorts!
You guys seem to put a lot of effort into the design aspect (both graphically and audibly) of your music, can you tell us who influenced you the most when it comes to those areas?
(this one remains a mystery)
Do you guys have any new side projects coming up?
(..as does this one too:()
What's the strangest talent you have?
Well, hmmm. interesting question. For instance, Andrew, singer, guitarist and mainstay, can pack a vehicle with musical gear like no other. Packed more tightly, safely and with the heaviest equipment ever seen. He can also write some killer tracks. Jackie, drummer extraordinaire, is a ballerina since her youth and is a natural percussionist. And Khaya, bassist, can solve a Rubik's cube.
You can only keep/listen to ONE album for the rest of your life ..which album would it be?
Probably a Smiths album, almost any one but the compilation 'Louder Than Bombs' or 'Queen is Dead' come to mind. Otherwise, 'Garlands' by Cocteau Twins.
Are you living your dream?
Yes, in many ways. I think the band would like to tour more and perhaps relocate to Europe or to the PacNW for a while but those are dreams to be chased and conquered. It seems that everyone seeks to live their dreams as they dream up something else.
Thanks Jaclyn, Khaya, & Andrew!
Mahogany is currently (please-PLEASE hopefully) working on releasing their upcoming EP as well as follow up LP, look for those within the next year (..or so?)...
REVIEW: Mahogany - Dream Of A Modern Day
About 5-10 years was when I was at the peak of my "must seek out and own all that is Shoegaze/Dream Pop related" phase I came across Mahogany. While I was in this phase, so was my brother-in-law ..sort of a funny "battle of wits" I suppose. He did, and I will whole-heartedly admit to, find/seek out Mahogany first. But the minute he showed them to me I knew I was in for a new obsession..(I just didn't know how strong of an obsession it would become).
Mahogany's debut album (the first album I heard of theirs) "Dream Of A Modern Day" is by far without a question a perfect album from beginning to end. It is quite possible the best Dream Pop album I own. Simply put it's gorgeous, touching, endearing, modern, and marvelous in a little under an hour. For a while now I've wanted to begin a new kind of music review post, in-which I talk about "perfect" albums. No flaws/no fillers, ..P-E-R-F-E-C-T-I-O-N. Think of how many albums you would put on this list, they're out there, but be REAL PICKY. (remember not one flaw!) Mahogany's "Dream.." is that too me, and hopefully to you too. I really don't know what I can say about Mahogany that hasn't been said. The band has a bit of mystery/shroud before them, they release albums when they want (::ahem::hopefully an EP as well as a new LP on the way..) they're a bit of perfectionists when it comes to their sound sculpting, their design work is just as impressive as their sound, and, yeah I've said it before, they're WAY AHEAD OF THEIR TIME. If you look at some of the "Shoegaze/Dream Pop" lists on Amazon you will probably see them on 8/10 "Greatest Gaze/Dream Pop" lists. If you've already been introduced you already know how much of a pleasure it is to know their sound. Take the large scale sound orchestrations of a classic Phil Spector tune, add a whole bunch of cutesy/dreamy Pop bliss to the mix and there you have it..perfection.
I wouldn't recommend putting a 10/10 on every "great" album you like, but if it truly means something to you deeply and you seriously can't find a single flaw in any melody/note/sound than by all means.. Buy this album, if you don''t like it (you will trust me) I'll buy your copy from you™.
Standout Tracks: ALL. I especially melt (every time) at about 4:20 into "Optimism"..oh! and "Anais No. 3" (sooooooooo pretty)
Mahogany's debut album (the first album I heard of theirs) "Dream Of A Modern Day" is by far without a question a perfect album from beginning to end. It is quite possible the best Dream Pop album I own. Simply put it's gorgeous, touching, endearing, modern, and marvelous in a little under an hour. For a while now I've wanted to begin a new kind of music review post, in-which I talk about "perfect" albums. No flaws/no fillers, ..P-E-R-F-E-C-T-I-O-N. Think of how many albums you would put on this list, they're out there, but be REAL PICKY. (remember not one flaw!) Mahogany's "Dream.." is that too me, and hopefully to you too. I really don't know what I can say about Mahogany that hasn't been said. The band has a bit of mystery/shroud before them, they release albums when they want (::ahem::hopefully an EP as well as a new LP on the way..) they're a bit of perfectionists when it comes to their sound sculpting, their design work is just as impressive as their sound, and, yeah I've said it before, they're WAY AHEAD OF THEIR TIME. If you look at some of the "Shoegaze/Dream Pop" lists on Amazon you will probably see them on 8/10 "Greatest Gaze/Dream Pop" lists. If you've already been introduced you already know how much of a pleasure it is to know their sound. Take the large scale sound orchestrations of a classic Phil Spector tune, add a whole bunch of cutesy/dreamy Pop bliss to the mix and there you have it..perfection.
I wouldn't recommend putting a 10/10 on every "great" album you like, but if it truly means something to you deeply and you seriously can't find a single flaw in any melody/note/sound than by all means.. Buy this album, if you don''t like it (you will trust me) I'll buy your copy from you™.
Standout Tracks: ALL. I especially melt (every time) at about 4:20 into "Optimism"..oh! and "Anais No. 3" (sooooooooo pretty)
Sunday, August 29, 2010
A song FREE EP sooo good, one might call it "ear crack"..
Wintercoats - Cathedral EP
Just stumbled across these guys a couple days ago ..I think I've listened to this EP about 10 times since. Think of a mellow Mahogany with pretty/(incredibly)catchy strings. For some reason a "male fronted Cranes" meets the "plucky attitude" of Amiina also comes to mind.. Please? ..GET THIS NOW?!?
Just stumbled across these guys a couple days ago ..I think I've listened to this EP about 10 times since. Think of a mellow Mahogany with pretty/(incredibly)catchy strings. For some reason a "male fronted Cranes" meets the "plucky attitude" of Amiina also comes to mind.. Please? ..GET THIS NOW?!?
Monday, June 21, 2010
Adrew Prinz (Mahogany) Interview w/Fractured..
I though this was interesting. Plus there are more mentions of the new Mahogany album(s) coming out soon.. (CAN'T wait)!
Monday, May 17, 2010
EIC'S10Q'S w/RxGibbs
"..music that gives you the sensation of floating above your own body is never a bad thing.."
RxGibbs
Liquescent Rapture Cultivation
RxGibbs Bio:
RxGibbs is a solo project of Ron Gibbs (Auburn Lull). In his words, " It kind of sounds like if Andrew Weatherall produced Auburn Lull". RxGibbs also features (here and there) members of Auburn Lull as well as the chopped up vocals of Lorraine Lelis (ex-Mahogany vocalist)." His debut album is set for release sometime in 2010.
Hello, how are you?
I'm great, thanks. Glad Spring is finally here. Michigan winters can be quite long and dreary.
What are you currently listening to?
Lately I've really been into Coppice Halifax, which is one of projects of Brian Graiger, aka Milieu. His albums Ocean Lion I and II are pure dubby ambient goodness, and he’s got tons of other great releases besides those as well. He also recently remixed a track of man that I think turned out really sweet. I've also really been digging new stuff coming out from the likes of Caribou, Casino Versus Japan, Seasonscollide, Beach Fossils, Thomas Fehlmann, Toro Y Moi, and Radio Dept. 2010 looks like it's going to be another good year for music.
Can you explain your music in 5 words or less?
Ambient Dub?
How did the name RxGibbs come up?
I was actually dubbed RxGibbs after an old band mate of mine noticed my license plate read RXG. With my first initial being R and my last name being Gibbs, he started calling me RxGibbs. It just stuck I suppose.
You got members from Auburn Lull to guest star on your next album, how did that come up?
Well, about three years ago I was lucky enough to be able to open up for them live a couple of times here in Michigan. We became good friends and I ended up joining the band right before their last album, "Begin Civil Twilight", came out. So, over the years I've acquired many recordings from everyone in the band that I ended up incorporating into the new album. A couple of the songs actually kind of started out with me trying to remix a few Auburn Lull tracks, and they just ended up kind of morphing into their own thing.
Your earlier material seemed a little more psychedelic, now it's a little more ambient, was it your mood and/or your influences that changed?
I wouldn't really say that my influences have changed. I mean, I’ve always drawn inspiration from bands like Seefeel, Slowdive, My Bloody Valentine, early-Verve, Andrew Weatherall‘s projects, The Orb and such. These were the bands that blew my mind way back in high school, which really dates me I suppose. But I never stopped loving those bands and I’d glad to see that there is somewhat of a resurgence of interest in many of those bands. I’ve got to say though too, I am definitely continuously inspired by all the new great music coming out nowadays. I think we are in pretty exciting times, creatively, for music. There’s so many bands making exciting stuff that it’s hard to keep up.
Anyway, the change in sound was mostly due to me going from an all live recording setup to more of a loop/sample based project. Sometimes I just think recording can be a huge pain in the ass. Too many cables and too many variables that can make it all go horribly wrong. Plus, I’ve got enough recorded material on my computer already to keep me busy for a while.
I would love to hear you score a movie sometime, have you ever thought about doing that?
Yes, I have and I hope I have the opportunity someday ..Actually, Auburn Lull just found out that one of our songs is going to be featured in a movie this year. I can’t give out the details just yet, but we are definitely excited about the company we are in on this soundtrack. This director is known for having pretty sweet soundtracks. Stay tuned.
Who is you all time favorite guitarist and why?
I'd have to say that Nick McCabe from Verve is probably my favorite. I don't think anybody has ever made their guitar sail and soar like his did on "Storm In Heaven" and all the early Verve singles. I still think that was some of the most beautiful music ever made. I remember buying "All In the Mind", their debut single, when it first came out and thinking they were already the best band in the world. I mean, that is still probably my favorite debut single from any band, ever. Too bad they ultimately turned to crap. Although I hear that Nick and Simon Jones, Verve bass player, have formed a new band so I am hoping for good results. I still think Richard Ashcroft is the one that ruined them in the end. Too bad.
You can only keep/listen to ONE album for the rest of your life ..which album would it be?
This is a totally impossible question, but I guess if I had to pick one I would say Kiln's latest album "Dusker" for a couple of reasons. First, that album never ceases to blow my mind. The attention to detail on that album is just amazing. And second, because I feel like I could always listen to that album and find little blurps and bleeps that I never noticed before. It’s literally chock full of wonderful, soothing sounds.
Are you living your dream?
Ha-ha, I‘m not sure, but life is good. If I'm ever am able to quit my day job and just make music, then maybe I'll be a little bit closer to that. But that is highly unlikely. Actually, if I even still have a day job by the time you read this, I’ll be happy.
Thanx Ron!
RxGibbs is currently putting the final touches on his upcoming debut LP, look for that pretty soon...(in the meantime check out these)
RxGibbs
Liquescent Rapture Cultivation
RxGibbs Bio:
RxGibbs is a solo project of Ron Gibbs (Auburn Lull). In his words, " It kind of sounds like if Andrew Weatherall produced Auburn Lull". RxGibbs also features (here and there) members of Auburn Lull as well as the chopped up vocals of Lorraine Lelis (ex-Mahogany vocalist)." His debut album is set for release sometime in 2010.
Hello, how are you?
I'm great, thanks. Glad Spring is finally here. Michigan winters can be quite long and dreary.
What are you currently listening to?
Lately I've really been into Coppice Halifax, which is one of projects of Brian Graiger, aka Milieu. His albums Ocean Lion I and II are pure dubby ambient goodness, and he’s got tons of other great releases besides those as well. He also recently remixed a track of man that I think turned out really sweet. I've also really been digging new stuff coming out from the likes of Caribou, Casino Versus Japan, Seasonscollide, Beach Fossils, Thomas Fehlmann, Toro Y Moi, and Radio Dept. 2010 looks like it's going to be another good year for music.
Can you explain your music in 5 words or less?
Ambient Dub?
How did the name RxGibbs come up?
I was actually dubbed RxGibbs after an old band mate of mine noticed my license plate read RXG. With my first initial being R and my last name being Gibbs, he started calling me RxGibbs. It just stuck I suppose.
You got members from Auburn Lull to guest star on your next album, how did that come up?
Well, about three years ago I was lucky enough to be able to open up for them live a couple of times here in Michigan. We became good friends and I ended up joining the band right before their last album, "Begin Civil Twilight", came out. So, over the years I've acquired many recordings from everyone in the band that I ended up incorporating into the new album. A couple of the songs actually kind of started out with me trying to remix a few Auburn Lull tracks, and they just ended up kind of morphing into their own thing.
Your earlier material seemed a little more psychedelic, now it's a little more ambient, was it your mood and/or your influences that changed?
I wouldn't really say that my influences have changed. I mean, I’ve always drawn inspiration from bands like Seefeel, Slowdive, My Bloody Valentine, early-Verve, Andrew Weatherall‘s projects, The Orb and such. These were the bands that blew my mind way back in high school, which really dates me I suppose. But I never stopped loving those bands and I’d glad to see that there is somewhat of a resurgence of interest in many of those bands. I’ve got to say though too, I am definitely continuously inspired by all the new great music coming out nowadays. I think we are in pretty exciting times, creatively, for music. There’s so many bands making exciting stuff that it’s hard to keep up.
Anyway, the change in sound was mostly due to me going from an all live recording setup to more of a loop/sample based project. Sometimes I just think recording can be a huge pain in the ass. Too many cables and too many variables that can make it all go horribly wrong. Plus, I’ve got enough recorded material on my computer already to keep me busy for a while.
I would love to hear you score a movie sometime, have you ever thought about doing that?
Yes, I have and I hope I have the opportunity someday ..Actually, Auburn Lull just found out that one of our songs is going to be featured in a movie this year. I can’t give out the details just yet, but we are definitely excited about the company we are in on this soundtrack. This director is known for having pretty sweet soundtracks. Stay tuned.
Who is you all time favorite guitarist and why?
I'd have to say that Nick McCabe from Verve is probably my favorite. I don't think anybody has ever made their guitar sail and soar like his did on "Storm In Heaven" and all the early Verve singles. I still think that was some of the most beautiful music ever made. I remember buying "All In the Mind", their debut single, when it first came out and thinking they were already the best band in the world. I mean, that is still probably my favorite debut single from any band, ever. Too bad they ultimately turned to crap. Although I hear that Nick and Simon Jones, Verve bass player, have formed a new band so I am hoping for good results. I still think Richard Ashcroft is the one that ruined them in the end. Too bad.
You can only keep/listen to ONE album for the rest of your life ..which album would it be?
This is a totally impossible question, but I guess if I had to pick one I would say Kiln's latest album "Dusker" for a couple of reasons. First, that album never ceases to blow my mind. The attention to detail on that album is just amazing. And second, because I feel like I could always listen to that album and find little blurps and bleeps that I never noticed before. It’s literally chock full of wonderful, soothing sounds.
Are you living your dream?
Ha-ha, I‘m not sure, but life is good. If I'm ever am able to quit my day job and just make music, then maybe I'll be a little bit closer to that. But that is highly unlikely. Actually, if I even still have a day job by the time you read this, I’ll be happy.
Thanx Ron!
RxGibbs is currently putting the final touches on his upcoming debut LP, look for that pretty soon...(in the meantime check out these)
Thursday, April 29, 2010
REVIEW: Sweet Trip - Velocity Design Comfort
Last year a slightly unknown band (a band I've never really heard anyone talk about anyways) released one of my favorite albums. The band is Sweet Trip. The album is "You Will Never Know Why", which was an interesting fusion of Bossa Nova style rhythms/sounds combined with Dream Pop, the end result being "crack addictive music".. Anywho, since then, I've made it point to try and collect most if not all of this band's impressive back catalogue. One of those release would be "Velocity Design Comfort", which still has the element of Dream Pop that I love so much, but instead of a stronger focus on "light hearted/breezy" atmospheres the direction shifts more towards sporadic "noise" and glitchy electronics. Think Jamie Lidell's first album meshed with sounds you could hear on a Broadcast album.
White noise, distorted twinkles, blurps, bleeps, scratches, catchy guitar riffs, easy-breezy (& beautiful) vocals, and a few other sounds that are nigh indescribable make this album a true standout amongst the many Dream Pop acts that currently over populate my Ipod. The thing I actually like the most with this release is Roberto Burgos' playful mix of electronics/distortions. Some of the electronics could have easily been placed on an Aphex Twin album without question, but that didn't stop Mr. Burgos from placing them on a "Dream Pop" album, which honestly just puts the biggest smile on my face. On top of the super sacchariferous music there is an even sweeter sound to be discovered which is Valerie Reyes' cavity inducing vocals. Ms. Reyes sings (and hums) her little heart out on nearly every track. Sometimes I am reminded of Trish Keenan (Broadcast), other times Allysa Masais (Mahogany). Actually, much like the band Mahogany, this band shares the same ideas/concepts, which is this; amazing music that should be waaaaay bigger than what it currently is and a "style" that is unique to said band only.. And truly, if any of the bands mentioned aboves get your mouth salivating with curiosity you need to hear this band right now. Please, if you like some of my recommendations take this one seriously, these guys will melt your heart away/get your blood moving & overall just put you in a good mood.
Sweet Trip should be Warp Records first official Dream Pop band, it just makes sense. Recommended for fans of Dream Pop most definitely. Recommended also for fans of twitchy electronics/IDM intertwined with upbeat pop music. NM, Recommended for fans of good music only, I love this s^!#. HIGHLY RecommENDed.
Standout Tracks: Gawd, they're all so good.. Velocity, Fruitcake And Cookies, Sept, International, Dedicated To All The Dancers Of The World A Round Form Of Fantasy
White noise, distorted twinkles, blurps, bleeps, scratches, catchy guitar riffs, easy-breezy (& beautiful) vocals, and a few other sounds that are nigh indescribable make this album a true standout amongst the many Dream Pop acts that currently over populate my Ipod. The thing I actually like the most with this release is Roberto Burgos' playful mix of electronics/distortions. Some of the electronics could have easily been placed on an Aphex Twin album without question, but that didn't stop Mr. Burgos from placing them on a "Dream Pop" album, which honestly just puts the biggest smile on my face. On top of the super sacchariferous music there is an even sweeter sound to be discovered which is Valerie Reyes' cavity inducing vocals. Ms. Reyes sings (and hums) her little heart out on nearly every track. Sometimes I am reminded of Trish Keenan (Broadcast), other times Allysa Masais (Mahogany). Actually, much like the band Mahogany, this band shares the same ideas/concepts, which is this; amazing music that should be waaaaay bigger than what it currently is and a "style" that is unique to said band only.. And truly, if any of the bands mentioned aboves get your mouth salivating with curiosity you need to hear this band right now. Please, if you like some of my recommendations take this one seriously, these guys will melt your heart away/get your blood moving & overall just put you in a good mood.
Sweet Trip should be Warp Records first official Dream Pop band, it just makes sense. Recommended for fans of Dream Pop most definitely. Recommended also for fans of twitchy electronics/IDM intertwined with upbeat pop music. NM, Recommended for fans of good music only, I love this s^!#. HIGHLY RecommENDed.
Standout Tracks: Gawd, they're all so good.. Velocity, Fruitcake And Cookies, Sept, International, Dedicated To All The Dancers Of The World A Round Form Of Fantasy
Monday, April 5, 2010
(Finally) NEW Mahogany...
Mahogany have confirmed via FB that they will have not one, but two new releases this year!"Electric Prisms EP" is due Spring 2010 & "Frontiering" is due Fall 2010.
If you head over the band's FB page you can stream some live video clips featuring some new tracks.
So excited!
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