New Nero Music Video

This isn't much of a blog these days but this music video oozes class straight from 1984 that will make up for it.

Colossal Collaboration

Diplo and Datsik tag team this beat so bruttally your ear drums are going to be tapping out from the one minute point on. The two combine their styles to mind wash listeners into dance zombies who can't get enough of this song. Tell me are we having fun?

Widespread Like You've Never Heard

Widespread Panic has long been considered one of the traditional jam bands but they are breaking that mold in a big way. Following the electronic music trend of releasing free EPs or Albums Widespread Panic has released a free EP of remixes by some of the hottest names in the game. See for yourself at: http://www.widespreadpanic.com/dsdremixes.php.

Mo Money Mo Problems

Sorry for the delay since my last post. My new job has kept me real busy but there will be a new post up soon. Subjects to look forward to are summer music festivals, Denver Cruisers, and general party and bullshit.

Give Me Some Lipp

The weather has been gloomy here in Denver the last few days but no need to feel down, the weekend is right around the corner or already here for those of you who feel ambitious. Tonight Eliot Lipp is playing Cervantes. Eliot is one of the many electronic acts participating in STS9's 1320 Records but he was discovered by Prefuse 73 and signed to Eastern Developments label before joining Hefty Records. What makes him unique is the fact that he is considered more of an indie electronic acts with a signature sound combining 90's hip-hop and house, 70's funk fusion, and classic electro all over some dirty bass-lines. He also often plays with Pnuma Trio, also of 1320 Records, where they do a mixed band/DJ set which turns out really cool. This should be a good show but if you miss it no need to fret, the Brooklyn based artist visits Colorado pretty frequently.

Tomorrow night Wolfgang Gartner will be at The Ogden. He is an electro house artist that has been making some noise, no pun intended, in the industry by performing at both Coachella and Electric Daisy Carnival in 2010 then working with Will.I.Am on the track "Forever," this year. His sound definitely reminds me of Justice and The Ogden will surely be bumping tomorrow night.

I would like to post either tomorrow or this weekend on Portugal The Man, playing The Bluebird Friday and Saturday, as well as DJ Magazine's #1 DJ of 2007, 2008, 2009, & 2010, Armin van Buuren, playing Beta on Sunday but we'll see what shapes up in the next few days. Until next time, stay so fresh and so clean friends.

Monday Monday Monday

Sorry for the delay in getting a new post up, last week was a busy one for me. Interview Tuesday, double header with The Puds Thursday, and the Stranahan's Whiskey Distillery tour Friday. Whenever I tend to get a little stressed out I need some crunchy jams to mellow me out. Here is a playlist of some of my favorite bands and their "marquee" songs or just ones that I happen to enjoy so I hope you do as well.

I was really bummed when I heard that The Gothic was having A-Trak come play on a Monday night. A-Trak is arguably the best turntable DJ in the world and with his colloborative hits from Duck Sauce, "Anyway," and "Barbara Streisand," he has been introduced to a much larger audience base. For him to play such a small venue will be a real treat for those attending.

Fringe, Mustaches, Suits, & Storm Troopers. Just What Your Tuesday Needs.

My work dress code is business casual. This means that there is rarely the need to dress up. Knowing that when you look good you feel good and that women go crazy for a sharp dressed man I instituted "Tie Tuesday" in the office. I always feel like I can make moves on Tuesday and today I'll certainly be bringing the heat. One of my favorite songs to get my day going off to a great start is "Seven Turns" by The Allman Brothers Band. Spoiler alert: if you don't like desert scenery and lip synching skip the video.

This Thursday Absinthe House, formerly known as The Foundry, will be celebrating Cinco de Mayo with Lazerdisk Party Sex. I originally discovered this Burlington, VT duo by randomly seeing them for my first show of Snow Ball Music Festival. I became impatient while waiting for some girls in the bathroom and meandered to the Heat Hut alone. From the outside I could see boas, wigs, and one pieces. I naturally recognized this being my friends from Keystone and immediately joined the party. I didn't stay long but I did see enough to tell you that these guys will be raging Thursday and for only $5 you'll literally be getting some bang for your buck.

Dreamweaver

Happy Monday, hope this helps you get through the day. New post soon to come.

I Am Somebody

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 Lineup

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 the lineup here and it looks like this year is my best shot for making it back since 2008.

If I was a pharaoh this would be my pyramid.

To All My Umphreaks

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 21^st 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

20. Bonafide Lovin’ – Chromeo cover

Enjoy!

Get Static

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.

Say My Name

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.

Tasty Tunes This Tuesday

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?

Download both of their albums for free at www.prettylightsmusic.com

Renaissance Man

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.

Colorado, Partying Harder Than You Since 1876

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.

The Unquestionable Supremacy of STS9

Sound Tribe Sector 9 is officially back. Taking

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.

Weekend Update

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.

Spring Fever

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.

Gay Ninjas: Jean Shorts, No Helments, Back Tats.

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.

Harder, Better, Faster, Stronger

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.

Robotic Pirate Monkey

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.

Get the Whomp Out of Here

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!

Free See-I Show

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.

And Now For Your Chicago Bulls...

Can't imagine a better intro, I can't wait for August 13th at the rocks. Like a pro bring it back that's what's up.

Civilization

The new Justice single you may recognize from the Adidas commercial, look for their album to drop this summer.

Back In The Saddle Again

RRRRRAAAAAAARRRRRRRR, I’m back from hibernation. The days were short and the nights long this winter providing the time to capitalize on gumdrops, lasers, and ragers. I won’t bore you on all the lame things that happened in between my last post and now like Chromeo and A-Trak for Halloween, Savoy’s debut of their awesome new lasers at The Ogden, STS9’s mind blowing NYE light show and new songs, the Winter X Games with Big Boi, Umphrey’s McGee, Ghostland Observatory, Snow Ball Music Festival, or String Cheese Incident’s Winter Carnival, but like I said I won’t bore you with that.

Speaking of SCI, Michael Travis and Jason Hann’s side project EOTO is playing Saturday at The Ogden. They create a unique experience with their live, improvised, dub-jam style that always brings an energy only they produce. I’ve seen them at Rothbury, Three20South, and Wakarusa and at each incident they’ve produced banger jams that are one of a kind. If you go expect to get sweaty because the crowd will be getting hot and heavy just like the bass.

Skrillex is playing a sold out show tomorrow at Beta in Denver. He has been a well known producer who is now is making a name for himself. He has acquired quite the following but for whatever reason I can’t jump on board with his tunes.

Robotic Pirate Monkey is a DJ group from Boulder that has really been gaining momentum. They opened Snow Ball Music Festival with the first show of the Groove tent and are playing in Eagle County again at the Samana Lounge in Vail tonight. I saw them last Saturday at Beauty Bar and they killed it, there will be more to come on here about them shortly. It’s good to be back, keep your peepers out for my next post and stay fresh kids.

William Perry - "The Refrigerator Man"

Should have posted this right after that Bears beating of those fudge Packers. Enjoy.

If Your Drugs Aren't Designer, I Don't Want Them

Many of you may remember how this blog all started with the Denver Cruisers. This is the last week of the event so many know, love, and associate their Wednesday with. The theme of this week is ski-in/ski-out. I hope to see you all there donning your neon, xxxl tall tees, and one piece suits.

Tomorrow is the show that you need to know about. The Bluebird will be hosting Designer Drugs the duo from New York made up of Michael Vincent Patrick and Theodore Paul Nelson. If asked to describe their music I would have to call it of the pop banger genre that takes vocals generally from a pop song and throws them over techno/house beats. Try working out to this music, it will make you run faster and jump higher even if you leave your PF Flyers at home. Tickets are about $22 so not too bad for a dj group known around the world. You can download their last 4 mix tapes for free off their myspace page which I would highly suggest doing. I have only seen them once and it was to open for Savoy so I’m sure they were holding back but they had the club bumping. Can’t say for certain I’ll make it to the show after my softball game but hopefully will be there to celebrate a victory.

Quick Heads Up

Rusko is playing tonight at the Ogden. This is probably your last chance to see him before he becomes a household name. He has been destroying the dub scene with Caspa, Benga, and others for years but now mainstream acts are looking for his beats. Get to it before the crowd does.

Oktober in September

The nights have been getting cooler, the leaves are changing colors, and fall is officially here. That means the start of all kinds of fun; football, October baseball, pumpkin patches, corn mazes, and German heritage festivals better known as OKTOBERFEST! Oktoberfest oddly enough always occurs in September, which is fine by me because it is just a great excuse to indulge in beer and bratwursts, two of my favorite things. This weekend both Breckenridge and Vail will be hosting their Oktoberfests. I have not been to Vail’s but last year Breckenridge’s really surprised me. Thinking that the biggest town event was Ullr Fest I was sorely mistaken. Still being a new local this time of the year Andrew Fox and myself rode bikes down to main street to find thousands of people sampling regional and German beers alike. We purchased steins for $20, discounted because they ran out of 2009 mugs and only had 2008, which made no difference to us, that included two fill-ups. After enjoying some brews we posted up on the curb to enjoy some beer-brats and people watching. After devouring our food we filled up once more and headed to the stage to watch some German wood cutting dancing. What a combo, people swinging around with men wielding axes hacking to the beat. After enjoying the show we decided we had a successful afternoon at Oktoberfest and headed home. Riding bikes down hill sober is much easier than riding them uphill mildly inebriated with a ceramic liter mug in hand. This weekend Denver will be having their own two-day Oktoberfest on Larimer Street, which should be a great time, unfortunately I’m writing this post at my cubicle in Broomfield today and work tomorrow as well.

To cap off a great day in Breckenridge I would suggest going to Three20South tonight to check out the hometown boys who go by the name Yamn. They’ve been gaining some nation wide recognition by opening up for the likes of Tea Leaf Green and Cornmeal. Many would say they follow the typical jam band formula but those are just critics who are looking for something negative to say. These guys are just musicians making music that they like and I like so who cares.

Tuesday was the release of Chromeo’s new album Business Casual. With such excitement surrounding their junior album I couldn’t help myself but go ahead and book a flight to Chicago for Freaky Deaky, their Halloween show at the Congress Theater with A-Trak. This is going to be an awesome show that I suggest to all that are in the greater Chicago area. I’m going to leave you to think about a concept that Chromeo actually introduced to me. It is call the “80/50” concept. Back in the 1980’s all of the popular music simulated the 1950’s pop craze with bands such as Huey Lewis and the News, Cindy Lauper, and Wham. Today looking around you’ll see kids wearing neon colors, mid-calves socks, and jamming to Chromeo who are replicating those 80’s electronic pop/funk sounds. Take a look around and you’ll be amazed by all of the similarities and the truth’s that the “80/50” concept holds. Just a little food for thought, have a fun and safe weekend.

P.S. Gin bucket at the penthouse tonight for Rob Leo’s last weekend in Denver.

Never Boring

Busy, busy, busy. That is what I’ve been. Last Wednesday basically was the kick off to my imaginary weekend seeing how I had to work throughout most of it. Wednesday night hosts the weekly Denver Cruisers bike ride. This previous week’s theme was zombies, mmmmmm brains. Every Thursday night the one and only Pud’s softball team takes the field under the lights with yours truly at second base. That brings us up to the main event, Friday and Saturday, of Sound Tribe Sector 9 at Red Rocks.

When you get to a point where you’ve seen a group ten times you’d think you’ve generally seen everything they have to offer but that is not the case with STS9. That is what convinced me to make it to my eleventh and twelfth shows by the boys from ATL Georgia. Known for using samples during songs and especially PA sets they are not known to do covers. On Saturday night they covered Justice’s “One Minute to Midnight,” which rocked the red walls live for the first time since the French duo’s Monolith Festival appearance in 2008.

Both nights were the pure madness that only a sold out Red Rocks Amphitheater show can deliver. On the latest leg of their tour you'll notice they've consistently been mixing in the new and the old with songs dating back toInterplanetary Escape Vehicle and live debut off Ad Explorata, “Oil & Water.” The music is only part of the experience. Each night involved great groups of kids, weather, and radness. The whole group of friends that came from all over the country for this reunion mobbed close to 40 deep of funky-footed party hungry beasts. Through the two nights we started in row 24 and progressively moved forward capping it with a crazy Saturday night on row 6 of arguably the greatest stage on earth

This four-night run really was wearing me thin but knowing a Hummer limo was taking me home I just muscled it out to enjoy the great ride home to come. Finally recuperating and the week is in full swing and a few things to look forward to are Chromeo's new album dropping today and It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia premier Thursday. More to come.

You Can Chase Right Up and Touch The Sky

Whaddup, what is up? Hello again old friends. I can honestly say I’ve missed you and its good to say hi. The last week has been busy, back to whatever resembles a real life. Unfortunately that working mans life did not allow me to partake in any of the fun this weekend. I can’t stress how sad it is sitting in a cubicle on Saturday watching ESPN GameCast on opening weekend of college football. Especially when the Buffaloes are stomping all over for that excuse of a rivalry. I’m sorry a 60-20-2 record says it all. I don’t need to say anything you don’t already know though.

On a musical side of things this weekend hosted two street party festivals, those being the North Coast Music Festival in Chicago and the Electric Avenue Music Festival in Denver. Notable acts are Umphrey’s McGee, Disco Biscuits, Pretty Lights, Moby, Benny Benassi, Chemical Brothers, Lupe Fiasco, Nas & Damian Marley at the North Coast. At the Electric Avenue’s acts were Kyle Hollingsworth Band, Great American Taxi, Greensky Bluegrass, Punuma Trio, Eliot Lipp, Juno What?!, Break Science, Euforquestra, Mountain Standard Time, and Karl Deson’s Tiny Universe, along with many others. Both of these are farewells to those easy times of summer that are fading way with every moment.

This summer I learned a lot and had a great time. The list would go on for pages of the accomplishments, stories, and adventures I’ve had but I’m not here to brag. I wish what I learned this summer was some brilliant idea to make me millions but it isn’t. It is something much simpler and will make you richer in life than one can imagine. It was that when we were kids that we had it best. That’s probably an obvious statement to most. But when is the last time you rode your bike to a friend’s house? How often do you just sit out in the summer breeze not worrying about what is to come tomorrow? The days of carefree laughter and fun have been easily forgotten with the every day grind. Take your time, slow down, and live life at every moment. When you let the little things bog you down you loose sight of what is important. Friends, family, and wealthy life.

I will be coming back at you in a couple days because I’ve got one of my most looked forward to weekend of the year coming up as well as other cultural and spiritual trinkets. Peace.

Up and Coming Electro

Whomp-heads, this Saturday at Cervante's in Denver there will be some fat electro beats. Fresh2Death, Boulder's very own duo, will be opening up for Lazer Sword. I've never seen Fresh2Death live but here's a video to give you a taste. I've only seen Lazer Sword once opening up for STS9 before their PA Set and they definitely got the crowd started. Sorry for the wait, I finally got a real 9-5 job so that has taken up my time this week. I'll get at you though early next week hopefully with a good story or something that you'll be interested in during the coming week. Keep it sleazy.

The Little Big Man

I remember the days when MTV actually stood for music television. Back when they used to play music videos, I don't know if they do that anymore. It seems like the majority of their programing these days are roided up frat boys competing in pointless competitions to prove who is the most pathetic, macho bro making no attempt for a real career or that of even a real acting career. Real World and Road Rules were the beginning to this demise. Sure they were great ten years ago but seeing the same stale product year after year is played out.

I have recently discovered a refreshing answer to this sub par MTV programing. His name is RJ Berger and the he is the main character in The Hard Times of RJ Berger. This show is incredibly funny and relatable. Who hasn't had a crush on the hottest girl in school, though about loosing their virginity daily, or feel like their parents are the weirdest people on earth? If your behind, all of the episodes are available on MTV's website for free. I highly suggest watching this as it is every Monday at 10/9c.

I'm No "Momma's Boy"

What you need to know:

Chromeooooo Ooooo oh! Chromeo is playing tonight at the Ogden and it is a sold out show. If you don’t know Chromeo they’re the electro/pop/rock duo of Dave1 and P-Thug straight from Montreal. They’ve got their own funky style, which brings the beat combined with witty lyrics making them party starters. They will definitely get the dance floor bumping tonight.

All my Chicago friends, STS9 is coming to the windy city. If you were to ever take my advice please go. Tonight at the House of Blues the boys will be getting down. My guess is a show with some deep jams and ambient lighting. The Aragon on Saturday will be a show of heavy beats and younger faces. Both epic nights lead up lead up to a special evening of STS9 “Axe the Cables.” This is an acoustic show like those of “unplugged,” finishing their weekend at the Old Town School of Folk Music.

Yarmony Grass is a festival type event for the today through Sunday, located on the Upper Colorado River. This has an incredible lineup of Bluegrass, Rock, and Electronic artists who are all friends. Speaking of friends I remember how right around now was the time myself and my friends would be getting back to school and celebrating best we knew how. This was always highlighted by the back to school free concert on Ferrand Field. They have had great musicians the last few years including Blackalicious, Tea Leaf Green, Girl Talk, Savoy, and Pretty Lights. This year the duo of Chiddy Bang are bringing their act to CU. It is party music and will provide obvious wide-eyed freshman a brutal hello to college.

Everyone, enjoy the weekend, make the most of it, get out there and just do it like MJ.

MHMF Recap

What is up fans? Since you last heard from me I’ve just been on my grind working to get that paper aka a job. Last weekend I had a great time at Mile High Music Festival. It was hot as usual but that Colorado breeze supplied ample relief and all the great music took our minds off of it.

Saturday’s highlights for myself would have to have been ALO, Nas & Damian Marley, then Steve Miller Band. ALO opened with “Maria,” a song I really enjoy and one to get people on their feet. I said in my last blog if I could hear one song it would be “Shapeshifter,” and sure enough they gave me the ecstasy I was looking for. Nas & Damian Marley was cool because although they collaborated most of the show there were points where it went solo such Nas with one of his most recent hits “Hip Hop is Dead.” It was this show where I found my calling. Through the whole set they had a guy on stage just waving a Rastafarian flag. Maybe they’re looking for a white, redheaded, skinny kid such as myself to join them on tour? Steve Miller Band really surprised me because not only did they play their classics but also new material. Bingo is their new album that came out this June. They definitely provided the same rock you’d expect from their classics just with some new life and lessons injected to their new material. Jack Johnson came to close out SMB’s set with a great version of “The Joker.” I was surprised by Jack Johnson’s set but realistically I could have just put on a mix of his greatest hits. The thing I did like about his show was his stage banter providing some entertaining stories behind the songs.

Keller Williams deserves a shout out because he is just always up there having a great time and it feeds directly into the crowd. He also threw in some of his classic freestyle rhymes after going over on his allotted time. I only saw maybe three songs by Cypress Hill but that included “Insane in the Brain,” “Hits From the Bong,” and “Tequila Sunrise;” a classic, a spectacle (they pulled out a six foot bong and blazed on stage, hilarious), and one of their more recent songs that pays homage to The Eagles. I went in between Slightly Stoopid and Phoenix from 6:45 to 8:15. I do admit Phoenix is a guilty hipster pleasure of mine but when the sun is out shinning Slightly Stoopid just seems like the right place to be and more in line with my general taste in music.

The biggest surprise on Sunday for me was an artist I have never heard of named Trevor Hall. I wish I could tell you all about him but I honestly don’t know much except for the fact that he had great stage presence and is a rock’n’roll act although some may try to describe him as a singer/song writer. Drive-By-Truckers opened the day with a great set playing a song I’ve been dying to hear live since 2005, “Let There Be Rock.” One of my favorite shows of the day was a duo I’ve seen at least five times before this show, Boombox. Being early in the day Zion was crisp and clear and didn’t wander too much on jams. It was a straight up dance party at 3pm. Jimmy Cliff was cool because he showed everyone a 62-year-old man is still a fun guy to party with, if not himself, his yellow jump suit sure proved it. My Morning Jacket played a great show but I must say I was hoping to hear “One Big Holiday,” and was sorely disappointed that they didn’t play it. I do understand that this is their most mainstream song and they probably get tired of playing it but when your playing a festival it is a different circumstance than solo shows where everyone is there to just3 see you. Weezer is near and dear to my heart and takes me back to the day. They sure did that for the three songs of theirs I managed to catch. “Hash Pipe,” was the first song I heard and brings me back to riding around with my Dad in his corvette driving way too fast pumping this power chord monster. “Say it Ain’t So,” and “Undone (The Sweater Song),” were classics that are as fun today as they were 16 years ago when the Blue Album was released and I was hoping to hear them as you surely know from my last post. I tore myself away from Weezer to catch the entire Bassnectar show and being twenty feet from the stage my ears were ringing until Tuesday. It was a straight whomp fest but I must admit the crowd at that show was alarmingly young. It seems that kids these days just love that bass bumping, hip thrusting, deafening music. He had awesome lights along the roof of the tent and beach balls aplenty giving much more ambiance than the other stages. Lorin really enjoyed himself letting his long hair flow with the breeze commenting how much he looked forward to this show and his return to Colorado. To end the festival was Dave Matthews Band. They were good but what can I say about them, they’ve been playing for 20 years and still have fun doing it but each show is pretty much the same as the last. Tim Reynolds sat in on the entire set but didn’t make himself stand out which was disappointing. One part I did enjoy was when Dave threw in a jam where he was singing “You’re a sexy motherfucker shaking that ass, shaking that ass.” He was grooving and everyone was getting down to this little romp. I also found this really funny because he seems like such a PG family show these days so it was good to see him breaking the mold.

I’m going to end on that note to keep this bearable to read but check out the post tomorrow to tell you what you need to know for this weekend. Before I peace out I’d like to say thank you to Brent Fabschutz and the Ariano family for making this weekend possible and a blast start to finish.

The Highest Mainstream Festival in the Country

Tomorrow is the first day of the third annual Mile High Music Festival. This is a two-day event that is held at the Dick’s Sporting Good Park. Being nine miles northeast of Denver you could say it’s our backyard making it a great opportunity to get a plethora of music. I personally attended the first MHMF in 2008 and had a great time. I didn’t think the venue was spectacular but it’s not bad either. The line-up was well rounded with moe., Lupe Fiasco, Steve Winwood, Michael Franti & Spearehead, Tom Petty, and Dave Matthews Band. They definitely try to bring in the masses with mainstream acts and this year is no different.

On Saturday I will be focusing on the Kyocera main stage and cougar stage, which is convenient because they’re right next to each other. Doubtful I make it for the opening act but The Motet at noon is definitely kicking the festival off on the right foot. Realistically my first show will be Donavon Frankenreiter one of Jack Johnson’s surf buddies turned musician. Definitely a good way to get the afternoon’s carefree summer vibe going. After that I will see a band that I have enjoyed for many years and painfully missed at Wakarusa, Animal Liberation Orchestra (ALO). If they play “Shapeshifter,” I will be extremely pleased. I’ve got to then mix it up and get a little hip-hop in my life from some titans of the game, Nas and Damien “Jr. Gong” Marley at the main stage. Back to the cougar stage then for Keller Williams who I remember seeing for the first time when I was 14 opening for Béla Fleck and the Flecktones during their Acoustic Planet Tour and being blown away. This guy is literally is a one-man band and does it all. I could go on about him but this is about the festival. A true summer classic going back to my under aged days at Ravinia is the Steve Miller Band. With a greatest hits playlist for their concert one can always walk away happy. A difficult decision then has to be made whether to go to Slightly Stoopid or Phoenix. Personally I’ve seen Stoopid enough where I can afford to miss their show. With Phoenix being a trendy new mainstream band will it be filled with losers? Most likely. Will there still be a lot of talent? Absolutely. To end the night on some feel good music will be Jack Johnson. I am going to call out the potential Dave sit in or visa versa with Jack.

Sunday I’m looking forward to seeing a band I first discovered at Lollapalooza 2005 playing the set break for Widespread Panic. Drive-By-Truckers is a southern rock band making their own modern fist pumping blues driven rock that will take you back to the days of the real Lynyrd Skynyrd. From there I have to see my buddies Boombox who don’t fit an afternoon spot but hey I like them so I’m going anyways. From there is my most anticipated show of the weekend, My Morning Jacket. I am ready to feel that early evening mountain breeze and Jim James sweet vocals just flowing through the air. This band can fill Madison Square Garden so you know the crowd is going to be large and rocking. Atmosphere is playing at the same time and will be a nice alternative for those looking for something different. The next time slot is my biggest disappointment of the schedule. Having to choose between Bassnectar, Railraod Earth, and Weezer. Weezer was my favorite band in eighth grade so I would love nothing more to hear some “Undone (The Sweater Song),” or “Say It Ain’t So.” Railroad Earth is hands down my favorite bluegrass band with great lyrics and drums, they can’t be beat. But in order to get my whommmmp dosage I will be raging at Bassnectar. The end of the festival culminates with Dave Matthews Band. A repeat of 2008 but hey he killed it then with a cover of “Sledgehammer,” and their last studio album, Big Whiskey & The Groogrux King was a hit with critics and fans a like. He’s not my favorite but at one point and time in my life I probably said he was so I’ll go and remember those days and just soak in the final moments of what hopes to be a great festival.

For those of you in the San Francisco area this weekend hit up Outside Lands Festival. There are many of the same acts as MHMF just on opposite days and a whole lot of even better artists. Phish is also playing the beloved Alpine Valley and I’m sure that will be a good time as well. Have a good weekend and keep an eye out for me if you're at Mile High Music Festival because you know where I’ll be.

School of Rock

Sorry for the long wait friends. I’d like to give you some great excuse but it has just been my priorities this week has been looking for a job. My dream job would be getting paid to just follow around bands and party with them. Unfortunately that is not the case so I just have to live vicariously through friends fortunate enough to attend shows I cannot and youtube. Thank god for youtube.

Phish played a two-night mini-festival on Monday and Tuesday in the town of Telluride. This is the first time they have taken over the small town since 1991. Telluride holds special significance because it is the first time the band played outside of the east coast during their 1988 tour. The band definitely paid homage to their beginnings by playing “Camel Walk,” “Possum,” and “David Bowie,” all songs played in ’88. Possum and David Bowie show up regularly throughout Phish tours and are both crowd favorites. They played one of the best sets I can imagine on Monday including some new classics such as “Ocelot” and “Backwards Down the Number Line” off their 2009 album Joy.

This event really put Phish in perspective for me. Although I have been listening to Phish for 10 years I really don’t appreciate the days when they were up and coming, young, and fresh. Today they are sounding tighter than ever and have just built on what they’ve learned through the ups and the downs. When I spoke about String Cheese Incident a few posts ago I mentioned they didn’t have as many songs in their repertoire as Phish. One song they do share in common is “Quinn the Eskimo.” Cheese closed their Saturday night set at Red Rocks with this as their encore and Phish opened their encore on Monday with this cover. The thing that amazes me is that this is the first time Phish has played this song since 10/02/99 in Minneapolis. There were 209 shows in between. Phish is an institution of music. Although they have the songs that are on the regular rotation they have the ability to go over 200 shows without playing the same song. I hope they keep touring for another 20 years and so should you.

Next post is coming up tomorrow in order to highlight Mile High Music Festival. Stay phunky until then.