Song of the Week, 2/03: From Indian Lakes- "Breaking My Bones"

What is it?: Hailing from Yosemite Valley, California, From Indian Lakes offers an eclectic sound that is hard to define within the realm of alternative rock.  They have the indie rock instrumentals down pat, with a center around dynamic guitars and very detailed percussion.  When delving into their 2012 release Able Bodies, production was on point, delivering an extremely full sound without losing any of the complexities of each instrument.  However, it's the vocals of Joey Vannucchi that makes it essentially impossible to put this band into a single sub-genre. It is this diversity within an extremely cohesive and fluid album that makes From Indian Lakes so impressive.  Just looking at "Breaking My Bones," Vannucchi takes a high-pitched, soft verse and immediately transitions into a cutting spoken-word chorus, which sets the tone of the rest of the punchy verses which is somewhat of a hybrid of the two.  Even with that much variety and growth in less than a 4 minute song, nothing seems rushed or chaotic, which is an accomplishment within itself.  Add in the fact the entire song appeals to any one who like indie rock in general despite the alternation of harsh and delicate vocals, this song, and album in general, is not to be ignored.

Why is it Song of the Week?: In late January, these guys announced a full headlining US tour, which everyone should be totally stoked about.  If seeing a headlining From Indian Lakes set isn't enough (it really should be, c'mon now), The American Scene is opening, which is sick.  As far as the venues go for the shows in the tri-state area, they're on the smaller side so you get to watch an intimate show with two bands that absolutely kill it live.  Need I say more?

You can find tickets for the tour here!



Click the link below to hear "Breaking My Bones" by From Indian Lakes off of their 2012 release Able Bodies.

Song of the Week, 1/27: Circa Survive- " Stare Like You'll Stay"

What is it?: In November 2010, Circa Survive released the Appendage EP, featuring b-sides from Blue Sky Noise and the demo version of "Sleep Underground."  As with anything associated with Blue Sky Noise, this EP holds some of Circa Survive's best work.  That statement might be misleading because their "best work" is actually a laundry list of several tracks off each release that somehow outdo the rest.  Nevertheless,  vocalist Anthony Green goes above and beyond in these hidden gems, both accentuating his impressive range and thoughtful, metaphoric lyrics.


Why is it Song of the Week?:  On January 10th, Circa Survive guitarist Brendan Ekstrom revealed via Twitter that the band is writing a new record.  Wanna know what's better that news of a new Circa album? Nothing, that's what.  Therefore, in honor of the unofficial album announcement, Keep Calm and Carry On's Song of the Week is my favorite Circa Survive song "Stare Like You'll Stay."

Song of the Week, 1/06: Balance and Composure- "Tiny Raindrop B-Side"

What is it?: After the influential 2011 release of their first LP Separation, Balance and Composure quickly became a fan favorite for their crunchy instrumentals with dragged out feedback, gritty vocals, and cutting lyrics.  With the bar set so high, The Things We Think We're Missing, released in Fall 2013, would either propel the band to the forefront of the emo genre or leave them as the go-to opener for their peers' tours.  It is with great pleasure to music fans everywhere that the album was nothing short of incredible.  In their sophomore album, B&C found the cohesiveness within and between tracks that the first album struggled with.  They exemplify the success of great bands continuing to improve and push boundaries in order outdo their other impressive and beloved releases.

Why is it Song of the Week?: A couple days ago, the band released an alternate version of "Tiny Raindrop," one of the singles from one of the best albums of last year Things We Think We're Missing.  With the instrumentals reminiscent of the soul-crushing "Stonehands," featured on Separation, this version is even more devastating than the original.  This stripped down B-side builds up the emotional effect, emphasizing the fragility of Jon Simmon's lyrics without compensating the overall power of the song.  Prepare for the feels.

Song of the Week, 12/18: Brand New -"(Fork and Knife)"

What is it?: Released as a single nearly a year after The Devil and God are Raging Inside Me, "(Fork and Knife)" held fans together before Brand New's 2009 release Daisy.  Backed with drums and piano, Jesse Lacey's lyrics become the well-deserved center of focus.  This song leaked along with a bunch of other demos that ultimately shaped The Devil and God.  However, the band recorded the released version of "(Fork and Knife)" while recording the actual album, releasing The Devil and God in 2006 and the single in 2007.


Why is it Song of the Week?: If you were one of the lucky few who got Brand New tickets, you're about to have an awesome weekend.  If you are part of the large majority that sat at their computer at 11:59am, clicked "buy tickets" right at 12, and still got shut out of tickets, two of the three of us at KCACO understand your pain and share the burning hatred against ticketmaster.  However, this holiday show frenzy did give us one thing: the promise of more shows in 2014.  Although the European show announcements don't heal any wounds created by the quick sell-out of tickets of the December shows, it does suggest the prospects of some more touring in the upcoming year by the kings of emo.  Brand New is not known for keeping their fans in the loop and seem to drive their marketing base on the element of surprise.  Yet, for the sake of all of us fans, let's hope 2014 brings everyone a fighting chance for actually getting tickets for whenever these shows are announced.  A new album wouldn't hurt either.

Listen to the single "(Fork and Knife)" by Brand New below.

Song of the Week, 12/02/13: The Maine- "Ho Ho Hopefully"

What is it?: In 2008, The Maine released a holiday EP entitled . . .  And a Happy New Year via Fearless Records.  Only four songs long, this EP became a staple in any pop-punk lover's Christmas playlist.  Releasing their first full length and . . . And a Happy New Year both in the same year, The Maine jumped into the spotlight after receiving very positive feedback on both releases.  Now, even with four full-lengths and seven EPs in the discography, this group of holiday songs shine a little brighter than the rest.

Why is it Song of the Week?: It's officially December which mean no one can justify telling you to turn your holiday music off.  What better way to kick off the season than with one of the best emo Christmas songs of all time.  Emo Christmas music might sound like an oxymoron but these songs remind us that emo kids can find sadness in even the most wonderful time of the year.  Here at Keep Calm and Carry On, this spin on the usual cherry music is not only appreciated, but celebrated.  The Maine's . . . And a Happy New Year is the one of best the collections of Christmas music in this genre.  You can hear songs from this EP as well as many others this Saturday during WTSR's Holiday Show from 11-5pm on 91.3FM or wtsr.org. OPEN YOUR MIND!

Song of the Week 11/25: Modern Baseball- "Re-Do"

What is it?: Since their start in 2011, Modern Baseball has been writing quirky songs that make you want to dance while still striking a emotional chord.  While this may seem hard to do, the band's first LP Sports is an excellent example of the pains of outgrowing your town and the people in it while still keeping a sense of humor.  Modern Baseball teaches us that growing up might be hard but it'll be even harder if you take it too seriously, a reminder that many of us need.

Why is it Song of the Week?: Today is the one-year anniversary of Modern Baseball's first LP Sports.  For today only, you can download it for free from their bandcamp.  You can catch their Property of Zack Love Session of their song "Re-Do" below.

Song of the Week, 11/18: La Dispute- "Nine"

What is it? With passionate lyrics and haunting instrumentals, La Dispute can be considered the current masters of post-hardcore spoken word.  Delving deep into their discography, there is not one song that lacks the emotional tension that gives listeners goosebumps.  Tackling heavy subjects from divorce to death, vocalist Jordan Dreyer seems to identify with his fan base as he gives words to situations that leaves most speechless.  After coming into the spotlight with Vancouver  in 2006 and following up with two full-lengths released in 2008 and 2011 along EPs and splits in between, La Dispute inspired many of bands of the genre that are starting to make waves today.

Why is it Song of the Week?: La Dispute has been pretty quiet when it comes to new music.  Besides touring through the states about a year ago and doing about a quick Australian tour this summer, the band has been off the radar.  Their Facebook page and website's blog hadn't been updated in months until this past week when they announced a 24-hour limited edition T-shirt sale.  However, a teaser video was also released last week that didn't get as much attention as anticipated.  It might be due to the lack of information the video gives but overall, I think it is safe to say new music is coming.  La Dispute fans have been waiting years for new music from this talented band and, fingers crossed, the waiting game will be over soon enough. "Nine" is just one example of La Dispute's capabilities and why fans are begging for more.

Watch the Violitionist Session of "Nine" by La Dispute off of their 2009 release, Here, Hear. III.  The band released three EPs with numbered titles under different volumes of Hear, Hear., from 2008-2009.

You can catch the teaser below:

Song of the Week, 11/11: Dance Gavin Dance- "Strawberry Swisher pt. 3"

What is it?: After what seems like an ever-changing lineup from Dance Gavin Dance, things were not looking well for the band.  Even with the short return of Johnny Craig, the lackluster Downtown Battle Mountain II was nothing short of disappointing, especially compared to its predecessor Downtown Battle Mountain, a staple in the post-hardcore genre.  Shortly after that album's release and while on tour, Craig's inner demons led to his departure from the band once more.  Yet, the residing band members did not settle for defeat but rather pulled themselves together to create one of the better albums of their discography.  With Tilian Pearson (former Tides of Man) stepping in for vocals, Acceptance Speech revived the career of Dance Gavin Dance and gave us the best music we've heard from the band in years.

Why is it Song of the Week?: A little over a week ago, DGD released a music video for "Strawberry Swisher pt. 3," the only video from this album so far.  Jon Mess's screams are highlighted through a contrast against Tilian Pearson's clean vocals.  This all plays against the fast-paced guitars and quick beat that makes it nearly impossible to not bob your head along.  As for the video itself, it is one of the cooler music videos released in 2013.  It is centered around an artist throwing live models at a canvas to make inkblot paintings.  Throughout, the band is seen playing in a room with these paintings on the wall.  The entire DGD crew seems to be having a blast playing together, which adds to the fun vibes this song creates.  Hopefully, this is indication of the positive route Dance Gavin Dance is heading.

Check out the official music video for "Strawberry Swisher pt. 3" by Dance Gavin Dance off of their new album Acceptance Speech below!

Song of the Week, 11/4: Citizen- "Cicuta"

What is it?: Cicuta is Citizen's contribution to Will Yip's Off the Board: A Studio 4 Family Compilation, released in the beginning of October.  The money raised from the comp goes directly to Will Yip's efforts to buy Studio 4.  For the Philly scene and beyond, he is the one of the go-to producers for all things emo, hardcore, and punk.  Off The Board features exclusive songs from Title Fight, Circa Survive, Balance and Composure, Polar Bear Club, as well as others, all produced and engineered by Yip at Studio 4.


Why is it Song of the Week?: After releasing Young States in 2011, Citizen earned a title as a band to watch.  However, it was their June release Youth that proved that they are no longer young kids trying to make a name for themselves but rather a force to be reckoned with. Cicuta further illustrates this, as the song's booming chorus and heavy lyrics continue to resonate with the listener even after completion.  Although having a sound that's pretty cohesive with Youth, this song stands strongly within Off the Board.  Citizen fans should be content with this addition to the band's repertoire as it is a indication that Youth is only the beginning of outstanding releases to come.


You can hear Cicuta by Citizen off Will Yip's Off the Board: A Studio 4 Family Compilation below. You can find out more information about the comp as well as purchase it at http://offtheboardcomp.com/

Song of the Week, 10/28: The Sound of Animals Fighting- "Act II: All is Ash or The Light Shining Through It"

What is it?: The Sound of Animals Fighting released three albums between 2004-2008 and disappeared ever since.  This supergroup, created by Rich Balling (ex-Rx Bandits), released three albums over those four years featuring Anthony Green (Circa Survive, ex-Saosin), Craig Owens (Chiodos, ex- D.R.U.G.S), Keith Goodwin (Good Old War), as well as members of Finch and Rx Bandits.  Together, the band produced experimental rock albums that, not surprisingly, are still talked about today.  When names as big as these come together to make an album, good things are bound to happen.  Yet, after released their third album The Ocean and The Sun, The Sound of Animals Fighting kept quiet, exiting the spotlight nearly as quickly as they splashed in.


Why is it Song of the Week?: In the last couple weeks, TSOAF made some noise again.  Anthony Green gave fans a reason to hope, if not expect, some sort of news in the near future after ominously tweeting about a comeback a few weeks prior and posting a captionless picture of TSOAF on instagram just 5 days ago.  Although there has yet to be a concrete announcement or even an inkling as to what could be next, fans' imaginations have exploded with possibilities.  However, for now, we all must sit back and wait.  To occupy some anxious minds, here is "Act II: All is Ash or the Light Shining Through It" by The Sound of Animals Fighting, off of their first album Tiger and the Duke.

Song of the Week, 8/14: Sparks the Rescue- "Disaster"

What is it?: The first single and music video released from the band's upcoming self-titled, Kickstarter-funded EP, "Disaster" is a statement song for the Sparks the Rescue, if there ever was one, good or bad. With no label backing, and no higher-ups to answer to, did Sparks the Rescue flourish under their new-found freedom, or have they begun the process of showing themselves out of the scene?

Why is it Song of the Week?: I know it's far-fetched to call one song an official comeback, but if "Disaster" is any indication of what Sparks the Rescue have in store, the band have never been better. Never  short on energy, the band have perfectly blended Alex Roy's catchy hooks and choruses with the talented, often-overlooked musicianship of the band. New drummer Dylan Taylor makes every drum hit sound like a bang, and Mike Naran's solo in the middle of the song shows that though the band have taken a giant step forward, they haven't forgotten what they do best: make awesome pop-rock jams. Welcome back, Sparks the Rescue. Check out the video for "Disaster" below:

Song of the Week, 8/2: Blink-182- "What's My Age Again?"

What is it?: One of the monster singles on Blink's breakthrough Enema of the State, "What's My Age Again" is one of those songs that you just can't skip if it comes on on shuffle, or you tune into it on the radio.

Why is it Song of the Week?: Blink-182 is celebrating their 20-year anniversary today, and given the tendency for rapid change in today's music scene, staying together (for the kids, har har har) as a band is more difficult now than it's ever been. Not to mention, Blink-182's influence over the scene cannot be overstated. Bands like All Time Low, A Day to Remember, and countless others owe their existence to the fact that Blink-182 was able to break pop-punk into the mainstream, and give the misfit in all of us something to aspire to. Now that the band have reformed (they released the album Neighborhoods last year), they've been busy touring all over the world, and there's a chance even bigger things are coming: the band announced last week that they've been having "career-changing conversations" recently. Good or bad, the world is holding it's collective breath to see what The Mark, Tom, and Travis Show have up their sleeve next. Here's hoping they stay around for another 20 years.

Song of the Week, 6/27: Circa Survive- "Suitcase"

What is it?: Even though their well-known frontman Anthony Green just released a solo album this year (it's called Beautiful Things, and you can check out Craig's review of it here), Circa Survive has also found some time in between melting faces across the globe to complete their new album, Violent Waves. The album is set to be released on Tuesday, August 28, and the band will be touring in support of the new album with Touche Amore, Balance & Composure, and O'Brother this fall (dates can be found here)! As if announcing a new album and a new tour wasn't enough, the band is also offering up a free download of their new song "Suitcase" if you preorder Violent Waves. I don't even feel worthy of all this good news.

Why is it Song of the Week?: Because if this is the way Violent Waves is going to sound, we have a serious contender for Album of the Year on our hands. While "Suitcase" is a slower track than most of what the band has released, relying on Steve Clifford's consistently excellent drumming and Nick Beard's driving bass lines rather than the typical soaring vocals from Anthony Green. Green's vocals take on a much more somber tone, which makes "Suitcase" a little bit different than every other Circa Survive song, which means Violent Waves could be the most diverse album Circa Survive has released to date. If that's not enough to get you pumped up for this album, I'll shut up and let "Suitcase" do the talking:

Song of the Week, 6/20: All Time Low- "The Reckless and the Brave"

Who are they?: A few years ago, it seemed that All Time Low were the next band in line after Fall Out Boy and blink-182 to go from Warped Tour Main Stage to mainstream radio. But a funny thing happened on the way to the top. Signed to Interscope Records, the band never received the attention necessary for their breakout, and when the sales of their album Dirty Work flopped, a break-up with the label was all but imminent. Any band whose been this mishandled by a major label will understand the band's frustration, but instead of becoming bitter and jaded, All Time Low came back swinging the only way they know how: with another summer anthem, and a new album the band made on their terms.

Why is it Song of the Week?: The band have released "The Reckless and the Brave," the first single and song to be released from their yet-to-be-announced full-length, which the band are continuing work on while they play the Main Stage of Warped Tour all summer. The track holds its own with anything ATL has put out in the last five years (not that there was much from Dirty Work that turned heads), and the chorus will prove to be one of the best you'll hear all summer. It took a label mishap, a misguided shot to the top, and name-dropping Ke$ha in a song (it's in "I Feel Like Dancin'"), but it appears All Time Low have emerged from the rubble of a bad situation, as reckless and as brave as they've always been.

Song of the Week, 6/13: Transit- "Skipping Stone (Alternate Version)"

What is it?: When Transit released Listen and Forgive, their Rise Records debut, there was almost too much to like about it. But one of the standout tracks was the lone acoustic song, "Skipping Stone." Heart-wrenching and nostalgic, the song was revered by fans, but this admiration of the song came with a price: being that it was an acoustic song, there was no room for it in Transit's customary energetic live shows. Things took an interesting turn, however, when Polar Bear Club covered the song for the Glamour Kills Tour 2012 Compilation, and decided to to the track full-band (stream that here). What's more, to the surprise of most anyone interested in the band, Transit began playing their own full-band version of "Skipping Stone" on dates of the Glamour Kills Tour as well. Whether or not PBC's near-perfect cover sparked it or not, it was a welcome addition to the band's set, and from this writer's firsthand account, it was one of the best songs the band played all tour.

Why is it Song of the Week?: As if seeing the band tweak the song and play it live wasn't already awesome, the band entered the studio during some down time and recorded a full-band version of the song, which will be featured on the band's upcoming Skipping Stone 7", which will be available soon on Rise Records. While you can spend countless moments dissecting this version from the original, think about this: it's one of many great, great songs from one of the best upcoming bands in the scene today. Why not just sit back, crack open a cold beverage of your choice, and enjoy the ride?

Song of the Week, 5/23: Brand New- "You Won't Know"

What is it?: In simplest terms, "You Won't Know" is the definitive Brand New track. But saying that doesn't even do the song justice. The sixth track on the band's mind-blowing 2006 effort The Devil and God are Raging Inside of Me, the song has been a staple in the band's set no matter what kind of show they play, and with good reason.

Why is it Song of the Week?: Because "You Won't Know" is a rare treat in that as good as it is on record, mp3, CD, etc., the only way to truly appreciate the song is to watch the band perform it in a live setting. Always known for his personal, dark lyrics, Jesse Lacey seems to put forth more emotion and energy during "You Won't Know" than any other Brand New track, and when the band ended their set with it at this year's Bamboozle, they left a crowd of thousands in awe with a set that included broken drums, thrown guitars, and the stirring image of Jesse Lacey shedding tears during the end of the song on the Bamboozle Main Stage's giant screens. It's a performance that you had to be there to understand the power of, but if you weren't able to make it, here's a video of the performance:

It wasn't just Bamboozle 2012 where "You Won't Know" made headlines, however. In addition, the band ended their set at Lollapalooza (in 2008) with the song, 15 minutes before the set was supposed to end, when they became fed up with the fact that the crowd kept chanting for Rage Against the Machine to get on stage. Chaos ensued. Here's the video.

Whether or not you agree with me when I say that "You Won't Know" is the best song Brand New (and maybe any other band, for that matter) has ever written, there's no denying the significance the song holds with the band, and given the emotion they pour forth in the song, it'll likely be a song you're guaranteed to hear if you see the band play live.

Song of the Week, 5/9: The Gaslight Anthem- "45"

What is it?: The Gaslight Anthem have been relatively quiet since their set at last year's Bamboozle. And with good reason: Come July, you'll be hearing the entirety of their new album Handwritten, one of the year's most anticipated releases. When a band garners as much buzz as TGA have, and when an album is this anticipated (by me, at least), the leadoff single is a crucial play in the album's promotion. On Tuesday, the band released "45" for sale, in hopes of creating even more buzz for Handwritten.


Why is it Song of the Week?: Because as far as leadoff singles go, "45" may be the best one I've ever heard. It's got anything you'd ever want or expect from any other classic Gaslight track, with Brian Fallon's vocals sounding as raw and emotional as ever. What's more, the band invited 750 of its closest fans to the Stone Pony a few days ago to shoot a video for the track. From first-hand experience, I can tell you it's going to be a good one. So while we wait for the video to come out, let us all bask in the glory of The Gaslight Anthem and continue counting down the days until we get to hear Handwritten.

Song of the Week, 5/2: Coheed & Cambria- "Somebody That I Used to Know (Gotye Cover)"

What is it?: By now, you've probably heard Gotye's surprise smash hit "Somebody That I Used to Know," and the subsequent (and almost obligatory) gloss-over version as performed on Glee. Without a Punk Goes... release on the horizon, it appears Gotye is safe from being "scream-o-fied" by the current Rise Records Flavor of the Month. Hurrah! But still, with such a peculiar song with an even more peculiar amount of mainstream success, wouldn't it make sense for a band with some, uh, confidence give it the proper cover treatment?

Why is it Song of the Week?: It's actually quite simple: Coheed covered it. If it were any other band, it probably wouldn't have been as big a deal, or as good as this live rendition was. Coheed's been busy recently, reuniting with original drummer Josh Eppard, and beginning work on their new album, while enlisting Zach Cooper as their new bassist, and are now on tour with Moving Mountains and Pianos Become the Teeth. All this, and they were still able to find some time to work on and nearly perfect this cover. To be fair, Claudio Sanchez doesn't exactly know the lyrics, but his voice has never sounded better, and if you're a fan of the band, or covers in general, you'll hope this cover sees the studio time it deserves to see how Coheed can really deliver Gotye's unexpected hit. Until then, check it out below:

Song of the Week, 4/11: Yellowcard- "Hang You Up"

What is it?: "Hang You Up" was the first single and music video from Yellowcard's first album back from their hiatus (which began in 2007), When You're Through Thinking, Say Yes. The song is a slower number, which features some of frontman Ryan Key's signature heartfelt vocals, and drummer LP still finds a way to prove himself as one of the most formidable drummers in modern rock, all in a matter of four minutes.

Why is it song of the week?: Well, for starters, Yellowcard is a great spring/summer band, and with Memorial Day (the official start of summer) a mere 40(ish) days away, the band somehow gets better the longer the sun is out. Plus, as if it couldn't getting any better listening to songs like "Ocean Avenue" or "Light Up the Sky," the band have now confirmed that they have finished work on a new album, which means you'll soon have more Yellowcard jams to blast through your car's speakers with the windows down on your way to the beach. So, really, "Hang You Up" is just a placeholder. Nevertheless, Yellowcard continues to churn out good news after coming back from their hiatus. And the video for this song is great.

Where can I find it?: Here.

Song of the Week, 3/28: The Wonder Years- "Logan Circle"

Groundhog's Day. The end of Daylight Savings Time. Ash Wednesday. All of these are signs of Spring in today's culture. But if you're not superstitious, then a groundhog won't tell you when Winter ends. Daylight Savings Time is just a cruel joke the government plays on sleep-deprived college students. And depending on your religious affiliation, Ash Wednesday only applies to a few people.

What I'm trying to get at is this: the only real way to signify the coming of Spring is the first day of Spring, which took place this year on Tuesday, March 20. However, for fans of The Wonder Years (and there's a lot more of us around nowadays), the coming of Spring is signified by one act of public interest: turning on the fountain at Logan Circle.

Everyone has their own walk in life, and that walk leads, inevitably, to times of struggle. Dan "Soupy" Campbell found himself in one of those positions one Winter, but when Spring came, and he felt his life was headed in a positive direction, he penned the now infamous line: "They turned on the fountain today, at Logan Circle/I felt something in me change." On the surface, this line appears simple, but with a band like The Wonder Years, still waters always run the deepest. A few times, I've wondered (pun intended) what it could have been about that fountain that inspired Campbell and changed his mood so greatly. But I found out something: it really doesn't matter.

The point is, we all face our own struggles in life. Big and small, catastrophic or minuscule, there are all kinds of varieties. But that's what spring is about: shedding the weight (both literal and figurative) from winter, embracing the changing of the season, and applying to make a few improvements of your own. If a band like The Wonder Years has taught me anything, it's that no one problem is enough to break a person. So let it all go, readers, and embrace the warm weather. You don't have to revamp your lifestyle, or change everything about you; but if you do decide to "fix" something, keep an open mind, and don't let anything get the best of you. The warm weather is coming, and Summer's on it's way.

Until then, here's a video of the perfect song for the coming of Spring, "Logan Circle":

(PS: See that stage-diving Santa at 2:20? That was Craig Ismaili's first stage dive!)

Happy Spring, everyone!