The Ruckus

10 Questions: Sarah Lynne Designs

Dear friends and family of Tiffiny: if you're wondering what to get me as a gift this year, look no further. Since a mutual friend introduced me to my favorite Etsy store, Sarah Lynne Designs, I have spent a lot of time perusing and coveting the items there. There's always something incredible in stock, but if you're looking for something different, Sarah makes custom pieces as well (check out her jewelry portfolio and special orders gallery for inspiration). Since Sarah and her jewelry speak for themselves, let's skip to the important part:

You make custom pieces, right? Will you walk me through that process?
Often clients will come to me with an existing design I have done, but with a personal design request for the opposite side. I will draw a full color sketch with Adobe Illustrator based on their desires and color requests and once the design is outlined it is up to the client to approve or ask for tweaks. This process usually tends to be quite a rewarding collaboration often giving me new inspiration for future designs!

Noah and the Whale: The First Days of Spring

I am famous for being fickle, but Londoners Noah and the Whale have been one of my favorite bands since the debut of their first album, Peaceful, The World Lays Me Down, almost a year ago. I am consistently awed by their intrinsic talent for flawlessly matching lyric and melody; the effect is brilliantly cinematic.

Their new album, The First Days of Spring, is perfect in that regard (and all others. If I'm honest, I can't stop listening). Set to be released at the end of August along with a film by the same name, the album features a continuous narrative (similar to The Decemberists The Hazards of Love, it tells a story) which is completely captivating. The film features up and coming young actor Ben Lloyd-Hughes and model Daisy Lowe, who certainly look as though they fit the mood of the album perfectly; I can't wait to see if I'm right.

The album itself is amazingly good, with bursts of bright, Copland-esque instrumentals which segue into and out of the sweet, moody melodies which make up most of the songs. It is brilliant. A triumph. Buy this album. No, seriously. Buy this album. You can thank me later, after you've decided that you've found your new favorite band.

The CD is available now for pre-sale from Amazon, but if you're smart, you'll order the deluxe CD/DVD, complete with signed sleeve, from recordstore.co.uk. For now, have a listen to the title track right here (then download it for free), and then go visit the (quite newly minted) official blog, where the band often post remixes of their singles. While you're there, sign up for Whalemail, "a regular email update on their nautical misadventures."

Oh, and by the way? You're welcome.

The First Days of Spring Official Trailer from charlie fink on Vimeo.

People We Like: Steve Martin

Did you know that Steve Martin released a record early this year? It's true, and I'm not talking about one of those weird, "I'm an actor but music has always been my first love" things. The Crow: New Songs for the Five-String Banjo is serious stuff, and Martin has been playing the banjo forever.

Clawhammer Medley

At this point, you're probably wondering why I'm telling you about a record that A) was released at the beginning of the year, B) is a banjo record and C) is a record released by a performer best known for his comedic work. I could tell you that it's because the "Truly Wonderful and Just As Advertised" deluxe edition was released a few weeks ago, and that when I got my copy, I geeked out for a good hour over the brilliant packaging (I'm a sucker for good packaging), and that I feel like I'm at home when I listen to this album.

I could tell you that, and it would be completely true. I was born and raised in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, and grew up hearing bluegrass, folk and country music in my house alongside the classical, jazz, and rock 'n roll (my daddy was in a band, after all). I count the fiddle, banjo and Appalachian Dulcimer as some of my favorite instruments. Also, I have the biggest. crush. ever. on Steve Martin. I can't help it, he's brilliant (since I also count Garrison Keillor on my list of extraordinary gentlemen, you can imagine how happy I was when Steve Martin was a guest on A Prairie Home Companion - but we'll have to talk about my obsession with that another time).

Anyway, this record is phenomenal, Steve Martin is brilliant, and Dolly Parton, Vince Gill, Earl Scruggs, Tim O'Brien and Mary Black pop up at various points to round out the awesome. Check out Martin's appearance on Letterman last year (along with the inimitable Bela Fleck), and then grab the deluxe version yourself.

Low vs. Diamond: Story Songs

June 5, 2009 // The Paramount Theater // Denver, CO

Okay, fine. Low vs. Diamond is a little more "on" the beaten path than we typically traverse here at American Indie- but it is good fun to meander from time to time. Also, I love this band. Seriously, I have listened to their album an embarrassing number of times, and I feel like I find new depths with each listen. Low vs. Diamond is an album that is incredibly easy to listen to but there's something else there. The songs are more than just catchy; they have substance. 

Last year, Low vs. Diamond was named by Rolling Stone as one of 2008's "Artists To Watch". The band has been touring extensively with a variety of acts. I caught them opening for Third Eye Blind (who are apparently big fans of the band) at The Paramount Theater in Denver. 

Low vs. Diamond began their set with Heart Attack, one of my favorite songs on the album. This track really jumps out and sticks with you. The track begins with a driving beat and bold electric guitar then proceeds into a more melodic chorus with an intense, layered bridge. The lyrics are thought provoking and relatable (Pretty people standing by / we blame we pretend / and we try and act surprised / as we watch the world end). Also, I never watch music videos anymore, but I was absolutely mesmerized by the one for this track. Another of my most loved tracks, Wasted, was also a highlight. This song carries a simple, grungy guitar line with Field's clear voice then adds in stacked harmonies and instrumentals through the song. It came out rawer in the live show, which added to the experience.

Overall, the audience started out a little apprehensive, but then, in small groups, they began to get into the show. A few songs in, I noticed more and more people standing. Three of the five members of the band attended The University of Colorado at Boulder and there was plenty of support from the crowd there. Audience members cheered at the mention of the school and some came in CU gear. A few songs further in, I noticed more and more people standing. Toward the end of their set, front man Lucas Field asked everyone to stand and they did. The gig ended with the dynamic Don't Forget Sister. This tune is a gritty rock anthem and is a live show staple for the band. I can't imagine someone not being moved to stand for this song.

The show was well played and a lot of fun. I'll definitely be attending the next time they come through the area. Make sure you give this band a listen.

I met up with Lucas Field after their set. He recognized me as the "one with the cool Travis shirt taking pictures" from the audience. [FYI if you're ever looking for me at a show, I'm always the one wearing a cool band shirt and taking pictures.] It was a pleasant night so we walked over to Sixteenth Street, discussing Travis, and found a vacant bench. I felt instantly at ease with Field. He is charismatic, kind, and sincere. His devotion to his wife, Annie, is adorable.

Album Review: Brian Bonz - From Sumi To Japan

Brian Bonz, of Kevin Devine's Goddamn Band is releasing an album on August 4th, From Sumi to Japan. Devine and Jesse Lacey (of Brand New) both make guest appearances on the release.



I would classify this record under experimental rock. Bonz, backed by the Dot Hongs, has put together a lovely album, full of indie pop-esque acoustic guitar work layered with synthesizers and topped by subdued, pleasant vocals. This all creates a Death Cab For Cutie meets Brian Eno effect. Kid Shit stands out with it's catchy intro and develops into a soaring tune. My favorite track, Goodnight, Captain Revelstoke takes the album out with a bittersweet bang. Bonz's voice echoes hauntingly over power chords, keyboards, and strings.



The dreamlike quality makes this record a fantastic soundtrack. I recommend giving it a listen when you're in need of a contemplative place or just want something mellow to accompany your evening.



Check out the video for Dee the Dinosaur:







Keep an eye out for From Sumi To Japan, which will be available on August 4th from Triple Crown Records. You can find more on Brian Bonz at myspace.com/brianbonz.

FEATURE INTERVIEW: THE AKRON/FAMILY EXPERIENCE

As a long time Colorado resident, I appreciate it when awesome bands take the time to come through our little state and play several shows, as the unparalleled Akron/Family will be doing over the next week (as well as many more dates in other places before and after). Oft described as folk-influenced experimental rock, it is hard to pin down exactly where this band fits into the music world; I recommend that you see them live to gain any sort of understanding of what they do. Check out one of my favorites, Everyone Is Guilty as performed at SXSW earlier this year:







Through the magic of the internet, I was able to ask Akron/Family some questions. Please enjoy their delightful answers as much as I have.

Feature Interview: Bobby Long

Those who know about Bobby will know that it all started to come together for him when he was “discovered” at the open mic nights run by London promoters Up All Night. It seemed fitting, then, that his last night in London before heading off on his Dangerous Summer Tour of America and Europe would be spent playing at an Up All Night open mic.

Unadvertised and with just a few fans in the audience, it was a lovely evening of good music and good cheer. Bobby and his manager, Phil Taylor, looked more relaxed than I have seen them in a long time. There was a real feeling of this being the start of something big for Bobby; it all seems to finally be coming together.