http://www.tsunamimag.com/ Tsunami Magazine Articles http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=3853 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=3853 THE TIVOLI Tuesday, 24th November It’s nine pm and the stage is set. Anticipation hangs heavy over the room as a sizable audience waits to be ravaged by Australia’s kings of riff-mania, Karnivool. As the cascading bass-line of “Simple Boy” fills the auditorium the crowd responds with frenzied howls of lust and joy. Standing in front of the stage, the atmosphere is electric. Front man Ian Kenny,... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=9320 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=9320 THE SCARE THE SANDS TAVERN Wednesday, November 18 2009 Written on the 19th November by Tom S With the laid back, surf rock band, Whitley playing in the larger front room, The Scare were able to secure the smaller and perhaps more intimate back room. The Scare quite predictably, had a younger, and to a small extent, trendier following than the generally older and slightly relaxed crowd that turned out for Whitley.... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=9095 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=9095 MASC stage @ U Tribe 25/09/09 to 27/09/09 Written on the 30th October 2009, by Amanda At the recent UTribe festival, the newly established Music Association of the Sunshine Coast (MASC) provided the venue for a parliament of especially home spun sound. On a mission from the planet groove, the MASC collective has been actively supporting and showcasing Sunny Coast talent for some months in a bid to beam down local flavoured line-ups to a... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=8355 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=8355 Well, well, well. A few cheeky sorts on the East Coast decided to play around with the early build of the Falls Festival website, and managed to catch a glimpse of the lineup. We've been pitching tents ever since. Grizzly Bear, Yeah Yeah Yeahs and the Editors? Yesh please! Head along to fallsfestival.com to sign up for the ticket ballet. Go on kiddies, get! Yeah Yeah Yeahs Moby Hilltop Hoods Grizzly Bear Rodrigo y... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=8377 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=8377 Australian hip-hop is as polarising a genre of music as you could hope to come across in this country: it seems people either love it, or they hate it – indeed, there doesn’t seem to be much middle ground. Looking at the recent Triple J Hottest 100 of All Time, you’d wager that a good deal of our younger population are in favour the genre – voting Hilltop Hoods as the ‘Greatest Australian... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=8383 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=8383 DAY ONE Rod Ham: Apart from a generous new recycling initiative - which gave those willing to scamper around like dirty hobos collecting cans the chance to get pissed for free - ¬ and a new D-barrier at the Supertop, it was business as usual for Splendour ’09. Niki Lee: Ah, Splendour. You can almost feel the carefree festival attitude rubbing off on you even before you cross through the gates. We strolled through the... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=8200 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=8200   A true sonic chameleon, Mos Def will sure as hell never rest on his laurels. Niche-smashing eccentricity is his watchword – and his gutsy formula has never gelled so well as it has here on The Ecstatic: a bold, genre progressive, politically-charged global zeitgeist. The bitterly disappointing True Magic almost proved a swansong – making the success of this follow up LP all the more stunning. For the first... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=8166 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=8166   Photo: Rodolphe Baras There are few crooners, it must be said, that have caused as much fuss posthumously as the ever doe-eyed enigma, Jeff Buckley. His sole living LP release, Grace, went from cult-hit to contemporary classic following his mysterious death in 1997, with tracks from Last Goodbye to Hallelujah etched into the annals of alt. rock. Indeed, Buckley became the pin-up for a generation of vocalists from Matt... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=8053 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=8053 Jordie Lane Sleeping Patterns (Vitamin) 9.5/10 Let’s cut to the chase right here – the debut LP from Melbourne based songster, Jordie Lane, is an absolute cracker, and in fact, I’ll go out on a limb here and say that this will come in as Record of the Year. Perhaps that’s a phrase bandied around a little too often by music writers at inappropriate times of the year (like, not at the end), but... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=8052 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=8052 Grace Around the World Jeff Buckley (Sony/Columbia) 6.5/10 The soaring croons of Jeff Buckley are rightly still echoing our ears, 15 years after his groundbreaking debut, and 12 after his heartbreaking death. Meticulously crafted and produced to its seamless finish, Grace Around the World is a composite live set of Buckley’s 1994 debut, Grace (with Corpus Christi Carol making way for the excellent What Will You Say), made up of... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=8220 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=8220 Photo: Elleni Toumpas One of the best things about being a locally-focussed music writer is the chance to see a band start from the humblest of beginnings and turn themselves into superstars. On Friday night, Yves Klein Blue completed yet another milestone on their trip to stardom, selling out the Powerhouse Theatre, and rewarding the attention with an excellent show. The Last Dinosaurs open proceedings with a set of... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=8051 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=8051 One of the incessant (and deathly irritating) dialogues of the Australian music industry is Triple J. It seems that everyone and their deaf uncles have an opinion on it. Triple J is too hipster. They don’t play enough Australian music. They try to jam shit Australian music down our throats. They play too much hip-hop. Kingsmill is a dictator. Kingsmill won’t play my band because he doesn’t like our... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7917 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7917 When you’re kicking back in the Scottish Highlands for a quick rest in what seems to be a never-ending touring schedule, the last thing you wish for is to be woken up early to do twenty something interviews. Lead singer of the Temper Trap Dougy Mandagi is one exception; turns out he doesn’t mind a yarn on a cold Scottish morning. BY VIVIENNE HILL Since the Temper Trap left Australia, their overseas success has... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7916 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7916 Every now and again we get hit with a ‘hype band’, a group who the industry jumps on and lauds as the Next Big Thing™ and who get jammed down our throats at every opportunity. Of course, over the past few years in particular, there have been more than just a couple – Jet, Airbourne, Wolfmother, and just last year, the Melbourne-based Galvatrons. This four-piece electro/rock band were, it seems, born in... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7915 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7915 They’ve been singing songs about bananas and rollerskates for over two decades and have earned themselves some high-profile fans (the likes of Sonic Youth and the late Kurt Cobain) in the process… But don’t be fooled by the cutesy exterior of Japan’s biggest all-girl band Shonen Knife – as vocalist/guitarist Naoko Yamano herself announces, album number 15 Super Group sees the girls more raw... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7914 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7914 Did you know that a Regular John is a term for a customer in the sex industry? It’s also the name of a Queens of the Stone Age song. But your education of mindless facts doesn’t stop there: Regular John are also a band, and a bloody tops one too. Ryan Adamson could tell you that, but what does the lead singer of Regular John know about other stuff? Well, it turns out Ryan Adamson is a rather articulate man on loads of... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7913 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7913 Passion Pit is a band that is instantly infectious – colourful, synth-laced, hook-ridden pop…you’d have to be a pretty grumpy prick not to like ‘em, really. In 2008, when a musical Valentine’s Day gift from frontman Michael Angelakos to his then-girlfriend was unleashed to the public, the unique pop aesthetic spread like wildfire across blogs – so much so that you could say that... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7912 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7912 So what makes a classic rock record? Well, according to Manchester Orchestra drummer Jeremiah Edmond, you can rock the hell out all you want, but at the core of every timeless tune is a spine-tingling melody that takes you back to a certain point in time. BY NINA BERTOK Taking a page from the book titans that like Nirvana, Weezer and Foo Fighters have written, Edmond and his Manchester Orchestra bandmates have just released their sophomore... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7911 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7911 Melbourne-based hip-hop artist Illy burst onto the scene last month with the release of his debut album Long Story Short. First single, Generation Y, a tribute to the much maligned youth of Australia, is already making waves on Triple J. He’d just woken up after a long night of study when Emma Taylor caught up with him. This first release had been a labour of love and he’s just relieved to have finished it. “It... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7909 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7909 Four years ago, out of the wilds of Brooklyn, emerged Grizzly Bear – not a 500 pound, hairy killing machine, but a four-pronged indie rock group that have ingrained themselves in the psyche of American (and indeed, international) music lovers and have been garnering praise from the highest points of the industry since. Fleet Foxes frontman, Robin Pecknold has proclaimed the Grizzly’s new record, Veckatimest as the... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7908 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7908 British chameleons Friendly Fires want to rock with you, writes Steve Tauschke. Michael Jackson’s choreographed falsetto-pop seems an unlikely reference point for a bunch of lads who started out playing gritty hardcore, but it’s all part of the musical melting pot that has evolved into UK trio Friendly Fires. “The thing I like about the Jacksons in the ‘70s was that they were trying to write more than... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7907 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7907 It’s been a rollercoaster of a year for Bondi proggers Cog, and what better way to celebrate the ride than with a tour to wrap things up before album number three? BY NINA BERTOK “It’s time to get back into the Cog writing bubble and start exploring musical possibilities,” concurs drummer extraordinaire Lucius Borich. “And once we get going, we spend a fucking long time [there], so this... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7906 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7906 DZ are a two-piece garage/punk/party band from Brisbane. They used to be a three-piece called Denzel, but their drummer flew the coop, and so guitarist, Simon Ridley switched to drums, leaving Shane Parsons to shoulder six-string duties on his own. As such, they’ve been together for around a year and a half, and have been playing gigs for the past 12 months. They’ve yet to release anything album style, but they have just... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7905 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7905 THE VIRGINS Self Titled (Atlantic/Warner) 7/10 The Virgins aren’t exactly bursting with musical talent, but they have enough attitude and charisma to make up for it. Not to mention, they know how to make some pretty decent pop songs. Similar to bands before them, like the Strokes, they’re a group of New York City club kids who pride themselves on ‘cocaine brunch’ (She’s Expensive), their... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7904 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7904 THE HORRORS Primary Colours (XL) 8/10 When the Horrors first came and wowed us with their debut album, Strange House, we got the picture that they were all about eerie synth lines, raspy and droning vocals and utilising layer upon layer to craft their sound. On the other hand is their new offering, Primary Colours. It is all too frequent that a band will produce an album that is well received by fans and, come the time for the... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7903 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7903 The Fumes Sundancer (Independent / MGM) 7/10 The Fumes’ sophomore record, Sundancer, begins innocently enough – a 30-odd second organ and low, dark wah-guitar ditty faintly reminiscent of an evil carnival somewhere that soon bursts into second track, Who Do You Love with a bottom end fatter than Oprah Winfrey’s, a signpost as to exactly where the Fumes are going on this, the follow-up to their critically... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7902 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7902 THE BLOODPOETS Borderline (Single) (Paperplane) 9/10 Latest single from Brisbane’s own four piece power-pop group is certainly a keeper. Borderline, the first single, leaves you not only wanting to sing along to the chorus, but also squeal along with the verses whilst playing feverish air guitar during the instrumental sections – it’s just so damn catchy. B-side 100 Lashes certainly sounds more amateur by... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7901 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7901 THE TEMPER TRAP Conditions (Liberation) 9/10 For me this year, there has been no album anticipated as much as this one. Ever since the sweet pulsating rhythms of Sweet Disposition hit my ears I have been yearning for more sounds from The Temper Trap. It’s finally here and the band are going to take over the world with this debut. It turns out that The Temper Trap’s singles Sweet Disposition and Science of Fear are... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7900 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7900 Talons Self Titled (Rice is Nice) 8/10 One constant of Talons’ music is that it is always interesting and thought-provoking – that was evident from previous EP, Ducats – but now they have added new sound dynamics and flare to give them a rare intensity. Musically, it is a giant splatter of influences and genres crafted perfectly to the end result. Drawing from the rawness and spontaneity of bands like... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7899 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7899 SONS OF SEASONS Gods Of Vermin (Napalm) 6.5/10 Right down to the cover art, this album is epic, complex, dark, and more than just a little cheesy. Filled with grand visions and powerful vocals, it constantly trips the line between experimental and painfully retro. Formed from the ashes of Blaze Bayley’s band (minus Blaze, the one time singer of Iron Maiden) it is easy to see the influences at work here. There is however so... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7898 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7898 SARAH HAIGH Hurricane (Independent) 7/10 Brisbane artist Sarah Haigh’s latest EP, Hurricane shows off her ability to make decent pop music. Her strong, sensual voice that screams ‘don’t mess with me’ is the key to her style, giving standard pop tunes a mysterious, dark undertone. Ballad, Heart of Darkness is surprisingly capable with beautiful intertwining melodies between guitar and voice. For... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7897 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7897 REGULAR JOHN The Peaceful Atom Is A Bomb (Difrnt/Universal) 8/10 There is nothing regular about these guys at all. Okay, maybe their name – but everything else on this album is extraordinary. From the twisted guitar riff of the opening track to the last chord, The Peaceful Atom Is A Bomb takes over your soul with hard hitting, grungy, psychedelic rock. Language has been played to death on some radio stations but listeners... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7896 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7896 Pony Up Stay Gold (Laughing Outlaw) 7/10 With their third album, the girls of Pony Up have fused the irreverent pop-rock of their earlier releases with something a little heavier. Despite delving into this dark and completely mesmerising territory, the wry humour of Make Love to the Judges with Your Eyes is still here. The song Bastard Children takes lyrics from the Sesame Street theme song and sets them to the most depressing music on... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7895 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7895 Passion Pit Manners (Sony) 8.5/10 There’s no doubting it – this record received a morbid dose of pre-release hype and exposure, ending with an unceremonious leaking, days before its release. But whilst acts like the Black Kids proved a little underwhelming post-blogosphere hype, Manners came in tasting as sweet as ever. Right off the bat with Little Secrets, the debut LP from the euphoric five-piece is such a darn... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7894 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7894 MSTRKRFT Fist of God (Universal/etcetc) 5.5/10 If opener It Ain’t Love is anything to go by then MSTRKRFT want two things out of this album: some serious (I’m talking Rihanna serious) airplay and possibly some advertisement offerings. I guess they saw Daft Punk do all those funky ads and decide that they wanted a piece of the action. I don’t know about you, but I still think that robot helmets are cooler... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7893 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7893 Mono Hymn to the Immortal Wind (Human Highway Records/valve) 8/10 Once upon a time, about ten years ago, there lived a band in Japan. Going under the moniker of Mono, they created a signature cacophony of sound, driven by drum and strings. Throughout their homelands and across the globe, Mono has since been celebrated as a quartet who put the finger up at predisposed ideas of music. Over recent years, they refined their form of... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7892 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7892 Mick Thomas & the Sure Thing Spin, Spin, Spin! (Liberation) 8/10 With his fourth record alongside the Sure Thing, Mick Thomas has shown why he is indeed one of Australia’s finest singer/songwriters. Cobbled together over almost a whole year, Spin, Spin, Spin! is a different record for Thomas in that there was minimal planning involved, the man and the band letting the songs run wild like unruly children, piecing... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7891 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7891 MADINA LAKE Attics to Eden (Roadrunner) 7.5/10 Since stellar performances at this year’s Soundwave Festival, twin rockers Matthew and Nathan have hit us with the second instalment in the chronicles of the mythical town of Madina Lake. Produced by David Bendeth from House of Loud Studios, the second offering in this rock fairy tale continues the theme of Good Vs Evil in their lyrical depiction of a Pan’s Labyrinth... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7890 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7890 JUNGLE ROT What Horrors Await (Napalm) 6/10 Heavy and uncompromisingly brutal. None of this popular chorus B.S. – this is death metal. It isn’t some sort of crossover, it ain’t one of those young ‘something’ core bands! It is always refreshing to hear a band stick to their thing and do it well no matter what the current fashion; and Jungle Rot certainly can’t be accused of... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7889 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7889 Jenny Wilson Hardships! (etcetc) 8/10 The sophomore album from the Scandinavian songstress proves to be a worthy follow-up to her debut. Packed with tricky little songs which worm their way into your brain, Hardships! is the kind of album that sneaks up on you, hanging around your head for days after the first listen. There’s a shuddering kind of energy to the songs, though they remain strangely restrained, it’s an... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7888 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7888 ILLY Generation Y (Obese Records) 6.5/10 Generation Y is the first single released from Illy’s forthcoming album Long Story Short, another Aussie hip-hop artist from the Obese Records stable. While the rhyme and production is typical of the Obese sound – strong and clean – unfortunately there is not much on this single that makes Illy stand out on his own. The sample on the single is more than reminiscent... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7887 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7887 Huckleberry Swedes Suburban Dreaming (Independent/Vitamin) 7/10 It would seem, over the past few years, there have been a number of bands on the Australian alt country/rock n’ roll scene (in the vein of Wilco or the Cardinals or even Crazy Horse) who have been honing their guitar-based chops, and so just recently a slew of them have come to the fore. Downhills Home, the Wildes, and now from Adelaide, the Huckleberry Swedes, a... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7886 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7886 GRIZZLY BEAR Veckatimest (Warp/Inertia) 10/10 There are a lot of big words flying around about Grizzly Bear nowadays, but I must admit that I find even the biggest of these to be justified. Yellow House did indeed feel like the best record of 2006 and the brand new opus Veckatimest could be even better. I say “could be” because this is one immensely detailed record and the fact of the matter is, there is no way one... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7885 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7885 GALLOWS Grey Britain (Warner) 8.5/10 More relevant and timely than any other release today, Grey Britain has given a voice to the masses in a stark reflection of the shattered social reality of modern Britain. It’s a brutal and aggressive punk progressive mix, topped off with the morose grating vocals of the charismatic Frank Carter. The insidious lyrics, an anthem for distraught British youth, are voiced perfectly with a punk... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7884 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7884 FREELAND Cope (Marine Parade/Inertia) 3/10 Just like some comedians wish they were rock stars, you have to suspect that some DJs wish they were musicians. This “full band” offering helmed by producer Adam Freeland and aided by contributors such as the Pixies’ Joey Santiago and Devo’s Jerry Casale among others shows Freeland outside of his comfort zone, haphazardly treading in waters that others... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7883 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7883 Dreadnaught Self Titled (Amphead Music) 8/10 Melbourne metal lords, Dreadnaught, were a band I stumbled upon whilst still at school, not long after they formed, back in the late ‘90s. Since then, I’ve watched them rise to the top of the Oz metal pile, I’ve caught them live as much as their reclusiveness has allowed and I’ve waited with bated breath for their every release – their fourth... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7882 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7882 DINOSAUR JR Farm (PIAS/Liberation) 8.5/10 The second offering from newly reformed Dinosaur Jr is a stark reminder of the debt of gratitude owed by many modern rock artists to these pioneers, who first laid the foundation of noisy, droning alt rock years before anyone had even heard of ‘grunge’. Coming full circle 25 years on, this record sounds as much like old Dinosaur as it does like a mixture of every band that... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7881 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7881 Datarock Red (Etcetc) 8/10 Totally. For sure. Like, it’s about time we stole some fresh stuff from ‘80s popular culture. The Presets were getting extremely repetitive, and their costumes are just plain dull. Now we can enjoy more three-chord, synthesizer-driven beats and uncomplicated lyrics; but with style. Datarock will get you hot: red hot. A follow up to 2005 self-titled party-favourite album, the new disc pays... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7880 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7880 CHAIRLIFT Does You Inspire You (Sony) 7/10 Every time Bruises touches my ears, I feel like bopping up and down in a stupor. Not just because their song was used on an ad for the iPod Nano, but because listening to Chairlift just does crazy things to a person’s ego, persona and attitude. There’s no doubt that their cute indie/shoegazing tunes don’t just sell miniscule electronic music players, but they... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7877 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7877 BEN HARPER AND THE RELENTLESS 7 White Lies for Dark Times (Virgin/EMI) 6/10 There is no doubt about it; Ben Harper is one talented dude. He spawned a generation of songwriters and took his surf-blues-rock to the upper echelons of the genre. This latest offering, whilst enjoyable and full of the trademark Harper sound, is certainly not going to be remembered as a definitive or brilliant work. Harper’s new band, Relentless 7... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5275 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5275 The Butterfly Effect works on the theory that something small can create something massive. Starting off in Brisbane a decade ago, their third studio album, Final Conversation of Kings, debuted at #3 on the ARIA charts, only behind Metallica and Kings of Leon, and in front of The Pussycat Dolls. But that doesn’t mean that they think or act like rock stars. Georgia Frances King discusses the flipside of the coin with drummer Ben... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5269 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5269 They say strange things come out of Tasmania, and while I don’t have the evidence to prove otherwise, I can say for sure that monstrous things come out of the Apple Isle – the most monstrous in the past decade are tech-metal lords, Psycroptic. Here’s a four-piece that has been (not-so) quietly taking the Australian metal scene by storm, a storm which has blown overseas and had people the world over trying to... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7753 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7753 Parklife has announced the first lineup of acts for its 2009 shows and true to form it is star studded. Empire of the Sun, Metric, The Rapture, La Roux, Crystal Castles, MSTRKRFT, Metronomy (pictured), Lady Sovereign and heaps more will be tearing up the Botanic Gardens on September 26th. Full lineup: Aeroplane, Art vs Science, The Aston Shuffle, A-Trak, AutoKratz, Beni, Bertie Blackman, Busy P (DJ & host), Claude VonStroke, The Cool... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7612 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7612 Doves are making a comeback four years after they last graced our shores, on the back of their superb new album Kingdom of Rust. They haven't got any dates in Brisbane or surrounds, but they're playing Melbourne, Sydney and Perth in late July - nice timing for an appearance at Splendour perhaps... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7600 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7600 Following a successful overseas trip local lads Yves Klein Blue are touring the nation to celebrate releasing their new album Ragged & Ecstatic. They're playing Bon Amici in Toowoomba on June 25th, The Powerhouse on the 26th, Soundlounge at Currumbin on the 27th and Woombye Pub on the 29th. http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7556 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7556 Splendour in the Grass tickets have sold out for 2009, with all the tickets disappearing in just one and a half hours. Those that were lucky enough to get them have no doubt already started planning their big weekend, while those that missed out will have to wait until the 15th to try again for tickets. At 9am on June 15 ticketholders can resell their tickets via qjump. http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7633 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7633 Opening band Blackboard Minds are a band whose image suggests they have entered some kind of a wormhole at Woodstock, and have consequently wound up coming out the other end, only to find themselves playing a set on Brisbane’s newest and brightest stage. Their sound echoes their look and thus earns the approval of the traditionalists in the crowd. They put on a vigorous display of rock, yet the songs themselves never seem to pass... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7426 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7426 My first venture into Brisbane’s newest venue was impressive to say the least. Aside from the disappointment of not being able to check out the upstairs level the rest of the facility is world-class. Fantastic sound, plenty of room and great sightlines. The only point against the place (except for pricey drinks) was the crowd of rude hipsters that shoved and elbowed their way through the joint. But to the bands… On a... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7425 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7425 It's barely even getting chilly and we're already looking towards spring! Sounds Of Spring has announced the first list of bands playing on September 26 at Victoria Park. The Living End, Children Collide (pictured), Frenzal Rhomb, The Beautiful Girls and Josh Pyke are just a few. More bands to come! THE LIVING END, JOSH PYKE, FRENZAL RHOMB, THE BEAUTIFUL GIRLS, SHIHAD, BUTTERFINGERS, DOWNSYDE, URTHBOY, CHILDREN COLLIDE, SHONEN KNIFE, QUAN,... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7632 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7632 Blonde and bronzed were the flavours of the day, as Sunny Coast punters piled out in their hordes to support the virginal festival; billed as the first of more to come. The Ripe gig had a lot of support from the industry, with our very own Tsunami acting as a major sponsor. Even the State Govvie chucked in some money to help get it to fruition from its inception stages 18 months ago. The House With No Steps site is prime for an event of... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7325 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7325 YEAH YEAH YEAHS It’s Blitz MODULAR 9/10 The beat pulses first, making way for a vibrating sound that continues for several seconds. Then, out of the already established grittiness, Karen O’s simultaneously sweet and razor-like voice erupts into Zero. Somehow, the Yeah Yeah Yeahs manage to maintain a constant edge to their music, even when it drops off into quite slow melodies. It’s Blitz is all about the... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7324 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7324 STATIC-X Cult of Static REPRISE RECORDS 7/10 A decade of screams, a hot porn-star wife, and a legion of obsessive fans – welcome to the Cult of Static. Dedicated as a tribute to their fans, right from the first words it is obvious that this is a Static-X album, and if you have heard one before you will know exactly how it will sound.  That being said, opening track Lunatic is by far one of the standouts of the... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7323 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7323 SILVERSTEIN A Shipwreck in the Sand VICTORY/STOMP 7.5/10 Silverstein have always been thereabouts when it comes to the post-hardcorish genres. Always being noticed but never commanding the respect of a must see band, as they floated through a sea of often generic and uninspiring bands. This effort however catapults them to the forefront of the genre as they put their hands up to be counted. A concept album of sorts, A Shipwreck in the... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7321 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7321 PET SHOP BOYS Yes PARLOPHONE/EMI 7/10 Very little has changed in the Pet Shop Boys camp, the slight writing of their new album cover cheekily commenting on the giant, multicoloured tick that sits boldly atop a flat, white surface. The dynamic duo are back, and  are as witty, stylish and considered as always. While their blatantly camp synth-pop aesthetic was always going to put some people off, Pet Shop Boys’... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7320 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7320 KID606 Shout at the Döner TIGERBEAT 6 / VALVE 8/10 Don’t let the demented satanic cat and the crucifix of kebab meat found in the album art deter you from giving Shout at the Döner a spin. Evil Nine had a go at doing the zombie-themed dance record recently, but I find it much easier to imagine Satan’s minions reaching for the lasers in some depraved Berlin basement, getting down to tunes from the... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7319 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7319 HUNGRY KIDS OF HUNGARY Mega Mountain MGM 8/10 Not content to sit back and grow fat, Brisbane Indie darlings HKoH have popped out a follow-up to their 2008 self-titled debut with a spanking new EP. These four tracks will lead listeners to wistful heights, weaving their way through yester-lands of indie pop and classical orchestral enchantment. It’s like a Magical Mystery Tour, without the acid. HKoH deliver worthy... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7318 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7318 EVERMORE The Truth of the World Warner 5.5/10 I guess the Hume brothers decided it was time to grow up and become serious musicians with their first concept album. A vision of a nightmare future where the world is controlled by the corrupt mass-media, how original. Track one, Plugged In, kicks off with a blast of guitar, atmospheric keyboards and vocals, which sounds annoyingly familiar, probably because you’ve heard them on... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7317 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7317 EASY STAR ALL-STARS Easy Star’s Lonely Hearts Dub Band EASY STAR RECORDS 7/10 As cheesy as the entire concept (and weed-leaf emblazoned front cover) may be, Easy Star’s re-recording of The Beatles’ 1967 opus Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band is surprisingly well executed, and even reverent. The arrangements are meticulous, the musicians skillfull and the production both detailed and... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7316 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7316 The Decemberists Hazards of Love Capitol 9/10 Concept album! Rock-opera! Still reading? If you have a taste for the epic, a well-honed sense of humour and an appreciation for bombastic indie-rock, then The Hazards of Love is for you. If not, then stop reading now because it’s only going to get worse. The Decemberists are no strangers to epic storytelling, having woven a majestic tale of ancient Japanese love and... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7315 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7315 BAT FOR LASHES Two Suns THE ECHO LABEL/EMI 8/10 Two Suns is perhaps the perfect follow up album for Bat For Lashes’ 2006 debut Fur And Gold, showcasing a set of more matured and collected songs. A loose concept album about dualities – chaos and balance, love and pain – this subject matter hangs heavy within the lyrics. Sounding like a more commercial-friendly version of Bjork mixed with PJ Harvey and Tori... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7301 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7301 Without a childhood musical mentor, Tom Gabel was left to make his own early listening choices untarnished by parental or peer pressure. By Steve Tauschke. “I didn’t really get into music with a group of friends or under the influence of an older brother so I had no-one really guiding me,” says the 28-year-old leader of American punk outfit Against Me. “All I could ever really go off was whether I... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7300 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7300 If anyone knows what it’s like to be at the top of the world, it’s Kim Moyes and Julian Hamilton. As ARIA Award winners and Australia’s biggest electronic-pop duo, The Presets have been unable to put a foot wrong ever since the release of their 2007 sophomore album Apocalypso. So where does the Aussie sensation go from here? Onwards and upwards, of course, as Moyes reveals. By Nina Bertok. “At the... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7298 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7298 A little over a month ago in Brisbane City Hall, a veritable who’s-who of local couture congregated for a night of fashion and arts. The Glamazons, Fashionistas – whatever the they’re called – were full of laughs, gossip and top shelf champagne...which made it all the more stunning when they were hushed into an eerie silence by understated indie-pop songstress Tara Simmons, accompanied only by her... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7297 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7297 'Insane in the Brain!’ - Surely one of the most recognizable chants Senen Reyes – aka Sen Dog – is known for, but this rabid canine isn’t that crazy after all. In fact, it’s pretty safe to assume this iconic co-vocalist of the legendary Cypress Hill is down with reality on both personal and professional levels. With the release of his first solo full-length album, a brand new Cypress record... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7296 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7296 I will state right here, unequivocally, that there is none better than Mojo Webb.  When it comes to guitar slingin’, Mississippi saxophone blowin’ and blues hollerin’, the Brisbane-based Webb is at the top of the pile and I don’t care what you say for this is a fact my friends, and if you’ve not had the pleasure, then I suggest you put your ear to the ground and feel the vibrations... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7295 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7295 The rise of Canadian nu-wave rock n’ roll band, Metric, has been slow and steady. Like the tortoise, beating the hare to the finish line, Metric have stuck to their guns and over a ten year period, have slowly but surely cemented their place in the Canadian music scene (and increasingly, the world scene) as a band worth waiting for. Here in 2009 then, we see them at their highest point yet with the release of their fourth record,... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7294 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7294 Katy Steele of Little Birdy has been known to get her feathers in a ruffle. She comes from the incestuous band breeding ground of Perth, with her brother Luke playing in The Sleepy Jackson, and now also the infamous MGMT-sound-stealers Empire of the Sun. She has got a bit nasty in the past about her comparisons as ‘Luke Steele’s sister’, so it was an hypocritically odd choice, and perhaps a limelight-stealing... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7293 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7293 Southern California's rap-rock group the Kottonmouth Kings have been purveying an eclectic mix of punk rock and hip-hop – dubbed rip-hop – for over a decade in the underground music scene. The Kings themselves are most noted, or perhaps infamous, for their provocative visual and lyrical emphasis on the decriminalization of marijuana, but co-vocalist Brad "Daddy X" Xavier said their stance on marijuana... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7292 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7292 DJ tyDi is a young man with the world at his feet. At just 21, he has been voted Australia’s #1 DJ, had tracks signed to Armin Van Buuren’s Armada record label, been featured by Marcus Schulz on several international compilations and performed all over the world as part of the Trance Energy tour. Now, after three years in the making, the Brisbane DJ’s musical talents and producing prowess have culminated in the... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7291 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7291 It seems the biggest thing on everyone’s mind lately is money. Economic crisis this, recession that, but more importantly, what you’re going to spend your $900 stimulus package on. Spare a thought for those who aren’t entitled to K-Rudd’s gift though. After all, it’s hard to claim a tax return when your income comes from busking and selling CDs. Lead singer of Bonjah, Glenn... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7290 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7290 At my campsite just outside of Byron Bay, I sit and chat on the phone with Kevin Mitchell, Jebediah frontman and the man behind the alter-ego, Bob Evans. Around me, the sounds of the bush are rife, scrub turkeys wander around my tent and a tarp is being erected over my head – the tap of a hammer on steel pegs reminding me how far from the suburbs I truly am. Mitchell is in the same place – not literally but figuratively,... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7289 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7289 It’s a tricky thing, post-rock. Every artist that churns out anything half-decent is instantly slapped on with an array of fuck-off tags that usually include ridiculous claims; “Next Radiohead” this, “Jeff Buckley” that. Wading through the excess crap is no easy task, but as Saffron Edan discovers, Melbourne’s Blackchords are the real deal – no spin. Their affable... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7287 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7287 He’s played alongside Robert Forster and Grant McLennan, recorded albums and toured with The Go-Betweens, Custard and The Titanics, but now Glenn Thompson has struck out on his own. Under the guise ‘Beachfield’, Glenn has written and recorded his debut solo LP, Brighton Bothways, an album seven years in the making. Before he left for a weekend countryside retreat, I caught up with Glenn to find out more about... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7286 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7286 Shannon aka Ozi Batla is a pretty mellow guy when you talk to him one on one. It’s hard to believe that such a humble guy off-stage has the ability to command an audience so effectively with his words on stage. Today The Herd front man talks about his other project Astronomy Class, their upcoming album, tour and the big happy hip-hop family that helped to create it. By Vivienne Hill. It seems that everyone in Australian hip-hop... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5731 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5731 Standing on the foreshore with the wind whipping through your hair and dark clouds filling the horizon, the feeling is of terrified excitement, for far out to sea, only just visible to the human eye, black shapes ride the waves, cutting swathes of thick, razor edged sonic deluge, coming closer and closer with each powerful gust – The Armada is riding in. The man at the helm is Jeff Martin, frontman for seminal ‘90s eastern... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5278 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5278 So what do heavy metal heroes Trivium do in their time off? Sex, drugs and rock n’ roll? Nope, they renovate. I caught up with guitarist Corey Beaulieu on a brief break in their U.S. touring schedule to see what they’re getting up to before they hit our shores next month. By Nick Harvey. “We’ve had a few weeks off, just hanging out tryin’ to soak in the time off before we head back out for... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7274 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7274 Adelaide's favourite prog-rockers Wolf & Cub are touring their new album 'Science & Sorcery' across the nation over winter. They've got former Sunny Coaster's The Scare backing them up and will be playing The Sound Lounge at Currumbin on July 2, The Zoo on the 3rd, Woombye Pub on the 4th and The Great Northern in Byron on the 5th. http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7228 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7228 Eskimo Joe have announced a series of tour dates throughout Queensland this August. As part of their nationwide 'Inshalla' tour, Eskimo Joe will be playing the Riverstage on August 22, Bundaberg on the 24th, then Gladstone, Rockhampton, Mackay, Cairns and Townsville. For more info hit www.liveinqld.com. http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7223 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7223 The huge auditorium was packed with people sitting, slowly swaying about, and rows of people bopping enthusiastically along to the instantly infectious charm of Eric Hutchinson. Clad in a smart yet playful suit and tie, his charisma shone through almost as quickly as his musical flair. Yes, he was slightly corny in his delivery, but each of his tunes was so joyous, you couldn’t help but be lifted by the music. Plus, Hutchinson had... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7222 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7222 Dweezil, son of notoriously quick-witted and cynical composer Francis Vincent Zappa, again brought his hardened troupe of music boffins to dazzle Australian crowds. Playing a cross section of Frank’s music (leaning heavily towards the rock selections, unfortunately), Zappa Plays Zappa utilised a veritable A-Z of musical instruments; everything from marimba and xylophone to keyboards, sax and djembe. This crack team of musos could... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7221 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7221 Splendour In The Grass has annouced the first lineup of bands for its 2009 show, confirming the rumour that the Flaming Lips will be on the bill. Alongside Wayne Coyne and his merry men will be Bloc Party, Jane's Addiction, MGMT, Midnight Juggernauts, HIlltop Hoods and heaps more. Stay tuned for more details. http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7171 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7171 Talk about a double-header - Bad Religion and NOFX have announced a joint tour all through Australia. The grand old boys of punk will be taking to the Riverstage on October 2. Something tells me this one will sell fast... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7168 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7168 Mark Lanegan and Greg Dulli have let it slip that they'll be playing this year's Splendour in the Grass as part of their An Evening With tour. Stay tuned for more details and confirmation from the Splendour organisers. http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7140 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7140 The Butterfly Effect have announced a homecoming tour of Australia, after playing a series of shows across Europe in early 2009. The boys will be playing The Tivoli on July 10 before jagging off around the country and finishing up in Darwin. http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7119 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7119 There aren’t a great number of bands out there who are able boast the fact they can live up to their names, but the DJ-free, truly live hip-hop experience of True Live is one such entity that does so and then some.  Over the past six or so years, this five-piece rhythm and beats group have taken it to the people, their hip-hop ethos a base for the more jazz oriented sounds they bring out from their instruments, a rhythm... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7118 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7118 In a genre so rooted in tradition, Melbourne funk outfit The Bamboos are keeping it fresh and innovative thanks to the many talents of guitarist and band leader Lance Ferguson. Ever since their 2001 breakout single Eel Oil/Blackfoot, the eight-piece went on to receive international acclaim from the likes of Jazzanova, Mr Scruff and Patrick Forge, soon after landing distribution deals with both the U.S.-based Kay-Dee Records and... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7117 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7117 Last year’s triple j hit, The Festival Song brought Pez to our attention, and now the inaugural Ripe Noosa Festival is set to solidify him as Melbourne underground rap’s best-kept secret. By Nina Bertok. A relative unknown up until the release of his debut album, A Mind Of My Own, the emcee describes himself as something of a lone wolf when it comes to his craft. “To be honest, I’ve been a bit... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7116 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7116 Now here my friends, is an entity unto itself – Mindless Self Indulgence, a pastime we all indulge in, but a band that specialises in such a practice?  Ha, what a novel idea. But don’t take these four cats at face value – or perhaps you should – for they’re likely to explode and splatter the walls with whatever creative medium bursts forth first, a veritable mishmash of ideas... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7115 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7115 The last time I spoke to Perth based quartet, the Harlequin League, I spent a good deal of the time debating with frontman, Seb Astone, as to where I’d pigeonhole his band, as music writers are prone to do.  Angling for some sort of electro/post punk/rock hybrid, Astone was having none of it, preferring the tag, “eclectic rock …with ambient undertones”.  Fair enough, I mean, it is... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7114 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7114 While their foray into spacious, over-blown rock suited them to the ground, Eskimo Joe are getting back to basics on album number four. Recorded in Byron Bay with legendary producer Gil Norton, Inshalla marks the band in a very happy place. Nick Milligan spoke to guitarist Stu MacLeod. If you were one of the many record buyers that sent Eskimo Joe’s third studio album Black Fingernails, Red Wine, to four times platinum, then... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7113 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7113 Upon discovering Dub Side of the Moon, you’d be forgiven for thinking that such a perfectly crafted reggae interpretation of the classic Pink Floyd album could only be a divine creation of Jah himself. With further investigation, you’d find that it’s actually the work of a mere mortal and not a gift from the heavens. MK ULTRA caught up with the producer and composer behind the Easy Star All-Stars and arguably... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7112 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7112 Being a long time fan of Zappa muzak, it was bemusing to place a call to Dweezil and be diverted to home voicemail. Big let down. The line was entertained by a kooky recording of his daughter singing what sounded like a Robert Plant vocal solo.  Cute as a button, but not on the money.  With persistence, the man himself was tracked down at a recording studio in south LA.  He’s finishing up some pre-tour... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7111 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7111 While their debut album, A Revelation For Despair painted a gloomy picture of disappointments and heartbreak, Behind Crimson Eyes are back in 2009 with a self-titled sophomore beast that’s more a re-introduction to the band than a mere comeback. And as vocalist Josh Stuart explains, it’s one “more intelligent and better thought-out”. By Nina Bertok. “For a much more personal look at us as... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7110 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7110 I’m sure that a lot of you are thinking what I’m thinking: What the hell is an ‘impala’ and why is it ‘tame’? As Kevin Parker, frontman for Perth psychedelic band Tame Impala explains to Georgia Frances King, “An impala is an African animal with horns, and it’s tame because, umm... well... not for any particular reason really, but I guess that it’s... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7109 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7109 Norway’s masters of late night dream-pop have caught the Peter Pan syndrome with latest effort Junior: a bouncy, synth-drenched dance ode to youth. Gratifying hooks, deep trance layering and a-list guest vocalists have made the duo’s third release an instant hit with fans – and partner album Senior is enticingly close.  Saffron Edan phoned Torbjørn Brundtland on a snowy Scandinavian... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7108 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7108 All they wanted was to hear their song on the radio, but when triple j picked up Set It Right late last year, Brisbane newcomers Hungry Kids of Hungary were in for a hell of a lot more than they anticipated. By Nina Bertok As guitarist/vocalist Dean McGrath summarises, “The last six months have been absolutely crazy, none of us could have ever predicted what an insane ride this was going to be”. As the Gold Coast... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7107 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7107 It’s an hour and a half until his soundcheck, but Dan Deacon is planted face-down, ill in bed. The Brisbane CBD bustles in peak hour outside the hotel, and the floating Cactus next to me is beginning to look a little fucking silly.  But, for all involved, it’s as simple as this: the show must go on. By Adam Baidawi. For the uninitiated, Dan Deacon is one of indie-dance’s very best performers... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7105 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7105 After sorting out a crazy and arduous ticket mix-up, I passed through the entry gates of Doomben Racecourse. Though entering a little later than I would have liked, my dancing shoes were on and I was ready to boogie. Seeing that the setup was an improvement on that of Global Gathering’s, Future Music promised to deliver a night of great sensations. While it’s quite peculiar having escalators at a festival, a pleasant... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7104 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7104 Wu Tang Clan: Live At Montreux Jazz Festival Eagle Eye (SOHO RECORDS) 9/10 Throw your “W’s” in the sky Wu fans, the Shaolin stallions are back, playing at the prestigious Montreux Jazz festival in Switzerland, and quite simply, it is a sight to behold. Not only is the full clan performing (minus one ODB), but the clarity of performance, the level of energy the clan bring, as well as the skillful editing,... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7103 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7103 Nashville Pussy From Hell to Texas (SPV/RIOT) 4/10 One can hardly expect a band called Nashville Pussy to reinvent the wheel, but for a few years these guys were one hell of psychobilly group. Back then, they backed up their wild outlaw image with some catchy songs and ballsy riffs which earned them quite the fan base. Now, with the release of From Hell to Texas, the only outrageous thing that remains in the mix is the band name.... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7102 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7102 Justin Townes Earle Midnight at the Movies 8/10 With his second record, Midnight At The Movies, Justin Townes Earle treads a tricky path.  Firstly, his debut, The Good Life, was lauded across the land as the work of a serious star in the making – that’s gotta put the pressure on when it comes to making your follow-up.  Secondly, Earle is of course the son of the legendary Steve Earle, and so that... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7101 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7101 God Forbid Earthsblood (CENTURY/STOMP) 8/10 In a genre saturated with fleetingly popular niches, it’s always refreshing to hear an album of pure straight-out metal. That is just what God Forbid has been making for 10 years, and Earthsblood is possibly their best yet. Brilliantly tight guitar work from the Coyle brothers, explosive drumming, and the perfect mix of growled/sung vocals are just part of the charm. The... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7100 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7100 Extreme Noise Terror Law of Retaliation (OSMOSE PRODUCTIONS/MIM) 7/10 It’s easy to be skeptical of a long-running band with only two original members, especially when they’re the vocalists. Such personnel changes noticeably shift the sound of a group in most cases, but one listen to Law of Retaliation takes you right back to these UK punk/grind mainstay’s heydays. This material could’ve easily... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7099 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7099 DJ Koze Reincarnations - The Remix Chapter 2001 - 2009 (GET PHYSICAL/INERTIA) 7/10 Hot on the heels of some wicked 2008 tunage, Get Physical are back in fine form with this collection of remixes from German DJ Koze. He opens with an appropriately vocoded monologue (if you’re not familiar with his work, you’ll soon realise that he loves a little vocoder action) accompanied by some lush, sweeping pads. All of this... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7097 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7097 British India God Is Dead, Meet the Kids EP (FLASHPOINT/SHOCK) 6/10 Though having a soft spot for indie-rock, British India is one bandwagon that I haven’t been able to jump on. Their sound is flat and strained, and I feel that lead singer Declan Melia relies too much on his genre’s Sex Pistols stereotype, rather than committing musically to the melodies they have produced. They don’t have the jumpy vibe... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7096 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7096 Pete Doherty Grace/Wastelands (EMI) 8.5/10 It may have taken until his 30th birthday, but Brit-pop’s most unknowable urchin has finally come of age. To this point, he’s been hailed an enigmatic, spontaneous artist of a few half-born, drug-riddled garage limericks (albeit rather pretty ones). For those who have grown deeply impatient with this surface-level foolery, take a deep breath: Grace/Wastelands is an opus of... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7095 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7095 Mastodon Crack the Skye Warner 9.5/10 With fire, water and earth successfully covered on previous outings, Mastodon have chosen to explore the fifth element, ether, on their fourth album, Crack the Skye. In doing so, the Atlanta four-piece have transformed from a primal, brutish metal beast into a gracious prog-rock spectre. Until now, Mastodon had been guilty of losing listeners in a blizzard of musical wizardry. Crack the Skye... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7094 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7094 Harlequin League I Don’t Do Friends EP Good Cop Bad Cop/Inertia 8/10 Play through this offering from the Perth four-piece and I guarantee you one thing: you’ll be left with the same dissatisfaction as devoting fifteen minutes to sensual foreplay and only lasting one minute when the pants are off and you want to get your freak on. Despite its orgasm-reaching brilliance, it’s just too damn short. Granted it is... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7152 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7152 For a band that disappeared from the music scene for quite a while, you would expect The Fray to draw just a small bunch to The Tivoli on a fine Saturday night. Arriving at the venue however, it was (pleasantly) surprising to see a crowd of at least 300 lining the streets of Fortitude Valley, awaiting the opening of doors. Support for the night was delivered in the form of two acts; firstly an acoustic set by Holly Lovell, whose time... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7035 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=7035 The Dø’s album ‘A Mouthful’ would be best described as delightfully random – and the live show certainly followed suit. With the drummer ensconced in some sort of shower screen affair with a giant shower-rose structure above him adorned with cookware, it was hardly a run of the mill set. Singer Olivia had the crowd in the palm of her gorgeous hand as she nailed the intricate vocals, while... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6967 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6967 Splendour in the Grass organisers have announced the dates for this year's festival, and confirmed that the event will be held at Belongil Fields again. Despite rumours that the festival would move to a new site at Yelgun this year, Splendour will once again be held at Belongil. Rumours around potential artists are numerous, but The Flaming Lips and Aphex Twin are strongly anticipated. http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6962 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6962 In the lead-up to the debut of the Sunshine Coast’s new flagship music event, the Ripe Noosa, the finest young musical talent from the Sunshine Coast have come together to compete for a slot on the bill. The winners will win a spot at Ripe Festival Noosa - which takes place at the House With No Steps, Doonan (10mons fro Noosa) on Saturday May 3.   The Ripe Noosa Festival Band comp wrapped up last Friday at the Sands... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6953 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6953 Waifish songstress Lisa Mitchell will be touring the country to prepare the ground for the release of her debut album in July. Having broken into the indie scene with singles like 'Neapolitan Dream' and following her signing an international deal with RCA/Sony it's certainly a big time for the little girl from Albury. Lisa is playing Thursday 23rd April at the Sound Lounge in Currumbin,  Friday 24th April at Bon Amici in Toowoomba... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6952 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6952 Death Cab For Cutie can't stay out of the spotlight at the moment. After their second tour of Australia in a year they've announced they're releasing a new EP 'The Open Door' digitally on April 4 and physically on May 1. The songs didn't make it onto their latest LP 'Narrow Stairs' but the boys insist they're not cast-offs, they just need their own home... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6954 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6954 The Art of Mother Earth iis keeping the dance nights coming to Maleny with two great acts to perform this Friday 27th March. The now monthly Dance Hall Night at the Maleny Community Centre on the last Friday of the month will feature two Gold Coast Dance bands. A French Butler called Smith and Loustar & the Secret Assassins are two of Australia's up and coming dance acts with a musical range covering Gypsy,Latin, Funk , Soul , Jazz... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6886 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6886 Little Birdy are hitting the road with their new album 'Confetti', taking it around the country throughout May, kicking off with Groovin' the Moo in Townsville on the 2nd. They're playing the Hi-Fi in Brisbane on the 6th after playing the Coolie Hotel on the 3rd. http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6875 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6875 Andrew Morris is desperately trying to beat the pending hailstorm home. But before he does he kindly spares a few seconds to divulge the details of his new album to Vivienne Hill before the sky falls around him. Needs and Wants is the fourth offering from the Brisbane artist. The album, written on piano was a new experience for Andrew. “I felt like I wanted to do something different. So I set myself sort of a... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6870 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6870 Usually associated with hockey fanatics and icy temperatures, Canada is also about to become known for one of its biggest alternative rock bands by the time The Stills are done touring Australia. And while we’re counting down the days to the band’s March bill with the mighty Kings Of Leon, The Stills’ guitarist Dave Hamlin looks forward to checking out quality Australian wines – and our deadly insects.... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6869 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6869 Before the Soundwave Festival kicked off its show in Brisbane, I sat down and had a chat with the incredibly friendly Josh Bradford, guitarist of Silverstein about topping the independent charts, their label, and the problems lily-white Canadians face when it comes to playing shows in hot climates. By Rob Schlegel First off, in a few hours you’ll be onstage at Soundwave – excited? Very Excited! This is our fourth... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6868 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6868 There must be something in the water over in Montreal. The past few years have seen the rise-and-rise of the city’s rich, layered indie rock sound, lead by the likes of Arcade Fire and We Are Wolves. But, with their debut LP, three-piece francophiles Plants and Animals have shown that they have the quirky orchestral chops to keep right up.  Adam Baidawi had a quick chat with frontman, Warren Spicer. Here in Australia... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6867 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6867 With a career spanning over three decades, Marky Ramone is best known as the long-time drummer for punk rock legends, The Ramones – the first punk band to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. He’s also played Monty Burns’ birthday party in an episode of The Simpsons, hosts a radio show on Sirius XM Satellite Radio, has a clothing line coming out with Tommy Hilfiger, and is touring with his new band,... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6866 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6866 They have sung about missing lungs and bucket bongs, poured custard over and smashed cakes in the faces of a number of internationally renowned frontmen – in fact, they take great pride in their efforts to sabotage the equipment of bands such as Grinspoon and The Living End while on tour – all whilst making names for themselves on national radio. You guessed it, it’s Sydney’s very own Frenzal Rhomb, and... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6865 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6865 Okay – throw out your old perceptions of Evermore. Go on, put them into a box. Throw them in the trash. Alternatively, you could burn them, give them to your grandma or maybe just send them on a holiday. Whatever you do, just make some room in your little brains for the new Evermore. By Vivienne Hill Well, they aren’t entirely new, but just modified a little with a shiny, innovative album, a changed image and a freshly... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6864 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6864 What do David Bowie, Kevin Rudd and The Clash have in common? They’re all on End of Fashion guitarist Rodney Aravena’s mind. With an upcoming tour and album Book of Lies, End of Fashion are back on the radar – and from what Rodney says, they’re here to rock. By Nick Harvey After writing, rehearsing, perfecting and recording their new album, End of Fashion are keen to show off their hard work.... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6863 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6863 Almost four years in the making, Coalition Crew’s brand new, double-disc opus Known Unknowns is about to remind us all over again why this Brisbane trio has been at the forefront of Aussie hip-hop since 2004. And as producer Toxic Al [aka Warren Grieves] confirms, the creative juices have certainly been flowing. By Nina Bertok. “We’ve been working on this album for quite an extended period of time and... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6862 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6862 For almost 20 years, Cannibal Corpse kept fans and censors on their toes with extremely graphic artwork and morbid tales of ejaculating blood, fornicating with kitchen utensils and shredding humans. Then, in 2006, something changed. That something was Kill. No horrifying artwork, no gore-obsessed title, Kill was all about the music. Album number 11, Evisceration Plague, continues this trend. By Gav Britton It’s post-gig in... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6861 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6861 It’s a sticky Sunday afternoon in Texas, and three year old Dorian Kweller is on Youtube with dad, Ben, watching the same video over and over. “He is obsessed with Guns ‘n Roses, man. There’s a live clip of Welcome to the Jungle from like, 1988 where they’re at the Ritz in New York City – it’s fucking awesome and he loves it.” By Adam Baidawi. But, does... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6860 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6860 Art is like a muscle – continue to develop it and it will remain rock-solid for decades, according to Cypress Hill head honcho, B-Real. And who would know better than the legendary West Coast rapper who is about to drop his first ever solo effort? By Nina Bertok “I got no time to sit on my hands,” he firmly states. “This record just came at a right time for me after Cypress Hill had so many things... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=4899 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=4899 Before the hip bars and boutique tapas joints moved in, the inner-city Melbourne enclave of Windsor was home to old banks, Jewish food marts, dirt cheap op-shops and grunge-era venues such as such the Highbridge (now the Prahran Hotel), the colourful Railway front bar and of course, the bluesy Windsor Castle. By Steve Tauschke But while the price of a pot and a pair of flared cords may have tripled over the years in the ‘burb... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=4896 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=4896 Having built their rock-solid reputation on relentless touring since 2000, it’s only natural that ARIA-Award-winning Aussie hip-hoppers Bliss ‘N Eso figured it was time to put on film what they’re best known for – blowing up crowds in a live setting. By Nina Bertok While it was their 2008 masterpiece Flying Colours that took out the Best Urban Release category at the Australian music... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=4058 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=4058 There have been many famous historical musical anagrams : Elvis = Lives, Bob Dylan = Bland Boy, Cyndi Lauper = Lunacy Pride, Luciano Pavarotti = Put on a ravioli act, Axl Rose = Oral Sex, Justin Timberlake = I’m a jerk but listen, and Peter Andre = A pretender. But do you recognise these ones? Jam, Ole!, Cub Cute Noon and my favourite, Basic Poison? You may know them better as Joel Ma, Count Bounce and Paso Bionics - three of the... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6840 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6840 The Grates are embarking on their 'Biggest, Longest Adventure' yet this May, on the back of their album 'Teeth Lost, Hearts Won'. The tour kicks off right here in Brisbane on May 1 at the Hi-Fi Bar. http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6839 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6839 The Presets will embark on a national tour through May and June before returning to the studio to follow up their enormously successful album Apocalypso. They're playing the Riverstage on Sunday June 7 with Van She and Architecture in Helsinki. http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6812 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6812 Lukid Foma (Werk Discs) 8.5/10 Bedroom beat morpher, Lukid, follows up his 2007 debut ‘Onadon’ with ‘Foma’ on the well established, and increasingly vital Werk Discs record label. Traversing the landscape of late night sojourns and the moods of a dawn breathing out sun rays, ‘Foma’ has a surprisingly restrained approach in its composition and arrangement that belies an... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6811 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6811 SKRYPTCHA Left To Write (Obese Records) 8/10 I’ve said it many times before and yes I will say it again, the A&R crew at Obese Records really know what they are doing when it comes to signing new artists.  I would even venture to say that Obese Records may become (or already are) Australia’s equivalent to Def Jam Records.  Skryptcha is Obese’s latest recruit to the label and... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6810 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6810 LILY ALLEN It’s Not Me, It’s You (EMI) 8/10 She’s a potty-mouthed Pom with an I-don’t-give-a-f**k attitude. But damn, she belts out a catchy tune. ‘It’s Not Me, It’s You’ is the kind of outspoken, vicarious musical offering the world has come to expect from Lily Allen. A heavy electronic influence is weaved through the whole album, but the core of each... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6809 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6809 DAN AUERBACH Keep It Hid Warner/Nonesuch 8/10 Debut solo release for well seasoned musician and one half of The Black Keys, Dan Auerbach sets you out on a multi-paletted journey that serves many a tasty morsel of musical colours and textures of rock n’ roll yore. Oh oh oh 'A Want Some More!". The timeless opener ‘Trouble Weighs a Ton’ is a truly beautiful blues grass ditty. And if... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6808 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6808 CANNIBAL CORPSE Evisceration Plague (Metal Blade/Stomp) 8/10 Since forming in 1988, Cannibal Corpse have encountered more ups and downs than a Bangkok brothel. After countless line-up changes, including the potentially career-ending departure of inimitable vocalist Chris Barnes in 1995, it’s hard to believe that, 14 years on, the band’s 11th album is one of the most anticipated death metal releases of 2009. The... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6807 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6807 BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN Working on a Dream (Columbia) 6/10 In many ways this is a pivotal album for The Boss; mere months away from turning sixty, he’s released a new album hot on the heels of his previous work ‘Magic’.  Not quite falling in line with the pop sensibilities of ‘Magic’, ‘Working on a Dream’ is definitely a rock album, and one that at times reminds... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6806 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6806 BOB LOG III My Shit is Perfect Bloat Records 7/10 Masked bluesman Bob Log III has always been something of an enigmatic figure, and if you’re looking for further examples of this then his brand-spanking new album ‘My Shit is Perfect’ doesn’t disappoint. His lo-fi one-man-band aesthetic is surprisingly intriguing and despite delivering authentic swampy blues, there are enough idiosyncrasies to... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6805 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6805 BEN LEE The Rebirth of Venus (Dew Process) 6.5/10 Ben Lee is one unique musician. His lyrics are either too obscure to make sense, or they are injected with one too many lame lines. While ‘Awake is the New Sleep’ was relatively balanced in its pop intentions, ‘The Rebirth of Venus’ can’t quite decide which direction it wants to head. Lee’s need to justify pop as nothing but a... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6804 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6804 JOHN FRUSCIANTE The Empyrean (Record Collection) (8/10) John Frusciante’s solo albums have never quite seemed to appeal to the wider audience and only in recent times have they become more commercially friendly. From his heroin infused days of ‘Niandra Lades’ (1994) through to his latest, ‘The Empyrean’, there is a vast difference in appeal. Though in almost all of his solo albums he... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6796 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6796 The pit at Fall Out Boy's Brisbane show was populated by male rock fans (fresh from pre-concert beers) and viciously dedicated teenage girls. The mix made for an aggressive crowd, and yet the rate of security-aided lift-outs from the crush was comparatively low. The reason for this is very simple: everybody was having way too much fun to leave. Fall Out Boy are a band at the top of the world right now. They played at President Obama's... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6785 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6785 Hip hop pioneers De La Soul have announced a series of club dates to coincide with their trip to Australia for the Groovin' The Moo festival dates in May. The Brisbane date is yet to be confirmed but at this stage they're scheduled to play the Brisbane Big Top on Sunday May 3. http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6710 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6710 Between the hours of 11am and 10pm on Saturday, February 21, grannies all over the state were walking the streets confidently, knowing Queensland’s entire black t-shirt-wearing community were tucked safely behind the RNA Showground walls for the second annual Soundwave. Last year’s 40-degree heat was replaced with threatening skies, a new venue and a noticeably better line-up, particularly for the metalheads. While the... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6705 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6705 To raise money to support Victoria's bushfire victims, two very special benefit concerts will be held in Sydney and Melbourne on March 14. Sound Relief will come to the Sydney Cricket Ground and the Melbourne Cricket Ground, with Coldplay playing the Sydney show and Kings Of Leon in Melbourne. All the profits will go to the Red Cross Victorian Bushfire Appeal. For more info go to www.soundrelief.com.au. http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6794 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6794 Keeping true to its name, GV09 was a stellar day of fantastic performances both on and off-stage. Marred only by poor weather, little could be done to bring the crowds spirit down; if anything the foot-deep mud and rain added to the entertainment. After sneaking our way through security we were soon greeted by what looked like the entire WW2 German dog-patrol. Taking our lead from the recent events in the news we suddenly found ourselves... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6684 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6684 Powderfinger have suspended the writing of their new album to join The Grates, Robert Forster, The John Steel Singers, The Boat People and Dan Parsons on stage at The Tivoli on March 6 for 'Fire and Flood'. Fire and Flood is set to show support, build morale and raise funds for the affected communities of north Queensland and Victoria. Profits raised will be donated evenly across The Red Cross Victorian Bushfire Appeal and The Queensland... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6657 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6657 Following the release of her latest album 'It's Not Me, It's You', Lily Allen is planning an east coast tour of Australia, stopping in at the Tivoli on June 8. http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6641 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6641 The Yeah Yeah Yeahs are releasing a new album this April to follow 2006's 'Show Your Bones'. 'It's Blitz!' is apparently a more experimental sound from the New York trio, and was produced by TV On The Radio's Dave Sitek who did their last two albums as well as Nick Launay, who recently worked with Arcade Fire. It's Blitz! is out on April 10, but the first single will be hitting the airwaves next week. http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6624 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6624 Melbourne's iconic Hi-Fi Bar is opening a new venue in West End, and will open with a free show from The Drones. The doors and Drones open on Wednesday April 28. Ratatat will be playing the following Saturday, with Little Birdy confirmed as well - great news for the Brissie music scene. For more info check out the Hi-Fi's website here. http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6605 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6605 Unnatural is probably the most succinct way to describe the Met as a live venue, not helped by the apparent absence of a lighting operator. DZ played the majority of their set submerged in an static, opaque purple light that made it almost impossible to make out Simon and Shane onstage. The crowd gathered steadily through their set, filling out nicely as DZ worked their way towards their now customary covers of Vengaboys and Daft Punk.... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6606 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6606 Who Made Who are a band that defies all logic – writing the words disco and funk in a review that’s overwhelmingly positive feels so wrong, but in this case is entirely accurate. There’s something about the way the three Danes go about the business of getting a crowd going that’s just so damn… agreeable. I don’t know if it’s the accents, the outfits or the fat drummer... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6543 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6543 Californian dilettante Zach Condon, better known as Beirut, has had his latest EP 'March of the Zapotec' leaked weeks before its scheduled release date. Where his previous works have focused on European themes, this recording takes a trip down south Mexico way. http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6540 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6540 Clint Eastwood, Christopher Carley, Bee Vang, Brian Howe, Geraldine Hughes, Brian Haley 4 out of 5 stars When it was initially announced, there was an inexplicable pall of concealment when it came to the plot for Clint Eastwood’s new film – so much so that everyone just assumed it must be the long-awaited final instalment in the legendary actor’s ‘Dirty Harry’ series. And though that... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6539 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6539 After landing back in Australia after a long flight from the U.S. one would assume the first thing you would do is have a rather large nap.  Not Donna Simpson of The Waifs, fighting jetlag, she jumps straight into rehearsal for the bands upcoming tour.  Jen Anderson caught up with Donna as the band toy with a reggae vibe in a rehearsal room in Fremantle. So you guys are encouraging fans to jump on the internet to choose... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6538 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6538 This February, Australians are in for a big treat. Hip-hop icon, A Tribe Called Quest member and ‘humble’ innovator Q-Tip is coming Down Under for the first time as part of the Good Vibrations Festival tour. I recently had a chance to chat with Q-Tip about past collaborations, his last album and of course cooking. By Kleen If you haven’t heard of Q-Tip I’m sure you’re familiar with those... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6537 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6537 Some ‘musicians’ write about bling. Some write about cars and booty. Some even write about ping pong. Others like to add a little substance to their music. Propagandhi definitely fall into the latter category. Ever since 1986, these Canadian punk/hardcore legends have been using their craft to virulently stand up for animal and human rights, challenging their listeners to question authority and giving them an avenue to... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6536 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6536 It is a new year and a whole set of new adventures for musician songwriter Mia Dyson. The Victorian has just released her new single ‘You & Me’, is starting a huge national tour next month, and is set to take off on “the big OS trip”. By NicolaK Known for her southern-tinged, blues rock, Mia, 27, is planning to relocate to the US in late March with her bass player, manager and boyfriend.... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6535 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6535 Marco V is a DJ that refuses to follow trends and continues to forge a genre defying path with his own productions. As much techno as trance, driving house as hard dance, his sets are a journey through almost every style imaginable. If you've yet to experience one of his sets, strap on your dancing shoe's because he'll be unleashing one of his world renowned sets at a festival near you. MK Ultra chats to Marco ahead of his Australian tour and... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6534 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6534 Maetrik has always searched for the future of electronic dance. Not confined by styles or genre rules, he treads confidently through a fickle industry, paving a path of his own. Richard Buck fired some questions at the techno innovator in anticipation of his upcoming performance at Earth Freq.  Your Indexed EP as Mariel Ito on Modern Love was killer! It seems to have a crunchier more leftfield oriented sound than your Maetrik... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6533 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6533 Credited with a degree in psychology, Ben Weinman is not your average punk-rock guy. The 33-year-old founding guitarist with New Jersey-based math-rock quintet Dillinger Escape Plan believes his decade as a touring musician has been a lesson in the workings of the human psyche. “I can say that playing in a band is a huge psychological experiment,” he reasons on the phone from the US. “Dealing with five... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6532 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6532 Diesel is back on the tour trail promoting his eighth studio album ‘Days like These’. Tsunami’s newest recruit Bibi Baker-Prideaux conducted her first ever interview with the Aussie music legend discovering a down-to-earth, up-to-date muso still passionate after all these years. Despite nearly 20 years performing Diesel admits that connecting with his audience is still special. “You can feel the... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6531 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6531 The duo that is Basement Jaxx has been relatively quiet for the last few years. Since the release of their fourth album ‘Crazy Itch Radio’ in 2006 the Brixton lads have been keeping a low profile, working in the studio on new recordings. Rumours have been flying around for months as to who would be appearing on the house duo’s fifth release – and finally, as they prepare to release it, Felix Buxton... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6530 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6530 Armored Saint are often relegated to a back-burner in the history of American heavy metal, seen as a pre-Anthrax project for vocalist John Bush. But now these veterans are touring to Oz to show us how even the death of a forming member hasn’t slowed them down. Rob S. spoke with bassist Joey Vera. You’re coming out to Australia with Death Angel, and this is the first Australian tour for both bands. Is the excitement... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6529 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6529 By Steve Tauschke Writing a new chapter in a career now reborn, Seattle’s uber-grunge veterans Alice In Chains return to Australia next month for their first shows since their classic Dirt tour in 1993. “You can never replace a guy like Layne, there’s no intention here of trying to do that - what we’re trying to do is to move on and figure out where we stand.” Ruminating on the 2002... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6528 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6528 Music is something that is unpredictable, some might even say intangible but as far as music is concerned in this country there is always one truth you can count on: Melbourne will continue to unleash exciting and talented acts and keep the ball rolling forward. One of those Melbourne bands flying the flag high, not just here but all over the world is A Death in the Family. Guitarist/vocalist Atom takes some time out to chat to Tim Chapman... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6525 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6525 DVD - RAGE Most Chosen (ABC/Universal) 7/10 How many times have you stumbled in at some ridiculous hour only to discover that your beloved Rage is not on the television to pass out to? Well never fear because the ultimate midnight DVD is here. (Just make sure you are sober enough to work the DVD player when you arrive home.) The ABC have compiled the most chosen video clips of all time into a stunning little DVD to keep you company as... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6524 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6524 AUTECHRE Quaristice Digital Exclusive Warp Records 9/10 In a surprisingly snide gesture, British electronic alchemists Autechre have made their download-only EP ‘Quaristice Digital Exclusive’ available solely on iTunes Japan. This is perhaps a mere token reward for Japan’s consistent support of their notoriously difficult oeuvre, as the duo would have been fully aware that it would be up on file sharing... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6523 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6523 ZION-I The Take Over (Gold Dust) 8/10 After a three year hiatus Oakland duo MC Zumbi and DJ AmpLive return with their sixth studio album ‘The Take Over’, picking up right where they left off on 2006’s slept on but critically acclaimed ‘Heroes in the City of Dope’. AmpLive’s production style on ‘The Take Over’ is truly unique, seamlessly blending jungle,... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6522 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6522 WISH FOR WINGS Afterlife (Skull & Bones) (3/10) Listening to this record gives one the same feeling you’d get from digging up a time capsule. Thing is, instead of said capsule being thirty years old and re-discovering something awesome by unearthing it, the capsule was buried a mere three years ago and it serves only as a reminder of how much better things have gotten since. In a perfect world this album would have... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6521 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6521 VARIOUS ARTISTS 100% Dynamite (Soul Jazz Records) (7/10) The legendary Soul Jazz records have dedicated themselves to exposing and documenting hybrid fusions of Hispanic, Latin, African, Jamaican, and basically all and every type of non Caucasian music from without and within the ghettos since the late 70’s. They possess the rare skill of being able to present compilations that are not only enjoyable, but have a quality... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6520 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6520 TRAP THEM Seizures In Barren Praise (Deathwish) (8/10) If you can imagine what Entombed would sound like if they decided to cut their hair and start playing d-beat hardcore, you’d be close to the sound Trap Them sports on this, their second full-length record. Hell, I was surprised to learn these guys aren’t Swedes – they play this style really well and it comes off sounding totally authentic. To say this... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6519 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6519 TOM GABEL Heart Burns (Resist) (7/10) After hearing Gabel’s voice paired with slick Butch Vig production on Against Me!’s ‘New Wave’, it’s nice to hear him at the helm of a ramshackle affair such as this. The format is as simple as the music presented: Tom on guitar and vocals and a drum machine, and with only these tools on hand he’s churned out some of his best songs. The... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6518 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6518 THE PAPER AND THE PLANE A Year, Two Months, Sixteen Days and Counting (Starving Kids) (8/10) If you’re yet to see this band after all the shows they’ve played alongside Australia’s and the world’s best alike, where have you been? This CD should serve as an adequate catch-up: infectious, dynamic songs driven by powerful drums and taken to the next level by one of the most emotive voices... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6517 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6517 THE KAISER CHIEFS Live at Elland Road (Liberator Music) 6/10 If there is one thing that’s certain, The Kaiser Chiefs can pull a humungous crowd. Elland Road stadium was jam packed with punters for the filming of this DVD, probably because it was filmed in their hometown of Leeds. The energy provided by the band on their own turf is awe-inspiring with the Chiefs playing a killer set of 18 songs from their three albums. The only... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6516 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6516 THE DEAD Nocturnal Funeral EP (Independent) (7/10) If you like your death metal old-school, raw, and local, chances are you’ve already come across The Dead. Listening to this CD, at times it’s hard to believe that this band has only one guitarist. Not only is there quite a bit of technicality on display here, but The Dead remember what many metal-heads seem to forget: the best old-school death metal was also catchy,... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6515 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6515 THE SUNPILOTS Living Receiver 6.5/10 The Sunpilot’s first independent release, ‘Living Receiver’ embodies the band’s determination, experimentation and love for music. It’s a well crafted album embracing the diverse sounds of both eastern and western cultures. Amidst the guitar driven rock, the album features front man Raj Siva-Rajah’s Sri Lankan heritage, incorporating sitar... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6514 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6514 SUSUMU YOKOTA Mother Lo Recordings 9.5/10 Japan’s mastermind producer Susumu Yokota has long been one of the world’s foremost proponents of quality ambient music. His albums grew in colour from his original releases as a house DJ through such seminal ambient works as 2003’s ‘Laputa’ and now Yokota arguably steps further out of his comfort zone than ever before.... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6512 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6512 RESIN DOGS More or Less (Hydrofunk/MGM) 4/10 12 months after ‘More’, the Resin Dogs return to the scene with an outlandish original concept for their newest release ‘More or Less’ which is a remix version of their previous effort. With no linear notes or indication whatsoever of who or what makes up the collective, first time listeners will find the CD discouraging. The uninspired,... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6511 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6511 RAZORLIGHT Slipway Fires (Mercury) 6.5/10 They’re big in England and even bigger in their head.  The indie-pop four piece, most famous for their 2006 album ‘America’ (and for their collective inflated ego) are back with what is likely to be their biggest commercial success to date. I say this because while Razorlight are often referred to as an ‘indie’ band, this simply may... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6510 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6510 PUNISHER: WAR ZONE Soundtrack (Liberator) 3/10 The only thing that is worse than the last Punisher film is the choices Marvel made when putting together the soundtrack. Once again they’ve compiled a collection of hard-hitting music that seems to be more focused on pleasing adolescent trends than providing an engaging soundtrack to a film. If you thought that Rob Zombie’s music couldn’t get any more... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6509 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6509 NFA Brainwashed (EMI/Rubber Music) 6/10 Former front man for the highly successful 1200 Techniques, Nfa returns with his second solo release the ‘Brainwashed’ EP. The beats on the EP are unquestionably Nfa’s strong point. From the instrumental intro to the reggae tinged ‘Time For’, the production on the EP is a fine balance between hard hitting boom bap drums and melodic synth overtones.... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6508 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6508 MIAMI HORROR Bravado (EMI) 8/10 This Melbourne troop of technological dance crazy kids have taken to their computers and synths to bring something extraordinary to the world of electro. Their debut ‘Bravado’ should be called ‘Bravo’ due to its tendency to muster applause at every listen. Their remix of Pnau’s ‘Embrace’ and their cover of Stardust’s... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6507 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6507 LUDACRIS Theater of the mind Def Jam Records/Disturbing tha Peace 7/10 Ludacris is one of many hip-hop stars that have begun to explore other avenues in the entertainment industry with a notable role in the acclaimed film Crash. It would seem that his new found love for film has transcended into his music with his latest release, ‘Theater of the Mind’ having a consistent movie making theme. The album itself is... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6506 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6506 LEFT TO VANISH Versus The Throne (LifeForce Records) 3.5/10 I have to confess, before picking up this album I had never heard of Philadelphia metal/hardcore act Left to Vanish; and this is probably for a good reason.  This album, their sophomore outing, is generic ‘deathcore’ in both style and substance - with very little else to offer.  Brutally heavy and fast - there is no doubt these boys can... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6505 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6505 LACUNA COIL Visual Karma (Mind, Body, Soul) (Century Media) 8/10 Visual Karma (Body, Mind and Soul) is a dual DVD set of live shows, backstage footage, and interviews with all of the members of Lacuna Coil, and a whole bunch more.  The band’s hauntingly talented vocalist Cristina Scabbia is a charming ‘frontman’ and a drop-dead gorgeous Italian gothic pin-up.  Throughout all the video... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6504 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6504 KREATOR Hordes of Chaos (Steamhammer) (7/10) In America, thrash metal bands seem to gracelessly age – they get old, bald, score endorsement deals and release shit that falls miles short of their seminal work to fan bases that eat it up regardless of merit or lack thereof. Perhaps there’s something in the water in Germany, because on the other side of the pond Teutonic thrash legends Kreator are still releasing... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6503 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6503 JURASSIC 5 J5 Deluxe (re-issue) DECON 8/10 This CD/DVD combo is definitely worth a look swiftly accompanied by a listen. The beautiful thing about a group like this is that not only do they have four worthwhile emcees to support the vocal aspect of hip hop, but they are complimented by two of the most talented, along with diverse, DJ’s you will ever encounter. I have never been a very big fan of J5 but this re-release has... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6501 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6501 GRANDMASTER FLASH The Bridge Strut Records 3/10 Hiphop pioneer, Grandmaster Flash is one of the founders of rap production and turntableism. It is disappointing then to listen to his latest release, ‘The Bridge’, and find it still stays true to the Oldskool feel. Grandmaster has done nothing to reinvent himself and although the album features big name collaborations with Q-tip, Snoop Dogg, Busta Rhymes and KRS... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6500 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6500 GEORGIA POTTER Living the Grey (Independent) 9/10 Recorded at the Gold Coast Griffith University studios by Georgia and her classmates, this album provides a new independent recording standard. Georgia’s debut mini album only leaves the listener wishing for more tracks. This young soulful singer has a reverence and a way of winning the listener over with her heartfelt lyricism and impeccable musical pause. Her debut single... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6499 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6499 FORT KNOX FIVE Radio Free DC (Beat Broker) 7.7/10 Hot on the heels of their recent Summafieldayze appearance, the DC crew is set to unleash their debut album to a whole new audience. After a string of successful remixes that included Louis Armstrong, Krafty Kuts and many others, Fort Knox Five have stepped up to provide a listening experience that is uniquely their own. With the use of a pleasant deal of live instrumentation, they... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6498 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6498 DEEDS OF FLESH Of What’s to Come (Unique Leader) (5/10) Deeds of Flesh have a large fan base, and after checking them out years ago I had no idea why – they specialised in simpleton, meat-headed and down-tuned death metal that forgot to take into account all the innovation that’s permeated the genre over the years. ‘Of What’s to Come’ (rather arrogant, don’t you... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6497 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6497 DEATHSTARS Night Electric Night (Nuclear Blast) 7/10 The glammed-up Goths from Sweden are back with a punchy new album and a forth-coming world tour. Stylistically ‘Night Electric Night’ picks up where ‘Termination Bliss’ left off almost three years ago – except this time it’s personal.   Where previous albums have revolved somewhat loosely around standard... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6496 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6496 DAVID BYRNE & BRIAN ENO Everything That Happens Will Happen Today Todomundo Ltd 7/10 Longtime friends and collaborators, David Byrne and Brian Eno have again joined forces to bring us more of their twisted pop distortions. Byrne always had a skewed take on what a rock vocalist should sound like, his quirkiness defining the sound of Talking Heads while such artists as Bowie and Coldplay hired Eno for his eccentric arrangement... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6495 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6495 BRIGHTBLACK MORNING LIGHT Motion to Rejoin Matador/Remote Control 8/10 A rather odd record espousing (among other things) the joys of living in a teepee, ‘Motion to Rejoin’ is certainly going to stand out from the crowd in a large way. Proudly recorded using solar panels only (“against nuclear and coal power” it states below the disk) in a New Mexico cabin, the album is a warm, crunchy trip... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6494 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6494 A STORM OF LIGHT And We Wept the Black Ocean Within (Neurot) 8.5/10 With this mighty debut album A Storm of Light have commenced their career with a rolling start. Neurosis’ masterful visual director Josh Graham heads the group of well-seasoned artists, so it’s no wonder this instantly comes across as the work of an already accomplished unit. As if originating from the deep murky waters of the haunting cover art,... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6493 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6493 ARCH ENEMY Tyrants of the Rising Sun – Live in Japan (Century Media) 7/10 “Pure Fucking Metal” written boldly across the pants of singer Angela Gossow, is exactly what you get on this live DVD from Arch Enemy. Captured live in Tokyo, this DVD is nicely recorded and produced, delivering the live atmosphere without the usual sound/video quality issues associated with live-recorded features.  The... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6492 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6492 ANTONY AND THE JOHNSONS The Crying Light (Spunk/EMI) 9/10 Those wishing for a repeat of Antony and the Johnsons’ stunning Mercury Music Prize-winning ‘I Am A Bird Now’ will not be disappointed with the band’s third full-length, ‘The Crying Light’. Again we are presented with 10 tracks of Antony Hegarty’s masterful artistry, complete with a similarly evocative black... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6491 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6491 A SECRET DEATH A Secret Death (Skull & Bones) (8/10) After two years of recording, the Gold Coast’s A Secret Death have finally released this, their debut album, and anyone who saw them live in that period could plainly see that change was in the air, something that’s aptly reflected in the material here. While the primary strength of previous offering ‘Fear is the Driving Force’ was just... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=4434 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=4434 Five albums into their career, Swedish metal surrealists Cult of Luna are finally making their way to Australia. Singer Johannes Persson talks music evolution and film-making with Greg Reason. It’s cool how different each record is from its predecessor. ‘Eternal Kingdom’ strikes me as being a bit more complex and a bit stranger than any of your prior work. I’m not really sure what happens when... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=3741 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=3741 They love us unconditionally whether we’re down in the dumps or on top of the world! They’re our best friends, and we owe it to them to make sure that their lives are as happy and comfortable as they can possibly be. The guys from Dillinger Escape Plan recently posed with their favourite furry friends for the Be An Angel for Animals campaign, an initiative of PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals). The photo is... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6441 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6441 The Powerhouse in its theatre format is perfect for intimate shows, although at times the intimacy can be stifling, particularly for small shows. McCisko’s set was almost excruciatingly loaded with nervous energy as the semi-duo gently unfolded their delicate tracks. A beautiful voice can only take you so far though and by the end of the set the lack of variety in song structure had become a bit of an issue. Not so much of a warm-up... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6440 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6440 A welcomingly mild day was the perfect welcome to Laneway’s new venue near the showgrounds – vindicating the choice to move the date right into summer festival season. The new venue is spacious and well laid out for the size of the crowd, with very few creases to iron out, especially considering it was something of a housewarming. For a ‘party band’, Still Flyin’ proved to be a wimpy version... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6413 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6413 Scottish power punks Biffy Clyro have announced a tour through Australia in March before they head back to the studio to record their fifth album. The tour will swing through The Arena in Brisbane on 28 March, with tickets on sale now. http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6382 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6382 Wiley has cancelled the remaining dates on his 'Godfather of Grime' Australian tour, due to 'personal reasons within the tour party'. All tickets will be refunded but it's a bummer for those who wanted to catch him. http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6366 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6366 The latest next-big-thing Tame Impala have announced a national headline tour this February so we can all see what the talk has been about. The 'Skeleton Tiger' tour will showcase the tracks from their 'Antares Mira Sun' EP, and they'll be playing the Zoo on Friday February 27. http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6362 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6362 Before they head overseas for their second UK tour in under a year, Melbourne garage-rockers British India will smash through Australian country towns and cities when they hit the proverbial road in February through April to promote their new single ‘God Is Dead.’ The dates are: Friday 13 February  Coolangatta Hotel Coolangatta QLD Saturday 14 February  Hoey Moey Coffs Harbour QLD Thursday 19... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6360 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6360 Who would’ve thought that the punctuality of a venue and not the lack of it would prove to be a problem? With doors opening at 8pm I thought an 8:40 arrival would be appropriate to catch the intriguing and esoteric Afrirampo – no such luck. It must’ve been one helluva brief set, as the crowd was piling out of the theatre as I entered. Ah well, certainly not the first reviewer to miss the first support and I doubt... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6359 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6359 The 2009 Big Day Out got off to a terrible start. Upon arrival at the Parkland gates, those wishing to park at the venue were informed, once past the point of no return, that there had been a parking price change. The previous years’ fee of $10 had been increased to a whopping $40 – that’s right, $40! Talk about an economic crisis. It was like greeting an old friend with an outstretched hand only to be met with a... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6316 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6316 Grandmaster Flash has been added to the Future Music Festival lineup on March 7. The full lineup is: N*E*R*D Basement Jaxx CSS Paul Oakenfold Grandmaster Flash* Richie Hawtin Steve Angello Sander Kleinenberg Sebastian Ingrosso Stephan Bodzin Live** Markus Schulz Ettiene De Crecy Live Tocadisco Joachim Garraud Ian Carey Christopher Lawrence Mr Oizo Lifelike Super 8 & Tab Yacht Wolfgang Gartner... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6314 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6314 Glowing orbs of light stalked Washington as she faced the Zoo’s couple-y crowd. She’s got a fantastic voice and her ability to create a rhythm with just her piano was impressive – definitely one to watch in the future. Gone are the days of elocution lessons for young ladies and more’s the pity for Lisa Mitchell. That’s not to say she spat and cursed as she took the stage (not that I saw... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6312 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6312 The Tasmanian leg of the Falls Festival has been blessed with beautiful summer weather ever since its birth in 2003. This good run had to come to an end some time - especially considering the Apple Isle’s notoriously extreme and unpredictable weather patterns - and the 2008 Falls Festival was that time. Intermittent showers and cold, blustery winds sent a shiver up many a summer frock and shrunk the trunk of several inappropriately... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6276 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6276 We had a sense of real excitement as we headed out from Melbourne for our first ever Lorne Falls Festival this year. Little did we know the three days of terror that awaited us. For a start, I had fucked up my girlfriend’s flight, so we were a good 5 hours behind our friends. The late departure meant queues. Long queues. The 70 min drive from Geelong to Lorne turned into a 3.5 hour horror show as cars snaked along the Great Ocean... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6269 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6269 It was that concert, the one that so many wanted tickets to but just missed out. I was privileged enough though to witness the brilliance of it all. First up, if you want two words to live by this summer Tame Impala is it. For a young, fresh act these guys were a superb support playing an array of psychedelic rock and infused techno including an awesome cover of Blueboy’s ‘Remember Me’. Luke Steele then followed... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6258 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6258 Obviously we made a good impression on Death Cab For Cutie - the indie darlings are returning for another tour just five months after their last one. They're finishing the tour at the Tivoli in Brisbane on February 28, tickets go on sale this Friday the 9th of January. http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6257 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6257 Twelve short months since Brisbane buzzed with anticipation for the first Daft Punk show to grace the city, Modular staged another knees up, this time to mark ten years of existence. While this year’s lineup was less monumental than the French robots – it certainly showcased the strength of the Modular roster, drawing in some of the biggest names in Australian and UK indie dance. The loss of some of the Modular up and... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6137 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6137 After a quieter year by Empire standards, the guys are pulling together their ever-entertaining troupe to hit the road in Australia, with the announcement of 16 shows, and more to follow. Having declared some ‘long service leave’ for 2008,The Cat Empire, who had been on a seemingly never-ending international tour, have spent this year closer to home; Felix delved into his classical side, Will returned to study town... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6267 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6267 There’s a weird feeling that accompanies walking to a show with the sun still glaring down. With the doors opening at 6pm this was one of the earliest starts I’d experienced for an Arena gig and consequently it wasn’t until two bands in that anything resembling a decent crowd had accumulated in the place. Openers Spitfire Liar played what could be best described as Southside Gunners punk with nu metal rapping... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6080 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6080 STEREOSONIC RNA Showgrounds With some bad-arse storms leading up to the first instalment of Stereosonic, no one expected the day to be as beautiful as it turned out. Kieron C made good use of his unexpected extra 20 minutes by tacking some perfectly placed Trentemoller onto the end of his set. Once all the technical difficulties were sorted out, Booka Shade jumped straight into a lively and diverse set that had the early crowd bouncing.... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6079 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6079 ZACK AND MIRI MAKE A PORNO Seth Rogen, Elizabeth Banks, Craig Robinson, Justin Long 7/10 Kevin Smith, the director of films like ‘Clerks’ and ‘Mallrats’, hasn’t matured enough to make a first-rate comedy, but he has acquired enough insight (or is it, common sense?) to cast the familiar faces that have made Judd Apatow films like ‘The 40-Year-Old Virgin’,... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6078 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6078 YES MAN Jim Carrey, Zooey Deschanel, Bradley Cooper, Terrance Stamp, 9/10 Yes, Jim Carrey is back doing his Jim Carrey shtick. Yes, the premise is a lot like ‘Liar, Liar’. And yes, you’re going to remember why you love it so much when Jim Carrey does that thing he does.  Here’s the premise: Carl Allen (Carrey) works at a bank as a loan officer. It’s his job to say... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6077 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6077 TWILIGHT Kristen Stewart, Robert Pattinson, Billy Burke 7/10 While Harry Potter takes the year off to examine the small patch of brown pelt growing on his gaunt chest, another star of the supernatural realm has put up his hand to fill that vacant spot. He’s Edward Cullen, the bushy-browed, blood-guzzling, brooding bad boy of Stephenie Meyer’s fantastical ‘Twilight’ novels. Cullen (Robert... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6076 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6076 SLUMDOG MILLIONAIRE Dev Patel, Anil Kapoor, Freida Pinto 7/10 If you wanted to hook up with your long lost love would you: a) give her a call, b) give her a poke on FaceBook, c) go on ‘Who Wants to Be A Millionaire?’, or d) give up and go back to the sad, lonely, and familiar comfort of one’s hand? In an attempt to find his childhood love Latika, who is a big fan of the popular game show, 18-year-old... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6075 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6075 MADAGASCAR: ESCAPE 2 AFRICA Ben Stiller, Chris Rock, David Schwimmer, Sacha Baron Cohen 10/10 I like to move it, move it! And honestly, who wouldn’t? This movie keeps you laughing from the very opening credits. Every nook and cranny has been punched up for laughs and the creativity here is through the roof. I watched it in a theatre full of hysterical kids, so I know they love it, and adults will be able to appreciate the... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6074 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6074 AUSTRALIA Hugh Jackman, Nicole Kidman, Brandon Walters 7/10 I remember reading a Sigur Ros album review once that poked fun at the need to include the word ‘glacial’ in any discussions of the band’s work. And so it is with ‘Australia’, try as you might, that word ‘epic’ just keeps on bubbling to the surface.  And let’s face it, after a crippling... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6073 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6073 My name is: Kleen I’m in a band called: Evenbreak We are from: Coolum Our latest release is: ‘The Sunny Coastin Mixtape’ People always compare us to: Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid See us live at: the Coolum Beach Hotel with DJ Wezman, Drawcard and Devastatin’ Dave on Saturday December 13. Our MySpace is: www.myspace.com/evenbreak Favourite album released in 2008: Pete Rock –... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6070 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6070 It’s been a long time coming, but Brisbane goth-core five-piece Wish For Wings’ debut full-length album is finally here. Vocalist Rhys Watts spoke to Gav Britton via email about ‘Afterlife’ and the band’s ludicrously long summer tour. What’s been happening over the past 12 months? We have been pretty quiet of late. I guess we spent the first half of the year finishing off the... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6069 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6069 Named after the location of the Jack the Ripper murders, Knoxville deathcore six-piece Whitechapel have experienced a rapid rise to fame since forming in 2006. The band’s second album, ‘This is Exile’, continues to win them fans all over the globe and is bringing them to Australia in January. One of the band’s three guitarists, Alex Wade, spoke to Gav Britton via email. ‘This is... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6068 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6068 After supporting All Shall Perish in Brisbane, The Red Shore tragically lost frontman Damien ‘Damo’ Morris and friend Andy Milner when the two lads were killed in a freak auto accident on their way to a gig in Sydney. This would damage most bands beyond repair, but The Red Shore are at it again with new members, a second lease on life and a brand new album, ‘Unconsecrated’. By Rob S The new... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6067 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6067 Sweden is to music what Australia is to sport: a country that punches above its weight, mixing it with the big boys. With just nine million people, it’s ridiculously over-represented on the charts, and has been for decades. But why? In an effort to find answers, The Professor spoke to someone on the inside – The Hives’ drummer Chris Dangerous. “I guess it comes back from like the ‘50s... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6066 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6066 “People always say that punk is the folk music of Los Angeles, but mariachi is a close second, if not a number one,” says Joby J. Ford, guitarist and ringleader of hard-knuckled LA rockers The Bronx. This year The Bronx recorded two albums in the one sitting: the scorching punk-rock ‘The Bronx (III)’ and a mariachi-style companion record ‘El Bronx’, set for release early in 2009.... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6065 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6065 Sigurd ‘Satyr’ Wongraven: for any black metal fan worth their salt, it’s a name associated with an unabashed approach to art and a staunch resilience against the genre’s strict audio/visual style guide. It’s also a name linked to Norway’s bleak, wintry landscape, so Gav Britton was surprised when Satyr answered his call from a stinking hot hotel room in New Delhi,... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6064 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6064 Sam La More is a superstar. He’s produced and written songs for everyone from Gwen Stefani to The Potbelleez. He is one half of electronic duo Tonite Only and has signed a massive deal with Ministry of Sound. He is also set to run wild when he plays at Odyssey ’09 on New Years Eve. By Vivienne Hill “Hell no, no fucking way,” says Sam when asked if he’d ever go on a family tour with his... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6063 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6063 Decades before hip-hop was watered down, commercialised and fed to the masses, it was something entirely different. Acting as “CNN for black people”, hip-hop provided a social forum for the ills of the era, cultural issues and personal troubles; a stark contrast from the hedonistic, self-obsessed incarnation it currently occupies. The undisputed heavyweight champions of the era were Public Enemy, and Tsunami had the good... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6062 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6062 Port O’Brien is one of the most isolated places on earth. A small corner of Kodiak Island, some 400 kilometres from the Alaskan state capital of Anchorage, it’s a cold and desolate wilderness characterised by sea and ice. Type it into Google Maps and all you get is blue and white – no roads, nothing. It’s so far removed from everything that even singer/songwriter Van Pierszalowski hasn’t been... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6061 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6061 It’s a well known fact that the world’s greatest producers keep their studio tips and tricks very close to their chest. Pendulum are no different. That being said, bass player, producer, DJ and songwriter Gareth McGrillen was willing to crack open the sacred tomb that is the inner workings of Pendulum very briefly to share a few secrets with our own hardware junkie Rubba Sinka. Pendulum’s latest album, 'In... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6060 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6060 Peabody had to sit on their latest creation, ‘Prospero’, for about a year while they battled the countless dramas that come with releasing a self-financed album. Finally though, the boys are sharing their new-look band and matured sound with the world. Lead vocalist Bruno Brayovic took a sickie to chat with Tim Chapman about ‘Prospero’ and life in Peabody. Lyrically, ‘Prospero’... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6059 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6059 Tsunami managed to catch up with Mammal’s extremely busy vocalist Ezekiel Ox to talk about the important things: like why Mammal’s live show is so killer, and unionising the sex industry. By Sleeve “You know what the problem with porn is?” Ezekiel asks, piquing my intrepid curiosity immediately. “I’m not judging anyone, but the industry is chock-full of exploitation on a... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6058 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6058 Kate Miller-Heidke attracts a wide range of people with her music. Could this be because she got fired from Best and Less back in the day? Could it be because she saw Doctor Phil in his garden on a recent trip to LA? Or could it be because her music is just so darn interesting? Whatever it is, it seems everyone wants a piece of this quirky blonde bombshell. By Vivienne Hill With a freshly-released sophomore album,... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6057 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6057 Josh Pyke is a modern-day poet, and a rare one at that. His exterior reveals a humble, quietly-spoken man who could seem content merely observing. Underneath is a mind so gifted in prose and song that one small idea can manifest into a musical experience rich in emotion and meaning. With pen and paper in hand and guitar strapped firmly around his neck, Pyke makes acoustic folk music that has critics hailing “timeless”... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6056 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6056 American journeyman Jim Ward tells Tsunami about happiness in reverse. By Steve Tauschke From inside a tour van speeding across the New Mexican desert, Jim Ward’s dry wit rings true. “I do best when things are chaotic,” muses the Texan-born singer/songwriter en route to a show. “But when things are going well and are planned out and I have free time, that’s when I start losing my head a... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6055 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6055 Not content with releasing and touring the band’s newest and ninth studio album, ‘A Sense of Purpose’, In Flames guitarist Jesper Strömblad has also managed to release a cracking new album this year with his Dimension Zero side project. But his hectic year is not over yet. As soon as In Flames finish their American tour with Gojira, Strömblad and the band will squeeze Xmas in and then set their... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6054 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6054 Tracking down local blues/roots legend Hat Fitz is not an easy task. When he’s not writing internationally-acclaimed music or touring the country, he’s noisily working in his Kin Kin shed. Fortunately, Fitz heard Tsunami’s Simone Hockins’ phone call over the sound of his grinder. When talking to Fitz, you get the sense he is passionate about two things: the local music scene and the lack of... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6053 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6053 It’s that time of year of again. Decorations adorn the aisles of retail outlets, parents succumb to the whims of their children’s desires for the latest craze and toy fad, and Chrisco hampers arrive ready to bloat the family come Christmas Day lunch. But on the streets of Brisbane, countless lonely youths struggle to find joy in the festive season. Sleeve spoke to Joc Curran, owner of Fortitude Valley’s The Zoo,... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6052 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6052 One of the better-named bands to emerge in 2008, Fuck Buttons’ music is a very different beast in style, sound and structure compared to many of the other breakthrough acts of this year. Richard Buck caught up with one half of the duo, Benjamin John Power, to find out how they produced the most anti-pop, pop album of the year, ‘Street Horrrsing’. To make a noise album that has appeal to listeners outside of... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6051 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6051 It’s difficult to progress in the world of black metal without pissing off the ‘kvlt’ purists. Norwegian five-piece Enslaved, however, do it with ease, and continue to go from strength-to-strength on their prog-flavoured tenth studio album, ‘Vertebrae’. In the words of Ron Burgundy: “Don’t act like you’re not impressed.” By Gav Britton Guitarist... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6050 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6050 As we close out 2008, we salute one of Australia’s biggest success stories of the last 12 months: Eddy Current Suppression Ring. The Melbournian four-piece have come into their own this year. Their sophomore album, ‘Primary Colours’, raced on to a host of accolades, including an ARIA Charts Top Ten placing, an ARIA Award nomination, J-Award nomination, an endless scroll of rave reviews, and there’s sure... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6049 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6049 From their humble beginnings working in Hamburg’s Underground Solutions record store, Digitalism duo Jens Moelle and İsmail Tüfekçi never in their wildest dreams expected to be travelling the world headlining festivals and packing out clubs. Luke Davison called up Jens, who was enjoying a rare day off on a sunny autumn day at his Hamburg home. Life has been flat out for the Digitalism duo since the... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6048 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6048 Cradle of Filth would have to be one of the most hated bands in black metal. Initially hailed as the genre’s prestigious sons, the English Goths were quickly disowned when the band “sold out” and infiltrated the mainstream with their highly commercial ‘Jesus is a C$nt’ fashion apparel and catchy black metal ditties (please note the sarcasm). ‘Godspeed on the Devil’s... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6047 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6047 Whether they’re recording an album covering the likes of Queen, King Crimson, Pantera and Counting Crows, or writing their own 15-minute prog-metalcore epics, Between The Buried And Me (BTBAM) are always going against the grain. So, when it came time for the North Carolina five-piece to create their first-ever live DVD, it’s no surprise they threw out the rule book. By Gav Britton “Instead of going with a... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6041 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6041 UNWRITTEN LAW Live and Lawless CD/DVD (Suburban Noize/Shock) 6/10 The thing about live albums is they never capture the true feelings, emotions, energy and atmosphere of a real live show; especially if you have seen that band play live just recently. This album is not an exception. It is however a great collection of the best Unwritten Law tracks ever written. All the hits are present, from ‘Teenage Suicide’ to... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6040 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6040 THE FANTOMAS MELVINS BIG BAND Live From London (Ipecac/Shock) 7/10 The fact that these guys are doing their best to push this project further into the realms of avant-garde quirkiness is quickly made evident by the random gobbledygook subtitles that appear throughout the entirety of the first song. They further enforce this sentiment with a rough style of filmmaking, which employs wacky editing, screen warping effects and overlaid... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6039 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6039 OPETH The Roundhouse Tapes (Peaceville/Stomp) 8/10 With this year’s excellent ‘Watershed’ album and its subsequent Australian tour still fresh in Opeth fans’ memories, this live DVD tops off a productive year for Sweden’s prog metal masters. Featuring footage taken from the same UK November 2006 show at the Camden Roundhouse as the CD version of the ‘The Roundhouse... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6038 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6038 BETWEEN THE BURIED AND ME Colors_Live (Victory/Stomp) 8/10 If you focus hard enough, as word of this DVD gets out and more and more view it, you can actually hear the sound of people quitting music. Reason being, this is one of those live DVDs that makes most other bands look like struggling amateurs. Not only do Between The Buried And Me succeed in playing their most recent album, ‘Colors’, perfectly at this show,... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6037 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6037 TECHNICAL SYMPLICITY Orbit (Independent) 6/10 It’s been a long wait, but hardworking Sunshine Coast four-piece Technical Symplicity have finally delivered their debut six-track EP, ‘Orbit’. Instrumentally, the band lay down an impressive bed of infectious, mosh-friendly and progressive rhythms that are boosted by a solid Az Kerwin (Light of Day Productions) production. Lyrically and vocally, the EP is given... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6036 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6036 TAME IMPALA Antares Mira Sun (Modular) 8.5/10 This young Perth outfit’s debut EP channels the best of Beatles-era psychedelic rock. Standard song structures give way to lengthy, formless improvised sections as is the case on ‘Half Full Glass Of Wine’, where its fade-in and outs add to the ‘60s effect. Then there’s the sound: ‘Antares Mira Sun’ is markedly... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6035 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6035 JAMES GREHAN Space Between the Silence (Bubblewrap) 5/10 With his softly-sung voice, professional guitar skills and Simon and Garfunkel folk sound, James Grehan’s latest mini-album ‘Space Between the Silence’ seems straight from the 1960s. ‘Reasons’ is a mesmerising track, being one of the highlights. The downfall in this mini-album is that it lacks cohesiveness. Predominantly, Grehan... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6034 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6034 IN SEPIA Self-titled (Independent) 9/10 Imagine mid-‘90s emo like The Appleseed Cast and Christie Front Drive being played by a post-rock band and you’re only just scratching the surface when it comes to understanding In Sepia’s sound. These guys are masters of looping deceptively simple riffs; instead of coming off as boring, it’s downright hypnotic. This debut EP sports one of the best guitar... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6033 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6033 HEARTBREAK CLUB O Tempora! O Mores! (Goodman and Heart/Amphead) 8/10 ‘O Tempora! O Mores!’ is the second EP from Sydney four-piece Heartbreak Club. Opening with ‘Sunset and the Raging Sea’, you immediately get a feel for what you’re in for: mid-tempo, power-pop with a punk twinge, clever lyrics and a whole bunch of fun. ‘Last Endeavours’ is a highlight, seeming to... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6032 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6032 DUFF MCKAGAN’S LOADED Wasted Heart (Century Media/Stomp) 7/10 I don’t know about you, but I find it kind of humorous that this EP was released at around the same time as the new Gunners - coinkydink? Me thinks not. Anyway, I digress… ‘Wasted Heart’ is a little curious in my opinion. Wereas Duff has always been known for his punk links, this release is a slick, ultra-polished batch of... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6031 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6031 DEAD LETTER CIRCUS Next In Line (Independent) 9/10 If anticipation for Dead Letter Circus’ debut album was already at an unbearably high level after the first taster ‘Reaction’, which is also included on this disc along with an additional song ‘Tremors’, this second single is going to make the wait even more painful. Kim Benzie’s glorious, layered harmonies soar over a rapid,... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6030 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6030 DEAD KELLY Cross In Our Sky (Independent) 8.5/10 This eight-track EP from the Sunshine Coast’s very own Bush Ranger version of Brujeria is easily one of the best Australian metal releases for 2008. This anonymous, wife-beater wearing group of ultra-patriotic bandits (who may or may not feature musicians from Melodyssey, Chin and Excruciate) create a distinctly Australian blend of Damaged-sounding metal with subtle melody,... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6029 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6029 DASH AND WILL Fighting Over Nothing (Universal) 8/10 The key to the success of Melbourne duo Dash and Will would have to be in their voices; in particular, they way in which they harmonise perfectly. Their debut EP, ‘Fighting Over Nothing’, showcases their voice, riddled with pop melodies and a slight rock edge. It’s almost hard not to like them. Opener and title track eases you into the EP, leading into... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6028 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6028 BLACKCHORDS These Lights (Dust Devil Music) 8/10 In a remarkable display of subtlety and poise, Blackchords have managed the unthinkable in comfortably pulling off an epic-pop sound in the manner of Coldplay or vintage Radiohead. There is conviction here that implies sincerity and songs are arranged in such a manner that they don’t come across as garishly as this sort of material often does. Blackchords are showing themselves... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6027 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6027 WINSTON GILES Lovers (MGM) 8/10 If you find yourself moaning regularly and repeating the words, “I have a fever, and the only prescription is more cowbell”, then this one is for you. The Winston Giles Orchestra have brought nine solid tracks to what is, these days, a very large electronic music table. Their stuff is funky, new age, not too techy, not too rocky, but just right new wave electro synth pop. Tracks like... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6026 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6026 WEDNESDAY 13    Skeletons        (Demolition Records/Riot) 6/10 Wednesday 13 has produced another theatrical, shock rock, industrial album that will please fans of his horror-themed dance metal tunes. Cleverly titled tracks with dam catchy songs to back up, Wednesday 13 will not disappoint fans still writhing from ‘Fang Bang’. Opening... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6025 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6025 VIRUS The Black Flux (Season of Mist/Modern Invasion) 9/10 Whether tracing the lineage of black metal’s elite (Satyricon, Ulver, Aura Noir), or delving into the history of the genre’s more avant-garde mutations (Ved Buens Ende, Dodheimsgard, Virus), you’ll notice one common factor: the genius that is Carl-Michael Eide. Not content with already releasing one of the year’s best primitive black... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6024 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6024 VARIOUS ARTISTS Masif Vs Tidy (Masif/Stomp) 9/10 Tidy Trax are like the hard dance mafia and the Tidy Boys are the Godfathers of their genre. After a few years that saw a lack of quality hard house releases, things are picking up for lovers of banging hard dance. Andrew Pickles and Amadeus Mozart (his middle name is Celery in case you were wondering) have teamed up with Masif label boss and adopted Aussie Steve Hill and English prodigy... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6023 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6023 UNEARTH The March (Metal Blade/Stomp) 3/10 It’s a shame when a once-impressive band falls into the trap of repeating both itself and the bands that influence it. While listening to ‘The March’, not only did I think, ‘Where have I heard that riff before?’ quite a few times, but by now you know exactly where in a song Unearth are going to slot in that big breakdown. After four albums... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6022 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6022 THIEVERY CORPORATION Radio Retaliation (Shock) 9/10 The DC boys Rob Garza and Eric Hilton are back with their fifth full-length, and this time they are packing a full political assault. They have jumped up from their spot in the night-time waters of tranquillity and moved into daylight with a burning passion to shed illumination onto many of the world’s atrocities, making them plain for all to see. A Mexican Zapatista... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6021 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6021 THE SEA AND CAKE Car Alarm (Thrill Jockey/Pop Frenzy) 9/10 The Sea and Cake have been around for so long that nothing less than superb is expected of them, and this is exactly what you get with their latest release, ‘Car Alarm’. Known for their indie-pop sensibility with jazz, electronic and experimental influences, the eighth release from this Chicago four-piece is everything you could hope for. These moments of... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6020 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6020 THE RED SHORE Unconsecrated (Ferret Records/Stomp) 7/10 Most bands would have thrown in the towel if they’d experienced the loss The Red Shore did right after playing the Brisbane leg of All Shall Perish’s Australian tour. Hell, nobody would have blamed them if they had. The loss of a vocalist/good friend would be enough to make anyone rethink their own life. However, instead of calling it quits, The Red Shore... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6019 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6019 THE POTBELLEEZ The Potbelleez (Universal) 9/10 Commercial dance music never sounded better. The Potbelleez deliver some very booty-shaking tunes on their first release. The contrasting elements between MC Blue’s rap styling and Ilan’s vocals deliver a unique quality that makes The Potbelleez style extremely individual. They have included their previous releases on the record, including ‘Don’t Hold... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6018 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6018 THE KILLERS Day & Age (Universal)  8/10 The third stage of The Killers’ musical journey is like that friend you quite like, but at first can only handle in small doses. Then, as their initial full-on excitement wanes and you start to really listen to what they have to offer, you realise this friend is rather cool – they just take time to grow on you. The songs don’t seem to jump out in... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6017 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6017 THE GO SET Rising (MGM) 9/10 I’d never heard of The Go Set before I stumbled upon this album, but now I don’t know how I got by without them. The Go Set is Australia’s answer to bands like Flogging Molly and Dropkick Murphys, combining Aussie heritage music with punk rock rhythms. The lyrical themes cover the Australian story from settlement through to issues that still affect today’s society.... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6016 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6016 THE FUNKOARS The Hangover (Peepshow Entertainment/Shogun) 8.5/10 The Funkoars return with another album jam-packed with boom-bap beats, cross fader abuse and raw, in-your-face wordplay. In comparison to their previous body of work, Sesta and Trials have progressively taken their production efforts to the next level. Also, all cuts provided by DJ Reflux on choruses, breakdowns and bridges sound seamlessly integrated, helping broaden... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6015 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6015 THE CURE 4:13 Dream (Geffen/Universal) 4/10 It’s hard to believe that it has been four years since The Cure released their self-titled album, and after listening to ‘4:13 Dream’, I prefer to remain in denial. For, if I face the truth that I’ve waited four long, anxious years for this pile of rubbish, I run the risk of sending myself completely over the edge. I know that many of The... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6014 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6014 THE BRONX The Bronx (III) (White Drugs/Shock) 8/10 You’ve got to love a band that leaves all of its albums self-titled. This is the third one, and it probably won’t be the last. If you’re familiar with what these LA punks have done in the past, you pretty much know what this one’s all about. As always, it’s straight to the point punk rock rooted firmly in the caustic traditions of the... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6013 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6013 THE BLACKWATER FEVER Sweet Misery (Plus One Records/Shock) 9/10 Too often, the blues is wheeled out like a dusty old museum piece. Someone, often a genteel white guy, will don a guitar, play a twelve bar progression with a technically proficient blues-wank solo, and say, ‘Look, this is where rock ‘n’ roll came from’. Often that person’s name is Eric Clapton, and he will say, ‘I... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6012 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6012 THE AMENTA n0n (Stomp) 6/10 I remember seeing these guys with their new singer earlier in the year and thinking all was well and the band’s highly-anticipated next full-length would be as brilliant as their first. Well, I was half right. The material on here is amazing, if a little bit too similar to their previous record. Normally I’d consider this a problem, but seeing how much I loved (and still love)... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6011 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6011 TEXAS TEA The Junkship Recordings (Plus One/Shock) 9/10 Within the first moments of ‘The Junkship Recordings’, you’re hit with this voice: a voice that’s sad, desperate, with many a burden upon its invisible shoulders. ‘Cane Farmer’s Song’ is a captivating opening to Brisbane duo Texas Tea’s latest effort. The two-piece, consisting of Kate Jacobson and... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6009 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6009 SQUAREPUSHER Just A Souvenir (Warp/Inertia) 7/10 The ever-mutating anomaly that is Tom Jenkinson (aka Squarepusher) is at his typically unpredictable and indefinable best and worst on his eleventh album, ‘Just A Souvenir’. If your brain is in need of a thorough rinsing via maximum overload of audio frequencies, then this may be what you’re after. To understand this album, his short story detailing a... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6008 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6008 SPARKS Exotic Creatures of the Deep (Lil’ Beethoven/Shock) 9/10 Over 38 years, the brothers Mael (aka Sparks) have done just about everything. They pioneered the operatic bombast that Queen would take to the bank and have made innovative additions to genres such as new wave and chamber pop—all with their trademark cutting humour. From the beatific chorus of voices begging you to like them that is woven throughout... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6007 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6007 SIA Some People Have Real Problems (Monkey Puzzle Records/Inertia) 9/10 You just have to glance at the titles in her song catalogue to gauge that Sia is no ordinary musician to be pigeon-holed along side other artists or genres. ‘Little Black Sandals’, ‘The Girl You Lost to Cocaine’ and ‘Death by Chocolate’ are just a handful of the quirky tracks nestled in this solid album.... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6006 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6006 SATYRICON The Age of Nero (Roadrunner) 7.5/10 Whether they’re specialising in medieval black metal (‘Nemesis Devina’), or filthy, urban decay (‘Rebel Extravaganza’), Satyricon have never been ones to stay in the same space for too long. Catchy hard rock anthem ‘Fuel For Hatred’, from 2002’s ‘Volcano’, seemed to change all this. The... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6005 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6005 RYAN ADAMS AND THE CARDINALS Cardinology (Lost Highway/Universal) 4.5/10 You may have stopped reading after the unforgivably punny title of this album., but I believe Ryan Adams deserves more credit than he gets. While his seemingly attention-seeking antics tend to distract from his musical output (some would argue there’s precious little music in the output anyway), Adams has recorded some very affecting material in the past.... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6004 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6004 RODRIGO Y GABRIELA Live in Japan (Shock) 8/10 As the story goes, these Mexican maestros made their bones busking in Europe and were invited on their first tour by Damien Rice. Fortunate, as the masses can now enjoy these masters of guitar who embody the synchronicity of man and woman on a whole new musical level. The instruments are an extension of themselves, and the sound converts into a never before heard love language. In tune with... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6003 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6003 RISE AGAINST Appeal to Reason (Geffen/Universal) 8/10 On ‘Appeal to Reason’ Rise Against show they are an ever-maturing band, yet still pack the raw intensity and energy that shot them into the spotlight with 2004’s ‘Siren Song of the Counter Culture’. Their melodic hardcore is as angry and political as ever on songs like opener ‘Collapse (Post-Amerika)’ and the... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6002 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6002 RAY LA MONTAGNE Gossip in the Grain (Song BMG) 7/10 Ray La Montagne has opened up on his third album, ‘Gossip in the Grain’. The American singer/songwriter says he has not been so reserved in his choice of songs for this latest 10-track effort. Produced by Ethan Johns (drums) in England, the CD includes the work of La Montagne’s touring band – notably bassist Jennifer Condos and guitarist Eric... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6001 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6001 PINK Funhouse (Sony BMG) 8/10 Okay, so I’m usually the first one to bitch about a whinging sheila singing about how her boyfriend/husband left her and blah, blah, blah. But as much as it pains me to say it, I actually do like Pink’s divorce-inspired album, ‘Funhouse’.  It’s funny, truthful, raw and to be taken with a mountain-size grain of salt. Twelve tracks, and one special... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6000 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6000 PEABODY Prospero (Nonzero/Shock) 8/10 Sydney stalwarts Peabody have released their greatest accomplishment to date with ‘Prospero’. With a new line-up since they last hit the studio, they have seized the opportunity to break some new ground with no regard for creative boundaries. Their indie rock fashion throws down a wall of noise which packs a powerful punch and draws on an array of different sounds and influences... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5999 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5999 OHGR DIMD (SPV/Riot) 1/10 Skinny Puppy frontman Ogre has joined with long-time collaborator Mark Foil to bring you one of the scariest pieces of work this side of the millennium. No, I don’t mean Coil we-did-a-soundtrack-for-‘Hellraiser’-that-was-knocked-back-for-being-far-too-damn-scary scary, I’m talking if-Tim-Burton-produced-a-Pet-Shop-Boys-album scary. The whole affair starts quite... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5998 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5998 NOAH AND THE WHALE Peaceful, the World Lays Me Down (Universal) 9/10 This debut album from London four-piece Noah and the Whale is a trip through the world of love lost and found. First single ‘5 Years Time’ was released last year and is the catchiest and simplest track on the album. The remainder of the album differs from that single though, full of beautiful vocal harmonies (with the help of Laura Marling) and... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5997 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5997 NITIN SAWHNEY London Undersound (Cooking Vinyl/Shock) 9/10 Nitin Sawhney is back with his eighth worldly masterpiece ‘London Undersound’. Firmly established as a world-class producer, DJ, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, orchestral composer and cultural pioneer, Sawhney takes the listener to a beautiful landscape of sound with messages of social change following the 2005 London bombings. He tries to musically... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5996 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5996 MUDVAYNE The New Game (Epic Records/Sony BMG) 7/10 Since they burst on to the metal scene with their spectacular debut, ‘LD 50’, Mudvayne have pretty much been cult favourites in the genre - even if they have since failed to match the brilliance of their debut. While their second release came close to matching it, their third was, in my opinion, far short of the mark. With ’The New Game’ though,... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5995 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5995 MORGAN GEIST Double Night Time (Environ/Inertia) 7 /10 Geist has been pushing the ‘80s-oriented disco sound with leftfield and retro inflections since the mid-‘90s, both in production and as head of the Brooklyn based Environ record label. ‘Double Night Time’ taps the same synthy, spacious vein that is so characteristic of the Environ sound. While obviously rooted in the ‘80s electronic... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5994 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5994 MISERY INDEX Traitors (Relapse/Riot) 7/10 I hate Dying Fetus. I think they’re quite possibly the most boring, dynamic-less, gimmick-reliant band in death metal, and I avoided Misery Index for years simply because it was formed by ex-members of that band. Well, look who’s the dummy. After putting aside my prejudices and giving ‘Traitors’ a listen, this album has won me over. Misery Index walk a... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5993 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5993 MEGAPUSS Megapuss (ADA/Inertia) 7/10 Kicking off with ringing brass, Megapuss’ self-titled album is a buoyant, upbeat trip indeed. Not that this is surprising when one considers that the instigator is Devendra Banhart, who does manage to try some new things while vacationing from solo-record land. Going from bouncing dream-pop to whiteboy-soul and back again in opener ‘Crop Circle Jerk ‘94’,... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5992 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5992 KID CONFUCIUS The Let Go (Brighton Boulevard Records) 7/10 Sydney’s Kid Confucius went through an evolution process last summer. With the addition of new guitarist James Manson, the band have had a change of style, which is reflected in its latest release, ‘The Let Go’. The 12-track album is more guitar-driven rock with a dash of horns than the to-be-expected 1970s soul of previous CDs. Recorded on... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5991 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5991 KATIE NOONAN Blackbird (The Music of Lennon and McCartney) (Sony BMG) 5/10 What a brilliant idea for the singer of George to release a sophisticated version of Lennon and McCartney’s music. We saw Scarlett Johansson do something similar earlier this year with her album of Tom Waits classics. ‘Blackbird’ has Noonan delivering her signature beautiful, wispy vocals that whisk you away to some forgotten place.... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5990 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5990 KATE MILLER-HEIDKE Curiouser (Sony BMG) 7/10 Pop with a difference is what this little blonde bombshell delivers. Classically trained vocalist Kate Miller-Heidke brings a whole lot of quirkiness to the music industry with her follow up to ‘Little Eve’. On ‘Curiouser’ her song themes deliver a playful, childlike nature with one song titled ‘Supergirl’ and another talking about... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5989 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5989 KANYE WEST 808s & Heartbreak (Rock-A-Fella/Universal) 7/10 From minimalist opening track ‘Say You Will’, you know this is going to be a different sounding Kanye West album. With bucket-loads of awards for his last three albums and way too much ego for one man, Kanye attempts to show the world his talents exceed smooth rapping and clever and catchy beats on this latest offering. Yes, that’s right:... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5987 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5987 JUANA MOLINA Un Dia (Domino/EMI) 8/10 Beautifully hypnotic, enchantingly layered, this album is a treat to listen to. Molina is an Argentinian born, Parisian-raised former comedic actress whose latest album is a stunningly diverse and intricate creation. World music is usually something I avoid due to its hit and miss nature, and my addiction to all things lyrical, but this album is capable of washing away any reservations you might... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5986 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5986 JOHN LEGEND Evolver (Sony BMG) 4/10 It’s a big call when you change your surname from Stephens to Legend but, after an album like ‘Get Lifted’, I’m prepared to let it slide. Four years later, ypu have to wonder what happened to the man who had so often been compared to the likes of Stevie Wonder. ‘Evolver’ is an awkward listen. Gone are the signature piano numbers that made... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5985 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5985 JAY REATARD Matador Singles ‘08 (Matador/Remote Control) 7/10 Imagine someone time travelling to the 1960s, abducting the Thirteenth Floor Elevators, smashing the amplified jug against a wall once returning to the present and teaching them nothing but Stooges, Ramones and Buzzcocks songs. This is the band that lives within Jay Reatard’s twisted, afro-adorned mind and the sound he then commits to tape. This strange... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5984 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5984 JACK’S MANNEQUIN The Glass Passenger (Sire/Warner) 7/10 What started out as a Something Corporate side project has now seemingly surpassed the achievements of its predecessor as Andrew McMahon and co. burst into the mainstream with this second studio album, ‘The Glass Passenger’. The album features a collection of piano-based pop rock which sounds a little like Ben Folds meets American Hi Fi, with just a... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5983 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5983 GUNS N’ ROSES Chinese Democracy (Interscope/Universal) 9/10 ‘Chinese Democracy’, the first album of original Guns N’ Roses material since the ‘Use Your Illusion’ albums has arrived. It’s unfortunate that stigma surrounds the album, because while it will most likely be panned - as it is near impossible to satisfy the kind of anticipation generated by it over the... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5982 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5982 GIRL TALK Feed The Animals (Illegal Art/Inertia) 8.5/10 Gregg Gillis is a man who loves everything about pop culture: pop music, blockbuster movies, the whole box and commercial dice. Surely he must then appreciate the irony of his pop/hip-hop/R&B/classic rock Frankenstein creations becoming the soundtrack du jour for hipsters the world over (I mean that in a nice way). ‘Feed The Animals’ is just what the... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5981 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5981 GLASVEGAS Self-titled (Sony)    6/10 To Everett True’s assertion that the Australian music media needs to play more of a ‘tastemaking’ role, I raise the example of Glasvegas as rebuttal. I was lucky enough to be in London earlier in the year and bought an NME for the plane ride home, which happened to have Glasvegas on the cover. The article breathlessly praised the... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5980 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5980 GANG GANG DANCE Saint Dymphna (Warp/Inertia) 8/10 Brooklyn experimental act Gang Gang Dance have always done things outside of the mainstream, more likely to be seen playing a Soho art space than a club. So it’s surprising to hear them push their exotic, sprawling and largely percussive sound in a more conventional direction, especially on an album named after the patron saint of the mentally unstable. The murky reverberation... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5979 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5979 FUNERAL FOR A FRIEND Memory and Humanity (Roadrunner Records) 6/10 ‘Rules and Games’ is an enticing entry to this very melodic rock instalment from ‘Funeral for a Friend’, which leads into perhaps a few too many tracks of the same. The band have embraced more of a groovy, melodic, Jimmy Eat World-style edge, which combines for good driving music, but lacks excitement and punch. In fact, it is not... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5978 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5978 EVIL NINE They Live (Marine Parade/Inertia) 7/10 Evil Nine live up to their name on the duo's second artist album, ‘They Live’. Judging by the schlock-horror theme, it seems Tom Beaufoy and Pat Pardy have spent the last four years since 'You Can be Special Too' watching B-Grade zombie flicks and listening to Michael Jackson’s ‘Thriller’. The guys are (excuse the zombie cliché)... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5977 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5977 ESCAPE THE FATE This War Is Ours (Epitaph/Shock) 5/10 It’s been two years since ‘Dying Is Your Latest Fashion’ exposed Escape the Fate to a legion of obsessed fans. Since then, the band have travelled the world, including Australia earlier this year, building on this buzz by treating fans to a string of intense and packed shows. It was always going to be tough keeping up this positive momentum, and... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5976 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5976 EMPIRE OF THE SUN Walking On A Dream (Capitol/EMI) 8/10 Take two of Australia’s best musical minds in Luke Steele and Nick Littlemore and you’re going to end up with one hell of an album. Empire Of The Sun harnesses the strength of both The Sleepy Jackson and Pnau to create the complete product that both struggled to capture separately. Whereas The Sleepy Jackson struggled with a commercial stronghold with Luke... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5975 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5975 DJ KHALED  We Global (Cash Money/Universal Records) 6/10 America’s premier Palestinian producer, DJ Khaled of Terror Squad, launched on to the hip-hop scene following the release of ‘We Taking Over’; an all-star collaboration featuring the likes of Lil Wayne, Fat Joe and Akon. This trend continues on his latest album, ‘We Global’, with no less than 34 guest spots featuring big... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5974 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5974 DIDO Safe Trip Home (Sony BMG) 7/10 It has always been her unusually-haunting voice that has remained at the core of Dido’s success, and ‘Safe Trip Home’ is no exception. Though her unique voice has never lacked in quality, her vocals on the new album resonate with a certain degree of maturity that listeners have rarely heard. Dido delivers her lyrics in a smooth, calm and collected manner, selling the... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5973 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5973 DIALECTRIX Cycles of Survival (Obese Records) 8/10 Dialectrix is the latest of the new generation to join the Obese camp with his debut solo release, ‘Cycles of Survival’. He manages to keep a consistent, introspective theme going throughout the album due to his lyrical content and the use of just one producer, Chasm. Chasm provides a soulful soundbed for Dialectrix, utilising trademark horns and sombre string and... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5972 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5972 DEPARTMENT OF EAGLES In Ear Park (4AD/Remote Control) 9/10 Grizzly Bear are undoubtedly one of the most enthralling alternative-folk bands of the minute, and thus we should consider ourselves lucky that said powerhouse is not the only musical outlet the boys have. Daniel Rossen proves himself to be one of the key players behind the group with his masterful display of songwriting here, with key colours from 2006’s glorious... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5971 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5971 DEERHUNTER Microcastle/The Weird Era Continued (4AD/Remote Control) 9/10 Now that the craze of bands with wolf in their names is finally over, everyone’s going deer crazy. Bands such as Deerhoof, Deer Factory and Deer Ubu have already tapped into this lucrative deer demographic. But with ‘Microcastle’, Atlanta indie group Deerhunter have just upped the ante. While this third longplayer of theirs might... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5970 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5970 CYNIC Traced in Air (Seasons of Mist/Modern Invasion) 9/10 Comebacks aren’t easy at the best of times. So imagine how Floridian legends Cynic must have felt when they began contemplating recording the follow up to one of the most revered and ground breaking progressive death metal albums of all time (1993’s ‘Focus’) some 15 years after its release. It would have been easy, and understandable, if... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5969 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5969 CW STONEKING Jungle Blues (King Hokum Records/Shock) 9.5/10 Sounding like he’s come straight from the deep south of America, you’d never guess CW Stoneking was Australian. Nor would you ever guess that he’s merely 34 years old. He sings with an American twang and plays music that spawned from the country, and sounds much older than his years. This all comes with the uniquely vintage sound found in his... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5968 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5968 CRAZY P Stop, Space, Return (2020 Vision/Stomp) 7/10 A few years ago I had developed a bad case of sodomy. I was listening to a lot of house and the people I tended to see the most were never wearing the same thing twice and all seemed to be hairdressers or graphic designers. I got some DnB cream and quickly my sodomy problem cleared up… Until last week when I received the newest album from UK live-house band Crazy P... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5967 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5967 BUENA VISTA SOCIAL CLUB At Carnegie Hall (Fuse) 9/10 They say music transcends all cultures and is a universal language that is understood by all. Cuba’s Buena Vista Social Club are an excellent example of this. Their self-titled debut was the biggest selling world music album of all time and this album simply reminds us why. This release is a recording of a sold-out, one-night-only concert at New York’s Carnegie... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5966 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5966 BRING ME THE HORIZON Suicide Season (Visible Noise/Shock Records) 9/10 This album immediately impresses you. The BMTH boys have put together a tight, impressive metal record with aspects of noisecore and licks of clean singing that provide you with no real roadmap for the album, but create one hell of a trip. Oliver Sykes’ vocals are a good mix of brutal and raspy clean singing that produce real emotion through the music,... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5965 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5965 BRIGHTBLACK MORNING LIGHT Motion to Rejoin (Matador/Remote Control) 8/10 A rather odd record espousing (among other things) the joys of living in a teepee, ‘Motion to Rejoin’ is certainly going to stand out from the crowd in a large way. Proudly recorded using solar panels only (“against nuclear and coal power” it states below the disc) in a New Mexico cabin, the album is a warm, crunchy trip... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5964 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5964 BLACK MUSTANG Between The Devil And The Deep Blue Sea (Plus One Records/Shock) 9/10 Every time a great album comes out of Brisbane it swells my heart with pride. Being a big advocator of the amazing talent we have sitting right here in our capital city, I can joyfully say Black Mustang have risen to the occasion. A true rock ’n’ roll vibe is entirely evident on ‘Between The Devil And The Deep Blue... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5963 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5963 BISON BC Quiet Earth (Metal Blade/Stomp) 8/10 ‘Quiet Earth’ is Bison BC’s first for Metal Blade records, and it is a wonderful piece of work that should firmly establish the band with fans of hard hitting lo-fi metal. It is similar in texture to High On Fire or Mastodon’s old stuff, but a little looser and even less vocally influenced. And that is probably the greatest thing about this record: the... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5962 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5962 BEYONCE I Am…Sasha Fierce 8/10 (Sony BMG) I have to be honest – Sasha Fierce scares me. Only a little, but it’s still enough to make me think Beyonce’s alter-ego has surfaced at the expense of her usual amazing self. After all, how is it that this songstress has released pop hit after pop hit and somehow neglected to mention this Ms Fierce? Perhaps Beyonce felt she was due for an image... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5961 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5961 BELLES WILL RING Broader Than Broadway (Remote Control/Inertia) 8/10 Mini-album/mega-EP – call it what you will, but Belles Will Ring aren’t afraid to admit that ‘Broader Than Broadway’ falls somewhat in purgatory. It imposes itself oddly on you. EPs feel so transitory, whereas an album is meant to be more focused. ‘Broader Than Broadway’ comes a year after Belles Will... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5960 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5960 ANDREW KEESE & THE ASSOCIATES Desire (Widescreen Stereophonic) 6/10 The latest effort from Melbourne-based soft rock band Andrew Keese & The Associates is lyrically, an amazing album, but in the end, rather mediocre. First single, ‘Blessed are the Meek’ tends to come off more as a religious hymn, as opposed to a pop song, which can be said about Keese’s voice in general as well. Despite that... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5959 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5959 AMON AMARTH Twilight Of The Thunder God (Metal Blade/Stomp) 8/10 I don’t think it’s possible for Amon Amarth to disappoint. They tell you that they’re going to give you a sweet-ass melodic death metal record about Vikings and Norse Mythology, and sure enough, that’s what they give you. It may sound a lot like their last album - and the one before it, and the one before it - but fuck it,... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5958 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5958 AMAYA LAUCIRICA Sugar Lights (Infidelity/Inertia) 7/10 The fantastic thing about Amaya Laucirica’s debut full-length album is that it is difficult to label.  Folk? Country? Pop? Her music fits all of them really, but at the same time isn’t exclusively any of them. Apart from her successful fusion of genres, her voice is easily one of the best features of this album, emphasising her Australian accent, yet... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5957 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5957 AC/DC Black Ice (Sony BMG) 8/10 This album has been a long time coming. I’m sure there were some fans out there wondering if these legends were ever going to release a new record at all. Well, it took eight years but I’m happy to report that this is one of the band’s strongest efforts since Brian Johnson took up the mic. On ‘Ballbreaker’ and ‘Stiff Upper Lip’ one... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5954 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5954 Okay, it’s quiz time. You are walking down the street and you see a poster for BBQ Beats on New Years day. Someone called Walter Meego is on the bill so you: a) don’t know who they are but you envisage a dwarf playing a ukulele and decide to buy a ticket, b) say, ‘Aw yeah, Walter Meego, I read about them in Tsunami Mag, that would be super cool, I am so going to get a ticket now and take along my water... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5953 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5953 My name is: Joal I’m in a band called: Final Days Of Autumn We are from: Brisbane Our latest release is: a debut album to be released early ’09. People always compare us to: Jeff Buckley, Neil Young, Radiohead See us live at: The Zoo, Brisbane on Friday December 5. Our MySpace is: www.myspace.com/finaldaysofautumn Favourite album released in 2008: Mary Trembles - 'Borrowed Ears, Borrowed Eyes’... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5952 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5952 The Butterfly Effect have been announced as a late inclusion to 2009's Big Day Out festivals. The boys will be backing up from their East Coast tour on in early Jan to play the Australian leg of the BDO. Salt in the wound for those who missed out on tix, but a positive for those who didn't! http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5729 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5729 Psychedelic pop rockers Of Montreal have announced their much debut Australian tour will take place in March 2009. The last couple of years have seen the indie stalwarts explode from cult status to international popularity and after nine albums they've finally got enough cash to make it downuner. They're playing the Zoo on the 4th of March. http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5910 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5910 Despite threatening storms the gods shone on the Riverstage, although the outlook was pretty bleak while Van She were onstage. Dull, muddy sound and a self-conscious vibe made it feel like a support alright – life support. The 80s revival is done guys. A fairly lengthy wait followed the openers, but it served to build electric anticipation for the main game – with the crowd unleashing a huge roar when Bloc Party... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5887 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5887 The Mason Rack band have in the past and in more recent times,  proved themselves to be consistent performers and crowd favorites.  Nick Gane was lucky enough to catch up with Mason after a recent gig at the Nambour RSL to ask them some questions about the bands history and influences. How long have you all been together? About six years with this lineup. Glen ‘the mexican’, our bass player was... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5886 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5886 My name is: Jake Bosci (vocals, guitar) I’m in a band called:  Ellington We are from: Tannum Sands, QLD Our latest release is: ‘More Like A Movie, Less Like Real Life’ EP (2008). Produced by Matt Malpass in Atlanta, USA. People always compare us to: Dashboard Confessional and Lydia. See us live at: Thursday November 27 – Sands Tavern, Sunshine Coast (18+) w/ Something With... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5880 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5880 Birds of Tokyo have announced a huge national tour in March next year. The boys will be touring with Trial Kennedy and will be playing The Arena in Brisbane as the very first show on March 5. Tickets go on sale on the 11th - be quick! http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5863 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5863 There wasn’t a spare seat at the Powerhouse as the soulful Georgia Potter wooed audiences with her captivating folk and reggae. Joined by her band, she brought life to the stage as she sang reverently about social issues and personal philosophies. Georgia provided the perfect precursor to Lior, softening the audience’s soul for what lay ahead. With charming reggae tracks like ‘Take it Down’ and the soul... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5856 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5856 Storms, lighting, flash floods…. Mother Nature gave birth to The Birthday Massacre. Loyal fans sheltered from the rain in The Zoo for the Canadian band’s Australian debut. Fans lined the stage reading the set list and screaming in glee at the impressive line up we had in store. The lights went down and Rhim, O.E and M.Falcore were out first greeted by a huge applause. Owen and Rainbow, all super-charged, pranced onto the... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5843 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5843 My name is: Michael Soininen I’m in a band called: Universum We are from: Adelaide, SA Our latest release is: ‘Leto Destinatus’ People always compare us to: Soilwork, In Flames, Dark Tranquillity Our MySpace is: www.myspace.com/universumband Favourite album released in 2008: Scar Symmetry – ‘Holographic Universe’ Favourite movie released in 2008: ‘Rambo... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5835 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5835 The anticipation to get a taste of Jeff Martin’s latest heavy-rock assault was mounting as the eastern intro rang out of the speakers for Brisbane’s debut of The Armada. With only two tracks heard prior to the night, I was eager to hear if the full banquet would rise to the quality level of past works. They opened with the smashing new single ‘Morocco’ before pulling out a surprise with the heavy as... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5834 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5834 Serj Tankian will be doing Brisbane sideshows to go with his Big Day Out appearances. The System of A Down frontman will also be accompanied by the Fantomas supergroup. He'll will be playing The Tivoli on January 21. http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5833 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5833 Canadians Crystal Castles will be bringing their furious 8-bit electro back to our shores in February. They'll be playing a run of dates around the country, including The Met on February 6. http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5822 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5822 The afternoon thunderstorm and continuing rain didn’t keep anyone from attending this Sunday night concert, with the almost sold-out Tivoli buzzing for Xavier Rudd’s second consecutive Brisbane show. Dallas Frasca warmed up an enthusiastic crowd with her unique blend of blues and roots, followed by a brief appearance from animal rights activist and Sea Shepherd Captain, Paul Watson, who announced that Rudd had won an award... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5821 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5821 V Fest has announced the first round of bands that will be coming to Avica on the Gold Coast for next year's event, with Britain's Kaiser Chiefs at the top of the list. The Killers, Snow Patrol and Mercury Prize winners Elbow are also on the list, with Louis XIV, The Dø, Duffy, Tame Impala, The Temper Trap and Canyons. More acts will be announced - stay tuned. http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5820 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5820 I’m used to reviewing punk and metal shows, so you can imagine my shock when I entered The Tivoli to see full seating in place for this show. There I was, casually seated where Sick Of It All had people performing the infamous ‘Wall of Death’, trying to comprehend this surreal situation. Thankfully, the feeling subsided by the time Alison Moorer took the stage. As Steve’s spouse, it’d be easy... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5819 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5819 Ahoy me hearties! Your favourite swashbuckling reviewer Captain Feathersword is back. It’s been a while since I dipped me quill in some ink to write a review for Tsunami, but the news of Psycroptic playing at the Sands Tavern enticed me to steer me mighty vessel, ‘The Wet Dream’, ashore to sample some of Australia’s finest technical death metal. Me trusty parrot, Gaahly, let out an almighty squawk when... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5818 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5818 When part of your job description is reviewing live music, gigs can get a bit predictable after a while. Those expecting another run-of-the-mill Sunday night show at the Sands on this charged and stormy evening got a lot more than they’d bargained for. Proceedings got off to a relatively normal start – if you don’t count the lone, over-excited punter who pole-axed himself on the barrier before most people had... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5817 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5817 By all reasonable logic, The Haunted should be the sort of band that sells out The Arena every time they play. They have a slew of great albums behind them, a heavy metal pedigree that puts most others to shame, and a live show that never fails to deliver. But, much as it was last time, The Arena was sparsely populated for the return of these mighty Swedes. Nevertheless, with two albums in the catalogue since their last visit, I was eager to... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5800 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5800 WHOLE – If animals had a conception of the Devil, he would surely have human form By Polly “If anyone wants to save the planet, all they have to do is stop eating meat.  That’s the single most important thing you can do.  It’s staggering when you think about it. Vegetarianism tasks care of so many things in one shot: ecology, famine, cruelty”. Paul McCartney Humans... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5779 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5779 My name is: Ben Hassell    I’m in a band called: TRAPS My band mates are: Matt Edge, Kieran Day, Tain  We are from: Sydney Our latest release is: Common Errors    People always compare us to: Dead Kennedys, ? See us live at: The Globe Theatre, Brisbane, Thursday November 20 The Sands Tavern, Sunshine Coast, Saturday November 22 The Great Northern, Byron Bay,... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5778 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5778 My name is: Cameron Potts I’m in a band called: Dead Letter Chorus My band mates are: Michael Faber (guitar), Gabrielle Huber (Vocals, Piano, Guitar), Andrew Rose (Bass), Lee Carey (Drums) We are from: Sydney Our latest release is: ‘The August Magnificent’. Debut album out now on CodeOne/MGM People always compare us to: Arcade Fire, Neil Young, Explosions In The Sky, Emmylou Harris, Fleet Foxes, John... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5776 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5776 Mogwai have announced sideshows to their Golden Plains appearance - including a Brisbane date in March. The Scottish group are renowned for the power and 'epicness' of their live shows, and will be rocking the Tivoli on March 3rd. They sold out their last tour in 2006, so get on the tickets quickly. http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5771 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5771 Jose Gonzalez is returning to our shores next year to melt hearts around the country. The Swede is bringing his moody but beautiful acoustic folk to the Powerhouse on Saturday February 7th. Stay tuned for more details.   http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6136 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=6136 Propagandhi are finally dragging their politically charged punk rock arses back to Australia. If you've ever set ears on this band you know you will be there! It has only been 11 years since they last turned themselves loose upon us. So were they lazy? Did they not care? Maybe they crave forgiveness - this tour takes in more cities than most. Enjoy while you can...   http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5825 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5825 UNIVERSUM Leto Destinatus (Independent) 7/10 Universum sent us this CD in a lavish promotional pack, and after reading the handily-included press sheet, I was fearful that this was gonna be your average mosh-band-gone-metal fare that’s making the rounds this week. But I’m happy to say I was totally wrong. Listening to ‘Leto Destinatus’ it’s hard to believe Universum have been a band for... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5740 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5740 My name is: Johnny Galvatron (vocals/guitar) I’m in a band called: The Galvatrons We are from: Melbourne Rock City The best looking person in the band is: Gamma (keyboards). He’s an African Adonis. Our latest release is: ‘Robots are Cool’ (free download) People always compare us to: Mega triumphant transforming robots. See us live at: The Brisbane Entertainment Centre on November 8 (with Def... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5739 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5739 My name is: Cas (drummer) I’m in a band called: Taken By The Silence We are from: Brisbane The best looking person in the band is: Me. No, Aidan. No, it’s Mike. Hang on, Shane? We're all ridiculously good looking. Zoolander is like the Elephant Man compared to us. Our latest release is: an EP which we are currently working on. It’s coming soon. People always compare us to: an amalgam of the... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5738 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5738 My name is: Chris (Vocals) I’m in a band called: Stealing O’neal We are from: Melbourne The best looking person in the band is: Our tour manager Pees. Don’t be fooled by the name… seriously. Our latest release is: ‘Collidescope’ EP – out now via BNM Records. People always compare us to: Immature children. See us live at: The Great Northern Hotel, Byron Bay on... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5737 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5737 My name is: Anika Moa I’m from: New Zealand The best looking person in the band is: Me My latest release is: ‘In Swings the Tide’ – out now via Inertia. People always compare me to: Celine Dion MySpace: www.myspace.com/anikamoa What's one thing everyone should know about your music? You don't need to be drunk to enjoy it. Will you be participating in Movember? I've already started. I'm a... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5736 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5736 UNEARTH After a trial separation from producer Adam D (of Killswitch Engage fame), Massachusetts five-piece metal band Unearth have risen from the claustrophobic studio box with their fourth album, ‘The March’. Melissa Spurgin spoke to drummer Derek Kerswill ahead of the boys hitting our shores for the Soundwave Festival in February. You’ve just released your fourth album, ‘The March’ -... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5735 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5735 Sit back and relax, you’re about to hear a modern day fairy tale. A rags (not really) to riches (definitely) story of a young Sunshine Coast boy who had a dream of pumping dance music into the ears of every male and female under the sun. This dream was realised when he was voted the 2008 #1 DJ in Australia by inthemix.com. Melissa Spurgin spoke to 21-year-old Tyson Illingworth, otherwise known as DJ tyDi. Congratulations on... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5734 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5734 THE SCREAMING JETS The Screaming Jets have seen members come and go and several management changes throughout their lucrative 19 year career. But the release of their sixth album, ‘Do Ya’, is proof these Aussie rockers are only getting better with age. Lead singer Dave Gleeson spoke to Tsunami’s Carolyn Garner about the new album and the band’s evolution over the years. There has been an eight... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5733 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5733 THE ORB From their beginnings as Paul Oakenfold’s guests at the legendary Heaven nightclub in London, through to becoming icons of the British ambient scene, The Orb remain a defining group in the worldwide electronic community. Tsunami caught up with founding member Alex Patterson in anticipation of their appearance at Global Gathering. By Greg Reason “I’ve just done a phenomenally amazing tune taking... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5732 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5732 The Australian music industry is a harsh place. Overnight success stories are non-existent. For every band that makes it far enough to be signed to a label, release a debut full-length, or gain national radio play on the hallowed Triple J, there’s a hundred others that fall by the wayside. Through sheer determination and painstaking persistence, Brisbane garage blues duo The Blackwater Fever have battled through the pleasure and... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5730 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5730 TEXAS TEA When I first heard I was interviewing a band called Texas Tea, it immediately made me want to slap my thigh and make ‘Beverly Hillbillies’ jokes (watch yar ‘ed granny!). Now that’s out of my system, I can tell you about a sweet and soulful little Brisbane country duo, far removed from any of the stereotypes. I spoke to Ben Dougherty about the new album and the Australian country music... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5728 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5728 SOULFLY Sepultura’s ‘Roots’ and Soulfly’s self-titled are two albums that defined great metal in the late ‘90s, just as ‘Beneath the Remains’ did in the late ‘80s. It’s a whole new decade, but Soulfly’s new album ‘Conquer’ does little to suggest Max Cavalera is ever going to run out of passion or power. Jake 3 was lucky... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5727 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5727 SOMETHING WITH NUMBERS After going from their humble beginnings on the Central Coast to recording with a world renowned producer in New York, Something With Numbers are ready to take over Australia again with their third album, ‘Engineering the Soul’. Vocalist Jake Griggs took some time out from preparations for their national tour to chat with Tim Chapman about the new record, his hometown scene and getting mistaken... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5726 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5726 PAUL VAN DYK Paul van Dyk (PVD) was recently ranked No. 1 DJ in the world by DJ Magazine’s Top 100 DJs Poll for the second consecutive year and has won this year’s International Dance Music Award (IDMA) for Best Euro DJ. But, as Luke Davison discovered, this very busy man does a lot more than just producing and DJing around the globe. PVD is on a break from an American tour at the time of our conversation. I start... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5725 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5725 PARKWAY DRIVE Once upon a time five friends got together in the cruisy surf town of Byron Bay and started writing some heavy tunes, playing shows in friends’ backyards, and performing to a handful of kids at any venue that would give them a chance. Then Resist Records saw the opportunity to let a few big names stop off in the small town for shows and the genre started to blossom. What resulted was the biggest metalcore act this... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5724 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5724 LYNCH MOB From cult heavy metal band Dokken in the ‘80s to his current crew Lynch Mob, George Lynch is known as a guitar player’s guitar player. Jen Anderson caught up with George as he finished working on his most recent instructional guitar DVD. Do you remember how you came up with the song ‘Mr Scary’? Yeah, that original idea came into be as a vocal song. I have the tape of Dok singing that... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5723 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5723 LOWRIDER Not long after supporting Christina Aguilera on her 2007 tour, Adelaide’s Lowrider are set to join Alicia Keys on her Australian tour next month.  Lowrider drummer Paul Bartlett spoke to Tsunami’s Carolyn Garner about their unlikely choice as support band for two of America’s leading songstresses and their latest album, ‘Diamond Amongst the Thieves’. The Bartlett... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5722 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5722 LAGWAGON It’s hard to believe the once youthful pop-punkers that sparked a generation of quality punk in the early nineties are now family men and considered veterans of the scene. That may be the case for Californian five-piece Lagwagon but, as vocalist and main songwriter Joey Cape tells Gav Britton from his San Francisco home, there’s still life in the old dog yet – just as long as they can stay away from... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5721 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5721 JET As Jet prepare for their long-awaited return to the stage at this year’s Odyssey event, frontman Nic Cester tells Steve Tauschke how re-working an Australian rock classic has refuelled the band’s musical passion. To be selected as the band to revive ‘50s rocker Johnny O’Keefe’s iconic single ‘The Wild One’ in celebration of Australian rock ‘n’... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5720 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5720 IRRELEVANT Irrelevant have been kicking out punk and hardcore tunes for over 10 years now. In that time, they’ve seen many bands and styles come and go. Their longevity is testament to their hard work, dedicated following, and most importantly, their kick-ass tunes. As they prepare to take on the nation again, drummer Michael Anderson caught up with Tim Chapman to talk about the band’s career thus far and recording the... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5719 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5719 GOJIRA ‘Unique’ is a term that gets thrown around a bit too often these days, but it’s one that definitely applies to French four-piece Gojira. After all, how many other bands sing about flying whales and saving the environment while playing earth shuddering riffs? To quote a Kiwi rapper, “Not many, if any”. By Gav Britton After forming in 1996, it took Gojira nearly a decade to... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5718 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5718 FAKER They are famous for heart attacks, sleepwalking and being magnetic. They are Faker and they are hitting Brisvegas for the Stereosonic festival. Bass player Nic Munnings got on the blower to give Tsunami an update on the tour, the next album and to give some festival advice for first timers. By Vivienne Hill “Stock up on glow sticks,” advises Munnings. “It’s really the best way to go for... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5717 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5717 When he’s not crooning for one of metal’s most emotionally charged and brilliant bands, Katatonia, Jonas Renkse can be found playing bass for death metal supergroup Bloodbath. Hot women, long summer days, unbelievably talented musicians – oh to be Swedish… By Gav Britton They might have started off as a drunken homage to old-school death metal between long-time friends Mikael... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5716 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5716 1 GIANT LEAP In a world where the consumer market is being driven by an insatiable need for the next mindless fad at the click of a button, products with a sense of purpose, meaning and the ability to change peoples’ lives for the better are a rare commodity. ‘What About Me?’, the new multi-media project from 1 Giant Leap duo Jamie Catto and Duncan Bridgeman, is one such product. By Gav Britton Four... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5715 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5715 SEX DRIVE Josh Zuckerman, Amanda Crew, Clark Duke, James Marsden 7/10 High school senior Ian (Josh Zuckerman) has decided to drive cross-country with his best friends, the self-confessed love machine Lance (Clark Duke) and pretty girl-next-door Felicia (Amanda Crew), to hook up with a supposedly hot girl he’s met on the internet. Along the way, their car – actually the car belongs to Ian’s brother, a... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5714 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5714 ROCKNROLLA Gerard Butler, Thandie Newton, Tom Wilkinson 8/10 ‘RocknRolla’ is ‘Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels’ on acid or, to cite a more recent example, ‘Snatch’ on Redbull. It's insanely fast, frenzied and high-spirited fun. Thank God Madonna let her husband off the leash to do something fun again (and something she didn't insist on appearing in). It's brilliantly... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5713 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5713 DYING BREED Nathan Phillips, Leigh Whannell, Mirrah Foulkes 4/10 If you’ve seen ‘Wrong Turn’, ‘The Texas Chainsaw Massacre’ or ‘Cabin Fever’ – in fact, any of those yankie films about dumb kids that head out to the sticks and get more than they bargained for - you’ve seen the Aussie version. (Though, besides a meat pie made of human remains,... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5422 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5422 Widely regarded as the greatest hip-hop artist to emerge from the UK, the mercurial Roots Manuva’s fourth studio album, ‘Slime & Reason’, emerges after a turbulent three years of his personal life. The man otherwise known as Rodney Smith was waking from a heavy post-party slumber when Richard Buck caught up with him. Being raised in a strict Christian household where going to church was a daily... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=3106 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=3106 LIOR If musicians really do think of their albums as their babies, then singer-songwriter Lior has had one hell of a gestation period. Not that you can blame him. If you gave birth to one of the most beloved Australian albums to emerge from the past 10 years, then you’d be pretty wary too. What if this one was ugly? What if it didn’t make any friends? Tsunami’s Melissa Spurgin found out how he got through the... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5690 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5690 The Big Day Out has announced its second lineup, with Serj Tankian, Dropkick Murphy's and Hot Chip joining the already bulging lineup. Obviously it's cold comfort for those that missed out on tickets to the sold-out Gold Coast show, but the rest of the announcement includes: BLACK KIDS, LUPE FIASCO, HOLY GHOST!, Z*TRIP, DIED PRETTY, THE VINES, INFUSION, CHILDREN COLLIDE, PEE WEE FERRIS, SPARKADIA, THE GETAWAY PLAN, LITTLE RED, MAMMAL, MERCY... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5689 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5689 My name is: Matt Ridgway I’m in a band called: Winterpark My band mates are: Jordy Hewitt, Alice McBroom and Kate Ritchens. We are from: Melbourne Our latest release is: ‘Falling Men and Flying Dreams’. People always compare us to: lately it’s been the Cocteau Twins, but I’m not so sure about that. I think it has something to do with my Boss Dimension C pedal. See us live at:... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5688 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5688 My name is: Tim Harvey I’m in a band called: Hot Little Hands My band mates are: James, Brigitte, Raph, Royce We are from: Melbourne Our latest release is: ‘Dynamite in Black and White’ People always compare us to: Quincy Jones See us live at: 7th Nov @ Great Northern (Byron) and 8th Nov @ Uber (Bris), Our MySpace is: http://www.myspace.com/hotlittlehands My favourite album is: ‘Pacific Ocean... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5687 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5687 What a line-up. Kicking off the night was Cleveland-based Bone Thugs-n-Harmony; the group that changed the way hip-hop sounded during the early nineties and formed a mass following along the way. One member down (Bizzy Bone), the other three original members plus their DJ got the near-capacity crowd bouncing with mostly early material. The guys paid homage to fellow rap collaborators such as Easy E, Tupac and Biggie. Promising to come back... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5686 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5686 My name is: Tom Richardson I’m in a band called: Tom Richardson (Solo) Tom Richardson Project (Band) My band mates are: Brenton Smith (Drums) Brenton Gillies (Bass)  We are from: Warrnambool VIC Our latest release is: ‘Evolution’ (2008) People always compare us to: The Beautiful Girls, Ash Grunwald See us live at: Thurs Nov 13:  Pacific Hotel, Yamba (NSW) Fri Nov 14:... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5682 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5682 TALIB KWELI Live at the Shrine (Shock) 7/10 ‘Live at the Shrine’, Talib Kweli’s first ever live release, is undoubtedly another piece that showcases his vast ability and cements his place as one of the most gifted and respected MCs in hip-hop. Kweli’s rapping is flawless throughout, but unfortunately this release does in part suffer from the live hip-hop DVD curse that has time and again plagued... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5681 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5681 DIMMU BORGIR The Invaluable Darkness (Nuclear Blast/Riot) 3/10 Let’s face it: this band lost their appeal a long time ago. Once a strong figure in Norway’s black metal scene circa the early ‘90s, Dimmu Borgir gradually lost everything that made them great. We’re now  left with unimaginative riffing, over-reliance on keyboards and Vortex’s clean vocals, and overblown symphonic... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5680 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5680 1 GIANT LEAP What About Me? (One World Music) 9/10 Rarely do you take much more away from a movie or television series than a little short-lived entertainment value. Well, prepare to be enlightened. The second project for UK based producers/film makers 1 Giant Leap will leave viewers pondering life’s big questions and insights long after the film and seven-part series double DVD is over. On this trans-global film making/music... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5679 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5679 THUNDAMENTALS Self-titled (Obese Records) 6/10 Thundamentals are the latest signing to Australian hip-hop powerhouse Obese Records. Lurking in the background for some time, the Blue Mountain crew give us our first taste of things to come with this debut self-titled EP. But this is where the problem lies: rather than give us a three course meal of new and interesting flavours, we get an entree that’s fresh but contains the same... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5678 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5678 THE TEMPER TRAP Sweet Disposition (Liberation) 8/10 It’s great to hear a young band really using their gifts to full potential. The Temper Trap are doing just that. Frontman Dougy has an amazing set of lungs, but it’s the subtlety with which he exercises his voice that really gives TT their power. Rather than try to blast you out of the room like some of their earlier tracks (‘My Sun’),... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5677 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5677 THE E.L.F Sunray in the Rave Cave (Oaks/MGM) 1/10 As someone who was (and still is) an enormous Gerling fan, listening to this EP was about as disillusioning as it gets. ‘Sunray in the Rave Cave’ is almost painful to the ears from start to finish. This is an abomination. Darren Cross was possibly the loosest of the three Gerling guys, but even still, I can’t wrap my head around how many drugs... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5676 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5676 PURITY DEVICE Self-titled EP (myspace.com/puritydevice) 9/10 This dark little taste from Purity Device’s forthcoming album, ‘The Single Act of Being’, is a surprise to say the least. Starting off with a histrionic mash of NIN, Muse and Autechre on ‘Rivers of Enkephalin’, the EP then takes an unexpected detour into moody electronic pop-rock territory ala A Perfect Circle, before drifting... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5675 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5675 CONFIG|SYS PROJECT The Super Beast CDR 8/10 From what dark corner of hell did this track come from? I don’t really care if Config|Sys Project sold their soul to the devil to produce this dark and driving re-work of Rob Zombie’s classic, because the combination of Psy-inspired kick drum and bassline, thrashing guitars, and sharp synth work is enough to turn any 3am dancefloor of ravers into a seething mass of... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5674 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5674 ARMEN FIRMAN Your Name In My Skin (Creative Vibes) 9/10 Much like that super-hot girl from high school who would never give you the time of day, Armen Firman’s sound is difficult to nail. Kings of Leon has been thrown around a bit, but that’s not quite on the money. Sure, the Melbourne five-piece blend ridiculously catchy rockers (‘In the Water’) with stirring, slow-paced balladry... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5672 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5672 ANDREW KENNEDY Running Stumbling Bumbling Bursting (Broken Toy Records) 8/10 This delightful pop EP from Brisbane singer/songwriter Andrew Kennedy is basically six tracks of poetry. His lyrics are outstanding – honest and beautiful, and while the music isn’t exactly an original sound, it supports Kennedy’s voice fantastically. ‘Suicide Tuesday’, the first single and ode to the weekend,... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5671 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5671 VARIOUS ARTISTS Easy Fever: A Tribute to The Easybeats and Stevie Wright (Virgin/EMI) 9/10 In the 1960s, The Easybeats were the first big Aussie band that tried to conquer the world. But a lot of you reading this are probably too young to even know who they are. Since then, they’ve produced the greats like AC/DC, Rose Tattoo and INXS. So it’s about time someone gave them a bit of a salute for what they have done for... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5670 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5670 TEX PERKINS & HIS LADYBOYZ No 1's & No 2's (Universal) 1/10 Yes, they are sexy men. Yes, they are great musicians in their own right. Yes, they wear white especially well (if they had yellow teeth they would look like something out of a John Paul Young film clip).  And yes this outfit is one hell of a piss take. But the problem is, at best, the material is only mildly funny. The album’s purpose is to... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5669 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5669 THE GIFTHORSE S/T (Poison City) 8/10 I’m a bit biased when it comes to this band. I’ve seen them around Brisbane quite a few times and knew this was gonna be one hell of a record well prior to its release. For those unfamiliar with these local dudes, The Gifthorse play a driving, melodic brand of punk rock drawing influence from Hot Water Music, Jawbreaker and their ilk. They also put a personal touch to it in the... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5668 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5668 THE FAINT Fascination (Pod/Inertia) 7/10 Strangely coming across as goofy and intelligent at the same time, The Faint carve out minimal electro-pop songs that bounce this way and that as if in competition with the blips, bloops and beats that make ‘Fascination’ so endearing. The vocals become irritating quite early in the piece, but thankfully there is enough substance in the finely tuned mechanics behind it all to... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5667 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5667 THE AMITY AFFLICTION Severed Ties (Boomtown/Staple) 8.5/10 Hardcore and metalcore are genres that have gone from strength to strength in recent times. But in an ever-growing genre, it is hard to find music that is unique and different. Every now and then though, there is a record that blows your mind. The Amity Affliction’s first full-length does just that. Combining furious beats with frenetic and melodic riffs, the perfect... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5666 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5666 SSS The Dividing Line (Earache/Riot) 7/10 Next time you and your friends head out to shred some asphalt, you’d be well advised to bring a copy of this CD along for the ride to pop in the boom-box, precariously perched at the edge of the concrete bowl. Simply put, this is some high-grade crossover thrash that stays well on the hardcore/punk side of things, not to mention one hell of a refreshing listen. For the last few years... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5665 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5665 SPOD Superfrenz (Valve/MGM) 7.5/10 Sydney electro hip-hop nerd Spod hasn’t let losing most of this album to hard-drive suicide get him down. His titular ‘super friends’, who organised a fundraiser to reconstruct the entire album from scratch, have made this follow-up to ‘Taste The Radness’ possible. And thank Zeus they did, because ‘Superfrenz’ contains some Spodly... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5664 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5664 SNOW PATROL A Hundred Million Suns 8.5/10 (Polydor/Universal) The heartfelt ‘Signal Fire’ may have been wasted on the ‘Spiderman 3’ soundtrack, but its quality was a promising sign that Snow Patrol could deliver another solid record full of instant hits. With its pockets of acoustic melancholy, 2006’s ‘Eyes Open’ was the prime appetiser for the palette of styles the... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5663 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5663 SKIPPING GIRL VINEGAR Sift The Noise (Popboomerang/MGM) 7/10 Remember that song ‘Happy Birthday Helen’ by Things of Stone & Wood? Well, Skipping Girl Vinegar, with their earthy, pleasantly Australian sound, remind me a bit of that band. Not surprising then that former TOSAW frontman Greg Arnold had a hand in producing ‘Sift The Noise’, the debut album from these Melbournites.... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5662 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5662 SCOTT MATTHEW Self-titled (Longtime Listener/Fuse) 7.5/10 Being compared with Antony & The Johnsons must get tiring for Scott Matthew, but for this Australian born singer it must also be a source of pride. His soulful voice and emotive delivery are immediately engaging – there are elements of Rufus Wainwright in the simplicity of the arrangements he backs these tunes with. The end result is a powerfully moving album... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5661 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5661 P.O.D. When Angels and Serpents Dance (P.O.D. Records) 8/10 Apparently P.O.D. have released two albums since 2001’s international hit ‘Satellite’ but, to be honest, I didn’t notice. With this record, however, the band are standing up to be counted. Welcoming back guitarist Marcos Curiel from an extended absence, ‘When Angels and Serpents Dance’ is one of the band’s... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5660 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5660 PICO Morning Sun (Bombora) 7/10 Surfing, writing music and travelling the world sounds like a lifestyle that just about anyone would dream about as a job. Aussie surfer, songwriter and musician Pico is back with his fifth album since his debut ‘Ghost Flowers’ hit the shelves over 10 years ago. With a very laidback guitar driven sound, ‘Morning Sun’ has been put together with the help of some big... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5659 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5659 OASIS Dig Out Your Soul (Big Brother/SonyBMG) 5/10 It’s rare that a band stops when they should, so they can depart on their strongest record. History won’t remember Oasis fondly for this. The Gallagher brothers have released five albums since 1995’s ‘Morning Glory’, and each one has been as uninspiring and predictable as the last. Nothing has ever come close to the sonic energy of... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5658 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5658 MOGWAI The Hawk Is Howling (Spunk/EMI) 8/10 As the quiet-loud-louder dynamic of post-rock quickly becomes as predictable as the tired rock structures that the genre was trying to break free of, where can a band like Mogwai go? On latest outing ‘The Hawk Is Howling’, these Glaswegians have completely eschewed vocals and even sound bites, making this their first purely instrumental album. There’re few of the... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5657 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5657 MERCURY REV Snowflake Midnight (V2/Shock) 8/10 Ten years since their breakthrough ‘Deserter’s Songs’ and Mercury Rev are still trying to match the delicate optimism that Kermit the Frog nailed on ‘The Rainbow Connection’. But as fair an effort as 2005’s ‘The Secret Migration’ was, there was something about its unabashed bombast, coupled with the showtune... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5656 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5656 MADLIB THE BEAT KONDUCTA WILB AM: King of the Wigflip (Rapster/Inertia) 8/10 Maverick producer Madlib takes a diversion from his left-field beat excursions to re-trace his roots in early ‘90s west coast hip-hop and R&B on the final edition of the Beat Generation series.  Heavy sample-based editing that splices up jazz instrumentation with electronica and a melange of vocal snippets lends a tripped-out, blunt... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5655 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5655 KEANE Perfect Symmetry (Universal) 7/10 Apprehension filled the room as ‘Perfect Symmetry’ was swallowed by the CD player. Please don’t let this be shit, I begged silently. There is nothing more disappointing than absolutely loving a song, as I do with ‘Spiralling’, only to find the album that spawned it is a dud. It’s like meeting a sexy, charming, hilarious boy only to... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5654 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5654 KAZ JAMES If They Knew (Sony BMG) 5/10 Kaz James has gone all out on his first record, dragging in help from Macy Gray, The Last Goodnight, Stu Stone and DJ Lethal. ‘If They Knew’ isn’t a bad album for lovers of dance, although Kaz has definitely stuck between the lines, giving off a safe, commercial club vibe. All the synth effects are sounds that everyone has heard before. Nothing sounds out of the... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5653 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5653 JESS MCAVOY As The Sun Falls (Henduwin Music) 4/10 Jess McAvoy’s second album sounds like someone is singing karaoke the whole way through it. Combine Missy Higgins, Laura Marling and some cheesy country singer and you get Jess McAvoy. The only difference is that Missy Higgins and Laura Marling (arguably) don’t have that tacky country vibe about them. ‘As the Sun Falls’ sounds like an amateur... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5652 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5652 JACKSON JACKSON Tools For Survival (Virgin/EMI) 4/10 My biggest criticism of Jackson Jackson is that their albums always appear patchy. It was noticeable on their first album, ‘The Fire Is on the Bird’; a few great songs (‘Eliza’) were clouded with others that simply weren’t that enjoyable. The same is the case for ‘Tools For Survival’. When Harry Angus and Jan... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5651 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5651 IDA MARIA Fortress Round My Heart (Sony BMG) 8/10 It’s the girl who likes you so much better when you’re naked. But don’t go stripping your clothes off just yet because Ida has a lot of other good stuff on this album you probably should hear first. Ida sings like a throaty, alcoholic 23-year-old Norwegian for around 30 minutes, displaying some punchy guitar pop with oodles of attitude. Ida has dark hair,... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5650 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5650 I AM GHOST Those We Leave Behind (Epitaph/Shock) -37/10 There is only one way I can adequately describe just how awful this record is, and that is to go into character as Gunnery Sergeant Hartman: You little fucking maggots! You make me wanna vomit! How dare you call yourselves a screamo/hardcore band when you’re just four pieces of makeup-wearing My Chemical Romance wannabe pieces of trash! How long is this piece of crap... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5649 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5649 HERMITUDE Threads (Elefant Traks/Inertia) 7.5/10 Sydney beat makers El Gusto and Luke Dubs comprise the duo of Hermitude. Now into their third album, they have built themselves a reputation for crafting some of the finest detailed instrumental hip-hop productions that take influence from Cuban, dub, jazz, soul and classical music. This is where ‘Threads’ takes a distinct deviation from their previous work as electro... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5648 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5648 HEIDI ELVA Ships and Trees (Vitamin) 7/10 Delicate. Gentle. Intimate. Dreamy. Soothing... If silhouettes had sound, Heidi Elva’s ‘Ships and Tree’s would be it. The album is sparse, with hints of darkness and sadness. Ten ambient and folk-laced tracks of beautiful compositions and lyrical poetry, Elva has created an album that truly defines what sound is. Mainly guitar and voice, the album features... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5647 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5647 GZA/GENIUS Pro Tools (Shogun) 7.5/10 The hip-hop legend GZA the Genius has returned to demonstrate his superior vocabulary and flow with solo album number five. The Wu’s conscious rapper, GZA has been one of the most consistent members of The Clan since his groundbreaking ‘Liquid Swords’, and ‘Pro Tools’ is no exception to the rule. While the monotonous ‘0% Finance’... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5646 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5646 GOJIRA The Way of All Flesh (Listenable/Stomp) 5 French Horns Bonjour! My name is Phillip Mecraque and I am Tsunami’s French ‘eavy metal correspondent. I am France’s version of zee ‘Metal God’ and have an intimate understanding of zee French tongue, zerefore I thought I would be the best man to review my countrymen’s new release, ‘The Way of All Flesh’. I... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5645 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5645 FUCKED UP The Chemistry of Common Life (Matador/Remote Control) 9/10 Fucked Up are the undisputed kings of simultaneously subverting hardcore and improving it in the process. While much of the unorthodox instrumentation that was heard on previous full-length ‘Hidden World’ is missing on here, this time around these sections are filled in by a third guitar player and more multi-tracked layers and harmonies than you... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5644 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5644 FI CLAUS Bijoux (Independent) 8/10 Fi Claus’ debut album, ‘Bijoux’, is the perfect mix of upbeat pop and folky love ballads, and her unique voice lends to a distinctly Australian sound. Laidback and cheerful, the album is perfect for a summertime release. ‘Bijoux’ is full of playful and bubbly songs such as opener ‘Get It’ and ‘Perfect Day’, both... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5643 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5643 ENSLAVED Vertebrae (Nuclear Blast/Riot) 9/10 It’s been an interesting journey watching Norway’s Enslaved slowly transform from the traditional black metal band that shared a split EP with Emperor way back in 1993 to the progressive black metal equivalent of Opeth that they are today. Their amazing evolution reaches a new level on album number 10, ‘Vertebrae’, so much so that the slightest hint... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5642 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5642 DREADLOCK COWBOY Self-titled (Independent) 6.5/10 In a saturated market of singer-songwriter guitarists, does the Dreadlock Cowboy (aka Hayley Small) have what it takes to break through? Is this girl, who has quite a bit of gig experience, pixie shaped ears and alternative appeal, unforgettable? Quite possibly. Appearance aside, I admire her ability to go beyond the guitar and craft well-developed pieces of music, preferring to... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5641 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5641 DUNGEN 4 (Subliminal Sounds/Dew Process) 8/10 Dungen’s very creatively-titled fourth album cuts right to the chase. They are a psychedelic rock band and they make absolutely no bones about it. While the idea of being psych rockers in 2008 might sound a little bit like you’re living in the past, there’s something very futuristic about the sound of this album - even if it’s drenched in fuzz and... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5640 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5640 DR. DOOOM Dr. Dooom 2 (Threshold/Shogun) 8/10 I'm going to choose my words very carefully here. It’s not just because I suspect this album has been written by an alien being who has stumbled across our little planet and decided to take the piss out of us by posing as a hip-hop artist. The real reason I'm writing with a bit of trepidation is because Dr. Dooom makes it quite clear what he thinks of music journalists. On... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5639 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5639 DAVID HOLMES The Holy Pictures (Mercury/Universal) 6/10 David Holmes has made a name for himself as of late for doing the soundtracks to the ‘Oceans 11/12/13’ films, but ‘The Holy Pictures’ is the first solo album from the Irish DJ for quite some time. The album surprisingly has less of an electro DJ feel and sounds more like it is being played by an actual band, with Holmes even lending his own... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5638 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5638 BRIAN WILSON That Lucky Old Sun (Capitol/EMI) 8.5/10 Having exorcised his demons via the completion of the long-lost Beach Boys album ‘Smile’, Brian Wilson was finally able to move on. It’s been decades since Wilson has sounded so happy and confident, and his songwriting – while never suffering too greatly from his ailments – is in top gear again. Despite the fact that this is a concept... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5637 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5637 BRETT DENNEN Hope for the Hopeless (Downtown/ Inertia) 6/10 You gotta love someone who can turn those awkward, high-pitched voice farts frequently made by prepubescent boys sound like beautiful music. Especially when it’s not some spotty youth, but a 28-year-old Californian red-head hailed as the next Jack Johnson. Brett Dennen’s third studio album, ‘Hope for the Hopeless’, starts off strong,... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5636 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5636 BLOODBATH The Fathomless Mastery (Peaceville/Stomp) 7.5/10 Supergroups are weird beasts. They rarely equal their sum of their parts. Unfortunately this is true in Bloodbath’s case, although you get the feeling it’s due to the band members’ hectic schedules and not a lack of talent. What started as a drunken death metal tribute act between members of Opeth and Katatonia back in 1999 has become a rather... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5635 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5635 BLITZEN TRAPPER Furr (Sub Pop/Stomp) 8.5/10 Blitzen Trapper’s name and logo on the album cover are a bit misleading. No, they are not German and no, they are not metal. They’re quite the opposite of both of these in fact. ‘Furr’ is the Portland sextet’s fourth album (first on a major label, though) and is a warm blend of earthy Americana and experimental folk. Known for their blend of... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5634 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5634 BLEEDING THROUGH Declaration (Trustkill/Shock) 3/10 Devin Townsend is the Phil Spector of extreme metal – he’s a brilliant producer that also happens to be batshit crazy. Unlike Spector, who releases his crazies by putting guns to people’s heads and generally being a nutbar, Townsend instead puts it into his material; a much less illegal and costly method of doing so that seemingly isn’t limited... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5633 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5633 ARROWS Modern Art & Politics (Hobbledehoy) 8/10 One EP, a split, and now this: Arrow’s debut full-length album. A certain few may remember these four lads playing under the name December Waiting years ago, but Arrows are a standalone entity, a point furthered by the high quality of the material on this disc. ‘Modern Art & Politics’ sees them doing away with the darker sound of their split... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5632 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5632 ANGE TAKATS Aniseed Tea (Independent) 8/10 The artwork is beautiful, her music enchanting and her songs revealing. Ange Takats succeeds where most singer-songwriters fail. Not only does she invite the audience into her world, but she entertains them at the same time. Standout tracks include the upbeat ‘Good Woman’, a ditty about a nudist called ‘Barry’ and closing track ‘Ange’,... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5631 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5631 ALEX LLOYD Good In the Face of a Stranger (Sony BMG) 4/10 For those of you who loved Alex Lloyd’s earlier work, you will be pleased to hear that this album is exactly the same as what he has done before; just a little more stripped down. But sticking to his original guns and playing it safe has produced what tends to be a mediocre comeback from the soloist. The title of the first single ‘Slow Train’... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5527 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5527 THE BRAVE Something Coming Over Me (Aisle 6) 8/10 The Brave have stepped out confidently and released their first EP. The title track definitely makes something ‘come over you’ when you slip it into your CD player and press play. The Brave seem to have just the right balance between typical Aussie commercial rock and alternative garage band. The themes on the record are very deep, covering the big life issues such as... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5511 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5511 SWITCH 3 Calm Before (Independent) 7/10 With more musical talent to back up than your average rock outfit, Switch 3 have produced an interesting and surprisingly adept album. The opening track, ‘Last Day’, shows off the band’s strong points with solid guitar work and an endearing bonus of a keys interlude. Lyrically the arrangement sometimes feels awkward and over-artsy. Vocalist Maf Davis does present... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5509 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5509 PEZ A Mind of My Own (Soulmate Records/Inertia) 9/10 Show me a more well-rounded solo debut album from an Australian rapper and I'll consider minimising the calls I'm about to make. Go ahead, check the archives. Melbourne emcee Pez has done what so many long-time artists are still yet to achieve: a widely appealing album with substance, flair and great production. The songwriting, at times, could be envied by even the most revered... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5505 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5505 KINGS OF LEON Only By the Night (Sony BMG) 9/10 If dirty, no-holds-barred sex had a soundtrack, this would be it. And not just because of the song named 'Sex on Fire'. Caleb Followill has refined his sensual wail - it's now better than ever on this fourth studio album from Kings of Leon. Standout vocalists can sometimes outshine their band (think Ian Kenny and Birds of Tokyo), but not here. Nathan, Jared and Matthew more than hold their... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5504 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5504 JOLIE HOLLAND The Living and the Dead (Anti/Shock) 4/10 Known for her folk-country, blues and jazz-infused songs and distinct voice, Jolie Holland’s fourth studio album, ‘The Living and the Dead’ is, unfortunately, rather average. Comprising of mostly laidback acoustic tracks about lovers come and gone, ‘The Living and the Dead’ sounds uninspired overall. While it’s pleasing to... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5503 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5503 Ill Bill The Hour Of Reprisal (Uncle Howie Records/Shogun) 8.5/10 As soon as the intro track commences, any long-time Ill Bill fan will come to the immediate realisation just how much he has improved in every facet since his debut release. Thanks to long time Wu-Tang mix engineer Carlos Bess, this is by far the most sonically polished release from Uncle Howie Records to date. The overwhelming amount of features (13 in 18 songs)... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5501 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5501 DOWNSYDE All City (Illusive Sounds) 8/10 Four years after ‘When the Dust Settles’, Downsyde return to us on a new label with the same old WA funk fans have grown to love. From ‘Watucamehere 4 (featuring Guru)’ to the album’s lead single, ‘Fortune & Fame’, we get that typical Downsyde party sound. But this time around I definitely feel a little more maturity... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5500 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5500 DEVILUTION Welcome (Independent) 9/10 Devilution’s much-anticipated debut album, ‘Welcome’, is set for release on Halloween, complimenting their next tour, taking the Sydney scene by the throat for a ride into the heart of devil country. ‘Welcome’ showcases the band’s versatility from refined poetry and emotional arrangements in ‘Last Laugh’, to blood... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5499 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5499 CRADLE OF FILTH Godspeed on the Devil’s Thunder (Roadrunner) 5/10 Things were looking quite promising for Cradle of Filth’s eighth studio album when it was announced they’d given up on the lame word play with their titles (‘Nymphetamine’, ‘Thornography’), teamed up with producer Andy Sneap (Machine Head, Megadeth), made their first concept album since 1998’s... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5336 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5336 The Prodigy have added a Riverstage show to their Australian Big Day Out tour - and they'll be supported by Simian Mobile Disco and Hot Chip (DJs). Tickets go on sale November 14, and the show itself will be on Tuesday January 20 2009. Be quick though, with Big Day Out tickets completely sold out these ones will be moving fast. http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5576 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5576 My name is: Dan I’m in a band called: Black Mustang We are from: Brisbane The best looking person in the band is: our sound guy (gotta keep him on our good side). Our latest release is: ‘Between The Devil & The Deep Blue Sea’ – out now via Plus One records. People always compare us to: good old fashion rock ’n’ roll. See us live at: The Zoo, Brisbane on November... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5574 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5574 First release tickets have completely sold out – but you can still secure your pass to Stereosonic 2008 in the second ticket release (details below). Canada’s multi-talented superstar Stu Stone will be heading south for Stereosonic 2009, which takes in dates across the nation. As acclaimed for his acting (Donnie Darko) and net radio programs as much as his rap and music production skills, Stone is a rare talent and... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5569 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5569 The Frontier Touring Company and Roundhouse Entertainment are honoured to present the legendary Mr Leonard Cohen in his first Australian concert tour in almost a quarter of a century.  The tour will include a series of indoor arena concerts plus a day on the green winery shows. Promoter Michael Gudinski said the Leonard Cohen tour is a must see for any self-respecting music lover. “The Leonard Cohen concert I saw last... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5558 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5558 As the harsh assault that is Machine Head blasted out of the speakers with surprising - although somewhat muddy – volume, it was clear that these metal pioneers were the true heavyweights of the evening. The set focused heavily on material from ‘The Blackening’, however the ‘Burn My Eyes’ selections of ‘Old’ and ‘Davidian’ were the highlight as usual... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5544 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5544 Although last year's debut where Daft Punk rocked stages around the country will be a tough one to follow, Modular aren't daunted at the prospect. They've opened the doors on their impressive stable of artists to take us all back to Nevereverland and at the same time celebrate turning ten. The Presets, Klaxons, Hercules & Love Affair, Cut Copy, Whitest Boy Alive, Ladyhawke, The Bumblebeez, Muscles and Van She are just some of the... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5534 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5534 Grinspoon have been added to the Odyssey '09 event at Carrara Sports Complex on the Gold Coast for New Year's Eve. Also added to the lineup are Bliss N Eso, Phrase, Malente and Sam La More. They're joining Jet, Eskimo Joe and The Butterfly Effect.     http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5529 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5529 THE HOLIDAYS When the Ship Goes Down (Liberation Music) 5/10 The Holidays' new EP is a little like a roll-up: sugary, mildly satisfying, but you're hungry again almost immediately after eating. The title track, 'When the Ship Goes Down', is catchy enough but the other four just seem to merge into each other. The sunny hooks are reminiscent of the Arctic Monkeys, just not as original. Their stories aren't as good either. Where are the... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5526 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5526 MARK BONO Otherside (Independent) 7/10 It took a few listens to fully appreciate the musical stylings of Mark Bono. At first I was not convinced his voice was different to anything I had heard before. It’s almost reminiscent of the ‘90s pop rock scene. Not to say his voice lacked texture or quality, but perhaps originality. Upon further listening, I found it was the lyrics that kept me intrigued and resonated in my... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5525 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5525 DAVEY SPICER & THE CREATURES OF HABIT Tides and Caves (Independent) 7/10 ‘Bang Bang Baby Goodbye’ starts off reminiscent of a classic Ash Grunwald track with a fast, punchy, roots-style melody line. It takes the listener on a journey of a female shooting her estranged lover, or possibly just shooting down his pride... who knows. Davey Spicer’s most notable performance is his beautifully soothing... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5524 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5524 ANDREW KENNEDY Running Stumbling Bumbling Bursting (Broken Toy Records) 8/10 This delightful pop EP from Brisbane singer/songwriter Andrew Kennedy is basically six tracks of poetry. His lyrics are outstanding – honest and beautiful, and while the music isn’t exactly an original sound, it supports Kennedy’s voice fantastically. ‘Suicide Tuesday’, the first single and ode to the weekend,... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5519 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5519 VARIOUS ARTISTS Groove Armada Presents: Lovebox Volume 2 (Lovebox/Inertia) 8/10 More often than not, compilations sound a lot better on the back of the CD than the individual tracks do when played alongside a selection of other songs from different artists with totally different sounds. This is definitely not the case with Groove Armada and their second instalment of ‘Lovebox’, which takes its inspiration from the... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5518 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5518 VARIOUS ARTISTS Century Media - Covering 20 years Of Extremes (Century Media/Stomp) 9.5/10 Instead of traditionally slapping songs from their catalogue together and releasing it as an anniversary album, Century Media have taken it to a new level. They have asked bands that are currently signed to the label to do covers of other Century Media releases. The compilation kicks off with Arch Enemy covering Dream Evil's epic 'The Book of... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5517 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5517 TV ON THE RADIO Dear Science, (Touch and Go/4AD/Remote Control) 9.5/10 Dear Science, I just thought I’d shoot you a quick email to thank you for all that you’ve done for us. I mean, where would we be without ears grown on the backs of mice, Viagra, and that particle accelerator thing that will surely destroy us all? Thanks also for giving us the ability to record music, without which we wouldn’t have... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5516 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5516 TRIVIUM Shogun (Roadrunner) 8/10 Trivium. It’s no secret they’re something of a polarising figure in the modern metal scene: many see them as the prodigal sons of the true metal style; many see them as nothing but poseurs. And while their albums have been inconsistent at times, they’ve shown flashes of brilliance with every effort, but are yet to deliver a start to finish monolith of the genre.... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5515 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5515 TOM COONEY Presque Vu (Remote Control) 9/10 Brisbane-based singer/songwriter Tom Cooney’s debut album, ‘Presque Vu’, captures Cooney’s unique fusion of pop and folk in an intensely intimate setting. Using mostly minimalist instrumentation, the album showcases Cooney’s beautifully haunting voice and exceptional classically-trained guitar skills. ‘Presque Vu’ begins... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5513 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5513 THE COOL KIDS The Bake Sale (Remote Control) 8/10 From the moment ‘The Bake Sale’ hits your CD player, the album has hard-hitting, heart-pumping beats, rhythmic vocals and mad flows. With an impressive head-bobbing and butt-shaking album, These Chicago-based rappers have simple flows and catchy hooks, which creates a spectacular dance club feel. Having been produced by one of the group’s members, Chuck... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5512 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5512 THE BLACK SEEDS Solid Ground (Inertia) 9/10 Heralding the sounds of summer is The Black Seeds’ ‘Solid Ground’. Fronted by Barnaby Weir (guitar/vocals) and Daniel Weetman (vocals, percussion, MPC), this Wellington band have already won hordes of fans with their two double-platinum selling albums and infectious live shows. Self-described as “a musical brotherhood committed to making heavyweight soul... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5510 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5510 SALMONELLA DUB Feel the Seasons Change (Virgin/EMI) 7/10 Recorded live during the band's 2008 ‘Feel the Seasons Change’ tour, this album provides a musical journey through Aotearoa (New Zealand) landscapes. Classic Salmonella Dub tracks are re-invented by the incredible New Zealand Symphony Orchestra arranger Tom Rainey, creating an artistic masterpiece. Additionally, if you are not a New Zealander or don’t... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5508 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5508 MIC CONWAY’S NATIONAL JUNK BAND Corporate Chook (Rouseabout Records) 5.5/10 If your crazy, daggy aunt was going to be in a band, this would be it. The term ‘Junk Band’ is very fitting, with these crazy 50-somethings playing everything from sousaphones and kitchen sinks to garbage cans. These guys are a lot of fun, singing about the most unlikely subjects and making fun of popular culture as they go.... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5507 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5507 LL COOL J Exit 13 (Def Jam/Universal) 2/10 LL Cool J (Ladies Love Cool James) was once a multi-platinum rap heavyweight. Since dropping ‘Radio’ in 1985, he has enjoyed mainstream popularity and underground respect. On his latest offering, ‘Exit 13’, the Def Jam poster boy shows his age. The album feels wrong from the start as LL’s old skool flow struggles to gel with his new skool... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5506 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5506 LADYHAWKE Ladyhawke (Modular) 9/10 Pip Brown, aka Ladyhawke (who took her name from the 1985 fantasy film starring Michelle Pfeiffer), has broken from her ‘Teenager’ mould with Nick Littlemore (Pnau) and conjured up something extra special. The one thing that really makes me stoked about this album is that Pip Brown, or whoever did the tracklisting for the record, put her released singles at the end of the album.... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5502 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5502 END OF FASHION Book of Lies (Virgin/EMI) 5/10 The opening track of ‘Book of Lies’ sets the scene for an entire album of Kings of Leon-esque catchy riffs and trendy vocals, which is great...if you’re into that kind of thing. With a strong presence in a genre which sometimes renders its bands interchangeable, End of Fashion have produced a catchy, easy to digest CD full of melodic tracks that demand no real... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5498 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5498 COLD WAR KIDS Loyalty to Loyalty (Shock) 6/10 This album is definitely a lot darker than the Cold War Kids’ first attempt, ‘Robbers and Cowards’, but it proves a nice follow up to what could have been an outright disaster of a second album. Their quality of sound is darker, the aspirations seem greater and the references are a lot broader, with the band covering subjects such as suicide and the bohemian... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5497 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5497 CHILDREN COLLIDE The Long Now (Universal) 8/10 Hands up if you're one of the pissed off punters who thought Sounds of Spring organisers should've pulled a band OTHER than Children Collide because of the rain? Yeah, me too. After hearing this, their first full-length offering, I was pumped to see them live. Damn the man! 'The Long Now' is an upbeat album that sways from crash and bash rock to something a bit more melodic. 'Social... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5496 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5496 BRENDAN CANNING Broken Social Scene Presents: Something For All Of Us (Arts & Crafts/Shock) 9.5/10 ‘Something For All of Us’ is the second release from the Broken Social Scene Presents series. After Kevin Drew’s 2007 effort, ‘Spirit If…’, co-founder of the Canadian group, Brendan Canning had a lot to live up to. The album turned out to be 50-minutes of pure indie... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5494 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5494 Chinese Democracy has finally arrived - well, almost. One of the most highly anticipated albums in rock history, the long-awaited Chinese Democracy marks the first album of new material from Guns N’ Roses since 1991’s simultaneous release of Use Your Illusion I and Use Your Illusion II.  Chinese Democracy will be available globally on November 23 on CD and vinyl (accompanied by a free digital download of the... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5493 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5493 My name is: Justin Keenan I’m in a band called: The Go Set My band mates are: Ago (drums), Jesse (guitar/mandolin), Tom (bass), Lachy (bagpipes) and Bedge (fiddle). We are from: Melbourne VIC Our latest release is: Our fourth album, called ‘Rising’. People always compare us to: The Pogues, The Clash, Weddings Parties, Roaring Jack, Radio Birdman, Flogging Molly, and The Dropkick Murphys. See us live... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5492 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5492 My name is: Ryan Felton    I’m in a band called: Chaos Divine    My band mates are: Dave Anderton, Simon Mitchell, Michael Kruit, Ben Mazzarol  We are from: Perth, WA    Our latest release is: ‘Avalon’ People always compare us to: Dream Theater, Opeth, Soilwork and Meshuggah. See us live at: NSW dates coming very... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5491 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5491 A surprisingly packed house awaited the eclectic bunch of New York luminaries that comprise Joan As Police Woman. The exceedingly talented front-woman and namesake, Joan Wasser, stepped out and greeted the audience before beginning her set on keyboard and only eventually moving to guitar. All of the favourites were played as was a surprise cover of Jimi Hendrix’s ‘Fire’. Wasser’s cohorts Parker Kindred... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5490 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5490 My name is: Nick I’m in a band called: Major Major My band mates are: Lee, Adrian and James  We are from: Melbourne Town Our latest release is: ‘Great Leagues’ (EP no. 2) People always compare us to: the Weezer, Jebediah type bands of the ‘90s. See us live at: The Zoo Nov 14th, Rics Nov 15th  Our MySpace is: www.myspace.com/thisismajormajor My favourite album is:... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5489 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5489 Sun, surf and soul baby! That’s what was promised and that, plus a great deal more, was delivered on this weekend of superb music and family fun. Caloundra is a wonderful place for a festival of this size and calibre, and while the line-up initially fell short of expectations in comparison to last year, it proved to be ideal for its audience. Coupled with warm weather and a friendly crowd, the festival offered people of all ages a... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5488 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5488 My name is: Rosie Burgess I’m in a band called: Rosie Burgess My band mates are: Sophie Kinston and Sam Lohs We are from: the heart of Melbourne town. Our latest release is: ‘Wait for the World’ People always compare us to: The Waifs See us live at: Ballina Hotel Fri Nov 7th, The Rails in Byron Sat Nov 8th, The Troubadour in Brisbane Sun Nov 9th. Our MySpace is: www.myspace.com/rosiesmusic My favourite... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5487 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5487 My name is: Mei Lai Swan    I’m in a band called: Mei Lai Swan My band mates are: currently Rae Howell (keys/mallephone) and Lachlan Wallace (drums). We are from: Alice Springs and Melbourne Our latest release is: ‘Calling The Sky’ (single, Oct 2008) People always compare us to: Lamb, Bjork, Joanna Newsom See us live at: The Troubadour, Nov 19; Crystal Waters, Nov 20; The... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5486 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5486 My name is: Jayden Wrrts I’m in a band called: Eleventh He Reaches London My band mates are: Great guys.   We are from: Perth. It’s like to the left and down a bit. Our latest release is: A pretty great 7” coming out before the end of October. People always compare us to: Things they really shouldn’t. See us live at: 30/102008 - The Red Room in Brisbane with The Paper And... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5438 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5438 Brisbane had been waiting a long time for this. One of the largest and most excited crowds I have ever seen at The Arena stood in barely contained anticipation as a seemingly endless dance track rang out over the PA. The seconds counted down until the metal legends finally took to the stage for their first-ever Australian performance, smashing into ‘Perpetual Black Second’ sounding every bit the well-oiled machine that... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5433 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5433 In 2001, Pantera and Corrosion of Conformity (with Jimmy Bower filling in on drums) played a smashing double bill at Festival Hall (RIP) that would go down as one of the most magical moments in Brisbane's metal history. After seven long years, members from both bands finally returned for Down's first-ever headlining show in the country, giving us glimpses of the same magic felt all too long ago. As opener 'Hail the Leaf' burst out of the... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5442 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5442 Editorial Deadlines: -    Tsunami hits the streets on the first Friday of every month. -    The magazine is sent to the printer on the Monday before that Friday. -    Editorial deadline is the Wednesday a week and a half before the street date, however, space is limited so it pays to get in at the start of the month if you would like an interview, profile... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5426 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5426 Despite being a Sunday night, a strong crowd turned out to hear a relaxed Ash Grunwald and Aussie roots pioneer Mick Hart do their stuff recently at Maroochydore’s Sands Tavern. Touring his latest album, ‘Fish Out of Water’, Ash was friendly and chatty as he played for about one-and-a-half hours. Dressed casually in a t-shirt, ripped jeans and sporting the trademark dreads, the Melbourne performer was obviously... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5425 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5425 I never thought I’d get the chance to see Carcass in a live setting after their breakup in the mid-‘90s. But lo and behold, a reunion happened, an Australian tour was booked, and I was in the venue bright and early almost shaking with anticipation. Before the legends’ set got underway, there were some local supports to whet the appetite. Brisbane death metallers Defamer started off the show and for the most part... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5424 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5424 There was a surprisingly large crowd when I Heart Hiroshima took the stage. But despite the fact that the floor was full of indie kids, the band proved to be a poor choice of support act. They seemed reluctant to play their hits; instead, most of the set was comprised of new material. However, they did bring out singles ‘Punks’ and ‘Feel It’, which got a little bit of recognition from the audience.... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5423 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5423 It looked like a dismal day ahead as the clouds covered the RNA showgrounds and settled in to stay. The sight of a few rain clouds wasn’t going to stop the 15,000-strong crowd from rocking out with their raincoats out. Surprisingly, there was little mud about which was an added bonus, although the wet weather delayed the start of the first few sets by about two hours, with most bands having to cut sets short near the start of the... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5389 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5389 UNCHARTED COMPETITION THREE HAS KICKED OFF! UNSIGNED BANDS STEP CLOSER TO WINNING THE PRIZE OF A LIFETIME - A SPOT ON THE BIG DAY OUT 2009 TOUR! Unsigned bands have been registering in droves to be in with the chance of winning that one and only, highly sought after slot on the Big Day Out 2009 Tour. We can now officially announce that the Tooheys Extra Dry uncharTED competition is well and truly underway. In true uncharTED fashion,... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5388 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5388 Jam Music isn’t quite done with the national line up of the 2009 Good Vibrations Festival, they have two more artists to announce on the bill! Alongside THE ROOTS on the Roots Stage is THE PHARCYDE! This is the original line up of Tre "Slimkid3" Hardson, Derrick "Fatlip" Stewart, Imani Wilcox, and Romye "Bootie Brown" Robinson who reunited this year for the first time since... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5387 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5387 This year Rogerthat toured for three and a half months and recorded for another three. In the UK the band played an 8 gig tour to crowds of 5-600 people and loved it, cranking up their live show and getting a fair few new fans in the process. They also tripped thru Europe playing 26 shows in 2 months. The band returned from that successful tour of Europe and took the touring energy into the studios and have just finished a new EP titled... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5386 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5386 The National Campus Band Competition (NCBC), the largest live band competition in the southern hemisphere, has joined forces with PPCA, FasterLouder,  APRA and Avant Card to unearth Australia’s next music super stars.  Organised by the Australasian Association of Campus Activities (AACA), NCBC has been running on Australian University and TAFE campuses across the country for 19 years. The competition showcases... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5385 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5385 More people are listening to community radio than ever before and 46 per cent of Australians listen because they play more Australian music and support local artists. The Community Broadcasting Association of Australia announced the results of its National Listener Survey today, which shows an increase of 10 per cent in the number of people listening to community radio in the last two years. Deb Welch, President of the CBAA said more... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5384 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5384 Get tanned, get styled and get revved up for the red carpet action at the Xbox 360 Indy Fever Party - the hottest off-track Indy party. In its fifth year, the sell-out event will be the only place to be on Friday October 24, with non-stop entertainment including live performances from Australia’s hottest DJs, celebrity appearances, and interactive product experiences.   After making a grand entrance via the red carpet,... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5375 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5375 The St Jerome's Laneway Festival is back in 2009, with a new Brisbane venue and a stacked lineup as always. Girl Talk is headlining the shows, with support from Stereolab, The Hold Steady, Architecture in Helsinki, The Drones and stacks more. This is only the first lineup announcement, so there should be some more goodness to come. The Brisbane show is moving to Alexandria St of St Paul's Terrace and will be on January 31 - bring a hat...... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5347 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5347 With an eclectic sound of experimental blues and Dirty Three inspired instrumentals, Bremen Town Musician are a three piece of violin and vocals, drums, and guitar/bass. Performing as a street musician since 1995 in Australia the U.K and Iceland she was mentored by Geoff Adeney (ex Bullamakanka ‘79 -’81) and Cleis Pearce (Coolangubra, Dha).  In 2007 she toured the United States with Icelandic/American country rock... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5346 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5346 The 10th of October 2008 marks the date Madison Heart Entertainment and the Alternative Touring Co. will launch Club Reckless at the Pig and Whistle Maroochydore. Club Reckless is the first indie alternative club to be established on the Sunshine Coast and the grand opening will feature giveaways from Macbeth Footwear, Glamour Kills Clothing and American Allstars as well as a performance by nationally acclaimed band Mourning Tide. The... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5345 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5345 While the mere mention of their name often invokes raised eyebrows and amused smiles among the uninitiated, Brisbane four piece Hungry Kids of Hungary produce music that inspires equal measures of curiosity and joy. The band name hints at the personalities of the four people within the band, while never taking themselves too seriously, it's this attitude that is perhaps the secret to their incandescent, soulful brand of... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5344 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5344 The Go Set recently released their highly anticipated fourth album 'Rising' on 4th October 2008. The album was recorded with US producer Jonathon Burnside (Melvins, NOFX, Sleepy Jackson) at Eastern Bloc studios in Melbourne and has been labeled as a move back to its punk rock origins, but with new forays into reggae and ska – styles not familiar for a folk/punk outfit. The Go Set has toured and played with the likes of The Living... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5337 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5337 Well true to form, it was hot as shit for Parklife – but fittingly, the lineup was an absolute scorcher too. Personally it was this that drew me and undoubtedly many others back in after the shmozzle that was last year. In a pleasing change the crowd wasn’t saturated in fluoro, although a more than healthy Gold Coast contingent were as always eager to remove shirts at a moment’s notice. Others may not have been... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5335 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5335 Fleet Foxes have announced some tour dates to go with their appearance at the Falls Fest, which is great news for us up here in Brissie! The hirsute Seattle-ites are playing the Tivoli on the 4th of January, after playing Sydney on the 3rd and Melbourne on the 2nd. If you aren't going to Falls you'd be well advised to move quickly on these tickets, they won't last long! http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5288 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5288 My name is: Todd I’m in a band called: The Bloodpoets   We are from: Brissie Our latest release is: ‘Fire in Erlangen’ EP. Our debut album is currently being mixed for an early ’09 release. People always compare us to: Ben Lee, if he rocked out a little more. See us live: October 10 at the Airport Tavern, Coolangatta, October 11 at the Pacific Hotel, Yamba, October 18 at the... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5287 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5287 My name is: Aaron Gaffney I’m in a band called: Lamexcuse We are from: Canberra, A.C.T Our latest release is: ‘Life. Like. Wild’. People always compare us to: We’ve been compared to bands such as Bodyjar, Hot Water Music and Sommerset. See us live at: Hoey Moey, Coffs Harbour on October 10, Hard Rock Café, Surfers Paradise on October 17, and The Living Room, Brisbane on October 18.... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5285 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5285 My name is: Al Poseidon Adventure I’m in a band called: asecretdeath We are from: Gold Coast Our latest release is: the greatest album ever recorded by a group of mentally challenged individuals: self-titled album released on Skull and Bones Records through Stomp Distribution. People always compare us to: Converge, Curl Up and Die, Mastodon, Neurosis etc. See us live: with Amity Affliction, House vs. Hurricane and Rex Banner at... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5284 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5284 MY BEST FRIEND’S GIRL Dane Cook, Kate Hudson, Jason Biggs 6/10 In ‘My Best Friend’s Girl’ Dane Cook plays Tank; the guy men hire to date their ex-girlfriends. The plan is: he takes the ex on a nightmarish date to prove to her that their ex-lover wasn't that bad at all. Before the night is over, she'll be calling her old flame begging for him to come back. Kate Hudson is the well-to-do but... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5283 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5283 MIRRORS Kiefer Sutherland, Amy Smart, Paula Patton 2/10 In this year’s laziest horror film, self-confessed horror master Alexandre Aja (‘The Hills Have Eyes’, ‘Haute Tension’) has Kiefer Sutherland dodging his own reflection. Sutherland plays Ben Carson, a disgraced cop who takes a job as a night watchman in a department store that was cleaned out in a fire five years before. His only... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5282 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5282 BURN AFTER READING George Clooney, Brad Pitt, John Malkovich, Tilda Swinton 7/10 As brilliant as ‘No Country for Old Men’ was, and as fun as ‘Burn After Reading’ is, nobody will deny being slightly disappointed by both films’ endings. They are abrupt and unsatisfying. In the case of ‘Burn After Reading’, the ending needed to work a lot better than it does. John... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5280 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5280 Winners of seven ARIA awards and plenty of rock n’ roll hearts, veteran rockers You Am I boast a career spanning almost a generation; and they’re not planning on hanging up their instruments just yet. Guitarist Davey Lane chatted with Tsunami’s Steve Tauschke in the lead up to the release of ‘Dilettantes’, the quartet’s eighth album. Almost two decades into a career that shows few... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5279 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5279 Very Unique Existence are a Byron Bay pop-rock band with a powerful message. They are headlining Brisbane’s Greenfest, which has been boldly dubbed as this decade’s Woodstock. Tsunami’s Carolyn Garner spoke to the band’s lead singer, Rich Latimer, about his quest for social change. The self-proclaimed ‘positive consciousness band’ (meaning the proceeds of their touring shows go... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5277 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5277 Not many would have begrudged drummer Hamish Rosser if he had walked away from The Vines in 2004. The band had just suffered the most public of implosions. Ex-bassist Patrick Matthews, now in Youth Group, deserted the band on the back of Craig Nichols’ erratic and destructive behaviour (which hadn’t yet been diagnosed as Aspergers syndrome). So why did Hamish stay? By Nate Shea “I just thought it was going... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5276 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5276 Meet Peter Dolving: born in Sweden and raised by an “American redneck” stepfather from an early age, he’s quite possibly metal’s most outspoken, intelligent and intriguing frontman. By Gav Britton “We wanted to make a compact album with efficient songs and an album of diversity… I think we did what we set out to do,” says Dolving of his latest and fourth album with... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5274 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5274 Electronic dance outfit The Bird are heading to Island Vibe Festival this month as an unlikely addition to the predominantly reggae, blues and roots line-up. Keyboardist for the band, Simon Durrington, spoke to Tsunami’s Carolyn Garner about why they chose to play at the festival. How are you feeling about playing the Island Vibe Festival? Yeah good, anytime you play on an island you go, ‘Oh, this is going to be... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5273 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5273 Today’s hardcore scene, whether it be at home or abroad, has become somewhat unpredictable. The blend of different styles can turn out an ‘80s-infused hardcore punk band one day and a bloodthirsty metal-core act the next. With the genre adapting a do-it-yourself work ethic, the quality of the bands in question is quite varied. Every so often though, a band will emerge from the pack with an original take on things that lets... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5272 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5272 What defines a rock star? Is it snorting cocaine off the emaciated stomachs of supermodels every night? Having the strength to chuck an LCD out a window after 20 shots of Jack Daniels? Or is it simply being able to release an album in 2005 and still headline one of the biggest rock festivals of the year? Although the TV thing is pretty impressive, we’re gonna go with the latter. By Melissa Spurgin “We’re in... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5271 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5271 Newcastle three-piece Short Stack say they formed to get the ladies. Tsunami’s Vivienne Hill decided girls couldn’t be the only reason they got into the industry, so she asked vocalist/guitarist Shaun Diviney about life’s more serious questions. What followed was a very sarcastic conversation about nudity, Barry White and killing small animals. “We all just came together as three young kids who were... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5270 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5270 Do you have a hankering to exercise your democratic right? Then vote! MTV Kickstart is back again, and it’s the public’s turn once again to have their say in which Aussie band deserves a bag of goodies, including $15,000 in cold hard cash. I’m not going to tell you who to vote for, but allow me to introduce your Brisbane representatives: the Rocketsmiths. By Nate Shea The carnie rock quintet were the... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5268 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5268 Formed to bring back “what grindcore should be”, Virginia’s Pig Destroyer have done well to deliver that and then some in their 11 year history. After years as a three-piece, they added noise/sampler Blake Harrison to the fold. Rob S was thrilled to ask Blake a few questions about joining the band, working on ‘Phantom Limb’, and who farts the most in the tour van. Fans here in Australia... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5267 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5267 So you've been clued on to the sounds of George Evelyn and his seminal Nightmares on Wax project for years now, you've already got your hands on a copy of his new album, 'Thought So…', and of course, your loving every soulful downbeat moment of bliss it contains. But what's really got you thinking is, ‘What the hell is written in that black book?’ MK ULTRA investigates. George lets out a bellow of laughter as... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5266 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5266 At age 45, Mike Stewart has accomplished more than any other wave rider in the world. He’s won the Bodyboarding World Championship nine times, the Pipeline Bodysurfing Championship 11 times, and is still mixing it up with riders 25 years his junior on the IBA World Tour. ‘Fire’ is a unique look at one of the most respected wave riders in the world, and it’s been a long time coming. By Gav... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5265 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5265 It’s been a very, very long time coming for Australia. Twenty years into their career, Sweden’s resident genius metal alchemists Meshuggah are finally bringing their esoteric masterpieces to our shores. Tsunami was lucky enough to score an interview and it was with much glee that Greg Reason spoke to guitarist Mårten Hagstöm. You guys strike me as one of the most misunderstood bands of our era. I see... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5264 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5264 Eighteen months on and Machine Head’s sixth album, ‘The Blackening’, is still sending shockwaves around the world. Tsunami’s Jake 3 spoke to frontman Robb Flynn in the lead up to the band’s tour with Slipknot. The response to ‘The Blackening’ has been pretty insane - what are your feelings on the album after touring it for a couple of years? I was singing along to... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5263 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5263 The Jackson 5, Oasis, Kings of Leon… Forming a band with your sibling can be risky business. So what happens when you are not only in a band with your pesky little brother, but also your dad? Melissa Spurgin poses the question to Logan Bell - lead singer of reggae group (and family affair) Katchafire. “We definitely get on each other’s nerves,” Logan admits. “Just like any normal family,... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5262 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5262 There’s only one thing more painful than sitting through an episode of ‘Farmer Wants a Wife’, and that’s trying to interview someone who is so jetlagged they can only manage to answer the (admittedly un-groundbreaking) questions in one or two sentences. While perfectly nice and polite, former Cold Chisel guitarist Ian Moss does not make for a chatty phone friend. By Melissa... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5261 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5261 Down guitarist Kirk Windstein is bunkered down at home writing prospective riffs for one of his various projects (Down, Crowbar, Kingdom of Sorrow). While your average musician complains about work, the wife, kids or touring getting in the way of writing, Windstein has the mother of all distractions to contend with: hurricanes. By Gav Britton “Yeah, there’s another hurricane out there in the Gulf of... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5260 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5260 Brisbane’s very own gypsy orchestra, Doch, are gearing up again for their annual collection of gigs at the Powerhouse. In a mini-festivity that has become a mainstay of Brisbane’s cultural calendar, Doch will be returning for the fifth year and boosting their seven core members to a massive 27. It’s a bit of an odd fit, finding a gypsy orchestra in a city with barely a gypsy in sight, so how does a group of... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5259 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5259 His moustache and tattoos might look about as real as Pamela Anderson’s tits, but at least Heath Franklin’s version of Chopper is actually funny. He’s also quite a compassionate bloke. According to Franklin, “every three seconds, somebody, somewhere in the world is being a deadshit”. It’s an alarming statistic, and one the ‘Ronnie Johns Half Hour’ star wants to... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5258 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5258 The streets of Brisbane will soon be filled with the stench of Carcass. Not a real carcass – THE Carcass. That’s right, the corpse of the legendary deathgrind band that filled the minds of metalheads with tales of gore from 1987 to 1995 has been exhumed and is returning to Australia for the first time in 15 years. By Gav Britton The time away from Carcass has not dulled vocalist/bassist Jeff Walker’s... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5257 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5257 Thanks to ‘Chicago’, when we think of jazz an image of a scantily-clad Renee Zellweger tap dancing on a piano instantly springs to mind. But while pianist Mark Isaacs may look just as good in fishnets, he’s got one up on Miss Zellweger: he actually knows what he’s talking about. By Melissa Spurgin You’re teaming up with Rai Thistlewayte from Thirsty Merc for the Brisbane Jazz Festival... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5256 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5256 They've conquered clubs around the world with their spectacular live performances, they've penned some of the biggest tunes to hit dance floors in recent years, and they co-run the revered tech house label Get Physical. In fact, Booka shade can do no wrong in the eyes of dance music aficionados. MK ULTRA catches up with Arno Kammermeier from the Berlin-based duo ahead of their headlining set at the Stereosonic festival in Brisbane next... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5255 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5255 When they are ensconced in a mundane round of album interviews, some musicians can tend to hit back at questions with formulaic answers. Not Edmondo Ammendola. The bassist has a quirky, realistic response to questions that stem from a timeline that has seen Augie March slowly but surely produce their fourth triumphant record, ‘Watch Me Disappear’. By Nikita Lee A band could be forgiven for rehashing the tried and... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5254 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5254 THE FIERY FURNACES Remember (Thrill Jockey/Fuse) 9/10 I didn’t know what I was getting myself into when I requested The Fiery Furnaces’ first live album to review for this month’s issue. I figured ‘Remember’ would be a nice, comfortable presentation of some politely quirky indie pop in a live setting. What I got instead was slapped upside the head, wet-fish style, with one of the most... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5253 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5253 ROOTS MANUVA Slime & Reason (Big Dada/Inertia) 7.5/10 Roots Manuva keeps his ethos of ‘maintaining’ with his fourth studio album, ‘Slime and Reason’. It instantly distinguishes itself from its predecessors with the opening track ‘Again & Again’, which owns a more accessible sound than previous work with its simple, uplifting horn arrangements and pop song... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5252 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5252 NIGHTMARES ON WAX Thought So… (Warp/Inertia) 8/10 There's nothing better than one of those good summer albums, so I’m glad this new album from Nightmares on Wax has dropped just in time for BBQs and thirsty, smoky afternoons. The second album in two years from down-tempo pioneer George Evelyn continues in the same vein as 'In a Space Outta Sound' with its rich blend of subtle, intoxicating funk, hip-hop, soul and... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5251 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5251 METALLICA Death Magnetic (Universal) 8.5/10 I was eight years old the last time Metallica released a classic album. So after 20 years of disappointment, hopes were fading that I’d get the chance to experience and write about a decent Metallica album firsthand. After an anxiety-inducing heartbeat, ‘That Was Just Your Life’ bolts out of the gate promisingly with Hetfield’s trademark speed riffing... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5250 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5250 JOSH PYKE Chimney’s Afire (Ivy League) 9.5/10 A songwriter so skilled with the pen and so gifted with the guitar should be cherished. Josh Pyke is one of these rare finds. With such a solid landscape of purely poetic lyrics and unique musical arrangements, it takes but one mere listen to lose yourself in the beautiful music laced throughout ‘Chimney’s Afire’. Pyke has an uncanny ability to share... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5249 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5249 TRAGIC/ATHLETIC Brakes (Mountfield Recordings) 8/10 Local boys Tragic/Athletic deliver four songs swaying between organic and angular, and break away from their previous chaotic sound in the process. ‘Brakes’ is the work of a more diverse and grown-up band, and while their brand of post-hardcore is probably still too rough around the edges for most, they’ve streamlined the noisy sound of old into something... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5248 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5248 LAGWAGON I Think My Older Brother Used to Listen to Lagwagon (Fat Wreck Chords/Shock) 6.5/10 My older brother did used to listen to Lagwagon, as did I. In fact, they were one of my all-time favourite punk bands back in the ‘90s. I haven’t paid them much attention post-2000, partly due to their inactivity, but the news of this seven track EP and an Australian tour has piqued my interest. ‘I Think My Older... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5247 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5247 YOU AM I Dilettantes (Virgin/EMI) 7/10 As plucky followers like British India roar up the charts, You Am I put their heads down, bums up, and go about the sordid business of maintaining a life in rock ‘n’ roll. Their eighth outing, ‘Dilettantes’, swaps the meaty rock of 2006’s ‘Convicts’ for a broader palette. Its joys are subtle, like how the swelling strings,... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5246 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5246 VARIOUS ARTISTS This Comp Kills Fascists Vol. 1 (Relapse/Riot) 8/10 When Scott Hull (Pig Destroyer, Agoraphobic Nosebleed, AC) announced he was putting together a comp laying out the current cream of the crop in grind, hardcore and powerviolence, anticipation for this disc was high to say the least. Now that I hold it in my hands, I must say it’s everything it was promised to be and then some. The first thing you notice is... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5245 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5245 VARIOUS ARTISTS PHD Anthems Vol. 1 Mixed by Soul-T (Masif/Global) 6/10 Melbourne's PHD (Pure Hard Dance) have been pushing the sounds of hard trance and hard style to clubbers at their successful weekly nights for over six years now. They've released this retrospective of some of the bigger, more recent tunes that have got hands reaching for lasers and eyes rolling back into heads. Founder of the brand, Soul-T is on DJ responsibilities... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5243 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5243 UNDEROATH Lost In The Sound Of Separation (Tooth & Nail/EMI) 6/10 Underoath fans have been anxiously gritting their teeth in anticipation for one of two things: the album of this band’s career, or the complete implosion of the group. Both seemed logical conclusions in light of the dark times that have plagued the band since their 2006 release ‘Define The Great Line’, so which is it? While this is... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5242 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5242 THE VERVE Forth (EMI) 8.5/10 It’s been a long wait, but album number four for The Verve has finally arrived. No need to beat around the bush, I’m just going to come out and say it straight up: no, there’s not another ‘Bitter Sweet Symphony’ on this one. ‘Rather Be’ and ‘I See Houses’ both go a long way to making it up, though. ‘Sit and... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5241 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5241 THE SOUND OF ANIMALS FIGHTING The Ocean And The Sun (Epitaph/Shock) 8/10 On full-length number three, The Sound Of Animals fighting have scaled back their lineup to the basics. First album ‘The Tiger and the Duke’ employed eight musicians, but for ‘The Ocean And The Sun’, they’ve scaled back the lineup to four people. This has had a distinct effect on their sound, but as evidenced by the... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5240 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5240 THE HAUNTED Versus (Century Media/Stomp) 8/10 If you didn’t like the evolution apparent on ‘rEVOLVEr’ (2004) and ‘The Dead Eye’ (2006) – The Haunted’s last two albums with Peter Dolving back on vocals - then you should probably stop reading now. That being said, the Swedish five-piece’s sixth album, ‘Versus’, isn’t actually so... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5239 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5239 STING Songs From the Labyrinth (Universal) 6/10 Ah, 16th century England… no more catholic church means we can divorce our wives and explore more secular forms of music. John Dowland was the Hendrix of the time and his instrument was the lute. He wrote a collection of technically proficient songs that he played for Queen Elizabeth I (the one who didn’t put out) and many other courts of Europe. Some 400 years later... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5238 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5238 SOMETHING WITH NUMBERS Engineering the Soul (Below Par/EMI) 6/10 From the moment I heard Something With Numbers’ ‘Stay With Me Bright Eyes’ single pumping through my car stereo, I have been eagerly awaiting this record. The single demonstrates growth for the band, a step away from their whinier early stuff into a track which is both technically impressive and catchy as hell. Sadly, this is the... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5237 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5237 SAKKUTH From Wretched Blood (Systematic) 7.5/10 Having toured with Opeth, Strapping Young Lad and Nevermore, to name a few, Sakkuth are now one of Australia's most prominent death metal bands. This release will only project them further up the metal hierarchy. Opening track ‘Murderous Intent’ gets straight to the point with its pure metal onslaught. With the interesting combination of Barney Greenaway (Napalm Death)... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5236 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5236 PSYCROPTIC Ob(servant) (Stomp) 8/10 I remember seeing Psycroptic for the first time at HMB/The Basement at Metal for the Brain in 2005, and they absolutely floored me with how technical their material was. Since then I’ve seen them two or three times and every time they’ve put on a great show and obviously grown as musicians, but on record they’ve never grabbed my attention like they have in a live setting.... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5235 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5235 PROVOKE This Is Real (Pee Records) 6/10 After a long period of inactivity, local hardcore lads Provoke have released their debut full-length, ‘This Is Real’. Bearing a sound strikingly similar to a sped-up Against before they discovered thrash metal, Provoke deliver an album of bare-bones beatdowns. There’s not a guitar lead in sight, just ‘90s metallic hardcore laden with chunky chords and... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5234 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5234 PINKY BEECROFT AND THE WHITE RUSSIANS Somethin’ Somewhere Better (Gigpiglet Recordings) 7/10 When Pinky Beecroft left Machine Gun Fellatio in 2005, there was a resounding “NOOOOOO!” heard around the world, as the latex-wearing, pink-hair-having, penis-lyrics-loving electro freaks lost their hero. And they’ll still be screaming, because Pinky’s new band The White Russians are nothing like... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5233 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5233 MONKEY Journey to the West (XL Recordings/Remote Control) 7/10 The Gorillaz audio/visual duo of Damon Albarn and Jamie Hewlett has returned for another wacky excursion into the world of animated music. This time round, they have looked to the East to create an adaptation of Chen Shi-Zheng’s opera of the same name. It is of course based on the monkey legend made famous in the West by the cult television series.... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5232 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5232 MILOSH III (!K7/Inertia) 8.5/10 Canadian Michael Milosh creates indulgent electronica. 'III' is a gentle, atmospheric album better suited to quiet time than the dance floor. Recorded in Thailand, the album is a representation of both the isolation and inspiration he felt while so far from home comforts. His own press release puts it best when it describes ‘III’ as "a musical patchwork made more of light... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5231 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5231 LYKKE LI    Youth Novels (Warner) 7/10 Aside from blondes, there is one other thing the Swedes consistently do better than the rest of the world, and that is esoteric pop music. This debut from Lykke Li certainly fits that description – the experimentation with sound makes it a really fun listen. Fragility is the prevailing feeling from this album. The melodies are constructed sparsely but... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5230 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5230 LATE OF THE PIER Fantasy Black Channel (Parlophone/EMI) 5/10 Another British indie dance band. It seems as though every second month there is a new band out of Britain pushing their wares on a vastly populated market. So what separates Late Of The Pier from the rest? Not a whole lot unfortunately. The story’s becoming tired – a no-name band picked up by a major out of obscurity, and with little musical legs of... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5229 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5229 KIMYA DAWSON AND FRIENDS Alphabutt (K Records/Popfrenzy) 5/10 ‘Alphabutt’ is a children’s album. I’m not a child, nor do I have any children, so unfortunately I won’t be able to give you an insight into this album from the view of its intended audience. But taking that all into consideration, what I can tell you about ‘Alphabutt’ is it’s strange. Even as... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5228 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5228 KARMA COUNTY Headland (Vitamin Records) 7.5/10 If your one to enjoy easy-listening, first-class Australian music and don’t have a swag of Karma County CDs in your collection, this gem was intended for you. The superior tracks from their five releases can be experienced alongside two new songs, altogether making for an exquisite platter of sublime, wholesome and relaxing music. It’s the kind of music you can listen to... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5227 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5227 ICED EARTH The Crucible of Man (Something Wicked Part 2) (SPV/Riot) 9/10 The American power metal gods are back with another chapter in the already epic ‘Something Wicked’ story, and it is the best instalment so far. The reason for this is the impact original vocalist Matt Barlow has given to this album through his utterly outstanding voice. Diving into the dark subject of religion and the end of the earth, it is a... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5226 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5226 HAWTHORNE HEIGHTS Fragile Future (Victory Records/Stomp) 6/10 Listen to the first 40 seconds of opening track ‘The Business of Paper Stars’ and you can be forgiven for thinking the album is going to be a lot heavier than the opening riff suggests. However, with the first words sung it is instantly clear this is just another pop-emo album from a pop-emo band, with numerous attempts at trying to invoke hard rock and... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5225 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5225 GYM CLASS HEROES The Quilt (Fueled By Ramen/Warner) 4/10 The Gym Class Heroes were like a breath of fresh air when they burst onto the scene a couple of years back. Their fresh sound mixed hip-hop and RnB with some pop-punk elements and the band caught an easy ride on the wake of the big Decaydance (Pete Wentz’s label) bands like Fall Out Boy, Panic at the Disco and some other more generic posers. This time around, however,... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5224 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5224 EXIT WOUNDS Self-titled (No Escape) 8/10 Let’s start this off by clearing something up: this is NOT the Australian Exit Wounds, so those looking for melodic metal should go elsewhere. This ain’t metal and it certainly isn’t melodic; rather, it’s an all-out caustic grind assault that does the aural equivalent of beating you to a bloody pulp for its 22-minute duration. You’ve got to give... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5223 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5223 EMILIANA TORRINI Me and Armini (Rough Trade Records/Remote Control) 7.5 /10 Her voice is somewhat deceiving. It is soft, melodic and, for the most part, sweet as it glides through each track. But there are pockets plucked from ‘Me and Armini’ that show this Icelandic songstress has a certain tough air not to be messed with. Emiliana Torrini uses her latest album to take the listener on a journey through her... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5222 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5222 DIMENSION ZERO He Who Shall Not Bleed (Vic Records/Stomp) 7/10 If you wish In Flames had never veered from their more old-school death metal path, maybe Dimension Zero’s latest ‘He Who Shall Not Bleed’ is for you. Led by In Flames axeman Jesper Stromblad, this is straight up, meat and potatoes melodic death metal. The guitars follow the twin melody attack synonymous with the Gothenburg sound, and they make... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5221 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5221 DEEZ NUTS Stay True (Stomp) 2/10 It was a dark and stormy night in ye olde Adelaide when former Prom Queen drummer JJ Peters hatched an ingenious scheme. Riding on his old band’s fame, he decided to mix the worst parts of tough-guy hardcore with the worst parts of gangsta rap, hatching the band he currently helms as its sole member, Deez Nuts. It’s easy to hear how terrible this is, but it throws so much awfulness at... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5220 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5220 DAN WILSON Free Life (Dust Devil Music/Stomp) 8/10 So we all remember Semisonic right? The ‘90s band who pumped out catchy rock tunes like ‘Closing Time’ and ‘Singing In My Sleep’? Well, Dan Wilson was the singer/songwriter from that band. More recently he is known for co-writing six tracks from one of the biggest country albums of all time, the Dixie Chicks’ ‘Taking... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5219 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5219 CEREMONY Still Nothing Moves You (Bridge Nine/Stomp) 7/10 Ceremony are one of the big buzz-bands in hardcore at the moment, and looking over their past releases, it’s easy to see why they’ve gathered such a large and rampant following. On ‘Still Nothing Moves You’, the band continues to lay down the fast, angry sound that owes as much to old DC hardcore as it does to California powerviolence.... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5218 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5218 BOMB THE BASS Future Chaos (!K7 Records/Inertia) 7.5/10 There is little point making any witty references to the early works of UK producer Tim Simenon (aka Bomb The Bass). So different is 'Future Chaos' that any references would be self-indulgent at best. As a highly-acclaimed producer and remixer, Simenon has been working with artists like Björk, David Bowie and Depeche Mode since his departure from song writing in the early... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5217 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5217 AVENGED SEVENFOLD Diamonds in the Rough (Warner) 8/10 ‘Diamonds in the Rough’ produces some real Avenged Sevenfold memorabilia, comprised of rarities and never before released covers. The eclectic collection includes some classic Avenged sounds in opening tracks ‘Demons’ and ‘Girl I Know’, with prominent guitar work and the classic rock drawl of M Shadows. The fast pace of... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5216 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5216 AUGIE MARCH Watch Me Disappear (Sony BMG) 8/10 This album erupts with a mixture of guitar melodies, a steady stream of percussion and husky, fine-tuned vocals. It slowly glides through a course of darker tones and jovial, upbeat tracks. ‘Pennywhistle’ opens with a chirpy sound protruding from what sounds like a piccolo and builds up gradually to create a multi-layered track. Augie March have taken 18 months to... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5204 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5204 SOULWAX Part of the Weekend Never Dies (Liberator) 9/10 Tour DVDs are often tough to get right. There’s the tendency to include too much of the ‘craziness’ of touring, or to try to capture the personalities of the artists to such an extent that it removes all mystery from them. True to form, Soulwax do it better than most. But also fittingly, there’s not a great deal of the Dewaele brothers... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5203 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5203 Good Vibrations has announced its lineup for 2009, with The Presets at the top of the bill. The Roots, Fatboy Slim and Chromeo (pictured) will also be rocking the Goldy in February next year, as well as Roni Size Reprazent, Stanton Warriors and heaps more. Check the website for details. http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5180 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5180 Big Day Out organisers have announced some of the bands that will be coming to next year's festival - and it makes pretty compelling reading! Joining Neil Young and the first round of bands announced are The Prodigy, My Morning Jacket, TV On The Radio, Simian Mobile Disco, The Ting Tings and heaps more. Check out the Big Day Out website for more details and ticketing info. BIG DAY OUT 2009: NEIL YOUNG, ARCTIC MONKEYS, THE LIVING END, THE... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5112 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5112 Due to an unprecedented demand for tickets The Brisbane Underoath show slated for Thursday 2 October at the Arena has now moved to The Tivoli on Tuesday 30 September. A strictly limited batch of tickets will be released at 9am on Thursday 25 September. All current tickets for The Arena show remain valid for the Tivoli show. TUESDAY 30 SEPTEMBER        BRISBANE, THE TIVOLI – All... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5111 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5111 Australia’s hottest summer festival line-up heads north to infuse Brisbane in sonic goodness at Sunset Sounds this January. With tickets to The Falls Festival well and truly sold-out, fans need not despair as the cream of the crop have just been confirmed for a frolic in the park at Sunset Sounds. Brisbane’s Botanical and City Gardens will play host to this summer soiree over two blissful evenings as Sunset Sounds crafts... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5107 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5107 Soundwave 2009 has released its lineup, and as usual, it's absolutely chock full of massive acts, with none other than Nine Inch Nails headlining the festival. There's also Alice In Chains, Bloodhound Gang, Lamb of God, Alkaline Trio, Billy Talent and heaps more. Check out the Soundwave website for the full list. http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5094 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5094 KOOKS Do You Wanna (EMI) 4/10 Supporting their current world tour, those Kooks have released 'Do You Wanna' from their second album ‘Konk’, recorded in Ray Davies' studio (Kook+Kink=Konk, get it? Will the genius cease?) Unfortunately though, this track doesn't reach the heights of previous perfectly-crafted guitar pop nuggets ‘Naïve’ and ‘Eddie's Gun’, which is... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5093 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5093 WALTER MEEGO Voyager (Sony BMG) 8/10 Okay, I’m going to admit it: I am in love with Walter Meego. They are like Sam Sparro or Van She on sex. These two lovely lads from New York have pretty much won me over for life with their debut record. Unfortunately it fades a little bit into oblivion just after the middle, but that issue aside, the first seven songs are freaking awesome. ‘Girls’ is my big personal... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5092 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5092 THE LAST KINECTION Nutches (Shock) 6/10 The emergence of Aussie hip-hop in the Aboriginal community is really something to behold. The Last Kinection are holding it down for their community with their new album ‘Nutches’, rapping about each other, their people and their plight. This is evident in the intro with the use of vocal samples talking about the struggle. ‘Worth Marching’ would bang the... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5091 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5091 THE GAME LAX (Geffen/Universal) 8/10 From intro to outro The Game has once again displayed his ability to paint an accurate picture of himself as a decent lyricist and real-world speaker. His flow is delivered with wicked cleanliness despite his dirty tongue, which I personally feel stays true to the roots of this Compton High graduate. When it comes to feature artists I think the train goes two ways down the tracks. On one side... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5090 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5090 THE CHEMICAL BROTHERS Brotherhood: The Definitive Singles Collection (Virgin/EMI) 6/10 Cashing in or celebrating, you be the judge with the release of The Chemical Brothers ‘Brotherhood: The Definitive Singles Collection’. If you’re one of those people that like the Chems but don’t own any of their albums, or one of the die-hards that would buy the album simply for the two new tracks, this latest... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5089 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5089 THE ACADEMY IS… Fast times at Barrington High (Atlantic/Warner) 6/10 Take a trip down emo punk lane and you’ll find these guys’ house next to Panic at the Disco and Fall Out Boy. The vocals are emotionally charged and targeted at your typical converse sneaker wearing teenager with themes like young love and heartbreak. The songs are beautifully written and contain some incredibly catchy hooks. As with... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5088 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5088 SLIPKNOT All Hope Is Gone (Roadrunner) 9/10 And so the nine-headed beast of the music industry has returned - and like the Hydra of Greek mythology, they have returned stronger than ever. Their latest album, ‘All Hope Is Gone’, is similar in texture to ‘Volume 3: The Subliminal Verses’, but just as they did with ‘Volume 3’, the band have stepped up the intensity and songwriting... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5087 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5087 SEN DOG Diary of A Mad Dog (Suburban Noize Records/Shock) 7.5/10 Consistency is the word that springs to mind upon hearing ‘Diary of a Mad Dog’. Having enjoyed such a successful career, alongside B-Real as half of Cypress Hill, Cuban born rapper Sen Dog is familiar with what is required to produce quality music. At present so many hip-hop artists are trying to out-do the next MC with technically-structured verses... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5086 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5086 ROOT! Root Supposed He Was Out Of the Question (Meek Joe) 7/10 The remnants of the mighty TISM are back with an all new, all-caps moniker, and country/hip-hop double concept album. As usual, they are taking the piss out of absolutely everything, including themselves, you, and iPods - take that Apple! Cowboy scarves are in lieu of balaclavas and the music is earnest in a way that TISM never was, but the wit remains. DC ROOT is truly one... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5085 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5085 POP LEVI Never Never Love (Counter/Inertia) 8/10 There’s a moment of confusion when one begins listening to ‘Never Never Love’. The first song, ‘Wannamama’, seems utterly incapable of supporting the gigantic hype that has risen about Pop Levi. A few minutes in and even the dumb lyrics can’t hold the song back, the Neanderthal-rock groove now teeming with thick synthesisers.... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5084 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5084 MOTÖRHEAD Motörizer (SPV/Riot) 7/10 The band who put the ‘wart’ in ‘stalwart’ are back with studio album number 24 and, surprise surprise, it’s business as usual for Mikkey Dee (drummer), Phil Campbell (guitarist) and Lemmy Kilmister (God). These strangers to crazy concepts like ‘diversity’ and ‘artistic progression’ recorded... http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5083 http://www.tsunamimag.com/?process=views/article.php&articleId=5083 MERCY ARMS Mercy Arms (MGM Distribution) 7/10 Young Sydney band Mercy Arms have been steadily making a name for itself. The quartet – which includes Thom (vocals), Julian Sudek (drums), Ashley Moss (bass) and Kieran J Callinan (guitar) – have been compared