Pop-Punksters Cobra Starship are playing an intimate show August 19 at Vinyl. They will be joined by Friday Night Boys, The Plasticines, and DJ Skeet. It's an all ages show and tickets go on sale Wednesday, July 8 at noon. Starship is used to regularly performing in front of crowds of thousands on Warped Tour and recently with Metro Station and Fall Out Boy. This concert will sell out fast, so get your tickets soon. Visit ticket link! Don't miss the band's new album Hot Mess on sale August 11.
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June 29, 2009
Mixtape THIS: JJ Grey & MOFRO
Why: When a band is not easily categorized by a singular style, do you worry when they conquer them all so well? Not at all. Mixing Soul, R&B, Funk, Blues, and Southern Rock elements as well as fat horns, background singers, organs, and funky guitars all into their songs, it takes you back to find out the recording date wasn't in the 1960s or 1970s. JJ Grey & MOFRO have recorded four albums since starting their band in Jacksonville, FL in the late 1990s. Most recently they released Orange Blossoms to critical acclaim. One of Blossoms best tracks, "On Fire" is a juke joint banger that will have you dancing and singing along with JJ, especially when he delivers: "she asked out for a drink just a batting those eyes / we all was reaching for our wallets man she’s a light / she’s on fire."
Look for JJ Grey & MOFRO to be playing with Georgia's own Gov't Mule at Masquerade Music Park on July 25th, 2009. Get tickets!
For the fans of: A funky kind of soulful blues that only many long humid nights spent smackin' mosquitoes and eating cornbread could inspire
Add this song to your Mixtape: "On Fire" from 2008's Orange Blossoms
June 26, 2009
Laughter helps rebuild the Georgia Theatre
The sudden news of Athens' iconic Georgia Theatre burning down has had a statewide impact. Hundreds of fans across Georgia are taking action to help Georgia Theatre owner, Wilmot Greene, raise money to rebuild the theater.
Instantaneously, fund raising events have popped up all over, mostly concerts driven by bands donating their talents. However one person in particular, Marshall Chiles, the owner of The Laughing Skull Lounge in Atlanta, thinks a night dedicated to laughter will not only help raise spirits but benefit his friend Wilmont Greene immensely. Granted, Wilmont needs a lot more than what a long weekend of comedy shows will raise, but this is a way for people to give back to a legendary music venue and a great person. So make plans this weekend to come out and laugh, knowing the ticket you paid for is supporting the rebuilding of a notable theatre!
These comedy shows are hosted by Marshall Chiles and feature numerous
comedians.
Comedians performing include:
Patrick Dodd
Dan Pasternack
Dave Cummings
Dan Weeks
Gallois Brothers
Andy Sandford
And Many More..
Show times are:
Fri Jun 26, 2009 8:00 PM
Fri Jun 26, 2009 10:00 PM
Sat Jun 27, 2009 8:00 PM
Sat Jun 27, 2009 10:00 PM
Sun Jun 28, 2009 7:00 PM
Sun Jun 28, 2009 9:00 PM
Long Live the King of Pop
750 million albums sold. That is a figure that most people can't even imagine and one that musicians dream about. That's how many albums Michael Jackson sold in his lifetime. In most cases, a gaudy title such as "King of Pop," would be donned by only those that thought too highly of themselves, crowned only by rabid fans, not the general public. Not the case with Michael Jackson.
Jackson had his share of rabid fans, but he was crowned King fairly, with the approval of those sitting in concert seats, in their homes, and in the industry. He didn't buy his success, and neither did his record label. He earned it.
Starting at a young age, Michael and the rest of the Jackson 5 worked long hours rehearsing routines, choreography, and those notoriously sweet Motown vocals. They set the bar for any group of boys and girls trying to get an early start in the music industry. They had personality, charm, and pure talent, with young Michael leading the way.
His voice was perfect for the 1960s soul craze; it was smooth and emotional. He could cry using melodies, laugh using notes, and tug on any listener's heart strings with his passion. After the late 1970s funk era of The Jacksons, he became strongly hook and groove oriented. Taking what he learned with the Jackson 5, he became a his own artist.
Jackson was the largest part of his own creative process, something nearly unheard of today. He wrote many of his own songs, and the hooks he built were addictive. He had the "get-a-song-stuck-in-your-head-for-days," formula, and used it on every track. With the help of producing mastermind and legend Quincy Jones, he released 1979's Off The Wall and 1982's Thriller. Through the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s, he was the best entertainer in the world. Period. And many would say he's the best we've seen since.
His influence is undeniable. All parts of the equation in modern R&B/pop that consumes the airwaves and television shows was truly developed by Jackson. He had pumping grooves and melodies to make you want to listen. He danced and had stage production so you couldn't turn away. In many ways, some of the best selling stars of today are little more than Michael Jackson wannabees, which is by no means degrading.
How many times have we heard, "They are a full package: they can sing, dance and write their own songs."? For the pop genre, he set this precedent. Chances are upcoming performers want to sing as well as Michael, dance as well as Michael, and they would give their left arm to write as well. What's wrong with that? Absolutely nothing. He was a pioneer that could do it all, and do it with excellence. And as far as I'm concerned, his crown will never be taken away.
-Ben Thompson
June 25, 2009
June 23, 2009
Please Rock the Yacht
Are you one of the hundreds of fans that cram into 10 High every Thursday to enjoy the smooth jams of Yacht Rock Revue? If so, come mingle with the creative minds behind the phenomenon Tuesday, June 30 at Diesel in Virginia Highlands. If not, what are you waiting for? Jump on the boat!
Mixtape Atlanta is proud to be one of the sponsors for Please Rock the Yacht presented by Please Rock and Sashay Events. Please Rock the Yacht gives you the opportunity to check out some of the band’s many talented aliases. Listen to new tracks off Y.O.U.’s original indie-rock album, new comedy clips from Three Dog Stevens’ webisodes, and some live tracks of Yacht Rock Revue performing the smoothest songs from the 1970s and 1980s.
Free food and drinks will be provided by Diesel Restaurant and Atlanta Brewing Company. The entire event is free as long as you RSVP! The yacht sets sail Tuesday, June 30 from 7-10PM at Diesel.
Watch Yacht Rock talk to Mixtape Atlanta about the event as well as their favorite mixtape tracks and words to live by.
Oakenfold perfects his Vegas sound and hits
If you were lucky enough to catch Paul Oakenfold’s dynamic set at Bonnaroo, you know he is one DJ who can get a crowd pumped. Every week the legendary producer and DJ spins at a non-stop dance party at the Palms Hotel & Casino called “Perfecto Vegas.” Now you can enjoy Oakenfold’s Las Vegas sound without the airfare.
On July 14, Thrive Records will release “Perfecto Vegas,” a two-disc, 21 track album, selected and mixed by Oakenfold. The busy music man is also working on his 2010 release Pop Killer, which will feature collaborations with Cee-Lo, The Red Hot Chili Peppers, One Republic and others. Another exciting collaboration to look forward to, is Oakenfold’s work on Madonna’s forthcoming greatest hits album to be released this September. Check out an exclusive mix from "Perfecto Vegas" here!
June 22, 2009
Rockstar Chef Live at Variety Playhouse
Top Chef finalist and resident Atlanta chef Richard Blais brings his creative cooking style to Variety Playhouse for a live cooking demonstration on June 27. The Flip chef is known for his innovative take on food preparation and use of molecular gastronomy. Witness Blais work his kitchen magic before a live audience with crowd participation and plenty of new uses for liquid nitrogen. Get your tickets now!
Mixtape THIS: Deer Tick
Unfortunately there is not an Atlanta date scheduled on their supporting tour of Born on Flag Day, so the closest show to Atlanta is Nashville on July 12th. Lets help get the word out in Atlanta and get them to come play a show here.
For the fans of: Alt. country, country, folk, indie rock
Add this song to your Mixtape: "These Old Shoes" from 2007's War Elephant
June 19, 2009
JUNE 20: Midsummer Music Festival
If you enjoyed Virginia Highlands Summerfest a few weeks ago, you will not want to miss Midsummer Music Festival this Saturday in Candler Park. The music starts tomorrow at noon with Webster Humpage and goes strong until Guster takes the stage at 9:15 PM. Admission into the festival is FREE and wristbands to purchase alcohol are available for $5 before 5PM and $10 after.
Artist Lineup:
12:00 pm- WEBSTER HUMPAGE
1:00 pm- SOL JUNKIES
2:20 pm- HONEY ISLAND SWAMP BAND
3:50 pm- SONIA LEIGH
5:20 pm- JUPITER COYOTE
7:15 pm- RUSTED ROOT
9:15 pm- GUSTER
NEW MUSIC: Jaspects- See them live TONIGHT
Atlanta’s own Jaspects, is a band on the rise, with strong roots in jazz and hip-hop, they are certainly trying to move into uncharted territory on their new release, The Polkadotted Stripe. The album opener, “2112,” features R&B songstress Janelle Monae and pumps a strong electronic dance groove similar to that of the Black Eyed Peas. The album stays predominantly electronically influenced until about halfway, where the song “Like A Drum” sports a simple, catchy hook with pulsating drums and electric guitars. Two songs later comes the album’s strongest track, “Find My Way To Love,” led by local jazz singer Chantae Cann. This song’s musical structure is strictly jazz, with relaxed, but mature vocals. It’s here where Jaspects seems to be the most comfortable and the most effective. It seems they don’t have to try, but the talent and music simply speaks for itself.
Jaspects are a talented and unique group, no doubt, but the album seems to pull back and forth between, hip-hop, jazz, and electronic music with some difficulty. With dissonant chord structure, laid back lyrical approach, and a true passion for jazz, it’s hard to find consistency throughout the album. However, this attempted feat is one that few have tried and even fewer, if any, have overcome. There’s no doubt these musicians are talented and visionary, and where they want to go takes a lot of time and energy. If this band achieves its potential, it definitely will be a stylistic and musical breakthrough.
Catch Jaspects in Atlanta TONIGHT at the Apache Cafe.
Saying Goodbye to a Piece of Musical History
Athens' The Georgia Theatre was found burning early this morning, with no chance of recovery. This is a sad day for Georgia's music community and the city of Athens. It was an old venue that all Athens residents loved, myself included.
Many music lovers have stories to tell about seeing Patterson Hood, REM, the B-52s, and other great bands before the rest of the world knew who they were. With its hardwood floors, large stage, and tall ceilings, it felt like an old tavern where locals could go watch a hometown rock show, and that's exactly what it was. I had a dream of one day filling the Georgia Theatre with fans, as did most kids who played music in Athens.
Playing the Theatre meant that you could pull your weight, hold your own, and you and everyone there was going to have a good time, which always happened that way. The classic venue was a blessing to the city and music fans alike. Thank you Georgia Theatre for everything you've contributed to the Athens music scene and abroad.
-Ben Thompson
June 18, 2009
TONIGHT: Big Trouble in Little 5 with Ponderosa
Start your weekend early by causing some Big Trouble in Little Five Points at The Star Bar. Mixtape Atlanta favorites Ponderosa headline tonight's monthly FREE concert showcase. Tonight they will be joined by Kuroma and Gift Horse. Fun starts around 9PM. See you there!
LIVE Mix: Anberlin at Masquerade
Last night at the Masquerade, alternative rock band Anberlin opened up for Taking Back Sunday and it was a close race as to who actually stole the show.
Florida based Anberlin erupted with full on energy to a sold out night in Heaven. The crowd was absolutely packed, elbow to elbow, and sweaty with every soul in the room attempting to sing the lyrics just as loud as lead singer, Stephen Christian. Yet, each band member poured it on thick. It was obvious they felt their music from within and in the dense humid air you could feel the emotion oozing from each musician. Everyone in the audience was either swaying, doing the head nod, or crowd surfing. Playing new and olds songs, one of the night's standouts was an amazing version of the early 1990's hit, New Order's "True Faith". Where can I get my copy, fellas?
Since their inception in 2002 with five years and three albums under Tooth and Nail Records, Anberlin has singed with the big boys, Universal Republic Records. Under Universal, they released their latest album New Surrender, which has hit number one on Billboard's Hot Modern Rock Tracks and received heavy spins on Atlanta's 99x. Anberlin may be new to some, but they are planning on staying on top for awhile. Once you get your copy of New Surrender, it won't leave your car or ipod for at least several months. Get their new album and go see a show; you won't regret it. -Lauren St. Jane
June 17, 2009
Want tickets to Ryan Cabrera at Smith's Olde Bar this Saturday?
You may only know Ryan Cabrera because he dated Ashlee Simpson- admit you watched her reality show- but that should probably change. He has put his teenybopper days behind him, and you will see he is actually a really talented singer-songwriter. Oh, and he also returned to his infamous spiky hair.
Cabrera has a knack of knowing just what to “Say” to make the ladies swoon. His most recent album, The Moon Under Water was released a little over a year ago, and the song “I Will Remember You” was featured on this years American Idol finale.
Cabrera recently finished a tour that brought him to Atlanta in April with Josh Kelley. He is now back on the road with The Kin, Australian brothers Thorry and Issac, who have been making a name for themselves in the New York music scene.
Atlanta’s favorite “hot” pop-rocker, Ben Deignan and his band Suburban Soul will be opening the show, so this is sure to be a show for the ladies.
So, all you boys out there who think you are too manly to hang out at a Ryan Cabrera concert, you may want to think again. This might be the best place to meet the ladies, since Ryan and the gang will be warming them up!
Mixtape Atlanta has a pair of tickets to give away for the June 20th show at Smiths Olde Bar. Just shoot us an email ([email protected]) and tell us why you should win!
-Ariel Ufret
NEW MUSIC: County Line Strangers
On Heartbreak Motel, County Line Strangers combine classic country heartbreak and rock rowdiness to produce a promising alt-country album debut. With ten tracks spanning love, loss, and longing, this Atlanta/ Charleston quartet plays with creative imagery and musical progressions to create a mood of surrender. Whether succumbing to a hangover on the fast-paced “Sunday Morning” or yielding to a stagnant state of mind and life on “Armarillo Blues,” Strangers invokes a timeless sense of embracing restlessness.
Strangers flawlessly melt their music and lyrics without one distracting from the other, which shows the band’s established sound of playing together on different ventures for over six years. “Going to New York” illustrates this musical harmony where lyrics such as- where the steam from the subway in Chelsea looks like ghosts/ that stroll on down the street and then fade away- play against a dreamy, mellow country soundscape. Many bands try to use their debut albums to showcase all their best hits, but Strangers takes a chance in producing a mood-like album with a solid theme and emotion that runs throughout. Their gamble works, because it keeps the listener guessing and anxiously waiting to see where they will explore next.
Add this to your Mixtape: “Don’t Mean Nothing”- the opening track will add a little bounce to your step while humming the catchy chorus
Get your copy of Heartbreak Motel now at Amazon and iTunes. Also catch County Line Strangers live at Unplugged in the Park at Park Tavern with David Berkeley on July 12.
June 15, 2009
Listen to the new MUTE MATH song!
Mute Math is previewing a new song each week leading up to the release of their new album, Armistice, which hits stores on August 18th! You can hear it by clicking on the picture above or clicking here. Also, stay tuned to Mixtape Atlanta for Mute Math fall tour dates to be announced later this week. Our fingers are crossed for an Atlanta date!
