Mixtape Atlanta

Mixtape THIS: Mayday Parade

Why: For many bands, the dream of following around Vans Warped Tour while selling their demo in hopes of being signed to a record label is a stretch; however, for the Florida based band, Mayday Parade, their dream became a reality. After independently selling over twenty-thousand copies of their demo, Mayday Parade signed with Fearless Records in 2006. Released in the summer of 2007, their first studio album, A Lesson In Romantics, helped them soar through the year. Throughout the following year, the band toured with such acts as Emery, Pierce the Veil, All Time Low, The Maine, and obtained a spot on the 2008 Vans Warped tour. With the opportunities of being on such tours, they gained a wide fan base. The year 2009 brought more success for the band as they released their new album, Anywhere But Here, on Atlantic Records. Currently, Mayday Parade is on the Alternative Press Fall Ball Tour co-headlining with The Academy Is…, which will be in Atlanta on Wednesday, October 28th at the Masquerade.

For the fans of: A different take to alternative rock. With lead guitarist, Alex Garcia’s amazing shredding capabilities, and not one—but three—male singers, every song has a different vibe. From bitter break-up songs: “When I Get Home, You’re So Dead” from A Lesson In Romantics, to sharing a dream about being on the west coast, “Jamie All Over”, the catchy—sometimes witty—words and tunes will allow you to treat every song as it’s own.

Add this to your Mixtape: The only piano ballad song on Mayday Parade’s records, “Miserable At Best” from A Lesson in Romantics will allow anyone to feel a slight tug on one’s heart.

Mixtape THIS: Anthony David

Why: He’s the soulful representation of the “A” – Atlanta that is. Anthony David is the artistic combination of Bill Withers, Donny Hathaway, Anthony Hamilton, Mos Def, Musiq, Common and Curtis Mayfield. Anthony has written “A Part of My Life” for India Arie which ended up on the seven-time Grammy nominated album Strength, Courage & Wisdom. He has also contributed to many other songs that have appeared on Arie’s subsequent albums. He has already released two solo albums independently, both of which received high critical acclaim. Three Chords & The Truth and Red Clay Chronicles earned David nationwide fans and a spot onboard both India Arie's and Kems’ tour. He also headlined his own tour throughout Europe and Japan. His newest release Acey Deucy is a project full of real life experiences that is sure to have listeners captivated and able to relate.

For the fans of: Neo-Soul without the incense; an eclectic vibe that engulfs your soul in muddy red clay, chronicling your life through the sounds of music.

Add this song to your Mixtape: "Words (featuring India Arie)”

Ina Claggette

Mixtape THIS: Phoenix

It’s quite impressive for any band to be on the Billboard charts for over 10 weeks, but that is exactly what Phoenix has done since their album release in May for Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix. Phoenix has not only seen their album move up the charts, but the hit track “Lisztomania” is featured in a new Cadillac commercial. The band has seen their popularity rapidly rise, including performances on SNL, Jimmy Kimmel, and stores across the USA. Perhaps it is not so surprising considering that these talented musicians hail from a country that is glorified for the arts, and France’s Phoenix continues to bring the arts alive in modern times.

In the same vein of Daft Punk, MGMT, The Kooks and The Whitest Boy Alive, these guys draw elements of 1980s rock synth sounds, electric dance grooves and alternative rock. Made up of lead singer Thomas Mars, Bassist Deck d’Arcy, guitarists Christian Mazzalai and Laurent Brancowitz, these Frenchmen have certainly come a long way since their inception in 1999 playing in local bars performing covers of everything from American country to disco funk.

Embarking on a sold out American tour with opening act Chairlift, be sure to catch Phoenix at Little Five Points’ Criminal Records on September 30 at noon for a special in store appearance. Later that night, the Frenchmen will rock a sold out show at Variety Playhouse.

Sounds like: 80’s distorted synths, catchy pop sounds that’ll get the serotonin in your brain pumping with electric energy to put you in a good mood.

Add to your Mixtape: “Lisztomania"

Mixtape THIS: Club Awesome

Some might say that living up to a name with "awesome" in the title would be a challenge, and living up to rumors of elevating live performances even more difficult, but on Club Awesome's debut cd, Dynamos, the band proves that they could write the schoolbook for how it’s done. Indie and Hipster kids of all ages will enjoy dancing to the light disco pop feel Dynamos has to offer. Throughout the album, the prominent strumming of the bass line helps drive the already appealing rhythms of the various songs. The indie-pop track, “Supermagical” is the perfect soundtrack for an event like Kiss Atlanta’s East Atlanta Social Club. The song “Trainwreck” translates perfectly from the car radio to sing-alongs at their live show. Club Awesome’s impressive guitar solo on “Whyte Tygre” proves that this album has something for anyone’s musical taste. The entire cd has intense danceable tunes that will make you start counting down to their next live show.

Add this to your Mixtape: “Supermagical” because it’s awesome and magical!

Mixtape THIS: Owl City

Why: If anyone has questions to do with self-motivation or promotion, send them to the Minnesota based band, Owl City. Comprised of only one band member, twenty-three year old Adam Young, Owl City came to the public eye through the social and music-networking site, MySpace. Before self-releasing two albums (Of June EP and Maybe I’m Dreaming), Owl City posted the track, “Hello Seattle” on their music profile to an over-whelming response with more than five million plays. The summer of 2009 produced more hits with Owl City releasing Ocean Eyes, his first album on Universal Republic Records. Eyes' first single, "Fireflies," is a cheery-syntho-pop song about Young wanting his dreams to last longer. Currently, Owl City is on a headlining tour across the USA, including a recent sold-out show at The Loft.

For the fans of: Taking a relaxing stroll around the park while slightly bobbing the head listening to a high-spirited syntho-pop tune.

Add this to your Mixtape: Put on “Fireflies” for the days in which you would rather drift away in your dreams than live in reality.

Mixtape THIS: Heston

Why: Heston is one of the hottest new artists in the indie soul scene. This British West Indies born singer-songwriter has a vibe that is a throwback to the best of 1970s mellow soul. He combines excellent storytelling with melodic grooves to produce thought proving and smooth music. His sound is heavily influenced by artists such as Elton John, Marvin Gaye, Al Green, Michael Jackson, Stevie Wonder, The Bee Gees, and Bob Marley. These people were pivotal in his development as a songwriter and a singer. This influence can be heard on his latest album Storyteller, which has helped launched him into global success.

For the fans of: Music that takes you on a love high, evoking sensuality, like a lovers teasing caress, relaxing minds, healing broken hearts, a soulful melody that will simply leave you saying "yes"

Add this song to your Mixtape: "Radio" from Storyteller

-Ina Claggette

Mixtape THIS: Black Joe Lewis and The Honeybears

Why: Allow me to take you back to a time when soul ruled the dance floor. Clubs and bars were packed with smoke, women covered dance floors in Jackie Kennedy dresses and beehives, blues musicians ruled, and funk was emerging with a busy horn section. Lead by guitarist and singer Black Joe Lewis and backed by his band The Honeybears, this Austin based 1960s retro soul band is starting to steal the scene.  They began in 2007, after Lewis picked up a guitar while working in a pawn shop and have now been labeled by Esquire Magazine as one of the “Ten Bands Set to Break Out at 2009’s SXSW Festival.”

Drawing from blues roots, modern R&B, extensive vamping and vintage “call and response” solos and chorus, this band must make the “The Godfather of Soul” proud. Obvious sounds emote the inspiration from Howlin Wolf, Wilson Pickett, Bo Diddly and even smooth crooners like Sam Cooke.  You’ll be surprised they have no blood relation to these founders of soul music, I kept looking in liner notes for some famous recognition, yet something inside of this band convinces me the founders of soul embody Black Joe Lewis and the Honeybears and are praising them from up high. This weekend they gear up for Lollapalooza surrounded by the newest chart topping acts. Although they may be considered a little green, it will not come as a surprise if they are hailed for an encore after their performance. If you are at Lollapalooza, be sure to catch their set and tell us about it!

For Fans of: Soul food, reliving your mom's childhood, soul glory days, dancing the mashed potato

Add this Song to Your Mixtape: “Sugarfoot” from Tell ‘Em What Your Name Is  

Mixtape THIS: Jaspects

Why: They’re in a class all their own. Deeply rooted in jazz, Jaspects is known to evoke the spirit of such great hits like Freddie Hubbard’s classic “Red Clay” mixed with OutKast’s “Cadillac Doors”. Combining hip-hop, funk, and a whole lot of jazz, this Atlanta based sextuplet is one of the hottest band around. They’ve been described as a Jazz band with futuristic overtones. They’ve collaborated with musical geniuses such as Grammy nominated artist Janelle Monae and appeared in 2005's major motion picture Hustle and Flow. On their newest release, The Polkadotted Stripe, it is obvious they’ve taken the art form to another level. Not to be under estimated or ignored, Jaspects reaches the urban renaissance in us all.

For the fans of: Cheese Grits, brass horns, and music that takes you on a funky down home futuristic ride.

Add this song to your Mixtape: "2012" featuring Janelle Monae

-Ina Claggette

Mixtape THIS: Apes of Wrath

Why: With a name reminiscent of what could be a Mad Magazine movie spoof (Planet of the Apes & Grapes of Wrath anybody?), you will find that Apes of Wrath have a sense of humor that runs deep. Apes of Wrath have been building a following in their local San Diego for years and are planning on unleashing their brand of indie post-punk on the world with their upcoming full length debut, due in the Fall of 2009. In 2008 we received a bit of a teaser of what was to come with their self titled Apes of Wrath EP. Earlier this year at SXSW, Apes of Wrath headlined opposite Athens own Dead Confederate at the SXSW Obscure Magpie 14hr Party. Clever name aside; the crunchy guitar riffs, driving rhythms and brooding vocals will have you emphatically spreading the word to your friends about Apes of Wrath. Take the fun of Maximo Park, the rock of Queens of the Stone Age and a voice reminiscent of Joy Division's Ian Curtis and you get Apes of Wrath. With ties to Atlanta I am sure their first show here will be a sell out so keep an eye out for when that happens; Mixtape Atlanta will be your source for those details. In the meantime if you find yourself on the west coast, looking for a good time, here are 4 guys who are ready and willing to make that happen.

For the fans of: Music you want to listen to while driving 150mph in a high speed chase*.

Add this song to your Mixtape: "Death Train" from Apes of Wrath EP

*We here at Mixtape Atlanta do not condone any actions which lead you into a high speed chase; only the selection of proper music for such occasions.

Mixtape THIS: YahZarah

Why: YahZarah’s not the usual “Neo-Soul” songstress –she’s HOT! She’s an artist who invokes memories of the greatest soul artists of the past. Her sultry, soulful vocals have been undeniably recognized in groundbreaking musical compositions with global renowned artists such as Erykah Badu, Little Brother, and Nicolay. She’s also been featured heavily on The Foreign Exchange’s latest album Leave It All Behind. This DC born, North Carolina residing songstress is the infusion of Tina Turner, Parliament and Minnie Riperton. On her latest release The Ballad of Purple St. James, she blends sexy with soul and kicks it up a few notches to high intensity funk.

For fans of: Music that is so good you can taste it; music that is sexy, melodic, and overflowing with soulful sensations.

Add this song to your Mixtape: "Orbit" 

-Ina Claggette

Mixtape THIS: The All-American Rejects

Why: Pop-Rock is not the first genre you would expect a band, who hails from Stillwater, Oklahoma, to play; however, that’s where The All-American Rejects call their home. Since their self-entitled debut album in 2003, All-American Rejects have progressed immensely. Their third studio album, 2008’s When the World Comes Down, proves that they kept their same debut charm, while maturely advancing in their music. The first single off the new album, “Gives You Hell”, is much different from 2002’s first single, “Swing, Swing”, but you’ll find yourself singing along just the same like it was seven years ago, minus the trucker hat on your head.

For the fans of: real meaningful pop-rock lyrics that will cause you to hit repeat

Put this on your Mixtape: "Breakin'" from When the World Comes Down

Don't miss The All-American Rejects play after the Braves vs. Mets game at Turner Field on Saturday, July 18. The game starts at 4:00PM and the band will start playing twenty minutes after the last out. They will also be back in Atlanta with Blink 182 at Lakewood Amphitheatre on September 29.

Mixtape THIS: Today the Moon, Tomorrow the Sun

Why: When listening to music either live or on any device, many bands fail to bring the same exact feeling and appeal. However, in this case, Today the Moon, Tomorrow the Sun captures one’s attention no matter how you are enjoying them. With two EP releases within 2008, Hurry Up & Wait and The Lightning Exhibit, they have hit 2009 with a bang by frequently playing venues throughout Atlanta. Lead singer, Lauren Gibson, has an amazing stage presence along with her innocent, yet charismatic voice; you will be yearning to hear more from each song. The song, “Autonomic (traits of a traitor)”, will become your new favorite dance track and you’ll be glad to have this song stuck in your head to get you through your work day.

For the fans of: Rolling down your windows in the car and being proud of what you’re listening to on your stereo

Add this song to your Mixtape: “Autonomic (traits of a traitor)” from The Lightning Exhibit EP

Want to see what all the hype is about?  See them live! Today the Moon, Tomorrow the Sun will be playing the Drunken Unicorn on Friday, July 10th with Jungol. Be ready to jam and dance! 

Veronica Yung

Mixtape THIS: Foals

Why:  Math Rock is not a classification many bands hold and it is not necessarily as you would initially imagine. Math Rock frequently uses asymmetrical time signatures such as 7/8, 11/8, or 13/8.  For British band Foals this lends their music to an ever changing cadence as the guitars and drums take the forefront of their frenetic debut album Antidotes, which was produced by TV on the Radio's Dave Sitek.  Their sound is described as a minimalist punk-funk techno concoction and resembles something Talking Heads might have recorded.  Antidotes graced many Top 50 Album lists of 2008 and in many instances received Top 5 placement.  Now lets hope for a stateside tour in the near future. 

For the fans of:  Bloc Party, Mute Math, Talking Heads

Add this song to your Mixtape: "Olympic Airways" from 2008's Antidotes

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

Mixtape THIS: Deer Tick

Why:  Where do we start with Deer Tick, a band that has just been named Rolling Stones #1 Breaking Band of SXSW 2009?  Well I am going to simply let that speak for itself. Drawing comparisons to and reflecting the influences of John Prine, Hank Williams and Bob Dylan; John Joseph McCauley III and band are releasing their second album Born on Flag Day on June 23, 2009.  "These Old Shoes" is a shuffling country rocker, from their first release, about traveling on crashing planes, trains and automobiles which closes with a chorus of "Yes, I will take these old shoes to get to you"; now that's dedication people.

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

Mixtape THIS: Richard Swift

Why: This piano-driven, euro-rock artist is making a strong attempt to break into mainstream popularity, and we hope he succeeds. Despite Richard Swift's indie roots and quirky style, his catchy songs can still hold their own against current tour mates The Fray and Jack’s Mannequin. Catch their show tonight at Chastain Amphitheater- doors at 7pm and you can buy tickets here. Mixtape Atlanta will be there!

For the fans of: a British guy that doesn’t really fit with those in his genre. He’s tougher than Keane, more mellow than The Killers, and weird/awesome in a Radiohead kind-of-way. If you looking for Brit rock that’s making an attempt to go somewhere new, check out Richard Swift.

Add this song to your Mixtape: “Lady Luck” from The Atlantic Ocean
-Ben Israel Thompson

Mixtape THIS: Miss Derringer

Why: Well... who doesn't enjoy the sounds of early 50's rock with a hot chick lead singer? Lets face it... the 50's were the beginning of a revolutionary time for music and Miss Derringer is making waves in modern times.  This LA-based band blends vintage music of the late 50s and early 60s with sounds of the early girl groups with backup dancers, the Derringer-ettes. Lead singer, Liz, must have taken careful notes or more likely her voice is a fine reincarnation. Their sound, infused with modern rock guitars and lyrics that focus on the usual: religion, relationships, prison, and alcohol- are the sounds that outlaw rock rebels. This, matched with their theatrical stylish look alone sets them apart. With two albums already under their belt, be on the look out for their third album "Winter Hill", which hits next month. Better yet, see them live tonight! You better be dancing and you might want to slick your hair back to check out this rock band with a throwback. Playing with Girl In A Coma tonight at Masquerade- Hell, All Ages 8pm.     

For the fans of:  Dixie Cups and June Cash with a little less twang and more rockabilly.

Add this song to your Mixtape: "Heartbreaks and Razorblades"

-Lauren St. Jane

Mixtape THIS: The Beta Band

Why: The Beta Band scored big when John Cusack name dropped thier band in a highly memorable quote from 2000's "High Fidelity" ("I will now sell five copies of The Three EPs by The Beta Band").  Their sound was a blend of trip-hop, folk, electronic and rock that allowed their well crafted jams to flow with the members sometimes goofy lyrics like "the loose lipped trouble dutch double on the monkey / you can see it in his face when you hear it in his voice" from "Dragon". The Beta Band's members may have parted ways in 2004 but there are 3 projects which continue and expand upon the sound they started:  The Aliens, The General and Duchess Collins and King Biscuit Time. If you like The Beta Band be sure to check these out.

For the fans of:  Beck with a bit more of a psychodelic jam-band tone

Add this song to your Mixtape: "Dragon" from 2001's Hot Shots II

-Jon Atchison

Mixtape THIS: John Cougar Mellencamp

Today's artist: John Cougar Mellencamp

Why: I am going to assume the position that John Cougar Mellencamp is as American as apple pie.  Being sampled, covered and referenced by artists in the following 27 years since the release of "Jack and Diane" has found its place in our history.  This song is bound to recall memories of your youth as you subconscienciously find yourself nodding along.

For the fans of: Anything; there is not a man, woman or child who could pass on a little ditty 'bout Jack and Diane

Add this song to your Mixtape: "Jack and Diane" from 1982's American Fool - Jon Atchison

Mixtape THIS: Lauryn Hill

Today’s artist: Lauryn Hill

Why: She’s everything modern hip-hop wishes it could be. With her work with The Fugees, she proved she was a female who’s rhymes are evidence that hip-hop is not just a man’s world. The Fugees disbanded and Hill embarked on a solo career that showed her soulful side, crooning melodies not unlike Mavis Staples, Aretha Franklin, and Mary J. Blige.

For the fans of: An intense paradox--witty, flowing lyrics, and melodies with a vocal range that makes you forget it’s not soul from the ‘60’s

Add this song to your Mixtape: “Doo Wop (That Thing)” from 1998's The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill -Ben Thompson