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The Buffalo Decency Rally III Saturday 3 November 2012. 6 pm until ???? at Adam Mickiewicz Library and Dramatic Circle .
informally known as "The Polish Library" which is welcoming ethnic club on Buffalo's east side.
located at 612 Fillmore. GPS it, nerd---it's very close to the 33/Kensington Expressway Science Center exit. $5.
bands perfoming:
Ancients of Earth, 6pm (upstairs)
Real People, 6:30pm (downstairs)
Wreckage, 7pm (upstairs)
Small Axe, 7:30pm (downstairs)
Beardage, 8pm (upstairs)
Water Torture, 8:30pm (downstairs)
Total Overcomers, 9pm (upstairs)
Cages, 9:30pm (downstairs)
Human Touch, 10pm (upstairs)
Plates, 10:30pm (downstairs)
Gas Chamber, 11pm (upstairs)
Returners, 11:30pm (downstairs)
Jack Topht, midnight (upstairs)
Mallwalkers, 12:30am (downstairs)
Malarchuk, 1a.m. (upstairs)
Curated by the dashing Aaron Weese, the man who unearthed the welcoming AMLADC™ as a music venue. Used mostly for larger shows due to it's proximity to the city and large space, although the upstairs has a small, stage-less, more intimate space where bands will also be performing giving you little time to grab a drink, go outside for a smoke--or a fantastic bite to eat at the mobile AMY'S PLACE FOOD TRUCK (it's not just for veggie heads, either!) in between. I've been stalking this truck and have been delighted on each occasion.
The Polish Library is an cool, multi room, separated smoky bar offering a wild selecting of Eastern Bloc Beers and a character not found in many places. The price is right, they will inevitably run out of it and it packs a punch. and you can enjoy a Poppe Shoppe™ cream soda after to enhance your hangover or replace the booze with altogether, if that's how you roll. The club was established in 1895 and is named after a national Polish Poet, activist and political writer. Active in Poland achieving independence, he wrote Lithuanian folk songs. Yes, I've read up on the man.
Though i won't be breaking down each band and why you should give them 20 or so minutes of your life, i can tell you that this year is more varied than in years passed and that's no slap in the face of the 2 previous rallies. Both have been high energy, highly populated all you can eat buffet's of Buffalo bands, mostly of the louder/heavy variety. Last year, the Rally had to reloacate to the Dnipro Ukranian center, an absolutely beautiful structure with an even more cavernous room. The sound suffered, but the exception to any accusations this mega-show is one-dimensional was the dramatic Cages filling the enormous room with a voice that needs to be heard to be believed. This is complex, post-something I am not fit to properly describe, filled the room backed with guitar shards and solemn sounds. Maybe the most challenging act on the bill. The band has releases on labels in other countries and probably should be witnessed by the discriminating Buffalo music fan. I wouldn't be surprised if Cages were much more well known outside of the city. Here is a chance to catch something powerful without power chords.
Water Torture are two fellas who have been a rhythm section for several years now, musically attached at what's left of their brain cells. This speaks nothing of their intelligence and more of their approach to life and blasting bass and drums purging self decribed grindcore violence. They have a new 7", too. WT have wittled things down to just the two of them (some past projects included first year crowd pleasers, Inerds and a quarter ounce of others).
Gas Chamber plays it darker, and their latest 7" is a well put together package that perfectly exposes the bands leaning towards, dark, unpleasant realities. They are beyond a band at this point-they are a unit; a pack. They take what they do very seriously--as it should be, and the result may be too much for some to handle, but they wouldn't have it any other way. And that's a beautiful thing. Meanwhile, Mallwalkers boast a expanding horn section (but don't get the wrong idea), a second vocalist (Jamie from the crushing Human Touch who are also playing and have a new 7" on Feral Kid, too) alongside the braintrust of Handsome Dan Carosa and are in it for the fun, but have excelled as they have continued and evolved--especially the inventive guitar work of this soulful punk band that leans toward the fun, the dancing, the getting out of the malls and into the goddamn streets. Several vinyl and tape releases in and some great press last year, if they can keep the gang together, are poised for bigger things.
Buffalo's Returners are among the best bands in town at the moment, a post-punk jugernaut that picks up elements of mark's record collection and, along with familiar bandmate Tony F. on bass (the prolific Dr. Stephen Floyd adding essential left guitar and Renee Roberts on drums) creating some of the best indie rock in the city, hands down. It wouldn't be pandering or a stretch to say they are among Buffalo's top bands and upcoming releases are highly anticipated. For now, the demo is what we have to work with.
Perhaps the longest running band on the bill are Buffalo nativesSmall Axe (they live in the capital district now, i think--though thats off the top of my head and it's 5 a.m.). This band has been at it, in one incarnation or another, playing garagey, heady psych-stoner rock since the earliest days of the 90s when Asbury Alley was a haven for a social miscreant like myself. Still going strong and more equally relevant well over a decade later, they will be joined by the young but no less heavy Malarchuk , a heavy duty Sabbathy, driving rock band. Undoubtedly Malarchuk will be labelled 'stoner', 'doom' 'downer' and whatever people who write about music (oh shit...) grab to in a lazy way of describing heavy rock and roll, done well--but not overcooked. They are a young band but boast a healthy pedigree of d00dz who know what the time is, so to speak.
Equal parts buffalo-rochester punk rock blasters Beardage bring it in your face, and keep it straight forward. Fronted by Kevin M.--a man who will certainly be brought up years from now (as he is already) as among Buffalo's wildest and best frontmen. But it ain't just antics here, it's adrenalin rush backed by Adam (fun rochester guy with the banter) and mild and wild Foster bringing the intense riffage. Great songs when so many many bands get the sound right and forget they need hooks to back it up. You'll also get music from yours truly, via Plates. And the eccentric rapper Jack Topht, who I've admired since his days playing 3 or 4 instruments at a time in Next Syphilis years ago.
Curater Weese and his powerhouse drummer Steve K (or is it a C.?) in hibernating Sonorous Gale will be playing as The Total Overcomers who I'll be catching for the first time. The same can be said for Real People and Wreckage -- a hardcore band featuring ex-members of Get Back Up and Buried Alive. Both bands have new recordings from 2012 available. Check out their links.
And let us not forget the mysterious, quietly crushing sounds of Ancients of Earth . AoE appeared on Warm Bath Label compilation 7" Buffalo Brutality last year but head towards spacey, sparse, quiet and beautiful instrumentals. An interesting band captured on tape by Mr. Ski Mask at his fabled and always improving Electric Pumpkin Patch Studio.
Hopefully, the preview was helpful--maybe you already know or maybe you're in a band. There are certainly some great bands milling around town right now who are NOT playing this show, but here's a chance to catch a good lot of them on one special night at one special place. Do it. Adam Mickiewicz would have wanted you to.
It's fall and that's a bittersweet time of the year for me--my favorite season but also a time to remember some lost people who too loved fall or left this world in the fall. The leaves are blowing inside (sometimes faster than the customers), the neighborhood critters are seeking warmer hangouts and lots of killer music to sooth the pain and prepare us for the inevitable cold.
The last month or so has been littered with some killer shows--some bands we watched "grow up" like thee Oh Sees and Ty Segall (but even their growing audiences haven't changed their attidudes, personalities or great music a bit), some who had grown up and left us only to return for a brief moment ( Hot Snakes earliest lineup passed as close as Toronto and let me say i HATE going to shows in Toronto--mainly the drive home, but the 'Snakes brought their a-game the the Horseshoe on this night and were stunningly great even tossing in an old Drive Like Jehu song towards the end), our own production (seed planted by terminal-boredoms Chuck Barrels) of Nobunny, Apache Dropout, Bad Sports and support from 2 of Buffalo's top acts-Mallwalkers and White Whale. Memphis' CHEAP TIME made their third (underappreciated) stop through Buffalo in support of their third lp--the killer-pop of 'Wallpaper Music'. Godspeed You! Black Emperor took a decade to put out a new album and pass through town,
I missed the saucy and talented Frankie Rose and attended a wedding while Rocket From The Tombs set Mohawk ablaze (again?!) but perhaps the top of the heap was the Pleasure Leftists playing to firewood stealing/no cover paying Rochester cretins (this one set up by the handsome young Get Mugged Gaffney) in a rented park cabin in an otherwise dark and deserted wooded area of Pittsford, just outside the crotch metro area itself. The Pleasure Leftists bring a dark, brooding and erie brand of british post-punk (ala Joy Division--weak reference point, i know but it's true) with possibly the strongest female vocalist in any band on the planet at this time. Incredible presence and projection from an otherwise humble front-woman leading this awesome quartet out of Cleveland. Probably the best touring band i've seen all year, or at least up there at the top. They have a 12" on Fan Death we occasionally stock--it's absolutely essential and crushes many of our top sellers of similar stock. Look for a new batch of songs on the supercool HOZAC label hopefully by springtime. Take a listen to their track "SUITS" from the self titled 12" and some poor sound quality live footage won't be far.
So, whats new? Well in anticipation of Indie Black Friday, there have been a plethora (yes, El Guapo i do know what a plethora is and you do, indeed, have a plethora of pinatas.)
In the last update, a few of the bands mentioned, as well as in the above paragraphing mentioning some significant national tours, have bequeathed upon us brand new albums. Thee Oh Sees 'Putrifiers II', Ty Segall--almost as ridiculously prolific as his pals thee Oh Sees put out a raw, killer 2x 10" 'Slaughterhouse' and has since, back to the Drag City label, released some more of his best work in years on the TWINS lp (theres also a 2 track 7" teaser which preceded it) which may not be quite as raw as Slaughterhouse but is full of thick guitar/drum pounders with melodic intentions that almost seems effortless for this young fella. Both Twins and Slaughterhouse may be two completely different and essential beasts--and beasts they are, they leave last years Drag City debut 'Goodbye Bread' in the dust. Where Slaughterhouse was for the fans who have been following Segall all along, TWINS will be the record to, not only keep the fanboys and girls happy, but break him into a much wider audience. With the hype behind him and the killer tunes to back it up--expect Segall to be reaching a much wider audience while he continues to do what he was dropped on to this earth to do--produce killer rock and roll music. If he weren't busy enough writing, recording and touring relentlessly, Segall (who toured with Mikal Cronin who played bass in 'the Ty Segall Band', he remains a reoccurring drummer in the cool as shit SIC ALPS who also have recently released a brand new full length--a self-titled lp. Don't overlook the "underlooked" Sic Alps if yer a fan of the above mentioned artists--they are weirder and won't be filling huge clubs with fratboys trying to crowd surf, but they are no less an essential piece of this puzzle often drawing weirder pop-psychedelia with big chunks of Syd Barrett influences. Their consistency has been puzzling on essential lp's like US EZ--but when they're on, they are ON. The double singles collection is a great starting point, but what i've heard from 2012s Sic Alps is no slouching point (is that a term? it is at 5:42 am). Aw screw it, here's the video for the track "Glyphs". Sic Alps also are on Drag City, the label who recently has offered up a fine reissue of Royal Trux "Accelerator" (1998) and their "untitled" lp's--both in stock right now.
Sic Alps video taken from Sic Alps lp 2012
A little late, as this update tends to be--were some key releases from a few upstart bands as well as some real winners from artists we haven't heard anything new from for awhile. Godspeed You! Black Emperor put out their first lp in nealry a decade which is still in stock (barely). From the Matador Group--Cat Power (Chan...meow!!!) has been mulling around 6 years before her highly anticipated SUN lp hit the shelves on the same day as The Xx's 'Coexist'. The Deluxe version of Coexist was delayed and has arrived and in stock along with their self-titled debut which remain at their lowest prices anywhere! Don't be ripped by lazy, big box stores selling "hot new bands for credibility" at laughable prices--well you won't be laughing when you realized you paid $10 more than our list price. That will always be the case as we tend to order direct to label or true independent distributor.
Often stores will reap the 'cred' of calling themselves INDEPENDENT when they are bringing in inflated priced product from the great satan companies who still don't get it.
Apache Dropout's second lp is fitting for Halloween but don't expect campy spookrock--anyone who saw their performance with NOBUNNY knows this upstart band is full-on midwestern weirdo psych-garage stripped dowwners rising from the basements of Lafayette, IN and even into the grimy paws at Pitchfork™ (who also loved them) . By the time their rickety van hit Buffalo, they had a room full of rabid fans complimenting their brilliant set.
Pinback, Dinosaur Jr (who continue with the original line-up who brought it all back on the stunning FARM lp) both return with their unique, seminal sounds all their own.
On the locally bred front, most recently, comes a beautiful third lp and 7" single from Roger Bryan/the Orphans (a band loaded with some of Buffalo's ace songwriters/players/bartenders/recording engineers/record collecting dudes) --"37" which is released on the bands own Harvest Sum--an outlet for a band who should probably be on a much larger label to distribute such hard efforts.
On a darker, much more aggressively brutal front comes the ingeniously packaged GAS CHAMBER 7" compliments Warm Bath Label--another pro-quality underground local label run by the paychecks/beer ca return money of it's braintrust. The first Gas Chamber 7" and the longplayer along with an amzingly well shot and recorded RUNNING FOR COVER DVD documenting one of our most well remembered and important hardcore units final two shows. One shot at the ol' Sit-n-Spin (the shop which became Spiral Scratch) and the finale at Kitchen Distribution. Essential and available only here or through Warm Bath Label.
WATER TORTURE a familiar 2 piece bombastic duo who have really come into their own with this most recent project of just the two of them, have a 7" (acclaimed in many reviews nationally) out that is going to sell out, seasoned veterans OLD GHOSTS (lp & 7") -who happen to be our source for an occasional offering of DEAD HEARTS (reunion show in the works).
cassette label DRUG PARTY continues to offer us their killer releases on cassette format which has been the choice of voice for non-related but no less worthy recent works from reborn songwriter (currently finishing an album backed by the mysterious Magi Chipi) Bill "Tracy Morrow" Nehill (each with individual hand drawn cover art) and Area Denial.
The Numero Group, outspoken critics of the darker side of Record Store Day, is a fine re-issue label known for unearthing obscure gems (from soul/classic r&b to power pop) and beautiful packaging with great sounding (and looking) records. " Buttons: From Champaign to Chicago " is 2 lp's worth packed with obscure power pop gems previously only known to rabid collectors with fat wallets. Obviously a regional compilation, the Numero Group is the real deal and this twin set is bringing that out into the open. At a price that seems like a steal, they also prove that labels charging $20 for a bare bones, single lp with half-assed packaging are once again, ripping off the customer or squeezing the retailer. This comp has been largely ignored in the shop since it's arrival and I'm warning you not to pass it by as they were probably pressed in a limited quantity.
More reissues of note. Sugar - Copper Blue Sugar - File Under Easy Listening
Following the breakup of the legendary hardcore to pop band Husker Du both song writers/vocalists Bob Mould and Grant Hart embarked on solo careers. Meanwhile, bassist Greg Norton continued to sport his fantastic mustache and became a chef leaving music behind. the others weren't finished. A messy breakup it was, Hart struck first with his criminally underrated Intolerance which SST (Huskers label for much of their career) which was recorded all by himself with pointed songs aimed at his former bandmate, drug abuse, etc. Meanwhile, Mould was taking the high road recording a few well received lp's before settling into a "band". When Copper Blue first came out, I recall being blown away and stunned--it's not that the prior solo albums were that bad--this was just so much MORE. What i was craving. Intense was the (attached to this reissue making it a double lp) Beaster 12", some of Moulds angriest, most aggresive songs since the Husker days but not without the trademark melody. Also included are a batch of b-sides and an entire live show. Holy crap. File Under: Easy Listening continues on attaching an extra disc of b-sides and boisterous live material. Essential.
the Men - Immaculata Prior to the Men gaining notoriety with their last two Sacred Bones releases--they debuted with Immaculata (as a full length) with a limited pressing of 500--which are obviously all gone by now. Thanks to the supercool Deranged Records, this is now available again (along with their 2 latest) just in time for their passing through Buffalo on November 12th. 8 songs of desperate, fuzzed out, riff laden punk/post-punk that is both dreamy and droney--a sign of incredible things to come when Sacred Bones picked them in 2011 for the highly acclaimed "Leave Home" lp, a more aggresive, louder and noisier foray and this years all-over-the-map "Open Up Your Heart". In Stock.
Monoshock - Walk Into The Fire "A Buried Treasure" (MOJO mag), which Julian Cope declared "a Barbarian Classic" this mid-90's (1995 to be precise) garage-psych opus taps into the Stooges "Funhouse" along with earlier seminal bands names dropped such as Blue Cheer, Hawkwind and Amon Dull II blending into a monstrous double-lp masterwork which has been highly sought after 20 years after it flew--rampaged it's way under the radar of phony grunge rock and other alt.bullshit. Hashtag that. Revered by many of it's hometown bay area bands such as Comets on Fire and the Wooden Shjips as a prime influence, this reissue is beautifully (how that word works its way into a Monoshock write-up is beyond me) with extensive liner notes and a heavy cardboard tip-on gatefold jacket. What else could be expected by the excellent S-S records who probably tossed a download code inside as well. Fans of the heavy psych-punk genre should not miss this one if their lives depend upon it.
Of course there's a lot more to mention, but this has taken 3 days to complete and we should let you in on these things before they're gone. Some other notable incoming that I'll talk about more next time is a few Siltbreeze reissues of note: Dead C "Harsh 70's Reality" 2x lp . Originally released in 1992, this was the bands fourth outing, an ambitious double album and with it preceding two well received albums--it had huge shoes to fill.
'People say that rock music died with the passing of Kurt Cobain. But The
Dead C slaughtered it in its sleep with this tremendous set of grinding
thud. It is in every sense the ultimate post-rock album. To hear it is
to understand why one scribe back in the day referred to their sound as
“a garbage truck backing over the abyss.” A legendary release from a
legendary band on a legendary label.'
Then, a world away in Australia was Flying Nun's obscure Max Block "Air Ache In The Belly Of The Leech". Few ever got their paws on this bands (who soon after became the Renderers) because it never saw official release. Until now, that is in which this long player has pressed it along with some odds and sods for side 2. Says Siltbreeze: "the Max Block pushed different boundaries than
other active Christchurch bands at the time; they came out slinging a
brain-splattering goo of art-spaced, Pere-Ubu-seared cerebellum, and
frenetic, Mars-fried medula oblongata." It's quite good stuff as well and is limited to 500 reissued copies.
The Feeling of Love - Dissolve Me This french band first caught me with their second long player, OK Judge Revival -- a Velvetsy influenced (with inspiration from the Fall/Country Teasers) romper of an lp that we were pushing before the fire in the shop. (my copy has charred corners but otherwise no fire-damage) It quickly became a staff favorite and has certainly aged well since it's 2010 release. In that time a 12", Suck/Soul/Porn (2009) seemed like it should be wedged betwixt the 2010 lp and this, the incredible Dissolve Me lp released stateside on Kill Shamen. Saving my favorite record of the lot for last, (Jesus Christ, i forgot to mention the Avengers self-titled classic seeing an official release for the first time, yet bootlegs have been readily available all along-Four Men With Beards has unleashed this. Proper. sorry. back to what i was saying...) Dissolve Me is the best album we (myself included) didn't hear that was released in 2011. Probably one of the best bands we haven't heard of that we would dig, a shift in gears to the synthy/guitar driven follow the dots masterpiece that will catch you right away. Key words overused like psych/synth/guitar/dreamy/droning/garagey (ever so slightly) all finally fit as each song is a new direction so subtle you'll barely notice as it unravels and shifts gears song to song. It's the record I put on and whoever happens to be listening asks "who is this?" It's time everyone discovers this way overlooked band before they DISSOLVE. Their releases are not always long-lasting so grab them while you can. This is fantastic record that is a familiar cat that is all it's own, minimal enough but not aping anything in particular--but a dose of Spacemen 3 if you require a name drop. Getting the sound AND getting the songs right on. What else can I say? Discover this band any way you can. Right now Dissolve Me remains where i set it the day it came in. A+. The best was saved for last this time.
Here is the opening track in YouTube form:
Thank you for reading, feel free to leave a comment or spread this along. this is our website for now and I hope it's helpful for keeping you aware of what's been coming in and some of the more obscure stuff I know you will dig.
next update:
Buffalo's Third Annual Decency Rally Preview/Indie Black Friday/More Stock/a peek into our thousands of incoming used records/Our 4 Year Anniversary In-Store Customer Appreciation Party.
phew. Happy Halloween, folks.
--anchovies 10/28/12 11:27 p.m.
###
Monday, September 3, 2012
Shame on me...not an update since the chaos/good time that was Record Store Day '12. They even changed the format so i'm not sure how this will turn out, but let's catch up with some new incoming stock and backtrack on a few cool shows we had in the Dungeon.
First, a cassette only release for Bill "tracy morrow" Nehill--Spiral Scratch's Comeback Playa of the Year. As usual, an emotional, soulful set of some new songs and a few crowd-pleasing oldies. Bill has also returned, full throttle as a Scratcher, a consultant and one of our best pals since day 1. Tapes, tapes, tapes...they are coming out as cheap, throwback ways for bands to quickly unleash their sounds. Even an all-cassette label, Drug Party (whom we've talked about when they first fired up) is probably the most active.
A bit louder was the raging hardcore of Buffalo's BetterXTimes (whom i happen to dig quite a bit sprouting from a genre i am quite picky with) hosting Clevelands AGES along with Juggernaut and another Ohio touring band called Juggernaut. A fun show that didnt leave the joint stinking of beer and armpits.
Stay tuned for upcoming events at the Scratch by either liking our non-overbearing facebook page, twitter, buffaloshows.net .
Another exciting thing is we actually sorta won something significant--Buffalo's Best Hipster Hangout. A little taken aback at first as such an odd category was created and we ddint know we had been picked until the night of the awards--in BUFFALO SPREE magazine. Look, we're all hipsters in this msuic thing we're all hooked on, so let that not scare you away. You will never run into a room full of beret wearin', thrift store dressed music snobs--we're open to hipsters from all walks of life...including frumpy, down to earth music lovers super stoked to find that Near Mint copy of Deep Purple's Perfect Strangers in the dollar bin to run home and spark one up to. I'm still not sure what makes someone a hipster...if it's an insult or a compliment. Would you rather be a square? I dunno...but if you pass through our doors, you're instantly alright by me (until you piss me off).
Another bit of exciting news is that we will turn 4 'round Halloween time. Recalling the night fire nearly sunk us (and thanks Rise Above Tattoo guys--the coolest tattoo joint this inkless dork can ever claim), never thought we'd be trudging through another 2 years. Thanks Buffalo, and all visitors who've supported us. Most of all, thank you for your patience. Sometimes it all gets overwhelming and those special orders just cant go out or can't be found and sometimes it was my fault. Sometimes people ordered records only never to return. Often, it was crap we couldnt give away. And since a lot of vinyl is non-returnable, well....it hurt. But with the help of some great friends (you will see them behind the counter from time to time), we are really back on our feet with a vengeance and super excited about some new releases from thee Oh Sees 'Putrifiers II' lp (due in any day now), Ty Segall Band 'Slaughterhouse' 2x 10" (while i don't care for the 10" format, this is a fuckin' killer release in a long line of 'em from Segall and other bands/projects he's been associated like Sic Alps, his recent collaboration with White Fence and Mikal Cronin (Moonhearts) and basically everything he's put out as Ty Segall/Ty Segall Band. Both of these recent releases come from In The RedRecords--a label we love and you can trust. It's certainly more prolific than the garage-punk label it started out as back in the early 90s. Recent releases from the Intelligence, Cheap Time and Timmy's Organism attest to that.
New releases from Sigur Ros (a 2xLP and a 10"), Animal Collective, Cat Power, Bukkake Boys, Passion Pit, Fiona Apple, Neon Piss, King Tuff, Fresh & Onlys, Dinosaur Jr., Puffy Areolas, Merchandise, Buttons Comp from Numero Group (the label who had the costanas to call out Record Store Day last year in an interview I probably posted, Royal Trux, Japandroids, Monoshock and more, along with recent locally bred bangers UTAH JAZZ, Water Torture, Hubris (CD only) and killer reissues from STEREOLAB, APHEX TWIN, LEE HALEWOOD, TALK TALK and the recently bootlegged and finally official reissue of primal texas punks DICKS (Kill From The Heart, These People & Peace? 7".
A new release, the first in 6 years or so, from Cat Power has been lauded in the music press as her best work since the Greatest LP (so we re-stocked it so you could decide). It's street date is 9-5, a rather popular release date for a bunch of new albums...though one of the higher anticipated releases, the XX "coexist" lp has been bumped to late September, so i thought to treat you to a new track from it. ANGELS .
As you probably know, Spiral Scratch Records will be turning 4 and we figured we'd treat you to a cool show that is way too big for our dungeon venue--so Clint welcomed it at his humble Funeral Home in Riverside--NOBUNNY, APACHE DROPOUT, BAD SPORTS supported by our own WHITE WHALE (gruff, but loveable and one of he best in town--the same can be said for...) and MALLWALKERS. We'll have a full-on distro marked way down along with Terminal-Boredom and Feral Kid distros...but make sure to check the bands merch tables first because you can come visit us anytime.
Lastly, for this overdue update, don't sleep on the massive amounts of killer used stuff ranging from original Buddy Holly lp's to first wave punk, 90's prog metal (every Opeth lp, o.g. pressings and other stuff of that ilk), recent indie, punk and lots of classic rock, deep cuts and prog. our jazz section is bigger than ever, too. So yes, things dipped for awhile, i blame the heat, but we're back on our feet and we're going to be more stocked than we have been in a long time. We have also been selling lots of great, vintage turntables, receivers and even used guitars and basses!
Though we're sure to miss our flip-flop wearing neighbor named Smook, we're pretty stoked to have a retro-everything (from candy to furniture) opening soon next door in the haunted house of crackheads! A bit of normalcy...if they only knew...but Bald Bill nor I have the heart to scare them off! We wish them the best.
Thats all for now, folks...you'll be hearing from us regularly once again and with guest contributions, too!
### anchovies 9-3-12 4:32 a.m.
Well...it's upon us once again...the quickly-becoming-a-national-holiday, RECORD STORE DAY. this is a day constructed to help pump some interest (and ca$h) into INDEPENDENT record stores (brought to you by the kind folks at ADA, warner brothers, wea, emi and more...heh).
By now you've seen the list. Just be aware that by this, the fifth RSD, there are PLENTY of amazing RSD exclusives that are not on the list, not approved by Record Store day, Inc--but possibly crucial to you as a music fan/collector. Some of these releases are as popular as the ones on the official list. Trouble In Mind will be releasing their annual 4-way split 7" single, for example. Revelation will be re-issuing some classic hardcore records (Farside "rigged" and others) and Matador will be offering exclusives from Sigur Ros, St. Vincent and Mclusky's amazing Do Dallas album--a british powerhouse of an album that any Jesus Lizard, early Touch and Go or Amphetamine Reptile fan outta check out--produced by Albini for extra kick. The band dissolved and members formed Futures of the Left after. I digress. What are we getting? Well...i don't really know everything we're getting (except what I've mentioned so far. Want to know more? There are releases from LCD Soundsystem (12"), Destroyer and more.
Wanna see the official list? its right here . This year we'll be getting more titles than ever...both from that list and those that don't appear on the list. No real list yet, but that will come.
Since we're opening at 10 a.m., there will be a coffee station. We will have some of Buffalo's best bands and songwriters in our dungeon. In between, as usual, we'll be slinging some cool records while you shop. We're real excited this year and hope to see you.
what are we getting? well...let's see. we are normally a top 40 free zone (and thats the way we like it) and that won't change on Record Store Day. anyway, here are some of the goods: Stax Singles Box Tomahawk 3 lp Box Lemuria 7" Luna (2 different reissued lp's) Uncle Tupelo (all 3) Nobunny 7" Sigur Ros 2x lp Mclusky "do dallas" lp (staff favorite!) Deatchcab For Cutie m. ward
Arcade Fire 12" Rainer Maria lp Snapcase "Progression Through Unlearning" lp Pussy Galore (first 7") farside Rigged lp Sensefield lp Poison Idea 'Pick Your King' lp Cursive Destroyer "Rubies" The Cure Devo "Live 1981" Tegan and Sara Trouble In Mind 4-way split (with Mikal Cronin) plenty more rsd, loads of unseen used stock and our biggest backstock ever!
Yeah, thats the new shirt--a limited run for the occasion. we also have totes and slipmats with the old design done by mark hatley. all printed, with pride, in the USA by our good pals at ArgyBargy Printing.
lastly, but most importantly...the scratch dungeon will host some of our favorite bands and songwriters. starting at 11-ish with bill "tracy morrow" nehill. Also performing is Tony Flaminio, Returners, Matt Smith & the Immediates, White Whale, Brown Sugar and more...
i gotta get some sleep so i'm nnot trampled tomorrow, folks. see ya at 10 am! we wont be late--promise!
the out of town concert/show calender. ahh, the shows that pass over our market...they are not to be overlooked. though some of these bands will, indeed, hit buffalo (the Spits, for example, will be playing Soundlab in February), here is the winter show listings for the surrounding areas (4 hours driving, maximum) for you to check out. a printed version is always tacked to the bulletin board in the shop. as always, compiled by Chief Consultant and heavy dude-- Chuck "Filthy Rich" Barrels: editor of terminal-boredom. com.
OUT OF TOWN SHOW CALENDAR
2/4 = THE SADIES @Horseshoe Tavern – Toronto, ON
2/6 = ICED EARTH w/SYMPHONY X @ThePhoenix – Toronto, ON
2/7 = THE KILLS w/JEFF THE BROTHERHOOD @ Kool Haus – Toronto, ON
2/10 = LADYHAWK w/JULIE DOIRON @ Parts & Labour – Toronto, ON
2/14 = ENGLISH DOGS w/THE CASUALTIES @ Opera House – Toronto, ON
2/14 = VERNOICA FALLS w/BRILLIANT COLORS @ The Garrison – Toronto
2/14 = DIE ANTWOORD @ The Phoenix – Toronto, ON
2/18 = THE QUEERS w/THE ATARIS @ Horseshoe Tavern – Toronto, ON
2/19 = THE QUEERS w/THE ATARIS @ Bugjar – Rochester, NY
2/21 = EVERY TIME I DIE w/TERROR @ Opera House – Toronto, ON
2/21 = SHARON VAN ETTEN @ Lee’s Palace – Toronto, ON
2/22 = DROPKICK MURPHYS @ Sound Academy – Toronto, ON
2/22 = HOAX w/SQRM @ Now That’s Class - CleveOH
2/23 = CROCODILES @ Lee’s Palace – Toronto, ON
2/23 = HOAX w/SQRM @ Siesta Nouveaux – Toronto, ON
2/24 = LES SEXAREENOS @ Horseshoe Tavern – Toronto, ON
2/25 = VILE INTENT w/GAS CHAMBER @ Siesta Nouveaux – Toronto, ON
2/25 = THE SPITS w/TV GHOST @ Silver Dollar – Toronto, ON
2/27 = JANE’S ADDICTION @ Massey Hall – Toronto, ON
3/2 = THE WALKMEN @ The Phoenix – Toronto, ON
3/3 = NOW THAT’S CLASS 5th ANNIVERSARY PARTY - CleveOH
3/6 = DEICIDE @ Opera House – Toronto, ON
3/8 = POLAR BEAR CLUB @ Bugjar – Rochester, NY
3/10 = YOUNG PRISMS @ Drake Hotel – Toronto, ON
3/14 = BLACK KEYS w/ARCTIC MONKEYS @ Air Canada Centre – Toronto, ON
3/14 = HOUNDS OF HATE @ Siesta Nouveaux – Toronto, ON
Mark Lanegan Band - Blues Funeral MarkLanegan's (Screaming Trees) first lp since '04 [Bubblegum] is no let down, or let up. Joined by the likes of Greg Dulli and Josh Homme, this anxiously awaited album does not disappoint.
Fucked Up - Year of the Tiger 12"
Mistreaters - 2xlp Those who recall the initial Rust Belt Revolts, they would recall Milwaukees blistering soul infected garage punk's, the Mistreaters. The Mistreaters called in quits a few years back and Kevin, the bassist started a label--the one who put out this double lp set of singles, non-lp-tracks, comp tracks and unreleased gems. Criminally unknown in the mainstream, anyone into wild garage rock would be doing themselves a disservice to not check out the defunct Mistreaters who also have albums on BigNeck, Estrus and now, Dusty Medical.
Horrid Red - Celestial Joy HORRID RED first appeared in 2010, emerging from the ongoing German / Cali Kraut-Punk institution that is TEENAGE PANZERKORPS (est. 2001). While that band is known for its violently propulsive sound, Horrid Red was established to explore the more elegant and arcane aspects of post-punk & pop.
Head On Electric - Sleep Slaughter Sheep - Already rumblings for album of the year, Milwaukee genre crossers dabble in catchy-garage punk, surfy-psych, dreamy numbers and beyond. Never underestimate the powers of Wisconsin.
Head On Electric - Sleep Slaughter Sheep - Already rumblings for album of the year, Milwaukee genre crossers dabble in catchy-garage punk, surfy-psych, dreamy numbers and beyond. Never underestimate the powers of Wisconsin.
OCS (Oh Sees) Songs About Death & Dying Vol. 3 (early material, reissued 3rd lp in a limited edition of 700 hand numbered copies. Silkscreen covers. Essential for fans of the band.
Poison Idea - Darby Crash Rides Again (2x lp set of early album plus earlier demos, outtakes 7 live. lots of great pictures inside the gatefold.)
OM - Live At Jerusalem (reduced price!)
IRON LUNG - Sexless/No Sex reissued.
Lost Sounds - 7" Their first 7" and some of their strongest tracks, ever. Originally on SolidSex LovieDoll labeland worth 3 figures. Now can be yours for 5 bucks. silkscreened covers, 4 songs.
restock action:
pixies-doolittle
the xx - xx
kurt vile-smoke rings for my halo
king khan & bbq show - s/t
t. rex- the slider, tanx
spits - I, II, V
beirut - the rip tide
thou - summit
used section explosion! crass, grateful dead, jacko, red fang (and lots of stoner), james brown, zeppelin, nebula, pink floyd, the datsuns and tons more. incoming rack packed and tons of leftovers from Clutter III flea market. Also, a load of used 7"/45's including over 20 beatles or beatles related 45's. dig,dig,dig.
So a few more lists came trickling in following the last post.
Pat Shanahan...a man who needs no introduction, but will get one anyway. Lead man of the soon-to-be defunct hardcore punk outfit Everything Falls Apart (bunch of records increasing in quality with each release) and tours...some overseas. Also 1/3 of White Whale, a post-punk juggernaut an arguably the best all around band operating in the Queen City at this time. In addition to this and that, Pat publishes SUBJECT zine and #2 just came out and is available at Spiral Scratch or wherever Pat is at that particular time. It's a quick, good read. Interviews with significant bands and released in a timely manner...welcome back print music zines and screw yer blog Anchovies!!! Pat Shanahan's Top 11 records of 2011
1. GG King - Esoteric Lore 2. Predator - S/T 3. Plates - S/T 4. Brain F - Sleep Rough 5. Puerto Rico Flowers - 7 6. Brown Sugar - Sings of Birds and Racism 7. Total Control - Henge Beat 8. Mind Spiders - S/T 9. Shitty Limits - Speculate/Accumulate 10. Marked Men - On/The Other Side 11. Video - Leather Leather ###
Brian Kedzierski. The brains behind on the long running Gold Soundz Radio Program on 91.3 fm WBNY in Buffalo...a staple of indie and beyond music that is never "mailed in" like the Sabres, who he loves so much. Always informative, always a cool listen. One of WBNY's longest running jocks/radio shows. Back in the days when radio was king, your stinky podcast hadnt been invented yet and the local show covered the significant bands of the local scene, Brian was a huge part of that (until some know-nothing clowns ran him out). One of three jocks who uses the turntables. Also, a really nice guy. anyway, here's his list:
I knew I probably acquiredthe smallest amount of new rock ever, last year. So I was beginning to think I would be unable to get to eleven, but I found a few.In no particular order:
The Joy Formidable- “The Big Roar” (Atlantic)
Not paying for my television can sound like an insurmountable bump to most people who love wires cramming things into their lives, but I found a gem.Cool TV, which I recently found is now available on cable, comes to me via WNYO’s only digital sub channel.It is all music videos, including live performances now included on DVD from bands from the black and white era to today.I was humming Black & Yellow before most people at the mall, and I also found this Welsh band.“Whirring” was the song I saw a few times, which I u-tubed the band and then saw them in Rochester this past September.
Thee Oh Sees “Castlemania”(In The Red)
By great recommendation from Anchovies, I listened to this band and saw them at the Bug Jar in 2010 (sadly missing them last time around.)Good to know the band didn’t break up, as I originally thought when reading inside this disc John Dwyer recorded all the songs himself (save for two vocals by Brigid Dawson.)
Low “You May Need A Murderer” DVD
This quiet, look into the lives of couple Alan Sparhawk and Mimi Parker’s lives at home in Duluth, with their two children, Mormon faith, and on tour.There are some unplugged snippets of Low songs as well.
Low “C’Mon” (Sub Pop)
Low’s ninth full length, and third for Sub Pop.A mix of their known slo-core style, along some recent bombast.Haunting and solid as ever.
The Raveonettes“Raven In The Grave” (Vice)
Danish duo of Sune Rose Wagner and Sharin Foo’s fifth full length recording.More of the Raveonettes style that has been heard since Lust Lust Lust:Something that can be performed by two people on stage rather than a full band, less of a stab at charting on Billboard.Lyrical material a bit darker on this one though.
Sloan “The Double Cross” (Yep Roc)
Halifax, Nova Scotia four-piece’s 10th full length in their 20 year history.The one band I have followed the longest. Most likely because they never gave up! I’m not wishing they would, although their 7th, Action Pact (a hefty stab by the band at breaking in the US), left me wanting something different.They came back hard with their 30 song Never Hear The End Of It, and now The Double Cross has them remembering some good pieces of past work without entirely re-recording past songs.
Men “Talk About Body” (Red/I Am Sound)
Some electronic dance music from Le Tigre member J.D. Samson and company.Some naughty lyrics effecting themes of sexual compromise and LGBT awareness.Slick sounding but would probably work way better with a few rickety synths and sweaty armpits in a living room.
Dum Dum Girls “He Gets Me High” (Sub Pop)
A four song e.p. follow up to their 2010 debut I Will Be. More of the same style from I Will Be along with a rousing rendition of The Smiths “There Is A Light That Never Goes Out.”
The Pixies have not released any new music, but have been on a Doolittle 20th anniversary tour for a couple years now.Watching them play the whole album plus b-sides in Rochester this past November was a treat.
And the final item, which is actually number one on the list, is getting engaged to my wonderful lady Jessica, this past spring.She has recently started helping out Anchovies with TheeScratch, which makes her all the more desirable!
###
Adam Mayes/ sales guy Cobraside Distro/West Side correspondent
1. William Shatner- Seeking Major Tom
2. Blood Orange- Coastal Grooves
3. Jeff the Brotherhood- We Are the Champions
4. J Mascis- Several Shades of Why
5. Tom Waits- Bad As Me
6. the Oh Sees- Carrion Crawler/the Dream
7. Black Lips- Arabia Mountain
8. Spits- Spits (5th)
9. Wooden Shjips- West
10. Boots Electric- Honkey Kong
###
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- So, let that be the final nail in 2011. A great year for music, indeed--and a bad year for you to stop paying attention. Some folks say they don't follow new music but when did any of us "follow along"? We've always had to dig for the jewels. Before the internet, it was strictly the zines and older generations passing down the knowledge. Get a catalog in the mail and read about some band called Husker Du. Now with the internet some think it's easier...but there's just more shit out there, more poorly written reviews and blogs and just too many bands. So maybe it's harder...but you still have us to help you along. Where'd that Moonhearts record go, anyway?
Overlooked from the initial "Lists Post", on purpose, was the onslaught of Buffalo bred releases of note from last year. here are a few 12" releases that made their way into Spiral Scratch (if they didnt, we probably didn't get to hear them) and were significant enough to be mentioned herein.
Like a Panther-Rockpile lp This band is an island and that makes for desperation, unique sounds. A true indie band with noisy tendencies that is finally getting some notice in various online music sites, Rockpile is the result of more than a few years of a band making a record for themselves. It's a good one at that and hopefully the world starts to notice, though we told you so the day they were brought in. Oh, Bret used to be in Mockba in case you're keeping score. His lady plays drums and has evolved, over time, into a force on the traps.
Brown Sugar - "Sings of Birds and Racism" shit, man...this record was enough to make me hang it up altogether. It's a benchmark kind of record that will be looked back at in years to come. This is hardcore punk the way i've always wanted it to be like around here, but is the exception...and always has been in Buffalo. By the time Brown Sugar made their debut longplayer, they had become more than just a hardcore band...the influences and whatnot had made their way into the songwriting. (For further evidence, seize a copy of the Tropical Disease 7" on Fashionable Idiots (in conjunction with Feral Kid Records) for further weirdness and more-than-by-the-numbers-hardcore. Unreal. A month-long tour shows they mean business. Now just keep it together to make some more records, doo's. This is not just a local band as they are revered nationwide.
Mark Norris & the Backpeddlers - Songs of Guilt & Revenge - Once upon a time, Mark Norris led the local juggernaut Girlpope--a band most noted for killer live sets, cover sets (Slade sticks out) and a key influence on a garage rock scene that would emerge in their wake. Unfortunately, Girlpope disbanded before their time and years later Norris would make, in my opinion, his best set of recorded songs in his musical career. Backed by some respectable hired guns (and facing tragic circumstances in his life) Songs of Guilt & Revenge transcends so much nationally hyped flavor of the month garbage and once again shows Buffalo how it is done. In my opinion, it's the best thing he's ever done-- Norris' finest hour (or however long it is). A key local release of '11.
the Fucking Hotlights - High Society Torture Party Controversial superstars? High Society Torture Partiers? Dirty rock and roll hep cats? You love 'em, you hate 'em--it doesn't matter because Buffalo does need a band (or three) like this. First off, and this is important, this is a great looking record--a fine detail often overlooked by bands laying out their best hand. It sounds good, too. Grimy rock and roll from the AmRep school of noisiness. The live show is certainly a site to behold, but the record puts the songs in a more enjoyable light (unless you've had 12 beers and want the hot-n-handsome Johnny Toohill rolling your ankles while the band calmly delivers the soundtrack to his mental breakdown. I suppose either way, you're getting your moneys worth.
Lieutenant - LP Buffalo Hardcore fans have waited a long time for the release of this bombastic explosion of pure hardcore. They even got together one night and played an overwhelming set to commemorate the occasion. Featuring members of Resist Control (Matto), Gas Chamber (Pat Bolger), Lemuria (Alex Kerns) and local hero/jack of all trades/now ex-pat Eric Ellman–calling this a supergroup would be unfair and corny, yet ultimately true as all of the members are currently in other actively successful bands and 3 out of the 4 run record labels, all of which had a hand in releasing this. Matto’s Peterwalkee label, Bolgers’ Warm Bath Label and Kerns’ Art of the Underground all have their stamp on this slab–limited to 300 copies (100 which are colored). I’d give this one about a month or so to sell out. A snapshot of Buffalo activity right now, though the band is most likely not functioning on a regular basis–this document will be an essential album regardless. Probably sold out at this point, but do yourself a service and keep up on the activities of the labels who released this (all locally based). Peterwalkee, WarmBathLabel and Art of the Underground. That is all for now as far as local bred LP's that passed through the shop in 2011. We are aware other great lp's came out, too. We'll get to those next post, along with the slew of amazing 7"'s and cassette tapes (Mallwalkers tape-only debut, Utah Jazz) and the hardworking labels that produced them.
One more thing not to be overlooked is Matt Smith's (HiLo Studio) digital only lp that he made, on his own, in his own studio. If there's justice in 2012, it will find a proper release and these songs will be heard live. Until then, they can be found at : HERE The name of the album is Immediate Concerns and features 8 killer tracks recorded on the eve of Christmas Eve, 2011. Hopefully physical copies and a backing band (featuring me!) are in the near future. meanwhile, Smith is part of Roger Bryan & the Orphans--who themselves released a critically acclaimed lp in '11 as well.
Rational Animals - Bock Rock Parade Technically not "local", these critters from Rochester have come a long way from the first time i saw them bashing on their instruments in a stinky basements to the weed(ing out)-rock punk they have evolved into, mining later-era Black Flag terrain though not aping it--putting their "upstate ny" stamp all over it. I guess you know what i'm getting at. Don't pass by their 7" singles, either...but this lp is a band growing up and dropping out. Too cool to overlook and we went out of our way to make sure these were in stock. Raised by Feral Kid and "matured" (probably use that term loosely) with their debut lp.
Thanks for reading. Here are some recent in-stocks:
Cheater Slicks - Our Food Is Chaos lp (early works with Alpo from real kids on bass!) Cheater Slicks - Guttural Live Florence & the Machine - Ceremonia Cut Copy - Zonoscope Electric Wizard - Black Masses GG King - Esoteric Lore the Saints - Eternally Yours James Blake Beach Boys - Smile Sessions lp (restock) Yuck s/t Foster the People - Torches Culo - Life Is Vile...and So Are We Intended Play: $1.98 lp featuring Matador?True panther Sounds artists and unreleased tracks from Fucked Up, Stephen Malkmus, Girls, Ceremony, Cold cave and more. 2 bucks!! Black Keys - El Camino Nothing People - Smells Like Metal Mark Lanagen Band - 7" with exclusive b-sides Guided By Voices - Let's Go Eat The Factory Howler - America Give Up Real Estate - s/t Total Control - Henge Beat (final copies, out of print until further notice)
tons of used stuff, restocks and more in-stocks expected early the week of january 23rd.
also new in store are some beautiful, framed silkscreens and posters of the likes of the Who, MGMT, Hendrix, Kiss, Roky Erickson and more. Large full size and smaller sizes...none over $20. we also have a ton of new buttons made locally by Bit Part Buttons.
Dig Buffalo's indie record shop. Why shop anywhere else? Why?! Oh, because you like wasting money? Well that's not smart. We always order direct and, at the moment, order exclusively from independent distributors. Oddly enough, it's cheaper that way and we don't deal with corporate vermin. And you pay less and that's really all that matters.
Curated by the dashing Aaron Weese, the man who unearthed the welcoming AMLADC™ as a music venue. Used mostly for larger shows due to it's proximity to the city and large space, although the upstairs has a small, stage-less, more intimate space where bands will also be performing giving you little time to grab a drink, go outside for a smoke--or a fantastic bite to eat at the mobile AMY'S PLACE FOOD TRUCK (it's not just for veggie heads, either!) in between. I've been stalking this truck and have been delighted on each occasion.
Gas Chamber plays it darker, and their latest 7" is a well put together package that perfectly exposes the bands leaning towards, dark, unpleasant realities. They are beyond a band at this point-they are a unit; a pack. They take what they do very seriously--as it should be, and the result may be too much for some to handle, but they wouldn't have it any other way. And that's a beautiful thing. Meanwhile, Mallwalkers boast a expanding horn section (but don't get the wrong idea), a second vocalist (Jamie from the crushing Human Touch who are also playing and have a new 7" on Feral Kid, too) alongside the braintrust of Handsome Dan Carosa and are in it for the fun, but have excelled as they have continued and evolved--especially the inventive guitar work of this soulful punk band that leans toward the fun, the dancing, the getting out of the malls and into the goddamn streets. Several vinyl and tape releases in and some great press last year, if they can keep the gang together, are poised for bigger things. 
Buffalo's Returners are among the best bands in town at the moment, a post-punk jugernaut that picks up elements of mark's record collection and, along with familiar bandmate Tony F. on bass (the prolific Dr. Stephen Floyd adding essential left guitar and Renee Roberts on drums) creating some of the best indie rock in the city, hands down. It wouldn't be pandering or a stretch to say they are among Buffalo's top bands and upcoming releases are highly anticipated. For now, the demo is what we have to work with.
Equal parts buffalo-rochester punk rock blasters Beardage bring it in your face, and keep it straight forward. Fronted by Kevin M.--a man who will certainly be brought up years from now (as he is already) as among Buffalo's wildest and best frontmen. But it ain't just antics here, it's adrenalin rush backed by Adam (fun rochester guy with the banter) and mild and wild Foster bringing the intense riffage. Great songs when so many many bands get the sound right and forget they need hooks to back it up. You'll also get music from yours truly, via Plates. And the eccentric rapper Jack Topht, who I've admired since his days playing 3 or 4 instruments at a time in Next Syphilis years ago. 
