Building on the critical success of 2007’s “Boxer,” Brooklyn-based the National toss down the gauntlet for rock album greatness with their new disc, “High Violet.” In a time when iTunes singles are the new normal, here’s a body of indie-rock anthems that while thoroughly modern, invite a return to the best of the album era. Continue reading
Following up their strongest disc in years, the psychedelic-rock space cadets in the Apples in Stereo have completed a record that attempts to blend a secret ’70s dance-floor obsession into their mission of creating the perfect pop album. The new disc, “Travellers In Space And Time,” narrowly misses the mark. Continue reading
When the definitive star-making moment came for Black Rebel Motorcycle Club in 2001, the group’s big chance slipped away. No matter. During Wednesday night’s concert in Madison, Wis., the band emphasized that they’re going to continue to persevere and do the hazy, distorted music even if they never make it big. Continue reading
California freak-folk ambassadors Vetiver might be one of underground rock’s best kept secrets, but the quintet’s concert on Tuesday night proved this shouldn’t be the case for much longer. Continue reading
With the release of their terrific last record in 2008, it was uncertain if Philadelphia retro-rockers Dr. Dog were really a stupefying, sometimes exhilarating mishmash of ’60s tribute bands who had unexpectedly struck gold or if they were something more. The band is now road testing a batch of new material in a short preview tour of North America and the new tunes only deepen the mystery. Continue reading
Two years after knocking the pop world on its ear with a jaw-dropping debut, Vampire Weekend has returned with a new record that likewise seeks to find a fusion between power-pop and African and Caribbean musical styles. The only problem: the band forgot to include the pop. Continue reading
Looking to cash in your iTunes gift card from the holidays? Soundbytes’ David Hyland has recommendations where to spend it. Continue reading
Ten years after he reconvened his E Street Band, Bruce Springsteen now seems ready to indulge in a little nostalgia as he salutes the high points and long-overlooked gems of his discography during a concert Sunday night in Milwaukee. Continue reading
Boasting members with rock-star resumes impressive enough to pique any fans’ curiosity, Them Crooked Vultures and their debut album ultimately fulfill the supergroup moniker — albeit largely for the wrong reasons. Continue reading
Eclipsed by Nirvana’s ascendency to superstardom, alternative-rock pioneers Dinosaur Jr. saw little return despite their years of wowing the underground. On Tuesday night’s concert in Madison, Wis., the newly reunited band used high volume and their cache of bludgeoning riffs to conquer the audience. Continue reading
Soundbytes Music Column 