ELEVENTH EDITION
Story by Kate Davies
Cuff the Duke “Side by Side”
First single off of Cuff the Duke’s latest album, Union, which is the second part of a two-part album release (first release was entitled Morning Comes). Many of the songs on Union act as a response to the songs from Morning Comes, the former showcasing a more positive and uplifting attitude than the latter. The very talented Basia Bulat guests on “Side by Side”, and the band are currently touring Canada through the fall in support of their latest album.
U.S. Girls “Jack”
Containing enough glitter to put Edward Cullen to shame, the video for “Jack” is a 70s-inspired ode to disco balls and muted lighting. The monochromatic vocals and dragging nature of the song combined with the over-the-top 70s styling create a setting akin to Napolean Dynamite on acid. Give this one a few listens – it gets more infectious with each play.
Invasions “666”
Invasions’ latest single packs a punch with its punk rock destructiveness. True to its rebellious tone, the video features a variety of masked characters, confetti, smashed guitars, and a good ‘ol Aisle 2 jam session. The song itself leaves something to be desired, but the band certainly succeeds in making a supermarket seem like a good place to party.
The Soft Moon “Die Life”
This San Francisco based post-punk band cites inspiration from such synth-punk groups as Chrome, Suicide, Danse Society, and The Units. One part anthemic and one part 80s techno-groove, “Die Life” was made to be featured in some Matrix-like epic battle scene. The band’s newest album, Zeros, will be released October 30th through Captured Tracks. They will be hitting Toronto September 22 at The Drake.
Fang Island “Sisterly”
With a guitar riff that begs to be at the forefront of a high-profile soft drink commercial, Fang Island’s latest video dials itself back to the 1960s. Composed of a band set-up that looks like it popped out of an early Rolling Stones recording, the video ends up losing much of this initial charm through an odd sequence featuring stuffed animals that begin to be fired at the group on stage. Although it loses much of its fervour, the best part of the video comes during the last scene – reason enough to watch until the end.
Animal Collective “Today’s Supernatural”
Always inventive and experimental, this New York based band has by far the best video and song of the week. With lead singer Avey Tare dressed as a clown and featuring puppets that look like they’re straight out of Where the Wild Things Are, the song has an 8-bit driving quality that propels the listener along an adventurous joyride. New album Centipede Hz hits record stores September 4.
