FACS

Angular Chicago post punk band FACS have a new record coming our way in February.  That's excellent news on its own since they're a great band, but it's also notable as the last album the late, great Steve Albini recorded and engineered before his unexpected death earlier this year.  Pre-order "Wish Defense" here from Trouble In Mind, and listen to the punchy title track below.  RIP Steve.

Daily Jam - Bad Penny

It's still crazy to me that we lost Steve Albini earlier this year.  Here he is with Big Black and "Bad Penny," our Daily Jam.

RIP Steve Albini

I just saw on the wire that legendary, curmudgeonly musician, sound engineer, and underground rock icon Steve Albini has passed away at the age of 61.  This man was responsible for and had his hands in so much of the music that made me who i am over the last four decades that i wouldn't even know where to begin discussing it.  The loss is immeasurable.  He will be missed.  RIP Steve Albini.

The Cribs

The Cribs are one of those bands that i've seen the name of a thousand times over the last several years, popping up on music blogs, or playing festival sets, but for some reason or another just never caught my ear.  But, i guess when you record and album with Steve Albini, it's going to pique my interest.  The UK act's new album "24-7 Rock Star Shit" is out next week on Wichita Recordings, and it's got that rough Albini flavor.  Listen to "Year of Hate" below.

Joanna Newsom - Sapokanikan video

The woodland nymph otherwise known as Joanna Newsom has a new album, "Divers," out in October on Drag City.  And i probably know more people who will be annoyed by this news than excited.  While i will admit that Newsom's particular brand of folky, baroque pop is an acquired taste, it's one that i thoroughly enjoy.  Watch the Paul Thomas Anderson-directed video for "Sapokanikan" below and pre-order the Steve Albini-engineered album here.