Author: Shaun Smith

Fanfarlo shows evolution with ‘Let’s Go Extinct’

"Let's Go Extinct" by Fanfarlo was released Monday, Feb. 10 by the band's own New World Records in the United Kingdom.
“Let’s Go Extinct” by Fanfarlo.

Fanfarlo takes listeners on a musical and philosophical journey into the future with its third third full-length album, “Let’s Go Extinct.” The album is an adventurous leap in the time machine both back to 80s by incorporating synth melodies and into the future with progressive, futuristic themes by the London folk quartet.

Released Feb. 10 on the Fanfarlo’s own New World Records label in the United Kingdom and by The Orchard in the United States, the 10 tracks of “Let’s Go Extinct” were enjoyable and weird. I fell in love with the eclectic band after hearing the heavily trumpeted “The Walls Are Coming Down,” from its first album, “Reservoir” released in 2009. Although I didn’t find “Rooms Filled WIth Light” from 2012 until late last year, Fanfarlo has held a warm spot in my inner-ear.

“So Long, See You Tomorrow” is an enjoyable ride with Bombay Bicycle Club

The members of Bombay Bicycle Club with a poster announcing the release of "So Long, See You Tomorrow." (Courtesy of the artist.)
The members of Bombay Bicycle Club with a poster announcing the release of “So Long, See You Tomorrow.” (Courtesy of the artist.)

With the bitter chill of February rattling windows throughout the northeastern United States, there is a hopeful reprieve found in “So Long, See You Tomorrow,” the latest album by Bombay Bicycle Club.

Songs for the Christmas season [Spotify playlist]

The eve of Christmas is upon us and it’s time to start feeling jolly. Some of Santa’s elves need a little extra pep. So, step on it reindeer, we need to deck the halls for tomorrow. Whether you’re doing some last minute shopping, decorating, baking Christmas cookies or preparing a holiday feast; The High Note has picked its favorite tracks to help everyone get into the mood this holiday season.

Open this link or click on the Spotify playlist at the bottom of this post to take these tunes with you into the kitchen, car or party as we celebrate the season with the best holiday songs. 

Kendrick Lamar and Eddie Peake express cinematic vision on “Sing About Me” Part I

Courtesy of the artist's website - www.kendricklamar.com
Courtesy of the artist’s website – www.kendricklamar.com

Kendrick Lamar is a very deep rapper. The complex storytelling album that introduced him as a forward-thinking artist, “good kid, m.A.A.d. city,” has earned acclaim from music professionals and nominations for seven Grammy awards. Lamar is adding layers of artistic perfection to “Sing About Me, I’m Dying of Thirst,” one of my favorite tracks on the album.

Lamar has teamed up with artist Eddie Peake and director Darren Romannell for the gritty and cinematic “Sing About Me,” Part I; released Friday, Dec. 20 as the first of two installments. (Video after the jump.)

Phish rides “Wingsuit” into Boardwalk Hall

Trey Anastasio performs Oct. 31, 2013 at Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, NJ (photo credit: Shaun Smith)
Trey Anastasio performs Oct. 31, 2013 at Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, NJ (photo credit: Shaun Smith)

By SHAUN SMITH

ATLANTIC CITY – As they streamed out of Boardwalk Hall, concert-goers were high-fiving security and whooping it up into the night Saturday, Nov. 2 following the last night of a three-night stand. The historic convention center on the Boardwalk was submerged with strange sights and sounds as Phish closed out its fall 2013 tour beginning on Halloween.

“The ‘Jibboo’ last night was worth the price of admission,” one fan said leaving Saturday evening. The band last played “Gotta Jibboo,” 19 shows prior, on July 30, 2013 in Lake Tahoe, according to Phish.net.

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