Tag Archives: devo

Don’t Have a Blue Christmas

For many, the holiday season can be a depressing time. Despite all the talk of good cheer, the mirth and merriment can conceal an underbelly of loneliness and dejection. It’s no coincidence that, every December, depression levels skyrocket.

The cause of all the melancholy is simple — it’s the endless stream of bad music on the radio. How many obnoxious Christmas carols and wailing Trans-Siberian Orchestra guitar solos can any person endure before doing damage to their mental health? Luckily, the Casbah has put together a delightfully oddball show that’s guaranteed to permanently wipe the lyrics to “Jingle Bells” from your memory. Continue reading…

Watchlist vol. 8: Cloud Nothings (MP3s)

MP3: Cloud Nothings – “Hey Cool Kid”
MP3: Cloud Nothings – “Can’t Stay Awake”

In recent years, Ohio has found itself on the receiving end of many jokes. Yet despite some unfortunate sports teams and economic problems, the Buckeye State remains fertile ground for great music.

In particular, the Akron, Ohio scene has produced legendary punk bands like The Cramps, Dead Boys, and Devo. More recently, The Black Keys exploded onto the national scene with their intoxicating mix of garage rock and blues. And, if it wasn’t for Oberlin College, the world may never have heard of Yeah Yeah Yeahs — singer Karen O and drummer Brian Chase met while attending the school and were both inspired by Ohio’s legendary 80s and 90s-era punk scene. Continue reading…

The Soft Pack Make a Name for Themselves

It wouldn’t be summer in San Diego without the Del Mar Summer Concert Series. Every year, the renowned Del Mar Thoroughbred Club sets its sights on music lovers, lining up local and national bands for a summer-long, weekly series of concert events. Past years have featured memorable performances by bands like Violent Femmes and Devo, and this year’s run is already off to a fine start, thanks to an exciting set by local favorites Pinback.

Now, another San Diego group is set to blow the crowd away. On Friday, August 13, local buzz band The Soft Pack will wow fans and degenerate gamblers alike with their fast and furious punk rock. Continue reading…

Poetic Memory: Mammoth Life (List)

New bands can take a while to warm up to, but the art pop of Mammoth Life is instantly endearing. Resting somewhere between pop and folk, the Lawrence, Kansas band’s bouncy sound is sugary yet rugged, equally suited for dancing or riding a horse.

In addition to their musical prowess, Mammoth Life have an eye for style. They’ve got their own clothing line — aptly named Mammoth Life Apparel — and they recently released a seven-inch called Enlightenment: A Romantic Gospel on fancy, transparent blue vinyl. The gorgeous record is individually numbered to 250 copies.

You can snatch up a copy on Friday, June 2nd, when the band brings its catchy melodies and Midwestern charm to the Soda Bar. The Hot Moon and Flying Objects will be joining them, so don’t miss it.

Band leader/box guitarist/producer Nicholas Goss was kind enough to share his Poetic Memory with us, which you can find below. Continue reading…