The Decemberists have announced a new double album, As It Ever Was, So It Will Be Again, due out June 14th on the band’s label Yabb Records via Thirsty Tigers. To accompany the announcement, the band has also shared the 19-minute album closer “Joan in the Garden.”
As It Ever Was, So It Will Be Again, the folk-rock act’s ninth album, marks the band’s return after a six-year hiatus. Teased by the recent single “Burial Ground” and split into four thematic sides, the double-lp also notably boasts guest appearances from The Shins’ James Mercer and Rem’s Mike Mill.
Get The Decemberists Tickets Here
Contrasting the relative brevity and accessibility of “Burial Ground,” which serves as the album’s opener, “Joan in the Garden” arrives as an extended, multi-part epic. The song’s subject matter is fittingly grand, as the origins of the song derive from the story of Joan of Arc.
As It Ever Was, So It Will Be Again, the folk-rock act’s ninth album, marks the band’s return after a six-year hiatus. Teased by the recent single “Burial Ground” and split into four thematic sides, the double-lp also notably boasts guest appearances from The Shins’ James Mercer and Rem’s Mike Mill.
Get The Decemberists Tickets Here
Contrasting the relative brevity and accessibility of “Burial Ground,” which serves as the album’s opener, “Joan in the Garden” arrives as an extended, multi-part epic. The song’s subject matter is fittingly grand, as the origins of the song derive from the story of Joan of Arc.
- 3/19/2024
- by Jonah Krueger
- Consequence - Music
The Decemberists have a new album on the way — and they’re dropping 19 minutes of it.
On Tuesday, the group released the 19-minute prog rock track “Joan in the Garden” as they announced the upcoming release of their ninth album, As It Ever Was, So It Will Be Again, on June 14. The project will be their first full-length LP since 2018’s I’ll Be Your Girl.
“‘Joan in the Garden’ has been kicking around as an idea since the ‘I’ll Be Your Girl’ sessions,” said Colin Meloy in a...
On Tuesday, the group released the 19-minute prog rock track “Joan in the Garden” as they announced the upcoming release of their ninth album, As It Ever Was, So It Will Be Again, on June 14. The project will be their first full-length LP since 2018’s I’ll Be Your Girl.
“‘Joan in the Garden’ has been kicking around as an idea since the ‘I’ll Be Your Girl’ sessions,” said Colin Meloy in a...
- 3/19/2024
- by Tomás Mier
- Rollingstone.com
The Decemberists have announced a 2024 North American tour and released first new song in six years, “Burial Ground” featuring James Mercer of The Shins.
Kicking off on April 30th in Kingston, New York, The Decemberists’ 2024 tour will unfold over two different legs — one in the spring and one in the summer — taking the band to cities like Boston, Philadelphia, Chicago, Los Angeles, and more, with support by Ratboys. The tour will wrap with a final performance outside the band’s hometown, Portland, Oregon, on August 3rd. Check out the full list of dates below.
An artist ticket pre-sale for tickets to the tour will open on Wednesday, February 7th at 10:00 a.m. local time (sign up for a code here). A general on-sale for the tickets will follow via Ticketmaster on Friday, February 9th at 10:00 a.m. local time. Once tickets are on sale, fans can look for...
Kicking off on April 30th in Kingston, New York, The Decemberists’ 2024 tour will unfold over two different legs — one in the spring and one in the summer — taking the band to cities like Boston, Philadelphia, Chicago, Los Angeles, and more, with support by Ratboys. The tour will wrap with a final performance outside the band’s hometown, Portland, Oregon, on August 3rd. Check out the full list of dates below.
An artist ticket pre-sale for tickets to the tour will open on Wednesday, February 7th at 10:00 a.m. local time (sign up for a code here). A general on-sale for the tickets will follow via Ticketmaster on Friday, February 9th at 10:00 a.m. local time. Once tickets are on sale, fans can look for...
- 2/6/2024
- by Jo Vito
- Consequence - Music
Purchasing a home is in itself something to celebrate, but James Mercer had an extra reason to pop the champagne when he discovered the house he bought in Portland had, incidentally, once belonged to one of his musical heroes, Elliott Smith.
Mercer was chatting about the making of The Shins 2003 album Chutes Too Narrow for an episode of the Life of the Record podcast. On the song “Saint Simon,” Mercer sings, “Nothing holds a Roman candle to the solemn warmth you feel inside,” an Easter egg reference to Smith’s 1994 debut Roman Candle.
“I ended up buying the house that [Smith] lived in when he recorded Roman Candle and those things — just randomly,” Mercer said on the podcast. “It was kind of a music house, but I didn’t know. My drummer, Jon Sortland, he had actually lived there as well.”
The house in question was, apparently, well-known among Smith and...
Mercer was chatting about the making of The Shins 2003 album Chutes Too Narrow for an episode of the Life of the Record podcast. On the song “Saint Simon,” Mercer sings, “Nothing holds a Roman candle to the solemn warmth you feel inside,” an Easter egg reference to Smith’s 1994 debut Roman Candle.
“I ended up buying the house that [Smith] lived in when he recorded Roman Candle and those things — just randomly,” Mercer said on the podcast. “It was kind of a music house, but I didn’t know. My drummer, Jon Sortland, he had actually lived there as well.”
The house in question was, apparently, well-known among Smith and...
- 12/4/2023
- by Abby Jones
- Consequence - Music
James Mercer has confirmed that he’s working on a fresh batch of songs which may become The Shins’ first new album since 2017’s Heartworms.
The confirmation came in an interview on a new episode of The Story Behind the Song, in which Mercer revealed that at least 17 songs are in the works for his next project.
“September, I’m going to buckle down,” Mercer told host Peter Csathy. “I’ve got a bunch of songs. I think it was 17 songs that are partially-recorded already. So, I’m always working on something. I’m always fiddling with the guitar and searching for those moments, you know? So, I’ve got a bunch of stuff. And I don’t know how long it’ll take, but I’ll start in September, and I’ll do another Shins record.”
The new record would be the sixth studio album from The Shins, and...
The confirmation came in an interview on a new episode of The Story Behind the Song, in which Mercer revealed that at least 17 songs are in the works for his next project.
“September, I’m going to buckle down,” Mercer told host Peter Csathy. “I’ve got a bunch of songs. I think it was 17 songs that are partially-recorded already. So, I’m always working on something. I’m always fiddling with the guitar and searching for those moments, you know? So, I’ve got a bunch of stuff. And I don’t know how long it’ll take, but I’ll start in September, and I’ll do another Shins record.”
The new record would be the sixth studio album from The Shins, and...
- 10/16/2023
- by Jo Vito
- Consequence - Music
Almost 20 years after recording the follow-up to their beloved 2003 album Ghetto Pop Life, Danger Mouse and Jemini have shared their long-shelved Born Again.
Originally released on September 9th, 2003, Ghetto Pop Life marked Danger Mouse’s first official album released on a record label. He went on to work with the likes of Mf Doom, CeeLo Green, The Shins’ James Mercer, and Yeah Yeah Yeahs’ Karen O, but before that, he and Brooklyn rapper Jemini recorded Born Again.
A press release describes the unreleased record as more introspective than the duo’s braggadocios debut, but lead single “Brooklyn Basquiat” still has Ghetto Pop Life’s scrappy quality. “I made a few records but I’m still struggling,” Jemini admits, though moments later, he spits, “The issue that I’m trying to address in this song/ Is how a n**** stay fresh this long.” Complete with a flute melody and an interpolation of The Notorious B.
Originally released on September 9th, 2003, Ghetto Pop Life marked Danger Mouse’s first official album released on a record label. He went on to work with the likes of Mf Doom, CeeLo Green, The Shins’ James Mercer, and Yeah Yeah Yeahs’ Karen O, but before that, he and Brooklyn rapper Jemini recorded Born Again.
A press release describes the unreleased record as more introspective than the duo’s braggadocios debut, but lead single “Brooklyn Basquiat” still has Ghetto Pop Life’s scrappy quality. “I made a few records but I’m still struggling,” Jemini admits, though moments later, he spits, “The issue that I’m trying to address in this song/ Is how a n**** stay fresh this long.” Complete with a flute melody and an interpolation of The Notorious B.
- 8/25/2023
- by Carys Anderson
- Consequence - Music
The Shins’ sophomore album Chutes Too Narrow is turning 20 this year, and Sub Pop is celebrating the occasion with a new anniversary edition of the record. The reissue is out October 20th, 2023.
After the runaway success of their debut Oh, Inverted World, Chutes Too Narrow proved The Shins were here to stay. It was recorded in frontman James Mercer’s basement home studio and finished with a little mixing help from Phil Ek; its remaster was handled by Adam Ayan, though Mercer kept a close eye on the process.
“I was very aware at the time that I had struck gold with the first record, and it was unlikely to happen again,” Mercer recalls in a press release. “’Sophomore slump’ and all that. The pressure to prove myself as a viable writer had never been so pronounced. Midway through the mixing process, I realized one of the songs would not work,...
After the runaway success of their debut Oh, Inverted World, Chutes Too Narrow proved The Shins were here to stay. It was recorded in frontman James Mercer’s basement home studio and finished with a little mixing help from Phil Ek; its remaster was handled by Adam Ayan, though Mercer kept a close eye on the process.
“I was very aware at the time that I had struck gold with the first record, and it was unlikely to happen again,” Mercer recalls in a press release. “’Sophomore slump’ and all that. The pressure to prove myself as a viable writer had never been so pronounced. Midway through the mixing process, I realized one of the songs would not work,...
- 8/22/2023
- by Abby Jones
- Consequence - Music
Indie rock fans are in mourning.
On Thursday, The Shins frontman James Mercer announced the sad news that former band member Neal Langford has died. He was 50-years-old.
Read More: Sinéad O’Connor, Iconic Irish Singer, Dies At Age 56
“Just want to let you guys know one of the best friends I’ve ever had has passed,” Mercer wrote.
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by The Shins (@theshins)
Calling Langford a “very important figure in my life,” Mercer wrote, “this is the guy who talked me into getting over my shyness and up on the stage. He put me in front of the microphone!”
Mercer continued, “He was the catholic school kid who showed me how to sneak into the back of the old El Rey theatre and get a ‘free; beer. An invaluable person! Who turned me onto Dinosaur Jr. and Interview Magazine and the Cocteau Twins...
On Thursday, The Shins frontman James Mercer announced the sad news that former band member Neal Langford has died. He was 50-years-old.
Read More: Sinéad O’Connor, Iconic Irish Singer, Dies At Age 56
“Just want to let you guys know one of the best friends I’ve ever had has passed,” Mercer wrote.
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by The Shins (@theshins)
Calling Langford a “very important figure in my life,” Mercer wrote, “this is the guy who talked me into getting over my shyness and up on the stage. He put me in front of the microphone!”
Mercer continued, “He was the catholic school kid who showed me how to sneak into the back of the old El Rey theatre and get a ‘free; beer. An invaluable person! Who turned me onto Dinosaur Jr. and Interview Magazine and the Cocteau Twins...
- 7/28/2023
- by Corey Atad
- ET Canada
Neal Langford, former bassist for the Shins who played on their indie group’s celebrated debut album Oh, Inverted World, has died. He was 50.
Langford was found dead last Friday, July 21, in a creek near a private dock in Bath, North Carolina, where he lived. At the time, the Beaufort County Sheriff’s office said it did not suspect foul play, but an investigation was ongoing. A rep for the sheriff’s office did not immediately return Rolling Stone’s request for an update.
News of Langford’s death only...
Langford was found dead last Friday, July 21, in a creek near a private dock in Bath, North Carolina, where he lived. At the time, the Beaufort County Sheriff’s office said it did not suspect foul play, but an investigation was ongoing. A rep for the sheriff’s office did not immediately return Rolling Stone’s request for an update.
News of Langford’s death only...
- 7/28/2023
- by Jon Blistein
- Rollingstone.com
Neal Langford, former bassist of The Shins, has died at the age of 50.
According to a report from local NBC affiliate Witn-tv, Langford was found dead near a private dock in Bath, North Carolina on July 21st. His cause of death wasn’t immediately known, but Beaufort County deputies said they did not suspect foul play.
The Shins mastermind James Mercer paid tribute to Langford on Thursday, July 27th with an Instagram post. “Just want to let you guys know one of the best friends I’ve ever had has passed,” he wrote. “He was in several bands with me including the Shins. A very important figure in my life you could say. I mean this is the guy who talked me into getting over my shyness and up on the stage. He put me in front of the microphone!”
Mercer continued by praising Langford for putting him on to Dinosaur Jr.,...
According to a report from local NBC affiliate Witn-tv, Langford was found dead near a private dock in Bath, North Carolina on July 21st. His cause of death wasn’t immediately known, but Beaufort County deputies said they did not suspect foul play.
The Shins mastermind James Mercer paid tribute to Langford on Thursday, July 27th with an Instagram post. “Just want to let you guys know one of the best friends I’ve ever had has passed,” he wrote. “He was in several bands with me including the Shins. A very important figure in my life you could say. I mean this is the guy who talked me into getting over my shyness and up on the stage. He put me in front of the microphone!”
Mercer continued by praising Langford for putting him on to Dinosaur Jr.,...
- 7/28/2023
- by Eddie Fu
- Consequence - Music
Greenwich Entertainment has announced that The Elephant 6 Recording Co., the 2019 documentary about the Elephant 6 Recording Company, will be re-released in theaters on August 25th. Directed by C.B. Stockfleth, the film follows the story of the beloved music collective that spawned Neutral Milk Hotel, The Olivia Tremor Control, The Apples in Stereo, of Montreal and more. Watch the trailer below.
Originally, The Elephant 6 Recording Co. was released in 2019 on VHS only. Last year, an updated version of the film premiered at the Doc NYC festival, and became available for streaming with purchase of a virtual screening ticket. Now, distributed by Greenwich Entertainment, the film will enjoy a wider reach.
“The film is designed to capture an era and a movement and to honor the spirit of this circle of small-town artist friends,” Stockfleth said in a statement. “Their art was made better because they did things collectively, and gave each and...
Originally, The Elephant 6 Recording Co. was released in 2019 on VHS only. Last year, an updated version of the film premiered at the Doc NYC festival, and became available for streaming with purchase of a virtual screening ticket. Now, distributed by Greenwich Entertainment, the film will enjoy a wider reach.
“The film is designed to capture an era and a movement and to honor the spirit of this circle of small-town artist friends,” Stockfleth said in a statement. “Their art was made better because they did things collectively, and gave each and...
- 6/27/2023
- by Jo Vito
- Consequence - Music
Greenwich Entertainment has announced that The Elephant 6 Recording Co., the 2019 documentary about the Elephant 6 Recording Company, will be re-released in theaters on August 25th. Directed by C.B. Stockfleth, the film follows the story of the beloved music collective that spawned Neutral Milk Hotel, The Olivia Tremor Control, The Apples in Stereo, of Montreal and more. Watch the trailer below.
Originally, The Elephant 6 Recording Co. was released in 2019 on VHS only. Last year, an updated version of the film premiered at the Doc NYC festival, and became available for streaming with purchase of a virtual screening ticket. Now, distributed by Greenwich Entertainment, the film will enjoy a wider reach.
“The film is designed to capture an era and a movement and to honor the spirit of this circle of small-town artist friends,” Stockfleth said in a statement. “Their art was made better because they did things collectively, and gave each and...
Originally, The Elephant 6 Recording Co. was released in 2019 on VHS only. Last year, an updated version of the film premiered at the Doc NYC festival, and became available for streaming with purchase of a virtual screening ticket. Now, distributed by Greenwich Entertainment, the film will enjoy a wider reach.
“The film is designed to capture an era and a movement and to honor the spirit of this circle of small-town artist friends,” Stockfleth said in a statement. “Their art was made better because they did things collectively, and gave each and...
- 6/27/2023
- by Jo Vito
- Consequence - Film News
Following last year’s Meet Me in the Bathroom, another documentary capturing a vital moment for indie rock is arriving this summer. The Elephant 6 Recording Co. explores the ’90s rock collective that launched Neutral Milk Hotel, The Olivia Tremor Control, The Apples in Stereo, Elf Power, Of Montreal, and more. Ahead of an August 25th theatrical release and September 1 digital release by Greenwich Entertainment, the first trailer has now arrived.
Directed by C.B. Stockfleth and produced by Lance Bangs, the documentary features never-before-seen footage of the bands shot by Bangs, as well as interviews with Elephant 6 members––Robert Schneider, Bill Doss, Will Cullen Hart and many more––and notable fans including Elijah Wood, David Cross, Danger Mouse, and James Mercer.
Here’s the synopsis: “Around 1985, a group of Ruston, LA area high schoolers began experimenting with whatever random instruments and gear they could lay their hands on. Fanning out across...
Directed by C.B. Stockfleth and produced by Lance Bangs, the documentary features never-before-seen footage of the bands shot by Bangs, as well as interviews with Elephant 6 members––Robert Schneider, Bill Doss, Will Cullen Hart and many more––and notable fans including Elijah Wood, David Cross, Danger Mouse, and James Mercer.
Here’s the synopsis: “Around 1985, a group of Ruston, LA area high schoolers began experimenting with whatever random instruments and gear they could lay their hands on. Fanning out across...
- 6/27/2023
- by Jordan Raup
- The Film Stage
Azealia Banks has sent Taylor Swift a warning about her new boyfriend, Matt Healy. Banks implored Swift to break up with Healy due to the controversy surrounding him.
Healy, an English singer, recently faced backlash due to a podcast where the two other hosts, Adam Friedland and Nick Mullen, made some sexist and racist comments about Ice Spice, and Healy laughed along. They mimicked Hawaiian and Chinese accents and called Ice Spice offensive names. When Healy was asked about it he defended the podcast and the comments that were made. Later, Healy did apologize to Ice Spice while he was performing in New Zealand.
In Memoriam 2022: 100 Great Celebrities Who Died In 2022
After this podcast aired, Banks went on Instagram to warn Swift, saying, “Taylor, this guy is gonna give you scabies. He’s not on the level of powerful p–— u worked Hella Hard to build. Ugh, so many...
Healy, an English singer, recently faced backlash due to a podcast where the two other hosts, Adam Friedland and Nick Mullen, made some sexist and racist comments about Ice Spice, and Healy laughed along. They mimicked Hawaiian and Chinese accents and called Ice Spice offensive names. When Healy was asked about it he defended the podcast and the comments that were made. Later, Healy did apologize to Ice Spice while he was performing in New Zealand.
In Memoriam 2022: 100 Great Celebrities Who Died In 2022
After this podcast aired, Banks went on Instagram to warn Swift, saying, “Taylor, this guy is gonna give you scabies. He’s not on the level of powerful p–— u worked Hella Hard to build. Ugh, so many...
- 5/31/2023
- by Nina Hauswirth
- Uinterview
Black Thought and Danger Mouse have enlisted two other hip-hop heavyweights, Aap Rocky and Run the Jewels for their new song, “Strangers.” The track will appear on Black Thought and Danger Mouse’s upcoming collaborative album, Cheat Codes, out this Friday, Aug. 12 via BMG.
With a Danger Mouse beat packed with dusty, clattering drums and the relentless thrumming of some uncanny synth or sample, “Strangers” boasts the perfect raw palette for Black Thought, Rocky, and Run the Jewels’ El-p and Killer Mike. In a statement, Run the Jewels said, “We...
With a Danger Mouse beat packed with dusty, clattering drums and the relentless thrumming of some uncanny synth or sample, “Strangers” boasts the perfect raw palette for Black Thought, Rocky, and Run the Jewels’ El-p and Killer Mike. In a statement, Run the Jewels said, “We...
- 8/9/2022
- by Jon Blistein
- Rollingstone.com
Broken Bells — the duo of Brian Burton (a.k.a. Danger Mouse) and Shins frontman James Mercer — are back with a new song, “We’re Not in Orbit Yet…” The track will appear on the duo’s upcoming album, Into the Blue.
“We’re Not in Orbit Yet…” finds Broken Bells blending some folky, acoustic undertones with an array of spaced-out synths, creating a vibe that feels at once retro and futuristic. The song’s music video — directed by Johnny Chrew — matches that sonic vibe with grainy footage of Broken Bells...
“We’re Not in Orbit Yet…” finds Broken Bells blending some folky, acoustic undertones with an array of spaced-out synths, creating a vibe that feels at once retro and futuristic. The song’s music video — directed by Johnny Chrew — matches that sonic vibe with grainy footage of Broken Bells...
- 6/29/2022
- by Jon Blistein
- Rollingstone.com
The Shins have released two new songs, “Waimanalo” and “Trapped by the Sea,” in honor of late bandmate Richard Swift, who died last year.
The tracks are part of a seven-inch vinyl series — Fug Yep Soundation — created for Swift. They mark the Shins’ first new music since their 2017 album Heartworms.
Both tracks were written and produced by Shins frontman James Mercer. The proceeds from sales of Fug Yep will support the Swift family, as well as MusiCares and Music Support UK. The goal of the series is to “raise awareness...
The tracks are part of a seven-inch vinyl series — Fug Yep Soundation — created for Swift. They mark the Shins’ first new music since their 2017 album Heartworms.
Both tracks were written and produced by Shins frontman James Mercer. The proceeds from sales of Fug Yep will support the Swift family, as well as MusiCares and Music Support UK. The goal of the series is to “raise awareness...
- 11/8/2019
- by Emily Zemler
- Rollingstone.com
Richard Swift, a producer, singer and multi-instrumentalist who played with groups including the Black Keys and the Shins, died today. He was 41.
The Black Keys’ Dan Auerbach confirmed the news on social media:
A California native born on March 16, 1977, Swift made a handful of solo records in the 2000s and produced albums for such acts as Gardens & Villa, Sylvie Lewis, Damien Jurado and later Guster.
He went on to play keyboards and percussion from 2011-16 with the Shins, James Mercer’s group whose beautifully infectious “New Slang” had been featured in Zach Braff’s Garden State, and was the bassist and sang backup on the Black Keys’ 2014-15 arena tour. He also drummed with Auerbach’s other band the Arcs.
Swift, who also was a short-film maker, had his music featured in films including 2013’s Drinking Buddies and such TV shows as HBO’s Eastbound & Down and Tim and...
The Black Keys’ Dan Auerbach confirmed the news on social media:
A California native born on March 16, 1977, Swift made a handful of solo records in the 2000s and produced albums for such acts as Gardens & Villa, Sylvie Lewis, Damien Jurado and later Guster.
He went on to play keyboards and percussion from 2011-16 with the Shins, James Mercer’s group whose beautifully infectious “New Slang” had been featured in Zach Braff’s Garden State, and was the bassist and sang backup on the Black Keys’ 2014-15 arena tour. He also drummed with Auerbach’s other band the Arcs.
Swift, who also was a short-film maker, had his music featured in films including 2013’s Drinking Buddies and such TV shows as HBO’s Eastbound & Down and Tim and...
- 7/3/2018
- by Erik Pedersen
- Deadline Film + TV
The Shins’ fifth studio album, Heartworms, is a celebration of front man James Mercer and his defining sound. Mercer is the only remaining member of the original formation of the band and on Heartworms, he makes the case that he was always the only member that mattered. ‘Heartworms’ By The Shins Album Review Self-produced, the […]
Source: uInterview
The post ‘Heartworms’ By The Shins Album Review: James Mercer Takes Control appeared first on uInterview.
Source: uInterview
The post ‘Heartworms’ By The Shins Album Review: James Mercer Takes Control appeared first on uInterview.
- 3/30/2017
- by Jacob Kaye
- Uinterview
Wish I Was Here, Boyhood and Guardians Of The Galaxy take a mixtape approach to their soundtracks. Ivan looks at what makes them so great...
"You gotta hear this one song. It'll change your life, I swear," a girl (Sam) in a doctor's waiting room once said to a boy (Andrew) who looked a lot like Zach Braff. Then, she placed a pair of headphones over his ears and played him The Shins.
Garden State's soundtrack became a must-have for all fans in 2004 thanks to its effective use - and curation - of indie artists, acoustic ditties and mild electronica. It was an album that showed a jukebox soundtrack (traditionally the territory of Tarantino) could do something different, whether that was introducing people to obscure bands they hadn't heard of or connecting you with others who also liked the movie's music.
10 years later, filmmakers are still chasing the same thing: the ultimate mixtape.
"You gotta hear this one song. It'll change your life, I swear," a girl (Sam) in a doctor's waiting room once said to a boy (Andrew) who looked a lot like Zach Braff. Then, she placed a pair of headphones over his ears and played him The Shins.
Garden State's soundtrack became a must-have for all fans in 2004 thanks to its effective use - and curation - of indie artists, acoustic ditties and mild electronica. It was an album that showed a jukebox soundtrack (traditionally the territory of Tarantino) could do something different, whether that was introducing people to obscure bands they hadn't heard of or connecting you with others who also liked the movie's music.
10 years later, filmmakers are still chasing the same thing: the ultimate mixtape.
- 9/19/2014
- by ryanlambie
- Den of Geek
The Shins have a great tune "So Says I," but now it's time for a hazy "So Now What." The indie rockers -- who have been curbed more recently as James Mercer has pursued other musics with Danger Mouse in their project Broken Bells -- contributed the new tune to Zach Braff's "Wish I Were Here" film, which went the crowd-funding route last year. As you'll remember, Natalie Portman famously put headphones on Braff's head to the tune of The Shins "New Slang" in the former "Scrubs" star's directorial debut "Garden State" (2004). "It'll change your life, I swear," her character Sam says. Well, it certainly did change the band life of The Shins. So the circle of life continues. "Wish I Was Here" also has new songs from the likes of Bon Iver, Coldplay and Cat Power, plus previously released songs from The Head and the Heart and Hozier.
- 6/20/2014
- Hitfix
So many music fans have lived for the albums Gnarls Barkley–CeeLo Green and Danger Mouse–were creating. They haven’t made an album in recent years due to the two partners doing different projects, most notably, Green’s high-powered stint on NBC’s “The Voice” and Danger Mouse’s work with The Shins’ James Mercer on “Broken Bells.” But, according to Time, the two are getting back together again in 2014! TMZ broke this news when they posted a video Sunday of Green being asked whether he would collaborate again with Danger Mouse. “Yeah, next year,” Green responded. Now it’s time to speculate as to what kind of subject matter the upcoming album will consist [ Read More ]
The post CeeLo Green and Danger Mouse Reuniting in 2014 appeared first on Shockya.com.
The post CeeLo Green and Danger Mouse Reuniting in 2014 appeared first on Shockya.com.
- 12/26/2013
- by monique
- ShockYa
The Dirty Projectors and Dinosaur Jr. guitarist J Mascis are two among a whole group of guest stars slated for the next season of Fred Armisen and Carrie Brownstein's Portlandia, Entertainment Weekly reports.
Also set to appear on the IFC sketch-comedy show: Roseanne Barr, Patton Oswalt, Juliette Lewis, George Wendt, Rose Byrne, Bill Hader, Bobby Moyniham, Jim Gaffigan, Matt Berry, Matt Lucas and, to top it all off, former tennis champ Martina Navratilova.
The Projectors and Mascis, of course, aren't the show's first musical guests. Last season, the Shin's James Mercer,...
Also set to appear on the IFC sketch-comedy show: Roseanne Barr, Patton Oswalt, Juliette Lewis, George Wendt, Rose Byrne, Bill Hader, Bobby Moyniham, Jim Gaffigan, Matt Berry, Matt Lucas and, to top it all off, former tennis champ Martina Navratilova.
The Projectors and Mascis, of course, aren't the show's first musical guests. Last season, the Shin's James Mercer,...
- 11/27/2012
- Rollingstone.com
Jane’s Addiction frontman Perry Farrell is looking to bring a new kind of music performance series to primetime.
The Lollapalooza founder is shopping a project to broadcast networks that takes the TV music show out of the hands of amateur singers and gives it back to the pros. The series would simply feature spectacular live performances by popular artists — no judges, no eliminations.
One could see why networks might be intrigued: Music performance-driven award shows like the Grammys and CMAs have continued to rack up big ratings in recent years, even as the average audience for other genres has declined.
The Lollapalooza founder is shopping a project to broadcast networks that takes the TV music show out of the hands of amateur singers and gives it back to the pros. The series would simply feature spectacular live performances by popular artists — no judges, no eliminations.
One could see why networks might be intrigued: Music performance-driven award shows like the Grammys and CMAs have continued to rack up big ratings in recent years, even as the average audience for other genres has declined.
- 8/9/2012
- by James Hibberd
- EW - Inside TV
This isn't The Shins' first time in the national spotlight -- those honors go to the movie "Garden State," in which Natalie Portman's character shared the wonder of the indie pop band with Zach Braff, saying, "You gotta hear this one song -- it'll change your life; I swear."
The band is back with a new album, "Port of Morrow," which comes out March 20, and appeared on the Jonah Hill-hosted "Saturday Night Live" in advance of its release.
Frontman James Mercer performed new single "Simple Song," followed by the new track "It's Only Life," on March 10's "SNL." We're big fans of the band, so we were delighted to see them get such great exposure. The new songs are great, and the performance rocked -- especially compared to some of this season's musical guests.
What did you think? Were you familiar with the band before? Check out the...
The band is back with a new album, "Port of Morrow," which comes out March 20, and appeared on the Jonah Hill-hosted "Saturday Night Live" in advance of its release.
Frontman James Mercer performed new single "Simple Song," followed by the new track "It's Only Life," on March 10's "SNL." We're big fans of the band, so we were delighted to see them get such great exposure. The new songs are great, and the performance rocked -- especially compared to some of this season's musical guests.
What did you think? Were you familiar with the band before? Check out the...
- 3/11/2012
- by editorial@zap2it.com
- Zap2It - From Inside the Box
The Shins are the latest in the growing roster of indie bands to take the SNL stage. The band performed on the Jonah Hill-hosted episode Saturday night, playing two tracks off their forthcoming first album in five years, Port of Morrow -- "Simple Song" and "It's Only Life." From there, the band is heading to SXSW, where they'll hopefully put their clapping butter to good use.
Their performances here are so put together, they wouldn't sound out of place as the final, polished tracks on their record. Tune in at the three-minute mark on "Simple Song" to hear James Mercer's voice drop an octave and show us what it can do.
Port of Morrow drops March 20, but you can catch it in full, streaming on iTunes starting Tuesday.
Watch The Shins perform "Simple Song":
Watch The Shins perform "It's Only Life":...
Their performances here are so put together, they wouldn't sound out of place as the final, polished tracks on their record. Tune in at the three-minute mark on "Simple Song" to hear James Mercer's voice drop an octave and show us what it can do.
Port of Morrow drops March 20, but you can catch it in full, streaming on iTunes starting Tuesday.
Watch The Shins perform "Simple Song":
Watch The Shins perform "It's Only Life":...
- 3/11/2012
- by Gazelle Emami
- Huffington Post
The Shins just released the second video from their upcoming fourth studio album, Port of Morrow, the reconfigured band's first release in 5 years, as well as their first on frontman James Mercer's label, Aural Apothecary.
The video for "Bait and Switch" sees the band rehearsing in a wood-paneled cabin, which Prefix identifies as a cabin in Portland, and Pitchfork further whittles down to Portland, Ore. Cue "Portlandia" jokes, changing Natalie Portman's life again jokes, etc. Oh, and also: it's a good Shins-sounding song, everyone. Port Morrow drops March 20.
Watch:...
The video for "Bait and Switch" sees the band rehearsing in a wood-paneled cabin, which Prefix identifies as a cabin in Portland, and Pitchfork further whittles down to Portland, Ore. Cue "Portlandia" jokes, changing Natalie Portman's life again jokes, etc. Oh, and also: it's a good Shins-sounding song, everyone. Port Morrow drops March 20.
Watch:...
- 3/2/2012
- by The Huffington Post
- Huffington Post
What parent wouldn't want their parting sentiment to their children to be "You'll be sorry when I'm dead?" James Mercer has that kind of vision for his once and future kin in "Simple Song," which sends his "children" -- played partly by his Shins bandmates -- on an adventure through their old house and memories for a little closure on Mercer's last will and testament. Entertainingly macabre. The Shins are releasing their next album "Port of Morrow" on March 20, and in promoting it, they've been invited back to "Saturday Night Live" for a second time. They'll be joined by Jonah...
- 2/23/2012
- Hitfix
Below find an interview with "Some Days Are Better Than Others" director Matt McCormick, orginally published during indieWIRE's coverage of New Directors/New Films. The films opens at New York's Cinema Village on Friday, June 3rd. "Some Days Are Better Than Others" Synopsis: Eli (James Mercer) traverses Portland, Oregon, working a series of minimum-wage temp jobs in order to pay off a loan so that he can finish school. Dog shelter ...
- 6/3/2011
- Indiewire
Below find an interview with "Some Days Are Better Than Others" director Matt McCormick, orginally published during indieWIRE's coverage of New Directors/New Films. The films opens at New York's Cinema Village on Friday, June 3rd. "Some Days Are Better Than Others" Synopsis: Eli (James Mercer) traverses Portland, Oregon, working a series of minimum-wage temp jobs in order to pay off a loan so that he can finish school. Dog shelter ...
- 6/3/2011
- indieWIRE - People
Matt McCormick’s debut feature film Some Days Are Better Than Others is screening for one week, from June 3 to 9, at Cinema Village in NYC. You can look up specific showtimes and buy tickets in advance online at the theater’s website.
The film is a fictional narrative about the lives of several people living on the fringes of society, including an animal shelter worker who is obsessed with reality TV, a slacker who holds off finding employment, a thrift store worker and an elderly filmmaker.
Starring in the film are: Carrie Brownstein (of Sleater-Kinney), James Mercer, David Wodehouse, Renee Roman Nose and Erin McGarry.
The official synopsis reads:
Some Days are Better Than Others is a poetic, character-driven film that asks why the good times slip by so fast while the difficult times seem so sticky. The film explores ideas of abundance, emptiness, human connection and abandonment while observing...
The film is a fictional narrative about the lives of several people living on the fringes of society, including an animal shelter worker who is obsessed with reality TV, a slacker who holds off finding employment, a thrift store worker and an elderly filmmaker.
Starring in the film are: Carrie Brownstein (of Sleater-Kinney), James Mercer, David Wodehouse, Renee Roman Nose and Erin McGarry.
The official synopsis reads:
Some Days are Better Than Others is a poetic, character-driven film that asks why the good times slip by so fast while the difficult times seem so sticky. The film explores ideas of abundance, emptiness, human connection and abandonment while observing...
- 6/3/2011
- by Mike Everleth
- Underground Film Journal
Title: Some Days Are Better Than Others Writer-director: Matt McCormick Starring: James Mercer, Carrie Brownstein, David Wodehouse, Renee Roman Nose, Eric McGarry A delicate tone poem ensemble set in Portland, writer-director Matt McCormick’s “Some Days Are Better Than Others” is an unfussy rumination on modern human disillusionment and connection. The so-called “mumblecore” genre has gotten a bit of a bum rap for the dawdling pace and seemingly lesson-free nature of many of its entries, but there’s a pleasant and refreshing sense of cinematic rejuvenation that comes with submitting to a film that feels entirely of a piece in all its elements, but also unburdened by any sense of desperate, dutiful...
- 6/1/2011
- by bsimon
- ShockYa
Mathew Cooper, who records as Eluvium, was struck by the themes of damaged things in director Matt McCormick's "Some Days Are Better Than Others" when he set about scoring the film, and decided to use an cache of damaged equipment to do it.
Years of thrifting all manner of junked keyboards and gear finally paid off for Cooper who longed to lure out the "ghosts" within them. The result is his moving score, thick with nostalgic drone, quietly bursting with broken things. It's being released April 26th, on Temporary Residence Ltd. You can listen to the title track here, courtesy of Pitchfork.
Download: Mathew Cooper -- "Some Days Are Better Than Others"
"Some Days Are Better Than Others" stars Portlandia's Carrie Brownstein (Sleater-Kinney) and James Mercer (Broken Bells, The Shins), who occasionally cross paths as they struggle with the broken parts of their lives.
Years of thrifting all manner of junked keyboards and gear finally paid off for Cooper who longed to lure out the "ghosts" within them. The result is his moving score, thick with nostalgic drone, quietly bursting with broken things. It's being released April 26th, on Temporary Residence Ltd. You can listen to the title track here, courtesy of Pitchfork.
Download: Mathew Cooper -- "Some Days Are Better Than Others"
"Some Days Are Better Than Others" stars Portlandia's Carrie Brownstein (Sleater-Kinney) and James Mercer (Broken Bells, The Shins), who occasionally cross paths as they struggle with the broken parts of their lives.
- 3/2/2011
- by Brandon Kim
- ifc.com
Ahead of its screening at New Directors/New Films, Palisades Tartan has secured distribution rights to Matt McCormick's debut feature "Some Days Are Better Than Others," starring musicians James Mercer from The Shins and Carrie Brownstein, the vocalist behind Wild Flag. The film is slated to open theatrically March 25 at the Hollywood Theater in Portland, before opening wider across the country. "Matt McCormick is a very talented young director and ...
- 2/22/2011
- Indiewire
Celebrating its 40th year of spotlighting the world’s best up-and-coming feature filmmakers, the Museum of Modern Art and Film Society of Lincoln Center’s prestigious New Directors/New Films series has chosen Portland-based experimental filmmaker Matt McCormick‘s Some Days Are Better Than Others to screen.
McCormick is hardly a “new” director. He’s been making short films and music videos since 1999. However, Some Days Are Better Than Others is his first feature-length project. The movie follows the lives of several quirky Portland residents who all experience the good times of their lives slipping quickly into memory, while their more painful moments are so difficult to let go of.
Starring in the film is Carrie Brownstein, the former guitarist and singer for the band Sleater-Kinney and current star of the hit IFC cable TV series Portlandia. Brownstein previously appeared in Miranda July’s short film Getting Stronger Every Day...
McCormick is hardly a “new” director. He’s been making short films and music videos since 1999. However, Some Days Are Better Than Others is his first feature-length project. The movie follows the lives of several quirky Portland residents who all experience the good times of their lives slipping quickly into memory, while their more painful moments are so difficult to let go of.
Starring in the film is Carrie Brownstein, the former guitarist and singer for the band Sleater-Kinney and current star of the hit IFC cable TV series Portlandia. Brownstein previously appeared in Miranda July’s short film Getting Stronger Every Day...
- 2/17/2011
- by Mike Everleth
- Underground Film Journal
With Tsr Buzz, you’ll find links to articles, videos and other random things that will help you waste your time just a little bit more.
Like Nick, I have the post-Grammy fever. Arcade Fire’s win was so well-earned, it’s one of those award show moments where you really feel that what happened was right (another such victory in my mind was American Beauty‘s win at the Oscars.) Here, Arcade Fire performs an electric version of “Ready To Start” after winning their Grammy.
Lady Gaga disappointed me on Sunday. Her “costume” resembled a bikini raincoat and the egg looked cool, but wasn’t very functional. Plus her song sounded exactly like Madonna’s “Express Yourself”. I was hoping that Her Madgesty would jump out and join in the performance, but oh well. Fever Ray’s Karin Andersson won an award at a Swedish music awards show back in June.
Like Nick, I have the post-Grammy fever. Arcade Fire’s win was so well-earned, it’s one of those award show moments where you really feel that what happened was right (another such victory in my mind was American Beauty‘s win at the Oscars.) Here, Arcade Fire performs an electric version of “Ready To Start” after winning their Grammy.
Lady Gaga disappointed me on Sunday. Her “costume” resembled a bikini raincoat and the egg looked cool, but wasn’t very functional. Plus her song sounded exactly like Madonna’s “Express Yourself”. I was hoping that Her Madgesty would jump out and join in the performance, but oh well. Fever Ray’s Karin Andersson won an award at a Swedish music awards show back in June.
- 2/17/2011
- by Megan Lehar
- The Scorecard Review
IFC Renews Original Comedy Series “Portlandia” For A Second Season
10 New Episodes Set to Debut in January 2012
From the Press Release:
New York, NY – February 14, 2011 – IFC has greenlit a second season of viewer favorite Portlandia, the IFC original, short-based, comedy series created, written by and starring Fred Armisen (SNL) and Portland-native Carrie Brownstein (vocalist/guitarist, Sleater-Kinney). The network has ordered 10 new half-hour episodes to premiere in January 2012.
“We’re thrilled with the success of Portlandia and the overwhelmingly positive feedback from our viewers,” said Debbie DeMontreux, senior vice president, original programming, IFC. “Fred and Carrie’s humor is perfectly in line with the sensibility and comedic tone of IFC which makes this show such a great fit for us. This early renewal signifies that IFC’s alt comedy programming is indeed resonating with our audience.”
According to Live+3 data from Nielsen Media, the initial three episodes of Portlandia have been...
10 New Episodes Set to Debut in January 2012
From the Press Release:
New York, NY – February 14, 2011 – IFC has greenlit a second season of viewer favorite Portlandia, the IFC original, short-based, comedy series created, written by and starring Fred Armisen (SNL) and Portland-native Carrie Brownstein (vocalist/guitarist, Sleater-Kinney). The network has ordered 10 new half-hour episodes to premiere in January 2012.
“We’re thrilled with the success of Portlandia and the overwhelmingly positive feedback from our viewers,” said Debbie DeMontreux, senior vice president, original programming, IFC. “Fred and Carrie’s humor is perfectly in line with the sensibility and comedic tone of IFC which makes this show such a great fit for us. This early renewal signifies that IFC’s alt comedy programming is indeed resonating with our audience.”
According to Live+3 data from Nielsen Media, the initial three episodes of Portlandia have been...
- 2/14/2011
- by brians
- GeekTyrant
Rating: 7.5/10
Director: Matt McCormick
Writer: Matt McCormick
Cast: Carrie Brownstein, James Mercer, Renee Roman Nose, David Wodehouse
The title Some Days Are Better Than Others suggests a tale of the highs and lows of every day life with a melancholic bent– and that is exactly what you get from this film.
Read more on SXSW 2010 Review: Some Days Are Better Than Others…...
Director: Matt McCormick
Writer: Matt McCormick
Cast: Carrie Brownstein, James Mercer, Renee Roman Nose, David Wodehouse
The title Some Days Are Better Than Others suggests a tale of the highs and lows of every day life with a melancholic bent– and that is exactly what you get from this film.
Read more on SXSW 2010 Review: Some Days Are Better Than Others…...
- 3/25/2010
- by Ronnita Miller
- GordonandtheWhale
SXSW Review
Some Days are Better than Others
Director: Matt McCormick
World Premiere
Narrative Competition
93 minutes
Complete Coverage of SXSW 2010
Synopsis
Some Days are Better Than Others is a poetic, character-driven feature-length film that asks why the good times slip by so fast while the hard times always seem so sticky. The film explores ideas of abundance, emptiness, human connection and abandonment while observing an interweaving web of awkward characters that maintain hope by inventing their own forms of communication and self-fulfillment. Written and directed by Matt McCormick and featuring Carrie Brownstein, James Mercer, Renee Roman Nose, and David Wodehouse, Some Days are Better Than Others is a sad valentine to the forgotten discards of a throwaway society, and a story about knowing when to hold on, and when to let go.
Director Bio
Matt McCormick is a Portland based filmmaker and artist who has made several short films, music videos,...
Some Days are Better than Others
Director: Matt McCormick
World Premiere
Narrative Competition
93 minutes
Complete Coverage of SXSW 2010
Synopsis
Some Days are Better Than Others is a poetic, character-driven feature-length film that asks why the good times slip by so fast while the hard times always seem so sticky. The film explores ideas of abundance, emptiness, human connection and abandonment while observing an interweaving web of awkward characters that maintain hope by inventing their own forms of communication and self-fulfillment. Written and directed by Matt McCormick and featuring Carrie Brownstein, James Mercer, Renee Roman Nose, and David Wodehouse, Some Days are Better Than Others is a sad valentine to the forgotten discards of a throwaway society, and a story about knowing when to hold on, and when to let go.
Director Bio
Matt McCormick is a Portland based filmmaker and artist who has made several short films, music videos,...
- 3/23/2010
- by Jeff Bayer
- The Scorecard Review
Carrie Brownstein ought to write a movie about rock and roll. She's played guitar for the eminent rock band Sleater-Kinney. She has a music blog on NPR.org called Monitor Mix, and has also written for Slate and the Believer. And she's acting in her first feature-length film, "Some Days Are Better Than Others," which premiered Sunday here at SXSW. In the film, directed by Matt McCormick, she stars alongside fellow Portland musician James Mercer, formerly of the Shins and currently of Broken Bells, this year's featured band at SXSW. Her double duties at this year's fest -- as an actor and as a curator for NPR's showcase -- have her feeling invigorated. Over the phone from a hotel room in Austin, Carrie recounted Sunday's cringing movie-viewing experience, broke down her transition from musician to writer, and hinted at a Sleater-Kinney reunion as but one of her near future musical endeavors.
- 3/17/2010
- by Michael Hoinski
- ifc.com
Corey Feldman appeared on "Larry King Live" last night to talk about Corey Haim, who's body wasn't even cooled yet. Because of course he fucking did. (Litelysalted)
And in other Corey Haim news, he reportedly turned down "Celebrity Rehab" only a week before he died. Yeaaah ... Not to be a dick or anything, but thinking he still made the right call here. (Warming Glow)
I mentioned earlier this week that Betty White had confirmed her "SNL" appearance, but now there's a date and everything! She'll be co-hosting for a special Mother's Day episode alongside Tina Fey, Maya Rudolph and Amy Poehler, among others. (DListed)
Tickets for Conan O'Brien's "Legally Prohibited From Being Funny on Television" tour went on sale today, per everyone I know on Facebook. (Team Coco)
Oh wow, I never saw this coming. The Arrested Development movie is delayed. Again. (The Playlist)
Still shots are out for...
And in other Corey Haim news, he reportedly turned down "Celebrity Rehab" only a week before he died. Yeaaah ... Not to be a dick or anything, but thinking he still made the right call here. (Warming Glow)
I mentioned earlier this week that Betty White had confirmed her "SNL" appearance, but now there's a date and everything! She'll be co-hosting for a special Mother's Day episode alongside Tina Fey, Maya Rudolph and Amy Poehler, among others. (DListed)
Tickets for Conan O'Brien's "Legally Prohibited From Being Funny on Television" tour went on sale today, per everyone I know on Facebook. (Team Coco)
Oh wow, I never saw this coming. The Arrested Development movie is delayed. Again. (The Playlist)
Still shots are out for...
- 3/11/2010
- by Stacey Nosek
Howdy Interwebbers. I’m Matt Cohen and I dig the D.
Of course, I am referring to Tenacious D - the folk-metal guitar duo made up of Jack Black (Jables) and Kyle Gass (Kage). I’ve been getting my socks rocked off’ since high school, and have been an avid follower of all things D ever since. I voraciously devour their new albums and attend as many live shows as I can, so it was to my delight and surprise that the boys had put together an epic night of comedy and music… and better yet, it was for a great cause. I snagged my ticket, patiently waited a few weeks, ventured out in the heart of Korea Town (and hunted for a good/free parking spot, Which I found, thank you very much) and was presented with a night of performances I would never forget.
Want to live vicariously through me?...
Of course, I am referring to Tenacious D - the folk-metal guitar duo made up of Jack Black (Jables) and Kyle Gass (Kage). I’ve been getting my socks rocked off’ since high school, and have been an avid follower of all things D ever since. I voraciously devour their new albums and attend as many live shows as I can, so it was to my delight and surprise that the boys had put together an epic night of comedy and music… and better yet, it was for a great cause. I snagged my ticket, patiently waited a few weeks, ventured out in the heart of Korea Town (and hunted for a good/free parking spot, Which I found, thank you very much) and was presented with a night of performances I would never forget.
Want to live vicariously through me?...
- 2/19/2010
- by mattcohen
The South by Southwest Film Festival announced its 2010 feature line-up Wednesday night, and I couldn’t be more excited. The nine day event starts March 12, 2010 here in Austin, Texas, and I’ll be covering as much as I can from start to finish. Though, if it’s anything like last year, I’ll be asleep on my feet by the end of it.
The 2010 list includes 119 films (55 world premieres), but here are a few notables: The previously announced Kick-Ass will start the festivities. Elektra Luxx, the sequel to the underseen comedy Women in Trouble, starring Carla Gugino, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, and too many more to name. Tim Blake Nelson’s Leaves of Grass in which Edward Norton plays identical twins. A documentary titled People vs. George Lucas that I will be seeing. Jean-Pierre Jeunet’s Micmacs. Plus the “SNL” spin-off movie MacGruber in its world premiere, possibly before the MacGyver creator shuts it down.
The 2010 list includes 119 films (55 world premieres), but here are a few notables: The previously announced Kick-Ass will start the festivities. Elektra Luxx, the sequel to the underseen comedy Women in Trouble, starring Carla Gugino, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, and too many more to name. Tim Blake Nelson’s Leaves of Grass in which Edward Norton plays identical twins. A documentary titled People vs. George Lucas that I will be seeing. Jean-Pierre Jeunet’s Micmacs. Plus the “SNL” spin-off movie MacGruber in its world premiere, possibly before the MacGyver creator shuts it down.
- 2/4/2010
- by Jeff Leins
- newsinfilm.com
If you've been wondering what's been up with The Shins, you'll find your answer from at least the indie-rock group's frontman James Mercer. The singer-songwriter has gotten involved in a non-music endeavor by starring in forthcoming indie flick "Some Days Are Better Than Others," which will debut during the film and music portions at the South by Southwest Film + Music Festival, March 12-20. Carrie Brownstein, current NPR contributor and former guitarist/singer for Sleater-Kinney, stars alongside Mercer in the low-budget, feature-length film, the first film written and directed by Matt McCormick. "Some Days" "explores ideas of abundance, emptiness, human connection and abandonment...
- 2/4/2010
- by Katie Hasty
- Hitfix
Expect the indie-rock crowd to turn out in droves for Matt McCormick's indie drama Some Days Are Better Than Others. What looks to be a very introspective and quietly quirky piece of work, music video director McCormick called in a pair of former clients - James Mercer from The Shins and Carrie Brownstein from Sleater-Kinney - to star in his feature debut. The synopsis to this one doesn't offer a lot int he way of hooks but the trailer makes it very clear that this will be all about mood and execution. Here's how the official website describes it:
Some Days are Better Than Others is Matt McCormick's poetic, character-driven debut feature-length film that asks why the good times slip by so fast while the difficult times seem so sticky. The film explores ideas of abundance, emptiness, human connection and abandonment while observing an interweaving web of awkward...
Some Days are Better Than Others is Matt McCormick's poetic, character-driven debut feature-length film that asks why the good times slip by so fast while the difficult times seem so sticky. The film explores ideas of abundance, emptiness, human connection and abandonment while observing an interweaving web of awkward...
- 2/4/2010
- Screen Anarchy
Less than a week worth of recovering from the Sundance Film Festival, and we are already looking forward to our next, big film fest coverage. That would be the South by Southwest Film Festival held annually in Austin, Texas. Last year, Scott and I brought you all kinds of coverage from the Lone Star State, and this year doesn’t look to be much different.
With that, the announcement came last night of the feature films that will be playing at the SXSW Film Festival. Previous announcement were already made about films like Cold Weather, Electra Luxx, Hubble 3D, Lemmy, Saturday Night, and The White Stripes: Under Great White Northern Lights making their debut. Kick-ass was recently announced as the opening night film, as well.
Among the other films being presented this year are some Sundance darlings, a few, highly anticipated premieres, and MacGruber.
Check out the full list...
With that, the announcement came last night of the feature films that will be playing at the SXSW Film Festival. Previous announcement were already made about films like Cold Weather, Electra Luxx, Hubble 3D, Lemmy, Saturday Night, and The White Stripes: Under Great White Northern Lights making their debut. Kick-ass was recently announced as the opening night film, as well.
Among the other films being presented this year are some Sundance darlings, a few, highly anticipated premieres, and MacGruber.
Check out the full list...
- 2/4/2010
- by Kirk
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
I was so excited at seeing the SXSW line up last night that I completely forgot to post it and started searching the interwebs for cool content to go with it. Oops. Yes, I wish I was there but alas, it wasn’t mean to be (though don’t despair. We’ll be bringing you wicked awesome coverage).
But enough rambling, you want to know what’s all playing. Well, for a start there’s the much anticipated McGruber (trailer), the Duplass’ semi-mainstream comedy Cyrus, Jean-Pierre Jeunet’s Micmacs (trailer, review), Daniel Stamm’s horror flick Cotton and that’s on top of the previously announced titles which include Electra Luxx (Carla Gugino as a pregnant porn star? Bring. It. On.) and Kick-Ass (trailer). That’s already a great line-up but dear me, some of the other titles are pretty awesome too.
There’s Clay Liford scifi drama Earthling (trailer...
But enough rambling, you want to know what’s all playing. Well, for a start there’s the much anticipated McGruber (trailer), the Duplass’ semi-mainstream comedy Cyrus, Jean-Pierre Jeunet’s Micmacs (trailer, review), Daniel Stamm’s horror flick Cotton and that’s on top of the previously announced titles which include Electra Luxx (Carla Gugino as a pregnant porn star? Bring. It. On.) and Kick-Ass (trailer). That’s already a great line-up but dear me, some of the other titles are pretty awesome too.
There’s Clay Liford scifi drama Earthling (trailer...
- 2/4/2010
- QuietEarth.us
Late yesterday the SXSW Fim Festival, which runs from March 12-20 in Austin, TX, announced the full lineup of films that will be screening at this year’s event. And baby, it’s quite a list. Mixing big name films with intimate indie gems, the sheer number of films and the vast array of talented filmmakers is sure to be a hit with attendees and critics alike.
This lineup includes premieres of studio films such as Universal’s MacGruber, Lionsgate’s teen superhero actioneer Kick-Ass and smaller films like Tim Blake Nelson’s Leaves of Grass, Jean-Pierre Jeunet’s Micmacs, Michel Gondry’s The Thorn in the Heart and Steven Soderbergh’s And Everything Is Going Fine. With so many films to watch, it will be very difficult to find time to seem them all during the events nine days. But hell, we’re going to try.
For more on...
This lineup includes premieres of studio films such as Universal’s MacGruber, Lionsgate’s teen superhero actioneer Kick-Ass and smaller films like Tim Blake Nelson’s Leaves of Grass, Jean-Pierre Jeunet’s Micmacs, Michel Gondry’s The Thorn in the Heart and Steven Soderbergh’s And Everything Is Going Fine. With so many films to watch, it will be very difficult to find time to seem them all during the events nine days. But hell, we’re going to try.
For more on...
- 2/4/2010
- by Chris Ullrich
- The Flickcast
The South by Southwest Film Conference and Festival unveiled its feature film program Wednesday night, highlighted by the world premieres of action spoof "MacGruber" and "Mr. Nice," a real-life tale of an infamous British drug smuggler starring Rhys Ifans.
Features from the Duplass brothers ("Cyrus"), Steven Soderbergh ("And Everything Is Going Fine"), Michel Gondry ("The Thorn in the Heart") and Tim Blake Nelson ("Leaves of Grass") also have spots on the program.
The March 12-20 festival will showcase 119 features and 55 world premieres, including pervasively announced opening-night film "Kick-Ass." Selections were chosen from 1,572 submissions (1,206 U.S., 366 international).
"We want discovery," said conference and fest producer Janet Pierson, now in her second year. "We want a real range of films across the board."
Eight narrative and eight documentary features comprise the main competition categories.
The narrative selections are "Brotherhood," directed by Will Canon; "Dance With the One" (Mike Dolan); "Earthling" (Clay Liford...
Features from the Duplass brothers ("Cyrus"), Steven Soderbergh ("And Everything Is Going Fine"), Michel Gondry ("The Thorn in the Heart") and Tim Blake Nelson ("Leaves of Grass") also have spots on the program.
The March 12-20 festival will showcase 119 features and 55 world premieres, including pervasively announced opening-night film "Kick-Ass." Selections were chosen from 1,572 submissions (1,206 U.S., 366 international).
"We want discovery," said conference and fest producer Janet Pierson, now in her second year. "We want a real range of films across the board."
Eight narrative and eight documentary features comprise the main competition categories.
The narrative selections are "Brotherhood," directed by Will Canon; "Dance With the One" (Mike Dolan); "Earthling" (Clay Liford...
- 2/4/2010
- by By Jay A. Fernandez
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Anyone who considers themselves well versed in American indie cinema of the last few years has seen at least one of these indie classics: Wendy and Lucy (review), Paranoid Park and Old Joy. If you haven't seen at least one (if not all of these), you really need to get cracking but I'm not here to admonish your viewing practices, only to share awesomeness so here we go.
The producers of those three films have gathered their considerable knowledge and provided yet another entry into the indie cannon. Matt McCormick's directorial debut Some Days are Better than Others certainly looks the part: beautiful cinematography, cryptic trailer, wicked cast. The film stars former Sleater-Kinney guitar hero Carrie Brownstein and Shins frontman James Mercer in an exploration of “abundance, emptiness, human connection and abandonment while observing an interweaving web of awkward characters who maintain hope by inventing their own forms of communication and self-fulfillment.
The producers of those three films have gathered their considerable knowledge and provided yet another entry into the indie cannon. Matt McCormick's directorial debut Some Days are Better than Others certainly looks the part: beautiful cinematography, cryptic trailer, wicked cast. The film stars former Sleater-Kinney guitar hero Carrie Brownstein and Shins frontman James Mercer in an exploration of “abundance, emptiness, human connection and abandonment while observing an interweaving web of awkward characters who maintain hope by inventing their own forms of communication and self-fulfillment.
- 2/4/2010
- QuietEarth.us
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