Cool Hunting
Entries with keyword "pop"
25 result(s) displayed (1 - 25 of 29)
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Grifted Boutique
(27 October 2009) - by Ashley Eldridge Stuffed Mao Zedong dolls and candy wrapper curtains beckon from the windows of the Grifted shop on Beijing's famed Nanluoguxiang. Inside, irreverence reigns. Barack Obama, decked out in a Superman suit (all the more fitting post-Nobel), nestles up against Fidel Castro and miniscule Napoleon dolls. (The little dictator doesn't come full-size.) Bedazzled Buddhas and reindeer pandas dot pre-cut squares of wrapping paper....
(27 October 2009) - by Ashley Eldridge Stuffed Mao Zedong dolls and candy wrapper curtains beckon from the windows of the Grifted shop on Beijing's famed Nanluoguxiang. Inside, irreverence reigns. Barack Obama, decked out in a Superman suit (all the more fitting post-Nobel), nestles up against Fidel Castro and miniscule Napoleon dolls. (The little dictator doesn't come full-size.) Bedazzled Buddhas and reindeer pandas dot pre-cut squares of wrapping paper....
Holiday Shores: Columbus'd The Whim
(23 October 2009) - Likely due to their home state, name and penchant for upbeat chord progressions, Florida's Holiday Shores draw comparisons to a slew of feel-good bands like Wavves, Beach Fossils and the Beach Boys, to name a few. But writing them off as surfer-dude tunes misses the mark. The band wisely tempers sunny melodies with a healthy dissonant sheen, such that each carefully-crafted pop melody comes...
(23 October 2009) - Likely due to their home state, name and penchant for upbeat chord progressions, Florida's Holiday Shores draw comparisons to a slew of feel-good bands like Wavves, Beach Fossils and the Beach Boys, to name a few. But writing them off as surfer-dude tunes misses the mark. The band wisely tempers sunny melodies with a healthy dissonant sheen, such that each carefully-crafted pop melody comes...
Cool Hunting's Fall 2009 Playlist
(16 September 2009) - As summer hanging makes way for classes and meetings, the changing season calls for a soundtrack of syncopated digital beats and rock 'n' roll jams for setting a productive mood. Of course, fall wouldn't be fall without shedding a small tear for the parties that had to end, romances that seem frivolous in fall and trees losing their leaves, which all feels most satisfyingly...
(16 September 2009) - As summer hanging makes way for classes and meetings, the changing season calls for a soundtrack of syncopated digital beats and rock 'n' roll jams for setting a productive mood. Of course, fall wouldn't be fall without shedding a small tear for the parties that had to end, romances that seem frivolous in fall and trees losing their leaves, which all feels most satisfyingly...
Cool Hunting's Summer 2009 Playlist
(29 May 2009) - This collection of tracks (click here to launch a player) represents a selection of our favorite new jams and a few classics, all inspired by the warm days of summer and activities like beach trips and rooftop parties. When we all started listening compulsively (the crowd-pleasing soundtrack played at my own Memorial Day BBQ), we knew we had a winner on our hands. —Ami...
(29 May 2009) - This collection of tracks (click here to launch a player) represents a selection of our favorite new jams and a few classics, all inspired by the warm days of summer and activities like beach trips and rooftop parties. When we all started listening compulsively (the crowd-pleasing soundtrack played at my own Memorial Day BBQ), we knew we had a winner on our hands. —Ami...
Wave Machines: Wave If You're Really There
(21 May 2009) - Influenced by drinks, drugs and gravity, the foursome behind Brit band Wave Machines pump out eclectropop hits packed with psychedelic undertones and catchy beats that make you feel like you're floating on air. But their debut album, Wave If You're Really There, isn't only full of frolicsome tunes. Songs like "Punk Spirit" and "You Say The Stupidest Things" slow it down, showing off their...
(21 May 2009) - Influenced by drinks, drugs and gravity, the foursome behind Brit band Wave Machines pump out eclectropop hits packed with psychedelic undertones and catchy beats that make you feel like you're floating on air. But their debut album, Wave If You're Really There, isn't only full of frolicsome tunes. Songs like "Punk Spirit" and "You Say The Stupidest Things" slow it down, showing off their...
Solid Gold
(13 May 2009) - Minneapolis is usually know for being cold, but as the music scene there intensifies, it's beginning to be known for stellar indie bands like Solid Gold. We can't stop listening to the cheeky synth-pop trio and their most recent album, "Bodies of Water." The repeat-worthy tracks are sharp but full of smooth, ethereal melodies that float around and consume your head. The name Solid...
(13 May 2009) - Minneapolis is usually know for being cold, but as the music scene there intensifies, it's beginning to be known for stellar indie bands like Solid Gold. We can't stop listening to the cheeky synth-pop trio and their most recent album, "Bodies of Water." The repeat-worthy tracks are sharp but full of smooth, ethereal melodies that float around and consume your head. The name Solid...
Pow Wow!
(09 April 2009) - The bond between brothers can be a tumultuous one, but the musical fruits are plentiful. Just ask the Kinks' Davies brothers, the Greenwoods of Radiohead or the National, who can claim two sets of brothers. This grand tradition extends to Brooklyn-via-Jersey siblings Edward and Jeff Nazareno, who perform under the moniker pow wow! The two have been playing music independently for more than 11...
(09 April 2009) - The bond between brothers can be a tumultuous one, but the musical fruits are plentiful. Just ask the Kinks' Davies brothers, the Greenwoods of Radiohead or the National, who can claim two sets of brothers. This grand tradition extends to Brooklyn-via-Jersey siblings Edward and Jeff Nazareno, who perform under the moniker pow wow! The two have been playing music independently for more than 11...
Brett Dennen
(11 December 2008) - We asked Oakdale, California singer-songwriter Brett Dennen, who has one of the finest voices in contemporary pop-folk, about the humor which swirls amidst the brutal honesty of his lyrics, and whether he was generally a positive person by nature.I'm weird. I can be laid back, and I can be stressed. I can be positive, and I can be cynical. I think generally, I am...
(11 December 2008) - We asked Oakdale, California singer-songwriter Brett Dennen, who has one of the finest voices in contemporary pop-folk, about the humor which swirls amidst the brutal honesty of his lyrics, and whether he was generally a positive person by nature.I'm weird. I can be laid back, and I can be stressed. I can be positive, and I can be cynical. I think generally, I am...
Fergus Brown
(03 November 2008) - Recently announced as the support for American singer-songwriter, Martha Wainwright on all eleven shows of her Australian tour, we checked in with Sydney-based songwriter Fergus Brown to get the inside story on his wonderfully quirky and catchy pop song, "Nerds In Love." It was was a fun song to write. Some songs can be tortuous but this was an imagined, tongue-in-cheek vignette of my...
(03 November 2008) - Recently announced as the support for American singer-songwriter, Martha Wainwright on all eleven shows of her Australian tour, we checked in with Sydney-based songwriter Fergus Brown to get the inside story on his wonderfully quirky and catchy pop song, "Nerds In Love." It was was a fun song to write. Some songs can be tortuous but this was an imagined, tongue-in-cheek vignette of my...
Maths Class
(23 July 2008) - by Mat Lyon Maths Class are the latest U.K. band exploring the intersection where Post-Rock, New Wave, Pop and (yes) Math Rock collide. From the shards of this genre car crash, they form a compelling racket that's chaotic and precise in equal measure, jerking between passages at super speed and challenging the listener to keep up. They walk a tightrope of technical ability, creative endeavor...
(23 July 2008) - by Mat Lyon Maths Class are the latest U.K. band exploring the intersection where Post-Rock, New Wave, Pop and (yes) Math Rock collide. From the shards of this genre car crash, they form a compelling racket that's chaotic and precise in equal measure, jerking between passages at super speed and challenging the listener to keep up. They walk a tightrope of technical ability, creative endeavor...
Appaloosa
(07 April 2008) - She may well have the backing of Chan Marshall (aka Cat Power) but Paris-native Anne-Laure can well and truly hold her own when it comes to delivering quality electronic-pop. Her debut EP, produced by Germany's Max Krefeld, is an eclectic mix of '80s beats, synth electronics and haunting, distinctive vocals. A woman of many talents this pint-sized Frenchie had put music on the back...
(07 April 2008) - She may well have the backing of Chan Marshall (aka Cat Power) but Paris-native Anne-Laure can well and truly hold her own when it comes to delivering quality electronic-pop. Her debut EP, produced by Germany's Max Krefeld, is an eclectic mix of '80s beats, synth electronics and haunting, distinctive vocals. A woman of many talents this pint-sized Frenchie had put music on the back...
Harrisons
(04 March 2008) - A crackling assault of guitars and drums, lyrics that bristle with indignation. Sheffield's Harrisons are for our era what The Clash were for theirs: a voice of rebellion, masked in four minute pop gems. We spoke recently to drummer Mark White. Aside from Harrisons and Joe Cocker, what else should we know about the creative scene in Sheffield? The best band from Sheffield by...
(04 March 2008) - A crackling assault of guitars and drums, lyrics that bristle with indignation. Sheffield's Harrisons are for our era what The Clash were for theirs: a voice of rebellion, masked in four minute pop gems. We spoke recently to drummer Mark White. Aside from Harrisons and Joe Cocker, what else should we know about the creative scene in Sheffield? The best band from Sheffield by...
Lauren Molina
(11 February 2008) - If you're looking for a little sunshine to brighten up a cold winter day, check out the delightful debut album from indie pop singer-songwriter, Lauren Molina. An accomplished Broadway actress currently playing the role of Johanna in the national tour of Stephen Sondheim's "Sweeney Todd," Molina is a veritable one-woman orchestra, whose innovative arrangements for Doo-Be-Doo have her playing cello, ukulele, guitar, accordion, Wurlizter...
(11 February 2008) - If you're looking for a little sunshine to brighten up a cold winter day, check out the delightful debut album from indie pop singer-songwriter, Lauren Molina. An accomplished Broadway actress currently playing the role of Johanna in the national tour of Stephen Sondheim's "Sweeney Todd," Molina is a veritable one-woman orchestra, whose innovative arrangements for Doo-Be-Doo have her playing cello, ukulele, guitar, accordion, Wurlizter...
Lykke Li
(29 January 2008) - When CH predicted in 2006 that Swedish songstress Lykke Li was one to look out for in the coming year, it may have been a little premature. With her debut album, Youth Novels, slated for release at the end of this month, it looks as if the 21 years-old has 2008 written all over her. There's a huge bidding war underway for her now,...
(29 January 2008) - When CH predicted in 2006 that Swedish songstress Lykke Li was one to look out for in the coming year, it may have been a little premature. With her debut album, Youth Novels, slated for release at the end of this month, it looks as if the 21 years-old has 2008 written all over her. There's a huge bidding war underway for her now,...
The Sticks
(09 May 2007) - Gaining massive acclaim since their inception just over two years ago, Aussie band, The Sticks are well on their way to finding fame, fortune and a whole lot of fun. Sourcing inspiration from the music that infused their youth (think David Bowie, Elvis and Ray Charles) the three part band (two of whom are brothers) create a perfect fusion of modern rock, indie soul...
(09 May 2007) - Gaining massive acclaim since their inception just over two years ago, Aussie band, The Sticks are well on their way to finding fame, fortune and a whole lot of fun. Sourcing inspiration from the music that infused their youth (think David Bowie, Elvis and Ray Charles) the three part band (two of whom are brothers) create a perfect fusion of modern rock, indie soul...
The Paper Scissors
(28 June 2006) - Young Sydney group The Paper Scissors create a hybrid of sounds. It's a little funk, a little soul, roots and pop. James Brown in tight jeans? Yet despite their hyperactive approach, they've quickly developed a cult following amongst the Converse-wearing set across Australia. They've just released their debut self-titled EP and bigger things await. Check out their MySpace site for musical inspiration. ...
(28 June 2006) - Young Sydney group The Paper Scissors create a hybrid of sounds. It's a little funk, a little soul, roots and pop. James Brown in tight jeans? Yet despite their hyperactive approach, they've quickly developed a cult following amongst the Converse-wearing set across Australia. They've just released their debut self-titled EP and bigger things await. Check out their MySpace site for musical inspiration. ...
Alice Smith: For Lovers, Dreamers & Me
(01 June 2006) - Alice Smith’s For Lovers, Dreamers and Me, is a strikingly mature debut. Like the best pop music, it's original, genuine, and accessible. Characterized by soul-searching lyrics, tunes that are catchy without being cheesy, rich and subtle arrangements, and vocal performances that range from captivating to breathtaking, For Lovers journeys with ease through genres—from bluesy soul, to rock, to melodic pop, to country. The album...
(01 June 2006) - Alice Smith’s For Lovers, Dreamers and Me, is a strikingly mature debut. Like the best pop music, it's original, genuine, and accessible. Characterized by soul-searching lyrics, tunes that are catchy without being cheesy, rich and subtle arrangements, and vocal performances that range from captivating to breathtaking, For Lovers journeys with ease through genres—from bluesy soul, to rock, to melodic pop, to country. The album...
Andy Warhol "Giant" Size
(30 March 2006) - As the 20th anniversary of Warhol's death approaches, the king of pop art is being honored with a spectacular king sized visual biography. Taking inspiration from Warhol's over the top nature, Andy Warhol "Giant" Size depicts the major events, people, and works in the artist's life with a chronological examination of formerly private photographs, letters, film stills, notes, celebrity head shots and even ticket...
(30 March 2006) - As the 20th anniversary of Warhol's death approaches, the king of pop art is being honored with a spectacular king sized visual biography. Taking inspiration from Warhol's over the top nature, Andy Warhol "Giant" Size depicts the major events, people, and works in the artist's life with a chronological examination of formerly private photographs, letters, film stills, notes, celebrity head shots and even ticket...
Isobel Campbell and Mark Lanegan: Ballad of the Broken Seas
(24 February 2006) - Sad music is my favorite music. Is that because I’m depressed? Maybe, but I’ll take early Leonard Cohen and bottle of single malt over the latest Arctic Monkeys-type record and a vodka Red Bull every time. That’s just me. And for people like me, Mark Lanegan’s whiskey-soaked growl has always been as reliable as a drunk friend. After leaving grunge band the Screaming Trees,...
(24 February 2006) - Sad music is my favorite music. Is that because I’m depressed? Maybe, but I’ll take early Leonard Cohen and bottle of single malt over the latest Arctic Monkeys-type record and a vodka Red Bull every time. That’s just me. And for people like me, Mark Lanegan’s whiskey-soaked growl has always been as reliable as a drunk friend. After leaving grunge band the Screaming Trees,...
Gonzales: Solo Piano
(13 January 2006) - Minimal, sparse, and beautiful, Solo Piano is unlike anything else I’m listening to right now. Canadian-born musician, producer, and rapper Gonzales has worked with everyone from Jane Birkin, to Daft Punk, to ex-label mate Peaches. Critics compared him to Eminem, Prince, and Beck when his debut record, Gonzales Uber Alles, came out with a bang in 2000. That being said, this one might throw...
(13 January 2006) - Minimal, sparse, and beautiful, Solo Piano is unlike anything else I’m listening to right now. Canadian-born musician, producer, and rapper Gonzales has worked with everyone from Jane Birkin, to Daft Punk, to ex-label mate Peaches. Critics compared him to Eminem, Prince, and Beck when his debut record, Gonzales Uber Alles, came out with a bang in 2000. That being said, this one might throw...
Beck - Guerolito : The Remix Album
(30 November 2005) - Due for release December 13, Beck's Guerolito is a unique and at times ballsy little brother to the critically-acclaimed, chart-topping album Guero. Beck personally chose 13 very diverse artists to re-interpret Guero, his eighth and most successful album to date, one that many people consider to be a return to the style of his breakout classic Odelay. Worth remembering, both Odelay and Guero utilized...
(30 November 2005) - Due for release December 13, Beck's Guerolito is a unique and at times ballsy little brother to the critically-acclaimed, chart-topping album Guero. Beck personally chose 13 very diverse artists to re-interpret Guero, his eighth and most successful album to date, one that many people consider to be a return to the style of his breakout classic Odelay. Worth remembering, both Odelay and Guero utilized...
Review: Madonna's Confessions=***1/2
(09 November 2005) - One of this season’s most highly anticipated albums finally made its way across my desk –- and it hasn’t stopped playing since I got it. Madonna has outdone herself once again. On Confessions on a Dance Floor, the Queen Chameleon did what she should have done years ago –- create a non-stop, no-breaks-between-songs dance remix album. For years, singles quickly followed up every album...
(09 November 2005) - One of this season’s most highly anticipated albums finally made its way across my desk –- and it hasn’t stopped playing since I got it. Madonna has outdone herself once again. On Confessions on a Dance Floor, the Queen Chameleon did what she should have done years ago –- create a non-stop, no-breaks-between-songs dance remix album. For years, singles quickly followed up every album...
Madonna's Disco Love
(19 September 2005) - As with everything Madonna does, she does it with style, creativity and of course a ton of mystery. Step by step, Madge is revealing information about her forthcoming all-dance album, Confessions on a Dancefloor. The first single, the electro-disco-inspired “Hung Up,” is set to drop Oct. 17, with the album hitting stores Nov. 15. (I’ve heard about one minute of "Hung Up" and if...
(19 September 2005) - As with everything Madonna does, she does it with style, creativity and of course a ton of mystery. Step by step, Madge is revealing information about her forthcoming all-dance album, Confessions on a Dancefloor. The first single, the electro-disco-inspired “Hung Up,” is set to drop Oct. 17, with the album hitting stores Nov. 15. (I’ve heard about one minute of "Hung Up" and if...
Ok Go Backyard Video
(28 June 2005) - As described by Ira Glass, Ok Go "is like a boy band that got seduced by Queen and wound up in college instead of Orlando." I just stumbled upon this video for their new single A Million Ways which proves they bring intelligence and wit along with sly synchronization. A little bit indie, a little bit pop, the single has the makings of a...
(28 June 2005) - As described by Ira Glass, Ok Go "is like a boy band that got seduced by Queen and wound up in college instead of Orlando." I just stumbled upon this video for their new single A Million Ways which proves they bring intelligence and wit along with sly synchronization. A little bit indie, a little bit pop, the single has the makings of a...
Clap Your Hands Say Yeah
(22 June 2005) - Clap Your Hands Say Yeah is the five-piece Brooklyn band making internet waves with their 80s-tinged indie pop. Synth melodies, warm basslines, and tight backbeats are a perfect foundation for lead singer Alec Ounsworth's David Byrne-esque lilt. Plus their self-released album is making the term "independent" meaningful again. Thanks to Teva for the heads-up on the dreamy new eponymous album available from Insound. You...
(22 June 2005) - Clap Your Hands Say Yeah is the five-piece Brooklyn band making internet waves with their 80s-tinged indie pop. Synth melodies, warm basslines, and tight backbeats are a perfect foundation for lead singer Alec Ounsworth's David Byrne-esque lilt. Plus their self-released album is making the term "independent" meaningful again. Thanks to Teva for the heads-up on the dreamy new eponymous album available from Insound. You...
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