Nothing But Our Love – Dale Earnhardt Jr. Jr. (Free Download)
Dale Earnhardt Jr. Jr. is definitely a contender for biggest breakout act of CMJ, especially after having made at least seven appearances during the five day festival. They were nothing like I expected yet everything I’d want them to be, doling out utterly irresistible synth-pop complete with pounding drum beats and flawless falsetto harmonies, the likes of which are extremely hard to come by!
No doubt feeding off the anxious excitement of their impending debut album release, Young the Giant stole the upstairs Pianos show with their fearless and energetic acoustic set. This California quintet has perfected a sound so blissful it hurts, melting hearts all over town with their lovesick lyrics and unbelievably beautiful guitar riffs.
A Million Years headlined their final CMJ showcase for The Deli Magazine at Brooklyn’s Spike Hill right before they hopped in a van and headed southward to open for Phoenix in Myrtle Beach. That sort of privileged gig is something these four talented guys have absolutely earned, wielding a catalog of rock solid jams from their album Mischief Maker that come off as both edgy and perfectly polished. It won’t be long before they’re the ones choosing a few deserving up-and-coming bands to support their very own sold out tours.
Performing in venues like Pianos and Music Hall of Williamsburg, Oberhofer is the epitome of indie punk rock. Not only does Oberhofer give a wildly energetic and entertainting performance, but he also has the writing capabilites of someone who has been in the industry for years.
Using only a piano, drums, and guitar, The Jezebels create a sound more interesting, dynamic, and full than most bands with much more. The lyrics and vocals are perhaps what caught my attention most, though. Singer Hayley Mary’s melodies are captivating and thought-provoking, not to mention her range is incredibly impressive. While this band has grown immensely in Australia, I’m excited to see them continue to expand here in the US.
While this band may be most famous for their iPhone apps and YouTube plays, they put on a string of truly excellent performances during CMJ. Commanding the unwavering attention of their audience, this band had people moving, singing, and wanting to hear more. With their album The Moment still gaining momentum, Atomic Tom is poised to grow a lot in 2011.
Nestled between two, more raucous acts, Pearl and the Beard was the perfect way to take a breath and relax on Tuesday. This band, with their quirky banter and astounding harmonies, remains one of my absolute favorites to see perform live. As one friend put it, they have simply created their own genre. I can honestly say that nothing quite matches the simple elegance and undeniable force that Pearl and the Beard brings to the stage.
There was something truly amazing about the sound that echoed through the Brooklyn Vegan party on Friday. With the loft venue’s high echoey ceilings and packed space, The Loom had clearly found the perfect atmosphere for their music. Complete with a collection of brass to compliment the sweet banjo licks and intricate drum patters, this band impressed the hell out of me. They have created their own brand of intelligent and emotive folk music, yet each song sounds distinct from the rest.
Fred Astaire – The So So Glos (Free Download)
The So So Glos played Pianos on the final night of CMJ, which may be why it’s so fresh in my memory. The energy of their punk/pop/indie rock was the shot of adrenaline that I needed during the final stretch of the festival. These dudes don’t try to play into indie trends, delivering exactly what their fans are looking for and more.
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