– Josh Linton, staff
Hawksley Workman
From Toronto, this decade old artist is most known for his hit single, “Smoke Baby.” His sound is a diverse glam rock done so well, it would make any listener question why he is relatively unheard. A great contributor to Canadian music, Hawksley has a large enough discography to occupy any music addict for quite awhile. He’s also had his songs featured on several television shows like Scrubs, Falcon Beach, Whistler and Being Human. I recommend listening to “Smoke Baby,” “We’ll Make Time,” and “Jealous of Your Cigarette.”
Blaqk Audio
Anyone remember the 80s band Tears for Fears? If you were into their sound, then you might like electric band Blaqk Audio. Two members from the current band AFI, Davey Havok and Jade Puget have joined together to create a techno sound driven by reverb deep pianos. The band’s next album, Bright Black Heaven, is set to release in the next few months. I recommend listening to “Ill Lit Ships,” “Mute,” and “Stiff Kittens.”
Innerpartysystem
Hipsters! Can I have your attention? You know that mainstream party music you secretly all adore, but refuse to take part in? Innerpartysystem is your new addiction. This unheard electric trio has a techno sound with a full band advantage. As of this past August, the band told their fans that they were now on an indefinite hiatus, with hopes to each pursue their solo careers. I recommend listening to “Lovers Dance (Remix),” “American Trash,” and “Don’t Stop.”
How to Destroy Angels
Trent Reznor, a.k.a Nine Inch Nails, married Mariqueen Maandig of West Indian Girl and joined up a year later with Atticus Ross to create How to Destroy Angels. An industrial sound with melodic and techno elements, their music sounds like Nine Inch Nails with added female vocals. I recommend listening to “The Space In Between,” “BBB,” and “A Drowning.”
Childish Gambino
Donald Glover, actor, writer, comedian, and producer, is also now a rapper. His music is intense, inappropriate, and sexual. His music is good for parties and or just listening to alone, and it’s so clever and quick that it is hard to keep up. Now a series regular on NBC sitcom, Community, Glover is a pro multitasker as his next album Camp is already set to release November 15th, 2011. I recommend “Lights Turned On,” and “Freaks and Geeks.”
