Interpol's 'Turn on the Bright Lights' Turns 10!

Wow, I can't believe how fast time flies. Ten years ago today New York band Interpol graced the world with their debut album, Turn on the Bright Lights, forever changing the landscape of indie and post-punk modern music. At least for me it did.

I discovered this band back in 2004, so just a couple years later than many others. They were part of the touring line-up for Robert Smith's summer "festival" concert Curiosa which featured acts like Head Automatica and Mogwai. Muse was also a part of this line-up, but prior to the Texas shows, lead singer and guitarist Matthew Bellamy broke his wrist and the band had to quit the tour. Interpol opened for The Cure and although I knew the band's set opener, "Obstacle 1", I was unfamiliar with the complex, emotional lyrics and driving rhythms created by Paul Banks and company that made up the rest of their songs. After hearing "NYC" I was hooked. I went out and bought the album the next day and it has been on heavy rotation in my life ever since.

Interpol has released three more albums since their 2002 debut, but for many, TOTBL still holds the top spot as the true fan favorite. I think the reason it has withstood the test of time is because it came into the world at just the right time and it resonated with so many fans that were ready for what this band had to offer. Plus, former bassist Carlos D. was hot and that certainly didn't hurt.

It was too difficult to choose just one song to mark this special occasion with so I'm posting the entire album. Happy Birthday to a truly spectacular album!

Electric Youth Releases New Single

I fell in love with Electric Youth after watching (and also falling in love with) the movie Drive.  The soundtrack definitely made that movie and Electric Youth's track "A Real Hero" has quickly launched this electro pop band into the spotlight.  Yesterday, they released their new single, "The Best Thing" which was a collaboration with Depeche Mode, Yaz & Erasure founder, Vince Clarke.  The duo plans to work with Clarke on more music once they complete their current tour.  I can only speculate that it will be greatness just as this first single.  Listen for yourself and check out the video for "A Real Hero" below!

Interpol Fans Rejoice! New Paul Banks Album Coming Soon

For those of us that have been longing for some new Interpol material, it can seem like eons since their 2010 self-titled release.  But fret no more, frontman Paul Banks is going to help quench that thirst with a new solo album set to be released October 23rd on Matador Records.  This time around he's dropping the Julien Plenti moniker and is diving head first into this album full of his familiar intensity.  The first single, "The Base", was released via Matador's web site today and it is fantatic!  You can check it out here.  I can't wait for this album and I hope we don't have to wait too long for more Interpol. 


(photo by Helena Christensen)