July 2011
12 posts
Eli ‘Paperboy’ Reed is a Boston native who’s one of the few true soul artists still cranking out hits. In the first video link, Eli pairs with Converse to create a blogotheque style performance in the subways of NYC. The second is a music video for the song ‘Come and Get It”, his single off of his new Capitol Records album. While I think the album is a bit over-produced, there’s no denying he’s got talent.
Previously Eli was paired with Q Division Studios & Records based out of Somerville, in which one day I had to package about 1,000 of his new 7”. Intern days, fun stuff.
Gone to Governors – Eli Paperboy Reed » Converse
Sorry to disappoint, but I’m not talking about the Frank Zappa song. There’s a new(ish) 3 piece kicking around the streets of Boston called Pajama People, and dare I say they might actually be bringing something new to the streets of Allston.
In April 2011, the trio released an ep titled “I like your rugs” consisting of 7 tracks, although personally I’d consider it 4 songs, and 3 short lived interludes. And while I may be shortchanging them on their intermissions, the actual songs are indeed something to write home about.
“Handmedown” is a straight forward catchy song that has substance to it’s laid back style. Perfect for almost any mood, I might say this is the moneymaker out of the bunch.
“Human” draws us in with its minimalist intro and scratchy echoed vocals and climaxes with an impressive vocal showing by keyboardist Lindsay Gordon.
“Getaway” may not draw the most attention the first few times around, but give it time and you’ll see it has more to it than first appearances give off.
In “Secret Handshake”, the group samples a percussion track that feels like a pounding wave, and veers off the beaten path that they have appeared to have laid out for themselves in previous songs. In an impressive vocal effort by all members, the song reminds me of a modern Beatles psych melody, which is a much bigger compliment than it sounds like.
All in all, while I don’t think this EP is going to sweep the nation, it’s a great listen that shows a lot of potential from a newly formed band, and something to definitely watch out for.
Boston’s Spirit Kid is releasing their new EP this weekend over at Brighton Music Hall, and if it weren’t for the Ampere/Sinaloa show, I’d be there in a heartbeat.
The first song on the EP is titled ‘Happiness’, and for good reason. The song is upbeat, catchy, and has vocal melodies that strongly remind me of early Saves The Day (0:39 & 1:39). Can you ask for any better summer jamz? I think not.
Another song I started to record a while ago and never finished. There’s a guitar track of complete fucking around on it, but I’ve had absolutely no motivation to finish it.
