expect something more {May 16, 2009}

I hate it when my favorite artists show up on television and sound less awesome than they really are. (Liz, all narrow-eyed and heavy-sighed after seeing The National perform "So Far Around the Bend" on Jimmy Fallon last week). I can't remember the last time I was impressed with a performance on a late-night television show, which is why I'm poised and ready to remind everyone of Black Cab Sessions (one song! one take! one cab!) and La Blogotheque, a fantastic website housing acoustic performances by a delicious smattering of indie musicians. French filmmaker Vincent Moon is the largest contributor, and his videos are a pleasure to watch—these beautifully-shot cinematic soirées are intimate and subtley intellectual as well.

Black Cab Session highlights include Lykke Li, Spoon, and Langhorne Slim. But the real gems are over at La Blogotheque. Make sure to check out Andrew Bird, Arcade Fire, Beirut, Sigur Ros, Fleet Foxes, Menomena, Delta Spirit (which was filmed in SF!), and Final Fantasy (I fell in love with him after seeing this clip. Keep in mind that Final Fantasy pens the vast majority of Arcade Fire's orchestral & string arrangements. This makes him a god, alone). But the entire Blogotheque library is impressive, and I've lost more than a few hours of my life browsing through its treasures. Go play!

With that said, it shouldn't come as a surprise that this particular Vincent Moon–captured performance remains a steadfast favorite. O my my, just to be lounging at that table with Matt Berninger & co.—a voluptuous glass of pinot in my palm, clinking its rim as I dream alongside the introspective & like-minded....those who also (maybe) lie awake at night fretting over personal atrocities of mediocrity; those who are also enchanted by things that are communal, fully creative, and without airs.

I simply love The National here. You sort of get the feeling that everyone slept well that night. 

Start a War - The National | purchase  
This is the Dream of Win and Regine - Final Fantasy | purchase  

Comments

[Will]

Thanks for such a warm welcome. It really makes me feel all warm inside to think that people actually look forward to my posts! Honestly it gives me extra motivation to keep the ball rolling!

Anyhow, great post. Both of those series have some mind blowing music footage. I can't get over how well done they are, each and everytime!!!

[Brendan]

Wow Blogotheque does have some gems! I'd never heard of it before. Thanks for helping me find something great.

[Kelly]

Oooh, Final Fantasy. . .how I love Mr. Owen Pallet. . .

If you have not already, you absolutely must see him perform live. Jose and I had the pleasure of doing so one sweltering summer evening where he completely blew us away with his sheer passion and musical genius -- I can still hear his violin resonate and vocals echo as if the show was yesterday. It isn't often that a musician leaves an impression quite like him*

[A. Parker]

I'm so excited to see someone else mention Menomena! I recently guest DJ'd and that was my first song. They have yet to get old to me. Loved the video - great site!

[Angus Andrew]

You clearly forgot the Liars on Blogotheque. Although the National's is probably the best, the Liars are a close second. I mean, come on, an elevator??? That's genius.

[me]

Will, you were missed. We are glad to have you back. As I said, all is right in the blogosphere once more.

And Brendan, make sure to watch the Delta Spirit videos. They are really great. Again, thanks for getting me into that band!

Kelly, I have not seem Owen perform live!!! He maintains a prominent spot in my top 5 of must-see-never-have-seens. He's going to be at the Pitchfork Festival (I think) and I'm seriously considering cashing in my frequent flier miles to go stalk him. He is amazing.

And A., Menomena's Friend and Foe is one of my favorite albums! You're right, you never see people talk about them, it is frustrating. However, it's awesome that you included them in your set. Hopefully, everyone's ears perked up & took note.

And Angus, this is either where I completely agree with you or call you a brat! Hmmm, mister, guess what I'm thinking...