Fans of Prayer of Death should understand that The Entrance Band sounds quite different, occasionally flirting so closely with alt-rock sonic textures that the band’s voice becomes a little less distinctive. Blakeslee is making a conscious effort to explore new directions with this band, whether fans of Prayer of Death agree with it or not, and who can blame him? The Entrance Band will definitely give second thoughts to those fans who painted Blakeslee as a morbid death rocker. But there are times when it’s hard not to miss a little of the menace and danger of Prayer of Death, even as you wish the band all the creative freedom in the world. Sometimes it’s a kick to get spooky, and this album is more groovy than gruesome.

[Read more →]

Sunset Rubdown began as a solo project for Wolf Parade‘s Spencer Krug but quickly evolved into a full band . The music veers from carnival-esque grandeur to pin-drop-quiet beauty. They are currently touring in support of their newest album, Dragonslayer. Tom Child interviews multi-instrumentalist Michael Doerksen.

[Read more →]

The moment that best encapsulates the unique appeal of this band came early in the set. Perry had confessed to a certain trepidation about performing in Los Angeles due to the city’s rumored “seen-it-all” attitude. After one of the songs ended, she asked, “Why am I so scared?” Boeckner walked over, pulled her head to his…they touched faces, perhaps a word or two was whispered, but immediately they returned to the show, both of them seemingly rejuvenated by this brief contact.

[Read more →]

Handsome Furs are husband-and-wife team Dan Boeckner (also in Wolf Parade) and Alexei Perry and their new album Face Control blends classic rock riffs with a techno beat. They have been to many places you have never heard of. Alexei takes time out from a day at the beach to do this interview. This interview by Tom Child.

[Read more →]

Jimi Cabeza De Vaca is the man who climbs the holy mountains in between playing with bands like dios (malos) and Red Cortez. On Sunday, he will conduct his visionary Cabeza De Vaca Arcestra, performing an original live score to the classic Murnau silent Faust at Cinefamily. This interview by Tom Child.

[Read more →]