Beck: From Covers to Charlotte Gainsbourg

This may come as old news to dedicated Beck fans, but for those of us who don’t check the singer’s website on a regular basis may be unaware that the eclectic singer-songwriter has covered and recorded the entire Velvet Underground and Nico album which the website calls the Record Club.

The next album set to be covered is Skip Spence’s Oar.

On top of the Record Club section of Beck’s official site, there is also Irrelevant Topics where he speaks to celebrities such as Will Ferrell and Tom Waits.

You can check out the covers, which come with videos as well, on Beck’s official website by clicking here.

On another Beck note, it has been reported that French vocalist and actress Charlotte Gainsbourg worked extensively with Beck on her new album IRM. Beck not only produced the album but also co-wrote several of the tracks and composed most of the music himself.

Unfortunately, IRM will not be released in the US until sometime in January. But if you plan on heading to Europe in late Fall, then be sure to pick this album up which drops overseas on November 30.

- Jessica Cole

Currently Listening to: “Try a Little Tenderness” by Otis Redding

This content is solely the property of The Athens Blur Magazine and may not be re-produced without expressed written consent. The Athens Blur Magazine is an 8 issue/year music & variety publication proud to be based in the Classic City of Athens, Ga. For more information, please contact editorial@athensblur.com

Carrie Underwood's New Album Details

Country-pop sensation Carrie Underwood hasn’t released an album since 2007’s Carnival Ride, but the American Idol has broken her 2-year hiatus with the announcement of a new album to be released on November 3, 2009 entitled, Play On.

The picture above is the official cover to her new record which was produced a large part by Mark Bright, who also worked on Underwood’s previous two albums, USA Today reported.

Max Martin, who worked with the first American Idol winner Kelly Clarkson, was also reported as getting some studio time with Ms. Underwood.

Underwood’s first two albums have gone multi-platinum, the first of which going 7x multi-platinum, and it seems that each one received strong boosts from radio-friendly singles such as Some Heart’s “Before He Cheats” and Carnival Ride’s “So Small.”

If she can drop another tune with just as much sass and strong vocal ability, we may be looking at three multi-platinum records on her resume’, but the ball is in her court.

- Jessica Cole

Currently Listening to: “Chick Habit” by April March

This content is solely the property of The Athens Blur Magazine and may not be re-produced without expressed written consent. The Athens Blur Magazine is an 8 issue/year music & variety publication proud to be based in the Classic City of Athens, Ga. For more information, please contact editorial@athensblur.com

Whitney Prime for a Comeback

R&B songstress and diva extraordinaire Whitney Houston released her new album, I Look To You, today. This album marks Houston’s return to the music scene after a seven year absence.

Houston reached meteoric fame in the ‘80s and ‘90s with songs like “I Will Always Love You” from the “Bodyguard” soundtrack. She also starred in the 1992 film alongside Kevin Costner. It was also in 1992 that Houston married Bobby Brown, then member of R&B group New Edition, and, shall we say, shit got weird.

Houston’s personal life became stranger and stranger with the arrest of her husband and allegations that both she and Brown were using crack cocaine. Who can forget the infamous "Primetime" interview with Diane Sawyer from 2002 in which a raspy-voiced, defensive Houston refuted those drug-use rumors by saying, “I make too much money to ever smoke crack. . . Crack is whack.” Well then.

But Houston is finally starting to smarten up. The former ATLien divorced Brown and moved to L.A. to get her career back on track and record her new album. Hopefully the new and improved Whitney will thrill us once again with her powerful voice – which is what we loved her for in the first place.

The album features tracks called, “I Didn’t Know My Own Strength” and “Worth It,” which makes me think Houston’s feeling empowered. And by the looks of it she’s maybe had some plastic surgery? Whatever it takes, I guess.

I Look To You is available in stores and on iTunes now.

-Kristen Callihan
currently listening to “My Valuable Hunting Knife” by Guided By Voices

This content is solely the property of The Athens Blur Magazine and may not be re-produced without expressed written consent. The Athens Blur Magazine is an 8 issue/year music & variety publication proud to be based in the Classic City of Athens, Ga. For more information, please contact editorial@athensblur.com

Kurt Cobain, the Newest Guitar Hero

The popular video game Guitar Hero allows every regular girl and guy to live out their rock star fantasy . . . sorta. Now, those among us with a little extra angst and an extensive cardigan collection have a GH character with which they can identify – Nirvana front man Kurt Cobain.

As everyone in the free world who was born before 1990 probably knows, Cobain, frontrunner of the early ‘90s grunge movement, was a troubled man who ultimately took his own life. His usual attire was an old pair of jeans, a ratty t-shirt and a wooly cardigan – not exactly the look of someone who revels in their rock star status. So the thought of a virtual Cobain guiding the masses through their button-smashing version of playing guitar seems, well, wrong. Would the introverted grunge god really want to be immortalized in avatar form? I doubt it.

But will players of the new Guitar Hero 5 enjoy playing “Smells Like Teen Spirit” and “Lithium?” Definitely.

Cobain’s widow (and notable crazy person) Courtney Love, former Nirvana drummer Dave Grohl and Primary Wave Publishing (administrators of the Nirvana catalogue) all had to sign off in order for Cobain to be included in GH5.

Guitar Hero 5 will be released tomorrow, September 1.

-Kristen Callihan
currently listening to “Two Weeks” by Grizzly Bear

This content is solely the property of The Athens Blur Magazine and may not be re-produced without expressed written consent. The Athens Blur Magazine is an 8 issue/year music & variety publication proud to be based in the Classic City of Athens, Ga. For more information, please contact editorial@athensblur.com

ISSUE 10 NOW AVAILABLE ONLINE!

Issue 10 is now posted online! Click the cover to read the full thing:




Inside this issue...

COVER STORY!

Heart In Hand: After an eight year absence, an energized Circulatory System returns with a new album

Features:

Seeing Ghosts: Acclaimed electronic duo Zero 7 gets gaunted on album number four

Ignoring The Hare: Inspiration be damned — Tortoise soldiers on

When You're Hot: Bradley Cooper explains his sizzling ride through Hollywood

Life at the Speed of Tweet: The latest social media outlet is changing the music industry, for better or for worse

Venue Ventures: Four clubs lead the way into a changing face of music spots in Athens

Music Spotlights:

These Unites States, Tyrone Jackson, Mad Whiskey Grin, Blake Shelton, Blitzen Trapper, Meiko, The Delfields, Trances Arc, Janelle Monae

Come check out the new issue at Terrapin Brewery on Friday, September 4th @ 5:30, featuring live music from Dodd Ferrelle!

Chris Brown Still Loves RiRi…Domestic What?

Leave it to Chris Brown to make us hate him even more in his attempt to reconcile his name and his rap career. During an appearance on Larry King, Brown decided the best route to go was the amnesia claim.

Brown told King that he didn’t remember using violence against Rhianna and doesn’t recall the night in which this tragic incident occurred. Forget the fact that he pleaded guilty to the charges against him and is now serving out a sentencing of 120 hours of hard labor, 5 years of probation, and a hefty distance between him and Rhianna at all times.

In the Larry King interview teaser clip, Brown states, “When I hear about the police reports, I don’t know what to think. That’s not who I am as a person. It’s like crazy to me.” That is pretty crazy; considering you plead guilty to beating Rhianna, which makes you who you are, a guy with violence issues.

Verdict: amnesia claim was NOT the way to go. However, maybe in the full interview Brown will actually take some blame for what he should remember doing to his girlfriend, Rhianna.

To get the full story—which I fear might not be more than state above—watch the interview on Larry King, September 2.

-Marie Baginski
Currently listening to “Take A Bow” by Rhianna

This content is solely the property of The Athens Blur Magazine and may not be re-produced without expressed written consent. The Athens Blur Magazine is an 8 issue/year music & variety publication proud to be based in the Classic City of Athens, Ga. For more information, please contact editorial@athensblur.com

Taylor Swift Awed by MSG Crowd

When Taylor Swift performed at Madison Square Garden, she expected the screaming teens, her signature heart hand-sign, and an uber large crowd…but our emotions take us all by surprise at times.

After performing “McGraw” the loving reception Swift received was multiplied and she could not believe her eyes—or her ears. Swift actually stood for two whole minutes in absolute shock (they caught this on tape) holding back tears and covering her face in disbelief. The young, beautiful, talented songstress was hit with the absolute amazement of what she has become. A superstar.

According to Rolling Stone, when Swift finally spoke she shakily held back tears while admitting, “As long as I live…I will never forget what you just did for me.”

Taylor Swift is one of my favorite artists to date. I don’t love country, and I’m not all about really young singers blowing up in the limelight (uhem The Jonas Brothers, Miley Cyrus, etc.). But Swift maintains a humble quality that makes me just want to squeeze her out of pure happiness. Oh, and her voice is the purest of honey even when she is dishing heartfelt lyrics about relationships gone wrong. View this clip and tell me you don’t want to do the same.

-Marie Baginski
Currently listening to "Flume" by Bon Iver

This content is solely the property of The Athens Blur Magazine and may not be re-produced without expressed written consent. The Athens Blur Magazine is an 8 issue/year music & variety publication proud to be based in the Classic City of Athens, Ga. For more information, please contact editorial@athensblur.com

Rainn Wilson: Musical Advisor

If you know Rainn Wilson, then you know he is an actor who is most notably recognized for his role as Dwight Schrute on NBC’s The Office.

Wilson is also an avid Tweeter who most recently has taken on the reputation for meddling in musical affairs.

Take for example his role in Weezer’s 7^th Studio album, Raditude, which is set to release on October 27.

[Rainn Wilson] has a super-rock persona,” Weezer frontman Rivers Cuomo told Pitchfork. “When it came time to find a title for the Weezer album, I asked him what he thought the ultimate album title would be, and he said 'Raditude'."

Seems like a very elementary name for a band’s seventh LP, but okay, we will let this one slide.

But now, Wilson has made another suggestion concerning the recent break up of Oasis via his Twitter page. He wrote,“Liam. You should grab Ryan Adams. He does y’alls songs better.”

He followed the message with a link to Adams’ cover of “Wonderwall” (which is a pretty “rad” cover if I do say so myself).

So, maybe Wilson’s suggestions aren’t all bad, and his tweets, if not insightful, are quite entertaining:

“When teleported don't ask 'Where are we?' because someone will always reply cryptically- "you mean... WHEN are we??"

Good advice Rainn.

- Jessica Cole

Currently Listening to: “Redemption Song” by Bob Marley

This content is solely the property of The Athens Blur Magazine and may not be re-produced without expressed written consent. The Athens Blur Magazine is an 8 issue/year music & variety publication proud to be based in the Classic City of Athens, Ga. For more information, please contact editorial@athensblur.com

Black Lips Incite Stage Swarm

The Black Lips, the Atlanta band whose outrageous on-stage antics have previously gotten them banned from the legendary 40 Watt Club in Athens, have done it again, inciting a large stage swarm at the Leeds Festival in the United Kingdom.

During the band’s final song, “Juvenile,” the band told audience members to come up on stage with them.

What ensued was a massive stage riot with screaming and dancing fans kissing the band members as they continued on with their song.

Extra security guards were summoned, and they proceeded to push fans back into the photo pit to clear the stage.

The bands entire set was mostly fueled by tracks from their 2009 release, 200 Million Thousand, but they mixed in a few older songs such as “O Katrina” and “Sea of Blasphemy.”

To add to the band’s intoxicatingly wild performance, guitarist Cole Alexander told the crowd, “Take Brian Wilson’s penis out of your mouth. You've been digging on him too long” and also entertained fans with his popular “spit in the air and catch it in his mouth” trick.

Today (August 30) was the last day of 72-hour festival, and what better way to end it than with the insanity of Georgia’s own rowdy and unpredictable rockers. You’re welcome UK.

- Jessica Cole

Currently Listening to: True Blood. My roommate is watching it in the other room.

This content is solely the property of The Athens Blur Magazine and may not be re-produced without expressed written consent. The Athens Blur Magazine is an 8 issue/year music & variety publication proud to be based in the Classic City of Athens, Ga. For more information, please contact editorial@athensblur.com

Noel's no longer mad fer it...

Oasis is not the greatest band in rock 'n' roll. Okay, that's out of the way. Now let's review: Noel has gone and quit. Again.

The troubling - or at least puzzling - part of Oasis' 2009 breakup is the completely transparent and utterly inexplicable reason. Noel claims the "verbal and violent intimidation towards [him]" as the most recent catalyst and, while not going so far as to put the origin of the that on his brother, claims that he couldn't work with Liam "one day longer."

This is where we all let out a collective "NO SHIT!" Honestly, is this supposed to be a surprise? Oasis has made a living off strife, intimidation, confusion, turmoil. Noel and Liam have never been able to stand each other - simultaneously creating a publicist's nightmare and a critic's dream. Oasis is a great link to the past in that very regard - they've always made their best music during the worst periods of inter-band upheaval (think of the Beatles - McCartney and Lennon could hardly be in the same room as early as the making of Sgt. Pepper, let alone Abbey Road and Let it Be).

Rock 'n' roll isn't supposed to be pretty, particularly when brothers are involved. But it works. It always works, and in Oasis' case, it worked to the tune of a #1 record in the UK each and every time they left the studio with a finished product. Never - not once - did the band fail to produce a platinum record (their worst efforts went 2x platinum, their best went as high as 14x). Live, this is a band who's attitude essentially said "screw you and your $60 ticket" to arenas full of fans, only to sell out a bigger arena the next time around.

This breakup is a little scarier than those previous - rumors have been rampant for months that Noel was looking for an out, yearning to find a new outlet and didn't plan on recording a record with Oasis again for a few years (according to rock folklore, this is okay: every band is allowed a hiatus. Or two, or three...).

We (Americans between the ages of 15-23) have been trained to not really care about Oasis. "Wonderwall" is for high school dances, "Don't Look Back in Anger" has been reduced to a bar sing-along. But if Oasis is really done, think of the Brit-rock we're left with: Coldplay is its own joke and punchline. Muse is on minute 16 of their 15. Arctic Monkeys came out with a bang but are fading fast. Kasabian is, well, hopeless. Jack White, despite his best efforts, is American. If not for Radiohead, Rod Stewart could make a serious run at the title of England's best current musical export.

We don't need Oasis, but we could certainly use them. They were not always flashy, not always great (not always even that good) - but they were always reliable. You always knew what you were destined to get. Oasis is not the greatest band in rock 'n' roll history, but they made us "mad fer it" - mad fer it - for a long, long time. They led the Brit charge of our lifetime and, damnit, I'd love to see them finish it.

I've been writing for about 16 minutes, so odds are good that I refresh my web browser, the band is already back together, having a pint and drowning their hatred to write another great record. Here's hoping.

- Alec Wooden

DJ A.M. Dead at 36

Breaking news about DJ A.M., born Adam Goldstein, has been flooding the Internet. Reports say A.M. was found in his apartment and pronounced dead on the scene by medical staff. Updates by law officials state that drug paraphernalia—often associated with crack cocaine—was found near him in his apartment.

As far as I was aware, A.M. had been a recovering drug addict and had enlisted in drug prevention programs to help others stay sober. According to Perez Hilton, A.M. had been depressed lately and unfortunately, it seems, he turned to drugs to cope.

I think John Mayer says it best in a recent tweet that I can only assume is about the tragic death of DJ A.M.: “We're supposed to lose our friends to time, at an age when we're ready to agree to the terms of having lived a long life. Not now.”

My thoughts are with everyone who knew and loved him. His talent and presence will be greatly missed.

-Marie Baginski
Currently listening to “The Drugs Don’t Work” by Ben Harper

This content is solely the property of The Athens Blur Magazine and may not be re-produced without expressed written consent. The Athens Blur Magazine is an 8 issue/year music & variety publication proud to be based in the Classic City of Athens, Ga. For more information, please contact editorial@athensblur.com

Foo Fighters Record New Songs for Greatest Hits Disc

The Foo Fighters’ fifteenth birthday is fast approaching. How do they want to celebrate? By making something for us. On November 3 they’ll release Foo Fighters Greatest Hits. The album will include two new tracks, (in addition to the great hits) called “Word Forward" and "Wheels." "All My Life," "Everlong," "Learn To Fly" and "Best Of You" are just a few of the other Foo songs featured on the album.

Currently the band’s members are all working on different projects, with no immediate plans for an album of new material. Front man Dave Grohl is working alongside former members of Led Zeppelin and Queens of the Stone Age in a new band called Them Crooked Vultures. Their debut album is due out in October.

Foo’s bassist Nate Mendel is preparing to tour with his band, Sunny Day Real Estate. Their tour starts September 17 in Vancouver and will hit ATL October 3 at Center Stage.

-Kristen Callihan
currently listening to “I Am Happy” by Casper and the Cookies

This content is solely the property of The Athens Blur Magazine and may not be re-produced without expressed written consent. The Athens Blur Magazine is an 8 issue/year music & variety publication proud to be based in the Classic City of Athens, Ga. For more information, please contact editorial@athensblur.com

Oh There You Are, Kris Allen

American Idol winner, Kris Allen, has posted an official release date for his first album via Twitter. Now available for preorder, the date when Allen’s album hits stores is set for November 17th. All the hype since the culmination of Idol has been about the openly gay, glitter-wearing finalist, Adam Lambert. But now it’s Allen’s time to shine.

Not only was his performance on Idol exceptional, Allen has collaborated with some real industry talent for his first time around. According to Billboard.com, he has recorded with The Fray’s Joe King; worked with songwriters for Akon, Leona Lewis, Amy Winehouse, Kelly Clarkson, and Daughtry; and held writing sessions with Toby Gad.

Not to name drop, but from this list I’m expecting good things for this album. I can’t wait to see what Allen has in store for his millions of fans.

Don’t forget to grab a copy on November 17th. Or preorder a copy now at Amazon.com.

-Marie Baginski
Currently listening to “Is This It" by Kate Walsh

This content is solely the property of The Athens Blur Magazine and may not be re-produced without expressed written consent. The Athens Blur Magazine is an 8 issue/year music & variety publication proud to be based in the Classic City of Athens, Ga. For more information, please contact editorial@athensblur.com

Modern Skirts and Heypenny at Vinyl

Athens darlings the Modern Skirts and Nashville power poppers Heypenny played a show at Vinyl in Atlanta last night.

Even though the Skirts don’t draw as big of a crowd in ATL as they do in ATH, everyone was enjoying the show. They played several new songs, keeping the crowd entertained with John Swint channeling a member of the high school drum line while beating on a bass drum and front man Jay Gulley gesticulating off the stage and into the crowd with a tambourine. The Skirts were having some minor sound issues, but other than that they seemed to be having fun playing their upbeat indie pop tunes such as “Eveready” and “Radio Breaks.”

After the Skirts came the high-energy performance from Heypenny. They came on stage donning costumes that were half robot, half Ninja Turtle, and I knew the performance would be interesting. And Heypenny didn’t disappoint. They added walls of sound to their keyboard/guitar/bass/drums quartet with a two-man horn/tambourine section and two funky fly backup singers. They all worked together to create a kind of quirky retro pop on songs like “Oh No.” I must say that the highlight of Heypenny’s performance was their cover of Beyonce’s “Single Ladies,” which had the crowd – including the Skirts’ Gulley – laughing, bouncing around and singing along.

Both bands put on a great show as part of last night BMI music showcase. The Modern Skirts play the 40 Watt in Athens this Saturday night with The Love Language and ExcaliBrah. I advise you to check it out.

-Kristen Callihan
currently listening to “Oh No” by Heypenny

This content is solely the property of The Athens Blur Magazine and may not be re-produced without expressed written consent. The Athens Blur Magazine is an 8 issue/year music & variety publication proud to be based in the Classic City of Athens, Ga. For more information, please contact editorial@athensblur.com

Official Trailer for Tim Burton's 'Alice'

As a journalism major, teachers constantly preach how important it is to stay objective. I try to stick to this rule as much as possible, and in blogging there is a little more leeway, but let me just say O.M.G.!! Have you seen the new trailer for Tim Burton’s Alice in Wonderland?

The film stars Johnny Depp as the Mad Hatter and Helena Bonham Carter as the Queen of Hearts. And from what I’ve seen so far, it looks like Disney’s new film might just live up to Lewis Carroll’s classic novel, a feat that has not yet been accomplished.

Oh, and it’s also in 3D.

Check it out on Youtube by clicking on the link below.

Alice In Wonderland Official Trailer

- Jessica Cole

Currently Listening to: “Smoke Detector” by Rilo Kiley

This content is solely the property of The Athens Blur Magazine and may not be re-produced without expressed written consent. The Athens Blur Magazine is an 8 issue/year music & variety publication proud to be based in the Classic City of Athens, Ga. For more information, please contact editorial@athensblur.com

Jeeeesus, Madonna, Stop Whoring Out Your Loved Ones

Madonna’s new video “Celebration” has just about everyone in her immediate family including her model boyfriend, Jesus Luz, dancing to the beat. Literally. Daughter, Lourdes, and boy-toy, Jesus, are making their musical debut and getting their 15 seconds of face time in Madonna’s newest video. It makes sense, considering with Madonna’s current skeleton arms and aging neck, she might not be around much longer. How old is she, anyway?

I love Madonna, I do. But it just really isn’t cool anymore—if it ever was—to have your family members and boyfriend in your music videos. Check out Jesus’ desperate attempt to spin the tables in this preview clip of “Celebration.”

A word of advice for Madonna: don’t turn into the Osmonds.

-Marie Baginski
Currently listening to “Two Weeks” by Grizzly Bear

This content is solely the property of The Athens Blur Magazine and may not be re-produced without expressed written consent. The Athens Blur Magazine is an 8 issue/year music & variety publication proud to be based in the Classic City of Athens, Ga. For more information, please contact editorial@athensblur.com

Green Day Re-Release Discography on Vinyl

Their most recent album, 21^st Century Breakdown, went Gold, the first single from that album, “Know Your Enemy” hit number 1 on the Billboard Alternative Chart and the entire record hit number 1 on the Billboard 200, so it seems, Rolling Stone’s favorite ‘90s punk outfit, Green Day, are having a good year.

In response to the band’s success and popularity, it has been announced that Green Day’s entire discography, from 1990’s 39/Smooth to 2009’s 21^st Century Breakdown, will be re-released on vinyl.

On top of the full album releases, Warner Brothers/Reprise Records will be releasing each of the band’s singles on 7” vinyl as well.

Some of these singles include ‘90s classics like “When I Come Around,” “Basket Case,” and “Good Riddance (Time of Your Life)” to ‘00s hits like “American Idiot” and “Boulevard of Broken Dreams.”

A limited edition box set of their 7” singles will also be released from the band’s label.

For all of those Rolling Stone Magazine, Green Day, Eyeliner and ‘90s punk fans out there, here are some great items to add to your pending Christmas wish-list!

- Jessica Cole

Currently Listening to: “Deceptacon” by Le Tigre

This content is solely the property of The Athens Blur Magazine and may not be re-produced without expressed written consent. The Athens Blur Magazine is an 8 issue/year music & variety publication proud to be based in the Classic City of Athens, Ga. For more information, please contact editorial@athensblur.com

"The Dream" Come True: R&B Artist Scores EVP Position

Singer-Songwriter Terius Nash, also known as The Dream, has just announced he will be taking over as Executive Vice President of Island Records.

Since this announcement, there has been much confusion as to whether Nash will be replacing current Def Jam EVP Chris Hicks.

The rumors were cleared up by Nash on his Twitter page:

“I did not replace him At DEF JAM he’s the EVP of DEF JAM RECORDS and I AM EVP of ISLAND RECORDS…. To all being negative is out of style!”

Those of you who only know of The Dream as the R&B artist who sings “Shawty is the Shit,” are probably wondering why the 27-year-old singer has been given such a high profile position. After all, he’s just a singer, right?

Actually, Nash was responsible for writing Rihanna’s 2007 mega-hit “Umbrella,” and was nominated for a Grammy in the category, Song of the Year. He was beat out by Amy Winehouse’s “Rehab”, but the nomination alone gave the accomplished songwriter an even bigger career boost.

Nash has also released two solo albums, the most recent being Love Vs. Money, which was released in March 2009.

He also helped produce Beyonce’s “Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)” as well as two other tracks from the R&B queen.

Those are just a few of young Nash’s accomplishments, so it seems as if his resume’ stacks up, but can he help boost the success of Island Records?

Only time will tell, but if in the near future you see 3LW’s Adrienne Bailon skyrocket to fame and the top of the charts, then The Dream must be doing SOMETHING right.

- Jessica Cole

Currently Listening to: “Twisted Nerve” by Bernarm Herm

This content is solely the property of The Athens Blur Magazine and may not be re-produced without expressed written consent. The Athens Blur Magazine is an 8 issue/year music & variety publication proud to be based in the Classic City of Athens, Ga. For more information, please contact editorial@athensblur.com

See MGMT, Santogold, Against Me! and More for FREE

After a long summer of music festivals across the map, and forking out $100 or more on tickets to see these events, the label/ad agency, Cornerstone Promotions, has come along and given music fans a big sigh of relief with the free, let me repeat, FREE Soul Collective Tour (No not the ‘90s rock group, though that would be cool too).

Big names in the college radio scene such as MGMT, The Silversun Pickups and The Walkmen are scheduled to rock this 10-city venture across the States. Other artists scheduled to perform are: Against Me!, Major Lazer, The Clipse, The Maine, Santogold, No Age, The Miniature Tigers, Dear and The Headlights, The Pains of Being Pure at Heart, The Secret Machines, Times New Viking and Dan Deacon.

So, here’s the catch. The only way you can gain access to this free tour is by test-driving a Kia-Soul one of the three days prior to the show.

Soul Collective began on August 20, in Seattle, Wash., and is currently underway in Phoenix, Ariz.

Here are the remaining dates:

Chicago, Ill. - Event Space (September 10-13)
Washington, DC - Warehouse (17-20)
Philadelphia, Pa. - 23rd Street Armory (24-27)
Miami, Fla. - Awarehouse (October 1-4)
Atlanta, Ga. - Ambient Plus Studios (8-11)
Boston, Mass. - AFH (15-18)
New York , N.Y. - TBD (22-25)
Los Angeles, Calif. - Siren Studios (November 5-8)

To find out more about the Soul Collective Tour and about Cornerstone Promotions visit Cornerstonepromotion.com.

- Jessica Cole

Currently Listening to: The Jittery Joe’s Barista’s play-list. (Good Taste! And coffee.)

This content is solely the property of The Athens Blur Magazine and may not be re-produced without expressed written consent. The Athens Blur Magazine is an 8 issue/year music & variety publication proud to be based in the Classic City of Athens, Ga. For more information, please contact editorial@athensblur.com

A Picture is Worth … $25,000 Big Ones to John Mayer

I have made the mistake of following John Mayer on Twitter. The new phenomenon that is the social media outlet, Twitter, has officially connected stars like Mayer to your average Joe through only 140 characters of text. For those of you who follow Mayer, you will realize why it is a mistake. He tweets way too much for a celebrity that should be busy writing music and doing other celebrity things.

But every once in a while, between his ominous “I’m trying to write (insert song title)” and comments on what food he has just eaten, Mayer actually says something worth reading. Today, as I scanned my Twitter homepage, I saw that he intended to give 25,000 to a charity chosen by whom ever posted his 2001 mug shot first. He was prompted by the recent mug shot of Fall Out Boy’s Patrick Stump. Though the request was a little juvenile, the thought was heartwarming.

I love it when big stars dish out big cash to charity for stupid things like mug shots. It makes me realize just how depressing it is to have $10 left until the end of this month with rent due tomorrow. Oh, to be a millionaire.

-Marie Baginski
Currently listening to “I Had To Do It” by Allison Weiss

This content is solely the property of The Athens Blur Magazine and may not be re-produced without expressed written consent. The Athens Blur Magazine is an 8 issue/year music & variety publication proud to be based in the Classic City of Athens, Ga. For more information, please contact editorial@athensblur.com

Christmas According to Dylan

Bob Dylan and Christmas carols. It’s the most wonderful time of the year. Dylan will release his first holiday album, Christmas in the Heart, on October 13.

If you like the old Christmas favorites (that are seemingly impossible to escape the month between Thanksgiving and December 25), then you’ll probably like this album. Classics such as “Little Drummer Boy,” “Winter Wonderland” and “Here Comes Santa Clause” will be among other tracks on the record.

In a very Santa Clause-esque gesture, Dylan plans to donate the album’s U.S. royalties to Feeding America, a charity that works to relieve hunger in the U.S. So buying this album should give you a little holiday cheer.

Looks like we’ll all have to shelve that old “I Want a Hippopotamus For Christmas” tape this year.

-Kristen Callihan
currently listening to “Bled White” by Elliot Smith

This content is solely the property of The Athens Blur Magazine and may not be re-produced without expressed written consent. The Athens Blur Magazine is an 8 issue/year music & variety publication proud to be based in the Classic City of Athens, Ga. For more information, please contact editorial@athensblur.com

Death Cab For Cutie: Hop on the Vampire Bandwagon

Everybody, including myself, seems to have a fascination these days with the perpetually undead. Since the onset of Stephenie Meyer’s Twilight the obsession with blood-sucking predators—or in Twilight’s case, very experienced deer hunters—has become a phenomenon worldwide.

Death Cab For Cutie is just one more band that has been sucked into this ongoing fiasco. The band sings the lead single "Meet Me on the Equinox," for the second film Twilight Saga: New Moon.

According to MTV, bassist Nick Harmer notes that though the collaboration seems bizarre, he thinks a lot of their “songs in general concern a lot of the things the main characters in the books are going through: There's a lot of stuff about relationships beginning and ending, and the questioning that happens around being in love and falling out of love.” Sounds to me like Twilight Saga: New Moon has met a perfect match.

The premiere of the song will be on September 13th, at the MTV Video Music Awards. Until then, Twihards, get your hopes up—this is going to be a good one.

-Marie Baginski
Currently Listening to "Flightless Bird, American Mouth" by Iron & Wine

This content is solely the property of The Athens Blur Magazine and may not be re-produced without expressed written consent. The Athens Blur Magazine is an 8 issue/year music & variety publication proud to be based in the Classic City of Athens, Ga. For more information, please contact editorial@athensblur.com

Brian Epstein Biopic in the Making

David Permut, producer of 2008’s Charlie Bartlett, has just been confirmed by Variety Magazine to be taking the reigns on, “A Life in the Day” an upcoming movie which profiles the life of Beatles’ Manager, Brian Epstein.

Epstein discovered and managed the Beatles from 1961 to 1967, and died at age 32 from a drug overdose.

The script was written by Tony Gittelson, who has worked as assistant director on tv shows such as Veronica Mars and Heroes.

Producers Steve Longi (who also worked on Charlie Bartlett) and Chris Mangano will also be on board as co-producers.

In an interview, Permut explained that he will try to put as many Beatles’ songs in the film as possible, but at its core, the plot will focus more on the bands formation rather than their explosive career.

"Everybody turned down the band,” said Permut, “even though Brian promised they would become bigger than Elvis, and he finally got George Martin at EMI to change his mind and give them an audition.”

Permut has also just completed two films in which he acted as producer: Dimension Films’ “Youth in Revolt,” a comedy starring Michael Cera and “Prayers for Bobby,” a Lifetime film starring Sigourney Weaver.

- Jessica Cole

Currently Listening to: “Flowers on the Wall” by The Satler Brothers

This content is solely the property of The Athens Blur Magazine and may not be re-produced without expressed written consent. The Athens Blur Magazine is an 8 issue/year music & variety publication proud to be based in the Classic City of Athens, Ga. For more information, please contact editorial@athensblur.com

Hip Hop Giants Collaborate

An epic track from rap superstars Eminem, Lil Wayne, Kanye West and newcomer Drake was released this week. This is one of the biggest collaborations of rap giants in recent history, and all four artists bring their best - with Eminem even threatening to go all Hannibal Lecter on us.

“Forever” is over six minutes long and will be featured in the upcoming documentary “More than a Game” about Cleveland Cavaliers baller LeBron James. Only King James could bring together these four forces of hip hop.

The soundtrack for “More than a Game” comes out on September 29, but you can listen to the track online now. “More than a game,” directed by Kristopher Belman, hits theaters October 2.

-Kristen Callihan
currently listening to the silence of the library

This content is solely the property of The Athens Blur Magazine and may not be re-produced without expressed written consent. The Athens Blur Magazine is an 8 issue/year music & variety publication proud to be based in the Classic City of Athens, Ga. For more information, please contact editorial@athensblur.com

Oh Lourdes, It's a “Celebration”

Madonna’s got something to celebrate. Not only is she dating someone named Jesus—I won’t go there—but she is now going to expose her 12-year-old daughter, Lourdes, to the masses in the video for her new single “Celebration.” Let’s see how much I don’t think this is a good idea.

First off, Lourdes is far too young to be acting so grown up. Not only is she adapting Mad’s sense of style, but also pretty soon she’ll be dating 23-year-olds, just like Mom—okay I went there. Be careful or Lourdes will turn out with the mentality of Britney Spear’s, the plastic surgery habits of Tara Reid, and the party habits of, well, Tara Reid.

Secondly, don’t you think a good parent would let Lourdes find her own path to fame? Lourdes wants to be just like Madonna, I’m sure, but I just don’t think she’s fully realizing her options. Superstardom, though the dream of most little girls, doesn’t seem to have had good effects on the child stars of the past.

Perhaps it’s only an innocent gesture that Madonna wants to get more media for her biological kids than those from countries abroad. In that case, keep a close eye Madonna, and don’t let Lourdes turn Lohan.

The video for “Celebration,” will be released this week. Madonna: Celebration - The Definitive Greatest Hits Collection arrives September 29th.

-Marie Baginski
Currently Listening to “Still Ness in the Move” by Dirty Projectors

This content is solely the property of The Athens Blur Magazine and may not be re-produced without expressed written consent. The Athens Blur Magazine is an 8 issue/year music & variety publication proud to be based in the Classic City of Athens, Ga. For more information, please contact editorial@athensblur.com

Kings of Leon Get Remixed

The Kings of Leon seem to be everywhere these days, and with their latest album, Only by the Night, going platinum in the US and six times platinum in the UK, the Tennessee boys are embarking on their next musical venture: A remix album.

Though, the idea for the album wasn’t initially thought up by the Followill brothers, rather, the band found out that N.E.R.D’s Pharrell Williams as well as Justin Timberlake had already begun remixing their songs.

"It's neat to have these people who we would've jumped at the chance to work with ourselves...coming to us before we even get a chance to ask them," Nathan Followill told Billboard. "It's amazing to hear your song played by these people who are so creative. Most of the time it takes me two or three listens to even wrap my head around, 'Oh man, that's our song...'”

Along with Williams and Timberlake, artists and creative minds such as Mark Ronson, Kenna, Lykke Li and Linkin Park are also taking part in the remixing process.

In other KOL news, the boys are prepping a DVD release that will feature one of their shows at London’s O2 Arena earlier this summer.

"England is really the first place we broke...We figured what better place to make a live DVD than where the fans have been the craziest for the longest?" explained the Kings drummer.

As for a new album with brand new songs, KOL already have about 10 new songs they have been “kicking around.”

"The new stuff is all over the place. I call it 'Aha Shake...' but by guys that are a little grown-up and a little better at their instruments.” Nathan said. “There's stuff that sounds like Radiohead. There's stuff that sounds like Thin Lizzy. There's stuff that sounds like The Band. We're pretty much to the point now where...we can be experimental and try stuff we would've been scared to death to try on the first couple of records. Now we find ourselves being a little more adventurous."

Currently, there have been no announcements confirming the release dates of the remix album, DVD or new album, but stay tuned. . . .

- Jessica Cole

Currently Listening to: “Jeepster” by T-Rex

This content is solely the property of The Athens Blur Magazine and may not be re-produced without expressed written consent. The Athens Blur Magazine is an 8 issue/year music & variety publication proud to be based in the Classic City of Athens, Ga. For more information, please contact editorial@athensblur.com

Songwriter Ellie Greenwich Passes Away

Influential songwriter Ellie Greenwich passed away today from a heart attack while being treated for pneumonia in a New York hospital. She was 68.

Greenwich’s song credits include many huge hits from the 1960s including “Chapel of Love,” “Leader of the Pack,” “Da Doo Ron Ron” and the holiday classic “Christmas (Baby Please Come Home).”

In 1968 Greenwich released her own album, Ellie Greenwich Composes, Produces and Sings, and in 1991 she was inducted into the Songwriters’ Hall of Fame. Greenwich was also influential in the early career of Neil Diamond and sang backup for Frank Sinatra. The Broadway musical Leader of the Pack, which debuted in 1985, was based on her life and featured many of the popular songs she helped to create.

Greenwich’s family has asked for any donations in her honor to be made to VH1’s Save the Music Foundation.

-Kristen Callihan
currently listening to "Golden Age" by TV on the Radio

This content is solely the property of The Athens Blur Magazine and may not be re-produced without expressed written consent. The Athens Blur Magazine is an 8 issue/year music & variety publication proud to be based in the Classic City of Athens, Ga. For more information, please contact editorial@athensblur.com

Patrick Stump is a Bad (Fall Out) Boy

Frump Stump was arrested this past Monday late night because Fall Out Boy’s frontman decided “rock stars” don’t have to go to court. Wrong. Even Paris Hilton has to go to court.

After he was given a traffic citation for driving without a license, Stump failed to appear in court and thus got the cuffs slapped on and took a vacay to West Hollywood Sheriff’s station.

This little trip wasn’t without a hefty fee of $15,000 bail.

Ouch. Best be a good (Fall Out) Boy from now on, Stump. Get a license and a clue. Even the famous are not above the law…most of the time.

Want to catch Fall Out Boy doing something legal? Catch them on the Blink-182 Summer Tour. Check the dates here.

-Marie Baginski
Currently Listening to “Ain’t No Rest for the Wicked” by Cage The Elephant

This content is solely the property of The Athens Blur Magazine and may not be re-produced without expressed written consent. The Athens Blur Magazine is an 8 issue/year music & variety publication proud to be based in the Classic City of Athens, Ga. For more information, please contact editorial@athensblur.com

Tegan and Sara Album, Tour

Indie songbirds and twin sisters Tegan and Sara generated excitement amongst fans by releasing the cover art and track list for their new album, Sainthood. The album, due out October 27, is the follow-up to 2007’s critically acclaimed The Con.

The Canadian duo also announced the first three dates of their U.S. fall tour, which kicks off October 25 in L.A. The two other shows announced will take place in New York. Here’s hoping they announce more dates soon – and bring the tour to ATL or ATH.

Sainthood features 13 tracks, with titles such as “The Cure,” “Alligator” and “Sentimental Tune.”

For an extra dose of Tegan and Sara, check out steroegum.com and listen to their collaboration with DJ Tiesto. Their vocals are featured on Tiesto’s new album, Kaleidoscope, on the track “Feel It In My Bones.” T & S will also be featured in the video, which involves dancing and lazerish lights – cool.

-Kristen Callihan
currently listening to “Back In Your Head” by Tegan and Sara

This content is solely the property of The Athens Blur Magazine and may not be re-produced without expressed written consent. The Athens Blur Magazine is an 8 issue/year music & variety publication proud to be based in the Classic City of Athens, Ga. For more information, please contact editorial@athensblur.com