The first installment in our "Viva Goes Dutch" mini-extravaganza, circa CMJ '09 - The Hospital Bombers. This Amsterdam-based outfit came across from the Netherlands to play the Viva/Subbacultcha/Pukekos showcase amongst other great live opportunities, rolling deep with the likes of The Moi Non Plus even though their respective sounds couldn't be any more different.

Fronted by A'dam groovster Jan Schenk, the group play pop songs that are quite breezy and rich and melody, qualities that are definitely enhanced by Suzanne's violin lines. With a short set of 4 songs that went down rather appropriately in our stripped down setting, the session was rounded out by the playful, dry sense of humor so inherent in the Dutch. Absurd concepts like a rehearsal space/recording studio in a bunker beneath the renowned Vondelpark and a subway stop (to counter our studio above a subway stop) were nicely paired with beautifully trivial observations on behalf of Tedward, who pointed out that you can rent roller skates from that very same park.

A solid effort that would pave the way for the equally righteous edition of Me + You that would follow, Me + You pt. 64 is yet another fine chapter in Viva history, especially since this marked that first Dutch group featured on the program. Gezellig!











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Just feeling like this week is going to be quite debaucherous already. And there's no better way to get a quick fix before Turkey intake, possible family dilemmas, and in my case post-birthday hangover blues than kicking out some classic KMS Detroit Techno. Stumbled upon this one today and remember hearing it on JLB every weekend back in da day!

This year the ole B Day falls on Turkey Day and the old parentals are indeed coming up to NYC. Things to do: find Dad a bike store and a quiet place for him to write his Philosophy term papers for John Hopkins graduate program. Mom: Talk about the 80's and my formulative years dreaming of playing with Adrian Dantley. I'm hoping for a solid 32 on Thursday. And, I'm just letting you know guys I might have an impromptu party at Chez Ted rocking this MP3 out and sporting my new fawwwkin oaks I just bought.

And Thanks Kevin Saunderson for instantly making the listener feel like he or she is tripping their ballz off in a matter of seconds! See you at the Rave Turkey Party!

Back in the Springtime Viva Radio was beyond "stoked" to debut the Austin, TX group Frantic Clam's single entitled "Hipster" We are now pleased to premiere their latest recording from the Clam in honor of everybody's favorite pornstar, American Apparel model, cute friend, and recent Nick Zinner photo collaborator Sasha Grey.

That's right, the song is called "Sasha Grey." It's an homage, a call, a wanton, a desire we all have within ourselves to reach out to her and just say, "Yo girl, I wish you'd be my winter girlfriend this year." I've heard homage songs before and they usually get a little creepy, but singer Zack Hadley keeps a nice little riff going on this number that we can only hope sparks some response from Ms. Grey.

Zack also sent us out a little explanation of his avid sexual behaviors and love of smut in regards to Sasha! Listen to the song right here and on Viva Radio Mix!

*Frantic Clam - Sasha Grey*

And that's why today on Viva Radio we honor Austin, TX's "Frantic Clam" as the citizens of the day!

photo credit: Tina
Viva's video-makin' machine is cranking them out these days, much to everyone's delight. With many accompanying videos to several editions of Me + You, you can now revisit and relive your favorite Viva studio experiences as if they were your own!

If you've got a hankering for Gary War, this is your lucky day - below is a clip from his session on Me + You pt. 57 wherein the gang performs "No Payoff" from their latest LP, Horribles Parade. It's a brisk number, with icy clean guitar, crisp sampled drums, synth bass, and G's trademark warbly vocals, all presented with a sheen production quality that's usually absent from the "lo-fi" recordings that the group/man is known for.

Said production issue is discussed to a nice length halfway through the video, resulting in a video that is truly half performance -- half interview. Nicely done, everyone!

Our very own Maxwell Hugpatch & Sheri Barclay make isolated appearances in the director's cut of the video for Beck & Charlotte Gainsbourg's recent duet, "Heaven Can Wait".

This highly absurd and surreal video is stimulating and whimsical, with unsettling imagery that is quite easy on the eyes thanks to fantastic cinematography, editing, and, of course, the perfect casting...

Overall, it's a fantastic package. A fine achievement for director Ken Schofield, Beck and Charlotte, and Max and Sheri. Stay weirdest, California.

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Well here's a scene from a lost classic and a recommendation from Zach Cowie, who's quite versed in the ways of unearthing. Fortunately, this clip gives almost nothing away from the film, as it is one of many standalone moments that enhance and gild movies like this that have great storylines, as opposed to livening up okay-at-best or best-left-behind industry speedbumps labeled as "cult" flicks. Plus, that's the legendary Doug Sahm of The Sir Douglas Quintet making those ridiculous noises, revealing himself to be more of a kindred spirit than I thought he was.

OKAY THEN - The film: Cisco Pike, the plot: has-been West Coast folk star Cisco Pike (portrayed by then-was folk star Kris Kristofferson) believes that his dope dealing days are over, what with already walking on thin ice due a few previous dealing-related convictions. That is until crooked cop (Gene Hackman) proposes and eventually forces onto him a deal like no other, which entails the unloading of many, many kg's of top-notch weed with a time limit of less than 3 days in exchange for dismissing prior offenses. The conflict is brought about by HackMan's erratic behavior and complete disregard for the occupational hazards of a drug dealer (and understandably so in wanting to keep his tracks hidden), Cisco's unhappiness vis a vis being relegated from a valued songwriter to a pot pushing pariah, and his beautifully-breasted Karen Black of a girlfriend's disapproval of his (last) foray into this dark trade.

The immediate plot establishment, perfect soundtrack, and unique cinematography raise this film to a nicely crafted piece of cinema, loaded with L.A. imagery that'll tickle the shit out of your California fancy. Not to mention, the above-mentioned standalone scenes and choice bits of dialog really pepper this movie, which is topped off by the involvement of one Harry Dean Stanton.

Thanks, Zach!



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NYC's The So So Glos left the stoop on their city block for a brief moment to drop in on our beloved studio for Me + You Pt. 63! And what a good start we got off to...

It was a funny morning, that one. I was rushing through my morning commute, practically body-checking some faceless girl out of the way as I just made it onto the Q train. My name was called out and I turned to find that it was Zach, all-around good guy and drummer extraordinaire of The So So's.

The group had just returned from a nationwide tour with Glen Rock stars Titus Andronicus and had barely been back a day, so when I sat down to chat with Zach, he too was a bit rattled by the MTA - having to get used to being back in New York City is an interesting task, but homeboy seemed to embrace it. As a matter of fact, the group are quite ready to accept New York for all of its flaws and obstacles because if you've listened to their music, you'll know that they love to celebrate the hell out of the Big Apple, while offering equal amounts of pining for the good ol' days (pre-recession, pre-condos, pre-adulthood...).

That being said, the train ride proceeded to be somewhat of a problematic situation: the Q conveniently skipped about 5 stops on its route and landed us somewhere in Sunset Park. Both confused, we got off and wandered around for sec. Zach took charge, got us answers, and led us across to the adjacent platform while grabbing a churro on the way. Problem solved and we were late for the session. Hey, at least this time I had a valid excuse.

Nevertheless, we were greeted with a lukewarm reception and I attribute the warmth aspect to Matt Elkin, spritely guitarist and long-time associate. Now, the crew of Matt, Alex, Ryan, and Zach was complete with the supplementary talents of Alex Reich who serves as the group's producer and Kinks catalog retainer (this would come in handy later on in the session). Not to mention, he is instrumental in the maintenance of Brooklyn funhouse Shea Stadium.

The interview was somewhat revelatory, and while a few years younger than Tedward, they offered a nice gritty and regional contrast to Ted's ironically non-homosexual gay transplant vibe. Starting off with a family history, it is explained that two of these guys are brothers and one is a half-brother since age 3. Hint: it's not Matt. Then - a reverb-soaked "1-2-3-4" leads right into "Throw Your Hands Up", a song that shits all over national radio and Clear Channel mindlessness. How appropriate!

Well, I guess we all come out as the good guys in the end. Which is why this edition of Me + You ended up being quite pleasurable with some great tidbits and fantastic acoustic renditions of tracks from their 2008 sophomore record "Tourism/Terrorism". Whether or not their take on The Kinks' "Shangri-La" made it into the program is up to you to find out... So LISTEN!













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I remember this from when I was still a bit fresh out here at Viva; I had no idea who Dwight Twilley was and I'd never heard this fantastic song of his called "Looking For The Magic". All I knew that it was pretty ace and that Ted loved it, which gave me some nice insight into the world of Gay Beach Boy. As a matter of fact, Tedward was compelled enough to get Dwight on the phone to talk about the tune in a way that summed up his entire career in a sort of macro-context, with the end result being this short interview.

This was over a year ago for sure, meaning that Ted has been sitting on it pretty hard. This might be confusing to some of you but Twilley don't mind, so all's well. Here it is now, in all of its tweaked glory - the gently grazed piano key intro is extended for all of your build-up needs, featuring some dial-tone action to remind you that you've entered the telephone interview zone.

And not to give anything away (since you might as well listen to this whole thing, being less than 5 mins long) but you should know that Tom Petty is plucking crazy!

*Two's Company: Dwight Twilley*

As if you weren't lucky enough already to have access to Piper K's immaculate playlists on her show L.A. Stony Variety Hour...

If you're even more fortunate to be living in sunny L.A., last night was your chance to stalk to schitt out of this rising star on the rising storm that is sure to be in full force before you know it. She pulled a double DJ set last night, making her way from the Cha Cha Lounge to the Smell in one fell swell swoop.

You will be seeing her face alongside that of her lovely sister's on the upcoming issue of L.A. Record, which focuses on their group Pearl Harbor - said Cha Cha appearance was in relation to the the issue release party.

If you freek over the jams these two dole out on the deckx, then you'll probably jazzed to know that there is an EP worth of new tracks from the sisters K available on their myspace now, including a cover of the Harbs' favorite Berkeley loner Leland's "I've Got Some Happiness" (EP title = "Wish We Were Here"). And if you're patient, you will gladly await the arrival of their forthcoming EP on Mexican Summer, sweetly titled "Something About The Chaparrals". From pearls to gems to sweet, shimmering nugs, simply put, it's important to know that whatever these gals touch is of great value.

Here's that Leland jam. Smoke 'em if you got 'em.


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Dynamic Danes The Raveonettes came in on a Saturday afternoon to take part in Me + You number 62! The boy/girl formation of Sune Rose Wagner and Sharin Foo have been going strong since 2001, appearing on the international radar around the same time as many other groups with similar throwback sounds. Unlike some of those acts who rose to prominence via cleaning up (see: The Hives, The Strokes, and that other duo the White Stripes), The Raveonettes were already bubblegum pure while remaining in a dark corner under the influence of JAMC-brand narcotics. So to speak.

Their low-profile approach wasn't necessarily deliberate, nor was it that low, in the sense that their gradual rise fame has been just that - nice and gradual - while browsing through their back catalogue would reveal that they've been using their time and resources quite wisely. Their previous albums (3 full-lengths and a few EPs to date) feature contributions and guest spots from luminaries such as Richard Gottehrer (clicking on this link is imperative), Ronnie Spector, and Martin Rev! Some rather legit associates there. With this type of cred, solid songwriting, and style, the Raveonettes appear nicely in the rock 'n roll spotlight. As a matter of fact, I remember being pretty satisfied by their Letterman performance last year.

Thus, its been established that The Rave's are damn well suited to be doing what they're doing and several consistent recorded efforts would justify that. Which is why Album #4, In And Out Of Control, is widely welcomed. It pleased us immensely to have the group up up in here here to talk about feelin' at ease in NYC, boys who rape, and constantly being on the rise to being the NEXT BIG THING. Check it out.









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If you're obsessed with the comedy arts like myself you've probably stumbled upon the great North Carolina native Bobby Tisdale Ohhhhhh I dooonn't know! Teeeeehhh Teaahahh...Cheeeeeeckk..

Okay maybe only I know these references but anywhosiers, Bobby was the man behind the ever so popular "Invite Them Up" series that lasted for many years at Riffi in the East Village and has now been storming the Greater Northern Brooklyn underground comedy scene with his new show, "Wards of Merkin" Please check it out when you have a second.

Needles to say the man is pretty busy. I'm happy to unleash his new video which demonstrates the real Tisdale behind the Tisdale. Get to know Bobby and his canine pup at this pre-dinner function!

Bobby's Pre-Dinner Dinner Show Ep. 1 from Bobby Tisdale on Vimeo.

Calling all kuduro fans - Viva are giving you a break re: Le Poisson Rouge. When is it? November 4th, 2009 AKA tomorrow night!

Buraka Som Sistema hail from Portugal and for the past few years have been putting a regional spin on the ever-growing sound of kuduro; originating from Angola, the genre is a fusion of African and Caribbean dance styles with house and techno applications. Having brought the most mainstream attention to this musical movement, Buraka have managed to wrangle together a nice roster of guest MCs and vocalists for their material, what with their first single featuring Angolan MC Petty and their most recognized single having been recorded in Angola featuring M.I.A. among others. They're taking it to new levels, friends.

In case you decide not to pay attention to the flyer above, here is the info:

Buraka Som Sistema
w/ Maluca and DJ Geko Jones (Que Bajo?!)
Wed., November 04, 2009 - 11:00pm
21+ / $18 adv / $20 day-of

So, be the first to write info@viva-radio.com and you win a glorious pair of tix...

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Hola Viva Radio listeners and supporters! I recently had the opportunity to catch up with Dulce Fernandez, the gal responsible for Viva’s only all-Spanish, and definitely all-rocking music show, Sensacion En Espanol. Senorita Fernandez hails from Monterrey, Mexico, and not only was she a pleasure to interview, but she also really knows her stuff! As you’ll find out from our interview, Dulce has a sweet tooth for sweet tunes, but she’s got an even sweeter knack for making the old and the new come together. Her show covers a definitive array of Latin classics along with a generous serving of more modern and underground Latin acts. There’s something for everybody. Hell, I’m pretty sure that if my mother were to ever tune in with me, she’d probably know a good portion of the songs played. I’m not kidding!

Viva-Radio: Dulce, so what can you tell us about the Monterrey, Mexico music scene that Wikipedia and Google cannot?

Dulce Fernandez: That it’s not all mariachis and maracas. There are many talented bands and dj's that the world should pay attention to, like Dendron, Ratas del Vaticano, Quiero Club, El Cuarto, She's a Tease, Los Margaritos, Gloria Trevi and others.

VR: And what's a typical day like for you in Monterrey?

DF: I get up late if I can, I hate waking up early. When I can, I stay in bed 'til 4PM or something. Then I deal with traffic while listening to some tunes, chew gum, and go to work. On the weekends I dj, hang out and watch lots of television, the usual stuff.

VR: How long have you been involved with music and how exactly were you introduced to it?

DF: I studied art, but after I graduated I needed a job and it’s hard to find one related to the arts. I used to paint for a gallery, but the pay sucked! I've also always loved and collected music, so I found a job dj-ing at a small club 6 years ago. I've been into it since then.

VR: What was dj-ing for that first club like?

DF: It was at a small club named Cocktails. The people there were like the most pretentious people ever! They were used to a more commercial kind of music. The owner himself would ask me to stay away from playing anything too "crazy." I had to get used to that because it was my first job and I forced myself to like it no matter what. I gave them what they wanted and I wound up staying there for 2 years. Then I decided that it was time to move on.

VR: Where exactly did you move on to?

DF: Well, now I work for American Apparel during the day and I am a resident dj at a club named Rabbit by night. Working at American Apparel has allowed me to meet a lot of people related to the music industry and party planning. I've picked up a few gigs because of it! So now, I dj for American Apparel in-store events, I dj for other clubs and private parties, and I've even dj-ed at last year's SXSW Flea Market!



VR: Nice move! How has this all affected the music that you play?

DF: These days I'm free to play anything I want. I usually go from Electro to Italo Disco, Pop, some Goth, New Wave, Techno, Hip-Hop (80's-90's), some Punk, Rock n’ Roll, RnB and more!

VR: Speaking of music that you play, I noticed that on Sensacion En Espanol, you play a lot of contemporary acts like Anita Tijoux right alongside more classical stuff like Ana Gabriel. Is there a reason for that?

DF: Yea, that's one of the intentions of my show, to present yesterday and today's music, all Spanish songs from all genres. I can go from “Besame Mucho” to Cypress Hill.

I think that if I was a Latino living and working in another strange and non-Spanish speaking country, I'd be happy to hear some familiar Latin tunes from all eras. This way, anyone can relate to the show. It's an opportunity to discover some new music and remember hits from the past.

VR: Is there an era or genre in Latin music that you are particularly fond of?

DF: I’ve always loved pop music, in every language. Almost everything I like, including Hip-Hop and other genres, has a pop element. I love 80's Mexican Pop and Spanish Pop. I think those were good times. Music was original, fun and creative! I also love Hip-Hop from Spain, some Cumbia, Mexican Rock (50´s-90´s) and some Punk.

VR: If you had to serve as a tour guide for Viva Radio listeners that are just beginning their travels into Latin music, what would be the first landmark groups or artists that you'd recommend for them to "visit?"

DF: Mmm... Caifanes, Alaska, Maldita Vecindad, Radio Futura, Los Prisioneros, Raffaella Carra, Carlos Berlanga, Tote King, Los Abuelos De La Nada, Mecano, and the list goes on…

VR: Muchisimas gracias Dulce! Thanks for the interview and good luck to you with your work and gigs. We look forward to more togetherness and tunes on Sensacion En Espanol!

We've been a little behind on our videos from Me + You but we are indeed catching up! What a better way to break in November with the North American debut recording of the song Crystalised by The xx. Yes this was their first ever recording in North America right up in our wee broom closet of love in Brooklyn, NY! We had to strip down and do acoustic because their UK converters were not quite up to par just yet. It was either that or we storm into Guitar Center ready to battle it out in the keyboard room.

Sigh...alas we pulled off another amazing recording and got a little inside scoop into some of their R&B influences and how Romy handles losing all of her songs on her computer to a greedy Lady Gaga fan! We hope they're resting up here as they've got an insane amount of concerts brewing for the remainder of 2009 and into 2010. We wish them all the best!

You can check out more Me + You exclusive videos on our YouTube page here!

Also don't forget to check out The Best of Me + You Vol. 1 available now at American Apparel!