City & Colour - Waiting City & Colour - Constant Knot City & Colour - Hello, I’m in Delaware

Today, when I opened up my Myspace (evil, evil myspace), they had an advertisement for City & Colour. Seems they’ve started up a new section of the social networking system called ‘Transmissions’ which features some bands that are really under the radar, and some that aren’t. (James Blunt, Nada Surf)

Having fallen in love w/ Dallas Green about a year ago, I was happy to see that they (the evil evil Myspace) covered someone who isn’t very popular, but still extremely talented. Green was the lead singer of emo/punk/indie Canadian band, Alexisonfire. Even though Alexis found some success with their music, it seems that Green had to do some recording of his own, to get it out of his system. He thus formed a solo act, City & Colour.

His first album ‘Sometimes’ became quite the hit, even with Alexis fans, despite it’s melodic acoustic nature. It is a tremendous album that bleeds passion and honesty. If you should so happen to be a fan of Bon Iver, Damien Rice, or Iron & Wine - this is your guy, if you didn’t know already.

In January, he released ‘Bring Me Your Love,’ which I just got my hands on, and I must say, is a little more mature than ‘Sometimes’ was. If you haven’t picked it up yet, you really should, if acoustic singer songwriters that have tremendous voices is your thing. Make sure you also check out the ‘Transmissions’ section of the evil myspace as well. He has a few songs, and answers a few questions. It’s good stuff. Even if it is on Myspace.

Sub Pop, the label behind Nirvana and numerous other Northwest acts will be festivaling it up this year on July 12th and 13th. I can’t find information out on where exactly, but the lineup is full of Sub Pop artists, past and present. The most notable for Sub Pop would be current folk parody band ‘Flight of the Conchords.’ Grammy winning duo of Jemaine Clement and Bret Mckenzie are soon to release a full length CD, and have quite the touring schedule ahead of them during the late spring and summer.

Though unable to find the venue, tickets are 30 bucks for one day, 50 bucks for both. Other current artists that are gonna rock your socks - Fleet Foxes, Foals, Iron & Wine. They also have some past acts coming in that you’re going to enjoy. Green River, Mudhoney, The Fluid, and Red Red Meat will also be appearing.

The Northwest is sure shaping up to be one hell of a place for festivals this year. With Bumbershoot, Sasquatch, and the Capitol Hill Block Party, any music fan is sure to find a festival that suits them.

posted by KEXP