Our first official CMJ music festival was quite the blur! endless travels from venue to venue, sleep deprivation, an infinite amount of numbers and business cards, transit issues (1 train specifically,) bad food, cheap drinks, sold out showcases, label parties and one hell of a Press Mixer. Needless to say…….. it was an adventure we’d certainly do all over again. Instead of doing the norm of pictures and daily updates, we’ve decided to hit you with our own CMJ Mixtape. Tracklisting, artists info and download is after the jump.
New Look Our favorite duo (literally) played in one of the smaller venues at Ace of Clubs, Sara’s vocals alone would deserve a spot here. Definite highlight and the meeting of Theophilus London was a welcomed bonus.
Surfer Blood Webster Hall played hosts to our Fresh Faces and although our stay was short, these Floridians vastly improved stage presence and the sold out set was more than enough proof.
The Drums Say what you want but we enjoyed the whole set from one of the most talked about bands this year, which made the secret 1:30 am show at Santos Party House worth the journey.
Lissie Our Rockland native is a flat out star! Her sold out set at Hiro Ballroom was exceptional. Ms. Maurus has clearly become a household name, we’re just glad everyone has acknowledged.
Gamble and Clarke Our surprise find of Hall & Oates meets Kraftwerk was just as enjoyable as there sound.
The Knocks Full of energy, these dudes put on a serious party at Public Assembly and the unlimited PBR’s only added to our late night viewing of a duo who’s destined to make major noise in the upcoming new year.
Ava Luna -Another surprising delight, Brooklyn natives provided some great pop harmonies.
First Aid Kit From numerous sources…… “These lovely ladies are simply fantastic” which is something we’ve been saying since the beginning. There cover of “Tiger Mountain Peasant Song” by the Fleet Foxes is even more chilling in person. Best performance of the festival.
Kisses Buzz duo band who became a favorite at the festival. We’re a sucker for boy girl combo’s and there set did not disappoint.
O’Spada- Julie Spada (vocals) was well worth this post alone, now hearing her and the band live is an added treat.
Mimicking Birds One show was all that was needed for our beloved Mimicking Birds. A riveting acoustic set that was another highlight we’ll be discussing this year.
Ty Segall San Fransisco standout who provided us with a vintage garage rock sound that we’d been missing. Welcomed addition to the Cafe.
The Good Natured Adorable Sara Macintosh introduced there dark electro pop sound to Public Assembly barefoot and all! Amazing talent who made our experience even greater.
The Gay Blades Got tipped on this band about a year back, unfortunately we caught the tail end of there set at Spike Hill but got a reawakening (via internet) shortly after. Regret would be an understatement, these dudes are vicious.
