Slim's

** Slim's shows are all ages **

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calendar of shows. The following are detailed descriptions of some upcoming shows.

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Slim's Presents at The Palace of Fine Arts (3301 Lyon St, SF):

Slim's Steps Out presents:
MARK KOZELEK OF SUN KIL MOON & RED HOUSE PAINTERS (9/10) - The new album by Sun Kil Moon, entitled "Admiral Fell Promises" was released on July 13th, 2010 by Caldo Verde Records. This 60 minute, ten song album of original material will be available on CD, digital download and vinyl. The vinyl version includes liner notes and two bonus tracks recorded live in St Malo, France.

This is Sun Kil Moon's fourth album but only the third of original material after 2003's "Ghosts of the Great Highway" and 2008's "April." Additionally it is the first that is all acoustic, played entirely by Mark Kozelek on nylon string guitar.

Coming to Slim's (333 11th Street, SF):

KALX & Goethe-Institut presents:
STEREO TOTAL (9/2) - To sum up the Berlin-based duo's history, let us list the different elements characteristic of their musical art: a minimalistic production (in a positive sense), meaning a home-made-trash-garage-sound crossed with underground, authentic as well as amateurish, ironic as well as effective, pop as well as...political. An untiring creative energy, as if it could never suffice, "Oh, but you haven't heard this one!" and wop! here we go again, hardly leaving time to draw a deep breath. A brilliant sense of composition as well as for covering other's material, whatever the source, combined with an excessive love for French chanson (the main weak spot being an evident admiration for the master Gainsbourg). A mystery of words resulting from the French-German/ male-female bilingualism, words in which accents are merrily blended and become more and more exotic from album to album (Japanese, Turkish, Spanish, English). And finally, an explicit and surprising sensitivity for electronic effects and a thrilling beat. A gift of pop music and its everlasting history.

The unexpected combination of two traditions - French chanson and German electronica (which not only relates to Kraftwerk, but also to the uniquely German sound of "Neue Deutsche Welle", popular in the eighties), and the emergence of electrogroove, a sound which has flourished over the past ten years in numerous clubs in Berlin is again at its best, enchanting its listeners.

LIGHTS OVER PARIS (9/3) - Lights Over Paris is much more than a rock band, it’s a lifestyle. The multifaceted band based out of Hollywood, CA is bringing back the fun and the party that is rock n’ roll. The music they play is a direct representation of the madness and love that spills out of each member. Lights Over Paris is so much more then just the music. With their hilarious, jackass-esque antics and fan devotion; the band is a following, a movement and all all round good time.

Lights Over Paris operates with a group mentality with everyone playing their own role very well. TaLLLLL writes all of the story driven lyrics and melodies, calling on both his own life experiences and his active imagination for source material. Will Pepper is a stud on the keys. Devin has toured with Kelly Osbourne and Avril Lavigne and is not a stranger to 100,000 plus crowds. Aside from his guitar skills, he fills the role of music director for the band. Dave kicks ass on the Pork Pie LOP kit and Mike likes to dance with his bass guitar upside-down while flying backwards. With musical influences ranging from AC/DC and Bon Jovi, to Kanye West, Lady GAGA and Justin Timberlake, all the way to, Blink 182 and Green Day, LOP’s style is not limited to rock and electronic, but draws on all types of music.

Sean Healy Presents:
GRAND DADDY PURP W/ DJ IGNITE (9/4) - Please visit www.webookbands.com for more info. Tickets are $15 and available only at the box office on the night of the show.

FORREST DAY / THE SHOTGUN WEDDING QUINTET (9/9) - One of the dominating names in the San Francisco Bay Area live music scene, Forrest Day and his seven piece band, complete with bass, drums, keyboard, guitar, and a threesome of saxophones, are a genre-defying group that formed in 2006. Supported by a sound that draws from hip-hop, punk, reggae, pop, circus music and jazz, Day's lyrics are relevant and political, humorous and insightful. Their live shows consistently amaze audiences with their high energy, intensity, and their very danceable songs. As of yet there are no recordings of the whole band available, but they have been working at Hyde Street Studios in San Francisco for the past year or so capturing the intensity and girth of these seven musicians, and with any luck will have a full-length release available everywhere in 2010.

At the heart of San Francisco's infamous Jazz Mafia, you'll find The Shotgun Wedding Quintet - A group of 5 powerful musical personalities with the sound of a 10-piece band...literally. By taking advantage of modern technology, these guys use electronic sampling devices to layer their sound, an original technique this band has mastered. Based in the Mission District, The SWQ has garnered a loyal following of Hip-Hop and Jazz enthusiasts. Since 2003 they've worked extensively on touring throughout California, and opening for groups like Digital Underground, Tone Loc, Zion-I and more. The band consists of some of the Bay Area's finest musicians, many of which have performed with Lyrics Born, Zion-I, Spearhead, and the Realistic Orchestra. Rapper Dublin uses today's headlines to create what he calls "Freestyle Narratives"; often times incorporating the thoughts and ideas of audience members into an unsurpassable live show. Up and coming Bay Area DJ/Producer Aspect incorporates unique samples, and creative turn-table scratches to help build the deep soundscape within the rhythm section. All of these elements combined make for an incredible live performance. The Shotgun Wedding Quintet is a band to be seen, heard, and understood.

DIRT NASTY (9/10) - Born and raised in the Bay Area, Dirt Nasty started rappin' on karaoke machines at the age of 14. He grew up listening to Too Short, Geto Boys, Black Sabbath, Metallica, Terence Trent D'Arby, and Sade.

Never having a father figure to look up to, he learned about the game, the streets, and the ladies from his record collection. Hollywood is now his home, where he found and started his 3 man group "Dyslexic Speedreaders" (which also includes Mickey Avalon and Andre Legacy).

Dirt Nasty produced and was featured on the cult hit "My D*ck" which was featured on Mickey Avalon's debut self-titled Interscope release and has been licensed in numerous film and TV shows including: "Harold & Kumar: Escape From Guantanamo Bay," "The Rebound," and HBO's series "Hung" & "Entourage." Dirt has also produced tracks for The Living Legends, Mickey Avalon, Andre Legacy, Pittsburgh Slim and numerous others.

Dirt Nasty released his self titled, debut album in 2008 on the label he co-owns, Shoot To Kill Music, and just recently celebrated the release of his new album "Nasty As I Wanna Be."

Look for Dirt Nasty playing a show in a town near you...

AC/DSHE (THE ORIGINAL ALL-GIRL TRIBUTE TO AC/DC) (9/11) - Well if you're looking for trouble, we're the girls to see, If you're lookin' for a satisfaction, satisfaction GUARANTEED!!!

AC/DShe is the original all-girl AC/DC tribute band doing Bon-era songs. These gals are committed to staying true to the heart pounding rhythms and high energy presentation of early AC/DC. The FIRST of the female tribute band phenomenon, they have been performing since the summer of 1999. Like AC/DC, AC/DShe knows it's a long way to the top if you wanna rock-n-roll, but they've been doing a kick ass job of delivering some high voltage rock to maximum-capacity crowds worldwide. So, put on your best AC/DC tour shirt, grab a beer, and hop on the highway to hell with AC/DShe.

THE RELEASE (9/16) - The Release, a group of ambitious and energetic young musicians, is a four-piece rock band from the San Francisco Bay Area. The band’s aspirations and drive for success have pushed them to self-produce and distribute their debut album. The artistic chemistry between the four members allows them to continue to grow and develop as a band and as individuals. Each member is a vital element that completes the structure of the band.

They formed with a simple, mutual goal: to create quality and lively rock music. With dynamic rock changes and reggae influences, The Release uses uplifting and positive energy complimented with soothing melodies to create a new sound in rock. Individually, the members have unique attributes that contribute to the band and add to the creative process. Lead guitarist Ross Walker, an exceptional music theorist who strives for perfection in the studio, is an invaluable asset in the development of their music. Singer and guitarist Brian Coe, with his quirky yet creative song writing skills, writes fun-loving lyrics and ear-catching melodies. The contrasting styles of these artists lay the foundation for their sound. Drummer Louie Sehgal, with his focus and precision, keeps a solid tempo during their performances. Their laidback bassist Danny Herrera compliments their rhythm section while being a source of energy on-stage and a calming presence in the studio. These respective characteristics and their personal and professional appreciation for one another allow the band to express themselves musically.

While the release of their debut album “Whole Night Through” in November 2009 embodies the band’s hard work over the last year, they have no plans for slowing down. The Release continues to find exciting venues and new fans, as they pursue opportunities to spread their music across the country. Their dedication to their passion is represented by the sheer effort they put in their craft. They are humbled to know each other, yet motivated and determined to share their talent and sound with the masses.

HOSTILITY (9/17) - Hostility is all about brutal, honest, in your face metal. "We have constantly pushed ourselves to be better. Metal is a part of who we are -- we live it, breathe it, sleep it. It's like therapy," says Hostility's singer Greg Haran. "We really live this sh*t 24-7," continues guitarist Tony Vorrises. "It's a way of life for us." Hostility has played hundreds of blistering live performances all across the U.S. with acts such as Slipknot, Korn, Lamb of God, Machine Head, Fear Factory, Rob Zombie, Hatebreed, Chimaira etc. Their debut album “Uncompromised,” was mixed by the world-renowned Colin Richardson (Slipknot, Machine Head, Trivium, etc.)

Formed in 1998 while still in high school, the members of Hostility have always stayed true to their unique musical vision. As Haran explains, “Our goal has never changed, our commitment has never wavered. We've always been the band we wanted to be." After releasing "Uncompromised” to critical acclaim in September of 2006 Hostility hit the road hard crushing city after city, state after state.

In 2008, Hostility added drummer Blake Ferris to the fold. “Blake has really helped us become a more a solid and cohesive unit. It’s a new, more straight forward take on the Hostility sound,” says Vorrises, Hostility's relentless music and commitment clearly establishes them as a band on the rise. "We have a 'take no prisoners' attitude; we’re all about our music, our shows and raging with our fans."

After recently completing work on their new album “Set in Stone” engineered and mixed by Juan Urteaga (Machine Head, Testament, Exodus etc...) Hostility is gearing up for a summer release through Voltaic Records (August 3rd), and are slated for a month long June US Headlining tour, playing the Mayhem fest in Phoenix, AZ on July 16th and are heading out on a month long US tour with DevilDriver, Kittie and Kataklysm in August/September!

Dr. Rock & Latin Rock Inc. presents:
EN VIVO (9/18) - Over fifteen years ago, a group of well-talented musicians formed a band that is known today as En Vivo, a Latin Style band comprised of six well-talented and seasoned musicians. They originally formed as “Amigos” and maintained that name for many years. However, in 2009, after having to share the name Amigos with other known bands, they made a decision to change their name to “En Vivo”, which captures the essence of their energetic and lively sound.

En Vivo is known for their smooth yet rich quality of sound and energy with their original songs as well as their own arranged favorite cover-tunes. As En Vivo performs, they keep their crowd dancing and moving while also having the ability to touch their hearts with the soul and words of their original music.

MELVINS (9/19) - It's 2010 which means it's time for another Melvins record! "The Bride Screamed Murder." That's right, "THE BRIDE SCREAMED MURDER." With a title like that you know the record has to be a stone groove. "The Bride Screamed Murder" was recorded in a couple weeks somewhere in Los Angeles... I've been told the recording studio they used was within walking distance of a Starbucks. Where isn't? This marks the third recording in a row with the same band lineup, which is almost a new record without booting a band member! What gives?

But what do the Melvins SOUND like? They've been described as sounding like an explosion in a machine stop, a drum set falling down stairs, a wolverine and a trout in a blender, ice cream and pickles, talentless geeks a several other flattering epithets. King Buzzo describes the Melvins music as Captain Beefheart playing heavy metal... I guess that's a pretty good description.

Who knows what the future holds for the Melvins? We do know they WILL be hitting the road for a bunch of shows in the USA this summer, so make sure to come on down.

JASON FALKNER (9/23) - One-man pop tour de force Jason Falkner returns with another infectious blast of his signature power-pop with his latest album, "I’m Ok, You’re Ok." The 11-track LP, which marks Falkner’s first solo release of original material in more than five years, overflows with the requisite hooks, impeccable arrangements and sticky melodies that have made him a favorite of critics, music lovers and fellow musicians since his early beginnings in the Prince-approved neo-psychedelic band The Three O’Clock and San Francisco psych-poppers Jellyfish.

"I’m OK, You’re OK" shows Falkner in exceptional form and he readily proves this as the record kicks off with the palpable urgency of “This Time,” a swirling dose of keys and fuzzy guitar coupled with a propulsive beat and Falkner’s soaring vocals. In true Falkner form, his songs bounce from the Brian Eno-esque pop of “Stephanie Tells Me,” to the solemn snythpop of “Hurricane” and the gorgeous, string-filled, acoustic album closer, “This Life Of Mine.”

Impressively, aside from the drums on “Runaway,” Falkner played, recorded, produced and mixed every single note on this fourth solo album. And although he chooses to record and perform simply under his full name, the music he creates is far from that of a typical singer/songwriter. His songs are fully loaded compositions complete with layers of guitar, bass, drums, keyboards, strings and of course his rich sweet voice, that deliberately rides the musical scales with ease.

Los Angeles-based Falkner has never been one to be still, and in between his solo projects, he continually outsources his extensive skills. In 2008 he released the second volume of “Bedtime with the Beatles,” his instrumental lullaby renditions of classic Beatle songs, and in 2006, his electro-pop band T.V. Eyes, featuring his former Jellyfish bandmates Roger Joseph Manning Jr. and Brian Reitzell of Redd Kross, released their debut LP. In 2001, he contributed to Air’s "10,000 Hz Legend" and ultimately spent the next three years touring with them as part of their live band. Last year, Falkner, who has produced albums for Brendan Benson, Magnet as well as all of his own, added several more records to his production resume, serving as producer for Daniel Johnston’s latest LP as well as Dutch artist Anne Soldaat. An accomplished multi-instrumentalist, Falkner has performed on more than 20 records for artists as varied as Beck, Paul McCartney, Charlotte Gainsbourg, Cheap Trick, Gnarls Barkley, Glen Campbell and Travis just to name a few.

DAMAGE INC. :TRIBUTE TO EARLY METALLICA/PARADISE CITY:TRIBUTE TO GUNS N ROSES (9/24) - Damage Inc. is the Bay Area’s explosive early Metallica tribute band that captures all the old classic Metallica songs. Fans of the band have been known to say that Damage Inc. is doing something metal fans everywhere have been waiting for - they recreate that old Metallica vibe better than Metallica. Damage Inc. has a powerful set performing all of your favorite Metallica songs up to the "Black" album. Damage Inc. was formed in the winter of 2002 by front-man Aaron Pearson. After an onslaught of local shows, Billy Steele from 107.7 The Bone invited Damage Inc to perform live on the popular Bay Area radio show "The Metal Zone," leading to additional radio appearances and bigger shows. In 2004 drummer Larry Howe from Vicious Rumors joined forces with the band. Damage Inc. has played large concert venues like Slim's, The Monsters of Mock Festival, The Hard Rock Cafe, The Metalli Bash (Metallica convention), sold out casino shows and more.

BLOWOFF (HOSTED AND DJ'D BY BOB MOULD AND RICH MOREL) (9/25) - Bob Mould and Richard Morel's Blowoff is a musical smackdown of a party that has become a destination event for a wide cross-section of appreciative fans. Or as Mould succinctly puts it, "A music-centric gay dance party, drawing mainly, but not exclusively, men in their 30s and 40s."

Originating in Washington, DC, Blowoff is an established event in New York, San Francisco, Provincetown, and Brooklyn. Recent additions to the regular rotation include Chicago and Atlanta.

When asked how crowds differs from city to city, Morel says, "While there are differences in all the cities, the common thread is that Blowoff crowds are sexy guys into music, dancing and having fun. It's pretty simple. Not a lot of attitude, just a good time. That said, I think Chicago guys may be taller."

Keenly maintaining the musical emphasis of the Blowoff parties, Mould and Morel DJ in tandem, laying down a meaty signature mix of indie rock, electro and house (from Phoenix to Treasure Fingers to Mark Knight to Stonebridge), accented by a series of artfully eye-popping vignettes projected throughout the club.

So come on down to Blowoff and get your sweat on. Bob and Rich will be glad to see you. Not ones to hide backstage or spin perched above the crowd, they'll be right down on the floor with you. Says Morel, "Me and Bob DJ on the the floor and when we aren't DJing we're hanging out and having fun with everyone else."

NEVERMORE (9/26) - In the heavy metal community many writers toss around the monikers “legend” and “genre defying” to describe many bands, but these terms have never been more accurate if they are referring to Nevermore, who have perfectly carved out their own unique niche over the past 15 years of dominance. This group’s sound encompasses every element of the metal spectrum and is like no other band within their genre. They have played everywhere across the world to over hundreds of thousands of people and after all this time they have never been more determined, focused and powerful than they are now.

One always says that you can’t rush greatness or perfection, and this couldn’t be more true in the case of Nevermore, who last released the highly acclaimed "This Godless Endeavor" in 2005. The Seattle quartet have triumphantly returned with the much anticipated new full-length release, "The Obsidian Conspiracy," which is what could be their most impressive offering of their illustrious, decade plus, heralded career.

Over the years, Nevermore constantly evolved while developing into one of the world’s most remarkable and inimitable metal acts uniting progressive technique, charismatic vocals, thought-provoking lyrics and thrashing impact. This progression is most evident on "The Obsidian Conspiracy" as it is an epic journey through the pantheon of metal taking the listener on an introspective ride of emotions and could be best described as more of a soundtrack to the senses.

This quintessential metal band was formed out of the ashes of Seattle, Washington, based thrash act Sanctuary in 1991 by Dane and Jim Sheppard (bass), with the addition of Jeff Loomis (guitar, who had played in the final line-up of Sanctuary) and Mark Arrington on drums. A few years later, Van Williams joined the band (drums). The band has since released six full-length albums, toured the world a number of times and captivated the hearts of metalheads touring with such diverse and major acts ranging from Megadeth, In Flames, Disturbed, Arch Enemy, Dimmu Borgir and Children of Bodom, among countless others.

NATALIA LAFOURCADE (9/27) - We’re sure that this diminutive Mexican singer could conquer a giant with her voice alone. All of her music comes directly from the heart, whether solo or accompanied by an orchestra. A four-time Latin Grammy nominee and a writer for Sonika magazine, Natalia cites artists like Canadian torch singer Feist or hip hop soul-innovator Erykah Badu. With musicians for parents, music has always been a life-giving force for Natalia. It’s easy to hear why she’s popular on the concert circuit in Japan: emotions that breathe like wind from the propellers of a floating castle, or the swishing sound of walking through wet grass. - Red Bull Music Academy Radio

SEMI PRECIOUS WEAPONS (9/28) - “We are Semi Precious Weapons from New York Mother-F**king City, and we hope you ALL GET LAID!"”

It’s hard to argue with a band who expresses such an impassioned sentiment. And audiences across the country ain’t fightin’ with the raw power and electricity that pulsates throughout a Semi Precious Weapons performance. Their message is clear - music can be dangerous, dirty, and fun.

Led by one of the most charismatic vocalists in generations, the Boston Globe declares that "SPW splits the difference between AC/DC and Queen, fronted by the fabulously fierce Justin Tranter.” The visual appeal of the band, who are masterfully thrusting sex, glamour, and loving violence back into the rock & roll spotlight, is undeniable.

With brash lyrics like: “I can’t pay my rent, but I’m f**king gorgeous,” SPW quickly drew a loyal NYC following and were ultimately voted Best Band in NYC by the Village Voice. During the self-made uprising of their filthy glamour rock 'n roll movement, SPW asked another NYC based rock 'n roll original, Lady Gaga, to open for them. This sparked a friendship that has continued through “The Rise of Gaga” and has culminated in these two uncompromising musical artists to embark together on one of the most talked about world tours this year- “The Monster Ball”

SPW’s album debut with rockworld producer-kingpin Jack Joseph Puig, was released on June 29th, 2010 & showcases the band’s unapologetic embrace of all things filthy, dangerous, and glamorous- in other words: rock & motherf**king roll.

KAMELOT (9/29) - Kamelot is one of metal's most unique, influential and prestigious acts to come along in decades. The group's reputation among fans and media alike is marked by enthusiasm as well as esteem, each of their seven studio albums to date surpassing its predecessor in terms of songwriting and production. As one of the most difficult-to-categorize artists on the metal scene, Kamelot are poised to assault the planet with their most insightful and ambitious project to date, "Ghost Opera." Ready to continue their ascension to the pinnacle of metal royalty, founding guitarist Thomas Youngblood, bassist Glenn Barry, new keyboardist Oliver Palotai and drummer Casey Grillo join lead singer Roy Khan to complete this journey to systematically alter the face of metal. Throughout the recent years, their releases have achieved cult status around the world. "Ghost Opera" will once again raise the bar for others to follow.

EASY STAR ALL-STARS (9/30) - Combining musical versatility, instrumental prowess, beautiful vocal harmonies and a superb rhythm section, the Easy Star All-Stars have established themselves as one of the top international reggae acts since their live debut in 2003. They rock every crowd they play for, whether it’s to thousands at festivals or hundreds at club gigs and private events (like the wedding of NYC Mayor Mike Bloomberg’s daughter). Thanks to their best-selling tribute album releases, "Dub Side of the Moon" (2003) and "Radiodread" (2006), as well as "Until That Day" (2008), an original EP, the Easy Star All-Stars have built a growing, dedicated fan base throughout the world, bringing together fans of reggae, classic rock, dub and indie rock into one big family. Their newest release, "Easy Star’s Lonely Hearts Dub Band," tackles the Beatles’ "Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band" in complete reggae fashion.

NEXT BIG THING TOUR (10/3) - Featuring over 20 up-and-coming local alternative and punk acts! ***PLEASE NOTE: Slim's does not handle the booking for this event.*** For additional information please visit www.nextbigthingtour.com

LOCURA (10/9) - SPAIN. CUBA. JAMAICA. CALIFORNIA. Direct from San Francisco's vibrant music scene, this ensemble draws from the many genres that have strong traditions in the Bay Area, bringing them together into their own distinctive sound. LoCura's music is strongly rooted in Flamenco, deepened through their time living in southern Spain and traveling in Morocco. But it is in the way LoCura mixes and moves in and out of other musical styles, like Reggae, Cuban Son, and Hip-Hop carried by the powerful performance and the soulful vocals of lead singer Kata, that results in an irresistible desire to move and be moved. In Spain the expression "Ida y Vuelta" is used to describe certain styles within Flamenco that made a "round-trip" from Spain to Latin America, mixing with music from the African slave and Indigenous populations. With this idea of music traveling and music as creative resistance, LoCura takes the trip back again mixing it up with their own Califas Flamenkito, Reggae, and Cuban Son styles. As the name implies, LoCura taps into the maelstrom of daily experiences to find that point where opposites meet and dance to convey the way different musical traditions can move so fluidly together. Moved by the music that crosses borders and takes root in different lands, LoCura draws from this creative 'rebelde' spirit to cultivate the cures passed on from our ancestors.

DEVIN TOWNSEND PROJECT (10/12) - One of metal’s most intriguing, ominous and immensely talented figures, the mighty Devin Townsend, is extremely excited to announce that for the first time in his solo career he will be embarking on a headlining tour. This will be a special evening exploring a 15 year musical journey with Townsend performing songs spanning his entire vast catalog.

In a world of increasing conformity and musical banality, Devin Townsend is among the few real personalities who have character, charisma and surprising innovative creativity. As a solo artist and producer, a member of the (by now disbanded) Strapping Young Lad, with whom he played Ozzfest and the main stage at the Download festival, and vocalist on Steve Vai’s album, "Sex And Religion", – Townsend has always inspired fans and critics alike.

K-OS (10/13) - K-os, born Kevin Brereton, is a genuine neo-crossover rap n' roller who's music, much like your iPod, might speak to hipster club kidz, pop chart gazers, Canadian indie rockers, dirty south electronic rap renegades, or reggae rude boys simultaneously. As it should - his rhyme and crooning skills took root in arguably the most polyglot and multi-cultural city on the planet, Toronto. And he's quite vocal about his not belonging to any one genre - he belongs to them all. Says K-os: "I'm a historical opportunist who’s grown up on everything from Dylan to Marley to KRS-One... I've never seen myself as just a hip hop artist."

MATT COSTA (10/15) - In Matt Costa’s world, the only constant is change. Every album is a chance for him to push boundaries, explore uncharted waters, and try something new. Never has this been more apparent than on Costa’s stunning third album, "Mobile Chateau."

Mining his longtime love for ‘60s psychedelic superheroes like Donovan, 13th Floor Elevators, the Zombies, the Electric Prunes, and the West Coast Pop Art Experimental Band, "Mobile Chateau" is a bold step forward into the kaleidoscopic beyond. “I've always been drawn to that sound,” Costa reveals. “I’ve been hearing songs like these in my head for my whole life and 'Mobile Chateau' is the closest I've gotten to getting those songs out of my head and onto a record.”

No matter how you look at "Mobile Chateau," it's an extraordinary vision. It's a trip and a tribute, a revelation and a reverie. You many think you know Matt Costa, but this is a stirring reminder that he is always changing.

STREET DOGS (10/16) - The Boston bred punk band Street Dogs return to champion the working class and to re-ignite punk rock with their finest and most urgent record to date, their self-titled fifth studio album, due out on August 31 via Hellcat Records. Following the release, the band will be touring in support of the new album along with Matt Freeman’s (Rancid) side project, Devils Brigade, and this year’s Celtic punk heroes Flatfoot 56.

Co-produced by bass player Johnny Rioux and Rick Barton and engineered and mixed by Jason Livermore (Rise Against, NOFX) at the infamous punk rock recording studio The Blasting Room in Fort Collins, CO., the self-titled Street Dogs album is a vigorous testament to the band’s longevity and ability to write inspiring punk rock that touches the soul and raises the fists.

BORN RUFFIANS (10/22) - The music industry convention of calling a second album a “sophomore record” makes it sound like rock is some kind of college, which is weird. If Born Ruffians’ 2008 debut album "Red Yellow and Blue" was the result of a talented and precocious gang of freshmen, their 2010 follow-up, "Say It," would be the project they left school to finish — a declaration that they’re smart and ambitious enough to make it on their own, and furthermore, that they’re in it for the long haul.

Toronto’s Born Ruffians feature Luke LaLonde (vocals/guitar), Mitch DeRosier (bass/vocals), and Steve Hamelin (drums). Formed in 2002, the indie rock trio creates a jaunty mix of shifty guitar riffs and hyper-chic vocals for a Pixies-esque shredded kind of sweetness. An appearance at the annual Pop Montreal festival and U.S. tour dates with Hot Chip and Shy Child coincided with the release of Born Ruffians’ self-titled debut EP for Warp Records in October 2006. The band’s first full-length, "Red Yellow & Blue," arrived in spring 2008. They have returned with 2010’s "Say It," which the band recorded in two weeks with producer Rusty Santos.

TRIPTYKON (FEAT. TOM GABRIEL WARRIOR FROM CELTIC FROST & HELLHAMMER) (10/23) - Triptykon, the group formed by former Hellhammer/Celtic Frost singer, guitarist, and main songwriter Tom Gabriel Warrior, is proud to announce the release of its massive debut album, "Eparistera Daimones."

"Eparistera Daimones" was produced by Tom Gabriel Warrior and Triptykon guitarist V. Santura and recorded in V. Santura's own Woodshed Studio in southern Germany, in the course of the second half of 2009. Like Celtic Frost's universally praised "Monotheist" album, "Eparistera Daimones" was mastered by Walter Schmid at Oakland Recording in Winterthur, Switzerland. "Eparistera Daimones" is said to be heavier than "Monotheist," dark, daring, and very diverse.

LIGHTS (10/25) - Oh hey, I'm LIGHTS - a fairly small-sized, Canadian girl who makes intergalactic-electro music. What do I mean by intergalactic? I'm glad you asked. I try to find sounds that seem like they could have been plucked from Saturn's rings or a meteor belt. Equal parts fantastical/epic/beautiful/emotional. As a kid I moved around a lot. To find some form of consistency, I had to find a place that always stayed the same. Concocting music became that world to me and I escaped there any chance I got. It started with just me and the guitar. Then, I moved on to drums, piano, and then the keyboard. When I started realizing the limitless possibilities that synthetic instruments presented, I invested in a little 8-track mixer. I was thirteen. I began the process of transferring what was in my head into something solid. After drifting around and dabbling in different musical genres throughout my teen years, I finally landed on the so-called "electro-pop" planet I live on now. I unleashed a little taster of my work in the early months of 2008 as an EP but the songs kept coming...I couldn't stop them. And the more I made, the easier it became to convey how I felt through simple lyrics juxtaposed with sounds harvested from the far reaches of my alternate universe. Finally I sat back and listened to everything I had feverishly created over the past years, and I was happy. I realized I had discovered more about myself when I was just listening and creating music than from anything else. And for every minute of song that passed through my head, I was reminded of that realization, and it felt special. I called this first full collection of music, "The Listening." I hope that it makes you feel special too..

DEERHUNTER (10/30) - Deerhunter have announced their fourth LP, "Halcyon Digest" (which will be released by 4AD on September 28), though an interactive xerox art project and the launch of a website: www.halcyondigest.com

Ubiquitous frontman Bradford Cox describes "...always being fascinated with the ephemera of 70's – 80's artrock in record stores like Wuxtry in Athens where I hung out as a kid or Wax 'N Facts in Atlanta. You'd see a photocopied faded B-52's flyer next to a poster for Lou Reed or XTC. It was like an artpunk scrapbook on those walls. It made my head spin. Who are these people? Who are the f*cking Residents with these weird-ass eyeball faces?"

Cox has designed a flyer by hand in the cut-and-paste style of his new-wave heroes. Fans are asked to print the flyer out, photocopy it, and paste it around town – in their favorite independent record store, co-op, bedroom, library, etc... They are asked to take photos of the flyers where they hang them and send them to flyers@halcyondigest.com, where they will be posted. Fans are asked to include the city where the photo was taken in the email. People participating are asked to respect local laws regarding the posting of flyers, and to ask permission before posting them on private property.

Those who send in images will be the first to hear (via an e-mailed link) Halcyon Digest's first single in the next few weeks. They will also receive an exclusive non-album track that will not be available anywhere else. ***DEERHUNTER ALSO PERFORMS AT THE GREAT AMERICAN MUSIC HALL ON FRI. SEPT. 29!***

TWO DOOR CINEMA CLUB (11/4) - In this day and age, a record that defies you to spot what music its makers have been listening to is a rare beast - especially one that makes you dance and sing as well. The fact they're still so young - and, by definition, inexperienced - makes it even more extraordinary. Northern Ireland’s Two Door Cinema Club is a music-mad trio whose debut album fizzes with invention and sparkling tunes. Rooted in rock and pop, with elements of electronica / electro, and Afro-beats, the sum is greater than any ‘indie electro pop’ parts. The album also re-defines short, sharp and sweet - 10 songs, 32 minutes and no wastage whatsoever - as classic debut albums should be.

COMBICHRIST (11/8) - With an explosive mix of hard Industrial noise, Techno beats, Electronic Body Music grooves, a rebellious Rock’n’Roll-attitude, a natural passion for dirty and tongue-in-cheek fun, plus a hyper-energetic and charismatic front man, Combichrist hit the scene like an avalanche back in 2003 with their infernal debut “The Joy Of Gunz.” Sporting a fresh, original and aggressive new sound that felt like the sonic equivalent to an energy surge, the brainchild of Andy LaPlegua naturally took the crowds by storm. The follow-up albums “Everybody Hates You”, “What The F**k Is Wrong With You People?” and “Today We Are All Demons” firmly planted the band among the top acts of the Electro-scene and club-hits like “This S*it Will Fcuk You Up”, “Blut Royale”, “Get Your Body Beat” or “Sent To Destroy” are always mandatory spins at any underground discotheque.

Originally a solo project of singer and Andy LaPlegua, Combichrist is now a full-blown live act with two drummers and a synth-berzerking noise maker, turning any venue into a sweat-inducing riot that fuses a post-apocalyptic “Mad Max”-style atmosphere with mesmerizing tribal percussion onslaughts and a hyperactive stage act right from the bowels of hell. With extensive tour itineraries across the globe, the band quickly became one of the scene’s biggest favourites on the live front, as well. When legendary German band Rammstein invited them to support them for the first leg of their massive 2009/2010 European Tour, it was like a dream come true and the ultimate culmination of six years of hard work getting their music out on the streets. The crowd response at the sold-out Rammstein shows was overwhelmingly good, the tour a big success and an invitation to fill the support slot for the second leg of the tour followed without much further ado.

Upon completing the tour, Combichrist returned straight to the studio to record the follow-up album to the successful “Today We Are All Demons." Prior to that, the band released a third single off “Today We Are All Demons” in February – “Scarred”, with guest guitars from Wes Borland. The searing first single of the long-awaited new album is called "Never Surrender," with the infernal long player "Making Monsters" following in Oct. "Making Monsters" sees the U.S.-Norwegian devastation-machine at its most relentless and versatile on the group's most mature release to date. The sky’s the limit – and Combichrist are on full boost!

GHOSTFACE KILLAH (11/11) - Who’s gonna take the weight? In these days and times—the last days—for a multitude of reasons, this is the question at hand. And, if ever there was any doubt, the answer is, of course, none other than Ghostface Killah. Armed with his latest heat rock of an album, "Ghostdini the Wizard of Poetry," the broad shouldered Ghost stands ready and willing to carry the Wu Tang’s burden and return rap to it’s proper course.

And who better to kick the truth to the young black youth, than Ghost, an artist more universally accepted than American Express. “I know that niggas got love for me,” he says. “Where ever I go, up north, down south, out west, niggas show me love, because they respect me as a true artist." In an industry of swagger jackers and copy cats Ghost has always stood for integrity and innovation and his unique wordplay and unparalleled taste in beats has been demonstrated on each of his solo albums, as well as his contributions to the Wu Tang Clan albums, and perhaps most notably Raekwon’s lauded classic, "Only Built For Cuban Linx." “It used to be all about originality and flipping new words,” he says. “Now you got niggas all using the same words, but I come from that Slick Rick era, that Biz Markie era when everybody had to sound different, so my sound ain’t like anybody else.”

Indeed, born and raised in Staten Island’s infamous Stapleton project, Ghost, born Dennis Coles 39 years ago, has always been a pioneer, even within his own crew. Though it’s said that when Wu Tang Clan formed like Voltron in 1992 that RZA was the head, undoubtedly Ghostface was the body. “When RZA decided to form the Wu Tang I was the one that knew everyone,” he says, “So I was the link that brought everyone together and that’s why I was an executive producer on 36 Chambers.” That album would go on to go 3 times platinum and change the face of rap music.

While hip hop stays an ever changing creative environment, over 15 years deep in the game Ghost remains one of the genre’s few immovable, revered creators. As it always has, it’s this attention to detail which will set Ghostface apart as he puts rap on his back and, true to his superhero moniker, saves the day.

DOOMTREE FEATURING P.O.S. AND DESSA (11/12) - Doomtree's Wings and Teeth Tour is the first tour to feature every member of the Doomtree crew. Over three hours of music, solo performances and and an all crew set to end the night!

Doomtree is a record label. Doomtree is a rap crew. Doomtree is a family. Over the past five years Doomtree has become one of the most highly regarded hip-hop collectives in the Midwest, thanks to their innovative recordings, explosive live shows, and tireless work ethic. By combining the blueprint of hip hop with the DIY ethos of punk and a slew of disparate artistic and musical influences, Doomtree has won the favor of a broad range of audiences. They are as likely to find fans at indie rock shows as they are at rap shows or basement dance parties. In the past several years the collective has grown to include the lyrical and production talents of more than a dozen core members. The members of Doomtree come from a wide variety of backgrounds and musical interests, but join together to create some of the most forward-thinking beats and rhymes this side of 1987.

NILE (11/14) - Over two years since their last studio album "Ithyphallic", mighty American technical death metal masters Nile are finally back with new and exciting material – "Those Whom the Gods Detest" - a landmark release in the field of all things brutal yet technically refined. This album will show all youngsters and newcomers just who is the leader of the pack!

Once again produced by Neil Kernon, it sums up to a massive death metal onslaught featuring all the trademarks of the band – relentless brutality, Egyptian mythology, Middle Eastern interludes and incredible guitar duels. An absolute highlight in the Nile discography, and second to none in today's death metal scene!

ZION I (11/20) -

SOULFLY (11/28) - Soulfly's seventh album, "Omen," stands steeped in tradition. Released in May 2010, frontman Max Cavalera fuels "Omen" with the same blood, fire and spirit that made him a genre icon with Sepultura, Soulfly and Cavalera Conspiracy. Following the warpath left by 2008's critically acclaimed "Conquer," "Omen" is a sign of Soulfly becoming an even fiercer, fierier and more furious metallic monster, seven albums into their storied career. Various Soulfly traditions remain upheld over the course of the album's 11 tracks. Bobby Burns' bass rumbles and roars on teeth-gnashing opener "Bloodbath and Beyond," as Joe Nunez commences pure percussive pummeling. Marc Rizzo tears through throat-slitting leads, while still making room to groove on the likes of "Lethal Injection." Max's unmistakable vocals and riffs work in tandem for the ultimate aural assault.

Max and Co. simply don't stop. Soulfly's Gold-certified, self-titled debut, has become a genre classic since its 1998 release. Six records and countless sold out shows across the world have paved the path for "Omen." For Max, his latest Soulfly offering is the culmination of over a decade of growth. He explains, "We entered a heavier and more aggressive phase with 'Dark Ages' and 'Conquer.' 'Omen' is really violent in terms of the lyrics and the music. I think this record brings fans closer to Soulfly than ever before. It's got every element that people loved from the last two albums. It's all there, but it goes beyond that. People that liked 'Conquer' are going to love 'Omen' because there are a couple more surprises."

D.R.I. (1/14) - For more than 25 years, D.R.I. has been the epitome of the aggressive, hardcore/punk thrash sound. Throughout this time, they've been one of the few genuine underground bands to remain true to their pure punk roots; still actively touring and recording just as hard as when they began. While they're a little older now, time hasn't gotten the best of the Dirty Rotten Imbeciles. They're still thrashing just as hard, and just as loud as ever, continuing to overload our senses with the sound that is, and will always remain, uniquely D.R.I.