Todd Goldstein, best known for his involvement with New York band Harlem Shakes (RIP), is a solo artist in his own right. Kids Aflame, ARMS‘s debut album is finally getting its US release through Gigantic Music on October 27th. New Yorkers can preview the material this Saturday at the Bell House when he plays a free show with his new band; in the meantime, read what Todd has to say about his inspirations, the direction of the second album, and why ARMS and not legs. Read More »

It’s become cliché among local indie-rock fans to say that Cambridge-bred synth-pop act Passion Pit get the kids to dance. Anointed by critics last fall as the next big thing, the band’s shtick is defiant in its own way, even if it’s clearly for children.

Monday was frontman Michael Angelakos’ twenty-second birthday, perfect timing for a release party in honor of his band’s new album, Manners. Since the event was held on a boat on the Hudson, I wore a white trench coat in keeping with the natural theme. It was a bit like play-acting Tom Wolfe among the Merry Pranksters: the crowd seemed to be reaching for a freaky-deaky vibe while I stood there like a prematurely aging goof wondering what all the fuss is about. Read More »

Yay! It’s Friday! Which means it’s time for What We’re Listening To, a weekly roundup of the tracks that have been getting the repeat treatment in our office. After the jump, ten songs that Flavorpill staffers are loving right now, along with some light commentary on why we think they’re special (we hear A LOT of music ’round here). Enjoy and feel free to leave your own recent obsessions in the comments. Read More »