Music

5 Must Hear Artists from CMJ Music Fest: Day 2

by Anne T. Donahue

We’re right in the thick of CMJ, and with over 1200 acts scheduled to appear, to say the schedule is overwhelming is more than an understatement. But fear not, we’ve got you covered. From now until Friday, we’ll be giving you five who, what, when, where, and whys a day. Here’s Day 2:

Yukon Blonde

Adding further testimony to this year’s “west is best” argument, Vancouver’s Yukon Blonde offer a futuristic alternative to standard indie, staying true to the rock ‘n roll conventions that dictate the classic genre while establishing themselves as a band that still takes risks.  Formerly known as Alphababy, the trio released their self-titled debut LP earlier this year to attention and accolades, and with one CMJ stop on their North American tour, they’re set to leave New York City charmed and interested.  They play tonight at Arlene’s Grocery at 11.

Braids

Safely situated in the buzz band stratosphere, Montreal’s Braids have played countless dates in celebration of their 2008 self-released and self-titled EP, and with their debut LP, Native Speaker, set to be released this January, the former Calgarians will undoubtedly remain a fixture on the minds of everyone music-oriented.  Luckily for CMJ attendees, the four-piece will be bringing their brand of experimental indie-pop to New York for a lengthy stay, with shows scheduled tonight at 10:30 at the Rock Shop, tomorrow at 6 at Arlene’s Grocery, Friday at 9:20 at the Cake Shop and two more on Saturday.

Dale Earnhardt Jr. Jr.

A testimony to the constant craving for ever-evolving experimental, the gentle harmonies of Joshua Epstein and Daniel Zott work to complement their electro folk-pop melodies, making Dale Earnhardt Jr. Jr. the 2010 equivalent of Simon and Garfunkel meets modern technology.  Hailing from Detroit, Michigan, the duo released their debut EP, Horse Power, earlier this year, and have since been on the hearts and minds of those with an affinity for classic pop updated.  Playing tonight at 7:30 at Bruar Falls and 11:30 at Santos Party House (downstairs), shows on Thursday at The Studio at Webster Hall and on Saturday at Mercury Lounge will only add to their ever-widening fanbase.

Kids of 88

They may categorize themselves as “a cross between a late 80s police drama intro theme and a sophisticated super hussy”, but New Zealand’s Kids of 88 have pioneered a sound that manages to make 80s-inspired pop feel fresh, new and relevant.  Having sprung to notoriety with their 2009 single “My House”, the duo have since released their debut full-length, Sugarpills, in August to further acclaim, and are proving to everyone that there’s more than enough room to dance.  The band play today at 3 pm at The Delancey and Friday night at 11 at Trash Bar.

Diamond Rings

A darling of the Toronto underground, Diamond Rings (John O’Regan) is no secret to North American and UK music aficionados, boasting a unique stage presence that perfectly complements his energetic and engaging brand of pop.  Subtle yet catchy, his flair for combining retro beats with interesting lyrics prevent the bubblegum feeling the genre’s previously been associated with, and with the release of his debut full length, Special Affections, later this month, he’s sure to make his CMJ appearances count.  Diamond Rings plays tonight at 10:30 at Santos Party House (downstairs), Thursday and Friday afternoon at the Knitting Factory, Friday at 5 at the Cake Shop and twice on Saturday.