Music

5 Must Hear Artists from CMJ Music Fest: Day 4

by Anne T. Donahue

Takka Takka

Further proof that Brooklyn is and always will be with it, Takka Takka have embraced the world of experimental indie fully, engineering a subtle yet distinctive sound that instantly peaks the interest of listeners while offering an all-inclusive, accessible vibe.  Having steadily earned followers since their debut in the mid-2000s, the five piece have continued to make their mark in North America and the UK, and with promises to introduce audiences to new material on their European tour next month, their show tonight at 11 at Bruar Falls is one you don’t want to miss.

Crocodiles

Though the UK post-punk scene may immediately spring to mind when hearing the Crocodiles, the San Diego-based duo simply serve to remind listeners that even sunny California can breed the emotional intensity needed to brew an engaging brand of shoegaze.  Having earned comparisons to the likes of The Velvet Underground and The Jesus & Mary Chain, members Brandon Welchez and Charles Rowell are currently in the midst of a North American tour in support of their sophomore release, Sleep Forever.  However, the band will likely make you want to do the opposite when they play tomorrow at 11 at the Bowery Ballroom.

Gold Panda

Following several EPs and months of waiting with baited breath, critics and listeners were treated to Gold Panda’s full-length debut, Lucky Shiner, last month.  And true to typical “highly anticipated-anything” form, upon its release, the UK solo artist’s efforts no longer remained a secret of the dance-happy underground.  With his distinct fusion of rhythm, beats and melodies earning praise from reviewers and audiences all over the world, you can forgive yourself for missing him (if you did) when he toured North America this past summer with HEALTH.  Gold Panda plays tonight at 7 at Webster Hall.

Smoke Fairies

Stirring harmonies, subtle instrumentals and a feeling of nostalgia for a place you’ve yet to visit define London’s Smoke Fairies, the UK-based duo of Katherine Blamire and Jessica Davies who’ve managed to merge the worlds of English folk and American blues through their warm and charming vibe.  Having just released their full-length debut, Through Low Light and Trees this September to overwhelming acclaim, the two-piece are gracing New York with a stop before embarking on a European tour later this month.  You can catch them tonight at 10:45 at Living Room.

Chapel Club

Fresh off the NME Emerge Radar Tour, London’s Chapel Club are adding further proof to the argument that the British Invasion is a continuous phenomenon.  Best known for their February single “Oh Maybe I”, the five-piece have promised fans they can look forward to an early 2011 release date for the band’s debut album, but until then, the group will be bringing their unique and updated take on British alternative back to Europe in support of Two Door Cinema Club throughout next month.  Make sure you catch them at tonight at 4:30 at The FADER Fort and at 11:20 at the Music Hall of Williamsburg. They’re also set to play Saturday at Urban Outfitters on Broadway at 3.

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