These Bands Have a Unique Sound
Die Antwoord
Die Antwoord goes hard. They go much harder than most of the rap on American radio waves today, at least. American rappers have become doughy with materialistic “ladies money fame” raps over the last decade, producing more ads for patron and ciroc than actual masterpieces. These childhood friends from South Africa challenge the lyrical malaise that has settled over the American hip hop community in recent years, and brings to the table an avant-garde, yet rewardingly gritty take on the genre as a whole.
Yolandi Visser is a tiny, pale girl with a raw, cutting vocal talent, and is perfectly offset by the guttural flows of her friend Ninja ( whose real name, Watkin Tudor Jones, is way cooler). Backed by funkadelic thrash beats of one DJ Hi-Tek, they are currently in the midst of a European tour. Do yourself a favor and check out their music video “I Fink You Freaky” on YouTube, or check them out the next time they come to town.
Gogol Bordello
Though they may be slightly dated, these guys have an interesting sound that is still very relevant today. Gogol Bordello is a unique creature in the music world. As an amalgamation of various, flavorful cultures, Gogol Bordello captures the essence of community and celebration in the most unexpected ways. With a style that they label Gypsy Punk, the band consists of Ukrainian front man Eugene Hutz (think emaciated gypsy from The Hunchback of Notre Dame), Two Russians on accordion and violin, and a dozen other highly talented musicians from around the world that have filled in spots since the band’s inception in 1999.
They also have one of the most intense stage acts on the road today. Whether it’s the Ecuadorian man beat boxing in the background, the girls dancing with drums, or the demented vocalist spitting wine into the crowd, Gogol Bordello always delivers an electrifying experience, tinged with old world character.
For one of the best partying songs in the world, check out their music video “Start Wearing Purple,” and if you’re in the area, see them on their world tour at the Egyptian Room in Indianapolis on June 7th.
Max Rodriguez
Features Contributor
Are you listening to these guys yet?
Alternative/Indie Rock fans please pay attention…if you have not listened to or heard of the band Alt-J yet, you should really consider reading this article and then immediately drop it to go and listen to them. Seriously. The British Indie Rock band, Alt-J, just released their debut album titled An Awesome Wave to North America in September of 2012. Their album contained two singles that really impacted the United States. The track “Fitzpleasure” was often played over local radios, especially on the new hit station Q87.7. “Fitzpleasure” officially peaked at #27 on the United States charts.
Shortly after their exposure to the US with “Fitzpleasure,” Alt-J’s next single “Breezeblocks” went over very well to listeners across the country. “Breezeblocks” actually surpassed “Fitzpleasure” on the charts with a #19 placement on the US charts. Although these singles are great, they are, in no way, shape, or form, the prized tracks of the album. The album, in my opinion, is complete gold from the first track to the last. I have listened to the album straight through without pause, only to find myself doing it all over again. Every single track is perfectly crafted and creates such a unique and distinct sound only claimed by Alt-J.
If An Awesome Wave is the standard for Alt-J and their upcoming music, I highly recommend you listen to every track this band releases. If you truly enjoy Alternative or Indie music, you will not, repeat, will not, be disappointed in Alt-J.
Also, check out Alt-J’s website for current tour date information and future Alt-J related news; or check them out on Twitter @alt_J. This band is only just starting their career, and they have set the bar high. I believe their upcoming music will again ease the ears of any music lover and will continue to add to the Alt-J fan base.
Frank Markasovic
Sports Editor