Subterraneans Collective

Dextrous, diverse, and downright funky best describe the Hamilton, Ontario Canada based group known as the Subterraneans Collective.

What started out as a acoustic duo in 2003, formed by Jay Baggett & Jon “the Bassist” Busutti, has now turned into a versatile seven piece group that are often supported by "Collective" members ranging from soloist horn players to simple percussionists. This wide range of sound and genre gives their music unexpected, Shyamalan-esque  twists and turns, which adds excitement to the layers that eventually lead to a crisp, full, and stainless body of work.

Led by Jay Baggett  (Vocals, Guitar), David Abbey  (Drums, Vocals), Dave Reed (Keys,Vocals) and Jess Stone (Bass, Vocals), Subterraneans Collective recently opened their doors to new members and added Sam Klass, Tarek Ajak and Aerin Ellison, who lend their talents on Guitar, Sax/Flute and Trumpet respectively. After forming their new multi-faceted power collective, the Subterraneans released their 2010 debut, self produced, full length album, The Sinking Ship.

The Sinking Ship is a schizophrenic record laced with a wide range of musical moods: folk to reggae, shoegaze to pop, spaced out to funky. The band's respect and admiration for Tom Waits, Grateful Dead, and The Television blare throughout the LP, but are comfortably nestled in between the Collective's own genius, giving new life to old legends.

The band is now offering a double vinyl package that includes a free download copy of the album (which you’ll receive while the vinyl’s being pressed-- it might have already been pressed pre-bandsoup article [?]), as well as three brand new, unheard, unreleased and otherwise unavailable tracks. Right now is the best time to jump on this, as the price will go up in the not-too-distant future. You can order The Sinking Ship on the Subterraneans Collective's website here.

If you want a taste of Subterraneans Collective...

Check out "Devil May Not Care" on BandSoup.com!

Why Music Should Never Be Given Away for 'Free'

The music industry has changed DRASTICALLY. The latest trend: artists giving out their music for free, usually with a zip file link posted on their website, blog, twitter, or facebook account in hopes that the freebie will give their music more exposure or an opportunity to go "viral." MicControl founder Jon Ostrow explains to artists why they shouldn't give their music away for "free" and gives fantastic tips on how to receive e-currency for all of their hard work.  [Via TightMix]

Or, The Whale

Americana is a term that many use to describe red, white and blue nostalgia-- the collecting of flags, patriotic memorabilia, or any other artifact related to our country's storied history; however, to a music fan, it defines the melting pot genre of music that embodies the heart and soul of American ethos. Combining country, folk, rhythm & blues, and rock & roll, Americana (also referred to as Alternative Country) is baseball, hamburgers, hot dogs, Ford Model T's, and Elvis on a toasted bun.

San Francisco based Or, The Whale's 2009 ode to Jimson Weed, "Datura," is a perfect example of the genre and the feeling. Lead vocalist and guitarist Alex Robins struts over a beautiful arrangement full of folk chords, slide guitars, frolicking keys, and infectious harmonies from Lindsay Garfield; a poisonous combination powerful enough to make any listener hallucinate under a  sky of apple pie.

After the release of their critically acclaimed 2007 release Light Poles and Pines, and their 2009 self titled follow up, Or, The Whale continues to woo music enthusiasts around the US with their complex yet polished sound. With the growing popularity of bands like Fleet Foxes, Blitzen Trapper, and The Avett Brothers, it's only a matter of time before San Francisco's best kept secret is revealed...and then treasured like polaroids, stamps, and old family recipes.

Listen to their single "Datura" on BandSoup by clicking here!

Keep up with the band/purchase music here.