[News] Wild Nothing Announces New 'Empty Estate' EP

Wild Nothing's sophomore album Nocturne was a blissful dreamscape, seemingly overlooked as one of last year's great dream pop records. Jack Tatum quickly returns, bringing us a new EP titled Empty Estate. Recorded this past January, the EP sees Tatum "exploring new sounds, new instruments and a new voice for Wild Nothing."

"A Dancing Shell" is our first sense of what to expect from the seven-track EP, a bright track glistening with snythesizers. The bassline alone is fantastic, plucking along with confidence. Tatum's vocals are also much more expansive than before, drifting from monotone deepness to reverbed airiness. I like what I'm hearing. Check out the song below alongside it's colorful, geometric video.

Empty Estate Tracklist:
01. The Body In Rainfall
02. Ocean Repeating (Big-eyed Girl)
03. On Guyot
04. Ride
05. Data World
06. A Dancing Shell
07. Hachiko

[Watch] Wild Nothing - "Paradise" (Official Video)

Indie darling Jack Tatum, better known by his stage name Wild Nothing, recruits the equally, if not more so, darling Michelle Williams (Dawson's Creek, Brokeback Mountain, Shutter Island) in the video for the Nocturne single "Paradise". Tatum's deep, sprawling vocals and groovy basslines sweep over footage of Williams' journey to paradise (apparently paradise is Niagara Falls). Williams is a perfect fit for the video, perhaps even elevating it beyond what it could have been, as she evokes an effervescent charm with her calm demeanor and a well-timed reading of an excerpt from Iris Murdoch’s novel A Word Child. Watch it above.

[SKOA Presents] Some Kind of Mixtape: August 2012

Things are slowly but steadily starting to cool off as summer comes to an end. It seems once we all stopped running around doing our collective festival and bar hopping that we all were able to focus on things that we've been missing out on that we hold dear to our hearts. For Shey, he was missing sweet ass guitar riffs, Rocko was in dire need of a new P.O.S. & Kid Koala fix, I've missed obsessing over vocalists and Adrian was keeping his ear to the ground for some rich new sounds from bands both new and old(er). Thanks to Shey, I can happily say this is one of the louder mixtapes that we've done in awhile. With that said, please enjoy Some Kind of Mixtape: August 2012. Make sure you follow us on 8tracks and let us know what you think of our picks!

<3 your SKOA fam,

kibbe, rocko, shey & adrian

Some Kind of Mixtape - August from skoablog on 8tracks Radio.

Biffy Clyro - "Stingin' Belle"

When a band releases a single ahead of an album, especially when it's a band you hold close to your heart you can't help but be a little nervous. With Biffy Clyro, they're about to follow up the highly successful Revolutions with Opposites recorded with Garth Richardson. The aforementioned first single is titled "Stingin' Bell" and it opens up with a ferocity of early Biffy yet it grows into an arena filling track, even casually throwing in bag-pipes like it's no big deal in the bridge. It's fair to say after the first listen I was happy that the band were back on top form and hadn't slowed their ever growing pace. I expect big things next year upon the release of the album.—Shey

Plugs - "Set Fire"

I've been on this band's bandwagon since day one when frontman Morgan Quaintance announced that he was leaving Does It Offend You, Yeah? and be working on new music with his band, Plugs. After about 3-4 years since they emerged on the scene, Plugs have finally released their self titled debut earlier this week and it does not disappoint. Check out the rocking track "Set Fire" off their new album. - Rocko

Bloc Party - "We Are Not Good People"

Bloc Party's triumphant return happened a few weeks ago with the release of their long awaited album, Four. The track I've picked from their album is the last on the album and after my first play of the LP in full it just stuck with me. A brash and in your face riff heavy track that I did not expect. I say that yet others on the album like "Coliseum" and "3x3" are also 'big' but this, "We Are Not Good People" is just phenomenal. I've always loved these guys and this is just an awesome track from and awesome band. Pick up their album if you haven't already!—Shey

Big Black Delta - "Betamax"

Team SKOA fell pretty hard for Big Black Delta when BBDLP1 was released last year, so naturally when some of the songs were being re-released as part of his tour EP for his recent tour where he was supporting Janes Addiction, M83 and even headlining some shows himself I jumped at the chance to re-state just how much we love "Betamax". Between the dark sensual synths and singer Jonathan Bates' chilling falsetto in the chorus, it's hard for your heart to not feel lighter and to find your hips involuntarily swaying. - Kibbe

Young Cairo - "Ghosts"

Although relatively unknown and yet to release more than a single song, Young Cairo has incredible talent. The moment I heard his debut single "Ghosts", I was immediately sold. From start to finish the song is pure fun, a relentless barrage of summery guitar riffs and energetic vocals. This is the kind of song that would perfectly soundtrack a day at the beach, with waves crashing, people laughing, and good times to be had all around. Not too shabby for a debut.—Adrian

Trash Talk - "F.E.B.N."

Trash Talk are set to make some noise in October when they release the follow up to Eyes & Nines, and last year's EP Awake, in the shape of 119. Our first taste of that album is 1 and a half minutes of in your face bass heavy hardcore that will make you want to stomp your feet and smash things. I got introduced to these guys a few years ago by a friend and after witnessing their chaos in a live setting shortly after I was converted into a fan. More energy than a kid after 3 packs of Smarties. Very much looking forward to the LP's release.—Shey

Birds & Batteries - "Be My Girl"

From their latest album Stray Light, "Be My Girl" is one of the most beautifully heavy songs I've heard in a good while. With every thud of the bass and the sincerity in singer Mike Serpent's voice it manages to slowly start tugging away at your heart strings. If you manage to catch them on their current tour I highly recommend it. You can have a look at dates here. - Kibbe

Wild Nothing - "Paradise"

Wild Nothing's sound has always been grounded in '80s nostalgia, and his sophomore album Nocturne hasn't lost that one bit. In fact, it is even more wrapped up in this nostalgia than his debut LP Gemini. The song "Paradise" is a shining example of this. Beginning with sweeping wave synths and deep, groovy basslines, the track evokes all kinds of '80s-influenced goodness. Catchy rhythmic guitar riffs, strangely alluring flutes, and Jack Tatum's deep, wandering voice all work amazingly well together, resulting in five-and-half-minutes that you will want to repeat over and over again.—Adrian

P.O.S. - "Bumper"

Our favorite Doomtree returns with a vengeance with the first single from his upcoming album, We Don't Even Live Here. Much like his previous single "Drumroll" off the album Never Better, P.O.S. continues to push the envelope with his style of punk and hip hop and this time around adding a lil electronic/industrial feel to his sound. After hearing just one track from his new album I, myself am on the edge of my seat anticipating the release of the new album and the always entertaining live show from P.O.S. and crew. - Rocko

Kid Koala - "8 bit blues (Chicago to LA to NY)"
As some may already know, i'm a big fan of innovative DJ/Producers who continue to push their craft beyond just the basic mixing and scratching of hip hop tracks (i.e. DJ Shadow, RJD2, Dan The Automator). So of course it comes to no surprise that we wouldn't be excited for Kid Koala's upcoming LP 12 Bit Blues. The new album has 12 wonderful tracks mixed with dirty drum breaks, soulful blues and Koala signature scratch technique and feels like what I would have on repeat if I owned a modern day Saloon. Check out one of the first tracks from the album, "8 Bit Blues" and make sure you pick this album when it drops later this month. - Rocko

Grizzly Bear - "Yet Again"

Every song from Grizzly Bear's upcoming album Shields has already proven that the Brooklyn outfit is expanding their sound, exploring more aggressive avenues and tinkering with their old formula. "Yet Again" fits right into the band's new mentality, never letting go from the moment the first drum kick hits. Every high and low moment is never without a dazzling array of instrumentation, drawing you deeper and deeper into the brash soundscape they have created. If "Yet Again" is any indication, Shields looks to be the most impressive Grizzly Bear project to date.—Adrian

Ultraista - "Bad Insect"  

I am nothing short of delighted to have been caught up to speed on Nigel Godrich's latest project, Ultraista. There is something about their latest single, "Bad Insect" that feels so oddly familiar but in the best of all possible ways. Something in Laura Bettinson's voice is so interesting and calming at the same time that it just sort of makes me want to put the track on repeat for about an hour. The song comes from the bands forthcoming self-titled debut that is scheduled to drop on October 2nd courtesy of Temporary Residence. Additionally the band has some dates coming up in the US that would be foolish to miss out on. - Kibbe

[Listen] Wild Nothing - 'Nocturne' (Full Album Stream)

One week ahead of its release, Wild Nothing's sophomore LP has been given the preview treatment with a full album stream. Premiering on Dazed Digital, the 11-track Nocturne can be heard in all its glory, with Jack Tatum delivering one amazing track after the other. Head over to Dazed Digital to stream the entire album.

Nocturne is out on August 28th via Captured Tracks, and below you can check out the full tracklisting for the LP.

Nocturne Tracklist:
01. Shadow
02. Midnight Song
03. Nocturne
04. Through the Glass
05. Only Heather
06. This Chain Won’t Break
07. Disappear Always
08. Paradise
09. Counting Days
10. The Blue Dress
11. Rheya

[Listen] Wild Nothing - "Paradise"

Wild Nothing is set to release his sophomore LP Nocturne in only a matter of weeks, and so far we've only heard the lead single, "Shadow". Now, the bedroom pop artist has let loose another track from the forthcoming effort, a fluid, entrancing cut called "Paradise". Stream and download the chilled-out number below.

Nocturne is out on August 28th via Captured Tracks.

[News] Wild Nothing Announces Fall Tour with DIIV, Six Alternate Covers for 'Nocturne'

Jack Tatum, aka Wild Nothing, will hit the road this fall in support of his forthcoming sophomore LP Nocturne, which is set for release at the end of August. Following Wild Nothing's summer tour opening for both The Walkmen and Beach House, the fall leg will see Tatum opening for Brooklyn indie band DIIV, with proceedings kicking off on September 3rd in Santa Barbara, CA. Check out his full tour itinerary after the jump.

Nocturne is out on August 28th via Captured Tracks, and above you can see the six alternate versions of the album's cover. For those who purchase the album on vinyl, they will have the option to choose one of these six variations.

 Wild Nothing 2012 Tour Dates:

07/20 – Columbus, OH @ Newport Music Hall #
07/21 – Millvale, PA @ Mr. Small’s Theatre #
08/04 – Chapel Hill, NC @ Local 506
08/05 – Richmond, VA @ Strange Matter
08/06 – Baltimore, MD @ Ottobar
08/09 – New York, NY @ Pier 84 (River Rocks) $ *
08-27 – Memphis, TN @ The Hi Tone Cafe
08/28 – Dallas, TX @ Club Dada
08/29 – Austin, TX @ Red 7
09/02 – Los Angeles, CA @ FYF Fest
09/03 – Santa Barbara, CA @ SohO Restaurant and Music *
09/04 – Santa Cruz, CA @ Catalyst Atrium *
09/05 – San Francisco, CA @ Great American Music Hall *
09/07 – Vancouver, British Columbia @ Venue *
09/08 – Portland, OR @ Musicfest NW *
09/09 – Seattle, WA @ Neumo’s *
09/12 – Denver, CO @ Larimer Lounge *
09/13 – Lawrence, KS @ Jackpot Music Hall *
09/14 – Omaha, NE @ The Sandbox *
09/15 – Minneapolis, MN @ Triple Rock Social Club *
09/16 – Chicago, IL @ Empty Bottle *
09/17 – Detroit, MI @ The Magic Stick *
09/18 – Toronto, ON @ The Great Hall *
09/19 – Montreal, QC @ II Motore *
09/20 – Boston, MA @ Brighton Music Hall *
09/24 – Philadelphia, PA @ Union Transfer *
09/25 – Washington, DC @ Rock and Roll Hotel *
09/26 – Charlottesville, VA @ The Southern *
09/27 – Asheville, NC @ Grey Eagle *
09/28 – Nashville, TN @ Exit/In *
09/29 – Atlanta, GA @ 529 *
10/29 – Dublin, IE  @ Vicar Street %
10/30 – Manchester, UK  @ The Ritz %
11/01 – London, UK @ HMV Forum %
11/02 – Paris, FR @ Pitchfork Music Festival
11/03 – Amsterdam, NL @ Paradiso
11/06 – Copenhagen, DK @ Pumpehuset
11/07 – Malmö, SE @ Debaser Malmö
11/09 – Stockholm, SE @ Debaser Medis
11/11 – Helsinki, FI @ Juudes Linja
11/13 – Hamburg, DE @ Mondial Club
11/14 – Bremen, DE @ Kulturzentrum Lagerhaus
11/15 – Berlin, DE @ Death By Pop Club
11/16 – Dresden, DE @ Puschkin Club
11/17 – Frankfurt, DE @ Das Bett
11/18 – Darmstadt, DE @ Bedroomdisco
11/19 – Stuttgart, DE @ Keller Klub
11/20 – Munich, DE @ 59:1
11/22 – Rome, IT @ Circolo degli Artisti
11/23 – Bolonga, IT @ Covo Club
11/24 – Luzern, CH @ Südpol
11/25 – Colonge, DE @ Gebäude 9

# with Beach House
$ with Grimes
* with DIIV
% with The Walkmen

[News] Wild Nothing Announces New Album: 'Nocturne'

Earlier this year, Wild Nothing, the shoegaze dreampop project of Jack Tatum, released the "Nowhere" 7" Single, along with its accompanying b-side "Wait," and now he has announced details regarding the follow-up to 2010's Gemini. The album is titled Nocturne and is set for release on August 28th via Captured Tracks, and the lead single from the sophomore effort, "Shadow," is streaming after the jump.

Throughout the summer and the fall, Wild Nothing will be touring alongside Beach House and The Walkmen, so make sure to check out their full tour itinerary after the jump, along with the tracklisting for Nocturne.

Nocturne Tracklist:
01. Shadow
02. Midnight Song
03. Nocturne
04. Through the Glass
05. Only Heather
06. This Chain Won’t Break
07. Disappear Always
08. Paradise
09. Counting Days
10. The Blue Dress
11. Rheya

Wild Nothing 2012 Tour Dates:
06/26 – Birmingham, AL @ Bottletree
06/27 – Jackson, MS @ Morning Bell Records & Studios
06/29 – El Paso, TX @ Lowbrow Palace
07/01 – San Diego, CA @ House of Blues *
07/03 – Los Angeles, CA @ El Rey Theatre *
07/06 – Aspen, CO @ Belly Up Aspen *
07/07 - Albuquerque, NM @ Sunshine Theater *
07/09 – Tulsa, OK @ Cain’s Ballroom *
07/10 – Lawrence, KS @ Liberty Hall *
07/11 – St. Louis, MO @ The Pageant *
07/12 – Memphis, TN @ Minglewood Hall *
07/17 – Indianapolis, IN @ The Vogue *
07/18 – Pontiac, MI @ The Crofoot Ballroom *
07/19 – Cleveland, OH @ House of Blues *
07/20 – Columbus, OH @ Newport Music Hall *
07/21 – Pittsburgh, PA @ Mr. Small’s Theatre *
08/09 – New York, NY @ Pier 84 #
10/29 – Dublin, IE @ Vicar Street !
10/30 – Manchester, UK @ Ritz !
11/01 – London, UK @ Forum !

* = w/ Beach House
# = w/ Grimes and DIIV

[News] Beach House Announce Summer Tour Dates

With the May 15th release of Beach House's highly anticipated fourth studio album Bloom only a week and a half away, it seems a fitting time for the Baltimore dream pop outfit to announce more U.S. tour dates in support of the release. Starting on July 1st, Beach House will tour throughout the States with Wild Nothing tagging along in the support role. The final show of this leg of their tour is on July 21st in Pittsburgh, after which the band will perform at New York's Central Park Summer Stage. The dream pop pioneers have also scheduled an album release show in New York on May 15th, the day Bloom is set for release. Check out their full tour schedule after the jump.

Beach House 2012 Tour Dates:
05/04 – Charlottesville, VA @ Jefferson Theatre
05/05 – Carrboro, NC @ Cat’s Cradle
05/06 – Charleston, SC @ Music Farm
05/08 – Miami Beach, FL @ The Fillmore
05/09 – Orlando, FL @ Beacham Theater
05/10 – Jacksonville, FL @ Freebird Live
05/11 – Birmingham, AL @ The Bottletree
05/12 – Athens, GA @ Georgia Theatre
05/13 – Asheville, NC @ The Orange Peel
05/15 – New York, NY @ Bowery Ballroom
05/23 – Brighton, UK @ The Haunt
05/24 – London, UK @ Village Underground
05/25 – Belgium, BE @ De Kreun
05/26 – Amsterdam, NL @ Melkweg
05/27 – Berlin, DE @ Volksbuhne
05/29 – Paris, FR @ Maronguinerie
05/31 – Dudingen, CH @ Bad Bonn Kilbi Festival
06/02 – Barcelona, ES @ Primavera Sound
06/03 – Montpellier, FR @ Le Rockstore
06/04 – Bordeaux, FR @ Theatre Barby
06/05 – Nantes, FR @ Stereolux
06/06 – Lyon, FR @ Epicrerie Moderne
06/07 – Blarritz, FR @ L’Atabal
06/08-09 – Porto, PT @ Optimus Primavera Sound
07/01 – San Diego, CA @ House of Blues *
07/03 – Los Angeles, CA @ El Rey Theatre *
07/06 – Aspen, CO @ Belly Up Aspen *
07/07 - Albuquerque, NM @ Sunshine Theater *
07/09 – Tulsa, OK @ Cain’s Ballroom *
07/10 – Lawrence, KS @ Liberty Hall *
07/11 – St. Louis, MO @ The Pageant *
07/12 – Memphis, TN @ Minglewood Hall *
07/13 - Louisville, KY @ Forecastle Festival
07/15 – Chicago, IL @ Pitchfork Music Festival
07/17 – Indianapolis, IN @ The Vogue *
07/18 – Pontiac, MI @ The Crofoot Ballroom *
07/19 – Cleveland, OH @ House of Blues *
07/20 – Columbus, OH @ Newport Music Hall *
07/21 – Pittsburgh, PA @ Mr. Small’s Theatre *
07/23 – New York, NY @ Central Park Summer Stage
08/31-09/02 – North Dorset, UK @ End of the Road Festival 

* = w/ Wild Nothing