Underground Bands and Indie Music Reviews

His smash-hit cover of the Postal Service’s “Such Great Heights” on the soundtrack for the movie Garden State launched Sam Beam, or the front runner of Iron and Wine, into the spotlight. Past albums have had a very folky, solo acoustic essence to them that have put him on the map as one of the most popular indie artists of the past few years.

Iron and Wine’s newest venture, “Kiss Each Other Clean,” has a different sound than fans of the band may be used to. Many of the tracks seem a little bit less obscure and more easy to relate to, but they still have that independent and unique quality that followers of Sam Beam have come to love. “Tree By the River” is a melodic and beautiful tune that evokes thoughts of past loves and memories, whereas, the crooning “Half Moon” offers a sense of devotion and longing.

The power of the tracks on this album is undeniable, but it does offer a little bit more raw content than some of the past; there is even a content advisory on the cover. However, this can be expected, since Sam Beam never seems to hold back in his writing or performing. Other notable tracks include “Walking Far from Home,” “Big Burned Hand,” and “Glad Man Singing.” There is no doubt that Iron and Wine’s sound becomes more refined and interesting as new material is written, and it is predicted that fans will be very happy with this brand new view into Beam’s musical genius.

The Cold War Kids have taken a completely new approach with their newest release Mine Is Yours. The stripped down, bare bones, indie rock from the first album has been lost in a more modern alternative rock feel. The first song on the album and the title track “Mine Is Yours” displays the new feel best setting the stage for the rest of the tracks. There is more guitar, faster songs, and an overall louder sound as the first single “Louder Than Ever” seems to suggest. It would be a really good album to listen to in the car on a road trip. That might be a disappointment for fans of their first album Robbers and Cowards. Having said that, the band retains a lot of the blues feel of the past that seems to work perfect with Nathan Willett’s vocals. Overall this new sound works really well for them.

As far as lyrics go Mine Is Yours is a lot more personal. There has been a move away from the social issues of Robbers and Cowards in favor of songs about love and about growing up. They are still true to their Cold War Kids thought provoking lyrical style however. The standout tracks on this album are “Finally Begin,” “Bulldozer,” and “Sensitive Kid.” The whole album is a good listen though, there weren’t any tracks that make you want to hit the skip button. The only disappointment is that they chose to release “Louder Than Ever” as the single. It’s a good song but there are some much better candidates that would probably get them more attention. Overall the new sound is fun, there are a lot of great tracks, and the album as a whole is good. It will be interesting to see if this new direction gets them the attention they are looking for.

One of the most recognizable and historical buildings in downtown Salt Lake City is the old Union Pacific Depot. Built in the early 1900′s, it served as a main hub for the San Pedro, Salt Lake Railroad, and Oregon Short Line.

The history in this building is incredible, and though it is no longer used by Amtrak, it holds a special place in the hearts of visitors and natives alike. Union Station went through an extensive reconstruction in the 1970′s and is now an entrance to the Gateway Shopping District.

Interestingly enough, three floors of the old Union Pacific Station were bought and redesigned in 2006 into a restaurant and music venue, aptly known as The Depot. A talented crop of artists and bands have been asked to play at The Depot, including Zero 7, The Temper Trap, 311, The Black Keys, and Brandon Flowers.

Upcoming artists paying a visit to this Salt Lake hot spot are Slash, Amos Lee, Grace Potter and the Nocturnals, and Pete Yorn. Music buffs should definitely catch a show at The Depot, not only for the talent that graces the stage but for the amazing vibe that the venue has to offer!