Music

Chicago Underground Duo embarks on mini-tour of Midwest and East Coast

Long-time collaborators Rob Mazurek (Exploding Star Orchestra, Sao Paulo Underground, Mandarin Movie, and more) and Chad Taylor (Iron and Wine, Marc Ribot, and more) recently released their fifth album together as Chicago Underground Duo (Thrill Jockey). The album, entitled Boca Negra, is a combination of composed and improvised ambient grooves, highlighted by melodic bursts and the occasional understated ballad.

From today to September 19, Chicago Underground Duo will visit the Midwest, Eastern US, and parts of Canada. Full tour dates below.

Cougar: Naked, Mercurial Electro-Rock

With rangy stylistic influences, impressive chops, and “naked” production, Cougar‘s brand of electro-rock is as diverse as its members, whose tastes span progressive rock, Brazilian music, New Orleans jazz, and classical works.

Marnie Stern’s five favorite guitarists

Marnie Stern knows a thing or two about shredding. With two critically acclaimed albums under her belt and a new album, entitled Marnie Stern, out October 5 via Kill Rock Stars, Stern is easily one of the most technical and skilled female guitarists playing today.  Here are her five favorite axe-masters.

Also, take a listen to a cut of the forthcoming album, which features contributions from Zach Hill (Hella) and Matthew Flegel (Women), by listening to the song “For Ash” below.

Marnie Stern: “For Ash”
[audio:https://alarm-magazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/Marnie-Stern-For-Ash.mp3|titles=Marnie Stern – For Ash]

1. Mick Barr

“I always say Mick, and he will always be my favorite. The only way I can describe his playing is to say that your jaw will drop for the entire time you witness his terrific playing style. He has influenced me tremendously.”