Thorcraft Cobra

The most vital syllable in Thorcraft Cobra’s metal-sounding band name is “craft” — contrary to windstorm of reverb-laden guitar-pop that has blown through L.A. in recent years, the music of Billy Zimmer and Tammy Glover abides a certain precision. Their make-every-note-count approach was displayed on their debut EP in 2010 and on the 2013 full-length “Count It In.” And they return with a similar batch of nuanced pop-rock on Jan. 27 when they release their sophomore album “The Distance.”

The duo says the album references a probably apocryphal story about President Abraham Lincoln, who supposedly said that it wasn’t remarkable that he was born in a log cabin and became the President; it was remarkable that he was born in a log cabin and became a lawyer. “I think about starting from behind in life and the distance that some of us travel to get to a multicultural world of ideas, rationality, science, empathy and art,” Glover says. “I’m from Buffalo, N.Y., and the distance in front of me will never be as profound as the distance I covered — physically, intellectually, emotionally, spiritually — to get here.”

Zimmer (once of the Brown Eyed Susans) and Glover (who drums for Sparks) made “The Distance” in a house where Ricky Nelson supposedly once lived, with producer Rob Schnapf, and he plays on the record along with contributors Brett Farkas (Lord Huron, Aimee Mann, Boys School), the Juno Award-winning engineer Russell Broom and Teddy “Zig-Zag” Andreadis (Carole King, Guns N’ Roses).

In the single “Caught in Between,” the duo prove that there’s not a single ounce of queasy ambivalence that a giant chorus won’t wash away. - Buzzbands LA

Canadian cold meets California cool on the pop-rock duo's debut album.
- Bands of the Day App

(Full 3 Page Feature included in the print edition)

Portraits Tammy Glover
The Sparks/Thorcraft Cobra drummer turns the old line “Don’t give up your day job” on its ear, balancing a corporate career with life in the fast lane. - Modern Drummer

Ever since Canadian icon Joni Mitchell crooned to return home to California, various Canadian musicians have had an intense fascination with the Golden State. Over the years many songs by our beloved Canadian rockers about drinking in California, losing California and even snowing in California? have emerged into our musical market. Artists like Winnipeg's Chantal Kreviazuk, and husband Raine Maida, waste no time boasting their L.A. life in interviews.

In recent time, this migration has been happening in reverse. Toronto band Snowblink is fronted by San Fransisco chanteuse Daniela Gesundheit. Together the now Canadian duo composes songs about old California dreams and "Unsurfed Waves".



Newly formed duo Thorcraft Cobra is self described as a Calgary outfit. Canadian native Billy Zimmer teamed up with Californian musician & TV producer Tammy Glover to form a rock band that derived from Canadian history and touches on American politics.

Call it a trend, or call it a coincidence but Canadian musicians will always have a love for California and it's nice to see the love reciprocated.

- CBC Music

Johnny Marr – Upstarts
Foals – My Number
Christopher Owens – Here We Go
BRONCHO – Try Me Out Sometime
Local Natives – Happy Feet
Yo La Tengo – I’ll Be Around
Night Beds – Ramona
Sallie Ford and The Sound Outside – Party Kids
Parquet Courts – Stoned And Starving
Clinic – King Kong
Nick Cave and The Bad Seeds – Jubilee Street
bentcousin – I Thing I Like Your Girlfriend More Than You
Foxygen – San Francisco
Veronica Falls – Teenage
Gliss – Hunting
Toro Y Moi – Rose Quartz
Cayucas – High School Lover
Bleeding Rainbow – Waking Dream
Thorcraft Cobra – Count Me Out
Ra Ra Riot – For Once
Atoms For Peace – Judge Jury Executioner
Widowspeak – The Dark Age
Ruby Suns – In Real Life - WXRT Chicago!

Thorcraft Cobra
Count It In
(Plaza Bowl)

"Party Clock"
- CMJ

Thorcraft Cobra
Count It In
(Plaza Bowl)

"Party Clock"
- CMJ

With a name that’s borrowed from frontman Billy Zimmer’s trusty old tube amp — a summer of ’69 special worth scouring the garage sale circuit for if you’re into warm tones and crunchy power chords — it should be no surprise that Thorcraft Cobra‘s sound is retro as well. Indebted to decades long gone, it prides hooks above all else, from the double-tracked choruses of “Count Me Out” to the teeth-gritting grooves of “Obsession.” It certainly doesn’t hurt when members of Redd Kross (Steve McDonald), Sparks (Russell Mael) and Sabrosa Purr (Will Love, Mahsa Zargaran) are waiting in the wings as special guests, either… - eMusic

Tuesday’s totes:

? It’s a night of local power pop at the Bootleg Bar. Thorcraft Cobra [check out "Count Me Out" and "Another Day"] headlines. Boys School and the Donnies the Amys support.
? The Satellite continues its week-long free show series with another solid local lineup featuring the Ross Sea Party, Line & Circle and Blonde Summer.
? Cotillon‘s residency resumes over at Harvard & Stone. This time they’re toting Criminal Hygiene and the Feature Leagues as openers.
? And Dim Mak Studios presents electro-cumbia fiesta fusion artist Toy Selectah (pictured) along with Mexicans With Guns, gLAdiator and Bones. - Buzzbands LA

Featured Artist: Thorcraft Cobra

Free Downloads from Episode 8

Thorcraft Cobra "Oh Melody" - Free Download (right click to save) - MTV

On January 8, 2013 Los Angeles-based pop-rock band Thorcraft Cobra will release their first full-length disc Count It In on Plaza Bowl Records & Tapes. For those not in the know, Thorcraft Cobra, named after a discontinued Canadian amp, consists of Billy Zimmer (lead vocals, guitars and bass) and Tammy Glover (drums and background vocals). They are an interesting combination said to be "part Canadian cold (Zimmer) and California cool (Glover)".

The two met while working on earlier projects for the now defunct Permanent Press record label. They had always planned to work together but it didn’t really happen until Glover returned from touring with Spark. Their debut disc, the eponymous EP Thorcraft Cobra was released over two years ago and climbed to number 13 on “The Top 50 Artists” list

On their new project, Count It In, they enlist the aid of an assortment of additional artists including: Will Love, Gigante and multi-instrumentalist Mahsa Zargaran of Sabrosa Purr. The album opens on their lead single “Count Me Out”. This one features strong pop guitar riffs. The accompanying music video was directed by Ross Novie (The Office, Arrested Development and Secret Girlfriend).

They slow things down a bit on “Another Day”. Not to be confused with the 1970 Paul McCartney tune or Rutles song, this is—like the bulk of the material here—a Thorcraft Cobra original. It features guest artist bassist Steve McDonald of Red Kross and sounds vaguely akin to classic Pink Floyd or even XTC.

One of the more obvious cuts to become a single is “Party Clock”. This fan favorite has been praised by critics and includes a guest appearance by The Sparks’ vocalist Russell Mael. This works well as a dance ditty too.

The next number is “True Love” which further demonstrates the tuneful twosome’s true talents. It is quickly contrasted by “Dark Willows, Bright Flowers”. It’s a slow song roughly reminiscent of Queensrÿche’s quieter musical moments.

The exploratory anthem “Black Swan (It's All Inside of You)” quietly follows here. It works quite well especially considering it follows the prior piece. The seventh selection, “Bemused, Bored and Deranged”, is highlighted by initially slightly rawer, less produced vocals and some trippy guitar work.

“Obsession” is a modern rocker which remains true to the twosome’s trademark although it still somehow stands apart from the others perhaps due in part to a change in rhythm and the chosen guitar riffs. More melodious music follows with “Oh Melody!” Once one listens to the track the most obvious question is just who is Melody and what did she do to get her own song?

The act slows things down a bit with an unapologetic number named “I'm Not Sorry”. This seems to be focused on a really wild night involving various vices and vixen. Yeah, the trouble with trouble is it generally starts out as fun. Still, sometimes we all deserve to have a crazy moment and not be judged and not have to apologize for it.

Another example of the group’s capabilities is “Forget the Photograph”. This one sounds a wee bit different perhaps because it was a collaboration between Thorcraft Cobra and another pair of writers Jochelson and Dattner. The brief psychedelic pop interlude, “I'm Putting Your Toys Away”, is mainly a musical mantra that precedes the noteworthy number “You'll Get Nothing" which was co-written with Love.

The closing cut, “Party Clock [Radio Edit]”, which, like many of the other cuts, is written in a classic rock style and yet retains distinctive elements of their own. What is interesting about this track is that the duo seems to be the kind of indie act that would object to radio stations in general since they tend to favor major labels. Yet here we find a track especially pared for airplay complete with sing-along lyrics that work well on commercial radio despite the fact that the performing pair has a college radio feel to them.

Indeed, this is an album that is in some way retro. Their musical influences surely must include acts such as The Beatles, Elliott Smith, Stevie Wonder and Radiohead and yet it’s subtle thus allowing them to retain a great degree of originality and vitality. This is perhaps their intention. One thing is certain, however, Thorcraft Cobra is working hard to make their music your “Obsession”. - Examiner

Hello, 2013. Nice to meet you. I hear you have some nice things in store musically. Today’s first L.A. Buzz Bands Show of the new year will be programmed accordingly — starting at 7 p.m. on KCSN (88.5 FM, streaming at KCSN.org), I’ll have new music from James Supercave, Hunter Hunted (two of the ex-Lady Danville guys), Thorcraft Cobra, Pop Noir, Night Terrors of 1927, Big Harp, Western Lows and more. Along the way, I’ll sprinkle in some tunes from bands playing shows this coming week, such as Pageants, Y LUV, Rival Sons and Mirror Talk, and finish things off with a lovely duet from Charlie Clark’s forthcoming EP. Tune in at 7 p.m.

After the jump, tonight’s playlist (subject to possible last-minute switcheroos):

James Supercave, “Television”
Hunter Hunted, “Keep Together”
Thorcraft Cobra, “Count Me Out”
Rival Sons, “Until the Sun Comes”
Pageants, “Musings of the Tide”
Nacosta, “Folie a Deux”
Night Terrors of 1927, “Dust and Bones”
Y LUV, “Driftin”
Mirror Talk, “Choose Life”
Pop Noir, “Temptation”
Western Lows, “Gave Away”
Big Harp, “You Can’t Save ‘Em All”
Cayucas, “Cayucos”
Charlie Clark, “Feel Something” - Buzzbands.LA, KCSN Radio

Is it still fashionable to refer to guitars as “crunchy?” Is it still fashionable to make crunchy power-pop? Thorcraft Cobra is doing it, and anybody who rekindled a romance with guitar-driven pop by latching on to Redd Kross’ 2012 album would do well to check out the L.A. duo’s full-length debut “Count It In” (out next week). It’s the handiwork of Billy Zimmer, the Canadian who arrived in L.A. over a decade ago with the beloved Calgary power-poppers Brown Eyed Susans, and Tammy Glover, who for the past decade has drummed for the legendary Sparks. “Count It In” is worthy of those lineages — big hooks, sharp lyrics and arm’s-length nods to their British Invasion and Paisley Underground influences. Indeed, Russell Mael of Sparks guests on “Party Clock” (a single from last year’s EP that earned the band some radio play), and the album also features contributions from Redd Kross bassist Steven McDonald and Sabrosa Purr’s Will Love and Mahsa Zargaran. - Buzzbands LA

Thorcraft Cobra are an unabashed power-pop band who've perfected the seemingly lost art of combining big, radio-friendly hooks with big, classic-rock guitars. Actually, Thorcraft Cobra are more a duo than a band, but they still have a full sound as singer-guitarist Billy Zimmer harmonizes with singer-drummer Tammy Glover on such catchy tunes as "True Love." Zimmer downshifts occasionally into more reflectively spacey, Beatles/Big Star–style tracks like the hazy "Another Day," but most of the time he belts out such harder and heavier anthems as "Count Me Out," riding the waves of Glover's stormy cymbal-bashing. Glover's serenely sweet vocals frost Zimmer's gruffer delivery with an icing of sugary melodicism that distinguishes Thorcraft Cobra from most rock bashers. On the pair's upcoming full-length album, Count It In, they're joined by guest stars including Sabrosa Purr's Will Love and even the fairly reclusive Russell Mael, Glover's former bandmate in Sparks. — By Falling James - LA Weekly/Voice Places

In 1946 Bobby Troup wrote the iconic song "Get Your Kicks on Route 66" and - for those too young to remember - Route 66 went from Chicago to Los Angeles, winding through the midwest and west before the interstate system was built. In it's time it was the one major road though mid-America, and because of this, it was more than just a highway, it was symbolic of a nation. It was the road thousand of aspiring actors took to Hollywood. When televisions were the new thing, Route 66 was America's main street. After the interstates were built, Route 66 faded away, now preserved only in photos and memories. But that has made it a symbol of the time when modern America was defined.
Like that great highway, Thorcraft Cobra's debut album "Count It In" cuts through the heart of modern American rock music, defining itself as a classic album with permanence and timeless relevance. Though there's a distinct classic feel to the band's overall sound, this isn't a retro album or a genre-reinvention, and the retro vibes don't pigeon-hole the band into any one defined space. Thorcraft Cobra will not be pigeon-holed!
Thorcraft Cobra is made up of Billy Zimmer and Tammy Glover who first met in previous projects while they were on Permanent Press Recordings. The two musicians always hatched plans to record together and, after a prolonged gestation (with Billy biding his time while Tammy toured the world and recorded with brothers Ron and Russell Mael, aka Sparks), Thorcraft Cobra finally came into being. Supported by a host of special guests, including Tammy’s Sparks bandmate Russell Mael and Sabrosa Purr’s Will Love, with Billy on guitars, bass and lead vocals, and Tammy on drums and BG’s, Thorcraft Cobra delivers analog hot and digital cool on their first full-length release.
Thorcraft Cobra’s "Count It In" showcases a classic rock and roll writing style and a distinctive sound. There's patience and pressure behind the notes, with a feeling that there is a massive reservoir of power fueling the band. Like the classic cars on that long lost Route 66, Thorcraft Cobra is a mean machine with refined style and an unstoppable V-8 motor under the hood. With styles for miles, this is a timeless album with permanence and power, Very Highly Recommended. - RustZine

In 1946 Bobby Troup wrote the iconic song "Get Your Kicks on Route 66" and - for those too young to remember - Route 66 went from Chicago to Los Angeles, winding through the midwest and west before the interstate system was built. In it's time it was the one major road though mid-America, and because of this, it was more than just a highway, it was symbolic of a nation. It was the road thousand of aspiring actors took to Hollywood. When televisions were the new thing, Route 66 was America's main street. After the interstates were built, Route 66 faded away, now preserved only in photos and memories. But that has made it a symbol of the time when modern America was defined.
Like that great highway, Thorcraft Cobra's debut album "Count It In" cuts through the heart of modern American rock music, defining itself as a classic album with permanence and timeless relevance. Though there's a distinct classic feel to the band's overall sound, this isn't a retro album or a genre-reinvention, and the retro vibes don't pigeon-hole the band into any one defined space. Thorcraft Cobra will not be pigeon-holed!
Thorcraft Cobra is made up of Billy Zimmer and Tammy Glover who first met in previous projects while they were on Permanent Press Recordings. The two musicians always hatched plans to record together and, after a prolonged gestation (with Billy biding his time while Tammy toured the world and recorded with brothers Ron and Russell Mael, aka Sparks), Thorcraft Cobra finally came into being. Supported by a host of special guests, including Tammy’s Sparks bandmate Russell Mael and Sabrosa Purr’s Will Love, with Billy on guitars, bass and lead vocals, and Tammy on drums and BG’s, Thorcraft Cobra delivers analog hot and digital cool on their first full-length release.
Thorcraft Cobra’s "Count It In" showcases a classic rock and roll writing style and a distinctive sound. There's patience and pressure behind the notes, with a feeling that there is a massive reservoir of power fueling the band. Like the classic cars on that long lost Route 66, Thorcraft Cobra is a mean machine with refined style and an unstoppable V-8 motor under the hood. With styles for miles, this is a timeless album with permanence and power, Very Highly Recommended. - RustZine

(Plaza Bowl) Yacht Rock on Quaaludes! And an inexplicable band name. In other words: winning formula! - Roctober Magazine

The Satellite hosts an ABBA tribute night tonight to celebrate the band’s 40th anniversary and singer Anni-Frid Lyngstad's birthday, which was Nov 15. Local bands take to the stage to perform a couple songs each: Psychic Friend (feat. Will Schwartz from Imperial Teen), Thorcraft Cobra, Sue Scrofa, IAMEVE, Boys School and others. Free admission. Show at 9 pm with $2 drink specials from 8-9pm. - LAist.com

A little while ago we sat down with our friends in Thorcraft Cobra for some dinner and polite conversation. Hear what they had to say about the Spice Girls and living the posh life. - Planet Verge.

RIGHT CLICK to DOWNLOAD Thorcraft Cobra’s “Party Clock” HERE! (listen below)

RSVP to see Thorcraft Cobra at Empty Bottle THIS WEDNESDAY for FREE!

With Thorcraft Cobra, Canadian cold meets California cool. Billy and Tammy first met in previous projects while they were on the same label — the now defunct, but influential, Permanent Press Recordings.

The two musicians always hatched plans to record together and, after a prolonged gestation (while Tammy toured the world and recorded with brothers Ron and Russell Mael, aka Sparks), Thorcraft Cobra finally came into being.

Released on Oct 26th, 2010, Thorcraft Cobra’s S/T EP has received great response at radio. In December 2010, Thorcraft Cobra reached #13 in America on The TOP 50 Artists at Specialty programming on Alternative Radio (KKBB - Dec 20, 2010); with their single, “Party Clock”, reaching #11 on the Alternative Specialty chart receiving spins on stations like KROQ and WXRT. The album also charted nationally on the campus/community Earshot chart in Billy’s native Canada. Listen up! - UR Chicago

Jackass 3D Premiere - KROQ.com

Jackass 3D Premiere - KROQ.com

The Big Beat is Chicago Radio’s premiere program for modern sounds from artists both domestic and abroad. Hosted by XRT’s Marty Lennartz, tune in each week to hear “what’s next” in Chicago’s Finest Rock. Here’s the playlist of the last Big Beat of 2010.

* Song – Artist
* Warpaint – Warpaint
* On The Corner – Twilight Singer
* Saying Goodbye – The Greenhornes
* Underwater 2 – Tyveks
* Marathon – Tennis
* God Bless Jim Kennedy – Phil Wilson
* God and Me – Kopecky Family Band
* Madder Red – Yeasayer
* Heartbreaker – Girls



* Big Beat Song of The Week:
* House Fires – Dragons Power Up!



* Freak Out – Tape ‘n Tapes
* Tree By The River – Iron And Wine
* I Can’t Wait – Twin Shadow
* Destroying To Save – Arboretum
* Chinatown – Destroyer
* Fleeta – Antony and The Johnson feat Bjork
* Get Up – Jonquil
* Party Clock – Thorcraft Cobra
* Apply – Galsser
* Boyfriend – Best Coast
* Caregiver – Memoryhouse
* Why Dont You Believe Me – Small Sins
- WXRT Radio Chicago

12.19.10 - New Music & Indie Show Playlist

Featured music from Social Distortion, Cage the Elephant & more

We Landed On The Moon - Across The Sun

Violens - Violent Sensation Descends

Twin Shadow - At My Heels

Thorcraft Cobra - Party Clock

The Ting Tings - Hands

Social Distortion - Machine Gun Blues

Modern Skirts - Bumper Car

Hank & Cupcake - Ain't No Love

The High Violets - Midnight's Child

Jenny And Johnny - Scissor Runner

Hello=Fire - She Gets Remote

Grandchildren - Everlasting

Cage The Elephant - Shake Me Down


The Heavy - How You Like Me Now?

The Energy - Go To Girl


All That Remains - Hold On

Expatriate - Crazy

Bear Hands - Crime Pays

Hollywood Undead - Hear Me Now

Eternal Summers - Pogo

Ima Robot - Ruthless

White Lies - Bigger Than Us

Marnie Stern - Transparency is the New Mystery

* First published on 12.20.10 at 9:30AM Updated on 12.20.10 at 9:31AM



Read more: http://www.1065.com/onair/Divakar/12.19.10-New-Music-Indie-Show-Playlist.html#ixzz19NlghyJO - 1065 The End, Charlotte

Mailbox header Image, Michael Byars

Joan Jett and the Blackhearts – Little Drummer Boy

Banjo or Freakout – Do You Hear What I Hear

Christopher Tolle – Merry Xmas Eve, Goodnight

Bewitched Hands – Christmas Tree

The Hush Now – On Holiday

Sharon Jones and the Dap-Kings – Ain’t No Chimneys in the Projects

Thorcraft Cobra – I’m Putting your Toys Away

Darker My Love – Snow is Falling

Deer Tick – Christmas All Summer Long

Crystal Antlers – 10,000 Watts

Best Coast/Wavves – Got Something For You

The Puppini Sisters – Last Christmas - Present Magazine.com

STATISTICS ARTIST AIRPLAY
Rank Overview 12-08-10(TW) 11-24-10(LW) 11-17-10(2W) Total
2W LW TW Peak Weeks Spins Stations Spins Stations Spins Stations Spins Stations
8 2 1 49 * THE DUKE SPIRIT 23 22 20 19 11 9 242 69
8 3 2 78 * CRYSTAL CASTLES 22 22 17 17 11 11 301 71
2 1 3 94 DECEMBERISTS 16 16 21 21 18 18 468 90
1 3 4 11 TAPES 'N TAPES 13 13 17 17 21 21 67 36
12 7 5 161 * SOCIAL DISTORTION 12 11 11 9 7 6 486 66
3 7 6 11 MY JERUSALEM 11 11 11 11 17 15 51 25
16 61 * WHITE LIES 11 11 2 2 267 49
13 5 7 22 FITZ AND THE TANTRUMS 10 10 13 13 6 6 69 30
14 11 134 * THE BLACK KEYS 10 9 7 7 5 5 801 117
6 4 8 36 THE THERMALS 9 9 14 14 13 13 205 51
4 8 9 36 DAFT PUNK 8 8 10 10 16 16 85 35
2 7 59 BELLE AND SEBASTIAN 8 7 11 11 18 17 248 61
6 7 8 HOLLERADO 8 8 11 11 13 13 51 21
17 15 138 * VAMPIRE WEEKEND 8 8 3 3 2 2 1021 113
8 8 122 ARCADE FIRE 8 8 10 10 11 10 783 104
3 7 14 YOUNG THE GIANT 8 8 11 11 17 17 85 34
10 9 10 89 BEDOUIN SOUNDCLASH 7 7 9 9 9 9 209 56
6 76 THE HEAVY 7 7 12 12 344 76
10 9 12 BAD BOOKS 7 7 9 9 9 9 64 26
5 7 6 GREENHORNES 7 7 11 11 15 14 46 24
11 11 11 147 KINGS OF LEON 6 6 7 7 8 8 970 112
5 7 114 COLD WAR KIDS 6 6 11 11 15 14 589 111
2 76 CAGE THE ELEPHANT 6 6 20 19 307 55
14 11 3 HELLO=FIRE 6 6 7 7 5 5 18 9
10 14 46 * MUMFORD AND SONS 6 6 4 4 9 8 267 53
73 * COLDPLAY 6 6 360 61
7 11 6 VIOLENS 6 6 7 7 12 12 54 28
11 15 12 46 * NEON TREES 5 4 3 3 8 8 250 46
3 6 92 MATT AND KIM 5 5 12 11 17 15 370 79
11 15 130 * THE NATIONAL 5 4 3 3 8 8 734 98
11 3 BREAKING LACES 5 5 7 7 13 8
23 * REVEREND PEYTON'S BIG DAMN BAND 5 1 40 12
12 9 92 MY CHEMICAL ROMANCE 5 5 9 7 7 7 257 41
5 8 19 CEE LO GREEN 5 5 10 10 15 14 73 28
17 4 * ABBY GOGO 5 2 1 1 8 3
13 61 * IRON AND WINE 4 4 123 42
18 13 13 THE IVY WALLS 4 4 5 5 1 1 21 9
22 * MYNABIRDS 4 3 47 17
17 14 45 FLORENCE AND THE MACHINE 4 4 4 4 2 2 162 38
2 * THORCRAFT COBRA 4 4 5 5
9 11 19 BEAR HANDS 4 4 7 7 10 10 85 23
12 9 8 THE LAST ROYALS 4 4 9 8 7 7 41 19
11 14 63 KLAXONS 4 4 4 4 8 8 317 83
15 13 39 SURFER BLOOD 4 4 5 5 4 4 231 49
10 14 19 WARPAINT 4 4 4 4 9 9 58 22
14 10 6 AWOLNATION 4 4 8 8 5 5 22 9
15 15 167 * BAD RELIGION 4 4 3 3 4 3 669 87
15 13 4 MODERN PARANOIA 4 4 5 5 4 4 23 15
1 D THE ELVES OF HEAVEN 4 4 4 4
65 * GORILLAZ 4 4 253 66 - Kiss Kiss Bang Bang E-Zine

Playlist 127
Galaxy 94.3 fm
110 mp3
3/4 diciembre 2010

www.myspace.com/galaxy_fm
www.twitter.com/galaxy_fm
galaxyfm@gmail.com

1. Antarctica Takes It! - Straight To Your Heart
2. April Smith & The Great Picture Show - Terrible Things
3. Arcade Fire - Modern Man
4. Ash - Arcadia
5. Ash - Carnal Love
6. Athlete - Back Track
7. Beat Radio - ...and in the end shoot back
8. Ben Folds & Nick Hornby - From Above
9. Best Coast - Boyfriend
10. Bleu - B.O.S.T.O.N.
11. Blueline Medic - Plight 217
12. Boy & Bear - Mexican Mavis
13. Bravestation - Colour Us With Youth
14. Citizen Smile - Go Ahead And Blow Up
15. Codeine Velvet Club - Hollywood
16. Destine - In Your Arms
17. Diamond Rings - Something Else
18. Dirty pretty things - Deadwood
19. Dogs die in hot cars - Lounger
20. Dream Band - Mr. Shaking And Pills To Judge
21. Engineers - In Praise Of More
22. Eternal Summers - Pogo
23. Eux Autres - Wind Me Up
24. Five Star Hotel - Minimal
25. Free Energy - Bang Pop
26. Frightened Rabbit - The Loneliness And The Scream
27. Fun. - Stitch Me Up
28. Glowbug - Wings Out
29. Green day - Going to Pasalacqua
30. Guilty About Girls - Candy Candy
31. Gypsy & the Cat - Jona Vark
32. Institut Polaire - We Can't Wait No More
33. Interpol - Always Malaise (The Man I Am)
34. Jenny & Johnny - Big Wave
35. Jimmy eat world - The Middle
36. Joey Ramone - What a wonderful world
37. John Vanderslice - I'll Never Live Up To You
38. Jonquil - It never rains
39. Jukebox The Ghost - Empire
40. Keane - Stop For A Minute
41. Kings Of Leon - Beach Side
42. Kisses - Kisses
43. Kyle Andrews - You Always Make Me Smile
44. Mando Diao - You can't steal my love
45. Manic Street Preachers - Auto-Intoxication
46. Matt & Kim - Block After Block
47. Meg & Dia - Down The Open Road
48. Mt. Desolation - Departure
49. My First Earthquake - Neon For You
50. Mystery Jets - Melt
51. Neon Trees - Wish List
52. Netherfriends - Brett Easton Ellis Novel
53. Novastar - Where Did We Go Wrong
54. Of Montreal - Like A Tourist
55. Oh Jollity - No Alexander
56. Oh No Oh My - Brains
57. Passion Pit - The Reeling
58. Paul Heaton - Ladder's Bottom Rung
59. Penguin Prison - The Worse It Gets
60. People Get Ready - Lions & Bears
61. Phoenix - Armistice
62. Ra Ra Riot - Too Dramatic
63. Rabbit! - Blue Sky
64. Royseven - Killer
65. Saves the day - I melt with you
66. Shihad - Sleepeater
67. Shout out louds - Please please please
68. Small Sins - Why don't you believe me?
69. Spoon - Sister Jack
70. Superchunk - Digging For Something
71. Tender Trap - Do You Want A Boyfriend
72. The Aeroplanes - This is my love
73. The Candle Thieves - My Little Room
74. The cribs - You're gonna lose us
75. The Crookes - Bloodshot Days
76. The Decemberists - Down By The Water
77. The departure - Don't come any closer
78. The Duke Spirit - Northbound
79. The Good Natured - Be My Animal
80. The Killers - Boots
81. The Kissaway Trail - New Lipstick
82. The kooks - Naive
83. The Libertines - Time for heroes
84. The Nerves - Hanging on the telephone
85. The One Am Radio - Credible Threats
86. The Pains Of Being Pure At Heart - Heart In Your Heartbreak
87. The real kids - All kindsa girls
88. The rifles - Peace and quiet
89. The Russian Futurists - Golden Years
90. The Russian Futurists - Hoeing Weeds Sowing Seeds
91. The Strokes - Barely legal
92. The sun - Lost at home
93. The Tins - Backbone
94. The Wedding Present - Our Lips Are Sealed
95. The Young Friends - Make Out Point
96. The Zutons - Valerie
97. Thorcraft Cobra - Oh Melody!
98. Two Door Cinema Club - You're Not Stubborn
99. Vampire Weekend - Cousins
100. Vampire Weekend - Giant
101. We Are Scientists - Nobody Move, Nobody Get Hurt
102. We Landed On The Moon! - Across The Sun
103. Werewolves - Corpses (Say You're Okay)
104. White arrows - Coming or Going
105. White Lies - Bigger Than Us
106. Whitley - Head, First, Down
107. Winter Gloves - Plastic Slides
108. Wombats - Lost In The Post
109. Young Liars - Marathon
110. Zolof - Plays Pretty for Baby
- Galaxy FM

Check the link... Number 132 for the month... Pretty sweet for an EP, and for a self release. I think we were the #8 or #9 self release for the month?? - Earshot.

#2... They're a half hour ahead of the rest of the world. They know what's up. - Earshot

Poison Ivy met up with Thorcraft Cobra's Billy Zimmer and Tammy Glover at New York's Houndstooth Pub last month to chat with the Los Angeles rock duo about their new EP, the key to understanding Guns N' Roses, and how they make it work as best friends in a band.

"It's always great to be able to show up with a beautiful tall blonde girl but not having the pressure of trying to impress her," Zimmer says, of hanging out with Glover.

"We met in other bands and were on the same label," Glover explained.

"I always admired his band and thought they had a really cool sensibility, so it seemed logical to work together."

TC's EP - an energetic, Foo Fighters-esque affair - has an inherently Los Angeles vibe, with tracks about everything from reluctance to commitment ("True Love") to a song about "Maxim models, cocaine, sex toys and the West Hollywood Sheriff's Department" ("I'm Not Sorry").

"That's the mellowest song on the record," Zimmer says.

"I guess I'm not into writing so much in metaphor or about characters."

"When I first moved to Los Angeles... the Guns N' Roses records... started to make complete sense to me. I always thought the records were absolutely amazing, but when you get to Los Angeles, you know exactly what they were getting at."

"L.A. can inspire to people to do great things, and the potential is there," Glover adds, referencing the darker elements on the record, "but of course it's a city of almost 10 million people, and not all of them are living their dream."

"Does Los Angeles mirror my own personal character flaws?" Zimmer said, sounding more like a statement than a question.

"Maybe the city and I are a good fit for each other." - Poison Ivy

#5, right between Luke Doucet and Arcade Fire - Earshot

#5, right between Luke Doucet and Arcade Fire - Earshot

The Los Angeles-based duo craft sunny California pop melodies on their debut EP. - Spinner.com

Thorcraft Cobra (Questions answered by Billy Zimmer)
http://www.thorcraftcobra.com

1. How did you get your band name?
I have a Thorcraft Cobra amp. It’s magnificent.

2. How did this band get started?
Tammy and I have known each other for a long time. With this project, I had a bunch of demos and played them for her, and she liked them. And we finished them together. And the rest is magic.

3. What bands are you influenced by?
Elliott Smith, The Beatles, Stevie Wonder, Prince, Radiohead, Manic Street Preachers, Foo Fighters, Supertramp, Sabrosa Purr, Zuckerbaby, Sloan.

4. If you could tour with any bands, past or present, who would they be and why?
Led Zepplin. Because – Christ – just to witness that circus would be AMAZING. Also – they fucking rule.

5. If you were a furry, what animal would you be? Why that animal?
I’m already furry enough. I guess if Natalie Portman had a little lap dog – I would want to be that furry animal.

6. Why should people listen to your band?
We’ll make them smarter, better human beings.

7. If you were chosen to be in Guitar Hero/Rock Band, what song would you want in the game? How hard do you think it would be to five-star on expert?
I guess "Party Clock" or "Obsession." Honestly, there’s no serious shredding or anything to be super difficult, but I think there’s some cool playing in those.

8. If you won a Grammy, who would you thank?
If I won a Grammy, I would thank my mom. And Tammy. And my friends Richard Jochelson and Jared Kuemper. Holla.

9. If you could change something about the music industry, what would it be?
I would embrace file sharing, and arrange a deal with the ISP’s involving tracking of file sharing and royalty payments being made to artists. Unfortunately, I’m sure that ship has sailed. So – I’d maybe just want radio to move away from focus grouping and only playing major label music. Imagine if real music lovers were program directors again and had autonomy? It happens somewhat on Satellite… Would be rad if there were truly great terrestrial commercial music stations.

10. Memorable tour experience?
Kurt from New Pornagraphers (then the drummer in Age of Electric) stealing a girl away from me in Saskatoon. I’m sure she and I would have had a beautiful and rewarding life together. Damn you Kurt. (Btw – that guy f’n rules. Great drummer)

11. What does AP.net mean to you?
Makes me feel like I should play louder, faster music.

12. What is your favorite song to play?
Probably "Obsession."

13. What is your vacation spot of choice?
NYC. Love the NYC.

14. What music reminds you of your childhood?
Neil Diamond. And Pink Floyd, The Beatles, Queen, etc. I had older brothers, so I had rad taste in music as a kid.

15. If you could have any super power, what would it be? Why?
I would be able to emit some ray that turns people like bright orange when they lie. Maybe I already have this power, but it only works on John Boehner.

16. Do you feel that your band has "made it"?
When we can play to 500 person + audiences in each of London, New York, Tokyo, Melbourne and Vancouver, that would be making it enough for me. I don’t need or want to be Axl Rose. I just want to touch some people. Good touch, good touch.

17. What is something that most fans don't know about you?
They don’t know yet that they’re my fans. Wait – that’s what they don’t know about themselves. Whatever – I like that answer.

18. What's your favorite holiday?
Canadian Thanksgiving. It’s in October, you know.

19. What do you like to do in your spare time?
Watch planes landing.

20. What kind of hidden talents do you have?
My talents are all overt. - Absolute Punk

We're very excited that Rodney was the 1st DJ in the world to spin Thorcraft Cobra, rocking 2 tracks (True Love and Party Clock) on his show the night of Sunday, Oct 3, 2010. - Rodney Bingenheimer/KROQ

We're very excited that Rodney was the 1st DJ in the world to spin Thorcraft Cobra, rocking 2 tracks (True Love and Party Clock) on his show the night of Sunday, Oct 3, 2010. - Rodney Bingenheimer/KROQ

This introductory release from Thorcraft Cobra, a duo featuring Billy Zimmer and Tammy Glover, is quite diverse. The effort begins with “Pretty Dilemma,” a brief and extremely understated plea for some desperately needed attention from an absent lover; depressed vocals and a weepy steel guitar background give an indication that Thorcraft Cobra might be an alt-country outfit.

“True Love” and “Obsession” though are modern rockers with a pleasant buoyancy, while “I’m Putting Your Toys Away” is a short and slightly psychedelic interlude where Zimmer and Glover dreamily repeat the song title’s words like a mantra while crystalline guitar tinkling envelops them. These songs, however, are going to have to take a backseat for now as The Thorcraft Cobra EP contains an attention hog in the form of “Party Clock,” an irresistible slice of pop perfection. Glover is also a member of the band Sparks, the long-running L.A. band who have come up with some gems over the years, and their influence on “Party Clock” is undeniable. The song has a ’70s-ish disco rock beat to it, not unlike Greg Kihn’s smash hit “Jeopardy,” and catchy, fun and somewhat campy sing-along lyrics (think Scissor Sisters) – exactly what’s needed to make it a favorite in dance clubs, on the radio and, certainly if a video is made, on big screens everywhere. - Campus Circle

On January 27, Billy Zimmer and Tammy Glover will release their new Thorcraft Cobra album. This time out, the pair enlisted Rob Schnapf (Beck, Foo Fighters) to produce the record, which they recorded in various LA studios. On The Distance Thorcraft Cobra enlisted Brett Farkas (Lord Huron, Aimee Mann), Russell Broom, Teddy “Zig-Zag” Andreadis (Carole King, Guns N’ Roses) and Schnapf to realize their layered, melodic sound. Thorcraft Cobra will support The Distance with shows at Hotel Café in Los Angeles on February 16 and New York’s Pianos on February 23.

Today we premiere “Killing Time“ from the forthcoming record. Zimmer tells Relix, “I was at SXSW a few years ago, and I was sharing a rental house with friends. On Mary St just off of South Congress. I wish I lived in that house. Anyway, a friend of mine was tour managing for Chelsea Crowell. Her band left their instruments in the house, and there was a guitar that used to be Rodney Crowell’s, and before that, freaking Johnny Cash’s. An old, old, Martin. I think a 000-28, which I recall had some words carved into the back, but I don’t remember what they were. I probably should have taken pictures. So, one night I was about to go out and see bands, but then I was like, ‘I can go out, or I can play this fucking amazing guitar.’ I chose to stay in, and I wrote ‘Killing Time.’ Like, all the changes and arrangement, the melody, and the lyrics of the pre-chorus. The whole “Is it a chemical reaction part”. Then, as tends to happen the rest of the lyrics took basically forever...

I knew right from the start that I wanted the lead guitar parts to be 12 string electric. Schnapf has a cool trick for electric 12's - using flat wound strings. Makes it nice and chimey. Hopefully it's ok if I give away one of his secrets. Also - Rob plays some killer slide and b-bender tele on the song. The slide parts were actually with an e-bow, so they're doubly slinky. I love how together the slide and b-bender creates this criss crossing wash of melody. Thematically? The allure of bad habits. And entropy. “

Read more: https://www.relix.com/media/photo/song_premierethorcraft_cobra_killing_time#1#ixzz4Wj1ek53e - Relix

As Thorcraft Cobra, Billy Zimmer (Brown Eyed Susans) and Tammy Glover (Sparks) combine a knack for concise pop songwriting, a gift for crafting immediately engaging melody, and impeccable taste in rock and roll sonics into something that is both fresh and undeniable.

They released a self-titled EP in November of 2010 that hit #13 at Alternative Radio, and in 2013 released their debut full length Count It In. The album features guest performances from some of the band’s friends including Russell Mael (Sparks), Steve McDonald (Redd Kross), Mahsa Zargaran (Puscifer, Big Black Delta, Omniflux) and Will Love (Sabrosa Purr).

When the time came to record the follow up the band turned to producer Rob Schnapf (Beck, Foo Fighters). Recorded in studios across Los Angeles and in a house that legend says once was home to Ricky Nelson, The Distance features musical contributions from Brett Farkas (Lord Huron, Aimee Mann), the Juno Award-winning Russell Broom, Teddy “Zig-Zag” Andreadis (Carole King, Guns N’ Roses) and Schnapf himself.

Glide is premiering “Carolina” (below) off The Distance (due 1.27.17), showcasing the sweet and seductive vocal prowess of Zimmer and the band”s knack for a power pop jewel. Making a song fit for rock ears, while maintaining a level of depth has become a lost art, but this partnership of Thorcraft Cobra is what their name conjures – polished, poised and seriously in the pocket. - Glide Magazine