Junior Senior - W R The Handclaps

Those who’ve yet to indulge in the squishy pop serenity of Hey Hey My My Yo Yo are missing out on what will likely become one of the most celebrated releases of 2005. The album is great start to finish, but “We R the Handclaps” manages to stand out a bit further than some of the others. Six of the record’s 11 tracks feature the Motown croon of ‘60s pop-soulstresses The Velvelettes. Group member Carolyn lends lead vocals to “We R the Handclaps.” Don’t expect anything along the lines of another “Move Your Feet.” “Handclaps” is pure guitar/keyboards-based disco-pop turmoil, and it’s likely one of the most fun numbers you’ve ever come across.

12/02 Copenhagen, Denmark – St. Vega
12/06 Tokyo, Japan – O-East
12/07 Tokyo, Japan – O-East
12/08 Nagoya, Japan – Club Quattro
12/09 Osaka, Japan – Namba Hatch

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Jneiro Jarel - Big Bounce Theory

Hip-hop newcomer Jneiro Jarel straddles sometimes thin line between broken beat electronics and Philly-based jazz-rap. “Big Bounce Theory” employs a hearty vintage synth orientation recalling the blurred incantations of Boards of Canada. While the lyrics and vocal delivery may be a few steps below the production value, the track holds up rather well. Beatwise, Jarel’s slightly rushed snare hits and jerky rhythmic structure come off like Madlib lite. But that’s not such a bad thing. Jarel’s debut full length Three Piece Puzzle drops on the 18th of October on Ropeadope.

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