2018 The Albums: Honorable Mentions

via GIPHY

Last week we broke the news that the site was going on hiatus but we did promise that each year we will continue to roll out year end lists. 

So it begins.....the rollout of various music lists from us as we look back at the year that was and present our picks for the most recognizable albums of the year.

It has become a Thanksgiving weekend tradition for us to issue our first year end list -- Honorable Mentions. This is the first of three lists we will bring out over the next three weeks, next week we will present our coveted League of Their Own and then finally, the Top 10 albums of the year. Here we go -- our Honorable Mentions, albums that were very good, but not good enough to crack the Top 10 but still worth of note. 

As we always do, we breakdown the list in short form and then with explanations.

 

2018 Honorable Mentions in Short Form (In No Particular Order):

 

- Nas "Nasir"

- Internal Bleeding "Corrupting Influence"

- Editors "Violence"

- Albert Hammond Jr. "Francis Trouble"

- Blu & Nottz "Gods in Spirit, Titans in the Flesh"

- The Good, The Bad, and The Queen "Merrie Land"

 

 Now, in Long Form (In No Particular Order):

 

 Nas - "Nasir"

 

Nas fell into the Kanye West production hole that many artists did this year and while some of the releases were hit or miss, the Queens emcee came out with his follow-up to 2012's instant classic, "Life is Good," and handed a solid album to fans. While critics were mixed on some of the messages Nas was saying about vaccinations and failing to address allegations set forth by his ex-wife, the rapper lyrically may have played it safe on some songs but on others like "Not for Radio," "Cop Shot the Kid," and "Bonjour," the legendary rapper flexed over vicious West beats. It was a grand combination that yes, could have been grander, however, with another album allegedly in the can by Nas, "Nasir" was a taste of what seems to be coming. 

 

 Internal Bleeding - "Corrupting Influence" 

 

The Long Island slam-core icons returned with not only the most brutal and intense release of 2018 but their greatest album to date. Following the death of long time drummer Billy Tolley, the band could have called it quits or could have rested on their laurels but instead they channeled the spirit of their fallen brother and crafted a record that is not only shaking up heaven but one that also frightens the devil himself. "Corrupting Influence" not only pays homage to Tolley is also hits on the society we live in today thanks to themes of selfishness, loneliness, and always looking for something more. 

 

 

 

 Editors - "Violence"

Editors have been on a rocky path for 8 years thanks to various line-up changes, alterations in sound and style, but also trying to figure out their place in music after the hype around them settled. After 8 years, they not only threw their own rule book out the window the finally sound like a band who are comfortable with who they are and what they have become. "Violence" is the British band's best album since "In This Light and On This Evening" and the gap between the two records were clearly growing pains to get to where they wanted to be and for fans, it was well worth the wait. 

 

Albert Hammond Jr. - "Francis Trouble" 

Albert Hammond Jr. has been releasing quality solo records since 2006. While he has always lived in the shadow of being the guitarist of The Strokes, after 12 years he finally sounds comfortable with not just that title but being a solo artist as the band continues to be on hiatus. "Francis Trouble" is a deeply personal and tragic record about his family in which he tells the story about finding out later on in life that he was supposed to be a twin but his brother died in the womb. The child was to be named Francis, whom Albert paid tribute to in title and song. The album, which dealing with heavy themes, does in fact have a summer time light feel to it and as you bopping around to dense lyrics but all equipped with perfect pop hooks. 

Blu & Nottz - "Gods in Spirit, Titans in the Flesh" 

While this album is sorta cheating in effort to get on this list, it is so good they managed to break the rules. The very underrated West Coast rapper Blu and equally underappreciated Virginia producer Nottz released two EPs in 2013 and 2016 respectively,
"Gods in Spirit, Titans in the Flesh" is the combination of both of them in one package bringing fans the 90s throwback hip-hop vibe of boom bap and soul. The songs were reorganized in a much more logical song order telling the story of their underground musical dominance while bringing in couple new songs to the mix that were not featured on either EP. 

 

 

The Good, The Bad, and The Queen - "Merrie Land" 

The supergroup of Blur / Gorillaz member Damon Albarn, The Clash's Paul Simonon, The Verve's Simon Tong, and Fela drummer Tony Allen return with their second album in 11 years. Unlike its 2007 predecessor, "Merrie Land" does not feature production by Danger Mouse instead behind the decks was long-time David Bowie producer Tony Visconti. The album is a love letter to England but unlike their self-titled debut, it isn't about the doom and gloom aspect of growing up in the kingdom but honoring the fallen soldiers who fought for the monarchy during World War I. Perfectly timed to be released during the 100th anniversary of the end of the first Great War, the supergroup show their appreciation in song.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Editors Detail 6th Album

Editors will release their sixth album, Violence, in March.

Read Our 2012 Interview with Editors frontman Tom Smith

Take a look at the cover, above, and the tracklisting, below, and watch the video for the new single, "Magazines."

1. Cold

2. Hallelujah (So Low)

3. Violence

4. Darkness At The Door

5. Nothingness

6. Magazine

7. No Sound But the Wind

8. Counting Spooks

9. Belong

Quick News

via GIPHY


Jack White has announced that his new album will be called Boarding House Reach and will be out next year.

The Cure will celebrate their 40th anniversary next year in grand fashion. First they announced a massive 1-day festival in London next summer with Interpol and Editors among others as openers. The band will also release a 40th anniversary documentary next year as well.

In 2018, John Lennon will be commemorated on a U.S. postage stamp. The stamp will feature a picture of the former Beatle with his signature and trademark glasses, featuring the peace symbol.

American Nightmare will release their first album in 15 years in February.  The band has released the tracklisting of the self-titled LP. Take a look:
01 The World Is Blue
02 Flowers Under Siege
03 American Death
04 War
05 Gloom Forever
06 Lower Than Life
07 Colder Than Death
08 Dream
09 Crisis of Faith

Editors at Glastonbury

Watch Editors perform "Munich" during their Friday afternoon slot at Glastonbury.

QUICK SPINS

Tegan and Sara – Love You to Death

The twin sisters return to dance their hearts away. Some of the most infectious and perfect pop music in years has finally been released thanks to Tegan and Sara. Every song on this album could be a single and that is enough to say they made a great record.

FINAL GRADE: A

Masta Ace – The Falling Season

The Brooklyn emcee throws it back in sound and story by taking listeners to a time when he was coming into his own – high school. Masta Ace has crafted a concept record about what his high school years were like and the music that inspired him.

FINAL GRADE: A-

Kaytranada – 99.9%

The Canadian beatmaker unleashes his debut for those that are ready for sunshine. A kaleidoscope of sound and styles from across the world, Kaytranada has created a summer-ready LP that will make anywhere your feet touch a dance floor.

FINAL GRADE: A-

Chance the Rapper – Coloring Book

The Chicago rapper returns with an album unlike any he has released before. Chance the Rapper gets personal, political and passionate and paints with the words he has made a career with in Coloring Book.

FINAL GRADE: A-

Unlocking the Truth – Chaos

The long-awaited debut from young Brooklyn heavy metal trio, Unlocking the Truth has finally arrived. After being discovered on the streets of Times Square to signing a blockbuster contract with a major label to eventually getting out of the big business, the lives of these three young men has been a roller-coaster and they are not even able to vote. Chaos is the debut fans expected and the record you waited for.

FINAL GRADE: B+

Evans The Death – Vanilla

The latest record from the British indie rockers is a noise rock extravaganza. Think early Sonic Youth meets Pixies with a touch of The Cure thrown in. It is dark and humble, plus singer Katherine Whitaker’s voice is divine.

FINAL GRADE: B+

Ladyhawke – Wild Things

The New Zealand songstress returns with a record that will have you moving and shaking for hours. Wild Things is what the title suggests as well as Ladyhawke’s best album since her fantastic 2007 debut.

FINAL GRADE: B+

Garbage – Strange Little Birds

Since surviving the 90s, Garbage have been hit or miss but Strange Little Birds, the band’s sixth is by far their best since their 1995 debut. It takes the darkness and grit from their early work and blends it in with what happens when rock stars grow up. It is not only a fascinating album but a damn good one, too.

FINAL GRADE: B+

The Avett Brothers – True Sadness

The folk fraternity returns with more deep-rooted rock from the plains and country. With their signature heartfelt lyrics and rousing choruses, True Sadness is just a title, not a feeling after listening to this.

FINAL GRADE: B

Cat’s Eyes – Treasure House

The offbeat sophomore release from Cat’s Eyes picks up with their melancholy and moody 2011 debut left off.

FINAL GRADE: B

Minor Victories

The debut album featuring members of Slowdive, Editors and Mogwai is a British shoegaze extravaganza.

FINAL GRADE: B

The Kills – Ash & Ice

The Kills will always rock, even if their albums all feel and sound the same, they will never made a bad record, just the same record over and over.

FINAL GRADE: B-

Peter Bjorn and John – Breakin’ Point

The Swedish indie rockers are back and like always, bring the fun, catchy tunes and sincerity to their game.

FINAL GRADE: B-

Fitz and The Tantrums

The third album from the California party starters is more electronic than previous efforts and backup singer Noelle Scaggs shines more than on previous releases. The band’s latest is a blast but we do miss the horns.

FINAL GRADE: B-

Discharge – End of Days

Taking punk and speed metal and throwing it together, underground OG’s Discharge come with the heavy.

FINAL GRADE: B-

Red Hot Chili Peppers – The Getaway

In The Dark Knight, Aaron Eckert’s Harvey Dent famously said: “You either die a hero or live long enough to see yourself become the villain.” Since Stadium Arcadium, every Chili Peppers record has been a dud and while Danger Mouse comes on The Getaway to help the Rock and Roll Hall of Famers, it doesn’t save them. What he needed to save were themselves. The album feels all over the place and lacks focus, it also doesn’t have any energy. If the Chili Peppers have dried out in the last decade, this record is further proof of that.

FINAL GRADE: C-

The Strokes – Future Past Present

To call this an EP is a slap in the face to fans. There was once a time when CD Singles would contain the single plus 2 other songs and maybe a remix. That is what this “EP” from the fallen New York band feels like. The Strokes were a star that burned so bright and keeps a legacy for that but for the last five years, they have been below mediocre and lazy. This current “EP” feels like that. It is 3 songs and a remix. It is a glorified CD Single that record companies would release in the 90s for more money. The Strokes did this for more streams in 2016. You couldn’t write 3 other fucking songs to add to 3 average ones on here? At least pretend you are trying because we have not faked caring. You are better than this.

FINAL GRADE: F

Minor Victories Detail Debut LP

Minor Victories, the indie supergroup featuring Slowdive's Rachel Goswell, Editors' Justin Lockey, Mogwai's Stuart Braithwaite, and James Lockey of Hand Held Cine Club, will release their self-titled debut album in June.

Take a look at the cover, below, and watch the debut video for "A Hundred Ropes," below:

01 Give Up The Ghost
 02 A Hundred Ropes
03 Breaking My Light
04 Scattered Ashes (Song for Richard) [ft. James Graham]
05 Folk Arp
06 Cogs
07 For You Always [ft. Mark Kozelek]
08 Out To Sea
09 The Thief
10 Higher Hopes

Playlist

January's 27-song playlist is here! See what's on it and have a listen to it on Spotify!

Playlist

November's 26-song playlist of random musical musings is here. Take a listen!

EXCLUSIVE! EDITORS INTV!

This month, Editors released their fifth album, In Dreams. It marked the first time the British band self produced a record and tried to find their footing following the tumultuous period when founding member Chris Urbanowicz left the band in 2012 and they released The Weight of Your Love. Now, the band are back and seem to be in a place that not only has them inspired to push their sound and direction but look to make the future a brighter place. We spoke to members Edward Lay and Elliot Williams about their new record, regrouping and hoping to make a return to America after a five year hiatus touring in the States. Take a look at our interview, below:

The new record is called 'In Dreams,' what does the title signify? 

Elliott- A lot of Toms lyrics on this album have references to dreams. Also we recorded the album in total isolation in a remote part of Scotland's western Highlands. The ever changing hourly spectrum of weather from snow, storms and glorious sun lent its self to a dream like atmosphere where time seemed to disappear. In Dream seemed appropriate. 

This is the first record that you produced on your own, what was that experience like? 

Elliot: When we went up to Scotland originally we went with the intention of writing and demoing. As the songs started to develop we slowly realized we were accidentally making the record! 

Why did you opt to go solo on the production end and not get someone behind the decks? 

Elliot: We felt like bringing a producer in the studio or going to a "proper" studio would kill the atmosphere and vibe we were creating in our make shift set up. The 5 of us working collectively bouncing off each other ideas was working really well. Bringing a producer in could of changed that dynamic. It became a really equal input and creative experience. 

As this band has evolved through the years, there has been a shift in sound and style and the fans have responded to it in ever fashion. What causes the shift?

Elliot: I think that as a band you always want to push forward and progress. Although the albums do shift, there are still direct links between all of them. I think the Weight Of Your Love will always be seen as the most drastic departure due to the nature of the circumstance. The band had been through trauma losing a member in Chris and gaining two. It was very important for Editors with myself and Justin to become a band again in the traditional sense. So that record was very much a rock record with a band in a room vibe. On In Dream the roles were much more open and less instrument based anyone could contribute anything on any instrument. We don't really set out with a plan, concept or set direction on any record. It's cliche but you just go where the music takes you. 

Five albums in, what still inspires you?

Ed: With every album we release, there comes a time to reflect on its sound and what we would like to try and get out of the next record. That is sometimes inspiration enough, as we have never got to the end of a year thinking that we have done enough and don't need to try again. The band now feels the most collaborative it's ever been, so we are obviously inspiring each other also. 

Crafting this album, what is one thing you learned about yourself musically that you didn't know or acknowledge before?

Ed: That I could play keyboard and the other band members wouldn't laugh too much. 

Since the beautiful and underrated "In This Light and On This Evening," guitars seem to be taking a backseat in Editors sound and synths are more prominent. Why is this? Will there ever be a return prominent return to the axe?

Ed: We love guitar, and have used it in important ways on the record. But we didn't want it to be the main focal point on most of the songs,  it had to be necessary and enhance those moments it appears in. We treat every instrument the same though- there is only one real drum kit on the record, and it came in the last song as a bit of punctuation into the big outro of Marching Orders. It's not like they won't feature on future editors records, and that goes the same for the guitar. 

It has been 5 long years since you toured America, when can us fans here expect your return?

Ed; It just didn't work out on the last record for us coming to America. We all enjoy touring in the states and all want to come back- it's just a shame it's been such a long time for us. Nothing is for definite, but if there is an appetite for us from the fans, old and new, to come and play some shows we would love to. 

In 2013, the band said they almost split up, what is the moral like now? What drove you guys to the brink and back?

Ed: We had a torturous time of it back then. We were going over new material but never really agreeing on anything, and to not be productive as a band is the worst feeling. We managed to get two new members in and became a band again, creating a rock album that we could play in a room and got to know each other. This new album is based on that new bond we created, the trust we have in each other's musical opinions and tastes. Spirits are high. 

Where do Editors go from here?

Ed: We have a huge tour which starts on Friday 9th October. The record hasn't been out a week yet and we are going through all the emotions that having new material suddenly available brings. We feel like we have been at our most inclusive and creative on this record, so we just hope that will continue onto the live shows before we start to look at the next load of music. 

QUICK SPINS

 

Darlene Love – Introducing Darlene Love

The undisputed queen of rock and soul returns with a record produced and assisted by Little Steven and they come out swinging. Love, whose voice has a special place in nearly every music lovers soul has never gotten her fair share of the spotlight, now, at 74, she gives the world her finest solo record and is ready for her close-up.

FINAL GRADE: A

Ryan Adams – 1989

Ryan Adams loves The Smiths and Taylor Swift and combined his passions on his new album. Taking Swift’s blockbuster 1989 and reimagining it in the vein of Morrissey and Marr, he showcases how catchy her songs are in any form but also how shit the lyrics are.

Overall, a clever and fun listen.

FINAL GRADE: A-

The Sword – High Country

One of the finest active rock bands around return with their latest album and in typical Sword fashion – it fucking rules!

FINAL GRADE: A-

Blackalicious – Imani Vol. 1

After a decade away, Blackalicious return with their groovy blend of hip-hop and soul and offer the first part of a series with Imani. The duo update the formula that have gained them praise over the years and give a welcomed return.

FINAL GRADE: A-

Chris Cornell – The Higher Truth

On his latest solo outing, Cornell drops any idea of trying to get on pop radio (see Scream) and goes back to basics with him and a acoustic guitar and the combination could not be better.

FINAL GRADE: B+

Thunderbitch

Britney Howard of Alabama Shakes quietly released a rocking solo debut under the moniker Thunderbitch and it is a entertaining as you can imagine.

FINAL GRADE: B+

!!! – As If

The California dance punks return with their fifth album and fans already know what they are in for – fun, fun, fun.

FINAL GRADE: B+

Public Image Ltd. – What The World Needs Now…

Since reforming about four years ago, PiL, finally give fans the album they have been waiting for. John Lydon takes the anger he had with the Sex Pistols and mixes it with the band’s island vibes to hand off the finest album from this band in decades.

FINAL GRADE: B+

Gary Clark Jr. – The Story of Sonny Boy Slim

The Austin guitar virtuoso returns with his sophomore album and instead of really showing off his guitar chops he goes more for the jugular with his story telling. Combining roots rock, R&B, and soul, Clark shows he is just more than an axeman.

FINAL GRADE: B

Metric – Pagans in Vegas

The sixth LP from the Canadian dance rockers is enough to make you want to hit the dance floor. While it is no different than what they have already done, Metric seem to go by the philosophy – if it ain’t broke don’t fix it  and that is what they are doing here on this solid new release.

FINAL GRADE: B

Dead Weather – Dodge and Burn

Five years after their sophomore release, Dead Weather regroup from their busy schedules and give their third record to the world. Dodge and Burn is the same ethos and idea they have had since day one – make sexy balls-to-the-wall rock and roll.

FINAL GRADE: B

Duran Duran – Paper Gods

Fourteen albums into their career, Duran Duran really have nothing to prove but they feel as if they do. The New Wave gods return with their first record in five years and deliver a new blueprint to dance rock.  Featuring Mr. Hudson, Janelle Monae, Nile Rodgers, John Frusciante, and more, Paper Gods is a clever and exciting listen from these vets.

FINAL GRADE: B

Iron Maiden – The Book of Souls

A double album from the metal monsters is something to admire and something that simply just needs to be experienced.

FINAL GRADE: B

Squeeze – From the Cradle to the Grave

The latest from the English icons offers their latest line-up in an interesting collection of songs that seems to just add to their catalog but not create anything profound to it.

FINAL GRADE: B-

Editors – In Dreams

It seems as if Editors best days are behind them but In Dreams is a step in the right direction after their 2013 disaster, The Weight of Your Love. Their latest, In Dreams, is self produced and go more for the synth sound they established with their last brilliant In This Light and On This Evening. In Dreams is the dark, stark, but intricate Editors fans have loved.

FINAL GRADE: B-

Motorhead – Bad Magic

Another record from Lemmy and the boys that will blow your eardrums away.

FINAL GRADE: B-

Hurts – Surrender

For their third album, the dark British duo stick to the same formula that have gained them international attention over the years. Yet, with three albums in five years that all seem to sound the same, it becomes difficult to tell what is what.

FINAL GRADE: C

Disclosure – Caracal

The house and electronica duo return to the dance floor with their sophomore LP and craft a bunch of generic sounding dance songs that feel safe for radio but not the clubs.

FINAL GRADE: C-

The Libertines – Anthems for the Doomed Youth

It has been 11 long years since The Libertines became the last destructive rock and roll band and the last exciting rock band to hit the stage. In their wake, the closest thing that has been subjects of theirs has been Arctic Monkeys who have grown up before our eyes to become fine young rock stars. Now, as Libertines made amends with one another, cleaned up their act and recorded one of the most anticipated albums of the year, it unfortunately is forgettable. Gone are the dangerous guitar licks and songs about painting the town red. Gone is the attitude. Gone is the idea that rock and roll can change the world. Yet, most of all, gone is the bravery. The new record looks like a Libertines LP but certainly doesn’t sound like one.

FINAL GRADE: D

Editors Detail New Album

Editors will release their fifth album, In Dream, in October. 

Singer Tom Smith posted on Facebook some back story on making the album, saying, "Our new record is called In Dream, it's out in October. Our last record was the sound of us learning to walk again, with new legs! In Dream, our first self produced album, is us diving into the computer, a real studio record, made in isolation by the 5 of us. Can't wait for you all to hear it. T X"

Take a look at the cover, above, and the tracklisting, below.

1. No Harm
2. Ocean Of Night
3. Forgiveness
4. Salvation
5. Life Is A Fear
6. The Law
7. Our Love
8. All The Kings
9. At All Cost
10. Marching Orders

Quick News

Nirvana's "Best Of" collection will was originally released in 2002 is coming to vinyl next month. The record will be a double gate-fold LP printed on 180-gram.

The Prodigy seem want to issue their music in a new way now and not do records anymore. Singer Liam Howlett told NME, "We want to get to the point where we release EPs instead of albums. We're not really bothered about releasing albums any more. It just bores the shit out of me. The whole process just takes too long. If we can just get a couple of EPs written then we can get them out more quickly and it's better for everyone… time has changed, you know what I mean?"

A new supergroup of sorts is forming featuring members of Mogwai, Slowdive and Editors. The band called Minor Victories. It features Slowdive's Rachel Goswell, Editors guitarist Justin Lockey, Mogwai's Stuart Braithwaite, as well as Hand Held Cine Club's James Lockey. The band are reportedly working on their debut now.

Speaking to Italy's Radio Cita Futtura, Noel Gallagher has said he is going to go to work on his new album very soon. The former Oasis man put out his sophomore LP, Chasing Yesterday, in March and already has a follow-up he wants to do. He said, "I'll enter the studio for my new album in about five weeks. I'll do some work on it before the end of the year. I’m hoping to get it finished by the end of the year. From what I’ve done at the moment, sonically it sounds different, but it will still be very melodic and all that.

Quick News

Editors have taken to social media to confirm that the recording of their fifth album has ended and it is currently being mixed this month. No word on a release date or title.

Sonic Youth will reissue their 1985 classic, Bad Moon Rising, as a double LP and CD next month. The reissue will feature bonus tracks and the remixed and remastered album.

Motorhead have taken to their website to confirm they are in an L.A. studio working on the follow-up to 2012's Aftershock. No word on how far they are along into the album, but according to one post, guitars have been tracked.

Kanye West announced the title and cover to his upcoming album. While we have no idea when it will be released, the record is called So Help Me God. Take a look at the alleged cover below:

Playlist

Take a look at May's 29-song playlist and hear it on Spotify!

EXCLUSIVE! The Dig INTV!

After releasing two fantastic albums and touring with the likes of Portugal. The Man, The Walkmen, Beady Eye, Glasvegas, Editors, and The Antlers, New York City sci-fi rockers The Dig are set to hit the road this fall with Leagues in support of their latest EP. The Dig have been making a name for themselves in NYC and beyond. They still remain one of our favorite bands to follow and one of out favorite bands to watch and if they hit your town, it is imperative you check them out. Before they hit the road, we spoke with bassist and singer Emile Mossari about their latest EP, touring, and their signature sound.

Your last record, the beautiful, Midnight Flowers, was much more mellow than your debut. Did that record signify a new shift is style and sound or just an experiment?

Thanks! So glad you like it! I think that just happened naturally.  A lot of the songs we were writing at the time that we were the most psyched about happened to be on the mellow side.  

Your new EP, Tired Hearts is a collection of five songs, what made you want to release a special EP and not finish out an album?

We wanted to put something out this year and we thought that these 5 tunes fit together in a cool way so we figured we'd put out an EP.

Will these songs signify what fans can expect on the third record and is that in the works?

Not sure exactly when we will make our third full length and its hard to say what its going to sound like at this point. We hope that the music will continue to evolve and change but still sound like us somehow.

For Tired Hearts you worked with Pavement producer, Bryce Goggin, how was that experience?

It was great.  It's nice to have a 5th set of ears so we're not left to our own devices and biting each others heads off.  We have worked with Bryce on our first two records so its always great to hang and collaborate with him.  He's a great dude and has an amazing ear for making records. 

What did Bryce teach you that you did not know before?

A lot of things, We've worked with Bryce bunch and over the years so we've developed a rapport with him.  He's a bit of an oddball like us which is nice. He's made so many great records so we all trust his opinion and sensibility. I'd say one thing in particular we've learned from him is how to flip a song inside out and take a completely different approach.  Basically not to get too attached to the initial arrangement of a tune and be able to step back a bit and mess with it. 

After being on the road for most of your lives, playing your music, what is the best thing about touring and what is the worst?

Good question.  Best thing I'd say is probably staying connected to people that you normally might not have the means or reason to fly out and visit.  Whether that be fans we've made or friends and family we have all over the country.  Touring keeps you plugged in to that which is great.  Worst thing is probably eating shitty food and sleeping in van,  driving all night between gigs etc.  

When hitting the road, what is the one thing you cannot live without and always have to have?

Car games are an essential tool.  Extremely serious and competitive games we play on 12 hour drives that swallow up a lot of hours. I don't think we could live without those.

You have opened for Portugal. The Man, Beady Eye, Glasvegas, The Walkmen, The Antlers, playing with these bands, what is it like? Do you ever take any of their tricks and apply them to your set?

Definitely.  Those are all amazing bands that we we're lucky enough to play with. You learn a lot about how to interact with the crowds and lift a room.  How to connect with an audience. More than anything its inspiring just watch a great band play every night.  Especially a band like the Walkmen. They're a legendary band among bands so watching them perform is both educational and inspiring.  Ben Kweller is also an amazing performer to watch.  How at ease he is with his audience and his ability to connect with people and be so personable while he's up there.  There's a lot to be learned from that.

We have been tracking this band for a while, and your shows just keep getting better and better. What is it like being on stage and doing what you love?

Thanks!  Playing shows is the best thing in the world. Wish we could do it every night.

Editors FULL Reading Festival Set

 Watch Editors full set from Reading Festival from this weekend.

Playlist

 Take a look at August's 27 track playlist and hear it on Spotify!