The Rosebuds took an interesting step in a new direction when they released Night Of The Furies. The songs were made for movin' and shakin', not just swayin'. The dark lyrics were no longer hidden behind pop melodies and sing-a-longs. We were taken aback, but decided to hear the songs live before passing final judgement. The Rosebuds came to Indianapolis in late April and we were thrilled that they were the first band to record at The Pop Machine with us. We had finally moved from our high school radio station digs and were working with real professionals and real equipment. As they have been every time I've spent time with them, Kelly, Ivan and drummer Matt were friendly, gracious, genuine and willing to share. A make-up-less Kelly was a little hesitant about the video aspect, but I assured her she needed no touching up to be her impressive self. Ivan, on the mend still from ACL surgery, shared tales of his recovery progress with me since I too have had the surgery. We recorded four songs together, three of which we'll feature in this session, and maybe save the other for the b-sides. It was pretty easy-breezy for our first time in the new studio.
Later that evening the band played Radio Radio with Gentleman Caller and Lynsey Smith opening the show. The live result of these songs was a serious dance party. The songs were urgent and full of emotion, but the campfire was out and the party had become more of an 80s, synth-heavy-new-romantic, underground club vibe. Towards the end of the show, Kelly urged everyone on stage, but the club put a quick halt to it. Not to be thwarted, Kelly jumped into the audience and brought the party to the crowd.
The band released their follow-up to NOTF this month, Life Like, on Merge Records. You can read the review at P4K. Life Like blends and brings all previous experimentation together. It is more than evident this band is maturing, editing and finding a path for the future. It is a high-quality effort and maybe their best to date.
MP3 SESSION DOWNLOADS :
The Rosebuds - Cemetary Lawn
The Rosebuds - Hold Hands & Fight
The Rosebuds - Get Up, Get Out
Recorded & Mixed at The Pop Machine by Eric Klee Johnson & Marc Johnson
Mastered by Jeff DuPont
Shot & Edited by Tim Wilsbach
BONUS MP3s:
