Saturday, July 30, 2011

Cairo Digital Mixtape #06: Bass Treble Level


"Bass Treble Level" is a selection of favorites by Devin Welch of Flexions. Remember that the new Flexions record, Golden Fjord, can be ordered through our Temple of Cairo web store here!

Track List:

01. Joe Meek & the Blue Men – The Bulblight
02. The Aislers Set – Attraction Action Reaction
03. The Beach Boys – Fall Breaks And Back To Winter
04. Brian Eno – Golden Hours
05. Shuggie Otis – Xl-30
06. Assèlèfètch Ashiné & Géténèsh Kebrèt & Army Band – Mètché Nèw
07. Family Fodder – Film Music
08. Telepathe – Islands
09. Muscle Drum – Swimming Headache
10. Harmonia – Gollum
11. Quix*O*Tic – On My Own
12. David Bowie – Art Decade

Cairo Quickie: Men of Cairo

So as I was interviewing (most of) Flexions last week, there was a mini-Cairo invasion!
Observe: Joel, Robert, and Travis with Devin and Robin of Flexions.
How handsome.

Gentlemen of Cairo
Way to be an individual, Devin.

Also, stay tuned for the full Flexions interview, coming soon!

-Liv

Wednesday, July 27, 2011

NEW FLEXIONS VID - pre-order Golden Fjord album

New Flexions Video for Her War!

Flexions - Her War from Cairo Records on Vimeo.



Pre-order Golden Fjord today HERE

Sunday, July 24, 2011

BUDDY GLOVE: New Mixes by Pals DUNES, COLD SHOWERS, and STEPHANIE

Just in time for Summer, three great new mixes by LA natives and Capitol Hill Block Party Participants Dunes and Cold Showers with local faves Stephanie. Catch Dunes & Cold Showers TODAY starting at 4 pm on the Vera Project Stage! Stephanie, will also be playing tonight at the Cairo sponsored show at SPACE in Pioneer Square (114 Alaskan Way S.) with Mountianss, and friends.



To Download the mixes visit the Temple of Cairo and click on Mixtapes.

Saturday, July 23, 2011

Brushed Off by DJ Sharlese.

I had the pleasure of interviewing Sharlese Metcalf last week!
I started seeing the seemingly ubiquitous Sharlese at shows and festivals about 5 years ago ("I love all music festivals! What the Heck Fest, MusicFestNW, and CMJ are my favorites.") so I was stoked. Talk about a lady on the go! We had some difficulty coordinating our schedules but it was definitely worth it.
As a renaissance woman of KEXP, Sharlese works as a radioDJ, local show Audioasis producer, events assistant, and production assistant. You can also find her at the Wildrose every second Saturday night... she and co-DJ Timmy Taco host the bar's ultimate dance night, called Brush Off .
Once together, Sharlese and I discussed the performance oddity John Maus and the rest of the "Ariel Pink's children" music scene in Los Angeles, and our love of list writing ("KEXP asks us to keep Top 10's of the year... It's so hard to keep track!").

Check out Sharlese's 3 flashy looks and her fab interview below!

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(Original Cairo silkscreened leggings)

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need MORE?!?



What has been the greatest opportunity presented to you from KEXP?
Getting my radioshow. That's the best thing ever. That's what I went to school for.

You have met a lot of bands in the past. Which bands stood out the most/why?
I tried to meet Hunx and His Punx today… he did not want to talk to me at all. But to answer your question... all of them! Each is a different experience. I can say that I look forward to them all... I can't name just one.

You met Carson Daly! What is he like?
Haha. I still have no idea.

Any funny stories from KEXP?
I told my boss that I have a conflict every morning between listening to him or KUBE. That was pretty dumb.

Which local band do you think is gonna make it?
Oh my god. I refuse to answer that question.

What do you think is the most original characteristic of the Seattle music scene?
The variety of music. And the sense of community that we all have. We all support each other, which is really rare.

If you could go back to any time period of American music, what would it be?
I would go back to the 80's unfortunately. Probably when Joy Division was hanging out.

What do you do when you're bored in the studio?
Eat snacks, talk to my friends Janis and Cheryl, and surf for new music. New music is a huge distraction.

What are 5 things one should always carry with them?
A mirror, some sort of lip something, some form of ID, candy, and a CD you can pop on anywhere… because sometime's thats called for. I can honestly say I have all that in my bag right now.
What CD do you have?
Shabazz Palaces!

What is one song that you have heard enough of?
Wacka Flock Flame's No Hands. He is my favorite, I love him. But I'm sick of that song.

Which festival do you most look forward to?
I like CMJ because I look forward to going to New York.

What was your first record?
Ha, "Hangin' Tough" from New Kids on the Block.

Do you have a nickname?
Yeah! SeeSee. But some people call me S. I like that one best. It reminds me of Gossip Girl.

Do you have a favorite musician that you picked up from your parents?
Probably Aretha Franklin.

5 bands you recommend listening to?
Oh no! I want to say every band. Unknown Mortal Orchestra, most definitely. Witch Gardens, Karl Blau because he's the best. I need some hip hop, so Don't Talk to the Cops, and Wacka Flocka Flame.

Are you a coffee elitist?
Well, I definitely have coffee ranked in Seattle. First is Vivace. That's the best. Second is Stumptown. I had a good experience at Uptown. They have short, iced espressos, which I think is important.

Do you have a cat?
I do! His name is Gunner Juliard Metcalf. He's really cute and lovable.

What was the most valuable thing you learned at the Green River Community College radio program?
Being yourself.


Dovidjenja Seattle! See you in a few weeks!
Liv

Thursday, July 21, 2011

Announcing VIBRATIONS--Cairo's Free Outdoor Music Festival!



Cairo is pleased to announce the first annual VIBRATIONS MUSIC FESTIVAL on Saturday, August 20th. This is a FREE outdoor summer concert event to be held at the Volunteer Park amphitheater featuring eight of the coast's best artists, with between-set DJs and more. Sponsored by Whole Foods, KEXP, and the Stranger, VIBRATIONS will be the last and best concert of the summer season, with a line-up that includes some of our favorite Cairo performers as well as some awesome talent that's never graced our space before:

-Grass Widow
-Purple & Green
-Flexions
-Metal Chocolates
-Stephanie
-Witch Gardens
-Charles Leo Gebhardt IV
-Seapony

The music is set to start at 2 PM on Saturday, August 20th, and last into the night. Building on the legacy of our highly-successful EXPO series of micro-festivals, Cairo is expanding our horizons, putting together this special one-day event for fans of awesome music and arts across Seattle.

Mark your calendars. The forecast calls for good vibrations.

To RSVP to VIBRATIONS today, click here.

Tuesday, July 19, 2011

next SILKSCREENING WORKSHOP is MONDAY, AUGUST 8th




$45 gets you this great workshop, teaching you the basics of silkscreening shirts and posters + 1 month's worth of 7 day a week access to our studio to create your very own goodies. Email us at alchemy.of.time@gmail.com or stop in to reserve your spot!

Friday, July 15, 2011

Sam Mickens, Extra Life, and U tonight



You might have seen that Sam Mickens (The Dead Science, Xiu Xiu, late of the Stranger) and Extra Life are playing a set tomorrow at the Highline on Broadway, but whereas that show is strictly 21+, tonight's Mickens/Extra Life concert at Cairo is all-ages and a scant $5. If you've ever seen opening band U before, you know they're not to be missed, especially now that they're performing blistering all-new material. We hope to see you tonight and if not, come by our early (7 PM) barbecue show tomorrow, featuring three of the area's best solo artists!

RSVP to tonight's show here.

Thursday, July 14, 2011

Getting Funburned with CLGIV

How many different ways can I say his name?
My interview and photo shoot with CLGIV spanned about 3 ½ hours. In this time, I learned more than a few captivating tidbits about the musician: Leo once licked a puddle in 2nd grade, had (has?) a pet bee, has a custom design of Blackbird shoes named after him, and apparently has an alternate ego named “Svetlana Sexycat”.
Might I also add that when we met, he was very sunburned… quite a commodity in this dreary summer of ours.
Our interview, which was held outside, allowed Charles to conduct several costume changes--his glasses were replaced with shades and his jacket was removed 4 times during it's course: how fashion forward.
Charles Leo Gebhart IV, who is formerly of Unnatural Helpers and currently a solo musician, plans to spend his summer recording with Gold Leaves, ("I am so excited about that. I met this guy and told him how much I love his music, and he asked me to come play and record with him. So awesome.") Grant Olsen of Arthur & Yu's new project. Leo is currently on GGNZLA records (alongside Unnatural Helpers) so stay posted to see updated show dates and music releases.
(4 ways!)



See for yourself how just stylish this flaxen man can be.
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"Svetlana Sexycat"
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Wearing a Daniel J Mitchell original T.
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Featuring Cairo original crystals and Blackbird original CLGIV shoes.
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"This photo represents what I am doing right now. I am getting my photo taken by a giant camera. I am the girl in the picture."


And the interview...
Where did you grow up?
On Mercer Island.
What was your first concert?
I saw Skip Leader, The Red Aunts, Gas Huffer, Fits of Depression at The King Cat Theater in in 7th grade. It was one week before I saw Green Day for the Epitaph Records Punk’o’Rama.
How about one of your most cringeworthy memories?
I punched Michael St. Pierre in the stomach when he was climbing in between two trees on the first day of kindergarten. I still feel guilty about it.
What were you listening to as a kid?
I remember our family’s first CD, it was the Cirque du Soleil soundtrack, after we saw them perform for the 1990 Goodwill Games. My first cassette was “The Simpsons Sing the Blues”. Also “Deep Breakfast” by Ray Lynch when I was 10 years old… I still remember the tune.
Musically, do you have a favorite labelmate?
Yeah, Johnny O’Donnell. His record Hellbodies is still my favorite one. He is such a prolific songwriter. Also, I think Trent is the most amazing composer. He has a natural gift. It’s been a great experience knowing him.
Do you have a favorite Seattle venue?
My two favorite shows that I’ve ever played were at Cairo and the Jewelbox at the Rendez-Vous. They are good venues with an awesome audience, and both had a great spirit around the show. I loved the show at Cairo because there is no specific structure or framework to the space, so there is little distraction for the performer—they can be more involved with the audience.
Tell me a weird tour story, please.
Most notable was probably in 2003—I went on tour with the Catheters and our transmission in the van broke down in outside Indio, CA. Eight years later I was on tour with Missoula Oblongata and our van broke down. Our transmission died. In Indio, CA! We were stuck there for a week while we were waiting for the part. Very strange.
What is your staple article of clothing?
I really like polo shirts. I like a good collar. Most people would probably say my hair. I’m also really into my new polarized prescription sunglasses. (That explains the costume changes!)
What sandwich best describes your personality?
Today I had a salmon sandwich from Le Fournil on Eastlake. It was amazing. So I’m gonna go with that.
Thoughts on Sonic Boom closing and the death of record stores?
Aren’t we the problem? We can get everything for free on the internet these days. I feel as though people purchase merch at a show as a token of remembrance, not because they need the music. They can find it online.
Who in the world would you invite to dinner?
My grandfather CLG Jr. He died before I was born. Everyone I’ve spoken to said he was a phenomenal, considerate person. I would have loved to meet him.
Do you have an idol?
Well, I have an inspiration. Jonathan Richman—both musically and psychologically. I guess there’s no right word for it. He is a very self-aware musician. I remember first hearing his album and thinking, “I want to do music that sounds like this”.
Got any summer plans?
Yeah. I’m learning how to ride a motorcycle this weekend. I never learned and I always wanted to.
What would you do as a member of the opposite sex for a week?
Oh, I guess I’d do push-ups.

Ha, cool.

Hey! You can see this man in the flesh! Charles Leo is playing Seattle Weekly's REVERB Music Fest in October. See you then, friends.
Liv

Tuesday, July 12, 2011

next SILKSCREENING WORKSHOP is TUESDAY, JULY 19th




$45 gets you this great workshop, teaching you the basics of silkscreening shirts and posters + 1 month's worth of 7 day a week access to our studio to create your very own goodies. Email us at alchemy.of.time@gmail.com or stop in to reserve your spot!

Monday, July 11, 2011

Eyes of Ecstasy

Izzie Klingels, a British illustrator and regular contributor to graphic design agency Dumb Eyes, is the teeniest person I have interviewed so far. She was down to try on anything (that would fit her) and spent a pretty penny on some clothes once the photo shoot was finished.
Might I mention that Izzie has, hands down, the coolest name? (“Izzie” is short for “Isvald”).
As an illustrator under the name Les Yeux D’Extase, Izzie’s art has been showcased all over the world, and has worked with everyone from the band Death in Vegas to Topshop to NYLON Magazine.
If you’re looking to pick up some of Izzie’s custom greeting cards or posters and you live close to the hill, stop in to Marigold & Mint or Elliott Bay to get ahold of some wicked merch. However, if that’s too far away, there’s always Etsy!

Anyway, check out some pics from her bangin’ photo shoot below and go to the Cairo Flickr to see the rest!

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What is your sign?
I’m a Libra.
What is your spirit animal?
It’s a Panda. Very slow and lazy. And eats a lot.
Do you have any favorite local bands?
I love Tiny Vipers, Shabazz Palaces, and Magik Markers.
What fictional character do you most relate to?
I love Cassandra from the book Capture the Castle, by Dodie Smith. She’s a very clever character. It’s a very “English” novel about a bohemian family living in a castle. Horrible movie.
What did you want to be when you grew up?
I have always wanted to be an artist. Although I used tell my mum I wanted to be a goddess. I think it worked out well.
Describe your personal style, please.
I think it’s very eclectic; I tend to wear a lot of vintage… its affordable and I love vintage shopping. I perversely like to make uncool clothes work, and I’m not really a fan of wearing designer clothes for the sake of “good taste”.
What are you currently working on?
I’m doing a fashion story for a SECRET magazine, and a skateboard design. I’m also working on calendars and Christmas cards, which is really strange in the summertime.
Current Inspirations?
Stevie Nicks, obviously! I also really love nature and the Northwest…I incorporate a lot of animals in my work.
What achievement in your work are you the most proud of?
I received a gold record for the work I did with Death in Vegas. I toured with the band and worked on their visuals. So now I have a gold record!
Favorite makeout music?
I even can’t remember making out. I’m 40 and married now. Although I do remember loving Sade and totally wanting to look like her.
What do you and your husband like to do together?
Bicker…
What is one thing that Seattle does better than London?
Rain? No. London rains pretty well. Food! For casual dining, Seattle has really great quality restaurants.
Where is the next place you want to live?
I would like to live in San Francisco, but I’m afraid of earthquakes. And high rent.
What would you consider to be the apex of your career?
If I ever finish my graphic novel, I’ll feel like I can sleep for the rest of my life.


See you next week!
Liv

Wednesday, July 6, 2011

Friday Night (De)Lights

Cool down Friday evening with some dope electronic sounds. Cairo's got a four-band bill on deck (a rarity for us!) that's sure to satisfy. Nothing but wall-to-wall instrumental awesomeness.

Dig on the transcendent electronic sounds of Radio People aka prolific soundscaper Sam Goldberg, Midwestern tripper Carl Calm, Gift Tapes' awesome Harpoon Pole Vault, and Same Species (the combined powers of Jermaine Blair, Matthew Ford, and Adam Svenson).




There are two posters for this kraut-flavored weekend happening, the first is by the inimitable Chris Ando (Talbot Tagora) and the other is by Harpoon Pole Vault himself (Gift Tapes/DRAFT Records boss-man Jason E. Anderson, also of Brother Raven).





The show starts at 7:30ish, with admission being the usual $5. All-ages are welcome. Negative vibes are not. RSVP to the concert on facebook here. See you then!