Amanda Palmer and the Grand Theft Orchestra
“Theatre is Evil”
Release Number: 3rd
Hailing From: New York City, New York
Genre: Caberet Rock
Label: 8 ft. Records

What can I say about Amanda Palmer? You know how pop stars today are described as edgy because they got a tattoo, put out a controversial album, or did something unexpected? Well, if that’s true then, Palmer is over the cliff. If other artists kiss girls on stage, she kisses fondles them and then ties them up and gags them (yes, this actually happened). She made a name for herself as one half of the punk cabaret duo, the Dresden Dolls, singing about rape and back-alley abortions. All of these things, combined with her cabaret style is what makes her so unique and exciting.

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Reptar, an alternative band from Athens, Georgia, is indeed named after the Rugrats dinosaur; singer-guitarist Graham Ulicny originally tried to name the band “Invisible Boyfriend,” which was acknowledged as the stupidest band name ever, so they went with Reptar because “It is the second stupidest band name we have ever heard.” Yes, that explanation is straight from their website, www.reptarmusic.com; also on their website you can listen to their music, reminiscent of Vampire Weekend’s sound, and if you Like them on Facebook, you can download Orifice Origami for free. I have chosen to share Sebastian here because that song is free on iTunes this week (as of 5/1/12). Both songs mentioned are from Reptar’s debut album, “Body Faucet,” which came out May 1, 2012. It looks like they’re touring with Grouplove, but their NYC show in June is sold out. Womp.

-Rachel Chlebowski, Website Staff

Magic Wands is an indie/alternative band from Los Angeles made up of duo Chris and Dexy Valentine. I like their 80′s electro-pop sound that can also be seen in the music video for Space. Their album Aloha Moon just came out on April 24, 2012, so check them out!

- Rachel Chlebowski, Website Staff 

Jukebox the Ghost is an American indie band hailing from Philadelphia. This three man group comprised of Ben Thornewill, Tommy Siegel, and Jesse Kristin is an essential band for anyone interested in piano rock. Their songs are typically upbeat and catchy and will surely brighten up your day. This June 12th you can check their latest songs on their new album, Safe Travels. This album will feature tracks such as Somebody, which is already available for purchase, as well as Oh Emily, and Adulthood. For more information and updates, check out their website at http://jukeboxtheghost.com/site/.

- Emily Melendez, Website Staff

An Horse is made up of Australian duo Kate Cooper (vocals/guitar) and Damon Cox (vocals/drums), who became friends and rocked out forming this band while working together at a record store. An Horse is one of those bands with catchy songs and depressing lyrics, like Death Cab; they’ve also been compared to Tegan & Sara and The New Pornagraphers, which makes sense since sound mixer Howard Redekopp has worked with these bands as well as An Horse on their 2009 debut, Rearrange Beds. The song “Airport Death,” from their second album Walls, exemplifies the catchy beats-earnest lyrics thing. Check out the video posted here (and also check out their series of Coffee Time videos on their youtube channel) and visit their website (www.anhorse.com) to hear more of their songs and see when they’re touring.

- Rachel Chlebowski, Website Staff