photo by Dan Muller
- Just as KEXP DJs have begun to spin the excellent new Das Llamas EP Class Wars: K-12, the Seattle-based band has announced they are on an “indefinite break,” much to the chagrin of fans.
- A 178-member jury has announced the Polaris Prize shortlist. Ten remain in contention for the award, which is designed to honor the best album from a Canadian band in the last year. The finalists include quite a few KEXP favorites, like Black Mountain, Plants & Animals, Caribou, The Weakerthans, Stars, and Holy Fuck.
- Several bands have announced tour dates: Ratatat will be in Seattle on July 7, Why? on October 3, and The Notwist on October 22. The Smashing Pumpkins have begun planning for their 20th Anniversary Tour, with dates confirmed in New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago, and the rest forthcoming.
- The Vines‘ fourth album, Melodia, is available online for previewing. It is set to be released on July 22.
- On Tuesday, Death Cab for Cutie released its new video for the song “Cath…” The video is available on YouTube, MTV, or right here:.
- The National has designed a t-shirt in support of presidential candidate Barack Obama. The design juxtaposes the candidate’s mug with “Mr. November” (a title off the band’s 2005 release Alligator). The band has promised to donate the proceeds to Obama’s campaign.
