Fuzzy Bits: November 10, 2005

Josh Rouse releases new EP
Josh Rouse released this past Tuesday a sequel to his exceptionally rare Bedroom Classics, vol. 1, which has appropriately been named Bedroom Classics, vol. 2. Containing five incredibly spellbinding and atmospheric tracks this is truly a must have album for anyone. Rouse based the tracks largely on his own personal fascination with film scores, something which is very easily apparent from the first listen, as each song absorbs you into a personal world which Rouse has crafted and is continuously molding as the album undergoes a sense of metamorphosis from where it’s started to where it ends. Josh himself really isn't the focus of this album, as some of the tracks are completely instrumental, while others contain sparse lyrics, so instead the focus remains on the entire composition of each piece. It's amazing to think that he has yet to really release a disappointing album, especially considering he has the ability to be effective even on instrumental tracks; Rouse has truly been on a roll since 2002's Under Cold Blue Stars.

★★★★★

Kaiser Chiefs release new single
In the process of preparing for what's looking to be an incredibly successful tour overseas, the Kaiser Chiefs have released a studio version of "Hard Times Send Me," a track that was originally only available in bonus disc editions of their debut album Employment. While not all that much of a departure from their traditional sound, it's still a very fun near three-minute romp that's well worth purchasing off of iTunes (it's currently only offered exclusively through them).

The Black Keys currently on tour
While some of their shows already have been (or are nearly) sold out, it's still worth mentioning that the Black Keys are going to be on tour until December 3. If you're not familiar with the Black Keys, here's a bit of a rundown: The Black Keys are a blues-infused rock duo from Akron, Ohio. Often compared to such acts as the White Stripes for their incredibly raw sound, The Black Keys rely heavily on harsh, bluesy riffs and equally heavy drums, and always give great live shows. Here's how their tour schedule shapes up:

November 10, 2005 Brooklyn, NY - Warsaw

November 11, 2005 Philadelphia, PA - Theater of Living Arts

November 12, 2005 Washington, DC - 9:30 Club

November 13, 2005 Baltimore, MD - Rams Head Live

November 15, 2005 New Haven, CT - Toad's Place

November 16, 2005 Boston, MA - Avalon

November 17, 2005 Montreal, QC - Cabaret La Tulipe

November 18, 2005 Ottawa, ON - Barrymore's

November 19, 2005 Toronto, ON - Opera House

December 1, 2005 Chicago, IL - Metro

December 2, 2005 Chicago, IL - Metro

December 3, 2005 Champaign, IL - Highdive

Wilco's Kicking Television to be released next Tuesday
Wilco's highly anticipated double-cd live set from their show at the Vic in Chicago earlier in May has been set to be released on November 15. This is the first live release for the Chicago based group and includes such favorites as "Jesus, Etc.," "I'm The Man Who Loves You," "Hummingbird," and "Heavy Metal Drummer" while also containing some of their lesser-known tracks.