BRITTICISMS

I’m afraid to note how many times I’ve talked about The Kills on here for obvious reasons. This does not include the many instances in which I merely posted a photograph of VV or Hotel, with no caption necessary.

With that said, what I most enjoyed about The Kills’ latest album was the fact that they were so unabashedly proud to have created a collection of hits. When recording the album, according to numerous interviews, the band set out on creating an album that was completely of the moment and 2008, meaning their previous combination of garage rock and post-punk was more or less left behind for a drum machine.

That was okay though, as many of the songs were still experimental enough to fit under whatever DIY aesthetic the group had thus far promoted. “Alphabet Pony” and “M.E.X.I.C.O.C.U.” were so short that I felt angry the first time I hear them, upset that the group was practically giving us a teaser of something grand. Don’t get me wrong, they were still fantastic. Perhaps the fact that they are so short yet so good is reason to get upset.

— Other things on The Kills:
The music video for “Tape Song”

“Kiss the Wrong Side,” a B-side from the “Cheap and Cheerful” single, via buyhercandy

“Night Train,” another B-side, this time from “Last Day of Magic,” also via buyhercandy

“Superpowerless,” yet another “Last Day of Magic” b-side

In Which a Clone Can Be Human After All, a mix created for a post on Ishiguro for This Recording and featuring “Back of the Shell” (not from Midnight Boom) by The Kills

During a Rough Trade East in-store

Gus Van Sant + “M.E.X.I.C.O.C.U.” + Francois Sagat

In ‘Sup Magazine

VV on Chicago (hint: she likes it)

The music video for “Last Day of Magic,” my favorite song from Midnight Boom and one of my favorite songs of all-time (I don’t care if it sounds like The Pixies. Leave me alone.)

“U.R.A. Fever” on Jools Holland

Based on their recent choice of Paris Hilton as cover model, it’s difficult to remember that earlier this year they were still featuring the awesomeness known as VV and Hotel on the cover of NYLON

“Black Balloon,” as the new “Maps” for mainstream alts

VV does not wear skirts or dresses (I guess we’ll have to agree to disagree)

NYLON outtakes

Pics @ Bowery Ballroom for NYLON

“Tape Song,” (I provide some interesting commentary)

This is one of many open letters I wrote throughout the year (I know I’m obsessed. I know.)

In Bed with the Kills

…okay, I’m gonna stop right now. There is more stuff. A lot more.