WHEELS 2.0 IS IN A NEW YORK STATE OF MIND

By Jesse Beer-Dietz

Although we weren’t able to make it out to CMJ, we’re spotlighting a band that is creating quite a buzz this week in the Big Apple. Open invitation to CMJ attendees: Don’t hesitate to load us up with music and info on participating acts that you work with, and/or bands whose performances knocked you out, and we’ll be sure to include them in next week’s column. Keep feedin’ the inbox: [email protected].

SPOTLIGHT
The Rassle (www.therassle.com): Coming off two killer shows at CMJ, this Brooklyn-based band made up of former members of The Virgins, Young Lords and The Takeover UK is starting to create some real momentum and buzz throughout the industry. The group, whose shambling sound is in the mode of Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeroes, has some really exciting things happening for them—including a J. Crew campaign that launched recently, along with some good press and college radio support. You can download their free EP from the band’s official site, listed above. Keep an eye on these guys—they shouldn’t be free agents too much longer. Personal opinion: If ever there was a band that belonged on Glassnote, it’s The Rassle. Paging Daniel Glass…

ON DECK
Bear Hands (www.bearhandsband.com): These indie-rockers signed to Cantora Records boast a killer sound that will have you hooked from the getgo. Favorite tracks: “What a Drag,” “Crime Pays.”

HOT EVENT TO CHECK OUT
Bass Player Live returns to L.A. this weekend (10/23-24) for the magazine’s annual exhibition and hands-on clinic at SIR Studios, plus an all-star concert at the Key Club. Bass Player’s Lifetime Achievement Award will be presented to funk legend Bootsy Collins and fusion giant Alphonso Johnson at the Key Club. The event will also feature performances and live demos by Collins, Johnson and fellow bass legends Victor Wooten, Darryl Jones, Mike Inez, Tal Wilkenfeld and Chris Chaney.