I’ve always dug Ben Lee’s stuff
(Grandpaw Would being my favorite). His new album, Hey You, Yes You, is
out this week. I haven’t heard it yet, but I’m pretty anxious to check it out. Jon
gave it the sorta-kinda thumbs-up. I did hear the first single, “Running With Scissors”, and it’s
nice, dancy, poppy and slick. You can stream that track over at the Modular site.
In the past year, I’ve seen two separate TV appearances in which Ben has been wearing
what appears to be a tuxedo jacket with the sleeves cut off. Carson Kressly would blow an
O-Ring. Angela Chase probably made it for him or something.

I know you’ve been thinking about starting your own record label, so here are some articles to help convince you:
the Archer Records success story (via lhb),
and also Zines And Their Labels. If you’re
really serious about it, though, you certainly won’t jump in without your Mechanic’s Guide.

According to 3Gut, Them
Royal City boys should have a new EP out (on Rough Trade) in the fall. They’ve also recorded
a cover of the Str*kes’ “Is This It”, for an upcoming Rough Trade Comp.

And add to the “bands that are DUN” file:

• Elliott
• Atom (And His Package)

Also: Cripes.