Era Extraña, Neon Indian's second LP, came out last month and it is pure electro-pop bliss! Following an unexpected 4-track EP collaboration with The Flaming Lips out last spring, Alan Palomo (better know as Neon Indian) finally released a sequel to the amazing 2009 Psychic Chasms. Supporting the new album, Palomo and his musicians are touring North American alongside amazing synth artist Com Truise from New Jersey, and the intriguing up-and-coming band from Edmonton, Purity Ring.

Sam Beam, better know as Iron & Wine, has been establishing himself as an one of the most talented folk artist of his generation. It all started with his first album released in 2002 on Sub Pop, followed by two other LPs, several contributions to soundtracks (a Postal Service cover of Such Great Heights for the Garden State movie, notably), EPs / B-sides compilations and live albums. This past January, Beam moved on to Warner Music and released his forth LP, Kiss Each Other Clean. This last effort was well received critically as it is the next logical step for Iron & Wine songs, tinted by pop and 70s influences with bolder layers of sound.

Yes folks, Pop Montreal is finally here! The island will be packed with so many awesome shows they had to make room for one... in Laval!
Midnight Poutine is sending you over to the "other side" on Saturday for a one-of-a-kind party featuring THE party man himself Andrew W.K., Polaris short-list nominated Galaxie, franco loco hip hop outfit Alaclair Ensemble and many other bands / DJs.

Have you heard of Sappyfest?
The non-profit organization is an independent music festival taking place in Sackville, not too far from Moncton in New Brunswick.
Maritime native Julie Doiron is among the founders of the event, now celebrating its fifth anniversary! That's why Midnight Poutine is happy to give away two passes valid for the festival on July 29-31.

Brooklyn's very own Yeasayer is coming to Club Soda this Wednesday and we have some tickets to give away!
In case you're not familiar with Yeasayer yet, they are buddies with fellow Brooklyn residents MGMT, released their second full-length in early 2010 and everyone has gone crazy over their dreamy, organic synth-pop. I have seen them live a few times and always enjoyed myself (photos of their last show at Le National here)
In support of Yeasayer, Hush Hush and Chicago's Smith Westerns are not to miss. The Westerns came out with Dye It Blonde, their second record earlier this year and will be coming back to Montreal this summer for Osheaga.

Guess who's back?
Hip Hop Karaoke Mtl is making another lyrical celebration happen at Belmont on Saturday, May 14. All we can say is that footage from the first night tends to guarantee a blast!
DJ Cosmo will still be on the beats alongside host DShade from Shades of Culture.