Electro-pop caped crusaders MGMT are coming to Australia in December, riding the wave of sucess produced by their debut album Oracular Spectacular. The avant-garde duo will bring a five-piece band with them as they play four shows; in Perth, Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne on December 6, 9, 10 and 11 respectively. Tickets are out tomorrow through ticketek.

Stumbling through Melbourne's underground Campbell Arcade, I came across the Sticky Institute; Melbourne's home of the zine. For the unfamiliar, a zine is an independent publication made by an individual or a small group of people with little to no advertising - think of a mini-magazine, crafted by a photo-copier, made for love - not money. Sticky Institute stocks hundreds of them, and a particular zine by Adelaide's Ianto Ware caught my eye. W W T T D ? (What Would Tintin Do?) is Ware's often-witty and always insightful interpretation of how the world's favourite fictional reporter, Tintin, can be considered a role model for his high moral standing, clear decision making ability and other lofty traits.
Sticky Institude is at 10 Campbell Arcade (under Flinders Street), and can be called at 9654 8559.

British India are back with their joyous blend of urgent alt-rock, and they've just unleashed their second album, Thieves. They're currently gallivanting around the nation on a frenetic tour, which includes Byron Bay's Splendour in the Grass. Thieves is out now through Flashpoint/Shock. The raw, poignant "Said I’m Sorry" is the first single from the album; enjoy its video.

 

Bondi progressive-rock trio COG have released their new single, “What If” nationally.It’s punchy, melodic and thought-provoking, thematically recalling Lennon’s 1971 utopian anthem, “Imagine”.
Unlike many songs that appeal for change in the world, “What if” takes a few listens to appreciate; it’s not damning or overly preachy (ala “Dear Mr President”) but rather optimistic and down-to-earth, and before long, the simplicity of vocalist Flynn Gower’s lyrics becomes strikingly effective.Don’t expect to hear it on mainstream radio anytime soon (or anytime at all), but check out their Myspace page for a listen.Cog are currently touring Australia to coincide with the single’s launch.