Best of the week:
Also spin: Explosions in the Sky, Should, Times New Viking
And R.I.P. Poly Styrene.
Friday, April 29, 2011
Should
Add Date: April 26
Artist: Should
Album: Like a Fire Without a Sound
Label: Words on Music
Genre: Shoegaze, pop
Comments: From the promoter: "It has been 13 years since Should's last album proper, the complex shoegaze/postrock haze of 1998's Feed Like Fishes. While much time has passed, the core elements of Should have not wavered: the ultra-sweet male/female vocal melodies, the penchant for the unexpected, and the ability to find beauty in the minimal. The band's immaculately crafted third album, Like a Fire Without a Sound, infuses the pop sensibilities of Eno and Yo La Tengo while maintaining the personal eccentricities and atmospheric flourishes that have always set Should apart from the pack.
"Eschewing the fashionable trend of burying production in cavernous lo-fi reverb and fuzz, Like a Fire Without a Sound is not warmed-over 1990s-era Should. The layers of fuzzed guitar have been peeled back and the pop quotient is dialed up considerably, aiming instead to balance the twin peaks of soundcraft and songcraft." Overall, a wonderful record--very laid back and toned down, slightly shoegazey without being heavy-handed, quiet vocals, and carefully layered guitars; try tracks 1, 2 and 4.
Artist: Should
Album: Like a Fire Without a Sound
Label: Words on Music
Genre: Shoegaze, pop
Comments: From the promoter: "It has been 13 years since Should's last album proper, the complex shoegaze/postrock haze of 1998's Feed Like Fishes. While much time has passed, the core elements of Should have not wavered: the ultra-sweet male/female vocal melodies, the penchant for the unexpected, and the ability to find beauty in the minimal. The band's immaculately crafted third album, Like a Fire Without a Sound, infuses the pop sensibilities of Eno and Yo La Tengo while maintaining the personal eccentricities and atmospheric flourishes that have always set Should apart from the pack.
"Eschewing the fashionable trend of burying production in cavernous lo-fi reverb and fuzz, Like a Fire Without a Sound is not warmed-over 1990s-era Should. The layers of fuzzed guitar have been peeled back and the pop quotient is dialed up considerably, aiming instead to balance the twin peaks of soundcraft and songcraft." Overall, a wonderful record--very laid back and toned down, slightly shoegazey without being heavy-handed, quiet vocals, and carefully layered guitars; try tracks 1, 2 and 4.
Thao & Mirah
Add Date: April 26
Artist: Thao & Mirah
Album: Thao & Mirah
Label: Kill Rock Stars
Genre: Rock, folk pop
Comments: I have to say that the new collaboration between Thao Nguyen (of Thao With the Get Down Stay Down) and Mirah (that's pronounced "MEER-uh", by the way) is, well, exactly what I would expect from these two. And that's just fine with me. Thao & Mirah is a fine collection of pop songs, veering from indie rock to jazzy pop to quiet folk. If you've listened to these two artists before, you'll certainly find lots to enjoy; if you're new to either, this LP will serve as a perfect introduction. RIYL: CocoRosie, tUnE-yArDs, Laura Veirs and Joan As Police Woman.
Start with "Eleven" and "Rubies and Rocks", and also try the folksier "Little Cup" and "Hallelujah".
Artist: Thao & Mirah
Album: Thao & Mirah
Label: Kill Rock Stars
Genre: Rock, folk pop
Comments: I have to say that the new collaboration between Thao Nguyen (of Thao With the Get Down Stay Down) and Mirah (that's pronounced "MEER-uh", by the way) is, well, exactly what I would expect from these two. And that's just fine with me. Thao & Mirah is a fine collection of pop songs, veering from indie rock to jazzy pop to quiet folk. If you've listened to these two artists before, you'll certainly find lots to enjoy; if you're new to either, this LP will serve as a perfect introduction. RIYL: CocoRosie, tUnE-yArDs, Laura Veirs and Joan As Police Woman.
Start with "Eleven" and "Rubies and Rocks", and also try the folksier "Little Cup" and "Hallelujah".
Times New Viking
Add Date: April 26
Artist: Times New Viking
Album: Dancer Equired
Label: Merge
Genre: Rock
Comments: Hailing from Columbus, Ohio, Times New Viking make garagey, lo-fi-leaning post-punk that has drawn them comparisons to underground heavyweights like Pavement, The Clean, The Fall, Television Personalities and, quite naturally, Dayton legends Guided By Voices. (Fittingly, they've opened for both Pavement and GBV during those bands' recent reunion tours.)
TNV exploded onto the scene with their noisy, punk-inspired Matador debut, Rip It Off--the band's third record overall--in 2008, and followed that up with the similarly-styled Born Again Revisited a year later. But on their first release for Merge, Dancer Equired, Times New Viking seem to have turned down the volume a bit, and focused more on songwriting. In doing so, they might have lost a bit of their edge, but I imagine this record will be a bit more accessible than their other recent work.
For fans of No Age, Wavves and the aforementioned, inimitable Guided By Voices. Try tracks 1, 2 and 8.
Artist: Times New Viking
Album: Dancer Equired
Label: Merge
Genre: Rock
Comments: Hailing from Columbus, Ohio, Times New Viking make garagey, lo-fi-leaning post-punk that has drawn them comparisons to underground heavyweights like Pavement, The Clean, The Fall, Television Personalities and, quite naturally, Dayton legends Guided By Voices. (Fittingly, they've opened for both Pavement and GBV during those bands' recent reunion tours.)
TNV exploded onto the scene with their noisy, punk-inspired Matador debut, Rip It Off--the band's third record overall--in 2008, and followed that up with the similarly-styled Born Again Revisited a year later. But on their first release for Merge, Dancer Equired, Times New Viking seem to have turned down the volume a bit, and focused more on songwriting. In doing so, they might have lost a bit of their edge, but I imagine this record will be a bit more accessible than their other recent work.
For fans of No Age, Wavves and the aforementioned, inimitable Guided By Voices. Try tracks 1, 2 and 8.
Hey Champ
Add Date: April 26
Artist: Hey Champ
Album: Anything at All (EP)
Label: Turnout
Genre: Electropop
Comments: Breezy electro-pop from Hey Champ on their latest EP, Anything At All. Relaxed but catchy; start with tracks 1 and 2.
Artist: Hey Champ
Album: Anything at All (EP)
Label: Turnout
Genre: Electropop
Comments: Breezy electro-pop from Hey Champ on their latest EP, Anything At All. Relaxed but catchy; start with tracks 1 and 2.
Buxter Hoot'n
Add Date: April 26
Artist: Buxter Hoot'n
Album: Buxter Hoot'n
Label: Self-released
Genre: Americana, roots rock
Comments: A delightful Americana/roots rock record, the third from the California-based band Buxter Hoot'n. From the promoter: "Their Americana roots, Rolling Stones swagger, pop sensibilities and truthful lyricism are all on display... Buxter Hoot'n's wide array of sounds stretch from haunting violin to banjo, to Allman Brothers-style electric rockers, to psychedelia, and even stripped-down fingerpickers." Authentic and unpretentious, Buxter Hoot'n's fully-layered, full-sounding self-titled is a great warm-weather record; start with tracks 2, 3 and 6.
Artist: Buxter Hoot'n
Album: Buxter Hoot'n
Label: Self-released
Genre: Americana, roots rock
Comments: A delightful Americana/roots rock record, the third from the California-based band Buxter Hoot'n. From the promoter: "Their Americana roots, Rolling Stones swagger, pop sensibilities and truthful lyricism are all on display... Buxter Hoot'n's wide array of sounds stretch from haunting violin to banjo, to Allman Brothers-style electric rockers, to psychedelia, and even stripped-down fingerpickers." Authentic and unpretentious, Buxter Hoot'n's fully-layered, full-sounding self-titled is a great warm-weather record; start with tracks 2, 3 and 6.
Sloan
Add Date: April 26
Artist: Sloan
Album: The Double Cross
Label: Yep Roc
Genre: Rock, power pop
Comments: The Canadian pop powerhouse Sloan returns with The Double Cross, the band's 10th album. The LP doesn't quite live up to their past two releases, 2006's Never Hear the End of It and 2008's Parallel Play--but then again, those are two of the best power pop records that anyone's come out with in recent years, so the bar's been set really high. Still, this is catchy, well-constructed pop that will appeal to fans of Teenage Fanclub, Supergrass and The New Pornographers.
Start with "Beverley Terrace" and "The Answer Was You".
Artist: Sloan
Album: The Double Cross
Label: Yep Roc
Genre: Rock, power pop
Comments: The Canadian pop powerhouse Sloan returns with The Double Cross, the band's 10th album. The LP doesn't quite live up to their past two releases, 2006's Never Hear the End of It and 2008's Parallel Play--but then again, those are two of the best power pop records that anyone's come out with in recent years, so the bar's been set really high. Still, this is catchy, well-constructed pop that will appeal to fans of Teenage Fanclub, Supergrass and The New Pornographers.
Start with "Beverley Terrace" and "The Answer Was You".
An Horse
Add Date: April 26
Artist: An Horse
Album: Walls
Label: Mom + Pop
Genre: Pop-rock
Comments: Bright guitar-and-drums-based pop from the Australian duo An Horse. Their sophomore record, Walls, is up-front and catchy, with Kate Cooper's vocals taking center stage and adding a distinct flair to the tightly energetic sound. Try tracks 1, 3 and 8.
Artist: An Horse
Album: Walls
Label: Mom + Pop
Genre: Pop-rock
Comments: Bright guitar-and-drums-based pop from the Australian duo An Horse. Their sophomore record, Walls, is up-front and catchy, with Kate Cooper's vocals taking center stage and adding a distinct flair to the tightly energetic sound. Try tracks 1, 3 and 8.
We Are All Awesome sampler
Add Date: April 26
Artist: Various Artists
Album: We Are All Awesome sampler
Label: Antenna Farm
Genre: Compilations/soundtracks, pop, rock
Comments: A selection of artists from the Antenna Farm Records family makes up the We Are All Awesome sampler, a collection of featured tracks showcasing each artist's style. Ranging from dreamy melodic pop to dancey-electronica to garage rock to a Fleetwood Mac cover, the sampler is a great introduction to the Antenna Farm roster.
Artist: Various Artists
Album: We Are All Awesome sampler
Label: Antenna Farm
Genre: Compilations/soundtracks, pop, rock
Comments: A selection of artists from the Antenna Farm Records family makes up the We Are All Awesome sampler, a collection of featured tracks showcasing each artist's style. Ranging from dreamy melodic pop to dancey-electronica to garage rock to a Fleetwood Mac cover, the sampler is a great introduction to the Antenna Farm roster.
Young Widows
Add Date: April 26
Artist: Young Widows
Album: In and Out of Youth and Lightness
Label: Temporary Residence Ltd.
Genre: Post-hardcore
Comments: The third album from post-hardcore trio Young Windows, In and Out of Love and Lightness, is a moody, gloomy production. Slower, pounding vocals play off the layered wall-of-sound heavy guitars bass and drums; it's precise, slow-burning post-hardcore, less aggressive and more atmospheric. Start with tracks 1, 2 and 5.
Artist: Young Widows
Album: In and Out of Youth and Lightness
Label: Temporary Residence Ltd.
Genre: Post-hardcore
Comments: The third album from post-hardcore trio Young Windows, In and Out of Love and Lightness, is a moody, gloomy production. Slower, pounding vocals play off the layered wall-of-sound heavy guitars bass and drums; it's precise, slow-burning post-hardcore, less aggressive and more atmospheric. Start with tracks 1, 2 and 5.
Title Tracks
Add Date: April 26
Artist: Title Tracks
Album: In Blank
Label: Ernest Jenning Record Co.
Genre: Rock
Comments: Power pop with garage rock flair on Title Tracks' In Blank. Catchy, rhythmic, with tons of chord progressions and an audible surf-vibe on many of the tracks; if you enjoyed playlist add Jaill's latest, definitely check In Blank out. Start with tracks 1, 2 and 4.
Artist: Title Tracks
Album: In Blank
Label: Ernest Jenning Record Co.
Genre: Rock
Comments: Power pop with garage rock flair on Title Tracks' In Blank. Catchy, rhythmic, with tons of chord progressions and an audible surf-vibe on many of the tracks; if you enjoyed playlist add Jaill's latest, definitely check In Blank out. Start with tracks 1, 2 and 4.
Adam Taylor
Add Date: April 26
Artist: Adam Taylor
Album: No Poet (EP)
Label: Drama Entertainment Group
Genre: Rock
Comments: After his fall 2010 EP Play the Piano Drunk drew him comparisons to Bob Dylan and Tom Waits--from the record's promoter, but still--Pennsylvania's Adam Taylor veers from folk to pop-rock on this 7-song set. I keep thinking of the country-tinged North Carolina band Roman Candle while listening to No Poet, and that's certainly not a bad thing. Check out "Oliver" and "Jazzonia (Silver Tree)".
Artist: Adam Taylor
Album: No Poet (EP)
Label: Drama Entertainment Group
Genre: Rock
Comments: After his fall 2010 EP Play the Piano Drunk drew him comparisons to Bob Dylan and Tom Waits--from the record's promoter, but still--Pennsylvania's Adam Taylor veers from folk to pop-rock on this 7-song set. I keep thinking of the country-tinged North Carolina band Roman Candle while listening to No Poet, and that's certainly not a bad thing. Check out "Oliver" and "Jazzonia (Silver Tree)".
The Belle Brigade
Add Date: April 26
Artist: The Belle Brigade
Album: The Belle Brigade
Label: Reprise
Genre: Rock
Comments: The Belle Brigade, composed of the brother-sister duo of Ethan and Barbara Gruska, fully reminisce over the sounds of 1970s California. With sweet melodies exploring love and loss, ever-present layered harmonies, and strong instrumentation, this album draws direct comparison to Fleetwood Mac, Simon and Garfunkel, and other bands of the like. As proven before, this sound works.
Artist: The Belle Brigade
Album: The Belle Brigade
Label: Reprise
Genre: Rock
Comments: The Belle Brigade, composed of the brother-sister duo of Ethan and Barbara Gruska, fully reminisce over the sounds of 1970s California. With sweet melodies exploring love and loss, ever-present layered harmonies, and strong instrumentation, this album draws direct comparison to Fleetwood Mac, Simon and Garfunkel, and other bands of the like. As proven before, this sound works.
Hungry Kids of Hungary
Add Date: April 26
Artist: Hungry Kids of Hungary
Album: Escapades
Label: Stop Start/EMI
Genre: Rock, pop
Comments: Following two EPs, Hungry Kids of Hungary finally release their first full-length studio album, Escapades. Though many of the tracks are previously released singles and songs from the EPs, this debut is stronger and much better than many. In Escapades, the band takes indie rock/pop and makes you forget that this genre has ever been or ever could be generic and tired again. Dean McGrath layers his dulcet vocals and catchy melodies on top of expertly used guitars, drums, and piano. Add a doo-wop here and there, and Hungry Kids of Hungary cement themselves as producing one of the summer's best albums. The only downfall to be found is the lack of cohesion throughout the album, which stems from a wide range of influences. Tracks range from a Vampire Weekend feel in "Wristwatch" to Simon and Garfunkel in "No Returns". All songs are great, though. I recommend "Coming Around".
Artist: Hungry Kids of Hungary
Album: Escapades
Label: Stop Start/EMI
Genre: Rock, pop
Comments: Following two EPs, Hungry Kids of Hungary finally release their first full-length studio album, Escapades. Though many of the tracks are previously released singles and songs from the EPs, this debut is stronger and much better than many. In Escapades, the band takes indie rock/pop and makes you forget that this genre has ever been or ever could be generic and tired again. Dean McGrath layers his dulcet vocals and catchy melodies on top of expertly used guitars, drums, and piano. Add a doo-wop here and there, and Hungry Kids of Hungary cement themselves as producing one of the summer's best albums. The only downfall to be found is the lack of cohesion throughout the album, which stems from a wide range of influences. Tracks range from a Vampire Weekend feel in "Wristwatch" to Simon and Garfunkel in "No Returns". All songs are great, though. I recommend "Coming Around".
Hidden Pictures
Add Date: April 26
Artist: Hidden Pictures
Album: Synchronized Sleeping
Label: Self Help Songs
Genre: Indie rock
Comments: From the promoter: "Hidden Pictures showcases a retro sound that emphasizes crafty hooks and boy-girl harmonies. Comparisons to bands like Belle and Sebastian and She & Him are inevitable with coed vocals at the forefront, but the band's vinyl vault also pays heed to tunesmiths like Big Star and The Kinks, as well as modern masters like Wilco and the Shins." With "wry lyrics" that "humorously riff on the perils of love and friendship."
Artist: Hidden Pictures
Album: Synchronized Sleeping
Label: Self Help Songs
Genre: Indie rock
Comments: From the promoter: "Hidden Pictures showcases a retro sound that emphasizes crafty hooks and boy-girl harmonies. Comparisons to bands like Belle and Sebastian and She & Him are inevitable with coed vocals at the forefront, but the band's vinyl vault also pays heed to tunesmiths like Big Star and The Kinks, as well as modern masters like Wilco and the Shins." With "wry lyrics" that "humorously riff on the perils of love and friendship."
Jared Mees & the Grown Children
Add Date: April 26
Artist: Jared Mees & the Grown Children
Album: Only Good Thoughts Can Stay
Label: Tender Loving Empire
Genre: Rock
Comments: Though Jared Mees & the Grown Children's genre is officially rock, the group doesn't really do much to clearly define itself. In Only Good Thoughts Can Stay, this Portland-based band fails to develop a unique sound between the elements of rock, folk, alternative and bland, all with brass accompaniment. That's not to say that the band isn't talented. The instrumentation showcases skill and the production quality is very good but, as a whole, I'm not inclined to keep listening to this album just because every time the band hits a stride, it changes its sound. Also, at their best they sound like Edward Sharpe & the Magnetic Zeros, except a little worse. The result is an album of half-memorable songs. Good, but not great or a repeat listen. Start with "Hungry Like a Tiger".
Artist: Jared Mees & the Grown Children
Album: Only Good Thoughts Can Stay
Label: Tender Loving Empire
Genre: Rock
Comments: Though Jared Mees & the Grown Children's genre is officially rock, the group doesn't really do much to clearly define itself. In Only Good Thoughts Can Stay, this Portland-based band fails to develop a unique sound between the elements of rock, folk, alternative and bland, all with brass accompaniment. That's not to say that the band isn't talented. The instrumentation showcases skill and the production quality is very good but, as a whole, I'm not inclined to keep listening to this album just because every time the band hits a stride, it changes its sound. Also, at their best they sound like Edward Sharpe & the Magnetic Zeros, except a little worse. The result is an album of half-memorable songs. Good, but not great or a repeat listen. Start with "Hungry Like a Tiger".
Girls Names
Add Date: April 26
Artist: Girls Names
Album: Dead to Me
Label: Slumberland
Genre: Rock
Comments: On Girls Names' MySpace page, the band describes their style as "disposable noise pop songs." Hailing from Belfast in Northern Ireland, the group combines melancholy (the most melancholy aspect being the album title), deep-toned lyrics and vocals with low production quality and bop pop. In full, Dead to Me stands as a superior testament to its predecessors such as Orange Juice and the Walker Brothers. Start with "I Could Die".
Artist: Girls Names
Album: Dead to Me
Label: Slumberland
Genre: Rock
Comments: On Girls Names' MySpace page, the band describes their style as "disposable noise pop songs." Hailing from Belfast in Northern Ireland, the group combines melancholy (the most melancholy aspect being the album title), deep-toned lyrics and vocals with low production quality and bop pop. In full, Dead to Me stands as a superior testament to its predecessors such as Orange Juice and the Walker Brothers. Start with "I Could Die".
Poly Styrene
Add Date: April 26
Artist: Poly Styrene
Album: Generation Indigo
Label: Future Noise
Genre: Rock, electropop
Comments: Sadly, Poly Styrene--former member of punk group the X-Ray Spex--passed away this past Monday at the age of 53. Her latest and last album, Generation Indigo, is synth-happy electropop with old-school punk attitude; the traditional-to-British-punk reggae influence is still audible, as are Styrene's playful yet culturally aware and occasionally political lyrics. Overall, it's a wonderful record from a female punk legend who will be missed. Start with tracks 2, 3 and 5.
Artist: Poly Styrene
Album: Generation Indigo
Label: Future Noise
Genre: Rock, electropop
Comments: Sadly, Poly Styrene--former member of punk group the X-Ray Spex--passed away this past Monday at the age of 53. Her latest and last album, Generation Indigo, is synth-happy electropop with old-school punk attitude; the traditional-to-British-punk reggae influence is still audible, as are Styrene's playful yet culturally aware and occasionally political lyrics. Overall, it's a wonderful record from a female punk legend who will be missed. Start with tracks 2, 3 and 5.
Explosions In the Sky
Add Date: April 26
Artist: Explosions In the Sky
Album: Take Care, Take Care, Take Care
Label: Temporary Residence Ltd
Genre: Post-rock
Comments: Six tracks of epic and cinematic post-rock on Explosions In the Sky's latest record, Take Care, Take Care, Take Care. With most songs hitting about 8 minutes (one track is three and a half, and the second-shortest is seven), Explosions In the Sky take their time creating epic, inventive post-modern instrumental odysseys. Vocals only feature occasionally, and when they do, they act like just another instrument, adding to the ambience rather than dictating it; instead, guitars and drums set the tone and additions like Japanese singing bowls layer into the sound nicely. Overall, Take Care, Take Care, Take Care is a highly artistic and epic record; start with tracks 3, 5 and 6.
Artist: Explosions In the Sky
Album: Take Care, Take Care, Take Care
Label: Temporary Residence Ltd
Genre: Post-rock
Comments: Six tracks of epic and cinematic post-rock on Explosions In the Sky's latest record, Take Care, Take Care, Take Care. With most songs hitting about 8 minutes (one track is three and a half, and the second-shortest is seven), Explosions In the Sky take their time creating epic, inventive post-modern instrumental odysseys. Vocals only feature occasionally, and when they do, they act like just another instrument, adding to the ambience rather than dictating it; instead, guitars and drums set the tone and additions like Japanese singing bowls layer into the sound nicely. Overall, Take Care, Take Care, Take Care is a highly artistic and epic record; start with tracks 3, 5 and 6.
Daptone Records sampler
Add Date: April 26
Artist: Various Artists
Album: Daptone 45 Singles Spring/Summer 2011
Label: Daptone
Genre: Compilations/soundtracks, soul, funk
Comments: In an attempt to please Daptone fans that are "vinylly challenged," the label has released this sampler for fans cemented in the digital age. Charles Bradley (raw soul), El Rego (funk from Benin), Bob & Gene (members of Buffalo Soul), and Menahan Street Band (instrumental funk/soul/jazz) are all present on this collection of current Daptone artists. Start with 1, 3 and 5.
Artist: Various Artists
Album: Daptone 45 Singles Spring/Summer 2011
Label: Daptone
Genre: Compilations/soundtracks, soul, funk
Comments: In an attempt to please Daptone fans that are "vinylly challenged," the label has released this sampler for fans cemented in the digital age. Charles Bradley (raw soul), El Rego (funk from Benin), Bob & Gene (members of Buffalo Soul), and Menahan Street Band (instrumental funk/soul/jazz) are all present on this collection of current Daptone artists. Start with 1, 3 and 5.
Fidlar
Add Date: April 26
Artist: Fidlar
Album: DIYDUI (EP)
Label: White Iris
Genre: Rock
Comments: From the promoter: "It's not about drinking--though drinking really helps. Sometimes you need to be lubricated to get that jazz that drives bratty, playfully druggy, unseemingly tight-but-sloppy punk anthems that define Fidlar." This is punk rock with an endearing sound. Start with 2 and 3.
Artist: Fidlar
Album: DIYDUI (EP)
Label: White Iris
Genre: Rock
Comments: From the promoter: "It's not about drinking--though drinking really helps. Sometimes you need to be lubricated to get that jazz that drives bratty, playfully druggy, unseemingly tight-but-sloppy punk anthems that define Fidlar." This is punk rock with an endearing sound. Start with 2 and 3.
Fleet Foxes
Add Date: April 26
Artist: Fleet Foxes
Album: Helplessness Blues
Label: Sub Pop
Genre: Pop, baroque, folk rock
Comments: With the release of Helplessness Blues, Fleet Foxes have produced an album that is as close to perfection as I have ever heard. This record boasts a mature sound, with even more texture, depth and mystery than was found in Fleet Foxes' previous work. The album is a departure from the band's old sounds in its heavy focus on instrumentation as well as more "mixing it up" throughout individual tracks. However, the baroque influences, the catchy melodies and the layers of reverb are all still there; one reviewer says, "[Helplessness Blues] expands on the band's sound without deviating entirely... a beautiful album of soaring folk jams."
Robin Pecknold's lyrics hold the weight of a square city block, describing modern life's troubles and a worldview especially relatable to listeners coming into new responsibilites (see the title track for one example of this). All in all, the album's tone encompasses feelings of longing while still remaining optimistic for what's to come. This is a must listen. Start with 6, 1, 11, 3 and 12.
Artist: Fleet Foxes
Album: Helplessness Blues
Label: Sub Pop
Genre: Pop, baroque, folk rock
Comments: With the release of Helplessness Blues, Fleet Foxes have produced an album that is as close to perfection as I have ever heard. This record boasts a mature sound, with even more texture, depth and mystery than was found in Fleet Foxes' previous work. The album is a departure from the band's old sounds in its heavy focus on instrumentation as well as more "mixing it up" throughout individual tracks. However, the baroque influences, the catchy melodies and the layers of reverb are all still there; one reviewer says, "[Helplessness Blues] expands on the band's sound without deviating entirely... a beautiful album of soaring folk jams."
Robin Pecknold's lyrics hold the weight of a square city block, describing modern life's troubles and a worldview especially relatable to listeners coming into new responsibilites (see the title track for one example of this). All in all, the album's tone encompasses feelings of longing while still remaining optimistic for what's to come. This is a must listen. Start with 6, 1, 11, 3 and 12.
Not Waving But Drowning
Add Date: April 26
Artist: Not Waving But Drowning
Album: Processional
Label: Self-released
Genre: Folk, rock, pop
Comments: The New York group Not Waving But Drowning seem determined to cram as many different musical styles as possible into Processional, the band's second LP. Within 39 minutes, we get folk rock, indie pop, blues rock, freak folk, chamber pop and gypsy punk, and, unfortunately, there's not really any transition from one to another. I'd recommend sticking to the two songs that work best--the folk pop number "November 3rd" and the New Pornographers-leaning pop song "Thanks a Lot, Lancelot".
Artist: Not Waving But Drowning
Album: Processional
Label: Self-released
Genre: Folk, rock, pop
Comments: The New York group Not Waving But Drowning seem determined to cram as many different musical styles as possible into Processional, the band's second LP. Within 39 minutes, we get folk rock, indie pop, blues rock, freak folk, chamber pop and gypsy punk, and, unfortunately, there's not really any transition from one to another. I'd recommend sticking to the two songs that work best--the folk pop number "November 3rd" and the New Pornographers-leaning pop song "Thanks a Lot, Lancelot".
KallocaiN
Add Date: April 26
Artist: KallocaiN
Album: Between Two States
Label: Lush Music
Genre: Rock
Comments: The sound of Swedish 6-piece KallocaiN's record Between Two States is described as "contemplative indie rock with a built in Scandinavian sadness," and that's a pretty accurate assessment. There's a mellow, melodic tone to the record, and nicely varied instrumentation--both acoustic and electric guitar, lap steel, Hammond/Rhodes, etc. Still upbeat, but with touches of acoustic singer/songwriter folk; the band cites '60s/'70s rock and singer/songwriter tunes as prominent influences. Start with tracks 1, 2 and 5.
Artist: KallocaiN
Album: Between Two States
Label: Lush Music
Genre: Rock
Comments: The sound of Swedish 6-piece KallocaiN's record Between Two States is described as "contemplative indie rock with a built in Scandinavian sadness," and that's a pretty accurate assessment. There's a mellow, melodic tone to the record, and nicely varied instrumentation--both acoustic and electric guitar, lap steel, Hammond/Rhodes, etc. Still upbeat, but with touches of acoustic singer/songwriter folk; the band cites '60s/'70s rock and singer/songwriter tunes as prominent influences. Start with tracks 1, 2 and 5.
Lights From Space
Add Date: April 26
Artist: Lights From Space
Album: Six Song Set (EP)
Label: Self-released
Genre: Rock
Comments: Upfront rock from Seattle-based group Lights From Space. Their debut EP, Six Song Set, is full of rhythmic, upbeat rock tunes, melodic but not overly saccharine, with a focus on the instrumentation rather than the vocals. Start with tracks 2 and 3.
Artist: Lights From Space
Album: Six Song Set (EP)
Label: Self-released
Genre: Rock
Comments: Upfront rock from Seattle-based group Lights From Space. Their debut EP, Six Song Set, is full of rhythmic, upbeat rock tunes, melodic but not overly saccharine, with a focus on the instrumentation rather than the vocals. Start with tracks 2 and 3.
Small Leaks Sink Ships
Add Date: April 26
Artist: Small Leaks Sink Ships
Album: Oak Street Basement EP
Label: Cross Chatter
Genre: Indie rock
Comments: A slightly Modest-Mouse-y vibe on Small Leaks Sink Ships' Oak Street Basement EP, a collection of five experimental indie rock tunes. Melodic and structured, with some repetition and strong vocals, Oak Street Basement is quirky and enjoyable. Start with tracks 1 and 4.
Artist: Small Leaks Sink Ships
Album: Oak Street Basement EP
Label: Cross Chatter
Genre: Indie rock
Comments: A slightly Modest-Mouse-y vibe on Small Leaks Sink Ships' Oak Street Basement EP, a collection of five experimental indie rock tunes. Melodic and structured, with some repetition and strong vocals, Oak Street Basement is quirky and enjoyable. Start with tracks 1 and 4.
Title Fight
Add Date: April 26
Artist: Title Fight
Album: Shed
Label: SideOneDummy
Genre: Rock
Comments: Melodic hardcore on Title Fight's latest album, Shed, a record that blends pretty serious lyrics with constantly heavy instrumentation. Nicely listenable, with vocals that blend aggressive almost-screaming with melody-conscious singing; overall, Title Fight have found a solid melodic hardcore footing.
Artist: Title Fight
Album: Shed
Label: SideOneDummy
Genre: Rock
Comments: Melodic hardcore on Title Fight's latest album, Shed, a record that blends pretty serious lyrics with constantly heavy instrumentation. Nicely listenable, with vocals that blend aggressive almost-screaming with melody-conscious singing; overall, Title Fight have found a solid melodic hardcore footing.
Cass McCombs
Add Date: April 26
Artist: Cass McCombs
Album: WIT'S END
Label: Domino
Genre: Folk rock
Comments: According to Stereogum, WIT'S END, Cass McCombs' fourth LP and third for Domino (Animal Collective, Dirty Projectors, The Kills) "might be his loveliest, darkest and oddest record to date". These are folk-rock tunes of the highest order, beautifully written and constructed, with McCombs' hazy vocals floating in an ether comprised of guitar, clavinet, percussion and the occasional piano, organ or synthesizer.
WIT'S END isn't for the impatient--the record's eight tracks clock in at over 41 minutes, and one of the highlights is 9-minute album closer "A Knock Upon the Door", featuring Peter Moren (the Peter in Peter Bjorn and John) on miniature acoustic guitar--but it's another stunningly beautiful collection from McCombs. Try tracks 1, 8 and 3.
Artist: Cass McCombs
Album: WIT'S END
Label: Domino
Genre: Folk rock
Comments: According to Stereogum, WIT'S END, Cass McCombs' fourth LP and third for Domino (Animal Collective, Dirty Projectors, The Kills) "might be his loveliest, darkest and oddest record to date". These are folk-rock tunes of the highest order, beautifully written and constructed, with McCombs' hazy vocals floating in an ether comprised of guitar, clavinet, percussion and the occasional piano, organ or synthesizer.
WIT'S END isn't for the impatient--the record's eight tracks clock in at over 41 minutes, and one of the highlights is 9-minute album closer "A Knock Upon the Door", featuring Peter Moren (the Peter in Peter Bjorn and John) on miniature acoustic guitar--but it's another stunningly beautiful collection from McCombs. Try tracks 1, 8 and 3.
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Panda Bear
Add Date: April 19
Artist: Panda Bear
Album: Tomboy
Label: Paw Tracks
Genre: Rock, experimental pop, electronica
Comments: An excellent description of the new record from Animal Collective's Noah Lennox, better known to music fans as Panda Bear, comes to us from the album's promoter: "Recorded at his studio in Lisbon, Tomboy sees Lennox stepping away from the sample-based parameters of his previous record [2007's Person Pitch] and incorporating more guitar and synthesizer. Still prevalent, though, is the interest in texture that made Person Pitch such a dense record; crashing waves and cheering crowds bounce against the gurgling arpeggios and give the tracks an immense sense of space. Soaked in reverb and punctuated with inflections of delay, the album's drums reveal a dub influence, which gives them a visceral punch that lingers after each hit. Lennox's lofty, self-harmonizing vocals smooth out the songs, and Sonic Boom's mixing gives the work a large dynamic range... The record, massive in its span of emotion, genre, and sound, is the welcome return of one of the most prolific and consistent audio pioneers in recent memory."
Unsurprisingly, Panda Bear has given us one of the best records of 2011 to date. Start with tracks 2, 10, 4 and 1.
Artist: Panda Bear
Album: Tomboy
Label: Paw Tracks
Genre: Rock, experimental pop, electronica
Comments: An excellent description of the new record from Animal Collective's Noah Lennox, better known to music fans as Panda Bear, comes to us from the album's promoter: "Recorded at his studio in Lisbon, Tomboy sees Lennox stepping away from the sample-based parameters of his previous record [2007's Person Pitch] and incorporating more guitar and synthesizer. Still prevalent, though, is the interest in texture that made Person Pitch such a dense record; crashing waves and cheering crowds bounce against the gurgling arpeggios and give the tracks an immense sense of space. Soaked in reverb and punctuated with inflections of delay, the album's drums reveal a dub influence, which gives them a visceral punch that lingers after each hit. Lennox's lofty, self-harmonizing vocals smooth out the songs, and Sonic Boom's mixing gives the work a large dynamic range... The record, massive in its span of emotion, genre, and sound, is the welcome return of one of the most prolific and consistent audio pioneers in recent memory."
Unsurprisingly, Panda Bear has given us one of the best records of 2011 to date. Start with tracks 2, 10, 4 and 1.
Gruff Rhys
Add Date: April 19
Artist: Gruff Rhys
Album: Hotel Shampoo
Label: Wichita
Genre: Rock, psych pop
Comments: Gruff Rhys, the frontman from the inimitable Welsh band Super Furry Animals, said of preparing to record his latest solo effort, Hotel Shampoo: "I thought that, as I'm getting on a bit, the time had come to buy a suit and record an album of piano ballads. However, I got bored, the record diversified and evolved--things turned out a bit differently..."
Indeed, it's hard to picture Rhys, one of the creative forces behind one of the most imaginative bands ever to emerge from the British Isles, sitting down and writing simple piano ballads. And while many of the songs on Hotel Shampoo center around Rhys playing the piano, there's a lot more going on than key-tapping and crooning. This is another terrific collection of psychedelic indie pop songs--not as delightfully cluttered as your standard SFA record, but certainly as interesting and engaging as anything that Rhys has ever been a part of.
Check out "Shark Ridden Waters", "Sensations in the Dark" and "Space Dust #2", a duet with El Perro del Mar.
Artist: Gruff Rhys
Album: Hotel Shampoo
Label: Wichita
Genre: Rock, psych pop
Comments: Gruff Rhys, the frontman from the inimitable Welsh band Super Furry Animals, said of preparing to record his latest solo effort, Hotel Shampoo: "I thought that, as I'm getting on a bit, the time had come to buy a suit and record an album of piano ballads. However, I got bored, the record diversified and evolved--things turned out a bit differently..."
Indeed, it's hard to picture Rhys, one of the creative forces behind one of the most imaginative bands ever to emerge from the British Isles, sitting down and writing simple piano ballads. And while many of the songs on Hotel Shampoo center around Rhys playing the piano, there's a lot more going on than key-tapping and crooning. This is another terrific collection of psychedelic indie pop songs--not as delightfully cluttered as your standard SFA record, but certainly as interesting and engaging as anything that Rhys has ever been a part of.
Check out "Shark Ridden Waters", "Sensations in the Dark" and "Space Dust #2", a duet with El Perro del Mar.
tUnE-yArDs
Add Date: April 19
Artist: tUnE-yArDs
Album: w h o k i l l
Label: 4AD
Genre: Defies classification
Comments: The music of tUnE-yArDs, the project of New England native Merrill Garbus, is undoubtedly hard, if not impossible, to classify: there are elements of R&B, folk, lo-fi bedroom pop, and more swirling through w h o k i l l, flying along on bouncing drum loops--which borrow rhythms from African music, or perhaps electronica, or perhaps outer space--and all carried by Garbus' captivating vocals. But the question is, why would you need to pin this down to a particular style? Just sit back and enjoy the ride.
RIYL: Dirty Projectors, Micachu & the Shapes, Thao & the Get Down Stay Down, Yeasayer's All Hour Cymbals. Start with "Bizness", "Gangsta" and the R&B gem "Doorstep".
Artist: tUnE-yArDs
Album: w h o k i l l
Label: 4AD
Genre: Defies classification
Comments: The music of tUnE-yArDs, the project of New England native Merrill Garbus, is undoubtedly hard, if not impossible, to classify: there are elements of R&B, folk, lo-fi bedroom pop, and more swirling through w h o k i l l, flying along on bouncing drum loops--which borrow rhythms from African music, or perhaps electronica, or perhaps outer space--and all carried by Garbus' captivating vocals. But the question is, why would you need to pin this down to a particular style? Just sit back and enjoy the ride.
RIYL: Dirty Projectors, Micachu & the Shapes, Thao & the Get Down Stay Down, Yeasayer's All Hour Cymbals. Start with "Bizness", "Gangsta" and the R&B gem "Doorstep".
Glasvegas
Add Date: April 19
Artist: Glasvegas
Album: EUPHORIC /// HEARTBREAK \\\
Label: Columbia
Genre: Rock, Brit pop
Comments: Pretty standard, shoegazey British rock from the Scottish band Glasvegas on EUPHORIC /// HEARTBREAK \\\, their second LP. Honestly, I keep waiting for something interesting to happen, but these are simply big-sounding tunes that don't really go anywhere. Still, if you like arena rock and Scottish accents, you'll enjoy this music. Start with "The World Is Yours".
Artist: Glasvegas
Album: EUPHORIC /// HEARTBREAK \\\
Label: Columbia
Genre: Rock, Brit pop
Comments: Pretty standard, shoegazey British rock from the Scottish band Glasvegas on EUPHORIC /// HEARTBREAK \\\, their second LP. Honestly, I keep waiting for something interesting to happen, but these are simply big-sounding tunes that don't really go anywhere. Still, if you like arena rock and Scottish accents, you'll enjoy this music. Start with "The World Is Yours".
Other Lives
Add Date: April 19
Artist: Other Lives
Album: Tamer Animals
Label: TBD
Genre: Rock, folk rock
Comments: Well-crafted, folk-laced psych pop songs from the Oklahoma band Other Lives on Tamer Animals, the band's sophomore LP on TBD (Radiohead, White Rabbits, Port O'Brien). This will appeal to fans of Fleet Foxes, Dawes and The Morning Benders; Other Lives will be on tour with both The National and The Decemberists later on this year.
Very enjoyable. Start with the title track and "As I Lay My Head Down".
Artist: Other Lives
Album: Tamer Animals
Label: TBD
Genre: Rock, folk rock
Comments: Well-crafted, folk-laced psych pop songs from the Oklahoma band Other Lives on Tamer Animals, the band's sophomore LP on TBD (Radiohead, White Rabbits, Port O'Brien). This will appeal to fans of Fleet Foxes, Dawes and The Morning Benders; Other Lives will be on tour with both The National and The Decemberists later on this year.
Very enjoyable. Start with the title track and "As I Lay My Head Down".
Young Legionnaire
Add Date: April 19
Artist: Young Legionnaire
Album: Crisis Works
Label: Wichita
Genre: Rock
Comments: From the label: "Young Legionnaire is a London-based trio formed by Gordon Moakes (Bloc Party), Paul Mullen (yourcodenameis:milo) and rounded out by Dean Pearson on drums. Their debut album, Crisis Works... combines the ferocious dynamics of ...Trail of Dead with the intensity of Husker Du; it is an album full of power and intent."
This is indeed powerful rock music that will appeal to fans of those bands, as well as Young Legionnaire's spring tourmates, Les Savy Fav. Check out "These Arms" and "Chapter, Verse".
Artist: Young Legionnaire
Album: Crisis Works
Label: Wichita
Genre: Rock
Comments: From the label: "Young Legionnaire is a London-based trio formed by Gordon Moakes (Bloc Party), Paul Mullen (yourcodenameis:milo) and rounded out by Dean Pearson on drums. Their debut album, Crisis Works... combines the ferocious dynamics of ...Trail of Dead with the intensity of Husker Du; it is an album full of power and intent."
This is indeed powerful rock music that will appeal to fans of those bands, as well as Young Legionnaire's spring tourmates, Les Savy Fav. Check out "These Arms" and "Chapter, Verse".
Grimes & d'Eon
Add Date: April 19
Artist: Grimes/d'Eon
Album: Dark Bloom (split 12")
Label: Arbutus/Hippos In Tanks
Genre: Defies classification
Comments: From the promoter: "Two of the more buzzed-about and rising Montreal artists, d'Eon and Grimes come together to dish out a split 12" of epic proportions on Dark Bloom. While the concept was established collaboratively, both artists approached their parts utterly differently, making shape for a rather diverse project. On the one hand, we have d'Eon running through an intense mix of R&B, trip hop, drum and bass, while Grimes finds herself morphing through a darker, shimmering array of crafty vocals and haunting production... We love #3, 5, 6, 7."
Artist: Grimes/d'Eon
Album: Dark Bloom (split 12")
Label: Arbutus/Hippos In Tanks
Genre: Defies classification
Comments: From the promoter: "Two of the more buzzed-about and rising Montreal artists, d'Eon and Grimes come together to dish out a split 12" of epic proportions on Dark Bloom. While the concept was established collaboratively, both artists approached their parts utterly differently, making shape for a rather diverse project. On the one hand, we have d'Eon running through an intense mix of R&B, trip hop, drum and bass, while Grimes finds herself morphing through a darker, shimmering array of crafty vocals and haunting production... We love #3, 5, 6, 7."
The Donkeys
Add Date: April 19
Artist: The Donkeys
Album: Born With Stripes
Label: Dead Oceans
Genre: Rock, alt-country
Comments: From AllMusic.com: "Taking their cues from such California-based bands as Pavement, the Grateful Dead, and harmony acts like Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, the Donkeys craft country-tinged pop/rock songs inspired by their state's warm weather and relaxed pace."
That pretty much sums it up--if you like laid-back, slacker rock that teeters on the edge of country, you'll find lots to enjoy on Born With Stripes, the band's third LP overall and second for Dead Oceans (John Vanderslice, Akron/Family, The Tallest Man on Earth). Start with "Ceiling Tan" and "I Like the Way You Walk".
Artist: The Donkeys
Album: Born With Stripes
Label: Dead Oceans
Genre: Rock, alt-country
Comments: From AllMusic.com: "Taking their cues from such California-based bands as Pavement, the Grateful Dead, and harmony acts like Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, the Donkeys craft country-tinged pop/rock songs inspired by their state's warm weather and relaxed pace."
That pretty much sums it up--if you like laid-back, slacker rock that teeters on the edge of country, you'll find lots to enjoy on Born With Stripes, the band's third LP overall and second for Dead Oceans (John Vanderslice, Akron/Family, The Tallest Man on Earth). Start with "Ceiling Tan" and "I Like the Way You Walk".
Kraak & Smaak
Add Date: April 19
Artist: Kraak & Smaak
Album: Electric Hustle
Label: Jalapeno
Genre: Electronica
Comments: Mash up house, funk, disco, soul and electropop, and you'll end up with something along the lines of the Dutch trio Kraak & Smaak. The band's third studio album, Electric Hustle, covers all of these styles and more, and gets an added boost from a dazzling array of vocalists: the band's countrymate Janne Schra, legendary New York funk artist Lee Fields, and the sultry vocalist Lex Empress, among others. The common thread in the songs, disparate though they may be, is the great beats of Wim Plug, Oscar de Jong and Mark Kneppers.
Start with tracks 3, 5, 9 and 7.
Artist: Kraak & Smaak
Album: Electric Hustle
Label: Jalapeno
Genre: Electronica
Comments: Mash up house, funk, disco, soul and electropop, and you'll end up with something along the lines of the Dutch trio Kraak & Smaak. The band's third studio album, Electric Hustle, covers all of these styles and more, and gets an added boost from a dazzling array of vocalists: the band's countrymate Janne Schra, legendary New York funk artist Lee Fields, and the sultry vocalist Lex Empress, among others. The common thread in the songs, disparate though they may be, is the great beats of Wim Plug, Oscar de Jong and Mark Kneppers.
Start with tracks 3, 5, 9 and 7.
Blue Sky Black Death
Add Date: April 19
Artist: Blue Sky Black Death
Album: Noir
Label: Fake Four Inc.
Genre: Electronica, ambient
Comments: The duo Blue Sky Black Death, comprised of Young God and Kingston, have a pretty impressive resume, mostly from their success as hip-hop producers: they've worked with the likes of Guru, Del the Funky Homosapien, Jedi Mind Tricks and members of the Wu-Tang Clan, among others. Their most recent release, last fall's Third Party, saw a different kind of collaboration, as Alexander Chen (Boy in Static/The Consulate General) provided vocals and co-wrote many of those electropop-leaning tunes.
Chen makes a cameo on Noir, playing viola on three tracks and singing on "Fire for Light", but this LP focuses on the producers' expert work in many different styles: there's ambient techno and electronica, left-field hip hop, even some trip hop. Regardless of the style, it's all beautifully done. Try 3, 2 and 10.
Artist: Blue Sky Black Death
Album: Noir
Label: Fake Four Inc.
Genre: Electronica, ambient
Comments: The duo Blue Sky Black Death, comprised of Young God and Kingston, have a pretty impressive resume, mostly from their success as hip-hop producers: they've worked with the likes of Guru, Del the Funky Homosapien, Jedi Mind Tricks and members of the Wu-Tang Clan, among others. Their most recent release, last fall's Third Party, saw a different kind of collaboration, as Alexander Chen (Boy in Static/The Consulate General) provided vocals and co-wrote many of those electropop-leaning tunes.
Chen makes a cameo on Noir, playing viola on three tracks and singing on "Fire for Light", but this LP focuses on the producers' expert work in many different styles: there's ambient techno and electronica, left-field hip hop, even some trip hop. Regardless of the style, it's all beautifully done. Try 3, 2 and 10.
Tyne Darling
Add Date: April 19
Artist: Tyne Darling
Album: The Secret November
Label: Self-released
Genre: Alt-country, rock
Comments: The Milwaukee band Tyne Darling makes solid country-rock in the spirit of Son Volt and The Bottle Rockets. Check out "The Highline".
Artist: Tyne Darling
Album: The Secret November
Label: Self-released
Genre: Alt-country, rock
Comments: The Milwaukee band Tyne Darling makes solid country-rock in the spirit of Son Volt and The Bottle Rockets. Check out "The Highline".
Chris Bathgate
Add Date: April 19
Artist: Chris Bathgate
Album: Salt Year
Label: Quite Scientific
Genre: Folk, folk rock
Comments: A spectacular effort from the Michigan troubadour Chris Bathgate, this is folk rock of the highest order, on par with the best work of Damien Jurado, Will Johnson and Jason Molina. Salt Year is Bathgate's fourth studio LP, but it's his first since 2007's breakthrough A Cork Tale Wake; in the intervening time, the promoter tell us, "Bathgate would be faced with a bizarre cocktail of situations and emotions that found him struggling to be satisfied with his work. Scrapping his progress entirely at numerous stages, wrestling with personal demons and questioning the very surroundings that had been such an integral part of what made A Cork Tale Wake such a standout..."
Fortunately for Bathgate and his fans, he has overcome all of these tribulations, and--perhaps drawing inspiration from those dark times--he's delivered one of 2011's best records. The whole album is worth a listen, but highlights include "No Silver", "Eliza (Hue)", "In the City" and "Levee".
Artist: Chris Bathgate
Album: Salt Year
Label: Quite Scientific
Genre: Folk, folk rock
Comments: A spectacular effort from the Michigan troubadour Chris Bathgate, this is folk rock of the highest order, on par with the best work of Damien Jurado, Will Johnson and Jason Molina. Salt Year is Bathgate's fourth studio LP, but it's his first since 2007's breakthrough A Cork Tale Wake; in the intervening time, the promoter tell us, "Bathgate would be faced with a bizarre cocktail of situations and emotions that found him struggling to be satisfied with his work. Scrapping his progress entirely at numerous stages, wrestling with personal demons and questioning the very surroundings that had been such an integral part of what made A Cork Tale Wake such a standout..."
Fortunately for Bathgate and his fans, he has overcome all of these tribulations, and--perhaps drawing inspiration from those dark times--he's delivered one of 2011's best records. The whole album is worth a listen, but highlights include "No Silver", "Eliza (Hue)", "In the City" and "Levee".
Glorie
Add Date: April 19
Artist: Glorie
Album: Glorie
Label: Makeshift Music
Genre: Rock, experimental
Comments: From the onesheet: "Instrumental band Glorie was formed in Memphis in the spring of 2009 by former Satyrs frontman Jason Paxton... The band started as a desire to create more substantive, engaging instrumental music with a strong focus on melody rather than atmosphere. Texturally, the instrumentation is diverse, including layers of strings, synthesizer, guitar, piano and vibraphone, creating an entrancing thick wall of sound with a cinematic quality."
Check out "High Rise" and "Full Circle".
Artist: Glorie
Album: Glorie
Label: Makeshift Music
Genre: Rock, experimental
Comments: From the onesheet: "Instrumental band Glorie was formed in Memphis in the spring of 2009 by former Satyrs frontman Jason Paxton... The band started as a desire to create more substantive, engaging instrumental music with a strong focus on melody rather than atmosphere. Texturally, the instrumentation is diverse, including layers of strings, synthesizer, guitar, piano and vibraphone, creating an entrancing thick wall of sound with a cinematic quality."
Check out "High Rise" and "Full Circle".
Bill Callahan
Add Date: April 19
Artist: Bill Callahan
Album: Apocalypse
Label: Drag City
Genre: Folk rock
Comments: The latest from Bill Callahan, The Artist Formerly Known As (smog), is another outstanding collection of folk rock, with Callahan's familiar baritone surrounded by straightforward, yet gorgeous instrumentation: guitar (both electric and classical), piano and Wurlitzer, percussion, the occasional fiddle and a good deal of flute. Callahan has captivated audiences for over two decades, and Apocalypse, his third studio release under his given name, doesn't disappoint.
If you're unfamiliar with his past work, kindly emerge from the rock you've been hiding under and check out "Drover", "Baby's Breath" and "Universal Applicant". For fans of Bonnie "Prince" Billy and Leonard Cohen.
Artist: Bill Callahan
Album: Apocalypse
Label: Drag City
Genre: Folk rock
Comments: The latest from Bill Callahan, The Artist Formerly Known As (smog), is another outstanding collection of folk rock, with Callahan's familiar baritone surrounded by straightforward, yet gorgeous instrumentation: guitar (both electric and classical), piano and Wurlitzer, percussion, the occasional fiddle and a good deal of flute. Callahan has captivated audiences for over two decades, and Apocalypse, his third studio release under his given name, doesn't disappoint.
If you're unfamiliar with his past work, kindly emerge from the rock you've been hiding under and check out "Drover", "Baby's Breath" and "Universal Applicant". For fans of Bonnie "Prince" Billy and Leonard Cohen.
Eastern Conference Champions
Add Date: April 19
Artist: Eastern Conference Champions
Album: Speak-Ahh
Label: RockHampton
Genre: Rock
Comments: Some four years after issuing their debut LP, Ameritown, on Geffen, Eastern Conference Champions return with Speak-Ahh, which will be released on the band's own RockHampton imprint. After starting off as a punk-influenced band with a heavy alternative sound, ECC show a lot of versatility on the new LP, pulling in the sounds of two recent EPs (last summer's classic rock-leaning Santa Fe and the stripped-down folk of their winter release Akustiks) without abandoning the energy of their early work.
The result is a solid 40-minute set of rock that's steeped in '60s, '70s and '80s traditions, but still sounding very modern. Try "Attica", "Hurricane" and "Atlas".
Artist: Eastern Conference Champions
Album: Speak-Ahh
Label: RockHampton
Genre: Rock
Comments: Some four years after issuing their debut LP, Ameritown, on Geffen, Eastern Conference Champions return with Speak-Ahh, which will be released on the band's own RockHampton imprint. After starting off as a punk-influenced band with a heavy alternative sound, ECC show a lot of versatility on the new LP, pulling in the sounds of two recent EPs (last summer's classic rock-leaning Santa Fe and the stripped-down folk of their winter release Akustiks) without abandoning the energy of their early work.
The result is a solid 40-minute set of rock that's steeped in '60s, '70s and '80s traditions, but still sounding very modern. Try "Attica", "Hurricane" and "Atlas".
Rumba, Mambo, Cha Cha Cha
Add Date: April 19
Artist: Various Artists
Album: Rumba, Mambo, Cha Cha Cha
Label: Putumayo World Music
Genre: Compilations/soundtracks, international
Comments: The latest compilation from Putumayo features bands from all over the world playing Cuban-style dance music, from Havana-based Asere to Belgian group Internationals, from Russia's Tres Muchachos & Companeros to Chicago's Angel Melendez and the 911 Mambo Orchestra. If you like this style of music, you'll find plenty to enjoy on Rumba, Mambo, Cha Cha Cha.
Artist: Various Artists
Album: Rumba, Mambo, Cha Cha Cha
Label: Putumayo World Music
Genre: Compilations/soundtracks, international
Comments: The latest compilation from Putumayo features bands from all over the world playing Cuban-style dance music, from Havana-based Asere to Belgian group Internationals, from Russia's Tres Muchachos & Companeros to Chicago's Angel Melendez and the 911 Mambo Orchestra. If you like this style of music, you'll find plenty to enjoy on Rumba, Mambo, Cha Cha Cha.
Eliza Doolittle
Add Date: April 19
Artist: Eliza Doolittle
Album: Eliza Doolittle
Label: Capitol
Genre: Pop
Comments: From the promoter: "Already certified platinum in the UK, Eliza Doolittle's eponymous debut introduces the 22-year-old singer to American listeners this month. Doolittle digs into vintage influences with Cuban rhythms and even ska-style horns, giving each of the songs their own irresistible pop hooks... RIYL: Lily Allen, Kate Nash, Ellie Goulding..."
Recommended tracks include 4, 2, 11 and 5.
Artist: Eliza Doolittle
Album: Eliza Doolittle
Label: Capitol
Genre: Pop
Comments: From the promoter: "Already certified platinum in the UK, Eliza Doolittle's eponymous debut introduces the 22-year-old singer to American listeners this month. Doolittle digs into vintage influences with Cuban rhythms and even ska-style horns, giving each of the songs their own irresistible pop hooks... RIYL: Lily Allen, Kate Nash, Ellie Goulding..."
Recommended tracks include 4, 2, 11 and 5.
We Are Hex
Add Date: April 19
Artist: We Are Hex
Album: "Twist the Witch's Titty"
Label: Third Man
Genre: Rock
Comments: Haunting post-punk on this 7" release from We Are Hex, who certainly qualify as the darkest band to sign to Jack White's Third Man imprint. (As a wonderful contrast, this single was packaged with Pokey LaFarge's old-time country 7" "Chittlin' Cookin' Time in Cheatham County".) The promoter compares We Are Hex to The Horrors and Death From Above 1979, which sounds about right. Try the A-side--despite the song's title, none of the lyrics are DNP.
Artist: We Are Hex
Album: "Twist the Witch's Titty"
Label: Third Man
Genre: Rock
Comments: Haunting post-punk on this 7" release from We Are Hex, who certainly qualify as the darkest band to sign to Jack White's Third Man imprint. (As a wonderful contrast, this single was packaged with Pokey LaFarge's old-time country 7" "Chittlin' Cookin' Time in Cheatham County".) The promoter compares We Are Hex to The Horrors and Death From Above 1979, which sounds about right. Try the A-side--despite the song's title, none of the lyrics are DNP.
Pokey LaFarge
Add Date: April 19
Artist: Pokey LaFarge & the South City Three
Album: "Chittlin' Cookin' Time in Cheatham County" (single)
Label: Third Man
Genre: Folk, bluegrass
Comments: From the promoter: "St. Louis' own Pokey LaFarge is the next in line to make an impact on music enthusiasts everywhere. His creative mix of early jazz, string ragtime, country blues and western swing rings true and fine, making him one of the most innovative of all the purists performing American roots music today... RIYL: Carl Perkins, Johnny Cash, Kitty Daisy & Lewis..."
Artist: Pokey LaFarge & the South City Three
Album: "Chittlin' Cookin' Time in Cheatham County" (single)
Label: Third Man
Genre: Folk, bluegrass
Comments: From the promoter: "St. Louis' own Pokey LaFarge is the next in line to make an impact on music enthusiasts everywhere. His creative mix of early jazz, string ragtime, country blues and western swing rings true and fine, making him one of the most innovative of all the purists performing American roots music today... RIYL: Carl Perkins, Johnny Cash, Kitty Daisy & Lewis..."
Brother
Add Date: April 19
Artist: Brother
Album: Fly By Nights (EP)
Label: A&M/Octone
Genre: Rock, Brit pop
Comments: Featuring "Darling Buds of May", the single that landed at WLUR a few weeks ago, the UK band Brother has released a 4-song EP called Fly By Nights (just in time for last Saturday's Record Store Day). If you like British rock in the vein of The Cribs or Kaiser Chiefs, you'll enjoy this music. Brother will also be opening up for Morrissey this summer.
Artist: Brother
Album: Fly By Nights (EP)
Label: A&M/Octone
Genre: Rock, Brit pop
Comments: Featuring "Darling Buds of May", the single that landed at WLUR a few weeks ago, the UK band Brother has released a 4-song EP called Fly By Nights (just in time for last Saturday's Record Store Day). If you like British rock in the vein of The Cribs or Kaiser Chiefs, you'll enjoy this music. Brother will also be opening up for Morrissey this summer.
Architecture in Helsinki
Add Date: April 19
Artist: Architecture in Helsinki
Album: Moment Bends
Label: Co-op
Genre: Synth pop
Comments: The Australian indie poppers Architecture in Helsinki return after a brief hiatus with, for lack of a better term, a dance record. Perhaps in response to the poor reception for their 2007 issue Places Like This--I distinctly remember Pitchfork's review referring to that album as "Muppets on crack"--the band has evidently spent the last four years searching for a new musical direction. What they end up with on Moment Bends is '80s-style pop; Prince comes to mind at times, Duran Duran at others.
That's all well and good if you can pull it off, but, well, Architecture in Helsinki really don't. Throughout the LP, it just sounds like they're trying too hard. Remembering 2005's In Case We Die, a seemingly effortless collection of brilliantly quirky indie pop, I'm left wondering where it all went wrong.
That having been said, there are still a couple of nice pop songs at the start of the LP, so try "Escapee" and "Desert Island".
Artist: Architecture in Helsinki
Album: Moment Bends
Label: Co-op
Genre: Synth pop
Comments: The Australian indie poppers Architecture in Helsinki return after a brief hiatus with, for lack of a better term, a dance record. Perhaps in response to the poor reception for their 2007 issue Places Like This--I distinctly remember Pitchfork's review referring to that album as "Muppets on crack"--the band has evidently spent the last four years searching for a new musical direction. What they end up with on Moment Bends is '80s-style pop; Prince comes to mind at times, Duran Duran at others.
That's all well and good if you can pull it off, but, well, Architecture in Helsinki really don't. Throughout the LP, it just sounds like they're trying too hard. Remembering 2005's In Case We Die, a seemingly effortless collection of brilliantly quirky indie pop, I'm left wondering where it all went wrong.
That having been said, there are still a couple of nice pop songs at the start of the LP, so try "Escapee" and "Desert Island".
Wallpaper
Add Date: April 19
Artist: Wallpaper
Album: "#Stupidfacedd" (single)
Label: Self-released
Genre: Electronica, hip hop
Comments: Wallpaper's Eric Frederic has made a name for himself by remixing the likes of Local Natives and Passion Pit, and now comes his own party anthem, "#Stupidfacedd". This song mixes ridiculous lyrics (try "Money is the best way to have sex/Sex is the best way to feel nothin'/Nothin' happens when you're asleep/So stay up 'til you wake up") with a ridiculously good beat. For fans of Asher Roth or Das Racist. Play track 1 (the radio edit).
Artist: Wallpaper
Album: "#Stupidfacedd" (single)
Label: Self-released
Genre: Electronica, hip hop
Comments: Wallpaper's Eric Frederic has made a name for himself by remixing the likes of Local Natives and Passion Pit, and now comes his own party anthem, "#Stupidfacedd". This song mixes ridiculous lyrics (try "Money is the best way to have sex/Sex is the best way to feel nothin'/Nothin' happens when you're asleep/So stay up 'til you wake up") with a ridiculously good beat. For fans of Asher Roth or Das Racist. Play track 1 (the radio edit).
Foxtails Brigade
Add Date: April 19
Artist: Foxtails Brigade
Album: The Bread and the Bait
Label: Antenna Farm
Genre: Folk pop
Comments: The easy comparison for Foxtails Brigade, the project of native Californian Laura Weinbach, is Joanna Newsom; while there's no harp to be found on The Bread and the Bait, Weinbach's finger-picked guitar interweaves with cello and violin to create melodies that wouldn't seem out of place on a Newsom record. Weinbach is a fine songwriter, too, and her gorgeous vocals frequently steal the show from the beautiful music in the background. She grew up listening to classic jazz vocalists like Billie Holiday and Edith Piaf, and her music has also been compared to Nico, Kate Bush and Owen Pallett.
Try "Pan-Asian Delight", "Creeping Ophelia" and "The Clown".
Artist: Foxtails Brigade
Album: The Bread and the Bait
Label: Antenna Farm
Genre: Folk pop
Comments: The easy comparison for Foxtails Brigade, the project of native Californian Laura Weinbach, is Joanna Newsom; while there's no harp to be found on The Bread and the Bait, Weinbach's finger-picked guitar interweaves with cello and violin to create melodies that wouldn't seem out of place on a Newsom record. Weinbach is a fine songwriter, too, and her gorgeous vocals frequently steal the show from the beautiful music in the background. She grew up listening to classic jazz vocalists like Billie Holiday and Edith Piaf, and her music has also been compared to Nico, Kate Bush and Owen Pallett.
Try "Pan-Asian Delight", "Creeping Ophelia" and "The Clown".
Low Beam
Add Date: April 19
Artist: Low Beam
Album: Charge of the Light Brigade
Label: Cosmodemonic Telegraph
Genre: Indie rock
Comments: The '60s are the "in" thing in indie rock these days, but don't bother telling that to Connecticut's Low Beam--this band unfailingly, and indeed refreshingly, adheres to the '90s on debut LP Charge of the Light Brigade. The vocal interplay of singers/songwriters/real-life married couple Jaimee Weatherbee and C.J. Stankewich makes these well-crafted tunes tick. Try "Airstream" and "Tuffy Rhodes".
Artist: Low Beam
Album: Charge of the Light Brigade
Label: Cosmodemonic Telegraph
Genre: Indie rock
Comments: The '60s are the "in" thing in indie rock these days, but don't bother telling that to Connecticut's Low Beam--this band unfailingly, and indeed refreshingly, adheres to the '90s on debut LP Charge of the Light Brigade. The vocal interplay of singers/songwriters/real-life married couple Jaimee Weatherbee and C.J. Stankewich makes these well-crafted tunes tick. Try "Airstream" and "Tuffy Rhodes".
Daedelus
Add Date: April 19
Artist: Daedelus
Album: Bespoke
Label: Ninja Tune
Genre: Electronica, experimental
Comments: The latest release from the producer Daedelus sees him taking a darker turn, perhaps more avant-garde and experimental than on recent, electropop-oriented releases like 2008's Love To Make Music To. There's still plenty of pop to be found on Bespoke, especially on tracks like "Penny Loafers" (featuring Inara George) and "Tailor-Made" (with Milosh), but also some haunting, wonderfully weird electronica ("French Cuffs", done with the help of Baths' Will Wiesenfeld) and percussion-driven psych pop ("Overwhelmed", featuring Bilal) that brings to mind The Milk of Human Kindness-era Caribou.
However you classify this, it's terrific stuff. Start with tracks 1, 10, 7 and 5.
Artist: Daedelus
Album: Bespoke
Label: Ninja Tune
Genre: Electronica, experimental
Comments: The latest release from the producer Daedelus sees him taking a darker turn, perhaps more avant-garde and experimental than on recent, electropop-oriented releases like 2008's Love To Make Music To. There's still plenty of pop to be found on Bespoke, especially on tracks like "Penny Loafers" (featuring Inara George) and "Tailor-Made" (with Milosh), but also some haunting, wonderfully weird electronica ("French Cuffs", done with the help of Baths' Will Wiesenfeld) and percussion-driven psych pop ("Overwhelmed", featuring Bilal) that brings to mind The Milk of Human Kindness-era Caribou.
However you classify this, it's terrific stuff. Start with tracks 1, 10, 7 and 5.
Mages
Add Date: April 19
Artist: Mages
Album: Magestic (EP)
Label: Self-released
Genre: Folk, folk rock
Comments: The Minnesota 5-piece Mages blends folk and classic pop-rock on the 5-track Magestic EP. Though I wouldn't say their tunes sound the same, Mages seem to take the same approach to their music as do The Avett Brothers--i.e., playing rock songs with traditional folk instrumentation. Try "Cold, Cold, Cold" and "Moonshine".
Artist: Mages
Album: Magestic (EP)
Label: Self-released
Genre: Folk, folk rock
Comments: The Minnesota 5-piece Mages blends folk and classic pop-rock on the 5-track Magestic EP. Though I wouldn't say their tunes sound the same, Mages seem to take the same approach to their music as do The Avett Brothers--i.e., playing rock songs with traditional folk instrumentation. Try "Cold, Cold, Cold" and "Moonshine".
Wild Palms
Add Date: April 19
Artist: Wild Palms
Album: Until Spring
Label: One Little Indian
Genre: Rock
Comments: Britain's Wild Palms make cosmopolitan pop-rock that could easily be mistaken for something from France or even Sweden, except that there's enough of a UK flare--from psych pop to New Wave to post-punk--on Until Spring to keep this in the realm of Brit pop. For fans of Wild Beasts and Tahiti 80. Check out "Delight in Temptation" and "To the Lighthouse".
Artist: Wild Palms
Album: Until Spring
Label: One Little Indian
Genre: Rock
Comments: Britain's Wild Palms make cosmopolitan pop-rock that could easily be mistaken for something from France or even Sweden, except that there's enough of a UK flare--from psych pop to New Wave to post-punk--on Until Spring to keep this in the realm of Brit pop. For fans of Wild Beasts and Tahiti 80. Check out "Delight in Temptation" and "To the Lighthouse".
Thursday, April 14, 2011
Best New Music - April 12
That's a wrap:
And don't miss: Bass Drum of Death, EMA, Hammer No More the Fingers, Orchestre Poly-Rythmo
I Was Totally Destroying It
Add Date: April 12
Artist: I Was Totally Destroying It
Album: Preludes
Label: Greyday
Genre: Rock
Comments: From the promoter: "The songs focus mostly on themes of alienation, introspection, and anxiety; environs that I Was Totally Destroying It thrive in. Six years worth of music that just didn't fit anywhere else, painstakingly (and expertly) written and refocused into a fully realized album that defies concept, a natural flow born of chaos and entropy, the start and end of the writing process. And a prelude to something big, just on the horizon..."
Standard rock with a hint of the '90s.
Artist: I Was Totally Destroying It
Album: Preludes
Label: Greyday
Genre: Rock
Comments: From the promoter: "The songs focus mostly on themes of alienation, introspection, and anxiety; environs that I Was Totally Destroying It thrive in. Six years worth of music that just didn't fit anywhere else, painstakingly (and expertly) written and refocused into a fully realized album that defies concept, a natural flow born of chaos and entropy, the start and end of the writing process. And a prelude to something big, just on the horizon..."
Standard rock with a hint of the '90s.
The Goldberg Sisters
Add Date: April 12
Artist: The Goldberg Sisters
Album: The Goldberg Sisters
Label: PIAS
Genre: Alternative, rock
Comments: Remember, in the glory days of Friends, when Joey decides to live on his own and Chandler gets the psycho roommate? OK, that's Adam Goldberg, who, to his credit, has also appeared in Saving Private Ryan and Entourage. His musical debut came under the name LANDy with Eros And Omissions and now, after a name change, he's at it again. On The Goldberg Sisters, he creates decadent psychedelic rock with plenty of atmosphere and cohesion through the album. The record, though, lacks the sincerity and abstract ability to connect with the audience, especially one that's not used to the sounds of the '70s.
Artist: The Goldberg Sisters
Album: The Goldberg Sisters
Label: PIAS
Genre: Alternative, rock
Comments: Remember, in the glory days of Friends, when Joey decides to live on his own and Chandler gets the psycho roommate? OK, that's Adam Goldberg, who, to his credit, has also appeared in Saving Private Ryan and Entourage. His musical debut came under the name LANDy with Eros And Omissions and now, after a name change, he's at it again. On The Goldberg Sisters, he creates decadent psychedelic rock with plenty of atmosphere and cohesion through the album. The record, though, lacks the sincerity and abstract ability to connect with the audience, especially one that's not used to the sounds of the '70s.
Figurines
Add Date: April 12
Artist: Figurines
Album: Figurines
Label: Morningside
Genre: Indie rock
Comments: In 2006, Figurines released Skeletons to incredible acclaim from critics. Hailed as Denmark's answer to Modest Mouse, Figurines found strength in quirky indie rock. Then came When The Dear Wore Blue--a disappointing follow-up for the band. On their self-titled album, the band returns to what works, but with a noticeable lack of originality and fun. The hooks are upbeat and the melodies singable, but the album is completely forgettable. I recommend "New Colors".
Artist: Figurines
Album: Figurines
Label: Morningside
Genre: Indie rock
Comments: In 2006, Figurines released Skeletons to incredible acclaim from critics. Hailed as Denmark's answer to Modest Mouse, Figurines found strength in quirky indie rock. Then came When The Dear Wore Blue--a disappointing follow-up for the band. On their self-titled album, the band returns to what works, but with a noticeable lack of originality and fun. The hooks are upbeat and the melodies singable, but the album is completely forgettable. I recommend "New Colors".
The One AM Radio
Add Date: April 12
Artist: The One AM Radio
Album: Heaven Is Attached By A Slender Thread
Label: Dangerbird
Genre: Dream pop, alternative
Comments: From the L.A.-based musician and composer Hrishikesh Hirway comes the fourth album in his project The One AM Radio. In Heaven Is Attached By A Slender Thread, Hirway places his dream/synth pop under the influence of electronica to create an album gorgeous not just in the individual tracks, but also in the landscape of the album. Add the introspective and slightly unhinged lyrics and Heaven Is Attached By A Slender Thread becomes a relatable and memorable journey into the world of truly good pop.
Artist: The One AM Radio
Album: Heaven Is Attached By A Slender Thread
Label: Dangerbird
Genre: Dream pop, alternative
Comments: From the L.A.-based musician and composer Hrishikesh Hirway comes the fourth album in his project The One AM Radio. In Heaven Is Attached By A Slender Thread, Hirway places his dream/synth pop under the influence of electronica to create an album gorgeous not just in the individual tracks, but also in the landscape of the album. Add the introspective and slightly unhinged lyrics and Heaven Is Attached By A Slender Thread becomes a relatable and memorable journey into the world of truly good pop.
Errors
Add Date: April 12
Artist: Errors
Album: Come Down With Me
Label: Rock Action
Genre: Rock, electronica, experimental
Comments: It can't be easy to make thoughtful, well-constructed instrumental music that's still interesting and engaging. I've often marveled about Mogwai's mastery of this craft--sometimes on this very blog--and so I must say that it's entirely appropriate that Come Down With Me, the second LP from another Glasgow band, Errors, is the first full-length American release on Mogwai's Rock Action Records imprint.
This is a collection of gorgeous soundscapes, certainly influenced by their label owners, but veering into more of an electronic realm. The promoter likens Errors to Battles and 65daysofstatic, and of course to Mogwai themselves--though the comparisons to LCD Soundsystem and Hot Chip seem a little far-fetched. Still, Come Down With Me is an excellent record. Start with "A Rumour in Africa" and "Bridge Or Cloud?".
Artist: Errors
Album: Come Down With Me
Label: Rock Action
Genre: Rock, electronica, experimental
Comments: It can't be easy to make thoughtful, well-constructed instrumental music that's still interesting and engaging. I've often marveled about Mogwai's mastery of this craft--sometimes on this very blog--and so I must say that it's entirely appropriate that Come Down With Me, the second LP from another Glasgow band, Errors, is the first full-length American release on Mogwai's Rock Action Records imprint.
This is a collection of gorgeous soundscapes, certainly influenced by their label owners, but veering into more of an electronic realm. The promoter likens Errors to Battles and 65daysofstatic, and of course to Mogwai themselves--though the comparisons to LCD Soundsystem and Hot Chip seem a little far-fetched. Still, Come Down With Me is an excellent record. Start with "A Rumour in Africa" and "Bridge Or Cloud?".
LAKE
Add Date: April 12
Artist: LAKE
Album: Giving & Receiving
Label: K
Genre: Indie pop
Comments: The Washington state band LAKE, a hometown product for Calvin Johnson's Olympia-based K Records, make soothing, dreamy, atmospheric indie pop, pushed along by piano, brass and saxophone. RIYL Au Revoir Simone, No Kids or labelmate Karl Blau (who co-engineered and mixed Giving & Receiving). Start with "Roger Miller", "One Small Step" and "Mother Nature's Promise".
Artist: LAKE
Album: Giving & Receiving
Label: K
Genre: Indie pop
Comments: The Washington state band LAKE, a hometown product for Calvin Johnson's Olympia-based K Records, make soothing, dreamy, atmospheric indie pop, pushed along by piano, brass and saxophone. RIYL Au Revoir Simone, No Kids or labelmate Karl Blau (who co-engineered and mixed Giving & Receiving). Start with "Roger Miller", "One Small Step" and "Mother Nature's Promise".
Hammer No More the Fingers
Add Date: April 12
Artist: Hammer No More the Fingers
Album: Black Shark
Label: Churchkey
Genre: Rock
Comments: As a North Carolina native, I'm probably a bit biased in my affinity for music from my home state. Nevertheless, many an objective listener would agree that the Old North State seems to churn out more than its fair share of great rock and folk. (Think Superchunk, Ryan Adams, The Rosebuds, The Love Language and Bowerbirds, just to name a few.) Right in the middle of the current N.C. scene is the Durham trio Hammer No More the Fingers, whose second LP, Black Shark, has just been released by local imprint Churchkey Records. This is great angular rock that will appeal to fans of Superchunk, Built to Spill, Cursive and Ted Leo. Spin "Atlas of an Eye", "Steam" and "Shark".
Artist: Hammer No More the Fingers
Album: Black Shark
Label: Churchkey
Genre: Rock
Comments: As a North Carolina native, I'm probably a bit biased in my affinity for music from my home state. Nevertheless, many an objective listener would agree that the Old North State seems to churn out more than its fair share of great rock and folk. (Think Superchunk, Ryan Adams, The Rosebuds, The Love Language and Bowerbirds, just to name a few.) Right in the middle of the current N.C. scene is the Durham trio Hammer No More the Fingers, whose second LP, Black Shark, has just been released by local imprint Churchkey Records. This is great angular rock that will appeal to fans of Superchunk, Built to Spill, Cursive and Ted Leo. Spin "Atlas of an Eye", "Steam" and "Shark".
Peter Bjorn and John
Add Date: April 12
Artist: Peter Bjorn and John
Album: Gimme Some
Label: Almost Gold/StarTime International
Genre: Rock, pop
Comments: Some five years after the smashing success of "Young Folks", Peter Bjorn and John have finally released a sequel to the brilliant album that featured their greatest hit, Writer's Block. Now, technically, Gimme Some isn't a follow-up; they've released two albums in the meantime, and it's not like this Swedish trio has fallen off the map. But whereas Seaside Rock was a collection of instrumentals, and Living Thing saw the band trying to broaden its scope--with mixed results--the new LP is unabashed pop-rock.
So, fortunately, Peter Bjorn and John have figured out what they do best: gushing guitar-pop songs with inescapable hooks. Unfortunately, everything that these guys do for the rest of their tenure will be held up against Writer's Block, truly one of the best pop albums of the 21st century's first decade. Gimme Some isn't quite on that level, but in its own right it's a collection of fine tunes. Start with "Lies", "Second Chance" and "Eyes".
Artist: Peter Bjorn and John
Album: Gimme Some
Label: Almost Gold/StarTime International
Genre: Rock, pop
Comments: Some five years after the smashing success of "Young Folks", Peter Bjorn and John have finally released a sequel to the brilliant album that featured their greatest hit, Writer's Block. Now, technically, Gimme Some isn't a follow-up; they've released two albums in the meantime, and it's not like this Swedish trio has fallen off the map. But whereas Seaside Rock was a collection of instrumentals, and Living Thing saw the band trying to broaden its scope--with mixed results--the new LP is unabashed pop-rock.
So, fortunately, Peter Bjorn and John have figured out what they do best: gushing guitar-pop songs with inescapable hooks. Unfortunately, everything that these guys do for the rest of their tenure will be held up against Writer's Block, truly one of the best pop albums of the 21st century's first decade. Gimme Some isn't quite on that level, but in its own right it's a collection of fine tunes. Start with "Lies", "Second Chance" and "Eyes".
Meat Puppets
Add Date: April 12
Artist: Meat Puppets
Album: Lollipop
Label: Megaforce
Genre: Rock, folk rock
Comments: How many bands could rightfully claim inspiration from both Black Flag and George Jones, both Big Star and The Stooges? Those are four of the many bands listed in the "Influenced By" section of Meat Puppets' entry on AllMusic.com, and strange as it may seem, it's hard to argue with. Known for their post-hardcore heroics throughout the '80s and early '90s, late-era Meat Puppets veer more toward country-rock and alternative, and Lollipop picks up right where 2009's Sewn Together left off.
The new style is more Alex Chilton and less Iggy Pop, of course, but what has never changed is the Kirkwood brothers' great musicianship--that's blatantly apparent, regardless of the style. Start with "Shave It" and "Damn Thing".
Artist: Meat Puppets
Album: Lollipop
Label: Megaforce
Genre: Rock, folk rock
Comments: How many bands could rightfully claim inspiration from both Black Flag and George Jones, both Big Star and The Stooges? Those are four of the many bands listed in the "Influenced By" section of Meat Puppets' entry on AllMusic.com, and strange as it may seem, it's hard to argue with. Known for their post-hardcore heroics throughout the '80s and early '90s, late-era Meat Puppets veer more toward country-rock and alternative, and Lollipop picks up right where 2009's Sewn Together left off.
The new style is more Alex Chilton and less Iggy Pop, of course, but what has never changed is the Kirkwood brothers' great musicianship--that's blatantly apparent, regardless of the style. Start with "Shave It" and "Damn Thing".
Love Inks
Add Date: April 12
Artist: Love Inks
Album: E.S.P.
Label: City Slang
Genre: Pop
Comments: The Austin trio Love Inks makes what the promoter refers to as "minimalist dream-pop"; indeed, City Slang--the band's concise, 10-track, 27-minute debut--follows a pretty simple formula of guitar, bass, drum machine and the occasional Moog synthesizer. And it also doesn't hurt to have the enchanting vocals of Sherry LeBlanc pulling everything along. Catchy and captivating. Try "Blackeye" and "Can't Be Wrong".
Artist: Love Inks
Album: E.S.P.
Label: City Slang
Genre: Pop
Comments: The Austin trio Love Inks makes what the promoter refers to as "minimalist dream-pop"; indeed, City Slang--the band's concise, 10-track, 27-minute debut--follows a pretty simple formula of guitar, bass, drum machine and the occasional Moog synthesizer. And it also doesn't hurt to have the enchanting vocals of Sherry LeBlanc pulling everything along. Catchy and captivating. Try "Blackeye" and "Can't Be Wrong".
EMA
Add Date: April 12
Artist: EMA
Album: Past Life Martyred Saints
Label: Souterrain Transmissions
Genre: Rock
Comments: EMA is Erika M. Anderson, a devastatingly good guitarist who's previously peddled her wares as a member of Amps for Christ and Gowns. The South Dakota native's solo debut, Past Life Martyred Saints, is a collection of crunching, yet still soulful tunes--Anderson's voice has been compared to early Chan Marshall (Cat Power)--that have been run through a wringer of guitar feedback. Maybe that's an unnatural combination, but it really, really works well. Check out "Milkman", "Breakfast" and the 7-minute jam "The Grey Ship".
Artist: EMA
Album: Past Life Martyred Saints
Label: Souterrain Transmissions
Genre: Rock
Comments: EMA is Erika M. Anderson, a devastatingly good guitarist who's previously peddled her wares as a member of Amps for Christ and Gowns. The South Dakota native's solo debut, Past Life Martyred Saints, is a collection of crunching, yet still soulful tunes--Anderson's voice has been compared to early Chan Marshall (Cat Power)--that have been run through a wringer of guitar feedback. Maybe that's an unnatural combination, but it really, really works well. Check out "Milkman", "Breakfast" and the 7-minute jam "The Grey Ship".
Dengue Fever
Add Date: April 12
Artist: Dengue Fever
Album: Cannibal Courtship
Label: Fantasy/Concord
Genre: Rock
Comments: From the promoter: "Dengue Fever['s]... exotic blend of Cambodian rock, Afro grooves, surf, and garage psych returns with Cannibal Courtship... [T]he band has reached a powerful plateau, deftly balancing the wide-ranging influences that inform their sound and songs. Longtime fans will get their required dose of [Cambodian lead singer Chhom] Nimol's haunting vocals and the band's spooky, kinetic, mood-swinging sound on the new disc, but the group, which produced the set together, has upped the creative ante.
"The band's eclecticism gels instantly on the slinky, spiky rock of 'Cement Slippers', 'Family Business', '2012' and 'Cannibal Courtship'. They display a deep pocket and soaring vocals on the Cambodian dub track 'Uku', deliver bilingual, gear-shifting drive on 'Only a Friend', and mesmerize on 'Mr. Bubbles'."
Artist: Dengue Fever
Album: Cannibal Courtship
Label: Fantasy/Concord
Genre: Rock
Comments: From the promoter: "Dengue Fever['s]... exotic blend of Cambodian rock, Afro grooves, surf, and garage psych returns with Cannibal Courtship... [T]he band has reached a powerful plateau, deftly balancing the wide-ranging influences that inform their sound and songs. Longtime fans will get their required dose of [Cambodian lead singer Chhom] Nimol's haunting vocals and the band's spooky, kinetic, mood-swinging sound on the new disc, but the group, which produced the set together, has upped the creative ante.
"The band's eclecticism gels instantly on the slinky, spiky rock of 'Cement Slippers', 'Family Business', '2012' and 'Cannibal Courtship'. They display a deep pocket and soaring vocals on the Cambodian dub track 'Uku', deliver bilingual, gear-shifting drive on 'Only a Friend', and mesmerize on 'Mr. Bubbles'."
Joan As Police Woman
Add Date: April 12
Artist: Joan As Police Woman
Album: The Deep Field
Label: PIAS
Genre: Rock, pop
Comments: A marvelous record from Joan As Police Woman, The Deep Field is Joan Wasser's third release with her current band. Formerly a member of the Dambuilders, Antony & the Johnsons and Rufus Wainwright's band, Wasser's own music is soul and jazz-inflected pop-rock of the highest order. Her sultry, Nina Simone-like vocals flow seamlessly over gorgeous instrumentation, featuring clavinet, Wurlitzer, and the occasional saxophone.
A terrific record from start to finish, but highlights include "The Magic", "Flash" and "Chemmie".
Artist: Joan As Police Woman
Album: The Deep Field
Label: PIAS
Genre: Rock, pop
Comments: A marvelous record from Joan As Police Woman, The Deep Field is Joan Wasser's third release with her current band. Formerly a member of the Dambuilders, Antony & the Johnsons and Rufus Wainwright's band, Wasser's own music is soul and jazz-inflected pop-rock of the highest order. Her sultry, Nina Simone-like vocals flow seamlessly over gorgeous instrumentation, featuring clavinet, Wurlitzer, and the occasional saxophone.
A terrific record from start to finish, but highlights include "The Magic", "Flash" and "Chemmie".
Orchestre Poly-Rythmo
Add Date: April 12
Artist: Orchestre Poly-Rythmo
Album: Cotonou Club
Label: Strut
Genre: International
Comments: Cotonou Club is the first new studio record in a quarter-century from this legendary Beninese band. From the promoter: "Orchestre Poly-Rythmo are national institutions in Benin... Formed during the late '60s, they soundtracked the years following Benin's independence under Kerekou's Leninist-Marxist regime, whipping up a groundbreaking fusion of traditional highlife, Afrobeat, soul, funk and the indigenous styles and voodoo-led traditions of their homeland. Their songs touched on all of their national languages--the Mina French dialect, Fon and Yoruba--and confidently referenced a broad range of international music, from James Brown to Johnny Halliday...
"The band's reputation began spreading to Western audiences in 2004 through a breathtaking Soundway compilation of archive classics and rarities... Since then, the band has reformed, now a 10-piece featuring five original members from the very first '60s incarnation, two from the mid-'70s lineup and three new members... Cotonou Club is... a celebration of the Poly-Rythmo sound with new versions of the band's classics, including massive West African hit 'Gbeti Madjro', and a host of new compositions. Guest appearances include African superstar Angelique Kidjo... and Paul Thomson and Nick McCarthy from indie favourites Franz Ferdinand, both huge fans of the group's sound. Their collaboration, 'Lion Is Burning', storms through with its own unique energy."
Captivating music. Start with tracks 5 (featuring Kidjo), 11 (with Thomson and McCarthy), 1 and 7.
Artist: Orchestre Poly-Rythmo
Album: Cotonou Club
Label: Strut
Genre: International
Comments: Cotonou Club is the first new studio record in a quarter-century from this legendary Beninese band. From the promoter: "Orchestre Poly-Rythmo are national institutions in Benin... Formed during the late '60s, they soundtracked the years following Benin's independence under Kerekou's Leninist-Marxist regime, whipping up a groundbreaking fusion of traditional highlife, Afrobeat, soul, funk and the indigenous styles and voodoo-led traditions of their homeland. Their songs touched on all of their national languages--the Mina French dialect, Fon and Yoruba--and confidently referenced a broad range of international music, from James Brown to Johnny Halliday...
"The band's reputation began spreading to Western audiences in 2004 through a breathtaking Soundway compilation of archive classics and rarities... Since then, the band has reformed, now a 10-piece featuring five original members from the very first '60s incarnation, two from the mid-'70s lineup and three new members... Cotonou Club is... a celebration of the Poly-Rythmo sound with new versions of the band's classics, including massive West African hit 'Gbeti Madjro', and a host of new compositions. Guest appearances include African superstar Angelique Kidjo... and Paul Thomson and Nick McCarthy from indie favourites Franz Ferdinand, both huge fans of the group's sound. Their collaboration, 'Lion Is Burning', storms through with its own unique energy."
Captivating music. Start with tracks 5 (featuring Kidjo), 11 (with Thomson and McCarthy), 1 and 7.
A Million Pieces
Add Date: April 12
Artist: A Million Pieces
Album: A Million Pieces (EP)
Label: Scallywag
Genre: Rock
Comments: The L.A. quartet A Million Pieces veer from synth-driven pop punk to bouncy New Wave on this 6-song EP. Try "Get It Right".
Artist: A Million Pieces
Album: A Million Pieces (EP)
Label: Scallywag
Genre: Rock
Comments: The L.A. quartet A Million Pieces veer from synth-driven pop punk to bouncy New Wave on this 6-song EP. Try "Get It Right".
The Windupdeads
Add Date: April 12
Artist: The Windupdeads
Album: Army of Invisible Men
Label: OK! Good
Genre: Rock
Comments: Hook-filled pop-rock from the Stockholm quartet The Windupdeads on their sophomore release Army of Invisible Men. Check out "59:1".
Artist: The Windupdeads
Album: Army of Invisible Men
Label: OK! Good
Genre: Rock
Comments: Hook-filled pop-rock from the Stockholm quartet The Windupdeads on their sophomore release Army of Invisible Men. Check out "59:1".
The Bewitched Hands
Add Date: April 12
Artist: The Bewitched Hands
Album: Birds & Drums
Label: Sony
Genre: Rock, psych pop
Comments: The best thing I can say about The Bewitched Hands is that they remind me an awful lot of Super Furry Animals. Much like that eclectic Welsh band--and, by the way, we're looking forward to a new solo record from SFA frontman Gruff Rhys, which lands next week--this act, hailing from Reims, France, expertly hops from one style to the next, all while staying within the loose confines of psychedelic pop.
It's obvious that the band members grew up listening to quirky pop music, from Gruff and co. to Elephant 6 (I'm thinking early work by of Montreal, The Apples in stereo and Elf Power, in particular), and Birds & Drums is a very impressive release. Try "Work", the title selection and "Happy With You".
Artist: The Bewitched Hands
Album: Birds & Drums
Label: Sony
Genre: Rock, psych pop
Comments: The best thing I can say about The Bewitched Hands is that they remind me an awful lot of Super Furry Animals. Much like that eclectic Welsh band--and, by the way, we're looking forward to a new solo record from SFA frontman Gruff Rhys, which lands next week--this act, hailing from Reims, France, expertly hops from one style to the next, all while staying within the loose confines of psychedelic pop.
It's obvious that the band members grew up listening to quirky pop music, from Gruff and co. to Elephant 6 (I'm thinking early work by of Montreal, The Apples in stereo and Elf Power, in particular), and Birds & Drums is a very impressive release. Try "Work", the title selection and "Happy With You".
Jonny
Add Date: April 12
Artist: Jonny
Album: Jonny
Label: Merge
Genre: Rock, psych pop
Comments: While Jonny is new, the collaboration between British musical heavyweights Norman Blake (Teenage Fanclub) and Euros Childs (Gorky's Zygotic Minci) goes back nearly 15 years: their bands toured together in 1997, and the former performed on Gorky's 2001 issue How I Long to Feel That Summer in My Heart.
Jonny make melodic psych pop, playing off influences from '60s pop to '80s underground rock--I keep thinking of Robyn Hitchcock while listening to this record--that, while distinct, isn't too far removed from the recent power pop of Blake's main band. Or, for that matter, many of their Merge labelmates; fans of The Clientele and The Essex Green should find something to like on Jonny, and the band will be on tour with Apex Manor this spring.
Start with "Circling the Sun", "Candyfloss" and "Goldmine".
Artist: Jonny
Album: Jonny
Label: Merge
Genre: Rock, psych pop
Comments: While Jonny is new, the collaboration between British musical heavyweights Norman Blake (Teenage Fanclub) and Euros Childs (Gorky's Zygotic Minci) goes back nearly 15 years: their bands toured together in 1997, and the former performed on Gorky's 2001 issue How I Long to Feel That Summer in My Heart.
Jonny make melodic psych pop, playing off influences from '60s pop to '80s underground rock--I keep thinking of Robyn Hitchcock while listening to this record--that, while distinct, isn't too far removed from the recent power pop of Blake's main band. Or, for that matter, many of their Merge labelmates; fans of The Clientele and The Essex Green should find something to like on Jonny, and the band will be on tour with Apex Manor this spring.
Start with "Circling the Sun", "Candyfloss" and "Goldmine".
Tereu Tereu
Add Date: April 12
Artist: Tereu Tereu
Album: NW (EP)
Label: Self-released
Genre: Rock
Comments: Originally from Fredericksburg and now based in Washington, the trio Tereu Tereu, according to the promoter, "play disjointed pop music, mixing elements of D.C. post-punk with melodies influenced by Taureg desert music. They run ear-pleasing hooks through oddball time signatures and punctuate their songs with feedback-laden freakouts. The continuing evolution of the band has brought more focus and darker undercurrents to the music, lyrically grappling with queer suicides and friends lost to cancer. It's a heavier moment for a pop-centric trio, but it's their most ambitious to date."
I think it's a good change in direction for the band, which did the indie-pop thing well--but maybe not distinctively enough to stand out. This standalone 3-song EP will appeal to fans of The Dismemberment Plan, Q and Not U and Les Savy Fav. Check out "Savage Love".
Artist: Tereu Tereu
Album: NW (EP)
Label: Self-released
Genre: Rock
Comments: Originally from Fredericksburg and now based in Washington, the trio Tereu Tereu, according to the promoter, "play disjointed pop music, mixing elements of D.C. post-punk with melodies influenced by Taureg desert music. They run ear-pleasing hooks through oddball time signatures and punctuate their songs with feedback-laden freakouts. The continuing evolution of the band has brought more focus and darker undercurrents to the music, lyrically grappling with queer suicides and friends lost to cancer. It's a heavier moment for a pop-centric trio, but it's their most ambitious to date."
I think it's a good change in direction for the band, which did the indie-pop thing well--but maybe not distinctively enough to stand out. This standalone 3-song EP will appeal to fans of The Dismemberment Plan, Q and Not U and Les Savy Fav. Check out "Savage Love".
Bass Drum of Death
Add Date: April 12
Artist: Bass Drum of Death
Album: GB City
Label: Fat Possum
Genre: Garage rock
Comments: The Mississippi duo Bass Drum of Death make punk-leaning, fuzzy garage rock songs that will appeal to fans of Black Lips, No Age, Cloud Nothings and The Ramones. As the promoter says: "The songs (on GB City) are about drugs, trying to make it with religious girls, panic attacks, stealing stuff, mild to severe depression, Elvis appearing in your dreams and giving you advice, gravity bongs and the devil lying inside your brain."
Adds The New York Times: "Bass Drum of Death, from Oxford, Miss., is John Barrett's baby--he writes the songs, sings the fantastically sleazy and compact lyrics... and plays the fantastically sleazy and compact guitar riffs. The songs on GB City... are surly and mischievous, a pungent, effective collision of garage-rock bashing and Ramones sneer."
Check out "Young Pros", the title track and "Nerve Jamming".
Artist: Bass Drum of Death
Album: GB City
Label: Fat Possum
Genre: Garage rock
Comments: The Mississippi duo Bass Drum of Death make punk-leaning, fuzzy garage rock songs that will appeal to fans of Black Lips, No Age, Cloud Nothings and The Ramones. As the promoter says: "The songs (on GB City) are about drugs, trying to make it with religious girls, panic attacks, stealing stuff, mild to severe depression, Elvis appearing in your dreams and giving you advice, gravity bongs and the devil lying inside your brain."
Adds The New York Times: "Bass Drum of Death, from Oxford, Miss., is John Barrett's baby--he writes the songs, sings the fantastically sleazy and compact lyrics... and plays the fantastically sleazy and compact guitar riffs. The songs on GB City... are surly and mischievous, a pungent, effective collision of garage-rock bashing and Ramones sneer."
Check out "Young Pros", the title track and "Nerve Jamming".
I'm From Barcelona
Add Date: April 12
Artist: I'm From Barcelona
Album: Forever Today
Label: Mute
Genre: Indie pop
Comments: By now, you probably know that I'm From Barcelona aren't from Barcelona, but rather from Sweden. You may also be aware that--despite the other bald-faced lie in the band's name--this is really the antithesis of a solo project; though Emanuel Lundgren writes the music and lyrics, I'm From Barcelona have claimed as many as 29 members. (There are 20 people in the photo in the liner notes for this record, and 21 listed in the credits.)
So this is indie pop on a grand scale, and Forever Today, the third I'm From Barcelona LP, is another fine release. For fans of Acid House Kings, Jens Lekman, Architecture in Helsinki and the like. Start with "Charlie Parker", "Come On" and "Always Spring".
Artist: I'm From Barcelona
Album: Forever Today
Label: Mute
Genre: Indie pop
Comments: By now, you probably know that I'm From Barcelona aren't from Barcelona, but rather from Sweden. You may also be aware that--despite the other bald-faced lie in the band's name--this is really the antithesis of a solo project; though Emanuel Lundgren writes the music and lyrics, I'm From Barcelona have claimed as many as 29 members. (There are 20 people in the photo in the liner notes for this record, and 21 listed in the credits.)
So this is indie pop on a grand scale, and Forever Today, the third I'm From Barcelona LP, is another fine release. For fans of Acid House Kings, Jens Lekman, Architecture in Helsinki and the like. Start with "Charlie Parker", "Come On" and "Always Spring".
TV on the Radio
Add Date: April 12
Artist: TV on the Radio
Album: Nine Types of Light
Label: Interscope
Genre: Rock
Comments: Excellent release from TV on the Radio. The band is back with their fourth studio LP, Nine Types of Light, a mature, thoughtful album that once again sees the group testing the limits of any given genre. The gist of their sound is still well-layered arty "experimental" rock, but this latest release sees the group throwing some curveballs--love songs?--and unsurprisingly, it works. TV on the Radio's music is so thoughtful that it's hard for them to fall flat; the group simply knows how to craft a song, so even when they try something new, it's planned and executed to a T.
That's not to say that the sound on Nine Types of Light is unfamiliar: Tunde Adebimpe's voice is still spot-on, playing nicely with the instrumentation, and the darkly grooving tone of the record is hardly out of left field, but the central brass section is less aggressive, and the electronic quirks and loops are reigned in, if only slightly. Perhaps not as immediately appealing as Dear Science, but Nine Types of Light is certainly a solid release (and for what it's worth, I enjoyed it more on my second listen). Start with tracks 1, 2 and 6.
Artist: TV on the Radio
Album: Nine Types of Light
Label: Interscope
Genre: Rock
Comments: Excellent release from TV on the Radio. The band is back with their fourth studio LP, Nine Types of Light, a mature, thoughtful album that once again sees the group testing the limits of any given genre. The gist of their sound is still well-layered arty "experimental" rock, but this latest release sees the group throwing some curveballs--love songs?--and unsurprisingly, it works. TV on the Radio's music is so thoughtful that it's hard for them to fall flat; the group simply knows how to craft a song, so even when they try something new, it's planned and executed to a T.
That's not to say that the sound on Nine Types of Light is unfamiliar: Tunde Adebimpe's voice is still spot-on, playing nicely with the instrumentation, and the darkly grooving tone of the record is hardly out of left field, but the central brass section is less aggressive, and the electronic quirks and loops are reigned in, if only slightly. Perhaps not as immediately appealing as Dear Science, but Nine Types of Light is certainly a solid release (and for what it's worth, I enjoyed it more on my second listen). Start with tracks 1, 2 and 6.
Shannon and the Clams
Add Date: April 12
Artist: Shannon and the Clams
Album: Sleep Talk
Label: 1-2-3-4 Go!
Genre: Rock
Comments: Super lo-fi garage rock on Sleep Talk, the latest from Shannon and the Clams. Sounding practically straight out of the 1950s, the record is up-front, surf-y garage rock, complete with slightly distorted vocal harmonies, prominent guitar and steady percussion. Feel-good and catchy with an unexpected, tangible punk influence on certain tracks; start with 1, 2, 6 and 7.
Artist: Shannon and the Clams
Album: Sleep Talk
Label: 1-2-3-4 Go!
Genre: Rock
Comments: Super lo-fi garage rock on Sleep Talk, the latest from Shannon and the Clams. Sounding practically straight out of the 1950s, the record is up-front, surf-y garage rock, complete with slightly distorted vocal harmonies, prominent guitar and steady percussion. Feel-good and catchy with an unexpected, tangible punk influence on certain tracks; start with 1, 2, 6 and 7.
TRON: Legacy RECONFIGURED
Add Date: April 12
Artist: Daft Punk/Various Artists
Album: TRON: Legacy RECONFIGURED
Label: Walt Disney
Genre: Compilations/soundtracks, electronica, pop
Comments: Daft Punk's TRON: Legacy soundtrack has been remixed into TRON: Legacy RECONFIGURED. The redone soundtrack features a variety of DJs, producers, and remixers taking on single tracks; the result is 15 unique takes on Daft Punk's sound. Contributors include Moby, Paul Oakenfold, The Crystal Method, Boys Noize and Pretty Lights; overall, the soundtrack gets a fresh spin (but the Daft Punk remains). Start with tracks 1, 3 and 8.
Artist: Daft Punk/Various Artists
Album: TRON: Legacy RECONFIGURED
Label: Walt Disney
Genre: Compilations/soundtracks, electronica, pop
Comments: Daft Punk's TRON: Legacy soundtrack has been remixed into TRON: Legacy RECONFIGURED. The redone soundtrack features a variety of DJs, producers, and remixers taking on single tracks; the result is 15 unique takes on Daft Punk's sound. Contributors include Moby, Paul Oakenfold, The Crystal Method, Boys Noize and Pretty Lights; overall, the soundtrack gets a fresh spin (but the Daft Punk remains). Start with tracks 1, 3 and 8.
Wagon Christ
Add Date: April 12
Artist: Wagon Christ
Album: Toomorrow
Label: Ninja Tune
Genre: Electronica
Comments: Wagon Christ's Toomorrow is an electronic album focused on unique vocal samples, rhythms, and a summery, chic-lounge, slightly psychedelic vibe. Glitches, some trip-hop references, occasional heavy bass lines, keyboards and tons of other elements combine to give the record an experimental but relaxed feel. Chilled out and perfect for the spring weather; start with tracks 2, 4 and 13.
Artist: Wagon Christ
Album: Toomorrow
Label: Ninja Tune
Genre: Electronica
Comments: Wagon Christ's Toomorrow is an electronic album focused on unique vocal samples, rhythms, and a summery, chic-lounge, slightly psychedelic vibe. Glitches, some trip-hop references, occasional heavy bass lines, keyboards and tons of other elements combine to give the record an experimental but relaxed feel. Chilled out and perfect for the spring weather; start with tracks 2, 4 and 13.
Thursday, April 7, 2011
Best New Music - April 5
So much good music this week. Top adds:
More, more, more: Alela Diane, The Kills, Femi Kuti, Low, O'Death, Timber Timbre
And we finally have The Strokes' new record, too...
Vivian Girls
Add Date: April 5
Artist: Vivian Girls
Album: Share the Joy
Label: Polyvinyl
Genre: Rock
Comments: If you were to develop your impression of the Vivian Girls solely from listening to "Take It As It Comes", one of the standout tracks from the trio's new LP, you'd gather that the band is unabashedly stuck in the 1960s. From the spoken-word parts (about a teenage crush, no less) to that sweet melody, it'd be pretty easy to pigeonhole the band as strict pop revivalists.
But listen to Share the Joy in its entirety, and you'll quickly find that there's a lot more going on than the band's excellent rehash of classic pop. The album begins and ends with 6-minute songs--not exactly "pop" in its purest sense, and quite unexpected for a band that was originally known for playing a full, and fairly comprehensive, live set in about 25 minutes--that veer more toward '80s shoegaze rock. And the lead single, "I Heard You Say", is the band at its best: mashing up girl-group harmonies and post-punk rhythms into a sound that distinctly belongs to the Vivian Girls.
A fine record--check out 2, 7, 3 and 10.
Artist: Vivian Girls
Album: Share the Joy
Label: Polyvinyl
Genre: Rock
Comments: If you were to develop your impression of the Vivian Girls solely from listening to "Take It As It Comes", one of the standout tracks from the trio's new LP, you'd gather that the band is unabashedly stuck in the 1960s. From the spoken-word parts (about a teenage crush, no less) to that sweet melody, it'd be pretty easy to pigeonhole the band as strict pop revivalists.
But listen to Share the Joy in its entirety, and you'll quickly find that there's a lot more going on than the band's excellent rehash of classic pop. The album begins and ends with 6-minute songs--not exactly "pop" in its purest sense, and quite unexpected for a band that was originally known for playing a full, and fairly comprehensive, live set in about 25 minutes--that veer more toward '80s shoegaze rock. And the lead single, "I Heard You Say", is the band at its best: mashing up girl-group harmonies and post-punk rhythms into a sound that distinctly belongs to the Vivian Girls.
A fine record--check out 2, 7, 3 and 10.
Low
Add Date: April 5
Artist: Low
Album: C'Mon
Label: Sub Pop
Genre: Rock, dream pop
Comments: Low's first two records for Sub Pop seemed to take the band away from its slowcore roots: there was an album of crunchy rock songs (2005's The Great Destroyer) and one of songs driven by synths and drum loops (2007's Drums and Guns). While both were enjoyable LPs, 2011's C'Mon is stylistically more in line with the first decade of the band's prolific career. And it's quite terrific: dreamy, hazy, ethereal pop songs, with vocals alternating between Alan Sparhawk and Mimi Parker.
For fans of Beach House, Galaxie 500, Hope Sandoval/Mazzy Star and Red House Painters. Start with "Try to Sleep", "Especially Me", "Witches" and the hauntingly beautiful 8-minute sprawl of "Nothing But Heart".
Artist: Low
Album: C'Mon
Label: Sub Pop
Genre: Rock, dream pop
Comments: Low's first two records for Sub Pop seemed to take the band away from its slowcore roots: there was an album of crunchy rock songs (2005's The Great Destroyer) and one of songs driven by synths and drum loops (2007's Drums and Guns). While both were enjoyable LPs, 2011's C'Mon is stylistically more in line with the first decade of the band's prolific career. And it's quite terrific: dreamy, hazy, ethereal pop songs, with vocals alternating between Alan Sparhawk and Mimi Parker.
For fans of Beach House, Galaxie 500, Hope Sandoval/Mazzy Star and Red House Painters. Start with "Try to Sleep", "Especially Me", "Witches" and the hauntingly beautiful 8-minute sprawl of "Nothing But Heart".
The Kills
Add Date: April 5
Artist: The Kills
Album: Blood Pressures
Genre: Rock
Comments: The Kills' fourth album, Blood Pressures, sees the UK duo (Jamie Hince and Alison Mosshart) return in excellent form. Hard-edged, garage-y, blues-y guitar, vocal swagger and steady, rhythmic percussion combine to give the record its slightly dark vibe; the sound is consistent and well-developed across the entire album. Try "Future Starts Slow", with its textural Hince-and-Mosshart vocals and catchy guitar line; as well as "Satellite", with layered harmonies that give the track a creepy-gospel-choral vibe. Overall, an excellent album; start with tracks 1, 2 and 6.
Artist: The Kills
Album: Blood Pressures
Genre: Rock
Comments: The Kills' fourth album, Blood Pressures, sees the UK duo (Jamie Hince and Alison Mosshart) return in excellent form. Hard-edged, garage-y, blues-y guitar, vocal swagger and steady, rhythmic percussion combine to give the record its slightly dark vibe; the sound is consistent and well-developed across the entire album. Try "Future Starts Slow", with its textural Hince-and-Mosshart vocals and catchy guitar line; as well as "Satellite", with layered harmonies that give the track a creepy-gospel-choral vibe. Overall, an excellent album; start with tracks 1, 2 and 6.
My Fiction
Add Date: April 5
Artist: My Fiction
Album: Fire Romance Fire
Label: Sugar Rush
Genre: Rock
Comments: Indie rock gets some nice electro touches on My Fiction's Fire Romance Fire. The record is expansive--prominent guitars, melodic, and dramatic vocals--and energetic. Try tracks 1 and 2.
Artist: My Fiction
Album: Fire Romance Fire
Label: Sugar Rush
Genre: Rock
Comments: Indie rock gets some nice electro touches on My Fiction's Fire Romance Fire. The record is expansive--prominent guitars, melodic, and dramatic vocals--and energetic. Try tracks 1 and 2.
Jets Overhead
Add Date: April 5
Artist: Jets Overhead
Album: Bystander (EP)
Label: Self-released
Genre: Rock
Comments: Bystander, the latest EP from Canadian group Jets Overhead, is a delightful rock sampling. The mix of male and female vocals nicely compliments the typical rock instrumentation; the tracks tend to be expansive and relaxed. Try tracks 1 and 2.
Artist: Jets Overhead
Album: Bystander (EP)
Label: Self-released
Genre: Rock
Comments: Bystander, the latest EP from Canadian group Jets Overhead, is a delightful rock sampling. The mix of male and female vocals nicely compliments the typical rock instrumentation; the tracks tend to be expansive and relaxed. Try tracks 1 and 2.
Kellarissa
Add Date: April 5
Artist: Kellarissa
Album: Moon of Neptune
Label: Mint
Genre: Electropop, alt-pop
Comments: The vibe of Kellarissa's latest record, Moon of Neptune, is undeniably creepy. But that's not necessarily a bad thing--the carnival-esque vibe, created by distorted electronic keyboards and organ lines--suits Kellarissa's quite gorgeous, haunting vocals. Synthesizer, drums, and Kellarissa's voice are the staples of Moon of Neptune, which is overall a quirky but enjoyable record. RIYL: Bat for Lashes; try tracks 2, 6 and 10.
Artist: Kellarissa
Album: Moon of Neptune
Label: Mint
Genre: Electropop, alt-pop
Comments: The vibe of Kellarissa's latest record, Moon of Neptune, is undeniably creepy. But that's not necessarily a bad thing--the carnival-esque vibe, created by distorted electronic keyboards and organ lines--suits Kellarissa's quite gorgeous, haunting vocals. Synthesizer, drums, and Kellarissa's voice are the staples of Moon of Neptune, which is overall a quirky but enjoyable record. RIYL: Bat for Lashes; try tracks 2, 6 and 10.
Wiz Khalifa
Add Date: April 5
Artist: Wiz Khalifa
Album: Rolling Papers
Label: Atlantic
Genre: Hip hop
Comments: Wiz Khalifa's Rolling Papers is first and foremost a radio-friendly hip-hop record. Accessible to those who aren't super-into the rap scene, the record is enjoyable, even if not remarkable. Overall, it's catchy, unaggressive, and laid-back, and yes, Steelers theme song/Philly anthem "Black and Yellow" is on here. While his relaxed rapping style sometimes blends too heavily into the slow-paced beats, the tracks with reliable, steady, more prominent beats (such as "Black and Yellow" and "Fly Solo") are where Khalifa's sound succeeds. Try tracks 3 and 12.
Artist: Wiz Khalifa
Album: Rolling Papers
Label: Atlantic
Genre: Hip hop
Comments: Wiz Khalifa's Rolling Papers is first and foremost a radio-friendly hip-hop record. Accessible to those who aren't super-into the rap scene, the record is enjoyable, even if not remarkable. Overall, it's catchy, unaggressive, and laid-back, and yes, Steelers theme song/Philly anthem "Black and Yellow" is on here. While his relaxed rapping style sometimes blends too heavily into the slow-paced beats, the tracks with reliable, steady, more prominent beats (such as "Black and Yellow" and "Fly Solo") are where Khalifa's sound succeeds. Try tracks 3 and 12.
Alela Diane
Add Date: April 5
Artist: Alela Diane
Album: Alela Diane & Wild Divine
Label: Rough Trade
Genre: Folk
Comments: Another stunning collection of folk tunes from the West Coast musician Alela Diane, Alela Diane & Wild Divine marks her second release for Rough Trade (The Morning Benders, British Sea Power, Jarvis Cocker) and her third proper LP overall. Steeped in American and British folk traditions, Alela Diane's music has always held appeal for fans of Joni Mitchell, Vashti Bunyan, Bob Dylan and the like, and it also fits right in with modern artists like Devendra Banhart and The Tallest Man on Earth. I'm obligated to mention Joanna Newsom, too, since they share the hometown of Nevada City, Calif.--and because Newsom helped Alela's music get noticed a few years back. Though I wouldn't say that there's too much overlap in style between the two, they're both terrific, innovative songwriters.
Another excellent LP from Alela Diane--this is beautiful folk music, highlighted by the pedal steel that pops up throughout the record, but always carried by Alela's gorgeous vocals. Start with "Elijah", "Heartless Highway" and "To Begin".
Artist: Alela Diane
Album: Alela Diane & Wild Divine
Label: Rough Trade
Genre: Folk
Comments: Another stunning collection of folk tunes from the West Coast musician Alela Diane, Alela Diane & Wild Divine marks her second release for Rough Trade (The Morning Benders, British Sea Power, Jarvis Cocker) and her third proper LP overall. Steeped in American and British folk traditions, Alela Diane's music has always held appeal for fans of Joni Mitchell, Vashti Bunyan, Bob Dylan and the like, and it also fits right in with modern artists like Devendra Banhart and The Tallest Man on Earth. I'm obligated to mention Joanna Newsom, too, since they share the hometown of Nevada City, Calif.--and because Newsom helped Alela's music get noticed a few years back. Though I wouldn't say that there's too much overlap in style between the two, they're both terrific, innovative songwriters.
Another excellent LP from Alela Diane--this is beautiful folk music, highlighted by the pedal steel that pops up throughout the record, but always carried by Alela's gorgeous vocals. Start with "Elijah", "Heartless Highway" and "To Begin".
Movits!
Add Date: April 5
Artist: Movits!
Album: Out of My Head
Label: Slimstyle
Genre: Pop
Comments: Hailed as the biggest thing to come out of Sweden since ABBA and those delicious red fish, Movits! will fulfill all of your Euro-pop/dance/"I don't care that I don't understand what they're saying" needs. Out of My Head proves a little frenetic and a lot of fun, even though all the words are in Swedish. Great dance music, and definitely music needing analysis. Try "Sammy Davis Jr.".
Artist: Movits!
Album: Out of My Head
Label: Slimstyle
Genre: Pop
Comments: Hailed as the biggest thing to come out of Sweden since ABBA and those delicious red fish, Movits! will fulfill all of your Euro-pop/dance/"I don't care that I don't understand what they're saying" needs. Out of My Head proves a little frenetic and a lot of fun, even though all the words are in Swedish. Great dance music, and definitely music needing analysis. Try "Sammy Davis Jr.".
Generationals
Add Date: April 5
Artist: Generationals
Album: Actor-Caster
Label: Park the Van
Genre: Indie pop
Comments: Generationals' Actor-Caster stays on par with their debut release, Con Law. This indie-pop duo finds strength in a 1960s root and the ability to branch into either fuzzy rock-lite or saccharine pop, but always holding onto a wide, commercial appeal. The first half of the album is notably stronger and more defined than the second. Start with "Ten-Twenty-Ten".
Artist: Generationals
Album: Actor-Caster
Label: Park the Van
Genre: Indie pop
Comments: Generationals' Actor-Caster stays on par with their debut release, Con Law. This indie-pop duo finds strength in a 1960s root and the ability to branch into either fuzzy rock-lite or saccharine pop, but always holding onto a wide, commercial appeal. The first half of the album is notably stronger and more defined than the second. Start with "Ten-Twenty-Ten".
Timber Timbre
Add Date: April 5
Artist: Timber Timbre
Album: Creep On Creepin' On
Label: Arts & Crafts
Genre: Blues, folk, alternative
Comments: The Canadian trio Timber Timbre breaks from their fuller folksy past and transitions to a darker vibe for their fourth album, Creep On Creepin' On. Here, the band sounds just like the album title. The music embraces the swampland of the South in a sound both haunting and enticing, made creepy by the everlasting duo of high-pitched piano keys underlying the majority of the tracks. On first listen, the album will either be truly scary or comedic, but it can be fully appreciated with an open mind and an affinity for Tom Waits.
Artist: Timber Timbre
Album: Creep On Creepin' On
Label: Arts & Crafts
Genre: Blues, folk, alternative
Comments: The Canadian trio Timber Timbre breaks from their fuller folksy past and transitions to a darker vibe for their fourth album, Creep On Creepin' On. Here, the band sounds just like the album title. The music embraces the swampland of the South in a sound both haunting and enticing, made creepy by the everlasting duo of high-pitched piano keys underlying the majority of the tracks. On first listen, the album will either be truly scary or comedic, but it can be fully appreciated with an open mind and an affinity for Tom Waits.
Maritime
Add Date: April 5
Artist: Maritime
Album: Human Hearts
Label: Dangerbird
Genre: Indie rock
Comments: This indie rock powerhouse has finally lived up to their Promise Ring/Dismemberment Plan potential. Maritime's 2006 release, We, The Vehicles, proved strong and remains a testament to all that is loved about indie rock--singable melodies, cohesive instrumentals and tracks, and all under the influence of the slight edginess of discontentment and angst. Human Hearts builds on this tried and true formula with a harder and darker tint. The songs still carry a quirkiness, but with a bigger breadth of emotion backed up by the rise and fall of the extremely full instrumentals. The band has truly grown. Start with "Paraphenalia" and "Air Arizona".
Artist: Maritime
Album: Human Hearts
Label: Dangerbird
Genre: Indie rock
Comments: This indie rock powerhouse has finally lived up to their Promise Ring/Dismemberment Plan potential. Maritime's 2006 release, We, The Vehicles, proved strong and remains a testament to all that is loved about indie rock--singable melodies, cohesive instrumentals and tracks, and all under the influence of the slight edginess of discontentment and angst. Human Hearts builds on this tried and true formula with a harder and darker tint. The songs still carry a quirkiness, but with a bigger breadth of emotion backed up by the rise and fall of the extremely full instrumentals. The band has truly grown. Start with "Paraphenalia" and "Air Arizona".
Quintron
Add Date: April 5
Artist: Quintron
Album: Sucre Du Sauvage
Label: Goner
Genre: Rock, experimental
Comments: This album is as strange as it is great... and it's really strange. It's kinda shoegazy, and kinda bluesy, and kinda post-punk. All of the songs are super energetic and fun. I am thrilled by this record, to tell you the truth.
The promoter sheds a lot of light on this album: Quintron made this record "at the New Orleans Museum of Art for an exhibit. Using his own uniquely designed instrument, The Drum Buddy, Quintron uses light receptors to create sound. Catchy tracks such as 'All Night Right Away' and 'Banana Beat', a tune that features Miss Pussycat on vocals, contrast starkly with the second half of the album, which is largely instrumental and experimental. Field recordings from the museum blend with organs, chimes and samples to create a cinematic exploration."
Start with 2, 5, 4 and 7.
Artist: Quintron
Album: Sucre Du Sauvage
Label: Goner
Genre: Rock, experimental
Comments: This album is as strange as it is great... and it's really strange. It's kinda shoegazy, and kinda bluesy, and kinda post-punk. All of the songs are super energetic and fun. I am thrilled by this record, to tell you the truth.
The promoter sheds a lot of light on this album: Quintron made this record "at the New Orleans Museum of Art for an exhibit. Using his own uniquely designed instrument, The Drum Buddy, Quintron uses light receptors to create sound. Catchy tracks such as 'All Night Right Away' and 'Banana Beat', a tune that features Miss Pussycat on vocals, contrast starkly with the second half of the album, which is largely instrumental and experimental. Field recordings from the museum blend with organs, chimes and samples to create a cinematic exploration."
Start with 2, 5, 4 and 7.
Medals
Add Date: April 5
Artist: Medals
Album: Dancing in Ceremony
Label: Self-released
Genre: Pop, folk
Comments: This album is atmospheric, melodic and full of various layers. The lead singer's voice reminds me of a B-rate Matt Berninger (from The National). The songs often switch from super high-energy, to slow, and then upbeat again. Medals isn't a well-known band, so if you're into lo-fi sounds that are still obviously full of passion, check this record out. Start with 3, 1 and 4.
Artist: Medals
Album: Dancing in Ceremony
Label: Self-released
Genre: Pop, folk
Comments: This album is atmospheric, melodic and full of various layers. The lead singer's voice reminds me of a B-rate Matt Berninger (from The National). The songs often switch from super high-energy, to slow, and then upbeat again. Medals isn't a well-known band, so if you're into lo-fi sounds that are still obviously full of passion, check this record out. Start with 3, 1 and 4.
The Strokes
Add Date: April 5
Artist: The Strokes
Album: Angles
Label: RCA
Genre: Rock, pop
Comments: This record shows that The Strokes are alive again. After a hiatus of nearly four years, they've released Angles, which definitely boasts a mature sound full of melodies, interesting rhythms, and the post-punk sonics that they're so well known for. You should definitely check this out album: It's The Strokes in 2011, a progressive and filled-out sound that's full of energy and great pop tunes. Start with 2, 1, 5 and 3.
Artist: The Strokes
Album: Angles
Label: RCA
Genre: Rock, pop
Comments: This record shows that The Strokes are alive again. After a hiatus of nearly four years, they've released Angles, which definitely boasts a mature sound full of melodies, interesting rhythms, and the post-punk sonics that they're so well known for. You should definitely check this out album: It's The Strokes in 2011, a progressive and filled-out sound that's full of energy and great pop tunes. Start with 2, 1, 5 and 3.
Unkle
Add Date: April 5
Artist: Unkle
Album: Only the Lonely (EP)
Label: Surrender
Genre: Rock, punk
Comments: Interesting EP. The first track features Nick Cave, and the whole EP seems to be heavily influenced by the Bad Seeds (and other Cave projects). In fact, each track features a different lead singer. This makes for a super-dynamic and interesting set of songs. One commonality is that all of these tracks are super dark and droney (which isn't a word, but it works). Start with 2, 1 and 4.
Artist: Unkle
Album: Only the Lonely (EP)
Label: Surrender
Genre: Rock, punk
Comments: Interesting EP. The first track features Nick Cave, and the whole EP seems to be heavily influenced by the Bad Seeds (and other Cave projects). In fact, each track features a different lead singer. This makes for a super-dynamic and interesting set of songs. One commonality is that all of these tracks are super dark and droney (which isn't a word, but it works). Start with 2, 1 and 4.
The Death Set
Add Date: April 5
Artist: The Death Set
Album: Michel Poiccard
Label: Counter
Genre: Pop, punk, metal
Comments: This band does the kind of punk-pop that the Cold War Kids do, but better. This is a great album, and definitely worth checking out if you're looking for a high-energy, half-punk, half-melodic/pop record to spin.
From the promoter: "Michel Poiccard is an album which loses none of the charm from [The Death Set's] previous 'punk spazz' work but adds considerable death, both in terms of punch... and in terms of a sense of desperate loss or longing, which permeates everything on the record and reaches a considerable pinnacle on 'I Miss You Beua Velasco'."
Start with 2, 3 and 7.
Artist: The Death Set
Album: Michel Poiccard
Label: Counter
Genre: Pop, punk, metal
Comments: This band does the kind of punk-pop that the Cold War Kids do, but better. This is a great album, and definitely worth checking out if you're looking for a high-energy, half-punk, half-melodic/pop record to spin.
From the promoter: "Michel Poiccard is an album which loses none of the charm from [The Death Set's] previous 'punk spazz' work but adds considerable death, both in terms of punch... and in terms of a sense of desperate loss or longing, which permeates everything on the record and reaches a considerable pinnacle on 'I Miss You Beua Velasco'."
Start with 2, 3 and 7.
O'Death
Add Date: April 5
Artist: O'Death
Album: Outside
Label: Ernest Jenning
Genre: Folk rock
Comments: O'Death returns with their fourth full-length, Outside, arguably their most mature record to date. Full of dark, melodic folk rock, O'Death blends bluegrass sentiments; hard, steady drums; and moody vocals to create an almost mournful ambiance. You'd almost never guess they hail from New York. Well-executed and supremely enjoyable--"Gothic Americana," if you will; try tracks 1, 3, 5 and 6.
Bonus: If you've never seen the video "Down to Rest" off of their debut Head Home, take a look--this was the first O'Death song I heard and what hooked me. Supremely awesome.
Artist: O'Death
Album: Outside
Label: Ernest Jenning
Genre: Folk rock
Comments: O'Death returns with their fourth full-length, Outside, arguably their most mature record to date. Full of dark, melodic folk rock, O'Death blends bluegrass sentiments; hard, steady drums; and moody vocals to create an almost mournful ambiance. You'd almost never guess they hail from New York. Well-executed and supremely enjoyable--"Gothic Americana," if you will; try tracks 1, 3, 5 and 6.
Bonus: If you've never seen the video "Down to Rest" off of their debut Head Home, take a look--this was the first O'Death song I heard and what hooked me. Supremely awesome.
Cold Cave
Add Date: April 5
Artist: Cold Cave
Album: Cherish the Light Years
Label: Matador
Genre: Electropop, experimental
Comments: Cold Cave's Love Comes Close was perhaps one of my favorite debut records in recent memory, a prime example of experimental, gothy, murky electro. The band's latest, Cherish the Light Years, is successful in dodging the follow-up slump; although Love Comes Close will always win out in a throwdown, Cherish the Light Years certainly holds its own.
Referencing New Wave and the Darkwave movement, Cold Cave's sound is very obviously '80s-inspired: if you hate New Order, Depeche Mode, and The Cure, you're probably going to pass on Cold Cave. But, arguably, it would be your loss--Wesley Eisold (Cold Cave's creator, who basically runs everything and brings in a rotating group of artists) has an incredibly emotive voice; the romantic dramatics of his moody vocals combine fantastically with the wall of synths.
Overall, Cherish The Light Years is definitely more aggressive in its goth-pop sound when compared to Cold Cave's earlier releases--it's much, much louder--but Eisold takes to this new soundscape well. Transitioning from understated to aggressive is difficult, but Cold Cave manages the shift well. Start with tracks 1, 3 and 9.
Artist: Cold Cave
Album: Cherish the Light Years
Label: Matador
Genre: Electropop, experimental
Comments: Cold Cave's Love Comes Close was perhaps one of my favorite debut records in recent memory, a prime example of experimental, gothy, murky electro. The band's latest, Cherish the Light Years, is successful in dodging the follow-up slump; although Love Comes Close will always win out in a throwdown, Cherish the Light Years certainly holds its own.
Referencing New Wave and the Darkwave movement, Cold Cave's sound is very obviously '80s-inspired: if you hate New Order, Depeche Mode, and The Cure, you're probably going to pass on Cold Cave. But, arguably, it would be your loss--Wesley Eisold (Cold Cave's creator, who basically runs everything and brings in a rotating group of artists) has an incredibly emotive voice; the romantic dramatics of his moody vocals combine fantastically with the wall of synths.
Overall, Cherish The Light Years is definitely more aggressive in its goth-pop sound when compared to Cold Cave's earlier releases--it's much, much louder--but Eisold takes to this new soundscape well. Transitioning from understated to aggressive is difficult, but Cold Cave manages the shift well. Start with tracks 1, 3 and 9.
Femi Kuti
Add Date: April 5
Artist: Femi Kuti
Album: Africa for Africa
Label: Knitting Factory
Genre: International, Afrobeat
Comments: Femi Kuti returns with Africa for Africa, the latest record in his expansive musical career. The son of famed Nigerian Afrobeat legend Fela Kuti, Femi is a musical talent in his own right. Africa for Africa sees Kuti combine the Afrobeat tradition with elements of jazz and a tangibly energetic spirit; ongoing brass elements, traditional "call and response" vocals, and largely political lyrics combine to give Kuti's Afrobeat interpretation a personal touch. Start with tracks 1, 3 and 6.
Artist: Femi Kuti
Album: Africa for Africa
Label: Knitting Factory
Genre: International, Afrobeat
Comments: Femi Kuti returns with Africa for Africa, the latest record in his expansive musical career. The son of famed Nigerian Afrobeat legend Fela Kuti, Femi is a musical talent in his own right. Africa for Africa sees Kuti combine the Afrobeat tradition with elements of jazz and a tangibly energetic spirit; ongoing brass elements, traditional "call and response" vocals, and largely political lyrics combine to give Kuti's Afrobeat interpretation a personal touch. Start with tracks 1, 3 and 6.
Crystal Stilts
Add Date: April 5
Artist: Crystal Stilts
Album: In Love With Oblivion
Label: Slumberland
Genre: Pop, garage
Comments: Referencing shoegaze, noise pop, general garage rock and '60s psychedelia, Crystal Stilts' In Love With Oblivion is a wonderful record, "chock full of droning-organ [and] druggy-bassline". Lo-fi production, a nice level of reverb, the occasional tambourine, and monotone vocals combine to create a hazy pop atmosphere that's delightfully heavy, but far from depressing. Start with tracks 1, 2, 5 and 10.
Artist: Crystal Stilts
Album: In Love With Oblivion
Label: Slumberland
Genre: Pop, garage
Comments: Referencing shoegaze, noise pop, general garage rock and '60s psychedelia, Crystal Stilts' In Love With Oblivion is a wonderful record, "chock full of droning-organ [and] druggy-bassline". Lo-fi production, a nice level of reverb, the occasional tambourine, and monotone vocals combine to create a hazy pop atmosphere that's delightfully heavy, but far from depressing. Start with tracks 1, 2, 5 and 10.
Bell X1
Add Date: April 5
Artist: Bell X1
Album: Bloodless Coup
Label: Yep Roc
Genre: Rock, alt-pop
Comments: From the promoter: "One of Ireland's top-selling recording artists for over half a decade... Bell X1 are a mainstream phenomenon with cult cred... Bloodless Coup marks the band's fifth album and as many marriages of the proven Bell X1 formula with fresh musical textures. This time, the band blends electronic musings with the hook-laden song craft of songwriter and vocalist Paul Noonan. The result is touching songs with propulsive, addictive sonics... RIYL: Talking Heads, XTC, Sigur Ros, Radiohead..."
That pretty much sums up Bloodless Coup--this is a very good record from a band that still seems to be flying under the radar on this side of the Atlantic. Start with "Hey Anna Lena", "Safer Than Love" and "Velcro".
Artist: Bell X1
Album: Bloodless Coup
Label: Yep Roc
Genre: Rock, alt-pop
Comments: From the promoter: "One of Ireland's top-selling recording artists for over half a decade... Bell X1 are a mainstream phenomenon with cult cred... Bloodless Coup marks the band's fifth album and as many marriages of the proven Bell X1 formula with fresh musical textures. This time, the band blends electronic musings with the hook-laden song craft of songwriter and vocalist Paul Noonan. The result is touching songs with propulsive, addictive sonics... RIYL: Talking Heads, XTC, Sigur Ros, Radiohead..."
That pretty much sums up Bloodless Coup--this is a very good record from a band that still seems to be flying under the radar on this side of the Atlantic. Start with "Hey Anna Lena", "Safer Than Love" and "Velcro".
Dikta
Add Date: April 5
Artist: Dikta
Album: Thank You EP
Label: Self-released
Genre: Rock
Comments: Icelandic music is known for, well, being a little out there. That's certainly not a slam; think about the stuff that you've heard from that island: Bjork, Sigur Ros, Mum--excellent artists, all, but not exactly your standard pop music. In that context, Reykjavik's Dikta, which is essentially your typical alternative band (talking in terms of style, not quality), sounds quite unconventional. The 6-song Thank You EP starts out with two Muse-leaning prog-rock jams, veers into indie pop and finishes with a pair of acoustic-driven ballads. I'd say they do the rock songs best, so check out the title track and "Breaking the Waves".
Artist: Dikta
Album: Thank You EP
Label: Self-released
Genre: Rock
Comments: Icelandic music is known for, well, being a little out there. That's certainly not a slam; think about the stuff that you've heard from that island: Bjork, Sigur Ros, Mum--excellent artists, all, but not exactly your standard pop music. In that context, Reykjavik's Dikta, which is essentially your typical alternative band (talking in terms of style, not quality), sounds quite unconventional. The 6-song Thank You EP starts out with two Muse-leaning prog-rock jams, veers into indie pop and finishes with a pair of acoustic-driven ballads. I'd say they do the rock songs best, so check out the title track and "Breaking the Waves".
Chapman & Brocker
Add Date: April 5
Artist: Chapman & Brocker
Album: Dance of the Crazy Man
Label: Self-released
Genre: Rock
Comments: Dance of the Crazy Man, the debut from the brothers Chapman and Brocker Way, was originally released in 2007, and it's finally made its way from southern California to western Virginia. This is literate pop that pulls in acoustic instruments and synths, piano and percussion, harpsichord and handclaps--all to great effect. Check out "Chimes", "Ozymandias" and "The Hearth".
Artist: Chapman & Brocker
Album: Dance of the Crazy Man
Label: Self-released
Genre: Rock
Comments: Dance of the Crazy Man, the debut from the brothers Chapman and Brocker Way, was originally released in 2007, and it's finally made its way from southern California to western Virginia. This is literate pop that pulls in acoustic instruments and synths, piano and percussion, harpsichord and handclaps--all to great effect. Check out "Chimes", "Ozymandias" and "The Hearth".
Hollus
Add Date: April 5
Artist: Hollus
Album: Part One (EP)
Label: Self-released
Genre: Rock, alternative
Comments: The Chicago band Hollus makes modern alternative influenced by '60s and '70s psych rock and pop. This is a very solid 6-song EP; start with the rocking lead track, "Midnight", and also check out the Byrds-inspired number "Songs That You Love".
Artist: Hollus
Album: Part One (EP)
Label: Self-released
Genre: Rock, alternative
Comments: The Chicago band Hollus makes modern alternative influenced by '60s and '70s psych rock and pop. This is a very solid 6-song EP; start with the rocking lead track, "Midnight", and also check out the Byrds-inspired number "Songs That You Love".
Wires in the Walls
Add Date: April 5
Artist: Wires in the Walls
Album: Call Signs (EP)
Label: Self-released
Genre: Rock
Comments: Listening to Call Signs, a 4-song EP from the L.A. band Wires in the Walls, I can't help but think of Better Than Ezra. That country-inflected '90s alternative sound is clearly what the quartet is going for here, and it's done well on tracks like "Gasoline".
Artist: Wires in the Walls
Album: Call Signs (EP)
Label: Self-released
Genre: Rock
Comments: Listening to Call Signs, a 4-song EP from the L.A. band Wires in the Walls, I can't help but think of Better Than Ezra. That country-inflected '90s alternative sound is clearly what the quartet is going for here, and it's done well on tracks like "Gasoline".
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