Lunedì 31 Mag 2010, 7:54
The idea is for a journal for every month listing new albums I listen to and what I think so that when I review the year's music in December, I will have a handy reminder.
I will add to this as the month goes on. Suggestions welcome.
Play the radio: My Gang Featured Albums 10 http://static.last.fm/matt/tinyradio.gif
Previous Journals:
January 2010 | February 2010 | March 2010 | April 2010 | May 2010
w/c Mon 31 May:
http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/511ys6xhKkL._SL160_AA115_.jpg The Glitch Mob - Drink The Sea
The Bay Area dance trio and festival favorite looks to break out with this debut album. (Spinner) Glitch, sort of. The future sound of dance? Really like this. Makes no sense, can't describe it, all I can say is it sounds extremely cool, and so good it sounds great turned low as well as it should be - up. Production and ideas remind me a lot of Yeasayer.
We7 | Spotify | MySpace
http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/513ahSvjGyL._SL160_AA115_.jpg Peter Wolf Crier - Inter-Be
The Minneapolis-based indie rock duo releases its first album. (Spinner) Enjoyed it inspite of myself. Was determined not to, but it crept in. At times Devendra Banhart, then Turin Brakes, then other stylised variations and back again, but the music is consistent, rising to gorgeous by track 4, Untitled 101. A good background album with fuzzy fizzy bits to savour.
We7 | Spotify | MySpace
http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/610PGf4Gf8L._SL160_AA115_.jpg Peg Simone - Secrets From the Storm
The singer-songwriter collaborated with writer Holly Anderson on this EP. (Spinner) Actually listened to this last week but didn't write it up. Slow blues, very calming and whilst not ambient, has the same effect. Only 5 tracks but the music stalls time, especially given first track is 22 minutes long. Music to unwind to or fall asleep to. Wonderful.
We7 | Spotify | MySpace
http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/5169hcJPNML._SL160_AA115_.jpg Tift Merritt - See You on the Moon
The folk rock singer-songwriter's latest album was produced by Tucker Martine (The Decemberists, Spoon). (Spinner) Pleasant but unremarkable. Old-fashioned sounding, nice background music, won't offend, won't excite either.
We7 | Spotify | MySpace
http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41t2emFxp8L._SL160_AA115_.jpg Bettye LaVette - Interpretations: The British Rock Songbook
The talented singer brings soul to the classics with a covers album. (Spinner) Passionate, amazing voice. But I don't think this album is the best vehicle. Individually, the songs will sound good on radio and stand out just because of her voice, but not all the interpretations are successful and I've had enough by about half way through.
We7 | Spotify | MySpace
http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41661Q07uOL._SL160_AA115_.jpg Solvent - Subject to Shift
Electronic artist Jason Amm takes a darker approach to his synth-pop sound. (Spinner) Music for robots! Marvin would approve. Another Morr Music success.
We7 | Spotify | MySpace
https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/61m77B2VRFL._SL110_.jpg Jack Johnson - To The Sea
The breezy singer-songwriter recorded his fifth album in solor-powered studios. (Spinner) Not someone I normally listen to or like. This was a pleasant surprise. Nothing new here, but cheerful, happy and prettily done. There might even be some hummable summer classics here. An album for slow summer afternoons.
We7 | Spotify | MySpace
http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41gkXLVwVoL._SL160_AA115_.jpg Andy Bell - Non-Stop
Ex-Erasure singer's second solo album. Euro-synthpop. There's no Vince Clarke but don't worry, the fourteenth Erasure album by the duo is set to be released in the autumn. This is pure, wonderful pop with at times a slight dark edge. It was produced by Andy Bell and Pascal Gabriel. I loved "Debbie Harry Drag Queen" DHDQ and the last track with Perry Farrell (Jane's Addiction) Honey If You Love Him (That's All That Matters). My obsession of the week sorted, then.
We7 | Spotify | MySpace
http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51s7dBqVB6L._SL160_AA115_.jpg Active Child - Curtis Lane
Former choirboy Pat Grossi releases his debut EP of synth-tinged indie-pop. (Spinner) Avant-garde, experimental, harmony, melancholic, ethereal, hymntronica.
Guardian: introduction
Like Fleet Foxes but a little different. Luscious harp and gorgeous vocals which go towards choral at times. Would come to life with the right acoustics in a church. Then it surprises you and goes dark synthpop. Only six tracks and an intriguing listen.
We7 | Spotify | MySpace
https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/41fBvQzPi9L._SL110_.jpg Bibi Tanga & The Selenites - Dunya
The singer and bandleader mixes his African heritage with the sounds of his French upbringing. (Spinner)
BBC Review
WOMAD Review
We7 | Spotify | MySpace
http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51a1fmLBeCL._SL160_AA115_.jpg Villagers - Becoming A Jackal
Conor O’Brien’s debut album. He plays all the instruments except strings and french horn and co-produced it with Tommy McLaughlin. Very much an indie album with charming, boyish vocals referencing earlier artists ranging from Morrissey to Crowded House, and most closely Elliot Smith. Played this on repeat and even on the third listen, I didn't know it, there's much to listen to and appreciate. Gets slightly weaker towards the end, and occasionally the vocals go on a little too long. On the whole, a strong and wonderful first album. Loved it.
We7 | Spotify | MySpace
http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51jP4xCNeiL._SL160_AA115_.jpg The Divine Comedy - Bang Goes The Knighthood
They can do no wrong and that is all. A delight.
We7 | Spotify | MySpace
http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/61Pqjy1czcL._SL160_AA115_.jpg Sleepy Sun - Fever
Far out trippy hippy music.
(Not heard album yet, put this here as reminder.)
We7 | Spotify | MySpace
http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/61MjToeMcwL._SL160_AA115_.jpg Good Old War - Good Old War
More cheerful, upbeat, harmonic alt-folk, americana.
We7 | Spotify | MySpace
w/c Mon 7 June:
http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/61WgaLhoWSL._SL160_AA115_.jpg Wintersleep - New Inheritors
The Nova Scotian indie rockers return with their fourth studio album. (Spinner) Unassuming and humble, lovely music and well done. Nothing groundbreaking here, just a pleasant experience. Enjoyed this.
We7 | Spotify | MySpace
http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51Ri6UKA33L._SL160_AA115_.jpg Hooray For Earth - Momo
The NYC-based quartet mixes guitars and synths to create a rocking good time on its debut EP. (Spinner) 6-track EP. Like Beach Boys 2010. A mix of dancey electronica with harmony. Like a mix of Yeasayer and Fleet Foxes. Like this a lot.
We7 | Spotify | MySpace
http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/61ar2qvYOuL._SL160_AA115_.jpg Ariel Pink's Haunted Graffiti - Before Today
Underground favorite Pink releases his first album with the band he formed in 2008. (Spinner) This and Villagers (above) have been my albums of the week this week. Varied, wandering down avenues you wouldn't expect, ending distinctly Devo, this album sounds longer than it is. A mix of 80s pop and lo-fi recording. Lost count how many times I played it and each time, I heard more and loved it more.
We7 | Spotify | MySpace
http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41aV9hHz5iL._SL160_AA115_.jpg The Cure - Disintegration (Deluxe Edition)
The goth-New Wave band's best album gets reissued with plenty of bonus material. (Spinner) Pitchfork wrote a 10/10 review for this. And I couldn't say it better.
We7 | Spotify | MySpace
http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51g2Bh7Y9GL._SL160_AA115_.jpg Blitzen Trapper - Destroyer of the Void
The Portland, Ore.-based band gets even more experimental on its latest album. (Spinner) Most unusual. Classic rock'n'roll mixed with harmonic alt-folk. Feel like I'm yo-yoing to the 60s/70s and back.
The Line of Best Fit Review
We7 | Spotify | MySpace
http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41u25N8c9jL._SL160_AA115_.jpg Ratatat - LP4
The fourth album from the electronic duo is much more complex than its title implies. (Spinner) And complex it is. Mostly instrumental with some dialogue here and there. A year-end list contender.
We7 | Spotify | MySpace
http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51WSDs2F3CL._SL160_AA115_.jpg The Young Veins - Take A Vacation!
Two former members of Panic! at the Disco release their first album with their new band. (Spinner) Beatles / Beach Boys-esque. And very well done. Enjoyed this, though wasn't expecting to as I never liked Panic!.
We7 | Spotify | MySpace
http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/61iWuGUBDGL._SL160_AA115_.jpg Delta Spirit - History From Below
After receiving plenty of acclaim for their 2008 debut, 'Ode to Sunshine,' the rock-soul band releases its second LP. (Spinner) Americana, indie folk, rock. Like Fleet Foxes doing rock. A little bit of everything, but mostly wants sunshine. Produced by My Morning Jacket’s keyboardist, Bo Koster, and Eli Thomson.
We7 | Spotify | MySpace
http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41b%2BQBohu6L._SL160_AA115_.jpg The Dig - Electric Toys
Playing together since they were 12, the New York power-pop quintet releases its debut album. (Spinner) Opens gently and picks up swiftly in a very becoming way. The rest is like a badass The xx. Superb.
We7 | Spotify | MySpace
http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51GuzqRjZpL._SL160_AA115_.jpg BLK JKS - Zol!
South Africa's World Cup festivities get a rocking dub soundtrack from these local heroes. (Spinner) Avant-garde, experimental, noise rock. These guys have been around a while. Good to see them get some attention at last. The first track is a little scary but stick with it for easier, more pleasurable sounds to emerge. 5-track EP.
We7 | Spotify | MySpace
http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/518YdoclqQL._SL160_AA115_.jpg Casiokids - Topp Stemning På Lokal Bar
Straight outta Norway, the electropop ensemble releases its second album. (Spinner) Didn't like the first track, always worrying as track 1 is supposed to be the best. The second track, the instrumental Fot I Hose, is better. Probably would suit fans of Friendly Fires, it's that same wiggly music they do. Managed four tracks and moved on.
We7 | Spotify | MySpace
http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/411QGyPwa4L._SL160_AA115_.jpg Dutch - A Bright Cold Day
Jedi Mind Tricks' Stoupe teams with vocalist Liz Fullerton for this ethereal debut. (Spinner) It's a grey Sunday afternoon as I listen, and this is perfect. Swoony woozy as the sun tries to break through patches of blue. This is me. I'll have this on repeat. Liz Fullerton reminds me of Cat Power. Music is quite James Bond in places, like a grand trip-hop. Produced by Stoupe. Favourite track 2,000 Leagues Under My Keyboard
Reco of the Week - 2,000 Leagues Under My Keyboard
We7 | Spotify | MySpace
http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41TzvbI5bLL._SL160_AA115_.jpg Magic Bullets - Lying Around
After losing members to Girls, the San Francisco UK-influenced indie band returns with its second album. (Spinner) Johnny Marr guitars and distinctly Morrissey, San Francisco band does British indie. Can also hear Orange Juice and The Cure amongst others. Not brilliant but charming for sure.
We7 | Spotify | MySpace
http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51pKJ6LnsoL._SL160_AA115_.jpg Grace Potter & the Nocturnals - Grace Potter & the Nocturnals
The Vermont-based genre-blending band releases its third album. (Spinner) Oh wow. Love this. Blues rock, girl rock, rock rock rock. Fantastic. No surprise they covered White Rabbit for Tim Burton's Alice In Wonderland, there's definitely an air of Janis Joplin here. Old fashioned summer rock. My favourite.
We7 | Spotify | MySpace
http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41Z0v3fPtDL._SL160_AA115_.jpg Mike Oldfield - Ommadawn (Deluxe Edition)
Both Ommadawn and Hergest Ridge re-released with new 2010 mixes. The deluxe editions including bonus DVDs. Thought I didn't know Ommadawn, turns out I grew up with it, and I do.
We7 | Spotify | MySpace
w/c Mon 14 June:
http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51Y3Hit6f4L._SL160_AA115_.jpg The Golden Filter - Voluspa
The multinational NYC-based electronic duo hits the scene with this debut album. (Spinner) Gorgeous, almost eastern beginning. Dance, EBM, electronica, dreamy. Listened to this all week and didn't tire of it. Apart from the opening track, Dance Around The Fire, it's not very memorable. I just knew I wanted to put it on again.
We7 | Spotify | MySpace
http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/61nUO4LMpQL._SL160_AA115_.jpg Here We Go Magic - Pigeons
The Brooklyn natives release their second studio album, which features their breakout hit 'Collectors.' (Spinner) Moon is the one that stands out at first. Sprawling, hypnotic and beautiful. I could say the same for F.F.A.P.. Enjoying the old-fashioned 70s summer sound dovetailed with contemporary dream pop. Hard to pin down to any particularly genre, it's like a pretty basket of a little bit of everything.
BBC Review
We7 | Spotify | MySpace
http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/416CvKObUCL._SL160_AA115_.jpg We Are Scientists - Barbara
The indie dance-rock band bring the hooks on their fourth studio LP. (Spinner) No kidding - hooks galore. Catchy, addictive and moreish. Good indie.
We7 | Spotify | MySpace
http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51JAtKJnUxL._SL160_AA115_.jpg The Like - Release Me
Five years after their debut, the L.A. rockers release their second LP. (Spinner). Produced by Mark Ronson (check). Girl band (check). 60s, garage, pop (check). On trend and groovy.
We7 | Spotify | MySpace
http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/518cBrcKHBL._SL160_AA115_.jpg Pernice Brothers - Goodbye, Killer
The band reconvene with a new album after Joe Pernice finished writing his first novel. (Spinner) Lo-fi, a little bit country, a little bit rock, a little bit indie-folk. A gentle listen, found myself turning up the volume as it's a little bit quiet, too. Grown up pop of grown up themes of love and loss from a mature perspective. Catchy little hooks and melodies. Pleasant.
We7 | Spotify | MySpace
http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/511JiMXOlJL._SL160_AA115_.jpg Light Pollution - Apparitions
The Chicago quartet's debut LP mixes pop songwriting with experimental soundscapes. (Spinner) Shoegaze, chillwave, psychedelic, pop. Woozy, hazy, dreamy, slow. Both hi-fi and lo-fi in production. Wasn't sure until I got to the extremely slow Deyci, Right On, then it all clicked into place. Clever music, controlled. Lo-fi loose feeling is deceptive.
We7 | Spotify | MySpace
w/c Mon 21 June:
https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51DB5iYWj-L._SL110_.jpg Sarah Harmer - Oh Little Fire
The Canadian singer-songwriter's fifth LP features guest spots by Neko Case, Julie Fader and Metric's James Shaw. (Spinner) Neko Case is on Silverado. A mellow, light album. Americana, alt-country, alt-folk.
We7 | Spotify | MySpace
http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41bYQRRhoHL._SL160_AA115_.jpg Von Haze - Von Haze
The Brooklyn-based psychedelic guitar-synth duo releases its first EP. (Spinner) Remind me of The xx. Really like this. Shoegaze, electronic, deliciously depressing. Just what you want in a heatwave - music that doesn't encourage movement. Hot, sultry and sweltering sound.
We7 | Spotify | MySpace.
http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41TN8dTfP%2BL._SL160_AA115_.jpg The Chemical Brothers - Further
The seventh album from the electronic pair is meant to be both aurally and visually stimulating, with a DVD box set that is synced to the music. (Spinner) Love this. The boys are back.
We7 | Spotify | MySpace
http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41BGKzWRcPL._SL160_AA115_.jpg Robert Randolph & the Family Band - We Walk This Road
The pedal steel guitarist's latest album features an array of covers and was produced by T-Bone Burnett. (Spinner) Loved this. Blues, steel guitar, funky rock and gospel. Outstanding.
We7 | Spotify | MySpace
http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/511Wr8H1opL._SL160_AA115_.jpg Donavon Frankenreiter - Revisited
The surfer/musician re-invents his debut album with a Hawaiian twist. (Spinner) That about sums it up. He took his debut, Donavon Frankenreiter and re-did it, all Hawaiian-like. I like the music, not a fan of the vocals, too Jack Johnson for me. (NB: for the time being, both versions scrobble to the same track pages.)
We7 | Spotify | MySpace
http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/61cYcSjq1RL._SL160_AA115_.jpg The Constellations - Southern Gothic
The Atlanta-based psychedelic hip hop/soul-rock releases its first album. (Spinner) Brilliant album. Produced by Ben H. Allen (Animal Collective, Gnarls Barkley), and features guest appearances by Cee-Lo and Asher Roth. Exciting and energetic, it's hard to keep still while this is playing. It's rock but not as you know it. Features the tribute to Tom Waits, Step Right Up and the addictive Felicia. Every track is different. More, please.
We7 | Spotify | MySpace
http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/61GK3lsJRbL._SL160_AA115_.jpg Vince Neil - Tattoos and Tequila
The Mötley Crüe singer releases his first solo studio album since 1995's 'Carved in Stone.' (Spinner) Don't think you can press play and stop any time you want. Once you're in, you're in to the end. Fantastic album! Two original songs, Tattoos & Tequila and Another Bad Day, the rest are covers. Turn it up.
We7 | Spotify | MySpace
http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/61kMxva-PSL._SL160_AA115_.jpg Wu-Tang Clan - Wu Music Group presents Pollen: The Swarm, Pt. 3
RZA, GZA, Method Man and Ghostface appear alongside other long time Wu-Tang collaboraters on the latest installment of the group's Swarm series. (Spinner) One good album after another. I mean this week as well as from this band. A lot to take in on just one listen, this one wants your time. Reference to The Wire on Smooth Sailing. Beautifully polished production, gorgeous music and whilst the anger in the lyrics is still there, it doesn't overwhelm anything.
We7 | Spotify | MySpace
http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/518nfK%2BJu-L._SL160_AA115_.jpg Lissie - Catching A Tiger
Following her 5-track EP last year, Why You Runnin', Lissie returns with her debut album. Fleetwood Mac-tinged country pop fronted with the most confident, delicious, versatile voice. A career to watch.
We7 | Spotify | MySpace