Top 5:
- Apparat The Devil's Walk
- Future Islands On The Water
- Ohbijou Metal Meets
- Puscifer Conditions of My Parole
- Zola Jesus Contatus
Apparat The Devil's Walk (Electronic) 9/10
This German electronic album from Sascha Ring is one of the strongest releases on this list, with a majestic spaciousness. If you like Sigur Ros, or enjoyed M83 from my last round-up, you must listen to Apparat. It's moving, beautiful and cinematic, electronic music with a sad, human heart. I've found it most effective late at night, or gazing out of the window on a rainy day. There are some similarities with Shoegaze, but tracks like Ash Black Veil have a strong rhythmic quality, and the surprisingly prominent vocals give an intensity to the experience.
Beach Fossils What A Pleasure (Indie Rock, Shoegaze) 5/10
This German electronic album from Sascha Ring is one of the strongest releases on this list, with a majestic spaciousness. If you like Sigur Ros, or enjoyed M83 from my last round-up, you must listen to Apparat. It's moving, beautiful and cinematic, electronic music with a sad, human heart. I've found it most effective late at night, or gazing out of the window on a rainy day. There are some similarities with Shoegaze, but tracks like Ash Black Veil have a strong rhythmic quality, and the surprisingly prominent vocals give an intensity to the experience.
With the growing ranks of bands with coastal related names, I fear the sea may becoming as overcrowded as deer are in indie music. This EP from Brooklyn has a feeling of nostalgia, and a love of reverb, and they make a pretty sound. Yet there's too much surface allure at the expense of depth for me, and there's a danger they will suffer the fate of background music. Whilst it's enjoyable, I think Best Coast have far more drive, and Beach House are more memorable shoe gazers, but for more a positive reaction, see The Owl Mag's review.
Bonnie Prince Billy Wolfroy Goes to Town (Folk, Country) 6/10
This is my first encounter with the prolific and much admired Will Oldham, and I was immediately struck by the stripped down, minimal feel. It has a quiet beauty, deeply steeped in blues and country, and is overwhelmingly mournful and melancholy. Angel Olson's vocal accompaniment is sensitive and tender, and there's an air of almost religious, reverential intensity. Is it too self indulgently spacious though? Some might think that not enough happens, but after several listens I've joined the ranks of Oldham's admirers, since he's just so musical.
This is my first encounter with the prolific and much admired Will Oldham, and I was immediately struck by the stripped down, minimal feel. It has a quiet beauty, deeply steeped in blues and country, and is overwhelmingly mournful and melancholy. Angel Olson's vocal accompaniment is sensitive and tender, and there's an air of almost religious, reverential intensity. Is it too self indulgently spacious though? Some might think that not enough happens, but after several listens I've joined the ranks of Oldham's admirers, since he's just so musical.
Christopher Dallman Light The Love EP (Singer Songwriter) 6.5/10
This is simple music, with a touch of sentimentality, but is sincere and heartfelt. The lyrics are thoughtful, and Dallman's voice is mellow and expressive. He's from Malwaukee, Wisconsin but now based in LA, and there's an informative interview here. Dallman has a gift for melody, and there's although this isn't the most challenging music, it's comforting, honest, and soothing.
City and Horses We Will Never be Discovered (Indie Pop) 7/10
This is a zany, fun record which is creative, catchy and yet somehow unexpected; the cover art is well chosen in this respect. Their ridiculously, gloriously preposterous video is well worth watching too. One of the defining characteristics is the rich array of instrumentation, including flute, saxophone, piano, violin and harmonica, and I can only imagine the fun vibe they must create live. This combination of offbeat charm and jangly pop deserves to have wide appeal.
Dead Man Winter Bright Lights (Country Rock, Americana) 7/10
Dead Man Winter is the side project of the bluegrass group Trampled by Turtles' lead Dave Simonett. Instead of their usual acoustic instruments, we can revel in some rock 'n roll electric guitar, drums and keyboard. The first track, Nicotine, is catchy, and whilst there's nothing revolutionary here, I loved its rootsy feel and memorable melodies. The addition of fiddle is a nod to The Turtles, although the frenetic banjo playing is missing, and it has a more laid back vibe. On first listen, I felt it wouldn't be memorable enough to make this list, but it's here because I've ended up listening and enjoying it far more frequently than I expected.
Dead Man Winter is the side project of the bluegrass group Trampled by Turtles' lead Dave Simonett. Instead of their usual acoustic instruments, we can revel in some rock 'n roll electric guitar, drums and keyboard. The first track, Nicotine, is catchy, and whilst there's nothing revolutionary here, I loved its rootsy feel and memorable melodies. The addition of fiddle is a nod to The Turtles, although the frenetic banjo playing is missing, and it has a more laid back vibe. On first listen, I felt it wouldn't be memorable enough to make this list, but it's here because I've ended up listening and enjoying it far more frequently than I expected.
The Deloreans American Craze (Indie Rock, Power Pop) 8/10
This is a crazy feel good record, which rather than taking you into the future is a retro trip back to the 1950's. It's drenched in reverb (perhaps too much for some tastes), and becomes a little too eclectic after two incredibly strong opening songs. You may well hate this album for being ridiculously over the top, but I found it refreshing. This Louisville group are not to be confused with other outfits with similar names, and hence are not easily Googled.
Dum Dum Girls Only in Dreams (Indie Pop) 6.5/10
This was uncannily reminiscent of Best Coast in places, with throwbacks to the 50's thrown into the mix. All four girls in this LA group sing, and I love the punk-like energy. It's upbeat despite lead singer Kristen Gundred mother's recent death and great fun. It can get a little relentless though, and it's not the most varied album, being effectively one tempo, but it's full of the joy of life and Californian sun.
This was uncannily reminiscent of Best Coast in places, with throwbacks to the 50's thrown into the mix. All four girls in this LA group sing, and I love the punk-like energy. It's upbeat despite lead singer Kristen Gundred mother's recent death and great fun. It can get a little relentless though, and it's not the most varied album, being effectively one tempo, but it's full of the joy of life and Californian sun.
Firehorse And So They Ran Faster (Indie Electronic) 8/10
It may seem eccentric to include this artist from Brooklyn on my shortlist in preference to Bjork's Biophilia, but I found this more comprehensible. It's been pointed out that she's influenced by Fiona Apple, which is a huge draw in my book. Leah Siegel's voice is seductive and it's one of those albums with depth, gradually seeping into your consciousness. Machette Grand Holiday is the most upbeat, catchy track, but the mood is often more moody and dreamy. This is yet another amazing project which we have Pledgemusic to thank for.
Future Islands On The Water (Synth Pop) 8/10
This album is dominated by lead Samuel Herring's distinctive, somewhat rough voice, and the maritime theme (it was recorded on North Carolina coast). I found it atmospheric, mesmerising, and beautiful, the lush synths contrasting with the vocals. Jenn Wassner from the wonderful Wye Oak sings on the third track, The Great Fire (she's a fellow Baltimore musician). I love this album for the sense of regret and longing, and whilst some criticise the lack of variety, I think this consistency of mood makes for a more coherent, unified vision.
Katie Herzig The Waking Sleep (Indie Pop) 5.5/10
It may seem eccentric to include this artist from Brooklyn on my shortlist in preference to Bjork's Biophilia, but I found this more comprehensible. It's been pointed out that she's influenced by Fiona Apple, which is a huge draw in my book. Leah Siegel's voice is seductive and it's one of those albums with depth, gradually seeping into your consciousness. Machette Grand Holiday is the most upbeat, catchy track, but the mood is often more moody and dreamy. This is yet another amazing project which we have Pledgemusic to thank for.
This album is dominated by lead Samuel Herring's distinctive, somewhat rough voice, and the maritime theme (it was recorded on North Carolina coast). I found it atmospheric, mesmerising, and beautiful, the lush synths contrasting with the vocals. Jenn Wassner from the wonderful Wye Oak sings on the third track, The Great Fire (she's a fellow Baltimore musician). I love this album for the sense of regret and longing, and whilst some criticise the lack of variety, I think this consistency of mood makes for a more coherent, unified vision.
This is a mainstream sounding fourth pop album from a Nashville based artist whose breakthrough was to be asked to write a song for the Sex and the City movie. It makes use of layered electronics as well as violin and cello, but I wondered if it's actually too polished and commercial. Her light soprano voice sings well crafted lyrics, but I sometimes wish for more grit. This is extremely well executed escapism, yet I paradoxically sometimes find that I'm more comforted and inspired by artists who conveys greater pain. There's a well written, more sympathetic review here and despite my reservations I still liked it a lot.
Lisa Hannigan Passenger (Indie Folk) 4/10
This Irish artist came to my attention due to her former professional and romantic collaboration with Damien Rice. There's just enough merit to make this list, but I'm still undecided as to whether it's natural and unforced or has too much of the routine about it. There's a samey quality to the rhythms, but her singing is charming. Hannigan's debut album Sea Sow is stronger, but his will still give pleasure. I just wish it was less studio bound, the chamber arrangements less slick, and above all that Damien Rice himself would release another album!
Little Red Midnight Remember (Indie Pop) 6/10
I'm late to this Australian band: this second album actually came out a year ago, but it sometimes sounds as if it was released in the sixties. It has a catchy, singalong good time vibe, with great harmonies. There are a multitude of influences, including dream pop, The Strokes and even The Beatles. I don't feel they're yet in the front rank, and there are a few mediocre tracks here, but it's feel good music, which would be fun in the afternoon of a summer festival.
Mother Mother Eureka (Indie Rock) 7/10
My love affair with Canadian music continues with this rock band. One review rated this as 'classic': I'd say solid, definitely worth investigating, but not quite a future Arcade Fire. They actually sound pretty mainstream, with little evidence of American roots on what is their third album. It has a generally positive feel and hooks designed to appeal to the mainstream. The electronics add interest to the sound, and the song writing is creative enough to lift this above the crowd, with the strong vocals.
Papa A Good Woman is Hard to Find (Soul, Rock) 8.5/10
This three piece has been formed by the drummer from Girls, Darren Weiss. It fuses elements of Motown soul and punk rock. This is an incredibly strong debut EP, amazingly coherent and fresh, with a great swing, a sunny confidence and a timeless feel. I can't wait for the LP.
I'm late to this Australian band: this second album actually came out a year ago, but it sometimes sounds as if it was released in the sixties. It has a catchy, singalong good time vibe, with great harmonies. There are a multitude of influences, including dream pop, The Strokes and even The Beatles. I don't feel they're yet in the front rank, and there are a few mediocre tracks here, but it's feel good music, which would be fun in the afternoon of a summer festival.
My love affair with Canadian music continues with this rock band. One review rated this as 'classic': I'd say solid, definitely worth investigating, but not quite a future Arcade Fire. They actually sound pretty mainstream, with little evidence of American roots on what is their third album. It has a generally positive feel and hooks designed to appeal to the mainstream. The electronics add interest to the sound, and the song writing is creative enough to lift this above the crowd, with the strong vocals.
This three piece has been formed by the drummer from Girls, Darren Weiss. It fuses elements of Motown soul and punk rock. This is an incredibly strong debut EP, amazingly coherent and fresh, with a great swing, a sunny confidence and a timeless feel. I can't wait for the LP.
Of Monsters and Men My Head is an Animal (Indie Folk) 8/10
This six piece from Iceland have created an absolutely gorgeous debut folk album which deserves attention from Mumford and Sons' fans. There are two lead vocalists and a rich array of instrumentation including acoustic and electric guitars, accordion, drums, piano, and horn. This isn't stripped down, but instead has a celebratory feel, particularly in the stand out track Little Talks. On occasion, the joyous mood and catchy choruses recalls Edward Sharpe, and the feel good factor is almost as high.
This six piece from Iceland have created an absolutely gorgeous debut folk album which deserves attention from Mumford and Sons' fans. There are two lead vocalists and a rich array of instrumentation including acoustic and electric guitars, accordion, drums, piano, and horn. This isn't stripped down, but instead has a celebratory feel, particularly in the stand out track Little Talks. On occasion, the joyous mood and catchy choruses recalls Edward Sharpe, and the feel good factor is almost as high.
Ohbijou Metal Meets (Indie Folk) 9/10
This is actually the Toronto group's third album, but they're new to me. It was written in a remote cabin by the sea and conjures up beautiful emotions: this really is a must listen. The big, symphonic sound is dominated by the delicate vocals of Casey Mecija, coupled with strings, synth and more conventional drums and guitar. It's quite dreamy, and achieves the magic of great music in carrying you along in its sweep and transporting you to a different place. Haunting, with depth, and not afraid to experiment with sound.
This is actually the Toronto group's third album, but they're new to me. It was written in a remote cabin by the sea and conjures up beautiful emotions: this really is a must listen. The big, symphonic sound is dominated by the delicate vocals of Casey Mecija, coupled with strings, synth and more conventional drums and guitar. It's quite dreamy, and achieves the magic of great music in carrying you along in its sweep and transporting you to a different place. Haunting, with depth, and not afraid to experiment with sound.
Puscifer Conditions of my Parole (Experimental Rock) 9/10
Puscifer is the side project of Maynard James Keenan of Tool, who like Trent Reznor is a true composer. It may surprise Tool fans in being softer, less challenging and less alienating than they expected, but it's still the product of a fertile imagination. There is far more music substance here than on many of the more mainstream pop albums on this list, and a refreshing lack of predictability in the development during songs. The change in mood after the gentle opening of Telling Ghosts is so satisfying. Many tracks lack heavy guitar riffs, and display a more human, tender ambiant mood. Keenan shows here that he's can be a master of melody and song writing. Don't be put off by bafflingly light hearted cover: this has depth.
Puscifer is the side project of Maynard James Keenan of Tool, who like Trent Reznor is a true composer. It may surprise Tool fans in being softer, less challenging and less alienating than they expected, but it's still the product of a fertile imagination. There is far more music substance here than on many of the more mainstream pop albums on this list, and a refreshing lack of predictability in the development during songs. The change in mood after the gentle opening of Telling Ghosts is so satisfying. Many tracks lack heavy guitar riffs, and display a more human, tender ambiant mood. Keenan shows here that he's can be a master of melody and song writing. Don't be put off by bafflingly light hearted cover: this has depth.
Rachael Yamagata Chesapeake (Singer Songwriter) 7.5/10
Another strong album fan funded on Pledgemusic, and innovatively the cover was created on an iPhone. Rachael's first solo release was Happenstance in 2004, and this won't disappoint new or existing fans. Her voice is sultry and the production by John Alagia compelling. This isn't pared down acoustic guitar and piano, but is often driven forward with drum beats and an array of instrumentation. I love the blues influence on tracks like Stick Around and the mellow, laid back vibe.
Another strong album fan funded on Pledgemusic, and innovatively the cover was created on an iPhone. Rachael's first solo release was Happenstance in 2004, and this won't disappoint new or existing fans. Her voice is sultry and the production by John Alagia compelling. This isn't pared down acoustic guitar and piano, but is often driven forward with drum beats and an array of instrumentation. I love the blues influence on tracks like Stick Around and the mellow, laid back vibe.
Ryan Adams Ashes and Fire (Indie Folk) 7.5/10
Ashes and Fire contains superbly crafted song writing, and is mellow, pared back, and exceptionally beautiful. I haven't yet had time to explore all 12 albums of Adams' back catalogue yet, but this is seen by many commentators as a return to the form of the classic 2000 Heartbreaker. Perhaps it doesn't bring much new to his style, and it's low key, but I'm happy to enjoy it on its own gentle, reflective terms.
Ashes and Fire contains superbly crafted song writing, and is mellow, pared back, and exceptionally beautiful. I haven't yet had time to explore all 12 albums of Adams' back catalogue yet, but this is seen by many commentators as a return to the form of the classic 2000 Heartbreaker. Perhaps it doesn't bring much new to his style, and it's low key, but I'm happy to enjoy it on its own gentle, reflective terms.
Sara Lowes Back to Creation (Indie Folk) 7.5/10
Like me, Sara Lowes has a classical background, and is from my local area of Manchester. This second album, self released is compelling. It's a mixture of folk, pop and soul influences, with a retro, 1960's feel. Her voice is characterful, and whilst the mood is relatively understated, the sound itself is lovely, with great use of piano and subtle electronics. It lack compositional genius and sufficient variety of mood, but its beautiful execution lifts it well above mediocracy.
Like me, Sara Lowes has a classical background, and is from my local area of Manchester. This second album, self released is compelling. It's a mixture of folk, pop and soul influences, with a retro, 1960's feel. Her voice is characterful, and whilst the mood is relatively understated, the sound itself is lovely, with great use of piano and subtle electronics. It lack compositional genius and sufficient variety of mood, but its beautiful execution lifts it well above mediocracy.
Twin Sister In Heaven (Indie Pop) 7/10
This New York quintet's first full length album is diverse in style, dreamy, and clever. There's a somewhat alienated, disconnected quality to this dream pop, created by lead Andrea Estella's surreal voice and the offbeat rhythms. It's eclectic, surreal, and fascinating to listen to. I love the subtlety, and its unhurried feeling. In Heaven definitely rewards repeated listening.
This New York quintet's first full length album is diverse in style, dreamy, and clever. There's a somewhat alienated, disconnected quality to this dream pop, created by lead Andrea Estella's surreal voice and the offbeat rhythms. It's eclectic, surreal, and fascinating to listen to. I love the subtlety, and its unhurried feeling. In Heaven definitely rewards repeated listening.
Veronica Falls (Indie Pop) 7/10
There's no doubt I enjoyed this London quartet's debut, and was unworried by assertions in some quarters that it's stereotypical indie pop. Some of themes are dark, even ghostly, but the sound is tight and it isn't depressing. They may sound vaguely familiar, and it might be a one tempo record; but you are drawn in for an enjoyable ride with those jangly guitars and vocal harmonies.
There's no doubt I enjoyed this London quartet's debut, and was unworried by assertions in some quarters that it's stereotypical indie pop. Some of themes are dark, even ghostly, but the sound is tight and it isn't depressing. They may sound vaguely familiar, and it might be a one tempo record; but you are drawn in for an enjoyable ride with those jangly guitars and vocal harmonies.
Youth Lagoon Year of Hibernation (Electronic, Dream Pop) 7/10
This is the fruit of 22 year old Trevor Powers from Idaho, his new solo project featuring falsetto vocals and electronic backing. It's certainly beautiful, serene but with an underlying sense of regret and sadness. It uses temporal space effectively, its 8 tracks usually building up gradually. Powers manages to be both dreamy and anxious; chillwave with a dark undercurrent. It doesn't completely cast aside concerns about electronic music's clinical side, but it's a fascinating vision.
This is the fruit of 22 year old Trevor Powers from Idaho, his new solo project featuring falsetto vocals and electronic backing. It's certainly beautiful, serene but with an underlying sense of regret and sadness. It uses temporal space effectively, its 8 tracks usually building up gradually. Powers manages to be both dreamy and anxious; chillwave with a dark undercurrent. It doesn't completely cast aside concerns about electronic music's clinical side, but it's a fascinating vision.
Zola Jesus Contatus (Synth Pop) 8.5/10
There's a bleakness about Nika Roza Danilova's singing which is initially disarming. She was operatically trained, and an admirer of industrial music (a combination that actually doesn't surprise me at all) and this project is fascinating and rewarding. She combines electronics with strong beats and ethereal singing in a bold, masterly manner; experimental yet focused. It's icy, and dark, but found it inspiring and if it divides opinion, it's because its so original.
Albums I liked but didn't make my final short list include the following: Weekend Red, VHS or Beta Diamonds or Death, Alessi's Ark Time Travel, Sophie Hunger Monday's Ghost, Lonely Dear Hall Music, High Places Original Colours, James Blake Enough Thunder, Mayer Hawthorne How Do You Do, Scott Matthews What The Night Delivers, Big Troubles Romantic Comedy, Big Harp White Hat, Bjork Biophilia, Radiohead TKOL RMX 1-7, Eleanor Freidberger Last Summer, Marissa Nadler
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