Top 5 Albums:
- Fanfarlo Rooms Filled With Light
- First Aid Kit The Lion's Roar
- Heartless Bastards Arrow
- Memoryhouse The Slideshow Effect
- Sharon von Etten Tramp
Favourite EPs:
- Daughter The Wild Youth
- My Name is You EP
- NO Don't Worry You'll be Here Foreever
25 Albums
This album is all about the politically radical lyrics; the music is less original but has a wholesome charm, and is beautifully crafted with funky guitar rhythms. It is no less than her seventeenth album, but if you've yet to discover this it's a fine place to start, and is a welcome antidote to the current Lana Del Rey mania.
This Cleveland band's third album contains upbeat pop: definitely enjoyable and melodic. The instrumentation has been expanded from their earlier work and includes bells and strings; I could imagine they'd be a fun band to catch at a festival. Despite the wintery cover, these feel like summer tunes to make you smile.
If you like electronic music, there's really no reason not to download this free album, since it's relaxing, atmospheric and lush. It feels uplifting, and the soundscapes generated by this young 17 year old artist are fascinating. Beat Culture isn't on the level of M83, but it's astonishingly well crafted.
Caroline Polachek and Patrick Wimberly have clearly been seduced by an 80's synth sound, but there's a Feist-like darker undercurrent present too. Not all the songs are as strong as Frigid Spring or Turning, but I'm sufficiently intrigued to be seeing them live in April. This is pop is certainly more worthy of your attention than Lana Del Rey's and Polachek's vocals lift it beyond the routine.
This Seattle based musician makes extensive use of samples, and this album, produced by Richard Swift, is imaginatively produced. It has an understated feel, and is a slow burner; initially I was unsure about including it in my shortlist, but as you listen more closely, its subtleties reveal themselves. I like the layered effects with he creates with his voice, and the psychedelic reverb.
I had a preview of this album at a gig last year: on this first listen, I was unsure, but having had time to absorb the finished article at my leisure, I'm feeling more sympathetic. It's a departure from their folk influenced first album, Reservoir: less obviously catchy, but more imaginative, especially in its instrumentation and use of electronics.
I've come late to this rock album, as it was released last summer. It's full of energy, with catchy songs combining vintage and contemporary sounds. I can imagine that this Nashville band would be tremendous fun live, and their full length album flows well. Standout tracks include Rambo and Big Mama Gonna Whip Us Good. If you like The Strokes, you'll probably enjoy this, but I only give it a 6 because it doesn't really break any new ground, and the price of its coherence is a lack of variety of mood.
This may be my favourite album so far this year and is simply charming. The young Swedish sisters have been influenced more by country music than on their first album, but the gorgeous vocal harmonies still delight. A highlight is Emmylou, but many of the choruses are beautiful, and this is the sort of album to win over those not usually appreciative of folk. I've already bought a ticket to see them live for a second time.
Foxy Shazam always has a wild feel, in part due to Eric Nally's over the top vocals, and this fourth album won't win any awards for subtlety. It's raw and raucous, maybe bombastic, but if you're in the right mood and don't take it too seriously, it's fun. I Like It probably has the greatest appeal, whilst the catchy Holy Touch is guaranteed to irritate the evangelical Christians that it's sending up. Great guitar work too.
Gringo Star produce classic 60's rock from Atlanta, with a murky vintage sound produced by the Animal Collective's Ben Allen. This tribute to the British Invasion is catchy and energetic, with a warped psychedelic feel. It's their second full length album and even the iTunes download has a vinyl like warmth. Come Alive is a good place to start, as long as you're not allergic to throwbacks.
This is punchy rock, essential if you enjoy The Black Keys. Erika Wennerstrom's folksy voice contrasts with the hard hitting guitars, and it's draws you into its groove. Contrary to expectations relating to the band's name, I found it emotionally engaging and varied, and the bluesy, rootsy undertones are endearing on tracks like Skin and Bone. It also has punch though, as evidenced by Got to Have Rock and Roll.
This LA band create melodic, emotional rock, and have only just come to my attention through their second album, which is a comeback, 8 years after their first. It was produced in the Foo Fighter's studio, and Jealous Sound has opened for them, but has a less aggressive feel, closer to The National in mood than the Foos. Vocalist Blair Shehan is key to their appeal, along with strong guitar playing and a rich production. It's easily one of the strongest releases of 2012 so far, and you can listen to the title track here.
Joseph is one of my favourite live artists, and since he's generously released this double album for free download from his website, I'd urge you to support him by going to one of his shows. He's a poet and artist as well as a musician, and his politically aware lyrics take centre stage here. Joseph makes creative use of electronics, and loops, and has such a creative mind: songs like Humanity Fade are surprisingly avant garde. Some might see it as sprawling; not me though, I'm relishing getting to know its 24 tracks more intimately. The overriding impression is one of deep, compassionate humanity.
Some readers might think I’ve lost my mind by giving this space on my blog. Looked at objectively, it’s not amongst the best so far this year, but neither is it the unmitigated disaster suggested by Lizzie Grant’s recent Saturday Night Live fiasco. The new songs are not on the level of Video Games, and there are several fillers, but the title track, and National Anthem are striking. It would have been wiser to issue an EP at this stage though if commercial considerations hadn’t dictated otherwise. The production is lavish, and the vocals stronger than you may have feared, but even if you ignore the woeful lyrics, you’re left with the wish that all that attention had been focused on more a more fully developed artist.
This album has been compared to Cohen’s classic 1974 New Skin For the Old Ceremony and is said to rank favourably amongst his 11 previous albums from the past 45 years. Not having heard these yet, all I can say is that it conveys a glorious sense of emotional engagement, and Cohen’s gravelly voice is idiomatic: sometimes on the borderline between singing and story telling. He’s a poet, writing about the pains of love, and his music has a timeless quality.
This album is bleak, but don't let that put you off: I love its darkness and that gravelly voice. It manages to be hard hitting without neglecting melody. It's not a short album, and some might find it a little self indulgent, but the production adds interest, electronics adding to a complex texture. Despite the minor keys and downbeat mood, it's not a journey devoid of hope, and I admire Lanegan's confidence in pursing a distinctive path.
This imaginative, beautiful debut album is another example of my connection with Canadian music. It's extremely atmospheric and contains folk influences which render the 'dream pop' label a generalisation. The songs were inspired by photographs which can be found here, and there's a yearning quality in the music and a feeling of nostalgia. It's mellow, subtle, and Denise Nouvion's voice is honeyed. Immediately accessible, yet with impressionistic depth.
This electronic music is highly imaginative and creates an eerie atmosphere. It's been criticised for a move towards new wave in an attempt to court popularity. I'm more interested in the emotional impact of the music than labels, and the subtext here a relationship breakup. It may be a little inconsistent, but they take risks which pay off in tracks like the the closing Unplug Me with its robotic voice and slow pace, gradually fading away.
This music is undoubtedly beautiful, and totally undeserving of You Tube's censorship of its trailer for exploring gay themes. Michael Hadreas' second album is stripped back in tracks such as Normal Song and the closing Sister Song. It's touching, but it's premature to use the adjective genius: at times it's lacking in variety, and the thin on invention. Definitely worth a listen though.
I caught Italian Mauro Remiddi live recently, and his set was atmospheric but disconnected, the shoegaze influences failing to seize my attention. It’s carefully crafted, and contemplative, more the work of the studio than a live experience. Critical reception has generally been positive, and whilst he makes imaginative use of harmonies, I’ve yet to fall in love with it. There’s no question that I admire its dreaminess though.
Here, the legendary Mexican guitar duo is joined by the 13 piece band C.U.B.A, who add drama and colour, but at times obscure the solo virtuosity. It's certainly not a minimalist sound, but will get your foot tapping, with plenty of brass and amazing rhythms. The compositions themselves are reworkings of existing material, which means this album isn't utterly essential, but I've found it much fun.
Sharon's third album has been seen as representing a greater confidence, a chance for the Brooklyn songwriter to gain greater recognition. She's bolstered by eminent guests from the indie world such as Zach Condon of Beirut and Jenn Wasner of Wye Oak. It remains a highly personal work though, and there's still an understated, confessional air, so this is no sell out. Tramp can be quite bleak, almost vulnerable in moments such as the opening of All I can, but at times a more extrovert side emerges. Anyway, I can't sit on the fence any longer: its depth makes it stand out in this list.
This is simple guitar rock, and I'm undecided whether it's too populist and lacking intelligence. Reviews have ranged from NME's euphoria to Downed in Sound's lukewarm praise. I'm tending towards the latter, since it's scarcely original, but they are hotly tipped as one of 2012's British breakout bands, and I've enjoyed Baby enough to justify planning to see them live. I'm afraid you'll have to wait until after that I give my final verdict, but if you like Razorlight, this will definitely give pleasure.
The Canadian Abel Tesfaye is one of 2011 musical success stories: releasing three mix tapes in a year, he's poised for a Coachella appearance, despite having previously performed live only twice. I love his romantic R&B, overlooking some of the seedier lyrics to soak in the atmosphere. The final instalment of the trilogy doesn't match the excitement of the opening House of Balloons, but it would be ridiculous to overlook unless you insist on staying inside a narrow indie folk comfort zone. It's worth the free download for the astonishing Michael Jackson cover D.D. alone, and tracks such as the closing title track, a reverb. soaked ballad, is dripping in atmosphere. It's music of the night, drug soaked but strangely compelling.
This is the Texan Rockers's fourth album, with influences ranging from Latin American to psychedelia, but rooted somewhere in the early 1970's. There's great interplay between the guitarists, and some unexpectedly complex rhythms and more conventional, melodic vocals. White Denim isn't in the Radiohead category of genius or originality, but I do like their willingness to experiment.
15 EPs
Alabama Shakes is hotly tipped to go far this year, and nobody can dispute their authenticity. This quartet from Athens Alabama combine soul, gospel, rock and roll and southern blues timelessly. Their début album will be released in April, but in the mean time there's this short EP, and you can listen online to a Morning Becomes Eclectic session. From this evidence, the excitement they've created is entirely justified as they sound magical, and I will jump at my first chance to experience them live.
There's something of the spirit of Zola Jesus in the bass heavy synth undertones and ethereal female vocals, but others have compared this Toronto duo to Austra. It's hypnotic, moody, and atmospheric, and I'm not surprised to read that they record their music at night. My main regret is that there are only four tracks.
This young artist from Kentucky will surely go a long way. This EP contains quite a mix of styles as she experiments, with a bluesy overtone, but points to remarkable promise. Her first album, Before Lately, is more conventionally folk, and I can't wait to see how this more adventurous exploration takes her. Crucially, she has a strong and beautiful voice.
This is 21 year old Elena Tonra and her boyfriend Igor Haefeli's second EP in a year, and it's really haunting. Elana's voice is beautiful, and the instrumentation is subtle and delicate, the duo not afraid to use space and sparseness. You can stream the EP on Bandcamp: start with the first song Home. I'm eagerly awaiting their first full length album, due this year, and really must try to catch them live before they start playing large venues.
This five track EP from Toronto is a free download, and sounds danceable, with strong disco beats, with contemporary use of electronics. It's fun, upbeat music with catchy tunes; not likely to make you cry, but that's because it's point is to make you feel happy.
This breezy pop is currently available as a free download from Bandcamp. It's actually the Texas singer's second EP; fresh and youthful, yet with bite. There's an informative interview here. This isn't a masterpiece, and she's undoubtedly been helped considerably by St Vincent's producer John Congleton, but she's worth watching.
This soul singer is of Uganda heritage, and has created quite a buzz in the UK, being the BBC Sound of 2012 winner, aided by supporting Adele on her tour. He performs his bluesy soul acoustically, and sounds as if he's from a past era. I've selected this live EP in preference to the two studio EPs, because I'm assured he captivates audiences. His album's due in March, and I forecast huge sales, because Adele and The Civil Wars have shown that the public values authenticity.
I discovered this EP through a gushing review in the The Owl Mag and this male female duo is utterly charming. Their name is scarcely Google friendly, but don't let this put you off: the instrumentation is gorgeous, it's beautifully produced, and invokes a sense of joy, without being twee. You can sample some of their songs via videos on their blog; after this it should be a simple decision to buy it from iTunes.
This happily is another EP which you can stream for free and buy for a price of your choice. NO could be criticised for lack of originality, but I can easily forgive them for taking inspiration from The National's emotional rock. I especially enjoy their gift for melody.
This debut EP contains layered effects and a psychedelic feel, which leads to comparisons with Animal Collective. They’ve raised their profile by opening for of Montreal, although on this evidence they are more accessible and laid back. Painted Palms was formed by two cousins from Louisiana, although they play live as a five piece ensemble. This is well produced, and their pop is invigorating, if lacking the creativity and experimentalism of Panda Bear. Don’t be put off by Pitchfork’s review; you can reach your own opinion by streaming it from Bandcamp.
This charming EP was actually recorded in an old mental asylum, which confers a welcome reverberation to the sound. They have a gift for melody, and singer Victor Rasgaitis has a lovely voice, accompanied by mellow instrumentation including cello. They have a recent Daytrotter session, which is very much worth downloading, but I particularly appreciate the added orchestral backing on this EP with dark undercurrents.
This Israeli musician's EP is another free download. He says "Music saved my life. Whether if you're a musician or not, I guess that in some part it did the same for you."He makes extensive use of electronics, creating an imaginative soundscape with a laid back, spiritual vibe. Beautifully produced and original.
This is a short 3 track EP, but its companions Sea States and Wintersea States are also available for free download from Bandcamp. The sound is atmospheric, subtle and has a feeling of space. It's music to day dream to, and it's grown on me with repeated listening.
I saw the Staves live last year supporting The Civil Wars, and they were delightful: if you enjoy First Aid Kit’s ethereal vocal harmonies, you may want to investigate this EP. The three sisters from Watford make simple yet beautiful folk music which I find uplifting. Whilst the EP has only three tracks, you can get another two free from their website; I’m eagerly awaiting their first full length from the Communion label.
Wilco iTunes Session 2012 (Indie Rock) 7/10
This is supplement to the 2011 album The Whole Love, and doesn't depart radically from that record. Despite this, it's a joy, and the reworking of older songs such as War on War and Passenger Side are fascinating. There's also a great cover of Nick Lowe's Cruel to Be Kind and Jeff Tweedy seems relaxed in the 8 tracks recorded in his Chicago loft. If you're a fan, there's no reason to hesitate.
This is supplement to the 2011 album The Whole Love, and doesn't depart radically from that record. Despite this, it's a joy, and the reworking of older songs such as War on War and Passenger Side are fascinating. There's also a great cover of Nick Lowe's Cruel to Be Kind and Jeff Tweedy seems relaxed in the 8 tracks recorded in his Chicago loft. If you're a fan, there's no reason to hesitate.
Near Misses
These albums didn't quite make the cut, but are still enjoyable: White Lies Ritual, Hello Seahorse Lejos No Tan Lejos, Grace Potter and the Nocturnals, Beats Antique Elektrofone, Starfucker Reptilians, Guided by Voices Let's Go Eat The Factory, Givers in Light, Mi and L'au If Beauty is a Crime, Cat Power Jukebox, Sleeper Agent Celebrasion Sleeps, Howler America Give Up, The Active Set 11
Thanks Jeremy for the high compliments on the Sea States' EP. It made my day :)
ReplyDeleteYou're welcome, and I'm really pleased to hear it. I've been looking at your top albums of 2011, and it contains many of my favourites.
ReplyDelete