Monday, April 2, 2012

Top 35 Albums and EPs April 2012

Here's a pre-Coachella round-up of my favourite 35 discoveries of the past month. You'll also find quite a few recent releases releases in my March article here.


Top 5
  • Alcoholic Faith Mission Ask Me This
  • Civil Twilight Holy Weather
  • Deep Sea Diver History Speaks
  • Lost in the Trees A Church that Fits Our Needs
  • Trampled by Turtles Stars and Satellites


23 Albums

Alcoholic Faith Mission Ask Me This (Indie Folk) 9/10
I love the story that this group's name was a mis-reading of a sign for the religious Apostolic Faith Mission, the mistake presumably occurring though a lack of sobriety. It starts with glorious close harmony part singing, and takes you on a voyage of discovery.  It may have folk roots, but they are not afraid to use synths alongside acoustic strings (most notably in Alaska). I find it beautiful and so, so imaginative: they're not afraid to take risks and the vocals are outstandingly well deployed.

Alex Winston King Kong (Indie Pop) 7/10
This is catchy confident pop: my attention immediately focused on Alex's distinctive voice. She's a classically trained multi instrumentalist, yet these songs are often simply and catchy. It's their delivery which is distinctive, with quirky instrumentation and nicely constructed choruses; it's all very slickly executed. She's been called an American Florence: I don't rate her quite as highly on this evidence. It can be sugary and pall on repeated listening, with too many high energy songs, but it's still fun.

Amadou & Mariam Folila (African Pop) 5/10
I was hoping that Amadou and Mariam would develop the infectious experimentalism we saw in Ce N'Est Pas Bon, the second track from their last album Welcome to Mali. Instead, they've played it safe, watering down their African heritage in collaborations with Western musicians such as Santigold. In fact it's a fusion of two recording sessions, one in New York and the other in Bamako with African percussion. It's still enjoyable, but I'm not sure if it's the record they would have made without the pressure of a major label.

Bronze Radio Return Shake!Shake!Shake! (Indie Rock) 7/10
I'm late to discover this 2011 album, yet I make no apology for including it now, as it's such a pleasure. Bronze Radio Return produce roots rock from Connecticut, with a hooky commercial appeal, made for playing on a sunny day in the car. They have a great sense of melody, and energy and can sing. It's not in the slightest bit avant garde or experimental, so music snobs will hate it, yet it's pure joy.

Buxton Nothing Here Seems Strange (Indie Folk) 6/10
This album features banjos, and is steeped in Americana, but its modern influences ensure it's definitely not straight bluegrass. This is actually the five piece from Houston's third album, and they've been compared to Wilco locally. It's a crowded field, and it's difficult to call out what's truly distinctive about the style's fusion of folk and rock. It's an enjoyable ride, and I'm sure their show would make for a delightful evening but I don't consider it to be essential listening.

Civil Twilight Holy Weather (Indie Rock) 8/10
This is one of many fantastic discoveries via The Owl Mag; it's ambitious, imaginative rock from the Cape Town trio. The word U2 has been mentioned: that's an optimistic comparison, but they're not afraid to experiment with rhythms and layers of sound in a way which suggests they've been listening to King of Limbs carefully. It can be dreamy and moody, sometimes a little pompous, but this captures the attention.

Crushed Stars In The Bright Rain (Indie Pop) 7/10
In the Bright Rain is close to chillwave: Todd Gautreau's vocals are soaked in reverb. Yet, there are guitars and drums in place of synthesisers here, alongside a predominantly sad, down beat feel. I love the calming influence of this dream pop, with its relaxed tempos and introspection. An abum to appreciate for its quiet beauty.

Deep Sea Diver History Speaks (Indie Rock) 9/10
The Shins' latest album has disappointed me, hence its exclusion from this list, yet the side project of their guitarist Jessica Dobson is far more interesting. The album is dominated by her vocals, and has punch, and her husband's drumming is tight. The melodies are intricate, and I love hearing the frisson between the four band members. If you enjoy the Shins, you really should go to Bandcamp and stream or download this, as it's really engaged me emotionally.

Dry The River Shallow Bed (Indie Folk) 8/10
This London band was nominated in the BBC's Sound of 2012 poll: their first album lives up to the hype. Peter Liddle's falsetto voice might annoy some, and some simply resent anyone who's jumped on Mumford's indie folk bandwagon. Reviews have used adjectives such as 'pastoral' but I find a surprising amount of energy here, and they can whip up quite a climax. I love the instrumentation including violin, horn, brass and percussion (definitely no electronics here). They've created a sound of their own, and if I don't catch them live during this summer's festival season, I'll be disappointed.

Electric Touch Never Look Back (Indie Rock) 7/10
This Austin rock band (with a British member) is influenced by The Killers and has a punk edge. This confident second album was well received at SXSW this year. Their UK member said: "We're not in this to make money. We would've become plastic surgeons or attorney. We want to spread the joy, make people happy." This is catchy, feel good music, which doesn't take itself too seriously and has tight, raw energy. I don't find it especially intellectually stimulating, but that's not its point.

Gabriel and the Hounds Kiss Full of Teeth (Indie Folk) 8/10
This debut from Brooklyn has been described as folksy chamber art pop, which reveals itself slowly. I actually found it far from pretentious, lifted by the acoustic instrumentation including cello, horn, flute and guitar. The feel is often melancholy, and the inclusion of ambiant sounds brings a dreaminess. Drums are by none other than Bryan Devondorf from The National. Atmospheric and beautiful, with originality.

Good Old War Come Back As Rain (Indie Folk) 7.5/10
This is a difficult album to assess, since it can provide great comfort and reassurance on an emotional level, yet assessed objectively it's not particularly original or sophisticated. A similar observation could be made about Mumford and Sons, and Good Old War share their indie folk aesthetic, with lovely harmonies, jangly guitar and sing along melodies. Not one for music nerds, but I've enjoyed it.

Great Lake Swimmers New Wild Everywhere (Indie Folk) 7/10
The opening track, Palmistry, on Great Lake Swimmers' last album, instantly transports me to a place of nature and contented tranquillity. I haven't found anything as distinctive on this follow up, and I was initially disappointed; yet it's wearing better than I expected. The key to this music is its very simplicity, and like Fleet Foxes, its melodic nature has a calming effect. The fiddle playing is welcome too, and other acoustic instruments including banjo and upright bass put in an appearance.

Honeyhoney Billy Jack (Indie Folk) 7/10
This LA duo is laid back, rootsy and bluesy. There's a boy / girl interaction, and like The Civil Wars they're not a couple. The sound is if anything more swampy, the tempos often slow, and there is a bluegrass influence not far from the surface, alongside classic country. I discovered this as part of my pre-Coachella listening, and whilst the music is a blend of styles, it coheres. I'm sure their chemistry is delightful to observe live.

Kishi Bashi 151a (Indie Pop) 8/10
The American behind this debut record has worked with of Montreal and Regina Spektor, and fronts a synth rock group called Jupiter One. It's refreshingly different, with violin and his sensitive voice to the fore, along with instrumental backdrops. He's a multi instrumentalist who evidently has a gift for creating uplifting, soaring melodies. It mixes the soaring lines of Jonsi with Animal Collective like experimentalism. Yeasayer is another influence, but this really is something new, and I urge to investigate, especially as it can be streamed in its entririty from Bandcamp.

Lost in the Trees A Church that Fits Our Needs (Indie Folk) 10/10
This is definitely one of my discoveries of the year: there's no questioning its sincerity, as its a memorial to Ari Picker's mother, who committed suicide.  She's featured on the album cover and Picker's sentiments “I feel like if God had some sort of way of speaking, it would be through music” are given expression. I found out when researching this blog that he's a classically trained composer, which may explain why it speaks to me so powerfully. He also has a beautiful tenor voice, and an active imagination. Clearly it's an emotional journey, yet the overal impression is one of hope, and peace, not despair.

Magnetic North Orkney Symphony (Indie Folk) 8/10
Erland Cooper's new Scottish project is not to be confused with Canadian group of same name. Their album has strong connections with classical as well as folk music, and the overall mood is serene with a filmic soundtrack. The group travelled to the islands to record this poetic album, based on a dream and its steeped in celtic atmosphere. It's melodic, easy going listening, and at times I wish it had been grittier, and less polite, but there's no denying the beauty and character.

Michael Kiwanuka Home Again (Soul) 8/10
Tickets to Michael Kiwanuka gigs are hot property in the UK, thanks to that lush soul voice. His much anticipated debut sounds timeless, with jazz drums, flute and strings. It's a blend of soul, folk and jazz, rooted in the early 1970's and doesn't push any boundaries. This album has a warm, reassuring feel, yet I'm going to wait until I see him live in May to give a definitive verdict whether he's magical or simply retro.

Paperoute Absence (Indie Pop) 7.5/10
I'm late to this 2009 album from Nashville, yet I'm delighted I've finally been enlightened. The four piece band make heavy use of electronics and owe some debt to the 1980's and projects such as Air and M83. They sound really passionate and emotional. The best news is that a new release, The Peace of Wild Things, is imminent, and I hope it manages to maintain the quality of the opening tracks on this one.

Tanlines Mixed Emotions (Electronic Pop) 7/10
I was disappointed this Brooklyn duo's show in Manchester last week was postponed, since this debut album is hooky and intriguing. Comparisons have been made with Gotye, yet its less euphoric, never soaring that extent; I guess the title suggests an ambiguity of feeling. It hasn't really moved me as yet, but I'm hoping it will get under my skin when I eventually do see them live. There's no escaping the promise here, and I think that sense of restraint is actually intentional.

Trampled by Turtles Stars and Satellites (Bluegrass) 9/10
This bluegrass group are known for their high octane energy, yet their new album is incredibly tender and heartfelt. I rate this acoustic album so highly because of that intangible quality: its feel. Like The Lumineers' recent self titled LP, it's heartwarming, and has a natural inevitability. Needless to say, the fiddle, banjo and bass playing is virtuoso, and the vocal harmonies lovely. The generally less frenetic feel means that when a song such as Alone does eventually reach a thunderous climax, the effect is all the stronger. I love this!

Wild Child Pillow Talk (Indie Folk) 7/10
Wild Child make charming folk music, which brings to mind The Head and The Heart. Originally a duo, they now have a full band, and have put down a lengthy 15 tracks. It's emotionally direct, and often touching; the sound is quite innocent with bells and hand claps. Many will be temped to sing along!

Vetiver The Errant Charm (Indie Folk) 7/10
This is easy going, charming music, the fifth album from the San Francisco indie folk pop group. It could be seen as too tasteful and middle of the road, extremes of emotions being kept in check. Yet sometimes you want to be comforted, and you can't deny the warmth here. It's all beautifully played and Andy Cabic's vocals are mellow. Worth investigation if you like M. Ward and Californian sunshine. 

12 EPs


Ben Browning Lover Motion (Indie Pop) 7/10
My advice here is straightforward: if you enjoy Cut Copy, buy this EP. It's their basist's solo project, and you still get Dan Whitford on synth. They produce sunny dance music, guaranteed to give joy, and I can't understand why Pitchfork is so begrudging about it.

The Chevin Champion (Indie Pop) 9/10
This is an auspicious debut for this English band from a small town in Yorkshire: it's epic music from a band who have already played Wembley supporting White Lies. They have Coldplay like mainstream appeal, with a gift of melody and an ability to directly target the heart. I don't like the remix padding out the sixth track, but that's a churlish complaint.

Daniel Rossen Silent Hour, Golden Mile (Indie Pop) 8/10
Rossen is Grizzly Bear's singer and his first solo EP has a stripped down, sparse feel across its five songs. It's carefully crafted from material originally intended for the next Grizzly Bear full length, and it bodes extremely well for it. The sound is dominated by plucked acoustic guitar, crashing drums and the falsetto vocals. This is not really much of a departure for Rosen, but the classy pedigree is evident.

Dot Hacker EP (Experimental Rock) 8/10
This is a taster in advance of the LA band's full length album. It's thoughtful and imaginative, almost hypnotic in effect. Josh Klinghoffer's fantastic vocals are quite feminine and the instrumentation is layered and complex. The band is made up of experienced musicians with impressive credentials and I predict we're in for a real treat come the May release. 

Electric Guest EP (Indie Pop) 8/10
I love this all too short four track EP from this LA electronic duo. This Head I Hold has a summery, upbeat feel but I prefer Troubleman, which could almost be a Broken Bells track (they share Danger Mouse producer Brian Burton). I find it uplifting and invigorating and can't wait for the album Mondo due next month.

Haim Forever (Folk R&B) 9/10
These three young sisters (supported by a male drummer) have created an unusual folk R&B hybrid which really works. I love the opening vocal harmonies, and the all too few three tracks really pack a punch and the production is fantastic. Happily, it's available as a free download, so you can make your own mind up about Haim.

Harriet Tell The Right Story (Indie Rock) 8/10
This EP comes from Alex Casnoff, pianist for PAPA and Dawes, and is another free download. His baritone voice is emotional and these songs are melancholy and affecting. It's not lacking in commitment and is also catchy: recommended.

Julia Stone Let's Forget All the Things We Say (Indie Pop) 7/10
Many will miss Julia's Brother Angus, but this EP is a preview of a new full length solo album, By the Horns. It has a largely quiet, subdued atmosphere, and I found it a little too polite at times, yet still lovely. Well worth listening to if you're a fan of Angus and Julia Stone.

Ko Ko Float (Indie Pop) 9/10
This EP is currently difficult to download, but I'd urge you to steam it here. It's the work of two brothers from LA, stylistically similar to Youth Lagoon. It's bright and breezy, optimistic and catchy, brilliantly produced and instantly appealing. I predict and hope that we're going to be hearing much more about Ko Ko soon.

Poor Moon Illusion (Indie Folk) 5/10
I was excited to download this EP, given that its a project from a member of Fleet Foxes, and has received positive reviews in two online publications I respect. Yet, for me, blandness pervades, a niceness consumed in copious reverb, and a simplicity which seems lazy. It's a brief affair, only five short tracks, and Fleet Foxes devotees should listen to it for research purposes at least.

Teen Daze A Silent Planet (Electronic) 6/10
This is a serene, minimalist electronic experience, inspired by CS Lewis' novel Out of a Silent Planet. It's a calming, meditative ride with layered vocals, guitar chords and synth soundscapes. Some might feel there's simply not enough going on, but I enjoyed its beauty and other-worldliness. You can stream or buy it from Bandcamp.

Trupence Voyages (Electronic) 9/10
Here's another serene EP, this time from a 21 year old from Melbourne. It's experimental chillwave, with use of samples, and you can name your price on Bandcamp. I found it quite haunting, some elements reminiscent of M83, and most sensitively created. Dreamlike over an expansive 9 tracks.


Honourable Mentions
  • Anya Maria Felony Flats
  • Carolina Chocolate Drops Leaving Eden
  • Dirt Drifters This is in my Blood
  • Garrison Starr Relive
  • Gemma Ray It's a Shame About Gemma Ray
  • The Infamous Stringdusters Silver Sky
  • Margot & The Nuclear So So's Rot Gut, Domestic
  • Play Rewind Eject Never Before but Maybe Again
  • Sugar and the High-Lows
  • White Rabbits Milk Famous
  • Yukon Blonde Tiger Talk
  • Xiu Xiu Always

1 comment:

  1. really great article with loads of excellent music

    Civil Twilight brought me here on a search and I've spent an hour checking out the music above.

    Much appreciated - thanks!

    ReplyDelete