Top 5
- Beach House Bloom
- Carina Round Tigermending
- Electric Guest Mondo
- Mount Eerie Clear Moon
- Sigur Ros Valtari
Also Commendable
- Allo Darlin' Europe
- Cameras In Your Room
- Here We Go Magic A Different Ship
- Jack White Blunderbuss
- Magic Wands Aloha Moon
30 Albums
Allo Darlin' Europe (Indie Pop) 8/10
This album has a warm feeling, despite its lyrics being less upbeat than the London group's first record (reflecting the continent's economic turmoil). There's a lovely feel good sense, with sing-along melodies. The over-riding optimism can in part be attributed to the Australian lead singer Elizabeth Morris, and it has a similarly positive emotional impact on me as folk music does.
Ane Brun It All Starts With You (Singer Songwriter) 7/10
This Norwegian singer has a haunting voice, and these sparse arrangements are beautifully subtle. Two fortuitous collaborations see First Aid Kit and Jose Gonzalez joining on Do You Remember and Worship. The tempos tend to be slow, making this is an album to relax to. It has strong folk influences, along with some blues. The low key mood might not excite all, but I could listen to that crystalline voice all day.
Barcelona Not Quite Yours (Indie Rock) 7/10
After a five year wait, this follow up to Absolutes was fan funded on Kick Starter. The melodic rock from Seattle is pitched to appeal widely rather than challenge the listener. There's no doubt that I've been enjoying it, but as yet it hasn't supplanted their debut in my affections. Not Quite Yours doesn't have quite the same emotional impact, or develop their art significantly, despite its accessibility.
This album has a warm feeling, despite its lyrics being less upbeat than the London group's first record (reflecting the continent's economic turmoil). There's a lovely feel good sense, with sing-along melodies. The over-riding optimism can in part be attributed to the Australian lead singer Elizabeth Morris, and it has a similarly positive emotional impact on me as folk music does.
This Norwegian singer has a haunting voice, and these sparse arrangements are beautifully subtle. Two fortuitous collaborations see First Aid Kit and Jose Gonzalez joining on Do You Remember and Worship. The tempos tend to be slow, making this is an album to relax to. It has strong folk influences, along with some blues. The low key mood might not excite all, but I could listen to that crystalline voice all day.
After a five year wait, this follow up to Absolutes was fan funded on Kick Starter. The melodic rock from Seattle is pitched to appeal widely rather than challenge the listener. There's no doubt that I've been enjoying it, but as yet it hasn't supplanted their debut in my affections. Not Quite Yours doesn't have quite the same emotional impact, or develop their art significantly, despite its accessibility.
Beach House Bloom (Dream Pop) 9/10
This follow up to the gorgeous Teen Dream doesn't disappoint, even if the Baltimore duo has only incrementally refined and clarified their sound. It's beautifully structured, so it works as a whole not just as a series of individual songs; and has a hypnotic effect which I haven't tired of after multiple listens. The sound is hazy of course, and it sounds so perfect that I wonder if they'll have to follow this up with change of direction, as it's difficult to imagine how they can develop this avenue further.
This follow up to the gorgeous Teen Dream doesn't disappoint, even if the Baltimore duo has only incrementally refined and clarified their sound. It's beautifully structured, so it works as a whole not just as a series of individual songs; and has a hypnotic effect which I haven't tired of after multiple listens. The sound is hazy of course, and it sounds so perfect that I wonder if they'll have to follow this up with change of direction, as it's difficult to imagine how they can develop this avenue further.
Best Coast The Only Place (Indie Pop) 4/10
I'm afraid the first word which comes to mind when listening to this album is facile. More generously, you could call it direct and sunny, but the lyrics are embarrassingly simple. Producer Jon Brion is of course renowned for his work with Fiona Apple amongst others, but his desire to polish Best Coast's lo-fi fuzz only exposes its banality. I'd already bought a ticket to see them live next month before hearing the album, and I can only hope that it'll be more successful outside the studio. I usually refrain from mentioning albums I dislike, but this is from an established artist I admire, so I feel it's not simply a case of my taste being incompatible).
I'm afraid the first word which comes to mind when listening to this album is facile. More generously, you could call it direct and sunny, but the lyrics are embarrassingly simple. Producer Jon Brion is of course renowned for his work with Fiona Apple amongst others, but his desire to polish Best Coast's lo-fi fuzz only exposes its banality. I'd already bought a ticket to see them live next month before hearing the album, and I can only hope that it'll be more successful outside the studio. I usually refrain from mentioning albums I dislike, but this is from an established artist I admire, so I feel it's not simply a case of my taste being incompatible).
Cameras In Your Room (Indie Rock) 8/10
This Australian band's debut album deserves to give them greater prominence outside their home country. Their sound is emotionally powerful and ambitious in its scope, with layered instrumentation. An obvious place to start if the stirring June, where keyboardist Eleanor Dunlop's voice is moody, and contrasts with the harder edged tracks led by guitar player Fraser Harvey.
This Australian band's debut album deserves to give them greater prominence outside their home country. Their sound is emotionally powerful and ambitious in its scope, with layered instrumentation. An obvious place to start if the stirring June, where keyboardist Eleanor Dunlop's voice is moody, and contrasts with the harder edged tracks led by guitar player Fraser Harvey.
Carina Round Tigermending (Indie Rock) 9.5/10
This album from a British member of Maynard James Keenan's Puscifer has real depth and passion. She's sombre and powerful, conjuring up real drama, and the intricacy rewards repeated listening. That voice is outstanding, and speaks directly to your emotions. It's not always a comfortable experience, but its drama makes it decisively one of the albums of the year.
This album from a British member of Maynard James Keenan's Puscifer has real depth and passion. She's sombre and powerful, conjuring up real drama, and the intricacy rewards repeated listening. That voice is outstanding, and speaks directly to your emotions. It's not always a comfortable experience, but its drama makes it decisively one of the albums of the year.
Clock Opera Ways to Forget (Indie Pop) 6/10
Multi instrumentalist Guy Connelly was subjected to a particularly vicious review from NME, and whilst I do find this album a little soulless at times, it doesn't deserve 2/10. The layers are carefully thought out creating interesting electronic textures, and it's not without hooks. It's album of details, such as the intricate drumming, and Philip Glass style arpeggios. The repetition and gradual building of songs doesn't quite make for a sufficiently memorable whole, however.
Multi instrumentalist Guy Connelly was subjected to a particularly vicious review from NME, and whilst I do find this album a little soulless at times, it doesn't deserve 2/10. The layers are carefully thought out creating interesting electronic textures, and it's not without hooks. It's album of details, such as the intricate drumming, and Philip Glass style arpeggios. The repetition and gradual building of songs doesn't quite make for a sufficiently memorable whole, however.
Electric Guest Mondo (Indie Pop) 9/10
Broken Bells is one of my favourite albums, and this has some of the same Danger Mouse (Brian Burton) magic. It's been criticised for its backward looking, 70's soul sound, but I love the uplifting, breezy Californian pop. Asa Taccone's falsetto voice has a jazzy feel, and I find it infectiously catchy. The highlight for me is the extended Troubleman, and in fact the second half in general works better than the first. I don't care that professional critics have generally dismissed this album, as it makes me happy.
Broken Bells is one of my favourite albums, and this has some of the same Danger Mouse (Brian Burton) magic. It's been criticised for its backward looking, 70's soul sound, but I love the uplifting, breezy Californian pop. Asa Taccone's falsetto voice has a jazzy feel, and I find it infectiously catchy. The highlight for me is the extended Troubleman, and in fact the second half in general works better than the first. I don't care that professional critics have generally dismissed this album, as it makes me happy.
Gemma Ray Island Fire (Indie Pop) 7/10
The appeal of Island Fire to me is partly in its 60's feel, and this Brit has a real sense of fun. Much of the album was recorded in Sydney, and there's a pleasing variety between songs, even if ultimately you have to question whether it's all a little inconsequential. I doubt I'll be listening to this in five years' time, but it's an enjoyable side trip with some pleasingly quirky details.
The appeal of Island Fire to me is partly in its 60's feel, and this Brit has a real sense of fun. Much of the album was recorded in Sydney, and there's a pleasing variety between songs, even if ultimately you have to question whether it's all a little inconsequential. I doubt I'll be listening to this in five years' time, but it's an enjoyable side trip with some pleasingly quirky details.
Greg Laswell Landline (Indie Pop) 7/10
Laswell's fifth album won't disappoint fans, being stirring and accessible. The melodies soar, and it's notable for its duets with four guest female vocalists including Sia and Sara Bareilles. It's all terribly enjoyable, and reassuring: I like to be challenged more, but that's a matter of taste, and I there's no doubt that Greg fulfils his intentions admirably.
Laswell's fifth album won't disappoint fans, being stirring and accessible. The melodies soar, and it's notable for its duets with four guest female vocalists including Sia and Sara Bareilles. It's all terribly enjoyable, and reassuring: I like to be challenged more, but that's a matter of taste, and I there's no doubt that Greg fulfils his intentions admirably.
This debut album comes from the seaside town Morecombe, which I can assure you has little in common with the SoCal coast. It has a nostalgic feel, befitting its location, and lots of jangly guitars. Surprisingly, it has an energy and optimism in common with Neon Trees. It's full of upbeat popular appeal, and whilst my taste is for darker, more challenging music, I think there's a chance of The Heartbreaks breaking through. I could certainly see it working at summer festivals where more subtle, delicate sounds can be lost.
He's My Brother, She's My Sister Nobody Dances in This Town (Indie Folk) 8/10
I debated whether to include this album, since I acquired it through Pledge Music and it won't be generally available until later this year. In fact, even the title is unconfirmed, but it will be worth the wait, as this rootsy LA band exudes fun. Some of the material is included on their EP, but it's thrilling to finally hear the siblings' interchange of vocals on their full length. I'm crossing my fingers they'll tour the UK when it's released to the public.
I debated whether to include this album, since I acquired it through Pledge Music and it won't be generally available until later this year. In fact, even the title is unconfirmed, but it will be worth the wait, as this rootsy LA band exudes fun. Some of the material is included on their EP, but it's thrilling to finally hear the siblings' interchange of vocals on their full length. I'm crossing my fingers they'll tour the UK when it's released to the public.
Here We Go Magic A Different Ship (Indie Pop) 7.5/10
A Different Ship's creativity explains why they caught the ear of Radiohead produced Nigel Godrich at Glastonbury 2010, and they share some of the British group's angst. The rhythms can be complex, and it's tightly performed and of course expertly produced. A standout track is Make Up Your Mind, but the slower songs maintain the anxious, disconcerting feel. Definitely worth listening to, but it's fails to make my top 10 because songs such as I Believe in Action are weaker.
A Different Ship's creativity explains why they caught the ear of Radiohead produced Nigel Godrich at Glastonbury 2010, and they share some of the British group's angst. The rhythms can be complex, and it's tightly performed and of course expertly produced. A standout track is Make Up Your Mind, but the slower songs maintain the anxious, disconcerting feel. Definitely worth listening to, but it's fails to make my top 10 because songs such as I Believe in Action are weaker.
Horse Feathers Cynic's New Year (Indie Folk) 6.5/10
This is the Oregon group's fourth album, and its style is consistent with the previous ones. It's tranquil folk, unassuming and so easily overlooked. The charm is in the details, such as the lovely string work (including cello, banjo and guitar) and occasional piano. Justin Ringle's falsetto vocals are sensitive, and the overall mood sombre. This may be too low key for some, but I appreciate its subtle beauty.
Jack White Blunderbuss (Rock) 8.5/10
Such is Blunderbuss' critical and commercial success that it needs little introduction from me. Despite being at no.1 in the US charts, it doesn't pander to popular appeal: it's gritty and challenging, as he sings of suffering for love. The bluesy garage rock takes risks, and is delivered with utter passion and commitment. The only reason it isn't in my top 5 this month is because you've surely already downloaded it, and I'll be amazed if it isn't at or near the top of most critics end of year lists.
Such is Blunderbuss' critical and commercial success that it needs little introduction from me. Despite being at no.1 in the US charts, it doesn't pander to popular appeal: it's gritty and challenging, as he sings of suffering for love. The bluesy garage rock takes risks, and is delivered with utter passion and commitment. The only reason it isn't in my top 5 this month is because you've surely already downloaded it, and I'll be amazed if it isn't at or near the top of most critics end of year lists.
Lower Dens Nootropics (Indie Rock) 7.5/10
This group has been compared to Radiohead, perhaps because of its bleak feel, yet I also detect the influence of fellow Baltimore group Beach House. Like them, the focus is on atmosphere, the creation of a sound world, but one which is more chilling, less bathed in sunlight. Initially, it's easier to admire than adore, but it can engage the emotions and rewards repeated listening.
Magic Wands Aloha Moon (Indie Pop) 7.5/10
Chris and Dexy Valentine produce dreamy Californian pop which has been compared to Metric. What sets it apart from electro pop acts such as Miniature Tigers is the dark undercurrent and variety of style, from shoegaze to a final track with beats reminiscent of Fischerspooner. They deserve wider recognition for this sensual, imaginative music.
This group has been compared to Radiohead, perhaps because of its bleak feel, yet I also detect the influence of fellow Baltimore group Beach House. Like them, the focus is on atmosphere, the creation of a sound world, but one which is more chilling, less bathed in sunlight. Initially, it's easier to admire than adore, but it can engage the emotions and rewards repeated listening.
Chris and Dexy Valentine produce dreamy Californian pop which has been compared to Metric. What sets it apart from electro pop acts such as Miniature Tigers is the dark undercurrent and variety of style, from shoegaze to a final track with beats reminiscent of Fischerspooner. They deserve wider recognition for this sensual, imaginative music.
Mariee Sioux Gift For The End (Indie Folk) 7/10
Gift For The End is an understated, subtle album, influenced by Bonnie Prince Billy, Neil Young and Joni Mitchell, yet decisively modern. Mariee has a delicate voice, and is influenced by a native American mysticism. Some have found it too relaxed, but it rewards your attention across its eight longer than customary tracks, and I find real depth and beauty.
Gift For The End is an understated, subtle album, influenced by Bonnie Prince Billy, Neil Young and Joni Mitchell, yet decisively modern. Mariee has a delicate voice, and is influenced by a native American mysticism. Some have found it too relaxed, but it rewards your attention across its eight longer than customary tracks, and I find real depth and beauty.
Miniature Tigers Mia Pharaoh (Electronic Pop) 6/10
If these tunes from Brooklyn don't get your feet tapping, there's little hope. It's catchy, light electro pop with a strong beat and falsetto vocals soaked in reverb. Listening to this everyday would be little like eating donuts at every meal, but this is made for an evening in a club or a summer drive. I can't avoid mentioning the word kitsch though...
The Mowgli's Sound The Drum (Indie Folk) 6.5/10
This seven piece from California are unashamedly influenced by Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros, and so I expected to fall in love immediately. My initial response was irritation though, finding too much surface fizz and insufficient substance. I've since become more sympathetic, whilst still wondering whether its upbeat melodies and joy are contrived. You'd be silly though to be put off by my mean spirited questioning, since you can name your price on Bandcamp. Incidentally, the name comes from a band member's dog.
This seven piece from California are unashamedly influenced by Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros, and so I expected to fall in love immediately. My initial response was irritation though, finding too much surface fizz and insufficient substance. I've since become more sympathetic, whilst still wondering whether its upbeat melodies and joy are contrived. You'd be silly though to be put off by my mean spirited questioning, since you can name your price on Bandcamp. Incidentally, the name comes from a band member's dog.
Moonface Heartbreaking Bravery (Indie Rock) 7/10
This is a collaboration between Canadian Spencer Krug and the Finnish krautrock quartet Sinai. It has a cinematic, expansive feel, with influences ranging from M83's pop to Explosions in The Sky. It doesn't always hang together coherently, yet my sense of frustration that it didn't reach its promised destination was tempered by my appreciation of the journey. Like the artwork, the lyrics are often dark.
Mount Eerie Clear Moon (Indie Folk, Lo-fi) 8.5/10
This is the first of a pair of records from Phil Elverum to be released this year. It's subtle and atmospheric, recorded on analogue equipment in a church in Washington State. You really need to soak it in an appropriately relaxed frame of mind, in the dark, in one uninterrupted sitting. You'll then appreciate the surprising electronic textures of later tracks like Over Dark Water. The overall tempo is slow, and it reminded me at times in mood of both contemporary and medieval classical music.
This is a collaboration between Canadian Spencer Krug and the Finnish krautrock quartet Sinai. It has a cinematic, expansive feel, with influences ranging from M83's pop to Explosions in The Sky. It doesn't always hang together coherently, yet my sense of frustration that it didn't reach its promised destination was tempered by my appreciation of the journey. Like the artwork, the lyrics are often dark.
This is the first of a pair of records from Phil Elverum to be released this year. It's subtle and atmospheric, recorded on analogue equipment in a church in Washington State. You really need to soak it in an appropriately relaxed frame of mind, in the dark, in one uninterrupted sitting. You'll then appreciate the surprising electronic textures of later tracks like Over Dark Water. The overall tempo is slow, and it reminded me at times in mood of both contemporary and medieval classical music.
Neon Trees Picture Show (Indie Rock) 7.5/10
I'm fortunate to have attended the release show for this album in LA, and Neon Trees are tremendously energetic and engaging live performers. This sophomore album may lack a standout hit to rival Animal, and its second half doesn't the impact of Habits, yet fans of Neon Trees won't feel let down. It's 1980's influenced, upbeat, often catchy and not to be taken too seriously.
New Build Yesterday was Lived and Lost (Electronic Pop) 6/10
Considering this band contains members of Hot Chip and LCD Soundsystem, expectations were high for this release. I missed their recent live appearance in Manchester, but I find a disconcerting mechanical feeling to their debut album. It's synth pop of course, with falsetto vocals, at its best reminding me of a more muted version of Cut Copy. There are subtle layers of sound, and it's all very skilfully crafted, so it may engage you more.
I'm fortunate to have attended the release show for this album in LA, and Neon Trees are tremendously energetic and engaging live performers. This sophomore album may lack a standout hit to rival Animal, and its second half doesn't the impact of Habits, yet fans of Neon Trees won't feel let down. It's 1980's influenced, upbeat, often catchy and not to be taken too seriously.
Considering this band contains members of Hot Chip and LCD Soundsystem, expectations were high for this release. I missed their recent live appearance in Manchester, but I find a disconcerting mechanical feeling to their debut album. It's synth pop of course, with falsetto vocals, at its best reminding me of a more muted version of Cut Copy. There are subtle layers of sound, and it's all very skilfully crafted, so it may engage you more.
Rocky Votolato Television of Saints (Indie Folk) 7/10
Rocky is a singer songwriter from Dallas, and his style is folk rock, with some alt country influences. He has an extensive discography, but Television of Saints is notable for being fan funded. This music is simple, and the production minimalist, but it has a big, warm heart. Objectively, this album may be unexceptional, yet Rocky's heartfelt singing and acoustic guitar playing have given me much pleasure.
Sea of Bees Orangefarben (Folk Rock) 6.5/10
This is Sacramento's Julie Anne Baenziger second album and stands out for its quirkiness. It's a breakup album, and so has a dark side, without being bleak. I like her distinctive voice and layered guitar strumming, and her music is quietly beautiful. In fact, sometimes it's almost too cheerful and accessible, and I wish she'd be less polite, whilst retaining her gift for melody. I'm told she's wonderful live, and when I get the chance to see her, I may appreciate Orangefarben even more.
Rocky is a singer songwriter from Dallas, and his style is folk rock, with some alt country influences. He has an extensive discography, but Television of Saints is notable for being fan funded. This music is simple, and the production minimalist, but it has a big, warm heart. Objectively, this album may be unexceptional, yet Rocky's heartfelt singing and acoustic guitar playing have given me much pleasure.
This is Sacramento's Julie Anne Baenziger second album and stands out for its quirkiness. It's a breakup album, and so has a dark side, without being bleak. I like her distinctive voice and layered guitar strumming, and her music is quietly beautiful. In fact, sometimes it's almost too cheerful and accessible, and I wish she'd be less polite, whilst retaining her gift for melody. I'm told she's wonderful live, and when I get the chance to see her, I may appreciate Orangefarben even more.
Sigur Ros Valtari (Post Rock) 9.5/10
This was one of my most eagerly awaited albums of the year, since it's four years since Jonsi's band released a studio album. It's music to dream to, best appreciated when you're on the edge of consciousness. If there's a heaven, this might accompany your journey there. Valtari is calm and introspective, with similarities to classical music- the rhythm isn't as clearly defined as in most popular music, for example. I adore the deep serenity and lush electronics, but if you dislike the other output from this Icelandic source, you're unlikely to be converted by Valtari. It's devoid of catchy melodies or intelligible lyrics, yet I consider it to be deeply spiritual.
This was one of my most eagerly awaited albums of the year, since it's four years since Jonsi's band released a studio album. It's music to dream to, best appreciated when you're on the edge of consciousness. If there's a heaven, this might accompany your journey there. Valtari is calm and introspective, with similarities to classical music- the rhythm isn't as clearly defined as in most popular music, for example. I adore the deep serenity and lush electronics, but if you dislike the other output from this Icelandic source, you're unlikely to be converted by Valtari. It's devoid of catchy melodies or intelligible lyrics, yet I consider it to be deeply spiritual.
Soundtrack of Our Lives Throw it to the Universe (Indie Rock) 6/10
This is the Swedish band's sixth and possibly last album, and as ever owes a debt to Britpop. It's an extremely easy listen, melodic and friendly on the ear. It's easy to criticise it for its lack of ambition, but they could surely have stretched their fans a little more. My musical focus was a long way from Britpop in the '90s, so I can enjoy it with it with a fresher, more innocent ear than most.
This is the Swedish band's sixth and possibly last album, and as ever owes a debt to Britpop. It's an extremely easy listen, melodic and friendly on the ear. It's easy to criticise it for its lack of ambition, but they could surely have stretched their fans a little more. My musical focus was a long way from Britpop in the '90s, so I can enjoy it with it with a fresher, more innocent ear than most.
Spiritualized Sweet Heart, Sweet Light (Rock) 8/10
This is an album of contrasts between hard rock and more gentle gospel choir and strings. The critical reception has been overwhelming positive, and if I haven't fallen in love yet, I rate it highly. I appreciate the quieter moments such as Too Late most, and Jason Pierce went through 8 months of chemotherapy for liver disease during the making of this album, so the sincerity can't be denied. If it wasn't for this, I'd describe it as self-indulgent (as on the final track), but you have to admire its ambition. Too sprawling to be a masterpiece, but a lushly produced must-listen.
This is an album of contrasts between hard rock and more gentle gospel choir and strings. The critical reception has been overwhelming positive, and if I haven't fallen in love yet, I rate it highly. I appreciate the quieter moments such as Too Late most, and Jason Pierce went through 8 months of chemotherapy for liver disease during the making of this album, so the sincerity can't be denied. If it wasn't for this, I'd describe it as self-indulgent (as on the final track), but you have to admire its ambition. Too sprawling to be a masterpiece, but a lushly produced must-listen.
5 EPs
Evan Voyatas Feel Me (Indie Pop Funk) 6.5/10
This might not be my favourite album of the month, but the viciousness of Pitchfork's demolition work on an artist who's yet to fully establish himself is disturbing. I can imagine this LA multi-instrumentalist working the crowd in a cramped basement, inebriated souls dancing late at night. The synths are from the 80's, the beat is strong, and the influence of R&B is palpable.
This might not be my favourite album of the month, but the viciousness of Pitchfork's demolition work on an artist who's yet to fully establish himself is disturbing. I can imagine this LA multi-instrumentalist working the crowd in a cramped basement, inebriated souls dancing late at night. The synths are from the 80's, the beat is strong, and the influence of R&B is palpable.
Little Red Lung EP (Indie Rock) 8.5/10
This project from LA has an experimental feel, and really does sound original. Zoe Ruth Erwin has a haunting voice, and her instrumentation includes acoustic instruments such as violin. It takes influences from folk and classical music as well as rock, and it has the ability to set off your imagination in rich and unexpected directions. You can stream it (or buy it for $5) on Bandcamp, and if you're at all open minded, you really should explore this.
The Staves The Motherlode (Folk) 7/10
I recently attended The Staves' live show on the day this EP was released, and whilst we wait for a full length, these 3 tracks will help to satisfy their growing fan base. If you haven't discovered them yet, you'll appreciate their 3 part vocal harmony if you like artists such as Laura Marling and First Aid Kit. Whilst the title track is strong, I particularly enjoyed the a capella final number.
Tic Tic Boom! Before the Sun Rises (Electronic Rock) 7.5/10
This is currently a free download from Bandcamp which I discovered via The Owl Mag. The five tracks of electro pop come from LA and are energising and danceable; I'd imagine they'd be much fun live. The tunes are catchy and the electronic beats invigorating: recommended.
This project from LA has an experimental feel, and really does sound original. Zoe Ruth Erwin has a haunting voice, and her instrumentation includes acoustic instruments such as violin. It takes influences from folk and classical music as well as rock, and it has the ability to set off your imagination in rich and unexpected directions. You can stream it (or buy it for $5) on Bandcamp, and if you're at all open minded, you really should explore this.
I recently attended The Staves' live show on the day this EP was released, and whilst we wait for a full length, these 3 tracks will help to satisfy their growing fan base. If you haven't discovered them yet, you'll appreciate their 3 part vocal harmony if you like artists such as Laura Marling and First Aid Kit. Whilst the title track is strong, I particularly enjoyed the a capella final number.
This is currently a free download from Bandcamp which I discovered via The Owl Mag. The five tracks of electro pop come from LA and are energising and danceable; I'd imagine they'd be much fun live. The tunes are catchy and the electronic beats invigorating: recommended.
We Are Augustines iTunes Session (Indie Rock) 8/10
I've been immersing myself in WAA recently, and this recent iTunes session is a useful supplement to their debut album Rise Ye Sunken Ships. Recorded live, it includes a brand new track Ballad of a Patient Man, two covers and four fresh renditions of songs from the album. It's a pity though that they didn't include the title track omitted from the album, which they played recently in Manchester.
10 Near Misses
10 Near Misses
- Ben Howard Every Kingdom
- The Dandy Warhols This Machine
- The Flaming Lips and Heady Fwends
- Garbage Not Your Kind of People
- Jay Brannan Rob Me Blind
- Maps and Atlases Beware and Be Grateful
- M Ward A Wasteland Companion
- Niki and The Dove Instinct
- Oberhofer Time Capsules II
- Ryan Adams iTunes Session
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