Arcade Fire Reflektor (Indie Rock) 9/10
No longer available to stream; here is the iTunes link for previews.
Reflektor has gathered mixed reviews, ranging between rapture and criticism of the 80 minute plus length. It has a dense sound, and it takes time to fully absorb it, but I've on the side of the supporters. Whilst it isn't quite as coherent a vision as the masterly The Suburbs, it's has a cinematic sweep that proves that there's still much life in the album format. Yet, Arcade Fire demand to be seen live, and I'll be reporting on their Blackpool date at the end of November.
Jonathan Wilson Fanfare (Folk Rock) 9/10
Influenced by Laurel Canyon rock, Fanfare is a cosmic record from North Carolina. The sound is rich, encompassing strings, horns, bells and sometimes what sounds like an orchestra. It's been described as revisionist revivalism, and goes far beyond a mere tribute to the past. I especially love the jazz amongst its eclectic influences, and can't wait to see his live show.
Haim Days Are Gone (Indie Rock) 9/10
Some were disappointed that four of the songs on this long awaited release had already seen the light of day on Haim's EP, but in truth this is one of the albums of 2013. Perhaps it doesn't quite capture the improvisational energy of their live performances, but the acclaim for the Californian sisters is fully justified.
Israel Nash Israel Nash's Rain Plans (Indie Folk) 9/10
Israel Nash's voice has been compared to Neil Young's, and the sound recalls Fleetwood Mac and classic 70's rock. The Missouri native is now based in Texas, and the music is redolent of wide open spaces. An album to relax and get lost in, and one I've already have some wonderful times with.
San Fermin self-titled (Indie Rock) 9/10
The product of a classically trained musician, and written in Banff, Canada, this debut album could be described as orchestral pop and will appeal to open minded listeners. The album represents a dialogue between a love struck man and a standoffish woman. At times I'm reminded of The National in the vocal style, and the album has real sweep through its 17 tracks, becoming more adventurous towards the conclusion.
Tunng Turbines (Indie Folk) 9/10
This experimental UK group blend folk and electronics in a gloriously subtle, nuanced way. The tone is sombre, but warm thanks in part to the vocal harmonies. It was recorded in part in Iceland, and it's quirky beauty becomes more affecting with repeated listening.
Julianna Barwick Nepenthe (Electronic) 8.5/10
Recorded in Iceland by Sigur Ros producer Alex Somers, a female backing choir lends an ethereal feel. Reverb around her voice also gives a dreamlike quality, along with creative use of electronics and noise. The subject matter involves bereavement, and the beauty here is heavenly. Incredibly sensitive and moving.
Deep Dark Woods Jubilee (Roots Rock) 8.5/10
The opening track may come as a surprise to followers of this Canadian band, sounding like psychedelic Neil Young. They're at their best in the more rootsy songs like 18th December, when they tell a story, aided by vintage organ. The warm sound is testament to the fact it was recorded in a cabin in Alberta, and the 10 minute closing track gives a flavour of their live jams.
Anna von Hausswolff Ceremony (Indie Classical) 8.5/10
It's an understatement to describe this Swedish album as unusual: it's 10 minutes until Anna sings, during which time there is an instrumental section featuring pipe organ. The atmosphere is largely melancholic, but the lighter third track brings a shift of mood. The vocals can be almost operatic, and this indie album has a close affinity with contemporary classical music. A powerful experience.
Valley Maker Yes I Know I've Loved This World (Indie Folk) 8.5/10
South Carolina's Austin Crane has produced a stripped back album, enhanced by female vocal harmonisation and a spacious recording. It's incredibly beautiful, even spiritual in feel, with lyrics informed by his faith. An album which deserves far wider recognition and which can be streamed in full above.
Janelle Monae The Electric Lady (R&B) 8/10
The Atlanta star has received almost universal acclaim for her second album which almost approaches Arcade Fire's latest in length. It features starry guest appearances and blends pop, R&B, soul and funk in this concept album. It wears its length lightly, and the 70 minutes pass quickly, despite the odd annoying radio DJ interlude. A worthy successor to The ArchAndroid.
No Ceremony/// self-titled (Electronic) 8/10
As befits an album from rainy Manchester, the mood here is downbeat. The electro pop sound owes much to Crystal Castles, and the production is highly accomplished. Some may wish for a greater emotional range, but I love the energy and atmosphere.
The Head & The Heart Let's Be Still (Indie Folk) 8/10
There will be those who consider this sextet from Seattle to be too close to the raucous populism of Mumford and Sons. Yet, the songwriting is stellar, and whilst it's accessible due to the melodies, there's more subtlety than bombast. Some have even found it too laid back, but I appreciate the melancholy and its reflectiveness across its 13 tracks.
Band Of Heathens Sunday Morning Record (Roots Rock) 8/10
The album is not available to stream, but you can of course preview tracks on iTunes.
I love the harmonies on this folk rock record from Austin, which has a relatively relaxed air. There are soul and blues influences in this Americana, and even a touch of the Beatles, but overall it's contemplative and soulful.
Slaid Cleaves Still Fighting the War (Indie Folk) 8/10
The long standing singer songwriter from Washington DC deserves a higher profile; this album was inspired by the disaster of the Iraq War and blue collar life. Americana is of course influential here, and there's also a bluesy feel; recommended.
Sean Taylor Chase the Night (Singer Songwriter 8/10
The bluesy style of British singer songwriter Sean Taylor reminds me of David Ford at times, although his message is even more overtly political. Despite the American influences, this is an album by a Londoner, and the songs River and London root it in his home town. Skilful guitar work, but the moving lyrics are the key to its success.
Lindi Ortega Tin Star (Country) 7.5/10
You can stream the title track here.
You really need to see this Toronto singer live to fully appreciate her magic, and her third album has much continuity with the earlier Cigarettes and Truck Stops. Above all, it's fun, with a classic Nashville feel, and her vocals are extraordinarily agile and powerful.
Midlake Anthiphon (Indie Rock) 7.5/10
Midlake lost its leader Tim Smith last year, and some will feel a hint of blandness has crept in to their fourth album. But there's also a feeling of spontaneity as they jam together with an almost psychedelic feel. Sometimes I wish for more memorable melodies, but I love the free spirit here.
Lucy Ward A Single Flame (Indie Folk) 7.5/10
I wrote about one of Derbyshire folk singer Lucy Ward's live performances in September. The album adds instrumentation including cello, bass, drums and electric guitar, but retains her hard hitting lyrics. This is a powerful statement and a must for lovers of British folk, particularly notable for its songwriting.
Nathaniel Rateliff Falling Faster Than I Can Run (Indie Folk) 7.5/10
Like The Lumineers, Nathaniel comes from Denver, and they share a rootsy sound. I love his rough hewn voice, and his acoustic instrumentation and home studio recording recalls early Bon Iver. Lovers of Americana folk should get much pleasure from this, even if it's far from revolutionary.
Wild Child The Runaround (Indie Folk) 7/10
The Austin group's second album is jaunty, upbeat folk, also clearly indebted to The Lumineers in style. The acoustic instrumentation and vocal duos have much appeal. If there's little new ground broken here, the quieter songs are beautiful.
Moonface Julia with Blue Jeans On 7/10
The solo project of Canadian Spencer Krug, this album is most notable for the wonderful piano playing which echoes his vocal melodies. This stripped down sound is powerful, and highlights his affecting voice. The starkness perhaps reflects the landscape and climate of Finland, where Spencer now lives.
Gungor I Am Mountain (Indie Folk) 7/10
This is an inconsistent and unpredictable album, and not for those allergic to Christian lyrics. Yet, the Sufjan Stevens influences and beautiful melodies will win many over to the husband and wife duo. It's far from straight folk, with use of electronics and even the dreaded autotune. They appear to be a far more dynamic proposition live, as evidenced by their Creation Liturgy album.
Foy Vance Joy of Nothing (Singer Songwriter) 7/10
An Irish spirit is embodied in this album, as it Bruce Springsteen. It's notable for its melodies, and full instrumental sound. Foy is joined by Bonnie Raitt and Ed Sheeran for their guest appearances. Sometimes it feels a little overblown, but many will find it heart warming.
St Lucia When The Night (Electro Pop) 7/10
Jean-Philip Grobler may be based in New York, yet he's from South Africa, and sunshine dominates this upbeat, danceable album. It's undoubtedly indebted to the 1980's, and is more successful than Cut Copy's similarly inspired new release.
Hjaltalin Enter 4 (Post Rock) 7/10
This Icelandic group remind me of Efterklang in their subtle rhythms and airy sounds. If you're expecting the drama of Sigur Ros, you may be disappointed, as it's understated in comparison, and more conventional than their own acclaimed Terminal from 2009. Yet, I appreciate the low key melancholy.
Willis Earl Beal Nobody Knows (Soul) 7/10
The a capella Wavering Lines opens this Chicago born and formerly homeless singer's second album. Thereafter the instrumentation opens up and this blues album is surprisingly varied and spontaneous in feel. Recommended.
Ha Ha Tonka Lessons (Indie Rock) 7/10
The fourth album from the Missouri quartet is direct, upbeat and foot stomping. The music feels almost relentlessly upbeat, but it's balanced by the more nuanced lyrics. At times I wish they'd relax, but the full instrumental timbre provides warmth, and there's no doubting their energy.
Mutual Benefit Love's Crushing Diamond (Baroque Folk) 7/10
This understated, gentle album surprisingly brought praise from Pitchfork, and has beautiful harmonies and subtle instrumentation. Recorded in Austin, it's almost Canadian in its warm hearted spirit.
PAPA Tender Madness (Indie Rock) 6.5/10
At times, this LA duo feels a little insistent and relentless; I wish for more subtlety and less radio friendliness. Yet, the rhythm section drives it forward and the tunes are catchy; music to move you to tears isn't always appropriate, and this will give pleasure.
20 Recommended Albums and EPs
- Active Child Rapor EP
- Agnes Obel Aventine
- AKW Last Lines EP
- Annie Dressner East Twenties EP
- Banks London EP
- Basia Bulat Tall Tall Shadow
- Black Hearted Brother Stars are our Home
- The Cowards Choir Reunion EP
- Cut Copy Free Your Mind
- Darkside Psychic
- Glasser Interiors
- Iko The Lake EP
- Kwes Ilp.
- Lanterns on the Lake Until The Colours Run
- The Naked and Famous In Rolling Waves
- Phosphorescent Muchacho de Lujo (live bonus album)
- The Sadies Internal Sounds
- Sigur Ros iTunes Festival London EP 2013
- Son Lux Lanterns
- The Starry Field Back on the Milks
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